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Michelin Malaysia has introduced the Michelin Primacy 5 for passenger cars and crossovers of all engine types, emphasising its tagline, “Confidence Made to Last.” As a significant upgrade over its predecessor, the Michelin Primacy 4, this new model incorporates key innovations that enhance performance while reducing environmental impact.

Prichapakorn Dangrojana, Managing Director of Michelin Malaysia, Singapore, and Brunei, highlighted the tyre’s improved durability and efficiency, particularly in response to the increasing demands of modern vehicles, including hybrid and electric models. He explained that these vehicles exert greater stress on tyres due to their higher horsepower and weight, necessitating a tyre that delivers extended wear life, reduced rolling resistance, and sustained wet grip performance.

Michelin’s commitment to innovation is evident in the Primacy 5, which has been specifically designed to meet the evolving needs of Malaysian motorists. With a growing preference for larger SUVs and electric vehicles in the region, Dangrojana emphasised that the new tyre offers superior value by providing enhanced safety, longevity, and a quieter driving experience.

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Proton’s sales surged in February 2025, marking a 13.2% increase compared to the previous month. The national automaker sold 11,232 units, capturing an estimated 17.2% market share from a forecasted Total Industry Volume (TIV) of 65,276 units. The rebound comes as car buyers returned to the market following a slow start to the year.

Three Proton Models Dominate YTD Sales

Despite its growing presence in the EV segment, Proton remains committed to its internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, with three models leading their respective segments in Year-To-Date (YTD) sales:

  • Proton S70 – The best-selling C-segment sedan in Malaysia, recording 2,340 units sold in 2025. Its mix of performance, spaciousness, connectivity, and value has helped it dominate the segment for two consecutive months.

  • Proton X50 – Proton’s B-segment SUV powerhouse continues its dominance, with 1,824 units sold in February and 3,259 units YTD. Having sold nearly 130,000 units since its 2020 launch, the X50 remains a favorite among Malaysian buyers.

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AirAsia has announced that it will move all its domestic flight operations from Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah Airport (Subang Airport) to Kuala Lumpur International Airport Terminal 2 (KLIA T2), effective 7 April 2025.

According to an official statement, this strategic move aims to enhance operational efficiency and elevate the overall passenger experience, in response to growing demand across key domestic routes.

Passenger traffic between Kuala Lumpur and major destinations such as Kota Kinabalu and Kuching has surged, recording a 16% year-on-year increase. By consolidating operations at KLIA T2, AirAsia is positioning itself to better manage this growth and ensure smoother, more efficient services for travellers.

Since resuming services from Subang Airport in August 2023, AirAsia has been closely monitoring passenger trends and operational logistics. After careful analysis, the airline concluded that KLIA T2 provides a stronger long-term platform to support future growth, particularly with its capacity, infrastructure, and connectivity.

While Subang Airport remains a convenient option for passengers—especially those travelling to and from Kuala Lumpur city centre—the airport’s ongoing redevelopment efforts mean that substantial upgrades will take time before they can fully support AirAsia’s expansion needs.

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Chinese automaker JAC Motors has officially launched its T9 range of pickup trucks in Malaysia, marking the brand’s entry into the local market with both internal combustion engine (ICE) and fully electric (BEV) variants. This milestone follows the company’s previously announced investment plans, which aim to position Malaysia as a key hub for the production and export of commercial vehicles to the ASEAN region.

Founded in 1964, JAC Motors — also known as Jianghuai Automobile Co., Ltd. — is a state-owned Chinese manufacturer specialising in commercial vehicles, SUVs, and electric vehicles. The company is recognised as one of China’s leading automotive brands, with a diverse product portfolio that extends from passenger cars to light and heavy-duty trucks.

In 2024, Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz revealed JAC Motors’ entry into Malaysia, highlighting that the investment would create high-skilled jobs and enhance local capabilities in producing electric and hybrid pickup trucks and commercial vehicles. Zafrul also confirmed that JAC’s presence is expected to strengthen Malaysia’s automotive supply chain and bolster the nation’s commercial vehicle industry. However, the specific location for local assembly (CKD) operations has not been disclosed.

