All posts by Hanif Su'ib

Someone who loves driving manual cars but prefers riding an automatic scooter. Maybe it's an age thing.

2026 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross set to debut as an EV

To strengthen its presence in the European market, Mitsubishi will rely on models produced by Renault for badge engineering.

Most recently, Mitsubishi is set to launch an all-electric SUV, the Eclipse Cross EV, based on the Renault Scenic E-Tech platform.

Previously, Mitsubishi has introduced several models based on Renault, including the Colt (Clio), ASX (Captur), and Grandis (Symbioz).

Based on a teaser video that was uploaded, several features can be identified, such as aerodynamic wheel design, front grille pattern, hidden door handles, and the Eclipse Cross and EV badges.

To differentiate it from the donor model from Renault, Mitsubishi will also apply its Dynamic Shield design language to the new model.

This C-segment SUV is expected to retain the specifications found in the Scenic E-Tech, with either a single electric motor delivering 168 hp or a dual-motor version producing 215 hp, along with battery pack options of 60 kWh and 87 kWh.

Additionally, the Eclipse Cross EV will feature a five-seat configuration, with a cargo space of 545 liters, a Google-based infotainment system, and various ADAS safety features.

Proton Xchange Programme offers RM2,000 incentive for trading in old cars for new models

Proton today launched the Proton Xchange programme, encouraging owners of old vehicles to trade them in for new Proton models, regardless of their brand.

This initiative aligns with the government’s efforts to enhance road safety and promote greener mobility.

With a budget of RM4.8 million, Proton will collaborate with Car Medic Sdn Bhd, an approved automotive treatment facility (AATF), to devise a comprehensive solution that offers incentives to participants while ensuring the safe disposal of old vehicles.

For each old vehicle disposed of, owners will receive an incentive valued at RM2,000, which can be used towards the purchase of any new Proton model, including the Proton e.MAS 7 EV.

The requirements to participate in the Proton Xchange programme are as follows:

  • Open to all types of vehicles, including sedans, MPVs, vans, 4x4s, trucks, and buses
  • The vehicle must be at least 15 years old and in a condition that is no longer safe for use
  • Must include a Vehicle Ownership Certificate (VOC) and form JPJK1KD
  • Owners must also obtain a Certificate of Destruction (COD) from Car Medic

The Proton Xchange programme will run until the end of this year, with only 2,400 slots available.

Speaking at the event, Malaysia’s Minister of Transport, YB Anthony Loke Siew Fook, stated, “The Ministry of Transport supports the Xchange program initiative and encourages more original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) to follow PROTON’s lead by looking beyond just sales targets and profits.”

“As the first automotive company in the country, PROTON is once again becoming a change agent in the automotive industry and setting a good example. No other automotive brand has a program with the same depth and scope, and this will significantly reduce their carbon footprint,” he explained.

Proton’s Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Li Chunrong, said, “The PROTON Xchange programme marks an important step towards safer and greener automotive practices in Malaysia, showcasing PROTON’s commitment to its customers and the nation.

“We also hope this initiative encourages the replacement of old vehicles with new cars equipped with modern safety features, thereby reducing road risks.”

During his speech, Anthony Loke also announced a surprise: every new Proton vehicle registered through this programme will get one year free road tax.

2025 Honda e:N1 officially launched in Malaysia – 500 km range, priced from RM149,900

Honda Malaysia’s first electric vehicle (EV), the Honda e:N1, has officially been launched.

Although it shares a similar appearance to the Honda HR-V, the e:N1 does not share the same platform.

Instead, the e:N1 is built on the e:N Architecture F platform and features a front-wheel drive electric motor that produces 201 hp and 310 Nm of torque.

It can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 7.7 seconds, reaching a top speed of 160 km/h.

Equipped with a 68.8 kWh lithium-ion battery pack, this electric SUV can travel up to 500 km on a single full charge (NEDC data).

This EV supports AC charging at 10 kW (full charging time of six hours) and DC charging up to 78 kW, allowing the battery to be charged from 10% to 80% in just 45 minutes.

In terms of dimensions, the Honda e:N1 measures 4,380 mm in length, 1,790 mm in width, 1,592 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,610 mm and a ground clearance of 142 mm.

Standard features include 18-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights, sequential LED turn signals, clear rear light housings with a smoky effect, a rear spoiler, and a shark fin antenna.

