Local News Archives

Lexus Malaysia Introduces The All-New RZ 450e Luxury BEV – 308hp, 440km Driving Range

Lexus Malaysia has made a bold entrance into the electric vehicle (EV) market with the launch of the all-new, all-electric Lexus RZ 450e Luxury. This model represents Lexus’ first globally available, purpose-built battery-electric vehicle (BEV), merging sustainability with personalised Luxury and exceptional craftsmanship.

As the first BEV developed from the start to be fully electric, the Lexus RZ draws on the brand’s long experience in electrified mobility. The new model aligns with the global Lexus electrification journey, which is contributing to a carbon-neutral society by aiming to offer 100% BEVs globally by 2035. Lexus’ “More Than Electric” emphasises this promise, setting the precedence for a range of Luxury EVs and HEVs from the brand that will make a positive impact on the planet and society.

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Proton Highlights Commitment to Talent Development at National Training Week 2024

Proton showcased its dedication to advancing Malaysia’s automotive industry through talent development during the National Training Week (NTW) 2024. Held at the National Stadium Bukit Jalil on 29 and 30 June, the event was organised by HRD Corp under the auspices of the Ministry of Human Resources to promote cutting-edge skills and lifelong learning.

Strategic Focus on Youth and Talent Development

At the heart of Proton’s participation in NTW 2024 was a clear message: the development of talent is critical to achieving the company’s goal of becoming a global leader in the automotive industry. Proton has crafted seven strategic thrusts, with “Talent Development” standing out as one of the pivotal priorities.

This strategic focus aims to tackle multifaceted business challenges by nurturing staff experiences and cultivating homegrown leaders. Aligning with the Human Capital department’s 10-year strategic roadmap, Proton is committed to investing in human capital growth and enhancing capabilities. This is underscored by significant investments and strategic initiatives such as the Proton Young Talent (PYT) programme. Launched in 2018, this fast-track career development initiative offers young talents multifunctional job rotations and project-based assignments to accelerate their skills. The programme has hired 178 young talents, with 143 currently serving the company.

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PRO-NET Enhances Proton e.MAS Reach With More Dealership Opportunities

Proton marked a significant milestone with the launch of its Proton e.MAS brand, introducing the first 17 Proton e.MAS dealerships through a ceremonial signing. The network has since expanded to 18 dealerships, reflecting Proton’s commitment to making electric vehicles (EVs) more accessible across Malaysia. This expansion is managed by PRO-NET, emphasising its goal of establishing a comprehensive dealership network.

The 18 Proton e.MAS dealerships, represented by 16 dealers, are strategically located to cover both Peninsular and East Malaysia. Seventeen outlets are positioned in Peninsular Malaysia: 3 in Kuala Lumpur, 4 in Selangor, 2 in Johor, 3 in Perak, 2 in Pulau Pinang, 1 in Kedah, 1 in Kelantan, and 1 in Pahang. The lone representative in East Malaysia is located in Sabah. This strategic expansion underscores Proton’s dedication to providing accessible support to customers nationwide, as they progress towards a sustainable future with Proton e.MAS.

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Transport Ministry Scrutinises Regulations for Bus Driver Accreditation Cards

The Transport Ministry is currently scrutinising regulations concerning the proposed issuance of accreditation cards for bus drivers, according to Minister Anthony Loke. The approval for issuing these cards was granted several months ago, and the finalisation of the related regulations is underway, according to NST.

“In fact, this matter was raised to us months ago, and we have actually approved the issuance of the bus driver cards subject to some regulations which are being fine-tuned,” Loke said.

The initiative for accreditation cards was suggested by Datuk Mohamad Ashfar Ali, president of the Pan Malaysian Bus Operators Association. The proposed cards aim to ensure accountability for both bus drivers and operators in the event of complaints or incidents. Currently, the Land Public Transport Agency issues accreditation cards only to e-hailing and taxi drivers.

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Mercedes-Benz World Event Showcases New AMG Line-Up

The Mercedes-Benz World event, held at KL Base in Sungai Besi from 5 to 7 July 2024, offers an unparalleled showcase of the latest and most luxurious models from the Mercedes-Benz portfolio. This immersive event highlights the brand’s commitment to innovation, luxury, and performance, featuring an extensive lineup of electrified high-tech combustion engines, cutting-edge electric vehicles (EVs), and plug-in hybrid options.

