Category Archives: NEWS

Hyundai, LG open first EV battery plant in Indonesia

Hyundai Motor Group and LG Energy Solution inaugurated the opening of the first electric vehicle battery production plant in Indonesia last week.

With an annual battery cell capacity of 10 Gigawatt-hours (GWh), the plant is capable of supplying the battery packs needed for over 150,000 EV units, starting with the Kona Electric followed by various Hyundai and Kia models.

The opening of the plant is part of both parties’ commitment to invest up to $9.8 billion (RM46.14 billion) to develop the EV supply chain in the largest economy in Southeast Asia.

 

 

Hyundai and LGES are also prepared to develop the second phase of the plant involving a $2 billion (RM9.42 billion) investment to increase the annual battery cell capacity by 20 GWh.

Indonesian President, Joko Widodo, explained that the battery plant will strengthen Indonesia in the global EV supply chain.

“This is the first and largest EV battery cell plant in Southeast Asia, and I believe we will be able to compete with other countries due to the availability of nickel, bauxite, and copper resources here,” he said.

Indonesia has the world’s largest nickel reserves, where the country imposed a ban on raw nickel exports in 2020 to encourage investment in domestic metal processing.

Honda Prelude confirmed for UK, hybrid sports coupe utilizing the Civic platform

Honda has previously revived the iconic Integra name for use in the American and Chinese markets.

Despite sporting a different appearance, it still brings one notable similarity – using the base of the Honda Civic.

Now, another iconic name is set to be given a new lease of life, that is the Honda Prelude where this two-door sports car is expected to be offered in the European market in the coming decade.

 

 

Similar to the two mentioned Honda Integra models, this new generation Honda Prelude will also be built based on the Honda Civic platform.

In addition to being offered in left-hand drive (LHD) and right-hand drive (RHD) versions, Honda is expected to market the Prelude sports car with the e:HEV hybrid technology that already exists in the current Civic model.

In its current configuration, the naturally aspirated 2.0-liter hybrid engine is capable of producing up to 181 hp and 232 Nm of torque, but there are reports that the figures will be increased to 208 hp specifically for the Prelude model.

This new generation Honda Prelude also promises an enjoyable driving experience that can be achieved through the perfect balance between driving dynamics and fuel efficiency.

 

 

Certainly, chief engineer Tomoyuki Yamagami has previously emphasized that the Honda Prelude will not be a sportier model than the Honda Civic Type R.

Based on the official images provided, this red Honda Prelude does not bring significant design changes compared to the concept unit showcased during the 2023 Japan Mobility Show.

All four wheel arches are now paired with 20-inch black rims, followed by red brake calipers and a carbon fiber body kit to match.

So far, Honda has not revealed details regarding the cabin design, but considering the low hood structure and high windshield, it can offer a wider field of vision.

The good news is that this sixth-generation Honda Prelude will be showcased to the public at the Goodwood Festival of Speed taking place this week.

Man awarded RM8.95 million after soft-close door snaps his thumb

Perhaps there are some who feel that their BMW is already expensive enough to disturb their pockets, but there are those who become ‘richer’ after owning a BMW.

An American man has won a lawsuit worth USD 1.9 million (RM 8.95 million) after his finger was caught and severed by a door with a soft-close function.

Godwin Boateng, a self-employed software engineer, claimed that the soft-close door on his 2013 BMW X5 was not functioning properly and trapped the tip of his thumb.

In the incident in July 2016, Boateng was resting his finger on the driver’s door of the X5 with the door open about one foot. The door then closed, trapping his thumb until it severed. Surgeons were unable to reattach his finger.

Boateng sued BMW for an amount of USD 3 million (RM 14.13 million), stating that he would face a loss of USD 250,000 (RM 1.12 million) in annual income as a self-employed software engineer.

BMW inspected Boateng’s X5 and determined that there was no issue with the soft-close door. The German company also stated that the owner’s manual warned about the door and mentioned that the “the plaintiff understood since childhood not to put a finger or body part between a door and its frame while it is closing.”

