CLOSE
Page 266

by -

Denza Concept X_NEVThe Denza Concept X has made its debut at the 2019 Shenzhen, Hong Kong, Macau International Auto Show and is slated for deliveries in early 2020. That makes it less than a year from now, when the concept vehicle has just been shown. How is this possible?

Denza, for those who don’t know, is a brand jointly developed by two automotive powerhouses – Daimler AG and BYD. Both are established automotive brands and very much involved in electric vehicles. Yes, the Denza is an EV. Or as these companies would like to call it – an NEV (New Energy Vehicle).

Denza Concept X_FrontWe had briefly mentioned the Denza brand when we covered Geely’s purchase of a stake in Daimler. Denza is China’s first new energy automotive brand developed via a joint venture by two large automotive groups. Daimler is no stranger on the global stage, with its Mercedes-Benz brand as well as its foray into electrification. BYD too has grown from just another China automaker doing copy+paste jobs to one that is churning out petrol-powered and electric cars, buses, trucks and vans for the domestic market. It is a major manufacturer for automotive and phone batteries and counts Warren Buffet’s Berkshire Hathaway as a major shareholder of its Hong Kong-listed BYD Co.

Denza Concept X_Styled By Mercedes-BenzThe Denza Concept X is a seven-seater SUV designed by Mercedes-Benz. According to Gorden Wagener, chief design officer at Daimler AG, about 90% of the Concept X design will make it into the production model. There are supposed to be two variants available – a plug-in hybrid and a fully electric model capable of 500 km travel. 0 – 100 km/h acceleration is expected to be in the 5-seconds region. We presume that the production Denza model will import parts from the Mercedes-Benz EQC.

Mercedes-Benz EQC EV
Mercedes-Benz EQC EV

The China government has been favouring electrification to combat pollution in its cities as well as to reduce its reliance on oil imports. And with a population of 1.4 billion, it is an attractive market to enter for any brand pushing for EVs. An earlier study estimates that 46% of all cars in China will be electric by 2040. And that is approximately 176 million cars.

For Daimler, this is an opportunity to target different market segments – the premium market with its Mercedes-Benz brand, and the mass market with Denza, giving it better economies of scale. From reports, the Denza will be marketed and sold by Beijing Mercedes-Benz Sales Service Co., Ltd.

Gallery:

by -

As Cycle & Carriage Bintang Berhad continues with its celebrations of its 120 years in business, it is reaffirming its commitment to the Mercedes-Benz brand and its customers.

Mercedes-Benz Cycle & Carriage Bintang Cheras AutohausWith an illustrious history in Malaysia, Cycle & Carriage has been serving generations of Mercedes-Benz enthusiasts. “As we reflect on our journey over the last 120 years, a key factor that continues to drive Cycle & Carriage forward is our philosophy of constantly looking at new ways to engage our customers with exceptional service and events such as tonight’s dinner, and it is a privilege for me to join our customers in this special occasion of breaking fast” said Cycle & Carriage CEO, Wilfrid Foo, at a recent Buka Puasa and Hari Raya dinner hosted by the company.

Cycle & Carriage Bintang Bhd_Wilfrid Foo, CEO_MalaysiaIn its effort to continue providing the best-in-class experience in premium retail and after-sales care, Foo reaffirmed the Group’s commitment to investing in its sites, systems and people. “We are currently upgrading our Mutiara Damansara, Johor Bahru, Ipoh and Alor Setar Autohauses to showcase Mercedes-Benz’s new concept which combines beautiful architecture with an immersive digital experience. This is one of the many ways in which we embrace technology to bring the latest Mercedes-Benz experience to all our customers,” Foo revealed.

Cycle & Carriage Bintang_Buka Puasa & Hari Raya Dinner_Dato' Zainal Abidin_MalaysiaThe Buka Puasa and Hari Raya dinner saw about 400 customers entertained by artistes Dato’ Zainal Abidin and Nadeera Zaini. This dinner, which also saw the presence of Mark Raine, Vice President, Sales & Marketing, Mercedes-Benz Cars, is part of a series of specially curated experiences and highlights to celebrate Cycle & Carriage’s 120th anniversary. The celebration began with the launch of its Star Galleria, its first-ever mobile showroom, in January; which is scheduled to visit multiple locations nationwide throughout the year. The celebration continued with Chinese New Year dinners with customers in the northern, central and southern regions.

