The “Made in Malaysia” tag just got a whole lot more electric. On March 10, 2026, the automotive landscape in Alor Gajah shifted gears as the very first locally assembled MG S5 EV officially rolled off the production line. This isn’t just about a new car; it’s a major win for Malaysia’s green ambitions, marking the official start of local production for MG vehicles through a strategic partnership between SAIC Motor Malaysia and EP Manufacturing Berhad (EPMB).
With the Chief Minister of Melaka, Datuk Seri Utama Ab Rauf bin Yusoh, officiating the ceremony, it’s clear that this sleek electric SUV is set to become a cornerstone of the state’s industrial identity.
What’s New With The CKD MG S5 EV?
If you thought the imported version was impressive, the locally assembled (CKD) MG S5 EV is here to prove that “local” means “better.” MG hasn’t just moved the assembly line; they’ve given the car a serious performance injection. The power output has jumped from 125kW to a punchy 151kW, while torque has been boosted to 350Nm.
Built on a dedicated rear-wheel-drive platform, this EV isn’t just about straight-line speed; it’s designed for balance. Thanks to an ultra-thin battery layout, the car boasts a lower center of gravity and more cabin space, making it as practical for a grocery run as it is fun on a winding road.
The Melaka Milestone: Driving The Local Economy
This launch at the PEPS-JV facility is more than just a ribbon-cutting event; it’s an economic engine. By moving to local assembly, SAIC Motor Malaysia is tightening the country’s automotive supply chain and supporting local vendors. The facility is a high-tech hub capable of handling everything from battery electric vehicles (BEV) to traditional combustion engines, signaling Melaka’s status as a strategic manufacturing powerhouse.
With a production target of up to 2,000 vehicles in 2026, the project is set to create jobs and transfer world-class technology to the local workforce.
Charging Ahead: Safety And Range You Can Count On
Range anxiety? Not here. The MG S5 EV offers a solid driving range of up to 446km (WLTP), which is plenty for a road trip from Melaka to Penang and back. When you do need a top-up, the 150kW DC fast charging can get you from 10% to 80% in about 26 minutes, roughly the time it takes to grab a coffee.
Safety-wise, MG isn’t cutting corners. The vehicle is packed with:
- Seven airbags for maximum protection.
- ADAS 2.5 system, including Traffic Jam Assist and Intelligent Cruise Control.
- Five-star safety ratings from both Euro NCAP and ASEAN NCAP.
For those who want a bit of extra pampering, the LUX variant adds ventilated leatherette seats and a hands-free power tailgate.
Early Bird Perks: Is the MG S5 EV Your Next Ride?
Perhaps the most shocking part of the announcement is the price. The MG S5 EV is entering the market with an estimated MSRP of RM120,000, making it one of the most accessible EVs in Malaysia. To sweeten the deal, MG is offering an “Early Bird” promotion worth RM10,000, which includes a RM7,000 rebate, a free 7kW wallbox charger, and RM1,000 in charging credits.
Peace of mind comes standard, too, with an 8-year/180,000km warranty on the battery pack. Bookings are officially open as of March 10, 2026, so if you’ve been waiting for the right moment to go electric, this might be it.
For more information, visit their official website: mgmalaysia or their Insagram: MGmotorMY.
