Category Archives: NEWS

Volvo ES90 officially unveiled, does 0-100 km/h in 4s, covers 700 km on single charge

Here it is, the sixth electric vehicle from Volvo, the ES90. Like the EX90 introduced nearly three years ago, the ES90 is a flagship model, meaning it is packed with only the best features and technologies.

But before we delve further into the topic, let’s take a closer look at the shape. Volvo has not clearly stated whether the ES90 is a sedan, fastback, or SUV but according to the automaker, it combines the best qualities of all three body types.

Design-wise, the front of the ES90 is quite similar to that of the EX90 and EX30, featuring Thor’s hammer-shaped headlights, the Iron Mark logo right in the centre, and a small intake at the bottom of the bumper.

At the back, you will see C-shaped lights that are quite similar to the tail lights of the other two EX models. More importantly though, the ES90 does come a conventional boot lid like a sedan. Instead, it gets a tailgate hatch that offers a wider opening.

The hatch provides access to a boot space of 424 litres, or 733 litres if the rear seats are fully folded down. If you need more space, there’s a 22-litre frunk that can accommodate charging cables.

As for the interior, it comes as no surprise that the ES90 follows in the footsteps of the EX90 with its minimalist concept. The centrepiece here is a 14.5-inch screen with Volvo’s new-gen infotainment system with Google built-in that allows the driver to use Maps, Assistant, and various other apps available through Google Play.

Additionally, the car also comes with a nine-inch digital driver display, a head-up display, an ambient lighting system with six themes, a four-zone climate control system, and a panoramic roof with electrochromic functionality.

For the audio system, there are three levels available, including the top-of-the-line Bowers & Wilkins system with 25 speakers (including those in the headrests and ceiling). Exclusive to this system is a special mode replicating the sounds of London’s legendary Abbey Road Studios.

The ES90 is built on the SPA2 platform and is the first Volvo car to use an 800V architecture. There are three powertrain options available, namely Single Motor, Twin Motor, and Twin Motor Performance.

As the name suggests, the Single Motor comes with a single electric motor on the rear axle. It generates a healthy 333 PS (245 kW) and 480 Nm, enabling it to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 6.9 seconds.

The Twin Motor variant has a two-motor setup that generates 177 PS (130 kW) and 265 Nm at the front axle and 272 PS (200 kW) and 405 Nm at the rear axle. With a total system output of 449 PS and 670 Nm, the car requires 5.5 seconds to reach a speed of 100 km/h.

The Twin Motor Performance also features a pair of electric motors but tuned to produce 299 PS (220 kW) and 390 Nm at the front axle and 381 PS (280 kW) and 480 Nm at the rear axle. This gives it a total output of 680 PS and 870 Nm, which reduces the century sprint to a scant 4.0 seconds.

As for the battery, the Single Motor version comes with a 92 kWh battery that provides a driving range of 650 km based on the WLTP cycle. The Twin Motor and Twin Motor Performance versions have a range of 700 km on a single full charge, thanks to a 106 kWh battery.

The Single Motor supports fast charging up to 300 kW, while the Twin Motor and Twin Motor Performance can handle a bit more power at 350 kW. According to Volvo, the charging time from 10% to 80% for all three versions is the same – 20 minutes.

BYD Atto 3 facelift gets God’s Eye intelligent driving system and more

BYD has introduced a facelifted version of the Atto 3 in China, with prices starting from 115,800 yuan (RM70,830), which is 1,000 yuan (RM610) less than the 2024 model.

Known as the Yuan Plus in its home country, this electric crossover showcases a fresher appearance with a new fascia and several upgraded features.

The dimensions of the Atto 3 remain unchanged but the facelifted model features larger trapezoidal air intakes, smoked headlights, black D-pillars, and a new roof spoiler with dual brake lights.

The interior presents a more relaxed and mature atmosphere compared to before, with two rather dull colour choices – beige and grey. The ‘guitar strings’ on the door cards are still there, but they now come in black.

