Dongfeng is set to expand its presence in Malaysia, with new Singapore-based distributor Volt Auto looking to increase the brand’s traction in the local market through the development of a more focused retail network, improved marketing and a local assembly programme. While products from the Chinese manufacturer are due to expand beyond the current Box, Vigo and 007, with the MHero II, Voyah Dream and 008 expected to be added to the Malaysian model line-up in the coming future, products alone won’t ensure success or growth of the brand. According to Volt Auto founder and CEO Soh Ming, there was a need to improve awareness of the brand. Despite it being a big player in its domestic market, there is very little recognition of it here, something that Soh is hoping to change. While Pekema subsidiary Central Auto Distributors (CADB) will continue on as a strategic partner and retain its existing dealerships, he said Volt will a more prominent role in redeveloping Dongfeng’s presence here. The first step is to expand the brand’s dealership presence, but Soh, who was in town for a media engagement session late last week, said it wasn’t simply about numbers. “While we want to work with people who are committed to us, we want it to be more quality rather than quantity. That is something very essential for us. So it will be a case of prioritising locations rather than the number of dealers in terms of retail growth,” he said. Soh said that another key focus for the brand will be on developing a strong after-sales network. “We are not just here to sell, because I think the journey really starts after a customer has bought a car. We envision to have 70% of the network having after-sales available. So, if there are 10 showrooms, there must be at least seven after-sales centres for these showrooms,” he said. He added that Volt will provide financial assistance to dealerships on this front. “We will assist them to upgrade by supporting them with funding. If dealers are looking to set up a service centre, it will be fully funded by us,” he said. Dongfeng MHero II, Voyah Dream and 008, Soh explained that the need for a stronger after-sales support network was because the planned product scope will extend beyond pure electric offerings. “There are Dongfeng hybrid models in the product pipeline, so that means that we do need more after-sales service centres to be available for customers,” he said. He added that plans for a local assembly programme was also on the cards, and this is aimed to begin later this year, although he did not reveal the identity of the local assembly partner. “Discussions are still ongoing, so we haven’t been given the green light to disclose this information yet in regards to this, but what I can say is that we will have local assembly this year. Once we get the go ahead, we will announce details,” he said. Ultimately, the ambition is to get things to the point where Malaysia becomes the CKD assembly hub for the region. Soh said the ministry of investment, trade and industry’s (MITI) CKD localisation policy was aligned with what the brand wanted to accomplish in Malaysia. “Even before the announcement, a CKD plan has always been the case here for us. and we have plans for Malaysia to export Dongfeng’s products to the region,” he said. GALLERY: Dongfeng MHero II at Auto China 2026 GALLERY: Dongfeng 008 at Auto China 2026 Dongfeng Voyah Dream seven-seater at Auto China 2026 Dongfeng Voyah Dream four-seater at Auto China 2026 Looking to sell your car? Sell it with Carro. AD: Drive the Dongfeng EV of your dreams. Submit your details and Dongfeng Carro (PJ outlet) will get in touch with you. Use the promo code 'PAULTAN' when you checkout for 10% discount!