Piston.my

Global News

Aston Martin has officially introduced its latest flagship SUV, the DBX S, a high-performance evolution of the DBX range that sets new benchmarks for dynamic capability, design presence and technological innovation. Drawing from its storied tradition of ‘S’ models, the DBX S enters the line-up as a lighter, more powerful and strikingly assertive sibling to the DBX707.

At the core of the DBX S is an upgraded version of Aston Martin’s acclaimed 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine. Enhanced with turbocharger technology derived directly from the forthcoming Valhalla supercar, including larger compressor wheels and other internal refinements, the powertrain now delivers 727PS—an increase of 20PS over the DBX707. This results in a 0–100km/h sprint time of just 3.3 seconds, while the 0–200km/h time has been reduced by 0.3 seconds. The top speed remains unchanged at 310km/h.

Performance has been further bolstered with a revised exhaust system, amplifying the already sonorous character of the V8. Meanwhile, Aston Martin’s innovative nine-speed wet clutch transmission ensures optimal torque distribution between axles, offering up to 100 per cent rear-wheel torque for a rear-biased driving feel. The DBX S’s gearbox has undergone further calibration, allowing more aggressive downshifts in Sport and Sport+ modes and adjusted upshift points to suit the extended rev range.

(more…)

Xpeng displayed the 2025 iteration of its flagship electric SUV, the G9, at the Auto Shanghai 2025, showcasing a total of 66 enhancements over its predecessor. According to Xpeng chairman He Xiaopeng, the updated model is anchored by the introduction of the brand’s next-generation Turing AI intelligent driving system—an innovation that eliminates the need for LiDAR and significantly enhances autonomous driving capabilities.

The new G9 retains the foundational design of the current model, continuing with the X Robot Face 3.0 styling language. The SUV measures 4,891 mm in length, 1,937 mm in width, and 1,680 mm in height, while maintaining a wheelbase of 2,998 mm, making it slightly bigger than the Xpeng G6 that we have in our Malaysian market. Aesthetic updates include new electric suction doors, an automatic tailgate, and updated 20-inch five-spoke alloy wheels. Xpeng will also offer a special “Black Warrior” edition, finished entirely in black, including blacked-out rims, emblems, and fenders, to cater to buyers seeking a more aggressive appearance.

The 2025 G9 is equipped with Xpeng’s proprietary Turing AI driving system, which replaces LiDAR with a sensor suite comprising 11 cameras, three millimetre-wave radars, and 12 ultrasonic sensors. This setup reportedly increases visual perception distance by 125% compared to the previous system, while improving object recognition speed by 40%. Both stationary and moving obstacles can be identified with high precision, marking a leap forward in autonomous functionality.

(more…)

GWM has unveiled the pre-production version of its new Ora 07 Touring at the Auto Shanghai 2025 motor show, offering a glimpse at the brand’s future direction for its electric vehicle (EV) range. While still in development, the Touring variant hints at a more practical evolution of the sleek Ora 07 sedan.

Stylistically, the vehicle remains largely consistent with the standard Ora 07, a model often likened to the Porsche Panamera due to its silhouette. In keeping with that comparison, GWM’s Touring variant draws parallels with the Panamera Sport Turismo, featuring a more estate-like profile.

The most notable design update is found at the rear, where the conventional sloping roofline has been replaced by an extended D-pillar to form a shooting brake-style silhouette. Another significant exterior addition is the LiDAR sensor positioned above the front windscreen, suggesting the possibility of enhanced driver assistance systems in future production models.

The Touring sits on blacked-out 19-inch alloy wheels, matched with red brake callipers and fitted with Michelin Pilot Sport EV tyres, further underlining its sporty character.

(more…)

GWM Malaysia is preparing to introduce the high-performance Ora 03 (Good Cat) GT to the Malaysian market, following its recent appearance at Auto Shanghai 2025. The sportier and more dynamic version of the popular Good Cat signals GWM’s continued push into the electric vehicle (EV) sector, with the company confirming that bookings will open soon and deliveries are expected in the coming months.

The Ora Good Cat GT made a strong impression following its successful debut in Thailand and is set to bring a heightened level of excitement to Malaysia’s EV landscape. GWM Malaysia sees the launch as a crucial step in strengthening its electrification strategy and expanding its growing range of electric models in the country. Although pricing and full specifications have yet to be announced, expectations are high for the new model to appeal to design-conscious and performance-oriented buyers.