Inside the cabin, the e:N1 is equipped with leather-wrapped seats, a 10.25-inch digital cluster screen, a 15.1-inch vertical central screen, and wireless support for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

The center console features PRND buttons, cup holders, a driving mode selection button, and an electronic parking brake.

The Honda Sensing safety suite includes features such as Forward Collision Warning (FCW), Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS), Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Lane Departure Warning (LDW), Road Departure Mitigation System (RDM), Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS), Lead Car Departure Notification (LCDN), and Automatic High Beam (AHB).

Additionally, there is also a Blind Spot Information (BSI) system and a Cross-Traffic Monitoring (CTM) system.

There are three color options available: Aqua Topaz Metallic with a gray interior theme, and Urban Gray Pearl and Platinum White Pearl with a black interior theme.

For the local market, the Honda e:N1 is priced at RM149,900 on-the-road, excluding insurance.

 

BYD’s ultra-compact EV spied undergoing testing, aiming for Japan’s kei car market

CarNewsChina reports that BYD is currently developing a prototype of a mini-sized electric vehicle with one goal: to capture Japan’s kei car market.

Although still covered in camouflage stickers, the car showcases features such as sliding rear doors, twin A-pillars, and a relatively high window glass housing structure.

This demonstrates BYD’s seriousness in creating a product that complies with the dimensional regulations set for the kei car segment in Japan.

For your information, the kei car segment is a category of ultra-compact cars in Japan, with a maximum length of 3.4 meters, a width of 1.48 meters, and a height of 2 meters.

Furthermore, engine power is limited to a maximum of 64 hp according to the agreement of the Japan Automobile Manufacturers Association (JAMA).

Although BYD currently offers the Seagull as its smallest EV, its size is still too large to be categorized as a kei car.

According to reports from China, BYD’s electric ‘kei car’ will be equipped with a 20 kWh battery that offers a range of about 180 km (WLTC data), along with support for fast charging at 100 kW.

BYD plans to produce this electric kei car in China for export to the Japanese market starting in late 2026, with the ambition to capture 40 percent of the electric kei car market within a few years.

Currently, the kei car market in Japan offers two EV models: the Nissan Sakura and its twin, the Mitsubishi eK X EV.

Both models were launched in 2022, equipped with a 64 hp electric motor producing 195 Nm of torque, and a 20 kWh battery pack with a driving range of up to 180 km.

Kineta, Charge+ collaborate to expand regional EV charging network

Kineta Sdn Bhd, a provider of electric vehicle charging solutions, has announced a strategic partnership with Southeast Asian charging operator Charge+ in an effort to further expand EV charging infrastructure in the region.

Under this strategic collaboration, Kineta will play a crucial role for Charge+ in expanding the charging network in Malaysia.

In addition, both parties will work together to drive the growth and accessibility of the EV charging ecosystem both domestically and regionally.

According to Sunny Lee, Managing Director of Kineta, “This strategic partnership marks a significant achievement in our mission to accelerate EV adoption in Malaysia, while simultaneously paving the way for a smoother cross-border charging experience.”

“We are not just building infrastructure; we want to make electric vehicle ownership simpler and more accessible for everyone,” he explained.

Kineta boasts a team of certified engineers recognized by the Energy Commission (EC), among the largest in Malaysia.

With over 9,000 chargers sold and more than 6,000 installations in large-scale retail and commercial areas, Kineta also has its own team that includes customer service, after-sales support, technical assistance, research, and warranty services.

Charge+, established in Singapore in 2018, now operates a charging network with over 3,000 locations across six countries, including Cambodia, Indonesia, Vietnam, and Thailand.

With a mission to accelerate the transition to more sustainable mobility, Charge+ aims to provide up to 30,000 charging points by 2030.

Goh Chee Kiong, Chief Executive Officer of Charge+, stated, “Through this strategic cooperation, Charge+ and Kineta are committed to providing a seamless and reliable charging experience, while also alleviating range anxiety among EV drivers in Malaysia and the region.”

“This collaboration also facilitates Charge+’s mission to build a DC charging network spanning 5,000 km along highways across Southeast Asia,” he explained.

Isuzu D-Max EV offers 361 km range, 190 hp/325 Nm and 4WD system

Isuzu Motors Limited has recently announced that production of the electric pickup model, the D-Max EV, has officially begun at its factory in Thailand.

