WTC Automotif (M) Sdn Bhd (WTCA), a 100% owned subsidiary of Warisan TC Holdings Bhd,has officially opened the order books for the GAC GS3 EMZOOM compact Sports Utility Vehicle (SUV). This will be available by the 2nd quarter of 2024 with a booking fee of RM1,000 and the first 100 bookings will be invited for a private event. The announcement was made during the Exclusive Preview event which also featured upcoming GAC and GAC AION, which are GAC's brand for electric vehicle models.
The GAC GS3 EMZOOM compact SUV is available in two variants, Exclusive and Premium-R. The GAC GS3 EMZOOM is estimated to be priced below RM130,000 and will be made available in four attractive limited-edition colour options – Ivory White, Starlight Silver, Lake Blue and Graphene Grey. This makes the good looking, almost C segment sized GS3 EMZOOM competitively or even lower in price than the category competitors like the Proton X70, Chery Omoda and even the Honda HRV.
Those interested can get an exclusive preview of the car at GAC’s upcoming roving activation event at Klang Valley from 2nd to 8th February 2024. Take a look and follow GAC Motor Malaysia's social media pages for latest updates. At the same time, WTCA also stated that the CKD version is expected to roll off the production line in Q2 2024 at the Tan Chong Motor Assemblies plant (TCMA) in Segambut, Kuala Lumpur. So expect the first cars to be seen during that period and if you are interested in buying a SUV in that RM120-140K category, you actually have another option with this GAC here.
“Today marks a significant milestone in our journey and partnership with GAC Motor and GAC AION, and we are eager to offer our guests an insight and preview of the GAC line up, including the impressive all-new GAC GS3 EMZOOM compact SUV and further showcase 2 upcoming models that WTCA will be introducing to the Malaysian market later this year. This special preview event is the culmination of our commitment and hard work, and we invite you to join us in this exciting journey of discovering the beauty of the GAC vehicles,” said Warisan TC Holdings Chief Executive Officer, Tan Keng Meng at the event.
Tan also stated that the first showroom is set to open in Petaling Jaya by end of February, 2024, followed by five more strategically showrooms located in Glenmarie, Cyberjaya, Seremban, Johor Bahru and Penang by the first half of 2024.
“We aimed to establish over 20 showrooms and service centres nationwide by the end of this year,” Tan added.
The AC GS3 EMZOOM is very much in line with the latest offerings from Chinese manufacturers. The SUV, which GAC sells as the Trumpchi GS3 in ChIna, features very cutting edge styling. It has modern lines and will stand out against other cars of the same nature. Compared to the previous generation GS3, the EMZOOM second generation version you see here is more distinctive looking and very conservatively styled looks. This new one is more of a looker than the 'normal' looking previous generation model.
This second generation GS3 has more characterful design elements, including the what GAC calls its Mecha Wing Grille, Laser Eye Split LED lights, and Light Dart tail lights, as well as featuring lots of triangle motifs which blends into a futuristic look with high-visibility lighting to add to the drama. The Rear Spoiler at the top of the boot, and a small ducktail-style spoiler in the middle at the lights seamlessly molded into the bodywork, makes this look sporty and a little bit more exotic like some luxury coupe (even though it isn't). From the Electric Hidden Door Handles to the Crystal Shift Gear Selector, every detail exudes sophistication, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal of this remarkable vehicle.
The GS3 EMZOOM is powered by GAC's 3rd Generation 1.5T GDI engine which has a mid-mounted exhaust for even more wow-factor looks to add to what it makes in terms of power output. The engine produces 177PS @5500rpm and 270Nm @ 1,400rpm. It has a fuel consumption rating of 5.9l/100km. All decent figures for a 1.5liter turbocharged engine that should make this compact SUV a sprightly drive. The SUV features a 7 speed DCT transmission powering the front wheels.
The interior of the GS3 EMZOOM seems well equipped. It features a dual-tone interior which is modern looking with its large infotainment and driver's instrument cluster screens. Its modern and spacious cabin provides an all-rounded, comfy space for both driver and passengers. The interior, a hallmark of premium and luxury, infuses a modern touch, offering advanced technology at your fingertips. All controls seem nice to the touch in the preview unit.
WTCA states that the GAC GS3 EMZOOM is not just a high-performance SUV but that is represents the future of driving with its intelligent cabin design, offering a harmonious blend of speed, power, style, space, and smart functionality.
All for under RM130k. So WTCA is pushing for that low price and the car's good looks. I actually cannot fault the car's styling if it is made to look young, sporty and contemporary with all of it's angles and character lines.
