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  • Deepal patents an in-car foot bath – folds out from under the seat, heated, with massage rollers

    Illustration of Deepal's patented in-car foot bath, based on the patent drawings

    Changan’s Deepal brand wants to let you soak your feet in the car. Deepal Automobile Technology has filed a patent in China for a “vehicle-mounted foot washing device and vehicle”, a basin that folds away into a cavity in the car when it isn’t needed.

    The application was filed with the China National Intellectual Property Administration (CNIPA) on July 31, 2026 and published on October 9 as CN 122873858 A, with Wu Kai and Zhang Biao listed as the inventors.

    Front page of Deepal's foot bath patent application CN 122873858 A, published by CNIPA

    In the patent, Deepal says that on long journeys, occupants’ feet stay in much the same position for hours and can get sore and tired, which is why some cars now come with foot massage or foot care devices. These are usually separate units or fixed in place, so they take up space, and the fixed ones get in the way of occupants’ legs. Deepal’s answer is to hide the basin away when it’s not being used.

    Slides out on rails, then unfolds on a scissor linkage

    The main example in the patent puts the cavity under a seat, formed by the body structure beneath it, and the drawings show the basin sliding out from there. In other versions, it sits in front of the front passenger seat or in the boot, with the patent saying the location can be chosen to suit the cabin and where the occupants sit.

    The basin moves out on guide rails, driven by an electric motor through a lead screw, a rack and pinion or a cable, with dampers to soften the movement and stops at each end. Once it’s out, an X-shaped scissor linkage pushed by a spring unfolds it into a tub.

    The basin has a rigid base and rim, with flexible side walls that collapse when it folds. A lock holds it either folded or open, using spring clips, magnets or both.

    Drawings from Deepal's patent showing the foot bath stowed under the seat and deployed

    To keep the water from sloshing around when the car moves or vibrates, there’s a divider inside the basin with holes in it, which breaks up the flow and stops the water from slamming into the sides. The divider can have a rubber buffer layer and folds up with the basin.

    Drawings of the foot bath's scissor linkage and anti-slosh divider from Deepal's patent

    Plumbed in, heated, with massage rollers and UV cleaning

    The basin is meant to be connected to the car’s power supply, a water supply and a drain line, which the patent says could be a drain pipe added to the vehicle. It hooks up through self-sealing quick couplings with spring-loaded check valves, so it can be unclipped and taken out for cleaning, and it has a manual drain plug for when it’s been removed.

    The heater comes with water level and temperature sensors. It won’t heat if the water is too low, it cuts power if the water gets too hot, and the basin stops filling once the water reaches a set level so it doesn’t overflow. Rollers on the floor of the basin, driven by an electric motor, can do rolling, reciprocating or fixed-point massage.

    It’s all run by a control module linked to the car’s infotainment system over CAN or LIN, which shows the status and lets you adjust the massage mode, water temperature and running time. There’s also a Bluetooth button to extend and stow the basin and to start the massage, heating and draining. After the basin is stowed, UV lamps in the cavity disinfect it.

    Locked out while driving

    The patent also describes a set of interlocks. The basin can’t be extended while the car is being driven, and heating, draining and disinfection are blocked too. Heating, massage and draining won’t start until the basin is fully unfolded, and heating and massage are blocked if the water level is too low. If the water gets too hot, the heater shuts off and an alarm goes off.

    The UV disinfection only runs when the basin is fully stowed and locked, the car is parked or switched off, no one is inside and the device is on standby.

    No word on production

    A patent application doesn’t mean the foot bath will make it into a production car. Deepal hasn’t said which models it could go into or when, and its customer service told Chinese media it had no information on the patent.

    Deepal isn’t sold in Malaysia yet. Bermaz Auto ended its deal to distribute the brand in June without having sold a single car, but Changan said in April that it would enter Malaysia itself in the third or fourth quarter of this year, with the Deepal S05 and S07 among the models being considered.

     
  • ACE 2026 this weekend at SCCC – year-end deals, RM3k vouchers, RM57k lucky draw, JPJ counter

    ACE 2026, powered by Petronas Primax, October 31 to November 1, 2026, Setia City Convention Centre

    The paultan.org Auto Car Expo (ACE) 2026, powered by Petronas Primax, opens this weekend, on Saturday, October 31 and Sunday, November 1, at the Setia City Convention Centre (SCCC) in Setia Alam. Entry is free.

    Twenty-one brands will be at the show with event deals on cars, EVs and motorcycles, and buyers who book at ACE also get rewards from us on top of those deals. Last year, more than 800 buyers took home deals on cars at ACE 2025.

    This is our full guide to the show. It covers our vouchers and lucky draw, the Petronas Primax giveaways, the JPJ Mobile counter, what our co-sponsors are offering and every brand deal announced so far, from Audi to Zeekr.

    When and where

    ACE 2026 is open from 9am to 7pm on both days, in Halls 1 and 2 of SCCC, No. 1, Jalan Setia Dagang AG U13/AG, Setia Alam, 40170 Shah Alam, Selangor.

    There’s visitor parking right in front of the exhibition hall, and Car Park A is about three minutes’ walk away.

    RM3,000 in vouchers for the first 200 bookings

    ACE 2026 RM3,000 vouchers and RM57k lucky draw prizes

    The first 200 new car bookings at the show each get the ACE goodie bag, which holds six vouchers worth RM500 each:

    • RM500 for V-Kool window film
    • RM500 for Dodo car mats
    • RM500 for DK Schweizer premium leather upholstery
    • RM500 for The Carage’s self-healing liquid protection film service
    • RM500 for a Harman Kardon sound system package
    • RM500 for car detailing by Kuzig Glanz Detailing

    The vouchers are only for bookings made at ACE on October 31 and November 1, and both private and company registrations qualify. There are only 200 goodie bags, so it pays to come early.

    RM57,000 lucky draw

    ACE 2026 lucky draw prizes

    Every confirmed booking at the show also goes into the ACE 2026 lucky draw, which has 14 prizes worth RM57,000 in total:

    • Grand prize: a holiday package worth RM10,000 for the winner and a partner, covering travel tickets and accommodation
    • Three sets of Llumar window tint by Jacar, worth RM4,000 each
    • Five DK Schweizer Prestige Leather Upholstery upgrades, worth RM4,000 each
    • Five smartphones, worth RM3,000 each

    The draw takes place after the event, so the winners won’t be picked at the show, and it’s for new car purchases only. To be eligible for the holiday and the smartphones, your booking has to get loan approval from a preferred bank, and the dealer has to deliver the car before January 31, 2027. These two prizes are handed over after the car is delivered.

    Prizes and gifts can’t be exchanged, and terms and conditions apply. There’s more on both in our vouchers and lucky draw story.

    Petronas Primax giveaways at 12pm and 3.30pm

    Title partner Petronas Primax will host giveaway sessions at its booth twice a day, at 12pm and 3.30pm, and no purchase is needed to take part.

    Emcees will pick participants from the crowd for a three-step challenge. Show that you follow @petronasbrands on any social media platform, answer a quiz on Petronas Dagangan Berhad or Petronas, then record a short on-camera testimonial on why you fuel up with Primax 95 or Primax 97.

    Petronas Primax booth at ACE 2026: giveaways at 12pm and 3.30pm, follow @petronasbrands and take the quiz, say why you pick Primax 95 or 97, collect your gift

    Complete it and you collect a gift on the spot. The prizes include the Petronas Mesra Plushie box with limited-edition goodies, official MotoGP merchandise such as a Petronas Grand Prix of Malaysia cap, a Petronas #Speedphoria tote bag, a Sprinta oil bottle keychain with earplugs inside and the Petronas Mesra Box, a blind box with a surprise inside. Get to the booth early to secure a spot in the crowd (more on the Petronas Primax giveaways).

