All posts by Amirul Hazmi

Always hoping that ICE and manual transmissions stay relevant and don’t disappear. It’s more about balance than just power.
NEWS

Mercedes GLA250 4Matic AMG Line – New mild hybrid system, 0-100 in 6.8s, RM296k

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After several months of introducing the GLA200 facelift, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia (MBM) has now also launched the GLA250 4Matic AMG Line. It is a more powerful version with a sportier design.

As usual, compared to the GLA200 which is equipped with a Renault 1.3-liter turbo engine, this GLA250 variant is powered by a Mercedes engine – a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder turbo with an output of 224PS and 350Nm of torque. This output is transmitted to all wheels through an 8-speed dual-clutch gearbox and the 4Matic traction system.

What’s new is that the GLA250 also features a mild-hybrid system consisting of a 48-volt belt starter generator (BSG), contributing to an additional 14PS and 150Nm of power.

As a result, the acceleration performance from 0-100 is 6.8 seconds, one second faster than the GLA200. The maximum speed is 240km/h.

In terms of exterior features, this new Mercedes GLA250 4Matic comes with a sporty AMG bumper, LED High-Performance headlights with new graphics, new taillights, a diffuser, and 19-inch 5-spoke AMG rims. It also includes sport brakes with perforated discs.

Other standard features include roof rails, sports suspension, keyless entry, single-zone air conditioning, 64-color ambient lighting, wireless Qi charging, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, a reverse camera, and power-operated tailgate.

The interior features a new steering wheel with touch controls, an updated MBUX system with a 10.25-inch screen, and a 10.25-inch instrument display.

AMG touches on the GLA250 include sports seats, Artico leather upholstery with Microcut, brushed aluminum trim, alloy pedals, black headliner, and illuminated side sills.

Safety features include Autonomous Emergency Braking, Blind Spot Monitoring, Door Opening Warning, and Park Assist.

The Mercedes GLA250 4Matic AMG Line is offered at a price of RM295,888 without insurance. This includes a four-year unlimited mileage warranty.

NEWS

Man drives Toyota Alphard with Polite Car lettering so that people notice him and slow down

FROM afar, this Toyota Alphard appears to be a police patrol car or an ambulance, but upon closer inspection, the inscription on its body reads “POLITE” instead of “POLICE.”

This MPV in Singapore has attracted the attention of netizens and has been shared on the SG Road Vigilante Facebook page.

Scanning the QR code on the Alphard’s body will lead you to an ice cream shop’s website. Netizens have various comments and opinions in the comment section.

Some think it’s an interesting idea, while others say it’s “misleading” because it resembles an authority vehicle.

The owner, Goh Yong Wei, told The Straits Times that he has decorated his Toyota Alphard since last May, and road users often slow down their vehicles to give way.

He said, “As a driver and motorbike rider in Singapore, I find that the driving culture here is not gracious, especially during peak hours.

“I want to be noticed, I want the attention, I want people to see me and slow down to avoid a collision.”

Goh said he has been involved in more than 10 car and motorcycle accidents over the past four years, and the decals on this Alphard help him avoid accidents.

“I feel safer, and find it easier to drive around now. A lot of people in their cars giggle and show me a thumbs up. It makes for a very positive driving experience for me.”

However, the Singapore Police said they have received reports regarding this matter, and it is currently under investigation.

NEWS

Volvo S60 is no longer on sale in US, to make way for all-new EX90

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THE Volvo S60 in America has become a quiet alternative to the BMW 3-Series and Mercedes-Benz C-Class. Now, this executive sedan has reached the end of its life.

Volvo has confirmed that sales of the S60 will be discontinued in the United States (US) after 24 years, spanning three generations.

“After five years Volvo Cars is ending production of the S60 sedan in Ridgeville, South Carolina at the end of June 2024 for the US and some other markets to focus on the all-new EX90,” a Volvo spokesperson told Motor1.

The third-generation Volvo S60 was introduced as a 2019 model and manufactured in the South Carolina facility.

Several variants were offered throughout production, from the base T5 version with 252hp to the high-performance Polestar Engineered model.

