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Chery Malaysia recalls 600 units of Omoda 5 over potential axle issue – rear beam to be replaced
Chery Malaysia has issued a precautionary safety recall on 600 units of the Omoda 5 over a potential axle issue. This comes following a viral social media post where a customer’s Omoda 5 apparently had its rear axle detach from the vehicle while driving.
The company said it has identified the issue, and that the rear axle beam component on affected vehicles will be completely replaced and not repaired. The work will take about two hours. Affected owners will be directly contacted very soon to bring their cars in.
Chery also added that it had identified one batch of parts to be affected, which may have been caused by a facility upgrade exercise by a particular parts vendor. The company assured its customers that the affected batch of cars are still safe to be driven, and claimed that the viral incident is an isolated case that has since been successfully resolved.
If they so wish, unaffected customers outside the 600 units (over 7,000 units of the Omoda 5 have been sold in Malaysia) can contact the Chery Malaysia careline +603 2771 7070 to have their cars checked, and full reports on the inspection will be provided.
A dedicated website will also be created for customers to check whether their car is included in the recall.
Statement by Chery Malaysia:
Omoda 5 Issue Identified, Precautionary Measures in Place for Potentially Affected Vehicles
Chery Auto Malaysia is committed to providing safe and reliable transportation solutions, and we are dedicated to ensuring that all our vehicles meet the highest safety standards.
The customer-reported issue highlighted on Facebook recently was determined to be an isolated case. We have promptly addressed this concern by replacing the rear axle beam component and conducting comprehensive quality control tests on the affected vehicle. We can confirm that the matter has been successfully resolved.
Chery Auto Malaysia views this matter seriously as customer safety is our utmost priority. In ensuring that we provide full transparency and accountability we have reached out to the parts vendor and have done an in-depth analysis. We are now able to confirm that 600 vehicles are potentially affected due to the facility upgrade exercise.
As a precautionary measure, Chery Auto Malaysia will be reaching out to customers of the affected Vehicle Identification Numbers (VIN) for a detailed inspection to resolve all technical component issues.
We would like to reassure customers that no other vehicles are affected. Chery Auto Malaysia continues to focus on upholding the safety of our customers and ensuring their peace of mind. A website to cater to this precautionary measure will be in place for all OMODA 5 customers to confirm that their vehicles are not affected.
Customer satisfaction is our utmost priority. Chery Auto Malaysia is dedicated to ensuring we produce the best vehicles and deliver the best service to our customers.
For queries kindly contact the Chery Malaysia Customer Careline at +603- 2771 7070.
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PDRM offering summons discount up to 50% at Tapak Pesta Sungai Nibong, Penang, May 3 to 5
The Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) is offering discounts of up to 50% on selected traffic summonses in Penang from May 3 to 5, in line with the Program Madani Rakyat 2024 Zon Utara. Traffic summons payment counters will be opened at the Tapak Sungai Nibong on the island from 9am to 4pm on those dates.
The discounted rates are however not offered for summonses issued for offences such as red light offences, emergency lane misuse, dangerous overtaking and overtaking across double lines. Summonses for which discounts are also not applicable include non-compoundable offences, court appearance offences, offences involving lorries, modified exhaust-related offences, and summonses issues during Ops Selamat.
For motorists who will be in Penang or around the surrounding areas during these dates, this will be a good opportunity to take advantage of the limited-time discount offer on selected traffic summonses. In addition, there will also be a variety of events held at the venue, including lucky draws, an exhibition by PDRM and other government agencies, product sales and health checks.
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2024 BMW iX1 eDrive20 M Sport launched in Malaysia – single-motor FWD; 475 km EV range; from RM250k
BMW Malaysia has introduced a new base variant of the BMW iX1 called the eDrive20 M Sport, which retails for RM264,000 on-the-road without insurance. This figure is with a five-year extended warranty and six-year service package, but without it, the price drops down to RM249,800.
Compared to the iX1 xDrive30 M Sport that was launched back in May last year, the eDrive20 M Sport is cheaper by RM26,000 (with or without the extended warranty and service package). Of course, there are some noticeable differences in terms of specifications that come with the lower price point.
For starters, the eDrive20 comes with a single, front-mounted electric motor rated at 204 PS (201 hp or 150 kW) and 250 Nm of torque with the temporary boost feature engaged. This is good for a 0-100 km/h time of 8.6 seconds and a top speed of 170 km/h.
