All posts by Hanif Su'ib

Someone who loves driving manual cars but prefers riding an automatic scooter. Maybe it's an age thing.
NEWS

HLYM celebrates 6th million motorcycle production milestone, launches Space Y museum

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Hong Leong Yamaha Motor (HLYM) celebrated the remarkable achievement of producing its 6 millionth motorcycle at its Sungai Buloh factory.

The milestone model is a Yamaha Y16ZR, unveiled during a ceremony attended by Dato’ Prof. Dr. Jim Khor, Managing Director of Hong Leong Industries Bhd; Katsuaki Watanabe, Chairman, Director, and President of Yamaha Motor Japan; Datuk Kwek Leng San, President and CEO of Hong Leong Manufacturing Group; and Datuk Wee Hong, Chairman of the Malaysian Motorcycle and Scooter Dealers Association.

According to Dato’ Jim Khor, “Previously, the production figure of 5 million was a proud achievement reached over a span of 46 months. Today, we celebrate the achievement of 6 million motorcycles produced in just 37 months, marking the fastest million-unit production in the history of the Malaysian motorcycle industry.”

In conjunction with this achievement, HLYM also officially opened Space Y, the first motorcycle museum in Malaysia, which has been recognized by the Malaysia Book of Records.

Located at the Yamaha Motor Lifestyle Station HQ, Space Y features a spacious 9,000 square feet area that showcases engaging exhibits, including historical and racing sections, an innovation tunnel, interactive art spaces, a theater, and an exclusive Space Y merchandise store.

The museum is open daily except on Sundays from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and visitors can enjoy free admission until December 31, 2024. Starting January 2025, an entrance fee of RM5 for adults and RM3 for children will be implemented.

 

HLYM Space Y

EV, NEWS

Mazda confirms Iconic SP for production, comes with rotary engine?

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After a year of speculation, Mazda has officially announced plans to turn its Iconic SP concept model into a real production vehicle.

According to Masashi Nakayama, head of Mazda’s design unit, “This concept is not just an empty show car; it has been designed with a genuine intention to transform it into a production model soon.”

Previously, there were hints that Mazda was looking to realize this project.

The first indication came during the Japan Mobility Show 2023, where Mazda President and CEO Masahiro Moro described the Iconic SP as a landmark of the brand’s “commitment to the future.”

Months later, reports emerged that Mazda had joined a coalition aimed at developing internal combustion engines designed to meet carbon neutrality targets, reaffirming the manufacturer’s commitment to maintaining its iconic rotary engines.

Intended as a successor to the RX-7 and RX-8 sports cars, the Mazda Iconic SP features a twin-rotor rotary engine combined with an electric power unit (EV), with a total output capable of reaching 365 hp.

Mazda claims that this range-extending rotary engine can utilize any carbon-neutral fuel, potentially reducing emissions by up to 90 percent.

Additionally, Mazda is currently testing technology that can capture CO2 from exhaust emissions, which may play a crucial role in the development of the brand’s future vehicles.

NEWS

Brabus Big Boy 1200, the ultimate luxury motorhome?

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Looking for a fully equipped and luxurious motorhome?

You might just need a Brabus Big Boy 1200, a tri-axle RV built in collaboration with STX Motorhomes.

Constructed on the Mercedes Actros chassis, this 12-meter-long, 2.5-meter-wide, and 4-meter-high RV boasts amenities such as a bedroom, living room, bathroom, and kitchen, all complete with large clean and wastewater tanks.

It is also equipped with a pair of 43-inch 4K TVs, a PS5 gaming console, and a premium audio system to accompany you on your travels.

Is that not enough space?

STX has also installed up to four electric-powered modules that can be extended for a more spacious and comfortable area to relax or work, complete with hydraulic jacks to ensure structural stability.

The sleeping accommodations include a king-size bed, two sofas, and an additional pull-down single bed located at the rear of the cockpit.

The kitchen is outfitted with various modern appliances, including a cooking stove, oven, freezer, coffee machine, and dishwasher.

Connectivity is not a major issue, as the Brabus Big Boy 1200 comes with a Starlink satellite dish and Wi-Fi router.

Additionally, Brabus has equipped the motorhome with up to eight solar panels, a battery pack, and a power generator to ensure an adequate supply for extended off-grid periods.

