All posts by Amirul Mukminin

Life’s too short to argue about which car is the best. Drive whatever you like, as long as you’re happy with it.
NEWS

Hyundai Santa Fe facelift now available in Malaysia from RM186k-RM206k

Hyundai-Sime Darby Motors (HSDM) has announced that the facelifted fourth-generation Hyundai Santa Fe has been launched and is open for bookings at all Hyundai showrooms nationwide.

The first 100 customers to place a booking will enjoy a discount of RM10,000, bringing the on-the-road price down to RM185,888 for the 1.6L Turbo Hybrid Plus, RM205,888 for the 1.6L Turbo Hybrid Max and RM199,888 for the 2.2L Turbo Diesel Max.

All three variants of the Santa Fe are locally assembled and come with a comprehensive 5-year/300,000 km warranty.

Looks-wise, the refreshed Santa Fe features T-shaped LED daytime running lights, a wide grille that integrates with the headlamps, and an illuminated bar connecting the taillights.

There are four colours to choose from, namely Jet Black, Snowflake White Pearl, Meteor Grey, and Stormy Sea.

Standard features include a 10.25-inch touchscreen with pre-loaded maps and satellite-based voice-guided navigation, dual-zone automatic climate control, and a Smart Power Tailgate.

The Santa Fe is also equipped with the SmartSense safety suite, which includes features like Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, Smart Cruise Control with Stop & Go. There’s also Blind Spot View Monitor and Surround View Monitor.

As for the powertrains, the 2.2-litre CRDi diesel engine produces 202 PS and 440 Nm, while the 1.6-litre Gamma-II T-GDi hybrid engine generates a total system output of 230 PS and 350 Nm.

The former is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission that drives the front wheels, while the latter gets an eight-speed automatic transmission and the HTRAC all-wheel-drive system.

Both variants feature a Terrain Mode selector, allowing drivers to optimise vehicle performance across various driving conditions, including sand, snow and mud, along with offering eco, sport, comfort and smart modes.

NEWS

Proton exceeds 100k-unit sales for 6th consecutive year

Proton has announced that its sales has exceeded the 100,000-mark for the sixth year in a row with 101,489 units sold year-to-date (YTD), after achieving sales of 12,690 units (domestic and export) in August.

This has solidified the company’s second position in the overall national automotive sales ranking table with a forecast market share of 19%.

Total industry volume (TIV) for the Malaysian automotive market is estimated to have grown by 1.3% month-on-month to approximately 72,678 units in August while the YTD figure is estimated to be at 534,766 units, an increase of 6.2% over 2023.

The recently launched 2024 Proton X50 continues to find favour with buyers as 2,440 units were delivered in August, the third time volume has breached the 2,000 threshold in 2024. YTD sales now stand at 15,229 units, making the X50 the most popular SUV in Proton’s range.

Saga came in at 6,211 units in August leading to YTD sales of 48,904 units, an uptick of 6.7% over 2023. Sales for the S70 were 1,205 units for a total of 13,755 units, while the Persona saw 1,452 units change hands, bringing its YTD total to 13,116 units

The X90 retained leadership for its segment with 241 being delivered in August and a YTD figure of 2,507 units, while the Iriz, sold 403 units to bring its total sales to date to 3,719 units.

“In light of the resilient domestic economy, with GDP growth projected at 4% to 5%, Proton agrees with the
Malaysian Automotive Association’s (MAA) decision to increase the full-year TIV projection to 765,000 units
and we remain optimistic about the potential for further growth in the local automotive industry,” said Roslan Abdullah, Chief Executive Officer, Proton Edar.

As for its export performance, Proton says last month Brunei saw its highest ever monthly sales performance with 120 units sold to customers there.

Since February this year, the best-selling export model is the Saga, which again led the pack with 140 units exported in August. Other models also saw an uptick in August export shipments, bringing the cumulative export sales from Proton to its distributors to 2,110 units since January this year.

NEWS

5 car factories in Malaysia that you should know

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For most automotive brands in Malaysia, local assembly plays a crucial role in ensuring their continued competitiveness in the local automotive market.

It goes without saying that national carmakers such as Proton and Perodua run their own assembly plants in the country; however, for foreign brands, completely knocked-down (CKD) operations allow them to offer products at more competitive prices.

Through support and various incentives offered by the government, Malaysia has become host to several vehicle production plants from leading brands. Here are five automotive production plants in the country that you should know about:

Proton Shah Alam & Tg. Malim

The Proton vehicle assembly plant in Shah Alam began operating in 1985, the same year the original Proton Saga was launched. This plant also produced many other important models such as the Wira, Waja, Exora, and Satria.

Proton is reportedly planning to relocate its entire manufacturing operations in Shah Alam to Proton City, Tanjong Malim by 2027. The RM1.8 billion plant, opened in 2003, covers an area of 517 hectares. In addition to producing the latest models such as X50 and X70, the plant also assembles the 1.5 TGDI engine.

Perodua Sg. Choh, Rawang

Perodua’s headquarters sits on a 522-acre site in Sungai Choh, Rawang. In addition to its corporate building, an R&D facility, a test track, and various other facilities, it also houses two vehicle assembly plants: Perodua Manufacturing Sdn Bhd (PMSB) and Perodua Global Manufacturing Sdn Bhd (PGMSB), which was opened in 2016.

According to Perodua, both plants have a vehicle production capacity of up to 320,000 vehicles a year. Perodua also has engine and transmission production plants, both located in Sendayan TechValley.

