The reluctance of luxury car buyers to switch to electric vehicles (EVs) has prompted Lotus to cancel its original plan to become a fully electric brand by 2028.
This change was confirmed by Lotus CEO Feng Qingfeng when he addressed media representatives at the recent Guangzhou Motor Show.
“I believe that fuel-powered vehicles still have a long life cycle,” he stated, noting that most Lotus drivers average 30,000 kilometers per year.
This means that driving range is an important factor for customers, which leads some of them to be less interested in switching to EVs.
According to Qingfeng, range anxiety is not the only issue raised.
“The penetration rate of pure electric vehicles in the luxury car segment is slow because luxury car engines are already powerful, and the driving experience similar to eight-cylinder and twelve-cylinder engines shows strong performance.
“The increase in power offered is not significant, so some customers are not particularly interested in making the switch,” he added.
Feng Qingfeng explained that Lotus will develop “Super Hybrid” technology that features ultra-fast 900-volt charging, as well as an internal combustion engine with forced induction turbo to provide a range of up to 1,094 kilometers.
Currently, Lotus has not disclosed which model will receive this new hybrid system, but it is likely to be better suited for models such as the Eletre and Emeya, rather than sports cars like the Emira.
IN the past, buying a car used to be a simple affair. However, with the advancements in technology, the car purchasing process has become rather elaborate as Malaysians need to take into account plenty of factors before signing on the dotted line.
For instance, when it comes to engines, the options available today are not limited to just pure petrol or diesel. Depending on the make, potential buyers can now opt for hybrid powertrains if efficiency is what they aim for.
Or, if buyers no longer wish to use internal combustion engines in the name of the environment, they are encouraged to make the switch to EV, which will cost from as low as RM100,000.
In other words, car buyers now have multiple factors to mull over to make sure that the car they purchase actually meets their needs. Understanding the differences between hybrid and EV should be a good start.
Definition
Essentially, all hybrid cars have two power sources – an internal combustion engine (ICE) and an electric motor powered by a battery pack.
Depending on the type of hybrid system, the ICE and electric motor can propel the wheels together or separately. This depends on the vehicle’s speed, the remaining battery charge, and other factors.
Plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEV) have a longer electric driving range because they come with a larger motor and battery. In addition to regenerative braking, the battery can be replenished from an external source, just like an EV.
Unlike hybrid cars, electric cars do not have conventional engines and rely solely on the electric motor to move.
Most EVs have one or two electric motors, along with a large battery pack located at the bottom of the chassis. EV batteries typically support both AC and DC charging.
Advantages of hybrid
In general, hybrid powertrains work well to reduce fuel consumption, with some systems also promising better acceleration performance.
Fuel savings vary based on the hybrid system. For example, a mild-hybrid system does not offer significant fuel savings compared to a PHEV largely due to the fact that it can’t operate solely in EV mode.
Although heavier than traditional ICE cars, hybrid cars generally have enough grunt to keep things fun. They may not be as fast as EVs, but hybrid powertrains can combine the power of the engine and electric motor to provide strong acceleration.
Additionally, hybrid users do not need to worry about charging the battery because a hybrid battery does not require charging. It can be recharged using regenerative braking. This, however, does not apply to PHEVs as their batteries still need to be plugged in for a full charge.
Advantages of EV
Obviously, EVs do not use any fuel at all, making them the right choice for those looking to reduce their monthly expenses, especially with the impending petrol subsidy rationalisation.
Of course, consumers still need to factor in charging costs, but at least they have the freedom choose charging stations that offer charging rates within their budget.
Speaking of budget, EV users in Malaysia have the opportunity reduce their ownership costs as road tax for EVs is free until the end of 2025.
Performance-wise, EVs are generally faster than hybrid cars due to the electric motor’s ability to generate maximum torque as soon as the accelerator is pressed.
The absence of an ICE also makes EVs much quieter and smoother on the road, giving passengers a sense of luxury.
Which one should I choose?
At the end of the day, understand your needs before making a decision. Hybrids are suitable if you want a daily that’s super reliable and fuel-efficient. They offer a longer driving range than EVs and charging not something to fret about.
Hybrids, or more precisely, PHEVs, are a good option for those who feel like they want to transition to EVs but are not ready to do so yet. This is because PHEVs come with an electric driving mode, while users also get to familiarise themselves with charging.
