Chinese new energy vehicle maker BYD said it will build a completely knocked down (CKD) assembly plant in Malaysia as part of efforts to expand in Southeast Asia, with production expected to begin in 2026.
The announcement came at the launch of the updated BYD Seal in Malaysia on August 22. “Malaysia has always been one of BYD’s most important markets in Southeast Asia, and today’s dual announcement of CKD and the New BYD SEAL marks a new chapter in our journey here,” said Liu Xue Liang, general manager of BYD’s Asia-Pacific auto sales division.
BYD has been expanding its footprint in the region, with production at its Thailand plant starting in July 2024 and a new facility planned in Cambodia. In Malaysia, the updated Seal is offered in Premium and Performance trims, priced from 171,800 Malaysian Ringgit ($40,640) and 191,800 Malaysian Ringgit, respectively, about 8,000 Ringgit less than earlier models.
The Seal was Malaysia’s best-selling electric sedan in 2024, according to Jeffrey Gan, Southeast Asia managing director of Sime Motors, BYD’s local dealer partner. BYD also expanded its retail network in the country, opening a new store on August 22 to bring its total to 43 locations.