Category Archives: NEWS

NEWS

MODENAS launches Eliminator 500 cruiser, starting from RM30,100

In conjunction with the Malaysian MotoGP event, MODENAS has officially launched its latest cruiser, the 2025 Modenas Eliminator 500 with the price starting from RM30,100 (without insurance and roadtax).

This model is a rebadged version from Kawasaki Eliminator 500, aligning with the approach taken for previous motorcycles under 750 cc.

The Modenas Eliminator is powered by a parallel twin 451 cc engine, capable of producing 44.7 hp at 9,000 rpm and a torque of 43 Nm at 6,000 rpm.

Power is transmitted to the wheel via a six-speed manual transmission equipped with an assist-slipper clutch.

The Eliminator features a 41 mm front telescopic fork, complemented by twin shock absorbers with preload adjustment, offering a wheel travel of 120 mm at the front and 90 mm at the rear.

For stopping power, the motorcycle employs dual 310 mm disc brakes with twin-piston calipers at the front, paired with a single disc and a single-piston caliper at the rear. It also includes a two-channel anti-lock braking system (ABS).

The Eliminator 500 comes with 18-inch rims fitted with 130/70 front tires, and 16-inch alloy rims with 150/80 rear tires.

Additional features include LED headlights and taillights, an LCD cluster display with Rideology app support, a fuel tank capacity of 12.8 liters, and a seat height of 735 mm.

NEWS

2026 Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class to feature 2.0L turbo engine developed by Geely

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The collaboration between Mercedes-Benz and Geely extends beyond just the smart EV brand.

According to a recent report from CarNewsChina, Mercedes will utilize an engine developed by Horse Powertrain Limited in its next-generation sedan the Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class, which previously relied on engines from Renault.

It is important to note that Horse Powertrain Limited is a joint venture owned 50:50 by Geely and Renault, responsible for producing engines that will be supplied to automotive companies such as Renault, Geely, Mitsubishi, Nissan, Volvo, and Proton.

The four-cylinder inline 2.0-liter turbo engine expected to be used in the 2026 CLA-Class is projected to deliver an output of 250 hp and a torque of 360 Nm.

This engine will be developed and manufactured in China, while the catalytic converter components will be assembled in Germany to ensure compliance with emissions standards.

Additionally, the CLA-Class will feature several other technologies, including a 48V mild hybrid system and a smart driver assistance system developed by the Chinese startup Momenta, in which Mercedes was one of the earliest investors.

The new CLA will also be available in a fully electric version, equipped with a rear-wheel drive electric motor delivering 235 hp, paired with an 89.6 kWh battery pack for a range of up to 750 km (WLTP data).

The MMA platform used by the CLA also supports an 800V electric architecture, allowing for 400 km of range to be added with just 15 minutes of charging.

Mercedes is expected to launch the new generation CLA model in 2025.

EV, NEWS

Hyundai Initium FCEV Concept design resembles Pontiac Aztek

Hyundai has recently unveiled a hydrogen-powered concept model – the Hyundai Initium FCEV Concept – set to replace the Hyundai Nexo and expected to hit the market in the first half of 2025.

The appearance of the Initium bears a strong resemblance to a peculiar crossover from the 2000s.

Here are five facts you should know about the Hyundai Initium FCEV Concept:

 

  1. Hydrogen SUV with a Range Exceeding 650 km

The Hyundai Initium is powered by a single electric motor generating 201 horsepower, driven by a fuel cell system. While the capacity of the hydrogen tank is not disclosed, the Initium is capable of traveling over 650 km on a full tank.

In comparison, the Hyundai Nexo generates a maximum power of 161 horsepower and has an EPA-rated range of 621 km.

 

  1. Enhanced FCEV System

According to Hyundai, the stated range can be achieved through improvements to the fuel cell system. These enhancements include increasing the output from the fuel cell stack, as well as boosting the battery pack capacity.

With these upgrades, the Initium will also support vehicle-to-load (V2L) functionality.

 

  1. New Design Language “Art of Steel”

Through the Initium, Hyundai aims to showcase its new design philosophy, “Art of Steel,” which will be applied to most future production models. At a glance, the Initium features design elements from existing models such as the IONIQ 5 and Santa Fe, incorporating a more striking look with LED graphics resembling the Windows logo at the front and rear.

All four corners are adorned with 21-inch aerodynamic wheels, along with a roof rack that includes built-in lights.