Additionally, the Atto 3 now features a new column gear shifter, an 8.8-inch digital instrument panel, a 12-inch head-up display, a driver monitoring camera on the A-pillar, as well as a refrigerator.

Along with a new steering wheel, the centre console of the Atto 3 has been redesigned to make room for two cup holders, several physical buttons, and a 50 W wireless charger.

The safety features and driver assistance systems of the Atto 3 have been enhanced through the use of the smart driving system God’s Eye C. It employs three cameras located at the bottom of the windscreen to enable the high-speed Navigation On Autopilot (NOA) function.

According to CarNewsChina, the system will be updated to include NOA functionality for urban driving in the future.

There are no changes to the powertrain, meaning the Atto 3 retains a single electric motor on the front axle that produces 204 PS (150 kW) and 310 Nm of torque.

In China, the LFP battery pack is available in a 49.9 kWh version with a range of 430 km, and a 60.5 kWh version that offers a range of up to 510 km. Do note that these figures are based on the rather unrealistic CLTC testing cycle.

JAC T9 launched in Malaysia with choice of turbodiesel or EV, starting from RM120k

Following its unveiling last October, the JAC T9 mid-size pickup truck has finally been launched in the Malaysian market by Evolvelectric Motors, the official distributor for JAC Motors vehicles.

As previously reported, the T9 is available in two variants, namely the turbodiesel-powered T9 Grand-ES and the T9 Grand-BEV, which as its name suggests, is the electric version.

The selling price starts from RM119,888 for the T9 Grand-ES, while the T9 Grand-BEV is priced at RM199,888. The former comes with a five-year unlimited mileage warranty, whereas the latter gets a six-year warranty with a mileage cap of 200,000 km.

The T9 Grand-ES features a 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbodiesel engine that delivers 167 hp at 3,600 rpm and 410 Nm of torque from 1,500 to 2,500 rpm. Power is transmitted to the wheels through a four-wheel drive (4WD) system and a ZF eight-speed automatic transmission.

Conversely, the T9 Grand-BEV boasts a two-motor setup, generating 94 hp/176 Nm at the front axle and 215 hp/342 Nm at the rear axle, resulting in a combined torque of 516 Nm.

Both electric motors get their electric juice from an 88 kWh LFP battery made by CATL, promising a range of 340 km based on the WLTP cycle.

The T9 supports AC charging at 11 kW, requiring 6 hours and 50 minutes to charge the battery from 15% to full. Alternatively, owners can utilise rapid DC charging at 88 kW, allowing the battery to recover from 30% to 80% in 35 minutes.

Regardless of the variant chosen, the T9 measures 5,330 mm in length, 1,965 mm in width, 1,920 mm in height, and has a wheelbase of 3,110 mm.

It is proper pickup truck, so you’re getting a ground clearance of 210 mm, an approach angle of 27 degrees, a departure angle of 23 degrees, and a wading depth capability of 800 mm — 100 mm deeper than the Hilux Rogue.

Equipment-wise, the T9 comes with front and rear LED lights, LED DRL lights, side steps, a sports bar at the rear, and roof rails.

Inside, you’ll find a seven-inch digital instrument cluster, a central 10.4-inch screen with support for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, ambient lighting, wireless charging, and six speakers.

Additional features include six-way adjustable front seats, air conditioning vents for the second row, extra USB ports, and a power socket.

The safety system comprises seven airbags, a 360-degree camera, tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS), autonomous emergency braking (AEB), lane departure warning (LDW), lane-keeping assistance (LKS), adaptive cruise control (ACC), and a traffic sign recognition system (TSRS).

Volkswagen ID.Every1 is brand’s most affordable EV at just RM96k

Volkswagen has confirmed its entry into the entry-level EV segment with the introduction of the ID.Every1, the smallest model in its all-electric ID lineup.

