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Honda Malaysia Launches All-Electric e:N1 SUV – Priced at RM149,900

Honda Malaysia has officially introduced its first fully electric vehicle, the e:N1 SUV, marking a pivotal step in the company’s journey towards sustainable mobility and carbon neutrality in the local market. We tested it out a few months ago, which you can read about here, and found it to be impressive in every way.

The e:N1 represents a new chapter in Honda’s electrification strategy, combining cutting-edge battery-electric technology with the marque’s hallmark emphasis on driving enjoyment, innovation, and everyday usability. According to Honda Malaysia, the e:N1 has been carefully engineered to meet the demands of contemporary Malaysian motorists and serves as a foundation for the brand’s broader battery electric vehicle (BEV) plans in the country.

Developed on Honda’s dedicated e:N Architecture F platform, the e:N1 adopts a front-wheel-drive layout designed to deliver responsive acceleration and stable handling. The SUV is powered by a high-output electric motor, producing 201hp and 310Nm of torque. It is paired with a 68.8kWh lithium-ion battery, offering a claimed driving range of up to 412km on the WLTP cycle (500km NEDC), positioning the e:N1 as a practical option for both urban and long-distance driving.

Aesthetically, the e:N1 showcases Honda’s evolving design identity with a sleek, aerodynamic silhouette and contemporary styling cues. Key design elements include full LED headlights, a continuous LED light bar at the rear, and bespoke 18-inch dual-tone alloy wheels exclusive to this model. A new white “H” badge features prominently on the charging port cover, steering wheel, remote key, and centre wheel caps, reinforcing the car’s all-electric credentials. The rear also carries a spread-letter “Honda” emblem, giving the e:N1 a more premium appearance.

Functionality remains a central focus of the e:N1’s design. The SUV supports both AC and DC charging, with the port cleverly integrated into the front fascia for ease of access. A visible charging indicator placed above the grille allows the driver to monitor charging progress at a glance.

Measuring 4,380mm in length with a 2,610mm wheelbase and a height of 1,592mm, the e:N1 slots into the compact SUV segment, offering a blend of urban-friendly proportions and interior space suitable for daily use.

For comfort and practicality, the e:N1 retains HondaŐs signature spaciousness with 60:40 split rear seat configuration and 344 litres of cargo space.

When it comes to the interior, the standout feature is the massive 15.1-inch vertically oriented infotainment screen, which is digitally divided into three sections. This setup works well despite the lack of physical buttons, as all essential functions remain easily accessible with just a touch. For instance, while there are no traditional controls for the air-conditioning, the intuitive layout at the bottom of the screen allows quick and effortless adjustments to temperature and fan speed.

It also includes wireless Apple CarPlay, wired Android Auto connectivity and a Navigation system.

In terms of safety, the e:N1 is equipped with the comprehensive Honda SENSING suite, which includes nine advanced driver assistance systems. These are further supported by Blind Spot Information (BSI) and Cross Traffic Monitor (CTM), both of which work together to improve situational awareness and ensure a safer driving experience. Honda Malaysia reaffirmed that these features reflect its ongoing commitment to customer safety and peace of mind.

To commemorate the launch, the Company is offering a special Price That Drives Excitement at RM149,900.00, available for a limited quantity. The e:N1 comes with an eight-year or 160,000km warranty (whichever comes first) on the electric vehicle battery and electric drive system.

For added peace of mind, the Honda Insurance Plus (HiP EV) package is also available for the e:N1, providing Additional EV Benefits including coverage for damage or injury while using public EV chargers, protection for EV Home wall charger against fire, lightning, theft or natural disasters, coverage for loss or damage to the portable charging cable and personal liability coverage for bodily injury or damage to third-party property arising from the use of the EV home wall charger.

To support the rollout of the new electric SUV, Honda Malaysia has identified eight authorised dealerships across three regions to serve as dedicated hubs for the e:N1. These dealerships have been specially trained to manage customer enquiries, provide test drives, and deliver servicing tailored to the needs of EV owners—facilitating a smoother transition for Malaysians moving from conventional combustion engines to electric mobility.

The launch of the e:N1 not only reinforces Honda Malaysia’s ambition to be at the forefront of electrified transportation, but also aligns with the company’s global and regional objectives in tackling climate change and promoting innovation through sustainable mobility solutions.

Electric Vehicle Sales Surge Despite Global Trade Tensions

Electric vehicle (EV) sales are on track to continue their upward trajectory this year, despite geopolitical uncertainties and the imposition of fresh tariffs by the United States, the International Energy Agency (IEA) revealed in its latest annual report.

