Category Archives: EV

EV, NEWS

Mercedes-Benz EQE gains three new variants, from RM380k

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MERCEDES-BENZ Malaysia (MBM) has expanded its EQE lineup with the launch of three new variants, namely the EQE 350+ Electric Art Line, EQE 350+ SUV Electric Art Line, and EQE 350+ SUV AMG Line.

Additionally, the EQE 350+ AMG Line, which was first launched here back in December 2022, has been given fresh updates.

EQE 350+ Electric Art Line & AMG Line

Coming in as the entry-level offering, the EQE 350+ Electric Art Line features the Electric Art Line exterior package, 19-inch twin-spoke alloy wheels, and Digital Light with Adaptive Highbeam Assist Plus.

The interior is complemented by Artico man-made leather upholstery in black and sapce grey, along with the Advanced Sound System, laser-cut backlit trim with Mercedes-Benz pattern on the dashboard, active ambient lighting, Keyless-Go, and Parking Package with 360° camera.

Similar to the EQE 350+ AMG Line, it is equipped with a single electric motor that drives the rear wheels, producing 292 hp and 565 Nm of torque. It can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 6.4 seconds, with a maximum speed of 210 km/h.

The battery capacity is also identical at 90.56 kWh, providing a range of 665 to 682 km based on WLTP cycle. The model comes with a 22 kW AC charger, requiring 4 hours and 45 minutes for a full charge, and DC fast charging up to 170 kW that takes only 32 minutes to charge from 10% to 80%.

Meanwhile, the EQE 350+ AMG Line now gets a panoramic sunroof, radiator grille with Mercedes-Benz pattern, rear axle steering with up to 10° steering angle adjustment, Airmatic air suspension, an electric charging socket flap, and 22 kW AC onboard charging.

Pricing starts at RM379,888 for the Electric Art Line variant and RM429,888 for the AMG Line.

EQE 350+ SUV Electric Art Line & AMG Line

Launched five months after the EQE 500 SUV, both variants of the EQE 350+ SUV are powered by a single electric motor positioned at the rear axle, delivering 292 hp and 565 Nm of torque.

Performance-wise, it can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 6.7 seconds and reach a maximum speed of 210 km/h. That’s just 0.3 seconds slower than its sedan stablemate.

With a battery capacity of 90.56 kWh, the EQE 350+ SUV offers a range of 485 to 596 km based on the WLTP cycle. Its energy consumption ranges from about 21.6 to 17.5 kWh per 100 km.

The charging time is similar to the sedan version, taking 4 hours and 45 minutes for a full charge using a 22 kW AC charger and 32 minutes for 10-80% charge using a 170 kW DC fast charger.

The differences between the two variants lie in their features. The Electric Art Line variant boasts the Electric Art package for the exterior and interior, 20-inch five-spoke alloy wheels, Neotex/Artico leather upholstery, laser-cut backlit trim with Mercedes-Benz pattern, comfort suspension, Advanced Sound System.

It is also fitted with Digital Light, Adaptive High Beam Assist Plus, Driving Assistance Package Plus, Parking Package with 360-degree camera and AR navigation.

On the other hand, the AMG Line variant shares the same features as the EQE 500 SUV, including a panoramic sunroof, Airmatic air suspension system, rear-axle steering control, Burmester 3D audio system, and sports seats. New to the EQE 350+ SUV AMG Line is the 20-inch AMG five-twin-spoke light-alloy wheels.

Pricing starts at RM398,888 for the Electric Art Line variant and RM448,888 for the AMG Line.

EV, NEWS

Nio launches Onvo sub-brand in China to take on Tesla

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SHANGHAI-BASED electric vehicle manufacturer Nio, recently launched a new smart EV sub-brand known as Onvo.

According to the automaker, Onvo is short for “On Voyage”, and its first product to enter the market will be the L60, an electric SUV designed compete with the Tesla Model Y.

The L60 is available for pre-order in China with prices starting at RMB219,900 (RM142,670), with deliveries expected to commence in the third quarter of this year.

In comparison, the Model Y in Malaysia starts from RM191,000 for the Rear-Wheel Drive variant and goes up to RM280,000 for the Performance variant.

