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A video showing a woman filling her Thai-registered car with subsidised fuel at a petrol station in Rawang, Selangor, has ignited frustration among netizens. The video not only highlighted the audacious act but also raised eyebrows as a petrol station employee was seen assisting in the process.

In the footage, a man stood in front of the woman, holding the fuel nozzle, while another person, seemingly a station worker, pressed on the car’s boot—a common practice to facilitate the fuelling process. Netizens expressed their anger not only towards the woman’s actions but also questioned why the station employee allowed the use of subsidised fuel for a foreign-registered vehicle.

 

The video owner, expressing disbelief, remarked on the audacity of stealing subsidised fuel meant for Malaysian citizens and questioned the station employees for assisting in the act.

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Amidst power outages caused by storms and flash flooding on 25th December 2023 in Australia, an electric vehicle (EV) owner on the Gold Coast utilised her car’s emergency power system to run her 11-year-old son’s life-saving dialysis machine.

Kristy Holmes, a resident of the Gold Coast, utilised her BYD electric car, equipped with a “vehicle to load” system, allowing the EV to function as an emergency power source for various devices.

The unexpected blackout prompted Holmes to initially assist her neighbours by connecting their refrigerators to her EV. However, as the power outage persisted, she realised that her BYD Atto 3, purchased in February, could potentially power her 11-year-old son Levi’s life-saving dialysis machine. Taking a decisive step, Holmes successfully ran the dialysis machine off the car’s power, ensuring that Levi, who is on the verge of joining a transplant list, received critical treatment despite the adverse weather conditions.

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Perusahaan Otomobil Kedua Sdn Bhd (Perodua) has responded to concerns regarding a malfunction in a Perodua Bezza car, which reportedly occurred within eight hours of purchase by a clerk. Perodua’s Sales Chief Operating Officer, J.H. Rozman Jaafar, assured that the company conducted a comprehensive investigation into the matter, prioritising customer satisfaction.

Rozman stated that Perodua has maintained constant communication with the customer since October of the previous year. The company has taken several measures to address the issue, including offering a courtesy car and proposing to buy back the malfunctioning vehicle. The clerk, Nagakanni Subramaniam, had expressed frustration over continuing monthly loan payments despite her car being stranded at a service centre.

FB/Nagakanni Subramaniam

Perodua is actively working on a thorough investigation of the reported malfunction and has assured the public that details will be shared in due course. Rozman refuted allegations that no action had been taken, emphasising the company’s commitment to resolving the matter. Perodua apologised for any inconvenience caused and thanked customers for their understanding during this process.

What was the issue? Here’s a recap:

October 17, 2023: A Troubling Start

The journey began on October 17, 2023, when the owner purchased a Bezza 1.3 X from Harapan Terang Motor Sales Center Sdn Bhd Segamat. Just eight hours later, at 7:40 p.m., the car refused to start, leading to the vehicle being towed to the Perodua Segamat Service Center.

October 18, 2023: Diagnosis and Hope for a Quick Solution

The mechanic at the service centre delivered the disappointing news—the engine was damaged. Hope for a prompt resolution emerged when the owner requested a replacement. However, the joy was short-lived.

November 9, 2023: A Baffling Turn of Events

Mr. Sufian, a Customer Sales Executive from Perodua HQ, presented an unexpected twist to the situation. Claiming that a foreign object, potentially sugar, had damaged the engine, he pointed to a two-week to one-month wait for a decision from Perodua HQ.

The owner’s denial of any tampering or presence of foreign objects raises questions about the veracity of the investigation and calls for a more transparent and accountable process.

November 15, 2023: Loan Limbo

Mr. Sufian urged the owner to apply for a new loan for a replacement car. However, the owner, still repaying the existing loan, understandably sought resolution before undertaking a new financial commitment.

December 4, 2023: Stalled Progress

Efforts to move forward faced a setback when the salesperson requested documents for a new loan, met with rejection from the owner who emphasised the outstanding first loan.

December 8, 2023: Elusive Approval

Customer Service conveyed that the final proposal lacked approval, citing ongoing internal investigations by Perodua. The absence of a definitive response in black and white left the owner in a state of limbo.

January 2, 2024: The Lingering Silence

As the calendar turned to 2024, the owner’s plea for resolution echoed in silence. With more than two months passed, the lack of a formal response from Perodua raises concerns about customer service and the timely resolution of legitimate grievances.

January 3, 2024: Perodua issues a statement.

BMW enthusiasts in Malaysia may have reason to be excited as the BMW iX2 hints at its potential arrival on our shores. A cursory glance at BMW Malaysia’s website reveals a mysterious blacked-out silhouette, teasing the imminent introduction of this electric coupe. Unveiled globally in October 2023, the iX2 promises to be a sleek and powerful addition to BMW’s electric vehicle (EV) lineup.

While no booking or registration links are available yet, clicking on the enigmatic silhouette leads to a brief overview of the iX2. Among the key details shared is its impressive electric range, potentially reaching up to 449 km on a single charge.