To power this tri-axle motorhome, the Brabus Big Boy 1200 is equipped with a 12.8-liter turbo diesel engine producing 523 hp and 2,600 Nm of torque, with a speed limit set at 90 km/h.

The price for one unit of the Brabus Big Boy 1200 starts at €1,260,504.20 (approximately RM6 million).

NEWS

Anthony Loke: All express buses prohibited from using phone charger sockets

The Land Public Transport Agency (APAD) has issued a temporary ban on the use of phone charger sockets in express buses following an electrocution incident that recently claimed the life of a teenage boy in Penang, according to a report by Kosmo.

Transport Minister Anthony Loke Siew Fook stated that the temporary ban on the use of phone charger sockets in express buses will remain in effect until a report from a special task force regarding the incident has been completed.

“Currently, all buses equipped with these sockets are prohibited from using them temporarily because we want to determine the actual cause of this incident first.

“After this special task force prepares the report, if there are any improvements that need to be made, the Ministry of Transport (MOT) is ready to cooperate with the Energy Commission (ST) to review the standard operating procedures (SOP) that need to be implemented before the use of these sockets in express buses is allowed,” he said during a session in the Dewan Rakyat today.

He was responding to a supplementary question from Mohd. Nazri Abu Hassan (PN-Merbok) regarding whether the MOT could instruct APAD to ensure that phone charging equipment installed in public transport is tested for safety levels before being approved for use.

Meanwhile, Anthony Loke assured passengers that they need not worry about the safety of using phone charger sockets on planes and trains.

According to him, the charger sockets on planes and trains adhere to standards that must be met by the manufacturers of these vehicles.

“There is no need to worry about using those sockets. For buses, there currently are no such standards.

“To date, during inspections by the Computerized Vehicle Inspection Centre (Puspakom) and others, sockets have not been included as part of the inspections. We will revisit the SOP together with the ST to ensure that the use of sockets in buses adheres to a standard,” he said.

Full news available at Kosmo!

NEWS

Toyota ‘unveils’ future sports car lineup in anime series GRIP

In addition to the Japanese animated series “Initial D” and “MF Ghost,” which feature characters driving Toyota-branded cars, there is also an anime series officially produced by the automaker itself.

The anime series “GRIP,” which can be watched legally on YouTube, is now in its second season and includes Easter eggs that will delight fans.

Shared on the Supra MKV forum, one such Easter egg appears on a chalkboard in a scene featuring a list of potential future GR sports cars, including the Supra Mk6, Celica Mk8, MR2 Mk4, GR86 Mk3, and GR GT3.

Notably, the GR Yaris and GR Corolla are completely absent from this list, along with the GR Starlet, which has been promoted as an affordable alternative to the GR Yaris hatchback model.

According to several previous reports, Toyota Gazoo Racing is set to revive several iconic names that are part of the brand’s motorsport history.

The Celica is expected to return as an all-wheel-drive coupe with a 2.0L turbo engine delivering 400 hp, while the MR2 is likely to make a comeback as a mid-engine sports car based on the FT-Se concept model.

In addition to the new generation GR86 and GR Supra, there is also the GR GT3/Lexus LFR, which may be powered by a V8 engine.

Toyota is also looking to develop another fast model, the GR Starlet, which will serve as a complement to the existing hot hatch lineup (GR Yaris, GR Corolla).

Unlike the two models equipped with GR-Four all-wheel-drive systems, the GR Starlet will utilize a three-cylinder inline engine producing around 150 hp and 220 Nm, driving only the front wheels.

NEWS

Touch ‘n Go launches e-Mas, cash rebates campaign for every RFID purchase

Touch ‘n Go (TnG) has launched two new campaigns aimed at enhancing the experience of Malaysians using digital wallets.

The e-Mas RFID campaign, which is valid from October 1, 2024, to January 31, 2025, offers TnG eWallet users the opportunity to receive e-Mas, a digital gold that will be credited directly to their accounts.

To qualify, users only need to purchase an RFID tag during the mentioned period, where 100 lucky winners will be selected each month to receive a cash rebate of e-Gold worth RM100.

Meanwhile, the RFID Cashback Rebate campaign offers a RM5 rebate for every purchase of an RFID tag at authorized installation or service centers nationwide, from November 1, 2024, to January 31, 2025.

This rebate will reduce the price of the RFID tag from RM35 to RM30 and is limited to the first 27,500 eligible customers who make payments using the TnG eWallet.

