cbu meaning in car industry

Currently, the cheapest car model on the market is the Kia Rio, priced at approximately 60,000 Malaysian Ringgit. This South Korean compact car is known for its affordability and practicality, equipped with a 1.4L naturally aspirated engine, making it suitable for urban commuting. If considering used cars, mainstream brand models aged 3-5 years, such as the Toyota Vios or Honda City, can be purchased for 30,000 to 50,000 Malaysian Ringgit. It is worth noting that the newly launched entry-level version of the Chery Tiggo 8 in 2026 is priced at 129,800 Malaysian Ringgit. Although not the cheapest option, it stands out for its cost-effectiveness as a seven-seater SUV. Its 1.6T turbocharged engine delivers 197 horsepower and comes with a 12.3-inch infotainment screen, priced approximately 30,000 Malaysian Ringgit lower than comparable joint-venture brand models. When purchasing a car, it is advisable to compare price variations between Johor and Borneo regions, where differences for certain models may reach 5%-10%. Additionally, ancillary costs such as insurance and road tax should be factored in, typically amounting to 3%-5% of the vehicle's price.

Currently, various SUV models on the market have their own distinct features. As a representative of emerging electric SUVs, the XPENG G6 is priced between RM158,888 and RM193,888, attracting tech enthusiasts with its intelligent features. In the traditional fuel vehicle segment, the 2025 Perodua Ativa offers a cost-effective option with an entry price of RM62,500, while the 2025 Land Rover Range Rover is positioned as a high-end luxury model at RM2.69 million. The recently launched 2026 Chery Tiggo 8 introduces an entry-level variant with a seven-seat configuration, powered by a 1.6T engine (197hp/290N·m) and priced at RM129,800—RM30,000 lower than the Pro version—making it ideal for practicality-focused family users. Among German brands, the 2025 BMW X1 starts at RM250,800, delivering a premium driving experience. For those preferring local options, the 2025 Proton X50 is priced at RM85,800, striking a balance between value and functionality. It is advisable to select based on budget and requirements (such as space, performance, or tech features), and we recommend test-driving to assess handling and comfort differences firsthand.

The five most expensive car models currently on the market include the Bugatti Brouillard 2026 (approximately MYR 90,000,000), Bugatti Centodieci 2020 (approximately MYR 36,000,000), Ferrari F80 2025 (approximately MYR 16,000,000), Bugatti Chiron Super Sport Red Dragon 2024 (approximately MYR 16,500,000), and Bugatti Divo 2026 (approximately MYR 17,100,000). These models are all limited-edition or high-performance customized versions from ultra-luxury brands, with their prices driven by exclusivity, handcrafted artistry, and cutting-edge technology. For instance, the Bugatti Brouillard features a W16 engine and carbon fiber monocoque structure, while the Ferrari F80 utilizes a hybrid powertrain and race-track-inspired aerodynamic design. Notably, certain models like the Bugatti Centodieci command substantial premiums due to their global production limit of just 10 units, and the price variation between the 2025 and 2026 Ferrari F80 models may result from bespoke customization options. Such vehicles typically require advance reservations and have extended delivery timelines, primarily targeting affluent collectors and automotive connoisseurs.

When purchasing a car in Malaysia, one should comprehensively consider personal income level, vehicle usage requirements, and budget. With a monthly payment budget of approximately 1,000 Malaysian Ringgit and a down payment of 10,000 Malaysian Ringgit, the Toyota Veloz is an excellent option due to its spacious practicality. For those prioritizing economical commuting, Japanese sedans like the Vios or City offer a balance of comfort and fuel efficiency. For tighter budgets, the Perodua Myvi or Bezza are viable choices—these local models typically feature monthly payments below 1,000 Malaysian Ringgit and lower maintenance costs. Before finalizing a purchase, it is crucial to conduct a test drive to assess the vehicle's space, handling, and features to ensure they align with daily needs. For instance, those frequently transporting goods should avoid short-rear models. Regarding financing, required documents include an ID card, three months' salary slips, and bank statements. Self-employed individuals must provide company financial statements. Additionally, car prices vary by region. Kuala Lumpur's higher tariffs result in more expensive vehicles, whereas local models in Johor and other areas are more competitively priced. Ownership costs—including fuel expenses (which fluctuate weekly under the Automatic Pricing Mechanism), insurance, and maintenance—should also be factored in. Opting for fuel-efficient models can help reduce long-term expenditures. For those who favor stylish designs or reputable brands, Japanese models like Honda and Toyota, or local options such as the Proton Saga, are worth considering. However, the final decision should align with both financial capacity and practical needs.

Currently, the most popular car brand in Malaysia is the local brand Perodua, which sold 169,847 units in the first half of 2024, accounting for a 41.3% market share. Its flagship models Myvi and Axia have become the preferred national cars due to their economic practicality and high cost-effectiveness. Closely following is another local brand Proton, ranking second with 72,088 units sold; its models such as the X70 SUV and Iriz have performed prominently in the family car market. Among Japanese brands, Toyota and Honda have shown stable performance—economical sedans like the Toyota Vios, Corolla Cross, and Honda City hold significant market shares—while luxury brands such as BMW and Mercedes-Benz are mainly concentrated in the urban high-end market. Overall, Malaysian consumers prefer models with affordable prices and low maintenance costs. Local brands dominate the market due to policy support and advantages in localized services, among which Perodua's compact car designs are particularly in line with local road conditions and family travel needs, continuing to lead the sales rankings.

