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From 1 to 3 March, the EON & Sahabat AutoFest 2024 will offer exciting discounts and promotional packages with a wide line-up of popular brands sold by EON, including the option of driving home your dream car on the same day of purchase. The AutoFest 2024 is EON Berhad’s largest annual event and will be held at the EON headquarters in Glenmarie, Shah Alam (10 AM – 6 PM).

Displayed and on sale under one roof are various popular brands e.g. Proton, Honda, Isuzu, Daihatsu, Mitsubishi, smart, Audi and Volkswagen. Among the models available will be the recently launched Proton S70 and smart #1. There will also be test drive sessions you can sign up for. For those seeking 2-wheelers, there will also be Modenas and Kawasaki models on display. Proton_S70

“Organised in conjunction with EON’s 40th Anniversary, EON & Sahabat AutoFest 2024 is special, and not just because of the exciting discounts, promotions, and special packages,” said Akkbar Danial, CEO of EON Berhad. “We are revolutionising the car buying experience with a new digital platform that will give our customers a smooth, fast, and hassle-free purchasing journey. Think of it as a digital, instant financing application where you could potentially drive home your new car by the end of the same day.”EON & Sahabat AutoFest 2024_Brands

Those who place orders and apply for new car financing via EON’s new digital platform at the EON & Sahabat AutoFest 2024 will also stand to win exciting prizes totalling up to RM100,000 as well as the Grand Prize of a brand-new Proton S70.

To further facilitate new car ownership, trade-in facilities will also be available together with special deals for insurance applications. Furthermore, auto detailing packages will be offered for anyone looking to spruce up their current rides.

Other products and services present at the AutoFest include AVIS car rental, PUSPAKOM, Pos Malaysia, and Petromin Express, a quick-stop car service centre. Additionally, representatives from DRB-HICOM University of Automotive Malaysia will also be on-site to guide prospective university students interested in pursuing higher education in the automotive and its related industries.

The AutoFest will also host a Bazaar Raya to celebrate the upcoming month of Ramadhan. There will be vendors selling fashion, décor, food, and other offerings. Adding to that are food trucks, celebrity appearances, as well as a dedicated kids’ zone.

There is ample parking available, including at nearby Wisma DRB-HICOM (free shuttle service available). Alternatively, you can make use of the free shuttle service from the Glenmarie LRT station. Wisma DRB-HICOMFor more information, visit https://eon.com.my/autofest/

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Petron Malaysia is taking a significant stride towards promoting sustainable practices with the installation of an AI-based reverse vending machine (RVM) at its Lebuh Bandar Utama service station. Teaming up with Klean Malaysia, the company aims to encourage recycling through a digital container deposit system. Customers can now conveniently deposit used plastic food containers, PET (polyethylene terephthalate) bottles, and aluminum cans at the RVM while earning points through the Klean Recycling App for voucher redemption.

This strategic partnership not only emphasises Petron Malaysia’s commitment to environmental sustainability but also marks an effort to foster a shift in recycling behaviour, a crucial step towards achieving a circular economy. This aligns with the Petron’s commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals 11 and 12 and the Malaysia Plastics Sustainability Roadmap 2021-2030 for plastic circularity. Petron Malaysia_Klean_Reverse Vending Machine_Plastic & Aluminium Recycling

“Plastics remainsas a high usage in homes and businesses today despite its toxicity and contributions to pollution. As it is a cheap and convenient alternative; it is often used at the expense of the environment. For instance, we use it for packaging to protect food from damage in transit and preserve it before it reaches supermarket shelves. So, the key strategy here is to increase public awareness of responsible plastic consumption and ensure waste plastics are recovered and diverted from landfills. At Petron, we are aware of the rising of plastic waste as Malaysia is reportedly one of the top 10 countries in the world with the highest plastic waste. Our collaboration today with Klean Malaysia is a game-changer in recycling. We are hopeful that the Klean RVM installed at our service stations will play a part in increasing public understanding and shaping community perceptions of how to dispose of plastic responsibly,” Shaliza Mohd Sidek, Head of Retail Business at Petron Malaysia shared.

