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Buses from Thailand now Permitted to Enter All States in Malaysia

The Ministry of Transport (MOT) has announced that buses from Thailand are now permitted to enter all states in Malaysia, subject to approval from the Land Public Transport Agency (APAD). Transport Minister Anthony Loke clarified that this permission is not limited to states near the border.

According to Berita Harian, Loke stated that this decision was made recently, allowing buses from Thailand to enter Malaysia. They simply need to apply to APAD, and upon approval, a temporary permit will be issued.

However, buses from Thailand must provide specific information, including details of tour packages, the number of passengers, and accommodation locations.

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Comparison Analysis Reveals Costs of LRT and ART Infrastructure in Johor

The estimated overall cost of providing Light Rail Transit (LRT) infrastructure in Johor is projected to be RM16.7 billion, whereas the provision of Autonomous Rapid Transit (ART) infrastructure is estimated to cost RM7 billion. Mohamad Fazli Mohamad Salleh, the state executive councillor for Transport, Infrastructure, and Communications, revealed this valuation after a detailed comparison analysis between the LRT and ART systems, following presentations from two consortia proposing these public transport systems, as reported by Bernama.

Regarding the LRT system, Mohamad Fazli mentioned that it necessitates a new design for the elevated section and requires approval of the railway scheme. Additionally, infrastructure for depots and LRT stations would involve land acquisition for the depot in Desa Jaya and five acres of land for track switching/shunting.

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Jaecoo J7 Available to the Public for Test Drives

To offer enthusiasts a glimpse into a premium urban lifestyle experience, Jaecoo Malaysia has partnered with BÖN Estates, a boutique property developer based in Malaysia.

Since the commencement of the J7 public test drives on May 9, the collaboration has seen a significant turnout from both potential SUV enthusiasts and homeowners. Over the span of just four days, nearly 2,000 visitors have flocked to the BÖN Estates Gallery in Bangsar, with more than 470 test drives conducted during the same period.

Both the J7 all-wheel drive (AWD) and two-wheel drive (2WD) variants were available for public test drives at the BÖN Estates Gallery. Set against the backdrop of BÖN Estates’ signature living spaces, which seamlessly blend natural elements with modern technology, the sophisticated design of the J7 perfectly complemented the premium ambience. Striking features such as the J7’s hexagonal vertical waterfall grille, 19-inch “Aurora-inspired” alloy wheels, and a split lighting system that creates a near-natural daylight effect elicited awe and curiosity among visitors.

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Malaysia Accelerates EV Adoption with 268 New Charging Points

The Ministry of Investment, Trade, and Industry (MITI) has announced that an additional 268 electric vehicle (EV) charging stations have commenced operations until March 2024. This development brings the total number of Electric Vehicle Charging Points (EVCB) to 2,288 units.

As reported by Bernama, MITI Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz highlighted that the ministry remains committed to its goal of adding 10,000 new charging stations. Additionally, the target for Direct Current Fast Charging (DC) stations has been increased to 1,500 from the previous 1,000.

Furthermore, Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul mentioned the rapid growth of the EV market in Malaysia, with nearly 11,000 battery electric vehicles (BEV) and hybrids sold until March 2024.

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PHEV for AMG Doesn’t Do It, Mercedes Goes to V8

The upcoming Mercedes-AMG CLE 63 is set to receive a twin-turbocharged 4.0-litre V8 petrol engine, boasting an output of up to 585bhp, according to senior officials at the division’s Mercedes-Benz parent company.

This decision marks a departure from the initial plan to equip the new coupe and cabriolet with a 670bhp plug-in hybrid drivetrain, which mirrors the latest C63 and GLC 63 models. The shift in strategy is attributed to sluggish sales of the saloon, estate, and SUV variants, which feature the E-Performance PHEV drivetrain combining a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine with a rear-axle mounted electric motor.

Despite its impressive performance figures, the E-Performance PHEV drivetrain hasn’t resonated with traditional AMG buyers, resulting in lower sales compared to their V8 predecessors across global markets. As a result, the most potent versions of the new CLE will be powered by the latest version of AMG’s M177 V8 engine, incorporating mild-hybrid technology.

These V8-powered models will occupy a position above the CLE 53 Coupe and Cabriolet, which utilise a turbocharged 3.0-litre six-cylinder petrol engine producing 442bhp. Mercedes-AMG aims to position the CLE as a direct competitor to the BMW M4, which offers up to 542bhp from a twin-turbo 3.0-litre straight-six engine in its most powerful configuration.

The decision to opt for V8 power for the CLE is not only influenced by the lukewarm reception to the PHEV C63 and GLC 63 models but also stems from feedback received from the global dealer network. Dealers expressed concerns that introducing a four-cylinder CLE 63 variant above the six-cylinder CLE 53 could lead to customer confusion.

Bentley’s Special Edition 8 Models Bid Farewell to Current-Generation Petrol V8 Engine

Bentley is bidding farewell to its current-generation 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 engine with a special send-off in North America. The Continental GT, Continental GTC, and Flying Spur ‘Edition 8’ models are exclusively available in this region and are adorned with many sought-after Mulliner Personal Commissioning options.

These Edition 8 models boast a Blackline specification exterior, striking 22” wheels, Comfort Specification seats, Bentley’s Rotating Display, contrast stitching, and self-levelling wheel badges. Customers can choose from over 60 colours in Mulliner’s Extended Paint range, and the unique Palm Fluting option adds a distinctive touch to the seating.

Thoughtful details such as LED welcome lamps and a polished, engineered ‘jewel’ filler cap further enhance the exclusivity of these models. Edition 8 badging is prominent on the fenders of the Continental GT and Continental GTC, while it is located on the D Pillar of the Flying Spur. Inside, the Edition 8 motif is embroidered on the seat backs and engraved on the treadplates.

North American customers will have the opportunity to own one of the last, most opulent 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 models with the Edition 8 badge, as production shifts towards hybrid variants as part of Bentley’s Beyond100 strategy. While the current engine will continue in the Bentayga family, the Continental and Flying Spur ranges will transition to hybrid models by 2024.

The V8 engine has been a cornerstone of Bentley’s heritage for 75 years, evolving from the first L-Series V8 in 1959 to today’s current-generation powerhouse. Since its introduction in 2012, over 53,000 V8-powered Continental GT, GTC, and Flying Spur examples have been handcrafted at Bentley’s Dream Factory in Crewe, England.