SIME Darby Motors (SDM) recently announced that it has received over 1,300 bookings for the BYD Seal within four days after its launch.
Due to the overwhelming demand for the electric sedan, SDM has extended its early booking campaign until 3 March 2024.
Through this campaign, customers who place a booking for the Seal through the official website or at BYD showrooms nationwide before the 3rd of March will receive a complimentary home charger and RM800 worth of Gentari/ChargEV charging credit.
Seal is offered in two variants, namely Premium and Performance, with prices starting at RM179,800 and RM199,800 respectively.
The Premium variant comes with a single electric motor on the rear axle producing 313 PS and 360 Nm, enabling it to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.9 seconds.
Meanwhile, the Performance variant features a dual-motor configuration generating a total power of 530 PS and 670 Nm. With all-wheel drive (AWD), it only takes 3.8 seconds to accelerate from 0-100 km/h.
Both variants use the same 82.56 kWh LFP Blade battery but the Premium gets a driving range of 650 km while the more powerful Performance has 580 km of range. Both figures are based on the NEDC cycle.
THREE years ago, McLaren took the covers off the Artura, its first series-production High Performance Hybrid supercar. Now, the range has been further expanded with the introduction of the convertible version called the Artura Spider.
McLaren says the Spider has significant upgrades over the original model, including more power, more performance and greater driver engagement.
First and foremost, the 3.0-litre V6 hybrid engine has been reworked to bump up the total system output by 20 PS to 700 PS. Torque remains at a healthy 720 Nm but its delivery has been optimised thanks to minor changes to electronic mapping.
The engine is paired with an electric motor housed in the gearbox. The motor generates 95 PS and 225 Nm, and is coupled with a 7.4 kWh capacity battery that provides an electric range of up to 33 km.
With a recalibrated eight-speed transmission, the Artura Spider can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.0 seconds and from 0 to 200 km/h in 8.4 seconds. Despite being a convertible, it can reach a maximum speed of 330 km/h.
The powertrain benefits from new mounts that are tuned to improve control within the chassis. This limits powertrain movement, especially when under load and in turn improves stability, steering feel and overall vehicle agility.
The Artura Spider uses a retractable one-piece hard-top that operates electrically in just 11 seconds, at speeds of up to 50km/h. It has a kerb weight of 1,560 kg, just 62 kg more than the Artura coupe.
To provide a full convertible experience, McLaren has fitted a revised valved exhaust system incorporating a tuned resonator and upward conical shape to the tailpipes to further refine the engine note at the middle and higher points of the rev range.
An optional sports exhaust system is available, should the buyers want an enhanced, clearer tone overall. This system uses an exhaust symposer that channels authentic sound waves from the tailpipe into the cabin.
Ride and handling is enhanced through revised response rates of the Proactive Damping Control suspension system. The rates have been increased by up to 90%, improving reaction to driver input and changes in road surface.
For braking, the Artura Spider utilises carbon ceramic discs measuring 390 mm at the front and 380 mm at the rear. Each are coupled with six- and four-piston aluminum monobloc calipers, respectively.
VOLKSWAGEN Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM) has officially launched the Volkswagen Touareg R-Line, marking the re-entry of the flagship SUV into the local market after more than a decade.
We’re getting the facelifted third-generation model introduced globally in May of last year, in a sole R-Line variant.
The Touareg R-Line is locally assembled in Pekan, Pahang, and comes with a rather hefty price tag of RM469,990, including the Volkswagen Assurance Package (VAP).
The Touareg has a more aggressive look thanks to the R-Line package, redesigned front section, ‘R’ insignias on the doors and grille, and 20-inch Braga alloy wheels.
The design of the rear end is also sharper with its continuous horizontal LED strip for the taillight clusters. The rear VW logo is now illuminated in red, a first as this was previously only available in markets such as China and the US.
There are also new IQ.Light HD Matrix headlights, which have more than 38,000 interactive micro-LEDs to illuminate the road more precisely than ever before. In addition, entry and exit puddle lighting illuminates the ground by the doors with the Volkswagen logo.
Taking centrestage inside is the Innovision Cockpit, which consists of a 12.3-inch Digital Cockpit instrument display in front of the driver and a 15-inch touchscreen featuring the Discover Pro Max infotainment system and Wireless App-Connect.
