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

2024 Mitsubishi Xpander facelift, two variants, priced from RM99,980

The much-anticipated seven-seater MPV model has finally been officially launched by Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia, namely the 2024 Mitsubishi Xpander facelift.

This new Xpander still retains the inline-four 1,499 cc MIVEC engine capable of producing 105 PS @ 6,000 rpm and a torque of 141 Nm @ 4,000 rpm.

Power is transmitted to the front wheels through a 4-speed automatic transmission, unlike the Xpander models in the international market which are already equipped with a CVT gearbox.

In terms of dimensions, the facelifted Xpander measures 4,475 mm in length, 1,750 mm in width, 1,730 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,775 mm.

It also offers a turning radius as small as 5.2 meters and a ground clearance of 225 mm, among the best in its class.

There are two variants offered for the Malaysian market, namely the Xpander and the Xpander Plus.

As standard, both variants are equipped with modern T-shaped main headlights (front and rear), LED daytime running lights, foldable side mirrors, and two-tone 17-inch alloy rims.

Regarding the cabin space, both variants come with features such as a 4.2-inch TFT digital cluster screen, a large nine-inch central screen, support for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, automatic digital climate control buttons, a new design four-step adjustable steering wheel, and six speakers.

The base variant is only equipped with black trim on the bumpers, fabric-covered seats, and a reverse camera, while the Plus variant includes additional features such as:
-leatherette-covered seats
-360-degree surround camera system
-front and rear driving video recording cameras
-wireless device charging slot
-door visors
-rear spoiler
-scuff plate
-silver trim on the front and rear bumpers

Safety features included are two airbags, ABS, EBD, Brake Assist, Auto Hold, Hill Start Assist, Traction Control (TC), Active Stability Control (ASC), Emergency Stop Signal (ESS), seatbelt reminders, and ISOFIX seat anchors.

For the Malaysian market, the 2024 Mitsubishi Xpander facelift is priced from RM99,800 to RM109,980 for a limited time until 31st Disember 2024.

NEWS

Toyota Australia develops V8-powered GR Supra to race against Mustang, Camaro

Depending on the market, the Toyota GR Supra can be found with a choice of BMW engines, either a 2.0-liter inline-four cylinder engine (258 PS/400 Nm) or a 3.0-liter inline-six cylinder engine producing up to 387 PS/500 Nm of power.

However, for racing purposes, Toyota will sideline the German-made heart and prioritize a V8 engine to be fitted inside the GR Supra.

The V8-powered GR Supra race machine will compete in the Supercars Championship in Australia starting in 2026, with Toyota becoming the third manufacturer to join the competition against Ford Mustang and Chevrolet Camaro.

Reportedly, the V8-powered GR Supra race machine was internally developed by Toyota Australia in Altona to comply with the GEN3 Supercars Championship regulations.

The mentioned V8 engine already exists in high-performance Lexus vehicles such as the IS F, GS F, LC 500, and RC-F.

The naturally aspirated 5.0-liter aluminum heart (code 2UR-GSE) is capable of producing up to 481 PS/535 Nm of torque in the RC-F model, or 477 PS with a peak torque of 540 Nm in the LC 500 model.

Returning to the V8-powered GR Supra race machine, it will showcase the racing livery of the Walkinshaw Andretti United (WAU) team and will be piloted by drivers Chaz Mostert and Ryan Wood.

The WAU team previously raced under the Holden brand from 1987 to 2023, before switching to the Ford brand for three seasons, and will collaborate with Toyota starting in 2026.

Don’t celebrate too early, as this V8-powered GR Supra will only exist in racing form.

The road-going GR Supra will still continue with the inline-six cylinder engine offerings until its production ceases in the coming years.

However, before that, Toyota is reported to launch the Supra GRMN model with a retuned inline-six cylinder engine, a stiffer chassis, and improved aerodynamics.

NEWS

Indonesia Air Force orders 4 Airbus H145 helicopters

The Indonesian Air Force has placed an order for four Airbus H145 helicopters as part of its training modernisation programme, according to Bernama.