Compared to its competitors, Volvo S60 sales have been relatively lackluster in the US. Its sales have never exceeded 20,000 units per year, averaging around 10,000 to 12,000 units annually.

In comparison, BMW and Mercedes each sold 33,000 units of the 3-Series and C-Class respectively last year.

At the same time, the discontinuation of the Volvo S60 is expected to pave the way for more profits for Volvo when they introduce the EX90 later.

The EX90 is Volvo’s first fully electric (EV) three-row SUV, equipped with a 111kWh battery delivering 496hp and a driving range of up to 480km.

NEWS

Tesla Supercharger now in Kuantan, first in East Coast

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TESLA has opened and activated a Supercharger station in Kuantan, Pahang. Located on the premises of the Kuantan City Council (MBK), it is the first Tesla Supercharger on the east coast of Peninsular Malaysia.

According to Josh KY Chua, who shared some pictures on the Facebook’s Warga Kuantan page, the station can be used by the public 24 hours a day.

There are four charging bays at this location. Similar to other Supercharger stations throughout the country, the new station in Kuantan also has a charging rate of RM1.25 per kWh.

There is also an idle fee of RM4.00 per minute if the station is full.

Although Tesla has started rolling out Supercharger V4 networks in Malaysia, the MBK station, however, is equipped with Supercharger V3 technology.

The launch of this new Supercharger station aligns with the announcement made by Tesla’s Regional Director, Isabel Fan, in March, stating that the Kuantan Supercharger would be operational by the end of the second quarter of this year.

Other locations for the second quarter include the first Supercharger in Penang located in Prai.

NEWS

Saudi Arabia began testing the autonomous flying taxi for pilgrims

THE first-ever electric air taxi service in the world will begin testing for transporting pilgrims between the holy sites of Mina, Muzdalifah, and Arafah this year.

The launch was officiated by the Minister of Transport and Logistics and Chairman of the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) Board of Directors Eng. Saleh Al-Jasser in Mecca.

The air taxi is a small commercial aircraft that operates short flights on demand. It is said to be the first of its kind in the world and is licensed by GACA.

The pilotless aircraft will be utilized during this year’s Hajj season, particularly for emergency services, as well as transporting goods and medical supplies to the pilgrims.

Meanwhile, the Ministry of Transport and Logistics is also working on enhancing smart mobility initiatives and developing laws and regulations to enable the use of modern technology while providing an experimental environment to advance the adoption of various future transportation technologies.

Previously, Saudi Arabian Airlines (Saudia) unveiled plans to operate flying taxis in the future to transport Hajj pilgrims between King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah and hotels in Mecca.

Saudia also intends to acquire around 100 aircraft for this service.

NEWS

Proton EMAS is a concept with 1.2-litre engine and 16.5kWh battery, displayed at 2010 Geneva Motor Show

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Last night, Proton launched the e.MAS, their sub-brand for fully electric vehicles (EVs) that will begin entering the market by the end of this year. As a generation that experienced the era of Friendster and Myspace, this reminds the writer of the Proton EMAS concept from more than a decade ago.

The Proton EMAS is a concept designed by the firm Italdesign Giugiaro. The name EMAS stands for Eco Mobility Advance Solution, which also obviously means “gold” in English. Eco Mobility Advance Solution also technically means that EMAS is designed for energy-efficient vehicle solutions.

Therefore, it is equipped with a 1.2-liter 3-cylinder engine that generates 20hp at 1,500rpm and 47hp at 3,500rpm. The torque is 107Nm at 2,500rpm. This engine, weighing only 56kg, is paired with a 16.5kWh battery pack and 370-volt battery cells, making the Proton EMAS a hybrid range extender.

The EMAS can accelerate from 0 to 96km/h in 14 seconds and reach a maximum speed of 169km/h. It can travel up to 563km per tank. The design of EMAS is based on the Toyota iQ platform, including the suspension and steering, but all other aspects are new from Proton. It has MacPherson suspension at the front and a torsion beam at the rear.

Proton first revealed the EMAS concept to the public at the 2010 Geneva Motor Show, one of the most prestigious automotive exhibitions in the world.

