Latest Featured Stories

• 

  2026 Honda CR-V – Google, BLIS, RCTA

• 

  Leapmotor C10 Plus – 510 km WLTP, fr RM139k

• 

  Proton S70 MC1 launched -1.5T i-GT, RM69k-RM90k

• 

  Mitsubishi Xforce: 1.5L NA, CKD; RM110k-RM120k est

• 

  Dongfeng 007 in Malaysia – 650 km CLTC, fr RM161k

• 

  Proton eMas 7 PHEV – 996 km, RM106k-RM126k

Latest Stories

• Malaysian fuel prices March 5 to 11, 2026, prices up – RON95 to RM2.67; RON97 to RM3.25; diesel to RM3.12

  In Local News, Malaysian Fuel Prices / by Mick Chan / 4 March 2026 6:40 pm

  

  It is Wednesday, which means that it is once again, time for the weekly fuel price update by the ministry of finance for the coming week of March 5 to 11, 2026.

  Prices are up for the coming week across the main fuel types. The retail price of diesel fuel in Peninsular Malaysia takes an eight sen hike to RM3.12 per litre, from the RM3.04 per litre price of last week. Therefore, the Euro 5 B7 blend of diesel, which is 20 sen more per litre, is at RM3.32 per litre for the coming week. The retail price of diesel fuels in Sabah, Sarawak and Labuan stays unchanged at RM2.15 per litre.

  For petrol, the subsidised RON 95 fuel 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 of 300 litres.

  The price of unsubsidised RON95 petrol climbs eight sen to RM2.67 per litre, from the RM2.59 per litre price of last week, while RON 97 petrol takes the biggest climb of the group this week, up 10 sen to RM3.25 per litre, from RM3.15 per litre of last week.

  These prices take effect from midnight tonight until Wednesday, March 11, 2026, when the next set of fuel price updates are announced. This is the 11th edition of the weekly fuel pricing format for 2026, and the 374th in total since the format was introduced at the start of 2019.

  0 comments | Leave a comment?

   

• Win real gold at the Sime Motors Raya Gold Rush – deals at Sime Motors City Ara Damansara, March 6 to 8

  ADVERTORIAL / by Harvinder Sidhu / 4 March 2026 6:38 pm

  

  All that glitters is more than just gold, though this weekend the Sime Motors Raya Gold Rush is where you’ll stand a chance to win real helpings of the precious metal when you buy a car or motorcycle from Sime Motors City Ara Damansara, from March 6 to 8, 2026.

  With the extensive portfolio of brands under Sime Motors, there is certainly plenty of scope to have one’s bases covered. If you aspire to take on your journey with a greater sense of adventure, you could even travel on fewer than four wheels.

  Famed for its attention to driving detail, a product of BMW is often the choice of the keen driver, and you can take ownership of one through financing with interest rates as low as 0.81% (for financing tenure of up to nine years). Book a BMW, and you’ll score yourself a complimentary BMW Iconic Glow grille upgrade for selected models.

  The ever-youthful MINI brand will be offering special editions of the Countryman, for you to celebrate Hari Raya Aidilfitri in style this season. Surprises are in store – stay tuned to find out more this week! For all your BMW and MINI vehicle purchase needs, Sime Motors has Auto Bavaria and Performance Motors Malaysia in its network.

  If you prefer to be even more closely acquainted with your surroundings and you often fantasise about life behind handlebars, dream no more. BMW Motorrad is rich in heritage and innovation, and whether it is out-and-out sportiness, rugged overland excursions or sumptuous, premium touring that turns your wheels, there’s something to suit your desired adventure.

  For pick-up truck enthusiasts, Ford has offers on the Ranger Wildtrak 2.0L Bi-Turbo and Ranger XLT Plus this weekend, with the special Gold Rush offers you, the buyer either a five-year Ford Blue Oval Service plan, or rebates of up to RM13,000.

  There’s more. Buy a Ford during this period and you’ll get an Ogawa massage chair, free with your purchase. That’s not all – every Ford purchase at this time will enter the buyer the Ramadan lucky draw, for a chance to win exclusive prizes. If you’re shopping for premium truck that’s powerful and loaded with value, now’s the time.

  Electric vehicle powerhouse BYD is taking part in the Sime Motors Raya Golf Rush, too, with deals on Atto 3 and Seal 6. Buy a BYD from Sime Motors, and you’ll get savings of up to RM9,000, duit Raya of up to RM2,000, a free wallbox charger worth up to RM3,288, and much more. There’s also a special government servant programme for even more perks.

  Few carmakers are as known for safety as Volvo. Bringing together a compelling blend of style, safety and Scandinavian luxury from the brand are the EX30, which is now available with rebates from RM23,888, and the XC60, which comes with overtrade support of up to RM 54,800.