These multi-mission helicopters will be used for military training and light search-and-rescue missions.

The order was announced this week at the Bali International Airshow as part of an agreement between the Air Force and aerospace company PT Dirgantara Indonesia (PTDI), according to a statement from Airbus on Wednesday.

Under the agreement, Airbus will deliver H145s to PTDI, which will manage the reassembly and completion of the mission equipment and other customisation work at its facility in Bandung, Indonesia, for final delivery to the air force.

“We’re fully confident that the highly versatile H145 will make a positive impact in enhancing its military pilot training and at the same time be a critical enabler for its search-and-rescue operations,” Airbus Helicopters Asia-Pacific head Vincent Dubrule said.

PTDI president director Gita Amperiawan said the collaboration not only strengthens the long-standing partnership between PTDI and Airbus, but also showcases our commitment to providing innovative and reliable solutions for national operational needs

“Through this close partnership, PTDI will not only support the delivery of the H145 helicopters but will also enhance our capabilities in terms of integration and assembly at our facilities,” Gita said.

Airbus Helicopters and Indonesia have enjoyed a nearly 50-year partnership, beginning in 1976 with PTDI’s licence to produce the NBO-105 helicopter.

PTDI became a key supplier for the Airbus H225’s rear fuselage and main airframe in 2008, with full production in place in Indonesia in 2011.

The latest version of Airbus’ H145 adds an innovative five-bladed rotor to the multi-mission H145, increasing the useful load of the helicopter by 150 kilogrammes.

NEWS

Teenager loses RM2,000 to Yamaha RX-Z scam ads

A teenager suffered a loss of RM2,000 after falling victim to a scam involving the purchase of a Yamaha RX-Z motorcycle through the TikTok app.

The Chief of Police in the Kuala Terengganu District, Assistant Commissioner Azli Mohd Noor, stated that the 18-year-old teenager first saw the motorcycle sales advertisement at 3 pm on Sunday.

According to him, an account named ‘motosikal trusted malay’ on the app offered the motorcycle for RM4,000.

“The victim, who works as a laborer, was interested in the ad and contacted the suspect through the WhatsApp mobile app, expressing agreement to purchase the motorcycle.

“The victim then transferred RM2,000 as a deposit payment to the directed account at 4 pm on the same day,” he said here on Tuesday.

Azli mentioned that the victim realized he was being deceived when he became suspicious after the suspect demanded full payment for the motorcycle purchase.

“The victim then checked the shop’s account and discovered it was a ‘scammer’.

“The man proceeded to file a police report on the same day for further action, and this case is being investigated under Section 420 of the Penal Code for fraud,” he added.

EV, NEWS

Lotus Theory 1, a three-seater supercar concept with 1,000 PS power

Lotus seems to be relentless in introducing new powerful electric models.

The latest offering from the British manufacturer is a concept model named Lotus Theory 1.

This electric supercar features dual electric motors with all-wheel drive system capable of generating 1,000 PS of power.

It accelerates from 0-100 km/h in less than 2.5 seconds, reaching a maximum speed of 320 km/h.

Its 70 kWh battery pack allows a range of 402 km on a full charge.

The carbon chassis construction also contributes to keeping the weight below 1,600 kg.

Moreover, the exterior design of the Theory 1 is said to be inspired by the S1 Esprit, showcasing sharp edges and a cab-forward shape reminiscent of the mid-engined layout of the Esprit model.

The concept model also introduces several interesting innovations.

For instance, the adaptive robotic system Lotuswear, developed in collaboration with Motorskins, provides tactile feedback to the driver through the bumps generated on the seats and the steering wheel.

Lotus Theory 1 also comes with steer-by-wire steering system, allowing the driver to customize steering ratio and response according to individual preferences.

In the center of the carbon tub, Theory 1 features a three-seater layout, where the middle seat is dedicated to the driver, while the passengers sit on the driver’s right and left.

It is equipped with a head-up display screen, along with built-in speakers integrated into the headrest structure for each seat.

