The Lynk & Co 900 is a luxury SUV with a six-seat configuration that is set to enter the Chinese market this March.
Built on the SPA Evo platform, the Lynk & Co 900 measures 5,240 mm in length, 1,999 mm in width, and 1,810 mm in height, with a wheelbase exceeding three meters (3,160 mm).
On the exterior, this SUV features design elements commonly found in Lynk & Co models (as well as Zeekr).
For instance, it boasts sharp LED daytime running lights, followed by low-mounted headlights positioned in the bumper.
From a side view, the Lynk & Co 900 incorporates design elements inspired by the Range Rover, while the rear presents a more streamlined lighting unit.
Three plug-in hybrid (PHEV) powertrain options are available for buyers.
The base variant of the Lynk & Co 900 comes with a 1.5-liter turbo engine paired with two electric motors (215 hp front/308 hp rear), producing a total power output of 710 hp.
There is also a 2.0-liter turbo engine option, with the first version paired with a 165 hp electric motor in the front, followed by a 308 hp electric motor at the rear axle, bringing the total power output to 724 hp.
The most powerful version is equipped with three electric motors, including a 165 hp front motor and a pair of 215 hp rear motors, generating a staggering 845 hp!
This top variant is said to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just four seconds.
The interior of the Lynk & Co 900 features a rather unique dashboard layout.
For the driver, there is a relatively small 12.66-inch digital cluster screen, while front passengers enjoy a large 30-inch floating display with a 6K resolution.
Additionally, it includes two wireless charging slots, ambient lighting, and a floating armrest on the door panel.
For second-row passengers, a small screen is provided on the center console, and a 30-inch 6K display that can be concealed in the roof lining.
As of now, the retail price for the Lynk & Co 900 SUV has not yet been announced.
Radar Auto, another brand under the Geely umbrella, has launched an electric pickup truck known as the King Kong in China.
Replacing the previous model, the RD6, the Radar King Kong is offered with a single electric motor driving the rear axle and a dual electric motor configuration for four-wheel drive (4WD).
The single motor version delivers 245 PS and 309 Nm, enabling it to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 8.1 seconds. It is available with LFP battery capacities of 42 kWh, 55 kWh, 73 kWh, and 86 kWh, with a CLTC range from 310 km to 605 km.
Meanwhile, the dual electric motor version packs 381 PS and 485 Nm, achieving a 0 to 100 km/h acceleration in 5.7 seconds. There are three battery pack options: 55 kWh, 73 kWh, and 86 kWh, providing ranges between 330 km and 520 km.
In addition to its various electric motor configurations and battery pack options, the King Kong demonstrates versatility by offering both standard and long wheelbase versions.
The standard wheelbase version measures 5,260 mm in length, 1,900 mm in width, and 1,865 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 3,120 mm. The long wheelbase version, on the other hand, measures 5,500 mm in length and has a wheelbase of 3,310 mm.
In terms of design, the King Kong appears quite similar to the RD6, while still retaining the exterior and interior styling inspired by the Geely Haoyue, which is the sibling of the Proton X90.
In China, the King Kong is available in seven trim levels: four for the single motor version and three for the 4WD version.
The single motor version is priced between 99,800 and 149,800 yuan (approximately RM60,982 to RM91,525), while the 4WD version ranges from 119,800 to 159,800 yuan (around RM73,196 to RM97,635).
In comparison, the price of the previous RD6 started from 136,800 to 209,800 yuan (approximately RM83,590 to RM128,196).
DRB-HICOM Berhad and Zhejiang Geely Holding Group have signed two agreements to develop the Automotive Hi-Tech Valley (AHTV) in Tanjong Malim, Perak, into a global hub for Next Generation Vehicles (NxGV) and Energy Efficient Vehicles (EEV).
The first agreement signed with the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA), will focus on cooperation to attract investments specifically for the development of AHTV, with the aim of fostering growth, capabilities, and competitiveness in the national automotive industry.
The key focus of this cooperation is to encourage the transformation of the local automotive industry and Industry 4.0 to help Malaysia become a leading country for EEVs in ASEAN.
It also aims to transform AHTV into a global automotive hub, focusing on the production of NxGVs, smart manufacturing of high-tech automotive components, and an export base for a comprehensive global supply chain for vehicles and spare parts.
