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The Malaysian government is set to enforce the Vehicle Entry Permit (VEP) for foreign vehicles, particularly from Singapore, starting October 1. Transport Minister Anthony Loke has emphasised the government’s firm stance on this decision, highlighting the importance of compliance with Malaysian road laws for all foreign drivers.

Key Points of the VEP Implementation:

  1. Strict Enforcement:
    • The VEP will be mandatory from October 1, with no changes or delays to this enforcement date.
    • Foreign drivers, especially from Singapore, must comply with Malaysian road regulations.
  2. Compliance Expectations:
    • Singaporean drivers entering Malaysia are expected to adhere to the same legal standards that Malaysian drivers must follow when entering Singapore.
    • Foreign drivers must pay any fines for traffic violations before leaving Malaysia.
  3. Tracking and Enforcement:
    • Currently, without the VEP, there is no effective method to track foreign vehicles and enforce traffic laws.
    • The VEP will enable Malaysian authorities to monitor foreign vehicles and ensure payment of fines for any traffic violations.
  4. Entry Points for VEP Enforcement:
    • Sultan Iskandar Building (BSI) at Johor Causeway.
    • Sultan Abu Bakar Building at Malaysia-Singapore Second Link.

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The 2025 BMW M5 is set to be the most powerful iteration of the iconic badge, boasting impressive performance capabilities and cutting-edge technology. However, it also holds the distinction of being the heaviest M5 to date, primarily due to its new hybrid powertrain.

Powertrain and Performance

Engine and Electric Motor:

  • Engine: Twin-turbocharged 4.4-litre V8
  • Electric Motor: Integrated into the eight-speed transmission
  • Total System Output: 717hp and 1,000Nm of torque
  • Engine Output: 577hp
  • Motor Output: 194hp
  • Battery: 14.8 kWh hybrid battery

Performance:

  • 0-100km/h: 3.4 seconds
  • Top Speed: 250km/h (305km/h with M Driver’s Package)
  • Electric-Only Range: 40km

Driving Modes and Dynamics

Drive Modes:

  • Comfort: Optimises for efficiency and smoothness, with the petrol engine shutting off more often.
  • Sport and Sport Plus: Keep the engine running for a more dynamic experience.
  • Dynamic and Dynamic Plus: Full power and enhanced cooling for track duty, allows xDrive all-wheel-drive system to switch to rear-wheel drive.

Handling and Braking:

  • Differential Lock: Electronically controlled, improves cornering by sending power to the needed wheel.
  • Active Rear Steering: Enhances handling by turning the rear wheels up to 1.5 degrees.
  • Brakes: Six-piston callipers on 16.1-inch discs at the front, single-piston floating callipers on 15.7-inch discs at the rear. Optional M Carbon ceramic brakes with 16.5-inch front discs, reducing weight by 24kg.

Suspension:

  • Rear Axle: Model-specific five-link setup with strengthened components.
  • Front Axle: Double-wishbone design with M5-specific hubs.
  • Bracing: Extra strut tower, underfloor bracing, and stronger mounts for enhanced rigidity.
  • Adaptive M Suspension: Standard, with electronically controlled dampers for fine-tuning.

Design and Technology

Exterior:

  • Dimensions: 3.0 inches wider at the front, 1.9 inches wider at the rear.
  • Design: Redesigned sides, aggressive front fascia with vents, quad exhaust tips, and a subtle lip spoiler.
  • Wheels: 20-inch front and 21-inch rear wheels.
  • Colours: Nine standard colours at launch, with numerous BMW Individual shades available.

Interior and Technology:

  • Operating System: BMW’s 8.5 operating system with M-specific displays.
  • HUD: Standard heads-up display.
  • Entertainment: Video streaming and AirConsole games.
  • Customisation: Individual settings for suspension, brakes, steering, transmission, and the xDrive system.

Pricing and Availability

  • Weight: 2,444kg
  • Starting Price: $120,675 (RM568,368)

Sime Darby Motors (SDM) announced the launch of DRIVECARE, a new multi-franchise one-stop service centre designed to cater to the needs of car owners across all segments and brands. This initiative aims to offer customers competitive pricing, convenience and comfort backed by the expertise of SM’s highly trained technicians.

DRIVECARE is targeted for expansion across Southeast Asian markets, followed by a rollout throughout SM’s operations across the Asia Pacific region. This strategic expansion underscores SM’s unwavering commitment to offering accessible and reliable automotive services.

DRIVECARE was created to tackle common frustrations faced by customers at many vehicle service workshops, such as inadequate facilities and workmanship, subpar customer service and lack of comfortable waiting areas. By leveraging SDM’s extensive automotive expertise and advanced equipment, DRIVECARE promises an exceptional experience for car service and maintenance at competitive prices.

DRIVECARE customers can look forward to well-maintained facilities, organised workspaces and comfortable lounges. The state-of-the-art facilities and cutting-edge equipment at DRIVECARE ensure that every vehicle receives the utmost care and attention from its team of experienced technicians.