According to the agency, electric cars are expected to make up one in every four vehicles sold globally by the end of 2025, a reflection of shifting consumer preferences and the growing appeal of lower long-term operating costs. The IEA highlighted that affordability and advancements in EV technology are accelerating global adoption rates.

Fatih Birol, Director-General of the IEA, noted that electric vehicles are firmly positioned on a global growth path. He forecasted that by 2030, over 40 per cent of global car sales will be electric, signalling a significant transformation in the automotive landscape.

The surge in demand is already evident. In 2024 alone, global EV sales—including plug-in hybrid models—reached over 17 million units, representing an increase of more than 3.5 million from the previous year. The first quarter of 2025 saw sales jump by 35 per cent year-on-year, with full-year figures expected to surpass 20 million units.

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Government Approves New Funding Mechanism to Bolster Road Safety Initiatives

The Cabinet Committee on Road Safety and Congestion (JK-MKKJR) has approved a proposal to establish a dedicated funding mechanism aimed at enhancing road safety, according to Transport Minister Anthony Loke.

Speaking at a press conference following the committee meeting today, Loke revealed that the initiative will involve allocating 50 per cent of revenue collected through fines under the Automated Awareness Safety System (AWAS) to the Ministry of Transport (MOT). The funds will be used to implement key safety measures, including the installation of lighting at accident-prone areas along highways.

“One of the immediate actions we will take is installing lights in accident hotspots,” Loke said. “We hope this creates a more sustainable stream of funding so that we can introduce preventive measures to mitigate road accident risks.”

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Audi Introduces New Entry-Level e-tron GT quattro to Expand Gran Turismo Line-Up

Audi has broadened its Gran Turismo portfolio with the introduction of the e-tron GT quattro, a new entry point into the brand’s high-performance electric saloon family. This latest model joins the existing S e-tron GT, RS e-tron GT, and the flagship RS e-tron GT performance, offering a refined balance of electric performance, daily practicality, and Gran Turismo styling.

The e-tron GT quattro is equipped with a dual-motor setup capable of delivering 496hp of power, with a temporary boost to 576hp available via Launch Control. Powered by a 105 kWh battery (97 kWh usable), the car provides an estimated range of up to 622km on a single charge, making it well suited for long-distance journeys and urban commuting alike.

Charging capabilities have been significantly enhanced, with the model supporting up to 320 kW of direct current fast charging. In optimal conditions, it can replenish up to 285km of range in just ten minutes. A thermal management system automatically conditions the battery when navigating to high-power chargers, ensuring peak charging efficiency with minimal waiting time.

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Mazda Joins Forces with CATL to Fast-Track Electric Vehicle Development in China

In a decisive step toward accelerating its electrification agenda, Mazda Motor Corporation has entered a strategic partnership with Contemporary Amperex Technology Co., Ltd. (CATL), the global leader in electric vehicle battery manufacturing. The collaboration, conducted through Mazda’s Chinese joint venture with Changan Automobile, Changan Mazda, will centre around the adoption of CATL’s state-of-the-art CIIC (Cell to Chassis Integrated Intelligent Chassis) platform.

Unveiled in December last year, CATL’s CIIC platform offers a revolutionary skateboard-style vehicle architecture. It employs a decoupled structure that separates the vehicle’s upper and lower bodies, allowing for modular sub-systems and standardised connection interfaces. This setup facilitates enhanced flexibility in both hardware and software integration, enabling automakers to streamline vehicle development while rapidly adapting to shifting market demands.

By merging CATL’s advanced chassis technology with Changan Mazda’s established automotive production capabilities, the joint venture aims to significantly reduce development lead times and introduce new energy vehicles (NEVs) that respond swiftly to evolving consumer and regulatory expectations.

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Toyota Reportedly Considering Takeover of Chinese EV Maker Neta Auto

Japanese automotive manufacturer Toyota is reportedly exploring the possibility of acquiring Neta Auto, a Chinese electric vehicle company facing severe financial distress, reported by Car News China. The potential deal, though not confirmed by Toyota, was highlighted in a report by Kuai Technology on 12 May, suggesting that such a move could serve to strengthen Toyota’s electric vehicle strategy in China, the world’s most competitive EV market.

Neta Auto, operated by Hozon New Energy Auto and founded in 2014, has been in crisis since the middle of 2024. The company halted production and implemented mass layoffs, while simultaneously scrambling to secure outside investment. In February this year, a much-anticipated Series E financing round failed. This round was projected to raise between 4 billion and 4.5 billion yuan (approximately USD 552–621 million), with the bulk of funding—3 billion yuan (USD 414 million)—expected from a lead investor associated with a BRICS country fund. However, the investment was conditional upon the company restarting production and attracting additional matching funds, neither of which came to fruition, prompting the investor to withdraw and causing the financing effort to collapse.

