Local News Archives

Malaysian Automotive Market Faces Slowdown After Promising Start in 2024

Despite a robust beginning to the year, experts are anticipating a slowdown in the Malaysian automotive market’s Total Industry Volume (TIV) in the months ahead. The surge in consumer demand and festive season purchases that fuelled the industry’s momentum in the first four months of the year is expected to wane as 2024 progresses.

In 2023, Malaysia witnessed a record-high TIV of nearly 800,000 units, setting a benchmark for the industry. The positive trend continued into 2024, with the TIV for the first four months (4M24) growing by 8% to reach 260,236 units, compared to 240,417 units in the same period in 2023, as reported by The Star.

Angeline Chin, an analyst at TA Research, attributes the strong performance in April to the traditional spike in sales during the Hari Raya festive season. However, she anticipates a gradual slowdown in sales moving forward, with consumers adopting a cautious stance, particularly regarding electric vehicles (EVs).

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WTCA Unveils GAC AION Y Plus Electric Crossover – 204PS, 490km NEDC Driving Range

WTCA, a subsidiary of Warisan TC Holdings Bhd and the exclusive distributor of GAC AION electric vehicles (EVs) in Malaysia, has officially introduced the 2024 GAC AION Y Plus all-electric crossover model to the Malaysian market. The unveiling took place during the Press Day of the Malaysia Autoshow 2024, organised by the Malaysia Automotive Robotics & loT Institute (MARii) at MAEPS, Serdang.

Available in ‘Elite’ and ‘Premium’ variants, the GAC AION Y Plus marks WTCA’s debut in the EV segment with accessible price tags of RM119,800.00 (Elite) and RM135,800.00 (Premium). Malaysian consumers can choose from seven vibrant exterior colour options and five interior colour choices, providing a total of 35 combinations to suit individual preferences.

Both the Elite and Premium variants share the same front-mounted e-motor rated at 204PS and 225NM that drive the front wheels. This setup grants the GAC AION Y Plus with respectably zippy performance as demonstrated by its 0-100km/h acceleration time of 8.5 seconds. Crucially, the e-motor is also endowed with versatility thanks to the offer of up to four selectable driving modes, including an ‘i-Pedal’ single-pedal driving mode.

For its exterior design, the GAC AION Y Plus merges both trendy SUV elements with a dash of high-tech intelligence. Key design touches include Angel Wing LED headlights, Skyline through-type LED taillights, powered stow-away door handles, a panoramic sunroof present across both variants, as well as 17-inch (Elite) and 18-inch (Premium) alloy wheels design.

Underpinning the AEP 2.0 dedicated EV platform, said construct also houses GAC’s innovative 63.2 kWh Magazine Battery 2.0. With each full charge, this lithium iron phosphate (LFP) type battery is capable at delivering up to 490km (NEDC) of driving range. As for charging, the both 6.6 KW AC (Type 2) and up to 80 kW DC fast-charging (CCS2) inputs are accepted.

The GAC AION Y Plus presents a spacious cabin packed with premium amenities and features tailored to diverse urban lifestyles. Its six-way power-adjustable driver seat ensures comfort, while the 10.25-inch digital instrumentation offers essential vehicle information at a glance. Keyless entry adds convenience, complemented by automatic climate control with dedicated rear vents and a built-in PM2.5 air filter for a pleasant interior environment.

Entertainment and connectivity are handled by a 14.6-inch touchscreen infotainment system, boasting Apple CarPlay functionality. The Premium variant elevates the experience with driver seat ventilation, a power-adjustable front passenger seat, and a wireless smartphone charging pad. Ambient lighting with music mode enhances the cabin’s ambiance, while split-folding rear seats expand cargo space up to 1,200 litres.

Safety features include six airbags, ABS, VDC, HHC, 360-degree View Monitor, and TPMS, standard across both variants. The Premium variant further enhances safety with Level 2 semi-autonomous driving capabilities, including ACC with Stop & Go function, FCW, AEB, LDW with LKA, and TJA.

The firm spent the last four months establishing its network of 21 new showrooms and service centres nationwide, and more are set to become operational within this year.