  From the Range Rover brand within the JLR group comes approved pre-owned vehicles, including the Range Rover Evoque priced from RM299,000, and the Range Rover Velar priced from RM488,000. Both represent fine entry points to the Range Rover brand of luxury.

  Also present from JLR are pre-event advantage cars, examples which are lightly driven with exceptionally low mileage. These represent a great opportunity to offer more exclusivity from cars which feel brand new. Contact the brand to find out more.

  Great deals beckon at Hyundai within the Sime Motors umbrella. The Tucson is available from RM125,888 with instant savings; make a booking and you’ll receive a Hari Raya goodie bag. Test-drive a Hyundai and make your booking within seven days and you’ll get RM900 duit Raya upon registration, and enjoy 0% financing for loans up to seven years.

  Looking beyond brand-new? Sime Motors has you covered at the Raya Gold Rush, with great variety at Auto Selection. This is your chance to take advantage of the demonstrator unit clearance sale, where you’ll get to enjoy up to RM5,000 on extra overtrade. Among the units available are the 2025 BMW 218, 2024 BYD Seal, 2025 MINI Countryman S, 2025 Ford Ranger Wildtrak, 2025 Hyundai Staria, 2025 Volvo XC60, and more. Be quick!

  Truly, a rich selection of deals on automobiles from Sime Motors is on offer at the Raya Gold Rush, happening this March 6 to 8. Find out more, here.

  *Terms and conditions apply.

   

• Proton sales drop 31% in Feb 2026 to 13,566 units due to festive season – Saga 6k units, S70 nearly 2k units

  In Cars, Local News, Proton / by Jonathan Lee / 4 March 2026 5:29 pm

  

  After a high of 19,833 vehicles sold in January – its best performance in 15 years – Proton’s sales took a sharp dip of 31% to 13,566 units as the many festive holidays, including Thaipusam and Chinese New Year, suppressed deliveries, the national carmaker said.

  The decline actually outpaced the total industry volume, which is only expected to fall by 17.6% to 52,996 units. As a result, the company’s estimated market share slid from 30.6% to 25.6% last month, although the year-to-date figure held strong at 28.5%. Still, February’s sales were 20.8% up compared to the same period last year (11,232 units), so it’s not all doom and gloom.

  A lot of this decrease can be attributed to the Saga. Having hit its best ever month of 10,285 units in January, its sales went back down to its usual level of 6,047 units. Total YTD sales are therefore at 16,332 units, which is still a 69.8% increase over last year – allowing Proton to continue claiming the car as Malaysia’s best-selling model.

  

  Meanwhile, the company’s other sedan, the S70, has seen a welcome uptick in form. Sales hit 1,940 units last month (up from 1,604 units in January), making it the company’s second best-selling model. Year-to-date sales have therefore risen to 3,544 units, up 51.5% over 2025.

  Its performance will no doubt be bolstered further – in more ways than one – by the new 2026 MC version, launched in the middle of February with a new 181 PS 1.5 litre i-GT turbo four-cylinder. In fact, bookings for the new car have already reached 5,000 units.

  Hot on the S70’s heels was the X50 with 1,842 units sold, leading to YTD sales of 4,271 units, 31.1% ahead of the previous year. As we reported yesterday, sales of the eMas 5 EV have crossed the 5,000 mark, meaning that Proton’s overall second best-selling model of the year is still electric.

  

  “[The year] has started brightly for Proton with strong customer interest for our new range of models that offer a compelling mix of design, the latest technologies, efficiency and value. At the same time, our efforts to improving the customer experience in the showroom and service centres is starting to pay dividends, further reinforcing our brand values.

  “In the short-term, our most immediate challenge is to manage customer waiting times by increasing production and delivery numbers every month while maintaining product quality levels. With the investments made in our Tanjong Malim plant in recent years, we can meet the challenge, which should be proven by the sales numbers in the next few months,” said Proton Edar CEO Abdul Rashid Musa.

  0 comments | Leave a comment?

   

• Raya bersama Kia with RM8,888 in savings on a Sportage, plus free insurance worth up to RM4,000!

  ADVERTORIAL / by Harvinder Sidhu / 4 March 2026 4:45 pm

  

  There’s just over two weeks to go before Hari Raya Aidilfitri, so no doubt families are looking forward for the drive back home. Make your balik kampung trip extra special this year with the Kia Sportage, now made more affordable than ever before.

  Enjoy an RM8,888 rebate across all variants, on top of a price reduction of up to RM17,199 already offered since the beginning of the year. As such, prices start from just RM119,912 for the 2.0L 2WD Mid, rising up to RM129,912 for the 2.0L 2WD High, RM149,912 for the 1.6T 2WD and RM169,912 for the 1.6 AWD.

