Category Archives: NEWS

NEWS

Perodua becomes the second largest manufacturer in ASEAN for 2024

6 Comments

The year 2024 saw Perodua not only achieving the highest vehicle registration record for the local market but also successfully ranking second in the ASEAN passenger vehicle sales chart for the same year.

This announcement was shared directly by Perodua with media practitioners during the ‘Up-Close & Casual With Perodua’ event yesterday.

According to the ASEAN passenger vehicle sales data for 2024, Perodua recorded sales of 358,000 units, surpassing Honda, which is now in third place with 303,000 units.

For the record, in 2023, Perodua ranked third with total vehicle sales of 330,000 units, behind Honda’s 351,000 units and Toyota, which was first with 752,000 units.

Since its establishment, Perodua has recorded a total of 5.1 million vehicles on the road.

Among these, the Myvi remains the king of the road, with 1.487 million units, followed by the Perodua Axia (746,000 units), Perodua Kancil (709,000 units), and Perodua Alza (503,000 units).

Additionally, 2024 also saw Perodua exceeding its original production capacity of 320,000 units, with a total of 368,100 vehicles produced that year.

According to Dato’ Sri Zainal Abidin Ahmad, President and CEO of Perodua, “The record of 368,100 units was achieved by minimizing downtime according to the maintenance schedule, through dynamic coordination and planning with suppliers and distributors, and swiftly addressing challenges.”

For 2025, Perodua has allocated RM1.6 billion for model expenditure, much of which will be dedicated to factory improvements, stamping capacity upgrades, as well as new model development and tooling.

Meanwhile, Perodua anticipates a 4.9 percent decrease in production for 2025, forecasting a total of 350,000 units, along with a projected 3.7 percent reduction in registrations to 345,000 units.

“However, demand for our vehicles remains strong, with current back orders reaching 68,000 units, of which 28,000 orders have commitment letters issued without stock,” he further explained.

In terms of after-sales service, Dato’ Sri Zainal stated that the company aims to increase vehicle maintenance numbers this year to 3.7 million, representing a rise of 7.6 percent.

Perodua will also continue to support the nation’s automotive ecosystem with an estimated RM10.8 billion in local component purchases from suppliers in the country.

“2025 will be an exciting year for Perodua as we prepare the company and our strategic partners for any forthcoming changes. We believe that once these changes are complete, we will be able to strengthen our position both in this country and in the region,” he said.

EV, NEWS

Proton’s EV plant to be completed end 2025, production capacity 20,000 units annually

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.

EV, NEWS

Hyundai, TVS develop futuristic electric rickshaw concept

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.

 

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.

EV, NEWS

Xiaomi YU7 offers 760 km range, a better alternative to the Tesla Model Y?

1 Comment

A few weeks ago, Xiaomi unveiled its second electric vehicle (EV) model set to launch this year, known as the YU7.

This electric SUV is expected to pose a strong challenge to the popular Tesla Model Y.

According to data obtained from Chinese government ministry websites, the Xiaomi YU7 measures 4,999 mm in length, 1,996 mm in width, 1,600 mm in height, and has a wheelbase of 3,000 mm, making it larger than the Model Y.

The all-wheel-drive (AWD) version of the Xiaomi YU7, boasting 691 PS, will be offered with range options of 670 km, 750 km, and 760 km.

Currently, Xiaomi has not yet disclosed the range for the rear-wheel-drive (RWD) variant (320 PS) or the capacity of the NMC (nickel manganese cobalt) battery pack that will be available for each variant.

The selling price has also yet to be finalized, but local media suggest that the Xiaomi YU7 will start at around RMB 250,000 (RM 151,958), making it significantly cheaper than the Tesla Model Y, which starts at RMB 263,500 (RM 160,163).

NEWS

Helicopter caught fire during landing in Bentong, one dead

Astro Awani reports that an Indonesian national died in a helicopter accident on the Old KL-Bentong Road after being struck by the rotor blade.

According to the National Fire Operations Center, the Malaysian Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM) reported that two individuals were on board the helicopter, and the pilot was reported safe.

