All posts by Hanif Su'ib

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

You can now own the only U.S. Presidential limousine

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Did you know that no armored vehicle specifically built for the President of the United States has ever been offered or sold to the public?

However, if you are interested, you can bid on one of three original 1996 Cadillac Fleetwood Brougham sedans that were originally built for the official use of President Bill Clinton through the Mecum Auctions website.

Unlike the Fleetwood models made for public use, this Fleetwood Brougham has been extended to a length of 6,858 mm, with a wheelbase of 4,255 mm.

Additionally, it has a roof height that is 76 mm taller compared to mass-produced models, designed to maximize viewing space so that the public can see the President during parades.

For the safety of the President, this lengthy sedan is equipped with 76 mm thick glass windows and B6 level armor protection that can withstand attacks from R1 rifles and AK-47s.

It also includes an oxygen supply system, separate climate control for the front and rear compartments, a fire suppression system, and a communication system designed specifically for presidential use.

Fitted with various features including a VHS player, a cathode-ray tube monitor (!), and installed armor protection, this sedan weighs a staggering 4.1 tons—significantly heavier than a standard Fleetwood Brougham sedan, which weighs about 2 tons.

To power this heavy sedan, GM has installed a 7.8-liter V8 engine developed by Jack Roush, producing around 450 hp.

With only 849 km on the odometer, this sedan has rarely been used for official presidential duties compared to the other two sedans, which are now securely stored in a museum.

No price tag has been disclosed at this time, but it is certain that you will need a considerable sum for a sedan that is already three decades old.

According to the description on the Mecum Auctions website, the construction cost for all three sedans reached $6,000,000 (RM26.9 million), a value recorded in the year this sedan was built (1996).

EV, NEWS

Hyundai Creta Electric debuts in India, 0-100 km/h in 7.9 Seconds, range up to 473 km

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Hyundai India is set to launch an all-electric SUV, the Creta Electric, for the local market.

In terms of appearance, the 2025 Creta Electric showcases a different design compared to its internal combustion engine (ICE) counterpart.

A significant change is evident in the front, featuring a layered grille adorned with pixel patterns, more stylish LED daytime running lights, and headlamps integrated into the ends of the bumper.

At the rear, the previous layered light design has been replaced with a more modern lighting layout.

The side profile of the Creta Electric seems to retain elements from the internal combustion engine version, but it is enhanced with a newly designed 17-inch aerodynamic rim.

Inside the cabin, the Creta Electric is equipped with a new steering wheel, a gear shift lever borrowed from the Ioniq 5 model, a drive mode switch knob (Eco, Normal, Sport), and twin 10.25-inch digital display panels.

The Creta Electric also supports Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) functionality, featuring a power socket beneath the rear seats that can be used for charging electronic devices.

In addition to the existing storage space, owners can store the charging cable in the frunk.

Hyundai has not disclosed detailed specifications for the electric motor of this SUV but has confirmed an acceleration of 0-100 km/h in just 7.9 seconds.

There are two battery pack capacity options: 42 kWh with a range of 390 km, or 51.4 kWh offering a range of 473 km (based on ARAI cycle data).

The Creta Electric also supports 11 kW AC charging, allowing for a full charge in approximately four hours, and DC fast charging, which enables the battery to charge from 10 to 80 percent in 58 minutes.

The Hyundai Creta Electric will be officially launched at the Bharat Mobility Show on January 17.

NEWS

Zontes 368G ADV officially launched, selling price RM28,800

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Zontes Malaysia has officially launched the Zontes 368G ADV adventure scooter for the Malaysian market today.

According to the specifications, the Zontes 368G ADV is powered by a single-cylinder liquid-cooled SOHC engine that produces 38 hp at 7,500 rpm and 40 Nm of torque at 6,000 rpm, with two modes available: Eco and Sport.

Ride quality is enhanced by a 41 mm inverted front fork suspension with adjustable compression/rebound, twin shock absorbers at the rear with preload adjustment, and J.Juan braking system.

