Category Archives: NEWS

NEWS

2025 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV gets larger battery, retuned suspension

Mitsubishi has introduced the upgraded version of the Outlander PHEV, which will begin sales in Japan this autumn, followed by 20 European markets in the spring of next year.

According to Mitsubishi, the petrol variant is scheduled to launch in 2025. Both versions will be entering the North American, Australian, and New Zealand markets soon.

As before, the Outlander PHEV is powered by a 2.4-litre four-cylinder petrol engine making 134 hp and 203 Nm. Augmenting the ICE is a front electric motor generating 114 hp and 255 Nm, and a rear electric motor contributing 134 hp and 195 Nm.

The combination of the internal combustion engine and dual electric motors provides the Outlander PHEV with a total output of 302 hp, allowing the SUV to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 7.9 seconds.

With a larger fuel tank capacity of 53 litres, Mitsubishi claims that the Outlander PHEV can achieve a hybrid driving range of up to 844 km. Official tests also indicate it has fuel consumption as low as 0.8 l/100 km and emissions of 18 g/km.

A notable update to the Outlander PHEV’s powertrain is the lithium-ion battery pack, which is now 40% larger, with a capacity of 22.7 kWh, providing an electric driving range of 86 km based on the WLTP cycle.

Efficiency and performance can be further maximised with three drive modes: EV, Series Hybrid, and Parallel Hybrid.

The EV mode allows the vehicle to operate entirely on electric power, while the Series Hybrid mode uses the engine to generate electricity as needed. In Parallel Hybrid mode, both the electric motor and engine work in unison.

Additionally, the Outlander PHEV features Normal, EV, Save, and Charge modes. In EV mode, the SUV is capable of reaching a maximum speed of 135 km/h.

Mitsubishi says the battery pack can be charged using Type 2 and CHAdeMO chargers, and it also supports vehicle-to-home charging capabilities for emergency situations.

For the chassis, Mitsubishi has tuned the tyres, shock absorbers, and spring rates to enhance ride comfort, while the dual pinion assist electric power steering has been engineered for more manageable steering and increased feedback.

Moreover, the S-AWC (Super All Wheel Control) system now offers enhanced grip in all driving conditions, with seven selectable modes: Normal, Eco, Power, Tarmac, Gravel, Snow, and Mud.

In terms of appearance, not much has changed for the 2025 model year, except for the grille and the addition of 20-inch wheels. Inside, the Outlander PHEV now features a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel, a 12.3-inch touchscreen, and a Dynamic Sound audio system with 12 speakers from Yamaha.

The safety kit includes features such as Forward Collision Mitigation, Rear Automatic Emergency Braking, Blind Spot Warning with Lane Change Assist, Lane Departure Warning, Lane Keeping Assist, Adaptive Cruise Control, Traffic Sign Recognition, and a Driver Monitoring System.

NEWS

Proton S70 R3 race car is now ready to shake up Sepang 1000KM

Proton seems to be ready to shake up the Sepang International Circuit this year with its all-new race car, the Proton S70 R3.

Based on a video uploaded, the sedan was undergoing testing at the Proton Shah Alam circuit with the participation of Proton’s Deputy CEO, Roslan Abdullah.

At this time, Proton has not disclosed detailed specifications of the S70 race car.

However, based on the high engine roar of the S70 during testing on the large dyno machine, it is highly likely that the sedan retains the naturally aspirated Campro 1.6-liter engine used in previous Proton race cars.

 

In comparison to the previously revealed S70 R3 model, the S70 R3 race car comes with a larger rear spoiler, accompanied by Raxer Wheels wrapped in Hankook Ventus TD tires.

Furthermore, the S70 race car is equipped with various racing equipment such as racing seats, safety cage, Motec instrument display, and much more.

The last time Proton participated in the S1K race was in 2019, so what are your expectations for the actual performance of this Proton S70 R3?