With an emphasis on sportier styling and enhanced performance, the Ora Good Cat GT departs significantly from the standard model. The exterior design features a striking black and yellow dual-tone finish, complemented by carbon-fibre-style accents that give the vehicle a more aggressive appearance. Larger 18-inch alloy wheels fitted with distinctive yellow brake callipers and revised front and rear bumpers further reinforce its athletic stance.

Inside the cabin, the Good Cat GT has been upgraded with premium Alcantara upholstery and GT-branded sports seats, aiming to deliver a more dynamic and premium driving experience. Performance improvements are also notable, with the GT variant delivering 169hp and 250Nm of torque, a significant boost over the standard model’s 141hp output. The model is powered by a 57.7 kWh battery, offering an estimated range of 460km based on the NEDC testing cycle. While this figure is slightly lower than that of the regular Good Cat, the reduction is attributed to the model’s sportier tuning and performance upgrades.

Positioned to compete against rivals such as the BYD Dolphin and MG 4 EV, the Ora Good Cat GT seeks to differentiate itself with its distinctive design and youthful appeal. GWM Malaysia believes the model’s unique combination of sporty aesthetics and enhanced driving performance will allow it to carve a strong niche in the increasingly competitive Malaysian EV market.

Further announcements regarding pricing, detailed specifications, and test drive opportunities are expected in the near future. The Ora Good Cat GT is poised to become one of the year’s most anticipated electric vehicle launches, strengthening GWM’s presence and influence in Malaysia’s rapidly evolving automotive sector.

On its journey toward the Neue Klasse era, the BMW Group presented the innovations of its next-generation vehicles at Auto Shanghai 2025.

“Innovative strength, a pioneering spirit, and sheer driving pleasure — these traits are deeply rooted in BMW’s DNA,” said Oliver Zipse, Chairman of the Board of Management of BMW AG. “With the Neue Klasse, our customers experience them on an entirely new level: a more intuitive user interface, even more progressive design, and a driving experience that is more precise and dynamic than ever. By the end of this year, we will put the mobility of the future on the road.”

At the heart of BMW’s presentation were two key innovations: the BMW Panoramic iDrive smart display and operating system, and the lightning-fast Heart of Joy central computer.

BMW introduced the Panoramic iDrive in a version developed specifically for the Chinese market. In collaboration with local technology partners, BMW tailored its Operating System X to Chinese users, offering exclusive digital functions available only in China.

(more…)

We just witnessed the global unveiling of the Omoda 3, a sporty-looking compact crossover that will be positioned below the Omoda 5 and Omoda 7. Depending on the market, the crossover may also be called the Omoda C3, similar to how the Omoda 5 and 7 are referred to as the C5 and C7, respectively.

As you can see from its striking and angular design, the Omoda 3 is clearly aimed at younger buyers, as stated by brand director Roy Xie. In fact, the car was designed by a team of designers with an average age of just 28 years.

(more…)

We have seen the Jaecoo J5, a compact SUV aimed at the ever-competitive segment populated by the likes of Honda HR-V, Toyota Corolla Cross and the Proton X50. This time, however, at the Auto Shanghai 2025 we are looking at the Jaecoo J5 EV, the fully-electric version capable of up to 470km driving range.

The zero-emissions version gets a slightly different look compared to the regular petrol sibling, especially from the front. The waterfall grille is gone, replaced by a transparent strip connecting the two LED headlights, with “JAECOO” lettering. Lower down at the bumper, there are some perforated body panels and intakes with square pins. Overall, the J5 EV has a cleaner look compared to the J5.

By the side, you don’t get the blacked-out A-pillars like on the bigger J7, but you do however, still get a floating roof effect with the blacked-out D-pillars. There’s also conventional door handles rather than flush pop-out ones, and you get a full-width tail-light strip, a rear spoiler, and a plastic diffuser.

(more…)

Geely has displayed its latest petrol-electric hybrid SUV, the Galaxy Starship 7 EM-i, at Auto Shanghai 2025, marking the public appearance of a model that could soon carry Proton branding in Malaysia as the e.MAS 7 PHEV.

Positioned as a hybrid counterpart to the fully electric Galaxy E5—sold in Malaysia as the Proton e.MAS 7—the Galaxy Starship 7 introduces Geely’s second-generation NordThor 2.0 plug-in hybrid system. This new powertrain is a refined version of the EM-P system also used by Lynk & Co and incorporates significant enhancements in efficiency and performance.