It is also equipped with a two-channel ABS system, traction control, and a tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) as standard features.

This adventure scooter boasts a fuel tank capacity of 17.5 liters, offering a riding range of up to 500 km and a fuel consumption rate of approximately 3.5 liters per 100 km.

In addition, there is a 52-liter storage space under the seat that can accommodate two full-face helmets, an adjustable five-position windscreen, and a seat height of 795 mm (or 770 mm for the lower version).

All essential information and additional function settings can be accessed via an eight-inch TFT display that can be connected to smart devices through the Zontes Intelligent app.

Interestingly, Zontes also offers several standard accessories for the 368G ADV model.

For example, there are crash bars and handguards on the handlebars, as well as fog lights with multiple beam settings that enhance the stylish image of this ADV scooter.

For rider comfort, the 368G is also equipped with handlebar grip heating functionality, which is very useful during winter or rainy journeys.

Lastly, there is a front and rear dashcam, utilizing Sony Starvis sensors capable of recording HD 1080p video and featuring 128 GB of storage.

The selling price of the Zontes 368G ADV starts at RM28,800 on the road, excluding insurance and road tax. There are three attractive color options: Iron Grey/Blue, White/Gold, and Golden Stone Green.

NEWS

Honda NT1100 Police now available in the United States

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Honda USA has begun offering the Honda NT1100 Police, a two-wheeled patrol vehicle intended for law enforcement agencies, which can now be ordered through the Powersports Fleet/Government Purchase program.

Built on the NT1100 sports touring model also available in the European market, the Honda NT1100 Police comes equipped with features such as protective bodywork, an adjustable windscreen, a comfortable seat, and LED lighting systems.

The NT1100 Police can also be outfitted with a variety of accessories specifically designed for police work, available through authorized vendors.

Among these accessories are pannier bags, a special wiring system, document storage boxes, and a rear seat cover.

The Honda NT1100 Police is powered by a 1,084 cc parallel-twin engine, the same as that used in the Africa Twin model, but has been modified to reach speeds of up to 200 km/h.

The engine produces 101 hp at 8,500 rpm and 104 Nm of torque at 6,000 rpm, which is transmitted to the rear wheel via a six-speed manual transmission.

The suspension system consists of 43 mm inverted Showa telescopic forks, complemented by a single Pro-Link Showa shock absorber, each offering a wheel travel distance of 139.7 mm.

For stopping power, the bike features dual-piston calipers and 310 mm twin rotors at the front, along with a single-piston caliper and 256 mm rotor at the rear, supported by a two-channel ABS braking system.

Weighing in at approximately 256.7 kg, the NT1100 Police has a fuel tank capacity of 20.4 liters and a seat height of about 820 mm.

VIRAL, NEWS

‘Geng basikal lajak’ got squats punishment

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A video on social media has gone viral showing a group of teenagers being punished with squats by traffic police officers, according to New Strait Times.

In the video, more than 20 male teenagers, believed to be underage, are seen performing the punishment while being observed by several traffic police officers.

The exact location of the incident is unclear, but it is believed to have taken place in the capital city, based on the background in the video.

The teenagers were allegedly detained for riding basikal lajak (modified bicycles), and a row of basikal lajak can be seen lined up behind them.

This rare situation also attracted the attention of nearby bystanders, who watched and recorded the moment.

During the New Year’s eve celebration in the capital city last night, the Kuala Lumpur Traffic Investigation and Enforcement Department (JSPT) conducted operations and monitoring around the capital until early morning.

The operations were carried out to combat illegal racing, road bullies, and activities that violate the law.

 

@buletintv3 Geng Basikal Lajak Didenda Ketuk Ketampi #BuletinTV3 #buletintv3 #lajak #basikal ♬ original sound – BuletinTV3
NEWS

Landc Roomy: A minivan transformed into a ‘Land Cruiser’

If you find the Toyota Land Cruiser (and Prado) too large to fit in your garage, worry not, as ESB Style now brings elements of this off-road SUV to the Toyota Roomy minivan.

