The Road Transport Department (JPJ) has announced a recall campaign Series 2/2024 involving several models from three brands namely Toyota, Mercedes-Benz, and Chery.
According to JPJ, the recalls have been conducted by the respective manufacturers since March 2024 and are ongoing until now.
The following are all the models involved in the recall campaign:
Toyota
Corolla Cross (July – September 2023) – 2,379 units
Mercedes-Benz
C 200 (January – July 2023) – 1 unit
CLA 200, CLA 45 AMG 4Matic, A 250, A 45 AMG 4Matic dan S 400 Hybrid (June 2012 – January 2021) – 11 units
EQS 500 4Matic, EQS 580 4Matic, GLC 300 4Matic, GLC 350 E 4Matic, AMG EQE 53 4Matic+, AMG EQS 53 4Matic+, AMG SL 43 Roadster, Maybach S 580 4Matic and S 580 E (January-November 2023) – 1,297 units
GLE 450 4Matic and GLS 450 4Matic (February 2018 – November 2023) – 1,302 units
Chery
Omoda 5 (November 2023-April 2024) – 600 units
The department also stated that, following the rear axle failure involving an Omoda 5 that went viral recently, Chery Auto Malaysia Sdn Bhd promptly initiated recalls since May 3, 2024.
As of June 7, 2024, Chery has inspected 592 units out of the 600 units (98.67%) of the Omoda 5 affected by the recall.
“The remaining owners have been contacted, and the recall is expected to be completed by the end of June 2024,” JPJ said in a Facebook post.
BATIK Air has announced the launch of a new private terminal transfer service designed exclusively for its Business Class passengers.
In partnership with Kia through their sole distributor, Dinamikjaya Motors Sdn. Bhd., Batik Air will enhance the travel experience for both Business Class Promo and Flexi passengers by offering a seamless and premium transfer between the Main Terminal Building and the Satellite Building of KLIA Terminal 1.
Passengers will be chauffeured between the pick-up point at Gate G1 of the Main Terminal Building and the Satellite Building in the all-electric Kia EV9 and the new Carnival.
The airline company said the exclusive offering supplements the existing bus transfer provided by Malaysia Airports (MAHB) due to the temporary suspension of the aerotrain service.
Datuk Chandran Rama Muthy, Chief Executive Officer of Batik Air said the company is taking proactive steps to reduce the environmental impact while ensuring our Business Class passengers enjoy unparalleled comfort and luxury.
“This initiative aligns perfectly with our long-term vision of achieving a more sustainable future in aviation,” he added, emphasising the airline’s ongoing efforts to integrate environmentally conscious practices into its operations and its dedication to sustainability.
Kevin Ahn, President and Chief Executive Officer of Kia Asia Pacific said that partnership with Batik Air aligned with Kia corporate vision of Plan S and their commitment to achieve carbon neutrality by 2045.
The ISUZU MU-X, which shares its underpinnings with the D-Max pickup truck, has been given a facelift in Thailand.
Still in its second generation, the MU-X now appears more snazzy thanks to sharper front and rear lights, as well as a new bumper design that incorporates an air curtain. The wheels have also been redesigned to give a sportier look.
For the 2025 model year, the MU-X is available in a new RS variant, which features a more aggressive design with a mesh grille, black painted wheels, roof, pillars, and side mirrors, as well as bright green accents around the RS logo and the wheels.
The interior showcases a new design on the instrument panel, seats, and door trims, in line with the brand’s ‘Bold and Dynamic’ design concept.
Standard features include a seven-inch digital instrument cluster, a nine-inch touchscreen infotainment system, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, and a brown leather upholstery. The RS variant also receives ambient lighting.
Additionally, the MU-X is equipped with Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) that include various driver assistance and safety features depending on the variant. It also includes a ‘transparent bonnet’ feature similar to what Land Rover offers to make off-roading just a little bit easier.
There are no mechanical changes whatsoever, meaning the MU-X will retain the 1.9-litre turbodiesel engine with 148 hp and the 3.0-litre mill with 187 hp. Both are paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. 4WD is offered as an option, but it is standard on the RS variant.
