Sime Darby Motors has launched the fourth BYD electric vehicle for the Malaysian market – the all-new BYD M6.
The M6, which is an MPV, is offered in a seven-seat configuration with two variants to choose from, namely Standard and Extended.
Both variants are equipped with a single electric motor driving the front wheels.
The Standard variant has a total power output of 161 hp and 310 Nm of torque, enabling it to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 10.1 seconds.
On the other hand, the Extended variant, with 201 hp and the same amount of torque, is capable of completing the 0-100 km/h acceleration in 8.6 seconds.
In addition to output, the battery capacities between the two variants also differ.
The M6 Standard comes with a Blade LFP battery with a capacity of 55.4 kWh, offering a range of 420 km based on the NEDC cycle.
The Extended variant is equipped with a larger battery with a capacity of 71.8 kWh, providing a driving range of 530 km on a full charge.
The maximum fast charging rates also vary between the variants, with 89 kW for the Standard and 115 kW for the Extended. The latter requires 40 minutes to charge from 10% to 80%.
Despite the difference in battery capacity, the Vehicle-to-Load feature is included as standard across the range.
In terms of equipment, the M6 comes with ‘floating’ LED headlights and taillights, 17-inch alloy wheels, a 12.8-inch rotating touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a karaoke system, and an NFC digital key.
A panoramic roof, 15W wireless charger, and electric tailgate are also included.
On the safety front, the M6 comes standard with six airbags, a Tyre Pressure Monitoring System, Isofix, ABS, an Electric Parking Brake, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control, and a 360-degree View Monitor.
The Extended variant gains ADAS technology, which includes Autonomous Emergency Braking, Intelligent Cruise Control, Front and Rear Collision Warning, Blind Spot Detection, and Lane Departure Assist.
Pricing starts from RM109,800 for the M6 Standard and RM123,800 for the M6 Extended.
The electric MPV is offered with a warranty of six years/150,000 km for the vehicle, eight years/160,000 km for the battery, and eight years/150,000 km for the drive unit.
Zeekr Malaysia has recently announced the upcoming launch of a premium MPV model, the Zeekr 009.
It is set to offer stiff competition in the premium MPV segment, especially against the popular Alphard/Vellfire twin models that are well-known among the Malaysian populace.
For this article, we will share the differences in specifications between the Zeekr 009 model and premium MPVs such as Alphard/Vellfire, Lexus LM, and Kia Carnival.
Dimensions
The majority of the models mentioned have dimensions exceeding 5 meters.
Starting with the Alphard/Vellfire, it measures 5,010 mm in length, 1,850 mm in width, 1,950 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 3,000 mm.
Another twin, the Lexus LM, has longer dimensions (5,125 mm) and is wider (1,890 mm) but maintains the same wheelbase length.
The Kia Carnival, on the other hand, presents much larger dimensions, measuring 5,155 mm in length, 1,995 mm in width, a wheelbase of 3,090 mm, but lower in height (1,740 mm).
The largest? Certainly the Zeekr 009.
With dimensions measuring 5,209 mm in length, it is also wider (2,024 mm) with a longer wheelbase (3,205 mm). Its height is around 1,848 mm, meaning it is slightly lower compared to the Alphard/Vellfire.
Engine
This is an interesting comparison, as all five premium MPV models are equipped with different powertrains.
The least powerful is undoubtedly the Toyota Vellfire with a 2.5-liter NA engine generating 180 hp and 235 Nm of torque.
The Toyota Alphard, on the other hand, comes with a 2.4-liter turbo engine producing 274 hp and 430 Nm of torque, while the Lexus LM is equipped with a similar capacity engine but with a hybrid setup, delivering a total power of 371 hp and 550 Nm of torque.
The Kia Carnival features a 2.2-liter turbo diesel engine that has been offered for quite some time, producing 199 hp and 440 Nm of torque.
The Zeekr 009, on the other hand, is an EV with two electric motors generating 603 hp and 693 Nm of torque, an all-wheel-drive system, and a 116 kWh battery pack with a range of 582 km (WLTP data).
Due to the powerful electric motors, this MPV is capable of accelerating from 0-100 km/h in just 4.5 seconds. It is very suitable for transporting VIPs who have difficulty keeping to a schedule in Malaysia.
Price
One aspect considered by buyers in Malaysia is the selling price.
The most affordable in this list is undoubtedly the Kia Carnival, with the base variant available for as low as RM198,500. The most expensive version of the Carnival bears a price tag of RM259,888.
Shifting to the Toyota/Lexus trio, the cheapest among the three models is the Toyota Vellfire, with a starting selling price of around RM438,000.
The Toyota Alphard is slightly more expensive, priced at RM538,000, while the much more premium Lexus LM can be obtained for RM1,228,000 to RM1,468,000!
The Zeekr 009 seems to be more comfortably positioned in the middle, with an estimated selling price below RM370,000, with the actual selling price to be known only after its official launch.
In addition to the luxurious MPV 009, Zeekr Malaysia is also set to launch an electric crossover known as the X to heat up the competition in the local EV market.
For your information, the X actually has ‘siblings’ that have already been launched in Malaysia, specifically the smart #1 and #3, along with the Volvo EX30.
