Genting Simon Sdn Bhd has announced plans to install 500 EV chargers at Johor Premium Outlets, making it the largest fast-charging EV hub in Southeast Asia.
The company says the project addresses the rising demand for EV infrastructure while advancing technological solutions for sustainable mobility.
When fully operational, the EV chargers at Johor Premium Outlets will include Direct Current (DC) chargers with outputs ranging from 280 kW to 1 MW, making it the first publicly accessible 1 MW charger in the region.
The charging infrastructure will be developed via a strategic partnership with Yinson Greentech’s chargEV and DC Handal as service providers.
It will be able to accommodate a diverse range of vehicles, ensuring compatibility with future advancements in EV technology, and helping the transition to a fully electric future.
These plans also include the electrification of the Johor Premium Outlets fleet of shuttle buses. An EV bus hub will be established to connect Johor Premium Outlets directly with Johor Bahru checkpoints and other key public transport hubs, making sustainable travel more convenient for both local and international visitors.
Additionally, there will be hourly and daily EV car rentals via a strategic partnership with GoCar and drivEV offering visitors greater freedom of travel and access to Johor Premium Outlets.
Pro-Net has announced that it has delivered 1,000 units of the Proton eMAS 7 to date. The electric vehicle was officially launched on 16 December 2024.
The subsidiary of Proton stated that the overwhelming response to the eMAS 7 is a testament to the trust Malaysians have placed in the national automaker’s vision for sustainable mobility.
“The success of the eMAS 7 is a reflection of our commitment to providing a compelling EV proposition that aligns with the needs of Malaysian consumers.
“Our goal is not just to sell cars but to foster a complete ecosystem that ensures a seamless and confident transition to electric mobility,” said Zhang Qiang, Chief Executive Officer of Pro-Net.
The company says survey results indicate that 58% of buyers recognize the eMAS 7 as a value-for-money proposition, while 51% appreciate its spaciousness and practicality.
Additionally, 38% were drawn to its advanced safety features, including Level 2 ADAS and semi-autonomous driving capabilities, and 39% cited the Live Integrated Charging Map as a key factor in their decision-making process.
According to Pro-Net, they have secured over 4,500 bookings for the EV. The company is confident of reaching 6,000 bookings soon, thanks in part to the extension of the Power Package that provides exclusive pricing to early adopters.
The company added that the eMAS 7 has captured 25% share of the local EV market. As a refresher, it has also emerged as the best-selling EV in Malaysia for January 2025.
BYD Malaysia has announced that it has managed to sell 800 units of the Denza D9 within just one week of its launch.
The D9 was launched on our shores on February 20 at a price of RM259,000 for the Advanced FWD variant and RM309,000 for the Premium AWD variant.
It comes with a warranty of up to eight years or 160,000 km for the battery (with a State of Health over 70%), as well as a warranty of up to eight years or 150,000 km for the drive motor and its controller. A vehicle warranty of up to six years or 150,000 km is also included.
The Advanced FWD variant is powered by a single electric motor positioned at the front axle, generating 308 hp and 360 Nm, enabling it to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 9.5 seconds.
The Premium AWD variant, which features two electric motors, boasts a higher output of 369 hp and 470 Nm, reducing the 0-100 km/h acceleration time to just 6.9 seconds.
Both variants utilise a 103 kWh Blade LFP battery, offering a WLTP range of up to 600 km for the Advanced FWD and 580 km for the Premium AWD.
Honda Malaysia said it aims to sell 83,000 vehicles in 2025 and capture a market share of 10.6%.
According to the company, this year’s target, which surpasses last year’s sales of 81,600 units by 1,400 units, is driven by the launch of three new models, including the Civic facelift in January.
Honda Malaysia stated that with continued strong demand for its existing lineup, it is confident of maintaining its leading position in the non-national passenger vehicle segment for the 12th consecutive year.
The company is confident that internal combustion engine and e:HEV technologies will stay relevant in the market, benefitting from infrastructure readiness, consumer preferences and technological advancements.
Last year, e:HEV models received significant feedback from the market, accounting for nearly 30% of total hybrid vehicle sales in Malaysia.
In line with its business direction for 2025, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Honda Malaysia Hironobu Yoshimura said that the company will launch its first battery electric vehicle (BEV), the e:N1.
“This model exemplifies Honda’s advanced BEV features, while also introducing the company’s initial EV technology to the Malaysian market,” he said.
He added that the launch of the e:N1 will pave the way for Honda Malaysia’s three-year plan to introduce three new BEV models to the Malaysian market by 2027.
In addition to enhancing its product offerings, Honda Malaysia indicated that it will improve its sales and after-sales services. The company currently operates 104 distribution centres nationwide.
Sime Motors has launched EV Next, the first used EV dealership in Malaysia, offering a wide selection of used EVs with attractive trade-in values.
