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  • Bangkok 2024: Neta X shown in Thailand – 51.8 kWh and 62 kWh battery, up to 501 km range CLTC

    Bangkok 2024: Neta X shown in Thailand – 51.8 kWh and 62 kWh battery, up to 501 km range CLTC

    Among the strong representation of Chinese manufacturers and their EV models at BIMS 2024 is Neta, which in addition to the V-II, brought the X, which is the U facelift, an all-electric SUV that is actually slated for Malaysian arrival in the second quarter of this year.

    The Neta X measures 4,619 mm long, 1,860 mm wide and 1,628 mm tall with a wheelbase of 2,770 mm, making it larger than the popular Toyota Corolla Cross, which measures 4,460 mm long, 1,825 mm wide and 1,620 mm tall with a wheelbase of 2,640 mm.

    Motive power for the Neta X is by a single electric motor producing 163 PS and 201 Nm, according to Car News China; this propels the Neta X to a top speed of 150 km/h. An LFP battery pack of either 51.8 kWh or 62 kWh capacity offers range of between 401 km and 501 km on the CLTC testing protocol.

    Inside, the cabin of the Neta X features two displays screens; the driver gets an 8.9-inch instrument display while the central infotainment unit is a 15.6-inch LCD display, and this example displayed at BIMS 2024 features a brown-and-black scheme for its leather upholstery.

    Here, the X has dispensed with the third screen on the U, which was for climate control functions. In its place just below the central air-conditioning vents is a a pair of cupholders as well as a wireless device charging pad, and behind it is a secondary tray, just ahead of the central armrest storage compartment.

    In Malaysia, Neta vehicles are distributed by Intro Synergy, a wholly-owned subsidiary of GoAuto Group which signed a deal with Hozon Auto in 2023, and Intro Synergy has stated its aim of introducing the Neta U in Malaysia by Q2 2024. Given that the Neta X is the updated iteration of the Neta U, it could be this model which makes its local arrival this year.

     
  • Bangkok 2024: Zeekr makes ASEAN debut – LHD Zeekr X, 009 and 007 EVs, coming to Malaysia soon?

    Bangkok 2024: Zeekr makes ASEAN debut – LHD Zeekr X, 009 and 007 EVs, coming to Malaysia soon?

    Zeekr X

    Geely’s premium electric vehicle brand Zeekr has already confirmed it will be selling cars in Southeast Asia, and its appearance at the Bangkok International Motor Show (BIMS) is its statement of intent. The company will be represented in Thailand by Arun Plus, a joint venture between MGC Asia and petroleum giant PTT, which will also distribute the Xpeng brand.

    A total of three cars – all built on the Sustainable Experience Architecture (SEA) – are being showcased in the Land of Smiles, these being the Zeekr X, 009 and 007. The first two are already open for booking and will arrive in the country in the third quarter of the year, with the 007 being a little further out. All three show cars are left-hand-drive units, with the conversion to right-hand drive still ongoing.

    Zeekr X

    Bangkok 2024: Zeekr makes ASEAN debut – LHD Zeekr X, 009 and 007 EVs, coming to Malaysia soon?

    Let’s start with what will almost certainly be the most attainable of the lot, the Zeekr X. Based on the same SEA3 platform as the smart #1 (as well as the #3 and the Volvo EX30), it’s a fashionable compact SUV in much the same vein as the new MINI Countryman, being around the same size – 4,450 mm long, 1,836 mm wide and 1,572 mm, with a 2,750 mm wheelbase.

    Zeekr was carved out of Lynk & Co, and the X still bears remnants of that brand’s design language, replete with split headlights (with H-shaped upper daytime running lights, first seen on the The Next Day concept), upswept window line, contrasting black roof and full-width taillight bar. Diagonal character lines on the bumpers and body side give the car a dynamic, youthful look.

    Inside, you’ll find a minimalist cabin with a slim horizontal dashboard, “squircle” two-spoke steering wheel and a sliding centre console box similar to the Hyundai Ioniq 5 (replete with a refrigerator!). Of course, there are screens galore, including an 8.8-inch digital instrument display, a 14.6-inch infotainment touchscreen (which can be slid to the passenger side) and a massive 24.3-inch augmented reality head-up display.

    Bangkok 2024: Zeekr makes ASEAN debut – LHD Zeekr X, 009 and 007 EVs, coming to Malaysia soon?

    Other notable features include power-opening doors, a 13-speaker Yamaha sound system and even a display on the B-pillar that can show the state of charging, plus a camera that can use facial recognition to unlock the door. The car you see here is dressed in a two-tone blue and white interior colour scheme and comes with rose gold highlights, which together look pretty swish. Unusually for such a small car, the X can be had as either a four- or five-seater; the latter is shown here.

