Stellantis and Leapmotor Launch Local EV Assembly in Malaysia, Strengthening ASEAN Electrification Push

[The_Mechanic]

Stellantis and Leapmotor Launch Local EV Assembly in Malaysia, Strengthening ASEAN Electrification Push​

In a move that underscores the growing momentum behind electric mobility in Southeast Asia, Stellantis and Chinese EV manufacturer Leapmotor have begun local assembly operations in Malaysia. The collaboration will see Leapmotor vehicles produced at Stellantis’ plant in Gurun, Kedah, marking a significant milestone for both companies and the region’s electric vehicle (EV) industry.

A New Chapter for EV Manufacturing in Malaysia​

The initiative begins with an initial investment of EUR 5 million (approximately RM24 million) and is part of a broader strategy to localize production and meet the increasing demand for affordable, high-quality EVs in ASEAN markets.

The Gurun facility, already an established automotive hub, has been selected for its strategic location and infrastructure. Production will start with the Leapmotor C10 model, with assembly expected to begin by the end of 2025.

Supporting Regional and National Goals​

This development aligns with several regional and national priorities:

• Stellantis’ "Dare Forward 2030" Strategy: Positions the India & Asia Pacific (IAP) region as a key growth driver.
• Malaysia’s National Automotive Policy (NAP 2030): Encourages local EV production and industrial development.
• ASEAN 2025 Chairmanship: Reinforces Malaysia’s leadership in green technology and mobility.

According to Stellantis ASEAN Managing Director Isaac Yeo, the Gurun plant has undergone upgrades to accommodate EV production. “Leapmotor will be the first electric vehicle to be locally assembled at the plant,” he said, emphasizing Malaysia’s increasing role in the regional EV supply chain.

Technology Transfer and Industrial Growth​

Beyond vehicle production, the collaboration is expected to facilitate:

• Knowledge and technology transfer between Malaysia and China.
• Job creation and local supply chain development.
• Strengthening of Malaysia’s position as a regional manufacturing base for EVs.

Stellantis COO for India & Asia Pacific, Ashwani Muppasani, described the milestone as a turning point in the company’s regional electrification efforts. “This is more than just local assembly. It’s about combining Leapmotor’s innovation with Stellantis’ scale to build a sustainable future in ASEAN,” he said.

Leapmotor’s Regional Expansion Strategy​

Leapmotor’s Malaysian market debut in October 2024, followed by its entry into Thailand, marked the brand’s first steps into Southeast Asia. With local assembly now in place, further regional expansion is expected.

Zhu Jiangming, Leapmotor’s founder and CEO, stated that the initiative will help accelerate the company’s global ambitions. “We look forward to working with Stellantis to transform Malaysia’s automotive landscape and open the Southeast Asian market,” he said.

Leapmotor International CEO Tianshu Xin added that the partnership reflects a shared goal of making high-tech, clean mobility accessible to more people.

What Comes Next​

The first locally assembled models are scheduled for production by the end of 2025. More details on pricing, product specifications, and market rollout will be announced in the months ahead.

This collaboration sets the stage for broader EV adoption across ASEAN, with Malaysia serving as both a manufacturing hub and a testbed for clean mobility solutions in the region.