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BYD to Complete $1 Billion EV Plant in Indonesia by 2025

BYD is on track to complete its $1 billion EV production plant in Indonesia by the end of 2025, according to Eagle Zhao, BYD’s president director in Indonesia. This move highlights the company’s ambition to solidify its presence in a market traditionally dominated by Japanese automakers.

Key Details of the Plant

Location: Subang, West Java, within an industrial complex.
Production Capacity: 150,000 EV units annually.
Timeline: Construction is set for completion by the end of 2025, with production starting shortly thereafter.
Export Focus: The plant is intended to serve both domestic and export markets.

BYD’s investment aligns with Indonesia’s EV strategy, which includes tax incentives and an import duty waiver for automakers to stimulate EV demand and attract foreign investment. The Indonesian government has set an ambitious target of producing 600,000 EVs domestically by 2030.

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BMW Malaysia Unveils Updated BMW 3 Series for 2025

BMW Malaysia has announced a range of updates to its iconic BMW 3 Series, blending sportiness with innovative design and technology enhancements. The refreshed features aim to elevate the versatility and driving experience of the mid-sized sedan for the Malaysian market in 2025.

Interior Enhancements

The updated BMW 3 Series showcases a modernized cabin with:

A new M Sport steering wheel with a 12 o’clock strap as standard, underscoring the sedan’s sporty character.
Geometrical air vents for a contemporary interior finish.
Finer grain material on the upper instrument panel and upper door panel cover, creating a more refined feel.
New geometrical surface décor trims featured in the BMW 330 Li variant, further enhancing its premium interior aesthetic.

Additionally, improved suspension adaptation enhances driving comfort and control, particularly on uneven or open roads.

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Public Transport Improvements in Malaysia for 2025: Enhanced Reliability, More Payment Options, and Increased Ridership

Public transport in Malaysia is set to achieve new milestones in 2025 with increased train reliability, expanded payment options, and higher ridership levels benefiting commuters and travellers alike.

Prasarana Malaysia Bhd, the operator of urban rail and bus networks, reported an impressive 1.18 million daily journeys across its services in 2024, marking a 24% increase from 2023.

Improving Rail Reliability

Transport Minister Anthony Loke emphasized the importance of reliability in urban rail and bus services, particularly through the mean kilometres between failure (MKBF) metric. This measures the distance a train line can operate without a disruption lasting more than five minutes.

The Putrajaya line demonstrated stellar reliability, achieving an MKBF score of 1.35 million kilometres—the highest among Prasarana’s five lines.
The goal is to ensure all lines surpass the one-million-kilometre benchmark by the second quarter of 2026.

To boost reliability on the Kelana Jaya line, historically Malaysia’s most-used urban rail line, 27 new train sets have been procured, with 23 already in operation as of December 2024.

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Mercedes-Benz Partners with Google Cloud to Revolutionise In-Car Navigation and Voice Assistance

Mercedes-Benz and Google Cloud have announced an expanded strategic partnership aimed at elevating the MBUX Virtual Assistant through advanced conversational capabilities powered by Google Cloud’s Automotive AI Agent. Built on Gemini, Google’s state-of-the-art generative AI model on Vertex AI, the Automotive AI Agent is specifically designed for the automotive sector. By integrating Google Maps Platform, it offers personalised, real-time navigation and point-of-interest (POI) insights to Mercedes-Benz drivers.

Enhanced Navigation and Conversational AI

The upgraded MBUX Virtual Assistant will enable natural, intuitive conversations, allowing users to ask detailed questions about navigation or POIs. For example, drivers can say:

“Could you guide me to the nearest fine-dining restaurant for a unique culinary experience?”
Follow up with: “Does the restaurant have good reviews?” or “What is the chef’s signature dish?”

Responses will include accurate, up-to-date information, displayed seamlessly through the vehicle’s native interface. Google Maps Platform powers this feature, delivering real-time data updates across 250 million global locations, refreshed over 100 million times daily.

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Porsche Rumoured to Bring Back Petrol-Powered Macan Amidst EV Strategy

Porsche’s commitment to internal combustion engines (ICE) appears far from over, despite its aggressive push towards electrification. Insiders have hinted at the possible revival of a petrol-powered Macan, a move that aligns with recent statements from Porsche’s Chief Financial Officer, Lutz Meschke, regarding hybrid and ICE developments.

Meschke stated “We are exploring the possibility of equipping some of the models originally planned only as electrics with hybrid or internal combustion engines. Decisions are being made that are only conceptual for now, but it is clear the combustion engine will remain longer than planned.”