    The Zeekr X is available in single-motor rear-wheel-drive or dual-motor all-wheel-drive versions, the former producing 272 PS (200 kW) and 343 Nm of torque and getting the car from zero to 100 km/h in 5.8 seconds. Meanwhile, the AWD version makes 428 PS (315 kW) and 543 Nm, hurling the X to 100 km/h in 3.8 seconds. If those figures sound familiar, it’s because they’re exactly the same as the smart #1 Premium and Brabus.

    Also shared with those cars is a 66 kWh nickel manganese cobalt (NMC) battery that provides a range of 560 km for the RWD model and 512 km for the AWD car. Those figures are on the rather optimistic CLTC cycle in China; expect real-world range to be closer to 440 km and 400 km respectively quoted for the smart #1 (both on the WLTP cycle). No charging details have been released, but expect the X to accept up to 150 kW of DC fast charging just like the #1, taking 30 minutes to charge from 10 to 80%.

    Zeekr 009

    Bangkok 2024: Zeekr makes ASEAN debut – LHD Zeekr X, 009 and 007 EVs, coming to Malaysia soon?

    Next up is the Zeekr 009, a massive land yacht of an MPV that’s much bigger than the already humongous Toyota Alphard and Vellfire. It’s built on the larger SEA1 platform and is essentially a twin to the Volvo EM90. Measuring 5,209 mm long, 2,024 mm wide and 1,848 mm tall, the 009 is 199 mm longer, 174 mm wider and 102 mm lower than the Alphard, while its 3,205 mm wheelbase is a staggering 205 mm longer.

    The faintly ridiculous dimensions should not only afford the 009 with plenty of space but also a heaping amount of road presence, further emphasised by the bluff surfacing and a giant Rolls-Royce-style chrome-plated and illuminated “smart grille.” Step inside and you’re greeted with six luxurious seats (including the prerequisite business class-style captain’s chairs on the second row), wrapped in Nappa leather that even coats the second-row folding tables.

    Adding to the sense of luxury are features like a massage function for the front passenger and second-row seats, 20 Yamaha-branded speakers (including in the headrests for the driver and second row) and double glazing that reaches all the way back to the third row. You also get a 10.25-inch instrument display, a 15.4-inch centre touchscreen and a separate 15.6-inch ceiling-mounted monitor for the second row, which also get one-touch meeting and theatre modes for the rear screen, seats and sunshades.

    In China, all models get dual-motor all-wheel drive that makes an astonishing 544 PS (400 kW) and 686 Nm, flinging this behemoth to 100 km/h in just 4.8 seconds. Buyers get a choice of 116 kWh and 140 kWh NMC batteries that deliver a CLTC-rated range of 702 and 822 km respectively. Again, there are no charging details, only that the 116 kWh battery can be DC fast charged from 10 to 80% in 28 minutes.

    Zeekr 007

    Bangkok 2024: Zeekr makes ASEAN debut – LHD Zeekr X, 009 and 007 EVs, coming to Malaysia soon?

    Last but not least is the Zeekr 007, a sedan that shares not just its numerals with Britain’s beloved fictional spy but also his sharp suit. This is the first model to feature a completely separate design language from Lynk & Co, dominated by the Stargate front mask that houses 1,711 LEDs and can be customised to show different images or messages.

    The clean, organic design features very little in the way of ornamentation – there aren’t even any door handles as the doors open automatically, like the Zeekr X (the car you see here is clearly a low-spec model with door handles and, criminally, no Stargate panel). Inside, the 007 shares a similar design with the X, albeit with a full centre console with Tesla-style dual Qi wireless chargers.

    Bangkok 2024: Zeekr makes ASEAN debut – LHD Zeekr X, 009 and 007 EVs, coming to Malaysia soon?

    The tech, however, has moved on quite a bit – you get a 13-inch instrument display, a 15-inch OLED touchscreen and a 35.5-inch (!) head-up display. Other features include reclining rear seats, a glass roof, an in-house-developed 21-speaker sound system, magnetorheological dampers, a Tesla Model 3-style one-piece rear windscreen/glass roof panel and a roof-mounted lidar sensor to augment the car’s advanced driver assistance systems.

    Like the Zeekr X, the 007 can be had either in single-motor RWD form with 421 PS (310 kW) and 440 Nm or in dual-motor AWD trim with an impressive 646 PS (475 kW) and 710 Nm. The century sprint is completed in 5.6 and 3.8 seconds respectively, although bizarrely there’s a performance version that can fling itself to 100 km/h in just 2.84 seconds (excluding rollout) – despite having the same amount of power.