    Petronas Primax prizes at ACE 2026: Mesra Plushie box, MotoGP cap, #Speedphoria tote bag, Sprinta keychain

    Petronas Mesra blind box and Petronas plus MotoGP merchandise giveaways at ACE 2026

    JPJ Mobile counter, Saturday only

    JPJ is bringing its JPJ Mobile counter to the show on Saturday, October 31, from 9am to 4pm. It won’t be there on Sunday. At the counter, you can:

    • renew Malaysian driving licences (CDL/PDL)
    • renew road tax (LKM) for private and commercial vehicles
    • pay JPJ summonses, except for blacklisted cases
    • renew vocational driving licences (PSV/GDL)
    • collect CDL and LKM documents renewed online through JPJ’s mySIKAP portal
    • apply for a mySIKAP individual public user ID (ID Awam Individu)

    Payment is by credit or debit card only, so cash won’t be accepted. Bring your MyKad, and make sure your vehicle’s insurance is valid if you’re renewing road tax.

    PSV and GDL renewals require the comprehensive health test under the Program Pemandu Sihat dan Selamat (PSS) to be done at a panel clinic beforehand (more on the JPJ Mobile counter).

    Co-sponsors: Jacar, TNB Electron and Carro

    Jacar is offering discounts of up to RM2,000 at its booth as part of its year-end bonanza. Pecca leather seats start from RM1,699 (usually RM3,000), while Llumar window tint starts from RM999 for Diamond 4 (usually RM3,000 and above) and RM1,599 for Prestige Lite (usually RM4,000).

    A nano-ceramic standard tint is available from RM599, and mix-and-match packages tailored to your car start from RM1,099 (usually RM3,000). Jacar also has a membership programme with cashback, and a spin-and-win contest with prizes worth up to RM30,000.

    TNB Electron is the EV charging network of Tenaga Nasional Berhad. TNB had 256 charge points nationwide by the end of 2025, with 96 more in progress and another 250 planned for this year, and its fast chargers now deliver up to 480 kW. The sites are monitored round the clock, and there’s an extended-hours helpline if you need help at a charger (more on TNB Electron).

    Carro is running its Car of the Month promotion until November 30, with up to RM10,000 off selected Carro Certified cars, and some of them will be on display at ACE so you can check them out in person.

    Carro Certified cars come with a 160-point inspection, a one-year warranty, a five-day money-back guarantee and the assurance of no mileage tampering and no major accident, fire or flood damage. Pricing is all-in, with no processing, inspection or extra financing fees.

    ACE 2026 co-sponsors: Llumar tint by Jacar from RM999, TNB Electron EV charging, up to RM10,000 off Carro Certified cars

    The brand deals, from Audi to Zeekr

    Audi: The Audi Q7 S line, made this year and priced from RM369,990 including the Audi Assurance Package, comes with up to RM90,000 in rebates. Buyers get 5+2 years of warranty coverage, with the additional two years being an extended warranty by Tras, and a Q7 test drive unit will be at the show.

    Audi Q7 S line YOM2026 with up to RM90,000 off at ACE 2026

    BMW: Special rebates are on offer for the 530i M Sport, i5 eDrive40 M Sport Pro and 218 Gran Coupe Sport, and for demo units of the iX xDrive45 Sport. The X4 xDrive30i M Sport Pro, now in its last batch, and the 520i M Sport come with either special rebates or BMW Financial rates from 1.78%.

    BMW special rebates at ACE 2026 on the iX xDrive45 Sport demo units, 530i M Sport, i5 eDrive40 M Sport Pro and 218 Gran Coupe Sport

    There are also rebates only available when you book at the show, and test drives over the weekend. The iX3 50 xDrive M Sport Pro, the first Neue Klasse model in Malaysia, will be on display too. Ask the team at the BMW stand how much you can save.

    BMW X4 and 520i special rebates, ACE-only rebates and the new iX3 at ACE 2026

    BMW Motorrad: The new R 1300 GS with Automated Shift Assistant (ASA), F 450 GS with Easy Ride Clutch (ERC) and R 1300 RT will be on show, and the F 450 GS, R 1300 GS and C 400 GT are available for test rides.

    The R 1300 GS with Adaptive Height Control (AHC) from the 2026 year of manufacture is offered with financing at 2.99% flat a year, and all other 2026 BMW Motorrad models at 3.30%, both when bought with five years or 50,000 km of Service Inclusive and a two-year warranty extension. The rates apply to loans of RM30,000 and above over three to seven years, until December 31, 2026.

    BMW Motorrad R 1300 GS at 2.99% flat rate at ACE 2026

    Chery: The Tiggo 9 gets a RM18,000 rebate, bringing it down to RM179,800, and it’s backed by a seven-year/150,000 km vehicle warranty, a 10-year/1,000,000 km engine warranty and five years of free labour. The RM159,800 Tiggo 8 PHEV comes with a 10-year extended battery warranty.

    The Tiggo 7 Pro gets a RM15,000 rebate on its RM123,800 regular price, and the RM129,800 Tiggo 7 CSH a RM8,400 rebate. The RM99,800 Tiggo Cross CSH and the RM91,800 Tiggo Cross Sport Edition both get RM8,000 off, the latter for a promo price of RM83,800, while the Tiggo Cross 1.5L Turbo is RM88,800. All are covered by a seven-year/150,000 km vehicle warranty, and the electrified versions add a 10-year extended battery warranty.

    Chery Tiggo 9 RM18,000 off and Tiggo 7, Tiggo Cross rebates at ACE 2026

    Dongfeng: The Dongfeng 007 EV sedan gets a RM8,888 instant discount, bringing the Premium RWD down to RM161,000 and the Prime AWD to RM187,000. Both come with a six-year vehicle warranty and an eight-year battery and drive motor warranty, all with unlimited mileage. The same RM8,888 discount applies to the Dongfeng Vigo electric SUV.

    Dongfeng 007 and Vigo with RM8,888 off at ACE 2026

    GWM: Buy a Haval H6 HEV and you get exclusive Deepavali rewards worth RM17,000, interest rates from 0.97% and a free Touch ‘n Go RFID tag, plus five years of free maintenance including labour and parts and a 10-year engine and hybrid battery warranty.

    The Tank 300 off-roader will be there in ICE and HEV forms, with a lifetime engine and transmission warranty, five years of free maintenance inclusive of labour and parts, and a free TnG RFID tag. You can also test drive the Wey G9 HEV seven-seater MPV (RM249,800) and get an early look at the Ora 5 HEV ahead of its launch in November.

    GWM Haval H6 HEV RM17,000 rewards, Tank 300 lifetime warranty, Wey G9 HEV test drive and Ora 5 HEV preview at ACE 2026

    Hyundai: Hyundai by Karrus Automotive Group is offering instant savings of up to RM57,000 on the Hyundai range, including the Staria MPV with seven or 10 seats.

    The Stargazer MPV is priced from RM99,800, with an early bird package worth up to RM4,600. It also comes with Hyundai’s Resale Value Protection, which guarantees 70% of the RRP at year three (up to 60,000 km), 60% at year four (80,000 km) and 50% at year five (100,000 km), as long as the trade-in goes towards a new Hyundai.

    Hyundai instant savings of up to RM57,000 and Stargazer from RM99,800 at ACE 2026

    iCaur: The locally assembled V23 iWD keeps its tax-free price of RM132,780, and the V23 Retro Edition styling kit, with chrome trim and orange or green panel wraps, will be on display. The iCaur 03 is priced at RM119,740 for the RWD and RM129,880 for the iWD.