Toyota Shah Alam & Bukit Raja

The first locally assembled Toyota vehicle was the Corolla KE10, assembled at the Champion Motor plant in Shah Alam. In 1975, the plant was renamed Assembly Services Sdn Bhd (ASSB).

With increasing demand and the need for a new, more modern plant, UMW Toyota in 2019 opened its second assembly plant in Bukit Raja, Klang, where the latest models such as Vios, Yaris, and Corolla Cross are manufactured.

Honda Pegoh, Melaka

Honda began its CKD operations in the country in 2003 with the assembly of the second-generation Honda CR-V at its Pegoh, Melaka plant. The plant, covering an area of 46,543 square feet, can produce up to 50,000 cars per year.

In 2014, a second assembly line was launched, allowing Honda Malaysia to double their annual production to 100,000 units of vehicles annually and 400 units daily.

Volvo Shah Alam

The Volvo Car Manufacturing Malaysia plant, located in Shah Alam, is the oldest automotive assembly plant in Malaysia. It began operations in March 1967 through the assembly of the Volvo 144.

Interestingly, it is also the first Volvo plant opened outside of Volvo’s home country, Sweden. Today, the plant produces a range of Volvo PHEV and BEV cars such as XC90 Recharge, XC60 Recharge, XC40 Recharge, and C40 Recharge.

NEWS

Jaecoo Malaysia launches J-Club for J7 SUV owners

JAECOO Malaysia has announced that it has started customer deliveries of the J7 AWD, which was officially launched in July.

The company stated that 500 units of the J7 have been delivered so far, following the delivery of the first 500 units of the J7 to dealers last August.

“We deeply appreciate the excitement of our customers who are looking forward to driving their dream Jaecoo J7 SUV home or on adventures off the beaten track.

Alongside our commitment to delivering vehicles on schedule, JAECOO Malaysia is taking the necessary time and effort to ensure all vehicles are of the highest quality that meet stringent international safety standards,” said Leo Chen, Executive Vice President of Chery Corporate Malaysia.

As for the 2WD variant of the J7, Jaecoo says it is preparing to deliver the model to dealerships ahead of the initial September date.

Jaecoo has also announced the launch of an owners club known as the J-Club. According to Emily Lek, Vice President of Jaecoo Malaysia, every Jaecoo vehicle owner will automatically become an elite J-Club member who will be able to enjoy additional benefits.

“This includes personalised service from highly trained personnel dedicated to ensuring peace of mind for each owner,” said Emily.

The J-Club will also allow members to enjoy limited-time offers such as maintenance service deals and the opportunity to participate in social activities, such as J-Club organized events including glamping excursions and car care workshops.

Members will also receive exclusive invitations involving artist collaborations, auto show invitations, and the opportunity to visit the brand’s manufacturing plant in China.

Jaecoo will host its inaugural J-Club gathering event on September 7 from 5:30 PM to 10:00 PM at Sentul Pavilion, Kuala Lumpur.

J-Club members will be kept informed about Jaecoo’s latest updates through email, messaging platforms like WhatsApp and WeChat, and the J-Club Facebook page.

TIPS

How to get the correct driving position

Some of you may not know this but getting the correct sitting posture while driving is very important and could potentially be life-changing.

If you are seated perfectly, not only can you reduce the risk of back pain and fatigue, but you also have better control of the vehicle in the event of an emergency.

How do you achieve the correct driving position? Those who are used to leaning back in your seat like Dominic Toretto may feel a bit awkward at first because the correct driving position means you will be sitting slightly upright like a race car driver.

Don’t drive like Toretto

Before settling into the driver’s seat, make sure your pockets, especially the back pockets, are empty. Bulky items such as a wallet can affect your driving position.

Once seated in the driver’s seat, ensure that your back and lower back are snug against the backrest. Then, adjust the seat so that your spine and hips are in a straight line.

If you need to tilt your head up or down to see the road ahead, adjust the height of your seat and ensure your line of sight is approximately halfway up the windscreen.

On top of that, don’t forget to adjust the head restraint (or headrest) so that it’s even with the top of your head. This is vital because the headrest is there to limit head movement to prevent whiplash in accidents.

The next step is to ensure that your position is not too far or too close to the steering wheel and pedals. If your foot is slightly bent when the pedals are fully pressed down, you are in the correct position.

Image: axa.co.uk

Similarly, your arms should be slightly bent when gripping the steering wheel at the 9-3 o’clock position. You should also be able to rest your wrists on the top of the steering wheel without having to move your shoulders away from the backrest.

These tips may sound a bit elaborated for those who are not familiar but if practiced, you will surely feel the difference, especially in terms of comfort and control.

NEWS

Ford Everest Tremor gains off-road upgrades to take on Australian outback

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In July, Ford Australia added a new variant to the Ranger lineup known as the Tremor. Now, it’s the Everest’s turn to receive the same off-road-focused treatment.

At first glance, you will immediately know that the Everest Tremor is not your average Everest. It boasts a more rugged appearance courtesy of a new, more aggressive bumper fitted with auxiliary LED lights, front tow hooks, and a steel bash plate.

Not only that, the combination of Bilstein position-sensitive dampers and 17-inch wheels wrapped in General Grabber AT3 tyres provide the SUV with an additional ground clearance of one inch, giving it an even more menacing stance.

The interior is adorned with ebony leather-accented seats embossed with Tremor logo, as well as all-weather floor mats. Perhaps what’s more important is the addition of a Rock Crawl drive mode carried over from the Ranger Raptor.