    Bangkok 2024: Zeekr makes ASEAN debut – LHD Zeekr X, 009 and 007 EVs, coming to Malaysia soon?

    Range figures are 688 km with the RWD model and 616 km with AWD, both with a 75 kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery. The performance model has a larger 100 kWh NMC battery and has a claimed range of 660 km. With an 800-volt architecture, a sufficiently high-powered DC fast charger will be able to provide 610 km of range with just 15 minutes of charging.

    Aside from the Land of Smiles, Zeekr will also be sold in Singapore, the Philippines, Laos and Myanmar. No word on Malaysia yet, with the brand only saying it will be “studying different markets.” Could it arrive here one day under Proton subsidiary Pro-Net, alongside smart? Only time will tell.

    GALLERY: Zeekr X at BIMS 2024


    GALLERY: Zeekr 007 at BIMS 2024
    GALLERY: Zeekr 009 at BIMS 2024

     
  • High-Value Goods Tax implementation put on hold, finance ministry says gov’t to announce new date later

    High-Value Goods Tax implementation put on hold, finance ministry says gov’t to announce new date later

    The High-Value Goods Tax (HVGT), which was supposed to be implemented from May 1, 2024, has been put on hold. It was reported that this is due to the finance ministry’s postponement in presenting the bill to parliament.

    According to The Edge, the delay in the bill was due to disagreements over the definition of “high-value goods” and the price range of items that would be subject to the tax, this despite dialogues and consultations having been made with retail industry players and tax professionals.

    The deferment of the new tax, which is to be imposed on luxury or big-ticket items at a rate of between 5% and 10% as announced during the tabling of Budget 2024, was confirmed by deputy finance minister Lim Hui Ying, who told The Star that the government will continue engaging with the industry to ensure the tax principles and legislation can be formulated and drafted carefully.

    The ministry, she said, is in the final stage of refining certain matters related to the tax structure, especially the type of goods categorised as “high-value” as well as the threshold determination and tax rates.

    High-Value Goods Tax implementation put on hold, finance ministry says gov’t to announce new date later

    “HVGT will only be imposed on certain goods categorised as high value. Fundamentally, low-income groups will not be affected by its implementation because they are unlikely to purchase high-value goods,” she said in a written reply to the news publication.

    “The government will announce the new implementation date of the HVGT later,” she said. She added that the HVGT will not be imposed in designated areas including Labuan, Langkawi, Pangkor and Tioman, as well as special areas such as free zones and licensed warehouses. Langkawi is of course a haven for supercars, not always in a good way.

    Initially, it was stated that jewellery over RM10,000, watches above RM20,000 and cars priced beyond RM200,000 would be subject to the HVGT. However, it was not detailed how this would be applied, and how the thresholds would be defined.

     
  • Motorcycle lane diversion for Shah Alam Expressway

    Motorcycle lane diversion for Shah Alam Expressway

    A motorcycle lane traffic diversion is in effect for the Shah Alam Expressway (SAE) from kilometre 24.2 to 23.3. The diversion will run from March 30 to April 19, 2024.

    This is to facilitate construction work for the SAE interchange on the West Coast Expressway (WCE) Taiping to Banting. Work areas and diversions affecting the stretch of highway between the Bandar Puteri and Jalan Kebun interchanges are illustrated in the graphic above.

    Motorcyclists and those on the main highway lanes should take note of the diversion and drive/ride safe. Highway users are advised to follow road signs and crew instructions in the area.

     
  • Bangkok 2024: Third-gen Mitsubishi Triton grows larger; new 4N16 engine, ADAS now includes ACC

    Bangkok 2024: Third-gen Mitsubishi Triton grows larger; new 4N16 engine, ADAS now includes ACC

    The third-generation Mitsubishi Triton that made its global debut in Thailand last July has also been on display at the 2024 Bangkok International Motor Show (BIMS), which has given us the opportunity to bring a live image gallery of the brand’s latest pick-up truck.

    The Triton in its third generation also marks the brand’s sixth-generation of pick-up truck, and also went on sale earlier this year in the brand’s native Japan for the first time in 12 years. As shown here at BIMS 2024, the Triton is displayed in Athlete trim.

    The double-cab body that is most relevant to the Malaysian market brings the third-generation Triton to 5,360 mm long (55 mm longer than its predecessor), 1,930 mm wide (+115 mm) and 1,815 mm tall (+35 mm), while wheelbase is 3,130 mm (+130 mm).

    A new engine codenamed 4N16 is same 2.4 litre capacity as before (2,442 cc), featuring an intercooler, a variable geometry turbocharger, common rail fuel injection and DOHC.

