Piston.my

EV

smart #1 Secures Third Position in Malaysia’s Growing EV Market

smart #1, the flagship EV model from PRO-NET, has made a significant impact in the Malaysian EV market, securing its position as the third-ranked EV SUV priced above RM180k. This achievement highlights smart’s popularity and success in the premium EV segment, a testament to its innovation and customer-centric approach.

The exponential growth of the Malaysian EV market underscores the increasing demand for sustainable mobility solutions. In this landscape, smart has emerged as a frontrunner, capturing the trust and preference of Malaysian consumers.

The success of smart #1 can be attributed to its exceptional performance, evident in its record-breaking sales figures and consistent ranking among top contenders in the premium EV SUV segment. Features like the Brabus model have further enhanced its appeal, showcasing exceptional performance and quality.

Several factors contribute to smart’s achievements, including its premium brand DNA inherited from Mercedes-Benz, unique selling propositions such as comprehensive charging solutions, and advanced driver assistance features. smart Malaysia’s dedication to delivering an unparalleled customer experience, exemplified by initiatives like the Hello smart app and seamless service offerings, reinforces smart #1’s success in the market.

Furthermore, smart Malaysia’s collaboration with stakeholders and expansion of its dealer network demonstrate its commitment to meeting the evolving needs of Malaysian consumers and driving EV adoption nationwide. The establishment of community-centric hubs further underscores smart’s efforts to make EV ownership convenient and accessible across the country.

BYD dalam Pasaran EV Global: Peningkatan RM17.2 Bilion

Kajian terbaru dari Institut Kiel untuk Ekonomi Dunia Jerman menunjukkan bahawa pembuat kenderaan elektrik (EV) terkemuka China, BYD Co., mendapat sebahagian besar subsidi langsung kerajaan, berjumlah sekurang-kurangnya €3.4 bilion (RM17.2 bilion). China memberi BYD rangsangan ini untuk membantunya menjadi peneraju dalam EV dan teknologi bersih.

Kajian itu menunjukkan bahawa subsidi BYD meningkat daripada €220 juta pada 2020 kepada €2.1 bilion hanya dua tahun kemudian. Selain subsidi langsung, BYD juga mendapat manfaat daripada bantuan untuk pembuat bateri tempatan dan insentif untuk orang yang membeli keretanya. Wang ini telah membantu syarikat China seperti BYD berkembang pesat, terutamanya di China, dan kini mereka berkembang ke Eropah juga.

(more…)

GWM Malaysia Unveils Strategic Pricing and Exclusive Offers for the Ora Good Cat

GWM Malaysia has introduced a new strategic pricing approach for the GWM Ora Good Cat electric hatchback, setting a starting price of RM113,800 for the 2024 models. Dubbed the “New A-meow-zing Price,” this initiative aims to make the Ora Good Cat one of the best-value electric vehicles (EVs) within the RM120,000 price range. Mike Cui An Qi, Managing Director of GWM Malaysia, expressed confidence in the Ora Good Cat’s affordability, elegance, cutting-edge technology, and superior performance with this strategic pricing.

The Ora Good Cat now offers seven colour options, with variants starting from RM113,800 for the 400 Pro and RM143,800 for the 500 Ultra. Buyers will benefit from a comprehensive warranty package covering a 5-year/150,000 KM full-vehicle warranty, an 8-year/180,000km power battery warranty, and an 8-year/180,000km electric motor and electric motor control unit warranty.

In addition to the new pricing structure, GWM Malaysia is showing appreciation to existing Ora Good Cat owners by offering exclusive benefits. Current owners will receive an additional 2 years of vehicle warranty up to 150,000km, along with an extra 5 years or 75,000km of free maintenance (parts and labour included) based on the last completed service interval. This gesture underscores GWM Malaysia’s commitment to customer satisfaction and loyalty.

Furthermore, in line with the festive season, GWM Malaysia is offering a special Raya deal. Customers purchasing any new GWM Ora Good Cat will receive a complimentary Home Wall Box Charger and 3 Pin Portable Charger. This promotion is valid for new registrations until April 30, enhancing the appeal of the Ora Good Cat as a practical and desirable electric vehicle option for consumers in Malaysia.

