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  • Careplus sells off Careplus Mall for RM42 mil, to use proceeds to complete NexV Manufacturing plant

    In Local News / by /

    Careplus sells off Careplus Mall for RM42 mil, to use proceeds to complete NexV Manufacturing plant

    Glove maker Careplus has announced it is disposing its Careplus Mall, which comprises 40,680 square metres of land together with a single-storey retail complex, in Seremban for RM42 million as part of its plan to fund its expansion into electric vehicle (EV) manufacturing.

    In a filing with Bursa Malaysia, the company said that its wholly-owned subsidiary Careplus Properties has signed a conditional sale and purchase agreement with Delloyd Asset Portfolio for the disposal, which is expected to generate a pro forma gain of RM2.09 million. The deal is expected to be concluded by the end of 2026.

    The company said that more than 65% of the proceeds from the disposal, amounting to RM27.31 million, will be used to fund the ongoing construction of its NexV Manufacturing vehicle assembly plant in the Chembong Industrial Area in Rembau, Negeri Sembilan. It added that another RM13.36 million of the proceeds has been earmarked for the repayment of borrowings related to the construction of the facility.

    Careplus sells off Careplus Mall for RM42 mil, to use proceeds to complete NexV Manufacturing plant

    The plant is being developed on a 74-acre plot of industrial land, with an estimated construction cost of RM150 million. The project was announced in 2023 as a joint venture between Careplus and GoAuto Group, and in early 2024, it was reported that work on the plant had begun, and that it was set to be ready by 2025, which is not the case, given the latest indication of its build status.

    The question is which carmakers the NexV manufacturing hub will build for when it is ready. The original intent of setting up the plant was for it to assemble Neta EVs, but the latter has effectively vanished from the scene, In 2024, the company inked a deal with Central Auto Distributors (CADB) a subsidiary of Malay Vehicle Importers and Traders Association of Malaysia (Pekema), to assemble the Dongfeng Box when it was up and running.

    Now that Dongfeng has seen a stewardship change here, will the plant still handle assembly of the brand’s models? It could well do so, as Volt Auto has said that it has CKD plans for the brand, aiming to kick off the programme this year. It has however not revealed the identity of the local assembly partner. The answers, in due course.

     

  • Malaysian fuel prices July 9-15, 2026 – all unchanged

    In Local News, Malaysian Fuel Prices / by /

    Malaysian fuel prices July 9-15, 2026 – all unchanged

    Today is Wednesday, which means it is once again time for the weekly fuel price update as announced by the finance ministry for the week of July 9 to 15, 2026.

    This week, the priced of unsubsidised B10/B15 diesel is RM3.97 per litre, unchanged from the price of last week. The Euro 5 B7 blend of diesel, which is 20 sen per litre more than the B10/B15 blends, is therefore at RM4.17 per litre.

    Effective from July 1, the subsidised retail price B10 and B15 blends of diesel fuels for Malaysian citizens is RM2.10 per litre, applicable nationwide at a quota of 200 litres per month, shared with Budi95 for eligible users.

    Malaysian fuel prices July 9-15, 2026 – all unchanged

    For petrol, the price of unsubsidised RON 95 is also unchanged from the RM3.37 per litre price of last week, and the same applies for RON 97 petrol, which stays at RM4.00 per litre.

    The price of subsidised RON 95 petrol under the Budi Madani RON 95 (Budi95) scheme remains at RM1.99 per litre, with Malaysians holding a valid driving licence being eligible for the fuel at a monthly quota that is temporarily adjusted to 200 litres per month.

    These prices take effect from midnight tonight until Wednesday, July 15, 2026. This is the 29th edition of the weekly fuel pricing format for 2026, and the 392nd in total since the format was introduced at the start of 2019.

     

  • KTM offering 20% discount on 7,464 extra ETS seats this weekend, July 10-12, for Johor state elections

    In Local News, Public Transport / by /

    KTM offering 20% discount on 7,464 extra ETS seats this weekend, July 10-12, for Johor state elections

    Heading back home to vote in the Johor state elections this Saturday? You might want to take the train. KTM is offering a 20% discount for the extra ETS train services it is providing from July 10-12, to help those who are fulfilling their voting responsibilities.

    KTM says that the extra ETS train services is in response to high demand for southbound trains, after tickets from a June 19 release were sold out. As such, the train operator is adding four services for the KL Sentral – JB Sentral – KL Sentral route, and another four for JB Sentral – Gemas – JB Sentral from July 10-12.

    With 312 seats for each train, KTM is offering 2,488 extra seats a day, which makes it 7,464 extra tickets across the three days.

    “KTM urges the public, especially those from outside of Johor, or those based in different districts in Johor, to take advantage of the extra ETS services to head home and fulfil your duties as a voter. KTM continues to support the government’s aspirations in strengthening the ‘Road to Rail’ initiative by encouraging people to use public transport, especially rail services as a more comfortable, faster and safer choice,” the company said in a statement.

    Tickets can be purchased on the KITS Style app, KTM’s official website or kiosks at selected stations. Reach the station 30 minutes before departure time. Doors will close five minutes before the train heads off.

