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DBKL Weighs Outsourcing Abandoned Vehicle Disposal

Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) is considering outsourcing the removal and disposal of abandoned vehicles to licensed scrap metal dealers in a bid to ease overcrowding at its depots and reclaim public parking spaces.

Its three depots — in Taman Connaught, Salak Selatan and Pantai Sentral — have already reached their combined capacity of 3,700 vehicles. According to The Star, cars are now being stacked on top of each other to make room.

DBKL spends millions of ringgit each year towing these vehicles but recovers only about RM300,000 annually through auctions. The financial strain is worsened by legal processes that can take more than six months per case.

By law, DBKL must issue several notices, verify vehicle ownership with the Road Transport Department (JPJ), and wait months before holding its annual auction, which typically clears between 500 and 1,000 vehicles.

Under the proposed outsourcing plan, Seputeh MP Teresa Kok’s aide Alice Lan said discussions were underway to allow scrap metal dealers to manage both towing and legal disposal.

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MG Motor Malaysia Announces New Pricing for MG4, Promotions Across EV and Petrol Line-up

MG Motor Malaysia has introduced new pricing for its all-electric hatchback, the MG4, positioning it as one of the most accessible rear-wheel-drive EVs in its segment. The MG4 Lux is now priced at RM100,888, the MG4 Lux Extended at RM128,888, and the high-performance MG4 XPower at RM138,888. The revised pricing translates into savings of more than RM28,000 for buyers.

The MG4 line-up caters to different types of drivers. The MG4 Lux focuses on everyday practicality, the Lux Extended is aimed at those who want greater driving range, while the MG4 XPower is designed for performance-oriented customers. All variants retain the model’s distinctive design and technology while offering a driving experience rooted in MG’s British heritage.

The revised pricing reflects MG Motor Malaysia’s strategy to make EVs more affordable in the local market. To add further value, each MG4 purchase includes either a complimentary 7kW AC wallbox charger or charging credits. Savings on these ownership perks amount to RM10,000 for the MG4 XPower and Lux Extended, and RM7,000 for the MG4 Lux.

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From Sim to Sepang: Porsche Esports Winners Put Their Skills to the Test

The virtual world met the real thing when Sime Darby Auto Performance, the official representative of Porsche in Malaysia, gave podium winners of the Porsche Esports Sprint Challenge Malaysia 2025 a taste of life behind the wheel of real cars. The event took place at the PETRONAS Sepang International Circuit, where the country’s best Esports racers traded their simulators for Cayennes, 911s, and even all-electric Porsches.

For Porsche, motorsport is more than a sport — it’s a defining part of the brand’s DNA. The company has long viewed simulation racing as an important step in driver development, and now, Esports is opening the door for a new generation of talent.

Through the Porsche Esports Sprint Challenge Malaysia, young racers get a genuine platform to test their passion and possibly take their first steps into real-world competition. The goal, Porsche Malaysia explained, is not just to deliver a fun experience but also to spark ambition, whether in the simulator or on the track itself.

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Tyre Smuggling Scandal Uncovered in Malaysia, RM350 Million in Losses Estimated

A complaint from an Italian tyre manufacturer has set off a major investigation into large-scale tyre smuggling and forged import documents in Malaysia. The case, now known as “Ops Grip,” has already led to raids across multiple states and the seizure of thousands of tyres suspected to be counterfeit or undeclared.

According to Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) chief commissioner Tan Sri Azam Baki, the probe began after a European tyre maker raised concerns over fake products and suspicious import patterns. He confirmed that Italy was among the countries affected but stopped short of naming other sources. The seized tyres are currently undergoing checks to verify their authenticity.

The operation was carried out by the Multi-Agency Task Force (MATF), which brought together the MACC, the Inland Revenue Board, Bank Negara Malaysia, and the Customs Department. Teams swooped down on six warehouses and container sites in the Klang Valley, Penang, and Johor, where they uncovered 17,672 tyres. These are now being cross-checked with international brands to confirm their legitimacy.

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New XPENG G6 Ultra Smart Coupe SUV Launched in Malaysia

Bermaz Xpeng Sdn Bhd, the exclusive distributor of XPENG in Malaysia, has officially launched the new XPENG G6 Ultra Smart Coupe SUV. First introduced locally in August 2024, the updated G6 arrives with performance improvements, smarter features, and refreshed styling. Bookings are now open, with prices starting from RM178,888.