Leading JAC’s product debut in Malaysia is the T9 double-cab pickup truck, which is positioned to compete against established players in the segment, such as the Ford Ranger Wildtrak. The T9 arrives as a fully imported (CBU) model from China. While the current models are imported, plans are underway to begin local assembly in the future.

The diesel-powered JAC T9 is built on a ladder-frame chassis and features a robust double-cab design. Measuring 5,330 mm in length, 1,965 mm in width, and 1,920 mm in height with a 3,110 mm wheelbase, the T9 offers a kerb weight of 2,055 kg. The pickup provides a payload capacity of 1,000 kg and a towing capability of up to 3,500 kg. The cargo tray measures 1,520 mm long, 1,590 mm wide, and 470 mm tall, while the approach and departure angles are rated at 27 degrees and 23 degrees respectively. Ground clearance stands at 210 mm, and the vehicle boasts a water wading depth of 800 mm.

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Bermaz Xpeng Sdn Bhd, the exclusive distributor of the XPENG brand in Malaysia, has officially launched its latest flagship model, the XPENG X9 Ultra Smart Large Seven-Seater. Priced from RM269,888.00, the X9 is now open for bookings, offering a revolutionary blend of cutting-edge technology, versatility, and luxury that sets a new benchmark in the MPV segment.

Built on XPENG’s advanced SEPA 2.0 architecture, the X9 combines groundbreaking innovations in design, intelligence, space, handling, and safety. It is designed to cater to the needs of modern families and individuals, offering a seamless blend of practicality and sophistication.

The XPENG X9 boasts a futuristic yet practical design, blending sleek aesthetics with advanced technology. Its streamlined silhouette, flowing lines, and distinctive “Starship” frame create a bold statement of modern elegance.

The front fascia features XPENG’s signature “Robot Face” design, highlighted by a seamless horizontal daytime running light that visually extends the vehicle’s width. A crystal grille with a layered design, paired with an Active Grille Shutter (AGS) system, enhances aerodynamics for improved efficiency and performance.

The X9’s youthful and dynamic look is further emphasised by a sharply angled A-pillar, floating roof, and expansive side windows. A 23˚ coupé-style rear windshield ensures a smooth ride, while a continuous tail light bar enhances both style and visibility.

Step inside the X9, and you’re greeted by a luxurious interior inspired by a starship cockpit. The all-in-one center console offers an intelligent and immersive driving experience, complemented by premium materials such as wood veneer and aluminum air vents for a modern, minimalist aesthetic.

The X9 features a 21.4-inch entertainment screen, customisable ambient lighting, and an advanced air purification system to create a comfortable atmosphere. For audiophiles, the 23-speaker X-Opera Sound System delivers concert-like audio quality.

Designed to meet the needs of both individual and family travel, the X9 can be configured from a spacious 7-seater to an ultra-spacious 4-seater with a single click, thanks to its electrically folding third-row seats. This expands the boot volume from 755 litres to an impressive 2,554 litres, making it ideal for everything from transporting furniture to accommodating a dozen 20-inch suitcases.

Additional interior highlights include ergonomic Zero Gravity seats, an electric third-row adjustment system, a built-in massage function, and a smart refrigerator, ensuring ultimate comfort and convenience for family trips.

The XPENG X9 introduces a world-first active rear-wheel steering system, paired with an intelligent dual-chamber air suspension. This combination enables an impressively tight 5.4m turning diameter, allowing the X9 to navigate tight parking spaces and congested streets with the agility of a much smaller car.

The suspension system automatically adjusts spring stiffness based on road conditions, ensuring a smooth and comfortable driving experience in any environment.