Mercedes-Benz Malaysia Introduces Four New EQE Variants – SUVs and Sedans

Mercedes-Benz Malaysia has expanded its lineup with the launch of four new EQE variants, alongside the introduction of the Star Elegance lifestyle retail concept at Hap Seng Star Bukit Tinggi. The EQE sedan offers the essential functions of the EQS in a slightly more compact format, featuring a sporty ‘purpose design’ with characteristic elements of Mercedes-Benz EQ.

This includes one-bow lines and a cab-forward design that emphasises sensual purity with generously modelled surfaces, reduced joints, and seamless transitions. The vehicle has short overhangs, a short front end, and a dynamic rear with a sharp spoiler. The battery provides a usable energy content of 90.56 kWh, offering a range of up to 682 km according to WLTP.

The base variant, the Mercedes-Benz EQE 350+ Electric Art Line, boasts an Electric Art exterior and interior, 19-inch 5-twin-spoke light-alloy wheels, ARTICO man-made leather black/space grey upholstery, and an Advanced Sound System. It includes an AC onboard charging system capable of charging up to 22 kW. Other features include DIGITAL LIGHT, a Driving Assistance Package, laser-cut backlit trim with Mercedes-Benz pattern, active ambient lighting, KEYLESS-GO Comfort Package, and a Parking Package with a 360° camera.

The Mercedes-Benz EQE 350+ AMG Line enhances the experience with a panoramic sunroof, a radiator grille with the Mercedes-Benz pattern, rear axle steering with up to 10° adjustment, AIRMATIC air suspension, and an electric charging socket flap. This model also includes an AC onboard charging system with up to 22 kW capacity, setting a benchmark for electric luxury business sedans in Malaysia.

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Jaecoo Previews the J6 and J7 PHEV for Malaysian Market

In a previous article, we mentioned that the Jaecoo J6 also known as the iCar 03 in China, is confirmed for its arrival in the Malaysian market. At the 2024 Malaysia Autoshow, Jaecoo revealed the J6. However, there was no confirmation regarding the specifications that we would be getting.

From what we know, with dimensions measuring 4,406mm in length, 1,910mm in width, and 1,715mm in height, it offers a spacious interior and a relatively long wheelbase of 2,715mm. While slightly shorter than its counterpart, the J7, the J6 boasts a wider and taller stance.

In China, it comes with a choice of rear or all-wheel drive electric motor configurations. The dual motor version delivers 279PS and accelerates from 0-100km/h in 6.5 seconds, with a limited top speed of 150km/h. It is equipped with a 69.8-kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery supplied by CATL, offering a range of up to 501km according to the CLTC standard.

Adding on to the off-roading domination route, Jaecoo revealed the J7 PHEV. The Jaecoo J7 PHEV features a design that closely mirrors the non-hybrid J7, but it distinguishes itself with more premium and sporty accents.

This plug-in hybrid vehicle is equipped with a 1.5-litre TGDi petrol engine and a front-mounted single electric motor, together generating a total output of 347hp and 525 Nm of torque. This powertrain is coupled with a Dedicated Hybrid Transmission (DHT), which is designed to optimise efficiency and performance.

In terms of fuel efficiency, the Jaecoo J7 PHEV boasts a claimed consumption rate of 20.4 km/l. It can travel up to 88km on electric power alone, making it suitable for daily commutes without relying on petrol. Although details about the DC fast charging rate and speeds have not been disclosed, the vehicle does support this feature. Additionally, it includes a vehicle-to-load (V2L) function, which allows users to power external appliances directly from the vehicle.

Pricing and further details about its market availability are expected to be announced soon, along with specific information on its charging capabilities.

Jaecoo J6

Jaecoo J7 PHEV

Neta X Battery-Electric SUV Officially Launched in Malaysia – Lifetime Warranty For Early Birds

The Neta X battery-electric SUV has officially been launched in Malaysia, offering four variants: the 400 Comfort, 400 Luxury, 500 Comfort, and 500 Luxury. The pricing for these variants ranges from RM119,900 to RM139,900, with exact prices to be announced soon.