Meanwhile, the Everest’s advanced driver assistance system consisting of features like Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop & Go, Intelligent Speed Assist, Traffic Sign Recognition, Lane Centering, Blind Spot Monitoring with Cross Traffic Alert, and Blind Spot Monitoring with Cross Traffic Alert, is retained.

Customers planning to go further than the beaten path can opt for the Rough Terrain Pack offered at no additional cost. It includes a stealth bar and underbody protection from ARB, as well as an auxiliary switch bank.

The Ranger Tremor is powered by a 3.0-litre V6 turbocharged diesel engine producing 250 PS at 3,250 rpm and 600 Nm from 1,750 to 2,250 rpm. Power is sent to the wheels through a 10-speed automatic transmission and a full-time four-wheel-drive system.

In Australia, the Ranger Tremor is available in four colours: Command Grey, Meteor Grey, Shadow Black, and Arctic White, with prices starting from AUD 76,590 (RM 225,000).

TEST DRIVE

4 areas the Range Rover Evoque facelift could improve on

Since entering the market for the first time in 2011, the Range Rover Evoque has been elevated to an icon of luxury SUVs, especially among female drivers.

If you think about it, the Evoque can be likened to a designer handbag. It is beautiful and attention-grabbing but there’s more than meets the eyes – it is also practical and versatile.

The Evoque is now in its second generation with better chassis, design, and technology. The facelift version launched in Malaysia earlier this year brings forth sharper looks and a minimalist cabin space.

In other words, Land Rover has made the Evoque a more tempting proposition than before but the compact SUV does have some drawbacks, somewhat spoiling its reputation:

Tight cabin space

The Evoque is a compact-sized SUV, evident in its relatively small interior space, particularly in the back. There’s enough room for two adult passengers in the rear, but it will start to feel a little cramped should another passenger decide to hop in.

As for the boot space, 591 litres may sound ample but for some reason, it doesn’t feel as spacious. Clearly, this is not meant for those with large families.

Inferior infotainment system

Apart from the more minimalist interior design, the most recent revision gave the Evoque a new 11.4-inch curved touchscreen.

It provides users access to the Pivi Pro infotainment system, which looks quite aesthetically pleasing, but fails to impress when it comes to speed and smoothness. Fair to say it’s not as remarkable as what the Germans offer.

Additionally, users control the temperature and fan speed of the air conditioning system through the touchscreen and only the touchscreen. This is how you cause driver distraction.

Somewhat lethargic engine

The beating heart of the Evoque is the Ingenium 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission and an all-wheel-drive system.

The engine generates 249 PS at 5,500 rpm and 365 Nm of torque from 1,300 to 4,500 rpm – neither impressive nor disappointing but the powertrain could use a lot more vigour especially when accelerating. Its reluctance to show urgency often leads to aggressive inputs on the accelerator pedal.

Fuel efficiency

With a rather aggressive driving style, the Ingenium mill unsurprisingly shows a relatively high fuel consumption rate for both city and highway use.

Throughout several days of driving, this writer could only achieve readings around 10.3 to 10.5 litres per 100 km. That’s quite high but it should be kept in mind that the Evoque weighs around 1.8 tons and has an AWD system.

Engear Volt

These celebrities are banned from buying a Ferrari

From its inception until this very day, every car that has been made by Ferrari has been in high demand. So it is little wonder that the supercar manufacturer from Maranello, Italy has the power to choose who buys its cars.

Quite extraordinary, if you ask me. But that is the reality for a brand that puts image and prestige above all else.

Believe it or not, Ferrari actually maintains a list of famous individuals who are prohibited from buying its cars. Here are some of the big names on that list:

Justin Bieber

‘Beliebers’ will surely remember that the famous pop star once bought a Ferrari 458 Italia somewhere in 2011. He sent his car to West Coast Customs to get it wrapped in Electric Blue, and fitted with a Liberty Walk body kit and custom logos. That was his first strike.

After partying in Beverly Hills, Bieber actually lost his car for over three weeks. Shortly after it was found, the Baby singer auctioned it off for around $435,000 without Ferrari’s permission.

Floyd Mayweather Jr.

In similar fashion to Bieber, Mayweather Jr. was banned from buying a Ferrari because he violated Ferrari’s ownership rules and conditions that prohibit owners from selling their cars in the first year.

However, this is unlikely to be a huge problem for Mayweather Jr., as he is the world’s wealthiest boxer with a net worth of approximately $450 million to date. With that kind of moolah, he has access to many other luxury cars on the market – some might be even better than what Maranello has to offer.

Kim Kardashian

Whether it’s true or not that Kim Kardashian is banned from buying Ferrari is still unclear, but the story came to surface because she was seen driving a white Ferrari 458 Italia reportedly gifted by fugitive Malaysian businessman Jho Low.

Due to the negative publicity stemming from the 1MDB scandal, Kim Kardashian’s name is said to have been added to an unofficial list of individuals prohibited from buying a Ferrari.

Deadmau5

Some 10 years ago, Canadian EDM artist Joel Zimmerman, famously known as Deadmau5, wrapped his Ferrari 458 Spider with a Nyan Cat livery. He also replaced the brand’s horse logo with a cat logo and changed the ‘Ferrari’ lettering to ‘Purrari’.

Not only that, Zimmerman also sold the car through Craigslist less than a year after owning it. As you might expect, this angered Ferrari, which subsequently sent a cease and desist letter to Zimmerman.

