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SR Gemilang Transport (M) Sdn Bhd has become the latest member of the Scania Ecolution partnership, and is the first truck operator in the northern region of Malaysia to do so. Scania Ecolution is a partnership between Scania and its customers to make a concerted effort to reduce their carbon footprint via total solutions.

Scania Malaysia_SR Gemilang Transport_EcolutionScania became the first major manufacturer of heavy commercial vehicles to have its far-reaching climate targets officially approved by the Science Based Target initiative (SBTi) back in April 2020. Scania made a conscious commitment to achieve the Paris Agreement goals of limiting global warming to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels. SR Gemilang’s participation in the Scania Ecolution partnership is part of this global initiative by the commercial vehicles manufacturer.

SR Gemilang has a fleet of 80 trucks, adding four units of Scania New Truck Generation (NTG) that delivered the best uptime among all the brands in SR Gemilang’s fleet. SR Gemilang Managing Director, M. Aziz, committed to purchase an additional order of five units of Scania NTG. These will be delivered to the company in 2021.

Scania Ecolution Partnership_SR Gemilang Transport (M) Sdn BhdThe Scania Ecolution partnership will involve the monitoring of fuel consumption, vehicle and driver behaviour on a daily basis and reviewed monthly. The information gathered is meant to help reduce fuel consumption and carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions, as well as lower the costs of operation.

The earlier Scania trucks that SR Gemilang acquired in 2015 has managed to deliver very good returns for the company as the fuel savings was the best in its entire fleet. The NTGs that are equipped with advanced powertrain and aerodynamic solutions will help deliver a further 3% fuel savings.

“Our customers are very happy that we decided to purchase the NTGs to carry their goods as they, themselves, know that the NTGs are well known as the best and most reliable truck in the market. Our customers are assured of on time delivery of their goods,” said Muhammad Jaafar, Director of SR Gemilang who signed the Ecolution partnership together with Heba Eltarifi, Managing Director of Scania Southeast Asia.

Muhammad Jaafar took control as Director of SR Gemilang, while M. Aziz took the lead as Managing Director, to start managing a haulage business catering mostly to electronic items, food products and garments. The business started in 2007 with six trucks, three of which were Scania. The company expanded its fleet quickly as its focus on service quality and marketing efforts paid off.

Scania_Truck_SR Gemilang_LogisticsSR Gemilang has also been successful in creating associations with other logistic providers for joint-venture projects, sub-contracting either way. The company also managed to take advantage of the increase in demand for reliable and trustworthy transportation, especially deliveries to and from the Ipoh free trade zones. SR Gemilang is one of the largest logistic providers from Ipoh and is one of the main transporters of duty-free products from the Ipoh free trade zone to Westport and Northport for oversea exports on a daily basis. The company operates from its headquarters in Ipoh, Port Klang as well as the Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA).

“We are very pleased to be part of Scania’s global initiative. We work hard for our family, and it’s up to us to do whatever we can to care for the environment and set a positive example for our children to follow. I truly hope that they too will do their part in caring for the environment,” concluded Jaafar.

Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia (MMM) has recorded a historical high, achieving its best-ever sales performance for its last quarter. Between January and March 2021, the company sold 4,156 vehicles to close off its fourth quarter of its 2020 Financial Year, a 135% increase compared to its 2019 Financial Year 2019 Q4 (January – March 2020). In the same period, Mitsubishi Motors is also the top three non-national brand for three consecutive months.

For its 2020 fiscal year, spanning April 2020 to March 2021, the company saw a 51% increase in year-on-year sales to 11,554 vehicles. This achievement is mainly contributed by the strong reception to its Mitsubishi XPANDER. Since the launch in November 2020, MMM had received over 9,300 bookings for the XPANDER. Thus far, the company had delivered about 2,742 units to the new owners.

Mitsubishi Triton Adventure X_Sun Flare Orange Pearl“Due to the overwhelming positive response for the new XPANDER, we are progressing to increase our production volume to cater for higher production capacity to fulfil all booking demands,” said Tomoyuki Shinnishi, Chief Executive Officer of MMM.

