NexV Manufacturing Sdn Bhd, a joint venture between Careplus Group Berhad and GoAuto Group Sdn Bhd, is set to pioneer Malaysia’s first green technology facility dedicated to the manufacture and assembling of New Energy Vehicles (NEVs), including electric vehicles (EVs). The groundbreaking ceremony, officiated by Negeri Sembilan Menteri Besar YAB Dato’ Seri Haji Aminuddin bin Harun in the Chembong Industrial Area, Rembau, Negeri Sembilan, marks a significant step toward creating employment opportunities and driving investments in the region.
Scheduled to commence operations in Q1 2025, the plant will boast an annual capacity of 30,000 vehicles. A key highlight is the assembly of NETA models through the joint venture between Careplus and Intro Synergy Sdn Bhd, a GoAuto subsidiary. However, the plant won’t be limited to NETA vehicles; it will also offer opportunities for other New Energy Vehicle (NEV) brands interested in Completely Knocked Down (CKD) assembly of passenger and commercial EVs or electric motorcycles.
Japanese state-owned company, including East Japan Railway Co, have reportedly abandoned their plans to participate in the Kuala Lumpur-Singapore High-Speed Rail (HSR) project, citing concerns about financial risks without support from the Malaysian government.
The company had initially intended to use the Japanese Shinkansen bullet train system for the project. This decision is seen as an opportunity for Chinese firms to strengthen their presence in East Asian infrastructure projects, especially after their involvement in completing a high-speed rail project in Indonesia in 2023, with another project ongoing in Thailand.
According to sources, with the Japanese company’s withdrawal, local firms are now considering partnerships with Chinese and European companies to submit bids for the KL-Singapore HSR project. The Request for Information (RFI) process initiated by MyHSR Corporation Sdn Bhd to allow private sector proposals for the HSR project has extended its deadline to January 15, 2024.
The Malaysian government aims to re-implement the project through new financing mechanisms and implementation models to enhance rail transport infrastructure and stimulate the country’s economy.
The KL-Singapore HSR project, initially estimated at approximately RM110 billion, was terminated on January 1, 2021, as both Malaysia and Singapore failed to reach an agreement on proposed changes before the project agreement’s expiration on December 31, 2020. The termination led to Malaysia agreeing to pay SG$102.8 million to Singapore for the costs incurred during the HSR project development and related extension delays.
A video of a frustrated local resident taking matters into his own hands to address potholes in Taman Sentosa, Klang, has gone viral, drawing attention to the ongoing road condition issues in the area. In the 30-second video, the man can be seen painting over a recently tarred section of Jalan Hulubalang, expressing his dissatisfaction with the lack of action from the elected representative.
The video, posted by @NaratifRakyat two days ago on social media platform X, has garnered 264,000 views, sparking supportive comments from netizens praising the man’s initiative. Many residents shared their experiences of motorcyclists falling due to the poor road conditions.
The resident, frustrated with the unaddressed potholes, took it upon himself to use his own funds to fix the road, highlighting the urgency of the matter. In the video, he emphasises that the money used is from the public, not the elected representatives, to prevent any unwarranted claims.
@NaratifRakyat, who uploaded the video, pointed out that despite previous complaints to the local representative, no action was taken to repair the potholed road. The video prompted a discussion on the effectiveness of the local government in addressing residents’ concerns.
Toyota Gazoo Racing (TGR) has revealed the evolved version of its iconic GR Yaris, reinforcing its commitment to the continuous improvement of motorsports-bred cars. The GR Yaris, symbolic of TGR’s dedication to excellence, has undergone rigorous testing and competition evolution since its launch in September 2020.
Central to this evolution is the introduction of a newly developed 8-speed GAZOO Racing Direct Automatic Transmission. This transmission, honed through motorsports testing and diverse road conditions, boasts optimised software for sporty driving, achieving world-class gear-shifting speeds and close-ratio gears for optimal power band utilisation. The RZ “High performance” trim is equipped with a Torsen LSD for enhanced driving force control.
