Experts foresee a notable impact on Malaysia’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and substantial savings following the recent adjustment of diesel subsidies by the government, setting the pump price at RM3.35 per litre.
According to NST, Prof Emeritus Dr. Barjoyai Bardai of Malaysia University of Science and Technology (MUST) pointed out a significant surge in Malaysia’s diesel consumption, reaching 10.8 billion litres last year from 6.2 billion litres previously.
He emphasised that despite the new price, Malaysia’s diesel remains competitively priced compared to neighbouring countries like Thailand, Indonesia, and Singapore. Dr. Barjoyai also highlighted the government’s Budi Madani assistance initiative, aimed at easing the burden on individuals, particularly private diesel vehicle users.
Dr. Barjoyai expressed confidence in the government’s subsidy initiative for those in need, expecting it to help regulate commodity prices, although he stressed the importance of active price monitoring.
Amidst challenging financial conditions and under fresh ownership and leadership, McLaren, the iconic British supercar maker, is striving to turn around its financial performance. The company recently disclosed significant losses totalling £873 million attributed to slow sales and reduced revenue.
Strategic Shift to Address Financial Challenges
To tackle these financial issues, McLaren is changing its strategy from the one set by its former leadership. The new plan involves entering the more profitable SUV market, a segment already popular among competitors. McLaren’s new CEO, Michael Leiters, has hinted at this shift by referring to the upcoming model as a “shared performance vehicle” (SPV), with a focus on performance.
Leiters explained that to unlock our full potential as a company, they believe there is a second stage. They aim to expand their lineup beyond the segment we currently occupy. They call this ‘shared performance,’ because it allows more people to experience McLaren performance.
One of the most enigmatic cars in Porsche’s storied history is the 930 TAG Turbo. Long shrouded in mystery, the existence of the Formula 1-engined 911 was for decades, considered a mere rumour. However, the legend is real, and now, it’s making a powerful comeback with even more performance than before.
The original Porsche 930 TAG Turbo originated in the 1980s as a result of McLaren’s Formula 1 team collaboration with Porsche. McLaren, seeking to compete with Renault’s potent turbo engines, partnered with Porsche to develop a unique 1.5-litre twin-turbo V6, a departure from Porsche’s typical engine designs. This TAG-funded and branded engine required a test platform, which became the 911 Turbo, thus creating the 930 TAG Turbo.
In recent years, McLaren’s partner, Lanzante, renowned for their Le Mans victory with the F1 GTR, acquired the remaining TAG Turbo engines. They decided to expand the 930 TAG Turbo’s legacy into a limited production run. This newest version, rebranded as the TAG Championship, is set to debut at this year’s Goodwood Festival of Speed.
Cosworth, in collaboration with Lanzante, has reworked the Grand Prix-used F1 engines to enhance drivability on the road. The engines now feature new internals, improved cooling systems, and modern titanium turbochargers. The result is a significant power boost from 503hp to 625hp, with the engines capable of revving up to 10,250 rpm. This formidable powertrain is paired with a modified six-speed manual transmission from a Porsche 993, featuring unique gear ratios, enabling the car to exceed a top speed of 321km/h.
The TAG Championship boasts extensive use of carbon fiber in its construction, resulting in a stripped-down interior that includes a roll cage and Recaro bucket seats. These modifications have reduced the car’s dry weight by over 400kg, bringing it down to a mere 920kg, significantly enhancing its performance.
In terms of aesthetics, the TAG Championship pays homage to its racing heritage with styling cues inspired by the McLaren MP4/2. It features wheels and a steering wheel that echo the design of the iconic Formula 1 car, and its livery is modelled after the helmet of Alain Prost, who won the drivers’ championship in 1985.
Only three of these extraordinary cars will be produced, each celebrating one of the three TAG Championship wins. Given their exclusivity and heritage, it’s no surprise that these magnificent machines are likely already spoken for.