Driving an EV is fun, and its acceleration can be addictive, but it also has a limited range. Therefore, choose an EV only if you have more than one car and do not live far from work.
In addition to range and the anxiety that comes with it, you also need to consider the public charging infrastructure, which is far from ready. The number of charging stations is growing but there will be times where you come across a charging point that’s unusable due to some technical issues. So, the more, the merrier.
The best way to reduce your dependence on public chargers is by installing a home charger but this is only possible if you live in a landed property.
Honda Motor is reported to be closing one of its manufacturing plants located in the Ayutthaya region next year due to the intense competition it is facing.
According to a Reuters report, the manufacturer plans to consolidate vehicle production at the Prachinburi plant, while the Ayutthaya plant will be converted into a parts production hub.
Honda is also reported to be making additional investments at the Prachinburi plant to enable them to switch from assembling internal combustion engine vehicles to producing hybrid engine vehicles.
Honda’s first vehicle assembly plant in Thailand was opened in the Ayutthaya region in 1996, while the second plant was opened in Prachinburi in 2016.
Intense competition from Chinese automotive manufacturers has seen Honda settle for sales below the 100,000 units over the past four years.
In fact, since 2019 the total production figures recorded by the two plants in Thailand have decreased from 228,000 units to below 150,000 units in the same period up until last year (2023).
Mazda has updated its compact crossover offering, the Mazda CX-50 for the 2025 model year, where it now utilizes hybrid powertrain borrowed from Toyota.
Specifically, the 2025 Mazda CX-50 hybrid variant has been equipped with the Toyota Hybrid System, consisting of a 2.5-liter inline-four cylinder engine, three electric motors, a small-capacity battery pack, and electronically controlled CVT transmission.
The same setup used in several Toyota models now delivers a total output of 219 hp and 221 Nm of torque for the 2025 CX-50.
Although the system comes from Toyota, Mazda engineers have fine-tuned the hybrid powertrain to offer smooth pedal response and a more engaging driving dynamics.
Furthermore, the hybrid version of the Mazda CX-50 can now offer the ability to tow loads weighing up to 680 kg.
While other CX-50 variants still retain the 2.5-liter Skyactiv engine producing 187 hp/251 Nm, and a 2.5-liter turbo engine capable of generating as much as 256 hp and 433 Nm of torque.
Externally, the 2025 CX-50 has received a redesigned front bumper, followed by unique alloy wheels in 17 or 19 inches.
The mentioned hybrid variant gets exclusive features such as red leather upholstery, while other variants receive updates like Alexa integration and additional safety features such as lane departure warnings and Smart Brake Support that now supports pedestrian detection during the night.
In the United States, the Mazda CX-50 is available starting at $30,300 (RM142,046), while the hybrid variant starts at $33,970 (RM159,251).
Honda has previously revived the iconic Integra name for use in the American and Chinese markets.
Despite sporting a different appearance, it still brings one notable similarity – using the base of the Honda Civic.
Now, another iconic name is set to be given a new lease of life, that is the Honda Prelude where this two-door sports car is expected to be offered in the European market in the coming decade.
Similar to the two mentioned Honda Integra models, this new generation Honda Prelude will also be built based on the Honda Civic platform.
In addition to being offered in left-hand drive (LHD) and right-hand drive (RHD) versions, Honda is expected to market the Prelude sports car with the e:HEV hybrid technology that already exists in the current Civic model.
In its current configuration, the naturally aspirated 2.0-liter hybrid engine is capable of producing up to 181 hp and 232 Nm of torque, but there are reports that the figures will be increased to 208 hp specifically for the Prelude model.
This new generation Honda Prelude also promises an enjoyable driving experience that can be achieved through the perfect balance between driving dynamics and fuel efficiency.
Certainly, chief engineer Tomoyuki Yamagami has previously emphasized that the Honda Prelude will not be a sportier model than the Honda Civic Type R.
Based on the official images provided, this red Honda Prelude does not bring significant design changes compared to the concept unit showcased during the 2023 Japan Mobility Show.
All four wheel arches are now paired with 20-inch black rims, followed by red brake calipers and a carbon fiber body kit to match.
So far, Honda has not revealed details regarding the cabin design, but considering the low hood structure and high windshield, it can offer a wider field of vision.