    If you don’t already know, KTM’s ETS train service has been serving Johor all the way to JB Sentral since December 2025 when the tracks from Kluang to JB opened, adding stops at Rengam, Layang-Layang, Kulai and Kempas Baru along the way. Last month, KTM Shuttle Selatan started operations, connecting Kulai, Kempas Baru and Pasir Gudang to JB Sentral.

     

  • Polestar 4 SUV teased – more practical with rear windscreen, 630 km WLTP, still 400V, Sept 2 debut

    In Cars, International News, Polestar / by /

    Polestar 4 SUV teased – more practical with rear windscreen, 630 km WLTP, still 400V, Sept 2 debut

    Hoping to broaden the appeal of its best-selling SUV “coupé”, Polestar will soon introduce a more practical version of the 4, simply called the Polestar 4 SUV. Announced in February, the car comes at a critical point of the company’s history, which has just gone through a major setback.

    But first, the car. The sole teaser shows a conventional SUV rear end (rather than the estate-like body style as was previously announced) as opposed to the sloping roofline of the regular 4, now called the 4 coupé. The original’s rising window line melds seamlessly with the more upright D-pillars, bringing to mind the latest BMW X3. Notably, Polestar is returning to fitting a rear windscreen on its cars, having ditched it for the 4 coupé and 5.

    It also appears the SUV will retain the 4 coupé angular full-width taillights – as seen in a previous teaser – as well as the intricate 22-inch wheels from the Performance pack. Despite appearing redundant next to the 3, the 4 SUV will actually be slightly smaller, built on the 4 coupé’s Sustainable Experience Architecture (SEA) rather than the larger model’s Scalable Product Architecture 2 (SPA 2).

    Polestar 4 SUV teased – more practical with rear windscreen, 630 km WLTP, still 400V, Sept 2 debut

    Just like the coupé, the SUV will be available in rear motor and dual motor variants, with the latter sending 544 PS (400 kW) to all four wheels. The rear-drive version should retain the same 272 PS (200 kW) and is claimed to have a WLTP-rated range of 630 km – ten kilometres more than the coupé, despite the latter seemingly having a slipperier shape.

    Unfortunately, the 4 SUV will not graduate to an 800-volt architecture, unlike many of its SEA-based siblings from elsewhere in the Geely group, as well as the 3. That means DC fast charging will likely continue to be capped at 200 kW, taking 30 minutes for the 102 kWh NMC battery to be topped up from 10 to 80%.

    The SUV is slated to debut on September 2, but it will have lost out on a lucrative market, as this announcement comes just weeks after Polestar was banned from selling cars in the US due to its Chinese links. It’s a bitter blow, with the brand reconfiguring its plans to centre around Europe, where 80% of its sales originate.

    GALLERY: Polestar 4 coupé

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  • Toyota Aqua GR Sport launched in Japan – sporty Prius c with suspension tweaks, 1.5L hybrid; RM81k

    In Cars, International News, Toyota / by /

    Toyota Aqua GR Sport launched in Japan – sporty Prius c with suspension tweaks, 1.5L hybrid; RM81k

    After giving the second-generation Toyota Aqua a facelift last September, the Japanese automaker has now introduced a new GR Sport grade of the hybrid hatchback. Priced at 3,238,400 yen (about RM81k), the GR Sport is the most expensive grade of the Aqua on sale in Japan, with the lesser Z, G and X grades going for between 2.497 million and 3,072,300 yen (RM62k and RM77k) inclusive of local consumption tax.

    As a brief recap, the facelift for the Aqua (also known as the Prius c) introduces a new front end that brings the model in line with recent Toyota models (think Camry and Prius). This means the “hammerhead face” with a light bar connecting the daytime running lights that are integrated above the main headlamps. Other visual changes a body-coloured section that splits the upper and lower intakes, the latter now wider and bookended by horizontal fog lamps.

    With the GR Sport, the Aqua gains a more aggressive front bumper with angled sections for the fog lamps and side spoilers. The rear bumper is also different with a prominent honeycomb-patterned insert and a diffuser-like element. Elsewhere, there are 17-inch aluminium wheels in a specific GR Sport design that go over red-painted brake callipers, while GR badges are fitted front and rear.

    Inside, you’ll find sports seats trimmed in nubuck and synthetic leather with the GR logo adorning the integrated headrests. Toyota also touts gunmetal trim accents, a leather-wrapped three-spoke steering wheel, aluminium pedals and a GR-branded key fob.

    Mechanically, the GR Sport is identical to standard Aqua grades with its M15A-FXE 1.5 litre naturally-aspirated inline-three petrol engine delivering 91 PS (90 hp or 67 kW) and 120 Nm of torque. The engine is paired with an E-CVT and two electric motors, the latter including a 1MM generator unit rated at 6.4 PS (6.3 hp or 4.7 kW) and 52 Nm.

    Meanwhile the other 1NM unit is a traction motor serving up 80 PS (79 hp or 59 kW) and 141 Nm, with the total system output being 116 PS (114 hp or 85 kW). A five Ah nickel metal hydride (NiMH) battery is at the heart of the hybrid system.

