KUALA LUMPUR: Mercedes-Benz Malaysia says the planned Asia Pacific after-sales logistics hub in Johor and the latest local assembly of two compact car models reflect parent Mercedes-Benz AG's commitment in Malaysia.
Mercedes-Benz Malaysia vice president of sales and marketing Michael Jopp said with this, Mercedes-Benz was committed to investing more to bolster its foothold in the country.
Being the regional hub in Asia Pacific, the new centre in Johor Bahru would serve Mercedes-Benz customers beyond Malaysia, Jopp said.
"The two new additions to our local production line are testament of our commitment to further expand our local foothold and increased investment in the local automotive sector," he told reporters after the launch of the locally-produced A-Class sedan and GLA sports utility vehicle here today.
The new distribution centre at the Senai Airport City is expected to start operation in 2024.
It will be a part of Mercedes-Benz parent Daimler AG's global after-sales supply chain network, serving as a distribution site of spare parts for 22 countries in Asia Pacific.
The hub will handle the importation, storage and regional management of spare part and accessories.
A newly-established company - Mercedes Benz Parts Logistics Asia Pacific (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd, a 100 per cent subsidiary of Mercedes-Benz – will operate the facility.
Jopp said both the A-Class and GLA are the company's success and best-selling models.
"We are excited to announce that they will now be locally assembled at Pekan, Pahang. We believe that this expansion will continue to strengthen our local offerings as we strive to provide our customers the very best of premium and luxury German engineering."
He said Mercedes-Benz had invested significantly in the new, third production line at the Pekan plant to facilitate the assembly of the two models.
"The plant has markedly changed since the last time you visited it," Jopp remarked.
Setting standards in the local automotive segment, the vehicles will be available in two variants namely the A200 Progressive Line, the A250 AMG Line, the GLA 200 Progressive Line and the GLA 250 AMG Line.
The A200 Progressive Line and the A250 AMG Line are priced at RM219,888 and RM249,888 respectively.
They offer great utility that includes above-average shoulder, elbow and headroom plus easy access to the rear.
The GLA is also available in two variants.
The GLA 200 Progressive Line sells for RM242,888 and the GLA 250 AMG Line at RM278,888.
With all kinds of strength, the GLA is the entry-level model to the successful luxury Mercedes-Benz SUV family.