“We are proud to introduce the first used EV dealership in Malaysia, designed to cater to diverse lifestyles. Our unwavering commitment to driving progress toward a greener future ensures we deliver the best products and solutions to our customers across the region,” said Andrew Basham, Managing Director of Sime Motors.
The EV Next portfolio offers a wide selection of EV brands including BYD, BMW, MINI, Hyundai, Jaguar, Porsche and Volvo.
As a one-stop centre, EV Next also offers comprehensive aftersales service and maintenance, complemented by Drivecare, an independent aftersales network under Sime Motors.
Customers interested in trading in their vehicles or purchasing a pre-owned EV can visit the EV Next showrooms in Glenmarie, Chan Sow Lin, and TREC.
According to Sime Motors, the EV Next network will expand nationwide, with new locations set to open in Penang, Tebrau, and Johor Bahru.
Jeffrey Gan, Managing Director of Southeast Asia, Sime Motors, shared, “Backed by our extensive expertise in the automotive industry, EV Next is a one stop centre for all used EVs from vehicle retail to trade-ins and aftersales support.
Last week, Jaecoo Malaysia launched the J7 PHEV at a very enticing price of RM158,800, which is more than RM10,000 lower than the estimated price announced in October last year.
At first glance, the J7 PHEV appears to be a spitting image of the ICE-powered J7, but both models are rather distinctive, not only when it comes to powertrain but also in the aspects of exterior and interior design.
Powertrain
J7 PHEV
J7
As its name suggests, the J7 PHEV comes with a plug-in hybrid powertrain rather than an internal combustion engine like the J7. The powertrain, dubbed as the Super Hybrid System, combines a 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder Deep Miller-cycle engine producing 141 hp and 215 Nm of torque, with an electric motor that generates 204 PS and 310 Nm of torque.
The combination results in a total system output of 347 PS and 525 Nm, which is transmitted to the front wheels via a single-speed Dedicated Hybrid Transmission or DHT.
Exterior
From the outside, the J7 PHEV can be distinguished by several features. This includes the wheels, as the J7 PHEV is fitted with aerodynamic 19-inch rims wrapped in Kumho tyres.
Additionally, the newly launched SUV can also be identified by its more aerodynamic mirror design (with silver trim), a Range Rover-esque rear bumper with zero visible exhaust tips, a ‘PHEV’ badge on the tailgate, and a charging port located on the right side.
Interior
Get inside and the first thing you will notice is that the J7 PHEV’s centre console is visibly tidier than that of the J7. This is because the conventional gear lever found in the latter has been removed and replaced with a column shifter.
The wireless charging tray remains, but the drive mode selector is now gone while the cup holders are now positioned horizontally to make room for a row of buttons for the hybrid system. Additionally, the J7 PHEV showcases a simpler door card design compared its non-hybrid sibling.
Features
The infotainment system in both the J7 PHEV and J7 is one and the same, comprising a 10.25-inch digital instrument panel, a 14.8-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a head-up display, and a Sony audio system with eight speakers.
Boot Space
Despite being equipped with a battery located beneath the boot floor, the J7 PHEV offers greater boot space compared to the J7, measuring 500 litres. However, the kicker is it does not come with a spare tyre – buyers get a tyre repair kit instead.
Jaecoo says the tonneau cover on the J7 PHEV can be used as a projector screen, which can be directly powered by the vehicle through the Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) function.
Pricing
As aforementioned, the J7 PHEV is priced at RM158,800. The J7, on the other hand, is available at RM138,800 for the 2WD variant and RM148,800 for the AWD variant.
The J7 PHEV comes with a seven-year engine warranty or up to 150,000 km, and an eight-year warranty or up to 160,000 km for the battery, power motor, and power motor control unit. The eight-year warranty offers a one-to-one replacement if the State of Health (SOH) of the battery falls below 70% within the warranty period.
The Jaecoo J7 PHEV has officially been launched in the Malaysian market, approximately four months after it was first previewed.
This SUV is priced at RM158,800 and is locally assembled at the Chery Malaysia production facility in Shah Alam, where the J7 is also produced.
As its name suggests, the J7 PHEV is essentially the plug-in hybrid version of the J7. It is powered by a 1.5-litre TGDI engine that produces 143 PS and 215 Nm of torque, complemented by an electric motor generating 204 PS and 310 Nm, giving it a total systemoutput of 347 PS and 525 Nm.
Power is transmitted to the wheels via a one-speed Dedicated Hybrid Transmission (DHT), enabling it to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 8.5 seconds.
Another key component of the hybrid system is the 18.3 kWh Blade LFP battery, which offers an electric driving range of 106 km.
The BYD-sourced battery supports 6.6 kW AC charging, allowing it to charge from 30% to 80% in three hours, as well as 40 kW DC charging, which requires only 20 minutes for the same charge.