According to Onvo, the L60 is built using a 900V high-voltage architecture, claimed to be more energy efficient, boasting CLTC energy efficiency of 92.3% and the world’s lowest drag coefficient of 0.229 for a production SUV.

As a result, the company claims that the electric SUV can achieve energy consumption as low as 12.1 kW.h per 100 km.

In its Standard Range configuration, the L60 can travel up to 555 km on a single charge, while the Long Range configuration offers a range of up to 730 km. With the Ultra Long Range battery, it can provide a driving range of over 1,000 km.

Furthermore, the L60 features battery swapping technology with Nio, allowing drivers to replace their EV batteries in just three minutes at over 1,000 battery swapping stations across China.

Additionally, customers have the option to purchase the L60 without a battery. It is sold at a lower price of RMB170,000 (RM110,558), but they are are required to pay a monthly subscription for the battery under the Battery as a Service (BaaS) program.

After the initial launch in China, Onvo reportedly plans to market the L60 globally, including in Europe, towards the end of this year.

EV, NEWS

Kia EV3 set to make global debut on May 23

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KIA has released teaser images of their next electric vehicle (EV), the EV3. It will be fully unveiled on May 23 as a compact electric SUV slotted below the EV5.

For your information, the EV3 was first previewed by the Concept EV3 in October last year. Kia’s teaser images indicate that it will retain most of its exterior design cues for production.

Kia Concept EV3

Similar to the EV9, Kia applies the ‘Opposites United’ philosophy to the design of the EV3, as evident from the striking boxy fenders and tailgate.

The EV3 also carries the brand’s signature Star Map lighting at the front and rear, along with black-painted C pillars to create the floating roof effect.

Interior images have not been revealed yet; however, we anticipate a design and layout not significantly different from Kia’s existing EV models.

Likewise, technical details of the EV3 are unknown for now, but according to reports, it is built on the E-GMP platform with a 400V architecture, as opposed to the 800V system in the EV6 and EV9.

Kia says the EV3 will go on sale later this year following its global world premiere.

EV, NEWS

Tesla Model 3 Performance available for order in Malaysia – from RM242k

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The new Tesla Model 3 Performance, the most powerful variant in the Model 3 lineup, has been officially introduced with a selling price of RM242,000 in Malaysia.

Powering the Model 3 Performance is Tesla’s latest generation performance drive unit (Performance 4DU) consisting of two electric motors, one on each axle.

Based on the specifications available on the Tesla Malaysia website, the electric sedan boasts a total system output of 460 hp that enables it to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.1 seconds, with a maximum speed of 262 km/h.

For comparison, the Model 3 Long Range AWD takes 4.4 seconds to reach the same speed and can accelerate up to 201 km/h.

In terms of range, the Model 3 Performance is said to be capable of covering a distance of up to 528 km based on WLTP cycle, which is 101 km shorter than what the Long Range AWD offers.

Additionally, the high-performance variant also features a new adaptive damping system paired with multi-sectioned stabiliser bar, ultra-high strength steel springs, and stiffer suspension top mounts.

The braking system has been upgraded through track-ready pads, which offer more immediate deceleration and higher thermal limits and endurance.

In terms of appearance, this variant can be distinguished by new front and rear bumper designs, a rear diffuser, and a carbon fibre spoiler.

The Malaysian market model comes with 20-inch Warp wheels and is available in five colours: Pearl White Multi-Coat, Solid Black (RM5,000), Deep Blue Metallic (RM5,000), Stealth Grey (RM7,500), and Ultra Red (RM11,000).

Inside, you’ll find sport seats with enhanced bolstering and deeper position, carbon fibre trims on the dashboard, and a Track Mode V3 that integrates motor controls, suspension controls, powertrain cooling, and Vehicle Dynamics Controller (VDC) under a single, unified system.

As for the cabin space, black upholstery comes as standard, but customers can also opt for black and white upholstery at an additional cost of RM5,000.

According to Tesla Malaysia, the delivery of the Model 3 Performance is expected to commence in the second quarter of this year.

EV

smart #1 secures top 3 spot in Malaysia’s premium EV SUV market

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PRO-NET announced that the smart #1 has been ranked third in the EV SUV market category for cars priced above RM180,000, making it one of the most preferred premium EVs in Malaysia.