Let’s all witness its appearance at the Sepang International Circuit together.

 

NEWS

Eligibility criteria for Class B licence upgrade have been relaxed immediately – Anthony Loke

The eligibility criteria for the Malaysian Driving Licence (LLM) Special Transition Programme for motorcyclists from class B1 and B2 to class B (high-powered motorcycles), which began yesterday, have been immediately relaxed following public complaints, according to Bernama.

Transport Minister Anthony Loke Siew Fook said one of the original conditions required individuals to hold an active LMM class B1 or B2 licence for at least 10 consecutive years.

After considering public feedback, the matter was discussed with Road Transport Department (JPJ) director-general Aedy Fadly Ramli, who agreed to ease the requirement.

“The condition has been relaxed with immediate effect, so now the LMM only needs to have been active for 10 years or more, without requiring those years to be consecutive,” he said at a press conference today.

He said that one of the reasons cited by the public was reasonable, which is being unable to renew their licences due to the Movement Control Order (MCO) in 2020.

At that time, the government granted an exemption to all licence holders from renewing their driving licences during the MCO period.

However, other conditions remain unchanged, including the requirement that applicants must not be on any blacklist or have outstanding summonses.

Loke added that updates will be made to ensure more applicants qualify and benefit from the programme.

“We are implementing this system change immediately to make it easier for the public. We ask for patience, and within a few days, applicants can participate in the programme at the involved driving institutes,” he said.

NEWS

MyDigital ID not needed to log into MyJPJ on Oct 10 – Anthony Loke

86 Comments

Transport Minister Anthony Loke announced that the public will not need to use MyDigital ID to log into the MyJPJ app starting October 10.

Loke stated that users of MyJPJ can log in and use the app as usual.

“The public need not worry that after October 10 they will not be able to use MyJPJ. The application will continue to be accessible easily and quickly,” he said.

The media previously reported that users will be required to log into the MyJPJ app using a MyDigital ID starting October 10.

MyDigital ID serves as a form of digital identification and self-verification of individuals, which will be utilised by both the public and private sectors to confirm user identity during online transactions.

According to Loke, the instruction regarding the necessity of using MyDigital ID in MyJPJ was issued through a pop-up announcement within the app.

He clarified that the instruction was not an official announcement from the Ministry of Transport or the Road Transport Department (JPJ) and had been retracted immediately.

“The information communicated through the MyJPJ pop-up may have caused confusion among the public. I’ve seen numerous comments on social media expressing concern and feedback regarding this information,” he said, adding that MyJPJ currently has 10.5 million users.

He noted that the ministry supports the use of MyDigital ID; however, the integration process with the MyJPJ app needs to be conducted on the backend.

“We have held discussions and reached an agreement that the use of MyDigital ID as a login for the MyJPJ app should be implemented smoothly. This is to ensure that users of MyJPJ face no issues, and we will take some time for the backend integration,” Loke added.

NEWS

Emory QiFeng is the new managing director of SAIC Motor Malaysia

89 Comments

SAIC Motor Malaysia has announced the appointment of Mr Emory QiFeng as its new Managing Director.

Emory Qi, who brings with him more than 25 years of experience in the global automotive industry, will lead the company as it continues to expand its footprint in the Malaysian market.

With a career spanning since 1998, Emory Qi has served in various leadership capacities within SAIC-Volkswagen Sales Co., Ltd, where he excelled in Network Planning and Development as well as After-Sales Strategy.

In 2023, he was appointed the Director of Global Business at SAIC Motor International Co., Ltd, where he contributed to the brand’s international growth strategy.

In 2024, Emory Qi joined SAIC Motor Malaysia as Chief Operating Officer, and has now been elevated to the role of Managing Director, where he will oversee all aspects of the company’s operations, including sales, marketing, and product strategy.

