WTCA Starts GAC Emkoo CKD Operations Ahead Of Q3 Launch

WTCA marked the Start of Production (SOP) for the upcoming new and localised (CKD) GAC Emkoo model at TCMA Segambut recently.

GAC Motor brand distributors WTC Automotif (M) Sdn Bhd (WTCA) revealed via press release today that it has commenced local assembly (CKD) operations for the GAC Emkoo model at the Tan Chong Motor Assembly (TCMA) plant in Segambut, KL.

WTCA added that the Emkoo CKD model's Start of Production (SOP) was recently officiated at TCMA by WTCA CEO Tan Keng Meng and GAC International Vice General Manager Ye Shao Jian. This was witnessed by other top-tier representatives from their respective firms who were also present.

The GAC Emkoo C-SUV is now the brand's second offering to be localised in Malaysia by WTCA at TCMA after the GAC GS3 Emzoom.

“The Emkoo reflects our joint commitment to delivering technologically advanced and design-forward vehicles to Malaysian consumers in a timely and efficient manner,” expressed Tan.

As a refresher, WTCA first previewed the GAC Emkoo C-SUV offering back in Feb 2024 alongside the GAC GS3 Emzoom  B-SUV and GAC Aion Y Plus EV models. The latter two has since gone on sale, with the GS3 Emzoom also localised (CKD) now by WTCA at TCMA.

Present during the SOP ceremony were representatives from both WTCA and GAC International.

Notably, the Emkoo now stands as the second GAC brand model to be localised (CKD) in Malaysia. WTCA adds that the effort also reinforces its role in driving Malaysia’s automotive localisation ambitions while delivering top-tier quality and innovation.

WTCA is set to officially launch the GAC Emkoo sometime in the third quarter (Q3) of this year (2025). CEO Tan  adds that that the model will bring “a new standard of intelligent design and futuristic styling to the mid-size SUV segment.”

The GAC Emkoo previewed by WTCA back in Feb 2024. The model will enter the rather crowded local C-SUV marketspace.

As reported from its initial preview mentioned, the GAC Emkoo is set to harness a 1.5-litre 4-cyl turbo petrol heart rated at 177 HP and 270 NM. The mill is set to be paired with a 7-speed DCT automatic box and front-wheel-drive (FWD) setup.

With the powertrain, GAC Motor touts an average fuel efficiency rate of 6.8 litres/100 KM. More importantly, the Emkoo is also set to enter the competitive local C-SUV space armed with a slew of advanced driving assistance (ADAS) features.

Are you keen on seeing yet another Sino-badged C-SUV alternative enter our market?

WTCA elected to remain tight-lipped about both specifications and tentative pricing for the GAC Emkoo for now, but we reckon prospects wont have to wait too long for which.

What do you folks reckon then?  Ready for yet another Sino-badged left-field alternative in what is already a rather crowded market segment? Hit the comments below with your take…