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In a move to accelerate Malaysia’s transition towards sustainable transport, BYD Sime Motors, the official distributor of BYD electric vehicles in Malaysia, has partnered with the Ministry of Transport (MOT) to promote electric vehicle (EV) adoption and reduce carbon emissions.

The collaboration, officially launched at the MOT headquarters in Putrajaya, introduces a 6-month EV experience programme called “Jom Pandu BYD Bersama MOT”, aimed at showcasing the benefits of EVs to government personnel. The initiative is supported by Gentari Green Mobility Sdn Bhd, a subsidiary of Gentari Sdn Bhd, which has also installed 2 22 kW AC EV chargers at MOT’s premises. BYD Sime Motors_Ministry of Transport Malaysia_Jom Pandu BYD Bersama MOT

Under the programme, MOT officers will have access to BYD’s latest range of EVs, including the BYD Sealion 7, BYD Seal, BYD Atto 3 Ultra, BYD M6, and BYD Dolphin. The initiative is designed to give users firsthand experience of EV driving, focusing on practicality, comfort, and performance. to further reinforce confidence in electric mobility.

“BYD Sime Motors is proud to be at the forefront of this initiative in leading Malaysia’s transition to electric mobility together with the Ministry of Transport. We remain focused on our goal of supporting the Ministry’s carbon emissions reduction efforts. Through this immersive experience, we hope to encourage greater adoption of electric vehicles, not only by the public but also within government mobility use,” said Jeffrey Gan, Managing Director, Southeast Asia, Sime Motors. BYD Sime Motors_Gentari_Ministry Of Transport Malaysia

The partnership goes beyond test drives. It marks a strategic initiative to integrate EVs into government operations. It also complements the broader National Energy Transition Roadmap, which targets the installation of 10,000 public EV chargers by 2025. Gentari, a key partner in this effort, currently operates over 530 charging points nationwide, contributing significantly to Malaysia’s EV infrastructure growth.

This joint effort underlines the vital role of public-private collaboration in building a more sustainable transport ecosystem, aligning with Malaysia’s low-carbon mobility goals. BYD M6_Jom Pandu BYD Bersama MOT

The Isuzu D-Max continues to solidify its standing as one of Malaysia’s top pickup trucks, chalking up a record 18.3% market share in the first quarter of 2025. This is a significant leap from the 14.0% share recorded in the same period last year, positioning the D-Max firmly as the No. 2 best-selling pickup truck in the country.

Despite a challenging environment for diesel vehicles, especially following the rationalization of diesel subsidies which saw a sharp increase in price at the pump in Peninsular Malaysia, demand for the D-Max remains strong. Isuzu Malaysia attributes this growth to the truck’s outstanding fuel efficiency, reliability, and low running costs.

Isuzu Malaysia_COO_Kenkichi Sogo“What we have clearly seen is a growing number of buyers who have discovered the merits of owning and driving an Isuzu D-Max. Not only do they purchase a versatile vehicle that has far-reaching capabilities for their daily use and leisure, the D-Max’s exceptionally low running cost, superior dependability and cheap road tax ensures that customers still come out with a winning hand,” said Isuzu Malaysia’s Chief Operating Officer, Kenkichi Sogo.

Strong Growth In Peninsular Malaysia

While East Malaysia remains a stronghold for the brand (where Isuzu commands a 28.4% market share in  Sabah), the company also saw sales in Peninsular Malaysia growing. Market share in this region climbed from 12.1% in 2024 to 17.1% in Q1 2025, reflecting an increasing acceptance of the D-Max.

Three D-Max variants lead overall sales, with all powered by the highly efficient 1.9L engine i.e. 1.9L 4×4 Auto Premium; 1.9L 4×4 Auto Standard; and 1.9L 4×2 Auto Plus.

These three variants accounted for 72.7% of total sales. Demonstrating the D-Max’s exceptional fuel efficiency, two of these models recently entered the Malaysian Book of Records for covering 2,004 km on a single tank of fuel. Isuzu D-Max_Auto Plus 4x2

Designed For Real-World Economies

Beyond impressive fuel savings, the D-Max appeals to cost-conscious consumers with:

  • Class-leading features

  • Contemporary design

  • Annual road tax under RM400 (for private use in Peninsular Malaysia)

  • A comprehensive 5-year warranty

As Malaysian drivers seek vehicles that help them navigate rising living costs, the Isuzu D-Max has emerged as a top contender in the pick-up segment, not just for work, but as an all-round daily driver.

