Global News Archives

Mercedes Halts Development of New Platforms for Luxury EVs

Mercedes-Benz has made the decision to halt the development of a next-generation platform for mid- and full-size electric vehicles as part of its efforts to reduce spending in the EV segment amidst a slowdown in sales.

Initially announced in 2021, the MB.EA platform was a key component of Mercedes’ strategy to transition exclusively to EVs by 2030. However, slower-than-expected EV sales prompted the automaker to reevaluate its plans, leading to the decision to discontinue the development of the next-generation platform.

(more…)

2025 BYD Shark Set to Hit Australian Showrooms By End of the Year

The BYD Shark has been officially unveiled, marking its arrival in Australia by the end of this year. This introduction also signifies the debut of the first plug-in hybrid pickup truck in Australian showrooms.

Promising a fuel consumption rate of 7.5 litres per 100km in hybrid mode and an electric driving range of up to 100km, the Shark boasts more power and quicker acceleration with a 0-100km/h acceleration time of 5.7 seconds in hybrid mode.

The Shark, larger than a Ford Ranger or Toyota Hilux but smaller than a Ford F-150, utilises ladder-frame underpinnings akin to its counterparts, with a braked towing capacity of 2500kg. Distinguishing itself, it incorporates passenger vehicle-like independent rear suspension alongside independent front suspension, which could enhance off-road performance but potentially reduce performance when laden.

Equipped with a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine and two electric motors, the Shark generates a combined power output of more than 430hp. It boasts a plug-in battery pack that delivers up to 100km of electric driving range or fuel consumption of 7.5L/100km in hybrid mode, offering a total driving range of 840km (NEDC).

Notably, the Shark features “the world’s first longitudinal electric hybrid system,” driving all four wheels with electric motors, while the petrol engine directly powers the front wheels. The hybrid system prioritises electric motor propulsion for up to 80 per cent of total journeys.

With a claimed recharge time of 20 minutes from 30 to 80 per cent, the battery pack supports vehicle-to-load technology, enabling the Shark to power external electrical devices while camping.

Measuring 5457mm long, 1971mm wide, and 1925mm tall, with a wheelbase of 3260mm, the Shark offers a payload of up to 835kg and a braked towing capacity of 2500kg. Its 1450-litre tray volume and high-strength steel construction underscore its practicality and durability.

Interior features include a rotating 12.8-inch infotainment touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, satellite navigation, and a 10.25-inch instrument display. Advanced safety features include autonomous emergency braking, lane-keep assist, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot monitoring.

With its advanced technology, robust construction, and comprehensive features, the 2025 BYD Shark ute is poised to make a significant impact in Australian showrooms upon its arrival later this year.

420 units of Omoda 5 Affected in Indonesia, Recall not Only for Malaysia

Chery Sales Indonesia (CSI) has issued a recall for the Omoda 5 model in Indonesia due to concerns regarding the rear axle component. Similar to the issue here in Malaysia.

In the statement, Chery emphasised its commitment to ensuring the safety of its customers and providing the best service possible. The decision to recall the Omoda 5 was made following an in-depth investigation conducted by Chery International, which identified issues with the rear axle shell component from a specific vendor.

(more…)

Toyota’s North Carolina EV Battery Plant to Begin Production Next Year

Toyota is gearing up to produce electric vehicle (EV) batteries at its new factory in North Carolina, USA, with plans to commence production in the first quarter of next year. The facility, which received increased investment totalling $13.9 billion last year, is making significant progress since its groundbreaking in late 2022.

According to reports, Sean Suggs, President of Toyota Battery Manufacturing at the North Carolina complex, revealed that trial activities are currently underway in the first building of the factory. With approximately 300 team members on-site daily and around 500 more at the headquarters location in Greensboro, the plant is set to employ a total of 5,100 people upon completion in 2028.

(more…)

PHEV for AMG Doesn’t Do It, Mercedes Goes to V8

The upcoming Mercedes-AMG CLE 63 is set to receive a twin-turbocharged 4.0-litre V8 petrol engine, boasting an output of up to 585bhp, according to senior officials at the division’s Mercedes-Benz parent company.