The good news is that this sixth-generation Honda Prelude will be showcased to the public at the Goodwood Festival of Speed taking place this week.
Last night, Proton launched the e.MAS, their sub-brand for fully electric vehicles (EVs) that will begin entering the market by the end of this year. As a generation that experienced the era of Friendster and Myspace, this reminds the writer of the Proton EMAS concept from more than a decade ago.
The Proton EMAS is a concept designed by the firm Italdesign Giugiaro. The name EMAS stands for Eco Mobility Advance Solution, which also obviously means “gold” in English. Eco Mobility Advance Solution also technically means that EMAS is designed for energy-efficient vehicle solutions.
Therefore, it is equipped with a 1.2-liter 3-cylinder engine that generates 20hp at 1,500rpm and 47hp at 3,500rpm. The torque is 107Nm at 2,500rpm. This engine, weighing only 56kg, is paired with a 16.5kWh battery pack and 370-volt battery cells, making the Proton EMAS a hybrid range extender.
The EMAS can accelerate from 0 to 96km/h in 14 seconds and reach a maximum speed of 169km/h. It can travel up to 563km per tank. The design of EMAS is based on the Toyota iQ platform, including the suspension and steering, but all other aspects are new from Proton. It has MacPherson suspension at the front and a torsion beam at the rear.
Proton first revealed the EMAS concept to the public at the 2010 Geneva Motor Show, one of the most prestigious automotive exhibitions in the world.
The Proton EMAS also comes in several variants. The standard EMAS is a 5-door version with four seats, while the EMAS3 is a 3-door with a 3+1 seating configuration. There is also the EMAS Country, with SUV styling and higher suspension. If you notice, the EMAS Country looks similar to the Iriz Active, doesn’t it? The writer believes the Iriz Active takes inspiration from the EMAS Country.
The writer still remembers reading and seeing this EMAS concept during university and truly hopes it becomes a reality model sold to the public. Perhaps the EMAS could be a competitor to the Myvi?
At the Geneva Motor Show, Proton’s then-CEO, Dato Syed Zainal, said, “The goal is to produce a global car for the world market.” According to him, there were only 17 to 24 months left before entering production, which should have started in 2012 or 2013.
However, the Proton EMAS never became a reality.
Do you still remember the Proton EMAS concept? The writer is sure that the Tiktok generation has never heard of it.
The BYD Qin L was launched at an event in Xi’an, China, with five variants priced between 99,800 Yuan (RM64,846) and 139,800 Yuan (RM90,836). Interestingly, its PHEV hybrid system can provide a driving range of up to 2,100km per tank.
The Qin L is part of BYD’s Dynasty lineup, featuring dragon face aesthetics, a symbol of China’s national animal. As a result, the Qin L boasts a new chrome bar character line, a large grille, and prominent side lines. Interestingly, it retains conventional door handles, rather than retractable or flush types.
The rear design showcases continuous illuminated lights from side to side, with graphics inspired by traditional Chinese knots.
In terms of dimensions, the BYD Qin L measures 4,830mm in length, 1,900mm in width, and 1,495mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,790mm. It employs MacPherson suspension at the front and multi-link at the rear. The interior is also inspired by Chinese paintings and features numerous knot-shaped graphics.
There are physical buttons near the gear lever, along with a 15.6-inch rotating central screen and an 8.8-inch digital instrument display. Standard features include six airbags, NFC smart phone key, automatic air conditioning, and six speakers.
The high-spec model comes with a panoramic roof, DiPilot L2 system, power seats at the front, dashcam, 18-inch rims, an eight-speaker audio system, and seat heaters and coolers. The key to the 2,100km driving range lies in the new PHEV (plug-in hybrid) system, ensuring high efficiency operation of the engine and electric motor, with fuel consumption as low as 2.9 liters/100km.
The PHEV version utilizes a 1.5-liter engine delivering 99hp and 126Nm of torque. The lower variant has an electric driving range of 80km, using a 10.08kWh battery and a 160hp/210Nm electric motor.
The higher variant features a 15.874kWh battery providing an electric driving range of up to 120km. It utilizes a more powerful EHS160 motor generating 214hp and 260Nm of torque. This model is capable of achieving a range of up to 2,100km per petrol tank.
THIS is big news. Despite only a facelift, the Porsche 911 is now entering a new era. This is because the sports car has received a hybrid for the first time in its history.
