The new generation of Mitsubishi Triton has not been launched in Malaysia yet, but in Thailand, the pickup truck is already offered in a limited edition guise known as the Black Edition.
Based on the Double Cab Plus Ultra AT variant, the Triton Black Edition is available in two exterior colour options, namely Graphite Grey and White Diamond.
Regardless of the chosen colour, the truck comes with black exterior elements as seen on the Dynamic Shield grille, fog lamp covers, 18-inch alloy wheels, side mirror covers, door handles, and tailgate handle.
On top of that, the side steps and rear bumper are given smoked titanium accents to give the Triton an even more menacing look.
Inside, the cabin carries on the dark theme with a black seat upholstery, door panels, and dashboard, contrasted with white stitching and a white headliner.
Standard features include a nine-inch touchscreen with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, and an ADAS system encompassing features like the Forward Collision Mitigation System (FCM), Blind Spot Warning (BSW), Lane Change Assist (LCA), Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA), to name a few.
Powering the Triton Black Edition is Mitsubishi’s new Hyper Power 2.4-litre four-cylinder turbodiesel engine producing 184 PS and 430 Nm. It is only available with a six-speed automatic transmission.
Pricing starts at 1,027,000 baht (RM132,666). Mitsubishi says the Triton Black Edition will be offered in limited numbers, although the exact figures have not been disclosed.
KOENIGSEGG surprised the world by announcing the Gemera engine with a three-cylinder. This is a departure from the usual V8 engines associated with the Swedish manufacturer.
The powerful 2.0-liter three-cylinder engine, combined with electric motors, did not attract many Koenigsegg customers. They are more interested in the V8-powered Gemera.
The CEO, Christian von Koenigsegg, revealed in an interview about the cancellation of this three-cylinder engine. He mentioned that they are not completely abandoning this technology.
Christian stated that they will continue to develop this engine, which may be used in the Gemera or other versions. However, the V8 engine seems to be more popular, unfortunately.
The 2.0-liter engine named Tiny Friendly Giant is part of a hybrid system consisting of the three-cylinder unit along with three electric motors. This package provides a total output of 1,700hp and 3,499Nm of torque.
The four-seater supercar can reach 100km/h in just 1.9 seconds and achieve a top speed of 400km/h.
For now, the Gemera will only be offered with a V8 engine, according to Christian, who is not surprised by its popularity.
The V8 5.0-liter twin-turbo engine produces 2,300hp and 2,750Nm of torque using E85 fuel. Production is scheduled to start at the end of this year, with deliveries expected to begin early next year.
UMW Toyota Motor invites Malaysians interested in Gran Turismo 7 simulation racing to witness the final round of the 2024 Toyota Gazoo Racing GT Cup season 7 at Sunway University Campus from 27th to 28th July.
The two-day event is open to the public, where the semi-final round will be held on 27th July to select the fastest simulation racers who will compete on 28th July for a total prize of RM120,500.
The semi-final stage will see 20 racers driving the Toyota GR Corolla MORIZO Edition at Alsace circuit in France, as well as the Toyota GR Supra RZ at the Deep Forest Raceway circuit in Switzerland.
The top 10 fastest participants will advance to the final stage to race the GR010 prototype car at Monza circuit in Italy and the GR Supra Racing Concept car at Circuit De La Sarthe Le Mans circuit in France.
Notable contenders this year include Taj Izrin Aiman Taj Madira vying for his fourth championship title, competing against last year’s runner-up Danesh Wigneswaran and Chong Kai Chang, as well as 2022 champion Muhammad Iqbal.
The GR GT Cup final will also feature a special race involving TGR Rookies, media practitioners, and the top 10 fastest racers from the GR Tour, comprising students from Sunway University, USM Nibong Tebal, MMU, UKM, and UiTM Pasir Gudang.
The public is also invited to test their racing skills and stand a chance to win special prizes.
There will also be a showcase of Tomica diecast vehicle models and exclusive Gazoo Racing merchandise for purchase, as well as displays of the latest Toyota vehicles.
UMW Toyota President, Datuk Ravindran K, stated, “Simulation racing is evolving globally and is now recognized as a crucial step for individuals aspiring to transition to real racing.
“It is also a vital prerequisite in the selection and training of candidates wishing to join the Gazoo Racing Young Driver Development Program to compete as a Rookie in the GR Vios Challenge,” he added.
Chery Corporate Malaysia announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Belia Mahir Project, a non-governmental entity under the National Skilled Workers Organisation.
This collaboration symbolises a significant commitment aimed at fostering career opportunities for Malaysian youth. The collaboration between Chery Corporate Malaysia and Belia Mahir Project is set to bridge the gap between education and employment for skilled workers, offering a seamless transition from graduation to gainful employment within the automotive industry.
