China is one of the most essential markets for Volkswagen, and now the German manufacturer has officially launched the electric-powered SUV coupe named ID.UNYX.
Built on the MEB platform, this compact SUV features dimensions measuring 4,663 mm in length, 1,860 mm in width, 1,610 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,766 mm.
Externally, the ID.UNYX showcases a pair of sharp matrix LED headlights consisting of 13 LED units connected by a crossbar LED.
Meanwhile, the rear end presents a sleeker appearance with thinner light structures complemented by a crossbar LED and a glowing VW logo.
The sharp design elements are also carried over to the front dashboard where you can spot the air vent intentionally crafted to resemble the ID.UNYX’s headlights.
Among the existing features are a 5.3-inch instrument panel screen for the driver, a 2K resolution 15-inch floating screen, an augmented reality head-up display (AR), and a flat-bottomed steering wheel.
Additionally, the ID.UNYX offers conveniences such as wireless device charging, a cup holder in the center console, AI assistance, 12-way adjustable seats, and support for Apple CarPlay, Baidu CarLife, and Huawei HiCar.
In China, the ID.UNYX is available with a choice of a single electric motor producing 227 hp or a dual electric motor variant with a combined power output of 335 hp.
The 82.4 kWh ternary lithium battery pack allows for a driving range of up to 621 km, or 565 km for the dual motor version.
The selling price ranges from 209,900 yuan to 249,900 yuan (RM135,000 to RM161,000) with three available variants: Pro, Ultra, and Max.
Looking for a unique vehicle to convert into a campervan?
White House Camper, a company from the Land of the Rising Sun, has unveiled their latest project in the form of an electric-powered pop-up roof that can be fitted to the five-door Suzuki Jimny.
The project was initially revealed in blueprint form before the actual prototype unit made its debut at the 2024 Tokyo Camper Show.
With the installation of the pop-up roof, it will provide sleeping space for two adults.
Moreover, it also facilitates easy movement from the cabin to the roof without the need for an exterior ladder, although the original Jimny roof would need to be sacrificed.
White House Camper mentioned that the pop-up roof is especially useful in emergency situations such as natural disasters.
At the moment, White House Camper has yet to disclose the official release date and selling price for the pop-up roof for the Suzuki Jimny five-door.
Several months after the concept model was revealed, Lexus Japan has officially offered the fast-paced crossover model, LBX MORIZO RR, to the Land of the Rising Sun market.
This high-performance subcompact SUV is powered by the inline-three G16E-GTS 1.6-liter turbo engine from the hot hatch GR Yaris, boasting around 300 hp @ 6,500 rpm and 400 Nm @ 3,250-4,600 rpm.
Buyers there are also given the option to obtain the LBX MORIZO RR model with a manual iMT six-speed transmission, or an automatic Direct-Shift eight-speed transmission with the ability to accelerate from 0-100 km/h in just 5.2 seconds.
Contributing to a more sporty driving dynamic is the all-wheel drive (AWD) system, the use of Response-Enhancing Damping Structure (REDS) components on the front lower arms, and an upgraded braking system.
At the same time, Lexus has also improved the NVH aspect to differentiate it from the donor model (Yaris Cross TNGA).
In terms of dimensions, the Lexus LBX MORIZO Edition retains the length (4,190 mm) and wheelbase (2,580 mm), but is wider by 15 mm and lower by 10 mm compared to the standard model.
The aggressive appearance of the LBX MORIZO RR is enhanced by the redesigned front bumper, side skirts, body-colored fender flares, and a set of 19-inch forged rims.
The cabin space is characterized by a pair of sports seats, aluminum pedals, Alcantara finishes, and red contrast stitching.
Reservations for the Lexus LBX MORIZO RR model have already opened in the Japanese market, with a starting price of ¥6,500,000 (RM194,007).
Lexus Japan also offers the limited edition MORIZO RR “Bespoke Build”, with production limited to only 100 units.
Unlike the standard LBX MORIZO RR, this Bespoke Build variant can be customized with various options for cabin colors and finishes, as well as the exclusive option of MORIZO yellow brake calipers.
The Lexus LBX MORIZO RR Bespoke Build is much more expensive, with prices starting from ¥7,200,000 (RM214,900), where eligible buyers will be selected through a lottery system.