The zero-emission pickup was first showcased at the Bangkok Motor Show 2024.

According to specifications, the D-Max EV is equipped with two electric motors and an all-wheel-drive system, with the front motor producing 58 hp and 108 Nm, while the rear motor produces 132 hp and 217 Nm.

The total power output reaches 190 hp and 325 Nm, allowing for acceleration from 0 to 97 km/h in just 10.1 seconds, with a maximum speed of 130 km/h.

The D-Max EV’s capabilities are on par with the diesel version of the D-Max, boasting a payload capacity of 1,010 kg and a towing capacity of 3,500 kg.

The 66.9 kWh lithium-ion battery pack enables the vehicle to travel up to 361 km for city driving (WLTP data).

The D-Max EV also supports 11 kW AC charging (0-100 percent in 10 hours) and 50 kW DC fast charging, where the battery can be charged from 20 to 80 percent in one hour.

In terms of dimensions, the D-Max EV measures 5,280 mm in length, 1,870 mm in width, and 1,810 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 3,125 mm. The vehicle weighs approximately 2,350 kg.

Additionally, the D-Max EV features a ground clearance of 210 mm, the capability to wade through 600 mm of water, and approach and departure angles of 30.5 degrees and 24.2 degrees, respectively.

Unlike the standard D-Max, which uses leaf spring suspension in the rear, the handling of the D-Max EV is enhanced by the use of De-Dion suspension.

According to Isuzu, the left-hand drive (LHD) version of the D-Max EV will be distributed to major European markets in the third quarter (Q3) of this year.

The right-hand drive (RHD) version is set to begin production at the end of this year and is expected to be sold in the UK market in 2026, before being expanded to other markets.

2026 Toyota Corolla Cross GR Sport launched for the European market

Toyota has introduced a facelifted version of the Corolla Cross in several Southeast Asian markets since last year.

However, for the European market, the SUV now comes with a much bolder appearance, especially for the GR Sport variant, which is being launched in the continent for the first time.

Starting with the standard version, this facelifted Corolla Cross features a redesigned bumper accompanied by a honeycomb grille structure.

Unlike models for other markets, the 2026 Corolla Cross is equipped with sharper graphic LED headlights, followed by the introduction of a horizontal LED light bar.

The taillights also feature new graphic designs, while all four wheel arches are adorned with new 18-inch rims.

Inside the cabin, there is a 10.5-inch central screen, a 12.3-inch digital cluster screen, a larger center console featuring a new gear knob, and a faster wireless smartphone charger.

Additionally, Apple CarPlay support is also available.

Toyota promises a quieter ride, thanks to improvements made in sound insulation to reduce noise and vibrations.

The highest variant will come with ambient lighting, as well as heated seats and a heated steering wheel.

As mentioned, this is the first time Toyota has introduced the GR Sport variant for the Corolla Cross in Europe.

This bolder appearance is largely inspired by the bumpers of the GR Yaris and the facelifted GR Corolla.

In addition, the Corolla Cross GR Sport is also equipped with sportier 19-inch rims, a suspension that is 10 mm lower, as well as recalibrated power steering and the addition of paddle shifters as standard features.

Toyota adds a Sport Mode feature for quicker acceleration, along with a Snow Extra mode for improved control and stability during winter.

In Europe, the Corolla Cross will be available in Hybrid 140 or Hybrid 200 specifications.

The base Hybrid 140 features a 1.8-liter hybrid engine capable of producing 138 hp, while the Hybrid 200 variant comes with a 2.0-liter hybrid engine with a power output of up to 194 hp.

 

2026 Toyota Corolla Cross 

2026 Toyota Corolla Cross GR Sport

Volvo EX90 named 2024 World Luxury Car of The Year

The full-size electric SUV, the Volvo EX90, has been crowned the winner of the World Luxury Car of the Year 2024 award.

This prestigious recognition was announced at the New York International Auto Show by a panel of judges comprising 96 prominent automotive journalists from 30 countries.

The Volvo EX90 has been praised for its sophisticated Scandinavian luxury, dynamic electric performance, and world-class safety innovations.

Officially launched in April, the Volvo EX90 is available in a single Ultra Twin variant, featuring twin electric motors that produce 517 horsepower and 910 Nm of torque.

Its 111 kWh NMC battery pack offers a driving range of up to 623 km on a full charge.