The rear design of the Initium evokes memories of the Pontiac Aztek, famed for its controversial aesthetics from 2000 to 2005.

 

  1. Family-Friendly Cabin Space

Currently, Hyundai has not disclosed the cabin layout but promises a comfortable space for family use, featuring larger door openings and more generous recline angles for the rear seats.

Safety features include a more robust chassis and nine airbags.

 

  1. Hyundai to Assist Owners in Finding Charging Stations

One of the main challenges for hydrogen vehicle owners is the difficulty in refueling due to a limited network of stations. To address this issue, Hyundai will create a dedicated route planner to help drivers locate hydrogen refueling stations along their routes.

This system will also check the operational status and availability of these stations in addition to tracking the number of vehicles waiting to refuel.

 

NEWS

2024 TASKL: Subaru BRZ and WRX debut with Songket and Bunga Raya motifs

TC Subaru Sdn Bhd, the exclusive distributor of Subaru vehicles in Malaysia, is set to enliven the Tokyo Auto Salon Kuala Lumpur 2024 by showcasing two vehicle models adorned with special liveries inspired by local design elements.

The unique liveries applied to the Subaru BRZ and WRX were created by Motorsport Playground, drawing inspiration from a blend of Japanese engineering culture and Malaysian heritage elements, such as Songket patterns and Bunga Raya motifs that replace traditional Sakura flowers.

It is noteworthy that Subaru previously participated in a time attack challenge at the PETRONAS Sepang International Circuit using standard factory-spec Subaru BRZ and WRX vehicles.

Leveraging the expertise of TD Racing, both cars underwent necessary preparations, including basic alignments and oil checks, before attempting the time attack.

Driven by professional racer Freddie Ang, the manual transmission Subaru BRZ recorded a time of 02:42.211, while the Subaru WRX with CVT completed the lap in approximately 02:43.472.

TC Subaru is also collaborating with local clothing brand Pestle & Mortar Clothing (PMC) to offer an exclusive streetwear collection available for purchase at TASKL 2024, taking place from November 8 to 10 at the Malaysian International Trade and Exhibition
Centre (MITEC).

NEWS

7th gen Ducati Panigale V4 now in Malaysia – RM182,900

The seventh-generation Ducati Panigale V4, which was first introduced at the World Ducati Week event in Misano, Italy, last July, has now arrived in the Malaysian market.

Featuring a variety of updates encompassing cosmetic, performance, and technical aspects, the Panigale V4 is priced at RM182,900.

Powering the Panigale V4 is a 1,103 cc Desmosedici Stradale 90-degree V4 engine developed with technology derived from MotoGP. It is capable of generating 216 hp at 13,500 rpm and 120.9 Nm at 11,250 rpm, 0.5 hp more than its predecessor.

According to Ducati, the new engine is not only 1 kg lighter but also complies with the stricter Euro 5+ emissions standards.

The single-sided swingarm, a hallmark of the Panigale V4 since 2018, has now been replaced with the Ducati Hollow Symmetrical Swingarm, which reduces lateral stiffness by 37%, offering greater mechanical grip and stability.

In terms of suspension, the Panigale V4 is equipped with Showa Big Piston Fork (BPF) combined with Sachs a steering damper and shock absorber.

The Panigale V4 S, meanwhile, is fitted with the Ducati Electronic Suspension (DES) 3.0 system, which includes Öhlins NPX-30 forks, Öhlins TTX36 shock absorber, and an Öhlins steering damper.

The braking system consists of Brembo Hypure monobloc calipers, an evolution of the already high-performance Stylema. The calipers are 60 grams lighter and feature improved heat dissipation as well as better braking feel.

For the electronics system, there is a six-axis platform known as the Ducati Vehicle Observer (DVO), which includes features such as:

  • Ducati Traction Control (DTC) DVO
  • Ducati Wheelie Control (DWC) DVO
  • Ducati Slide Control (DSC)
  • Ducati Power Launch (DPL) DVO
  • Engine Brake Control (EBC)

Also included are the Race e-CBS brake management system, Ducati Quick Shift (DQS) 2.0, and a 6.9-inch colour display with a resolution of 1280 x 480.

Styling-wise, Ducati states that the newly designed fairing reduces aerodynamic drag by 4% and increases airflow to the radiator.

The fuel tank has also been redesigned, featuring side pads to help riders maintain their position while on the track, while the seat has been extended by 35 mm to facilitate better rider tucked-in position.

