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2025 Honda CR-V e:FCEV Makes Debut In America with 434km of Driving Range

The 2025 Honda CR-V e:FCEV may appear similar to its conventional counterparts, but its distinguishing feature lies in its plug-in hydrogen setup, as indicated by the two fuel caps. Unlike traditional plug-in hybrids, this CR-V combines a fuel cell setup with a battery pack, making it a unique offering in the market.

Referred to as the only fuel-cell electric passenger vehicle made in America, the compact SUV boasts a sophisticated powertrain configuration. It features a front-mounted electric motor generating 174hp and 310Nm of torque. The compressed hydrogen gas tank, with a capacity of 4.3 kilograms, provides an EPA-certified driving range of 434km. Additionally, the separate 17.7-kilowatt-hour battery pack offers an EPA-estimated 46km of electric range.

Incorporating bidirectional charging capabilities akin to conventional plug-in hybrids and battery EVs, the CR-V e:FCEV includes a power supply connector that can deliver up to 1,500 watts of power through a standard 110-volt outlet. This feature enables users to power various appliances, camping equipment, tools, and even portable air conditioners.

Given the unique weight distribution of the SUV, Honda has completely re-tuned the suspension system at both the front and rear axles. The CR-V e:FCEV utilises a MacPherson strut front and a multi-link rear suspension setup. Improvements in rear lateral and torsional rigidity, up by 10 percent and 9 percent, respectively, over combustion engine models, are achieved through the implementation of new stabiliser bars, dampers, and springs.

This model marks Honda’s debut of the second generation of its fuel cell module, co-developed with General Motors and manufactured in Michigan. Notable enhancements include increased efficiency, durability, refinement, and cost-effectiveness compared to its predecessor. Production costs for the fuel cell have been substantially reduced by two-thirds compared to the discontinued Clarity Fuel Cell.

Visually, the CR-V e:FCEV features distinct design elements to set it apart from its non-hydrogen counterparts. Changes to the front fenders, bumper, partially black tailgate, clear taillights, and 18-inch black alloy wheels with a 10-spoke design contribute to its unique aesthetic. Underneath the SUV, a fully closed underfloor improves airflow for enhanced efficiency.

For the 2025 model year, the CR-V e:FCEV will be exclusively offered as a Touring trim level, boasting a comprehensive list of standard features. From electrically adjustable heated front seats to a 12-speaker Bose sound system, the Touring trim includes luxurious amenities such as dual-zone climate control, a heated steering wheel, a power tailgate, and a wireless charging pad. Standard technology features include a 9-inch touchscreen, a 10.2-inch digital instrument cluster, and wireless compatibility with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Scheduled for lease availability in California later this year, the 2025 Honda CR-V e:FCEV represents a significant step forward in Honda’s commitment to sustainable mobility and innovative technology.

smart Malaysia Celebrates 100 Days of Customer-Centric Excellence

smart Malaysia is elated to commemorate its first 100 days in the market, coinciding with a rare leap-year occurrence. As the company marks this significant milestone, it reiterates its unwavering commitment to delivering outstanding products and services to its esteemed customers.

During its inaugural 100 days, smart Malaysia organised the smart Tech Insight Day, a tailored event designed to enrich the understanding of existing smart #1 customers regarding their ownership experience. Covering crucial topics such as warranty details, product features, the convenient charging ecosystem, and real-life owner anecdotes, this event set the stage for future engagements aimed at nurturing the smart community. Furthermore, customers benefitted from enhanced convenience through the Hello smart App platform, where they could readily access FAQs to swiftly address their queries.

Looking ahead, smart Malaysia will roll out more events, including driving experiences for smart owners and enthusiasts, providing them with the opportunity to explore the dynamic driving characteristics of the smart #1. This initiative seeks to deepen engagement and cultivate a robust network of smart enthusiasts.

