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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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2026 Tank 400 Plug-in Hybrid SUV Lands in China with Tech Upgrades and Fresh Powertrain Option

The Tank 400 plug-in hybrid SUV has just rolled out in updated form and is already being showcased in 178 cities across China. Great Wall Motor’s rugged off-roader hasn’t abandoned its mechanical presence, but for 2026 it comes with some notable tweaks in styling, technology, and powertrain choices that should make it even more appealing to buyers.

On the outside, the SUV retains its squared-off, muscular look but gains subtle detail changes. The most eye-catching is a new colour option called Dunhuang Purple, which gives the big SUV a more distinctive presence.

The front bumper has been reworked with black mesh elements that sharpen its bold stance, while at the back, the once-prominent external spare tyre guard has been deleted. The badge arrangement has also been revised, with the “GWM” lettering now positioned at the centre of the tailgate.

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Zeekr 9X PHEV SUV Debuts in China with 1,381hp and Up to 1,250km Range

Geely’s premium brand Zeekr has unveiled its latest flagship, the Zeekr 9X, in China—a full-size plug-in hybrid SUV packing some jaw-dropping numbers. Launched on September 29, the 9X comes with as much as 1,381hp, advanced air suspension, and a claimed mixed driving range of up to 1,250km.

The reception has been explosive: during its presale, the brand racked up more than 42,000 orders within the first hour.

For context, Zeekr was introduced in 2021 as Geely’s luxury battery-electric brand, but this year marks a big pivot. The company has shifted its strategy to include plug-in hybrids, with the 9X being the first of its kind. Positioned as a halo model, it shows how seriously Zeekr intends to compete in the high-end SUV space.

Measuring 5,239mm long, 2,029mm wide and 1,819mm tall, with a wheelbase of 3,169mm, the 9X is actually longer and wider than a Mercedes-Benz GLS. The design follows current Chinese luxury trends with C-shaped LED headlights, a bold grille, and active air intake shutters.

At the back, there’s a large circular taillight unit, and the SUV sits on 22-inch alloys available in different designs. Buyers can choose from five exterior colours: black, white, silver, grey and purple.

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Could Malaysia See a 2026 Toyota Hilux with Standard 2.8-L Turbo-Diesel and Mild-Hybrid?

The Toyota Hilux has long been a familiar sight on Malaysian roads, whether it’s serving as a rugged workhorse for businesses or doubling as a reliable family and lifestyle truck. Toyota Malaysia markets it with the usual emphasis on toughness, durability, and a servicing network that stretches across the country—qualities that explain why it continues to be one of the best-selling pickups in the market.

But if recent leaks from Australia are anything to go by, the next-generation Hilux due in 2026 could be very different from what Malaysians are used to. Documents filed for homologation reveal changes that point to a more powerful and tech-laden truck, though they may come with higher costs and fewer body style options.

According to Drive, the filings, listed under new “GUN2” model codes (the current Hilux runs under “GUN1”), suggest a major reshuffle in the powertrain line-up. Central to this is the 2.8-litre turbo-diesel engine, which could become the standard across the range.

In contrast, the 2.7-litre petrol engine looks set to be dropped, particularly from the lower trims. Another notable omission could be the extra-cab body style, leaving buyers with only single-cab and double-cab choices.

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Toyota and Mazda Reportedly Teaming Up on Next-Generation MX-5 and GR86

Japan’s leading car magazine Best Car has reported that Toyota and Mazda may be co-developing the next generation of the Mazda MX-5 and Toyota GR86. If true, the collaboration would mark a major shift in Toyota’s sports car strategy and ensure the continued future of two of the world’s best-known affordable performance cars.

Toyota and Mazda first entered into a formal partnership in 2015, later strengthening it into a capital alliance in 2017. Beyond vehicle supply arrangements, the two companies have collaborated on electric vehicles and software-defined vehicle development.

Best Car’s October issue notes that the close ties between Toyota Chairman Akio Toyoda and Mazda President Masahiro Moro have helped strengthen the relationship. Both executives are long-time drivers with experience in competitive racing, which has shaped their shared perspective on building sports cars.

The MX-5 holds a unique position in the global car industry. Since its introduction in 1989, it has been the world’s best-selling roadster and a catalyst for other two-seat sports cars such as the Porsche Boxster, BMW Z3, and Audi TT. Meanwhile, the GR86 has carried Toyota’s reputation in the affordable sports coupe segment, originally developed in partnership with Subaru.