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

Beijing Motor Show 2024: Jaecoo J7 PHEV previewed – 347PS, 525Nm!

IF you have been following the developments in the automotive industry in Malaysia, you would know that the Jaecoo J7 has been unveiled and its bookings have been opened. It is expected to be offered at a price range of RM150k to RM160k.

Currently, the sub-brand under Chery has also introduced the PHEV (plug-in hybrid) version, showcased at the Auto China 2024 in Beijing. It looks almost similar to the petrol version but certainly has some differences in specifications.

It is powered by a 1.5-liter turbo TGDi petrol engine, said to be a specific version for the hybrid. This engine is paired with a Dedicated Hybrid Transmission (DHT) and an electric motor in the front, providing the J7 PHEV with a total output of 347PS and 525Nm of torque. In comparison, the regular Jaecoo J7 has a 1.6-liter TGDi engine with 197PS and 290Nm of torque.

The J7 PHEV can also be driven in EV mode for up to 88km. Its fuel consumption is as low as 4.9 liters/100km. According to Jaecoo, this gives the J7 PHEV the capability to drive up to 1,200km per tank.

Interestingly, the J7 PHEV can be charged using DC. Although the charging duration has not been disclosed, it can definitely be done in a short period of time.

A feature of the J7 PHEV is the V2L function, which is the ability to charge external devices. This function is also found in the Chery Omoda E5.

In terms of exterior appearance, the Jaecoo J7 PHEV can be distinguished by its 19-inch aero rims, the charging port cover flap on the right side, and the absence of exhaust at the back. A standard feature is also the retractable door handle.

It is yet to be confirmed whether the Jaecoo J7 PHEV will be launched in Malaysia, but we believe it will certainly provide an interesting option for us. What are your thoughts on the specifications of the J7 PHEV?

NEWS

Royal Enfield Bullet 350 introduced in Malaysia, from RM23,500

1 Comment

DIDI Group introduced the new Royal Enfield Bullet 350 for the Malaysian market. The iconic motorcycle, with a long-standing name in the history of the global motorcycling, has received approximately 10 percent entirely new components.

It is powered by a 349cc single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine, which also serves as the heart of the Meteor, Classic, and Hunter.

The Bullet 350 engine generates 20.2hp at 6,100rpm and 27Nm of torque at 4,000rpm. This engine is also equipped with a balancer shaft to reduce vibrations. The transmission is a 5-speed gearbox.

The 2024 Bullet 350 comes with a reinforced chassis for better handling and durability. The front fork is now 41mm in size, while the rear tire is wider.

The motorcycle uses a 100/90R19 tire at the front and a 120/80/R18 at the rear. The braking system consists of a 300mm disc at the front, while at the rear, you can choose between a disc or drum.

The Royal Enfield Bullet 350 also features a new seat, redesigned mudguard, 13-liter fuel tank, ‘tiger eyes’ headlight, LCD display, and a USB charging socket.

The Bullet 350 is offered with a Special Edition package, which includes two options: the Special Edition priced at RM23,500 and the Gold Edition priced at RM23,900.

The Special Edition comes in black or maroon, while the Gold Edition has a black tank with special matte and gloss finishes, complete with a 3D gold badge.

In the same event, Didi Group also introduced two new colors for the Super Meteor 650, namely Interstellar Grey and Astral Green. This vehicle is available at a price of RM37,900.

NEWS

Ducati aspires to make Thailand as export hub

Ducati Motor Holding, a leading Italian motorcycle manufacturer, aims to establish Thailand as a key export hub following the opening of a production plant in Rayong. This marks Ducati’s first assembly plant in Asia.

With an investment of 400 million Baht (RM51.6 million), the facility is capable of producing 10,000 motorcycles annually in its initial phase.

“Thailand is a crucial market for big or premium motorcycles, and we aspire to make Thailand our export base,” stated Claudio Domenicali, CEO of Ducati Motor Holding.

“We manufacture all Ducati models at the Rayong plant, ensuring that our products meet the high standards set by the company in Italy,” he added.

The company aims to export its production to the Asia-Pacific region. Its current primary markets outside of Asia include Italy, Germany, the UK, and the United States.

In Thailand, the high-performance motorcycle market is expected to grow, driven by the lifestyles of riders.

The Federation of Thai Industries (FTI) forecasts an overall sales of high-performance motorcycles to reach approximately 15,000 units in Thailand this year.

