Negligent vehicle maintenance has been identified as a significant cause of accidents involving commercial vehicles, according to the Director General of the Road Transport Department (JPJ), Datuk Aedy Fadly Ramli.
Speaking at a press conference during the Commercial Vehicle Special Operation at Batu 5, Jalan Bangi Lama, he highlighted that many of these accidents stem from non-compliance with technical standards required for roadworthiness, which is often due to poor maintenance practices, according to Harian Metro.
MAN Truck & Bus (M) Sdn Bhd (MAN Malaysia) is showcasing its full range of products and services for the first time in Malaysia at the 2024 Malaysia Commercial Vehicle Expo (MCVE).
The highlight of the exhibition is the MAN TGS Prime Mover, which comes in two variants – 6×4 and 6×2 ADR (Accord Dangereux Routier or European regulations for Dangerous Goods specification). As Malaysia’s best-selling EURO V specification Truck, the latest MAN TGS is more robust with improved aerodynamics and a higher level of safety features.
Also on display is the MAN RR5 Bus/Coach chassis, now equipped with a EURO V-specification engine as standard. Known for its fuel efficiency, low maintenance, durability, and reliability, the MAN RR5 chassis is ideal for intercity transport providers. Enhanced with Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), it offers optimal safety for drivers, passengers, and other road users.
Making its official debut in Malaysia is the MAN TGE Van, a versatile daily transport solution. Popular in Europe, the MAN TGE is powered by a fuel-efficient and low-emission 2.0-litre turbodiesel engine. It offers customisation options as a Panel Van, Chassis Cab, Crew Cab, Combi Van, or Mini Bus.
To provide flexibility to transporters and maximize vehicle uptime, MAN Malaysia has extended its Shah Alam service centre operation hours to 18 hours from Monday to Friday, with a late shift until 2.30 am. Fleet owners can schedule maintenance and repairs at night, allowing them to be on the road during the day. Drivers can wait comfortably in the customer lounge, equipped with recliner sofas, shower facilities, and refreshments.
MAN Malaysia is also promoting its value-for-money MAN Genuine Parts Ecoline range, offering savings of up to 40% without compromising performance. At the expo, visitors can explore and purchase genuine MAN parts and lifestyle accessories at special prices.
Visit Booth PS01 at MCVE 2024 to learn more about MAN’s Trucks, Buses, and Vans, and how they can contribute to your business profitability. For additional information on MAN in Malaysia, visit www.man.com.my.
Angka-Tan Motor Sdn Bhd (ATM), the sole distributor of Foton Light Commercial Vehicles (LCV), Foton Auman, and JMC vehicles in Malaysia, is making strides to revolutionise the domestic logistics landscape with the official launch of three new trucks at the Malaysia Commercial Vehicle Expo 2024.
Leading the lineup is the 2024 Foton eAumark, the first pure-electric light-duty truck officially available in Malaysia. This electric truck embodies all the key qualities that define the Foton Aumark, with the added benefit of pure electric propulsion for cleaner and more sustainable performance. The launch of the eAumark aligns with the commitment of ATM and its parent company, Warisan TC Holdings Bhd, to fulfil Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) goals in line with Malaysia’s shift towards green mobility.
The Foton eAumark boasts impressive specifications, including a permanent magnet synchronous electric motor producing 154hp and over 900Nm of torque. Equipped with an 81.14kWh iron-phosphate battery, it offers a WLTP-rated range of up to 200km. The electric powertrain is engineered to withstand extreme weather conditions and offers 10kW of power to an ePTO port for attaching external equipment.
In addition to the eAumark, ATM introduces the 2024 Foton Aumark S Euro 4, which complies with Euro 4 emission standards mandated by the Malaysian government. Available in four- and six-wheel configurations, it features updated powertrains to meet Euro 4 and B20 biodiesel compatibility for improved operational efficiency.
Completing the lineup is the 2024 Euro 4 JMC Vigus Pro White Series 4×2, the latest variant in the JMC Vigus Pro product range. Powered by a 2.0-litre Puma four-cylinder turbodiesel engine and paired with an eight-speed ZF automatic transmission, it offers modern amenities and high utility as an urban workhorse.
