Perodua is currently preparing to launch its first electric vehicle (EV) in December this year.
This was confirmed by Sime Darby Group Chief Executive Officer, Datuk Jeffri Salim Davidson, as reported by the New Straits Times. According to him, the company will begin testing the EV in June.
He further added that the yet-to-be-named model received positive feedback when showcased at the Kuala Lumpur International Motor Show (KLIMS) 2024 in December last year.
“The EV space is where we see strong potential. The demand is growing, and we are positioning ourselves accordingly,” said Jeffri.
As previously reported, Perodua’s EV will feature a single front-wheel-drive electric motor with a power output of 68 PS and 220 Nm of torque, and a range of up to 450 km on a full charge.
Specifications regarding the battery are still unknown. However, Perodua President and Chief Executive Officer Datuk Seri Zainal Abidin Ahmad previously mentioned that it would be offered on a leasing basis to buyers.
He explained that this approach allows Perodua to sell the EV at a price of around RM80,000.
Tesla has announced the opening of a Tesla Supercharger station located at The Gardens Mall in Kuala Lumpur.
The station features four V4 Supercharger units and one destination charger, providing convenience for electric vehicle (EV) owners who need fast charging while shopping.
According to Tesla Malaysia, the V4 Supercharger can support up to 250 kW, allowing Model 3 and Model Y vehicles to add a range of up to 282 km in just 15 minutes.
The charging cost is only RM1.13 per kWh, and owners will incur an idle fee of RM4.00 per minute if the Supercharger station is full.
To date, Tesla has operated 14 Supercharger stations (64 superchargers) and 15 destination charging stations (70 chargers) across Malaysia.
The destination charging facilities are free for all Tesla vehicle owners until a date that will be announced later.
Mercedes-Benz Malaysia today officially launched the ultra-luxurious Mercedes-Maybach EQS 680 SUV, with a starting price of RM1,088,888, excluding customization costs.
Powering the Maybach EQS 680 SUV are dual electric motors, delivering 658 hp and 950 Nm of torque.
The vehicle features several driving modes, including Eco, Sport, Offroad, and Individual.
A special MAYBACH mode replaces the traditional Comfort mode, prioritizing maximum comfort for rear passengers.
A 118 kWh battery pack provides a driving range of 500-608 km on a full charge and supports 22 kW AC charging and DC fast charging up to 200 kW.
Standard equipment on this luxury SUV includes AIRMATIC adaptive suspension, rear-wheel steering, 21-inch Maybach alloy wheels, DIGITAL LIGHT headlights, and illuminated running boards.
The Mercedes-Maybach EQS 680 SUV boasts a first-class rear cabin experience, complete with MANUFAKTUR leather upholstery, a Nappa leather headliner, electric sunshades, a dedicated infotainment system, and adjustable seats with heating, massage, and memory functions.
The driver is provided with a steering wheel featuring galvanized paddle shifters, wood trim, and heating, the MBUX Hyperscreen multimedia system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, and an augmented reality head-up display.
Additional features include a Burmester 4D surround sound system, ambient lighting, under-console storage, a cabin air filter, and Maybach-specific trim throughout the cabin.
Safety features encompass 11 airbags, the Driving Assistance Package Plus, Distronic Plus, Active Lane Keeping Assist, Active Steering Assist, Pre-Safe, Active Parking Assist, and Remote Parking functionality.
Leading dealer group Harmony Auto has now opened the first Denza showroom at Menara Atlan, Kuala Lumpur.
Strategically located in Kuala Lumpur’s golden triangle, the showroom offers easy access for customers to closely examine the newly launched Denza D9 model.
With a floor plan of 5,500 square feet that can accommodate up to six vehicles, this showroom also features a clean, modern minimalist aesthetic with contemporary finishes.
The use of high-quality materials, luxurious lighting, and interactive digital displays is aimed at providing a premium experience for customers.
In addition to the showroom, there are facilities such as a coffee bar and a souvenir merchandise counter.
The Denza showroom is open daily from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM.
