DRB-Hicom to launch Hybrid cars by 2012

According to Datuk Nik Hamdan Nik Hassan, DRB is currently holding talks with 3 different potentials of which one of them is its current partner to develop the hybrid car and a deal would most likely be finalized next year. he said "Besides the assemble, we want to have our own hybrid car that we can call it HICOM hybrid. It will take 18 to 24 months to have this car to come on stream,"

Currently, DRB-HICOM in its capacity of the major owner of MODENAS (Motorsikal dan Enjin Nasional Sdn Bhd) has been working with Universiti Sains Malaysia and Petronas Research in developing a electric motorcycle set for launch latest by 2011. Nik Hamdan revealed that the hybrid vehicle will surely be more expensive than normal cars but the demand for cars in this segment has been increasing with the rising price of petrol and the more environmentally cautious buyers.

He said “The company targeted to increase its market share to 22 per cent in 2010 from 19 per cent now with the focus on enhancing performance, especially in the after-sales and service activities. The country's total industry volume of vehicles was forecast to reach 540,000 units in 2010 from 525,000 units estimated in 2009. The company planned to launch at least 10 new models and upgrades of its various marques and this expected to spur its automotive business next year. Among them would be the Audi A5 and Audi R8, including two new models from Suzuki,"

On the issue of the DRB-HICOM and GM joint venture which has officially terminated, he said that the difference in business models and directions contributed to the separation. This will come in effect on January 1, 2010 but DRB will still be supplying the spare parts for Chevrolet cars in the country until a new partner is appointed by GM.

 

{mosimage}

{mosimage}

{mosimage}

{mosimage}

{mosimage}

{mosimage}

{mosimage}

{mosimage}

{mosimage}

{mosimage}

{mosimage}