NEWS

Production and sales of cars in Malaysia for 2024 have decreased compared to 2023

1 Comment

The production and sales of vehicles in Malaysia have generally decreased for both the passenger and commercial vehicle segments.

Passenger vehicles

According to a report released by the Malaysian Automotive Association (MAA) today, the production of passenger vehicles for the month of March 2024 was 63,778 units, a decrease of 11 percent compared to 71,731 units in the same month last year.

Meanwhile, the sales of passenger vehicles in March 2024 were 64,760 units, down from 70,940 units in March 2023, representing a nine percent decrease.

The year-to-date production for 2024 has reached 199,199 units, a seven percent increase compared to 186,237 units from January to March 2023.

Overall year-to-date sales of passenger vehicles have also increased by seven percent, reaching 184,994 units compared to 171,964 units.

Commercial vehicles

On the other hand, in the commercial vehicle category, the production in March 2024 was only 3,145 units, a 28 percent decrease from 4,338 units in the same month in 2023.

Sales also decreased by 21 percent, with 6,292 units in March 2024 compared to 7,941 units in March 2023.

The year-to-date production of commercial vehicles has decreased by eight percent, with 11,232 units for the first three months of 2024 compared to 12,157 units in the previous year.

First quarter sales for 2024 have also decreased by 16 percent, with 17,251 units compared to 20,651 in 2023. MAA stated that the total industry volume (TIV) for March 2024 increased by 10 percent compared to February 2024.

This is attributed to manufacturers rushing to close their financial year by March 31, 2024, as well as promotional campaigns in conjunction with Hari Raya. MAA expects vehicle sales in April 2024 to be lower due to fewer working days as a result of the holiday season.

NEWS

The Mercedes-AMG GT63 S E Performance is the fastest model ever produced

1 Comment

WHILE the Mercedes-AMG GT63 S E Performance is a hybrid sports car, it is the fastest model ever released. Introducing the latest two-door performance coupe from Mercedes-Benz, and it makes hybrid technology anything but boring.

Instead, the hybrid system contributes to the car’s performance. The hybrid nature can be seen in the term “E Performance” in the car’s name.

The heart of the Mercedes-AMG GT63 S is a 4.0-liter V8 twin-turbo unit, combined with an electric motor. The V8 engine alone generates 603hp, but its combination with the electric motor provides a total output of 805hp.

What’s even more intriguing is the combined torque of 1,420Nm! This easily delivers a 0-100km/h acceleration in just 2.7 seconds, making it the fastest AMG model ever produced.

The electric system in the GT63 S E Performance has a capacity of 6.1kWh and can be charged using a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) system. The GT63 S can be driven in EV mode for a limited range, but its electric system remains focused on performance.

It is equipped with a 9-speed dual-clutch gearbox, delivering power to all wheels through the 4Matic+ system. In normal driving, the electric motor only sends power to the rear wheels, but when slip occurs, it can be shifted to the front.

The Mercedes-AMG GT63 S E Performance also comes with a rear-axle steering system, AMG Active Ride Control suspension, 6-piston ceramic composite brakes, and 20-inch wheels as standard.

You can also choose 21-inch wheels. In terms of appearance, it’s difficult to differentiate the E Performance version from the regular AMG GT63.

There are special badges at the rear, as well as a charging port cover. Additionally, the aerodynamic package has been updated specifically for the hybrid powertrain.

The cockpit and cabin also receive the standard Mercedes-AMG treatment. The price has not yet been announced, and this fastest Mercedes-AMG will start selling at the end of 2024.

NEWS

Tesla Cybertruck recalled due to potential accelerator pedal sticking

TESLA is conducting a recall for their electric pickup truck, the Cybertruck, due to a potential safety issue with the plastic pad above its accelerator pedal.

The company has identified a risk of the pad detaching and sticking to the trim when the pedal is pressed, posing a collision hazard.

The recall was announced by the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) today, in response to social media reports indicating that the pad on the EV pickup truck’s pedal was loose.

However, Cybertruck owners claim that pressing the brake while pressing the accelerator pedal would deactivate the accelerator input.

An official from the NHTSA stated in a report that “pressing the brake pedal will cut torque to the motor, including pressing both pedals, and if the brake pedal is continually depressed it will stop the vehicle just as rapidly as if the accelerator pedal were not depressed.”

The entire batch of Cybertrucks is affected by this recall, totaling 3,878 units manufactured between November 13th and April 4th. After the viral social media reports, Tesla reportedly halted the production of Cybertrucks.