This initiative will not only secure promising career paths for the graduates but will also empower them to apply and enhance their skills in promoting best practices within the Malaysian automotive sector.
The Belia Mahir Project actively works to support youths who are not in employment, education or training (NEET) by providing access to higher education and skills training through partnerships with higher education institutions and vocational training centres.
Additionally, the project aids in securing job placements for this target group across various industrial sectors.
“With the recent launch of Chery’s assembly plant in Shah Alam, Selangor, and more in the pipeline, we aim to cultivate a robust workforce of skilled professionals to maintain our commitment to delivering high-quality vehicles and services to our valued customers,” said Executive Vice President of Chery Corporate Malaysia, Leo Chen.
Upon completion of their training and education programmes, graduates recommended by the Belia Mahir Project will have the opportunity to join Chery Corporate Malaysia’s offices and assembly plants nationwide.
The partnership offers selected candidates the chance to contribute to China’s largest vehicle exporter brand, gaining invaluable experience in the automotive industry.
Qualified individuals will receive a competitive minimum monthly income of RM2000, inclusive of comprehensive staff benefits.
“By empowering local talent and fostering collaboration, we are not only supporting Malaysia’s industrial and energy transition goals but also contributing to the growth and development of the automotive industry in the country,” Leo said.
He added that he looks forward to welcoming the talented individuals who will play a pivotal role in advancing Chery’s mission to join the company.
The collaboration between Belia Mahir Project and Chery Corporate Malaysia represents a significant step towards bridging the gap between education and employment for Malaysian youth, ensuring a skilled workforce ready to thrive in the automotive sector.
\The MoU was exchanged with Belia Mahir Project and was acknowledged by Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi who is also the National Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Council chairman during the flag-off ceremony for participants of TVET initiatives programmes by the Malaysian-China Institute (MCI).
As car enthusiasts, we all naturally worship beautiful, fast, and powerful cars. But there’s no denying that the automotive world has also brought forth so many peculiar cars that have their own unique appeal.
Let’s take a look at the 10 weirdest and strangest cars to ever roam the earth:
BMW Isetta
When talking about BMW, the image of sports sedans like the M3 and M5 instantly comes to mind. But did you know that in 1955, BMW made this egg-shaped car? Its door was located at the front, and when opened, the entire dashboard and steering wheel would move along with the door.
Peel P50
Another microcar on this list is the P50, produced by Peel Engineering Company in 1962. It had a door on the left side and could accommodate only one passenger. Interestingly, it can still be purchased today either fully assembled from the factory or as a kit car.
Stout Scarab
Dubbed the world’s first minivan, the Stout Scarab was the handiwork of former Ford employee and designer of the Ford Trimotor aircraft, William Bushnell Stout. Its engine was placed at the rear, and the cabin space could accommodate up to six passengers.
Polaris Slingshot
Polaris refers to the Slingshot as a motorcycle, but with two seats and a steering wheel, it’s no wonder many consider it a car. It is powered by a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine delivering 203 hp to the single rear wheel.
Amphicar
As you may have guessed from the name, the Amphicar is an amphibious car, meaning it can be used on both land and water. This German-made car uses its front tyres as rudders and can move at speeds of up to 7 knots.
Pea Car
Unlike the other cars on this list, the Pea Car is not a production model. Instead, it was designed by a London company to be used in a Birds Eye Peas television advertisement in 2005. It is said to have a Honda engine that allows it to reach speeds of up to 97 km/h.
Ferrari 512S Modulo
You probably didn’t expect a Ferrari to be on a list of weird cars, did you? Designed by Pininfarina, this car was first introduced at the Geneva Motor Show in 1970. It has a wedge shape, a canopy roof that slides to enable egress and ingress, and a V12 engine producing 550 hp.
Fiat Multipla
Any list of weird or ugly cars would not be complete without the Fiat Multipla, which looks like two cars stacked on one another. From the outside, it may look strange, but we’re sure its interior space is quite generous, which is probably the only good thing about it.
Reliant Regal Supervan
A familiar sight to all Mr. Bean fans, the Reliant Regal Supervan gained its reputation as one of the weirdest cars in the world mainly due to its three-wheel configuration. The extraordinary setup made it very unstable, as often shown in the popular British sitcom.
Tesla Cybertruck
It goes without saying that the Cybertruck is the strangest vehicle ever produced. In terms of performance and features, we’re sure it’s quite impressive, but its highly angular exterior or “exoskeleton” looks like it was designed by a child who has just learned how to use a ruler.