For more information or to locate the nearest Isuzu showroom, visit pickuptruck.isuzu.net.my or follow Isuzu D-Max Malaysia on Facebook.

Chery has assigned the AiMOGA robot, its first humanoid AI assistant, into real-world operation at Auto Shanghai 2025. The AiMOGA robot made its public debut at Chery’s Intelligent Strategy Launch in its homeground of Wuhu in mid-March, where it greeted visitors, offered refreshments, introduced vehicle features, and assisted with test drive bookings.

A version of AiMOGA is also at work at the Chery Joystar 4S dealership in Glenmarie. This futuristic humanoid marks a milestone in Chery’s expansion from intelligent manufacturing to intelligent service, and signals the brand’s commitment to fusing innovation with customer experience, especially under its Omoda & Jaecoo sub-brands.

Chery International President Zhang Guibing explaining to Selangor Raja Muda about the AiMOGA robot at a recent event.
Chery International President Zhang Guibing explaining to Selangor Raja Muda about the AiMOGA robot at a recent event.

From Digital Character To Physical Assistant

The origins of AiMOGA can be traced back to “Mornine,” a digital avatar created by Chery to engage younger, tech-savvy customers through virtual platforms. Originally appearing in marketing for the Omoda C5, Mornine served as the virtual face of the brand. That is, until Chery’s engineers and designers decided to bring her into the physical world. Chery_Mornine_Avatar

That decision sparked the development of the AiMOGA robot, co-created with the AiMOGA team and built on the foundations of Chery’s automotive technology. The result is a humanoid robot capable of interacting with humans naturally and intelligently.

Advanced Capabilities Rooted In Automotive Technology

AiMOGA is more than just a machine. It incorporates advanced artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics technologies adapted from Chery’s experience in autonomous driving, smart perception, and electronic control. Equipped with a multimodal sensor system, AiMOGA can understand speech, gestures, and visual cues, allowing it to respond appropriately in dynamic showroom environments.

Its movement is supported by a bionic motion system and hardware that meet automotive standards for durability and precision. The robot also leverages deep learning models, such as Deepseek, to understand natural language and provide context-aware responses in real-time. Chery Aimoga Robot_Chery Showroom

Chery’s mature supply chain and engineering ecosystem enabled rapid development of the AiMOGA prototype, which completed its R&D in 2023 and underwent extensive public demonstrations in 2024. By early 2025, the robot began commercial duties in Malaysia, making it one of the first AI humanoids of its kind to be deployed in a customer-facing automotive role.

A Name With Meaning

The name “AiMOGA” draws from both Eastern philosophy and advanced AI theory. “Mo Jia” (墨甲) references Mozi, the ancient Chinese philosopher known for his scientific thinking, and “jia” symbolises armour, a nod to the robot’s futuristic exterior. In English, AiMOGA combines “AI” (artificial intelligence) with “MOGA” (multi-objective genetic algorithm), representing both its technical design and cultural inspiration.

What’s Next For AiMOGA?

The AiMOGA robot is at the 2025 Shanghai Auto Show, where it will support the Omoda & Jaecoo showcase of new models, including the Omoda C7 SHS and Jaecoo J5 BEV. It will also help introduce Chery’s latest super hybrid system, SHS, to visitors.

Looking ahead, Chery plans to deploy AiMOGA in a variety of public-facing environments, ranging from malls and cinemas to schools and care facilities. Designed to evolve with advancements in language, perception, and gesture control, AiMOGA is poised to become more than a showroom assistant. It represents Chery’s broader vision of “AI by your side”—a world where intelligent companions are a seamless part of everyday life. Chery Aimoga Robot

Chery has debuted its Chery Life concept at Auto Shanghai 2025. This is an immersive next-generation exhibition showcasing the brand’s vision of smart, sustainable mobility fused with lifestyle-centric innovation.