AFTER much anticipation by Tesla owners and residents of Penang Island, Tesla has been officially launched in Penang.
The inauguration also featured the 2024 Model 3 Performance, Model Y, and Cybertruck. These three models are showcased at Level G, Center at Gurney Plaza, George Town from June 21 to June 30.
According to Tesla, this launch is important as they have plans to expand their market and services in the northern states of Malaysia.
Tesla has also announced its plans to open service locations after sales on Penang Island very soon.
The public in Penang can now test drive the Model 3 and Model Y, contact 1800-81-0655 or visit tesla.com/en_my/event/tesla-penang-testdrive for more information and to schedule a test drive.
Tesla now has three charging stations in Penang located at The Ship Campus, All Seasons Place, and Sunway Carnival, providing a total of 12 Wall Connectors and 4 Super V3 Chargers.
Tesla has also confirmed the installation project of the first V4 charging station in Penang at Gurney Plaza.
This charging station will further facilitate the public in owning a Tesla in Penang. Plans to further expand charging infrastructure will also be implemented in the future.
IN addition to the C43 and A35 models, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia (MBM) has also unveiled another model, the Merc-AMG GLA35 4Matic, which is also available as CKD (locally assembled).
As the name suggests, the Mercedes-AMG GLA35 4Matic is the most powerful GLA variant for the Malaysian market, surpassing the GLA200 and GLA250 AMG Line models.
For the AMG GLA35, it is equipped with a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder turbo engine producing 306hp and 400Nm of torque. It is also paired with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system and is capable of accelerating to 100km/h in 5.2 seconds.
This performance is achieved with the help of an 8-speed AMG Speedshift dual-clutch automatic transmission and the 4Matic all-wheel-drive system. There are also five driving modes available through the AMG Dynamic Select menu.
Standard exterior features include an AMG grille with a new apron, updated front and rear lights, Multibeam LED headlamps with Adaptive Highbeam Assist Plus, 20-inch 5-spoke AMG rims, and red brake calipers.
As a family SUV (despite its high performance), the GLA35 comes equipped with Thermotronic climate control, ambient lighting with 64 colors, leather-wrapped sports seats, Keyless-Go, Easy-Pack, Hands-Free access, Carbon-structure trim, and red Manufaktur seat belts.
Technological features include the latest MBUX system, AMG menu display, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, Augmented Reality Navigation, and a Burmester 710-watt audio system.
The Mercedes-AMG GLA35 4Matic 2024 can be yours for RM363,888.
AFTER more than a year of the introduction of the Mercedes A-Class facelift, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia (MBM) now brings forth the latest AMG A35.
This compact sedan is assembled in Malaysia (CKD) and can be yours at the price of RM343,888 (on-the-road price without insurance).
The heart of this A35 is a 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine producing 306hp and 400Nm of torque. The engine receives an additional boost of power up to 10kW and 150Nm from the 48-volt hybrid electric system for assistance during initial acceleration.
All the output is transmitted to all four wheels using the 8-speed AMG Speedshift gearbox and the 4Matic propulsion system. Externally, the Mercedes-AMG A35 4Matic features an AMG grille, round AMG badge, new front apron, rear spoiler, updated front headlight design, round exhausts, 19-inch 5-spoke AMG rims, red brake calipers, and Adaptive Highbeam Assist Plus.
Inside the cabin, this sporty compact sedan is equipped with a steering wheel with AMG Dynamic Select switches, touchpad on the steering wheel, Nappa leather upholstery, sports seats, black and silver AMG Design accents, red seat belts, ambient 64-color lighting, and illuminated side sills.
Like other models, the A35 also comes with the latest MBUX NTG7 system enhanced with various features, in addition to the Burmester audio system and USB Package Plus.
CHERY Auto Malaysia’s third offering, the Chery Tiggo 7 Pro, has been officially launched at a price of RM123,800.
However, the first 2,000 customers will enjoy a special price of RM119,800. The SUV comes with a seven-year/150,000-km warranty, seven-year free towing service and five-year free service.