The smart device manufacturer Xiaomi is not satisfied with its existing SU7 car product.
In order to provide a more intense competition to high-performance EVs in the market, the manufacturer is now unveiling the full carbon prototype model Xiaomi SU7 Ultra.
At the same time, Xiaomi also announced the debut of an electric power unit called the HyperEngine V8s.
It is not a typical V8 engine, instead, the HyperEngine V8s is an electric motor capable of producing a maximum power of 578 PS and a torque of 635 Nm, with a speed reaching 27,200 rpm!
In the SU7 Ultra model, Xiaomi combines two electric motors, the HyperEngine V8s, and a V6s electric motor, with a total output reaching 1,548 PS that powers all wheels!
With Pirelli P Zero tires, the Xiaomi SU7 Ultra can accelerate from 0-100 km/h in just 1.97 seconds, 0-200 km/h in 5.97 seconds, and reach 300 km/h in just 15 seconds.
The maximum speed is about 350 km/h.
The Qilin 2.0 battery pack, sourced from CATL, is specifically designed for racing, capable of discharging a peak power of up to 1,808 PS.
Although the battery pack has a SoC of about 20 percent, it is still capable of discharging power as high as 1,088 PS!
Unlike the standard SU7, the SU7 Ultra features a full carbon fiber body construction, complete with a body kit (front splitter and diffuser, rear wing, massive diffuser) said to generate a downforce of 2,145 kg at a speed of 350 km/h.
Yet, the Xiaomi SU7 Ultra is still a high-performance sedan with a weight close to 2 tons, or more precisely 1,900 kg.
The brake system consists of six-piston AP Racing calipers on the front and rear axles, as well as racing brake pads capable of withstanding temperatures above 800 degrees Celsius.
Under full braking conditions, the Xiaomi SU7 Ultra is capable of generating over 2.36G of deceleration, with a stopping distance of just 25 meters from 100-0 km/h.
Xiaomi plans to set a new record in the four-door electric sedan category at the Nurburgring Circuit in October.
Currently, the fastest record is held by the Porsche Taycan Turbo GT with a time of 7:07.55 minutes.
AirAsia announced the expansion of its operations in Malaysia to the Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah Airport (LTSAAS), also known as Subang Airport, solidifying its position as the nation’s biggest airline in terms of connectivity and capacity.
The expansion that complements its operations at its main hub at the Kuala Lumpur International Airport (Terminal 2) will provide travellers not only additional connectivity but a more convenient option due to its vicinity to the city.
AirAsia’s operations at Subang Airport will commence with two domestic destinations namely Kuching and Kota Kinabalu with 14 flights weekly. The inaugural operation is set to commence on 30 August 2024 marking a significant milestone in the airline’s history and the revitalisation of Subang Airport.
Tony Fernandes, CEO of Capital A as well as Advisor and Steward of AirAsia Aviation Group said: “Subang Airport holds a special place in my heart, and it is exciting to witness its resurgence as one of the key players in Malaysia’s aviation landscape.
“The government’s decision to revitalise the airport into a regional aviation hub aligns perfectly with our mission to continue revolutionising the aviation industry as the increased air traffic and passenger flow generated by our operations will have multiplier effects on related industries, driving economic growth and development in the region.”
“AirAsia’s homecoming to Subang Airport is not just nostalgic but also strategic. Capital A’s engineering arm, Asia Digital Engineering (ADE), has operations based there, enhancing the efficiency and streamlining of our aircraft maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) activities.
“Repainting Subang Airport red symbolises not just a return to our roots, but a commitment to our growth journey and contribution to the prosperity of the communities we serve. This is a step in the right direction for the nation’s aviation industry, and we are thrilled to lead this visionary move.”
In celebration of the announcement, AirAsia offers promotional fares for flights from Subang to Kuching from RM88 all-in* one-way and to Kota Kinabalu from RM99 all-in* one-way, inclusive of complimentary** 15kg checked-in baggage allowance.
The promotional fares are available for booking on AirAsia MOVE app (previously known as airasia Superapp) and airasia.com starting today until 28 July 2024 for the travel period between 30 August 2024 and 8 Oct 2025.
BENTLEY has constructed its last W12 engine, signalling the end of the era of the 12-cylinder engine that has been the beating heart of the Bentayga, Continental GT, and Flying Spur.
According to Bentley, over 100,000 units of the W12 engine have been hand-built at its Dream Factory in Crewe, England since it was introduced in the original Continental GT in 2003.
Essentially, the engine is a combination of two narrow-angle V6 engines sharing a common crankshaft, making it 24% shorter than a conventional V12 engine.