Efforts to recycle plastics isn’t new to Petron Malaysia. Last year, its service station dealers in the southern region initiated a 3-month “Rehydrate and Recycle” campaign to educate its customers on responsible plastic use. The dealers managed to collect 255 kilograms of plastic bottle caps and repurposed them into 16 benches which were donated to the Johor state government for tourism purpose.

“We take pride in being the first Petron station to deploy the RVM after undergoing meticulous site feasibility and scoping. This decision was based on our geographical criteria, considering the higher density of the neighbourhood. This state-of-the-art machine streamlines the process of depositing empty plastic bottles and cans and helps educate our local communities to spur their plastic recycling actions,” said Nadia Othman, the service station manager of Petron Lebuh Bandar Utama.

The AI-driven RVM utilises machine learning to identify the types of containers deposited, while real-time data collection such as the number of recyclers, and quantities of plastic and aluminium deposited, enables the tracking of recycling metrics and environmental impact.

“We are excited to collaborate with like-minded partners like Petron Malaysia to protect the environment for a sustainable future. We are the first RVM ecosystem attached with a rewarding scheme. Today, Klean has installed over 60 RVM machines in Malaysia, strategically placed in highly populated areas such as schools, airports, transport hubs and shopping malls. We aspire to broaden our network of machines and extend our machine coverage to more Petron service station locations, reaching out to more communities. We are here to push for behavioural change towards recycling through education and incentivisation, with the ultimate aim of achieving zero-waste to landfill,” said Syed Zain Almohdzar, the Co-founder or Chief Operating Officer of Klean Malaysia. Klean is the sole company to secure a 100% tax-deductible status from the Ministry of Finance in the RVM ecosystem industry in Malaysia.

In the next few months, Petron plans to expand RVM installations to more service station locations. Already in the pipeline are 100 locations in the Klang Valley. Petron Malaysia_Fuel Station_Treats Convenience Store

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What Is This?

By today, you would probably have encountered quite a fair number of new Chery vehicles on the road in Malaysia. A couple of years ago, Chery Automobile had made clear its intention to re-establish itself in Malaysia as part of its global expansion strategy. Chery was and still is the largest exporter of vehicles among the car makers of China; in 2023, it exported 937,148 vehicles making it the leading exporter among its peers for 21 consecutive years.

For Malaysia, Chery had started off with the trendy SUV body style, introducing 2 of its models to the market i.e. the Omoda 5 5-seater SUV, and the Chery Tiggo 8 Pro 7-seater SUV. Compared to the flashier Omoda 5, the Tiggo 8 Pro’s styling is more understated and mature. There is very little drama with its exterior styling  but this approach will allow the Tiggo 8 Pro to withstand the test of time and trends. The current Pro models use the Chery global design team’s ‘Life in Motion 3.0’ design language which includes a prominent galaxy-inspired geometric matrix diamond front grille.

The exterior features include automatic LED headlights with daytime running lights, LED tail lights, welcome light, hands-free powered tailgate with remote unlocking, keyless entry with remote engine start and cooling activation, as well as roof rails which are practical for installing a roof-top box so you can maximise the cabin for passengers. FYI, rear cargo volume is only about 193 litres with all the seats occupied (though it expands to 892 litres with the 3rd row seats folded down).

What Is Inside?

Inside, there are 7 seats wrapped in quilted and perforated leather and are complemented by matching trim on the dashboard, door cards and centre console. The dashboard is styled in a way that it would not look out of place in a premium marque. So while that isn’t true open-pore wood trim on the dashboard, it still adds a a classy look to the interior without being kitschy. The ‘open-pore wood’ trim extends to the doors to surround the door handle and homage covers for the Sony tweeters. And just like a modern-day vehicle, the Tiggo 8 Pro has a curved 24.6″ widescreen display on the dashboard that is split into an infotainment screen and a multi-info display for the driver.