The Proton EMAS also comes in several variants. The standard EMAS is a 5-door version with four seats, while the EMAS3 is a 3-door with a 3+1 seating configuration. There is also the EMAS Country, with SUV styling and higher suspension. If you notice, the EMAS Country looks similar to the Iriz Active, doesn’t it? The writer believes the Iriz Active takes inspiration from the EMAS Country.

The writer still remembers reading and seeing this EMAS concept during university and truly hopes it becomes a reality model sold to the public. Perhaps the EMAS could be a competitor to the Myvi?

At the Geneva Motor Show, Proton’s then-CEO, Dato Syed Zainal, said, “The goal is to produce a global car for the world market.” According to him, there were only 17 to 24 months left before entering production, which should have started in 2012 or 2013.

However, the Proton EMAS never became a reality.

Do you still remember the Proton EMAS concept? The writer is sure that the Tiktok generation has never heard of it.

Photo source: Paultan.org and Wikipedia

NEWS

e.MAS: This is Proton’s EV sub-brand, first model to launch by end of 2024

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PROTON today introduced e.MAS as a sub-brand of their fully electric (EV) models. Before we proceed further, the pronunciation of e.MAS is “imas”, with the letter ‘e’ connected to the word ‘mas’. It stands for Electrifying Malaysia.

Proton also unveiled the e.MAS logo, featuring the display of a tiger’s head without confinement. According to Proton, it aligns with the current design trend for EV brands that lean towards cleaner and less complicated graphics.

“The unveiling of the e.MAS brand and logo today marks a significant step forward in Proton’s journey towards launching our own EV model,” said Dr Li Chunrong, Chief Executive Officer, Proton.

“We are aware that as a company tied to the industrialisation of Malaysia, we have a responsibility to provide mobility solutions relevant and within reach of all Malaysians.

“This is why Proton has been deliberate in its approach towards EVs, developing our knowledge base step by step to ensure we have a thorough understanding of the products, technology and user concerns before sales even begin,” he added.

Also announced at this event is the appointment of the first 17 Proton EV dealers who have signed their agreements earlier today.

“As Malaysia’s first automotive brand it is important for Proton to invest in infrastructure to offer a full range of services to EV buyers, instead of just selling product.

“Therefore, when Proton e.MAS models go on sale, customers can be reassured their every need will be taken care of just like it would be for buyers of the current Proton range,” added Dr Li Chunrong.

Proton also shared with the media practitioners that when the cooperation with Geely began in 2017, plans were made to introduce Proton EV models.

Despite delays during the pandemic, activities resumed with the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between Proton and smart on January 19, 2022.

This was followed by the signing of the General Distribution Agreement (GDA) between the two parties on August 18, and the establishment of PRO-NET on September 9 to oversee sales and distribution of smart vehicles and future EV offerings from Proton.

The next step was to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Gentari in October to collaborate on establishing charging infrastructure.

This was followed by sending 16 engineers to China in December 2022 for On-Job Training (OJT) in EVs and related fields such as charging and servicing.

In 2023, Proton appointed dealers for smart and recruited staff from various industries to strengthen the workforce to manage the brand.

Commenting on the new EV brand, Dr. Li Chunrong added, “The e.MAS brand and its products are an extension of Proton’s three core values: innovative technology, reliability, and international standards. This is the next step in the company’s evolution, and in the coming months, we will make new announcements to build brand recognition and product promotion ahead of the launch of the first Proton e.MAS EV in December this year.”

NEWS

ZF wants to fit screen on steering wheels

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Vehicle manufacturers today are placing increasing numbers of screens in their cars, some with up to three or four screens.

This time, ZF will ‘join in’ on the addition of screens in vehicles. The latest design, called ZF Lifetec, will have a screen on the steering wheel. The airbag is retained but it does not deploy from the center, instead from the top of the steering wheel.

In this way, it will provide space in the middle of the steering wheel for a ‘smartphone-like display’, says ZF. The company is considering placing the screen in the center or multiple displays.

This provides more freedom for manufacturers to design steering wheels without compromising safety.

The team behind this project explains that it doesn’t necessarily have to be a full screen in the steering wheel area. It could also be a mixed configuration like several physical buttons.

