English Archives

Harmony Auto’s First BYD Outlet Opens In Hartamas Shopping Centre

Harmony Auto has officially launched its first BYD outlet at Hartamas Shopping Centre. The 8,000-square-foot outlet features a spacious car display area, a luxurious customer lounge, discussion rooms, and a delivery area.

Additionally, it has an after-sales reception area accessible from the mall’s parking lot. Outside, there are 6 parking spaces equipped with 4 charging stations, reflecting BYD’s commitment to sustainable mobility.

BYD, a global leader in new energy vehicles, sees significant potential in Malaysia’s market, supported by favourable government policies. The BYD models available in Malaysia include the BYD Atto 3, BYD Dolphin, and BYD Seal. Harmony Auto plans to open more BYD dealerships in Malaysia to further promote new energy vehicles.

The outlet will also include a Service and Spare Parts Centre, operational in Q4 this year, making it the first 3S centre located in a shopping mall. During the opening ceremony, Harmony Auto handed over 10 BYD units to customers, demonstrating BYD’s confidence in the Malaysian market and its responsiveness to consumer demand.

All-Electric Hyundai Inster: 115PS, 355km Driving Range

Hyundai has unveiled the all-electric Inster at the 2024 Busan International Mobility Show, introducing a new A-segment sub-compact EV. The Inster stands out with its bold design, driving range, advanced technology, and versatility.

Design and Features

Exterior: The Inster combines futuristic design with a spacious interior in a compact SUV body. Key features include robust fenders, high-tech bumper designs, a bold skid plate, LED daytime running lights, pixel-graphic turn signals, and customisable two-tone exterior options with a contrasting black roof. It offers wheel choices ranging from 15-inch steel to 17-inch alloys.

Interior: The cabin boasts a 10.25-inch digital cluster and infotainment touchscreen, wireless charging dock, and customisable upper door trim garnishes. It provides enhanced versatility with flat-folding seats, a front bench seat option, and heated front seats and steering wheel. Interior trim options include Black and Khaki Brown, and Newtro Beige two-tone with full cloth trim, utilising sustainable materials like recycled PET and bio-polypropylene.

Performance and Technology

Powertrain: The Inster comes with a standard 42 kWh battery and an optional 49 kWh Long-Range battery. It features a single motor delivering 97PS in the base variant and 115PS in the Long-Range variant, with 147Nm of torque. The Long-Range model offers a segment-leading projected range of 355km on a single charge.
Charging: It supports 120 kW DC High-Power charging, enabling a 10 to 80 percent charge in around 30 minutes, and comes with an 11 kW on-board charger, battery heating system, and high-efficiency heat pump. Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) functionality allows power for external devices.
Safety and Assistance: The Inster includes advanced safety and driver assistance features like Surround View Monitor, Parking Collision-Avoidance Assist Rear, Blind-spot View Monitor, Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, Lane Following Assist, and more.

Market and Future Plans

Global Rollout: The Inster will launch first in Korea this summer, followed by Europe, the Middle East, and Asia Pacific. Specifications and optional features will be confirmed closer to launch.
Future Variants: An additional variant, Inster CROSS, with a rugged, outdoor-focused design, will be introduced later.

The Inster’s innovative design and advanced technology make it a significant addition to Hyundai’s EV lineup, offering enhanced flexibility and efficiency for urban driving.

KPDN to Withdraw Operating License of Petrol Stations that Refuse to Install CCTV Cameras

The Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living (KPDN) is taking stringent measures to curb petrol and diesel smuggling by mandating the installation of closed circuit cameras (CCTV) at petrol stations, particularly those near the border.

CCTV Installation Mandate

Policy Enforcement: The KPDN will withdraw the operating license of petrol stations that refuse to install CCTV cameras.
Target Locations: The initiative focuses on border areas such as Pengkalan Kubor, Rantau Panjang, and Bukit Bunga.
Implementation Timeline: The installation of CCTV at these stations will be implemented this year.

Reasons for the Mandate

Combat Smuggling: The primary goal is to address and reduce the smuggling of petrol and diesel to neighbouring countries.
Monitoring: The installed CCTV systems will allow KPDN to monitor activities at petrol stations directly from their office.

