English Archives

Piston.my

English

Volvo Malaysia Introduces Lifetime Parts Warranty for Added Peace of Mind

Volvo Car Malaysia has reintroduced its pioneering aftersales assurance initiative under a new name — the Volvo Genuine Parts Extended Warranty programme. This industry-first scheme offers a lifetime warranty at no extra cost on Volvo Genuine Parts that are installed at authorised Volvo dealerships across the country, setting a new standard in the premium car segment.

The programme is designed especially for customers whose vehicles have exceeded the standard manufacturer’s warranty, giving them continued confidence and long-term protection. It reflects Volvo’s ongoing dedication to product quality, customer care, and reducing overall ownership costs. True to Volvo’s promise of safety and reliability, these parts are guaranteed to be “For Life.”

Unlike the standard new-car warranty, the Volvo Genuine Parts Extended Warranty covers both the cost of parts and labour for all eligible replacements carried out by authorised dealers, with no additional charges beyond the price of the part and its installation. The coverage applies for the lifetime of the part, ensuring customers enjoy complete peace of mind long after the original warranty period has ended.

(more…)

You Can Save On Your Car Loan With New Revamp of Rules

Car buyers in Malaysia will soon get fairer car loans after the government decided to remove the old “Rule of 78.” This rule has been used for decades in hire-purchase loans but was often seen as unfair. The change comes with the new Hire-Purchase (Amendment) Bill 2025, passed on October 8, which replaces the old system with a fairer one.

Before this, car buyers had to pay most of their loan interest at the start of their repayment. This meant that if they paid off the loan early, they didn’t save much money. Because of that, many people chose longer loan terms instead of finishing payments sooner.

Now, with the new “reducing-balance” system, interest will be charged only on the remaining loan amount, not the total borrowed. This means buyers who pay early or take shorter loans will save more money. Banks must also clearly show the real interest rate to customers.

(more…)

BYD Shark in Malaysia – What To Expect!

BYD is officially bringing its first-ever pickup truck, the Shark, to Malaysia, a move that marks the brand’s entry into one of the most competitive vehicle segments in the market. This follows the Shark’s successful launches in regions like Mexico and Thailand, and Malaysian buyers can expect a showcase of the model soon before its official arrival.

The BYD Shark represents a significant step forward for the Chinese automaker as it expands from electric passenger cars into the pickup market. Unlike traditional diesel-powered rivals, the Shark is a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) that blends practicality with high performance and efficiency.

Under the hood, the Shark features BYD’s advanced Dual-Mode Off-Road hybrid system. It pairs a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine with electric motors to deliver a combined output of around 430PS and 650Nm of torque. This powertrain enables the Shark to accelerate from 0–100km/h in just 5.7 seconds, outpacing most conventional pickups on the road.

Equipped with BYD’s signature Blade LFP battery (29.6 kWh), the Shark offers up to 100km of electric-only range, ideal for daily urban commutes without using fuel. When combined with its petrol engine, the truck can travel up to 840km on a full charge and tank. Charging options include both AC and DC capabilities, along with Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) functionality, allowing owners to power electrical devices directly from the vehicle.

(more…)

Proton e.MAS 7 Maintains EV Leadership as e.MAS 5 Bookings Surge Past 10,000 Units

PRO-NET, the subsidiary of Proton leading the brand’s electric mobility efforts, has reached another major milestone in its e.MAS EV journey. The Proton e.MAS 7 continues to dominate the market as Malaysia’s best-selling electric vehicle, recording a total of 7,413 units sold as of 31 October 2025.

Of this number, 6,954 units were sold locally, while 459 were exported. This marks ten consecutive months at the top for the e.MAS 7, reinforcing Proton’s strong position in the nation’s growing EV sector.

Alongside this success, the newly launched Proton e.MAS 5 — Malaysia’s first truly affordable EV — is making waves of its own. The model has already received more than 10,000 bookings nationwide, signalling a major shift in public interest towards electric mobility.

Interest in the Proton e.MAS 5 is strongest in the Central Region, followed by Southern and Northern Malaysia. Demand in East Malaysia and the East Coast is also climbing, showing that enthusiasm for Malaysia’s first affordable EV extends across the country.

(more…)

Loke: Physical Driving Licences Soon Come with a Fee, Digital Version Stays Free

Malaysia’s Ministry of Transport is making a significant leap into digitalisation by moving vehicle licenses and registration documents from traditional physical cards to a fully digital platform. During a podcast with Cilisos, Transport Minister Anthony Loke highlighted that the initiative forms part of a wider plan to modernise public services, enhance efficiency, and substantially reduce government spending.

Currently, printing physical licenses and related documents costs the government over RM100 million annually. By introducing a digital system, the government expects to save this amount while still offering drivers the option to obtain a physical card for a fee of RM10 to RM16. Loke emphasised that not every driver requires a physical license, and moving online will streamline administrative processes, cut costs, and resolve common printing issues.

With around 15 to 16 million active drivers in Malaysia, the transition represents a major logistical effort. The Ministry acknowledges that there may be minor challenges or complaints during the early stages of the rollout, but the long-term benefits—including financial savings and improved service delivery—are expected to outweigh any temporary disruptions.

(more…)

Perodua Gears Up to Launch Its First Fully Malaysian Electric Vehicle

Perusahaan Otomobil Kedua Sdn Bhd (Perodua) is preparing to introduce its first electric vehicle (EV) that meets national standards by the end of this month, marking a significant milestone in Malaysia’s automotive journey.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim confirmed the upcoming launch during his visit and engagement session with Perodua employees. As both the Prime Minister and Finance Minister, Anwar highlighted that this locally developed EV represents more than just a new product—it reflects Malaysia’s broader ambition to drive forward its National Agenda.

