Global News Archives

Toyota Plans Resumption of Operations Following New Year’s Day Earthquake

In the aftermath of the New Year’s Day earthquake that struck Japan’s western coast, Toyota Motor announced its decision to restart operations at its Japanese vehicle plants on Monday. However, the company has stipulated that a separate determination will be made concerning operations from January 15, considering the ongoing aftershocks and the impact on suppliers.

The earthquake, with a magnitude of 7.6, left a devastating impact on Japan’s western regions, particularly the Noto peninsula, resulting in over 100 confirmed fatalities and more than 200 people still missing. As the affected areas grapple with the aftermath, Toyota aims to cautiously resume its operations while prioritising the safety and well-being of its employees and stakeholders.

Toyota President Koji Sato addressed the challenges faced by the company, stating that they are actively working to understand the intricate supply chain situation. Notably, suppliers Aisin and Sumitomo Electric suffered damage from the earthquake, contributing to the complexities in the manufacturing landscape.

(more…)

Tesla Humorously Offers “Broken Glass” Decal For RM256

In a humorous turn of events, Tesla has transformed a memorable 2019 mishap into a unique accessory for its Cybertruck owners. During the initial unveiling of the Cybertruck, Tesla’s Chief Designer, Franz von Holzhausen, attempted to showcase the vehicle’s shatterproof windows by throwing a metal ball at them. To everyone’s surprise, the supposedly unbreakable windows cracked.

Elon Musk’s reaction at the time, “Well, maybe that was a little too hard,” quickly became a viral moment. Now, Tesla has decided to embrace the incident by offering an exclusive “broken glass” sticker specifically designed for the Cybertruck’s rear driver-side window, where the real-life cracks occurred.

Priced at $55 (RM256), the sticker serves as a lighthearted nod to the infamous window demonstration gone awry. Despite its seemingly steep price, the sticker has quickly sold out, with Tesla not disclosing the exact quantity made available.

The Cybertruck, known for its unconventional design and robust features, has become a symbol of Tesla’s innovation. The window sticker, showcasing the cracked glass pattern, is positioned on the rear side window, ensuring it doesn’t obstruct the driver’s view for safety reasons.

During the recent Cybertruck delivery event, von Holzhausen recreated the infamous window test, this time with a seemingly gentler throw that did not result in any cracks. While the sticker is undoubtedly a playful addition to the Cybertruck accessory lineup, it’s just one of many items available on Tesla’s official website.

Aside from the broken glass sticker, Cybertruck owners can choose from a range of accessories, including a tailgate ramp, cargo rails, and a $3,000 (RM13,963) tent designed to seamlessly integrate with the truck bed. Prices for the Cybertruck itself start at approximately $61,000 (RM283,924) for the two-wheel-drive version and extend to over $100,000 (RM465,450) for the high-performance four-wheel-drive variant dubbed the Cyberbeast. Tesla continues to leverage the Cybertruck’s unique characteristics, turning even unexpected events into opportunities for creativity and engagement with its community of owners and enthusiasts.

QuantumScape’s Solid-State Battery Exceeds Expectations in Volkswagen Testing

QuantumScape, a leading developer of solid-state batteries, has achieved significant success in recent testing conducted by Volkswagen’s PowerCo labs. The prototype of QuantumScape’s solid-state battery underwent an impressive 1,000 charging cycles, retaining over 95% of its initial energy capacity. This outstanding performance is equivalent to an electric vehicle covering more than 482,803km without experiencing any noticeable degradation in range.

The solid-state battery technology developed by QuantumScape is considered revolutionary due to its potential to offer longer ranges, shorter charging times, and enhanced safety compared to traditional lithium-ion batteries. The company’s target for the prototype was 800 cycles with 80% energy retention, and the actual results have far surpassed this goal.

The rigorous testing carried out by Volkswagen’s PowerCo labs is a crucial step in validating the performance potential of QuantumScape’s solid-state lithium metal batteries. The prototype cell used in the tests has the same number of layers and follows the same proprietary cell format as QuantumScape’s first production-intent battery cell, known as the QSE-5.

(more…)

Chery Launches The Fengyun A8 Plug-in Hybrid – 355hp, 1400km Range

Chery has officially launched its Fengyun A8 plug-in hybrid sedan in China. Priced between 119,900 to 149,900 yuan (approximately RM78k to RM97k), the Fengyun A8 is part of Chery’s new energy vehicle series. Positioned as a compact sedan, it offers consumers four model options.

Key features of the Chery Fengyun A8 include a large trapezoidal grille connected to the headlights in the front and an upturned tail design above the trunk at the rear that has a resemblance to the Audi A8. The interior boasts a 12.3-inch instrument panel, a 12.3-inch central control screen, and a four-spoke flat-bottom steering wheel. The cockpit is powered by Chery’s Lion 5.0 operating system, with high-end models equipped with the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8155 chip.