THE horse has become the most popular symbol used by car companies because this animal represents strength, agility, and speed.
The use of the horse in logos is not new; in fact, it has been used for thousands of years. In many cultures, the horse is also associated with power and freedom.
Of course, the most well-known brand that uses the horse logo is Ferrari. Car enthusiasts might also recognize Porsche and Mustang which also use the horse symbol.
In this article, we will take a look at 10 other brand choices. Yes, there are many more besides the three aforementioned brands.
1. Corre La Licorne
Corre La Licorne is a French car manufacturer founded in 1901 in Levallois-Perret by Jean-Marie Corre.
2. Pegaso
“Pegaso” comes from the Spanish word meaning “Pegasus” in English. It was a manufacturer of trucks, buses, tractors, and armored vehicles. They also briefly produced sports cars.
In 1990, Iveco took over Enasa, and the Pegaso name disappeared in 1994. The name “Pegaso” (winged horse) was a source of inspiration for their logo for a long time and was used as an emblem in art and design.
3. Iran Khodro
Iran Khodro, also known as IKCO, is a manufacturer based in Tehran, with operations in several countries. Originally, it was named Iran National.
4. Eicher
Eicher Motors Limited (EML) is an Indian manufacturer of motorcycles and commercial vehicles. Eicher is also the parent company of Royal Enfield.
Apart from motorcycles, Eicher also collaborated with Volvo Trucks to form the joint venture VECV (Volvo Eicher Commercial Vehicles Limited).
5. Baojun
Next is Baojun, a result of General Motors’ collaboration with two companies in China. The horse in Baojun’s logo symbolizes “treasured horse.”
6. Kamaz
Another brand that uses the horse symbol is Kamaz, a manufacturer of trucks and engines from Russia.
Founded in 1969, Kamaz is popular for its cab-over trucks, and the name “Kamaz” refers to the Kama River.
The running horse symbol on the Kamaz logo represents strength and agility.
7. Carlsson
Carlsson is a vehicle tuning company that focuses on Mercedes-Benz cars.
Established in 1989, the horse symbol is very suitable for Carlsson as they make Mercedes models faster and sportier.
8. Ford Mustang
Mustang uses its own unique horse logo, unlike other Ford models.
As we all know, Mustang is a muscle car and is an iconic name, with the first generation born in 1964. Mustang is currently in its sixth generation and is the longest-produced name in Ford’s history.
Mustang is a type of free-roaming horse in the American West. This is what they want to convey to buyers through the logo – their cars have speed and quality.
9. Porsche
The horse in the Porsche logo is taken from the Coat of Arms, representing the special horse breeding area in Stuttgart, Germany. Stuttgart uses a horse as the city’s symbol, and this inspired Porsche to use the animal in their logo.
10. Ferrari
Lastly, the most iconic horse brand – Ferrari. Originally, this symbol was used by World War I fighter pilot Francesco Baracca on his airplane. The reason the horse in Ferrari is black is to mourn the sacrificed pilot.
The “Prancing Horse” is used in some Ferrari and Scuderia logos. The leaping horse symbolizes power and is felt by enthusiasts and Ferrari drivers.”
Great Wall Motor (GWM) Malaysia has announced that it will organise an off-road test drive event on July 20 and 21, 2024, at M4TREC, a 4WD training and experience centre in Semenyih.
This event will provide an opportunity for the public to experience firsthand the capabilities and performance of the Tank 300 traversing through custom-made challenges and obstacles at M4TREC.
Additionally, participants will be given training from expert instructors on how to tackle any rugged terrain during their outdoor adventures.
There will be several obstacles at the experience centre, such as Log Bridge, Axle Twister, Ridge Crossing, Log Track, Hill Descent, Hill Climb and others.
Mike Cui An Qi, Managing Director of GWM Malaysia says the company wants the public to experience the performance and capabilities of the Tank 300 in a variety of road conditions.
“To ensure this, we have arranged for experienced instructors to guide participants as they confidently take on the off-road challenges. This enables them to fully utilise the off-road intelligent features and conquer all terrains,” he added.
