Local News Archives

Negligent Maintenance: A Key Factor in Commercial Vehicle Accidents, Warns JPJ

Negligent vehicle maintenance has been identified as a significant cause of accidents involving commercial vehicles, according to the Director General of the Road Transport Department (JPJ), Datuk Aedy Fadly Ramli.

Speaking at a press conference during the Commercial Vehicle Special Operation at Batu 5, Jalan Bangi Lama, he highlighted that many of these accidents stem from non-compliance with technical standards required for roadworthiness, which is often due to poor maintenance practices, according to Harian Metro.

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Castrol EDGE Launches PowerBoost Technology: 30% Better Engine Performance

Castrol has launched the Castrol EDGE with PowerBoost Technology, a high-performance automotive lubricant that promises a 30% improvement in engine performance compared to standard industry benchmarks. This advanced formulation is specifically engineered to enhance critical engine components such as pistons, valvetrain, and turbochargers, offering superior power and acceleration.

Key Features of Castrol EDGE with PowerBoost Technology:

Power and Acceleration: Designed for drivers who seek more responsiveness from their vehicles, Castrol EDGE with PowerBoost Technology delivers increased power output and faster acceleration times by blending premium synthetic oils with unique additives.
Tested Performance: Real-world simulations have shown the oil to deliver better torque and efficiency, with vehicles utilising this oil achieving quicker acceleration compared to those using standard oils.
Engine Protection: Apart from boosting performance, the lubricant also offers excellent engine protection, ensuring durability over time, even under tough driving conditions.

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Proton e.MAS 7 Tour Kicks Off an Electrifying Chapter for Malaysia’s First National EV Brand

The Proton e.MAS 7 Tour is officially kicking off on 5 October 2024, giving Malaysians their first up-close experience with Proton’s first electric vehicle (EV). Covering over 2,000 km across all Malaysian states, the tour showcases the e.MAS 7’s capabilities and highlight Proton’s commitment to innovation and engineering excellence.

In its final phase of testing, the e.MAS 7 is being tailored for the Malaysian market through rigorous trials. The tour, inspired by the Geely E5’s Long Test Drive from China to Malaysia, will traverse Malaysian roads, starting in Negeri Sembilan and finishing in Sarawak on 29 November, while stopping at charging stations and local eateries.

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Zeekr Malaysia Opens Bookings for 009 MPV and X SUV

Zeekr Malaysia has officially launched its operations, offering the Zeekr X compact urban all-electric SUV and the ultra-luxurious Zeekr 009 MPV. Bookings are now open for both models, with indicative pricing set at below RM180,000 for the Zeekr X and below RM370,000 for the Zeekr 009. The booking fees are RM2,000 and RM4,000, respectively. Sentinel Automotive Sdn Bhd, the official distributor, will provide sales, after-sales services, and spare parts.

Zeekr X: A Premium Urban Electric SUV

The Zeekr X is available in two variants—Premium and Flagship AWD. The Flagship AWD features dual motors with 422hp, achieving 0-100km/h in just 3.8 seconds. The Premium variant offers 268hp and reaches 0-100km/h in 5.6 seconds. Both versions use a 66kWh battery, capable of charging from 10% to 80% in just 30 minutes via a 150kW DC charger.

The Zeekr X comes in five colours: Crystal White, Mist Grey, Grid Grey, Palace Beige, and Pine Green, with Charcoal Black and Stone Grey interior options. It features a full suite of safety and driver assistance systems, including 7 airbags, a 360° camera, and Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS).

Zeekr 009: A Luxurious and Powerful MPV

The Zeekr 009 MPV is available in two configurations—a 7-seater Luxury model and a 6-seater Ultra Luxury version. It boasts dual motors with 603hp and 693Nm of torque, achieving 0-100km/h in 4.5 seconds. The MPV is equipped with a 116kWh battery, offering a range of up to 582km.

Inside, the Zeekr 009 offers premium features, including aeronautic seats, massage functions, a 15.05″ OLED infotainment system, a 17″ roof-mounted screen, 30 YAMAHA surround speakers, and various high-tech amenities.

To book your Zeekr model, visit Zeekr Malaysia’s booking page.

Zeekr 009 MPV

Zeekr X SUV

Proton’s SUV Success Drives September Sales Amid Slower Market

Proton has reported a strong sales performance for September, selling 11,269 units (including domestic and export), bringing the company’s year-to-date (YTD) total to 112,758 units. This solidifies Proton’s second position in the national automotive sales rankings with a forecasted market share of 20.1% for the month and a YTD figure of 19.1% for 2024.

