The Goodwood Festival of Speed has claimed its first ‘victim’. The Lotus Evija X – a one-off track machine built for a specific Nurburgring record – was involved in an accident at the Goodwood event, causing extensive damage to its front end. Fortunately, the driver escaped unharmed.
While it’s not uncommon to see high-powered cars go off track and crash at this short Goodwood course, the Lotus incident is somewhat unusual.
It didn’t occur at Molecomb corner, a challenging left-hander in the middle of the course capable of catching out even professional drivers. Instead, the incident took place right at the start line.
Footage shows the Evija X performing a burnout with thick smoke before suddenly veering to the right and crashing into a hay bale wall. Its front clamshell is crushed, but the driver compartment remains intact.
Analysts suspect it may have stemmed from the software controlling the four electric motors on each wheel, generating almost 2,000hp causing a loss of control. The accident doesn’t appear to be too severe, and it is hoped that the vehicle can be repaired and back in action.
Only one unit was ever produced, and Lotus surely doesn’t have any spares or replacements. In a statement released by Lotus, a few days after the incident:
Evija X is a one-off track version of our electric hyper-car, Evija; one of the most powerful production cars in the world. The Evija X took part in a hill run at Goodwood Festival of Speed on Thursday, 11th July, where it was involved in an incident at the start line.
Following a formal evaluation by both Goodwood and Lotus, asymmetric grip caused by overcorrection during rapid acceleration at the start line was determined to be the cause. Driver was unharmed in the incident and there was minimal damage to the car.
You must have read a story on social media where a girl set a condition that her future husband must have a Honda car to marry her.
There are even women who are willing to leave their boyfriends to be with someone else who owns a Honda. Is the obsession with Honda really that intense?
Approved by prospective mothers-in-law
We believe such things only happen in Malaysia. The Honda brand is so revered that it has become a benchmark and a determining factor for many things. Fresh graduates starting work dream of owning a Honda.
There are also those who are already married but are willing to tighten their belts as long as they can drive a Honda. Then, in the middle of the month, the Maggi noodles lifestyle begins, and sometimes in community groups, questions like, “Where can I find cheap tires for a Civic FE? Are these Linglong tires okay?”
It’s not about the tire brand; actually, it’s fine for regular use. But if you drive a Honda Civic designed for a sporty driving experience, you should provide suitable tires.
When you opt for very budget-friendly tires, it will hinder the actual performance of the Civic. It’s like asking Usain Bolt, the world’s sports champion, to run wearing cheap shoes. Do you think he would want that? A regular runner might outrun him.
Usain Bolt surely prefers branded shoes with specific technologies. Single guys need to drive a Honda to earn a living, and girls only have eyes for a Honda, ignoring other cars. It wouldn’t be surprising if potential mothers-in-law also set Honda as a requirement for their future son-in-law, right?
Why is this so?
This has been a mystery for a long time. Even among us automotive media practitioners in Malaysia, we wonder why Honda is so revered by some Malaysians.
Is Honda beautiful? Latest Honda models like the CR-V and HR-V are indeed beautiful, each design meeting consumer preferences. But other models like the Peugeot 2008 and Mazda CX-30 are also beautiful. It’s undeniable that the City Hatchback can look quite sporty when modified, becoming a craze among the younger generation.
When it comes to speed, it’s just average. The Civic with a 1.5 VTEC Turbo engine is attractive and has higher output compared to competitors like the Mazda3 and Toyota Corolla. However, speed is subjective and depends on several factors. The City and WR-V are not fast.
The City Hatchback e:HEV RS has the most powerful hybrid engine in its class, with 253 Nm of torque. But it’s not a sports car. If we talk about speed, then the Civic Type R is fast, competing with the Volkswagen Golf R and the Mercedes-AMG A35.
Is Honda spacious? We agree on this. Honda models like the City, HR-V, and CR-V can be considered among the most spacious in their segments, but is this the reason for Honda’s popularity among Malaysians? What do you think?
Reality
All this is actually interpreted based on sales figures, as Honda is often the best-selling non-national brand in Malaysia. In 2023 alone, Honda sold more than 80,000 vehicles in the country. However, it’s a different story in international markets.
In Japan, for example, Honda sells around 590,000 vehicles, ranking fourth compared to Toyota and Lexus, which sold over 1.67 million vehicles and took the first spot.
In Europe, Honda is in a lower position, perhaps something we didn’t have time to count. The first place goes to Volkswagen Group with more than 3 million units sold, but yes, this group comprises many brands.