    While the powertrain is familiar, the GR Sport gets some tweaks for a sportier feel. These include a specific mapping for its electronic power steering system, dedicated suspension tuning as well as an underbody brace and rear bumper reinforcement.

    Toyota also says the GR Sport gets more standard equipment like a 10.5-inch touchscreen head unit, panoramic view monitor and the comfort package, which includes steering wheel and seat heating, a passenger seat back pocket and sun visors with a vanity mirror.

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  • Own a new or pre-owned Mercedes-Benz at the Star Bonanza by Hap Seng Star Setia Alam, July 11 to 12

    ADVERTORIAL / by /

    Own a new or pre-owned Mercedes-Benz at the Star Bonanza by Hap Seng Star Setia Alam, July 11 to 12

    There are few rivals to the three-pointed star for automotive prestige and luxury, and Mercedes-Benz is undoubtedly an aspirational brand, for a wide selection of segments thanks to its generous product range.

    Those aspirations stand to be more attainable this weekend with the Star Bonanza, which takes place at Hap Seng Star Setia Alam from July 11 to 12, from 10am to 5pm. Admission is free of charge.

    A wide selection of certified pre-owned Mercedes-Benz and Mercedes-AMG vehicles will be available for you to choose from; these include the A 200, A 250, C 200, C 350 e, C 43, E 200, E 350 e, GLA 200, GLA 250, GLA 35, GLB 200, GLB 250, GLC 350 e, GLC 43, GLE 450, EQS 500, and the EQS 580.

    This will be your chance to browse from the selection and find the right Mercedes-Benz or Mercedes-AMG vehicle for you, and you can own one from RM140,000*. Choosing from the range of readily available vehicles means immediate availability a quicker path to ownership, while Agility+ financing makes ownership of your brand-new Mercedes-Benz or Mercedes-AMG even more accessible, from RM1,988 a month.

    The Star Bonanza by Hap Seng Star Setia Alam will offer opportunities for test drives, light refreshments including coffee, a display of merchandise that you can purchase from, and family-friendly activities including football games and a DIY activity corner.

    Throughout the two-day event, visitors can take advantage of exclusive offers including attractive MyMercedesRewards and AgilityRewards on purchases of new Mercedes-Benz vehicles, attractive financing packages, along with limited-time exclusive rewards.

    Certainly, you’ll get to try before you buy; test drives are offered for a selection of models from the latest Mercedes-Benz line-up, including ICE-powered, PHEV, fully electric EQ and high-performance AMG models.

    These include premium merchandise upon completion of a test drive, exclusive booking rewards for the first 50 bookings of Certified Pre-Owned vehicles, booking rewards for selected vehicles, as well as a lucky draw with the bookings of selected vehicles; here, you stand to win a travel voucher worth RM10,000.

    There’s more. In partnership with The Living Centre, visitors to the Star Bonanza can also take part in the Microcirculation Test, a quick wellness assessment designed to provide insights into one’s overall circulatory health. Visitors to the event will also receive a free health screening voucher, redeemable for a health screening package at The Living Centre for consultation and awareness on proactive health management.

    This weekend, the Star Bonanza will be your chance to take up ownership of a new or certified pre-owned Mercedes-Benz or Mercedes-AMG vehicle, so be sure to head to Hap Seng Star Setia Alam, July 11 and 12, from 10am to 5pm. Admission is free of charge.

    For more information, call 03-3362 1068, or visit the Hap Seng Star Setia Alam website, Facebook page and Instagram account to find out more.

    *Applicable to Mercedes-Benz Certified Pre-Owned and selected models.

    *terms and conditions apply.

     

  • Min CIF for CBU EVs curbs under-declaration – Sim

    In Cars, Electric Cars in Malaysia, Local News / by /

    Min CIF for CBU EVs curbs under-declaration – Sim

    Malaysian deputy investment, trade and industry (MITI) minister Sim Tze Tzin today said in the Dewan Rakyat that setting a minimum cost, insurance and freight (CIF) value for fully-imported (CBU) EVs helps to curb under-declaration and maintain government revenue collection, Bernama reports.

    Julau MP Datuk Larry Soon @ Larry Sng Wei Shien was asking why the RM200k CIF and 180 kW (245 PS) floors were only imposed on CBU EVs. Sim replied that the government takes a different approach to EVs and ICE vehicles as they were at differing stages of industrial development.

    “For EVs, the government needs to balance two objectives simultaneously, namely accelerating the use of EVs among the rakyat and developing the local assembly industry, supply chain and the entire EV ecosystem so that Malaysia is not just a consumer market.

    Min CIF for CBU EVs curbs under-declaration – Sim

    “Besides, the tax and incentive structure for EVs is different from ICE vehicles. Currently, the excise duty rate for EVs is only 10%, much lower than for ICE vehicles, whose excise duty rate depends on engine capacity, vehicle type and level of localisation,” Sim said.

    EVs’ lower excise duty rate makes determining their import value more critical to ensure the tax is calculated accurately, he explained, adding that having a minimum CIF value lowers the risk of declaring an import value lower than the actual value.

    “Hence, setting a minimum CIF value is one of the policy mechanisms to reduce the scope for under-declaration and ensure that government revenue collection continues to be maintained,” he said.