The Tank 300 was officially launched on July 12 with a starting price of RM250,000. Fully imported from China, the rugged SUV is powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine making 220 PS and 380 Nm.
To secure a spot for the off-road test drive experience, RSVP now at this link. All participants will receive an exclusive GWM merchandise.
Shell Commercial Fuels has officially unveiled its new formulation of Shell FuelSave Diesel with advanced cleaning properties, which helps customers in the transport, construction, mining, and agriculture sectors improve fuel economy by 3.75% and recover power.
According to Shell, the new formulation helps to clean up fuel injector nozzle deposits and Internal Diesel Injector Deposits (IDIDs) after just one tank.
It is also designed to help protect Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) systems from deposit build-up, thus boosting vehicle reliability.
By providing a fuel injector clean-up and keep-clean effect, the new formulation helps businesses avoid unplanned breakdowns and replacements, which can cost as much as RM 8,500 for a single injector.
When taken to account that six- or eight-cylinder engines may require replacing a whole set of injectors, the costs accumulate to the point of having an impact on the bottom line.
Shell Malaysia Managing Director, Shairan Huzani Husain, said the company is committed to reduce the environmental impact from operations for industry players.
“We aim to help reduce total cost of ownership for businesses that rely on advanced diesel-engine technology to elevate their growth for a more profitable business.
“Increasing costs, shifting supply chains and new ways of working have forced businesses to adapt quickly. On top of these setbacks, technologies continue to advance, engine maintenance becomes crucial and fuel choice becomes increasingly important,” he said.
Boon Siew Honda has announced two new colors for the 2024 Honda ADV160.
The new colors mentioned are grey and white, which will be available at all authorized Honda dealers and Impian X starting from July 18, 2024 with a selling price of RM13,249.
2024 Honda ADV160 still retains the single-cylinder 157 cc eSP+ engine capable of producing 15.8 hp @ 8,500 rpm and torque of 14.7 Nm @ 6,500 rpm.
The Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) system will optimize engine power and grip rate, assisted by the Idling Stop System (ISS) for enhanced efficiency.
Available features include a smart key system with anti-theft function, USB charger, 30-liter storage under the saddle, and adjustable two-stage wind deflector mirrors.
The suspension system consists of telescopic forks at the front, followed by twin-chamber shock absorbers at the rear, while the front and rear disc brake system is assisted by a single-channel ABS system.
The ADV160 offers a saddle height of approximately 780 mm, along with a fuel tank capacity of 8.1 liters.
Boon Siew Honda offers a two-year manufacturer’s warranty or a maximum mileage of 20,000 km, whichever comes first.
The Kuala Lumpur International Mobility Show (KLIMS) is set to return for its 10th edition with the theme, “Beyond Mobility.”
Organised by the Malaysian Automotive Association (MAA), KLIMS 2024 will take place from December 5 to 11, 2024 at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Center (MITEC).
This year, KLIMS joins forces with the Malaysia Automotive Robotics and IoT Institute (MARii), an agency under the Ministry of Investment, Trade & Industry (MITI).
With MARii as a strategic partner, KLIMS 2024 aims to explore new avenues for enhancing the capabilities of automotive ecosystems in alignment with the National Automotive Policy (NAP) 2020.
This year’s theme, “Beyond Mobility,” emphasises sustainability, electrification, and autonomous driving. Attendees can look forward to featured exhibits from leading automotive brands and partners, showcasing cutting-edge vehicles and innovative mobility solutions.
KLIMS 2024 also provides platform for all categories of electrified vehicles, vendors, charging equipment suppliers, and service providers to exhibit their latest products, innovations, and technologies.
KLIMS 2024 is supported by key industry associations and prominent event partners such as the Motorcycle and Scooter Assemblers and Distributors Association of Malaysia (MASAAM), Automotive Federation Malaysia (AFM) and the Malaysian Automotive Component Parts Manufacturers Association (MACPMA).
On top of that, event partners such as Carsome, Big Onion, and Motonation will contribute their resources ensuring a comprehensive and engaging experience for all attendees.
