Maserati Corse has announced a collaboration with Sparco, bringing fans of the iconic Trident brand closer to the heart of motorsport. The partnership introduces two bespoke racing kits—“Replica” and “MCXtrema”—designed to embody the pinnacle of performance, innovation, and craftsmanship. This initiative celebrates a shared passion for excellence and reaffirms Maserati and Sparco’s dedication to pushing the boundaries of racing technology.
The collaboration underscores the seamless fusion of vehicle personalisation with racing gear customisation. Enthusiasts can tailor their Sparco kits to complement their Maserati vehicles, ensuring a cohesive and elegant synergy. Every detail, from logos to colour schemes, is meticulously crafted to reflect Maserati’s design ethos and commitment to quality.
On December 15, 2024, the ninth edition of Das Treffen—the ultimate gathering for Porsche enthusiasts—brought the karting circuit at Impact Speed Park in Muang Thong Thani, Bangkok, to life. What began as an intimate meet-up among friends with a shared love for Porsche, envisioned by founder Sihabutr Xoomsai (fondly called Tenn), has grown into a full-fledged festival celebrating the legacy, innovation, and community spirit of the Porsche brand.
Record-Breaking Turnout and a Theme of Exclusivity
Das Treffen 9 broke records this year, attracting 3,050 attendees and showcasing more than 627 Porsche sports cars. Enthusiasts travelled from as far as Singapore and Vietnam to be part of this vibrant celebration. The event’s theme, “Limited Edition,” added an extra touch of exclusivity.
A highlight was the showcase of rare Porsche models, affectionately referred to as “unicorns,” which included iconic creations like the Carrera GT (limited to 1,270 units) and the 911 GT3 RS 4.0 from the 997 generation (only 600 units produced). These vintage and modern masterpieces stood proudly in the heart of the circuit, drawing admiration from fans and collectors alike.
As the year comes to a close and festive celebrations take centre stage, Heineken Malaysia is reinforcing its commitment to responsible consumption with a series of impactful initiatives. To ensure safer holiday gatherings, the company is giving away over RM10,000 worth of Grab ride vouchers, encouraging Malaysians to opt for alternative transportation and prioritise safety during this joyous period.
From December 20, 2024, to January 5, 2025, partygoers can redeem two RM10 Grab ride vouchers every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday using the promo code ‘ENJOYRESPONSIBLY’—while stocks last. This initiative offers a simple yet effective way to ensure safety remains a priority as Malaysians enjoy the festivities.
“At Heineken Malaysia, we continuously introduce initiatives and collaborations to ensure our beers are enjoyed safely and responsibly,” said Martijn van Keulen, Managing Director of Heineken Malaysia. “Since 2010, we’ve allocated over 10% of Heineken’s media spend annually to advocate for responsible consumption, with a total investment exceeding RM9 million to date. From launching Heineken 0.0 in 2019 to partnering with Grab Malaysia, we’re committed to making responsible choices simpler and more accessible for our consumers.”
Honda Motor has introduced its latest innovation in hybrid technology with the world premiere of Honda S+ Shift. This cutting-edge system will debut in the company’s next-generation e:HEV hybrid system, making its first appearance in the all-new Honda Prelude, which is set to launch in 2025. The technology will subsequently become a standard feature in all future Honda hybrid-electric vehicles (HEVs).
At a recent press briefing, Honda detailed the advancements of its e:HEV system, emphasising its continued focus on delivering both outstanding fuel economy and exhilarating driving performance. The company’s signature two-motor hybrid system alternates seamlessly between electric and petrol power, optimising efficiency while responding dynamically to the driver’s inputs. The new S+ Shift feature promises to elevate this system by intensifying the driving experience and enhancing the emotional connection between driver and machine.