As the most advanced SUV, the Volvo EX90 is described as a mobile computer, equipped with an NVIDIA DRIVE AI processing unit that manages every aspect of the vehicle, from infotainment and advanced driver assistance to safety features.

In addition to passenger detection functions, the Volvo EX90 includes a driver understanding feature, which monitors real-time data and provides alerts or safely stops the vehicle in the event of an emergency.

The Volvo EX90 is also equipped with a comprehensive array of sensors, including radar, cameras, ultrasonic sensors, and a LIDAR unit designed to support higher levels of autonomy in driving in the future.

In the Malaysian market, the Volvo EX90 is priced at RM442,888, complete with an unlimited mileage vehicle warranty, 24-hour roadside assistance, and five years of free digital services.

The first 50 customers will receive a wall charger voucher and a foldable panoramic sunshade worth RM5,000 for free.

Jaecoo Malaysia offers special benefits for professionals

Jaecoo Malaysia has announced a Professional Affiliates Program (PAP) specifically designed for professionals and employees of registered companies in Malaysia.

Through the PAP, benefits in the form of discounts are offered on Jaecoo’s model lineup, including the J7 2WD, J7 AWD, and J7 PHEV.

According to Jaecoo Malaysia’s Vice President Emily Lek, the PAP was introduced in response to positive feedback and demand from corporate and professional sectors.

“This is a step forward in our efforts to elevate the brand and connect more closely with our fans and customers,” she said.

In addition to professionals, the PAP is also open to all individuals who are members of associations, financial and insurance services, corporate organizations, and recognized content creators serving as Jaecoo brand ambassadors.

The benefits of this program can also be shared with eligible close family members.

For more information, please visit www.jaecoo.com.my or Jaecoo Malaysia’s social media platforms.

AMI now the official distributor of Indian Motorcycle brand in Malaysia

AFY Mobility Industries (AMI) has announced the relaunch of the premium motorcycle brand Indian Motorcycle for the local market.

The distribution of Indian Motorcycle models will be managed by AMI’s subsidiary, Spirit Lake Sdn Bhd.

In conjunction with this, AMI has also announced the opening of a showroom located on Jalan PJ222 in Petaling Jaya.

You are invited to visit and take a closer look at models such as the Scout ABS Icon, Scout Bobber, and Scout Rouge ABS.

The Indian Motorcycle brand will also make its appearance at the Malaysia Autoshow 2025, which will be held at MAEPS, Serdang, from May 9 to 15.

2025 VW Golf GTI Black Edition now in Malaysia – from RM243,990

For hot hatch enthusiasts, Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM) is now offering the Golf GTI Black Edition to the local market.

The VW Golf GTI Black Edition features a dark exterior aesthetic inspired by the ‘Stealth’ concept.

In addition to the Deep Black color, the Golf GTI Black Edition is also available in Kings Red.

Key features include 18-inch Richmond alloy wheels, dynamic GTI hub caps, GTI valve caps, a BLACK logo, and black finishing on the front lip, rear diffuser, side skirts, and side mirrors.

Furthermore, the VW Golf GTI Black Edition comes with Volkswagen Tint heat-reflective film that complies with JPJ standards.

Inside the cabin, the Golf GTI Black Edition is equipped with Black Edition floor mats, Cargo Elements (with Velcro stickers), and a UTR2.0 dashcam.

Every owner will receive a special Black Edition box containing a Volkswagen key holder and a Certificate of Authenticity.

In terms of specifications, the VW Golf GTI Black Edition retains the 2.0-liter turbo engine (code EA888) capable of producing 245 PS and 370 Nm of torque.

Paired with a seven-speed DSG gearbox, it accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 6.3 seconds.

The retail price of the VW Golf GTI Black Edition is now as low as RM243,990, which comes complete with the Volkswagen Assurance Package (VAP), featuring a seven-year free maintenance package, unlimited mileage warranty, and five years of complimentary roadside assistance.

The VW Golf GTI Black Edition will be showcased at the Volkswagen booth during the Malaysia Autoshow 2025 at MAEPS Serdang from May 9 to May 15, 2025.

VW Malaysia launches Arteon, Tiguan Allspace Wolfsburg Edition – priced from RM180,990

Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM) has introduced three Wolfsburg edition models for the local market: the Arteon R-Line, Tiguan Allspace Elegance, and Tiguan Allspace R-Line.