However, the single brand with the highest sales is Ford (518,371), followed by Tesla (366,326) and Nissan (293,476). Yes, Nissan, which doesn’t shine in Malaysia, is quite popular in Europe. Honda sold approximately 60,606 vehicles there in 2023.
Looking at our neighboring countries, in Indonesia, for example, Honda ranks third after Toyota and Daihatsu. In Thailand, Honda also takes the third spot, but behind Toyota and Isuzu.
In conclusion, each market is unique with its own trends and preferences. If you want to remain a staunch fan of a brand, continue as long as you’re not causing any inconvenience.
Buy whatever car you want as long as your wallet allows. It’s interesting to see and compare whether the same situation applies elsewhere.
If you have other topics you usually discuss at coffee shops and would like us to delve into them, please state them in the comment section. Thank you for reading, see you next time!
Today, MINI introduced not one or two, but four new generation models for the Malaysian market. Their names are quite similar, so let’s look at the brief facts for each model.
MINI Cooper SE
This is a fully electric MINI Cooper (EV). It comes with a 54.2kWh battery capable of delivering up to 402km of driving range. Its electric motor provides an output of 218hp and 330Nm, enough to accelerate this hatchback from 0 to 100km/h in just 6.7 seconds.
Among the key features of the MINI Cooper SE are the octagon front grille, 18-inch Night Flash rims, a steering wheel with 3D textile trim, a 240mm round OLED display with iconic toggle switches, MINI Experience Modes, Go-Kart Mode, Driving Assistant, and Parking Assistant Plus.
The MINI Cooper SE is priced at RM193,888 and is available in Blazing Blue, Nanuq White, Chili Red II, Legend Grey, Sunny Side Yellow, Midnight Black II, British Racing Green, and Melting Silver.
MINI Cooper S
As the name suggests, this is the most basic MINI Cooper model, a compact hatchback with a petrol engine. It can be said that this is also the most iconic model, but this new generation has been updated in every aspect.
It features a 2.0-liter turbo engine with 204hp and 300Nm of torque, paired with a 7DCT dual-clutch gearbox. It can accelerate to 100km/h in 6.6 seconds, with a top speed of 242km/h.
Standard features of the Cooper S include the classic octagon grille, adaptive LED headlights, customizable signature lights with three modes, and 18-inch Slide Spoke rims. The suspension has also been tuned for agile driving, including special shock absorbers, high load stabilizers, and Servotronic steering.
Other features include a 240mm OLED display, Classic steering wheel, Head-Up Display, Comfort Package Plus, MINI Experience Modes, MINI Maps Package, and MINI Intelligent Personal Assistant.
The price is RM279,888 and it comes in Ocean Wave Green, Legend Grey, Nanuq White, and Chili Red.
MINI Countryman SE ALL4
The next model is the electric SUV, the MINI Countryman SE ALL4. It features a 66.5kWh battery providing an output of 313hp and 494Nm of torque for its electric motor.
It can accelerate to 100km/h in 5.6 seconds, thanks to the ALL4 all-wheel-drive system, with a top speed of 180km/h.
Key features of the Countryman SE include adaptive LED headlights, an additional 6cm ground clearance, Favoured Trim with unique exterior finishes, 20-inch Windmill Spoke rims, recycled fabric interior trim, JCW seats, a 240mm OLED display, MINI Maps Package, MINI Experience Modes, and MINI Intelligent Personal Assistant.
It is priced at RM258,888 and is available in Smokey Green, Legend Grey, Nanuq White, Melting Silver, Blazing Blue, and Chili Red.
MINI JCW Countryman ALL4
Finally, there is the MINI JCW Countryman ALL4, a petrol SUV model. It is also the most sporty model as it carries the John Cooper Works (JCW) name.
The MINI JCW Countryman is powered by a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder turbo engine producing 300hp and 400Nm of torque. Paired with the ALL4 drive system, it can reach 100km/h in just 5.4 seconds.
Key features include adaptive LED headlights, red roof and side mirrors, black and red finishes on some body parts, JCW Performance Brakes, 20-inch JCW Flag Spoke rims, textile trim on door panels, JCW steering wheel, JCW sports seats, and grey-red finishes. The suspension is also specially tuned for the JCW with a wider track, adaptive JCW suspension, high-load anti-roll bar, and integrated brakes.
The MINI JCW Countryman ALL4 can be yours for RM389,888. It also comes in Legend Grey, Nanuq White, Midnight Black, and Melting Silver.