NEWS

Yamaha Motor president injured after being attacked by his own daughter

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The president of Yamaha Motor Co. sustained an arm injury Monday after his adult daughter allegedly attacked him with a kitchen knife at their house in central Japan, local police said.

The police arrested Hana Hidaka on suspicion of attempted murder of her father Yoshihiro, 61, by assaulting him with the weapon at around 3 a.m. Monday at the house in Iwata, Shizuoka Prefecture, they said.

The police responded to a call by the 33-year-old daughter, who told them that her father beat her.

She had also called the police at around 5:30 p.m. the previous day, they added.

An official of the Iwata-based company that manufactures motorcycles and other vehicles said it will refrain from commenting on the allegation as it is “a private matter that is under investigation.”

NEWS

Nissan registers ‘Z Warrior’ trademark in Australia

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The off-road sports car segment currently joined by the Porsche 911 Dakar and the Lamborghini Huracan Sterrato, may soon be enlivened by another newcomer, this time from the Land of the Rising Sun.

According to reports, Nissan has registered the trademark ‘Z Warrior’ with the IP Australia office, indicating the emergence of a Z sports car specifically designed to conquer off-road terrain.

Nissan had previously showcased an intriguing Safari Rally Z Tribute concept, inspired by the Datsun 240Z vehicle that won the 1971 East African Safary Rally.

The new generation Nissan Z has been equipped with a 2-inch higher KW Safari suspension, as well as prototype Nismo Safari 17-inch rims wrapped in Yokohama Geolander M/T G003 tires. Additional lighting units on the hood, bumper, and A-pillars further enhance the appearance of a true rally vehicle.

The original engine unit has also been tuned, with the twin-turbo 3.0-liter V6 engine being paired with several Nismo components, including dual clutches, a flywheel, heat exchanger unit, coolant tank, cold air intake system, carbon fiber wire harness protector, and a cat-back exhaust system.

It’s worth noting that Nissan Australia also offers the Warrior trim for models such as Navara and Patrol, both of which come equipped with body kits and accessories specifically designed to conquer various terrains across the globe.

NEWS

2025 Ford Ranger PHEV debuts, with 275 hp and 690 Nm, 45 km EV range

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Approximately a year after the announcement was made, Ford has officially launched the mid-size pickup truck Ford Ranger plug-in hybrid (PHEV) at the IAA Transportation 2024, Hannover.

The 2025 Ford Ranger PHEV is powered by the EcoBoost 2.3-liter turbo engine paired with a single 101 hp electric motor placed within the transmission bellhousing.

Overall, this PHEV can generate up to 275 hp and 690 Nm, much more powerful than the existing petrol and diesel engines for the Ranger (except for the Raptor).

This power is transmitted to the wheels through a 10-speed automatic transmission and the e-4WD system, featuring a rear differential lock and a two-range transfer case.

The 11.8 kWh battery pack allows this pickup truck to travel emission-free for up to 45 km, with a full charge possible in less than four hours.

In addition to the regenerative braking function, the Ford Ranger PHEV is also equipped with the Pro Power Onboard system, enabling owners to use power tools, charge electronic devices, or use it as a generator for off-grid activities.

As standard, the Pro Power Onboard system provides 2.3 kW of power, with an option for 6.9 kW.

Due to the addition of the PHEV system, Ford engineers have tweaked the pickup truck’s suspension system, yet it is still capable of carrying a payload of up to 1 ton and towing loads of up to 3,500 kg.

Externally, the appearance of the Ford Ranger PHEV 2025 is identical to the standard Ford Ranger, except for the presence of a charging port located near the fuel tank cap on the rear fender.

At the same time, Ford has also launched the special edition Ranger Stormtrak exclusively for the Ranger PHEV.

Unique features include 18-inch alloy wheels, honeycomb patterns on the grille, special decals, PHEV badging, and the exclusive Chill Grey color.

Additionally, the Ranger Stormtrak is equipped with Matrix LED headlights, a Flexible Rack System in the rear bed, a B&O sound system with 10 speakers, a 12-inch infotainment screen, and a 360-degree surround-view camera.