By comparison, the xDrive30 has a dual-motor setup delivering as much as 313 PS (308 hp or 230 kW) and 494 Nm – also with temporary boost engaged – for a quicker century sprint time of 5.6 seconds and a slightly higher top speed of 180 km/h.
Both the eDrive20 and xDrive30 share the same lithium-ion battery with a gross energy capacity of 66.5 kWh (64.7 kWh net), but the former has a higher WLTP-rated range of 475 km compared to the xDrive30’s 438 km.
Charging capacities are identical for both variants, with the eDrive20 supporting a max AC input of 11 kW as standard that sees a full charge from 0-100% in 6.5 hours. DC fast charging up to 130 kW is also supported and gets the battery from a 10-80% state of charge in 29 minutes.
One way to tell the eDrive20 from the xDrive30 is by looking at the grille, which is a patterned panel on the base variant while the higher-spec offering comes with vertical slats. Shared equipment between the two iX1 variant include 19-inch M double-spoke style 871 M light-alloy bicolour wheels, the M Sport styling package, the M high-gloss Shadowline package and M roof rails high-gloss Shadowline.
2024 BMW iX1 eDrive20 M Sport spec sheet; click to enlarge The list continues with adaptive LED headlamps, adaptive M suspension, two-zone climate control, an M leather steering wheel, powered front sports seats, an anthracite headliner, a wireless charging pad, BMW Live Cockpit Professional (10.25-inch digital instrument cluster and 10.7-inch infotainment touchscreen), Connected Package Professional (Android Auto and Apple CarPlay support), IconicSounds Electric and a Harman Kardon sound system.
The eDrive20 M Sport’s upholstery is either Veganza synthetic leather or a combination of Alcantara and Veganza, paired with aluminium ‘Hexacube’ interior trim finishers in a light finish. This is different from the xDrive30 M Sport that gets the option of Vernasca leather or a combination of Alcantara and Sensatec. The interior trim finishers are in the same ‘Hexacube’ design too, but in a darker finish.
In the driver assistance department, the eDrive20 M Sport comes standard with the Driving Assistant package as standard, which includes functions such as lane change warning, rear cross traffic alert with brake intervention, exit warning, rear collision prevention and autonomous emergency braking.
2024 BMW iX1 xDrive30 M Sport spec sheet; click to enlarge Interestingly, customers can get the xDrive30 M Sport’s Driving Assistant Plus package as an on-demand feature via the Connected Drive store. A quick check on said store indicates Driving Assistant Plus is available as a subscription (RM167.55/month, RM1,675.51/year, RM2,606.35/three years) or as an unlimited (no subscription) package for RM3,273.36 – there’s also a three-month trial for free.
With the Driving Assistant Plus package, you get access to Steering and Lane Control Assistant, Speed Limit Info, Automatic Speed Limit Assist, Lane Departure Warning as well as Active Cruise Control with stop and go function. Parking Assistant Plus is standard on the eDrive20 and includes a 360-degree camera and Reversing Assistant.
Each purchase is accompanied by an eight-year, 160,000-km battery warranty, BMW roadside assistance and accident hotline as well as BMW Service Online. With a lower price tag, less power but more range and a relatively similar kit list, would you pick the eDrive20 M Sport over the more expensive xDrive30 M Sport?
GALLERY: BMW iX1 eDrive20
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Flash floods reported in PJ, KL, Selayang and Gombak – stay safe on the roads, delay travel if possible
The ongoing heavy rain in the Klang Valley has inevitably caused flash floods in several areas. Astro Radio Traffic has reported flooding and standing water in Petaling Jaya, Selayang, Gombak dan Kuala Lumpur.
Images shared by the KL Information Department Facebook page show that the OUG and Kuchai Lama areas have been particularly badly affected by the inclement weather, with standing water visible on traffic cams on Jalan Awan Besar, Jalan Kuchai Lama and the entrance to the New Pantai Expressway (NPE). This is slowing traffic in these areas.
As usual, we remind you to plan your routes using navigation apps with real-time traffic data, such as Waze and Google Maps – as well as to stay safe on the roads. If it’s at all possible, delay your journey to avoid congestion and the risk of getting caught in the floods.
This should also be a timely reminder to have the Special Perils add-on for your vehicle insurance policy in the event your vehicle ends up stuck in rising waters; while it does cost more, it is a small additional amount compared to the potential repair costs should a vehicle end up flooded.
The Department of Statistics Malaysia (DOSM) stated last year that vehicle losses from floods in 2022 amounted to RM18.8 million, and in addition to the financial cost, vehicles which have been submerged in water may require at least two weeks in repairs.
