JAC T9 Pickup Trucks Set for Local Assembly in Kulim

JAC T9 pickup trucks, featuring both battery electric (BEV) and plug-in hybrid (PHEV) powertrains, are slated for local assembly in Kulim, Malaysia, following a new strategic partnership.

The agreement was signed between Evolvelectric Motors, the designated local distributor for JAC pickup trucks, and FT Assembly (FTA), a subsidiary of Feytech Holdings. According to the original publisher, this joint announcement confirms that the facility in Kulim will serve as the production hub for these electrified models. While the specific timeline for the commencement of mass production has not been disclosed, the move marks a significant step in the regional strategy for both JAC and its local partners.

The scope of the partnership encompasses the local assembly of both the BEV and PHEV variants of the T9, catering to the evolving needs of the Malaysian automotive market. By establishing a local assembly line, the companies intend to leverage domestic manufacturing capabilities, though further details regarding production capacity, investment figures, or specific launch dates for the assembled units remain to be clarified by the stakeholders.

For Malaysian consumers and businesses, the decision to assemble these pickups locally could potentially lead to more competitive pricing compared to fully imported units, which are often subject to different tariff structures. As Malaysia continues its transition toward greener logistics and transportation, the availability of electrified pickup trucks provides a viable alternative for SMEs and utility operators who require the ruggedness of a pickup but seek to move away from traditional fossil fuels.

The shift to electric and hybrid pickups may also be particularly relevant for commercial operators facing fluctuating fuel costs. With unsubsidised petrol prices at RM4.57 per litre and diesel currently at RM5.42 per litre as of late September 2026, fleet managers are likely to closely monitor the total cost of ownership for these electric alternatives. For workers in the automotive sector, this move signals a potential boost in high-skilled manufacturing roles in the Kulim region, contributing to the broader goal of maintaining low unemployment rates, which stood at 3.0 percent as of July 2026.

This development aligns with Malaysia’s broader aspirations to become an EV hub within Southeast Asia. The local assembly of pickup trucks is a niche but critical segment of this strategy, as it targets the workhorse vehicle category rather than just luxury passenger EVs. Given that Malaysia’s real GDP growth remains strong at 6.0 percent, there is significant underlying demand for reliable, cost-effective industrial and commercial transport solutions.

Industry observers will likely watch this development to see how JAC’s electrified offerings compete against existing internal combustion engine incumbents. The automotive landscape is currently navigating a period of moderate headline inflation at 1.9 percent, which may influence consumer purchasing power and the speed at which businesses upgrade their fleets. The success of this assembly venture will likely depend on the balance between initial vehicle pricing and the long-term operational savings offered by electric and plug-in hybrid technology.

What remains unconfirmed at this stage is the exact pricing structure for the locally assembled models and the specific technological specifications of the variants destined for the Malaysian market. Prospective buyers and industry analysts are also awaiting further details regarding the local content requirements and whether these vehicles will qualify for specific government incentives aimed at accelerating the adoption of green transport.