Stellantis Shifts Focus to Leapmotor in Malaysia with Plans for Local Assembly
2025/08/14
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Paul Tan
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Chery Fengyun X3 Series to Launch on August 16 with Multiple Powertrain Options
Chery's new compact SUV, the Fengyun X3 series, will be officially launched on August 16, including the Fengyun X3, Fengyun X3L, and Fengyun X3 PLUS. The vehicles feature a boxy design with a closed grille to highlight their new energy identity, complemented by vertical headlights and a rugged lower bumper. The tailgate is side-opening with vertical taillights. The interior is designed with a robust look, featuring a full LCD instrument cluster, a 15.6-inch floating center console screen, and a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8155 chip. Powertrain options include single-motor two-wheel drive and dual-motor four-wheel drive models, with an electric motor offering a maximum power of 185 kW and a maximum torque of 285 Nm. The batteries are supplied by Guoxuan High-Tech and use lithium iron phosphate. The Fengyun X3L is larger in size and offers both single-motor and dual-motor four-wheel drive models, with a 1.5T engine as the range extender, offering a maximum power of 115 kW. The pure electric range comes in three versions: 90 km, 145 km, and 150 km.
Stellantis Shifts Focus from Peugeot to Leapmotor in Malaysia
Stellantis is shifting its strategic focus in Malaysia from Peugeot to Leapmotor to better meet the rapidly changing market demands. In late 2021, Stellantis acquired full ownership of Naza Automotive Manufacturing and its plant in Gurun, Kedah, with plans to expand its footprint through localization. In late 2023, Stellantis took over the sales and distribution of Peugeot vehicles in Malaysia. However, due to Peugeot's current product lineup not meeting the market's demand for high-value offerings, Stellantis decided to introduce Leapmotor. In 2024, Stellantis and Leapmotor formed a joint venture, Leapmotor International, with Stellantis holding 51%. Leapmotor's products, which are positioned in the high-volume, value-for-money segments, complement Peugeot's offerings. Stellantis plans to invest five million euros in the Gurun plant to prepare it for semi-knocked down (SKD) production of the Leapmotor C10 electric SUV, which is set to begin by the end of this year. This move aims to leverage Leapmotor's high-value products to compete with the strong presence of Chinese brands in Malaysia.
Hongqi H5 Xuan Ying 2 Million Commemorative Edition Launched, Priced from 172,800 RMB
The Hongqi H5 Xuan Ying 2 Million Commemorative Edition has officially launched with two models priced at 172,800 RMB and 192,800 RMB. The new models feature sporty exterior and interior enhancements, including 18-inch wheels with red calipers, blackened keys, and carbon fiber interior trim. The powertrain remains unchanged, offering 1.5T and 2.0T engines with maximum powers of 124kW and 165kW, paired with a 7-speed wet dual-clutch transmission and an 8-speed automatic transmission. The vehicle dimensions remain the same at 4988/1875/1470mm.
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Jaecoo J5 EV Launched in the UK as Jaecoo E5
The Jaecoo J5 EV has been launched in the UK as the Jaecoo E5, with Pure (£27,505) and Luxury (£30,505) variants available. Deliveries will start in October. The B-segment SUV features a 207 PS/287 Nm front motor and a 61.1 kWh LFP battery, offering 400 km of range and a 0-100 km/h time of 7.7 seconds. It includes vehicle-to-load (V2L) functionality, approach and departure angles of 20 and 30 degrees, Pet Mode, and a 480-litre boot (expandable to 1,180 litres). The Pure variant comes with a 12.3-inch portrait touchscreen, a 540-degree camera, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, six Sony speakers, and 19 ADAS functions. The Luxury variant adds a panoramic sunroof, wireless charging pad, heated/ventilated front seats, ambient lighting, and two more Sony speakers. The exterior is similar to the Jaecoo J5 but without a grille, and the interior is also similar, though the version seen at the 2025 Bangkok International Motor Show had bright upholstery. The J5 is expected to come to Malaysia.
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BYD's Yangwang Unveils Lineup for Chengdu Motor Show, Featuring Multiple Highlights
Yangwang has unveiled its lineup for the Chengdu Motor Show, with the Yangwang U8L making its public debut. Priced at 1.3 million RMB, the U8L features a length of 5400mm and a wheelbase of 3250mm, equipped with 24K gold logos and 23-inch forged wheels. The interior includes optional 24K gold logos on the steering wheel, zero-gravity seats in the second row, and a ceiling-mounted entertainment screen. The vehicle also features the Tian Shen intelligent driving assistance system, along with the Yi Si Fang and Yunyan-P technologies. Additionally, the Yangwang U9 with carbon fiber kits will be on display, with options including front spoilers, bucket seats, and wheels priced between 28,000 and 118,000 RMB. The show will also feature demonstrations of the Yangwang U7's lateral parking, Yunyan-X with VR technology, Yunyan-Z chassis appraisal, as well as off-site experiences of the U7's negative side tilt and the U8's emergency flotation and off-road capabilities.
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2025 Audi Q7 Launched in Malaysia as First Locally Assembled Model
The 2025 Audi Q7 S line 3.0 TFSI quattro was launched in Malaysia in May as the first locally assembled (CKD) model from Audi in the country and Southeast Asia. Priced at RM462,422 (OTR without insurance) with a standard two-year unlimited mileage warranty, it offers a 3.0-litre turbocharged V6 engine with 340 PS and 500 Nm of torque, paired with a 48-volt mild hybrid system. The vehicle accelerates from 0-100 km/h in 5.6 seconds and has a top speed of 250 km/h. It features the S line package with sporty design elements and a black styling package. Inside, it offers a 12.3-inch virtual cockpit, a 10.1-inch infotainment screen, and an 8.6-inch control display. The Q7 seats seven in a 2-2-3 configuration and offers up to 1,908 litres of luggage space. It comes with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist. Available in Waitomo Blue, Daytona Grey, Mythos Black, and Glacier White.