    Both the V23 and 03 are available for test drives, and the booth has activities where you can win gifts. Montanic Adventure Store will be there too, with camping gear and accessories at 15% off for a limited time.

    iCaur V23 at RM133k, V23 Retro Edition, iCaur 03 from RM119,740 and V23 and 03 test drives at ACE 2026

    Jetour: Every Jetour booked at ACE comes with a RM300 shopping voucher and a chance to win Jetour Life merchandise worth RM2,000, as long as the vehicle is registered this year. The T2 gets RM2,000 off for RM156,800, and the T1 gets RM2,000 off both the 1.5 2WD (RM127,800) and 2.0 XWD (RM144,800).

    The Dashing Prime is RM10,000 off at RM106,800, and the VT9 Prime gets a RM15,000 rebate for RM108,800.

    The T2 i-DM plug-in hybrid, from RM162,000, comes with a choice of early bird options worth RM3,000 for the first 2,000 registrations, such as a free V2L adapter cable and an AC charger with complimentary home installation. Buyers also get insurance benefits, including RM5,000 of cover for the wallbox charger, new driver personal liability cover of up to RM5,000 and special perils cover. T2 i-DM bookings made by December 31 also stand a chance to win the RM2,000 merchandise.

    Jetour T2 and T1 RM2,000 off, VT9 and Dashing rebates and T2 i-DM early bird pack at ACE 2026

    Leapmotor: Leapmotor Cycle & Carriage is offering an additional RM5,000 rebate on the B10 and C10, only at ACE.

    The B10 is priced at RM118,800 and comes with a complimentary EZ 5 Package worth RM11,188. It includes RM4,000 in insurance support, which brings the entry price down to RM114,800, plus a 22 kW wallbox charger worth RM3,888, at least RM1,200 in chargEV charging credits, a Premium Guard Elite Tint window film package worth RM1,600 and an exclusive Leapmotor key fob worth RM500.

    The locally assembled C10 is priced at RM129,000, and you can get it for RM4,000 less at ACE. The booth will also have the B03X, making its first appearance in Malaysia as a preview to gauge interest, in Seaweed Green.

    Leapmotor extra RM5,000 rebate on B10 and C10, B10 EZ5 package, C10 at RM125,000 and B03X preview at ACE 2026

    Lotus: ACE 2026 falls during the Lotus 30th Anniversary Month. Buy a Lotus at the show and you’ll receive a complimentary pair of KEF LS LUXE speakers worth RM19,899, in collaboration with HoeHuat Electric. Selected pre-owned Lotus models, including the Emeya, Eletre and Emira, start from RM399,000.

    Buy a Lotus at ACE 2026 and get free KEF LS LUXE speakers

    Mazda: The all-new third-generation CX-5, with a 185 hp/257 Nm Skyactiv-G 2.5 litre engine, a 12.9-inch touchscreen and a 12-speaker Bose system, will be on display. So will the CX-60 3.3L MHEV flagship SUV, with its 280 hp (284 PS) and 450 Nm inline-six turbo and Euro NCAP five-star rating.

    All-new Mazda CX-5 and CX-60 3.3 inline-six turbo MHEV at ACE 2026

    MINI: ACE-exclusive special rebates are available on the JCW Countryman, Countryman S, Aceman and Convertible, as well as the MINI Paul Smith Edition, of which only one unit is left, in Inspired White. Ask the team at the MINI stand how much you can save.

    MINI special rebates at ACE 2026 on the JCW Countryman, Countryman S, Aceman, Convertible and Paul Smith Edition

    Mitsubishi: The Xforce comes with the ‘777’ package, which combines a seven-year unlimited-mileage warranty with seven years of free labour for scheduled services and seven years of free parts. Current Mitsubishi owners get a RM3,000 rebate.

    The Xpander gets the ‘888’ package, with an eight-year unlimited-mileage warranty plus free labour and selected parts for eight scheduled services, along with a RM3,000 year-end rebate and ACE-exclusive vouchers.

    Mitsubishi Xforce 777 package and owner rebate, Xpander 888 package and RM3,000 rebate at ACE 2026

    The Triton has deals worth up to RM25,000. The Triton AT Premium comes with seven years of complimentary diesel, five years of free maintenance and a five-year unlimited-mileage warranty. The Triton Athlete gets eight years of complimentary diesel worth RM20,000, the five-year warranty and up to RM10,000 in trade-in support, while the Triton AT GL comes with up to RM12,000 in diesel support for a limited time.

    Mitsubishi Triton deals at ACE 2026: AT Premium, Athlete free diesel, trade-in support and AT GL diesel support

    At the Mitsubishi booth, you’ll find the Xforce Roving Cloud, the Triton that won the 2026 Asia Cross Country Rally (AXCR) with an AXCR booth, and an Xpander with a camping set-up. There’s the Xforce Load Up Challenge, where you load as many items as you can into its 410-litre boot within a minute, an Xforce Test Drive Challenge and a social media giveaway. Every test drive earns you an exclusive tumbler, and every booking an exclusive umbrella.

    Mitsubishi Xforce Roving Cloud and AXCR Triton on display at ACE 2026

    Omoda | Jaecoo: The Jaecoo J5, priced at RM108,000, gets a RM9,000 rebate and a seven-year/150,000 km vehicle warranty. Book the Jaecoo J7 PHEV at ACE and you get a RM10,500 rebate, bringing it down to RM148,300, along with five years/50,000 km of free maintenance and a battery and engine warranty extended to 10 years/1,000,000 km. The upcoming C7 is also expected to be previewed at the booth, and you can place a booking.

    Jaecoo J5 RM9,000 rebate and Jaecoo J7 PHEV RM10,500 rebate at ACE 2026

    Perodua: The rebates cover most of the range. The QV-E gets RM10,000, the Ativa up to RM9,500, the Aruz RM4,000, the Bezza RM2,500, the Myvi RM1,500 and the Axia RM1,000.

    Perodua QV-E, Ativa, Aruz and Bezza rebates at ACE 2026

    With the rebate, the QV-E is RM53,499 under Perodua’s battery-as-a-service (BaaS) package, which adds an all-inclusive RM215 a month for the battery, or RM77,499 if you buy the car outright. The Axia 1.0L G is now from RM33,900 following a RM4,700 price cut. The Traz will be on show too, with a 1.5 litre engine and D-CVT rated at 21.3 km/l, a 471-litre boot and a five-star ASEAN NCAP rating.

    Perodua Myvi and Axia rebates, QV-E from RM53,499 with BaaS and Axia 1.0L G from RM33,900 at ACE 2026

    Perodua Traz with up to 21.3 km/l at ACE 2026

    Proton: EON is offering rebates of up to RM13,000 on selected Proton models, and the new Saga MC3 gets a RM1,300 rebate. You’ll get exclusive EON merchandise with a minimum RM100 booking fee, and buying the extended warranty package gets you 10% off each eligible service appointment. The S70 MC1 is available for test drives throughout the show.

    Proton up to RM13,000 off and Proton eMas 7 RM7,000 off at ACE 2026

    Proton eMas: Also through EON, the locally assembled eMas 7 comes with up to RM10,000 in trade-in support, an extra RM7,000 rebate, a RM4,000 rebate for corporate buyers, a free 7 kW wallbox worth RM1,500 and a free V2L adaptor worth RM500. Test drives are available.

