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BYD Introduces 2026 Qin L DM-i with 2,148km of Driving Range!

BYD has unveiled the 2026 Qin L DM-i, its latest plug-in hybrid sedan that brings a series of updates to interior controls, digital connectivity, and fuel efficiency. The new model delivers a pure-electric range of 128 km and achieves a remarkable NEDC-rated fuel consumption of 2.79 L/100 km, with a total driving range of 2,148 km. Two variants are available, priced between 92,800 yuan (around RM60,700) and 102,800 yuan (around RM67,200) during the launch period.

The 2026 Qin L DM-i continues to express BYD’s “New National Trend Dragon Face” design philosophy. The front fascia has been refined with a wide lower grille and sleek headlights connected by upward “dragon whisker” LED elements, adding visual width and a distinct character. The overall design maintains the sedan’s aerodynamic balance while giving it a more polished, modern appearance.

Inside, the cabin adopts a cleaner and more practical layout. The traditional gear lever has been replaced with a column-mounted selector, freeing up space on the centre console. The new DiLink100 infotainment system introduces an enhanced interface with features such as a pet-themed display mode and an integrated karaoke system that functions without a microphone. Navigation is now more intuitive—drivers can sync destinations from their smartphones using a long-press drag or even a shake gesture. Music subscriptions can also be shared seamlessly between the car’s system and the user’s mobile device, creating a connected digital environment.’

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Xpeng Unveils Extended-Range X9 MPV with 1,602km Driving Range

Xpeng has introduced the extended-range version of its X9, a seven-seater mid-to-large MPV that combines long-distance capability with modern electric performance. While maintaining the familiar form of the fully electric X9, the new version features minor design updates and adds a range-extending powertrain that significantly boosts total driving distance. The new model will officially launch in the fourth quarter of 2025.

At the core of the new X9 is Xpeng’s Kunpeng super-extended-range system, which pairs a 1.5-litre turbocharged range extender (DAM15NTE) producing 148hp with a high-capacity 63.3kWh battery pack. The vehicle operates on an 800V high-voltage platform and supports 5C ultra-fast charging.

Under CLTC testing, it offers 452km of pure electric range and an impressive combined range of 1,602km. Official figures list combined fuel consumption at 0.15L/100km, or 6.4L/100km under certain conditions, highlighting its efficiency.

The exterior design largely mirrors the electric X9, with a few refinements. It adopts a split headlight layout complemented by three-stage LED daytime running lights and a closed front grille flanked by vertical air intakes. A new Aurora Blue exterior colour joins the range, while the front bumper incorporates an active dual-stage cooling system for improved aerodynamics.

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Government Tightens Speed Limiter Enforcement for Heavy Vehicles

The Ministry of Transport has intensified its efforts to improve road safety, issuing 4,295 notices to heavy vehicle owners to verify the installation of Speed Limiter Devices (SLD). The initiative forms part of the government’s ongoing campaign to curb accidents involving commercial and heavy vehicles caused by excessive speeding.

Transport Minister Anthony Loke said the verification process is crucial in ensuring that all affected vehicles meet mandatory safety requirements. Vehicle owners who receive a notice are required to confirm that their SLD has been installed and return to the Road Transport Department (JPJ) within 14 days for inspection and approval. Those who comply within the given timeframe will not face any penalties.

He explained that enforcement activities have already produced positive results, with more heavy vehicle operators now adhering to the installation requirement. The government’s continued oversight, he said, has encouraged stronger compliance across the industry.

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Proton Expands After-Sales Network in Sabah as X50 Retains Its Lead

Proton continues to dominate Malaysia’s SUV market, with the all-new Proton X50 maintaining its position at the top in September with 2,994 units sold, despite the extended holiday period. The strong demand reinforces the model’s popularity nationwide and highlights Proton’s need to strengthen its customer support infrastructure, particularly in East Malaysia.

To meet the growing ownership base, Proton is expanding its after-sales network in Sabah by enhancing the operations of its Regional Parts Centre (RPC) in Kota Kinabalu. The facility plays a key role as the brand’s main logistics and distribution hub for East Malaysia, ensuring that spare parts reach dealers and service centres quickly and efficiently. Urgent orders can now be fulfilled within 24 hours, while regular stock replenishments take just two days — a clear step forward in supporting the increasing number of Proton vehicles on the road.

The 28,000-square-foot centre, located in Inanam, was set up last year to streamline Proton’s parts distribution network in the region. It processes up to 20 containers each month and can handle six containers simultaneously. With an inventory capable of sustaining three to three-and-a-half months of supply, the RPC maintains healthy stock levels to keep pace with service demands. Its ability to receive direct imports further strengthens Proton’s logistics chain, particularly for Sabah and northern Sarawak.

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Porsche Working on New W18 Engine Design

Porsche has filed a new patent for a W18 engine — an engine with 18 cylinders, which is more than any engine currently in production. The patent, discovered by CarBuzz, was filed with the World Intellectual Property Organization and shows Porsche’s latest effort to make engines that are powerful but still efficient.