Harmony Auto is also planning to open a 3S Denza center in Skudai, Johor, in the near future.
At the launch of the Denza D9 in Kuala Lumpur, the automaker caught some of us (including yours truly) off guard when it used the Z9 GT to bring BYD’s Asia-Pacific Auto Sales Division General Manager Liu Xueliang onto the stage.
But the excitement didn’t stop there. The car demonstrated one of its standout features by executing a tank turn, which is essentially a 360-degree turn in the same spot. Picture a drift car performing a donut, albeit at a much slower speed and sans the billowing smoke.
Could this brief demonstration be an indication that the Z9 GT will soon enter the Malaysian market?
When questioned about this, BYD Malaysia’s Managing Director, Eagle Zhao, stated, “Soon, we will introduce more models in Malaysia, including the Z9 GT.”
The statement clearly illustrates Denza’s serious intentions regarding its presence in Malaysia. This is because unlike the D9, the Z9 GT currently lacks a right-hand drive (RHD) version.
By effectively saying that the model will be introduced here, Denza is indirectly signalling its readiness to invest significantly in entering RHD markets like Malaysia.
However, the question remains: can the Z9 GT entice Malaysian buyers, especially with the fierce competition from other, more established brands?
While it’s still too early to predict how the Z9 GT will do in our market, my first encounter with said car during a visit to Shenzhen, China, late last year showed that it has what it takes to shake things up the premium segment.
There was a test drive session but it was conducted in a rather small area with limited time. That said, I can conclude that the Z9 GT is indeed an exhilarating piece of machinery, not just in terms of performance but also on the design and feature fronts.
As you can see, the Z9 GT is a five-door wagon/shooting brake with a side profile that looks like it was cast in the same mould as the Porsche Panamera Sport Turismo.
Although its overall design may not match the German car’s grandeur, for those seeking a stylish shooting brake without breaking the bank, the Z9 GT seems like a fine candidate.
True to expectations, the car’s interior luxuriates in opulence and high-tech amenities that are sure to entice premium segment buyers.
It is important to note that the model is not solely developed for the Chinese market; it is also slated for European markets, where it will compete with legacy manufacturers like BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and Audi. So, the more kit, the better.
Notable features include Nappa leather upholstery, a panoramic glass roof, ambient lighting, two small fridges (one beneath the front armrest and another hidden between the rear seatbacks), and automatic doors that open and close by a mere press of a button—much like the i7.
The infotainment system is quite impressive as well. In addition to the digital instrument panel for the driver and a generously sized central touchscreen, the car also includes a display for the front passenger.
On top of these, it also comes equipped with a Devialet audio system (a French audio technology company) comprising a whopping 26 speakers and two wireless chargers on the centre console.
What about practicality, you ask? Golfers will surely appreciate the Z9 GT, as its boot space is ample enough to accommodate two golf bags when the rear seats are folded. Loading items into the boot is also made easy, thanks to the hatch that provides a wide opening.
Back to the aforementioned test drive, the media units provided were the PHEV variants featuring a 2.0-litre turbo four-cylinder petrol engine acting as a generator for three electric motors—one at the front axle, and two at the rear.
The combination yields a healthy total output of 870 PS, allowing it to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in a scant 3.6 seconds.
Also integral to this fifth-generation DM hybrid system is a 38.5 kWh LFP Blade battery, providing a pure electric driving range of 201 km (CLTC cycle) and a combined range of 1,100 km.
Needless to say, the Z9 GT moves like a rocket on wheels in a straight line but when facing tight turns, it does not exhibit the agility one might expect, despite equipped with rear-wheel steering and an air suspension system.
The primary factors contributing to this shortcoming are the size and weight of the Z9 GT. Measuring 5,180 mm in length, 1,990 mm in width, and with a wheelbase of 3,125 mm, this car is undeniably large. Weighing in at 2.9 tonnes, it comes as no surprise that it also struggled with the slalom test.
However, to be fair, the makeshift course was rather small for a powerhouse like the Z9 GT. Perhaps more comprehensive tests on highways or larger circuits like Sepang would do better justice to the car’s true capabilities.