He explained that the upcoming Perodua EV has been designed to align with the country’s economic and environmental objectives. According to him, the car will not only be affordable but will also serve as a model that caters to the needs of Malaysians while strengthening the national economy.

(more…)

Xpeng Reveals High-Tech X9 Ultra Electric MPV with Triple AI Chips and Dual-Motor Power

Xpeng has officially unveiled the X9 Ultra, a new high-performance, all-electric version of its X9 MPV, offering major upgrades in intelligence, performance, and design. Details of the upcoming flagship model were recently confirmed through China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT), giving a first look at what will be Xpeng’s most advanced people-mover to date.

The X9 Ultra stands out for being equipped with three of Xpeng’s in-house Turing AI chips, collectively delivering a massive 2,250 TOPS of computing power. Two of these chips manage the brand’s VLA large model — the system responsible for advanced driver-assistance features — while the third powers the VLM large model that governs the intelligent cockpit. Together, they enable smoother interaction, more accurate environmental perception, and a smarter in-car experience designed to rival top-tier luxury EVs.

The new variant will be available in both two-wheel-drive and four-wheel-drive configurations, with power coming from ternary lithium batteries supplied by CALB. The single-motor setup generates 315hp, while the dual-motor all-wheel-drive version pairs the same front motor with an additional 181hp rear motor for improved traction and performance.

(more…)

Chery Launches All-New 2026 Tiggo 8 in China with Dual Designs and Powertrain Options

Chery has officially unveiled the 2026 Tiggo 8, marking the fifth generation of its popular SUV nameplate. The new model, launched in China, introduces a bolder design language, upgraded technology, and a more refined driving experience, reaffirming Chery’s commitment to innovation in the mid-size SUV segment. The Tiggo 8 is now available in four variants, priced between 99,900 and 129,900 yuan (around RM65,000 to RM85,000), and is positioned as a premium, family-oriented five-seater.

From the outside, the new Tiggo 8 stands out with its fresh interpretation of Chery’s large-family design philosophy. Buyers can choose between two distinct front-end looks — the “Tiger” and the “Leopard.” Both share an assertive presence, featuring split-type matrix LED headlights and bold grille designs. The Tiger adopts a tooth-edged motif, while the Leopard’s grille features sharp, blade-like elements. Generous use of chrome accents further enhances the SUV’s premium appeal.

Along the sides, the “Hunting Shadow” body design introduces a dynamic and streamlined profile, accentuated by blacked-out wheel arches, roof pillars, and chrome window surrounds that give it a sporty yet elegant appearance. At the rear, a full-width LED light bar and large “CHERY” lettering give the SUV a strong visual identity.

Inside, Chery has given the Tiggo 8 a complete makeover with two distinctive cabin themes — the “Dawn Forest Wrap” for the Tiger and the “Galaxy Jungle Dynamic” for the Leopard. Both variants feature large digital displays, including a 15.6-inch infotainment screen paired with a 13.2-inch secondary display and a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster.

(more…)

All-New Toyota Hilux Makes Its Global Debut in Thailand — Now Offered with ICE and BEV Options

Toyota has officially pulled the covers off the all-new Hilux in Thailand, signalling a major evolution for one of the brand’s longest-running and most trusted nameplates. With a heritage built on toughness, reliability, and endurance, this ninth-generation Hilux enters a new era — blending Toyota’s legendary durability with electrified innovation.

For the first time, the Hilux will be offered with both internal combustion (ICE) and fully electric (BEV) powertrains, reflecting Toyota’s multi-pathway approach to sustainable mobility. This strategy ensures that customers around the world can choose the powertrain that best fits their lifestyle and environment. Market rollouts for both versions are expected to begin from the 2026 fiscal year.

Since its introduction in 1968, the Hilux has been a symbol of dependability, trusted by millions across more than 195 countries. Over the decades, it has evolved from a rugged workhorse into a versatile, all-purpose vehicle — one equally at home on farms, construction sites, or family adventures. The new generation builds upon that legacy, positioning the Hilux as what Toyota calls a true “Partner for Life,” combining strength with practicality, and capability with everyday usability.

The latest model has been designed with versatility at its core. Whether tackling rough terrains, navigating city traffic, or handling demanding work conditions, the Hilux continues to deliver. It embodies Toyota’s long-standing philosophy of “Mobility for All” by catering to a broad range of users and lifestyles, reinforcing its reputation as one of the most dependable pickups in the world.

(more…)

BYD Atto 3 Gains More Power and Longer Range with New 74.9 kWh Battery in China

BYD is giving its popular Atto 3 a significant update, with the latest version — known as the Yuan Plus in China — set to feature a larger 74.88 kWh Blade battery pack capable of delivering up to 650 km of range under the CLTC cycle. Details of the refreshed model surfaced through the Chinese Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT), hinting at a strong performance and efficiency boost for the electric crossover.

The current second-generation Atto 3 on sale in China is available with either a 49.92 kWh or 60.48 kWh Blade battery, offering 430 km and 510 km of range, respectively. The jump to a 74.88 kWh unit marks a major step forward in driving distance, making the new Atto 3 one of the longest-range electric crossovers in its class.

Beyond the upgraded battery, BYD has also enhanced performance. The updated Atto 3 will use a new TZ200XYC permanent magnet motor rated at 308hp, representing a 107hp increase over the outgoing 201hp unit. The extra power also raises the top speed from 160 km/h to 180 km/h, aligning the model more closely with the brand’s higher-tier offerings.

(more…)