With a notable expansion of its dealer network from 10 operational dealerships in 2023 to soon-to-be 13, including the forthcoming establishment of the first-ever centre in East Malaysia, smart Malaysia continues to broaden its footprint. The smart #1 BRABUS remains the preferred choice among the customer base, underscoring its enduring appeal and exceptional performance. Additionally, smart #1 Premium and Pro owners appreciate the simplicity and efficiency offered for city driving.

smart Malaysia is dedicated to expanding its charging infrastructure and forging partnerships in response to the growing demand for EVs nationwide. With 70% of charging station data already integrated into the Hello smart app, EV owners can anticipate even broader coverage as collaborative efforts with key stakeholders in the EV ecosystem progress. This collaboration aims to facilitate convenient access to charging facilities nationwide, further bolstering the adoption of electric vehicles. Additionally, the updated app now facilitates debit or credit card payments, enabling owners to conveniently pay for charging sessions or purchase in-car internet data directly through the app.

Stellantis Malaysia Introduces One-Stop Call Center for Peugeot, DS, and Citroen Models

Starting from March 1, 2024, Stellantis Malaysia National Sales Company (Stellantis Malaysia) will inaugurate a comprehensive one-stop call centre dedicated to Peugeot, DS, and Citroen vehicles in Malaysia. This initiative is part of Stellantis’ strategic shift towards consolidating sales distribution and enhancing the ownership experience of its vehicles under Stellantis Malaysia’s management, aimed at providing seamless customer care throughout this transition period.

The newly established call centre will serve as a centralised hub for all customer support services, catering to both sales and after-sales inquiries, as well as addressing any complaints or concerns. Owners of Peugeot, DS, and Citroen vehicles can conveniently reach out to the call centre through the following channels:

– Toll-Free Number: 1800-18-STLA (7852)
– Email Address: customersupport.my@stellantis.com

Operating hours for the call centre are scheduled from Monday to Sunday, spanning from 8:45 AM to 5:45 PM. Furthermore, to ensure continuous assistance during emergencies, Stellantis Malaysia will extend 24-hour support for accident and breakdown cases, underscoring their commitment to providing prompt and reliable customer service.

Volvo Car Malaysia Unveils Enhanced 2024 C40 Recharge Pure Electric

Volvo Car Malaysia has introduced the updated model year 2024 version of the C40 Recharge Pure Electric, marking Volvo’s commitment to electrification and sustainability. This crossover SUV, Volvo’s first electric-only model, now offers impressive enhancements, including an extended electric range of up to 550km, faster DC charging capabilities for its larger 82kWh battery pack, and advanced pixel headlight technology.

In Malaysia, Volvo Car Malaysia presents the top-of-the-line variant featuring a twin motor, all-wheel-drive (AWD) configuration. This variant showcases a more powerful second-generation permanent magnet rear electric motor, developed in-house by Volvo. With an output of 245hp at the rear axle and a new 156hp asynchronous electric motor at the front axle, the new configuration emphasises rear power delivery, enhancing the driving experience with a maximum power output of 402hp.

Moreover, the upgraded 82kWh battery pack, an improvement from the previous 78kWh capacity, now supports a higher maximum input of 200kW for DC charging. This enhancement enables a remarkable 10 to 80 per cent charge in just 27 minutes, significantly reducing charging times. Coupled with the efficiency improvements in battery cooling and the new twin-motor configuration, the updated Volvo C40 Recharge Pure Electric boasts a substantially improved range, offering 100km more than its predecessor.

These improvements make the fully electric models even more attractive than they already were and are a big step towards becoming a fully electric car maker by 2030.

Designed from the ground up to be fully electric, the Volvo C40 Recharge Pure Electric features a distinctive design and cutting-edge safety technology, making it a standout in the compact SUV segment. The 2024 model year upgrades further solidify Volvo’s position as a leader in the e-luxury segment.

Additional enhancements include new pixel headlights with sensor-controlled forward lighting, new 19-inch alloy wheels for improved aerodynamics, and a new exterior colour option, Vapour Grey, joining the existing range of colourways.

Customers can enjoy 5-year complimentary Digital Services, providing access to Google Assistant, Google Maps, Google Play Store, and remote functions through the Volvo Cars app. Despite these significant upgrades, the updated Volvo C40 Recharge Pure Electric maintains a similar price point to its predecessor at RM288,888, offering flexible financing options and lower interest rates through Volvo Car Financial Services.