Shell Recharge made history in Malaysia with the launch of the largest electric vehicle (EV) charging hub at the highest point at Resorts World Genting, Malaysia outfitting it with a high-power 360kW high-performance charging (HPC), providing EV drivers with a convenient and reliable electric vehicle charging facility.
With 10 charging bays comprising four bays equipped with 360kW high-performance charging points and six bays of 22kW AC chargers, the unveiling of an all-inclusive charging hub signifies Shell Recharge’s successful strategic alliance with Porsche Malaysia and Genting Malaysia Berhad, demonstrating a continued commitment to become a key-enabler for e-mobility connectivity in this country.
“The completion of this record-breaking Shell Recharge High-Performance Charging hub located at one of the highest altitudes in Malaysia represents a significant feat in our efforts to build EV charging connectivity in this country,” said Seow Lee Ming, General Manager of Shell Mobility, Malaysia.
“Two years ago, we launched our first Shell Recharge HPC charging point in Tangkak, Johor which was followed closely by the announcement of the completion of 7 HPC charging locations along the North-South highway eight months later. This latest milestone further cements our commitment in expanding our innovative e-mobility solutions nationwide, while providing assured speed, range and connectivity for EV drivers.”
Lee Ming further added that EV drivers can also look forward to more announcements as Shell Malaysia completes its expansion of the convenient and reliable high-performance charging infrastructure along the East Coast Expressway corridor very soon.
To celebrate the completion of the first largest EV high-performance charging hub at the highest altitude in Malaysia, Shell Recharge powered a full-electric Porsche Taycan convoy with the media to demonstrate high-power 360kW charging speed, which provides accessible and convenient charging solutions when travelling to Malaysia’s premier integrated resort destination.
“Our first all-electric sports car has been the game changer since it was first introduced in 2019. Now, we are delighted to surge ahead once again with Shell Malaysia and Genting Malaysia, enabling 360 kW high-power charging for the first time in the country,” said Christopher Hunter, Chief Executive Officer of Sime Darby Auto Performance, representing Porsche Malaysia.
Hunter continued: “With our latest Taycan, 10%-80% State of Charge (SoC) recharge can be now done in approximately 18 minutes using Shell Recharge’s high-power 360kW DC charger. Resorts World Genting will soon be Taycan drivers’ favourite destination for driving and escaping the hustle and bustle of city life.”
Spencer Lee, Senior Vice President for Sales & Marketing and MICE, Genting Malaysia Berhad said, “The Shell Recharge EV Charging Hub not only accelerates our efforts in becoming Malaysia’s most EV-friendly tourist destination but also echoes Resorts World Genting’s commitment to sustainable futures and development as we leapfrog to supporting a greener world with the hosting of one of Malaysia’s largest sustainable business platforms, Genting SustainBiz F&B Expo in September 2024 As Malaysia’s premier integrated resort, we are passionate not only in showcasing unparalleled hospitality but also taking transformative steps to a greener world.”
Pro-Net also announced several warranty packages during the launch, including:
22kWh smartCharge home charger worth RM3,200
Accessories package worth RM2,500
V2L adapter worth RM800
Complimentary 60GB internet data for 5 years
Standard warranty package
In addition, the standard warranty for the smart #3 includes a 4-year unlimited mileage vehicle warranty, an 8-year/150,000km high-voltage component warranty, an 8-year/200,000km battery warranty, and 24/7 roadside assistance.
In terms of specifications, the Pro variant has a 49kWh battery, while the Premium and Brabus variants have a 66kWh battery.
The Pro and Premium variants feature a single rear electric motor with an output of 272hp and 343Nm torque, allowing acceleration from 0-100km/h in 5.8 seconds.
The smart #3 Brabus, on the other hand, has two motors on the front and rear axles, with a total power of 428hp and 543Nm torque. As the #3 Brabus is an AWD vehicle, its acceleration from 0-100km/h is much faster, around 3.7 seconds.
The maximum speed for all variants is 180km/h. The driving range is approximately 455km for the Pro and Premium, and 415km for the Brabus.
Both the BRABUS and Premium variants offer the best-in-segment 22kWh AC charger with the ability to charge the battery from 10 to 80 percent in less than 3 hours.
Furthermore, the smart #3 also enhances the latest safety technology, with 23 high-precision sensors supporting 21 ADAS functions to ensure driver safety on the road.
Standard features of the smart #3 include a Panoramic Halo Roof, CyberSparksLED+ with adaptive lighting assistance, and an illuminated front grille.
