Naza in talks with Brabus to set up hub in Malaysia

This will involve huge investments that will go beyond just the distribution of the Brabus brand

The Naza Group is in talks with Brabus GmbH to persuade the German-based tuning brand to set up a regional hub in Malaysia.

This will involve huge investments that will go beyond just the distribution of the Brabus brand.

"We are in talks with Brabus ... other than as the importer of cars, parts and services, we are also exploring other avenues on how to put the Brabus brand in the Malaysian market and at the same time in the region," Naza Group's joint executive chairman SM Faisal SM Nasimuddin said.

The talks are almost halfway through but he declined to say when they will be finalised.

"God willing, we will have something new to offer from Brabus that will contribute to the local economy. We are trying to do something for the Asian region," he said.

Naza-Brabus Motor Sdn Bhd is the sole and exclusive distributor for Brabus in Malaysia and Singapore since October 2001.

Brabus, founded in 1977, is a high-performance aftermarket tuning company which specialises in Mercedes-Benz, Smart and Maybach vehicles.

Faisal did not discount the possibility of customising Brabus cars in the country or setting up a design centre here.

"Brabus is not only involved in tuning cars but also in the original export market (OEM) as well. They have a beautiful set up when in comes to the design house," he said.

"Those interested in (automotive) design will be able to have a facility to explore, expand and show off their skills," he added.

Naza-Brabus Motor Sdn Bhd sells about 100 Brabus tuned cars each year and holds about 3 per cent of the market for tuned cars.

Yesterday, the franchise holder launched the Brabus E-Class W212 offered in three distinct trim packages.

Faisal wants to sell about 200 units of the Brabus cars annually to increase its market share to 5 per cent.

Meanwhile, Faisal hopes to conclude the deal with General Motors to distribute Chevrolet cars and parts in Malaysia within this year.

He said the collaboration between Naza and GM will include the distribution of completely knocked down and completely built up units.

"We are waiting to finalise the terms and sign the distribution agreement," he said.