In a groundbreaking showcase at CES 2024, Mercedes-Benz is driving innovation to new heights with a range of digital advancements aimed at revolutionising the customer experience both inside and outside the car. The centrepiece of this technological leap is the introduction of the MBUX Virtual Assistant, incorporating generative AI and advanced 3D graphics for a more natural, intuitive, and personalised interaction.
MBUX Virtual Assistant Leads the Digital Revolution
Powered by the all-new Mercedes-Benz Operating System (MB.OS), the MBUX Virtual Assistant stands as a testament to the brand’s commitment to an extraordinary digital experience.
The MBUX Virtual Assistant unveiled at CES 2024, introduces a human-like interface with natural and empathetic interactions. With four distinct emotions, it leverages generative AI and proactive intelligence to enhance life’s convenience and comfort. The integration of MB.OS and advanced 3D game-engine graphics extend to MBUX Surround Navigation, seamlessly merging route guidance and assistance for an unparalleled driving experience.
Honda is set to introduce a fresh logo for its electric vehicles (EVs), updating the current “H” that has been a constant presence on all Honda cars since 1981.
The new logo, described as representing “two outstretched hands,” features a thinner and more minimalist design compared to the current H, omitting the trapezoid border. This logo transformation bears a resemblance to Honda’s original logo from 1963, with a similar thin and top-heavy structure.
The updated logo is scheduled to debut on the upcoming 0 Series electric cars, a new lineup of next-generation EVs set to be introduced in the United States starting in 2026.
Saloon
The first two 0 Series vehicles, the Saloon and Space-Hub concepts, will showcase the redesigned emblem, with the Saloon serving as inspiration for a future production model in the American market.
Volkswagen unintentionally leaked images of the refreshed Golf during the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas. Although the official unveiling was not planned, the leak provided a glimpse into the design changes and improvements coming to the popular hatchback.
The leaked images, visible on the Golf’s infotainment system, showcase the GTI variant with several noticeable design modifications:
Thinner Headlights: The refreshed Golf features sleeker headlights, providing a more modern and refined look.
Chunkier Lower Grille: The lower grille has been redesigned, contributing to a more aggressive and sportier appearance.
Reshaped Air Intakes: Changes to the front air intakes further enhance the hatchback’s aesthetic appeal.
Interestingly, the grille depicted on the infotainment system differs from the real car displayed at CES, sparking speculation about potential variations in the Clubsport model or intentional misdirection by Volkswagen.
Chery Auto Malaysia is on a roll ever since it announced its re-entry into the Malaysian market in 2022. Since then it has been aggressively opening dealerships, service centres and introducing new models.
Chery Auto Malaysia’s Vice President, Lee Wen Hsiang, said in a recent media briefing that the company delivered more than 4,500 cars in 2023.
The company has also conducted a sales satisfaction survey from more than 1000 customers who had given the brand an exceptionally high score of 94 over 100.
Lee also pointed out that although Chery faced some initial comments upon its re-introduction, the brand is steadfast in prioritising customer issues.
Besides that, Chery Auto Malaysia is also committed to an aggressive nationwide expansion.
The brand currently has 32 outlets in operation across Malaysia with a workforce of 550 personnel. However by the end of 2024, Chery wants to increase its presence to at least 48 outlets with a 70% increase in its 3S and 4S outlets.
In terms of products, Chery has confirmed that the Omoda E5 will be introduced by the end of quarter one of 2024, but it also confirmed that the Tiggo 7 Pro will be introduced this year as well.
The C-segment SUV will compete against the Proton X70 and is powered by a 1.6-litre, four-cylinder, turbocharged engine mated to a 7-speed dual-clutch gearbox and makes a healthy 197hp and 290Nm of torque.
The Tiggo 7 Pro will come equipped with an ADAS suite, Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, ventilated seats, a panoramic sunroof, eight-speaker Sony sound system, a 540-degree camera, and a massive 24.6-inch dual screen.
The final feather in Chery’s cap as far as the Tiggo 7 Pro is concerned is that the SUV is expected to be locally assembled and its pricing is expected to be very close to the X70.