The Foton eAumark is priced at an introductory RM238,000 and comes with a comprehensive warranty, while the Foton Aumark S Euro 4 starts from RM98,400 and is backed by an industry-leading six-year/300,000km warranty. The JMC Vigus Pro White Series 4×2 is priced from RM89,999 and comes with a three-year/100,000km warranty.
All three models will be on display at Booth M14 at the Malaysia Commercial Vehicle Expo 2024 until May 11, 2024. Interested parties can visit a showroom or contact the respective hotlines for more information.
As Malaysia continues its recovery from the depressed years of the pandemic, new vehicle sales are also growing. Last year’s record Total Industry Volume of 720,658 units – the highest ever since the Malaysian Automotive Association began keeping records in 1967 – already indicated the upward trend.
While the commercial vehicle segment’s share remained at 11%, the total number of vehicles sold rose (compared to 2021) by 39.9% or 22,488 units to reach 78,885 units. Within this segment, Isuzu Malaysia Sdn Bhd (IMSB) again topped the list of brands with combined retail sales of 6,546 units, including light, medium and prime mover trucks.
It was the highest ever volume in the company’s history while capturing the market-leading position again as Malaysia’s top-selling truck brand for the 9th consecutive time and also the top-selling light-duty truck for the 13th time.
Isuzu Malaysia Sdn Bhd now has a medium and heavy-duty (MHD) truck dealership in Sabah to provide a complete range of sales and aftersales services to customers. The first MHD truck dealer is Universal Motor Sdn Bhd which is located in the state’s capital city of Kota Kinabalu. With this new MHD dealership, Isuzu Malaysia now has 12 MHD dealerships nationwide.
The dealership, which occupies a land area of 3.5 acres, has a total of 20 service bays, 13 of which are for light-duty trucks, medium, heavy-duty trucks and prime movers. The remaining 7 bays are for the D-MAX pick-up truck, a popular Isuzu model with multi-role capabilities for business and personal use.
In support of the moves to reduce air pollution and improve efficiency of powerplants, MAN Truck & Bus (M) Sdn Bhd (MAN Malaysia) introduced its new truck generation with low-emission engines that meet Euro 5 standards. These standards set very low levels of sulphur content (among others) which is not only better for the engine but also the air we breathe.
Its trucks are assembled at its own plant in Serendah, Selangor, and the first batch of the New MAN Truck Generation was recently handed over to the first operators in the country. These operators are six transport companies, of which two are first-time MAN Truck customers.
At the handover event of the seven trucks, MAN Malaysia Managing Director Andrew O’Brooks thanked the customers for joining the sustainability journey with MAN. “In November 2021, MAN became the first truck manufacturer in Malaysia to offer Euro 5 engines as standard across its entire product portfolio. It was a bold move as we were challenging Malaysian transporters to join the journey and take the lead in reducing carbon emissions.”
Mr. O’Brooks said the company was delighted that the Malaysian transport companies took up the challenge, with overwhelming market response. “This clearly demonstrates that transporters in Malaysia are more than willing to do their part as the nation aims for carbon neutral status by 2050. They know that with our New MAN Truck Generation, they can attain both profitability and sustainability,” he said.
The six companies to use the new trucks are LTS Distribution (M) Sdn Bhd, Sim Aik Chan Trading Sdn Bhd, Sea Hawk Global Lines Sdn Bhd, Timur Permai Haulage Sdn Bhd, Rani Transport Sdn Bhd and Globonus Sdn Bhd.
The models available have varied specification to suit different transport requirements. There are 5 variants which can be used for three main applications: 4×2 and 6×2 for haulage/container; 6×4 for construction and heavy-duty use; and 4×2 and 6×2 with ADR (Agreement Concerning the International Carriage of Dangerous Goods by Road) specifications.