With new intake, exhaust, turbocharging and intercooling systems developed in-house by Bentley’s engineers, the engine developed 552 hp and 649 Nm of torque in its early days.
Thanks to continuous improvements, including the use of twin-scroll turbocharging in 2015, the iconic engine is now capable of delivering 740 hp and 1,000 Nm, as seen in the Batur.
As a toast to the engine for one last time, Bentley offered 120 units of the “Speed Edition 12” models for Bentayga, Continental GT, Continental GT Convertible and Flying Spur.
Unique features include Edition 12 badging, treadplates, seat embroidery, fascia inlays, and numbered engine plaque. Owners also received a commemorative scale model of the W12 engine block.
The decision to end W12 engine production is in line with Bentley’s Beyond100 strategy, which focuses on sustainability.
Taking over the baton is the new Ultra High Performance Hybrid powertrain, which combines a 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 engine and an electric motor sandwiched between the mill and transmission.
The new engine has a total power output of 771 hp (782 PS) and 1,000 Nm, and will make its debut in the 2025 Continental GT Speed.
Honda North America has updated the offerings for the 2025 Civic Si variant, showcasing some cosmetic changes, a sportier chassis, and most importantly, retaining the manual transmission option!
It may be seen as an alternative to the more expensive Civic Type R, but unfortunately, the selling price of the Civic Si has increased by
$850 (RM3,972) to $29,950 (RM140k).
In terms of power, the 2025 Civic Si still retains the heartbeat of a 1.5-liter inline-four engine producing around 200 hp and 260 Nm, driving the front wheels as usual.
Certainly, the handling aspect of this ‘budget Civic Type R’ has been enhanced, now featuring a stiffer chassis including new B-pillars and door sill support.
Suspension damping components have also been recalibrated, with Honda promising improvements in terms of torsional rigidity and flexibility.
For those seeking more driving enjoyment, Honda has also enhanced the rev-match function, especially when shifting from second to first gear.
Cosmetically, what the 2025 Civic Si brings is essentially the same as the existing facelifted 2025 Civic.
However, the Civic Si has been given a set of twin-spoke black alloy wheels for a sportier look.
The cabin also receives a 9-inch infotainment display now supporting Google Assistant, along with standard support for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration.
For the 10.2-inch digital cluster screen, exclusive graphics are available for the Civic Si model including a digital tachometer, gear change light indicator, boost gauge, and G-force meter.
Finally, the 2025 Civic Si comes equipped with a pair of snug sports seats for the driver and front passenger, in addition to standard built-in heating function.
On a less joyful note, since its introduction in 1984, the Honda Civic Si has remained an exclusive model for certain market such as United States (and Japan for a brief period), unlike the broader market reach of the Civic Type R.
The latest 2024 MASERATI Grecale is now open for booking in the Malaysian market. Those interested can choose between two variants, namely the GT starting from RM634,889 or the Trofeo starting from RM1,100,000.
Grecale GT
The Grecale GT is still equipped with a 2.0-liter turbo 4-cylinder petrol engine with a mild hybrid BSG system. This package delivers a total output of 300hp at 5,750rpm and 450Nm from 2,000 to 4,000rpm.
This output is transmitted to all wheels through an 8-speed automatic gearbox and an AWD system with the option of a rear limited-slip differential (LSD).
The acceleration performance is 5.6 seconds for 0 to 100km/h, while 0-200 can be achieved in 23.7 seconds. The maximum speed is 240km/h. The Grecale GT is also equipped with double-wishbone suspension at the front and multilink at the rear.
There are options for active and adaptive shock absorbers as well as air suspension. The brakes are 350mm at the front and 330mm at the rear, with 20-inch rims.
Grecale Trofeo
Meanwhile, the Grecale Trofeo is a more powerful variant, with a 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 engine, generating 530hp at 6,500rpm and 620Nm from 3,000 to 5,500rpm.
The transmission is the same, with an all-wheel-drive system and an 8-speed automatic gearbox. However, the Grecale Trofeo comes with standard electronic rear LSD.
The higher output allows the Grecale Trofeo to accelerate to 100km/h in just 3.8 seconds, and to 200km/h in 13.8 seconds. The maximum speed is also higher, at 285km/h. Air suspension comes standard for the Trofeo.
The brakes for the Grecale Trofeo are 360mm at the front and 350mm at the rear, with 21-inch rims. Other standard features of the Maserati Grecale 2024 include the Vehicle Dynamic Control Module (VDCM) with four modes: Comfort, GT, Sport, and Off-Road.
The 2024 Grecale also comes with a 12.3-inch display for the driver’s instruments and another 12.3-inch infotainment screen. The third screen is 8.8 inches for additional controls.
