Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia (MMM), is starting its Merdeka and Malaysia Day promotions for its range of Mitsubishi vehicles. This promotion will be on until 30 September 2019.
During this promotion period, if you book and register a new Mitsubishi Triton VGT Adventure X, Triton VGT AT Premium or Triton VGT MT Premium, you can choose to either enjoy the lowest interest rate of up to 0.88%, exclusively with Maybank hire purchase only, OR receive the following cash rebates:
Further, the Triton VGT Adventure X now comes with a new and stylish Flying Sports Bar, without additional price increase. The Triton also recently won ‘Pick-up trucks of Malaysia’ at the Cars of Malaysia Awards 2019.
Meanwhile, the seven-seater Mitsubishi Outlander 2.0L and 2.4L will be offered with cash rebates up to RM6,000 and RM4,000 respectively. The Outlander 2.0L is priced at RM137,888 while the Outlander 2.4L is priced at RM152,888.
As a family-oriented SUV, the Outlander comes with 4WD, seven SRS airbags, ABS with EBD, Brake Assist, Active Stability & Traction Control (ASTC), Hill Start Assist (HSA) and ISOFIX child seat mounts as standard.
Further, the Mitsubishi ASX Compact SUV 4WD and 2WD is offered with cash rebates up to RM12,000 and RM8,000 respectively. The ASX 4WD is priced at RM133,336 while the ASX 2WD is priced at RM118,866.
The Outlander and ASX come with five years warranty on unlimited mileage.
All prices quoted are on the road without insurance, for private registration in Pen. Malaysia.
More details on the promotions can be found in MMM’s website.
L-R: Shahid Ahmed, Chevron Malaysia Limited country manager; Natasha Chang; Hans Isaac and Greg Engeler.
Doi Chang mountain in Thailand is known for its coffee plantations and hiking trails, and now it is home to a Guinness world record. The record run attempt is part of Caltex’s Fuel Power Challenge and is documented in the two-part National Geographic series, Record Rides.
The record run up the narrow and winding road of Doi Chang was attempted by Natasha Chang, a professional race car driver of Puerto Rican-Chinese descent, and KC Montero, a television host. Natasha drove a stripped down naturally aspirated 28-year-old Honda Civic EG hatchback, modified with lightweight performance parts. while KC drove an equally old modified Toyota Corolla KE saloon that is turbocharged. Both cars were powered by Caltex petrol.
KC’s attempt up the mountain clocked in at just over seven minutes, well under the ten minute time target. It would be his only attempt due to a gearbox issue after the first run. But it was Natasha’s final run which surpassed KC’s time to set the record for the Fastest Ascent of Doi Chang Mountain Road by Car. She clocked six minutes and 52.692 seconds.
“I knew from the get-go that this journey was going to be filled with challenges, however, I was determined to validate the notion that fuel is one of the most important aspects of a car thus, the right fuel can only maximise your vehicle’s potential. With Caltex with Techron, the performance of the car we built from scratch for the attempt on a seemingly impossible timeline only got better which resulted in us breaking new ground in fuel innovation,” said Natasha Chang.
“Caltex with Techron is specially formulated to clean and protect engines. The Guinness World Records title achievement helps demonstrate how a clean engine powered by Techron can function at its optimum, which includes delivering maximum power to your wheels. This is the same fuel that our customers can experience at their neighbourhood Caltex stations to power their everyday drive,” said Greg Engeler, Product Engineering Manager for Caltex.
Techron’s unique chemistry is proven to remove and protect an engine from deposits in the intake valves and port fuel injectors, allowing the engine to perform at an optimum level. The Clean and Glide Technology in the Techron additive also helps reduce friction to help maximise power.
Local personality, Dato’ Hans Isaac, who is also Celebrity Partner of Caltex Malaysia said he is proud to be associated with a global brand like Caltex. Inspired by the Doi Chang challenge, he will be taking on a local challenge.