Through this latest campaign, TnG aims to encourage Malaysians to adopt a modern approach to diversifying their savings while integrating daily expenditure more seamlessly, and at the same time, enhancing the user experience through digital innovation.

EV, NEWS

MG Malaysia announces year-end promotion, up to 20 months of free installments

In conjunction with the celebration of MG’s 100th anniversary, SAIC Motor Malaysia has announced a year-end promotional campaign for the MG4 EV and MG ZS EV vehicle models.

This latest campaign offers up to 20 months of free installments worth RM26,000 for the MG ZS EV model.

Customers can also enjoy 12 months of free installments (valued at RM16,000) for the MG4 EV Lux model, or 8 months of free installments worth RM8,500 for the MG4 EV Standard model.

According to specifications, the MG ZS EV (priced at RM126,629) is a segment B electric SUV equipped with a single electric motor producing 176 PS and 280 Nm, offering a range of 320 km based on WLTP data.

Meanwhile, the standard version of the MG4 EV (priced at RM104,629) features a single rear-wheel drive electric motor with 170 PS and 250 Nm, providing a range of 350 km on a full charge.

The MG4 Lux variant (priced at RM129,620) comes with a more powerful electric motor, delivering 203 PS and 250 Nm, paired with a 64 kWh battery pack that offers a range of 435 km.

NEWS

Proton sales increase by 13.6 percent in October, Saga remains best-selling model

In October, Proton recorded sales of 12,799 units for both domestic and export markets, marking a 13.6 percent increase compared to the previous month.

This brings Proton’s year-to-date (YTD) sales total to 125,557 units, placing the national car brand second in the country’s automotive sales rankings.

Among the total sales, the Proton Saga remains a popular choice among buyers, with 6,112 units sold, bringing its YTD total to 60,178 units.

Proton is also hopeful that the Saga’s sales will surpass 70,000 units for the second consecutive year this year.

Although the Saga did not lead its segment, three other Proton models maintained top positions in their respective segments.

The Proton X50 emerged as the best-selling SUV in the B segment last month, with 2,122 units sold, while the Proton S70 returned to the top as the best-selling C segment sedan with sales of 1,432 units.

Proton’s flagship model, the X90, continued to lead sales in the D segment SUV category, recording a total of 245 units sold last month.

At the same time, Proton revealed that its first electric vehicle (EV), the e.MAS 7, will be officially launched next month (December 2024).

NEWS

Honda Super Cub 50 Final Edition: Farewell to an iconic affordable motorcycle!

Honda has officially announced the discontinuation of the Super Cub 50 cc model due to the implementation of stricter emission regulations.

To celebrate this milestone, Honda has launched the Super Cub 50 Final Edition, featuring classic colors of white and Bonnie Blue inspired by the original Super Cub.

The Super Cub 50 Final Edition also boasts a two-tone solo seat, a special “Honda 50 Final Edition” emblem, a classic instrument cluster, a rear rack, and a uniquely designed key.

For the Japanese market, the Super Cub 50 comes equipped with a 49 cc engine producing 3.6 hp and 3.8 Nm of torque.

Production of this Final Edition will be limited to just 2,000 units, each priced at ¥270,000 (approximately RM7,743).

In Japan, 50 cc motorcycles have been a key pillar of the transportation system during the post-war economic boom. Due to their affordability and fuel efficiency, they have also remained a popular choice among workers and students.

In addition to stricter emission laws, the rising popularity of e-bikes and electric scooters has contributed to a decline in sales of these small-displacement motorcycles.

NEWS

2024 SEMA: Toyota GR86 Rally Legacy Concept features GR Yaris engine and AWD GR-Four!

In addition to its lineup of custom trucks, Toyota has a special ‘menu’ to showcase at the SEMA 2024 exhibition.

This special offering is the GR86 Rally Legacy Concept, which boasts a design inspired by the 1990s Toyota Celica WRC rally cars.

In addition to its Castrol-inspired livery, this GR86 is equipped with striking red mud flaps, white rims, a Celica GT-Four-style rear wing, and a cluster of floodlights on the hood.

More remarkably, this GR86 is powered by a turbocharged 1.6-liter three-cylinder G16E-GTS engine that delivers 300 hp and 370 Nm of torque, paired with the GR-Four all-wheel drive system borrowed from the GR Corolla model.