The company is also running a regional campaign to give away 120 exceptional journeys of specially curated trips to three enticing destinations: Mongolia, Nepal and Korea. This anniversary campaign will end on 30 November 2019 for Cycle & Carriage’s valued customers in Singapore, Malaysia and Myanmar.

Aside from this, Cycle & Carriage, which is a firm believer in supporting the technical and vocational education of youth in Malaysia, also launched its inaugural Cycle & Carriage Study Grant this year, as well as donated equipment at an engagement with Montfort Boys Town, a vocational institution in Shah Alam.

by -

The sixth edition of the BMW Motorrad Nightfuel Malaysia will be happening on 22 June 2019 (Saturday). Nightfuel is the largest gathering of premium motorcycle enthusiasts from across Malaysia and this year, it returns to Kuala Lumpur this year.

The New BMW F 750 GS (3)_BMW Motorrad MalaysiaThe upcoming Nightfuel will be held at The Base, Sempang Airport, Royal Malaysian Air Force Base in Sungai Besi. Going with the theme of “Making Life A Ride”, the BMW Motorrad Nightfuel Malaysia will be a night of great music, food and camaraderie. Music will come courtesy of live performances by acts such as TC Buskers, Arjuna Band and a legendary Malaysian rock legend.

We can also expect the introduction of new motorcycles by BMW Motorrad Malaysia as well as a lucky draw to win a BMW Motorrad GS bike.

Details of the event are:

Date : 22 June 2019 (Saturday)

Time : 7:00 pm –  11:00 pm

Venue : The Base, Sempang Airport, Royal Malaysian Air Force Base 57100 Sungai Besi, Kuala Lumpur

BMW R 1250 RT 05_BMW Motorrad MalaysiaTickets to the Sixth BMW Nightfuel Event Malaysia 2019 costs RM90 via online registration (from now until Monday, 17 June 2019), and RM110 for walk-ins during the event. Visit BMW Motorrad Malaysia’s website to register.

More details are also available on BMW Motorrad Malaysia’s Facebook page or BMW VOICE at 1800-88-3000.

by -

In order to provide better and more efficient service, Tenaga Nasional Berhad (TNB) is expanding its fleet of support trucks with Isuzu ELF light duty trucks. The 61 units of new ELF NPR75UKHW Crew Cab customised trucks will be used by the energy company for field support services.

The trucks were purchased from Automotive Corporation Malaysia Sdn Bhd, an authorised Isuzu Malaysia dealer. The 61 trucks are equipped with Roller Shutter function, aside from the double cabin interior that can comfortably accommodate up to 5 adults. Additionally, they are fitted with the 4HK1-TC Heavy Duty Common Rail engine that delivers powerful output and performance, while ensuring fuel efficiency and reliability, in order to meet the rigorous demands of TNB’s daily operations.

L-R: Datuk Viswanathan A/L Subramaniam with Koji Nakamura
L-R: Datuk Viswanathan A/L Subramaniam with Koji Nakamura

Prior to the official handover ceremony, a training session was held for TNB staff and drivers, with topics ranging from product briefing, basic vehicle maintenance to pre-delivery inspection.

At the handover ceremony, Koji Nakamura, Chief Executive Officer of Isuzu Malaysia, conveyed his gratitude to TNB for their continuous support and trust towards Isuzu Malaysia as their preferred vehicle partner. Nakamura is confident that the Isuzu trucks will assist TNB in ensuring that the nation’s electricity needs are met in a timely and reliable manner.

Tenaga Nasional Bhd and Isuzu Malaysia management pose with one of the ELF trucks.
Tenaga Nasional Bhd and Isuzu Malaysia management pose with one of the ELF trucks.