  And that is not all – you will also receive free insurance for the first year of ownership, worth up to RM4,000. Remember, these promotions can be stacked with Kia’s other programmes, including a RM6,000 rebate for existing Kia owners under Kia Circle and an up to 3% corporate discount as part of Kia Professional, leading to even bigger savings.

  Last but not least, every registration will put you in the running to win a trip to watch the biggest football match in the world! But you better hurry, as this promotion is only valid until March 31.

  So head on over to your nearest Kia authorised dealer to discover more about the Kia Sportage and take advantage of these offers. For more information, visit the official Kia Malaysia website.

  Terms and conditions apply

   

• Proton Saga MC3 recalled – MY2025 cars recalled for power window replacement, stability control software

  In Cars, Local News, Proton / by Mick Chan / 4 March 2026 4:26 pm

  

  The Proton Saga MC3 of the 2025 model year has been recalled for two technical matters, according to a post on the Proton Saga MC3 2025 Facebook group.

  The post is of an image of what appears to be a service centre computer terminal, depicting two line items. The first states “software updates for electronic stability control”, and the second states “memo [for] all new Saga replacement of power window”.

  The first item regarding the vehicle’s stability control system is self-explanatory, while the second item alludes to the replacement of power window components, without specifying in detail. To reiterate, this is for vehicles of the 2025 model year, which should mean that units produced from the start of this year are unaffected.

  

  Launched in November 2025, the Proton Saga MC3 officially launched with three variants – the Standard AT at RM38,990, the Executive AT at RM44,990, and the Premium CVT at RM49,990. All three are powered by a BHE15PFI 1.5 litre four-cylinder naturally aspirated engine, and as the variant names indicate, the Premium gets the stepless CVT transmission, while the Standard and Executive get the four-speed auto.

  Built on Proton’s Advanced Modular Architecture (AMA), the Saga MC3 is internally known as the AMA01, indicating that the sedan is the first of a series of models set to emerge from the range. This has been confirmed by Proton, with SUVs and an MPV still to come.

  This is made possible by the AMA platform that allows for wheelbase and wheel track widths to be stretched by up to 290 mm, thus enabling the creation of the MPV and SUV derivatives of the Saga of varying sizes.

  0 comments | Leave a comment?

   

• Volvo rolls out Volvo Car UX to 2.5 million cars; free of charge OTA update, for models from MY2020 onwards

  In International News, Technology, Volvo / by Mick Chan / 4 March 2026 3:16 pm

  

  Volvo Cars has announced that it is rolling out its “largest ever” over-the-air software update, covering 2.5 million Volvo passenger vehicles across 85 countries. Named Volvo Car UX, the update brings a new user interface for the infotainment system in Volvo models from 2020 onwards.

  This update will be applicable to Volvo models from 2020 with Google built-in, and the OTA software update will be carried out free of charge, says Volvo. Models applicable include the C40, XC40, EX40, EC40, S60, V60, V60 Cross Country, XC60, S90, V90, V90 Cross Country and XC90, the carmaker stated.

  “This update is one of the largest over-the-air updates in automotive history, leveraging years of investment in Volvo Cars’ tech stack to improve life with their cars for millions of people. Our new user experience delivers significant updates and improvement in areas most used by drivers, and directly addresses the needs and desires of our customers,” said Volvo Cars chief engineering and technology officer Anders Bell.

  

  

  Key improvements offered by the update to Volvo Car UX include requiring fewer taps or clicks to reach the most-used features, easier, more prominent navigation, and an updated look, says Volvo. The most commonly used apps such as maps, media and phone are located on the home screen, and users no longer need to leave Google Maps in order to access media playback functions, it said.

  The update also brings the contextual bar that changes what is displayed according to the present situation, and shows the most recently used apps. For instance, low speed driving will have the icon for exterior cameras appear in order to show the driver that visual aids are available when manoeuvring in tight spaces.

  

  For PHEV models, the Drive Modes icon on the home screen let drivers access the Pure mode alongside other options, which means that switching from hybrid to purely electric driving is just one screen tap away.

  For cars with Google built-in, customers may purchase and download the Pilot Assist feature for cars which do not already have the feature. The Volvo Car UX update also brings preparation for “an optimal conversational AI experience” with Google Gemini, which will be rolled out to compatible cars later this year.

  0 comments | Leave a comment?

   

• Proton eMas 7 PHEV gets 3.5k bookings in 1.5 months

  In Cars, Local News, Proton / by Danny Tan / 4 March 2026 3:05 pm

  

  The Proton eMas 7 PHEV has collected over 3,500 bookings in one and a half months. Order books for the plug-in hybrid sister of the eMas 7 EV opened in mid-January ahead of its official launch on February 4.

  Pro-Net, which handles the Proton eMas brand, says that this encouraging booking figure ‘signals very strong market acceptance’. Billed as a practical upgrade from ICE vehicles, the eMas 7 PHEV ‘provides customers with a seamless transition toward electrified mobility while retaining the familiarity and flexibility of a traditional engine platform’.