In terms of size, the Tiggo 7 Pro measures 4,513 mm in length, 1,862 mm in width, and 1,696 mm in height, making it shorter but wider and taller compared to its closest competitor, the Proton X70.
Both models have the same wheelbase of 2,670 mm.
For the exterior, the Tiggo 7 Pro comes with front and rear LED lights, sequential turn signals, ‘diamond’ studs on the grille, and 18-inch two-tone alloy wheels.
It is available in four colours: Bloodstone Red with a black roof, Vanilla Blue, Carbon Black, and Khaki White with a black roof.
Moving inside, there is a wide 24.6-inch display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support, a 50W wireless charger, ambient lighting system with 64 colour options, and a Sony audio system with eight speakers.
The front and rear seats, door trims, and steering wheel are wrapped in black synthetic leather upholstery.
Other standard niceties include USB Type A and Type C ports, a panoramic roof, Remote Engine Start, and Walk-Away Auto Lock.
Under the hood of the Tiggo 7 Pro is a 1.6-litre four-cylinder turbo engine delivering a healthy output of 197 PS and 290 Nm of torque.
Paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT) driving the front wheels, the SUV can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 9.5 seconds and reach a top speed of 205 km/h.
According to Chery, the Tiggo 7 Pro can achieve a fuel efficiency level as low as 7.0 liters per 100 km. It also comes with three driving modes: Eco, Normal, and Sport.
In terms of safety, the Tiggo 7 Pro features ADAS level 2.5, incorporating features such as:
Autonomous Emergency Braking
Multi Collision Brake
Blind Spot Detection
Door Opening Warning
Traffic Jam Assist
Intelligent High Beam Control
Front Collision Warning + Rear Collision Warning
Adaptive Cruise Control + Integrated Cruise Control
Lane Departure Warning + Lane Departure Prevention
Mercedes-Benz Malaysia (MBM) today introduced the most powerful version to date for the C-Class, the Mercedes-AMG C43 4Matic. It is assembled at MBM’s assembly plant in Pekan and is offered at a price of RM443,888.
Unlike its previous generation which had a V6 biturbo engine, the 2024 C43 is powered by the M139I 2.0-liter turbo engine that remains powerful, with an output of 408hp at 6,750rpm and 500Nm of torque at 5,000rpm.
This longitudinally-mounted 4-cylinder engine is the first production engine with a turbocharger that uses an electric exhaust gas charger. Technology derived from the world of Formula 1 is designed for quick response at all rpm levels.
The Mercedes-AMG C43 4Matic also features a 10kW and 150Nm powerful electric motor. Paired with the 4Matic all-wheel-drive system and the AMG Speedshift MCT 9G 9-speed gearbox, this sedan can accelerate to 100km/h in just 4.6 seconds. The top speed is 250km/h.
Other features of this new C43 chassis include Dynamic Body Control with Adaptive Damping System, and 19-inch 5-spoke AMG rims.
It also receives other AMG equipment such as a special display, seats, steering wheel, special buttons, Nappa leather upholstery, silver-colored sports brake system with black “AMG” lettering, and a special exhaust system.
The exterior package consists of an AMG grille with vertical slats, an AMG front lip, sporty air intakes, a diffuser, and quad exhausts. The C43 also comes with a panoramic roof featuring Digital Light technology.
The standard AMG Dynamic Select drive mode is included. The AMG Track Pace is a data logging system for track use that can record more than 80 car parameters such as speed, acceleration, steering angle, brake inputs, all of which can be used for analysis (if you want to feel like a race driver).
The technology in the 2024 C43 4Matic includes the latest MBUX system, fingerprint sensor, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, as well as ambient lighting.
Safety features include the Driving Assistance Package Plus, Active Parking Assist with Parktronic, a 360-degree camera, and Guard 360.
Although at first glance it may appear to be a Chiron, this is the Bugatti Tourbillon, a completely new model. The monocoque chassis, suspension, and engine are all new.
