Edaran Tan Chong Motors Sdn Bhd has extended its Early Bird promotion for the all-new Nissan Kicks e-Power, which is now available to the first 1,000 customers.
The Early Bird promotion offers an introductory discount of RM5,000, as well as a ten-year guarantee on EV components or a mileage limit of 160,000 km.
With this rebate, the selling price of the Kicks e-Power starts at RM108,800 for the VL variant, RM116,800 for the VLT variant, and RM120,800 for the two-tone VLT variant.
The Nissan Kicks e-Power was officially launched this month, powered by a second-generation e-Power system that combines a 1.2-liter three-cylinder inline engine, which acts solely as a power generator, with an electric motor and a 2.1 kWh lithium-ion battery.
Overall, the Kicks e-Power is capable of producing up to 129 PS and 280 Nm of torque, promising immediate torque response and smooth acceleration.
On a full tank, the Kicks e-Power can travel up to 900 km, with a fuel consumption figure of approximately 21.7 km/liter.
In June, the Malaysian government implemented diesel subsidy rationalisation as part of its efforts to curb rampant leakages.
However, the move appears to have had negative repercussions for petrol station operators in Peninsular Malaysia, who claim to have incurred losses amounting to RM181 million since its implementation.
According to Bumiputera Petrol Station Operators Association of Malaysia (Bumipeda) honorary secretary Hanny Julia Haron, nearly 3,500 petrol stations are now at a critical level, having sustained losses almost every month.
She added that the situation arose as operators were forced to purchase fuel at high prices and sell it at lower prices.
“About 98.3 per cent of these stations have reported losses from petrol and diesel sales, causing many operators to shift towards convenience store sales as a strategy to offset the decline in fuel revenue.
“Without intervention, the long-term economic impact could be severe, potentially increasing unemployment rates and reducing government revenue from taxes and levies due to the closure of stations or a reduction in operations,” she stated.
Earlier this month, Deputy Finance Minister Lim Hui Ying revealed that the targeted diesel subsidy initiated in June this year has allowed the government to generate savings of RM600 million per month.
Due to a slowdown in global demand for electric vehicles (EVs), Honda has decided to refocus its efforts on the production of hybrid engines.
Recently, Honda has reportedly been developing several new generation e:HEV technologies for use in upcoming electric hybrid vehicles.
1. New 1.5L & 2.0L Engines
Both the new 1.5-liter and 2.0-liter Atkinson cycle engines will be paired with a front-wheel drive unit and integrated cooling system in a more compact package.
Honda aims for the new engine’s fuel consumption to be 10 percent more efficient when combined with a new generation midsize platform currently under development.
By extending the RPM range where the engine operates most efficiently, the new 1.5-liter engine can achieve fuel savings that are 40 percent better compared to the existing 1.5L engine.
Both engines will share the same hybrid components to reduce manufacturing costs.
2. New Mid-size Platform
In addition to the e:HEV system, Honda will also be refreshing its midsize platform for their electric hybrid vehicles.
This modular platform promises high chassis stability, sporty driving dynamics, and an overall weight that is 10 percent lighter compared to existing e:HEV models.
Additionally, Honda aims to develop the lightest platform in its class, reducing weight by 90 kg compared to the existing platform through a new design approach.
Achieving over 60 percent commonality across all midsize models will contribute to more efficient and cost-effective production of various models.
3. Honda S+ Shift
Honda S+ Shift is a new function introduced to enhance the driving pleasure and amplifies the sense of oneness between the driver and the vehicle.
According to Honda, S+ Shift precisely controls engine RPM during acceleration and deceleration to realize direct driving response and accurate gear shifting.
The resulting engine sound will be synchronized with the Active Sound Control (ASC) system, where the sound quality will be enhanced through speakers to further enrich the exciting driving experience.
4. Electric AWD System
Starting with the new generation e:HEV models, Honda will employ an electric all-wheel drive (AWD) system (E-AWD).
Compared to mechanical AWD systems, E-AWD can increase maximum traction and contribute to more powerful initial acceleration performance.
