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Toyota to Invest $500 Million in Electric Air Taxis

Toyota Motor Corporation has announced an additional $500 million investment in Joby Aviation, Inc., a company developing electric air taxis for commercial passenger service. This strategic investment supports the certification and commercial production of Joby’s electric air taxi, advancing the two companies’ shared vision of air mobility.

The investment will occur in two phases, with the first tranche closing later this year and the second in 2025, subject to regulatory approvals and conditions. Once completed, Toyota’s total investment in Joby will reach $894 million. This investment will be made as cash for common stock and further details can be found in regulatory filings with the SEC.

Joby Aviation is making significant strides toward the commercialisation of electric air taxis, recently rolling out its third aircraft from its pilot production line in California. The company has also started expanding its manufacturing facilities and is making progress in its type certification process, with one-third of the fourth of five stages already completed.

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Rolls-Royce Spectre Lunaflair: One-Of-A-Kind Bespoke Creation

Rolls-Royce Motor Cars has introduced the Spectre Lunaflair, a one-of-a-kind Bespoke creation designed for a distinguished client in the United States. The standout feature of this vehicle is its dazzling holographic paint finish, which creates a striking ‘rainbow’ effect, mimicking the beauty of a lunar halo. This natural phenomenon, where light refracts through ice crystals in cirrus clouds around the moon, served as the inspiration for the Spectre Lunaflair’s breathtaking design.

Achieving this finish was a year-long process, involving the meticulous application of seven layers of lacquer, including a pearlescent coat infused with fine flakes of magnesium fluoride and aluminium. This complex technique ensures the car exhibits a deep metallic glow in low light, while transforming into a vibrant technicolour display in direct sunlight.

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Proton e.MAS 7 Tour Kicks Off an Electrifying Chapter for Malaysia’s First National EV Brand

The Proton e.MAS 7 Tour is officially kicking off on 5 October 2024, giving Malaysians their first up-close experience with Proton’s first electric vehicle (EV). Covering over 2,000 km across all Malaysian states, the tour showcases the e.MAS 7’s capabilities and highlight Proton’s commitment to innovation and engineering excellence.

In its final phase of testing, the e.MAS 7 is being tailored for the Malaysian market through rigorous trials. The tour, inspired by the Geely E5’s Long Test Drive from China to Malaysia, will traverse Malaysian roads, starting in Negeri Sembilan and finishing in Sarawak on 29 November, while stopping at charging stations and local eateries.

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Zeekr Malaysia Opens Bookings for 009 MPV and X SUV

Zeekr Malaysia has officially launched its operations, offering the Zeekr X compact urban all-electric SUV and the ultra-luxurious Zeekr 009 MPV. Bookings are now open for both models, with indicative pricing set at below RM180,000 for the Zeekr X and below RM370,000 for the Zeekr 009. The booking fees are RM2,000 and RM4,000, respectively. Sentinel Automotive Sdn Bhd, the official distributor, will provide sales, after-sales services, and spare parts.

Zeekr X: A Premium Urban Electric SUV

The Zeekr X is available in two variants—Premium and Flagship AWD. The Flagship AWD features dual motors with 422hp, achieving 0-100km/h in just 3.8 seconds. The Premium variant offers 268hp and reaches 0-100km/h in 5.6 seconds. Both versions use a 66kWh battery, capable of charging from 10% to 80% in just 30 minutes via a 150kW DC charger.

The Zeekr X comes in five colours: Crystal White, Mist Grey, Grid Grey, Palace Beige, and Pine Green, with Charcoal Black and Stone Grey interior options. It features a full suite of safety and driver assistance systems, including 7 airbags, a 360° camera, and Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS).

Zeekr 009: A Luxurious and Powerful MPV

The Zeekr 009 MPV is available in two configurations—a 7-seater Luxury model and a 6-seater Ultra Luxury version. It boasts dual motors with 603hp and 693Nm of torque, achieving 0-100km/h in 4.5 seconds. The MPV is equipped with a 116kWh battery, offering a range of up to 582km.

Inside, the Zeekr 009 offers premium features, including aeronautic seats, massage functions, a 15.05″ OLED infotainment system, a 17″ roof-mounted screen, 30 YAMAHA surround speakers, and various high-tech amenities.

To book your Zeekr model, visit Zeekr Malaysia’s booking page.

