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MCA Youth has called on the government to reconsider its decision to exclude tour bus and van operators from the diesel subsidy aid program, highlighting significant potential repercussions for Malaysia’s tourism industry.

According to FMT, Deputy Chief Chong Yew Chuan expressed concerns that without these subsidies, the cost of operating tour buses and vans will rise, making Malaysia less competitive as a tourist destination. This, according to Chong, threatens the livelihood of tourism operators and could have broader negative implications for the country’s economic growth.

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim recently announced that the Cabinet had approved targeted diesel subsidies for Peninsular Malaysia. These subsidies will benefit 10 types of public transport vehicles and 23 types of goods transport vehicles. However, the new diesel subsidy aid program, introduced by the finance ministry, does not extend to diesel motorcycles, caravans, motorhomes, and, notably, tour vans and buses. Eligible recipients under this program will receive RM200 monthly.

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Sime Darby Auto ConneXion (SDAC), the sole distributor for Ford in Malaysia, today unveiled the new Limited-Edition Ford Ranger StormTrak, strengthening its position in the pickup truck segment in Malaysia. In tandem with the new model launch, SDAC launched its online booking via shop.sdacford.com.my, allowing customers to book any of its Ranger and Everest models online with the Ranger StormTrak being exclusively available online, offering only 200 units.

A fusion of rugged capability, premium features and unparalleled technologies, the Ranger StormTrak is an upgrade to the well-loved Ranger WildTrak, catering to the multifaceted lifestyle of bold adventure seekers.

The Limited-Edition Ford Ranger StormTrak boasts a unique StormTrak Scheme for both its exterior and interior. Its features include 20-inch wheels with Asphalt Black matte paint and Race Red wheel inserts, a distinctive Storm Trak Scheme grille and bumper as well as new emblems and livery that signify its limited-edition status.

Inside, the attractive Storm Trak Scheme continues with a dashboard accented with Race Red stitching, seats featuring Storm Trak Logo, Race Red stitching and Miko suede inserts, elevating a premium and stylish cabin experience.

For enhanced functionality, the Limited-Edition Ford Ranger Storm Trak introduces several first-in-class features tailored for the adventurous spirit. These include Auxiliary Lamps to illuminate dark off-road trails, Zone Lighting to brighten the vehicle’s surroundings and cargo lights for added convenience when loading and unloading.

The innovation continues with the Ranger StormTrak featuring the innovative Flexible Rack System and Swing-in-Place Roof Rails, allowing for one-handed adjustment of the sports bar and supporting versatile loads up to 80 kilograms (dynamic) and 250 kilograms (static), ideal and practical for both adventure and work needs.

It also incorporates advanced technologies like the e-Shifter with a 10-speed automatic transmission, Auto Brake Hold and Active Park Assist 2.0, features found in the Ranger Raptor and Everest Titanium.

With strong emphasis on customer experience in both showroom and digital channels, SDAC provides customers with even more convenience through online booking via its website. With this upgraded platform, customers nationwide can browse and book for their desired Ranger or Everest. Customers who book a Ranger StormTrak will be entitled to the Ranger Storm Trak Windbreaker jacket, redeemable upon vehicle delivery, providing owners with a stylish jacket to go with the stylish Ranger Storm Trak.

Equipped with a 2.0L Bi-Turbo engine, the Limited-Edition Ford Ranger Storm Trak is priced from RM181,888.00 (on-the-road without insurance) in Peninsular Malaysia, RM188,288.00 (on-the-road without insurance) in Sabah, RM188,288.00 (on-the-road without insurance) in Sarawak. It is available in three exterior colors: Arctic White, Meteor Grey and Absolute Black.

Secure the Limited-Edition Ford Ranger StormTrak exclusively online at https://shop.sdacford.com.my/vehicle/ and enjoy a special booking gift – a complimentary Limited Edition Ford Ranger windbreaker upon vehicle delivery. Visit www.sdacford.com.my or follow.

Nissan, renowned for its innovation in electric vehicles (EVs), is poised to advance electrified mobility with its pioneering e-POWER technology. Edaran Tan Chong Motor Sdn Bhd, the official distributor of Nissan vehicles in Malaysia, unveiled the exciting potential of e-POWER to visitors and car buyers at the Malaysia Autoshow 2024.

The e-POWER drive system represents a breakthrough unique to Nissan, utilising a petrol engine and a Lithium-ion battery to power an electric motor that exclusively propels the wheels. Functioning akin to an electric car, e-POWER delivers instantaneous torque and boasts lower tailpipe emissions and running costs compared to traditional combustion engines—all without requiring external charging. Additionally, e-POWER incorporates regenerative braking to help maintain battery levels.

Nissan e-POWER stands out as an innovative and award-winning electric-drive powertrain, integrating an internal combustion engine with an electric motor. Notably, the wheels are solely propelled by the high-output motor, akin to an EV, offering immediate throttle response and impressive torque delivery. Recognised as the “Technology of the Year” by the Automotive Researchers & Journalists’ Conference of Japan (RJC) in 2021, the e-POWER system underscores Nissan’s commitment to technological advancement.

