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Sime Darby Auto Connexion-Ford (SDAC-Ford), the exclusive distributor of Ford vehicles in Malaysia, continues to assert its dominance in the pickup market, as evidenced by a series of achievements that underscore the brand’s robust performance throughout 2023, solidifying its position in the nation’s automotive industry.

In a remarkable feat, SDAC-Ford achieved record-high sales, with a staggering 8,858 units of the Ford Ranger and Ford Everest sold in 2023. This milestone reflects the growing trust and preference of Malaysian consumers for Ford vehicles, renowned for their exceptional performance, advanced technology, and superior quality.

Particularly, the Next-Gen Ford Ranger has garnered immense popularity within the Malaysian market since its launch, owing to its outstanding performance and unmatched quality. Notably, the Next-Gen Ranger Raptor 3.0L Petrol engine model, equipped with a potent V6 Twin Turbo engine delivering 397PS and 583Nm of torque, offers exhilarating driving experiences. Meanwhile, the recently launched Next-Gen Ranger Platinum model boasts sophisticated features that promise luxurious comfort and cutting-edge technology.

A pivotal factor contributing to SDAC-Ford’s success is its strategic expansion of the dealership network, aimed at elevating the Ford service experience. Last year, the company commenced the construction of the latest RM12 million Ford Signature dealership in Penang, situated strategically on Jalan Baru in Seberang Prai. Spanning an impressive 46,000 square feet, the state-of-the-art facility showcases a cutting-edge Ford 3S centre adhering to the latest Ford Signature Corporate Identity standards, featuring sixteen service bays and four vehicle display areas. Scheduled for full operation by the end of Quarter 2, 2024, this dealership promises to set new benchmarks in customer service and satisfaction.

In a strategic move to tap into the thriving pickup market of East Malaysia, SDAC-Ford significantly expanded its presence across the region. Recognising Sabah as the third-largest pickup market in the country, the company launched two key dealerships in the state, namely Ford Kota Kinabalu (Inanam), Boston Auto Dealership, and Ford Kota Kinabalu (Penampang), Rightpower Corporation.

Furthering its strategic expansion, SDAC-Ford inaugurated Ford Kota Samarahan, Jimisar Aruna dealership in October 2023, located in the UniVista Commercial Centre, Jalan UniVista Off Jalan Express Way in Kuching, Sarawak. Positioned near a major expressway for enhanced accessibility and within a bustling commercial center, this dealership strengthens the brand’s presence in East Malaysia. These developments bring the total number of Ford dealerships in East Malaysia to nine, and nationwide to thirty-eight, solidifying SDAC-Ford’s footprint across the region.

The accolades received further underscore Ford’s unparalleled capabilities and innovation, with the Next-Gen Ranger WildTrak clinching the prestigious Malaysia Car of the Year 2023 award for Best Truck and the Next-Gen Ranger Raptor 3.0L V6 Twin Turbo receiving an Honorable Mention. Additionally, the Ford Ranger secured various accolades including Carlist.my’s People’s Choice Award for the Best Pickup Truck 2023 and the Allianz DSF.my Vehicle of the Year (VOTY) Award 2023 for ‘Pick-up Truck of the Year,’ among others.

With Ramadan fast approaching, highway authorities are revving up efforts to guarantee hassle-free journeys for commuters navigating the bustling roads during the Ramadan month.

Spearheading the charge, Sazali Harun, the Director-General of the Malaysian Highway Authority (LLM), underscored the imperative of robust preparations to accommodate the anticipated surge in traffic flow on toll highways once Ramadan starts on Tuesday.

Harun emphasised the importance of anticipating the surge by implementing various initiatives. These include adjusting the operational hours of tidal lanes or smart lanes to align with changed work schedules. Additionally, ensuring impeccable maintenance of all amenities at rest areas, lay-bys, and toll plazas, including water supply and cleanliness, remains a top priority.

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The Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry has announced plans to initiate a feasibility study on the potential implementation of a Lemon Law. Datuk Armizan Mohd Ali, Minister of the Ministry, revealed this development, highlighting the legislation’s aim to empower consumers facing vehicle breakdowns or quality standard violations.

The announcement follows a query by Datuk Seri Dr Wee Ka Siong (BN-Ayer Hitam), who sought updates on the government’s consideration of drafting a lemon law to safeguard consumers within the automotive industry.