The Ford Ranger PHEV will be produced at the Silverton plant in South Africa and will be exported to the markets in Australia, Europe, and New Zealand in time for the spring of 2025.

NEWS

Goodyear donates Cargo Marathon 2 tyres to St. John Ambulance Malaysia

Goodyear Malaysia recently donated 60 units of Goodyear Cargo Marathon 2 tyres to the St. John Ambulance Malaysia, with contribution value exceeding RM25,000.

For nearly two decades, Goodyear Malaysia has played an active role in supporting St. John Ambulance to ensure their emergency vehicles are equipped with high-performance tyres.

This long-term collaboration reflects Goodyear’s mission and commitment to contribute to society by empowering those who safeguard public health and safety.

“St. John Ambulance is the foundation of emergency medical services in Malaysia, and Goodyear is proud to support their humanitarian and charitable work focused on saving lives,” said Ashwin Rajgopal, Managing Director of Goodyear Malaysia.

“Our latest donation reaffirms our dedication to ensuring that St. John Ambulance vehicles can perform at their best under any road conditions. By equipping their ambulances with advanced technology tyres, we can enhance the safety and efficiency of their operations so that aid can be delivered promptly, without any delays,” he added.

The Goodyear Cargo Marathon 2 tyre was selected to meet the needs of St. John Ambulance’s emergency response services, including at hemodialysis centers, Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) and KLIA2.

It features superior characteristics such as a polymer thread compound to ensure enhanced driving performance and braking on wet roads, as well as a closed flower pattern to ensure increased durability along with a quieter and smoother journey.

NEWS

Kia opens global training hub in Glenmarie, first in the APAC region

Kia Asia Pacific has unveiled the opening of the Kia Asia Pacific Training Centre, located in Glenmarie, Shah Alam.

It is the fifth global training hub established by Kia after openings in the United States, United Arab Emirates (UAE), Germany, and Russia.

According to Kevin Ahn, President and CEO of Kia Asia Pacific, “Malaysia was chosen from a list of 34 APAC markets due to its strategic location, allowing us to meet the growing industry needs.”

With an investment totaling RM3 million, this training center spans over 10,000 square feet, built to meet global standards set by the parent company Hyundai Motor Group.

The training center offers various facilities including theory classrooms equipped with high-tech displays, computer resource center, virtual repair simulations, and specialized equipment such as Kia diagnostic tools.

The latest Kia EV models such as EV6 and EV9, along with upcoming models like EV5 and EV3, are also available for training purposes.

Adjacent to the training center is the Kia 3S Flagship Centre, offering real-world exposure to trainees to further enhance their skills.

Upon completion of the program, each participant will receive a certification from Kia Asia Pacific confirming their skills and expertise within Kia’s global network.

It is understood that the training hub can accommodate up to 80 trainees at one time, with a target to train up to 3,000 individuals annually to support all 34 countries in the Asia Pacific region.

NEWS

2025 Bentley Flying Spur Speed, now with a more powerful PHEV V8 engine!

This is the fourth generation of the luxurious sedan Bentley Flying Spur Speed 2025, with a design that closely resembles the third-generation sedan.

There haven’t been many significant changes made to the exterior, except for the grille design, new 22-inch alloy rims, and the redesigned bumper openings.

Even the changes brought to the cabin space are more minimal in nature, except for the “Precision Diamond” pattern brought to the seating and door panels.

The major changes actually come in the engine space, where the discontinued W12 heartbeat has been replaced with the Ultra Performance Hybrid powertrain unit.

The 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engine can produce 592 hp, coupled with an 187 hp electric motor.

Overall, the Bentley Flying Spur 2025 can generate 771 hp and 1,000 Nm, allowing it to accelerate from 0-100 km/h in just 3.5 seconds.

The 25.9 kWh battery pack offers an emission-free driving range of up to 76 km.

In EV driving mode, the Flying Spur 2025 can operate with 187 hp/450 Nm power output, with a speed limit of 140 km/h.

