Stellantis is accelerating Malaysia’s transition to electric mobility by introducing Leapmotor, a new all-electric brand under its portfolio. With support from the Ministry of Investment, Trade, and Industry (MITI), Stellantis launched the Leapmotor C10 in Malaysia, marking the brand’s debut in Southeast Asia. This move underscores the company’s commitment to bringing cutting-edge multi-energy vehicles, including new energy vehicles (NEVs), to Malaysia and the region.
The launch was officiated by Yang Berhormat Senator Tengku Datuk Seri Utama Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz, Minister of Investment, Trade, and Industry.
Leapmotor’s global expansion is backed by a Stellantis-led joint venture called Leapmotor International, where Stellantis holds a 51% stake. This partnership grants Stellantis exclusive rights to manufacture, export, and sell Leapmotor products outside China. Following its recent European launch, Malaysia is the second market to introduce Leapmotor.
YB Senator Tengku Zafrul noted that this collaboration aligns with Malaysia’s automotive goals, which focus on innovation, sustainability, and competitiveness under the National Automotive Policy and New Industrial Master Plan. He emphasized that introducing the Leapmotor C10 strengthens Malaysia’s regional and global position within the automotive industry.
The Malaysian EV market is rapidly growing, with 6,117 battery-electric vehicles (BEVs) sold in the first half of 2024, a 112% increase compared to the same period last year, according to data from the Malaysian Automotive Association (MAA). This rise in sales reflects the growing demand for electric vehicles among Malaysian consumers.
The Minister also highlighted key initiatives, such as the National Automotive Policy 2020 (NAP 2020) and the New Industrial Master Plan 2030 (NIMP 2030), as critical in positioning Malaysia as a hub for next-generation vehicles (NxGVs). These policies aim to boost EV adoption while attracting global automotive investments in local manufacturing, R&D, and talent development.
Stellantis further announced plans to locally assemble its multi-energy vehicles at the Stellantis Gurun facility in Kedah. This plant will serve markets across the ASEAN region and contribute to local supply chains, job creation, and talent development.
Formed in 2021 from the merger of Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) and PSA Group, Stellantis manages iconic brands like Fiat, Chrysler, Peugeot, Jeep, and Alfa Romeo. In 2021, the company acquired full ownership of the Gurun plant, positioning it as its ASEAN manufacturing hub. Stellantis also established its India and Asia Pacific Regional HQ in Kuala Lumpur.
In March 2024, Stellantis launched its National Sales Company (NSC) in Malaysia, which oversees marketing, sales, and after-sales services for the country.
