Sime Darby Motors Confirms Distribution Deal For BYD EV In Malaysia
Sime Darby Motors, the automotive distribution and retail arm of conglomerate Sime Darby Bhd, has confirmed signing a Distribution Agreement with BYD. This will officially mark the Chinese brand’s entry into Malaysia, particularly for its electric vehicles.
“In line with our commitment to encourage EV adoption amongst Malaysians, we are pleased to welcome BYD to our stable of world-class brands, enabling us to continue growing our EV pipeline of models. BYD is the world’s leading manufacturer of new energy vehicles and this partnership will bring BYD’s expertise to the Malaysian market through a wide range of EV models. Our collaboration with BYD is one of the steps Sime Darby Motors is taking towards our aim of becoming a leader in EV. This is also aligned with the Malaysian government’s push towards low carbon mobility,” said Andrew Basham, Managing Director of Sime Darby Motors.
The Distribution Agreement was signed by Jeffrey Gan, Managing Director of Retail and Distribution of Sime Darby Motors Malaysia, and Eagle Zhao, Managing Director of BYD Malaysia Sdn Bhd and PT. BYD MOTOR INDONESIA. Also present was Liu Xueliang, General Manager of BYD Asia Pacific Auto Sales Division. This agreement will see the 2 BYD EVs i.e. ATTO 3 and new e6 coming to Malaysia.
The ATTO 3, also known as the Yuan Plus, is a 5-seater crossover based on BYD’s latest e-platform 3.0. It has an electric motor that puts out 150 kW (201 hp) and 310 Nm of torque. This is powered by a BYD Blade Battery with lithium iron phosphate in a cell-to-pack (CTP) system (without modules), which is integrated into the vehicle structure.
Meanwhile, the e6 is a 5-seater MPV built on a 2,800 mm wheelbase and has a 580-litre boot. It is powered by an electric motor which produces 70 kW (94 hp) and 180 Nm. The 71.7kWh Blade battery pack allows it to claim a driving distance of 522 km.
“Malaysia is a key market for our expansion, as there are vast opportunities for the EV ecosystem to grow and evolve. Given its proven track record and well-established presence in the automotive sector in the Asia Pacific region, we look forward to partnering with Sime Darby Motors to serve Malaysia’s growing EV demand,” Liu Xueliang commented.
