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Peugeot 408 in Malaysia – over 300 bookings; 60% for top GT variant, 22% for Premium, 18% for Allure
Peugeot Malaysia has announced that the recently-launched Peugeot 408 has accrued more than 300 bookings since the order books opened this year, with the vast majority opting for the top trim level.
The proportions for bookings split between variants were 60% for the GT, 22% for the Premium and 18% for the base Allure, according to Peugeot Malaysia, which it says is “testament to the market demand and popularity of the car”. Launched last month, the 2024 Peugeot 408 started from RM146,055 for the Allure, ranging up to RM166,055 and RM196,055 for the Premium and GT variants, respectively.
“Today marks the starting point in the Peugeot 408 story as we begin delivering customer orders. The feedback and response have been positive, and we look forward to maintaining and keeping up with the momentum of the 408. We are also pleased to celebrate our first 10 owners and we welcome them and future 408 owners to the Peugeot family,” said Stellantis Malaysia managing director Jamie Francis Morais.
From launch, all three variants of the 2024 Peugeot 408 are powered by the firm’s 1.6 litre PureTech turbocharged inline-four cylinder petrol engine that outputs 218 PS at 5,750 rpm and 300 Nm of torque at 2,000 rpm; outputs which are sent to the front wheels through an eight-speed automatic transmission.
2024 Peugeot 408 GT in Malaysia The GT variant is identified externally by its Monolithe black alloy wheel design, automatic matrix LED headlamps and 3D ‘claw effect’ LED tail lamps, along with its front grille finished in body colour.
Interior equipment for the 408 begins with vinyl trim for the base Allure, while the Premium gets leather upholstery, and the GT cabin gets Nappa leather, which also gets driver’s seat memory and massage functions (all three variants get electric adjustment for the driver’s seat).
Further highlights of the GT variant include 3D quartz i-Cockpit instrumentation with configurable i-Toggle controls, 10-speaker Focal audio, and a cabin air cleaning system.
All three variants of the 2024 Peugeot 408 range are covered by a seven-year/200,000 km warranty, of which three years are of manufacturer warranty coverage, followed by four years of extended warranty coverage by Stellantis Malaysia.
2024 Peugeot 408 GT in Malaysia
2024 Peugeot 408 Premium in Malaysia
2024 Peugeot 408 Allure in Malaysia
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Singaporean cars entering Malaysia required to get VEP RFID from Oct 1 – RM10 tag for RC, toll payments
Singaporean-registered vehicles entering Malaysia will be required to have a vehicle entry permit (VEP) from October 1 this year, transport minister Anthony Loke has announced. This will be with a new VEP RFID tag issued by the the Malaysian road transport department (JPJ), costing RM10 each.
Owners of Singaporean cars may choose to have the RFID tag installed at specific collection centres in Malaysia, or request for the tag to be delivered for self-installation, Loke said. The RFID tag will be valid for five years, and is not transferable between owners or vehicles.
This regulation will apply to both entry points to the country; at the Customs, Immigration, and Quarantine (CIQ) complex at the Sultan Iskandar Building (BSI) in Tambak, Johor, as well as the CIQ Complex at the Sultan Abu Bakar building at the Malaysia-Singapore Second Link.
The VEP RFID tag can then be used for toll fare payment through RFID lanes at toll plazas in Malaysia, as well as the RM20 per entry road charge (RC) that has been in place since 2015. The VEP RFID will be tied to the car owner’s Touch ‘n Go eWallet account for toll and RC payments.
While the RM10 fee for the VEP RFID tag is cheaper than the RM35 RFID tag used by Malaysians for toll fare, the former will also incur a collection agent service fee of RM29.50, which then makes it slightly more expensive. Postage will add on separate fees too.
“All foreign vehicle owners are encouraged to register, install and activate their VEP RFID tags within the next four months before October. This is to avoid any issues when traveling by foreign vehicle between the two countries in the foreseeable future,” the transport minister said.
Drivers of foreign vehicles from Singapore who are entering, or have already entered Malaysia and who fail to obtain the VEP RFID tag after the October 1 deadline will have committed an offence under Section 66H(7) of the Road Transport Act 1987, and those found guilty will be compounded or receive a fine of up to RM2,000, or face imprisonment for up to six months under Section 119 (2) of the same act, he added.
The JPJ will have full authority to deny vehicles entry into Malaysia if these do not have the VEP RFID tag after the enforcement date. The department will also have the authority to prevent foreign vehicles from leaving the country should there be unresolved issues, such as unpaid fines or traffic summonses, among others, under the Road Transport Act 1987, the minister added.