FOR fans of cars and motorcycling sports in Malaysia, SpeedFest 2024 will meet you, an event expected to set a record for the largest car gathering in the country.
The event, to be held at KL Base, Sungai Besi on July 13 and 14, 2024, will bring together car enthusiasts from across the region to enjoy the unique automotive event and culture.
SpeedFest 2024 promises an exhibition of various types of vehicles, including modified cars, luxury cars, restomod vehicles, unique vehicles, and race cars.
One of the main attractions is a multi-category car competition, where participants will showcase the unique features and accessories of their vehicles to compete for the ultimate throne.
In addition, automotive legends such as Shoji Inoue, Jin Horino, and Daijiro Inada from Japan will be special guests, providing an opportunity for you to meet these icons.
For those seeking adrenaline thrills, you will be treated to action from drift shows and drag races.
The e-racing zone offers an advanced virtual racing experience, providing a glimpse into the future of motor sports.
“SpeedFest is not just a car exhibition; it is a delightful celebration of automotive spirit, innovation, and community,” said KY Gan, CEO of Carlist.my.
“We are very excited to bring together various types of vehicles and enthusiasts from all walks of life, creating unforgettable memories and transcending the boundaries of car culture.”
Want to bring family members along? Don’t worry, SpeedFest 2024 is family-friendly too.
It features a diecast car exhibition showcasing models and collections suitable for enthusiasts of all ages.
Adding a touch of glamour to the event is a beauty queen contest featuring charming participants, combining the worlds of fashion and automotive culture.
SpeedFest 2024 will be open from 10:00 AM to 12:00 AM on both days.
You can download the WeMotoo app for ticket purchases before the event. Ticket counters will also be open during the event for purchases.
Perhaps there are some who feel that their BMW is already expensive enough to disturb their pockets, but there are those who become ‘richer’ after owning a BMW.
An American man has won a lawsuit worth USD 1.9 million (RM 8.95 million) after his finger was caught and severed by a door with a soft-close function.
Godwin Boateng, a self-employed software engineer, claimed that the soft-close door on his 2013 BMW X5 was not functioning properly and trapped the tip of his thumb.
In the incident in July 2016, Boateng was resting his finger on the driver’s door of the X5 with the door open about one foot. The door then closed, trapping his thumb until it severed. Surgeons were unable to reattach his finger.
Boateng sued BMW for an amount of USD 3 million (RM 14.13 million), stating that he would face a loss of USD 250,000 (RM 1.12 million) in annual income as a self-employed software engineer.
BMW inspected Boateng’s X5 and determined that there was no issue with the soft-close door. The German company also stated that the owner’s manual warned about the door and mentioned that the “the plaintiff understood since childhood not to put a finger or body part between a door and its frame while it is closing.”
The case gained traction, and earlier this month, the jury agreed to award compensation worth USD 1.9 million (RM 8.95 million). BMW was not found guilty for the faulty door, but the jury still believed the company was 100 percent at fault for Boateng’s thumb injury.
In the lawsuit claim, Boateng argued that BMW’s soft-close door is more dangerous compared to windows that use sensors to detect objects between the window and frame.
The lawsuit also included graphic descriptions of Boateng’s thumb injury, stating that the door not so “softly snapped through the flesh, nerves, blood vessels, tendons, musculature, and bone structure of Boateng’s right thumb.”
Following the assessment, BMW maintained that there was no damage to the vehicle or the functioning of the soft-close door.
However, it is uncertain whether they will make any design changes in the future.
A Hennessey test driver narrowly escaped an accident at a speed of 400km/h involving the Venom F5 hypercar at the Kennedy Space Center in Florida recently.
According to a statement by Hennessey on their Instagram, the testing team at that time was testing the aerodynamic settings for the 1,817hp F5.
It lost downforce at a speed of 250 mph (402km/h), causing the driver to lose control. What’s remarkable is that the driver escaped the accident without any injuries.
The cause of the incident is not yet known. Hennessey stated that their team is analyzing data to determine the cause of the incident. “I am very grateful to our team of engineers and technicians who designed and built a very strong vehicle,” said Hennessey in a statement.
“We also thank the first response teams and staff at KSC for their prompt response in ensuring the safety of all parties.”
Hennessey claims the Venom F5 to be the fastest vehicle in the world, capable of reaching speeds of 311 mph (500km/h). However, no attempts to reach that speed have been made (up to this point).