    The eMas 5 gets an extra rebate of up to RM3,000, corporate rebates of RM2,000 for the Prime and RM3,000 for the Premium, plus the same wallbox and V2L adaptor. Both come with a six-year unlimited-mileage vehicle warranty and an eight-year/160,000 km high-voltage battery and components warranty.

    smart: EON Berhad will reveal a year-end promotion on the smart #5 Brabus only at the show. The 646 PS/710 Nm electric SUV comes with a four-year vehicle warranty, four free services and an eight-year/200,000 km battery warranty, and there are free gifts and test drives all weekend.

    Volkswagen: EON is offering rebates of up to RM72,000 on all Volkswagen models. Existing Volkswagen owners get RM10,000 in trade-in support when they buy a Tayron Elegance or Tayron R-Line, and a Tayron test drive unit will be at the show. Every Volkswagen comes with 5+2 years of warranty coverage, with the additional extended warranty by Tras.

    smart #5 Brabus year-end promotion and Volkswagen rebates of up to RM72,000 at ACE 2026

    Zeekr: The Zeekr 7X, priced at RM193,800 for the RWD Long Range and RM230,800 for the AWD Performance, comes with a free AC wallbox charger and a two-year/40,000 km free maintenance and service package.

    Book the Zeekr 009 at ACE and you’ll get a free wallbox, up to RM6,000 in insurance support, five years/100,000 km of free maintenance and an eight-year/160,000 km extended warranty. The luxury MPV is priced at RM304,800 for the Executive, RM349,800 for the Luxury and RM359,800 for the Ultra Luxury.

    Zeekr 7X from RM193,800 and Zeekr 009 with free wallbox at ACE 2026

    Terms and conditions apply to all brand promotions.

    ACE 2026 co-sponsors, participating brands and goodie bag sponsors

    See you at SCCC

    ACE 2026, powered by Petronas Primax, takes place this Saturday and Sunday, October 31 and November 1, from 9am to 7pm at the Setia City Convention Centre. Entry is free, and you can find all our ACE 2026 stories here.

    The full promotion details are on the ACE 2026 microsite. See you there!

     
  • Marc Marquez tops Malaysian MotoGP practice after crash

    Marc Marquez tops Malaysian MotoGP practice after crash

    Marc Marquez overcame an early crash to lead Friday afternoon’s practice session for the 2026 Petronas Malaysian MotoGP at Sepang International Circuit, putting Ducati Lenovo Team ahead of a one-two finish.

    The reigning world champion and current championship leader clocked 1:57.000 to finish nearly four tenths of a second ahead of younger brother Alex Marquez (BK8 Gresini Racing). Ai Ogura (Trackhouse MotoGP) took third with an improved performance late in the session.

    Marc Marquez tops Malaysian MotoGP practice after crash

    Marc’s session was interrupted by a crash at Turn 15, where he lost the front end of his Ducati. However, he returned to the track and recovered from eighth place to set the fastest time with just over 15 minutes of practice remaining.

    Pedro Acosta (Red Bull KTM), Fabio Di Giannantonio (VR46) and Marco Bezzecchi (Aprilia) completed the top six, followed by KTM Tech3 duo Enea Bastianini and Maverick Vinales. Franco Morbidelli (VR46) was ninth, while Joan Mir marked his return to action with 10th place for Honda HRC.

    Marc Marquez tops Malaysian MotoGP practice after crash

    KTM also secured three direct Q2 places for the first time since last year’s Hungarian GP. There was disappointment for Francesco Bagnaia, who crashed at Turn 1 in the closing stages and finished 12th. Johann Zarco (Castrol Honda LCR) also fell at Turns 7 and 8, ending the session 11th. Both will have to go through Q1 in Saturday’s qualifying.

    Alex Rins was the fastest Yamaha rider in 14th, while Diogo Moreira (LCR Honda) finished 13th after a front-end save at Turn 15 cost him the chance to improve. Jorge Martin (Aprilia Racing) completed just three laps before withdrawing from the session.

    Marc Marquez tops Malaysian MotoGP practice after crash

    Martin suffered a non-displaced fracture of the distal radius in his right arm during a crash at the Australian MotoGP. The 2024 world champion will reassess his condition in Saturday morning’s FP2, but his limited running leaves him facing Q1 if he continues for the rest of the Malaysian GP weekend.

    Saturday’s programme at Sepang will see riders return for FP2 before qualifying and the Sprint race, with Marc Marquez heading into the weekend’s next phase as the rider to beat. The Malaysian MotoGP is currently running on the weekend of November 1 and 2 at Sepang International Circuit.

     
  • KYT limited edition SIC Racing helmets, from RM559

    KYT limited edition SIC Racing helmets, from RM559

    KYT and Sepang International Circuit (SIC) have launched two special-edition helmets featuring circuit-inspired graphics, with the TTR Jet priced at RM559 and TT-Revo full-face retailing at RM719. Unveiled during the Petronas Grand Prix of Malaysia 2026, the TTR Jet SIC Racing and TT-Revo SIC Racing continue the collaboration between the Indonesian helmet manufacturer and SIC, which first introduced a co-branded helmet at the 2023 Malaysian MotoGP.

    Both helmets feature graphics incorporating elements of the Sepang circuit layout and produced in limited numbers. The TTR Jet is capped at 3,000 units, while production of the TT-Revo is limited to 800 units.

    The TTR Jet SIC Racing uses a thermoplastic outer shell with a polystyrene inner shell. The scratch-resistant visor features a quick-release mechanism and is compatible with Pinlock Max Vision 70, while a built-in sun visor provides additional protection in changing light conditions.

    KYT limited edition SIC Racing helmets, from RM559

    Other features include a ventilation system, removable and washable interior padding, and compatibility with helmet communication systems. It meets ECE 22.06 safety standards and uses a Double D-Ring fastening systemWeighing approximately 1,450 g, the TTR Jet is available in sizes S to 2XL.

    The TT-Revo SIC Racing, meanwhile, uses an ADT-Resin thermoplastic shell offered in three shell sizes. Its wide, scratch-resistant visor is Pinlock-ready and features a quick-release mechanism. Ventilation is handled by five air intakes and four exhaust vents, while the interior lining is removable, washable and designed to absorb sweat.

    KYT limited edition SIC Racing helmets, from RM559

    Like the TTR Jet, the TT-Revo meets ECE 22.06 standards and uses a Double D-Ring retention system, making it suitable for racetrack use. It weighs approximately 1,550 g and is available in sizes M to 2XL. Both limited edition helmets will be sold through authorised KYT dealers and the brand’s official Shopee store.

    The launch was attended by SIC chief executive officer Azhan Shafriman Hanif and MKA Group business and motorsports director Doc Dol, alongside KYT riders Kasma Danial Kasmayuddin, Azroy Hakim Anuar and Khairul Idham Pawi.

     
  • 2027 CFMoto 500SR launched in Malaysia at RM29,988

    2027 CFMoto 500SR launched in Malaysia at RM29,988

    Getting its official Malaysian launch is the 2027 CFMoto 500SR, priced at RM29,988. Available through authorised CFMoto Malaysia dealers in Galaxy Grey and Nebula White, the 500SR comes with a two-year or 20,000 km warranty against manufacturing defects, while direct market competition locally is the ZXMoto 500RR, priced identically at RM29,988.

    Power comes from a 500 cc, liquid-cooled, DOHC inline-four engine producing 78.8 PS at 12,500 rpm and 49 Nm of torque at 10,000 rpm. Output rises to 81 hp with the Ram Air intake system activated.

    The engine features Bosch electronic fuel injection, forged pistons and crankshaft, fracture-split connecting rods and an all-aluminium cylinder. Drive is channelled through a wet multi-plate slipper clutch.

