BMW Builds First Electric Vehicle in Malaysia

BMW Group Malaysia just made history by assembling its first fully electric vehicle on home soil, signaling a major shift in the country's automotive landscape.

The BMW i5 eDrive40 M Sport Pro went on sale immediately after its launch ceremony in Kuala Lumpur this week. Priced at RM368,800 (about $82,000 USD), the luxury sedan represents years of planning to bring electric vehicle production to Malaysia.

"The local assembly of the all-new BMW i5 signifies how far we have come, from introducing electric mobility to now building it right here on Malaysian soil," said Benjamin Nagel, managing director of BMW Group Malaysia. The company also previewed the BMW iX1, a more affordable electric SUV expected to launch later this quarter at an estimated RM255,000.

BMW's Kulim plant in Kedah state has already proven its regional importance. The facility has exported more than 11,800 vehicles to the Philippines and Thailand, positioning Malaysia as a strategic production hub for Southeast Asia and the broader Asia Pacific region.

The Ripple Effect

Local EV assembly does more than add a product to showroom floors. It accelerates the development of Malaysia's electric vehicle ecosystem, from charging infrastructure to technical training programs. Workers gain valuable skills in next-generation automotive technology, and the supply chain strengthens to support both domestic needs and regional exports.

BMW Group Malaysia delivered 10,800 vehicles in 2025 and expects continued growth in the premium segment this year. While the company hasn't set specific sales targets, the local assembly strategy demonstrates long-term confidence in Malaysia's market and manufacturing capabilities.

The company also launched a limited-edition MINI Countryman to celebrate the Lunar New Year. Only 18 units of the Fiery Stallion Edition will be produced, featuring custom "Fire Horse" design elements inspired by Chinese cultural symbolism.

Malaysia's electric future is taking shape one locally built vehicle at a time.