Alternatively, owners can use a standard three-pin 230 V residential socket, which takes approximately 8.5 hours for a full charge.
Jaecoo claims that the combination gives the J7 PHEV an overall range of up to 1,300 km (NEDC), with a fuel consumption rate as low as 4.77 litres per 100 km.
The performance of this powertrain in real-world driving conditions has already been proven. In January, five units of the J7 PHEV managed to cover a distance of 1,200 km (WLTP) on a long-distance trip from Singapore to Hatyai, Thailand, via Malaysia, using just one tank of fuel and a charge.
In terms of appearance, there is not much difference between the J7 and the J7 PHEV. However, the latter can still be distinguished by its blue ‘7’ logo, the ‘PHEV’ badge, aerodynamic 19-inch rims, and the battery charging port located on the right side.
The J7 PHEV is currently available in three colours, namely Khaki White, Carbon
Crystal Black and Moonlight Silver. Khaki White will be a limited to 100 units, after which Jarcoo will subsequently introduce an olive grey option.
Inside, you will find a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, a 14.8-inch infotainment screen with support for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as dual-zone climate control.
It is interesting to note that compared to its non-hybrid sibling, the J7 PHEV boasts a larger boot capacity of 500 litres, which can expand to 1,265 litres when the rear seats are fully folded down.
Safety features include automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, driver monitoring system, emergency lane-keeping assistance, intelligent high beam assist, lane departure warning, rear cross-traffic alert, and traffic jam assist.
The J7 PHEV comes with a seven-year/150,000 km vehicle warranty and an eight-year/160,000 km warranty on its battery, power motor and power motor controller unit.
The eight-year warranty provides a 1 to 1 exchange when the state of health (SOH) of the battery falls below 70% during the warranty tenure.
Jaecoo also announced a special early bird package which qualifies all existing J7 PHEV bookings and bookings placed up to 2nd March 2025 for a 10-year/1,000,000 km warranty mileage extended engine and high voltage battery warranty.
This is good news for fans of V8 and V12 engines from AMG. During its annual results conference recently, Mercedes-Benz announced that it would continue to offer these engines.
For the V12 engine, the German manufacturer plans to keep producing it for the long term, although only for specific markets.
This is not really surprising, as currently, only one Mercedes model utilises the 12-cylinder mill, namely the Maybach S680. With a displacement of 6.0-litres and a pair turbochargers, the engine generates 612 PS and 900 Nm of torque.
Among the trio of German luxury brands, Mercedes will be the last to retain a 12-cylinder engine in its lineup. The last time BMW had a V12 model was in 2022 with the M760i, while Audi exited the segment in 2017 with the W12-powered A8.
Furthermore, Mercedes stated that it is developing a “next-generation, high-tech electrified V8” for models built on the AMG.EA platform. The engine is being developed to comply with stricter Euro 7 emission standards.
It is uncertain whether the next-generation C63 will adopt the new engine, but looking at the lacklustre response to the current four-cylinder hybrid model, it doesn’t seem like such a bad idea.
The automaker made no mention of the inline-six engine used by the S580e and CLS53, hence it’s safe to assume that it will soldier on.
When it comes to four-cylinder engines though, Mercedes said will debut a 1.5-litre 48-volt hybrid engine paired with an eight-speed DCT transmission in the new CLA next month.
Perodua is currently preparing to launch its first electric vehicle (EV) in December this year.
This was confirmed by Sime Darby Group Chief Executive Officer, Datuk Jeffri Salim Davidson, as reported by the New Straits Times. According to him, the company will begin testing the EV in June.
He further added that the yet-to-be-named model received positive feedback when showcased at the Kuala Lumpur International Motor Show (KLIMS) 2024 in December last year.
“The EV space is where we see strong potential. The demand is growing, and we are positioning ourselves accordingly,” said Jeffri.
As previously reported, Perodua’s EV will feature a single front-wheel-drive electric motor with a power output of 68 PS and 220 Nm of torque, and a range of up to 450 km on a full charge.
Specifications regarding the battery are still unknown. However, Perodua President and Chief Executive Officer Datuk Seri Zainal Abidin Ahmad previously mentioned that it would be offered on a leasing basis to buyers.
He explained that this approach allows Perodua to sell the EV at a price of around RM80,000.
Proton recently presented a Proton S70 as the grand prize to Miss Asia (Southeast Asia) 2024 winner Janice Chian Yan Tong, during a ceremony held at the Proton Centre of Excellence (COE) headquarters.
The 24-year-old, originally from Ipoh, was crowned the prestigious title over 16 other finalists.
“Proton is proud to present the winner of Miss Asia (Southeast Asia) 2024 with a unit of the Proton S70 as the grand prize and as a reward for her victory. This prestigious pageant embodies excellence, ambition, and confidence, which are values that align perfectly with our own corporate values,” stated Roslan Abdullah, Deputy Chief Executive Officer of Proton.
