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  • GWM Tank 300 HEV open for booking in Malaysia – 2.0T, 9HAT, 347 PS/648 Nm, auto parking, app support

    GWM Tank 300 HEV open for booking in Malaysia – 2.0T, 9HAT, 347 PS/648 Nm, auto parking, app support

    The GWM Tank 300 HEV (already in Thailand since 2023) is now open for booking in Malaysia, which means the ICE car, launched here in July 2024, is going to get a hybrid sister soon. This guy has a 2.0 litre turbo engine, an electric motor and a nine-speed hybrid automatic transmission. Total output? 347 PS and 648 Nm of torque, eclipsing our ICE car’s 220 PS/380 Nm.

    Four-wheel drive plus front and rear locking diffs help you when the going gets tough, and there’s tank turn, crawl control mode with a 66% max climbing degree, a 700-mm max wading depth, all-terrain progress control with seven modes (the ICE car has nine). Departure, ramp and approach angles are respectively 34-, 23- and 33-degrees – same as the ICE car.

    Also like the ICE car, the HEV should have auto air-con with rear vents, powered front seats with driver’s seat massage, faux Nappa leather upholstery, nine Infinity speakers, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, a sunroof and 64-colour ambient lighting, but the HEV gains auto parking and app support.

    The app can lock/unlock the doors, close the windows and sunroof, tell you that your fuel is low and/or your 12V battery is low, show tyre temperatures and pressures, show your vehicle location and turn on/off the air-con and/or seat ventilation.

    The ICE car already has full ADAS, so of course this one has it too, including AEB and ACC, and there should also be six airbags. The HEV exclusively gets the Sand Beige body colour you see here (you can also have Crystal Black or Pearl White) and 17-inch black alloys with all-terrain tyres. The signature orange exterior colour and 18-inch two-tone alloys have now become ICE car-only items.

    No estimated pricing yet, but as the ICE car already costs RM250k, this guy won’t be cheap. But it can’t overtake the Tank 500 HEV’s RM329k price tag, so there’s your range. Excited? Take a closer look at the GWM Tank 300 HEV at the ongoing Penang Autoshow 2026 below, inside and out.

    GWM Tank 300 HEV at Penang Autoshow 2026

     
  • 2026 BMW iX1 L official Malaysian pricing out – 204 PS eDrive20L, 433 km WLTP range, CBU China, RM253k

    2026 BMW iX1 L official Malaysian pricing out – 204 PS eDrive20L, 433 km WLTP range, CBU China, RM253k

    The BMW iX1 L was “launched” back in January, but it took BMW Group Malaysia three months to obtain official pricing for its long-wheelbase electric SUV. The sole eDrive20L M Sport variant retails at RM252,800 on-the-road without insurance – over RM2,000 less than previously estimated, but RM2,000 more than the old tax-free standard-wheelbase eDrive20 model (as of this year, at least).

    As is usual for BMWs in Malaysia, this figure includes a two-year, unlimited-mileage warranty; opt for five years of coverage and six years of maintenance and you’re looking at a total bill of RM268,600; an eight-year/160,000 km warranty comes standard. The iX1 L is CBU fully imported from China and benefits from the lower tax structure for cars coming from the Middle Kingdom, whereas the regular iX1 was imported from Regensburg, Germany and would’ve incurred significant duties under the new tax regime.

    The specs are unchanged from before, with a single front motor making 204 PS (150 kW) and 250 Nm of torque. This gets the car from zero to 100 km/h in 8.6 seconds on its way to a top speed of 175 km/h – 5 km/h higher than the non-L eDrive20.

    2026 BMW iX1 L official Malaysian pricing out – 204 PS eDrive20L, 433 km WLTP range, CBU China, RM253k

    The 66.5 kWh (64.7 kWh nett) NMC battery is unchanged over other iX1s, but the extra length (and presumably, additional weight) has clearly exacted a penalty, with its 433 km of WLTP-rated range being shorter than the eDrive20’s 475 km and even the 438 km achieved by the discontinued dual-motor xDrive30.

    With DC fast charging capacity unchanged at a fairly measly 130 kW (BMW’s Neue Klasse revolution can’t come soon enough), the iX1 L continues to take 32 minutes to be topped up from 10 to 80%. As for AC charging, the car is still capped at 11 kW of power for a full charge in six hours and 45 minutes.

    The “L” in the iX1 L’s name obviously refers to the 110 mm wheelbase stretch over standard iX1, bringing it to 2,802 mm. The overall length has grown commensurately by 116 mm to a generous 4,616 mm, which BMW says brings with it 81 mm of additional legroom and 107 mm more knee room.

    2026 BMW iX1 L official Malaysian pricing out – 204 PS eDrive20L, 433 km WLTP range, CBU China, RM253k

    Just like the previous eDrive20, the L version comes with the M Sport package, consisting of sportier front and rear bumpers and side skirts, as well as 19-inch M twin-spoke Style 871M alloys. The kit also includes Shadowline gloss black exterior trim and roof rails, but the eDrive20 L goes one further with the “extended” version, adding a black kidney grille surround and darkened adaptive LED headlights.