Meanwhile, the company’s volume seller, the Mitsubishi Triton pick-up truck, also fared well in Malaysia. Year-on-year sales of the Triton increased by 32% with 7,568 units sold in FY20 compared to FY19.

Mitsubishi Motors 3S_Ingress Motors Centre_Petaling Jaya“Despite the challenging market situation, MMM closed FY20 on a high with the main drivers for volume growth – the Triton pick-up truck and the new XPANDER seven-seater crossover. Backed by our committed dealers, we have expanded our sales outlets to Temerloh, Kuala Selangor and Petaling Jaya last financial year, and more than 60% of our dealers have upgraded their outlets for a better customer experience. This FY21, we will continue to expand our dealer network in order to serve our customers better in terms of sales and aftersales,” said Shinnishi.

He added, “We thank our customers who have supported the Mitsubishi brand and the good sales only reveal brand and customer’s loyalty. In return for this strong support, we prioritize all our customers’ needs by introducing a seamless digitalization sale and after sales experience with the introduction of Test Drive 2U, MITSUBISHI CONNECT mobile application as well as the newly launched Mitsubishi Online Showroom. With this, we persevere to push forward and to remain optimistic in our new financial year, in terms of growing our sales while maintaining a dedicated after sales service.”

The new BMW R 1250 RT is here. Introduced by BMW Motorrad Malaysia recently, the latest generation of this dynamic touring motorcycle comes in two style choices i.e. Style Sport and Style Elegance, and carries a retail price of RM142,500 (on the road, without insurance, and with BMW Motorrad Malaysia’s all-new 3-Year Warranty and 3-Year Roadside Assistance Programmes).

New BMW R 1250 RT“We are pleased to welcome yet another addition to the BMW Motorrad family. The BMW RT has always set the benchmark in this class, and the New BMW R 1250 RT will be no different, offering owners a new look, a comprehensive increase in standard equipment and numerous technical upgrades for a whole new riding experience,” Harald Hoelzl, Managing Director of BMW Group Malaysia said.

“The new generation of the long-distance touring companion – the New BMW R 1250 RT also proudly represents the segment that contributed to much of BMW Motorrad’s success in 2020, rivalling its own success in 2019. We are confident that the new motorcycle will follow in the tracks of its predecessor and Make Life a Ride for motorcycling enthusiasts nationwide,” he added.

The latest generation BMW R 1250 RT motorcycle comes with more sophisticated innovations for greater riding pleasure. The new tourer is fitted with a host of standard equipment including a luggage rack, storage compartment, centre stand, integral pannier cases in body colour, two-tone fanfare, and an adjustable windscreen. Also standard is the cast aluminium wheels.

BMW R 1250 RT_LED Adaptive HeadlightsThe bold appearance of the BMW R 1250 RT is accentuated by a newly-developed front fairing with optimised aerodynamics, which also encloses the new full LED adaptive headlights with swivel function. The turn indicators and tail light are also LED. 

Additionally, the bike comes with the legendary shaft-driven, two-cylinder 1,254 cc boxer engine capable of an output of 100 kW (136 hp) @ 7,750 rpm and 143 Nm of torque @ 6,250 rpm in the current EU5 registration, to provide a dynamic and comfortable travel experience. Complemented by the BMW ShiftCam technology with variable camshaft control for varying valve timing and valve lift on the intake side, the technology offers superior power across the entire speed range.

To cushion the rider, the BMW R 1250 RT comes with the Dynamic ESA “Next Generation” electronic suspension with fully automatic load compensation. A rear suspension strut with travel-dependent damping, adjustable rear preload and rear rebound, along with the steering stabiliser are also fitted in the R 1250 RT. Meanwhile, the BMW Motorrad Telelever front suspension helps improve riding comfort and complements the functions of the anti-lock braking system (ABS). The BMW Motorrad Paralever, on the other hand, combines a sporty design with a consistent lightweight construction to ensure extremely sensitive response characteristics for the rear wheel suspension, as well as higher ground clearance.