     

  • Enjoy rebates up to RM50,500 on new Volvos at the Swedish Auto Close Door Special Deals – July 10-12

    ADVERTORIAL / by /

    Enjoy rebates up to RM50,500 on new Volvos at the Swedish Auto Close Door Special Deals – July 10-12

    The most exclusive offers await you at Swedish Auto’s Close Door Special Deals, which takes place over three days from July 10-12, 2026 at Volvo Ara Damansara.

    With classy Scandinavian design, efficient powertrains, innovative technologies and comprehensive safety, Volvo cars provide a unique driving experience that isn’t easily replicated. If you fancy owning one with savings of up to RM50,500, this is the opportunity you’ve been waiting for.

    On offer is the latest XC60, a core model in Volvo’s line-up that fits the requirements of most families with its manageable size and practical interior. Refreshed for 2026, the XC60 can be yours with rebates of up to RM18,000. Should you need something larger, the XC90 provides three-row seating and comes with rebates of up to RM50,500.

    For those who want to make the transition to an electric vehicle (EV), the Volvo line-up isn’t short of models to suit your lifestyle. The ES90 combines a sedan and SUV to deliver a luxurious form of transport that you can take home with a rebate of up to RM20,000 as well as a complimentary wallbox.

    The EC40, a coupe-styled electric SUV, is also being offered with rebates of up to RM30,000 if you’re looking for something that makes city navigating effortless while also being spacious enough for company or shopping.

    Need something even smaller? Look no further than the EX30, which is packaged intelligently to fulfil or even exceed what you think a compact SUV is capable of. Yours with rebates of up to RM30,888. Even greater savings can be had if you opt for certified demo units, which are available at over RM100,000 off.

    As World Cup fever is in full swing, Swedish Auto will also be hosting a live screening of the quarter final game between Argentina and Switzerland on Sunday (July 12), so come on by to soak in the atmosphere wide likeminded football fans.

    Swedish Auto’s Close Door Special Deals is where you want to be to find your dream Volvo while also enjoying the World Cup, so head on over to Swedish Auto’s official Facebook or Instagram for more details. Bring your loved ones, wear the colours and be ready for an electrifying experience.

    *Terms and conditions apply.

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  • More EV chargers require more substations; gov’t working with TNB, CPOs to advance ecosystem – Sim

    In Cars, Electric Cars in Malaysia, Local News / by /

    More EV chargers require more substations; gov’t working with TNB, CPOs to advance ecosystem – Sim

    Malaysian deputy investment, trade and industry (MITI) minister Sim Tze Tzin today said in the Dewan Rakyat that the government is refining its policies and incentives to accelerate EV ecosystem development, including expanding charging facilities nationwide, Bernama reports.

    “The construction of charging facilities requires substations to ensure adequate power supply,” he said, adding that the government is working with several stakeholders including Tenaga Nasional Berhad (TNB) to build more power substations, and is holding discussions to provide incentives to charging facility operators (CPO) in order to promote the construction of more chargers.

    “If there are no substations, no party can build charging facilities as the power supply is insufficient. Hence, this effort requires incentives, appropriate policies and the development of the entire ecosystem.

    More EV chargers require more substations; gov’t working with TNB, CPOs to advance ecosystem – Sim

    “It takes time, but the government has taken note of the suggestions put forth and will work to improve implementation,” said Sim.

    Malaysia fell very short of its 10,000-public EV charger nationwide target by end-2025. MITI minister Datuk Seri Johari Abdul Ghani revealed a few months back that on the last day of 2025, the number was 5,624 (1,923 of them DC, or 34%).

    We’d normally visit PLANMalaysia’s national electric vehicle charging network (MEVnet) dashboard for the latest number, but it appears to be temporarily closed – a notice on the website says: “Data updates and dashboard management are temporarily suspended for the process of handing over the custodianship mandate from the Malaysian Green Technology and Climate Change Corporation (MGTC) to the Malaysia Automotive, Robotics and IoT Institute (MARii).”

     

  • Denza Z to debut at Goodwood July 9 – coupé, Spider and track-biased variants; up to 1,604 PS

    In Cars, Denza, International News / by /

    Denza Z to debut at Goodwood July 9 – coupé, Spider and track-biased variants; up to 1,604 PS

    Shown as a concept at last year’s Auto Shanghai show, then as a production-ready Spider convertible in Beijing earlier this year, the Denza Z will finally make its debut at the Goodwood Festival of Speed tomorrow, July 9. Teasers indicate that the electric supercar will be showcased in track-ready form akin to the initial show car, likely to be driven up Lord March’s famous Sussex hillclimb.

    Despite the images offering little in the way of details, we can see that the Z’s design is pretty much unchanged from the last time it was shown, with its sweptback headlights, strong haunches, air inlets ahead of the rear wheels and quad diamond-shaped taillights.

    We can also see plenty of exterior addenda unique to the so-called Track Edition, namely the more aggressive front splitter and the massive rear wing. One can also spot the vented front fenders, while the wheels are large 21-inch multi-spoke alloys shod with Pirelli P Zero tyres.