    2027 CFMoto 500SR launched in Malaysia at RM29,988

    The 500SR uses a steel tubular frame, suspended by 41 mm upside-down front forks and a multi-link rear shock absorber. Both ends are adjustable, with 120 mm of front travel and 130 mm at the rear.

    Braking is done with twin 300 mm front discs with Nissin four-piston calipers and a 220 mm rear disc. Safety equipment includes dual-channel ABS with Supermoto mode that switches off the rear wheel ABS, two-level traction control with ‘Off’ function, an adjustable steering damper and Emergency Stop Signal (ESS).

    2027 CFMoto 500SR launched in Malaysia at RM29,988

    Riding information is displayed on a 6.2-inch colour TFT display with MotoPlay, an upshift-only quickshifter, five-level heated grips and a tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS). USB Type-A and Type-C charging ports provide up to 18 watts of power, while LED lighting is used throughout.

    The 500SR rolls on 17-inch alloy wheels with CST S3N tyres measuring 120/70 at the front and 160/60 at the rear. Seat height is 790 mm or 795 mm, depending on configuration, while fuel tank capacity is 15.5 litres and kerb weight is 192 kg.

     
  • ACE 2026: Buy a Leapmotor B10 or C10 and enjoy an additional RM5,000 rebate, only available at the show

    ACE 2026: Extra RM5,000 rebate on the Leapmotor B10 and C10, exclusive at ACE, October 31-November 1, 2026, Setia City Convention Centre

    Just a day to go before the paultan.org Auto Car Expo (ACE), powered by Petronas Primax, takes place. The show runs this weekend, October 31 to November 1, which is tomorrow and Sunday, at the Setia City Convention Centre (SCCC). Like previous editions, ACE 2026 promises lots of amazing deals on a wide range of vehicles.

    Leapmotor will have a trio of offerings on show at its booth, including the B03X, which is making its very first appearance in the country at ACE 2026. Aside from that special preview, the display will also showcase the B10 and C10 SUVs, and there’s some great news if you’re thinking of buying either one.

    Leapmotor Cycle & Carriage is offering a chance to win up to a RM5,000 rebate on both the B10 and C10. Only available at ACE, the exclusive offer makes both EVs even more tempting. The B10 also gets a complimentary EZ 5 Package worth RM11,188, which includes RM4,000 in insurance support that lowers the EV’s entry price.

    Also included in the EZ 5 Package for the B10 is a 22 kW Wallbox Charger worth RM3,888, no less than RM1,200 in chargEV charging credits, a Premium Guard Elite Tint window film package worth RM1,600 and an exclusive Leapmotor key fob worth RM500. Add in the special RM5,000 rebate and that sounds like a really sweet deal, so be sure to find out more at ACE.

    ACE 2026 co-sponsors, participating brands and goodie bag sponsors

    Aside from Leapmotor, brands that will be present at ACE 2026 include Audi, BMW, BMW Motorrad, Chery, Dongfeng, GWM, Hyundai, iCaur, Jetour, Lotus, Mazda, MINI, Mitsubishi, Omoda | Jaecoo, Perodua, Proton, Proton eMas, smart, Volkswagen and Zeekr, among others. Co-sponsors Jacar and Carro will also be there showcasing their own products and services, while TNB Electron is also on board as a co-sponsor.

    If you purchase a car at ACE 2026, you can look forward to extra benefits besides the various promotions offered by individual brands, because the first 200 confirmed bookings will also enjoy RM3,000 worth of vouchers from us. Each confirmed booking also enters you into a lucky draw, with prizes worth RM57,000 up for grabs.

    These include a grand prize holiday package worth RM10,000, three sets of Llumar window tint by Jacar worth RM4,000 each, five smartphones worth RM3,000 each and five DK Schweizer Prestige Leather Upholstery upgrades worth RM4,000 each. There will also be goodie bags, courtesy of V-Kool, Harman Kardon, DK Schweizer, Dodo, The Carage and Kuzig Glanz Detailing.

    So, if you’re planning to buy a new car, the place to get the best deals is at ACE 2026, which takes place this October 31 to November 1 at the SCCC. Find out more details about the event at the ACE 2026 microsite. See you there this weekend!

     
  • Expect traffic congestion to KLIA this weekend due to MotoGP race in Sepang, take the KLIA Ekspres – MAS

    Click to enlarge

    Those who are travelling from KLIA this weekend, take note. The Petronas Grand Prix of Malaysia 2026 a.k.a. MotoGP motorcycle race will be happening at the Sepang International Circuit this weekend and Malaysia Airlines is warning of traffic congestion, advising passengers to ‘budget’ additional time for the journey to the airport.

    “Malaysia Airlines advises passengers travelling from KLIA between October 30 and November 1 to allow additional time to reach the airport due to expected traffic congestion. Heavy traffic and road delays are expected in the surrounding areas and on highways leading to KLIA during MotoGP, held at the Sepang International Circuit,” the airline said in a statement.

    “While access to KLIA remains fully open, passengers are strongly advised to monitor real-time traffic updates from PDRM, plan alternative routes where necessary and consider using the KLIA Ekspres train service to ensure prompt arrival at the airport,” it added, reminding passengers that they need to arrive at KLIA at least three hours before international flights and two hours before domestic flights.

    Share this with those who are travelling and take the train if possible. For those heading to MotoGP to witness the title fight, Rapid KL is providing shuttle buses from Pasar Seni and KLCC in the city centre, and from KLIA2 – details here.

     
  • 2027 Yamaha YZF-R9 arrives in Malaysia in Jan, RM68,000

    2027 Yamaha YZF-R9 arrives in Malaysia in Jan, RM68,000

    Arriving in Malaysia in Juanary is the 2027 Yamaha YZF-R9, priced at RM68,000 excluding road tax, insurance and registration. Positioned as the flagship of Yamaha’s R-Series in Malaysia (what? No R1?), the R9 will be sold authorised Yamaha BLU Universe dealers nationwide and offered only in Icon Blue.

    The YZF-R9 is powered by an 890 cc liquid-cooled, DOHC inline three-cylinder Crossplane engine producing 119 PS at 10,000 rpm and 93 Nm of torque at 7,000 rpm. Power goes through. six-speed gearbox and chain final drive, while the quickshifter comes with two modes – Setting 1 allows for upshifts when accelerating and downshifts on deceleration while Setting 2 allows downshifts while accelerating and upshifts while decelerating, intended for track use in specific cornering situations.

    The engine is housed in an aluminium Deltabox frame weighing 9.7 kg, claimed to be the lightest aluminium frame Yamaha has used on a supersport model. The gravity-cast construction is designed to balance rigidity and flexibility for improved handling.

    2027 Yamaha YZF-R9 arrives in Malaysia in Jan, RM68,000

    Suspension comprises of fully adjustable 43 mm KYB inverted front forks and a KYB rear shock absorber, while braking is handled by Brembo Stylema monoblock front calipers. Aerodynamics are assisted by MotoGP-inspired winglets developed through wind tunnel testing to generate downforce, reduce front-end lift and improve stability.

    Electronics are managed by a six-axis inertial measurement unit (IMU), supporting lean-sensitive traction control, slide control, lift control and brake control. Riders can customise the settings through Yamaha Ride Control, while launch control is included for standing-start acceleration.

    2027 Yamaha YZF-R9 arrives in Malaysia in Jan, RM68,000

    The R9 also supports the Y-TRAC Rev smartphone app, which works with Yamaha Y-Connect to provide lap timing, riding data analysis and ride-log storage. A virtual pit board allows team members to send instructions to the motorcycle’s instrument display.

