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Proton Registers 13.6% Sales Growth in May Amid Positive Market Sentiment

Proton has reported a significant 13.6% increase in sales for May, with 12,522 units (domestic and export) sold. This surge has cemented the company’s second position in the national automotive sales ranking, achieving a forecast market share of 19%. The company’s sales for the first five months of the year closed at 62,697 units.

The growth in Proton’s sales aligns with the overall trend in the Total Industry Volume (TIV), which is estimated to have grown by 20.7% to approximately 70,000 units in May. The year-to-date (YTD) TIV figure is estimated at 330,236 units, marking an 8.8% increase over 2023.

Export Sales Surge

Proton’s efforts to expand into international markets, including Trinidad and Tobago, Bangladesh, and Iraq, have been fruitful, with export sales reaching 509 units in May—the highest shipment recorded for 2024 so far. Since February, the best-selling export model has been the Proton Saga, leading with 360 units exported in May. Cumulative export sales have reached 1,344 units since January.

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CAAM Urges Aspiring Pilots to Research Flying Schools Amid Sector Recovery

The Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia (CAAM) has issued a strong advisory to aspiring pilots, emphasising the importance of thorough research into flying schools before enrolling. This comes as the aviation sector shows signs of recovery and an increasing number of individuals seek to become pilots.

CAAM, which licenses flying schools and issues clearance letters to trainees after vetting their qualifications, has noted that many aspiring pilots often have unclear expectations or misconceptions regarding the roles of the schools and the regulatory authority. This confusion can lead to frustration and hinder students’ progress toward their aviation careers.

Norazman Mahmud, head of CAAM, advised prospective pilots to visit flying schools to tour the facilities, meet instructors, and understand the training environment. He highlighted the necessity of verifying the schools’ accreditation status, reviewing the training programs offered, and considering the qualifications of instructors and the schools’ safety records.

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BMW 3 Series and 4 Series Receive Alpina Power Boost

Alpina, the renowned automaker famed for its unique blend of luxury and performance, has unveiled the GT versions of its B3 and B4 models. This move caters to BMW enthusiasts desiring a sophisticated package that delivers M-like performance.

The new GT models boast a significant power boost. The twin-turbocharged inline-six engine now delivers 529hp, an increase of 34hp, and 729Nm of torque. This positions the Alpina B3 GT sedan and B3 GT Touring, along with the B4 GT Gran Coupe, on par with BMW’s M3 Competition models.

Alpina has attributed this power increase to revised engine mapping. The enhanced performance allows the B3 GT sedan to accelerate from 0 to 100km/h in just 3.4 seconds. The B3 GT Touring and B4 GT Gran Coupe achieve this in 3.5 seconds. All models feature power distribution to all four wheels through a ZF eight-speed automatic transmission.

Visually, the GT versions maintain a subtle yet distinctive look. They feature small canards and a front splitter, along with a redesigned black diffuser and new exhaust tips. Alpina’s signature shades of blue and green are available, alongside a broad range of BMW Individual colours. The Alpina badging is prominent on both the exterior and interior, including the GT script in Oro Tecnico.

The B3 GT is offered in both sedan and wagon trims. These models, based on the 3 Series, sport the smaller grille compared to the M3, providing a different aesthetic choice for buyers. The B4 GT, available in Gran Coupe format, shares the same power and performance enhancements.

These models will be exclusive to the European market, with deliveries starting in November. Pricing begins at 101,700 Euros (RMRM518,008) for the B3 sedan, 102,900 Euros (RM524,098) for the B3 Touring, and 105,100 Euros (RM535,348) for the B4 GT Gran Coupe.

The new GT versions from Alpina offer a compelling alternative for BMW buyers seeking a luxurious yet powerful driving experience. With M-level performance and unique Alpina styling, these models provide a sophisticated option in the high-performance vehicle segment.