According to Pro-Net, the Malaysian EV market has witnessed exponential growth in recent years, with EV sales volume surging from 3,079 units in 2022 to 11,624 units in 2023, accompanied by a significant increase in market share from 0.43% to 1.45%.

Zhang Qiang, Chief Executive Officer of smart Malaysia said the milestone reflects the growing demand for urban mobility solutions in the region and reaffirms smart’s goal to position itself as a leader in the premium EV segment.

“With only one model sold, as opposed to other key players in the industry, we have achieved this great success. This exemplifies the trust our customers have in our product and services, and I would like to express my gratitude to our customers,’’ he added.

Designed by Mercedes-Benz and built on Geely’s Sustainable Electric Architecture (SEA), the smart #1 is available in three variants: Pro (RM189,000), Premium (RM219,000), and Brabus (RM249,000).

The Pro and Premium variants are equipped with a rear-mounted electric motor producing 272 PS and 343 Nm, enabling it to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 6.7 seconds.

The more superior smart #1 Brabus features twin electric motors with an output of 428 PS and 543 Nm. With higher power and AWD, it only takes 3.9 seconds to reach a speed of 100 km/h.

The Pro variant comes with a 49 kWh battery providing a driving range of up to 315 km. On the other hand, the Premium and Brabus variants each have a 66 kWh battery, offering different driving ranges of 440 km for the former and 400 km for the latter.

EV

Maserati GranCabrio Folgore is a stylish EV droptop with 818hp and 447km range

The newly launched electric-powered GranCabrio Folgore by Maserati serves as an alternative and complement to the existing GranTurismo Folgore range.

Essentially, the GranCabrio Folgore model is a convertible with a foldable roof. However, overall, it shares many components with the GranTurismo Folgore model, including the electric powertrain unit.

It features a configuration of three radial-flux electric motors, consisting of two units at the rear axle and one unit at the front axle, each capable of producing a peak power of 300 kW (402 hp).

Due to battery technology limitations, Maserati claims that this convertible model can achieve a peak power of up to 818 hp/1,350 Nm in MaxBoost mode or up to 751 hp in standard driving mode.

The GranCabrio can accelerate from 0-100 km/h in just 2.8 seconds before reaching a top speed of 290 km/h. The GranCabrio Folgore is equipped with a T-shaped lithium-ion battery pack positioned on the floor, with a capacity of 92.5 kWh (83 kWh limit).

For a full charge, this model can travel between 419 km and 447 km, aided by a regenerative braking system capable of generating power up to 400 kW. The fast DC 270 kW charging allows you to add 100 km of range in five minutes or charge from 20 to 80 percent in 18 minutes.

As standard, the GranCabrio Folgore offers up to four driving modes: GT default mode, Sport mode, extreme driving mode Corsa, and high-efficiency mode Max Range.

For those who enjoy the wind in their hair, the GranCabrio Folgore’s roof can be folded in 14 seconds at speeds of up to 50 km/h. Reflecting its nature as a luxury car, owners can choose from up to five attractive colors: Nero, Blue Marine, Titan Grey, Greige, and Granata.

The GranCabrio Folgore’s cabin features characteristics such as a 12.2-inch digital cluster screen, a 12.3-inch infotainment screen, and an 8.8-inch third screen for HVAC control.

Additionally, it includes a steering wheel with heating function, brushed aluminum paddle shifters, and other standard features such as neck warmers, Sonus Faber audio system, and a digital clock that can be switched to display a compass, G-force meter, and chronograph. Buyers can also opt for sustainable material packages such as Econyl, made from recycled carpets and fishing nets.

EV, NEWS

BYD YangWang U9 electric supercar launched in China

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THE competition in the electric supercar segment is about to heat up with the arrival of a new competitor from BYD’s luxury arm YangWang.

Simply called U9, the electric supercar is priced 1.68 million RMB (RM1.12 million) in its home market, with delivery set to commence this summer. The U9 made its first appearance in January last year, alongside the U8 SUV.

Like the SUV, the U9 is built on the e4 Platform featuring four electric motors, one powering each wheel. The setup gives the U9 a mind-boggling total output of 1,300 hp and 1,680 Nm.

