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Malaysia to Phase Out Natural Gas Vehicles by 2025

Transport Minister Loke Siew Fook has introduced measures to phase out natural gas (NGV) for vehicles in Malaysia, marking a shift in vehicle fuel standards. Starting from 1 July 2025, vehicles powered by NGV will no longer be eligible for registration in the country, and Petroliam Nasional Bhd (Petronas) will gradually cease NGV sales at its stations from the same date.

In his statement, Loke highlighted safety concerns as the primary motivation, noting that there are currently around 44,383 NGV vehicles in Malaysia, representing a mere 0.2% of the total fleet, excluding motorcycles. Many of these vehicles are dual-fuel models equipped with NGV kits installed between 1995 and 2014, with NGV tanks nearing their 15-year safe usage limit. Loke further mentioned that some car owners have modified vehicles to use liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) cylinders, posing significant risks, as these have caused explosions during accidents.

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You Can Now Own the Batmobile from the Dark Knight Trilogy for Three Million Dollars

Wayne Enterprises has joined forces with Action Vehicle Engineering to create a limited series of 10 Batmobile Tumblers, meticulously crafted replicas of the model featured in Christopher Nolan’s Dark Knight trilogy. These life-sized, fully drivable Tumblers—while not street-legal—are officially sanctioned by Warner Bros., offering a chance for select enthusiasts to own a piece of Batman’s iconic collection.

Each Tumbler will be sold by invitation only, with an estimated 15-month build time from initial deposit to delivery. Powered by a 6.2-litre LS3 V-8 engine producing 525hp and paired with a 4L85E paddle shift transmission, the Tumbler promises impressive performance capabilities. While not equipped with all the functional gadgets of Batman’s original, it does feature a smokescreen delivery system and mock gun turrets on its exterior, crafted from Kevlar, carbon fibre, and fibreglass.

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JPJ Recalled 3,722 Vehicles: Perodua Alza and Aruz Did Not Meet Regulatory Specs

The Road Transport Department (JPJ) has recalled 3,722 vehicles, including specific models of Perodua Alza and Aruz cars, as well as Honda CB350R motorcycles. JPJ Director General Aedy Fadly Ramli stated the action was taken due to headlight height discrepancies on 2,518 Perodua Alza models (1500 X CVT, 1500 H CVT, and 1500 AV CVT) and 1,139 Perodua Aruz models (1500 X and 1500 AV), which did not meet regulatory specifications.

For the Honda CB350RS motorcycle, 65 units have been recalled due to issues with the wheel speed sensor, affecting the accuracy of the Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS), traction control, and speedometer readings.

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Settle Your Summons at Half Price: JSPT KL Announces Special 50% Discount

The Kuala Lumpur Traffic Police Department (JSPT KL) has announced a special 50 percent discount on traffic summons, available from 5 to 9 November 2024. This initiative, shared on JSPT KL’s official Facebook page, aims to encourage timely payment of fines while promoting cashless transactions.

The discount applies to all types of traffic fines, except those in specific categories. Excluded offences are as follows:

Accident-related summons
Court hearing summons
Non-compoundable (N/C) offences
Dangerous queue-cutting
Use of the emergency lane
Ignoring red light signals
Heavy vehicle/truck-related offenses
Vehicle exhaust modifications
Summons issued under ‘Safe Op’ status
Double-line overtaking violations

Payments can be made daily between 8:30 am and 4:00 pm, exclusively at the Tun H.S. Lee Traffic Police Station.

Jaguar Ends New Car Sales in the UK Ahead of Electric-Only Future

Jaguar Land Rover’s (JLR) ambitious “Reimagine” strategy, announced nearly four years ago, is fast approaching a major milestone: transforming Jaguar into an all-electric luxury brand by 2025. While the company has not yet unveiled any new electric models, the transition away from combustion engines is in full swing. As of this November, Jaguar has officially stopped selling new cars with conventional powertrains in the UK.

In a recent statement, JLR confirmed the halt: “From November 2024, new Jaguar sales will come to an end. We have now ceased allocation of our current generation of Jaguar vehicles.” This decision means that models like the E-Pace, XE, XF, and F-Type—already phased out—are now joined by the F-Pace SUV, the final model of Jaguar’s internal combustion era in the UK.

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Porsche Unveils the New 911 Carrera T: A Purist’s Dream

Porsche has expanded its 911 model lineup with the launch of the new 911 Carrera T, designed for driving purists seeking agility, reduced weight, and an immersive sound experience. This latest edition focuses on essentials, featuring a six-speed manual transmission and, for the first time, is available as both a coupé and a cabriolet.

Power and Precision

The Carrera T derives its power from Porsche’s 3.0-litre six-cylinder twin-turbo boxer engine, producing 394PS and 450Nm of torque. Equipped with the Sport Chrono Package as standard, the 911 Carrera T can sprint from 0-100 km/h in 4.5 seconds (4.7 seconds in the cabriolet) and reaches a top speed of 295km/h (293km/h for the cabriolet). Its lightweight design, aided by reduced insulation and full bucket seats, trims the weight down to 1,478 kilograms, making it over 40 kg lighter than the standard 911 Carrera.