Let’s delve into the details and engine figures first. As reported earlier, Bugatti will be releasing a hypercar with a new 16-cylinder engine, here it is.
Behind the cockpit of this Tourbillon is the jam-packed 8.3-liter V16 naturally-aspirated hybrid engine capable of spinning up to 9,500rpm and producing 1,000hp on its own.
But this is not the Tourbillon’s overall output. This is because it receives hybrid assistance developed by Cosworth. There are two electric motors on the front axle, and a third motor at the rear along with the engine.
A 25kWh battery pack supplies 800hp to this electric system, making the total output 1,800hp. Combined with Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires, the Bugatti Tourbillon can accelerate to 100km/h in just 2 seconds.
Then, if you continue to press the pedal to the floor, 200km/h is reached in 5 seconds, and 300km/h in under 10 seconds.
A maximum speed of 380km/h is achieved in less than 25 seconds. Then, if you have the special Speed Key, the Tourbillon’s rear spoiler will ensure the car remains stable up to 444km/h.
Although more complex and more powerful, Bugatti states that the Tourbillon is lighter than the Chiron. It also uses an 800-volt system and can be driven up to 60km in electric mode.
Watch enthusiasts will notice that the Tourbillon showcases many mechanical components that require precision and high quality. It is equipped with electrically powered dihedral doors, and three analog displays for instruments designed by the watchmaker, Switch.
These displays are fixed on the steering column. In the center console, there is a row of aluminum switches, rotary knobs, and crystal buttons to start the V16 engine.
All of these are designed to give the Tourbillon a timeless look. In terms of external design, you will immediately recognize it as a Bugatti at first glance. This Chiron-like design is equipped with a diffuser that starts from the rear of the cabin, almost invisible from a normal view.
The air intakes in the front lamps channel air into large side air inlets, then the iconic horseshoe grille in the front ‘feeds’ air to the radiator while generating downforce.
The active rear spoiler, as usual, also functions as an air brake. The Tourbillon comes with a completely new suspension that is 45 percent lighter than the Chiron.
The Bugatti Tourbillon is expected to enter the market in 2026 with the first 250 units to be produced. Prices start at 3.6 million Euros (RM18.2 million).
After announcing its entry into the Malaysian market last April, the iconic brand Lambretta has now officially launched the X250 and G350 scooters.
Designed with a blend of classic appeal and modern technology, the X250 features a single-cylinder liquid-cooled engine with a displacement of 250 cc that generates 24.8 hp at 8,250 rpm and 24.5 Nm at 6,250 rpm.
The X250 measures in at 1,922 mm in length, 741 mm in width, 1,117 mm in height, and has a wheelbase of 1,370 mm. It has a fuel tank capacity of 7 litres and a dry weight of 165 kg.
It is built around a semi-monocoque frame paired with twin shock absorbers at the front and rear. It is fitted with 12-inch wheels, with 120/70 tyre at the front and 130/70 at the rear.
Additionally, it comes equipped with LED lights, a combination of analog and LCD displays, as well as front and rear disc brakes with ABS for enhanced safety.
On the other hand, the G350 is a premium offering inspired by Milan’s illustrious fashion scene. It boasts a 330 cc single-cylinder engine with liquid cooling that produces 25.8 hp at 7,500 rpm and 25.5 Nm at 6,250 Nm.
Size-wise, it is slightly larger than the X250 with dimensions of 1,956 mm in length, 770 mm in width, 1,129 mm in height, and a wheelbase of 1,400 mm. It has a 9.5-litre fuel tank capacity and a dry weight of 173 kg.
The G350 uses a steel monocoque frame with twin front and rear shock absorbers for its suspension system. It also features 12-inch wheels fitted with Pirelli tyres.
Furthermore, the scooter is equipped with front and rear LED lights, a digital TFT display, and a USB charger located in the glove compartment. Its safety system includes 240 mm front and rear disc brakes, along with ABS.
The selling prices of the X250 and G350 start at RM22,800 and RM29,800, respectively. The X250 is available in silver, green, white, black, and yellow, while the G350 can be had in red, white, and black.