Based on a report from Berita Harian, the Bell 206L-4 Long Ranger transport helicopter caught fire while attempting to land, before it lost control and overturned.

The helicopter was completely engulfed in flames during the incident, which occurred at 10:39 AM, and the fire was brought under control and fully extinguished by 11:06 AM.

According to reports, the helicopter was on duty for the installation of cables for the Tenaga Nasional Berhad (TNB) project.

NEWS

Yamaha FZ mild hybrid version hits the Indian market

Unlike the electric motorcycle and scooter segment, it can be challenging to find two-wheeled machines powered by hybrid engines.

Kawasaki has previously unveiled two hybrid models, the Ninja 7 Hybrid and Z7 Hybrid.

What about Yamaha?

At the Bharat Mobility Expo 2025, which took place last month, Yamaha Motor India showcased a naked motorcycle that was once popular in Malaysia—the FZ.

More specifically, it’s the all-new Yamaha FZ-S Hybrid, powered by a single-cylinder 149 cc air-cooled engine that produces 12.4 hp and 13.3 Nm of torque.

Unlike the hybrid systems found in Kawasaki machines, the FZ-S Hybrid relies on a mild-hybrid system, where extra power is supplied by an Integrated Starter Generator (ISG).

While there is no benefit in terms of zero-emission riding, assistance from the electric motor can enhance the characteristics of the 150 cc engine to feel more like a 200 cc, especially during acceleration or when overtaking vehicles.

With this mild-hybrid system, it’s possible for the 13-liter fuel tank to achieve a riding range of over 480 km.

Other features include:

  • 41 mm front telescopic forks
  • Single shock absorber with 7-level preload adjustment
  • 17-inch alloy wheels
  • Seat height of 790 mm
  • Traction control system (TCS)
  • 282 mm front brake rotor, 220 mm rear
  • Single-channel ABS braking system

In the Indian market, the Yamaha FZ-S Hybrid is priced at INR 130,700 (approximately RM 6,600).

NEWS

2024: Top 10 most popular cars in Malaysia

Based on registration data released by the Department of Road Transport (JPJ) through the website data.gov.my, 2024 has been an excellent period for Perodua.

During this time, the brand recorded vehicle registrations totaling 358,100 units, securing the top spot once again.

In second place is Proton, with a total of 147,587 units registered, while Toyota comes in third with 127,202 units registered.

Interestingly, among the top 10 manufacturers, Chinese automotive brands have started to emerge, surpassing brands that were previously popular.

For example, Chery ranks fifth, beating out Mitsubishi and Mazda, while BYD has managed to secure the tenth position, ahead of Nissan, which ranks eleventh.

But do you know the list of the 10 most popular cars in Malaysia for 2024?

 

1. Perodua Bezza (100,814 units)

 

2. Perodua Axia (88,137 units)

 

3. Perodua Myvi (72,214 units)

 

4. Proton Saga (69,863 units)

 

5. Perodua Alza (44,374 units)

 

6. Perodua Ativa (36,039 units)

 

7. Honda City (29,246 units)

 

8. Toyota Vios (28,667 units)

 

9. Toyota Hilux (26,738 units)

 

10. Proton X50 (22,674 units)

NEWS

Honda dominates 40 percent of global motorcycle market

While the global passenger vehicle market is dominated by the industry giant Toyota, the global motorcycle segment appears to be led by Honda.

According to a report from Japan Times, Honda’s global motorcycle sales are projected to reach 20.2 million units for the fiscal year ending in March this year.

This means that Honda currently holds as much as 40 percent of the global motorcycle market share!

This development is supported by strong demand from several markets, including India, Indonesia, the Philippines, Brazil, and several countries in Central and South America.

Honda is also determined to increase its market share target to 50 percent, which will include electric motorcycles, with total sales aiming to hit 60 million units by 2030.

To achieve this, a new assembly plant dedicated to electric-powered motorcycles will be established in India and is set to begin operations in 2028.

As part of a serious drive toward electrification, the manufacturer also plans to launch up to 30 electric models in order to reach an annual sales target of four million units for electric motorcycles (EVs) by 2030.