The second agreement made with the Malaysia Automotive, Robotics and IoT Institute (MARii), will concentrate on collaboration in research and development (R&D) and talent development for AHTV.
The scope of cooperation includes building testing and R&D centers for NxGVs, as well as establishing a National Testing and Homologation Centre specifically for EEV testing and autonomous driving.
Additionally, the parties involved have agreed to develop local expertise in critical components such as electric motors, battery management systems, and power distribution units with assistance from Geely Holding.
In the area of talent development, the collaboration will also include developing training programs focusing on NxGV and smart manufacturing, R&D, smart equipment, and production and marketing services supported by partnerships with institutions in China and Malaysia.
This includes establishing national standards for automotive SKM and TVET certification, implementing an automotive apprenticeship program, creating educational modules for high school through university levels, and conducting certification programs for digitalization and Industry 4.0 skills in manufacturing and supply chains.
Chinese automotive giant Geely is reportedly set to consolidate its Lynk & Co brand and Zeekr, according to a report from the Economic Daily.
This consolidation move is aimed at allowing Geely to focus its resources on the rapidly growing new energy vehicle (NEV) market, while also reducing internal competition.
The Lynk & Co brand was established by Geely and Volvo as a premium brand targeted at younger consumers.
It was once one of the most successful Chinese car brands, reaching sales of one million units within six years.
Unfortunately, Lynk & Co currently offers only one battery electric vehicle (BEV), the Z10, which was just launched this year, whereas Zeekr has already introduced six electric vehicle (EV) models since 2021.
As of November 2024, Zeekr will hold a 51 percent stake in Lynk & Co, while the remaining shares will be held by Geely Auto.
In the coming weeks, Geely is set to launch its latest SUV model in the Galaxy series, the Galaxy Starship 7.
This SUV is built on the new Global Energy Architecture (GEA) platform that supports the super electric hybrid “Thor” technology, referring to the plug-in hybrid (PHEV) powertrain configuration.
The mentioned Thor system consists of a 1.5-liter engine and a single electric motor that drives the front wheels, paired with a battery pack sourced from SVOLT.
According to Geely, there are two battery pack capacity options available, namely a 19.09 kWh that can offer an electric range of up to 101 km, or a 28.94 kWh with a zero-emission range of 150 km.
In terms of dimensions, the Geely Galaxy Starship 7 measures 4,740 mm in length, 1,905 mm in width, 1,685 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,755 mm.
This makes the Galaxy Starship 7 almost as large as SUV models like the BMW X3 and Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class.
Despite its somewhat futuristic name, the design of the Geely Galaxy Starship 7 appears quite conventional, reminiscent of the Porsche Macan/Cayenne models, especially at the rear.
As for the cabin space, the Galaxy Starship 7 features a large central infotainment screen, followed by a smaller digital cluster screen behind the two-spoke steering wheel.
The central console houses a wireless device charging slot, main control buttons, cupholders, and storage space at the bottom complete with additional USB slots.
More information is expected to be revealed closer to the official launch later this year. The most important question – will this be rebranded into a Proton car?
Last week, the Proton Centre of Excellence (COE) served as the final destination for Geely’s Galaxy E5 world tour, which kicked off in China.
Despite being dubbed a ‘world tour’, the convoy, consisting of several left-hand drive Galaxy E5 units, actually traversed just three Southeast Asian countries: Laos, Thailand, and Malaysia.
Nevertheless, the 3,700 km journey was deemed sufficient to showcase the Galaxy E5’s capabilities and durability in real-world conditions.
According to a representative from Geely, the convoy successfully completed the journey without issues, with each unit arriving at the COE in good condition, despite having to face floods in Laos caused by Typhoon Yagi.
Taking advantage of the cars being here, Proton invited media representatives to test drive the Proton e.MAS 7 twin on its famed test track at the COE. Additionally, select media personnel were also given the opportunity to drive the EV on public roads for a more realistic driving experience.
From my observation, the test drive session provided clear hints as to the design, technology, and performance of the e.MAS 7, which will soon be launched in the local market.
Is the Exterior Design Similar?
Proton previously emphasised that the e.MAS 7 is not merely a rebadged Galaxy E5. This claim holds true on a technical front, as the e.MAS 7 was developed concurrently with the Galaxy E5. According to Proton, over 100 of their engineers were involved in this project.
