After a year of speculation, Mazda has officially announced plans to turn its Iconic SP concept model into a real production vehicle.
According to Masashi Nakayama, head of Mazda’s design unit, “This concept is not just an empty show car; it has been designed with a genuine intention to transform it into a production model soon.”
Previously, there were hints that Mazda was looking to realize this project.
The first indication came during the Japan Mobility Show 2023, where Mazda President and CEO Masahiro Moro described the Iconic SP as a landmark of the brand’s “commitment to the future.”
Months later, reports emerged that Mazda had joined a coalition aimed at developing internal combustion engines designed to meet carbon neutrality targets, reaffirming the manufacturer’s commitment to maintaining its iconic rotary engines.
Intended as a successor to the RX-7 and RX-8 sports cars, the Mazda Iconic SP features a twin-rotor rotary engine combined with an electric power unit (EV), with a total output capable of reaching 365 hp.
Mazda claims that this range-extending rotary engine can utilize any carbon-neutral fuel, potentially reducing emissions by up to 90 percent.
Additionally, Mazda is currently testing technology that can capture CO2 from exhaust emissions, which may play a crucial role in the development of the brand’s future vehicles.
Honda Malaysia has announced a proactive product update involving approximately 36,000 units of the Civic, Civic Type R, and CR-V.
According to the company, the activity is to update the Electric Power Steering (EPS) gearbox. The EPS gearbox worm wheel may swell and reduce grease film thickness, causing abnormal steering noise or sticky steering.
The models involved include Civic Year Model 2022-2024, Civic Type R Year Model 2023-2024, and CR-V Year Model 2024.
Honda Malaysia said it apologises for the inconvenience caused to affected customers and reassures that other current production and selling models are not affected in this product update.
“The company believes this proactive product update is necessary as customer safety is Honda Malaysia’s top priority,” it said in a statement.
All affected customers will be informed via notification letters, which will include details of the product update.
Honda Malaysia urges all customers involved in this update to contact any Honda authorised dealer to make an appointment upon receiving the notification, to have their vehicles inspected and/or repaired if required.
Honda Malaysia will bear the cost of inspection, repair or replacement of the affected parts in this activity. The replacement stock will be available in stages starting from December 2024.
Looking for a fully equipped and luxurious motorhome?
You might just need a Brabus Big Boy 1200, a tri-axle RV built in collaboration with STX Motorhomes.
Constructed on the Mercedes Actros chassis, this 12-meter-long, 2.5-meter-wide, and 4-meter-high RV boasts amenities such as a bedroom, living room, bathroom, and kitchen, all complete with large clean and wastewater tanks.
It is also equipped with a pair of 43-inch 4K TVs, a PS5 gaming console, and a premium audio system to accompany you on your travels.
Is that not enough space?
STX has also installed up to four electric-powered modules that can be extended for a more spacious and comfortable area to relax or work, complete with hydraulic jacks to ensure structural stability.
The sleeping accommodations include a king-size bed, two sofas, and an additional pull-down single bed located at the rear of the cockpit.
The kitchen is outfitted with various modern appliances, including a cooking stove, oven, freezer, coffee machine, and dishwasher.
Connectivity is not a major issue, as the Brabus Big Boy 1200 comes with a Starlink satellite dish and Wi-Fi router.
Additionally, Brabus has equipped the motorhome with up to eight solar panels, a battery pack, and a power generator to ensure an adequate supply for extended off-grid periods.
To power this tri-axle motorhome, the Brabus Big Boy 1200 is equipped with a 12.8-liter turbo diesel engine producing 523 hp and 2,600 Nm of torque, with a speed limit set at 90 km/h.
The price for one unit of the Brabus Big Boy 1200 starts at €1,260,504.20 (approximately RM6 million).
The Land Public Transport Agency (APAD) has issued a temporary ban on the use of phone charger sockets in express buses following an electrocution incident that recently claimed the life of a teenage boy in Penang, according to a report by Kosmo.