For your information, in addition to the PHEV version, the Z9 GT is also available as an EV featuring three electric motors and a 100 kWh battery. This version boasts a total output of 963 PS, is capable of sprinting from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.4 seconds and achieving a range of 630 km on a full charge.
Which version will be imported to Malaysia remains unclear but one thing for sure, the imminent arrival of the Z9 GT poses a challenge to other luxury brands.
Following the reveal of the Kia EV4, Kia has unveiled another purpose-built electric vehicle, the Kia PV5.
In terms of design, the Kia PV5 does not present significant differences compared to the PV5 Concept that was showcased over a year ago.
The Kia PV5 is available in both passenger van and cargo van versions.
The main difference between the two models is the presence of side windows in the passenger van, while the cargo van features sliding doors on both the left and right sides of the vehicle, along with twin tailgate openings at the back.
In addition, both models share similar design elements, such as LED daytime running lights (DRL) located at the end of the windshield, followed by the charging port and headlight unit in the center of the front fascia.
It also features relatively large door handles and vertical rear light units.
According to Kia, in addition to the passenger van and cargo van configurations, buyers will also have the option to choose from several other configurations for the PV5 or customize specifications according to their needs.
The full specifications of the Kia PV5 will be officially revealed on February 27.
After being showcased in Malaysia for the first time last week, the premium electric MPV from BYD’s sub-brand Denza, the D9, has been officially launched.
With this launch, Denza also announced the selling prices of the D9, starting at RM259,000 for the Advanced FWD variant and RM309,000 for the Premium AWD variant.
The vehicle comes with a warranty of up to eight years or 160,000 km for the battery (with a state of health exceeding 70%) and a warranty of up to eight years or 150,000 km for the drive motor and motor controller.
Additionally, Denza offers a vehicle warranty of up to six years or 150,000 km.
As reported previously, the D9 features a seven-seat configuration. It measures 5,250 mm in length, 1,960 mm in width, and 1,920 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 3,110 mm.
The Advanced FWD variant is powered by a single electric motor on the front axle, generating 308 hp and 360 Nm of torque, allowing it to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 9.5 seconds.
In contrast, the Premium AWD variant is equipped with two electric motors, delivering 369 hp and 470 Nm of torque, which reduces the acceleration time from 0 to 100 km/h to just 6.9 seconds.
Both variants are fitted with the same 103 kWh Blade LFP battery. However, the driving range (NEDC cycle) differs between the two variants, with the Advanced FWD achieving 600 km and the Premium AWD offering 580 km.
The battery supports DC fast charging of up to 166 kW, which can restore battery energy from 30% to 80% in just 30 minutes. Charging for 10 minutes will provide a range of 150 km.
Additionally, it is equipped with 11 kW AC charging.
A big plus in the interior is the captain’s seats in the second row. These seats feature 10-way electric adjustments, memory functions, and massage capabilities, all of which can be accessed and controlled via a small digital screen on the armrest.
The infotainment system includes a 10.25-inch digital instrument panel, a 15.6-inch touchscreen, a Dynaudio system with 14 speakers, and three 50W wireless chargers. Overall, this MPV offers six USB charging ports.
Moreover, features such as leather upholstery (Nappa for the Premium AWD), a panoramic glass roof, and a 7.5-litre refrigerator with heating functionality are also included.
In addition to the more luxurious leather upholstery, the Premium AWD variant comes with suede headliner, auto-dimming mirrors, a digital rearview mirror, and a 12-inch head-up display.
Another advantage of the range-topping variant is the inclusion of the intelligent Disus-C noise reduction system.
For safety, the D9 is equipped with six airbags and an advanced driver assistance system (ADAS) featuring functionalities such as Adaptive Cruise Control, Automatic Emergency Braking, Front Cross Traffic Alert, Lane Keeping Assist, Lane Departure Warning, and more.
Take note that Forward Traffic Crossing Alert (FCTA) and Forward Traffic Crossing Braking (FCTB) are only included in the Premium AWD variant.