The package, dubbed ‘Landc Roomy,’ borrows several design features from the Land Cruiser, such as a large, wide grille complemented by an aggressive bumper.

Due to spatial limitations, it is somewhat challenging to incorporate all of the Land Cruiser’s elements into this minivan. Therefore, ESB Style has restricted the modifications to the front end, while the rear bumper still receives a sporty touch, accompanied by white steel rims wrapped in Toyo Open Country R/T tires.

Additionally, the suspension system has been raised by 30 mm to enable the ‘Landc Roomy’ to tackle light off-road trails more easily.

Inside the cabin, ESB Style offers accessories like a foldable “Fox Mat,” which allows the Roomy’s cabin space to be transformed into a camping van.

Here is a list of accessory prices offered by ESB Style for your reference:

  • Front Bumper – ¥100,000 (RM2,848)
  • Rear Bumper – ¥60,000 (RM1,709)
  • Suspension Kit – ¥50,000 (RM1,424)
  • Set of Steel Rims – ¥60,000 (RM1,709)
  • Fox Mat – ¥25,000 (RM712)

In Japan, the Toyota Roomy is not classified as a kei van, as it comes with larger dimensions and is powered by a three-cylinder inline engine of 996 cc capable of producing up to 98 PS.

The naturally aspirated version only generates a power output of 69 PS, but you can opt for the Toyota Roomy (or Daihatsu Thor/Subaru Justy) with either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive (AWD).

EV, NEWS

This Sunshine EV is a versatile kei van from China

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At first glance, this may be the latest kei van model to come from the Japanese market. However, don’t be deceived by the logo displayed, as it tells all — this is a light commercial vehicle (LCV) produced by SAIC-GM-Wuling.

Focusing on practicality and affordability, the Sunshine EV undeniably draws inspiration from the Japanese kei van lineup, featuring a short front end, small wheels, sliding doors on both the left and right, and tall body dimensions.

When compared by size dimensions, the Sunshine EV is roughly bigger than Japanese kei vans, measuring 3,685 mm in length, 1,530 mm in width, 1,750 mm in height, and with a wheelbase of 2,600 mm.

In its five-seat configuration, the Sunshine EV can offer a cargo space of 527 liters or up to 1,117 liters when the second-row seats are folded flat.

For the cabin space, it provides very basic equipment but emphasizes practicality and versatility for various uses.

Based on the supplied images, this compact van can be transformed into various types of mobile shops, used as a camper van, or converted into a mini workshop complete with professional tools.

In terms of power, this EV features a single electric motor that produces 40 hp with a top speed of around 100 km/h.

Buyers will have the option of a 17.6 kWh battery pack or a 26.5 kWh capacity option that can be swapped through the CATL battery swapping network.

The Sunshine EV is set to be launched in the Chinese market as early as 2025, with a selling price starting at around 50,000 yuan (RM30,580).

NEWS

DAMD Reverb creating an identity crisis for the Honda WR-V

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Are you bored with the standard appearance of the Honda WR-V?

If an identity crisis is what you’re looking for, worry not, as this Japanese tuning company is indeed an expert in transforming the looks of standard models into something much more distinctive.

DAMD will showcase several interesting models at the 2025 Tokyo Auto Salon.

One of them is the Reverb, a Honda WR-V (also known as Honda Elevate) that has been redesigned to resemble a Jeep Cherokee XJ.

The front end of the Honda WR-V has been completely altered, featuring rectangular headlights and a six-slot grille that reminds us of the classic Cherokee model.

Additionally, the sides of this SUV have been adorned with decals that mimic wood paneling found on vintage American station wagons, followed by unpainted plastic wheel arch cladding.

Completing this stylish image is a set of black steel rims wrapped in BFGoodrich mud-terrain tires.