The decision to begin enforcement of VEP RFID tag use from October was to allow ample time for owners of foreign-registered vehicles to register and install their tags, according to Loke.
“Based on records, there are currently over 200,000 foreign vehicles who have applied for VEP but only 70,000 have activated their RFID tags. As such, this four-month period would help prevent any sort of sudden mad rush of vehicle owners travelling between the two countries which would cause unnecessary traffic congestion,” he said.
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Remainder of FFF number plates available from June 1 – RM510 each at JPJ Putrajaya and state HQs
We look at all the VIP number plates on the road and read about the huge sums that people pay for them, plus the considerable total revenue JPJ collects, so it’s easy to forget that not every number has takers in the auction – that’s how the rest of us get random ‘running numbers’.
This applies to special editions as well, such as the recent FFF series to commemorate JPJ’s 78th anniversary. Eager to not let any of its FFF numbers ‘go to waste’ (these releases are created for extra revenue after all), JPJ has announced the offering of remaining FFF plates that survived the JPJ eBid auction, which was held from May 11-15.
Is what you want still available? You can check at the vehicle licensing division at JPJ’s Putrajaya HQ or at state JPJ offices from this Saturday, June 1.
Applications can be made via a representative, and each person is limited to three applications. To apply, you’ll need a copy of an IC or business registration cert and a filled JPJ eBid 02 form, which can be downloaded from JPJ’s website. How much? The remaining FFF plates are priced at RM510 each inclusive of a service fee, the same price as the GOLD leftovers from earlier this year.
Happy hunting, but just don’t expect the pretty pieces to be still available.
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Chery Malaysia Omoda 5 recall: 92% of cars inspected
Here’s an update on the Chery Omoda 5 rear axle issue and recall. Chery Malaysia has completed 92% of vehicle inspections for affected customers as of May 24.
“At Chery Malaysia, ensuring your safety is our utmost concern. As of May 24, we have completed 92% of vehicle inspections for the affected customers who had scheduled appointments at our authorised service centres,” the company said in a social media post yesterday.
The previous update on the matter was on May 17, when Chery announced that it had managed to contact all 600 customers affected by the recall. Then, the inspection completion rate was 65%. Prior to that, the carmaker successfully contacted 60 customers for rear axle replacement.
There’s no typo there. A total of 60 units of the Omoda 5 in Malaysia were identified to be using the affected part, produced on August 15, 2023. Chery Malaysia then decided to cast a wider net and recall vehicles with parts made between August 14 and 17, totalling 600 units.
The root cause of the issue has been identified to be a miscalibration of welding equipment at a vendor. “Following a comprehensive investigation, the vendor reported that the issue was due to a facility upgrade during which a worn-out tip of the automated welding machine was replaced by a new welding tip. The replacement of the new welding tip resulted in a miscalibration of the equipment,” Chery Auto Malaysia VP Lee Wen Hsiang said earlier this month.
Chery has set up a website for owners to check whether or not their car is included in the recall.
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Polis block Karak highway in joint operation to bust Genting touge cars and bikes – Ops Samseng Jalanan
A major roadblock was held last Sunday on the Kuala Lumpur-Karak Expressway, in a joint operation consisting of the Bukit Aman traffic investigation and enforcement department (JSPT), the road transport department (JPJ) and the national anti-drug agency (AADK), New Straits Times reported. It was part of Operasi Khas Trafik Samseng Jalanan.
Numerous cars and bikes were seen attempting to u-turn and travel against the flow of traffic to avoid the roadblock, according to the report, only to find that the authorities have completely blocked the road behind them too. Footage from social media showed the BHPetrol station on the eastbound direction shortly after the Gombak toll plaza – a popular meeting spot for Genting touge-ers – where enforcement officers appeared to have stopped all motorists, and carried out checks on parked vehicles.
The operation began at 7am on the day, with 28 summonses issued for various offences found, NST reported. “The offences include three cases of driving without a licence, one case of an expired licence, three cases of exhaust modifications, one case of not displaying an ‘L’ sticker, 16 cases of unclear or fancy number plates, and other miscellaneous offences,” said Bukit Aman JSPT acting director Datuk Mohd Nasri Omar.
Some 18 summonses and were issued, and 16 vehicles were ordered to undergo inspection, the JSPT acting director added.
“The objective of the operation is to advocate road safety among highway users. We want to ensure that road users complied with the law, including using vehicles that met proper specifications, following numerous public complaints along the East Coast Highway,” Nasri said.
