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Volvo EC40 Single-Motor Arrives in Malaysia for 2026 with Lower Price and Fresh Upgrades

Volvo’s first electric-only crossover, the EC40, is getting a new addition to its line-up in Malaysia for the 2026 model year. The single-motor variant is now officially available, priced at RM248,888. That makes it RM40,000 cheaper than the current twin-motor version, while still coming in the fully-loaded Ultra trim.

Powering this new variant is Volvo’s second-generation permanent magnet rear electric motor, developed fully in-house. It produces 238hp, which is enough to send the EC40 from zero to 100 km/h in 7.3 seconds. Energy is supplied by a 70 kWh high-voltage battery, offering up to 488km of range on the WLTP cycle. For charging, the system supports fast DC input, taking the battery from 10% to 80% in just 26 minutes.

A fresh look is also part of the update. A new Sand Dune exterior colour has been added to the palette, first seen on the 2025 EX90. The shade carries a warm metallic tone with glass flakes that shimmer under sunlight, inspired by Sweden’s west coast dunes. Alongside Sand Dune, buyers can also opt for Aurora Silver, Onyx Black, or Crystal White.

Inside, the EC40 continues Volvo’s push for sustainability with a leather-free interior. The cabin is trimmed in Charcoal Connect suede textile and Charcoal Microtech, while new Cutting Edge accents on the dashboard and doors sharpen up the design.

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Proton Opens First Standalone DC Charging Hub in Tanjung Malim

Proton New Energy Technology Sdn Bhd (PRO-NET), a subsidiary of Proton, has launched its first DC Charging Hub at the company’s Tanjung Malim headquarters. The new facility, located at the administration building, is equipped with two DC chargers and four charging bays, providing a total output of 120kW and enabling up to four electric vehicles to charge at the same time.

Unlike earlier setups run through third-party operators, this hub is Proton’s first fully independent charging infrastructure. Managed directly by PRO-NET, it allows the company to control pricing, accessibility, and user experience without relying on external charge point providers.

Importantly, the hub is open to all EV owners regardless of brand, following approval of the ST EVCS License. This inclusivity, PRO-NET says, is intended to encourage more people to switch to electric vehicles while contributing to the development of Malaysia’s charging network.

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Chery Malaysia Prepares to Launch TIGGO 7 and TIGGO 8 Plug-in Hybrids – Bookings Open

Chery Malaysia is gearing up to expand its line-up with the arrival of two new plug-in hybrid SUVs – the TIGGO 7 PHEV and the TIGGO 8 PHEV. Both models will feature the brand’s latest Chery Super Hybrid (CSH) technology, which blends efficiency, performance, and safety in a package designed to appeal to Malaysian drivers.

The timing of these new models fits neatly with the government’s ongoing push for greener mobility, backed by policies such as the New Industrial Master Plan 2030 (NIMP 2030), the National Automotive Policy (NAP), and the National Energy Transition Roadmap (NETR). By introducing these hybrids, Chery is aligning its efforts with the country’s plans to move towards cleaner and more energy-efficient vehicles while encouraging industrial transformation in the automotive sector.

At the heart of both SUVs is Chery’s dedicated hybrid system, which brings together three major components. The first is the latest ACTECO 1.5 TGDi fifth-generation engine, which boasts a thermal efficiency of 44.5%, helping to deliver both fuel savings and strong power.

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Allianz Rolls Out Cash Rewards for Low-Mileage EV Drivers

Allianz General Insurance Company (Malaysia) Berhad has introduced a new way for electric vehicle (EV) owners to turn their green habits into extra cash. Through its newly launched Allianz EV EcoMiles programme, policyholders who drive fewer kilometres in their Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs) will be rewarded with up to 15% of their insurance premiums back in cash.

The programme is available to those who insure their BEVs under the Allianz Private Car Comprehensive policy for private use. Once activated via the MyAllianz app, customers can start earning tangible rewards simply by driving less.

Allianz General’s Chief Executive Officer, Sean Wang, said the idea behind EcoMiles was to back customers who have already made the switch to electric by recognising their eco-friendly driving habits. He explained that driving a BEV is already a step towards lowering carbon emissions, and with EcoMiles, those who use their cars sparingly—whether working from home or just driving on weekends—will be rewarded even more.

The initiative is designed to encourage sustainable lifestyles while giving something back to drivers who contribute to reducing their carbon footprint. According to Allianz, customers driving up to 10,000 kilometres per year will receive 15% of their net basic premium as cash, while those covering between 10,001 and 15,000 kilometres will get 10%. The net basic premium refers to the premium amount after the No Claim Discount (NCD) has been deducted.

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MACC Probes Alleged Irregularities in Malaysia’s Tyre Industry

The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) has launched a probe into possible misconduct within the tyre industry, with investigators said to be looking at issues ranging from suspected price manipulation to the importation of unsafe tyres.

According to a report by Berita Harian, the investigation is centred on the annual import of up to 300 containers of tyres. Some of these tyres are believed to be unsuitable for local road conditions, raising concerns about public safety.