Zeekr 009 MPV

Zeekr X SUV

BMW Warns of Trade Dispute Fallout as EU Considers High Tariffs on Chinese EV Imports

BMW has taken a strong stance against the European Commission’s proposed high tariffs on China-made electric vehicles (EVs), urging the German government to vote against the measures. In a statement on Wednesday, BMW’s CEO, Oliver Zipse, expressed concerns that the proposed tariffs could spark a trade dispute with China, which would not only harm Germany’s export industry but also provoke retaliatory measures from China, deepening tensions between the two economic powerhouses.

The European Union (EU) is scheduled to vote on October 4 on whether to impose tariffs of up to 45% on EVs imported from China. This vote was originally set for September 25 but was delayed due to ongoing negotiations aimed at avoiding the steep levies. According to media reports, the final date could still be subject to change, as member states grapple with differing opinions on the matter.

The delay reflects broader concerns within the EU regarding protectionist measures and their potential impact on existing trade relationships with China. Many EU countries have built strong economic ties with China, and some fear that imposing such tariffs could hurt their own economic interests. Cui Hongjian, a professor at the Academy of Regional and Global Governance in Beijing, emphasised that these tariffs could undermine the open and cooperative trade relations that have been carefully developed over the years.

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Proton’s SUV Success Drives September Sales Amid Slower Market

Proton has reported a strong sales performance for September, selling 11,269 units (including domestic and export), bringing the company’s year-to-date (YTD) total to 112,758 units. This solidifies Proton’s second position in the national automotive sales rankings with a forecasted market share of 20.1% for the month and a YTD figure of 19.1% for 2024.

September is historically a slower month for car sales, and this year was no exception, with the total industry volume (TIV) estimated at 56,067 units, marking a 22.2% decrease from the previous month. Despite the dip, the YTD total remains ahead of 2023, with the industry having sold nearly 590,000 units so far, reflecting a 3% increase from last year.

Proton, however, continues to lead in key SUV segments. The 2025 Proton X70, which was launched in August, recorded 1,466 units sold in September, making it the best-selling C-segment SUV for the month. This is the highest sales figure for the model since December 2022, nearly doubling its August numbers, indicating strong interest in the refreshed design and enhanced technology of the SUV.

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All-New MG5 Sedan Officially Launched in Malaysia – Priced at RM93,900 with a RM7k Rebate Offer!

SAIC Motor gave us a preview of the all-new MG5 Sedan back in August of this year with an estimated price of below RM100,000 and we were impressed by it. Today, SAIC Motor Malaysia Sdn. Bhd. has officially launched the MG5 Sedan with a price tag of RM93,900!

In celebration of MG’s 100-year anniversary, customers can take advantage of the all-new MG5 with the exclusive introductory offer of RM7,000 rebate!

The MG5 features a sleek fastback profile that includes a ducktail spoiler, a striking 3D front grille, and a power sunroof, all of which enhance its sporty appeal. It is equipped with automatic LED headlights and striking 17-inch Tomahawk alloy wheels, projecting a sense of sophistication on the road.

Inside, the cabin impresses with its modern and spacious layout, showcasing a 7-inch digital instrument cluster and a 10.25-inch floating infotainment system. The luxurious leather upholstery, accented with red details, adds to the interior’s allure. The driver benefits from a 6-way electrically adjustable seat, while tech enthusiasts will appreciate the vehicle’s connectivity options, which include Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Under the hood, the MG5 is powered by a 1.5-litre petrol engine that delivers 114PS and 150Nm of torque. This engine is paired with an 8-speed iCVT automatic transmission and has undergone extensive testing, ensuring reliable performance over 2.35 million kilometres.

Safety is a top priority for the MG5, which is equipped with the MG PILOT suite of driver assistance features. This includes Lane Departure Warning, Blind Spot Detection, and Rear Cross Traffic Alert, along with standard safety systems such as Electronic Stability Program (ESP), ABS, Traction Control, and six SRS airbags, further enhancing its safety credentials.

The MG5 is available in five vibrant colours: Nuclear Yellow, Dynamic Red, Arctic White, Black Pearl, and Camden Grey. To underscore its commitment to quality and customer satisfaction, MG offers robust warranty packages for the MG5, including a 5-year Unlimited Mileage Warranty for the vehicle and a 7-year Unlimited Mileage Warranty for the powertrain.

With its blend of stylish design, advanced technology, and safety features, the MG5 Sedan is poised to attract buyers seeking a reliable and well-equipped vehicle in the competitive B-segment market.