    A five-inch full-colour TFT display offers four selectable themes, including a dedicated Track mode with lap timing. Other riding information includes fuel level, consumption, coolant temperature and gear position.

     
  • Portugal’s government to subsidise up to 80% of an EV’s value for low-income families – up to 20,000 EVs

    Portugal’s government to subsidise up to 80% of an EV’s value for low-income families – up to 20,000 EVs

    The Portuguese government has announced that it will support the purchase of up to 20,000 EVs for low-income families by subsidising up to 80% of each vehicle’s value, Xinhua reports.

    “Freeing Portugal from dependence on fossil fuels is not a chimaera: it is an essential condition for a better future and less dependence on third parties,” environment minister Maria da Graca Carvalho said in parliament.

    A separate scheme for the general population, with rules similar to those of previous programmes, will have a budget of approximately 50 million euros (RM227 million).

    Portugal’s government to subsidise up to 80% of an EV’s value for low-income families – up to 20,000 EVs

    The government will also support the purchase of up to 9,000 EVs by micro-enterprises and promote the acquisition of more sustainable heavy vehicles, alongside investment in charging infrastructure. EV buses carrying workers and students in low-density areas will also be co-financed.

    The country’s previous 10 million-euro (RM45 million) EV subsidy programme offered incentives of up to 4,000 euros (RM18k) for new EVs priced up to 38,500 euros (RM175k), or 55,000 euros (RM250k) for models with over five seats.

    Conversely, here’s another story involving the EU, EVs and 80%, but the figure refers instead to tariffs proposed by Italy’s auto suppliers lobby on Chinese cars and parts.

     
  • Tesla Malaysia to add six more Supercharger stations by the end of 2026 – more locations are being planned

    Tesla Malaysia to add six more Supercharger stations by the end of 2026 – more locations are being planned

    Earlier this month, Tesla Malaysia provided an update on its electric vehicle (EV) charging network, stating that there are presently 21 Supercharger stations – offering a total of 92 Superchargers – operational nationwide, an increase from the 15 Supercharging stations (with 68 Superchargers) from a year ago.

    The company also indicated that it would be adding six additional charging sites across the country by the end of this year, and these will be operational in Kuala Lumpur, Selangor, Perak, Negeri Sembilan (Seremban) and Penang.

    The six upcoming additions were again highlighted in a brief presentation made during the Tesla CyberCab preview yesterday, and a check with the company revealed that all six will be Supercharger sites. It was also indicated that there are plans for more stations to be added to the network in the coming future, with these pending approval from local authorities (PBT).

    Meanwhile, the number of Destination Charging stations remains at 18, with 78 Destination Chargers in total, up from 16 Destination Charging stations (with 73 Destination Chargers) a year ago. As reported in July, usage of these AC chargers is no longer free.

     
  • Proton cars to get Google built-in from second half of 2027, along with all Geely Group brand vehicles

    Proton cars to get Google built-in from second half of 2027, along with all Geely Group brand vehicles

    Future Proton vehicles will come with Google built-in following Geely Holding Group’s (ZGH) announcement of a strategic partnership with the multinational tech giant. In an official release, ZGH said it is bringing Google Automotive Services (GAS) to vehicles sold in markets outside of China and the United States (for obvious reasons) from the second half of 2027.

    Through GAS, carmakers are able to license and integrate Google apps and services such as Gemini, Play, Maps and more directly into a vehicle’s native infotainment. Geely is technically no stranger to this, as Polestar, which is part of the group, has deployed the system in the Polestar 2 since 2020.

    In Proton’s case, it is likely that the company’s (upcoming) Geely-based models will be the ones to get Google built-in, and not its own homegrown models. GAS requires an onboard internet connection to use its best features, and cars like the Saga are not connected from the factory unlike more advanced Geely-based models like the X50, X70 and S70.

    However, it has to be said that Honda Malaysia also fits a few of its models with Google built-in without data connectivity, requiring owners to tether their own internet to get access to the complete suite of functions.

    Proton cars to get Google built-in from second half of 2027, along with all Geely Group brand vehicles

    Besides Proton, vehicles from Geely, Lynk & Co, Riddara and smart will also come with Google built-in. With this partnership, Geely (and several of the brands under it) will join carmakers like Polestar, Volvo, Cadillac, GMC, Chevrolet, Renault, Honda, Acura, Nissan, Infiniti, Lincoln, Ford, Buick, Mitsubishi, BYD (international models), Alpine and Mazda in offering Google built-in vehicles.

    “People increasingly expect the same level of convenience and connectivity in their cars as they enjoy in their everyday lives. Through our partnership with Google, we are bringing digital services directly into our vehicles to create a more seamless, intuitive and enjoyable driving experience,” said Shen Yuan, senior vice president and chief technology officer at ZGH.

    “We are excited to bring Google built-in to more vehicles in ZGH’s portfolio. With this collaboration, we’re transforming the in-car experience for ZGH customers by providing drivers with their favorite apps, intuitive navigation and a personal AI assistant right from their dashboard,” commented Haris Ramic, Android for Cars product director at Google.

     
  • Puspakom Kajang begins light commercial vehicle inspection – 800-vehicle daily capacity across 10 lanes

    Puspakom Kajang begins light commercial vehicle inspection – 800-vehicle daily capacity across 10 lanes

    Puspakom has started inspections for light commercial vehicles at its flagship Kajang branch. The routine and re-routine inspections for LCVs mark the second phase of operations at the new facility. Now, business operators in Kajang, Semenyih, Beranang, Bangi and surrounding areas have an additional option for their vehicle inspection needs.

    “Reaching this milestone reflects the team’s efforts to bring the next phase of Puspakom Kajang’s operations online as planned. Since the launch, the Kajang branch has been very well received. We will continue to introduce the remaining services progressively, with initial and re-initial inspections for light commercial vehicles scheduled to commence on November 23,” said Mahmood Razak Bahman, CEO of Puspakom.

    This follows the introduction of private vehicle inspections on October 5. Since Puspakom Kajang’s opening, the branch has recorded an average of 350 private vehicle inspections daily, which is around 40% higher than the average daily volume previously handled by the now-closed Pandan Mewah branch.

    Puspakom Kajang begins light commercial vehicle inspection – 800-vehicle daily capacity across 10 lanes

    Meanwhile, a total of 87 bookings for LCV inspections, comprising 63 routine and 24 re-routine bookings, have been recorded from October 28-30. The next phase of Puspakom Kajang’s operational rollout is scheduled for November 23, when initial and re-initial inspections for LCVs are expected to start.

    Puspakom Kajang, the largest inspection centre in Malaysia, has five inspection lanes dedicated to commercial vehicles and five lanes for private vehicles. The facility is designed to accommodate up to 800 vehicles daily at full capacity. The address is Lot 1A & 1B, Jalan P4/13, Bandar Teknologi Kajang. Operating hours are from 8am to 5.30 pm, Monday to Friday.

    This coincides with the reduced service scope for the nearby Puspakom Bangi. From November 2, there will only be two tests available at that branch, which are Pemeriksaan Tukar Hak Milik (MV15) and Pemeriksaan Khas (B2), both for private vehicles.

     
  • NCM to encourage CKD cars to use Malaysian steel: Sim

    NCM to encourage CKD cars to use Malaysian steel: Sim

    We all know Malaysia’s investment, trade and industry ministry (MITI) has of late been pushing for more localisation in locally-assembled (CKD) cars; now, according to a Bernama report, it seems that the use of Malaysian steel is going to be one of the focus points moving forward.

