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  • 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.

     
  • PLUS to activate 18 SmartLanes on NSE for Hari Raya Aidilfitri period – additional signage to denote them

    PLUS to activate 18 SmartLanes on NSE for Hari Raya Aidilfitri period – additional signage to denote them

    PLUS Malaysia has announced that it will activate more SmartLanes to accommodate the increase in traffic during the upcoming Hari Raya Aidilfitri holidays.

    The highway concessionaire said that it will have 18 SmartLanes in place on the North-South Expressway (NSE) during the festive period, of which three will be in the northern region, nine in the central region and six in the southern region, with their locations specifically listed in the images below.

    PLUS has made several improvements In order to make the presence of these SmartLanes clearer to motorists. These include the addition of signages to denote these lanes, with the first being placed one km before the opening of the SmartLane. This will be followed by another sign 500 metres before, as well as a signboard every 500 metres thereafter and a signboard. to denote the end of the SmartLane.

    PLUS to activate 18 SmartLanes on NSE for Hari Raya Aidilfitri period – additional signage to denote them


    Click to enlarge.

    Additionally, a flashing green light on the SmartLane route will be activated to denote that the lane can be used. The operating hours vary according to location and traffic conditions, so motorists are advised to take note of this and refer to the schedule.

    At the same time, PLUS also advised the public to utilise its MyPLUS-TTA application to schedule the most optimal time to travel between April 4 to 15.

     
  • Bangkok 2024: Mazda MX-30 R-EV showcased – rotary range extender EV; no plans for Malaysia launch

    Bangkok 2024: Mazda MX-30 R-EV showcased – rotary range extender EV; no plans for Malaysia launch

    Mazda Thailand chose this year’s Bangkok International Motor Show (BIMS) to showcase the MX-30 R-EV, which is a version of the brand’s first mass-production electric vehicle (EV) with a rotary range extender.

    Revealed globally in January last year, the rotary engine (codenamed 8C) in the MX-30 R-EV has a capacity of 830 cc and is rated at 75 PS (74 hp or 55 kW) and 116 Nm of torque. The 8C (spot the new exterior badges) is Mazda’s first production rotary engine since 2012 and features side intake and exhaust ports like the Renesis unit in the RX-8, but with direct fuel injection, an aluminium rotor housing and thicker apex seals of 2.5 mm.

    Located under the bonnet, the engine’s sole purpose is to generate electricity to charge an underfloor-mounted lithium-ion battery that has an energy capacity of 17.8 kWh. For those keeping track, the regular MX-30’s battery capacity is higher at 35.5 kWh.

    With the smaller battery pack, the MX-30 R-EV will provide a combined all-electric range of just 85 km following the WLTP standard, which is a lot less than the non-range extender model that offers 200 km. Taking into account the rotary range extender and 50-litre fuel tank, the maximum possible range is claimed to be around 600 km or more.

    Bangkok 2024: Mazda MX-30 R-EV showcased – rotary range extender EV; no plans for Malaysia launch

    Mazda says the all-electric range is sufficient for daily driving, with the range extender providing assurance if owners need to travel further. As for charging, the smaller battery means it takes just 50 minutes to fully charge the battery at a max AC input of 11 kW.

    There’s also DC fast charging at up to 36 kW to get the battery from a 20-80% state of charge in 25 minutes. A vehicle-to-load (V2L) function with an output 1.5 kW is also present to power devices.

    Aside from the range extender element, smaller battery and revised charging capacities, the MX-30 R-EV also gets a different electric motor to the drive the front wheels. Rated at 170 PS (168 hp or 125 kW) and 260 Nm, it has more horsepower but less torque when compared to the normal MX-30’s 145 PS (143 hp or 107 kW) and 271 Nm.

    At 1,778 kg, the MX-30 R-EV also weighs about 130 kg more than the non-range extender version, although its higher horsepower count does see the 0-100 km/h time drop to 9.1 seconds instead of 9.7 seconds – the top speed stays capped at 140 km/h.

    According to Mazda Thailand, the Japanese carmaker is adopting a multi-solution approach to achieving carbon neutrality, and the MX-30 R-EV represents one of the solutions, one that also brings back the iconic rotary engine.

    The company has no plans to sell the MX-30 R-EV in Thailand for now. In fact, the regular MX-30 isn’t even sold there, unlike Malaysia that welcomed the EV back in June 2022. We’ve checked with Bermaz Motor and were told it currently has no plans to bring in the MX-30 R-EV for now.

     
  • Bangkok 2024: Ford Ranger Wildtrak V6 – 250 PS/600 Nm 3.0L 6-cylinder turbodiesel; RM197k in Thailand

    Bangkok 2024: Ford Ranger Wildtrak V6 – 250 PS/600 Nm 3.0L 6-cylinder turbodiesel; RM197k in Thailand

    Amidst the dominating presence of Chinese electric vehicles at the 2024 Bangkok International Motor Show, the pick-up truck segment remains a staple of the industry in this region, and Ford’s representation here is with the Ford Ranger which arrives at the show in Wildtrak V6 guise.