Honda has unveiled its “Honda 0 Series,” a forthcoming global electric vehicle (EV) series scheduled to debut in 2026. The series will kick off with two concept models, the Saloon and Space-Hub, showcased at CES 2024. These concept models provide a glimpse into Honda’s new design and engineering approach, emphasising thin, light, and wise principles, aimed at overcoming traditional constraints in battery electric vehicles.
Saloon
The Saloon, positioned as the flagship model, is built on a dedicated EV platform, featuring a low and wide exterior design complemented by a surprisingly spacious interior. Sustainability is at the forefront, with the use of eco-friendly materials both inside and outside the vehicle. The Saloon introduces advancements in steer-by-wire and motion control management systems, leveraging Honda’s expertise in robotics. Notably, it incorporates posture control to assist drivers in various situations, aligning with the “joy of driving” in the EV era. Honda plans to bring a production vehicle based on the Saloon concept to the North American market in 2026.
The Space-Hub, designed around the theme of “augmenting people’s daily lives,” prioritises a spacious cabin and excellent visibility. Following the “Thin, Light, and Wise” development approach, the Space-Hub offers a versatile interior that can accommodate various passengers, functioning as a “hub” connecting people and the external environment.
Space-Hub
Honda has introduced a new H mark logo exclusively for its next-generation EV models. This logo, representing two outstretched hands, signifies Honda’s commitment to transformation and ongoing pursuit of challenges and advancements. The logo will be featured on future Honda EVs, including models from the Honda 0 Series.
The Honda 0 Series embodies a fresh approach to EV development, guided by three core principles: Thin, Light, and Wise. These principles aim to challenge conventional limitations in battery electric vehicles and build upon Honda’s long-standing engineering philosophies, such as “M/M” (man maximum/machine minimum). Key aspects of the Honda 0 Series will include a dedicated thin EV platform for aerodynamic performance, software-defined mobility products for an intelligent user experience, advancements in design, automated driving, connected technologies, performance, and battery efficiency.
Space-Hub
The series will introduce a new design philosophy called “The Art of Resonance,” emphasising harmony among the environment, society, and users through sustainable materials and emotionally resonant design. Honda 0 Series models will feature an advanced driver-assistive system (ADAS) based on Honda SENSING Elite technologies, with plans to introduce the next generation of automated driving features in the late 2020s. The new AD system, developed around a “human-centric” safety concept, incorporates advanced AI, sensing, recognition, and driver monitoring technologies for human-like, natural, and high-precision risk predictions.
Saloon
Honda is also developing an original operating system for Honda 0 Series models, leveraging AI and driver data to learn user preferences and behaviours. The system will enhance the ownership experience by making suggestions and providing information about the surroundings, route guidance for the “last mile,” and continuous value addition based on user behaviour.
Space-Hub
The Honda 0 Series aims to deliver a sporty driving experience with electrification and performance technologies derived from Honda’s motorsports experience, including Formula 1 racing. The series will feature e-Axles for power and efficiency, advanced aerodynamic technologies, and a high-density battery offering ample range while minimising size. To address concerns about charging time and battery degradation, Honda 0 Series models launching in the late 2020s will offer fast-charging reduced to about 10-15 minutes from 15% to 80% battery capacity. Additionally, Honda aims to minimise battery degradation to less than 10% after 10 years of use through advanced battery system control technology.
According to a recent post on the Proton S70 owners group on Facebook, the waiting period for the delivery of the S70 model now takes between two to three months.
The best-selling variant for this model is the S70 Flagship, while the body color with the highest orders is Marine Blue. Therefore, customers who have ordered this variant and body color need to wait for about three months from the date the hire-purchase loan is approved.
The Proton S70 was officially launched at the end of November last year. This segment-C sedan model comes with four variant options, starting at a price of RM73,800.
Last month, Proton announced that S70 orders were reaching 900 units per week, totaling more than 3,000 units. The delivery of this sedan model will commence this month, with 109 units registered last year.