There are no details about the condition of the vehicle or the accident situation. It is hoped that the damage is not too severe. Nonetheless, we are excited to see Hennessey achieve a speed of 500km/h one day.
A few weeks ago, Proton announced the appointment of the first 17 official e.MAS dealers during the brand’s launch on June 12.
To date, this number has increased to 18 dealers across Malaysia.
The establishment of 18 Proton e.Mas branches, represented by 16 dealers, signifies a significant step towards leading the development of an extensive and comprehensive network.
Seventeen of these branches are strategically located throughout Peninsular Malaysia: 3 in Kuala Lumpur, 4 in Selangor, 2 in Johor, 3 in Perak, 2 in Penang, 1 in Kedah, 1 in Kelantan, and 1 in Pahang. One branch is situated in East Malaysia, specifically in Sabah.
These branches operate under a comprehensive network model, ranging from 1S centers to 3S centers to ensure customers receive holistic services from every aspect.
This development demonstrates PRO-NET’s dedication to establishing a complete and comprehensive ecosystem to ensure readiness for prospective Proton e.MAS owners.
PRO-NET aims to achieve 30 dealer branches by 2025, with a flexible expansion plan based on high demand.
PRO-NET is seeking interested and committed partners to join the Proton e.MAS dealer network in the following areas:
We are familiar with scale model kits that need to be assembled, painted, and detailed to resemble a real car, providing satisfaction for hobby enthusiasts. However, how often do we come across a kit with a clear body that can reveal the chassis and components inside the car?
Tamiya has released the 1/24 scale “full view” model of the Mercedes-Benz 300 SL, the latest addition to their series of plastic models.
When assembled, this model has a length of 188mm, a width of 75mm, and a height of 53mm. The body of the 300 SL is intricately modeled and can be assembled without painting, allowing you to appreciate and gaze at the details inside.
The iconic ‘gull wing’ doors can also be opened, as well as the front hood. The cabin section is also detailed with sporty seats, gear lever, and instrument panel. Other parts are also quite realistic, such as the suspension, mesh in the front air space, logos, emblems, and rubber tires.
Of course, beneath this clear body, you can observe the tubular chassis frame and the 3.0-liter 6-cylinder engine. It is a unique model when assembled.
An audit review has found that the procurement and acquisition performance of the Royal Malaysian Navy’s (TLDM) vessels under the 11th Malaysia Plan (RMK-11) and RMK-12 is lower than the set targets.
The Auditor General’s Report 2/2024 states that TLDM only received four ships out of the planned 18, which amounts to only 22.2 percent of the target.
“TLDM was supposed to acquire 10 Littoral Mission Ships (LMS) under RMK-11 and RMK-12, but only four LMS ships were completed in procurement and received by December 31, 2022,” the report said.
“TLDM was also supposed to receive two Multi-Role Support Ships (MRSS) under RMK-12, but the procurement will only be carried out under RMK-13 due to funding constraints.”
Furthermore, this situation has led to TLDM still using ships that exceed their operational lifespan.
In addition, the delay in the readiness of five Littoral Combat Ships (LCS) has affected the failure to achieve the ship ownership targets. These ships were supposed to be prepared and received between 2019 and 2022, but as of December 2022, the ships had not been received.
As a result, based on the decision of the Cabinet Meeting on April 20, 2022, the government has decided to reduce the procurement of LCS ships by only one unit.
According to the Auditor General’s Report released yesterday, the 18 ships that TLDM was supposed to receive consisted of 10 LMS, 6 LCS, and two MRSS.
Although the DeLorean DMC-12 looks great and cool in the Back to the Future film trilogy, many viewers and fans are unaware that the actual car with its stainless-steel body is not fast.
The car is powered by a rear-mounted V6 engine producing 130hp and can accelerate from 0 to 100km/h in 9.5 seconds (tested in 1981). Now, Electrogenic – a UK firm – has a solution to further speed up the DeLorean with their bolt-on EV kit.
The fuel tank is replaced with a 42kWh battery pack. Then, the engine bay is filled with an electric motor, inverter, charger, and a well-integrated cooling system.
This electric package is presented in a stainless-steel casing matching the car’s body, along with Electrogenic branding in the same font as the DeLorean. The kit also comes with a custom driveshaft and control unit with driving modes (Sport, Eco, and Town).
Electrogenic claims that the electric motor in this DeLorean produces 215hp, which is 85hp more than the original engine. With the conversion to an EV, Electrogenic states that it enables the DeLorean to accelerate from 0 to 96km/h in less than five seconds.