The audio system is still Sonus Fiber, as before, with 21 speakers, in addition to Saffionao leather trim on the dashboard and door panels. All Maserati Grecale models in Malaysia also come with a three-year unlimited mileage warranty, which can be extended to ten years.
Say hello to the 2024 Lexus LBX, a compact SUV freshly launched for the Malaysian market.
The Lexus LBX (Lexus Breakthrough X-over) is positioned as the entry-level Lexus vehicle designed for younger consumers and those seeking a vehicle that caters to an active lifestyle.
It is the first Lexus vehicle built on the global TNGA-B platform, meaning it shares the same platform as the Yaris Cross model in the European market.
The Lexus LBX is designed based on the Lexus Next Chapter Design approach, retaining the signature Lexus identity with a more casual and relaxed character.
At the front, the Lexus LBX features a frameless spindle grille structure that is more aerodynamic, along with a single projector headlamp unit with Auto High Beam function integrating cornering lamps and LED daytime running lights (DRL).
The LBX’s bold appearance is also heightened by its wide shoulder structure, complemented by a sleek rear lamp design connected by a thin LED bar.
For the Malaysian market, the Lexus LBX is only offered with a 1.5-liter hybrid electric powertrain (code M15A-FXE), producing a high output of 136 hp and 185 Nm of torque paired with an 8-speed eCVT transmission. Acceleration from 0-100 km/h is around 9.2 seconds.
The Lexus LBX’s cabin adopts the Tazuna concept approach where the layout of the dashboard and controls are positioned around the driver to create a more focused driving space. Available features include a 12.3-inch digital cluster screen (7 inches for the Premium model), a 9.8-inch center screen, support for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and the Mark Levinson Premium Surround Sound audio system with 13 speakers (6 units for the LBX Premium).
The Lexus LBX also benefits from comprehensive safety features, thanks to the Lexus Safety System+ which includes Pre-Collision Warning, Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Lane Tracing Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, Road Sign Assist, Safe Exit Assist, Lexus Teammate Advanced Park, Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, and Blind Spot Monitoring System.
There are two variants offered for the Malaysian market, namely Premium and Luxury, with prices starting from RM238,888.
Lotus Cars Malaysia has announced the arrival of another model of electric Hyper Grand Tourer, the Lotus Emeya, to the Malaysian market.
The electric-powered Hyper-GT machine is set to be launched in the near future, but interested customers can register for an exclusive preview session at Pavilion Kuala Lumpur starting from July 30 to August 4 through THIS link.
The Lotus Emeya is among the most powerful four-door GTs in the world.
With specifications of two electric motors, it is capable of generating up to 905 hp and 985 Nm of torque paired with a two-speed transmission.
Acceleration from 0-100 km/h is as quick as 2.78 seconds before reaching a top speed exceeding 250 km/h.
The Lotus Emeya showcases a range of advanced active aerodynamic features, such as the active front grille structure first seen on the hyper SUV model, Eletre.
The front grille structure is designed to reduce drag and increase the car’s efficiency when closed, but can be used for battery cooling and brake system purposes when opened.
Additionally, there is an active air dam that can enhance downforce at high speeds to improve handling and stability, an active rear spoiler inspired by motorsport, and a dual-layer active rear spoiler capable of generating over 215 kg of downforce.
The Lotus Emeya’s battery pack can offer a range between 490 km to 600 km depending on the variant, as well as support fast DC charging up to 350 kW.
This means owners can extend the range by up to 150 km in just five minutes, or charge from 10-80 percent in just 18 minutes.
The Lotus Emeya also comes with various ADAS features including lane departure warning, forward collision warning, and blind-spot monitoring system, where all essential data can be displayed via a 55-inch augmented reality (AR) head-up screen.
Interested customers can place a reservation deposit of RM5,000 and any inquiries can be directed to Lotus Cars Malaysia at 016-611 2388.
Ford will begin to introduce some electrification for their Super Duty truck lineup. This news may not be very significant for the Malaysian market as the model is not sold here, but for those of you following the developments in the automotive world, this is a sign of the direction of a major global manufacturer.
Ford announced that they will build a third Super Duty assembly plant at the Oakville Assembly Complex in Ontario, Canada, which will start producing vehicles in 2026. This move will increase the production figure for the trucks to 100,000 units per year.
There are not many details available at the moment, but Ford stated that the Oakville plant will “pave the way to bring multi-powertrain technologies to the new generation of Super Duty trucks, giving customers more freedom to choose and support Ford’s electrification plan”.
We can infer that “multi-powertrain” refers to hybrid technology. However, whether it’s a plug-in hybrid, mild hybrid, or hydrogen fuel cell, we do not yet know.