As we reported earlier, the Porsche 911 will become a hybrid, and it arrives to update the 992 generation (called 992.2) in the Carrera GTS variant.
For 2025, the Porsche 911 Carrera GTS retains its identity with the rear-mounted flat-six engine, but now with an electric motor and an electric turbocharger. This boosts power to 532hp and 608Nm of torque.
The engine used is a new 3.6-liter unit replacing the previous 3.0-liter one. This engine alone produces 478hp and 569Nm of torque. The hybrid system replaces the previous twin-turbo package with a single electric turbocharger.
It functions like a traditional exhaust-gas turbocharger but with an 11kW (14.7hp) motor positioned between the turbine and the compressor. This motor can spin the turbo very quickly for a fast response, drastically reducing turbo lag. It can also send power back to the 400-volt battery.
There is also a generator motor of 32.6hp sandwiched between the flat-six engine and the 8-speed dual-clutch gearbox. Both are powered by a very small 1.9kWh battery located under the front hood.
The T-Hybrid powertrain is designed to enhance performance at all rpm ranges while operating at the ideal air-fuel ratio of 14.7:1 at almost all times. This hybrid also means no more manual transmission for the 911 Carrera GTS.
This new Porsche 911 Carrera GTS is heavier than the previous model, partly due to standard features like rear-wheel steering, but the additional power overcomes this weight increase. It is also the first Carrera GTS capable of accelerating to 100km/h in less than 3 seconds, specifically 2.9 seconds.
In addition to the T-Hybrid, the 2025 Carrera GTS receives a new active aerodynamic flap at the front for better cooling without compromising drag. There are also cosmetic changes on the front and rear, as well as new wheel options.
The rear tires are wider now, measuring 315/30/21, while the front remains at 245/35/20. Inside, the biggest change is the fully digital instrument cluster. Yes, no more analog tachometer needle.
The base 911 (992) Carrera 2025 receives turbos and an intercooler from previous GTS and Turbo models. This provides an additional 9hp while torque remains at 448Nm.
For 2025, only the Carrera and Carrera GTS receive facelifts, while other variations such as Turbo, GT3, GT3 RS, and GT2 will follow later. The Porsche 911 992.2 2025 is expected to arrive towards the end of this year.
KIA continues to expand their lineup of electric vehicles (EVs) with the introduction of the EV3, a compact SUV. This model joins the existing lineup, including the EV5, EV6, and EV9.
The Kia EV3 is built on the E-GMP (Electric-Global Modular Platform) but does not feature the 800-volt architecture found in the EV6 and EV9. Instead, it comes with a 400-volt architecture similar to the EV5, enabling DC charging from 10 to 80 percent in 31 minutes.
With a full charge, it can be driven up to 600km based on WLTP cycle. This range applies to the Long Range model, while the Standard Range variant offers a slightly shorter distance.
Power is supplied by nickel manganese cobalt (NMC) batteries, known for offering better power and longer lifespan.
Both variants are equipped with the same electric motor, mounted on the front axle. This motor has an output of 201hp and 283Nm of torque, allowing the EV3 to accelerate to 100km/h in 7.5 seconds. The maximum speed is limited to 170km/h.
The Kia EV3 is equipped with eDTVC (Electric Dynamic Torque Vectoring Control) for optimal grip, as well as a new feature called i-Pedal 3.0, which functions as regenerative braking.
The EV3 offers a cargo space of 460 liters, and since it has no engine, it also has an additional 25 liters of space under the front hood.
In terms of appearance, the Kia EV3 features the ‘Tiger Face Star Map’, a result of the design of the DRL (Daytime Running Lights) and main headlights. The grille also comes in two different bumper design options, depending on the variant.
Despite its boxy and angular shape, the Kia EV3 maintains aerodynamics, with a drag coefficient as low as 0.263.
The cabin design showcases a minimalist concept. There is a single horizontal air vent, dividing the dashboard into two sections. Several physical buttons are located on the center console.
The screen on the dashboard is quite large, consisting of a 12.3-inch instrument display, a 12.3-inch infotainment display, and a 5-inch air conditioning panel.
Some parts of the cabin are made from recycled materials, with the option of Air, Earth, or Water trim.
Other features include the Harman Kardon audio system, AI assistance, Automotive Content Platform, and ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems).