NEWS

Aprilia RS 457 launched in Malaysia – from RM33,900

The mid-ranged motorcycle market in Malaysia is becoming increasingly exciting with the arrival of a new competitor, the Aprilia RS 457.

Globally introduced in September last year, the RS 457 has been developed with the same winning formula as the RS 660.

This is clearly evident in its design, where the RS 457 features similar elements to the RS 660, including the triple LED headlights that integrate LED daytime running lights and turn signals, the double fairing, and the exhaust on the ‘belly’.

At the heart of the RS 457 is a 457 cc DOHC parallel twin-cylinder engine producing 47 hp and 43.5 Nm. Highlights include liquid cooling system and four valves per cylinder.

Like the RS 660, this model is built using an aluminium frame with a crankcase that functions as a load-bearing element. This not only provides dynamic riding performance but contributes to forming a lightweight structure. Speaking of weight, the RS 457 tips the scale at 175 kg.

The frame is paired with a 41 mm fork offering 120 mm of travel at the front, as well as a single shock absorber with 130 mm of travel at the rear. Both feature preload adjustment.

For braking, the RS 457 utilises 320 mm discs at the front and 220 mm at the rear, paired with ByBre’s four-piston radial callipers.

As for the tyres, it comes equipped with 17-inch wheels shod with 110/70 tyres at the front and 150/60 tyres at the rear.

The electronic features include a five-inch TFT instrument cluster, dual-channel ABS, a Ride-by-Wire system, three riding modes, and Traction Control with three levels of adjustment. A quickshifter is available as an option for RM399.

The starting price is RM33,900 for the Prismatic Dark and Opalescent Light colours, and RM35,900 for the Racing Stripes.

NEWS

2025 Triumph Trident 660 enters Malaysian market – RM46,900

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Introduced to the world for the first time earlier this month, the new Triumph Trident 660 has now entered the Malaysian market with a starting price of RM46,900.

The model year 2025 comes with various improvements, centering on rider-focused technology, suspension system, as well as new colour and graphic options.

In response to customer demand, the Trident 660 now comes standard with Optimised Cornering ABS, Traction Control, Triumph Shift Assist, and Cruise Control.

Meanwhile, the full-colour TFT display with Bluetooth connectivity now includes turn-by-turn navigation and full phone functionality to further improve rider convenience.

In addition to the existing ride-by-wire throttle and Road and Rain riding modes, the Trident 660 also gains a third mode, Sport, which provides a more responsive performance.

For the suspension system, the Showa 41 mm front forks have been upgraded with Showa SFF-BF big piston damping, offering greater comfort and control.

At the rear, the Trident 660 utilises a monoshock RSU shock absorber with preload adjustment, also from Showa. It is equipped with Nissin braking systems featuring dual 310 mm discs and Michelin Road 5 tyres.

Finally, Triumph has introduced three new colour and graphic options for the Trident 660: Cosmic Yellow, Cobalt Blue, and Diablo Red, highlighted by a Sapphire Black trim and diagonal white stripes.

Additionally, there is a new forged aluminium top yoke and forged aluminium brake pedal.

No changes to the engine, which means the Trident 660 will soldier on with the tried-and-tested 660 cc DOHC three-cylinder engine that produces 81 PS at 10,250 rpm and 64 Nm at 6,250 rpm.

NEWS

Proton R3 team announces S70 R3 drivers lineup for Sepang 1000KM

The Proton R3 racing division has announced the four drivers who will pilot two Proton S70 R3 vehicles for the Sepang 1000KM endurance race next month.

Car number 81 will be driven by the duo of Syafiq Ali and Fahrizal Hasan, while car number 82 will feature young drivers Alister Yoong and Ariff Azmi.

The pairings were selected based on their respective experiences in motorsport.

Syafiq Ali holds the record for the most individual wins in the history of the Sepang 1000KM race and has secured three podium finishes with Proton R3. Fahrizal Hasan has a long history of success in high-performance car racing, winning his class twice in the 12-Hour Sepang race.

Car number 82 features the youngest driving pair in Proton R3’s history, both of whom are products of the Axle Sports Academy, run by Alex Yoong, Malaysia’s only Formula 1 driver.

Twenty-one-year-old Alister Yoong has accumulated significant experience in single-seater racing, while 18-year-old Ariff Azmi is a karting champion who competed alongside Alister in last year’s 1000KM race.

