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Selangor to Expand Glow-in-the-Dark Road Markings Initiative

The Selangor government has announced plans to expand the glow-in-the-dark road markings initiative to 15 locations across all nine districts in the state, aimed at enhancing road users’ safety.

According to The Star, Izham Hashim, state infrastructure and agriculture committee chairman, the initiative will be rolled out gradually and is expected to cost approximately RM900,000 in total. These glow-in-the-dark road markings will be applied to roads lacking street lights, covering approximately 15km of roadways in districts such as Sepang, Kuala Langat, and Petaling.

This initiative aligns with the ‘Selangor Bercahaya’ program, which has already installed 600 LED street lamps throughout the state. An additional allocation of RM1.5 million has been earmarked for more LED street lamps this year to further enhance road safety.

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Volvo’s Rebranding Strategy for Electric Mobility

Volvo is undergoing a strategic rebranding of its current electric vehicle lineup to better align with the naming convention of its upcoming electric-only models. Set to take effect in 2025, this rebranding effort will see the XC40 Recharge being renamed as the EX40, while the C40 Recharge will now be known as the EC40.

This renaming initiative aims to create a clearer distinction between Volvo’s electric vehicles and their petrol-powered counterparts. While the traditional XC40 name will remain unchanged for the petrol version, the new nomenclature will bring consistency across Volvo’s electric lineup, aligning it with upcoming models such as the EX30 and EX90, which are slated for release in the first half of this year.

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Porsche Panamera Hybrid Expansion: New E-Hybrid Models Set to Electrify Lineup

Porsche introduced the latest iteration of the Panamera last year, featuring refreshed styling, an updated interior, and a power boost. Initially, Porsche showcased the base V-6 model and the top-tier Turbo E-Hybrid variant. Now, hybrid powertrains are expanding throughout the lineup, with the introduction of the Panamera 4 E-Hybrid and 4S E-Hybrid models.

The new E-Hybrid models are powered by a revised turbocharged 2.9-litre V-6 engine. While the V-6 generates 348hp in the non-hybrid base Panamera, the 4 E-Hybrid’s V-6 engine produces 300hp. However, when combined with the electric motor from the hybrid system, total output increases to 463hp and 649Nm of torque. This represents an 8hp increase over the outgoing model, and Porsche claims the 2024 model will accelerate to 100km/h in just 3.9 seconds.

The 4S E-Hybrid, on the other hand, utilises the full 348hp from the turbo V-6 engine. Paired with the electric motor, which delivers up to 187hp, the 4S E-Hybrid generates a robust total output of 536hp, with torque remaining at 750Nm of torque. Despite being down by 16hp compared to the old model, the 4S E-Hybrid still achieves a claimed 0-100km/h time of 3.5 seconds, with a top speed of 290km/h, 10km/h higher than the non-S model.

Both E-Hybrid models feature the same new battery as the Turbo models, with a 21.8-kWh capacity. Porsche states that the 11-kW onboard AC charger can recharge the battery in two and a half hours. The electric motor is integrated into the housing of the PDK transmission, sharing the same oil circulation, which contributes to weight savings.

The E-Hybrid models can operate in full electric mode until the battery reaches a certain level of charge, estimated to provide an EPA-rated electric range of around 50km. The Hybrid Auto mode blends the petrol engine and electric motor based on driving behaviour and navigation, while E-Hold mode preserves the battery level and E-Charge mode uses the engine to recharge the battery.

Standard features across all new Panameras include two-chamber air suspension with adaptive dampers. The E-Hybrid models can also be equipped with Active Ride, utilising hydraulic pumps to minimise body movements and maintain a level ride during spirited driving.

Visual distinctions between the models are subtle, with the Panamera 4 E-Hybrid featuring standard 19-inch wheels, black brake callipers, and the 4S E-Hybrid equipped with 20-inch wheels, red callipers, and silver tailpipes.

The new E-Hybrid models come at a premium, with the Panamera 4 E-Hybrid starting at $117,495 (RM563,682) and the 4S E-Hybrid priced from $128,795 (RM617,894). Orders are set to open at the end of March, with deliveries slated for this September.

Proton Sets New Sales Record For Brunei – X50 Accounted for 60% of Total Proton Sales

In 2023, Proton achieved exceptional sales performance both domestically and internationally, with its sales in the Kingdom of Brunei Darussalam reaching a new record. Following a successful year, where the company surpassed 150,000 units in domestic sales, Brunei showed remarkable growth, setting a new sales record for Proton.

After selling 422 units in 2022, Proton’s sales in Brunei increased by 87% in 2023, with 789 units of Proton vehicles sold. This outstanding performance elevated the brand to fifth overall in the sales table, capturing a market share of 5.4%, up one spot and an increase of 2.2% over the previous year. The Total-Industry-Volume (TIV) for Brunei also saw growth, closing at 14,640 units for 2023, up from 13,000 units in 2022.

