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RON95 petrol subsidies need to be reduced in stages to avoid burdening the rakyat, says analyst
The Malaysian government’s decision to reduce fuel subsidies this year has obviously been a source of debate, as it has sparked fears it may lead to a drastic increase in petrol prices. To that end, an analyst has urged authorities to float the price of RON95 fuel in stages to prevent a price shock that sends consumers and businesses panicking.
Bank Muamalat Malaysia’s head of economy and social finance Dr Mohd Afzanizam Abdul Rashid told Berita Harian that when the fixed price of RM2.05 per litre for RON95 was enacted in September 2021, the gap between it and unsubsidised RON97 was only around 30 sen per litre. That gap has grown to a chasm of RM1.42 per litre, with RON97 now retailing at RM3.47 per litre.
“If we take this figure to be an indicator for adjusting the price of RON95, then the big gap to RON97 needs to be closed. However, it needs to be done in stages so that it does not cause sudden inflation,” he said.
Mohd Afzanizam added that Malaysia last experienced a sudden jump in fuel prices on June 5, 2008 when the price of RON97 was floated, bumping the price up by 78 sen per litre. This caused inflation to surge to 7.7% that month, compared to 3.8% in the previous month.
“There are a few things that need to be monitored with the reduction in subsidies. The first is the quantum of fuel price increase that is needed to reduce the cost of subsidies, which ideally should not be drastic. The second is the frequency of price increases.
“Therefore, the use of an Automatic Pricing Mechanism (APM), in which a new price of RON95 petrol is announced every week [as it is currently], could be the solution. With this approach, the rakyat can better plan their finances,” Mohd Afzanizam said, adding that enforcement needs to be stepped up to prevent business from raising prices of goods drastically.
Not everyone is on board with the idea of a managed float. Prof Madya Dr Aimi Zukhazmi Abdul Rashid, an economic analyst at the UniKL Business School, opined that the gradual increase in fuel prices will not resolve the issue of rising inflation rates.
According to him, there will be businesses that will take advantage of the situation and raise the price of goods several times, using the gradual fuel price increases as an excuse. There’s also the issue of enforcement, as there is not enough government agency staff to oversee every station across the country, especially when it comes to the control of purchasing and mechanisms at the stations.
As such, Aimi Zukhazmi said the price of RON95 petrol should immediately be floated to match market rates, not in stages. “Having just one price increase would make it easier to coordinate the price increase of other products, as certain goods like sugar are still subsidised by the government.
“Such a sudden rise [in fuel prices] will be a cause for concern, as the price of crude oil has been increasing due to the crisis in the Middle East. Even so, a staggered price increase will not be enough to achieve the government’s goal in reducing the country’s fiscal deficit and national debt,” he added.
Separately, the Consumers Association of Kedah has warned the government that the withdrawal of fuel subsidies could have a domino effect on the economy and the rakyat‘s livelihood, the New Straits Times reported. President Yusrizal Yusoff said that rising fuel prices could cause high-income business operators to raise prices for goods and services, which will be passed to the consumer.
He also asked if the government had any actual data on how much fuel Malaysians use in order to ensure a more equitable channeling of subsidies. Yusrizal said that as part of an oil-producing country, Malaysians have the right to enjoy fuel subsidies, adding that the government should focus on revitalising the economy to counter the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, rather than withdrawing subsidies.
This comes after economy minister Rafizi Ramli confirmed to Bloomberg this week that the government plans to reduce fuel subsidies this year to address its fiscal deficit. As part of this plan, blanket subsidies for RON95 petrol, which formed the bulk of the RM81 billion in subsidies borne by country, will be phased out.
A look at the website of Double, an unsubsidised fuel station in Padang Besar, Perlis to serve Thai motorists, shows the floated price of RON95 petrol to be RM3.47 per litre today, which is exactly the same as RON97. Diesel fuel, meanwhile, retails at RM3.46 per litre.
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Daihatsu resumes shipments of Move Canbus, Rocky Hybrid, Toyota Raize Hybrid after green light from MLIT
Daihatsu has announced it has resumed shipments of Move Canbus, Rocky Hybrid and Toyota Raize Hybrid which were previously suspended by Japan’s ministry of land, infrastructure, transport and tourism (MLIT) due to non-compliance with standards set by regulators.
In a release, the carmaker said the MLIT confirmed the three aforementioned models met the standards of the country’s Road Transport Vehicle Act following witness testing. These cars were embroiled in the company’s safety test scandal that came to light in 2023.
At the time, investigations revealed the company had falsified safety test results for more than 30 years, with irregularities found in 64 models, including some that are discontinued.
On that mention, Daihatsu revealed in the same release that four models whose production has already ended have been confirmed to comply with regulatory standards. These include the Daihatsu Move Conte and Applause as well as the Toyota Pixis Space and iQ.
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REVIEW: GAC GS3 Emzoom – 1.5L turbo B-SUV priced from RM119k OTR in Malaysia; we try it out in China
The official arrival of GAC Motor in Malaysia brought with it the GAC GS3 B-segment SUV in 2021, though the intervening three years has brought its successor, the second-generation GAC GS3 Emzoom into the Malaysian market, having been made available for booking in Malaysia in January, to be priced below RM130,000 and offered in two variants – Exclusive and Premium-R.
The 2024 GAC GS3 Emzoom has been officially launched in Malaysia in these two variants, priced from RM118,900 for the Exclusive, up to RM128,900 for the Premium-R.
Being a B-segment SUV, the GS3 Emzoom is an entrant in a hotly contested segment in Malaysia occupied by the likes of the Chery Omoda 5, Honda HR-V and Proton X50, which is some formidable competition that the GS3 Emzoom is pitched against.
