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Geely has achieved a major production milestone with the 200,000th unit of its budget-friendly electric vehicle, the Geome Xingyuan, rolling off the assembly line. This compact city EV has established itself as a serious contender in China’s entry-level electric vehicle market, where it directly rivals BYD’s high-volume Seagull.

With a starting price of 68,800 yuan (approximately RM45,000), the Xingyuan offers customers a competitive range of features for its segment. Two powertrain options are available: a 58 kW variant capable of a 310km range under the China Light-Duty Vehicle Test Cycle (CLTC), and a more powerful 85 kW version that extends the range to 410km. These choices provide buyers with greater flexibility compared to many other vehicles in the same class.

The Xingyuan features Geely’s distinctive rounded front design and a hatchback rear profile. Measuring 4,135 mm in length, 1,805 mm in width, and 1,570 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,650 mm, it offers a relatively spacious interior, especially in the rear, giving it a practical edge over similarly sized competitors such as the Seagull or the BYD Dolphin here. The model is available in a range of colour options, including standout shades like pink and blue, and includes semi-concealed door handles for a cleaner exterior look.

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Volkswagen is preparing to usher in a new era for its iconic performance hatchbacks, confirming that fully electric versions of the celebrated Golf GTI and Golf R are in development. These upcoming models are expected to redefine the brand’s sporty DNA with zero-emission powertrains and cutting-edge technology, while retaining the character that made their predecessors legendary.

The German automaker first hinted at its electric ambitions for the GTI line-up with the unveiling of the ID.GTI concept in 2023. That prototype offered a glimpse into how Volkswagen might reinterpret its performance legacy for the electric age. Now, the carmaker has confirmed that a production version of the electric GTI, based on the forthcoming ID.2 platform, will be introduced exclusively in the European market.

In a recent discussion with AutoExpress, Volkswagen’s CEO, Thomas Schäfer, revealed that a fully electric Golf GTI is slated for launch before the end of the decade. He expressed strong enthusiasm for the model, describing it as an exceptionally potent vehicle that will stay true to the GTI name. According to Schäfer, the electric GTI will maintain the spirit and excitement that fans of the nameplate expect, highlighting that it will be thrilling, authentic, and unmistakably a GTI despite its electric heart.

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The National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) has reaffirmed its commitment to improving road safety by offering specialised training for heavy vehicle drivers, according to Bernama. The training, delivered under the Safe and Defensive Driving Person (SDDP) module, is designed to equip drivers with the knowledge and skills required for safer and more responsible operation of large vehicles on Malaysian roads.

According to NIOSH vice-chairman G. Manivanan, the SDDP module was developed in collaboration with both industry experts and stakeholders, taking into account the specific challenges and demands faced by heavy vehicle drivers. The programme encompasses key components such as road legislation, vehicle maintenance, and road management practices, with a strong emphasis on accident prevention and heightened driver awareness.

The training has already been adopted by several companies operating fleets of buses and heavy vehicles. These organisations have begun using the module to enhance the competency and safety awareness of their workforce. NIOSH is now calling on other heavy vehicle operators—both in the public and private sectors—to adopt the SDDP training as a proactive measure to improve road safety.

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Stellantis has officially introduced its multi-brand Eurorepar product range to the Malaysian market. Making its debut appearance at Automechanika Kuala Lumpur 2025, Eurorepar’s entry signals a strategic push to establish a stronger foothold in the country’s rapidly evolving aftermarket industry.

Established in 2002, Eurorepar offers an extensive portfolio of over 17,000 automotive parts and service references, including spare parts, accessories, tyres, lubricants, and consumables. Designed to serve a wide array of vehicle makes and models, the brand’s expansion into Malaysia reflects Stellantis’ global ambition to provide accessible, high-quality automotive solutions beyond its proprietary marques.

Complementing the product range is Eurorepar Car Service, a multi-brand workshop network that delivers expert repair and maintenance services. Operational in more than 30 countries and supported by 6,500 service centres since its inception in 2003, the network aims to shift the Malaysian vehicle servicing market away from its traditional cost-centric focus to a more quality-driven approach. This transformation is expected to empower independent service centres by offering professional-standard services at competitive rates, underpinned by the reliability of OEM-authorised parts.

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Aston Martin has taken a bold step forward in the digital transformation of its vehicles by becoming the first car manufacturer in the world to offer Apple’s next-generation CarPlay Ultra, solidifying its position at the intersection of automotive luxury and cutting-edge technology.

CarPlay Ultra, unveiled as Apple’s latest evolution of the CarPlay platform, is now available across new Aston Martin vehicles in the United States and Canada. The system will also be rolled out globally over the next 12 months and offered as an update to current models equipped with Aston Martin’s next-generation infotainment system. Customers can expect the new technology in models such as the DBX, Vantage, DB12, and Vanquish, with updates for existing vehicles to follow in the coming weeks via the brand’s dealership network.

