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In a momentous strategic maneuver under its “Goodyear Forward” transformation blueprint, The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company has unveiled plans for the complete shutdown of its Shah Alam facility in Malaysia by the close of 2024. This decisive action, affecting 550 positions, heralds a pivotal change in the company’s footprint in Malaysia and sparks inquiries into the future trajectory of its 180 Goodyear AutoCare outlets nationwide.

Established in 1972, the Shah Alam factory has stood as a cornerstone of Goodyear’s Malaysian operations, embodying a longstanding dedication to the local economy and automotive sector. However, its impending closure mirrors the overarching strategy delineated in the “Goodyear Forward” agenda, geared towards achieving annualised cost savings of $1.0 billion by 2025. This strategic roadmap encompasses shedding the Dunlop brand and rationalising the company’s global presence to bolster shareholder returns and fortify competitiveness within the sector.

The shuttering of the Shah Alam facility presents formidable hurdles for the local labour force, with approximately 550 employees confronting uncertain prospects. Goodyear has pledged to navigate this transition with dignity and transparency for affected personnel. Nevertheless, the broader ramifications for the local populace and the viability of Goodyear’s AutoCare network in Malaysia hang in the balance, eliciting apprehensions regarding the enduring economic repercussions on the region.

The verdict to terminate operations at the Shah Alam plant mirrors a broader pattern of global restructuring within the tire manufacturing domain, driven by imperatives to adapt to shifting market dynamics and technological progressions. As Goodyear charts this transformative trajectory, stakeholders within the automotive landscape will keenly monitor the fallout from these strategic moves. The closure not only signifies the denouement of an epoch for Goodyear in Malaysia but also underscores a pivot towards a more agile and targeted approach to its global endeavours.

Chery Malaysia welcomes the arrival of its first electric vehicle in Malaysia, the Chery Omoda E5, marking a significant milestone in the nation’s journey towards sustainable mobility. The Omoda E5 promises to not only enhance Malaysia’s green transportation landscape but also provide Malaysian consumers with a safe and eco-friendly travel experience.

Executive Vice President Leo Chen emphasised the strategic importance of local assembly operations for the E5, making it the first Chinese electric vehicle to be assembled in Malaysia. Chen highlighted the economic benefits, including job creation and support for Malaysia’s ambition to become a regional hub for electric vehicles.

Moreover, Chery Malaysia introduced its Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) initiative, aimed at promoting sustainability and eco-friendly practices among stakeholders.

The Omoda E5 features a powerful 3-in-1 flat-wire motor and advanced electronic control systems, offering a unique blend of strength and technology for an elevated driving experience. With benefits such as ultra-low power consumption, long-range capabilities, and fast charging, it ensures both efficiency and convenience for drivers.

The E5 is powered by a 61kWh high-capacity lithium iron phosphate blade battery ensuring long-range and swift charging while enhancing its eco-friendliness. Delivering an impressive 201hp and 340Nm of torque, while boasting a remarkable Worldwide Harmonised Light Vehicle Test Procedure (WLTP) 430km range.

Equipped with the latest ADAS 2.5 system, the OMODA E5 prioritises safety with 17 advanced functions, ensuring a secure driving experience for all occupants. These functions include Front Collision Warning (FCW) and Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) to prevent collisions, Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) for maintaining safe distances, and Lane Departure Warning (LDW) to alert drivers when drifting out of lanes.

Other features such as Multi Collision Brake (MCB), Traffic Jam Assistant (TJA), and Door Open Warning (DOW) enhance safety in various driving scenarios. Rear Cross Traffic Braking (RCTB), Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA), and Rear Collision Warning (RCW) provide additional protection while reversing or in traffic. Integrated Cruise Assist (ICA) works with ACC for smoother driving, while Lane Change Assist (LCA) and Lane Departure Prevention (LDP) aid in safe lane changes and lane-keeping.

The SUV also features Driving Monitoring System (DMS) for monitoring driver behavior and Blind-spot Detection (BSD) for detecting vehicles in adjacent lanes. Emergency Lane Keeping (ELK) intervenes in emergency situations, and a Departure Reminder prompts occupants to check the rear seats before exiting.

The intelligent cockpit, powered by a Qualcomm 8155 chip, provides seamless human-vehicle interaction, complemented by a 24.6-inch curved 2K HD dual-screen for an immersive visual experience. Additionally, a Premium Sony Sound System and dynamic ambient lighting enhance the entertainment value of the vehicle.

