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In a grand celebration of shared passion and camaraderie, Ford Penampang (Rightpower Corporation) recently played host to the 7th Mega TT Gathering in collaboration with the Ford Ranger Owners Club (FROC) Borneo Region.

This monumental event, held at the J Borneo Native Village in Penampang, marked the largest gathering organised by the club to date, uniting 107 club members and their formidable Ford Rangers from various locations across Sabah, Labuan, and Brunei.

The event drew a total of 320 participants, including owners and their family members, fostering a strong sense of community among enthusiasts and like-minded individuals. The 7th Mega TT Gathering went beyond a typical meet-up, offering a day filled with vibrant activities, thrilling games, soulful karaoke sessions, and exciting performances.

The highlight of the day was the recognition of outstanding Rangers across various categories, with awards and prizes adding an extra layer of excitement to the festivities.

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In an intriguing development, the number of registered vehicles in Malaysia has surpassed the country’s population, revealing a total of more than 36.3 million vehicles as of October this year, according to Transport Minister Anthony Loke.

With Malaysia’s population recorded at 32.4 million last year, the data indicates a significant proliferation of vehicles on the nation’s roads. According to NST, Cars take the lead in registered vehicles, numbering 17,244,978, followed closely by motorcycles at 16,773,112, and goods transportation vehicles at 1,429,403. The diversity extends to 84,745 taxis, 64,021 buses, 30,318 rental cars, and 736,410 other vehicles not categorised.

 

Remarkably, the active motor vehicle licenses or road taxes for 23,822,322 vehicles contrast with the inactivity of 12,540,664 vehicles without road taxes, presenting a comprehensive overview of the nation’s vehicular landscape.

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Mini has introduced the Mini Cooper SE, boasting an electrically generated 218hp, 330Nm of torque, and a 0 to 100 km/h sprint time of 6.7 seconds. At the forefront of eco-friendly driving, the high-voltage battery, with a substantial 54.2 kWh energy content, propels the Cooper SE to a commendable range of up to 402km, as per the WLTP test cycle.

For those seeking a sportier aesthetic, the Cooper SE can be ordered in the coveted John Cooper Works Trim. This variant pays homage to Mini’s motorsport heritage, including triumphant moments at the iconic Monte Carlo Rally in the 1960s.

The John Cooper Works Trim stands out with the distinctive logo, characterised by clear lines, vibrant red, white, and black hues, and a symbolised chequered flag on the octagonal front grille. Notable features include 18-inch wheels in Lap Spoke 2-tone design, JCW brake callipers in striking red, and bold bonnet stripes, underscoring the Mini’s dynamic character.

In JCW Trim, it showcases front and rear diffusers, a high-gloss black finish for the radiator grille surround and logo, and eye-catching contrasting roof and mirror caps in Chilli Red.

Interior elegance meets sporty flair with JCW seats adorned in synthetic leather, highlighted by red stitching and multi-coloured knitted material. The dashboard features a distinctive JCW pattern, reminiscent of a chequered flag, adding a touch of racing spirit to the cabin.

The central, high-resolution OLED display, measuring 240mm in diameter, serves as a hub for vehicle-related data, navigation, media, phone, and climate settings. Mini Experience Modes introduce a new realm of personalisation, including the John Cooper Works-inspired Go-Kart Mode, enhancing the driving experience with anthracite red accents and a unique sound profile.

Technological prowess extends to parking convenience with Parking Assistant Plus, featuring 12 ultrasonic sensors and four surround cameras. The innovative Explore Mode enables smartphone-controlled parking without the driver being inside the Mini, a game-changer in tight parking situations.

Charging the Cooper SE is a breeze with fast direct current charging of up to 95 kW, allowing a rapid 10% to 80% charge in under 30 minutes. The 11 kW alternating current charging is complemented by a smart navigation system that optimises battery temperature for efficient charging, particularly in adverse weather conditions, ensuring a swift and seamless charging experience.

In an eagerly awaited mid-life facelift, the Audi E-tron GT is poised to undergo a series of eye-catching styling revisions, with speculation rife about the introduction of a high-performance RS variant boasting a staggering 750bhp.

Scheduled for launch towards the end of 2024, the electric powerhouse, aimed squarely at the Tesla Model S, has been recently reported undergoing final testing in Germany. Reports suggest that the design overhaul aims to align the E-tron GT with the upcoming Audi Q6 E-tron SUV, slated for release in February 2024.

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Toyota is set to captivate truck enthusiasts with the upcoming release of the enhanced Toyota Hilux, boasting a mild-hybrid version designed to elevate both power and efficiency in this popular pickup.

At the heart of the innovation is a 48-volt mild-hybrid system seamlessly integrated into the powertrain, delivering an additional punch of 16hp and 65Nm of torque. This hybrid system complements Toyota’s robust turbocharged 2.8-litre diesel four-cylinder engine, which independently generates 201hp and an impressive 500Nm of torque. Notably, the 48V lithium battery powers the motor, contributing to a five per cent improvement in efficiency compared to the standard diesel powertrain.

Despite the absence of an electric-only mode, Toyota’s optimised stop-start system, coupled with the electric motor, extends fuel savings by allowing the engine to remain off for longer durations in heavy stop-and-go traffic. The diesel engine’s idle is also reduced to 600 rpm, further enhancing fuel efficiency. While specific fuel economy figures are yet to be disclosed, the automaker emphasises a noteworthy five per cent increase in overall efficiency.

Beyond its advanced powertrain, the Hilux Hybrid 48V introduces Toyota’s Multi-terrain Select system, featuring six driving modes—Dirt, Mud, Rock, Sand, Deep Snow, or Automatic mode, allowing the truck to intuitively adapt to diverse driving conditions. Recognising the Hilux’s off-road legacy, engineers have fortified the hybrid pickup by waterproofing critical electrical components, ensuring it can confidently navigate through challenging terrains, including wading through water up to 27.5 inches deep.

In a bold stance against the prevailing shift towards electric vehicles, Toyota’s Gazoo Racing division expresses unwavering confidence in the future of hydrogen combustion engines. Masahito Watanabe, Head of Gazoo Racing, asserts that internal combustion engines, particularly those powered by hydrogen, can coexist with the growing trend of electrification.

2021 Toyota GR Yaris Prototype with hydrogen engine

Watanabe highlighted that the internal combustion engine, specifically through hydrogen combustion, still holds untapped potential in the pursuit of zero-emission vehicles. He emphasised the commitment to exploring diverse technologies rather than succumbing to complete electrification. However, he acknowledged a significant obstacle: the lack of infrastructure for hydrogen vehicles, hindering enthusiasts who seek easy access to filling stations.

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