Other creature comforts include wireless charging, five USB-C Type C ports with 45W capacity, four-zone air conditioning, Active Climate seats for the driver and front passenger, and the 730W Dynaudio Consequence audio system with an 80W amplifier and 13 speakers including a subwoofer.
The Touareg R-Line is powered by a 3.0-litre V6 TSI engine producing a respectable 340 PS and 450 Nm, delivered to the wheels via an 8-speed automatic transmission and the 4Motion all-wheel-drive system.
Air suspension with Automatic Self-Levelling is standard. Aside from providing comfort, it automatically adapts the vehicle height to match terrain conditions and can lower the ride height by 40 mm for easier loading or unloading of cargo. Wading level is an impressive 550 mm.
Safety-wise, the Touareg comes equipped with the IQ.Drive system offering features such as Adaptive Cruise Control, Autonomous Emergency Braking Front Assist, Automatic Post-Collision Braking, Lane Assist, Lane Keeping, Park Assist, Front Cross Traffic Assist, and Rear Cross Traffic Alert.
Also included is Night Vision, which provides uses an infrared sensor in the camera to detect thermal signatures from humans or animals up to 130 metres ahead to keep the driver aware of potential collision.
The Touareg is available in five exterior colours, namely Lapiz Blue, Silicon Gray, Grenadilla Black, Oryx White and Dolomite Silver.
The aforementioned Volkswagen Assurance Package includes five years free maintenance, five years unlimited mileage warranty, and five years complimentary roadside assistance.
VOLVO is standardising the names for two of its fully electric models, the XC40 Recharge and C40 Recharge, in line with its transformation towards becoming a fully electric car manufacturer by 2030.
Effective immediately, said models are renamed to EX40 and EC40 respectively, following in the footsteps of other Volvo fully electric models, which are the EX30, EX90 and EM90. The XC40 name remains for internal combustion-powered variants of the model.
The update also includes the removal of Recharge badging from Volvo’s plug-in hybrid models, which are now denoted simply by the T6 or T8 suffix indicating different levels of power output.
The new and streamlined model name standard makes it even easier for existing and new customers to understand which of the Volvo models are fully electric and which are hybrids.
The Swedish automaker is also introducing a new Performance software pack for the EX40 and EC40 Twin Motor variants, and as an upgrade for the previous model year in selected markets.
The Performance software pack, which increases power output by 25 kW (34 hp) for faster acceleration, also includes unique pedal mapping for quicker accelerator response and a ‘Performance’ drive mode to unlock the full 325 kW (436 hp).
In available markets, the Performance software will be offered as an optional upgrade pack via the Volvo Cars app when ordering a new car, while drivers of previous model year 2024 C40 and fully electric XC40 Recharge can purchase and download the software from the comfort of their sofa.
Additionally, B5 mild hybrid petrol variants of XC60 and XC90 now employ a more efficient engine combustion cycle, expected to result in CO2 emission reductions and fuel economy improvements of up to around 4% for the XC60 and around 2% for the XC90 based on the WLTP cycle.
There are also a special Black Edition of the EX40, EC40 and the XC40. The Black Edition models come with Onyx Black paint, high gloss black badging, 20-inch five-spoke alloys in high gloss black and the choice between microtech or textile charcoal interiors.
THE Ford Ranger lineup for the European market has been further expanded with the introduction of a new sporty variant called the Ranger MS-RT.
The latest offering from Blue Oval is developed in collaboration with M-Sport (Ford’s partner in rally), but don’t expect it to come with any more power as upgrades are limited to aesthetics.
That being said, the Ranger MS-RT is guaranteed to turn heads with its motorsport-inspired styling. At the front, there’s a honeycomb grille and integrated splitter inspired by extreme Ranger racing trucks that compete in Asia.
The side profile appears lower thanks to sculpted side skirts, while the rear is adorned with an integrated diffuser. The rear tailgate comes with MS-RT graphics and a ducktail spoiler, which is complemented by a cab spoiler.
You may not realise, but the Ranger MS-RT is 82 mm wider than the standard version. The bulging fenders are matched with 21-inch diamond-cut rims wrapped in low-profile 275/45 tyres – the largest wheels ever to be offered on a Ranger.
The interior displays new seats that not only look sportier but also offer better support. They are upholstered in eco-leather and suede with distinctive MS-RT pattern and blue stitching.
Other features include a sports steering wheel with heating and a blue 12 o’clock marker, a 12-inch touchscreen with SYNC 4 infotainment system, dual-zone automatic air conditioning, Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control, and Intelligent Speed Limiter.