“As someone who thrives on challenging myself to go further, this feat achieved by Caltex inspired me to push the limits of Caltex with Techron myself, on Malaysian roads. That’s how I’ve decided to go on a challenge to further prove the efficiency of Caltex with Techron. With only one tank of this innovative fuel, my friend Man, and I, will attempt to drive up Cameron Highlands in our national car, the 1985 Proton Saga. I guess you will have to stay tuned to find out if we succeed or not,” he added.
L-R: Perodua Chairman Tan Sri Asmat Kamaludin; Selangor Department of Environment Director Tuan Haji Shafe’ee Yasin (on behalf of Malaysian Department of Environment Director-General Dato’ Dr Ahmad Kamarulnajuib Che Ibrahim); Perodua President and CEO Dato' Zainal Abidin Ahmad and Perodua Auto Corporation Sdn Bhd Vice-President Datuk Ahmad Suhaimi Hashim at the launch of the garden.
Having a portfolio of EEV (Energy Efficient Vehicle) certified car models and being the biggest seller of EEVs isn’t enough, according to Perodua. This thinking is what led to the establishment of environmentally-sustainable practices in the company. The Perodua ECO Garden is the automaker’s green initiative that was announced in 2017 and was recently launched. Situated within Perodua’s 400-acre campus that houses its headquarters, R&D, manufacturing and training facilities, as well as a children’s daycare centre, the ECO Garden is a 1,500 square metre garden first mooted by Mr. Masanori Takahashi, President of Perodua Auto Corporation Sdn Bhd.
The ECO Garden is the company’s initiative to incorporate green practices in its facilities and operations. “As a company that operates in an energy- and resource-dependent industry, Perodua wants to change how its products and operations impact the world around us,” Perodua Chairman Tan Sri Asmat Kamaludin said.
“We want to prove that we deeply care for the environment and are constantly looking to make our processes and products more ecologically sustainable,” he added.
The eco-friendly garden features a natural forest with a diverse range of trees and plants, a fish and water lily pond that makes use of treated wastewater, a recreational park, a learning centre as well as an organic herb garden. The garden is also constructed largely from recycled manufacturing waste materials, with the lighting and water pumps powered exclusively by solar.
“Waste reduction is a key component in the quest for efficiency, which is Perodua’s perpetual goal and which is not limited to our Energy-Efficient Vehicles (EEV). We always strive to ensure every aspect of our operations is as lean, clean and green as it can be,” Tan Sri Asmat continued.
In its effort to use more sustainable energy sources and be more eco-friendly, Perodua has installed solar panels and rainwater-harvesting systems in several buildings. Its new staff locker room facility, named Lemari, also makes use of a green wall for natural insulation. Further, a one megawatt solar panel at its test track is expected to be ready soon.
“We hope our initiatives will also inspire our employees, the industry and the Malaysian public to continuously pursue a more sustainable and environmentally-friendly way of life. Together, I’m certain we can all make a difference,” said Tan Sri Asmat.
Perodua is Malaysia’s No 1 Energy-Efficient Vehicle (EEV) manufacturer, having produced and sold over 650,000 EEVs to date, including the Axia, Bezza, third-generation Myvi and Aruz seven-seater SUV.
KUALA LUMPUR, 4 July 2019 – Over a period of ten days, from 30 May to 8 June, Shell Malaysia has raised a total of RM1.92 million in its fifth ‘Anda Beli, Kami Derma’ Raya Charity Campaign.
During the ten days, Shell had pledged to donate 1 sen for every litre of Shell fuel pumped and 1 sen for every RM1 spent at Shell SELECT stores to the National Cancer Society Malaysia, Food Aid Foundation, and Malaysian Nature Society.
2019 is also the second consecutive year that Shell’s partner, Mastercard, joined this effort. Mastercard contributed 1 sen to the Food Aid Foundation for every litre of Shell fuel pumped and every RM1 spent at Shell SELECT stores paid for with any Mastercard credit or debit cards.
Motorists were also given the option to donate to the organisation of their choice this year. Additionally, Shell’s agencies and partners came together to support this initiative through contributions in the form of media advertising and resources.