Powering the Chery Fengyun A8 is Chery’s Kunpeng Super Performance Electric Hybrid C-DM system, comprising a fifth-generation ACTECO 1.5TGDI hybrid engine and a permanent magnet synchronous motor. The total power output is 355hp and 530Nm of torque, with an acceleration time from 0 to 100km/h in 7 seconds.

The car’s 18.3 kWh lithium battery pack provides a pure electric cruising range of 127km (CLTC) and a total range of over 1,400km (WLTC). The fast-charging capability allows the battery to be fully charged from 30% to 80% in 19 minutes, while slow charging takes at least three hours.

The lineup comes standard with navigation, OTA updates, Bluetooth, remote control through the app, and karaoke functions. Both CarPlay and HiCar are supported. The advanced driving assistance system, available only in high-end models, includes features such as front and rear collision warning, automatic emergency braking, full-speed range adaptive cruise control, and lane merge assist.

BYD’s ‘Vehicle To Load Function’ Powers A Dialysis Machine

Amidst power outages caused by storms and flash flooding on 25th December 2023 in Australia, an electric vehicle (EV) owner on the Gold Coast utilised her car’s emergency power system to run her 11-year-old son’s life-saving dialysis machine.

Kristy Holmes, a resident of the Gold Coast, utilised her BYD electric car, equipped with a “vehicle to load” system, allowing the EV to function as an emergency power source for various devices.

The unexpected blackout prompted Holmes to initially assist her neighbours by connecting their refrigerators to her EV. However, as the power outage persisted, she realised that her BYD Atto 3, purchased in February, could potentially power her 11-year-old son Levi’s life-saving dialysis machine. Taking a decisive step, Holmes successfully ran the dialysis machine off the car’s power, ensuring that Levi, who is on the verge of joining a transplant list, received critical treatment despite the adverse weather conditions.

(more…)

China Unveils Advanced Aircraft Carrier With Next-Gen Launch Tracks

New images of China’s most advanced aircraft carrier, the Fujian, have been unveiled, showcasing next-generation launch tracks capable of catapulting a wider range of aircraft from its deck. First unveiled in June 2022, the domestically designed and built Fujian is yet to undergo its first sea trials.

The Fujian surpasses its predecessors, the Shandong commissioned in 2019 and the Liaoning, acquired from Ukraine in 1998, in terms of size and technological advancements. Images broadcasted on state television depict the Fujian being towed by a smaller vessel, revealing all three tracks of its electromagnetic catapult system on the deck.’

While sea trials are pending, the carrier has undergone various tests, including mooring tests. In November, the Fujian initiated launch tests for its electromagnetic catapult system, distinguishing it as the only carrier, besides the US Ford-class carriers, equipped with the latest Electromagnetic Aircraft Launch System (EMALS).

China’s version of EMALS enhances its capability to launch a broader spectrum of aircraft compared to its predecessors, Shandong and Liaoning. Additionally, it is touted to be more reliable and energy-efficient, marking a significant milestone in China’s military modernisation efforts.

President Xi Jinping’s emphasis on increased combat-readiness and technological advancements aligns with the trajectory of modernising the Chinese military, with the Fujian showcasing its commitment to achieving these goals. The unveiling comes amid heightened tensions, with some speculating potential military actions concerning Taiwan, particularly ahead of the 100th anniversary of the People’s Liberation Army in 2027. The carrier’s advanced features and capabilities underscore China’s commitment to strengthening its naval prowess on the global stage.

2024 Toyota GR Corolla Introduces Changes for Enhanced Aerodynamics

Toyota’s iconic 2024 GR Corolla is making waves in the automotive industry with unconventional yet intriguing updates aimed at elevating vehicle performance and aerodynamics.

In a commitment to continuous innovation, Toyota has introduced subtle yet impactful changes to the 2024 GR Corolla. Among these updates are new bolts, air ducts, and a noteworthy addition – four strips of specially designed aluminium tape. This unconventional addition serves a unique purpose, addressing the often-overlooked phenomenon of electrostatic discharge in automotive design.

The concept of electrostatic discharge comes into play as a vehicle moves, causing both the car body and the surrounding air to develop a positive charge. This phenomenon can lead to repelling forces that subtly affect airflow around the vehicle. The revelation of this challenge emerged during the development of the facelifted Toyota 86, where inconsistent test results were observed due to electrostatic issues.

Toyota’s solution involves the integration of patented aluminium tape, strategically placed to manage electrostatic discharge and, concurrently, enhance aerodynamics. This innovative approach showcases Toyota’s commitment to understanding the intricacies of vehicle dynamics and pushing the boundaries of design.