Additionally, Proton R3 unveiled the actual race car, the Proton S70 R3, which will be used in the upcoming endurance race.

According to Roslan Abdullah, Deputy CEO of Proton, “Motorsport is a core component of Proton’s DNA, and our heritage in competitive racing began with the first Proton Saga.”

“Although we have not competed in the Sepang 1000KM for the past three years, the Proton R3 team has kept pace with the latest developments in the racing industry, resulting in rapid advancements in the race car just a year after the Proton S70’s launch.”

“The Proton R3 team has a long history of promoting young driver careers and enhancing their profiles through collaboration. We are excited to work with this talented driving team this year, which gives us the best chance to claim the title and bolster PROTON’s record as the most successful brand in the history of the Sepang 1000KM,” Roslan Abdullah added.

EV, NEWS

Toyota tests Hilux BEV prototype units at Australian mining site

The Toyota Hilux BEV was introduced in Thailand a few years ago, featuring a single cab body configuration.

To better suit the demands of mining operations, Toyota has decided to unveil a prototype unit of the Hilux BEV, based on the single cab body style.

In collaboration with mining company BHP, Toyota aims for this Hilux BEV prototype to provide invaluable data for developing a production model.

Over the next 12 months, this Hilux BEV pickup will replace diesel trucks for various operations at Port Hedland, one of the largest iron ore mining sites in the world.

This double-cab prototype Hilux BEV closely resembles the diesel engine version, with the only distinguishing feature being the presence of a charging port on the front fender.

Additionally, Toyota has fitted a bull bar at the front, complete with extra LED lights.

To date, Toyota has kept the specifications of the Hilux BEV prototype under wraps.

However, this is not the first time we’ve heard news about the use of electric Hilux trucks to replace diesel-powered vehicles in mining areas.

A few years ago, Toyota Australia developed an electric version of the Land Cruiser 70 Series as part of efforts to reduce emissions.

Last year, SEA Electric and MEVCO announced a AU$1 billion collaboration to develop 8,500 EV units based on the Hilux and Land Cruiser for use in the mining industry.

Moreover, in the UK, Toyota is conducting an initiative to test up to ten prototype Toyota Hilux units powered by fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV) technology adapted from the hydrogen sedan Toyota Mirai.

 

Toyota Hilux FCEV

EV, NEWS

Xiaomi SU7 Ultra prototype sets fastest lap time at Nurburgring, beating Porsche Taycan Turbo GT

Who would have thought that a manufacturer known for smart devices now has a compelling recipe to keep Porsche engineers on their toes at the Green Hell track?

Xiaomi Auto recently achieved a record for the fastest electric sedan lap around the Nurburgring Nordschleife, clocking in at 6 minutes and 48.874 seconds with its prototype model, the SU7 Ultra.

Despite being a prototype, it is fast enough to surpass the previous record set by the Porsche Taycan Turbo GT, which was 7 minutes and 7.55 seconds.

According to a report from CarNewsChina, the manufacturer initially faced significant challenges, as their attempts to set the record were postponed multiple times due to weather conditions.

The Xiaomi SU7 Ultra was announced in mid-2023 as a high-performance variant equipped with the HyperEngine V8s electric drive unit.

With a three-motor configuration, the Xiaomi SU7 Ultra can deliver a staggering 1,548 horsepower, accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in just 1.97 seconds, and achieving a top speed of 350 km/h.

This impressive performance figure comes from a manufacturer primarily known for consumer electronics.

Moreover, Xiaomi’s electric sedan has made a significant impact within the automotive industry.

According to reports from various media outlets, Ford CEO Jim Farley allegedly imported a unit from Shanghai and personally drove the Xiaomi SU7 sedan for six months.

“I don’t like to talk too much about competition, but I’ve driven the (sedan) Xiaomi. I’ve been driving it for six months and I don’t want to let it go,” he stated.

Xiaomi plans to revisit the Nurburgring in 2025 to attempt a new fastest lap record using a production model.

 

NEWS

Proton S70 R3 race car: five things you need to know

Proton through its motorsports division Proton R3, has just announced the lineup of drivers who will pilot the latest S70 R3 vehicle at the Sepang 1000KM (S1K) race next month.

At the same time, media representatives were introduced to the new race car that will be used by the Proton R3 team.

