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Proton Shows First Plug-in Hybrid, the e.MAS 7 PHEV

Proton has shown its first plug-in hybrid car, called the e.MAS 7 PHEV, at the Proton Tech Showcase in Shah Alam. The car is not for sale yet, but this preview shows that Proton is getting ready to enter the plug-in hybrid market for the first time.

The e.MAS 7 PHEV is the Malaysian version of the Geely Starray EM-i, a model sold in China. It shares many parts with its fully electric twin, the e.MAS 7. The test car shown to the public has Proton’s large tiger logo on the front and on the glass panels.

The car uses a 1.5-litre engine made by Geely. For hybrid use, the engine was changed to make it more fuel-efficient. It uses the Atkinson cycle, has simpler parts, and includes a special EGR system to reduce fuel use. The engine also never stops charging the battery unless the wheels need extra help.

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BYD Shark in Malaysia – What To Expect!

BYD is officially bringing its first-ever pickup truck, the Shark, to Malaysia, a move that marks the brand’s entry into one of the most competitive vehicle segments in the market. This follows the Shark’s successful launches in regions like Mexico and Thailand, and Malaysian buyers can expect a showcase of the model soon before its official arrival.

The BYD Shark represents a significant step forward for the Chinese automaker as it expands from electric passenger cars into the pickup market. Unlike traditional diesel-powered rivals, the Shark is a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) that blends practicality with high performance and efficiency.

Under the hood, the Shark features BYD’s advanced Dual-Mode Off-Road hybrid system. It pairs a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine with electric motors to deliver a combined output of around 430PS and 650Nm of torque. This powertrain enables the Shark to accelerate from 0–100km/h in just 5.7 seconds, outpacing most conventional pickups on the road.

Equipped with BYD’s signature Blade LFP battery (29.6 kWh), the Shark offers up to 100km of electric-only range, ideal for daily urban commutes without using fuel. When combined with its petrol engine, the truck can travel up to 840km on a full charge and tank. Charging options include both AC and DC capabilities, along with Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) functionality, allowing owners to power electrical devices directly from the vehicle.

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OMODA | JAECOO Hits Record Global Sales in September 2025 with Over 32,000 Vehicles Delivered

OMODA | JAECOO has continued its impressive global momentum, setting a new sales record in September 2025 with 32,840 vehicles delivered worldwide.

The achievement marks a significant milestone for the young dual-brand automaker, which has now surpassed 630,000 cumulative sales in just 29 months since its debut.

Between January and September 2025, OMODA | JAECOO sold a total of 244,522 vehicles globally — a 39% increase compared to the same period last year. The result underlines the brand’s rising strength as one of China’s fastest-growing international automotive players, with expanding presence across Latin America, Europe, and Southeast Asia.

The company’s recent performance reflects a well-calibrated global strategy. In Latin America, markets like Brazil and Mexico saw rapid growth thanks to locally tailored products that suit regional driving habits and consumer preferences. Mexico alone recorded a 40% month-on-month sales increase in September, becoming one of the brand’s top-performing markets.

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Kia Launches the New Carnival HEV 7-Seater in Thailand

Kia Sales Thailand has officially launched the new Kia Carnival HEV 7-seater, a flagship MPV designed to blend hybrid efficiency with upscale comfort and family versatility. Marketed under the tagline “Built for Every Move of Life,” this latest version brings a strong mix of performance, technology, and practicality for modern families looking for both space and sophistication.

Under the bonnet, the Carnival HEV is powered by a 1.6-litre turbocharged engine paired with a 54 kW electric motor, delivering a combined output of 245 PS and 367 Nm of torque through a six-speed automatic transmission. Buyers can choose between two trims — the Carnival HEV Premium priced at 2,499,000 Baht (around RM323,000), and the top-tier Luxury variant at 2,699,000 Baht (around RM349,000).

The exterior carries a refreshed design that bridges the styling of an SUV with the functionality of an MPV. Kia’s signature Tiger Nose grille now sits between cube-shaped headlights and a new Star Map LED light signature at both ends. The 19-inch geometric alloy wheels give it a bold stance, while functional roof rails capable of supporting up to 100 kg add a touch of adventure-ready practicality.