The front seats feature powered adjustment, with the driver getting lumbar adjustment and position memory for up to 3 people. The front seats also have built-in cooling and heating which are a welcome function. On the inner side of the front passenger’s backrest is a ‘boss seat’ control for the rear passenger to conveniently adjust for rear space. There is also a 2-zone climate control system for quick cabin cooling, and the 3rd row’s air-conditioning is independent (fan speed only) and can be switched off when not needed. In the 2nd row however, the ‘boss’ does not have a say to the climate control temperature. Furthermore, I would prefer physical buttons for the climate control rather than a touch panel but that isn’t a deal breaker. All in, it is an interior that doesn’t look like it tries too hard and this is when one starts to appreciate it. I also find the ambient lighting rather pleasing at night.

Some might even enjoy the powered panoramic sunroof, which I don’t care much for in almost every vehicle tested. But to those who use it, you might be pleased to know that the sunroof responds to the “Hello Chery” voice control. Similarly, the powered tailgate, the defroster, the air purifier function, climate control, windows, high beam assist, multimedia volume, radio etc can be controlled by voice command. Yes, some of these functions are actually within easy reach of a finger but voice presents another option for control and allows you to not need to take your hands nor eyes off of driving.

Other helpful features include a 50W wireless charging pad, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity, built-in driving recorder, and 2 USB ports in front and 2 in the 2nd row (Type 2 and Type C). Third row passengers however, have to make do with a 12V socket for charging their devices.

What Makes It Go?

The Chery Tiggo 8 Pro comes with a 2.0L TGDI turbocharged petrol engine producing 256 hp and 390 Nm of torque which are sent to the 19″ wheels in front through a 7-speed dual clutch transmission (DCT). Drivers can choose from 3 Drive modes i.e. Eco, Normal and Sport, with the electric power steering also providing mode adjustment to suit different preferences. The front wheels are connected to MacPherson struts while the rears are to a longitudinal towing-arm type suspension. Chery Tiggo 8 Pro_2.0 Litre Turbo GDI Petrol Engine

In some markets, the Tiggo 8 Pro uses a smaller 1.6L TGDI engine with 197 hp and 290 Nm. But seeing how some Malaysians can be enamoured by output figures, perhaps it is a wise move by Chery Malaysia to use the larger engine so few would feel shortchanged.

A smaller engine of course, would burn less fuel particularly while idling in city traffic thus lowering emissions and fuel costs. However, the larger 2.0L engine really offers more satisfaction in highway driving. That said, my average fuel consumption ranged from as low as 7.4L/100km (with half of it on the highway, and carrying 6 passengers) to 9.2L/100km (with a lot of idling time for taking photos). A sure way to ensure optimal fuel consumption would be to have the tyres properly inflated (the tyre pressure monitoring system comes in handy), and to minimise engine idling.

How Does It Feel?

Admittedly, the first time in the Chery Tiggo 8 Pro during a preview drive didn’t impress much but I have to qualify that it was a pre-production unit. That all changed to a more positive note after the official launch with a showroom unit. Chery_Tiggo 8 Pro

The ride comfort felt better and is what you would expect from a vehicle of this class. This SUV took road undulations and speed bumps without much drama. The turbocharged engine in Sport mode also makes overtaking on the highway fairly effortless. In the other 2 modes however, the slight lag between putting your foot down on the throttle and the corresponding acceleration is a bit more apparent. But this isn’t something an owner cannot adapt to. However, the quality of the driving and handling seem to be limited by the stock tyres but this is also easily solved. Overall, the driving experience is more than decent.

The Tiggo 8 Pro also comes with Advanced Driving Assistance Systems (ADAS) including Lane Departure Warning, Lane Keeping System, Blind Spot Detection, Door Open Warning, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Adaptive Cruise Control with Integrated Cruise Assist, Front Collision Warning with Vehicle Identification, Autonomous Emergency Braking, Intelligent High-beam Control, Traffic Sign Recognition and Traffic Jam Assist, and a 540-degree high definition panoramic camera system. Being assistance features, they are mainly useful as driving aids and can be switched off if you prefer.

What Is There To Like?