BMW R 1250 RT TourerFurther, the BMW R 1250 RT also has adjustable handbrake and clutch levers, along with heated grips. Also available as standard is the new BMW Motorrad Full Integral ABS Pro which enables both the front and rear brakes simultaneously upon application. The Dynamic Traction Control (DTC) also ensures a high level of riding safety by providing excellent traction. Moreover, the new standard “Eco” riding mode helps to optimise fuel efficiency. In addition to the three standard riding modes is the Riding Modes Pro package that offers the Dynamic riding mode and new dynamic engine brake control (MSR).

Other notable features are the Hill Start Control and Active Cruise Control, available as standard with the Dynamic Package, which go the extra mile with radar sensor technology to enable relaxed gliding with distance control.

For infotainment, the BMW R 1250 RT comes with a new multi-functional instrument cluster with 10.25″ full-colour TFT screen, a multi-controller, Bluetooth, and map navigation – available via the BMW Motorrad Connected App. The new Audio System 2.0 / Radio Software also provides music entertainment on the road, with full sound functionality best achieved with the BMW Motorrad Communication System.

The Comfort and Dynamic packages are standard, offering a range of features such as Gear Shift Assistant Pro, Keyless Ride function, central locking system, seat heating, electric immobiliser with anti-theft alarm system, tyre pressure control, 12V socket, and enhanced mobile smart phone connectivity with wireless charging capability.

The BMW R 1250 RT is now in BMW Motorrad showrooms. You can also enjoy additional benefits with the All-New Industry-Leading Premium Engine Oil Inclusive, Service Inclusive and Warranty Extension Programmes by BMW Motorrad Malaysia.

For more information on the programmes, please visit https://www.bmw-motorrad.com.my/en/service/warranty.html.

Financial Services

With the Financing Plan from BMW Group Financial Services Malaysia, ownership of the New BMW R 1250 RT starts from RM1,738 per month. This is based on balloon financing estimates of an 80% loan on a 4-year tenure.

 

Perodua Ativa X_Front_SilverIn the first three months of 2021, Perodua sold about 57,911 vehicles, which represents a year-on-year growth of 29% (up from 44,977 vehicles in the same period of 2020). While this may look impressive especially since this is compared to the pre-pandemic days of 2020, it is within expectations for Perodua as consumers start to consider reliable, budget-friendly options during a crisis. This increase in sales during the first quarter of 2021 can also be attributed to the launch of the Perodua Ativa SUV in March.

“March saw a jump in our sales numbers to an estimated 24,433 units, underpinned by strong demand, particularly for the Ativa, which has collected 14,574 bookings since we began order-taking on 19 February,” Perodua President and Chief Executive Officer Dato’ Zainal Abidin Ahmad said.

Perodua’s month-on-month registrations jumped by 47.3% to 24,433 units in March 2021, compared to 16,583 units in February.

Perodua_President & CEO_Dato' Zainal Abidin AhmadDato Zainal added that out of the 14,574 Ativa bookings received so far, 4,345 units have been delivered since the new model’s launch. The demand for the Ativa is currently skewed 67% towards the range-topping AV variant, which is within its expectations.

“This makes the Perodua Ativa the best-selling compact SUV in the country in the month of March. We are glad that the Perodua Ativa has gotten off to such a strong start, and that we well surpassed our 3,000-unit monthly delivery target in the first month. We thank Malaysians for their support and trust. On our end, we are committed towards timely deliveries of every order made,” Dato’ Zainal said.

Perodua ProGantiAlso in the first quarter of 2021, Perodua’s production volume amounted to 60,383 vehicles, up from 49,280 vehicles in 1Q20 (+23%). “For now, our biggest challenge is the semiconductor chip shortage, which is having varying impacts on carmakers on a global scale. We are working with our partners to find alternative supply while at the same time monitoring the situation on a daily basis to ensure continued operation of our production lines,” he said. Perodua targets a production of 272,000 units (+23% from 2020’s 220,968 units) and 2.4 million service intakes (+20% from 2020’s 2 million service intakes) this year.

