since 1976
since 1976
By Lee Pang Seng
DONGFENG in Malaysia wouldn’t ring a bell with many except in the commercial vehicle sector where its heavy-duty trucks have secured a niche, having been in the market here for more than a decade. However, Dongfeng makes more than just trucks as it makes cars too.
It has been doing that since 2003 through joint ventures with such car companies as Kia, Honda and Nissan. It still maintained its links with Nissan but has also engaged Huawei to develop its latest range of vehicles.
Dongfeng’s foray into the Malaysian market began in late 2024 when it launched the Dongfeng Box EV (electric vehicle), a hatchback car along the size of a Perodua Myvi. Dongfeng Car Malaysia follows up this year with more EVs in the 007 sporty looking fastback sedan and the B-segment Vigo Crossover.
The names might be catchy or familiar as 007 might remind many of James Bond, the fictional British special espionage agent, while Vigo might ring a bell with Toyota fans as the name is used in some of the models. Names aside, Dongfeng is entering the market with what it describes as great value deals against rival EVs in the same price category.
The fully imported 007 is made available at a list price of RM169,888 while the Vigo carries a list price of 108,888. What makes the latest Dongfeng offering more appealing is that there is a launch special discount of RM8888; that means the 007 is yours for RM161,000 and the Vigo is a steal at RM100,000.
Dongfeng Car Malaysia sees a new phase with the Singapore-based Volt Auto coming in as a joint venture partner with Central Auto Distributors Bhd, a company under Pekema (Malay Vehicle Importers and Traders Association of Malaysia).
As part of the current launch promotion, Dongfeng is offering an extended ownership package for both models that includes a free ABB wall box, six-year vehicle warranty with unlimited mileage and an eight-year powertrain warranty, also with unlimited mileage.
To mark its entry to the Malaysian market, Dongfeng also launched the Dongfeng Ambassador Search for all Malaysians to take part in. All one needs to do is portray Dongfeng in what it believes in – electric mobility that should be experienced in real, everyday context.
What’s tempting are the great prizes – RM100,000 for a first prize, RM50,000 for second and RM30,000 for third. All winners would also enjoy a one-year car sponsorship of any model in the Dongfeng range. The contest runs till August. At the same time, Dongfeng is exploring CKD (complete knock down) assembly to support its Malaysian EV ecosystem, among other ambitions.
007 Electric Sedan
Described as the next-generation electric sedan, the 007 is said to represent Dongfeng’s vision for EVs that combines speed, intelligence and everyday usability. The speed part is clear as the Prime Intelligent All-wheel Drive variant accelerates from 0 to 100km/h in 3.9 seconds. The rear-wheel drive Premium variant isn’t slow either doing that sprint in 5.8 seconds.
It comes with a 73.48kWh LFP (lithium iron phosphate) battery that allows fast charging in 11 minutes. The electric motor in the Premium RWD delivers 200kW (286hp) and 310Nm while that in the Prime AWD has a higher output of 400kW (544hp) and double the torque at 620Nm. The estimated range with a fully charged battery is 565km for the 007 Premium and 650km for the 007 Prime.
Some of its features include the WANOS Premium 19-speaker surround system with driver headrest speakers, frameless door windows, electric adjustable front seats, panoramic glass roof, vegan leather interior, electric liftback tailgate and wireless charging. The dashboard is well equipped with an 8.8-inch interactive driver display and 15.6-inch central infotainment display.
Its low slung sporty good looks would surely deserve a spot in a Bond’s movie (it boasts a low Cd – aerodynamic co-efficient – of 0.209) and the red painted brake callipers front and rear add a racy note. It comes with four colour options, although striking red or bright yellow is not one of them.
Vigo Crossover
The Vigo Crossover appeals to the family types hankering for a lifestyle image. Its 2715mm wheelbase ensures an interior that should meet space for family needs. The 500-litre luggage space, with an additional 72-litre hidden compartment and 60:40 split folding rear seat rests, in turn provide good accommodation demands.
It has more to offer against the 007 sedan with six-way electrically adjustable front seats, tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS), 540-degree panoramic camera and a split tailgate. The later features a lower panel that needs not be lowered if not required. This panel could support 150kg weight when lowered should you wish to sit on it while out camping.
The Vigo comes with a less powerful LFP battery of 51.87kWh that allows 30-80 per cent charging in 11 minutes. The electric motor driving the front wheels delivers 120kW (161hp) and 230Nm. As a Crossover, it is a heavier vehicle than the 007 and this is reflected in the 0-100km/h acceleration in 9.8 seconds. The battery range is 471km when fully charged.
Its features include a panoramic sunroof, configurable interior ambient lighting with music sync, aerodynamic door mirrors, wireless charging and a full suite of ADAS (advanced driver assistance system) features, among other highlights.The Vigo is available with six colour options, including the striking Canyon Orange hue.
