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SUV Confusion Shakes Malaysia’s E-Hailing Industry, But Government Confirms No Ban in Place

Thousands of e-hailing drivers across Malaysia were left in limbo this week after SUVs appeared to be excluded from the government’s approved vehicle list for e-hailing services, sparking confusion and concern about their livelihood. Drivers who rely on SUVs to make a living began reporting issues with permit renewals and vehicle registrations, raising fears that their cars would no longer be eligible for e-hailing use.

The uncertainty spread quickly through the driver community, with both Gabungan E-Hailing Malaysia (GEM) and the Malaysian E-Hailing Drivers Association (Mehda) confirming that they had yet to receive any official clarification from the Road Transport Department (JPJ) or the Land Public Transport Agency (APAD). GEM’s representative, Masrizal Mahidin, said SUV owners were struggling to renew their e-hailing permits, a situation that could affect thousands of active drivers nationwide. Malaysia currently has more than three million people licensed to drive for e-hailing platforms.

Mehda president Daryl Chong revealed that roughly 2,000 of his association’s 9,000 members use SUVs for e-hailing. Without an official statement from the authorities, he warned that this administrative mix-up could disrupt Malaysia’s urban transport network and harm its reputation among tourists. Grab Malaysia later confirmed that some of its SUV drivers had encountered issues during registration and that the company was engaging with the authorities to resolve the problem.

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OMODA | JAECOO Malaysia Celebrates 20,000th Vehicle Delivery in Just 14 Months

OMODA | JAECOO Malaysia has achieved a remarkable milestone with the delivery of its 20,000th vehicle, a feat reached just 14 months after the brand’s debut in July 2024. The achievement underscores the company’s rapid rise in Malaysia’s automotive landscape, backed by strong consumer trust and the global success of its parent company, Chery Group.

Since entering the Malaysian market, OMODA | JAECOO has positioned itself as a premium challenger in the SUV segment. The brand’s local line-up now includes the JAECOO J7, JAECOO J7 PHEV, OMODA C9, and JAECOO J8, supported by nearly 50 authorised dealerships, a dedicated parts warehouse, and local assembly operations at its Shah Alam plant. This strategic foundation has helped OMODA | JAECOO secure a spot among Malaysia’s Top 5 automotive marques in the first half of 2025.

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Volkswagen to Integrate Xpeng’s XNGP Autonomous Driving System into China EVs by 2026

Volkswagen is set to introduce Xpeng’s advanced autonomous driving system, known as XNGP, into its next generation of electric vehicles in China starting in 2026. The first model to receive this technology will be a mid-size SUV jointly developed with Xpeng, marking a significant milestone in Volkswagen’s evolving strategy for the Chinese market.

The system, designed by Xpeng and already proven in the company’s own models, will serve as the foundation of Volkswagen’s new approach to localised innovation in the world’s largest EV market.

The German automaker’s collaboration with Xpeng dates back to July 2023, when Volkswagen invested €700 million in the Guangzhou-based EV manufacturer, securing a 4.99% equity stake. The two companies later confirmed that they were co-developing a pair of mid-size electric SUVs, which are both set for release in 2026.

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Kia Launches the New Carnival HEV 7-Seater in Thailand

Kia Sales Thailand has officially launched the new Kia Carnival HEV 7-seater, a flagship MPV designed to blend hybrid efficiency with upscale comfort and family versatility. Marketed under the tagline “Built for Every Move of Life,” this latest version brings a strong mix of performance, technology, and practicality for modern families looking for both space and sophistication.

Under the bonnet, the Carnival HEV is powered by a 1.6-litre turbocharged engine paired with a 54 kW electric motor, delivering a combined output of 245 PS and 367 Nm of torque through a six-speed automatic transmission. Buyers can choose between two trims — the Carnival HEV Premium priced at 2,499,000 Baht (around RM323,000), and the top-tier Luxury variant at 2,699,000 Baht (around RM349,000).

The exterior carries a refreshed design that bridges the styling of an SUV with the functionality of an MPV. Kia’s signature Tiger Nose grille now sits between cube-shaped headlights and a new Star Map LED light signature at both ends. The 19-inch geometric alloy wheels give it a bold stance, while functional roof rails capable of supporting up to 100 kg add a touch of adventure-ready practicality.

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Over 100 Units of the BYD SEAL 6 Delivered in Just One Week

BYD Sime Motors, the official distributor of BYD vehicles in Malaysia, has wasted no time getting its latest model, the all-new BYD SEAL 6, into customers’ hands. In a remarkable show of efficiency, more than 100 units have already been delivered within just a week of the model’s official debut, signalling strong demand and an equally strong operational rollout.

The C-segment electric sedan, available in Arctic White, Harbour Grey, and Misty Blue, has now arrived at BYD showrooms across both Peninsular and East Malaysia. The first batch of owners have already received their cars, marking the SEAL 6’s swift appearance on local roads. This rapid delivery reflects BYD Sime Motors’ commitment to ensuring that customers don’t have to wait long to experience the latest addition to its growing electric line-up.

With nationwide deliveries now underway, Malaysians can see, touch, and test drive the BYD SEAL 6 themselves. The sleek electric sedan promises a smooth and responsive driving experience, combining performance, refinement, and practicality in a package that’s set to challenge the segment’s benchmarks.

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UMW Toyota Motor Strengthens Its Lead with Solid September Sales and Growing Hybrid Momentum

UMW Toyota Motor (UMWT) has closed September 2025 on a strong note, reporting total sales of 8,172 units for the month, which pushes its year-to-date tally to 70,418 units. The solid performance reaffirms Toyota’s position as Malaysia’s leading non-national car brand, driven by its reputation for reliability, innovation, and accessible electrified mobility.

