GWM to start CKD in Malaysia from 2023; EVs in the pipeline, but Haval H6 and Pao pick-up looms closer

During the launch of the Ora Good Cat today, the ASEAN Region President of Great Wall Motor (GWM), Elliot Zhang shared that the company will be commencing local production (CKD) in Malaysia beginning 2023, and we can expect more cars from them in the near future too.

Zhang mentioned that the introduction of the CKD project will create more than 2,000 jobs. This plant will be run in partnership with GoAuto, and will be maintained at the company’s Gurun, Kedah facility.

He said that “EVs are in the pipeline, but it is likely that SUVs and pick-up trucks will be produced first,” referring to tbe soon-to-be locally-assembled products.

Zhang also shared that GWM are to launch 9 models in 3 years here, with the aim to be Malaysia’s xEV leader, though he was understandably mum about which exact models they are.

These include all manner of bodystyles – from SUVs, sedans, to pick-up trucks. Now you’ll recall that GWM is the umbrella; parents to Ora (EVs only) and Haval, which makes regular, internal-combustion engine (ICE) cars.

Though no models were named, we think the Haval H6 and Haval Jolion hybrids, as well as the GWM Pao are safe bets; considering test units have been caught here multiple times…including a fully uncovered one right outside the Good Cat’s launch venue.

This is a developing story

Source: GWM to start CKD in Malaysia from 2023; EVs in the pipeline, but Haval H6 and Pao pick-up looms closer