The E-AWD system can also optimize the distribution of front-to-rear driving energy based on tire-ground contact during acceleration, deceleration, and cornering.
Interestingly, the e-AWD system can also be shared with any EV.
With this new technology, Honda is determined to reduce production costs for each electric hybrid model by up to 50 percent for the 2027 model year, compared to similar models launched in 2018.
Malaysia Rail Link Sdn Bhd, the operator of the East Coast Rail Link (ECRL) project, yesterday (18th December) unveiled the design of the EMU (Electric Multiple Unit) trains that will connect Port Klang to the East Coast.
These EMU trains, manufactured by China Railway Rolling Stock Corp (CRRC) Dalian, feature six carriages with a passenger capacity of 430 people at any given time.
The trains also include facilities for passengers with disabilities, a prayer room, and designated areas for ablution.
In terms of external design, the EMU trains showcase a two-tone theme of white and blue, complete with a wau motif that is closely associated with the East Coast states.
According to Anthony Loke, a total of 11 six-car EMU trains have been allocated for operations, with the first set expected to arrive by the end of 2025.
In addition to the EMU trains, the ECRL project will also acquire 12 sets of E-Loco units from CRRC Dalian for cargo transport, with the first set also slated to arrive in Malaysia by the end of next year.
The ECRL project, which is set to commence operations in 2027, will feature 20 stations, comprising 14 passenger stations, 5 combined stations, and one freight station.
Suzuki has introduced the Swift Sport Final Edition, which, like the name suggests, is the final iteration of the ZC33S generation model, which has been on the market for seven years now.
According to the company, the new model will be offered in a limited number and will be sold solely in the Japanese domestic market. That said, there’s a good possibility that the car will arrive on our shores through grey importers.
What distinguishes the Swift Sport Final Edition from the standard version? On the exterior, the limited-run model stands out with glossy black finish on the grille, 17-inch black alloy wheels, red brake calipers, black and red Sport emblem on the tailgate, and special graphics on the C-pillar.
While the interior may appear similar to the standard version, the Final Edition actually receives several fresh touches, including aluminium-like trim with a heat gradation effect on the dashboard, door panels, and centre console.
Additionally, you will find the “Sport” lettering on the passenger side and “ZC33S Powered by Suzuki” near the gear lever. Bucket seats, aluminium pedals, and red stitching are retained from the standard model.
And if these are not enough, customers can deck out the car’s overall look with various exclusive accessories from Suzuki, including aero elements, additional decals, headlamp garnish, and much more.
While the Swift Sport Final Edition may have a more aggressive appearance, unfortunately, there are no mechanical changes to this model.
The task of powering this hatchback is still handled by the 1.4-litre four-cylinder Boosterjet turbo engine, which produces 140 PS and 230 Nm of torque. Customers can choose between a six-speed automatic transmission or a six-speed manual transmission.
Suzuki says the Swift Sport Final Edition will be produced from March to November 2025, following the cessation of production for the standard version in February. The retail prices start at 2,329,800 yen (RM67,646) for the manual version and 2,401,300 yen (RM69,707) for the automatic.
Auto Bavaria has announced a strategic collaboration with Affin Group to enhance electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure in the country.
This partnership aligns with both organisations’ environmental, social and governance (ESG) goals aimed at fostering more responsible mobility solutions.
Through this collaboration, Auto Bavaria, the authorised dealer for BMW, is set to accelerate the availability and accessibility of EV charging facilities across the region.
The company’s efforts began with the installation of seven AC charging units and one DC charging unit at the EV charging station at Menara Affin in Tun Razak Exchange, which serves as Malaysia’s International Financial Centre.
Vi Thim Juan, Managing Director of Auto Bavaria, stated, “This partnership with Affin underscores our dedication to enhancing EV infrastructure development and supporting Malaysia’s shift towards a low-carbon economy.
“Together, we are empowering drivers to make responsible mobility choices and contribute to a lower carbon footprint in their automotive ownership needs.”