After experiencing her new car for the first time, Janice expressed her admiration for the handling, smart features, and sleek design of the sedan.
“The Proton S70 delivers everything I could possibly want, impressive power, sophisticated style, safety, and modern technology. It is a car that truly stands out in its class,” Janice shared.
Launched in November 2023, the S70 is powered by a 1.5-litre turbo three-cylinder engine that produces 150 PS and 226 Nm of torque. Power is transmitted to the front wheels via a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT).
The selling prices start from RM73,800 for the Executive model, RM79,800 for the Premium, RM89,800 for the Flagship, and RM94,800 for the Flagship X.
This year is a special one for Valentino Rossi as on February 16, the MotoGP legend, who is currently a works driver for BMW M, celebrated his 46th birthday.
The number 46 is a big deal for the nine-time world champion. So to mark the occasion, BMW introduced the exclusive M4 CS Edition VR46, designed by The Doctor himself. It is available in two versions, Sport and Style, with each version limited to only 46 units.
What sets the M4 CS Edition VR46 apart from the standard version? First and foremost, it features BMW Individual paint inspired by Rossi’s preferred tones and expressive visual style.
The Sport version comes in Marina Bay Blue metallic with a large ’46’ in Tanzanite Blue metallic, while the Style differs slightly, with a body in Frozen Tanzanite Blue metallic and the ’46’ in Frozen Marina Bay Blue.
Of course, Rossi is not Rossi without his signature bright yellow hue. On this car, the colour can be found on the grille outline, one of the V spokes in the forged M light-alloy wheels, the brake calipers, and over the door frames of the “Sport” variant. The carbon fibre roof is adorned with the VR46 logo and Rossi’s signature, also in the same yellow.
The use of yellow doesn’t stop there. The interior, predominantly Night Blue, is highlighted with Sao Paulo Yellow trim on the M Carbon bucket seats. The steering wheel is wrapped in Alcantara with, you guessed it, yellow stitching and a yellow centre marker.
Finally, each M4 CS Edition VR46 comes with a production serial badge on the carbon-fibre centre console.
There are no mechanical upgrades, as the M4 CS is already speedy enough. Under the bonnet is a 3.0-litre twin-turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine tuned to produce a healthy 550 PS and 650 Nm.
With an eight-speed Steptronic transmission driving all four wheels via the M xDrive all-wheel drive system, the M4 CS can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.4 seconds and reach a top speed of 302 km/h with the standard M Driver’s Package.
Prices have not been disclosed, but whatever the cost, it promises to be well worth it. This is because all 92 individuals who are lucky enough to be able to purchase one will be invited to take part a very special two-day experience in Italy.
On the first day, customers will enjoy a BBQ with Rossi at the VR46 Motor Ranch in Tavullia, while on the second day, they will be taken to the Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli for the BMW M Driving Experience, where they can drive the latest BMW M models.
Legenda Beringin Holding and Chery Corporate Malaysia recently signed an agreement and marked the symbolic groundbreaking for the Chery Smart Auto Industrial Park located at the Beringin High-Tech Auto Valley (Beringin HTA Valley).
According to Chery Malaysia, the Chery Smart Auto Industrial Park anchors the first phase development of the 800-acre Beringin HTA Valley ecosystem.
Spanning 200 acres, the development of Chery Smart Auto Industrial Park aligns with the Beringin HTA Valley’s phased vision of building integrated township that can attract talent, investment, and innovation, bringing world class automotive manufacturing and cutting-edge technologies to Hulu Selangor.
The facility will also help strengthen Malaysia’s position as a key player in the regional automotive industry.
Targeted for completion in 2026, the Chery Smart Auto Industrial Park is projected to have an initial production capacity of 100,000 vehicles per annum, scalable to 300,000 vehicles per annum. It will be developed at an investment and contribution of RM2.2 billion over a period of 5-years.
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The remaining land area will be allocated for other developments that supports the vision of building a leading hub for automotive innovation, supply chain, vocational training, and technological advancement in the region.
“Chery is proud to be an integral part of this visionary development, where we will establish state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities, integrate cutting-edge smart technologies, and produce an extensive range of vehicles—from internal combustion engine (ICE) models to the latest in plug-in hybrid (PHEV), battery electric (BEV), and energy-efficient vehicle (EEV) technologies.
“We are confident that once completed it will create high-value job opportunities, house a cutting-edge R&D centre, expand vehicle exports to neighbouring countries, strengthen Selangor’s role through a robust supply chain, and solidify Malaysia’s position as a leading automotive hub in ASEAN,” said Chery International President Zhang Guibing.
Sime Darby Auto ConneXion-Ford (Auto ConneXion) recently held an off-road event called Ford Raptor Rev at Bay 13, Sepang Circuit.