A Lemon Law serves as a recourse for consumers purchasing products, especially vehicles, that repeatedly fail to meet quality and performance standards. Under such legislation, consumers may seek remedies such as price reductions or refunds.

According to The Star, Armizan assured that upon the completion of the feasibility study, a policy decision would be made at the Ministry level before proceeding with the legal framework’s implementation.

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smart Malaysia has officially commenced deliveries of its latest offering, the smart #1 Pro, heralding a new era in urban mobility. Positioned as an attractive entry-level addition to its product portfolio, the smart #1 Pro aims to cater to the diverse needs of urban drivers, providing a perfect everyday premium companion for individual mobility needs.

The smart #1 Pro is engineered to meet the standards of the premium class, offering an unparalleled all-electric driving experience with peak power at 268hp. Equipped with a 49kWh LFP Battery, it delivers a WLTP Range of 315km and can be fully charged in under 30 minutes under optimal conditions, thanks to its 130kW DC charging power. Comfort features include automatic 2-zone climate control, seat ventilation for both driver and front passenger, 19″ Alloy Wheels for stability, and a Panoramic Halo Roof for natural light and views. The variant offers a choice of five striking colour combinations and a unique interior colour, After Dark.

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In a momentous strategic maneuver under its “Goodyear Forward” transformation blueprint, The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company has unveiled plans for the complete shutdown of its Shah Alam facility in Malaysia by the close of 2024. This decisive action, affecting 550 positions, heralds a pivotal change in the company’s footprint in Malaysia and sparks inquiries into the future trajectory of its 180 Goodyear AutoCare outlets nationwide.

Established in 1972, the Shah Alam factory has stood as a cornerstone of Goodyear’s Malaysian operations, embodying a longstanding dedication to the local economy and automotive sector. However, its impending closure mirrors the overarching strategy delineated in the “Goodyear Forward” agenda, geared towards achieving annualised cost savings of $1.0 billion by 2025. This strategic roadmap encompasses shedding the Dunlop brand and rationalising the company’s global presence to bolster shareholder returns and fortify competitiveness within the sector.

The shuttering of the Shah Alam facility presents formidable hurdles for the local labour force, with approximately 550 employees confronting uncertain prospects. Goodyear has pledged to navigate this transition with dignity and transparency for affected personnel. Nevertheless, the broader ramifications for the local populace and the viability of Goodyear’s AutoCare network in Malaysia hang in the balance, eliciting apprehensions regarding the enduring economic repercussions on the region.

The verdict to terminate operations at the Shah Alam plant mirrors a broader pattern of global restructuring within the tire manufacturing domain, driven by imperatives to adapt to shifting market dynamics and technological progressions. As Goodyear charts this transformative trajectory, stakeholders within the automotive landscape will keenly monitor the fallout from these strategic moves. The closure not only signifies the denouement of an epoch for Goodyear in Malaysia but also underscores a pivot towards a more agile and targeted approach to its global endeavours.

Chery Malaysia welcomes the arrival of its first electric vehicle in Malaysia, the Chery Omoda E5, marking a significant milestone in the nation’s journey towards sustainable mobility. The Omoda E5 promises to not only enhance Malaysia’s green transportation landscape but also provide Malaysian consumers with a safe and eco-friendly travel experience.

Executive Vice President Leo Chen emphasised the strategic importance of local assembly operations for the E5, making it the first Chinese electric vehicle to be assembled in Malaysia. Chen highlighted the economic benefits, including job creation and support for Malaysia’s ambition to become a regional hub for electric vehicles.

Moreover, Chery Malaysia introduced its Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) initiative, aimed at promoting sustainability and eco-friendly practices among stakeholders.

The Omoda E5 features a powerful 3-in-1 flat-wire motor and advanced electronic control systems, offering a unique blend of strength and technology for an elevated driving experience. With benefits such as ultra-low power consumption, long-range capabilities, and fast charging, it ensures both efficiency and convenience for drivers.

The E5 is powered by a 61kWh high-capacity lithium iron phosphate blade battery ensuring long-range and swift charging while enhancing its eco-friendliness. Delivering an impressive 201hp and 340Nm of torque, while boasting a remarkable Worldwide Harmonised Light Vehicle Test Procedure (WLTP) 430km range.

