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Cycle & Carriage Partners with Stellantis Malaysia to Expand Automotive Market Footprint

Cycle & Carriage, a distinguished name in Malaysia’s automotive industry with a legacy of 125 years, has announced a strategic partnership with Stellantis Malaysia. This collaboration marks a significant milestone in Cycle & Carriage’s history, as it prepares to retail vehicles from various brands under the Stellantis umbrella while supporting Stellantis Malaysia’s multi-brand and multi-segment initiatives.

The partnership with Stellantis Malaysia represents a pivotal step for Cycle & Carriage, aligning seamlessly with its objectives for growth and market expansion within the Malaysian automotive sector. Leveraging its extensive network and deep industry experience, Cycle & Carriage aims to enhance the customer experience by providing exceptional vehicle ownership journeys.

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Proton Announces Pre-Launch Bookings for Upgraded 2025 X70

Proton has announced that it is now accepting pre-launch bookings for the highly anticipated 2025 Proton X70, the latest iteration of the company’s flagship SUV. Building on the success of its predecessor, the new model promises a host of enhancements designed to elevate both its aesthetic appeal and driving performance.

The 2025 Proton X70 comes with a significantly refreshed exterior, delivering a more modern and dynamic look. Under the hood, the SUV features notable performance upgrades, ensuring an improved driving experience. One of the standout updates is the inclusion of the Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) Level 2, a significant advancement from the previous generation, offering enhanced safety and convenience features.

Inside, the Proton X70 boasts a state-of-the-art 12.3-inch infotainment head unit equipped with both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity. The Proton Link app now includes extended capabilities, such as remote engine start, allowing drivers to cool down their vehicles before getting in. The interior cabin is upgraded with luxurious Nappa leather seats in a sophisticated stone grey colour and multicolour rhythmic ambient lighting, providing a premium driving environment.

To celebrate the launch, Proton is offering an attractive early bird package for customers who book the 2025 Proton X70. Prospective buyers are encouraged to contact Proton sales advisors or visit the nearest Proton 3S and 4S showrooms to secure their bookings with a deposit of RM500. The booking window remains open until further notice.

The 2025 Proton X70 represents a significant step forward for Proton, reinforcing its commitment to delivering innovative and high-quality vehicles. With its enhanced features and competitive pricing, the new X70 is set to continue Proton’s legacy of excellence in the SUV market. The official launch event will reveal additional details, promising to further excite both current and prospective customers.

For more information and to make a booking, visit your nearest Proton showroom or contact a Proton sales advisor today.

GWM Malaysia Expected To Launch First CKD Model In Q3 Of 2024

Great Wall Motor’s (GWM) strategic expansion in Malaysia reflects its broader global vision and commitment to the ASEAN market. The company’s impressive global sales growth and its approach to localisation are central to its success. Here’s a summary of the key points:

GWM’s Global Strategy and Growth

Four Globalisation Pillars: GWM focuses on four strategic pillars:
- Locally Built
- Locally Operated
- Locally Cultivated
- Supply Chain Integration

Sales Performance: The company reported a 62.59% year-on-year increase in global sales, with 201,500 units sold internationally in the first half of 2024.

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The Audi A6 e-tron is Finally Here in Both Sportback and Avant Versions

The Audi A6 e-tron concept debuted at the Auto Shanghai 2021 trade fair and now, the Audi A6 e-tron is making a significant debut as the first all-electric Audi available in both Sportback and Avant versions, showcasing the new PPE platform. The exterior design of the A6 e-tron features a sleek, dynamic roofline and a wide, expressive front with slim daytime running lights and a black mask that encloses functional elements. Aerodynamically, the A6 e-tron excels with a drag coefficient of 0.21 for the Sportback and 0.24 for the Avant, thanks to air curtains, a slim greenhouse, and optimised underbody components.

Inside, the A6 e-tron is equipped with innovative features such as a panoramic glass roof with switchable transparency, second-generation virtual exterior mirrors, and a highly advanced MMI panoramic display. It also includes an optional augmented reality head-up display (AR HuD). The car’s infotainment system features an 11.9-inch Audi virtual cockpit, a 14.5-inch MMI touch display, and a 10.9-inch front passenger display. The integration of Android Automotive OS, over-the-air updates, and third-party apps enhances its technological appeal.