This action-packed event, which took place on February 22 and 23, was designed to give Ford Ranger Raptor owners and off-road enthusiasts an unforgettable experience.
According to Auto ConneXion, the event saw strong participation with 80 Ranger Raptor owners attending. Members of the public also came in droves to witness the capabilities of the Raptor firsthand.
Among the activities specifically organised for the Ranger Raptor owners who registered to take part in this exclusive event were workshop and training sessions covering off-roading jumping and drifting, 4×4 obstacle trails and Baja lap training.
A Ford expert, Chris Dean, was flown in from Australia for the event and conducted in-depth training on decoding the Ranger Raptor’s FOX suspension system.
Meanwhile, the members of the public, who enjoyed complimentary access to the event, also had the opportunity to take part in various activities, such as hot laps with professional drivers, Ranger Raptor test drives, and much more.
Additionally, attendees were also able to catch four popular personalities—actor and motor enthusiast Ezzrin Loy, footballer and 4×4 enthusiast Intan Serah, ex-national bowler Syaidatul Afifah and professional drifter Hee Wei Seng—participating in a hot lap with their lucky fans in a Ranger Raptor
Also present was renowned tyre brand BFGoodrich, the main partner of the Raptor Rev event. In addition to providing technical support and hosting informative workshops, the brand also showcased its newly launched KO3 off-road tyres.
“We are proud to have brought together the Ranger Raptor community for this unique off-road experience. The Raptor Rev is a celebration of what makes the Ranger Raptor extraordinary.
“It is a great platform for owners and enthusiasts alike to witness the Raptor’s extraordinary capabilities in a thrilling, hands-on environment while fostering a strong sense of community amongst off-road enthusiasts,” said Turse Zuhair, Managing Director of Auto ConneXion.
It’s no secret that Jaecoo Malaysia is set to expand its model lineup with the introduction of another SUV, the J7 PHEV.
The upcoming model was unveiled to the media last October and is scheduled for launch on February 28, with an estimated price of around RM170,000.
Although the J7 PHEV has not yet been officially launched, we were fortunate enough to be able to take it for a rather long distance drive last January.
To be exact, yours truly and a few other media representatives actually embarked on a journey from Singapore, through Malaysia to Hatyai, Thailand with just one tank of fuel and a single charge.
The trip aimed to demonstrate the real-world capabilities of Jaecoo’s Super Hybrid System in terms of fuel efficiency.
In other words, it was to discover just how far the J7 PHEV could travel without needing to refuel or recharge the battery.
So, what exactly is the Super Hybrid System? For the J7 PHEV, it comprises a 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine paired with a Dedicated Hybrid Transmission (DHT) and an 18.3 kWh battery.
Altogether, the powertrain produces a total system output of 347 hp and 525 Nm of torque, enabling the J7 PHEV to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 8.5 seconds.
But as you may already know, speed is not the primary focus of this SUV. Its true strength lies in its fuel efficiency, with Jaecoo claiming it can achieve readings as low as 5.99 litres per 100 km.
With a 60-litre tank and a zero-emission driving range of 106 km courtesy of the battery, Jaecoo claims that the J7 PHEV can cover an impressive distance of 1,300 km on a single tank.
On paper, those figures are indeed impressive, but can the SUV prove its mettle in the real world?
I personally believe that the J7 PHEV is capable of covering the claimed distance, at least in theory. But as you may already know, fuel consumption and range depend on various factors, such as driving style, traffic conditions, weather, load, and more.
The three-day trip was undertaken with careful consideration, meaning that the car was driven within the national speed limit for most of the journey. I also made a conscious effort to avoid aggressive acceleration to maintain optimal fuel consumption.
Additionally, to maximise distance, I made use of the regenerative braking system at varying levels of braking force according to the driving conditions.
For instance, when cruising on flat roads, the braking force was set to a low level to allow the vehicle to coast for longer. In hilly areas, however, I increased the braking force to allow the battery to charge more rapidly.
Upon reaching our final destination in Hatyai, the trip computer showed a distance of 1,051 km, with 269 km of fuel range and 21 km of battery range remaining.
When these three figures are combined, the J7 PHEV theoretically could cover up to 1,341 km without needing to refuel or recharge through a cable.
While achieving this figure may be challenging under more realistic driving conditions, if an owner could record a distance of around 1,100 to 1,200 km, I believe that would still be incredibly worthwhile.
Just think about it – how many other SUVs in the same price range can boast such fuel savings? Furthermore, with the anticipated restructuring of the RON95 petrol subsidy set to roll out this year, the J7 PHEV emerges as a very wise choice for buyers in this segment.
Great Wall Motor (GWM) Malaysia has announced the winners of the ‘GWM HAVAL H6 HEV Fuel Efficiency Challenge: Drive Further, Win Bigger’ campaign, which took place from 20 January to 9 February 2025.
In the campaign, participants pushed the limits of their own vehicles to achieve top mileage by driving on one full tank.