The space in the middle of the steering wheel also allows engineers to place additional sensors in cars equipped with autonomous driving systems. Such sensors can determine whether you are paying attention to driving or not.

What if an accident occurs when our hands are at the 12 o’clock position? Ideally, our hands should be at 9 and 3 or 10 and 2.

Some argue that we are not Formula One drivers who need to adjust various settings on the steering wheel while driving. Others say that engineers should focus on other aspects rather than redesigning the steering wheel.

With the instrument display in front of the steering wheel and infotainment on the center console, it seems like we already have plenty of screens. What do you think of this?

NEWS

School bus not affected by diesel hike, operators have no reason to raise fare rate – Minister

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THE Ministry of Transport describes the increase in school bus fares as unwarranted, considering that the Subsidized Diesel Control System (SKDS) 1.0 for land public transport vehicles remains at a price of RM1.88 per liter.
The Minister, Anthony Loke, emphasized that this decision also applies to express bus operators who cannot arbitrarily raise fare rates as such actions require approval from the Land Public Transport Agency (APAD).
“This should not happen because this diesel subsidy is still being given to express bus and school bus operators. This means they are not affected by diesel price hikes as they are already receiving subsidies and there is no change in that aspect. So why are they motivated to raise prices if the issue of diesel (price hikes) is being used as a reason to raise prices,” he told reporters yesterday.
Loke suggested that although the government does not control school bus fare rates, operators should hold discussions with the Parent-Teacher Association (PIBG), with the ministry ready to assist from various angles to ease the burden on those involved.
“We encourage discussions between operators and PIBG… I know there are constraints and challenges they face, and we try to help from various perspectives to ease their burden,” he said.
Previously, there were rumors of possible fare increases for express buses, school buses, and excursion buses following the announcement of the diesel price hike in the Peninsula from RM2.15 per liter to RM3.35, which took effect two days ago.
NEWS

Lotus Emeya broke DC charging record, 10 to 80 percent in just 14 minutes

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Announced officially last year, the Lotus Emeya is a powerful electric hyper-GT intended to challenge fast electric sedans such as the Tesla Model S, Porsche Taycan, and Audi e-Tron GT.

With twin electric motors producing 905 hp/984 Nm, the Emeya is capable of accelerating from 0-100 km/h in just 2.8 seconds.

Did you know that not only is the Emeya swift in acceleration, but this hyper-GT is also capable of offering the fastest DC charging rate?

Based on tests conducted by the global consulting firm P3 Group, the Lotus Emeya set a record for the fastest 10-80 percent battery charging time, achieving it in just 14 minutes when using a 400 kW DC charger.

This is an impressive feat, as the Lotus Emeya managed to outperform leading EV models such as the Mercedes-Benz EQS, BMW i7, Tesla Model Y, Genesis G80, Xpeng G9, Kia EV9, Hyundai Ioniq 6, Nio ET5, and BYD Atto 3.

The P3 Group report also found that the Emeya is capable of reaching a peak charging power of 402 kW, with an average charging power of around 331 kW during the 10-80 percent charging period.

Coupled with an energy consumption rate of 18.7 kWh/100 km, the Lotus Emeya can offer a range of 310 km after just a 10-minute charging session—a time frame nearly equivalent to refueling a gasoline-powered car at a petrol station.

According to Lotus, the Emeya utilizes a cell-to-back battery structure, containing 20 percent more cell content that can be packed into the same space compared to a standard module design.

As standard, the 102 kWh battery pack provided with the Emeya allows the sedan to travel up to 600 km on a single full charge.

Similar to the Eletre, the Lotus Emeya also features an active aerodynamic system to reduce drag and at the same time acts as a cooling system for the battery and brakes.

NEWS

Diesel subsidy: Gov needs to explore cheaper alternatives for replacement

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Premier of Sarawak, Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, suggested that the federal government should seek and explore cheap and sustainable alternative energy sources to replace the use of diesel throughout Malaysia.

He said that this long-term effort would also eliminate the need for the diesel subsidy borne by the country.

