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In an eagerly awaited mid-life facelift, the Audi E-tron GT is poised to undergo a series of eye-catching styling revisions, with speculation rife about the introduction of a high-performance RS variant boasting a staggering 750bhp.

Scheduled for launch towards the end of 2024, the electric powerhouse, aimed squarely at the Tesla Model S, has been recently reported undergoing final testing in Germany. Reports suggest that the design overhaul aims to align the E-tron GT with the upcoming Audi Q6 E-tron SUV, slated for release in February 2024.

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Toyota is set to captivate truck enthusiasts with the upcoming release of the enhanced Toyota Hilux, boasting a mild-hybrid version designed to elevate both power and efficiency in this popular pickup.

At the heart of the innovation is a 48-volt mild-hybrid system seamlessly integrated into the powertrain, delivering an additional punch of 16hp and 65Nm of torque. This hybrid system complements Toyota’s robust turbocharged 2.8-litre diesel four-cylinder engine, which independently generates 201hp and an impressive 500Nm of torque. Notably, the 48V lithium battery powers the motor, contributing to a five per cent improvement in efficiency compared to the standard diesel powertrain.

Despite the absence of an electric-only mode, Toyota’s optimised stop-start system, coupled with the electric motor, extends fuel savings by allowing the engine to remain off for longer durations in heavy stop-and-go traffic. The diesel engine’s idle is also reduced to 600 rpm, further enhancing fuel efficiency. While specific fuel economy figures are yet to be disclosed, the automaker emphasises a noteworthy five per cent increase in overall efficiency.

Beyond its advanced powertrain, the Hilux Hybrid 48V introduces Toyota’s Multi-terrain Select system, featuring six driving modes—Dirt, Mud, Rock, Sand, Deep Snow, or Automatic mode, allowing the truck to intuitively adapt to diverse driving conditions. Recognising the Hilux’s off-road legacy, engineers have fortified the hybrid pickup by waterproofing critical electrical components, ensuring it can confidently navigate through challenging terrains, including wading through water up to 27.5 inches deep.

In a bold stance against the prevailing shift towards electric vehicles, Toyota’s Gazoo Racing division expresses unwavering confidence in the future of hydrogen combustion engines. Masahito Watanabe, Head of Gazoo Racing, asserts that internal combustion engines, particularly those powered by hydrogen, can coexist with the growing trend of electrification.

2021 Toyota GR Yaris Prototype with hydrogen engine

Watanabe highlighted that the internal combustion engine, specifically through hydrogen combustion, still holds untapped potential in the pursuit of zero-emission vehicles. He emphasised the commitment to exploring diverse technologies rather than succumbing to complete electrification. However, he acknowledged a significant obstacle: the lack of infrastructure for hydrogen vehicles, hindering enthusiasts who seek easy access to filling stations.

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In a high-stakes law enforcement operation, authorities engaged in a dramatic high-speed pursuit involving 28 patrol cars chasing a Perodua Bezza in Cyberjaya.

The pursuit unfolded after police officers in Petaling Jaya observed suspicious behaviour from the car’s occupants, consisting of three men and a woman. When the police attempted to stop the vehicle, the suspects evaded capture by accelerating, triggering a dramatic chase.

According to NST, during the pursuit, two of the male occupants managed to escape from the vehicle, while a man and a woman were successfully detained by law enforcement. A subsequent investigation of the car revealed the presence of burglary tools, suggesting potential criminal activity.

The Petaling Jaya District police chief confirmed the incident and the subsequent arrest of the apprehended suspects. Authorities are expected to issue a media statement providing additional details about the case.

In November 2023, Proton continued to assert its robust presence in the automotive market, achieving noteworthy sales figures. The company recorded a total registration of 12,296 units (domestic + export), securing its second position among automotive brands in a fiercely competitive market.

With a total Year-to-Date (YTD) sales figure reaching an impressive 141,900 units (Domestic: 138,876 units, Export: 3,024 units) up to November, Proton has not only surpassed the sales volume of the entire previous year but has also demonstrated a commendable 12% growth year-on-year, solidifying its market share at 19.7%.

A significant highlight for Proton in November was the launch of the Proton S70 on the 28th. The model experienced a threefold increase in bookings following its launch and price announcement. With a tagline emphasising “Intelligence that Evolves,” the Proton S70 has resonated well with consumers, surpassing 900 bookings per week. The total bookings for the S70 have already exceeded 3,000 units, showcasing its rapid popularity and alignment with the preferences of the Malaysian market.

The Proton X Series, comprising the X50, X70, and X90 models, has continued to garner praise and consumer interest. The series, known for its innovation, performance, and style, has reached a remarkable milestone of 201,710 units on the road. The Proton X50, a frontrunner in the B-segment SUV category, contributed significantly to November’s success with 2,115 units sold, bringing the total since launch to 102,325 units. The X70, a robust contender in the C SUV segment, maintained its strong market standing with 95,100 units sold since launch. The X90, introduced less than a year ago, has established itself as a leader in the D SUV segment, with 4,285 units in sales, further contributing to the overall success of the X Series.

Proton’s PIES models (Saga, Iriz, Persona, Exora) have played a pivotal role in the company’s growth, recording a substantial 34.3% growth compared to YTD 2022. The Proton Saga, in particular, demonstrated enduring popularity, securing the highest sales with 6,349 units sold in November, marking the second-highest for the year.

The Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) is set to implement a substantial reduction of up to 50 per cent in traffic summonses as part of the MADANI One-Year Program. The program is scheduled to take place from December 8 to 10 at the National Stadium Bukit Jalil grounds.

According to Bernama, Datuk Mohd Azman Ahmad Sapri, the Director of Traffic Investigation and Enforcement Department Bukit Aman, clarified that the reduced summonses will not apply to certain traffic offences for the year 2023. These exceptions include accident summonses, court cases with arrest warrants or still in trial, and offences that cannot be compounded.

According to Sapri, individuals can make payments for summonses exclusively at the inspection and traffic summons payment counters at the National Stadium Bukit Jalil grounds.

The payment counters will be operational from 9 am to 4 pm on December 8 (Friday) and from 9 am to 6 pm on December 9 and 10 (Saturday and Sunday). He emphasised the importance of checking summonses early through the MyBayar PDRM portal and application to streamline the payment process and avoid congestion at the payment counters.

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