Volkswagen ID.Buzz GTX: An Electric Van For Families That Are In A Hurry

Expanding its successful high-performance EV lineup, Volkswagen unveils the ID.Buzz GTX, a sporty electric van designed for families who are in a hurry. Following the footsteps of the ID.4 and ID.5 GTX models, as well as the recent ID.3 GTX and ID.7 GTX Tourer, this latest addition from VW’s Commercial Vehicles division promises a more potent iteration of the iconic Microbus for European markets.

The ID.Buzz GTX comes standard with all-wheel drive, powered by two electric motors. Customers can opt for either a standard-wheelbase version with a 79.0-kilowatt-hour battery or a longer-wheelbase model featuring a higher 86.0-kilowatt-hour usable energy content.

With dual motors, the ID.Buzz GTX delivers a combined output of 335hp, enabling a swift sprint to 100km/h in just 6.5 seconds for both versions. The van boasts an electronically limited top speed of 160km/h.

For towing capabilities, the standard ID.Buzz GTX can tow up to 1,799kg, while the longer-wheelbase model with the larger battery is slightly less at 1,599kg. Although specific combined torque figures are not provided, Volkswagen mentions that the rear-mounted motor delivers 560Nm, while the front motor provides 134Nm.

Charging power varies depending on the battery size, with the smaller pack supporting 185 kilowatts and the upgraded pack capable of accepting 200 kilowatts. Charging times are efficient, with the base battery requiring approximately 25 minutes to charge from 10 to 80 per cent, while the larger one needs less than 30 minutes.

The ID.Buzz GTX receives various styling enhancements, including redesigned bumpers, a honeycomb grille, and striking Cherry Red paint. It also features standard 19-inch wheels, with two optional sets of 21-inch alloys available. Unique boomerang-shaped lower lights, dark accents, a black headliner, and sporty seats further distinguish the ID.Buzz GTX.

Inside, the van boasts a slightly larger touchscreen which is 12.9 inches, a new optional head-up display, and illuminated touch sliders for the AC and volume controls. The long-wheelbase model offers an optional panoramic sunroof that transitions from opaque to transparent at the touch of a button.

Set to go on sale in Europe this June, the Volkswagen ID.Buzz GTX promises a blend of performance, versatility, and modern design tailored to today’s discerning families.

The New Peugeot 5008 – EV, Hybrid and Petrol Variants, 21-Inch Display!

The Peugeot 5008, the latest entrant into Europe’s thriving SUV segment, epitomises versatility and innovation, catering to a diverse range of consumer preferences. Offering an array of powertrain options, including fully electric, plug-in hybrid, and mild-hybrid variants, this third-generation model from the esteemed French marque, part of Stellantis, is primed to meet the evolving needs of modern families.

Enlarged from its predecessor and built on the STLA Medium platform, the new Peugeot 5008 boasts impressive dimensions, standing at 4787.9mm in length, 1889.76mm in width, and 1689.1mm in height, with a generous wheelbase of 2898.14mm. Setting itself apart from competitors like the Tesla Model Y, it distinguishes itself by offering a third row of seats, making it an ideal choice for larger families.

Despite the accommodation of seven passengers potentially limiting cargo space, the Peugeot 5008 manages to offer a commendable 257 litres with all seats in use, expanding to 747 litres in the five-seat configuration and a substantial 1812 litres with the second row folded, ensuring ample storage capacity for various needs.

Retaining its boxy shape to optimise interior roominess, the Peugeot 5008 draws design inspiration from its smaller sibling, the E-3008, showcasing a prominent 21-inch display atop the dashboard and 10 customisable touch controls for seamless access to essential functions, blending convenience with sophistication.

Under the hood, the entry-level variant boasts a turbocharged 1.2-litre petrol engine with 48V technology, delivering 136hp to the front wheels via a six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. For those craving more power, the plug-in hybrid option combines a 150hp combustion engine with a 123hp electric motor, resulting in a total output of 195hp and an impressive electric range exceeding 80km.