Others present at the handover ceremony were Datuk Viswanathan A/L Subramaniam, TNB Senior General Manager of Fleet Management; Wan Nazmy Wan Mahmood, TNB Head (Operations) of Distribution Network-Asset Owner, Othman bin Alias, Chairman of the TNB K3P Staff Union; Mohamad Radzi Omar, Chief Operating Officer of ACM; Muhammad Fateh Teh, Head of Automotive Distribution from DRB-HICOM; and management of Isuzu Malaysia.

by -

Energy provider, Sarawak Energy Bhd, has purchased two Hyundai NEXO vehicles for a pilot project. The Hyundai NEXO is the flagship hydrogen fuel cell-powered crossover from the Hyundai Motor Company (HMC). The two units of NEXO will be used by Sarawak Energy in trials for its pilot hydrogen production plant and refueling station project in Kuching.

Hyundai NEXO_Sarawak Energy_Hydrogen Refuelling Station_Chief Minister of Sarawak, Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Openg_MalaysiaSarawak Energy is already providing energy, predominantly from hydropower, to the state’s 2.8 million users. This project is Sarawak Energy’s initiative to study the viability of using fuel cells, especially hydrogen, to power the states’s transportation sector. The refueling station in Kuching will be the first of its kind dedicated for transportation in Southeast Asia.

Subsequent to the delivery of the two NEXOs in early May, HMC and Hyundai-Sime Darby Motors (HSDM) are considering establishing plans to distribute Hyundai’s hydrogen fuel cell-powered SUV in the Southeast Asia region.

Hyundai NEXO_Sarawak Energy_Chief Minister of Sarawak Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Openg_MalaysiaThe Hyundai NEXO leads HMC’s plans in zero-emission vehicles development. The NEXO’s electric powertrain bears the latest in fuel cell technology, with improved performance over its ix35 Fuel Cell predecessor. The NEXO has an electric motor which produces 163 PS that draws power from an under-bonnet fuel cell stack, which combines oxygen from the surrounding air with hydrogen from its high-pressure storage tanks. This mixing results in electricity to power the motor and charge the battery, and water vapour, which exits through the exhaust. On full tanks of hydrogen, the NEXO is capable of 666 km, under the new Worldwide Harmonised Light Vehicle Test Procedure (WLTP), before needing to refuel, which takes only a few minutes.

Besides the environmentally-friendly powertrain, the NEXO also has an advanced air purification system which filters 99.9% of very fine dust (PM2.5); the amount of air purified is shown on the car display panel.

NEXO has also been independently awarded the UL Bio Environmental Seal for the use of bio-fibres from sugar cane waste and vegetable plasticisers in the headliner and carpet areas; bio-plastics from sugar cane and corn waste in door, seat, pillar and console trims; and bio-paint extracted from rapeseed and soybean oils for the dashboard and centre console.

Demand for eco-friendly vehicles has been growing, aided by policies of various governments to reduce pollution and environmental impact. According to HMC, the NEXO, which was recently named ‘the game changer’ at the Auto Car Awards in the UK, has great potential in the Southeast Asia eco car marketplace.

by -

Perodua has delivered some 52% of the 25,000 bookings it received for the Aruz seven-seater SUV. This works out to about 13,000 units going to its new owners in time for the Hari Raya festive period. This also means about 12,000 customers will not get to enjoy their new Aruz during Hari Raya, for which Perodua President and Chief Executive Officer, Dato’ Zainal Abidin Ahmad humbly apologises for.

Perodua_Dato Zainal Abidin Ahmad_President & CEO_Malaysia“The Perodua Aruz has been met with unprecedented demand. We thank all Malaysians for making the nation’s best-value SUV also one of its best-selling SUVs,” he said. “We have managed to increase Perodua Aruz deliveries to an average of 110 units daily from 100 previously. We are continuing to work closely with our suppliers to further shrink the gap between orders and deliveries,” he explained.

Going forward, Perodua is doing everything it can to maximise production and deliveries to further cut down on the waiting time. “We thank you very much for your understanding, patience and trust,” said Dato’ Zainal.

According to the company’s internal count, it sold 22,943 vehicles in May 2019, bringing its five-month tally to 105,743 vehicles, an 8.5% increase over the 97,487 vehicles sold during the corresponding period in 2018. The 2019 figure is still pending the Malaysian Automotive Association’s (MAA) official numbers.