This announcement comes as Ford, like other vehicle manufacturers, is reconsidering its future plans for fully electric vehicles (EVs). The Oakville plant was originally established to produce a three-row EV SUV.
Ford still has plans to produce this EV SUV, but has not decided when and where it will begin production. It was initially planned for 2025, then delayed until 2027. It could be delayed further.
Currently, the Ford Super Duty in North America is offered with the option of a 6.7-liter V8 diesel engine with 500hp and 1,626Nm of torque, as well as a 7.3-liter V8 petrol engine with an output of 430hp and 657Nm of torque.
“Super Duty is a vital tool for businesses and people around the world and, even with our Kentucky Truck Plant and Ohio Assembly Plant running flat out, we can’t meet the demand,” said Ford CEO Jim Farley.
“This move benefits our customers and supercharges our Ford Pro commercial business. At the same time, we look forward to introducing three-row electric utility vehicles, leveraging our experience in three-row utility vehicles and our learnings as America’s number two electric vehicle brand to deliver fantastic, profitable vehicles.”
DUCATI Malaysia has announced the arrival of two exciting models to the local market, namely the DesertX Rally and the limited-edition Monster 30° Anniversario.
DesertX Rally
As the range-topping variant in its range, the DesertX Rally boasts an array of features designed to enhance off-road riding experience.
Key specifications include:
High-performance, fully adjustable KYB race suspension with closed cartridge technology and special surface treatments (Kashima coating on outer, DLC on inner) for enhanced durability and consistent off-road performance.
Heavy-duty tubed wheelset with Takasago EXCEL rims, billet aluminium hubs, and carbon steel spokes. 0.5 kg lighter than the standard DesertX wheelset, offering better off-road durability and tyre compatibility.
Carbon sump guard and billet aluminium rear brake and gear lever for added lightness and robustness.
Durable high-strength adhesive graphics inspired by Antoine Meo’s winning livery in the Erzbergrodeo race.
Monster 30° Anniversario
Limited to just 500 units worldwide, the Monster 30° Anniversario is a tribute to three decades of Monster motorcycles.
Key features of this special edition model include:
A commemorative “30° Anniversario” Tricolore livery with matching passenger seat cover, along with a personalised plaque displaying the bike’s serial number on the handlebar and a bespoke key-on animation.
Ducati’s 937 cc Testastretta 11° engine, delivering 111 hp and 93 Nm of torque.
Standard forged aluminium wheels.
The latest electronics suite, which includes Ducati Quick Shift (DQS), Cornering ABS, and Traction Control, among others.
Leading Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) components manufacturer, MCE Holdings Berhad and its subsidiary company have announced the acquisition of a contract worth RM19.6 million from Perodua to supply various electronic and mechatronic components for Perodua’s first EV model.
These include multimedia display units, instrument cluster panels, advanced driver assistance systems, function switches, interior lighting systems, and many more.
According to MCE, the three-year contract will commence in the second quarter of the company’s financial year, ending on July 31, 2026.
This aligns with previous reports where Perodua planned to commence production of its first EV model by late 2025.
Showcased at the Malaysia Autoshow 2024, Perodua revealed a concept model named emo-1.
As per specifications, the emo-1 is powered by a 68 PS and 220 Nm electric motor, paired with a 55.7 kWh battery pack that allows for a range of up to 350 km on a full charge.
This EV also supports AC charging of up to 11 kW, or fast DC charging up to 50 kW.
Perodua had previously announced that the development of this first EV project was done in collaboration with three local universities, namely Universiti Tenaga Nasional (UNITEN), Universiti Kuala Lumpur, and Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM).
Meanwhile, power conversion technology development was conducted with technical partners from Australia whose identity has not yet been disclosed.
It is understood that the selling price of this Perodua EV will range from RM50,000 to RM100,000.
Lotus Cars Malaysia recently reintroduced the base variant of the 2024 Lotus Eletre as a complement to the existing Eletre S and Eletre R variants.
The first deliveries are scheduled to begin as early as October, with the selling price increased to RM598,800 compared to the original price of RM578,000 at the launch in April 2023.
The base version of the 2024 Lotus Eletre retains the specifications of two powerful electric motors generating 603 hp and 710 Nm, coupled with an all-wheel-drive (AWD) system.
Acceleration from 0-100 km/h takes 4.5 seconds before reaching a top speed of 245 km/h.
The 112 kWh battery pack allows for a range of up to 600 km (according to WLTP data), in addition to supporting fast charging at 350 kW, allowing the battery to be charged from 10-80 percent in just 20 minutes.