However, in terms of exterior design, it is fair to say that Proton may not have all the freedom to make significant changes to the e.MAS 7, aside from altering the logo and badges. Elements like the Infinite Weave design found in other Geely-based models are also absent, as the e.MAS 7 lacks a front grille.
It is also interesting to note that the Galaxy E5 that we test drove came with 19-inch wheels, one inch bigger than that of the e.MAS 7.
A Spacious Yet Luxurious Interior
Similar to its exterior, the cabin design of the e.MAS 7 is expected to be quite similar to that of the Galaxy E5. This is a good thing, as the interior design of this Chinese EV is quite impressive in terms of layout and materials used.
The leather upholstery appears luxurious and feels soft to the touch. Importantly, it is applied extensively, not only on the seats but also covering a substantial part of the dashboard and door panels.
In addition to white, Geely offers choices in brown-red and dark blue. Will Proton offer the same colour options with the e.MAS 7? We look forward to finding out.
Roomy and Practical—Perfect for Malaysians
With a wheelbase of 2,750 mm, the Galaxy E5 offers a spacious and comfortable cabin. I was quite impressed with the rear legroom, which is comparable to that of D-segment vehicles, even though this is a C-segment SUV.
The rear seats provide adequate thigh support, but what’s more intriguing is the front passenger seat, which comes with Ottoman functionality—a feature typically found only in luxury MPVs.
For those who often carry a lot of items, fret not: the Galaxy E5 includes 33 storage compartments, including a drawer beneath the rear seats. Although the trunk space is modest (461 litres) for an SUV, there is an additional 51 liters of storage under the trunk floor.
Packed with Technology
Both the Galaxy E5 and the e.MAS 7 are powered by the same operating system, Flyme Auto, driven by the 7 nm Longying One Chip, which is touted as the first smart cockpit chip from China. Besides smartphone integration, this OS also offers voice command features for various tasks—think of it as your personal assistant.
The EV also boasts a Flyme Sound audio system with a capacity of 1,000 watts and 16 speakers, including those in the headrests. Additionally, there are external speakers useful for playing music during a gathering.
You can also use the external speakers to issue warnings to pedestrians or other road users. Notably, the sound choices available are quite unconventional, featuring sounds like “Hi,” roar of a tiger, a cat’s meow, supercar engine revving, and more.
The Galaxy E5 is Designed for Comfort—What About the e.MAS 7?
While brief, the driving session on both the Proton test track and public roads effectively revealed the character of the Galaxy E5. It was clear that the EV is tuned for a more relaxed driving experience, unlike other Chinese EVs I have tried, such as the smart #1.
The Galaxy E5 is equipped with a single electric motor at the front axle, generating 218 PS and 320 Nm of torque, enabling it to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 6.8 seconds and reach a top speed of 184 km/h.
In today’s landscape, where EVs can easily match supercars, these figures may not seem impressive. However, I believe that the Galaxy E5 is sufficiently fast for the average driver. The throttle response is calm and unhurried, even when depressed aggressively.
Moreover, the Galaxy E5’s suspension system is very soft. During our drive to Puncak Alam, the vehicle proved adept at soaking up bumps from uneven surfaces almost seamlessly within the cabin. Nevertheless, the Galaxy E5 tend to bounce when cruising at high speeds or being driven on undulating roads.
Conclusion
As mentioned, the test drive session was valuable as it provided considerable insight into the upcoming Proton e.MAS 7.
In terms of exterior and interior design, as well as infotainment systems and technology, I personally do not expect significant changes, as the Galaxy E5 package is already appealing.
However, regarding driving dynamics—particularly throttle response and suspension tuning—Proton will undoubtedly apply its expertise to ensure the e.MAS 7 is well-suited for Malaysian road conditions while meeting the expectations of local EV buyers.
Chinese automotive company Geely is currently scouting suitable locations to establish a large-scale production facility on the European continent.
However according to Reuters sources, Geely Auto Group’s Vice President Li Chuanhai confirmed that the plans were “not 100 percent” certain while speaking in Frankfurt, Germany last week.
Geely had previously held discussions with the Polish government, but the authorities in the country did not see Geely as an ideal investment partner.
In Frankfurt, Geely has opened a new facility where it will serve as the location for testing and developing 13 new models of electric vehicles to meet stricter European standards.