With the combination of the battery and a full fuel tank, the Flying Spur Speed can travel up to 829 km.

As standard, Bentley equips the Flying Spur Speed model with various modern chassis technologies, including Bentley Performance Active Chassis, all-wheel steering, Bentley Dynamic Ride suspension, active torque vectoring, and limited-slip differential electronic control.

To ensure that no two Bentley Flying Spurs have the same finishing specifications, Bentley offers up to 10 billion customization options available, not including bespoke options from the Mulliner division.

For the exterior alone, there are over 101 color options, followed by 700 combinations of leather upholstery colors, eight wood veneer finishes, and three technical finishes for the cabin space.

Bentley offers a 650-watt audio system with 10 speakers as a standard feature, but buyers can upgrade to the 1,500-watt Bang & Olufsen system with 16 speakers or the 2,200-watt system with 19 speakers and Active Bass Transducers integrated into the front seats.

Not only that, the Flying Spur is also equipped with laminated glass on the front and side mirrors to make the cabin 9dB quieter.

Lastly, there is the option of the Wellness Seating Specification available for all four seats to ensure that every passenger remains comfortable at all times.

NEWS

Toyota Prius sets world record, 2.5L/100 km for over 5,000 km trip!

A new world record for the lowest fuel consumption rate has been set in the Guinness World Record for a driving distance exceeding 5,000 km, that is 2.5L/100 km.

This is much more efficient compared to the official figure of 57 MPG (4.12 liters/100 km) released by Toyota!

Wayne Gerdes drove a Toyota Prius LE from Los Angeles City Hall to New York City Hall, covering a distance of 5,168.7 km.

During the journey, he had to navigate routes at an elevation of 2,100 m and traverse the Mojave Desert where temperatures can reach as high as 40 degrees Celsius.

To achieve this figure, Gerdes suggested several tips that can be used to improve fuel efficiency.

These include driving slowly from stops while maintaining steady pressure on the pedal.

“For a record attempt like this, it requires meticulous planning. You need to have a plan and be able to quickly adjust that plan.

“So, if conditions change, you must alter your plan. Change your route. Think about what you can do to reach that goal,” he added.

The Toyota Prius LE has a fuel tank capacity of 43 liters, so based on a quick calculation, Gerdes may be able to achieve a distance of 1,693 km with each full tank refill.

It is indeed an impressive figure, considering Toyota’s official figure is only about 1,036 km.

EV, NEWS

Tesla Malaysia opens service center, V4 Supercharger station in Penang

Tesla Malaysia has announced the opening of a new service center located in Seberang Jaya, Penang.

The newly opened service center, which also includes a body and paint (B&P) workshop, is expected to accommodate the increasing number of customers in the northern region.

Additionally, Tesla owners can charge their electric vehicles at the V4 Supercharger station located in the B1 parking area of Gurney Plaza.

There are four 250 kW charging nozzles provided at a rate of RM1.25/kWh.

To date, Tesla has provided up to 12 Supercharger stations with a total of 56 charging nozzles, as well as 13 Destination Charger stations with 69 chargers throughout Malaysia.

TEST DRIVE

Haval H6 HEV, the most worthwhile hybrid SUV? – First Drive

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A few days ago, GWM Malaysia invited us to experience firsthand driving an upcoming hybrid SUV, the Haval H6 HEV.

Priced at an estimated RM145,000, it may very well be a very worthwhile purchase for those looking for a fuel-efficient, spacious, and comfortable SUV for the whole family.

Let’s briefly discuss the specifications of the Haval H6 HEV SUV.

Starting with the powertrain unit, the Haval H6 HEV is powered by a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, paired with a single electric motor and a Dedicated Hybrid Transmission (DHT) with two-speed ratios.

The engine is capable of producing 150 PS/230 Nm, while the electric motor can generate an additional 130 PS/300 Nm of power.

Overall, the Haval H6 HEV boasts 243 PS of power and 530 Nm of torque, making it one of the most powerful in its class.