Here are five things you should know about the Proton S70 R3:

 

  1. Still using the Campro engine


As previously reported, the Proton S70 R3 will not compete with the 1.5-liter three-cylinder turbo engine.

Instead, it will utilize the long-standing Campro S4PH 1.6-liter engine, which has been in use since Proton R3’s involvement in the S1K with vehicles like the Preve, Suprima S, Iriz, Saga, and Satria Neo.

While Proton has not disclosed the exact specifications of this vehicle, earlier reports suggest that the S4PH engine fitted in the Saga and Iriz can produce over 200 hp!

 

  1. Why not use the original S70 engine or removing the turbo?

Proton is participating in the S1K race in the MTC category, which allows the use of different engines from the same manufacturer.

This means that Proton can save on development costs by referring to data obtained from previous races for this new vehicle.

If they were to use the original engine, Proton would require more time to gather the necessary data. The decision to remove the turbo from the original S70 engine was also deemed inefficient; thus, it is better for Proton to stick with the proven Campro engine, which has already won five S1K championships.

For S70 fans, there’s no need to worry, as Proton has revealed plans to join the race next year using a street-spec Proton S70.

 

  1. What’s different about the S70 R3?

Proton has added a front splitter, a rear spoiler, and 15-inch rims wrapped in 195/55 R15 tires.

Essentially, the suspension configuration of the S70 remains the same as the street model, compliant with regulations, but it has been enhanced with a set of dampers more suitable for racing.

 

  1. A cabin loaded with racing equipments

In the cabin area, all unnecessary equipment has been removed, and even the door panels have been replaced.

What remains are Recaro racing seats, an AP Racing pedal box, a Motec display screen, a manual gear knob, and the mandatory safety cage.

 

  1. Will there be a street version of the S70 R3?

Proton has previously revealed plans to produce a road version of the S70 R3, equipped with high-performance upgrades for public sale.

While it may not be available in the near future, the image gallery below allows you to imagine what the R3 variant of the S70 might look like on the road.

Will it have specifications similar to the S70 race car? As a Proton fan, we hope it’s not just a cosmetic change.

NEWS

Classic Jaguar E-Type reborns after 50 years

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For the next few years, Jaguar wants you to forget about internal combustion engine vehicles, as they aim to focus on producing a lineup of electric-powered models.

However, if you have sufficient financial resources, you can request the manufacturer to recreate a model that has long been discontinued.

In this case, it’s the Jaguar E-Type.

Jaguar Classic has generously accepted a request from a collector in Southeast Asia who wishes to add a pair of Jaguar E-Types to their collection.

Using the original blueprint data from the Series 1 1961 to Series III models, Jaguar Classic has revived the E-Type Commemorative based on the special E-Type Commemorative Edition, of which only 50 units were produced in 1974 to mark the end of the E-Type’s production.

One is finished in Signet Green, while the other is in Opal Black.

These two classic cars maintain the original 3.8-liter inline six-cylinder engine, which has now been upgraded with an electronic fuel injection system, replacing the original triple carburetors.

The original four-speed manual transmission has also been replaced with a more modern five-speed unit.

According to Jaguar, they required over 2,000 hours to match all the modern upgrades on these classic vehicles, which include a heated windshield and a Bluetooth radio.

The cabin of the E-Type is adorned with Bridge of Weir tan leather seats, an aluminum center console engraved with the Series 1 blueprint, and gold and silver accents crafted by Deakin & Francis, the oldest jewelry manufacturer in Britain.

Given the quality of craftsmanship, only those with deep pockets can afford to own these classic E-Type Commemorative vehicles.

NEWS

Neta Auto opens doors to first flagship store in Malaysia

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Neta Auto and KCM Group recently launched Neta’s first flagship store in Malaysia, located in Ampang.

The state-of-the-art showroom is part of Neta’s mission to make smart electric vehicles more accessible while elevating the entire car-buying experience.

Located in the heart of Kuala Lumpur’s embassy district, the 2,322 square metre showroom features a minimalist aesthetic with glass curtain walls and finishes in tech-inspired grays and Nordic wood tones.

In addition to the vehicle display area featuring the latest Neta models, the new facility also includes a variety of other amenities, such as a merchandise area, a coffee lounge, and dedicated after-sales services.

According to Neta Auto, the opening of the Ampang flagship showroom marks a milestone in its expansion strategy for the Malaysian market.

The company aims to establish 20 dealerships by the end of this year, reaching key areas such as Kuala Lumpur, Selangor, Johor, Penang, and East Malaysia.