Unlike conventional hybrid systems, Honda’s S+ Shift introduces an innovative mechanism that creates the sensation of shifting gears—despite the e:HEV system lacking a traditional mechanical transmission. This is achieved through precise coordination between the engine, the high-power traction motors, and Honda’s Active Sound Control (ASC). The result is a sharper, more dynamic driving experience designed to evoke the thrill of a traditional sports car.
Great Wall Motor (GWM) Malaysia celebrated a significant achievement with the production of the 1000th unit of the GWM Haval H6 Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV) at the EP Manufacturing Berhad (EPMB) facility in Melaka. This milestone marks GWM’s growing impact in the Malaysian automotive landscape, demonstrating its commitment to delivering high-quality, eco-friendly vehicles to meet the nation’s increasing demand for hybrid mobility.
The Haval H6 HEV has quickly gained popularity among Malaysian drivers for its affordability, fuel efficiency, and reduced environmental impact. This achievement underscores the country’s rapid transition to hybrid vehicles, fueled by eco-conscious consumers seeking cost-effective and sustainable driving solutions.
Locally assembled in Malaysia, the Haval H6 HEV benefits from GWM Global’s engineering expertise and meticulous attention to detail. Each vehicle is crafted to meet stringent international safety and quality standards, ensuring exceptional performance and reliability. GWM Malaysia has emphasised that its production approach prioritizes quality over quantity, reinforcing its commitment to delivering vehicles that customers can trust.
Japanese automakers Honda Motor and Nissan Motor are reportedly entering discussions to merge under a single holding company in a bid to strengthen their position against electric vehicle (EV) industry leaders like Tesla, according to reports.
Reports also stated that the two companies are expected to sign a memorandum of understanding to establish the new entity. Mitsubishi Motors, where Nissan holds a significant stake, may also be included in the structure, potentially forming one of the largest auto groups globally.
Honda and Nissan issued statements addressing the report, clarifying that neither company had made any official announcements. However, they acknowledged their ongoing exploration of collaborative opportunities, leveraging each other’s strengths, as previously disclosed.
The Ministry of Works (KKR) is set to present a Cabinet paper next month on the future direction of the Multi-Lane Free Flow (MLFF) toll collection system. This follows a decision to cease ongoing negotiations with highway concessionaires involved in the project.
Deputy Minister of Works, Datuk Seri Ahmad Maslan, confirmed the move, stating that the ministry had issued formal notices to concessionaires, informing them of the decision to discontinue discussions.
“The negotiation process has not continued because today (yesterday) marks the final day. We have sent letters to the relevant companies to halt negotiations,” Ahmad Maslan explained during a press conference.
He further added, “The Ministry will prepare and submit a Cabinet paper on the direction of the MLFF to the Cabinet in January 2025 for review and approval.”
The announcement was made during a media briefing at the Malaysian Special Search and Rescue Team (SMART) Headquarters in Pulau Meranti. The event also included an inspection of the construction site for a disaster simulation project. Selangor JKR Director, Shukri Ishak, and SMART Commander Senior Fire Chief, Mohd Khairul Jamil, were among those in attendance.
Proton made history today as it took its inaugural step into the electric vehicle (EV) market with the launch of the highly anticipated Proton e.MAS 7, Malaysia’s first national EV. The launch, officiated by Prime Minister YAB Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim, marks a significant milestone in Malaysia’s journey towards sustainable mobility and a lower carbon footprint.
A Collaborative Effort for a Greener Malaysia
The Proton e.MAS 7 represents the culmination of over 700,000 man-hours of engineering and testing by Proton and its strategic partner, Geely. The electric SUV underwent rigorous trials, including 100,000km of testing across Malaysia’s diverse terrains and extreme weather conditions, solidifying its status as a groundbreaking vehicle.
The launch is aligned with the National Energy Transition Roadmap (NETR), which aims to transform Malaysia into a net-zero emissions nation by 2050. The e.MAS 7 underscores Proton’s commitment to contributing to this vision while also strengthening its position as a leader in the EV segment.