The new G6 is built on XPENG’s SEPA 2.0 architecture, designed to improve driving efficiency, refine handling, and deliver a more seamless connected experience. Alongside these technical upgrades, the SUV receives updates inside and out that emphasise its modern and practical character.

Exterior revisions include a full-width Starlight Wing LED light bar with integrated turn signals, a redesigned rear diffuser for better airflow, and a matte grey XPENG badge moved from the bonnet to the hood.

Wheel arches now match the body colour for a cleaner finish, while a new ducktail-style rear design strengthens the car’s stance and stability.

The cabin has been extensively redesigned under what XPENG calls the Super Star-Ring Interior Design, transforming more than half of the interior. The dashboard layout is sleeker, with ambient lighting, premium materials, and a capacitive steering wheel.

Customers can choose Dark Grey or Light Grey interior themes. A larger 15.6-inch floating infotainment screen works alongside a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, complemented by intuitive voice commands and smartphone connectivity.

Passenger comfort has also been upgraded. Front seats offer massage, lumbar support, heating, and ventilation, while the rear features a 12-level reclining design intended to mimic sofa-like comfort. A panoramic star sunroof and generous headroom and legroom further add to the sense of space.

Power comes from XPENG’s next-generation Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) 800V high-voltage SiC platform, the first in the industry to use 5C LFP batteries. This approach improves charging speed, efficiency, and long-term durability while avoiding reliance on minerals such as cobalt and nickel. The result is a battery that is safer and more environmentally sustainable, without compromising performance.

The Long Range Pro and AWD Performance models are equipped with an 80.5 kWh LFP pack, replacing the 87.5 kWh lithium-ion batteries used in earlier versions. Thanks to the 800V SiC system, the G6 achieves a peak charging power of 451kW, enabling a 10% to 80% charge in just 12 minutes — the fastest in its class. Depending on the variant, the G6 delivers up to 525km of driving range on a single charge.

As for power, the RWD Long Rane variant puts out 292hp and 440Nm of torque, which allows it to do 0-100km/h in 6.7 seconds, while the AWD Performance variant churns out 480hp and 660Nm of torque, which cuts down the 0-100km/h timing to 4.13 seconds. Both variants have a top speed of 202km/h.

The G6 also debuts a fully upgraded intelligent driving suite with a new MicroFiber capacitive steering wheel, advanced driver-assist chip, and clearer long-range perception sensors. Functions such as adaptive cruise control, lane keeping, and automated parking are included. A high-performance cockpit chip further improves responsiveness and connectivity for both entertainment and driving tasks.

Battery safety is a key focus. The G6’s battery is housed in a reinforced structure with ballistic-grade protection, designed to withstand extreme heat of up to 1,000˚C and side pressure of up to 80 tonnes. Its durability is further extended with a 30 per cent longer lifespan compared to standard systems.

The G6 is fully imported from China and is available in five exterior colours: Arctic White, Graphite Grey, Midnight Black, Silver Frost, and Stellar Purple. Interior choices include Dark Grey or Light Grey.

A Black Edition is also available exclusively on the AWD Performance variant, adding gloss black 20-inch alloy wheels, black brake callipers, and a blacked-out XPENG badge.

Pricing starts at RM178,888 for the G6 RWD Long Range Pro, RM189,888 for the G6 AWD Performance, and RM193,888 for the G6 AWD Black Edition.

Every purchase includes a 5-year manufacturer warranty (or 120,000 km), 5 years of free service and maintenance (or 100,000 km), and an 8-year high-voltage battery warranty covering up to 160,000 km.

Volvo EC40 Single-Motor Arrives in Malaysia for 2026 with Lower Price and Fresh Upgrades

Volvo’s first electric-only crossover, the EC40, is getting a new addition to its line-up in Malaysia for the 2026 model year. The single-motor variant is now officially available, priced at RM248,888. That makes it RM40,000 cheaper than the current twin-motor version, while still coming in the fully-loaded Ultra trim.

Powering this new variant is Volvo’s second-generation permanent magnet rear electric motor, developed fully in-house. It produces 238hp, which is enough to send the EC40 from zero to 100 km/h in 7.3 seconds. Energy is supplied by a 70 kWh high-voltage battery, offering up to 488km of range on the WLTP cycle. For charging, the system supports fast DC input, taking the battery from 10% to 80% in just 26 minutes.

A fresh look is also part of the update. A new Sand Dune exterior colour has been added to the palette, first seen on the 2025 EX90. The shade carries a warm metallic tone with glass flakes that shimmer under sunlight, inspired by Sweden’s west coast dunes. Alongside Sand Dune, buyers can also opt for Aurora Silver, Onyx Black, or Crystal White.