Complementing DRIVECARE is Sime Darby Auto Selection, Sime Darby Motors’ trusted brand for pre-owned vehicles, offering a cost-effective alternative to purchasing a new car. DRIVECARE operates within the Auto Selection facility, ensuring seamless service and support for pre-owned vehicle buyers.

Customers can visit DRIVECARE’s official service centres located at Lot 33 Glenmarie and at Chan Sow Lin, which are open and ready to cater to customers’ needs. To commemorate the launch, from June 26 to July 31, 2024, DRIVECARE is offering special promotions to invite customers to experience the services by DRIVECARE.

These include complimentary vehicle inspections, a 20% discount for parts and labour charges, and a complimentary set of wiper blades with every windshield replacement. To enhance the customer experience further, all services during the promotional period will also include a complimentary car wash and a free Liqui Moly product.

In addition, DRIVECARE is offering a limited-time promotion for customers servicing two vehicles. The first 100 customers who bring a second car for servicing will enjoy a 50% discount on engine oil, subject to terms and conditions. This offer is valid only for vehicles registered under the same owner. Visit www.drivecare.com.my for more information.

Audi has enhanced its RS Q8 lineup by introducing an updated version of the flagship SUV, including a new Performance variant. This addition follows the trend set by other RS-badged models like the RS4, RS5, RS6, and RS7 Performance, and brings significant power and performance enhancements.

Power and Performance

Performance

RS Q8 Performance:

  • Engine: 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8
  • Power: 631hp
  • Torque: 850Nm
  • 0-100km/h: 3.6 seconds
  • Top Speed: 305km/h

This power boost makes the RS Q8 Performance the most powerful Audi gas model, surpassing even the discontinued R8 with its V10 engine. The new Performance model has also set a new record at the Nürburgring, completing a lap in 7 minutes and 36.69 seconds, surpassing the Porsche Cayenne Turbo GT by over two seconds.

Standard

Standard RS Q8:

  • Power: 591hp
  • Torque: 800Nm
  • 0-100km/h: 3.8 seconds
  • Top Speed: Electronically limited to 250km/h (optional increases to 280km/h or 305km/h)

Design and Features

Exterior:

  • Grille: New honeycomb design with extended pattern on the air intakes
  • Exhaust: Lighter system with reduced back pressure and deeper sound, optional RS sport exhaust system for enhanced noise
  • Lights: Matrix LED headlights with laser high-beam, OLED taillights with five customisable light signatures
  • Wheels: Optional matte gold 23-inch wheels with 295/35 tyres
  • Brakes: Ceramic brakes with 440-mm front and 370-mm rear discs
  • Paint Options: Sakhir Gold, Ascari Blue, and Chili Red

Interior:

  • Seats: Perforated sport seats with honeycomb stitching
  • Steering Wheel: Wrapped in Alcantara
  • Materials: Microfiber from recycled bottles for gear selector and other areas
  • Suspension: Adaptive air suspension with adjustable ride height up to 3.5 inches
  • Technology: Electromechanical active roll stabilization, rear-wheel steering
Performance

Pricing and Availability

  • RS Q8: Starts at €141,900 (RM712,941) in Germany
  • RS Q8 Performance: Starts at €155,700 (RM782,316) in Germany
  • Order Books Open: June 27 in Europe

Audi’s update to the RS Q8, particularly with the new Performance variant, showcases the brand’s commitment to delivering high-performance luxury SUVs with cutting-edge technology and enhanced driving dynamics. The combination of increased power, advanced features, and refined styling positions the RS Q8 as a formidable contender in the performance SUV market.

RS Q8 Performance

RS Q8 Standard

BMW has achieved a significant milestone in the field of automated driving by becoming the first carmaker to receive approval for a combination of Level 2 and Level 3 driving assistance systems within a single vehicle. The new BMW 7 Series offers the BMW Highway Assistant (Level 2) and BMW Personal Pilot L3 (Level 3), enhancing the driving experience by providing greater comfort and safety.

BMW Highway Assistant (Level 2)

Key Features:

  • Enhanced Long-Distance Comfort: Operates at speeds up to 130km/h, designed for motorways with structurally separated carriageways.
  • Hands-Free Operation: Allows the driver to take their hands off the steering wheel for extended periods, provided they remain attentive to the road and can retake control if needed.
  • Active Lane Change Assistant: Enables lane changes without the driver touching the steering wheel. The system performs the necessary steering movements and adjusts vehicle speed when safe. Drivers can initiate lane changes by simply looking at the exterior mirror.

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The Road Transport Department (JPJ) of Malaysia has issued a series of recalls for several automotive brands, including Toyota, Mercedes-Benz, and Chery. Below are the details for each brand and model affected.

Toyota

Model: Toyota Corolla Cross
Affected Units: 2,739
Production Period: July 2023 – September 2023
Recall Status: Ongoing since March 2024
Action: Toyota will contact owners for vehicle inspections and necessary repairs.

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