Severe weather brings danger and potential damage not just from the road surface level, but also from above, as fallen trees may result from said weather. The Special Perils add-on provides coverage against damage from fallen trees, though it is best to take precautions and avoid higher-risk areas when possible.
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Schneider Electric Malaysia launches public EV chargers in PJ – 22 kW AC, 180 kW DC, RM1-1.60/kWh
Schneider Electric Malaysia has launched its DC fast charger for electric vehicles in Petaling Jaya on the premises of its headquarters in Petaling Jaya, Selangor today, at Plaza 33 located at the corner of Jalan Kemajuan and Jalan Semangat.
The DC fast charging at this location is comprised of a Schneider Electric EVLink Pro DC 180 kW charger with two CCS2 combo charger guns, with dynamic load capability for charge load sharing when both charger guns are in use at the same time.
This is joined by two 22 kW AC chargers, each with a Type 2 connector, for a total of four bays for vehicle charging at the premises. Pricing is RM1.60 per kWh for DC charging, and RM1.00 per kWh for AC charging. The idle fee for these charging bays is RM10 for every 30 minutes.
Launched in conjunction with local EV charging point operator JusEV, Schneider Electric Malaysia has entered into an agreement with JusEV to install more than 100 EV chargers this year, of which 10% will be DC fast chargers, and these will be located in both private and commercial buildings, according to the company.
Access to the public charging points will be via the JusEV mobile application, which is available from the Google Play Store and the Apple App Store. Each charging point has its QR code which is to be scanned via the app, before charging commences.
Alternatively, payment for charging at this location can also be made at a payment terminal located alongside the DC fast charger, which can take payment by Visa and MasterCard credit cards, Touch ‘n Go eWallet, GrabPay, and ShopeePay.
These 100 EV chargers will be deployed across 30 EV charging hubs that will be opened this year, and these will be mainly concentrated in the states of Selangor and Johor, said JusEV managing director Jason Wong.
“With almost 90% of EV charging anticipated in buildings, the launch of our first public EV charging hub, together with our partner JusEV represents a step towards the development of sustainable transportation infrastructure within Petaling Jaya. At Schneider Electric, we are committed to contributing to the decarbonisation efforts of Malaysia’s mobility sector,” said Schneider Electric Malaysia president Eugene Quah.
“The collaboration between Schneider Electric and JusEV aligns with our commitment to staying ahead of the curve in meeting the evolving needs of our tenants and customers,” said Plaza 33 general manager Tan Kok Leong.
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Beijing 2024: Geely Panda Knight, Kart, RM35k – could Proton rebadge smaller-than-Kancil EVs to fight P2?
At Auto China 2024 in Beijing, we managed to check out the latest Geely Panda Mini models, the Panda Knight and Panda Kart, the latter being launched at the show. The company’s cheap and cheerful EVs have been around since late 2022, but this is the first time we’ve clapped our eyes on them.
They are certainly tiny – the Knight measures just 3,135 mm long, 1,565 mm wide and 1,655 mm tall, with its wheelbase a scant 2,015 mm long. The bespoilered Kart model is slightly longer at 3,150 mm (it’s also 15 mm narrower and 30 mm taller, the latter on account of sizeable rear wing), but they’re still minuscule – by comparison, a Perodua Kancil is 260 mm longer in length and wheelbase.
Both cars are obvious derivatives of the Panda Mini, sharing that car’s round headlights, clamshell bonnet, pill-shaped body side indentations, body-coloured B-pillar “fin” and C-shaped taillights. Where they differ are in their styling treatments, with the Knight taking on a rugged mini-4×4 bent.
Geely Panda Knight (left) and Kart The orange car you see here sports the obligatory black plastic body cladding (with a cool speckled finish), chunky front and rear bumpers, a new front “grille” with six raised “dashes”, a rear spoiler and 14-inch two-tone alloy wheels.
Then there are the bits that push the Knight into ridiculous Ford Bronco-aping territory, such as the bonnet-mounted grab handles, tow hooks, roof rails and even a ladder on the driver’s side. These look to be merely decorative, however – I wouldn’t recommend you putting any form of load on them, and you should definitely refrain from climbing that ladder.
Geely Panda Kart Meanwhile, the Panda Kart looks like it’s ready for the race track, with details like a deep front air dam, side skirts, fake front fender vents and a sizeable rear diffuser, plus the aforementioned rear wing. The flat hubcaps for the steel wheels also feature a cute design that mimics the directional buttons on a game controller. You also get pink accents throughout if you choose the black paint.