Fitting the GR Corolla’s engine and drivetrain into the GR86 was no simple task.

Engineers had to design custom subframes and engine mounts before integrating the complete engine along with the hubs, spindles, and front axles from the Corolla.

Additionally, the GR86 is equipped with a rear differential to maintain the original gear ratios.

Inside the cabin, you’ll find racing seats and steering wheels from Sparco, a safety cage, and a sequential racing transmission shifter replacing the original manual gearbox.

With the debut of the GR86 Rally Legacy, does this mean Toyota is ready to offer a Celica model to its fans in the future?

NEWS

KL-Karak Highway Expansion Project begins next year

The expansion project for the Kuala Lumpur–Karak Highway (KLK) is slated to commence in January 2025 and is expected to be completed by 2029, according to an announcement made by Deputy Minister of Works, Datuk Seri Ahmad Maslan.

He stated that the project will be carried out by AFA Prime Berhad (formerly known as ANIH Berhad), which holds the concession for the KLK highway.

According to him, the KLK highway expansion will cover a distance of 45.3 kilometers (km) with a total cost amounting to RM2.1 billion, which will be fully funded by the highway concessionaire.

“Currently, the concession company is in the process of finalizing the design before commencing physical construction at the site, which is expected to start in January 2025.

“This delay is due to the recent completion of a shareholder change. According to the concession agreement, the construction period for the KLK expansion will take four years and is expected to be completed by 2029,” he said in the Dewan Rakyat today.

He made these remarks while responding to a question from Wan Razali Wan Nor (PN-Kuantan) regarding the government’s plans to address traffic congestion on the KLK and whether alternative routes will be constructed for the network leading to the East Coast from Kuala Lumpur.

Further commenting, Ahmad explained that the scope of the KLK expansion work, which runs from the Gombak Toll Plaza to Bentong, includes adding one lane to increase the existing three-lane section to four lanes for Section 1 (from Gombak Toll Plaza to Genting Sempah).

Additionally, he mentioned the expansion from the existing two lanes to three lanes in Section 2 (from Genting Sempah to Bentong).

“This scope of work will also involve the construction of a new two-lane tunnel adjacent to the existing tunnel in the eastbound direction,” he clarified.

NEWS

MODENAS opens pre-orders for the 2025 Kawasaki ZX-6R, priced at RM59,900

In conjunction with the launch of the Eliminator 500 cruiser motorcycle, MODENAS has also opened pre-orders for the 2025 Kawasaki ZX-6R super sports model.

With the starting price from RM59,900, this bike can be ordered at all Kawasaki All-Star showrooms from December 1 to January 31, 2025, with a deposit of RM500.

The first 50 owners will be invited to an exclusive handover event in Sepang in February 2025.

The specifications of the Kawasaki ZX-6R are as follows:

  • Engine: Inline 4-cylinder DOHC, 636 cc, Euro 5
  • Power: 122 hp @ 13,000 rpm
  • Torque: 69 Nm @ 10,800 rpm
  • Transmission: 6-speed, assist & slipper clutch
  • Front Suspension: 41 mm Showa SFF-BP fork
  • Rear Suspension: Single shock absorber, preload adjustable
  • Front Brake: Dual 310 mm rotors, 4-piston calipers
  • Rear Brake: Single 220 mm rotor, single-piston caliper
  • Screen: 4.3-inch TFT
  • Riding Modes: Sport, Road, Rain
NEWS

MODENAS launches Eliminator 500 cruiser, starting from RM30,100

In conjunction with the Malaysian MotoGP event, MODENAS has officially launched its latest cruiser, the 2025 Modenas Eliminator 500 with the price starting from RM30,100 (without insurance and roadtax).

This model is a rebadged version from Kawasaki Eliminator 500, aligning with the approach taken for previous motorcycles under 750 cc.

The Modenas Eliminator is powered by a parallel twin 451 cc engine, capable of producing 44.7 hp at 9,000 rpm and a torque of 43 Nm at 6,000 rpm.

Power is transmitted to the wheel via a six-speed manual transmission equipped with an assist-slipper clutch.

The Eliminator features a 41 mm front telescopic fork, complemented by twin shock absorbers with preload adjustment, offering a wheel travel of 120 mm at the front and 90 mm at the rear.