September is historically a slower month for car sales, and this year was no exception, with the total industry volume (TIV) estimated at 56,067 units, marking a 22.2% decrease from the previous month. Despite the dip, the YTD total remains ahead of 2023, with the industry having sold nearly 590,000 units so far, reflecting a 3% increase from last year.

Proton, however, continues to lead in key SUV segments. The 2025 Proton X70, which was launched in August, recorded 1,466 units sold in September, making it the best-selling C-segment SUV for the month. This is the highest sales figure for the model since December 2022, nearly doubling its August numbers, indicating strong interest in the refreshed design and enhanced technology of the SUV.

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All-New MG5 Sedan Officially Launched in Malaysia – Priced at RM93,900 with a RM7k Rebate Offer!

SAIC Motor gave us a preview of the all-new MG5 Sedan back in August of this year with an estimated price of below RM100,000 and we were impressed by it. Today, SAIC Motor Malaysia Sdn. Bhd. has officially launched the MG5 Sedan with a price tag of RM93,900!

In celebration of MG’s 100-year anniversary, customers can take advantage of the all-new MG5 with the exclusive introductory offer of RM7,000 rebate!

The MG5 features a sleek fastback profile that includes a ducktail spoiler, a striking 3D front grille, and a power sunroof, all of which enhance its sporty appeal. It is equipped with automatic LED headlights and striking 17-inch Tomahawk alloy wheels, projecting a sense of sophistication on the road.

Inside, the cabin impresses with its modern and spacious layout, showcasing a 7-inch digital instrument cluster and a 10.25-inch floating infotainment system. The luxurious leather upholstery, accented with red details, adds to the interior’s allure. The driver benefits from a 6-way electrically adjustable seat, while tech enthusiasts will appreciate the vehicle’s connectivity options, which include Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Under the hood, the MG5 is powered by a 1.5-litre petrol engine that delivers 114PS and 150Nm of torque. This engine is paired with an 8-speed iCVT automatic transmission and has undergone extensive testing, ensuring reliable performance over 2.35 million kilometres.

Safety is a top priority for the MG5, which is equipped with the MG PILOT suite of driver assistance features. This includes Lane Departure Warning, Blind Spot Detection, and Rear Cross Traffic Alert, along with standard safety systems such as Electronic Stability Program (ESP), ABS, Traction Control, and six SRS airbags, further enhancing its safety credentials.

The MG5 is available in five vibrant colours: Nuclear Yellow, Dynamic Red, Arctic White, Black Pearl, and Camden Grey. To underscore its commitment to quality and customer satisfaction, MG offers robust warranty packages for the MG5, including a 5-year Unlimited Mileage Warranty for the vehicle and a 7-year Unlimited Mileage Warranty for the powertrain.

With its blend of stylish design, advanced technology, and safety features, the MG5 Sedan is poised to attract buyers seeking a reliable and well-equipped vehicle in the competitive B-segment market.

Used Car Dealer Ordered to Cover Full Cost of Compressor Replacement

In a recent decision by the Johor Consumer Claims Tribunal, a used car dealer was ordered to cover the full cost of replacing a compressor in a customer’s hybrid car. Tribunal president Hafez Zalkapli emphasised that it is the dealer’s duty to ensure the used cars they sell are in good working condition.

According to The Star, the claimant, N. Kalaivane, was awarded RM7,500, which the dealer must pay directly to a workshop in Taman Daya, Johor Baru, for the compressor replacement and associated services.

Kalaivane and her husband had purchased a German-brand hybrid car from a dealer in Kajang, Selangor, in February 2024. Despite the dealer’s promise to service the car before delivery, the air-conditioning system failed shortly after she returned to Johor Baru.

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Court Fines Mechanic RM5k for Ignoring Consumer Tribunal’s Order on Vehicle Repair Case

A mechanic, Muhamad Zamzam Mohd Razali, was fined RM5,000 by the Ipoh Magistrate’s Court for failing to comply with a tribunal order to pay RM6,750 to a lecturer. The fine stems from a case two years ago, where the Malaysian Consumer Claims Tribunal (TTPM) had ruled in favour of the lecturer after the mechanic failed to complete vehicle repairs as promised.

