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Limited Edition Ford Ranger StormTrak Launched For RM181,888 – Only 200 Units Available

Sime Darby Auto ConneXion (SDAC), the sole distributor for Ford in Malaysia, today unveiled the new Limited-Edition Ford Ranger StormTrak, strengthening its position in the pickup truck segment in Malaysia. In tandem with the new model launch, SDAC launched its online booking via shop.sdacford.com.my, allowing customers to book any of its Ranger and Everest models online with the Ranger StormTrak being exclusively available online, offering only 200 units.

A fusion of rugged capability, premium features and unparalleled technologies, the Ranger StormTrak is an upgrade to the well-loved Ranger WildTrak, catering to the multifaceted lifestyle of bold adventure seekers.

The Limited-Edition Ford Ranger StormTrak boasts a unique StormTrak Scheme for both its exterior and interior. Its features include 20-inch wheels with Asphalt Black matte paint and Race Red wheel inserts, a distinctive Storm Trak Scheme grille and bumper as well as new emblems and livery that signify its limited-edition status.

Inside, the attractive Storm Trak Scheme continues with a dashboard accented with Race Red stitching, seats featuring Storm Trak Logo, Race Red stitching and Miko suede inserts, elevating a premium and stylish cabin experience.

For enhanced functionality, the Limited-Edition Ford Ranger Storm Trak introduces several first-in-class features tailored for the adventurous spirit. These include Auxiliary Lamps to illuminate dark off-road trails, Zone Lighting to brighten the vehicle’s surroundings and cargo lights for added convenience when loading and unloading.

The innovation continues with the Ranger StormTrak featuring the innovative Flexible Rack System and Swing-in-Place Roof Rails, allowing for one-handed adjustment of the sports bar and supporting versatile loads up to 80 kilograms (dynamic) and 250 kilograms (static), ideal and practical for both adventure and work needs.

It also incorporates advanced technologies like the e-Shifter with a 10-speed automatic transmission, Auto Brake Hold and Active Park Assist 2.0, features found in the Ranger Raptor and Everest Titanium.

With strong emphasis on customer experience in both showroom and digital channels, SDAC provides customers with even more convenience through online booking via its website. With this upgraded platform, customers nationwide can browse and book for their desired Ranger or Everest. Customers who book a Ranger StormTrak will be entitled to the Ranger Storm Trak Windbreaker jacket, redeemable upon vehicle delivery, providing owners with a stylish jacket to go with the stylish Ranger Storm Trak.

Equipped with a 2.0L Bi-Turbo engine, the Limited-Edition Ford Ranger Storm Trak is priced from RM181,888.00 (on-the-road without insurance) in Peninsular Malaysia, RM188,288.00 (on-the-road without insurance) in Sabah, RM188,288.00 (on-the-road without insurance) in Sarawak. It is available in three exterior colors: Arctic White, Meteor Grey and Absolute Black.

Secure the Limited-Edition Ford Ranger StormTrak exclusively online at https://shop.sdacford.com.my/vehicle/ and enjoy a special booking gift – a complimentary Limited Edition Ford Ranger windbreaker upon vehicle delivery. Visit www.sdacford.com.my or follow.

Updated BMW M3 Competition and M3 Touring Unveiled – 523hp, 650Nm of Torque

BMW has unveiled the updated M3 Competition, featuring a slight power increase, refined visual enhancements, and a series of interior upgrades. Maintaining the familiar 3.0-litre twin-turbo six-cylinder engine, the new BMW M3 and BMW M3 Touring now benefit from a 20bhp boost due to optimised digital engine control. This brings the total output to 523bhp, while peak torque remains steady at 650Nm. BMW claims this power enhancement results in a more intense and sustained power delivery, enhancing the overall performance experience.