Perodua Global Manufacturing Sdn Bhd Official Opening RobotAccording to Dato’ Zainal, Perodua will still be able to meet its initial 2021 sales target of 240,000 vehicles, despite the semiconductor issue. Perodua’s 2021 sales target represents a 9% increase from the 220,163 units sold in 2020, and is expected to lead to a record purchase of RM6.5 billion worth of locally-sourced components this year. The company’s 2Q21 sales numbers should look even more impressive year-on-year as the second quarter of 2020 saw disruptions to production and sale activities.

 

Just 18 months after its global debut in Thailand, the all-new Isuzu D-Max is set for an official launch in Malaysia this month (April). The third generation of the dependable pick-up truck from the Japanese automotive giant will also include additional safety features and a new engine choice.

Isuzu Malaysia_Masayuki Suzuki_Chief Operating Officer_Light Commercial Vehicle DivisionPrior to the launch, all Isuzu authorised dealerships nationwide are accepting orders for the new D-Max. “We are extremely thrilled that this impressive all-new Isuzu D-Max has been made available in Malaysia much earlier than expected. As the fifth country in the world to launch this model after its global introduction in Thailand, it stands as testament to the strong commitment from Isuzu Motors towards ensuring that the Malaysian market enjoys the latest selection of choice Isuzu vehicles,” said Chief Operating Officer of Isuzu Malaysia’s Light Commercial Division, Mr Masayuki Suzuki, when announcing the start of the pre-launch booking. He commented that the fast-tracked launch of the all-new Isuzu D-Max was made possible through the strong support of Isuzu Motors Ltd that views Malaysia as a strategic market.

The all-new Isuzu D-Max has been extensively developed to exceed the normal perimeters of a pick-up truck while adding an emotive dimension to its highly dependable and capable nature. It is developed based on a bold and sporty design theme to give the D-Max a stronger road presence. Its new masculine frontal design and purposeful outline now projects a more athletic and dynamic stance.

It also bears larger overall dimensions, with a longer wheelbase, more spacious cabin and larger load bed to offer all-round improvements to its comfort, space and versatility, making this a more desirable pick-up truck for every purpose.

Isuzu_D-Max_EngineThe all-new D-Max will be available in a choice of the award-winning RZ-4E 1.9L turbo diesel engine or the revised 4JJ-3TCX 3.0L engine, which looks set to make the new D-Max range a game changer in the pick-up market. It will also offer a variety of configurations in single and double cab form.

Furthermore, the all-new D-Max offers a new level of safety to offer improved protection for occupants as well as other road users. Aiding drivers will be a host of Advanced Driver Assist Systems (ADAS) available in selected variants. The all-new D-Max has scored the maximum five-star rating in the 2020 ASEAN NCAP tests for safety.

Isuzu D-Max_Interior_Dashboard“The all-new Isuzu D-Max has made scores of new fans in the markets it has been introduced in and I believe that the same will happen here in Malaysia. This new model evokes a new level of interest in owning and driving a pick-up truck hence we have initiated this pre-launch booking programme to ensure those who have eagerly awaited the arrival of the new model will be among the very first to take delivery once it has been officially launched,” added Mr Suzuki.

The all-new Isuzu D-Max that will make its official debut at the end of April 2021. Estimated retail prices will be between RM89,000 and RM145,000, depending on model and also subject to government approvals. You can make an early booking at any of the Isuzu showrooms listed here.

To learn more about the all-new Isuzu D-Max, visit the Isuzu D-Max Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/ISUZU.DMax.Malaysia/)

TC Subaru Sdn Bhd is currently offering special Promotional Packages on the Subaru Forester range. The exclusive distributor of Subaru vehicles in Malaysia is giving rebates worth up to RM30,000 to buyers of the new Forester.

The Subaru Forester is built with the four hallmark Subaru Core Technologies:

  1. Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive
  2. Boxer Engine
  3. Subaru Global Platform
  4. EyeSight Driver Assist Technology

These attributes contribute a total of more than 100 safety features, making it one of the toughest and safest crossovers in the market.