The driving range is up to 240km. As for charging, it can use a CCS charger for DC, though Electrogenic does not disclose the maximum charging rate and time required.
The price is also not specified, but according to Electrogenic, this EV kit is a plug-and-play directly onto the original engine mounts. No cutting, drilling, or welding is required. Nonetheless, the electric version of the DeLorean will surely make Doc Brown exclaim, “Great Scott!”.
SIGNIFY, the world leader in lighting, today announces a new partnership with the Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team. Connected by their shared passion for technological innovation and sustainability the partnership will drive forward the team’s vision of becoming one of the world’s most sustainable professional sports teams.
Eric Rondolat, CEO, Signify said: “We are proud to partner with Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1, a team that is determined to lead both on and off the track.
“We share a passion for responsible innovation to drive progress in our industries and beyond,” he added.
Toto Wolff, Team Principal and CEO, Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team, commented, “Innovation and performance are at the heart of everything we do. We are also conscious of our wider social responsibilities and therefore embed sustainability in every action.
“Partnering with Signify is an exciting step that will help us make further progress in both of these areas. We look forward to working together to establish synergies in this area and their support in our ambition to become one of the world’s most sustainable sports teams.”
Signify and Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 are committed to responsible innovation, founded on a shared belief that performance should not come at any cost and that sustainability does not compromise on performance.
As both teams continue to drive the transformation of their industries, responsible innovation elevates performance and leads to sustainable outcomes.
Signify has led the transformation and decarbonization of the lighting sector, and recently announced its 2040 Climate Transition Plan, setting out its vision to reach net-zero by 2040.
The company has reduced GHG emissions across the full value chain by 50 percent since 2019 and continues to advocate for energy efficiency and an accelerated energy transition.
With the new partnership, comes a commitment from Signify to share knowledge and expertise to support Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team in developing its Climate Transition Plan.
Last month, a Koenigsegg Jesko was engulfed in flames in Greece. Fortunately, no casualties were reported. However, sadly, the car could not be salvaged.
This past Tuesday, the Swedish hypercar manufacturer announced that they had identified the cause of the fire, and they will replace a new car for the owner free of charge.
“The fuel tank, engine oil, and gearbox system remain in good condition even after the fire was successfully extinguished. These components were not affected by the fire,” said their CEO, Christian von Koenigsegg in a letter on Instagram.
“However, there was a hydraulic oil leak at the rear of the car on the road. We have examined the pressurized hydraulic system, which is the only system with this fluid.
“Upon closer inspection of the car, we also found that the pressurized hydraulic hose was damaged or leaking.
“This, along with the hydraulic oil spill on the road, indicates that it was the cause of the fire,” Christian said.
After the fire, Koenigsegg urged all Jesko owners not to drive their vehicles immediately.
Instead, the company will inspect the hydraulic lines for all delivered and in-production Jesko cars.
They will also release a software update next week that will immediately stop the hydraulic system if it detects any leaks.
A busy week for Koenigsegg. Recently, they announced that the Jesko Absolut broke the 0-400-0 km/h acceleration record and several other records.
THE policy paper for the rationalization of subsidies for RON95 petrol has not yet been brought to the cabinet for implementation. This was stated by the Prime Minister, Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
He mentioned that the re-targeting of subsidies for this purpose would not be implemented in the near future.
“There is no policy paper that can lead us to implement it (the rationalization of RON95 subsidies) quickly. There have been studies all along, but we think it’s better to first observe the steps taken regarding electricity and diesel subsidies,” he said in the Parliament yesterday.
He responded to an additional question from Ahmad Fadhli Shaari (PN-Pasir Mas) who wanted to know if the government intended to implement the re-targeting of RON95 petrol subsidies.
Anwar, however, stated that in his opinion, the re-targeting of RON95 petrol subsidies should have been implemented long ago, but he was aware of various constraints that made it difficult to reinstate the subsidies for the fuel.
“If you ask me, re-targeting RON95 subsidies should have been done a long time ago. But this is not easy, as the problem we face is that 3.8 million foreigners are using this oil, just as the wealthy are. This is something that is crucial and important for us to halt,” he added.
He also criticized the opposition’s statement for continuously “manipulating” the issue of re-targeting diesel subsidies, claiming that it burdens the people.
“Until now, there are still those who are ‘riding’ on the issue with various accusations of the government being oppressive and claiming that subsidies have been completely withdrawn.