Although the model is still at the concept concept stage, it could hit the market sooner than you think. Volkswagen has announced that the production version will be launched in 2027, with a starting price of around €20,000 (RM95,555).

In addition to the ID.Every1, the company has revealed plans to introduce the ID.2all a year prior, carrying an estimated price tag of around €25,000 (RM119,461).

Both models are part of Volkswagen’s Electric Urban Car lineup, utilising the MEB modular electric drive platform with front-wheel drive.

The ID.Every1 will take over the baton from the e-up!, which ceased production in 2023. In terms of size, it is 280 mm longer than its predecessor, measuring 3,880 mm in length. The height stands at 1,490 mm, while the width reaches 1,816 mm.

It’s worth noting that the design you see is not the final version destined for production. Expect some changes in various areas, such as the side mirrors, door handles, and wheels.

While it may appear teeny, the car is spacious enough to comfortably seat four passengers, with a boot capacity of 305 litres.

The cabin design looks futuristic, but with a large infotainment screen, a small driver display, and a low centre console, it certainly looks like many other EVs on the market today.

According to Volkswagen, the ID.Every1 will be the first model within the Volkswagen Group to feature a new software architecture that enables the vehicle to receive updates and upgrades throughout its entire life cycle.

Powering the ID.Every1 will be a newly developed electric motor generating 95 PS (70 kW), allowing the compact EV to achieve a top speed of 130 km/h.

While the battery capacity has yet to be disclosed, Volkswagen claims that this car can cover at least 250 km on a single charge.

Cyclone RE600, 58 hp/55 Nm, modern retro image, priced at RM25,888

MForce Bike Holdings is set to launch a modern retro scrambler, the RE600, complementing the models mentioned in the previous article (RT3E, RX650 & RA600).

Like the RA600 model, the RE600 also gets a 550.4 cc parallel-twin engine producing 58 hp at 8,500 rpm and 55 Nm of torque at 6,500 rpm.

This motorcycle is capable of reaching a top speed of 170 km/h.

The RE600’s suspension system consists of upside-down (USD) front forks followed by a single shock absorber at the rear.

Stopping power is provided by twin brake rotors at the front and a single brake rotor at the rear, assisted by ABS and traction control system (TCS).

The retro image of this motorcycle is contributed by a round LED front lighting unit, slim LED rear light, LED turn signals, and a small windscreen.

All important information can be read via the full-color TFT display screen.

Other features include 17-inch rims, a 20-liter fuel tank, and a seat height of 800 mm.

The selling price of the Cyclone RE600 is around RM25,888 when it is launched in the middle of the year.

Cyclone RA600 cruiser showcased, priced at RM25,888

The Cyclone brand’s offerings for the Malaysian market are further enhanced this year with the RA600 cruiser, carrying a price tag of RM25,888.

The RA600 is powered by a liquid-cooled, 550.4 cc parallel-twin engine that produces 58 hp at 8,500 rpm and 55 Nm of torque at 6,500 rpm.

That power is channeled to the rear wheel through a belt drive system.

The suspension setup of this motorcycle consists of telescopic forks at the front and a single shock absorber at the rear.

Featuring an aggressive appearance, this cruiser comes with front and rear LED lighting systems, a twin exhaust system, exposed handlebars, and a fairly simple round LCD digital screen panel.

Other features include 16-inch rims, mirrors at the handlebar ends, a 14.5-liter fuel tank, and a seat height of 725 mm.

MForce has announced that the selling price of the RA600 will be around RM25,888 when it is launched by the middle of this year.

Cyclone RX650 adventure touring bike set to enter Malaysia, estimated price below RM30k

In addition to the Cyclone RT3E, MForce also showcased the 650cc Cyclone RX650 adventure touring motorcycle, which is slated for the Malaysian market.

The RX650 is powered by a liquid-cooled, 650cc parallel-twin engine that produces 70 hp at 8,500 rpm and 62 Nm of torque at 7,000 rpm.