Power comes from a 2.0L boxer engine which produces 156 PS and 196 Nm of torque, and is prioritised for fuel efficiency. The power is transferred via a Lineartronic Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) with seven speed manual mode to all four wheels, managed by the Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system.

Standard features across all variants are power windows (front windows have auto up/down and pinch protection), keyless entry, push button start, PIN code access, one-touch lane change signal, three 12V power outlets, retractable cargo cover, leather-wrapped steering wheel and gear knob, 8-way powered front seats, reclining rear seats with one-touch folding switch, pop-up headlamp washer, rain-sensing wipers, roof spoiler, shark fin antenna, dual zone climate control, rear ventilation system, 8″ display with navigation, six speakers, Bluetooth, three USB ports, rear view camera, paddle shifters, and cruise control.

Subaru_EyeSight_CamerasThe variant with Eyesight driver assist technology uses a pair of colour stereo cameras for accident prevention (Pre-Collision Braking, Pre-Collision Throttle Management), and driving assistance (Adaptive Cruise Control, Lead Vehicle Start Alert, Lane Departure and Lane Sway Warning). This variant also has the Subaru Rear Vehicle Detection to cover rear blind spots, and Side View Monitor for manouevring tight spaces.

The retail prices for the Subaru Forester starts from RM159,788 and there are six variants to choose from:

  • Forester 2.0i-L GT Lite Edition
  • Forester 2.0i-S
  • Forester 2.0i-S GT Lite Edition
  • Forester 2.0i-S Eyesight
  • Forester 2.0i-S Eyesight GT Lite Edition
  • Forester 2.0i-S Eyesight GT Edition

The promotional package is only available for selected model year units with a limited selection of colours.

TC Subaru is also providing a Special Trade-in Assist programme as added value for you to trade in your vehicle to purchase the new Forester.

All new Subaru Forester units are entitled to a 5-year comprehensive warranty. You may visit any of the Subaru showrooms nationwide to find out more.

Test Drive At Home

TC Subaru will continue its ‘Test Drive at Home’ initiative for customers who do not wish to travel to its showrooms. To make use of this convenient service, you can contact your nearest Subaru  showroom and schedule an appointment for a sales consultant to drive the Subaru of your choice to your preferred location for a test drive.

In line with Subaru’s focus on safety, the company has in place stringent protocols for the well-being and peace-of-mind of customers. All vehicles are thoroughly sanitised after servicing and test drives. This includes all touch points like armrests, door handles, gear knobs, ignition buttons and steering wheels. In addition,  technical staff are required to clean and sanitise all shared equipment after use, as well as put on a clean set of gloves whenever they work on a new vehicle.

Isuzu_LogoIsuzu Motors has formalised its acquisition of UD Trucks from the Volvo Group as part of a strategic alliance to forge a partnership in technology development and sharing, in order to strengthen their presence in the commercial vehicles sector and improve economies of scale.

Isuzu Motors and Volvo Group will establish a Joint Alliance Office, with facilities both in Japan and Sweden, which will be overseen by an Alliance Board comprising the Isuzu Motors President, the Volvo Group CEO and other key executives from the two groups.

This Alliance is tasked to build a long-term and robust relationship that will cover (but are not limited to) the following aspects:

  • To form a technology partnership to leverage the parties’ complementary areas of expertise within both well-known and new technologies and create a larger volume base to support investments for world-class technology.
  • To create the best long-term conditions for a stronger heavy-duty truck business for UD Trucks and Isuzu Motors in Japan as well as across international markets, by transferring ownership of the complete UD Trucks business from the Volvo Group to Isuzu Motors.
  • To explore opportunities for an even broader and deeper collaboration within the commercial vehicle businesses across geographical areas and product lines for future urban logistics solutions.
  • To explore cooperation in the areas of purchasing and logistics, leveraging common technology, as well as the geographical footprint complementarity and volume expansion.

The Alliance will operate for at least 20 years to synergise and develop products and solutions for the future, and to maximise value and benefits for customers.