The distinguishing features of the base Eletre variant from the Eletre S and Eletre R variants are the 20-inch aerodynamic alloy rims and a four-piston brake system. Buyers can upgrade to a six-piston brake system with 22-inch rims for an additional RM30,000.
Other options include side cameras and an active rear spoiler that further enhances the driving experience of the Eletre.
As standard, the Lotus Eletre is equipped with ADAS safety features including smart adaptive cruise control (ACC), driver monitoring system, rear collision warning, rear cross-traffic alert (RCTA), front cross-traffic alert (FCTA), lane-keeping assist, lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring system, and parking assistance.
There are up to five driving modes included, namely Range, Tour, Sport, Off-Road, and Individual (in addition to Track for the Eletre R), assisted by Lotus’ smart dynamic chassis control.
The Lotus Eletre also comes with a 1,380-watt premium KEF audio system accompanied by 15 speakers, Uni-Q™ technology, and three-dimensional sound control.
For the Malaysian market, buyers can choose from two new colors, Akoya White and Cinnabar Red, as well as other colors including Kaimu Grey, Solar Yellow, Natron Red, Galloway Green, Stellar Black, and Blossom Grey.
Each Eletre is covered by a five-year/150,000 km manufacturer’s warranty and an eight-year or up to 200,000 km battery warranty.
We sense that many are interested and eagerly anticipating the launch of the Jaecoo J7 due to its premium design and attractive estimated price of around RM150k.
Good news, after several preview series, this SUV is officially launched today, with the following prices and variants:
Jaecoo J7 2WD: RM138,800
Jaecoo J7 AWD: RM148,800
The Jaecoo J7 is equipped with a 1.6-liter TGDI engine, with a maximum output of 197hp and 290Nm of torque. It is paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox and has the option of front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive (AWD).
Standard features of this five-seater SUV include LED lights, 19-inch ‘Aurora-inspired’ dual-tone rims, a 10.25-inch instrument display, a 14.8-inch infotainment unit, heated and cooled seats, and leather upholstery in the cabin.
The J7 also comes with a 50-watt wireless charger, 64-color ambient lighting, dual-zone air conditioning, a panoramic sunroof, and power tailgate.
There are four exterior colors to choose from: Moonlight Silver, Carbon Crystal Black, Khaki White, and Model Green.
As an SUV, the J7 has a ground clearance of 200mm with the ability to wade through water up to 600mm deep. It can also tow up to 1,300 kg and its roof rack can support up to 75 kg.
Interestingly, the AWD variant of the Jaecoo J7 comes with an All Road Drive Intelligent System consisting of seven driving modes: Eco, Normal, Sport, Snow, Mud, Sand, and Off-Road.
For safety systems, there are Front Collision Warning, Lane Departure Warning, Emergency Lane Keeping, Curve Speed Assistance, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Blind Spot Detection, Adaptive Cruise Control, Traffic Jam Assist, and Parking Assistance.
PROTON announced that the 2024 Proton X50 has received an overwhelming response, amassing a total of 8,000 bookings within just one month since its debut in June.
Since its original debut in 2020, the X50 has been Malaysia’s best-selling SUV, with 115,262 units sold up to June.
In response to the overwhelming demand, Proton said it is ramping up production to expedite delivery timeline for eager customers by August 2024.
Roslan Abdullah, Chief Executive Officer, Proton Edar said the automaker is thrilled to see such exceptional booking numbers in the first month alone, which demonstrates the strong appeal of the 2024 X50.
“This reaffirms our commitment to delivering outstanding value and quality to our customers. We understand the excitement and anticipation surrounding the 2024 Proton X50, and we want to assure our customers that we are doing everything possible to meet their expectations,” he added.
The automaker also said that all customers who are entitled for early bird promotion of RM7,000 cash discount and RM1,000/ RM1,500 trade-in support will receive it accordingly.
While its exterior has been left untouched, the 2024 X50 comes with a new NVH package that brings improvements to over 20 areas for better road noise insulation. Additionally, the power tailgate added to the Premium and Flagship variants offers ease of operation.
The upgraded 10.3-inch infotainment head unit (IHU) is another highlight, featuring a new dual quad-core processor unit that provides faster bootup speed and loading time.
Another enhancement is the 360 camera, which delivers exceptional clarity even in low-light conditions. Test drive videos have highlighted the 3D display that integrates a blind spot monitoring system, enhancing safety and awareness while cruising at speeds up to 150 km/h.
In conjunction with celebrating Proton’s 5 millionth production milestone, Proton has also rolled out promotional packages for other models, such as a cash rebate of RM500 for the Saga, RM7,000 for the X70 and a free 2-year service maintenance for the X90.