Before doing so, GAC vehicle importer and distributor Warisan Tan Chong Automotif (WTCA) invited publications to Guangzhou, China to briefly sample the B-segment SUV as a taster before the GS3 Emzoom’s arrival on Malaysian shores. How did the B-segment crossover fare in the brief overseas sampling?
First, the exterior of the GS3 Emzoom is immediately apparent as a thoroughly restyled model relative to its predecessor, where the new car’s more pronounced use of straight lines and sharp creases visually signify the generational change.
To these eyes it’s a striking aesthetic, with the GS3 Emzoom’s headlamps and tail lamps, exterior mirrors as well as front and rear bumper styling in particular being distinct visual cues that give the firm’s B-segment crossover entry a unique identity.
Ditto the wheels, which also sport acute angles and straight lines in their design. In R-Style guise in the brand’s native Chinese market (Premium-R as revealed for Malaysia), the variant brings a sportier look courtesy of extensions on the front bumper and a diffuser-like setup on the rear bumper, with contrasting orange highlights.
The interior of the latest GS3 Emzoom also represents a significant step change in styling, where its predecessor’s cowled analogue instrumentation and infotainment unit are succeeded in the new model by a set of digital displays for drive instrumentation as well as infotainment, both situated on the dashboard fascia in a more open manner.
While the centre console and infotainment screen are angled slightly towards the driver, the dashboard offers a more open, spacious feeling rather than an ensconced, wrap-around sensation despite the relatively high-set central console, which offers a secondary space for oddments on the tier beneath the transmission selector and the pair of cupholders.
From the driver’s seat, the three-spoke multi-function steering wheel is sporty in its appearance and reasonably pleasing to hold, with the implied sportiness again surfacing in elements including the perforated leather in the left- and right-hand regions of the wheel rim.
Before turning a wheel in the left-hand-drive example, sitting stationary in the driver’s seat of the GS3 Emzoom offers touch points of a perceived quality that would appear to be par for the segment course, with leather, robust metal-look trim and soft-touch panels where immediately visible, and harder-feeling plastics in more concealed areas of the cabin.
Briefly sampling the infotainment menus of the native Chinese-market units on offer demonstrated sufficiently crisp responses, and the displays are clear to the view.
Our drive time with the GS3 Emzoom in Guangzhou, China was held within the confines of a temporary course that consisted of a straight-line acceleration and braking zone, slalom and figure-of-eight sections, offering a brief, if limited hands-on experience of the brand’s latest B-segment SUV entry.
Beginning our drive time in the GS3 Emzoom with the straight-line acceleration and braking test segment summons the 177 PS/270 Nm 1.5 litre turbocharged inline-four cylinder petrol engine, which is sufficiently zesty in its responses. Its exhaust note is as expected of the commonly used configuration, though much more subdued than the car’s exterior would have one expect at first.
While no timed runs were exercised, its claimed 7.5 seconds in the 0-100 km/h sprint feels believable. Serving as the link to the driven front wheels, the seven-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox is one that leans towards the more relaxed end of the spectrum for its type, as there are snappier-shifting dual-clutch examples on the market.
Taking to the slalom and figure-of-eight sections of the test course, the GS3 Emzoom continues to demonstrate a more relaxed demeanour than its rather extroverted exterior styling would have one believe, instead revealing a chassis that is more obliging, rather than engaging of a keen driver who wants to press on.
The steering is light, even for a B-segment vehicle, and is bereft of any real feedback, as the helm does not load up in weight even when plenty is asked of the front tyres when the GS3 Emzoom is put through its paces in the confines of the course. The setup feels to be of a relatively slow ratio, too, with a considerable amount of wheel twirling required.
The GS3 Emzoom chassis appears to be one that is set up for comfort, with considerable lean experienced even for a crossover, from what feels like relatively low spring rate. Conversely, the trade-off for the very audible protests of the tyres in the handling section, is a commendable level of compliance over moderately sharp ridges as demonstrated when traversing joints in the slabs of concrete on the test grounds. As for primary ride, a more definitive finding will have to be reserved for a later sampling on our local roads.
An unexpectedly relaxed device the GS3 Emzoom is, then, in contrast to its overtly sporty exterior styling. Should the brand’s Malaysian-market GS3 Emzoom carry over its native Chinese market chassis calibration, this may yet prove to be pliant enough for the challenges of our local road surfaces, particularly in the Klang Valley.
Considered in isolation, the GS3 Emzoom majors on sharp styling, and as claimed by GAC, segment-best engine torque output with 270 Nm on tap, and while the new entrant from GAC is physically larger in its exterior compared to its competitors, whether or not that advantage translates to interior space will require further exploring.
Elsewhere as an ownership proposition, the brand is being built up by distributor WTCA who is setting out to have more than 20 showrooms and service centres nationwide by the third quarter of this year, with 15 dealerships in the country to date. This should bode well for the brand, considering its relative youth in the Malaysian market.
2024 GAC GS3 Emzoom Premium R in Malaysia
2024 GAC GS3 Emzoom Exclusive in Malaysia
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Naza collaborates with Gentari, says that it will be representing a new EV auto brand – which OEM?
From L-R: Gentari DC charger at Naza Automall PJ, AC charger at Naza Tower KL Naza Automotive Holdings recently formalised its collaboration with Gentari Green Mobility, and the strategic partnership sets the stage for the former’s ‘readiness to become a formidable player in the EV space’. The partnership is set to empower all EV users with nationwide access to a network of charging stations, the companies said in a statement.
“This partnership with Gentari is not only a testament to our dedication to sustainability but also a bold step towards accelerating Malaysia’s EV journey. It aligns seamlessly with the government’s vision of transitioning to a greener economy by 2050,” said Naza Group executive chairman SM Nasarudin SM Nasimuddin.
