Following the launch of the maxi adventure scooter Vanguard 250 earlier this year, Aveta Malaysia has now introduced two more affordable scooters from the Nova series: the Nova 125 and the Nova 160.
Aveta Nova 125
The Nova 125, priced at RM5,188, is designed to meet the needs of various groups, including students looking for a more budget-friendly vehicle.
It is powered by a single-cylinder, air-cooled 125 cc engine that produces 9.0 hp at 8,000 rpm and a torque of 8.6 Nm at 6,500 rpm, paired with a CVT transmission.
The suspension system features telescopic front forks and a swing arm with a mono-shock absorber at the rear.
Additionally, it comes equipped with a Combined Brake System (CBS), comprising a front disc brake and a rear drum brake, along with 14-inch wheels shod with 80/90-14 tires in front and 90/90-14 tires at the rear.
Other features include a 6-liter fuel tank, an LCD digital meter panel, a USB charging socket, and a seat height of 765 mm.
The Aveta Nova 125 is available in Peach Berry, Grey Lemon, and Blue Lemon colors.
Aveta Nova 160
Fans of a sportier scooter can opt for the Aveta Nova 160, with a starting price of RM7,988.
This model is powered by a single-cylinder, liquid-cooled 154.4 cc engine that delivers 15.8 hp at 8,500 rpm and a torque of 14.7 Nm at 6,500 rpm, also combined with a CVT transmission.
The suspension includes telescopic front forks and dual shock absorbers with a sub-tank at the rear.
The Nova 160 comes with front and rear disc brakes, but unfortunately, it does not feature anti-lock braking system (ABS) for safety.
Additional features include a 10-liter fuel tank, keyless system, Idling Stop System (ISS), a digital meter panel, LED lighting system, a USB charging socket, and a seat height of 778 mm.
The Nova 160 is available in Raven Red, Aveta Blue, and Copper Blaze colors.
Both the Nova 125 and Nova 160 models will be available in the Malaysian market starting March 2025.
After making its debut in Singapore last month, the 2025 facelift version of the Tesla Model Y has officially arrived in the Malaysian market.
According to specifications provided by Tesla Malaysia, this electric SUV is available in two main variants: the RWD priced at RM195,450 and the Long Range All Wheel Drive (AWD) priced at RM242,450.
The base RWD variant offers a range of up to 466 km (WLTP data), accelerates from 0-100 km/h in 5.9 seconds, and has a maximum speed of 201 km/h.
Meanwhile, the Long Range AWD variant allows for a driving range of up to 551 km on a full charge, with an impressive acceleration from 0-100 km/h in just 4.3 seconds.
Buyers can choose between 19-inch Crossflow wheels or upgrade to 20-inch Helix 2.0 wheels for an additional RM10,000. There are also five color options available: Stealth Grey, Pearl White Multi-Coat (+RM5,000), Glacier Blue (+RM7,500), Quicksilver, and Ultra Red (+RM11,000).
Several changes have been implemented in this facelift version of the Tesla Model Y:
Horizontal LED light bars at the front and rear inspired by the Tesla Cybertruck
Double-glazed windows for a quieter cabin
A silver film layer on the panoramic glass roof to reduce UV and heat impact
New wheel designs and a rear diffuser to decrease aerodynamic drag, enhancing driving stability and reducing noise
The cabin features ambient lighting, ventilated seats, and a display screen for the second row, similar to the Tesla Model 3
For the Malaysian market, there is also a limited edition Tesla Model Y Launch Edition available.
It features a unique badge on the rear, logoed puddle lights, the words “Launch Series” on the door sills, vegan suede trims, and special finishes on the charging console and floor mats.
Basic Autopilot features are provided as standard equipment; however, buyers can opt for the Enhanced Autopilot package (+RM16,000), which adds functionalities such as Navigate on Autopilot, Auto Lane Change, Autopark, Smart Summon, and Actually Smart Summon.
The Full Self-Driving (FSD) package is priced at RM32,000 and includes all the features available in both Basic Autopilot and Enhanced Autopilot, along with additional functionalities like Autosteer and Traffic Light & Stop Sign Control.