(more…)

The 2025 Bentley Continental GT: The Most Powerful Bentley Yet

Bentley has unveiled the facelifted Continental GT and GTC Speed, now featuring a potent hybrid V-8 powertrain. Here’s an overview of the key updates and features:

Powertrain and Performance

Hybrid V-8 Powertrain: The new setup combines a 4.0-litre twin-turbo V-8 with an electric motor and an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission.
Total Output: The hybrid system produces a combined 779hp and 1,000Nm of torque, making it the most powerful Bentley yet.
Top Speed: The Continental GT Speed can reach a top speed of 335km/h, maintaining the performance legacy of its predecessor.
Battery and Electric Motor:
- Battery: A 25.9-kilowatt-hour battery pack powers the electric motor.
- Motor Output: The motor alone generates 187.4 hp and 450Nm of torque.
- Electric Range: Capable of driving up to 80km on the European WLTP test cycle, the motor can independently drive the car up to 140km/h.
V-8 Engine Updates: New single-scroll turbochargers and a higher-pressure fuel injection system help the engine produce 592hp and 800Nm of torque.

Design and Interior

Exterior Changes:
- Front Design: New single headlamps inspired by the Bacalar and Batur models, marking a shift from the twin headlamp design used since 2003.
- Rear Design: Updated, intricately detailed taillights.
Interior: Maintains the luxurious feel Bentley is known for, with high-end materials and craftsmanship.
The 20-way adjustable seats in the Continental GT have long set industry standards in comfort and refinement. New interior features include the optional Wellness seating with Postural Adjust and Auto Climate to the front seats, minimising fatigue and providing a level of relaxation that is truly unique.
The new Dark Chrome Specification provides a more contemporary aesthetic and gives a more understated character to the cabin. This applies to door handles, switches, speak grilles and many other areas around the cabin. Bentley’s bespoke division – Mulliner – will also be offering a collection of unique features enabling further personalisation to the latest model.

A choice of three audio systems is offered in the Continental GT. The standard system features 10 speakers and 650 Watts, while a Bang & Olufsen 1,500 W, 16-speaker system with illuminated speaker grilles is aimed at lifestyle-oriented customers. A Naim 2,200 W, 18-speaker system with Active Bass Transducers built into the front seats and eight sound modes is offered for the true audiophile. Laminated acoustic glass is retained for the windscreen and side windows, resulting in a nine-decibel reduction in exterior noise versus non-acoustic glazing.
The new Continental GT continues to feature the innovative Bentley Rotating Display – the three-sided display featuring a 12.3” high-definition display, three elegant analogue dials, and an unbroken side of handcrafted veneer. The three sides are selectable at the touch of a button.

Hardware and Handling

Dampers and Air Springs: New twin-valve dampers allow for individual adjustments of compression and rebound, paired with two-chamber air springs.
Weight Distribution: For the first time, the Continental GT features a rear-biased weight distribution (49:51 front-rear split), aided by the rear-mounted battery.
Additional Features:
- Rear-wheel steering and active anti-roll bars enhance handling and comfort.

Convertible Version

Continental GTC Speed:
- Top Speed: Limited to 284km/h.
- Acceleration: 0-100km/h in 3.2 seconds, just a tenth slower than the coupe.

Production and Availability

Timeline: Production and deliveries of both the GT and GTC Speed will begin in the third quarter of this year at Bentley’s Crewe factory.

The new hybrid system promises to continue the Speed’s tradition of outstanding performance while introducing more efficiency and modern technology to Bentley’s iconic grand tourer.

Driving Instructor Shortage in Klang Valley Leads to Long Wait Times

The high demand for driving instructors in Malaysia has led to a consistent shortage of trainers, causing delays for candidates waiting to learn to drive. This issue is particularly acute in the Klang Valley, where candidates often have to wait three to five months for their turn, as reported by NST.

Instructor Quotas

The Road Transport Department (RTD) has set quotas for instructors, allowing one instructor per car or lorry candidate and one instructor for up to five motorcycle candidates.

Shortage of Instructors

Many driving schools are struggling to meet demand due to these quotas. For instance, Rawang Driving Institutes currently has 54 instructors but needs five more.