In addition to the WR-V, DAMD will also present the following models:

1. Stuart – A Toyota Sienta with a front design reminiscent of a Mini Cooper
2. Rodney – A sportier version of the Honda N-Box Custom
3. Lucky – A Daihatsu Taft that resembles the 90s Daihatsu Rocky F300

NEWS

When a Lamborghini Miura gets the Liberty Walk treatment….

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What happens when the world’s most beautiful supercar receives a magical touch from Liberty Walk?

You don’t even need to imagine the outcome, as the renowned Japanese tuner has already unveiled computer-generated images of their latest work on the Lamborghini Miura.

Set to be officially revealed at the Tokyo Auto Salon 2025, the LB-Silhouette Works GT Lamborghini Miura boasts a more aggressive and daring appearance.

You can see the aggressive body kit paired with wide fender flares, as well as aftermarket rims on all four corners of the wheel arches.

Not to be overlooked, there is a large rear wing and an aggressive diffuser, all finished in white with sponsor liveries and the red Liberty Walk logo on the side.

At this time, Liberty Walk has not disclosed any modifications made to the original 4.0-liter V12 engine, which produces 345 hp and 355 Nm of torque in this Miura.

The special body kit for the Lamborghini Miura will officially go on sale next year, and rest assured, it won’t come at a price as low as you might expect.

NEWS

RTD issued 5,306 offence notices during ‘Ops Khas Gempur Teknikal’

The Road Transport Department (JPJ) issued 5,306 offence notices after inspecting 17,729 commercial and public service vehicles during a five-day Special Technical Raid Operation that concluded today, according to Bernama.

Transport Ministry (MoT) secretary-general Datuk Jana Santhiran Muniayan said the notices involved vehicle detentions, inspection orders and for questioning.

“Additionally, out of this total, action was taken against 1,787 vehicles, with 16 seized, 15 of which were commercial and a public service vehicle.

“JPJ is not out to find faults by issuing notices; we only aim to ensure road safety and optimal road conditions. Notices are not issued arbitrarily,” he told reporters during the Special Technical Raid Operation at the Seremban Southbound Rest and Service Area (RnR) today.

He said a recurring issue with commercial vehicles, such as lorries and trailers, is using unsuitable or retreaded tyres on the road.

He said this issue is a key operation focus, ensuring brakes and tyres are in proper condition. Vehicles will be stopped from continuing their journey if violations are found.

“During checks earlier, we observed several vehicles using retreaded tyres with the outer layer nearly peeling off. Suppose these come off while on the road, it could pose significant danger to road users. This is precisely the situation we aim to prevent,” he said.

Meanwhile, Jana Santhiran said that JPJ has deployed over 1,500 personnel nationwide to strengthen enforcement of trade-related offences, including overloading, technical issues, documentation and traffic violations, particularly during festive seasons.

“We have increased the number of personnel. Previously, it was fewer than 1,000 officers, but now we have deployed them to highways, urban roads, and other areas, especially during festive periods,” he said.

He also advised all heavy vehicle drivers to place cones or road barriers when their vehicles stop in emergency lanes due to breakdowns to signal other road users.

“Recently, there have been several accidents caused by lorry drivers failing to use cones or place them behind their vehicles to indicate an emergency stop. I hope everyone pays full attention to road safety regulations,” he said.

EV, NEWS

Proton e.MAS 7 records over 2,500 orders

Pro-Net has announced that the Proton e.MAS 7 electric vehicle has received over 2,500 orders since reservations for the electric segment C SUV opened at the end of October.

According to Zhang Qiang, the CEO of Pro-Net, “The enthusiasm shown by Malaysians for the Proton e.MAS 7 reflects their readiness to embrace sustainable mobility.”

“With a combination of innovative features and exceptional value, the Proton e.MAS 7 is designed to be the ideal choice for those looking to transition to electric vehicles.”

The Proton e.MAS 7 is available in two main variants: the Prime, which features a 49.52 kWh battery offering a driving range of 345 km, and the Premium variant with a 60.22 kWh battery pack that provides a driving range of up to 410 km.