It goes without saying that this is the fastest car ever produced by BYD so far. 0-100 km/h accelaration takes just 2.36 seconds, while the maximum speed is rated at 309.19 km/h.

Crazy numbers but the drawback is that driving range but the performance means some range has to be sacrificed. BYD claims a range of just 450 km based on the lenient CLTC cycle.

The U9’s 80 kWh LFP battery supports dual-plug charging at capacities of up to 500 kW, which takes 10 minutes to refill the battery from 10% to 80%. It can also be charged via a 7 kW AC charger, which takes about seven hours to complete a 10-80% charge.

The U9 has 12 sets of active and passive aerodynamic packages to reduce drag coefficient and enhance heat dissipation efficiency. It is also equipped with the iSus-X Intelligent body control system, which can raise the suspension by up to 75 mm at a speed of 500 mm per second.

Needless to say, the unique suspension system makes the U9 more agile in corners, but as you may have seen before, it also allows the supercar to “dance” and “jump”. Not only that, with one motor on each wheel, this car can also perform a tank turn.

Inside, the U9 uses the DiLink150 platform powered by a 5G chip. Specifically designed for track driving, it boasts an intelligent racing assistantance, providing extensive track driving services with detailed information on nearly 30 racetracks across China.

Other creature comforts include a 14-way adjustment for the driver and passenger seats, Dynaudio Evidence high-end audio system, and ambient lighting system with 127 colour options, to name a few.

EV, NEWS

BMW iX now available in xDrive50 Sport and M60 variants, from RM466k

BMW Malaysia has announced updates to the BMW iX range for the model year 2024.

Starting now, the fully electric SUV will be offered in only two variants, namely the xDrive50 Sport and M60. This means that the xDrive40 and xDrive40 Sport variants have been discontinued.

With this update, the iX xDrive50 Sport follows in the footstep of the M60 by gaining a 22 kW AC charging, which is capable of reducing the charging time to under 5 hours 30 minutes for a complete 0 to 100% charge.

Additionally, both variants continue to offer fast charging capabilities of up to 195 kW, allowing for 0-80% charging in just 35 minutes.

In addition to faster charging, the xDrive50 Sport variant also gets the dual-axle air suspension system that absorbs road imperfections with precision for a more refined driving experience. The BMW Iconic Sounds Electric is also included as a standard feature.

There are no changes in terms of performance and driving range. The iX xDrive50 Sport, with its 523 hp/765 Nm twin-motor setup, can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.6 seconds. The WLTP cycle-based driving range is 630 km.

Meanwhile, the iX M60 also features twin electric motors but with a significantly higher output of 619 hp/1,015 Nm (1,100 Nm with Launch Control). It takes 3.8 seconds to reach 100 km/h and can cover a distance of up to 561 km on a full charge.

The iX’s cabin now features the Live Cockpit Professional powered by BMW Operating System 8.5, a 12.3-inch instrument cluster, a 14.9-inch central screen, multifunction seats, wireless charging, and four-zone automatic air conditioning.

However, the previously available Bower & Wilkins Diamond audio system with 30 speakers, which was present in the M60, seems to have been replaced with the Harman Kardon audio system featuring 18 speakers.

Another standard feature included in this update is the Comfort Access, now featuring BMW Digital Key Plus. This digital key can be shared with up to five compatible devices allowing for convenience to the ownership experience.

For colour options, the iX is available in Alpine White, Mineral White Metallic, Black Sapphire Metallic, Sophisto Grey Metallic with Brilliant Effect, Phytonic Blue Metallic, Oxide Grey Metallic, and Blue Ridge Mountain Metallic.

For an additional RM6,200, customers can opt for the Aventurine Red Metallic and Individual Storm Bay Metallic shades.

For the interior, BMW Malaysia offers the Interior Design Atelier upholstery in Mocha or Black as standard. Two additional colours, Amido and Castanea, are available for an additional RM17,300.

The starting price is RM465,800 for the xDrive50 Sport variant and RM579,800 for the M60. A five-year extended warranty and service package are available for RM33,200.