Inside, the EC40 continues Volvo’s push for sustainability with a leather-free interior. The cabin is trimmed in Charcoal Connect suede textile and Charcoal Microtech, while new Cutting Edge accents on the dashboard and doors sharpen up the design.

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Proton Opens First Standalone DC Charging Hub in Tanjung Malim

Proton New Energy Technology Sdn Bhd (PRO-NET), a subsidiary of Proton, has launched its first DC Charging Hub at the company’s Tanjung Malim headquarters. The new facility, located at the administration building, is equipped with two DC chargers and four charging bays, providing a total output of 120kW and enabling up to four electric vehicles to charge at the same time.

Unlike earlier setups run through third-party operators, this hub is Proton’s first fully independent charging infrastructure. Managed directly by PRO-NET, it allows the company to control pricing, accessibility, and user experience without relying on external charge point providers.

Importantly, the hub is open to all EV owners regardless of brand, following approval of the ST EVCS License. This inclusivity, PRO-NET says, is intended to encourage more people to switch to electric vehicles while contributing to the development of Malaysia’s charging network.

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Chery Malaysia Prepares to Launch TIGGO 7 and TIGGO 8 Plug-in Hybrids – Bookings Open

Chery Malaysia is gearing up to expand its line-up with the arrival of two new plug-in hybrid SUVs – the TIGGO 7 PHEV and the TIGGO 8 PHEV. Both models will feature the brand’s latest Chery Super Hybrid (CSH) technology, which blends efficiency, performance, and safety in a package designed to appeal to Malaysian drivers.

The timing of these new models fits neatly with the government’s ongoing push for greener mobility, backed by policies such as the New Industrial Master Plan 2030 (NIMP 2030), the National Automotive Policy (NAP), and the National Energy Transition Roadmap (NETR). By introducing these hybrids, Chery is aligning its efforts with the country’s plans to move towards cleaner and more energy-efficient vehicles while encouraging industrial transformation in the automotive sector.

At the heart of both SUVs is Chery’s dedicated hybrid system, which brings together three major components. The first is the latest ACTECO 1.5 TGDi fifth-generation engine, which boasts a thermal efficiency of 44.5%, helping to deliver both fuel savings and strong power.

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Allianz Rolls Out Cash Rewards for Low-Mileage EV Drivers

Allianz General Insurance Company (Malaysia) Berhad has introduced a new way for electric vehicle (EV) owners to turn their green habits into extra cash. Through its newly launched Allianz EV EcoMiles programme, policyholders who drive fewer kilometres in their Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs) will be rewarded with up to 15% of their insurance premiums back in cash.

The programme is available to those who insure their BEVs under the Allianz Private Car Comprehensive policy for private use. Once activated via the MyAllianz app, customers can start earning tangible rewards simply by driving less.

Allianz General’s Chief Executive Officer, Sean Wang, said the idea behind EcoMiles was to back customers who have already made the switch to electric by recognising their eco-friendly driving habits. He explained that driving a BEV is already a step towards lowering carbon emissions, and with EcoMiles, those who use their cars sparingly—whether working from home or just driving on weekends—will be rewarded even more.

The initiative is designed to encourage sustainable lifestyles while giving something back to drivers who contribute to reducing their carbon footprint. According to Allianz, customers driving up to 10,000 kilometres per year will receive 15% of their net basic premium as cash, while those covering between 10,001 and 15,000 kilometres will get 10%. The net basic premium refers to the premium amount after the No Claim Discount (NCD) has been deducted.

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MACC Probes Alleged Irregularities in Malaysia’s Tyre Industry

The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) has launched a probe into possible misconduct within the tyre industry, with investigators said to be looking at issues ranging from suspected price manipulation to the importation of unsafe tyres.

According to a report by Berita Harian, the investigation is centred on the annual import of up to 300 containers of tyres. Some of these tyres are believed to be unsuitable for local road conditions, raising concerns about public safety.

At the heart of the probe is an estimated RM70 million in lost government revenue each year. This shortfall is linked to unpaid import duties, which include a 40% tariff on tyres shipped in from non-Asean Free Trade Area (AFTA) countries and a 10% Sales and Service Tax (SST). Authorities believe roughly 100,000 heavy vehicle tyres brought into Malaysia annually may have bypassed these duties.

When asked about the matter, MACC’s Special Operations Division senior director, Datuk Mohamad Zamri Zainul Abidin, confirmed that the commission is investigating but declined to disclose further details.

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