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Proton’s entry into the electric vehicle segment has made an emphatic impact, with more than 2,700 units of the Proton e.MAS 7 delivered across Malaysia and export markets within just four months. Since its launch in January 2025, the fully electric SUV has recorded an average of one unit sold every hour—an impressive feat that underscores the model’s strong reception among Malaysian buyers.

In April alone, 863 units of the e.MAS 7 were registered, both locally and abroad. This consistent performance has enabled the vehicle to maintain a commanding 26% share of the electric vehicle market in Malaysia for the fourth consecutive month, cementing its position as a market leader.

Zhang Qiang, Chief Executive Officer of PRO-NET—Proton’s EV-focused subsidiary—attributed the success to growing public trust and a clear shift in consumer sentiment toward electric mobility. He noted that Malaysians have demonstrated an eagerness to embrace the EV transition, and the e.MAS 7 has become the preferred choice for families, working professionals, and those upgrading from internal combustion engine vehicles.

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OMODA | JAECOO Malaysia has strengthened its operational capabilities in response to rising demand, unveiling a significant expansion of its aftersales infrastructure. The brand, known for its premium off-road SUVs, has established a new central parts warehouse in Shah Alam to enhance nationwide support for its growing customer base and dealer network.

The newly operational facility, managed by Chery Corporate Malaysia, marks a strategic investment in aftersales excellence. Located within the Hicom Industrial Estate, the warehouse spans 88,000 square feet, more than double the size of its predecessor, significantly increasing storage and logistics capacity for all brands under the automotive group’s umbrella.

This development underscores OMODA | JAECOO Malaysia’s commitment to delivering a high standard of service aligned with the brand’s vision of redefining attainable luxury. The warehouse plays a vital role in supporting an expanding dealership network, ensuring rapid parts availability and service continuity across the country.

The facility has been operational since March 2025 and currently stocks approximately 10,000 components for all existing OMODA | JAECOO models sold in Malaysia. It also includes dedicated inventory for iCAUR vehicles, anticipating the arrival of the brand’s inaugural model, the iCAUR 03, which is expected to launch in the third quarter of 2025.

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Lexus has officially introduced the 2025 IS 500 Ultimate Edition, a limited-run variant that pays homage to the performance legacy of the IS lineup and marks a symbolic farewell to the naturally aspirated V8 in a world increasingly shifting toward electrification and hybridisation. Only 500 units will be available across North America, with sales expected to commence later this year.

Since its global debut in 1999, the Lexus IS has evolved into a cornerstone of the brand’s performance sedan offerings. With around 1.3 million units sold in more than 40 countries and regions over the past two decades, the model has garnered a loyal following for its dynamic rear-wheel-drive layout and refined handling, positioning it as a serious rival to European competitors.

Under the bonnet, the IS 500 Ultimate Edition retains the 5.0-litre naturally aspirated 2UR-GSE V8 engine, delivering a robust 472hp and 535Nm of torque exclusively to the rear wheels via an eight-speed Sport Direct Shift (SPDS) automatic transmission. This powertrain has become a hallmark of the IS 500 F SPORT Performance grade, offering a uniquely visceral driving experience that is becoming increasingly rare in the segment.

Complementing the car’s powerful output is an advanced braking system, featuring 6-piston aluminium Brembo callipers and large 380mm ventilated disc brakes, designed for improved fade resistance and confident stopping power. These high-performance brakes are finished in red, adding a visual cue to their capability. Lightweight 19-inch forged alloy wheels from BBS, finished in matte black, reduce unsprung mass while reinforcing the vehicle’s purposeful stance.

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Honda Motor Co., Ltd. has unveiled a recalibrated approach to its electrification efforts, responding to the rapidly evolving global automotive landscape. Toshihiro Mibe, the company’s Global Chief Executive Officer, addressed the media today, offering insights into Honda’s revised direction, driven by a dynamic market environment and the growing importance of intelligent mobility technologies.

Despite external challenges, Honda remains committed to its long-term vision of carbon neutrality and zero traffic fatalities by 2050. The Japanese automaker continues to view electric vehicles (EVs) as the most viable pathway to decarbonising mobility. However, in light of regulatory changes and uncertain global trade conditions, Honda is adapting its strategy to ensure sustained competitiveness and broader accessibility to its mobility innovations.

Reassessing Priorities in a Shifting Market

Mibe confirmed that Honda would intensify its efforts in two key areas: the advancement of intelligent technologies across its EV and hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) lineups, and a comprehensive review of its powertrain portfolio. This dual focus aims to strengthen the brand’s foundations while maintaining its innovation momentum.