“Our collaboration with Gentari underlines our commitment to ensuring a thriving ecosystem for EVs, one where accessibility meets environmental responsibility. The deployment of EV-charging infrastructure bears witness to the synergy between Naza and Gentari, reaching not only our tenants and communities but ultimately, every EV enthusiast nationwide,” he added.
smart PJ, operated by Naza, will open its doors later this year With this partnership, Gentari will initiate the deployment of EV chargers at properties owned by the Naza Group. The phased rollout commenced in August 2023 with the first installation at Naza Tower near KLCC, and more recently at Naza Automall in Petaling Jaya. Naza’s property division is also exploring the integration of charging points at its developments such as KL Metropolis and TTDI Sentralis in Section 13, Shah Alam.
“Together, the parties present an enticing proposition to the EV principal that Naza Auto will be representing, showcasing the Malaysian market’s readiness for electrification,” the companies said in a statement, hinting that Naza, which used to be a major auto distributor in Malaysia, is set to add a new brand to its portfolio.
Last month, smart Malaysia announced that Naza will operate a new smart dealership at the latter’s PJ base, and those who use the Federal Highway would have seen the hoarding. It’s set to open in the second half of the year. Could it be smart, or is this ‘EV principal’ another OEM?
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2024 Toyota Land Cruiser 250 Series launched in Japan – 2.7L petrol, 2.8L turbodiesel; from RM161k
Toyota has officially launched the Land Cruiser 250 Series in Japan, which will be offered in a number of variants, including two First Edition offerings. Also know as the Land Cruiser Prado or simply the Land Cruiser (as it is in the United States), the 250 Series joins the 300 Series and 70 Series to form a complete line-up of Land Cruiser models in Japan.
Compared to the previous Land Cruiser Prado, the new 250 Series is much larger vehicle, measuring in at 4,925 mm long (+100 mm), 1,980 mm wide (+95 mm), 1,870 mm tall (+20 mm) and with a wheelbase of 2,850 mm (+60 mm).
It’s important to note that the 250 Series isn’t a “baby Land Cruiser” as the Prado was in the past. In fact, both are built on the same GA-F version of the Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA) – the ladder frame structure is also used for the Lexus GX and LX.
Looking at the dimensions, the 250 Series shares the same wheelbase with the 300 Series but is slightly smaller in other aspects, including overall length (between 25 to 90 mm), width (between zero to 10 mm) and height (by 75 mm).
As Toyota explains in an infographic, the 300 Series represents “high-end and luxury” in the Land Cruiser world, while the 250 Series sits in the “practical” zone with the 70 Series deemed as “sturdy and durable.”
In Japan, two engines are offered for the Land Cruiser 250 Series. The first is a 1GD-FTV 2.8 litre inline-four turbodiesel making 204 PS (201 hp or 150 kW) from 3,000 to 3,400 rpm and 500 Nm of torque from 1,600 to 2,800 rpm.
Meanwhile, the second engine is a 2TR-FE 2.7 litre naturally-aspirated inline-four petrol unit with 163 PS (161 hp or 120 kW) at 5,200 rpm and 246 Nm at 3,900 rpm. The petrol mill is paired with a six-speed ‘6 Super ECT’ automatic transmission, while the turbodiesel gets an eight-speed ‘Direct Shift-8AT’ automatic gearbox.
Both powertrains come standard with a full-time four-wheel drive system featuring a centre Torsen limited-slip differential as well as an electronic rear differential lock. The front stabiliser can also be changed from free to locked at speed of 30 km/h or over using a switch in the cabin. A six-mode Multi-Terrain Select is available to drivers, along with a Multi-Terrain Monitor that uses cameras to help provide better visibility when off-roading.
Three grade levels are available, namely the GX, VX and ZX. The VX grade can be had with either a petrol or diesel engine, while the GX and ZX are only available with a diesel. Pricing starts from 5.2 million yen (about RM161k) for the GX with a diesel engine, while the VX petrol is 5.45 million yen (RM169k). The diesel-powered VX and ZX are 6.3 million (RM195k) and 7.35 million yen (RM228k) respectively.
Japanese customers can also order the ZX and VX as First Edition models, which are limited to a total of 8,000 units. The First Edition cars are evocative of past Land Cruisers with a design that features round headlamps instead of the multi-element rectangular units on the standard variants.
Both the VX and ZX grades offer seating for up to seven passengers (2-3-2 layout) while the GX is strictly a five-seater. All grades come standard with the Toyota Safety Sense suite of driver assistance systems, which include autonomous emergency braking, adaptive cruise control and more. Plenty of accessories are also available from JAOS and Toy-Factory in addition to Toyota genuine parts and Modellista items.
GALLERY: 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser 250
GALLERY: 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser 250 First Edition
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Petronas Lubricants International and Mercedes-Benz Global CS & Parts sign strategic partnership deal
Petronas Lubricants International (PLI) and Mercedes-Benz Global Customer Service & Parts have entered into a strategic partnership agreement and will be collaborating to develop technical solutions that optimise vehicle performance and efficiency, aimed at driving advancements within the automotive after-sales sector.
The two companies will be leveraging their respective expertise, harnessing digitalisation strategies, tailored market approaches, robust global collaborations as well as initiatives aimed at achieving carbon neutrality, to deliver enhanced customer value within the sector, they said in a statement.
“At Mercedes-Benz Global Customer Service & Parts our top priority is to deliver the highest level of customer satisfaction, truly caring for their vehicles by offering high-performing, innovative and sustainable products for their vehicles,” said Andreas Jörg, director of service and parts business and warranty and goodwill, Mercedes-Benz Cars.