Datuk Wan Razly Abdullah, President & Chief Executive Officer of Affin Bank Berhad, added, “Our collaboration reaffirms Affin’s unwavering commitment to our ESG agenda, creating a positive impact for the future while providing a seamless and convenient customer experience.
“This initiative aligns with the ‘Unrivalled Customer Service’ and ‘Responsible Banking with Impact’ pillars of our AX28 Strategic Plan,” he said.
Wan Razly further stated that customers can explore Affin’s range of EV offers, including tailored financing options designed to simplify the purchase journey and enhance affordability.
The just-launched Proton eMAS 7 will be entering the Singaporean market through VinCar Group as the EV’s the official distributor.
In a Facebook post, VinCar Pte Ltd confirmed that the e.MAS 7 will be launched in the republic in early 2025. The company also stated that it will open a flagship showroom located at Leng Kee Automotive Belt.
For its home market, the eMAS 7 is offered in two variants, namely Prime and Premium. Both are powered by a “12-in-1” electric motor at the front axle, producing 218 PS (160 kW) and 320 Nm of torque, enabling it to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 6.9 seconds and reach a top speed of 175 km/h.
The main difference between the Prime and Premium variants lies in their battery capacity. The Prime variant comes with a 49.52 kWh battery, promising a driving range of 345 km on a full charge, while the Premium variant can travel up to 410 km thanks to its 60.22 kWh battery.
The eMAS 7 is equipped with Geely’s new Aegis short blade LFP battery, which is said to offer higher energy density, improved safety, and longer lifespan.
The battery supports DC fast charging with up to 80 kW for the Prime variant and 100 kW for the Premium variant, with both requiring 20 minutes to charge from 30% to 80%.
Prices start at RM109,800 for the Prime variant and RM123,800 for the Premium variant. However, in conjunction with the launch, Proton is offering a rebate of RM4,000 to the first 3,000 customers.
DRB-HICOM Berhad and Zhejiang Geely Holding Group have signed two agreements to develop the Automotive Hi-Tech Valley (AHTV) in Tanjong Malim, Perak, into a global hub for Next Generation Vehicles (NxGV) and Energy Efficient Vehicles (EEV).
The first agreement signed with the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA), will focus on cooperation to attract investments specifically for the development of AHTV, with the aim of fostering growth, capabilities, and competitiveness in the national automotive industry.
The key focus of this cooperation is to encourage the transformation of the local automotive industry and Industry 4.0 to help Malaysia become a leading country for EEVs in ASEAN.
It also aims to transform AHTV into a global automotive hub, focusing on the production of NxGVs, smart manufacturing of high-tech automotive components, and an export base for a comprehensive global supply chain for vehicles and spare parts.
The second agreement made with the Malaysia Automotive, Robotics and IoT Institute (MARii), will concentrate on collaboration in research and development (R&D) and talent development for AHTV.
The scope of cooperation includes building testing and R&D centers for NxGVs, as well as establishing a National Testing and Homologation Centre specifically for EEV testing and autonomous driving.
Additionally, the parties involved have agreed to develop local expertise in critical components such as electric motors, battery management systems, and power distribution units with assistance from Geely Holding.
In the area of talent development, the collaboration will also include developing training programs focusing on NxGV and smart manufacturing, R&D, smart equipment, and production and marketing services supported by partnerships with institutions in China and Malaysia.
This includes establishing national standards for automotive SKM and TVET certification, implementing an automotive apprenticeship program, creating educational modules for high school through university levels, and conducting certification programs for digitalization and Industry 4.0 skills in manufacturing and supply chains.
The Toyota Hilux Champ is a budget version of the truck produced by Toyota as a more affordable alternative to the mid-size Hilux pickup.
In addition to serving as a workhorse, the Hilux Champ also has the potential to function as a passenger vehicle — providing an alternative to the Toyota Fortuner.
In Indonesia, the Hilux Rangga (another name for the Hilux Champ) will be officially offered by Toyota Astra Motor in an SUV version, featuring a three-row, seven-seat configuration.
Source: Indra Fathan Instagram
The construction of the body for this new SUV will be handled by New Armada.
It can be said that the front section of this SUV still retains the original design of the Hilux Rangga; however, everything changes from the B-pillar backward.