    This packs the same powertrain as that of the Australian-market Ranger Platinum that went on sale Down Under at the end of 2022, which, as the name suggests, is a 3.0L turbodiesel V6 producing 250 PS at 3,250 rpm and 600 Nm of torque from 1,750 rpm to 2,250 rpm.

    This is linked to a driveline consisting of a 10-speed automatic gearbox and an electronically controlled four-wheel-drive system with active centre differential and locking rear differential, and six driving modes are offered – Normal, Eco (rear-wheel-drive), Tow/Haul, Slippery, Mud/Ruts, and Sand.

    Exterior kit on the Ranger Wiltrak V6 includes adaptive matrix LED headlamps with automatic high beam, LED tail lamps and fog lamps, side steps, a sports bar and roof rails, cargo tray with 12-volt and 230-volt power sockets, lift-assist tailgate, V6 badging on the side vents, and 20-inch two-tone alloy wheels on 255/65 tyres.

    Inside the Ranger Wildtrak V6, the driver and front passenger get eight-way electrically adjustable seats in synthetic leather upholstery, automatic dual-zone air-conditioning for the front row and air-conditioning for the second row, and a 12.4-inch TFT digital instrument display.

    Infotainment comes courtesy of a multi-touch 12-inch portrait-oriented touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support, Bluetooth connectivity, SYNC 4A voice command, four USB ports, a wireless phone charger and a six-speaker audio system.

    In Thailand, the Ford Ranger Wildtrak V6 is on sale for 1,519,000 baht (RM197,118), according to Headlight Magazine. Meanwhile for Malaysia, there is yet to be a current Ranger variant with this 3.0L V6 turbodiesel engine.

    The Ranger Wildtrak variant that is on sale in Malaysia gets the 2.0 litre four-cylinder twin-turbo diesel unit, and is sold from RM170,888 OTR without insurance in Peninsular Malaysia, according to the Ford Malaysia website. If the Ford Ranger Wildtrak V6 does come to Malaysia, how much do you think it will cost?

     
  • Toyota fully acquires Primearth EV Energy from Panasonic, to rename company as Toyota Battery

    Toyota fully acquires Primearth EV Energy from Panasonic, to rename company as Toyota Battery

    Earlier this month, Toyota announced that it had agreed with Panasonic to make affiliated company Primearth EV Energy (PEVE) a wholly-owned subsidiary in order to strengthen its capabilities in mass-producing automotive batteries.

    That acquisition has now been completed, and the automaker says that it intends to change the PEVE company name to Toyota Battery from October 1 this year. Toyota said that the new company name embodies its determination to leverage the technology and skills honed since PEVE’s establishment in 1996 to broaden its scope of battery manufacturing.

    In addition to manufacturing batteries for hybrid vehicles, Toyota said it plans to have PEVE begin producing batteries for battery EVs and plug-in hybrids. The company said the shift into mass-producing a wide variety of electric vehicle batteries will enable it to respond flexibly to growing battery demand. The company’s headquarters will remain in Kosei city, Shizuoka prefecture.

    When the company was originally established, it was known as Panasonic EV Energy, and Toyota only had a 40% share in it (Panasonic had the other 60%), but by 2005 Toyota had increased its share in the company to 60%, and by 2010, the automaker further increased its share in the company, which was then renamed Primearth, to 80.5%.

    Primearth isn’t the only occasion that Toyota and Panasonic have cooperated on battery development. In 2020, both companies announced the establishment of Prime Planet Energy & Solutions, a joint venture specialising in automotive prismatic lithium-ion batteries.

     
  • Bangkok 2024: Lotus Emeya EV – Taycan rival with 905 hp/985 Nm, 0-100 km/h in 2.78 secs, priced fr. RM778k

    Bangkok 2024: Lotus Emeya EV – Taycan rival with 905 hp/985 Nm, 0-100 km/h in 2.78 secs, priced fr. RM778k

    Six months after its global debut in New York City, and just weeks after it completed its final validation testing, the Lotus Emeya has arrived in Southeast Asia, with the four-door grand tourer – which is set to go up against the likes of the Porsche Taycan and Audi e-Tron GT – making its regional debut in Thailand at the ongoing 45th Bangkok International Motor Show.

    Two power output configurations of the Type 133, which sits as the flagship model in Hethel’s line-up of luxury performance EVs, will be sold in the Kingdom, similar to China, where ‘+’ prefix variants are available. The first is the Emeya S, with prices starting from 5,990,000 baht (RM777,600), and the second is the range-topping Emeya R, for which the price starts from 6,890,000 baht (RM895,500).

