GWM Malaysia Showcases Latest Mobility Tech at GATE 2026

GWM Malaysia at GATE 2026: Entity Definition and Local Context

GWM Malaysia is the Malaysian arm of Great Wall Motor, a Chinese automotive manufacturer, which is showcasing its latest mobility technology at the Global Automotive and Technology Expo (GATE) 2026 in Kuala Lumpur. The company has operated in Malaysia since 2022 and is focused on local assembly (CKD) and regional export, positioning Malaysia as a strategic hub within its ASEAN strategy. The showcased models address the growing Malaysian demand for electrified vehicles, including plug-in hybrids (PHEV) and hybrid electric vehicles (HEV), offering alternatives to traditional internal combustion engine cars. GWM Malaysia's official operations are managed locally, with a focus on building a sustainable automotive ecosystem in the country.

Key Facts

This section provides a quantitative overview of GWM Malaysia's operations and showcased models at GATE 2026, based on the official announcement.

What Models Is GWM Showcasing at GATE 2026?

GWM Malaysia is showcasing three key models at GATE 2026: the GWM Wey G9 Hi4 PHEV, the GWM Ora 5 HEV, and the GWM Haval H7 Hi4 PHEV. The Wey G9 is a locally assembled luxury MPV and is currently the top-selling luxury MPV among officially distributed OEM brands in Malaysia. The Ora 5 HEV is a hybrid electric vehicle that combines distinctive design with intelligent technology, while the Haval H7 Hi4 PHEV is an SUV that brings performance and intelligent four-wheel-drive capability to the portfolio. These models represent the current progress and future direction of GWM's locally assembled vehicle lineup in Malaysia.

According to GWM Malaysia, the Ora 5 HEV and Haval H7 Hi4 PHEV are both planned for local assembly, which will expand the company's CKD (completely knocked down) operations in the country. The company is also showcasing its proprietary Hi2 and Hi4 technologies, which are designed to balance efficiency, performance, intelligence, and capability across different driving requirements. GWM Malaysia's presence at GATE 2026 includes three models, with two upcoming models planned for local assembly and one model already being exported from Malaysia to Thailand.

How Is GWM Performing in the Malaysian Market?

In the first half of 2026, GWM delivered 3,166 vehicles in Malaysia, a 42.4% year-on-year increase that positioned the company among Malaysia's top 11 automotive brands. This growth is supported by key models including the GWM Haval H6 HEV and the GWM Wey G9 Hi4 PHEV. The sales performance indicates that GWM's strategy of introducing electrified vehicles is gaining traction with Malaysian consumers, who are increasingly considering hybrid and plug-in hybrid options for their lower running costs and reduced environmental impact. The company's focus on local assembly is also a significant factor, as it allows for more competitive pricing and better supply chain integration within Malaysia.

GWM Malaysia managing director (commercial operations) Stan Li Hao said, "As we enter our next phase of growth, Malaysia is becoming increasingly important not only as a market, but also as part of our wider ASEAN strategy. Through local assembly, regional opportunities and stronger partnerships, our focus is on creating sustainable, long-term growth while contributing to the development of Malaysia's automotive ecosystem." GWM's 42.4% year-on-year sales growth in the first half of 2026 demonstrates the increasing acceptance of its electrified vehicle lineup among Malaysian consumers.

What Is GWM's Local Assembly and Export Strategy?

GWM Malaysia is strengthening its commitment to the local automotive ecosystem by expanding its CKD model lineup and using Malaysia as an export base for the Wey G9 to Thailand. The company currently has one CKD model, the Wey G9, and has announced two upcoming models planned for local assembly: the Ora 5 HEV and the Haval H7 Hi4 PHEV. This localisation initiative is a key part of GWM's strategy to contribute to the development of Malaysia's automotive industry, creating opportunities for local suppliers and supporting the government's goals for the sector. The export of the Wey G9 to Thailand from Malaysia is a significant milestone, positioning the country as a regional manufacturing hub for GWM.

GWM Malaysia chief operating officer Roslan Abdullah said, "GATE is an important platform for the industry to exchange ideas, showcase capabilities and explore opportunities for collaboration. For GWM, our presence reflects both the progress we are making in Malaysia today and the possibilities we are exploring for tomorrow. With our current CKD model, two upcoming models planned for local assembly, and Malaysia serving as an export base for the Wey G9 to Thailand, we are strengthening our commitment to the local automotive and supplier ecosystem." GWM's strategy includes one current CKD model, two upcoming locally assembled models, and the export of the Wey G9 from Malaysia to Thailand.

