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Honda Motor Co., Ltd. has announced a significant revision to its previously disclosed plans for a dedicated fuel cell module production facility in Moka City, Tochigi Prefecture, Japan. The changes come in response to recent shifts in the global hydrogen market, prompting the company to reduce the intended production capacity and postpone the plant’s operational launch.

Initially, Honda intended to repurpose part of its former Powertrain Unit Factory in Moka for the exclusive production of its next-generation hydrogen fuel cell modules. This facility was to commence operations within the fiscal year ending 31 March 2028 (FY2028) and was projected to have an annual production capacity of 30,000 units. Preparatory work for the project had already begun.

However, a reassessment driven by evolving conditions in the hydrogen energy landscape has led Honda to scale back the scope of its production ambitions. The company has opted to delay the start of mass production and revise the initial capacity target downwards, although specific revised figures have not been disclosed.

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Proton has previewed the All-New Proton X50 to members of the Malaysian media, signalling the company’s first major model launch of 2025. As anticipation builds, the B-segment SUV—already a dominant force in its category since its October 2020 debut with over 134,000 units sold—returns with a striking new design, expanded technological features, and improved performance.

The updated X50, which has held the top spot in its class for five consecutive years, is set to raise the benchmark once again. It now arrives in three distinct variants—Executive, Premium, and Flagship—each benefitting from a thorough overhaul that touches every aspect of the vehicle, from aesthetics and safety to power and connectivity.

Proton is rolling out a series of promotional events ahead of the official launch to familiarise the public with the SUV’s new features and begin accepting early bookings. The campaign reflects Proton’s confidence in its most advanced X50 to date.

Visually, the All-New X50 departs from its predecessor with a bolder, more refined exterior. Notable updates include a redesigned front grille and bumper, a more athletic rear spoiler, and quad exhaust tailpipes that emphasise its performance credentials. A two-tone colour scheme adds visual flair, further complemented by textured alloy wheels that complete the look.

Inside, the transformation continues with an elevated interior experience. Soft-touch materials, a luxury-inspired floating floor console, and column-mounted shifters bring a touch of class. Meanwhile, a 72-colour rhythmic ambient lighting system allows for personalisation rarely seen in the segment. In addition to four familiar colour choices—Snow White, Passion Red, Jet Grey, and Armour Silver—the X50 welcomes a fresh and distinctive option: Teal Bayou Green.

At the heart of the SUV’s technology offering is a significantly enlarged 14.6-inch infotainment display, which now supports both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Notably, Proton introduces voice recognition in Bahasa Melayu for the first time, delivering a more localised and intuitive user experience.

The new Proton Link 2.0 app enhances daily usability with a range of remote functions, including engine and air-conditioning activation, live vehicle status updates, and service appointment scheduling—all accessible via a smartphone.

Safety remains a core pillar of the new X50. The model incorporates Proton’s upgraded Level 2 Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), now bolstered by the addition of a Rear Side Radar System (RSRS). The Auto Park Assist system has also been refined, and the inclusion of a 360-degree HD camera with a 180-degree undercarriage transparent view significantly improves situational awareness.

These features are paired with a 5-star ASEAN NCAP safety rating, reaffirming the vehicle’s strong safety credentials and making it one of the most secure options in its class.

Beneath the bonnet lies the next-generation 1.5-litre i-GT TD engine, paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. This combination generates an impressive 181PS and 290 Nm of torque, enabling the SUV to sprint from 0 to 100km/h in just 7.6 seconds, shaving 0.3 seconds off its predecessor’s time.

Fuel economy has also been improved, with a 4.7% increase in efficiency that underscores the brand’s commitment to sustainable performance without compromising driving excitement.

With the All-New X50, Proton is not only setting new standards for itself but also reaffirming its ambition to lead the local SUV segment through innovation, accessibility, and design excellence.

Chinese premium electric vehicle brand Zeekr has announced the formation of Zeekr Intelligent Technology (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd, a dedicated National Sales Company (NSC) established to oversee its operations in the Malaysian market. The move signals a decisive commitment by Zeekr to deepen its roots in Southeast Asia and elevate its standing in Malaysia’s fast-growing EV landscape.

The NSC will take direct control of core business functions including wholesale distribution, dealer network development, brand strategy, marketing initiatives, and aftersales support nationwide. Zeekr’s latest step comes on the back of rapid international growth, having already reached 500,000 mass-produced vehicles globally as of June and successfully entering over 40 countries and regions.

According to Alex Bao, Managing Director of Zeekr Southeast Asia, Malaysia represents a pivotal market for the brand within the region. He stated that significant investments are being channelled into building a sustainable and customer-centric presence. Bao noted that the formation of the NSC would serve as a bridge between Zeekr and Malaysian consumers, enabling the company to respond more effectively to customer feedback and expectations. He also emphasised three key areas of focus: expanding network reach, strengthening aftersales services, and ramping up marketing efforts.

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The Road Transport Department (RTD) has announced a firm stance against operators of express buses and commercial goods vehicles who fail to settle their outstanding summonses by the upcoming deadline of July 8. Vehicles that remain unpaid beyond this date will face immediate enforcement action, including blacklisting and removal from public roads.

According to NST, Datuk Aedy Fadly Ramli, Director-General of the RTD, warned that any vehicle with unsettled summonses will be prohibited from operating. He stressed that RTD enforcement teams will be deployed from midnight on the final day to take decisive action against non-compliant vehicles.

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Toyota’s commitment to the internal combustion engine is gaining serious momentum with the development of a new range of advanced four-cylinder powerplants. Over a year since the initial announcement, the automaker’s upcoming 1.5-litre and 2.0-litre engines are shaping up to be lightweight, compact, and engineered for efficiency without compromising on performance. Among them, the 2.0-litre “G20E” variant has already attracted widespread attention, particularly after its unexpected debut in the striking GR Yaris M concept earlier this year.

Unveiled at the Tokyo Auto Salon, the GR Yaris M made waves with its wild mid-engine layout and aggressive power figures. Positioned just behind the driver, the G20E engine is paired with an IHI turbocharger and currently delivers an estimated 400hp to 450hp. However, Toyota engineers have indicated that this is far from the engine’s full potential. According to technical sources quoted by Auto Motor und Sport, a larger turbocharger could easily push the output beyond 600hp—more than twice the performance of the 1.6-litre “G16E-GTS” unit used in the GR Yaris, GR Corolla, and Lexus LBX Morizo RR.

Despite this potential, regulatory constraints will likely play a significant role in shaping the production-ready output of the G20E. With global emissions regulations tightening, Toyota is expected to dial back the final figures to maintain CO₂ compliance. Even so, a detuned version producing upwards of 400hp or even 500hp would still offer remarkable performance for a street-legal sports car. For motorsport applications, however, the uncorked engine is likely to reach its upper limits and showcase its true capability.

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