So what is there to like? I’d like to first pick out some of the things I don’t like so much, such as the mismatching typeface used in the cabin, and the visual imbalance of the model badging at the rear. I also would have liked to see at least 1 USB port for the 3rd row seats, seeing that we are now well into the 21st century. Also, there is a learning curve for some of the control layout. For example, the volume rocker is on the centre console rather than the steering wheel. Additionally, the company has also acknowledged the position of the latch for folding the 2nd row seat of the test unit as that derived from the left-hand-drive variant.

But what I do like is that the vehicle feels well put together, as a whole. I also like that the removable tonneau cover has a dedicated storage space in the boot, indicating that someone had thought about it practically. I also like that the front centre storage box has a cooling function. Additionally, it has one of the most comfortable headrests I have laid my noggin on in a ‘mass market’ vehicle. Chery Tiggo 8 Pro_White

Launched with a retail price of RM159,800 and covered by a 7-year / 150,000 km, the Chery Tiggo 8 Pro has a lot going for it with its combo of comfort, space, power and features. Anyone who needs a 5+2 seater to ferry around 6 passengers regularly, or just needs some extra boot space, should put this on his / her radar. Particularly if you’re frequently taking long drives.

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As PROTON continues its business expansion in the automobiles market, it is also strategically diversifying its operations and revenue streams by venturing into various sectors within and beyond the automotive ecosystem. Spearheading this effort is Proton Global Services (PGS), a wholly owned subsidiary of Proton Edar, which is establishing itself as a key component of PROTON’s business network.

Proton Global Services_PGS_Lee Yeet Chuan_CEOEstablished in 2021 with a single F&B and merchandise outlet, PGS has since broadened its scope of operations to cover 6 key areas i.e. Lifestyle, Engineering, Training, New Energy, Logistics, and R3 Motorsports. Led by PGS CEO, Lee Yeet Chuan, revenue has increased exponentially from below RM1 million in 2021 to 19 times that figure by the end of 2023.

For Proton owners and enthusiasts, the most prominent areas of PGS’s business are its Lifestyle and R3 Motorsports divisions. The Lifestyle division manages the Proton Café and the sale of Proton merchandise, while the R3 Motorsports division is dedicated to developing performance variants and running Proton’s racing activities.

Since its start in 2021, the Proton Café has been serving customers with premium brewed coffee and food in a relaxing setting. There are currently 16 outlets operating at various Proton dealerships, and there are plans to expand this network to 25 outlets by 2025. Additionally, Proton branded merchandise, including R3 merchandise, now commercialised under PGS, are currently available through 20 merchandise partners nationwide, along with an online presence at protonmerchandise.com. Proton Global Services_Proton Merchandise

Last year, the iconic R3 Motorsports division marked its 20th anniversary by launching the Proton X50 R3 20th Anniversary Edition. This year, the division is focused on developing a Proton S70 R3 racing car for participation in the S1K race, along with growing its sales of high-performance R3 lubricants.

Lee Yeet Chuan, CEO of PGS, remarked, “The retail business for PGS leverages on the strong enthusiasm Malaysians have for Proton. With so much history behind the company, we have an opportunity to build closer ties with Proton owners while offering them premium products and services. Our activities also indirectly reinforce Proton’s branding, and this is clearly seen via our R3 branded merchandise, lubricants and return to motorsports in the future.” Proton R3 Engine Oil_Merchandise

In addition to its retail opportunities, PGS is engaged in projects within PROTON’s ecosystem, generating additional revenue streams for the parent company through profit-sharing with Proton Edar. Its projects include the upgrading of lighting systems at PROTON’s casting plant to improve energy efficiency, and supplying furniture and commissioning new office space for departmental transfers to Proton Tanjong Malim.

Meanwhile, the New Energy division of PGS is focused on integrating renewable energy solutions to improve the company’s Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) rating, while also retailing energy-efficient solutions. Projects include the supply and installation of solar PV cells for Proton dealerships and vendors, as well as collaborating with partners to develop a proof of concept for mobile EV charging.Proton Global Services_Dealer_Solar PV Panel

Roslan Abdullah, CEO of PROTON Edar, highlighted, “PROTON has been able to derive a number of benefits by forming Proton Global Services. From a costing point of view, the company is now able to better control operational costs while PGS retail operations allows us to leverage on the strength of our dealer network and brand image and maximise revenue opportunities from sales of merchandise, F&B and high-performance lubricants.”