This is Kia’s latest electric model, the Kia EV4, the fifth model in the Kia “EV” series, following the EV3, EV5, EV9, and EV6 models.
Built on the E-GMP platform and featuring a design approach similar to its siblings, the Kia EV4 will be available in both hatchback and sedan (fastback) versions.
Both hatchback and sedan models share the same front design, including the EV Tiger Face, headlight units, and LED daytime running lights at the end of the bumper, along with protective plastic cladding on the wheel arches.
The key distinguishing factor between the two models is undoubtedly the design at the rear.
For the sedan version, the Kia EV4 showcases a ‘long tail’ design concept inspired by iconic supercars, followed by a more streamlined roofline towards the back and vertical taillight units.
In contrast, the hatchback version features a more conventional and dramatic light structure, a smaller rear window, and is topped off with a roof spoiler.
Buyers will also have the opportunity to purchase the Kia EV4 in the GT-Line variant, which offers 19-inch wheels, along with sportier front and rear bumpers.
More details, including the cabin design, will be revealed ahead of the official global launch at the end of this month.
To this date, the use of electric vehicles with hydrogen fuel cell systems (FCEVs) is still not as widespread compared to electric vehicles (EVs).
Take, for instance, the Toyota Mirai, a hydrogen-powered sedan that has been available since 2014, with over 28,000 units sold in more than 30 countries.
This is a relatively small figure.
However, in addition to the passenger car market, Toyota has also been supplying this fuel cell system for other uses, such as buses, trains, and stationary power generation systems since 2019.
Looking ahead, Toyota still believes that this hydrogen system can serve as a better alternative to internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles and EVs.
The third-generation fuel cell system was officially introduced recently, promising a more compact unit and a driving range that is 20 percent longer (up to 772 kilometers).
Furthermore, Toyota claims that this third-generation system can achieve durability comparable to that of diesel engines while offering maintenance-free design benefits.
Through innovations in cell design and manufacturing processes, this system is also cheaper to produce, contributing to a more affordable sales price.
The third-generation fuel cell system will not only be used for the passenger vehicle segment but is also expected to be expanded to the heavy-duty commercial vehicle segment for markets in Japan, Europe, North America, and China by 2026.
When the name Zontes is mentioned, many will certainly recall the Zontes 368G ADV adventure scooter that recently entered the Malaysian market early last year.
However, if we look back five years ago, it was a name that was quite unfamiliar, especially at a time when many well-known motorcycle brands had already established themselves here.
For your information, Zontes is one of over 200 motorcycle brands in the Chinese market and is also one of the brands owned by Guangdong Tayo Motorcycle Technology Co. Ltd, which was established in 2003.
There, Zontes is responsible for producing a range of medium and large displacement motorcycles, and the brand has now established a presence in several key markets worldwide.
At the end of 2024, our team along with a group of other automotive media had the opportunity to visit the Tayo factory located in Guangdong, China.
There were several interesting things we noticed during our visit to this state-of-the-art factory:
1. Before entering the factory, one must go through a door that resembles a military base seen in sci-fi stories. It can be activated through a facial recognition process.
2. Tayo Factory has nearly 4,000 employees, with 60 percent being graduates with college degrees or higher—primarily young people!
It is not surprising that we see their product lineup consistently featuring fresh specifications.
3. Of that number, approximately one thousand are placed in the research and development (R&D) department. Some were seated in front of computers, while we noticed some of them working on motorcycle models made of clay.
Unfortunately, we were not allowed to photograph those models.
4. Zontes also handles complaints about motorcycle components received from owners, including those from overseas, where the responsible engineers must resolve the issues within 24 hours (only on working days).
5. The Tayo Factory has up to 12 production lines responsible for manufacturing various motorcycle and scooter models.
6. According to the officials on duty, Zontes produces all engine components (including the crankshaft, engine outer casing, gears, and balancers) used in their motorcycle model lineup without assistance from third parties.
7. 60 to 70 percent of motorcycle components (excluding engines) are also produced in-house at this factory, including swingarm units, body panels, seats, and display screens.
Only components like tires and suspension systems are imported from external suppliers.