For stopping power, the motorcycle employs dual 310 mm disc brakes with twin-piston calipers at the front, paired with a single disc and a single-piston caliper at the rear. It also includes a two-channel anti-lock braking system (ABS).

The Eliminator 500 comes with 18-inch rims fitted with 130/70 front tires, and 16-inch alloy rims with 150/80 rear tires.

Additional features include LED headlights and taillights, an LCD cluster display with Rideology app support, a fuel tank capacity of 12.8 liters, and a seat height of 735 mm.

NEWS

2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class to feature 2.0L turbo engine developed by Geely

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The collaboration between Mercedes-Benz and Geely extends beyond just the smart EV brand.

According to a recent report from CarNewsChina, Mercedes will utilize an engine developed by Horse Powertrain Limited in its next-generation sedan the Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class, which previously relied on engines from Renault.

It is important to note that Horse Powertrain Limited is a joint venture owned 50:50 by Geely and Renault, responsible for producing engines that will be supplied to automotive companies such as Renault, Geely, Mitsubishi, Nissan, Volvo, and Proton.

The four-cylinder inline 2.0-liter turbo engine expected to be used in the 2026 CLA-Class is projected to deliver an output of 250 hp and a torque of 360 Nm.

This engine will be developed and manufactured in China, while the catalytic converter components will be assembled in Germany to ensure compliance with emissions standards.

Additionally, the CLA-Class will feature several other technologies, including a 48V mild hybrid system and a smart driver assistance system developed by the Chinese startup Momenta, in which Mercedes was one of the earliest investors.

The new CLA will also be available in a fully electric version, equipped with a rear-wheel drive electric motor delivering 235 hp, paired with an 89.6 kWh battery pack for a range of up to 750 km (WLTP data).

The MMA platform used by the CLA also supports an 800V electric architecture, allowing for 400 km of range to be added with just 15 minutes of charging.

Mercedes is expected to launch the new generation CLA model in 2025.

EV, NEWS

Hyundai Initium FCEV Concept design resembles Pontiac Aztek

Hyundai has recently unveiled a hydrogen-powered concept model – the Hyundai Initium FCEV Concept – set to replace the Hyundai Nexo and expected to hit the market in the first half of 2025.

The appearance of the Initium bears a strong resemblance to a peculiar crossover from the 2000s.

Here are five facts you should know about the Hyundai Initium FCEV Concept:

 

  1. Hydrogen SUV with a Range Exceeding 650 km

The Hyundai Initium is powered by a single electric motor generating 201 horsepower, driven by a fuel cell system. While the capacity of the hydrogen tank is not disclosed, the Initium is capable of traveling over 650 km on a full tank.

In comparison, the Hyundai Nexo generates a maximum power of 161 horsepower and has an EPA-rated range of 621 km.

 

  1. Enhanced FCEV System

According to Hyundai, the stated range can be achieved through improvements to the fuel cell system. These enhancements include increasing the output from the fuel cell stack, as well as boosting the battery pack capacity.

With these upgrades, the Initium will also support vehicle-to-load (V2L) functionality.

 

  1. New Design Language “Art of Steel”

Through the Initium, Hyundai aims to showcase its new design philosophy, “Art of Steel,” which will be applied to most future production models. At a glance, the Initium features design elements from existing models such as the IONIQ 5 and Santa Fe, incorporating a more striking look with LED graphics resembling the Windows logo at the front and rear.

All four corners are adorned with 21-inch aerodynamic wheels, along with a roof rack that includes built-in lights.

The rear design of the Initium evokes memories of the Pontiac Aztek, famed for its controversial aesthetics from 2000 to 2005.

 

  1. Family-Friendly Cabin Space

Currently, Hyundai has not disclosed the cabin layout but promises a comfortable space for family use, featuring larger door openings and more generous recline angles for the rear seats.

Safety features include a more robust chassis and nine airbags.

 

  1. Hyundai to Assist Owners in Finding Charging Stations

One of the main challenges for hydrogen vehicle owners is the difficulty in refueling due to a limited network of stations. To address this issue, Hyundai will create a dedicated route planner to help drivers locate hydrogen refueling stations along their routes.

This system will also check the operational status and availability of these stations in addition to tracking the number of vehicles waiting to refuel.