The RX650 features inverted telescopic (USD) front forks and a single rear shock absorber.

The braking system includes dual front rotors and a single rear rotor, supported by ABS and traction control (TCS).

Additionally, the RX650 is equipped with features such as LED lighting, cornering ABS, a quickshifter, cruise control, blind-spot detection radar, and front and rear ride-recording camera systems.

Other features include a 20-liter fuel tank, 17-inch rims, an 820 mm seat height, an adjustable windscreen, and a full-color TFT display screen.

It is understood that the selling price of the Cyclone RX650 will start below RM30,000 when the model officially enters the Malaysian market.

MForce unveils Cyclone RT3E classic scooter, priced at RM12,888

Mforce Bike Holdings Sdn Bhd, during a visit to Zoshen factory  with Malaysian media representatives, showcased several upcoming Cyclone motorcycle models.

Among these models was the Cyclone RT3E, a scooter that evokes a classic Vespa-like aesthetic.

In terms of power, the RT3E is equipped with a 247cc single-cylinder engine that produces 26.15 hp at 8,500 rpm and 24.5 Nm of torque at 6,500 rpm.

The scooter features front and rear disc brakes, supported by ABS and traction control (TCS).

Other features include a 10-liter fuel tank, a seat height of 750 mm, a digital instrument panel, LED lighting, a windscreen, left and right crash bars, a front rack, and classic whitewall tires.

The Cyclone RT3E will be priced at RM12,888 for the Malaysian market.

XPeng X9 launched in Malaysia – 3 variants, from RM270k

Bermaz Xpeng Sdn Bhd, the official distributor of the Xpeng brand in Malaysia, has launched its second model, the X9.

Dubbed the “Ultra Smart Large Seven-seater,” the electric MPV is set to lock horns with the likes of the Zeekr 009 and Denza D9.

Order books for the X9 are now open, with prices and variants as follows:

  • X9 Standard Range 2WD Pro – RM269,888
  • X9 Long Range 2WD Pro – RM287,888
  • X9 Long Range 2WD Pro Plus – RM299,888

Bermaz offers a manufacturer’s warranty of five years/120,000 km, along with a complimentary service package for five years/100,000 km. Additionally, a high-voltage battery warranty is provided for eight years/160,000 km.

All three variants come equipped with a single electric motor on the front axle, producing 315 hp and 450 Nm of torque. The acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h takes just 7.7 seconds, and the maximum speed can reach 200 km/h.

Interestingly, the X9 is available with two types of batteries. The Standard Range 2WD Pro is equipped with an LFP 84.5 kWh battery that offers a WLTP range of 500 km, while the Long Range variants feature an NMC 101.5 kWh battery, providing a range of 590 km.

The X9 supports fast DC charging with a capacity of up to 317 kW, allowing the battery to be charged from 10% to 80% in just 20 minutes.

According to Xpeng, the X9 is the world’s first BEV 7-seater MPV to feature a front and rear-integrated die-cast aluminum body structure, enhancing safety and durability.

Additionally, the model is equipped with an active rear wheel steering system paired with dual-chamber air suspension, providing it with a turning radius of 5.4 metres.

Stepping inside, you will be greeted by starship-inspired cockpit. The Standard Range 2WD Pro and Long Range 2WD Pro are fitted with leatherette upholstery, while the Long Range 2WD Pro Plus gets Zero Gravity seats covered in Nappa leather.

The standout feature here is the 21.3-inch infotainment screen, complemented by the X-Opera audio system with 23 speakers that delivers concert-quality audio, along with an advanced air purification system.

The X9 comes with a seven-seat configuration but can be converted to a four-seat layout at the press of a button, which in turn will fold down the third-row seats, expanding the boot capacity from 755 litres to 2,554 litres.

For added comfort, features such as third-row seat adjustment, massage functions, and a smart fridge are also included.