“Is the re-targeting of these subsidies a wise decision for the economy? All (Members of Parliament) agree, even though they expressed disagreement during the campaign.
“When (the previous government) was in power, they also said that (re-targeting diesel subsidies) was necessary, but because they knew it would heat up the political temperature (it was not implemented).
“However, I acknowledge that the implementation aspect can be disputed. I accept this, but what we are hearing now is only the accusation of an oppressive government, cutting subsidies and repeating the campaign (in the past), today in power, tomorrow oil prices will drop,” he said.
THE Pahang state government is currently studying efforts to redevelop the defunct Pekan Speedway Circuit located near Taman Tasik Sultan Abu Bakar, Pekan, which has not been operational for several years.
This intention was expressed in collaboration with the Pahang State Youth and Sports Department and the Ministry of Youth and Sports (KBS).
Photo: Pahang Media
Pahang State Communication and Multimedia, Youth, Sports and Non-Governmental Organizations Exco, YB. Tuan Fadzli Mohamad Kamal stated that this effort is in line with the State Government’s aspiration to provide a platform for motorsport enthusiasts, especially among young people in Pahang.
“InshaAllah, the Pahang State Government, together with the Pahang State Youth and Sports Department, will collaborate with relevant parties including MAM, the Pekan District Office, Pekan Municipal Council (MPP), and KBS to ensure this aspiration is achieved. This is the State Government’s aspiration to support the interest of young people in motorsports, and based on the survey we conducted, the interest in this field is growing among young people, so it is time for the State Government to provide a suitable location to support this interest,” he said.
He made these remarks after a site visit to the Pekan Speedway Circuit in Pekan. The Pekan Speedway Circuit, which incurred an expenditure of RM3 million, was constructed from 2014 to 2017, with a track area of 400 meters in length and 40 meters in width. Therefore, discussions have been conducted to lengthen the track to enhance user safety criteria.
It is clear that integrated efforts are crucial to ensure that the Pekan Speedway Circuit can resume operations and attract young people interested in motorsports.
The Pekan Speedway Circuit also features another track that is more complex and technically equipped with a grandstand structure. This track has been used for Cub Prix events, karting races, drift competitions, and various other motorsport events.
It is hoped that the Pahang government will consider reviving this abandoned track as well.
One study found that about 30 percent of senior citizens aged 60 and above are still actively driving and potentially increasing the country’s road accident rate.
The study was conducted by the Road Safety Research Center, Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) in June last year. The majority of senior drivers were found to be driving alone with a frequency of at least once or twice a week, according to the study.
Head of the Road Safety Research Center, Faculty of Engineering UPM, Associate Professor Dr. Law Teik Hua, said that with increasing age, their risk of becoming victims or causes of accidents is higher.
“Based on our study focusing on the Peninsula by interviewing respondents in small towns and cities, it shows that many accidents occur outside urban areas. In urban areas, accidents may be slightly less common among senior drivers, unless in specific locations such as Kampung Pandan and Cheras where some are still driving.
Rural area situations
However, Teik Hua mentioned that in small towns or rural areas, most senior citizens are still actively driving, with some of them making journeys at least once a day back and forth.
“In small towns and rural areas, we found that at least 30 percent of senior citizens are still actively driving, with most of them using motorcycles. There are many factors that encourage them to keep driving, and one of them is psychology, as some feel capable of driving.
“This is related to their ego even though they are aware of their advanced age and face various physical constraints, such as slow movements, blurred vision especially at night or during rain, impaired hearing, and declining health compared to before.
“Therefore, with a high percentage of senior citizens still driving, it is not surprising that this group is involved in many accidents. Moreover, many senior citizens are also categorized as persons with disabilities (PWD), making them more prone to accidents,” he said.
Solution from the authorities?
Furthermore, although many accidents involving senior citizens are a reality, they are not reported due to sympathy and reluctance to prolong cases. Moreover, he said, many accident cases also involve senior citizens that lead to fatalities, yet there is no truly proactive measure to address the issue.
As of now, there has been no government policy that is truly serious in addressing issues involving elderly drivers, and more worrisome, we are currently heading towards an aging nation. Commenting on whether the government should tighten the application or renewal of licenses for elderly drivers, Teik Hua said that it can only be done if the government is prepared with special alternative transportation facilities for senior drivers.
We at Engear have previously written last year urging the government and authorities to consider requiring the elderly to undergo regular health check-ups before renewing their driver’s licenses.
