SGMW Showcases Intelligent Manufacturing, New Energy Innovations At 22nd ASEAN Expo

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 25 (Bernama) -- SAIC-GM-Wuling (SGMW) concluded its participation at the 22nd ASEAN Expo by unveiling its Intelligent Island Manufacturing System (I²MS), New Energy Technology Matrix, and Starlight 730 Right-Hand Drive (RHD) version under the theme of “Wuling Going Global with New Quality”.

“We are committed to serving local users with the best global technologies. This year’s expo not only marks a shift in China’s automotive industry from exporting products to exporting technology and standards but also opens a new chapter in green and intelligent mobility in the ASEAN region,” said a company representative in a statement.

SGMW highlighted its globally pioneering I²MS, which breaks away from traditional assembly line paradigms. The system’s flexible “static + dynamic” island design increases manufacturing efficiency by 30 per cent, reduces unit costs by 31 per cent, and achieves full lifecycle traceability of product data.

Also featured was the Guangxi New Energy Vehicle Laboratory, developed with eight academicians and over 90 partner institutions. The lab operates under an innovation model of “R&D in Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou + integration in Guangxi + application in ASEAN”, driving forward six technology brands, including SGMW’s Magic Battery.

The company also highlighted its Wonder Flexible Modular System, featuring a five-star safety-rated body structure made of 85 per cent high-strength steel and aluminium alloys and 22.5 per cent hot-formed steel. This is paired with the Magic Battery’s signature five “zero” safety features, including validations such as resistance to fire even under live gunfire.

SGMW officially announced that its next-generation multi-purpose vehicle (MPV), the Starlight 730 RHD version, will enter the Indonesian market in the fourth quarter of 2025 under the name Cortez Darion. Equipped with dual powertrain options, electric sliding doors, and a 2,910-millimetre (mm) wheelbase, the model aims to set a new benchmark for Chinese independent brands expanding overseas.

As part of its ASEAN market expansion, SGMW also confirmed that the Bingo EV—its flagship electric model—will officially launch in Malaysia at the end of 2025. In partnership with Tan Chong Moto Group, SGMW aims to offer consumers more personalised, practical, and cost-effective electric vehicle options.

Looking ahead, SGMW plans to further leverage its Wonder Flexible Modular System, Ling Power, and Magic Battery technology platforms to strengthen its technological capabilities and contribute to the development of the ASEAN new energy industry.

-- BERNAMA