    Deputy minister Sim Tze Tzin yesterday said at an iron and steel industry conference that the new customised incentive mechanism (NCM) that will be implemented next year will encourage carmakers to increase local sourcing, including replacing imported steel with locally-produced materials.

    NCM to encourage CKD cars to use Malaysian steel: Sim

    “If they want to enjoy our excise duty, lower excise duties, then they have to really, really go deep into localisation – genuine localisation,” he said, adding that Malaysia’s iron and steel industry traditionally focused on construction and infrastructure.

    Sim said he hoped that the move would open up the automotive market to domestic steelmakers, stressing that the industry must invest in producing automotive-grade steel. He also cited price competitiveness and the investment needed to meet higher safety standards as obstacles.

     
  • Acura NSX Roadster from 2012’s The Avengers goes up for auction – hand-crafted body over a first-gen NSX

    Acura NSX Roadster from 2012’s The Avengers goes up for auction – hand-crafted body over a first-gen NSX

    The year was 2012. Marvel’s The Avengers was celebrating its premiere at the El Capitan Theatre on April 11, with actor Robert Downey Jr., who plays Tony Stark/Iron Man, arriving on the red carpet in a unique car that wasn’t an Audi.

    That car is a one-of-a-kind Acura NSX Roadster, which is now officially up for auction on Cars & Bids and will make a public appearance at the Las Vegas Concours on October 31 where the winning bidder will be revealed after the online auction concludes on November 1.

    Created specifically for the 2012 blockbuster film, the NSX Roadster was inspired by the NSX Concept revealed earlier the same year as a preview for the brand’s second-generation sports car. The reborn NSX, which was also sold as a Honda, would eventually arrive in 2015 before going away (again) in 2022.

    Getting back to the “superhero supercar,” the NSX Roadster was designed by Acura’s Advanced Design Studio in Los Angeles under the direction of the brand’s former creative director Dave Marek. It featured a hand-crafted body that was laid over a first-generation NSX, so while it looked very striking on the outside, the interior is one from the 90s.

    Also retained is its 3.0 litre VTEC naturally-aspirated V6 engine and five-speed manual transmission driving the rear wheels, which Robert Downey Jr. used to show up to the premiere. According to the listing, the car is finished in a custom paint matched to Iron Man’s armour and comes fitted with aftermarket sports seats as well as staggered wheels (18-inch front and 20-inch rear).

    The ‘STARK 33’ licence plate it wears is also the same one seen in the film and there’s a certificate of authenticity along with a signed photo of Marek with the NSX awaiting the winning bidder. The sale of the NSX Roadster is in conjunction with Acura’s NSX 35th Anniversary celebration, with all proceeds going to support charitable initiatives.

     
  • Gov’t to revise legal provisions for the handling of abandoned vehicles, aims for new guidelines by year-end

    Gov’t to revise legal provisions for the handling of abandoned vehicles, aims for new guidelines by year-end

    Despite efforts to address the problem, abandoned vehicles continue to proliferate in the country. In the Klang Valley alone, three local councils recently reported that there were more than 27,000 such vehicles in areas under their jurisdiction.

    Local authorities have faced long-running difficulties removing abandoned vehicles due to problems tracing owners, inaccurate registration details as well as lengthy verification and disposal processes.

    Now, the housing and local government ministry, working together with the transport ministry, is looking at how to improve existing legal provisions via new guidelines. Its minister, Nga Kor Ming, said the joint initiative aims to clarify powers and expedite enforcement and disposal processes while safeguarding the rights of vehicle owners, as the New Straits Times reports.

    Gov’t to revise legal provisions for the handling of abandoned vehicles, aims for new guidelines by year-end

    He said the new guidelines are expected to be implemented by local authorities in the peninsula before the end of this year, while implementation in Sabah and Sarawak will be coordinated with the respective authorities, according to applicable legal frameworks.

    Nga said the updated approach aims to shift the management of abandoned vehicles from a purely enforcement model to a comprehensive solution balancing legal authority, public rights, and owners’ social responsibility.

    He added that both ministries are also exploring approaches where the use of various legal instruments can be considered. “This includes the Road Transport Act 1987, as well as introducing a more systematic voluntary disposal method to encourage owners to legally dispose of obsolete vehicles. The ministry is also improving the guidelines for the management of abandoned vehicles in local authority operational areas, introduced in 2020,” he said.

    Gov’t to revise legal provisions for the handling of abandoned vehicles, aims for new guidelines by year-end

    “This aims to streamline procedures for tracking, removing, storing, and disposing of abandoned vehicles based on available powers under relevant laws, including the Street, Drainage and Building Act 1974,” he wrote in a written parliamentary reply, responding to a question from Jimmy Puah (PH-Tebrau) on the ministry’s plans to draft or amend existing laws to tackle the issue of abandoned vehicles nationwide.

    “The government stresses that the approach to managing abandoned vehicles is not merely issuing guidelines, but involves a comprehensive action framework based on good governance, field evidence, inter-agency coordination and practical work process improvements for local authorities to implement,” he said.

    He added that the government is confident that with the support of all parties, including the transport ministry and the police, the issue of abandoned vehicles can be addressed more effectively and holistically.

     
  • Lexus LBX updated in Japan with improved chassis, new Sou colour – HUD, dashcam standard for all variants

    Lexus LBX updated in Japan with improved chassis, new Sou colour – HUD, dashcam standard for all variants

    The Lexus LBX has received a running update on Japan, with sales of the revised compact SUV set to commence there from November 3 this year.

    The changes are focused on improving the car’s ride and handling, starting with a thicker centre cross member that is aimed to enhancing body rigidity. The company also conducted further testing and tuning at the Nürburgring in Germany, resulting in the LBX’s dampers receiving revised valve characteristics for more supply body control over rough roads.

    Additionally, the electronic power steering (EPS) control has been modified to deliver a more natural and reassuring steering feel. All variants of the LBX also now come standard with a coloured head-up display and a drive recorder.

    The colour palette has also been revised to include a new option called Sou, which is a light shade of blue with metallic depth. All monotone colours are now available for Relax and Elegant variants, while two-tone options and Black Mica are offered for Cool and Active variants.

    In Japan, the LBX is only offered with a hybrid powertrain based around a M15A-FXE 1.5 litre naturally-aspirated inline-three petrol engine making 91 PS (90 hp or 67 kW) and 120 Nm of torque.

    This is augmented by a 1VM electric motor rated at 94 PS (93 hp or 69 kW) and 185 Nm for a total system output of 136 PS (134 hp or 100 kW). An E-CVT is standard to drive the front wheels, with all-wheel drive (E-Four) being an option that adds a rear electric motor with 6.4 PS (6.3 hp or 4.7 kW) and 52 Nm.

    Malaysia welcomed the LBX in July 2024, and it is currently offered in Premium and Luxury forms priced at RM199,888 and RM229,888 respectively. Both get the front-wheel drive hybrid system and can be optioned with a two-tone exterior for an extra RM1,500.

     
  • Subang Jaya will be a KTM ETS hub in 2027 along with KL’s old train station – up to 14 extra daily services

    Subang Jaya will be a KTM ETS hub in 2027 along with KL’s old train station – up to 14 extra daily services

    Click to enlarge

    Big news for those in Subang and surrounding areas. Subang Jaya will be a hub for KTM’s long distance ETS train service in 2027, along with KL’s old train station. These extra hubs mean that it’s no longer necessary to board the ETS from KL Sentral, if you’re closer to Subang.

    KTM says that the initiative is to widen access to rail services and offer alternative station choices to passengers, especially to help reduce the concentration on KL Sentral during peak hours and busy travel periods.

