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Sime Darby Berhad and Porsche have announced a significant expansion of Porsche’s assembly facility at Inokom in Kulim, Kedah. This expansion marks a milestone in their longstanding partnership and aims to drive growth in the ASEAN region. Here are the key highlights of this development:

Expansion Details:

  • Facility Size: The assembly facility has been expanded to 11,000 square meters.
  • New Assembly Line: The expansion includes the introduction of a new assembly line for the plug-in hybrid Porsche Cayenne S E-Hybrid Coupe.
  • Export Milestone: The Cayenne S E-Hybrid will be the first locally assembled Porsche model to be exported to Thailand, highlighting the facility’s growing capabilities.

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Naza Italia has introduced the MY24 Maserati Grecale in Malaysia, offering both GT hybrid and Trofeo versions of the brand’s highly anticipated SUV. Dubbed “The Everyday Exceptional,” the Grecale balances versatility, elegance, performance, and innovation, ensuring a blend of performance, comfort, and safety.

The Maserati Grecale, named after a north-easterly Mediterranean wind, was developed at the Maserati Innovation Lab in Modena and produced at the Cassino plant. Launched globally in 2022, the Grecale inaugurates a new SUV segment for Maserati, offering three engine variants: conventional internal combustion, hybrid, and full-electric.

The Grecale GT is powered by a four-cylinder mild hybrid engine delivering 300hp, embodying urban sophistication suitable for dynamic individuals with a refined style. Meanwhile, the Grecale Trofeo is equipped with a high-performance 3.0L 530-hp petrol V6 based on the Nettuno engine from the MC20, designed for those seeking disruptive performance.

The Grecale showcases Maserati’s new visual identity, first seen with the MC20. Its exterior features a low, imposing grille, fluid body lines, boomerang taillights inspired by the Giugiaro 3200 GT, and 20” alloy wheels with body-colour bumpers and side skirts. Inside, the Grecale boasts spaciousness, comfort, and “best-in-class” features such as interior space, driveability, handling, acceleration, sound quality, and fine materials like wood, carbon fibre, and leather. Dimensions for the GT version include a length of 4,846mm, a wheelbase of 2,901mm, and a height of 1,670mm, just slightly bigger than the BMW X4.

The cabin of the Grecale features a sophisticated environment inspired by interior design rather than the automotive sector. A digital transformation of the traditional clockface acts as an in-car concierge via voice control, while touch-based controls are managed by a 12.3” central screen, an 8.8” display for extra controls, and an optional heads-up display in the Trofeo version. The Maserati Intelligent Assistant (MIA) manages the infotainment system, complemented by an immersive Sonus Faber 3D sound system offering up to 21 speakers.

The new Maserati Vehicle Dynamic Control Module (VDCM) system provides 360° control over the car, enhancing handling and driving experience. The VDCM system supports various drive modes: Comfort, GT, Sport, and Off-Road, allowing drivers to shift from utmost comfort to extreme responsiveness.

The Grecale GT is priced from RM634,889.00, inclusive of local duties and taxes, excluding customizations, road tax, and insurance. The Grecale Trofeo is priced from RM1,100,000, inclusive of local duties and taxes, excluding customizations, road tax, and insurance. Both models come with a 3-year full Maserati warranty with no mileage restrictions, with an option to extend the warranty for up to 10 years.

The MY24 Maserati Grecale represents a bold statement for those who live audaciously and choose to stand out, offering an exceptional driving experience every day.

Trofeo

GT

The Federal Court has dismissed an application by former Grab driver, Loh Guet Ching, seeking leave to appeal against a Court of Appeal decision that upheld the Human Resources Minister’s refusal to refer her alleged unfair dismissal case to the Industrial Court.

Panel and Decision

The three-member panel, comprising Chief Justice Tengku Maimun Tuan Mat, Justice Nallini Pathmanathan, and Justice Rhodzariah Bujang, found that the questions of law presented did not meet the requirements under Section 96 of the Courts of Judicature Act 1964. The decision was delivered in online proceedings, with no order as to costs.

Questions of Law

Loh’s lawyer, Ng Kian Nam, sought the court’s determination on six legal questions concerning whether e-hailing drivers and gig economy workers should pursue unfair dismissal disputes in the industrial or civil courts. However, the Senior Federal Counsel, Nik Noor Nik Kar, and lawyer T Thavalingam, representing MyTeksi Sdn Bhd (operating under Grab), contended that the questions were not novel and thus did not justify the appeal.

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Firefly, a subsidiary of Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG), has officially launched its jet operations at Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah Airport in Subang (SZB). Ticket sales for Penang and Kota Kinabalu routes begin on July 22, 2024.

Promotional Fares and Travel Dates

To celebrate the launch, Firefly is offering promotional fares:

  • Subang to Penang (PEN): RM129 one-way
  • Subang to Kota Kinabalu (BKI): RM249 one-way

These promotional fares are available for travel between August 29, 2024, and August 6, 2025. The all-inclusive fares come with:

  • 10kg of check-in baggage
  • 7kg of carry-on baggage
  • Free onboard refreshments

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smart Malaysia proudly announces the launch of smartCO, a groundbreaking community privileges programme designed exclusively for smart EV owners. This initiative stands as one of the industry’s pioneering efforts to cultivate a robust community where business opportunities flourish, all seamlessly integrated via the cutting-edge Hello smart App.

smartCO is more than just a programme; it embodies the spirit of innovation and collaboration, inviting all smart EV owners to co-create a dynamic community that thrives on mutual benefits. Whether you’re a restaurateur, photographer, legal consultant, or freelance writer, smartCO welcomes businesses of all kinds to join this movement.

