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In a strategic move to bolster its electric vehicle offerings, Toyota unveils the 2025 Crown Signia, a groundbreaking hybrid-electric SUV. Joining the ranks alongside the Crown sedan, this latest addition reaffirms Toyota’s commitment to innovation in the automotive landscape.

The heart of the 2025 Crown Signia lies in Toyota’s Hybrid Electric Vehicle system, harmonising a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine with two electric motors. With driving modes encompassing Eco, Normal, and Sport, drivers can tailor their experience, optimising either battery range and fuel efficiency or enjoying a more spirited drive. An additional EV Mode allows for emissions-free short-distance travel at low speeds.

Generating a robust 243hp, this hybrid marvel achieves an impressive 60km per gallon combined. The electric all-wheel-drive system, featuring a rear-mounted motor, becomes a standard feature, ensuring optimal traction and performance. Towing capabilities of up to 1225kg adds a practical dimension to the Crown Signia’s repertoire, complemented by a seamlessly integrated continuously variable transmission.

Inside the cabin, drivers are greeted by a sophisticated ambience, with a 12.3-inch customisable digital instrument cluster providing essential information. A companion 12.3-inch infotainment screen graces the dashboard, creating a hub of connectivity and entertainment. Standard features include eight-way power-adjustable driver and passenger seats, a vertical wireless charger, and multiple USB-C ports.

Passenger comfort receives meticulous attention, with rear-seat amenities comprising two USB ports, dedicated air vents, cup holders, and seatback pockets. Optional heated and ventilated seats elevate the luxury quotient, ensuring a pleasurable journey for all occupants.

Offered in two distinct trims – XLE and Limited – the Crown Signia caters to various tastes. The XLE, riding on multi-spoke 19-inch alloys, features fabric and SofTex-trimmed seats. In contrast, the Limited boasts larger 21-inch dark gray metallic alloy wheels and double-stitched leather-trimmed seats.

The interior showcases a refined touch, with bronze-finished trim adorning the dashboard, steering wheel, and center console. Audio experiences differ between trims, with the XLE equipped with a six-speaker sound system and the Limited boasting an 11-speaker JBL Premium setup with a subwoofer.

Toyota’s unwavering commitment to safety is evident in the inclusion of Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 as a standard feature. This suite encompasses pre-collision capabilities, lane departure alert with steering assistance, full-speed range dynamic radar cruise control, road sign assistance, automatic high beams, and more. The Limited trim offers an Advanced Technology Package, incorporating lane change assist and a panoramic view monitor for enhanced safety awareness.

Pricing details will be unveiled closer to the official on-sale date, further solidifying Toyota’s position as a frontrunner in the electric vehicle market.

Toyota has taken the wraps off the 2025 Toyota Camry, marking the dawn of its ninth generation. This latest iteration, exclusively available as a hybrid, introduces diverse options, including front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) configurations, coupled with distinct trims – LE, SE, XLE, and XSE.

The FWD version combines a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine with two electric motors, delivering a total output of 225hp. Opting for AWD introduces a third motor-generator on the rear axle, elevating the power to an impressive 232hp. Both setups feature an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission (eCVT) and a lithium-ion battery, with specific details on the battery capacity set to be revealed closer to the launch.

Built on the reliable TNGA-K platform, the 2025 Camry refines its suspension with new shocks and adjusted tuning, promising heightened responsiveness and agile handling.

Maintaining its iconic silhouette, the design features a prominent lower front grille and sleek headlights. Standard LED headlamps, running lights, and taillights add a modern touch. New colour options include Ocean Gem and Heavy Metal, complementing the existing palette. The XSE model stands out with a body-colour lower fascia, trunk black trim, and distinctive 19-inch wheels. Internally, a 7.0-inch digital instrument cluster and an 8.0-inch infotainment screen (12.3 inches for XLE and XSE) promise a futuristic driving experience, featuring wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support.

The Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 suite takes center stage, featuring a pre-collision system, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure assist, road sign assist, automatic high beams, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. Opting for XLE and XSE unlocks the Premium Plus Package, introducing advanced safety features and parking assistance.

The 2025 Camry is expected to hit U.S. markets in March 2024, with pricing details yet to be disclosed.

The Malaysian launch remains undisclosed, leaving the fate of the Toyota Camry in Malaysia uncertain, particularly following the discontinuation of the Honda Accord in the region. Confirmation of the 2025 Camry’s entry into the Malaysian market is eagerly awaited. Back in March of this year, it was reported that by year’s end, Toyota would discontinue the Camry sedan’s 43-year run of sales in Japan.

Honda Malaysia has officially initiated bookings for its highly anticipated SUV, the 6th Generation all-new Comfortable Runabout Vehicle (CR-V). With plans to wrap up 2023 on a high note, the official launch of the CR-V is scheduled for December 2023. The CR-V, a model with a 20-year history, holds the distinction of being the first Completely Knocked-Down (CKD) model produced at Honda Malaysia’s Melaka manufacturing plant in 2003.

To date, the CR-V has exceeded 129,000 units in sales, solidifying its status as one of Honda Malaysia’s top-selling models. The new CR-V introduces a modern design concept that combines refined elegance with a sophisticated appearance, embodying Honda’s design language. The e:HEV RS variant, in particular, boasts a premium feel with distinct styling, featuring a bold Mesh Pattern Front Grille, Full LED Headlights and Tail-Lights, LED Front Fog Lights, and Front LED Sequential Turn Signals. Sleek door handles and Berlina Black 18-inch Alloy Wheels further contribute to its modern and stylish profile.

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In a bizarre and unprecedented incident, a routine transatlantic flight turned into an extraordinary situation when a horse on board a Boeing 747 became loose in the cargo hold. The flight, operated by Air Atlanta Icelandic and departing from New York’s JFK airport with its destination set for Liege, Belgium, took an unexpected turn shortly after takeoff.

Around 31,000 feet in the air, the flight crew discovered that the horse, presumably a part of the cargo, had become unrestrained. Faced with the challenge of securing the large animal mid-flight, the pilots made the crucial decision to divert the aircraft back to JFK.

The pilot communicated the situation to air traffic control, requesting permission to return to New York as attempts to secure the loose horse in the cargo hold proved unsuccessful. Given the potential safety risks and the crew’s inability to manage the situation during the flight, the decision was made to prioritise the safety of all on board and return to JFK.

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Jaguar Land Rover Malaysia (JLRM) has once again clinched the prestigious Retailer of the Year (Asia Pacific) award at the Jaguar Land Rover Retailer Awards 2022/2023. This marks the third consecutive year and the fourth time overall that JLRM has received this esteemed recognition.

The Retailer of the Year Award, presented annually, acknowledges top Jaguar Land Rover retailers across the Asia Pacific region. It serves as a benchmark for retailers, setting high standards for delivering exceptional retail customer experiences. Nominees undergo evaluation based on specific performance criteria in marketing, sales, customer service, staff training, and retailer presentation.

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BYD is gearing up to reveal its latest addition to the family of battery-electric vehicles, the Sea Lion 07. The unveiling is scheduled for November 17 at the Guangzhou Auto Show in China. Teasers in the form of sketches suggest that the Sea Lion 07 will join BYD’s ‘Ocean’ series, which already features models like the Seal, Dolphin, and Seagull.

Design cues for the Sea Lion 07 seem to draw inspiration from BYD’s Ocean-X sedan concept. Led by former Audi and Lamborghini designer Wolfgang Egger, the Sea Lion exhibits a compact SUV design, distinguishing itself from its predecessors like the Seal SUV. The front showcases sharp LED headlights and daytime running lights, contributing to a more aggressive look with angular air intakes.