The engine performance sees an increase in output from 272PS to 304PS and torque from 370Nm to 400Nm.
In terms of cockpit design, the control panel and display have been tilted 15 degrees towards the driver for improved visibility and operability. The driving posture has been enhanced, forward visibility expanded, and the shift lever position optimised. A 12.3-inch full-colour TFT gauge display, inspired by professional race drivers, offers crucial vehicle information.
The exterior design incorporates motorsports input with features like an upgraded lower grille, larger side lower grilles for improved cooling, and a rear lower garnish with an opening to reduce aerodynamic drag.
Chassis and body reinforcements include an increased number of bolts fastening the body to shock absorbers and additional spot welding points, resulting in improved handling stability. A “Cooling Package” enhances cooling performance with options like a sub-radiator, cool air intake, and intercooler sprayer.
The GR Yaris also introduces a standard drive mode selection function for both sporty and everyday driving. The optional vertical parking brake, influenced by motorsports, enhances operational efficiency in competitions. TGR plans to offer an upgrade service for the GRMN Yaris, incorporating lessons from the evolved GR Yaris and motorsports participation.
The GR Yaris RZ “High performance・Sébastien Ogier Edition” and GR Yaris RZ “High performance・Kalle Rovanperä Edition” concept models are set for sales launch, to be unveiled at Rallye Monte Carlo, marking the first round of the FIA World Rally Championship. TGR’s commitment to making ever-better motorsports-bred cars remains an ongoing pursuit, ensuring the GR Yaris continues to evolve through competition and driver feedback.
A fire that broke out on December 31 at an Electric Vehicle Charging Systems (EVCS) bay in Johor has prompted an investigation by the Energy Commission (ST), revealing that the company operating the EVCS was operating without the required licence.
The Energy Commission emphasised that according to the Electricity Supply Act 1990 (Act 447) and the Electricity Regulations 1994, any entity involved in energy supply activities must obtain a valid licence from the Energy Commission.
The incident occurred at a car showroom in Tampoi, Johor, where a Mercedes Benz EQB model caught fire while charging. As stated by reports, the fire caused significant damage, destroying approximately five per cent of the premises and 20 per cent of the EVCS bay. Fortunately, there were no reported injuries.
In response to the unlicensed operation, the Energy Commission stated that the responsible party and the company would be called to assist in the investigation. The commission aims to determine the true cause of the incident.
This revelation follows the commission’s earlier proposal, reported on December 16, 2022, urging Charging Point Operators involved in the development of Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure to obtain a valid public distribution licence for EVCS installations. The directive applied to installations across the country, including those already in operation, with a deadline set for March 31 of the following year.
The investigation sheds light on the importance of adhering to regulatory frameworks to ensure the safety and reliability of electric vehicle charging infrastructure. The Energy Commission remains committed to upholding standards in the rapidly growing electric vehicle industry in Malaysia.
The Proton X90 created quite a storm when it was introduced last year. Not only was it Proton’s first D-segment SUV, but it was also its first seven-seater SUV.
There were lots of expectations, especially in terms of price, and truth be told, we were quite surprised when Proton announced the price of the X90. Not because it was expensive, but because it was surprisingly affordable.
The starting price for the X90 is just RM123,800, which is the exact same price as the flagship X70. There is an overlap in pricing there, but it makes perfect sense for those seeking more space and a bigger car.
But is it worth it? After being loaned one for a week, attending a wedding with it with eight people in the car and all the accompanying ceremonies throughout the course of a few days, we are surprised that we don’t see more X90’s on the road.
The X90 sits in the same segment as the Kia Sorento, Toyota Fortuner, Chery Tiggo 8 Pro and the Hyundai Santa Fe, among others of course. It does everything that the others can do, and it is a lot cheaper as well.
The X90 is based on the Geely Haoyue (also known as the Okavango in some markets) but it is not a simple rebadge job. Proton updated the design particularly around the bumpers and the grille to keep it in line with the overall Proton design language.
Besides the restyling, Proton said that it also updated the suspension of the X90 to ensure that it is better suited to Malaysian roads. During the launch of the X90, Proton said that its engineers tested the multi-link suspension over a course of a million kilometers on various roads in Malaysia.
