Chery Aims To Turn Malaysia Into Its Right Hand Drive Hub

On top of voicing its commitment to investing RM1 billion in the Malaysian automotive industry, Chery Automobile is set to deepen its integration into the local economy with ambitious plans. Part of this plan will include the establishment of a local production facility and introducing research and development centres in the country.

During a recent visit to Malaysia, Zhang Guibing, President of Chery International, confirmed the company's intention to potentially make Malaysia its right-hand drive hub. Zhang noted that while China focuses on left-hand drive vehicles, Malaysia offers a unique opportunity to serve right-hand drive markets.

"We are very interested in expanding our business here, and Malaysia could be our right-hand drive hub," Zhang said during the launch of the Chery Corporate Malaysia plant in Shah Alam, Selangor.

Following that, Chery plans to explore exporting vehicles built in Malaysia to neighbouring right-hand-drive countries, leveraging Malaysia's strategic location and robust automotive ecosystem.

Zhang further emphasised that Chery’s long-term vision includes ensuring that local partners are engaged and content, creating significant job opportunities for Malaysians, and introducing new technologies to the local market.

Minister of Investment, Trade, and Industry Tengku Datuk Seri Utama Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz confirmed this vision, announcing that Chery’s new assembly plant in Shah Alam would create 500 new jobs, with a goal of increasing to at least 1,000. This growth will be further supported by the opening of over 100 showroom and service centres across the country.

Additionally, by partnering with local vendors and suppliers, Chery aims to reduce component costs, effectively challenging the notion that local suppliers cannot meet international standards and cost as stated by Li Shufu, chairman of Geely Holding Group.

Zhang stated that these efforts would strengthen Chery’s operations in Malaysia, ensuring high standards of quality and efficiency, ultimately building lasting customer trust.