Dunlop makes a return in Malaysia under new stewardship, with Toyotsu Binter Malaysia Sdn Bhd (TBM), during presenting the brand’s renewed direction at the recent Penang Autoshow 2026. Earlier this year, TBM is appointed as the exclusive distributor of Dunlop tyres in Malaysia.
The appearance signals a strengthened market position for Dunlop in Malaysia through improved accessibility, closer engagement with dealers, and a refreshed product lineup for both conventional and electric vehicles (EVs). Dunlop has been in Malaysia since the 1960s, ensuring its relevance across generations. This initiative builds on its heritage while aligning with Toyotsu Binter’s regional expertise in ASEAN markets. This direction is bolstered by Toyotsu Binter’s connection to the Toyota Tsusho Corporation and collaboration with Sumitomo Rubber Industries, enhancing Dunlop’s role in addressing evolving mobility trends in Malaysia and Southeast Asia.
As part of the showcase, Dunlop introduced the Blue Response TG, a passenger car tyre designed to deliver improved ride comfort and handling stability while optimising rolling resistance and cabin quietness, performance characteristics increasingly relevant for electrified vehicles.
Marcus Lim, Managing Director of Toyotsu Binter Malaysia Sdn Bhd, said the transition marks an important step in strengthening Dunlop’s presence locally and reflects a renewed long-term commitment to the Malaysian market.
“This marks the beginning of a new chapter for Dunlop in Malaysia. Our focus is on strengthening supply consistency, expanding dealer reach and ensuring Malaysian motorists benefit from Dunlop’s latest global tyre technologies, including products developed to support the shift towards electrified mobility,” he said.
TBM is currently working with over 190 authorized Dunlop wholesalers, trade partners, and direct dealers across Peninsular Malaysia. They plan to expand this network over the next two years to reach more customers. The company is also looking to introduce special Dunlop retail concepts as part of its long-term strategy.
In addition to expanding distribution, TBM is focusing on strengthening Dunlop’s presence in both replacement and original equipment (OEM) markets in Malaysia. This effort aims to increase the brand’s visibility among vehicle manufacturers.
This includes fitting Dunlop tires on select models from brands like Toyota, Lexus, Isuzu, Mazda, and Leapmotor, including Toyota’s fully electric bZ4X, covering both regular and electric vehicles.
Speaking at the event, Takehiko Asai, Managing Director of Sumitomo Rubber Industries ASEAN, said “Dunlop’s engineering capabilities continue to support its partnerships with global vehicle manufacturers, and our OEM relationships reflect the confidence automakers place in Dunlop’s performance and reliability. This provides a strong foundation as we continue introducing products designed to meet evolving mobility needs in Malaysia and across Southeast Asia.”
Electric vehicles make up about one in every 14 new cars registered in Malaysia. The government aims for these vehicles to represent 15% of all cars by 2030, with ongoing development of the national charging stations.
To meet this shift, Dunlop is increasing the range of tyres designed for electric vehicles (EVs). These tyres are made to handle the unique challenges of EVs, such as their heavier weight, quick acceleration, and lower cabin noise. Current tyre models suitable for EVs include the Sport Maxx Lux, Blue Response TG, SP Sport Maxx 060+, and e.Sport Maxx.
The new e.Sport Maxx, set to launch in Malaysia, will enhance Dunlop’s range of tyres for EVs by offering better fuel efficiency, strong performance in wet and dry conditions, and quieter rides thanks to Silent Core Technology.