The Proton X50, which has been the best-selling Proton X-series model since its introduction in October 2020, emerged as the top-selling model in the B-segment SUV category in Brunei. With 476 units sold in 2023, the Proton X50 accounted for approximately 60% of total Proton sales in Brunei and secured the third position in its market segment.

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The BMW Premium Selection Showcase Returns to Bukit Jalil National Stadium

The BMW Premium Selection (BPS) Showcase by BMW Group Malaysia is set to return to the Bukit Jalil National Stadium from March 1st to 3rd, offering an extensive selection of up to 500 pre-owned premium vehicles alongside new models from across the BMW Group lineup, including the BMW 2 Series, BMW 3 Series, BMW 5 Series, BMW 7 Series, and the BMW X range. Additionally, a premium lineup of pre-owned Mini and BMW Motorrad vehicles will be available at the fair.

The BMW Premium Selection experience goes beyond just the purchase, service, and maintenance of the vehicle. It encompasses a complete 360-degree suite of privileges and services, creating a life cycle and ownership ecosystem where the vehicle is part of a value chain of ownership. The showcase reflects BMW Group Malaysia’s ongoing commitment to delivering the epitome of Sheer Driving Pleasure, even in the luxury used car market.

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UMW Toyota Motor Unveils ‘Beyond Zero’ Initiatives

UMW Toyota Motor Sdn Bhd (UMWT) has introduced its Beyond Zero initiative in alignment with Toyota’s global goal of achieving Carbon Neutrality by 2050. The event, held at the Technology Park Malaysia from today until 28 February, unveiled transformative initiatives demonstrating the brand’s commitment to sustainable and eco-friendly practices.

The event signifies the company’s promise to lead the way toward a sustainable and connected future, going beyond traditional automotive concepts to envision a society where individuals make choices aligned with their values and lifestyles. This approach, termed the multiple pathway approach towards Carbon Neutrality, aims to foster a sustainable environment while promoting individual happiness.

The event showcased UMWT’s dedication to aligning its practices with broader national and global efforts to combat climate change. UMWT demonstrated a multi-pathway approach to carbon neutrality, offering multiple electrification solutions tailored to meet the diverse needs of customers and regions.

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Volkswagen’s First Electric Wagon: The ID.7 Tourer

Volkswagen has transformed the ID. Space Vizzion Concept, introduced in November 2019, into the production version known as the ID.7 Tourer. This electric wagon marks Volkswagen’s entry into the electric wagon segment, joining the brand’s lineup alongside conventional estates like the Golf Variant, Passat Variant, and Arteon Shooting Brake.

Despite wagons typically being larger than sedans, the ID.7 Tourer shares the same length, width, and height as its sedan counterpart. With dimensions measuring 4961mm in length, 1862mm in width, and 1536mm in height, and a wheelbase of 2971mm, the ID.7 Tourer offers ample space for passengers and cargo.

While maintaining identical external dimensions, the ID.7 Tourer boasts improved practicality, with 605 litres of luggage space behind the rear seats, expandable to 1,714 litres with the rear bench folded. An optional roof box further increases cargo capacity by 460 litres. Additionally, the wagon offers flexibility for carrying longer items, with a load area length of up to 1948mm when the rear seats are folded.

Inside and out, the design remains consistent with the ID.7, featuring a longer roof and a revised rear section for enhanced practicality. The ID.7 Tourer inherits the optional panoramic sunroof with a polymer-dispersed liquid crystal (PDLC) layer, allowing occupants to adjust transparency at the touch of a button.

The ID.7 Tourer shares the same rear-mounted electric motor as the liftback variant, delivering 282hp and 545Nm of torque. The Pro version, available at launch, comes with a 77 kWh battery pack, while a Pro S variant with an 86-kWh pack is planned. The larger battery is estimated to provide a range of 685km per the WLTP cycle. Charging times range from under 30 minutes to reach 10 to 80 per cent capacity, depending on the battery size and maximum charging power.

Production of the ID.7 Tourer will take place at Volkswagen’s Emden factory in Germany, alongside the regular ID.7 and ID.4 models.

Hyundai Creta Sells Like Hot Cakes in India – One Unit Every Five Minutes!

Unlike our Malaysian market, the Hyundai Creta has achieved a significant milestone in India, surpassing sales of 1,000,000 units since its launch in 2015. According to Hyundai Motor India, the Creta is selling at a remarkable rate of one unit every five minutes! Alongside its success in India, the Creta has also seen exports of 280,000 units from the country.

The Creta accounted for 26.1% of Hyundai’s annual domestic volume in 2023 and held a substantial 30.7% share of the mid-size SUV segment.

Currently in its second generation in India, the Creta received a mid-life update recently, resulting in over 60,000 bookings for the new model. With prices ranging from Rs 10,99,900 (RM63,445) to Rs 20,14,900 (RM116,225), the Creta competes with several prominent models in the market, including the Kia Seltos, Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara, Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder, Honda Elevate, Skoda Kushaq, Volkswagen Taigun, and MG Astor.