(more…)

2025 Volkswagen Golf R: 329hp, 420Nm of Torque – 268km/h Top Speed

Volkswagen has just introduced the new Golf R, bringing notable updates and enhancements for the 2025 model year. Here’s a detailed look at what’s new:

Engine and Performance

Engine: Turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder
Power: 329hp (14hp more than the previous model)
Torque: 420Nm
Acceleration: 0 to 100km/h per hour in 4.6 seconds
Transmission: Seven-speed dual-clutch automatic with torque vectoring
Drivetrain: All-wheel drive

Top Speed

With Performance Package: 268km/h
Without Performance Package: 249km/h

Exterior Features

New LED Plus Headlights: Frame the illuminated badge, now standard
Front Bumper: Redesigned with aerodynamic elements and high-gloss black finish
Rear: Standard LED taillights, black diffuser, quad tailpipes
Wheels: Standard 18-inch Jerez wheels; 19-inch wheels with the Performance Package

Performance Package

Additions: Large roof spoiler, 19-inch wheels, G-meter, GPS lap timer
Drive Modes: Special and Drift modes, tailored for the Nurburgring track

Interior Updates

Infotainment: 12.9-inch touchscreen
Instrument Cluster: 10.2-inch digital with VW’s Digital Cockpit Pro
Controls: Redesigned, illuminated volume and temperature sliders

Special Editions and Packages

Golf R Black Edition (Europe only): Darkened VW badges and R logos, black callipers, black 19-inch Estoril wheels, black tailpipe trim, optional IQ.Light LED matrix headlights, and Performance pack as standard.
19-inch Warmenau Forged Wheel: 8kg lighter per rim compared to similar alloy wheels.

Pricing

2024 Golf R (Manual): Starting at $46,890 (RM221,381) (including $1,225 (RM5,783) destination charge)
2024 Golf R (Automatic): Starting at $47,690 (RM225,158)

The new Golf R continues to build on its legacy with enhanced power, refined design elements, and advanced technology, ensuring it remains a top contender in the premium hatchback segment.

Jaecoo Launches First 3S Dealership in Klang Valley

Jaecoo Malaysia has launched its first dealership in Klang Valley, specifically in Glenmarie, Shah Alam. This flagship 3S dealership, operated by ES Premium Holdings Sdn Bhd, marks the beginning of Jaecoo’s premium off-road SUV presence in Malaysia. The brand plans to establish 34 more dealerships in the upcoming months.

(more…)

Aston Martin Valiant: 745PS Track-Focused and Road-Legal Monster

Aston Martin has announced the Valiant, an ultra-exclusive, track-focused, road-legal special edition car. This car, developed by the bespoke division Q by Aston Martin, is powered by a 745PS Twin Turbo 5.2-litre V12 engine paired with a six-speed manual transmission. With production limited to just 38 units globally, all have already been allocated.

Origins and Inspiration

The Valiant was initially a personal commission from Aston Martin Aramco Formula One® Team driver, Fernando Alonso. Inspired by Alonso’s 23-year career in Formula 1 and his love for driving at the limit, the Valiant was born as a more extreme, race car-inspired version of the Aston Martin Valour.

Key Features and Specifications

Engine and Performance:
- 745PS Twin Turbo 5.2-litre V12 engine.
- 753Nm of torque.
- Six-speed manual transmission.
- Standard-fit Carbon Ceramic brakes: 410mm x 38mm front, 360mm x 32mm rear.

Weight Reduction:
- 3D-printed rear subframe saves 3kg.
- Magnesium torque tube reduces mass by 8.6kg.
- Lightweight 21” magnesium wheels reduce unsprung mass by 14kg.
- Motorsport-spec lithium-ion battery saves 11.5kg.

Suspension:
- Multimatic Adaptive Spool Valve (ASV) dampers, capable of 32 discrete damper curves.
- Three pre-set Driving Modes: Sport, Sport+, and Track, recalibrated for the new setup.
Aerodynamics and Design:
- Extensive use of lightweight carbon fibre.
- Deep front splitter, full-width carbon fibre grille, and scalloped side fenders for aerodynamic efficiency.
- Carbon fibre aero discs on the 21” magnesium wheels.
- Functional rear diffuser and a prominent fixed wing.

Interior:
- Two-seat cockpit with exposed satin-finish carbon fibre.
- New round steering wheel for intuitive feel.
- Exposed gear linkage and bespoke spherical gear knob for the manual gearbox.
- Built-in half-cage with bespoke trimmed Recaro Podium seats and 4-point race harnesses.