    The paint options have also been changed, with Cape York Green, M Portimao Blue and Space Silver being traded for two new greys – M Brooklyn Grey and Skyscraper Grey. They join the existing Mineral White and Carbon Black on the now monochrome palette.

    Inside, the iX1 L benefits from softer seat foam and 15 mm longer rear seat bases, as well as the addition of perforation (still without seat ventilation) for the Veganza faux leather upholstery. Castanea red is the only colour scheme available, and you no longer get a part-Alcantara option.

    An M Sport three-spoke steering wheel, powered front sports seats with driver’s side memory and aluminium Hexacube trim are still fitted, but the headlining has been switched from black to Ivory White for an airier atmosphere. Speaking of the roof, there’s now a panoramic sunroof, which even the old xDrive30 did not get.

    Beyond that, the standard kit remains largely identical, with keyless entry, push-button start, dual-zone auto air con with rear vents, the BMW Live Cockpit Professional consisting of a 10.25-inch instrument display, a 10.7-inch infotainment touchscreen and a head-up display, Qi wireless charging, a 12-speaker, 205-watt Harman Kardon sound system and a hands-free powered tailgate. One change is to the suspension, with the old “adaptive” dampers (really just passive frequency-selective dampers) switched out for a “comfort” setup.

    Safety-wise, the iX1 L comes fitted with the full Driving Assistant Plus package, including autonomous emergency braking, adaptive cruise control with stop and go, lane centring assist, blind spot monitoring, rear cross traffic alert with auto brake, rear collision warning, traffic sign recognition, a door opening warning and adaptive high beam. The big difference here is that Level 2 semi-autonomous driving functionality is unlocked from the get-go, whereas the old eDrive20 required a subscription to use those features.


    GALLERY: BMW iX1 eDrive20L official photos

     
  • Proton eMas 5 gets new Jade Green colour – available on Prime and Premium with dark interior, same price

    Proton eMas 5 gets new Jade Green colour – available on Prime and Premium with dark interior, same price

    Proton eMas has been adding green to its colour options lately, and now is the turn of the eMas 5. The new hue is called Jade Green and the eMas 5 in this shade is making its debut at the inaugural Penang Autoshow 2026, which opens to the public tomorrow at the Penang Waterfront Convention Centre.

    But unlike the deep Emerald Green that was introduced for the eMas 7 PHEV, this is a lighter, cheery shade of the primary colour, which really suits a cute city car like the eMas 5, I think. It reminds us of the Pistachio Green on the Ora Good Cat, another cuddly-looking EV.

    Jade Green joins the eMas 5’s launch colours, which are Moonstone White, Graphite Silver, Slate Grey, Marble Cream and Quartz Rose. The latter two are exclusive to the top-spec Premium, which also gets a black roof and an Alabaster White interior option for the two exclusive exterior colours. Jade Green can be had on any eMas 5 variant, but only with the dark Slate Grey cabin theme.

    Proton eMas 5 gets new Jade Green colour – available on Prime and Premium with dark interior, same price

    No price premium for Jade Green, which means that the eMas 5’s RRP continues to be RM56,800 for the Prime and RM69,800 for the Premium, on-the-road without insurance.

    Both variants are rear-wheel drive, powered by a single motor that produces 79 PS (58 kW) and 130 Nm of torque on the Prime and 116 PS (85 kW) and 150 Nm on the Premium. The Prime uses a 30.12 kWh CATL lithium iron phosphate (LFP) unit for a range of 225 km on the WLTP cycle, while the Premium’s 40.16 kWh pack delivers 325 km.

    As for charging, the Prime accepts up to 53 kW of DC power, while the Premium does better at 71 kW; both can be topped up from 30% to 80% SoC in 20 minutes. The max AC charging rate is 6.6 kW. For more details and specs, check out our launch report, spec-by-spec comparo and dedicated gallery for the base Prime, which is a relatively rare sight.

    GALLERY: Proton eMas 5 in Jade Green

     
  • Pedestrianising parts of Johor Baru around RTS Link station proposed to reduce traffic congestion

    Pedestrianising parts of Johor Baru around RTS Link station proposed to reduce traffic congestion

    The pedestrianising of large parts of Johor Baru around the RTS Link station has been proposed in order to reduce traffic congestion ahead of the station’s opening next year, reported The Star.

    Former deputy international trade and industry minister, Ong Kian Ming said that at least 180 degrees around the Bukit Chagar RTS Link station should be set aside strictly for pedestrians.

    “This is because the Johor Baru city centre is already congested as it is and the RTS Link is expected to transport up to 10,000 passengers per hour in each direction. If you hope for them to take e-hailing without having traffic dispersal modes like the Automated Rapid Transit and a good bus transport system out of the RTS Link, it is going to be gridlocked from day one,” Ong said.

    Pedestrianising areas within a 500 metre radius of the station could help address dispersal challenges, while creating opportunities for commercial development and vibrant public spaces, he continued.

    “This would create opportunities for development of public spaces where people can hold events and make the Johor Baru city centre a place that is alive, not just where people come and disperse to other places,” he said.

