The Zeekr 7X made its anticipated debut at the Chengdu Auto Show on August 30, marking the latest innovation in Zeekr’s electric vehicle (EV) lineup. Set for deliveries in China by the end of September, with international shipments within a year, the 7X is designed with a global audience in mind.
The 7X is a midsize electric SUV built on Geely’s Sustainable Experience Architecture (SEA) platform, utilising advanced 800V architecture. It measures 4,825 mm in length, 1,930 mm in width, and features a wheelbase of 2,925 mm, slightly bigger than a Honda CR-V, with a curb weight ranging from 2,298 to 2,475 kg.
Chery Malaysia proudly celebrated the grand opening of its latest 4S showroom and service centre in Negeri Sembilan, operated by long-time dealer-partner Taycn Kredit Sdn Bhd. The formal launch event was attended by Chery’s existing customers and was marked with festivities.
The new 4S centre, located at Lot 2413, Pekan Rahang Baru, Jalan Tampin, Seremban, spans 1,317 square meters and provides a comprehensive experience for customers, from vehicle viewing to after-sales service and maintenance. It offers a fully equipped service centre with four service bays, all staffed by Chery’s highly trained technicians.
The grand launch of Chery Seremban was joined by members of the WCWL (With Chery, With Love) community, a group of passionate Chery owners, adding a sense of camaraderie to the event. Following the ceremony, members of the WCWL group participated in a convoy around Seremban town, showcasing their pride in the brand.
Jaecoo Malaysia is making significant strides in delivering its premium off-road J7 SUVs to eager customers across the nation. The highly anticipated J7 All-wheel Drive SUV has begun hitting Malaysian roads and off-road terrains, with over 500 units already handed over to excited new owners.
The first wave of deliveries represents the timely arrival of the All-wheel Drive J7s at dealerships nationwide. As Jaecoo Malaysia continues to meet demand, the company is also preparing for an earlier-than-expected delivery of the J7 Two-wheel Drive variant, which will now reach dealerships ahead of the initial September date.
Jaecoo Elevates Ownership Experience with Exclusive J-Club Membership
Jaecoo is positioning the ownership experience as more than just a handover process. Emily Lek, Vice President of Jaecoo Malaysia, emphasised that the journey continues through the elite J-Club. “Every Jaecoo owner automatically becomes an elite J-Club member, enjoying benefits that go beyond standard service. This includes personalised service from highly trained personnel dedicated to ensuring peace of mind for each owner.”
BMW has introduced the fourth generation of its popular X3 Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV), boasting a sportier and more versatile design that enhances its appeal for everyday use, leisure, and travel. With a new design language and an array of customisation options, the latest X3 promises a dynamic driving experience and elevated style.
New Design Language and M Sport Enhancements
The new BMW X3 features a refreshed design language that gives it a commanding presence on the road. Available with the M Sport Package and M Sport Package Pro, the new X3 offers an even more elegant and athletic appearance. For those seeking further personalisation, BMW M Performance Parts are also available, crafted from high-quality materials such as carbon fibre reinforced plastic (CFRP), aramid, and high-gloss polyurethane. These parts are designed to perfectly match the X3’s geometry and enhance its sporty character.
Exterior Enhancements for a Distinctive Look
The new X3 can be customised with several exterior enhancements. The M Performance front splitter, made from CFRP and finished in high-gloss black, adds a bold touch to the front of the vehicle. Complementing this is the M Performance front ornamental grille, also painted in high-gloss black.
Domestic car sales in Thailand took a sharp dive in July 2024, registering a year-on-year decrease of 20.5%, according to the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI). The significant drop, which saw sales volumes fall to 46,394 units, is largely attributed to the country’s sluggish economic growth and mounting household debt.
The decline in car sales mirrored a 16.6% year-on-year fall in overall car manufacturing, with production numbers dropping to 124,829 units for the month.
Banks have tightened their lending requirements amid concerns over rising non-performing loans, which soared by 29.7% in July compared to the same period last year. These loans, now valued at 250 billion baht, have made it harder for potential buyers to secure auto financing. This is compounded by the nation’s household debt-to-GDP ratio, which stands at a staggering 91%.
Particularly affected were pure pickup sales, which plunged by 35.1% year-on-year, totalling just 13,167 units in July. This steep decline in the pickup segment was a key contributor to the overall drop in domestic car sales.
The Thai government’s 2024 budget allocation was delayed due to the lengthy formation of the Pheu Thai-led coalition government following the May 2023 general election. Although the budget plan was finally approved in March, the delay dampened economic activity and contributed to the prolonged slump in car sales.
As a result of the weak domestic market, the FTI has reduced its car manufacturing target for 2024 to 1.7 million units, down from the initial goal of 1.9 million units.
Residents in Taman Ipoh Timur, commonly known as Ipoh Garden East, are expressing growing concerns over the frequent accidents occurring on Jalan Perajurit, especially at the junction with Persiaran Perajurit 3. This road, a key thoroughfare for locals, connects residential areas such as Taman Kaya, Taman Kemuncak, and Taman Perak, and also leads to other neighbourhoods in Bercham, Tambun, and Sunway City Ipoh.
