PETALING JAYA: The first production electric pick-up truck has arrived in Malaysia. But it will cost a pretty penny to own.
It comes from China's JAC, a Hefei-based passenger car and commercial vehicle maker that is little known in Malaysia but has been making vehicles for over 60 years.
The JAC T9 battery electric vehicle (BEV) was launched today alongside a diesel version. Both are fully imported from China. Present at the event was Evolvelectric Motors chief executive officer Lau Yit Mun.
The electric T9 is priced at a whopping RM199,888 (on-the-road without insurance). It is offered with 6 years or 200,000km warranty for the battery, whichever comes first.
The T9 Diesel retails for RM119,888 and is backed by 8 years or unlimited mileage engine warranty for the first owner, whichever comes first, subject to the applicable service policy. It is offered with 5 years or unlimited mileage warranty, whichever comes first.
These are introductory prices, which are valid until the end of 2025.
JAC hopes to make its mark in Malaysia. The brand was introduced to Malaysia in October last year with the T9 supposed to be launched in January this year but was delayed until today.
In Malaysia, JAC pick-up trucks are distributed by Evolvelectric Motors Sdn Bhd, while light commercial vehicles or lorries are handled by JAC Auto Malaysia.
The electric T9 is powered by an 88kWh LFP battery from CATL, which delivers a range of 340km (WLTP).
Its dual-motor setup produces a total output of 220kW and peak torque of 516Nm, enabling a top speed of 140kph. DC fast charging at 88kW allows the battery to go from 15% charge to 80% in 45 minutes. AC charging takes around eight and a half hours to go from 15% to full.
In contrast, the diesel variant is powered by a 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel engine that generates 125kW and 410Nm within a narrow rev band of 1,500rpm to 2,500rpm.
It is paired with a ZF eight-speed automatic transmission that sends power exclusively to the rear wheels.
The T9 diesel variant holds the distinction of being the only pickup truck in Malaysia to achieve a 5-star ANCAP safety rating under the latest scoring methodology. Meanwhile, the T9 BEV marks its place as the nation’s first 4×4 electric pickup.
CEO Lau said the T9’s versatility and accessibility make it a good choice for a broad range of drivers, whether for business, family or everyday commuting.
He said the vehicle was built on JAC’s third-generation international platform, delivering enhanced stability, comfort and safety. JAC’s export achievements were also highlighted, having become China’s leading exporter of pickup trucks in 2024.
The T9 is outfitted with a host of modern features including 64-colour ambient lighting, a 10.4-inch touchscreen infotainment system supporting Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a 7-inch instrument cluster and a 360° high-definition camera. Its intelligent electronic shift offers four modes – Eco, Normal, Sport and Snow – while a level 2 advanced driver assistance system further enhances safety.
Additional conveniences include multiple charging interfaces such as 50W wireless charging, USB, Type-C and a 220V multi-power socket, along with an armrest that features a cooling air vent.
The T9 will be showcased at Highstreet, 1Utama mall from today until March 9.
In tandem with its launch, Evolvelectric Motors is running a test drive contest offering a free trip to Perth, with the contest open until May 31.
To take part in the contest, participants must visit a JAC roadshow location for a test drive or book a test drive through Evolvelectric Motors’ Facebook page.
The contest winner will win a 4D3N stay in Perth with roundtrip airfare for a family of four including two adults and two children under 12 years of age, complimentary JAC T9 rental car for the entire duration of the trip and an accommodation for three nights at a selected hotel.
More contest details are available on Evolvelectric Motors’ Facebook page.
JAC T9 BEV