In addition, Neta is upgrading its existing dealerships to 3S facilities to enhance the customer experience across both sales and service channels.

“Each new location represents a vital step in achieving our goal: to make intelligent mobility accessible to everyone,” said Zhou Jiang, Vice President of Neta Auto.

Coinciding with the showroom launch, Neta Auto also held a ceremony for the delivery of the first 50 units of the Neta X to customers in Malaysia.

Launched last July, the Neta X is available in three variants: 400 Comfort (RM119,888), 400 Luxury (RM127,888), and 500 Luxury (RM135,888).

The 400 variants come with a 52 kWh battery providing a driving range of up to 323 km, while the 500 variant, equipped with a 62 kWh battery, can travel up to 410 km on a full charge.

Customers choosing the Neta X will receive a complimentary Neta Wallbox charger or one year of free charging credit from chargeEV.

Additionally, it also comes with a free service package for two years or 40,000 km. This special promotion is valid until 31 October 2024.

EV, NEWS

Mazda EZ-6 launched in China, priced from RM86k

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Mazda has announced the sale price for the EZ-6 sedan model, designed as the spiritual successor to the Mazda6 for the Chinese market.

The EZ-6 sedan is essentially a badge-engineered version of the Deepal SL03 model produced by Changan Automobile.

There, buyers can acquire an electric sedan powered by a single rear-wheel-drive electric motor delivering 255 hp and 320 Nm of torque, paired with two battery capacity options.

The base version comes with a 56.1 kWh lithium iron phosphate battery pack, offering a range of 480 km, while the 68.8 kWh battery pack allows for a range of over 600 km on a full charge.

There is also a range-extender version, where the Mazda EZ-6 range extender comes equipped with a 215 hp and 320 Nm electric motor supported by a 1.5-liter engine producing 94 hp to charge the battery pack.

Two battery capacity options are available for the range-extender version: 18.9 kWh or 28.4 kWh, with the smaller version enabling a zero-emission range of 105 km, while the larger unit increases the range to 160 km.

Most notably, thanks to the additional engine, the overall range of the EZ-6 range extender sedan can reach up to 1,300 km!

In terms of dimensions, the Mazda EZ-6 measures 4,921 mm in length with a wheelbase of approximately 2,895 mm, making it longer than its competitor, the Toyota Camry.

Other features include a 10.1-inch digital cluster screen, a 14.6-inch central screen, leather or Nappa leather upholstery, dual-zone automatic climate control, wireless device charging, a 64-color ambient lighting system, and a premium Sony audio system with 14 speakers.

The sale price starts at 139,800 yuan (RM85,531) for the range-extender variant, while the pure EV version starts at 159,800 yuan (RM97,768)

NEWS

Cycle & Carriage Cheras now houses the Peugeot brand

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Cycle & Carriage (C&C) Cheras has now become the first C&C showroom to showcase the Peugeot brand alongside a lineup of Mercedes-Benz vehicles.

The inauguration ceremony was officiated by Thomas Tok, CEO of Cycle & Carriage; Linda Jackson, CEO of Peugeot; Daniel Gonzalez as the COO of Stellantis ASEAN, and Jamie Morais, the Managing Director of Stellantis Malaysia.

The exhibition center located on the first floor spans 4,655 square feet where customers can view Peugeot models such as the 408, 2008, 3008, 5008, and the Landtrek pickup truck, as well as a comfortable café space.

It is open daily from 8:30 AM to 7:00 PM, or from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM every Sunday.

Cycle & Carriage also offers exclusive promotions in conjunction with the opening of this Peugeot showroom, where customers can enjoy savings of up to RM30,000 for the Landtrek model, up to RM40,000 for the 3008 model, and up to RM42,000 for the 5008 model.

In addition to Cheras, Cycle & Carriage will introduce the Peugeot brand at C&C Batu Caves and C&C George Town exhibition centers, as well as more branches nationwide in the near future.

NEWS

Jaecoo J5 set to enter Malaysian market next year (Q4 2025), challenging X50, HR-V

Are you a fan of the Jaecoo brand but looking for a smaller-sized SUV compared to the current J7 offering?

Fret not, as Jaecoo Malaysia has confirmed the emergence of another new model set to hit the local market in the fourth quarter of the upcoming year (Q4 2025), namely the Jaecoo J5.