The Neta X is powered by a single front-mounted motor, delivering 163PS and 210Nm of torque. This setup allows the SUV to accelerate from 0 to 100km/h in under 9.5 seconds and achieve a top speed of over 150km/h. The SUV offers two battery options: a 52.49 kWh battery for the 400 variants, providing a range of 401km, and a 64.14 kWh battery for the 500 variants, offering a range of over 480km. Charging times for the batteries are approximately 9 hours for the 52.49 kWh battery and 11 hours for the 64.14 kWh battery using AC charging, while DC fast charging from 30% to 80% takes about 30 minutes.

The Neta X features MacPherson struts in the front and a multi-link layout in the rear for suspension. It has 18-inch alloy wheels with 225/60R18 tyres. The SUV offers multiple driving modes, including Eco, Comfort, Sport, and a one-pedal driving mode, and is equipped with an Auto Hold function for added convenience.

Externally, the Neta X is equipped with LED headlamps, tail lamps, DRLs, a rear fog lamp, and an LED high-mount brake lamp. It also features a panoramic sunroof, roof rack, and heated, auto-folding mirrors with turn signals. Rain-sensing wipers add to the vehicle’s convenience.

Inside, it is illuminated by LED reading lights and a luggage compartment light. The centrepiece of the interior is a 15.6-inch central touchscreen that supports Apple CarPlay, real-time navigation with location services, OTA software updates, voice control, online music playback, and Bluetooth connectivity. It also boasts an eight-speaker sound system for a premium audio experience.

The Neta X is well-equipped in terms of safety and driver assistance. The Comfort variants come with regular cruise control, while the Luxury variants include additional features such as forward collision warning, autonomous emergency braking (AEB), lane departure warning, lane change assist with blind spot detection, door opening warning, rear cross traffic alert, full-speed adaptive cruise control (ACC), lane keep assist, traffic jam assist, intelligent cruise assist, traffic sign recognition, high beam assist, and an emergency lane keeping system.

Neta X is available in five exterior colours: Pearl White, Sky Grey, Jet Black, Glacier Blue, and Amber Brown. Interior upholstery options include brown or black.

In addition, customers who reserve a Neta V will receive a lifetime warranty on the motor, battery, and motor control unit (MCU), awards through the Neta Loyalty Programme worth up to RM24,300, and a year of complimentary charging at any ChargEV station.

Perodua EMO-1 Prototype Showcased – 55.7kWh Battery, 160hp, 220Nm of Torque

Last year, Perodua provided a glimpse of how its all-electric path might develop in the future by showcasing that vision through its Electric Motion Online (EMO) concept.

This year, building on that, Perodua unveiled its first working electric vehicle (EV) prototype – the Myvi Conversion – and would be the foundation on which the compact car maker builds its electrification technology.

The EV prototype, which consists of three main parts, the power bench, the power converter and overall styling and design was made in Malaysia, with only the power conversion technology development done by an Australian company called EV North.

According to Perodua, this is “Episode 1” of a few episodes toward the end product. Perodua stated that they have more than 60 local vendors to supply the needed equipment. Perodua also noted that they are not collaborating with Toyota or Daihatsu because neither of them has an “affordable EV.”

For this project, Perodua has collaborated with three local universities. They assist Perodua in understanding BEV system architecture with a clear focus on HV components and powertrain. The reason behind this is to boost and build the automotive industry in Malaysia by giving the young minds behind the project more exposure towards the technicality behind building an electric vehicle.

Twelve engineers from Perodua were selected for their backgrounds in electrical, electronics and mechanical engineering and a budget of RM2 million was allocated for this programme.

However, the EV Myvi that you see here will not be the final product. It will have an all-new look. This EMO-1 (EV Myvi) is a fully functioning prototype to carry out test such as a 0-100km/h timing, which resulted in a 7 second benchmark. It runs on a single electric motor producing 160hp and 220Nm of torque and power is sent to the front wheels. The targeted top speed is slightly above 150km/h.

Electric driving range wise, Perodua states that the EMO-1 has a NMC lithium-ion battery with 55.7 kWh and is targeted to do 350km to 400km. Charging wise, it takes around five hours full charge up with an 11kW AC charging 50kW DC takes over an hour to do so.

