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Proton Business Case Study Challenge 2024 Draws 300 University Students

Proton has launched its Business Case Study Challenge, attracting nearly 300 students from six public and private universities in Malaysia as part of its Proton Young Talent (PYT) programme. The challenge encourages participants to solve real-world business problems using data analysis, business judgment, and innovative thinking. Open to university students from the first to final semester, teams must consist of four to six members. The competition aims to expand Proton’s talent pool through the PYT programme, which offers career development opportunities in the automotive sector.

The three-month challenge kicked off in September, with Proton CEO Dr. Li Chunrong delivering a talk on “The Journey of Proton’s Revival” to 150 students at Universiti Teknologi Petronas (UTP). In the latest UTP session, 17 groups participated, with five teams shortlisted for the final presentations. The top three winners received conditional offers to join the PYT programme in 2025.

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BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO3 Tyre Officially Launched in Malaysia

BFGoodrich Malaysia officially introduces the newest addition to its celebrated All-Terrain family, the BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO3 tyre. The brand-new all-terrain tyre made its Malaysian debut at the company’s media launch at Terra, Petaling Jaya.

Building on the outstanding performance of their well-loved BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO2 tyre, BFGoodrich developed the BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO3 tyre to tailor to the evolving needs of adventure-seekers by incorporating the latest innovative tyre technologies into a product that delivers an even stronger performance, providing advanced mobility for all types of terrains. Designed with BFGoodrich’s legacy of off-road excellence in mind, the new tyres will also arrive with revived raised white lettering on the sidewall, highlighting the Baja Champion badge on even more tyre sizes.

The BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO3 tyre outperforms its predecessor, the KO2 tyre in terms of treadwear, toughness and traction – making it a great choice for off-road adventures. Especially in Malaysia where the roads have diverse terrains, ranging from rugged trails to urban landscapes, the BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO3 is engineered to meet the needs for local adventure enthusiasts.

Treadwear: BFGoodrich has engineered the All-Terrain T/A KO3 tyre with a new tread pattern and new all-terrain tread compound to provide durability and longevity, even on gravel. The All-Terrain T/A KO3 tyre has an optimized footprint and full-depth 3D locking sipes designed to evenly distribute stress for uniform wear over the long haul. As a result, the All-Terrain T/A KO3 has an improved mileage and wear performance.

Toughness: Improved CoreGard Technology, as also found on the BFGoodrich Baja T/A KR3, gives the BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO3 tyre excellent sidewall toughness, earning it the Baja Champion badge. This technology extends split and bruise resistant shoulder rubber down the sidewall to provide protection on the critical sidewall failure zone. The Advanced Deflection Design helps prevent objects from snagging and splitting the sidewall – perfect for all-terrain driving.

Traction: Even in the worst conditions, the BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO3 tyre is made to grip in any situation. The All-Terrain T/A KO3 is engineered with full depth 3D locking sipes and serrated shoulder design and Mud-Phobic Bars which are improved upon the KO2 tyre’s outstanding mud and snow traction, helping it earn the Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake severe-snow rating. With interlocking tread elements, the tyre is designed to maximise handling and traction for both on and off-road journeys by stabilising the tread centre. The new All-Terrain tread compound improves wet traction, stopping 4.2M shorter than KO2.

BFGoodrich Malaysia will introduce more than 62 sizes over the next 24 months with 39 sizes being launched in three phases starting September 2024. Additionally, 19 more sizes will be made available in 2025 with the final 4 sizes arriving in 2026 to complete the lineup. The recommended retail pricing for the BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO3 will start from RM825 to RM2946.

Hyundai, Kia and Samsung Join Forces to Develop Next-Gen Infotainment System

Hyundai, Kia, and Samsung have joined forces to create a next-generation infotainment system that will link software-defined vehicles from the automakers with smartphones. This collaboration, alongside Hyundai Motor Group’s global software centre, 42dot, will integrate future Hyundai and Kia models into Samsung’s ‘SmartThings’ ecosystem, allowing vehicle owners to operate smart Samsung devices remotely via an Internet of Things (IoT) platform.

This partnership will enable drivers to control smart home devices, like Samsung air conditioners, wirelessly from their vehicles. Additionally, the ‘SmartThings Find’ feature will allow Hyundai and Kia drivers to track their vehicles using crowdsourced data from millions of Samsung Galaxy devices, enhancing vehicle security. If a vehicle is stolen, this system could help locate it globally.