Other initiatives in the pipeline include developing battery usage and recycling, reducing e-bike costs, ensuring that existing facilities are more environmentally friendly, and further expanding the network of existing battery-sharing and swapping stations.

To date, Honda operates 37 assembly facilities across 23 countries.

NEWS

Honda and Nissan merger may not proceed

The Asahi Shimbun reported today that the proposed merger between two major Japanese automotive companies, Nissan and Honda, may be canceled.

According to sources close to the matter, the two companies are planning to hold a meeting to discuss the cancellation of the merger negotiations.

It is understood that Honda wanted to turn Nissan into a subsidiary; however, this plan was met with strong opposition as it did not align with previous arrangements.

When the merger plan was announced at a joint press conference last December, a holding company was set to be formed to oversee both brands, which would become the third-largest automotive company in the world, following Toyota and Volkswagen

Further surprising developments have emerged just days after reports stated that Honda and Nissan aimed to postpone their merger announcement until mid-February.

Nissan is currently grappling with a restructuring effort that includes cutting up to 9,000 jobs globally.

However, the company has not provided detailed explanations of the plan to its potential business partners, and Honda’s upper management has also complained that Nissan is moving too slowly.

In a press conference last December, Nissan President Makoto Uchida emphasized that both companies would be on equal footing.

NEWS

Aprilia SR GT 200 Replica, priced at RM20,900, limited to 32 units only

Didi Group, the official distributor and importer of Aprilia motorcycles in Malaysia, held a ‘Meet & Greet’ session yesterday (February 4, 2025) with MotoGP riders Jorge Martin and Marco Bezzecchi.

The event, which took place at the RUD Karting Circuit in Sepang, also featured Massimo Rivola, the director of the Aprilia MotoGP team, and test rider Lorenzo Savadori.

At the same time, Didi Group showcased the limited edition SR GT 200 Replica, which features a striking red and purple livery inspired by the graphics on the MotoGP bikes for the 2024 season.

The basic specifications remain unchanged, including a single-cylinder 174 cc SOHC engine with liquid cooling that generates 17.4 hp and 16.5 Nm of torque.

The suspension system consists of a 33 mm front telescopic fork, supported by dual shock absorbers with preload adjustment.

Other features include 14-inch and 13-inch rims, a 220 mm front brake rotor with single-channel ABS, LED lighting, a digital meter display, 25 liters of storage space, and connectivity to smart devices via the Aprilia MIA app.

The Aprilia SR GT 200 Replica is priced at RM20,900, limited to 32 units only.

TIPS, NEWS

‘Lane hogging’ offenders can face fines up to RM2,000 – JSPT Bukit Aman

209 Comments

Many may still not be aware that driving slowly in the middle or right lanes is an action that inconveniences many other road users.

This driving attitude, known as lane hogging, can actually increase the risk of accidents.

According to a report by BuletinTV3, which cites the words of the Director of the Traffic Investigation and Enforcement Department (JSPT) Bukit Aman, Datuk Seri Mohd Yusri Hassan Basri, this lane hogging behavior is irresponsible and can be met with strict actions.

“If drivers wish to reduce their speed, they should move to the left lane to allow other drivers to continue their journey smoothly,” he said.

 

He added that fines and penalties ranging from RM300 to RM2,000 can be imposed on drivers found guilty of this offense.

This matter is further supported by a study conducted by the Malaysian Institute of Road Safety Research (MIROS), which finds that lane hogging often stems from a lack of driving discipline and awareness of the functions of each lane.

According to Senior Research Officer at MIROS, Norfaizah Mohamad Khaidir, many drivers believe they have the right to use the fast lane as long as they do not exceed the speed limit.

“When asked, Malaysians know that speeding is wrong, but many do not realize that driving slowly in the fast lane is also an offense,” she said.

NEWS

Sime Darby Auto Connexion-Ford expands dealership network in East Malaysia

Sime Darby Auto Connexion-Ford (Auto ConneXion), the sole distributor of Ford in Malaysia, has expanded its dealership network in East Malaysia through the opening of two new service-only facilities in Kapit and Mukah.

According to the company, the network expansion is in tandem with creating accessible quality service and products for the growing customer base in East Malaysia.