In addition to Geely, several Chinese automotive manufacturers, including Chery and GWM, are also planning to establish assembly plants in Europe to avoid higher tariffs imposed on imported EVs from the mainland.
Proton recently joined hands with the Ministry of Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives (MECD), alongside with two government agencies to bring suppliers of government-linked companies (GLC) and Proton to attend the “Market Access, Technology Transfer & Vendor Enhancement Program” in China.
This initiative was aimed towards fostering innovation, enhance commercialisation activities and support Malaysia’s transition towards sustainable mobility.
Organised by MECD and led by the Malaysia Automotive Robotics and IoT Institute (MARii) and Malaysian Industrial Development Finance Bhd (MIDF), the program was conducted in early July to accelerate the development of next-generation vehicles and battery electric vehicles through strategic partnerships and technological exchanges.
Representatives from MBSB Bank, Tenaga Nasional Bhd, PLUS Expressways Bhd, UEM Edgenta Bhd, Telekom Malaysia as well as 22 Malaysian vendors were brought to visit electric vehicle (EV) components plants, such as charger plants and stations, batteries and charger producers in seven places in China, including Shanghai, Nanjing and Hangzhou.
These stops included Geely’s subsidiaries Zeekr and EV battery and charger producer VREMT at Hangzhou Bay. As a global leader in EVs, China’s comprehensive ecosystem for EV development makes this program highly significant, offering insights into manufacturing, facilities and services within the EV industry.
To facilitate interactions between Proton suppliers and Geely EV suppliers, business matchmaking sessions were held at the Geely Research Centre (GRI) at Hangzhou Bay during the programme. 95% of the participants were satisfied with the session that helps to identify potential partnerships and collaborations for EV component supply chains.
Among all participants, 87% of local suppliers expressed the intention to collaborate with China suppliers with the top five partnership by category as distributorship, collaboration in technology transfer, joint venture partner, collaboration in skill development and investment for joint business.
The government is committed to advancing the electric vehicle (EV) and green technology. Increased collaboration and partnerships aim to build essential infrastructure and support a sustainable EV ecosystem through technology transfer. By developing the local supply chain, Malaysia hopes to cut import reliance, create jobs and stimulate economic growth, according to MECD.
In a separate trip to China a month prior, Proton previewed upcoming models and design concepts to gain more insights on the development work done by the design team in meeting local and global market needs.
“This experience has provided vendors and dealers valuable insights into the global automotive market dynamics and reinforces Proton’s leadership in delivering cutting-edge vehicles tailored to diverse consumer preferences. Some of the safety technologies and luxurious interior in the model were way beyond its market segment. With strong demand for technological advanced vehicles at competitive prices, all the models are poised to make a significant impact to the market,” said Thomas Lim, President, Proton Vendors Association.
“Proton’s recent trips have demonstrated a strong commitment to product innovation and a strategic approach for introducing new models both locally and globally. This underscores the need for increased collaboration and technology exchanges to ensure the long-term resilience of the automotive sector in Malaysia and to accelerate progress towards these ambitious goals,” said Li Chunrong, Chief Executive Officer, Proton.
Zeekr has launched the 2025 electric sedan model 007, bringing several improvements such as faster charging time, new-generation batteries, and a smart cockpit.
There have been no changes in terms of power, as the standard rear-wheel-drive version is still capable of producing up to 415 hp, while the all-wheel-drive version is capable of generating 636 hp.
However, Zeekr has reprogrammed the algorithm, with the 0-100 km/h acceleration now at a rapid 5.0 seconds for the RWD version.
Meanwhile, the AWD version maintains its acceleration at a swift 2.84 seconds.
The Zeekr 007 can be equipped with a 100 kWh CATL Qilin ternary lithium battery pack with fast charging at 5C.
There is also the second-generation 75 kWh Golden Brick lithium iron phosphate battery with improved charging speed from 4.5C to 5.5C, theoretically achieving a 10-80 percent SoC charge in 10.5 minutes.
Zeekr claims that the Golden Brick battery is the world’s fastest mass-produced charging battery, offering a range of up to 688 km.
For the cabin space, Zeekr has upgraded the operating system to the Zeekr OS AI, which can actively provide recommendations based on current scenarios.
Zeekr 007 is also equipped with the Haohan 2.0 smart driving system assisted by LiDAR sensors, Nvidia Orin X processors, and over 30 sensors to enable it to handle various traffic situations on the road.