You can be forgiven if you think that the suspension is a little bit on the softer side, but drive it for a few days and you will notice that it actually does really well at soaking up all the horrible things that Malaysian roads tend to have; pot holes, sudden inundations, overly aggressive speed bumps, etc.
In terms of design, the X90 is a big, long SUV that from certain angles has the proportions and even the silhouette of an MPV. In fact, there have been some fiery debates online about what the X90 actually is. But Proton refers to it as an SUV so that should end that unnecessary argument.
Inside, the X90 is mighty impressive. Quality is surprisingly good, in fact, we will go so far as to say that quality of the X90 is the best amongst any Protons, past and present.
We drove the Flagship variant, which is one of four variants on offer. The standard is priced at RM123,800, the Executive at RM130,800, the Premium has a RM144,800 price tag while the top-of-the-line variant you see here is priced at RM152,800.
Just for reference, the cheapest Kia Sorento is priced at just under RM212,000 while the entry-level Toyota Fortuner costs RM195,880. In fact, the only competitor that remotely gets close to the X90 in terms of pricing is the Chery Tiggo 8 Pro that costs RM159,800.
The X90 Flagship model is also the only model that comes as a six-seater, the rest are seven-seaters. The Flagship model offers two individual seats in the second row, which some call captain seats, and just about everything is wrapped in fine Nappa leather.
Now depending on how many people you ferry around or even if you like being driven around, the six-seater variant is not a bad deal despite lacking sitting space. As we found out, children appreciate their individual space as much as older people do. And if you don’t have too many people to ferry, this is a great way to go around.
There is also a full panoramic roof that adds to the sense of occasion as well as separate climate control for the second-row passengers. This is great but quite normal, what is not normal though is that the air-conditioning vents are located on the roof of the car rather than at the bottom of the centre console. This is ingenious as it blows cool air directly to your face rather than to your knee. If that still does not cut it, the X90 even offers ventilated seats for the first and second row seats. Several car makers, who charge a lot more for their cars, should take a cue from the X90.
The third-row passengers too will appreciate having their own vents as well as their own USB ports and cup holders, making the X90 perfectly suited for family escapades.
There is plenty of tech too, for starters the X90 runs on a mild-hybrid powertrain. The core is a 1.5-litre, three-cylinder turbocharged GDI engine that is similar to the X50 Flagship as well as the new X70 models. It is mated to Proton’s regular seven-speed wet dual-clutch gearbox that sends power exclusively to the front wheels.
But that’s not all, being a “mild-hybrid”, there is a battery and a converter that works to provide more power while improving overall efficiency. It does this by utilizing six components that form the entire hybrid system – a DC-DC converter, a belt-starter generator (BSG), a lithium-ion battery, a battery management system, energy recovering braking system and a hybrid module control system.
Working in unison with the standard powertrain, the X90 offers 190PS and 300Nm of torque. Just for reference, that is 13PS and 45Nm more than other cars that run on the same powertrain but without the hybrid system. Aside from more power, the X90 also has 10% better acceleration and 13% lower emissions.
The X90 may be comfortable to drive or to be driven in, but when it is fully loaded, it does tend to feel a little underpowered. Despite it being up on power as compared to its siblings with same engine, it is also heavier and sits more people, so when all seats are occupied, it feels like it needs about 20PS and 50Nm more.
The trick though is to use one of the three driving modes (Sport, Normal and Comfort), particularly Sport mode. This is when the SUV feels more nippy and eager to downshift, giving you quicker access to power when you need it the most.
Despite that, the powertrain is undoubtedly smooth, but we have a gripe, not with the engine nor the gearbox or the hybrid system, but the gear selector. In regular selectors, you either move the lever once to move from P to D or vice versa.
However, in the X90, you have to pull the lever down twice. First to move from P to N and then again to D, which is quite weird. But to select P, you only have to press the P button. This is not something that will put buyers off, but it is quite awkward.