The E5 offers a luxurious and spacious interior, with customisable options and high-quality materials ensuring comfort and style. With ample cargo space and generous dimensions, the E5 combines elegance with practicality, making every journey a delightful experience.

Priced at RM146,800, the Omoda E5 comes with an outstanding 7-year or 150,000km vehicle warranty, an impressive 8-year or 160,000km battery warranty, and an equally robust 8-year or 160,000km drive unit warranty. Additionally, Chery Malaysia offers complimentary charging facilities for the first 2000 bookings, including a wall box charger, V2L charger, and charging credits worth RM1000 at EVC roaming.

The all-electric 2024 Dodge Charger Daytona has officially debuted, boasting a 400-volt system and a 100.5kWh battery capable of generating up to 670hp. Set to go on sale later this year, the electric muscle car promises impressive performance metrics, including a 0–100km/h acceleration in 3.3 seconds and a quarter-mile time of just over 11 seconds. Gone are the traditional V8 engines, replaced instead by dual electric motors and a unique feature: external speakers that produce a simulated engine noise.

Dodge’s foray into electric vehicles has been anticipated since the unveiling of the Charger Daytona SRT concept nearly two years ago. Despite some industry hesitance towards electric vehicles, Dodge remains committed to its electrification plans, as announced by CEO Tim Kuniskis three years ago.

The electric Charger will be available in two trims: R/T and Scat Pack, with both two-door coupe and four-door sedan versions. Additionally, Dodge plans to release a refreshed internal-combustion engine Charger next year, alongside a performance variant of the electric Charger Daytona called the Banshee.

The car’s design prioritises power over range, with the R/T offering 456hp (496 with a Power Shot) and the Scat Pack delivering 630hp (670 with the Power Shot). However, the increased power comes at the cost of range, with the Scat Pack offering an EPA estimated distance of 418km compared to the R/T’s 510km.

Built on the STLA Large platform, the Charger EV features a 100.5kWh battery with a usable capacity of 93.9kWh. The vehicle supports DC fast charging at up to 183kW, with charging times ranging from 32.5 to 52.4 minutes depending on the charger’s capacity.

The Charger EV comes standard with Direct Connection stage kits, offering additional power beyond factory settings. The vehicle also features large Brembo brakes and various drive modes tailored for different driving conditions.

One distinctive feature of the Charger Daytona is its simulated engine noise, emitted through external speakers. The noise intensity increases with acceleration, providing an auditory experience reminiscent of traditional muscle cars.

Despite the shift towards electrification, Dodge remains committed to its legacy of high-performance vehicles, offering a blend of tradition and innovation in its electric offerings.

Sime Darby Auto ConneXion (SDAC) has introduced the “Ford Assured” programme, aimed at providing customers with certified pre-owned Ford models and enhancing the overall pre-owned car buying experience. The programme focuses on instilling confidence and peace of mind among customers considering the purchase of pre-owned Ford vehicles.

At the core of the Ford Assured programme is a meticulous inspection and certification process to ensure that pre-owned Ford cars meet stringent quality and performance standards. This includes thorough vehicle standards, requiring pre-owned Ford vehicles to be below five years old or have mileage below 140,000km for Ranger and 80,000km for Everest, along with a comprehensive full-service history.

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In 2024, MOTUL celebrates a significant milestone as it announces its strengthened presence in Malaysia, building upon a rich 30-year legacy in the local automotive market. This strategic move underscores MOTUL Malaysia’s renewed commitment to excellence in lubricant technologies and closer ties with Malaysian automotive enthusiasts.

Founded in 1853, MOTUL has been a pioneer in lubricant technology, renowned for its innovation and excellence. With a comprehensive range of products designed to meet the highest standards of performance and reliability, MOTUL has been the preferred choice for generations of automotive professionals and enthusiasts worldwide.

MOTUL’s legacy extends to prestigious involvement in racing and motorsports, supported by partnerships with renowned teams across major racing events globally. Beyond sports and tradition, MOTUL continuously pushes boundaries in automotive performance, ensuring that every lubricant offers unmatched performance and reliability through racing.

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In a parliamentary session, Datuk Seri Tuan Ibrahim Tuan Man, an opposition Member of Parliament representing PN-Kubang Kerian, has called upon the government to eliminate the tolls at Gombak and Karak to alleviate congestion on the East Coast Expressway (LPT), as reported by NST.

Highlighting the age of the Gombak toll, which is among the oldest in the nation, Tuan Ibrahim emphasized the importance of abolishing it first. He suggested that to alleviate the burden on LPT users, only two entry and exit points should be utilized instead of the current four toll plazas.

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