The champion of the challenge, Koh Hui Min from Kelantan covered an impressive 1,204 km, thereby highlighting the Haval H6 HEV’s exceptional fuel efficiency over long distances.
Here are the top six winners with their recorded distances:
Koh Hui Min (1,204 km)
Lee Keat Teng (1,127 km)
Hasif Radzi (1,120 km)
Teh Harn Jian (1,102 km)
Tan Cheng Yang (1,101 km)
Mohd Syarizal bin Mohd Noor (1,077 km)
“These remarkable achievements have proven this hybrid-powered SUV’s capacity to achieve better fuel economy without compromising on vehicle performance,” said Cui Anqi, Managing Director of GWM Malaysia.
Launched in October last year, the Haval H6 HEV features a combination of a 1.5-litre, four-cylinder turbo engine and an electric motor, producing a total power output of 243 PS and 530 Nm. Power is transmitted to the wheels via a Dedicated Hybrid Transmission (DHT) with two-speed ratios.
GWM says the Haval H6 HEV has a claimed fuel consumption rating of 5.8 litres/100 km, meaning it can travel more than 1,000 km on one full tank.
The second round of this challenge is currently underway from February 17 to March 9, 2025. The top six winners will have the opportunity to win petrol cards worth RM1 for every kilometre successfully completed.
At the launch of the Denza D9 in Kuala Lumpur, the automaker caught some of us (including yours truly) off guard when it used the Z9 GT to bring BYD’s Asia-Pacific Auto Sales Division General Manager Liu Xueliang onto the stage.
But the excitement didn’t stop there. The car demonstrated one of its standout features by executing a tank turn, which is essentially a 360-degree turn in the same spot. Picture a drift car performing a donut, albeit at a much slower speed and sans the billowing smoke.
Could this brief demonstration be an indication that the Z9 GT will soon enter the Malaysian market?
When questioned about this, BYD Malaysia’s Managing Director, Eagle Zhao, stated, “Soon, we will introduce more models in Malaysia, including the Z9 GT.”
The statement clearly illustrates Denza’s serious intentions regarding its presence in Malaysia. This is because unlike the D9, the Z9 GT currently lacks a right-hand drive (RHD) version.
By effectively saying that the model will be introduced here, Denza is indirectly signalling its readiness to invest significantly in entering RHD markets like Malaysia.
However, the question remains: can the Z9 GT entice Malaysian buyers, especially with the fierce competition from other, more established brands?
While it’s still too early to predict how the Z9 GT will do in our market, my first encounter with said car during a visit to Shenzhen, China, late last year showed that it has what it takes to shake things up the premium segment.
There was a test drive session but it was conducted in a rather small area with limited time. That said, I can conclude that the Z9 GT is indeed an exhilarating piece of machinery, not just in terms of performance but also on the design and feature fronts.
As you can see, the Z9 GT is a five-door wagon/shooting brake with a side profile that looks like it was cast in the same mould as the Porsche Panamera Sport Turismo.
Although its overall design may not match the German car’s grandeur, for those seeking a stylish shooting brake without breaking the bank, the Z9 GT seems like a fine candidate.
True to expectations, the car’s interior luxuriates in opulence and high-tech amenities that are sure to entice premium segment buyers.
It is important to note that the model is not solely developed for the Chinese market; it is also slated for European markets, where it will compete with legacy manufacturers like BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and Audi. So, the more kit, the better.
Notable features include Nappa leather upholstery, a panoramic glass roof, ambient lighting, two small fridges (one beneath the front armrest and another hidden between the rear seatbacks), and automatic doors that open and close by a mere press of a button—much like the i7.
The infotainment system is quite impressive as well. In addition to the digital instrument panel for the driver and a generously sized central touchscreen, the car also includes a display for the front passenger.
On top of these, it also comes equipped with a Devialet audio system (a French audio technology company) comprising a whopping 26 speakers and two wireless chargers on the centre console.
What about practicality, you ask? Golfers will surely appreciate the Z9 GT, as its boot space is ample enough to accommodate two golf bags when the rear seats are folded. Loading items into the boot is also made easy, thanks to the hatch that provides a wide opening.
Back to the aforementioned test drive, the media units provided were the PHEV variants featuring a 2.0-litre turbo four-cylinder petrol engine acting as a generator for three electric motors—one at the front axle, and two at the rear.
The combination yields a healthy total output of 870 PS, allowing it to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in a scant 3.6 seconds.
Also integral to this fifth-generation DM hybrid system is a 38.5 kWh LFP Blade battery, providing a pure electric driving range of 201 km (CLTC cycle) and a combined range of 1,100 km.
Needless to say, the Z9 GT moves like a rocket on wheels in a straight line but when facing tight turns, it does not exhibit the agility one might expect, despite equipped with rear-wheel steering and an air suspension system.