Angular design elements dominate the sides and rear of the Hilux Rangga SUV, and if you notice, the roof structure is higher compared to the Hilux Rangga pickup version.
At the rear, the word “RANGGA” appears on the tailgate, accompanied by more basic-design rear lights.
Source: Indra Fathan Instagram
The interior of the Rangga SUV features a 2+3+2 seating arrangement upholstered in leather-like material.
Due to the presence of a third-row seat, the cargo space is somewhat limited, even though the overall size is larger than the pickup version.
The Rangga SUV model is set to go on sale in Indonesia next year, with an estimated starting price below Rp 400,000,000 (approximately RM 111,000).
For comparison, the cheapest Hilux Rangga pickup carries a price tag of Rp 188,700,000 (approximately RM 53,000), while the larger Toyota Fortuner is priced from Rp 573,700,000 (approximately RM 160,000).
Honda has previously confirmed that the upcoming concept model Prelude will be built using the existing Civic platform.
Now, there is good news coming from Japan, where a group of Japanese media representatives were given the opportunity to test a pre-production prototype unit on a test circuit.
This test drive session revealed several interesting details to share with readers, especially for those who got a closer look at the model during the KLIMS 2024 event held last few weeks.
The prototype model, still heavily camouflaged, showed few significant differences, apart from the presence of ADAS sensors and more practical-sized side mirrors.
Here are the new features expected to appear on the Honda Prelude 2026:
1. New generation hybrid system
Interestingly, the Honda Prelude will be the first model equipped with a new generation dual-motor hybrid system.
No further details have been announced at this time, but Honda claims that this new setup promises a 10 percent efficiency improvement over the existing e:HEV system without compromising power.
It is highly likely that the Prelude will feature an all-new 2.0-liter Atkinson cycle engine paired with a new, more compact, and efficient electric drive unit.
Typical for a hybrid car, you can expect the Prelude to come with a simpler e-CVT transmission, but it will also include a new feature dubbed S+ Shift.
2. Honda S+ Shift system
source: LOVECARS!TV! YouTube
Set to be included in all future e:HEV Honda models, the S+ Shift system promises a more dynamic and exciting driving experience.
By pressing a special button, it will simulate gear shifting through small vibrations when downshifting, thanks to altered torque mapping in the electric drive unit.
The Active Sound Control feature will enhance the sporty engine sound through audio feedback provided by the speaker unit, synchronized with the RPM display on the digital cluster.
The Honda Prelude 2026 is also equipped with paddle shifters, allowing drivers to experience simulated gear changes in a hybrid vehicle.
3. Civic platform
source: LOVECARS!TV! YouTube
As previously announced, the Honda Prelude will utilize the existing Civic platform but with a stiffer chassis, improved steering stability, and, most importantly, 10 percent less weight.
Unlike the Civic, the Prelude has a shorter wheelbase but a wider track width.
The suspension system has also been recalibrated for a sportier and more comfortable ride akin to a GT.
The YouTube channel Ride Now reports that the Prelude will feature an adaptive suspension system and a dual-axis steering system from the Civic Type R, designed to reduce torque steer effects.
4. Interior space
source: LOVECARS!TV! YouTube
Stepping inside the cabin, you will notice a dashboard layout that closely resembles that of the current Civic model, but it has been refined with a taller center console design, featuring new control buttons for gear shifting, as well as the S+ Shift button.
For the driver and front passenger, the Prelude offers sporty bucket seats, complete with contrasting white and blue stitching.
The coupe design with a lower roofline and shorter wheelbase makes the headroom and legroom in the Prelude seem smaller and more cramped compared to the Honda Civic, especially for rear passengers.
5. What do Japanese media say?
Overall, the feedback received from the test drive session conducted in Japan is quite positive.
Some claimed that the Prelude promises a sportier drive compared to the Civic (hopefully not just the Civic Type R), while remaining smooth and comfortable like a GT.
One test driver mentioned that the steering and adaptive suspension setup of the Prelude reminded him of the Civic Type R.