Furthermore, in September 2021, the Director of Traffic Investigation and Enforcement Department of the Royal Malaysian Police at that time, Datuk Azisman Alias, suggested that special conditions be imposed on driving license holders among the elderly before they are allowed to renew their documents.
He said that proposing to introduce such special conditions is for the purpose of ensuring the safety of the elderly themselves and other road users. This is because, according to him, the state of physical health is also one of the factors in accidents, with diseases such as Alzheimer’s and vision problems being faced by the elderly.
“We can see cases of driving against traffic becoming a trend, including cases involving elderly individuals aged 60 and above. This indirectly can lead to accidents on the road,” said Azisman. However, of course, this matter cannot be implemented suddenly. It needs to be supported by aspects such as good public transportation.
Road infrastructure also needs to be in good condition to allow the elderly to walk towards the nearest bus/LRT station, for example. In our opinion, it is still far for Malaysia to reach this level, but gradual steps can be taken. And it needs to start now. If not now, then when?
The Great Wall Motor (GWM) Tank 300 sales unit has now arrived at Port Klang, perhaps some of you who have placed orders will be receiving your cars early?
These images have been released by GWM Malaysia. According to them, the Tank 300 SUV is set to be launched in the middle of this month with deliveries to follow shortly thereafter.
We have also gotten a closer look at the GWM Tank 300 in several preview sessions including at the recent Malaysia Autoshow 2024.
The GWM Tank 300 is an SUV with a rugged appearance, a premium interior cabin, and an estimated price of around RM250,000.
As stated previously, the GWM Tank 300 for the Malaysian market is likely to be powered by a 2.0-liter turbo petrol 4-cylinder engine with an output of 217hp and 380Nm of torque.
This engine is paired with an 8-speed automatic gearbox and a part-time all-wheel-drive system with 2H, 4H, and 4L functions. This system also comes complete with front and rear differential locks.
Interesting enough, the GWM Tank 300 has a ‘tank turn’ feature. When activated, it locks the inner rear wheels to allow the SUV to make tight turns in narrow spaces. This movement is similar to tracked vehicles like tanks and excavators.
As seen, this SUV embodies a classic 4×4 look with a boxy design and thick side cladding. The front end features round LED headlights, while fog lights are integrated into the bumper.
At the rear, there is a spare tire mounted outside the side-hinged rear door, reminiscent of classic Jeeps. The Tank 300 comes equipped with 18-inch rims and Michelin Primacy SUV tires.
Inside, you’ll notice that the interior is quite premium, possibly inspired by the Mercedes G-Class. With a vertical dashboard, turbine air vents, a passenger-side grab handle, and a pair of 12.3-inch screens each.
According to GWM, the first 300 purchasers of this SUV will receive a complimentary five-year maintenance package OR 100,000km.
The initial owners will also receive a lifetime engine and gearbox warranty, without any mileage restrictions.
The Polestar 3 has been launched in the European market, and the manufacturer has now confirmed that they will offer a single electric motor version that is more affordable.
This variant will be an addition to the Long Range Dual Motor and Long Range Dual Motor Performance models, both of which are all-wheel-drive models. The new RWD single electric motor variant will provide lower power but potentially more driving range.
With only one motor at the rear, the Polestar 3 RWD has 295hp and 490Nm of torque, which is lower compared to the 483hp of the regular Dual Motor and 510hp of the Dual Motor Performance. The supplied battery remains the same, at 107kWh with DC charging capability at a rate of 250kW.
Official figures are not yet available, but Polestar has stated that this single motor version can be driven over 640km, exceeding the range of the dual motor models.
Despite having ‘only’ one motor, the features and equipment on this RWD model are similar to the dual motor models. There are six color options, four wheel choices including a new 21-inch alloy set, and several cabin trims available.
The price is also lower compared to the dual motor models. It will be interesting to see the comparison between this Polestar 3 RWD and the Tesla Model Y RWD Single Motor.
The B66 Batang Kali-Genting Highlands road which was closed following a landslide tragedy that claimed 31 lives in December 2022, will be reopened today.
The District Public Works Department (JKR) of Hulu Selangor announced that the route will be open to all road users at 3 PM. In December 2022, the Ministry of Works announced that the Batang Kali-Genting Highlands road was expected to be closed for a year to allow for repair works on the slopes and roads in the landslide incident area.
Last April, Deputy Minister of Works, Datuk Seri Ahmad Maslan, was reported to have said that the repair project, involving approximately RM19 million in costs, had reached 86 percent completion, with remaining works including slope reinforcement and wall construction.
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