Batang Kali:EP Manufacturing Bhd (EPMB) has partnered with Hebei Shichang Auto Parts Co Ltd, a Beijing-listed fuel systems company, to establish a RM100 million manufacturing facility. This facility will focus on producing advanced fuel tanks for Proton.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the joint venture aims to support Proton's expansion and enhance Malaysia's component supply chain for the automotive sector, aligning with the nation's goal to become a leading regional hub for automotive production and exports.

The newly established entity, EP Shichang Automotive Systems Sdn Bhd, will manage the joint venture, with EPMB holding a 51% stake and Hebei Shichang 49%. Initially, the partners will develop a plastic fuel tank production facility in Batang Kali, Selangor, capable of producing up to 200,000 fuel tanks annually.

Once the facility is completed, it is expected to begin supplying fuel tanks to Proton Tanjung Malim by March 2027. Mohd Seth Sulaiman, EPMB's general manager of business development, highlighted that the joint venture will significantly enhance the company's current manufacturing capabilities, integrating advanced technologies that meet the requirements of Proton-Geely for both domestic and export markets.

Sulaiman added that the collaboration with Hebei Shichang combines Chinese technological expertise with EPMB's manufacturing and supply-chain strengths, positioning the company to achieve its technological and manufacturing goals.