Another media outlet revealed that the Prelude offers smooth and linear stopping power, thanks to Brembo brake systems behind the 19-inch black rims and Continental Premium Contact 6 tires.
This all-new Honda Prelude is set to be launched in 2025 and will serve as a replacement for the discontinued Civic and Accord coupe models.
We expect the Prelude 2026 to make its official debut at the 2025 Tokyo Auto Salon, scheduled for January 10-12 next year.
PLUS Malaysia Berhad (PLUS) has stated that it expects a 14% increase in traffic volume on its expressways, with the number of vehicles reaching 2.12 million per day compared to 1.85 million on normal days during the Christmas and year-end holidays from December 20 to January 2 next year.
In light of this, PLUS advises highway users to plan their journeys in advance and to obtain their digital travel itinerary via MyPLUS-TTA.
“This digital travel schedule aims to make it easier for people to plan their journey, as well as help distribute traffic for a smoother and more comfortable journey.
“It is also to prevent vehicles from accumulating in one location on the highway at the same time and possibly getting stuck in traffic,” the statement reads.
Alternatively, highway users can also access the latest traffic information through the Virtual Assistant – PUTRI, the X@plustrafik app, electronic signboards (VMS) at selected locations, or through major national radio station channels.
“The public can also contact the PLUSLine at 1800-88-0000 if they require assistance in case of an emergency. We also recommend using the PLUS app, Waze, or Google Maps to plan and check the current traffic status during this festive season,” it added.
EP Manufacturing Berhad (EPMB) recently celebrated an important milestone with the production of its 1,000th vehicle at the Pegoh assembly plant in Melaka.
According to Mr. Hamidon Abdullah, the Executive Chairman of EPMB, “Today marks the beginning of a new era for EPMB. Reflecting on the challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic, we remained resilient and are now building a solid foundation for the future.
“The first phase of the vehicle assembly plant in Pegoh, Melaka, is a testament to our vision. Our collaboration with GWM has achieved significant success, and this momentum will continue as we prepare to assemble additional GWM models.
“We expect the capacity of Phase 1 to be fully utilized by the end of 2025. For Phase 2, production capacity will be enhanced by an additional 30,000 units per year, while Phase 3 will focus on vehicle body manufacturing and painting processes.”
It is understood that EPMB plans to assemble several GWM models, including the Jolion HEV (Q2 2025) and Wey 80 (Q4 2025), as well as two BAIC models, the Beijing X55 and BJ40 (Q1 2025).
The plant, located in Alor Gajah, has an annual production capacity of 15,000 units and a workforce of 160 employees.
EPMB is also prioritizing the localization of vehicle components to strengthen the local automotive industry.
Through facilities in Kulim, Tanjung Malim, Batang Kali, Shah Alam, and Melaka, EPMB has begun the localization of essential components for GWM vehicles, including seats, steering column frames, rear axles, suspension systems, brakes, instrument panels, center consoles, and door trim panels.
Coinciding with the official launch of the Proton e.MAS 7 electric SUV in the Malaysian market, the ASEAN NCAP organization also announced the score achieved by this SUV in the new vehicle assessment tests that were conducted.
Overall, the e.MAS 7 successfully earned a five-star score with a total of 92.57 points.
As Proton’s first electric vehicle, it was evaluated based on the following four categories:
Adult Occupant Protection (AOP) – 39.00/40.00
Child Occupant Protection (COP) – 17.32/20.00
Safety Assistance (SA) – 20.00/20.00
Motorcycle Safety (MS) – 16.25/20.00
Standard features of the e.MAS 7 include six airbags, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), and Seat Belt Reminder (SBR).
Advanced safety features included are city and inter-urban Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB), Blind Spot Detection (BSD), High Beam Assist (HBA), Forward Collision Warning (FCW), Lane Keeping Assistance (LKA), Lane Departure Warning (LDW), Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA), and Rear Cross Traffic Braking (RCTB).
The Proton e.MAS 7 is equipped with a single electric motor that produces 218 PS/320 Nm, paired with two options for LFP battery packs: 49.52 kWh (with a range of 345 km) or 60.22 kWh (with a range of 410 km).