In a recent statement, Proton has confirmed that it is working closely with Geely to explore model enhancement activities for the existing Saga.
According to the national car manufacturer, the collaborative efforts with Geely, which have been conducted for several years, have been accelerated after the establishment of the Proton R&D Centre (China) in April this year.
Detailed information and a timeline for the launch of the new Saga were not disclosed; however, Proton stated that the upgrading of the Proton’s homegrown models involves leveraging joint resources with Geely and is led by Proton R&D engineers in Malaysia.
“The ability to conceptualise, design, develop and manufacture new vehicles from the ground up is unique for Proton as a national brand. These abilities have now been strengthened by enhancing the synergies of Proton’s existing in-house competencies with the resources and know-how of Geely,” the company said.
In the same statement, Proton informed that the Saga, which is now in its 39th year of production, recorded remarkable sales of 7,855 units last month. This marks the best single-month achievement for the model since October 2013.
Cumulatively, year-to-date (YTD) sales for the model have grown 8.8% year-on-year to 42,693 units, setting the stage for a stellar sales year ahead.
Since the first Proton Saga began rolling off the production lines on 9 July 1985, its sales have surpassed the 2 million mark this year, solidifying its status as the most popular model from a Malaysian automotive brand.
In celebration of Malaysia’s National Day and as a gesture of giving back to the rakyat, Proton has launched the “Saga-Merdeka Easy to Own” campaign, offering various incentives and exclusive deals throughout the month of August.
During the month-long period, the company is offering RM500 cash rebate on the purchase of any Proton Saga model. On top of that, Maybank customers are eligible for an additional RM200 rebate when the promotional message from Maybank is presented by the customer in any participating Proton dealers.
The premium electric mobility brand under Geely, Zeekr, has just unveiled a new model positioned to challenge the Tesla Model Y – the Zeekr 7X.
The 7X is a full-time electric SUV built on the SEA (Sustainable Experience Architecture) platform, the same foundation used by the Zeekr 007 sedan.
Not many specification details have been disclosed at this time.
However, according to reports, the Zeekr 7X will be offered with two battery pack options – a 75 kWh LFP pack or a 100 kWh ternary NMC battery pack.
Two electric drive configurations are also offered, with the base version featuring a rear-wheel drive with 416 hp, while the dual electric motor variant can generate a power of up to 637 hp.
In terms of dimensions, the Zeekr 7X measures 4,825 mm in length, 1,930 mm wide, 1,666 mm high, with a wheelbase of approximately 2,925 mm.
Compared to the Tesla Model Y, the Zeekr 7X is 75 mm longer, with a longer wheelbase than the Tesla (2,891 mm).
The exterior design of the 7X shares many elements with the 007 sedan, including the ‘Stargate’ front LED panel that can display text, followed by thin LED bars at the rear.
Based on the specifications of the 007 sedan in the Chinese market, the base level comes with a rear-wheel drive electric motor with 0-100 km/h acceleration in 5.4 seconds, while the all-wheel drive version can accelerate in just 2.84 seconds.
The Zeekr 007 sedan also offers a travel range of up to 688 km or up to 870 km based on CLTC data, in addition to supporting fast charging at 800 volts where owners can add 610 km of range in just 15 minutes.
Lastly, there is support for LiDAR sensors, 12 cameras, and Nvidia Orin-X processing chips for high-speed autonomous driving, which now covers the entire mainland China.
Geely Auto Group has unveiled a lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery promising durability of up to one million kilometers, faster charging rates, and most importantly, greater safety for use.
According to Geely, this Short Blade battery has been tested for up to 3,500 charging cycles, equivalent to charging and driving for one million kilometers with minimal impact on driving range.
Based on an average annual driving distance of around 20,000 km, this Short Blade battery is capable of lasting up to 50 years, thereby extending the battery’s lifespan, enhancing the resale value of EVs, and reducing carbon emissions by over 80,000 tonnes per year.
Furthermore, Geely’s new battery is said to be capable of faster charging and operating more stably at low ambient temperatures – issues that have plagued current electric vehicles.
Test data indicates that the average charging time from 10-80 percent State of Charge (SoC) for this Short Blade battery is around 17 minutes and 4 seconds, compared to 26 minutes for a similar capacity blade battery.
