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Armor All Unveils Premium Podium Series in Malaysia with Red Bull Racing Partnership

Armor All, the renowned name in automotive care and a brand under Energizer Holdings Inc., has officially launched its high-performance Armor All Podium Series in Malaysia. Developed through an exclusive partnership with Oracle Red Bull Racing, the new product line made its debut alongside a special public event at Elmina Lakeside Mall, designed to showcase its premium capabilities while engaging local car enthusiasts and families alike.

The event highlighted the standout product from the range—the Armor All Podium Series Interior Detailer—alongside demonstrations of its trusted exterior offerings. Visitors were treated to complimentary car wash services, giving them a hands-on introduction to the advanced formulations now available to the Malaysian market.

This new Podium Series represents a significant leap in car care technology, incorporating hybrid ceramic formulas based on advanced SiO₂ compounds. The result is a range that provides exceptional surface protection, long-lasting water repellency, and high durability across various vehicle surfaces. The collection has been designed with both professional detailers and everyday car owners in mind, combining performance with ease of use to suit Malaysia’s climate and urban driving conditions.

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Maserati Electrifies Malaysia with the Debut of GranTurismo and Grecale Folgore

Maserati has officially ushered in a new chapter of automotive innovation in Malaysia, introducing its first all-electric models, the GranTurismo Folgore and Grecale Folgore. These new additions not only signal the brand’s commitment to electrification but also mark Maserati as the first Italian luxury manufacturer to fully embrace electric mobility.

The GranTurismo Folgore represents a striking blend of performance and poise, embodying the elegance of a traditional grand tourer reimagined for the future. Powered by three radial electric motors, it produces a formidable 750hp, enabling the coupe to sprint from zero to 100km/h in a mere 2.7 seconds and reach a top speed of 325 km/h. At the heart of this performance lies a 92.5 kWh battery pack, with 83 kWh usable capacity, offering a WLTP-certified range of up to 450km. Thanks to its advanced 800-volt electrical system, the vehicle can regain 100 kilometres of range in just five minutes, while a charge from 20% to 80% takes only 18 minutes.

Inside, the GranTurismo Folgore delivers a refined and contemporary experience, with a minimalist interior designed around intuitive technology and tactile luxury. Despite its sleek silhouette, it offers 270 litres of boot space, ensuring everyday practicality. Priced from RM998,800, the model combines timeless Italian design with cutting-edge performance, bringing a fresh definition to the grand touring experience.

The Grecale Folgore, Maserati’s all-electric SUV, offers a different expression of the brand’s electric vision—designed for both urban commuting and adventurous getaways. Equipped with two motors generating a total of 549hp, the Grecale accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.1 seconds and reaches a top speed of 220 km/h. A 105 kWh battery delivers up to 500 kilometres of range, supported by an AC onboard charger of 22 kW for convenient overnight charging. For quicker top-ups, 100 kilometres of range can be restored in just nine minutes.

Practicality meets Italian artistry in the Grecale’s interior, which offers 535 litres of luggage space and a meticulously crafted environment tailored to modern lifestyles. Starting at RM588,000, the SUV stands as a testament to Maserati’s ability to merge electric performance with daily versatility.

The name “Folgore,” meaning lightning in Italian, encapsulates Maserati’s forward-looking ethos—a symbol of power, energy, and progress. With the launch of these fully electric models, Maserati Malaysia redefines what it means to drive a luxury Italian vehicle in the electric age.

The GranTurismo Folgore and Grecale Folgore are now available for viewing at authorised Maserati showrooms nationwide, offering Malaysians a firsthand glimpse into the brand’s electrified future.

Volkswagen’s MOIA Unveils Production-Ready ID. Buzz AD, Ushering in a New Era of Autonomous Mobility

Volkswagen’s mobility division, MOIA, has officially revealed the production version of its much-anticipated autonomous electric van, the ID. Buzz AD. The vehicle represents a pivotal step in Volkswagen’s efforts to redefine future mobility solutions, targeting commercial fleets and transport operators in both Europe and the United States.

The unveiling of the ID. Buzz AD comes amid intensified competition in the autonomous vehicle sector, just days after Tesla announced it would begin trial operations of its Robotaxi service in Austin, Texas, on 22 June. While Tesla’s approach centres on passenger ride-hailing services, Volkswagen is carving a distinct path by focusing on corporate clients and mobility service providers.