What is the connection between the X and these three models? Interestingly, despite their very different designs, all of them share the same ‘skeleton’ that is the Sustainable Experience Architecture (SEA) platform developed by Geely.
This is not surprising, as smart, Volvo, and Zeekr all operate under the Geely umbrella and platform sharing is arguably the easiest way to reduce costs.
In this article, we will compare the four models to help you choose the one that best fits your budget and needs:
Dimensions
Although they utilise the same platform, all four EVs have slightly different dimensions. The smart #1 is the smallest, measuring 4,270 mm in length, 1,820 mm in width, and 1,636 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,750 mm.
The #3 is slightly larger, with a length of 4,400 mm, width of 1,844 mm, height of 1,556 mm, and a wheelbase of 2,785 mm.
The EX30, Volvo’s smallest car to date, measures 4,223 mm in length, 1,837 mm in width, 1,555 mm in height, and has a wheelbase of 2,650 mm.
Meanwhile, the X stands out as the longest model, measuring 4,450 mm in length, 1,836 mm in width, and 1,572 mm in height. However, its wheelbase is identical to that of the #1, also at 2,750 mm.
Powertrain
For this category, we will compare the twin electric motor variants. Interestingly, all four have the same power output of 422 hp (315 kW) and 543 Nm of torque.
However, looking at the acceleration time from 0 to 100 km/h, the EX30 Ultra Twin Performance is the fastest at 3.6 seconds. The #3 Brabus follows closely at 3.7 seconds, with the X at 3.8 seconds, and finally, the #1 at 3.9 seconds.
The maximum speed for all four models is capped at 180 km/h.
Battery and Range
In terms of battery, the #1 Pro and #3 Pro come equipped with LFP 49 kWh batteries, offering ranges between 315 km and 325 km. The Premium variants of both models use nickel manganese cobalt (NMC) 66 kWh batteries, with ranges from 440 km to 455 km.
The highest variant, Brabus, uses the same battery but with a shorter range of 400 km for the #1 and 415 km for the #3.
The EX30 features a 69 kWh NMC battery, providing a range of 476 km for the single motor variants (Plus and Ultra) and 450 km for the Ultra Twin Performance variant with twin motors.
Meanwhile, the X is equipped with a 66 kWh NMC battery, promising a range of 440 km based on the WLTP cycle.
Price
This may be the most crucial aspect when comparing these four electric crossovers.
Starting with the #1, the Pro variant is priced at RM169,000, the Premium at RM209,000, and the Brabus at RM249,000.
The #3 Pro retails for RM175,000, the Premium for RM215,000, and the Brabus at RM255,000.
For the EX30, the base variant (Plus) is priced at RM188,888, the Ultra at RM208,888, and the Ultra Twin Performance at RM228,888.
As of the time of writing, the official price for the Zeekr X has yet to be announced. However, according to the company, it is expected to be priced below RM180,000.
R&A Greentech Solutions Sdn Bhd, a subsidiary under the Sendok Group, has introduced another electric-powered commercial truck, the JAC i40, to the local market.
The JAC i40 is available in four body configurations, namely wood cargo, refrigerated box, corrugated box, and standard box van.
In terms of dimensions, the i40 measures 5,300 mm in length, 1,750 mm in width, 1,990 mm in height with a wheelbase of 3,100 mm, and a gross vehicle weight (GVW) of around 3,700 kg.
It is powered by a single 141 hp electric motor delivering 300 Nm of torque, with power sourced from a 63.75 kWh battery pack.
The range is approximately 230 km according to WLTP data, or up to 300 km at a maximum speed of 60 km/h.
The JAC i40 supports AC charging (20-100% in 8.5 hours) and fast DC charging at 90 kW enabling 20-80% battery charging in just 40 minutes.
Inside, the JAC i40 features amenities such as a 5-inch TFT cluster screen, a seven-inch central display with Bluetooth support and a reverse camera, and a rotary knob in the center.
Safety features include ABS, EBS, Hill Start Assist, Electronic Stability Control, and Low-Speed Pedestrian Alert System.
For the Malaysian market, the selling price of the JAC i40 starts from RM155,600 (on the road without insurance) for the base version and can go up to RM223,800 for the refrigerated box version.
The International Greentech and Eco Product Exhibition and Conference Malaysia (IGEM), held at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre, showcased a variety of electric vehicles for commercial use.
Among them is the CAM EC35 electric van, which is available in three versions: panel van, semi-panel van, and window van. The displayed unit is a window van that has been modified into an ambulance.
All three versions share the same dimensions, measuring 4,500 mm in length, 1,680 mm in width, and 1,985 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 3,050 mm. The gross weight is 2,600 kg, while the payload capacity ranges from 1,025 to 1,090 kg.
The panel van accommodates two seats, the semi-panel van has five seats, while the window van features a configuration for six or eight seats.
The EC35 is powered by a single electric motor located on the rear axle, generating 80 hp (60 kW) and 200 Nm of torque. Energy is supplied by a 38.7 kWh battery, which allows for a range of 268 km based on the WLTP cycle.