The power boost translates to a 0.4-second reduction in the M3 Competition saloon’s 0-100km/h acceleration time, now clocking in at 3.5 seconds. The M3 Touring follows closely, just one-tenth slower. The four-door M3 Competition can achieve 0-200km/h in 11.8 seconds, which is half a second faster than its predecessor. The top speed is electronically limited to 250km/h, but this can be increased to 290km/h (280km/h for the Touring) with the optional M Driver’s Package.

Visually, the M3 has been upgraded with new LED headlights featuring arrow-shaped daytime running lights, similar to those on the recently introduced M4 Competition. The adaptive LED headlights with matrix technology include blue inlays, adding a distinctive touch.

The M3 Competition now comes with forged alloy wheels in axle-specific sizes (19-inch front and 20-inch rear). The standard Jetblack design can be swapped for a set of M light-alloy wheels in silver, a new option for customers. Additionally, the M3 badge on the boot lid now features a silver-colored surround.

Inside, the M3 adopts BMW’s latest Operating System 8.5 for its infotainment system, aligning with updates seen in the standard 3 Series. The new interior includes a redesigned three-spoke M steering wheel with multifunction buttons and a red 12 o’clock marker. An Alcantara-trimmed version of this wheel is available for the first time.

For those seeking further customisation, BMW offers an M Carbon exterior package. This package includes new inlays for the front air intakes, a revised diffuser, a boot lid spoiler, and carbon fibre mirror caps. The M Race Track package, designed for performance enthusiasts, features ceramic brakes and carbon bucket seats, reducing the car’s weight by 25kg compared to the base model.

The updates to the BMW M3 Competition enhance its performance, style, and technology, ensuring it remains a standout choice in the high-performance sedan segment.

BMW 5 Series Touring Expands Variety with the First BMW i5 Touring

The new BMW 5 Series Touring has officially made its debut, with the first vehicles delivered to customers in Europe and Japan. This sixth generation of the 5 Series Touring introduces the all-electric BMW i5 Touring for the first time, alongside traditional internal combustion engine models, reflecting BMW’s ongoing commitment to electrification and innovation.

The all-electric BMW i5 Touring leads the lineup, featuring two models. The BMW i5 M60 xDrive Touring boasts an impressive output of up to 601 horsepower, while the BMW i5 eDrive40 Touring offers up to 340hp and a range of up to 560km as determined by the WLTP test cycle. These models mark a significant step in BMW’s efforts to expand its electric vehicle offerings.

For those who prefer diesel engines, the BMW 520d Touring and BMW 520d xDrive Touring are also available. These models are particularly popular in Europe and are equipped with a four-cylinder diesel engine combined with 48-volt mild hybrid technology, delivering a maximum output of 197hp. This technology enhances fuel efficiency and reduces emissions, aligning with modern environmental standards.

Looking ahead to summer 2024, BMW plans to introduce plug-in hybrid versions of the new 5 Series Touring. The upcoming BMW 530e Touring and BMW 530e xDrive Touring will feature a powertrain that combines a four-cylinder petrol engine with an electric motor integrated into an 8-speed Steptronic transmission, collectively generating 299hp. These models will offer substantial electric-only ranges, with the 530e Touring capable of traveling 83 to 95km on electric power alone, and the 530e xDrive Touring achieving 82 to 89km. The BMW 530e xDrive Sedan will also join the lineup, offering similar performance and efficiency.

Additionally, the range of the new BMW 5 Series will expand to include a six-cylinder diesel engine by summer 2024. The BMW 540d xDrive Sedan and BMW 540d xDrive Touring will feature a straight six-cylinder diesel engine paired with 48-volt mild hybrid technology. This combination produces 303hp and 670Nm of torque, enabling both models to accelerate from 0 to 100km/h in just 5.2 seconds. The intelligent BMW xDrive all-wheel drive system ensures optimal traction and driving stability across various road conditions.

BMW’s electrification strategy is evident in the new 5 Series Touring, particularly with the introduction of the all-electric i5 Touring and the upcoming plug-in hybrid variants. These models are designed to deliver both performance and efficiency, offering substantial electric-only ranges and impressive system outputs. The integration of mild hybrid technology in the diesel variants and the sophisticated powertrain in the hybrid models underscore BMW’s commitment to cutting-edge automotive technology.