 

NEWS

2024 TASKL: Subaru BRZ and WRX debut with Songket and Bunga Raya motifs

TC Subaru Sdn Bhd, the exclusive distributor of Subaru vehicles in Malaysia, is set to enliven the Tokyo Auto Salon Kuala Lumpur 2024 by showcasing two vehicle models adorned with special liveries inspired by local design elements.

The unique liveries applied to the Subaru BRZ and WRX were created by Motorsport Playground, drawing inspiration from a blend of Japanese engineering culture and Malaysian heritage elements, such as Songket patterns and Bunga Raya motifs that replace traditional Sakura flowers.

It is noteworthy that Subaru previously participated in a time attack challenge at the PETRONAS Sepang International Circuit using standard factory-spec Subaru BRZ and WRX vehicles.

Leveraging the expertise of TD Racing, both cars underwent necessary preparations, including basic alignments and oil checks, before attempting the time attack.

Driven by professional racer Freddie Ang, the manual transmission Subaru BRZ recorded a time of 02:42.211, while the Subaru WRX with CVT completed the lap in approximately 02:43.472.

TC Subaru is also collaborating with local clothing brand Pestle & Mortar Clothing (PMC) to offer an exclusive streetwear collection available for purchase at TASKL 2024, taking place from November 8 to 10 at the Malaysian International Trade and Exhibition
Centre (MITEC).

NEWS

Proton R3 team announces S70 R3 drivers lineup for Sepang 1000KM

The Proton R3 racing division has announced the four drivers who will pilot two Proton S70 R3 vehicles for the Sepang 1000KM endurance race next month.

Car number 81 will be driven by the duo of Syafiq Ali and Fahrizal Hasan, while car number 82 will feature young drivers Alister Yoong and Ariff Azmi.

The pairings were selected based on their respective experiences in motorsport.

Syafiq Ali holds the record for the most individual wins in the history of the Sepang 1000KM race and has secured three podium finishes with Proton R3. Fahrizal Hasan has a long history of success in high-performance car racing, winning his class twice in the 12-Hour Sepang race.

Car number 82 features the youngest driving pair in Proton R3’s history, both of whom are products of the Axle Sports Academy, run by Alex Yoong, Malaysia’s only Formula 1 driver.

Twenty-one-year-old Alister Yoong has accumulated significant experience in single-seater racing, while 18-year-old Ariff Azmi is a karting champion who competed alongside Alister in last year’s 1000KM race.

Additionally, Proton R3 unveiled the actual race car, the Proton S70 R3, which will be used in the upcoming endurance race.

According to Roslan Abdullah, Deputy CEO of Proton, “Motorsport is a core component of Proton’s DNA, and our heritage in competitive racing began with the first Proton Saga.”

“Although we have not competed in the Sepang 1000KM for the past three years, the Proton R3 team has kept pace with the latest developments in the racing industry, resulting in rapid advancements in the race car just a year after the Proton S70’s launch.”

“The Proton R3 team has a long history of promoting young driver careers and enhancing their profiles through collaboration. We are excited to work with this talented driving team this year, which gives us the best chance to claim the title and bolster PROTON’s record as the most successful brand in the history of the Sepang 1000KM,” Roslan Abdullah added.

EV, NEWS

Toyota tests Hilux BEV prototype units at Australian mining site

The Toyota Hilux BEV was introduced in Thailand a few years ago, featuring a single cab body configuration.

To better suit the demands of mining operations, Toyota has decided to unveil a prototype unit of the Hilux BEV, based on the single cab body style.

In collaboration with mining company BHP, Toyota aims for this Hilux BEV prototype to provide invaluable data for developing a production model.

Over the next 12 months, this Hilux BEV pickup will replace diesel trucks for various operations at Port Hedland, one of the largest iron ore mining sites in the world.

This double-cab prototype Hilux BEV closely resembles the diesel engine version, with the only distinguishing feature being the presence of a charging port on the front fender.

Additionally, Toyota has fitted a bull bar at the front, complete with extra LED lights.

To date, Toyota has kept the specifications of the Hilux BEV prototype under wraps.

However, this is not the first time we’ve heard news about the use of electric Hilux trucks to replace diesel-powered vehicles in mining areas.

A few years ago, Toyota Australia developed an electric version of the Land Cruiser 70 Series as part of efforts to reduce emissions.

Last year, SEA Electric and MEVCO announced a AU$1 billion collaboration to develop 8,500 EV units based on the Hilux and Land Cruiser for use in the mining industry.