Standard AC charging takes approximately five hours to recharge the battery from 20% to 80%, while DC fast charging requires 80 minutes to charge from 20% to 80% or 2.5 hours for a full charge.
Additional features of the EC35 include power windows, ABS, EBD, reverse sensors, and a reverse camera with the feed displayed on an eight-inch screen.
Needless to say, several modifications must be made to convert it into an ambulance.
These include installing a LED light bar, siren, loudspeakers, PA system, and eight units of LED warning lights (two on the front grille, four on the side of the roof, and two on the rear of the roof). All rear windows are tinted with a VLT of 95%.
Inside, the vehicle features an 18 mm thick waterproof plywood floor, aluminum cabinets, and an oxygen pipeline along with related components. It is also equipped with a fire extinguisher, AC inverter, three-pin socket, USB ports, LED ceiling lights, and two stretchers.
The EC35 is priced starting at RM135,000 for the panel van, RM138,500 for the semi-panel van, and RM145,000 for the eight-seat window van.
The ambulance version will set buyers back RM199,000. It comes with a warranty of five years or 120,000 km for the vehicle, and a one-year warranty for the installation.
Denza, a premium sub-brand under BYD, is set to enter the Malaysian market through Sime Darby Auto Imports as the official importer, alongside BYD Malaysia, which will serve as the official distributor.
An official signing ceremony for the importation and distribution of Denza was held yesterday between BYD Auto Industry and both companies.
This marks a new journey and further enhances the relationship between BYD and Sime Darby as a group, expanding the partnership with the latter as an official importer.
The signing will be the first step for Denza entering into Malaysia. The luxury electric vehicle sub-brand is set to bring a new dimension to Malaysia’s EV market with premium cutting-edge technology, features and driving experience.
Through Denza, BYD aims to provide Malaysians a more diverse, innovative and premium EV experience.
Liu Xueliang, General Manager of Asia-Pacific Auto Sales Division at BYD said they are excited to partner with Sime Darby Auto Imports to bring Denza to the Malaysian market, marking a significant milestone for BYD in its journey to expand its electric vehicle offerings in Southeast Asia.
“Being at the forefront of innovation, we are proud to bring our advanced EV technology to Malaysia where the appetite for sustainable mobility continues to grow.
With Denza, we will be able to offer our customers a better experience through our premium technology and features within the EV industry. We believe Denza will redefine the premium EV experience and set new standards for Malaysian drivers,” he said.
Dennis Ho, Managing Director, Assembly and Strategic Businesses at Sime Darby Motors, added: “We are committed to a pivotal role in accelerating the growth of electric vehicles in Malaysia and we believe that bringing in Denza will be a significant part of this journey.”
Eagle Zhao, Managing Director of BYD Malaysia Sdn. Bhd., highlighted the brand’s commitment to enhancing Malaysia’s EV landscape.
“BYD’s mission has always been to make electric vehicles accessible to more people, and with the introduction of Denza, we are offering Malaysian drivers a premium choice that embodies both luxury and sustainability. The rapid adoption of EVs in Malaysia is a testament to the country’s progress in embracing a cleaner, greener future,” he said.
In conjunction with its 80th anniversary, Kia UK has unveiled a restomod project of the 1990s small hatchback bearing the Kia Pride EV brand.
This compact car was originally a rebranded version of the Ford Festiva, and was also marketed as the Mazda 121 model.
While it used to be equipped with 1.1 and 1.3-liter internal combustion engines, this latest restomod project has replaced these powerplants with a zero-emission powertrain unit producing 107 hp and 235 Nm of torque.
Utilizing expertise from Electrogenic, Kia has retained the original five-speed manual transmission, albeit with a performance-oriented clutch kit.
Despite the stated changes, the overall weight of this Pride EV is only 870 kg, which is 20 kg heavier than the original model.
For comparison, the modern EV6 from Kia, featuring a single electric motor with 225 hp, has a curb weight of around 2,065 kg.
The Kia Pride also offers several driving mode options.
In Eco mode, it limits power to 60 hp/118 Nm with a 0-100 km/h acceleration in 11.8 seconds, similar to the original ICE model.
The Auto driving mode (80 hp/176 Nm) offers a more modern EV driving experience, along with suitable regenerative braking function for urban use.
The Sport mode allows for a 0-100 km/h acceleration in eight seconds.
These sporty characteristics are well hidden as a key part of this car’s sleeper appeal, including the retention of the original 12-inch tire size and authentic rim caps.
Furthermore, the charging socket is also discreetly hidden behind the original fuel filler cap, which can be locked from the outside.
Other than the standard exterior appearance, Kia has only upgraded a few aspects, such as the White Pearl exterior paint, front and rear lights, and new upholstery for the cabin space.
Additionally, the original instrument cluster is still retained, with the only change being the fuel gauge, which has been converted into a battery capacity indicator.
One noticeable drawback of the Kia Pride EV is its limited range, approximately 193 km only.
This is because, unlike modern EVs, the Kia Pride EV has been fitted with two battery packs each with a capacity of 10 kWh (one in the front and one under the trunk floor).
With a charging power of 3.3 kW, it takes about six hours to fully charge.