During a brief two-day drive across south borders that didn’t require a passport, the writer found that the power delivered by this SUV was consistent, especially when extra power was needed to overtake trucks ahead.

On paper, the 530 Nm figure might seem high, but during our drive, we didn’t feel any sudden surges of power that could cause neck discomfort.

This is because the power delivered when the accelerator pedal was pressed was smooth and seamless, unlike the aggression often experienced with most electric cars.

The hybrid system is also very efficient, as the writer and colleagues hardly felt the engine start-up process. There were no noticeable engine vibrations, and the engine noise was well-filtered from entering the cabin.

With a fuel consumption rate of around 5.8 liters/100 km, GWM claims that the Haval H6 HEV can cover a distance of up to 1,000 km on a full tank.

Perhaps we can test this further if given the opportunity to drive this SUV in the future.

The NVH aspect is also satisfactory, as we were able to chat comfortably inside the cabin without raising our voices or using a microphone.

The wind noise attempting to penetrate the cabin didn’t disrupt our conversation; only the tire noise was audible. This was partly due to the unsatisfactory quality of the tires used in some areas.

Equipped with a suspension system consisting of MacPherson struts at the front and a multi-link setup at the rear, this SUV didn’t pose any significant handling or comfort issues.

For Malaysian highway networks, it offers a balanced suspension setup for slightly aggressive driving while maintaining comfort for the whole family.

Additionally, the body roll generated during cornering was acceptable, not making the SUV sway excessively.

In terms of dimensions, the Haval H6 HEV offers a much larger size compared to popular C-segment SUVs like the Honda CR-V and Proton X70.

The long wheelbase also contributes to a more spacious cabin to accommodate five people at a time.

Furthermore, the Haval H6 HEV provides a cargo space of 560 liters, or up to 1,485 liters when the second-row seats with a 60:40 ratio are folded.

The layout of the dashboard is quite neat, but the combination of three colors (black, white, and rose gold) may not be favored by some.

There is a 10.25-inch cluster screen (with somewhat limited theme options) and a 12.3-inch infotainment screen that supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

With a starting price below RM145,000, along with a package of specifications, the Haval H6 HEV could indeed be a very worthwhile purchase, especially for those who don’t have the budget to buy a hybrid SUV priced over RM200,000.

We will share more details and insights once given the opportunity to further test drive the Haval H6 HEV in the future.

Haval H6 HEV Specifications:

Engine: Four-cylinder in-line, 1.5-liter turbo
Power: 150 PS/230 Nm
Electric motor: 130 PS/300 Nm
Total power: 243 PS/530 Nm
Transmission: Dedicated Hybrid Transmission (DHT) two-speed
0-100 km/h acceleration: 7.7 seconds
Maximum speed: 175 km/h

NEWS

2024 Mitsubishi Xpander facelift, open for booking, RM115k

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Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia (MMM) has announced the opening of bookings for the seven-seater MPV model Mitsubishi Xpander 2024 facelift.

According to the CEO of Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia, Shinya Ikeda said, “Xpander has not only gained popularity in Malaysia, but it is also popular in the ASEAN region.

“MMM introduced the Xpander to the Malaysian market in 2020, and last month we celebrated 40,000 Xpander owners on the road. As the number one non-national MPV model, the Xpander is now one of the most important models for Mitsubishi Motors,” he added.

The facelift version brings cosmetic changes, where the 2024 Xpander now features more modern and aggressive lighting units, body kits along with a rear spoiler that cater to an active lifestyle taste.

The Xpander also offers a ground clearance of 225 mm, the best in its class, and a cargo space of 837 liters when the second-row seats are folded flat.

Furthermore, the Xpander facelift comes with features such as a driving video recorder camera and an electric parking brake to enhance the overall driving experience.

For the Malaysian market, the Xpander 2024 is still powered by a 1.5-liter inline-four engine generating 105 PS and 141 Nm, paired with a four-speed automatic gearbox, compared to the CVT transmission in other ASEAN markets.

