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Stellantis has unveiled the specifications for its STLA Frame platform, a modular chassis designed to support a new generation of full-size SUVs, pickup trucks, and light commercial vehicles, many of which will be electric. This platform will also accommodate plug-in hybrid (PHEV) and hydrogen-powered vehicles, further reinforcing Stellantis’ commitment to versatile and sustainable mobility. It is one of four modular platforms in Stellantis’ lineup, alongside STLA Small, STLA Medium, and STLA Large, each designed for flexibility and upgradability in components such as battery chemistry, electric motors, and software.

The STLA Frame platform features a ladder-type frame chassis, with a widened central section to house the battery pack for electric models. A full-length belly pan reduces aerodynamic drag, maximising efficiency. Battery sizes will range from 159 kWh to over 200 kWh, supporting 800-volt architecture for high-speed charging up to 350 kW, adding 160km of range in just 10 minutes under optimal conditions. Series PHEVs will use a 400-volt system, capable of charging at up to 175 kW.

2025 Ram 1500 REV

Performance-wise, the platform supports up to 804km of range in EV mode and 1,110km in series PHEV mode. It offers impressive towing capabilities, with a maximum towing capacity of 6,350kg and a payload capacity of 1,224kg, surpassing the performance of some current Ram light-duty models. The platform is designed for off-road enthusiasts, able to ford up to 24 inches of water and accommodate tyres up to 33 inches in diameter, with ground clearance ranging from 6.6 to 10.3 inches. Dual-motor all-wheel-drive configurations are supported, with the most powerful electric motors delivering 335hp, enabling some models to accelerate from 0-100km/h in just 4.4 seconds.

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Mazda is gearing up for a renewed push into the electric vehicle (EV) market. Despite a rocky start with the MX-30, which was recently discontinued in the U.S. due to poor sales performance, Mazda has outlined its vision for an electrified future. Central to this strategy is a fully in-house-developed electric SUV set to launch in 2027.

The announcement was part of Mazda’s detailed roadmap, extending through 2030. This upcoming SUV is expected to feature a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) derivative, most likely employing a range extender technology. The automaker has hinted at utilising its iconic rotary engine, which serves as a generator for recharging batteries rather than directly powering the wheels.

Mazda currently markets the MX-30 R-EV, an EV equipped with a single-rotor Wankel engine that acts solely as a generator. Industry analysts believe this setup could be carried over to the 2027 SUV, albeit with improvements.

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Jaguar is embarking on a transformational journey to recapture its founder Sir William Lyons’ original ethos: “Copy Nothing.” At the forefront of this reimagining is the unveiling of the Jaguar Type 00, a design vision concept that boldly represents the brand’s new creative philosophy, “Exuberant Modernism.” Premiered at Miami Art Week 2024, this distinctive concept previews the future of Jaguar—a fearless statement of design, innovation, and electrification.

The Type 00, pronounced “Type Zero Zero,” is a physical manifestation of Jaguar’s vibrant new identity. It combines a rich heritage with cutting-edge technology and visionary design. Its striking silhouette features a long bonnet, a sweeping roofline, a fastback profile, and dramatic 23-inch alloy wheels. This revolutionary form is made possible by Jaguar’s dedicated Jaguar Electric Architecture (JEA), ensuring not only bold aesthetics but also state-of-the-art electric vehicle (EV) performance.

Jaguar’s decision to unveil Type 00 at Miami Art Week underscores its alignment with the art world, showcasing a celebration of British creativity. Two interpretations of the concept were presented: a Satin Rhodon Rose model, dubbed “Miami Pink,” inspired by the Art Deco charm of the city, and an Inception Silver Blue variant, nicknamed “London Blue,” paying homage to Jaguar’s British roots. Both iterations highlight the artistry that has been integral to Jaguar’s identity for decades.

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Nissan made an impression at the Thailand International Motor Expo 2024 with the unveiling of its latest model, the New Nissan Serena. This premium seven-seater Multi-Purpose Vehicle (MPV) promises to redefine family travel, offering a blend of space, versatility, and technology. Priced from 1,469,000 baht (RM189,578), the Serena has been designed to enrich every journey with its spacious cabin and innovative features, making it a compelling choice for Thai families.

The New Nissan Serena is a testament to the brand’s “Big. Easy. Fun.” philosophy, ensuring both functionality and enjoyment for all passengers. Since its inception in Japan in 1991, the Serena has been celebrated for its spaciousness, and the latest iteration builds on this legacy. It boasts the most generous cabin space in its segment, ensuring ample room for passengers across all three rows. Cleverly designed seating arrangements provide up to thirteen configurations, allowing users to adapt the interior for activities ranging from long road trips to beach outings. Additionally, passengers can enjoy features such as adjustable second- and third-row seats, 14 cup holders, six USB ports, and personal tables, all designed to enhance convenience and comfort.

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Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM) has launched its annual Volkswagen Cares initiative to support owners affected by recent floods across Malaysia, underscoring its commitment to customer care and vehicle safety during challenging times.