Despite the look-faster bits, all Panda Mini models get the same front motor, producing 41 PS (30 kW) and 110 Nm of torque – barely enough for them to reach a top speed of 100 km/h. On the flip side, both the Knight and Kart get the latest Mini’s upgraded 17.03 kWh battery, which delivers a range of 200 km on China’s lenient CLTC cycle.
They can also be DC fast charged at up to 22 kW – taking the battery from 30 to 80% charge in 30 minutes – while a 6 kW AC wallbox can charge the Panda Knight and Kart from 20 to 100% in four and a half hours. The charge ports are located at the front, where you’ll also find the “Geome” badging; the cars are sold through both Geely and Geometry channels.
All Panda Mini models are identical on the inside, save for some minor trim and colour changes. That means you get a barebones four-seater cabin entirely made out of hard plastics. Despite this, it looks pretty modern, helped by the fitment of an eight-inch freestanding infotainment touchscreen and a slimline 9.2-inch LCD instrument display.
You also get some nice-to-have mod-cons, such as automatic air conditioning, power windows (auto down, but not up) and a rotary gear selector, although the handbrake is still a manual lever. You also get a surprisingly decent amount of rear seat space; this comes at the expense of boot space, which is practically non-existent with all seats up.
It’s in the safety department where the Panda Mini models let the side down. There’s just one airbag for the driver (the passenger gets a couple of storage cubbies instead), and you can forget about having autonomous emergency braking – you don’t even get stability control!
The flip side is that the Panda Mini models are cheap. There are no prices for the Panda Kart yet, but the Panda Knight retails at 53,900 yuan (RM35,500). That would make it an ideal candidate for a cheap Proton electric vehicle, although the national carmaker would have to modify it to pass UN ECE regulations – think dual airbags and stability control at the minimum.
What do you think – should Proton bring in the Panda Mini models to take Perodua head-on? Sound off in the comments after the jump.
GALLERY: Geely Panda Knight at Geely Driving Experience 2024
GALLERY: Geely Panda Kart at Auto China 2024
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Omoda 3 planned for 2026 with aggressive styling
To say that Chery moves at a breakneck pace would be a complete understatement. Having just launched the Omoda 5 last year and the electric E5 this year, the crossover sub-brand – yes, it’s technically separated from the main Chery brand – unveiled the larger Omoda 7 this week. Now we know there’s going to be an Omoda 3 soon too!
Expect it to have “mega” styling, said Shawn Xu, Omoda & Jaecoo global CEO in a press session in Wuhu, China. The image (above) used at the dealer conference is clearly of an early design sketch/concept, but it’s certainly a wild looking crossover worthy of that description. We’ll have to wait and see to find out how much of it will filter through to the production version.
As for when that would be, we should be looking at 2026 at the very earliest, as the Omoda 3 is not listed on the 2024/2025 launch table (above) presented to dealers here. What is listed however, is the Omoda 7 PHEV as well as the Omoda E5 facelift, both scheduled for 2025.
Also unknown is how the Omoda 3 will actually fit into Chery Malaysia’s range. With the Omoda 5 priced to take on the Proton X50 and the upcoming Tiggo 4 slated to rival the Perodua Ativa and Honda WR-V, your guess is as good as ours as to where the new O3 will be positioned.
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2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE450 AMG Line facelift now in Malaysia – 3.0T mild-hybrid, 381 PS/500 Nm, RM529k
Six months after the local debut of the facelifted GLE Coupe, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia (MBM) has announced the introduction of the refreshed GLE, which arrives here as in the same GLE 450 AMG Line guise as seen on the pre-facelift. The locally-assembled SUV is priced at RM528,888 on-the-road without insurance, inclusive of 10% sales tax.
As it is with the Coupe, the exterior rework on this one is minor, led by a new front bumper and revised Multibeam LED headlamps with a new daytime running light signature. The AMG Line exterior brings about a diamond grille with Mercedes-Benz pattern in chrome, an AMG front apron with chrome trim element and AMG side sill panels.
Also going on is a new AMG rear apron with diffuser-look insert as well as 21-inch AMG multi-spoke light-alloy wheels, aluminium-look illuminated running boards with rubber studs and a panoramic sliding sunroof. The GLE is also fitted with an Airmatic air suspension system with adaptive damping system ADS+.