Enforcement action was taken only against those who were non-compliant and posed a danger to themselves and other road users, he added.
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Budi Madani website is up – here’s how to apply for the govt’s RM200 per month targeted diesel subsidy
The Madani government’s much talked about targeted subsidy programme is here, with diesel fuel kicking things off before RON 95 petrol eventually comes onboard. Basically, fuel prices will no longer be at today’s low subsidised price at the pumps, but those deemed in need of assistance will be given direct cash transfers to offset the price increase.
That sum is RM200 per month, as announced by the finance ministry (MoF) yesterday. The Program Bantuan Subsidi Madani, or in short, Budi Madani, is for private owners of diesel vehicles and agriculture smallholders in Peninsular Malaysia. Sabah and Sarawak will continue to receive fuel subsidy at the pumps – no change for East Malaysia.
Applications are open today, May 28, and one can apply for Budi Madani subsidies under Budi Individu or Budi Agri-Komoditi categories for farmers (fleet owners have their own Sistem Kawalan Diesel Bersubsidi fleet card). The criteria for Budi Individual is that one must be a Malaysian citizen and an owner of a JPJ-registered diesel private vehicle.
Click to enlarge Said vehicle must not be a ‘luxury’ diesel vehicle below 10 years of age. The government is yet to spell out its classification of luxury, so we’ll see if high-end pick-up trucks are included. In any case, owners of such trucks will likely be over the RM100,000 annual income threshold (individuals and couples), and the government said that it will cross-check with LHDN on this. Finally, the diesel vehicle must have valid road tax.
The Budi Madani website is up and the main page greets you with a brief introduction of the programme and why it is needed. Scroll down and you’ll see three categories for applications – the above-mentioned MySubsidi Diesel (SKDS) fleet card, Budi Individu and Budi Agri-Komoditi.
We’ll focus on Budi Individu here. Log in using your IC number without dashes/space and you’ll be directed to a page to fill in all your personal details, as well as the details of the diesel-powered vehicle(s) that you own.
Click to enlarge What they need is your number plate, make and model of your vehicle, usage class and road tax expiry date. There are a couple of slots if you have more than one applicable vehicle – see the screenshot above. Of course, all the details that you input will be cross-checked with the relevant government agency, which in this case is the JPJ.
MoF says that those whose applications are approved before June 3 will receive their first Budi Madani payout by mid-June, and subsequent payments will be made monthly. For applications approved after June 3, one will receive his/her first payment within two weeks, and every month thereafter. The monthly sum will be transferred into the bank account that you stated in the application form. You can appeal your case if rejected – the website has a ‘rayuan’ section that will be active in mid-June.
It was not explicitly stated, but the fact that payouts will start as early as next month clearly means that pump prices for diesel in Peninsular Malaysia will be floated to market price very soon. As of today, unsubsidised Euro 5 diesel is selling for RM3.33 per litre – compared to the controlled price of RM2.15, that’s an increase of RM1.18 per litre, a 55% jump.
Here’s some back-of-the-envelope calculation. Using RM3.33 per litre as the market price, the Budi Madani RM200 payout will make up the price difference for up to 169.5 litres of diesel fuel a month.
If your truck is doing around 10 km/l, that works out to an average mileage of 1,700 km per month before the targeted subsidy runs out. Do more than that and you’ll pay the full price for diesel, just like the T20s in their Raptors (if that high-performance Ford Ranger is classified as luxury). However, diesel pump prices may be adjusted upwards in stages, as opposed to an overnight jump to market price.
For now, the majority of motorists in their petrol-powered cars will sit and observe, but it surely won’t be long till the government abolishes blanket subsidy for RON 95 fuel. When that happens, it’s logical that this direct cash transfer programme – currently ‘on trial’ with diesel – will be used. At the time of writing, non-subsidised RON 95 is priced at RM3.35 per litre – RM1.30 more than the controlled price of RM2.05, a 63% increase. Are you ready?
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Peugeot Landtrek SE launched in Malaysia – RM129k
The Peugeot line-up in Malaysia is now joined by the Peugeot Landtrek Special Edition, which was shown at the recent 2024 Malaysia Autoshow.
Priced at RM129,124 on-the-road without insurance, the Landtrek SE comes at a RM5,000 premium relative to the 1.9D Allure variant, which continues to be on sale at RM124,124, increased from RM120,072 at its Malaysian launch, when the brand was previously under Bermaz.
