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Continental has announced that it will discontinue tyre manufacturing operations at its Alor Setar plant in Malaysia by the end of 2025, following a comprehensive business review aimed at safeguarding its competitiveness in the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region.

The Alor Setar facility, which employs approximately 950 people, currently produces passenger car and light truck tyres for the Asia-Pacific market, as well as motorcycle tyres. The company stated that its priority is to support affected employees by offering career counselling and exploring potential employment opportunities both within and outside of Continental.

The decision to close the plant reflects Continental’s strategy to adapt to evolving customer demand, optimise its local product portfolio, and strengthen its manufacturing footprint. Despite the closure, the company reaffirmed its commitment to the Malaysian market, emphasising that long-standing relationships with customers and partners remain central to its operations.

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Isuzu Malaysia has appointed Mr Tomoyuki Yamaguchi as its new Chief Executive Officer, effective 24 April 2025, succeeding Mr Shunsuke Okazoe, who has returned to Japan to assume the role of Vice President, Japan Sales Division at Isuzu Motors Ltd.

With nearly three decades of experience within Isuzu Motors, Mr Yamaguchi brings a wealth of international expertise to his new role. A graduate of Toyo University, he joined the company in 1997 and began his career in the International Operations Department, managing markets such as Russia and Ukraine. His extensive work across the CIS countries and South-West Asia was later complemented by a leadership stint in South Africa, where he played a pivotal role in revitalising Isuzu’s commercial vehicle business.

Upon his arrival in Malaysia, Mr Yamaguchi expressed admiration for the maturity and growth of Isuzu Malaysia, which has achieved a strong market presence within just two decades of incorporation. He commended the company’s loyal customer base and its reputation for delivering durable and capable vehicles.

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Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia (MMM) and authorised dealer Millennium Autohaus Sdn Bhd have officially opened a new Mitsubishi Motors 3S Centre (Sales, Service & Spare Parts) in Kajang, further strengthening the brand’s footprint in the Klang Valley. This latest development brings the number of Mitsubishi 3S centres in the region to 19, underlining the company’s commitment to growth and customer service excellence.

The new showroom is strategically located at Lot 1872A, Jalan Semenyih, Kajang 43500, Selangor, and is well-positioned to serve the growing customer base in Kajang and its surrounding areas. Set on a 15,800 square-foot plot of land, the 9,600 square-foot facility is designed to provide a comprehensive Mitsubishi brand experience, combining both sales and after-sales services under one roof for enhanced convenience.

According to Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia Chief Executive Officer Shinya Ikeda, the opening of the new outlet in Kajang is a reflection of MMM’s ongoing partnership with Millennium Autohaus and their shared dedication to delivering exceptional customer experiences. Ikeda stated that the launch not only strengthens the brand’s presence across the Klang Valley but also affirms Mitsubishi’s focus on meeting customer expectations at every stage of vehicle ownership.

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UMW Toyota Motor Sdn Bhd expanded its Gazoo Racing family today with the launch of two new performance models — the GR Supra Track Edition and the GR Yaris Automatic Variant. Both vehicles brought motorsport engineering and rally-honed capabilities to public roads, further strengthening Toyota’s commitment to delivering exhilarating, driver-centric experiences.

The GR Supra Track Edition continued the brand’s proud four-decade legacy, offering sharper handling, refined chassis control, and purposeful, track-ready styling. Meanwhile, the GR Yaris Automatic Variant introduced a newly developed 8-speed GAZOO Racing Direct Automatic Transmission, broadening the reach of the GR brand to a wider range of enthusiasts without sacrificing its competitive motorsport heritage.

The GR Supra Track Edition stood as the flagship of Toyota’s GR lineup, evolving into an even more focused machine through a series of comprehensive upgrades. Powered by a 3.0-litre inline six-cylinder turbocharged engine producing 388PS and 500Nm of torque, the model was available with a choice of a six-speed manual or an eight-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters. Acceleration figures confirmed its potency, with the automatic variant achieving 0-100 km/h in 4.1 seconds, while the manual version managed the sprint in 4.3 seconds.

Beyond its raw power, the GR Supra Track Edition benefited from significant chassis enhancements. The Adaptive Variable Suspension system was retuned for superior grip, while the Electric Power Steering and Limited Slip Differential received exclusive control mapping for sharper feedback and increased stability at high speeds. Larger 374 mm front brake discs paired with four-piston Brembo callipers provided robust and consistent braking under heavy loads.

Aerodynamic improvements included expanded tyre spats, aero flaps, and a carbon fibre ducktail spoiler, all contributing to greater downforce. Reinforced front control arms, enhanced front negative camber adjustment, stiffened stabiliser bars, and upgraded bushings further refined agility and responsiveness.