Specially for the first 3,000 customers, Proton offers a rebate of RM4,000, along with a special package that includes:

  • Power Home: 7 kW home charger (valued at RM1,500)
  • Power Plus: V2L adapter (valued at RM500)
  • Power Online: 5-year internet data package (valued at RM1,800)
  • Power Thru: Unlimited vehicle warranty for 6 years, and a warranty of 8 years or 160,000 km for the battery and high-voltage components.
  • Power Financing: Interest rate of 1.98% from Proton Commerce (up to RM3,000)
  • Power Exchange: Exclusive rebate of RM1,200 for the exchange program for current Proton owners.

Malaysians living around Shah Alam who are interested in viewing the Proton e.MAS 7 can visit the Proton e.MAS showroom located at the Ideal Convention Centre (IDCC) in Shah Alam.

Operated by SG Cars Sdn Bhd, it is the first distribution center for Proton’s new energy vehicle (NEV) brand.

It is reported that 37 dealers have been appointed nationwide, with 30 expected to be fully operational by the end of this year.

This expansion effort has been bolstered by a knowledge-sharing R&D visit to the Geely Research Institute in Hangzhou, China, attended recently by more than 40 principal dealers and executives.

During the visit, participants were introduced to Geely’s latest technology and gained valuable insights into premium EV maintenance, staff training, sales strategies, and operational excellence.

Pro-Net is also seeking partners interested in joining the expanding Proton e.MAS dealer network.

NEWS

Mandatory periodic inspections for heavy vehicles by Puspakom, stricter actions required – NIOSH

The National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) has called for the mandatory use of advanced monitoring technologies, such as the Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) and telematics, in all heavy vehicles to detect mechanical issues promptly.

Its vice-chairman Manivanan Gowin said that these technologies could provide an early warning of potential damage that might endanger lives.

“It’s time for us to utilise technological advancements to improve road safety,” he said in a statement today in response to the tragic crash at KM 204 northbound of the North-South Expressway (PLUS) in Melaka that resulted in seven fatalities, including five family members.

Manivanan said that the incident had uncovered a major weakness in the safety system of heavy vehicles on the road, calling for immediate action and stricter enforcement, and urged all stakeholders to take significant measures to prevent future tragedies.

He said that for this purpose, government agencies, transport operators, local authorities, and non-governmental organisations needed to work together in developing a long-term strategic plan for road safety.

Manivanan said that NIOSH was willing to offer its highly skilled experts to assist the relevant authorities and agencies in identifying safety issues and finding more effective and long-term solutions.

“This team is ready to carry out technical analysis and investigation of the cause of the accident, as well as propose accurate and appropriate improvement measures.

“NIOSH also offers prudent driving courses and ISO Traffic Management-related training aimed at increasing driver awareness as well as assisting organisations in complying with relevant international safety standards.

“These programmes are a proactive effort to reduce accidents involving heavy vehicles,” he said.

NIOSH also suggested that transport operators implement a more comprehensive continuous safety training programme, especially for lorry and bus drivers, which should include in-depth knowledge of prudent driving, understanding of road laws, and the strict application of safety principles.

Manivanan said that accidents could be reduced through heightened awareness and discipline.

He also urged the Road Transport Department (JPJ) to ramp up enforcement and take stern action, including heavy fines, against heavy vehicles failing to comply with safety standards.

“This includes ensuring that all vehicles undergo regular inspections at the Computerised Vehicle Inspection Centre (PUSPAKOM). Regular and thorough monitoring is crucial to prevent unsafe vehicles from being on the road,” he said.

NEWS

Ineos builds one-off Grenadier Quartermaster Kaiju

The Ineos Grenadier Quartermaster Kaiju can be likened to a mobile accessories catalog.

This pickup truck, which is packed with a variety of off-road accessories, serves as a guide for modifications.

Produced exclusively by Ineos Australia, the Grenadier Quartermaster Kaiju (which means “monster” in Japanese) will be used for various promotional events across the country in the coming months.