For environmentally-conscious drivers, the fully electric E-5008 offers multiple configurations, with single-motor, front-wheel-drive models delivering 210 or 228hp, accompanied by instant torque of 344Nm. Opting for the dual-motor, all-wheel-drive variant elevates the combined output to 318hp, ensuring exhilarating performance without compromising on sustainability.

Equipped with either a 73.0-kilowatt-hour or 98.0-kWh battery, the Peugeot 5008 guarantees ample range, spanning from 500 to 659km, depending on the chosen configuration. Moreover, the batteries come with an eight-year or 160,934km warranty, with charging options ranging from the standard 11-kW charger to optional upgrades for a 22-kilowatt charger, with DC charging capabilities supporting up to 160kW for rapid replenishment.

With its harmonious blend of versatility, performance, and eco-friendliness, the Peugeot 5008 emerges as a formidable contender in Europe’s fiercely competitive SUV market, offering families a compelling choice for their transportation needs in an era increasingly dominated by electrified automotive solutions.

Whispers of an Electrified Mazda 6: The Mazda 6e

Recent European developments have sparked rumours about an electrified form of the Mazda 6, the Mazda 6e. While production of the Mazda6 is winding down in Japan, a new trademark application for the Mazda 6e in Europe suggests that Mazda may be planning to revive the model with an electrified powertrain.

Mazda’s use of the “e” moniker alongside a model code is unprecedented, indicating a potential shift in the company’s naming strategy as it expands its range of electric vehicles (EVs), hybrids, and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs). Notably, the trademark filing for the Mazda 6e features a space between the brand and the model name, distinguishing it from Mazda’s existing non-SUV lineup.

(more…)

Audi’s Electric Vision: The 2025 Q6 E-Tron Unleashed

The new Audi Q6 E-Tron has been unveiled, showcasing Audi’s Premium Platform Electric architecture, shared with the Porsche Macan EV and featuring Audi badging for the first time. This architecture operates on an 800-volt system and incorporates two electric motors biased towards the rear in both power and vehicle weight distribution.

At launch, the Q6 E-Tron will be available in two trims—Q6 and the performance-focused SQ6—both equipped with a 100-kWh (94.9-kWh net) battery pack. Sportback trims will be introduced later, along with a rear-wheel-drive version aimed at extending the range.

In North America, buyers can expect a combined 422hp from the Q6 E-Tron, marking a modest 40hp increase compared to the European model. The sportier SQ6 boasts 483hp, with both trims offering enhanced acceleration through launch control. Audi claims the Q6 can accelerate from 0 to 100km/h in approximately 5.0 seconds with launch control, while the SQ6 achieves this in just 4.2 seconds.

 

Audi estimates a range of 482km for the standard Q6 E-Tron, with SQ6 range estimates pending. Both trims utilise the same battery, with the SQ6 likely to offer slightly less range. Of notable mention is the Q6 E-Tron’s 800-volt charging capability, allowing it to charge from 10 to 80 per cent in just 21 minutes using a DC fast charger, capable of pulling 270 kW.

The PPE architecture of the Audi Q6 E-Tron is engineered to optimise electric packaging while delivering robust driving dynamics. Features include control arms positioned in front of suspension arms for improved battery positioning and a fixed steering rack to enhance control. Additionally, Audi equips the Q6 with wider tires at the rear for optimised performance.

Beyond performance, the advanced technology integrated into the Q6 E-Tron is a standout feature. The SUV boasts the E3 (End-to-End Electronic) architecture, powered by AI to manage various Android-based systems and provide proactive suggestions based on learned behaviors. The SUV also features digital screens including an 11.9-inch driver display, a 10.9-inch passenger screen, and an optional augmented-reality heads-up display.

Pricing details for the 2025 Audi Q6 and SQ6 E-Tron models are to be announced closer to the on-sale date.