    While we don’t get a look at the interior, we expect to follow the Spider closely, with a racy three-spoke steering wheel with a button for a Boost mode, a large infotainment touchscreen, a bridge-style centre console with a Qi wireless charger and a cupholder, and heavily-bolstered seats. While the droptop is a four-seater, the Track Edition will likely seat two, just like last year’s concept.

    Preliminary specs from a Chinese ministry of industry and information technology (MIIT) filing, reported by Autohome, suggest that the Z’s performance has grown significantly from initial projections. Similar to the Z9GT, the car will feature a triple-motor setup, but power has been bumped up to a ridiculous 1,604 PS (1,180 kW), which is more than the standard (not the Xtreme) Yangwang U9.

    This is claimed to enable the car to get from zero to 100 km/h in under three seconds on its way to a top speed of 300 km/h. Like the Z9GT, the Z is expected to gain BYD’s latest second-generation Blade LFP battery to support the brand’s 1,500 kW DC Flash Charging, topping it up from 10 to 70% in five minutes and from 10 to 97% in nine minutes. It will also debut new DiSus-M magnetorheological dampers and rear-wheel steering that allows the car to rotate on the spot in combination with the three motors.

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    GALLERY: Denza Z Concept at Auto Shanghai 2025
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    GALLERY: Denza Z Spider at Auto China 2026
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  • Johor polls: Heavier traffic expected on highways, 300k outstation voters expected to travel for election

    In Local News / by /

    Johor polls: Heavier traffic expected on highways, 300k outstation voters expected to travel for election

    More than 300,000 voters are expected to travel home for the Johor state election taking place this Saturday, July 11, leading to heavier traffic on major highways, Malaysian Highway Authority (LLM) chairman Datuk Seri Hasni Mohammad has said, reported The Star. Motorists travelling to, or through Johor should plan their journeys in advance to avoid traffic congestion during the polling period, Hasni said.

    “To ensure a safe and smooth journey on the highways, lane closure works will be suspended on polling day on July 11, except for emergency works,” he said a statement. Motorists are also advised to plan their journeys, ensure their vehicles are in good condition, and have sufficient balance in their Touch ‘n Go cards, e-wallets or debit and credit cards before travelling.

    Road users are advised to observe speed limits and exercise extra caution when passing through the ongoing third-lane construction site on the North-South Expressway between Simpang Renggam and Senai (North), and drivers are urged to follow instructions when Smart Lanes are activated, and to use designated rest and service areas (R&Rs) and laybys when taking breaks.

    The latest traffic updates and information on highway incidents can be obtained through the official LLM Facebook page, or by contacting the LLM traffic management centre at 1-800-88-7752.

     

  • Xiaomi announces new SkyNomad sub-brand – first model to go on sale is an EREV SUV called the N90

    In Cars, International News, Xiaomi / by /

    Xiaomi announces new SkyNomad sub-brand – first model to go on sale is an EREV SUV called the N90

    After receiving regulatory approval from China’s ministry of industry and information technology (MIIT) to build extended-range electric vehicles (EREVs) in June this year, Xiaomi has announced a new sub-brand that will sell cars with such powertrains.

    On its official Weibo page, the company revealed its new brand will carry the name ‘SkyNomad’, with media outlets saying it will be known as Xiaomi Pengcheng in China. Through SkyNomad, Xiaomi will be able to diversify its line-up that currently features just electric vehicles (EVs).

    Xiaomi announces new SkyNomad sub-brand – first model to go on sale is an EREV SUV called the N90

    The first SkyNomad model is the N90, a full-size SUV with an EREV powertrain that reportedly has a 1.5 litre turbocharged engine acting solely as a generator. This juices a battery pack that is used to power electric motors to drive the wheels. CarNewsChina reports the battery will have an energy capacity of over 70 kWh for between 400-500 km of electric-only range, while the hybrid range is north of 1,500 km.

    Other details about the N90 include a length of 5.3 metres and wheelbase spanning 3.1 metres, with five- and seven-seat layouts offered. Spyshots indicate the N90 (internal codename Kunlun N3) will have large headlamps, a roof-mounted LiDAR and electrically powered door steps.

     

  • Leapmotor C10 Plus full gallery in Malaysia – limited YOM2025 CBU units of the 800V EV on sale fr RM129k

    In Cars, Electric Cars in Malaysia, Leapmotor, Local News / by /

    Leapmotor C10 Plus full gallery in Malaysia – limited YOM2025 CBU units of the 800V EV on sale fr RM129k

    Launched in Malaysia in February, the Leapmotor C10 Plus is the newest version of the zero-emissions D-segment SUV you can buy today (new facelift in China notwithstanding). It now starts from RM129k (was RM139k including a RM9k launch rebate) and stocks of the fully-imported (CBU) car, all manufactured in 2025, are limited.

    We understand there are no plans to locally assemble (CKD) this 800-volt variant, which likely means its days are numbered, considering MITI’s tough new CBU EV rules. Yes, the C10’s CKD programme has begun at Stellantis Gurun, but that’s of the 400-volt car.

    Anyway, the Plus has a 81.9-kWh LFP battery, a 510-km WLTP range, 180 kW DC charging (30-80% in 22 minutes), one 299 PS/360 Nm rear motor, a 6.2-second 0-100 km/h time and a 190 km/h top speed. Every number in the previous sentence betters the regular C10, which is a 400-volt EV.