The primary factors contributing to this shortcoming are the size and weight of the Z9 GT. Measuring 5,180 mm in length, 1,990 mm in width, and with a wheelbase of 3,125 mm, this car is undeniably large. Weighing in at 2.9 tonnes, it comes as no surprise that it also struggled with the slalom test.
However, to be fair, the makeshift course was rather small for a powerhouse like the Z9 GT. Perhaps more comprehensive tests on highways or larger circuits like Sepang would do better justice to the car’s true capabilities.
For your information, in addition to the PHEV version, the Z9 GT is also available as an EV featuring three electric motors and a 100 kWh battery. This version boasts a total output of 963 PS, is capable of sprinting from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.4 seconds and achieving a range of 630 km on a full charge.
Which version will be imported to Malaysia remains unclear but one thing for sure, the imminent arrival of the Z9 GT poses a challenge to other luxury brands.
Bosch Mobility Aftermarket (MA) today showcased its latest innovations and a range of new products, designed to deliver optimum vehicle performance, safety and efficiency.
“We are thrilled to unveil these cutting-edge products to our valued stakeholders, and to empower them further by providing only the best from a brand trusted well over 100 years with industry-leading quality and expertise,” said Dillion Goh Kian Chiang, Country Business Director of Bosch Mobility Aftermarket Malaysia.
The eight new products introduced are as follows:
ClearAdvantage TL Wiper
Engineered for greater durability and improved adaptability for new Japanese-made vehicles.
Quiet wiping action in all-weather conditions.
EFB Battery (M42R)
Optimised for Stop-Start vehicles and tested up to 36,000 start-stop cycles.
Powerful 400 Cold Cranking Amps (CCA) and 40 Amp Hours (Ah) for longer service life.
C70B Battery Charger
Efficient charging with built-in support mode for enhanced operation.
Smart charging featuring available memory settings.
IP65 waterproof durability certified and intuitive one-button automated charging.
EVO Spark Plug
Longer service life with use of iridium pin and platinum plates for longer service life and optimal performance.
Mechanical and electrical robust construction for better durability and dielectric strength.
Improved insulation design and nickel coating for enhanced corrosion protection.
Engine Oil
Engineered to deliver High-performance lubrication for optimal engine efficiency in all conditions.
Optimises efficiency for better fuel savings and reduced consumption.
Protects the exhaust system, reduces emissions, and maintains stable lubrication.
Ceramic Brake Pad
High strength back plate material to reduce pad flex and engineered for Malaysian-made vehicles.
Noise suppressing shim design for improved refinement.
Vehicle-matched friction formulation for reliable braking in all conditions.
Compound Brake Disc
Reduces vehicle weight and unsprung masses improve driving comfort and road handling.
Enhanced thermal capacity and heat conductivity enables quicker cooling.
Fulfillment of ECER 90 requirements and beyond and developed for Continental vehicles.
NV6 Brake Fluid
Compatible for DOT3, DOT4, DOT5.1 and Class6 with anti-corrosion properties.
Extended service life and meets OE standards.
Developed for Continental vehicles and adapted for Japanese vehicles for improved braking performance.
“With our renewed direction known as Driver’s Choice: Ask For Bosch, our innovative approach reflects our commitment to providing our customers with the highest quality components and the latest technological advancements,” Dillion added.
National automaker Proton in a statement said that its X-Series SUV lineup remains resilient in the market despite facing stiff competition from other brands vying for the same customer base.
X50
According to the automaker, the X50 has emerged as its best-selling SUV, with total sales of 23,647 units last year. The 2024 version, launched on 4 June, received an overwhelming response with a total of 8,000 bookings in the first month. A total of 13,780 units of the 2024 X50 were sold last year, accounting for 58.3% of the model’s total sales.
Meanwhile, the X50 Sport Edition (SE) received 941 orders, with 299 units registered in less than a month after its debut.
A recent survey of over 1,300 customers revealed that X50 owners were drawn to the vehicle primarily due to its combination of features, engine performance and spacious cabin.
X70
Proton’s first SUV, the X70, recorded sales of 5,628 units for the 2025 version. This makes up 62.6% of the total 8,992 units sold in 2024.
From the same recent survey, key reasons for purchase included fuel efficiency, features and engine performance.
Launched in August last year, the 2025 X70 is a comprehensive update to its predecessor, featuring revised exterior styling, new interior equipment and upgraded ADAS level 2 safety technology.
X90
The X90, Proton’s entrant in the D-segment SUV space, ended 2024 with 3,553 units delivered, maintaining its position as a market leader since its launch two years ago.
Proton reported that buyers were drawn to the X90’s driving performance, storage capacity and value for money. About 30% of buyers preferred the car for its strong driving performance, while 27% liked it because of its large storage compartments, good value for money and number of features compared to competitors.