Considering the level of craftsmanship exhibited by the Kia Pride EV, it would not be surprising for local manufacturers to embark on a restomod project using iconic models such as the Proton Saga Knight or Perodua Kancil.
MINI Malaysia today officially launched the latest electric crossover model, MINI Aceman, for the local market.
In terms of size, the MINI Aceman is positioned between the MINI Cooper and MINI Countryman models, but still retains the go-kart-like handling characteristics, thanks to its low center of gravity.
It is powered by a single electric motor producing 218 hp/330 Nm, with acceleration from 0-100 km/h in 7.1 seconds.
The 54.2 kWh battery pack allows a range of up to 406 km on a full charge (WLTP data), making it suitable for urban use and weekend driving.
The MINI Aceman supports 11 kW AC charging, as well as fast DC charging up to 95 kW, allowing the battery to be charged from 10-80 percent in just 30 minutes.
This electric crossover is also equipped with automatic battery preconditioning to ensure optimal charging performance and allow users to set the charging time according to their needs.
Externally, the MINI Aceman features an octagonal grille structure, LED headlights, 19-inch rims, roof rails, and body protection plastic that adorns the wheel arches.
Entering the cabin, the MINI Aceman features a 240 mm OLED circular screen powered by MINI Operating System 9, the use of recycled materials for upholstery, a head-up display screen, and a Harman Kardon surround sound system.
The MINI Aceman also provides the GO-KART driving mode, where the throttle becomes more responsive for a more sporty driving experience.
Loaded safety features include Lane Change Warning, Speed Limit Info, Frontal Collision Warning with brake intervention, and Parking Assistant Plus features such as Active Park Distance Control, Reversing Assist Camera, and Remote 3D View.
The selling price of the MINI Aceman starts from RM213,888 with monthly installments as low as RM2,311 through Easy Drive financing based on a 75 percent loan for a five-year period.
The New MINI Aceman will also be showcased at the MINI Roadshows in all major cities, kicking off at The Exchange TRX from the 9th to the 13th of October 2024.
Sime Darby Motors (SDM) has announced that it has sold over 10,000 BYD vehicles nationwide since being appointed the official distributor of the brand in September 2022.
To celebrate this achievement, Sime Darby Motors recently organised the ‘BYD Dream Drive Melaka 2024’ convoy, which was joined by over 60 BYD vehicles.
According to the company, Melaka was chosen to coincide with this year’s 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Malaysia and China, making it an apt destination given its historical connections with China dating back to the 15th century.
Jeffrey Gan, the Managing Director of Southeast Asia at Sime Darby Motors, stated the milestone reflected the growing adoption of electric vehicles in the region and Sime Darby’s strong position as a leader in EV.
“Our commitment to providing the best experience and services through this strategic partnership with BYD has contributed to this success,” he added.
Eagle Zhao, the Managing Director of BYD Malaysia, added, “This milestone reflects the trust and support of our customers who embrace the future of mobility with BYD. It’s been an incredible journey with Sime Darby Motors and we look forward to elevating sustainable driving experiences in Malaysia.”
BYD Malaysia said it has set its sights on reaching the next 10,000 cars milestone in a shorter timeframe.
Meanwhile, Sime Darby Motors plans to expand the BYD network in Malaysia to 30 showrooms by the end of this year. Currently, there are 26 BYD showrooms nationwide. This consists of 19 dealer partners, with 16 3S centres and 10 1S centres.
The electric sedan Ora 07, or also known as Ora Lightning Cat, may well be a unique EV package in the Malaysian market at this time.
It brings a package of aesthetics inspired by million-dollar models, while still being fairly affordable.
We’ve already shared a test drive review before, but in this article, we will discuss three things that are less favored in this model.
1. The ‘most red’ tail light housing
The exterior design of this Ora 07 is indeed feminine and looks simple, complete with an adaptive spoiler.
However, the less favored aspect is the entirely red tail light housing structure.
During daytime driving, other road users may find it difficult to guess whether the driver has already signaled to turn or is intending to enter an intersection using ‘niat’.
2. No analog meter theme options
We quite like the ‘cluster’ of Porsche 911-style meters present in the Ora 07’s cabin space.
It looks classic and modern at the same time.
However, its shortcoming is that it does not offer analog meter theme options to suit the masculine driving spirit of this Ora 07.
But honestly, the display of these meter graphics is much neater compared to other Chinese-made sedans in the market.
3. Easy but complicated-to-use convenience
As someone who doesn’t want driving focus disrupted on the road, the writer greatly appreciates the presence of a manual fan speed button in the center console for the air conditioning system.
This means it’s very easy to adjust the temperature and the speed of the cool air in the cabin.
However, that’s it.
Other functions such as the direction of the air need to be adjusted through a hidden menu on the infotainment screen, and there are no manual stalk available on the air vents!
You can read the full Ora 07 test drive report at the link below:
BYD is set to further expand its electric vehicle lineup in Malaysia with a new MPV called the M6.
In a recent media Q&A session in Changsha, China, Liu Xueliang, General Manager of BYD Asia-Pacific Auto Sales Division, confirmed that the fully-electric MPV will enter the Malaysian market this year.
