Great Wall Motor’s (GWM) WEY G9, a Hi4 plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV), is Malaysia’s first locally assembled Chinese luxury new energy multi-purpose vehicle (MPV).
It is produced at a completely knocked down (CKD) facility in Melaka.
GWM Malaysia chief operating officer Roslan Abdullah said the vehicles are validated and tested based on Malaysian road, weather and traffic conditions.
“We are able to provide parts faster and have stronger service readiness through local supply chains.
“There will be shorter feedback loops between the plant, dealers and technical teams. This enables continuous quality improvement and a better after-sales experience,” he said at the launch in February.
GWM WEY G9 is priced at RM269,800.
GWM WEY G9 key specifications and performance metrics
- Dimensions: 5,050mm long, 1,985mm wide and 1,900mm tall
- Wheelbase: 3,085mm
- Kerb weight: 2,803kg
- Wheels and tyres: 18-inch alloy wheels (245/50 R18 tyres)
- Safety: 6 airbags, 360-degree camera, Level 2 Advanced Driver Assistance Systems
- Colour options: Nebula Black, Wisdom Grey and Aurora White
- Powertrain: 1.5L inline 4-cylinder turbocharged plug-in hybrid engine
- Electric motor: Permanent-magnet synchronous motor (front and rear)
- System modes: Power modes include EV, EV Priority, Intelligent HEV, while driving modes include Eco, Normal, Sport, Snow and AWD
- Combined max power: 442PS (325kW)
- Combined max torque: 642Nm
- Battery type: Ternary lithium battery
- Battery capacity: 44.2kWh
- 0 to 100 km/h acceleration: 5.7 seconds
- Driving range: Electric driving range 170km (NEDC), combined driving range 1,000km (NEDC)
- Charging time: 26 minutes for DC charging (60kW) from 30% to 80%, or 6.5 hours for AC charging (6.6kW) from 15% to 100%
- Fuel tank capacity: 58L
Why is GWM WEY G9 suitable for Malaysian consumers?
Roslan said the GWM WEY G9, a Hi4 plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV), embodied the product’s tagline "First Class for All".
“It is perfect for long trips, rain and uneven roads, making it a perfect option for families,” he said.
He added Malaysian consumers are increasingly open to electric vehicle options but still value long-range practicality.
“The PHEV technology bridges electric convenience and petrol flexibility, fitting current charging realities.
“The G9’s long EV range and Hi4 capability match everyday commuting as well as long holiday trips. This alignment helps accelerate broader new energy vehicle acceptance in Malaysia,” he noted.
GWM chief engineer of high-voltage systems Dr Hu Xin added that GWM WEY G9 reduces speed ratios on highways so the engine runs in its optimal low energy consumption range.
She said the Hi4 PHEV system in the Wey G9 is designed to eliminate the usual compromises between electric efficiency and long-distance usability.
“It offers up to 170km of pure electric driving for quiet and efficient daily commuting, while providing a total driving range of more than 1,000km for longer journeys.
“Even when battery levels are low, fuel consumption remains efficient at 6.2 litres per 100km, supported by intelligent energy management and seamless switching between Series and Parallel Hybrid modes.
“This ensures predictable efficiency in real-world Malaysian driving conditions,” Hu said.
How does this launch support Malaysia’s automotive goals?
Roslan said the GWM CKD programme is fully aligned with Malaysia’s industrial aspirations outlined in the National Automotive Policy 2020 (NAP 2020), which encourages the development of local automotive ecosystems and the transfer of advanced technologies.
“Through this technology transfer, we are able to manufacture vehicles that meet the same production standards achieved in China,” he said.
Roslan added that the WEY G9 marked a significant milestone in the brand’s new energy push in Malaysia.
"GWM is committed to establishing long-term roots in this country.
“The WEY G9 reflects GWM’s long-term commitment to Malaysia as a strategic manufacturing and regional export hub for Asean,” he said.
