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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.

On its journey toward the Neue Klasse era, the BMW Group presented the innovations of its next-generation vehicles at Auto Shanghai 2025.

“Innovative strength, a pioneering spirit, and sheer driving pleasure — these traits are deeply rooted in BMW’s DNA,” said Oliver Zipse, Chairman of the Board of Management of BMW AG. “With the Neue Klasse, our customers experience them on an entirely new level: a more intuitive user interface, even more progressive design, and a driving experience that is more precise and dynamic than ever. By the end of this year, we will put the mobility of the future on the road.”

At the heart of BMW’s presentation were two key innovations: the BMW Panoramic iDrive smart display and operating system, and the lightning-fast Heart of Joy central computer.

BMW introduced the Panoramic iDrive in a version developed specifically for the Chinese market. In collaboration with local technology partners, BMW tailored its Operating System X to Chinese users, offering exclusive digital functions available only in China.

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We just witnessed the global unveiling of the Omoda 3, a sporty-looking compact crossover that will be positioned below the Omoda 5 and Omoda 7. Depending on the market, the crossover may also be called the Omoda C3, similar to how the Omoda 5 and 7 are referred to as the C5 and C7, respectively.

As you can see from its striking and angular design, the Omoda 3 is clearly aimed at younger buyers, as stated by brand director Roy Xie. In fact, the car was designed by a team of designers with an average age of just 28 years.

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We have seen the Jaecoo J5, a compact SUV aimed at the ever-competitive segment populated by the likes of Honda HR-V, Toyota Corolla Cross and the Proton X50. This time, however, at the Auto Shanghai 2025 we are looking at the Jaecoo J5 EV, the fully-electric version capable of up to 470km driving range.

The zero-emissions version gets a slightly different look compared to the regular petrol sibling, especially from the front. The waterfall grille is gone, replaced by a transparent strip connecting the two LED headlights, with “JAECOO” lettering. Lower down at the bumper, there are some perforated body panels and intakes with square pins. Overall, the J5 EV has a cleaner look compared to the J5.

By the side, you don’t get the blacked-out A-pillars like on the bigger J7, but you do however, still get a floating roof effect with the blacked-out D-pillars. There’s also conventional door handles rather than flush pop-out ones, and you get a full-width tail-light strip, a rear spoiler, and a plastic diffuser.

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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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Geely has displayed its latest petrol-electric hybrid SUV, the Galaxy Starship 7 EM-i, at Auto Shanghai 2025, marking the public appearance of a model that could soon carry Proton branding in Malaysia as the e.MAS 7 PHEV.

Positioned as a hybrid counterpart to the fully electric Galaxy E5—sold in Malaysia as the Proton e.MAS 7—the Galaxy Starship 7 introduces Geely’s second-generation NordThor 2.0 plug-in hybrid system. This new powertrain is a refined version of the EM-P system also used by Lynk & Co and incorporates significant enhancements in efficiency and performance.

In terms of dimensions, the Galaxy Starship 7 measures 4,740mm in length, 1,905mm in width and 1,685mm in height, with a 2,755mm wheelbase. These figures make it marginally larger than the Galaxy E5.

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Following its appearance at the 2025 Bangkok International Motor Show, the Geely Xingyuan—also known under the Geome sub-brand—has made its way to China’s premier automotive event, Auto Shanghai 2025. Displayed alongside Geely’s high-tech Galaxy Cruiser SUV prototype, the compact electric vehicle (EV) has reignited speculation about its potential rebadging and entry into the Malaysian market under the Proton badge as the e.MAS 5.

If confirmed, the Xingyuan would become the second model in Proton’s e.MAS series, complementing the larger e.MAS 7 that has already been introduced in Malaysia. While official announcements remain pending, industry watchers note that the Xingyuan’s compact dimensions and urban-friendly electric powertrain make it an ideal fit for markets such as Malaysia, where demand for affordable, efficient electric mobility is growing.

In China, the Xingyuan is offered with two electric powertrains, both using lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries supplied by CATL. Fast-charging capabilities allow for a 30% to 80% charge in just 21 minutes. The entry-level variant comes equipped with a 30.12 kWh battery, offering a range of 310km under the Chinese Light-Duty Vehicle Test Cycle (CLTC), and is paired with a rear-mounted motor delivering 79PS and 130Nm of torque. The higher-end model features a larger 40.16 kWh battery that stretches the range to 410km, along with a more powerful 116PS, 150Nm electric motor. Both versions include a deep front trunk—or ‘frunk’—enhancing cargo versatility.

Five variants are currently offered in the Chinese domestic market. Standard and optional features include 16-inch alloy wheels, full LED lighting, a large 14.6-inch infotainment touchscreen (or a smaller 10.1-inch unit in base trims), 256-colour ambient lighting, either a four- or six-speaker audio system, and an external 3.3 kW power outlet for accessory charging. Comfort and convenience features span from manual to powered front seats, automatic air conditioning with rear vents, an 8.8-inch digital instrument cluster, and a 50W wireless phone charger with air-cooling. Comprehensive advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) are also available, underlining the model’s emphasis on safety and smart technology.

Sized for the urban commuter, the Xingyuan is noticeably more compact than its e.MAS 7 sibling. It measures 4,135 mm in length and 1,805 mm in width, with a wheelbase of 2,650 mm—figures that position it firmly in the B-segment crossover category.

With growing anticipation surrounding its potential localisation, the question remains whether this small electric hatch will arrive in Malaysia bearing the Proton badge.

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