English Archives

Hyundai Unveils INSTEROID: A Bold, Gaming-Inspired Concept EV

Hyundai Motor Company has unveiled its latest concept car, the INSTEROID, a radical reimagination of its successful INSTER electric sub-compact urban SUV. Revealed in Seoul, INSTEROID pushes the boundaries of automotive design by merging gaming aesthetics with extensive customisation, aimed at engaging a new generation of drivers.

Built as a bold “What if?” design project, INSTEROID takes inspiration from the INSTER, which has gained international acclaim, including being a top-three finalist for the 2025 World Car of the Year award. Unlike its production counterpart, INSTEROID embraces an aggressive, performance-driven design, marked by widened bodywork, aerodynamic enhancements, and motorsport-inspired elements such as track-optimised wheels and a prominent wing spoiler.

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Putra Heights Fire: Chery Malaysia Lends 50 Vehicles to Victims

Chery Corporate Malaysia has stepped forward to assist residents affected by the recent Putra Heights fire by providing 50 vehicles to those who lost their transportation in the disaster. Selangor Executive Councillor for Investment, Trade, and Mobility Ng Sze Han confirmed today that the initiative aims to support over a hundred families impacted by the blaze, which was caused by a burst gas pipe belonging to national oil company Petronas.

Ng emphasised the urgency of the situation, highlighting that many residents need transportation to get to work and send their children to school. In response, Chery’s vehicle loan program will begin accepting applications in the coming days, offering temporary mobility solutions for affected families.

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BYD Reports Record-Breaking EV Sales in Q1 2025

BYD has reported record-breaking electric vehicle (EV) sales for the first quarter of 2025, with nearly one million units sold globally. The Chinese automaker recorded a total of 990,711 passenger vehicle sales in Q1, marking a significant 58.7% increase from the 624,398 units sold in the same period last year.

In March alone, BYD delivered 377,420 vehicles globally, of which 371,419 were passenger cars. This represented a 15% increase compared to February and a 23.1% rise from the previous year. The company also produced 395,091 vehicles in March, a 33% increase from 296,253 units in March 2024. The difference between production and sales stood at 17,671 vehicles.

Export figures reached an all-time monthly high, with 72,723 units sold overseas in March. This marked an 8.5% increase from February and a staggering 90% jump compared to the same month last year. In total, BYD exported 206,084 vehicles in Q1 2025, a sharp 110.5% increase from the first quarter of 2024.

Breaking down the Q1 sales figures, the company sold 416,388 battery electric vehicles (BEVs), reflecting a 39% increase from the 300,114 units sold in Q1 2024. BEVs accounted for 42.2% of total sales, a slight decline from 48.1% in the previous year. Meanwhile, plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) saw an even greater surge, with 569,710 units sold, up 76% from 324,284 in Q1 2024. PHEVs accounted for 57.8% of total sales, up from 51.9% last year.

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Porsche Launches Pilot Project for High-Voltage Battery Recycling

Porsche has initiated a pilot project aimed at recovering valuable raw materials from high-voltage batteries at the end of their lifecycle. The initiative seeks to explore a closed-loop raw material cycle, emphasising the growing importance of recycled battery components and the responsible handling of high-voltage batteries. In the long term, the company plans to establish a dedicated recycling network in collaboration with external partners.

The pilot project is structured in three phases to test a process suitable for large-scale application. In the first phase, high-voltage batteries from development vehicles undergo mechanical shredding, producing a material known as “black mass.” This granulated mixture contains essential elements such as nickel, cobalt, manganese, and lithium. To date, Porsche has generated approximately 65 tons of black mass through this process.

The second phase involves refining the black mass to extract its valuable raw materials. Porsche places particular emphasis on ensuring the quality and purity of these recycled materials to produce high-performance batteries for its electric vehicles.

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Aston Martin Valhalla Nears Final Validation Ahead of Q2 2025 Production – 1,079PS, 1,100Nm of Tourque

Aston Martin has officially released on-road images of the Valhalla as it nears the final stages of validation ahead of its production launch in the second quarter of 2025. Currently undergoing rigorous testing both on-road in the UK and on-track near Barcelona, the mid-engined hybrid supercar is being fine-tuned to ensure exceptional performance in real-world conditions.