Under the hood, there’s a 3.0-litre V6 turbodiesel engine making 240 PS and 600 Nm. It’s paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and the new e4WD all-wheel-drive system also found in other Ranger variants.
Despite not getting any additional power, the Ranger MS-RT promises better handling through new, firmer front dampers and retuned rear suspension. Its height has also been reduced by 40 mm, giving the truck a more aggressive stance and greater handling and stability through corners.
More importantly, its capability as a pickup truck remains intact. It can still carry loads of up to 1,000 kg and has a towing capacity of up to 3,500 kg.
THE Geneva Motor Show 2024 saw the unveiling of the Denza D9, marking the entry of the sub-brand into the European market.
For your information, Denza is a joint venture between BYD and Mercedes-Benz. The influence of the German car manufacturer is rather evident on the exterior and interior of the luxury people-mover.
Specifications for the European market have not been revealed yet, but it is expected to be similar to the Chinese market version, where the D9 is offered in plug-in hybrid and electric versions.
The PHEV version features a 1.5-litre petrol engine producing 137 hp/231 Nm, and a single electric motor with 228 hp/340 Nm on the front axle. This combination generates a total power of 296 hp/571 Nm, allowing it to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 9.5 seconds.
With the addition of a rear electric motor, the AWD model enjoys a significantly higher output of 401 hp/681 Nm and a faster 0-100 km/h acceleration of 7.9 seconds.
On the other hand, the electric version of the D9 is driven by a front axle electric motor producing 308 hp and 360 Nm of torque. This version takes 9.5 seconds to reach a speed of 100 km/h.
Customers can also opt for the AWD model packing 369 hp and 470 Nm. The higher output reduces the 0-100 km/h acceleration time to just 6.9 seconds.
Both variants use a 103.4 kWh LFP Blade battery that provides a driving range of around 600 km for the AWD model and 620 km for the FWD model. These figures are based on the CLTC cycle.
Like most luxury MPVs currently in the market, the D9 has a boxy shape, electric sliding doors, and a large grille – with different designs to distinguish between the PHEV and EV versions.
Its size is also similar to its closest competitors, with a length of 5,250 mm, a width of 1,960 mm, a height of 1,920 mm, and a wheelbase of 3,110 mm.
Its large dimensions (larger than the LM) provide the D9 with spacious interior space, with almost every nook and cranny wrapped in luxurious leather.
The D9 features a 2-2-3 configuration with captain seats in the second row. You’ll find the cabin packed with plenty of features including a rear-seat entertainment system, control panels for the second-row seats, LED ambient lighting, a mini fridge, and a Dynaudio audio system.
According to reports, the D9 will be available in the European market by the end of this year.
THE competition in the electric supercar segment is about to heat up with the arrival of a new competitor from BYD’s luxury arm YangWang.
Simply called U9, the electric supercar is priced 1.68 million RMB (RM1.12 million) in its home market, with delivery set to commence this summer. The U9 made its first appearance in January last year, alongside the U8 SUV.
Like the SUV, the U9 is built on the e4 Platform featuring four electric motors, one powering each wheel. The setup gives the U9 a mind-boggling total output of 1,300 hp and 1,680 Nm.
It goes without saying that this is the fastest car ever produced by BYD so far. 0-100 km/h accelaration takes just 2.36 seconds, while the maximum speed is rated at 309.19 km/h.
Crazy numbers but the drawback is that driving range but the performance means some range has to be sacrificed. BYD claims a range of just 450 km based on the lenient CLTC cycle.
The U9’s 80 kWh LFP battery supports dual-plug charging at capacities of up to 500 kW, which takes 10 minutes to refill the battery from 10% to 80%. It can also be charged via a 7 kW AC charger, which takes about seven hours to complete a 10-80% charge.
The U9 has 12 sets of active and passive aerodynamic packages to reduce drag coefficient and enhance heat dissipation efficiency. It is also equipped with the iSus-X Intelligent body control system, which can raise the suspension by up to 75 mm at a speed of 500 mm per second.
Needless to say, the unique suspension system makes the U9 more agile in corners, but as you may have seen before, it also allows the supercar to “dance” and “jump”. Not only that, with one motor on each wheel, this car can also perform a tank turn.
Inside, the U9 uses the DiLink150 platform powered by a 5G chip. Specifically designed for track driving, it boasts an intelligent racing assistantance, providing extensive track driving services with detailed information on nearly 30 racetracks across China.