Xpeng’s Strategy to Capture the Mass EV Market

XPeng autonomous drive record in China 2021

Xpeng, a prominent Chinese electric vehicle (EV) maker, has unveiled plans to enter the highly competitive EV market segment with a new, more affordable brand. During an industry event in Beijing, Xpeng’s Chairman and CEO, He Xiaopeng, announced that the new brand’s models will be priced between 100,000 yuan and 150,000 yuan (RM65,536-RM98,304). This pricing strategy aims to target a wider consumer base by offering EVs at a lower price point compared to premium EV makers, whose vehicles typically fall in the 200,000-300,000 yuan (RM131,072 – RM196,608) range.

The decision to introduce a cheaper brand comes amid heightened competition in China’s EV market, with companies like BYD leading efforts to reduce prices. Xpeng’s move reflects the industry’s trend toward affordability and accessibility, as companies seek to attract more customers by offering more competitively priced EVs.

XPeng autonomous drive record in China 2021

(more…)

BMW Malaysia Unveils the Enhanced BMW i5 eDrive40 M Sport – 340hp, 582km Electric Range

BMW Malaysia has introduced the updated version of the BMW i5 eDrive40 M Sport, setting a new benchmark in the realm of electric mobility. This visionary sedan, an integral part of the esteemed BMW 5 Series lineup, seamlessly blends enhanced charging capabilities and streamlined functionality with the dynamic performance and elegance synonymous with the brand.

The BMW i5 eDrive40 M Sport now comes equipped with AC Charging Professional as standard, boasting 22 kW charging capabilities. This advancement translates to significantly reduced charging times, allowing for a 0-100% charge in under 4 hours and 15 minutes. Additionally, high-power DC charging of up to 205 kW enables a swift charge from 0% to 80% in just 34 minutes.

In collaboration with leading local EV charging providers, BMW Malaysia ensures access to over 1,700 charging stations nationwide for BMW i5 owners. Partnerships with ChargeEV, Yinson GreenTech, JomCharge, Gentari, and others ensure seamless access to charging facilities, supporting the evolving landscape of Electric Mobility in Malaysia.

(more…)

Toyota’s Strategy in the Evolving Electric Vehicle Market

Toyota’s CEO, Ted Ogawa, has expressed a conservative outlook regarding the penetration of electric vehicles (EVs) in the US market by 2030. Despite targets set by the EPA, Toyota aims to leverage its position as a hybrid advocate rather than heavily investing in battery electric vehicles (BEVs).

Ogawa emphasised Toyota’s commitment to aligning with customer demand, which currently leans towards various forms of electrification, predominantly hybrids with internal combustion engines. Toyota’s strategy revolves around meeting this demand while maintaining its hybrid-centric approach.

Toyota’s investment in a $13.9 million battery complex in North Carolina underscores its commitment to hybrid and EV production in North America. The company has poured approximately $17 billion into its US manufacturing operations since 2021, with a particular focus on hybrid production.

While the EPA’s 2030 regulations push for over half of new cars to be BEVs, Toyota’s plan targets only 30%. Ogawa acknowledges the regulatory gap and hints at potential credit purchases to meet compliance while prioritizing customer demand over regulatory pressures.

Despite being a top-selling automaker, Toyota’s EV sales lag behind competitors like Tesla. Ogawa admits the company’s technological gap in battery technology but asserts active efforts to catch up, emphasising not only product development but also creating a supportive ecosystem for BEVs, including charging infrastructure and energy management solutions.

Toyota’s strategy in the evolving EV market reflects a cautious yet adaptive approach, prioritising customer demand and leveraging its expertise in hybrid technology. While the company faces challenges in meeting regulatory targets and competing with established EV manufacturers, its investments and commitment to innovation signal a proactive stance in navigating the transition towards electrification.

smart #1 Secures Third Position in Malaysia’s Growing EV Market

  • 16/04/2024
  • English, Local News
  • Timothy Prakash

BYD dalam Pasaran EV Global: Peningkatan RM17.2 Bilion

  • 15/04/2024
  • BM, Luar Negara
  • Timothy Prakash

GWM Malaysia Unveils Strategic Pricing and Exclusive Offers for the Ora Good Cat

  • 24/03/2024
  • English, Local News
  • Timothy Prakash

Volkswagen ID.Buzz GTX: An Electric Van For Families That Are In A Hurry

  • 22/03/2024
  • English, Global News
  • Timothy Prakash

The New Peugeot 5008 – EV, Hybrid and Petrol Variants, 21-Inch Display!