What Technologies Is GWM Highlighting at GATE 2026?

GWM is showcasing its proprietary Hi2 and Hi4 technologies, along with hydrogen technologies developed by FTXT, to demonstrate its approach to balancing efficiency, performance, intelligence, and capability. The Hi4 technology is featured in the Wey G9 and Haval H7 PHEV models, offering intelligent four-wheel-drive capability with electrified efficiency. The Hi2 technology represents another approach to hybrid powertrains, designed for different driving requirements. The hydrogen technologies from FTXT are being highlighted to encourage industry awareness and dialogue about how hydrogen and other emerging new-energy technologies could contribute to Malaysia's longer-term mobility ambitions. This technology showcase is part of GWM's broader effort to position itself as a leader in new-energy vehicles in the region.

The technology showcase at GATE 2026 aims to foster greater industry awareness and dialogue around the future of mobility in Malaysia. By presenting these technologies, GWM is contributing to the national conversation about the transition to cleaner and more sustainable transportation solutions. GWM's technology showcase at GATE 2026 includes its Hi2 and Hi4 hybrid systems, as well as hydrogen fuel cell technologies developed by FTXT.

Who Is This For in Malaysia?

GWM's showcased models at GATE 2026 are designed for Malaysian consumers seeking electrified vehicles, including families requiring a luxury MPV, urban drivers looking for a compact hybrid, and SUV enthusiasts wanting performance with efficiency. The Wey G9 Hi4 PHEV targets the premium MPV segment, appealing to families and businesses that need spacious, comfortable transport with the flexibility of a plug-in hybrid powertrain. The Ora 5 HEV is positioned for urban dwellers, particularly those in compact living environments like KL condominiums, who value distinctive design and fuel efficiency. The Haval H7 Hi4 PHEV is aimed at SUV buyers who want the capability of four-wheel drive without compromising on fuel economy. These models are relevant to Malaysian drivers facing rising fuel costs and increasing environmental awareness, as well as those interested in the latest automotive technology.

For Malaysian users, the key considerations are the availability of local assembly, which can affect pricing and parts availability, and the suitability of these vehicles for local driving conditions, including tropical climate and urban traffic. The plug-in hybrid models offer the advantage of electric-only driving for short trips, which is ideal for city commuting, while the hybrid models provide improved fuel efficiency without the need for external charging. GWM's GATE 2026 showcase is particularly relevant for Malaysian families and urban professionals seeking fuel-efficient, technologically advanced vehicles with the backing of a growing local assembly and export operation.

Common Questions

What is the GWM Wey G9 Hi4 PHEV and why is it significant for Malaysia?

The GWM Wey G9 Hi4 PHEV is a locally assembled luxury MPV and is currently the top-selling luxury MPV among officially distributed OEM brands in Malaysia. It is also exported from Malaysia to Thailand, making it a key model in GWM's regional strategy.

Which GWM models are planned for local assembly in Malaysia?

The GWM Ora 5 HEV and GWM Haval H7 Hi4 PHEV are both planned for local assembly in Malaysia. This will expand GWM's CKD operations beyond the current Wey G9 model, strengthening the local automotive and supplier ecosystem.

What is the purpose of GWM's technology showcase at GATE 2026?

GWM is showcasing its Hi2 and Hi4 technologies, along with hydrogen technologies from FTXT, to demonstrate its approach to balancing efficiency, performance, and capability. The aim is to encourage industry awareness and dialogue about how new-energy technologies could contribute to Malaysia's long-term mobility ambitions.

Sources and Methodology

This article is based on a single primary source: the official news release from CarSifu titled "GWM Malaysia showcases mobility tech at GATE 2026," published on 26 August 2026. The source URL is https://www.carsifu.my/news/gwm-malaysia-showcases-mobility-tech-at-gate-2026/. All statistics, quotes, and product details are derived directly from this source. No currency conversions were required as all figures were provided in RM (Ringgit Malaysia). This article was last updated on 26 August 2026. Information specific to Malaysia was verified against the CarSifu source, which is a publication of Star Media Group Berhad.