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UMW Toyota Motor Strengthens Its Lead with Solid September Sales and Growing Hybrid Momentum

UMW Toyota Motor (UMWT) has closed September 2025 on a strong note, reporting total sales of 8,172 units for the month, which pushes its year-to-date tally to 70,418 units. The solid performance reaffirms Toyota’s position as Malaysia’s leading non-national car brand, driven by its reputation for reliability, innovation, and accessible electrified mobility.

The company’s consistent growth continues to align with its “Mobility for All” philosophy, a vision that focuses on providing practical, high-quality vehicles to suit the needs of all Malaysians. Toyota’s wide model range, coupled with dependable after-sales service and its commitment to continuous improvement, has helped the brand remain a trusted choice among local drivers.

Toyota’s hybrid range has become increasingly popular among Malaysians who are looking for practical electrification solutions without the need for charging infrastructure. These self-charging hybrids not only deliver fuel savings and lower emissions but also maintain the familiar driving experience of a petrol vehicle. With more than twenty years of hybrid expertise, Toyota continues to lead the segment in Malaysia with models such as the Corolla Cross Hybrid, which remains a strong performer in its class.

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GWM WEY G9: Premium MPV Set to Enter Malaysia

Great Wall Motor (GWM) is preparing to launch the WEY G9 in Malaysia, marking the brand’s first premium new energy MPV for the market. It also becomes the first Chinese premium MPV of its kind to be locally assembled, with pricing confirmed to come in below RM300,000. Beyond Malaysia, right-hand-drive versions of the G9 will also be exported to regional markets including Thailand and Indonesia.

The arrival of the G9 expands GWM’s Malaysian line-up, which already features the HAVAL H6 HEV, the rugged TANK 300 and 500 HEVs, and the fully electric ORA Good Cat and ORA 07. The MPV fits neatly into the company’s “All Scenarios · All Powertrains · All Users” strategy, bringing a mix of advanced safety, practicality, and luxury aimed squarely at Malaysian families.

The model’s name is steeped in meaning. The “G” represents generational love, while “9” stands for unity and wholeness within the family. “WEY” itself pays tribute to brand founder Jack Wey. True to its “mobile living room” tagline, the G9 aims to transform family journeys into experiences that are both comfortable and connected.

Safety has been built into the very core of this MPV. It recently secured a 5-star C-NCAP safety rating thanks to a series of robust measures. The MPV employs a triple high-strength steel safety cage with more than 81% high-strength steel, ultra-high-strength 2000 MPa A- and B-pillars, reinforced third-row seatbacks, and innovative adhesive blocks to boost rigidity. The roof alone can withstand 12 tonnes of pressure.

To further protect occupants, side curtain airbags stretch over 3.1 metres to cover all three rows and remain inflated for six seconds during severe collisions or rollovers. Impact energy is channelled through a clever four-longitudinal, seven-cross chassis structure, while the battery pack goes through no fewer than 89 test scenarios.

With four-layer side impact protection, six-layer underbody shielding and advanced thermal and water resistance, the system is designed to cope with extremes.

Performance has not been overlooked. Under the bonnet sits a 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine working with a dual-motor hybrid setup and a 4-speed Dedicated Hybrid Transmission. Together, the system generates 442PS and 642Nm, enabling the G9 to sprint from 0–100km/h in just 5.7 seconds and reach a top speed of 200km/h.

Efficiency is equally impressive, with an electric-only range of 170 km (NEDC) from a 44.2kWh battery and a total range of up to 1,000km. Fuel consumption is rated as low as 1.2 litres per 100 km. Charging is quick too, taking 26 minutes for 30–80% on DC fast charge or 6.5 hours using AC.

Inside, the cabin has been designed to deliver first-class comfort. Nappa leather zero-gravity seats come with ventilation, massage, and a one-button reset function. A 12.5-litre refrigerator sits between the seats, offering both heating and cooling, and is practical enough to store drinks, medication, or even cosmetics.

Drivers are met with a two-spoke steering wheel, a 12.3-inch digital instrument display, and a 15.6-inch infotainment touchscreen that runs on GWM’s latest Coffee OS 3.

Flexibility is another highlight, with second- and third-row seats sliding on integrated tracks. With all seats in place, the boot holds 233 litres, but folding them down frees up a cavernous 1,725 litres.