The root cause of this issue is soap. Yes, soap! It was used to facilitate the adhesion of the pad to the accelerator pedal during the installation process. This was identified as an “unapproved change” in the installation process. Due to this soap, the pad did not adhere securely to the pedal, resulting in easy detachment.

To address this issue, Tesla will replace or repair the accelerator pedal at no cost. The trucks produced after April 17th have been equipped with new components and serial numbers. Any pending deliveries of Cybertrucks will have their pedals addressed before being handed over to customers.

NEWS

Mazda CX-80 arrives in Europe, three-row SUV with inline-six engine

Mazda has finally completed their offering of a new generation SUV through the launch of a model that offers a three-row seating arrangement – the Mazda CX-80.

This mid-size SUV is Mazda’s fourth model to utilize the Large Product Group’s rear-wheel-drive platform, following the models CX-60, CX-70, and CX-90.

Unlike the CX-70 (with two rows of seating) and CX-90 (with three rows of seating) models, which share similarities in terms of dimensions, the CX-80 introduces larger dimensions compared to the CX-60.

The Mazda CX-80 measures five meters in length, with a wheelbase of around three meters, compared to the CX-60, which has dimensions of 4,745 mm in length and a wheelbase of 2,870 mm.

The CX-80 can be distinguished by the longer rear passenger door and window dimensions, followed by more prominent chrome accents on the sides.

This latest Mazda SUV offers a three-row seating arrangement, with a capacity for six to seven passengers at a time. Buyers can opt for a regular second-row seat (3 individuals), or accommodate two individuals with captain’s chairs and a center console.

There is also a configuration with two seats, where the middle space is left empty without a console to facilitate movement to the back. To maximize cargo space, the two third-row seats can be folded flat.

For the European market, the Mazda CX-80 offers the same powertrain specifications as the CX-60 model, with the option of a mild hybrid diesel engine or a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) powertrain.

The base version comes with a 3.3-liter in-line six-cylinder diesel engine producing 251 hp and 550 Nm, coupled with the 48V M Hybrid Boost mild hybrid system, all-wheel drive, and an 8-speed automatic transmission.

The more powerful version features the e-Skyactiv PHEV powertrain, consisting of a 2.5-liter in-line four-cylinder engine, electric motor, 17.8 kWh battery pack, with a total power output of 323 hp and 500 Nm.

The Mazda CX-80 PHEV is capable of offering an emission-free range of up to 60 km, with 0-100 km/h acceleration in just 6.8 seconds. Due to its shared platform with the Mazda CX-60, the layout of the dashboard also resembles what is offered in the two-row seating SUV model.

In addition to the use of premium materials, the Mazda CX-80 also offers advanced infotainment system equipped with Alexa voice control, support for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a 12.3-inch digital cluster screen, Bose sound system, and power outlets in the cargo space.

As standard, the Mazda CX-80 offers a space of 258 liters, and can reach a capacity of up to 1,220 liters when the third-row seats are folded flat. Need more space? Just fold down the second-row seats, and you’ll get a cargo space of 1,971 liters.

Pre-sales for the Mazda CX-80 are expected to start in May, and it will be arriving at dealerships towards the autumn season of this year. Mazda is also expected to launch the CX-80 model in the Japanese and Australian markets towards the end of this year.

NEWS

2025 Nissan Qashqai receives facelift, fresher new looks

Nissan’s important model in Europe, the third-generation Qashqai, has just received a facelift update for the 2025 model, bringing a fresher look to its exterior appearance.

At first glance, the facelifted front end of the Nissan Qashqai reminds us of another crossover model produced by Nissan, namely the Ariya EV.

Compared to the previous model, Nissan has made changes to this area by removing the V-Motion chrome grille element, where the main grille structure has now increased in size and features a lattice design inspired by ancient Japanese military shields.

The graphic element of the daytime running lights (DRL) in the shape of an arrow is still retained but with a more ‘digital’ approach. The main headlamp units appear well concealed.

Regarding the rear, the changes are minimal, with the Qashqai showcasing different LED graphic light units, followed by a more sporty bumper.

As standard, the Qashqai comes with 18 to 19-inch wheel sets, while the new N-Design variant is equipped with 20-inch wheel sets.

Moving into the cabin, there is not much that has changed, except for the Android-based infotainment system that now offers Google Maps navigation and Google Assistant.

