Malaysia’s second national car company, Perodua, plans to take on a more active role in the design and development of new cars, according to local reports.

The company is majority locally-owned, but with Japan’s Daihatsu Motor holding 20% of the equity, Daihatsu (Malaysia) 5% and Japan’s Mitsui 6%.

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Daihatsu has been the main technology partner for the company since the first Perodua car was launched in 1993.

Perodua has grown rapidly since then to become the best-selling car brand in the country with a 36% of passenger vehicle sales so far this year – way ahead of first national carmaker Proton.

The report suggests that Perodua will be involved in the design of the bodies and interiors of forthcoming models, with Daihatsu transferring R&D technology and expertise to its local partner.

Perodua will continue to use Daihatsu’s platforms, including engine and transmissions, and other technologies in the foreseeable future.

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In recent months, Perodua has been expanding its R&D team to improve its capabilities, which it hopes will improve the local appeal of its vehicles.

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