With the introduction of CarPlay Ultra, drivers are offered a fully integrated, intuitive digital experience that connects their iPhone seamlessly with both the infotainment touchscreen and the digital instrument cluster. The technology allows for real-time information display, personalised layout options, and full-screen map and media visualisation, enabling users to tailor their in-car experience with ease.

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Following the debut of the Honda e:N1 in Malaysia, Honda Malaysia has confirmed it will introduce two additional electric vehicles (EVs) within the next three years. While specifics remain undisclosed, all signs point towards a strategic expansion aimed at cementing Honda’s presence in the Malaysian EV landscape.

The e:N1, Honda’s first EV offering in the country, is positioned in the B-segment SUV class, making it a compelling choice for city drivers and compact crossover enthusiasts. However, Honda’s next moves are expected to broaden its EV appeal, likely targeting higher segments with more advanced offerings.

One strong possibility is the introduction of models from Honda’s upcoming 0 Series, a new global EV lineup first revealed at CES 2024. At the forefront of this range is the Honda 0 Series Saloon, a striking fastback concept defined by its low, aerodynamic profile and Honda’s new “Thin, Light, and Wise” design philosophy. This concept signals the company’s future vision for EVs, combining cutting-edge technology, extended driving range, and intelligent driver assistance systems.

Saloon

Should the 0 Series Saloon be adapted for the Malaysian market, even partially, it would likely serve as a flagship model, symbolising Honda’s long-term electrification ambitions with a premium product to rival models such as the Hyundai Ioniq 5, Kia EV6, and Tesla Model Y.

Saloon

Another contender is the Honda 0 Series Space-Hub, previewed alongside the Saloon. Featuring a boxy, upright silhouette and a focus on spacious interiors, the Space-Hub is designed for versatility, potentially catering to urban families, ride-hailing services, or even light commercial logistics.

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In a decisive move to promote road safety and sustainable mobility, Proton has officially launched the Proton Xchange Programme, an initiative encouraging owners of old and unroadworthy vehicles to trade them in for brand-new Proton models, including the highly popular Proton e.MAS 7.

The launch, held at the Proton Centre of Excellence in Subang Jaya, was officiated by the Minister of Transport, YB Anthony Loke Siew Fook, with key Proton figures including Chairman Tan Sri Syed Faisal Albar and Chief Executive Officer Dr Li Chunrong present. The event also welcomed representatives from Car Medic Sdn Bhd, the Road Transport Department Malaysia (JPJ), the Malaysian Institute of Road Safety Research (MIROS), and the Malaysian Automotive Robotics and IoT Institute (MARii).

As part of the initiative, Proton is working in collaboration with Car Medic Sdn Bhd, a Department of Environment (DOE)-certified and JPJ-appointed authorised automotive treatment facility (AATF), to manage the safe deregistration and environmentally responsible disposal of old vehicles. The programme is open to all car brands, not just Proton owners.

To make the programme viable and attractive, Proton has allocated RM4.8 million for the pilot phase, which runs until the end of December 2025. Eligible participants will receive RM2,000 in overtrade support towards the purchase of a new Proton vehicle. This includes the Proton e.MAS 7, which currently holds the title of Malaysia’s best-selling electric vehicle. Loke also stated that eligible participants will receive a one-year free road tax as a contribution from the government towards this initiative. 

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Honda Malaysia has officially introduced its first fully electric vehicle, the e:N1 SUV, marking a pivotal step in the company’s journey towards sustainable mobility and carbon neutrality in the local market. We tested it out a few months ago, which you can read about here, and found it to be impressive in every way.

The e:N1 represents a new chapter in Honda’s electrification strategy, combining cutting-edge battery-electric technology with the marque’s hallmark emphasis on driving enjoyment, innovation, and everyday usability. According to Honda Malaysia, the e:N1 has been carefully engineered to meet the demands of contemporary Malaysian motorists and serves as a foundation for the brand’s broader battery electric vehicle (BEV) plans in the country.

Developed on Honda’s dedicated e:N Architecture F platform, the e:N1 adopts a front-wheel-drive layout designed to deliver responsive acceleration and stable handling. The SUV is powered by a high-output electric motor, producing 201hp and 310Nm of torque. It is paired with a 68.8kWh lithium-ion battery, offering a claimed driving range of up to 412km on the WLTP cycle (500km NEDC), positioning the e:N1 as a practical option for both urban and long-distance driving.