This new W18 engine is different from older “W” engines used by brands like Bentley and Bugatti under the Volkswagen Group. Those older designs were basically two V-shaped engines combined. Porsche’s new idea uses three separate cylinder banks, each with six cylinders, forming a real W shape.

The design could be changed easily. Porsche says it could also be built as a W12 (12 cylinders), W9 (9 cylinders), or even a W15 (15 cylinders) depending on what’s needed for different cars — from luxury SUVs to supercars.

Each cylinder bank has its own air intake system on top, which helps the engine breathe better and stay cooler. The air flows straight down into the engine, reducing resistance and improving performance. The exhaust system is designed to keep the intake air cool, which also increases power and efficiency.

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Proton e.MAS 7 Launched in Mauritius – Priced From RM157,153!

Big news from Proton International Corporation (PICSB)! They’ve officially rolled out the Proton e.MAS 7 in Mauritius.

This is kind of a big deal, as it makes Mauritius the fourth international spot to get Proton’s very first electric vehicle (EV). It’s only been about ten months since the car first launched in Malaysia, and it just recently helped Proton get back into the Singapore market, too. Clearly, the e.MAS 7 is already a hit—it’s now Proton’s third best-selling export model, right behind the classic Saga and the popular X50.

A Big Step for Proton’s EV Plan:
Launching the e.MAS 7 in new countries is a huge move for Proton. It really shows they’re serious about growing internationally and leading the charge in New Energy Vehicles (NEVs). PROTON is quickly becoming a major EV player in the region, and the demand proves it! They’ve delivered over 6,500 units both at home and abroad since the car debuted.

This whole expansion plan is powered by Proton’s smart investments in electrification. They built a brand-new EV plant in Malaysia that can pump out up to 45,000 EVs a year. That facility is key to Proton’s goal of hitting 250,000 export units over the next few years and helping the world move toward sustainable driving.

Partnership and Power
PROTON’s been working with their trusted partner, Autonexx, for over 35 years in Mauritius, and this EV launch is just the latest success story. They both share the same goal: making electric mobility the future in Mauritius.

So, what about the car itself? The e.MAS 7 is offered in two variants in Mauritius—Prime and Premium. It’s offered with the same 5-star ASEAN NCAP rating and shares the same specifications too.

It can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 7.1 seconds. The electric drive unit packs a punch with 214hp of power and 320 Nm of torque.

It runs on advanced AEGIS Short Blade battery cells, and its 60.22 kWh battery gives you a WLTP-rated range of 410 km.

To make going electric worry-free, PROTON is offering a comprehensive warranty of 6 years or 150,000 km for the car, and an 8-year or 160,000 km warranty for the high-voltage battery and components.

To celebrate the arrival, Proton Mauritius is offering an awesome early-bird promotion for the first 30 customers!

• The e.MAS 7 Prime is priced at Rs 1,690,000 (on the road, excluding insurance) (RM157,153) and comes with a free wallbox charger and a free e.motion card.
• The Premium version is Rs 1,850,000 (on the road, excluding insurance) (RM172,031) and includes the free wallbox charger and e.motion card, plus five years of free servicing (or up to 150,000 km).

If you are wondering why the Proton e.MAS 7 is much more expensive in Mauritius than in Malaysia, well that is because of the heavy taxation and excise duties that the government imposes on imported cars, something like what they Malaysian government does. Up to 100% in certain cases. On top of that, there is also a further 15% value added tax imposed.

BHPetrol Invigorates Bandar Tun Razak Station With New Image & Facilities

BHPetrol today officially launched the newly upgraded and rebranded BHPetrol Bandar Tun Razak station. The station, which originally operated under the BP brand since 1996, transitioned to BHPetrol in 2006 and continues to operate under the local BHPetrol brand.

The station offers BHPetrol Infiniti Petrol 95, 97, Diesel B10, and Diesel B7, for drivers in the Kuala Lumpur area. It also ensures customers continue to enjoy subsidised petrol prices through government mechanisms like the BUDI95 programme.

Beyond fuel, the station is strategically designed as a daily convenience hub for consumers, equipped with:

• BHPetromart convenience store
• Prayer rooms (Surau)
• Kenangan Coffee outlet
• Large and clean washrooms

The launching ceremony was officiated by Encik Ismadi bin Sakirin (DBKL Socio-Economic Development Executive Director) and Ir. Azizul Azily Ahmad (BHPetrol Chief Executive Officer).

Ir. Azizul Azily Ahmad emphasised that the role of a petrol station extends beyond just supplying fuel; it also serves as a central point for daily consumer convenience. He also expressed hope that the strategic cooperation with DBKL and PDRM will continue to bring positive impact to both the business and consumers as a whole.

Chery Unveils Major Multi-Brand Strategy: New Electric SUVs and Premium Lineup Coming to Malaysia

Chery has declared a major strategic shift, moving beyond a single brand to become a comprehensive mobility solutions provider. At the recent Chery International User Summit 2025, themed “Co-Create, Co-Define: The New Move,” the company unveiled a multi-brand lineup specifically designed to meet the diverse needs of Malaysian consumers.