However, the exact launch date is still unknown, along with the specifications and variants that will be offered.
It is expected that the specifications for the Malaysian market will not differ significantly from those available in Indonesia and Thailand.
In Indonesia, the M6 can be hand in six- or seven-seat configurations, while in Thailand, it is available only as a six-seater.
Both markets offer two output variants. The base variant, powered by a front axle electric motor, has 163 PS and 310 Nm of torque, whereas the more powerful variant (known as Superior in Indonesia and Extended in Thailand) gets 204 PS and 310 Nm from the same single-motor setup.
As with other BYD EVs, juice for the motor is supplied by an LFP battery, with a capacity of 55.4 kWh for the base variant and 71.8 kWh for the Superior/Extended variants. This equals to an NEDC range of up to 420 km for the former and 530 km for the latter.
The base M6 supports 85-kW DC fast charging, while the Superior/Extended can accommodate up to 115 kW, allowing the battery to be charged from 10% to 80% in just 40 minutes. Meanwhile, AC charging is limited to 7 kW for both variants.
The M6 can be considered a replacement for the e6, which was supposed to launch in Malaysia after the Atto 3. Compared to the e6, its exterior design aligns more closely with recent BYD models, featuring a silver grille that connects to the projector LED headlights.
On the side, chrome trim is generously applied on the window frames and side skirts, while the rear boasts a full-width light strip accompanied by a chrome strip. Unlike the Atto 3, the M6 ditches the “Build Your Dream” wording with the more understated “BYD” badge.
While the interior is evidently more conventional compared to the Atto 3 or Dolphin, the M6 still offers a comprehensive equipment list, which includes a 12.8-inch rotating screen, dual wireless charging, keyless entry, a panoramic glass roof, and automatic air conditioning, to name a few.
In terms of safety, the M6 comes equipped with six airbags and plenty of ADAS features such as Autonomous Emergency Braking, Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Centring Assist, Emergency Lane Keeping Assist, and Blind Spot Monitoring.
As for pricing, the M6 is sold for between 379 million to 429 million rupiah (approximately RM102,968 to RM116,481) in Indonesia, while in Thailand, it starts from 829,900 baht to 929,900 baht (around RM106,014 to RM118,788).
In addition to the Zeekr X, Zeekr Malaysia has also opened bookings for another electric model, the Zeekr 009 minivan.
Targeted as a competitor to the popular Alphard/Vellfire MPVs, the Zeekr 009 offers a package that is much more spacious, powerful, and at the same time, more affordable.
Two variants are offered, namely the Luxury with a seven-seater configuration, and the Ultra Luxury with six seats.
This electric MPV comes with twin electric motors producing 603 hp and 693 Nm, powering all wheels (AWD), achieving acceleration from 0-100 km/h in just 4.5 seconds.
The 116 kWh battery pack offers a driving range of up to 582 km (WLTP data), in addition to supporting fast DC charging at 150 kW (charging from 10 to 80 percent in 30 minutes).
The driving aspect of the Zeekr 009 is assisted by a double-wishbone multilink suspension system, electromagnetic air suspension, and automatic balancing function, along with matrix LED lighting with adaptive driving beam (ADB) and smart zone lighting functions.
The Zeekr 009’s cabin space is equipped with a 10.25-inch cluster meter, a 15.05-inch infotainment screen, a 35.95-inch augmented reality (AR) head-up display, a 17-inch OLED roof screen, Yamaha surround sound system, 50W wireless smart device charging, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support, and up to 9 USB-C ports available.
The driver and front passenger seats are provided with 12-way adjustment, massage function, ventilation, and memory.
Meanwhile, the second-row passengers are provided with Sofaro First Class Aeronautics seats with an Ultra Long Electric Slide Rail function extending 1.1 meters, adjustable footrest, ventilation, massage, and memory functions.
The ADAS system includes features such as lane centering control (LCC), adaptive cruise control (ACC), front (CMSF) and rear (CMSR) collision mitigation support, lane departure prevention, blind spot detection (BSD), door opening alerts, and driver performance monitoring system (DPM).
For the Malaysian market, the estimated price of the Zeekr 009 starts from RM370,000 with a reservation fee of RM4,000.
Zeekr Malaysia today officially opens booking for the urban electric SUV model Zeekr X for the local market.
The Zeekr X is offered in two main variants, namely Premium and Flagship AWD.
The Premium version is powered by a rear-wheel-drive electric motor with 268 hp, accelerating from 0-100 km/h in 5.6 seconds.
Meanwhile, the Flagship AWD version comes with two electric motors generating 422 hp, achieving a 0-100 km/h acceleration in just 3.8 seconds.
A 66 kWh battery pack comes as standard, allowing a range of up to 440 km, in addition to supporting fast DC charging at 150 kW (10-80 percent charging in 30 minutes).
There are five color options including Crystal White, Mist Grey, Grid Grey, Palace Beige, and Pine Green, while the interior cabin is available in Charcoal Black and Stone Grey.
The Zeekr X also comes equipped with ADAS features, including Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Automatic Lane Changing (ALC), Lane Centering Control (LCC), Lane Keep Assist (LKA), Front (CMSF) and Rear (CMSR) Collision Mitigation Support, Front (FCTA) and Rear (RCTA) Cross-Traffic Avoidance Support, and more.