The case gained traction, and earlier this month, the jury agreed to award compensation worth USD 1.9 million (RM 8.95 million). BMW was not found guilty for the faulty door, but the jury still believed the company was 100 percent at fault for Boateng’s thumb injury.

In the lawsuit claim, Boateng argued that BMW’s soft-close door is more dangerous compared to windows that use sensors to detect objects between the window and frame.

The lawsuit also included graphic descriptions of Boateng’s thumb injury, stating that the door not so “softly snapped through the flesh, nerves, blood vessels, tendons, musculature, and bone structure of Boateng’s right thumb.”

Following the assessment, BMW maintained that there was no damage to the vehicle or the functioning of the soft-close door.

However, it is uncertain whether they will make any design changes in the future.

Photos credit: NY Post

Hennessey Venom F5 crashes during high speed test, driver escaped with no injury

A Hennessey test driver narrowly escaped an accident at a speed of 400km/h involving the Venom F5 hypercar at the Kennedy Space Center in Florida recently.

According to a statement by Hennessey on their Instagram, the testing team at that time was testing the aerodynamic settings for the 1,817hp F5.

It lost downforce at a speed of 250 mph (402km/h), causing the driver to lose control. What’s remarkable is that the driver escaped the accident without any injuries.

The cause of the incident is not yet known. Hennessey stated that their team is analyzing data to determine the cause of the incident. “I am very grateful to our team of engineers and technicians who designed and built a very strong vehicle,” said Hennessey in a statement.

“We also thank the first response teams and staff at KSC for their prompt response in ensuring the safety of all parties.”

Hennessey claims the Venom F5 to be the fastest vehicle in the world, capable of reaching speeds of 311 mph (500km/h). However, no attempts to reach that speed have been made (up to this point).

There are no details about the condition of the vehicle or the accident situation. It is hoped that the damage is not too severe. Nonetheless, we are excited to see Hennessey achieve a speed of 500km/h one day.

Proton e.MAS calls for more dealership opportunities, apply here

A few weeks ago, Proton announced the appointment of the first 17 official e.MAS dealers during the brand’s launch on June 12.

To date, this number has increased to 18 dealers across Malaysia.

The establishment of 18 Proton e.Mas branches, represented by 16 dealers, signifies a significant step towards leading the development of an extensive and comprehensive network.

Seventeen of these branches are strategically located throughout Peninsular Malaysia: 3 in Kuala Lumpur, 4 in Selangor, 2 in Johor, 3 in Perak, 2 in Penang, 1 in Kedah, 1 in Kelantan, and 1 in Pahang. One branch is situated in East Malaysia, specifically in Sabah.

These branches operate under a comprehensive network model, ranging from 1S centers to 3S centers to ensure customers receive holistic services from every aspect.

This development demonstrates PRO-NET’s dedication to establishing a complete and comprehensive ecosystem to ensure readiness for prospective Proton e.MAS owners.

PRO-NET aims to achieve 30 dealer branches by 2025, with a flexible expansion plan based on high demand.

PRO-NET is seeking interested and committed partners to join the Proton e.MAS dealer network in the following areas:

  • Alor Setar
  • Kuala Terengganu
  • Selangor
  • Kuala Lumpur
  • Seremban
  • Melaka
  • Johor Bahru
  • Batu Pahat
  • Muar
  • Kuching
  • Sibu
  • Bintulu
  • Miri
  • Sandakan, and
  • Tawau.

If you are interested in being part of the journey towards a sustainable future, please email: Zhaole@proton.com / affendyk@proton.com

Free parking for EVs in cities soon?

IN an effort to promote the use of electric vehicles (EV), Housing and Local Government (KPKT) Minister Nga Kor Ming said the government is considering waiving parking fees for EVs in cities.