In terms of safety, the X9 is equipped with the XPilot 2.5 system, which encompasses features like Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with Stop & Go, Lane Centreing Control (LCC), Adaptive Turning Cruise (ATC), Intelligent Speed Limit Assist (SAS), and Active Lane Change (ALC).

Parking is made easier with the Enhanced Auto Parking Assist (EAP 2.0), Auto Exit Parking Assist (AEP), and Straight Summon, which can be accessed via the XPeng mobile app.

Other safety highlights include six airbags, Forward Collision Warning (FCW), Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB), Blind-Spot Detection (BSD), Lane Keeping Assist (LKA), and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert (RCTA).

The X9 is fully imported (CBU) from China and is available in three exterior colours, namely Nebula White, Crescent Silver, and Dark Night Black. As for the cabin, there are two shades to choose from – Starry Night Black and Moon Shadow Brown.

Merdeka 118 now directly accessible via Belfield Tunnel

Visitors to Merdeka 118 now have a smoother, more efficient route into the precinct with the official opening of the Belfield Tunnel.

The infrastructure project by PNB Merdeka Ventures Sdn Berhad (PMVSB), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Permodalan Nasional Berhad (PNB), will provide an additional access route to the world’s second tallest tower, easing congestion on key city roads.

Spanning just over one kilometer, the Belfield Tunnel is Malaysia’s second two-storey tunnel, designed exclusively for vehicles traveling to and from Merdeka 118. It provides an alternative entry and exit point, improving traffic flow and reducing congestion in the city centre.

Chief Executive Officer of PMVSB, Dato’ Tengku Ab. Aziz Tengku Mahmud said, “Our goal is to provide a seamless and stress-free journey into the city, ensuring easier access for everyone.”

“With ample parking for up to 8,000 cars, we look forward to welcoming people from all walks of life, from business professionals to shoppers and tourists to experience all that Merdeka 118 has to offer once we are fully open,” he added.

The Belfield Tunnel can be accessed via two entry points, namely Jalan Syed Putra and Jalan Damansara, leading vehicles directly into basement car park 4 of Menara Merdeka 118 . For departures, vehicles exit from basement car park 5 through Jalan Syed Putra or Jalan Istana.

This strategically located entry facility aims to reduce congestion and improve traffic flow around the Merdeka 118 precinct, including Jalan Hang Jebat, Jalan Hang Tuah, and Jalan Maharajalela.

According to PMVSB, the tunnel will also provide access to Malaysia’s only Park Hyatt hotel, as well as to 118 Mall, which are set to open in Q2 2025 and Q2 2026, respectively.

Toyota Land Cruiser was a favorite among thieves in Japan last year

We’re accustomed to hearing about Toyota’s success, particularly regarding sales performance and customer reliability.

However, in Japan, Toyota reportedly topped the charts for the most stolen vehicles throughout 2024, dominating the top ten spots!

According to data from the Japan General Insurance Association, the Toyota Land Cruiser (including the Prado model) has topped the list for the fourth consecutive year.

In 2024, there were 688 reported Land Cruiser thefts, accounting for 27.5 percent of every 100 vehicles stolen.

This means more than one in four vehicles stolen were Land Cruiser models.

The Alphard minivan took second place with 289 cases, followed by the Toyota Prius (235) in third. The Lexus LX ranked fourth (109), the Lexus RX fifth (89), Toyota Crown (62), Toyota Hiace (43), Toyota Vellfire (38), Lexus LS (34), and finally, the Toyota Voxy (21).

According to the data, Land Cruiser thefts in 2024 increased significantly compared to 2023 (383 cases), contributing to a total of 2,499 theft cases overall.

This Suzuki Jimny 6×4 can be a unique alternative to the Mercedes-AMG G63 6×6

This isn’t a computer-generated image; it’s a real, six-wheeled Suzuki Jimny project available for purchase as a unique addition to a personal collection.

The Suzuki Jimny 6×4 started as a three-door 2019 Jimny, imported directly from Japan.