In extreme cold temperatures, the Short Blade battery has a high discharge rate and offers a longer driving range compared to the long blade battery.
Moreover, in ambient temperatures below negative 30℃, the Short Blade battery can maintain a capacity retention rate of 90.54 percent, compared to the average value of 78.96 percent for the long blade battery.
Importantly, this new Geely battery pack offers more robust features, thanks to the use of high-strength materials and better heat resistance.
The Short Blade battery utilizes upgraded diaphragm and electrode structures, as well as Self-Fusing technology that can prevent the occurrence of short circuits commonly encountered in accident situations.
To prove the safety level of this latest battery, Geely conducted eight 5 mm needle puncture tests simultaneously, followed by leaving it for an hour without any negative effects.
Additionally, it also underwent a test of 5.8×42 mm rifle bullet shots where no incidents of thermal runaway occurred in the structure.
Most significantly, Geely also conducted six sets of more extreme tests than industry standards, including immersion in seawater, extremely cold environments, high-frequency package bottom abrasion, 26-ton load rollover, side impact, and fire tests.
According to CarNewsChina, this Short Blade battery will debut in the Geely Galaxy E5 electric SUV model, scheduled to launch in early August.
Two battery pack capacities are offered, namely 49.52 kWh with a range of up to 440 km, and a 60.22 kWh battery pack with a driving range of up to 530 km (according to CLTC data).
Geely has just launched the Galax E8 in China, which is the third model in the Galaxy series. This sedan EV is built on Geely’s Sustainable Experience Architecture (SEA) platform with a sleek and sporty body design.
The design is not just for aesthetics, as the Galaxy E8 reportedly has a drag coefficient of only 0.199, lower than the Mercedes EQS (0.202) and Nio ET7 (0.208).
As usual, there’s no front grille, but the Geely Galaxy E8 features sharp headlamps and DRL. The side profile is free of any protruding objects that would disrupt airflow, and the door handles are retractable.
The interior of the cabin is striking, with a large 45-inch 8K resolution screen that stretches across the dashboard. Chinese companies seem to favor these large screens.
The Galaxy E8 also comes with a flat-bottomed and flat-top steering wheel, meaning it’s not circular. The central console is compact with six buttons, a rotary knob, a wireless charger pad, and storage space. Other features include ambient lighting and a panoramic sunroof.
For the mechanical aspect, the Geely Galaxy E8 is available in several configurations. The first is a 400-volt version with a 62kWh lithium phosphate (LFP) battery, a 272hp rear axle motor, and a driving range of 550km.
Another version has a 272hp motor but is equipped with a larger 76kWh battery pack, extending the driving range to 665km.
The highest variant has an 800-volt battery, a 224hp front motor, a 421hp rear motor, and a 76kWh battery pack. This variant can be driven up to 665km on a single charge.
ZEEKR, the premium electric vehicle brand from Geely, is set to enter the Singaporean market in 2024, The Business Times reported.
According to BT, sales will commence in the first half of this year, with first deliveries expected to take place sometime between June and July.
Representing Zeekr in Singapore is Premium Automobiles Group, which has been appointed as the official distributor of the EV brand. Premium Automobiles also serves as the official distributor of Audi in the republic.
To mark its arrival, Zeekr will be launching the 009 and X, both built on the Scalable Experience Architecture (SEA) platform developed by Geely.
The 009 is a large MPV with a length of up to 5.2 meters and a cabin capable of accommodating up to six passengers. Equipped with a 140-kWh battery, it is capable of covering a distance of more than 800 km on a full charge.
The X was introduced in February 2023 as the third model in Zeekr’s lineup. Technical details are scarce, but the compact crossover reportedly shares the same powertrain as the Smart #1, indicating that it may be offered with a 66 kWh battery with a range of 400 km.
Geely seems very serious about competing with Tesla in the Chinese market. Following the introduction of the Jiyue 01 model as a direct competitor to the Tesla Model Y, the Chinese market is now seeing the arrival of the new Jiyue 07 model, a powerful electric fastback sedan that will challenge the Tesla Model 3.
The Jiyue 07 shares the same Sustainable Experience Architecture (SEA) platform used in the Volvo EX90, EX30, Polestar 4, and most Zeekr models.