All three models feature special details, such as the Wolfsburg logo, Wolfsburg floor mats, an owner’s box with a key holder and certificate of authenticity, as well as VW-branded valve caps.

Additionally, they include a Volkswagen Universal Traffic Recorder (UTR 2.0) camera at the front and rear.

The Arteon R-Line sedan comes with added features including:

  • VW LED logo light accents
  • Dynamic VW wheel caps
  • Rear door protective strip
  • Cargo Elements complete with Velcro stickers

Meanwhile, the Tiguan models are equipped with accessories such as:

  • Load edge protectors
  • Boot tray
  • Hooks and smartphone holders
  • Aluminum sport pedals (for the Elegance model)
  • Bumper corner protectors

All of these Wolfsburg edition models come with a complimentary seven-year maintenance package, as well as unlimited mileage warranty and roadside assistance for five years, as part of the Volkswagen Assurance Package (VAP).

The promotional selling prices (including VAP) are as follows:

  • Tiguan Allspace Elegance – RM180,990
  • Tiguan Allspace R-Line – RM243,990
  • Arteon R-Line – RM264,990

All three models will be showcased at the Malaysia Autoshow 2025, held at MAEPS, Serdang from May 9 to May 15, 2025.

Lotus Emira Clark Edition – a tribute to the great F1 driver of the 60s

Jim Clark is recognized as one of the greatest Formula One drivers in history.

In a gesture of appreciation for this remarkable individual, Lotus is now offering a limited edition sports car, the Emira Clark Edition.

The exterior design of the Emira is inspired by the Lotus Type 38 race car, featuring the distinctive Clark Racing Green along with yellow stripes.

This car is also adorned with a black roof, silver side mirror housing, and yellow exhaust tips.

Additionally, it includes a blue fuel cap and a Clark Edition badge on the door sill.

The cabin of the Emira is enhanced with a two-tone black and red color scheme, reminiscent of the theme used in the Team Lotus cars of the 1960s.

Beyond the elements paying homage to Jim Clark, the Lotus Emira Clark Edition also embraces a classic theme through its manual gear knob made of wood.

The Lotus Emira Clark Edition is based on the Emira V6 model, equipped with a Toyota V6 engine capable of generating 400 hp and 420 Nm of torque, paired with a manual transmission.

Production of this limited edition Emira will be restricted to just 60 units and will only be available in select markets.

For your information, the starting retail price of the Lotus Emira Clark Edition is £115,000 (RM647,342) in the UK market.

GR86 one-make race is set to shake up Sepang this June

This June will witness the debut of the GR86 Cup Malaysia Series, featuring Toyota GR86 sports cars.

Organized by Haro Sports and Entertainment Sdn Bhd, the GR86 Cup Malaysia Series will make its inaugural appearance as a support race during the third round of the Super GT 2025, which will take place from June 26 to 28.

A total of 30 Toyota GR86 Cup vehicles will compete in three race rounds scheduled for this year.

The second round of the GR86 Cup will be held concurrently with the 300 km endurance race of the Malaysia Championship Series, followed by the final round, which will consist of 86 laps. All three rounds of the GR86 Cup will be held at the Sepang Circuit.

Only 30 units of the GR86 Cup will be imported from Japan (available on a first-come, first-served basis), with all units built in accordance with the SP1 category regulations of the Malaysia Championship Series 2025.

Each unit is priced at RM208,315, including sales tax and motorsport AP.

Here are the specifications of the Toyota GR86 Cup racing vehicle that will be used in the race:

– 2.4-liter boxer engine
– 228 hp @ 7,000 rpm, Torque: 250 Nm @ 3,700 rpm
– Six-speed manual transmission


– Full Fujitsubo exhaust system
– Torsen limited-slip differential (LSD)
– Cusco single-plate clutch
– Transmission cooling system


– Advics four-piston aluminum brake calipers at the front, two-piston calipers at the rear
– Two-piece brake rotors: 345 x 30 mm at the front, 330 x 26 mm at the rear
– KW Racing race shock absorbers
– TRD suspension bushings
– Bridgestone Potenza RE-71RS 225/45R17 tires
– Raxer RP10X 17-inch forged alloy wheels


– Custom-designed safety cage, compliant with JAF “Speed B” and “Speed SA” standards
– Bride ZETA bucket seats
– Six-point safety harness compatible with HANS equipment
– Fire extinguishing system

For more information, please contact the following:

Fahrizal Hasan (fahrizal@haro.my) – 012-905 9619
Raja Zaini (raja@haro.my) – 019-367 5667
Yamin Shafie (yamin@haro.my) – 012-615 1650

2025 Honda ADV160 with three new colours, price starting from RM13,249

Boon Siew Honda has announced the availability of new colours for fans of the Honda ADV160 2025 adventure scooter.

