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BMW Malaysia Unveils the Enhanced BMW i5 eDrive40 M Sport – 340hp, 582km Electric Range

BMW Malaysia has introduced the updated version of the BMW i5 eDrive40 M Sport, setting a new benchmark in the realm of electric mobility. This visionary sedan, an integral part of the esteemed BMW 5 Series lineup, seamlessly blends enhanced charging capabilities and streamlined functionality with the dynamic performance and elegance synonymous with the brand.

The BMW i5 eDrive40 M Sport now comes equipped with AC Charging Professional as standard, boasting 22 kW charging capabilities. This advancement translates to significantly reduced charging times, allowing for a 0-100% charge in under 4 hours and 15 minutes. Additionally, high-power DC charging of up to 205 kW enables a swift charge from 0% to 80% in just 34 minutes.

In collaboration with leading local EV charging providers, BMW Malaysia ensures access to over 1,700 charging stations nationwide for BMW i5 owners. Partnerships with ChargeEV, Yinson GreenTech, JomCharge, Gentari, and others ensure seamless access to charging facilities, supporting the evolving landscape of Electric Mobility in Malaysia.

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Lotus Cars Malaysia Opens Its First Lotus Store At Pavilion Damansara Heights

Lotus Cars is strengthening its presence in Malaysia with the inauguration of its first Lotus Store at Pavilion Damansara Heights, reinforcing the marque’s commitment to the Malaysian market.

Spanning 173.58 m², the Lotus Store in Kuala Lumpur opened its doors 10 months after the launch of the first all-electric Hyper-SUV Lotus Eletre in April last year. The Lotus Eletre has been well-received in Malaysia, with 50 cars already delivered as of this month and another 200 cars on their way.

Designed to reflect Lotus’s new international corporate identity, the Lotus Store showcases two of the brand’s latest offerings in Malaysia – the Eletre and the Emira sports car. It also features a configurator room where customers can personalise and accessorise their vehicles, a dedicated wing for exclusive Lotus merchandise and apparel, and a well-appointed lounge area.

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Pasir Gudang International Racing Circuit Might Get A Revival

The Pasir Gudang International Racing Circuit, once a thriving hub for motorsport enthusiasts, now stands in disrepair, a shadow of its former glory. Despite its prestigious history of hosting international motorsport events, the circuit has faced significant challenges leading to its decline. However, there is renewed hope for its revival as efforts are underway to address its issues and restore its prominence in the motorsport world.

Established in 1986, the Pasir Gudang circuit enjoyed a prestigious status, hosting renowned events like the Malaysia Grand Prix and the Formula Three Motorcar Championship. However, its decline began in 1997 following a tragic accident that led to concerns about safety and track conditions, deterring motorsports organisations from participating in events.

Financial constraints and disputes over land ownership rights hindered efforts to revive the circuit. Despite attempts to attract investors and organise innovative events like night racing, the circuit continued to deteriorate, with structures falling into disrepair and vandalism.

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Financial Strain on Proton Suppliers Threatens Automotive Industry Chain

More than a hundred parts suppliers and vendors associated with Proton Holdings Bhd are facing severe financial strain due to escalating operational costs. Despite efforts by the Proton Vendors Association (PVA) to engage with the national carmaker regarding their challenges, appeals have gone unanswered, leading to a precarious business environment for suppliers.

According to NST, Datuk Liu Guoquan, president of the Malaysian Fujian General Chamber of Commerce, suppliers are grappling with decreased orders, resulting in financial instability. Proton’s failure to meet promised quantities of parts orders for its models, including the X50, X70, and X90, has led to a production output reduction of 30% to 50%, exacerbating the situation for suppliers.

The financial strain faced by suppliers poses a significant threat to the automotive industry chain, potentially affecting approximately 50,000 employees. Many vendors are experiencing financial losses and some are forced to cease operations altogether, raising concerns about the industry’s sustainability.

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Mavcom Unveils Revised Passenger Service Charges Effective From June 1, 2024

The Malaysian Aviation Commission (Mavcom) has unveiled revisions to the passenger service charges (PSC) for the First Regulatory Period (RP1), effective from June 1, 2024, to December 31, 2026. The updated rates aim to balance consumer welfare, promote sustainable recovery, and ensure financial stability in the aviation sector amid evolving market conditions.

Mavcom’s statement outlines the revised PSC rates, which vary based on departure and transfer locations within Malaysia. The rates range from RM7 to RM73 and include a security charge for airport security services.

The domestic departure PSC remains unchanged at RM11 for all airports except Senai International Airport, which operates under a separate rate structure.

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Malaysia’s Chance to Host Formula E-Prix Slipping Away

Malaysia’s chance to host the Formula E-Prix final next year appears to be slipping away, with Thailand emerging as a likely contender despite initial favour towards Kuala Lumpur. The delay in response from the Malaysian government has led to uncertainty, potentially costing the nation an opportunity to showcase its potential on the global stage.

According to FMT, Formula E extended an invitation to Kuala Lumpur to host the final race annually until 2030, but the Malaysian government has yet to respond. Formula E CEO James Dodd sought an audience with Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim to discuss the event’s benefits, but the lack of a decisive response has put Malaysia’s bid in jeopardy.

While the cost of hosting the event remains undisclosed, there are concerns about the financial burden it may impose, especially in light of other costly initiatives like the attempted bid for the 2026 Commonwealth Games. However, economic projections suggest significant potential benefits, including injecting millions into the local economy and creating thousands of jobs over the next decade.

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