    The extra hubs were announced along with extra ETS services for next year, from the current 44 scheduled services a day to 50 from Monday to Thursday, and 58 from Friday to Sunday. This increase of up to 14 daily services also involves the JB Sentral – KL Sentral – JB Sentral route, which will see an increase from eight to 12 daily services. KTM says this will give passengers more choice of travel times, especially to meet demand on weekends and during peak travel periods.

    Subang Jaya will be a KTM ETS hub in 2027 along with KL’s old train station – up to 14 extra daily services

    There will also be some changes for those who travel between ETS northern and southern sectors. From January 1, 2027, the direct ride from JB Sentral to Butterworth and Padang Besar (both ways) and Butterworth to Segamat (both ways) will no longer use the same train for the whole journey – passengers will have to change trains at KL Sentral.

    Note that for now, one will have to purchase two tickets for such rides, such as from JB Sentral to KL Sentral, and from KL Sentral to Butterworth. KTM says that it is upgrading its ticketing system to allow for a single ticket purchase from December 2026. For now, double check the timing of the two tickets and take into account the time needed to switch trains at KL Sentral.

    ETS and Ekspres Rakyat Timuran (ERT) tickets for January to March 2027 will go on sale in two stages, both at 12 noon:

    • November 2, 2026: travel in January and February 2027, 1,035,384 seats
    • December 1, 2026: travel in March 2027, 538,488 seats

    In total, 1,573,872 seats will be offered over the three months, 1,520,592 of them on the ETS and 53,280 on the ERT. KTM says this is its highest seat offering yet for the period, and 39% more than the 1,131,500 seats offered in the same three months this year.

    With the extra services and hubs, KTM projects ETS ridership to grow by 6.5% to 6.28 million passengers in 2027, from a projected 5.9 million this year.

    Subang folks, share this piece of good news to those who take the ETS.

     
  • Malaysian fuel subsidy bill eases, but still on track to reach RM40 billion this year – ministry of finance

    Malaysian fuel subsidy bill eases, but still on track to reach RM40 billion this year – ministry of finance

    While Malaysia’s monthly fuel subsidy bill had eased to around RM3 billion between June and August this year, down from nearly RM5 billion in March and April, the total fuel subsidy expenditure is still projected to be around RM40 billion for 2026, the ministry of finance has stated, reported The Star.

    The moderation in fuel subsidy expense followed a sharp increase in global crude oil prices amid the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, which has placed considerable pressure on government finances, the finance ministry said.

    “The government has faced significant fiscal pressure from the global supply crisis, which has led to higher subsidy expenditure, particularly for fuel and utilities. The conflict pushed global crude oil prices above US$120 per barrel, and Malaysia has not been spared the effects of this crisis,” the finance ministry stated in a written parliamentary reply.

    Malaysian fuel subsidy bill eases, but still on track to reach RM40 billion this year – ministry of finance

    Monthly subsidies for petrol, diesel and liquefied petroleum gas increased on nearly RM5 billion in March and April, up from around RM800 million in January and February, the ministry continued.

    “The government’s subsidy burden has since moderated to approximately RM3 billion monthly from June to August 2026. Based on the latest projections, the government estimates that petroleum product subsidies for 2026 will amount to RM40 billion,” it said.

    Last week, prime minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said that Malaysians will continue to pay RM1.99 per litre for subsidised RON 95 petrol under the Budi Madani RON 95 programme (Budi95), even if the government fuel subsidy expenditure climbs to RM42 billion to RM45 billion annually.

    In June, the ministry of finance told the parliament that 11.1 billion litres of fuel with a sales value of RM22.1 billion had been sold under the Budi Madani programme from the end of September last year until May 31, of which RM11.2 billion was the cost of subsidy borne by the government.

     
  • Government to stick with SST and improve it, says MoF – GST not being considered due to high cost of living

    Government to stick with SST and improve it, says MoF – GST not being considered due to high cost of living

    Image processed by CodeCarvings Piczard ### FREE Community Edition ### on 2019-02-22 05:01:02Z | http://piczard.com | http://codecarvings.comÿÿÿ<CTU†­

    The government will stick with the sales and services tax (SST) and currently has no consideration for the goods and services tax (GST) due to the ongoing burden of the cost of living, reports The Edge.

    Second finance minister Datuk Seri Amir Hamzah Azizan said the government would continue to improve the SST to reduce the impact of cascading taxes and simplify compliance. He added that the SST provided room for a more progressive and targeted approach.

    “The government can choose which goods and services to tax while exempting essential items. Although some of the tax may be passed on through prices, the scope of taxation can be determined with the people’s affordability in mind,” Amir Hamzah said in parliament yesterday (October 29, 2026).

    On the GST, Amir Hamzah said the tax system tended to be regressive because lower-income groups typically spent a larger proportion of their income on goods and services. “In other words, even at the same tax rate, the burden relative to income is heavier for the people, particularly the B40 and M40 groups Therefore, any additional revenue must be assessed alongside the burden borne by the people,” he explained.

    Government to stick with SST and improve it, says MoF – GST not being considered due to high cost of living

    Data from Malaysia’s 2027 fiscal outlook and federal government revenue report showed that SST collections are estimated to increase to RM67 billion in 2026 from RM55.9 billion in 2025. A further rise to RM73.3 billion is projected for 2027, representing an increase of RM17.4 billion over two years.

    “This increase demonstrates the SST’s ability to generate revenue to finance the country’s needs. At the same time, the government has the flexibility to determine which goods and services are taxed on a targeted basis while exempting essential items,” said Amir Hamzah. He added that while GST has advantages in terms of collection efficiency, transparency and the input tax credit mechanism, the tax system Malaysia chooses must take into account the people’s ability to pay.

    The second finance minister also touched upon the matter of compliance, revealing that nearly 700,000 businesses were registered under the GST in 2018 compared to only about 130,000 under the SST in 2026. This indicates that more businesses would have to bear compliance costs under the GST system.

    While the GST isn’t coming back, it was reported in August by The Star that prime minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim had directed the ministry of finance to conduct a full study on the proposal to introduce a hybrid taxation system that combines the SST with GST.

     
  • MLFF system can detect toll evasion – works minister

    MLFF system can detect toll evasion – works minister

    Multi-lane fast flow (MLFF), or barrier-less toll collection, is expected to help address toll evasion, including by identifying fare dodgers, works minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi has said, according to a Bernama report.

    “The implementation of the MLFF system at toll plaza lanes will also assist in obtaining information regarding individuals who commit toll evasion. This, in turn, facilitates the tracking of such offenders and enables claims to be made against them should they evade detection,” he said yesterday.

    The media reported on October 23 that the concessionaire and operator of the Kuala Lumpur-Karak Expressway and the East Coast Expressway Phase 1 (LPT1) is incurring losses of over RM20,000 a year due to persistent toll evasion.

    MLFF system can detect toll evasion – works minister

    AFA Systems and Services general manager Ismaliza Ibrahim reportedly said his organisation records about 3,000 toll evasion incidents a year, with an average of eight cases daily.

    Under Section 8 of the Federal Roads (Private Management) Act 1984, individuals found guilty of toll evasion face a fine of no less than RM2,000 and no more than RM5,000, or imprisonment for up to one year.

    MLFF has been talked about in Malaysia as early as 2008. Today, nearly two decades later, although we have Touch ‘n Go’s Enhanced RFID and PLUS’ JustGo automatic number plate recognition (ANPR)-based system at the forefront, they are not really MLFF systems yet (like Singapore’s Electronic Road Pricing, or ERP system) as there are still barriers and drivers still need to slow down. Will we have two competing systems? Read more here.

     
 

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