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Peugeot Malaysia recently celebrated a significant milestone by delivering the first batch of the all-new Peugeot 408 to 9 proud owners in Malaysia. The vehicle handover ceremony took place at the Malaysia Autoshow 2024, where the delighted owners received their brand-new Peugeot 408, marking the culmination of their orders placed since mid-April.

The all-new Peugeot 408 has garnered widespread acclaim and sparked considerable interest, with over 300 bookings received and counting since the commencement of order-taking. Impressively, 60% of these bookings are for the GT variant, while 22% are for the Premium variant and 18% for the Allure variant. This overwhelming response underscores the car’s unique position in the market, defying traditional categorisation and meeting diverse preferences.

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Applications for the Bantuan Subsidi MADANI (BUDI MADANI) Program, targeting private diesel vehicle owners, small-scale farmers, and commodity planters, will commence tomorrow.

Under this program, eligible recipients will receive monthly assistance of RM200, aligning with the diesel subsidy implementation.

Senator Datuk Seri Amir Hamzah Azizan, the Second Finance Minister, clarified that private diesel vehicle owners meeting specific criteria can apply under the BUDI Individual category. On the other hand, small-scale farmers and commodity planters are eligible to apply under the BUDI Agri-Commodity category.

To qualify for the BUDI Individual category, applicants must be Malaysian citizens who own registered private diesel vehicles with valid road tax. These vehicles should not be classified as luxury vehicles and must be under 10 years old. Additionally, the individual or their spouse’s annual income should not exceed RM100,000.

Applications can be made at https://budimadani.gov.my.

Ever since its grand entrance into the automotive scene in 2019, the Lexus LM has been the epitome of luxury mobility, setting the gold standard in its class. Branded as the ‘Luxury Mover’, the first-generation Lexus LM resonated deeply with discerning consumers seeking a vehicle that not only offered elevated transportation but also embodied comfort and luxury at its finest.

The Lexus LM made its mark upon release in China and several East Asian markets, including Malaysia. Combining flagship limousine qualities with the spaciousness of an MPV, it exemplifies Lexus’s premium luxury brand image.

The Lexus LM’s appeal lies in its design and sophisticated features, extending Lexus’ Omotenashi hospitality principles. Focused on impeccable comfort and passengers’ well-being, it sets a high bar for customers seeking class-leading vehicles to meet lifestyle and mobility needs.

Since its debut, the luxury MPV has achieved impressive sales, with 16,114 units sold globally, including 2,788 units in the East Asian region and 32 units in Malaysia. With the launch of the new flagship model in Malaysia, these numbers are expected to rise.

The new Lexus LM, available in two variants in Malaysia, caters to customers’ needs while enhancing the chauffeured luxury experience. Customers can choose between the four-seater Lexus LM500 or the seven-seater LM350h.

Both variants feature self-charging hybrid electric powertrains, ensuring quiet operation and refined driving performance with high efficiency. The LM500h features a 2.4L, 4-cylinder in-line Turbo Hybrid petrol engine with Direct 4 All-Wheel Drive, delivering 371hp and 460Nm of torque, coupled with impressive fuel economy. Meanwhile, the LM350h comes equipped with a naturally-aspirated 2.5L, 4-cylinder in-line full Hybrid engine, delivering power to the front wheels and striking a balance between driving performance and fuel efficiency.

The new Lexus LM exhibits a bold presence with attention to detail in its exterior design. Standout features include a redesigned frontal appearance with a new Spindle Body grille and 19-inch Multi-Spoke Mesh Aluminium Wheels. It is available in four exterior colours: Graphite Black Glass Flake, Sonic Titanium, Sonic Quartz, and Sonic Agate.

Inside, the Lexus LM offers comfort and opulence, with premium materials and thoughtful appointments. The cabin provides a modern, serene environment with minimalist aesthetics, allowing occupants to utilise the space as a living area or mobile office.

Additional interior features include a built-in thermistor for the steering wheel, an independent glass roof with integrated sunshade, and individual multi-operation panels for rear passengers. The LM500 variant features a 48-inch Ultrawide Display with dual-screen functionality.

The new Lexus LM350h and Lexus LM500h are priced from RM1,228,000 and RM1,468,000, respectively, reaffirming Lexus’s commitment to delivering excellence in luxury mobility.

GWM Malaysia introduced the Ora 07 just last month but back then it was introduced as a single variant. Now though, GWM Malaysia is building on that momentum with the introduction of the Performance variant that focuses on power and fun. Here’s 10 things you need to know about the latest variant.

1. The Ora 07 is GWM Malaysia’s second electric model after the Good Cat that was introduced in 2022.

2. The Performance model is focused on all-out performance and has dual motors fitted on either axle.

3. Owners will get to enjoy 402hp and 680Nm of torque while the acceleration to 100km/h in done in just 4.3 seconds while top speed is rated at 180km/h.

4. The Performance uses the same 83.5kWh ternary lithium battery pack as the Long Range model but because it is more powerful, it has a range of 550km on the NEDC cycle or 483km on the WLTP cycle.