Shairan Huzani Husain, Managing Director of Shell Malaysia Trading Sdn Bhd and Shell Timur Sdn Bhd applauded the collection this year and shared, “We are once again humbled by the generosity and support of our Malaysian motorists, in helping us raise a total of RM1.92mil for the organisations in just 10 days. We wish to thank all our customers and partners for contributing to this cause. In line with our mission to make life’s journeys better for all Malaysians, we hope this initiative will continue to inspire others to extend a helping hand for those who are in need.”
Perry Ong, Country Manager of Malaysia and Brunei, Mastercard said, “This partnership has been instrumental in encouraging Malaysians to use cashless payments for their everyday purchases, while at the same time, give back to the community and impact the lives of the less privileged. Contributions made through this campaign will support local causes, including the provision of meals for children in need. Driven by its philosophy of ‘doing well by doing good’, Mastercard is committed to collaborating with partners like Shell who share the same philosophy.”
The continuous support and generosity of Malaysian motorists has encouraged Shell to run this campaign annually to spread the spirit of caring and sharing and to create a positive impact on more lives. The funds collected from this year’s ‘Anda Beli, Kami Derma’ campaign will go towards supporting the organisations’ efforts in building a brighter future for the communities they serve.
Mercedes-Benz Malaysia Training Academy recently celebrated the graduation of 30 trainees from its Advanced Modern Apprenticeship Programme. This graduating class are globally certified technicians who will have career opportunities within Mercedes-Benz’s network in Malaysia. Thus far, over 850 apprentices have graduated from the Apprentice Training Centre (ATC), which was set up in 1984.
The Apprentice Training Centre is a 55,000 sq ft facility, staffed by 13 certified and dedicated trainers. The training facility is equipped with state-of-the-art training equipment, purpose-built classrooms and workshops that emulate real-life after-sales centres.
“Our state-of-the-art, purpose built Training Academy aims to continuously nurture talent and provide Malaysian youths with a pathway to advance their career through job placement opportunities. Today, we contribute towards the nation’s demand for highly skilled talent in the automotive industry with the graduation of another 30 apprentices. This marks a significant milestone in our quest to build a solid foundation of the network and deliver the Best Customer Experience throughout the Mercedes-Benz extensive dealers in Malaysia,” said MBM’s President and CEO, Dr Claus Weidner.
The graduates received three certifications i.e. the Mercedes-Benz Automotive Mechatronic Training Certificate, Mercedes-Benz Qualified Maintenance Technician Certificate and National Dual Training System Certificate. The National Dual Training System Certificate is equivalent to the Malaysian Skills Certificate Level 3 (SKM 3), a certification recognized by the Department of Skills Development under the Ministry of Human Resources, Malaysia.
The apprenticeship programme covers a wide-range of essential, life-long skills including presentation, analysis, decision making, strategic thinking, mentoring, self-discipline and most importantly, teamwork. Trainers are also rigorously assessed and certified according to international standards set by Daimler AG. Based on the guidelines set by them, the training academy maintains a trainee ratio of one trainer to 15 trainees to ensure optimum quality in the delivery of its modules.
L-R: Valedictorian Tan Wei Chee received the Mercedes-Benz Training Academy Class of 2019 Best Student Award from Jeffrey Simon; and Vocational Training Manager, Low Woon Fung.
Vice-President for Customer Services, MBM, Jeffrey Simon added, “The response the programme since has been great year on year and we have received close to 600 applications this year; the most to date. It is in our best interest to recognize, mould and empower local youths as they embark on their journey in the automotive industry. Upon completion of their three-year training programme, they will be offered a four-year guaranteed employment, starting off as a Passenger Car Technician.”
The training programme consists of 48 courses over a three-year training period, and is based on a curriculum comprising 70% practical training (including 30% on-the-job training); and 30% theory.
As a prerequisite to acceptance into the training programme, interested candidates have to undergo a strict selection process which involves a pre-enrolment assessment examination by Daimler AG. Candidates then have to attend a face-to-face interview by the Recruitment Panel which gives the final approval to candidates who qualify to enrol in the training programme.
In addition to the Automotive Mechatronic training programme, the ATC also provides a structured certification ladder for existing technicians who want to upgrade their skills and knowledge.