    Otherwise, the Plus and the regular C10 are quite similarly equipped – 11 kW AC charging, a 32-litre frunk, a 435-litre boot (fold the back seats down for 1,410 litres), 20-inch alloys with 245/45 tyres, auto high beam, a panoramic sunroof, seven airbags, full ADAS, TPMS, a 10.25-inch instrument panel, a 14.6-inch touch-screen and 12 speakers.

    Yup, still no Apple CarPlay/Android Auto nor powered door handles, and there’s still that much-maligned NFC key card, but at least there’s now an app that turns your phone into the car key. Just walk up to the car and it unlocks, get in, press the brake pedal, enter a four-digit password and you’re good to go. To lock the car, simply walk away.

    It has to be said that the digital key runs on Bluetooth rather than the ultra-wideband (UWB) used by Tesla and BMW, so accuracy and detection rates are not as superior. Still, RM129k is quite good value for a large 800-volt EV like this, we think. Check out our mega gallery below.

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  • MCE Auto Hub in Serendah opens – Tier-1 auto vendor’s RM50m plant to design, produce electronics

    In Local News / by /

    MCE Auto Hub in Serendah opens – Tier-1 auto vendor’s RM50m plant to design, produce electronics

    MCE Holdings officially launched the MCE Auto Hub yesterday afternoon in a ceremony officiated by minister of investment, trade and industry Datuk Seri Johari Abdul Ghani. The RM50 million manufacturing facility is located in the UMW High Value Manufacturing Park in Serendah, Selangor.

    The Bursa-listed Tier-1 automotive supplier says that MCE Auto Hub will strengthen its design, engineering, manufacturing and R&D capabilities.

    Described as the company’s primary manufacturing and engineering hub, the eight-acre facility forms the first phase of MCE’s long-term investment plan of up to RM200 million and will more than double the group’s production capacity in automotive electronics and mechatronic solutions.

    MCE Auto Hub in Serendah opens – Tier-1 auto vendor’s RM50m plant to design, produce electronics

    “This investment marks a significant step in the continued development of Malaysia’s automotive industry and is a reflection of the confidence in both MCE Holdings and Malaysia’s future. In a highly competitive industry, it is imperative that local suppliers continue to pursue manufacturing excellence by cultivating engineering expertise, innovation and technology,” Johari said.

    “From our first contract supplying remote alarms and central locking systems for the domestic market in 1990, MCE has continuously invested in strengthening our capabilities. Over the years, we have expanded our portfolio from traditional automotive components into more advanced automotive electronics and mechatronic solutions,” said Goh Kar Chun, group MD of MCE.

    “Today, we serve customers across Malaysia, ASEAN and the United States, supplying increasingly sophisticated automotive electronics and mechatronic solutions. The MCE Auto Hub is the next step in that journey and reflects our confidence that Malaysian engineering, talent and manufacturing capabilities can compete on the world stage,” he added.

    Designed as an Industry 4.0-ready plant, the MCE Auto Hub incorporates clean room production areas and tightly controlled manufacturing environments required for increasingly advanced automotive electronics for both ICE and EVs. With this Serendah facility operational, the Johor-based group now employs 680 staff, including 90 engineers. MCE’s other facilities are in Johor Bahru and Port Klang.

    “We believe the future of Malaysia’s automotive industry will be built through stronger collaboration between carmakers, Tier-1 suppliers and local ecosystem players, including semiconductor and E&E companies. Working together, we can create more opportunities for Malaysian-developed technologies to be integrated into automotive applications and supply chains, while strengthening Malaysia’s position as a regional hub for automotive electronics,” Goh said.

     

  • Range Rover Velar successor to debut by early next year; internal combustion engine version to follow

    In Cars, International News, Land Rover / by /

    Range Rover Velar successor to debut by early next year; internal combustion engine version to follow

    2024 Range Rover Velar facelift

    The successor to the Range Rover Velar could make its debut within the next six months, reported Autocar, suggesting that the new model could officially emerge by early next year.

    Facelifted in 2023, the Velar officially made its debut in 2017, and its next-generation successor will be the first all-new model from JLR since the Range Rover Sport premiered in 2022. The Velar successor will be preceded by the L460 Range Rover Electric and the Jaguar Type 01, before the group’s higher-volume products such as the aforementioned Velar successor and the Land Rover Defender Sport.

    The Velar successor and the Defender Sport will be the first models to be built on the group’s new EMA platform, which is focused on battery-electric power. However, this has since been confirmed to be able to accommodate hybrid powertrains.

    Range Rover Velar successor to debut by early next year; internal combustion engine version to follow

    The manufacturer has said that the upcoming, smaller Range Rover model “is planned to provide flexibility in the future through a full hybrid electric vehicle propulsion offering,” and the hybrid powertrain for the new model is said to be a “unique new addition to JLR’s propulsion portfolio,” suggesting it is unrelated to the ICE units currently offered by the group.