ROUGHLY 180,000 commercial vehicles have not yet applied for the Fleet Card through the Subsidized Diesel Control System 2.0 (SKDS 2.0).
Deputy Minister of Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs, Fuziah Salleh, stated that according to records, there are 389,000 registered commercial vehicles with the Road Transport Department (JPJ), but only 209,000 have applied for the Fleet Card in the SKDS 2.0.
“The total of 209,000 has been approved for diesel subsidy,” she said when approached by reporters. She explained that there are 33 vehicle categories, including 10 categories of public transportation such as school buses and express buses, while the remaining 23 categories involve vehicles for goods transportation and logistics.
“In the goods transportation category, there are 389,000 registered with JPJ, but only about 209,000 have registered to get the Fleet Card, meaning roughly another 180,000 have yet to register.
“Perhaps those who have not registered think they are not eligible or only have one or two vehicles and find it difficult.
“Actually, even one, two, or three vehicles are eligible, no need to have 20 vehicles in a company. As long as they fall under the 23 categories of listed goods transportation vehicles,” she advised applicants in those 23 categories not to worry as those who apply will qualify immediately.
She gave an example, if the Fleet Card application from five oil companies takes time to process, the applicant can keep the receipt and then receive a refund.
“When you have a Fleet Card, discounts are immediately available at the gas station,” she said.
Regarding claims that the RM200 subsidy is insufficient for commercial vehicles, Fuziah stated that no Fleet Card quota has been set for goods transportation vehicles so far.
“The targeting of diesel subsidies under the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs is for companies and we use the Fleet Card system. It’s different from the other two,” she said referring to the Budi Individu or Budi Agri-Commodity system.
For Toyota enthusiasts, they may be eagerly anticipating the emergence of new sports car models such as the successors to the MR2 or Celica.
However, Toyota cannot haphazardly spend money on research and development (R&D) for a product targeted towards a niche group.
Previously, Toyota has collaborated with Subaru to develop the GR86/BRZ, followed by BMW for the GR Supra/Z4. The Japanese brand is determined to release more sports cars, but they acknowledge the challenges of going solo in this endeavor.
Speaking to the Australian media, Toyota Gazoo Racing President Tomoya Takahashi stated, “the sports car market is shrinking in the future. We cannot sustain sports cars as a single brand, Toyota. Collaboration between brands will increase in the future.”
He further expressed, “this mission is not about helping manufacturers survive but to protect car enthusiasts. This is why we need to collaborate to share costs and subsequently implement sports car projects.”
Similar to a rapidly expanding restaurant, Toyota has a few new ‘menus’ that will be served to its customers. Among those on the list are the affordable FR coupe S-FR, the FWD hot hatch Starlet, the Celica coupe, MR2, and a Toyota GR GT3 race car prototype already spotted at the Spa-Francorchamps circuit.
However, before launching impractical sporty models, Gazoo Racing will likely introduce a lineup of high-performance SUVs tailored for families seeking more space.
Malaysia Airlines confirms that flight MH199 from Hyderabad to Kuala Lumpur made an emergency landing in Hyderabad after one of its engines experienced sparks of fire.
The incident occurred after the aircraft took off from Rajiv Gandhi International Airport early this morning.
In a statement, Malaysia Airlines stated that the aircraft turned back due to an issue with one of the engines during ascent after takeoff.
“The aircraft safely landed at Rajiv Gandhi International Airport at 3:21 am local time, and all crew and passengers disembarked safely. All passengers were transferred to another flight to continue their journey. Safety remains Malaysia Airlines’ top priority,” the statement read.
Earlier reports indicated that flight MH199 had to make an emergency landing in Hyderabad after one of its engines experienced sparks of fire.
Times of India reported that the aircraft, carrying 138 passengers, departed at 12:45 am but had to return for the emergency landing.
PROTON achieved another historic milestone in its 41-year history when it broke through five million units produced barrier.