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Police Call for Public Assistance to Curb ‘Mat Rempit’ Activities

The Kedah police are urging the public to help by photographing modified vehicles and sharing them on social media as part of efforts to combat illegal racing and ‘mat rempit’ activities. Kedah Police Chief Datuk Fisol Salleh highlighted that the issue of illegal racing and street thugs has persisted for a long time and requires collective action to address.

According to Astro Awani, he encouraged the public to take pictures of any suspicious vehicles, including motorcycles, cars and even bicycles, that have been illegally modified, such as those with flat tyres, removed brakes, or upgraded carburettors. The police will then use these images to trace the vehicles to their owners’ homes.

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Ford Ranger XLT Plus Special Edition Launched – RM3,000 Fuel Vouchers for the First 20 Online Buyers

Sime Darby Auto ConneXion (SDAC), the sole distributor for Ford in Malaysia, has introduced the Ford Ranger XLT Plus Special Edition, bringing new upgrades to the popular Ranger lineup. This limited-edition model enhances the rugged appeal and performance of the Ranger, delivering a unique driving experience for pickup truck enthusiasts.

The exterior of the Ranger XLT Plus Special Edition is equipped with bold, practical features such as Matte Black Fender Flares, a Matte Black Sports Bar, and distinctive Matte decals on the sides and hood. Other enhancements include LED Ranger Scuff Plates, a chrome grille, LED headlights, and 17-inch alloy wheels for better versatility across different terrains. Interior conveniences include Pull-out Cup Holders, catering to both drivers and passengers.

This special edition comes in Absolute Black and Meteor Grey, offering a refined and rugged look backed by a parts warranty. Powering the truck is a 2.0L bi-turbo diesel engine that produces 210PS and 500Nm of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. Ford’s Electronic Shift-On-The-Fly (ESOF) system ensures adaptability on highways and tough terrains.

Inside, the truck features a 10.1-inch Multi-Touchscreen Display with Wireless Apple Carplay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, Voice Recognition, dual-zone climate control, and a range of practical features such as a digital instrument cluster and 12V power outlet.

Safety features include Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Roll Over Mitigation, Active Brake System, Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD), and Traction Control System (TCS). Limited to 300 units, the Ford Ranger XLT Plus Special Edition is priced from RM143,888 in Peninsular Malaysia and RM149,388 in Sabah and Sarawak.

To celebrate its launch, SDAC is hosting the Ford Experience Hub at Setia City Mall from 25 to 29 September 2024, offering exclusive launch promotions and RM3,000 fuel vouchers for the first 20 online buyers.

Stay in Your Lane: Experts Warn Against Switching Lanes in Stop-and-Go Traffic

Switching lanes in stop-and-go traffic might seem like a good idea, but experts advise against it. According to safety specialists from Tüv Thüringen, a German technical inspection agency, changing lanes does not save time and can increase the risk of accidents.

Drivers in traffic jams often get distracted, which means they may not notice someone switching lanes until too late, raising the likelihood of rear-end collisions.

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P1 Successor Set to Break Cover: McLaren Teases New Hypercar Reveal

It’s been over a decade since the McLaren P1 debuted, and it seems a successor may finally be on the horizon. McLaren recently released a video highlighting its iconic “1” cars, the F1 and P1, with employees discussing what makes these models legendary. The video concludes with a date and time: October 6th, 1:00 PM British Summer Time, hinting at a potential unveiling, possibly of the long-awaited P1 successor, or at least a teaser.

Earlier this year, McLaren reportedly gave dealers a preview of a new hypercar, code-named P18, which is expected to feature a hybrid V8 powertrain. This new engine, which McLaren confirmed to be in development last year, will replace the twin-turbo V8 that has powered the brand’s models since 2011’s MP4-12C. Alongside this new engine, the P1 successor will introduce a fresh design language.

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BMW Malaysia Showcases Latest Generation 5 Series – 520i M Sport and i5 eDrive40 M Sport

BMW Group Malaysia recently showcased its latest-generation BMW 5 Series at the SKY5PACE event in Kuala Lumpur, highlighting the brand’s legacy and innovations in the premium executive sedan segment. The event featured both the locally assembled BMW 520i M Sport and the fully electric BMW i5 eDrive40 M Sport, underscoring BMW’s commitment to Malaysia and its future mobility.

Benjamin Nagel, Managing Director of BMW Group Malaysia, emphasised the significance of the BMW 5 Series, which has been a global leader in the premium sedan market since 1972. He also highlighted BMW Group Malaysia’s role as the largest assembler and exporter of premium vehicles in the region, with over 10,000 vehicles exported since 2018.