    Spy images of the upcoming Velar replacement show a vehicle that departs from the traditional high-riding, two-box SUV outline, and adopts a rather sleeker roofline in the vein of the Polestar 4 when viewed in profile. Camouflage foil on the rear of the car, aft of the roof suggests a solid panel in place of a traditional glass window, like the Polestar 4.

    Technical details for the EMA platform have yet to be confirmed by the manufacturer, though it has been said to feature 800-volt electrical hardware as specified in the Range Rover Electric.

    Batteries for the EV successor to the Velar will come from the battery factory in Somerset currently under construction, which will supply the Halewood plant where the new mid-sized EV SUV will be built, as well as Solihull, where the Range Rover Electric and Jaguar EVs will be built.

     

  • 2026 Geely Preface L90 teased – based on Galaxy Starshine 7 with 1.5T and 2.0T petrol, i-HEV hybrid

    In Cars, Geely, International News / by /

    2026 Geely Preface L90 teased – based on Galaxy Starshine 7 with 1.5T and 2.0T petrol, i-HEV hybrid

    Geely is set to replace the Preface/Xingrui after nearly six years on the market with a second-generation model, slated for a reveal on July 10. Like the new Emgrand, the large sedan – which will receive the L90 suffix – will be based on a Galaxy new energy vehicle (NEV), in this case the Galaxy Starshine 7.

    A teaser photo of the side profile corresponds to images from a Chinese ministry of industry and information technology (MIIT), showing a design very similar to the Starshine 7, albeit with a revised front end with a more angular six-point grille and an X-shaped bumper. The rear has also been tweaked with different full-width taillights and twin trapezoidal tailpipes.

    Preliminary specifications reported by Autohome indicate that the Preface L90’s dimensions will be all but identical to the Starshine 7, measuring 4,956 mm long (two millimetres shorter), 1,915 mm wide and 1,505 mm tall, with a wheelbase stretching 2,845 mm.

    The big difference, of course, can be found under the bonnet. Whereas the Starshine 7 is a plug-in hybrid, the Preface L90 is available with a choice of turbo four-cylinder petrol engines carried over from the outgoing model – a 181 PS/290 Nm 1.5 litre unit and a 272 PS/400 Nm 2.0 litre mill. Both are expected to be mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, as is the case for the current car.

    Also set to be carried over is the i-HEV hybrid, which retains the Starshine 7’s 111 PS/136 Nm 1.5 litre naturally-aspirated engine, 190 PS/240 Nm electric motor and 11-in-one single-speed dedicated hybrid transmission (DHT) but dispenses with the large 28.3 kWh battery. The powertrain, introduced on the Preface just this year, delivers a quoted combined fuel efficiency figure of 25.1 km per litre (3.98 litres per 100 km).

    The i-HEV system is set to make its way into a Proton this year – the national carmaker showcased the FutureMotion HEV at the recent Kuala Lumpur International Motor Show (KLIMS). The powertrain, with a detuned 163 PS electric motor, is expected to debut in a new A-segment SUV, widely tipped to be called the Saga Cross.

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  • Chevrolet Takata airbag recall for Cruze, Orlando, Sonic, Trax – send to Honda Malaysia service centres

    In Cars, Chevrolet, Local News / by /

    Chevrolet Takata airbag recall for Cruze, Orlando, Sonic, Trax – send to Honda Malaysia service centres

    Four years ago, Chevrolet issued a recall for 3,725 units of Chevrolet and Saab vehicles in Malaysia to replace potentially faulty Takata airbag inflators. A reminder for this was sent out in 2023, and now, Chevrolet Sales Thailand (CST) has sent out another communication for the Malaysian market regarding the recall campaign, which remains ongoing.

    In its statement, the company said that this is the final opportunity for owners to replace the Takata airbag replacement for free while the current local support arrangement in Malaysia remains available until December 2026. The replacement is performed free of charge.

    Once the current Malaysia-based support arrangement concludes, owners who have not yet completed the repair will need to access the free replacement through designated service locations in Singapore (Alpine Motors) and Thailand (Autosales, located in Yala).

    It said that the current reminder was being made as the recall campaign for the affected vehicles has seen a lower-than-expected response rate since it was launched around mid-2022. The company had already stated back in 2023 that because the affected vehicles were not new, it had been difficult to trace customers and owners due to outdated customer data, but the latest outreach is an effort to get word to owners of these vehicles.

    To recap, the recall affects the following models:

    • Chevrolet Cruze (model year 2010–2015)
    • Chevrolet Orlando (model year 2013–2015)
    • Chevrolet Sonic (model year 2013–2014)
    • Chevrolet Trax (model year 2017)
    • Saab 9-3 (model year 2007)

    As highlighted previously, the affected vehicles may be fitted with driver airbag inflators that contain non-desiccated PSAN (phase-stabilized ammonium nitrate) propellant tablets, which may experience alteration after exposure to high temperature and daylight temperature cycles in a high humidity environment.

    As a result, the inflator may rupture if gas generation exceeds the ability of the inflator to vent the gas. This can result in an increased rate of pressurisation and peak pressures that can exceed the mechanical strength of the inflator, causing the housing to rupture.

    Like it was when the recall was first made, the local replacement programme is being carried out in collaboration with Honda Malaysia (HMSB) through selected authorised dealerships. However, this will conclude in December 2026, and the brand is encouraging owners to use HMSB’s local network before the arrangement ends.