Brands that have confirmed their participation at KLIMS 2024 include Perodua, Proton, Toyota, Honda, Mitsubishi, Nissan, KIA, Mazda, Kawasaki, Great Wall, MG Motor, GAC Motor, Allianz, V-Kool, Kineta, PG Pro Perma Glass, NVK Interior, GoInsuran, WTC Automotif, TCCL and more.
Event details
Date: 5 – 11 December 2024 ( Thursday to Wednesday)
Venue: Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC)
Opening hours
10:00am to 8:00pm on weekdays
10.00am to 10.00pm on weekend (Friday, Saturday & Sunday as 11th December is Selangor public
holiday)
UMW Toyota Motor (UMWT) has announced its sales performance for June 2024, with the company recording a total of 7,600 units sold.
The figure represents a decrease of 9.8% compared to the 8,422 units recorded in May. With this recent achievement, the total year-to-date sales as of June 2024 is now at 47,000 units.
According to UMWT, this reflects the company’s initiatives and successful customer-centric promotions. The company characterizes the sales performance in June as positive, driven by successful promotional efforts and a focus on both customer satisfaction and social responsibility.
Datuk Ravindran K., President of UMWT, said, “We are grateful for the trust our customers have given us, which is reflected in our sales this month. This trust strengthens our commitment to society and aligns with our vision to Move Your World.”
To further enhance buying experience, UMWT has introduced the “Peace of Mind with Every Drive” promo for July 2024, offering customers up to 100% financing for selected models.
Additionally, customers can enjoy various other savings, including promotions worth up to RM7,500 for the new Yaris, with monthly installments from as low as RM688.
Meanwhile, the Toyota Service Savers program further offers convenient monthly instalments starting from as low as RM31.
Following the warm reception of Toyota Showroom Weekender held on July 13 and 14, UMW said it will continue to host the event monthly.
Welcome the all-new Audi A5 model, replacing the executive sedan/wagon A4 generations that has been in the market since 1994.
The use of this new name is Audi’s step in standardizing the names used, where even numbers refer to electric power models, while odd numbers indicate that the model will be offered with internal combustion engine (ICE) options.
Here is a brief overview of the luxurious executive model Audi A5 2024:
1. Sedan or wagon
For the A5 model, Audi still maintains the tradition of offering sedan (Limousine) and station wagon (Avant) body shapes.
Unlike the traditional three-box sedan body shape of the Audi A4, the Audi A5 Limousine is basically a five-door liftback coupe sedan model that offers a more dynamic design.
As usual, Audi also offers the S5 Limousine and S5 Avant variants with 20 mm lower suspension, black package, and 20-inch rims.
2. Cargo space
As standard, the Audi A5 Limousine provides a cargo space of 445 liters, smaller than the cargo space of the Audi A4 (480 liters). However, it can be expanded up to 1,299 liters when the rear seats are folded.
Meanwhile, the A5 Avant model offers a space of 476 liters, or up to 1,424 liters when the second-row seats are folded.
3. A5 dimensions larger than A4
Audi positions the A5 model above the A4 model, with an overall length increased by 67 mm, followed by an 80 mm increase in wheelbase dimensions.
With the mentioned dimensional increases, this means the Audi A5 offers a larger cabin space compared to the Audi A4.
4. Exterior design
From an exterior perspective, the Audi A5 brings together elements of modern sportiness and premium proportions, with thinner LED headlights, a single-frame grille, a low center of gravity, and real exhaust tips based on customer feedback.
The OLED taillights consist of 364 segments with eight programmable lighting sequences through the central infotainment screen, and with graphics that can be changed according to the situation.
5. Cabin space
As standard, the Audi A5 cabin is equipped with a 14.5-inch MMI center screen, an 11.9-inch digital cluster screen, a head-up display screen option, a small screen for the front passengers, and Smart Door Panels borrowed from the Audi Q6.
Following current trends, Audi also emphasizes the use of sustainable materials in the cabin, such as ‘Softwrap’ fabric available on the dashboard and door panels.
6. Engine
The Audi A5 is built on the Premium Platform Combustion (PPC) platform, offering support for various diesel and petrol engines, as well as plug-in hybrid engines.
The basic version of the Audi A5 is equipped with a 2.0-liter TFSI engine with 148 hp, or up to 201 hp with front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive quattro options.