  “Surpassing 5,000 deliveries in just two months and achieving more than 3,500 bookings for the eMas 7 PHEV within one and a half months clearly demonstrate that Malaysians are embracing electrified mobility at an accelerating pace. These results validate our strategy of offering practical, value-driven electrification solutions tailored for the local market,” said Zhang Qiang, CEO of Pro-Net.

  

  “We are humbled by the strong response, but we are equally confident that our focus on building a complete EV ecosystem, from product innovation to ownership support, is what truly differentiates the eMas brand. Our goal is to make electrified mobility accessible, reassuring and relevant for everyday Malaysian families,” he added.

  The eMas 7 PHEV sees a 99 PS/125 Nm 1.5-litre NA engine join forces with a 218 PS/262 Nm front electric motor to send a combined output of 262 PS and 262 Nm of torque to the front wheels. The BHE15-DFN is closely related to the Saga MC3’s engine – still port-injected, it’s been made simpler and lighter for higher efficiency, runs on an Atkinson cycle full time as opposed to part time, has just single instead of dual VVT, and features efficient exhaust gas recirculation (EGR).

  An 11-to-1 electrified dedicated hybrid transmission (E-DHT) combines an integrated starter-generator and a traction motor. The system works similar to Honda’s e:HEV in that the car is driven primarily by electricity but the engine can be clutched in at higher speeds, when petrol power is more efficient.

  

  There are Prime, Premium and Premium Plus variants. The bottom two get an 18.4 kWh CATL LFP battery, an 83 km EV range, 943 km combined range, DC charging up to 30 kW (30-80% in under 20 minutes) and an 8.0-second 0-100 km/h time.

  The range-topping Premium Plus gets a 29.8 kWh Geely Aegis short blade LFP battery for 146 km EV range, 996 km combined range, DC charging up to 60 kW (30-80% in under 16 minutes) and 0-100 km/h in 8.2 seconds. The ICE can charge the battery up to a limit of 85%, and at the other end of the scale, the system protects the battery by not allowing state of charge to dip below 20%.

  The eMas 7 PHEV is priced at RM105,800 for the Prime, RM119,800 for the Premium and RM125,800 for the Premium Plus, on-the-road price without insurance. These RRPs are inclusive of a RM4,000 launch rebate for the first 5,000 customers. Full details and specs here.

  GALLERY: Proton eMas 7 PHEV Premium Plus

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  GALLERY: Proton eMas 7 PHEV Premium

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  0 comments | Leave a comment?

   

• BYD Raya Fiesta this March 6-8, Stadium Shah Alam – enjoy a promotion of up to RM18k and RM2k Duit Raya

  ADVERTORIAL / by Harvinder Sidhu / 4 March 2026 3:00 pm

  

  If you’re shopping for a new BYD to help you celebrate Hari Raya in style, you won’t want to miss the BYD Raya Fiesta happening this March 6-8, 2026 at Car Park N1, Stadium Shah Alam, from 10 am to 11 pm.

  Held in conjunction with the Ramadan season, this special sales event is the perfect opportunity to book your brand-new BYD in time for the balik kampung journey during the coming festive period. With a BYD, your drive home will be elevated with exceptional comfort, outstanding performance and smart electric innovation.

  There will be exclusive Raya deals, available only during the event, with rebates of up to RM18,000 and RM2,000 worth of Duit Raya* on all BYD models. If you’re a civil servant or a corporate customer, you stand to enjoy an extra RM2,000 off on selected models*.

  

  

  Additionally, if you book a BYD at the event, you stand to win attractive prizes through a lucky draw, and there’s also a limited edition BYD nerchandise giveaway, where you could walk off with exclusive Raya-themed BYD merchandise (available while stocks last).

  The BYD Raya Fiesta is more than just a sales event – it’s a full festive experience for everyone. Besides being able to test drive the latest BYD models, there will be carnival games galore, ensuring fun-filled activities for families and friends throughout the day. There’s also a Moreh session from 9 pm onwards, so there will be snacks and drinks, and there will also be food trucks around.

  If that’s not enough, how about a complimentary hot air balloon ride? Yes, you read that right! Perfect for photos and unforgettable memories, it promises to take your BYD Raya Fiesta experience to new heights. So, mark the dates, March 6-8, and head on over to Stadium Shah Alam, Car Park N1 for the BYD Raya Fiesta. Follow BYD Cars Malaysia and find out more and register your interest for the event here.

  *Terms & conditions apply.

   

• Tesla Superchargers in Malaysia now open to other EVs – we find out why other DCFCs may be better

  In Feature Stories, Tesla Motors / by Jonathan Lee / 4 March 2026 12:49 pm

  

  Yesterday evening, it was made known that Tesla Malaysia had started opening up its Superchargers to EVs from other brands. This is a big deal, given that they are some of the most reliable DC fast chargers around; the move also represents the Silicon Valley carmaker’s fulfilment of its long-overdue obligation to open at least 30% of its chargers to other vehicles, as part of the BEV Global Leaders programme.