The record setting vehicle, a Proton X90 Flagship was revealed during a visit to the company headquarters at the Centre Of Excellence (COE) complex by Tengku Datuk Seri Utama Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz, Malaysian Minister of Investment, Trade, and Industry, and Jin Zhuanglong, Chinese Minister of Industry, and Information Technology.
In a statement, Dr Li Chunrong, Chief Executive Officer, Proton said the national automaker was tasked with mobilising Malaysians and establishing a local automotive ecosystem when it was formed in 1983.
“Today, we continue to play a critical role in the nation’s economy. Over 100,000 people earn a living through activities linked to Proton and each of them played a role in driving the company towards this landmark achievement of five million units,” he said.
Since joining forces with the Geely Group in 2017, Proton has launched four all-new models jointly developed with its shareholder, upgraded its locally designed models, and introduced intelligence and connectivity to its entire lineup.
Together with improvements in product quality, investments in after sales and parts management as well as the establishment of a dealer network with the highest number of 3S/4S outlets, these activities have led to five consecutive years of sales growth with a corresponding increase in production.
From the introduction of the Proton X70 on 12 December 2018, more than 217,000 units of the company’s X-series SUVs have been sold thus far to local and export market customers. This makes Proton far and away the overall leader for SUV sales in Malaysia during that time period.
Sales of the Proton Saga meanwhile have surpassed 2 million units, allowing it to keep its position as the most popular Malaysian-made car of all time.
“Just last week, we confirmed e.MAS as the brand name for future Proton EV products and today as we set yet another milestone, the future is ripe with opportunities for PROTON to continue to provide sustainable mobility for Malaysians and our export markets,” added Dr Li.
BMW has introduced the fourth-generation X3 known by the codename G45. Replacing the previous G01 model, Munich’s latest Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) showcases a more prominent design, an upgraded chassis, and various new technologies.
Here’s what you need to know about the new X3:
Larger footprint
The X3 G45 measures 4,755 mm in length, 1,920 mm in width, and 1,660 mm in height, making it 34 mm longer, 29 mm wider, and 25 mm lower than the model it replaces. The wheelbase has also increased by 1 mm to 2,865 mm.
New design language
BMW claims the new design language featured on the X3 gives it an almost monolithic overall appearance. This is further accentuated by a new structure for the grille, as well as L-shaped lighting elements for daytime running lights, side lights, and turn signals.
There are nine colorus available for the new X3, with one being soild and the rest metallic, including Dune Grey. Models produced at BMW Group Plant Spartanburg will additionally be available with BMW Individual paint finishes.
Depending on the variant, the model comes with lightweight alloy wheels ranging from 18 to 21 inches. The M Sport and M Sport Pro packages are also offered.
High-tech interior
Like most current BMW models, the X3 features a Curved Display and Interaction Bar. The gear lever has been redesigned, while the centre console and door trim are accentuated with lighting elements in contrasting colours.
For infotainment, it employs the latest BMW iDrive with QuickSelect powered by BMW Operating System 9. The operating system also brings selection of additional digital services, which can be made available over the air.
Other standard features include a three-zone climate control system, acoustic glazing, Comfort Access, automatic tailgate, ambient lighting, wireless charging, and BMW Live Cockpit Plus. Customers can also opt for the BMW Live Cockpit Professional, which includes a head-up display and the Augmented View function in the control display.
The X3 comes standard with features such as Front Collision Warning, Lane Departure Warning, Speed Limit Info, and a Driving Assistant package that includes Lane Change Warning and Speed Limit Assist.
Comprehensive ADAS suite
Onboard the X3 are features such as Front Collision Warning, Lane Departure Warning, Speed Limit Info, and a Driving Assistant package that includes Lane Change Warning and Speed Limit Assist.
The Parking Assistant, which is also a standard feature, includes Reversing Assistant and a Reversing Assist Camera.
Additionally, BMW offers Steering and Lane Control Assistant, Automatic Speed Limit Assist, and Route Speed Control when using Active Cruise Control with Stop & Go function.
The optional Parking Assistant Professional allows parking and general manoeuvres to be controlled from outside the car using a smartphone.