Tyga

According to reports, Tyga once leased a Rolls-Royce Ghost and a Ferrari 458 Spider around 2016. However, the famous rap singer reportedly failed to make payments before the leasing agreement expired, resulting in the repossession of both cars.

As if that’s not bad enough, the company who leased out both cars took Tyga to court to sue the rapper for the unpaid fee said to be around hundreds of thousands of dollars. Needless to say, the whole debacle did not impress Ferrari.

50 Cent

Another rap star who ‘successfully’ put his name on Ferrari’s blacklist is 50 Cent, also known as Curtis Jackson. In 2020, Jackson took to social media to complain about his Ferrari 488 that wouldn’t start due to a dead battery.

In the post, Jackson said he didn’t want the car anymore and would replace it with a smart car. Bad publicity such as this will put you in Ferrari’s bad books.

Chris Harris

Those who do not follow the automotive sector may not have the slightest idea who Chris Harris is, but in the world of cars, Harris is considered an esteemed journalist.

The dispute between Harris and Ferrari stemmed from an article titled ‘How Ferrari Spins,’ published on the Jalopnik website in 2011. In the article, Harris claimed that Ferrari modified their test cars to ensure they receive outstanding scores in magazine performance tests.

NEWS

Modenas unveils new logo and brand identity

Motosikal dan Enjin Nasional (Modenas), subsidiary of DRB-Hicom Berhad has launched its new logo and brand identity.

The company says the new brand identity marks its bold ambitions for the future that focuses on global expansion, new technologies, and cleaner solutions.

The refreshed logo is inspired by the iconic Modenas “M” symbol in a bold, modern style, placed within a circle to convey precision and a renewed identity.

While keeping its signature blue and white colours, the updated logo introduces a MODENAS grey and platinum variant.

The introduction of a new Road Star Element also reflects the brand’s new direction, emphasising its industry leadership, adaptability, and commitment to growth.

On the rebranding effort, Roslan Roskan, Chief Executive Officer of Modenas states, “The mobility industry is rapidly evolving, driven by the urgent need for energy transition and growing concerns for environmental sustainability.

With this, our renewed vision will see us bringing excitement that connects people and communities, by providing value, technology, and sustainable products globally.”

To commemorate this milestone, Modenas unveiled an upgraded, eco-friendly variant of the Kriss 110, the first Kriss variant to meet the stringent Euro 4 emissions standards.

Pricing starts from RM4,599 for the drum brake version and RM4,998 for the disc brake version.

NEWS

Johor police use two buses to block ‘mat rempit’ from getting away

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Johor Bahru South district police used two buses to block a group of errant bikers from getting away in a special integrated operation on Jalan Skudai-Pantai Lido early this morning.

According to the Chief of the Johor Bahru South district police, ACP Raub Selamat, the two-day operation from 5 pm to 1 am witnessed a total of 286 individuals and 257 vehicles being inspected.

“Out of this total, 115 motorcycles were seized under section 64 of the Road Transport Act (JPJ) 1987 for further inspection,” he said in a statement.

He further added that the operation to curb errant motorcyclists involved over 100 officers and enforcement members from various agencies.

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A total of 153 summonses for various offenses were issued, including driving without a licence, alteration of vehicle structure, and various other offenses.

The Road Transport Department (JPJ) issued 54 compounds under the Road Transport Act 1987 for various offenses.

The Department of Environment (DOE) also issued 46 compound summonses and 52 inspection notices to individuals riding motorcycles that emit noise exceeding the specified limit.

Photo: Polis Daerah Johor Bahru Selatan

“We also arrested a 28-year-old local man for testing positive for methamphetamine after undergoing urine screening. The offense is being investigated under Section 15(1)(a) of the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952,” he added.

The offense can carry a prison sentence of up to three years, a fine of up to RM5,000, and two years of police supervision.

The public with information related to street thug activities and illegal racing can contact the South Johor Bahru District Police hotline at 07-218 2222

TIPS

5 exciting EVs priced from RM100,000 to RM150,000

FACTORS such as tax and duty exemptions, as well as the influx of new and exciting models into the local market have made electric vehicles (EVs) increasingly popular in Malaysia.

According to a report from Berita Harian, the registration of new EVs in the country has reached 10,700 units in the first half of this year, representing an increase of more than twice the 4,400 units achieved in the same period last year.

EVs, in general, are stuffed with a plethora of new technologies but thanks to the aforementioned tax and duty exemptions by the Malaysian government, the prices are rather reasonable, starting from just RM100,000.

For those who are looking to switch to EVs without having to spend too much, here are five attractive EVs priced between RM100,000 and RM150,000:

BYD Dolphin

The Dolphin was launched back in July 2023 with two variants to choose from, namely the Dynamic Standard Range (SR) and the Premium Extended Range (ER). Prices start from RM100,530 for the former and RM125,530 for the latter.

The difference between the two lies in the range and charging speed. The SR offers a range of up to 410 km (based on the WLTP cycle), while the ER can go up to 490 km on a full charge.

GWM Ora Good Cat

Those who are in the market for a stylish EV may consider the Ora Good Cat, which was officially launched by GWM Malaysia. There are two two variants – 400 Pro (RM113,800) and 500 Ultra (RM143,800).

Concerned about the quality of Chinese-made cars? Fret not as the Ora Good Cat comes with a 5-year/150,000 km vehicle warranty and an 8-year/180,000 km warranty for the battery, electric motor, and control unit.