Practicality remains a key feature of the new 5 Series Touring, including the plug-in hybrid models. The innovative packaging of the high-voltage battery under the vehicle’s floor allows for a flat luggage compartment without compromising cargo space. The Touring model offers 570 litres of luggage capacity with all seats in use, which can be expanded to 1,700 litres when needed, ensuring versatility for various needs.

The launch of the new BMW 5 Series Touring, including the all-electric i5 Touring and upcoming plug-in hybrids, signifies a major advancement in BMW’s journey towards electrification and carbon neutrality. These models blend traditional BMW performance with modern, sustainable technologies, making the 5 Series a top choice in the premium upper mid-range segment. The combination of innovative powertrains, practical design, and BMW’s signature driving dynamics ensures that the new 5 Series Touring will appeal to a wide range of customers seeking performance, efficiency, and luxury.

Subaru, Toyota and Mazda Are Developing New Engines For Carbon-Neutral Fuel Compatibility

Subaru Corporation, Toyota Motor Corporation, and Mazda Motor Corporation are taking significant steps towards carbon neutrality by developing new engines tailored for electrification and compatibility with carbon-neutral (CN) fuels. This collaboration underscores their commitment to innovative solutions that optimise integration with electric drive units, motors, and batteries, while also focusing on reducing the carbon footprint of internal combustion engines (ICEs).

Key Initiatives and Goals

Development of Compact, Efficient Engines:

– Integration with Electric Drive Units: The new engines are designed to work seamlessly with electric motors and batteries, enhancing overall vehicle performance and efficiency.

– Smaller, More Compact Design: These engines will revolutionise vehicle packaging by being more compact, allowing for design improvements such as lower hoods and better aerodynamics. This contributes to enhanced fuel efficiency and compliance with stricter emissions regulations.

Decarbonisation Efforts:

– Carbon-Neutral Fuels: The engines will be compatible with a range of carbon-neutral fuels, including e-fuels (synthetic fuels), biofuels, and liquid hydrogen. This shift away from fossil fuels aims to make ICEs more sustainable.

– Broadening Powertrain and Fuel Options: Under racing conditions, the companies are exploring various powertrain and fuel options to ensure robust and versatile engine performance that aligns with carbon neutrality goals.

Shared Vision and Collaboration

Subaru, Toyota, and Mazda are driven by a deep understanding of their customers’ diverse needs and lifestyles. This has led them to develop engines that not only embody their respective brands but also cater to unique customer preferences. Their joint efforts focus on:

– Acting with Passion and Purpose: The companies are united in their approach to tackling carbon emissions, focusing on carbon as the primary enemy rather than the engines themselves.

– Maintaining Supply Chains and Jobs: By advancing engine technology and expanding fuel options, they aim to sustain the supply chains and jobs that support the automotive industry.

Practical Implementation and Future Outlook

– Innovative Vehicle Design: The compact nature of the new engines allows for more flexible vehicle designs, enhancing both aesthetic and functional aspects of future vehicles.

– Compliance and Performance: Emphasis on meeting stringent emissions regulations while maintaining high efficiency and performance standards ensures that these engines will be both practical and eco-friendly.

Subaru, Toyota, and Mazda’s collaborative approach reflects their shared dedication to achieving carbon neutrality through multiple pathways. By working together with like-minded partners, they aim to create a sustainable future for Japan’s automotive industry, balancing innovation with environmental responsibility. This initiative highlights their commitment to pioneering technologies that support a broader adoption of carbon-neutral solutions while preserving the essence and performance of traditional ICE vehicles.

The New Porsche 911: First Street-Legal 911 With a Super-Lightweight Performance Hybrid System

Porsche has ushered in a new era for the iconic 911 sports car with the introduction of the new 911 Carrera GTS, marking the debut of a street-legal 911 equipped with a super-lightweight performance hybrid system.