Transport Minister Anthony Loke Siew Fook stated that the temporary ban on the use of phone charger sockets in express buses will remain in effect until a report from a special task force regarding the incident has been completed.
“Currently, all buses equipped with these sockets are prohibited from using them temporarily because we want to determine the actual cause of this incident first.
“After this special task force prepares the report, if there are any improvements that need to be made, the Ministry of Transport (MOT) is ready to cooperate with the Energy Commission (ST) to review the standard operating procedures (SOP) that need to be implemented before the use of these sockets in express buses is allowed,” he said during a session in the Dewan Rakyat today.
He was responding to a supplementary question from Mohd. Nazri Abu Hassan (PN-Merbok) regarding whether the MOT could instruct APAD to ensure that phone charging equipment installed in public transport is tested for safety levels before being approved for use.
Meanwhile, Anthony Loke assured passengers that they need not worry about the safety of using phone charger sockets on planes and trains.
According to him, the charger sockets on planes and trains adhere to standards that must be met by the manufacturers of these vehicles.
“There is no need to worry about using those sockets. For buses, there currently are no such standards.
“To date, during inspections by the Computerized Vehicle Inspection Centre (Puspakom) and others, sockets have not been included as part of the inspections. We will revisit the SOP together with the ST to ensure that the use of sockets in buses adheres to a standard,” he said.
In addition to the Japanese animated series “Initial D” and “MF Ghost,” which feature characters driving Toyota-branded cars, there is also an anime series officially produced by the automaker itself.
The anime series “GRIP,” which can be watched legally on YouTube, is now in its second season and includes Easter eggs that will delight fans.
Shared on the Supra MKV forum, one such Easter egg appears on a chalkboard in a scene featuring a list of potential future GR sports cars, including the Supra Mk6, Celica Mk8, MR2 Mk4, GR86 Mk3, and GR GT3.
Notably, the GR Yaris and GR Corolla are completely absent from this list, along with the GR Starlet, which has been promoted as an affordable alternative to the GR Yaris hatchback model.
According to several previous reports, Toyota Gazoo Racing is set to revive several iconic names that are part of the brand’s motorsport history.
The Celica is expected to return as an all-wheel-drive coupe with a 2.0L turbo engine delivering 400 hp, while the MR2 is likely to make a comeback as a mid-engine sports car based on the FT-Se concept model.
In addition to the new generation GR86 and GR Supra, there is also the GR GT3/Lexus LFR, which may be powered by a V8 engine.
Toyota is also looking to develop another fast model, the GR Starlet, which will serve as a complement to the existing hot hatch lineup (GR Yaris, GR Corolla).
Unlike the two models equipped with GR-Four all-wheel-drive systems, the GR Starlet will utilize a three-cylinder inline engine producing around 150 hp and 220 Nm, driving only the front wheels.
Touch ‘n Go (TnG) has launched two new campaigns aimed at enhancing the experience of Malaysians using digital wallets.
The e-Mas RFID campaign, which is valid from October 1, 2024, to January 31, 2025, offers TnG eWallet users the opportunity to receive e-Mas, a digital gold that will be credited directly to their accounts.
To qualify, users only need to purchase an RFID tag during the mentioned period, where 100 lucky winners will be selected each month to receive a cash rebate of e-Gold worth RM100.
Meanwhile, the RFID Cashback Rebate campaign offers a RM5 rebate for every purchase of an RFID tag at authorized installation or service centers nationwide, from November 1, 2024, to January 31, 2025.
This rebate will reduce the price of the RFID tag from RM35 to RM30 and is limited to the first 27,500 eligible customers who make payments using the TnG eWallet.
Through this latest campaign, TnG aims to encourage Malaysians to adopt a modern approach to diversifying their savings while integrating daily expenditure more seamlessly, and at the same time, enhancing the user experience through digital innovation.
