Audi starts assembling flagship Q7 in Malaysia, first Audi model to be produced in Southeast Asia
KUALA LUMPUR: Audi has started local production of flagship SUV, the Q7 in Malaysia today, making it the first Audi model in this premium luxury segment to be assembled in Southeast Asia.
The seven-seater mild hybrid eclectic vehicle (MHEV) is the first Audi model to be produced at the Volkswagen Group Malaysia assembly plant in Pekan, Pahang.
The plant is also the only Audi production facility in and for the Southeast Asian region.
It assembles Volkswagen models for the Malaysian market, together with DRB-HICOM Bhd as its contract manufacturing partner.
"This manufacturing plant and its transformation with a moderni:ed and updated product portfolio is really a centre of excellence.
"Customers will continue to experience the same Audi quality, performance and luxury, now made in Malaysia," said Volkswagen Group Malaysia managing director (MD) Dr Susanne Lehmann.
The plant in Pekan is expected to also roll out other Audi models in the future, at a capacity of 5,000 units per annum.
An initial investment of over RM12 million has been committed towards realising the vision, strengthening the brand's presence in the premium luxury segment in Malaysia.
The company said the move to localise production comes amid growing demand for luxury vehicles in Malaysia, driven by rising disposable incomes, urbanisation and a shift in consumer preferences toward premium mobility solutions.
PHS Automotive Malaysia MD Denyu Bostandzhiev said the assembly of some of the brand's top-of-the-line vehicles here offers customers competitive pricing and shorter delivery times.
"With growing demand for D-segment SUVs, we believe that this is the right time to add the Q7 to our range of Audi models to serve customers here and in the region.
"The signature Q7 will lead the way for more line-ups in the premium luxury segment," added Denyu.
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