8. As a sophisticated factory, advanced robotic technology is fully utilized for manufacturing tasks such as forming aluminum and plastic components, welding frames and fuel tanks, as well as painting parts.
9. To ensure high-quality workmanship, the Tayo factory imports several special robots from overseas and programs them specifically for the factory.
For example, there are plastic component printing machines from Germany, painting robots from Japan, CNC machines from Germany, and Panasonic-weld robots (from Japan).
10. The welding unit in the factory can complete an entire Zontes 368 scooter frame in just 210 seconds, without human assistance!
11. To ensure that every produced component meets standards, there are rapid scanning machines available to check quality while the manufacturing process is still ongoing.
If the machines detect any issues, production on that line will be halted immediately.
12. Is the existing technology sufficient?
No, because we were informed that Tayo has invested RMB 5 billion (approximately RM3 billion) to fully utilize autonomous robots to help increase production volumes.
Moreover, during our visit, we also witnessed the installation processes for new machines and robots that were underway in the factory.
Given the level of sophistication and precision displayed, and hopefully with solid sales and after-sales support, it is not impossible for the Zontes brand to one day stand out even more in the Malaysian market.
Last weekend, Sentinel Automotive Sdn Bhd officially opened the first Zeekr Space exhibition center located in Petaling Jaya.
Spanning approximately 660 square meters, Zeekr Space invites customers to explore a vision of cleaner and smarter mobility.
In addition to showcasing the latest models, customers are also encouraged to test-drive existing Zeekr models, including the Zeekr X and the Zeekr 009 minivan.
According to Alex Bao, Managing Director of Zeekr Southeast Asia, “Zeekr is committed to offering high-quality, premium products with advanced technology designed to enhance the driving experience for customers worldwide.”
“Our focus remains on delivering vehicles with unparalleled performance, sophisticated design, and cutting-edge technology.”
Since the official launch in December last year, Zeekr Malaysia has distributed approximately 200 units of the Zeekr X and Zeekr 009 models.
In his opening speech, Alex Bao also revealed that the company plans to launch another new model, the Zeekr 7X SUV, in the third quarter of this year.
The Zeekr 7X is a mid-size electric SUV with dimensions similar to the EQE SUV and offers a range of nearly 780 kilometers on a full charge.
Buyers can choose between a single rear-wheel drive (RWD) version with a power output of 421 PS and 440 Nm, or an all-wheel drive (AWD) version featuring two electric motors with a combined power output of 646 PS and 710 Nm.
At this time, Zeekr Malaysia has not yet determined which version will be offered in the local market.
Zeekr Space Petaling Jaya is located at 58, Jalan Profesor Diraja Ungku Aziz, PJS 12, 46200 Petaling Jaya, Selangor.
Production of the limited edition 911 Dakar model wrapped up last November, with only 2,500 units produced worldwide.
However, don’t be disheartened, as reports indicate that Porsche is working to reintroduce the 911 Dakar with a more powerful engine.
According to a report from Autocar citing several sources, the new Porsche 911 Dakar is currently being developed at the Weissach engineering center and will be offered in limited units.
The report also states that this “facelifted” 911 Dakar will feature an innovative T-Hybrid engine that has already debuted in several facelift variations of the 911 launched for the 2025 model year.
The T-Hybrid powertrain in question combines a brand new 3.6-liter turbo flat-six engine with an electric motor and a 1.9 kWh battery pack.
This setup is capable of producing up to 534 hp and 750 Nm of torque, significantly more powerful than the existing 3.0-liter flat-six engine with 437 hp found in the current 911 Dakar.
This increased power will help the new 911 Dakar achieve a faster 0-100 km/h acceleration time compared to the previous model’s 3.4 seconds.
For reference, the facelifted 911 GTS with the new T-Hybrid engine can accelerate from a standstill to 100 km/h in just 2.9 seconds.
More details are expected to be announced ahead of the official launch scheduled for later this year.
If you have been closely following Toyota’s developments, you may have come across some news about the comeback of an iconic name – Celica.
Rumors about the return of the Celica name have been circulating online for years.
However, all speculation was finally put to rest when Vice President Yuki Nakajima confirmed the news of a new Celica model’s development to the public during the Rally Japan event in November 2024.