     
  • Zeekr 009 facelift with 900V system is China-exclusive for now – Malaysia introduction under evaluation

    Zeekr 009 facelift with 900V system is China-exclusive for now – Malaysia introduction under evaluation

    The Zeekr 009 recently got another update in China, with the big change being the switch to a 900-volt electrical architecture. Originally, the electric MPV debuted with a 400-volt system before being upgraded to an 800-volt system in July 2024.

    While China’s 009 has received two rounds of updates, the MPV in Malaysia is still with a 400-volt system since its launch here in December 2024. Keep in mind that we’re not alone in this regard, as other right-hand drive markets such as Singapore, Hong Kong and Thailand also get the 009 with a 400-volt system.

    So, will the 009 with a 900-volt system come to Malaysia? Well, we asked Zeekr Malaysia during our time with them at this year’s Auto China (also known as Auto Beijing) and were told the latest version of the MPV remains exclusive to China for now.

    Zeekr 009 facelift with 900V system is China-exclusive for now – Malaysia introduction under evaluation

    “While our latest 900V architecture has been introduced in the China market, it is currently limited to China at this stage. For international markets, including Malaysia, we are already offering advanced 800V technology through models such as the Zeekr 7X,” the company told paultan.org.

    “With regards to the Zeekr 009, we are actively evaluating the introduction of the updated version for Malaysia. At this point, it is still under consideration, and we will share more updates once a decision has been finalised,” it added.

    Back in February this year, the company confirmed three new models coming our way in 2026, one of them appearing to be in shape of the 009 and described as “luxury redefined.” At the time, we presumed the model to be the 009 Grand, which is a four-seater version of the MPV that will look to take on the Lexus LM – there’s also a fancier Collector’s Edition. We currently get the 009 in three variants, including the seven-seat Executive and Luxury as well as the six-seat Ultra Luxury.

    GALLERY: 2026 Zeekr 009 facelift at Auto China

     
  • Malaysian fuel prices April 30-May 6, 2026 – RON95 up 10 sen, RM3.97; RON97 to RM4.90; diesel unchanged

    Malaysian fuel prices April 30-May 6, 2026 – RON95 up 10 sen, RM3.97; RON97 to RM4.90; diesel unchanged

    Today is Wednesday, which makes it time for the weekly fuel price update from the ministry of finance for the coming week of April 30 to May 6, 2026.

    Retail prices of diesel of the B10 and B20 grades are unchanged from the RM5.12 per litre price of last week, therefore, the Euro 5 B7 blend of diesel, which is 20 sen more per litre, is also unchanged at RM5.32 per litre for the coming week.

    The retail price of diesel fuels in Sabah, Sarawak and Labuan stays unchanged at RM2.15 per litre. The Budi Madani diesel fuel cash assistance currently stands at RM400, and the additional RM100 has been disbursed on April 21. This is the second increase in the Budi Diesel quota, following a prior increase from RM200 to RM300 in March.

    For petrol, subsidised RON 95 under the Budi Madani RON 95 (Budi95) scheme remains at RM1.99 per litre; Malaysians with a valid driving licence are eligible for the fuel at a monthly quota that is temporarily adjusted to 200 litres per month. The price of unsubsidised RON 95 petrol climbs by 10 sen to RM3.97 per litre, and RON 97 by five sen to RM4.90 per litre, from their respective prices of last week.

    These prices take effect from midnight tonight until Wednesday, May 6, 2026. This is the 19th edition of the weekly fuel pricing format for 2026, and the 382nd in total since the format was introduced at the start of 2019.

     
  • Jaga your car with peace of mind at Jacar – window tint, coating package promos and more, until May 1

    <em>Jaga</em> your car with peace of mind at Jacar – window tint, coating package promos and more, until May 1

    The car care experience has typically been fraught with a number of challenges, namely with inconsistent pricing, uncertainties in quality and a lack of transparency. These are the areas where the customer experience in car care has potentially left much to be desired, when ultimately the aim is to look after – jaga – one’s car. Enter Jacar.

    With the aim of delivering peace of mind in terms of the upkeep of one’s automobile, Jacar brings a host of reputable car care brands directly to vehicle owners via a mobile app, for Android and iOS devices, without having to face surprise price mark-ups or other hidden sales tricks.

    Through the mobile app, Jacar customers can book a car care service, select products from verified, reputable global brands, and watch their car being worked on and cared for through a live CCTV feed. Once the work is completed, customers will receive a full, digital record of the services carried out on their vehicle, including the related warranty.

    <em>Jaga</em> your car with peace of mind at Jacar – window tint, coating package promos and more, until May 1

    The Jacar platform was born from a desire to meet the needs of customers who may not necessarily have had all their car care needs met. “Car owners deserve full visibility, not just a receipt and a hope. We built Jacar to give that that back to them,” said Jacar CEO Kelly Teoh.

    With this official launch, the Jacar car care network is currently comprised of outlets in Bandar Utama and in Bandar Sunway, and the opening of new locations are planned for the third quarter of this year. In the longer term, Jacar aims to have a network of 100 connected outlets nationwide in Malaysia.

    Partnering with four globally recognised brands, Jacar has brought on board Llumar, a USA-based brand known for window tint and paint protection film; KeePer, from Japan, known for its precision ceramic coating systems; GS27 from France, a specialist in advanced car detailing; and Pecca Leather, a leading Malaysian name in automotive upholstery.