The Around View Monitor surveillance system now supports a three-dimensional display function, including an engine heads-up display (HUD) and a memory function for frequently used parking locations.

Unfortunately, there have been no changes made to the powertrain, where the Nissan Qashqai still retains the choice of a mild hybrid 1.3-liter engine (138 hp) or a 1.5-liter E-Power hybrid engine (187 hp).

The 2025 facelifted Nissan Qashqai is still being produced at the Nissan Sunderland plant in the UK and is expected to arrive in the European market in the near future.

NEWS

Op Selamat 22: Road accident and fatality numbers down

The Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) recorded a 1.41 percent decrease in road accident cases nationwide during the Op Selamat 22 period in conjunction with the Aidilfitri celebration from 8th to 13th April.

The Inspector-General of Police, Tan Sri Razarudin Husain, stated that the number of accident cases decreased by 8,862 cases compared to 8,989 cases last year.

“He also mentioned that fatal accident cases decreased by 10 percent with 105 cases compared to 117 cases last year, while the number of deaths also saw a six percent reduction with 119 deaths compared to 126 deaths the previous year,” he said.

Razarudin mentioned that motorcyclists and pillion riders still had the highest number of fatalities, with 79 deaths compared to 80 deaths recorded last year.

“According to studies, accidents occurred due to failure to control the vehicle leading to skidding due to fatigue and drowsiness, as well as not maintaining a safe driving distance between vehicles.

“I believe that the decrease in accident cases is a positive impact resulting from public awareness of the importance of road safety and prudent driving practices,” he added.

Furthermore, Razarudin stated that the Traffic Enforcement and Investigation Department (JSPT) recorded an increase in the number of summonses issued during Op Selamat 22, with a total of 114,467 summonses compared to 29,216 summonses issued during the previous Op Selamat, marking an increase of 85,251 summonses.

He also mentioned that the statistics of house break-in cases during this Op Selamat recorded 189 cases compared to 272 cases last year.

NEWS

Win a trip to Sweden worth of RM50,000 with a purchase of a new fully-electric Volvo

ARE you in the market for a new electric vehicle (EV)? How about trying out Volvo, where you might just stand a chance to win a trip to Sweden for two worth up to RM50,000!

Yes, this offer is made by Volvo Car Malaysia in conjunction with the Volvo Birthday Sale, as the Swedish brand celebrates its 97th birthday this month.

The Volvo Birthday Sale event will take place next week, from 26th to 28th April 2024 at Sentul Depot. It will also be held at selected Volvo dealers across the country, as well as in Sabah and Sarawak.

As mentioned earlier, the purchase of Volvo EV vehicles enables you to win a trip to the birthplace of Volvo in Gothenburg, Sweden, in addition to the opportunity to visit the recently opened World of Volvo experience center on the 14th of April.

During the Volvo Birthday Sale event, you can also enjoy a rebate of RM15,000 and other offers for the C40 and XC40 Recharge Pure Electric models.

The latest C40 Recharge Pure Electric has been updated for 2024, now offering an extended driving range of up to 550km (WLTP cycle), faster DC charging, pixel technology headlights, and a new Vapour Grey color.

Other Volvo models will also be showcased at this event, including the PHEV lineup (XC60, XC90, S60, S90, and V60 Recharge). Additionally, the Volvo SELEKT range will be offered, which consists of certified pre-owned vehicles with full assurance and inspection by Volvo Car Malaysia.

To further sweeten the deal for you as a customer or potential customer, the first 97 customers who make reservations within the three-day period will receive an exclusive Volvo Gift Box upon delivery of the new vehicle.

EV

Maserati GranCabrio Folgore is a stylish EV droptop with 818hp and 447km range

The newly launched electric-powered GranCabrio Folgore by Maserati serves as an alternative and complement to the existing GranTurismo Folgore range.

Essentially, the GranCabrio Folgore model is a convertible with a foldable roof. However, overall, it shares many components with the GranTurismo Folgore model, including the electric powertrain unit.

It features a configuration of three radial-flux electric motors, consisting of two units at the rear axle and one unit at the front axle, each capable of producing a peak power of 300 kW (402 hp).

Due to battery technology limitations, Maserati claims that this convertible model can achieve a peak power of up to 818 hp/1,350 Nm in MaxBoost mode or up to 751 hp in standard driving mode.

The GranCabrio can accelerate from 0-100 km/h in just 2.8 seconds before reaching a top speed of 290 km/h. The GranCabrio Folgore is equipped with a T-shaped lithium-ion battery pack positioned on the floor, with a capacity of 92.5 kWh (83 kWh limit).

