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Rafizi Reaffirms Fuel Subsidy Reduction Plans

In an interview with Bloomberg on Tuesday, Economy Minister Rafizi Ramli reaffirmed the government’s decision to cut fuel subsidies this year as part of efforts to reduce the national fiscal deficit.

As reported by The Star, Rafizi emphasised the necessity of implementing the subsidy cuts to “manage the sequence” effectively, particularly in light of looming inflation risks. The move aligns with the government’s targeted RON95 subsidy programme planned for the second half of 2024, aimed at optimising resources for those most in need.

Highlighting concerns over the distribution of blanket fuel subsidies, Rafizi noted that the top 20 (T20) income group currently receives 53% of these subsidies. He stressed that such blanket subsidies, particularly on RON95 fuel, have accounted for a significant portion of the total RM81 billion in subsidies disbursed in 2023.

The government aims to narrow the budget deficit to 4.3% of gross domestic product (GDP) this year, compared to 5% in 2023. Rafizi emphasised the importance of adhering to a certain timeline to achieve this fiscal target.

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BYD Seal U to Enter the Malaysian Market?

Speculation is swirling regarding the potential entry of the BYD Seal U into the Malaysian automotive market. The Seal U, loved for its fusion of cutting-edge technology, spacious interior, and advanced tech, has captured the imagination of Malaysian drivers seeking sustainable transportation options.

Compounding the anticipation is the presence of the BYD Seal AWD and RWD models which are already making waves in Malaysia, laying the groundwork for the Seal U’s imminent arrival.

Currently available in Europe, the BYD Seal U offers two variants: Comfort and Design. The Seal U boasts double U-shaped headlights with light clusters for enhanced visibility, while its rear showcases a continuous taillight with a waterdrops matrix pattern.

Dimension-wise, the Seal U stands 4,785mm long, 1,890mm wide, and 1,668 mm tall, with a wheelbase of 2,765mm, slightly larger than the Atto 3. The Seal U rides on 19-inch aerodynamic wheels which supposedly help to improve range.

Inside, the Seal U presents a futuristic interior, featuring a floating centre console and double-layer storage compartments. A large rotatable touchscreen serves as the central control hub for connectivity and infotainment, complemented by head-up display technology for essential information projection.

With GPS as standard and a variety of Apps, including Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, the BYD Seal U’s 4G connectivity system provides an ultra-smart driving experience with modern infotainment and intuitive voice control. It also includes over-the-air (OTA) upgrades.

Cargo-wise, the Seal U offers 552 litres of boot capacity, expandable to 1,440 litres with rear seats folded down, catering to various storage needs.

Charging is swift, with 140 kW DC rapid charging enabling 30% to 80% State of Charge in just 28 minutes. The Comfort variant houses a 71.8 kWh battery, providing up to 420km of range, while the Design variant boasts an 87 kWh battery, offering up to 500km of range.

BYD Blade lithium iron phosphate batteries power both variants. The total power output is 217PS and 330Nm of torque with a top speed of 175km/h and power is sent to the front wheels.

Safety-wise, the Seal U has a five-star Euro NCAP rating and features a range of active and passive safety features essential for families, including top scores in various impact tests and child seat installation ratings.

While the BYD Seal rivals the Tesla Model 3, the BYD Seal U is up against the Tesla Model Y, which is priced from RM199,000 to RM288,000. So BYD has to play its cards right to outsell Tesla, but judging by its pricing strategy of late, BYD Malaysia may not be too concerned about Tesla.

Sime Darby Racing Team Returns to Compete in the Porsche Carrera Cup Asia 2024

Porsche Malaysia, represented by Sime Darby Auto Performance, is gearing up for its second consecutive year participating in the Porsche Carrera Cup Asia 2024 (PCCA) following a successful debut season. Partnering with Earl Bamber Motorsport (EBM), Sime Darby Racing Team will compete in the PRO category with driver Nazim Azman at the helm, aiming to continue Porsche’s motorsport legacy while nurturing local talent in motorsport.

In the upcoming 21st season of PCCA, all drivers will compete in identical Porsche 911 GT3 Cup (992) cars, ensuring equal technical standards across the field. Sime Darby Racing Team is poised to build on its achievements from the previous season and establish itself as a formidable contender in this prestigious Asian one-make series.

Christopher Hunter, CEO of Sime Darby Auto Performance, expressed pride in the team’s commitment to empowering local talent in motorsport and their eagerness to bring forward the learnings from the previous season to the 2024 season.

Nazim Azman, the Malaysian race driver representing Sime Darby Racing Team, also highlighted the pride he feels in driving the 911 GT3 Cup car with its Malaysian batik-inspired livery, symbolising a connection to home while racing internationally.

