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Proton Achieves Historic Milestone with Production of Five Millionth Vehicle

Proton has marked a significant milestone in its 41-year history by producing its five-millionth vehicle. The landmark car, a Proton X90 Flagship, was unveiled during a special visit to the company’s Centre of Excellence (COE) complex by Malaysian Minister of Investment, Trade, and Industry, Y.B. Senator Tengku Datuk Seri Utama Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz, and Chinese Minister of Industry and Information Technology, Jin Zhuanglong.

Celebrating Diplomatic Ties

The visit coincided with the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Malaysia, celebrated on May 31, 2024. Other distinguished guests included Y.B. Ng Sze Han, Selangor state Executive Committee member for Investment, Trade, and Mobility, Eric Li Shufu, Chairman of Zhejiang Geely Holding Group, Tan Sri Syed Faisal Albar, Group Managing Director of DRB-HICOM, Dr Wei Mei, CEO of Geely International Holdings (Malaysia), Dr Li Chunrong, CEO of Proton, and Roslan Abdullah, Deputy CEO of Proton.

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Mercedes-Benz Malaysia Introduces the New GLA 250 4MATIC for RM295,888

Mercedes-Benz Malaysia has introduced the new GLA 250 4MATIC, an SUV designed for both sporty agility and versatile lifestyle needs. This model is now available as a locally-assembled vehicle and serves as the entry point into the Mercedes-Benz SUV lineup.

Key Features and Specifications:

Performance:

– Engine: 2-litre four-cylinder with eight-speed DCT dual-clutch transmission.

– Power: 224hp and 350Nm of torque.

– Acceleration: 0-100km/h in 6.8 seconds.

– Drive: 4MATIC all-wheel drive with torque-on-demand.

– Efficiency: Electrified with a 48-volt power supply and belt-driven starter-generator, providing an extra 10kW boost.

Exterior:

– Design: AMG Line with diamond radiator grille, redesigned rear bumper with diffuser, silver underguard on the front apron.

– Lighting: LED High Performance headlamps with Adaptive Highbeam Assist, LED rear lights.

– Wheels: 19-inch AMG 5-twin-spoke light-alloy wheels.

– Colour: Available in new Spectral Blue metallic paint.

Interior:

– Displays: Dual 10.25-inch screens for the instrument cluster and multimedia, running the latest MBUX system.

– Connectivity: Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, USB Package Plus with five illuminated USB-C ports.

– Comfort: Sports seats with Artico leather and MicroCut microfibre, Nappa leather steering wheel, Thermatic automatic climate control with 2 zones, ambient lighting with 64 colours.

– Safety: Blind Spot Assist, Exit Warning Assist, Parking Package with reverse camera, Active Parking Assist, Sports Brake System, Active Brake Assist, Keyless-Go Comfort package, Easy-Pack tailgate, Hands-Free Access, Guard 360° Vehicle protection, and TireFit.

Price:

– Retail Price: RM295,888 (including 10% Sales Tax, excluding insurance).

The GLA 250 4MATIC is built for improved driving stability, efficiency, and comfort, making it a versatile and stylish addition to the Mercedes-Benz lineup.

Nissan Unveils the 2024 Z Heritage Edition to Celebrate 55 Years of Sports Car Legacy

In a nod to its storied history, Nissan introduces the 2024 Z Heritage Edition, a special limited-edition model that pays homage to the S30-generation Datsun 240Z, unveiled 55 years ago in 1969. This exclusive edition blends modern performance with classic design elements, celebrating over half a century of sports car excellence.

Classic Design with Modern Flair

The 2024 Nissan Z Heritage Edition is based on the Z Performance grade and is available with either a 6-speed manual or a 9-speed automatic transmission. Its standout feature is the exclusive New Sight Orange paint, reminiscent of the iconic orange body of the original 240Z. This striking colour scheme is complemented by a black hood decal, bodyside decals, and Heritage Edition decals surrounding the Z emblems aft of the quarter windows.

Further enhancing its retro-inspired aesthetic, the Heritage Edition boasts a new front fascia with rectangular grille openings, 19-inch alloy wheels, and fender extensions at each corner. These design elements collectively echo the look of the historic 240Z, blending nostalgia with contemporary styling.

Performance and Features

Under the hood, the Z Heritage Edition is powered by a formidable twin-turbo 3.0-litre V6 engine, delivering an impressive 400hp. This powertrain is paired with a mechanical limited-slip differential, ensuring optimal traction and handling. The model also features Nissan Performance brakes with red callipers, adding both aesthetic and functional value.

Built on the Z Performance grade, the Heritage Edition includes all the desirable features of the base model, making it a well-rounded sports car suitable for both road and track enthusiasts. Its blend of power, precision, and style makes it a worthy tribute to the legacy of the Z series.

Pricing and Availability

The 2024 Nissan Z Heritage Edition is set to hit the market this June, with a starting Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $59,135 (RM278,747). Given its limited production and exclusive design elements, this model is expected to be a sought-after addition to the Nissan Z lineup.

With the 2024 Z Heritage Edition, Nissan continues its tradition of celebrating its rich heritage while pushing the boundaries of modern automotive performance and design. This special edition model not only honors the past but also sets a high standard for the future of the Z series.

Suzuki Motor to Develop Self-Driving Minicars for Rural Japan

Suzuki Motor Corporation is collaborating with Nagoya-based startup Tier IV to develop autonomous driving technology specifically for minicars, aiming to address the unique transportation needs of Japan’s less-populated regions. This initiative is a strategic move to meet the increasing demand for compact, self-driving vehicles capable of navigating narrow and often challenging rural roads.