This news was further strengthened by a recent report indicating that the manufacturer has registered the trademark “GR Celica” in the Brazilian market, dated January 15, and officially published on February 4, according to Carscoops.
With this development, it suggests that the GR Celica model will also be offered in South America alongside primary markets such as Europe and Japan.
Several reports suggest that the GR Celica will be powered by a 2.0-liter inline-four turbo engine, generating around 400 hp and paired with the GR-Four all-wheel drive system.
This new engine has already been showcased by Toyota in the GR Yaris M Concept, featuring the G20E code positioned mid-ship.
Two questions arise: Is the GR Yaris M Concept actually an indication of the engine configuration for the GR Celica, or does it refer to another model, namely a successor to the MR2?
Less than two months after the announcement was made, Honda and Nissan have decided to cancel their merger plans.
According to the original plan, the merger between Honda and Nissan was set to create the world’s third-largest automotive group, following Toyota and Volkswagen.
Citing a report from Japan News, Nissan rejected Honda’s proposal to make it a wholly-owned subsidiary, causing the merger discussions to become disrupted.
In a previous announcement, both parties signed a memorandum for cooperation in electric vehicles (EVs) and several related areas, including vehicle software.
In December, Honda and Nissan announced plans to form a holding company that would oversee the operations of their respective brands.
The merger was originally intended to reduce costs and alleviate financial burdens, thus enabling both brands to compete with global players like Tesla and BYD.
Both Honda and Nissan were expected to announce the results of their discussions at the end of January; however, this was postponed to mid-February.
Despite the cancellation of the merger plans, Honda and Nissan are reportedly set to continue their strategic partnership along with Nissan’s partner, Mitsubishi.
After four months of pre-orders, today, Motosikal & Enjin Nasional Sdn Bhd (MODENAS) delivered the all-new Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R mid-range supersport model to the first 100 owners.
The delivery event, held at the Petronas Sepang International Circuit, was attended by Kawasaki dealers, loyal fans, and representatives from the media.
Initially, MODENAS targeted only 50 units; however, due to overwhelming demand, this number was doubled to 100 units.
This also marked the completion of sales for the first two batches in a short period.
In terms of specifications, the Ninja ZX-6R is powered by a 636 cc inline four-cylinder engine that produces 122 hp and 69 Nm of torque, paired with a 6-speed transmission that features an assist and slipper clutch.
The suspension system comprises Showa SFF-BP 41 mm front forks, followed by a single rear shock absorber.
The braking system relies on four-piston calipers and dual 310 mm rotors at the front, as well as a single-piston caliper and 220 mm rotor at the rear.
Electronic assistance features include traction control (KTRC), a quickshifter, three riding modes (Road, Rain, Sport), and a 4.3-inch TFT display that can connect to smart devices.
Assembled at the MODENAS factory in Gurun, Kedah, the Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R is priced starting from just RM59,900.
In the past, the name “Cross Country” was used by Volvo to bridge the gap between wagon models and SUVs.
However, it is now being applied to the brand’s most compact SUV, the Volvo EX30 Cross Country.
This rugged version of the Volvo EX30 features unique characteristics, such as matching protective plastic paneling, a skid plate, and exclusive 18-inch rims fitted with all-terrain tires.
Additionally, Volvo has modified the rear suspension settings of the EX30 Cross Country to better handle more challenging terrains.
At the front, a black panel displays a relief map of the Kebnekaise mountain range in Sweden.
As standard, the Volvo EX30 Cross Country is equipped with a dual electric motor producing 422 hp and 542 Nm of torque, paired with a 69 kWh battery pack.
While the originally stated range of 427 km may be difficult to achieve with the aforementioned all-terrain tire setup, there’s no need to worry.
The Volvo EX30 supports DC fast charging at 153 kW, allowing the battery to charge from 10 to 80 percent in just 28 minutes.
The Edge news portal reports that highway concessionaire PLUS Expressways Bhd will start a pilot trial of its own barrierless toll system beginning this April.
The Multi-Lane Free Flow (MLFF) system, developed in-house, aims to prevent misuse and exploitation of profits during its implementation.