    No matter which brand of product the customer has selected for their car care service, each service is carried out by technicians who are certified by the brand itself. For keeping of records, each job is recorded digitally and each one comes with a traceable warranty.

    <em>Jaga</em> your car with peace of mind at Jacar – window tint, coating package promos and more, until May 1

    To celebrate its official launch, Jacar is offering a limited-time membership promotion for RM388, valid until May 1, 2026. For a limited time, this RM388 outlay brings you, the customer over RM1,000 worth of car care services.

    You may select two from an available three options, comprised of the KeePer Mineral-Off Wash worth RM150, a water-repellent glass coating worth RM150, or interior sterilisation worth RM140. In addition, you’ll also receive a 20% member’s discount on selected services, 5% cashback on completed services.

    <em>Jaga</em> your car with peace of mind at Jacar – window tint, coating package promos and more, until May 1

    Also on promotion for the limited duration until May 1 is the KeePer range of exterior coating products. Starting with the KeePer Eco Fresh coating normally priced at RM1,500, this is offered at a promo price of RM888, covered by a one-year protection scheme and comes with complimentary Mineral-Off wash, or interior sterilisation.

    This is joined by the KeePer Eco Plus Diamond coating, normally priced at RM2,500 but which is offered at a promo price of RM1,688, covered by a three-year protection scheme and comes with complimentary door cup paint protection film.

    The KeePer Eco Plus Diamond coating can also be purchased with a five-year protection scheme, normally priced at RM3,300 but which is now on offer at a promo price of RM2,088, and this too comes with complimentary door cup paint protection film.

    Click to enlarge

    Promotions are offered for Pecca Leather products, with the 100% Nappa leather upholstery range for five-seater vehicles normally priced at RM6,900, now at a promo price of RM1,999. For seven-seater vehicles, the 100% Nappa leather package that is normally priced at RM8,700 is now at a promo price of RM3,299. These come with a complimentary Mineral-Off wash, or interior sterilisation.

    For a more attainable trim package, the five-seater TurboSeat package that is normally priced at RM699 is now at a promo price of RM399, while a five-seater set of 3D floor mats, normally priced at RM550, is now at a promo price of RM299.

    Two-wheeler motorists, you’re included too. The Signature motorcycle wash package that is normally priced at RM50 is on offer at RM25, while stepping up to the Premium motorcycle wash package, normally priced at RM300, is currently on offer at RM150. One aspect of the “interior” of a motorcycle, so to speak, would be the helmet; the helmet care package, normally priced at RM170, is now of offer at RM85.

    <em>Jaga</em> your car with peace of mind at Jacar – window tint, coating package promos and more, until May 1

    A trio of 2-in-1 window tint and PPF packages by Llumar and KeePer are offered, too. The Llumar Prestige film and PPF Basic package is at a promo price of RM2,599 (N.P. RM5,600), while the Llumar Prestige film and KeePer Eco Plus Diamond three-year coating package is on promo at RM3,299 (N.P. RM5,400).

    The Llumar PPF Basic and one-year KeePer Eco Fresh coating is on offer at RM1,800 (N.P. RM3,400), while the 3-in-1 package comprised of the Llumar Prestige film, Llumar PPF Basic and Keeper Eco Fresh one-year coating package is offered at RM3,399 (N.P. RM7,200). These packages come with complimentary anti-reflective film.

    Llumar products on offer include the Diamond 4 at RM999 (N.P. RM3,500), and the Pinnacle on offer at RM1,599 (N.P. RM4,500). Both come with a complimentary Mineral-Off wash, or interior sterilisation.

    <em>Jaga</em> your car with peace of mind at Jacar – window tint, coating package promos and more, until May 1

    For Llumar paint protection film products, a selection of packages are available. the Entry PPF (headlamps and door cups) is offered at RM399 (N.P. RM1,200), the Basic PPF (headlamps, door handle inserts, doors edges, side mirrors) is offered at RM999 (N.P. RM2,200), the front-of-car PPF (headlamps, door handle inserts, door edges, side mirrors, front bumper, bonnet, front fenders) is offered at RM3,200 (N.P. RM11,000). A full-car PPF treatment is offered at RM6,900 (N.P. RM21,000).

    Be quick – the membership promotion runs until May 1, 2026, so be sure to take advantage of the augmented value on offer during this limited time. Readers of paultan.org get an additional, special deal – download and get registered on the Jacar mobile app, key in the PAULTAN8 code, and you’ll receive a 15% discount voucher.

    Follow Jacar on Facebook and Instagram, and head to the official Jacar website to find out more.

     
  • Geely Galaxy Starship 7 EV in Beijing – EV version of PHEV version of EV, positioned above Galaxy E5/EX5

    Geely Galaxy Starship 7 EV in Beijing – EV version of PHEV version of EV, positioned above Galaxy E5/EX5

    Wait, what’s this – an EV version of a PHEV version of an EV? Well… somewhat. The Geely Galaxy Starship 7 EV we saw at Auto China 2026 in Beijing had us truly scratching our heads, but it now transpires, according to Car News China, that this is positioned above the Galaxy E5/EX5 EV, which we of course know as the Proton eMas 7 EV.