    To support affected vehicle owners in Malaysia after December 2026, CST will continue to make information on available recall remedy options and customer contact channels available through the CST recall website. You’ll find all the details you need about the recall campaign here, as well as the list of Honda dealerships that are providing the free replacement service.

     

  • Gov’t will ensure sufficient petroleum from Jul to Dec

    In Local News, Malaysian Fuel Prices / by /

    Gov’t will ensure sufficient petroleum from Jul to Dec

    The Malaysian economy ministry has said that the government will continue ensuring there are secure and sufficient levels of petroleum from July to December, Bernama reports.

    It said that as of June, the nation’s oil and fuel supplies remained stable and sufficient for domestic demand, following the government’s proactive measures implemented in phases since disruptions began in the Strait of Hormuz on February 28.

    “Brent crude oil prices, which peaked at US$144.50 (RM590) per barrel in early April, declined to US$99.29 (RM405) per barrel between June 1 and 5, reflecting increasingly positive market sentiment following progress in peace negotiations.

    Gov’t will ensure sufficient petroleum from Jul to Dec

    “The government is, however, not taking the situation lightly, as physical supply constraints and declining global inventories persist,” the ministry said in a written reply on the Dewan Rakyat website today.

    “The government has implemented several measures to safeguard oil supply security, including diversifying petroleum supply sources, optimising domestic fuel supply through biodiesel, preventing leakages through enforcement, and carrying out data-driven monitoring,” it added.

    From just RM700 million in January, Malaysian fuel subsidies ballooned to RM5 billion in March before peaking at RM7.5 billion the following month, due to the rise in global oil prices brought about by the ongoing West Asian conflict. The government is currently projected to spend RM2 billion and RM1.5 billion a month to subsidise RON 95 petrol and diesel respectively.

     

  • VinFast VF2 launched in Vietnam – budget city EV with 41 PS, 210 km NEDC EV range; priced at just RM29k

    In Cars, International News, VinFast / by /

    VinFast VF2 launched in Vietnam – budget city EV with 41 PS, 210 km NEDC EV range; priced at just RM29k

    Vietnamese automaker VinFast has unveiled the VF2, a four-seat electric city car designed to make car ownership more accessible for consumers in its home market. Priced at just 188 million Vietnamese dong (about RM29k), the VF2 will be open for bookings on July 15 this year, with deliveries expected to commence later in September 2026.

    In terms of specifications, the VF2 is equipped with an 18.3-kWh battery pack that powers a rear electric motor rated at 41 PS (40 hp or 30 kW) and 65 Nm of torque. Given these figures, the performance is modest, with the VF2 capable of a top speed of 80 km/h and a range of up to 210 km following the NEDC standard.

    Drivers will have Eco and Normal driving modes to choose from, while DC fast charging is at a peak of 24 kW to get the battery from a 10-70% state of charge in approximately 34 minutes. VinFast also touts MacPherson struts front and rear, and the electric vehicle (EV) comes with a driver’s airbag, ABS, traction control and EBD.

    The VF2 can be considered as VinFast’s attempt at emulating other compact EVs like Geely’s Panda Mini EV and Wuling’s Mini EV. Measuring 3,090 mm long, 1,496 mm wide, 1,663 mm tall and with a wheelbase of 2,065 mm, the VinFast model has comparable dimensions to those cars and features a similar boxy design.

    As for the interior, it is as barebones as they come, with highlighted features being a seven-inch driver information display, manual air-conditioning, manually-operated seats and two integrated speakers with FM radio. The rest of the kit list includes near-round LED headlamps and 13-inch alloy wheels made to look like steelies.

    VinFast says the price of the VF2 includes the battery as well as ten free charging sessions per month at V-Green public charging stations nationwide through February 10, 2029. It notes that the objective of this is so the ownership cost of the VF2 is comparable to that of a premium motorcycle.

    To make it even more affordable, customers who place a non-refundable deposit of VND10 million (RM1.6k) between July 15 and 17 will receive a discount of VND8 million (RM1.2k). The deposit can be transferred to immediate family members, including parents, spouses, children, siblings or to companies owned by the person placing it.

     

  • JPJ eBid: VRK and CFJ number plates up for bidding

    In Local News / by /

    JPJ has announced that VRK and CFJ are the next number plate series to go up for bidding on its online auction platform, JPJ eBid.

    WP Kuala Lumpur’s latest running number series is ‘VRK’, and it will open for tender on July 11. The bidding period on JPJeBid is five days, ending 10pm on July 15. As usual, the results will be out the following day. The whole process is online now, as it has been for some time, and bidders will get the good (or bad) news via email.

    Also available on JPJ eBid is the Pahang series ‘CFJ’. The bidding period starts on July 18, and will close at 10pm on July 22. Results will be out the day after the auction closes.

    New car coming soon and want a nice number plate for the new ride? Why not DIY and skip the reseller’s markup and runner fees? If you have never bid for a number yourself, check out our step-by-step guide on how to navigate JPJ eBid and the techniques needed to get your preferred number at “retail price”.

     
 

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