    In its standard guise, the Emeya comes as a five-seater, but there’s a four-seat option, which is the presentation seen on the display R variant in Bangkok. As highlighted before, much of the Emeya’s technical specs follows that seen on the Eletre, with a blueprint that includes a full-time all-wheel drive with twin motors and Lotus’ ICC intelligent torque distribution system.

    Bangkok 2024: Lotus Emeya EV – Taycan rival with 905 hp/985 Nm, 0-100 km/h in 2.78 secs, priced fr. RM778k

    On the Emeya S, the electric powertrain offers 603 hp (612 PS, or 450 kW) and 710, which is good enough to get the hyper GT from standstill to 100 km/h in 4.15 seconds and on to a top speed of 250 km/h. As for the Emeya R, its set-up delivers 905 hp (918 PS, or 675 kW) and 985 Nm of twist. This obviously brings the sprint time down, in this case to 2.78 seconds, while top speed increases marginally to 256 km/h.

    Measuring in at 5,139 mm long, 2,241 mm wideth (including the side-view cameras), and 1,459 mm tall, with a 3,069 mm-long wheelbase, the Emeya sits on Lotus’ Electric Premium Architecture (EPA), which is also used for the Eletre, and as such features the same 800V architecture as that seen on the SUV.

    At its global launch, the battery specifications quoted a 102 kWh capacity unit, which is less than the 112 kWh unit on the Eletre. This follows into the production examples, with a 102 kWh ternary NMC battery providing the necessary juice for the motors. Maximum travel distance per full charge is quoted as 610 km (WLTP standard) for the Emeya S, while the higher output Emeya R can cover up to 485 km (again, WLTP) on a single charge.

    In terms of charging, the car has a 22 kW OBC, with which it takes 5.8 hours to get the battery fully charged from zero via the AC route. As for DC charging, the numbers don’t deviate from that stated at the global launch – at the maximum rate of 350 kW, it takes 18 minutes to get the battery from a 10% to 80% state-of-charge.

    Styilng-wise, aside from the distinct dual-tier matrix LED headlight array as opposed to the Eletre’s single strip, the front end of the GT features aerodynamic elements as seen on the Eletre, including the active front grille that debuted on the SUV. Also present is an active air lip, which supports increasing downforce at high speeds.

    The Emeya, which rides on 22-inch wheels with 265/35 front and 305/30 rear tyres, also features an active rear diffuser and an active dual-layer rear spoiler. The latter is 280 mm wide, which is 100 mm wider than the Eletre’s unit, and offers a net downforce of more than 215 kg. Other mechanical highlights include an electronically-controlled air suspension system similar to the Eletre.

    Inside, the cabin largely mirrors the presentation seen on the SUV, including the large central floating full HD OLED screen and a 15-speaker KEF audio system (higher end options have up to 23 speakers), complete with Dolby Atmos-enabled 3D surround sound.

    Aside from PVD aluminium, Alcantara, PU ultrafabrics and Nappa leather, the Emeya also utilises a new luxury thread that repurposes cotton scraps from the fashion and garment industries. Utilised for the cabin upholstery, the company says that the new fibre doesn’t just reduce the material carbon footprint, but offers weight savings as well compared to leather.

    No word yet on when the Emeya will make its way here to Malaysia, but based on that mentioned last year during the car’s debut, local buyers can expect the first orders of the EV, which is built at the Lotus manufacturing plant in Wuhan, to arrive here sometime in late 2024.

    GALLERY: Lotus Emeya R at BIMS 2024

     
  • Bangkok 2024: BYD Atto 3 EV shown – darker interior, bigger screen, better tyres, cheaper price!

    Bangkok 2024: BYD Atto 3 EV shown – darker interior, bigger screen, better tyres, cheaper price!

    Having received an update for the 2024 model year in Thailand, the BYD Atto 3 has been displayed at the 2024 Bangkok International Motor Show in the kingdom, where the electric crossover is sold in three variants, starting from the Standard Range Dynamic at 899,900 baht (RM116,803), through the Standard Range Premium at 949,900 baht (RM123,293), to the Extended Range Premium at 1,049,900 baht (RM136,273).

    The 2024 model went on sale in March this year with two variants to begin with – the Standard Range Dynamic and the Standard Range Premium – while the third, the Extended Range Premium, is the latest addition to the line-up.

    Starting with the exterior, specification differences for the 2024 model year of the Atto 3 are comprised of the D-pillar exterior trim that is now finished in black (previously silver), and the 18-inch wheels on the Extended Range get upgraded to Continental tyres which grow slightly in width from 215/55 to 235/50, while the Standard Range continues with 17-inch units, albeit in a new design.