MG4

The MG4 is one of the two EVs launched by SAIC Motor Malaysia Sdn. Bhd. back in March this year. It is a hatchback with a bold exterior design, a perfect fit for young individuals who want to stand out on the road.

What’s interesting about the MG4 is that is available in Standard, Lux, Lux Extended Range variants, with prices ranging from RM103,900 to RM148,900. There’s also a high-performance guise called the XPower, slightly exceeding the RM150,000 mark.

GAC Aion Y Plus

Introduced by WTC Automotif at the Malaysia Autoshow 2024 last May, the Aion Y Plus is essentially an SUV but thanks to its roomy interior, coupled with front seats that can be fully reclined, it feels more like an MPV.

Two variants are offered – Elite and Premium, with sales prices ranging from RM119,800 to RM135,800. Both variants are equipped with a lithium iron phosphate battery (dubbed Magazine Battery 2.0) with a capacity of 63.2 kWh that boasts a range of up to 490 km.

Chery Omoda E5

Another electric SUV available below the RM150,000 mark is the Chery Omoda E5, which can be yours from RM146,800. It is essentially the electric version of the ICE-powered Omoda 5, which means you are getting a vehicle with similar styling and size but with a an electric motor driving the front wheels.

The Omoda E5 comes equipped with a 61 kWh battery, offering a driving range of up to 430 km. The battery can be charged from 30 to 80% in just 28 minutes. To sweeten the deal, Chery Malaysia is offering a one-to-one exchange if the battery’s state of health falls below 70% during the warranty period.

NEWS

Proton shipped 261 units of X Series models to Trinidad & Tobago in 2024, exceeding target volume

PROTON says it has expanded its geographical reach in the Caribbean by partnering with ANSA Motors Limited in Trinidad and Tobago since March this year.

Year-to-date, the national carmaker has shipped 261 units to the country in 2024, achieving 101% of its target volume and bringing the total number of Proton vehicles shipped there to 366 units since CY2023.

To recap, Proton launched the X90 and X50 in the dual-island Caribbean nation on 13 March this year. As local demand grew, ANSA Motors decided to up its ante with an increased target to sell 300 units in 2024.

ANSA Motors has a century’s worth of experience in the automotive industry, and was picked by Proton on the back of an impressive record and strong automotive background.

Despite its population of merely 1.5 million, Trinidad and Tobago’s automotive industry mirrors that of more developed countries, with car buyers increasingly gravitating towards the new “bells and whistles” such as hybrids and electric vehicles (EVs).

As there is more wealth creation in that part of the world, luxury vehicles are growing more desirable and the emergence of new and exciting brands such as Proton is finding unprecedented acceptance.

The ANSA McAL Group of Companies is one of Trinidad and Tobago’s largest conglomerates, with over 25 subsidiaries across the Caribbean.

Founded in 1919, its subsidiary ANSA Motors has been a pioneering force in the automotive industry, introducing leading global automotive brands to the country.

Notably, the century-old dealer was the first Ford dealer in the Caribbean and has played a pivotal role in transforming the automobile industry over decades, making it a subject of study in local schools today.

“The technology and pricing of Proton vehicles are a strength we hope to exploit so we are very enthusiastic about the future. We needed a value for money brand for segments we had no presence in, and the Proton brand certainly filled those spots,” said Jerome Borde, Head of Regional Business, ANSA Motors.

Since launch, Proton has exported 6,501 X series vehicles to 18 other countries, including Trinidad and Tobago, Brunei, Egypt, Nepal, and Ghana, paving the way for future expansion into more export markets.

NEWS

Chery Malaysia hands over Tiggo 7 Pro to Olympic medallists

As announced back in June, Chery Malaysia has presented its rewards to the Malaysian Olympic athletes who brought home medals from the recently concluded Paris Olympics.

The national men’s doubles pair, Aaron Chia and Soh Wooi Yik, who clinched bronze medals in the tournament, each received a Chery Tiggo 7 Pro.

Meanwhile, the men’s singles badminton bronze medalist, Lee Zii Jia, also earned himself a Tiggo 7 Pro but was unable to attend the event as he is currently competing in a tournament overseas.

“Their grit, determination, and perseverance throughout the Games are truly inspiring, and we are proud to celebrate their success with a vehicle that mirrors these qualities,” said Michael Chew, Vice President of Chery Malaysia.

The prize presentation ceremony, held at a Chery showroom in Bandar Bukit Puchong, was also graced by the Minister of Youth and Sports, Hannah Yeoh.

“We believe that sports is a unifying tool for Malaysia. We encourage the private sector to play their role in rewarding athletes when they succeed in bringing back medals. What makes Chery’s gesture special is that they are celebrating all medal winners,” said Yeoh.

Launched last June at a price of RM123,800, the Tiggo 7 Pro is powered by a 1.6-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine that makes 197 PS and 290 Nm of torque.

With a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT) driving the front wheels, the SUV is capable of achieving fuel efficiency as low as 7.0 litres/100 km.

Additionally, the Tiggo 7 Pro is equipped with plenty of exciting features such as Advanced Driver Assistance System 2.5 (ADAS 2.5), wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, panoramic sunroof, and a premium Sony audio system.

Chery Malaysia said that it aims to continue uplifting local sports talent and contributing to the nation’s success on the global stage, in line with its expansion across the country.

NEWS

Proton, Geely join forces to upgrade Saga

In a recent statement, Proton has confirmed that it is working closely with Geely to explore model enhancement activities for the existing Saga.