Chery Corporate Malaysia played a key role in the global summit, which laid out the future for its entire portfolio: the flagship Chery brand, the dynamic crossover duo Omoda-Jaecoo, the rugged electric brand icaur, and the sophisticated new premium electric marque, Lepas.

1. The Core Chery Brand: A SUV Co-Created with Malaysian Input

The core Chery brand debuted the world’s first 7-Seater Transformable Multi-SUV. This innovative vehicle is a direct result of the company’s “Co-create and Co-define” philosophy, incorporating over 40,000 pieces of global user feedback, including key insights from Malaysia.

The SUV features a unique 6 in 1 formula, allowing it to transform into six different configurations—ranging from a spacious seven-seater family vehicle to a practical pickup truck—redefining versatility for modern drivers.

2. Omoda Jaecoo: Rapid Growth and Hybrid Tech Breakthroughs

The Omoda Jaecoo brands are seeing explosive growth, achieving outstanding global sales of 32,840 units in September 2025, a 39% year-on-year increase. Notably, New Energy Vehicles (NEVs) currently account for 57% of their total sales.

Key highlights from the summit include:

Engine Innovation: Unveiled hybrid powertrains that reached a record 48% engine thermal efficiency.
New Tech: Showcased advancements in solid-state batteries and a new high-performance model, the Omoda 9 SHS, featuring quad-motor AWD hybrid technology.
Future Focus: The brand reinforced its commitment to intelligence and sustainability with the display of the AiMOGA-developed Mojia Robot.

3. iCaur: The New Classic Electric Off-Roader

The iCaur brand is entering the New Energy Vehicle (NEV) sector by focusing on “New Classics.” Its full lineup of electric off-road vehicles features bold, clean, and vintage-inspired designs.

The brand’s identity is centered on personalisation. iCaur will offer a vast ecosystem of bespoke parts and accessories, allowing Malaysian consumers to fully customise their electric vehicle and make a personal style statement.

4. Lepas: The Premium, Elegant Electric Experience

Set to officially launch in Malaysia in the first half of 2026, Lepas is Chery’s new independent global brand positioned at the premium end of the New Energy Vehicle market.

Elegant Technology: Lepas introduced a new framework built on a forward-engineered platform and advanced electric systems, focusing on efficiency, stability, and an intelligent cockpit designed for emotional connection and safety.

Innovative Retail: The brand debuted its first global Elegant Lifestyle House, a non-traditional retail space designed like a miniature urban block where customers can immerse themselves in the brand’s world.

Ambitious Goal: Lepas plans to launch eight new models within three years, aiming to become the global synonym for “Elegant Driving.”

A Unified Vision for the Malaysian Market:

“This summit is a clear declaration of our future,” said Mr. Men Lin Bo, Executive Vice President of Chery Corporate Malaysia. “We are transitioning into a comprehensive mobility solutions provider.”

The executive confirmed that the new Chery, Omoda Jaecoo, iCaur, and Lepas portfolios provide an “unparalleled toolkit” to meet the rapidly evolving and diverse needs of Malaysian consumers, ensuring that the brand experiences are finely tuned to local tastes.

You Can Be Fined in Malaysia For Not Being Properly Dressed When Driving

Did you know that you could be issued a fine by the Road Transport Department (JPJ) if you are not dressed appropriately when driving? If you are an e-hailing or commercial vehicle driver that is.

Recently an e-hailing driver from Langkawi, Kedah shared his experience with JPJ officers where he was issued a fine for wearing a round neck t-shirt instead of a collared one.

Posting on Facebook, the driver detailed his shocking experience where he lamented about his experience with the enforcement officer.

“This is the first time I have been issued a ticket by JPJ in 30 years of driving,” he said in the now removed post.

“Even though this is my first offence with JPJ, no warning, no compromise, I was just told to sign the fine and not talk too much,” he said in the post.

He was issued a fine for wearing a collarless t-shirt.

The fine was issued under the K15(b) PSV (LCDCP) 1959 T act where a driver can be issued a fine for not being appropriately dressed. If found guilty, the offender can be issued a fine ranging from RM150 which can go up to RM300 if not paid within 60 days.

The e-hailing driver expressed his frustration but conveyed his respect to the JPJ officer for being firm in upholding the law as well.

If you did not know, drivers of commercial vehicles including e-hailing vehicles and taxis need to be appropriately dressed at all times. The attire usually includes collared t-shirts, long pants and proper shoes as well.

smart Malaysia Opens Bookings for the All-New smart #5

Following its first public appearance at the Malaysia Autoshow 2025, smart Malaysia has officially opened bookings for the All-New smart #5, the latest addition to its all-electric line-up.

Presented under the theme ‘Contemporary Adventurer’, the smart #5 represents a new direction for the marque – one that blends ruggedness, refinement, and electric innovation.