    At the rear, the outgoing ‘Build Your Dreams’ script makes way for a simplified BYD logo, while a new exterior colour – Quantum Black – is added.

    Bangkok 2024: BYD Atto 3 EV shown – darker interior, bigger screen, better tyres, cheaper price!

    The Extended Range variant with the 60.48 kWh battery gets an increase in DC charging capability to 88 kW (up from 80 kW), while AC charging remains at 7 kW. For the Standard Range variants with the 50.25 kWh battery, DC charging of up to 70 kW is supported, while AC charging capability is also 7 kW.

    The Standard Range variant is quoted to have a battery range of up to 410 km (NEDC), while the Extended Range has up to 480 km of range (NEDC). Powertrain for Standard Range and Extended Range variants continue to be a single motor driving the front wheels, producing 204 PS and 310 Nm of torque. The 0-100 km/h acceleration benchmark is elapsed in 7.3 seconds.

    Further system updates to the EV crossover include daytime running lights which switch off automatically when the transmission is in Park, and the vehicle now starts when the brake pedal is depressed, instead of using the push-button start method.

    Inside the 2024 Atto 3, the infotainment screen gets upsized from 12.8 inches to 15.6 inches (the same as that in the Seal), and a new karaoke function can be optioned, with microphones sold separately. Upholstery for the Atto 3 has also been updated, now featuring a black-blue upholstery scheme with red contrast trim, as seen on the display vehicle at BIMS 2024; the blue-and-white upholstery continues to be available, but with black accents.

    Standard kit on the 2024 Atto 3 Standard Range Dynamic for Thailand features LED headlamps, automatic high beam with follow-me-home function, LED DRLs and full LED tail lamps with sequential turn signals, panoramic sunroof, and defogger-equipped side mirrors.

    The 2024 BYD Atto 3 EV goes on sale in Thailand in three variants – the Standard Range Dynamic at 899,900 baht (RM116,803), the Standard Range Premium at 949,900 baht (RM123,293), and the Extended Range Premium at 1,049,900 baht (RM136,273).

     
  • Triumph Trident Triple Tribute Special Edition unveiled

    Triumph Trident Triple Tribute Special Edition unveiled

    Commemorating one of its famous racing motorcycles, the 2024 Triumph Trident Triple Tribute Special Edition is priced at 7,895 pounds sterling (RM47,096) in the UK. The Triple Tribute is based on the Triumph Trident 660 (RM43,900 in Malaysia).

    This special edition motorcycle is a tribute to the most famous Triumph Trident in the Hinckley firm’s history, ‘Slippery Sam’. That particular Trident is notable for being the only motorcycle ever to win five Tourist Trophy (TT) production races in five consecutive years, from 1971 to 1975.

    Setting the Triple Tribute apart from the standard model Trident 660 is a white, blue and red ‘Union Jack’ paint scheme with colour-matched fly screen and belly pan. The colour-matching continues to the front mudguard, while the racing number ’67’ adorns the tank along with a ‘Triple Tribute’ decal.

    Otherwise no other changes to the Trident 660, with power coming from a 660 cc, liquid-cooled DOHC inline-triple with Euro 5 compliance. Power is rated at 81 PS at 10,250 rpm with 64 Nm of torque at 6,250 rpm, going to the rear wheel via a six-speed gearbox and chain final drive with the Triple Tribute coming with an up-and-down quickshifter as standard equipment.

    The Trident 660 has a seat height of 805 mm and a claimed wet weight of 189 kg with 14-litres of fuel in the tank. Brand name equipment is used extensively on the Trident 660 despite its intended design target of being a budget conscious bike for the beginner rider.

    Triumph Trident Triple Tribute Special Edition unveiled

    Nissin supplies the braking with a twin two-piston callipers in front on 310 mm brake discs and a single-piston calliper with 255 mm calliper on the rear wheel. The Trident 660 comes with two-channel ABS and Michelin Road 5 tyres in 120/70-17 and 180/55-17 sizes in the standard equipment list.

    Suspension is done by Showa with 41 mm diameter upside-down separate function forks (SFF) and a preload-adjustable RSU monoshock in the rear. Suspension travel is 120 mm in front and 135 mm at the back.

     
  • 2024 MG ZS EV in Malaysia – bargain B-segment EV SUV to rival BYD Atto 3, 176 PS, 320 km range, RM126k

    2024 MG ZS EV in Malaysia – bargain B-segment EV SUV to rival BYD Atto 3, 176 PS, 320 km range, RM126k

    Aside from the MG4, SAIC Motor Malaysia has also launched the MG ZS EV, an electric B-segment SUV that’s poised to provide a bargain-priced competitor to the BYD Atto 3. It’s been a long time coming – the car was first spotted back in 2020, but it’s finally here, entering a hotly-contested market segment.