There is also a 2.0-liter TDI mild hybrid diesel version with 201 hp, with an MHEV system capable of providing an additional 24 hp for a short period.
Finally, the most powerful engine is the 3.0-liter TFSI mild hybrid V6 engine with 362 hp, paired with electronic differential and torque vectoring functions tailored for the S5 Limousine/S5 Avant models.
Audi customers looking for the PHEV version can expect the model to debut in 2025 with power options of 295 hp or 362 hp, quattro all-wheel drive system, and an all-electric range exceeding 100 km.
The ongoing war in Ukraine has become one of the reasons for the delay in the acquisition of UH-60A Blackhawk helicopters, according to Deputy Defense Minister Adly Zahari.
He stated that this matter was communicated by Aerotree Defence and Services Sdn Bhd, the company responsible for the helicopter leasing services acquisition contract.
“The approval process by the United States regulatory authorities has also been tightened for the modernization of technical specifications and avionics system integration on the UH-60A Blackhawk aircraft,” he said.
The work program timeline and the expected delivery of the aircraft to Malaysia have been reviewed and updated by the Slovak Training Academy and all involved parties based on the current supply chain conditions and the expected approval timeline by the US regulatory authorities.”
He was responding to a question from Datuk Seri Ikmal Hisham Abdul Aziz (PN-Tanah Merah) regarding the reasons for Aerotree Defence and Services’ failure to supply UH-60A helicopters to the Malaysian Army within the stipulated time and the ministry’s subsequent actions during the question-and-answer session in the Dewan Rakyat on Tuesday.
Adly stated that the company was supposed to deliver two helicopters on October 30, 2023, and another two on December 30, 2023. He emphasized that the Ministry of Defense viewed this delay seriously as it had an impact on the operation of the Army Air Forces helicopter units as outlined in the contract.
“Furthermore, if there is any delay in the delivery of these helicopters, the government, through this contract, will impose fines for the delays caused by the company. However, if the company still fails to make the deliveries according to the set dates, the ministry can also cancel this acquisition and re-tender as required by the contract,” he added.
THE Kia Bongo is a small one-ton truck that has been launched since 2005, but it is still being updated for 2025. This fourth-generation model is being refreshed not for the third world market, but in South Korea itself.
Available in two- and four-door variants, the design of this Kia Bongo looks like it’s from the early 2000s, but this is indeed the 2025 version.
Standard equipment has been added, with the truck now equipped with power side mirrors, cruise control, and a fire extinguisher. Higher variants are equipped with chrome door handles and a new parking brake handle.
Specifically designed for small businesses, the Bongo comes with an automatic transmission, previously only available in manual. There are also options for two-wheel and all-wheel drive.
Despite being founded over two decades ago, it has received additional modern features such as heated/ventilated seats, start/stop button, and a 10.25-inch infotainment screen.
Safety features include Forward Collision Avoidance Assist and Lane Departure Warning. The engine remains the same, a 2.5-liter unit with an output of 157hp and 294Nm of torque for the automatic transmission.
The manual model has power of 136hp and 254Nm of torque. For those more environmentally friendly, the Kia Bongo is also offered in a fully electric (EV) version with an output of 181hp and 394Nm of torque.
It can be driven up to 210km. Prices start at around RM68,726 in Korea. It would definitely be interesting if it were sold in Malaysia, wouldn’t it?
THE recently concluded Goodwood Festival of Speed featured plenty of exciting cars, but it’s fair to say that none were as breathtaking as the Red Bull RB17.
Designed by Red Bull Racing’s Chief Technical Officer Adrian Newey, and Red Bull Advanced Technologies, the RB17 is the energy drink brand’s first ever hypercar and it is a track-only beast.
The RB17 features a two-seater carbon fiber monocoque chassis with a mid-mounted naturally aspirated 4.5-litre V10 engine capable of redlining at 15,000 rpm.
With over 1,200 hp sent to the rear wheels through a six-speed carbon fibre gearbox, Red Bull claims the 900-kg RB17 is capable of delivering F1-equivalent lap times and reaching top speeds in excess of 350 km/h.
It goes without saying that the RB17 is truly impressive. Unfortunately, only 50 lucky (and super rich) individuals will be able to own it and as you may have guessed, all units are already spoken for. Each will cost an eye-watering £6 million (RM36.3 million).
