Local News Archives

BMW Malaysia Unveils the Enhanced BMW i5 eDrive40 M Sport – 340hp, 582km Electric Range

BMW Malaysia has introduced the updated version of the BMW i5 eDrive40 M Sport, setting a new benchmark in the realm of electric mobility. This visionary sedan, an integral part of the esteemed BMW 5 Series lineup, seamlessly blends enhanced charging capabilities and streamlined functionality with the dynamic performance and elegance synonymous with the brand.

The BMW i5 eDrive40 M Sport now comes equipped with AC Charging Professional as standard, boasting 22 kW charging capabilities. This advancement translates to significantly reduced charging times, allowing for a 0-100% charge in under 4 hours and 15 minutes. Additionally, high-power DC charging of up to 205 kW enables a swift charge from 0% to 80% in just 34 minutes.

In collaboration with leading local EV charging providers, BMW Malaysia ensures access to over 1,700 charging stations nationwide for BMW i5 owners. Partnerships with ChargeEV, Yinson GreenTech, JomCharge, Gentari, and others ensure seamless access to charging facilities, supporting the evolving landscape of Electric Mobility in Malaysia.

(more…)

Lotus Cars Malaysia Opens Its First Lotus Store At Pavilion Damansara Heights

Lotus Cars is strengthening its presence in Malaysia with the inauguration of its first Lotus Store at Pavilion Damansara Heights, reinforcing the marque’s commitment to the Malaysian market.

Spanning 173.58 m², the Lotus Store in Kuala Lumpur opened its doors 10 months after the launch of the first all-electric Hyper-SUV Lotus Eletre in April last year. The Lotus Eletre has been well-received in Malaysia, with 50 cars already delivered as of this month and another 200 cars on their way.

Designed to reflect Lotus’s new international corporate identity, the Lotus Store showcases two of the brand’s latest offerings in Malaysia – the Eletre and the Emira sports car. It also features a configurator room where customers can personalise and accessorise their vehicles, a dedicated wing for exclusive Lotus merchandise and apparel, and a well-appointed lounge area.

(more…)

Pasir Gudang International Racing Circuit Might Get A Revival

The Pasir Gudang International Racing Circuit, once a thriving hub for motorsport enthusiasts, now stands in disrepair, a shadow of its former glory. Despite its prestigious history of hosting international motorsport events, the circuit has faced significant challenges leading to its decline. However, there is renewed hope for its revival as efforts are underway to address its issues and restore its prominence in the motorsport world.

Established in 1986, the Pasir Gudang circuit enjoyed a prestigious status, hosting renowned events like the Malaysia Grand Prix and the Formula Three Motorcar Championship. However, its decline began in 1997 following a tragic accident that led to concerns about safety and track conditions, deterring motorsports organisations from participating in events.

Financial constraints and disputes over land ownership rights hindered efforts to revive the circuit. Despite attempts to attract investors and organise innovative events like night racing, the circuit continued to deteriorate, with structures falling into disrepair and vandalism.

(more…)

Financial Strain on Proton Suppliers Threatens Automotive Industry Chain

More than a hundred parts suppliers and vendors associated with Proton Holdings Bhd are facing severe financial strain due to escalating operational costs. Despite efforts by the Proton Vendors Association (PVA) to engage with the national carmaker regarding their challenges, appeals have gone unanswered, leading to a precarious business environment for suppliers.

According to NST, Datuk Liu Guoquan, president of the Malaysian Fujian General Chamber of Commerce, suppliers are grappling with decreased orders, resulting in financial instability. Proton’s failure to meet promised quantities of parts orders for its models, including the X50, X70, and X90, has led to a production output reduction of 30% to 50%, exacerbating the situation for suppliers.

The financial strain faced by suppliers poses a significant threat to the automotive industry chain, potentially affecting approximately 50,000 employees. Many vendors are experiencing financial losses and some are forced to cease operations altogether, raising concerns about the industry’s sustainability.

(more…)

Mavcom Unveils Revised Passenger Service Charges Effective From June 1, 2024

The Malaysian Aviation Commission (Mavcom) has unveiled revisions to the passenger service charges (PSC) for the First Regulatory Period (RP1), effective from June 1, 2024, to December 31, 2026. The updated rates aim to balance consumer welfare, promote sustainable recovery, and ensure financial stability in the aviation sector amid evolving market conditions.

Mavcom’s statement outlines the revised PSC rates, which vary based on departure and transfer locations within Malaysia. The rates range from RM7 to RM73 and include a security charge for airport security services.

The domestic departure PSC remains unchanged at RM11 for all airports except Senai International Airport, which operates under a separate rate structure.

(more…)

Malaysia’s Chance to Host Formula E-Prix Slipping Away

Malaysia’s chance to host the Formula E-Prix final next year appears to be slipping away, with Thailand emerging as a likely contender despite initial favour towards Kuala Lumpur. The delay in response from the Malaysian government has led to uncertainty, potentially costing the nation an opportunity to showcase its potential on the global stage.

According to FMT, Formula E extended an invitation to Kuala Lumpur to host the final race annually until 2030, but the Malaysian government has yet to respond. Formula E CEO James Dodd sought an audience with Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim to discuss the event’s benefits, but the lack of a decisive response has put Malaysia’s bid in jeopardy.

While the cost of hosting the event remains undisclosed, there are concerns about the financial burden it may impose, especially in light of other costly initiatives like the attempted bid for the 2026 Commonwealth Games. However, economic projections suggest significant potential benefits, including injecting millions into the local economy and creating thousands of jobs over the next decade.