    This is offered in three states of tune, with the headlining spec bringing 204 PS at 3,500 rpm and 470 Nm from 1,500 rpm to 2,750 rpm; two other versions produce 184 PS/430 Nm, and 150 PS/330 Nm.

    The Athlete variant shown here is of the high-output powertrain specification, which is mated to the manufacturer’s Super Select 4WD-II driveline system that features four modes – 2H (rear-wheel drive), 4H (full-time 4WD), 4HLc (locked centre differential) and 4LLc (locked centre differential with lower gears).

    Active Yaw Control (AYC) also features on variants with Super Select 4WD-II, improving cornering performance by lightly braking the inside front wheel.

    Active safety kit on the third-generation Triton is comprised of Forward Collision Mitigation (autonomous emergency braking), Blind Spot Warning (blind spot monitoring) with Lane Change Assist and Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA), also adding Adaptive Cruise Control that was absent from its predecessor. Other features such as Active Stability Control (ASC), traction control, Hill Descent Control and Hill Start Assist continue to feature.

    For now, Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia is working to have the third-generation Triton brought to Malaysia before the end of this year, though its launch date has yet to be confirmed. In Thailand, pricing for the third-generation Triton starts from 565,000 baht (RM73,390) for the Single Cab 2.4L Active cab-chassis variant, and tops out at 1,298,000 baht (RM168,602) for the Double Cab Athlete 4WD AT.

     
  • MG4 and MG ZS EV – get a free wallbox charger or charging credits with every purchase, until April 30

    MG4 and MG ZS EV – get a free wallbox charger or charging credits with every purchase, until April 30

    Electrification is opening up new chapters in the automotive arena, with electric vehicles offering not just emissions-free motoring, but exhilarating performance and introducing cutting-edge technology as well. The neatest part is that consumers have more options on that front than ever before.

    The latest to debut on the Malaysian scene is a brand with a long heritage, arriving with an impressive range of innovative, trendy vehicles. Morris Garages is a name steeped with plenty of history, and the new MG range of EVs continues that proud tradition of the British marque, now delivered via its dynamic partnership with SAIC Motor, with a host of iconic, fun-to-drive vehicles, very much geared for the young and young-at-heart.

    MG Motor Malaysia’s two debut models are comprehensive in their range, offering entry into the MG world via many price points. The star of the show is the MG4, available here in four variants. The range starts at RM103,999 for the Standard, rising up to RM128,999 for the Lux and RM148,999 for the Lux Extended, with the MG4 XPower high-performance variant topping the range at RM158,999.

    MG4 and MG ZS EV – get a free wallbox charger or charging credits with every purchase, until April 30

    All MG4 variants come with an impressive seven-year/150,000 km vehicle warranty and an eight-year/180,000 km battery warranty. You’ll also get a one-for-one battery swap if the battery’s health drops below 70% during the warranty period.

    Each offers a blend of exceptional performance and value. Power outputs range from 170 PS (125 kW) and 250 Nm on the Standard, which can get from zero to 100 km/h in 7.5 seconds, to 203 PS (150 kW) on the Lux and 245 PS (180 kW) and 350 Nm on the Lux Extended. The XPower is undoutedly the one to pick if it’s performance you’re after, because its dual motors produce 435 PS (320 kW) and 600 Nm, allowing it to do 0-100 km/h in just 3.8 seconds.

    As for range, the Standard’s 51 kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery delivers 350 km of travel on a single charge, while the Lux’s 64 kWh nickel manganese cobalt (NMC) battery provides a longer 435 km range. The Lux Extended gets an even larger 77 kWh battery, offering to 520 km on a single charge. The XPower is equipped with a 64 kWh battery, offering it 385 km of high-performance travel. Charge times for the models vary from 6.1 hours to 8.5 hours via AC charging to 26 minutes and 38 minutes via DC fast charging.

    Safety and convenience come via the brand’s MG Pilot driver assistance suite and MG iSmart mobile app. MG Pilot’s safety features include autonomous emergency braking, adaptive cruise control with stop and go, lane centring assist, a driver attention alert and auto high beam, as well as blind spot monitoring with collision prevention, rear cross traffic alert and a door opening warning.

    As for the iSmart mobile app, this provides a host of functions that enable the user to find their MG4, plan routes, check on the status of the vehicle including battery charging management and more, ensuring one is always connected to the car.

    If you’re looking for an EV with exceptional value, combining practicality, innovation and performance into a single package, then the ZS EV is surely the right pick. The electric SUV, priced at RM125,999, is equipped with a 176 PS/280 Nm front motor, which gets it from 0-100 km/h in eight seconds. A 51.1 kWh LFP battery offers up to 320 km of range, and the battery can be charged in eight hours via AC and from 10-80% in 65 minutes via DC charging.