Powertrain for the Landtrek SE is carried over from the Allure variant, using the 1,910 cc inline-four cylinder turbodiesel that outputs 150 PS at 4,000 rpm and 350 Nm from 1,800 rpm to 2,800 rpm, mated to a six-speed automatic transmission and switchable four-wheel-drive with 2H, 4H and 4L driveline modes.
Chassis for the Landtrek SE is as on the Allure variant, with double wishbone front suspension and leaf springs at the rear, with ventilated disc brakes in front and drum brakes at the rear. Wheels are 18-inch diamond-cut two-tone alloy wheels, shod in 265/60R18 tyres. Its spare wheel is a full-sized unit.
Exterior equipment continues to be automatic LED headlamps with LED daytime running lights, with bulb-type front foglamps, tail lamps, and rear fog lamps. Also found here are rain-sensing windscreen wipers, electrically adjustable and folding exterior mirrors with indicators, roof rails, side steps, and with two parking sensors in front and four at the rear.
Among the changes over the Allure variant launched last year are in the rear half of the Landtrek SE, namely with tailgate dampers, and a cargo bed liner with Peugeot script, instead of ‘Kaicene’, as in the Changan Kaicene F70 that the Landtrek is developed from.
Also gained by the Landtrek SE are black wheelarch extensions, while also distinguishing the Landtrek SE from the Allure are the black Landtrek decals along the sides of the vehicle, black bezels, and black tubular side steps.
Inside, connectivity equipment for the Landtrek SE brings a 10-inch infotainment screen that supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with a 360-degree camera feed with 3D vision to aid manoeuvring.
Safety kit in the Landtrek SE is comprised of DSC, ASR, EBD, ESP, trailer swing control, hill start assist, hill descent control, and lane departure warning, along with six airbags and Isofix points for mounting child seats.
In Malaysia, the Peugeot Landtrek is sold with a three-year, 100,000 km manufacturer warranty, and is offered in two exterior colours – Rockstone Grey, and Ceramic White.
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CIMB rolls out contactless payment for EV charging, cardholders get 15% discount at EVPower chargers
CIMB Bank is collaborating with JuiceUP and Visa to introduce what it says is a first-in-market contactless payment solution for charge point operators. Basically, just tap your debit or credit card to pay for EV charging, without the use of apps.
“In line with shifting consumer preferences toward seamless and instant payments, CIMB is pleased to offer a first-in-market contactless payment solution, designed to streamline transactions at charge points, ensuring a seamless process for EV users to enhance the overall customer journey. This underscores CIMB’s commitment to advancing sustainable mobility through innovative offerings that elevate the EV ownership experience,” said Effendy Shahul Hamid, CEO of group consumer and digital banking at CIMB Group.
“Kicking off our partnership with EVPower, we look to welcome more CPO operators nationwide to continually enhance and simplify payments, providing CIMB customers with dependable and accessible charging solutions with innovative propositions to further promote the adoption of electric vehicles,” he added.
“We are pleased to work with CIMB to offer the contactless payment solution for the convenience of EV users. JuiceUP provides a comprehensive EV charging solution, featuring a Charge Point Management System for operators to manage, monitor, onboard, and analyse charger data across multiple locations. Our platform is designed with scalability in mind, allowing operators to expand their network of charging stations seamlessly as demand grows,” said Benson Lim, CEO of JuiceUP.
The contactless payment is at EVPower charging stations and CIMB credit and debit cardholders get up to 15% off. The bank is also extending an exclusive offer to successful applicants of its EV financing – complimentary EVPower EV+ membership, inclusive of RM300 charge credits, a 10% extra wallet reload bonus and subsidised idle fees. Customers can also enjoy a RM1,500 discount on a 22 kW home wall charger from EVPower.
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Diesel subsidy programme to offer RM200 per month to diesel owners – pump prices up to RM3.33/litre soon
The ministry of finance (MOF) of Malaysia has announced the Madani subsidy assistance programme, or Budi Madani for private owners of diesel vehicles and agriculture smallholders in Peninsular Malaysia.
UPDATE: The Budi Madani application website is now open.
Applications open tomorrow, May 28, 2024 for eligible individuals, who may apply for Budi Madani subsidies under Budi Individual and Budi Agri-Commodity categories. Successful applicants in both categories will receive a RM200 monthly sum in financial assistance as part of the targeted subsidy programme for diesel, the ministry stated.