Aesthetically, the e:N1 showcases Honda’s evolving design identity with a sleek, aerodynamic silhouette and contemporary styling cues. Key design elements include full LED headlights, a continuous LED light bar at the rear, and bespoke 18-inch dual-tone alloy wheels exclusive to this model. A new white “H” badge features prominently on the charging port cover, steering wheel, remote key, and centre wheel caps, reinforcing the car’s all-electric credentials. The rear also carries a spread-letter “Honda” emblem, giving the e:N1 a more premium appearance.

Functionality remains a central focus of the e:N1’s design. The SUV supports both AC and DC charging, with the port cleverly integrated into the front fascia for ease of access. A visible charging indicator placed above the grille allows the driver to monitor charging progress at a glance.

Measuring 4,380mm in length with a 2,610mm wheelbase and a height of 1,592mm, the e:N1 slots into the compact SUV segment, offering a blend of urban-friendly proportions and interior space suitable for daily use.

For comfort and practicality, the e:N1 retains HondaŐs signature spaciousness with 60:40 split rear seat configuration and 344 litres of cargo space.

When it comes to the interior, the standout feature is the massive 15.1-inch vertically oriented infotainment screen, which is digitally divided into three sections. This setup works well despite the lack of physical buttons, as all essential functions remain easily accessible with just a touch. For instance, while there are no traditional controls for the air-conditioning, the intuitive layout at the bottom of the screen allows quick and effortless adjustments to temperature and fan speed.

It also includes wireless Apple CarPlay, wired Android Auto connectivity and a Navigation system.

In terms of safety, the e:N1 is equipped with the comprehensive Honda SENSING suite, which includes nine advanced driver assistance systems. These are further supported by Blind Spot Information (BSI) and Cross Traffic Monitor (CTM), both of which work together to improve situational awareness and ensure a safer driving experience. Honda Malaysia reaffirmed that these features reflect its ongoing commitment to customer safety and peace of mind.

To commemorate the launch, the Company is offering a special Price That Drives Excitement at RM149,900.00, available for a limited quantity. The e:N1 comes with an eight-year or 160,000km warranty (whichever comes first) on the electric vehicle battery and electric drive system.

For added peace of mind, the Honda Insurance Plus (HiP EV) package is also available for the e:N1, providing Additional EV Benefits including coverage for damage or injury while using public EV chargers, protection for EV Home wall charger against fire, lightning, theft or natural disasters, coverage for loss or damage to the portable charging cable and personal liability coverage for bodily injury or damage to third-party property arising from the use of the EV home wall charger.

To support the rollout of the new electric SUV, Honda Malaysia has identified eight authorised dealerships across three regions to serve as dedicated hubs for the e:N1. These dealerships have been specially trained to manage customer enquiries, provide test drives, and deliver servicing tailored to the needs of EV owners—facilitating a smoother transition for Malaysians moving from conventional combustion engines to electric mobility.

The launch of the e:N1 not only reinforces Honda Malaysia’s ambition to be at the forefront of electrified transportation, but also aligns with the company’s global and regional objectives in tackling climate change and promoting innovation through sustainable mobility solutions.

Electric vehicle (EV) sales are on track to continue their upward trajectory this year, despite geopolitical uncertainties and the imposition of fresh tariffs by the United States, the International Energy Agency (IEA) revealed in its latest annual report.

According to the agency, electric cars are expected to make up one in every four vehicles sold globally by the end of 2025, a reflection of shifting consumer preferences and the growing appeal of lower long-term operating costs. The IEA highlighted that affordability and advancements in EV technology are accelerating global adoption rates.

Fatih Birol, Director-General of the IEA, noted that electric vehicles are firmly positioned on a global growth path. He forecasted that by 2030, over 40 per cent of global car sales will be electric, signalling a significant transformation in the automotive landscape.

The surge in demand is already evident. In 2024 alone, global EV sales—including plug-in hybrid models—reached over 17 million units, representing an increase of more than 3.5 million from the previous year. The first quarter of 2025 saw sales jump by 35 per cent year-on-year, with full-year figures expected to surpass 20 million units.

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The Cabinet Committee on Road Safety and Congestion (JK-MKKJR) has approved a proposal to establish a dedicated funding mechanism aimed at enhancing road safety, according to Transport Minister Anthony Loke.

Speaking at a press conference following the committee meeting today, Loke revealed that the initiative will involve allocating 50 per cent of revenue collected through fines under the Automated Awareness Safety System (AWAS) to the Ministry of Transport (MOT). The funds will be used to implement key safety measures, including the installation of lighting at accident-prone areas along highways.

“One of the immediate actions we will take is installing lights in accident hotspots,” Loke said. “We hope this creates a more sustainable stream of funding so that we can introduce preventive measures to mitigate road accident risks.”

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