A Technological Marvel with Advanced Features
The Proton e.MAS 7 is offered in two variants—Prime and Premium—and is available in five distinctive colours: Platinum Silver, Turquoise Green, Slate Grey, Quartz Rose, and Lithium White. The SUV is built on the Global Modular Architecture (GMA) platform and is powered by an innovative 12-in-1 intelligent electric propulsion system. It also incorporates Cell-to-Body (CTB) battery technology and features the cutting-edge Aegis Short-Blade Battery, a next-generation lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery designed for exceptional safety, efficiency, and performance.
The e.MAS 7’s electric drive unit delivers 214hp of power and 320Nm of torque, enabling the SUV to accelerate from 0 to 100km/h in just 6.9 seconds. Its stopping power is equally impressive, with the vehicle able to brake from 100km/h to a complete stop within 35 meters. The Prime variant is equipped with a 49.52kWh battery offering a WLTP range of 345km, while the Premium variant boasts a 60.22kWh battery, extending the range to 410km. Both models support DC fast charging, allowing for a 30% to 80% charge in just 20 minutes.
Inside, the e.MAS 7 combines cutting-edge technology with comfort. Features include ventilated seats, a 15.4-inch 2.5K resolution touchscreen, 16-speaker Flyme Sound with WANOS System, and best-in-class 256-color ambient lighting. The SUV also offers practical storage solutions with 33 compartments and provides access to an integrated charging map, which covers over 1,700 charging points nationwide through partnerships with leading charge point operators.
Competitive Pricing and Special Launch Benefits
Proton has priced the e.MAS 7 competitively to ensure its accessibility. The Prime variant is priced at RM109,800, while the Premium variant is priced at RM123,800.
To celebrate the launch, Proton is offering special rebates of RM4,000 for the first 3,000 customers, bringing the prices down to RM105,800 (Prime) and RM119,800 (Premium). Additional benefits worth up to RM8,000 include a complimentary 7kW home charger, a V2L adapter, unlimited internet data for five years, and extended warranties for the vehicle and its high-voltage battery.
Future Plans and International Ambitions
Proton has ambitious plans to expand its footprint in the EV market, both locally and internationally. PRO-NET CEO Zhang Qiang shared that the company plans to export the e.MAS 7 to markets such as Singapore, Trinidad & Tobago, Mauritius, and Nepal starting next year. The company has also appointed 37 dealers nationwide, with 30 of them expected to be fully operational by the end of 2024.
With the launch of the Proton e.MAS 7, the company has set a new benchmark for innovation and sustainability in the Malaysian automotive industry, driving the nation closer to a greener, electrified future.
The Penang Road Transport Department (JPJ) seized 17 vehicles operated by foreign nationals during a Special Ops on Foreign Drivers (PeWA) operation conducted at Bulatan Tun Hussain Onn, Seberang Jaya, yesterday.
The enforcement effort, which lasted approximately three hours starting at 7 a.m., targeted road traffic violations by foreign drivers. According to Harian Metro, during the operation, JPJ officers issued 116 summonses to individuals from Pakistan, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Indonesia, and the Rohingya ethnic group.
JPJ Pulau Pinang (FB)
Range of Offences
In a statement released today, the Penang JPJ confirmed that the seized vehicles comprised 14 motorcycles, two cars, and a van. Some vehicles were also found to be using registration numbers that did not match their official documentation.
Mercedes-Benz Vans has announced the introduction of its groundbreaking Van Electric Architecture (VAN.EA), set to debut in 2026. This modular and scalable platform marks a significant shift for the brand, heralding a new era for both privately positioned and commercial vans.
The VAN.EA platform is designed to offer a clear distinction between luxury-focused private vans and premium commercial vehicles. In the private segment, the new architecture will cater to high-end markets with models ranging from elegant family vans to exclusive VIP shuttles and spacious limousines. By extending its portfolio, Mercedes-Benz Vans is carving out a unique luxury niche in the van segment, redefining the expectations of its sophisticated customer base.