5. As for charging, the Ora 07 can support AC charging of up to 11kW and DC charging of up to 88kW. This allows it to be recharged from 30% to 80% in just 30 minutes. It will take up to 15 hours to charge up the massive battery using AC charging.

6. In some markets, the Ora 07 is known as the Grand Cat or Lightning Cat.

7. The 07 also has a 3.3kW vehicle-to-load function that will let you power up some electrical appliances.

8. The 07 counts the Tesla Model 3 as one of its main rivals, but it is considerably bigger than the Tesla making it perfect for families.

9. Inside, you get a mega 12.3-inch infotainment system with Wireless Apple Carplay and Android Auto as well as a 11-speaker Infinity sound system.

10. The Ora 07 Performance is priced at RM189,800 and that includes a six-year or 150,000km warranty and an eight-year or 180,000km warranty for the battery and motor. GWM Malaysia is also offering a one-to-one battery replacement offer should the health of the battery drop below 70% during the warranty period.

When GWM (Great Wall Motor) debuted here in Malaysia in 2022, the brand revealed that the Haval H6 Hybrid would be entering the Malaysian market.

At the recent Malaysia Autoshow 2024, GWM displayed the Haval H6 Hybrid and it is slated to make its debut in the third quarter of 2024, after the debut of the Tank 300.

Before the official launch, here are 10 things that you need to know about the new Haval H6:

1. The H6 has a length of 4,683mm, a width of 1,886mm and a height of 1,730mm which makes it a competitor of the Proton X70, Mazda CX-5 and the Honda CR-V.

2. It comes in two variants which are the Pro and the Ultra and at the heart of it lies a 1.5 litre turbocharged inline-four petrol engine and an electric motor combination with a total output of 240hp and 530Nm of torque.

3. Power is sent through a two-speed Dedicated Hybrid Transmission (DHT).

4. The Pro rides on 18” wheels wrapped in 225/60 tyres and the Ultra has 19” wheels wrapped in 225/55 tyres.

5. The Ultra comes with a Panoramic sunroof and one-colour ambient lighting.

6. You get a big 12.3-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and for the driver, a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster.

7. The front seats are power-adjustable and ventilated.

8. To cool you down because of our current Malaysian weather, the H6 comes with dual-zone automatic air conditioning, a second-row AC ventilation outlet, a cn95 filter, and an air quality management system (AQS).

9. Safety wise, the H6 comes with six airbags, child safety locks, child seat fixing (isofix), an electronic stability program (esp), traction control (TCS), secondary collision mitigation (SCM), cornering brake control (CBC), rollover mitigation (RMI), hill descent control (HDC), hill assist control and USB power interface dashcam.

10. The H6 will first go on sale here as a fully-imported unit (CBU) and later on, it will be locally assembled at EP Manufacturing’s plant in Melaka. Pricing will be announced during the official launch.

Great Wall Motor (GWM) Malaysia has achieved a notable milestone with 150 pre-launch bookings for the GWM Tank 300, marking a strong entry into the Malaysian market for this luxury off-road SUV. The Tank 300’s appeal lies in its rugged design, advanced features, and reliable performance, catering to Malaysian consumers who demand vehicles capable of navigating both urban and tough terrains. This success is indicative of the model’s resonance with customers prioritising adventure, durability, and versatility in their vehicles.

Special Offers for the First 300 Customers

GWM Malaysia has announced exclusive offers for the first 300 customers of the Tank 300, showcasing their confidence in the product’s quality and their commitment to customer satisfaction. The special package includes:

  1. 5-Year/100,000 km Free Service Package: Covers parts and labour, providing significant savings and peace of mind for the initial years of ownership.
  2. Lifetime Engine and Transmission Warranty: Available to first-hand owners with unlimited mileage, underscoring GWM’s confidence in the vehicle’s long-term reliability.
  3. Mystery Gifts: GWM has prepared special mystery gifts for these 300 owners, to be revealed during the official launch, adding an element of excitement and exclusivity.

Market Leadership and Global Success

GWM TANK is the leading off-road SUV brand in China, dominating over 50% of the off-road SUV market. It has maintained the top spot for 40 consecutive months and achieved over 400,000 global sales. This track record of success is a testament to the brand’s strong market presence and customer trust.

The public is being urged to exercise caution when purchasing used imported cars to avoid falling victim to unscrupulous dealers. This warning comes from Ahmad Aliff A S Ahmad Shariffuddin, founder of SCRUT, who highlighted several common scams in the used car trade, such as odometer fraud, vehicles damaged in accidents, and cars affected by natural disasters like floods.

According to Sinar Harian, Ahmad Aliff pointed out that many dealers do not inform consumers about the true condition of the vehicle, even though it may look perfect externally without any visible flaws. He noted that attractive offers and unreasonably low prices often lure consumers into these deceptive deals. Ahmad Aliff emphasised that for decades, car buyers have been deceived by unscrupulous capitalists in the used vehicle market, and he advised consumers to be more savvy and thoroughly check the vehicle before proceeding with any transactions.

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