Emory Qi commented on his appointment: “It is an honour to step into this new role at SAIC Motor Malaysia during such an exciting time for the company. My focus will be on continuing the momentum we have built in this market, expanding our product offerings, and delivering a superior customer experience. I look forward to working with the talented team here to ensure that SAIC Motor Malaysia remains a key player in the automotive industry.”

NEWS

Malaysian-market BYD Dolphin, Atto 3 not affected by recall – Sime Darby Motors

Sime Darby Motors, the official distributor of BYD vehicles in Malaysia, has confirmed in a statement that the BYD models sold in the country are not involved in the recall campaign announced by BYD in China.

According to Sime Darby Motors, the recall is limited exclusively to vehicles sold in the Chinese market.

In the recall announcement, BYD Auto Industry Co., Ltd. and BYD Automobile Co., Ltd. stated that they are recalling “certain domestically produced Dolphin and Yuan Plus (also known as the Atto 3) electric vehicles.”

“The batches and models recalled within the China mainland region do not pertain to markets outside of the China mainland region,” the company said.

On September 30, CarNewsChina reported that BYD had recalled a total of 96,714 units of the Dolphin and Yuan Plus due to a potential fire risk.

Of this total, 87,762 units were manufactured between February 4, 2023, and December 26, 2023, while the remaining 8,952 units were produced between November 2, 2022, and June 19, 2023.

According to the China-based portal, there was a defect in the manufacturing process of the electric power steering column assembly (CEPS) controller.

When the equipment tool cover is closed, it may interfere with the capacitors on the controller circuit board, leading to micro-cracks in the capacitors.

These cracks could enlarge when the vehicle is in use, potentially resulting in a short circuit and an increased risk of fire.

To eliminate safety risks, BYD dealer representatives will install insulating pads on the control components free of charge.

NEWS

2026 Honda Prelude will pair a 2.0L hybrid engine with a manual gearbox!

31 Comments

The hot hatch Civic Type R FL5 appears to not be the last Honda sports model equipped with a manual transmission.

This is because in the latest news emerging from the Land of the Rising Sun, Honda is reported to offer the Prelude with a combination of a hybrid powertrain unit and a manual transmission.


According to sources quoted by Best Car, Honda engineers will match a 2.0-liter hybrid engine borrowed from the Accord model with a six-speed manual gearbox derived from the Civic RS.

It is also said to have the same rev-match function found in the Civic Type R model!

If this news indeed becomes a reality, the Honda Prelude will become Honda’s first hybrid model paired with a manual gearbox after the end of production of the CR-Z hybrid model in 2016.


In the Accord e:HEV model, the 2.0-liter Atkinson cycle hybrid engine is capable of generating up to 204 hp and 335 Nm of torque, channeled to the wheels through an e-CVT transmission.

The Honda Prelude is said to be based on the Honda Civic, with a wheelbase of 2,735 mm remaining constant but the overall length being only about 2,480 mm, shorter than the Civic.

This Honda Prelude will make its official debut in the second half of 2025.

NEWS

Royal Enfield organizes One Ride convoy across the world, 523 riders from Malaysia participated!

On the 22nd of September, the Royal Enfield motorcycle community organized a large-scale ‘One Ride’ convoy globally to celebrate the spirit of “Pure Motorcycling”.

Introduced since 2011, this event has been globally embraced in 43 countries, gathering enthusiasts of all ages and social identities while showcasing their unique personalities.

This year’s One Ride event carries the theme ‘Be Bold, Be Seen, Be One’, encouraging participants to practice safe riding, responsible travel, and to be a symbol of self-expression.


A total of over 41,730 motorcycle riders participated from 66 countries globally, with more than 6,200 entries coming from the Asia Pacific region.

The response in Malaysia was also remarkable, with 523 Royal Enfield motorcycle riders taking part in the One Ride event.

