BAIC, one of China’s leading automakers with cumulative vehicle sales of 36 million units, is set to make its mark in the Malaysian market. As part of its strategic initiatives in Southeast Asia, BAIC plans to establish a comprehensive nationwide sales and service network.
Mr. Chen Wei, Vice General Manager of Beijing Automotive Group Co. Ltd & Chairman of BAIC MOTOR Corporation. Ltd, unveiled BAIC’s first two passenger vehicle models for the Malaysian market – the X55 and BJ40 Plus, at an event in Subang Jaya, Selangor, where he emphasised:
“Southeast Asia, particularly Malaysia, represents a thriving automotive market with growing demand for quality, new energy, and intelligent vehicles — areas where BAIC excels. With Malaysia’s mature automotive production system and increasing consumer interest, we are strategically pioneering new frontiers. BAIC is committed to expanding our presence and establishing a robust sales and service network to offer diversified and high-quality choices to Malaysian consumers.”
In line with its commitment to the Malaysian market, BAIC aims to open 10 dealer outlets across the country in 2024, with the first to be operated by EOE (EDARAN OTOMOBIL ELEKTRIK (M) SDN BHD).
BAIC will showcase the X55 and BJ40 Plus at BAIC Showroom, Wisma Consplant 2, Subang Jaya, Selangor, from May 17 to 19, providing the Malaysian public with an exclusive first look at the vehicles.
While the vehicles have been specifically tailored to meet Malaysian preferences, BAIC welcomes any feedback from the public for future developments.
X55 Introduction
The X55 is a sleek and stylish C-segment compact SUV, measuring 4620 mm in length, 1886 mm in width, and 1680 mm in height. It features a self-developed 1.5TD, 4-cylinder petrol engine with VGT technology, paired with a self-developed 7-speed DCT gearbox. This combination delivers an impressive 188 PS and 305 Nm of torque, making it a leader in its class. The X55’s powertrain has been recognized with the Top 10 Powertrain Award in China, boasting a WLTC fuel consumption of just 7.18 L/100 km, offering both power and efficiency.
Constructed with 62.3% high-strength steel and 8.7% hot-formed steel, the X55 provides superior protection. With features such as 21872 Nm of torsional stiffness, advanced crumple zones, and Euro-standard integrated stamped doors reinforced with dual internal steel beams, the X55 has earned double 5-star safety ratings from C-NCAP and C-IASI. The cabin environment is designed with lower levels of benzene and formaldehyde, a 99.9% antibacterial rate trim, and multiple radars and ADAS functions, ensuring the highest level of safety for all occupants.
BJ40 Plus Introduction
The BJ40 Plus is a rugged off-road vehicle with iconic styling, including a signature five-hole grille. Built for extreme terrains, it boasts a 60% climbing grade, a 37° approach angle, a 31° departure angle, and a 23° ramp angle. Under the hood, the BJ40 Plus features a turbocharged 2.0L gasoline engine paired with a German-developed ZF 8-speed automatic gearbox, delivering an exhilarating 224 PS and 380 Nm of torque.
Engineered specifically for off-road adventures, the BJ40 Plus includes a BorgWarner part-time 4WD system and a classic body-on-frame structure. Luxury features include a frontal double wishbone suspension with coil spring, a rear live axle with 5-link suspension, a superior brake system tuned by Mitsubishi, and Bosch 9.1 ESP. The roll-cage-frame design ensures unmatched maneuverability, comfort, and stability.
Additionally, the BJ40 Plus offers an innovative structure that allows for quick disassembly and reassembly of the front and rear roofs, along with a flip-open windshield. These features enable various transformation combinations to meet diverse off-road demands, providing an unparalleled driving experience.