Criteria for Budi Individual applicant eligibility are as follows:
- Malaysian citizenship
- Owner of a JPJ-registered diesel private vehicle, except luxury diesel vehicles less than 10 years of age
- Vehicle has valid road tax
- Annual income of RM100,000 and under (individuals and couples)
Criteria for Budi Agri-Commodity applicant eligibility are as follows:
- Registered farmer or smallholder with relevant agencies under the ministry of agriculture and food security (KPKM) or the ministry of plantation and commodities (KPK)
- Able to demonstrate annual turnover of between RM50,000 and RM300,000 from farming or commodity production
Click to enlarge Applications can be made online at the Budi Madani website, which will be online throughout the year, according to the ministry of finance. Applicants who have had their applications approved before June 3, 2024 will receive their first Budi Madani payout by mid-June 2024, and subsequent payments will be made monthly.
For applications approved after June 3, 2024, successful applicants will receive their first payment within two weeks, and every month thereafter. The monthly sum will be transferred into the bank account of your choice, or in cash from any BSN branch for successful applicants without a bank account.
While it’s not explicitly written, the fact that payouts will start as early as June 2024 clearly means that the in-station pump prices for diesel fuel in Peninsular Malaysia will be floated to market prices very soon. As of today, unsubsidised diesel Euro 5 is priced at RM3.33 per litre, compared to the controlled price of RM2.15. That’s an increase of RM1.18 per litre, or 55%!
Using these numbers, the RM200 payout will make up the price difference for up to 169.5 litres of diesel fuel each month. For a diesel car doing around 10 km/L (diesel vehicles are mostly large and heavy), that works out to an average mileage of just 1,700 km per month, before the “subsidy” runs out. Any more, and you’ll be spending more on fuel than you do now.
This monthly cash transfer programme will likely extend to petrol users too, as and when the government decides to lift subsidies on RON 95 fuel. At the time of writing, non-subsidised RON 95 is priced at RM3.35 per litre – RM1.30 more than the current controlled price of RM2.05, or a 63% increase. Get ready, everyone!
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Chery Tiggo 8 Pro Max scores five-star ANCAP rating
The Chery Tiggo 8 Pro Max is the latest from the Chinese brand to achieve the full, five-star rating in the Australasian New Car Assessment Program (ANCAP), joining its stablemates the Tiggo 7 Pro (crash test video below) and the Omoda 5 in attaining the five-star rating in the safety assessment.
In Malaysia, the Chery Tiggo 8 Pro was launched in July 2023 alongside the B-segment Omoda 5 as part of the brand’s re-entry into the Malaysian market.
The ANCAP rating for the Tiggo 8 Pro Max applies to all variants of the SUV, in which the three-row SUV was scored based on its stablemate, the Tiggo 7 Pro, with additional pedestrian impact tests, and ANCAP was provided with technical information to show that the test results of the Tiggo 7 Pro also apply to the Tiggo 8 Pro Max, according to the agency.
In this assessment, the Tiggo 8 Pro Max scored 88% in the adult occupant protection category, 87% in the child occupant protection category, 79% in the vulnerable road user protection category, and 86% in the safety assistance systems category. However, the third-row seats in the vehicle did not come with top tether anchors, and therefore installation of child restraints in the third row is not recommended.
The adult occupant protection report for the Tiggo 8 Pro Max in the frontal offset crash test saw a rating of 5.49 points out of eight points, while the full width frontal test saw 7.48 points out of eight points. the oblique pole test saw 4.84 points out of six points, and whiplash protection saw 3.52 points out of four points, while side impact and far side impact tests scored the full six points and four points, respectively.
Child occupant protection in the frontal dynamic test saw 15.70 points out of 16, and the side dynamic test saw 7.62 points out of eight points. Restraint installation scored 11.43 points out of 12 points, while on-board safety features scored eight out of 13 points.
In terms of vulnerable user protection, the vehicle scored 12.72 points from 18 for head protection, 1.50 points from 4.5 points for pelvis protection, 4.50 points from 4.5 points for femur protection, 8.48 points from nine points for knee and tibia protection, 5.65 from seven points for AEB pedestrian (forward), one point out of two for AEB pedestrian (backover), 7.91 points from nine points for AEB (cyclist), 5.54 from six points for AEB (motorcycle), and 3.00 points out of three for lane support systems (motorcycle).
For safety assistance systems, the Tiggo 8 Pro Max scored a full point for seat belt reminders, 1.65 points from two points for driver monitoring, 2.45 points from three points for speed assistance systems, 3.60 points from four points for car-to-car AEB/AES, 3.08 points from four points for junction and crossing AEB/AES, 0.75 points from one point for head-on AEB/AES, and a full three points for lane support systems.