The selling price of the e.MAS 7 starts at RM105,800 for a limited time.
After several rounds of previews including test drives, Proton through its Pro-Net division has officially launched the first electric SUV, the e.MAS 7, for the local market.
Here are seven key facts you should know:
1. Dimensions
The Proton e.MAS 7 is an electric SUV in the C-segment, measuring 4,615 mm in length, 1,901 mm in width, 1,670 mm in height, and with a wheelbase of 2,750 mm.
Its turning radius is a compact 5.4 meters.
Standard features include a MacPherson strut setup at the front, complemented by a multilink configuration at the rear.
2. Power
The e.MAS 7 is powered by a single electric motor delivering 215 hp and 320 Nm of torque.
It can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 6.9 seconds, reaching a top speed of 175 km/h.
3. Two Battery Pack Options
For the local market, the Proton e.MAS 7 is available in two variants: Prime and Premium.
The Prime variant comes equipped with an LFP battery pack of 49.52 kWh, allowing a range of 345 km on a full charge (WLTP data), while the Premium variant features a 60.22 kWh battery pack with a range of 410 km.
This short blade Aegis battery supports AC charging at 11 kW and DC fast charging at 100 kW (80 kW for the smaller capacity battery), enabling the battery to be charged from 30% to 80% in just 20 minutes.
4. Exterior Features
Proton has made few changes to differentiate the e.MAS 7 from its donor model, the Geely Galaxy E5.
Standard exterior features of this electric SUV include LED headlights and taillights, 18-inch alloy wheels with 225/55 R18 tires, roof rails, and adjustable side mirrors with a heating function.
The Premium variant adds features such as a panoramic glass roof, powered tailgate, and Active Grille Shutter functionality.
5. Cabin Space
Similar to the exterior, the interior equipment closely resembles that of the Geely model.
Inside, you will find features such as a 10.2-inch digital cluster display, a central 15.4-inch screen without Apple CarPlay or Android Auto support, a Flyme OS system, and a head-up display.
Additionally, the e.MAS 7 offers a six-way adjustable driver’s seat (four-way for the front passenger), ventilation functions, leatherette upholstery, ambient lighting with 256 color options, and several USB charging ports.
In the rear, the e.MAS 7 provides cargo space of 461 liters, which expands to 1,877 liters with the second-row seats folded down.
There is also 14 liters of storage space under the seats and a 10.8-liter center console drawer.
6. ADAS
For the first time, Proton offers Level 2 Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) as standard across all e.MAS 7 variants.
This includes essential features such as an Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) system, Forward Collision Warning (FCW), Lane Departure Warning (LDW), Lane Keeping Assist (LKA), Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA), Lane Change Assist (LCA), and Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC).
Additionally, the e.MAS 7 comes equipped with six airbags, an auto hold function, front and rear radar, and a 360-degree camera system.
7. Pricing
The retail prices for the Proton e.MAS 7 are as follows:
e.MAS 7 Prime – RM109,800
e.MAS 7 Premium – RM123,800
For the first 3,000 customers, Proton is offering a rebate promotion worth RM4,000, bringing the starting price down to RM105,800 for the Prime variant, and up to RM119,800 for the Premium variant.
Here are the packages that buyers of the Proton e.MAS 7 will receive:
A 7kW home charging unit (valued at RM1,500)
V2L adapter (valued at RM500)
Financing package with interest rates starting as low as 1.98% (valued at RM3,000)
Unlimited internet data package for five years (valued at RM1,800)
RM1,200 rebate for existing Proton owners
Vehicle warranty of six years with no mileage limit, and a warranty for the high-voltage battery components of up to eight years or 160,000 km.
The Minister of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living, Datuk Armizan Mohd Ali said that eligible individuals, small-scale companies, or organisations may apply for a special permit for the purchase of diesel exceeding the standard limit.
Armizan added that the special permit is solely for authorised uses and not for resale purposes.
“Applicants must submit a letter of confirmation from the relevant agency and apply through the Special Permit System available on the KPDN (Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living) portal.