High-Performance Premieres

The event’s centerpiece is the premiere of three new high-performance Mercedes-AMG models: the Mercedes-AMG C 63 S E PERFORMANCE F1 Edition, Mercedes-AMG GLA 45 S 4MATIC+, and the Mercedes-AMG GLB 35 4MATIC. These models epitomise precision engineering and superior driving dynamics, catering to the most discerning automotive enthusiasts.

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Government Considering Waiving Parking Fees for EVs

The Malaysian government is considering waiving parking fees for electric vehicles (EVs) entering cities as part of efforts to encourage the adoption of EVs over traditional fossil fuel cars as stated by Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming, according to The Star. This proposal is being examined in conjunction with the recent announcement of “green plates” for EVs.

Key Points:

Encouraging EV Adoption:
- The waiver of parking fees for EVs is being proposed as a measure to make EVs more attractive to potential buyers.
- The initiative aims to promote the use of environmentally friendly vehicles and reduce the reliance on fossil fuel cars.

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KPDN Moves to Strengthen Consumer Protection with New Lemon Law

The Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living (KPDN) in Malaysia is progressing towards introducing a lemon law or amending existing legislation by March next year. This initiative aims to bolster consumer protection, particularly concerning defective vehicles, aligning with current demands and international best practices.

Key Developments and Strategies:

Expert Report and Engagement Sessions:
- A group of legal experts has been tasked to study best practices from various countries regarding lemon laws. They will engage with relevant stakeholders and prepare a comprehensive report by the end of September.
Existing Legal Framework:
- Malaysia currently applies aspects of lemon law through several acts, including the Consumer Protection Act (Act 599), the Contract Act 1950, the Sale of Goods Act 1950, and the Hire-Purchase Act 1967. The proposed amendments aim to consolidate and enhance these provisions.
Interim Consumer Protection Measures:
- Negotiation Taskforce: KPDN plans to establish a negotiation taskforce for motor vehicle complaints. This involves tripartite negotiations between the ministry, buyers, and distributors or manufacturers.
- Strengthening TTPM: The Tribunal for Consumer Claims Malaysia (TTPM) will be strengthened through collaboration with Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM). This includes facilitating consent letters from financial institutions to aid consumer claims.
Special Focus on New Vehicles:
- The negotiation taskforce will particularly address issues with new motor vehicles less than six months old, still under warranty and unmodified.
Cooperation and Industry Expectations:
- KPDN expects cooperation from industry players, especially in the automotive sector, to support consumer rights and ensure a fair market environment.

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Hubject And Gentari Join Forces To Streamline EV Charging Across Southeast Asia

Hubject, a leader in EV interoperability, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Gentari Green Mobility Sdn Bhd, a subsidiary of Gentari Sdn Bhd, to integrate Gentari’s EV charging network with Hubject’s eRoaming platform. This collaboration aims to enhance the accessibility and reliability of EV charging infrastructure in Malaysia and Southeast Asia.

Key Points of the Collaboration:

Integration with Hubject’s eRoaming Platform:
- Gentari’s EV chargers will be connected to Hubject’s eRoaming platform, allowing EV drivers to charge seamlessly across a broader network of charging points in the region.
- This partnership will be significantly enhanced when Gentari’s charging points are certified for Hubject’s Plug&Charge via the Gentari Go app, enabling EV drivers to start charging without using a mobile app or RFID card.
Advancing Seamless Charging Experience:
- Gentari is in talks with OEMs to enable Plug&Charge capabilities for their vehicles, further promoting a seamless charging experience.
Statements from Leaders:
- Christian Hahn, CEO of Hubject: He emphasized the value of the collaboration, highlighting how it supports the adoption of EVs and renewable energy. He sees Gentari as a future EV mobility champion in Southeast Asia.
- Shah Yang Razalli, Deputy CEO of Gentari and CEO of Gentari Green Mobility: He reiterated Gentari’s commitment to sustainable transportation, ensuring safety, reliability, and convenience for customers. He views this partnership as a significant step towards becoming a leading green mobility solutions partner in the Asia Pacific.
Gentari’s Charging Network:
- Gentari operates the largest direct current (DC) charging network in Malaysia, with over 120 DC charging points from more than 400 charging points (CPs) in the country.
- Gentari’s clean energy platform, Gentari Go, provides access to over 2,400 chargers across Malaysia, Singapore, and Thailand through an EV roaming network.
Global Ambitions:
- Hubject aims to achieve one million networked charge points globally by 2024, and this partnership with Gentari is part of their strategic goal to streamline the EV charging experience in Southeast Asia.