As for the pricing, Perodua stated that it would be somewhere above RM50k but below RM100k. We are eagerly waiting for the second phase to commence to see this astonishing project develope further.

GWM Tank 300 Officially Open For Bookings – Est. Price of RM250k

Great Wall Motor (GWM) Malaysia has officially opened the order books for the highly anticipated Tank 300 off-road SUV.

The Tank 300, which made a strong impression during its preview in March and subsequent test drive in China, will arrive in Malaysia as a Completely Built-Up (CBU) fully-imported vehicle. It will be available in its non-hybrid form, powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged inline-four petrol engine. The estimated pricing has been confirmed, with the SUV expected to be priced around RM250,000, slightly below the earlier indicated price.

At the ongoing Malaysia Autoshow 2024, the Tank 300 is on full display, showcasing both its standard form and a specially-kitted version. The latter features body-coloured flares and distinctive accessories, such as an over-the-top (OTT) bonnet and a stylish aluminium storage box mounted on the rear access panel. However, GWM Malaysia has clarified that this black variant with Chinese-market accessories is intended to demonstrate customisation possibilities and will not be available through official channels.

The Tank 300’s engine produces 217hp and 380Nm of torque, coupled with an eight-speed automatic transmission and a dual-speed, electronically-controlled part-time four-wheel drive system. Key technical features include an all-terrain control system with nine driving modes and a maximum wading depth of 700mm.

Inside the Tank 300, the SUV boasts a luxurious interior with modern amenities. Notable features include a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The interior is adorned with Nappa leather upholstery, and standard equipment includes a nine-speaker Infinity sound system, automatic air-conditioning, and double-layer acoustic glass to enhance in-cabin noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) levels.

GWM Malaysia’s decision to showcase the Tank 300 at the Malaysia Autoshow 2024 underscores their commitment to bringing advanced and appealing off-road vehicles to the local market. As the launch date approaches, potential buyers eagerly await the arrival of this rugged yet refined SUV, which promises to offer a compelling mix of performance, technology, and style.

Expected to hit the Malaysian market in the second quarter of 2024, deliveries are slated to begin in July following its official launch, which is anticipated to occur next month.

Leapmotor C10 Previewed in Malaysia – Launching End of The Year

Stellantis recently announced the start of operations of Leapmotor International, which is a joint-venture strategic partnership with Leapmotor, a leading EV technology powerhouse from China. Leapmotor International’s EV product offering is considered complementary to Stellantis’ current technology and portfolio of iconic brands and will bring more affordable mobility solutions to global customers in the fourth quarter with Malaysia included in the growth plans.

Zhejiang Leapmotor Technology Co., Ltd., trading as Leapmotor, is a Chinese startup automobile manufacturer headquartered in Hangzhou, China, specialising in developing electric vehicles. The company was founded in 2015, and sold its first vehicles in 2019. In 2023, Stellantis acquired 20 percent stake of Leapmotor, and plans to sell Leapmotor vehicles in Europe.

The Leapmotor C10 is Leapmotor’s first global product, built according to global design and safety standards. The C10 is based on Leapmotor’s self-developed LEAP3.0 technology architecture, featuring industry-leading intelligent electric technology such as central integrated electronic and electrical architecture, cell-to-chassis (CTC) technology, and its flagship intelligent cockpit. It is a fully equipped, family-centric D-segment vehicle with best-in-segment premium ride and handling experience, featuring up to 420 km WLTP range, and a 5-star E-NCAP rating.

According to Stellantis Malaysia, the C10 is expected to make it’s official debut here in Malaysia and the end of the year.

smart #1 Pro and Premium Variant Pricing Adjusted – RM20k Drop for Pro Variant

smart Malaysia has just revealed here at the Malaysia Autoshow 2024 that the pricing of the smart #1 pricing for the Premium and Pro variants has been adjusted.

This strategic adjustment, combined with a global price realignment from smart Global, reflects their dedication to providing exceptional value and fostering inclusivity within the smart community.

The new On-The-Road Prices (without insurance) of smart #1 Premium and Pro with Sales and Service Tax:

smart #1 Premium: RM209,000
smart #1 Pro: RM169,000

Existing smart #1 Premium and Pro owners are offered a complimentary 4-year service package as a token of appreciation for their loyalty.