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Honda Unveils Next-generation Ye EV Series for China – P7, S7, GT Concept

Honda has unveiled the Ye Series, a new line of electric vehicles (EVs) targeted for the Chinese market. The debut includes the world premiere of two models, the Ye P7 and Ye S7, along with the concept model for the Ye GT Concept.

The Ye Series is part of Honda’s broader strategy to expand its electric vehicle lineup in China, with plans to introduce a total of six models by 2027. These new models aim to offer customers a compelling driving experience while aligning with the increasing demand for electrified transportation in the region.

Named after the Chinese character “烨,” meaning “shine brilliantly,” the Ye Series reflects Honda’s commitment to enabling drivers to express their passion for driving and individuality. The series will feature the new “H mark” emblem designed specifically for Honda’s next-generation EVs.

The Ye Series models are built on a dedicated EV platform developed in China, integrating Honda’s expertise in electrification technologies and human-centric design principles. They aim to deliver enhanced driving performance, comfort, and intelligence, including the integration of AI-powered assistants.

The Ye P7 and Ye S7, the first models in the series, offer variations with rear-wheel drive and four-wheel drive, respectively. Both variations prioritise driving enjoyment while providing spacious and intelligent interiors.

Additionally, the Ye GT Concept represents Honda’s vision for a grand tourer EV, featuring a dynamic design and immersive driving experience. It includes innovative features such as a far-focus display for the front passenger, creating a theater-like environment within the vehicle.

Honda’s EV strategy in China aligns with its global goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2050. By introducing a total of 10 Honda-brand EV models in China by 2027 and aiming for EVs to represent 100% of its automobile sales in China by 2035, Honda is taking significant steps toward a sustainable future.

Audi E-tron GT Set for Mid-Lifecycle Update

The Audi e-tron GT is set to undergo a mid-lifecycle update, following in the footsteps of the Porsche Taycan, which shares its platform. While the exterior changes are subtle, with a prototype showcased without camouflage, significant upgrades are anticipated beneath the surface.

The prototype of the Audi e-tron GT revealed a few exterior tweaks, including revised front intakes, a slightly different grille cover, a redesigned rear diffuser, and new aero-optimised alloy wheels. However, the most notable enhancements are expected to be in its performance and technology.

Following the pattern of the recently updated Porsche Taycan, the e-tron GT is likely to feature more potent electric motors and faster charging capabilities, potentially reaching up to 320 kWh compared to the current 270 kWh. Some variants might also offer a larger 105 kWh battery pack for extended range.

The lineup is expected to include a new RS Performance trim, surpassing the power output of the outgoing RS e-tron GT but falling short of the impressive figures of the Porsche Taycan Turbo S.

Moreover, a new active suspension system with hydraulic actuators, similar to the Porsche Active Ride, is anticipated. This system promises to enhance both comfort and driving dynamics, offering drivers a wider range of adjustment capabilities and driving modes.

While Audi has not provided a specific debut date for the updated e-tron GT family, it is anticipated to be unveiled in the coming weeks or months, bringing a blend of performance, technology, and refinement to the electric vehicle market.

Continental Tyres Launches High Performance Sporty Tyre Tailored for Asia Pacific Drivers

Continental Tyres has introduced the MaxContact MC7 tyre, a high-performance tyre designed to meet the needs of drivers in the Asia Pacific region. Developed by a team of engineers and material experts, the MC7 offers precise steering, dynamic handling, and maximum control for urban driving.

The MC7 prioritises control and stability, enabling drivers to make sharper turns and navigate corners with confidence. The Cornering Macroblocks and ReFlex Compound work together to maximise the contact area with the road, ensuring a stable and controlled drive.

Safety is a key focus of the MaxContact MC7, particularly in wet weather conditions common in the APAC region. The tyre features 3D Laser-cut Sipes for enhanced grip and braking performance on wet roads, reducing the risk of aquaplaning. The silica technology in the ReFlex compound improves braking distances on both dry and wet surfaces.

Additionally, the MaxContact MC7 offers a quieter driving experience, thanks to the upgraded Two-in-1 Noise Breaker 3.0, which minimises sound waves and reduces noise in the car cabin.

The MaxContact MC7 is part of Continental’s Gen7 product lineup, representing the latest generation of tyre technologies tailored for APAC drivers. Available in sizes ranging from 16” to 21”, the MC7 is designed to provide exceptional performance and driving experiences for customers across the region.

Demands for Stronger Measures Against Negligent Parents in Child Seat Safety

Child rights activists, parents, and officials are calling for stricter actions against parents who do not ensure their children are belted up in cars or seated in appropriate child car seats. This demand follows the circulation of a viral video showing a man driving without a seatbelt while a child was not in a car seat.