Equipped with the latest ADAS 2.5 system, the OMODA E5 prioritises safety with 17 advanced functions, ensuring a secure driving experience for all occupants. These functions include Front Collision Warning (FCW) and Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) to prevent collisions, Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) for maintaining safe distances, and Lane Departure Warning (LDW) to alert drivers when drifting out of lanes.

Other features such as Multi Collision Brake (MCB), Traffic Jam Assistant (TJA), and Door Open Warning (DOW) enhance safety in various driving scenarios. Rear Cross Traffic Braking (RCTB), Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA), and Rear Collision Warning (RCW) provide additional protection while reversing or in traffic. Integrated Cruise Assist (ICA) works with ACC for smoother driving, while Lane Change Assist (LCA) and Lane Departure Prevention (LDP) aid in safe lane changes and lane-keeping.

The SUV also features Driving Monitoring System (DMS) for monitoring driver behavior and Blind-spot Detection (BSD) for detecting vehicles in adjacent lanes. Emergency Lane Keeping (ELK) intervenes in emergency situations, and a Departure Reminder prompts occupants to check the rear seats before exiting.

The intelligent cockpit, powered by a Qualcomm 8155 chip, provides seamless human-vehicle interaction, complemented by a 24.6-inch curved 2K HD dual-screen for an immersive visual experience. Additionally, a Premium Sony Sound System and dynamic ambient lighting enhance the entertainment value of the vehicle.

The E5 offers a luxurious and spacious interior, with customisable options and high-quality materials ensuring comfort and style. With ample cargo space and generous dimensions, the E5 combines elegance with practicality, making every journey a delightful experience.

Priced at RM146,800, the Omoda E5 comes with an outstanding 7-year or 150,000km vehicle warranty, an impressive 8-year or 160,000km battery warranty, and an equally robust 8-year or 160,000km drive unit warranty. Additionally, Chery Malaysia offers complimentary charging facilities for the first 2000 bookings, including a wall box charger, V2L charger, and charging credits worth RM1000 at EVC roaming.

Sime Darby Auto ConneXion (SDAC) has introduced the “Ford Assured” programme, aimed at providing customers with certified pre-owned Ford models and enhancing the overall pre-owned car buying experience. The programme focuses on instilling confidence and peace of mind among customers considering the purchase of pre-owned Ford vehicles.

At the core of the Ford Assured programme is a meticulous inspection and certification process to ensure that pre-owned Ford cars meet stringent quality and performance standards. This includes thorough vehicle standards, requiring pre-owned Ford vehicles to be below five years old or have mileage below 140,000km for Ranger and 80,000km for Everest, along with a comprehensive full-service history.

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In 2024, MOTUL celebrates a significant milestone as it announces its strengthened presence in Malaysia, building upon a rich 30-year legacy in the local automotive market. This strategic move underscores MOTUL Malaysia’s renewed commitment to excellence in lubricant technologies and closer ties with Malaysian automotive enthusiasts.

Founded in 1853, MOTUL has been a pioneer in lubricant technology, renowned for its innovation and excellence. With a comprehensive range of products designed to meet the highest standards of performance and reliability, MOTUL has been the preferred choice for generations of automotive professionals and enthusiasts worldwide.

MOTUL’s legacy extends to prestigious involvement in racing and motorsports, supported by partnerships with renowned teams across major racing events globally. Beyond sports and tradition, MOTUL continuously pushes boundaries in automotive performance, ensuring that every lubricant offers unmatched performance and reliability through racing.

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In a parliamentary session, Datuk Seri Tuan Ibrahim Tuan Man, an opposition Member of Parliament representing PN-Kubang Kerian, has called upon the government to eliminate the tolls at Gombak and Karak to alleviate congestion on the East Coast Expressway (LPT), as reported by NST.

Highlighting the age of the Gombak toll, which is among the oldest in the nation, Tuan Ibrahim emphasized the importance of abolishing it first. He suggested that to alleviate the burden on LPT users, only two entry and exit points should be utilized instead of the current four toll plazas.

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The Perak customs department has reported the seizure of 28 luxury vehicles with unpaid duties totalling RM10.4 million during the first two months of the year, according to state director Abdul Ghafar Mohamad.

Ghafar mentioned that the enforcement division conducted raids at 12 locations across Perak and Selangor, resulting in the confiscation of vehicles such as Porsche, Lamborghini, and Mercedes-Benz models.

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