Moving beyond the conventional notion of cars as just transportation tools, Chery Life illustrates how vehicles are evolving into intelligent, interactive spaces that cater to modern family lifestyles. From breakthroughs in hybrid technology to AI-powered experiences, Chery delivers its view of what life-on-wheels will look like in the near future.

Chery Super Hybrid: A Leap In Efficiency And Performance

At the heart of the showcase is Chery Super Hybrid (CSH), the company’s proprietary hybrid platform that combines cutting-edge engineering with real-world versatility. Developed through over 20 years of research and technological iteration, and backed by a global R&D ecosystem comprising 8 innovation centres and 30,000 professionals in over 300 laboratories, CSH represents a significant step forward in hybrid technology.Chery Super Hybrid

CSH’s latest 5th-generation dedicated hybrid engine sets a new benchmark with a thermal efficiency of over 44.5%, placing it among the best in the world. Supporting technologies include:

  • Stepless Super Electric Hybrid DHT for smooth and powerful acceleration (0–100 km/h in just 4.26 seconds)

  • A robust high-performance battery system that operates in extreme temperatures ranging from -35°C to 60°C

  • Guardian Battery Safety Protection System offering layers of security and peace of mind especially during long-distance or high-load journeys.

These technologies work in unison to position CSH as a game-changing hybrid solution with performance, efficiency, and safety at its core.

Tigoo Lineup Leads The Charge

Auto Shanghai 2025 also marks the first full public showcase of Chery’s CSH-powered models. The hybrid range spans the popular Tiggo 7, Tiggo 8, and Tiggo 9 models, built to offer versatility for everyday needs, from urban commutes to family getaways.

Real-world reliability was proven during a 1,700 km endurance test conducted last October, where the Tiggo 9 PHEV and Arrizo 8 PHEV traversed a wide range of terrains – from Guangzhou’s bustling city streets to Mount Longhu’s steep elevation, and Poyang Lake’s wetlands. Participating Key Opinion Consumers (KOCs) had praised the vehicles for their driving dynamics, fuel economy, and overall comfort. Chery_Super Hybrid_Platform

Smart Lifestyle Solutions And Modular Living

Beyond the vehicle, Chery Life also has a strong focus on lifestyle integration. Visitors to the show can explore a full range of smart charging solutions, including home and card-based public charging options. The brand is also introducing a line of camping-ready accessories and modular layouts that convert the SUVs into mobile living hubs, perfect for both weekday routines and weekend adventures.

Inside the cabin, Chery’s next-gen intelligent cockpit showcases modular design and flexible space usage, allowing it to adapt seamlessly to various lifestyle scenarios.

AI Companions And Emotional Innovation

Chery’s innovation extends into the realm of artificial intelligence and robotics. Having delved into AI technology development for over a decade, Chery has developed its own interactive robots i.e. AiMOGA and a robotic pet. These digital companions greet visitors, perform dances, and even function as smart shopping assistants, delivering an engaging and personalized brand experience.

These emotionally engaging elements reflect Chery’s design philosophy: merging cutting-edge technology with warmth and user connection. These technologies will also see further integration into its vehicle systems.Chery Aimoga Robot

Chery’s Vision For The Future

Chery Life represents the company’s statement of intent. As Chery pushes forward with its ambition to become the world’s leading hybrid vehicle brand, it is simultaneously setting new standards for the role of vehicles in everyday life.

By combining sustainability, innovation, and lifestyle versatility, Chery wants to redefine what it means to live and move in the future. Chery Tiggo_Super Hybrid Technology

Cycle & Carriage (C&C) has officially expanded its representation of Stellantis brands with the opening of a 3S centre in George Town, Penang, now serving as the island’s exclusive dealer for Peugeot and Leapmotor. This newly upgraded facility enhances C&C’s presence in the northern region and introduces Leapmotor’s electric vehicles to the Penang market for the first time.