“Our strategic partnership with PLI is an exciting opportunity to further enhance our commitment to our customers by collaborating on innovative technologies that will shape the future of mobility and customer experience,” he added.
“Leveraging our experience in the development of Fluid Technology Solutions, we will continue to deliver innovative solutions to cater to advanced engine technologies and meet the high-performance driving needs of our customers including delivering improved fuel efficiency, engine performance and safety,” said Hezlinn Idris, MD and group CEO of PLI
“Together with Mercedes-Benz Global Customer Service & Parts, we are expanding our global reach, making our solutions more accessible to the world while prioritising customer value at the core of our offerings,” she added.
As part of the collaboration, PLI and Mercedes-Benz Global Customer Service & Parts will also explore avenues for joint marketing initiatives, educational programs, and public outreach campaigns aimed at raising awareness about the significance of sustainable mobility solutions, the companies said.
Petronas has been a partner of the Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula One Team since 2010, and they’ve won eight constructors’ championships in that time. Back in 2022, both parties announced a multi-year title and technical partnership for the 2026 F1 season onwards, and team boss Toto Wolff said “our team and Petronas are no longer just partners; we are family, and we will be one team for many more years to come”.
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MG opens 10 new dealers in Klang Valley, Seremban, Melaka, Johor – East Malaysia expansion by end-2024
Fresh from its launch event last month, SAIC Motor Malaysia has announced it has opened ten MG Motor dealerships in Peninsular Malaysia, covering the central (Klang Valley) and southern regions. The new outlets will sell the all-electric MG4 and MG ZS EV, which herald the return of the Morris Garages nameplate in Malaysia after an absence of nearly two decades.
The ten outlets are:
- Mega Galeri Motor Sdn. Bhd. (MG Motor Petaling Jaya) – sales and service
Wisma GAM, Ground Floor, Lot 8241,
Jalan 225, Seksyen 51A, 46100 Petaling Jaya, Selangor
Operating hours: Mon to Sat (9am to 5.30pm), Sun and PH (10am to 4.30pm) - Mega Galeri Sdn. Bhd. (MG Motor Glenmarie) – sales only
15 Jalan Pelukis U1/46, Temasya Industrial Park,
40150 Shah Alam, Selangor
Operating hours: Mon to Sat (9am to 5.30pm), Sun and PH (10am to 4.30pm) - Mega Appeal Sdn. Bhd. (MG Motor Cheras) – sales and service
Jalan Midah 1, Taman Midah, 56000 Cheras, Kuala Lumpur
Operating hours: Mon to Sat (8.30am to 6pm), Sun and PH (9am to 6pm) - Sing Huat Premium Sdn. Bhd. (MG Motor Chan Sow Lin) – sales only
A-1-2, Level 1, Block A, Southgate Commercial Centre 2,
Jalan Dua, Off Jalan Chan Sow Lin, 55200 Kuala Lumpur
Operating hours: Mon to Sat (9am to 7pm), Sun and PH (10am to 6pm) - MN Automart Sdn. Bhd. (MG Motor Setia Alam) – sale and service
3 Jalan Astaka 4/KU2, Bandar Bukit Raja, 41050 Klang, Selangor
Operating hours: Mon to Sat (9am to 5pm), Sun and PH (9am to 5pm) - SV Auto Haus Sdn. Bhd. (MG Motor Seremban) – sales and service
125, Persiaran S2B1, Seremban 2, 70300 Seremban, Negeri Sembilan
Operating hours: Mon to Sat (9am to 6pm), Sun and PH (10am to 5pm) - Seong Hoe Motors Sdn. Bhd. (MG Motor Melaka) – sales and service
C-5137 Jalan Penghulu Abas, Bukit Baru, 75150 Melaka
Operating hours: Mon to Sat (8.30am to 5.30pm), Sun and PH (10am to 3pm) - Ang Trading & Motor Credit Sdn. Bhd. (MG Motor Muar) – sales and service
33-35 Jalan Sulaiman, 84000 Muar, Johor
Operating hours: Mon to Sat (9am to 5.30pm), Sun and PH (10am to 4pm) - Ang Trading & Motor Credit Sdn. Bhd. (MG Motor Plentong) – sales and service
2 Jalan Mutiara 6, Taman Perindustrian Plentong, 81750 Masai, Johor
Operating hours: Mon to Sat (9am to 5.30pm), Sun and PH (10am to 4pm) - SV Auto Haus Sdn. Bhd. (MG Motor Puchong) – sales only, fully completed May 2024
GF-4, Tower 2 @ PFCC, Jalan Puteri 1/2,
Bandar Puteri Puchong, 47100 Puchong, Selangor
Operating hours: Mon to Sat (9am to 6pm), Sun and PH (10am to 5pm)
According to managing director Steven Du, the brand will expand to the northern and east coast regions “soon” and enter East Malaysia by the end of the year. “We are delighted to welcome these strong dealers to the MG family,” he said. “Their passion and commitment align perfectly with our mission to provide unparalleled MG experiences to valued customers nationwide.”
Buyers will continue to benefit from the launch promos, which run until April 30. These include a 7 kW AC wallbox charger worth RM4,600 for the MG ZS EV and MG4 Standard, an 11 kW wallbox worth RM5,200 for the MG4 Lux and RM1,000 in DC Handal and JomCharge charging credits for the MG4 Lux Extended and XPower.
There’s also the MG Insurance Programme (MIP) underwritten by Berjaya Sompo Insurance, Allianz Malaysia and Generali Malaysia, which provides several EV-specific benefits. These include unlimited towing to the nearest charger if you run out of battery charge, up to RM10,000 reimbursement if your wallbox charger is stolen and up to RM5,000 in extra compensation in case of charging-related fire, on top of the usual vehicle insurance coverage.