In terms of performance, the A6 e-tron offers a range of up to 756km for the Sportback and up to 720km for the Avant. It features 800-volt technology for rapid charging with a maximum capacity of 270kW. The S6 e-tron variant delivers even higher performance, with a top speed of 240km/h and a 0-100km/h acceleration time of 3.9 seconds with a range of up to 675km. The advanced recuperation system and two-stage regenerative braking improve both efficiency and range, while the adaptive air suspension balances comfort and handling.

The A6 e-tron comes with a power output of 362hp and rear-wheel drive, whereas the S6 e-tron offers 496hp and quattro all-wheel drive. Both variants will be available in Sportback and Avant versions at launch, with further models expected to follow depending on the market.

For driver assistance and safety, the A6 e-tron includes comprehensive systems such as adaptive driving assistant plus, park assist plus, traffic sign recognition, and various other driver aids to enhance comfort and safety.

Pricing for the A6 e-tron starts at €75,600 (RM375,960) for the Sportback and €77,250 (RM382,524) for the Avant. The performance-oriented S6 e-tron34 is priced at €99,500 for the Sportback and €101,150 for the Avant. Orders for these models will open in September 2024.

The Audi A6 e-tron aims to combine high performance with advanced technology, aerodynamics, and a luxurious interior, making it a notable entry in the electric vehicle market.

Sportback

Avant

S6 Sportback e-tron

Pagani’s Latest Masterpiece: The Utopia Roadster

Two years ago, Pagani Automobili unveiled the Utopia, a car that embodies the relentless pursuit of perfection. Now, the company is expanding its vision with the introduction of the Utopia Roadster, developed alongside the Coupé model from the start. This dual development approach allows enthusiasts to choose between the closed and open versions, each reflecting Pagani’s commitment to excellence.

A Dual Approach to Perfection

Traditionally, the Roadster versions of Pagani’s models, such as the Zonda and Huayra, were developed after their Coupé counterparts. The Utopia, however, was designed with both variants in mind from the outset. This approach allows Pagani to offer both closed and open cabin versions simultaneously, catering to the diverse preferences of automotive enthusiasts.

Innovative Design and Versatility

The Utopia Roadster features a design that harmonizes with its Coupé sibling. Both versions share elegant butterfly doors and a sophisticated hard-top mechanism. The hard-top can be stored on a stand, becoming a design piece itself, while a soft-top can be stowed in place of the vanity case. This versatility allows the car to transform into three different configurations, catering to different driving experiences and weather conditions.

Advanced Materials and Engineering

Pagani’s commitment to technological innovation is evident in the Utopia Roadster. Weighing just 1,280 kg (2,822 lbs) despite its large size and V12 engine, the Roadster features a redesigned monocoque chassis for optimal rigidity without heavy reinforcements. The car’s aerodynamic design, perfected in the wind tunnel, avoids protruding appendages while ensuring high downforce and efficiency.

Performance and Power

The Utopia Roadster maintains the same performance as the Coupé, thanks to the advanced Pagani V12 engine developed in collaboration with Mercedes-AMG. Producing 864hp and 1,100 Nm of torque, this engine delivers both smooth low-rev operation and explosive acceleration. The seven-speed manual gearbox, developed with Xtrac, and the lightweight triple-disc clutch ensure precise and responsive performance.

Sophisticated Interior and Design

Inside, the Utopia Roadster features floor mats with a texture reminiscent of outboard boats and a redesigned key reflecting the car’s open design. The cabin’s nearly endless color and material choices are highlighted by the unique visibility of the interior. Pagani’s attention to detail extends to bespoke luggage, including leather-covered carbon suitcases and garment bags, all crafted with meticulous care.

Technological Integration

Pagani has incorporated state-of-the-art technology in the Utopia Roadster, including Pirelli Cyber Tyres equipped with sensors to interact with the vehicle’s stability control systems. The Utopia is fitted with exclusive tires developed specifically for its performance needs, ensuring optimal safety and handling.

A Philosophy of Driving Pleasure

The Utopia Roadster delivers a unique driving experience, blending traditional analog controls with cutting-edge technology. The manual gearbox, a hallmark of Pagani’s design, is paired with an automated option for those who prefer quicker shifts. The steering wheel, crafted from a single block of metal, exemplifies the brand’s dedication to both aesthetic and functional excellence.

Exclusive Production and Pricing

Pagani will produce only 130 units of the Utopia Roadster, each priced at 3.1 million euros, excluding local taxes. This exclusivity underscores Pagani’s commitment to creating a masterpiece that combines engineering prowess with unparalleled driving pleasure.