Ferrari will host Universo Ferrari this September, the first-ever exhition dedicated to the world of Ferrari that will also include public viewing days.
Taking place in its hometown of Maranello, Italy, Ferrari will open this possibility up to fans and enthusiasts of the marque for the first time. Situated in a structure constructed specifically for this event near the Ferrari factory, Universo Ferrari will feature areas covering all aspects of the company’s activities, from classic cars to racing, as well as the current model line-up.
There will be the chance for visitors to take a closer look at the SF90 Stradale – Ferrari’s new series-production hybrid supercar – on its European premiere.
At the same time, the Prancing Horse’s stable will be open to its international clientele for private viewings of its latest models.
More information on the event and how to participate will be made available shortly on www.ferrari.com
In June 2019, Proton recorded sales of 7,615 vehicles, its second highest sales figure this year apart from May, giving the brand its highest market share figure in 47 months. Its share of the Malaysia automotive market is 18.1%, its highest since July 2015.
This came on the back of a 30.8% decline in Total Industry Volume (TIV) to 42,090 units; not unusual for a month following a festive period (Hari Raya). Additionally, June 2018 was also the first month of the three-month GST tax holiday period which helped drive up sales of cars in 2018 thus making it difficult for most automotive brands to post positive year-on-year sales growth.
However, this was not the case with Proton as the company recorded a 23% year-on-year growth in June 2019, helping it take second spot in the sales table for the third consecutive month. It also contributed to an overall sales growth of 61% for the first six months of 2019, putting the company on track to achieve its sales targets for the year.
The primary contributor to Proton’s sales growth is still the X70, which contributed 15,175 units to the brand’s sales in the first half of 2019, making it the cumulative sales leader for the overall SUV segment. Sales of the Proton Saga continue to grow, with 2,541 cars delivered in June. The Persona, Iriz and Exora were recently updated and have recorded an increase of 108%, 180% and 135% respectively compared to their pre-update booking numbers. The Saga is due for an updated version which will be launched soon.
“By achieving a market share of 18.1% in June, PROTON continues to show positive sales growth this year despite the tough market conditions following the Hari Raya holidays. Our year to date market share currently stands at 14.7% and is a big improvement of our 2018 figure of 10.8%. For the second half of the year, we will concentrate on continuing to build our sales and exciting the market further by introducing new and updated models as was promised at the beginning of the year,” said Dr Li Chunrong, Chief Executive Officer of Proton.
To continue its push for growth, Proton is also bolstering its dealership network. As at the end of June 2019, Proton has 91 3S / 4S outlets, the most of any automotive brand in Malaysia. “Our strategy to grow our presence by increasing the number of 3S/4S outlets in our network is to ensure we deliver a premium brand experience to as many of our customers as possible. Our network development team is working hard to also raise our service levels and hopefully these improvements will have a positive impact on our SSI and CSI scores,” added Dr Li Chunrong.
Rawang, 2 July – Perodua is aware of the existence of imitation Perodua parts and products in the market and has taken the initiative to engage with the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs (KPDNHEP) to curb the the growth of imitation products and parts in the market.
According to Perodua Sales Sdn Bhd Managing Director, Dato’ Dr Zahari Husin, these imitation / non-genuine parts include lubricants, filters, brake pads and shock absorbers and are almost indistinguishable from the originals. “This is very alarming as they are critical items. Customers may be misled into buying and using such items, which have not been tested by Perodua, on their vehicles. Besides voiding warranties, this could greatly jeopardise the safety and running condition of their vehicles,” he said.
At the session with KPDNHEP, Perodua, together with select service dealers and stockists, delivered a comprehensive briefing to some 120 enforcement officers from them ministry, acquainting them with Perodua’s range of products and parts, where they are sold, the logistics flow and how to tell real and fake items apart.
“Our gratitude goes to KPDNHEP, Tuan Suhaimi Mat Sari (Deputy Director of Enforcement (Prevention)) and the enforcement officers for participating in our humble initiative. We hope that the engagement session was informative and insightful, and that it will help them in their duties to identify, pinpoint and put the brakes on counterfeit Perodua products and parts in the market,” said Dato’ Dr Zahari.