According to a report by The Star, Nga said that the proposal is being mulled following the recent announcement to introduce “green plates” for EVs.

He added that his ministry is in discussions with the respective local councils to consider the feasibility of the proposal.

Nga cited London as an example, where a congestion fee of about RM90 per entry is imposed on non-EV cars into the city while EVs are exempted from parking fees.

In May, Transport Minister Anthony Loke, announced a new road tax structure for EVs that is up to 85% lower than the outgoing one.

It’s really nice to own an EV in Malaysia…

It is commendable that the government is always seeking ways to accelerate and promote the use of EVs among the public but as we know, all EVs in Malaysia are being sold above the RM100,000 mark, meaning those who can actually afford them are from the upper-middle to upper class.

So why does the government feel the need to give free parking to them? As far as this writer is concerned, parking fees have never been an issue for them.

It does feel like EV owners have been given enough privileges. Not only they are exempted from paying road tax until 2026, they can now park for free whenever they enter the city.

Instead of continuously giving away more benefits to just one group of people, it would be better if the government shifts its focus to bettering public transportation services so that they can be fully utilised by the rakyat.

BYD opens its first EV assembly plant in Thailand

The Chinese automotive manufacturer BYD has recently launched the opening of its first vehicle assembly plant in the Southeast Asia region.

The plant, located in Rayong, Thailand, has a production capacity of approximately 150,000 units per year and will serve as the assembly location for its four key models, namely Dophin, Atto 3, Song, and Sealion.

Additionally, one of BYD’s subsidiaries is reported to be establishing a battery production plant at the same location.

 

 

Thailand has traditionally been a hub for assembly and regional car exports, long dominated by Japanese manufacturers such as Toyota, Honda, and Isuzu.

By 2030, the country aims to transition 30 percent of its annual production of 2.5 million vehicles to electric vehicles (EVs). As a result, BYD plans to make Thailand its manufacturing hub for exports to the ASEAN market and other countries.

In addition to Thailand, the EV company is also reportedly planning to open its second ASEAN assembly plant in Indonesia by 2026.

Mugen turns up the heat on the new Honda Freed

THERE are three certainties in life: death, taxes and Mugen developing a bodykit for pretty much every new Honda out there.

After introducing a bodykit for the Civic Type R FL5, Honda’s famed in-house tuner has now pulled the covers off an upgrade package for the newly launched Freed.

According to Mugen, the package is developed based on the concept of “Sports for Everyone” for customers who lead an active lifestyle.

Not much information is provided, but as you can see, the Mugen bodykit gives the otherwise plain MPV a sportier look.

Mugen has developed two separate packages for the Air and Crosstar variants. The former, which appears rather bare bones its standard form, now looks more aggressive with the Mugen grille, along with a pair of air vents and  splitter on the front bumper.

As for its side profile, the Freed gains a prominent black stripe, window visors, and side skirts. It also appears slightly lower than the standard version, suggesting that this package may also include lowered suspension.

At the rear, the presence of a roof-mounted spoiler, tailgate garnish, air vents, and a diffuser complete the Freed’s fresh looks.

Meanwhile, the Crosstar variant, which already looks pretty rugged thanks to SUV-like design elements, is further enhanced with black ‘MUGEN’ lettering on the hood and tailgate, camouflage stripes around the body, aftermarket alloy wheels, black side mirrors, and a rear spoiler.

As expected, Mugen’s package includes cosmetic revisions only. In its home market, the Freed is available with a 1.5-litre four-cylinder engine producing 117 hp and 142 Nm, paired with a CVT transmission with the option of front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive.

It is also offered in a hybrid e:HEV version featuring a combination of a 1.5-litre engine generating 105 hp and 127 Nm, along with an electric motor producing 121 hp and 253 Nm.

Diesel seizures drop 87 percent since subsidy rationalisation – KPDN

Since the implementation of the targeted diesel subsidy on June 10, diesel seizures have seen a decrease of 87 percent, said Datuk Armizan Mohd Ali, the Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Minister.