Customers can choose from 2 engine options. The 4×2 and 6×2 variants for haulage and transport of dangerous goods are powered by the proven and reliable MAN D20, 10.5-litre, 6-cylinder inline Euro 5 diesel engine. The heavy duty-oriented 6×4 variant has the bigger but equally efficient 12.4-litre D26 engine. Both engines are coupled to a smooth and quiet 12-speed MAN TipMatic intelligent gearbox with advanced software and selectable driving programmes for different applications.
Meeting the Euro 5 emission standard means significantly lower emissions of toxic nitrogen oxide (NOx) gases. This is achieved through the use of low sulphur Euro 5 diesel and AdBlue exhaust treatment. Euro 5 diesel, available in B7 and B10 grades, has been available in the Malaysian market since 2014, with BHPetrol having been the first company to offer it.
Newly developed consumption-reducing driveline and software components also ensure a new level of efficiency to deliver improved fuel economy and lower carbon dioxide emissions. The improved aerodynamics of the new vehicle design also play their part in this reduction.
According to Mr. O’Brooks, the New MAN Truck Generation was a transformational product that marked the evolution of MAN Truck & Bus from a vehicle manufacturer to provider of intelligent and sustainable transport solutions. “It is the most ambitious project by MAN Truck & Bus in 20 years. It is the answer that our customers expect us to provide in face of increasingly diverse and complex challenges confronting the transportation industry all over the world, including here in Malaysia,” he said.
For fleet operators who have many vehicles to maintain and run, manage operating costs is of great importance. They constantly need to ensure their vehicles are in good order, operational costs are minimized and goods are delivered on time. If savings can be achieved for one vehicle, they can also be replicated for other vehicles in the fleet and reduce costs, especially for fuel.
Continental Tyres has developed Conti360º solutions that can help commercial vehicle operators who face multiple challenges in managing large sized fleets. Being a tyre company, the area where they can help most is the tyres which play an important role in a vehicle’s running efficiency. With tyres specifically, proper tyre inflation will result in the optimum fuel consumption, optimum mileage and better tyre casing value for operators. Continental estimates that a vehicle which travels 100,000 kms with the tyres just 10% under-inflated could increase fuel and mileage costs alone by up to RM3,100 annually.
A survey conducted by Continental in Malaysia showed that 20% of fleet tyres are severely under-inflated while 38% were moderately under-inflated. This could lead to tyre damage, worse fuel consumption, reduced tyre life and an increased risk of tyre breakdowns while on the road. The latter would, of course, affect delivery schedules and upset customers. According to the Malaysian Institute of Road Safety Research (MIROS), one of top 5 reasons in crash occurrence in heavy commercial vehicles were tyre-related issues.
Conti360º offers 3 services and solutions for fleet operators to address these challenges and the complexity of tyre management so they can focus on their core business. The three offerings – Core Services, Advanced Services and Digital Solutions – cover a variety of services and solutions including training, on-site support, and real-time tyre monitoring to help fleet managers operate more efficiently.
With Conti360º Core Services, the Continental technical team conducts an analysis on operators’ fleet tyres to provide feedback on tyre performance, sharing industry-best tyre maintenance practices on efficient tyre handling and assisting in specialized driver training. The training modules for drivers focus on the importance of driver behaviour, good tyre usage and maintenance practices, and the significance of good pressure maintenance.
Conti360º Advanced Services provides fleets with ContiFleetCheck, a comprehensive health-check solution where the Continental technical team will perform routine inspections using advanced digital tools which relay data to proprietary systems for in-depth analysis of tyre conditions including pressure and tread depth. This active engagement provides managers with an overview of their fleet’s tyre efficiency, identifies trends and patterns of common causes of failures observed in the tyres, identifies areas for cost reductions and provides recommendations to be taken to further increase tyre life.
Finally, Conti360º Digital Solutions is an end-to-end completely automated offering with sensors that enable 24/7 monitoring of tyres on the road. Fleet managers are then kept abreast and alerted via an online portal and analytics dashboards on potential punctures, pressure loss, tread depth and so on, to help them manage tyres, prolong tyre life and increase vehicle safety on the road.