With the opening of these two new service centres, there are currently 11 dealers ready to serve the rising demand in Sabah and Sarawak.

The current dealerships in Sarawak include Kuching (SDAC), Sibu (Ngu Brothers), Miri (ALV Brothers), Bintulu (Ngu Brothers), Kota Samarahan (Jimisar Motors) and two service only centres in Kapit and Mukah.

While in Sabah, there are two dealerships in Kota Kinabalu (Boston Auto and Rightpower Corporation), Sandakan (Boston Auto) and Tawau (TB Automotive).

With the comprehensive network of dealers and dedicated service-only centres across East Malaysia, Ford customers both in and out of town areas are now closer to convenient and reliable services.

Turse Zuhair, Managing Director, SDAC said, “East Malaysia continues to be a major growing market for Auto ConneXion, as evidenced by the strong and consistent demand in 2024. Driven by this, we continuously improve our services and accessibility touch points to effectively meet the needs of our increasing customer base.”

Customers are welcome to visit these new dealerships to explore Ford’s latest offerings, which include savings of up to RM8,000 or 5 Years Ford Blue Oval Service Plan, plus savings up to RM2,000.

To elevate the ownership experience, Ford Motorcraft Genuine Parts are available across all authorised Ford dealers in East Malaysia at a competitive price.

NEWS

Op Selamat: Police issue over 100,000 summonses in five days

A total of 104,234 summonses for various offences were issued during Op Selamat 23/2025, which took place over five days in conjunction with the Chinese New Year celebrations.

According to the Director of the Traffic Investigation and Enforcement Department (JSPT), Datuk Sri Mohd Yusri Hassan Basri, the figure reflects a decrease of 43% (or 78,798 summonses) compared to the 183,033 summonses recorded during Op Selamat 21/2024.

He stated that there are six main offences for Op Selamat 23/2025: speeding, driving in emergency lanes, overtaking on double lines, queue jumping, running red lights, and using mobile devices while driving.

Of these, speeding led the six main offences for Op Selamat 23/2025 up to yesterday, with the highest number of summonses issued at 44,940.

“This was followed by 2,034 summonses for running red lights, 869 for using mobile devices, 602 for driving in emergency lanes, 573 for queue jumping, and 321 for overtaking on double lines,” he said.

Mohd Yusri added that Op Selamat 23/2025, which was launched on 28 January, will conclude today (February 2) with the aim of minimising road traffic accidents and ensuring smooth traffic flow, as well as preventing house burglary during the festive season.

He noted that the implementation of Op Selamat 23 is coordinated by the JSPT nationwide and involves collaboration with the Crime Prevention and Community Safety Department (JPJKK) to align the operations under the theme ‘Rumah Selamat, Selamat Sampai ke Destinasi’.

“For this Op Selamat, JSPT has assigned 3,609 officers and personnel to ensure the smooth execution of the operation and to achieve its objectives,” he added.

EV, NEWS

2025 BYD Atto 3 spotted in China with new look, upgraded ADAS

The 2025 model year BYD Atto 3 has been spotted undergoing road tests in China, where it is sold as the Yuan Plus.

According to CarNewsChina, the new Atto 3 will feature an updated exterior and advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS). It is expected to be launched in the country around the second quarter of this year.

This is not the first time the world has seen the 2025 Atto 3 – the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology of China had previously revealed the full design of the electric SUV, which is why only a small portion of the car remains covered in camouflage.

As can be seen, the Atto 3 now boasts a fresher front fascia thanks to a sportier bumper design and larger trapezoidal air intakes.

The side profile showcases new chrome trim on the C-pillars and the lower body. At the rear, the bumper has been given a redesign to keep it fresh but what stands out more is the new roof spoiler that incorporates a pair of vertical brake lights.

For 2025, the Atto 3 will be available in a new shade of beige while existing colour options—including white, black, purple, blue, green, and grey—are expected to be retained.

Additionally, the new Atto 3 appears to have a new camera on the front bumper, indicating that its ADAS has been enhanced.