Armizan said the downtrend is based on a comparison during the 20-day period before and after the implementation of the targeted diesel subsidy.

From May 20 to June 9, there were 65 cases of diesel seizures recorded, involving the seizure of 520,803 liters of diesel. However, from June 10 to June 30, statistics show that there were only 14 cases, involving 68,457 litres.

“The number of individuals arrested in the subsidised diesel cases also dropped during the same period that is from 40 people to just one person. This comparison shows a significant decrease in the number of cases,” he said.

Effective June 10, the government had set the retail price of diesel at RM3.35 per litre at all petrol stations throughout Peninsular Malaysia, while the retail price of the fuel for Sabah, Sarawak and Labuan remains at RM2.15 per litre.

However, Armizan said there was an increase in the RON95 petrol seizures with 37 cases, involving 17,064 litres of this fuel during the May 20 to June 9 period compared to 46 cases, involving the confiscation of 14,011 litres of this fuel, after the implementation of diesel subsidy targeting.

He also mentioned that the total number of arrests increased from 10 to 17 people for the same period.

To combat these activities, he said his team will continue to improve enforcement and monitoring activities on the misappropriation of controlled goods through the implementation of Ops Tiris 3.0 nationwide.

“Close cooperation with other enforcement agencies is also being held to tackle leakages comprehensively and effectively,” he added.

Tamiya releases a 1/24 Mercedes 300 SL “see through” model for you to drool at

We are familiar with scale model kits that need to be assembled, painted, and detailed to resemble a real car, providing satisfaction for hobby enthusiasts. However, how often do we come across a kit with a clear body that can reveal the chassis and components inside the car?

Tamiya has released the 1/24 scale “full view” model of the Mercedes-Benz 300 SL, the latest addition to their series of plastic models.

When assembled, this model has a length of 188mm, a width of 75mm, and a height of 53mm. The body of the 300 SL is intricately modeled and can be assembled without painting, allowing you to appreciate and gaze at the details inside.

The iconic ‘gull wing’ doors can also be opened, as well as the front hood. The cabin section is also detailed with sporty seats, gear lever, and instrument panel. Other parts are also quite realistic, such as the suspension, mesh in the front air space, logos, emblems, and rubber tires.

Of course, beneath this clear body, you can observe the tubular chassis frame and the 3.0-liter 6-cylinder engine. It is a unique model when assembled.

RMN receives only four out of 18 planned vessels – audit report

An audit review has found that the procurement and acquisition performance of the Royal Malaysian Navy’s (TLDM) vessels under the 11th Malaysia Plan (RMK-11) and RMK-12 is lower than the set targets.

The Auditor General’s Report 2/2024 states that TLDM only received four ships out of the planned 18, which amounts to only 22.2 percent of the target.

“TLDM was supposed to acquire 10 Littoral Mission Ships (LMS) under RMK-11 and RMK-12, but only four LMS ships were completed in procurement and received by December 31, 2022,” the report said.

“TLDM was also supposed to receive two Multi-Role Support Ships (MRSS) under RMK-12, but the procurement will only be carried out under RMK-13 due to funding constraints.”

Furthermore, this situation has led to TLDM still using ships that exceed their operational lifespan.

In addition, the delay in the readiness of five Littoral Combat Ships (LCS) has affected the failure to achieve the ship ownership targets. These ships were supposed to be prepared and received between 2019 and 2022, but as of December 2022, the ships had not been received.

As a result, based on the decision of the Cabinet Meeting on April 20, 2022, the government has decided to reduce the procurement of LCS ships by only one unit.

According to the Auditor General’s Report released yesterday, the 18 ships that TLDM was supposed to receive consisted of 10 LMS, 6 LCS, and two MRSS.

