A locally-assembled GAC GS3 Emzoom makes history, becoming the first LHD model to be exported from Malaysia to Vietnam.
WTC Automotif (M) Sdn Bhd (WTCA), the official distributor and assembler of GAC vehicles in Malaysia, has officially marked a historic milestone in the local automotive landscape. The company has commenced its very first export of locally assembled, Left-Hand Drive (LHD) GAC GS3 EMZOOM units to Vietnam.
The successful roll-off of this first left-hand drive model was witnessed firsthand at the plant by the President of GAC Group, Mr. Xia Xianqing. This achievement marks a pivotal step in GAC’s localized expansion strategy and strongly highlights Malaysia’s growing capabilities in driving intra-ASEAN trade cooperation and industrial integration.
Positioning Malaysia as a Strategic Regional Automotive Hub
The successful line-off ceremony highlights a shared, long-term vision between WTCA and GAC International to transform Malaysia into a primary manufacturing and export hub for the entire ASEAN territory. By establishing a sustainable, cross-border export channel, the project directly supports Malaysia’s National Automotive Policy (NAP) to strengthen regional industrial collaboration and optimize regional supply chain ecosystems.
“The export of the locally assembled left-hand drive GAC GS3 EMZOOM to Vietnam is a proud achievement for WTCA,” said James Tan, Chief Executive Officer of Warisan TC Holdings Bhd. “It demonstrates the proven experience of Tan Chong Group’s local assembly capabilities as a full CKD plant which includes painting facilities to produce the highest quality of Malaysian-made vehicles.”
Upgraded Local Production Capabilities and Vendor Empowerment
The export-spec GS3 EMZOOM units are built at the specialized Tan Chong Group Segambut assembly plant, which has undergone targeted technical upgrades to meet international export requirements. To safely accommodate a left-hand drive layout on the line, specific high-precision body jigs were enhanced to guarantee strict compliance with GAC Motor’s Global Production & Quality Standards.
Beyond manufacturing upgrades, the export engine leverages a deep localization initiative. By engaging closely with local Malaysian component vendors, the program actively injects value into the domestic automotive ecosystem—fostering high-skilled engineering expertise, boosting local employment, and opening a gateway for Malaysian suppliers to participate directly in regional export markets.
GAC GS3 EMZOOM: Performance and Tech Specifications
The Vietnamese-market GAC GS3 EMZOOM retains the same dynamic engineering and high-end feature set that defined its identity.
- Powertrain & Mechanicals: Driven by a robust 1.5-litre Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) turbocharged engine that generates 177 PS of power and 270 Nm of torque. This performance is sent to the wheels via a rapid, highly efficient 7-speed Wet Dual Clutch Transmission (7WDCT).
- Smart Cockpit Technology: Equipped with an advanced, dual-screen digital cockpit architecture paired with a immersive 360-degree camera system for tight urban environments.
- Premium Comforts: Features a large panoramic sunroof to elevate interior cabin space and ambient light.
- Safety & Autonomy: Packed with a comprehensive suite of Level 2 Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) and a Full Automatic Parking Assist (FAPA) system to offer maximum safety and convenience for Vietnamese drivers.
A Sustainable, Long-Term ASEAN Export Roadmap
The initial shipment of locally assembled GS3 EMZOOM CKD units is scheduled to depart Malaysian shores beginning June 2026, kicking off a highly structured, regular export routine to Vietnam. This strategy is designed to solidly scale up the GAC brand presence in emerging left-hand drive ASEAN markets.
Looking ahead, the partnership between WTCA and GAC International is moving quickly into the next phase of development. Aligned directly with the Malaysian Government’s green mobility goals, both companies are actively developing New Energy Vehicle (NEV) CKD models tailored for both domestic showrooms and expanding regional export networks.
To learn more about the GAC lineup or to find localized model specs, drivers can head to the official web hub at www.gacmotor.com.my or track real-time updates via GAC Motor Malaysia’s official Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok channels.
