MITI stops new pickup truck brands and nameplates coming into Malaysia
We has just been informed by ‘people close to the matter’ that MITI will not be allowing any new pickup truck brand and also nameplate to be launched in Malaysia from immediate effect.
It seems that the Malaysian pickup truck segment is already crowded (why not the SUV and crossover segments?) and existing auto brands can continue to introduce new models BUT there can be NO new nameplate (like the BYD Shark and MG U9).
This means that the recent BYD Shark preview in Malaysia was just before this latest restrction. This will halt their entry into the Malaysian pickup truck segment which is dominated by the Japanese brands and a couple of Chinese brands (like JAC and Foton) as well which have already setup business recently.
Meanwhile, the all-new 2024 Mitsubishi Triton has launched in Malaysia recently and also several new Ford Ranger variants and for 2026 there is a hybrid Toyota Hilux and also JAC T9 PHEV expected to arrive or be introduced in 2026.
The Ministry of International Trade and Industry (MITI) is working on a new incentive mechanism that might affect future electric vehicles, including electric pickups.
Here Are The Recent Launches.
Mitsubishi Triton: The all-new sixth-generation model was officially launched in Malaysia in October 2024, featuring a new 2.4L turbo-diesel engine with up to 204 PS and 470 Nm of torque. It is available in five variants, including a single-cab version, with pricing available on the Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia website.
Isuzu D-Max: Isuzu launched a new D-Max Low-Ride 4×2 MT variant in February 2025, a cost-efficient workhorse model targeted at urban businesses. The general facelifted D-Max range with updated styling was introduced in May 2024.
Ford Ranger: Ford has introduced several limited-edition and high-performance variants in 2024 and 2025. The Ford Ranger WildTrak 3.0L V6 Turbo Diesel was launched in August 2025. A limited-run Ford Ranger Raptor Sport 3.0 V6 petrol variant was launched in November 2025.
New Upcoming PLANNED Launches In 2026
Toyota Hilux: Toyota has unveiled the new ninth-generation Hilux globally in Thailand in November 2025, which includes both internal combustion engine (ICE) and battery electric vehicle (BEV) options. This model is confirmed for selected markets from the 2026 fiscal year onward, and market speculation suggests a Malaysian launch within 6-8 months of its global debut.
GWM Cannon: A plug-in hybrid (PHEV) version of the GWM Cannon Alpha launched in Australia in early 2025, sparking speculation that a Malaysian release might follow. GWM has previously brought initial batches of the standard Cannon Ultra to Malaysia for booking.
BYD Shark: The BYD Shark, a new plug-in hybrid electric (PHEV) pickup truck, was previewed in Malaysia in November 2025, indicating a potential future launch in the local market.
JAC T9 PHEV: The JAC T9 PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle) is coming to Malaysia around Q1 2026, joining the existing diesel and full EV T9 models. It offers powerful performance with a 2.0L turbo-petrol engine and dual electric motors (523 PS and a powerful 1,000 Nm) and it has a possible 100km EV range, targeting a premium lifestyle segment.
The Role of MITI
MITI (Ministry of International Trade and Industry) is actively involved in shaping the automotive landscape, particularly regarding electric vehicles (EVs). The ministry is currently finalising a new Customised Incentive Mechanism to push EV growth and attract investments, which could impact the pricing and viability of future electric pickup trucks in the Malaysian market.
Existing EV duty exemptions have a time limit, which is encouraging manufacturers to launch new EV models quickly.
Meanwhile, in 2024, Malaysia’s pickup truck market experienced a slight dip in total sales, with a 16.3% decrease, dropping from 58,071 units in 2023 to 48,560 units.
This decline reflects broader economic trends, such as rising diesel prices and the diesel subsidy rationalisation. However, key models like the Toyota Hilux, Isuzu D-Max, and Ford Ranger have continued to showcase resilience despite the market contraction.