According to The Star, the accidents are caused by inadequate speed bumps, low dividers, speeding, and insufficient road signage. A long-time resident highlighted that this issue has persisted for over 15 years, noting that the junction near a coffee shop on Persiaran Perajurit 3 is particularly problematic. Motorcyclists often cut across vehicles, contributing to daily accidents, sometimes multiple times a day.
Residents are also frustrated by motorists who park illegally near the hawker stalls at the junction, exacerbating the traffic situation. Despite the availability of parking behind the shophouses, many drivers refuse to use them.
During a town hall meeting organised by the Ipoh City Council (MBI), other residents echoed these concerns. A housewife recounted her own near-miss due to reckless motorcyclists. Another resident since 1992, emphasised the severity of the situation, noting numerous unreported accidents and the unbearable noise from motorbikes at night. He suggested raising the road’s dividers and adding reflective signage to enhance visibility and safety.
In response to the residents’ concerns, MBI has proposed installing two traffic lights—one at the Persiaran Perajurit 3 junction and another at Laluan Perajurit 1—and converting several roads into one-way streets to improve traffic flow. While some believe these measures will help, others, like the president of the Taman Kaya Residents Association, argue that these are only temporary solutions. He called for a long-term plan, especially with upcoming developments in the area, including a university, a shopping centre, and a hospital, which are expected to increase traffic significantly.
Audi is gearing up to unveil the third generation of its popular Q5 crossover on September 2, 2024. The teaser image released by the automaker reveals the driver-side headlight, showing a sleeker, more aggressive design with thinner, swept-back LED elements. Lighting, a long-time signature of Audi’s design, remains a focal point, and the new Q5 will likely feature configurable LED elements, continuing the brand’s innovative lighting traditions. The hood also appears more sculpted, hinting at a more dynamic look.
Though specifics on the powertrain have yet to be revealed, it is known that the upcoming Q5 will not feature an electric option. Audi’s recently implemented naming system indicates that odd-numbered models will continue to be powered by gasoline, while even-numbered models, like the upcoming Q6, will be electric. This ensures that the next Q5 will maintain internal combustion engine powertrains.
The all-electric automotive brand smart has officially introduced the smart #5 at a world premiere event in Byron Bay, Australia. As smart’s third electric vehicle, the smart #5 marks the brand’s entry into the premium mid-size SUV segment, joining the smart #1 and #3 models in offering innovative electric mobility. The SUV is designed by Mercedes-Benz, showcasing signature design elements like the panoramic halo roof, frameless doors, and compact front and rear overhangs.
The smart #5, with a length of 4,705 mm and a wheelbase of 2,900 mm, features premium styling elements such as dual-coloured mirrors, floating wheel caps, and a smart logo on the D-pillar. The SUV also debuts the exclusive Adventurers’ Collection, which includes practical features like a roof light bar, electric trailer hitch, and underbody protection for enhanced utility.
The interior of the smart #5 is designed with high-tech and luxurious elements, including zero-gravity seats with integrated airbags, ambient lighting with 256 colour options, a Sennheiser Signature Sound System with 20 speakers, and entertainment features such as a built-in projector. The vehicle also offers ample storage space, including a 72-litre frunk and a spacious rear storage area of up to 1,530 litres.
The 2025 Proton X70 has officially launched in East Malaysia, marking a significant moment for Proton as it tailored a dedicated debut for its popular C-segment SUV. This launch emphasises Proton’s focus on the Sabah and Sarawak markets, highlighting the importance of these regions in the brand’s growth strategy. The X70, initially launched in December 2018, has been enhanced with a comprehensive range of upgrades to keep it at the forefront of the SUV segment, including refreshed styling, improved interior features, advanced safety systems, and a powerful turbocharged engine.
Key to the success of the Proton X70 is its importance in the premium SUV market across Malaysia, where it has gained a loyal following with over 100,000 units sold and seven awards to its name. Globally, its Geely Boyue counterpart has been equally successful, with over 1.8 million units sold across 49 countries. The latest iteration, the 2025 Proton X70, is designed to build on this legacy by offering cutting-edge features and enhanced performance that cater specifically to the unique needs of East Malaysian customers.
Hyundai Motor Group is pushing the boundaries of automotive innovation, especially with electrification, hybrid, and hydrogen-powered vehicles at the core of its future strategy. While many traditional car manufacturers are cautiously advancing in these areas, Hyundai’s recent 2024 CEO Investor Day presentation showcases its bold plans, particularly with its thrilling N Vision 74 concept. This concept, a hydrogen hybrid sports car, will become a production model, signalling Hyundai’s commitment to groundbreaking technology.
The N Vision 74 concept made its debut two years ago with Hyundai President and CEO Jae Hoon Chang taking it for a spin at the Nürburgring racetrack. The car’s design takes inspiration from the 1974 Hyundai Pony Coupe, designed by the legendary Giorgetto Giugiaro. Despite the retro nod, the N Vision 74 boasts a modern aesthetic with sharp lines, a large rear spoiler, and digital lighting reminiscent of the Ioniq 5. However, the car’s real innovation lies in its unique powertrain.