At such a price, owners will be given the privilege to specify everything from the exterior paint colour to interior materials, as well as other details.
But that’s not all. As part of the unique ownership experience offered by Red Bull, RB17 owners will also be invited to participate in exclusive track events held at leading circuits around the world.
IAN Cameron, the designer of BMW and Rolls-Royce, was tragically murdered at his residence in Bavaria on 12th of July. He was 74 years old. His wife, Verena Kloose, managed to escape from the house and notify the authorities, but the police were unable to apprehend the suspect.
“We are deeply shocked and saddened by the news about our former Rolls-Royce designer. Our thoughts are with his family and friends during these difficult hours,” said BMW in a statement published by Automotive News.
CEO of Rolls-Royce, Chris Brownridge, said, “Ian played a significant role in shaping Rolls-Royce from when it was first acquired by BMW Group and moved to its Home at Goodwood, West Sussex.
“During Ian’s tenure, he led the design team for all Phantom family and Ghost models, creating thoroughly contemporary motor cars that remained sympathetic to the marque’s design lineage. My thoughts are with Ian’s family and friends during this very difficult time.”
Cameron was also part of the design team that created the BMW Z8. His most popular design was the Rolls-Royce Phantom 2003, which has influenced the design direction of every Rolls-Royce to this day. He was involved in the exterior design of the Range Rover L322 when the brand was under BMW.
However, Cameron’s career began at Pininfarina in 1975, and he had his own design firm after retiring from BMW. According to investigators, the murder suspect is believed to have been attempting to steal Cameron’s collection of luxury cars at his residence in Lake Ammersee.
The Times reported that the power to Cameron’s house was cut and the security cameras were disabled, so there is no recording of the attacker, but the German police are actively pursuing the case.
The premium electric mobility brand under Geely, Zeekr, has just unveiled a new model positioned to challenge the Tesla Model Y – the Zeekr 7X.
The 7X is a full-time electric SUV built on the SEA (Sustainable Experience Architecture) platform, the same foundation used by the Zeekr 007 sedan.
Not many specification details have been disclosed at this time.
However, according to reports, the Zeekr 7X will be offered with two battery pack options – a 75 kWh LFP pack or a 100 kWh ternary NMC battery pack.
Two electric drive configurations are also offered, with the base version featuring a rear-wheel drive with 416 hp, while the dual electric motor variant can generate a power of up to 637 hp.
In terms of dimensions, the Zeekr 7X measures 4,825 mm in length, 1,930 mm wide, 1,666 mm high, with a wheelbase of approximately 2,925 mm.
Compared to the Tesla Model Y, the Zeekr 7X is 75 mm longer, with a longer wheelbase than the Tesla (2,891 mm).
The exterior design of the 7X shares many elements with the 007 sedan, including the ‘Stargate’ front LED panel that can display text, followed by thin LED bars at the rear.
Based on the specifications of the 007 sedan in the Chinese market, the base level comes with a rear-wheel drive electric motor with 0-100 km/h acceleration in 5.4 seconds, while the all-wheel drive version can accelerate in just 2.84 seconds.
The Zeekr 007 sedan also offers a travel range of up to 688 km or up to 870 km based on CLTC data, in addition to supporting fast charging at 800 volts where owners can add 610 km of range in just 15 minutes.
Lastly, there is support for LiDAR sensors, 12 cameras, and Nvidia Orin-X processing chips for high-speed autonomous driving, which now covers the entire mainland China.
The Opening Ceremony of Exercise Pitch Black 2024 (PBK24) recently took place officially at the Darwin Convention Centre, Australia.
But what is Exercise Pitch Black 2024? Pitch Black is the largest exercise in the southern hemisphere organized by the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) and is held every two years.
This year’s edition is scheduled from July 12 to August 2, and it is said to be the largest ever held. It is joined by 20 countries from around the world with more than 140 fighter aircraft and 4,400 military personnel.
The Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) also deployed a contingent this year consisting of three F/A-18D Hornets and an Airbus A400M. This is not the first time the RMAF has participated in Exercise Pitch Black.