Additionally, the Zeekr X is equipped with seven airbags, a 360-degree camera system, and a dashcam for recording driving footage.
The estimated price range for the Zeekr X starts from RM180,000, with buyers required to pay a reservation fee of RM2,000.
Electric cars that prioritize high aerodynamic efficiency and low drag coefficient are indeed capable of offering benefits in terms of longer range.
However, their drawback is that they will not have the sleek design of traditional cars that exist in the market.
The closest examples you can see are the designs of any electric sedan by Mercedes-Benz, such as the EQS, EQE, and the concept model Vision EQXX.
Speaking to the automotive website Drive Australia, Florian Mockenhaupt, Volvo’s Senior Exterior Design Manager, said, “It’s not about aesthetic value, but producing a car that looks like an Apple mouse will come with various compromises.”
He added that Volvo’s future cars will benefit from improved aerodynamics while maintaining the comfort aspect desired by customers.
Mockenhaupt also emphasized that Volvo will not employ the “same sausage, different lengths” strategy used by some competitors from Germany.
According to Automotive News, the CEO of Volvo confirmed that the brand will launch up to 10 new generation models and updated versions over the next 24 months.
Two of these will be the all new EX60 crossover and the ES90 sedan, which will be offered in both EV and plug-in hybrid (PHEV) versions.
The first time this model stormed into memory was when attending the Auto Shanghai 2023 event last year.
Ora 07, or better known as Ora Lightning Cat in the international market, indeed brings a controversial design, reminiscent of the Porsche Panamera sedan and Porsche 911 models.
To place it on par with million-dollar models may be an unfair assessment.
Ora 07 is the second electric vehicle (EV) model introduced by GWM Malaysia after the cute Ora Good Cat hatchback, with a price offer below RM200,000 (RM169,800).
Compared to closest competitors like BYD Seal and Tesla Model 3, is the Ora 07 just an ordinary EV?
Based on a recent test drive experience, the definitive answer we can give is, “No!”
1. Feminine Design
BYD Seal and Tesla Model 3 present a more traditional sedan body design.
The Ora 07, on the other hand, is more reminiscent of the Porsche Panamera body, with a more tapered roof line, followed by a quite long body dimensions.
The rear also features an electrically powered adaptive spoiler that can be raised or lowered as needed, and the front lights, when viewed from any angle, resemble the 911.
Overall, this is not a negative aspect of the Ora 07. It is suitable for those with a feminine spirit and individuals looking for something different in the electric sedan segment.
However, the all-red rear light design may confuse road users and make it difficult to determine whether the signal is for turning or not.
2. Bugatti, Porsche Inspired Interior
Not content with just the exterior, the interior layout also draws much inspiration from famous models.
The high central console seems to take inspiration from Bugatti, while the front digital cluster screen clearly brings Porsche elements.
At the very least, the layout shown in this space is much better and more elegant compared to cars that simply place an iPad screen on the dashboard during development and then sell it to the public.
The writer particularly likes the design of the Ora 07’s digital cluster screen, it looks fresher.
However, the downside is that it does not come with theme options that match its round design. Moreover, there are no options for available analog meter graphics!
3. Easy to Operate, but Still Troublesome
One thing the writer appreciates about the Ora 07, apart from the support for Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, is the presence of manual control buttons in the central area for the air conditioning system.
It offers controls for fan speed and cabin temperature. Easy to operate using muscle memory. However, that’s the only benefit provided.
There are no physical fan speed controls included on the air conditioning vent. This means that if you feel bothered by the cold air blowing into your nose, you will have to delve into additional menus for climate control on the infotainment screen.
Yes, the Ora 07 includes several types of air flow mode on the screen for use during the summer, but it’s not a feature that can make daily driving more pleasant.
Fortunately, the Ora 07 is equipped with an engaging 11-speaker Infinity audio system, so you can enjoy your favorite songs after fiddling with the climate control settings.
4. Comfortable Cabin, but…
The use of premium materials dominates the Ora 07’s cabin space. It looks luxurious.
The standard factory-installed sports seats also contribute to the comfort aspect, as do the quite cushy rear seats.
Apart from the long wheelbase, one thing that makes the space look more spacious is the fairly wide and elongated panoramic glass roof.
Because of this, rear passengers can enjoy more headroom. Just avoid long-distance travel for extended periods when the sun is directly overhead.
There are no switches available to open the glass panel structure, and no sunshades provided in that area to filter out the sunlight that can burn your hair.
5. Limited Cargo Space Access
This sedan offers a cargo space of 333 liters, sufficiently enough for daily use.
Although the Ora 07 comes standard with a fastback sedan body shape, it does not provide the ability to open the rear extensively like any other aeroback model.
The somewhat limited opening may make it difficult for you to load larger items.
Fortunately, the second-row seats can be folded, allowing you to place longer items in the rear.
Additionally, there are several small storage spaces available in the cabin, further enhancing the practical aspect of the Ora 07.
6. Masculine Driving Experience
As standard, the Ora 07 comes with a single powerful electric motor setting of 201 hp and 340 Nm that drives the front wheels.