There are no changes to the powertrain. In Malaysia, the Atto 3 is available in a single Extended Range variant equipped with a front axle electric motor producing 204 PS/310 Nm, and a Blade LFP battery with a capacity of 60.48 kWh, offering a range of up to 480 km (NEDC).

NEWS

Dacia Sandero is the best-selling car in Europe for 2024

Do you know which car was the best-selling in Europe for the year 2024?

It is neither a Japanese car nor a German compact car, but rather a vehicle from Romania.

More specifically, it is the Dacia Sandero (“good news!” as James May would say).

According to data from industry analyst Jato Dynamics, a total of 268,101 units of the Dacia Sandero were registered in Europe over the past year.

In second place is the Renault Clio, with a difference of over 50,000 units compared to the Dacia Sandero, followed by the Volkswagen Golf, which had 215,715 units sold.

Sales of the most popular model in 2023, the Tesla Model Y, fell by 17 percent to 209,214 units; however, it remains the leader in the category of the most popular electric vehicles.

Speaking of EVs, the market share for these zero-emission vehicles decreased from 15.7 percent in 2023 to 15.4 percent last year, while the percentage for petrol engine models increased from 47.8 percent to 48.4 percent.

The decline in EV sales is attributed to the withdrawal of incentives and the average selling price still being high and unaffordable, according to Jato Dynamics’ analysis.

Meanwhile, demand for hybrid vehicles increased from 9.9 percent to 11.8 percent, while plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) accounted for only 7.3 percent (down from 7.7 percent).

NEWS

Waiting time for the newly launched Jimny Nomade in Japan now hits 3.5 years!

The Suzuki Jimny Nomade, or more precisely, the more practical 5-door Jimny, has just been officially launched for the Japanese market.

However, within just four days, the demand has been overwhelming, with 50,000 orders already recorded.

This situation has forced Suzuki Japan to temporarily close the order books for this model.

In a message posted on the official website, Suzuki apologized for the inconvenience faced by customers wishing to order the Suzuki Jimny Nomade.

“The (Suzuki) Jimny Nomade has received a very positive response, and we have received orders that far exceed the production capacity.”

“As a result, we will temporarily close the order books and will update when orders can be reopened, taking into account future production circumstances.”

The high popularity among Japanese buyers is due to the 5-door Jimny’s offering, which is significantly more practical.

The addition of two extra passenger doors and a longer wheelbase creates a more spacious cabin, which is beneficial for family activities, unlike the Jimny (kei car) and Jimny Sierra, without compromising the off-road driving advantages that are synonymous with the Jimny name.

It is worth noting that, unlike the 3-door Suzuki Jimny produced in Japan, the Suzuki Jimny 5-door (including units that have already arrived in Malaysia) is built at the Gurugram factory located in India.

With production limited to 1,200 units for the Japanese market, the wait time now reaches up to three and a half years!

The first deliveries of the Suzuki Jimny Nomade in Japan will take place on April 3.

Due to the extremely encouraging demand, Suzuki has also had to cancel all planned exhibition events for the Suzuki Nomade in Japan.

NEWS

Exceptional accounting student killed in six-vehicle crash

An exceptional accounting student was killed in an accident involving six vehicles on the Hulu Langat – Ampang road on Sunday.

According to the District Police Chief of Kajang, Assistant Commissioner Naazron Abdul Yusof, the accident, which involved four motorcycles and two cars, occurred at 4:45 PM.

At the time of the incident, four motorcycles were carrying six individuals, including two passengers, while a car was travelling from Hulu Langat towards Ampang.

“A Perodua Alza coming from the direction of Ampang veered into the opposite lane and collided with all five vehicles, causing one of the motorcyclists to be thrown off and fall by the roadside.

“As a result of the accident, a 20-year-old man riding a motorcycle was pronounced dead at the scene.

“Five other motorcyclists and passengers were injured and taken to Ampang Hospital for treatment,” he stated.

He added that the drivers of both cars were uninjured. All individuals involved in the accident were aged between 17 and 38.

“At present, we are conducting further investigations into how the Perodua Alza ended up in the opposite lane.

“The vehicles involved will be sent for inspection at the PUSPAKOM and the Department of Chemistry for further investigation,” he said.