  We wanted to try out these chargers for ourselves, and fortunately I had just the car for the job – my trusty Hyundai Ioniq 6. With its 800-volt architecture enabling DC charging at up to 235 kW, it was the perfect vehicle to stretch the chargers’ legs, what with their claimed output of 250 kW. Or at least, so I thought.

  First, some housekeeping. Superchargers carry preferential pricing for Tesla owners starting from only 93 sen per kWh, but non-Tesla EVs get slapped with a fee of RM1.80 per kWh. There’s also an “congestion fee” (i.e. an idle fee) of RM2.00 per minute if the chargers are busy, applied once the state of charge exceeds 80%.

  

  

  Signs warding off non-Tesla cars remain (left), a nearby 60 kW Shell Recharge DC charger

  That’s not cheap by any means, given that there are plenty of other high-powered DC chargers – including the 350 kW Xpeng-branded Charge+ chargers at KL Eco City – that cost as low as RM1.50 per kWh. When you consider that battery capacities can exceed 100 kWh these days, this 30 sen difference can lead to a significant extra outlay.

  Tesla currently operates Superchargers at 17 locations in Malaysia, but only four of these are open to other brands. These are the V3 stations at Pavilion Kuala Lumpur and Gamuda Cove, as well as the V4 stations at i-City Finance Avenue in Shah Alam and IOI City Mall in Putrajaya.

  

  

  The V3 charger’s short cable meant I had to park rather inconsiderately

  It seems that Tesla has been rather strategic with its choices – the locations within the core Central area had other chargers that were either much slower (Pavilion) or much more expensive (i-City). The other two were far away enough from civilisation that the presence of cheaper high-powered DC chargers nearby would not hurt it. Naturally, as I live in KL, I chose Pavilion as it was by far and away the closest one (by the way, the stations still carried a sign saying that non-Tesla vehicles hogging the chargers would be clamped).

  Parking up, I realised the error of my ways. The V3 chargers there had very short cables that were specifically designed for Teslas – their charging ports are located on the left rear side. As mine was on the opposite side, I could not plug up until I repositioned my car to take up about a third of the next bay.

  

  

  Not as seamless as with a Tesla, but still straightforward

  Yes, for a short period of time I was one of those people, but thankfully there was no one else there. No doubt that a V4 charger – which has a much longer cable to better fit a wider variety of EVs – would’ve made for a better (and less embarrassing) experience.

  Opening the Tesla app, I was prompted to input my billing particulars and, oddly enough, my IC number. Since the Supercharger had no way of talking to the car, I could not use the brilliant auto charge feature – another area where using a Tesla would still be superior. Still, starting the charging process was simple enough – just select the charger and tap on “Start Charging.”

  Charging initiated, I looked at my phone and…what? Only 97 kW?

  

  That’s right – despite my car’s fancy 800-volt system, I was pulling less wattage than a lowly Proton eMas 7. Granted, I did start at 50% charge, but I knew the Ioniq 6 was still capable of much more than that. It was then that I realised the problem with using a charger uniquely configured to maximise Tesla’s low-voltage, high-amperage charging strategy.

  You see, Tesla vehicles charge at 400 volts, so to pull the full 250 kW requires them to accept well north of 600 amps. The Hyundai is capable of just over 300 amps, so even in an ideal world the maximum it could’ve accepted is 120 kW. That’s even before you take into account the fact that the Ioniq 6’s built-in DC-DC converter limits 400-volt charging to a measly 100 kW or so, and it’s been reported that many other 800-volt vehicles also suffer from the same limitation.

  

  As such, you will rarely be able to hit the high charging speeds a Supercharger is capable of, unless you have a 400-volt vehicle capable of that high an amperage (such as the BMW i5, which can accept up to 205 kW). We should also point out that 800-volt EVs without a built-in DC-DC converter – most notably, the new Mercedes-Benz CLA – would likely not be able to charge at all.

  For the small but growing group of 800-volt EV owners, using a non-Tesla DC fast charger – the vast majority of 100 kW-plus chargers in Malaysia are 800-volt capable – is a far better solution. To illustrate that point, I later plugged into the aforementioned KL Eco City chargers, which had longer (and far less awkward to use) cables and almost immediately provided my car with a solid 155 kW of power, despite my car being at a higher state of charge by then.

  

  

  For 800-volt vehicles, using a non-Tesla DC fast charger is simply a better solution

  All in all, I spent six minutes and 30 seconds at the Pavilion Supercharger to charge from 50 to 61%, netting me 9.81 kWh and costing RM17.65 in the process. At the 97 kW that I managed to hit, it would’ve taken me about 15 minutes to charge to 80%; as a comparison, it would take me 18 minutes to charge my car’s 77.4 kWh battery from 10 to 80% at the KL Eco City chargers.