GALLERY: 2023 Chery Tiggo 8 Pro in Malaysia
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Yinson GreenTech showcases its new range of EV products and services at the Malaysia Autoshow 2024
Yinson GreenTech (YGT) made quite a splash at the recent Malaysia Autoshow 2024 with its ‘Positively Charged – Energising the Electric Transition’ showcase, which featured a range of sustainable electric vehicle (EV) solutions for both consumers and businesses.
One of the major highlights of the event was the unveiling of rydeEV’s CERVO e-bike that expands YGT’s line-up of offerings. Designed in Europe, the CERVO provides a range of up to 110 km on a single charge, making it ideal for extended journeys. Other features include a top speed of 100 km/h, a boost mode as well as support for fast charging to get you back on the move quicker.
In addition to the CERVO, YGT’s leasing business, drivEV, welcomed four new models, including the GAC Aion Y Plus, Maxus eDeliver 7, Maxus eDeliver 3 and Maxus T90 EV, the last of which is Malaysia’s first electric pick-up truck. With flexible leasing plans, drivEV is an ideal way for individuals or businesses to enter the EV world, with a wide range of models to suit their tastes and budgets.
It wasn’t just EVs that were highlighted by YGT at the Malaysia Autshow, as the company also added EV chargers from Kempower, Alpitronic and Autel to its portfolio. Furthermore, chargEV entered into a strategic alliance with Kineta to expand the country’s charging infrastructure and improve the experience for EV owners here.
More surprising at the event was YGT’s marinEV business which presented prototypes of electric crew transfer and light cargo vessels. These are aimed at bringing sustainable maritime transportation and underlines the company’s commitment to electrifying all aspects of transportation, be it on land or water.
Lastly, there’s YGT’s digitalEV, which is an integrated command centre concept powered by AI tools for businesses to increase their productivity levels. Through this platform, businesses will find it much easier and efficient to adopt EVs into their vehicle fleets.
With EV transition being a major talking point in today’s world, YGT aims to be at the forefront to support individuals and businesses looking to make the switch. The company’s showcase at the Malaysia Autoshow is testament to this and all are invited to join to electric revolution by visiting YGT’s official website.
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2024 Lexus LM in Malaysia – posh Alphard/Vellfire, 7-seat LM350h and 4-seat LM500h, RM1.2mil to RM1.5mil
Three years since the original rolled onto the scene, UMW Toyota Motor has officially launched the new second-generation Lexus LM in Malaysia. Built on the bones of the fourth-generation Toyota Alphard that debuted in October (alongside the related Vellfire), the ultra-luxurious MPV comes with even more tech and toys, along with greater differentiation over its more pedestrian siblings.
For the first time, the LM is being offered here in two variants, differentiated not just by the powertrain (now consisting only of hybrids) but also the number of seats. A new seven-seater model joins the lineup in the form of the LM350h, priced at RM1,228,000 on-the-road without insurance, while the ridiculously plush four-seat layout has been retained in the LM500h, now costing a heady RM1,468,000.
The new LM may still be based on the Alphard and share much of that car’s mechanicals, but so much has changed that it now has its own AW10 codename (ironically shared with the original AW10/AW11 Toyota MR2; the current Alphard/Vellfire’s is AH40). Nowhere is this more evident than under the bonnet, where the LM is – in Malaysia at least – the only one of the trio to feature a hybrid-only lineup.
No longer does the Lexus have a six-cylinder engine – instead it’s powered solely by four cylinders. The LM350h uses Toyota’s tried-and-true Hybrid Synergy Drive, consisting of a 2.5 litre A25A-FXS Dynamic Force naturally-aspirated Atkinson-cycle engine producing 190 PS at 6,000 rpm and 239 Nm of torque from 4,300 to 4,500 rpm.
This is connected to an eCVT with twin electric motors, churning out 182 PS and 270 Nm and resulting in a total system output of 250 PS – all sent to the front wheels. So equipped, the LM350h gets from zero to 100 km/h in 9.1 seconds on its way to a top speed of 190 km/h, while combined fuel consumption figure is rated at 5.5 litres per 100 km.
Step up to the LM500h and you get an altogether more serious Direct4 all-wheel-drive parallel hybrid powertrain, lifted straight from the RX500h. This is centred around a 2.4 litre T24A-FTS turbocharged mill that churns out 275 PS at 6,000 rpm and 460 Nm between 2,000 and 3,000 rpm, paired with a six-speed automatic gearbox sandwiching an 87 PS/292 Nm electric motor.