    The MG ZS EV is available in just a single variant, priced at RM125,999 nett (excluding on-the-road costs). As per the MG4, this includes a seven-year/150,000 km warranty and an eight-year/180,000 km battery warranty, plus a one-for-one battery replacement if the battery health drops below 70% during the warranty period. For a limited time, you’ll get a free 7 kW AC wallbox charger worth RM4,600

    Power is derived from a single electric motor at the front that produces 176 PS (130 kW) and 280 Nm of torque, getting the car from zero to 100 km/h in eight seconds flat. The lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery is fairly small at 51.1 kWh, resulting in a range of just 320 km on the WLTP cycle.

    2024 MG ZS EV in Malaysia – bargain B-segment EV SUV to rival BYD Atto 3, 176 PS, 320 km range, RM126k

    In terms of charging, the ZS EV can support just 50 kW of DC fast charging, taking 54 minutes to charge the battery from 10 to 80%. A 7 kW AC wallbox charger, on the other hand, provides a full charge in seven hours.

    The MG ZS is not a new car, having been revealed back in 2017, the electric version being shown the following year. It’s a size smaller than other electric SUVs like the Atto 3 and the Chery Omoda E5 – measuring 4,323 mm long, 1,809 mm wide and 1,649 mm tall, it’s around 100 mm shorter than those two, while its wheelbase measures 2,581 mm. Despite the smaller size and lower price, the ZS EV uses a relatively sophisticated multilink rear suspension setup instead of a rudimentary torsion beam.

    2024 MG ZS EV in Malaysia – bargain B-segment EV SUV to rival BYD Atto 3, 176 PS, 320 km range, RM126k

    This is the facelifted model, first seen in 2021, which adds slimmer and sharper projector LED headlights with arrow-shaped daytime running lights, along with a grille-less front end with the charging port moved from the centre to the driver’s side. The arrow graphic is repeated in the revised LED taillights, while the rear bumper has been cleaned up with a greater proportion of body colour.

    Inside, the ZS EV has shades of Mk6 Volkswagen Golf, particularly in its businesslike centre console and steering wheel controls. The tech has been modernised with a 12.3-inch digital instrument display and a 10.1-inch infotainment touchscreen, replete with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto; there’s also a Qi wireless charger and a rotary gear selector.

    2024 MG ZS EV in Malaysia – bargain B-segment EV SUV to rival BYD Atto 3, 176 PS, 320 km range, RM126k

    Click to enlarge

    Standard kit includes 17-inch two-tone alloy wheels, keyless entry, push-button start, auto lights and wipers, six-way power-adjustable front seats, leather upholstery, four speakers, a 360-degree camera system, six speakers and stability control.

    In terms of driver assists, the ZS EV comes with autonomous emergency braking, adaptive cruise control with stop and go, lane centring assist, blind spot monitoring, rear cross traffic alert and auto high beam.

     
  • 2024 MG4 EV launched in Malaysia – BYD Dolphin rival with up to 435 PS, 520 km range, RM104k to RM159k

    2024 MG4 EV launched in Malaysia – BYD Dolphin rival with up to 435 PS, 520 km range, RM104k to RM159k

    Previewed last month, the MG4 has now been officially launched in Malaysia, marking the formal arrival of new principal SAIC Motor Malaysia. The new electric hatchback has its sights set on dominating the lower end of the EV market, and to do that it will have to beat the BYD Dolphin at its own game.

    It’s certainly poised to do that, at least where price is concerned. The range starts at RM103,999 for the base Standard model, rising up to RM128,999 for the Lux and RM148,999 for the Lux Extended with the larger battery. Unique to the MG4 is a high-performance XPower variant that tops out at RM158,999.

    All prices are nett (excluding on-the-road costs) and include an impressive seven-year/150,000 km warranty and an eight-year/180,000 km warranty. You’ll also get a one-for-one battery swap if the battery’s health drops below 70% during the warranty period.

    2024 MG4 EV launched in Malaysia – BYD Dolphin rival with up to 435 PS, 520 km range, RM104k to RM159k

    For a limited time, the Standard model will come with a 7 kW AC wallbox charger including installation, worth RM4,600, while the Lux version gets an 11 kW wallbox worth RM5,200. Meanwhile, the Lux Extended and XPower come with RM1,000 worth of free charging credits for use on the DC Handal and JomCharge networks.

    The cooking (non-XPower) models are all rear-wheel drive, but with progressive higher outputs and battery capacities. The Standard produces 170 PS (125 kW) and 250 Nm of torque, enabling it to get from zero to 100 km/h in 7.5 seconds, while its 51 kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery delivers a respectable 350 km of range on the WLTP cycle.

    Moving up one rung on the ladder, the Lux’s motor has been retuned for more power – 203 PS (150 kW) to be exact – yet despite this, it accelerates slightly slower to 100 km/h, taking 7.7 seconds. That might be because of the heavier 64 kWh nickel manganese cobalt (NMC) battery that provides a longer 435 km range.

