Nissan has revealed the Nissan Hyper Tourer, the latest addition to its lineup of advanced electric vehicle (EV) concepts, set to be showcased at the Japan Mobility Show starting on October 25. The concept embodies the spirit of Japanese hospitality (omotenashi) and incorporates cutting-edge technologies, including autonomous driving and Vehicle-to-Everything (V2X) functionality, enabling electricity supply to homes and businesses during travel.
The exterior design combines smooth body panels and sharp character lines, reflecting traditional Japanese aesthetics and presenting an imposing yet harmonious appearance. The white waistline serves as both a headlight and signature lamp, and the kumiko-patterned wheels and sleek body lines add a premium touch to the concept’s class.
There were reports of four Porsche sports cars registered in Singapore bypassing the queue at the Tuas Second Link to reenter Singapore. Dashcam footage captured the grey and blue Porsches navigating through traffic, with the blue ones overtaking and forming a line for entry into Singapore.
According to Mothership, authorities might have intervened, as the Porsches were seen making a U-turn and heading back towards Malaysia. Viewers of the video commended the potential enforcement of queue discipline by authorities.
Sime Darby Auto ConneXion (SDAC), the exclusive distributor for Ford in Malaysia, has clinched two prestigious accolades in the CarPlus Editor’s Choice Award 2022-2023. The awards were bestowed upon Ford’s Next-Gen Ranger, earning the title of ‘Pick-up Truck of the Year’, and the Next-Gen Ranger Raptor, crowned as ‘Car of the Year’.
The Next-Generation Ford Ranger boasts an updated design with enhanced aerodynamics and improved interior comfort. It offers a range of powerful, efficient engines, intuitive technologies, and an extensive suite of best-in-class safety features. The Next-Gen Ranger lineup in Malaysia includes nine variants, catering to diverse consumer preferences.
As Toyota accelerates towards an electric future while maintaining its focus on hybrids and hydrogen-powered vehicles, glimpses of its next-generation zero-emissions vehicles are beginning to emerge. The Japanese automaker recently released teaser images of two upcoming all-electric concepts set to debut at the Japan Mobility Show 2023 in Tokyo, providing insights into its forthcoming compact crossovers and sporty two-door coupes.
First in line is the FT-3e, described by Toyota as an “SUV-like” concept designed to enhance customers’ daily lives with new driving experiences and personalised services powered by innovative technologies. The teaser images reveal a crossover with sharp, angular shapes and a full-width LED strip at the rear. Side-mounted displays offer information like battery state of charge (SoC), interior temperature, and air quality as the driver approaches the vehicle. Although it appears to be a four-door concept, further details are expected at the Japan Mobility Show.
Alongside the crossover, Toyota unveiled teasers for a Supra-inspired two-door electric coupe concept known as the FT-Se. Adorned with the Gazoo Racing (GR) logo, this swoopy orange EV shares major components with the FT-3e crossover. Toyota hinted at similarities in the platform, battery, and electric motors, but precise specifications are yet to be revealed.
In its upgrades for the 2024 Corolla range, Toyota has focused on incorporating new, advanced technologies to enhance the convenience and sophistication of its highly successful mid-size Hatchback, Touring Sports, and Sedan models. Notably, this includes the introduction of the new Smart Digital Key, which is compatible with both Apple and Android smartphones.
This innovative feature significantly enhances the Corolla’s appeal, complementing its adoption of fifth-generation Toyota hybrid electric technology.
Corolla owners can now enjoy the convenience of the new Smart Digital Key, allowing access and operation of the car via a smartphone, providing an alternative to a physical key fob.
The Smart Digital Key is compatible with both Apple and Android phones, enabling the storage of up to five individual profiles for each vehicle. An authorized user only needs to have their phone nearby to unlock the door and start the car, eliminating the need to access an app for entry.
This technology simplifies the sharing of access among family members and enables the authorization of third parties to use the vehicle, such as service technicians or rescue/recovery crews. The system is also beneficial for multiple driver operations, as seen in car sharing platforms.
The on-the-road price of the Corolla includes a one-year subscription for this feature, with the digital key being standard from the Mid+ grade and available as an option for Mid-grade models.
Closer to home, UMW Toyota Motor Sdn Bhd (UMWT) has officially introduced the all-new Toyota Corolla GR Sport and improved Toyota Corolla 1.8G and 1.8E into the Malaysian market. The on-the-road price without insurance for the Corolla 1.8E is RM139,800.00 and the 1.8G is RM147,800.00.
Touch ‘n Go Sdn Bhd (Touch ‘n Go) has set an ambitious target of attracting four million users to their Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) system by the close of 2024.
According to Bernama, CEO Praba Sangarajoo emphasised the remarkable growth in RFID adoption, attributing it to the seamless convenience it offers. Presently boasting about three million RFID users, the company is eyeing an additional one million by the end of the next year, aligning with its commitment to providing a smoother toll payment experience.
Sangarajoo underscored the multifaceted advantages of RFID technology, not only streamlining toll payments but also enabling contactless fuel transactions. In a recent development, Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow inaugurated Touch ‘n Go’s “Walao Eh Just In Penang” campaign, aimed at promoting cashless transactions and a seamless payment experience covering tolls, transit, and parking within Penang.
The campaign’s objective is to introduce the convenience of seamless mobility solutions to Penangites through Touch ‘n Go’s RFID and an enhanced Touch ‘n Go card.
In line with Penang’s vision of establishing a robust digital infrastructure by 2030, the campaign will see specially equipped mobile vans stationed strategically, offering special campaign deals on RFID tags to Penangites. They can also purchase exclusive Touch ‘n Go bundle sets, comprising an RFID tag and an enhanced Touch ‘n Go card.
Chief Minister Chow stressed the significance of adopting e-payment services such as Touch ‘n Go RFID, lauding its convenience, efficiency, and security. He expressed confidence in achieving Penang’s ambitious goal of being 100% cashless by 2030, with Touch ‘n Go’s collaboration.
