SAIC Motor Malaysia has officially begun local production of the MG S5 EV, marking a major milestone for the brand’s expansion in Malaysia. The first locally assembled unit rolled off the production line at the PEPS-JV Assembly Facility, signalling the start of domestic manufacturing for MG vehicles in the country. The ceremony was attended by several government and industry representatives, including Ab Rauf Yusoh, Chief Minister of Melaka, alongside state officials and executives from the automotive sector.
Localisation Strategy Strengthens Malaysia’s EV Ecosystem
The start of production represents the next stage of SAIC Motor Malaysia’s localisation strategy following its partnership announcement in October 2025 with EP Manufacturing Berhad. According to Emory Qi, Managing Director of SAIC Motor Malaysia, the first line-off of the locally assembled MG S5 EV CKD model reflects the company’s long-term commitment to the Malaysian market.
He noted that local assembly enables the company to bring vehicles closer to customers while strengthening the domestic automotive supply chain and supporting local vendors. The collaboration also aims to expand Malaysia’s electric vehicle ecosystem while contributing to the growth of the country’s automotive vendor network.
Enhanced Performance For Locally Assembled Model
The locally assembled CKD version of the MG S5 EV introduces several improvements compared to the earlier imported CBU model. Built on MG’s rear-wheel-drive electric platform, the vehicle now delivers 151kW of power, an increase from 125kW in the imported variant. Torque has also been improved to 350Nm, providing stronger acceleration and enhanced driving dynamics.
The electric SUV supports ultra-fast DC charging of up to 150kW, allowing the battery to charge from 10 percent to 80 percent in approximately 26 minutes under optimal conditions. The model also features a horizontal ultra-thin battery layout that lowers the vehicle’s centre of gravity while improving cabin space and driving stability.
Premium Features and Extended Driving Range
The MG S5 EV LUX variant introduces additional comfort and convenience features, including leatherette seats, ventilated front seats and a power-adjustable front passenger seat. It also includes a hands-free power tailgate for improved practicality. With a driving range of up to 446km based on the WLTP standard, the electric SUV is designed to support both daily commuting and longer-distance travel.
Safety Technologies and Global Crash Ratings
Safety remains a major focus for the MG S5 EV, with the vehicle equipped with seven airbags and the brand’s ADAS 2.5 advanced driver assistance system. The suite includes features such as Traffic Jam Assist and Intelligent Cruise Control.
The model has also achieved five-star safety ratings from both Euro NCAP and ASEAN NCAP, highlighting MG’s commitment to global safety standards. To support EV ownership, the vehicle comes with an eight-year or 180000km battery pack warranty, along with an eight-year or 160000km warranty covering the motor control unit.
Melaka Facility To Support Regional Growth
The Pegoh assembly facility is capable of producing battery electric vehicles, hybrid electric vehicles and internal combustion engine models. The plant is expected to play a key role in MG’s regional growth strategy in Southeast Asia. Production capacity for the MG S5 EV is projected to reach between 120 and 180 units per month, translating to an estimated annual output of around 1500 to 2000 vehicles in 2026. According to EP Manufacturing Berhad executive chairman Hamidon Abdullah, the partnership supports the advancement of Malaysia’s automotive industry through localisation and innovation.
Bookings Open With Early Bird Promotion
Bookings for the MG S5 EV opened on 10 March 2026, with an estimated MSRP of RM120000. Final pricing will be announced during the vehicle’s official launch in the coming weeks. To celebrate the start of local production, MG Motor Malaysia is offering an Early Bird promotion valued at up to RM10000. The package includes a RM7000 rebate, a 7kW wallbox charger worth RM2000 and RM1000 in charging credits.
The locally assembled MG S5 EV is positioned as one of the more accessible electric vehicles in its segment while contributing to Malaysia’s growing EV manufacturing ecosystem. Stay tuned for more trending tech news at TechNave.com.
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