- Mega Galeri Motor Sdn. Bhd. (MG Motor Petaling Jaya) – sales and service
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2024 Suzuki Avenis and Burgmann Street EX 125 scooters in Malaysia, priced at RM6,980 and RM7,500
2024 Suzuki Burgmann Street EX 125 Entering the Malaysian scooter market is the 2024 Suzuki Avenis, priced at RM6,980, and the 2024 Suzuki Burgmann Street EX, retailing at RM7,500. There is also the Suzuki Avenis GP Edition in Grand Prix colours, tagged at RM7,200.
Stocks of the Suzuki Avenis and Burgmann are available immediately at all authorised Suzuki Malaysia dealers. All pricing does not include road tax, insurance and registration.
For colour options, the Avenis gets three – Metallic Matte Fibroin Grey with Metallic Lush Green, Metallic Matte Black with Glass Sparkle Black – along with the racing replica Metallic Sonic Silver with Triton Blue ‘GP Edition’. The Burgmann gets two colour choices – Pearl Moon Stone Gray and Metallic Mat Black.
The Suzuki Avenis and Burgmann were first seen at the KL Bike Show last year, both getting the same power plant, an air-cooled, single-cylinder mill displacing 125 cc. Power is claimed to be 8.58 hp at 6,750 rpm with a maximum torque of 10 Nm coming in. at 5,500 rpm.
The Burgmann gets the Suzuki Eco Performance Alpha (SEP-α) engine with Engine Auto Stop-Start (EASS) which shuts down at stops. This is complemented by the Suzuki Silent Starter System for quiet engine starts.
2024 Suzuki Avenis 125 GP Edition Targetted to the young urban commuter, the Avenis comes with an LCD instrument panel that features an ‘ECO’ indicator for fuel efficient performance. 5.2-litres of fuel is contained in the tank, while the filler cap is located externally behind the seats to make refuelling easy.
Meanwhile, the Burgmann is positioned as Suzuki’s premium small scooter, with extended floorboards and long wheelbase for rider ergonomics and ride stability. Riding conveniences include a 21.5-litre storage compartment, twin helmet hooks and two utility hooking points while the front cowl compartment includes a USB charging port.
2024 Suzuki Avenis 125
2024 Suzuki Burgmann Street EX 125
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Volvo Birthday Sale with ‘super-secret deals’, RM50k Sweden trip – April 26-28 at Sentul Depot, dealerships
Volvo is turning 97 this month and Volvo Car Malaysia (VCM) will have a big birthday bash next weekend. All are invited to the Volvo Birthday Sale from April 26-28 at Sentul Depot in KL and all Volvo dealerships across Peninsular Malaysia, Sabah and Sarawak.
On offer at the three-day event are ‘super-secret deals’ on Volvo’s full line-up of electrified models. The Volvo C40 and Volvo XC40 Recharge Pure Electric EVs already come with a RM15,000 rebate in April, but there will be further offers at the event – that’s the super-secret bit.
What’s a birthday without gifts, and Volvo has a big one lined up. Customers who purchase EVs during the event will stand a chance to win the grand prize of a trip to Gothenburg, Sweden for two worth up to RM50,000, including a visit to the brand new ‘World of Volvo’ flagship experience centre that only opened its doors this month.
By the way, the C40 Recharge Pure Electric was recently updated for model year 2024. The EV now comes with a 550 km WLTP range (100 km more than before) courtesy of a larger 82 kWh battery pack (was 78 kWh). Max rate for DC charging is now 200 kW, up from 150 kW – 10-80% state of charge takes just 27 minutes. There’s also pixel LED headlights and a new Vapour Grey option. If you need more space and rear headroom, opt for the XC40 Recharge Pure Electric.
EVs aside, VCM has a range of plug-in hybrids including the XC90, XC60, S60, S90 and sexy V60. Also available are a wide selection of Volvo Selekt cars. These are approved pre-owned cars with warranty and full inspection.
Finally, to mark Volvo’s 97 years of heritage and safety innovations on the road, the first 97 customers who place orders over the three days will also receive an exclusive Volvo Gift Box upon delivery of their new car. All are invited, so register here to secure your spot and enjoy personalised service at the Volvo Birthday Sale.
GALLERY: 2024 Volvo C40 Recharge Pure Electric
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MINI Aceman to debut at 2024 Beijing Auto Show – slots below Countryman; up to 400 km EV range
The MINI Aceman will make its world debut at the upcoming Beijing International Automotive Exhibition (also known as Auto China), which is set to take place next week. First previewed by the Concept Aceman nearly two years ago, the Aceman will sit between the MINI Cooper and Countryman in the brand’s line-up.
Some have regarded the Aceman as an indirect successor to the departing Clubman, and the model (codenamed J05) will be the second car to be produced by Spotlight Automotive, a joint venture formed by BMW and Great Wall Motor (GWM), after the all-electric MINI Cooper.
For now, the company is not giving much in the way of details, and the teaser photos show the Aceman wrapped in camouflage to hide the design. Of course, there’s not much mystery because the model popped up in China’s ministry of industry and information technology (MIIT) database last month.
Based on information from the MIIT, the Aceman will come in two variants, including a base option and a higher-spec S. The crossover measures between 4,076 to 4,094 mm long, 1,754 mm wide, 1,515 mm tall and has a wheelbase of 2,606 mm. By comparison, the current Countryman is 4,433 mm long, 1,843 mm wide and 1,656 mm tall and its wheelbase spans 2,692 mm.