In addition to Malaysia, One Ride was also celebrated in several countries including Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Chile, Costa Rica, Colombia, Dubai, the Philippines, Ecuador, Indonesia, Italy, Germany, Japan, Cambodia, Korea, Mexico, France, Peru, Spain, Thailand, and Uruguay.

NEWS

2024 Mitsubishi Triton now open for booking, five variants, priced from RM102,000

64 Comments

Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia (MMM) today officially opened bookings for the sixth generation of the 2024 Mitsubishi Triton pickup truck model.

Offered in five variants, the estimated selling price of the Mitsubishi Triton starts from RM102,000 for the Single Cab variant, and from RM170,000 for the Triton Athlete variant.

The all-new Mitsubishi Triton brings significant exterior and interior changes.


It now features the new Beast Mode design language, a new 2.4-liter turbo diesel engine (4N16) capable of generating 184 PS/350 Nm of torque (Single Cab), or as high as 204 PS/470 Nm for the highest variant.

The new Triton also comes with a newly developed mega frame chassis offering durability and robustness, as well as a larger body size compared to the previous model.

The new suspension system now offers enhanced handling stability and driving comfort, accompanied by the Super Select-II four-wheel drive system and seven driving modes.

The safety aspect of this pickup truck has been enhanced with Active Yaw Control function, and the most advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS).


It also offers modern conveniences such as wireless device charging slot, support for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as various storage spaces available inside the cabin.

Finally, for those in need of a workhorse, the Triton Single Cab offers the largest cargo deck in its segment, with dimensions of 2,340 mm width and 1,580 mm length.

For the first 500 customers who book the Mitsubishi Triton 2024 pickup truck, they will receive a 60-liter foldable storage box valued at RM450.

NEWS

Global Toyota output dropped by 11.2 percent due to safety scandal, typhoon turmoil

Toyota Motor Corp confirmed in a statement last Friday that the total production volume globally in August decreased by 11.2 percent to 709,571 units compared to the same period last year.

This decline was caused by a vehicle certification test scandal and temporary factory closures due to a typhoon that struck Japan in late August.

Additionally, domestic production figures also decreased by 22.2 percent to 185,680 units as popular models such as Corolla Axio, Corolla Fielder, and Yaris Cross remained suspended since last June.

Toyota resumed the assembly operations of these three models at the beginning of September after the Japanese Ministry of Transport confirmed the vehicle safety aspects.

Domestic sales performance in Japan also recorded a decrease of 9.1 percent to 109,505 units.

Meanwhile, Toyota’s vehicle production outside of Japan also showed a decline, dropping by 6.5 percent to 523,891 units after a recall campaign involving the Grand Highlander and Lexus TX models in North America.

The Japanese manufacturer faces fierce competition in mainland China, where sales declined by 13.5 percent.

In addition to Toyota, Nissan experienced a 15.5 percent decrease to 236,016 units due to weak X-Trail SUV sales in China, while Honda witnessed an 11.3 percent decline to 307,870 units.

NEWS

TASKL 2024 announces the Honda Civic Type R FK8 Mugen as the grand prize lucky draw!

The organizers of the Tokyo Auto Salon Kuala Lumpur 2024 have announced a special grand prize lucky draw of a Honda Civic Type R FK8 Mugen for visitors this year.

The Tokyo Auto Salon KL 2024 event will take place from November 8th to 10th at the Malaysia International Trade & Exhibition Centre (MITEC).

The Civic Type R FK8 Mugen unit is a 2019 model that has not been registered yet.


With a 2.0-liter turbo engine producing 318 hp and 400 Nm of torque, and a manual gearbox, it is also equipped with genuine Mugen accessories such as body kits, gear knobs, taillights, 20-inch Rays TE37 rims, and an aftermarket exhaust system.

The lucky draw will be held at 8:00 pm on the main stage on November 10th, but worry not as the winner will be contacted directly by the organizers if not present at the location.

After three attempts to contact the winner, the organizers reserve the right to draw another name, and the winner will be required to answer three questions correctly.