A side sketch of the Sea Lion 07 reveals a coupe SUV silhouette, marked by dramatic curves and creases along the doors. While reminiscent of the Cupra Formentor, the BYD model positions its cabin farther forward. The rear design features aggressive elements with sharp edges and angular LED taillights, akin to the Atto 3.

Technical specifications are yet to be disclosed, leaving enthusiasts curious about its capabilities. However, early estimations suggest a starting price of around 190,000 yuan (RM122k). Closer to home, from the ‘Ocean’ lineup, we have the BYD Dolphin from RM99,900. Click here to find out why it should be your first EV.

In a strange turn of events, Lukasz Krupski, once hailed as a hero at Tesla for his courageous actions during a Model 3 fire incident, has found himself at the centre of controversy. Krupski, who saved the day in 2019, suffered a change in fortune after raising safety concerns within the company.

Following the fire incident, Krupski communicated directly with CEO Elon Musk, highlighting safety lapses at Tesla’s Norwegian operation. Despite Musk’s initial response of addressing any necessary actions, Krupski faced resistance from his immediate superiors and co-workers, claiming he was informed about having no future at Tesla. Allegedly, he was even threatened by a colleague.

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The highly regarded Porsche Turbo range, which is already known for its high performance, will get a little more exclusivity with the launch of the brand-new “Turbonite” badge and related design upgrades.

While the classic crest receives an update across regular models, Turbo variants will be adorned with the distinguished Turbonite badge. Departing from the traditional golden hue, this badge boasts a sophisticated blend of black and an “elegant metallic grey tone,” adding an extra layer of prestige to the Turbo lineup.

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Geely’s new electric sedan, the Galaxy E8, has been fully unveiled before pre-sales starting on November 17 at the Guangzhou Auto Show.

Built on Geely’s Sustainable Experience Architecture (SEA) platform, the Galaxy E8 measures 5,010mm in length, 1,920mm in width, and 1,465mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,925mm. For comparison, the Tesla Model S measures 4,978mm in length, 1,964mm in width and 1,445mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,960mm. The Galaxy E8 boasts a sleek design with a drag coefficient of just 0.199 while the Model S only has a drag coefficient of 0.208.

The front end features sharp headlights and DRLs, lacking a traditional grille. The sides are clean and aerodynamic, with pop-out door handles. Geely achieved the low drag coefficient without using door-mounted rear-facing cameras, opting for traditional wing mirrors.

The rear end is characterised by an LED light bar and intricate taillights. The interior includes an 8K resolution 45-inch display across the dashboard, a flat-bottom, and flat-top steering wheel, a simple centre console with buttons, a round dial, a wireless charging pad, and a panoramic sunroof.

The Galaxy E8 offers two 400-volt versions: one with a 62kWh LFP battery, a 272hp rear electric motor, and 550km of range; and another with a larger 76kWh battery pack, providing 665km of range. There is also an 800-volt version with a 224hp front motor, a 421hp rear motor, and a 76kWh pack, offering 665km of range.

Pre-sales for the model are scheduled to begin this month, with manufacturing beginning in the first quarter of 2024 and deliveries beginning in the second.

The Jakarta-Bandung Fast Train, Whoosh, achieved a record-breaking milestone, transporting 21,312 passengers through 36 schedules, consisting of 28 regular trips and eight additional trips.

This figure marked the highest passenger count since Whoosh’s operation commenced in October 2023. The previous record was set on November 11, with 20,000 passengers, and November 4, with 18,000 passengers.

According to Antara, compared to the previous week, the number of passengers increased by 18 per cent, or 3,259, and the number of trips increased by 12 per cent, from 32 trips on November 4 to 36 trips on November 11.

Eva Chairunisa, Kereta Cepat Indonesia China (KCIC) General Manager Corporate Secretary, highlighted that the surge in passenger numbers was in tandem with the increased number of weekend trips. The Whoosh fast train has become the preferred choice for the public travelling between Bandung and Jakarta, she added.

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