Perodua Aruz AV_3_4 Front Left_TopThe Perodua Aruz is a certified Energy-Efficient Vehicle (EEV) with a class-leading official fuel consumption of 15.6 km/l. It comes with six airbags and Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) as standard. The range-topping AV variant’s Advanced Safety Assist 2.0 helps it gain maximum five-star ASEAN NCAP safety rating.

“We also express our gratitude to our capable local component suppliers, who have truly proven their mettle by ramping up their production and quality to meet Malaysians’ ever-increasing demand for Perodua models, all of which have well over 90% local content,” said Dato’ Zainal.

by -

Subaru XV_Steering Wheel_MalaysiaAll new Subaru vehicles will now be covered by a comprehensive five year or 100,000 km warranty (whichever comes first), according to TC Subaru Sdn Bhd, the exclusive distributor of Subaru vehicles in Malaysia. This increase in warranty period covers all Subaru vehicles booked from 25 April 2019, and includes all locally assembled and imported models distributed by TC Subaru and its authorised dealers.

The warranties will be the same over the five years for better peace of mind. This new five-year coverage is different from the extended warranty schemes which provide reduced coverage in subsequent years.

Subaru XV 2.0L Boxer Engine, Malaysia Launch 2017As usual, owners must adhere to the scheduled service intervals, conducted at authorised Subaru service centres, to be covered by the warranties. TC Subaru will not be able to extend this programme to drivers who use non-genuine parts or carry out technical alterations not authorised or approved by the company (other terms and conditions may apply).

For more information, visit a Subaru showroom or www.subaru.asia/my/en/promotions/sales/70/

by -

Boon Siew Honda has introduced minor updates for the Honda CB250R and CRF250 Rally motorbikes for 2019.

Honda CBR250R_Neo Sports Cafe_Motorcycle_Candy Chromsphere Red_MalaysiaThe CBR250R is a lightweight ‘Neo Sports Café’ introduced in 2018 and has received overwhelming interest and response. For 2019, the CB250R is fitted with an enhanced exterior for a sportier outlook. It now comes with a bronze front fork to match its signature round headlight.

Choosing the Candy Chromosphere Red body colour will also net you bronze rim finishing that makes it stand out more.

The CB250R equipped with LED lighting, digital LCD meter, SHOWA upsidedown (USD) fork, adjustable rear suspension, ABS and a large 10.1-litre fuel tank.

The Honda CB250R is priced at RM23,499 for the Candy Chromosphere Red and RM22,999 for Graphic Black and Mat Crypton Silver Metallic.

Meanwhile, the Honda CRF250 Rally is a 250cc machine made for the serious dual-sport rider with on- and off-road capabilities that is suited for weekend adventures and touring while being practical for daily commutes.

Honda CRF250 Rally_Boon Siew Honda_MalaysiaThe CRF250 Rally now comes with a new stripe design that inspired by the latest CRF450 Rally Dakar racer. The bike is equipped with asymmetric LED headlights, digital LCD meter, floating windscreen, 43mm SHOWA upsidedown (USD) fork, ABS and large 10.1-litre fuel tank.

The 2019 Honda CRF250 Rally is priced at RM26,999. Exterior colour options are Extreme Red and Black.

Prices quoted are showroom prices and excludes road tax, insurance and registration. All Honda motorcycles are covered by a two-year or 20,000 km warranty (whichever comes first).

More information can be found at all Honda authorized dealers or from Honda’s Toll-Free number (1800-88-3993) (Monday to Friday, 9 am – 5pm, except public holidays), or www.boonsiewhonda.com.my

by -

Daihatsu Gran Max Panel Van_Automatic Transmission AT_MalaysiaDaihatsu (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd. (DMSB) will feature its light commercial vehicle (LCV) with automatic transmission at the Malaysia Commercial Vehicle Expo (MCVE 2019), reinforcing its position as the distributor of the first automatic LCV in Malaysia. The MCVE will be held at the Malaysia International Exhibition and Convention Centre from 20 – 22 June 2019, and is open to the public.

