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Back in September Tesla Malaysia revealed the pricing of the Model 3 Facelift, codenamed Project Highland. The Model 3 has been officially launched and it is available in two variants: the Model 3 Rear-Wheel Drive and the Model 3 Long Range Dual Motor All-Wheel Drive.

After six years and outstanding sales of two million units globally, Tesla has redesigned the Model 3 with additional features, a longer range, and cosmetic enhancements. One of the most anxiously awaited electric vehicles of the year is likely to be the updated Model 3.

The updated Model 3 features a better interior and a more contoured appearance with new front and back sections. Internally, it is also referred to as Project Highland. According to Tesla, aerodynamic advancements would boost range while decreasing wind noise and drag.

The car now has a more angular and defined look thanks to slimmer lines, updated headlamp housing, new unique LED daytime running lights, and a more defined front end. The once-subtle dip along the edge of the hood, which used to taper beneath the headlamps, has become substantially more pronounced and longer, now reaching all the way to the fenders.

The Tesla name is now spelt out at the rear, replacing the emblem and it has conspicuous wraparound C-shaped rear lights. The general design of the automobile is unaffected. There has also been a brand-new multi-spoke wheel design. Two additional colour choices, Ultra Red and Stealth Grey, will be added to the palette.

The car is 1,765kg in weight, 2,089mm in width, 1,441mm in height, and 4,720mm in length. For contrast, the Model Y has dimensions of 4,750mm in length, 1,623mm in height, and 1,920mm in width.

With the optional 19-inch “Nova” wheels, the RWD Model 3 will cover around 513 km on the WLTP cycle, while the Long Range (LR) version is approved for about 629 km. The RWD variant and the LR all-wheel-drive clock in at 0-100 km/h speeds of 6.1 and 4.4 seconds, respectively.

The inside of the Model 3 has been updated to be cosier and more lounge-like. It has a wraparound shape and an “enveloping architecture,” mixing textile and aluminium-based materials. The whole cabin now features updated ambient lighting. Tesla claims that the improved acoustic glass and improved soundproofing materials have made the cabin quieter.

A bigger digital layout is contained there. The 15.4-inch central screen’s useable area has not changed, even if the bezels have become slimmer. Another new feature is an 8.0-inch back display with integrated temperature, ventilation, and infotainment settings.

The 17 speakers in the LR model—an increase of three over the previous setup, including two subwoofers and two amplifiers—will provide customers with a better audio experience. The RWD model will include nine speakers, one subwoofer, and one amplifier. Additionally, the microphone has been upgraded to increase call quality.

The Model 3 Rear-Wheel Drive is priced at RM189,000 and the Long Range Dual Motor All-Wheel Drive variant is priced at RM218,000. The car is available in a Pearl White Multi-Coat base colour, with additional colours available at an extra cost: Solid Black is RM5,000, Deep Blue Metallic is RM5,000, Stealth Grey is RM7,500 and Ultra Red will cost you RM11,000.

According to Tesla Malaysia, estimated deliveries are slated for late 2023, with a non-refundable order fee of RM1,000.

Hyundai, the exclusive North American automotive sponsor for the Disney100 Celebration, has unveiled the Ioniq 5 Disney100 Platinum Edition during the magical “Dancing with the Stars” Disney100 Night. The Ioniq 5 Disney100 Platinum Edition, initially showcased as a concept car at the 2023 New York Auto Show, takes centre stage in the opening scene and features during rehearsals driven by the show’s talented performers.

Limited to 1,000 units, the Ioniq 5 Disney100 Platinum Edition is set to hit the market in early 2024, blending automotive innovation with Disney magic.

Key Features of the Hyundai Ioniq 5 Disney100 Platinum Edition:

  • – Gravity Gold Matte exterior color
  • – Disney-inspired wheel designs
  • – Disney100 Platinum exterior badging
  • – Disney100 logo embossed on front seat headrests and center console
  • – Disney100 logo on the floormats
  • – Disney-inspired front and rear door trim strip
  • – Disney-themed intro on the interior screen upon car activation, featuring iconic Disney music and pixie dust

This release is part of Hyundai’s comprehensive 360-degree integrated marketing campaign, encompassing advertising, experiential events, new content, merchandising, and more. Hyundai’s exclusive North American automotive sponsorship of Disney100, celebrating a century of Disney’s timeless stories and characters, underscores their commitment to being part of remarkable experiences.

In addition to its unveiling during the opening scene, Hyundai’s sponsorship of “Dancing with the Stars” Disney100 Night includes various branding elements throughout the show, exclusive advertisements during the first hour, and advertisement spots on Disney+ during “Dancing with the Stars” from September 18 to October 31, reinforcing Hyundai’s association with the Disney100 Celebration.

A Scottish couple recently experienced an unexpected and costly ordeal when their Tesla electric car suffered extensive damage during a rainstorm. Johnny Bacigalupo and Rob Hussey, owners of a Tesla Model 3, were shocked to receive a repair bill totalling £17,374 (RM100,306) after their car malfunctioned following exposure to heavy rain.

