English Archives

Loke: RTD to Equip Officers with Bodycams to Boost Transparency and Integrity

Transport Minister Anthony Loke has announced that the Road Transport Department (RTD) will begin equipping its enforcement officers with body cameras in 2025. According to Bernama, this initiative aims to enhance transparency, safeguard officers during their duties, and address public concerns about enforcement practices.

The decision was revealed during the Ministry’s 2025 New Year briefing, where Loke explained that the introduction of bodycams aligns with RTD director-general Datuk Aedy Fadly Ramli’s commitment to upholding the department’s image, safety, and integrity.

Loke underscored the dual benefits of the technology: “The use of body cameras not only protects the image and integrity of RTD but also safeguards the officers themselves. Sometimes our officers face criticism, humiliation, and various accusations. With the body camera, RTD officers are protected, as any evidence during their enforcement actions can be captured.”

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Manual Toyota GR Supra Gains Popularity in 2024 Amid Changing Lineup

Toyota’s decision to introduce a manual transmission option for the GR Supra in mid-2023 has paid off, with the three-pedal variant gaining traction among enthusiasts. In 2024, 65% of all Supras sold in the U.S. featured a manual gearbox, up significantly from the 43% take rate in 2023. While the numbers remain relatively small—2,615 Supras were sold in the U.S. in 2024, with 1,700 being manuals—the shift signals a growing appetite for more engaging driving experiences.

The increased manual adoption coincides with changes to the Supra lineup. Toyota phased out the automatic-only, four-cylinder base model partway through 2024, potentially influencing the manual take rate. With the entry-level Supra no longer available, buyers seeking a purist driving experience gravitated toward the manual-equipped, six-cylinder models.

GR Supra Manual Success Mirrors Broader Trends

The GR Supra wasn’t Toyota’s only sports car to see strong manual sales. The GR86, a staple among driving purists, saw 53% of its 11,426 units sold with a manual transmission, equating to 6,056 vehicles. Even the manual Toyota Tacoma pickup made its mark, with 3,856 units accounting for 2% of the model’s total sales of 192,813.

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GWM’s Haval Brand Unveils Image of the Haval H7 SUV for 2025

Great Wall Motor’s (GWM) Haval brand is gearing up for a significant update to its lineup with the introduction of the new Haval H7 SUV. Zhao Yongpo, general manager of Haval, recently revealed the official image of the updated H7, which is poised to replace or complement the current Haval Xiaolong Max in the Chinese market. Notably, this H7 is distinct from the overseas-market H7, known as the second-generation Haval Big Dog in China.

Dimensions and Design

The new Haval H7 is positioned as a mid-sized SUV, boasting dimensions of 4780 mm in length, 1895 mm in width, and 1725 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2810 mm. These measurements are slightly larger than the Haval Xiaolong Max, which measures 4758 mm in length with a 2800 mm wheelbase. The H7 will feature a five-seat configuration, catering to families and urban drivers who value space and comfort.

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Porsche Adjusts EV Strategy Amid Declining Taycan Sales and Rising ICE Demand

When Porsche debuted the Taycan, it redefined electric vehicles (EVs), setting records and reshaping perceptions of what EVs could achieve. However, public sentiment surrounding EVs has cooled, and changing market dynamics have led Porsche to reconsider its ambitious plans for a predominantly electric fleet.

EV Plans on Hold Amid Falling Taycan Sales

In July 2024, Porsche openly acknowledged challenges in its EV strategy. Initially targeting an 80% EV lineup by 2030, the automaker scaled back those goals following disappointing Taycan sales. In the first nine months of 2024, Taycan sales plummeted by 50% year-over-year, with only 14,000 units sold by September.

Meanwhile, Porsche’s internal combustion engine (ICE) models like the 718 Cayman and Boxster are enjoying a resurgence. These mid-engine sports cars, set to transition to all-electric models after 2025, have seen a 10% increase in global sales in 2024, even as they were discontinued in several European markets due to cybersecurity regulations.