Other creature comforts include a 14-way adjustment for the driver and passenger seats, Dynaudio Evidence high-end audio system, and ambient lighting system with 127 colour options, to name a few.
POWERED by an 8.0-litre quad-turbo W16 engine that packs 1,850 PS and 1,850 Nm, the Bugatti Bolide is an insanely fast track car.
But to set the fastest lap times, sheer power alone won’t be enough because a car also needs powerful brakes. This is where Brembo comes into the picture.
For the Bolide project, Brembo racing engineers worked in close collaboration with Bugatti to develop a unique brake system that could match the car’s colossal power.
Following two years of demanding testing and development, they came up with a carbon-carbon system that is on par with the technology that goes into LMh/LMDh and Formula 1 machinery.
At the front, there are 390 x 37.5 mm carbon discs clamped by two eight-piston monobloc calipers, each with four high-performance pads 25 mm thick. According to Bugatti, the front brakes are Brembo’s largest carbon-carbon brake ever.
At the rear, Bugatti uses two six-piston monobloc calipers paired with 390 x 34 mm carbon discs. These calipers also have four pads but slightly thinner at 24.5 mm. While not as big as their front counterparts, the rear brake system’s specifications match that of the LMDh racing class.
The presence of this carbon-ceramic brake system not only gives the Bolide adequate braking power but also helps reduce its overall weight, with each disc weighing only 3.175 kg.
Interestingly, Brembo engineers also helped designed the air ducts on the Bolide to enhance cooling. As a result, 85-90% of the airflow is directed to the discs and pads, with a smaller portion reaching the calipers.
GENTARI Sdn Bhd through its subsidiary Gentari Green Mobility Sdn Bhd has launched Gentari Go, a mobile application where the company’s clean energy ecosystem are integrated into a single platform.
Designed to be the companion for consumers looking to transition to clean energy, Gentari Go is now activated in Malaysia with a regional rollout planned for Southeast Asia and India in 2024.
In addition to providing consumers access to over 70% of charging points in Malaysia, Gentari Go enables cross-border charging from Singapore to Thailand in partnership with regional Charging Point Operators (CPOs) such as CDG Engie, City Energy Go and EVolt as well as charging point management provider Virta.
These partnerships enable access to over 2,000 chargers across Malaysia, Singapore and Thailand.
For those without an EV, the app offers the option to rent an EV through its partnership with GoCar to help consumers make the critical leap from Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) vehicles to Electric Vehicles (EV).
Gentari Go also incorporates Gentari’s renewable energy pillar, supported by home energy solutions such as EV home charging as well as solar.
The app is currently available for download via the Apple App Store and Google Play Store. In conjunction with the launch, customers can enjoy a 10% discount on their next 10 charging transactions right from the app.
BMW Malaysia has announced updates to the BMW iX range for the model year 2024.
Starting now, the fully electric SUV will be offered in only two variants, namely the xDrive50 Sport and M60. This means that the xDrive40 and xDrive40 Sport variants have been discontinued.
With this update, the iX xDrive50 Sport follows in the footstep of the M60 by gaining a 22 kW AC charging, which is capable of reducing the charging time to under 5 hours 30 minutes for a complete 0 to 100% charge.
Additionally, both variants continue to offer fast charging capabilities of up to 195 kW, allowing for 0-80% charging in just 35 minutes.
In addition to faster charging, the xDrive50 Sport variant also gets the dual-axle air suspension system that absorbs road imperfections with precision for a more refined driving experience. The BMW Iconic Sounds Electric is also included as a standard feature.
There are no changes in terms of performance and driving range. The iX xDrive50 Sport, with its 523 hp/765 Nm twin-motor setup, can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.6 seconds. The WLTP cycle-based driving range is 630 km.
Meanwhile, the iX M60 also features twin electric motors but with a significantly higher output of 619 hp/1,015 Nm (1,100 Nm with Launch Control). It takes 3.8 seconds to reach 100 km/h and can cover a distance of up to 561 km on a full charge.
The iX’s cabin now features the Live Cockpit Professional powered by BMW Operating System 8.5, a 12.3-inch instrument cluster, a 14.9-inch central screen, multifunction seats, wireless charging, and four-zone automatic air conditioning.
However, the previously available Bower & Wilkins Diamond audio system with 30 speakers, which was present in the M60, seems to have been replaced with the Harman Kardon audio system featuring 18 speakers.
