The Denza D9 upmarket MPV is currently tipped to serve as its premiere local launch model.
After having been teased during the prior launch of the Seal Dynamic a couple of weeks back, BYD has since officially announced that its premium sub-brand Denza will soon be arriving over here.
This news was announced to the world after BYD Auto Industry Co., Ltd. held an official signing ceremony of the Denza Importation & Distribution Agreement, where Sime Darby Auto Imports Sdn. Bhd. was appointed as the official importer, while BYD Malaysia Sdn. Bhd. as its official distributor in Malaysia.
According to the Chinese automaker, this signing will be the first step for Denza entering into Malaysia. Through this premium off-shoot, BYD aims to provide Malaysians a more diverse, innovative and of course, premium EV experience.
There has thus far been no official word yet on exactly what BYD plans to debut through its Denza sub-brand over here, but the whispers on the grapevine (and local spy shots) strongly suggests for the D9 e-MPV to be among the likeliest launch candidates. This all-electric Alphard alternative is to be available internationally with both all-electric and plug-in hybrid powertrains, though it is all but certain that only the former will be offered locally (at launch at least).
Delving slightly deeper into the specs now, the all-electric D9 can be had with either a sole 313 PS front motor or 374 PS dual-motored configurations. Both of which are then paired to a massive 103 kWh LFP battery, which yields a CLTC-claimed all-electric range of up to 620 km on a single charge.
The imminent local launch of Denza as a brand and its D9 is currently rumoured to be happening some time in the first quarter of next year, which will certainly be rather convenient timing to anyone currently considering the other Chinese luxury e-MPV that just begun taking bookings over here last week. And if one instead desires something a little smaller and more modest meanwhile, BYD itself has incidentally confirmed that its M6 people mover will soon be making its Malaysian debut rather soon too.
Mr. Liu Xueliang, General Manager of Asia-Pacific Auto Sales Division at BYD, shares his thoughts regarding the imminent arrival of Denza over here by stating, “We are excited to partner with Sime Darby Auto Imports to bring Denza to the Malaysian market, marking a significant milestone for BYD in our journey to expand our electric vehicle offerings in Southeast Asia. Being at the forefront of innovation, we are proud to bring our advanced EV technology to Malaysia where the appetite for sustainable mobility continues to grow. With Denza, we will be able to offer our customers a better experience through our premium technology and features within the EV industry. We believe Denza will redefine the premium EV experience and set new standards for Malaysian drivers.”
Mr. Dennis Ho, Managing Director, Assembly and Strategic Businesses at Sime Darby Motors, meanwhile added: “This official signing marks a momentous milestone for us as we venture into a new partnership with BYD Auto Industry and BYD Malaysia. Through this, we look forward to forge a stronger partnership with BYD, expanding our presence in the EV market while diversifying Sime Darby’s EV portfolio. We are committed to a pivotal role in accelerating the growth of electric vehicles in Malaysia and we believe that bringing in Denza will be a significant part of this journey.”
Mr. Eagle Zhao, Managing Director of BYD Malaysia Sdn. Bhd., finally highlighted the brand’s commitment to enhancing Malaysia’s EV landscape. “BYD’s mission has always been to make electric vehicles accessible to more people, and with the introduction of Denza, we are offering Malaysian drivers a premium choice that embodies both luxury and sustainability. The rapid adoption of EVs in Malaysia is a testament to the country’s progress in embracing a cleaner, greener future. We are proud to play a part in this transformation, expanding our diverse offerings and innovative solutions that meet the needs of a new segment of drivers,” he said.