The gradual expansion of BMW’s EV offerings in Malaysia reflects the growing demand for sustainable and high-performance vehicles in the market. The iX2, with its enticing features, is likely to find a receptive audience among Malaysian car enthusiasts.

The iX2 is essentially a coupe version of the iX1, boasting a more aggressive styling approach and a distinctive sloping roof. Its taillight design, though divisive, showcases BMW’s commitment to exploring new aesthetic directions.

Under the hood, the iX2 xDrive30 is equipped with a dual-motor all-wheel-drive (AWD) setup, delivering 313hp and 494Nm of torque. With a single-speed transmission, the iX2 accelerates from 0 to 100km/h in a swift 5.6 seconds, showcasing the electric powertrain’s prowess. The 64.7-kWh battery provides a noteworthy WLTP range of 449km, positioning the iX2 as a formidable contender in the EV market.

The performance figures and range of the iX2 underscore BMW’s commitment to delivering an electric driving experience that combines power, efficiency, and range—an essential trio for widespread EV adoption.

Charging capabilities further enhance the appeal of the iX2, with options for 11kW AC charging or an upgrade to a 22 kW system. The latter allows for faster charging, exemplifying BMW’s dedication to providing convenient and efficient charging solutions.

Inside the iX2, familiarity reigns as it shares its interior design with the iX1. The twin floating screens and a spacious center console with a vertical wireless phone charger create a modern and user-friendly cockpit. The incorporation of BMW Operating System 9 and specially designed seats optimized for long-distance comfort elevate the driving experience.

The consistency in design and features across BMW’s EV lineup ensures a seamless transition for drivers embracing electric mobility, fostering brand loyalty and confidence in the evolving technology.

As BMW’s EV family in Malaysia potentially welcomes the iX2, the automotive landscape is poised for a dynamic shift towards sustainable and cutting-edge transportation. The iX2, with its blend of style, performance, and advanced technology, symbolises the next chapter in BMW’s electric journey and sets the stage for an electrifying future on Malaysian roads.

New images of China’s most advanced aircraft carrier, the Fujian, have been unveiled, showcasing next-generation launch tracks capable of catapulting a wider range of aircraft from its deck. First unveiled in June 2022, the domestically designed and built Fujian is yet to undergo its first sea trials.

The Fujian surpasses its predecessors, the Shandong commissioned in 2019 and the Liaoning, acquired from Ukraine in 1998, in terms of size and technological advancements. Images broadcasted on state television depict the Fujian being towed by a smaller vessel, revealing all three tracks of its electromagnetic catapult system on the deck.’

While sea trials are pending, the carrier has undergone various tests, including mooring tests. In November, the Fujian initiated launch tests for its electromagnetic catapult system, distinguishing it as the only carrier, besides the US Ford-class carriers, equipped with the latest Electromagnetic Aircraft Launch System (EMALS).

China’s version of EMALS enhances its capability to launch a broader spectrum of aircraft compared to its predecessors, Shandong and Liaoning. Additionally, it is touted to be more reliable and energy-efficient, marking a significant milestone in China’s military modernisation efforts.

President Xi Jinping’s emphasis on increased combat-readiness and technological advancements aligns with the trajectory of modernising the Chinese military, with the Fujian showcasing its commitment to achieving these goals. The unveiling comes amid heightened tensions, with some speculating potential military actions concerning Taiwan, particularly ahead of the 100th anniversary of the People’s Liberation Army in 2027. The carrier’s advanced features and capabilities underscore China’s commitment to strengthening its naval prowess on the global stage.

In the era of electric vehicles (EVs), the act of charging them may seem as routine as charging our mobile phones. However, recent concerns raised by experts highlight the potential dangers associated with generic or faulty parts used in EV charging stations, drawing parallels with the risks we’ve seen in the mobile phone industry.

In a report written in The Star by Ragananthini Vethasalam, Malaysian Institute of Road Safety Research chairman Wong Shaw Voon has emphasised the need for caution, pointing out that while phone explosions have led to fatalities, the stakes are higher with EVs due to the larger amounts of energy they transfer and store.

The comparison serves as a stark reminder that as EV adoption grows, the responsibility to ensure the safety of charging facilities lies not only with manufacturers but also with EV owners and charging station operators.

Wong warns against the use of generic and cheaper parts, echoing concerns that as EVs become more prevalent, there may be a surge in the use of substandard components in charging infrastructure.

It is crucial for stakeholders in the EV ecosystem to prioritise quality over cost, as the potential risks associated with compromised charging stations could escalate with the increasing popularity of EVs.

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Toyota’s iconic 2024 GR Corolla is making waves in the automotive industry with unconventional yet intriguing updates aimed at elevating vehicle performance and aerodynamics.

In a commitment to continuous innovation, Toyota has introduced subtle yet impactful changes to the 2024 GR Corolla. Among these updates are new bolts, air ducts, and a noteworthy addition – four strips of specially designed aluminium tape. This unconventional addition serves a unique purpose, addressing the often-overlooked phenomenon of electrostatic discharge in automotive design.