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Jaecoo J7 PHEV Achieves Record-Breaking Range in Three-Nation Test Drive

Five Jaecoo J7 Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs) recently undertook a challenging journey from Singapore, through Malaysia, to Hatyai, Thailand, pushing the limits of the vehicle’s range and showcasing its impressive capabilities. All five vehicles surpassed the 1,200km WLTP (Worldwide Harmonised Light Vehicle Test Procedure) range, with the longest recorded distance reaching 1,427.5km.

The WLTP range, which measures the maximum distance an EV can travel on a single charge under standardised conditions, was significantly exceeded during the drive.

The drive also highlighted the vehicle’s exceptional fuel efficiency and range performance. The Jaecoo J7 PHEV covered 947km on petrol alone, while its pure electric range reached 108km, surpassing its stated specification by 18km. The vehicle also achieved remarkable fuel consumption rates of 3.5L/100km, significantly better than its standard 6.6L/100km, further underlining its efficiency.

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Proton X50 Sport Edition Officially Launched: Limited to 1,000 Units, RM105,300

Proton has officially launched the Proton X50 Sport Edition (SE), a special edition of its best-selling SUV that offers a combination of sportiness and sophistication. Built upon the solid foundation of the Proton X50 Premium variant, the X50 SE promises a more dynamic and premium experience, featuring exclusive enhancements both inside and out.

Since its debut in 2020, the Proton X50 has become a dominant player in Malaysia’s B-segment SUV market. The model has consistently ranked as the top-selling SUV, with over 128,000 units sold to date. The 2024 Proton X50 continues to hold the No.1 position in its segment, and the new Sport Edition aims to capitalize on the model’s success by appealing to customers seeking a sportier aesthetic, without compromising on the performance and technology the X50 is known for.

The Proton X50 SE stands out with several exclusive features that make it truly unique. The most prominent of these is the Aerokit, which adds a sporty flair with front, rear, and side skirting. The vehicle’s body is painted in a sleek Quartz Black, enhanced with glossy black accents at the front and rear, giving it an even more striking appearance. To complement the bold exterior, the SE variant is equipped with black 18-inch alloy wheels and distinctive body decals, ensuring it commands attention on the road. Inside, Proton has ensured that the X50 SE offers both sophistication and practicality. Notable upgrades include a wireless charger for seamless device connectivity, exclusive Sport Edition carpet mats, durable stainless steel scuff plates, and a boot tray for better cargo management.

Under the hood, the Proton X50 SE retains the brand’s award-winning 1.5-litre turbocharged engine. This engine delivers an impressive 150PS and 226Nm of torque, paired with a smooth 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (7DCT). This powertrain not only ensures a dynamic driving experience but also keeps the Proton X50 SE in line with its five-star ASEAN NCAP safety rating, which is a key selling point for buyers. In terms of technology, the SE variant features the latest updates introduced in the 2024 Proton X50, including a 10.3-inch infotainment system powered by a dual quad-core processor, which supports the “Hi Proton” voice assistant and the Proton Link app for remote engine start and cabin cooling.

For enhanced convenience, the X50 SE also comes with a High-Definition 360 Camera for safer parking, and its automatic air conditioning system ensures a comfortable cabin environment at all times. The driver’s seat is equipped with a 6-way power-adjustable mechanism, offering customizable comfort to suit different driving preferences.

The Proton X50 Sport Edition is priced at RM105,300, offering customers RM10,000 worth of added value. However, with production limited to only 1,000 units, the model is expected to be a rare find. To sweeten the deal, Proton is offering a limited-time rebate of RM7,000 for January bookings, bringing the total savings to RM13,500. Proton aims to make this limited-edition model even more desirable with exclusive features and a price tag that reflects its premium enhancements.

In conjunction with the launch of the X50 SE, Proton has also introduced the Test Drive and Win Festive Fortune campaign, running from January to March 2025. This campaign gives customers the opportunity to win a brand-new Proton X50 Sport Edition as the grand prize. Additionally, customers who visit Proton dealerships for a test drive will be in the running for monthly cash prizes of up to RM5,000. Those who make a booking and register a new Proton vehicle will automatically be entered into a lucky draw to win a RM10,000 travel package each month. The campaign will culminate in the awarding of the final grand prize at the end of March.

Roslan Abdullah, Deputy Chief Executive Officer of Proton, commented, “The Proton X50 Sport Edition is about offering more excitement for Proton customers by leveraging the popularity of the Proton X50, a crowd favourite since its launch. With the SE, we want to amplify that spirit by delivering a version that offers a more dynamic and sportier image, that customers have been longing for.”

