WTC Automotif (M) Sdn Bhd (WTCA), the official distributor of GAC Motor’s vehicles in Malaysia, will soon have a second locally assembled model in the showrooms. This is the GAC EMKOO SUV and assembly of the model has commenced at Tan Chong Motor Assemblies (TCMA) in Segambut, Kuala Lumpur.
Partners since 2021
The development is a continuation of the partnership between WTCA and GAC International which began in 2021 when WTCA was appointed as the sole and exclusive distributor for GAC vehicles in Malaysia. Starting with models imported in CBU (completely built-up) form, plans were made to assemble some models locally. The first model was the GS3 EMZOOM which began completely knocked down (CKD) local assembly in 2024.
TCMA, which has almost 50 years of experience in vehicle assembly, and WTCA have invested around RM60 million for this project. The EMKOO’s start of production reflects continued progress in localisation efforts and further cements the collaboration between both parties in accelerating high-quality automotive manufacturing in Malaysia.
Start of another chapter
Speaking at the Start of Production ceremony today, Tan Keng Meng, Chief Executive Officer of WTCA, said: “We are proud to advance to the next chapter of our CKD journey with the launch of EMKOO mass production. This milestone highlights our capability to meet global quality standards while assembling vehicles locally. The EMKOO reflects our joint commitment to delivering technologically advanced and design-forward vehicles to Malaysian consumers in a timely and efficient manner.”
“We believe the EMKOO will set a new benchmark in Malaysia’s SUV segment, thanks to its futuristic design, advanced safety features and high-performance engineering. This project continues to demonstrate GAC’s strategic intent to deepen localisation and grow together with our Malaysian partners,” added Ye Shao Jian, Vice General Manager of GAC International.
The EMKOO (shown above) will be officially introduced in the Malaysian market in the third quarter of this year. It is one segment up from the EMZOOM. Specifications have not been revealed yet but the EMKOO has powertrains with 1.5-litre as well as 2-litre engines. Like the EMZOOM, it uses GAC’s Global Platform Modular Architecture (GPMA) and platform.
Besides GAC, WTCA also handles AION, which is also a brand of GAC Motor and focussed on fully electric vehicles.