Currently, the best-selling Chinese brand car in the Malaysian market is Chery, with annual sales reaching 4,493 units in 2023 and further increasing to 6,898 units in the first half of 2024. Among these, the OMODA 5 became the only Chinese model to enter the TOP 30 best-selling models. BYD specializes in new energy vehicles, with sales of 3,728 units in 2023 and electric vehicle sales reaching 4,368 units in the first half of 2024. Its models such as the Seal and Atto 3 have performed prominently in the electric vehicle segment. Although the overall market share of Chinese brands remains below 2%, they are gradually gaining favor among young consumers, particularly the Chinese community, which shows higher purchase intention, thanks to their advantages in intelligent features and new energy technologies. It is worth noting that the Malaysian automotive market is still dominated by local brands Proton and Perodua, along with Japanese cars, with fuel-powered vehicles accounting for as much as 88% of the market. However, the penetration rate of electric vehicles has risen rapidly from 0.36% in 2022 to 2.6% in the first half of 2024, providing Chinese brands with opportunities for differentiated competition.

As a pure electric SUV under GAC Honda, the relatively high pricing of the P7 is mainly influenced by multiple factors. First, as a joint-venture brand model, the P7 has to bear high import tariffs and localization costs. Although Malaysia's excise duty on imported cars (with a tax rate of up to 105% for vehicles with a displacement exceeding 2500cc) does not directly apply to electric vehicles, the supply chain costs remain approximately 30% higher than those in China. Second, the P7 is positioned in the mid-to-high-end market; features such as a 2930mm wheelbase, 650km range, and intelligent dual screens have driven up manufacturing costs, while the Honda brand premium is also reflected in its pricing strategy. Notably, investments in electric vehicle technology R&D (e.g., battery safety and electronic control systems) have further increased cost allocation. Compared with competing domestic brand models, the P7's joint-venture status results in a price premium of 20,000 to 30,000 Malaysian ringgit. However, the manufacturer recently adjusted its market strategy with a limited-time price reduction of 50,000 Malaysian ringgit, indicating that the alignment between pricing and local consumer expectations still requires optimization. In the long term, electric vehicle prices in Malaysia are also affected by factors such as exchange rate fluctuations, the availability of charging infrastructure, and government subsidy policies.

Perodua was the best-selling brand in the Malaysian automotive market in 2025, with total annual sales reaching 359,904 units, far exceeding Proton's 151,561 units in second place. This achievement confirms its absolute advantages in cost-effectiveness and market penetration as a local brand. Toyota ranked third with 129,085 units, continuing to lead the non-national car segment, while Honda ranked fourth with 75,599 units, reflecting the solid position of Japanese brands in the traditional fuel vehicle sector. Notably, Chinese brands Chery and BYD entered the top six with 31,666 units and 14,407 units respectively, with year-on-year growth rates as high as 60% and 68%, demonstrating the success of their electric vehicle and cost-effective SUV strategies. From the monthly data, Perodua's monthly sales remained stable at over 30,000 units, and set a record of 33,657 units in November, with its flagship model Bezza continuing to lead the segment. Overall, the market pattern in 2025 showed a situation of dominance by the two national car giants, steady performance of Japanese brands, and the rise of Chinese brands. Although electric vehicle brands like Tesla did not enter the top ten of the year, their monthly sales have exceeded 1,300 units, indicating that future competition will become more diversified.

In Malaysia, as representatives of local automotive brands, Proton and Perodua possess the most comprehensive and historically significant reports on automotive development. Since its establishment in 1985, Proton has gradually achieved localization by adopting Mitsubishi's technology; its models such as Saga and Persona have become national car icons, and in recent years, it has launched SUV models like the X70 and ventured into the electric vehicle sector. Perodua, through its partnership with Daihatsu, has captured approximately 40% of the market share with economical compact cars such as Myvi and Axia, and its reports document the transformation from imported component substitution to independent R&D. Both brands regularly release production and sales data as well as technical white papers through the Malaysian Automotive Association (MAA), while third-party platforms like AutoBuzz and Wapcar also provide long-term reliability tracking reports based on user feedback. Notably, local brand reports typically encompass government policy support (e.g., domestic tax incentives), local supply chain integration, and export milestones (such as Proton's expansion into the Middle East market)—content rarely featured in international brand reports. For specific model histories, one may consult Proton Saga's 35-year evolution records or Perodua Myvi's detailed archives highlighting its 15 consecutive years as the best-selling model.

Australia currently has relevant deployments for hydrogen fuel cell vehicles, but the overall development remains in the early stages. Toyota Australia has announced plans to launch a hydrogen fuel cell version of the HiLux by 2028 and set a target for zero-emission and low-emission vehicles (including hydrogen fuel vehicles) to account for 30% of sales by 2030, reflecting automakers' long-term commitment to hydrogen energy technology. However, industry analysis indicates that Australia's hydrogen energy infrastructure development is lagging, with 80% of low-carbon hydrogen projects still in early-stage development, and the inadequate hydrogen refueling station network may hinder the adoption of hydrogen fuel vehicles. The government is advancing the hydrogen energy sector through tax incentives and international collaborations, such as signing green hydrogen equipment supply agreements with Asian companies and exporting hydrogen-powered commercial vehicles (e.g., the order for 147 hydrogen-powered waste collection trucks from WCT). Although Australia possesses abundant renewable energy resources suitable for green hydrogen production, high engineering costs have resulted in its levelized hydrogen cost being less competitive compared to Europe and the Middle East, necessitating further policy support expansion to accelerate the commercialization of hydrogen fuel vehicles.