Mercedes-Benz launches 3 AMG models: C 63 S E Performance, GLB 35 4MATIC, GLA 45 S 4MATIC+

Mercedes-Benz Malaysia presented three high-performance AMG models for the local market, namely the Mercedes-AMG C 63 S E Performance F1 Edition, Mercedes-AMG GLA 45 S 4MATIC+, and Mercedes-AMG GLB 35 4MATIC.

These new models can be seen up close at the Mercedes-Benz World event held at KL Base, Sungai Besi from 5th to 7th July.

 

Mercedes-AMG C 63 S E Performance F1 Edition

 

Challenging the BMW M3, this model is equipped with a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four engine paired with a 201 hp electric motor, resulting in a total output of 680 hp and 1,020 Nm of torque.

With an output of 238 hp per liter, the C 63 S E Performance sedan is a game-changer in AMG’s 55-year history.

The F1 edition features unique characteristics such as alpine grey MANUFAKTUR color scheme, large AMG logo, red trim lines, along with exclusive emblem, F1 Edition floor mats, and F1 logo.

The Mercedes-AMG C 63 S E Performance F1 Edition is available for sale starting from RM958,888 on the road, excluding insurance.

 

 

Mercedes-AMG GLA 45 S 4MATIC+

 

The fast GLA 45 S 4MATIC+ crossover is powered by a 2.0-liter inline-four engine producing 421 hp and 500 Nm, allowing it to accelerate from 0-100 km/h in just 4.3 seconds.

Launched globally this year, the GLA 45 S 4MATIC+ brings minimal cosmetic changes such as a new front apron, AMG logo on the hood, new MULTIBEAM LED lighting unit, and minor adjustments to the LED taillights.

The cabin features twin 10.25-inch screens with specific AMG display, Nappa/microfiber MICROCUT-wrapped AMG Performance steering wheel, and a more powerful MBUX entertainment system.

The selling price starts from RM539,888.

 

Mercedes-AMG GLB 35 4MATIC

 

For those seeking a more practical AMG vehicle, the Mercedes-AMG GLB 35 4MATIC crossover wagon is available.

The 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four engine delivers 306 hp, now paired with a 48-volt starter generator system providing an additional 13 hp.

With the all-wheel-drive system and 8-speed AMG Speedshift DCT transmission, the GLB 35 4MATIC can accelerate from 0-100 km/h in just 5.5 seconds before reaching a top speed of 250 km/h.

Changes include a new front apron design, MULTIBEAM LED lighting with Adaptive Highbeam Assist Plus, and redesigned taillight graphics.

The interior brings a new Nappa leather-wrapped AMG Performance steering wheel, AMG function buttons, the latest generation MBUX entertainment system, and a specific AMG display. The selling price for the Mercedes-AMG GLB 35 4MATIC starts from RM418,888.

 

The Mercedes-Benz World exhibition is open to the public from 10 am to 6 pm, showcasing all 30 models from various vehicle segments, including the Mercedes-Benz C 350 e, Mercedes-AMG C 43 4MATIC, Mercedes-Benz EQE 350+, and Mercedes-Benz EQE 350+ SUV. Also on display is the world’s first car, the Benz Patent Motor Car, which appeared in 1886 and was powered by a one-liter engine producing about 0.6 hp.

Japan wants to build a 500 km conveyor belt system to address truck driver shortage

Those who have traveled abroad are surely impressed by the efficiency of staff and machinery at airports in handling hundreds to thousands of bags in a day. Now, imagine the same system, but over a longer distance.

Yes, that is one of the solutions being proposed by the Japanese Ministry of Transport in an effort to address the increasingly acute shortage of truck drivers each year. According to Japan News, a system called Autoflow Road, or simply a conveyor belt system, will be built to connect Tokyo and Osaka over 500 km for the purpose of distributing cargo.

 

 

This conveyor belt system can be built adjacent to existing main roads or using underground routes. With continuous operation every day, theoretically, this system can handle the same cargo delivery capacity made by 25,000 truck drivers in a day.