    If you’re confused, the Galaxy Starship 7 was born a PHEV (eventually becoming our Proton eMas 7 PHEV); now this is the EV version. Like the latest Geely Galaxy E5/EX5 EV, this guy’s got either 60.2 kWh (525 km CLTC) or 68.39 kWh (605 km CLTC) batteries and a front-mounted 218 PS electric motor, although curiously CNC estimates torque to be 300 Nm instead of the 320 Nm we’re familiar with.

    Now, the PHEV (regardless of whether you call it the Galaxy Starship 7, Starray EM-i or Proton eMas 7 PHEV) was always slightly larger than the EV (Galaxy E5/EX5/Proton eMas 7 EV), and this, according to CNC, is the basis for this new car being positioned above the Galaxy E5/EX5 EV. In case you’re wondering, the disparities are 125 mm in length, 39 mm in width, 15 mm in height and 5 mm in wheelbase.

    Of course, it also looks different from the other car, so we suppose you’d buy this if you prefer the split headlamps, full-width front LED bar, this front bumper design, regular door handles and your rear number plate to be on your tailgate rather than on the bumper… and you want a full EV. Makes sense?

     
  • High performance Carro Certified cars for weekend fun

    High performance Carro Certified cars for weekend fun

    Most of us want to live out our weekdays in a sensible, practical machine but find ourselves yearning for something with a little more soul the moment Saturday rolls around. Yes, you know you’re not alone.

    What if we told you that there are cars that tick a lot of the checkboxes – four doors, comfort when driven slow, but completely open up when you gun the throttle? The beauty of the Malaysian pre-owned market right now is that these type of machines — the kind that make you invent reasons to take the long way home — are more accessible than ever.

    Here are three models we sighted on the Carro Certified market.

    Volkswagen Golf GTI Mk8

    From RM 1,926 a month
    RM 175,800

    For the driver who still wants something compact enough for KL traffic but genuinely entertaining when the road opens up, this 2024 Golf GTI is the obvious hot hatch pick. The Mk8 GTI’s familiar 2.0 litre turbocharged four-cylinder makes 245 PS and 370 Nm, sent to the front wheels via a seven-speed wet-clutch DSG, with XDS electronic differential lock and Dynamic Chassis Control helping it stay tidy on your favourite weekend route, whether that’s a dawn run up Genting, Kuala Klawang or just a spirited B-road detour after brunch.

    When new, this updated GTI was priced from RM252,990 on-the-road without insurance, so a pre-owned Carro Certified unit gives you the GTI experience with a softer entry point into one of Malaysia’s most complete everyday performance cars. Best part is as a 2024 car it still has plenty of the manufacturer’s warranty left to sort out any issues.

    Volkswagen Arteon R-Line 4MOTION

    Think of the Arteon as the grown-up weekend car: sleek fastback looks, proper long-distance comfort and enough performance to make an early-morning highway run feel special. Now this particular unit isn’t the front wheel drive version of the Arteon. Instead it’s the more powerful R-Line 4MOTION.

    Under the bonnet is Volkswagen’s EA888 2.0 litre turbocharged engine with 280 PS and 350 Nm, paired with a seven-speed wet-clutch DSG and 4MOTION all-wheel drive, making it a more secure and refined companion than the usual front-driven sedan when the weather turns or the road gets interesting.

    Ford Ranger Raptor 3.0 V6 petrol

    From RM 2,069 a month
    RM 188,800
    From RM 2,233 a month
    RM 203,800

    Not all fun weekend cars need to be low-slung, and the Ford Ranger Raptor proves the point with massive road presence, Baja-inspired hardware and a soundtrack no diesel pick-up can match. Yes, this pick-up truck uses petrol, so you can fuel it with Budi95. Carro Certified’s inventory has not just one but two units at time of publishing.

    The 3.0 litre twin-turbo EcoBoost V6 was launched with 392 hp and 583 Nm, driving through a 10-speed automatic, and the real party trick is the Ford Performance chassis: FOX 2.5-inch Live Valve internal-bypass dampers, long-travel suspension, Watt’s linkage rear end, BFGoodrich all-terrain tyres, 2WD/4A/4H/4L modes and seven drive modes including Baja.

    If you buy one, take it for a spin and drop by Sepang Bay 13 for some off-road fun.

    Benefits of buying Carro Certified pre-owned

    Remember, Carro pricing is all-in and includes no hidden fees! No extra fees if you are a loan buyer, no extra processing fees, no extra inspection fees. Everything is in the listed price, so beware of other car classifieds listings that advertise a cheaper price then hit you with all kinds of surcharges.

    – 160 point inspection
    – 5 day money back guarantee
    – 12 month warranty for engine and gearbox
    – no mileage tampering
    – no major accidents, fire and flood damage

     
  • Michelin Primacy 5 energy and Pilot Sport 5 energy tyres now available in Malaysia – RRP from RM614

    Michelin Primacy 5 energy and Pilot Sport 5 energy tyres now available in Malaysia – RRP from RM614

    The Michelin Primacy 5 energy and Michelin Pilot Sport 5 energy tyres are now available in Malaysia. The former is touted as a triple-A tyre with the longest life in its segment, while the PS5 energy is a double-A tyre inspired by motorsport heritage and engineered for a new era of energy-efficient performance.

