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2025 Ford Ranger Plug-In Hybrid Has 45km Of EV-Only Range

Ford is set to expand its Ranger midsize pickup lineup by introducing a plug-in hybrid version in early 2025. This Ranger PHEV is designed to offer a zero-emission range of over 45km, allowing for longer trips without relying on charging infrastructure. It’s engineered to retain the towing, payload, and off-road capabilities of its internal combustion engine (ICE) counterparts.

The powertrain of the Ranger PHEV combines a turbocharged 2.3-litre EcoBoost four-cylinder engine with an electric motor and a battery of undisclosed capacity. While specific specs were not revealed, Ford promises that the plug-in hybrid system will deliver “more torque than any other Ranger.”

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Government To Focus On Developing EV Sector

The government is emphasising the development of the electric vehicle (EV) sector as a significant sub-sector within the New Industrial Master Plan 2030 (NIMP 2030). Deputy Investment, Trade, and Industry Minister Liew Chin Tong stated that policies concerning EVs would be regularly reviewed to bolster the sector’s growth.

According to Bernama, to support the EV sector’s progress, a National EV Steering Committee (NEVSC) meeting will be convened soon. Additionally, plans include the initiation of EV’s Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) programs in early 2024.

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“Sambung Bayar” Car Involved In Robbery

So, you’re considering a “sambung bayar” deal to sell your car while there’s still an outstanding loan in your name? Maybe it’s time to reconsider.

As reported by NST, Amir (not his real name) faced a double setback after losing his job when his car, surrendered to a repossessor under the impression of a legitimate “sambung bayar” arrangement, was later found to be involved in a robbery.

In a state of desperation, Amir opted for the “sambung bayar” practice through an agent, hoping to find a new owner to take over his loan. This would allow him to navigate the financial strain of his outstanding loan without the burden of the car.

However, the situation took an unexpected turn. Instead of finding a legitimate new owner, the repossessor paid Amir RM1,000 and sold his car to an individual who was supposed to continue servicing the loan. This misrepresentation left Amir both financially and emotionally burdened, highlighting the potential risks and pitfalls associated with such transactions.

Unfortunately, the new owner misused Amir’s car and failed to continue servicing the loan, leaving Amir in a dire situation. Despite never meeting this new owner, Amir learned from the police that his car had been used in a robbery.

Regretting his decision to surrender the car to the repossessor for illegal resale, Amir, a former aircraft engineer, faced a daunting situation, worsened by financial challenges due to the pandemic’s impact on the airline industry.

Siva, another victim of this deceptive practice, sought help from a man who promised to find a buyer for his Perodua Alza to settle his loan. This man convinced Siva to lodge a report to seemingly legitimise the transfer of ownership.

The new owner initially paid Siva’s loan for a year, giving a false sense of relief. However, payments stopped, leaving Siva in a precarious situation. Through persistence and resourcefulness, Siva managed to recover his car, settling the loan and ensuring a fair resolution for all parties involved.

Porsche’s European Trademark for EV Sound Rejected

Porsche is currently appealing a decision by European trademark authorities regarding a sound designed to replace the near-silence of an electric vehicle accelerating. Porsche had submitted the sound as a trademark, aiming to address the need for electric vehicles to emit identifiable sounds for vision-impaired pedestrians.

However, the European Union Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO) rejected the trademark application, stating that the sound lacked distinctiveness and resembled a traditional internal combustion engine, making it unrecognisable as distinctly Porsche. Porsche appealed this decision, highlighting that the sound was artificially created and not derived from an engine.

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UMW Toyota Introduces The Yaris IMP Facelift

The newly introduced Yaris IMP by UMW Toyota Motor (UMWT) receives a facelift, boasting updated styling, enhanced technology, and a refreshed interior ambience.

This model builds upon the significant success of its predecessor, having sold over 60,300 units since its initial launch in 2019. The Yaris continues to embody the theme “Dare To Live: Amp Up Your Vibe,” appealing to a youthful audience by offering joy and excitement to those seeking a vehicle that aligns with their modern and forward-thinking sense of style.

The latest Toyota Yaris is now available in two variants: the 1.5E and 1.5G. Both variants feature sporty front and rear skirting, along with an optional 2-tone paint finish that includes a striking black roof. In total, there are 5 color combinations to choose from, with red mica metallic and platinum white pearl colours available in both single or two-tone options. The silver metallic finish is exclusively available in a single-tone option.