As previously reported, Japan is expected to face a shortage of up to 36 percent of the workforce needed to handle 1.40 billion tons of cargo by 2030. By potentially reducing up to 25,000 trucks from the roads, it may help alleviate traffic congestion, reduce emission levels, and mitigate the impact of the labor shortage crisis.

 

 

The use of a conveyor belt system is not unfamiliar, as Japan itself already uses a similar method to transport limestone over 23 km. The main challenge, of course, is the construction cost.

According to a study conducted by a construction company, the cost of building an underground tunnel starts from ¥7 billion (RM204 million) and could reach up to ¥80 billion (RM2.3 billion) for every 10 km. Therefore, the total cost of building a system connecting Tokyo and Osaka could potentially reach up to ¥3.7 trillion (RM108.2 billion)!

You can now transform the DeLorean DMC12 into an EV with the conversion from Electrogenic

Although the DeLorean DMC-12 looks great and cool in the Back to the Future film trilogy, many viewers and fans are unaware that the actual car with its stainless-steel body is not fast.
The car is powered by a rear-mounted V6 engine producing 130hp and can accelerate from 0 to 100km/h in 9.5 seconds (tested in 1981). Now, Electrogenic – a UK firm – has a solution to further speed up the DeLorean with their bolt-on EV kit.
The fuel tank is replaced with a 42kWh battery pack. Then, the engine bay is filled with an electric motor, inverter, charger, and a well-integrated cooling system.

This electric package is presented in a stainless-steel casing matching the car’s body, along with Electrogenic branding in the same font as the DeLorean. The kit also comes with a custom driveshaft and control unit with driving modes (Sport, Eco, and Town).

Electrogenic claims that the electric motor in this DeLorean produces 215hp, which is 85hp more than the original engine. With the conversion to an EV, Electrogenic states that it enables the DeLorean to accelerate from 0 to 96km/h in less than five seconds.

The driving range is up to 240km. As for charging, it can use a CCS charger for DC, though Electrogenic does not disclose the maximum charging rate and time required.

The price is also not specified, but according to Electrogenic, this EV kit is a plug-and-play directly onto the original engine mounts. No cutting, drilling, or welding is required. Nonetheless, the electric version of the DeLorean will surely make Doc Brown exclaim, “Great Scott!”.

Singapore to ban old motorcycles completely starting July 2028

The National Environment Agency (NEA) of Singapore has announced that older foreign motorcycles will soon be disallowed on the roads in the country, while foreign commercial diesel vehicles must comply with lower smoke emissions threshold.

According to a report by Channel News Asia, the move is part of the Singaporean government’s efforts to protect air quality.

NEA stated that starting July 1, 2028, foreign-registered motorcycles registered in their home country before July 1, 2023, will be prohibited from entering Singapore.

Previously, in 2018, NEA announced a similar requirement barring oldlocal motorcycles from Singapore’s roads from July 2028.

This is because older motorcycles generally cause more pollution compared to motorcycles complying to the newer Euro emission standards.

“The requirement will now be extended to foreign-registered motorcycles,” said NEA.

“Foreign motorcyclists entering Singapore are required to use motorcycles registered on or after July 1, 2003, that also comply with Singapore’s in-use emission standards,” the agency added.

The ban on older foreign motorcycles is part of measures to limit vehicular emissions, as they contain pollutants that may affect respiratory health.

NEA also stated that starting on April 1, 2026, the threshold for turning back foreign commercial diesel vehicles entering Singapore will be tightened to 50 HSU (Hartridge Smoke Unit), which is a metric for smoke emissions from diesel vehicles.

Pro-Net to fully manage Proton e.MAS brand

In addition to smart, Proton’s wholly-owned subsidiary Pro-Net will take under its wing the Proton e.MAS EV brand, which was officially launched on June 12, 2024.

In an official statement, Pro-Net said it is tasked with the crucial responsibilities of establishing the e.MAS brand, enhancing its market presence, and preparing for upcoming product launches.