For a full charge, this model can travel between 419 km and 447 km, aided by a regenerative braking system capable of generating power up to 400 kW. The fast DC 270 kW charging allows you to add 100 km of range in five minutes or charge from 20 to 80 percent in 18 minutes.

As standard, the GranCabrio Folgore offers up to four driving modes: GT default mode, Sport mode, extreme driving mode Corsa, and high-efficiency mode Max Range.

For those who enjoy the wind in their hair, the GranCabrio Folgore’s roof can be folded in 14 seconds at speeds of up to 50 km/h. Reflecting its nature as a luxury car, owners can choose from up to five attractive colors: Nero, Blue Marine, Titan Grey, Greige, and Granata.

The GranCabrio Folgore’s cabin features characteristics such as a 12.2-inch digital cluster screen, a 12.3-inch infotainment screen, and an 8.8-inch third screen for HVAC control.

Additionally, it includes a steering wheel with heating function, brushed aluminum paddle shifters, and other standard features such as neck warmers, Sonus Faber audio system, and a digital clock that can be switched to display a compass, G-force meter, and chronograph. Buyers can also opt for sustainable material packages such as Econyl, made from recycled carpets and fishing nets.

NEWS

This Malaysian produces his own unique RC planes, receives international bookings

2 Comments

Many Malaysian products have actually penetrated the international market, but who would have thought that one of those products is a radio-controlled aircraft (RC). It is the work of Hazanie Abd Hamid, a 48-year-old from Johor.

He has been involved in this hobby for 10 years, and now his RC aircraft has received international demand, including from the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

Hazanie shared that he nearly gave up when more than 30 remote-controlled aircraft he created failed to function and fly.

However, with the encouragement of friends and family members, his son successfully flew his first RC aircraft named Debab.

He mentioned that his experience as a technician, coupled with a deep interest in innovation, motivated him to strive harder.

“I was almost giving up when more than 30 aircraft I built failed to fly. But I persevered because I believed I could make it fly,” he said.

After 10 years of patience, he finally succeeded in creating and flying his first aircraft.

When asked why he named it Debab, Hazanie explained that the idea came to him after seeing Russia’s largest cargo aircraft, known as the Antonov An-124.

Following this success, he has sought to add value to his creations through online learning.

To date, Hazanie has created over 100 aircraft, well-received by local and international RC aircraft enthusiasts.

Most of these ‘Debab’ aircraft are based on real models but have been modified to look cuter.

Some of his Debab versions include A4 Skyhawk, F-14 Tomcat, Fatty Flying Ship, Sukhoi Su-30, and Macross.

His latest creation, the VTOL FlyingShip, is capable of moving on water surfaces and flying in the air, attracting a buyer from Dubai, UAE, who has placed an order.

Photos credit: Facebook Haznie Abd Hamid

NEWS

GMW Tank 300 in Malaysia – Rugged styling, tank turn function, launch Q3 2024

118 Comments

DURING the Ora 07 preview last month, GWM Malaysia made a surprise reveal by showcasing the Tank 300, scheduled to be launched around the third quarter of this year.

The GWM Tank 300 is an SUV with a rugged appearance and a premium interior cabin, but with the unique ability to perform a ‘tank turn’.

The specific variant to be launched in Malaysia is not confirmed yet, but it is believed that the preview unit is 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 transmission and a part-time all-wheel-drive system with 2H, 4H, and 4L modes. The system is also equipped with front and rear differential locks.

Notably, the GWM Tank 300 features a ‘tank turn’ function. When activated, it locks the inner rear tires to enable the SUV to make tight turns in confined areas. This movement is similar to that of tracked vehicles such as tanks and excavators.

Visually, the SUV presents a classic 4×4 appearance with a boxy design and thick side cladding. The front end boasts round LED headlights with integrated fog lights in the bumper.

At the rear, there is an externally mounted spare tire door that opens to the side, 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 an upright dashboard, turbine air vents, a passenger-side grab handle, and a pair of 12.3-inch screens each, the interior exudes a premium feel.

The center console of the Tank 300 features slightly angular gear buttons, control buttons for the drive system, electronic parking brake, and driver assistance system.

Other features include automatic air conditioning, power seats, leather upholstery, Harman Infinity audio system, power sunroof, wireless charging pad, and paddle shifters.