Caterham Project V’s Electric Powertrain Components Will be Developed by Yamaha

Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd. has announced its collaboration in the development of a new electric sports coupe, dubbed “Project V.” This initiative is being spearheaded by Caterham EVo Limited, a UK-based subsidiary of VT Holdings Co., Ltd., headquartered in Nagoya, Japan. The partnership seeks to drive the project toward mass production and commercialisation, blending both companies’ expertise in engineering and technology.

Project V is designed to carry forward the core values of Caterham, which emphasise driving pleasure through lightweight construction, simplicity, and a focus on the fun-to-drive experience. Initially introduced at the Goodwood Festival of Speed in the UK in July 2023 and later showcased at the Tokyo Auto Salon in January 2024, the project has garnered significant attention. Together with Tokyo R&D Co., Ltd., based in Chiyoda, Tokyo, the companies are working toward developing and producing a prototype, with a target completion date around mid-2025, followed by plans for mass production.

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Mercedes-Amg One Breaks Its Own Lap Record On The Nürburgring

The Mercedes-AMG One, a hypercar incorporating Formula 1™ technology, has once again set a new record on the Nürburgring-Nordschleife. On September 23, 2024, DTM driver Maro Engel achieved an officially recorded lap time of 6:29.090 minutes, beating his previous record by over five seconds. This makes the AMG One the first road car to break the 6:30-minute barrier on the demanding 20.832-kilometre track.

The AMG One’s hybrid system, consisting of One combustion engine and four electric motors, produces 1,063 hp and reaches a top speed of 352km/h. The hypercar utilises advanced aerodynamics, a Formula 1™-inspired energy recovery system, and the four-stage Energy Flow Control (EFC) to optimise performance. During his record lap, Engel relied on techniques such as “lift and coast” to maximise battery energy for crucial moments, simulating Formula 1™ energy management.

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Toyota Delays First US Electric Vehicle Launch Amid Strategic EV Expansion

Toyota has announced a delay in the start of production for its first US-made electric vehicle (EV), pushing the launch from late 2025 to early 2026. This will affect the manufacturing of a three-row, battery-powered SUV at its Georgetown, Kentucky plant. However, the Japanese automaker remains committed to its EV strategy, planning to introduce up to seven fully electric models in the US within the next two years.

Despite the delay, Toyota is on track to begin production of another all-electric SUV at its Princeton, Indiana factory later in 2026. These efforts are part of Toyota’s broader goal to sell 1.5 million EVs worldwide by 2026. To support this, the company is also constructing a lithium-ion battery plant in North Carolina, expected to begin operations in 2025.

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English

Toyota to Invest $500 Million in Electric Air Taxis

Rolls-Royce Spectre Lunaflair: One-Of-A-Kind Bespoke Creation

Proton e.MAS 7 Tour Kicks Off an Electrifying Chapter for Malaysia’s First National EV Brand

Zeekr Malaysia Opens Bookings for 009 MPV and X SUV

Zeekr X: A Premium Urban Electric SUV

Zeekr 009: A Luxurious and Powerful MPV

BMW Warns of Trade Dispute Fallout as EU Considers High Tariffs on Chinese EV Imports

Proton’s SUV Success Drives September Sales Amid Slower Market

All-New MG5 Sedan Officially Launched in Malaysia – Priced at RM93,900 with a RM7k Rebate Offer!

Caterham Project V’s Electric Powertrain Components Will be Developed by Yamaha

Mercedes-Amg One Breaks Its Own Lap Record On The Nürburgring

Toyota Delays First US Electric Vehicle Launch Amid Strategic EV Expansion

Toyota to Invest $500 Million in Electric Air Taxis

Rolls-Royce Spectre Lunaflair: One-Of-A-Kind Bespoke Creation

Proton e.MAS 7 Tour Kicks Off an Electrifying Chapter for Malaysia’s First National EV Brand

Zeekr Malaysia Opens Bookings for 009 MPV and X SUV

BMW Warns of Trade Dispute Fallout as EU Considers High Tariffs on Chinese EV Imports

Proton’s SUV Success Drives September Sales Amid Slower Market

All-New MG5 Sedan Officially Launched in Malaysia – Priced at RM93,900 with a RM7k Rebate Offer!

Caterham Project V’s Electric Powertrain Components Will be Developed by Yamaha

Mercedes-Amg One Breaks Its Own Lap Record On The Nürburgring

Toyota Delays First US Electric Vehicle Launch Amid Strategic EV Expansion

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