Volkswagen has announced a significant shift in its electrification strategy, redirecting a portion of its EV-designated funds towards the development of petrol engines. Arno Antlitz, the company’s Chief Financial Officer, revealed that Volkswagen will allocate approximately $65 billion to ensure its combustion-engine cars remain competitive.
Despite acknowledging that electric vehicles (EVs) represent the future, Antlitz emphasised that traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) technology still has a crucial role. This adjustment marks a departure from Volkswagen’s earlier commitments, including its stated goal to sell EVs in Europe by 2033 exclusively. The company had previously projected that EVs would comprise 80 per cent of its global sales by the end of the decade.
The implications of this strategic shift for Volkswagen’s model lineup in the United States remain uncertain. However, it is anticipated that the U.S. market may see an increase in hybrid models alongside existing petrol-engine vehicles like the GTI. Volkswagen’s ID electric vehicles, particularly the ID.4, have faced lukewarm market reception in the U.S., potentially influencing this reallocation of resources.
GWM Malaysia is thrilled to unveil the highly anticipated GWM ORA 07 Performance variant, marking a significant advancement in the company’s mission to provide environmentally conscious transportation solutions. This new variant seamlessly blends a sleek, stylish design with exceptional performance, setting a new benchmark for electric coupes.
Performance and Design
The GWM ORA 07 Performance variant promises an unparalleled driving experience with its impressive acceleration, reaching 0 to 100km/h in just 4.3 seconds. The car’s sophisticated design and cutting-edge features are designed to exceed customer expectations, offering both luxury and intelligence in one package.
Arrival and Availability
GWM Malaysia informs its valued customers that the first batch of the GWM ORA 07 Performance variant is expected to arrive by the end of June 2024. This timely arrival ensures that customers will soon be able to enjoy the luxurious and elegant design, along with the car’s advanced intelligent features.
Commitment to Sustainability
The introduction of the GWM ORA 07 Performance variant underscores GWM Malaysia’s commitment to sustainability and the future of eco-friendly transportation. This model represents a significant step forward in providing high-performance electric vehicles to the Malaysian market.
BMW Malaysia has introduced the BMW 218i Gran Coupe Final Edition, along with the BMW X3 sDrive20i Final Edition and BMW X3 xDrive30e Final Edition. These special editions feature sportier aesthetics and enhanced equipment lists, catering to those seeking a blend of luxury and performance.
BMW 218i Gran Coupe Final Edition
Locally Assembled with Dynamic Upgrades
All three models are locally assembled and come equipped with the M Sport package, known for its dynamic and sporty attributes. The BMW 218i Gran Coupe Final Edition maintains its elegance with added Shadowline Extended Contents and 18-inch M light alloy wheels. The interior upgrades include wireless charging and a 10-speaker HiFi system, enhancing convenience and entertainment on the go.
BMW X3 sDrive20i Final Edition
Enhanced BMW X3 Models
The BMW X3 sDrive20i Final Edition and BMW X3 xDrive30e Final Edition maintain their robust off-road appeal. Both models now feature M Lights Shadowline and high-gloss Shadowline extended contents, while the xDrive30e variant is further distinguished by a red high-gloss M Sport brake. Additionally, both models are equipped with Active Cruise Control with Stop&Go Function, improving driving comfort in stop-and-go traffic. The xDrive30e also includes a Head-Up Display and Parking Assistant Plus, providing a 360-degree view and Remote View 3D functionality. Wireless charging is standard in these editions.
BMW X3 xDrive30e Final Edition
Colour and Upholstery Options
The BMW 218i Gran Coupe Final Edition is available in Skyscraper Grey, Black Sapphire, and Alpine White, with interior upholstery in Black Dakota leather with Blue highlights. The BMW X3 models offer exterior colors in Carbon Black, Alpine White, and M Brooklyn Grey. The X3 sDrive20i interior is available in Mocha or Black Vernasca leather with Décor stitching, while the X3 xDrive30e features similar leather options with Blue stitching.