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Proton has announced that the newly-launched 2024  Proton X50 has received an overwhelming response, amassing a total of 8,000 bookings within just one month  since its debut in June. This positive demand has far exceeded our expectations, setting a new benchmark for its  segment. Since its original debut in 2020, the Proton X50 has been Malaysia’s best-selling SUV, with 115,262 units  sold up to June. 

Ramp up production to meet overwhelming demand 

The enthusiastic reception of the 2024 Proton X50 underscores its prominent position in the SUV market. In  response to this overwhelming demand, Proton is ramping up production to expedite delivery timeline for eager  customers by August 2024. All customers who are entitled for early bird promotion of RM7,000 cash discount and  RM1,000/ RM1,500 trade-in support will receive it accordingly.  

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Jaecoo, a rising star in the off-road vehicle market, has swiftly built a reputation for delivering exceptional off-road performance. In less than a year, the brand has gained a dedicated following in numerous countries and regions. Under the guiding principle of “From Classic, Beyond Classic,” Jaecoo has introduced its latest urban premium off-road SUV, the Jaecoo J7.

Malaysia stands out as the first Southeast Asian country to experience the launch of the Jaecoo J7. Prior to its debut, the J7 underwent extensive testing at Malaysia’s famed “M4TREC” off-road track, where it demonstrated its prowess in handling extreme off-road conditions.

Advanced Technology and Performance

  • All Road Drive Intelligent System (ARDIS):
    • The ARDIS enhances the off-road experience with a variety of driving modes tailored to different terrains.
    • The BOSCH Intelligent Power Brake (IPB) control system ensures quick response times and superior braking performance, crucial for off-road adventures.

  • Powerful Engine:
    • The J7 is powered by a 1.6TGDI engine, delivering 197PS and 290Nm of torque.
    • Paired with a 7 speed dual-clutch transmission, the J7 offers robust power and agility, comparable to luxury off-road vehicles.
  • Variants:
    • Available in both all-wheel-drive (AWD) and front-wheel-drive (FWD) models.
    • Both variants feature a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission.

Interior and Comfort

  • Luxurious Seating:
    • The interior draws inspiration from Land Rover, especially evident in the “all-sense” seats.
    • These seats are designed for maximum comfort, offering heating, cooling, and 10 levels of adjustability.

  • High-Tech Displays:
    • The J7 features dual screens: a 10.25-inch digital instrument panel and a 14.8-inch infotainment screen, providing a seamless blend of functionality and modern aesthetics.
    • Sony audio system.

Available colours:

  • Model Green
  • Khaki White
  • Carbon Crystal Black
  • Moonlight Silver

Pricing

All-wheel-drive: RM148,800

Front-wheel-drive: RM138,800

It comes with 7 years warranty or up to 150,000km mileage. Early birds get a 10 years engine warranty or up to 1,000,000km mileage. First 300 customers for the 2WD variant will get a 14.8 inch screen.

The Jaecoo J7 marks a significant entry in the urban premium off-road SUV segment, blending advanced technology, powerful performance, and luxurious comfort. With its debut in Malaysia and rigorous testing proving its capabilities, the J7 sets a new standard for off-road vehicles in its class, showcasing Jaecoo’s commitment to innovation and excellence in the off-road market.

The Fire and Rescue Department responded swiftly to an unusual and potentially dangerous situation, rescuing a woman who discovered a King Cobra in her car engine. The incident took place at the PDRM Apartments in Sabah.

Details of the Incident

Location and Initial Report: The department received a call indicating that a King Cobra, approximately one meter long, had made its way into the engine compartment of a Proton Saga. The report came from the PDRM Apartments, where the car was parked.

Discovery: The car owner was alerted to the presence of the snake by a neighbour. The neighbour had witnessed the snake slithering into the vehicle earlier in the day, prompting them to notify the car owner.

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Recent incidents involving heavy vehicle accidents have alarmed road users across the nation. Notably, these accidents often result in severe consequences, including loss of innocent lives, and frequently go viral on social media.

Statistics and Causes

Deputy Minister of Transport Datuk Hasbi Habibollah revealed that from January to March 2024, a total of 652 accidents involving various heavy vehicles were recorded. These vehicles include container trucks, small trucks, and express buses. The primary factors contributing to these accidents are:

  1. Driver Negligence: Drowsy driving and lack of attention.
  2. Speeding: Driving above the permitted speed limit.
  3. Overloading: Vehicles carrying more than the permissible load.
  4. Poor Maintenance: Inadequate upkeep of vehicles.

Public Concern and Calls for Action

The public has voiced concerns over these incidents, urging the government to enhance the monitoring and enforcement of transport vehicles. There is a widespread belief that stricter oversight could mitigate the frequency and severity of these accidents.

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The Economy Ministry has announced that the RON95 targeted subsidy mechanism will fully utilise data from the Central Database Hub (Padu), basing eligibility on net household disposable income.

Padu System Overview

Padu serves as the central data repository for Malaysian citizens and permanent residents, consolidating information for individuals and households. As of March 31, 2024, 10.55 million individuals have updated their personal information within the system. The Padu system is currently in its second phase, which involves data analysis to determine household details, reasonable expenditure, and net disposable income.

Data Analysis and Implementation

The second phase of Padu’s development focuses on analysing collected data to accurately identify household details and assess their financial status. This analysis will help determine who qualifies for the RON95 subsidy based on their net disposable income.

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