Another standard feature included in this update is the Comfort Access, now featuring BMW Digital Key Plus. This digital key can be shared with up to five compatible devices allowing for convenience to the ownership experience.
For colour options, the iX is available in Alpine White, Mineral White Metallic, Black Sapphire Metallic, Sophisto Grey Metallic with Brilliant Effect, Phytonic Blue Metallic, Oxide Grey Metallic, and Blue Ridge Mountain Metallic.
For an additional RM6,200, customers can opt for the Aventurine Red Metallic and Individual Storm Bay Metallic shades.
For the interior, BMW Malaysia offers the Interior Design Atelier upholstery in Mocha or Black as standard. Two additional colours, Amido and Castanea, are available for an additional RM17,300.
The starting price is RM465,800 for the xDrive50 Sport variant and RM579,800 for the M60. A five-year extended warranty and service package are available for RM33,200.
In 2020, Cyan Racing pulled the cover off the Volvo P1800 Cyan as a track-inspired homage to the iconic Volvo sports car from the sixties.
However, with bucket seats and a titanium safety cage, the car was a proper street-legal track that could be a little too hardcore for some.
Now, Cyan Racing is back with a new version of the car that is developed to be a grand tourer. Known as the P1800 Cyan GT, it comes with a fully adjustable suspension now set up for winding country roads and comfortable long-distance driving.
The car also has a different version of the titanium roll cage for increased comfort, but with a maintained high level of safety and chassis rigidity.
The cabin looks significantly more comfortable now thanks to be spoke touring seats and sand-coloured leather and fabric upholstery. The amount of sound deadening material has also been increased to improve NVH.
Much like the standard version, the P1800 Cyan GT is powered by a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine paired with a five-speed Holinger gearbox that offers “excellent precision and feeling”.
That being said, the power has been dialled down slightly from 414 hp to 345 hp. Cyan Racing claims the reduced output is to prioritise enjoyable driving rather than raw power.
The P1800 Cyan GT will be offered in limited numbers, with each unit taking approximately 12 to 15 months to be completed.
All Volvo P1800 Cyans are restored and modified from an original Volvo P1800 by the fabricators, engineers, designers and mechanics at the Cyan headquarters in Gothenburg, Sweden.
THE much anticipated Chery Omoda E5 is now officially open for booking ahead of its official launch scheduled in March.
Those interested can take a closer look at the pure electric crossover at Chery showrooms nationwide.
With an estimated price of RM160,000, the Omoda E5 features a single electric motor on the front axle generating 201 hp and 340 Nm of torque.
It also comes with a 61 kWh lithium iron phosphate blade battery that offers a driving range of up to 430 km according to the WLTP cycle.
For charging, the Omoda E5 supports 9.9 kW AC charging and DC charging at a capacity of up to 80 kW, the latter capable of replenishing the battery from 30% to 80% in just 30 minutes.
On the inside, it boasts a 24.6-inch curved 2K high-definition screen which utilises Qualcomm chip for seamless human-vehicle interaction. Also included is the Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) function.
Chery Malaysia claims the Omoda E5 has also excelled the Water Crossing Test and the Bottom Scraping Test, proving its capability to overcome various obstacles and ensuring a safer driving experience.
AT long last, the BYD Seal hasbeen officially launched in the Malaysian market. It is the third BYD electric vehicle (EV) to be introduced into the country by Sime Darby Motors, following the Atto 3 and Dolphin.
For our market, the fully electric sedan from the Ocean Series lineup is offered in two variants, namely Premium and Performance, with prices starting at RM179,800 and RM199,800 respectively.
The Premium variant comes with a single electric motor on the rear axle producing 313 PS and 360 Nm, enabling it to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.9 seconds.
Meanwhile, the Performance variant features a dual-motor configuration generating a total power of 530 PS and 670 Nm. With all-wheel drive (AWD), it only takes 3.8 seconds to accelerate from 0-100 km/h.
Additionally, the range-topping variant is equipped with Intelligent Torque Adaption Control (iTAC) and Frequency Selective Damping (FSD) shock absorbers on the front and rear.
Both variants use the same 82.56 kWh LFP Blade battery but the Premium gets a driving range of 650 km while the more powerful Performance has 580 km of range. Both figures are based on the NEDC cycle.
