President Vladimir Putin has placed Russia’s largest car dealership under temporary state management, a move the Kremlin claimed was driven by commercial considerations.
However, the founder of Rolf, Russian businessman Sergei Petrov, argued that this action portrayed the country as uninvestable.
Sweden’s Transport Agency announced on Friday that it is currently conducting an investigation into suspension failures in Tesla vehicles, a parallel effort to a similar probe initiated by Norway’s traffic safety regulator.
In an emailed statement to Reuters, the Swedish agency confirmed, “We can … confirm that investigative work is also underway with us.”
As of now, Tesla has not responded to requests for comment on the matter.
Meanwhile, the Finnish transport and communications agency informed Reuters that it has not been approached regarding any issues related to faulty suspension failures.
The Norwegian Public Roads Administration (NPRA) disclosed last Thursday that it had commenced an inquiry into Tesla in September 2022. The NPRA has asked the automaker to evaluate consumer complaints about lower rear control arms breaking on its Model S and X vehicles.
Depending on the findings, the Norwegian agency may recommend a recall of the vehicles for part replacement if they are deemed to pose a “serious risk.” Alternatively, they may conclude the investigation if no safety concerns are identified or choose to extend the review.
Regarding the Norwegian probe, the Swedish agency acknowledged that it, too, had received “a number of notifications about cars from the Tesla brand that have suffered from similar problems.” However, a spokesperson for the Swedish regulator declined to provide additional details, citing the ongoing nature of the investigation.
These inquiries in Sweden and Norway come on the heels of a Reuters investigation published earlier in the week. The report revealed that Tesla had consistently blamed drivers for frequent failures of suspension and steering parts that the company had been aware were defective for an extended period. To reduce escalating warranty costs, Tesla reportedly attempted to cut repair expenses by attributing these failures to “driver abuse.”
The investigation was based on an examination of thousands of Tesla documents and interviews with former employees, including service managers and technicians in Norway.
According to a report by Bernama, the Penang Road Transport Department (JPJ) issued 280 summons for various offences.
The operation was aptly called the Christmas Integrated Ops took place at two locations, one at the Penang Bridge Toll Plaza and the Sungai Dua toll plaza.
The operation was conducted together with the Police from 930pm till 5am.
According to a statement released by JPJ, a total of 280 summonses were issued for various offences, among them not having a driving license, expired road tax, no insurance coverage, registration number plate not according to stipulated specification, not displaying the ‘L’ sticker, no side mirrors and illegal modification of motorcycles.
“The integrated ops aimed to monitor, detect and take action against motorcycle riders or owners who failed to comply with regulations under the Road Transport Act 1987 (Act 333) and the Rules under it,” the statement said.
Photos by JPJ Penang
Aston Martin’s highly anticipated Valhalla, initially introduced as the AM-RB 03, is set to enter limited production in 2024 after finalising its development. The mid-engined supercar has transitioned from a V-6 to a powerful AMG flat-plane crank 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8, coupled with two electric motors for a combined output of 998bhp and four-wheel drive capabilities.
With a top speed of 349km/h and an estimated 0-100km/h acceleration in 2.5 seconds, the Valhalla promises an exhilarating performance.
Recent photos of a prototype undergoing testing at Silverstone reveal design tweaks, including larger side cutouts for a more aggressive appearance.
The nose retains Aston Martin’s distinctive styling, and notable features include production-ready headlights, side mirrors, and a retractable rear wing. The rear of the car showcases a variant of the concept’s substantial diffuser.
While the interior of the prototype appears race-oriented, the final production model is expected to offer a more refined cabin, striking a balance between performance and practicality. Limited to just 999 units, the Aston Martin Valhalla represents a high-performance, exclusive offering for enthusiasts.
Volvo’s upcoming electric vehicle, the ES90, is set to replace the S90, marking the automaker’s commitment to electrification.
Built on the SPA2 platform, the mid-size luxury sedan will feature one or two electric motors and a substantial 111 kWh gross or 107 kWh net battery, providing a range of over 600km. The ES90 will be slightly larger than its internal combustion engine counterpart, measuring 4,999 mm in length, 1,945 mm in width, and 1,547 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 3,102 mm.
Internally known as Project V551, the all-wheel-drive ES90 is expected to weigh 2600kg, while the single-engine variant will weigh 2500kg.
Production is scheduled to begin in May 2024, with the first customer deliveries anticipated in mid-2025. The ES90 will initially be available in China and Europe, with a particular focus on expanding into markets such as the United States. There are no reports of it being introduced into the Malaysian market so we will just have to play the waiting game for now.
This move is part of Volvo’s broader strategy to introduce six electric models by 2026, with the new electric Volvo contributing to the brand’s commitment to sustainability and innovation.