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Volvo’s Innovative Patent: Using Window Heaters to Improve EV Efficiency

Volvo may have uncovered a unique approach to enhancing electric vehicle (EV) efficiency—by using heaters to reduce aerodynamic drag. While traditional EVs are designed to conserve energy, heating systems typically come with a significant energy cost. Volvo’s new patent, however, suggests a novel application: heating the car’s outer surfaces, particularly the windows, to improve on-road efficiency.

The idea, discovered in a patent filing by Carmoses, involves warming the air around the vehicle by heating its outer skin. Warmer air is less dense, reducing the resistance—or drag—on the car as it moves. This seemingly small change can have a noticeable impact on energy consumption and, consequently, range.

The patent explains, “Heating a portion of the outer surface of the vehicle has the effect that a boundary layer of air adjacent to the heated surface is also warmed. Consequently, the density of the air in the boundary layer is reduced. Since drag is a function of the density of the air in this layer, heating the outer surface reduces drag and increases vehicle efficiency.”

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Toyota Malaysia Launches 2025 GR Yaris, GR Corolla, and Corolla GR Sport

UMW Toyota Motor Sdn Bhd has unveiled three highly anticipated models, the 2025 GR Yaris, GR Corolla, and Corolla GR Sport, during the closing of Toyota Gazoo Racing Season 7. These models, inspired by Toyota Gazoo Racing’s motorsport heritage, aim to redefine performance vehicles in Malaysia. Designed for both thrill-seeking enthusiasts and everyday drivers, they showcase Toyota’s commitment to engineering excellence, style, and versatility.

2025 GR Yaris: Competition-Tuned Craftsmanship for the Road

The 2025 GR Yaris brings rally-inspired engineering to Malaysian roads. Powered by a 1.6-liter turbocharged G16E-GTS engine, it delivers 300 PS and 400 Nm of torque, paired with a 6-speed manual transmission for ultimate driver engagement. Its GR-Four all-wheel-drive system, derived from Toyota’s World Rally Championship experience, ensures unmatched control across various terrains.

The GR Yaris features advanced cooling systems, a refined suspension for sharp handling, and aerodynamic upgrades like the Functional MATRIX Ver.2 design. Inside, a driver-focused cockpit boasts a 12.3-inch GR Full TFT meter, ergonomic controls, and race-inspired accents. Available in four colours, including the striking Precious Metal, the GR Yaris starts at RM315,600.

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Chery Holding Achieves Record Sales and Revenue in 2024

Chery Holding has achieved a remarkable milestone in 2024, setting a new historical record with an annual sales volume of 2,603,916 vehicles. For the first time, the company’s annual revenue reached an impressive 480 billion RMB (around RM302.4 billion), reflecting its robust performance and continued growth in the global automotive market.

The company’s exports played a significant role in its success, with 1,144,588 vehicles exported in 2024, marking a year-on-year increase of 21.4%. This solidifies Chery’s position as a major player in the international automotive industry. Additionally, Chery’s new energy vehicle (NEV) segment saw exceptional growth, with annual sales reaching 583,569 units—a staggering year-on-year increase of 232.7%.

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Volvo Car Malaysia Opens Bookings for Locally Assembled EX30 Electric SUV

Volvo Car Malaysia has officially opened bookings for the locally assembled (CKD) Volvo EX30, following the overwhelming success of its fully imported (CBU) units launched in September 2024. The introduction of the EX30 underscores Volvo’s commitment to offering sustainable, safe, and innovative mobility solutions tailored to the Malaysian market.

The locally assembled Volvo EX30 Model Year 2025 (MY25) will be available in two variants: the Ultra and Ultra Twin Performance. Pricing starts at RM208,888 for the Ultra variant, while the Ultra Twin Performance variant is priced at RM228,888. Customers can choose from three stunning colours: Cloud Blue, Vapour Grey, and Crystal White. The first deliveries are expected in the second week of January 2025, making the EX30 an exciting addition to the growing electric vehicle market in Malaysia.