For charging, the Seal comes standard with a 7 kW AC charger taking 15.2 hours for a 0-100% charge. It also supports DC fast charging up to 150 kW, capable of charging from 10% to 80% in 37 minutes.
The list of features between the two variants is somewhat similar. For the exterior, standard features include LED front and rear lights, LED daytime running lights, soundproof double-glazed glass for the windshield and front doors, and 19-inch alloy rims.
Malaysian buyers will be able to choose from four exterior colours – Cosmos White, Aurora White, Atlantis Grey, and Arctic Blue. However, Arctic Blue is exclusive to the Performance variant.
Inside, you will find leather upholstery, eight-way power-adjustable and four-way lumbar support for the driver’s seat, heating and ventilation for the front seats, dual-zone air conditioning, and a PM2.5 air filtration system in both variants.
The infotainment system includes a 15.6-inch rotating touchscreen, a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, two wireless chargers, four USB ports, and a Dynaudio audio system with 12 speakers.
The driver assistance system is the same for both variants, consisting of Adaptive Cruise Control, Automatic Emergency Braking, Lane Departure Warning, Lane Departure Prevention, Emergency Lane Keeping Assist, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Blind Spot Detection, among others.
The Seal comes with a six-year/150,000 km vehicle warranty, an eight-year/160,000 km battery warranty, and an eight-year/150,000 km drive unit warranty.
To sweeten the deal, the first 800 buyers will receive a free wallbox charger and RM800 worth of Gentari/ChargEV charging credits.
THE Mercedes-Benz C-Class W206 lineup for the Malaysian market has been further expanded with the addition of a new plug-in hybrid variant, the C350e.
According to paultan.org, the new variant replaces the C300 AMG Line that was launched alongside the C200 Avantgarde back in 2022. Like both variants, the C350e is locally assembled in Pekan, Pahang.
Powering the C350e is a 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine that produces 204 hp at 6,100 rpm and 320 Nm from 2,000 to 4,000 rpm. It is paired with an electric motor generating 95 kW and 440 Nm, providing the sedan with a total output of 313 hp and 550 Nm.
With a 9G-Tronic transmission driving the rear wheels, the C350e can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 6.1 seconds and hit a maximum speed of 245 km/h.
The electric motor gets its juice from a 25.4 kWh capacity battery, developed developed in-house by Mercedes-Benz AG, enabling it to be driven up to 117 km on electric power alone. The maximum speed in this mode is 140 km/h.
The battery takes two hours to fully charge using an 11 kW AC charger. Included with the car is a mode 2 charging cable.
Kit-wise, the C350e comes with the AMG Line styling package, 18-inch AMG light alloy wheels, and the Night Package, which includes glossy black elements such as the louvre of the radiator shell, trim moulding in the AMG front apron, beltline trim strip and window surround, and exterior mirror housings.
This variant also comes standard with Digital Light with Adaptive Highbeam Assist Plus, a panoramic sunroof, and ambient lighting.
The interior is adorned with AMG Line trim, featuring metal structure trim elements, a Nappa leather-wrapped sport steering wheel, AMG floor mats, and sport seats with Artico leather upholstery in black.
The MBUX infotainment system consists of a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel, an 11.9-inch touchscreen, which is slightly tilted towards the driver by six degrees, as well as a wireless charger.
For safety systems, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia (MBM) includes a 360-degree camera, Blind Spot Assist, Active Brake Assist, Active Parking Assist with Parktronic, Guard 360°, and Pedestrian Protection.
According to MBM, the estimated selling price for the C350e is around RM355,000 on-the-road, excluding insurance.
EVER heard of Rezvani? It’s not a luxury fashion brand but a high-performance vehicle manufacturer based in California that was founded back in 2013.
The company’s first model, called the Beast, was an Ariel Atom-based sports car that boasted 700 hp. Fast forward to present day, they have introduced a new car that uses the same name but this one is a whole different…well, beast.
Unlike the original Beast, the second-generation model is based on the C8 Chevrolet Corvette but thanks to its distinctive razor-thin headlamps, dihedral doors and stacked exhaust tips, it doesn’t look anything like the ‘Vette.
Rezvani says that the Beast has “a lightweight body made with special carbon fibre using high-temperature resins that are used in the latest generation of US fighter jets”. The combo contributes to a weight reduction of nearly 300 kg, bringing the total weight to about 1,352 kg.
Inside, everything looks pretty standard save for the sloping row of buttons that has been removed, and the upper part of the steering wheel which has been sawed off to resemble an aircraft’s yoke.