The idea to create an alternative to the AMG G63 6×6 came about after the original owner saw a computer-generated image online.

Mocho Fabrication, a small shop in Broadway, England, was tasked with transforming the three-door Jimny into a head-turning, six-wheeled head turner.

Using original components from Suzuki, the builders successfully added custom panels to the rear, including a third axle and a pair of fender flares to match the original Jimny styling.

The entire exterior of this Jimny 6×4 is coated in Nardo Grey.

Inside, the workshop fitted a two-tone black/light gray trim to the seats and door panels, along with a Kenwood infotainment system.

According to the eBay listing, this Jimny 6×4 has only 11,075 km on the odometer, making it appear as pristine as if it had just left the showroom.

Unfortunately, this formidable-looking Jimny still relies on a naturally aspirated (NA) 1.5-liter engine producing 103 hp and 134 Nm of torque.

It retains the original four-wheel drive (4WD) system, paired with an automatic gearbox.

However, the owner plans to offer a Garrett turbo upgrade kit, including a manifold and intercooler, which could increase horsepower to 170 hp and 270 Nm.

Looking for an SUV alternative to the AMG G63 6×6?

The asking price starts from £45,000 (RM213,211). It’s a significantly cheaper option if you want a very stylish 6×6 SUV on the road.

GWM Malaysia delivers its 500th Tank 300

GWM Malaysia has announced that it has delivered its 500th Tank 300 to a customer recently.

According to the company, the milestone is a testament to the soaring popularity of the Tank 300 in Malaysia, where it has emerged as the top choice for off-road enthusiasts.

“We are incredibly proud to see the GWM Tank 300 making such an impact in Malaysia, mirroring its success in China,” said Cui Anqi, Managing Director of GWM Malaysia.

“This achievement highlights the trust and enthusiasm Malaysians have for our brand. We look forward to building on this momentum with our upcoming Tank lineup,” he added.

To mark the occasion, GWM Malaysia is offering a lifetime engine and transmission warranty for all first-hand GWM Tank 300 owners.

The company is also rolling out four exciting promotions for new and prospective Tank 300 owners:

  • Test Drive and Win: Take the Tank 300 for a test drive and stand a chance to win a travel voucher worth RM888.
  • Buy and Win: Drive home your very own Tank 300 and be in with a chance to win a travel voucher worth RM8,888.
  • Complimentary Service Package: Purchase Tank 300 and receive a 5-year free service package.
  • GWM Iron Cavalry Modification Kit Giveaway: Purchase the Tank 300 between March 1 and May 31, 2025 for a shot at winning an exclusive GWM Iron Cavalry modification kit. For this promotion, only one lucky winner will be selected.

Voge DS900X hits the Malaysian market, price RM49,998

MForce Bike Holdings Sdn Bhd has launched the Voge DS900X adventure motorcycle for the local market, carrying a price tag of RM49,998 (excluding road tax and insurance).

In terms of specifications, the Voge DS900X is powered by a 895 cc twin-cylinder engine that delivers 93.9 hp at 8,520 rpm and a torque of 95 Nm at 6,000 rpm.

There are four riding modes: Rain, Road, Sport, and Enduro, along with a standard quickshifter feature.

The suspension system consists of an inverted telescopic fork at the front, followed by a single shock absorber and a unique aluminum swingarm.

For stopping power, the motorcycle is equipped with Brembo brakes featuring dual 305 mm rotors at the front and a single 265 mm rotor at the rear, complemented by a two-channel ABS system.

Other features include a 17-liter fuel tank, a seat height of 835 mm, LED lighting units including auxiliary lights, an adjustable windscreen, and a smart key system.

All information can be displayed on a seven-inch color TFT screen.

For convenience and comfort during rides, this machine comes with USB-A and USB-C charging ports, a 12V socket, an adjustable windscreen, heated handlebars, a heated seat, a 45-liter top storage box, and two 35-liter side panniers.