The standard version, priced at RM13,249, now offers two new colours: matte black and red, in addition to the existing white option.

Meanwhile, the special edition is priced at RM13,549 and features a popular gray colour alongside the available matte green.

There are no changes in specifications, as the Honda ADV160 retains its single-cylinder Enhanced Smart Power Plus (eSP+) 157 cc engine, producing 15.8 hp and 14.7 Nm of torque.

Notable features include full LED lighting, an Idling Stop System (ISS), a 30-liter storage compartment, an LCD meter display, an adjustable windscreen, and a smart key system.

The Honda ADV160 is equipped with an 8.1-liter fuel tank and has a seat height of 780 mm.

Safety features include an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC), and an Emergency Stop Signal (ESS).

The Honda ADV160 in its new colours will be available at all Impian X showrooms and authorized Honda dealers nationwide starting May 8, 2025.

Perodua Myvi, Yamaha 135LC most involved in accidents last year

In addition to being crowned the King of the Road, the Perodua Myvi has also been reported as the model most involved in road accidents throughout 2024, according to NST newspaper.

The coordinator of the Malaysian Vehicle Theft and Accident Reduction Council (VTAREC), Mas Tina Abdul Hamid, stated that records from the insurance industry show that there were a total of 24,628 claims made last year involving the B-segment hatchback.

The second place was held by the Proton Saga with a total of 16,159 claims, followed by the Honda City (13,388), Toyota Vios (13,007), and Perodua Bezza (12,437).

Meanwhile, the Yamaha 135LC tops the list as the motorcycle model most frequently involved in accidents with nearly 3,000 cases, followed by the Yamaha Y15ZR (2,154).

She explained that both motorcycle models accounted for 30 percent of the total number of motorcycle accidents last year.

The country recorded a total of 266,716 accidents last year, with the highest percentage contributed by cars, accounting for 229,739 cases, followed by commercial vehicles with 22,828 cases, and motorcycles with 15,149 cases.

Proton e.MAS 7 debuts in Singapore with prices starting from RM565k

After more than a decade, Proton has made its long-awaited return to the neighboring market of Singapore with the launch of the Proton e.MAS 7 electric vehicle (EV), managed by the new distributor VINCAR Group.

This best-selling EV in Malaysia was officially launched at The Car Expo 2025, which recently took place.

According to Proton’s Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Li Chunrong, “The launch of the Proton e.MAS 7 in Singapore marks an important step in expanding our international market, as well as our commitment to introducing high-quality and advanced EVs to this region.”

“We are confident that the e.MAS 7, with its attractive features and suitability for urban environments, will receive a positive response from Singaporean drivers who are increasingly prioritizing electric mobility,” he explained.

Proton’s return to Singapore aligns with the country’s rapid transition towards green mobility.

The Singapore EV market is reported to have seen a consistent increase from 12 percent in 2022 to 18 percent in 2023, with a target of reaching 55 percent by 2027.

The Singaporean government also aims to provide up to 12,000 EV charging points in 2,000 Housing and Development Board (HDB) parking areas by the end of this year, and 60,000 by 2030.

In Singapore, the Proton e.MAS 7 is offered in six attractive color options, including the new color Moyu Black.

Based on the supplied images, the Proton e.MAS 7 for this market resembles the Prime variant sold in Malaysia, featuring 18-inch wheels (compared to the 19-inch wheels for the Premium variant).

Other features include a 15.4-inch touchscreen, Flyme Auto audio system, and full LED lighting.

The Proton e.MAS 7 is priced starting from S$173,988 (approximately RM565,429).

Omoda & Jaecoo reach 500,000 users in just two years

Launched at Auto Shanghai 2023, the young brands Omoda and Jaecoo have successfully gained the trust of over 500,000 users worldwide with their lineup of crossover designs that have captivated the lifestyle segment.