Engineered to meet Level 4 autonomous driving standards, the ID. Buzz AD has been purpose-built for mobility service deployment. The design features a stretched wheelbase and an elevated roof to maximise cabin space and passenger comfort. Entry into the vehicle is facilitated via smartphone, suggesting a seamless app-based access system.

Inside, the cabin is tailored for shared travel, offering four spacious passenger seats, wood-style flooring, and large grab handles for ease of movement. Functional controls, including SOS, Support, and Start/Stop buttons, are integrated for added safety and convenience. MOIA has also incorporated onboard artificial intelligence, designed to maintain passenger comfort while ensuring operational safety.

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Chery Launches 2026 Tiggo 7 Sport and Tiggo 7 Plus in China, Aiming at Budget-Conscious SUV Buyers

Chery has officially unveiled the 2026 Tiggo 7 Sport and Tiggo 7 Plus SUVs in the Chinese market, introducing refreshed styling, enhanced features, and competitive pricing to appeal to budget-focused consumers. The new Tiggo 7 Sport carries a starting price of 87,900 yuan (around RM57,400), while the Tiggo 7 Plus is offered from 91,900 yuan (around RM60,100).

The Tiggo 7 Sport debuts with a newly introduced 1.5-litre turbocharged engine, producing 154hp and 230Nm of torque, mated to a 6-speed wet dual-clutch transmission. This joins the previously available 1.6T engine variant, delivering 194hp and 290Nm via a 7-speed DCT. Marketed as the sportier, more youthful counterpart to the Tiggo 7 Plus, the Sport version is designed to appeal to style-conscious, performance-leaning buyers.

From a design perspective, the Tiggo 7 Sport retains signature Chery elements such as the split LED headlight configuration, a large trapezoidal mesh grille, floating roof design, and hidden door handles. Riding on 18-inch alloy wheels, it is available in four paint options: Glacier Silver, Cangyan Grey, Graphite Black, and Pearl White.

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Hyundai Charts a New Course in Malaysia with the Launch of Hyundai Motor Malaysia

Hyundai Motor Company has taken a major step in its expansion strategy with the establishment of Hyundai Motor Malaysia (HMY), marking the brand’s transition from a distributor-led presence to a direct, principal-led operation in the country. This shift signifies Hyundai’s deeper commitment to the Malaysian market, a strategic move that aims to foster long-term growth, strengthen customer engagement, and accelerate innovation.

With this change, Hyundai assumes full responsibility for all aspects of its operations in Malaysia, including marketing, branding, sales, and customer service. This new structure empowers a locally based team to make faster, more relevant decisions and tailor its approach to the unique demands of Malaysian consumers.

HMY is the latest expression of Hyundai’s global ambition to “drive Progress for Humanity,” reinforcing Malaysia’s position as a key growth market in Southeast Asia. Hyundai is now laying the groundwork for a robust dealer network and on-ground initiatives that will solidify its presence. Its new headquarters at Menara Affin @TRX in Kuala Lumpur symbolises its aspiration to be at the centre of progress and innovation in Malaysia.

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iCAUR 03 Electrifies Malaysia with Local Preview and Off-Road Showcase

Malaysia has become the first international market outside of China to preview the iCAUR 03, the nation’s first fully electric off-road-capable SUV, following its global debut in Shanghai. Marking a new chapter for the country’s electric vehicle sector, the iCAUR 03 promises a bold blend of adventure, innovation, and cutting-edge engineering.

The new model made its local debut at the Malaysia Autoshow 2025 and is now being showcased at a specially curated iEXPERIENCE Off-Road Test Drive event held at 1 Utama Shopping Centre. Visitors and members of the media have been invited to experience the SUV’s off-road capabilities on a purpose-built course that brings to life the vehicle’s advanced engineering and electrified performance.

Emily Lek, Vice President of iCAUR Malaysia, described the iCAUR 03 as the brand’s entry point into the Malaysian market, stating that the model introduces a new era of smart electric off-road vehicles designed to provide both capability and premium ownership experiences. She noted that the slogan “Born to Play” captures the essence of the brand, which combines intelligence, design, and robust utility under its distinctive illuminated ‘i’ badge.

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Chery Launches Safety Challenge in Indonesia, Puts Hybrid SUV Battery to the Test in Extreme Humidity

Chery has unveiled the second phase of its global Chery Safety Challenge campaign in Indonesia, with a strong focus on battery safety under high-humidity conditions. The initiative forms part of the brand’s ongoing efforts to prove the durability and reliability of its electrified vehicles through rigorous, real-world testing across diverse climates.

