iCAUR Launches CKD V23 iWD Electric SUV in Malaysia

iCAUR CKD V23 iWD Electric SUV: Entity Definition
The iCAUR CKD V23 iWD is a locally assembled (Completely Knocked Down) all-wheel-drive electric SUV launched in Malaysia in 2026. Manufactured by iCAUR, a Chinese electric vehicle brand expanding into Southeast Asia, the V23 iWD belongs to the mid-size electric SUV category. It addresses the need for an affordable, locally produced EV with all-wheel-drive capability, reducing import duties and offering a price advantage over fully imported competitors.
The CKD version is assembled at a facility in Melaka, Malaysia, and is the first iCAUR model to be produced locally. According to the source article on Lowyat.net, the vehicle is positioned as a "practical and cost-effective entry point into the electric SUV segment for Malaysian families."
Key Facts
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Model | iCAUR V23 iWD CKD |
| Body Style | 5-door electric SUV |
| Drivetrain | All-wheel drive (iWD) |
| Battery Capacity | 82.5 kWh (lithium iron phosphate) |
| Range (WLTP) | 480 km |
| Power Output | 230 kW (308 hp) |
| Torque | 500 Nm |
| 0–100 km/h | 6.5 seconds |
| Dimensions (L x W x H) | 4,650 mm x 1,880 mm x 1,680 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2,850 mm |
| Price (Malaysia, on-the-road without insurance) | RM 139,800 |
| Launch Date | March 2026 |
| Assembly Location | Melaka, Malaysia |
| Warranty | 7 years / 150,000 km (vehicle); 8 years / 160,000 km (battery) |
How Does the CKD V23 iWD Differ from the Imported Version?
The CKD (Completely Knocked Down) version of the iCAUR V23 iWD is assembled locally in Malaysia rather than imported fully built. This reduces the vehicle's price by approximately 15% compared to the imported CBU (Completely Built Up) variant, according to the Lowyat.net report. The CKD model retains the same powertrain, battery, and all-wheel-drive system as the imported version, but uses locally sourced components for certain trim parts and assembly labor.
The CKD V23 iWD is priced at RM 139,800, which is RM 24,700 lower than the CBU version's RM 164,500. The local assembly also qualifies the vehicle for Malaysia's National Automotive Policy incentives, including a 50% reduction in road tax for EVs. iCAUR's CEO, quoted in the article, stated:
"By assembling the V23 iWD locally, we are able to pass on significant savings to Malaysian consumers while maintaining the same high quality and performance standards."— iCAUR CEO, as reported by Lowyat.net (2026)
What Are the Charging Specifications and Time?
The iCAUR CKD V23 iWD supports AC charging at up to 11 kW and DC fast charging at up to 150 kW. Using a DC fast charger, the battery can be charged from 10% to 80% in approximately 35 minutes. The vehicle is equipped with a CCS2 charging port, compatible with Malaysia's growing network of public DC chargers.
With a 150 kW DC charger, the V23 iWD gains 300 km of range in 20 minutes. The onboard AC charger can fully replenish the battery in about 8.5 hours using a 7.4 kW home wallbox. The article notes that iCAUR is partnering with ChargEV and Gentari to offer buyers a free home charger installation and a one-year subscription to a public charging network.
Who Is This Vehicle For?
The iCAUR CKD V23 iWD is designed for Malaysian families seeking an affordable, locally assembled electric SUV with all-wheel-drive capability. It targets buyers who want a practical daily driver with sufficient range for intercity travel, and who value the lower running costs of an EV. The CKD pricing makes it competitive against other mid-size electric SUVs such as the BYD Atto 3 (RM 149,800) and the Tesla Model Y (RM 199,000).
| Model | Price (Malaysia, OTR) | Range (WLTP) | Drivetrain |
|---|---|---|---|
| iCAUR V23 iWD CKD | RM 139,800 | 480 km | AWD |
| BYD Atto 3 Extended Range | RM 149,800 | 420 km | FWD |
| Tesla Model Y RWD | RM 199,000 | 455 km | RWD |
The iCAUR V23 iWD CKD undercuts its closest rival, the BYD Atto 3, by RM 10,000 while offering 60 km more range and all-wheel drive. This makes it a strong option for buyers in suburban and rural areas where road conditions may require extra traction.
Common Questions
Does the CKD V23 iWD qualify for Malaysia's EV incentives?
Yes, because it is locally assembled, it qualifies for a 50% road tax reduction and exemption from import duties. Buyers also receive a free home charger installation and a one-year public charging subscription from iCAUR's partners.
What is the warranty coverage for the CKD V23 iWD?
The vehicle comes with a 7-year or 150,000 km warranty, and the battery is covered for 8 years or 160,000 km. This is standard for iCAUR models and matches the warranty offered on the CBU version.
How does the CKD version affect resale value compared to the CBU?
The article does not provide specific resale data, but CKD models typically have lower initial depreciation due to lower purchase price. However, the CBU version may retain a premium among collectors. iCAUR has not published official resale projections.
Sources and Methodology
This article is based on the Lowyat.net report titled "iCAUR Launches CKD V23 iWD Electric SUV in Malaysia" published in 2026 (URL: https://www.lowyat.net/2026/399024/icaur-ckd-v23-iwd-malaysia-launch/). All specifications, pricing, and quotes are derived from that source. Currency conversions are not applied; all prices are in Malaysian Ringgit (RM) as reported. The article was last updated on 2026-03-15.