It’s hybrid or nothing
The X3 is available in mild hybrid (20 xDrive, 20d xDrive, and M50 xDrive) and PHEV (30e xDrive) guises. The 20 xDrive variant is powered by a 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo petrol engine (190 PS/310 Nm), while the 20d xDrive has a 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbodiesel engine (197 PS/400 Nm).
The X3 M50 xDrive features a 3.0-litre inline-six mill with mild hybrid technology generating 381 PS and 540 Nm, while the X3 30e xDrive comes with a 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo engine and an electric motor producing a total system output of 299 PS and 450 Nm.
Market launch
The new X3 will be assembled at BMW Group plants in Spartanburg, USA, and Rosslyn, South Africa. Its market launch will get underway in Europe and the USA in the fourth quarter of 2024, progressing across numerous other markets from January 2025.
Another 3S Nissan service center has been opened in Muar, Johor, and is operated by NM Supreme Sdn Bhd. This 8,000 square feet 3S center also features the Nissan Retail Concept for an enhanced post-sales experience for customers.
The Nissan Retail Concept aims to innovate Nissan dealerships and deliver world-class service standards to customers worldwide. It focuses on showcasing the Nissan brand value throughout the customer’s time at this flagship center, whether for test-driving the latest models or bringing in their cars for routine servicing.
Every touchpoint of the retail convenience facilities adhering to the NRC concept has been designed and refined to deliver enjoyment and satisfaction to customers.
The sales area of this 3S center can accommodate up to six vehicles. It also includes four service bays with a daily service capacity of 16 vehicles.
The service area, spanning over 4,000 square feet, is managed by a team of six trained and professional technicians.
Moreover, a comfortable customer waiting area has been designed and equipped with WiFi facilities, as well as complimentary food and beverages.
“The initiative to innovate Nissan dealerships in line with the NRC concept is to ensure that our customers receive world-class service at top-notch facilities aligned with the global Nissan brand experience,” said Khoo Cheng Pah, Chief Executive Officer of Edaran Tan Chong Motor.
The NM Supreme Sdn Bhd 3S center is located at No. 106, Jalan Meriam, 84000 Muar, Johor. It is open during operating hours as follows:
Showroom
Monday – Saturday: 9 am – 6 pm
Sunday: 10 am – 5 pm
Public holidays: Closed
Service center
Monday – Friday: 8:30 am – 5:30 pm
Saturday: 8:30 am – 1 pm
Sunday and public holidays: Closed
Fisker may not be widely recognized by the younger generation today, but the company is among the earliest electric vehicle (EV) manufacturers alongside Tesla.
However, recently, Fisker has filed for bankruptcy through Chapter 11 protection. This makes them the second EV company to do so after Lordstown Motors.
This news comes less than two weeks after Fisker issued a recall for nearly all 6,864 units of its Ocean SUV, related to an issue with the Motor Control Unit (MCU).
“Like other companies in the electric vehicle industry, we have faced various market and macroeconomic headwinds that have impacted our ability to operate efficiently,” Fisker wrote in a statement.
“After evaluating all options for our business, we determined that proceeding with a sale of our assets under Chapter 11 is the most viable path forward for the company.”
According to Fisker’s statement, the previously announced cessation of production operations will continue until further notice.
The company hopes to resume operations on a smaller scale, including paying employee salaries and benefits, maintaining some customer programs while selling assets, and restructuring debts.
Fisker was launched in Manhattan Beach, California in 2016 by automotive designer Henrik Fisker, who has since become the company’s chairman and CEO.
The Ministry of Investment, Trade, and Industry (MITI) has announced that, effective July 1, Bumiputera companies can begin applying to be appointed as Open AP companies to venture into vehicle importation and sales in Malaysia.
According to MITI, the initiative is aligned with its efforts to improve inclusiveness and transparency in the open AP application process. The applications are open to any Bumiputera company, including those that have never been involved in automotive activities.
The implementation of this policy is expected to attract more Bumiputera companies to participate in the automotive industry and increase competitiveness.