Abang Johari. Photo by: Malay Mail

“If people still use diesel and ask for subsidies, when the prices go up, they will ask for more… so why not have alternative energy so there won’t be a need to use diesel,” he said in a press conference yesterday.

Abang Johari said, for example, the government could explore the use of emerging energy sources like hydrogen, which is being actively implemented by the Sarawak government.

On Sunday, Second Finance Minister, Datuk Seri Amir Hamzah Azizan, announced that the price of diesel at all retail stations in Peninsular Malaysia was set at RM3.35 per liter, the market price without subsidies, starting from 12.01 am on Monday.

Under “Budi Madani,” a cash assistance of RM200 per month is provided to private diesel vehicle owners, small-scale farmers, and small-scale commodity growers.

Registration for Budi Madani opened on May 28 following the discontinuation of diesel subsidies, and 30,000 diesel vehicle owners will receive the assistance starting today.

NEWS

This radio-controlled Volvo FH16 truck will make you drool for its details

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TAMIYA is an expert in producing radio-controlled vehicle models (RC) with intricate details like scale models for decoration. The latest model from their 1/14 scale truck series is the Volvo FH16 Globetrotter XL 750 4×2.

The actual truck, which has a 16.1-liter 6-cylinder turbo in-line engine with 750hp, has been recreated as an RC model with a realistic body. The chassis features various iron components and a three-speed gearbox.

The FH16 model measures 462mm in length, 193mm in width, and 309mm in height, weighing approximately 3.5kg. It is also equipped with an aluminum shock absorber with leaf springs.

Details on the cab include an air deflector, stainless steel grille, LED headlights with fog lights, antenna, roof LED light set, side mirrors, battery box, air tank, and a coupler for trailer connection.

For even more realism, you can get the Tamiya Multi-Function Control Unit (sold separately) that offers sound, lights, and vibrations. The digital sound is recorded from the actual truck, including air horn and gear shifting sounds. Furthermore, all light operations, signals, including 3-speed gear shifting, can also be controlled remotely.

The RC model Volvo FH16 Globetrotter can be found at Tamiya stores and official distributors worldwide.

NEWS

MRL inks MoU with Perodua, Kuantan Port for Potential ECRL Freight Transportation Services

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Perusahaan Otomobil Kedua Sdn Bhd (Perodua) has signed two memoranda of understanding (MOU) with Malaysia Rail Link Sdn Bhd (MRL) and Kuantan Port Consortium Sdn Bhd (Kuantan Port) respectively, signalling potential long-term collaborations for the East Coast Rail Link’s (ECRL) freight transportation services which will come on stream by January 2027.

The formalisation of the MoU between MRL and Perodua as well as between MRL and Kuantan Port is also poised to spur various industry players to switch the movement of cargo from road to rail as the 665-km ECRL network will facilitate seamless transportation between the east and west coasts of Peninsular Malaysia.

The MoU between MRL and Perodua will explore the possibility of transporting its products to the East Coast of Peninsular Malaysia to supplement the compact car maker’s growing need for logistical support.

“The inking MoU has significant meaning for MRL as we unlock ECRL’s value, not just as a viable transportation for the public but also a reliable logistic service for local and international businesses,” said MRL Chief Executive Officer, Dato’ Sri Darwis Abdul Razak.

He added, “The ECRL serves as a key enabler in enhancing regional connectivity and economic development, underpinned by its “landbridge” connecting Kuantan Port wharf to the wharves at Northport and Westports in Port Klang. This crucial ‘last-mile’ connectivity between Kuantan Port and Port Klang will streamline the transfer of goods between ports and address the issue of double-handling of cargo”.

Perodua President and Chief Executive Officer, Dato’ Sri Zainal Abidin Ahmad said, “We are looking to diversify the way we transport our products, and ECRL is a viable option to this need. This MoU will let us explore in detail all opportunities for both parties.”

“The MoU with MRL and Perodua marks a pivotal step in optimising our logistics network. Leveraging the ECRL, Kuantan Port aims to enhance connectivity and efficiency, offer competitive logistics costs and improve delivery times,” said Mr. Lee Chun Fai, Chairman of Kuantan Port and Group CEO & Managing Director of IJM Corporation Berhad.