Also unveiled was the new smart #3 SUV Coupe and bookings have commenced. The smart #3 has already garnered international acclaim, winning both the iF Design Award and the Red Dot Design Award, standing as a testament to exceptional design quality and innovation curated by the Mercedes-Benz global design team.

smart Malaysia Unveils the All-New smart #3 SUV Coupe and Commenced Bookings – smart #1 Prices Adjusted

smart Malaysia has unveiled the all-new smart #3 SUV Coupe at the Malaysia Autoshow 2024 and commenced bookings. Themed ‘Chase the Thrill,’ the event aimed to ignite excitement for the Premium Dynamic Urban Companion, where style and elegance meet personality and performance on the road.

The smart #3 has already garnered international acclaim, winning both the iF Design Award and the Red Dot Design Award, standing as a testament to exceptional design quality and innovation curated by the Mercedes-Benz global design team.

Customers who book early will receive exclusive smart official merchandise worth up to RM1,500. This limited-time offer is reserved for the first 333 pre-booked customers, with a refundable RM1,000 booking fee.

Just like the #1, the #3 also comes in different specs and configurations, including the top-of-the-line Brabus version. The Premium and Pro variant get a single motor driving the rear wheels which puts out 268hp and 343Nm of torque. It can go from 0-100km/h in 5.8 seconds, up to a top speed of 180km/h.

Meanwhile, the Smart #3 Brabus gets a twin motor setup putting out 422hp and 543Nm of torque. 0-100km/h takes just 3.7 seconds, up to a top speed of 180km/h.

The #3 has a front MacPherson and rear five-link suspension structure which translates to controllability and a more precise steering response which gives you a more flexible control of the car. The AWD version uses a thicker front and rear stabiliser bar which effectively reduces body roll and improves on the cornering limit.

The higher-spec variants support 22kW of AC Charging and up to 150kW for DC charging. The base “Pro” model only supports a slower 7kW of AC charging and DC charging up to 130kW. This gives us a 455km driving range for the Premium and 415km for the Brabus. With a 0.27 ultra-low drag coefficient thanks to aerodynamic optimisations, the #3 has a 15km driving range more than the #1.

The optimisations include aerodynamic rims, front and rear wheel wind deflectors, active air intake grille and wind blade air curtains.

On the inside, you get the smart intelligent cockpit. It comes with a multi-fuction leather steering wheel, turbine-style air vents, sporty seats with integrated headrest and ventilation (Brabus and Premium variants only). Also included is a 9.2 inch full LCD high definition instrument cluster, a 10 inch full-colour head-up display and in the middle, a big 12.8 inch central control screen. In the smart #1, the Ai partner was a fox, but in the smart #3, it has been changed to a cheetah. According to smart Malaysia, this cheetah resembles the sportiness and speed of the #3.

For the Brabus and Premium variants, the infotainment system is linked to a 13-Beats speaker sound system. Also available is a 64-colour dual-zone ambient lighting system, wireless charging with four USB ports and a centre console with a chiller.

Pricing Adjustment for smart #1:

smart Malaysia also unveiled a new, more affordable pricing structure for the smart #1 Premium and Pro models. This strategic adjustment, combined with a global price realignment from smart Global, reflects their dedication to providing exceptional value and fostering inclusivity within the smart community.

– New On-The-Road Prices (without insurance) of smart #1 Premium and Pro with Sales and Service Tax:

smart #1 Premium: RM209,000
smart #1 Pro: RM169,000

Existing smart #1 Premium and Pro owners are offered a complimentary 4-year service package as a token of appreciation for their loyalty.

smart Malaysia’s unveiling of the All-New smart #3 SUV Coupe at Malaysia Autoshow 2024 signifies a bold step towards electrification and innovation in the automotive industry. With its range of variants and cutting-edge features, the smart #3 promises to redefine urban mobility while the revised pricing for smart #1 models reflects their commitment to customer satisfaction and inclusivity. Customers are invited to book the smart #3 at authorized smart dealerships or through the Hello smart App and experience the future of driving.