Additionally, a long awaited ‘no purchase obligation Test Drive and Win’ event has been introduced at Proton showrooms nationwide.
Volvo Cars today reports an operating profit (EBIT), excluding joint ventures and associates, of SEK 8.2 billion for the second quarter of 2024, the highest-ever in a single quarter and an increase of 28 per cent versus the same period in 2023.
The corresponding core EBIT margin reached a record high of 8.1 per cent, versus 6.3 per cent in the same period last year. This improvement in the underlying profitability was a result of the company’s focus on pricing discipline, internal cost control and sustained growth in sales.
During the quarter, global retail sales rose by 15 per cent year-on-year to 205,400 cars. This was driven by the performance of the company’s electrified cars – both plug-in hybrids and electric cars – sales of which grew by 43 per cent in the second quarter, versus the same period last year.
48 per cent of Volvo Cars’ global sales volume during the quarter consisted of plug-in hybrid (PHEV) and fully electric (EV) cars, while its EV-only share of sales rose to 26 per cent. The strong demand for the company’s electrified cars was demonstrated by the EX30 small SUV, which was among the top three best-selling EVs in Europe, while the XC60 plug-in hybrid continues to be the best-selling PHEV in Europe in recent months.
The EX30 has proved popular with customers in Europe and other markets. This has been reflected in Volvo Cars’ gross margins, which increased to 22.8 per cent from 19.0 per cent last year. Gross margins on its EVs reached a new high of 20 per cent in the period, demonstrating that Volvo Cars continues to make the transition towards electrification profitably.
Revenue for the second quarter came in at SEK 101.5 billion, versus SEK 102.2 billion reported in the same period last year. The slight revenue decline was due to reduced income from contract manufacturing and a normalisation of sales to rental companies. Volvo Cars’ core revenues from operations during the quarter, excluding income from contract manufacturing, remained stable.
“We delivered a strong second quarter performance in 2024 with record underlying profitability, demonstrating our ability to create value despite a complex geopolitical and economic environment,” said Jim Rowan, chief executive of Volvo Cars. “Our core operational momentum remains on a firm footing, thanks to the strength of our balanced strategy, product portfolio and our agility in responding decisively to headwinds.”
“Our brand and values around safety and sustainability, as well as our unique technology approach, continue to resonate strongly with customers,” added Jim Rowan.
The EX30, EM90 and EX90 are clear examples of where Volvo Cars is going, as it continues its journey towards full electrification. Together with its plug-in and mild hybrid cars, these EV models provide Volvo Cars with a balanced portfolio that serves as a clear bridge to an all-electric future.
This transition will not be a linear development. Many consumers are not yet able to go fully electric, particularly in areas with low infrastructure development or because of the early withdrawal of incentives by governments. These factors make Volvo Cars’ balanced line-up of fully electric, plug-in and mild hybrid models important as a bridge.
Volvo Cars continues to invest across the breadth of its product range, both in new models and ongoing improvements to existing ones. During its Capital Markets Day in September, Volvo Cars will reveal more details on its technological roadmap as well as forthcoming models and updates.
Yet like all global companies, Volvo Cars operates in a complex geopolitical environment that impacts trade and tests supply chain resilience. In the short term, potential tariffs from the EU commission affecting EVs from China will affect the EX30.
However, as the company previously announced, it will start producing the EX30 in its Ghent, Belgium plant next year, as part of its ‘Build where we sell’ strategy. The company aims to start production of the EX30 in Ghent during the first half of 2025, with volumes ramping up during the second half of that year.
In September 2021, Genesis was among the manufacturers that announced electrification plans, where every new model will receive a full electric version starting in 2025.
However, due to the weakening demand for EVs, the South Korean automotive manufacturer has conducted a review of their plans, with their current strategy being to launch as many hybrid vehicle models as possible.
In an interview with Top Gear, Genesis global boss Mike Song stated, “Many customers now prefer hybrids over EVs.”
He further expressed, “Electrification still remains our vision. We will have 100 percent electrified vehicles, but due to the market and customers leaning towards hybrids more than EVs, we will introduce more Genesis hybrid models as quickly as possible.”
Meanwhile, head of vehicle development unit Tyrone Johnson added, “We are constantly re-evaluating what we do, and sometimes you need to make slight adjustments.”
“As mentioned by Mike, the EV strategy remains strong, but you shouldn’t be rigid about specific things when the situation changes, you need to react, and that’s what should happen,” he continued.
In the interview, Mike Song did not disclose details about the specific hybrid powertrain that will be used in Genesis vehicles.
However, it is certain that in the future, Genesis customers will be presented with more options of hybrid vehicles to suit their individual needs, and not limited to purely battery electric vehicle (BEV) models.
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