At first glance, one might mistake this for a futuristic motorcycle straight out of the 1988 animated film Akira that has been brought to life in the real world.
In reality, this motorcycle is crafted by the Japanese design firm Ichiban, drawing inspiration from the fictional motorcycle mentioned earlier.
Unlike the fictional motorcycle from Akira, Ichiban’s two-wheeled machine takes a more minimalist approach.
In addition to the angular body panels and engine cover, it features a simple handlebar complete with a digital display screen reminiscent of 1980s video game graphics.
It is also equipped with LED headlights shaped like pills and a rear light that features overlapping horizontal line graphics.
Finally, the Ichiban motorcycle is dressed in a striking red and white two-tone color scheme—once again reminding us of the bikes from the Akira anime.
According to information on its official website, the Ichiban motorcycle is powered by two electric motors with 6.7 hp, accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.5 seconds and boasting a riding range of 250 km.
Interestingly, there is a “Godzilla” mode that allows riders to maintain a speed of 100 km/h for up to 10 seconds.
Safety features included are an anti-lock braking system (ABS) and traction control.
It should be noted that Ichiban’s electric two-wheeled machine is still a concept model, but it is highly likely to enter the prototype production phase before being sold to the public.
Continental Tyre Malaysia has stated that all of their tyres are suitable for electric vehicles, ensuring safety, comfort, and efficiency
Leveraging German technology and strong R&D, Continental addresses EV-specific requirements such as higher load capacity, low noise levels, and smooth performance.
Globally, the 10 highest-volume manufacturers of fully EVs, including BMW, BYD, Kia, Mercedes-Benz, Renault, Smart, and Volvo, rely on Continental tyres for their original equipment (OE).
Drawing on its extensive experience, Continental ensures that all its tyres across various segments are specifically designed to be fully compatible with EVs and tailored to meet their unique performance requirements.
Among the Continental tyres available in the market are:
The SportContact SC7 delivers exceptional driving confidence and performance
The MaxContact MC7 emphasises precise control and handling
The UltraContact UC7 is for those seeking both comfort and outstanding wet braking
The ComfortContact CC7 stands out for its superior comfort and quiet ride
The EcoContact EC6/EC6 Q are designed to maximise energy efficiency, extending the driving range on a single charge
To ensure a tyre is suitable for an electric vehicle, consumers should look for features such as load and speed indexes of the tyre to handle the increased vehicle weight, traction and grip, and designs that maximise energy efficiency.
In addition to compatibility, Continental offers noise breaker technology that allows for quieter tyres.
“Our tyres are designed not only to enhance performance but also to meet the unique requirements of alternative drive systems. Our product lineup caters to a variety of vehicles, including fuel-powered, hybrid, and fully electric, and incorporates advanced technologies tailored to the specific demands of the Malaysian market,” said Andrea Somorova, Managing Director of Continental Tyre Malaysia.
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.
Launched in December last year, Malaysia’s first national EV Proton eMAS 7 has hit the mark with the market with 421 units delivered to customers for its first month.
According to Proton, this places the eMAS 7 as the best-selling EV in Malaysia with a 25% share of the overall EV market for January.
“It took just one month for the Proton e.MAS 7 to lead national EV sales, proving Malaysians will make the switch to EVs when the product and price proposition are correct,” said Zhang Qiang, Deputy Chief Executive Officer of Proton Edar.
Current bookings for the eMAS 7 now exceed 4,000 units, and as a result, Proton is offering the launch package benefits to an additional 3,000 units.
The automaker said over 80% of bookings are for the Premium model and the numbers are set to go up over coming months as more units arrive and more dealerships are opened.
Meanwhile, Proton also announced its sales performance for January 2025, totalling 9,914 units for both domestic and export markets, including eMAS and smart cars.
This compares to 12,882 units (ICE cars only) reported for January 2024. Based on the estimated TIV figure, the company’s market share is therefore forecast at 19.7%, an increase from the overall figure of 18.7% last year.
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.