The power is sufficient to propel the electric sedan in urban routes, with no issues of power shortage.
Aggressive acceleration can also be achieved in a manner that is quite smooth and seamless, without resulting in the usual power surge effect experienced in other electric cars.
What makes the writer excited about this electric sedan is the delightful driving experience package that is hard to find in any other electric car.
Despite featuring various feminine characteristics, the driving aspect of the Ora 07 is more masculine. It’s like a car with dual personalities.
For a moment, the writer completely forgot that the Ora 07 is a heavy electric sedan (2.5 tons) when testing its handling on winding roads.
The steering response is good enough to ensure the car stays on the right track, in addition to the chassis tuning and suspension system that make the driving experience of this electric sedan quite enjoyable on the winding roads of Negeri Sembilan.
Body roll is also felt at a minimum level, making the writer more enthusiastic to continue pressing the accelerator pedal every time a straight road is connected to a curve.
The use of Hankook Ventus S1 Evo3 tires also helps the sedan grip well on the asphalt surface.
Adding vibrancy to the Ora 07’s driving experience is the simulated sound of a fake engine that can be activated through the infotainment screen.
At the very least, it can satisfy your longing for the sound of an engine, and the writer believes this feature is way much better than the spaceship-like sound found in more expensive EV models.
There are several driving modes included that can be accessed through the central manual button, including the Well Being mode, which will deactivate the regenerative braking function and allow the car to continue coasting when the foot is removed from the accelerator pedal.
Like an ICE car, isn’t it?
7. Concerns about Range Anxiety?
We tested the Long Range variant paired with an 83.5 kWh battery pack.
According to NEDC data, the sedan can travel up to 640 km on a full charge, a figure that may be challenging but not impossible to achieve.
Based on our usage, we managed to record a driving range of 470 km before the battery reached 15 percent state of charge (SoC), with an estimated remaining range of about 102 km.
In our opinion, the Ora 07 is suitable for use as a daily commuter car or occasionally for intercity travel beyond two stages.
DC charging up to 88 kW allows the battery to be charged to 80 percent in just half an hour, meaning you won’t have to wait long if you need to undertake a long journey in the Ora 07.
8. Safety
As standard, the Ora 07 comes with advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) Level 2, which includes several key functions such as adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, autonomous emergency braking, smart lane keeping, and lane centering assistance.
The adaptive cruise control feature proves effective when on the highway to maintain a safe driving distance.
However, the way the lane centering assistance operates on the other hand may be perceived as slightly aggressive, especially for those who are confident in their driving skills.
Conclusion
With a starting price of RM169,800, this Ora 07 Long Range could be an alternative electric sedan that caters to the preferences of buyers who seek something different and want to stand out from the norm.
Although it has some shortcomings, all those issues may fade away when you are able to enjoy the very satisfying driving experience this sedan offers.
Don’t believe it? Even now, the writer still can’t believe it!
Specifications:
Electric Motor: Single, front-wheel drive
Power: 201 hp, 340 Nm
Acceleration: 0-100 km/h in 7.9 seconds
Maximum Speed: 170 km/h
Battery: 83.5 kWh
Range: 640 km (NEDC data)
Kenanga Research predicts that the government will provide more incentives to boost the demand for electric vehicles (EVs) among the people of Malaysia, as reported by Utusan Malaysia.
The research firm said that this aligns with the national target for EVs and hybrid vehicles to constitute 15 percent of the total industry sales (TIV) by the year 2030, and further, to reach 38 percent by 2040.
“The current vehicle sales are supported by new battery electric vehicles (BEVs) enjoying sales and service tax (SST) exemptions and EV facility incentives until 2025 for completely built-up (CBU) and until 2027 for completely knocked down (CKD) units.
“New registrations for BEVs surged from 274 units in 2021 to over 3,400 units in 2022, 10,159 units in 2023, and 6,617 units in the first half of 2024 (according to the quarterly report),” the research notes stated.
According to Kenanga Research, the targeted reduction in petrol fuel subsidies expected to be implemented by the government may also increase the interest of the M40 group in EVs.
“The M40 group may refrain from buying new cars, or they may choose to switch to smaller vehicles or switch to EVs to reduce their fuel bills after the rationalization of fuel subsidies,” it said.
Meanwhile, the research firm mentioned that the Malaysian government will also expedite the approval of charging stations across the country.
“The current operating number of charging stations stands at 3,951, and it is expected to nearly triple to 10,000 by the end of this year,” it said.
The research firm also maintained its forecast for new vehicle sales in Malaysia for 2024, also known as TIV, at 740,000 units (eight percent lower), which is slightly more conservative compared to the forecast of 765,000 units by the Malaysian Automotive Association (MAA).
Overall, the firm said, the income visibility level of the industry remains good, supported by a balance of orders totaling 170,000 units at the end of July 2024, unchanged from the previous month.
“More than half of this balance consists of new models, indicating the attraction of new models to car buyers,” it concluded, emphasizing that the rationalization of petrol subsidies and the implementation of e-invoices could put pressure on vehicle sales in the second quarter of 2024.