L-R: James Zhang, CFO, Cycle & Carriage; Nirmal Nair, CCO, Stellantis India & Asia Pacific; Thomas Tok, CEO, Cycle & Carriage; Ashwani Muppasani, COO, Stellantis India & Asia Pacific; Isaac Yeo, Managing Director, Stellantis ASEAN.
L-R: James Zhang, CFO, Cycle & Carriage; Nirmal Nair, CCO, Stellantis India & Asia Pacific; Thomas Tok, CEO, Cycle & Carriage; Ashwani Muppasani, COO, Stellantis India & Asia Pacific; Isaac Yeo, Managing Director, Stellantis ASEAN.

Occupying a historically significant UNESCO-listed building on Jalan Sultan Ahmad Shah, the Cycle & Carriage George Town outlet blends heritage architecture with modern automotive retail elements. With this launch, it becomes C&C’s 2nd Peugeot branch and its first Leapmotor outlet, underlining the company’s growing commitment to the Stellantis brand portfolio.

The 7,260-square-foot showroom features warm, welcoming ambience and accommodates up to 11 display vehicles. There is also a cosy lounge with refreshments, a dedicated delivery bay, and a high-tech 3D car configurator for an immersive customer experience. The adjoining 8,704-square-foot service centre has 5 work bays, parts and tools storage, car wash bays, and a detailing area—offering a full-fledged 3S (sales, service, and spare parts) experience for both brands.

“We are passionate about delivering a seamless premium customer experience while honouring the legacy of the spaces we operate in. Our Cycle & Carriage George Town branch reflects our vision of blending heritage charm with cutting-edge automotive excellence, offering customers greater choices in their automotive journey with us. With the representation of Stellantis brands like Peugeot and Leapmotor, we look forward to expanding our presence and providing top-tier service and an elevated ownership experience to the people in and around Penang,” said Thomas Tok, CEO of Cycle & Carriage.

Isaac Yeo, Managing Director of ASEAN, Stellantis, added: “The opening of this state-of-the-art Peugeot and Leapmotor outlet in the heart of George Town marks an exciting new chapter for our brands in Penang. This expansion, in partnership with Cycle & Carriage, reflects our shared commitment to delivering innovative mobility solutions and an exceptional customer experience. By bringing these brands closer to our customers, we are reinforcing our presence in Penang and setting the stage for continued growth and success together.”

To celebrate the opening, Cycle & Carriage is offering limited-time deals, including:

  • Peugeot 2008 from RM99,888

  • Savings up to RM30,000 for the Peugeot 3008

  • Savings up to RM31,200 for the Peugeot 408

  • Peugeot Landtrek pick-up truck from RM88,000

  • Leapmotor C10 EV with either RM15,000 savings, or 0% interest + free wall box charger

The Cycle & Carriage George Town showroom is open Monday to Saturday (8:30 AM – 7:00 PM) and Sunday (11:00 AM – 5:00 PM). The service centre operates Monday to Friday (8:00 AM – 5:00 PM) and Saturday (8:00 AM – 12:00 PM). Its address is 24, Jalan Sultan Ahmad Shah, 10050 George Town, Pulau Pinang.

For more details, visit peugeot.cyclecarriage.com.my or leapmotor.cyclecarriage.com.my, or reach out via WhatsApp (+6012-629 6590). 

Stellantis Malaysia and Public Bank have joined up to help accelerate electric vehicle (EV) adoption in Malaysia. Public Bank’s exclusive ‘Paint the Town Green’ campaign offers attractive financing packages for new EV buyers—particularly those interested in the Leapmotor C10.

This strategic partnership reflects both organisations’ shared commitment to promoting sustainable mobility. In 2024, Public Bank’s market share in the EV sphere reached 29.1%. This rose to 33.5% as of February 2025, signalling a growing demand for electric vehicles in Malaysia. Allure Auto Desa Park City Showroom_Leapmotor

To encourage even more Malaysians to embrace EV ownership, Public Bank is offering Preferential Interest Rates as low as 0.38% per annum for financing the all-electric Leapmotor C10, making it one of the most accessible EV financing options in the country.

The Leapmotor C10 is a premium electric SUV designed to deliver both style and substance. It features a 69.9 kWh Lithium-Iron Phosphate battery paired with a 214 hp electric motor, to offer a WLTP-rated driving range of up to 424 kilometres. A recipient of both the International CMF Design Award and French Design Award, the C10 also boasts a panoramic 2.1m² glass roof with retractable sunshade, a spacious interior, and a 5-star Euro NCAP safety rating. Additional safety and convenience features include Leap Pilot Level 2 advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS).