Shell Malaysia and BonusLink have unveiled their refreshed rewards and loyalty program, which enables members to unlock enhanced rewards based on their tier level.
Shell and BonusLink’s refreshed loyalty program now features a three-tier structure, namely Silver, Gold, and Platinum. This allows members to multiply their rewards by up to five times, making premium benefits more accessible than ever before.
Silver members earn 1.5X points, gold members receive 3X points, and platinum members can multiply their rewards by up to 5X points per litre when refueling at Shell as well as in-store purchases.
Additionally, the reward refresh period has been extended to two months, giving members more time to accumulate points and maximize their benefits.
To further enhance this experience, members are encouraged to switch to Shell App for payments, to unlock exclusive rewards that significantly surpass those offered by the physical card. It also streamlines the earning and redeeming process while offering unparalleled convenience.
“For years, loyalty programs have been part of the brand-customer relationship, but at Shell, we’re focused on making sure our customers get tangible value every time they visit. Together with BonusLink, we’ve refreshed our rewards program to benefit everyone, not just the big spenders. With each stop at Shell, your rewards multiply, made even more seamless through the Shell App.
Since we launched Shell App in 2023, we’ve received tremendous feedback on how we can enhance the payment experience. We’re excited to soon roll out an upgraded Shell App, making it the preferred way to pay for fuel at Shell. This update reinforces our commitment to providing greater value to customers, ensuring that every ringgit spent delivers more benefits and a smoother, more rewarding experience,” said Seow Lee Ming, General Manager of Shell Malaysia.
In conjunction with the celebration of MG’s 100th anniversary, SAIC Motor Malaysia has announced a year-end promotional campaign for the MG4 EV and MG ZS EV vehicle models.
This latest campaign offers up to 20 months of free installments worth RM26,000 for the MG ZS EV model.
Customers can also enjoy 12 months of free installments (valued at RM16,000) for the MG4 EV Lux model, or 8 months of free installments worth RM8,500 for the MG4 EV Standard model.
According to specifications, the MG ZS EV (priced at RM126,629) is a segment B electric SUV equipped with a single electric motor producing 176 PS and 280 Nm, offering a range of 320 km based on WLTP data.
Meanwhile, the standard version of the MG4 EV (priced at RM104,629) features a single rear-wheel drive electric motor with 170 PS and 250 Nm, providing a range of 350 km on a full charge.
The MG4 Lux variant (priced at RM129,620) comes with a more powerful electric motor, delivering 203 PS and 250 Nm, paired with a 64 kWh battery pack that offers a range of 435 km.
Launched alongside the G63, SL63, GLE63S, and GLE63 S Coupe are two variants of the GLC Coupe, namely the GLC350e 4Matic Coupe and the GLC43 4Matic Coupe.
Replacing the GLC300 4Matic Coupe, the GLC350e is priced at RM425,888, while the GLC43 comes in at RM498,888.
GLC350e 4Matic Coupe
The plug-in hybrid (PHEV) SUV features a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 204 PS at 6,100 rpm and a torque of 320 Nm between 2,000 and 4,000 rpm.
When combined with an electric motor generating 135 PS (100 kW) and 440 Nm, the GLC350e boasts a total power output of 313 PS and 550 Nm.
Thanks to its 9G-Tronic transmission and 4Matic all-wheel-drive system, it can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 6.7 seconds and reaches a top speed of 218 km/h.
The electric motor draws power from a high-voltage battery with a capacity of 25.4 kWh, offering an electric driving range of up to 131 km according to the WLTP cycle, while supporting 11 kW AC charging.
In terms of equipment, the GLC350e offers the same features as the GLC300. This includes an AMG Line body kit, 20-inch AMG wheels, Digital Light headlights, and a panoramic sunroof, to name a few.
Inside, you will find black Artico man-made leather upholstery, Microcut microfibre, an 11.9-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a 12.3-inch instrument panel, and a Burmester 3D audio system.