Enhanced Handling and Chassis Dynamics

The Carrera T benefits from Porsche’s rear-axle steering as standard, allowing for sharper cornering and increased stability. Its adaptive sports suspension, lowered by 10 mm, is precisely tuned for a sportier ride, while anti-roll bars at the front and rear further improve handling. Fitted with 20/21-inch Carrera S light alloy wheels, the car is optimised for responsiveness.

Distinctive Styling

Exterior details, including accents in Vanadium Grey and a redesigned spoiler lip borrowed from the Carrera GTS, set the Carrera T apart. Colour choices span from Porsche’s unique Legends and Dreams palettes, along with bespoke options through Porsche’s Paint to Sample programme. Inside, the Carrera T features black trim, contrasting stitching, and a dashboard stopwatch from the Sport Chrono Package, evoking classic Porsche styling.

Interior Exclusivity

For added refinement, Porsche offers the Carrera T design package, introducing Gentian Blue accents across the car’s interior, seat belts, and headrests. The cabin’s sporty aesthetic is completed with a walnut gear knob and tartan-patterned seat centres, while the standard GT sports steering wheel includes a mode switch for added versatility. Seat choices include the standard four-way adjustable sports seats, with options for Adaptive Sports Seats Plus or lightweight full bucket seats.

By prioritising dynamic performance and offering unique customisation options, the new Porsche 911 Carrera T brings a distinctly purist experience for drivers, making it an ideal choice for those who value the essence of driving.

Volkswagen Proposes 10% Wage Cut to Union Amid Financial Struggles

Volkswagen Group is seeking significant cost reductions as it faces declining demand, rising expenses, and mounting competition. The automaker has proposed a 10 per cent wage reduction for its union employees after IG Metall, the union representing Volkswagen’s workforce, requested a seven per cent raise. This wage cut comes as part of broader measures Volkswagen is considering to address financial difficulties, which include restructuring bonuses and possibly eliminating anniversary and monthly bonuses.

Despite these proposed changes, Volkswagen’s CEO Thomas Schafer has not ruled out more drastic options, such as plant closures, if cost-cutting goals are not met through negotiations. “Successful operations are a prerequisite for job security,” said Arne Meiswinkel, VW’s lead negotiator, highlighting the necessity for lower labour costs to stabilise the company.

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Penang JPJ Issues 35 Summonses in Special Operation Targeting Long-Distance Bus Drivers

The Penang Road Transport Department (JPJ) issued 35 summonses to express and tourist bus drivers in a focused enforcement operation at Juru and Sungai Dua Toll Plazas early today. The violations involved drivers who failed to have a required second driver on routes over 300km or exceeded the maximum four-hour continuous driving limit.

Running from 11 p.m. to 6 a.m., the special operation engaged 20 JPJ personnel and aimed to monitor compliance with road safety regulations. Alongside the summonses, Penang JPJ identified additional offences, such as failure to update driver logbooks, insufficient vehicle maintenance, and technical infractions.

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Hyundai Rotem Unveils Hydrogen-Powered K3 Battle Tank for South Korea’s Next-Generation Military

Hyundai Rotem, a subsidiary of South Korea’s Hyundai Group, has announced a pioneering development for the Republic of Korea (ROK) Army: a hydrogen-powered K3 main battle tank. Set to be among the most advanced military vehicles in the world, the K3 aims to redefine future warfare by leveraging eco-friendly fuel cells, autonomous technologies, and advanced firepower.

Hyundai Rotem’s K3 project is a collaborative effort with South Korea’s Agency for Defence Development and other national research institutions, with production tentatively scheduled to begin by 2040. The shift to hydrogen marks a historic step in South Korea’s commitment to reduce reliance on traditional combustion engines in defence equipment. The K3’s hydrogen fuel cell will eventually replace the diesel engines of the ROK’s K-series tanks, beginning with hybrid prototypes that combine hydrogen and diesel power.

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Review: The Jaecoo Omoda C9 is Luxurious and Affordable

The SUV market in Malaysia is currently being flooded by various brands, most of them from China, so we do not blame you for not knowing which one to choose. If you’re looking for an SUV, it means you probably want something that can carry your family, or you might just be an SUV enthusiast.

The price point is the main factor that plays a huge role in selecting one. Which one of these big boys is affordable and can still make you feel like a boss? You have options like the Toyota Harrier, the Proton X90, the Chery Tiggo 8, and so on. However, there is a brand that is currently growing here: Jaecoo. I’m pretty sure you have seen a few Jaecoo J7s on the road.

If you didn’t already know, Jaecoo is the luxury division of Chery. Now, the naming of these models might be confusing, as Omoda is associated with the Chery Omoda 5 and E5. But just recently, Jaecoo unveiled the Omoda C9, a coupé SUV under the Jaecoo name and not Chery. This is because the C9 is meant to be a luxurious model, which Jaecoo handles.