  • 21/03/2024
  • English, Global News
  • Timothy Prakash

Whispers of an Electrified Mazda 6: The Mazda 6e

  • 20/03/2024
  • English, Global News
  • Timothy Prakash

Audi’s Electric Vision: The 2025 Q6 E-Tron Unleashed

  • 19/03/2024
  • English, Global News
  • Timothy Prakash
XPeng autonomous drive record in China 2021

Xpeng’s Strategy to Capture the Mass EV Market

  • 18/03/2024
  • English, Global News
  • Timothy Prakash

BMW Malaysia Unveils the Enhanced BMW i5 eDrive40 M Sport – 340hp, 582km Electric Range

  • 13/03/2024
  • English, Local News
  • Timothy Prakash

Toyota’s Strategy in the Evolving Electric Vehicle Market

  • 13/03/2024
  • English, Global News
  • Timothy Prakash
@thepistonshow

Archive

Introducing the Mercedes-AMG GT63 S E Performance: A Hybrid Powerhouse

The MG EXE181 Electric Hypercar does 0-100km/h in 1.9 Seconds!

Red Bull RB17: Track-Only Hypercar with F1 Performance

Lamborghini Unveils Bold Carbon Neutrality Roadmap by 2030

PM Open to Renegotiating Toll Concessions for Kuala Lumpur Highways

Follow us on Facebook

Follow us on YouTube

The Piston Show

The Piston Show
The Proton S70 has been making waves in the market ever since it was launched towards the end of 2023. There has even been whispers about some flaws. So we took it for an extensive drive and this is what we think of the Proton S70, and we include some stuff that we don't quite like. #ProtonS70 #Proton #S70
The Full Review Of The Proton S70 - Including The Not So Good Stuff!
We have had 6-cylinder engines for motorcycles before but never an 8-cylinder engine. Till now. Great Wall Motors of China has officially introduced its first ever 8-cylinder engine for motorcycles at the 2024 Beijing International Motor Show, and things are looking exciting for the company. We don’t have a lot of details about the engine, but here’s a first look! #GWM #Motorcycles #Superbikes
World’s First 8-Cylinder Motorcycle Engine - First Look!
The GWM Tank 700 is the flagship of the Tank series. It is so full of tech that it makes you think about how far the Chinese company has come. One of the key tech highlights about the car is the headlights. It resembles the iris of a camera lens and is just super cool to look at. Here’s a quick look. #GWMTank #GWMTank #GreatWallMotor
Check Out These Ultra Cool Headlights!
The BYD Atto 3 has been in the Malaysian market for quite some time now and it can be spotted almost everywhere. With its popularity and the amount of time it has been here now, this is a good enough for us to tell you how it fares against the competition and how it is like to live with on a day to day basis. So the big question is - Is the BYD Atto 3 still as good as it was, or are there better buys? #BYDAtto3 #BYDMalaysia #BYD
BYD Atto 3: Still Good Or Are There Better Buys Now?
The GAC GS3 Emzoom was launched just last night with two variants for the Malaysian market. The Premium R which is priced at RM128,900 and the Exclusive, which is priced at RM118,900. Distributed locally by a subsidiary of the Tan Chong Group, the G3 Emzoom is a direct competitor to the likes of the Honda HRV and the Proton X50. So what do you need to know about it? We point out everything we can in this video! #GACChina #GACGS3 #GACMalaysia
GAC GS3 Emzoom: Everything You Need To Know About It (Well, Almost)!
Subscribe

© Copyright – Piston.my 2023 Trademarks belong to their respective owners. All rights reserved