Proton Edar_CEO_Roslan Abdullah“For the future, plans are in place to expand the use of renewable clean energy for PROTON and our vendors while work is currently ongoing between PGS and its engineering partners to develop energy storage and charging solutions critical for future Proton models. Added to initiatives to support training for automotive industry workers as well as a growing logistics presence, we envision PGS to continue to make consistent contributions to PROTON’s bottom line in the future,” he added.

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An uncompromising commitment to personalised client engagement and consistent brand representation worldwide are what form the core principles driving Rolls-Royce Motor Cars’ success. Today, Rolls-Royce announces the departure of Henrik Wilhelmsmeyer, who had been instrumental in spearheading initiatives embodying these values during his 6-year tenure as Director of Sales & Brand with the company. Henrik will transition to a new senior position within the BMW Group starting 1 March 2024, where he will take on a leading role in shaping the brand’s future of high-end luxury vehicles.

Henrik Wilhelmsmeyer_BMW GroupHenrik joined the Rolls-Royce global headquarters at Goodwood in 2018, bringing with him a wealth of experience as the marque’s former Regional Director for the Greater China region. During his tenure, Henrik oversaw crucial product development, sales and marketing campaigns for business-critical models such as the Cullinan, Ghost, Phantom Series II, and the recent Spectre. He played a pivotal role in establishing Coachbuild as a permanent fixture within Rolls-Royce’s portfolio.

With a dedication to consistency, Henrik transformed the marque’s mindset and attitude, particularly in how Rolls-Royce engages with its clientele and delivers tailored experiences. He introduced a more focused, personalised, disciplined, and data-driven approach to client engagement, such as the invitation-only Whispers app for Rolls-Royce owners. Rolls-Royce Spectre_Coach Door

Furthermore, under Henrik’s leadership, Rolls-Royce developed a new Visual Identity which is now being implemented across its dealer partner network worldwide. Additionally, the successful expansion of the Goodwood Private Office concept to Dubai and Shanghai contributed to a record year in 2023 in terms of both number and value for the marque’s unrivalled Bespoke programme. The company plans to open 2 more Private Offices this year.

Julian Jenkins_Rolls-Royce Motor Cars_Director_Sales & BrandEffective 1 March, Julian Jenkins will succeed Henrik as Director of Sales & Brand. Julian brings extensive experience to the role, having previously served at Rolls-Royce’s Goodwood headquarters as General Manager of Sales Operations and then as Regional Director for the Europe region. With a background that includes leadership positions at Aston Martin Lagonda, Bentley, BMW in various regions, he was most recently Chief Commercial Officer at Bizzarrini, an Italian supercar manufacturer, where he played a crucial role in driving revenue growth and shaping the commercial success of the company. Julian’s international experience, product knowledge, and deep understanding of the luxury sector position him well to guide Rolls-Royce toward its all-electric future.

“Since 2018, Henrik Wilhelmsmeyer has completely transformed our mindset and attitude – how we work together, how we understand and interact with our clients and the experiences we offer them. He leaves Rolls-Royce a better place, with his enduring legacy of innovation, progress and achievement in client engagement, product development and consistency in the way our marque presents itself around the world. To build on Henrik’s work, we’re delighted to welcome Julian Jenkins back to Goodwood. Like Charles Rolls, Julian originally studied engineering but found his true vocation as a consummate sales, marketing and product professional. His luxury experience, strong leadership, strategic thinking, and communication skills make him exceptionally well placed to build on Henrik’s achievements. These are exciting times for all of us, and we wish both Henrik and Julian well in their new roles,” said Chris Brownridge, Chief Executive, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars.

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Tesla Malaysia has recently expanded its charging network with the addition of Destination Chargers in Penang. The installation of 2 Destination charging stations at strategic locations i.e. The Ship Campus in Batu Kawan, and All Seasons Place on Penang island will provide enhanced convenience and accessibility to the growing community of Tesla owners in the region.

