Tag Archives: DRB-HICOM

DRB-Hicom, Geely sign two MOUs with MIDA, MARii to make AHTV a global NxGV hub

DRB-HICOM Berhad and Zhejiang Geely Holding Group have signed two agreements to develop the Automotive Hi-Tech Valley (AHTV) in Tanjong Malim, Perak, into a global hub for Next Generation Vehicles (NxGV) and Energy Efficient Vehicles (EEV).

The first agreement signed with the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA), will focus on cooperation to attract investments specifically for the development of AHTV, with the aim of fostering growth, capabilities, and competitiveness in the national automotive industry.

The key focus of this cooperation is to encourage the transformation of the local automotive industry and Industry 4.0 to help Malaysia become a leading country for EEVs in ASEAN.

It also aims to transform AHTV into a global automotive hub, focusing on the production of NxGVs, smart manufacturing of high-tech automotive components, and an export base for a comprehensive global supply chain for vehicles and spare parts.

The second agreement made with the Malaysia Automotive, Robotics and IoT Institute (MARii), will concentrate on collaboration in research and development (R&D) and talent development for AHTV.

The scope of cooperation includes building testing and R&D centers for NxGVs, as well as establishing a National Testing and Homologation Centre specifically for EEV testing and autonomous driving.

Additionally, the parties involved have agreed to develop local expertise in critical components such as electric motors, battery management systems, and power distribution units with assistance from Geely Holding.

In the area of talent development, the collaboration will also include developing training programs focusing on NxGV and smart manufacturing, R&D, smart equipment, and production and marketing services supported by partnerships with institutions in China and Malaysia.

This includes establishing national standards for automotive SKM and TVET certification, implementing an automotive apprenticeship program, creating educational modules for high school through university levels, and conducting certification programs for digitalization and Industry 4.0 skills in manufacturing and supply chains.

EON aims to strengthen its position in the local automotive sector

Several decades ago, we primarily knew Edaran Otomobil Nasional Sdn Bhd (EON) as a distributor of Proton brand cars.

However, EON is now more than just that.

In conjunction with EON’s 40th anniversary celebration, media practitioners were invited to join the EON & Media Friends Getaway 2024 and personally hear about EON’s plans to further strengthen its position in the local automotive sector. Here are some interesting points you should know:

1. In addition to Proton, the conglomerate now handles several major automotive brands such as Audi, Mitsubishi, smart, Volkswagen, and the upcoming e.MAS brand.

2. EON also manages several commercial vehicle brands such as Daihatsu and Isuzu.

3. EON also oversees the rental and leasing services of AVIS, including passenger vehicles, chauffeur services, and providing vehicle fleets for the commercial sector. Overall, AVIS has approximately 19 branches throughout Malaysia, with over 4,000 vehicles.

4. EON-Petromin Sdn Bhd was established in 2022 with a focus on providing after-sales and service for various vehicle brands, especially for owners whose warranties have expired. Initially, EON-Petromin is focusing on the Klang Valley area and will be followed by the Northern and Southern regions.

5. To facilitate customers in getting their dream cars, EON, through its financing division, launched the EON Capital digital platform during the previous EON Autofest in March. With the determination to address three main concerns voiced by customers, EON Capital aims to provide a fast and easy vehicle financing application platform, a safe and worthwhile purchasing experience.

6. Alongside the digitization of vehicle financing processes, EON is also emphasizing the digitization of platforms commonly used by customers such as the official website, 3D exhibition center, online vehicle sales outlets, insurance applications, and after-sales services.

7. Moving forward, EON aims to further strengthen its position in the automotive distribution sector with the opening of an exclusive accessories center and a centralized Body & Paint (B&P) center for downstream revenue generation.

8. In the future, EON will also collaborate with used car companies like myTukar, Carsome, and OEM companies, in addition to using the EON website as a platform for trading and buying used vehicles.

9. Enhancing the ownership experience ecosystem with greater value, EON launched the opening of EON Autospa on March 1, 2024. Located in Glenmarie, the Autospa outlet is the first to meet the needs of EON customers from various automotive retail businesses such as Audi, Mitsubishi, Proton, and smart. Through partnerships with several renowned brands, customers can not only receive car wash services but also obtain vehicle accessories such as window films, leather seat covers, paint protection films, and dashboard cameras.

EON opens revamped Proton 3S centre in Banting

EDARAN Otomobil Nasional Berhad (EON), a wholly-owned subsidiary of DRB-HICOM Berhad (DRB-HICOM) has launched its revamped Proton EON 3S centre in Banting, Selangor.

The new centre, which previously only operated as a showroom, has now been upgraded to offer 3S services, namely sales, after-sales service and spare parts replacement.

With a total of RM6 million invested in refurbishment and upgrades, the Proton EON Banting 3S centre offers customers enhanced experience through digital sales and after-sales services within a comfortable and modern enlarged showroom.

The upgraded showroom spans an impressive 18,775 square feet build up area capable of displaying eight units of Proton vehicles.

Complementing the showroom is an advanced service centre covering 12,347 square feet, equipped with 10 service bays featuring state-of-the-art technology for efficient and reliable servicing of various Proton models.

Customers also stand to benefit from EON’s digitalisation push with the introduction of Workforce Management (WFM) platform that enables customers to get appointments for car servicing online and enjoy real-time service updates. Those who are car hunting can even book for new vehicles online via www.eon.com.my.

The showroom is open from 8:30am to 5:30pm Mondays to Saturdays, and 10:00am to 4:00pm Sundays and public holidays. Its service centre operates from 8:30am to 5:30pm Mondays to Fridays, and 8:30am to 1:00pm on Sundays.