PERODUA has unveiled its first electric vehicle (EV) prototype – known as the Myvi Conversion – which will serve as the foundation for the compact car manufacturer in developing its electric technology.
As the name suggests, the prototype is based on the Myvi but equipped with a 55.7kWh battery pack, providing a driving range of up to 350km. It features a single electric motor at the front wheel, delivering an output of 161hp and 220Nm of torque.
The EV prototype consists of three main components: the power bench, the power converter system, and the overall frame design, all made in Malaysia.
Meanwhile, the development of the power conversion technology is carried out in collaboration with a company based in Australia. Perodua is also cooperating with three local universities for this project.
“The process of developing the power bench is carried out by Perodua in collaboration with three local universities, namely Universiti Tenaga Nasional, Universiti Kuala Lumpur, and Universiti Putra Malaysia,” said Perodua’s President and Chief Executive Officer, Dato’ Sri Zainal Abidin Ahmad.
“This collaboration aims to fully understand the technology used.”
This collaboration, which began in September 2022, sees Perodua and the three universities working together to develop the EV power converter system from the basic stage.
The collaboration opens up opportunities for all parties to enhance their expertise and capabilities in the field of EV.
It is understood that Perodua’s first EV model is planned to be launched at the end of 2025 with a price not exceeding RM100,000.
“We chose the Perodua Myvi as the model of choice for this project because it is our car model that has won the hearts of most Malaysians,” said Zainal.
“Although the actual appearance of our EV is different from what is being showcased here, rest assured that Perodua’s electric car will make its presence in the market.
“Meanwhile, we invite the public to visit the Perodua booth at the Malaysia Auto Show 2024 to see the Perodua Myvi Conversion for themselves and participate in various attractive campaigns that we have prepared.
“We also welcome customers to interact with our staff here to obtain further information about Perodua, such as our newly implemented Standard Outlet aimed at providing a seamless experience to customers at our 3S center,” said Dato’ Sri Zainal.
THE 19th Malaysia Car of the Year (MCOTY) recently concluded, and the prestigious title of Overall Car of the Year was awarded to the Honda Civic e:HEV RS Hybrid.
The annual program which serves as a platform for automotive enthusiasts and experts to recognize and celebrate the best new cars in Malaysia, unanimously picked the Honda Civic e:HEV RS Hybrid for its technology which eliminates power-robbing gearboxes, whether CVT or hydraulic, and for providing the best energy regeneration of all current hybrids in Malaysia.
With 121 new cars nominated for this year’s award, the competition was fierce and represented a diverse range of vehicles. The judging panel consisted of 10 esteemed automotive journalists and two professionals from the legal and medical fields.
These judges evaluated the cars based on several criteria, including design, technology, safety, and value for money. As a result of their analysis, the 121 nominated cars were divided into seven main categories, with 13 winners emerging as the best in their respective segments.
One interesting aspect of the MCOTY program is the People’s Choice award, which is determined through online polling using smartphone to implement one person one vote from a list of 25 cars nominated by the judges and a team from the Malaysia Automotive Robotics IoT Institute.
This year, the Perodua Axia E took home the People’s Choice award in the mass market category, while the BMW iX1 xDrive30 M Sport won the hearts of the public in the premium market. Interesting to see that Malaysians selected an EV in the premium market segment.
In addition to the winners, the judges also made Honourable Mentions of three outstanding cars that defied convention.
The Ford Ranger Raptor 3.0 V6 petrol twin turbo was acknowledged for its outstanding performance, being described as a supercar in pick-up guise.
The Perodua Axia 1.0 E received recognition for its affordability, with its price tag of RM22,000 making it one of the best value-for-money cars in the world. Despite criticism regarding its safety standards, the judges argued that the Axia E is still much safer than motorcycles.
Third, the Chery Omoda 5 was commended for its warranty, as it was launched with an unprecedented 1 million km warranty for the first 3,000 buyers. This imaginative brand-building exercise caught the attention of the judging panel.
Winners of the 19th Malaysia Car of the Year Awards:
A) Sedan and Hatchback:
Below: RM110,000: Toyota Vios 1.5G
RM111,000 to RM249,000: Honda Civic e:HEV RS Hybrid
Above RM250,000: Mercedes-Benz C300 AMG Line
