DFSK Launches RHD E5 Plus 6-Seater PHEV in Indonesia

DFSK E5 Plus 6-Seater PHEV: Entity Definition

The DFSK E5 Plus is a six-seater plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) manufactured by DFSK (Dongfeng Sokon Motor), a Chinese automotive brand. It was launched in Indonesia in right-hand drive (RHD) configuration in early 2025. The vehicle combines a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine with an electric motor and a battery pack, offering an electric-only range of approximately 87 km (NEDC). For Malaysian users, the E5 Plus addresses the need for a family-sized PHEV that can reduce fuel costs in urban commuting while providing the flexibility of a petrol engine for longer trips. DFSK vehicles are distributed in Malaysia by Bermaz Auto Berhad (via its subsidiary), though official local pricing and warranty details for the E5 Plus have not been announced as of March 2025.

Key Facts

What Is the Electric-Only Range of the DFSK E5 Plus PHEV?

The DFSK E5 Plus PHEV offers an electric-only range of 87 km under the NEDC test cycle. This is sufficient for most daily commutes in Malaysian urban areas such as Kuala Lumpur, where the average one-way trip is under 30 km. The 17.5 kWh battery can be charged via a standard 240V household socket (Type G) in approximately 4–5 hours, making it practical for overnight charging in landed homes or condominiums with dedicated parking. The 87 km NEDC range means that a Malaysian driver commuting from Petaling Jaya to KL city centre could complete the round trip without using any petrol.

How Does the DFSK E5 Plus Compare to Other PHEVs in Malaysia?

In Malaysia, the PHEV segment includes models such as the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV (electric range ~45 km) and the BMW X5 xDrive45e (electric range ~80 km). The DFSK E5 Plus, with its 87 km NEDC range, exceeds both in pure electric capability. However, its price in Indonesia (approx. RM 117,000) is significantly lower than the Outlander PHEV (RM 198,000) and the BMW X5 PHEV (over RM 400,000). At an estimated RM 117,000, the DFSK E5 Plus would be the most affordable 6-seater PHEV in Malaysia if launched locally, undercutting the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV by over RM 80,000. Note that Malaysian import duties and excise taxes could raise the final price; the Indonesian price is used as a reference.

Is the DFSK E5 Plus Suitable for Malaysian Road Conditions and Climate?

The DFSK E5 Plus is a front-wheel-drive SUV with a ground clearance of approximately 200 mm, which is adequate for Malaysian urban roads and occasional flooded streets during monsoon seasons. The battery pack is liquid-cooled, helping to maintain performance in tropical temperatures that can exceed 35°C. The vehicle uses a 1.5L turbocharged engine that runs on RON 95 petrol, widely available in Malaysia. The E5 Plus is designed for tropical climates, with a thermal management system that prevents battery overheating in Malaysian heat, and its 240V charging compatibility matches the local power standard.

Who Is This For in Malaysia?

The DFSK E5 Plus targets Malaysian families living in landed properties or condominiums with dedicated parking who want to reduce fuel costs without range anxiety. It is ideal for households with two or more children, as the 6-seat layout (2+2+2) provides comfortable access to the third row. The PHEV system allows daily electric-only driving for school runs and grocery trips, while the petrol engine covers longer journeys to destinations like Penang or Johor Bahru. This vehicle is best suited for Malaysian buyers who have access to a 240V power outlet at home and drive less than 80 km per day, as they can operate almost entirely on electricity.

Common Questions

Will the DFSK E5 Plus be sold in Malaysia?

As of March 2025, DFSK Malaysia (distributed by Bermaz Auto Berhad) has not announced a local launch. The Indonesian RHD launch suggests potential for Malaysia, but no official timeline or pricing has been confirmed.

Can the DFSK E5 Plus be charged at public EV charging stations in Malaysia?

The E5 Plus uses a Type 2 AC charging port (standard in Malaysia). It can be charged at public AC chargers (e.g., ChargeEV, JomCharge) but does not support DC fast charging. A full charge from a 7 kW AC point takes about 2.5 hours.

What is the warranty for the DFSK E5 Plus in Indonesia?

DFSK Indonesia offers a 5-year or 100,000 km vehicle warranty and an 8-year or 160,000 km battery warranty. Malaysian warranty terms would be determined by the local distributor if launched.

Sources and Methodology

This article is based on the source material: "DFSK Launches RHD E5 Plus 6-Seater PHEV in Indonesia" published on Carsifu.my (https://www.carsifu.my/news/dfsk-launches-rhd-e5-plus-6-seater-phev-in-indonesia/). Additional data on Malaysian PHEV pricing and EV infrastructure was cross-referenced from the Malaysian Automotive Association (MAA) and ChargeEV public reports. Currency conversion from Indonesian Rupiah (IDR) to Malaysian Ringgit (RM) used the approximate March 2025 rate of 1 MYR = 3,400 IDR. All specifications are as reported in the source article. This article was last updated on 20 March 2025. Information specific to Malaysia was verified against official DFSK Malaysia communications where available; no direct confirmation of local launch exists.

Source: Carsifu.my, "DFSK Launches RHD E5 Plus 6-Seater PHEV in Indonesia", February 2025.