The model rode on lightweight 19-inch matte black forged alloy wheels, wrapped in Michelin Pilot Super Sport tyres, engineered to reduce unsprung mass and optimise handling performance. The interior, designed to complement the car’s dynamic nature, featured black Alcantara and leather upholstery with GR embroidery, red seatbelts, and a distinctive red-ring shift knob for manual variants. A 12-speaker JBL HiFi surround system and a full-colour Head-Up Display ensured an immersive driving experience.

Safety remained paramount, with the GR Supra Track Edition equipped with Toyota Supra Safety, which included Pre-Collision Warning, Lane Departure Warning with Steering Assist, Adaptive Cruise Control, Blind Spot Monitor, and intelligent parking sensors with Emergency Braking Support. The GR Supra Track Edition was priced from RM698,000.00.

Alongside it, the GR Yaris Automatic Variant made its debut, marking a significant milestone for the rally-inspired model first launched in 2021. Building on the momentum from the recently introduced facelifted manual variant, the automatic version brought enhanced accessibility without diluting the core performance ethos of the GR brand.

Developed with insights from the Toyota GAZOO Racing World Rally Team, the 8-speed GAZOO Racing Direct Automatic Transmission delivered remarkably swift and precise gear shifts. Unlike conventional automatics that reacted primarily to vehicle movement, this system was engineered to anticipate driver intent, creating a more connected and intuitive driving experience.

The GR Yaris Automatic Variant retained its 1.6-litre three-cylinder turbocharged engine — the most powerful of its kind — producing 300PS and 400Nm of torque. It could sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in just 5.2 seconds. To maintain consistent performance in Malaysia’s demanding climate, the automatic variant came fitted with a standard cooling package, including a sub radiator, an intercooler spray, and a combined water-cooled and air-cooled ATF cooler.

New to the variant was the introduction of Launch Control, designed to optimise engine torque and traction for more aggressive, controlled take-offs. This feature worked in tandem with the newly developed automatic transmission and motorsport-calibrated paddle shifters to deliver a rally-inspired driving experience during everyday use.

Safety technologies were not overlooked. The GR Yaris Automatic Variant featured Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, offering enhanced Pre-Collision Systems, Lane Tracing Assist, Radar Cruise Control, and Expert Mode, providing seasoned drivers with greater dynamic control without entirely disengaging the vehicle’s stability systems. The GR Yaris Automatic Variant was priced at RM325,600.00.

Both the GR Supra Track Edition and GR Yaris Automatic Variant were now available through GR Garage dealerships nationwide, complete with a five-year unlimited mileage warranty and comprehensive aftersales support. GR Garage outlets also stocked a full range of performance parts, GR merchandise, and customer services tailored for performance car enthusiasts.

UMW Toyota Motor reaffirmed that mobility was not solely about speed but about inclusivity and community. Through the introduction of the GR Yaris Automatic and GR Supra Track Edition, Toyota aimed to expand the accessibility of passion-driven motoring experiences. These models symbolised more than engineering achievement; they represented an invitation to join a vibrant community bound by a shared love for driving excellence.

By building vehicles that stirred emotion and cultivated confidence, Toyota was not merely moving people — it was forging communities that inspired one another to strive forward.

In a concerted effort to bolster electric vehicle (EV) adoption and support Malaysia’s transition to low-carbon mobility, BYD Sime Motors has entered into a strategic partnership with the Ministry of Transport (MOT). This collaboration underscores a shared commitment to reducing carbon emissions through the wider use of EVs in both public and private sectors.

The “Jom Pandu BYD Bersama MOT” initiative is a six-month programme designed to offer Ministry personnel an immersive EV driving experience. Backed by Gentari Green Mobility Sdn Bhd—a subsidiary of Gentari Sdn Bhd—two EV chargers have been installed at the MOT headquarters in Putrajaya to support the campaign.

At the official launch ceremony held at the Ministry’s complex, the partnership was inaugurated by Transport Minister YB Loke Siew Fook and Jeffrey Gan, Managing Director for Southeast Asia at Sime Motors. They were joined by Deputy Transport Minister YB Datuk Haji Hasbi Bin Habibollah, MOT Secretary General YBhg. Dato’ Jana Santhiran Muniayan, General Manager of BYD Sime Motors Adeline Lew, and Izuan Hafiz, Head of Green Mobility MY-SG at Gentari.

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In a joint initiative to promote sustainable mobility and enhance operational efficiency, Northport (Malaysia) Bhd and PRO-NET (Proton New Energy Technology Sdn Bhd) have announced the deployment of three Proton e.MAS 7 electric vehicles for use by Northport’s auxiliary police patrol fleet. This move not only sets a new benchmark in green security operations but also positions Northport as the first company—and port operator—in Malaysia to adopt the e.MAS 7 under a fleet arrangement.

As Malaysia’s No.1 electric vehicle model, the Proton e.MAS 7 exemplifies cutting-edge innovation in environmentally responsible transportation. This milestone reinforces Northport’s leadership in ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) practices and commitment to sustainable port operations.