“This strategic collaboration will enhance our logistics capabilities, establish Kuantan Port as a key gateway to the East and strengthen trade links within the region. It will facilitate smoother goods movement, support the economic development of the East Coast, and drive significant economic benefits, including job creation and enhanced trade opportunities,” he added.

MRL Chief Executive Officer, Dato’ Sri Darwis Abdul Razak, signed the MoU on behalf of the company while Perodua was represented by its President & Chief Executive Officer, Dato’ Sri Zainal Abidin Ahmad, and Kuantan Port by Mr. Lee Chun Fai, Chairman of Kuantan Port and Group CEO & Managing Director of IJM Corporation Berhad.

Today’s MoU Signing and Exchange Ceremony was witnessed by Minister of Transport, YB Loke Siew Fook, at InterContinental Kuala Lumpur.

MRL is the project owner of the 665-km ECRL will traverse through the East Coast states of Kelantan, Terengganu, and Pahang before linking the Klang Valley on the West Coast.

The ECRL rail alignment from Kota Bharu to Gombak Integrated Terminal is expected to be completed by December 2026 and operational by January 2027.

Its alignment between Gombak and Port Klang is scheduled for completion in December 2027, with full operations to commence from January 2028 onwards.

NEWS

VW wants to use part of its EV budget for development of combustion engines

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IT is safe to say that the transition towards full electric (EV) is not progressing as some manufacturers expected. Several manufacturers have delayed their electrification goals.

Just last year, Volkswagen projected that EVs would account for up to 80 percent of vehicle sales in Europe by the end of this decade. However, the lukewarm reception of their ID models has led VW to reassess their strategy.

Of the 180 billion Euros (RM914 billion) budget allocated in 2023 for new-generation EVs, the German manufacturer will now use one-third of it for the development of combustion engines.

This announcement came from Arn Antlitz, Chief Financial Officer and Chief Operating Officer at Volkswagen Group. “The company aims to spend approximately 60 billion Euros (RM304 billion) to ensure our combustion cars remain competitive.”

He added, “The future is electric, but the past has not yet ended.”

Last year, VW CEO Thomas Schäfer referred to ICE as “old technology” in the context of e-fuel. He stated that synthetic fuels were just “unnecessary noise,” even though Porsche, also part of the same group, is actively involved in synthetic fuels at its plant in Chile.

Another premium brand under VW is also researching how sustainable fuels can evolve. Bugatti plans to build fuel stations that can be installed at owners’ homes and filled with synthetic fuels.

Lamborghini believes combustion engines can be saved by making them run on fuels other than fossil oil. Bentley is also exploring fuels with almost zero carbon emissions.

It is clear that more car manufacturers are reassessing their EV strategies as consumers are not yet ready to let go of ICE engines.

Manufacturers are somewhat aggressive as emission standards become stricter, necessitating investment in cleaner-running petrol engines. At the same time, the influx of EVs from China is also concerning major manufacturers.

NEWS

Unsubsidized diesel price is RM3.35 beginning today (June 10)

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THE government has set the retail price of diesel fuel at RM3.35 per liter starting from midnight tonight (June 10, 2024).

According to the Second Finance Minister, YB Senator Datuk Seri Amir Hamzah Azizan, the new price will be enforced at all petrol stations across Peninsular Malaysia. The retail price of diesel fuel in Sabah, Sarawak, and Labuan will remain at RM2.15 per liter.

Through the implementation of diesel subsidy targeting, the government has set the diesel prices for eligible sectors as follows:

  • Subsidized Diesel Control System (SKDS) 2.0 using fleet card method for logistic vehicles, set at RM2.15 per liter
  • Subsidized Diesel Control System (SKDS) 1.0 for public land transport vehicles including school buses, express buses, ambulances, and fire engines at RM1.88 per liter
  • Subsidized diesel for fishermen remains at RM1.65 per liter

The subsidy targeting is introduced in the form of cash assistance through the following initiatives:

  • Individual BUDI Cash Assistance of RM200 per month for citizens who own private diesel vehicles
  • Agri-Commodity BUDI Cash Assistance of RM200 per month for small-scale farmers and commodity smallholders

It is understood that the first group of over 30,000 recipients will benefit from Individual BUDI and Agri-Commodity BUDI assistance starting tomorrow (June 10, 2024).