To make ownership more accessible, Volvo Car Malaysia is offering an instant rebate of RM10,000 for online orders of the Volvo C40 Recharge Pure Electric placed before 31 March 2024. Bookings for all Volvo fully electric cars can be conveniently made online at www.volvocars.com/my/cars/c40-electric.

Proton Global Services Ventures into New Frontiers

As Proton continues to advance its business expansion efforts, the national automotive brand is diversifying its operations and revenue streams by exploring opportunities both within and beyond the automotive ecosystem. Leading this initiative is Proton Global Services (PGS), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Proton Edar, which has rapidly become a significant contributor to Proton’s business network.

Established in 2021 with just one F&B and merchandise outlet, PGS has significantly broadened its scope of operations to now include six key areas: Lifestyle, Engineering, Training, New Energy, Logistics, and R3 Motorsports. Under the leadership of its CEO, Lee Yeet Chuan, revenues have surged from below RM1 million in 2021 to 19 times that amount by the end of 2023.

For Proton buyers and enthusiasts, the most visible areas of PGS’s business are the Lifestyle and R3 Motorsports divisions. The Lifestyle division manages the Proton Café and sells Proton merchandise, while R3 Motorsports focuses on developing performance variants and overseeing Proton’s racing activities.

The Proton Café, launched in 2021, offers customers freshly brewed premium coffee and food items in a relaxed atmosphere. Currently, 16 outlets operate at Proton dealerships, with plans to expand to 25 outlets by 2025. Additionally, Proton branded merchandise, previously available, is now commercially marketed under PGS. Leveraging the demand for Proton and R3 branded items, there are currently 20 Proton merchandise partners nationwide, alongside a virtual shop at protonmerchandise.com for online sales.

R3 Motorsports, perhaps the most recognisable division, celebrated its 20th anniversary in 2023 with the launch of the Proton X50 R3 20th Anniversary Edition. This year, the focus is on developing a Proton S70 R3 racing car with the aim of participating in the S1K race, while also boosting sales for their high-performance R3 lubricants.

Beyond retail opportunities, PGS undertakes projects within Proton’s ecosystem, providing additional revenue streams as profits are shared with Proton Edar. Examples include upgrading lighting at Proton’s casting plant for energy efficiency and supplying furniture and commissioning office space for department transfers to Proton Tanjong Malim.

The New Energy division focuses on renewable energy introduction to improve the company’s ESG rating and retails energy-efficient solutions. Initiatives include selling and installing solar PV cells to Proton dealers and vendors and collaborating on mobile EV charging proof of concept projects.

BYD Seal Early Booking Campaign Extended Following 1,300+ Bookings Surge

During the recent launch of the BYD Seal at The Exchange TRX, Sime Darby Motors (SDM) and BYD Malaysia celebrated the overwhelming success of the electric vehicle model, which garnered over 1,300 bookings within just 4 days. Responding to the tremendous demand for the electric sedan, SDM is thrilled to extend its early booking campaign until March 3, 2024. Customers who place a booking for the BYD Seal through the official website or at nationwide showrooms before the deadline will receive enticing benefits, including complimentary home chargers and free Gentari or ChargEV charging credits worth RM800, subject to Terms and Conditions.

According to Jeffrey Gan, Managing Director, Southeast Asia, SDM, the BYD Seal has received rave reviews from car enthusiasts. Gan stated, “The new model has been widely recognised for its superior quality and exceptional performance, coupled with a highly competitive pricing strategy.” He emphasised the comprehensive BYD network coverage across all regions, ensuring excellent service for all customers, which underscores the confidence in BYD’s products in Malaysia. This reaffirms SDM’s commitment to delivering innovative, high-quality vehicles and unparalleled customer service.

The BYD Seal is available in RWD Premium and Performance AWD variants, priced from RM179,800 and RM199,800, respectively. It offers a variety of colours such as Arctic Blue (exclusive to the Performance variant), Cosmos Black, Atlantis Grey, and Aurora White (for the Premium model).

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