Debunking the Myth: EV-Specific Tyres Unnecessary, Says Michelin

There has been an ongoing debate about whether electric vehicle (EV) owners need to purchase tyres specifically designed for EVs. While some argue that EVs require special tyres, many EV owners find that standard tyres perform well and offer long life. Michelin, a trusted tyre manufacturer, has weighed in on this issue, dispelling the myth that EV-specific tyres are necessary, as reported by Torque News.

Before diving into Michelin’s stance, it’s important to understand some widely accepted facts about EVs:

Weight: EVs are generally heavier than similarly sized vehicles with conventional powertrains due to their large batteries.
Torque: EVs offer more torque and deliver it more smoothly than most conventionally powered vehicles.
Noise: EVs are quieter inside the cabin, amplifying tyres and road noise.
Efficiency: Range and efficiency are critical for many EV owners.
Spare tyres: Most EV models do not come with spare tyres.

These characteristics influence tyre selection, emphasising durability, noise reduction, and efficiency. However, these needs are not exclusive to EVs; many conventional vehicles share similar requirements.

Michelin’s Perspective on EV Tyres

Michelin asserts that their latest generation of tyres are “EV Ready” and do not need to be specifically labeled as EV tyres. According to Michelin product managers, their tyres inherently possess the qualities that EV manufacturers and consumers seek, such as long wear, noise reduction, and low rolling resistance.

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MyJPJ App Update: Now Supports Online Banking for Payments

In a significant update to the MyJPJ app, users can now make direct payments using online banking (FPX) for a variety of transactions within the app, including driving licence and road tax renewals. This addition simplifies the payment process and provides users with more flexibility and convenience.

Expanded Payment Options

Previously, the MyJPJ app only supported payments through debit and credit cards. With the latest update, users can now opt for online banking as a payment method, enhancing the app’s usability. This update allows users to select “Online Banking (FPX)” when making a transaction, choose their preferred bank, and then complete the payment through their bank’s login page.

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Volkswagen Expands ID.7 Lineup with New High-Performance and Extended Range Models

Volkswagen is significantly expanding its ID.7 electric vehicle range with the introduction of new models, including the high-performance ID.7 GTX and the versatile ID.7 GTX Tourer. Both models boast impressive features and performance capabilities, solidifying Volkswagen’s commitment to electric mobility.

High-Performance ID.7 GTX and GTX Tourer

Leading the charge is the ID.7 GTX, a fastback model equipped with a 340PS output and electric all-wheel drive. This powerhouse vehicle can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 5.4 seconds, thanks to its dual-motor setup that delivers 250 kW. It also boasts a substantial WLTP range of up to 595km, making it both a thrilling and practical choice for EV enthusiasts. The ID.7 GTX supports fast charging with up to 200 kW at DC stations, allowing the 86-kWh battery to charge from 10% to 80% in just 26 minutes.

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Latest News

Proton Registers 13.6% Sales Growth in May Amid Positive Market Sentiment

Export Sales Surge

CAAM Urges Aspiring Pilots to Research Flying Schools Amid Sector Recovery

BMW 3 Series and 4 Series Receive Alpina Power Boost

Debunking the Myth: EV-Specific Tyres Unnecessary, Says Michelin

Michelin’s Perspective on EV Tyres

MyJPJ App Update: Now Supports Online Banking for Payments

Expanded Payment Options

Volkswagen Expands ID.7 Lineup with New High-Performance and Extended Range Models

High-Performance ID.7 GTX and GTX Tourer

Proton Expands Global Presence with New CKD Plant in Egypt

Malaysia Targets 20% EV Sales by 2030 Amid Growing Adoption and Infrastructure Expansion

East Coast Rail Line (ECRL) Progress Update: Phase One and Two Completion Dates Announced

Lalamove Enters Ride-Hailing Market with New Service in Klang Valley

Neta Facing Financial Instability

Sinkhole Developed On NKVE Following Heavy Rainfall

Tesla’s Safety Design Questioned Following Toronto Crash That Killed Four

Bentley Crossover SUV EV to Debut in 2026

Penang to Launch Six-Month Trial of Dedicated Bus Lanes

Chery Malaysia Celebrates First Locally Assembled Electric Vehicle, the Omoda E5

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