NEWS

2024 Ford Mustang recalled over potential brake hose failure

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Ford is carrying out a recall for the 2024 Mustang due to potential fluid leaks in the clutch assembly, which may hinder the manual model from shifting gears.

Yes, this means only the manual version of the Ford Mustang is affected by this recall. A total of 1,861 units are potentially lacking a specific seal or have been improperly installed. This seal connects the clutch hose to the firewall.

If the hose comes into contact with exhaust components, it could leak clutch fluid. If this occurs under the hood near a heat source, the fluid could also vaporize and lead to a fire, according to the recall report.

Drivers may experience difficulty shifting gears, and the engine may stutter, potentially leading to accidents.

Ford first identified this issue on April 30, 2024, when investigating two reports of engine compartment fires in manual models. Ford’s Critical Concern Review Group examined both vehicles and identified the root cause.

Ford stated that they were aware of the potential fire or smoke reports, but no injuries or accidents related to this issue have been reported.

Ford will begin contacting owners on June 17. They will ask owners to bring their Mustangs to a nearby dealer, where technicians will inspect and repair the relevant components if necessary.

NEWS

This 993 Porsche 911 is packed with an actual Cosworth F1 engine, making 625hp

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LANZANTE returns with yet another 930 Turbo project. This time, the TAG Championship project is lighter and more powerful than before.

The latest restomod project from the UK company will only produce three 911 units with F1 engines, each representing three F1 victories by McLaren in the 1980s.

Each 930 Turbo will be fitted with a 1.5-liter twin-turbo V6 TAG TTE P01 engine. The F1 engine has been re-tuned by Cosworth with upgraded components such as pistons, valves, and camshafts.

It also receives lighter titanium turbos, certified by McLaren. Additionally, it is equipped with a new airbox, improved cooling, and a more robust exhaust system.

To control power delivery optimally, the engine is managed by a new ECU from Cosworth, providing 625hp and capable of revving up to 10,250rpm.

Power will be transmitted to the rear wheels through the original 993 gearbox with six speeds, but with custom ratios. This allows the 911 restomod to reach speeds of 320km/h.

Meanwhile, the brake system is provided by carbon-ceramic discs with four pistons at the front and rear. The wheels are 18-inch magnesium rims wrapped in Michelin Pilot Sport 4 tires.

Not satisfied with just a powerful engine, Lanzante has also ‘shed’ weight from this 911. They have replaced original components such as the hood, doors, spoiler, roof, bumpers, and front splitter with carbon fiber. It is now 430kg lighter than the original.

The interior has also been put on a diet. No more power windows and mirrors. However, other comfort aspects are not neglected, as there is a lightweight air conditioning system. The seats are also lightweight Recaros with a six-point harness.

No price has been disclosed, but with a project of only three restomod units with race-spec components, it certainly won’t be cheap.

NEWS

2026 Honda Prelude: Here’s the latest details we know!

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The HONDA Prelude made a surprising appearance at last year’s Tokyo Motor Show. According to Honda, the coupe will become a reality, further fueling speculation among fans and automotive enthusiasts.

Here are some details that we know. Let’s take a look!

Not so sporty

The new generation Honda Prelude may not be as sporty as expected. Instead, it will be powered by a hybrid engine. The output will be around 200hp. Honda’s chief engineer, Tomoyuki Yamagami, stated that this new Prelude “will not be the sportiest or the most agile car.”

What’s it going to be called?

This sports coupe will continue to use the name Prelude. Honda has used this name for its two-door sports coupe model since 1978 until 2001.

This new Prelude will replace the Civic Coupe and Accord Coupe. It will also be one of the earliest models for Honda’s upcoming EV.

Is it attractive?

The concept model in this image provides a clear picture of Honda’s comeback in the two-door coupe segment. If we look at the history, such as the Civic model, it doesn’t stray far from the concept model. So, we can expect the same for this Prelude.