Inside, the cabin receives a few revisions, but the general presentation in the interior – which is presented in an AMG Line trim – is otherwise unchanged. New bits include air vent surrounds that are now ringed with chrome accents instead of black and a Nappa-wrapped sports steering wheel incorporating touch sensors on the horizontal spokes.
The specification also includes Artico faux leather, which dresses up the upholstery as well as the dashboard and door belt lines, black fabric roof liner, anthracite open-pore oak wood trim elements, AMG floor mats and wireless charging, among others.
The digital screens remain dual 12.3-inch units, but the Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) has been updated to the automaker’s second-gen NTG7 system, and this offers improved voice recognition and support for wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Audio duties are handled by a Burmester surround sound system.
As before, motive power is provided by a M256 3.0 litre turbocharged inline-six, now delivering 381 PS (375 hp or 280 kW) at 5.800 rpm and 500 Nm of twist from 1,800 to 5,000 rpm. Equipped with a nine-speed 9G-Tronic automatic gearbox and 4Matic all-wheel drive, the facelifted GLE 450 gets from zero to 100 km/h in 5.6 seconds, a fraction faster than the pre-facelift. Top speed is 250 km/h.
Like the GLE 53 Coupe, the GLE 450 also gets a 48-volt mild hybrid system, which features a second-gen integrated starter-generator (ISG). The ISG, which enables functions such as coasting and comfortable engine start-stop, provides the car with an extra 23 PS (20 hp or 15 kW) and 200 Nm.
As for driver assistance and safety equipment includes a Driving Assistance Package Plus, Distronic active distance assist, window bags/rear sidebags/knee airbag and Pre-Safe Impulse Side as well as a parking package with 360° camera and Parktronic active parking assist.
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Chery developing M-series 7-seater MPV/SUV and pick-up truck models, plus new Tiggo 3 and 5 by 2026
Click to enlarge How aggressive is Chery? Let me illustrate – we’re looking at a new model at the ongoing 2024 Chery International Business Conference and the facelift of that same model was just publicly announced, for next year! China’s top auto exporter and most international carmaker is showing off real ‘China Speed’ with its SUVs, but is also eyeing new segments.
The segments we’re talking about is MPV and pick-up truck. According to Zhang Guibing, EVP of Chery International, Chery is currently developing a seven-seat MPV, a seven-seat SUV and a pick-up-truck. These three vehicles are in the new ‘M-series’ and are set to surface by 2026. All three will be designed to accommodate ICE, PHEV and EV powertrains from the start, giving Chery high flexibility.
The MPV and SUV seven-seaters could well be sisters with a different top hat – think tougher-looking three-row MPVs popular in ASEAN such as the Honda BR-V and Toyota Rush/Daihatsu Terios/Perodua Aruz triplets. Or they could be higher end – Chery is showing the Exeed E08 luxury EV MPV at Auto China Beijing.
Click to enlarge All Chery M-series bodystyles are important in the ASEAN market – three-row people carriers are big in Indonesia (luxury MPVs are favoured by the rich in our region too) and pick-up trucks are a staple in Thailand – so these new Chery models should be set for our part of the world. Sounds a bit like Toyota’s IMV?
Also in the works are new members to the Tiggo SUV family – a Tiggo 3 and a Tiggo 5. At present, both numbers are unaccounted for, but Chery’s plan could be renewing and ‘bumping up’ the current Tiggo 2 and Tiggo 4 into 3/5. The Tiggo 4 – which we just reported will be coming to Malaysia next year – is one of the older models in the family, although it recently received a big facelift to align with the rest of the range.
Click here for what’s new on the Omoda and Jaecoo front.
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BMW Malaysia and Gentari launch EV charging station at The Exchange TRX – 13 AC chargers; RM0.25/min
BMW Group Malaysia has partnered with Gentari (through its subsidiary Gentari Green Mobility) to launch a new electric vehicle (EV) charging station located at The Exchange TRX. Located in the basement carpark of the shopping mall, the station features 13 AC chargers that are capable of delivering up to 22 kW each.
Of the 13 AC chargers available, five are located at the Premium Parking level while the remaining eight units can be found at Level B1. The chargers are accessible from 10am to 10pm daily and you’ll be charged by the time being plugged in at RM0.25 per minute.
The growth in regard to Malaysia’s reception of electromobility, especially in the most populated areas of the country, has been thriving – and to this end it is more vital than ever to ensure robust EV charging infrastructure is in place to accommodate this heartening maturation,” said Benjamin Nagel, managing director of BMW Group Malaysia.