Registration costs, including insurance, road tax, transportation, and other expenses, will be fully borne by the winner.

To stand a chance, visitors can purchase tickets at RM60 (or RM120 for three days) and add an additional RM28 to qualify for the lucky draw.

Here is the ticket price list: Adults: RM60 (one-day pass), RM120 (three-day pass) Children: RM30 (one-day pass), RM60 (three-day pass) OKU: 50% discount

TAS also introduces Express Lane tickets priced at RM80 for one day, or RM150 for three days, where buyers will be granted access to the VIP lounge.

Want something extra? Simply get the Black Tag access for RM1,500 to enjoy special benefits such as three-day access, free valet parking, Black Tag lounge access, complimentary drinks, access to Japan Pavilion Cars, exclusive TASKL 2024 limited edition merchandise, and much more.

Tokyo Auto Salon Kuala Lumpur is the only event held outside of Japan, hosted by Element X Strategies in collaboration with MUSE Group Asia, through cooperation with San Ei Corporation as the owner of the Tokyo Auto Salon and Tokyo Auto Salon Federation rights.

Last year, TASKL 2023 attracted over 91,000 visitors to fill the 130,000 square foot exhibition space.

For this year, TASKL 2024 offers a 170,000 square foot exhibition space, promising a unique experience.

NEWS

Five reasons why the Toyota Yaris remains relevant for youth

For the younger generation or those starting a new family who are in search of a new car, what features do you desire in a daily-use vehicle?

Compact size? Practicality? Fuel efficiency? Comprehensive safety features?

The answer to these questions can be found in the Toyota Yaris, which serves as an excellent example of a car that is highly relevant for young people in Malaysia.

Despite the overwhelming variety of attractive car models in the market, many young individuals may not realise that the Yaris still holds unique advantages.

1. Hatchback with Sporty Driving Experience

Equipped with a 1.5-litre inline four-cylinder engine delivering 107 hp and 140 Nm of torque, paired with a CVT, the Toyota Yaris offers a quiet and smooth driving experience while being fuel-efficient.

With exciting features like front and rear disc brakes, paddle shifters, and a Sport mode, young drivers should know that the Yaris is capable of delivering a sporty driving experience.

2. The Toyota Yaris is an Ideal First Car

Although it has a compact footprint, the Toyota Yaris can still provide a practical cabin layout and ample legroom for rear passengers.

Noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) levels have been enhanced with acoustic glass to reduce outside noise. Moreover, the audio volume is also lowered when you shift into reverse.

The 286-litre cargo space is adequate for personal belongings, making the Yaris an ideal first car for young people.

3. Comprehensive Safety Features

For a car priced under RM100,000, the Toyota Yaris comes equipped with excellent safety features, ideal for young people wanting to protect their families.

Examples include Hill Start Assist Control (HAC), a 360-degree Panorama View Monitor (PVM), Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA), as well as Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM), which displays live camera feed on the screen when the turn signals are activated.

The Toyota Yaris also comes with Toyota Safety Sense, which comprises Pre-Collision System (PCS) and Lane Departure Alert (LDA), ensuring a safer driving experience.

With seven airbags and six parking sensors (two front, four rear), the Toyota Yaris does not compromise on safety compared to more expensive vehicles.

4. Features Highly Appreciated by Women Drivers

The sporty package means little if the car lacks driver-friendly functions.

In addition to Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, there’s also an auto-dimming rearview mirror, automatic folding side mirrors, and a full-size spare tyre.

Not to forget, the Toyota Yaris now comes with front and rear dashcams!

For the ladies who are solo drivers or often drive home in the middle of the night, you’ll appreciate the “Follow Me Home” feature available in the Toyota Yaris.

5. Outstanding After-Sales Support from Toyota

An extensive specification list does not inherently guarantee user loyalty.