The GWM Tank 300 also comes equipped with active safety systems such as Adaptive Cruise Control and Autonomous Emergency Braking.

What are your thoughts on this rugged SUV with unique capabilities? What price range do you estimate it will fall into upon its launch?

NEWS

Porsche to use its V8 engine to into the next decade

89 Comments

The trend of downsizing engine capacity may be prevalent now, but Porsche seems unwilling to halt the use of V8 engines. Despite increasingly stringent emissions standards, engineers at Zuffenhaus are always one step ahead.

Their eight-cylinder engine has been fine-tuned to comply with the latest Euro 7 standards, even though its implementation has been postponed from 2025 to 2030.

In an interview with the Australian magazine Car Sales, Thomas Freimuth, the head of the Porsche Panamera model line, revealed that new components are being developed to comply with Euro 7 standards.

He stated, “We found that this engine is ready for Euro 7, no problem. We need to use some components that are currently under development, so we are ready with this V8 to comply with Euro 7 standards.”

Freimuth also mentioned that the permissible exhaust noise level is expected to decrease, with stricter legislation complicating the process of delivering more emotion to our Panamera V8.

However, even though the V8 will continue to be used beyond 2030, it is likely that not many Porsche models will be equipped with the 4.0-liter twin-turbo engine by the end of the decade.

In the Annual and Sustainability Report 2023, released last month, Porsche expects to sell over 80% electric vehicle models annually by 2030. Nevertheless, they emphasized that achieving this goal depends on “the demand of our customers and the development of electromobility in specific regions of the world.”

Porsche’s foray into electric vehicles began with the Taycan in 2019, followed by the fully electric second-generation Macan. The 718 Boxster and 718 Cayman are expected to follow suit in 2025.

The successor to the current Cayenne has also been confirmed to be an electric vehicle without an internal combustion engine. Meanwhile, the 911 won’t become a fully electric model this decade, but a hybrid version will debut in the middle of this year with the 992.2 facelift.

Porsche aims to continue using internal combustion engines (ICE) with nearly carbon-neutral synthetic fuel, which they are currently developing in Chile.

NEWS

Isuzu employs AMT trucks to travel 3,554km for charity

2 Comments

THE Isuzu Smoother Drive 2024 program, a nation-wide corporate social responsibility (CSR) and truck roadshow initiative which began on 11 March and concluded with a finale event at the Isuzu Service Center in Shah Alam on 29 March recently, has covered a total combined distance of 3,554 kilometers, logged by 11 Isuzu trucks deployed to the whole of Peninsular Malaysia and parts of Sabah and Sarawak to deliver donated items to the underprivileged communities.

The program was organized by Isuzu Malaysia and 23 of its participating dealers covering 26 locations in conjunction with the month of Ramadhan, as a way to give back to the underprivileged communities.

It entailed the dealerships contributing, as well as collecting donated items including daily household goods, non-perishable food and beverage, and clothes from customers, employees and the public.

In Peninsular Malaysia, six trucks that comprised two medium-duty Euro 5 FVR Smoother AMT and four light-duty Euro 4 ELF Smoother AMT were flagged-off from Isuzu Hicom Malaysia (IHM) assembly plant in Pekan, Kuantan on 11 March.

In the course of this 19-day program, the trucks were required to arrive at each participating dealership on a pre-scheduled date, as they travel from one location to another.

Upon reaching at each dealership, the trucks were tasked to pick up all the donated items and deliver them to the various charity homes for underprivileged children, physically-handicapped and seniors in each locality.

Following the delivery of items to the homes, the trucks made their way back to the dealership for an evening event of truck display and ‘buka puasa’ dinner to thank all the customers and public for their support.

The six trucks for Peninsular Malaysia were divided into two teams. The first team of three trucks covered eight Isuzu dealerships spread across the east coast and northern parts of Peninsular Malaysia. These trucks were driven a total of 1,178.9 kilometers in distance and delivered the donated items to 8 charity homes.

The second team of another three trucks made their stops at 10 dealerships scattered in the southern and central parts of Peninsular Malaysia and recorded a travel distance of 929 kilometers to deliver aid to 16 charity homes.

Meanwhile in East Malaysia, five ELF Euro 4 Smoother AMT trucks travelled a total distance of 1,447 kilometers across the landscapes of Sabah and Sarawak to make their stops at seven participating dealerships showroom and delivered the donated items to 7 charity homes.