“This includes agricultural and livestock purposes, with a quantity limit not exceeding 200 litres per day for purchases at petrol stations,” he said.
He noted that this facility has been outlined in the Guidelines for the Application of Controlled Goods Permits and Special Permits, which are administered under the authority of the Control of Supplies Act (Amendment) 2021.
Didi Group, the official distributor and importer of Aprilia in Malaysia, has announced an exclusive sales campaign for the Aprilia SR GT 200.
Beginning in December 2024, while stocks last, the campaign offers exclusive cash rebates for all three variants of the SR GT 200: standard, Sport, and Replica.
The standard variant is priced at RM19,900 and comes with a cash rebate of RM6,000, while the Sport variant, priced at RM20,900, is offered with a cash rebate of RM5,000.
Meanwhile, the SR GT 200 Replica, also priced at RM20,900, is available with a cash rebate of RM2,000.
More than just a scooter, the SR GT 200 combines a design inspired by Aprilia’s racing DNA with an ergonomic layout for rider comfort.
It is powered by a 174 cc SOHC i-get engine with liquid cooling and fuel injection, producing 17.4hp and 16.5Nm of torque. Power is transmitted through a CVT transmission.
It features fully LED front and rear lights, a digital instrument panel, a USB charger, 25 litres of under-seat storage, and smartphone connectivity via the Aprilia MIA app.
For the suspension system, it utilises a 33 mm telescopic fork at the front and dual shock absorbers at the rear, with the latter featuring pre-load adjustment.
The braking system consists of 220 mm discs at both the front and rear, although ABS is only available for the front tyre. The rims are 14 inches in diameter at the front and 13 inches at the rear, fitted with tyres sized 110/80 and 130/70, respectively.
Three years after the concept model was introduced, Renault has finally unveiled the actual production version of the R5 Turbo 3E, which will be available for purchase by the public.
Built on a bespoke carbon fiber monocoque platform, the R5 Turbo 3E is a hot hatch that does not feature a turbocharger, following in the footsteps of the Porsche Taycan.
Instead, it is powered by two electric motors positioned on the rear axle, producing an impressive 500 hp!
With its lightweight platform and powerful electric motors, the R5 Turbo 3E promises acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in under 3.5 seconds.
In terms of exterior design, the R5 Turbo 3E incorporates elements inspired by the classic R5 Turbo I and II rally cars from the 1980s, featuring angular wide fender flares and a more aggressive rear bumper.
The LED headlights present a more streamlined appearance, reminiscent of the classic R5 lights but modernized, while the LED taillights are borrowed from the R5 E-Tech model.
The R5 Turbo 3E is expected to enter production in 2026, likely in very limited quantities, with a selling price expected to exceed £100,000 (RM563,000).
Ford has finally given the green light to Boreham Motorworks to reproduce the iconic classic Ford Escort Mk1 RS model.
Although it is built using the original 1970s blueprints, Boreham has injected several modern elements into this model.
Only 150 units of the Escort RS will be produced, and buyers will be given two engine options.
The most powerful version features a naturally aspirated 2.1-liter inline-four engine paired with a five-speed dogleg gearbox, producing an impressive 296 hp and capable of reaching engine speeds of 10,000 rpm.
This new engine showcases components such as steel connecting rods, a billet crankshaft, a fuel injection system, and a custom titanium exhaust.
Those seeking a more ‘authentic’ package can opt for the base version, which comes with an upgraded Twin-Cam 1,845 cc engine featuring a new fuel injection system.
With power reaching 182 hp, this is transmitted to the rear wheels via a four-speed straight-cut manual transmission.
In terms of exterior design, the Escort RS retains the spirit of the original model, but is enhanced with modern elements such as LED headlights, wider wheel arches, and custom 15-inch four-spoke rims.
According to Boreham, the car has a weight distribution ratio of 55:45, a coil spring suspension system, a limited-slip differential at the rear, and a floating-style aluminum and titanium rear axle.
The braking system consists of four-piston calipers and 260 mm rotors at the front, followed by two-piston calipers and 264 mm rotors at the rear.
