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E-hailing Surge Leaves 30,000 Taxis Abandoned

Approximately 30,000 taxis across the country have reportedly been left abandoned as drivers claim to have been forced out of business due to the rise of e-hailing services, as reported by local daily Utusan Malaysia. The publication suggests that the number of taxis in operation has decreased from around 120,000 to just 40,000 since the advent of e-hailing.

While the source of the statistics was not cited, Gabungan Teksi Malaysia (GTSM), a taxi drivers’ group, was quoted by Utusan Malaysia, attributing the decline to the significant difference in fares between traditional taxis and e-hailing services. Kamarudin Hussain, the chairman of GTSM, pointed out that consumers are drawn to the lower fares offered by e-hailing services, placing blame on the government for not regulating e-hailing rates.

Kamarudin expressed concern that the lack of control over e-hailing rates has led to a price war among e-hailing companies, resulting in compromised fares. He argued that when rates become extremely affordable, passengers naturally prefer e-hailing services over taxis.

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TNGD Implements One Per Cent Fee for Credit Card Top-ups on TNG eWallet

Starting from February 23, TNG Digital Sdn Bhd (TNGD) will implement a one per cent fee on all Touch ‘n Go eWallet (TNG eWallet) top-ups made using credit cards. Transactions via debit cards and DuitNow will continue to remain free of charge.

The decision, according to TNGD’s Chief Executive Officer, Alan Ni, is aimed at addressing excessive withdrawals from credit cards to bank accounts and reducing the significant costs associated with credit card transactions borne by TNGD.

Ni emphasised that TNG eWallet users have the option to choose DuitNow for top-ups, which involves fund transfers between banks, providing a balance between convenience, security, and the long-term cost sustainability of the company. He encouraged users to utilise DuitNow or debit cards for top-ups, as both options are free of charge.

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Sergeant Faces Investigation for Cash Possession of RM3,753 During Roadblock

A police officer holding the rank of sergeant is currently under investigation for the possession of RM3,753 in cash during a roadblock (SJR) near a location in Selangor on Sunday.

The examination was conducted by the Integrity and Standard Compliance Department (JIPS) of Bukit Aman at the site of the mentioned roadblock, as confirmed by Selangor Police Chief Datuk Hussein Omar Khan.

The examination took place in the early hours around 2:30 am, targeting several traffic personnel engaged in Operation Alcohol. During the investigation, one of the traffic officers was discovered with a sum of RM3,313 in cash, and further inspection of a vehicle revealed an additional RM440 in cash.

In response to the incident, Datuk Hussein Omar Khan stated that a disciplinary investigation has been initiated. The objective is to identify any potential elements of corruption or violations of prescribed procedures.

He further declared that all personnel involved in this investigation would be suspended from the enforcement unit until the investigation is concluded.

H.R. Owen Welcomes Lotus to its Prestigious Portfolio

Leading luxury automotive dealer group, H.R. Owen, is set to enhance its portfolio by adding Lotus to its lineup of prestigious car brands, becoming the latest retailer for the brand in the UK.

Situated in Hatfield, the new Lotus showroom will showcase an array of Lotus models, including the cutting-edge Lotus Emeya, an electric four-door hyper-GT, and the Eletre, an all-electric hyper-SUV. Additionally, the showroom will feature the Emira, Lotus’ final mainstream petrol-powered sports car.

Ken Choo, CEO of H.R. Owen, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, aligning with the vision of Berjaya Group founder Vincent Tan to associate with brands that redefine luxury and performance. Choo highlighted Lotus’ commitment to innovation, particularly with the introduction of electrifying models like Emeya, which resonates with H.R. Owen’s vision.

Mike Johnstone, chief commercial officer at Lotus, emphasised the strategic importance of the partnership with H.R. Owen, citing the dealer group’s global reputation and its discerning customer base. The Hatfield location was specifically chosen for its convenient accessibility north of London, aiming to significantly enhance brand visibility in the south-east of England.

H.R. Owen’s reputation for excellence is underscored by the recognition of its Rolls-Royce Motor Cars London and Lamborghini Manchester dealerships, both named the best in the world by their respective manufacturers last year. This accolade further solidifies H.R. Owen’s commitment to delivering unparalleled luxury and service in the automotive retail sector.

Honda’s Le Mans Return Gains Momentum for 2025

The potential return of Honda to Le Mans is gaining momentum at an impressive pace. In just a year, both IMSA (International Motor Sports Association) and WEC (World Endurance Championship) have streamlined their rulebooks, enabling auto manufacturers to participate in both GTP (Grand Touring Prototypes) and Hypercar classes. This development saw major players like Cadillac and Porsche competing globally in 2023, a trend followed by BMW and Lamborghini this year. The recent consolidation of Honda and Acura racing activities further positions the brands for international competition, although a Le Mans run in 2024 has been ruled out.

Looking ahead to 2025, HRC (Honda Racing Corporation) US president David Salters expressed cautious optimism, emphasising the necessity for favourable conditions. Speaking at this year’s Rolex 24, Salters credited the team at HRC and Oreca for creating a formidable IMSA car, stating Honda’s interest in Le Mans while closely monitoring the competition.

The amalgamation of HPD (Honda Performance Development) and HRC in January 2024 marked a significant shift in Honda’s racing strategy, moving from a North America-centric approach to a global one. Salters acknowledged the allure of Le Mans and WEC, commending IMSA, ACO, and WEC for their efforts in the inaugural year of the rule changes. However, he stressed the importance of continued development and ensuring that Honda’s participation aligns with business objectives.

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Lancia’s Electrifying Revival: The 2024 Ypsilon Previewed

The long-awaited revival of the overlooked Lancia brand has officially commenced with the debut of the automaker’s inaugural electric vehicle, the 2024 Lancia Ypsilon. The grand unveiling, set for February 14 in Milan, provides a sneak peek into the EV-exclusive Limited Edition Cassina trim, where Lancia plans to produce 1,906 uniquely numbered units, paying homage to the brand’s founding year.

While this marks the first comprehensive glimpse of the Ypsilon, its appearance is not entirely unfamiliar, having been previously leaked. Serving as the pioneer model for Lancia’s fresh design language, the Ypsilon features an illuminated calice grille and iconic round taillights reminiscent of the Lancia Stratos.

The exterior showcases polygonal headlights positioned lower on the front bumper and glossy black accents. Despite these new elements, the Ypsilon shares some similarities with its counterparts, the Peugeot 208 and the Opel Corsa, retaining familiar proportions and greenhouse design.

Inside, the emphasis on high-quality materials and distinctive design elements aims to evoke the ambience of an Italian living room. Collaborating with Cassina, a premium Italian furniture brand, Lancia introduces velvet-upholstered seats with a nostalgic “cannelloni” motif and a circular centre console resembling a coffee table.

The Ypsilon debuts Lancia’s SALA (Sound Air Light Augmentation) infotainment system with a dual-screen layout and an illuminated orb, likely serving as an AI-enhanced virtual assistant.

Technical specifications remain undisclosed, with the focus on exterior and interior design. The only confirmed figure is the WLTP range of 403km on a single charge, suggesting the use of a 54kWh battery pack shared with similar-sized Stellantis EVs.

Sharing its platform with several Stellantis models, the Ypsilon will later be joined by a hybrid version featuring a mild-hybrid turbocharged 1.2-litre three-cylinder engine.

Post the February 14 debut, the Lancia Ypsilon Limited Edition Cassina will tour Italian showrooms and be available for immediate orders and will expand its reach across multiple European markets.