Both variants will feature nickel manganese cobalt (NMC) battery packs supplied by GWM’s Svolt subsidiary, with the base Aceman offering up to 300 km of range courtesy of a 40-kWh unit. The entry-level Aceman will be equipped with a front-mounted electric motor rated at 184 PS (181 hp or 135 kW) and 290 Nm of torque.
As for the Aceman S, its electric motor has higher outputs of 218 PS (215 hp or 160 kW) and 329 Nm for a top speed of 170 km/h instead of the base variant’s 160 km/h. There’s also a larger 54.2-kWh battery pack for more range at 400 km.
In addition to the Aceman, MINI will also be showcasing the MINI Cooper in both E and SE trims as well as the Countryman John Cooper Works at Auto China.
GALLERY: MINI Aceman leak
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2025 BMW X3 teased – G45 seen in official “spyshots”; will get PHEV with 100 km EV range, 390 hp M50
Like clockwork, the G01 BMW X3 is getting replaced after seven years on the market. Munich has released official “spyshots” of its replacement, the all-new G45, undergoing final chassis and driver assist tuning ahead of its world premiere “in a few weeks.”
Despite wearing full-body camouflage, we can quite clearly see the general design of the new X3. It looks all the world like a supersized X1, replete with triangular headlights, large double kidney grilles, chunky fender flares, flush pull-up door handles and a rather weak version of the Hofmeister kink on the thick D-pillars.
Unique touches include the double-L daytime running lights that are reminiscent of the previous facelifted G30 5 Series, along with a split lower air intake from the X2. The rear, however, is completely different and actually looks more like an XM with the number plate recess mounted low down in the bumper, although the “pincer” taillights from the outgoing facelifted G01 are still present.
The new X3 is claimed to have a low drag coefficient of just 0.27, with lift having been reduced at the rear. It will also boast a wider track, a stiffer body shell and retuned suspension, including 19% more caster to improve directional stability. You’ll also get more direct steering and revised anti-roll bars, the latter helping to improve handling without sacrificing ride comfort.
Like all new BMWs, the X3 will come with a curved widescreen display panel, here linked to the same Android-based BMW Operating System 9 as the X1, X2 and 2 Series Active Tourer; for the first time, the system will come with the iDrive rotary controller.
You also get My Modes that will allow you to adjust the optional adaptive dampers, among other things. An expanded list of driver assists includes the Active Lane Change Assistant and the Parking and Manoeuvre Assistant, the latter letting you control the car from the outside using your smartphone.
Technical details have yet to be released, but initial test drive reports suggest that the new X3 will be built on the same Cluster Architecture (CLAR), albeit the revised WE version used on the G60 5 Series and G70 7 Series. Power will come from the usual B48 petrol and B47 diesel 2.0 litre turbocharged four-cylinder engines, including an xDrive30 with around 280 hp.
Moving up the ladder, you’ll find the M Performance model, the M50, utilising the B58 3.0 litre turbo straight-six good for around 390 hp. There will also be a xDrive30e plug-in hybrid tipped to produce a total output of 300 hp and an all-electric range of around 100 km. It’s unclear whether a petrol-powered X3 M will continue to be offered, but word on the vine suggests it’s still on the cards, codenamed G97.
As an aside, the electric iX3 derivative is set to be discontinued after just one generation. Its replacement will be built on the radically different Neue Klasse architecture and has already been previewed by the Vision Neue Klasse X concept.
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2024 Mazda CX-80 debuts in Europe – new three-row SUV; 2.5L PHEV, 3.3L mild hybrid turbodiesel; AWD
Here it is, the all-new Mazda CX-80. Built on the carmaker’s Skyactiv Multi-Solution Scalable Architecture with a front-engine longitudinal layout and rear-wheel drive, the SUV is the fourth member of the Large Product group announced back in October 2021, joining the CX-60, CX-70 and CX-90.
Set to go on sale in Europe this fall, the CX-80 will be the brand’s first three-row SUV offered in the region, positioned above the CX-60 as the flagship model. North America will miss out on the CX-80 because the CX-70 and CX-90 are offered there, both of which are larger in size.
On that mention, let’s talk dimensions. The CX-80 measures 4,995 mm long, 1,890 mm wide, 1,710 mm tall and has a wheelbase spanning 3,120 mm. That makes it 250 mm longer, 24 mm higher and with a 250 mm longer wheelbase than the CX-60, which shares the same width.
For further context, the CX-70 and CX-90 have the same wheelbase of 3,119 mm and an overall length well over 5,000 mm. We should also mention Mazda’s other three-row SUVs which are the CX-8 and CX-9, both with the same 2,930 mm wheelbase, but the former is 4,900 mm long while the latter is 5,075 mm. The CX-80 is the replacement for the CX-8 and CX-9 which ended production (for selected markets) in 2023.
In terms of design, the CX-80 looks like a stretched version of the CX-60 with a more upright rear end that necessitates a noticeably different window line and thicker accompanying trim. The latest evolution of Mazda’s Kodo design approach seen on the CX-60 is applied here, with the CX-80 sporting a nearly identical face to its smaller stablemate.
Highlight cues include a large front grille with a prominent chrome surround that leads into squarish headlamps with integrated L-shaped daytime running lights. Further down, you’ll find (hopefully functional) air curtains with black trim and a wide lower intake.
As for the rear, the taillights adopt an L-shaped design to match that of the headlamps as well as what’s seen on the CX-60. One difference is the lack of garnish for the exhaust pipe, which is instead hidden behind the bumper for a “cleaner, more elegant appearance,” the company said in its release.
The CX-80 will be offered in nine colours, including Jet Black, Deep Crystal Blue, Platinum Quartz, Arctic White, Rhodium White, Machine Grey, Soul Red Crystal, Artisan Red and Melting Copper. There will also be a selection of 20-inch wheel designs available depending on trim level, with options being Homura, Takumi and Exclusive-line.
