Dongfeng’s next step in Malaysia is not just a retail expansion. Local assembly now looks like the route it needs to stay relevant once the new EV import rules start to bite.
From July 1, 2026, imported EVs must meet a minimum cost, insurance and freight value of RM200,000, along with a minimum output of 180 kW (245 PS). That makes the CBU route harder for lower-priced Chinese EV brands, especially those built around volume.
Dongfeng currently sells the Box S31, Vigo and 007 in Malaysia, with the models sitting in the RM100,000 to RM200,000 price band. The smaller Box is likely to face the most pressure once the new rules take full effect, although Dongfeng’s earlier plans were already pointing towards localisation.
Local assembly is expected later this year or by early 2027, though Dongfeng has not confirmed which models would be assembled here. Future launches could also include hybrid powertrains, giving the brand some room beyond pure EVs as Malaysia’s policy direction shifts.
Malaysia had already been lined up as the first right-hand-drive market for the Box EV, with local assembly and export part of the longer-term plan.
Central Auto Distributors Bhd and NexV Manufacturing had also signed an MoU to explore local assembly of Dongfeng new energy vehicles at NexV’s plant in Chembong, Rembau, Negri Sembilan.
Central Auto Distributors Bhd is a wholly owned subsidiary of Pekema and serves as the exclusive importer and distributor of Dongfeng passenger cars in Malaysia.