At the heart of the probe is an estimated RM70 million in lost government revenue each year. This shortfall is linked to unpaid import duties, which include a 40% tariff on tyres shipped in from non-Asean Free Trade Area (AFTA) countries and a 10% Sales and Service Tax (SST). Authorities believe roughly 100,000 heavy vehicle tyres brought into Malaysia annually may have bypassed these duties.

When asked about the matter, MACC’s Special Operations Division senior director, Datuk Mohamad Zamri Zainul Abidin, confirmed that the commission is investigating but declined to disclose further details.

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New Porsche 911 GT3 Makes Malaysian Debut at Sepang – 510PS, 450Nm of Torque!

Porsche Malaysia, under Sime Darby Auto Performance, has introduced the new 911 GT3 at the PETRONAS Sepang International Circuit.

At the centre of the car is a naturally aspirated 4.0-litre flat-six engine producing 510PS and 450Nm. The engine has been revised with sharper camshafts, new cylinder heads, optimised throttle valves, and updated cooling. It meets stricter emissions standards with the addition of dual particulate filters and four catalytic converters, but still retains the high-revving character and distinctive sound expected from the GT3.

Acceleration to 100km/h takes 3.4 seconds with the 7-speed PDK gearbox, or 3.9 seconds with the 6-speed manual. Top speed is 311km/h with PDK, 313km/h with the manual.

The 911 GT3 has undergone significant aerodynamic refinements. At the front, a new diffuser, spoiler lip, and underbody fins improve downforce. Matrix LED headlights with integrated light functions allow for larger air intakes. The rear wing has angled sideplates, and the rear diffuser and lid have been reshaped.

Porsche has carried over suspension technology from the GT3 RS, including double-wishbone front axles with teardrop trailing arms that generate downforce while cooling the brakes. An anti-dive system has been introduced to improve stability under hard braking.

The car comes with 20-inch front and 21-inch rear tyres as standard, with optional road-legal track tyres available. Lightweight design remains a priority: the base car weighs 1,420 kg, with weight savings achieved through aluminium wheels, a lithium-ion battery, and optional magnesium wheels in the Weissach or Leichtbau packages.

Two distinct versions are offered. The GT3 retains its fixed rear wing, while the GT3 with Touring package swaps it for a more understated extendable spoiler. The Touring model also gains a leather-trimmed interior and, for the first time, an optional rear seat system.

Both versions can be further customised with the Weissach package for track use, or the Lightweight package for the Touring, which includes CFRP components and magnesium wheels. The Clubsport package, with roll cage and harness, is offered at no extra cost for the winged GT3.

Inside, the GT3 adopts a two-seat layout with sports seats, though new lightweight CFRP bucket seats are available. The cockpit design is familiar from the 911 range but includes GT-specific details such as a rotary ignition switch, Track Screen display mode, and optional roll cage. For drivers planning frequent circuit use, Porsche has added details like removable headrest padding for helmet clearance.

Porsche Design has also created GT3-specific chronographs available exclusively to owners. These watches feature titanium cases, flyback chronograph movements, and design cues drawn directly from the cars, including dials and rotors styled after GT3 instruments and wheels.

The Porsche 911 GT3 and GT3 with Touring package are now available in Malaysia, with prices starting at RM2,290,000.

Touring Package

Malaysia’s New EV Road Tax Kicks In From 2026, Starting at RM20 a Year

From 1 January 2026, electric vehicle (EV) owners in Malaysia will no longer enjoy tax-free motoring. The government has announced that road tax for EVs will be introduced at rates starting as low as RM20 per year, with the highest tier capped at RM850 annually.

The new structure is based on motor output (kW), rather than engine displacement, as applied to internal combustion engine (ICE) cars. By linking road tax directly to motor power, the system indirectly ties in with the price and performance of each EV. Smaller, affordable models will be taxed at the lower end, while high-powered luxury EVs will sit at the top of the scale.

Datuk Shahrol Halmi, President of the Malaysia EV Owners Club, pointed out that the rates are far lower than the pre-2022 formula, which many had feared would return once current exemptions expired. He described the announcement as a welcome surprise, noting that a model like the BYD Atto 2, with a 130kW motor, would only attract an annual road tax of about RM120.

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BYD SEAL 6 EV Makes Global Debut in Malaysia – Pricing Starts from RM100,000!

Malaysia has been chosen as the stage for the world’s first reveal of the BYD SEAL 6 EV, with BYD Sime Motors officially pulling the covers off the new model today. The launch not only introduces a fresh contender in the C-segment sedan market but also highlights Malaysia’s growing importance in BYD’s global strategy.

The SEAL 6 EV arrives as the seventh model in BYD’s local line-up, sitting alongside popular choices like the Dolphin and Atto 3. Unlike its stablemates, the SEAL 6 EV is pitched as a more premium and dynamic sedan, aiming to combine modern design, advanced electric technology and day-to-day usability in a package that should appeal to a wide audience.