According to a report by Edinburgh Live, the couple had driven their Model 3 to a restaurant during torrential rains in the Scottish capital. However, upon attempting to drive back home, the car failed to operate. After a five-hour wait for roadside assistance, the car was transported to Tesla Edinburgh for assessment and repair.

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Toyota is set to elevate the iconic Toyota Hilux to new heights with the introduction of the Hilux GR Sport II model, blending superior performance, exceptional ride comfort, and a bold design. Embodying its legacy as a multi-time Dakar Rally winner, this new flagship in the pickup range is expected to maintain the Hilux’s unmatched reputation for durability and reliability since its debut in 1968. The market debut for this highly anticipated version is anticipated in the latter half of 2024.

The Hilux GR Sport II, a double cab model, boasts a best-in-class towing capacity at 3,500kg and a payload capacity of 1,000kg. Sporting an assertive evolution of the existing model’s styling, it commands attention wherever it goes. The widened track, 140mm at the front and 155mm at the rear compared to the standard Hilux ensures a confident and steady ride, regardless of the road conditions or weather.

Improvements in handling characteristics, including reduced roll angle and more precise steering response, make this the best-driving Hilux to date both on and off-road. The proven and powerful 2.8-litre engine, integrated since 2020, continues to deliver with 201bhp and 500Nm, coupled with a six-speed automatic transmission.

In terms of exterior design, the Hilux GR Sport II adopts a striking and dynamic appearance, amplified by the integration of red coil springs, coloured dampers (black at the front, red at the rear), and 17-inch black alloy wheels with contrasting red brake callipers. The interior complements the bold design with a stylish black monochrome theme accented by red details, providing a sporty and comfortable atmosphere.

The cabin’s elegant black and red details in a monotone design compliment the robust exterior. Aluminium pedals, red seatbelts, and paddle shifters all allude to the GR Sport’s motorsport heritage.

The sports seats include silver stitching and perforations on black synthetic suede and leather upholstery. Their layout and quality offer support, comfort, and good body-grab performance when exposed to strong lateral pressures in challenging driving situations. The instrumentation and information display also include the GR emblem, and the door trims have a fresh design.

Moreover, technical enhancements such as improved approach angles, higher ground clearance, and superior aerodynamic performance further bolster the Hilux GR Sport II’s reputation as a ‘go-anywhere’ vehicle. The introduction of this new Hilux model is highly anticipated, and it is expected to resonate with Toyota enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike, promising a remarkable driving experience both on and off the road.

The review process will involve a comprehensive analysis of the current regulations and SOPs related to the transportation sector, with a specific focus on their applicability to electric vehicles. This analysis will identify areas where modifications and updates are needed to align with the distinctive features of EVs, especially heavy electric vehicles.

As reported by Bernama, Transport Minister Anthony Loke emphasised the necessity for modifications in the regulations, considering the evolving nature of the transportation landscape with the introduction of EVs. He pointed out that certain regulations designed for traditional diesel commercial vehicles may not be suitable for the unique requirements of EVs. The Ministry aims to streamline and adapt these regulations to cater to the growing prominence of EVs, particularly in the heavy vehicle category.

Furthermore, Loke highlighted the importance of reducing bureaucracy to encourage private-sector investments in the EV sector. By creating a conducive market environment for EVs and electric prime movers, the government seeks to enhance the country’s image in terms of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) considerations. Aligning with global trends, the initiative also strives to help multinational companies lower their carbon footprint by offering EV-friendly infrastructure and services.

The launch of the Swift Green Logistics division and the delivery of the first Malaysian electric prime mover to Unilever Malaysia at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC) marked a significant step in promoting the adoption of EVs within the country. Loke expressed confidence that this initiative will set a precedent for other companies to invest in EVs, predicting a growing preference for electric prime movers among customers in the coming years.

The directive from the Transport Ministry to review the SOPs and regulations related to electric vehicles reflects a proactive approach to adapting the regulatory framework to the changing dynamics of the transportation industry. The effort not only supports the growth of the EV sector but also aligns with environmental sustainability goals and enhances the country’s attractiveness for investment. The initiation of this review is an essential step towards fostering a more EV-friendly transportation landscape in Malaysia.

Nissan has revealed the Nissan Hyper Tourer, the latest addition to its lineup of advanced electric vehicle (EV) concepts, set to be showcased at the Japan Mobility Show starting on October 25. The concept embodies the spirit of Japanese hospitality (omotenashi) and incorporates cutting-edge technologies, including autonomous driving and Vehicle-to-Everything (V2X) functionality, enabling electricity supply to homes and businesses during travel.

The exterior design combines smooth body panels and sharp character lines, reflecting traditional Japanese aesthetics and presenting an imposing yet harmonious appearance. The white waistline serves as both a headlight and signature lamp, and the kumiko-patterned wheels and sleek body lines add a premium touch to the concept’s class.

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