As part of this strategic alliance, Naoto Hakamata has been appointed Chairman of UD Trucks, effective 1 April 2021. He succeeds Joachim Rosenberg, Volvo Group Executive Vice President, who resigned as Chairman. Concurrently, Tetsuya Aiba has been appointed Chief Financial Officer of UD Trucks.

UD Trucks Quester, Ageo, JapanUD Trucks, which started operations in 1935, has built a reputation as a leading Japanese commercial vehicles brand. It currently has market presence in over 60 countries. Known for its ‘gemba‘ spirit of offering dependable and professional products and solutions, UD Trucks had been a subsidiary of Volvo Group since 2007, and had integrated Volvo technology, procurement, logistics, production and sales processes into its operations. The company had also made concerted efforts to promote diversity, flexible ways of working, and a global mindset that embraces change.

As the finer details of the Alliance gets worked out, UD Trucks will continue operating as its own brand and business entity in its respective markets. And as such, sales and aftersales support will carry on as usual. UD Trucks will continue to fulfill its brand promise of “Going the Extra Mile”, and eventually together with Isuzu Motors, will strive to make life better for the people and the planet.

 

L-R: Will Choi, Coordinating Director – Marketing; Joseph Choi, Coordinating Director – Sales; Scott Park, Head of Business Strategy; Tae Hun (Ted) Lee, President & CEO, Kia Asia Pacific; Dato’ Sri Ben Yeoh, Executive Chairman of Bermaz Auto Berhad; Dato’ Francis Lee, CEO of Bermaz Auto Berhad; Dato’ Amer Hamzah, Chairman, Executive Director of Prima Merdu Sdn Bhd; Dato’ Wong Kin Foo, Managing Director of Dinamikjaya Motors Sdn Bhd.

Bermaz Auto Berhad (BAuto; formerly Berjaya Auto) has partnered with Kia Motors Corporation of South Korea to form a strategic partnership for the local assembly of Kia vehicles in Malaysia. A newly incorporated
company, Kia Malaysia Sdn Bhd (KMSB) will be formed to undertake the completely knocked down (CKD) operations of Kia vehicles in Malaysia. Kia intends to make KMSB the regional manufacturing hub for ASEAN countries and other potential markets, primarily for right-hand-drive vehicles.

Also taking effect from this partnership is the appointment of Dinamikjaya Motors Sdn Bhd as the sole distributor of Kia vehicles in Malaysia. Dinamikjaya (DJMSB) is a subsidiary of BAuto. As the new distributor, DJMSB holds the right to distribute and sell Kia vehicles, CKD and completely built-up (CBU), sale of genuine parts as well as in the provision of aftersales service, as well as to build Kia’s brand reputation and awareness in Malaysia.

Kia Motors Corporation_Tae Hun (Ted) Lee_President & CEO_Kia Asia Pacific“After months of searching for the right partner, Kia is delighted to enter into the Kia JV and Kia Distributorship with BAuto. With BAuto’s proven capability in successfully building up automotive marques in Malaysia and the Philippines as well as their automotive manufacturing experience, we believe we have placed the Kia brand in good hands under the capable leadership of its Executive Chairman, Dato’ Sri Ben Yeoh.” says Mr Tae Hun (Ted) Lee, the President and Chief Executive Officer of Kia Asia Pacific.

Kia SeltosThis alliance will see three Kia models planned for local assembly in Malaysia i.e. Kia Seltos, Kia Carnival and a model to be determined later (another SUV would be a good guess). However, don’t count on these being available next month as the ink on the agreement had just dried and all parties have to work on the nitty gritty, as well as obtain the relevant approvals. A reasonable timeline for the commencement of CKD operations is about 12 – 18 months, depending on complexity (training, logistics, equipment set-up, etc) and also how fast approvals are obtained.