The G9 measures 5,050 mm long, 1,960 mm wide, and 1,900 mm tall, with a wheelbase of 3,085 mm, which makes this bigger than a Toyota Alphard. Customers can choose from exterior colours of grey, black, or white, paired with interior trim in either brown or black.

Bookings are already being taken at selected dealerships nationwide, with the official launch set to take place soon. By pricing the WEY G9 below RM300,000 and combining safety, technology, and genuine luxury, GWM looks ready to raise the bar in Malaysia’s MPV segment.

Porsche to Unveil Hybrid 992.2 911 Turbo S Later This Year

Porsche is preparing to expand its 992.2-generation 911 lineup with the introduction of the new Turbo S variant, which is expected to debut later this year. The announcement was made by Porsche CEO Oliver Blume during the company’s half-year earnings briefing, marking a significant step in the brand’s transition towards electrified performance models.

The forthcoming Turbo S will adopt a hybrid powertrain, a move that aligns with earlier confirmations by former Chief Financial Officer Lutz Meschke in late 2024. The electrified setup signals Porsche’s intent to blend traditional performance with next-generation technology across its iconic 911 range. A standard Turbo model without the “S” badge is also anticipated to follow.

The hybrid system in the new 911 Turbo S will be powered by battery cells developed by V4Drive GmbH, a company Porsche acquired from the Varta AG Group earlier this year. V4Drive, which has since been rebranded as V4Smart, also supplies the cylindrical batteries used in the 911 GTS’s T-Hybrid system. These 1.9-kilowatt-hour battery packs are currently manufactured at facilities in Ellwangen and Nördlingen, with Porsche planning to expand the workforce to 375 employees across both locations to support growing production demands for hybrid 911 models.

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GWM Unveils Enhanced Tank 500 Hi4-T and Hi4-Z Plug-In Hybrids for China

Great Wall Motor (GWM) has officially introduced the upgraded versions of its Tank 500 Hi4-T and Hi4-Z plug-in hybrid off-road SUVs in China, marking a notable advancement in the brand’s electrified SUV offerings. These refreshed models bring improvements to their exterior styling, interior equipment, and driving assistance technologies. Pre-sales are expected to commence in August.

While the fundamental design of the Tank 500 remains consistent with its predecessor, subtle refinements have been applied to the front grille, and the rear now features the new “GWM” logo. The SUV’s dimensions remain unchanged, measuring 5,078 mm in length, 1,934 mm in width, and 1,905 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,850 mm. Off-road enthusiasts will appreciate the 29° approach angle, 24° departure angle, and a minimum ground clearance of 210 mm. Optional towing capabilities remain, offering a maximum capacity of 2,500kg.

A new exterior shade called Dunhuang Green has been added to the colour palette, joining the existing Kunlun Gold, Pamir Silver, and Mount Everest White.

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The Honda Prelude Will be a Blend of Type R Underpinnings and Civic Hybrid Power

Honda is preparing to reintroduce the Prelude nameplate with a compelling blend of performance engineering and hybrid efficiency, setting it apart from the rest of the Civic-based range. The revived model will stand out by featuring the same dual-axis front suspension setup found in the acclaimed Civic Type R, combined with that model’s wider front track and high-performance Brembo brakes. However, instead of being driven by a turbocharged engine, the new Prelude will employ the powertrain from the Civic Hybrid.

This unique pairing of the Civic Hybrid’s electrified power system with the precision handling of the Type R chassis is expected to create a car without direct rivals in the market. While some manufacturers have explored the idea of combining hybrid technology with performance applications, it remains an unconventional strategy across the industry.

Honda appears to be positioning the new Prelude as a grand tourer rather than a full-blown sports coupe. This direction preserves certain elements from previous generations, including its two-door, front-wheel-drive configuration. However, enthusiasts hoping for the return of a manual transmission will be disappointed. Unlike the CR-Z hybrid, which proudly offered a six-speed manual gearbox, the latest iteration of the Prelude will forgo that option entirely.

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Chery Tiggo Cross: A Bold Entry with Turbo and Hybrid Choices for the Malaysian Market

Chery Auto Malaysia is stepping up its game with the launch of the Tiggo Cross, offering Malaysian consumers two compelling powertrain options – a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine and a 1.5-litre hybrid (CSH). Both variants present a modern blend of technology, comfort, and safety aimed at value-conscious buyers without compromising on premium features.