This expansion marks a milestone in Tesla’s commitment to enhancing its infrastructure support for Tesla EV owners in Malaysia. It also facilitates seamless cross-country travel from Singapore to Johor, and now to Penang for Tesla owners. The addition of these charging stations bolsters Tesla’s vision for electric mobility.

The Ship Campus has 8 Destination chargers while All Seasons Place mall has 4 Destination chargers to cover both Penang island and mainland. Tesla owners only need to plug in to any of these points and enjoy free charging. With the Tesla app, owners can monitor the charging status and receive notifications when their vehicles are ready to go. Tesla_Destination Charging Station_AC Charging

The Ship Campus is located at: No. 1, Education Boulevard Batu Kawan Industrial Park, Kampung Batu Kawan, 14110 Simpang Ampat, Penang. The chargers are located at the outdoor car park outside the main entrance and are available 24 hours a day. Meanwhile, the chargers at All Seasons Place mall (6H-1-21, All Seasons Place, Lebuhraya Thean Teik, 11500 Air Itam, Penang) are located at the indoor car park on the Groud floor. These are also available 24 hours a day. The chargers are available only for Tesla vehicles. Tesla_Destination Chargers

Currently, there are a total of 6 Supercharging stations and 8 Destination charging stations in Malaysia, offering a total of 30 Superchargers and 37 Destination chargers in major cities. Tesla will continue building more charging infrastructures in Penang and expanding charging coverage and accessibility for Tesla owners across the country.

For more information, you can contact the Tesla Malaysia hotline (1800 810 655).

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In a move to strengthen its presence in Malaysia, WTC Automotif (M) Sdn Bhd (“WTCA”), the exclusive distributor of GAC vehicles in the country, recently signed dealership agreements with 9 new GAC dealerships. GAC_Dealerships_WTC Automotif

The newly appointed dealerships are:

  • Evolution Autotech Sdn Bhd
  • Gem Utara Sdn Bhd
  • Ju Brothers Motor Sdn Bhd
  • Klinik Kereta Tampin Sdn Bhd
  • Kuantan Motor Sdn Bhd
  • Mercu Usaha Automobile Sdn Bhd
  • Motion Beyond Sdn Bhd, Sincere Scope Sdn Bhd
  • SV Auto Selection Sdn Bhd

These dealerships are strategically located in prominent areas and key cities across Peninsular Malaysia namely Cyberjaya, Alor Setar, Butterworth, Seremban, Kuantan, Sungai Petani, Setia Alam, Johor Bahru, and Balakong. Scheduled to be operational in the first half of 2024, these dealerships will serve as the cornerstone of GAC Motor Malaysia’s sales and aftersales network to offer exceptional value and services to customers.GAC_Dealerships_Malaysia

Tan Keng Meng, Group Chief Executive Officer of Warisan TC Holdings Berhad, expressed enthusiasm about welcoming the new dealerships into the fold, stating, “We are excited to welcome these 9 esteemed dealerships to be part of our growing team. Their expertise and dedication to excellence align perfectly with our values, and together, we are poised to offer an enhanced automotive experience to customers across Malaysia.”

The setting up of these new dealerships are done in anticipation of the official entry of the new GAC GS3 Emzoom to Malaysia. WTCA had already been accepting bookings for this all-new locally assembled SUV since January 2024. The company is also planning to introduce the GAC Aion Y Plus BEV in the first half of 2024, as well as the GAC Emkoo later in the year. GAC GS3 Emzoom_Front

Mr Tan also expressed gratitude to its valued dealer partners for their unwavering support and confidence. He emphasised that the expansion of the dealership network underscores GAC Motor Malaysia’s commitment to brand excellence and wider market penetration in Malaysia. Tan reaffirmed the company’s dedication to intensifying investments to further expand the network and enhance customer touchpoints, ensuring exceptional customer experiences, including those in East Malaysia.

The dealership signing ceremony was held at the flagship GAC showroom in Section 13, Petaling Jaya, Selangor.