For a limited time, the Mitsubishi Xpander 2024 facelift can be pre-ordered at the price of RM115k, where the first 500 customers who place orders through the Mitsubishi Online Showroom will receive a Naturehike Camping Wagon valued at RM400.

EV, NEWS

Foxconn, Sharp join forces to develop the LDK+ concept, an EV minivan that can be converted into a mobile home

Japanese electronics giant Sharp has teamed up with Foxconn to develop a new concept EV called the Sharp LDK+.

Inspired by the design of commercial van cab-overs, the Sharp LDK+ is described as a compact mobile home packed with various cutting-edge technologies.

Its silver exterior and boxy shape could easily be mistaken for high-tech home hardware, further emphasized by the presence of the Sharp brand logo at the front.

The Sharp LDK+ features sliding side doors with rather large openings, revealing a cabin space that can be customized according to the user’s needs.

There are rear seats that can swivel 180 degrees, transforming the space into a more comfortable lounge area.

The side windows also come equipped with liquid crystal curtain technology for privacy, along with an AI system that can control lighting and temperature based on user preferences.

A massive 65-inch display screen is installed on the rear tailgate door, which can be used for watching movies or holding video calls with loved ones.

The same space can also be transformed into a children’s play area or a personal office for off-hours work.

The Sharp LDK+ utilizes an EV platform built by Foxconn, with a battery pack of unspecified capacity that can serve as a backup power source for home use during emergencies.

To facilitate off-grid activities, the van also supports charging using solar panels installed on the roof.

The LDK+ concept van will be officially unveiled at the Sharp Tech-Day 24 exhibition taking place in Tokyo on September 17-18.

NEWS

Hennessey Venom F5-M is the most powerful manual car in the world, boasting 1,817 hp!

Say hello to the most powerful manual transmission roadster in the world, the Hennessey Venom F5-M.

Built based on the Venom F5 Roadster model, the Venom F5-M employs a twin-turbo 6.6-liter V8 engine capable of producing approximately 1,817 hp and 1,618 Nm of torque.

This power is transmitted to the wheels through a six-speed manual transmission, as opposed to the original model’s seven-speed AMT gearbox.

According to Hennessey, the Venom F5-M requires “maximum driver focus” while promising “a more extreme and immersive driving experience.”

To differentiate this model from any standard F5 Roadster, Hennessey has incorporated fairly long dorsal fins (1,400 mm) adorning the rear deck space.

As for the cabin space, the F5-M Roadster comes with new pedal boxes, aluminum/carbon fiber gear shifter with a shift gate made from billet aluminum.

Also presented is the yoke-style steering wheel featuring various functional buttons for the driver’s use.

Only 12 units of the Hennessey Venom F5-M will be produced, each priced at approximately $2.65 million (RM11.51 million) per unit.

It’s no surprise that all units have been sold out before it was even revealed to the public, demonstrating its high value in the eyes of enthusiasts.

NEWS

Toyota GR Starlet to be launched in 2026 as an affordable and practical FWD hot hatch

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The news about the revival of the Starlet model has long been circulating online.

According to the Japanese publisher Best Car Web, Toyota is planning to reintroduce the Starlet model as a replacement for the discontinued Toyota Passo.

Not only that, the Gazoo Racing racing division also plans to produce a turbocharged hot hatch GR Starlet (unofficial name) that will serve as the basis for the WRC Rally 4 racing vehicle.

The new Starlet model may use the same TNGA-B platform as the Yaris, but with smaller dimensions.

Best Car Web estimates the dimensions of the Starlet to be 3,850 mm in length, 1,725 mm in width, 1,475 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,450 mm.

For comparison, the Toyota Yaris (TNGA platform) measures 3,940 mm in length, 1,745 mm in width, 1,500 mm in height, and a wheelbase of 2,560 mm.

Unlike the GR Yaris, which uses the G16E-GTS 1.6-liter turbo engine, the GR Starlet may use a more simplified powertrain.

According to sources, the new hot hatch will be equipped with a 1.3-liter turbocharged inline-three engine based on the earlier 1.6-liter turbo engine, producing about 150 hp, front-wheel drive system, and a six-speed manual transmission.