The program offers a 30% discount on genuine Volkswagen parts for flood-damaged vehicles, valid from 1 October 2024 to 31 March 2025 at all authorised Volkswagen service centres nationwide. Additionally, owners can benefit from a complimentary vehicle inspection to assess damage and receive expert repair recommendations.

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SAIC Motor Malaysia invites you to experience the innovation and style of MG vehicles at the Kuala Lumpur International Mobility Show (KLIMS), running from 5th to 11th December 2024 at MITEC KL. Doors open daily at 10:00 AM, offering a showcase of MG’s cutting-edge lineup tailored for diverse lifestyles.

Highlights of the Event

  • Debut of the MG Cyberster
    Witness the official Malaysian launch of the MG Cyberster, a stunning two-seater roadster designed for exhilarating performance and modern sophistication. Pricing for the Cyberster will be revealed during the event.
  • Other Featured Models
    Explore a variety of MG vehicles, including:

    • MG4 EV: A compact electric hatchback.
    • MG5: Sleek and sporty sedan.
    • MG HS SUV: A premium and versatile SUV.
    • Upcoming Releases: Get a first look at the MG3 HEV, MG7, and MG ZS HEV, showcasing MG’s commitment to hybrid and electric technologies.
  • Exclusive Benefits
    Visitors who book an MG at the event will receive a special gift and an additional reward at MG’s booth (2A02) on Level 2.

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Carlos Tavares, the CEO of Stellantis, abruptly resigned on Sunday following mounting tensions among the company’s shareholders and leadership. His departure comes just two months after a profit warning that marked a difficult year for the automaker, which oversees brands like Jeep, Fiat, and Peugeot. Stellantis’ shares have plummeted 40% in 2024, reflecting a challenging environment for the world’s fourth-largest automaker by sales.

Leadership Transition and Interim Measures

According to Reuters, the Stellantis board, chaired by John Elkann, has accepted Tavares’ resignation “with immediate effect.” Elkann will lead an interim executive committee while the company seeks a new CEO, a process expected to conclude in the first half of 2025. Senior Independent Director Henri de Castries noted that differing strategic views between Tavares, major shareholders, and the board led to the resignation.

Profit Warning and Operational Struggles

In September, Stellantis issued a profit warning, citing a projected cash burn of up to €10 billion ($10.6 billion) due to sluggish North American sales and high inventory levels. Sales in the U.S. dropped 17% year-over-year in the third quarter, with brands like Dodge, Ram, Jeep, and Chrysler underperforming. Inventory issues were pronounced, with some models, such as the Ram 1500 pickup and Jeep Wagoneer, significantly exceeding average supply levels compared to competitors.

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A dramatic police pursuit of a stolen vehicle ended successfully in Jertih, Terengganu, after a 40km chase on December 1, according to Harian Metro.

Deputy Superintendent Md Sani Md Saleh, Acting Besut District Police Chief, reported that the arrest followed a housebreaking case in Kampung Padang Luas, where a Perodua Myvi was stolen. The incident was first reported at 3:44 PM.

“Based on intelligence and information, our officers located the stolen vehicle in Jertih. Upon spotting the police, the suspect, a 42-year-old man, attempted to evade arrest, prompting the 40-kilometre chase,” Md Sani explained.

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The Volkswagen Golf, a name synonymous with compact car excellence, is preparing for an all-electric rebirth as part of Volkswagen’s transition into a more sustainable future. The ninth-generation Golf, slated for a 2029 debut, will be an exclusively electric model, developed in collaboration with Rivian through a joint venture worth $5.8 billion.

Electric Golf 2.0: A Fresh Start on the SSP Platform

The forthcoming electric Golf will ride on Volkswagen’s Scalable Systems Platform (SSP), a next-generation EV architecture developed with Rivian’s expertise in electric vehicle (EV) engineering and software. Volkswagen CEO Thomas Schäfer emphasised the strategic importance of starting the SSP journey with the Golf:
“We want to begin this journey with a more iconic product. So, we’ll start with the Golf,” Schäfer said.

Volkswagen e-Golf

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In a significant step towards environmental conservation, Proton recently collaborated with local environmental NGO MY Clean Beach for a beach-cleaning initiative at Pantai Batu Laut in Tanjong Sepat. Located along the Straits of Malacca, the picturesque beach lies less than two hours from Kuala Lumpur and is known for its mangrove swamps and pristine waters.

The event saw the participation of 42 volunteers from Proton’s management team, members of Kelab Proton Edar, and MY Clean Beach. Together, they focused on cleaning the mangrove and local visitor areas of the beach, successfully removing 338.5 kilograms of waste. The waste collected included:

  • 263.95 kg of general waste
  • 38 kg of large items
  • 19.5 kg of plastic
  • 14 kg of glass
  • 3.5 kg of tin/metal
  • 148 cigarette butts
  • 46 plastic straws

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