  So, until Tesla Malaysia either upgrades all its chargers to V4 and offer full 800-volt charging, or drastically reduce its per-kWh prices to mitigate the various inconveniences, I’m afraid the move to open up Superchargers to other brands is not the game changer that we all hoped it would be.

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  1 comment | Leave a comment?

   

• Denza Z9 GT coming soon to Malaysia – 5.18m-long shooting brake flagship confirmed, 1H 2026 launch?

  In Cars, Denza, Local News / by Danny Tan / 4 March 2026 12:06 pm

  

  The Denza Z9 GT is coming soon to Malaysia. This was revealed by BYD Malaysia MD Eagle Zhao at the company’s CNY cum buka puasa media event last week. He did not reveal a timeline though, merely saying that the Denza brand’s flagship model is confirmed and on the way.

  First seen at the D9 MPV’s launch over a year ago, the Z9 GT’s was previewed at the paultan.org Premium Auto Car Expo (PACE) in August 2025 before making an appearance at the BYD Tech Discovery showcase event in November, so its impending launch is no surprise. At PACE, we heard that the Z9 GT might be launched in the first half of 2026.

  If you see a ‘9’ on a Chinese car, it’s most likely a flagship, and the Z9 GT sits at the top of the hill for Denza, BYD’s premium brand. There’s a Z9 sedan in China, but this shooting brake version is more eye-catching. Think Porsche Taycan Cross Turismo, although at 5,180 mm long and 1,990 mm wide, the Denza has a bigger footprint than the Porsche. The distance between those 20-inch wheels is 3,125 mm.

  

  In China, the Z9 GT is available in full electric and plug-in hybrid forms. The left-hand-drive BEV unit previewed in Malaysia uses three motors – a single unit in front making 313 PS (230 kW) and 430 Nm, and two motors at the rear, each churning out 326 PS (240 kW) and 360 Nm. Total output is a whopping 965 PS (710 kW) and 1,150 Nm, which propels the GT from 0-100 km/h in 3.4 seconds.

  A 100 kWh Blade lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery provides a range of 630 km on China’s lenient CLTC cycle and supports up to 270 kW of DC fast charging, topping the big pack from 30 to 80% SoC in 19 minutes.

  The PHEV also has three electric motors but they’re less powerful – 272 PS (200 kW) and 315 Nm at the front and 299 PS (220 kW) each at the rear, for a total system output of 870 PS (640 kW) and 1,035 Nm. 0-100 km/h is two tenths slower at 3.6 seconds.

  

  

  

  The 207 PS/325 Nm 2.0-litre turbo-four ICE helps juice the motors and charge the PHEV’s 38.5 kWh LFP battery. Pure electric range is 201 km, contributing to a total range of 1,101 km. With a DC fast charging rate of 82 kW, it too will charge from 30 to 80% SoC in 19 minutes.

  The Denza Z9 GT rides on DiSus-C adaptive dampers, and DiSus-A air suspension is standard on the EV. The latter uses the front camera to scan the road ahead for any imperfections. You also get up to 15 degrees of rear-wheel steering – combined with the torque-vectoring dual rear motors, it allows the car to crab side-to-side and even swivel into tight parking spaces. It’s a cool party trick that BYD never fails to perform.

  The Z9’s cockpit has three screens – a 13.2-inch digital instrument display, a 17.3-inch ‘floating’ infotainment touchscreen and another 13.2-inch display for the front passenger. An augmented-reality head-up display is also present, as is generative AI-based voice control. Under the armrest is a heated and cooled fridge, which is also fitted at the rear.

  Also available in both the front and rear are powered heated/ventilated seats with 10-point massage. There’s also a 20-speaker Devialet sound system. Boot space is 488 litres, and the EV model you see here gets a further 53 litres under the bonnet. There’s a 6 kW vehicle-to-load (V2L) function to power appliances. What do you think of the Denza Z9 GT’s looks and package?

  GALLERY: Denza Z9 GT at PACE 2025

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  1 comment | Leave a comment?

   

• 50,895 motorcycles delivered for Ducati in 2025

  In Bikes, Ducati, International Bike News / by Mohan K Ramanujam / 4 March 2026 11:23 am

  

  A drop in deliveries for 2025 for Italian bike maker Ducati, with 50,985 motorcycles delivered. This represents a 7% drop from 2024, when 54,495 were sold across 800 Ducati dealerships worldwide.

  Ducati attributed this to “a global context influenced by geopolitical and macroeconomic tensions in various areas of the world.” Other causes were the introduction of new commercial measures in some key markets, exchange rate trends, and a European scenario characterised by significant pressure on production costs.