Daihatsu Gran Max_Panel Van_Automatic Transmission_Console_MalaysiaThe Daihatsu Gran Max panel van is the first in its class to feature an automatic transmission, and is designed to cater to a range of use from urban delivery to SMEs to entrepreneurs and government and fleet businesses. The decision to introduce the automatic transmission variant here is mainly to cater to city-based businesses to tackle the slow or heavy traffic. The use of an automatic gearbox especially in a city setting may benefit in terms of fuel consumption as well as reduced stress.

The rear-wheel drive (RWD) configuration also offers drivers better initial acceleration and improved traction since the load is over the rear axle. The Gran Max is able to accommodate up to 2,000 kg of gross weight (with load), and runs on Electric Fuel Injection (EFI) powered by DOHC DVVT 1.5 litre engine. The compact size of the Gran Max, together with the power steering, allows for easier manouevering and parking in tight spots.

The van also comes with Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and dual front SRS airbags.

Daihatsu Gran Max_Light Commercial Vehicle_Truck_Panel Van_MalaysiaBesides this, DMSB will also be showing off a custom-built Gran Max panel van which will feature a conservation initiative to reduce the vehicle’s CO2 emissions, in an exclusive joint effort with Free Tree Society, an environmental organisation that spreads the environmental stewardship message through public awareness campaigns. As an incentive, expo visitors who visit DMSB’s booth will get to take home free tree seedlings and plants.

Another highlight at the expo will be a custom-built Gran Max pick-up truck to be used as a mobile clinic. This is a collaboration with Columbia Asia Hospital to offer complimentary health screening throughout the three days of the expo. Further, there will be a blood donation drive administrated by the National Blood Centre on the second day of the event from 12 pm – 6 pm at Daihatsu’s booth.

DMSB will also be introducing various tailor-made programs suitable for small businesses as well as larger fleets at the expo.

“The Gran Max is extremely versatile and can allow up to 17 customised body applications. This adaptability makes the Gran Max the perfect vehicle for a wide range of transport and business needs. As an innovation driver, we are confident the Gran Max line-up will cement our reputation as being able to provide the best and first in market, enabling us to continue to be a trusted mobility service provider to our customers,” said Arman Mahadi, Managing Director of Daihatsu (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd.

by -

Proton Exora 2019_Dr. Li Chunrong, CEO and Dato' Radzaif Mohamed, DCEO of PROTON (right)The Proton Exora has been updated for 2019. The seven-seater MPV has received some new equipment as well as minor cosmetic changes and improved componentry.

The Exora is available in two variants – the 1.6T Executive (RM59,800) and 1.6T Premium (RM66,800).

 

Proton Exora 2019_Head Unit_7_ Touchscreen_MalaysiaLike the Iriz and Persona that were also updated, the Exora also gets an intelligent infotainment system. In the 1.6T Premium, the embedded eSIM gives it internet connectivity for continuous online multimedia like navigation, music streaming and weather updates, via the 7″ touchscreen display, as well as receive over-the-air software updates. The system also offers a mirroring function for Android devices. Standard of course is the familiar “Hi Proton” voice command function.

Proton Exora Extra_2019_MalaysiaThe noticeable changes on the exterior include the shark fin antenna, black roof, and a new colour option – Rosewood Maroon.

Meanwhile, the interior receives a new meter cluster, and borderless rear view mirror.

The Exora continues to use the 1.6L turbocharged engine with 140 PS and 203 Nm of torque. It is also equipped with two front airbags, Electronic Stability Control, Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Brake-force Distribution, disc brakes, reverse camera and rear parking sensors.

Proton is also offering Extra Value packages with the 2019 Exora. The choices range from a service package with three free labour services, to the internet data package with free 1GB data per month for five year, to low interest rate package from as low as 2.75%, and an insurance package.

In addition, there are the Value Added packages where new Exora buyers will be given a five-year (or 11 times) free labour service package. The first 1,000 Exora buyers will also get free road tax for two years (private buyers) or one year (corporate buyers).

These extras are worth about RM4,233 for the 1.6T Executive and RM5,652 for the 1.6T Premium, in addition to the reduced selling price.

Gallery:

Prev1...1,000265266267...1,040Next Page 266 of 1,040
-->

NEW CAR LAUNCHES

TEST DRIVES & REVIEWS

Automotive News