A new addition to the GLC350e is the Driving Assistance Package Plus, which includes features such as Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC, Active Lane Keeping Assist, Active Stop-and-Go Assist, Active Steering Assist, Active Brake Assist, and Active Blind Spot Assist.
Additionally, there’s also Parking Package with a 360-degree camera and Active Parking Assist with PARKTRONIC.
GLC43 4Matic Coupe
Next is the GLC43 4Matic Coupe, which is the second Mercedes-AMG model to be assembled in Malaysia following the C43. It is powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine that delivers a healthy output of 421 PS and 500 Nm of torque.
Complementing the engine’s performance is the belt-driven starter generator (RSG) mild hybrid system, which provides an extra 10 kW (14 PS) when needed. This system also enables coasting and energy recuperation to enhance efficiency.
With an AMG Speedshift MCT 9G transmission and a 4Matic all-wheel-drive system, the GLC43 can sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in a scant 4.8 seconds. Top speed is rated at 250 km/h.
Complementing its dynamic performance are the AMG Ride Control suspension featuring adaptive damping, rear-axle steering of up to 2.5 degrees, and the Dynamic Select driving program.
Visually, the GLC43 sets itself apart from the GLC350e by unique features such as the Panamericana grille, AMG front apron with a jet-wing design and large air intakes, along with AMG side skirts and 21-inch AMG Y-spoke wheels.
It also boasts Digital Light headlights and an AMG Night Package that includes high-gloss black painted elements.
Inside, the GLC43 embraces a sporty atmosphere with AMG seats upholstered in Artico synthetic leather and Microcut materials, an AMG Performance flat-bottom steering wheel, aluminium paddle shifters, carbon fibre trim, and red Manufaktur seatbelts.
Furthermore, the GLC43’s MBUX infotainment system includes AMG-specific functions and displays, such as the Supersport view on the multimedia touchscreen and head-up display, as well as the AMG Track Pace system designed for track use.
Other features include a Burmester 3D audio system, augmented reality navigation, a Keyless-Go Comfort Package, and Thermotronic climate control, along with the comprehensive Driving Assistance Package Plus.
Alongside the G63 and SL63, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia (MBM) has expanded its GLE lineup with the launch of two AMG variants: the GLE63S and the GLE63S Coupe.
Pricing (OTR without insurance) starts from RM1,191,888 for the former and RM1,229,888 for the latter.
As expected, both models share the same engine — AMG’s tried and tested 4.0-litre biturbo V8 that produces a whopping 612 PS from 5,750 to 6,500 rpm and 850 Nm of torque from 2,500 to 4,500 rpm.
The powertrain is complemented by a mild hybrid system featuring an Integrated Starter Generator (ISG) and a 48-volt electrical system, delivering an additional 22 PS (16 kW) and 250 Nm of torque.
Paired with the AMG Speedshift TCT 9G transmission, which transfers the power to the ground via the 4Matic+ all-wheel-drive system, the vehicles can sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.9 seconds, with a top speed capped at 250 km/h.
For those seeking even greater speed, the optional AMG Driver’s Package allows the SUV to reach a thrilling maximum speed of 280 km/h.
To keep all that power in check, both the GLE63S and GLE63S Coupe are equipped with AMG Ride Control+ air suspension with adaptive adjustable damping, a limited-slip differential on the rear axle, and a retuned Electronic Stability Program (ESP).
Design-wise, the GLE and GLE Coupe feature redesigned Multibeam LED headlights with Adaptive Highbeam Assist Plus, alongside 22-inch AMG cross-spoke forged wheels and red AMG brake calipers.
At the rear, they showcase new LED lights, an AMG Performance exhaust system, and a lip spoiler for the Coupe version. The vehicles also include the AMG Night Package, which includes glossy black and dark chrome elements.
Inside, the luxurious ambience is enhanced by black Nappa leather upholstery, complemented by carbon fibre trim and an AMG Performance carbon fibre steering wheel.
