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Mini Malaysia, part of the BMW Group, has officially launched the new Mini Countryman S ALL4, a locally assembled petrol-powered addition to the Mini family. This expansion of the iconic Mini lineup brings a versatile, sporty SUV designed for both urban living and outdoor adventures. The introduction reflects Mini’s ongoing commitment to offering vehicles that cater to diverse lifestyles while maintaining the brand’s distinct charm.

The Mini Countryman S ALL4 stands taller and longer than its predecessor, with a robust design that retains Mini’s signature style. The exterior features an upright profile, widened track, and a compact bonnet complemented by 20-inch Windmill Spoke wheels. LED headlights with adjustable light signatures and upright LED taillights enhance visibility and aesthetics. Six fresh colour options, including Smokey Green and Chili Red, ensure a bold and expressive presence on the road.

Inside, the spacious cabin exudes a premium feel, with recycled polyester fabrics and vegan leather upholstery. John Cooper Works sport seats and electrically adjustable front seats with memory and massage functions offer superior comfort. Rear passengers benefit from increased shoulder width, sliding adjustments, and a boot capacity expandable from 505 litres to 1,530 litres. A Minimalist dashboard design includes a 240-mm round OLED display, blending style with cutting-edge functionality.

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At the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2025 in Las Vegas, Honda provided an exciting preview of its future in the electric vehicle (EV) market with the introduction of two groundbreaking prototypes: the 0 Saloon and 0 SUV. These near-production models mark a significant step forward in Honda’s electrification strategy, set to launch in the first half of 2026. Both vehicles are part of Honda’s innovative 0 Series and will be manufactured at the company’s dedicated EV Hub in Ohio.

Pioneering Automated Driving Technology

A key highlight of the new 0 Series models is their incorporation of Level 3 automated driving capabilities, featuring the highly anticipated “eyes-off-hands-off” operation. Developed in collaboration with Helm.ai, Honda’s advanced software enables the vehicles to estimate their surroundings with human-like precision, making informed decisions in complex scenarios such as intricate intersections. This technology represents a significant leap in autonomous driving, promising enhanced safety and convenience for drivers.

Saloon

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Jetour Malaysia has unveiled an ambitious roadmap for 2025, with plans to establish over 20 service outlets across the nation. This expansion includes more than ten new 4S and 3S facilities set to open during the first quarter of the year, reflecting Jetour’s commitment to becoming a leading player in Malaysia’s SUV market.

The new service network will feature showrooms in key locations across Peninsular and East Malaysia, including Selangor, Penang, Ipoh, Seremban, Melaka, Johor, Sabah, and Sarawak. This widespread coverage will ensure Malaysian customers have convenient access to Jetour’s innovative vehicles and services. To support this rapid growth, Jetour Malaysia has already secured a robust supply of spare parts, underscoring its readiness to provide seamless sales experiences and top-tier after-sales support.

“2025 is a pivotal year for Jetour Malaysia as we embark on this exciting journey,” said Kevin Xu, Vice President of Jetour International. “Our goal is to become Malaysians’ preferred travel companion by offering vehicles that inspire adventure and embody our dedication to quality and innovation. With our expanding network of service outlets and comprehensive support infrastructure, we aim to ensure accessibility and reliability for our customers, fostering a strong and lasting connection with the Malaysian market.”

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At CES 2025 in Las Vegas, BMW Group introduced its groundbreaking Panoramic iDrive, setting a new benchmark in vehicle technology and user experience. This close-to-production innovation, powered by the all-new BMW Operating System X, combines cutting-edge design, intuitive operation, and unparalleled personalisation. Scheduled to debut in all new BMW models in late 2025, this evolution marks a quarter-century of BMW’s leadership in automotive infotainment systems.

The Next Step in Driver-Focused Innovation

BMW Panoramic iDrive integrates four key elements to redefine driver interaction:

  • BMW Panoramic Vision: This advanced Head-Up Display spans from A-pillar to A-pillar, projecting critical information onto a black-printed section of the windshield. Essential driving details are shown in the driver’s direct line of sight, with customisable content extending across the screen for all passengers to view.
  • 3D Head-Up Display: Positioned above the Panoramic Vision, this optional display incorporates integrated navigation and automated driving data directly in the driver’s field of vision. Together, the two displays provide a seamless, layered information experience.