The upcoming larger sized model - GAC EMKOO
Aside from previewing the upcoming GS3 EMZOOM, WTCA also showcased the ultra-modern GAC EMKOO (branded as the Trumpchi EMKOO in China). This larger (full C segment) sized SUV features a Borderless V-Shape Grille . Complementing this are the pair of “Eyes of Revelation” LED Headlamps for an easily recognisable front end. A uniquely designed rear tail lights add a futuristic touch, creating a luminous spectacle as the vehicle moves. The sharp body belt line, resembling an arrow ready to shoot, adds a dynamic and sporty flair, continuing through the skirt line. Overall, the exterior of the EMKOO is very modern, and should favour those who like cutting edge styling in their SUVs. It has even more character lines and is even more distinctively styled when compared with the smaller EMZOOM. These cars are indeed styled to attract attention.
The interior of the GAC EMKOO is as modern. It has what GAC call a truly Digital Interior that elevates the driving experience. Featuring a fully digital instrument cluster with a semi-floating appearance, it embodies modernity and innovation. The interior features a classy look overall and like the smaller GS3, also feels premium in terms of looks and when you touch the surfaces.
“GAC EMKOO is another exhilarating addition to our lineup, representing the next phase of our commitment to delivering diverse and high-quality vehicles to meet the evolving needs of Malaysian consumers. Stay tuned for more details about this avant-garde vehicle as we approach the launch date.” added Mr Tan.
The EMKOO is a larger SUV and the preview unit is powered by the same 1.5liter turbocharged engine and as the EMZOOM. There are also two other powertrains - the 2.0liter turbo as well as a 2.0 turbo with a hybrid motor. But from what I believe, a single powertrain, the 1.5liter turbocharged engine, is the one for all GAC sold in Malaysia as it allows volume in terms of parts interchangeability and the ease of assembly at the Segambut plant.
The GAC AION Y PLUS Battery Electric Vehicle is also previewed
This EV is powered by GAC AION’s proprietary Magazine battery. According to WTCA, this is the world’s first Magazine Battery Safety Technology with no incidents of ignition or explosion, possibly making it the safest battery technology in the world at the moment. So this could be the EV you'd like to park in your porch, parking lot or garage at home or at the office.
The Magazine Battery has a capacity of 63.2kWH with a maximum output of 150kW, GAC AION Y PLUS is expected to have a travel range of 490km (NEDC) or 430km (WLTP). Slightly above industry standard numbers for this segment of EV in my opinion.
WTCA had stated that GAC AION made a large investment of around RM2 billion and had dedicated 30 months to developing the GAC AION Electric Platform (AEP2.0). This is a cutting-edge system tailored exclusively for electric vehicles (EVs). This platform boasts an extended body, featuring the widest wheelbase in its segment at 2750mm, and a spacious full flat floor for rear passengers. What sets the GAC AION Y PLUS apart is the front seats’ unique ability to recline fully, transforming into a generous 1.8-meter-wide double bed – a class-defining feature. Rear passengers are treated to unparalleled comfort with the industry’s most generous legroom, measuring up to 1,022 mm. When viewing the car, you really can appreciate the space it has inside and out.
We have to wait and see when WTCA launches these in Malaysia.
WTCA and GAC AION
WTCA signed the GAC AION Distribution Agreement in January 2024, officially designating WTCA as Malaysia’s sole and exclusive distributor of GAC AION vehicles. This strategic move represents a significant step for WTCA towards the future of sustainable mobility.
“GAC AION represents the future of electric mobility, and WTCA is honoured to be entrusted as the sole and exclusive distributor in Malaysia. This collaboration underscores our dedication to providing the Malaysian market with innovative and eco-friendly mobility solutions,” expressed Tan.
Tan highlighted, GAC AION Y PLUS represents a pivotal step in WTCA’s dedication to offering a solution to the Economic, Environmental, Social, and Governance (EESG) principles.
WTCA remains steadfast in its commitment to meet customers’ diverse needs by delivering the latest innovative product range from GAC and GAC AION and complimenting with more efficient service quality.
Tan concluded, “With GAC Motors offering Energy Efficient Vehicles (EEV) and GAC AION aligning with the electric vehicle trend. Together, we are shaping a brighter future.”
For more information, please visit www.gacmotor.com.my and follow GAC Motor Malaysia on
https://www.facebook.com/GAC-Motor-Malaysia-104304102124544
GAC GS3 EMZOOM
GAC EMKOO
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