The company’s consistent growth continues to align with its “Mobility for All” philosophy, a vision that focuses on providing practical, high-quality vehicles to suit the needs of all Malaysians. Toyota’s wide model range, coupled with dependable after-sales service and its commitment to continuous improvement, has helped the brand remain a trusted choice among local drivers.

Toyota’s hybrid range has become increasingly popular among Malaysians who are looking for practical electrification solutions without the need for charging infrastructure. These self-charging hybrids not only deliver fuel savings and lower emissions but also maintain the familiar driving experience of a petrol vehicle. With more than twenty years of hybrid expertise, Toyota continues to lead the segment in Malaysia with models such as the Corolla Cross Hybrid, which remains a strong performer in its class.

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Malaysia’s First Proton Sales City Centre Opens in Bukit Jalil

Jaya Johan Sdn Bhd, an award-winning authorised Proton dealership under the Atiara Johan Group, has made history by becoming the first in Malaysia to qualify for and open a Proton Sales City Centre — a major step forward in the brand’s retail experience strategy.

Unlike a conventional showroom, the new Proton Sales City Centre is designed to be an immersive brand hub that goes beyond car displays. Visitors can explore Proton’s entire model line-up, take test drives on-site, and experience an interactive journey through the brand’s heritage, innovation, and vision for the future. It represents a new phase for Proton’s retail presence, where sales and brand engagement come together under one roof.

Group CEO of Atiara Johan, Eric Moo, explained that the new space was created to reflect Proton’s evolution as a modern and global carmaker. He described the centre as a contemporary environment where visitors can relax, enjoy a coffee, and learn about Proton’s latest advancements through digital and interactive showcases. Customers will also have access to exclusive deals, trade-in programmes, and tailored financing options, making the experience more convenient and personalised.

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BYD Extends Its Lead Over Tesla in Global EV Sales Through Q3 2025

Chinese automaker BYD has widened its lead over Tesla in global pure electric vehicle (EV) sales, firmly establishing itself as the world’s top EV manufacturer through the third quarter of 2025.

According to data compiled by automotive analyst “Tongkuai Shuchang,” BYD recorded cumulative pure electric vehicle sales of 1.61 million units between January and September 2025. In comparison, Tesla delivered 1.22 million units over the same period, giving BYD a commanding lead of around 388,000 vehicles.

In the third quarter alone, BYD delivered 582,500 pure electric vehicles worldwide. Although this marked a slight 4% decline compared to the previous quarter, the numbers still reflected an impressive year-on-year growth of 31.4%. Tesla, meanwhile, reported deliveries of 497,100 units in Q3, achieving a 29.4% increase quarter-on-quarter and 7.4% growth year-on-year. Despite surpassing market expectations, Tesla remains behind BYD for the fourth consecutive quarter.

BYD first overtook Tesla in Q4 2024, a milestone that signalled a shift in the global EV landscape. Since then, the Chinese brand has not only retained its top spot but has continued to expand its margin, driven by its broad product lineup, aggressive pricing, and strong domestic and overseas demand.

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Motorists Can Claim Refunds for Unsubsidised RON95 Payments Caused by System Glitches

Motorists who were charged unsubsidised RON95 prices due to technical issues at petrol stations can now claim refunds, said Deputy Minister of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living, Datuk Dr Fuziah Salleh.

She explained that while the Budi Madani RON95 (Budi95) programme has been operating smoothly nationwide since its rollout last Tuesday, a few stations experienced brief system disruptions. These issues, she said, were resolved promptly.

“There were some complaints about system outages, but they were handled quickly. However, if motorists were charged unsubsidised RON95 prices as a result, they can file a claim,” Fuziah said, according to The Star.

Refund claims can be made for petrol purchases between 30 September and 31 October through the official portal at https://mysubsidi.kpdn.gov.my. Applicants must attach proof of purchase, such as receipts for RON95 transactions.

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Rolls-Royce Showcases Its Most Complex Woodwork for Phantom’s 100th Anniversary

To mark the 100th anniversary of the legendary Phantom, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars has unveiled what it proudly calls the most intricate woodwork ever created in its history. This exclusive Private Collection of just 25 cars showcases an extraordinary level of craftsmanship, debuting three techniques never before used by the marque — 3D marquetry, 3D ink layering, and 24-carat gold leafing. Each car represents a century of design evolution and artistry, merging tradition with innovation in a way only Rolls-Royce can.

The centenary of the Phantom is more than just a milestone; it is a celebration of how the car has defined luxury motoring across generations. For this occasion, the marque’s designers, engineers, and artisans pushed their creative and technical limits, blending hand-drawn sketches, digital design, and cutting-edge production methods. The result is a collection of interior artworks inspired by journeys, landscapes, and the moments that have shaped the Phantom’s enduring legacy.

The standout feature of this collection is the interior door panels, which Rolls-Royce describes as the most complex ever crafted in its history. Each door took an entire year to complete, with every surface narrating a part of the Phantom’s story. The design combines geographical maps, floral motifs, and visual nods to historic Phantom models, all expressed through Blackwood veneer. This material was selected for its rich depth and distinctive grain, offering a dynamic visual texture that shifts subtly under different lighting conditions.

The process required the use of some of the largest veneer sheets ever produced for a Rolls-Royce. These were cut and pieced together like an elaborate mosaic, with each section positioned to ensure the wood grain interacts with light in a specific way. The result is an ever-changing surface that reveals new details from different angles. Even the speaker grilles were integrated directly into the veneer through precision milling, creating an uninterrupted, seamless aesthetic that elevates the cabin’s sense of calm and refinement.