The Hyundai Creta in India offers three engine options: a 1.5-litre MPi petrol engine producing 115PS and 144Nm, a 1.5-litre Kappa Turbo GDi petrol engine with 160PS and 253Nm, and a 1.5-litre U2 CRDi diesel engine delivering 116PS and 250Nm. Transmission options include a 6-speed manual, IVT automatic, 7-speed DCT automatic, and 6-speed AT.

Here in Malaysia, the Creta is powered by a Smartstream G1.5 litre four-cylinder petrol engine, which delivers 115PS at 6,300rpm and 144Nm of torque at 4,500rpm to the front wheels through a Smartstream Intelligent Variable Transmission (IVT). For Peninsular Malaysia, the Hyundai Creta costs RM149,888 on the open road before insurance.

Volkswagen Golf Edition 50: A 50th Anniversary Celebration

The Golf, an iconic compact car, is celebrating its 50th birthday with the launch of the latest evolutionary stage of the bestseller in Europe. With more than 37 million units sold worldwide, the Golf has become one of the most successful cars globally since its debut in 1974. To mark this milestone, Volkswagen is introducing pre-sales of the new Golf and Golf Variant models, which feature numerous enhancements and a next-generation infotainment system.

The new Golf and Golf Variant models boast a modified front end with newly designed LED headlights, including the top-of-the-range IQ.LIGHT LED matrix headlights with an enhanced main beam. Additionally, the IQ.LIGHT 3D LED tail light clusters have received a new design. Inside, a brand new generation of infotainment system with a faster processor and a free-standing touchscreen (12.9 inches) is introduced. The interior also features illuminated touch sliders for temperature and volume control, the latest digital instruments (Digital Cockpit Pro), a multifunction steering wheel, and the IDA voice assistant, which now integrates ChatGPT for a wide range of conversational capabilities.

In terms of variants, the Golf and Golf Variant are initially available in five equipment and four drive system options. These include manual turbocharged petrol engines (TSI) with outputs of 115PS and 150PS, as well as 48 V mild hybrid turbocharged petrol engines (eTSI) with outputs of 115PS and 150PS, equipped with a 7-speed direct shift gearbox (DSG). The special Golf Edition 50 model, based on the Golf Style, offers additional features such as 18-inch alloy wheels, tinted rear windows, an illuminated horizontal radiator grille strip, and Edition 50 logos in the interior. It also includes the new top-of-the-range “Discover” infotainment system, keyless start and locking system, driving profile selection, and more.

The Golf Edition 50 will be available with different drive versions, starting with the Golf Edition 50 1.5 TSI with 150PS and a manual gearbox, priced at 36,820 euros (RM189,891). An optional Plus package is also available, offering additional features such as a panoramic sunroof, IQ.LIGHT matrix LED headlights, and a head-up display.

Range Rover Evoque Facelift Now Available From RM498,800!

Jaguar Land Rover Malaysia (JLRM) is celebrating the Lunar New Year with the launch of the Range Rover Evoque Facelift. This updated model combines state-of-the-art enhancements while retaining the distinctive DNA of Range Rover’s compact luxury.

The exterior design of the Evoque Facelift maintains its iconic silhouette, enhanced by a redesigned grille, sleek Pixel LED headlights, and signature Daytime Running Lights (DRL). The chiselled front and rear signature graphics add to its jewel-like appearance, complementing the iconic floating roof and unbroken waistline. The car’s profile, characterised by its fast roofline and coupe-like silhouette, is accentuated by 21-inch wheels and a refined grille design, exuding robustness and sophistication.

Inside the cabin, modern luxury is exemplified by a new 11.4-inch curved glass touchscreen, seamlessly integrated into the centre console. The latest Pivi Pro infotainment technology, along with features like Wireless Device Charging and a premium Meridian sound system, ensures a seamless and comfortable digital experience. Additionally, the Evoque Facelift offers premium amenities such as an electrically adjustable steering column and satin chrome gear shift paddles.

Under the hood, customers can choose between the P200 and P250 models, each offering a unique set of features. The P200 model is powered by a 200PS 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine, delivering swift responses and efficient performance. The P250 model boasts 249PS and 365Nm of torque, achieving 0-100km/h in 7.6 seconds.

Safety remains a top priority, with advanced camera technologies such as the 3D Surround camera, ClearSight Ground View, and ClearSight Interior Rear View available on select variants to enhance driver reassurance and safety.

The Range Rover Evoque Facelift is available in three variants, priced from RM498,800.00 for the 200PS Dynamic SE (MSpec), RM529,800 for 249PS Dynamic SE (H Spec), and RM565,800.00 for Evoque 249PS Dynamic HSE (Lux Spec). The colour palette, inspired by the Year of the Dragon, includes auspicious hues such as Corinthian Bronze, Tribeca Blue, and Arroios Grey, symbolising prosperity and tranquility.

Customers can experience the new Range Rover Evoque Facelift at JLRM’s award-winning dealerships in Ara Damansara and Penang. These dealerships uphold global JLR standards, providing customers with personalised purchasing and ownership experiences, including personalisation studios for configuring exterior colours and interior upholstery choices.