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Citroen/DS Models Recalled By Bermaz For Faulty Takata Airbags

Bermaz Auto Alliance Sdn Bhd (BAASB), the authorised aftersales provider of Citroen/DS models in Malaysia, has issued a recall and a “Stop Drive Statement” for Citroen/DS vehicles in regard to the faulty Takata airbags.

The models affected by the recall are the following models produced between 2009 and 2017 which are the Citroen C3, Citroen C4, DS3, DS4, and DS5. Owners of these cars are strongly advised to adhere to the recall and “Stop Drive Statement” to ensure their safety and the safety of others on the road.

The recall campaign initiated in 2020 for various phases globally targets vehicles equipped with potentially hazardous Takata airbag inflators. These inflators may deteriorate over time, particularly in hot and humid climates, presenting a rupture risk upon deployment. This rupture can result in dangerous debris scatter, posing a severe threat of injury or fatality.

If you own any of the mentioned models and haven’t received a notification, you can take proactive steps. Contact the company’s customer relationship management helpline at 03-7627 8818 and provide your vehicle’s VIN number for verification. Alternatively, you can reach out via email at customersupport@baasb.com.my to ensure your vehicle’s status regarding the recall and necessary repairs. Your vigilance in this matter is crucial for your safety and the proper resolution of the recall.

BYD Han Having Trouble During Moose Test

While BYD is already a dominant force in the electric vehicle market in China, its expansion into Western markets, particularly Europe, positions it in direct competition with established giants like Mercedes, BMW, and Volkswagen.

The BYD Han, in particular, stands as a significant model in this expansion, directly competing with renowned vehicles like the Mercedes-Benz EQE sedan and the BMW i5. The Han boasts an impressive set of features on paper, offering all-wheel drive, an extensive electric range of 521km on the WLTP cycle, and a competitive pricing strategy that positions it favorably against its rivals. This move by BYD signifies a strategic push to establish a strong presence and gain a significant market share in Europe’s rapidly evolving automotive landscape.

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BYD Production Line Rolls Out 500,000th Atto 3

BYD, a global leader in new energy vehicles (NEVs), is celebrating a major achievement with the production of its 500,000th BYD Atto 3 at its Hefei industrial plant. Remarkably, this milestone was reached in just 19 months since the Atto 3’s launch.

The BYD Atto 3, positioned as the first model for the global market, has swiftly become the top-selling NEV in various countries, including Singapore, New Zealand, Thailand, Israel, and Sweden. By now, BYD’s passenger vehicles are present and successful in over 50 countries and regions. Particularly noteworthy is the Atto 3’s dominance in Israel’s NEV sales for nine consecutive months and its current standing as Thailand’s best-selling pure electric vehicle as of August 2023. These accomplishments underscore BYD’s growing influence and triumph in the global automotive market.

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Lotus Eletre And Emira Malaysian Pricing Revised

Lotus Cars Malaysia, the exclusive franchise holder for Lotus in the country, has revised the pricing of the fully-electric Eletre Hyper-SUV and the premium Emira sports car due to recent developments in the ringgit’s value against major foreign currencies.

For the mid-range Eletre S, the suggested retail price is now RM698,000 (up from RM648,000), and for the range-topping Eletre R, it’s RM838,000 (up from RM798,000). These prices are applicable in both Peninsular Malaysia and Langkawi. The base Eletre’s pricing will be announced later as this variant won’t be available until at least 2025.

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Geely Panda Knight: An Off-Road Mini EV With 200km Range

Geely has introduced its new model, the Panda Knight, in the Chinese market. As of the launch, the Panda Knight is available in a single-model variant.

It draws design inspiration from the Panda Mini and features a slightly extended body. It measures 3135mm in length, 1565mm in width, and 1655mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2015mm. Essentially, the Knight can be described as an off-road variant of the Mini, retaining the standard Mini EV body.

To enhance its off-road capabilities and rugged appearance, the Knight comes equipped with various features, including a side ladder, dual-colour luggage racks, blackened wheel arches, and 14-inch aluminium alloy rims.

In terms of its front design, the Panda Knight retains the signature large, round headlights that are characteristic of the Panda series. These headlights give the car a distinct appearance and contribute to its unique identity.

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