Pro drifter Ken Gushi, an early adopter of the 2024 upgrade kit on his 2023 GR Corolla, has provided subjective yet promising feedback. Gushi noted a significant difference in his vehicle’s driving dynamics post-upgrade. While awaiting confirmation from controlled testing, Gushi’s observations underscore the potential impact of these minor modifications. The improvements hint at the transformative power of seemingly small tweaks in fine-tuning and optimising vehicle performance.

Toyota’s 2024 GR Corolla sets a precedent for innovative design thinking in the automotive industry, proving that even minor changes can lead to substantial enhancements in driving dynamics and overall performance.

Porsche’s Upcoming Taycan Variant Shatters Nürburgring Lap Record

In a sensational feat, Porsche has unveiled its upcoming Taycan variant, setting a new lap record at the iconic Nürburgring circuit. Driven by Porsche development ace Lars Kern, the pre-series Taycan achieved a remarkable 7:07.55 lap time, surpassing its predecessor, the 2022 Taycan Turbo S, by an impressive 26 seconds. This performance even outpaced the 992 911 Turbo S, firmly establishing the electric vehicle’s prowess.

Identified by its distinct rear spoiler, the Taycan variant, speculated to be named Turbo GT, is expected to lead a mid-cycle update for the Taycan model, which entered the scene four years ago. This achievement highlights the electric car’s ability to sustain high performance consistently, addressing a common concern associated with electric vehicles.

Under the hood, the Turbo GT is anticipated to boast three motors, delivering a baseline power level exceeding 800PS. The two motors at the rear axle promise enhanced power distribution and torque vectoring, contributing to the car’s versatile performance capabilities.

Porsche enthusiasts and the automotive community eagerly await the official unveiling of the Taycan Turbo GT, expected within the first half of 2024. The company plans to release additional details and full footage of the record-breaking lap in March, adding to the excitement surrounding this groundbreaking electric vehicle.

BYD Achieves Record Sales of 3.02 Million NEVs in 2023

Chinese automaker BYD has reported a significant milestone in its electric vehicle (EV) sales, with a record-breaking 3,024,417 new energy vehicles sold in 2023. This figure represents a remarkable year-on-year increase of 62.3%, surpassing the previous year’s sales record of 1,863,494 vehicles.

The impressive growth in sales is attributed to BYD’s commitment to new energy vehicle production, with 3,045,231 units manufactured in 2023—a 62.2% increase compared to the previous year. The commercial vehicle segment played a crucial role, recording sales of 11,511 units, including electric buses, trucks, and other vehicles, experiencing a notable uptick of 88.2%.

In the passenger car business, BYD’s sales reached 3,012,906 units, marking a year-on-year increase of 62.2%. Notably, the sales of pure electric models surged, totalling 1,574,822 units with a robust year-on-year growth of 72.8%. Battery electric vehicles (BEVs) accounted for 52.3% of total passenger car sales, reflecting increasing consumer preference for electric mobility.

(more…)

Koenigsegg Jesko ‘Attack’ With 24-Karat Gold Accents Hits The Streets

Koenigsegg has just delivered a jaw-dropping Jesko ‘Attack’ to a lucky owner, featuring an exterior entirely clad in glossy exposed carbon fibre with exquisite 24-karat gold leaf accents. Limited to just 125 units worldwide, the Jesko replaces the renowned Agera and has quickly become a coveted hypercar.

Taking inspiration from the iconic Agera RS named ‘Phoenix,’ owned by real estate mogul Manny Khoshbin, this Jesko boasts clear-coated exposed carbon fibre body panels adorned with delicate gold specks. The opulent use of 24-karat gold leaf is evident in various exterior elements, including front canards, wing mirror arms, a central front fascia element, side skirt aerodynamic flics, rear wing endplates, Koenigsegg badges, and roof accents.

This specific Jesko is the ‘Attack’ variant, emphasising track-focused performance with aggressive aerodynamics to enhance downforce. Notable features include an imposing rear wing, an enhanced front splitter, and a distinctive diffuser. Koenigsegg offers an alternative ‘Absolut’ version tailored for high-speed performance, omitting the rear wing and potentially reaching speeds exceeding 480km/h.

Under the Jesko’s hood lies a formidable 5.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine, generating 1,280hp on petrol or an astounding 1,600hp on E85 fuel. The powertrain is seamlessly paired with Koenigsegg’s innovative 9-speed multi-clutch transmission, delivering exhilarating performance to the rear wheels.

Limited production, combined with the exquisite gold-accented carbon fibre exterior, makes this Jesko a true collector’s item, embodying Koenigsegg’s commitment to exclusivity and cutting-edge automotive engineering.