A wealth of features awaits, including the latest MBUX infotainment system, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, augmented reality navigation, 100W USB charging ports, and a Burmester 3D audio system with 13 speakers.
As high-performance models, the GLE63S and GLE63S Coupe also come equipped with the AMG Track Pace system, providing vital information such as lap, sector, acceleration times, and selected live telemetry data to help drivers hone their driving skills on the track.
In October, Proton recorded sales of 12,799 units for both domestic and export markets, marking a 13.6 percent increase compared to the previous month.
This brings Proton’s year-to-date (YTD) sales total to 125,557 units, placing the national car brand second in the country’s automotive sales rankings.
Among the total sales, the Proton Saga remains a popular choice among buyers, with 6,112 units sold, bringing its YTD total to 60,178 units.
Proton is also hopeful that the Saga’s sales will surpass 70,000 units for the second consecutive year this year.
Although the Saga did not lead its segment, three other Proton models maintained top positions in their respective segments.
The Proton X50 emerged as the best-selling SUV in the B segment last month, with 2,122 units sold, while the Proton S70 returned to the top as the best-selling C segment sedan with sales of 1,432 units.
Proton’s flagship model, the X90, continued to lead sales in the D segment SUV category, recording a total of 245 units sold last month.
At the same time, Proton revealed that its first electric vehicle (EV), the e.MAS 7, will be officially launched next month (December 2024).
Honda has officially announced the discontinuation of the Super Cub 50 cc model due to the implementation of stricter emission regulations.
To celebrate this milestone, Honda has launched the Super Cub 50 Final Edition, featuring classic colors of white and Bonnie Blue inspired by the original Super Cub.
The Super Cub 50 Final Edition also boasts a two-tone solo seat, a special “Honda 50 Final Edition” emblem, a classic instrument cluster, a rear rack, and a uniquely designed key.
For the Japanese market, the Super Cub 50 comes equipped with a 49 cc engine producing 3.6 hp and 3.8 Nm of torque.
Production of this Final Edition will be limited to just 2,000 units, each priced at ¥270,000 (approximately RM7,743).
In Japan, 50 cc motorcycles have been a key pillar of the transportation system during the post-war economic boom. Due to their affordability and fuel efficiency, they have also remained a popular choice among workers and students.
In addition to stricter emission laws, the rising popularity of e-bikes and electric scooters has contributed to a decline in sales of these small-displacement motorcycles.
In addition to its lineup of custom trucks, Toyota has a special ‘menu’ to showcase at the SEMA 2024 exhibition.
This special offering is the GR86 Rally Legacy Concept, which boasts a design inspired by the 1990s Toyota Celica WRC rally cars.
In addition to its Castrol-inspired livery, this GR86 is equipped with striking red mud flaps, white rims, a Celica GT-Four-style rear wing, and a cluster of floodlights on the hood.
More remarkably, this GR86 is powered by a turbocharged 1.6-liter three-cylinder G16E-GTS engine that delivers 300 hp and 370 Nm of torque, paired with the GR-Four all-wheel drive system borrowed from the GR Corolla model.
Fitting the GR Corolla’s engine and drivetrain into the GR86 was no simple task.
Engineers had to design custom subframes and engine mounts before integrating the complete engine along with the hubs, spindles, and front axles from the Corolla.
Additionally, the GR86 is equipped with a rear differential to maintain the original gear ratios.
Inside the cabin, you’ll find racing seats and steering wheels from Sparco, a safety cage, and a sequential racing transmission shifter replacing the original manual gearbox.
With the debut of the GR86 Rally Legacy, does this mean Toyota is ready to offer a Celica model to its fans in the future?
For die-hard Batman fans, especially those who can’t get enough of Christopher Nolan’s Dark Knight trilogy, this is your chance to own your very own Tumbler!
Warner Bros. Discovery Global Consumer Products (WBDGCP) has announced that it will be building 10 full-scale replicas of the Tumbler, which will be available for purchase.