The Tiggo Cross 1.5 Turbo is powered by a 1.5-litre petrol engine producing 147PS and 210Nm of torque, paired with a 6-speed Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT). This variant boasts a respectable 0–100 km/h time of 10.3 seconds in Sport mode and fuel consumption rated at 6.3L/100km.

Meanwhile, the Tiggo Cross 1.5 Hybrid CSH integrates a petrol engine with electric motors, delivering a combined output of 204PS and 310Nm of torque. It is more efficient with a fuel consumption figure of 5.4L/100km and a quicker acceleration time of 8.9 seconds. The hybrid model uses a DHT150 transmission with electronic shift-by-wire functionality.

This advanced CSH system delivers a smooth, fuel-efficient, and responsive drive — perfect
for both urban journeys and long-distance travel up to 1,000km mileage range.

Both variants share the same dimensions: 4318mm long, 1830mm wide, and 1670mm tall, riding on a 2610mm wheelbase, roughly the same size as a Proton X50. The suspension system comprises a MacPherson strut setup at the front and a torsion beam at the rear, with ventilated disc brakes at the front and solid discs at the rear.

Inside, the Tiggo Cross comes equipped with faux leather seats, dual-zone automatic air conditioning with rear vents, and a multifunction leather steering wheel. Both models feature front and rear armrests, ambient lighting, a wireless charger, a keyless entry system, remote engine start, and soft-touch materials across the dashboard.

The driver’s seat is electrically adjustable with lumbar support, while the co-driver’s seat is manually adjustable. Rear seats split 60:40 and offer three headrests. A total of three USB ports (two front, one rear) come as standard.

The dashboard features a dual-screen setup comprising a 10.25-inch digital driver display and a 10.25-inch infotainment head unit, supporting wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Other highlights include Bluetooth connectivity, a 540° HD panoramic camera system, an intelligent voice assistant, and a 6-speaker audio system.

Design-wise, both models are outfitted with LED headlights, daytime running lights (DRLs), tail lamps, fog lights, roof rails, and a rear sport spoiler. The cars sit on stylish 18-inch alloy wheels with red brake callipers for a sporty touch. Automatic headlights and a “Follow Me Home” function further enhance the vehicle’s practicality and style.

Chery prioritises safety with both variants receiving Electronic Stability Program (ESP), Brake Assist System (BAS), Hill Start Assist Control (HAC), Traction Control System (TCS), Emergency Brake Assist (EBA), and a Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS). The Turbo variant comes with 6 airbags, while the Hybrid version is upgraded to 7.

The Hybrid CSH model stands out with its extended Advanced Driving Assistance System (ADAS) suite, which enhances safety and driving convenience. This includes Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Lane Departure Prevention (LDP), Lane Keep Assist (ELK), Forward Collision Warning (FCW), and Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB). Additional features such as Integrated Cruise Control (ICC), Traffic Jam Assist (TJA), Smart Speed Assist (ISA), and Multi-Collision Brake (MCB) further elevate its intelligent driving capabilities.

In contrast, the Turbo model offers a decent level of driver assistance, such as Blind Spot Detection, Lane Departure Warning, Door Opening Warning, and Rear Cross Traffic Alert with Braking.

Both models come in Carbon Black, Phantom Grey, and Khaki White, with the 1.5 Turbo also offered in Blood Stone Red, while the Hybrid CSH adds Moonlight Silver as an exclusive colour option.

Each variant includes a standard warranty of seven years or up to 150,000km. However, the 1.5L Hybrid CSH extends its coverage with an additional eight-year warranty or up to 160,000 kilometres specifically for the battery power pack, power motor, and hybrid control unit. Both models also come with seven years of complimentary towing service.

Pricing starts from RM88,800 for the 1.5 turbo and RM99,800 for the 1.5 Hybrid CSH. The early bird package consists of two years all inclusive free service.

The Chery Tiggo Cross offers a compelling package, whether you prefer the responsive petrol-powered 1.5 Turbo or the high-efficiency 1.5 Hybrid CSH. With generous features, an advanced safety suite, and striking styling, it stands out as a serious contender in the compact SUV segment in Malaysia.