Perodua owners are urged to not be tempted by unscrupulous traders selling imitation Perodua products as the genuine ones are fairly priced, and most importantly, have gone through the proper manufacturing, testing and quality control processes.
The genuine products and parts can be purchased from any authorised Perodua stockist or any of the 179 authorised Perodua service centres nationwide.
“As an alternative, we have the ProGanti range of parts that’s easier on the wallet but still tested and approved by Perodua. We truly care for you and your car. It is part of the Perodua Experience, which is a testament to our dedication and commitment to always exceed your expectations and retain your loyalty,” Dato’ Dr Zahari added.
The Malaysia Automotive Robotics and IoT Institute (MARii) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) with the aim of strengthening, promoting and developing academic, cultural and research cooperation.
Signed by MARii Chief Executive Officer, Dato’ Ts. Madani Sahari and UiTM Vice-Chancellor, Emeritus Professor Ir. Dr. Mohd Azraai Kassim, the MoU will see both parties promoting participation in transforming the Malaysian industry into a globally competitive sector, particularly in the case of human capital development and applications of technology to meet industry demands.
“The upcoming review of the National Automotive Policy will look into new technologies in areas of Next Generation Vehicles, Mobility as a Service (Maas) and Industry 4.0 implementation within the industry”, said Dato Madani Sahari.
“Malaysia is aggressively promoting the development of future technologies in the automotive, transportation and overall Mobility sectors. Therefore, UiTM’s capabilities will add a new dimension to MARii’s expert and facilities pool to deliver the needed capacities to drive the Connected Mobility agenda”, he added.
Prof Azraai commented, “This MoU will open more collaboration opportunities that will not only lead towards establishing the first UiTM–MARii Satellite Node, but more importantly, the country’s very first MARii Satellite in a university and it will be located at the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering UiTM”.
He added, “These industry connections and partnerships are essential in ensuring that UiTM’s research and innovations remain impactful and are commercially viable to the industry and community. The solutions we produce must be of practical use to resolve relevant concerns”.
In 2015, MARii (previously known as Malaysia Automotive Institute a.k.a. MAI) and UiTM collaborated to enhance the talent of more than 1,000 Bumiputera engineering students through the Industry Led Automotive Graduate Apprenticeship Programme, Automotive Engineering Certificate Engineering (AICE), as well as industry-linked internships and final year projects with automotive companies.
Both parties have also worked together in projects such as the Ecophoton Solar Car, technology displays at the Malaysia Autoshow, and have recently started development of styling and engineering design programmes for the furniture industry as well as the upcoming International Conference on Advances in Mechanical Engineering (ICAME) through MARii’s Satellite in Sabah.
The signing of this new MoU will enable both parties to further collaborate on enhancing the automotive and overall mobility industry, including:
industrial partnership programmes through consultancy projects in automotive, robotics and Internet of Things
establishment of teaching-factory partnerships through shared industrial space and the offering of automotive, robotics and Internet of Things as elective subjects to UiTM students
develop post graduate programmes in line with Industry4WRD through MARii’s centres of excellence such as the MARii Design Center, MARii Academy of Technology and the National Emission Test Center (NETC)
The all-new DS 7 Crossback SUV has been launched in Malaysia. DS Automobiles is part of French automaker, Groupe PSA, and is a premium offshoot of the Citroën brand. The DS 7 Crossback is priced at RM199,888 on-the-road without insurance and comes with 5 Years Peace Of Mind warranty (or 120,000 km, whichever comes first); 5 Years 24-hour Roadside Assistance and exclusive access to SkyLounge by NAZA at Subang Skypark.
In conjunction with the launch of the DS 7, sole distributor Naza Euro Motors Sdn Bhd also launched the exclusive “DS Only You” programme which is a collection of services influenced by luxury brands, for customers to enjoy a unique DS experience.
The DS Only You programme includes:
DS At Your Service – A multi-channel gateway to respond to customer questions and offer seamless interactive service.
DS Assistance – 24/7 roadside assistance for accidents, tyre puncture, loss of car keys, and other similar incidents.
