Pegoh, Melaka-based EP Manufacturing Bhd (EPMB) has announced that its Peps-JV Melaka subsidiary will begin locally assembling (CKD) the BAIC X55 and BJ40 Plus models in the first quarter of 2025. Does that mean the duo will be CKD from the start instead of CBU first like previously intimated?
Both have actually been open for booking since May, with prices estimated to start from RM129,XXX for the former and RM188,XXX for the latter.
EPMB and BAIC International Development signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) back in August 2023 and then a 10-year contract in April 2024 for the local assembly of the aforementioned models.
The BAIC X55 is a C-segment SUV that is slated to come in Standard and Premium variants. Measuring 4,620 mm long, 1,886 mm wide, 1,680 mm tall and with a 2,735 mm wheelbase, it’ll have a 188 PS/305 Nm 1.5 litre turbocharged inline-four petrol engine and a seven-speed wet dual-clutch gearbox. See our gallery of the unassuming but handsome contender in pre-production form for the low-down.
Meanwhile, those looking for more ruggedness could turn to the body-on-frame BJ40 Plus. This Jeep Wrangler-lookalike is expected to carry a 221 hp/380 Nm 2.0 litre turbocharged engine that’s mated with an eight-speed ZF auto and a Borg-Warner part-time four-wheel drive system with 2H, 2L and 4L modes.
Measuring in at 4,645 mm long, 1,925 mm wide and 1,871 mm tall, with a 2,745 mm-long wheelbase, the BJ40 Plus is expected to come in just one variant, with Wrangler-like features such as a detachable top cover and removable doors – more details in our gallery.
EPMB currently assembles the Haval H6 HEV for Great Wall Motor Malaysia at its RM240 million, 100,000-square feet facility. BAIC is its second client.
BAIC X55 in Malaysia full gallery
BAIC BJ40 Plus in Malaysia full gallery
Looking to sell your car? Sell it with Carro.
BAIC punya lawak kah kah kah
Ckd for what. Make it even worse?
WHO??? lol
can these chinamen come out with something original?
No. Piracy is in their dna. Haha.
How many can afford such vehicles? Must go EV and bring in BYD Seagull. If my memory serves me, it’s around RM 45,000. Not only is Malaysia going green, it’s also affordable to the masses.
BJ40 removable roof maybe susceptible to leak during heavy rain. Like the Jeep.
Lagi baik tukar nama BAIK