    2024 MG4 EV launched in Malaysia – BYD Dolphin rival with up to 435 PS, 520 km range, RM104k to RM159k

    You can get even more range by going with the Lux Extended Range, which bumps the NMC battery to 77 kWh and can go up to 520 km on a single charge. You also get higher outputs of 245 PS (180 kW) and 350 Nm, shaving more than a second off the century sprint to 6.1 seconds.

    But if all you want to do is to go fast, then you’ll have to turn to the XPower, bringing back an evocative name from the 2000s. This one has dual motors that produce 435 PS (320 kW) and 600 Nm, flinging the car to 100 km/h in 3.8 seconds. It has the middling 64 kWh battery, but because of the increased power, the range is quite a bit shorter than the Lux’s at 385 km.

    In terms of charging, the MG4 Standard supports up to 117 kW of DC fast charging, taking 37 minutes to charge from 10 to 80%. The other variants can accept up to 135 kW, with charging times of 26 minutes for the Lux and XPower and 38 minutes for the Lux Extended.

    MG4 XPower

    As for AC charging, a 7 kW wallbox will provide a full charge in eight hours for the Standard, 8.5 hours for the Lux and XPower and ten hours for the Lux Extended. The Lux, Lux Extended and XPower models come with an 11 kW onboard charger, slashing the full charge times to 5.1 hours for the Lux and XPower and 6.2 hours for the Lux Extended.

    Developed with the European market in mind, the MG4 is classified as a C-segment hatchback, but thanks to the more compact proportions afforded by the dedicated EV platform, it’s smaller than even the Honda City Hatchback. It measures 4,287 mm long, 1,836 mm wide and 1,504 mm tall, and has a generous 2,705 mm wheelbase. Against the Dolphin, the MG4 is three millimetres shorter and 66 mm lower but 66 mm wider, while its wheelbase is just five millimetres longer.

    The lower and wider stance gives the MG4 a far more assertive look compared to the BYD, coupled with a sharp design language that includes slim headlights, large air intakes, prominent rear haunches (indicating the car’s rear bias) and blacked-out D-pillars for a floating roof look.

    As standard, you get LED projector headlights and 17-inch aero-optimised alloy wheels, with the Lux and Lux Extended gaining more intricate reflector headlights, an active grille shutter, a black roof and larger 18-inch aero alloys.

    At the back, there’s an X-shaped rear LED taillight bar with an illuminated criss-cross pattern, but the lit-up centre section is only found on the Lux and Lux Extended. Those models also get a split tailgate spoiler in place of the Standard’s smaller lip spoiler mounted lower down.

    Step inside and you’ll find a no-frills cabin with a slim horizontal dashboard and a floating centre console housing the rotary gear selector. The freestanding displays consist of a seven-inch digital instrument cluster and a 10.25-inch centre touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. There are also five drive modes (Standard, Sport, Eco, Snow and Custom) and four settings for the regenerative braking.

    2024 MG4 EV launched in Malaysia – BYD Dolphin rival with up to 435 PS, 520 km range, RM104k to RM159k

    Behind the (manual) tailgate sits a 398 litre boot, expandable to 1,177 litres with the 60:40-split rear seats folded. The MG4 is also unique in this price range as it comes with smartphone connectvity via the iSmart app, which lets you monitor the charging status, set charging schedules and lock and unlock the car remotely.

    Starting with the Standard model, standard kit includes keyless entry, push-button start, single-zone automatic climate control, manual fabric seats, a seven-inch digital instrument display, a 10.25-inch infotainment touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, four speakers and a reverse camera. The MG4 also features a very powerful vehicle-to-load (V2L) function with an output of 6 kW.

    Moving up to the Lux model nets you privacy glass, power-folding door mirrors, a heated steering wheel and front seats, a six-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, faux leather upholstery, an auto-dimming rear-view mirror, a Qi wireless charger, a 360-degree camera system, six speakers and a dual-level boot floor. The Lux Extended adds only the larger battery, with no change to the kit list.

    2024 MG4 EV launched in Malaysia – BYD Dolphin rival with up to 435 PS, 520 km range, RM104k to RM159k2024 MG4 EV launched in Malaysia – BYD Dolphin rival with up to 435 PS, 520 km range, RM104k to RM159k

    Click to enlarge

    The XPower is differentiated by sporty 18-inch alloys, an exclusive Racing Green matte paint option and what appear to be orange brake callipers, but are actually just covers over the (enlarged) standard brakes.

    Inside, there’s black Alcantara upholstery and metal sports pedals; you also get a track mode display and a launch control function. The XPower also benefits from stiffer springs and anti-roll bars and retuned dampers and steering for a sportier drive.