Continuing the theme of familiarity, the CX-80’s dashboard design looks like a carbon copy of what we see in the CX-60. Key features include a digital instrument cluster, a 12.3-inch infotainment screen, an Active Driving Display HUD, two-zone climate control with vents for all three rows, a wireless charging pad, USB-C ports, ambient lighting, Mazda Connect (with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, Alexa voice control) and MyMazda telematics.
Depending on the trim level and options chosen, the CX-80 can be equipped with rear door sunshades (a first for a Mazda in Europe), a powered panoramic sunroof and a 12-speaker Bose sound system.
Three-row seating (and the larger size) is what sets the CX-80 apart from the CX-60, and there are three configurations available for the second row. The first is a bench seat that results in a 2-3-2 layout to accommodate up to seven people. The other two make the CX-80 a six-seater with two captain chairs that can be had with a walk through or a middle console.
With a second-row bench seat, you get a sliding range of 120 mm and a seat recline angle of between 15 and 33 degrees. Mazda adds the second-row shoulder room is 1,476 mm (35 mm more than the CX-60), second-row headroom is 996 mm (12 mm more than CX-60) and the third row can accommodate occupants up to 1.7 metres in height.
As for cargo space, you get 258 litres (including underfloor storage) when the third-row seats are in their default position. With them folded down, there’s 687 litres of space available for use, and if you also folded down the second-row seats, you get 1,221 litres (1,971 litres to the ceiling). An optional hands-free powered tailgate is offered to make things more convenient.
Another bit of convenience is a driver personalisation system that uses a camera to identify the position of the driver and estimate their physique to automatically set what the system believes to be the optimum driving position. This system also automatically restores settings of other vehicle functions for up to six drivers as well as provide ingress/egress assistance.
All CX-80s will come standard with the i-Activsense suite of driver assistance functions, which include front and rear Smart Brake Support (SBS), Lane-keep Assist System (LAS), Traffic Sign Recognition System (TSR), Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM) and Driver Attention Alert (DAA).
Mazda Radar Cruise Control (MRCC) is available with the Driver Assistance package, while enhanced safety features making their debut in the CX-80 include Cruising & Traffic Support (CTS) with new unresponsive driver support, Smart Brake Support (SBS) with new head-on collision mitigation, and Emergency Lane Keeping (ELK) with new head-on traffic avoidance assist.
Europe will get the CX-80 with two i-Activ all-wheel drive powertrains, the first being a plug-in hybrid based on an inline-four petrol engine, while the second is a turbodiesel mild hybrid straight-six. The specifications for each are as follows:
2.5 e-Skyactiv PHEV
- Engine: Skyactiv-G 2.5 litre naturally-aspirated inline-four petrol
- Engine output: 192 PS (189 hp or 141 kW) at 6,000 rpm and 261 Nm at 4,000 rpm
- Transmission: Eight-speed automatic, all-wheel drive
- Electric motor output: 175 PS (173 hp or 129 kW) and 270 Nm
- Total system output: 328 PS (323 hp or 241 kW) and 500 Nm
- 0-100 km/h time: 6.8 seconds
- Top speed: 195 km/h
- Battery: 17.8 kWh lithium-ion
- Electric driving range: 60 km
- WLTP fuel consumption: 1.6 l/100 km
3.3 e-Skyactiv D
- Engine: e-Skyactiv D 3.3 litre turbodiesel straight-six with 48-volt M Hybrid Boost
- Engine output: 254 PS (251 hp or 187 kW) at 3,750 rpm and 550 Nm from 1,500-2,400 rpm
- Transmission: Eight-speed automatic, all-wheel drive
- 0-100 km/h time: 8.4 seconds
- Top speed: 219 km/h
- Battery: 0.33 kWh lithium-ion
- WLTP fuel consumption: 5.7-5.8/100 km
Both powertrains come with the Mi-Drive system that offers drivers up to five modes, including Normal, Sport, Off-Road, Towing and EV (PHEV only), along with Kinematic Posture Control (KPC), front double wishbones and a rear multi-link setup as well as a towing capacity of up to 2,500 kg.
With Mazda aiming to be more upmarket, the CX-80 is the company’s answer to comparable mid-size premium SUVs (with optional three-row seating) such as the BMW X5, Mercedes-Benz GLE and Audi Q7. Would you pick the CX-80 over these established nameplates?
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KTM’s ETS service extends to Segamat, Johor – July 1
KTM has released a teaser for its ETS train service in Segamat, Johor which will start on July 1 this year. Currently, the ETS is from Padang Besar in the north to Gemas, Negeri Sembilan in the south, so this would be the first time ETS is available in Johor.
In September last year, it was reported that the Gemas-Johor Bahru electrified double-tracking rail project would be completed by 2025.
“This whole project needs time to complete as it has been delayed many times, especially due to Covid 19, but now it’s on track. We hope this project can be completed as soon as possible so that it can connect Johor Bahru to Kuala Lumpur and all the way to Padang Besar,” transport minister Anthony Loke said in September 2023, when the project was at 92% completion.
The Gemas-JB EDTP project is 192 km long and has 11 stops crossing four major districts in Johor, including Segamat, Kluang and Kulai before terminating at JB Sentral. It is said that the journey from KL Sentral to JB Sentral will take three hours and 30 minutes. Once completed, one can take the ETS all the way from JB to Padang Besar at the Thai border.