EV

Tesla opens new Supercharging station in Pavilion Bukit Jalil

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Tesla has announced the opening of their newest Supercharging station at Pavilion Bukit Jalil. Since the brand’s presence in July 2023, they have been committed to expanding the charging network for a better experience for their owners in Malaysia.

The new Supercharging station is equipped with 6 Superchargers and 2 Destination Chargers. This brings the total to 30 Superchargers and 25 Destination Chargers nationwide.

With charging speeds of up to 250kW, a Tesla Model 3 can be recharged to provide a range of 282km in just 15 minutes.

Additionally, Tesla owners can now monitor available chargers, charging status, payments, and real-time technical assistance, providing significant convenience, especially for first-time EV owners.

The Tesla Supercharging station at Pavilion Bukit Jalil is located in parking B1, Pavilion Bukit Jalil 2, Persiaran Jalil 8, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur. It is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

The charging rate is RM1.25/kWh, while the idle fee is up to RM4/minute when the station is fully utilized.

EV, NEWS

Tesla sold a total of one car in South Korea in January

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In Malaysia, Tesla is much lauded by electric vehicle (EV) users and enthusiasts alike, but in South Korea, it’s an entirely different story.

According to a report by Free Malaysia Today, the Texas-based EV manufacturer only managed to sell one car, a Model Y, in January due to concerns about safety, pricing, and charging infrastructure.

Data from the Seoul-based research firm Carisyou and the Korea Ministry of Trade indicates that this marked Tesla’s worst sales performance since July 2022, when it sold no vehicles at all.

Carisyou also reported that the number of new EV registrations in the country declined by 80% in January 2023 compared to December 2022.

It is understood that the slow reception for EVs in South Korea is due to higher interest rates and inflation, which have forced consumers to restrain their spending.

Furthermore, concerns about battery fires and a shortage of fast chargers have also contributed to the decline in EV demand there.

Lee Hang-Koo, head of the Jeonbuk Institute of Automotive Convergence Technology said most Koreans who wanted a Tesla car have already bought one.

In fact, some Koreans dislike Tesla and are concerned about the quality of production after learning that some of them are made in China.

Lee also mentioned that many people avoided buying vehicles in January because they were waiting for the government’s announcement of subsidies.

EV

BMW iX now available for rental from RM550/day

SIME Darby Auto Bavaria (SDAB) has partnered with Sime Darby Rent-A-Car (SDRAC) – Hertz Malaysia to introduce electric vehicle (EV) rental services.

In conjunction with this partnership and the upcoming Chinese New Year, SDAB and SDRAC have come up with an exclusive rental offer designed to offer a distinctive driving experience with the BMW iX.

The fully electric SUV is now available with introductory rental prices starting at RM550 per day and RM5,500 per month.

Vi Thim Juan, the CEO of Auto Bavaria, stated, ““Auto Bavaria is fully committed to pioneering the utilisation of EVs in Malaysia. This time around, we are leveraging the opportunity to give Malaysians a chance to try our BMW iX for unmatched style and uniqueness that is aligned with the latest trends in EV technology.”

Harun Mohd Joned, the CEO of SDRAC, added, “Our objective is to deliver optimal mobility solutions to our business partner, SDAB, and provide Hertz Malaysia rental customers with a truly modern and luxurious electrified experience.”

Customers interested in experiencing the BMW iX can make reservations and find more details at www.simedarbycarrental.com or visit the participating Hertz Malaysia outlets in Klang Valley, Penang or Johor Bahru.

EV, NEWS

Jeep Wagoneer S – brand’s first EV SUV boasts 4 screens, McIntosh sound system

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JEEP has unveiled some initial details and teaser photos of the Wagoneer S, its first global all-electric SUV, which is expected to be launched into the market in the fall of this year.

First up, the Wagoneer S is a mid-size SUV said to have a body size almost identical to the Grand Cherokee.

It is built on Stellantis’ STLA-Large platform and reportedly features a twin-motor setup that’s capable of generating 600 hp, enabling it to accelerate from 0 to 96 km/h in just 3.5 seconds.

The battery capacity is unknown at the time of writing, but there are rumors that suggest it could offer a maximum driving range of up to 800 km.

Looking at the interior photos, the Wagoneer S appears to have no less than four screens, including a digital instrument cluster, an infotainment display, a display for the front passenger, and another screen specifically for the climate control system.