DS Valet – Local collection/delivery of customer’s DS for maintenance requirements.
Club DS Privilege – Exclusive access to the SkyLounge by Naza located at the Subang SkyPark Terminal.
MyDS App – An app to allow customers to connect with their DS vehicle to track all the necessary journey information.
L-R: En Yasser Awan, CEO Naza Euro Motors Sdn Bhd; Dato Nik Hamdam Nik Hassan, Deputy Group CEO, Automotive Group, Naza Corporation Holdings Sdn Bhd; Laurence Noël, Head of ASEAN & CEO of Naza Automotive Manufacturing, Groupe PSA; Mr Jean Christophe Calandot, Head of Sales & Marketing ASEAN Operations, Groupe PSA.
SM Nasarudin SM Nasimuddin, Group Executive Chairman & CEO, Naza Corporation Holdings Sdn Bhd said, “Designed to be charismatic, muscular and sensual, the All-New DS 7 Crossback demonstrates personality instantly with its elegant touches that is sure to turn heads on the road. The All-New DS 7 Crossback SUV is a premium SUV that comes with a competitive price without compromising the experience of the DS brand.”
“The All-New DS 7 Crossback SUV is a model we have been anticipating to introduce in Malaysia. Its arrival signifies a new milestone for the DS brand in Malaysia, having come a long way since first stepping foot in Malaysıa in 2013. To meet demands for DS vehicles here, a flagship DS Store stands resolute in Petaling Jaya, the first in Southeast Asia to meet individual expectations of its discerning clientele.”
“Malaysians with a taste for premium SUV will find that the DS 7 Crossback SUV meets their every need, and we are confident in making an impact in the premium C-segment SUV market with the entry of DS’s proudest thoroughbred from a brand known worldwide for its exclusive and outstanding products and services,” he added.
The DS 7 Crossback comes in Performance Line trim, as clued by the DS Performance Line badge above the grille. On the inside, the Performance Line trim has a ‘Basalt Black’ grained Alcantara interior with Carmine/Gold top stitching, aluminium pedals and leather steering wheel. Further, the toggle switches on the chrome-finished central console feature a ‘Clous de Paris’ guilloche trim finish, while an exclusive animated watch in partnership with B.R.M Chronographs, the B.R.M R180, sits on the dashboard for a touch of elegance.
You will also get the distinctive DS LOUNGE which consists of a top-of-the-range FOCAL Electra® Hi-Fi audio system, with 14 speaker drivers positioned around the passenger compartment. Other features inside include an 8″ central touchscreen that manages the multimedia interface, the entire DS CONNECT offer, wireless charging, and Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and Mirrorlink connectivity, as well as a 12.3″ screen dedicated to the digital instrument cluster with option for personalisation.
Other notable features include:
DS ACTIVE LED VISION system which adapts in width and range to the road conditions and vehicle speed with five lighting modes – Town Beam, Country Beam, Motorway Beam, Adverse Weather and High Beam.
DS 3D Full LED rear lights that are finished with 3D scale effect and textured black finish on the textured black rear trim.
Providing power for the DS 7 Crossback SUV is an efficient, high-torque 1.6L THP four-cylinder turbocharged engine which produces 165 hp @ 6,000 rpm and 240 Nm of torque from 1,400 rpm. This power is sent to the front wheels by a six-speed automatic transmission (EAT6). Official top speed is 220 km/h. The DS 7 Crossback SUV also features a new Electric Impulse Auto Gear Control with Paddle Shift for a thrilling drive.
Safety-wise, the DS 7 Crossback has a five-star EuroNCAP rating and is equipped with Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Stability Program (ESP), Emergency Brake Assist (EBS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Emergency Brake Assist (EBA), Anti-skid Regulation (ASR), Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), Driver Attention Warning, six airbags, ISOFIX anchor points and passenger detection system.
Exterior colour options are Nera Black, Pearl White, Absolute Red and Platinum Grey.
You can check out the DS 7 Crossback at the new DS Store in Section 51A, Petaling Jaya, which is the first of its kind in Malaysia that offers a distinctive approach to customer experience for French know-how and high-end products.