What gives young people confidence in the Toyota Yaris is the comprehensive and high-value after-sales support network from Toyota, covering aspects of purchasing, ownership, as well as service and maintenance.

The Toyota Yaris is available starting from RM88,000, and with promotions worth up to RM9,500, you can enjoy monthly installments as low as RM658.

For more information, visit your nearest Toyota showroom or click the link HERE.

NEWS

MOT to tighten heavy vehicle integrated operation

The Ministry of Transport will continue to tighten and expand the integrated operation on heavy vehicles including lorries to ensure that drivers comply with the rules and are not driving under the influence of drugs, according to Bernama.

Its minister Anthony Loke said operations had previously been carried out by the Road Transport Department (JPJ) which targeted express and sightseeing bus drivers and found that many drivers tested positive for drugs.

“This is a problem that was taken seriously and we have launched an integrated operation in the last two months, now we are focusing on commercial and heavy vehicles… stricter operations will be held to ensure that drivers driving these heavy vehicles comply with the rules.

“Previously we targeted (operations) in some industrial areas and so on, so now we will expand it so that they are more careful,” he told reporters after officiating the 20th Negeri Sembilan DAP Ordinary Convention here today.

He was commenting on two cases of fatal accidents in this district recently involving two lorries and based on the police investigations, it was found that the drivers of the lorries were found positive for methamphetamine.

In the meantime, Loke once again reminded that the owner or operator of the company who has a driver tested positive for drugs resulting in an accident, will also face action.

He said this is because company owners have a responsibility to ensure that their drivers are prudent and do not abuse their license and position or commit traffic offences.

“Not only the driver (faces action) but the company owner, we have done this in the case of the excursion bus that overturned and claimed two lives on the road in Genting Highlands on June 29, where the driver and the company owner were charged in court for negligence,” he said.

NEWS

Chevrolet Groove: another Latin NCAP zero-star car

The Chevrolet Groove is a crossover model sold in the Latin American and Middle Eastern markets.

The model is a rebadged version of the Baojun 510 produced by SAIC-GM-Wuling.

Unfortunately, it has also become one of the models that failed in the Latin America new car assessment program (Latin NCAP) test, with a zero-star score covering 39.42 percent in adult occupant protection, 68.57 percent in child occupant protection, 36.37 percent for pedestrian protection, and 58.14 percent in safety assist.

In the frontal crash scope, the vehicle exhibited an unstable structure, while protection for the driver’s chest, knees, and legs was only marginal.

Side-impact collision testing also revealed intrusion into the passenger compartment.


The small SUV also offers weak protection for pedestrian head, while protection for leg impact was also considered poor.

Latin NCAP urges consumers to refrain from purchasing this Groove crossover until Chevrolet produces a safer version.

For information, the standard Chevrolet Groove comes with four airbags without any advanced driver assistance systems offered as an option.

Chevrolet is not the only major manufacturer implicated in such situations.

Another small crossover, the Toyota Raize (Perodua Ativa’s twin), also received a zero-star score in the latest Latin NCAP assessment test earlier this month.

NEWS

Xiaomi 14T & 14T Pro flagship smartphones launched in Malaysia – from RM1,899

104 Comments

The Xiaomi 14T Series flagship smartphones have been launched in the Malaysian market. According to Xiaomi, the new series is specifically designed for photography enthusiasts, with a focus on exceptional night-time shooting.

The Xiaomi 14T lineup includes:

  • 14T 12GB+256GB (RM1,899)
  • 14T 12GB+512GB (RM2,199)
  • 14T Pro 12GB+256GB (RM2,599)
  • 14T Pro 12GB+512GB (RM2,999)
  • 14T Pro 12GB+1TB (RM3,499)

Both the 14T and 14T Pro feature Leica cameras powered by Xiaomi AISP, enhances dynamic range and reduces noise for extraordinary detail and vibrant colours even in challenging lighting.