Although Honda previously set a target for EVs to comprise 30% of global vehicle sales by 2030, this projection has now been revised downward due to a softening in EV demand. Simultaneously, HEVs continue to gain popularity, prompting Honda to place greater emphasis on this transitional technology.

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MG Malaysia has formally announced the retail price of its new all-electric MG S5 EV, setting it at RM115,900 for the COM variant, RM125,900 for the COM Long Range and RM135,900 for the LUX Long Range. This comes shortly after its public debut at the Malaysia Autoshow 2025, where the company initially hinted at a starting price of RM115,000 and offered exclusive incentives to early adopters.

During the autoshow, prospective buyers were invited to place a RM500 booking to secure an early bird package, which included benefits worth ten times the booking fee and a complimentary 7kW Wallbox AC charger.

This initiative reflects MG’s broader efforts to make home EV charging solutions more accessible in Malaysia’s evolving electric vehicle landscape.

The MG S5 EV is offered in three trim levels: COM, COM Long Rand and LUX Long Range. The COM variant is available with a choice of either a 49kWh or a 62kWh battery pack, providing a WLTP-rated driving range of up to 340 km and 430 km respectively. The LUX variant, which comes exclusively with the larger 62kWh battery, also delivers a range of up to 430 km.

Both versions are powered by a rear-mounted electric motor, delivering 170PS and 250Nm of torque, making the MG S5 EV the only model in its segment to offer a rear-wheel-drive layout.

Charging capabilities vary slightly between the two variants. All models support 7kW AC charging, suitable for standard home wallbox systems. However, the LUX variant supports 150kW DC fast charging, enabling the battery to recharge from 10% to 80% in approximately 26 minutes.

This quick-charge capability is further supported by MG’s proprietary battery management system, which includes an adaptive pressure control mechanism to reduce battery cell expansion and improve both durability and safety.

The LUX variant stands out for its premium appointments and added technology features. It is equipped with 18-inch alloy wheels, a panoramic sunroof, and leather-fabric upholstery with MG-branded perforations. A heated leather steering wheel, wireless phone charging, powered tailgate, and a six-speaker audio system contribute to the overall sense of refinement.

Driver assistance and convenience features include a 360-degree camera system and a digital cockpit comprising a 12.8-inch infotainment screen with voice command support and a 10.25-inch digital instrument display. The iSMART connectivity system, which is included as standard, offers full wireless integration with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Styling elements are consistent across both variants, with LED headlamps featuring Racing Flag-inspired daytime running lights and MG’s signature Arch taillight motif at the rear. Practicality is also a strong suit, with the MG S5 EV offering up to 1,441 litres of boot space including an underfloor compartment.

The model is equipped with Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) capability, enabling it to power external devices when needed — a useful feature for camping or emergency scenarios.

MG has engineered the S5 EV around an ultra-thin horizontal battery design, resulting in a lower centre of gravity and increased cabin room. According to MG Motor Malaysia, this configuration raises the bar in the B-segment electric vehicle category, combining interior space efficiency with improved driving dynamics.

The dual battery offering across both trims is aimed at providing flexibility for drivers, whether prioritising daily urban commutes or longer-distance travel.

The MG S5 EV is offered in a palette of five exterior colours: White, Monument Silver, Camden Grey, Dynamic Red, and Elegant Latte.

The first 500 customers get a complimentary 7KW wallbox charger and an RM6,000 discount.

Chinese automaker BYD has expanded its electric vehicle portfolio with the official launch of the BYD e7, an all-electric mid-size sedan designed to cater to younger drivers and fleet operators such as taxi services. With prices starting from 103,800 yuan to 115,800 yuan (approximately RM67,800 to RM75,700), the e7 offers two CLTC-certified range variants — 450 km and 520 km — providing an accessible option in the growing EV market.

The new e7 features BYD’s signature low-cost e-series design language. The front fascia is completely enclosed, intended to evoke a “smiley face” appearance, complemented by the centrally placed BYD badge and sharply defined rib lines on the bonnet. At the rear, a multi-layered design is matched with a ducktail spoiler and a continuous light strip that spans the width of the vehicle. Additional lighting fixtures are located near the lower bumper, while the “e7” model designation is affixed on the bottom right. Conventional pull-type door handles have been retained, underscoring its entry-level market positioning.

With a body measuring 4,780 mm in length, 1,900 mm in width, and 1,515 mm in height, and a wheelbase of 2,820 mm, the e7 is positioned firmly within the mid-size sedan segment, slightly bigger than a Tesla Model 3. It rides on modest 16-inch alloy wheels, suitable for daily commuting and fleet usage.

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