English Archives

CATL Unveils Game-Changing 400km Range Battery for China’s Rising PHEV Market

CATL, the world’s largest EV battery maker, recently launched the Freevoy Super Hybrid Battery, a breakthrough product for plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) with a substantial all-electric range of over 400km. This new battery delivers an EV-like experience by offering ultra-fast 4C charging, adding nearly 280km of range in just 10 minutes.

This capability addresses common PHEV limitations such as short-range and slow charging, potentially transforming the hybrid market.

Gao Huan, CTO of CATL’s China E-car Business, highlighted Freevoy’s innovative design, including advanced surface modification for cathode materials and a high-voltage electrolyte formulation with a nano protective layer. These enhancements boost the state-of-charge (SOC) control accuracy by 40%, allowing for improved range and energy efficiency, as well as a 20% increase in hybrid power performance.

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Stellantis to Test Factorial’s Solid-State Batteries in Dodge Charger Daytona by 2026

Stellantis and Factorial Inc. have advanced their partnership by unveiling the next stage in their collaboration to develop and deploy next-generation electric vehicles (EVs) powered by Factorial’s cutting-edge solid-state battery technology. This builds upon Stellantis’ $75 million investment in Factorial in 2021, with the aim of accelerating the commercial viability of solid-state batteries in EVs.

By 2026, Stellantis will launch a demonstration fleet of Dodge Charger Daytona vehicles equipped with Factorial’s proprietary FEST® solid-state battery technology. This fleet will allow Stellantis to validate the performance of Factorial’s batteries in real-world conditions, an essential step in the move toward full-scale commercialization. Factorial’s FEST® technology delivers a specific energy density of over 390 Wh/kg, offering numerous advantages over traditional lithium-ion batteries, such as increased energy density, reduced weight, enhanced vehicle performance, and the potential for lower overall costs over time.

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Transport Consultant Criticises Focus on Road Projects, Calls for Public Transit Reforms

A transport consultant, Wan Agyl Wan Hassan, has raised concerns about the government’s focus on road infrastructure in Budget 2025, arguing that it provides only short-term relief to traffic congestion. He pointed out projects like expanding the North-South Expressway (PLUS) and constructing the Cameron Highlands bypass as examples of limited long-term planning. Wan Agyl stated that road expansions typically lead to “induced demand,” where more lanes result in more cars and eventually bring back congestion and pollution, as seen in cities like Los Angeles.

According to FMT, he suggested that funds would be better spent on enhancing Malaysia’s public transport system, including expanding the rail network and improving bus services. Wan Agyl highlighted Copenhagen as an example of a city where convenient and accessible public transit successfully reduced car dependence, and he urged Malaysia to follow suit for a lasting solution.

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SAIC Motor Malaysia Opens Bookings for MG Cyberster: All-Electric Roadster Set for ACE 2024 Debut

SAIC Motor Malaysia has officially opened bookings for the MG Cyberster, the brand’s first all-electric roadster, with an estimated price below RM350,000. The MG Cyberster will make its first public appearance at the Auto Car Expo (ACE) 2024, further solidifying MG’s entry into the electric vehicle (EV) market in Malaysia.

Iconic Electric Roadster Performance

The two-seater MG Cyberster offers impressive performance, featuring a dual-motor all-wheel-drive (4WD) system that delivers 503PS of power and a maximum torque of 725Nm. With a 77 kWh battery, the Cyberster can accelerate from 0 to 100km/h in just 3.2 seconds and has a WLTP-certified driving range of 446km. Charging is convenient with a 7 kW AC fast charger, which allows a full charge in approximately 10.5 hours. Additionally, it supports 150kW DC rapid charging, capable of charging from 10% to 80% in just 38 minutes.

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Subaru Unveils 2025 BRZ Series.Purple Special Edition

Subaru of America, Inc. has announced the release of the 2025 BRZ Series.Purple, a limited-edition model with a striking new look, enhanced features, and performance upgrades. Limited to just 500 units, the BRZ Series.Purple made its public debut on October 19 at Subiefest Texas, held in Dallas.

Distinctive Design and Accents

The Series.Purple stands out with its exclusive Galaxy Purple Pearl exterior. The special edition also features 18-inch alloy wheels in a new satin silver finish and black badging on the rear decklid, giving the sports car an unmistakable presence. Inside, the cabin is wrapped in black upholstery with distinctive grey stitching on the leather-wrapped steering wheel, door panels, shifter boot, and parking brake boot. The front seats, covered in Ultrasuede with grey leather bolsters, also feature exclusive grey stitching. Additional interior highlights include a red STI starter button, an aluminium shifter knob, and the STI short throw shifter with a Flexible V-Bar, all aimed at enhancing the car’s driving dynamics.

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Jaecoo J7 PHEV Previewed: Official Launch by End of 2024

The Jaecoo J7 PHEV, set to be officially launched in Malaysia by the end of 2024, shares a similar exterior design to its petrol-powered counterpart. Key differences include its hybrid engine, extended range, DC charging capabilities, and an external output feature that allows users to power electronics like projectors or kettles during outdoor activities.

Available in two variants, the Jaecoo J7 PHEV is estimated to be priced between RM170,000 and RM180,000. The All-Wheel Drive (AWD) variant offers seven driving modes—Economy, Standard, Sport, Sand, Mud, Snow, and Off-Road—while the Two-Wheel Drive (2WD) variant comes with three modes: Standard, Sport, and Economy. The PHEV is equipped with an 18.3kWh battery and a 60-litre fuel tank, producing 525Nm of torque. It also supports fast charging up to 40kW via a DC charger.