The original 6.2-liter V8 engine remains, but Rezvani has thrown in a pair of turbochargers to boost power output to 1,000 hp (1,014 PS) and 1,190 Nm of torque.
Paired with an 8-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT), the Beast can accelerate from 0 to 96 km/h in just 2.5 seconds and achieve quarter-mile sprints in 9.6 seconds.
The figures might turn heads but what’s even more exciting is that customers can opt for a ‘007’ package that includes a slew of gadgets such as a smoke screen, run-flat tyres, thermal night vision system, electromagnetic pulse protection, explosive device detection, electric door handles, an intercom system, gas masks, an emergency aid kit, hypothermia kit, pepper spray, and strobe lights.
Additionally, Rezvani also bulletproof glass and armoured body panels for those who seek extra protection.
Only 20 units of the Rezvani Beast will be produced, with prices starting at $485,000 (RM2.3 million) or $585,000 (RM2.8 million) with the 007 and ballistic protection packages included.
FANS of the late Ken Block will remember his insane Porsche 911 dubbed the Hoonipigasus, which was built to conquer the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb. The company that built the car, Scarbo Vintage, is now back with an equally bonkers truck called the SV Rover.
Claimed to be the world’s first street-legal hypertruck, the SV Rover appears to be a mashup between the classic Land Rover Defender and the Lamborghini LM002. According to Scarbo, the bodywork is made out of aluminium and carbon fibre.
The interior is luxuriously appointed with Alcantara trim, billet aluminum accents, and modern amenities such as a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, a 12.8-inch infotainment display, paddle shifters, and an engine start button.
Customers can choose between a V8 supercharged engine producing 1,100 hp with an 8-speed automatic transmission or an electric powertrain with a 75-kWh battery generating 1,005 hp.
Regardless of the powertrain chosen, the SV Rover comes with a 4WD system, high and low-range transfer case, and selectable front- and rear-locking differentials.
It is equipped with pushrod suspension at the front and rear, providing an impressive 30 inches of wheel travel.
Additionally, the truck is equipped with 20-inch forged rims wrapped in 40-inch tyres, air ride suspension with user-adjustable height control and valving, as well as adjustable dampers. The braking system comprises 400 mm carbon ceramic rotors and six-piston Brembo calipers.
Needless to say, the SV Rover is only for the truly rich, with each unit costing $1.5 million (RM7.2 million) excluding customisation optins.
The AMG Green Hell Magno is an exclusive paintwork created by Mercedes-AMG as a tribute to the famous Nurburgring Nordschleife, which bears the nickname “Green Hell.”
The unique colour made its debut back in 2018 with the Mercedes-AMG GT R. Now, the same eye-searing shade will be offered in the form of the A45 S Limited Edition.
Interestingly, despite being labeled as a ‘Limited Edition’, the production of this model will not be limited but it will only be available until the end of 2024.
What makes the A45 S Limited Edition stand out compared to the standard version? In addition to the distinctive colour, it also features yellow accents, glossy black highlights, and a large “A45 S” lettering on the doors.
The hot hatch also rolls on matte black 19-inch AMG forged wheels in a seven-twin-spoke design. If that’s not enough, Mercedes is also offering three equipment packages – the AMG Night Package, the AMG Night Package II, and rhe AMG Aerodynamics Package.
The AMG Night Package brings black and high-gloss black design elements such as the front splitter, side mirrors, beltline, and dark-tinted window surfaces from the B-pillar.
The AMG Night Package II adds darkened struts on the radiator trim black detailing on the radiator trim, as well as the black chrome typography on the front fenders and tailgate, the Mercedes star and exclusive to the edition the door handles and the Mercedes stars in the wheel hub caps.
The AMG Aerodynamics Package is particularly eye-catching as it contains special add-on parts and a fixed AMG rear wing developed in the wind tunnel. According to Mercedes, the package increases contact pressure and improves driving characteristics at high speeds.
Inside, you will find the same black and yellow theme as on the exterior, along with Artico leather and Microcut microfiber upholstery wrapping the AMG Performance seats and steering wheel. The headrests of the seats also bear the embroidered 4S S lettering.
Unfortunately, the A45 S Limited Edition gets no performance enhancements. The turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine continues to put out 421 hp and 500 Nm, making the A45 S the most powerful hot hatch in the world.