  • Central Display with Matrix Backlight Technology: A free-cut, touch-enabled screen located close to the steering wheel ensures ergonomic access. Drivers can personalise up to six widgets, swiping them into the Panoramic Vision display for optimal interaction.
  • Multifunction Steering Wheel: Adopting BMW’s “shy-tech” approach, the steering wheel features illuminated, haptic-feedback buttons that only activate relevant functions. This design keeps essential controls within easy reach without diverting the driver’s attention from the road.

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Mazda is taking significant strides in its electrification journey by establishing a specialised battery manufacturing facility in Japan, underscoring its commitment to sustainable mobility. Located in Iwakuni City, Yamaguchi Prefecture, the plant will produce battery modules for Mazda’s upcoming models, including its first vehicle built on a dedicated electric vehicle (EV) platform.

Partnering with Panasonic Energy, Mazda will utilise advanced cylindrical battery modules to power its next-generation EVs. The factory is expected to achieve an annual production capacity of 10GWh, a milestone reflecting the automaker’s ambition to scale up EV production.

A Bold Step Forward

Mazda’s CEO, Masahiro Moro, highlighted the brand’s progress toward its in-house EV platform, which is set to debut in 2027. This platform is promised to deliver vehicles with “advanced design, superior convenience, and extended driving ranges,” signalling a departure from Mazda’s earlier strategy of adapting combustion-engine platforms for electric use.

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Perodua has set a new benchmark in its 30-year history, achieving its highest-ever sales and production records in 2024. The company sold an impressive 358,102 vehicles, surpassing its previous record of 330,325 vehicles in 2023—an 8.4% increase.

The automaker also achieved its highest production volume, manufacturing 368,100 vehicles, a 7.2% jump from the 343,400 units produced in 2023. This accomplishment reflects Perodua’s dynamic coordination and ability to surpass its installed capacity of 320,000 units, solidifying its position as a benchmark in the automotive industry.

Remarkable Growth Amidst Industry Challenges

Perodua President and CEO, Dato’ Sri Zainal Abidin Ahmad, credited the company’s success to its synchronized efforts and commitment to quality. “This achievement shows our true potential and sets a benchmark for the industry in the years to come,” he said, thanking staff for their dedication.

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The world of electric vehicle (EV) batteries is buzzing with innovation, and the latest breakthrough comes from the Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology (DGIST) in Korea. Researchers have developed a revolutionary lithium metal battery featuring a “triple-layer solid polymer electrolyte” that not only boasts extended durability but also self-extinguishes in the event of a fire.

Addressing Lithium Battery Safety Challenges

Traditional solid polymer electrolyte batteries face a significant challenge: the formation of dendrites. These small, tree-like structures develop during charging and discharging, potentially damaging internal battery components and increasing the risk of fires and explosions. This issue has long hindered the full potential of lithium metal batteries.

The DGIST team, led by Dr. Kim Jae-Hyun, tackled this problem with an innovative triple-layer electrolyte structure. Their design features soft outer layers for better electrode contact and a strong middle layer to reinforce structural integrity. Additionally, the electrolyte includes fire-suppressing agents like decabromodiphenyl ethane, high concentrations of lithium salt, and zeolite for added strength.

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Sime Darby Auto Performance (SDAP), the official representative of Porsche in Malaysia, has announced the introduction of the Porsche Cayenne S E-Hybrid Coupe, a highly anticipated addition to Porsche’s lineup in the country. As the second Porsche model to be locally assembled and the first to be assembled for regional export, this sporty SUV aims to set a new standard in luxury and performance.

Milestone Achievements and Growing Demand

Christopher Hunter, CEO of Sime Darby Auto Performance, highlighted Porsche’s growing success in Malaysia since establishing local assembly operations in 2022. Over 1,000 units of the locally assembled Cayenne were delivered to customers in just one year. In 2024, Porsche expanded its regional presence by launching the first regionally assembled Cayenne for Thailand, solidifying its role as a key assembly partner in Southeast Asia.

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Proton has wrapped up 2024 on a high note, achieving total sales of 152,352 units (domestic and export) and securing its position as the second most popular automotive brand in Malaysia for the sixth consecutive year. The year ended with December’s sales reaching 14,601 units, marking a 19.7% month-on-month increase and delivering the second-highest monthly sales for the year. Exports also surged, with 1,131 units shipped to overseas markets, capping off a record-breaking year.

Including 622 units of the smart #1 and #3 sold by its subsidiary PRO-NET, Proton’s total sales for 2024 reached 152,974 units. This success was achieved in a highly competitive market and during a pivotal year when Proton launched its first electric vehicle, the Proton e.MAS 7.

Malaysia’s total industry volume (TIV) hit a new high of 813,521 units, with Proton capturing an 18.7% market share.

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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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