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Toyota’s New Four-Cylinder Engine Aims to Surpass the Legendary 2JZ

Toyota is ambitiously developing a new family of four-cylinder engines aimed at surpassing the legendary 2JZ-GTE, which powered iconic models like the Toyota Supra. This new engine family ranges from 1.5-litre naturally aspirated versions to 2.0-litre turbocharged models and is being designed with electrification in mind to ensure higher efficiency, power, and compactness.

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Volvo Malaysia Launches The New EX30: 0-100km/h in 3.6 Seconds, 476km EV Range

Volvo Car Malaysia launched its most anticipated and exciting model, the EX30. This is by far one of the smallest models Volvo has in its lineup and the quickest. We tested it out and did the 0-100km/h sprint in 3.6 seconds, which you can read about here.

The Volvo EX30, is now available for purchase in Malaysia, offering a combination of cutting-edge technology, safety features, and sustainable design. Aimed at providing drivers with a personal and eco-friendly driving experience, the EX30 is designed for everyday moments and city life, while delivering impressive performance and style.

The EX30 sets a new standard for Volvo, boasting the fastest acceleration in the brand’s history. With three variants available in Malaysia – the EX30 Plus, EX30 Ultra, and the high-performance EX30 Ultra Twin – the car caters to a range of driving preferences. The top-of-the-line Ultra Twin variant delivers an impressive 428PS of power and 543Nm of torque, propelling the car from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.6 seconds. Meanwhile, the single-motor Plus and Ultra models offer 272PS and 343Nm of torque, achieving 0-100 km/h in a respectable 5.3 seconds.

All variants feature a 69 kWh NMC battery, providing a range of up to 476km for the single-motor versions and 450km for the dual-motor Ultra Twin. With 175 kW DC fast charging, the battery can be charged from 10% to 80% in just 28 minutes, ensuring minimal downtime.

Standard features across all models include LED headlights, 19-inch Diamond Cut alloy wheels, Pilot Assist, a Harman Kardon Premium Sound system, and a full suite of advanced driver assistance technologies. The Ultra variants further enhance the package with Park Pilot Assist, a 360° camera, powered front seats, and a panoramic sunroof.

As with all Volvo vehicles, safety is paramount. The EX30 comes equipped with the Safe Space Technology suite, which includes radars, ultrasonic sensors, and cameras to monitor the environment. New safety innovations, such as a door opening alert to prevent collisions with cyclists, automatic braking for front cross-traffic and intersection turns, and automatic steering avoidance for vulnerable road users, are also included.

Volvo has also introduced the Park Pilot Assist, capable of handling complex parking situations, including parallel, perpendicular, and diagonal spaces, making parking easier and more convenient.

The EX30’s compact size and agile design make it perfect for navigating busy city streets. Its urban-friendly dimensions, combined with bold styling, such as wide headlights and fenders, give it a confident, modern look. Inside, the minimalist cabin features five interior ambient light themes inspired by Swedish nature, offering a relaxing and immersive environment.

Unique storage solutions, including a wireless phone charging slot, sliding cupholder, and removable rear storage box, maximise space, while a large 318-litre rear luggage space provides ample room for daily essentials. A hidden 61-litre storage compartment adds an extra layer of practicality.

The EX30 is the first Volvo to feature a Harman Kardon soundbar, inspired by home audio systems, for high-quality sound without taking up valuable space.

Volvo’s commitment to sustainability is evident in the EX30. Built with recycled and renewable materials, including upcycled denim textiles and recycled PET content, the car has the lowest carbon footprint of any Volvo vehicle to date. The EX30 is a testament to Volvo’s ambition to reduce emissions and lead the way in sustainable electric mobility.

The Volvo EX30 starts at RM188,888 for the Plus variant, while the Ultra is priced at RM208,888, and the Ultra Twin Performance at RM228,888. For customers in Sabah and Sarawak, the pricing is slightly lower. Each purchase includes a five-year complimentary Volvo Service Plan (VSP), 24-hour roadside assistance, and an eight-year warranty on the battery pack.

To learn more or to place an order, visit Volvo’s official website or your nearest dealership. Attractive financing options are available, with monthly payments starting at RM1,588 and exclusive rates for the first 100 orders.

With its sleek design, powerful performance, and innovative features, the Volvo EX30 is set to redefine urban electric mobility in Malaysia.