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FedEx Express is making its first fully electric cross-border trip with an EV from Malaysia to Singapore as part of its sustainability effort. FedEx Express is a subsidiary of FedEx Corp, one of the world’s largest express transportation companies which has committed to being carbon neutral by 2040.

With its operations present around the globe, it is exploring different ways of reaching this goal to reduce its carbon footprint through various initiatives including fleet modernisation (air and land transport), use of alternative fuels / energy, and improving the energy efficiency of its facilities. FedEx Express Malaysia_Efficiency_Carbon Neutrality_Tien-Long Woon

One of its initiatives in Malaysia is to explore the all-electric option. FedEx is currently running electric vans for pick-up and deliveries within the Klang Valley. The trial run from Malaysia to Singapore with a Maxus eDeliver 7 electric van will be used by the company to assess the operational effectiveness of EVs for future cross-border pick-up and delivery operations. This trial is also necessary to explore options as the cost of diesel fuel will not stay at current levels indefinitely.

For this run, FedEx is supported by Weststar Maxus as well as Shell Malaysia via its Shell Recharge EV charging station. The Maxus van will run from the FedEx station in Shah Alam to its facility in Changi Airport, Singapore and will cover a distance of 406 kilometres. The electric van will make a stop at Shell Tangkak (southbound) for a charging session. Data gathered on this trip will be used to evaluate the transition to non-fossil-fuel based logistics operations. The company estimates that this trial journey with an electric vehicle will reduce CO2 emissions from the tailpipe by about 100 kg compared to a diesel van. FedEx Express Malaysia_Shell_Weststar Maxus_Electric Van

“Our efforts to reduce emissions throughout our business means we need to think strategically about all of our ground operations, not just last-mile delivery,” said Kawal Preet, president of Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa region, FedEx. “This cross-border trial is a proof of concept that will help inform and advance our fleet electrification programme in the region, in line with our customers’ desire for sustainable time-definite delivery.”

This trial is considered a milestone for FedEx in its move towards transforming its global pick-up and delivery fleet to zero-emission vehicles by 2040 in phases. Throughout the Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa regions, FedEx has already deployed electric vehicles in several countries, with its largest EV fleet in Asia being in China. FedEx has also tested EVs in India, Thailand, South Africa, and the United Arab Emirates to help advance its emissions reduction goals.

“Making this cross-border attempt with a zero-tailpipe emissions vehicle goes beyond a logistical achievement, and represents a bold step in beginning to redefine industry standards,” said Tien-Long Woon, managing director of FedEx Express Malaysia. “FedEx is committed to innovating and leveraging technologies that enable improvements to the efficiency of our operations, as well as provide better and more sustainable service to our customers in Malaysia.” FedEx Express Malaysia_Maxus eDeliver 7_Electric Van

FedEx recently launched a cloud-based carbon emissions reporting tool i.e. FedEx Sustainability Insights to give customers in Malaysia access to historical emissions information on their shipment within the FedEx network. The data enables its customers to make informed decisions on their shipping strategy as well as on their own sustainability efforts to reduce carbon footprint.

You can learn about the FedEx sustainability programmes at https://www.fedex.com/en-us/sustainability.html. FedEx_Electric Vehicles

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After nearly 3 decades, Sime Darby Auto Bavaria Sungai Besi is making a significant move by relocating its operations to a new 4S centre in Balakong. As one of the oldest Auto Bavaria dealerships in Malaysia, boasting 27 years of operation (1997 to 2024), this transition marks the beginning of an exciting chapter for the company. The relocation to the new premises in Balakong is scheduled for March 2024.

Representing the prestigious BMW brand, this dealership has remained steadfast in its dedication to automotive excellence, bringing joy to customers since its inception. Its unwavering commitment to providing the highest standards of customer service has garnered it numerous accolades, including the prestigious BMW Excellence Club Award from BMW Group Malaysia.

To commemorate this legacy and to celebrate the dealership’s success and relocation, former and current managing directors, dealer principals, sales, and administrative personnel from Auto Bavaria will gather at Sungai Besi. This event will mark the end of an era and herald the dawn of a new one.