“Through our partnership with Gentari, we are thrilled to be able to reaffirm our dedication towards advancing this need by establishing more cutting-edge charging technology in strategic urban locations to meet the evolving needs of our valued customers,” he added.
“We are pleased to expand our continued collaboration with BMW Malaysia in supporting Malaysia’s energy transition journey. This effort underscores our commitment in advancing the growth of green mobility and energy transition within the nation. Having deployed over 335 EV charging points with over 100 DC fast chargers nationwide, Gentari proudly operates the largest DC charging network aimed at enhancing accessibility to low carbon transportation options across the country,” commented Shah Yang Razalli, deputy CEO of Gentari and CEO of Gentari Green Mobility.
To date, BMW Group Malaysia has set up over 2,020 charging facilities through strategic partnerships with various EV charging providers in Malaysia. Additionally, over 100 BMW i and MINI charging facilities are also available at most authorised dealerships.
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Jaecoo J5 hybrid and EV models to debut in 2025; flagship J9 in EV and PHEV forms to arrive later
Chery International has just confirmed an all-new Jaecoo J5 model for 2025. Set to form the premium brand’s smallest offering, it will slot in right under the upcoming J6 EV.
Unlike the electric-only J6, however, the new J5 will be built in both HEV (petrol hybrid) and pure EV forms. The image given shows a crossover with similar styling to the J7, but with even more resemblance to the latest monolithic Range Rover designs.
Given that the J6 is already relatively compact at around 4,400 mm long, the J5 being a size smaller would bring it closer to the BYD Dolphin and MG4 class, albeit with a taller SUV body and a pseudo-premium badge. If priced attractively, the stylish J5 should be fairly popular among the young and trendy.
Well, that’s assuming it will make its way into Malaysia, of course. But considering Chery International’s recent track record of bringing everything it has to our local market – and quickly, at that – it’s pretty much a shoe-in that the Jaecoo J5 will eventually arrive back home too.
At the opposite end of the Jaecoo range, a new J9 flagship model has been announced too. Not much in the way of details for this one other than that it will be made in plug-in hybrid (PHEV) and EV forms. Busy years ahead for the fledgling premium brand, then!
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Mercedes-Benz partners with Tencent and EA – Need for Speed: Assemble coming to MBUX cars in China
At this year’s Auto China in Beijing, Mercedes-Benz announced it is working with Tencent and EA (Electronic Arts) to improve the in-car gaming experience. Through this collaboration, Need for Speed: Assemble will be made available in Mercedes-Benz vehicles in China by the end of 2024.
This is made possible with the third-generation Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX), which is a precursor to the Mercedes-Benz Operating System (MB.OS) set to debut with the Mercedes-Benz Modular Architecture (MMA) sometime next year.
“Your Mercedes-Benz is more than just a car; it’s your personal arcade. With our cooperation with Tencent and EA, we’re driving the future of in-car entertainment, where luxury meets adrenaline. Tailored to our customers, every journey is now a personalized adventure. Get ready to unlock worlds of excitement,” said Markus Schäfer, CTO and member of the board of management at Mercedes-Benz Group AG.
Previously known as Need for Speed Mobile before being renamed to Need for Speed: Assemble, the game will be sent out to Mercedes-Benz vehicles with the third-generation MBUX via an over-the-air (OTA) update. Players will be able to use their Bluetooth gaming controller to play the game when the vehicle is stationary.
We managed to try out the game in a long-wheelbase E-Class during our time in Beijing and found the game to run smoothly with proper controller support. Additionally, the experience was rather immersive as the car’s ambient lighting system and massaging seats were synced with the game to provide further feedback.
According to members of the development team, any progress made in the game is reflected in the version of game playable on mobile phones thanks to cloud support. This allows players to continue where they left off after they’re doing gaming in their Mercedes-Benz.
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Beijing 2024: Radar Horizon – RD6 pick-up EV with AWD, new interior, RHD-ready; new Proton Arena?
At Auto China 2024, Geely’s pick-up truck brand Radar revealed its newest model, the Horizon. This is an upgraded dual-motor all-wheel-drive version of the RD6, launched back in November 2022.
The big news is the addition of a front motor to complement the 272 PS/385 Nm rear motor, resulting in a total system output of 428 PS (315 kW) and 590 Nm of torque. That’s enough to shave one and a half seconds off the zero-to-100 km/h acceleration time, which it completes in just 4.5 seconds – on its way to a top speed of 190 km/h.
