BMW has officially introduced Level 3 highly automated driving technology in its new BMW 7 Series (excluding the i7 eDrive50 and i7 M70 xDrive). Named the BMW Personal Pilot L3, this advanced driving function enables drivers to momentarily disengage from the steering wheel and shift their attention away from the road under specific conditions. The system takes charge of crucial driving tasks, including speed control, maintaining safe distances from other vehicles, and precise lane positioning.
BMW enthusiasts can place orders for the BMW Personal Pilot L3 option starting December of this year, with installations expected to commence in March of the following year. Priced at 6,000 euros (RM30k), this cutting-edge technology will initially be available exclusively in Germany.
BYD officially launched its latest offering, the BAO 5, under the specialised sub-brand FANGCHENGBAO. Positioned as a “Super Hybrid Hardcore SUV,” the BAO 5 stands out with cutting-edge technology, off-road prowess, and a commitment to energy efficiency.
The BAO 5 introduces the Dual Mode Off-road (DMO) Super Hybrid Platform, a revolutionary predominantly electric-driven, professional-grade off-road system. With an unparalleled combination of power sources, it features the world’s first longitudinal EHS electric hybrid system, an off-road rear-drive powertrain, and a potent longitudinal 1.5T high-performance engine. This configuration delivers an impressive 677hp of power and 760Nm of combined torque, enabling the BAO 5 to accelerate from 0 to 100km in just four seconds.
Designed for off-road enthusiasts, the BAO 5 showcases exceptional off-road capabilities with a millisecond-response electric four-wheel drive system offering 16 driving modes. This allows effortless navigation across diverse terrains, from rugged mountains to swampy landscapes, while maintaining an impressive minimum turning radius of 3.4 meters.
Ensuring robustness and safety, the BAO 5 features a Non-Load-Bearing Frame with Cell To Chassis (CTC) technology, providing a lower center of mass and a balanced 50:50 axle load ratio. The chassis is reinforced with 96% high-strength steel to prioritize user safety. The vehicle incorporates the ultra-safe blade battery and is equipped with an L2+ Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) for enhanced safety.
Inside the smart cockpit, the BAO 5 offers a luxurious driving experience with the exclusive FiLink UI, supporting multi-screen interconnection and gesture operation. Users can personalise their experience with various customisation options, including paint colours, interior schemes, wheel hub sizes, and pedal choices. Nappa leather seats and an 18-speaker Devialet audio system further elevate the driving experience.
Leveraging the advantages of the DMO platform, the BAO 5 achieves a Comprehensive Long Trip Capability (CLTC) range of up to 1,200km. This, combined with a 6kW vehicle-to-load (VTL) discharge capability and an optional 2.5-ton trailer hitch, enhances the vehicle’s suitability for extended outdoor activities.
FANGCHENGBAO’s strategic focus on professionalism and individuality is evident with the BAO 5 launch. The brand operates various store types, including sales service centres, MINI centres, and retail centres, catering to diverse consumer needs. The BAO 5 joins FANGCHENGBAO’s product lineup, alongside the previously unveiled BAO 8 and BAO 3 models.
In development for Malaysian automotive enthusiasts, Bermaz Motor is gearing up to introduce the facelifted Mazda CX-5 to the local market. The anticipation surrounds the 2024 model, which boasts a series of updates, both in terms of design and features, promising a refreshed driving experience for Malaysian consumers.
In August 2020, the CX-5 received a running update; however, Malaysia was not included in this. After receiving a running change in October 2019, our CX-5 has been the same up till this point. The complete redesign was first unveiled in September 2021.
Hyundai-Sime Darby Motors (HSDM) has officially launched the fourth-generation Tucson in Malaysia, introducing a key contender in the competitive C-SUV segment. After opening the order books and presenting the model publicly, the Tucson aims to build on its legacy as Hyundai’s best-selling SUV, with over seven million units sold globally since 2004.
The Tucson’s design, centred around ‘Sensuous Sportiness,’ features a Parametric Jewel grille with concealed daytime running lights, full-width tail lamps, angular wheel arches, and refined surfaces. The interior showcases a modern, wrap-around design with an eight-inch infotainment touch-screen supporting wireless Android Auto/Apple CarPlay and voice recognition.
The three fully imported (CBU) Tucson models from South Korea—the 2.0 Lite, 1.6T Plus, and 1.6T Max—are all front-wheel drive. While the other two variants combine a turbocharged Smartstream 1.6 TGDi engine that develops 180PS and 265Nm of torque with a seven-speed wet dual-clutch gearbox (DCT) that features push-button gear selection, the 2.0 Lite’s Smartstream MPI engine produces 156PS and 192Nm of torque and is paired with a six-speed automatic.
Standard safety features across variants include seven airbags, electronic parking brake with auto hold, Blind Spot Collision Warning, and Safe Exit Warning. The range-topping 1.6T Max boasts additional amenities, including powered and heated/ventilated seats, a 10.25-inch digital instrument panel, power tailgate, auto wipers, wireless phone charging, and Hyundai SmartSense safety suite.
The Tucson is offered in Amazon Gray Metallic, Phantom Black Pearl, Creamy White Pearl, Crimson Red Pearl, and Silky Bronze Metallic. Pricing, on-the-road before insurance, starts at RM158,888 for the 2.0 Lite, RM178,888 for the 1.6T Plus, and RM195,888 for the 1.6T Max. The first 100 customers who book by December 31, 2023, receive a complimentary extended warranty (five years/300,000km) and free service package (three years/50,000km), with the option available at RM10,000 thereafter.
Bookings can be made at any authorised Hyundai sales outlet nationwide or on Hyundai’s online booking platform.
At the Polestar Day celebration in Los Angeles, California, Polestar formally presented the production version of their much awaited Polestar 5. The carmaker, supported by Geely, unveiled the Polestar 5 alongside its current models, giving fans a preview of what’s to come from the company.
The Polestar 5, slated for an official launch in 2025, maintains the sleek and distinctive design traits seen in other Polestar models while asserting its own unique personality. The sedan features split headlights reminiscent of the Polestar 4, and although it lacks a traditional grille, the front design incorporates expressive lines and creases, giving the Polestar 5 a distinctive character.
In the spirit of Malaysia Madani’s unity, the Malaysian government, in a Cabinet Meeting on January 18, 2023, has approved toll-free access for highway users for two days in celebration of Deepavali, observed on November 12, 2023. The Ministry of Works (KKR) has collaborated with concession companies to implement this toll-free initiative, scheduled to commence on November 11, 2023, at 12:01 am and conclude on November 12, 2023, at 11:59 pm. Toll exemptions will be applicable to all vehicle classes at all toll plazas except those at the national border, namely the Sultan Iskandar Building Toll Plaza (BSI) and the Tanjung Kupang Toll Plaza, Johor.
This initiative is a gesture of celebration for all Malaysians, with a special focus on the Indian Hindu community marking the Deepavali festival. Aligned with the Government’s Unity aspirations, the toll-free access aims to ease the burden on the people, fostering unity across religious, ethnic, and belief diversity. The chosen date is strategic to avoid traffic congestion during travel back to hometowns and return to the city. It also facilitates logistical operations and coordination, including traffic control management, additional facilities, and other logistical needs at rest areas and Rest & Service Areas (R&R) along the highway. The estimated traffic volume during these two days is approximately 11.8 million vehicles.
Highway users are encouraged to plan their journeys wisely, taking advantage of the toll-free period. Adherence to recommended travel schedules and safety practices is emphasised to ensure a safe and meaningful Deepavali celebration with loved ones. The toll-free initiative reflects the government’s commitment to fostering harmony and inclusivity in the nation.