What’s interesting is that these machines can be ordered through a luxury goods company known as Wayne Enterprises Experience. Yes, it’s a real company operated by Relevance International in collaboration with WBDGCP.
As mentioned, the Tumbler is a full-scale replica, which means it can indeed be driven, although you may want to refrain from taking it to the shops or dropping the kids off at school, as technically it isn’t road-legal.
The Tumbler features a tubular chassis made from aeronautical-grade steel, while each body panel is crafted from a combination of Kevlar, carbon fibre, fibreglass, and metal sheets.
As you can see, it closely resembles the real Tumbler, complete with a jet exhaust at the back. However, it’s important to note that this replica won’t be spitting fire like it so often does in the films.
The Tumbler is powered by an LS3 6.2-litre naturally-aspirated V8 engine that produces an impressive 525 hp and 659 Nm of torque, complemented by a GM 4L85E automatic transmission operable via paddle shifters.
Weighing in at around 2.5 tonnes, the Caped Crusader’s chariot may seem hefty, but it’s lightweight compared to the Cybertruck, which tips the scales at approximately three tonnes.
Inside, Warner Bros. has revealed it will feature two seats, five-point harnesses, and several screens. Customers will also have the option to customise some parts of the interior to their liking.
So, how much will the Tumbler set you back? As one might expect, a unique vehicle like this doesn’t come cheap. You’ll need to be Bruce Wayne rich, as each unit is priced at a staggering $2,990,000 (approximately RM13 million).
Last year, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia (MBM) unveiled the Mercedes-AMG SL43. Now, the company is taking things up a notch with the introduction of the more formidable SL63 4Matic+.
With a selling price of RM1,898,888 on the road (excluding insurance), the SL63 commands a premium of RM899,000 over the lesser SL43.
Unlike the SL43, which features a modest 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine with rear-wheel drive, this powerhouse is equipped with a 4.0-litre biturbo V8 engine, paired with the AMG Speedshift MCT 9G transmission. Power is delivered through the 4Matic+ all-wheel-drive system.
Speaking of power, the hand-built mill unleashes a staggering 585 PS and 800 Nm of torque, enabling the roadster to sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.6 seconds, before reaching a top speed of 315 km/h.
The dynamic performance of the SL63 is further enhanced by the AMG Dynamic Plus package, which includes a rear locking differential, AMG engine mounts, and an additional driving programme known as Race.
For the suspension system, the SL63 boasts AMG Active Ride Control, featuring active anti-roll stabilisation, along with active rear axle steering as standard.
On the exterior, the SL63 is adorned with the AMG Night Package II, the AMG Exterior Carbon Package, Digital Light headlights with Adaptive Highbeam Assist Plus, 21-inch 10-twin-spoke forged wheels, and yellow-painted brake calipers.
While the previous generation featured a hardtop, the new R232-generation SL boasts a soft top that can be opened or closed in just 15 seconds, at speeds of up to 60 km/h.
Inside, the cabin is complemented by AMG Performance seats upholstered in luxurious Nappa leather, a black Manufaktur roof lining, Microcut microfibre, carbon trim, and an AMG Performance steering wheel.
As for the infotainment system, it includes an adjustable 11.9-inch display, MBUX Interior Assistant, and a Burmester audio system. A Driving Assistance Package is also equipped as standard.
Mercedes-Benz Malaysia (MBM) has launched six new models in the local market, with the standout being the Godfather of SUVs, the Mercedes-AMG G63.
Design-wise, you might assume that there are no significant changes but take a closer look and you’ll see that the G63 now features a new front bumper with vertical slats on the air intakes.
Its imposing exterior is further enhanced by the AMG Night package, which adds black or dark chrome elements, 22-inch AMG cross-spoke forged wheels, and red-painted AMG brake calipers.
Inside, the layout remains virtually the same, complemented by features such as the Superior Line package, a sliding sunroof, Nappa leather upholstery, active multi-contour seats with massage function and climate control, and carbon fibre trim on the doors and dashboard.