L-R: (L-R) Zhu Jiangming, CEO & Founder, Leapmotor;  Y.Bhg. Tan Sri Dato’ Sri Dr. Tay Ah Lek.
L-R: (L-R) Zhu Jiangming, CEO & Founder, Leapmotor; Y.Bhg. Tan Sri Dato’ Sri Dr. Tay Ah Lek.

Tan Sri Dato’ Sri Dr. Tay Ah Lek, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Public Bank, commented, “Public Bank is dedicated to driving Malaysia’s green transition by making EV ownership more accessible. Through our ‘Paint the Town Green’ campaign and partnership with Stellantis Malaysia, we aim to empower customers with competitive financing options while supporting the nation’s sustainable development goals.”

Isaac Yeo, Managing Director, ASEAN, Stellantis added that “We are pleased to collaborate with Public Bank on this strategic initiative to advance electric vehicle adoption in Malaysia. Through this partnership, the Leapmotor C10—equipped with intelligent features and advanced technology—becomes a more accessible and compelling option for Malaysian consumers. We are confident that this initiative will support the nation’s transition towards sustainable mobility while meeting the expectations of today’s discerning automotive customers.”Stellantis Malaysia & Public Bank_‘Paint the Town Green with EV Financing’_Leapmotor

This initiative aligns with Public Bank’s long-term sustainability goals, including its commitment to mobilise RM100 billion in sustainable financing by 2030. It also supports Malaysia’s broader agenda for a greener automotive future through enhanced EV accessibility and financial incentives.

The ‘Paint the Town Green with EV Financing’ campaign stands as a testament to both companies’ efforts to drive meaningful change in the local automotive ecosystem—one that’s increasingly leaning toward electrification and environmental responsibility.

MAN Truck & Bus has made an impression at Bauma 2025 with its comprehensive range of commercial vehicles tailored for the construction industry. From the lightweight 3.5-tonne MAN TGE all-wheel tipper to the TGX heavy-duty semitrailer truck capable for up to 180 tonnes gross train weight, MAN’s display at the world’s largest construction trade fair reflects its dedication to serving a wide range of applications in both electric and conventional forms.

At the centre of MAN’s exhibition was the new MAN eTGS 6×2-4 electric crane tipper chassis, underlining the company’s shift towards sustainable mobility without compromising on versatility and power. MAN_eTGS_Electric_Tipper Crane

Flexible, Durable And Application-Focused eTrucks

MAN’s next-generation electric truck lineup, comprising the eTGX and eTGS series, delivers exceptional modularity with up to a million potential configurations. Customers can specify battery count, cab types, wheelbases, power take-off options, suspension systems and more to suit varied construction tasks. With up to 544 hp and a maximum battery range of up to 740 km, MAN’s eTrucks are engineered to match the performance and durability expected of diesel models.

Battery life is another highlight, offering service life of up to 1.6 million kilometres or 15 years of usage, depending on application. Payload flexibility is also built in, with up to 2.4 tonnes additional capacity possible by reducing the number of batteries, a key advantage in short-haul construction operations. MAN_TGS_Heavy Crane

MAN Individual And Smart Integration Tools

Further personalisation is available through MAN Individual, offering options such as a 7th battery pack for the 6×2 chassis for a range up to 740 km, aerial work platform preparation, body-specific frame clearances, and Lion S design and comfort packages. These enhancements are accessible directly via MAN’s vehicle configurator.

To simplify integration with body equipment, MAN introduced MAN PAL, a new online tool that allows bodybuilders to parameterise, link, and programme vehicle and body functions, then transfer them to the truck over-the-air. This streamlines the vehicle body-building process, saving time and costs. MAN_TGM_4x4

New And Refreshed Vehicles Displayed

Among the key models on display at Bauma 2025:

  • MAN eTGS 28.449 6×2-4 BL CH – A fully electric tipper with a Palfinger crane and four battery packs delivering 320 kWh and up to 400 km range.