Pro-Net’s roles roles include recruiting a dedicated team, setting up a robust dealer network, and fostering partnerships with charging providers to ensure a seamless EV ecosystem.

With a proven track record from successfully launching the smart #1, currently a top contender in the premium SUV segment, and the impending introduction of the smart #3, the company is well-equipped to champion the e.MAS brand.

The Pro-Net team The team leverages its well-established networks, digital platforms, and expert personnel to ensure that e.MAS not only matches but surpasses the success seen with the smart models in the EV landscape.

Dr Li Chunrong, Chief Executive Officer of Proton, expressed confidence in Pro-Net’s capabilities.

“The expertise Pro-Net has developed over the past two years positions us uniquely to elevate Proton e.MAS to the forefront of the EV industry.

“Our future customers will benefit from a holistic range of services that not only meet but exceed their expectations, similar to the premium experience provided to smart vehicle owners,” Dr. Li said.

The excitement surrounding the e.MAS brand was evident as over 25,000 participants entered the recent contest to guess the new brand name.. The winners are as follows:

  • Grand Prize of RM5,000 – Puteri Hanna Batrisha binti Ibrahim
  • Runner-up Prize of RM1,500 – Noor Hidayah Binti Mohd Rodzi
  • Third Prize of RM1,000 – Ahmad Norrizzuan Bin Noor Azhar

Pro-Net also announced that e.MAS’s official social media accounts are now live under the username “Proton e.MAS Cars” for Facebook and Xiaohongshu, and “@protonemasofficial” for Instagram and TikTok.

Aston Martin DBX707 AMR24 is for F1 fans who want to stand out

Last year, we’ve seen the Aston Martin DBX707 AMR23, which was conceived to celebrate the automaker’s successes in Formula 1.

Now, a year on, Aston Martin has introduced the updated version of the special edition known as the AMR24. It is named after the F1 car used by team Aston Martin Aramco this year and shares the same appearance as the official F1 medical car.

This means the DBX707 AMR24 comes in Podium Green, but to be different from others, customers can also get it in Onyx Black or Neutron White.

The exterior is complimented by Aston Martin Racing Green or AMR Lime brake calipers, 23-inch Fortis wheels in either satin or glossy black finish, and an AMR24 engine plaque.

For the interior, Aston Martin offers two colour schemes: Onyx black (Monotone) with a striking Lime stitch and piping, or Onyx Black / Eifel Green Duotone with a lime contrast stitch.

Customers can also opt for trims in carbon fibre and dark chrome or titanium mesh trim matched with satin chrome. Other unique touches include the Aston Martin logo applied in foil to the dash panel and “AMR24” etchings on the door sills.

There are no changes to the DBX707’s 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 engine. Like in the standard version, the AMG-sourced mill puts out 707 PS and 900 Nm of torque, channeled to the wheels through a nine-speed automatic transmission.

Performance-wise, the DBX707 can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.3 seconds and reach a maximum speed of 310 km/h.

According to Aston Martin, bookings for the DBX707 AMR24 have already opened, but the automaker did not reveal exactly how many will be produced.

Purchase new Goodyear tires, bring home a brand new Mercedes-Benz car

Goodyear Malaysia has announced the launch of the “Win A Car” campaign starting today until October 31, 2024.

This exclusive campaign offers the opportunity to take home a luxurious Mercedes-Benz car, as well as the chance to win an iPhone 15 smart device every two weeks with the purchase of two or more tires sized 17 inches and above.

To participate, customers can follow these simple steps:

Step 1: Purchase two or more units of 17” & above Goodyear tires from any participating Goodyear store, Goodyear Malaysia Official Store on Lazada or Shopee, or Goodyear Grab voucher (SNPL).

Step 2: Register and participate through the registration link goodyear2024.co.

 

 

With the purchase of any Goodyear tire, each customer is eligible to receive the Worry Free Assurance (WFA) comprehensive guarantee package, which provides road hazard protection for one year.