The Valhalla has been seen in two striking liveries—Podium Green with Lime Green accents and Verdant Jade with Valkyrie Gold—while being put through its paces at the IDIADA proving ground in Spain. Aston Martin engineers, alongside three-time Le Mans class winner Darren Turner, are conducting final calibrations on steering precision, active aerodynamics, and the thermal braking system’s performance. In addition to track testing, another Valhalla, finished in Satin Scintilla Silver with Lime Green highlights, is undergoing damper calibration on UK roads to refine its ride quality and handling characteristics.

Simon Newton, Aston Martin’s Director of Vehicle Performance and Attributes, emphasized the unprecedented dynamic capability of the Valhalla, made possible by its hybrid powertrain that produces an astonishing 1,079PS and 1,100Nm of torque. The car is powered by a 4.0-litre twin-turbo flat-plane crank V8, the most powerful V8 ever fitted to an Aston Martin, and is paired with three electric motors, allowing for plug-in hybrid capability and a dedicated EV driving mode. It also features Aston Martin’s all-new 8-speed Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT), which incorporates an integrated e-Motor and an electronic rear differential for enhanced control and efficiency. The front-axle twin motors contribute to an advanced all-wheel-drive system with torque vectoring, elevating the supercar’s handling dynamics.

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Hyundai Unveils “Pleos” Infotainment System, Taking Aim at Tesla

Hyundai Motor Group has revealed its next-generation infotainment and operating system, dubbed “Pleos,” featuring a large centre display reminiscent of Tesla’s signature touchscreen interface. Set to debut in the second quarter of 2026, the new system promises faster performance, enhanced vehicle connectivity, and a sleek, modern user experience.

Unlike Tesla’s button-free approach, Hyundai’s Pleos will retain physical controls, ensuring ease of use while maintaining a futuristic aesthetic. The decision to integrate knobs and buttons may appeal to drivers who prefer a more tactile interface, avoiding the common frustrations associated with fully touch-based controls.

Tesla has long been recognized for its highly responsive infotainment system, and Hyundai appears to be taking inspiration while offering an alternative for consumers looking to move away from the brand. If the prototype is any indication, Pleos could provide a similarly intuitive and feature-rich experience while distinguishing itself with added convenience.

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New Rates For Puspakom’s Mobile Services Effective 1 April 2025

PUSPAKOM Sdn Bhd has announced adjustments to its Mobile Van Services (MVS) and Mobile Truck Services (MTS) charges, set to take effect on April 1, 2025. The revision comes as part of efforts to align service charges with current operational costs, ensuring continued efficiency, reliability, and safety in vehicle inspections.

Chief Executive Officer Mahmood Razak Bahman stated that the adjustments were made following a comprehensive review to maintain the sustainability of PUSPAKOM’s mobile services. He emphasised that the inspection fees at PUSPAKOM branches remain unchanged, meaning only customers using mobile services will be affected.

“The new rates will apply solely to MTS and MVS, while customers bringing their vehicles to PUSPAKOM branches will not experience any changes,” Mahmood explained. “This adjustment reflects the rising operational costs of our Mobile Services, though the vehicle inspection fee itself remains the same,” he added.

Fleet

Distance

Current

Charge (RM)

Increment

(RM)

New Charge (RM)

Increment (%)

MTS

(per day)

1st

50km

3,000.00

300.00

3,300.00

10%

MVS

(per unit)

1st

50km

100.00

20.00

120.00

20%

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Porsche Enhances Digital Experience for 911, Taycan, Panamera, and Cayenne

Porsche is introducing significant upgrades to its Porsche Communication Management (PCM) system across the 911, Taycan, Panamera, and Cayenne models as part of its latest model year updates. The revised system boasts enhanced performance, expanded digital capabilities, and greater user convenience, reinforcing Porsche’s commitment to innovation beyond just powertrains and chassis technology.

The improvements include the introduction of the Porsche App Center, integration of Amazon Alexa as a digital assistant, and support for Dolby Atmos immersive audio technology. Additionally, Porsche Connect will now be included as standard for 10 years, ensuring a seamless and reliable digital experience for owners.