In Malaysia, the SEAL 6 is being promoted under the tagline “Precision. Passion. Aligned.” This reflects BYD’s intention to blend performance with refinement.

Two variants will be available locally — Dynamic and Premium. The Premium gets an opening panoramic sunroof with a powered shade, 18-inch wheels on 225/50 Westlake tyres, and a full-width LED strip up front. The Dynamic skips the sunroof, runs on smaller 17-inch alloys with 225/55 tyres, and loses the LED strip.

For the first time, a BYD sedan is fitted with an all-new advanced suspension system featuring a dual ball-joint MacPherson strut at the front and a rear multi-link setup. Together with a rear-wheel drive configuration — rare in this segment — the car promises a sportier, more balanced feel, with improved weight distribution and a turning radius of just 5.5 metres.

The electric motor in the Premium variant delivers 214hp and 330Nm of torque, allowing the sedan to sprint from 0-100km/h in 7.5 seconds. Three driving modes are available, catering for both relaxed and spirited driving. The Dynamic variant produces 127hp and 220Nm of torque. The SEAL 6 features a 56.64 kWh BYD Blade Battery, which boasts an NEDC driving range of 485km.

The battery supports DC fast charging at up to 100 kW, allowing it to go from 30% to 80% in just 23 minutes. For slower charging, the onboard Type 2 AC system tops out at 6.67 kW. On top of that, it also comes with vehicle-to-load (V2L) capability, delivering up to 3.7 kW to power external devices.

At the same time, the SEAL 6 retains a strong emphasis on practicality, offering 24 storage compartments throughout the cabin and a combined cargo capacity of 525 litres.

Inside, the car is designed to rekindle the joy of driving, pairing a quiet cabin with premium comfort features and seamless connectivity. The model is also the largest in its class among C-segment sedans sold in Malaysia, which should translate into generous passenger space.

It has a 12.8-inch intelligent touch screen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, an 8.8-inch digital instrument panel, synthetic leather seats and a wireless phone charger.

Standard safety features include Stop and Go full speed adaptive cruise control, Automatic Emergency Braking, Front Collision Warning, Lane Departure Warning and Intelligent High Beam Control.

Colour choices include Arctic White, Harbour Grey and Misty Blue. The interior comes in a black and grey combination. Pricing starts from RM100,000 for the Dynamic variant and RM115,800 for the Premium.

For early adopters, the first 800 customers will enjoy benefits worth up to RM6,288, depending on the chosen variant and housing type. These include complimentary wall chargers, rebates, or even a 12-month doorstep charging programme tailored for high-rise residents.

All buyers will also receive a V2L adapter, a Type 2 charging cable and a comprehensive warranty package — six years or 150,000 km for the vehicle, plus eight years or 160,000 km coverage for both the drive unit and the Blade battery.

BYD Sime Motors has been expanding rapidly in Malaysia. The brand already operates 37 outlets nationwide and is targeting 50 by the end of 2026. Since its entry into the market, over 20,000 units have been sold, underlining strong customer confidence and growing interest in EVs. With the launch of the SEAL 6 EV, the company expects this momentum to continue.

Bookings for the BYD SEAL 6 EV are now open across BYD showrooms in Malaysia.

Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia Welcomes New CEO, Takashi Sakamaki

Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia (MMM), the official distributor of Mitsubishi vehicles in the country, has announced Takashi Sakamaki as its new Chief Executive Officer, effective immediately. He takes over from Shinya Ikeda, who has helmed the company since October 2021.

Sakamaki is no stranger to the automotive world, bringing with him more than two decades of international experience with Mitsubishi Corporation. Over the years, he has worked extensively in China, Indonesia and Mexico, focusing on business strategy, export operations and market development.

His career has seen him take on senior roles that contributed to Mitsubishi’s global growth, from leading business development to handling CBU exports and strengthening OEM supply with global automakers.

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XPENG Expands Charging Network in Southeast Asia with Charge Plus Partnership

XPENG has announced a major step forward in its charging infrastructure across the Asia-Pacific region. The company’s partnership with Charge Plus will give XPENG drivers access to over 3,800 charging piles in Singapore, Malaysia, and Thailand, as well as stations spanning 5,000km of highways that connect five countries: Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam, and Cambodia.

This marks the first time a Chinese emerging EV brand has collaborated with Charge Plus in Southeast Asia.

Through this cooperation, XPENG vehicles such as the G6, G9, and X9—all of which use an 800V fast-charging platform—will have expanded coverage along key routes, including the entire north-south expressway network in Singapore, Malaysia, and Thailand. In Singapore, the network includes the country’s largest public charging system, which holds more than 30% of the market.

The first XPENG and Charge Plus co-branded charging stations are already operational in major cities across Singapore, Malaysia, and Thailand. XPENG owners using these stations will receive exclusive benefits, including charging discounts by the end of 2025. Real-time station information will also be integrated into XPENG’s in-car displays, allowing drivers to check availability and navigate to stations directly.

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