  Additionally, the drop in worldwide sales was due to limited availability of the Monster, Hypermotard, and DesertX due to compliance with European Euro 5+ emissions regulations. These models will be available from February, equipped with the new Ducati V-twin engine.

  

  In terms of volume, Italy continues to be Ducati’s leading market, with a total of 8,803 motorcycles delivered, an 8% drop over 2024. The US ranks second with 7,268 units, rising by 4%, followed by Germany, with 5,759 motorcycles delivered, equating to a 12% drop.

  For European markets, Spain recorded a 15% increase, along with Austria, which rose 14%. Outside Europe, Japan posted a double-digit increase of 11%. China, however, posted a sigificant decline of 31% compared to 2024, continuing a negative trend after a 26% decline in the previous year.

  The Multistrada, in all its versions, remained the most popular motorcycle range among Ducatisti in 2025, with 13,873 units delivered globally. The Panigale family followed, with 10,606 motorcycles delivered, while the Scrambler line-up recorded 5,814 units.

  

  “2025 was a complex year, marked by external factors that impacted the global context, but we addressed these with determination, consolidating our presence in our key segments,” said Francesco Milicia, Ducati VP Global Sales and After Sales. “In the second half of the year, we presented 12 new models, including collector’s bikes like the Panigale V4 Tricolore Italia and the Panigale V4 Lamborghini, which have already been fully assigned to our passionate clients. We look to 2026 with confidence: in the coming months, the Monster, Hypermotard, and DesertX will be available again in our dealerships, completely revamped with the new V2 engine.”

  2025 ended as a season of major sporting achievements for Ducati, which confirmed its competitiveness by further enriching its MotoGP trophy case with a fourth Riders’ Title and a sixth consecutive Constructors’ Title, along with the Teams’ Title. In Superbike, Ducati achieved its twenty-first Manufacturers’ Title in its history, out of the 38 editions which have been held since 1988.

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  0 comments | Leave a comment?

   

• Proton eMas 7 PHEV features Geely global suspension tune – no Proton involvement in its ride and handling

  In Cars, Local News, Proton / by Anthony Lim / 4 March 2026 11:08 am

  

  Suspension tuning has always been a source of pride for Proton, best exemplified through the ‘Proton ride and handling’ association. Marrying a high degree of road-going performance with compliance, it’s a badge that has been worn proudly by many of its past offerings, However, that aspect has become less prominent these days, with the element almost all but invisible in marketing chatter coming off the brand. For good reason.

  While products such as the new Saga MC3 still bear some hallmarks of that prowess, the level of involvement from the brand elsewhere has become less pronounced, notably with the brand’s new electrified offerings, with models such as the eMas 5 EV completely eschewing local input in terms of local suspension-related work, with the rebadged version of the Geome Xingyuan/Geely EX2 utilising a global tune from the Chinese automaker.

  The new eMas 7 PHEV continues on that omission path, with the hybrid – which is essentially the Geely Starray EM-i (or Geely Galaxy Starship 7 in China), rebadged as a Proton – not featuring any Proton-based input for its suspension tune. This was first indicated during the static preview of the SUV, and reiterated during the Q&A session held during the media drive of the car last week.

  

  According to assistant manager of product marketing David Tiah, Proton was not involved in the tuning of the eMas 7 PHEV’s suspension, with the SUV effectively running a global tune.

  “Regarding the suspension, we did not actually do any specific alterations to it, but the development team used a system called the Virtual Chassis Calibration System. It was developed by other premium brands within the group, and now our cars are using it. What it does is it puts the vehicle set-up through multiple different real-life scenarios, virtually, going through different configurations of chassis tuning to find which is the most suitable,” he said.

  That doesn’t mean that there was no feedback through evaluation from the brand’s end. “For months before the launch, we had our test cars on the road, as shown by spy shots, and during that period, our R&D team, like they do for every car, did heavy testing, running DRT (driver-related testing), quality/reliability and electrical systems testing, putting the car through its paces over thousands of kilometres, including going up Genting and along the East Coast,” he said.

  

  

  “All this was so that they could truly evaluate the vehicle to make sure that it fits our roads and our conditions, so that when the car actually gets into the hands of Malaysian drivers, they know that it’s a car that they can truly enjoy driving,” he added.

  With virtual tuning now supposedly able to ascertain the most suitable ride and handling for any particular vehicle, we asked if this meant that things would eventually progress towards the ‘Proton ride and handling’ philosophy being completely omitted in future Proton offerings.

  The answer to that was vague, but suggests that the automaker, away from more “home-grown” products such as the Saga, will likely use suspension calibration defined elsewhere, certainly for all its rebadged models. “Regarding this question per se, I don’t have an answer for you, because these are the decisions that are made by the development team in R&D,” he said.