According to the national car manufacturer, the collaborative efforts with Geely, which have been conducted for several years, have been accelerated after the establishment of the Proton R&D Centre (China) in April this year.

Detailed information and a timeline for the launch of the new Saga were not disclosed; however, Proton stated that the upgrading of the Proton’s homegrown models involves leveraging joint resources with Geely and is led by Proton R&D engineers in Malaysia.

“The ability to conceptualise, design, develop and manufacture new vehicles from the ground up is unique for Proton as a national brand. These abilities have now been strengthened by enhancing the synergies of Proton’s existing in-house competencies with the resources and know-how of Geely,” the company said.

In the same statement, Proton informed that the Saga, which is now in its 39th year of production, recorded remarkable sales of 7,855 units last month. This marks the best single-month achievement for the model since October 2013.

Cumulatively, year-to-date (YTD) sales for the model have grown 8.8% year-on-year to 42,693 units, setting the stage for a stellar sales year ahead.

Since the first Proton Saga began rolling off the production lines on 9 July 1985, its sales have surpassed the 2 million mark this year, solidifying its status as the most popular model from a Malaysian automotive brand.

In celebration of Malaysia’s National Day and as a gesture of giving back to the rakyat, Proton has launched the “Saga-Merdeka Easy to Own” campaign, offering various incentives and exclusive deals throughout the month of August.

During the month-long period, the company is offering RM500 cash rebate on the purchase of any Proton Saga model. On top of that, Maybank customers are eligible for an additional RM200 rebate when the promotional message from Maybank is presented by the customer in any participating Proton dealers.

NEWS

Lotus Emeya electric hyper GT now in Malaysia – 3 variants, priced from RM555k-RM777k

LOTUS Cars Malaysia’s second electric vehicle offering for the local market, the Emeya, has been officially launched.

Much like the Eletre, the fully electric Hyper-GT is available in three variants – Emeya, Emeya S, and Emeya R. The base variant is priced at RM555,000, the S variant at RM643,000, while the R variant goes for RM777,000.

These prices do not include road tax and insurance. All variants of the Emeya come with a five-year/150,000 km manufacturer’s warranty, while the battery comes with an eight-year/200,000 km warranty.

Both the base Emeya and Emeya S are powered by two electric motors producing 603 hp and 710 Nm. With a single-speed transmission, it can accelerate from 0-100 km/h in 4.2 seconds before reaching a maximum speed of 250 km/h.

Meanwhile, the range-topping Emeya R boasts a whopping 905 hp and 985 Nm. Unlike the other two variants, this one has a two-speed transmission, enabling it to complete the century sprint in just 2.8 seconds. Its maximum speed is slightly higher at 256 km/h.

In addition to the powerful electric motors, most of the Emeya’s performance is contributed by its sleek, aerodynamic design.

The car is equipped with an active front grille to reduce wind resistance and cool the battery, an active air dam to increase downforce at the front, an active rear diffuser, as well as a dual-layer active rear spoiler that can generate up to 215 kg of downforce.

Moreover, the Emeya also comes with an all-wheel drive system with Lotus ICC intelligent torque distribution and an electronically controlled air suspension system that is capable of ‘feeling’ the road 1,000 times a second.

All three variants come with a 102 kWh battery, but the range (WLTP) for each variant differs. The base variant offers a range of 610 km, while the S variant offers 540 km. The Emeya R can travel up to 435 km.

On top of 22 kW AC charging, the Emeya also supports fast DC charging up to 350 kW, which can recharge the battery from 10% to 80% in just 18 minutes.

The Emeya’s interior features a minimalist design combined with sustainable and durable materials and advanced technology. To reduce carbon footprint, Lotus uses new luxury thread made from repurposed fibres from the fashion industry.

Additionally, you will find a 15.1-inch touchscreen powered by Unreal Engine, as well as a KEF audio system with Uni-Q speakers, Uni-Core space-saving subwoofer enclosure, and 3D Dolby Atmos surround sound. The Road Noise Cancellation (RNC) feature is also included.

For safety, there is a full suite of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) comprising features such as obstacle warnings, lane departure, forward collision alerts and blind-spot monitoring. All essential information is displayed through a 55-inch projected augmented reality (AR) head-up display.

EV, TEST DRIVE

5 things we don’t like about the BYD Seal

The electric vehicle (EV) market in Malaysia is heating up with the presence of various attractive models from all over the world.

The two EV brands currently hotly discussed are Tesla and BYD. The former made its mark in the local market with the launch of the facelifted Model 3 last October.

Meanwhile, the latter has introduced three EVs so far, with Seal being the latest offering to compete directly with the popular Model 3.

During a recent test drive, this writer found that the Seal has the right formula to go toe to toe with its closest rivals, but like most other cars, it still has some weaknesses.

Here are five things we don’t like about the Seal:

Two badges is one too many

For this writer, the Seal is one of the best looking cars, if not the best looking, in its segment. It has a sleek, sporty four-door sedan shape, which is further highlighted by strong character lines, 19-inch wheels, and a rear diffuser, to name a few.

However, BYD unnecessarily placed two ‘BYD’ badges at the rear – one in the centre and another in the bottom corner of the tailgate. The automaker also put a ‘3.8s’ badge under the ‘BYD Seal’ lettering to let the tailgaters know how fast this car can sprint from 0 to 100 km/j. This isn’t necessary and makes the Seal look cheap.