Launch and Availability

The Valiant will make its public debut at the 2024 Goodwood Festival of Speed (July 11-14), with dynamic demonstrations on the famous Hill Climb course. The first deliveries are set to commence in Q4 2024. Fernando Alonso will drive one of the demonstration runs at the Goodwood Festival of Speed.

Foreign Vehicles Required to Register for VEP Starting October, Singaporean Cars Targeted

The Malaysian government is set to enforce the Vehicle Entry Permit (VEP) for foreign vehicles, particularly from Singapore, starting October 1. Transport Minister Anthony Loke has emphasised the government’s firm stance on this decision, highlighting the importance of compliance with Malaysian road laws for all foreign drivers.

Key Points of the VEP Implementation:

Strict Enforcement:
- The VEP will be mandatory from October 1, with no changes or delays to this enforcement date.
- Foreign drivers, especially from Singapore, must comply with Malaysian road regulations.
Compliance Expectations:
- Singaporean drivers entering Malaysia are expected to adhere to the same legal standards that Malaysian drivers must follow when entering Singapore.
- Foreign drivers must pay any fines for traffic violations before leaving Malaysia.
Tracking and Enforcement:
- Currently, without the VEP, there is no effective method to track foreign vehicles and enforce traffic laws.
- The VEP will enable Malaysian authorities to monitor foreign vehicles and ensure payment of fines for any traffic violations.
Entry Points for VEP Enforcement:
- Sultan Iskandar Building (BSI) at Johor Causeway.
- Sultan Abu Bakar Building at Malaysia-Singapore Second Link.

(more…)

2025 BMW M5: Most Powerful, Advanced and Heaviest M5 Yet

The 2025 BMW M5 is set to be the most powerful iteration of the iconic badge, boasting impressive performance capabilities and cutting-edge technology. However, it also holds the distinction of being the heaviest M5 to date, primarily due to its new hybrid powertrain.

Powertrain and Performance

Engine and Electric Motor:

Engine: Twin-turbocharged 4.4-litre V8
Electric Motor: Integrated into the eight-speed transmission
Total System Output: 717hp and 1,000Nm of torque
Engine Output: 577hp
Motor Output: 194hp
Battery: 14.8 kWh hybrid battery

Performance:

0-100km/h: 3.4 seconds
Top Speed: 250km/h (305km/h with M Driver’s Package)
Electric-Only Range: 40km

Driving Modes and Dynamics

Drive Modes:

Comfort: Optimises for efficiency and smoothness, with the petrol engine shutting off more often.
Sport and Sport Plus: Keep the engine running for a more dynamic experience.
Dynamic and Dynamic Plus: Full power and enhanced cooling for track duty, allows xDrive all-wheel-drive system to switch to rear-wheel drive.

Handling and Braking:

Differential Lock: Electronically controlled, improves cornering by sending power to the needed wheel.
Active Rear Steering: Enhances handling by turning the rear wheels up to 1.5 degrees.
Brakes: Six-piston callipers on 16.1-inch discs at the front, single-piston floating callipers on 15.7-inch discs at the rear. Optional M Carbon ceramic brakes with 16.5-inch front discs, reducing weight by 24kg.

Suspension:

Rear Axle: Model-specific five-link setup with strengthened components.
Front Axle: Double-wishbone design with M5-specific hubs.
Bracing: Extra strut tower, underfloor bracing, and stronger mounts for enhanced rigidity.
Adaptive M Suspension: Standard, with electronically controlled dampers for fine-tuning.

Design and Technology

Exterior:

Dimensions: 3.0 inches wider at the front, 1.9 inches wider at the rear.
Design: Redesigned sides, aggressive front fascia with vents, quad exhaust tips, and a subtle lip spoiler.
Wheels: 20-inch front and 21-inch rear wheels.
Colours: Nine standard colours at launch, with numerous BMW Individual shades available.

Interior and Technology:

Operating System: BMW’s 8.5 operating system with M-specific displays.
HUD: Standard heads-up display.
Entertainment: Video streaming and AirConsole games.
Customisation: Individual settings for suspension, brakes, steering, transmission, and the xDrive system.