The Jaecoo J5 was officially unveiled at the Omoda | Jaecoo International User Summit 2024 in Wuhu, China recently.

Described as a pet-friendly SUV, the Jaecoo J5 comes equipped with several beneficial features.

For instance, extended seats for pet comfort, an air conditioning system with powerful filtration capabilities, smart climate control, and antibacterial health devices that can inhibit any bacteria growth inside the cabin.

The Jaecoo J5 is also suitable for outdoor activities as it has the ability to accommodate a load of up to 1,250 kg, a roof rack capable of holding up to 75 kg, charging ports, hooks in the cargo space, as well as versatile camping lights.

Other features include a free-hanging system, a 13.2-inch infotainment screen, and a 1.45 square meter panoramic glass roof claimed to be the largest in its class.

According to media reports, the Jaecoo J5 is equipped with the same 1.6-liter turbo TGDI engine used in the Jaecoo J7, producing 194 hp and 290 Nm paired with a seven-speed DCT transmission.

As mentioned earlier, the Jaecoo J5 has been confirmed for the Malaysian market in the fourth quarter of the upcoming year (Q4 2025) and will compete with models in its segment such as the Proton X50, Honda HR-V, Chery Omoda 5, and Peugeot 2008.

NEWS

Stellantis announces new regional parts hub in Malaysia, to be operational in 2025

Stellantis has announced the establishment of a Regional Parts Hub in Malaysia. The new hub is a crucial component of Stellantis’ broader strategy to deepen its localisation efforts and bolster its long-term presence in the India and Asia Pacific region, including Malaysia.

Daniel Gonzalez, Chief Operating Officer, Stellantis ASEAN said, “India and Asia Pacific region is the third growth engine for Stellantis, and the Regional Parts Hub is anticipated to become a key asset in our regional supply chain strategy.

“This investment underpins Stellantis’ long-term commitment in strengthening our footprint and growth not just in the region, but more importantly in contributing towards solidifying Malaysia’s position as a regional automotive hub.”

Set to be operational by the first quarter of 2025, the new Regional Parts Hub is designed to meet and cater to the growing demands of around 20 countries in the region, including key markets such as Malaysia.

This hub is also part of Stellantis’ strategy to enhance its aftersales service by reducing downtime and ensuring efficient access and availability of automotive parts and components to dealers and customers.

It will house automotive parts and components of all Stellantis brands including Peugeot, Citroën, Alfa Romeo, Jeep, RAM, Leapmotor and more.

“The opening of our regional parts warehouse in Malaysia marks a significant milestone in our dedication to customer-centricity as we continue to better serve our customers across the India and Asia Pacific region.

“Strategically located in a Free Trade Zone in Malaysia, this regional warehouse will allow us to improve parts availability, reduce lead time and enhance the overall service efficiency. It will also enable us to respond quickly to the growing needs of our customers while ensuring they receive the highest level of aftersales support,” said Olivier Torchet, Head of Parts & Services, Stellantis India & Asia Pacific.

NEWS

Targeted RON95 subsidy should be based on vehicle type, says expert

The government has been urged to implement the targeting of RON95 petrol subsidies based on vehicle type rather than household or individual income.

According to Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia’s Malaysian Inclusive Development and Advancement Institute (Minda-UKM) director, Professor Tan Sri Dr Noor Azlan Ghazali, the concept is similar to vehicle classification for toll payments on highways.

He further added that, in the context of petrol subsidies, the classification should be based on vehicle engine capacity.

“It is common for those with low incomes to use motorcycles as their daily transport, while wealthier individuals tend to use vehicles with larger engine capacities.

“If a wealthy person uses a Perodua Kancil, they should qualify for the subsidy because they consume less fuel.

“Of course, there will be some leakage in every classification, but it can be minimised,” he said at a special press conference on the 2025 Budget on Thursday.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, announced in the 2025 Budget on Friday that the targeting of RON95 petrol subsidies is expected to be introduced by mid-2025.

Additionally, he stated that the government is advised to assist the underprivileged through alternative methods without disturbing market prices.

“I prefer to maintain market prices, and we cannot live in a state of denial.

“If we continue to suppress prices at a low level for an extended period, it will create a burden.

“If a war occurs in the Gulf countries, it will certainly lead to an increase in petrol prices; the public needs to be informed, and the government must provide assistance through alternative methods without interfering with market prices,” he said.