    MG4 and MG ZS EV – get a free wallbox charger or charging credits with every purchase, until April 30

    To ensure peace of mind, the company has introduced a MG Insurance Program (MIP), which brings about many benefits, including unlimited towing cost coverage, home wallbox charger coverage (up to RM10,000 reimbursement should the wallbox charger be stolen or damaged by external factors) and betterment and waiver of excess up to 10 years.

    Buyers who purchase an MG vehicle before April 30, 2024, stand to get a host of goodies, including a free 7 kW wallbox charger (with installation) worth RM4,600 for the MG ZS EV and MG4 Standard, or a free 11 kW wallbox charger (with installation) worth RM5,200 for the MG4 Lux. MG4 Lux Extended Range and XPower buyers get 1,000 free charging credits with DC Handal and JomCharge.

    Learn more about the MG4 and MG ZS EVs on MG Motor Malaysia’s website. You can also visit the company’s official Facebook page, or its Instagram and Tiktok, to find out more.

     
  • Bangkok 2024: W214 Mercedes-Benz E-Class – diesel and PHEV, standard MBUX Superscreen, from RM517k

    Bangkok 2024: W214 Mercedes-Benz E-Class – diesel and PHEV, standard MBUX Superscreen, from RM517k

    It’s been nearly a year since the W214 Mercedes-Benz E-Class was shown, but the sixth-generation executive sedan has finally landed in ASEAN. Shown at the Bangkok International Motor Show (BIMS), the new car is being offered in Thailand in diesel mild hybrid and petrol plug-in hybrid models, with no pure petrol variant in sight (yet).

    The good news is that despite the greater sophistication, the starting price has held station at 3,990,000 baht (RM517,100) for the E220d AMG Line. The car you see here is the PHEV version, the E350e AMG Dynamic, which costs 4,250,000 baht (RM550,700).

    Engine options include a 2.0 litre OM654 four-cylinder turbodiesel in the E220d that produces 192 PS at 3,600 rpm and 440 Nm of torque from 1,800 to 2,800 rpm. Sandwiched between it and the nine-speed 9G-Tronic automatic gearbox is a 23 PS/220 Nm electric motor that forms part of a 48-volt mild hybrid system. Fuel consumption is rated at between 4.8 and 5.5 litres per 100 km.

    Bangkok 2024: W214 Mercedes-Benz E-Class – diesel and PHEV, standard MBUX Superscreen, from RM517k

    This E350e – badged as the E300e everywhere else – is instead powered by a 2.0 litre M254 turbo petrol mill, churning out 204 PS and 350 Nm. You also get a 129 PS/440 Nm electric motor to provide a total system output of 313 PS and 550 Nm, enabling the car to sprint from zero to 100 km/h in 6.4 seconds on its way to a top speed of 236 km/h.

    Meanwhile, combined fuel consumption is rated at between 0.5 and 0.8 litres per 100 km. A 25.4 kWh battery provides an all-electric range of between 97 and 115 km on a single charge. In the Land of Smiles, the E350e can be charged with a DC fast charger at up to 55 kW, taking 30 minutes for a full charge.

    As the variant names suggest, both models come with the AMG Line bodykit, along with the rather showy three-pointed star graphic on the grille (with a gloss black surround, just like the EQ electric models) and even the LED taillights. Standard equipment includes LED High Performance reflector headlights and 19-inch five-spoke AMG alloy wheels.

    Bangkok 2024: W214 Mercedes-Benz E-Class – diesel and PHEV, standard MBUX Superscreen, from RM517k

    Moving up to the E350e nets you the classier Digital Light projector headlights, an illuminated grille and 20-inch multi-spoke alloys. Inside, the E220d and E350e are fitted with the MBUX Superscreen that consists of a 12.3-inch digital instrument display, a 14.4-inch infotainment touchscreen and a second 12.3-inch touchscreen for the front passenger.

    The E220d is also fitted with powered, heated and ventilated front sports seats with memory and lumbar adjustment, leather upholstery, gloss black interior trim, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a Qi wireless charger, dual-zone climate control, an interior camera, a 360-degree camera system and a hands-free powered boot lid.

    Exclusive to the E350e are a head-up display, active ambient lighting, acoustic glass for the windscreen and side windows, open-pore black ash wood trim, the MBUX Interior Assistant and a Burmester 4D surround sound system.

    Safety-wise, the E-Class comes as standard with seven airbags, stability control and the Driving Assistance Plus package that includes autonomous emergency braking, Distronic adaptive cruise control with stop and go, lane centring assist, evasive steering assist, blind spot monitoring, park assist and adaptive high beam.