A separate 103 PS/169 Nm motor drives the rear wheels, contributing to a total system output of 371 PS and 550 Nm. This slashes the century sprint time by over two seconds (down to 6.9 seconds), but the top speed also drops to 185 km/h. Given the extra power, it’s no surprise that fuel consumption has also increased to 6.6 litres per 100 km.
The differences between the Lexus and Toyota models extend to the exterior. For the first time, the LM uses bespoke sheet metal, meaning that it will be almost impossible for Alphard owners to make a convincing “conversion” this time around.
The side body panels with their intersecting shoulder lines are unique, as are the blacked-out A-pillars and the inverted body-coloured D-pillar fin. The window line also drops down at the B-pillars (instead of rising upwards on the Toyotas), giving the towkays at the back a better view out.
At the front, you’ll find Lexus’ latest “spindle body” grille (a development of the brand’s trademark “spindle grille”), coming with a hot-stamped satin finish for the silver inlays – a Lexus first. This is flanked by triple-projector LED headlights with upper and lower L-shaped daytime running lights. The intricate multi-spoke alloy wheels, which still feature noise reduction technology, are now an inch larger at 19 inches in diameter – finally on par with the Alphard and Vellfire.
Moving to the rear, the LM gets U-shaped full-width taillights joined by an illuminated bar, along with the Lexus script. As per the Alphard and Vellfire, the tailgate opening and closing buttons have been moved to the side near the taillights, preventing users from being in the way of the massive rear door. Unfortunately, there’s no hands-free opening or closing function whatsoever.
Another feature that sets the LM apart from the Alphard and Vellfire is Lexus’ e-Latch front doors, introduced on the second-gen NX. This enables the door opening warning function to be extended, preventing the doors from being opened if the car senses a passing car. As an added bonus, you also get soft-close doors.
Just like the Alphard, the LM moves onto the K variant of the Toyota New Global Architecture (GA-K), featuring MacPherson strut front and double wishbone rear suspension. For the first time, the LM gets adaptive dampers with frequency-selective valving, plus a unique Rear Comfort drive mode that reduces vibrations in the cabin. Active noise cancellation has also been added.
Measuring 5,125 mm long, 1,890 mm wide and 1,955 mm tall, the new LM is 85 mm longer, 40 mm wider and 45 mm taller than before, although the 3,000 mm wheelbase is retained. Against the Alphard, the Lexus is 115 mm longer, 40 mm wider and five millimetres longer. Boot space is quoted at 752 litres on the LM500h and 1,191 litres for the LM350h, the latter presumably with the folding third-row seats tipped up to the side.
Inside, the LM is just as bespoke as the outside, with a typically Lexus design wrapped in sumptuous materials. These include semi-aniline leather upholstery in either Solis White or Black, as well as Yabane herringbone matte wood trim and some Ultrasuede trim. Weirdly enough, only the LM350h gets a Bengala wood-trimmed steering wheel; the LM500h’s is full-leather as it’s heated.
In terms of tech, you get Lexus’ Tazuna infotainment interface again first seen on the NX, incorporating a 12.3-inch digital instrument display, a 14-inch centre touchscreen, physical climate control dials and the jettisoning of the awful Remote Touch pad. Wireless Apple CarPlay and wired Android Auto come as standard.
At the back, the four-seater LM500h still features two business class-style seats that are fully reclinable and come with an ottoman and heating, ventilation and massage functions (now operable through two removable smartphone-like tablets). However, rear occupants now gain access to a much larger 48-inch widescreen display, replete with a split-screen function and twin HDMI inputs to facilitate this.
The LM500h’s massive screen is mounted on a massive partition between the front and rear cabins, featuring a retractable electrochromic glass screen and die-cast magnesium frame for increased rigidity. Also unique to the more expensive model are a fridge, large twin storage compartments and an umbrella holder on either side.
Relative plebs in the LM350h still get power-adjustable captain’s chairs on the second-row (again with the aforementioned tablets) and three seats at the back, plus a comparatively tiny 14-inch ceiling-mounted rear monitor. Both variants come with twin glass roof panels, magnesium folding tables with leather surfaces and powered sunshades on all rear windows.
The Lexus Climate Concierge comes standard with four zones and Panasonic’s Nanoe X air ioniser. Further differentiating the LM500h are infrared sensors aimed at the two rear passengers, identifying the temperature of four specific body areas (face, chest and upper and lower legs) and adjusting the air-conditioning to suit.
Standard kit includes keyless entry, push-button start, power-adjustable front seats and steering column, a Mark Levinson Reference sound system (with 21 speakers for the LM350h and 23 speakers for the LM500h) and a 360-degree camera system with a “see through” function. Unlike the previous model, you no longer get a front sunroof, and while Qi wireless chargers are still available, they are now only found at the rear.