Not only that, the Wagoneer S will also feature a premium MacIntosh audio system with 19 speakers, a colour-selectable ambient lighting system and a standard dual-pane panoramic sunroof.

Also visible is the EV’s centre console, which houses the Start/Stop button, a rotary gear selector, and a toggle-style switch that enables drivers to select Sand, Snow, Eco, Auto, and Sport driving modes.

EV, NEWS

GWM Ora 07 to launch in Malaysia in Q1 2024

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ON January 18, Great Wall Motor (GWM) Malaysia uploaded a teaser image of the Ora 07, indicating the imminent arrival of the model.

Now, the company has officially confirmed that the Ora 07 will be launched in Malaysia in the first quarter of this year.

Not only that, initial specifications of the fully electric fastback sedan have also been revealed. It will be offered in two configurations: a single electric motor offering a range of 640 km and a dual electric motor with a range of 550 km.

Notably, the driving range figures for both configurations mirror that of the Thai-spec Ora 07, which was launched in the country back in December.

There, the Long Range variant features a single electric motor on the front axle making 204 PS/340 Nm, allowing it to accelerate up to 170 km/h. A 83.5 kWh battery provides a range of up to 640 km.

The second variant, called Performance, is equipped with a pair of electric motors producing a total power of 408 PS/680 Nm. It has the same battery but a shorter driving range of 550 km.

Additionally, the Ora 07 for the Malaysian market will also come with an adaptive electric spoiler and a frameless door design.

EV, NEWS

Malaysia Airlines enhances top-tier passenger experience with BMW i7

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MALAYSIA Airlines, in collaboration with BMW Group Malaysia through their dealer partner, Ingress Auto Sdn. Bhd., will be introducing an exclusive private terminal transfer service for its passengers to travel in premium comfort between the Main Terminal Building and the Satellite Building of KLIA Terminal 1.

Beginning 1 February 2024, Enrich Platinum, Business Suite, and Business Class passengers flying with Malaysia Airlines will be chauffeured in style with the all-electric BMW i7.

The 24-hour service offers a sustainable and premium travel option exclusively for Malaysia Airlines’ passengers, in addition to the Premium Bus transfer currently provided by the airport operator following the temporary suspension of the aerotrain service.

During this initial phase, a fleet of BMW i7 vehicles will be deployed to serve departing passengers with the pick-up point located at Gate G1 of the Main Terminal Building. The airline will also be deploying additional units to serve arriving passengers in the near future, following the completion of the arrival lounge at the airport’s Satellite Building.

Ahmad Luqman Mohd Azmi, Chief Executive Officer of Airlines from Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG), said “With this exclusive service, we aim to enhance the travel experience for our top-tier customers, ensuring that they can enjoy premium comfort as part of their end-to-end journey with us.

“As the only carrier offering this temporary personalised service to our passengers in light of the aerotrain’s temporary suspension at KLIA Terminal 1, it underscores our dedication to elevating our standards of service to ensure a premium travel experience, while also reinforcing our commitment to embedding sustainable practices with the selection of the all-electric BMW i7 series.

We look forward to extending this service to our arriving passengers as part of our continuous efforts to ensure a fuss-free and enjoyable experience driven by our inimitable Malaysian Hospitality,” he added.

EV

EV owners in Norway having their own ways to endure winters

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THE cold weather that has struck Chicago and several places in the United States has had some impact on the residents, especially Tesla EV owners.

Several media outlets have reported that a large number of Tesla electric cars were stranded at several fast DC charging stations. Some owners have complained that their cars are difficult to charge, and the charging time is much longer than usual. So, are electric cars not suitable for use in cold weather?

The answer may lie with the people of Norway, one of the countries with the highest EV adoption rates in the world. Norway is also one of the coldest countries, yet incidents involving electric car owners there are rare.

According to The New York Times, EV drivers in Norway have been accustomed to the practice of preheating their cars before starting their journey in freezing weather.

Furthermore, according to Lars Godbolt, an advisor to the Norwegian Electric Vehicle Association, the improved charging infrastructure in recent years has also contributed to shorter waiting times.

However, it is important to note that the majority of residents in Norway live in single-family homes, where 90 percent of EV owners have charging facilities at their own homes.