Several major accessory companies have participated in outfitting this pickup truck.

For instance, Norweld has created a lightweight aluminum canopy structure for the back, along with a 40-liter water tank, storage drawers, a 130-liter Bushman fridge, and holders for jerry cans.

Recarc has installed a 2,000W inverter unit and a 150 Ah lithium battery that can last for over 5,000 charge cycles.

All four corners of the vehicle are fitted with BFGoodrich KM3 mud terrain tires, complemented by a custom suspension system that includes remote reservoir electric shocks from JMACX.

In addition to the ambient lighting system, Ineos has also ensured that a 168-liter fuel tank is installed on this pickup truck.

Lastly, Ineos offers several accessories of its own, such as a bull bar, rock sliders, a snorkel, an additional battery, and, of course, access steps.

EV, NEWS

Firefly: an urban EV with iPhone-like lens lights

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Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer Nio has launched a new brand to compete with luxury compact electric vehicle brands such as Smart and Mini.

The new brand is named Firefly, which is set to be positioned between Nio’s own brand and Onvo in terms of size, features, and pricing.

The first model to hit the market in Europe, Latin America, and Southeast Asia will be a hatchback designed with elements reminiscent of the now-discontinued Honda e.

Designed by former BMW and Ford designer Kris Tomasson, the Firefly hatchback features a unique design element: its LED headlights and taillights resemble the lens of an iPhone camera.

Other notable features include flush door handles, cute six-spoke wheels, and body cladding made from sustainable materials.

This urban EV offers a front cargo space of 92 liters with a water drainage function, and the rear cargo area can expand to 1,250 liters when the second-row seats are folded flat.

While the overall dimensions of the Firefly hatchback have not yet been disclosed, it is likely to be similar in size to models like the BYD Dolphin and Renault 5, with a turning radius of 9.4 meters.

Nio also claims that this EV has been designed to achieve a five-star rating in Euro NCAP and C-NCAP tests, featuring safety measures that include nine airbags as standard equipment.

The use of aluminum and high-strength steel, constituting 83.4 percent of the vehicle’s structural body, along with dual impact beams in the front doors, contributes to a top-tier torsional rigidity figure in its class (35,700 Nm).

Currently, the specifications for the Firefly’s battery and electric motor have not been revealed, but Nio has indicated that the Firefly will support battery swapping functionality.

In the Chinese market, the Firefly can be pre-ordered starting at 148,800 yuan (approximately RM91,085).

By the end of 2025, Nio aims to have the Firefly brand established in 25 countries.

EV

RM14,000 difference between e.MAS 7 Prime and e.MAS 7 Premium

The launch of Proton’s first electric SUV, the e.MAS 7, took place last week.

Despite being teased for a long time on social media, the e.MAS 7 remains a hot topic of discussion among netizens even now.

Opinions are varied, with some expressing positive thoughts while others share negative feedback.

For those contemplating whether to choose the more affordable Prime variant or the more fully-featured Premium variant, we are here to help.

With a price difference of approximately RM14,000, here are five key differences between the Proton e.MAS 7 Prime and e.MAS 7 Premium:

 

1. Battery Capacity

Both variants are equipped with an electric motor producing 215 hp and 320 Nm of torque, allowing for a 0-100 km/h acceleration in about 6.9 seconds.

However, the e.MAS 7 Prime is fitted with a short-blade Aegis LFP (Lithium Iron Phosphate) battery pack with a capacity of 49.52 kWh for a driving range of 345 km, while the e.MAS 7 Premium comes with a 60.22 kWh battery pack, providing a range of 410 km.

 

2. Charging Capability

For the smaller battery, the e.MAS 7 supports DC fast charging up to 80 kW, while the e.MAS 7 Premium can achieve a DC charging capacity of up to 100 kW.

Unfortunately, there appears to be no significant difference in charging times, with both variants recording approximately 20 minutes for DC charging from 30% to 80%.