Additionally, the company will collaborate with the Road Transport Department (JPJ) to impose penalties on users who fail to pay their outstanding tolls.
According to an industry executive, the objective of the partnership with JPJ is to ensure that users with outstanding toll payments settle their debts before they are allowed to renew their road tax.
The Edge also reported that PLUS has a unique advantage, as the company owns a subsidiary, Teras Teknologi Sdn Bhd, which currently provides electronic toll payment systems to other highway concessionaires.
In addition to PLUS, other concessionaires that have already begun trials of the MLFF system include Projek Lintasan Kota Holdings Sdn Bhd (Prolintas) and Amanat Lebuhraya Rakyat (ALR).
The Ministry of Finance (MOF) has asserted that there will be no increases in vehicle prices starting in 2026.
In a report by Bernama, MOF addressed the anticipated significant rise in vehicle prices beginning in 2026, following the full enforcement of the new excise tax regulation, P.U. (A) 402/2019 – Excise Tax Regulation (Determination of the Value of Locally Produced Goods for Excise Tax Purposes).
Additionally, MOF, along with the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI) and the automotive industry, is examining vehicle valuation methods to ensure the fair, uniform, and consistent implementation of the tax.
No final decisions have been announced at this time.
Previously, a local financial news portal cited industry sources indicating that the automotive sector has successfully secured an extension for the proposed review of excise duties for local assembled cars (CKD) until December 31 of this year.
The sources indicated that although a deferral has been granted for now, it is unlikely that any further extensions will be available after 2026, with vehicle prices expected to rise significantly starting in 2026.
Buyers in Malaysia seeking a B-segment sedan are quite fortunate, as we are presented with several attractive models including the Honda City, MG5, Nissan Almera, Proton Persona, and not to forget the Toyota Vios.
This segment is precisely suitable for those looking to upgrade to a larger daily vehicle after enjoying the experience of using a budget hatchback.
It offers a comfortable cabin for the whole family, ample cargo space, and a variety of modern technologies in line with current developments.
Most importantly, the annual road tax costs remain within the financial reach of most buyers.
The Toyota Vios was officially launched in 2023, but at that time, many may not have been fully receptive to its somewhat aggressive design.
However, the Vios has certainly found a place in the hearts of netizens, as it became one of the 10 most popular models in Malaysia for 2024, trailing the Honda City by just 1,900 units.
After two years have passed, is the Vios still worth owning in 2025? If you ask us, the answer is: Yes!
Here are five reasons why we believe the Vios should be considered by young people.
1. More Premium Appearance
In the past, the Vios had a rather ordinary sedan appearance. In fact, one generation of the Vios was likened to a dugong due to its round design.
However, this new generation of the Vios presents a bolder look, reminiscent of larger Toyota sedans like the Corolla and Camry.
Have you noticed that the front design of the Vios notably features elements inspired by the hammerhead shark, even before Toyota popularized it through models like the Prius and Crown?
The fastback sedan design, 17-inch wheels, diffuser, aerodynamic elements, and body kit contribute to the aggressive aesthetic of this sedan.
More importantly, the Vios can now proudly stand alongside the two sedans mentioned earlier.
2. More Fun to Drive
The Vios is not just a new exterior; it now boasts a foundation built on a brand-new platform developed in collaboration with Daihatsu.
The Daihatsu New Global Architecture (DNGA-B) platform, shared with models like the Perodua Alza/Toyota Veloz, provides significant benefits in terms of handling and comfort.
In short, the Vios is now more enjoyable to drive compared to its predecessors!
The author personally tested the harmonious tuning of steering, suspension, and chassis recently on a trip back to their hometown.
The improved driving dynamics are attributed to the more precise steering response, offering more feedback in any situation.
It is very easy to anticipate the sedan’s body movements, particularly when driven a bit aggressively, aided by well-tuned suspension that ensures stability on winding roads.
At times, the author found it exhilarating to tackle every curve before being reminded by the lane departure warning system (LDW) present in the Vios.
What about the engine performance?
As you may know, the Vios is equipped with a 1.5-liter engine producing 104 hp and 138 Nm of torque — on paper, this seems less powerful compared to competing models.