The cabin space is quite basic, as it is free from the presence of a large screen.
Instead, it features a carbon fiber dashboard complete with analog gauges, air conditioning, and a very simple audio system.
Additionally, there is a three-spoke Alcantara steering wheel, bucket seats, as well as options for installing a roll cage and a four-point harness system, plus storage space for racing helmets.
As mentioned earlier, only 150 units of the Escort MK1 RS will be produced, each carrying a price tag starting from £295,000 (approximately RM1.66 million) with a two-year warranty or a limit of 20,000 miles.
With just a few weeks left until the Tokyo Auto Salon 2025 opens its doors, Nissan is set to unveil something special.
It isn’t a new generation GT-R; rather, it is a Nissan Skyline GT-R R32 without the iconic RB26DETT inline-six engine.
More precisely, it is an R32 EV!
This project actually began back in March 2023, when the legendary RB26 engine – highly regarded among JDM enthusiasts – was retired to make way for a full-time electric power unit.
At this time, Nissan has not yet disclosed details about the modifications made to this iconic model.
In terms of outward appearance, it is quite difficult to detect any changes, except for the removal of the fog lights and the absence of exhaust pipes at the rear.
What do you think about Nissan’s R32 GT-R EV project?
Chris Bangle is a highly talented automotive designer who has a… well, talent for dividing opinions among car enthusiasts. In other words, you either love or detest whatever this American-born designer comes up with.
Bangle began his career with Opel in the early 1980s, but he first gained significant attention while serving as the chief designer for the Fiat Coupe in the early 90s.
Interestingly, he made the decision to leave Fiat to join BMW around a year before the Coupe was launched onto the market.
In Munich, many of Bangle’s designs received positive feedback from the market, although they also sparked controversy, leading some to launch a petition for his removal.
Regardless, any car designed by Bangle himself or cooked up under his leadership is sure to provoke a reaction.
Let’s take a look at seven of Bangle’s most iconic designs:
Fiat Coupe
While the Coupe was still in development, Fiat opted for Bangle and his team’s design over Pininfarina’s. The car features retro design elements such as round headlights, combined with contemporary features like the diagonal lines on its wheel arches.
BMW 5 Series (E60)
When Bangle first joined BMW, the automaker’s bread-and-butter models—3 Series, 5 Series, and 7 Series—sported conventional designs, all sharing a similar ‘face’ albeit in different sizes. Refusing to walk the same path as the ones before him, Bangle gave the fifth-generation 5 Series striking eagle eye-shaped headlights that remain iconic today.
BMW Z3
Although the Z3 was originally designed by Joji Nagashima, it has come to be seen as the first BMW roadster birthed under Bangle’s leadership. Its design is much tamer compared to its predecessor, the Z1, yet the Z3 still captivates with its long bonnet, short rear deck, and distinctive ‘shark gill’ air intakes.
BMW Z4
While the basic form of the roadster was retained, the Z4 exudes greater elegance than the Z3, thanks to a design technique known as flame surfacing, which blends sharp lines with smoother concave and convex surfaces. With the right lighting, you can discern the letter ‘Z’ formed by the diagonal crease between the front wheels and the doors.
BMW 7 Series (E65)
Similar to the 5 Series, Bangle steered the fourth generation of the 7 Series into new territory with a design inspired by the Z9 Gran Turismo concept car unveiled at the 1999 Frankfurt Motor Show. Its rounded rear design elicited varied responses, leading to the coining of the term “Bangle Butt.”
MINI Hatch (R50)
Creating a new design is not particularly challenging for a designer of Bangle’s calibre; however, refreshing an iconic design without compromising its essence presents a different challenge. This was the daunting task faced by Bangle and his team with the Mini Hatch but they rose to the challenge.
Rolls-Royce Phantom
During his time at BMW, Bangle was also responsible for overseeing design operations of another brand under the BMW umbrella, Rolls-Royce. Under his supervision, Serbian designer Marek Djordjevic succeeded in crafting a modern Phantom without sacrificing the iconic timeless appearance that the affluent adore so much.
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