Another factor to consider is that residents of Norway typically spend only 30 minutes on average commuting from home to work, compared to an hour or more for residents of the United States.

This suggests that the suitability of electric cars in cold weather is not solely determined by the technology itself, but also by factors such as infrastructure and daily commuting patterns.

EV

VinFast failed to achieve 2023 sales target

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Throughout 2023, Vinfast has successfully sold nearly 35,000 units of electric vehicles (EV). A new record was also set in the fourth quarter (Q4) of 2023, where Vinfast managed to sell a total of 13,512 units.

However, despite the impressive figure of 34,855 units compared to previous achievements, the annual sales volume still falls short of the set target of 40,000 units.

The Vietnamese manufacturer claims that this figure is due to the slow acceptance rate of EVs in some regions, as well as intense competition.

A Reuters report mentioned that the majority of Vinfast’s sales come from the Vietnamese market, where 60 percent of distribution in the second and third quarters was contributed by the Green SM taxi operator and the vehicle leasing company owned by VinFast’s CEO.

According to Vinfast’s Deputy CEO of Sales and Marketing, Tran Mai Hoa, “We have seen a significant increase in vehicle distribution in the fourth quarter of 2023 compared to the previous quarter. However, the slow adoption rate of EVs in some regions, as well as intense competition, have led to a smaller distribution volume than we expected.”

VinFast is now preparing to establish battery production and assembly facilities in India, along with exploring new markets in the Middle East, Latin America, and Asia, including Indonesia.

EV

Perodua’s affordable EV to enter mass production late 2025

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TENGKU Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz has announced on social media that Perodua is scheduled to begin mass producing its first electric vehicle (EV) at the end of 2025.

According to the Minister of Investment, Trade, and Industry, this is in line with Perodua’s appointment to lead the production of affordable EVs under the New Industrial Master Plan 2030 (NIMP 2030).

Zafrul went on to say that Perodua has collaborated with an ‘international automotive company’ to develop an EV prototype.

“Thank you to Perodua for assisting Malaysia in advancing electric vehicle technology and strengthening sustainable mobility in Malaysia,” he said.

On November 29, Perodua announced it’s targeting electric and hybrid vehicles to contribute up to 20% of total new car sales by 2030.

Perodua President and Chief Executive Officer, Datuk Seri Zainal Abidin Ahmad said that the sales figure could be achieved “if all industry players can work together.”

“We are collaborating with the government and other partners. We have also been appointed in the new industrial plan to lead the development of EVs in Malaysia.

“We need to produce new products. We have not finalized the production timeline, but the government’s target – 20 percent by 2025 or 2030 – will become a reality if all parties cooperate,” he said.

EV

Audi SQ8 e-tron and SQ8 Sportback e-tron unveiled in Malaysia, first EV with three motor setup

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PHS Automotive Malaysia (PHSAM) today launched two new electric (EV) models for the Malaysian market, namely the Audi SQ8 e-tron and SQ8 Sportback e-tron. Both models are distinguished by their body shapes, with the Sportback being the more sporty coupe version.

The Audi SQ8 e-tron is offered at a starting price of RM519,990, while the SQ8 Sportback e-tron is priced at RM529,990.

Three electric motors

The Audi SQ8 e-tron becomes the first officially introduced EV model in Malaysia with a three-electric motor setup – one at the front axle and two at the rear. These three electric motors are asynchronous, operating independently.

The front motor generates 166hp, while each of the rear motors produces 131hp. The total output for the SQ8 e-tron reaches 496hp and 973Nm of torque.

This allows the heavy SUV EV to accelerate to 100km/h in just 4.5 seconds, with a maximum speed of 210km/h.

The two independent rear electric motors are used to precisely distribute power based on driving conditions such as uneven roads or corners.

Charging

The Audi SQ8 e-tron and SQ8 Sportback e-tron can be charged up to 170kW for DC, enabling the battery to reach from 10 to 80 percent in just 31 minutes. With a full charge, this SUV can be driven for up to 471km.

For AC charging, it uses a 22kW capacity, requiring nine to 11 and a half hours depending on various factors.