“Though tyres contribute only 5% to a fleet’s costs, they do influence around 50% of the fleet’s operational costs through fuel consumption, repairs and maintenance, and administration. Conti360º is designed specifically to minimize these costs and caters to the diverse needs of our customers depending on their fleet size and operating conditions,” said Winson Khoo Han Kee, National Sales Manager of Trucks & Tyres at Continental Tyre Malaysia.
“Customers who implemented Conti360º solutions have realised savings in the form of reduced fuel expenses by up to 3%, and increased tyre mileage by 20% while seeing significant increase in vehicle and driver safety,” he added.
According to Andrea Somorova, Managing Director of Continental Tyre Malaysia, the aim of Continental is to move beyond the transactional relationship so often associated with commercial tyres, and transcend into a technology-backed, value-added services and functional partnership with our commercial fleet customers.
“The technology within Conti360º will help our customers maximise their investments on tyres while deriving benefit from long-term after sales technical support and performance monitoring. Conti360º solutions is the next step in fleet management operations. Our investment in the development of these technologies, is our continuous commitment to our commercial and fleet customers to address real challenges so they can better meet their business goals,” she said.
Transporting new vehicles around the country has evolved greatly since the early days when they were driven by ferry-drivers to their destinations. This method had drawbacks in that the vehicle might be driven for some distance before the customer received it, so it wasn’t ‘brand new’, and there was a risk of damage along the way. In some cases, ferry drivers were known to speed too, potentially causing damage to the engine.
By the 1990s, the volume of new vehicles had grown significantly and the use of ferry-drivers was stopped except for special cases. Instead, specially built car-carriers appeared and each could carry a number of cars on it. The cars were secured properly and apart from rain and dust (and perhaps flying stones), were relatively safe from damage as they were sent from port to stockyard, or assembly plant to showrooms.
European-designed car carriers
With more than 30 years of experience in the Malaysian automotive logistics industry, Datuk Kumar Prabakaran obviously knows this history well and has seen how the needs of customer have changed over the years. He now offers a brand-new state-of-the-art vehicle carrier service, Starrtrek Carriers Sdn Bhd, using the best-in-class European-designed car carriers.
The car-carriers are the Confidential Auriga Deluxe 122 and Blizzard semi-trailers which are expected to be game-changers for Malaysia’s automotive logistics market. Thanks to the combination of high-quality craftsmanship and build quality, the Auriga Deluxe will move vehicles without being subjected to the harsh Malaysian weather, road gravel and stone chips along the way. This is because the trailer is enclosed by panels on all side
The Blizzard does not have the enclosure but is still built of high quality and can load more units per trip than the norm in Malaysia. GPS trackers and surveillance cameras are installed for safety and compliance.
Scania prime movers
Both the car-carriers, which use Scania prime movers, are equipped with advanced hydraulic systems for safe and easy vehicle loading and unloading with minimal handling. The use of lightweight high-yield steel combined with new technology and innovation enables multiple high loading capacities.
The Confidential Auriga Deluxe can accommodate a maximum of 6 passenger vehicles or up to 4 SUVs per trip, while the Blizzard can transport a maximum of 10 units of cars (depending on the dimension and kerb weight).
“With this state-of-the-art car carrier, we are setting another benchmark for higher quality and no compromise vehicle logistics service. We are proud to be a pioneer in this field and to be able to offer our customers even higher quality door-to-door services,” said Datuk Kumar Prabakaran, who is Managing Director of Starrtrek Carriers.
When it comes to commercial vehicles, Isuzu is the ‘King’ and evidence of this is shown by its consistently dominant position in the Malaysian market for many years. 2021 was no exception and once again, the brand retained two titles – for Malaysia’s top-selling truck for the 8th consecutive year, and for the best-selling light-duty truck for a 12th straight year.
These accomplishments were delivered through the total combined sales of 4,808 units of trucks in all segments and 4,545 units of light-duty trucks that were recorded in 2021.
“We are extremely thrilled to be able to achieve and retain the top spot again for overall truck and light-duty truck categories which our Isuzu brand has been privileged enough to enjoy for so many consecutive years in this market,” said Koji Nakamura, CEO of Isuzu Malaysia Sdn Bhd.