Investment and Partnership

Suzuki has made a strategic investment in Tier IV, contributing to a substantial 8 billion yen capital increase. This partnership will see Tier IV develop a prototype of an autonomous minicar using existing Suzuki models. The goal is to integrate this technology into Suzuki’s next-generation vehicles, leveraging Tier IV’s expertise in autonomous systems.

Historical Collaboration

The two companies have an established relationship, having jointly tested a Suzuki car equipped with Tier IV’s autonomous driving system in 2022. This successful collaboration set the stage for deeper integration of Tier IV’s technology into Suzuki’s vehicle lineup.

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Chery Malaysia Launches Chery Corporate Malaysia Factory in Shah Alam – First ASEAN CKD Jaecoo J7

Chery Auto Malaysia Sdn Bhd has marked a significant milestone along its growth journey in Malaysia with the launch of the Chery Corporate Malaysia Factory in Shah Alam. The facility will be the first in the ASEAN region to produce the highly anticipated premium off-road SUV, the Jaecoo J7.

The factory launch was commemorated with the first ever Jaecoo J7 All-Wheel Drive (AWD) premium off-road SUV rolling off its production line, witnessed by Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry Malaysia, Yang Berhormat Senator Tengku Datuk Seri Utama Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz, and China’s Minister of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT), Dr Jin Zhuanglong.

A tour of the facility showcased the cutting-edge technology and stringent quality control processes applied to every Jaecoo vehicle assembled. The Jaecoo J7 AWD and Two-Wheel Drive (2WD) variants will be the inaugural models assembled at the facility in Shah Alam. The set-up of the factory has resulted in the creation of 500 new jobs with the potential to grow further in line with market demands.

Strategically located in the Shah Alam industrial zone, the Chery Corporate Malaysia Factory is in close proximity to local manufacturers who are critical to its supply chain. The facility is also geographically located close to Malaysia’s busiest port and the second largest in Southeast Asia, which primes the automaker’s readiness to export to the ASEAN region in the future.

To date, Chery, as a whole, is responsible for the creation of over 1,000 jobs in Malaysia through its local operations. The brand also has a network of 100 sales and service centres across the nation.

In line with its brand ecology, “New Energy, New Eco, New Era,” Jaecoo teased the market with a taste of its future EV portfolio recently, previewing the Tiggo 8 Pro Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV), Jaecoo J7 Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) and the Jaecoo J6 full-fledged Electric Vehicle (EV) at the Malaysia Autoshow 2024 in May.

The new production facility launch will be closely followed by the official launch of Jaecoo’s premium off-road SUV, the J7, in Malaysia, which will be celebrated over three days, from 19 to 21 July. The Jaecoo J7 is powered by a 1.6 TGDI engine that produces 194hp and 290Nm of torque. Power is sent to the wheels through a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission.

Mini Countryman D: The Versatile Addition to the Mini Family

The new Mini Countryman D is the versatile all-rounder of the Mini lineup, seamlessly blending agility for city driving with comfort for countryside travels. This model, featuring a two-litre four-cylinder diesel engine, expands the drive options available to Mini enthusiasts, complementing the existing electric and petrol variants.

Advanced Diesel Efficiency and Performance

The Mini Countryman D boasts an efficient diesel engine coupled with 48-volt mild hybrid technology, which recovers braking energy and provides an additional 18hp of electric drive power. This hybrid integration allows for more responsive performance at low engine speeds and enhances overall fuel efficiency.

Fuel Consumption: 4.9 — 4.6 l/100 km
CO2 Emissions: 127 — 120 g/km (WLTP)
Output: 163hp
Acceleration: 0 to 100km/h in 8.5 seconds

The Countryman D offers a quiet, smooth driving experience with the hallmark Mini go-kart feeling, thanks to its direct steering and the combination of single-joint McPherson strut front axle and multi-link rear axle.

Distinctive and Customisable Design

The Mini Countryman D’s design is Minimalist yet expressive, with four trim variants—Essential, Classic, Favoured, and John Cooper Works—allowing for personalised styling.

Exterior Features:
- Favoured Trim with Midnight Black metallic paint
- Octagonal front grille in vibrant silver
- Mini LED headlamps
- Short overhangs and an elegantly stretched roof
- C-pillar in matching colour with a trim badge
- Standard piano black roof rails
- Light alloy wheels available in 17 to 21 inches

Spacious and Innovative Interior

Increased dimensions enhance interior comfort, providing more space for both driver and passengers. The rear seat can be adjusted for additional legroom or cargo space, and the backrest can be positioned in six different ways.

Interior Features:
- Additional three centimetres of width in shoulder and elbow area
- Adjustable rear seats and backrest
- Trunk volume expandable from 450 to 1460 litres
- New textile surfaces on dashboard and interior door panels
- Panoramic glass roof for added brightness and visibility
- Central 10″ diameter OLED display for infotainment and assistance systems
- Mini toggle switch strip for controlling driving functions

Enhanced Driving Experience

The Mini Countryman D includes several innovative technologies to enhance the driving experience:

Mini Experience Modes: Combine visual design, ambient lighting, and sound design for an immersive experience.
Driving Assistant Plus: Offers partially automated Level 2 driving on motorways, allowing hands-off steering up to 60 km/h, provided the driver remains attentive and ready to intervene.

The Mini Countryman D epitomises versatility and innovation, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a car that excels in both urban and rural environments. With its efficient diesel engine, customisable design, spacious interior, and advanced technologies, the Countryman D continues Mini’s tradition of delivering unique and high-performing cars.