Bookings for the Proton X50 Sport Edition can now be made online through Proton’s official website or at authorized dealerships nationwide.

ALPINA B8 GT: The Final Curtain for BMW’s 8 Series

As the BMW 8 Series approaches its swan song, ALPINA is sending it off in style with the ultimate iteration of the Gran Coupe: the ALPINA B8 GT Hommage. This exclusive model showcases the pinnacle of ALPINA engineering, blending luxury and performance into a truly limited offering of only 99 units. Among these, 20 will feature a rare two-tone Black Sapphire paint combined with Blue or Green II accents, making them even more coveted.

Under the hood, the B8 GT borrows the formidable 4.4-litre twin-turbo V8 from the B5 GT, delivering an identical 625hp and 850Nm of torque. Enhanced by ALPINA’s meticulous tuning, the car rockets from 0 to 100km/h in just 3.3 seconds and reaches 200km/h in 10.5 seconds. For those lucky enough to test its limits, the B8 GT achieves a blistering top speed of 330km/h on the Autobahn.

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Lexus Announces the Farewell of RC and RC F Models with the 2025 Final Editions

After a decade on the market, Lexus has officially announced that the RC and RC F models will be discontinued at the end of the 2025 model year. Having sold over 90,000 units across 62 countries and regions, these iconic luxury coupes will bow out in style, offering enthusiasts one final chance to experience their exhilarating performance and unparalleled elegance.

The 2025 Lexus RC lineup, featuring minor updates, and the RC F, offered exclusively as a mono-spec Final Edition, are expected to arrive in dealerships early this year. These models reflect Lexus’s commitment to crafting precision-engineered luxury with performance and sophistication.

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Subaru Unveils 2026 Crosstrek Hybrid: Enhanced Efficiency Meets Legendary Capability

Subaru of America has announced the arrival of the 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid, the third-generation model of the compact SUV. Set to debut in fall 2025, the new Crosstrek Hybrid boasts a next-generation series-parallel hybrid system seamlessly integrated with Subaru’s signature Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive. Combining efficiency with the brand’s renowned capability, the hybrid model is a significant evolution in the Crosstrek lineup.

At the heart of the 2026 Crosstrek Hybrid is a 2.5-litre Atkinson/Miller-cycle SUBARU BOXER engine paired with electric motors and a high-capacity, sealed lithium-ion battery rated at 1.1 kWh. The hybrid powertrain generates a total system output of 194 horsepower, delivering enhanced fuel efficiency without sacrificing the SUV’s off-road prowess. With 8.7 inches of ground clearance, the Crosstrek Hybrid maintains its rugged versatility, outperforming many full-size SUVs in terms of terrain adaptability.

Safety remains a cornerstone of Subaru’s design philosophy, and the Crosstrek Hybrid comes equipped with the latest iteration of the award-winning EyeSight Driver Assist Technology. The updated system features a wider field of view, improved control software, and an electric brake booster, enabling more accurate detection of cyclists and pedestrians. Additional safety measures include Reverse Automatic Braking, Blind-Spot Detection, Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, and Emergency Stop Assist. The latter is a groundbreaking feature that brings the vehicle to a halt if the driver becomes unresponsive, activating hazard lights, unlocking the doors, and contacting emergency services via SUBARU STARLINK Connected Services.

Inside, the Crosstrek Hybrid offers a tech-forward cabin designed for modern drivers. A 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster is complemented by an 11.6-inch SUBARU STARLINK Multimedia Plus touchscreen system. The multimedia interface supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, providing a seamless and intuitive user experience. Additional entertainment and convenience features include Bluetooth connectivity, SiriusXM All-Access Radio with a complimentary trial, HD Radio, and over-the-air software updates.

The 2026 Crosstrek Hybrid debuts two exclusive exterior colours, Sand Dune Pearl and Citron Yellow Pearl, paired with 18-inch dark grey alloy wheels that emphasise the hybrid model’s unique character. Designed to harmonise Subaru’s advanced hybrid powertrain with its all-wheel-drive architecture, the Crosstrek Hybrid ensures that no capability is lost in the transition to greater efficiency.

As Subaru continues to innovate with environmentally conscious designs, the 2026 Crosstrek Hybrid reflects the brand’s commitment to blending sustainability with performance. The model’s nationwide release in September 2025 is set to reaffirm its status as a versatile and reliable choice for adventurers and eco-conscious drivers alike.