The main requirements include the company being a ‘sendirian berhad’, 100% Bumiputera-owned, having a minimum paid-up capital of RM1 million, and being in operation for at least two years.
Interested Bumiputera companies seeking to apply can refer to the guidelines, application form, and checklist provided at MITI’s website.
MITI further emphasized that the primary government objective is to strengthen the socio-economic agenda of the Bumiputera by providing opportunities for more competitive Bumiputera entrepreneurs to engage in the automotive sector.
The effective implementation of the Open AP policy since 1970 has successfully produced viable Bumiputera companies, not only in the segment of importing and selling vehicles but also in key activities along the supply chain such as after-sales services, insurance and logistics.
The policy is one of the policies related to Bumiputera that is still maintained until now and is important to achieve the target of 30% ownership of equity in the national economy as outlined under the New Economic Policy.
THE number of vehicle sales in Malaysia was recorded at 68,665 units in May 2024. This marks an 18 percent increase compared to the 57,991 units recorded in April, according to the Malaysia Automotive Association (MAA).
In year-on-year comparison, the total industry volume (TIV) last month saw a nine percent increase compared to May 2023, which recorded 63,158 units.
The association stated that the sales recorded in May 2024 were a result of a longer working month in May 2024 and steady performance by local manufacturers.
“From the beginning of the year until May 2024, TIV is eight percent higher at 328,901 units compared to the same period in 2023 with 303,575 units,” said MAA in a statement.
In May 2024, passenger vehicles recorded sales of 62,862 units, an 11 percent increase compared to the same month in 2023 with 56,448 units.
However, commercial vehicle sales decreased by 14 percent to 5,803 units in May 2024 compared to 6,710 units in the same month in 2023.
In terms of vehicle production, the latest statistics from MAA showed that 74,174 units were produced in May 2024, a 14 percent increase compared to 64,930 units in the same month last year.
During that month, passenger vehicle production reached 70,132 units, 16 percent higher compared to 60,391 units in the same month the previous year.
CHERY Auto Malaysia Sdn Bhd, has marked a significant milestone along its growth journey in Malaysia with the launch of the Chery Corporate Malaysia Factory in Shah Alam.
The facility will be the first in the ASEAN region to produce the Jaecoo J7 premium off-road SUV, which was previewed in Malaysia back in January.
The factory launch was commemorated with the first ever Jaecoo J7 All-Wheel Drive (AWD) rolling off its production line.
It was witnessed by Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry Malaysia, Tengku Datuk Seri Utama Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz, and China’s Minister of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT), Dr Jin Zhuanglong.
The Chery Corporate Malaysia Factory will produce the AWD dan 2WD variants of the J7. According to automaker, the set up of the factory has resulted in the creation of 500 new jobs with the potential to further grow in line with market demands.
The facility is also strategically located in the Shah Alam industrial zone, putting it in close proximity to local manufacturers who are critical to its supply chain.
Not only that, it is also geographically located close to Malaysia’s busiest port and the second largest in Southeast Asia, which primes the automaker’s readiness to export to the ASEAN region in the future.
Chery Automobile Co. Ltd Chairman, Yin Tongyue said, “Malaysia is a very important market for Chery. Our vision for the Malaysian market is to grow with our local partners and customers for the long term.”
Weighing in on the evolving Energy Efficient Vehicle (EEV) market, Yin added, “The positive response of customers in Malaysia towards the brand and our offerings by Chery and Jaecoo makes us very happy. With an electrified future on the horizon, Chery is also excited to support the growth of electric vehicles in Malaysia.”
Back in May, Chery teased the market with a taste of its future EV portfolio, previewing the Chery Tiggo 8 Pro PHEV, Jaecoo J7 PHEV and the fully-electric Jaecoo J6 at the Malaysia Autoshow 2024.
To date, Chery, as a whole, is responsible for the creation of over 1,000 jobs in Malaysia through its local operations. The brand also has a network of 100 sales and service centres across the nation.
Malaysia’s Leading Automotive News | ENGEAR ENGLISH