On the Horizon, you get the choice of either a 73 kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery or an 86 kWh nickel manganese cobalt (NMC) unit, delivering a range of 460 and 520 km respectively on China’s lenient CLTC cycle.
Radar is touting the Horizon’s renewed go-anywhere ability – the truck is able to switch from rear- to all-wheel drive in as little as 600 ms, and it also comes with seven drive modes, including the new snow, mud, cross-country and water wading settings. Speaking of which, the Horizon has an impressive maximum water wading depth of 815 mm.
Elsewhere, the payload – the RD6’s Achilles heel – has been upgraded and is now rated at over 800 kg across all variants. In fact, Radar has beefed up the payload rating for the rear-wheel-drive RD6 as well – it used to be around 400 kg, but now even the base model can carry up to 790 kg. Towing capacity for the Horizon, meanwhile, is rated at 3,000 kg.
As per the RD6, the Horizon (despite looking like half a Proton X90) is based on Geely’s electric Sustainable Experience Architecture (SEA). Measuring 5.26 metres long, 1.9 metres wide and 1.88 metres tall, the double-cab truck is slightly shorter than the 5.33-metre-long Toyota Hilux. Surprisingly, however, its bed is exactly the same length and almost as wide, at 1,545 by 1,450 mm.
Radar claims the Horizon can fit up to 1,200 litres of cargo at the back, and there’s also a 70 litre front boot. One unique advantage is up to 22 kW of vehicle-to-load (V2L) output, including 15 kW through the charging port, 6 kW through a 230-volt outlet in the bed and another 2.2 kW through two more 230-volt sockets in the front boot and cabin.
On the outside, the Horizon looks almost identical to the RD6 – yes, that includes the X90-style front end – with the only changes being the massive illuminated Radar badge on the grille and a black roof option. But that all changes on the inside.
Here, the X90/Geely Okavango-derived interior has been swapped out for a brand-new dashboard and door cards, the former incorporating a full-width air-con vent design, a 10.25-inch digital instrument display and a massive 14.6-inch freestanding infotainment touchscreen. You also now get a “floating” centre console with a Qi wireless charger.
The right-hand-drive version of the Radar/Riddara RD6 Other features are an eight-speaker surround sound system, Alipay payment integration and Level 2 semi-autonomous driving features. The latter includes autonomous emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane centring assist, traffic sign recognition, blind spot monitoring with collision prevention, rear collision warning and rear cross traffic alert with auto brake.
While Radar is currently a China-only brand, it’s preparing to enter overseas markets soon, using the Riddara brand name due to trademark issues. The company has even gone through the trouble of engineering the RD6 for right-hand drive (likely using X90 interior parts), clearly with an eye to exporting it to big pick-up truck markets such as Australia, Thailand and the rest of ASEAN.
This raises the possibility of the RD6 coming to Malaysia, possibly with Proton branding. What do you think – should the national carmaker bring this in as the spiritual successor to the Arena? Sound off in the comments after the jump.
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Jetour to make public debut in Malaysia next month – Dashing and X70 Plus launch set for H2 2024; CKD
Jetour Dashing Chinese automaker Jetour will make its public debut in Malaysia next month at the Malaysia Autoshow, with the Dashing and X70 Plus set to be put on display. According to a local Jetour representative, both SUVs are still on track to be launched here in the second half of the year as locally-assembled (CKD) offerings.
If you haven’t heard of Jetour before, it is one of two Chery sub-brands that have been announced for Malaysia, with the other being Jaecoo. Jetour had set up office in Malaysia a few months ago as a separate company from Chery Malaysia with an independent management team, so it will compete against Chery (together with Jaecoo) here.
Focusing on the Jetour cars we’re bound to see in Malaysia soon, the Dashing is a five-seat SUV that is the first to be built on the company’s Kunlun architecture. Measuring 4,590 mm long, 1,900 mm wide, 1,685 mm tall and with a wheelbase of 2,720 mm, the Dashing is sized between a Honda HR-V and CR-V.
In China, the Dashing is offered with a choice of two turbocharged inline-four petrol engines. The first is a 1.5 litre unit rated at 156 PS (154 hp or 115 kW) and 230 Nm of torque mated to a six-speed dual-clutch transmission driving the front wheels. Meanwhile, the second option is a 1.6 litre unit making 197 PS (194 hp or 145 kW) and 290 Nm which is paired with a seven-speed DCT, also driving the front wheels.