Although Neta attempted to restart operations by briefly reopening its Tongxiang facility in January, a shortage of essential components prevented production from resuming. This setback had a domino effect, undermining investor confidence and leading to a dramatic decline in the company’s valuation.

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Nissan to Slash 10,000 More Jobs Amid Mounting Losses and Fading Prospects

Nissan Motor Co is reportedly set to eliminate an additional 10,000 jobs worldwide, deepening its workforce reduction efforts as the troubled automaker grapples with what could be its worst annual financial loss on record. The latest cuts, reported by Japanese broadcaster NHK and the Nikkei business daily, come on the heels of a previous announcement in November to shed 9,000 positions.

If confirmed, the latest move would mark a total workforce reduction of approximately 15 per cent globally as Nissan attempts to navigate a landscape of mounting debt, intense competition, and faltering profitability. The company declined to comment on the latest media reports.

Nissan is expected to post a net loss of between 700 billion and 750 billion yen for the fiscal year ending March 2025. This would eclipse its previous record loss of 684 billion yen recorded in 1999-2000, a period marked by crisis that eventually led to its turbulent partnership with French automaker Renault.

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Jetour eVT5 Makes Quiet Debut Alongside VT9 and T2

While Jetour’s spotlight was firmly fixed on the national launch of its VT9 seven-seater SUV and the prominent display of the rugged T2 SUV, an intriguing third model made a more discreet appearance in the background—the all-electric Jetour eVT5.

Positioned as a compact electric SUV, the eVT5 comes equipped with a 53.6 kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery supplied by CATL. Under the now-outdated NEDC testing cycle, the SUV claims a driving range of 356 kilometres on a full charge. Charging capabilities are also notable, with the battery able to replenish from 30% to 80% in just 30 minutes via a charging port located at the front of the SUV.

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Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia Marks 20 Years with Major Celebrations at Malaysia Autoshow 2025

Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia (MMM), the official distributor of Mitsubishi vehicles in the country, is proudly celebrating its 20th anniversary this year, marking two decades of growth, innovation, and strong customer loyalty. The milestone is being commemorated in grand fashion at the Malaysia Autoshow 2025, taking place from 9 to 15 May at the Malaysia Agro Exposition Park Serdang (MAEPS).

Since its inception in 2005, MMM has firmly established itself in the Malaysian automotive landscape with a portfolio of vehicles recognised for reliability, robust performance, and adventurous appeal. Over the past 20 years, the company has delivered more than 200,000 vehicles to Malaysian drivers—a figure that underscores its continued relevance and the strong trust placed in the brand.

Central to MMM’s success story is the Mitsubishi Triton, a model that has become synonymous with rugged performance and off-road capability. The pick-up truck accounts for a remarkable 54.3% of the company’s total vehicle deliveries in Malaysia to date, proving its enduring appeal across both urban and rural terrains. The Triton’s reputation for dependability and versatility has made it a favourite among Malaysians seeking both utility and dynamic driving performance.

To support its expanding customer base, MMM has established a nationwide network of over 60 authorised dealerships, offering accessible sales and after-sales services throughout the country.

Marking the anniversary, Shinya Ikeda, Chief Executive Officer of Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia, expressed gratitude to all stakeholders who contributed to the brand’s journey. He stated that reaching this 20-year milestone is a reflection of the trust and passion of its customers, dealers, and partners. He reaffirmed MMM’s commitment to delivering vehicles that uphold the brand’s hallmarks of performance, dependability, and excellent after-sales care.

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Jetour T2 Makes an Appearance at Malaysia Autoshow 2025 – Set for Launch by Year-End

Jetour is expanding its footprint in the Malaysian automotive market with the upcoming arrival of the T2, a boxy SUV with off-road credentials, expected to go on sale in the final quarter of 2025. The T2 made its first public appearance in Malaysia recently as part of a preview showcase, coinciding with the official launch of Jetour’s VT9 seven-seater SUV, which entered the market at a starting price of RM118,800.

Positioned as a rugged off-road contender, the Jetour T2 sports a squared, purposeful design that evokes the visual strength of more established models such as the GWM Tank 300. The previewed unit in Malaysia was a left-hand drive model, and Jetour Auto Malaysia has yet to disclose specific technical details for the local market version.

Nevertheless, specifications from the Chinese domestic market offer a glimpse of what may be expected. In China, the T2 is offered with both conventional petrol engines and a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) option. The internal combustion variants include a 1.5-litre turbocharged engine producing 184hp and 290Nm of torque, paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. A more powerful 2.0-litre turbocharged engine delivers 254hp and 390Nm of torque, mated to an eight-speed automatic gearbox.

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