The 2025 Carrera GTS model combines the classic rear-mounted flat-six engine of the 911 with an electric motor and an electric turbocharger, resulting in an impressive output of 532hp and 608Nm of torque. Scheduled for release before the end of the year, this hybrid setup represents a significant upgrade from previous iterations.

Under the hood, the Carrera GTS features a new 3.6-litre flat-six engine, offering 478hp and 569Nm of torque—an increase of five hp compared to its predecessor. The hybrid system enables Porsche to replace the twin-turbo setup with a single electric turbocharger, equipped with a 14.7hp motor for rapid response and minimal turbo lag. Additionally, a 32.6hp traction motor and a small 1.9-kWh battery contribute to enhanced performance across the rev range while maintaining optimal air-fuel ratio.

Despite a weight increase of 46kg, attributed partly to added standard equipment such as rear-wheel steering, the Carrera GTS delivers remarkable acceleration, clocking a sub-3-second 0-100km/h time of 2.9 seconds—a first for a Carrera model. New active aerodynamic flaps at the front, along with styling tweaks to the fascias and updated wheel options, further enhance performance and aesthetics.

Meanwhile, the base Carrera model receives updates including turbos and intercoolers from previous GTS and Turbo models, resulting in a nine-hp increase in power.

Inside, the Carrera GTS boasts an all-new, all-digital gauge cluster, replacing the analog tachometer, while still prioritising essential driving information. For the first time, the 911 has a fully digital instrument cluster. The 12.6-inch curved display fits seamlessly into the new control and display concept and can be extensively customised. It offers up to seven views, including an exclusive Classic display inspired by the traditional five-tube Porsche dial design with a central tachometer. The Porsche Communication Management (PCM) system is still operated via the high-resolution central display with a 10.9-inch screen.

Both the base Carrera and Carrera GTS models receive facelift updates for 2025, with pricing increases across the board. The base Carrera starts at $122,095 (RM573,571), while the Carrera GTS is priced at $166,895 (RM784,030), reflecting the enhanced performance and advanced technology offered by these revamped models.

The Next Chapter Of Electrified Mobility: Nissan E-Power

Nissan, renowned for its innovation in electric vehicles (EVs), is poised to advance electrified mobility with its pioneering e-POWER technology. Edaran Tan Chong Motor Sdn Bhd, the official distributor of Nissan vehicles in Malaysia, unveiled the exciting potential of e-POWER to visitors and car buyers at the Malaysia Autoshow 2024.

The e-POWER drive system represents a breakthrough unique to Nissan, utilising a petrol engine and a Lithium-ion battery to power an electric motor that exclusively propels the wheels. Functioning akin to an electric car, e-POWER delivers instantaneous torque and boasts lower tailpipe emissions and running costs compared to traditional combustion engines—all without requiring external charging. Additionally, e-POWER incorporates regenerative braking to help maintain battery levels.

Nissan e-POWER stands out as an innovative and award-winning electric-drive powertrain, integrating an internal combustion engine with an electric motor. Notably, the wheels are solely propelled by the high-output motor, akin to an EV, offering immediate throttle response and impressive torque delivery. Recognised as the “Technology of the Year” by the Automotive Researchers & Journalists’ Conference of Japan (RJC) in 2021, the e-POWER system underscores Nissan’s commitment to technological advancement.

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Latest News

Limited Edition Ford Ranger StormTrak Launched For RM181,888 – Only 200 Units Available

Updated BMW M3 Competition and M3 Touring Unveiled – 523hp, 650Nm of Torque

BMW 5 Series Touring Expands Variety with the First BMW i5 Touring

Subaru, Toyota and Mazda Are Developing New Engines For Carbon-Neutral Fuel Compatibility

The New Porsche 911: First Street-Legal 911 With a Super-Lightweight Performance Hybrid System

The Next Chapter Of Electrified Mobility: Nissan E-Power

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