This is an impressive achievement for a brand that has only been established for two years.

In addition, the brand has successfully entered 42 countries with more than 1,300 showrooms established globally, as well as garnering over seven million followers across various digital platforms.

Moving forward, Omoda and Jaecoo will focus on the Super Hybrid System (SHS) technology spearheaded by the Jaecoo J7 PHEV.

With a combination of a fifth-generation 1.5TGDI DHE (Dedicated Hybrid Engine) and a hybrid DHT transmission, SHS can offer a total range of up to 1,200 kilometers.

The efficiency of SHS has been proven through several long-distance driving tests previously conducted across three countries (Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand), achieving a record of 1,427.5 kilometers; in the Philippines with 1,488.8 kilometers; and in Mexico with 1,613.1 kilometers.

 

In conjunction with their second anniversary, Omoda and Jaecoo also unveiled several new models, including the Omoda C7 and Omoda C3, at Auto Shanghai 2025.

Here are some quick info of both models:

 

Omoda C7

– C-segment SUV
– Larger dimensions than the Omoda 5, yet smaller than the Omoda C9
– Shares the same Super Hybrid System (SHS) powertrain used in the Jaecoo J7 PHEV
– 1.5-liter turbo engine (156 PS/220 Nm) paired with an electric motor (204 PS/310 Nm)
– Total power output of 360 PS/530 Nm
– Overall range of up to 1,475 kilometers
– 15.6-inch infotainment screen that can be repositioned

 

Omoda C3

– B-segment SUV
– Futuristic spaceship-inspired design and body geometry
– ‘Starship Cockpit’ cabin design
– Set to be launched globally in October 2025

PETRONAS Lubricants, Glide Technology form partnership to distribute premium insulating oil

PETRONAS Lubricants International (PLI) and local lubricant manufacturer Glide Technology Sdn Bhd have signed a partnership agreement for the distribution of premium insulating oil.

The insulating oil, marketed under the PETRONAS Tranol Glide brand, will play a crucial role in the operation of transformers, which are core components of electrical substations.

Glide operates a production facility located in Shah Alam, Selangor, and serves as a supplier to utility companies and transformer manufacturers.

Through this partnership with PLI, Glide will manufacture Tranol Glide insulating oil at its facility for distribution within the country.

According to Khalil Muri, the Managing Director and Group CEO of PLI, “The expertise and capability of PETRONAS Lubricants International, proven in providing industrial solutions and high-quality products, will enable us to support the growth of the country’s industrial sector, which has been on an upward trajectory for several decades.”

“The PETRONAS Tranol Glide range is engineered to maintain and enhance the performance of energy systems to support this growth.”

Audi Malaysia begins production of the Q7 SUV in Pekan

Audi Malaysia has recently started the assembly process for the Audi Q7 SUV model at its factory in Pekan, Pahang.

This means that the Audi Q7 is the only Audi model that is assembled locally for the Malaysian market and the Southeast Asian region.

According to Dr. Susanne Lehmann, Managing Director of Volkswagen Group Malaysia, “This achievement is not just about the launch; it symbolizes vision, partnership, innovation, and progress.”

“Customers will continue to enjoy the same experience of quality, performance, and luxury that Audi is known for—now made in Malaysia,” she added.

In addition to the Q7 model, the Pekan factory is also expected to assemble other Audi models, with a production capacity of around 5,000 units per year.

Over RM12 million in initial investment has been made to realize this vision, further strengthening Audi’s presence in the premium luxury vehicle segment in Malaysia.

Meanwhile, Denyu Bostandzhiev, Managing Director of PHS Automotive Malaysia, stated, “By assembling several key vehicles here, we can offer more competitive pricing and shorten delivery times for our customers.”

“With the increasing demand for D-segment SUVs, we believe this is the perfect time to add the locally assembled Q7 to our model lineup,” he explained.

The 2025 Audi Q7 is expected to be offered in the S line variant, with an estimated retail price ranging from RM469,000 to RM489,000.

It is a mild hybrid electric vehicle (MHEV) powered by a 3.0-liter V6 TFSI engine that produces 340 PS and 500 Nm of torque, paired with an 8-speed Tiptronic transmission and quattro all-wheel drive system.

Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h is achieved in just 5.6 seconds, before reaching a top speed of 250 km/h.