Honda Launches CKD Jazz Hybrid Output in Malaysia

Honda rolls out the first complete-knocked-down hybrid vehicle built in Malaysia.

Honda Malaysia Managing Director and CEO Yoichiro Ueno says building the Jazz (Fit) hybrid at its Pegoh plant in Alor Gajah reinforces the auto maker’s position as the pioneer in hybrid technology in Malaysia.

“Since the first Honda hybrid car arrived on Malaysian roads in 2007, we have sold a total of 12,194 units as of October 2012,” Ueno says in a statement.

Honda Malaysia has set a sales target of 4,800 CKD Jazz Hybrids in 2013.

The hybrid’s success would not have been possible without the support and efforts by Malaysian government to promote energy-efficient vehicles and green technology, Ueno says.

The Jazz Hybrid debuted in March as a completely built-up import. It is a compact 5-door hatchback equipped with Honda’s signature 1.3L i-VTEC engine and integrated-motor-assist hybrid system.

To produce the vehicle locally, the auto maker brought the latest technology to Malaysia and provided training for workers to ensure the quality meets the auto maker’s global standard.

“The introduction of this CKD Jazz Hybrid into the current manufacturing system has been the shortest development of a new model in the history of Honda Malaysia,” the auto maker says.

Honda says the CKD Jazz Hybrid retains most of the functions of the imported CBU built-up version. Safety features include dual front airbags, vehicle stability assist, antilock brakes, immobilizer system and 4-corner reverse sensor.

The battery comes with a 5-year or 87,500-mile (140,000-km) warranty.