First held in 1981, Pitch Black brings together various air forces from around the world for a series of exercises involving complex scenarios with fighter aircraft and support such as tanker aircraft, as well as control and early warning (AEW&C) aircraft.
Most aircraft will operate from RAAF Base Darwin, but there will also be aircraft operating from Tindal and Amberley bases.
The air forces returning to Darwin for Pitch Black 2024 are from France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, the Republic of Korea, Singapore, Thailand, the United Kingdom, and the United States.
There are also air force units participating for the first time, such as from the Philippines, Spain, Italy, and Papua New Guinea. Some personnel from Fiji and Brunei will also join, as well as from Canada and New Zealand.
This exercise is not only anticipated by participants from the military but also eagerly awaited by aerospace and military enthusiasts in the Darwin area and beyond.
This is because they have the opportunity to see advanced fighter aircraft from various countries, which are not always present at Darwin base, such as the F-22 Raptor, F-35 Lightning, F-15 Eagle, F-16 Falcon, F/A-18 Hornet and Super Hornet, Eurofighter Typhoon, FA-50, Dassault Rafale, Saab Gripen, and Sukhoi Su-30.
The exercise involves various activities and situations that will test the skills of pilots and crews to work together with each other and with colleagues from other countries.
In addition, for the local community, the sidelines of Pitch Black involve an open day at Darwin Air Base and an air show at Mindil Beach.
For additional information, the RMAF contingent began their journey several days ago. They departed from Butterworth last week, made a stop in Kuching and Bali before continuing their journey to Darwin.
Some air forces also made Malaysia a stopover, such as the Italian air and naval forces, which stopped in Subang a few days before continuing their journey.
Among the aircraft taking part in the event are:
Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) – Boeing EA-18G Growler, F/A-18F Super Hornet, E-7A Wedgetail AEW&C, Lockheed Martin F-35A, C-130J Hercules, Airbus A330/KC-30A MRTT French Air and Space Force (FASF) – Dassault Rafale, Airbus A330 MRTT, A400M, CN235 German Air Force – Eurofighter Typhoon, Airbus A330 MRTT, A400M Indian Air Force (IAF) – Sukhoi Su-30MKI Flanker Indonesian Air Force – Lockheed Martin F-16A/B/C/D Italian Air Force – Lockheed Martin F-35A, F-35B, C-130J Hercules, Eurofighter Typhoon, G550 AEW&C, Boeing KC-767 Italian Navy – Lockheed Martin F-35B, AV-8B Harrier II Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF) – Mitsubishi F-2A/B, Boeing E-767 airborne early warning and control (AWACS) Papua New Guinea Defence Force (PNGDF) – PAC-750 Philippine Air Force (PAF) – Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) FA-50PH Fighting Eagle Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) – Boeing F/A-18D Hornet, Airbus A400M Republic of Korea Air Force (ROKAF) – Boeing F-15K Slam Eagle Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) – Lockheed Martin F-16C/D, Boeing F-15SG, G550 CAEW&C, Airbus A330 MRTT Royal Air Force (RAF) – Eurofighter Typhoon, Airbus A330/Voyager MRTT Spanish Air and Space Force (SASF) – Eurofighter Typhoon, Airbus A400M Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF) – Saab JAS-39C/D Gripen United States Air Force (USAF) – Lockheed Martin F-22A Raptor United States Marine Corps (USMC) – Bell Boeing MV-22 Osprey
The Goodwood Festival of Speed has claimed its first ‘victim’. The Lotus Evija X – a one-off track machine built for a specific Nurburgring record – was involved in an accident at the Goodwood event, causing extensive damage to its front end. Fortunately, the driver escaped unharmed.
While it’s not uncommon to see high-powered cars go off track and crash at this short Goodwood course, the Lotus incident is somewhat unusual.
It didn’t occur at Molecomb corner, a challenging left-hander in the middle of the course capable of catching out even professional drivers. Instead, the incident took place right at the start line.
Footage shows the Evija X performing a burnout with thick smoke before suddenly veering to the right and crashing into a hay bale wall. Its front clamshell is crushed, but the driver compartment remains intact.
Analysts suspect it may have stemmed from the software controlling the four electric motors on each wheel, generating almost 2,000hp causing a loss of control. The accident doesn’t appear to be too severe, and it is hoped that the vehicle can be repaired and back in action.