Rider safety has also been prioritized with the inclusion of crash bars, handlebar protectors, a tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS), cruise control, and a front-facing ride recording camera.

Voge Malaysia offers an unlimited mileage warranty for a period of two years with every purchase of the DS900X.

Volvo EX90, XC90 facelift set to launch soon

Volvo Car Malaysia has announced that two models from the 90 series SUV lineup will be arriving soon: the electric SUV EX90 and the plug-in hybrid SUV XC90.

Currently, Volvo Malaysia has not announced the launch dates for either model; however, further information will be disseminated through the official website.

 

Volvo EX90

First unveiled in 2022, the Volvo EX90 is designed to be the safest vehicle ever produced by Volvo.

This seven-seater electric SUV is equipped with active safety technology aimed at reducing and preventing accidents.

It is also the first Volvo vehicle to use LIDAR technology, the first model to employ advanced computing technology, and the first equipped with hardware for full autonomous driving.

Malaysia is among the first Asia-Pacific markets to receive the Volvo EX90, following its introduction in Thailand.

 

Volvo XC90

This will be the second facelift of the Volvo XC90, introduced in 2024, featuring several cosmetic changes primarily focused on the front fascia and the infotainment system within the cabin.

It’s worth noting that the Volvo XC90 PHEV was the first plug-in hybrid vehicle manufactured in Malaysia, launched in 2016.

According to Volvo Malaysia, both flagship models offer outstanding driving range, safety, and practicality for family use.

The Volvo EX90 will join Volvo’s electric vehicle lineup, which currently includes the Volvo EX30, Volvo XC40 Recharge Pure Electric, and the Volvo C40 Recharge Pure Electric.

Interested customers can find more information on the website: https://www.volvocars.com/my/ex90-electric.

Johor Premium Outlets set to be region’s largest fast-charging EV hub

Genting Simon Sdn Bhd has announced plans to install 500 EV chargers at Johor Premium Outlets, making it the largest fast-charging EV hub in Southeast Asia.

The company says the project addresses the rising demand for EV infrastructure while advancing technological solutions for sustainable mobility.

When fully operational, the EV chargers at Johor Premium Outlets will include Direct Current (DC) chargers with outputs ranging from 280 kW to 1 MW, making it the first publicly accessible 1 MW charger in the region.

The charging infrastructure will be developed via a strategic partnership with Yinson Greentech’s chargEV and DC Handal as service providers.

It will be able to accommodate a diverse range of vehicles, ensuring compatibility with future advancements in EV technology, and helping the transition to a fully electric future.

These plans also include the electrification of the Johor Premium Outlets fleet of shuttle buses. An EV bus hub will be established to connect Johor Premium Outlets directly with Johor Bahru checkpoints and other key public transport hubs, making sustainable travel more convenient for both local and international visitors.

Additionally, there will be hourly and daily EV car rentals via a strategic partnership with GoCar and drivEV offering visitors greater freedom of travel and access to Johor Premium Outlets.

Proton eMAS 7 deliveries hit 1,000 units in less than three months

Pro-Net has announced that it has delivered 1,000 units of the Proton eMAS 7 to date. The electric vehicle was officially launched on 16 December 2024.

The subsidiary of Proton stated that the overwhelming response to the eMAS 7 is a testament to the trust Malaysians have placed in the national automaker’s vision for sustainable mobility.

“The success of the eMAS 7 is a reflection of our commitment to providing a compelling EV proposition that aligns with the needs of Malaysian consumers.

“Our goal is not just to sell cars but to foster a complete ecosystem that ensures a seamless and confident transition to electric mobility,” said Zhang Qiang, Chief Executive Officer of Pro-Net.

The company says survey results indicate that 58% of buyers recognize the eMAS 7 as a value-for-money proposition, while 51% appreciate its spaciousness and practicality.

Additionally, 38% were drawn to its advanced safety features, including Level 2 ADAS and semi-autonomous driving capabilities, and 39% cited the Live Integrated Charging Map as a key factor in their decision-making process.