It is no secret that Denza, BYD’s premium sub-brand, will make its way to the Malaysian market through Sime Darby Auto Imports as the official importer and BYD Malaysia as the official distributor.
The brand’s very first offering for the local crowd will be the Denza D9 luxury electric MPV, which has been officially showcased to the media ahead of its launch on February 20.
As expected, the price has yet to be announced; however, we can confirm that the D9 will be available in two variants: the Advanced FWD and the Premium AWD.
Both variants come standard with a seven-seat configuration and there will be three exterior colours to choose from, namely Arctic White, Whale Sea Blue, and Cosmos Black.
The Advanced FWD is powered by a single electric motor that generates 308 hp and 360 Nm, enabling it to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 9.5 seconds.
Meanwhile, the Premium AWD features a two-motor setup, providing a total power output of 369 hp and 470 Nm. Thanks to the increased power, the 0-100 km/h acceleration time is reduced to just 6.9 seconds.
Both variants are equipped with a standard 103 kWh Blade LFP battery, which offers a NEDC range of 600 km for the Advanced FWD and 580 km for the Premium AWD.
The D9 supports DC fast charging of up to 166 kW, allowing the battery’s juice to be replenished from 30% to 80% in 30 minutes, or regain a range of up to 150 km with 10 minutes of charging. The battery also supports 11 kW AC charging.
Inside, the fully-electric MPV can accommodate up to seven passengers (with a height of up to 180 cm) in a 2-2-3 seating configuration, featuring captain’s chairs in the second row.
The captain’s chairs come with plenty of niceties, including 10-way electric adjustments, memory functions, and a massage feature, which can be accessed and controlled via a small digital screen on the armrest of each chair.
Other features include Nappa leather upholstery, suede headlining (available only in the Premium AWD variant), a panoramic glass roof, and a little refrigerator that also has a heating function.
As for the infotainment, the D9 is equipped as standard with a 10.25-inch digital instrument panel, a 15.6-inch touchscreen, a Dynaudio sound system with 14 speakers, and three 50W wireless chargers. In total, there are six USB charging ports.
Behind the third-row seats, there is cargo space which Denza claims is able to accommodate seven 20-inch suitcases along with seven backpacks.
Finally, the D9 is equipped with advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), featuring capabilities such as Adaptive Cruise Control, Automatic Emergency Braking, Front Cross Traffic Alert, Lane Keeping Assist, Lane Departure Warning, and much more.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Automotive company Hyundai has announced a collaboration with TVS Motor Company to develop last-mile mobility solutions for the Indian market.
Two concept models have been showcased: a three-wheeled rickshaw concept (E3W) and a more suitable four-wheeled concept (E4W) designed for vehicle-sharing services.
Both vehicles feature a minimalist design reminiscent of the tuk-tuks commonly found on the congested roads of India.
To ensure lower manufacturing costs, Hyundai plans to use recycled plastic and flatter body panels, thereby reducing the burden on owners when replacing damaged parts.
Compared to typical rickshaws, the E3W boasts dimensions that are 200 mm longer and 35 mm taller to facilitate easier entry and exit.
Other features included are bottle holders and smart device storage, a USB charging port, and storage space under the seat.
Another concept model, named E4W, has a four-wheel configuration and a cabin space that appears larger than that of the E3W.
The handling characteristics are more akin to those of a real car, featuring a minimalist digital display and a round steering wheel equipped with a cluster of control buttons.
Under the bench-style second-row seat, there is storage space for goods, as well as a special board that can be used to hang items like fans or umbrellas.
An auto rickshaw speeds through heavy rain in Agartala, India on June 1st (Reuters/Jayanta Dey) pic.twitter.com/IQCW6GAQUZ
According to Hyundai, the ground clearance for both models can be adjusted as needed, particularly when navigating waterlogged routes during the monsoon season.
No specifications regarding the powertrain have been provided at this time.
However, it is worth noting that TVS has launched the three-wheeled King EV Max rickshaw priced at INR 295,000 (RM 14,928), which offers a range of 179 km and a top speed of 60 km/h.
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