Faster and More Versatile PCM System

The latest PCM update features new hardware that enhances system responsiveness and computing power, allowing for quicker access to infotainment functions. A key addition is the Porsche App Center, which provides direct access to a wide range of third-party applications, similar to app stores on smartphones and tablets.

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Malaysian Government-Owned ‘1M’ Number Plate Among UK’s Most Expensive, Valued Over RM5.7 Million

A rare and prestigious number plate owned by the Malaysian government, ‘1M,’ has been revealed and is going viral on social media, as one of the most valuable vehicle registrations in the United Kingdom. Estimated to be worth over £1 million (approximately RM5.7 million), the plate is currently affixed to a black Mercedes-Benz S350, serving as the official vehicle for Malaysia’s Ambassador in the UK.

A Symbol of Prestige and Diplomacy

The ‘1M’ plate, issued exclusively to the Malaysian Embassy in London, has long been associated with the country’s diplomatic presence in the UK. Dating back to at least 1974, this registration has graced a variety of embassy vehicles over the decades, including luxury sedans and even London taxis. The plate remains a symbolic representation of Malaysia’s long-standing diplomatic ties with the UK.

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BHPetrol’s ‘Balik Kampung Dengan Selamat’ Program Ensures a Safe Hari Raya Journey

In the spirit of Hari Raya Aidilfitri, BHPetrol continued its annual tradition of promoting road safety and enhancing the travel experience for Malaysians through its ‘Balik Kampung Dengan Selamat’ program. This year, the initiative was held at BHPetrol Sg. Besi Harmony station (PLUS Southbound), a strategically located rest stop equipped with various facilities catering to motorists traveling south from the capital.

During the event, BHPetrol distributed 300 souvenir bags filled with snacks and beverages to customers, offering them refreshments for their long journeys. In addition to the giveaways, motorists received Hari Raya envelopes containing BHPetrol vouchers, which could be redeemed at any of the company’s fuel stations nationwide.

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Piston.my

English

Hyundai Unveils INSTEROID: A Bold, Gaming-Inspired Concept EV

Putra Heights Fire: Chery Malaysia Lends 50 Vehicles to Victims

BYD Reports Record-Breaking EV Sales in Q1 2025

Porsche Launches Pilot Project for High-Voltage Battery Recycling

Aston Martin Valhalla Nears Final Validation Ahead of Q2 2025 Production – 1,079PS, 1,100Nm of Tourque

Hyundai Unveils “Pleos” Infotainment System, Taking Aim at Tesla

New Rates For Puspakom’s Mobile Services Effective 1 April 2025

Porsche Enhances Digital Experience for 911, Taycan, Panamera, and Cayenne

Malaysian Government-Owned ‘1M’ Number Plate Among UK’s Most Expensive, Valued Over RM5.7 Million

BHPetrol’s ‘Balik Kampung Dengan Selamat’ Program Ensures a Safe Hari Raya Journey

Hyundai Unveils INSTEROID: A Bold, Gaming-Inspired Concept EV

Putra Heights Fire: Chery Malaysia Lends 50 Vehicles to Victims

BYD Reports Record-Breaking EV Sales in Q1 2025

Porsche Launches Pilot Project for High-Voltage Battery Recycling

Aston Martin Valhalla Nears Final Validation Ahead of Q2 2025 Production – 1,079PS, 1,100Nm of Tourque

Hyundai Unveils “Pleos” Infotainment System, Taking Aim at Tesla

New Rates For Puspakom’s Mobile Services Effective 1 April 2025

Porsche Enhances Digital Experience for 911, Taycan, Panamera, and Cayenne

Malaysian Government-Owned ‘1M’ Number Plate Among UK’s Most Expensive, Valued Over RM5.7 Million

BHPetrol’s ‘Balik Kampung Dengan Selamat’ Program Ensures a Safe Hari Raya Journey

Archive

Syndicates Exploiting Special Stickers to Shield Heavy Vehicles from Enforcement Actions

Government Announces 50% Toll Discount for Hari Raya

Bugatti Begins Deliveries of the W16 Mistral, the World’s Fastest Roadster

ASEAN Moves Towards Unified EV Policy to Boost Regional Sustainability

2026 Volvo XC60: Enhanced Tech, Comfort, and Design

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