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Michelin Plans on Using 100% Recycled and Renewable Materials Into Its Tyres by 2050

Tyres are essential components of modern transportation, providing the crucial connection between vehicles and the road. Their role in safety, fuel efficiency, and overall vehicle performance is undeniable. However, as the automotive industry shifts towards sustainability, tyres are also being reimagined to meet environmental goals.

Michelin’s journey exemplifies how an established global brand can leverage innovation, technology, and a commitment to sustainability to address the environmental challenges of the 21st century. Beyond simply manufacturing tyres, Michelin has emerged as a leader in rethinking the role of its products within the broader context of climate change, resource conservation, and ecological balance. The company’s All-Sustainable Strategy—centred on People, Profit, and Planet—reflects a profound understanding of its responsibilities as a global industry player and its potential to drive meaningful change.

At the heart of Michelin’s approach is a commitment to creating a cleaner, greener future for transportation. Through groundbreaking efforts, such as integrating renewable and recycled materials, including natural rubber and rice husk silica, Michelin has set an ambitious goal of producing tyres made entirely from recycled and renewable materials by 2050. Its current advancements, including tyres that already feature up to 71% bio-sourced materials in racing models, illustrate how sustainability can coexist with high performance.

Michelin’s innovative strategies extend into its manufacturing processes. The transition from gas-operated curing machines to highly energy-efficient electric ones demonstrates its ability to address carbon emissions at every step of production. Additionally, Michelin’s focus on improving the energy efficiency of its tyres during their on-road lifecycle tackles the most significant source of environmental impact—an area accounting for 84% of a tyre’s footprint.

By implementing Life Cycle Assessments (LCAs) to measure environmental impacts across a tyre’s entire lifecycle and adopting eco-design principles, Michelin is laying the groundwork for a future where all its products and services will be eco-designed by 2030. This science-driven approach ensures that every step, from raw material sourcing to end-of-life treatment, contributes to minimizing health risks, conserving biodiversity, and mitigating climate change.

Michelin’s ambitions go beyond tyres. Its holistic vision, including sustainable gastronomy initiatives and its role in supporting electric vehicle ecosystems, demonstrates a multifaceted commitment to sustainability across various industries. Such initiatives highlight Michelin’s capacity to influence not only its own sector but also adjacent industries, showcasing how sustainability can become an integral part of global business practices.

As the automotive industry continues to evolve and environmental concerns grow, Michelin stands as a beacon of what is possible when innovation meets purpose. The company’s strategy, anchored in rigorous environmental science and a dedication to transformative solutions, underscores its role as a leader in shaping the future of mobility and sustainability. Michelin is not just innovating tyres—it is innovating a better, more sustainable future for the planet.

GAC Aion ES: Fully Electric Sedan Launched For RM106,800

WTC Automotif (M) Sdn Bhd (WTCA), a subsidiary of Warisan TC Holdings Bhd, has unveiled the GAC Aion ES, which is now Malaysia’s most affordable fully electric sedan. Priced at just RM106,800, the Aion ES offers a highly competitive alternative to pricier models like the GWM Ora 07 and BYD Seal, positioning itself as an ideal entry-level option for Malaysians venturing into the electric vehicle (EV) market.

The GAC Aion ES is powered by a single front-wheel-drive motor delivering 134hp and 225Nm of torque, paired with a 55.2 kWh LFP Magazine battery. This configuration provides an impressive driving range of 442 km under the NEDC standard and 364 km under the WLTP testing standard. Charging is user-friendly, with an AC single-phase on-board charger rated at 6.6 kW requiring approximately 11 hours for a full charge.

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Leapmotor C10 Crowned by Euro NCAP With Five-Star Rating

The Leapmotor C10 has set a new standard in electric D-SUV safety, securing a prestigious five-star rating under the rigorous Euro NCAP safety program. As the first model from the Stellantis-Leapmotor joint venture, a 51:49 partnership aimed at producing high-tech, affordable vehicles, the C10 showcases the synergy between Stellantis’ global presence and Leapmotor’s innovative capabilities.

Achieving scores of 89% for adult protection, 85% for child protection, 77% for vulnerable road user safety, and 76% for driving assistance, the C10 exemplifies exceptional engineering. Its high-strength structural design and comprehensive airbag system, including front, side, curtain, and centre airbags, provide robust passive safety features.

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Jaecoo Omoda C9 SUV Coupe Launched in Malaysia From RM168K

Jaecoo Malaysia has unveiled the C9 Premium Off-road SUV Coupé, targeting SUV buyers with its affordability, advanced performance, and luxurious features. This launch marks Jaecoo’s ambitious entry into the Malaysian SUV market, appealing to consumers seeking enhanced quality and cutting-edge technology in their vehicles.