Continuing with the topic of tech, the meter panel is fully digitalized with a 10-inch LCD panel offering all the essentials such as speed, rpm and gear position.
At the centre of the rather large dashboard is a 12.3-inch infotainment screen that gives you access to music and navigation. However, we still loathe the fact that the X90 does not come with Apple CarPlay or Android Auto.
Great news though, some Protons executives have said that the carmaker will soon be offering those two systems, and even existing owners will be able to access it through a hardware update.
It also offers a host of features such as adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, lane departure warning, intelligent high beam control, 360 camera and one system that we were particularly impressed by – the door opening warning system. This lets you know when there is a cyclist or a motorcyclist that is approaching the car and warns you so you don’t accidentally open the door. The downside to this is it also works in traffic, and in Malaysia where motorcyclists are incessantly zooming past a car, the system is constantly beeping. And that can be annoying.
But then again, tech is not always perfect but the Proton X90 still has a lot to offer, such as impressive refinement, quality and tech that can put more expensive cars to shame. And at its price, there is simply no arguing against it.
In a historic move, China, already crowned the world’s largest exporter of vehicles, continues its automotive ascendancy with the launch of the BYD Explorer No. 1, the first Chinese-built cargo ship explicitly designed for vehicle exports. Departing from Longkou, a port city in northeastern China, the vessel, commissioned by electric vehicle giant BYD, is destined for Europe, marking a strategic milestone in the company’s global expansion.
Built to transport up to 7,000 vehicles, the BYD Explorer No. 1 is a testament to China’s booming automotive industry. Commissioned by BYD, China’s top-selling auto brand and a prominent player in the electric vehicle market, the cargo ship is managed by Zodiac Maritime Ltd. and constructed by International Marine Containers Group Co.
As part of BYD’s ambitious growth strategy, the Explorer No. 1 embarks on its maiden voyage to Europe, with the goal of expanding overseas sales. BYD, despite outselling Tesla in electric vehicle sales during the fourth quarter of 2023, aims to solidify its position as the number one electric vehicle manufacturer globally.
Togg, the Turkish electric car manufacturer, took the stage at CES 2024 to unveil the near-production prototype of their highly anticipated T10F electric fastback sedan, slated for release in 2025. With a design philosophy that transcends traditional automotive boundaries, Togg positions the T10F as more than just a car – it’s a “connected smart device.”
Design
The T10F, following in the footsteps of its T10X crossover sibling, boasts a striking design characterised by a fully enclosed grille adorned with chrome accents, resembling tulip petals. The LED headlights, flanking the grille, are complemented by boomerang-shaped daytime running lights, while a large central intake and triangular air curtains contribute to the aerodynamic profile.
Moving to the rear, digital side mirrors, flush door handles, and a pronounced shoulder line enhance the sleek silhouette. The contrasting black roof and a curvaceous rear end, featuring a slender light bar, complete the exterior aesthetic.
Inside, Togg has integrated cutting-edge technology, with a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a massive 29-inch widescreen infotainment system taking centre stage. A lower 8-inch display, focused on climate controls and phone contacts, adds to the futuristic cockpit. Togg emphasises the T10F as their inaugural model to offer a heated steering wheel, enhancing driver comfort. The interior also showcases a rotary shifter, touch controls, and a wireless smartphone charger. The 500-litre trunk capacity expands to 1,350 litres when the rear seat is folded down.
Performance and Electric Range
On the performance front, the entry-level T10F boasts a rear-mounted motor producing 215hp and 350Nm of torque, enabling a 0-100km/h acceleration in 7.2 seconds. For enthusiasts seeking more power, a dual-motor all-wheel-drive variant is available, pushing the output to an impressive 429hp and 700Nm of torque. This powerhouse variant can accelerate from 0-100km/h in just 4.6 seconds.
Togg aims for a remarkable WLTP range of 600km with the long-range battery, featuring an 88.5 kWh capacity. The standard 52.4 kWh battery is targeted to deliver a range of 350km. Notably, a 180 kW DC fast charger can recharge the battery from 20-80% in a swift 28 minutes.