Shunsuke Okazoe, Chief Executive Officer of Isuzu Malaysia said “We are very pleased to note that the Isuzu Smoother Drive 2024 program has successfully benefitted so many charity homes in Malaysia and that we were able to deploy our newly-launched FVR Smoother AMT and ELF Smoother AMT trucks to serve this good cause. We hope that this initiative has indeed go the distance in helping to ease some burden of the charity homes and uplift the spirit of their beneficiaries in this coming festive season.”

“As Malaysia’s top truck brand, Isuzu is committed to ensuring that our efforts encompass a larger spectrum of creating better life, from continuously delivering customer satisfaction through reliable trucking solutions to enhancing sustainability and making meaningful social impact that can help improve the lives around us.”

He further shared, “In addition to the unwavering support from our dealers and customers whom we would like to extend our sincere thanks, the smooth and on-schedule execution of our “ISUZU Smoother Drive 2024” program was also a huge testament of the reliability and efficiency of our trucks in maintaining great uptime during the whole time traversing on various terrains across long-distance.”

Both the FVR Smoother and ELF Euro 4 truck range were launched in Malaysia early March this year in response to the changing industry and environmental landscape which requires greater efficiency and performance balanced with cleaner emission and better sustainability. In addition, Isuzu Malaysia now offers the complete range of trucks from light-duty to prime mover that are equipped with its Smoother AMT technology.

NEWS

McLaren is now fully-owned by Bahrain

180 Comments

THIS is official, McLaren Group has announced that it has a new owner. The Bahrain Mumtalakat Holding Company, the government investment arm of the country, now has full control over the sports car manufacturer.

Previously, Mumtalakat held a 60% stake, which has now been increased to 100%.

Paul Walsh, Chairman of McLaren Group, stated that this change “will help us to be more focused on achieving our long-term business plans.” This includes investments in new products and technologies.

McLaren Automotive is also likely to have the necessary financial support for the development of new models, including electric vehicles.

The supercar manufacturer has faced financial challenges in recent years, and in 2022, it sold some of its historic vehicles to make way for the delayed Artura.

A year earlier, McLaren also sold its headquarters and Formula One factory. The company appointed a new CEO in 2022 and launched the 750S in 2023.

There are rumors indicating that McLaren will unveil their hypercar towards the end of this year. Reportedly, it has been “refined” and is said to feature a V8 plug-in hybrid engine with over 1,000hp.

It is reported that the hypercar will not feature McLaren’s signature dihedral doors but instead will have gullwing doors, in addition to a new carbon fiber chassis and 3D-printed suspension components.

NEWS

BYD officiates new 3S centre in Melaka

98 Comments

BYD, a rapidly expanding electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer, has announced the official opening of its new 3S center in Melaka.

Located in the heart of the historical city, the 3S center is managed by BYD Sing Kwung Motors, providing sales and after-sales services to BYD customers in the area.

“We are excited to inaugurate our newest 3S center in Melaka, showcasing our dedication to serving customers in Malaysia,” said Mr. Jeffrey Gan, Managing Director of Southeast Asia, Sime Darby Motors Malaysia.

“The newly opened 3S center will offer a range of services, including sales consultations, test drives, and after-sales services,” mentioned Mr. Ng Sin Yean, Managing Director of BYD Sing Kwung Motors.

“Customers can explore BYD’s latest electric vehicle models known for their technological sophistication, performance excellence, and eco-friendly features,” he added.

With the opening of this new 3S center, BYD underscores its commitment to sustainable transportation and innovation in Melaka.

BYD aims to establish 30 retail outlets across the country by the end of 2024.

NEWS

Tesla’s latest EV chargers in Malaysia is the biggest one in Southeast Asia

219 Comments

Malaysia now has the largest electric vehicle (EV) charging station in Southeast Asia, located at Gamuda Cove in Kuala Langat. This state-of-the-art facility is the latest addition to Tesla’s charging network in Malaysia, comprising six Superchargers and 18 Destination Chargers.

The expansion of Tesla’s charging infrastructure in Malaysia includes the following previously established stations:

  • Pavilion Bukit Jalil: 6 Superchargers, 2 Destination Chargers
  • Tesla Service Centre Cyberjaya: 4 Superchargers, 4 Destination Chargers
  • Sunway Big Box Iskandar Puteri Johor: 4 Superchargers, 3 Destination Chargers
  • Freeport A’Famosa Outlet Melaka: 4 Superchargers, 1 Destination Charger
  • Pavilion KL: 8 Superchargers
  • Sunway Pyramid: 4 Superchargers
  • The Ship Campus Penang: 8 Destination Chargers
  • Sunway Velocity Mall KL: 6 Destination Chargers
  • Sunway Putra Mall KL: 6 Destination Chargers
  • Pavilion Damansara Heights: 5 Destination Chargers
  • All Seasons Place Penang: 4 Destination Chargers

In total, Tesla now operates 36 Superchargers and 55 Destination Chargers across the country. Notably, the charging fees are uniform across all stations.