Moreover, in the UK, Toyota is conducting an initiative to test up to ten prototype Toyota Hilux units powered by fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV) technology adapted from the hydrogen sedan Toyota Mirai.

 

Toyota Hilux FCEV

EV, NEWS

Xiaomi SU7 Ultra prototype sets fastest lap time at Nurburgring, beating Porsche Taycan Turbo GT

Who would have thought that a manufacturer known for smart devices now has a compelling recipe to keep Porsche engineers on their toes at the Green Hell track?

Xiaomi Auto recently achieved a record for the fastest electric sedan lap around the Nurburgring Nordschleife, clocking in at 6 minutes and 48.874 seconds with its prototype model, the SU7 Ultra.

Despite being a prototype, it is fast enough to surpass the previous record set by the Porsche Taycan Turbo GT, which was 7 minutes and 7.55 seconds.

According to a report from CarNewsChina, the manufacturer initially faced significant challenges, as their attempts to set the record were postponed multiple times due to weather conditions.

The Xiaomi SU7 Ultra was announced in mid-2023 as a high-performance variant equipped with the HyperEngine V8s electric drive unit.

With a three-motor configuration, the Xiaomi SU7 Ultra can deliver a staggering 1,548 horsepower, accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in just 1.97 seconds, and achieving a top speed of 350 km/h.

This impressive performance figure comes from a manufacturer primarily known for consumer electronics.

Moreover, Xiaomi’s electric sedan has made a significant impact within the automotive industry.

According to reports from various media outlets, Ford CEO Jim Farley allegedly imported a unit from Shanghai and personally drove the Xiaomi SU7 sedan for six months.

“I don’t like to talk too much about competition, but I’ve driven the (sedan) Xiaomi. I’ve been driving it for six months and I don’t want to let it go,” he stated.

Xiaomi plans to revisit the Nurburgring in 2025 to attempt a new fastest lap record using a production model.

 

NEWS

Proton S70 R3 race car: five things you need to know

Proton through its motorsports division Proton R3, has just announced the lineup of drivers who will pilot the latest S70 R3 vehicle at the Sepang 1000KM (S1K) race next month.

At the same time, media representatives were introduced to the new race car that will be used by the Proton R3 team.

Here are five things you should know about the Proton S70 R3:

 

  1. Still using the Campro engine


As previously reported, the Proton S70 R3 will not compete with the 1.5-liter three-cylinder turbo engine.

Instead, it will utilize the long-standing Campro S4PH 1.6-liter engine, which has been in use since Proton R3’s involvement in the S1K with vehicles like the Preve, Suprima S, Iriz, Saga, and Satria Neo.

While Proton has not disclosed the exact specifications of this vehicle, earlier reports suggest that the S4PH engine fitted in the Saga and Iriz can produce over 200 hp!

 

  1. Why not use the original S70 engine or removing the turbo?

Proton is participating in the S1K race in the MTC category, which allows the use of different engines from the same manufacturer.

This means that Proton can save on development costs by referring to data obtained from previous races for this new vehicle.

If they were to use the original engine, Proton would require more time to gather the necessary data. The decision to remove the turbo from the original S70 engine was also deemed inefficient; thus, it is better for Proton to stick with the proven Campro engine, which has already won five S1K championships.

For S70 fans, there’s no need to worry, as Proton has revealed plans to join the race next year using a street-spec Proton S70.

 

  1. What’s different about the S70 R3?

Proton has added a front splitter, a rear spoiler, and 15-inch rims wrapped in 195/55 R15 tires.

Essentially, the suspension configuration of the S70 remains the same as the street model, compliant with regulations, but it has been enhanced with a set of dampers more suitable for racing.

 

  1. A cabin loaded with racing equipments

In the cabin area, all unnecessary equipment has been removed, and even the door panels have been replaced.

What remains are Recaro racing seats, an AP Racing pedal box, a Motec display screen, a manual gear knob, and the mandatory safety cage.

 

  1. Will there be a street version of the S70 R3?

Proton has previously revealed plans to produce a road version of the S70 R3, equipped with high-performance upgrades for public sale.

While it may not be available in the near future, the image gallery below allows you to imagine what the R3 variant of the S70 might look like on the road.

Will it have specifications similar to the S70 race car? As a Proton fan, we hope it’s not just a cosmetic change.