This decision marks a departure from the initial plan to equip the new coupe and cabriolet with a 670bhp plug-in hybrid drivetrain, which mirrors the latest C63 and GLC 63 models. The shift in strategy is attributed to sluggish sales of the saloon, estate, and SUV variants, which feature the E-Performance PHEV drivetrain combining a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine with a rear-axle mounted electric motor.

Despite its impressive performance figures, the E-Performance PHEV drivetrain hasn’t resonated with traditional AMG buyers, resulting in lower sales compared to their V8 predecessors across global markets. As a result, the most potent versions of the new CLE will be powered by the latest version of AMG’s M177 V8 engine, incorporating mild-hybrid technology.

These V8-powered models will occupy a position above the CLE 53 Coupe and Cabriolet, which utilise a turbocharged 3.0-litre six-cylinder petrol engine producing 442bhp. Mercedes-AMG aims to position the CLE as a direct competitor to the BMW M4, which offers up to 542bhp from a twin-turbo 3.0-litre straight-six engine in its most powerful configuration.

The decision to opt for V8 power for the CLE is not only influenced by the lukewarm reception to the PHEV C63 and GLC 63 models but also stems from feedback received from the global dealer network. Dealers expressed concerns that introducing a four-cylinder CLE 63 variant above the six-cylinder CLE 53 could lead to customer confusion.

Bentley’s Special Edition 8 Models Bid Farewell to Current-Generation Petrol V8 Engine

Bentley is bidding farewell to its current-generation 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 engine with a special send-off in North America. The Continental GT, Continental GTC, and Flying Spur ‘Edition 8’ models are exclusively available in this region and are adorned with many sought-after Mulliner Personal Commissioning options.

These Edition 8 models boast a Blackline specification exterior, striking 22” wheels, Comfort Specification seats, Bentley’s Rotating Display, contrast stitching, and self-levelling wheel badges. Customers can choose from over 60 colours in Mulliner’s Extended Paint range, and the unique Palm Fluting option adds a distinctive touch to the seating.

Thoughtful details such as LED welcome lamps and a polished, engineered ‘jewel’ filler cap further enhance the exclusivity of these models. Edition 8 badging is prominent on the fenders of the Continental GT and Continental GTC, while it is located on the D Pillar of the Flying Spur. Inside, the Edition 8 motif is embroidered on the seat backs and engraved on the treadplates.

North American customers will have the opportunity to own one of the last, most opulent 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 models with the Edition 8 badge, as production shifts towards hybrid variants as part of Bentley’s Beyond100 strategy. While the current engine will continue in the Bentayga family, the Continental and Flying Spur ranges will transition to hybrid models by 2024.

The V8 engine has been a cornerstone of Bentley’s heritage for 75 years, evolving from the first L-Series V8 in 1959 to today’s current-generation powerhouse. Since its introduction in 2012, over 53,000 V8-powered Continental GT, GTC, and Flying Spur examples have been handcrafted at Bentley’s Dream Factory in Crewe, England.

Porsche Taycan Recalled For Faulty Cells in Battery That Might Ignite

Porsche has confirmed the recall of several thousand electric Taycan models due to risks associated with their batteries potentially catching fire. The recall was initiated after identifying faulty cells in some batteries that could short-circuit and ignite.

Initially, 858 Taycans were recalled in January, but further checks revealed that additional vehicles could be affected. Porsche has now determined that 2,936 Taycans show anomalies requiring changes to the modules in their batteries. Another 4,522 Taycans have yet to be inspected and will need to be brought to repair shops for verification.

(more…)

UMW Toyota Motor Reports Strong April 2024 Sales

UMW Toyota Motor Sdn Bhd (UMWT) concluded April 2024 with continued positive performance, achieving monthly total sales of 7,345 units (Toyota + Lexus), with Toyota contributing 7,213 units and Lexus contributing 132 units. This achievement brings the total year-to-date sales as of April 2024 to 30,789 units.

UMWT has set a new standard in the non-national B-segment hatchback market with the launch of the limited-edition Toyota Yaris G Limited. Designed specifically for Generation Z drivers, this model offers a sportier and more dynamic driving experience, with only 600 units available.

The commercial sector received a boost with the introduction of the all-new Toyota Hiace Super Long Wheelbase (SLWB). This model offers significantly increased size, providing enhanced space for passengers and cargo, making it ideal for long journeys. Powered by a 2.8-litre 1GD-FTV turbo-diesel engine, it delivers 177 PS at 3,400 rpm and 450 Nm of torque between 1,600 to 2,400 rpm.