    “These new tyre ranges deliver energy efficiency across all applications while maintaining sustainable performance from the first to the last mile, reinforcing Michelin’s commitment to safer, more efficient, and more sustainable mobility,” said Florentin Odenwald, MD of Michelin Malaysia, Singapore and Brunei.

    “The Malaysian automotive landscape is changing rapidly, with EV adoption accelerating, SUVs dominating the roads, and drivers expecting more from every component of their vehicle. The tyre ranges from Michelin are our direct response to that shift. With the Michelin Primacy 5 energy and Michelin Pilot Sport 5 energy, we are ensuring that as the market evolves, Malaysian drivers are not left behind,” he added.

    The tyremaker says that the Primacy 5 energy achieves the highest European A-label rating for external noise, wet grip and rolling resistance. It also delivers with ‘exceptional longevity that translates into more mileage for both fuel and electric vehicles’.

    The quietness and comfortable ride comes from Michelin’s Silent Rib Gen-3 and Piano Acoustic Tuning tech, which also promises to minimise noise on worn tyres. MaxTouch maximises contact with the road and evenly distributes the forces of acceleration, braking and cornering to extend tread life, without compromising safety.

    Meanwhile, Slim Belt features thinner top belts with less raw materials (at equivalent strength) that improves fuel consumption or battery range for EVs. This is combined with the high-performance Energy Passive 2.0 compound that for tyre longevity. Available in 19 sizes for 18- to 21-inch wheels, the Michelin Primacy 5 energy is priced from RM614 to RM1,624.

    Michelin Primacy 5 energy and Pilot Sport 5 energy tyres now available in Malaysia – RRP from RM614

    The Michelin Pilot Sport 5 energy is the company’s first sport tyre with double European A-label rating for wet grip and rolling resistance. It claims to deliver dynamic handling and enhanced driving pleasure while reducing energy consumption, ‘redefining what responsible performance means for modern vehicles’.

    Michelin Dynamic Response ensures optimum transmission of steering control onto the road, while Piano Acoustic minimises noise and MaxTouch that maximises contact with the road evenly. This model also has Slim Belt. Michelin Bi-Compound features Grip Adaptive compound in the centre for superior grip, and Energy Passive compound on tread shoulders to reduce energy consumption.

    Available on both tyres is the 360-degree application of the Michelin Premium Touch technology, covering the entire sidewall circumference to create an ‘exceptionally luxurious’ visual effect. Thanks to the French company’s patented tech, a velvet-effect microtexture reveals a refined matte black finish, ‘perfectly harmonising with the elegance of the vehicles on which the tyres are fitted’.

    The Michelin Pilot Sport 5 energy is available in 17 sizes for 18- to 21-inch wheels, with retail prices ranging from RM930 to RM2,006.

    GALLERY: Michelin Primacy 5 energy

    GALLERY: Michelin Pilot Sport 5 energy

     
  • Man charged for possessing 3,000 litres of diesel in KL

    Man charged for possessing 3,000 litres of diesel in KL

    An unemployed man was charged in the Kuala Lumpur Sessions Court for possessing 3,000 litres of diesel without a valid licence. M Saravanan, age 24, was charged with possessing controlled goods in the form of 3,000 litres of diesel under suspicious circumstances.

    The incident occurred in a lorry by the roadside near a school in Ayer Jerneh Road in Setapak, KL. Saravanan was charged under Regulation 3(1) under the Control of Supplies Regulation 1974, for dealing in controlled goods wholesale, or retail without a licence under Section 21 of the Control of Supplies 1961, both punishable under Section 22(1) of the same Act, reports Bernama.

    Man charged for possessing 3,000 litres of diesel in KL

    If convicted, Saravanan faces a fine of RM1 million, or three year in prison, or both. For second and subsequent offences, the penalty is a maximum fine of RM3 million, or five years in prison, or both.

    Prosecuting officer for the Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry (KPDN), M Selvaraju, proposed a bail of RM30,000 in one surety while Saravanan, who is unrepresented, asked for a reduced bail on the grounds that he is unemployed. Judge Mazuliana Abdul Rashid imposed bail of RM30,000 in one surety and set case mention for June 2.

     
  • Continental CrossContact A/T2 tyre now in Malaysia

    Continental CrossContact A/T2 tyre now in Malaysia

    Continental Tyres has launched the CrossContact A/T2 tyre in Malaysia. The company says that its latest all-terrain tyre for SUVs and 4x4s is engineered with ‘immense traction and endurance’ to combat rough, wild landscapes, without compromising on-road comfort and performance.

    “Every tyre we build starts with a deep understanding of our customers’ needs. As a key APAC market, Malaysia’s drivers, road conditions and weather play a vital role in the development process. By focusing on customer-centric solutions, the all‑new CrossContact A/T2 is built on these real‑world insights for drivers who depend on their utility and 4×4 vehicles. It’s designed to deliver confidence where it matters most,” said Andrea Somorova, MD of Malaysia and head of ASEAN.