The C9 is competitively priced, with the all-wheel-drive (AWD) variant retailing at RM188,800, while the two-wheel-drive (2WD) variant is available for RM168,800. Both variants come with a comprehensive 7-year warranty, covering up to 150,000 km of mileage. Early adopters who book before 8 December 2024 will benefit from a 10-year extended warranty, covering up to 1,000,000 km for the engine and suspension system. These buyers will also gain access to the exclusive C9 Jaecoo Prime Protection Programme (J-PPP), reflecting Jaecoo’s confidence in the durability of its advanced suspension system.

Powered by a robust 2.0 TGDI inline four-cylinder petrol engine, the C9 delivers an impressive 257hp and 400Nm of torque. The 2WD variant offers three driving modes, tailored for city and light off-road usage, while the AWD variant expands versatility with seven driving modes, including settings for urban commutes, sporty drives, and challenging terrains.

The SUV’s dimensions—4,775 mm in length, 1,920 mm in width, and 1,671 mm in height—are complemented by a generous wheelbase of 2,800 mm. The 165 mm ground clearance and water-wading capability of 450 mm ensure off-road competence, while R20 multi-blade alloy rims and 245/50 Michelin tyres enhance stability and traction across diverse conditions.

Inside, the C9 embodies Jaecoo’s philosophy that “luxury is in the details.” Its cabin features leatherette linings, a modern 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, and electric power seat adjusters for added convenience. Buyers can choose from a selection of sophisticated colours, including Matte Grey, Khaki White, and Carbon Crystal Black, further emphasizing the vehicle’s elegance. Practicality is also a highlight, with a 660-litre rear boot capacity expandable to 1,783 litres, making the C9 ideal for city lifestyles, sports activities, and outdoor adventures.

The launch of the C9 coincides with findings from the 2024 Global Automotive Consumer Study, which identified quality, performance, and affordability as key priorities for Southeast Asian car buyers. Positioned as an attainable yet premium offering, the C9 meets these expectations with its advanced engineering and luxurious touches. Deliveries of the AWD variant are scheduled to begin in January 2025, with nationwide availability through Jaecoo’s expanding dealership network, including locations in East Malaysia.

Zeekr Officially Enters Malaysia with Luxury Electric Vehicles: Zeekr 009 and Zeekr X

Sentinel Automotive Sdn Bhd, the franchise holder for Zeekr, has introduced the Zeekr 009 luxury MPV and Zeekr X urban SUV to Malaysia, marking a significant milestone in the local premium EV market. These vehicles are now available for booking, with the first deliveries scheduled for mid-December 2024.

The Zeekr 009 MPV offers two seating configurations: a seven-seater priced at RM349,800 and a six-seater priced at RM359,800. Meanwhile, the Zeekr X urban SUV is available in two variants. The Premium model is priced at RM155,800, while the Flagship AWD model is available at RM172,800. Both vehicles come with a five-year/150,000 km vehicle warranty and an eight-year/160,000 km battery warranty. Additionally, owners will enjoy two years of complimentary connected services, which include 6GB of internet data for app navigation and over-the-air (OTA) updates.

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Proton X50 Sport Edition Debuts at KLIMS 2024

Proton has introduced the X50 Sport Edition at the Kuala Lumpur International Mobility Show (KLIMS) 2024, a special version of its popular compact SUV that boasts aesthetics and exclusive enhancements. Based on the X50 Premium variant, this new edition retains the impressive performance and safety features of its predecessor while adding a sportier appeal to attract style-conscious buyers.

The exterior of the X50 Sport Edition showcases a commanding presence with its Quartz Black body colour, accented by Red skirting on the front, rear, side panels, lower grille, and rear bumper. Red decals complement these accents, enhancing the vehicle’s dynamic appeal. The addition of 18-inch black alloy wheels completes the aggressive and sporty exterior design, ensuring the SUV stands out on the road.

Inside, the X50 Sport Edition continues to impress with its premium upgrades. A wireless charging pad offers added convenience for tech-savvy drivers, while limited edition carpets, scuff plates, and a boot tray improve both functionality and style. These interior enhancements provide a luxurious touch to an already well-appointed cabin.

Under the hood, the X50 Sport Edition is powered by the same reliable 1.5L TGDi engine paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT), delivering 177PS and 255Nm of torque. The advanced ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance System) suite is also unchanged, offering safety features such as Adaptive Cruise Control, Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB), and Lane Keep Assist.

No pricing details were given but the X50 Premium variant is priced at RM101,800, and the Sport Edition is expected to carry a modest premium due to its exclusive design and feature enhancements when it goes on sale later.

With its striking sporty aesthetics, practical interior upgrades, and proven performance capabilities, the Proton X50 Sport Edition is poised to capture the interest of customers seeking a stylish yet dynamic compact SUV.