The X9 is built on XPENG’s SEPA 2.0 architecture, featuring an 800V high-voltage silicon carbide (SiC) platform for ultra-fast DC charging. The Standard Range 2WD Pro variant comes with an 84.5 kWh LFP battery, offering up to 500 km of range, 450 Nm of torque, and 315 hp. The Long Range variants feature a larger 101.5 kWh NMC battery, extending the range to 590 km with the same power output.

With cutting-edge energy optimisation and thermal management, the X9 supports rapid charging, with DC charging capacities of up to 317 kW. This enables a 10-80% charge in just 20 minutes, making it one of the fastest-charging MPVs in its class.

Safety is a top priority for the X9, which features a front and rear-integrated die-cast aluminum body structure—a world-first for a 7-seater BEV MPV. This enhances both safety and durability.

The X9 is equipped with the XPILOT 2.5 system, offering a comprehensive suite of safety features. Standard safety includes six airbags and an electronic child lock, while advanced driver assistance utilises high-definition radar, ultrasonic sensors, and a 360˚ HD camera powered by the Nvidia Orin-X chipset.

Key XPILOT features include Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with Stop & Go, Lane Centering Control (LCC), Adaptive Turning Cruise (ATC), Intelligent Speed Limit Assist (SAS) and Active Lane Change (ALC). For parking, the X9 offers Enhanced Auto Parking Assist (EAP 2.0), Auto Exit Parking Assist (AEP), and Straight Summon, all accessible via the XPENG mobile app.

The XPENG X9 is available in three striking exterior colours: Nebula White, Crescent Silver, and Dark Night Black. Inside, customers can choose between two elegant interior colour options: Starry Night Black and Moon Shadow Brown.

The Standard Range 2WD Pro and Long Range 2WD Pro variants feature leatherette upholstery, while the Long Range 2WD Pro Plus elevates luxury with full-grain Nappa leather Zero Gravity Seats.

Pricing starts at RM269,888 for the standard range 2WD Pro, RM287,888 for the Long Range 2WD Pro and RM299,888 for the Long Range 2WD Pro Plus.

The XPENG X9 comes with a 5-Year Manufacturer Warranty (or 120,000 km, whichever comes first) and 5-Years Free Service and Maintenance (or 100,000 km, whichever comes first). Additionally, it includes an 8-Year High Voltage Battery Pack Warranty with a 160,000 km mileage limit, ensuring long-term reliability and performance.

The XPENG X9 Ultra Smart Large Seven-Seater is more than just an MPV—it’s a testament to XPENG’s commitment to innovation, performance, and luxury. With its futuristic design, advanced technology, and unparalleled versatility, the X9 is set to redefine the MPV segment in Malaysia.

For those seeking a vehicle that combines cutting-edge technology with family-friendly practicality, the XPENG X9 is now available for booking at your nearest XPENG showroom.

Visitors heading to Merdeka 118 can now enjoy smoother, more efficient access with the official opening of the Belfield Tunnel. Developed by PNB Merdeka Ventures Sdn Berhad (PMVSB), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Permodalan Nasional Berhad (PNB), the new tunnel is set to significantly improve connectivity to Menara Merdeka 118, the world’s second-tallest tower, while helping to alleviate congestion on key roads in Kuala Lumpur’s city centre.

Stretching just over one kilometre, the Belfield Tunnel is Malaysia’s second double-storey tunnel, designed exclusively for vehicles entering and exiting the Merdeka 118 precinct. By providing an alternative route, the tunnel aims to streamline traffic flow and ease congestion in surrounding areas.

“We are pleased to open the Belfield Tunnel, a vital link that will make visiting Merdeka 118 and its surrounding landmarks, including Stadium Merdeka, more convenient than ever,” said Dato’ Tengku Ab. Aziz Tengku Mahmud, CEO of PMVSB. “Our goal is to offer a seamless and stress-free journey into the city, ensuring easier access for everyone. With parking facilities for up to 8,000 cars, we look forward to welcoming visitors from all walks of life—whether they are business professionals, shoppers, or tourists—to experience all that Merdeka 118 has to offer once fully open.”