Chinese automotive company Geely is currently scouting suitable locations to establish a large-scale production facility on the European continent.
However according to Reuters sources, Geely Auto Group’s Vice President Li Chuanhai confirmed that the plans were “not 100 percent” certain while speaking in Frankfurt, Germany last week.
Geely had previously held discussions with the Polish government, but the authorities in the country did not see Geely as an ideal investment partner.
In Frankfurt, Geely has opened a new facility where it will serve as the location for testing and developing 13 new models of electric vehicles to meet stricter European standards.
In addition to Geely, several Chinese automotive manufacturers, including Chery and GWM, are also planning to establish assembly plants in Europe to avoid higher tariffs imposed on imported EVs from the mainland.
Chinese automotive manufacturer Maxus has just launched its latest model, the electric pickup truck e-Terron 9, for the European market.
Unlike existing electric pickup trucks in the market, the Maxus e-Terron 9 features a semi-monocoque chassis construction that is quite unique.
It promises the advantages of both a unibody and body-on-frame construction within a single chassis.
The Maxus e-Terron 9 is powered by two electric motors that offer all-wheel drive, with a total power of 436 hp and 0-100 km/h acceleration in 5.8 seconds.
The truck offers several driving modes including Normal, Sand, Mud, and Custom, as well as an adjustable air suspension system.
Its 102 kWh lithium iron phosphate battery pack enables the truck to travel up to 430 km on a single full charge (WLTP data), in addition to supporting fast DC charging at 115 kW (20-80 percent in 40 minutes).
The Maxus e-Terron 9 features Vehicle-to-load (V2L) function, providing a 2.2 kW and 6.6 kW power outlet.
The exterior of the Maxus e-Terron 9 resembles well-known pickup truck models, such as the front end with C-shaped lighting units resembling the Ford F-150, and a side profile reminiscent of the Hummer EV.
As for the cabin interior, the Maxus e-Terron 9 features a minimalist dashboard design with a single panel housing dual screens, a two-spoke steering wheel, and two-tone leather upholstery.
There are up to 20 storage spaces for items, along with an eight-way power-adjustable driver’s seat with massage and ventilation functions.
The front seats can also be reclined flat to provide a resting space of 1,700 mm.
In terms of dimensions, the truck measures 5,500 mm in length, which is 140 mm longer than the Ford Ranger.
It is also capable of accommodating long cargoes up to 2,400 mm in the rear bed, thanks to the automatic tailgate and opening mid-gate feature.
Moreover, the Maxus e-Terron 9 can tow cargoes of up to 3,500 kg and has a payload capacity of around 620 kg.
In addition, it offers a front cargo space of 236 liters with an electrically powered frunk door.
The sales of the Maxus e-Terron 9 pickup truck in Europe are set to commence in the fourth quarter of this year.
Toyota’s mobility service division, Kinto, is now offering a new rental plan under the Vintage Club by Kinto program in Japan.
There are two classic concept cars available for enthusiasts to choose from, namely the Toyota AE86 G16E Concept and the AE86 BEV Concept.
These classic cars can be rented from October 17 to December 20, 2024, at the Toyota Mobility Tokyo GR Garage for an affordable price of just 20,000 yen (RM590) for a three-hour period.
The application slots opened on September 19 and will close on September 30. Selected applicants will be notified via email on October 3.
The Toyota AE86 G16E Concept was developed by Toyota Motor Corporation, featuring a three-cylinder in-line G16E engine from the GR Yaris to replace the original 4AGE engine.
The naturally aspirated (NA) engine has been retuned for a more responsive driving experience.
On the other hand, the Toyota AE86 BEV Concept offers an emission-free restomod alternative, utilizing electrification expertise from Lexus. Meanwhile, Toyota aims to integrate fun driving aspects while retaining elements such as the body shape, weight, and front/rear weight distribution ratio of the AE86.
Most importantly, this electric AE86 also retains a manual transmission option!
Lotus seems to be relentless in introducing new powerful electric models.
The latest offering from the British manufacturer is a concept model named Lotus Theory 1.
This electric supercar features dual electric motors with all-wheel drive system capable of generating 1,000 PS of power.
It accelerates from 0-100 km/h in less than 2.5 seconds, reaching a maximum speed of 320 km/h.
Its 70 kWh battery pack allows a range of 402 km on a full charge.
The carbon chassis construction also contributes to keeping the weight below 1,600 kg.
Moreover, the exterior design of the Theory 1 is said to be inspired by the S1 Esprit, showcasing sharp edges and a cab-forward shape reminiscent of the mid-engined layout of the Esprit model.
The concept model also introduces several interesting innovations.
For instance, the adaptive robotic system Lotuswear, developed in collaboration with Motorskins, provides tactile feedback to the driver through the bumps generated on the seats and the steering wheel.
Lotus Theory 1 also comes with steer-by-wire steering system, allowing the driver to customize steering ratio and response according to individual preferences.
In the center of the carbon tub, Theory 1 features a three-seater layout, where the middle seat is dedicated to the driver, while the passengers sit on the driver’s right and left.
It is equipped with a head-up display screen, along with built-in speakers integrated into the headrest structure for each seat.
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