Customers will also receive free tire safety checks twice, as well as a five-year guarantee for any purchased tire imperfections.

According to Hugh Yun, the Managing Director of Goodyear Malaysia, the main objective of this campaign is to give back to the customers for their support that has made Goodyear a leader in the industry.

“We are excited to bring this promotion to our loyal customers. This campaign is an opportunity for us to affirm Goodyear’s position as a leader in the tire industry in Malaysia. We are committed to continuing to introduce innovative products to ensure that our customers can enjoy a safe and enjoyable journey wherever they go.”

“The ‘Win a Car’ campaign demonstrates our commitment to providing superior premium tires that meet consumer needs. We also want to assure the people of Malaysia that Goodyear remains the most reliable tire brand, and they can continue to rely on Goodyear to enjoy the performance of premium quality tires,” said Hugh Yun.

Further information about the “Win A Car” campaign can be found on the website Goodyear Malaysia.

Signify and Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS Formula 1 Team launch new partnership to drive responsible innovation on and off the track

SIGNIFY, the world leader in lighting, today announces a new partnership with the Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team. Connected by their shared passion for technological innovation and sustainability the partnership will drive forward the team’s vision of becoming one of the world’s most sustainable professional sports teams.

Eric Rondolat, CEO, Signify said: “We are proud to partner with Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1, a team that is determined to lead both on and off the track.

“We share a passion for responsible innovation to drive progress in our industries and beyond,” he added.

Toto Wolff, Team Principal and CEO, Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team, commented, “Innovation and performance are at the heart of everything we do. We are also conscious of our wider social responsibilities and therefore embed sustainability in every action.

“Partnering with Signify is an exciting step that will help us make further progress in both of these areas. We look forward to working together to establish synergies in this area and their support in our ambition to become one of the world’s most sustainable sports teams.”

Signify and Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 are committed to responsible innovation, founded on a shared belief that performance should not come at any cost and that sustainability does not compromise on performance.

As both teams continue to drive the transformation of their industries, responsible innovation elevates performance and leads to sustainable outcomes.

Signify has led the transformation and decarbonization of the lighting sector, and recently announced its 2040 Climate Transition Plan, setting out its vision to reach net-zero by 2040.

The company has reduced GHG emissions across the full value chain by 50 percent since 2019 and continues to advocate for energy efficiency and an accelerated energy transition.

With the new partnership, comes a commitment from Signify to share knowledge and expertise to support Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team in developing its Climate Transition Plan.

 

Kawasaki Japan and FamilyMart announce collaboration, offer FamilyMart-themed Ninja ZX-4RR as prize!

Leading Japanese retail chain FamilyMart has announced its support for Kawasaki Motor Japan’s efforts to achieve carbon neutrality.

The collaborative campaign between the two parties offers a grand prize of a Kawasaki Ninja ZX-4RR featuring the FamilyMart-themed livery.

The Kawasaki Ninja ZX-4RR with the ‘FamilyMart’ livery is actually a 40th-anniversary edition of the Ninja launched at the end of last year, featuring the iconic blue/lime green/white color scheme dating back to the ZXR super sports series from 1989.

 

 

Kawasaki and FamilyMart enthusiasts can download the FamiPay app and fill out the provided form for a chance to win a Ninja ZX-4RR 40th Anniversary Edition.

Moreover, Kawasaki customers purchasing motorcycles of 401cc and above at Kawasaki Plaza stores will receive up to 3,000 yen (RM87.61) worth of FamilyMart points.

There is also a campaign where participants can win up to 100,000 yen (RM2,920) worth of points by joining the July Daily Challenge Game available in the app.

 

Both companies will also collaborate during the 45th edition of the Suzuka 8 Hours endurance race on July 19, where the FamilyMart-branded Ninja e-1 EV and Ninja 7 Hybrid motorcycles will be showcased at the company’s booth space.