Kia 3S Centre_Kota Bharu_Kelantan_Raza MotorsWhat would be more immediate however, is the management of the dealerships and engagement with current and potential Kia customers. BAuto had said that the immediate priority is to work out solutions for both the Kia dealerships and Kia vehicle owners, as well as to manage the existing inventory. This ball, however, would fall not just into BAuto and Dinamikjaya’s court, but also Kia Motors, which should offer support to the new distributor to repair and enhance the brand’s image and market perception.

Bermaz Auto_Dato Sri Ben Yeoh“We are pleased to be given this opportunity to undertake the Kia JV and Kia Distributorship with our partner, Kia under Hyundai Motor Group, which is Korea’s second-largest multinational automotive manufacturer and currently the fifth-largest automotive manufacturer in the world. Kia marque vehicles are well-known for their stylish looks, packed with smart features, frequent facelifts and new launches that keep prospective buyers excited over its products. The Kia JV and Kia Distributorship will complement our existing Group automotive businesses and we look forward to a successful collaboration with Kia.” says Dato’ Sri Ben Yeoh, the Executive Chairman of BAuto.

Mr Ted Lee further adds, “BAuto is a renowned public listed automotive company in Malaysia. It has a strong management team and good track record. Hence, Kia is confident that the Kia JV and Kia Distributorship will promote growth and bring synergistic benefits to both parties.”

Honda Malaysia recently presented its new Honda City RS e:HEV to Invest Melaka Berhad (IMB) in conjunction with the 50th anniversary celebration of the Melaka State Development Corporation (PKNM). The presentation of the popular B-segment sedan model was done in collaboration with SOCAR Mobility Malaysia Sdn Bhd.

Mr. Sarly Adle Sarkum, President and Chief Operating Officer of Honda Malaysia, presented the Honda City RS e:HEV to Tuan Haji Ramli Bin Mohd Ali, Chief Executive Officer of Invest Melaka Berhad at a ceremony held in Menara MITC, Melaka which was also graced by Chief Minister of Melaka YAB Datuk SeriUtama (Dr.) Haji Sulaiman bin Md Ali, the Melaka Secretary of State and Melaka State Executive Council Members.

Honda Malaysia“On behalf of Honda Malaysia, we are delighted to be a part of the celebration by Invest Melaka Berhad and to be able to contribute to the development of our local automotive industry. Honda began operations at Pegoh Plant in Melaka over 17 years ago and currently has two production lines with a production capacity of up to 100,000 units of vehicles per year. We are committed to the Malaysian market and the growth of the automotive industry here. We would like to thank the Malaysian Government, the State Government of Melaka, Invest Melaka Berhad and all our valued customers for their continuous trust which enables Honda to be the company that society wants to exist. With the strong support received, we have recently celebrated our remarkable milestone of 1 millionth sales unit. Honda will continue to be committed in giving back to all Malaysians through various initiatives,” commented Mr. Sarly.

The Honda City RS e:HEV is the brand’s top-of-the-line variant for its B-segment sedan. It was launched in October 2020 and represents a game-changing model for its segment, in terms of pioneering technology, and performance.

Honda City RS_Front Grille_Headlight_Fog LightThe City RS e:HEV is fitted with a highly efficient 2-motor hybrid system powered by a 1.5L DOHC i-VTEC (Atkinson cycle) intelligent Multi-Mode Drive (i-MMD) system. The e:HEV system is considered revolutionary as it is able to deliver best-in-class torque of 253 Nm. Power output is rated at 109 PS. Combined with the Electric Continuous Variable Transmission (e-CVT), it manages to deliver powerful and smooth acceleration equivalent to a D-segment naturally aspirated car. Furthermore, the e:HEV system optimises efficiency by switching between the three driving modes i.e. EV Drive, Hybrid Drive and Engine Drive.

Honda CONNECT TelematicsThe City RS e:HEV is also the first Honda model in Malaysia to be equipped with the Honda CONNECT telematics system. This functions to ensure Safety, Security& Convenience for Honda car owners. The key functions of the telematics technology include Vehicle Diagnostics, Remote Applications, Security Applications, Vehicle Tracking and Support Services, all of which have the purpose to ease the owner’s accessibility to their vehicle and its information whenever and wherever. Additionally, it also allows for features such as Emergency Call (e-Call) which is a one of the 2020 National Automotive Policy (NAP) thrusts i.e. Mobility as a Service (MaaS).