A senior criminal lawyer, Salim Bashir, sheds light on the complexities involved when pursuing murder charges for driving offences, emphasising that such charges are rare and require a high standard of proof. As reported by NST, Salim points out that accidents and reckless driving generally fall under Section 41 of the Road Transport Act, which deals with causing death by reckless driving.
To establish a murder case under Section 302 of the Penal Code, the prosecution must demonstrate a clear link between the perpetrator’s intent and the resulting fatal act.
He explains that the prosecution’s burden of proof in road traffic cases is comparatively lesser, but building a murder case involves objectively assessing each incident to determine if it aligns with the criteria for a successful murder conviction.
In response to recent revelations regarding safety test irregularities at Daihatsu Motor Co Ltd (DMC), a subsidiary of Toyota, UMW Toyota Motor (UMWT), a key player in the Malaysian automotive market, is emphasising its commitment to transparency and accountability. The safety test irregularity, as highlighted by Toyota Motor Corporation (TMC), has impacted three Toyota models distributed by UMWT in Malaysia.
Datuk Ravindran K., President of UMW Toyota Motor, assures customers and the public that the company is dedicated to maintaining the highest standards and quality in its vehicles. The statement underscores UMWT’s proactive approach to addressing the situation, collaborating closely with regulatory authorities to ensure a prompt and transparent resolution.
The commitment to delivering high-quality vehicles to the Malaysian market remains a top priority for UMWT. The company acknowledges the importance of trust and aims to reinforce customers’ confidence in its products. The ongoing cooperation with regulatory authorities reflects UMWT’s dedication to adhering to relevant regulations and rules, ensuring the strict compliance of all vehicles in Malaysia.
Datuk Ravindran K. further emphasises the company’s focus on customer satisfaction, assuring the public that efforts are underway to rectify the situation promptly and transparently. By prioritising openness and accountability, UMW Toyota Motor aims to navigate through this challenging situation while upholding its commitment to delivering reliable and safe vehicles to customers in Malaysia.
In a significant development, shareholders of the British supercar maker, McLaren Group, have reportedly given their approval for Bahrain’s sovereign wealth fund, Mumtalakat Holding Company, to take over the majority stake. The proposed plan includes the acquisition of McLaren Racing, the renowned Formula 1 team and the second most successful constructor in the championship. The takeover, which involves a full recapitalisation, streamlined share structure, and governance processes, aims to facilitate McLaren’s expansion into new markets.
The plan from Mumtalakat Holding Company, which is already the majority shareholder, involves gaining full control of McLaren Group. Pending the completion of the recapitalisation, the sovereign wealth fund is expected to take over the ownership within days. The move is seen as a strategic step in the ongoing transformation of the McLaren Group, providing a solid foundation for future growth and brand presence.
Subaru has teased the WRX S4 STI Sport ahead of its debut at the Tokyo Auto Salon 2024. This model previews a special edition of the performance sedan with notable handling upgrades, set for a limited production run. Although likely to remain exclusive to the Japanese market, the prototype hints at exciting changes.
The WRX S4 STI Sport prototype is based on the WRX S4 STI Sport R EX, the flagship trim of the WRX in Japan. The teaser image reveals distinctive features, including new BBS-style wheels and a modified ducktail spoiler on the trunk. Notably, the WRX, S4, and Symmetrical AWD emblems are finished in black, adding a touch of sportiness.
While specific details about the interior and other exterior enhancements remain undisclosed, Subaru promises more than just cosmetic changes. The WRX S4 STI Sport is touted to deliver “enhanced handling” and a “premium drive feel,” indicating significant chassis upgrades. The focus seems to be on refining the driving experience, with less emphasis on powertrain modifications.
Under the hood, the special edition is expected to retain the turbocharged 2.4-litre four-cylinder boxer engine found in all JDM-Spec Subaru WRX variants. Generating 271hp and 375Nm of torque, the engine is paired with a CVT automatic transmission, and power is transmitted to all four wheels through Subaru’s symmetrical AWD system.
Details about the WRX S4 STI Sport prototype will be officially unveiled at the Tokyo Auto Salon 2024, scheduled for January 12-14 at the Makuhari Messe in Chiba.
There is growing speculation about a possible increase in the service tax from 6% to 8%, effective March 1, 2024. Although there’s no official confirmation, the Federation of Motor and Credit Companies Association of Malaysia (FMCCAM) is preparing for the potential impact. One significant area that could be affected is vehicle repairs and maintenance, which does not fall under the exempted categories for the higher tax regime.
While this adjustment is not expected to directly influence car prices, it is likely to result in higher maintenance costs for vehicle owners. According to The Star, the FMCCAM is planning to engage with the government, requesting considerations for small workshops and owners of second-hand cars by seeking an exemption from the additional 2% tax.
Datuk Tony Khor, President of FMCCAM, acknowledges that while the increase may seem small, it could have a notable impact on second-hand car owners with limited budgets. Despite concerns, Khor emphasises the importance of maintaining vehicle safety and roadworthiness.