In terms of equipment, there are two screens, each measuring 12.3 inches, the Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system, a Burmester 3D audio system, a pair of rear screens, an AMG Performance steering wheel, and ambient lighting, to name a few.
Powering the G63 is a 4.0-litre biturbo V8 engine paired with an Integrated Starter-Generator (ISG) and 48-volt technology, effectively making it a mild hybrid. The combination produces 585 PS at 6,000 rpm and 850 Nm of torque from 2,500 to 3,500 rpm.
With the AMG Speedshift TCT 9G transmission driving all four wheels, the G63 can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.4 seconds, achieving a top speed of 220 km/h.
Good news for those seeking more speed: a Performance Package is available, which bumps up the top speed to 240 km/h.
For the suspension system, the G63 employs the AMG Active Ride Control+ air suspension system with active hydraulic roll stabilisation and adjustable adaptive damping.
Safety features include Parking Assist Parktronic, Active Parking Assist, Active Lane Keeping Assist, Pre-Safe system, Blind Spot Assist, Active Distance Assist Distronic, Active Steering Assist, and many more.
The selling price starts from RM1,948,888 on the road, excluding insurance.
The expansion project for the Kuala Lumpur–Karak Highway (KLK) is slated to commence in January 2025 and is expected to be completed by 2029, according to an announcement made by Deputy Minister of Works, Datuk Seri Ahmad Maslan.
He stated that the project will be carried out by AFA Prime Berhad (formerly known as ANIH Berhad), which holds the concession for the KLK highway.
According to him, the KLK highway expansion will cover a distance of 45.3 kilometers (km) with a total cost amounting to RM2.1 billion, which will be fully funded by the highway concessionaire.
“Currently, the concession company is in the process of finalizing the design before commencing physical construction at the site, which is expected to start in January 2025.
“This delay is due to the recent completion of a shareholder change. According to the concession agreement, the construction period for the KLK expansion will take four years and is expected to be completed by 2029,” he said in the Dewan Rakyat today.
He made these remarks while responding to a question from Wan Razali Wan Nor (PN-Kuantan) regarding the government’s plans to address traffic congestion on the KLK and whether alternative routes will be constructed for the network leading to the East Coast from Kuala Lumpur.
Further commenting, Ahmad explained that the scope of the KLK expansion work, which runs from the Gombak Toll Plaza to Bentong, includes adding one lane to increase the existing three-lane section to four lanes for Section 1 (from Gombak Toll Plaza to Genting Sempah).
Additionally, he mentioned the expansion from the existing two lanes to three lanes in Section 2 (from Genting Sempah to Bentong).
“This scope of work will also involve the construction of a new two-lane tunnel adjacent to the existing tunnel in the eastbound direction,” he clarified.
Transport Minister Anthony Loke has announced that natural gas vehicles (NGV) will no longer be allowed to be registered or licensed for use on public roads from July 1, 2025.
According to Loke, the decision was made during a Cabinet meeting after taking into consideration the safety of NGVs and other road users.
In this regard, Petronas will also gradually terminate NGV retail supply.
Loke explained in a statement that the peak period for the modification and installation of NGV vehicle kits was between 1995 and 2014.
“This period indicates that all affected vehicles today are in the final phase of the lifespan of NGV tanks and need to be replaced.
“These NGV tanks have a safe usage period limit of approximately 15 years, and if not replaced, they are not safe for use and may fail at any time, potentially causing injury, death, and serious property damage,” he said.
To assist NGV vehicle owners in transitioning to alternative fuels, PETRONAS NGV Sdn Bhd (PNGV) has initiated a NGV Vehicle Transition Assistance Programme for the targeted groups affected, namely NGV taxi drivers, single fuel vehicle owners, and dual fuel NGV owners.
The Transition Assistance Programme consists of three packages:
Transition Assistance Package for Eligible NGV Taxi Drivers: Each eligible registered driver will receive an e-voucher of RM3,000, which will be provided through the Setel app as a one-off payment.