Yes, we admit there is still some engine noise that enters the cabin when the engine is pushed, but this occurs only occasionally. However, if you have a heavy right foot, that’s a different story.
Most of the time, the Vios has no trouble reaching the desired speed, and tackling mountainous areas is also not a significant issue.
This is because the Vios has been tuned for more economical fuel consumption, with Toyota claiming it can achieve a fuel efficiency rate of 5.2 liters/100 km.
One aspect that clearly sets the Vios a step above a competing local brand.
My experience returning to my hometown, which is located at the midpoint of Peninsular Malaysia, did not require frequent fuel refills.
3. Comfort is Paramount
In addition to driving factors, what makes the Vios feel more premium is the remarkably quiet cabin environment throughout the journey.
The standard suspension tuning provided in the Vios not only enhances driving pleasure but also minimizes any harshness and vibrations resulting from tire and road surface interactions.
As a result, the cabin remains comfortable and quiet, even the sound of the wind is difficult to hear at normal highway speeds.
One notable drawback of the Vios is the manual seat adjustment for both the driver and front passenger.
However, we believe this shortcoming can be overlooked due to the very supportive cushion dimensions, especially in the thigh area.
For those who enjoy long journeys, this feature is crucial for ensuring comfort throughout the drive, preventing excessive fatigue.
The cabin design of the Vios represents a significant upgrade introduced by Toyota to differentiate it from the previous Vios model.
The use of higher-quality materials and finishes, along with a more streamlined dashboard layout, successfully gives the Vios a more premium appearance, even though it shares many components with Daihatsu models.
One thing the author noticed is that although there are panel gaps on the dashboard, it is difficult to detect vibrations when the sedan traverses uneven surfaces, indicating a good level of factory assembly quality.
However, I hope the air conditioning control knobs can be improved in appearance to align better with the premium image that the dashboard aims to convey.
The quality of the air conditioning system in the Vios is not to be taken lightly; it is highly effective in keeping the cabin comfortable in Malaysia’s hot daytime temperatures.
4. Modern Features in the Vios
In line with current developments, the Vios also showcases several advanced features compared to competing models.
One of them is the digital cluster screen with various graphic display options that can be changed. If you prefer not to have an analog display, you can opt for the GR Corolla meter display.
The Vios is also equipped with a 360-degree camera system, enhancing its premium feel over competing models.
The resulting display image is quite clear, aiding owners in ensuring that the Vios’ beautiful body remains free from scratches, especially in tight areas.
Finally, the Vios includes an electronic parking brake (EPB) complete with an Auto Hold function, which is particularly helpful when caught in traffic congestion.
The Vios’s safety features are noteworthy as well; it includes a pre-collision system (PCS) that effectively prevents unintended collisions, adaptive cruise control (ACC), and forward motion alerts (FDA) to warn drivers who might lose focus at traffic signals.
The lane departure warning (LDW) feature also functions well, and I particularly enjoyed the notification sound reminiscent of warnings that pilots hear in an aircraft cockpit.
Additionally, the blind spot monitoring system (BSM) and rear cross traffic alert (RCTA) ensure day-to-day driving remains safe at all times.
5. Forgivable Weaknesses
As you may know, the Vios does have a few shortcomings, such as the absence of a spare tire and non-folding rear seats.
According to Toyota, most users do not utilize either of these functions, so they are not offered in the new Vios.
The absence of a spare tire allows for more hidden storage space in the rear.
What about the rear seating issue mentioned earlier?
Two years ago, the Chief Development Engineer of the Vios, Kamino Hideyuki, revealed that the lack of a rear seat folding mechanism was replaced with a brace to enhance the rigidity of the new Vios chassis.
Overall, the Vios is 110 kg lighter than its predecessor. As the saying goes: Weight reduction, bro!
In our opinion, these two weaknesses can be overlooked because the benefits of driving experience and handling are significantly improved in this Vios compared to earlier models.
In conclusion, the Toyota Vios is a B-segment sedan that is still worth considering and owning in 2025 if you have a budget of around RM100,000 and wish to upgrade to a larger, more practical vehicle.