  • MAN TGS 35.540 8x2H-6 BL CH – A powerful diesel crane truck with HydroDrive for improved off-road traction, a 30-tonne crane and advanced safety integrations.

  • MAN TGX 33.640 6×4 BL SA – A 640 hp heavy-duty tractor designed for up to 180 tonnes gross train weight, ideal for long-haul or construction low-loader duties.

  • MAN TGS 41.480 8×4 BB CH – Built for mining, this rugged 8×4 configuration handles up to 50 tonnes and is paired with high-volume rear tipper bodies.

  • MAN TGM 18.320 4×4 BB CH – A compact and agile 18-tonne tipper with full all-wheel drive for versatile job site operation.

  • MAN TGE 3.200 4×4 BL – A refreshed light-duty van with 200 hp, air suspension, a three-way tipper, and off-road enhancements from MAN Individual. MAN_TGE_Van

MAN Engines: Power For Construction Machinery

In addition to trucks, MAN Engines displayed the D2862 V12 diesel engine built for high-performance construction and mining applications. Designed with integration in mind, it caters to machines with displacement needs between 20 and 30 litres, offering versatility for OEMs.

Supporting Services And eMobility Consulting

MAN complements its product offering with a suite of digital services, including MAN SimplePay, MAN Service Care, and MAN DigitalServices for fleet optimisation. For electric trucks, tools such as eManager M, SmartRoute, and Charge&Go ensure seamless charging and battery management.

The transition to electric mobility is further supported by MAN Transport Solutions, providing 360-degree consulting on fleet electrification, charging infrastructure planning, and partnerships with charging hardware providers.

“Decades of experience in the realisation of operational, reliable and durable vehicles for our customers in the construction industry and the continuous close exchange with body manufacturers are a central part of MAN’s DNA. This is the focus of our Bauma presentation and this application-orientation is also the core competence of our new eTrucks, which are in no way inferior to our diesel vehicles,” said Friedrich Baumann, Executive Board Member for Sales & Customer Solutions at MAN Truck & Bus SE. MAN_TGS_Heavy Transport

Stellantis and Leapmotor have announced the start of local assembly for Leapmotor electric vehicles (EVs) in Malaysia, marking a major milestone in their strategic collaboration. The local assembly will take place at Stellantis’ manufacturing facility in Gurun, Kedah, with production scheduled to begin by the end of 2025.

This move also marks Leapmotor’s first step into local manufacturing within ASEAN and is backed by an initial investment of EUR 5 million (approximately RM24 million). The initiative supports Stellantis’ wider goal of driving sustainable mobility across Southeast Asia, in line with its Dare Forward 2030 strategy, and strengthens the company’s presence in the India & Asia Pacific (IAP) region.Leapmotor C10_Rear_Tail Lights

Ashwani Muppasani, Chief Operating Officer of Stellantis India & Asia Pacific, said, “This milestone marks more than the start of local assembly—it marks the next chapter in Stellantis’ electrification journey across ASEAN. By combining Leapmotor’s EV innovation and success with Stellantis’ regional expertise and global scale, we are laying the foundation for an accessible, sustainable future of mobility right here in Malaysia and across Southeast Asia.”

The Gurun plant, which already plays a key role in Stellantis’ regional operations, will be further enhanced to accommodate EV production. Gurun’s strategic location and developed automotive ecosystem allow for efficient scaling and distribution throughout the ASEAN region, in line with Stellantis’ “Built in ASEAN for ASEAN” approach. Leapmotor C10

Isaac Yeo, Managing Director of Stellantis ASEAN, said, “The Gurun plant has become a cornerstone of Stellantis’ manufacturing presence in the region. We have proactively enhanced its capabilities to support EV assembly, and we are proud that Leapmotor will be the first locally assembled electric vehicle to emerge from this plant. This marks a meaningful step forward not just for Stellantis, but for Malaysia’s role in the regional EV landscape.”

The first model to be assembled locally will be the Leapmotor C10. This move aligns with Malaysia’s National Automotive Policy 2030 (NAP 2030) and the government’s broader ambitions during its ASEAN Chairmanship in 2025. The initiative is expected to contribute to technology transfer, spur industrial growth, and reinforce bilateral cooperation between Malaysia and China.