Financial Plans and Premium Ownership
BMW Group Financial Services Malaysia offers flexible financing plans for these models. The Easy Drive Financing Plan provides monthly installments starting from RM2,760 for the BMW 218i Gran Coupe Final Edition, RM3,909 for the BMW X3 sDrive20i Final Edition, and RM4,577 for the BMW X3 xDrive30e Final Edition, based on a 5-year tenure with 100,000 km mileage at 80% loan amount. Customers can also benefit from Easy Drive Cash Rebates starting from RM4,000.
Alternatively, the Straight-Line Financing Plan offers monthly installments starting from RM2,323 for the BMW 218i Gran Coupe, RM3,486 for the BMW X3 sDrive20i, and RM4,000 for the BMW X3 xDrive30e, based on a 7-year tenure at 80% loan amount.
Owners of these Final Edition models will enjoy the comprehensive BMW Group Malaysia Premium Ownership experience, including BMW Roadside Assistance, Accident Hotline, and BMW Service Online.
Pricing and Availability
The recommended retail prices for the Final Edition models are:
BMW 218i Gran Coupe Final Edition: RM223,800 (plus RM20,600 for BMW Service & Repair Inclusive)
BMW X3 sDrive20i Final Edition: RM311,800 (plus RM26,700 for BMW Service & Repair Inclusive)
BMW X3 xDrive30e Final Edition: RM357,800 (plus RM26,700 for BMW Service & Repair Inclusive)
These special edition variants will be available at all authorized BMW dealerships starting Friday, June 7, 2024. They will also be showcased at the Auto Bavaria AutoFest 2024, taking place at KL Base, Kuala Lumpur, from June 7 to 9, 2024, from 9 am to 7 pm.
Mini is broadening its all-electric vehicle portfolio with the introduction of the new Mini Countryman E. With increased dimensions, the latest Countryman model offers a spacious and family-friendly design. It measures 13cm longer and eight centimetres taller than its predecessor, providing more interior room and enhanced storage capacity. The luggage compartment, with a maximum volume of 1,450 litres, easily accommodates bulky items when the rear seats are folded down. The model’s 202 mm ground clearance ensures a comfortable ride on uneven roads.
Customisable and Stylish Trims
The Mini Countryman E comes in four new vehicle trims, allowing for extensive personalization of both exterior and interior elements. The Favoured Trim highlights brand-typical design features in Vibrant Silver, and buyers can opt for a contrasting roof and mirror caps in the same colour. The model’s clear and streamlined surfaces are accentuated in the striking Blazing Blue shade. Inside, the Favoured Trim includes comfortable sports seats and a newly designed sports steering wheel featuring a textile strap instead of the traditional six o’clock spoke.
Enhanced Performance and Agility
The Countryman E is powered by a 204hp electric motor, delivering 250Nm of torque. This enables the vehicle to accelerate from 0 to 100km/h in 8.6 seconds and reach a top speed of 170km/h. The continuous acceleration of the electric motor enhances agility, emphasizing Mini’s signature go-kart feel. The vehicle’s battery, with an energy content of 66.45 kWh, supports DC fast charging up to 130 kW, allowing the battery to charge from 10% to 80% in just 29 minutes. The model boasts a range of up to 462km in the WLTP test cycle.
Modern and Aerodynamic Design
The new exterior design of the Mini Countryman E accentuates its off-road character. Short overhangs, a short bonnet, and a long wheelbase create a dynamic and agile appearance. The redesigned octagonal front grille and distinctive LED headlamps enhance the vehicle’s modern look. Optional light signatures for the front and rear lights allow for further customization. The slightly curved roof seamlessly connects to the redesigned C-pillar, adding sporty accents, while the distinctive Mini rim designs are available in sizes ranging from 17 to 21 inches.