“Recognising and commemorating the legacy and milestones of Auto Bavaria Sungai Besi is paramount as we wish to ensure the seamless transfer of our united spirit and dedication to our new Balakong dealership. Auto Bavaria patrons can be rest assured of our ongoing determination going the extra mile in providing the best in class service in the premium automotive industry,” commented Vi Thim Juan, Managing Director of Auto Bavaria. Sime Darby Auto Bavaria Balakong_BMW Group Malaysia_BMW Premium Selection_MINI

The commencement of operation of Auto Bavaria Balakong in March will herald the arrival of the first Retail.NEXT dealership in the Klang Valley. This concept will showcase an expanded lineup of brands i.e. BMW, MINI, and BMW Premium Selection. The new dealership’s modern design will incorporate innovative customer consultation amenities and cutting-edge digital sales tools to enhance the overall customer experience.

There will be BMW Geniuses present on-site to offer convenience in obtaining information, and further elevate the premium experience. Furthermore, the lush landscaping surrounding the new facility is meant to add to its inviting ambiance, and complement the luxurious interior and create a visual delight for visitors upon arrival.

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Gentari Hydrogen Sdn Bhd has signed a Heads of Agreement (HoA) with SEDC Energy Sdn Bhd (SEDCE) to forge the path to a sustainable future in the state of Sarawak. Gentari Hydrogen is a subsidiary of Gentari Sdn Bhd, a leading provider of clean energy solutions, while SEDCE is a subsidiary of the Sarawak Economic Development Corporation. The HoA marks the joint development of a centralised hydrogen production hub in Bintulu, to be known as the Sarawak H2 Hub.

This is one of the sustainable energy initiatives by both parties to advance towards a carbon neutral economy. Sarawak is positioning itself to be a commercial hydrogen producer by 2027 with the vision of transitioning the state into a hydrogen economy; SEDCE is entrusted with spearheading Sarawak’s transition to a new energy landscape. The Sarawak H2 Hub, envisaged as a global-scale hydrogen production facility, aims to serve as the sole source of green hydrogen for downstream operations in the Bintulu division area. The joint venture entity will not only oversee hydrogen production within the region but will also optimise all hydrogen production projects within the region. Hydrogen_Energy

“Malaysia is well-placed to be a clean hydrogen hub in ASEAN, led by states such as Sarawak with its ample sustainable resources. At Gentari, we have been focused on pursuing collaborations with partners such as SEDC Energy to develop the local hydrogen economy, which will create economic value for the state while positioning the country as a hydrogen export hub,” said Michèle Azalbert, Chief Hydrogen Officer, Gentari.

“We believe that hydrogen is the way forward and we are committed to contributing towards Sarawak’s Hydrogen Economy Roadmap, in addition to the Malaysian government’s vision and objectives in the Hydrogen Economy and Technology Roadmap (HETR). Hydrogen’s role in decarbonising sectors like energy, transportation, and petrochemicals globally cannot be understated, and the demand for low carbon hydrogen-derivatives is a testament to its rising significance,” he added.

“This strategic partnership between SEDCE and Gentari for the Sarawak H2 hub will be a significant undertaking as this will spur more developments and attract new investments especially in the new energy sector. Hydrogen will play a role in the energy transition and as highlighted in the National Energy Transition Roadmap, Sarawak’s role in advancing this development is worthwhile to note. It resonates well with our approach to collaboration internationally and domestically,” added Robert Hardin, CEO, SEDCE. Hyundai NEXO_Sarawak Energy_Hydrogen Refuelling Station_Kuching_Malaysia

Gentari and SEDC Energy had previously entered into a Strategic Collaboration Agreement to explore potential collaborations in the development and provision of integrated clean energy solutions and contribution to policy and regulatory development in the state.

The HoA document exchange was held at the Borneo Energy Transition Conference (BETC2024) in Kuching, and witnessed by the Premier of Sarawak, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri (Dr) Abang Johari Tun Abang Haji Openg.

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