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Mazda Unveils 2025 BT-50 with Enhanced Design, Safety, and Functionality

Mazda has revealed the 2025 Mazda BT-50, showcasing significant design changes, safety upgrades, new accessories, and improved functionality. As Australia remains the leading market for the BT-50 globally, this versatile ute has cemented its reputation as a reliable partner since its debut in 2020.

This latest update, the largest of four since its launch, introduces a tougher and more powerful stance, building on Mazda’s ‘Kodo – soul of motion’ design philosophy. The bold, commanding exterior is most striking at the front, where the BT-50 features unique LED headlamps framed by a redesigned radiator grille and bumper, which includes an aerodynamic ‘air curtain’ to enhance fuel efficiency.

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BMW Marks 30 Years in Mexico with Exclusive M2 Coupe 30 Years Edition

BMW is celebrating three decades of operations in Mexico with the launch of a special-edition M2, the BMW M2 Coupe 30 Years Edition. Though the M2 itself is less than a decade old—having debuted as the F87 model in 2015—the limited-edition model honours the company’s 30-year milestone in the country, where it has maintained a strong presence.

The M2 30 Years Edition is a locally built vehicle, produced at BMW’s San Luis Potosi plant, and designed by Mexican native José Casas. Only 30 units of this exclusive sports coupe will be produced, one for each year since the first BMW 3 Series E36 rolled off the assembly line at the Lerma Plant in Toluca back in 1994.

This limited-run version comes exclusively with a six-speed manual transmission and will be offered in two matte finishes from BMW’s Individual catalogue: Frozen Portimao Blue and Frozen Pure Grey. Inside, the M2 is outfitted with carbon bucket front seats, offering an immersive driving experience.

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Volkswagen Faces Uncertain Future with Possible Closure of Historic Brussels Plant

Volkswagen’s iconic Brussels plant, home to the production of the Audi Q8 E-Tron, is on the brink of closure as the company struggles to maintain demand in a slowing electric vehicle (EV) market. The plant, which has been producing cars since 1949, could be permanently shut down, marking a significant moment for both the automaker and the European EV sector.

The Audi Q8 E-Tron was anticipated to be a major player in Volkswagen’s EV strategy. However, the plant’s production figures reveal a different outcome. Despite the facility having a production capacity of 120,000 vehicles, the numbers have been dwindling. In 2022, only 47,900 units were produced, dropping to 37,400 last year, with just 23,900 vehicles delivered so far in 2024.

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New R&R Stop Along CSR to be Completed by August 2025

A new Rest and Recreation (R&R) stop on the Central Spine Road (CSR) Section 4A, from Kampung Relong to Ladang Jerkoh in Kuala Lipis, is expected to be completed by August 2025. According to Datuk Seri Ahmad Maslan, Deputy Minister of Public Works, construction is slated to begin by March 2025, if not earlier.

“Currently, only the platform has been built, with work on the road leading to it expected to commence soon,” Ahmad shared during a Dewan Rakyat Special Chamber session, according to Bernama.

This new facility is part of efforts to improve infrastructure in Kelantan and will complement existing R&R stops at Gua Musang Utara and Gua Musang Selatan. The stops will be equipped with basic amenities, including rest areas, toilets, prayer rooms, food stalls, children’s play areas, and parking lots, all aimed at enhancing the comfort and safety of road users.

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English

CATL Unveils Game-Changing 400km Range Battery for China’s Rising PHEV Market

Stellantis to Test Factorial’s Solid-State Batteries in Dodge Charger Daytona by 2026

Transport Consultant Criticises Focus on Road Projects, Calls for Public Transit Reforms

SAIC Motor Malaysia Opens Bookings for MG Cyberster: All-Electric Roadster Set for ACE 2024 Debut

Iconic Electric Roadster Performance

Subaru Unveils 2025 BRZ Series.Purple Special Edition

Jaecoo J7 PHEV Previewed: Official Launch by End of 2024

Mazda Unveils 2025 BT-50 with Enhanced Design, Safety, and Functionality

BMW Marks 30 Years in Mexico with Exclusive M2 Coupe 30 Years Edition

Volkswagen Faces Uncertain Future with Possible Closure of Historic Brussels Plant

New R&R Stop Along CSR to be Completed by August 2025

CATL Unveils Game-Changing 400km Range Battery for China’s Rising PHEV Market

Stellantis to Test Factorial’s Solid-State Batteries in Dodge Charger Daytona by 2026

Transport Consultant Criticises Focus on Road Projects, Calls for Public Transit Reforms

SAIC Motor Malaysia Opens Bookings for MG Cyberster: All-Electric Roadster Set for ACE 2024 Debut

Subaru Unveils 2025 BRZ Series.Purple Special Edition

Jaecoo J7 PHEV Previewed: Official Launch by End of 2024

Mazda Unveils 2025 BT-50 with Enhanced Design, Safety, and Functionality

BMW Marks 30 Years in Mexico with Exclusive M2 Coupe 30 Years Edition

Volkswagen Faces Uncertain Future with Possible Closure of Historic Brussels Plant

New R&R Stop Along CSR to be Completed by August 2025

Archive

Honda Celebrates Launch of First Global EV Plant with Dongfeng in China

Honda Unveils Revolutionary S+ Shift Technology for Next-Generation Hybrids

Chery Malaysia Launches New Showroom and Service Centre in Glenmarie

Innovation Recognised: Berjaya Sompo Triumphs at Global Brand and Economics Awards

Drive Home an MG EV with Up to 20 Months of Free Instalments

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