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  Proton eMas 7 PHEV Premium Plus

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  Proton eMas 7 PHEV Premium

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  11 comments | Leave a comment?

   

• Selangor JPJ issued over 23,000 summonses for various offences in special op for commercial vehicles

  In Local News / by Mick Chan / 4 March 2026 10:57 am

  

  The Selangor road transport department (JPJ) has carried out inspections on 71,918 vehicles across the state in a special enforcement drive focused upon commercial vehicles, New Straits Times has reported.

  Inspections were conducted from March 1 as part of Op Khas Gempur Kenderaan Perdagangan which has been ongoing nationwide, said Selangor JPJ director Azrin Borhan. Of these, 5,053 vehicles were found to have committed offences, resulting in 23,471 summonses being issued during the operation.

  The largest number of offences involved technical violations with 4,336 vehicles detected, while 2,077 vehicles were found to be operating without a vocational licence (GDL or PSV licences). 1,800 vehicles were found to be driven by drivers without a competent driving licence (CDL), 1,884 committed road tax offences, 689 were without insurance coverage, and 3,204 were found to have committed other offences, Azrin said.

  

  Of the 23,471 summonses issued, 14,208 were P22 summons notices, 4,126 were vehicle prohibition notices, 3,983 were inspection direction notices, 250 were investigation attendance notices, as well as other related notices, he added.

  The Selangor JPJ will continue monitoring and enforcement operations to ensure that commercial vehicle operators continue to comply with traffic regulations, the state’s JPJ director said.

  “Strict action will be taken against any party or individual who fails to comply with traffic regulations in order to safeguard the safety of all road users. We remain committed to continuous monitoring of complaints and ensuring that vehicles comply with all stipulated road laws and regulations,” he said.

  Overall, the JPJ inspected 1.2 million commercial vehicles nationwide last year, and from that total, action was taken on 240,493 vehicles, including the seizure of 465 units.

  3 comments | Leave a comment?

   

• BMW Motorrad shows R 1300 R Superhooligan

  In Bikes, BMW Motorrad, International Bike News / by Mohan K Ramanujam / 4 March 2026 10:51 am

  

  Unveiled at Daytona Bike Week in Florida, US, is the BMW Motorrad R 1300 R Superhooligan. Based on the R 1300 R naked sports (Malaysia gets the sport-touring specification R 1300 RT in five model variants with pricing starting at RM167,000), the R 1300 R Superhooligan commemorates BMW Motorrad’s racing victory at Daytona in 1976.

  Rider Steve McLaughlin garnered BMW Motorrad’s first inaugural AMA Superbike Championship victory at Daytona while Reg Pridmore won the championship that same year. Both riders were campaigning the BMW Motorrad R 90 S for the Butler & Smith race team.

  

  

  For the Superhgooligan, a small group of BMW Motorrad employees from the BMW Motorrad Custom Speed Shop took a standard R 1300 R and turned it into a naked superbike, following the style of the 70s. This is reflected in the wide handlebars and large racing number boards.

  The Superhooligan gets McLaughlin’s race number ’83’ and components painted in the BMW R 90 S color of the time, including the front fenders and tank side panels. The aluminium sub-frame is painted the same blue used on M 1000 RR brake callipers, as are the fully-adjustable Wilbers upside-down front forks that are extended 30 mm to increase ground clearance, and the spring of the fully adjustable Wilbers rear monoshock.

  

  Added to the mix is a lightweight M 1000 RR carbon front wheel and a range of lightweight, high-strength carbon-fibre components from the BMW Motorrad catalogue and Ilmberger Carbon Parts. Additionally, adjustable hand levers from Advik, a lightweight titanium exhaust system with carbon-fibre end silencer from Akrapovič, and milled BMW Motorrad footrests are fitted to the Superhooligan.

  The R 1300 R was introduced in April 2025 and carries BMW Motorrad’s iconic boxer twin engine, displacing 1,300 cc. With enlarged cylinder bore and a new crankshaft with reduced stroke, the R1300 R gets 145 hp at 7,750 rpm and a maximum torque of 149 NM at 6,500 rpm.

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  

  

  

  

  

  
  

  0 comments | Leave a comment?

   

• JPJ eBid: NEK and APL number plates up for bidding

  In Local News / by Danny Tan / 4 March 2026 9:34 am

  

  

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

  Negeri Sembilan’s latest running number series is ‘NEK’, and it will open for tender on March 9. The bidding period on JPJeBid is five days, ending 10pm on March 13. As usual, the results will be out the following day. The whole process is online now, as it has been for some time, and bidders will get the good (or bad) news via email.

  Also available on JPJ eBid is the Perak series ‘APL’. The bidding period starts on March 10, and will close at 10pm on March 14. Results will be out the day after the auction closes.

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

  0 comments | Leave a comment?

   

Latest Fuel Prices