Stellantis Malaysia has officially started assembling Leapmotor electric vehicles at its Gurun plant in Kedah, marking a clear step forward for the country’s EV rollout. The first model to go into production is the Leapmotor C10 SUV, with the Leapmotor B10 scheduled to follow by the end of 2026.
For Malaysia, this isn’t just another factory update. It’s part of a wider push to build a stronger electric vehicle ecosystem and position the country as a regional production base for EVs Stellantis is leaning into that direction, using Gurun as a key manufacturing site for its ASEAN ambitions.
To get production up to standard for Leapmotor’s EV technology, Stellantis has invested EUR 2.23 million in local assembly development, along with a further EUR 3.1 million in capital expenditure for upgrades at the Gurun facility. The focus is on preparing the plant for more advanced production processes tied to electric vehicle manufacturing.
There’s also a workforce angle here. Technical staff and assembly operators at Gurun have undergone specialist training to handle high-voltage EV systems of up to 800 volts. That certification is part of a wider effort to build local capability as the automotive industry shifts away from combustion engines.
Stellantis says the partnership with Leapmotor is designed to support its regional growth strategy, with Malaysia playing a central role in its APAC plans. The company also points to long-term benefits beyond local demand, with export opportunities from Gurun to other ASEAN markets currently being evaluated.
Quality control is being managed through a shared global framework between Leapmotor and Stellantis, ensuring consistent assembly standards across markets. The local operation has already undergone validation and received approval from both Stellantis teams and relevant regulatory authorities.
Speaking on the development, Isaac Yeo, Managing Director of Stellantis ASEAN, described the start of assembly in Gurun as a key milestone for EV industrialisation in the region. He said the partnership helps accelerate Stellantis’ electrification plans while also making more accessible electric mobility available to consumers.
For now, production is focused on Malaysia, but the longer-term picture is regional. As capacity builds, Gurun could become part of a wider supply network feeding into ASEAN markets.