 

3. Exterior

The e.MAS 7 Prime variant features 18-inch wheels wrapped in 225/55 R18 Giti tires.

In contrast, the e.MAS 7 Premium variant comes equipped with more aggressive 19-inch wheels, fitted with 235/50 R19 Goodyear tires.

Additionally, the e.MAS 7 Premium variant includes several extra features such as a panoramic glass roof, powered tailgate, and an Active Grill Shutter system.

 

4. Cabin Features

The standard features included in the Proton e.MAS 7 are quite extensive.

However, for the Premium model, it includes specific features such as a driver’s seat memory function, adjustable front passenger seat (four-way), front seat ventilation, ambient lighting supporting up to 256 colors, a head-up display, and a sound system with 16 speakers.

 

5. Safety Features

Typically, the lower variant may be lacking in comprehensive safety equipment compared to the premium variant.

However, for the e.MAS 7, both variants are equipped with a comprehensive safety suite that includes advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) Level 2, featuring important functions such as Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB), Forward Collision Warning (FCW), Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA), Lane Departure Warning (LDW), and Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC).

Moreover, the e.MAS 7 is also equipped with a 360-degree surround camera system.

The only minor difference is that the e.MAS 7 Prime variant does not come with front parking sensors.

 

Proton e.MAS 7 Prime & Premium

NEWS

Students from Nissan Automotive College create ‘Z Wagon’ using Stagea Wagon platform

78 Comments

The phrase “sports car” and “practicality” may seem difficult to place in the same sentence.

However, that is precisely what a group of students from Nissan Automotive College aims to achieve for the Tokyo Auto Salon 2025.

The project is named Z Lealia, a combination of the words “Lead” and “Familia,” where Z Lealia is designed as a sports wagon suitable for the entire family.

This sporty wagon does not actually originate from the rear-wheel-drive platform of the Nissan Z; instead, it is entirely based on the second-generation Nissan Stagea wagon platform.

From the front view, we can see the successful integration of the front fascia of the Nissan Z.

However, the work on the rear section of the wagon appears to be lacking, particularly in terms of the excessively wide fender dimensions and the gap existing between the taillights and the rear bumper.

The vehicle is finished in Ikazuchi Yellow, featuring 19-inch aftermarket rims, a steering wheel from the Nissan Z, and a custom two-tone upholstery.

Praise should be given to the college students for their boldness in creating something unique.

In addition to the Z Wagon, there are two other modified models: the Nissan Neo Skyline and the Bluebird Kiwami, produced by two different student groups.

The Nissan Neo Skyline is essentially a Skyline Coupe V35 with custom body panels inspired by the 1970s “Kenmeri” Skyline model.

The entire body is painted in Tomoaki Blue, complemented by 18-inch rims and a two-tone interior finish.

On the other hand, the Bluebird Kiwami (from Aichi College) is built based on the Nissan Bluebird Maxima that existed 36 years ago, featuring a wide, boxy body kit.

At the same time, the student group successfully maintained the original features of the vehicle, including the frameless door design and luxurious interior finishes.

All three customized cars will be officially showcased at the Tokyo Auto Salon 2025, taking place from January 10 to 12 in Japan.

 

NEWS

No second drivers, JPJ issues summonses to 25 express, tour buses

209 Comments

The Road Transport Department (JPJ) issued summonses to 25 express and tour buses for not having a second driver for trips exceeding 300 kilometres (km) or four hours continuously during a special operation at three toll plazas in Penang.

JPJ said the operation started at 10 pm yesterday and ended at 7 am today, and was conducted at both sides of the Juru, Bukit Tambun and Sultan Abdul Halim Muadzam Shah toll plazas.

“JPJ also compounded an express bus as the driver had no driving licences as well as a container lorry as the driver was underaged,” the department said in a Facebook post today.

The department also took action against 23 buses for not having driver’s logbooks or not maintaining them and one for not having a tour guide.

Overall, 273 summonses were issued.