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2024 GAC GS3 Emzoom launched in Malaysia – 177 PS/270Nm 1.5L turbo, 7DCT, ADAS; RM119k-129k OTR
Following its preview in January this year, the GAC GS3 Emzoom has now been officially launched in Malaysia, and the B-segment SUV model is offered in two variants; Exclusive, and Premium-R, both in fully imported (CBU) form, priced at RM118,900 and RM128,900 on-the-road without insurance, respectively. This is the Chinese brand’s entry that competes with the likes of the Chery Omoda 5, Honda HR-V and Proton X50, among others.
First emerging locally as a fully imported (CBU) model, the GS3 Emzoom is now a CKD model that is locally assembled in the Tan Chong Motor Assemblies (TCMA) plant in Segambut, Kuala Lumpur, with assembly at the site having commenced this month, according to GAC distributor WTC Automotif.
Customer deliveries of locally assembled (CKD) units of the GS3 Emzoom is expected to commence in “June or July”, according to WTC Automotif, while pricing for the CKD version remains subject to government approval and thus to be confirmed.
Built upon the manufacturer’s GPMA platform, the GS3 Emzoom measures 4,410 mm long, 1,850 mm wide, with a 2,650 mm wheelbase, making it 52 mm longer and 25 mm wider than its predecessor, while its wheelbase is also 90 mm longer than the previous model. The luggage compartment holds 341 litres, expandable to 1,271 litres when the rear seats are folded.
Against its key rivals, the GS3 Emzoom is 80 mm longer, 50 mm wider, 9 mm lower and 50 mm longer of wheelbase than the Proton X50, while being 25 mm longer, 60 mm wider and 40 mm longer of wheelbase when compared to the Honda HR-V.
The exterior of the Premium-R adds a sportier visual slant courtesy of its contrasting orange highlights and R Style exterior sport package, the latter contributing to the variant’s greater overall length at 4,446 mm compared to the Exclusive at 4,410 mm.
Powertrain for the GS3 Emzoom is a 1.5 litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine that outputs 177 PS at 5,500 rpm and 270 Nm of torque from 1,400 rpm to 4,500 rpm; these outputs are transmitted to the front wheels through a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. according to GAC, fuel consumption is 5.9L/100 km.
Suspension for the GS3 Emzoom is by MacPherson struts in front and a torsion beam setup at the rear, with 18-inch alloy wheels shod in 225/55 tyres.
Inside, the GS3 Emzoom gets synthetic leather in a two-tone blue-and-black scheme including a leather-trimmed multi-function steering wheel. Standard equipment across both variants includes a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment unit with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android mobile phone mirroring, surround-view camera suite, and an electric parking brake with auto hold.
In addition to the kit list on the Exclusive variant, the Premium-R adds automatic climate control, six-way power adjustment for the driver’s seat, multi-colour ambient lighting, wireless smartphone charger, hands-free power tailgate, and a panoramic sunroof.
Active safety kit across both variants include dual front and dual front-side airbags, front and rear disc brakes, hill hold control, electronic stability program (ESP) and blind spot vision, while ADAS is comprised of AEB, front collision warning, traffic sign recognition, lane departure warning, and intelligent speed limit control.Added to the Premium-R are high beam assist and park assist.
In Malaysia, the GAC GS3 Emzoom is sold with a five-year, 150,000 km manufacturer-backed warranty, and can be specified in four exterior colours – Salt Lake Blue, Ivory White, Graphene Grey and Super Star Silver.
As part of a special launch package, the first 2,000 customers for the car will get a seven-year, 180,000 km powertrain warranty for the first registered owner, along with a complimentary three-service maintenance package. Also offered to the first 2,000 customers is a GAC smart watch key worth RM1,388, which integrates the functions of the original car key with added connectivity features of a smartwatch.
2024 GAC GS3 Emzoom Premium R
2024 GAC GS3 Emzoom Exclusive
GALLERY: 2024 GAC GS3 Emzoom, Malaysian preview
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Tesla asks shareholders for US$56 billion pay for Musk
Tesla will be holding a shareholder vote to reinstate a US$56 billion pay package, just days after the company announced it would be laying off 14,000 employees, or 14% of its workforce. The shareholder vote will be held at the AGM on June 13, 2024.
This is the same US$56 billion pay package in the form of Tesla share options that was voided by a court back in January 2024. The court decided Elon Musk’s Tesla compensation plan from 2018 was not developed in a fair process due to his significant influence over Tesla and the directors involved in the plan’s approval. Delaware judge Kathaleen McCormick ruled that rescission is an appropriate remedy.
Musk’s US$56 billion compensation plan was the largest package ever developed in the history of public companies and involved 12 tranches of Tesla stock options, which would vest if the company’s market capitalization increased by $50 billion and Tesla achieved a revenue target.
In the case, it was decided that the people who negotiated the CEO’s pay package on Tesla’s behalf were under the influence of the CEO. So even though shareholders voted in favour of the compensation plan, we have no idea if they could have been voting for a less generous plan.
Musk previously expressed concerns about not having at least 25% shareholding in Tesla. He says its not about the money, but 25% is necessary for influence on the direction that the company takes. He implied a preference to work on projects outside of Tesla if he cannot have 25%.
He added that owning the current 13% shares is not enough motivation to “show up for work”, referencing other shareholders like Fidelity who currently own a similar amount of shares but are not expected to work.
The US$56 billion pay package can be restored by voting for it again, this time ensuring the holes that allowed the court judgement to happen are plugged.
In addition to voting for the pay package, shareholders will also be asked to approve reincorporating the company in Texas. The rationale for this is that Delaware courts did not respect Tesla shareholders will by reversing the pay package which shareholders had previously approved. Texas was chosen as Tesla currently already has its physical headquarters and a gigafactory in Texas.
You can read more about the vote at supportteslavalue.com