(more…)

Bentley Introduces Ultra Performance V8 Hybrid: A New Era of Power and Efficiency

Bentley has announced a significant step towards the future with the introduction of an all-new, performance-focused V8 hybrid powertrain, which will succeed its iconic W12 engine. Named the Ultra Performance Hybrid, this new powertrain marks Bentley’s commitment to delivering the highest power output ever offered in a Bentley vehicle, alongside unparalleled dynamism, responsiveness, and efficiency, ushering in a new era of daily supercars.

The Ultra Performance Hybrid continues Bentley’s tradition of enhancing class-leading combustion engines with cutting-edge technology to elevate performance. Building on Bentley’s existing hybrid powertrains, this new system introduces “electrocharging,” employing a potent hybrid setup to achieve the most advanced and powerful powertrain in Bentley’s history. With over 750PS and an electric-only range of 80km, it surpasses the performance of the previous W12 engine by at least 91PS, previously offered in the Flying Spur and GT W12 Speed derivatives.

As Bentley’s iconic 6.0-litre twin-turbo W12 engine nears retirement after powering 105,000 engines over the last two decades, the Ultra Performance Hybrid will take the lead as Bentley’s premier powertrain. It will propel a new generation of Bentleys, establishing them as the world’s finest electrified luxury performance vehicles. Despite delivering more power and torque than the W12, the Ultra Performance Hybrid will achieve a WLTP drive cycle CO2 figure of under 50 g/km.

The character of the new engine is previewed with an engine sound clip, showcasing a blend of cross-plane bass and a free-revving growl, representing the spectrum of audio experiences offered by the powertrain. This ranges from dynamic engine notes to absolute silence in electric mode.

More details on Bentley’s new electrified powertrain, driving the next phase of its Beyond 100 journey, will be revealed in the coming weeks. Meanwhile, customers can still enjoy the remaining examples of Bentley’s W12 and non-hybrid V8 engines available through Bentley’s global retailer network.

Bentley Introduces the New Batur Convertible – Limited to 16 Units

Bentley Motors unveils the Batur Convertible, the third coachbuilt Bentley of the modern era, crafted by Mulliner, Bentley’s in-house bespoke division. Following the Bacalar barchetta and Batur coupe, the Batur Convertible continues the innovative design DNA introduced by its coupe sibling and embodies Bentley’s rich history of open-cockpit cars.

Powered by Bentley’s iconic W12 engine, the Batur Convertible boasts a 750PS, hand-assembled 6.0-litre twin-turbocharged powertrain, representing the pinnacle of Bentley’s engineering excellence. With production of this remarkable engine concluding this summer, the Batur Convertible stands as one of the last Bentleys to utilise this legendary powerplant.

Drawing inspiration from Bentley’s heritage of open-cockpit cars, the Batur Convertible features a ‘wraparound’ cockpit design reminiscent of the Bacalar, creating a dynamic and driver-focused environment. The convertible roof, deployable in just 19 seconds at speeds of up to 50km/h, transforms the car from a luxurious coupe to an open-top Grand Tourer, offering a seamless blend of performance and elegance.

Mulliner’s in-house design team collaborates with customers to co-create each Batur Convertible, offering a bespoke experience through the Mulliner visualiser tool. Customers can customise every aspect of the car, from exterior paint and brightware options to interior materials and finishes, ensuring that each Batur Convertible is a unique reflection of its owner’s tastes and preferences.

The cabin of the Batur Convertible exudes luxury and sophistication, with the option of 3D printed rose gold accents adorning key driver touchpoints and controls. Collaborating with expert goldsmiths from the historic Jewellery Quarter of Birmingham, England, Bentley Mulliner combines advanced manufacturing technologies with traditional craftsmanship to create bespoke elements that elevate the interior to new heights of luxury.

Limited to just 16 units, each handcrafted in Mulliner’s workshop at Bentley’s carbon-neutral factory in Crewe, England, the Batur Convertible represents the pinnacle of Bentley’s craftsmanship and heritage. As one of the final Bentleys to feature the iconic W12 engine, the Batur Convertible embodies the brand’s commitment to excellence and innovation, offering discerning customers a truly exclusive driving experience.