NGV Kit Removal Package: For tanks from modified vehicles (dual fuel), including NGV taxis. All costs will be fully covered and can only be done at registered workshops.
Transition Assistance Package for Single Fuel NGV Vehicles: This package offers a one-off payment to eligible vehicle owners, based on the current value of the vehicle determined by an independent valuator.
Applications to check eligibility and obtain the transition package are open starting today at www.peralihanngv.com.
Back in October, BYD’s premium sub-brand Denza has been confirmed to be entering the Malaysian market, with Sime Darby Auto Imports as the official importer and BYD Malaysia as the official distributor.
The first model to be offered will be the Denza D9, which is expected to arrive in the local market some time in the first quarter of 2025. It will be pitted against the likes of the Zeekr 009, Maxus Mifa 9, and the popular Toyota Alphard/Vellfire duo.
Specifications for the Malaysian market are yet to be announced, but we can confirm that BYD Malaysia will introduce the battery electric vehicle (BEV) version, as it is currently the only version available in right-hand drive.
In China, in addition to the BEV variant, the D9 is also available in a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) version featuring a 1.5-litre engine.
For the BEV, there are two powertrain configurations: front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD). The former features a single electric motor that produces 313 PS (280 kW) and 360 Nm of torque, allowing it to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 9.5 seconds.
Meanwhile, the latter, with its twin-motor setup, offers a healthy 374 PS (275 kW) and 470 Nm, enabling a 0-100 km/h acceleration time of just 6.9 seconds.
Regardless the variant, the D9 is equipped with a 103 kWh LFP battery, providing a WLTP range of 520 km for the FWD and 480 km for the AWD.
In terms of size, the D9 measures 5,250 mm in length, 1,960 mm in width, 1,920 mm in height, and has a wheelbase of 3,110 mm. This makes it longer than the Zeekr 009, although its wheelbase is 95 mm shorter than its closest competitor.
The electric MPV can accommodate up to seven adult passengers (each 180 cm tall), thanks to a 2-2-3 seating configuration featuring sliding captain’s seats in the second row.
Its cargo space is big enough to hold seven 20-inch luggage cases and seven business backpacks.
In keeping with its status as a premium MPV, the D9 boasts a range of luxury features such as Nappa leather upholstery, ventilation and heating functions, massage functions, a panoramic glass roof, and a 7.5-litre fridge.
For the infotainment system, there is a 10.25-inch digital instrument panel, a 15.6-inch touchscreen, a Dynaudio sound system with 14 speakers, and three 50W wireless chargers, to name a few.
Pricing for the Malaysian market has yet to be announced. For reference, the D9 BEV is priced between 379,800 yuan and 469,800 yuan (approximately RM233,648 to RM289,015) in its home country.
In conjunction with the launch of the Eliminator 500 cruiser motorcycle, MODENAS has also opened pre-orders for the 2025 Kawasaki ZX-6R super sports model.
With the starting price from RM59,900, this bike can be ordered at all Kawasaki All-Star showrooms from December 1 to January 31, 2025, with a deposit of RM500.
The first 50 owners will be invited to an exclusive handover event in Sepang in February 2025.
The specifications of the Kawasaki ZX-6R are as follows:
Engine: Inline 4-cylinder DOHC, 636 cc, Euro 5
Power: 122 hp @ 13,000 rpm
Torque: 69 Nm @ 10,800 rpm
Transmission: 6-speed, assist & slipper clutch
Front Suspension: 41 mm Showa SFF-BP fork
Rear Suspension: Single shock absorber, preload adjustable
Front Brake: Dual 310 mm rotors, 4-piston calipers
Rear Brake: Single 220 mm rotor, single-piston caliper
Screen: 4.3-inch TFT
Riding Modes: Sport, Road, Rain
Malaysia’s Leading Automotive News | ENGEAR ENGLISH