“These achievements demonstrate the continuation of our robust footprint and growth in Malaysia, as well as our ability in positioning ourselves to harness the opportunities whilst tackling the challenges amidst a pandemic-laden market situation. It is also particularly significant given how this situation had caused supply chain disruptions such as scarcity of raw materials which has impacted production in the trucking industry,” he said.
Extensive dealer network
Mr. Nakamura added that another key factor which had significantly contributed to the brand’s continuous market leadership is its extensive dealer network across the country. Regular communications between the head office and dealer partners has, over the years, fostered a strong relationship which enabled Isuzu Malaysia to capture on-ground market intelligence and deliver what customers need.
Dealers in close contact with customers
“Our dealers have a closely established rapport with our customers and were able to constantly gather feedback about the customers’ business situation and trucking solutions requirements. With these crucial ‘on-ground’ market information, our sales and aftersales teams could identify where the gaps are and work towards maintaining the strength of their respective operations for the benefit of our customers,” explained Atsunori Murata, Chief Operating Officer of Isuzu Malaysia Sdn Bhd.
Mr. Murata said that, prior to the pandemic, Isuzu Malaysia’s management team used to make regular face-to-face visits to its dealerships, business partners like body builders and transporters, and customers. However, due to the ‘New Normal’, this had to be immediately re-strategized by optimizing digital communications platforms for its marketing efforts such as creating videos on You Tube and Facebook, disseminating SMSes and holding meetings using Microsoft and Google conferencing tools. All these were done to ensure continuity of relationship-building and promotion of new products and services for easy understanding of Isuzu’s offerings.
In the last 2 years, Isuzu Malaysia had rolled out several strategic initiatives such as partnering with new dealers and opening of new centres; introduction of new product innovation which is the ELF range with Isuzu Safety Plus for greater safety and efficiency; plus on-time truck delivery to customers.
The company said all these had helped in further meeting the trucking solutions needs of customers and enhancing their satisfaction through market reach and quality service, which are pivotal in maintaining its robust truck sales and market-leading position.
Greater efficiency and safety
“We are grateful that our Isuzu brand continues to enjoy high demand as more customers experience the performance and comfort of our trucks. Since we introduced the new ELF range with Isuzu Safety Plus 2 years ago featuring a combination of safety system upgrades and B20 biodiesel compatibility, our customers have experienced greater efficiency and safety,” Mr. Murata revealed.
Mr. D.I.Y., a well known retail group, has been using Isuzu trucks since 2017 and last year enlarged its fleet with additional units. It now has 100 units of Isuzu vehicles which are used to deliver stocks to its hundreds of stores nationwide.
“Overall, Isuzu Malaysia is very honoured to share our success with everyone in our dealer network and employees because without their strong passion, dedication and outstanding work for the brand, achieving a market-leading position year-on-year would be a tough feat. Equally, we are also extremely appreciative to all our customers and we will continue to remain focused on providing more excellence and value through outstanding products and services to support their varied trucking needs,” said Mr. Murata.
For more details on Isuzu’s range of vehicles and to locate an authorised dealership in Peninsular or East Malaysia, call 1-300-88-1133 or visit www.isuzu.net.my.
MAN Truck & Bus (M) Sdn. Bhd. is doing its part to help keep prevent climate change by providing cleaner engines with its New MAN Truck Generation. MAN Malaysia is the first heavy-duty truck manufacturer in the country to upgrade its powerplants across the range.
The new engines meet the Euro V emission standard which means significantly lower emissions of toxic nitrogen oxide (NOx) gases. This is achieved through the use of low sulphur Euro V diesel and AdBlue exhaust treatment. Euro V diesel, available in B7 and B10 grades, has been available in the Malaysian market since 2014, with BHPetrol having been the first company to offer it.
Newly developed consumption-reducing driveline and software components also ensure a new level of efficiency to deliver improved fuel economy and lower carbon dioxide emissions. The improved aerodynamics of the new vehicle design also play their part in this reduction.
