GWM premium MPV enters government fleet evaluation

KUALA LUMPUR: Chinese automaker GWM is testing its locally made WEY G9 Hi4 plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) in a government fleet evaluation program as it expands its localisation efforts in Malaysia. The premium MPV was transferred to the Finance Ministry through a partnership with fleet management firm Spanco Sdn Bhd for a proof of concept (POC) evaluation.

The WEY G9 was received by Public Asset Management Division undersecretary Datuk Alan Abdul Rahim, along with officials from the ministry and Spanco. GWM Malaysia explained that the evaluation will help determine how the locally built WEY G9 and its hybrid technology perform in real-world government fleet operating conditions. This step aligns with GWM's broader strategy of building local assembly, distribution, and after-sales capabilities in Malaysia.

The POC program gives GWM the chance to collect operational feedback on the locally assembled model while showcasing its new-energy vehicle technology in a government fleet setting. The WEY G9 is constructed under the completely knocked-down (CKD) system, reflecting the increasing presence of new energy vehicle (NEV) manufacturing and assembly in Malaysia.

The fleet evaluation also takes place amid ongoing efforts to promote the adoption of electrified vehicles and manufacturers demonstrating the appropriateness of various powertrain technologies for local conditions. The WEY G9 Hi4 is fitted with GWM's Hi4 intelligent hybrid four-wheel-drive system, which integrates an internal combustion engine with electric propulsion and all-wheel-drive capability.

As a plug-in hybrid, the vehicle can run on electric power for shorter trips while still using its conventional powertrain for longer journeys.