According to Pro-Net, they have secured over 4,500 bookings for the EV. The company is confident of reaching 6,000 bookings soon, thanks in part to the extension of the Power Package that provides exclusive pricing to early adopters.

The company added that the eMAS 7 has captured 25% share of the local EV market. As a refresher, it has also emerged as the best-selling EV in Malaysia for January 2025.

800 units of Denza D9 sold within a week of launch

BYD Malaysia has announced that it has managed to sell 800 units of the Denza D9 within just one week of its launch.

The D9 was launched on our shores on February 20 at a price of RM259,000 for the Advanced FWD variant and RM309,000 for the Premium AWD variant.

It comes with a warranty of up to eight years or 160,000 km for the battery (with a State of Health over 70%), as well as a warranty of up to eight years or 150,000 km for the drive motor and its controller. A vehicle warranty of up to six years or 150,000 km is also included.

The Advanced FWD variant is powered by a single electric motor positioned at the front axle, generating 308 hp and 360 Nm, enabling it to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 9.5 seconds.

The Premium AWD variant, which features two electric motors, boasts a higher output of 369 hp and 470 Nm, reducing the 0-100 km/h acceleration time to just 6.9 seconds.

Both variants utilise a 103 kWh Blade LFP battery, offering a WLTP range of up to 600 km for the Advanced FWD and 580 km for the Premium AWD.

Honda Malaysia sets 83,000 unit sales target for 2025

Honda Malaysia said it aims to sell 83,000 vehicles in 2025 and capture a market share of 10.6%.

According to the company, this year’s target, which surpasses last year’s sales of 81,600 units by 1,400 units, is driven by the launch of three new models, including the Civic facelift in January.

Honda Malaysia stated that with continued strong demand for its existing lineup, it is confident of maintaining its leading position in the non-national passenger vehicle segment for the 12th consecutive year.

The company is confident that internal combustion engine and e:HEV technologies will stay relevant in the market, benefitting from infrastructure readiness, consumer preferences and technological advancements.

Last year, e:HEV models received significant feedback from the market, accounting for nearly 30% of total hybrid vehicle sales in Malaysia.

In line with its business direction for 2025, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Honda Malaysia Hironobu Yoshimura said that the company will launch its first battery electric vehicle (BEV), the e:N1.

“This model exemplifies Honda’s advanced BEV features, while also introducing the company’s initial EV technology to the Malaysian market,” he said.

He added that the launch of the e:N1 will pave the way for Honda Malaysia’s three-year plan to introduce three new BEV models to the Malaysian market by 2027.

In addition to enhancing its product offerings, Honda Malaysia indicated that it will improve its sales and after-sales services. The company currently operates 104 distribution centres nationwide.

After 18 years, Nissan finally ends GT-R sales in Japan

At the end of February 2025, Nissan Japan announced that it will terminate sales of the GT-R model (R35 generation) after almost two decades on the market.

In a statement posted on its official website, Nissan said, “We have received many orders for the Nissan GT-R and have now finished accepting orders for the planned production quantity. We would like to express our sincere gratitude to all our customers for their support since its release in 2007.”

The Nissan GT-R R35 has long ceased to be offered in several key markets due to compliance issues, such as safety, noise, emissions, and more.

Markets such as Australia and New Zealand stopped selling the GT-R in October 2021, while Europe and the UK followed suit in March 2022.

The Nissan GT-R was first unveiled at the Tokyo Motor Show in 2007, and since then, it has undergone several upgrades and facelifts.

It is powered by a 3.8-liter V6 engine (VR38DETT) with an initial power output of 473 hp, increasing to 565 hp for the 2023 facelift model, while the Nismo version boosts that figure to 600 hp.

What will happen to the next generation of the Nissan GT-R? Will it continue the legacy left by the previous GT-R?

Or will it transform into what is envisioned through the Hyper Force Concept model?