More importantly, the Vios is now a car that is more enjoyable to drive!
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim received an electric SUV as a gift from Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan yesterday (February 11).
The Togg T10X was presented as a symbol of friendship between the two countries during President Erdogan’s recent official visit to Malaysia.
The Togg T10X is a segment C electric SUV produced by the Turkish automotive manufacturer Togg.
There are two powertrain configurations available: a rear-wheel drive (RWD) version with 218 hp and 350 Nm of torque, and an all-wheel drive (AWD) version with 436 hp and 700 Nm of torque.
The 52.4 kWh lithium-ion battery pack allows for a range of up to 314 km, while the 88.5 kWh version offers a range of up to 523 km on a full charge.
Jaecoo Malaysia has commenced the delivery process for 500 units of the Omoda C9 SUV to customers nationwide.
According to Emily Lek, the Vice President of Jaecoo Malaysia, “It is extremely gratifying to see the market’s positive reception for the C9.
“It affirms our concerted effort and commitment to introduce best-in-class vehicles that suit the needs and preferences of drivers here.
“We’re ready to take our customers on the next phase of their ownership journey with JAECOO with the support of our extensive network of exceptional dealers.”
Officially launched in December, the Omoda C9 is a premium off-road coupe SUV offered in two main variants: the 2WD version, priced at RM168,800, and the AWD version, priced at RM188,800.
The Omoda C9 is powered by a 2.0-liter turbo engine that produces 261 PS and 400 Nm, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission.
Similar to the Jaecoo J7 model, the Omoda C9 is also assembled at the Jaecoo manufacturing facility located in Shah Alam.
Volvo Car Malaysia wrapped up the year 2024 with a record sales figure of 1,953 vehicles. Of this total, 30 percent were battery electric vehicle (BEV) models, representing an 18 percent increase compared to 2023.
Overall, BEV and plug-in hybrid (PHEV) models accounted for 83 percent of total sales for the year 2024, up from 71 percent the previous year.
This achievement aligns with the brand’s ambition to sell between 90 to 100 percent electric vehicles by 2030.
Less than 20 percent of Volvo Car Malaysia’s total sales were comprised of mild hybrid electric vehicles (MHEV), down from one-third recorded in 2023.
Globally, Volvo Cars reported total sales of 763,389 vehicles, marking an 8 percent increase.
There was a growth in sales within the electric vehicle segment, with 175,194 BEVs and 177,593 PHEV models sold, representing increases of 54 percent and 16 percent, respectively.
In total, 46 percent of Volvo’s global sales were electric vehicles, while BEV sales alone accounted for 23 percent, up from 16 percent in 2023.
For 2025, Volvo Car Malaysia plans to launch another BEV model, the Volvo EX90, a luxurious seven-seater SUV.
Honda Malaysia has announced an impressive achievement, with the sixth-generation Honda CR-V SUV recording sales exceeding 11,300 units throughout 2024.
This achievement solidifies the CR-V’s status as the number one model in the mid-size SUV segment, capturing approximately 36 percent of the market share.
According to Hironobu Yoshimura, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Honda Malaysia, “Since its launch in December 2023, the Honda CR-V has experienced strong demand, further reinforcing its dominant position in the market.”
He further stated that the CR-V is the third best-selling model throughout 2024.
Of the total CR-V sales, the 2.0L e:HEV RS hybrid variant accounted for 20 percent, leading with an 87 percent share in the mid-size hybrid SUV segment.
The petrol variants also performed well, with the E variant being the customers’ top choice, contributing to 40 percent of total CR-V sales.
For the Malaysian market, the Honda CR-V is available with the option of a 1.5-liter turbo engine producing 193 PS and 243 Nm, or a 2.0L e:HEV hybrid engine with 184 PS and 335 Nm.
The exterior design of the CR-V features LED headlights and taillights, a distinctive front grille, and specific functions for the top variant, such as Active Cornering Lights and an Active Shutter Grille.
In addition to a spacious and comfortable cabin, the CR-V also offers a cargo space of 589 liters, which can expand to 1,072 liters when the second-row seats are folded flat.
