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Audi has broadened its Gran Turismo portfolio with the introduction of the e-tron GT quattro, a new entry point into the brand’s high-performance electric saloon family. This latest model joins the existing S e-tron GT, RS e-tron GT, and the flagship RS e-tron GT performance, offering a refined balance of electric performance, daily practicality, and Gran Turismo styling.

The e-tron GT quattro is equipped with a dual-motor setup capable of delivering 496hp of power, with a temporary boost to 576hp available via Launch Control. Powered by a 105 kWh battery (97 kWh usable), the car provides an estimated range of up to 622km on a single charge, making it well suited for long-distance journeys and urban commuting alike.

Charging capabilities have been significantly enhanced, with the model supporting up to 320 kW of direct current fast charging. In optimal conditions, it can replenish up to 285km of range in just ten minutes. A thermal management system automatically conditions the battery when navigating to high-power chargers, ensuring peak charging efficiency with minimal waiting time.

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In a decisive step toward accelerating its electrification agenda, Mazda Motor Corporation has entered a strategic partnership with Contemporary Amperex Technology Co., Ltd. (CATL), the global leader in electric vehicle battery manufacturing. The collaboration, conducted through Mazda’s Chinese joint venture with Changan Automobile, Changan Mazda, will centre around the adoption of CATL’s state-of-the-art CIIC (Cell to Chassis Integrated Intelligent Chassis) platform.

Unveiled in December last year, CATL’s CIIC platform offers a revolutionary skateboard-style vehicle architecture. It employs a decoupled structure that separates the vehicle’s upper and lower bodies, allowing for modular sub-systems and standardised connection interfaces. This setup facilitates enhanced flexibility in both hardware and software integration, enabling automakers to streamline vehicle development while rapidly adapting to shifting market demands.

By merging CATL’s advanced chassis technology with Changan Mazda’s established automotive production capabilities, the joint venture aims to significantly reduce development lead times and introduce new energy vehicles (NEVs) that respond swiftly to evolving consumer and regulatory expectations.

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Japanese automotive manufacturer Toyota is reportedly exploring the possibility of acquiring Neta Auto, a Chinese electric vehicle company facing severe financial distress, reported by Car News China. The potential deal, though not confirmed by Toyota, was highlighted in a report by Kuai Technology on 12 May, suggesting that such a move could serve to strengthen Toyota’s electric vehicle strategy in China, the world’s most competitive EV market.

Neta Auto, operated by Hozon New Energy Auto and founded in 2014, has been in crisis since the middle of 2024. The company halted production and implemented mass layoffs, while simultaneously scrambling to secure outside investment. In February this year, a much-anticipated Series E financing round failed. This round was projected to raise between 4 billion and 4.5 billion yuan (approximately USD 552–621 million), with the bulk of funding—3 billion yuan (USD 414 million)—expected from a lead investor associated with a BRICS country fund. However, the investment was conditional upon the company restarting production and attracting additional matching funds, neither of which came to fruition, prompting the investor to withdraw and causing the financing effort to collapse.

Although Neta attempted to restart operations by briefly reopening its Tongxiang facility in January, a shortage of essential components prevented production from resuming. This setback had a domino effect, undermining investor confidence and leading to a dramatic decline in the company’s valuation.

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Nissan Motor Co is reportedly set to eliminate an additional 10,000 jobs worldwide, deepening its workforce reduction efforts as the troubled automaker grapples with what could be its worst annual financial loss on record. The latest cuts, reported by Japanese broadcaster NHK and the Nikkei business daily, come on the heels of a previous announcement in November to shed 9,000 positions.

If confirmed, the latest move would mark a total workforce reduction of approximately 15 per cent globally as Nissan attempts to navigate a landscape of mounting debt, intense competition, and faltering profitability. The company declined to comment on the latest media reports.

Nissan is expected to post a net loss of between 700 billion and 750 billion yen for the fiscal year ending March 2025. This would eclipse its previous record loss of 684 billion yen recorded in 1999-2000, a period marked by crisis that eventually led to its turbulent partnership with French automaker Renault.

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While Jetour’s spotlight was firmly fixed on the national launch of its VT9 seven-seater SUV and the prominent display of the rugged T2 SUV, an intriguing third model made a more discreet appearance in the background—the all-electric Jetour eVT5.

Positioned as a compact electric SUV, the eVT5 comes equipped with a 53.6 kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery supplied by CATL. Under the now-outdated NEDC testing cycle, the SUV claims a driving range of 356 kilometres on a full charge. Charging capabilities are also notable, with the battery able to replenish from 30% to 80% in just 30 minutes via a charging port located at the front of the SUV.

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Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia (MMM), the official distributor of Mitsubishi vehicles in the country, is proudly celebrating its 20th anniversary this year, marking two decades of growth, innovation, and strong customer loyalty. The milestone is being commemorated in grand fashion at the Malaysia Autoshow 2025, taking place from 9 to 15 May at the Malaysia Agro Exposition Park Serdang (MAEPS).

Since its inception in 2005, MMM has firmly established itself in the Malaysian automotive landscape with a portfolio of vehicles recognised for reliability, robust performance, and adventurous appeal. Over the past 20 years, the company has delivered more than 200,000 vehicles to Malaysian drivers—a figure that underscores its continued relevance and the strong trust placed in the brand.

Central to MMM’s success story is the Mitsubishi Triton, a model that has become synonymous with rugged performance and off-road capability. The pick-up truck accounts for a remarkable 54.3% of the company’s total vehicle deliveries in Malaysia to date, proving its enduring appeal across both urban and rural terrains. The Triton’s reputation for dependability and versatility has made it a favourite among Malaysians seeking both utility and dynamic driving performance.

To support its expanding customer base, MMM has established a nationwide network of over 60 authorised dealerships, offering accessible sales and after-sales services throughout the country.

Marking the anniversary, Shinya Ikeda, Chief Executive Officer of Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia, expressed gratitude to all stakeholders who contributed to the brand’s journey. He stated that reaching this 20-year milestone is a reflection of the trust and passion of its customers, dealers, and partners. He reaffirmed MMM’s commitment to delivering vehicles that uphold the brand’s hallmarks of performance, dependability, and excellent after-sales care.

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