Due to the absence of the all-wheel-drive GR-Four system, it also contributes to a lighter weight, approximately 980 kg, or 300 kg lighter than the GR Yaris.

Additionally, the actual production model of the Starlet is expected to appear in 2026, while the rally car Starlet will showcase its prowess in the 2027 racing season.

EV, NEWS

Toyota lowers global EV production target by 30 percent for 2026

Like other manufacturers, Toyota has also been affected by the decline in demand for electric vehicles.

According to the latest report from the Japanese newspaper The Mainichi, Toyota has reduced its global production target for electric vehicles by 30 percent by the year 2026.

The company is now aiming to produce around 1 million units, compared to the original plan of 1.5 million EV units.

Toyota, previously characterized as a ‘stubborn’ manufacturer, changed their electrification strategy early last year when their president Koji Sato announced a sales target of 1.5 million EV units by 2026.

The global EV market initially experienced rapid growth, thanks to the popular models produced by Tesla and BYD.

However, sales in the zero-emission segment have been slow as they have failed to attract interest from other consumer groups beyond early adopters due to high costs and charging infrastructure issues.

Throughout 2023, Toyota managed to sell 104,000 EV units, a fourfold increase compared to the previous year.

This figure is significantly small when compared to the total vehicle sales exceeding 10 million units.

In comparison to EVs, Toyota’s hybrid vehicles have been well-received as they offer a more practical solution in driving carbon neutrality missions.

Despite the plans to decrease EV production, Toyota will respond to current market demand by increasing production numbers for plug-in hybrid vehicles.

NEWS

Super GT Race returns to shake up Sepang Circuit in 2025

Perhaps not many are aware, but Malaysia was once the official location for the Super GT race, starting from 2000 and ending in 2013.

After 11 years of silence, the Super GT race is set to return and shake up the PETRONAS Sepang International Circuit for three seasons, from 2025 to 2027.

In relation to this, a signing ceremony for the agreement took place this afternoon between HARO Sports & Entertainment as the rights holder and promoter for the Malaysian leg of Super GT and GT Association (GTA) as the rights holder for Super GT.

The agreement was signed by Fahrizal Hasan (HARO Sports & Entertainment) and Masaaki Bandoh (President & CEO of GTA), and witnessed by YB Khairul Firdaus Akbar Khan, the Deputy Minister of Tourism, Arts, and Culture.

Also present at the signing event were Azhan Shafriman Hanif, CEO of the PETRONAS Sepang International Circuit, and S. N. Nanthan, Secretary General of the Motorsports Association of Malaysia (MAM).


Malaysia remains the only location outside of Japan for the 2025 racing season, after the last Super GT race outside Japan was held in Thailand in 2019.

Here are the locations for the Autobacs Super GT 2025 races:

Opening Round (April 12-13) – Okayama International Circuit
Second Round (May 3-4) – Fuji Speedway
Third Round (June 27-28) – PETRONAS Sepang International Circuit
Fourth Round (August 2-3) – Fuji Speedway
Fifth Round (August 23-24) – Suzuka Circuit
Sixth Round (September 20-21) – Sportsland Sugo
Seventh Round (October 18-19) – Autopolis International Racing Course
Eighth Round (November 1-2) – Mobility Resort Motegi

Super GT consists of two main classes, namely GT500 featuring manufacturers such as Toyota, Honda, and Nissan, while the GT300 class comprises Subaru and Lexus participants.

This prestigious race was supposed to make a comeback in 2020, but it had to be canceled due to the global COVID-19 pandemic.

Interestingly, the Super GT teams and drivers describe the Malaysian rounds as a unique and quite challenging experience in track racing due to the extreme heat and unpredictable heavy rains, unlike the usual conditions experienced in Japan.

Super GT 2025 will bring various attractions for its fans, such as Race Ambassadors, open pit sessions, pit walks, grid walks, and the Circuit Safari, where fans have the opportunity to experience the action on the track up close.