    Safety-wise, the MG4 comes with six airbags, stability control and driver assists that include autonomous emergency braking, adaptive cruise control with stop and go, lane centring assist, a driver attention alert and auto high beam. All but the base Standard also get blind spot monitoring with collision prevention, rear cross traffic alert and a door opening warning.


    GALLERY: MG4 Standard in Malaysia
    GALLERY: MG4 Lux in Malaysia
    GALLERY: MG4 Lux Extended in Malaysia
    GALLERY: MG4 XPower in Malaysia

     
  • MOSTI exploring hydrogen tech in mobility sector

    MOSTI exploring hydrogen tech in mobility sector

    The ministry of science, technology and innovation (MOSTI) is exploring the potential use of hydrogen technology, particularly in the mobility sector, the ministry has said in a statement. The ministry it will hold discussions with relevant ministries and agencies to raise the adoption level of hydrogen technology, further creating a group of end-users in Malaysia, it added.

    A demonstration session was held on the premises of the ministry of investment, trade and industry (MITI), which was attended by economy minister Rafizi Ramli, minister of natural resources and sustainability Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad, and minister of investment, trade and industry Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz.

    “The purpose of this session is to share the potential of hydrogen technology, especially in the mobility sector. The country’s commitment is to achieve net zero carbon emissions as early as 2050, [which] is in line with the objectives outlined in the Hydrogen Economy and Technology Roadmap (HETR), the statement by MOSTI read.

    The ministry of science, technology and innovation also expects to partner with the private sector for the construction of a mobile hydrogen refuelling station, which will highlight the abilities and expertise of local talent in leading the hydrogen economy, it said.

    Last September, MOSTI said that hydrogen refuelling stations as well as hydrogen public buses are expected to be operational in Peninsular Malaysia this year, where multiple hydrogen vehicles will be deployed for trial runs once the first hydrogen refuelling station is operational, it said at the time.

    Sarawak became home to the first four units of the second-generation Mirai hydrogen fuel-cell vehicle in Malaysia in January 2023, when UMW Toyota Motor handed over four units of the hydrogen FCEV to SEDC Energy and one unit to the premier of Sarawak, Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg.

     
  • Proactive steps being taken to ease traffic congestion during Hari Raya Aidilfitri period – works minister

    Proactive steps being taken to ease traffic congestion during Hari Raya Aidilfitri period – works minister

    The works ministry says it has put in place proactive measures to minimise congestion on highways and smoothen traffic flow in preparation for the upcoming Hari Raya Aidilfitri celebrations.

    According to works minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi, some of the steps being carried out by the Malaysian Highway Authority (LLM) to ease traffic congestion on highways include stopping maintenance works, activating Smart Lanes and providing the MyPLUS-TTA (travel time advisory) application.

    “Maintenance works involving the closure of lanes will be temporarily halted during the festive holiday period from April 1-17. Only emergency work will be permitted,” he said.

    Proactive steps being taken to ease traffic congestion during Hari Raya Aidilfitri period – works minister

    Meanwhile, upgrading works such as the installation of new signboards will be completed no later than April 7, Bernama reports. He added that road marking works to add lanes at specific locations on the PLUS highway have also been carried out to increase existing capacity.

    “We will also open many toll transaction lanes, including implementing layered toll collection at toll plazas, besides ensuring that patrol teams and cranes or tow trucks are on standby at accident-prone spots,” he said.

    “To address the congestion at the Gombak Toll Plaza on the Kuala Lumpur-Karak Highway, the toll collection lanes will be rearranged to facilitate payment processes during the Aidilfitri holidays,” he added.

     
  • Bangkok 2024: Lexus LBX – 1.5L hybrid baby SUV is smaller than UX, Merc GLA, BMW X1; from RM290k

    Bangkok 2024: Lexus LBX – 1.5L hybrid baby SUV is smaller than UX, Merc GLA, BMW X1; from RM290k

    This tiny thing can’t be a Lexus, can it? It even looks a bit like the Perodua Ativa! The Lexus LBX is the premium brand’s smallest car yet, and it is very, very compact. The LBX has just been launched at the 2024 Bangkok International Motor Show for the Thai market at 2.229 million baht (RM290,222) for the Luxury and 2.39 million baht (RM311,184) for the Premium.

    The baby Lexus is built on the GA-B version of the Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA) platform, which is also used by the Toyota Aqua, Aygo X as well as the European-market Yaris and Yaris Cross. The LBX uses MacPherson struts at the front and a torsion beam at the rear.

    The LBX is 4,190 mm long, 1,825 mm wide and 1,550 mm tall, with a wheelbase of 2,580 mm. For context, the Lexus UX – which before this was the brand’s smallest SUV – is 305 mm longer and 15 mm wider than the LBX, and its wheelbase is 60 mm longer. Both the Mercedes-Benz GLA and BMW X1 have longer WBs than the UX. Boot volume is 402 litres, expandable to 994 litres with the 60:40 split-folding rear bench down.