L-R: Xin Tianshu, CEO, Leapmotor International & COO, Stellantis China; Zhu Jiangming, CEO & Founder, Leapmotor; Ashwani Muppasani, COO, Stellantis India & Asia Pacific; Isaac Yeo, Managing Director, Stellantis ASEAN.
L-R: Xin Tianshu, CEO, Leapmotor International & COO, Stellantis China; Zhu Jiangming, CEO & Founder, Leapmotor; Ashwani Muppasani, COO, Stellantis India & Asia Pacific; Isaac Yeo, Managing Director, Stellantis ASEAN.

Leapmotor_Founder_Chairman_CEO_Zhu JiangmingZhu Jiangming, Founder, Chairman, and CEO of Leapmotor, added that, “The localized assembly project in Malaysia will accelerate Leapmotor’s global strategic expansion. We look forward to working with Stellantis Group to bring new technology and vitality to the transformation of Malaysia’s automotive industry, and to set a benchmark and model for opening up the entire Southeast Asian market for Leapmotor.”

Tianshu Xin, Chief Executive Officer of Leapmotor International, said, “Leapmotor International’s brand promise is ‘Excellence Within Reach.’ This is not just a slogan—it reflects Leapmotor’s commitment to offering consumers ‘technology for all, high quality at an affordable price.’ This collaboration also highlights the shared goal of Stellantis and Leapmotor to promote clean energy development in the local market.”

Following Leapmotor’s introduction to Malaysia in October 2024 and a successful launch in Thailand, the company is set to expand further into ASEAN markets. With Stellantis’ regional scale and Leapmotor’s competitive EV offerings, the collaboration is poised to meet growing demand for high-tech, affordable electric mobility in the region.

Additional details on product variants, pricing, and market rollout will be shared ahead of the production start.

Jaguar Land Rover Malaysia (JLRM) has officially introduced the Land Rover Defender V8 to the Malaysian market, bringing with it a fusion of raw power, cutting-edge engineering, and refined luxury. Available in 2 variants i.e. the Defender 110 V8 and Defender 130 V8, these new models elevate the Defender’s legendary off-road DNA with thrilling V8 performance and premium interior appointments.

This latest addition to the Defender family is designed for adventure-seekers and luxury SUV enthusiasts alike, with JLRM positioning the Defender V8 as a benchmark for all-terrain modern luxury.

Supercharged V8 Power Meets Heritage Design

At the core of both variants lies a 5.0L supercharged V8 engine tuned to deliver performance on and off the road. The Defender 110 V8 produces 525 PS and 625 Nm of torque, rocketing it from 0 to 100 km/h in just 5.4 seconds. Meanwhile, the longer Defender 130 V8 delivers 500 PS and 610 Nm, and has a 0-100 km/h sprint time of 5.7 secondsLand Rover_5.0L V8 Supercharged Engine

Both models are equipped with quad outboard-mounted exhausts, emitting a signature V8 growl that adds character to the drive. The distinct exhaust note, coupled with the Defender’s bold stance, makes the V8 variant stand out while maintaining the rugged appeal of its heritage.

Interior Luxury And Practical Versatility

Inside, the Defender V8 continues with a blend of luxury and utility. The Defender 110 V8 offers 40:20:40 heated rear seats with a split-folding layout and a centre armrest, ideal for balancing passenger comfort with cargo flexibility.

Meanwhile, the Defender 130 V8 is tailored for larger families or adventurous groups with 60:40 rear seats that slide and recline manually. It also features 40:20:40 folding seats and a 3rd-row layout, offering seating for up to 8 passengers without compromising on luggage space.

Driving Vision

Jeffrey Gan, Managing Director of Southeast Asia at Sime Motors, stated: “The Defender V8 represents the peak of Defender’s engineering prowess, combining exceptional performance with the hallmark luxury and capability inherent to the Defender lineage. Designed to meet the standards of the highest quality in all aspects, it encapsulates the Sime Motors drive to deliver an outstanding customer experience to Malaysians. We are pleased to launch this exceptional vehicle to those who value automotive excellence and uncompromising performance.”