Spacious and High-Tech Interior
The new Mini Countryman E offers nearly three centimeters of additional width in the shoulder and elbow areas, providing more space and comfort for the driver and passengers. The dashboard features a two-tone textile cover extending into the door panels, while the central round OLED display with a 240 mm diameter and high-quality glass surface controls all infotainment and assistance systems. The new Mini Operating System 9, accessible via touch or voice control, enhances user interaction. The Mini Experience Modes offer an immersive driving experience, and the panoramic glass roof brings natural light into the spacious interior.
Advanced Assistance Systems
The Mini Countryman E includes innovative assistance systems for improved comfort and safety. The optional Driving Assistant Professional enables partially automated Level 2 driving on motorway-like routes, allowing the driver to take hands off the steering wheel at speeds up to 60km/h while remaining alert. This system can identify necessary gaps in traffic for lane changes and adjusts the vehicle’s speed for optimal assisted lane changes.
Mini’s latest offering, the Countryman E, exemplifies the brand’s commitment to combining style, performance, and advanced technology in an all-electric package, making it an ideal choice for families and eco-conscious drivers alike.
In a tragic incident at a factory area on Jalan Lahat-Simpang Pulai, a lorry driver with a record of 100 traffic summonses has been implicated in the death of an elderly man. The accident occurred on Wednesday, June 5.
Ipoh police chief ACP Abang Zainal Abidin Abang Ahmad revealed that the 44-year-old lorry driver also has three previous traffic accident offences. Preliminary investigations indicate that the driver, while reversing his vehicle, failed to notice the senior citizen standing behind. The impact resulted in the victim’s immediate death due to severe injuries to the chest and abdomen. The lorry driver did not sustain any injuries.
The case is being investigated under Section 41(1) of the Road Transport Act 1987 for causing death due to reckless or dangerous driving.
Police are appealing for any witnesses to the accident to come forward and assist with the investigation. Individuals with information are urged to contact the investigating officer, Insp Muhammad Syafiq Fauze, at 013-6713177, or visit the nearest police station.
This incident highlights the critical need for stringent enforcement of traffic regulations and the importance of maintaining road safety to prevent such unfortunate occurrences.
In a significant move for the future of autonomous driving, China has granted nine companies the green light to begin testing Level 3 autonomous driving systems on public roads. This approval comes approximately eight months after the Chinese government issued guidelines for the nationwide initiative and started accepting applications from firms interested in testing their self-driving technologies.
The Chinese Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) has confirmed that Nio, BYD, Changan Auto, GAC, SAIC, BAIC BluePark, China FAW Group, SAIC Hongyan, and Yutong Bus have received approval to test their autonomous vehicles on restricted roads. These tests will allow drivers to take their hands off the steering wheel, marking a significant step towards the deployment of Level 3 semi-autonomous vehicles in China.
While Level 3 autonomous vehicles are not yet commercially available in China, these tests are expected to pave the way for the introduction of such systems for individual buyers and fleet operators. Currently, at least 10 car manufacturers in China, including Huawei and Xpeng, sell vehicles equipped with Level 2 systems.
Proton has reported a significant 13.6% increase in sales for May, with 12,522 units (domestic and export) sold. This surge has cemented the company’s second position in the national automotive sales ranking, achieving a forecast market share of 19%. The company’s sales for the first five months of the year closed at 62,697 units.
The growth in Proton’s sales aligns with the overall trend in the Total Industry Volume (TIV), which is estimated to have grown by 20.7% to approximately 70,000 units in May. The year-to-date (YTD) TIV figure is estimated at 330,236 units, marking an 8.8% increase over 2023.
Export Sales Surge
Proton’s efforts to expand into international markets, including Trinidad and Tobago, Bangladesh, and Iraq, have been fruitful, with export sales reaching 509 units in May—the highest shipment recorded for 2024 so far. Since February, the best-selling export model has been the Proton Saga, leading with 360 units exported in May. Cumulative export sales have reached 1,344 units since January.