As Proton’s first fully electric SUV, the e.MAS 7 is an ideal fit for Northport’s daily patrol duties. With a smooth and quiet ride, the vehicle helps reduce fatigue for officers during long shifts while lowering noise levels throughout the port. Its fast-charging capabilities ensure minimal downtime, while the energy-efficient powertrain significantly reduces fuel costs and emissions. Fewer moving parts also mean lower maintenance requirements, offering a practical and sustainable solution as Northport continues its transition to cleaner technologies.

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Chinese New Energy Vehicle (NEV) pioneer Leapmotor has embarked on a bold 6,000-kilometre expedition from Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, all the way to Johor, Malaysia, showcasing its latest innovations in electric mobility. The journey, marking Leapmotor’s growing presence in the ASEAN region, highlights the brand’s commitment to intelligent, efficient and long-range electric vehicles.

Led by the company’s latest Range Extender Electric Vehicle (REEV) models, the ASEAN Expedition Drive features three newly developed SUVs: the C10 REEV, the stylish C11 REEV, and the versatile six-seater C16 REEV. These models, combining high efficiency with advanced technology, are set to make a strong impression on Malaysian roads as they pass through key cities from Penang to Johor during the final stretch of the expedition.

One of the standout vehicles of the journey is the Leapmotor C10 REEV, a completely different offering from the all-electric C10 variant already available locally. This REEV version features a 1.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine, functioning as a generator to recharge a 28.4kWh battery pack, and paired with a 158kW electric motor. The result is a combined driving range of up to 1,150km (NEDC), making the C10 REEV ideal for long-distance travel without compromising on energy efficiency.

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The Isuzu D-Max continues to solidify its position as one of Malaysia’s top-performing pick-up trucks in 2025, with its reputation for reliability, fuel efficiency, and robust performance driving it to unprecedented heights. In the first quarter of the year, Isuzu Malaysia captured a record 18.3 per cent share of the national pick-up truck segment, a marked increase from the 14.0 per cent achieved during the same period in 2024.

This performance has propelled the D-Max into second place overall in Malaysia’s competitive pick-up market, making it one of the most sought-after choices among both urban and rural buyers. The surge in demand comes despite growing public scepticism towards diesel vehicles, largely triggered by a recent spike in diesel fuel prices across Peninsular Malaysia.

According to Kenkichi Sogo, Chief Operating Officer of Isuzu Malaysia, the company is witnessing a significant shift in buyer perception. Consumers, he said, are increasingly recognising the D-Max’s versatility, dependability, and affordability, particularly in times of rising living costs. Sogo emphasised that the D-Max offers not just impressive capabilities for both work and leisure, but also extremely low running costs and a road tax of under RM400 annually in Peninsular Malaysia—making it a financially prudent choice.

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Nizra Group has taken a significant step forward in redefining Malaysia’s mobility landscape with the grand opening of the MG Nizra Damansara 3S Showroom. The launch marks a pivotal milestone in the Group’s expansion into the automotive sector, showcasing its strong commitment to electric mobility, lifestyle integration, and customer-centric experiences.

Held at The Nizra Building, the event was attended by key figures including Nik Iruwan Dato’ Nik Izani, Group CEO of Nizra Group Berhad; Mr. Lee Wen Hsiang, COO of SAIC Malaysia; Mr. Liu Dong, Sales & Marketing Director of SAIC Malaysia; and Encik Hurais bin Dato’ Hanafiah, Director of Nizra Mobility.

A Comprehensive 3S Facility

The new showroom offers a full Sales, Service, and Spare Parts (3S) experience, complete with state-of-the-art service bays, dedicated consultation areas, and a customer-centric lounge designed for comfort and convenience. Demonstrating its alignment with the electric future, the facility is also equipped with DC fast-charging infrastructure, ensuring MG EV owners and prospects have access to rapid and reliable charging on-site.

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Great Wall Motor (GWM) Malaysia is preparing to introduce the all-new GWM Tank 500 to the local market, positioning it as a formidable contender in the premium SUV segment. Expected to arrive with a price tag below RM350,000, the Tank 500 will be offered exclusively as a hybrid electric vehicle (HEV), pairing powerful off-road capabilities with refined luxury and advanced technology.

The Tank 500 is designed to cater to discerning buyers who demand both rugged performance and premium comfort, while also embracing electrified motoring. As a full-size SUV, it boasts commanding road presence with substantial dimensions, measuring 5,078 mm in length, 1,934 mm in width, and 1,905 mm in height, riding on a 2,850 mm wheelbase, making it slightly bigger than a Land Cruiser.

Its exterior design balances muscularity with sophistication, featuring automatic LED headlights with daytime running lights and fog lamps, large 20-inch alloy wheels, a panoramic sunroof, roof rails, a powered tailgate, and power-retractable side steps. Buyers will be able to choose from three exterior finishes—Crystal Gray, Hamilton White, and Sun Black.

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