The Supercharger, capable of charging at rates of up to 250kW, offers its services at a rate of RM1.25/kWh, with an additional idle fee of RM4.00 per minute when the station is at full capacity.

NEWS

Porsche Leipzig plant awarded Factory of the Year

1 Comment

The Porsche production plant in Leipzig has been awarded the Factory of the Year by the consultancy firm Kearney, in collaboration with Süddeutscher Verlag Veranstaltungen and the magazine Produktion.

The sports car brand manufacturing facility has surpassed nearly 100 other factories worldwide. Last autumn, the jury panels visited this Leipzig plant.

Porsche utilizes the Smart Factory approach for a smart and connected plant. All processes are smart, efficient, and eco-friendly. For instance, the car ‘marriage’ process in the plant is intricate yet organized. The ‘marriage’ process involves the assembly of the chassis with the body of the car.

In Leipzig, this process can encompass three different powertrains – combustion engine, hybrid, or electric – in the same assembly line. Cameras are used for monitoring alongside automated measurement systems for checking screw threads.

In the painting section, whereas it was previously inspected by several individuals in a team, it now employs the Automatic Error Detection (AFE) process.

In just 70 seconds, two robots scan the entire outer surface of the car using light strips. Over 100,000 photos enable these robots to detect even minor errors.

Another aspect contributing to the Leipzig Porsche plant’s victory is sustainability and commitment to the local community. The Zero Impact Factory vision balances the economy, biodiversity, and air quality.

Since 2017, this plant has solely used electricity from renewable sources. It has been carbon-neutral since 2021, with part of the electric power being generated by the plant itself.

Porsche’s social commitment also contributes to education, culture, social issues, sports, and the environment. One strategy involves protecting various animal species in the plant’s vicinity for over 20 years. Species in the surrounding area include Heck cattle, Exmoor ponies, bees, and a variety of plants.

In 2002, the Leipzig plant commenced operations as Porsche’s second production center after Stuttgart. Currently, the Leipzig plant plays a pivotal role in the economy of central Germany, with over 4,600 employees building Macan and Panamera models here.

The Porsche Leipzig plant also houses the Porsche Experience Centre with an FIA-certified track and off-road courses.

NEWS

Mercedes Vision EQXX completed 1,000km journey with 300km range left!

MERCEDES has once again sent their electric vehicle (EV) concept car – Vision EQXX – on a long-distance journey to test its efficiency. This time, it was tested in the Arabian Peninsula to demonstrate that EVs can be driven long distances even in desert heat.

The Vision EQXX recently traveled a distance of 627.6 miles (1,010km) from the Mercedes-Benz Center in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia to the Mercedes-Benz Brand Center in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. The journey took 14 hours and 42 minutes.

Despite temperatures reaching 34 degrees Celsius, the EV remained efficient with a power usage of only 7.4kWh per 100km. For comparison, it recorded 8.3kWh/100km during a test from Germany to England.

The Vision EQXX also had a remaining range of 192 miles (309km) when it reached its destination in Dubai. This theoretically means that the EV can be driven for up to 820 miles (1,319km) on a full charge.

This test result is a positive outcome for Mercedes engineers as extreme temperatures (too hot or too cold) can have a negative impact on the driving range of EVs. To mitigate the impact of temperature on the batteries, the Vision EQXX uses a special heat pump to cool the cabin, which Mercedes claims has minimal effect on the driving range.

To further enhance power efficiency, the Vision EQXX test unit is equipped with 117 solar cells. During the test, these cells generated 1.8kWh of energy, adding a range of 15 miles (24km). Mercedes stated that they will incorporate this feature into the production cars.

Also tested during this driving trial is the smart assistance system. This system provides recommendations to the driver on how to drive more efficiently, and it is indeed intelligent.

In this case, it also takes into account crosswinds from the coast to help the driver maximize the battery range. During stops, it assists in finding the most ideal parking space to receive sunlight for recharging the solar system.