KUALA LUMPUR (Sept 28): Sime Darby Motors (SDM) Malaysia, the automotive arm of Sime Darby Bhd has been appointed as distributor for BYD’s electric vehicles (EV) namely BYD’s ATTO 3 and new e6 models.

The distribution agremeent between SDM and BYD marks the latter's EV entry into the Malaysian passenger car market.

SDM managing director Andrew Bashim said the partnership will bring BYD’s expertise to the Malaysian market through a wide range of EV models.

“Our collaboration with BYD is one of the steps SDM is taking towards our aim of becoming a leader in EV. This is also aligned with the Malaysian government’s push towards low carbon mobility.

“In line with our commitment to encourage EV adoption amongst Malaysians, we are pleased to welcome BYD to our stable of world-class brands, enabling us to continue growing our EV pipeline of models,” he said in a statement.

BYD Asia Pacific auto sales division general manager Liu Xueliang said Malaysia is a key market for the company’s expansion as there are vast opportunities for the EV ecosystem to grow and evolve.

“Given its proven track record and well-established presence in the automotive sector in the Asia Pacific region, we look forward to partnering with SDM to serve Malaysia’s growing EV demand,” he said.

Founded in February 1995, BYD has established over 30 industrial parks worldwide and has played a significant role in industries related to electronics, automobiles, new energy and rail transit.

BYD is listed on the Hong Kong and Shenzhen stock exchanges, with revenue and market capitalization each exceeding RMB100 billion.

SDM is involved in the retail, distribution and assembly businesses and has presence in nine markets and territories across the Asia Pacific region. Besides Malaysia, the others are Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Thailand, Taiwan, China, Hong Kong and Macau.

Shares of Sime Darby settled one sen or 0.47% lower at RM2.14, giving the group a market capitalization of RM14.6 billion.