The automaker added that X90 owners have families with children with a similar buying profile as X50.
“Thanks to our intelligent models, we have managed to raise the overall level of sophistication in cars offered to Malaysian buyers and while the strong market response to our current model lineup is testament to the trust and loyalty we have earned from our customers. Looking ahead, we remain dedicated to delivering vehicles that offer outstanding performance, features, and value,” said Roslan Abdullah, Chief Executive Officer of Proton Edar.
After being showcased in Malaysia for the first time last week, the premium electric MPV from BYD’s sub-brand Denza, the D9, has been officially launched.
With this launch, Denza also announced the selling prices of the D9, starting at RM259,000 for the Advanced FWD variant and RM309,000 for the Premium AWD variant.
The vehicle comes with a warranty of up to eight years or 160,000 km for the battery (with a state of health exceeding 70%) and a warranty of up to eight years or 150,000 km for the drive motor and motor controller.
Additionally, Denza offers a vehicle warranty of up to six years or 150,000 km.
As reported previously, the D9 features a seven-seat configuration. It measures 5,250 mm in length, 1,960 mm in width, and 1,920 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 3,110 mm.
The Advanced FWD variant is powered by a single electric motor on the front axle, generating 308 hp and 360 Nm of torque, allowing it to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 9.5 seconds.
In contrast, the Premium AWD variant is equipped with two electric motors, delivering 369 hp and 470 Nm of torque, which reduces the acceleration time from 0 to 100 km/h to just 6.9 seconds.
Both variants are fitted with the same 103 kWh Blade LFP battery. However, the driving range (NEDC cycle) differs between the two variants, with the Advanced FWD achieving 600 km and the Premium AWD offering 580 km.
The battery supports DC fast charging of up to 166 kW, which can restore battery energy from 30% to 80% in just 30 minutes. Charging for 10 minutes will provide a range of 150 km.
Additionally, it is equipped with 11 kW AC charging.
A big plus in the interior is the captain’s seats in the second row. These seats feature 10-way electric adjustments, memory functions, and massage capabilities, all of which can be accessed and controlled via a small digital screen on the armrest.
The infotainment system includes a 10.25-inch digital instrument panel, a 15.6-inch touchscreen, a Dynaudio system with 14 speakers, and three 50W wireless chargers. Overall, this MPV offers six USB charging ports.
Moreover, features such as leather upholstery (Nappa for the Premium AWD), a panoramic glass roof, and a 7.5-litre refrigerator with heating functionality are also included.
In addition to the more luxurious leather upholstery, the Premium AWD variant comes with suede headliner, auto-dimming mirrors, a digital rearview mirror, and a 12-inch head-up display.
Another advantage of the range-topping variant is the inclusion of the intelligent Disus-C noise reduction system.
For safety, the D9 is equipped with six airbags and an advanced driver assistance system (ADAS) featuring functionalities such as Adaptive Cruise Control, Automatic Emergency Braking, Front Cross Traffic Alert, Lane Keeping Assist, Lane Departure Warning, and more.
Take note that Forward Traffic Crossing Alert (FCTA) and Forward Traffic Crossing Braking (FCTB) are only included in the Premium AWD variant.
Continental Tyre Malaysia has stated that all of their tyres are suitable for electric vehicles, ensuring safety, comfort, and efficiency
Leveraging German technology and strong R&D, Continental addresses EV-specific requirements such as higher load capacity, low noise levels, and smooth performance.
Globally, the 10 highest-volume manufacturers of fully EVs, including BMW, BYD, Kia, Mercedes-Benz, Renault, Smart, and Volvo, rely on Continental tyres for their original equipment (OE).
Drawing on its extensive experience, Continental ensures that all its tyres across various segments are specifically designed to be fully compatible with EVs and tailored to meet their unique performance requirements.
Among the Continental tyres available in the market are:
The SportContact SC7 delivers exceptional driving confidence and performance
The MaxContact MC7 emphasises precise control and handling
The UltraContact UC7 is for those seeking both comfort and outstanding wet braking
The ComfortContact CC7 stands out for its superior comfort and quiet ride
The EcoContact EC6/EC6 Q are designed to maximise energy efficiency, extending the driving range on a single charge
To ensure a tyre is suitable for an electric vehicle, consumers should look for features such as load and speed indexes of the tyre to handle the increased vehicle weight, traction and grip, and designs that maximise energy efficiency.
In addition to compatibility, Continental offers noise breaker technology that allows for quieter tyres.
“Our tyres are designed not only to enhance performance but also to meet the unique requirements of alternative drive systems. Our product lineup caters to a variety of vehicles, including fuel-powered, hybrid, and fully electric, and incorporates advanced technologies tailored to the specific demands of the Malaysian market,” said Andrea Somorova, Managing Director of Continental Tyre Malaysia.
Malaysia’s Leading Automotive News | ENGEAR ENGLISH