The base 07 variant comes equipped with a 268 hp electric motor and a 71.4 kWh battery pack, while the all-wheel-drive version comes with twin electric motors producing 536 hp and a 100 kWh battery pack.
The exterior design of the 07 shares many similarities with the previously showcased SUV 01, featuring aggressive main headlights, curved LED bar, and similar rear light units.
Based on the teaser images provided earlier, the interior of the 07 features a minimalist layout, starting with a single elongated screen, followed by a yoke-style steering wheel design.
PERAK Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Saarani Mohamad said that the state government has agreed to provide a location for the construction of a university in Proton City, Tanjung Malim, as proposed by Zhejiang Geely Holding Group.
According to Saarani, the matter was discussed two weeks ago, during the company’s senior management visit to Perak.
“During the discussion, they asked us to provide a location for the development of the university, and at the same time, we have suggested several locations that we feel are suitable.
“However, no specific period has been set for the construction of this university, as well as other details,” he said.
Saarani added that the construction of the university was seen as significant, especially in providing job opportunities to various levels of society, especially the youth.
“In other words, the opening of this university will usually make a place a new development centre. So you can imagine all the possibilities,” he said.
In October, Geely and DRB-Hicom signed a joint venture agreement for the development of the Automotive Hi-Tech Valley (AHTV) in Tanjong Malim, Perak, which is expected to attract RM32bil in investments.
IT’S safe to say that many have been waiting for the arrival of the newest sedan from Proton, especially considering that the last time the national car maker brought a sedan to the market was the Persona back in 2016.
The wait ends today with the official launch of the Proton S70, which enters the Malaysian market as the fourth Proton model to be jointly developed with Geely after the X70, X50 dan X90.
As previously reported, the S70 will be available in four variants, namely Executive, Premium, Flagship, and Flagship X.
All four variants feature a combination of a 1.5-litre turbocharged three-cylinder engine and a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT) that produces 150 PS and 226 Nm of torque.
Note that this is the same port-injected engine and transmission used in the X50 Standard, Executive, and Premium models. The 1.5-litre TGDi engine with 177 PS and 255 Nm, found in the X50 Flagship and the new X70, is not offered in the S70, at least for the time being.
Built on the B-Segment Modular Architecture (BMA) platform, the S70 measures 4,602 mm in length, 1,809 mm in width, 1,466 mm in height, and has a wheelbase of 2,637 mm, making it slightly smaller than the Geely Emgrand it is based on.
In terms of equipment, the entry-level Executive variant comes with six airbags, Lane Change Assist, electronic parking brake, 16-inch alloy wheels, fabric seats, and an 8-inch infotainment screen.
The Premium adds LED headlights, rear light bars, leatherette upholstery, automatic air conditioning, and reverse camera.
The Flagship offers more additional features, including ADAS, tyre pressure monitoring system, 17-inch alloy wheels, a 10.3-inch digital instrument cluster, power adjustment for the driver’s seat, a 12.3-inch infotainment screen, wireless charger, and a 360-degree camera with a 3D display.
The range-topping Flagship X only offers one additional feature over the Flagship, which is a sunroof.
Safety-wise, the Flagship and Flagship X variants come with Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) with 13 safety systems:
Autonomous Emergency Braking
Forward Collision Warning
Adaptive Cruise Control dengan Stop & Go
Intelligent Cruise Control
Lane Departure Warning
Lane Departure Prevention
Lane Centering Control
Traffic Sign Information
Intelligent High Beam Control
Lane Change Assist
Door Opening Warning
Rear Collision Warning
Rear Cross Traffic Alert
There are seven colour options available. Snow White and Space Grey are available for all four variants, while Armour Silver and Passion Red are only offered for the Premium and Flagship.
Marine Blue and Teal Bayou Green are exclusive to the Flagship and Flagship X, and Quartz Black is exclusive to the Flagship X.
Selling prices start from RM73,800 for the Executive, RM79,800 for the Premium, RM89,800 for the Flagship, and RM94,800 for the Flagship X.
The standard package for the S70 includes a five-year unlimited mileage warranty, a 1GB per month data package for five years, free labor for six times, financing interest rates from 2.34 percent, and Proton Insurance Program.
Additionally, the first 3,000 owners who register their cars before February 29, 2024, will receive an aero body kit worth RM3,130 (Flagship X only), a RM500 service voucher (Premium and Flagship only), and an upgraded Proton insurance program.
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