    GALLERY: W214 Mercedes-Benz E350e at BIMS 2024

     
  • Sign up for the Caltex Diesel Government Subsidy card and enjoy diesel rebates for your business!

    Sign up for the Caltex Diesel Government Subsidy card and enjoy diesel rebates for your business!

    This month, the Malaysian government introduced the Subsidised Diesel Control System 2.0 (SKDS) for businesses to continue enjoying subsidised diesel. If your business is eligible for the programme, then you can sign up for the Caltex Diesel Government Subsidy Card to make purchasing lower-priced diesel fuel a convenient affair.

    Caltex offers three cards to help you manage your subsidies. Choose the Caltex Diesel Subsidy Debit card with a prepaid account or a Caltex Diesel Subsidy Credit card with an up to 30-day credit term. No matter which one you pick, you can access your account at anytime, anywhere using the Caltex StarCard Online mobile app.

    Alternatively, you can apply for the Caltex Diesel Subsidy CashCard that gives you price rebates immediately, letting you pay for diesel by cash after deducting the subsidy amount. This card will also let you earn rewards points with every transaction. Here, the balance subsidy quota is reflected in each purchase receipt.

    Membership to the Caltex Diesel Government Subsidy Card is free – there are no annual fees, subscription fees or card replacement fees for applying. For more information and to apply for your card, visit the official Caltex Business Solutions website.

     
  • Bad weather results in fallen trees – why Special Perils add-on for your carinsurance is a good idea

    Bad weather results in fallen trees – why Special Perils add-on for your carinsurance is a good idea

    The occurrence of adverse weather that results in fallen trees and roadside furniture can be unpredictable, and as depicted by these images from a Sri Petaling community Facebook page, vehicles parked in the vicinity of said trees are most exposed, and some of these are seen to be surrounded by very large fallen branches.

    The extent of damage is currently not known, nor if there were any injuries which resulted from the falling trees and objects. Any such damage sustained by the vehicles will be potentially very costly to repair, and it is typcially at this point where one wonders if car insurance will cover for eventualities such as this.

    It does, but only if the policy holder has selected the special perils add-on for their car insurance policy. Incidents of fallen trees, as well as flooding, are prime examples of why the further coverage provided by the special perils add-on is crucial.

    Coverage by the special perils add-on to one’s regular vehicle insurance policy brings added cover for natural disasters and acts of God, including for incidents such as fallen trees like this. We have tabled the costs of adding special perils coverage from various auto insurance providers in Malaysia, and these rates range from 0.15% to 0.20%, depending on company.

    For a vehicle insured for a value of RM50,000, it can be as little as RM75, ranging up to RM240 at the higher end of the scale. While not a tiny sum of money, it surely is much more affordable than potential vehicle repair costs arising from damage inflicted by a fallen tree, isn’t it?

    PS: If you renew your car insurance using our car insurance and road tax renewal service, you can compare how much special perils add-on is being quoted for your car from different insurers and choose the most affordable one.

     
  • Don’t tie targeted subsidies to PADU registrations, as many needing aid likely to be excluded, say academics

    Don’t tie targeted subsidies to PADU registrations, as many needing aid likely to be excluded, say academics

    It has already been stated that the Pangkalan Data Utama (PADU) socio-economic database, for which registration ends on March 31, will be used as a key component in how the government retargets subsidies and assistance.

    However, only around nine million people out of a possible 30.08 million have registered their details as of this week, and the low registrations may make it challenging for the government to target subsidies accurately. Economy minister Rafizi Ramli reiterated the point earlier this week, saying that low numbers might not allow the government to move forward with its plan.

    Despite this, the government’s noble intention of helping the poor should not be derailed just because some people have not registered under PADU, say academics. According to Tan Sri Noor Azlan Ghazali, the director of Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia’s Malaysian inclusive development and advancement institute, the two issues should not be tied together, as The Star reports.

    “It is important for the government to separate the two issues of filling in the PADU system and targeted subsidies. It is not right when many do not receive their eligible subsidies or cash handouts just because they did not fill in their details in PADU,” he said.

    Don’t tie targeted subsidies to PADU registrations, as many needing aid likely to be excluded, say academics

    He added that in handing out cash as assistance to the poor, it was important for the government to not simply celebrate the number of recipients who will receive cash handouts and subsidies, and that it should also look at increasing the recipient’s capacity to boost their future income.

    “This means that with the transfer of a cash handout, recipients are also told to register at nearby training institutes or community centres to enable them to get skills training that could help them in raising their income.” he explained.