In terms of dimensions, the Galaxy Starship 7 measures 4,740mm in length, 1,905mm in width and 1,685mm in height, with a 2,755mm wheelbase. These figures make it marginally larger than the Galaxy E5.

(more…)

Following its appearance at the 2025 Bangkok International Motor Show, the Geely Xingyuan—also known under the Geome sub-brand—has made its way to China’s premier automotive event, Auto Shanghai 2025. Displayed alongside Geely’s high-tech Galaxy Cruiser SUV prototype, the compact electric vehicle (EV) has reignited speculation about its potential rebadging and entry into the Malaysian market under the Proton badge as the e.MAS 5.

If confirmed, the Xingyuan would become the second model in Proton’s e.MAS series, complementing the larger e.MAS 7 that has already been introduced in Malaysia. While official announcements remain pending, industry watchers note that the Xingyuan’s compact dimensions and urban-friendly electric powertrain make it an ideal fit for markets such as Malaysia, where demand for affordable, efficient electric mobility is growing.

In China, the Xingyuan is offered with two electric powertrains, both using lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries supplied by CATL. Fast-charging capabilities allow for a 30% to 80% charge in just 21 minutes. The entry-level variant comes equipped with a 30.12 kWh battery, offering a range of 310km under the Chinese Light-Duty Vehicle Test Cycle (CLTC), and is paired with a rear-mounted motor delivering 79PS and 130Nm of torque. The higher-end model features a larger 40.16 kWh battery that stretches the range to 410km, along with a more powerful 116PS, 150Nm electric motor. Both versions include a deep front trunk—or ‘frunk’—enhancing cargo versatility.

Five variants are currently offered in the Chinese domestic market. Standard and optional features include 16-inch alloy wheels, full LED lighting, a large 14.6-inch infotainment touchscreen (or a smaller 10.1-inch unit in base trims), 256-colour ambient lighting, either a four- or six-speaker audio system, and an external 3.3 kW power outlet for accessory charging. Comfort and convenience features span from manual to powered front seats, automatic air conditioning with rear vents, an 8.8-inch digital instrument cluster, and a 50W wireless phone charger with air-cooling. Comprehensive advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) are also available, underlining the model’s emphasis on safety and smart technology.

Sized for the urban commuter, the Xingyuan is noticeably more compact than its e.MAS 7 sibling. It measures 4,135 mm in length and 1,805 mm in width, with a wheelbase of 2,650 mm—figures that position it firmly in the B-segment crossover category.

With growing anticipation surrounding its potential localisation, the question remains whether this small electric hatch will arrive in Malaysia bearing the Proton badge.

A few months ago, Geely offered a glimpse into the future of alternative fuel technology with winter testing of a cutting-edge super sedan powered by a methanol engine. Based on the Binrui Cool platform, this prototype replaces the traditional BHE15-EFZ petrol engine with the experimental DHE20TDM diesel unit, designed to run on M100 (100% methanol) fuel.

The innovative car made a public appearance at Auto Shanghai 2025, giving visitors an up-close look at what could be the next evolution in renewable energy for high-performance cars.

Geely’s methanol prototype delivers a thermal efficiency of 46%—a figure that rivals the best in internal combustion technology—alongside an impressive 15:1 compression ratio. It produces 250hp and a peak torque of 400Nm.

Most notably, despite being a high-performance concept vehicle, this methanol-fueled engine meets China’s stringent China VI-B emissions standards, which are equivalent to the Euro 6d regulations in Europe. This highlights methanol’s potential as a clean-burning alternative to traditional fossil fuels.

Geely is not just experimenting with green power for the road. The company has announced plans to launch the Super Cup Pro racing series in 2026, featuring a monocup format with identical methanol-powered race cars. This initiative underlines Geely’s belief that motorsport can lead the transition to renewable energy, proving that speed and sustainability can coexist.

Looking ahead, Geely envisions methanol as a viable fuel for commercial transportation. The company is developing a hybrid concept that combines methanol-fueled internal combustion engines with electric drivetrains, potentially offering a clean and efficient alternative to conventional diesel-powered vehicles.

To support this vision, Geely is planning to build a methanol production facility in Inner Mongolia, capable of producing 50,000 tons annually. This significant infrastructure investment reaffirms the company’s long-term commitment to alcohol-based fuels—a journey that began in 2005 under the leadership of Chairman Li Shufu, who continues to champion this technology as a key part of Geely’s sustainability strategy.

Archive

Follow us on Facebook

Follow us on YouTube