    The CrossContact A/T2 has enhanced traction for ‘high-stress manoeuvres’ thanks to a combination of increased tread depth, high void volume and self-cleaning shoulders. These provide greater handling precision, better vehicle stability and stronger grip on loose, uneven or slippery terrain, Continental says.

    Continental CrossContact A/T2 tyre now in Malaysia

    Click to enlarge

    An AT tyre needs to be tough, and in this area, rigid tread patterns with reinforced sidewall thickness help withstand high-impact surfaces while reducing the risk of punctures, abrasion tears and rough trail damage. As for grip, Continental’s proprietary BlackPaw Compound is claimed to provide grip with adaptive capabilities to complement weather and road conditions in all forms.

    The CrossContact A/T2 is now available at Continental-branded outlets as well as official Continental online stores on Shopee, Lazada, TikTok and TnG eWallet. The company says that it offers one of the widest size ranges in Malaysia with 42 sizes, covering 15- to 22-inch wheels for SUVs, 4X4 and light trucks. The CrossContact A/T2 offer up to load range E capability, which means it’s worksite ready.

     
  • Ministers setting an EV example? Public chargers nationwide essential for adoption – MITI’s Johari

    Ministers setting an EV example? Public chargers nationwide essential for adoption – MITI’s Johari

    The price of oil is high, so should the government and cabinet ministers set an example in cost-­cutting and use electric vehicles as their official cars? This question was posed to Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Datuk Seri Johari Abdul Ghani at the Concorde Club dialogue session at Wisma Bernama yesterday.

    The MITI minister said that he and his colleagues can do so, but such a move must be supported by widespread public charging infrastructure nationwide, citing the example of petrol stations.

    “We need the public infrastructure. Where are you getting the public chargers? They must be available throughout the country, just like petrol stations. Only then will people feel comfortable using EVs,” he said, reported by The Star.

    Ministers setting an EV example? Public chargers nationwide essential for adoption – MITI’s Johari

    “But if you do not provide the infrastructure, it will fail, even if you give a low price. It may be construed that everything is already taken care of by the government, and when they experience some problems, they will come back to the government and ask why the government allowed this. My stand on this issue actually is – let’s build the infrastructure together,” he added.

    Johari lamented that charging infrastructure isn’t widespread in rural areas. “From 2022, 2023, 2024 and 2025, those who brought in CBU EV cars enjoyed zero import duty, zero excise duty, and zero sales tax. That is how the government created a window for four years.

    “Unfortunately, within those four years, we have not seen widely available infrastructure deve­lopment, especially in rural areas, kampung areas and so on. Within this period, we have forgone about RM3.3 billion in tax revenue,” he said, adding that Malaysia is now focusing on strengthening its EV ecosystem, including encouraging CKD local assembly operations.

     
  • Chery Himla pick-up earmarked for Malaysia, due here in Q2/Q3 2027 – will it be the KP11 or newer KP31?

    Chery Himla pick-up earmarked for Malaysia, due here in Q2/Q3 2027 – will it be the KP11 or newer KP31?

    Let’s get the simple part out of the way first, and that is with the news that Chery has plans to introduce its Himla pick-up in Malaysia, with a Q2 or Q3 2027 introduction having been indicated for it. Of course, given that any new pick-up with a fresh nameplate coming our way has to be locally-assembled, it will, not surprisingly, be a CKD offering.

    Now comes the tougher bit, which is establishing the brand name it will wear here, as well as the form it will come in. For the first, things were straightforward up to a few months ago. When it was launched at Auto Shanghai last year, the sub-brand appeared as Himla, a moniker said to be inspired by the Himalayas, also doubling as an acronym for ‘high performance’, ‘innovation’, ‘multifunction’, ‘longevity’ and ‘all-terrain’.

    That name is meant for global markets, because in China the brand is called Rely. Which is fine, because you’d imagine that the vehicle, codenamed KP11, would be known as the Himla everywhere else, including Malaysia, but this might not be the case, depending on how things pan out elsewhere. Let’s explain why.

    It has all to do with the appearance of a new Chery concept truck that was revealed in Sydney in February. Unlike the Himla KP11, this one, called the KP31, wears not just a different face (hello, Ford Bronco) but is also that more buff on the whole. Its 5,610 mm length also makes it longer than the regulation KP11 (5,330 mm), but that is likely the result of it incorporating a long bed by default. A reskin then? Maybe.

    The production version of the model – which will be a global offering – is set to land in Australia sometime in the fourth quarter of this year, and because it remains unnamed, it could wear a completely different name. It will definitely be known by another when the Omoda | Jaecoo version eventually takes flight.

    Of course, the new one could well end up being a Himla from a Chery perspective, as indicated by a trio of KP31s shown during one of the field activities held as part of the automaker’s 2026 International Business Summit in Wuhu, China, which concluded today.

    The truck with Chery badging and a China-specific P3X model designation seen in the photos here is clearly the concept unveiled in Australia. The part that provides the stump is the Himla plate identifiers pasted on the two other kitted up versions on display, which despite the dress up exterior work are unmistakably KP31s.

    Chery Himla pick-up earmarked for Malaysia, due here in Q2/Q3 2027 – will it be the KP11 or newer KP31?