    “The question is, are there people who have done better in their lives and come out of the cycle of poverty? For now, we are informed that there are about eight million recipients who are eligible to receive cash handouts and subsidies. If each has three dependants, that would come up to more than 24 million people,” he said.

    Don’t tie targeted subsidies to PADU registrations, as many needing aid likely to be excluded, say academics

    Meanwhile, economist Tan Sri Lin See Yan said the government needs to get its formula right on what defines the poor before it implements targeted subsidies. The former Bank Negara Malaysia deputy governor said that without the right formula, targeted subsidies would be a failure as they would not reach relevant groups.

    Additionally, Sunway University professor of economics Yeah Kim Leng said a good formula must be easy to administer so that costs are kept to the minimum, and that there are minimal leakages and inclusion/exclusion errors.

    While a timefrane for targeted subsidies has been indicated (for RON 95 petrol, in the second half of this year), the government has not yet announced its mechanism and how these subsidies will be dispensed, although it is said to be mulling using using monthly cash transfers as a means to disburse financial aid to those who qualify for it.

     
  • Vehicle inspection service providers to be allocated urban, rural locations; RM15 million capital required

    Vehicle inspection service providers to be allocated urban, rural locations; RM15 million capital required

    Puspakom will no longer be the only party providing vehicle inspection services from next year, transport minister Anthony Loke said last week, and the transport minister has revealed the latest guidelines which vehicle inspection service providers will required to adhere to, The Star has reported.

    Each vehicle inspection service provider will initially be allowed to to operate in two locations, which will be one in an urban area, and one in a rural area. The service provider is then required to develop and operate both locations at the same time, with the list of locations to be provided at a stakeholder consultation session on April 23, Loke said.

    “With this, the ultimate goal will be to ensure every state and possibly area has at least one VISP to serve both urban and rural communities,” the transport minister said, adding that the vehicle inspection service providers will be required to have at least RM10 million in paid-up capital and RM5 million in working capital to ensure the sustainability of the business.

    Vehicle inspection service providers to be allocated urban, rural locations; RM15 million capital required

    Upon approval, qualified service providers will be given interim approval of up to 24 months, and in that time the companies area required to fully develop and set up the inspection centres at their allocated locations, Loke said.

    “Any party found to have failed to complete all the preparation processes within this period of time will have the interim approval revoked and will not be granted a licence. Those who succeed will be granted a licence to carry out vehicle inspections… for a maximum period of up to 10 years, with the ability to continue for another period to be determined later,” he added.

    However, the vehicle inspection service providers will not be allowed to offer repair or modification services, sales of spare parts or vehicles, or any transaction related to these services, Loke said.

     
  • JPJ issues new recall list – Toyota Sienta, XV70 Camry, Kia Sportage SL affected, check with your dealer!

    JPJ issues new recall list – Toyota Sienta, XV70 Camry, Kia Sportage SL affected, check with your dealer!

    The Road Transport Department (JPJ) has issued a new list of recalls for cars sold in Malaysia on its Facebook page. This is the fourth such list and it includes a few new vehicles being called back in addition to several we’ve already reported on.

    We’ll start with UMW Toyota Motor, which is recalling 6,116 units of the Sienta manufactured between 2016 and 2019 and 3,361 units of the XV70 Camry 2.5V manufactured between 2021 and 2023. The list also includes the 2022 to 2023 Vios (11,769 units) and Veloz (10,168 units) recall from earlier in the year over the front shock absorber nuts.

    No details on the new recalls have been released just yet, but the Sienta recall is almost certainly related to the one in Indonesia, involving an issue with a garnish pillar clip on the A-pillar. This may cause a water leakage that affects the electrical system, particularly the electric sliding doors which may open unintentionally, increasing the risk of an accident.

    Click to enlarge

    Next up, Kia distributor Dinamikjaya Motors is recalling 1,833 units of the third-generation (SL) Sportage manufactured from 2013 to 2015. A source at parent company Bermaz told us that the issue is related to the electrical heater and will involve an inspection of said heater and a software update for the air-conditioning system.

    As for Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM), its recall of the 2021 to 2024 Golf Mk8 (1,061 units), 2020 to 2023 Arteon (1,307 units) and 2019 to 2022 Passat B8 (1,256 units) involves improperly-placed heat shielding and was also previously reported.

    We have reached out to the companies involved in the recalls for more information and will update this post as we get them.

     
  • Hari Raya Aidilfitri 2024 toll-free travel on April 8-9

    Hari Raya Aidilfitri 2024 toll-free travel on April 8-9

    The works ministry has announced that highway travel will be toll-free for two days, April 8 and 9, 2024, in conjunction with Hari Raya Aidilfitri celebrations.