Naazron noted that the driver of the Perodua Alza, a 27-year-old man, has been detained and will be remanded today, with the case being investigated under Section 41(1) of the Road Transport Act 1987.

“Members of the public who have information regarding the incident can contact the investigating officer, Inspector Narolhisyam Endi, at 019-5897115,” he added.

For the information of readers, the late Aysar Zahran bin Saiful Alimin, who tragically lost his life in this accident, was a former student of the Sekolah Menengah Sains Hulu Selangor (SEMASHUR).

Members of the public wishing to make a contribution may do so via the following account:

Maybank
Semashur Alumni Association
Account No.: 564397202247
REF: Aysar Zahran 1822

The fundraising will close on:

Friday, 7 February 2025
6 PM

NEWS

Terengganu police seize 11 Yamaha RX-Z motorcycles smuggled from Thailand

The Terengganu Police has thwarted a smuggling operation involving Yamaha RX-Z motorcycles following the arrest of a man in Kampung Padang Luas, Jertih, Besut on Saturday.

According to Terengganu police chief Datuk Mohd Khairi Khairudin, the smuggling operation was uncovered during an inspection of a house that had been converted into a workshop.

He stated that the seizure was carried out by the Terengganu Criminal Investigation Department (JSJ) following a police report made previously.

“Inspecting the workshop, which was also observed by the suspect, uncovered 11 Yamaha RX-Z motorcycles, four chassis, and six engine components of unspecified motorcycle types.

“We believe that all these items were brought in from Thailand without valid documentation,” he said.

He added that the 41-year-old suspect, who hails from Jertih and claimed to be the owner of the house, was arrested on the same day.

“The suspect has three previous criminal records under Section 365 of the Penal Code, Section 29 (1) of the Minor Offences Act, and Section 61 (1) of the Special Prevention Measures Act (LLPK).

“Investigations revealed that the suspect admitted to being involved in the case under investigation, while a urine screening test conducted on him returned negative results,” he said.

NEWS

Honda, Nissan postpone announcement of merger plan until mid-February

Japan Today reported yesterday (February 2) that Honda and Nissan will announce their merger plan in mid-February.

According to the original plan, the second and third largest automotive manufacturers intended to make the announcement by the end of January.

During a press conference held last month, both parties agreed to start discussions to form a new company by 2026.

Honda’s CEO, Toshihiro Mibe, stated that they expect Nissan to take appropriate actions in restructuring as a prerequisite for the merger.

In November, Nissan announced a reduction of up to 9,000 jobs worldwide and a 20 percent cut in global production capacity after the company reported a profit decline of over 90 percent for the period from April to September.

As part of its restructuring efforts, Nissan is also planning to offer early retirement programs for workers at three plants in the United States and to reduce the workforce in Thailand.

Honda appears to be somewhat skeptical and is calling for more drastic measures to ensure Nissan’s successful recovery.

According to another source, Nissan’s alliance partner, Mitsubishi, is less inclined to join the new merged entity.

NEWS

Three body kits from DAMD for the Jimny Nomade, inspired by the Defender, G-Wagen

In conjunction with the launch of the Suzuki Jimny Nomade (5-door) for the Japanese market, tuning company DAMD is offering up to three body kit packages to customize the off-road SUV.

Owners of the 5-door Suzuki Jimny in Japan can choose to customize their vehicles with the “little D,” “little G. ADVANCE,” and “little G. TRADITIONAL” body kits.

The “little D” kit features a new front and rear bumper, as well as lighting units that are clearly inspired by the classic Land Rover Defender.

For those who desire the G-Wagen look, there are two body kit options available.

The “little G. TRADITIONAL” presents an exterior appearance resembling that of the earliest generation Mercedes-Benz G-Wagen, complete with a new front grille structure and wider fender flares.

Owners who want a more modern and sporty G-Wagen image can opt for the “little G. ADVANCED,” which comes with city-appropriate tires, a front fascia similar to that of the G63 AMG, turn signal lights mounted on the engine hood, and a more compact rear spare tire cover.

According to a report from Response.jp, DAMD has already begun the development project for all three body kits for the Suzuki Jimny Nomade, aiming for a launch within this year.