The concept of electrostatic discharge comes into play as a vehicle moves, causing both the car body and the surrounding air to develop a positive charge. This phenomenon can lead to repelling forces that subtly affect airflow around the vehicle. The revelation of this challenge emerged during the development of the facelifted Toyota 86, where inconsistent test results were observed due to electrostatic issues.

Toyota’s solution involves the integration of patented aluminium tape, strategically placed to manage electrostatic discharge and, concurrently, enhance aerodynamics. This innovative approach showcases Toyota’s commitment to understanding the intricacies of vehicle dynamics and pushing the boundaries of design.

Pro drifter Ken Gushi, an early adopter of the 2024 upgrade kit on his 2023 GR Corolla, has provided subjective yet promising feedback. Gushi noted a significant difference in his vehicle’s driving dynamics post-upgrade. While awaiting confirmation from controlled testing, Gushi’s observations underscore the potential impact of these minor modifications. The improvements hint at the transformative power of seemingly small tweaks in fine-tuning and optimising vehicle performance.

Toyota’s 2024 GR Corolla sets a precedent for innovative design thinking in the automotive industry, proving that even minor changes can lead to substantial enhancements in driving dynamics and overall performance.

In a sensational feat, Porsche has unveiled its upcoming Taycan variant, setting a new lap record at the iconic Nürburgring circuit. Driven by Porsche development ace Lars Kern, the pre-series Taycan achieved a remarkable 7:07.55 lap time, surpassing its predecessor, the 2022 Taycan Turbo S, by an impressive 26 seconds. This performance even outpaced the 992 911 Turbo S, firmly establishing the electric vehicle’s prowess.

Identified by its distinct rear spoiler, the Taycan variant, speculated to be named Turbo GT, is expected to lead a mid-cycle update for the Taycan model, which entered the scene four years ago. This achievement highlights the electric car’s ability to sustain high performance consistently, addressing a common concern associated with electric vehicles.

Under the hood, the Turbo GT is anticipated to boast three motors, delivering a baseline power level exceeding 800PS. The two motors at the rear axle promise enhanced power distribution and torque vectoring, contributing to the car’s versatile performance capabilities.

Porsche enthusiasts and the automotive community eagerly await the official unveiling of the Taycan Turbo GT, expected within the first half of 2024. The company plans to release additional details and full footage of the record-breaking lap in March, adding to the excitement surrounding this groundbreaking electric vehicle.

In a bid to enhance user convenience and reduce physical transactions at Road Transport Department (RTD) counters, Malaysians will be able to renew their driving licences and road tax digitally starting February 1, 2024. According to NST, the announcement was made by Transport Minister Anthony Loke, who emphasised the advantages of the new digital renewal feature available on the RTD’s MyJPJ app.

Key Highlights:

  1. Malaysians opting for a digital driving licence renewal will enjoy an RM5 rebate until December 31, 2024.
  2. The digital renewal feature is exclusive to Malaysian citizens and does not apply to foreign nationals, pass holders, long-term permit holders, MyKAS Card, or MyPR Card holders.
  3. The MyJPJ app, introduced in February of the previous year, has gained 7.5 million users as of December 31, 2023.
  4. The new road tax issuance will shift from a disk sticker to a security paper, eliminating the need for display on vehicle mirrors.
  5. During the interim period, the road tax security slip is not mandatory, providing users time to adapt to the digital system.
  6. Malaysians are reminded that enforcement actions will be taken against individuals driving without a valid digital driving licence and road tax.

Loke highlighted the growing preference for digital platforms among drivers and vehicle owners, emphasising the government’s commitment to digital transformation. The move aligns with broader efforts to streamline processes, reduce congestion at physical counters, and provide a more efficient and user-friendly experience for Malaysians managing essential documents.

Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM) has unveiled an upgraded version of the Golf GTI, now equipped with a premium Harman Kardon audio system and a Head-up Display. Priced at RM252,990, these enhancements aim to provide an elevated driving experience for enthusiasts.

The addition of the Harman Kardon 480-watt audio system complements the Golf GTI’s interior, delivering an immersive surround sound experience through its 10 speakers. This feature enhances the overall ambience of the GTI, providing impressive acoustics for an immersive driving experience.

Another notable feature introduced in the upgraded Golf GTI is the Head-up Display. This innovative safety feature projects essential information directly onto the driver’s field of vision on the windscreen. Vital data, including speed, navigation details, and system warnings, is presented in a way that allows drivers to stay informed without diverting their attention from the road.

The Golf GTI, a renowned icon among hot hatches, continues to impress with its powerful performance. It is powered by a 2.0TSI turbocharged engine coupled with a 7-speed wet clutch DSG, generating an impressive 245PS and 370Nm of torque. Recognisable by its signature honeycomb front grille, red GTI trims, and sporty 18” Richmond alloy wheels, the Golf GTI also features full LED headlamps and taillights.

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