With an 8-speed automatic transmission and the 4Matic+ all-wheel-drive system, it can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.9 seconds before reaching a top speed of 270 km/h.
DAIHATSU Motor Co. Ltd, which has been embroiled in a safety test scandal since last year, has announced a new structure that will take over the company’s leadership effective March 1.
The new leadership structure will see Daihatsu’s current chairman, Sunao Matsubayashi, and its current president, Soichiro Okudaira, stepping down from their positions.
Matsubayashi will be replaced by Masahiro Inoue, who is currently the Chief Executive Officer of Toyota Motor Corporation in Latin America and the Caribbean, while Okudaira’s position will be taken over by Masanori Kuwata, the head of the Lexus International Co’s electrification promotion project.
Meanwhile, the Deputy Chief Officer of Toyota Customer First Promotion, Keiko Yanagi, will replace Masahiro Yamamoto as a non-resident director of Daihatsu.
In a joint statement, Daihatsu and Toyota stated that they will implement comprehensive measures to prevent such manipulation from recurring and strive towards Daihatsu’s recovery.
“We would like to again offer our deepest apologies to our customers, suppliers, dealers, the communities in which our plants are located, and our many other stakeholders for the inconvenience and concern caused by the recent issue of certification irregularities.
“Although all plants of Daihatsu Motor Co., Ltd. (Daihatsu) in Japan suspended operations following our announcements made on December 20, we were able to resume production and shipments of some vehicles as of yesterday,” the company said.
In Malaysia, Tesla is much lauded by electric vehicle (EV) users and enthusiasts alike, but in South Korea, it’s an entirely different story.
According to a report by Free Malaysia Today, the Texas-based EV manufacturer only managed to sell one car, a Model Y, in January due to concerns about safety, pricing, and charging infrastructure.
Data from the Seoul-based research firm Carisyou and the Korea Ministry of Trade indicates that this marked Tesla’s worst sales performance since July 2022, when it sold no vehicles at all.
Carisyou also reported that the number of new EV registrations in the country declined by 80% in January 2023 compared to December 2022.
It is understood that the slow reception for EVs in South Korea is due to higher interest rates and inflation, which have forced consumers to restrain their spending.
Furthermore, concerns about battery fires and a shortage of fast chargers have also contributed to the decline in EV demand there.
Lee Hang-Koo, head of the Jeonbuk Institute of Automotive Convergence Technology said most Koreans who wanted a Tesla car have already bought one.
In fact, some Koreans dislike Tesla and are concerned about the quality of production after learning that some of them are made in China.
Lee also mentioned that many people avoided buying vehicles in January because they were waiting for the government’s announcement of subsidies.
THE Aston Martin Vantage has been on the market for about six years now, which means the two-seater sports car is ripe enough for an update.
For the 2025 model year, the Vantage draws inspiration from the One-77 supercar with a completely redesigned front-end featuring a larger grille and a body standing 30 mm wider.
According to Aston Martin, the grille offers 29% increase in mass airflow for additional cooling, assisted by air intakes in each corner of the front bumper. There’s also a new front splitter that provides high speed stability through lift reduction.
The interior showcases a completely new layout featuring slimmer AC vents and a 10.25-inch touchscreen, similar to the one found in the DB12.
The car comes with standard Aston Martin audio system with 11 speakers as well as override switches for Chassis, ESP and Exhaust, Lane Assist and Park Distance Control.
Alternatively, customers can opt for the 1,170-watt Bowers & Wilkins audio system that comes with a total of 15 speakers, a subwoofer, and aluminum tweeters.
The Vantage still retains the Mercedes-AMG 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 engine but the output has been bumped up to 665 PS and 800 Nm, representing an increase of 155 PS and 115 Nm than before.
The higher output is achieved through the use of modified cam profiles, optimised compression ratios, larger turbos, and increased cooling.
Paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission from ZF, the Vantage can accelerate from 0 to 96 km/h in 3.4 seconds and reach a top speed of 325 km/h.
Aston Martin says the standing start acceleration is aided by a new Launch Control system that channels as much torque as conditions allow, using the E-Diff, ESP slip control and engine torque management to keep wheel slip in the optimal range.
In addition to the more powerful engine, the Vantage also benefits from a bonded aluminum structure that provides a 50:50 weight distribution and increased torsional rigidity.
Not only that, the electronic power-assisted steering (EPAS) system has been retuned to provide the driver with more immediate and precise response.
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