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Mazda Breaks U.S. Sales Record While Taking a Cautious Approach to Electrification

Mazda is defying industry trends by thriving in a market increasingly focused on electrification. The Japanese automaker is poised to break its long-standing U.S. sales record from 1986, projecting over 420,000 vehicles sold in 2024, marking a 16% year-over-year increase. The surge is largely attributed to the popularity of Mazda’s compact crossovers and mid-size SUVs, with an ambitious target of 450,000 vehicles set for 2025.

“We’re growing our business in what has largely been a stable industry,” said Tom Donnelly, Mazda’s president of North American operations. This growth is underpinned by consistent demand for models like the CX-5, CX-30, and CX-50, which dominate the company’s lineup and resonate strongly with U.S. consumers.

Cautious Steps Toward Electrification

Despite its sales success, Mazda has been measured in its approach to electrification. Currently, the company offers three hybrid models: the Toyota-assisted CX-50 Hybrid and plug-in hybrid versions of the CX-70 and CX-90 SUVs. While these hybrids have garnered mixed reviews, Mazda’s fully electric ambitions remain modest.

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BYD Reports Record Sales in 2024 Amid Global Trade Tensions

BYD, China’s leading electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer, announced an impressive surge in vehicle sales for 2024, reflecting its growing dominance in both domestic and international markets. The company reported a remarkable 41.3% year-on-year increase, selling 4,272,145 vehicles compared to 3,024,417 units in 2023.

December proved particularly strong for BYD’s overseas sales, with 57,154 vehicles sold outside of China, a 58.3% increase from the same month in 2023. These figures underline BYD’s expanding global footprint despite intensifying trade disputes between China and Western nations.

Global Expansion and Challenges

As the largest EV manufacturer in China—also the world’s biggest automotive market—BYD has made significant strides in penetrating international markets. Its achievements come on the back of robust domestic growth initially supported by generous subsidies from the Chinese government.

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English

Loke: RTD to Equip Officers with Bodycams to Boost Transparency and Integrity

Manual Toyota GR Supra Gains Popularity in 2024 Amid Changing Lineup

GWM’s Haval Brand Unveils Image of the Haval H7 SUV for 2025

Porsche Adjusts EV Strategy Amid Declining Taycan Sales and Rising ICE Demand

Volvo’s Innovative Patent: Using Window Heaters to Improve EV Efficiency

Toyota Malaysia Launches 2025 GR Yaris, GR Corolla, and Corolla GR Sport

Chery Holding Achieves Record Sales and Revenue in 2024

Volvo Car Malaysia Opens Bookings for Locally Assembled EX30 Electric SUV

Mazda Breaks U.S. Sales Record While Taking a Cautious Approach to Electrification

BYD Reports Record Sales in 2024 Amid Global Trade Tensions

Loke: RTD to Equip Officers with Bodycams to Boost Transparency and Integrity

Manual Toyota GR Supra Gains Popularity in 2024 Amid Changing Lineup

GWM’s Haval Brand Unveils Image of the Haval H7 SUV for 2025

Porsche Adjusts EV Strategy Amid Declining Taycan Sales and Rising ICE Demand

Volvo’s Innovative Patent: Using Window Heaters to Improve EV Efficiency

Toyota Malaysia Launches 2025 GR Yaris, GR Corolla, and Corolla GR Sport

Chery Holding Achieves Record Sales and Revenue in 2024

Volvo Car Malaysia Opens Bookings for Locally Assembled EX30 Electric SUV

Mazda Breaks U.S. Sales Record While Taking a Cautious Approach to Electrification

BYD Reports Record Sales in 2024 Amid Global Trade Tensions

Archive

Volvo Car Malaysia Opens Bookings for EX90 and New XC90 SUVs

GWM Unveils Second-Generation Haval Xiaolong Max Plug-in Hybrid SUV with New Design and Advanced Tech

Mitsubishi Unveils Xforce HEV in Thailand as Part of ASEAN Electrification Strategy

Toyota Launches Circular Factory in UK to Advance Vehicle Recycling

BYD Considers Third European Factory Amid Rising Tariffs and Growing EV Demand

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