According to MalaysiaKini, Dr. Hartini Zainudin, a child activist, stresses the need to issue fines against negligent parents to promote responsible behaviour and ensure compliance with traffic laws and safety regulations.

Transport Minister Anthony Loke previously mandated the usage of child restraint systems (CRS) in private vehicles in 2020. Despite an initial period of public education, activists now advocate for enforcement, including fines, under the Road Transport Act 1987.

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smart #1 Secures Third Position in Malaysia’s Growing EV Market

smart #1, the flagship EV model from PRO-NET, has made a significant impact in the Malaysian EV market, securing its position as the third-ranked EV SUV priced above RM180k. This achievement highlights smart’s popularity and success in the premium EV segment, a testament to its innovation and customer-centric approach.

The exponential growth of the Malaysian EV market underscores the increasing demand for sustainable mobility solutions. In this landscape, smart has emerged as a frontrunner, capturing the trust and preference of Malaysian consumers.

The success of smart #1 can be attributed to its exceptional performance, evident in its record-breaking sales figures and consistent ranking among top contenders in the premium EV SUV segment. Features like the Brabus model have further enhanced its appeal, showcasing exceptional performance and quality.

Several factors contribute to smart’s achievements, including its premium brand DNA inherited from Mercedes-Benz, unique selling propositions such as comprehensive charging solutions, and advanced driver assistance features. smart Malaysia’s dedication to delivering an unparalleled customer experience, exemplified by initiatives like the Hello smart app and seamless service offerings, reinforces smart #1’s success in the market.

Furthermore, smart Malaysia’s collaboration with stakeholders and expansion of its dealer network demonstrate its commitment to meeting the evolving needs of Malaysian consumers and driving EV adoption nationwide. The establishment of community-centric hubs further underscores smart’s efforts to make EV ownership convenient and accessible across the country.

British Columbia Bans High-Level Autonomous Driving

The adoption of autonomous driving technology has indeed sparked both excitement and caution in various regions around the world. While companies like Tesla and Waymo have made significant strides in bringing self-driving capabilities to the market, concerns about safety, regulation, and legal liability persist.

British Columbia’s decision to implement a ban on autonomous driving technology beyond Level 2 autonomy reflects a cautious approach to the deployment of these advanced systems. By restricting the use of higher-level autonomous driving features, the government aims to prioritise safety and ensure that drivers remain actively engaged in the driving process.

The categorisation of Tesla’s Full Self-Driving system as Level 2 autonomy means that it falls within the permitted range of autonomous capabilities in British Columbia. However, the introduction of more advanced autonomous features by Tesla or other manufacturers could potentially conflict with the province’s regulations and face legal repercussions.

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Made in Thunder: The Maserati GranCabrio Folgore

Maserati’s latest offering, the GranCabrio Folgore, introduces an electrifying twist to the world of convertibles, joining the ranks of a select few electric drop-tops available in the market. This open-air alternative to the GranTurismo Folgore shares its drivetrain and core features with its coupe counterpart, promising an exhilarating driving experience with zero emissions.

At the heart of the GranCabrio Folgore lies a cutting-edge drivetrain comprised of three radial-flux permanent-magnet motors, each equipped with its own silicon carbide inverter. With two motors positioned at the rear and one at the front, the GranCabrio boasts a formidable peak output of 818hp in “MaxBoost” mode, delivering impressive performance on demand. In standard operation, the car offers a still-impressive 751hp.

Powering this electric marvel is a T-shaped lithium-ion battery pack, strategically located between and behind the passengers to preserve the GranCabrio’s classic proportions. With a capacity of 92.5 kWh, the battery pack enables rapid charging capabilities, with regenerative braking capable of absorbing up to 400kW for short bursts and continuous charging at 270kW from compatible stations. To address potential charging infrastructure limitations, Maserati has equipped the GranCabrio with an onboard “DC Booster” system, allowing it to charge at 50kW from older stations.

In addition to its advanced drivetrain, the GranCabrio Folgore features innovative technology to optimise range and efficiency, including regenerative braking paddles and a guidance system to maximise available range. With a stated range of 447km on the European WLTP cycle, the GranCabrio offers impressive long-distance capabilities without compromising on performance.

Complementing its electrifying performance is a luxurious interior equipped with premium amenities, including a high-end sound system with up to 16 speakers, seat-mounted heaters for enhanced comfort, and a meticulously crafted cabin befitting its six-figure price tag.

While exact pricing and availability details are yet to be announced, the GranCabrio Folgore is poised to make a grand entrance into the electric vehicle market, offering discerning drivers a unique blend of luxury, performance, and sustainability in a captivating convertible package.