There’s a large panoramic roof, but…

The Seal comes standard with a large panoramic sunroof, which offers great views at night but can turn the cabin into a sauna during the day when the sun is directly overhead.

Surprisingly, the car lacks a power sunshade for the panoramic sunroof. Instead, BYD provides two piece of sunshades that have to be manually placed, which is quite annoying for a car costing nearly RM200,000.

Overly sophisticated controls

This writer is aware that in order to design a clutter-free, minimalist cabin, automakers try to minimise the amount of physical knobs and buttons as much as possible, and integrate the functions into the infotainment system.

But it needs to be said that not all vehicle functions need to be digitised. One good example is the air-conditioning system. In the Seal, even the AC vents adjustment is done via the large display. Sometimes, less is more.

Slow charging

Despite using a 800V architecture commonly found in luxury EV models, Seal only supports fast charging up to 150 kW, which lower than many other 800V EVs on the market.

For AC charging, the Malaysian-spec Seal can only support up to 7 kW, taking approximately 15 hours for a full charge, whereas in Europe, this model comes with an 11 kW AC charger.

Limited boot space

Despite its longer and wider dimensions compared to most C-segment sedans, Seal has a relatively small boot space of only 400 litres. There’s an additional 53-litre storage space under the bonnet but it’s not that spacious.

In comparison, the Model 3 has a whopping 682 litres of boot space while the B-segment sedan Honda City offers 519 litres of storage space in the back.

NEWS

UMW Toyota sold more than 9,000 cars in July

UMW Toyota Motor Sdn Bhd (UMWT) achieved robust sales performance in July 2024, with a total monthly sale of over 9,000 units. This brings the total year-to-date sales to more than 55,800 units as of July 2024.

This strategic focus on innovation and customer satisfaction has driven successful initiatives and promotions, culminating in this sales milestone.

Building on this momentum, UMWT has expanded its Lexus lineup with the introduction of two exciting new models last month, the Lexus RZ 450e and the Lexus LBX, deepening their focus with the “More than Electric” campaign, highlighting the dedication to a broad electrification strategy that includes both hybrid and fully electric vehicles.

Datuk Ravindran K., President of UMWT, stated, “Our July sales performance is a testament to our strategic approach and the trust our customers place in us. We are committed to continuously delivering exceptional value and innovative mobility solutions that meet the evolving needs of our customers.”

As part of their commitment to enhancing the buying experience, UMWT introduced the “Discover Merdeka Exclusives” promo for August 2024.

Car buyers could enjoy broad promotional savings, including promo worth up to RM8,000 for the Corolla Cross Hybrid Electric, with monthly purchase instalments starting from only RM1,058.

The Toyota Service Savers program further offers convenient monthly instalments starting from as low as RM31.

UMWT is set to celebrate Malaysia’s independence with the Merdeka Showroom Weekender, a patriotic-themed event happening on August 17 and 18, 2024.

This nationwide event will take place at all Toyota showrooms from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, offering visitors the chance to test drive popular Toyota models such as Vios, Yaris, Corolla Cross Hybrid Electric, Hilux and provided opportunities for community involvement and engagement.

Additionally, attendees can explore trade-in and pre-owned car options from Topmark outlets.

TIPS

Beginner’s guide to types of automatic transmission

It cannot be denied that driving a manual car provides a satisfaction that is sometimes hard to put into words. With the ability to row your own gears at any time, a manual transmission will give you a sense of control, enjoyment, and freedom.

However, with the advancement of technology and the increasingly heavier traffic conditions especially in urban areas, automatic transmission seems a more sensible option for daily use. Not only is it easier to operate, but modern AT is generally able to change gears quicker and more smoothly.

Did you know that there are several types of automatic transmissions used in modern cars? Let’s take a look:

Torque Converter

This is the most common conventional automatic transmission found in cars. The torque converter refers to the device used to transmit power from the engine to the gearbox and then to the wheels.

Unlike mechanical clutches with a physical connection, it uses a dense hydraulic fluid to ensure power (or torque) from the engine to the gearbox. It’s this fluid that allows for smooth gear changes.

In the past, this type of transmission was not very efficient in terms of power delivery, but thanks to continuous research and development from manufacturers, modern versions on the market today are much better.

Dual-Clutch Transmission (DCT)

Dual-clutch transmission, or DCT, was first introduced through the Volkswagen Golf R32 in 2003. As the name suggests, it uses two clutches, one for even gears (2,4,6, and so on) and another for odd gears (1,3,5,7, and so on).

Why? To enable faster shift times, of course. For instance, if you are accelerating in fourth gear, the gearbox will line up the other clutch in preparation to shift to fifth gear. The same goes if you’re slowing down. If you are braking in fourth gear, it will be ready to downshift to third.

This allows the DCT to shift gears quickly, whether you are accelerating or decelerating. However, it tends to be jerky, especially when the car is moving at low speeds.

Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)

Among the most talked-about transmissions today, CVT uses a pair of cone-shaped pulleys – one connected to the engine and the other to the driveshaft. The pulleys are connected to one another by a belt.

This gives the CVT an infinite gear ratio, allowing the engine to remain in the power band (the range of operating speeds under which the engine generates the most power) when you step on the accelerator pedal.

This results in powerful and smooth accelerations, but at the same time, a CVT can be rather noisy to the point that it affects the driving experience.

Automated Manual Transmission (AMT)

Also known as semi-automatic or robotised manual gearbox, AMT works and has similar mechanisms to the manual transmission but the clutch is operated through electrohydraulic means using actuators, sensors, and more.