This concept model features a classic long front hood and a short rear end. The front grille is flanked by slim headlights, while the rear lights are elongated bar-type lights located under the black spoiler.

As usual, Honda’s behavior does not reveal the interior of their cars. The same goes for this Prelude; its mirrors are tinted. We imagine its cabin to have a dashboard similar to the Civic FE.

What engine will it use?

As mentioned earlier, the new Prelude will be a hybrid model. Honda confirmed that the coupe will be equipped with a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine, similar to the Civic e:HEV RS, but with the addition of two electric motors.

When will it be available for sale?

Honda is expected to release this model in mid to late 2025, so some markets label this model as the Prelude 2026. There is still time to save money!

How much will it cost?

Speaking of money, how much will it cost? According to international media reports, Honda aims to position the Prelude as a more premium offering compared to the Civic and Toyota GR86.

The most expensive Civic in Malaysia is priced at RM167,900 for the e:HEV RS, while the Toyota GR86 is priced at nearly RM300,000. We suspect that the Honda Prelude will be priced between RM290,000 and RM350,000.

What do you think of the Prelude so far, interesting? Or is it better to add a little more and just go for the Civic Type R FL5?

NEWS

Chery officiates new 3S centre in Nilai, Negeri Sembilan

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Chery Auto Malaysia is proud to introduce a new Chery showroom and service centre in Negeri Sembilan, owned and operated by dealer-partner SS Mobile Sdn Bhd.

Situated at PT 10848, Jalan Desa Cempaka, Taman Desa Cempaka, 71800 Nilai, Negri Sembilan the new 3S centre spans 310 square meters, offering customers a comprehensive experience in vehicle viewing, customer service, and maintenance.

Customers can view the full fleet of Chery vehicles in the showroom, and experience the customer lounge, service centre and workshop. The service centre boasts adequate service bays staffed by trained Chery technicians.

“With the opening of the Chery Nilai dealership, we can now better serve customers in Negeri Sembilan. Customers who previously had to travel from Nilai to Seremban for Chery vehicle services will no longer need to make that journey,” said Soon Boon Ping, Network Director of Chery Auto Malaysia who officiated the Chery Nilai dealership together with Dato’ Johnny Chan, Chief Operating Officer of SS Mobile Sdn Bhd.

The showroom is open daily – from 9am to 6pm (Monday – Sunday and Public Holidays). While the service centre is open from 9am to 6pm (Monday – Friday) and from 9am to 1pm (Saturday); closed on Sundays and Public Holidays.

NEWS

Toyota will revive the legendary Celica name – 2.0L turbo, 400hp, GR-Four AWD

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EVEN with the existing lineup of sports car models (GR Supra, GR Yaris, GR Corolla & GR86), Toyota Gazoo Racing plans to revive some iconic names that once dominated the world. These include the Toyota MR2/MRS and Toyota Starlet.

The latest report from Japan reveals that Toyota intends to resurrect the Celica name as one of the high-performance models under the Gazoo Racing brand.

Unlike the rumors circulating last year, Toyota aims to take a more traditional approach, with the Celica re-emerging as a GR model paired with a 2.0L inline-four-cylinder engine producing 400 hp.

The Japanese publication also disclosed that the development of the high-performance engine had actually begun several years ago and would be fully ready before it is announced by Akio Toyoda at the 2024 Tokyo Auto Salon.

With the combination of the AWD GR-Four drive system, it is a fitting step to revive the spirit of the Celica GT-Four while simultaneously paying homage to the success of previous Celica models in rallying.

Best Car Web predicts that the new Celica model will be revealed as early as January next year at the 2025 Tokyo Auto Salon. In addition to the Celica, Toyota is reportedly developing a hot hatch version of the Starlet designed as a rally-focused vehicle in the Rally4 WRC class.

Unlike the more comprehensive and powerful GR Yaris, this ‘GR Starlet’ will utilize a smaller-displacement (1.3-liter) turbocharged inline-three-cylinder engine and a more compact front-wheel-drive system.

The same platform will also be used by Toyota for another entry-level rear-wheel-drive sports car model, the S-FR, which is said to be capable of generating up to 150 PS and 220 Nm of torque.