(more…)

Drive Safe and Save with Michelin: Hari Raya 2024 Promotion

Michelin Malaysia is thrilled to introduce its Hari Raya 2024 Promotion, inviting customers to join in the festive celebrations with enticing rewards for an elevated driving experience.

Running from March 11th to May 12th, 2024, this promotion offers customers the chance to receive exciting rewards when they purchase a minimum of two (2) to four (4) units of MICHELIN Passenger Car, SUV, or Commercial Light Truck tyre models with a tyre size of 15” and above.

(more…)

myTukar Renames to Carro to Reflect Global Ambitions

myTukar, now known as Carro, embarks on a new chapter in its journey, signalling a significant move to introduce more of Carro’s advanced technologies, products, and services to Malaysian customers. This renaming process will see ‘Carro’ integrated across myTukar’s range of offerings, marketing materials, and physical signage throughout Malaysia over the coming months.

Carro stands as Southeast Asia’s largest and most successful online used car platform, operating in Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, Japan, and Taiwan. The Singapore-based startup is poised to achieve its highest-ever FY2024 EBITDA, nearing US$40 million, a remarkable leap from its FY2023 performance.

(more…)

Volkswagen Touareg Officially Launched In Malaysia – RM469,990

Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM) today officially introduced the all-new Touareg R-Line to the Malaysian market. The locally assembled flagship SUV comes with the recommended retail price of RM469,990, inclusive of the Volkswagen Assurance Package (VAP).

The Touareg, now in its third generation, is Volkswagen’s first SUV when it made its global preview in 2002. Over 1.14 million units have been sold worldwide, and till today remains a popular model at the top of Volkswagen’s SUV range.

The Touareg is powered by a proven 3.0-litre V6 TSI. The output of 340PS and up to 450Nm of torque is delivered to all wheels through an 8-speed automatic transmission and intelligent 4MOTION system. The system then allows the driver to select a mode that adjusts drivetrain characteristics to suit driving or terrain conditions.

New front and rear design adds to the Touareg’s commanding stance. At the front, the radiator grille, headlights and the front apron have been given a new look. The design of the rear end is also sharper with its continuous horizontal
LED strip for the taillight clusters. The rear Volkswagen logo is now illuminated in red, a first as this was previously only available in markets such as China and the US.

The R-Line trims combine stylish elegance with sporty dynamism, and includes 20-inch Braga alloy wheels, enhanced chrome detailing, and the ‘R’ insignia at the doors and emblazoned on the front grille.

The Touareg redefines lighting technology with the new IQ LIGHT HD MATRIX headlights, one of the best lighting systems in the world. This highly intelligent lighting system of more than 38,000 interactive micro-LEDs illuminates the road more precisely than ever before. Furthermore, entry and exit puddle lighting illuminates the ground by the doors with the Volkswagen logo.

Also included is Night Vision – a first for a Volkswagen here in Malaysia – which provides the driver with a better view of the road at night. The system uses an infrared sensor in the camera to detect thermal signatures from humans or animals up to 130 metres ahead to keep the driver aware of potential collision.

Riding on the Volkswagen Group’s MLB Evo platform, the appointments in the spacious 5-seater cabin reflects the premium position of the Touareg.

The highlight is the Innovision Cockpit – an intuitive combination of digital display panels merged to form a ‘one-screen design’. These consist of the 12.3-inch Digital Cockpit in front of the driver and the 15-inch touchscreen of the Discover Pro Max infotainment system with Wireless App-Connect and wireless charging.

An immersive “concert hall” experience is provided with the 730W Dynaudio Consequence sound system powered by an 80W amplifier. The system has 13 speakers strategically situated around the cabin with one sub-woofer located in the boot floor as well.

The 4-zone climate control (exclusive to the Touareg) will provide customisable, cool environment for front and rear passengers throughout the cabin. Rear passengers can also tailor the temperature, blower intensity and direction of the air to their preference. Active Climate Seats provide added comfort to front passenger and driver, especially during hot weather.

Air suspension with Automatic Self-Levelling is standard and provides highest level of driving comfort. It automatically adapts the vehicle height to match terrain conditions and can lower the ride height by 40 mm for easier loading or unloading of cargo. Wading level is an impressive 550mm.

Besides the Night Vision mentioned earlier, the Touareg is also supported by IQ.DRIVE, Volkswagen’s advanced safety technology which provides intelligent support to the driver to enhance motoring safety. The suite of active and passive safety systems also simplify driving, reducing fatigue and stress so the driver can enjoy the journey more. The system includes Adaptive Cruise Control ACC (with Stop & Go), Area View, Autonomous Emergency Braking Front Assist, Automatic Post-Collision Braking, Lane Assist/Lane keeping, Park Assist, Side Assist with Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Advanced driver attention & drowsiness monitor and a Tyre Pressure Monitoring System.

This Touareg generations were also the first Volkswagen model to be offered with Front Cross Traffic Assist, which uses the vehicle’s radar to monitor traffic approaching from either side at a junction. If there is the risk of a collision, the driver will be warned and if action is not taken, automatic emergency braking will be activated.

5 colour choices are available for the exterior finish – Lapiz Blue, Silicon Gray, Grenadilla Black, Oryx White and Dolomite Silver.

The Touareg R-Line is offered with the Volkswagen Assurance Package that includes 5 years free maintenance, 5 years unlimited mileage warranty, and 5 years complimentary roadside assistance.