Global Launch Plans
The Togg T10F is set to hit the Turkish market next year before making its way to Europe, marking a significant step in Togg’s ambition to redefine the electric vehicle landscape with elegance, innovation, and unparalleled technology.
Honda Malaysia introduced the highly-anticipated all-new CRV at the end of 2023, and it created quite a stir.
The all-new CRV is better in every sense of the word – bigger, more intelligent, better looking and safer than ever.
However, during the launch last year, Honda Malaysia only introduced three variants:
1. The V variant
This sits below the flagship model and is priced at RM181,900.
2. The E variant
This is the mid spec model is priced at RM169,900.
3. The S variant
This is the entry level model that is priced at RM159,900.
The one model that was missing during the launch was the model that everyone was looking forward to, the e:HEV RS.
Honda Malaysia said that it will announce the price of the e:HEV RS in early 2024, and now the time has come.
The highly-anticipated e:HEV RS model is priced at RM195,900, which is a shockingly good price for a car that many expected to cost upwards of RM210,000.
You also get quite a lot for the price.
The all-new CRV e:HEV RS is powered by a 2.0-litre hybrid powertrain that makes 184PS and 335Nm of torque.
It sends power to the front wheels through a e-CVT transmission, but that is just Honda speak for “there’s no transmission in the traditional sense and power is sent directly to the motors”.
In terms of aesthetics, the all-new CRV is quite a looker, especially in this RS trim.
The LED headlights and tail-lights are to be expected and are complemented by LED sequential turn signals at the front, and active cornering lights that illuminate blind spots when cornering.
Inside, it is completely unrecognisable as a CRV but stays in line with the current Honda design language. The dashboard, placement of buttons and even the steering wheel is similar to the Honda Civic.
A nine-inch infotainment screen dominates the centre of the dash and gives you access to Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. And for the first time for a Honda in Malaysia, music is played back to the cabin via a 12-speaker Bose sound system, which is only available in the flagship e:HEV RS model.
The driver also enjoys a eight-way powered seat with memory function, head-up display, a wireless charger, two USB ports in the front and rear while the rear passengers can get comfortable with ample legroom and sliding seats that can recline with eight different angles.
Safety is of course the name of the game for any family mover and the CRV e:HEV RS delivers in this aspect as well. The comprehensive safety package includes eight airbags with two knee airbags, a 360-degree camera, Honda LaneWatch and Honda Connect.
The new CRV e:HEV RS also boasts nine Honda Sensing functions including Adaptive Driving Beam.
And being well-adapted for families, the all-new Honda CRV also offers great practicality with a class-leading 598-litres boot capacity. There is also a hands-free powered tailgate with Walkaway Close function, which basically means you can simply walk away from the car, and as long as the key is with you, the tail-gate will close automatically.
We drove the all-new Honda CRV e:HEV RS in Thailand before its launch and were particularly impressed with how smooth it was. We later found out that this was down to new body stabilising seats that are more comfortable than ever, and the new CRV also has wheel resonators that practically munch all vibrations before they reach the cabin, giving you an impressively smooth ride.
Volkswagen has set a new standard in automotive technology by announcing the integration of ChatGPT AI chatbot into its IDA voice assistant, unveiled at CES 2024. This groundbreaking move makes Volkswagen the first volume manufacturer to introduce ChatGPT as a standard feature in its production vehicles, starting in the second quarter of 2024.
The AI integration, powered by Cerence Chat Pro from technology partner Cerence Inc., is set to enhance the driving experience in various Volkswagen models equipped with the latest generation of infotainment. The following models will boast this innovative feature: ID.7, ID.4, ID.5, ID.3, Tiguan, Passat, and Golf.
Intelligent Functionality for Enhanced Connectivity
Volkswagen’s IDA voice assistant, complemented by ChatGPT, will serve as an intelligent AI database in the specified models. The system can read out content to users while driving, adding a new layer of interaction and convenience. The AI chatbot functionality is seamlessly integrated into controlling infotainment, navigation, air conditioning, and answering general knowledge questions.