NEWS

Proton and Grab launch the “Saga Power Up for Grab Drivers” campaign, starting this November 4

Proton recently signed a memorandum of agreement (MoA) with Grab Malaysia, offering exclusive benefits to e-hailing drivers when they purchase a Proton Saga.

This collaboration aims to enhance the driving experience and support the growing needs in the e-hailing industry.

The initiative is also expected to provide benefits to drivers, users, and further strengthen the positions of both companies in the market.

The MoA was signed by Roslan Abdullah, Deputy Chief Executive Officer of Proton, and Rashid Shukor, Director of Operations and National Mobility for Grab Malaysia.

Starting from November 4, the “Saga Power Up for Grab Drivers” campaign will grant priority access to Grab driver partners to own a Proton Saga.

The campaign includes incentives and offers such as cash rebates and a 5% service discount valid for the first two years or up to 40,000 km.

Eligible drivers can purchase as many Proton Sagas as they qualify for under Grab Malaysia’s terms.

In addition to the Proton package, Grab also offers up to RM500 for new driver partners who purchase a Proton Saga and activate their Grab Driver account.

“PROTON is excited to collaborate with Grab Malaysia in supporting the e-hailing industry by offering our iconic model, the Proton Saga, to our Grab driver partners. Reliability and reasonable maintenance costs are crucial factors for entrepreneurs who use cars as their primary work tool.”

“Furthermore, this partnership provides exclusive privileges to those who accept this offer while supporting our vision for more accessible transportation for the people of Malaysia,” said Roslan Abdullah, Deputy Chief Executive Officer, PROTON.

“This collaboration reflects our commitment to providing flexible opportunities to the people of Malaysia in an ever-changing economy. By facilitating access to income opportunities, we support our partners who play a vital role in meeting the daily needs of society.

“With the increasing demand for travel, we are constantly striving to increase and optimize our active driver supply to meet these needs. This initiative encourages more people to take advantage of the opportunities offered by the digital economy,” said Rashid Shukor, Director of Operations and National Mobility, Grab Malaysia.

NEWS

Brabus Rocket GTS is an SL 63-based shooting brake that can go past 300 km/h

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Never have I thought that a roadster like the Mercedes SL could be reimagined as a shooting brake. But as it’s been proven time and time again, nothing is impossible with Brabus.

Believe it or not, the Rocket GTS you see here originally started life as a Mercedes-AMG SL63 S E Performance.

You might have a hard time recognising it, as the soft top convertible roof has been replaced with a fixed roof, a sloping windscreen, and a tailgate.

What’s even more impressive is that the entire body—including the bonnet, bumpers, side panels, and roof—is made from carbon fibre.

In addition, the front apron, rear diffuser, aerodynamic blades on the Monoblock P Platinum Edition wheels, and exhaust tips are also crafted from this lightweight material to keep the shooting brake’s weight in check.

Speaking of weight, Brabus has not disclosed the overall weight, but we’d bet it is considerably lighter than the donor car, which weighs a hefty 2,195 kg.

According to the company, the Rocket GTS has undergone wind tunnel testing to ensure stability at speeds of 300 km/h and above.

The front apron helps reduce lift, while the flat roof, ducktail spoiler, and aggressive rear diffuser design contribute to increased downforce at high speeds.

On top of that, the large air intake directs airflow towards the radiator and front brakes for improved cooling.

Like the SL 63, the interior of the Rocket GTS can still accommodate four passengers in a 2+2 configuration.

Moreover, by eliminating the convertible roof mechanism, Brabus has succeeded in creating a larger cargo space behind the cabin, making it much more practical than the SL.

As with most of Brabus’s designs, the cockpit has been upgraded with carbon fibre trim, Alcantara upholstery, soft leather, and the Brabus logo. Needless to say, customers have the freedom to choose from a vast array of options.

True to its name, the Rocket GTS is powered by a hybrid twin-turbo V8 engine from the SL 63, which has been enlarged from 4.0 litres to 4.5 litres. When combined with the electric motor on the rear axle, it boasts a whopping 1,000 PS and 1,820 Nm!

However, to protect the transmission, Brabus has decided to limit the torque to a more manageable 1,620 Nm.

Even so, this car can still accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 2.6 seconds, 0 to 200 km/h in 9.5 seconds, and 0 to 300 km/h in 23.6 seconds. Brabus says the top speed is electronically limited to 317 km/h, suggesting that it could go even faster.