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PRO-NET, a subsidiary of national carmaker Proton, has marked a significant achievement with the delivery of its 1,000th unit of the e.MAS 7, the brand’s first-ever electric vehicle (EV). This milestone underscores the growing momentum of EV adoption in Malaysia and highlights Proton’s dedication to making electric mobility accessible to a wider audience.

The e.MAS 7 has seen an enthusiastic reception from Malaysian consumers, reflecting the strong trust placed in Proton’s vision for sustainable transportation. Since its official launch by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, the e.MAS 7 has gained popularity across a broad range of customer segments, signaling increased confidence in EVs as a practical and future-ready choice.

Beyond delivering vehicles, PRO-NET has focused on creating a smooth and convenient transition to electric mobility. The appeal of the e.MAS 7 lies in its combination of affordability, practicality, and a comprehensive support ecosystem that assists owners throughout their EV journey. Key components of this ecosystem include the Live Integrated Charging Map, which provides real-time access to over 2,000 charging points across the country, as well as accessible charging infrastructure and a suite of advanced safety and connectivity features. These elements ensure that e.MAS 7 owners can embrace electric driving with confidence and ease.

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Volvo Car Malaysia has officially confirmed the upcoming arrival of two highly anticipated models for fans of its flagship seven-seater SUVs. The fully electric Volvo EX90 and the newly facelifted Volvo XC90 are both set to enter the Malaysian market, with official launch dates to be announced soon through the brand’s website.

The Volvo EX90, first revealed globally in 2022, marks a significant milestone for the company as its most advanced and safest vehicle to date. Designed to prevent accidents rather than simply mitigate them, the EX90 features cutting-edge active safety technologies both inside and outside the vehicle. This flagship SUV is the first Volvo model equipped with lidar technology, as well as the first to incorporate the Volvo Cars Superset core computing system. Additionally, the EX90 has been engineered with hardware designed to support future fully autonomous driving capabilities.

Global deliveries of the EX90 began in late 2024, and Malaysia will be among the first markets in the Asia Pacific region to introduce the model, following its launch in Thailand. The EX90 will lead Volvo’s growing lineup of fully electric vehicles, which already includes the EX30, XC40 Recharge Pure Electric, and EC40 (formerly known as the C40 Recharge Pure Electric).

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TC Subaru Sdn Bhd, the exclusive distributor of Subaru vehicles in Malaysia, has launched its special Raya campaign, “Raya Bersama Selamat Sentiasa,” which runs from 2 March to 30 April 2025. This festive initiative focuses on promoting safety and togetherness, offering customers attractive deals on new vehicles and comprehensive aftersales promotions ahead of the balik kampung season.

In conjunction with the upcoming Hari Raya celebrations, Subaru Malaysia is offering substantial savings on some of its most popular models. Customers purchasing the Subaru XV can enjoy combined perks and savings of over RM38,000, which include discounts of up to RM29,000, a complimentary security tint, and a five-year comprehensive service package. Meanwhile, the Subaru Forester is also available with combined savings exceeding RM36,000, featuring discounts of up to RM28,000, a complimentary HD dash cam worth RM1,450, and a five-year comprehensive service package.

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Honda Malaysia has unveiled its strategic vision for 2025, targeting sales of 83,000 units and a 10.6% market share. This ambitious goal is supported by the introduction of three new models, including the New Civic launched in January, as well as various brand initiatives to strengthen market engagement.

The company remains optimistic about sustained demand for its existing lineup, reinforcing its market leadership in the Non-National Passenger Vehicle Segment. Honda Malaysia also sees continued relevance in internal combustion engine (ICE) and e:HEV (hybrid) technologies, citing infrastructure readiness, consumer preferences, and technological advancements as key factors. Notably, Honda e:HEV models accounted for nearly 30% of Malaysia’s total hybrid car sales in 2024, reflecting growing acceptance of Honda’s hybrid technology.

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