This means that AMT offers the convenience of a conventional automatic gearbox while allowing the driver to shift gears manually if they wish.

This type of transmission became popular in the 90s and early 2000s thanks to high-performance cars like the Ferrari 355 and BMW M3. However, it’s infamous for being jerky when changing gears.

NEWS

Proton opens new regional parts centre in Sabah to meet growing demand

PROTON has announced the launch of its regional parts centre (RPC) at Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, following the establishment of a similar facility in Sarawak last year.

It is capable of reducing lead for spare parts time by 30% on the back of increased output capacity from Proton Parts Centre Sdn Bhd (PPCSB) in West Malaysia and direct overseas shipment.

Proton says the new RPC is to meet the growing demand in Sabah, which is its third highest state for vehicle sales in Malaysia.

Tucked away in a commercial area in Inanam, the new facility boasts a built-up floor space of approximately 28,000 sq ft, which is 2.5 times bigger than its previous location. It can receive up to six containers of parts on site simultaneously, up from two containers previously.

It is currently processing an average of 26 containers per month to fully utilise its capability to store up to three months of stock. With more storage spaces for parts, lead times to deliver to dealerships and customers could be reduced.

The company adds that its RPCs in East Malaysia can handle up to 28 containers from West Malaysia and overseas per month, an increase in capacity from the previous limit of 24 containers per month.

PPCSB also deployed a new warehouse management system (WMS) at all its locations earlier this year, enabling the daily delivery capacity at the new RPC to jump 66% to 300 lines in July from 180 lines previously, with a maximum capacity of 400 lines slated to be achieved by September.

The added space also allows the allocation of 8,500 bins to store parts, up from 5,000 bins in the previous facilities. As a result, the stock value is expected to increase 1.5 times to RM9 million by December 2024, up from RM5.8 million a year earlier.

On the sales front, Proton’s market share in Sabah has ascended steadily from 10% in 2018 to 25.9% in 2023 and currently stands at 27.4% year-to-date for 2024.

In 2023, sales of Proton vehicles in East Malaysia contributed 15.8% to the company’s total sales volume. The top three Proton models sold were the Saga with 13,700 units followed by the Persona with 4,264 and the X50 with 2,955 units, respectively.

NEWS

7 most iconic rebadged Proton models

The word “rebadge” has quite a negative connotation among car enthusiasts in Malaysia. For them, rebadging is considered a somewhat shameful practice that should not be done by any aspiring car manufacturer.

But little do they know that rebadging has certain advantages that can help a company grow in the early stages of its business.

The main upside of rebadging is that it helps companies save on R&D costs. Developing a vehicle from scratch requires massive investment, and not all brands, especially new ones, are willing to break the bank as they do not want to face the risk of heavy losses.

So thanks to the magic of rebadging, companies not only can reduce R&D expenses but they are also able to sell their products at a much more affordable price to entice their target market.

For Proton, this has been the path taken since its inception in 1983. With Mitsubishi as a technical partner at that time, the national car manufacturer finally launched its first car, the Proton Saga, just two years after it was founded.

Fast forward today after nearly 40 years since the first Proton car was introduced, Proton is still in the business of rebadging cars but its involvement in the entire process is more profound, with the company taking part not only in design but vehicle tuning as well.

So without further ado, let’s take a walk down memory lane and look at the seven most iconic rebadged Proton models ever offered:

Saga

The car that started it all for Proton. Launched by Tun Mahathir, the Saga was based on the Mitsubishi Lancer Fiore and sold until 1992 before being replaced by the Saga Iswara. It is currently in its third generation but now uses Proton’s very own platform.

Wira

The second rebadged model from Proton, which was produced for 16 years from 1993 to 2009. Based on the 1991 Lancer, it was available as a four-door sedan or a five-door hatchback known as the Aeroback. It had several notable versions like 1.8 EXI Limited (C99) and the ultra-rare Sembilu, which sadly never saw the light of day.

Satria

The first-generation Satria was produced from 1994 to 2006 using the Mitsubishi Mirage Cyborg as its base. This hatchback spawned two highly sought-after, performance-oriented versions co-developed with Lotus, namely the Satria GTi and Satria R3. It was later replaced by the Satria Neo, which was sold until 2015.

Putra

Photo: Wikipedia

The Putra was a surprise addition to Proton’s lineup because at that time nobody thought a newcomer like Proton had the cojones to offer a coupe. It was based on the Mitsubishi Mirage Asti and was only available with the 1.8-litre 4G93P engine that was also used in the Wira 1.8 EXI Limited and Satria GTi.

Arena

Photo: wheel-size.my

Also known as Jumbuck in international markets, the Arena was essentially a Wira that was cut in half and joined by a pickup truck cargo bed. In Malaysia, the Arena was offered in three variants – Freestyle, Sportdeck, and Fastback, each with different specifications to meet various customer needs.

Juara

Photo: ProtonPro Facebook

Another rebadged model produced in collaboration with Mitsubishi, the Juara was a microvan based on the Mitsubishi Town Box Wide. Marketed as a lifestyle vehicle, it received a lukewarm reception leading Proton to halt sales in 2004, just three years after its launch.

X70

Launched at the end of 2018, the X70 is a crucial model in Proton’s history as it is the first product to emerge after the merger with Geely, and also the first-ever SUV for Proton. Fair to say that the X70 is single-handedly responsible for restoring customer confidence in the national car manufacturer.