Safety-wise, all models get the Lexus Safety System+ suite of driver assists, including autonomous emergency braking, adaptive cruise control with stop and go, lane centring assist, blind spot monitoring and rear cross traffic alert with auto brake. New for 2024 are a camera-based driver attention monitor, park assist and front cross traffic alert, also with auto brake.
GALLERY: Lexus LM500h
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SKDS Subsidised Diesel Control System 2.0 – five oil companies issue 90,000 fleet cards for subsidised fuel
The implementation of the subsidised diesel control system 2.0 (SKDS 2.0) has seen the handing over of 90,000 fleet cards issued by five petroleum companies, namely BHPetrol, Petron, Caltex, Shell and Petronas, to eligible transport companies in a ceremony last week.
As of May 22, a total of 28,000 land transport companies have registered for, and received approval under the implementation of SKDS 2.0, and 90,000 fleet cards have been issued by the five major petroleum companies to eligible transport companies, according to minister of domestic trade and cost of living (KPDN) Datuk Armizan Mohd Ali.
Table of vehicles eligible for Subsidised Diesel Control System 2.0 (SKDS 2.0) A total of 33 types of land transport vehicles eligible to receive subsidised diesel under the SKDS 2.0 scheme, the minister said. The nine types of eligible land transport vehicles include general cargo lorries, bottled drinks lorries, refrigerated lorries, luton lorries, prime movers, flour tankers, water tankers, panel vans and window vans, as listed on the KPDN website.
Companies which have been approved for the SKDS 2.0 scheme may apply for the fleet card through petroleum companies such BHPetrol, the company said in a statement, and companies may apply through its website once approval from KPDN has been received.
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Honda Malaysia Q1 2024 sales up 23% YoY – 21,500 units; 2 new models launching this year, Civic facelift?
At the recent launch of the facelifted Honda City Hatchback, Honda Malaysia revealed it managed to deliver 21,500 vehicles in the first quarter of 2024. This represents a 23% year-over-year (YoY) increase compared to the first three months a year ago.
Earlier in March, the company revealed that it had set a sales target of 95,000 units for 2024, which is 19% more than the 80,000 units set for 2023 (the company exceeded this target). With the Q1 2024 sales tally, Honda Malaysia is now 73,500 units shy of this year’s goal with several months to go.
In terms of models, it was already announced that two new Honda models will be launched this year, with the refreshed City Hatchback being one of them. According to the company, 28,700 units of the B-segment model have been sold since its initial introduction back in December 2021.
The second model – though not mentioned – is very likely the Civic facelift, which made its debut in the United States in January this year – the HR-V facelift is another possibility. Honda Malaysia said in March that it wants to place a greater emphasis on e:HEV hybrid models here, suggesting more variants with an electrified powertrain are coming our way.
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Chery Malaysia signs MoU with MoF’s Technology Depository Agency, to promote ESG practices
Chery Auto Malaysia recently signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Technology Depository Agency (TDA), a government agency under the finance ministry. Chery says the collaboration signifies a significant commitment to promoting environmental, social and governance (ESG) practices within the Malaysian automotive sector.
According to the press release, TDA plays a pivotal role in fostering Malaysia’s economic and tech advancement. Through its Industrial Collaboration Programme (ICP), TDA acts as a bridge, connecting local industries with world-leading technology partners. ICP empowers Malaysian companies to acquire critical knowledge and enhance their global competitiveness through government procurement.
The MoU between Chery and TDA marks a new chapter in promoting sustainable practices within the Malaysian automotive industry. This collaboration will focus on developing and implementing innovative ESG initiatives that will benefit the nation, the organisations say.
The Chery Tiggo 8 Pro e+ PHEV was previewed at the Malaysia Autoshow 2024 “This MoU signifies our dedication to exploring, extending, and enhancing collaborative efforts, which will not only strengthen our interactions but also drive meaningful impacts among stakeholders, professionals, and staff,” said Chery Auto Malaysia president Leo Chen.
“Through this partnership, we will explore solutions for environmental concerns and social well-being. Our aim is to develop and implement innovative programmes that address both environmental and social issues,” said Dr. Sharoul Jambari, CEO of TDA.
The two parties say that the initiatives planned include reducing waste, promoting cleaner production processes, and exploring responsible battery management practices within the EV industry. Additionally, the collaboration aims to improve working conditions within the automotive supply chain, foster diversity and inclusion within the workforce, and contribute to local communities through social responsibility programmes.