Luxurious and sporty aesthetics

Both models come in an S package, indicating a sportier design. The widened bumper design is now more expressive, while the wheel arch panels with optimized air flow present a more muscular image.

The Singleframe grille, which is an Audi signature (with projector lights), is further emphasized by the Digital Matrix LED headlights. Interestingly, these lights have 1.3 million micro mirrors that can be adjusted up to 5,000 times per second to provide optimal illumination without dazzling other drivers.

Aerodynamics are crucial for EVs, and the Audi SQ8 e-tron has a low drag coefficient (Cd) of between 0.24 and 0.27, helping to achieve longer driving distances.

Other features include red brake calipers, carbon fiber side mirror housings, black roof rails, and 22-inch Interferenz Audi Sport rims.

“With the introduction of the new SQ8 e-tron through the classic SUV design and the more sporty Sportback design, we are now offering a high-powered Q8 e-tron variant for those seeking a more exhilarating driving experience with Audi’s dynamic and efficient technology,” said PHSAM CEO, Denyu Bostandzhiev.

“The Q8 e-tron and e-tron GT model families were launched in Malaysia in June last year and have received positive feedback,” he added.

The SQ8 e-tron comes in seven color options – Magnet Gray, Ultra Blue, Chronos Gray, Mythos Black, Plasma Blue, Daytona Gray, and Glacier White.

Both models are covered by a 5-year warranty, a 3-year scheduled maintenance package, and 5-year roadside assistance.

EV

Afeela EV presented with closer to production specs

Sony and Honda at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2023 event last year have surprised the world with the debut of the new EV brand Afeela.

The collaboration, later named Sony Honda Mobility, has now unveiled the updated prototype of the Afeela electric sedan at the CES 2024 event in Las Vegas.

What you see here is the Afeela EV with specifications closer to the actual production model. Compared to the previous model, the sedan brings several changes, such as the use of traditional side mirrors, slimmer main headlight units, and a new bumper design.

The charging port door is now larger, while the rocker panel and rear bumper sections have also been updated. The cabin design is almost the same as the original prototype model, except for the larger center console structure, followed by a redesigned steering wheel.

Additionally, there are two wireless smart device charging slots and a camera module positioned above the full-width screen panel.

The Afeela EV will feature dual single electric motor setups, each delivering 241 hp, along with a 91.0 kWh lithium-ion battery pack.

The sedan supports fast DC charging up to 150 kW, and 11 kW AC charging. The air suspension system is standard with a multi-link setup at the rear, along with 21-inch rims (245/40 front tires, 275/35 rear tires).

It is noted that reservations for this sedan will open in 2025 before it goes on sale in 2026. However, before that, Afeela will allow the sedan to be driven for the first time through the Gran Turismo 7 racing simulation game this year.

EV

TOGG T10F – Turkish first electric sedan with up to 435PS

Perhaps not many are aware, but behind the flood of electric vehicle (EV) brands from China, the world is now also welcoming the arrival of a new EV brand from Turkiye, namely Togg.

Togg, or its full name Türkiye’nin Otomobili Girişim Grubu (the Turkish Automobile Joint Venture Group), recently unveiled the T10F electric sedan at CES 2024, which is set to be marketed in Europe next year.

It is a fastback sedan in the C segment, where Togg describes this model as a connected smart device, not just a car. Based on a brief reference on the official website, this Togg T10F can be equipped with a single electric motor or dual electric motors.

The rear-wheel-drive (RWD) version is capable of accelerating from 0-100 km/h in 7.2 seconds, thanks to the powerful 218 PS electric motor and 350 Nm of torque.

The all-wheel-drive (AWD) version is even faster, going from 0-100 km/h in 4.6 seconds, with two more powerful electric motors (435 PS/700 Nm).

For full charging, the battery pack, whose capacity is not disclosed, can allow a range of 530 km (AWD) or up to 600 km (RWD version). The T10F supports rapid DC charging up to 180 kW, and charging from 20 to 80 percent can be completed in 28 minutes.

Togg also revealed the interior layout of this electric sedan, featuring a 12.3-inch cluster screen, a 29-inch infotainment screen, and a third 8-inch screen for HVAC control. Other features include a 500-liter cargo space, a heated steering wheel, and wireless smart device charging.