Futuristic Design
Taking cues from the Omoda 5, the C9 is a more refined and mature-looking SUV. It also displays a futuristic and luxurious look that would definitely turn heads. The section that attracted me was the front design. It has a mean and commanding look that would definitely scare me on highways at night. It features a unique diamond matrix grille, sigma-inspired daytime running lights, and adaptive LED headlights.

Moving along to the side, you’ll find a sleek, distinctive look with lines and curves that complement the overall futuristic appearance. You will also notice the 20-inch multi-blade alloy wheels and high-performance Michelin tires. The rear features LED tail lights and a tailgate with an auto-sensing function.

Comfortable and Luxurious Interior
Step inside, and you’ll know why the C9 is under the Jaecoo brand. It features active ambient lighting, a 24.6-inch HD display, and a spacious centre console equipped with wireless mobile charging and air vents.

The cabin is enhanced with premium soft-touch leather finishes, three-zone air conditioning with an air quality system, and a fragrance dispenser for added comfort.

If you’re built slightly bigger than the average human, just like this writer, you won’t have to worry about space because, during our drive, I was as comfortable as ever. To enhance this comfort experience, both the driver and passenger seats are ventilated, allowing us to cool our bottom and back.

Powerful Petrol Engine
The C9 comes with the whole package, including power. It is powered by a 2.0 TGDI inline four-cylinder petrol engine, delivering 257hp and 400Nm of torque. Yes, that is a lot of power for an SUV coupé.

This amount of power can be put down on any terrain because the C9 comes with not only Eco, Normal, and Sport modes, but also Snow, Mud, Sand, and Off-road modes, which means you can probably get out of most unwanted situations.

Crazy Amount of Tech and Features
Once you start to mess around with all the options and features available on the 24.6-inch HD display, you’ll feel a little overwhelmed. Why? Because there are so many things to fiddle with. One of them is your different drive modes; then you have the HVAC, seat ventilation, fragrance drive mode memo, wiper sensitivity, maintenance tips, suspension linking to drive modes, and many more.

Thankfully, not everything is only accessible through the screen; you also get physical buttons. Yes, in a 2024 vehicle, there are buttons such as the air conditioning knobs, the sunroof controls, and the drive mode selection knob.

Gear changes can be done via a lever behind the steering wheel, similar to a German brand. You also get paddle shifters just for the fun of it and a push-to-start button.

You also get a decent amount of storage space at the center console, and the armrest that houses a cooled compartment can be opened up to store your cold drinks. Another cool feature is the two options given to open the doors. You get the standard manual lever that you pull to release the door and a button that activates the electrical door release.

Safety at Its Finest
Safety is at the forefront of the C9’s design, with Continuous Damping Control (CDC) providing real-time adjustments based on road conditions to ensure a comfortable ride. The SUV is also equipped with level 2.5 Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), including Blind Spot Detection (BSD), Lane Departure Prevention (LDP), and Emergency Lane Keep Assist (ELKA). All these can be accessed through the main screen. It’s a good thing that we can adjust and set them to the way we want because not all of us use certain features.

You can also adjust the braking modes that function depending on the drive mode the SUV is in. There is also a built-in 540-degree around-view monitor and digital video recorder (DVR) for enhanced visibility of obstacles and blind spots.

Is the Ride Comfortable?
Comfort-wise, we have nothing to complain about because the noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) levels are decent. The C9’s adaptive suspension system, featuring MacPherson struts at the front and a multilink setup at the rear, enhances the comfort levels while driving. You don’t really feel all the bumps and imperfections that our Malaysian roads have to offer.

However, the only thing that was bugging us the entire time was the harshness of the engine sound. Each time you come to a stop and step on the gas again, the roaring sound of the engine is noticeable in the cabin. It’s a minor issue, and if you have songs blasting in the background through the Sony speakers, you probably won’t notice it.

The braking, however, could be improved. The gap between the brake lever and the biting point takes some time, as we tested a bit of hard braking and slow braking. So if there is a need for you to hit the brakes, you may need to do it faster.

Rear seat passengers do not have to worry about comfort either; there is an ample amount of legroom and headroom available. You have air conditioning vents in the middle and at the side pillars. Because of how smooth the ride feels, you’ll be able to sleep like a baby during long drives.

How Affordable is Affordable?
The C9 has not been officially launched yet. According to Jaecoo, the official launch will take place by the end of this year. Compared to the C9’s competitors, in terms of features, technology, and pricing, there’s no question why you shouldn’t consider getting one. Jaecoo has opened registration of interest for the Omoda C9, with the 2WD variant priced at around RM185,000 and the AWD variant estimated at RM195,000.

In our books, that’s a really good price range for the package that the C9 offers.

Specifications:
Engine: 2.0-liter turbocharged petrol four-cylinder
Power: 257hp
Torque: 400Nm
Transmission: Eight-speed torque converter automatic
Suspension: MacPherson struts in front and multi-link setup at the back with Continuous Damping Control (CDC) adaptive suspension
Price (as tested): Estimated at RM195,000
We like: Futuristic look, spacious, luxurious, and comfortable interior
We don’t like: The braking system could be improved