    This was announced by works minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi, who said the decision was made during a Cabinet meeting in February. He said the toll exemption will be implemented from 12.01 am on Monday, April 8 until 11.59 pm on Tuesday, April 9.

    The toll fare waiver on these two dates will apply only to Class 1 vehicles (private vehicles) at all toll plazas, except those at national borders, namely the Tol Bangunan Sultan Iskandar (BSI) and the Plaza Tol Tanjung Kupang (Linkedua – Second Link).

    To make the most of toll-free travel, highway users are advised to plan their travels and take heed of the travel time advisories (TTAs) that will be released, as well as to be sufficiently rested and to have enough credit balance in one’s Touch ‘n Go cards and eWallets.

     
  • Proton EV in 2025 – all-new model being co-developed with Geely, not a rebadge of existing car: Roslan

    Proton EV in 2025 – all-new model being co-developed with Geely, not a rebadge of existing car: Roslan

    National carmaker Proton is expecting to release its electric vehicle model in 2025, and this will be an all-new model that is co-developed by Proton and Geely, and it will not be a rebadged version of an existing model, Proton deputy CEO Roslan Abdullah has said.

    The upcoming, fully electric model from this joint development may spawn both a Geely version as well as a Proton version. This has completed its design and prototype stages, and it is currently undergoing testing, Roslan said. As for the segment of the EV, “We will let you know closer to the time of its launch,” the deputy CEO said, also not revealing the upcoming model’s bodystyle.

    There will likely be a staggered release of announcements regarding Proton’s EV model, and the deputy CEO cites the smart brand’s introduction as an example, where announcements were made for the start of production, opening of bookings, and the like.

    Proton EV in 2025 – all-new model being co-developed with Geely, not a rebadge of existing car: Roslan

    In this EV model’s joint development with Geely, Proton is contributing to the model’s R&D with input for its use in the Malaysian environment, Roslan said. Given the co-development between the two companies, there could be both a Geely version as well as a Proton version, the former being for other markets.

    Regardless of the brand, all versions of the upcoming co-developed EV will initially be manufactured in China because manufacturing this model in Malaysia will require new facilities, said Roslan.

    “The Malaysian government wants to expedite the release of this EV model, and the government currently still offers tax exemptions on fully imported (CBU) EVs, and at the same time we are planning for CKD local assembly,” Roslan added.

    Proton EV in 2025 – all-new model being co-developed with Geely, not a rebadge of existing car: Roslan

    On the subject of China-based EV manufacturers which are offering products that are increasingly competitively priced in Malaysia, Proton is still evaluating pricing for this upcoming EV model.

    “There needs to be a balance between battery range and price. There are many aspects which need evaluation, but we will offer the model at the best possible price. Our EV will be focused on affordability as well as functionality and practicality,” the Proton deputy CEO said.

    The latest news from the national carmaker comes after its CEO, Li Chunrong stated that the carmaker is set to launch its own-brand EV “very soon”, echoing what Proton chairman Datuk Seri Syed Faisal Albar said during the launch of the Proton S70 last November. This is a step on from its previous target of releasing its EV by 2027.

     
  • RON97 petrol price March 2024 week five update – premium fuel price still unchanged; RM3.47 per litre

    RON97 petrol price March 2024 week five update – premium fuel price still unchanged; RM3.47 per litre

    It’s Wednesday, which means it is once again time for the weekly fuel price update in Malaysia, as the ministry of finance has announced the retail prices of fuels for the coming week of 28 March to April 3, 2023.

    No change, once again for the price of RON 97 petrol, which continues at its rate of RM3.47 per litre where it has been last week. Meanwhile, RON 95 petrol that is subsidised continues at its ceiling price of RM2.05 per litre as set by the Malaysian government in February 2021.

    Similarly the prices of diesel fuels remain unchanged, with the Euro 5 B10 and B20 blends priced at RM2.15 per litre, while Euro 5 B7 is priced 20 sen more per litre, also unchanged at RM2.35 per litre.

    These fuel prices will take effect from midnight tonight until Wednesday, March 27, 2024, when the next set of fuel price updates will be announced. This is the 13th edition of the weekly fuel pricing format for this year, and the 272nd in total since the format’s introduction at the start of 2019.

     
 
 
 

Latest Fuel Prices

PETROL
RON 95 RM2.05 (0.00)
RON 97 RM3.47 (0.00)
RON 100 RM5.00
VPR RM6.00
DIESEL
EURO 5 B10 RM2.15 (0.00)
EURO 5 B7 RM2.35 (0.00)
Last Updated Mar 28, 2024

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