Only one unit was ever produced, and Lotus surely doesn’t have any spares or replacements. In a statement released by Lotus, a few days after the incident:
Evija X is a one-off track version of our electric hyper-car, Evija; one of the most powerful production cars in the world. The Evija X took part in a hill run at Goodwood Festival of Speed on Thursday, 11th July, where it was involved in an incident at the start line.
Following a formal evaluation by both Goodwood and Lotus, asymmetric grip caused by overcorrection during rapid acceleration at the start line was determined to be the cause. Driver was unharmed in the incident and there was minimal damage to the car.
Toyota Japan has updated its offering of the rear-wheel-drive sports coupe model Toyota GR86 for the 2025 model year with the anticipated upgrades for its enthusiasts.
Compared to the previous GR86, Toyota claims the 2025 model is able to offer sharper handling and a more connected driving feel with the road.
Based on input obtained from racing circuits, Toyota has retooled the characteristics of the suspension system and the Electric Power Steering (EPS) control of this vehicle for more precise response and control without sacrificing stability.
For the manual transmission model, the traction control has been recalibrated to facilitate throttle blipping, in addition to offering smoother traction control response.
Toyota engineers also adjusted the engine speed tolerance aspect on the automatic transmission-equipped GR86 for a more sporty driving experience based on feedback from customers involved in motorsports.
Furthermore, the Toyota GR86 2025 has been updated with new features such as tire pressure warning system and Daytime Running Lights (DRL).
For those seeking something more exclusive, Toyota Japan has introduced the GR86 “RZ Ridge Green Limited” edition, limited to just 200 units.
It features an exclusive green color on the exterior, 18-inch silver-colored rims, Brembo vented brake rotors, SACHS shock absorbers, two-tone black/tan leather and suede upholstery, as well as special embroidery on the door panel.
The Toyota GR86 Ridge Green Limited edition is priced starting from ¥3,897,000 (RM114,560) and can only be purchased through a lucky draw system, with applications closing on July 28.
Those who miss out can still get the standard Toyota GR86 with a starting sales price of ¥3,195,000 (RM93,923) for the manual version, while the automatic version starts from ¥3,293,000 (RM96,804).
Consultancy firm Alixpartners predicts that only 19 out of 137 Chinese EV brands will achieve profits by the end of this decade. The rest may be forced to exit the industry, merge, or struggle to maintain a small foothold in the market.
According to Stephen Dyer, managing director at Alixpartners, “As long as major players like BYD maintain gross margins, there will be room for continued price wars.”
The persistent price wars over the past two years have put pressure on some Chinese EV manufacturers, a situation that will continue as major players like BYD and Tesla strive to strengthen their dominant positions.
Alixpartners further states that although the average car selling price in China decreased by 13.4 percent last year, the average car manufacturer margin increased by 7.8 percent in 2023 compared to 6.3 percent in the previous year.
By 2030, Chinese automotive manufacturers are predicted to hold a 33 percent market share in the global market and 45 percent in the new energy vehicle (NEV) segment.
However, the firm has lowered its forecasts for the European market from 15 percent to 12 percent due to additional tariffs imposed by the European Union on Chinese automotive manufacturers.
Honda Motor is reported to be closing one of its manufacturing plants located in the Ayutthaya region next year due to the intense competition it is facing.
According to a Reuters report, the manufacturer plans to consolidate vehicle production at the Prachinburi plant, while the Ayutthaya plant will be converted into a parts production hub.
Honda is also reported to be making additional investments at the Prachinburi plant to enable them to switch from assembling internal combustion engine vehicles to producing hybrid engine vehicles.
Honda’s first vehicle assembly plant in Thailand was opened in the Ayutthaya region in 1996, while the second plant was opened in Prachinburi in 2016.
Intense competition from Chinese automotive manufacturers has seen Honda settle for sales below the 100,000 units over the past four years.
In fact, since 2019 the total production figures recorded by the two plants in Thailand have decreased from 228,000 units to below 150,000 units in the same period up until last year (2023).
Malaysia’s Leading Automotive News | ENGEAR ENGLISH
