The Jakarta-Bandung Fast Train, Whoosh, achieved a record-breaking milestone, transporting 21,312 passengers through 36 schedules, consisting of 28 regular trips and eight additional trips.
This figure marked the highest passenger count since Whoosh’s operation commenced in October 2023. The previous record was set on November 11, with 20,000 passengers, and November 4, with 18,000 passengers.
According to Antara, compared to the previous week, the number of passengers increased by 18 per cent, or 3,259, and the number of trips increased by 12 per cent, from 32 trips on November 4 to 36 trips on November 11.
Eva Chairunisa, Kereta Cepat Indonesia China (KCIC) General Manager Corporate Secretary, highlighted that the surge in passenger numbers was in tandem with the increased number of weekend trips. The Whoosh fast train has become the preferred choice for the public travelling between Bandung and Jakarta, she added.
In a much-anticipated move, Tesla is gearing up to deliver its futuristic Cybertruck on November 30th. However, the electric vehicle pioneer has strategically embedded protective measures in its purchase agreement to thwart customers looking to flip their Cybertrucks for a quick profit.
Nestled within the intricacies of Tesla’s purchase contract is a novel clause exclusively tailored for the Cybertruck. It explicitly prohibits buyers from parting ways with their prized electric trucks within the first year of purchase. Tesla may, at its discretion, make exceptions on a case-by-case basis, allowing for a buyback option that factors in a modest 25 cents depreciation per mile.
Volvo has introduced the EM90, a fully electric premium MPV designed to redefine the concept of a car by offering a space for living on the move. Emphasising the MPV as a haven for connection, relaxation, and quality time, the EM90 combines iconic Scandinavian design, a rich safety heritage, comfort, and cutting-edge technology.
Exterior Design
The EM90 aims to set a new standard of style in the MPV segment. The exterior boasts the instantly recognisable Thor’s Hammer headlights, offering a confident and proud face. The front design features an illuminated logo inspired by modern architecture, adding a high-tech and precision-crafted element. The rear exhibits a lit-up wordmark and stylish tail lights, with Volvo’s iconic vertical lamps evolving to capture the modern city skyline.
Interior: Your Living Room on the Move
Inside, the EM90 transforms into a living room on wheels, providing ultimate comfort and a premium experience. The MPV’s Scandinavian design details enhance the interior, offering an optimal environment for occupants to make the most of their time on the road.
Key Features:
Range and Charging: It boasts a competitive range of up to 738km under the CLTC testing cycle, supported by a 116kWh battery. Bi-directional charging capability allows the car to act as a power bank for other electric cars and appliances.
Performance: With a 268hp power output e-motor, the EM90 accelerates from 0 to 100km/h in 8.3 seconds.
Safety: Built on Volvo’s safety DNA, the EM90 features advanced driver assistance systems, high-definition cameras, radar, and ultrasonic radars. The vehicle incorporates safe space technology to protect occupants and those around the car.
Comfort: Top-notch sound isolation, road noise cancellation technology, dual-chamber air suspension, and silent tires contribute to a smooth ride. A Bowers & Wilkins sound system with 21 speakers creates a private concert hall experience.
Digital Experience: Equipped with Snapdragon Cockpit Platforms from Qualcomm Technologies, the EM90 offers an outstanding digital experience. Over-the-air software updates, a voice assistant, and multiple screens, including a roof-mounted 15.6-inch screen, enhance connectivity and entertainment.
Versatility: The interior features multi-functional screens and smart surfaces that enable various in-cabin scenarios. With voice commands or a simple switch, occupants can transform the interior into a theater, meeting room, or bedroom for the rear seats.
Volvo’s EM90 redefines the concept of a car by offering a space for living on the move.
Apple has commenced extensive ground surveys using vehicles worldwide to collect data aimed at improving Apple Maps and supporting the Look Around feature. These surveys are part of Apple’s ongoing commitment to delivering high-quality, up-to-date maps to users. The company plans periodic revisits and data re-collection in specific locations to ensure map accuracy and relevance.
Survey Methods and Privacy Protections:
Vehicle-based Surveys: Apple employs vehicles equipped with advanced mapping technologies to conduct surveys across diverse global locations. These surveys contribute to the enhancement of Apple Maps and the immersive Look Around feature.
Pedestrian-focused Surveys: In select pedestrian areas, such as specific streets in Kuala Lumpur inaccessible to vehicles, Apple conducts surveys using portable systems. These include backpack systems for direct data collection for Look Around and devices like iPads and iPhones for broader map improvement purposes.
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.