Jetour Dashing The SUV is also available with a i-DM (intelligent-Dual Motor) plug-in hybrid system that uses the 1.5 litre turbo-four engine as a base. This is augmented by an electric motor rated at 170 PS (168 hp or 125 kW) and 315 Nm for a total system output of 326 PS (322 hp or 240 kW) and 545 Nm.
Power for the electric motor is supplied by a ternary lithium battery with an energy capacity of 19.27 kWh, which is good for an electric-only driving range of up to 80 km following the WLTC standard. Like the non-PHEV variants, the i-DM model is front-wheel drive but it uses a three-speed Dedicated Hybrid Transmission (DHT).
As for the X70 Plus (not to be confused with Proton’s SUV), it is a three-row SUV with seating for up to seven people. It is a much larger car than the Dashing at 4,749 mm long, 1,900 mm wide, 1,720 mm tall and having a wheelbase spanning 2,745 mm – the CR-V is smaller by comparison.
Jetour X70 Plus Like its smaller sibling, the X70 Plus is offered with a selection of powertrains in China, the first being a 1.5 litre turbocharged inline-four petrol engine making 156 PS (154 hp or 115 kW) and 230 Nm. This is paired with either a six-speed manual or DCT to drive the front wheels. The second option is the Dashing’s 1.6 litre turbo-four and seven-speed DCT pairing with the same output figures. There’s also a 2.0 litre turbocharged inline-four petrol with 254 PS (251 hp or 187 kW) and 390 Nm, which remains front-wheel drive and with a seven-speed DCT.
As previously reported, the Dashing and X70 Plus were chosen for Malaysia first because they are already available in right-hand drive form – both are currently produced and sold in Indonesia. Moving forward, the T2 (also known as the Traveller) will be added to the local line-up when right-hand drive production begins sometime in July or August.
The T2 has a more rugged, off-road look and is offered with two powertrains in China, including a 1.5 litre turbocharged inline-four petrol engine with 184 PS (181 hp or 135 kW) and 290 Nm, paired with a seven-speed DCT driving the front wheels. There’s also a 2.0 litre turbo-four making 254 PS (251 hp or 187 kW) and 390 Nm, which gets all-wheel drive and a seven-speed DCT.
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Tesla Cybertruck on display to public at Pavilion Damansara Heights showroom until May 17
Tesla Malaysia has announced that the Tesla Cybertruck will be on display to members of the public at the Tesla Experience Centre Pavilion Damansara Heights starting from tomorrow (April 30 2024) up to May 17 2024. Viewing hours will be 10am to 10pm.
The Cybertruck has been in Malaysia since the second week of April, and has been used in various teaser campaigns. This massive stainless steel electric pick-up truck is in the midst of its Asian tour that has already visited China, Hong Kong and Japan.
The Cybertruck has made waves thanks to its extremely angular wedge design, formed by tough stainless steel panels (dubiously claimed to be “bulletproof”) that continues to drop jaws five years after it was first shown.
@paultancars #Tesla #Cybertruck ni, kereta paling gila! Setuju ke tak? #paultancars #paultan #carsoftiktok #cartok #cartiktok #ev #teslacybertruck #malaysia #viral #trending #fyp #foryou #foryoupage ♬ original sound – Paul Tan's Automotive News There are three variants available, starting with the base rear-wheel-drive model can get from zero to 100 km/h in just 6.7 seconds on its way to a top speed of 180 km/h.
Stepping up to the all-wheel-drive model (which this Foundation Series is) adds a front motor that pushes power to 600 hp (441 kW), slashing the century sprint time to 4.3 seconds. Torque is claimed to be an insane 10,080 Nm, although that figure is at the wheels, multiplied by the ratio of the single-speed transmission. The actual figure, divided by a ratio of 15.02:1, is 671 Nm.
But the one you’ll really want is the triple-motor Cyberbeast, which pushes out a stratospheric 840 hp (630 kW) and gets to 100 km/h in just 2.7 seconds (with the rollout subtracted, as is typical for Tesla these days), on its way to a top speed of 209 km/h. Wheel torque is bumped up to 13,959 Nm, or 929 Nm at the motors.
Range is quoted at 402 km for the RWD model, 547 km with AWD and 515 km for the Cyberbeast. Payload capacity is 1,134 kg for the dual-motor model and 1,030 kg for the Cyberbeast, while towing capacity is rated at 4,990 kg.
What do you think – would you buy a Cybertruck if it were sold in Malaysia?
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