    Chery Himla KP11 pick-up

    Still following? There’s a reason for attempting to address the name, because it is almost certain that the KP31 will be the version of the pick-up coming our way, not the Himla KP11, as indicated by the powertrain the company has planned for our market, which is a petrol PHEV. The KP31 was announced with a diesel plug-in hybrid system, which is a world’s first, but oil burners, no matter how efficient they are with the assistance of electrification, are presently not the flavour of the moment, or foreseeable future.

    A petrol PHEV is, but it was mentioned that it’s about a year away from appearing, which fits nicely with the timeframe for the truck’s planned arrival in Malaysia. As for why it also isn’t the Himla KP11, the only fossil fuel engines available for it are a 2.3 litre turbodiesel and a 2.4 litre petrol.

    As it is expected to provide decent volume, the pick-up should be built at Chery’s new Smart Auto Industrial Park assembly plant, as word is that the company’s existing Shah Alam facility will be retained to assemble lower volume products, while higher volume models will be produced in Lembah Beringin. Still too early to tell, and so expect more on the pick-up when it gets closer to market reality.

    GALLERY: Chery Himla KP31 and Himla KP11 pick-ups in Wuhu, China

    GALLERY: Chery KP31 concept pick-up

     
  • Lepas L4 EV, L6 EV, L6 PHEV revealed in Beijing – would you like to see these NEVs in Malaysia?

    Lepas L4 EV, L6 EV, L6 PHEV revealed in Beijing – would you like to see these NEVs in Malaysia?

    Lepas L4 EV

    Completing the list of Auto China debuts for the Chery International group is Lepas, which showcased the L4 EV, L6 EV and L6 PHEV in Beijing this week. These new energy vehicle (NEV) variants expand the fledgling lineup from the existing petrol-powered L4, L6 and L8, providing customers with a range of powertrain options built on the parent company’s dedicated LEX “intelligent” new energy platform.

    We’ve actually seen the L4 and L6 EVs before – the former at the Indonesia International Motor Show (IIMS) earlier this year, the latter at the recent Bangkok International Motor Show (BIMS). Both feature grille-less EV-specific front ends with jutting noses, aggressive air intakes and slim headlights with L-shaped daytime running lights, ditching the petrol cars‘ “leopard eye” graphics.

    Lepas has not released much in the way of details, but it has confirmed that the L4 EV will have a range of 500 km (likely on the NEDC cycle, so expect around 420 km of WLTP range). The rest of the powertrain should be shared with the Jaecoo J5 EV, including a single front motor making 211 PS (155 kW) and 288 Nm of torque, a 61.1 kWh LFP battery and up to 80 kW of DC fast charging support.

    Lepas L4 EV, L6 EV, L6 PHEV revealed in Beijing – would you like to see these NEVs in Malaysia?

    Lepas L6 EV

    As for the L6 EV, initial specs reported by Thai portal Autoinfo include outputs of 242 PS (178 kW) and 275 Nm, a zero to 100 km/h time of 7.9 seconds and a 67.08 kWh LFP battery delivering an NEDC range of 510 km (circa 430 km WLTP). Also included is up to 120 kW of DC fast charging – topping up the battery from 30 to 80% in 20 minutes – as well as up to 7 kW of AC charging.

    Making its world premiere in Beijing is the L6 PHEV, utilising the newly-named Lepas Super Hybrid (LSH) system. This is almost certainly identical to the Super Hybrid System (SHS) used in the Jaecoo J7 PHEV and the Chery Super Hybrid (CSH) in the Chery Tiggo 7 and Tiggo 8 PHEV.

    Such a combination includes 1.5 litre turbo four-cylinder, an electric motor and a single-speed dedicated hybrid transmission (DHT), producing a combined output of 275 PS and 365 Nm of torque. Lepas claims a pure EV range of 107 km and a total range of 1,200 km in the larger L8.

    Lepas L4 EV, L6 EV, L6 PHEV revealed in Beijing – would you like to see these NEVs in Malaysia?

    Lepas L6 PHEV

    Aside from the dual ports for fuel and charging, the L6 PHEV is practically indistinguishable from the petrol version, with a large rectangular grille and split headlights with the aforementioned leopard-inspired DRLs. The car you see here – a prototype that was driven from Beijing to Wuhu for the Chery International Business Summit – wears handsome 19-inch turbine-style alloy wheels.

    Inside, the L6 PHEV continues to feature a minimalist interior with the J7’s three-spoke steering wheel and a waterfall centre console housing a large portrait infotainment touchscreen. You also get “floating” Sony speakers on the doors that integrate the ambient lighting.

    Lepas Malaysia has not confirmed if the NEV models will be offered on our shores, only saying that they are being considered for our market. If they do, expect them to arrive sometime after the ICE models are launched – those are slated to debut in the first half of the year, possibly at the Kuala Lumpur International Mobility Show (KLIMS) in June.

    GALLERY: Lepas L4 EV


    GALLERY: Lepas L6 EV
    GALLERY: Lepas L6 PHEV
    GALLERY: Lepas L4 EV official photos
    GALLERY: Lepas L6 EV official photos
    GALLERY: Lepas L6 PHEV official photos

     
 

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Last Updated Apr 30, 2026

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