The case was prosecuted by the Perak Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living (KPDN), led by Prosecuting Officer Muhammad Ridzuan Abd Rahim. Magistrate Farah Nabihah Muhamad Dan delivered the verdict, and the court found Muhamad Zamzam guilty under Section 117(1) of the Consumer Protection Act 1999.

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Sime Darby Motors Reassures BYD Customers in Malaysia: Recall Limited to China Market

BYD has announced a recall of nearly 100,000 vehicles in China due to a manufacturing fault that presents a potential fire risk. The recall, which involves 96,714 Dolphin and Yuan PLUS electric vehicles, began on September 30th, 2024, according to China’s State Administration for Market Regulation (SAMR).

The issue stems from defects in the electric power steering column assembly (CEPS) controller. During manufacturing, the equipment tool cover may interfere with capacitors on the controller’s circuit board, leading to micro-cracks in the capacitors. Over time, these cracks can expand, causing short circuits, overheating, and potentially resulting in fires.

To address the issue, BYD dealers will install insulation pads on the controllers at no cost, mitigating the risk. Owners of affected vehicles will be notified through registered mail, WeChat, and phone calls, and a customer service hotline has been set up for further assistance.

Meanwhile, Sime Darby Motors, the official distributor of BYD vehicles in Malaysia, has reassured customers that the BYD models sold in Malaysia are not affected by the recent recall announcement by BYD in China. The recall pertains only to vehicles sold in the China market.

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Proton e.MAS Dealers Gain Cutting-Edge Insights on Geely R&D Tour in China

PRO-NET, a subsidiary of Proton, has announced the appointment of 36 Proton e.MAS dealerships, more than doubling the initial 17 dealerships announced in June 2024. This move highlights PRO-NET’s commitment to advancing Malaysia’s EV market and expanding its customer service network.

The dealership expansion was complemented by a visit to the Geely Research Institute (GRI) in Hangzhou, China, which was attended by over 40 Malaysian dealer executives and principals. The three-day tour offered participants insights into Geely’s advanced technology and the operations behind selling and servicing premium EV models at Geely dealerships.

Zhang Qiang, CEO of PRO-NET, stated that since the Proton e.MAS brand launch in June, the development pace has been rapid. The addition of 19 new dealerships reflects the excitement surrounding the upcoming Proton e.MAS 7 model and the overwhelming enthusiasm from dealer principals who joined the Geely tour. He emphasised how Geely’s intelligent technology and research have prepared the dealerships for the arrival of Malaysia’s first EV.

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Local News

Negligent Maintenance: A Key Factor in Commercial Vehicle Accidents, Warns JPJ

Castrol EDGE Launches PowerBoost Technology: 30% Better Engine Performance

Key Features of Castrol EDGE with PowerBoost Technology:

Proton e.MAS 7 Tour Kicks Off an Electrifying Chapter for Malaysia’s First National EV Brand

Zeekr Malaysia Opens Bookings for 009 MPV and X SUV

Zeekr X: A Premium Urban Electric SUV

Zeekr 009: A Luxurious and Powerful MPV

Proton’s SUV Success Drives September Sales Amid Slower Market

All-New MG5 Sedan Officially Launched in Malaysia – Priced at RM93,900 with a RM7k Rebate Offer!

Used Car Dealer Ordered to Cover Full Cost of Compressor Replacement

Court Fines Mechanic RM5k for Ignoring Consumer Tribunal’s Order on Vehicle Repair Case

Sime Darby Motors Reassures BYD Customers in Malaysia: Recall Limited to China Market

Proton e.MAS Dealers Gain Cutting-Edge Insights on Geely R&D Tour in China

Proton Expands Global Presence with New CKD Plant in Egypt

Malaysia Targets 20% EV Sales by 2030 Amid Growing Adoption and Infrastructure Expansion

East Coast Rail Line (ECRL) Progress Update: Phase One and Two Completion Dates Announced

Lalamove Enters Ride-Hailing Market with New Service in Klang Valley

Sinkhole Developed On NKVE Following Heavy Rainfall

Bentley Crossover SUV EV to Debut in 2026

Penang to Launch Six-Month Trial of Dedicated Bus Lanes

Chery Malaysia Celebrates First Locally Assembled Electric Vehicle, the Omoda E5

SAIC Motor Malaysia Celebrates First Wave of MG5 Sedan Deliveries

RON95 Fuel Subsidy Targeting: Economists Favor MyKad Quota Over Cash Assistance

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