Syed Ahmad Muzri Syed Faiz, Managing Director of Inokom & Distribution Malaysia, added: “This launch underscores our commitment to delivering world-class and luxury automotive experiences to our customers. The supercharged V8 engine delivers a commanding driving experience, while the curated interior and adaptable design provide both comfort and versatility across diverse terrains. With its powerful V8 engines, luxurious interiors, and advanced features, the Defender V8 is set to redefine the standards of luxury SUVs on our roads.”

Pricing And Availability

The Defender V8 is now available for order in Malaysia with duty-free pricing starting at RM998,000 for the Defender 110 V8, and RM1.198 million for the Defender 130 V8. For duty-paid pricing and tailored quotations, you can contact the Jaguar Land Rover Malaysia showroom at Ara Damansara via +603-7651 2000.

More information is available at the official Land Rover Malaysia website: www.landrover.com.my Land Rover Defender 110_V8 Badge_Wheel

Honda Malaysia has officially opened online bookings for its first Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV) i.e. the Honda e:N1, ahead of its official launch scheduled for the 2nd quarter of 2025. This marks a major milestone in the company’s electrification journey, as it prepares to offer Malaysian consumers a practical and stylish all-electric SUV built on Honda’s new e:N Architecture F platform.

Honda claims the e:N1 brings Honda’s core values of joy, innovation, and everyday usability, and represents the brand’s first step towards a broader BEV presence in Malaysia. Honda eN1_EV

A New Era Of Electric Mobility

Developed under Honda’s human-centric approach, the e:N1 is designed to deliver smooth acceleration, intuitive handling, and a comfortable driving experience. It is powered by a 68.8 kWh lithium-ion battery paired with a high-performance electric motor, producing 150 kW and 310 Nm of torque. With a driving range of up to 500 km (NEDC), the e:N1 is suited for daily commutes as well as long-distance travel.

Built on the all-new e:N Architecture F, a front-wheel-drive platform engineered specifically for Honda EVs,  the e:N1 features a rigid body structure and finely tuned chassis for confident, responsive driving across various conditions.

Designed With Signature Honda Touch

The e:N1’s clean and aerodynamic styling is highlighted by LED Headlights, an LED taillight strip, and hidden front charging ports that support both AC charging and DC fast charging. A charging indicator positioned above the grille allows for quick status checks.

Riding on distinct 18″ dual-tone alloy wheels exclusive to Honda’s BEV line-up, the e:N1 also features Honda’s signature white “H” badge specifically for its electrified vehicles. These are also applied to key touchpoints such as the key fob, steering wheel, front charge lid, and centre caps. The rear of the vehicle carries a new spread-letter “Honda” emblem.

In terms of size, the e:N1 measures 4,380 mm in length, has a wheelbase of 2,610 mm. It stands at 1,592 mm tall, positioning it within the compact SUV segment.

Advanced Safety With Honda SENSING

Safety remains a top priority, and the e:N1 is no exception. It comes equipped with Honda’s advanced safety technologies including Blind Spot Information (BSI), Cross Traffic Monitor (CTM), and the full Honda SENSING suite comprising 9 active safety features designed to provide added peace of mind behind the wheel.

Nationwide Dealership Support

To support the launch of the e:N1, Honda Malaysia has appointed 8 authorised dealerships across the Central, Northern, and Southern regions to handle customer enquiries and provide dedicated BEV support. The selected dealers are:

Central Region

  • Accord Auto Sdn Bhd (Selangor)

  • HZN Cars Sdn Bhd (Selangor)

  • Peringgit Sri Motor Sdn Bhd (Kuala Lumpur)

  • Tiong Nam Motor (M) Sdn Bhd (Selangor)

Northern Region

  • Ban Hoe Seng Auto Sdn Bhd (Perak)

  • Vivahill Auto Sdn Bhd (Penang)

Southern Region

  • Ban Lee Heng Motor Sdn Bhd (Negeri Sembilan)

  • Kah Motor Co. Sdn Bhd (Tebrau, Johor)

Booking Is Open

Those interested in being among the first to own Honda’s debut BEV can place their bookings online at https://prebook.honda.com.my or via the HondaTouch app. Additional information is also available at www.honda.com.my, or through the Honda toll-free line (1-800-88-2020).

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