Additionally, the series supports UltraHDR format and the Master Portrait mode, the latter of which ensures layered, detailed portrait photos with enhanced depth, clarity, and a natural bokeh effect.

The 14T Pro is equipped with a triple-camera system, featuring a 50MP main camera with an ƒ/1.6 aperture, a Leica Summilux optical lens, and a Light Fusion 9000 image sensor. The 14T, while also having a triple-camera system, has a slightly smaller ƒ/1.7 aperture and uses a Sony IMX906 sensor.

The 14T series also incorporates AI features to enhance everyday tasks, including AI Interpreter, AT Notes, AI Recorder, AI Image Editing, AI Eraser Pro, AI Film, and AI Portrait.

Through its collaboration with Google, the 14T series introduces the Circle to Search, making it one of the first Xiaomi devices to offer the feature. Also included is the Google Gemini app.

On the hardware front, the 14T series boasts a 6.67-inch AMOLED CrystalRes display with a resolution of 1.5K (2712 x 1220) and a pixel density of 446 ppi. The 14T is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 8300-Ultra processor, while the 14T Pro features the MediaTek Dimensity 9300+ processor.

Both models come with a 5000mAh battery, but with different charging capacities: 67W HyperCharge for the 14T and 120W HyperCharge for the 14T Pro. Additionally, the Pro version includes 50W wireless charging functionality.

The 14T is available in Titan Blue, Titan Black, and Lemon Green, while the 14T Pro comes in Titan Gray, Titan Blue, and Titan Black.

NEWS

WCE Section 1 toll collection begins on Monday

After a month of operating for free, the West Coast Expressway (WCE) Section 1 (Banting-SKVE) will commence toll collection on September 30, 2024, at 12:01 AM.

The toll rates applied on Section 1 of the WCE Expressway are fully integrated with the SKVE Expressway through the Tanjung Dua Belas Interchange, taking into account the entire journey of users, including the section of the journey on the SKVE Expressway.

Toll collection will be fully implemented electronically using Touch ‘N Go cards, Smart Tags, and RFID.

Users are advised to ensure that their e-wallet balance and Touch ‘N Go cards are sufficient before starting the journey to avoid any difficulties at the toll plaza.

EV, NEWS

Volvo vows not to produce EV designs resembling Apple mouse

Electric cars that prioritize high aerodynamic efficiency and low drag coefficient are indeed capable of offering benefits in terms of longer range.

However, their drawback is that they will not have the sleek design of traditional cars that exist in the market.

The closest examples you can see are the designs of any electric sedan by Mercedes-Benz, such as the EQS, EQE, and the concept model Vision EQXX.

Speaking to the automotive website Drive Australia, Florian Mockenhaupt, Volvo’s Senior Exterior Design Manager, said, “It’s not about aesthetic value, but producing a car that looks like an Apple mouse will come with various compromises.”

He added that Volvo’s future cars will benefit from improved aerodynamics while maintaining the comfort aspect desired by customers.

Mockenhaupt also emphasized that Volvo will not employ the “same sausage, different lengths” strategy used by some competitors from Germany.

According to Automotive News, the CEO of Volvo confirmed that the brand will launch up to 10 new generation models and updated versions over the next 24 months.

Two of these will be the all new EX60 crossover and the ES90 sedan, which will be offered in both EV and plug-in hybrid (PHEV) versions.

Volvo ES90 official teaser
NEWS

BFGoodrich launches all-terrain T/A KO3 tires, available in 62 sizes, starting from RM825

BFGoodrich Malaysia has launched its latest All-Terrain T/A KO3 tires, offering 62 size options with prices starting from RM852.

According to BFGoodrich, the T/A KO3 tires are designed to provide a longer lifespan, greater toughness, improved grip, and shorter stopping distances compared to the KO2 tires.


The T/A KO3 tires feature a new tread pattern designed to evenly distribute pressure, ensuring greater durability.