NEWS

Airbus, Rolls-Royce to resolve Malaysia Airlines’ A330neo technical issues

210 Comments

Airbus has pledged full support to Malaysia Airlines as the carrier faces a 48-hour grounding of its new Airbus A330neo (new engine option), following its inaugural flight to Melbourne on Dec 19, according to Bernama.

The aircraft, equipped with Rolls-Royce’s latest engine technology, encountered technical issues shortly after its debut, linked to factory production quality and delivery concerns.

“We are supporting the airline directly to resolve these issues alongside Rolls-Royce,” an Airbus spokesperson told Bernama today.

On Dec 19, Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG), the parent company of Malaysia Airlines, unveiled the first A330-900 (A330neo) aircraft at Hangar Six of the MAB Engineering Complex at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA).

According to news reports, Malaysia Airlines had to cancel flight MH149 to Melbourne on Dec 21 due to technical issues and unsatisfactory factory workmanship, with the aircraft now grounded for repairs.

The A330neo is the latest addition to MAG’s expanding fleet, with 20 units scheduled for delivery by 2028, following a memorandum of understanding signed with Airbus, Rolls-Royce, and Avolon in August 2022.

Powered by Rolls-Royce Trent 7000 engines, the A330neo features cutting-edge aerodynamics and advanced materials, delivering a 14 per cent reduction in fuel consumption and carbon emissions compared to previous-generation aircraft.

MAG currently operates a fleet of 107 aircraft across its subsidiaries, including Malaysia Airlines, Firefly, MASwings and MASkargo.

In addition to the Airbus delays, MAG has also been affected by the postponed delivery of its Boeing 737-8 aircraft this year.

EV, NEWS

Leapmotor unveils C10 REEV variant, 1.5L engine, driving range up to 950 km

212 Comments

Leapmotor has announced a new variant of its electric SUV, the C10, which will be showcased at the Brussels Motor Show 2025, taking place in January.

The C10 REEV (Range-Extended Electric Vehicle) promises the benefits of both electric vehicles and internal combustion engines by offering a longer driving range and good fuel efficiency.

The C10 REEV features a 215 PS electric motor paired with a 28.4 kWh battery pack, which provides a zero-emission driving range of only 145 km.

With the support of a 1.5-liter engine acting as a range extender, the C10 REEV can travel over 950 km on a full tank of fuel, achieving a fuel consumption rate of 0.4 liters per 100 km.

According to Leapmotor, the C10 REEV primarily operates as an electric vehicle initially, but when the battery power decreases, the engine will activate to generate electrical power and recharge the battery.

Owners will also have the option to use a 65 kW DC fast charger, which can extend the range by 72.5 km in just 18 minutes.

More information about the C10 REEV is expected to be revealed at the Brussels Motor Show 2025, scheduled for January 10 to 19, 2025.

NEWS

MX-5 Mazda Spirit Racing to make appearance at 2025 Tokyo Auto Salon

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Only a few weeks remain before the Tokyo Auto Salon opens its doors in Japan next month.

Mazda will showcase several special models at the event, including a limited edition model produced by its high-performance division, Mazda Spirit Racing.

For those unfamiliar, Mazda Spirit Racing has been utilized by the manufacturer since 2021 in Japan’s Super Taikyu Series, designed to take over the role previously held by Mazdaspeed.

Mazda Spirit Racing RS Concept

 

Based on a single image (main picture) provided, the Mazda MX-5 tuned by Mazda Spirit Racing features a new front splitter, an “R” logo on the front grille, black six-spoke wheels, red brake calipers, and a rear lip spoiler.

Additionally, there are red accents on the center of the bumper and on the side mirror housings, as well as a set of racing-inspired decals.

Currently, Mazda has not revealed any details regarding mechanical upgrades for this special model.

In addition to the Mazda MX-5, Mazda will also showcase two racing concept models: the Mazda3 Bio Concept and the MX-5 Roadster CNF Concept, along with the CX-5 SUV, which has been developed in collaboration with Toyo Tires.