Notably, it includes comprehensive safety features such as Honda CONNECT, Honda SENSING, and additional features for the e:HEV variant like Adaptive Driving Beam and a 360-degree camera system.
The year 2024 saw Perodua not only achieving the highest vehicle registration record for the local market but also successfully ranking second in the ASEAN passenger vehicle sales chart for the same year.
This announcement was shared directly by Perodua with media practitioners during the ‘Up-Close & Casual With Perodua’ event yesterday.
According to the ASEAN passenger vehicle sales data for 2024, Perodua recorded sales of 358,000 units, surpassing Honda, which is now in third place with 303,000 units.
For the record, in 2023, Perodua ranked third with total vehicle sales of 330,000 units, behind Honda’s 351,000 units and Toyota, which was first with 752,000 units.
Since its establishment, Perodua has recorded a total of 5.1 million vehicles on the road.
Among these, the Myvi remains the king of the road, with 1.487 million units, followed by the Perodua Axia (746,000 units), Perodua Kancil (709,000 units), and Perodua Alza (503,000 units).
Additionally, 2024 also saw Perodua exceeding its original production capacity of 320,000 units, with a total of 368,100 vehicles produced that year.
According to Dato’ Sri Zainal Abidin Ahmad, President and CEO of Perodua, “The record of 368,100 units was achieved by minimizing downtime according to the maintenance schedule, through dynamic coordination and planning with suppliers and distributors, and swiftly addressing challenges.”
For 2025, Perodua has allocated RM1.6 billion for model expenditure, much of which will be dedicated to factory improvements, stamping capacity upgrades, as well as new model development and tooling.
Meanwhile, Perodua anticipates a 4.9 percent decrease in production for 2025, forecasting a total of 350,000 units, along with a projected 3.7 percent reduction in registrations to 345,000 units.
“However, demand for our vehicles remains strong, with current back orders reaching 68,000 units, of which 28,000 orders have commitment letters issued without stock,” he further explained.
In terms of after-sales service, Dato’ Sri Zainal stated that the company aims to increase vehicle maintenance numbers this year to 3.7 million, representing a rise of 7.6 percent.
Perodua will also continue to support the nation’s automotive ecosystem with an estimated RM10.8 billion in local component purchases from suppliers in the country.
“2025 will be an exciting year for Perodua as we prepare the company and our strategic partners for any forthcoming changes. We believe that once these changes are complete, we will be able to strengthen our position both in this country and in the region,” he said.
Today marked the groundbreaking ceremony for the construction of the first phase of Proton’s electric vehicle (EV) assembly plant, which is located in the high-tech facility in Tanjung Malim.
With an investment of RM82 million, the first phase of this EV assembly plant is expected to be completed by the end of 2025, with an initial production capacity of approximately 20,000 units per year.
The plant will serve as the assembly location for various types of new energy vehicles (NEVs) for both the domestic and export markets, based on the Global Modular Architecture (GMA) platform, starting with the Proton e.MAS7 model.
Various smart manufacturing technologies will be employed to ensure the plant is ready for NEV production, including robotics, cloud-based factory management, the Internet of Things (IoT), and technologies related to Industry 4.0.
At the same time, Proton’s new plant is expected to create over 200 new job opportunities for the local community.
Proton has also planned for a second phase of production as preparation for the increasing demand for EVs both domestically and internationally, with production capacity set to rise to 45,000 units per year.
According to Dr. Li Chunrong, CEO of Proton, “PROTON is transitioning to become an OEM that offers both Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) and EV models as we established PRO-NET to sell smart vehicles before launching the Proton e.MAS 7.
“With the experience we have gained over the past few years in all aspects of these vehicles and customer needs, today we take the next step in realizing our dream of producing and developing EV models in Malaysia.
“The vehicles manufactured at this new plant will meet the needs of customers in the local and export markets and will help drive the growth of the EV market.
“Once completed, production at this new facility will focus on the Proton e.MAS 7 and future NEV offerings as PROTON expands its model range. Ultimately, we hope our success will create a modern and capable automotive ecosystem to encourage more OEMs to consider Malaysia and AHTV as a regional base for EVs,” he further stated.
Malaysia’s Leading Automotive News | ENGEAR ENGLISH
