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Government Targets 100 Additional EV Charging Points on Major Highways by 2025

Deputy Works Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Maslan has revealed that the Malaysian government aims to install an additional 100 electric vehicle (EV) charging points, particularly along tolled highways such as the North-South Expressway (PLUS), by 2025. This initiative is in response to the growing number of electric vehicles on the roads.

Currently, there are 60 EV charging points located at rest and service (R&R) areas and petrol stations along the PLUS Highway and East Coast Expressway (LPT). As stated by Bernama, these charging points, managed by operators like TNB Electron and Gentari, include locations such as Ayer Keroh R&R (northbound), Seremban R&R (northbound), and Paka R&R (northbound).

The move to increase the number of EV charging points aligns with the evolving landscape of future highways, addressing the challenges posed by the rising popularity of electric vehicles. Additionally, the government is exploring new concepts for R&R areas, smart highways, and energy-efficient solutions like Light Emitting Diode (LED) lighting.

Government Set to Announce Toll Fee Exemption for Christmas

Deputy Works Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Maslan has announced that the Malaysian government is expected to declare toll fee exemptions in conjunction with the Christmas celebration.

According to Bernama, the announcement, anticipated to be made on Friday, December 22, will confirm the date for toll exemptions during the festive period.

Maslan stated that the government allocates an average of RM21 million per day to highway concessionaires for toll exemptions.

In the current year, RM80.07 million was disbursed for toll-free initiatives during Hari Raya Aidilfitri, RM42.31 million for Deepavali, and RM41.21 million for the Chinese New Year.

The toll fee exemptions are part of the government’s efforts to facilitate smoother travel for citizens during festive seasons.

Ford Unveils 2024 F-150 Raptor R with 720hp and 867Nm of Torque!

Ford has revealed the 2024 model of its best-selling F-150, giving the high-performance Raptor R a power boost. The new Raptor R, known for its off-road capabilities, boasts an impressive 720hp from its supercharged 5.2-litre V8 engine. The power increase is achieved through a new engine calibration and modifications to reduce air inlet losses, enhancing airflow to the air filter.

The updated Raptor R’s engine is a derivative of the 5.2-litre mill found in the recent Mustang Shelby GT500, which delivered 760hp. The 2022 Raptor R had 700hp, and the latest model strikes a balance with improved low-end power while maintaining the same peak torque of 867Nm.

Visually, the 2024 Raptor R can be identified by its new headlights featuring daytime LEDs forming a half-square around the outer edge. Inside, there are minimal changes, except for the addition of an optional heads-up display—a first for the F-150 family.

This refresh is part of Ford’s efforts to keep the F-150 lineup competitive and maintain its position as a top-selling vehicle. The Raptor R, with its enhanced power and off-road capabilities, continues to be a standout offering in the F-150 range.

Daihatsu Halts Vehicle Shipments Amid Safety Test Irregularities Scandal

Daihatsu, the renowned Japanese automaker, finds itself in the midst of a significant crisis as it declares a temporary suspension of all vehicle shipments, both domestically and internationally. This decision comes in the wake of a damning investigation into safety test irregularities, a scandal that has sent shockwaves through the automotive industry.

The unfolding controversy dates back to April, when it was first revealed that Daihatsu had engaged in fraudulent practices related to crash safety tests, specifically concerning regulatory approval applications for four models. The focus of the investigation centred on door trim issues that failed to meet safety standards in a side impact test, affecting a staggering 88,000 units. Subsequently, in May, Daihatsu publicly admitted to irregularities in certification procedures for side impact collision tests involving hybrid versions of the Daihatsu Rocky and Toyota Raize.

The latest developments shed light on the gravity of the situation, with reports indicating the discovery of 174 new irregularities across 25 test items. This brings the total number of fraudulent cases to a staggering 238. The affected models include those produced under the Daihatsu brand and supplied to major players such as Toyota, Mazda, Subaru, and notably, Perodua.

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Mercedes-Benz Secures Permits for Turquoise-Coloured Marker Lights

Mercedes-Benz has achieved a significant milestone by becoming the first automaker globally to obtain permits for special exterior marker lights for automated driving in California and Nevada. The permits allow testing vehicles to incorporate these lights for a two-year period in California, while in Nevada, they extend to production vehicles until modifications in statutes occur, with validity until the model year 2026.

These distinctive turquoise-coloured marker lights, integrated into the front and rear lights, as well as the outer mirrors of testing vehicles, serve a vital role in enhancing public acceptance of automated driving and reinforcing road safety. By indicating the status of the automated driving system, these lights facilitate communication with other road users and assist law enforcement.

The initial application of these marker lights will be with Drive Pilot, recognised as the world’s first Level 3 system for conditionally automated driving with international type approval. Having obtained certification in Germany in 2021 and subsequently in Nevada and California in 2023, Drive Pilot is already available for ordering in Germany.

The choice of turquoise for these marker lights is deliberate, aiming for optimal visibility for rapid detection by other road users. Mercedes-Benz intends to standardise the use of turquoise, contributing to a universal understanding and acceptance of this innovative technology. This development marks a significant step toward the integration of automated driving systems into mainstream road usage.

Kia Canada Holds Back Deliveries to Manage Sales Figures

In an unexpected move, Kia Canada is reportedly holding off on delivering new vehicles ordered by Canadian customers until 2024. This decision appears to be motivated by a desire to control wholesale and retail performance in 2023, preventing the company from looking overly successful in its corporate office in South Korea.

Details of this strategy emerged from a leaked video call on November 17, involving a Kia Canada regional manager and various dealership representatives. The manager stated that amid a global slowdown, Kia Canada aims to avoid showing high overachievement in 2023 to better negotiate a favourable marketing budget from the global office for the following year.

While this approach might benefit Kia Canada in terms of budget allocation, it has raised concerns and criticisms. Customers who placed orders now face delays of weeks or even months, and dealers and sales staff, often working on commission, may experience financial consequences. Since customer orders and deposits don’t translate to sales until the vehicle is delivered, this decision could impact their income.

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