    Bangkok 2024: Lexus LBX – 1.5L hybrid baby SUV is smaller than UX, Merc GLA, BMW X1; from RM290k

    I tried it out for size, and with the driver’s seat set to my position, even the Ativa is more spacious at the back. Also, the rear door cards are shaped from hard plastics, which is not very Lexus. You can relegate the rear section to occasional/emergency seats then, but the LBX should work well as a fuel-efficient personal car.

    The hybrid powertrain combines a 1.5-litre naturally-aspirated three-cylinder petrol engine with 91 PS/120 Nm, an electric motor rated at 94 PS/185 Nm, and a nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) battery. Total system output is 131 PS. With power from the CVT going to the front wheels, 0-100 km/h takes 9.6 seconds and top speed is 170 km/h. There’s an EV mode button to force the system to (briefly) run ICE-free.

    The Luxury is the starter trim for the LBX, and standard kit includes an acoustic windscreen, LED headlamps with auto high beam and DRLs, 17-inch alloys, a powered tailgate and auto wipers.

    Bangkok 2024: Lexus LBX – 1.5L hybrid baby SUV is smaller than UX, Merc GLA, BMW X1; from RM290k

    The Luxury also gets synthetic leather (in Mauve or Solis White), adaptive cruise control, a 9.8-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay, wireless charger, six speakers, a 7.0-inch digital meter panel, ambient lighting, dual-zone climate control, eight-way powered driver’s seat with memory, e-latch door handles with safe exit assist, anti-glare rear view/side mirrors, reverse camera and tyre pressure monitor.

    The Premium adds on acoustic front windows, adaptive high beam (AHS), front fog lamps, cornering lamps and 18-inch alloys. Inside, the range topper gains Lexus’ signature semi-aniline leather (in Saddle Tan or Black), a full 12.3-inch multi-info display, paddle shifters and steering touch controls. That’s quite a fair bit of extra kit for around RM21k more.

    So, what do you think of the Lexus LBX – is there a market for a premium-branded car as small as this? Perhaps not when it comes to Malaysia’s CBU pricing, especially when placed next to tax-free EVs like the Volvo EX30 that’s coming soon, but surely there are people looking for a premium compact hatchback without using the rear seats? Deluxe Ativa – I’m not seeing things right?

    GALLERY: Lexus LBX at BIMS 2024

     
  • Bangkok 2024: BYD Seagull – Myvi-sized EV previewed

    Bangkok 2024: BYD Seagull – Myvi-sized EV previewed

    The BYD Seagull has been shown at the 2024 Bangkok International Motor Show that is ongoing right now, and this is positioned below the Dolphin in the Chinese manufacturer’s product line-up.

    Measuring 3,780 mm long, 1,715 mm wide and 1,540 mm tall with a wheelbase of 2,500 mm, the BYD Seagull is comparable in physical size to the Malaysian favourite, the Perodua Myvi, which measures 3,895 mm long, 1,735 mm wide and 1,515 mm tall, with an identical wheelbase at 2,500 mm.

    Details for the Thailand market remain sparse at this time, though for China, motive power in the Seagull is from a single electric motor in either 74 hp or 94 hp specification, and there are two battery options, either a 30 kWh or a 38 kWh unit, offering range of up to 305 km or 405 km respectively.

    The Seagull was launched for international markets last month beginning with Uruguay, followed by Brazil, and in those markets the car is sold with a 75 PS/130 Nm drive motor. Two battery specifications are offered for the international release, the first being a 30.08 kWh battery offering a claimed 300 km of range (NEDC), and a 38 kWh battery for a claimed 380 km of range (NEDC).

    In China, the Seagull went on sale from 80,000 yuan to 100,000 yuan, or between RM51k and RM64k based on conversion rates at the time of its unveiling in April 2023. Given that the Dolphin went on sale in China priced at up to 136,000 yuan (RM88k) at the time, and then in Malaysia from RM101k to RM126k, assuming the same conversion for the Seagull could mean theoretically mean a price range of RM73k to RM91k.

    For Malaysia, paultan.org understands there was consideration for the BYD Seagull to be brought to market as a budget offering below the Dolphin, and thus, priced lower than that model’s RM99,900 entry point before on-the-road fees.

    However, given the RM100k floor price for electric vehicles sold in Malaysia that is in effect until the end of 2025, a Seagull entry into the Malaysian market would be a non-starter as the RM100k positioning would place it side-by side with the Dolphin, which is larger, more generously equipped vehicle. Come 2026, how much do you think the BYD Seagull would be priced for the Malaysian market?

     
 
 
 

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