Completely new range
The new MAN Truck Generation is a completely new range of heavy-duty trucks for the Malaysian market that is oriented towards the changing requirements of the transport industry. It is said to set new standards in key areas such as driver orientation, assistance systems, digital connectivity and reducing the environmental impact.
The new range consists of 5 variants of the TGS model which can be used for three main applications: 4×2 and 6×2 for haulage/container; 6×4 for construction and heavy-duty use; and 4×2 and 6×2 with ADR (Agreement Concerning the International Carriage of Dangerous Goods by Road) specifications. Prices for the vehicles start from RM340,000 for the standard specifications, excluding sales and service tax.
Customers can choose from 2 engine options. The 4×2 and 6×2 variants for haulage and transport of dangerous goods are powered by the proven and reliable MAN D20, 10.5-litre, 6-cylinder inline Euro V diesel engine. The heavy duty-oriented 6×4 variant has the bigger but equally efficient 12.4-litre D26 engine. Both engines are coupled to a smooth and quiet 12-speed MAN TipMatic intelligent gearbox with advanced software and selectable driving programmes for different applications.
Excellent driver fit and ergonomics
Developed with extensive input from drivers, the New MAN Truck Generation sets new standards in terms of user-friendliness, optimum ergonomics, more intuitive operation, reliable networking with digital devices and applications, optimum space and comfort. After all, the driver is the person who spends much of his life in the vehicle, so making it as comfortable and safe as possible is of great importance.
The redesigned smart-looking multi-function steering wheel is smaller than that of the previous generation of MAN Trucks. Equipped with airbag as standard for Malaysia, the new steering wheel can now be adjusted from 20° to an almost passenger car-like 55°, offering an ideal steering position for drivers of all shapes and sizes. Also new is the ability to adjust the steering wheel forward to 0° park position. This creates maximum space for easy getting in and out of the cab and for rest periods.
The cockpit is split into two levels. The bottom level instrument panel is now even more angled towards the driver for optimum reachability while the displays on the top level are placed further away for optimum visibility. This makes it easy for even the most seasoned drivers to switch to and from reading information on the display to the traffic on the road ahead.
Safety is just as vital to a truck driver as it is to a passenger car driver and the new MAN TGS is equipped with a host of innovative safety and driver assistance systems to ensure the driver and vehicle complete every journey safely. Like many of the latest passenger cars and SUVs, there are active safety systems such as Lane Departure Warning, Adaptive Cruise Control, Electronic Stability Program, and Advanced Emergency Brake Assist.
Optimised uptime
The hallmark of a ‘good’ truck is its reliability and independent TUV reports, confirm that the New MAN Truck Generation offers a new level of reliability and product quality. Newly developed, simplified, powerful and future-proof electronics architecture will significantly improve and expand its functionalities well into its service life.
Additionally, MAN Telematics, a comprehensively developed, cloud-based, factory-fitted digitalised maintenance and fleet management system, reduces operating inefficiencies and costs whilst delivering maximum up-time of the new MAN TGS. The good news is that MAN Malaysia is offering a free 2-year subscription with every purchase of the new trucks.
A transformational product
According to MAN Malaysia Managing Director, Andrew O’Brooks, the New MAN Truck Generation was a transformational product that marked the evolution of MAN Truck & Bus from a vehicle manufacturer to provider of intelligent and sustainable transport solutions.
“The New MAN Truck Generation is the most ambitious project by MAN Truck & Bus in 20 years. It is the answer that our customers expect us to provide in face of increasingly diverse and complex challenges confronting the transportation industry all over the world, including here in Malaysia,” he said.
“The New MAN Truck Generation, which was crowned the International Truck of the Year 2021, winner of two awards at iF Design Award 2021 and just named “Sustainable” Truck of the Year 2022; offers everything that customers and drivers expect and more. It combines the attributes that are synonymous with MAN Trucks — toughness, durability and reliability – with future-oriented innovations aimed at simplifying the lives of both business owners and the people behind the wheel,” he added.
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