Before the 1980s, there were no vehicle-carriers like what you see today as the volumes were still small, so investments in such vehicles was not justified then. New vehicles from the ports or assembly plants were driven to stockyards and showrooms. As the drivers would sometimes speed or have accidents, this method of delivery was not necessarily good, especially for brand new cars.
In time, as volumes grew, the logistics industry began to offer transport services to companies to deliver their vehicles safely. Companies like DRB-HICOM Berhad, which has subsidiaries involved in marketing different brands, found it worthwhile to invest in their own fleet of vehicle-carriers and set up a logistics company which is called DRB-HICOM Auto Solutions Sdn. Bhd. (DHAS).
Increased capacity of more than 50%
Recently, DHAS expanded its vehicle carrier fleet from 3 units to 10 units. Each vehicle-carrier uses a MAN prime mover with a 10-litre engine and is able to transport up to 7 sedans or 5 SUVs. With these additional vehicles, DHAS now has a total carrying capacity that is more than 50% compared to before. Additionally, with the Modenas brand in the DRB-HICOM Group, DHAS also has 2 motorcycle carriers as part of its fleet.
Full transportation cycle
Fawzi Ahmad, CEO of DHAS, said the fleet expansion enables DHAS to shift focus from only inbound activities to more outbound delivery services to dealers’ doorstep throughout the transportation cycle.
“DHAS continues to expand operations and meet the rising demand for vehicle transportation services. These additional vehicle carriers also help us enhance cost management and improve our operational control. These efficiency improvements ultimately benefit our customers in various ways,” Encik Fawzi said.
“With the new carriers, DHAS reduces reliance on out-sourced providers. We are now better able to provide a wider range of in-house services, giving us better control in ensuring the best of service to our customers,” Encik Fawzi said, adding that the expanded fleet, which is now in use, positions DHAS to serve the rapid growth of the Malaysian automotive market, particularly with respect to EVs.
Meeting evolving, growing customer needs
DHAS, established in 2006, is currently focused on further strengthening market presence, while driving innovation within its operations. As part of its long-term strategy, the company continuously assesses future requirements, adapting operations to ensure sustainable growth and alignment with customer needs.
As a subsidiary of DRB-HICOM Berhad, enhancements in DHAS’ capabilities feed directly into the Group’s deep-rooted presence throughout the entire automotive industry ecosystem, which ranges from car manufacturing and assembly, vehicle importation and logistics, distribution and retailing, after-sales service, to second-hand sales as well as car rental and leasing services.
In addition to nationwide vehicle distribution, DHAS offers a full suite of logistics services including the importation of CBU vehicles and CKD kits, forwarding and customs clearance, warehouse management, and Pre-Delivery Inspection activities.