Indonesia’s tropical and moisture-heavy environment has been selected as the latest proving ground for Chery’s flagship plug-in hybrid SUV, the TIGGO 8 PRO CSH. The vehicle, already subjected to a gruelling 48-hour stress test involving a seven-car vertical stack in Wuhu, China, will now face another extreme scenario — operating in one of the world’s most humid climates. The latest challenge aims to underscore the robustness of Chery’s battery systems when exposed to prolonged damp conditions, a key concern for consumers in Southeast Asia.

This testing programme follows a series of extreme safety assessments conducted in China, including spiral rollovers and high-impact dual-vehicle collisions. By taking its battery safety campaign to international terrain, Chery is reinforcing its dedication to product development that adapts to the specific demands of each market. The campaign forms a core element of Chery’s global strategy, aptly titled “In Somewhere, For Somewhere”, which prioritises localisation in both vehicle design and validation.

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MG Motor Malaysia Rolls Out Mid-Year Offers on MG5 Sedan and MG4 EV

MG Motor Malaysia is drawing attention to affordable car ownership this mid-year with enticing promotions on two of its flagship models — the MG5 sedan and the all-electric MG4. These limited-time offers underscore the brand’s continued mission to make stylish, high-quality vehicles more accessible to Malaysian motorists.

The MG5, the largest model in its B-segment class, is now being offered at RM86,900, reflecting a price reduction of RM7,000 from its original recommended retail price of RM93,900. This sedan, known for its sleek design, spacious interior, and smooth driving dynamics, has been tailored for those who value everyday practicality coupled with comfort and visual appeal.

For drivers contemplating a shift to electric mobility, MG has reinforced its commitment through the “Drive Now, Pay Later” campaign, targeting the award-winning MG4. Under this initiative, buyers of the MG4 Lux can benefit from up to 12 months of complimentary instalments, while those opting for the MG4 Standard will enjoy up to 8 months of the same. The campaign aims to remove initial financial barriers, giving prospective EV owners a head start with greater confidence and ease. These promotions are subject to terms and conditions.

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Allianz Malaysia Calls for Harsher Penalties to Tackle Widespread Motor Insurance Fraud

Allianz Malaysia Bhd has called on the authorities to introduce stronger penalties and clearer regulations to curb motor insurance fraud, which continues to drain the industry of approximately RM1 billion annually. The company’s Chief Executive Officer, Sean Wang, stressed that current legal provisions addressing fraud and misconduct fall short when it comes to dealing with the tactics employed by unscrupulous tow truck operators and workshops.

Wang highlighted that while existing laws indirectly touch on fraudulent practices, they do not adequately address the scale and complexity of the issue. According to FMT, he estimated that around 10% of the industry’s RM10 billion total annual motor claims are lost to inflated or manipulated claims.

He pointed to a deeply entrenched network of touts, tow truck operators, and complicit workshops who have long operated by inflating repair costs. These claims are often exaggerated by 15% to 20%, resulting in substantial financial losses for insurers. Touts are known to patrol busy urban areas, especially on motorcycles, and race to accident scenes where they quickly offer towing services under the guise of being affiliated with insurance providers.

Once a vehicle is in their hands, these operators typically delay informing insurers and may hold onto vehicles for days or even weeks while negotiating with workshops willing to overcharge for repairs. In some cases, substandard parts are used or unnecessary work is performed to justify higher claim amounts. According to Wang, this practice has persisted for more than 40 years, misleading policyholders into believing their insurance provider is handling the repairs when in fact, the vehicle is in the custody of unverified agents.

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Ferrari Postpones Second Electric Vehicle Launch Amid Weak Demand for High-Performance EVs

Ferrari’s much-anticipated push towards full electrification has encountered a notable setback, with plans for its second fully electric vehicle now postponed until at least 2028. Initially scheduled for launch by the end of 2026, the project has been delayed by two years, according to sources with direct knowledge of the matter.

Two insiders speaking to Reuters revealed that the decision stems from underwhelming market demand, even among the brand’s typically loyal and affluent clientele. Ferrari had intended to follow its first electric model with a second in quick succession as part of a broader electrification strategy. However, revised internal projections have forced the Italian marque to reassess the viability of this approach.

The sources pointed to a significant disconnect between expectations and current consumer appetite, with one noting that sustainable demand for high-performance EVs is virtually non-existent at present. While Ferrari remains confident in the long-term prospects of electric mobility, it has become evident that the market is not yet ready to fully embrace electric supercars at a scale that would ensure profitability.

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