Key facts
- BYD selected Inokom Corporation as its local contract assembler in Malaysia.
- BYD abandoned plans for its own manufacturing plant in Tanjung Malim.
- Inokom's facility in Kulim, Kedah, has experience with EV production, assembling Chery Omoda E5 and BMW i5 models.
Chinese electric vehicle maker BYD has appointed Sime Darby's Inokom Corporation as its local assembly partner in Malaysia, a strategic shift after shelving plans to build its own manufacturing plant. The move aims to help BYD bypass taxes and maintain competitiveness in the growing Malaysian EV market. BYD cited Inokom's established automotive manufacturing capabilities, experienced workforce, and existing EV production experience at its Kulim, Kedah facility as key factors in the decision. The company stated that local assembly is crucial to its long-term commitment to Malaysia and will bring its new energy vehicle and battery technologies closer to the local market. BYD has delivered 8,087 units in Malaysia as of September 30, 2026, making it the second most popular EV brand in the country.