In addition to the CoreGard protection technology, the T/A KO3 tires also boast deeper 3D locking grooves, aggressive shoulder design, and mud-phobic bars to ensure excellent traction in mud and snow.

The tire’s formulation enables it to offer a stopping distance 4.2 meters shorter than that of the KO2 tires.

Prichapakorn Dangrojana, the Managing Director of Michelin Malaysia, Singapore, and Brunei, stated, “Our commitment at BFGoodrich has always been to provide products that meet the highest standards of performance and durability, and the All-Terrain T/A KO3 tires are no exception.

“Through continuous improvements in our world-class tire technology, we are excited to introduce the BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO3 tires to the Malaysian market. It symbolizes BFGoodrich’s innovative vision to exceed the expectations of our customers, who deserve the best for their vehicles, no matter their destination.”


BFGoodrich Malaysia will introduce more than 62 sizes over the next 24 months, with 39 sizes to be launched in three phases starting from September 2024. An additional 19 sizes will be made available in 2025, while four sizes will be launched in 2026.

BFGoodrich Malaysia sells the all-terrain T/A KO3 tires starting from RM825 up to RM2,946.

The recommended retail price for the BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO3 tires will range from RM825 to RM2946.

NEWS

Kia Tasman takes on the formidable Al Qudra desert

You may already know that Kia is busy developing its very first pickup truck, known as the Tasman.

In the latest development, the automaker announced that the Tasman is currently undergoing its next phase of testing in the deserts of Al Qudra, United Arab Emirates.

Previously, the ladder-frame pickup truck had undergone various tests, including off-road driving in the rugged Alabama Hills, California, water wading, and on-track driving to evaluate its handling, chassis strength, and towing capabilities.

This time, a pre-production prototype of the Tasman was flown to the Al Qudra desert to ensure it can handle extreme hot weather and challenging driving conditions.

According to Kia, the pickup truck has been subjected to at least 1,777 different types of tests, with over 18,000 rounds of tests have been completed so far.

No technical details have been announced yet. However, reports indicate that the Tasman is likely to feature a 2.2-litre turbodiesel engine similar to the one used in the Sorento, and could be offered in two-wheel drive and four-wheel drive guises.

Additionally, the Tasman is said to boast a maximum payload of up to 998 kg and a towing capacity of nearly 3.5 tonnes.

Exactly where the Tasman will be sold is still unknown, but reports from South Korea suggest it will likely be offered in the Middle East, Africa, and Australia.

The Tasman is expected to make its global debut at the Jeddah International Motor Show in Saudi Arabia, which will take place from October 29 to November 2.

NEWS

Toyota hopes the new 2.0L turbo engine can surpass the legendary 2JZ

As previously reported, Toyota is developing a new generation of inline four-cylinder engines, 1.5 and 2.0 liters, in order to achieve carbon neutrality targets.

With a more compact and lighter size, the new generation engines are expected to be more powerful while also offering better fuel efficiency.

Toyota holds high hopes for the new engines, to the extent that one of the company’s engineers believes it can surpass the highly popular 2JZ engine among enthusiasts. This was revealed by a journalist from Kuruma News attending an event hosted by Lexus recently.

At the event, Japanese media practitioners were given the opportunity to test the Toyota Hilux and Lexus IS equipped with the new 2.0-liter turbo engine.


Both models have different power outputs, with the Hilux generating 300 hp at a redline of 6,200 rpm, while the Lexus IS is capable of producing 400 hp with a higher redline (7,100 rpm).

According to Kuruma News, despite the differing power outputs, both models have almost no turbo lag and, at the same time, offer an enjoyable driving experience.

Another Japanese media outlet, Best Car Web, revealed that Lexus may be developing a prototype Lexus RC with 600 hp. The prototype model is said to have a six-speed manual gearbox and is being developed for motorsports.

It is not impossible that one day this 600 hp prototype RC model will also be offered under the high-performance Lexus F division.