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Debate Heats Up: Concessionaires vs. Government on MLFF Traffic Project

Concessionaires are raising concerns about the federal government’s involvement in the implementation of the multi-lane free-flow (MLFF) traffic project on private highways. This project aims to facilitate toll collection without requiring vehicles to stop or slow down, using advanced technologies like radio-frequency identification devices (RFID) and automated number plate recognition (ANPR).

Key Points of Concern

Government’s Role vs. Private Operators’ Autonomy
- Government’s Plan B: Deputy Works Minister Ahmad Maslan announced that the government intends to issue a request for proposal (RFP) to potentially reduce project costs.
- Concessionaires’ Stance: Private highway operators believe they should have the freedom to select the service providers for implementing MLFF on their highways, as they own and manage these assets.
Cost Implications and Efficiency
- Concessionaires’ View: Operators argue that they can implement the MLFF system more cost-effectively at their own expense. They claim that issuing an RFP and potentially awarding the project to a single company could increase costs and breach existing concession agreements.
- Government’s Rationale: The government believes an RFP could lower project costs, though concessionaires dispute this.
Previous Agreements and Concerns
- Unilateral Decision: In December, the government reportedly signed an agreement with a company linked to YTL Corporation Bhd for a RM3.46 billion project without consulting concessionaires.
- Objections: Concessionaires have objected to this move, suggesting it could inflate costs by up to 30% and violate their agreements with the government.
- Berjaya Group’s Competing Bid: Earlier in the year, Berjaya Group sought support for a rival bid involving the installation of a barrier-free toll system. The government has assured that no final decision has been made and that concessionaires will be consulted.

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Drive Home A Mercedes-Benz With Goodyear’s “Win A Car” Campaign

Goodyear Malaysia has announced the launch of its “Win A Car” Campaign, running from today until 31 October 2024. This exclusive campaign offers customers the chance to drive home a Mercedes-Benz and win iPhone 15 prizes every two weeks by purchasing two or more 17” and above tyres.

Campaign Highlights:

Grand Prize: A Mercedes-Benz for one lucky winner.
Bi-Weekly Prizes: iPhone 15 for winners every two weeks.

Goodyear’s collaboration with Mercedes-Benz aims to provide customers with the joy of driving luxury cars fitted with premium tyres. This reflects the shared commitment to excellence and customer satisfaction of both brands.

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Local News

Lexus Malaysia Introduces The All-New RZ 450e Luxury BEV – 308hp, 440km Driving Range

Proton Highlights Commitment to Talent Development at National Training Week 2024

PRO-NET Enhances Proton e.MAS Reach With More Dealership Opportunities

Transport Ministry Scrutinises Regulations for Bus Driver Accreditation Cards

Mercedes-Benz World Event Showcases New AMG Line-Up

Government Considering Waiving Parking Fees for EVs

Key Points:

KPDN Moves to Strengthen Consumer Protection with New Lemon Law

Key Developments and Strategies:

Hubject And Gentari Join Forces To Streamline EV Charging Across Southeast Asia

Key Points of the Collaboration:

Debate Heats Up: Concessionaires vs. Government on MLFF Traffic Project

Key Points of Concern

Drive Home A Mercedes-Benz With Goodyear’s “Win A Car” Campaign

Malaysian Auto Sales Rise by 6% in 2024 Despite August Dip

2024 Mitsubishi Xpander Facelift Officially Launched from RM99,980 – Two Variants Available

Leapmotor C10 Previewed Ahead of Malaysian Launch

Proton Boosts Vendor Confidence, Speeds Up Next-Gen Car Development

Goodyear Malaysia Strengthens Partnership with St. John Ambulance through Tyre Donation

Perodua Launches Online Booking Platform

Proton’s e.MAS 7 Continues Rigorous Local Tests

Mercedes-Benz Malaysia Unveils Locally Assembled GLC 350 e 4MATIC Plug-In Hybrid

Kia Strengthens Asia Pacific Presence with Launch of Training Centre in Malaysia

Honda Malaysia Introduces Special Edition Models of the City V and the WRV

Archive

SAIC Motor Malaysia Unveils the All-New MG5 Sedan and MG HS SUV

BYD SEAL Dynamic RWD Variant Launched in Malaysia – Priced at RM163,800

2025 Subaru BRZ Introduces Dedicated Sport Mode and Other Enhancements

GWM Malaysia to Host Off-Road Test Drive Event for TANK 300 on July 20-21

Tesla’s Rumored “Night Curfew” Feature: Enhanced Parental Controls

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