Honda City RS e-HEV_Honda SENSINGThe City RS e:HEV is also fitted with the Honda SENSING driver assistance safety system which incorporates Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS), Forward Collision Warning (FCW), Lane Keep Assist System (LKAS), Road Departure Mitigation (RDM), Lane Departure Warning (LDW), and Auto High Beam (AHB). This system is complemented by Honda LaneWatch which displays the vehicle blind spot on the infotainment display when you signal to change lanes.

For more information or to test drive on the Honda City RS e:HEV, you can visit any of the 102 authorised Honda dealers nationwide, www.honda.com.my, or call the toll-free number (1-800-88-2020). You can also pre-book the car online (www.prebook.honda.com.my).

Japanese truck maker, HINO, now has a 3S (Sales, Service & Spare Parts) centre to better serve its customers in Johor. The new 3S centre, managed by Auto Skyline Sdn Bhd, received upgrades earlier this year to become a one-stop solutions centre to meet customers’ needs.

Auto Skyline has experience in the coach-building industry since 1990, and started as an authorised Hino dealer in 2002, with a 1S (Sales) outlet. This upgrade and expansion comes from the confidence of all parties to invest in the potential of the brand and the market.

Hino 3S Centre_Auto Skyline_Atsushi Uchiyama_Beck Kuang Chiaw
L-R: Mr. Atsushi Uchiyama, Managing Director HMSM with Mr. Beck Kuang Chiaw, Managing Director Auto Skyline, at the official opening

“With the growth of our business, we find that it is imperative to offer a one-stop solution under one roof to our customers. The decision to upgrade is based on the confidence in the future and potential of HINO in Malaysia, especially in Johor state,” said Skyline Managing Director, Beck Kuang Chiaw. “I strongly believe that HINO products with its QDR: Quality, Durability, and Reliability will continuously be trusted by our customers and be chosen to contribute to their business. Upgrading from 1S to 3S centre is indeed a great investment especially for future business development,” he added.

Drawing inspiration from the brand’s Japanese-inspired ideals and corporate identity guidelines, the 3S centre has four service bays with state-of-art equipment. To provide comfort and convenience to its customers, the outlet will provide refreshments, complimentary WiFi, and a TV in its air-conditioned lounge area. The 8160 sq ft 3S centre is conveniently located in the Tebrau industrial hub.

Auto Skyline_Hino 3S Centre_Johor Bahru_Official OpeningPutting customer-centric value as a top priority in the business direction, Hino Motors Sales (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd (HMSM) Managing Director, Atsushi Uchiyama said, “We appointed Auto Skyline as Hino Authorised 3S centre to offer a one-stop solution under one roof to our customers. One-stop solution centre is known as customer-centric main angle in our industry and this will enhance the confidence of our customers from the point of deciding to purchase a Hino. With the full range of service under one roof, we aim to enhance customer service and excellent experience of owning a Hino vehicle.”

To-date, HMSM has established 35 HINO authorised 3S centres throughout the country to further enhance the company’s new standards and corporate image.

“As a reliable business partner, customers remain at the heart of everything we do, and this 3S centre is convenient for the customer from making inquiries about the latest Hino models to purchasing one and getting all the required after-sales services,” added Uchiyama-san.

Hino 700 Series_SR1E 6x2_AMT_Prime Mover_MalaysiaLeveraging on its over 40 years’ presence in the country, Hino Malaysia continues to make improvements to its performance in Sales and Aftersales Services through various ‘Total Support’ engagement programmes to provide the best solutions and ownership experience to its truck and bus customers.

The new Auto Skyline HINO Authorised 3S centre is located at PLO 178, Jalan Angkasa Mas 6, Kawasan Perindustrian Tebrau 2, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor. It is open Mondays to Saturdays from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm.

For inquiries, contact (07)-355 3433.

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