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Tan Chong Industrial Equipment Sdn Bhd (TCIE), the sole distributor of UD Trucks in Malaysia, has appointed Pelita Lumayan Sdn Bhd as the sales dealer for the Japanese truck brand in Melaka.

The latest addition of Pelita Lumayan has increased the number of authorised UD Trucks dealers to 7, further strengthening the network for UD Trucks particularly in the southern region in order to cater to the growing demand. In addition to truck sales, Pelita Lumayan will also be providing road tax and insurance renewal services, vehicle inspection, body construction as well as spare parts sourcing.UD Trucks_Pelita Lumayan_Melaka

“We are delighted to welcome Pelita Lumayan Sdn Bhd to be part of UD family. I am confident with their commitment and dedication to customer satisfaction, we will be able to develop strong clientele and bring positive experiences in providing the trucks the world needs today”, said Mr Say Teck Ming, Chief Operating Officer of Tan Chong Industrial Equipment Sdn Bhd.

One of its first activities as an authorised deler was to participate in the 10th Agroworld Expo which was held in June, at the Melaka International Trade Centre. Pelita Lumayan put up a display of 6 units of UD Trucks comprising of the heavy-duty Quester, medium-duty Croner and light-duty Kuzer.UD Trucks_Kuzer_Croner_Quester

“We strive to provide reliable and fuel-efficient transportation solutions to meet various local market needs and at the same time gives our best support to our customers,” commented Leong King Fook, Managing Director.

The Pelita Lumayan UD Trucks dealership is located at Lot 18, Jalan Taming Sari, 75400 Melaka. It is open from Monday to Saturday from 9 AM to 5 PM.

In Malaysia, customers of UD Trucks are supported by TCIE’s wide network of service centres and dealerships nationwide. These centres provide the UD Extra Mile Support services consisting of UD Genuine Service and Parts, UD Driver Training, UD Telematics Services and UD Trust Service Agreements. UD Trucks_Genuine Parts_Tan Chong Industrial Equipment

Hyundai-Sime Darby Motors (HSDM) has launched the Hyundai IONIQ 6 battery electric vehicle (BEV) in Malaysia. On offer are 2 variants i.e. Max RWD and Max AWD, and as the name indicates, is a choice of either single motor or dual motor.Hyundai IONIQ 6 Max_RWD & AWD

Both cars are powered by a high-capacity 77.4 kWh Lithium-ion Polymer battery (LiPo). The LiPo battery is basically similar to Li-ion except it uses a solid polymer electrolyte instead of a liquid, and also has a low self-discharge rate, lower weight and higher capacity.

For the IONIQ 6, the variants are essentially defined for those who choose driving range or performance. The Max RWD has a permanent magnet synchronous electric motor in the rear axle providing 168 kW and 350 Nm and giving a driving range of up to 614 km (WLTP). On the other hand, the Max AWD has a motor on each axle to give 239 kW and 605 Nm, and up to 519 km of range. As such, the 0 – 100 km/h sprint times differ i.e. 7.4 seconds vs 5.1 seconds respectively. However, top speed is capped at 185 km/h for both.Hyundai IONIQ 6_Charging Port

The IONIQ 6 is built with an 800 volt architecture. As the battery pack size is the same for both, they have the same charging times i.e. 7.1 hours via 11 kW AC (alternating current) charging to get from 0 – 100% SoC (state of charge). With DC (direct current) charging, it takes just 18 minutes with a 350 kW charger to go from 10% to 80%, or 73 minutes with a 50 kW DC charger.

The 2 variants are largely similar in features and equipment. Key features are:

  • Dual LED projector headlamps with Intelligent Front-Lighting System
  • Parametric Pixel LED rear combination lights
  • Rear spoiler with integrated brake light
  • Rack-mounted motor driven power steering
  • Powered front Relaxion seats with lumbar support
  • Leather upholstery
  • 64-colour ambient lighting
  • Dual 12.3″ screens with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay
  • Bose 8-speaker system
  • Wireless phone charger
  • Dual zone climate control
  • Remote start
  • Paddle shifters for regenerative braking control
  • Head-up display
  • Smart powered tailgate
  • Tyre Pressure Monitoring System
  • Electric Active Sound Design
  • USB ports – 1x Type A, 4x Type C
  • Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) @ 3.6 kW
  • 401 litres rear cargo volume
  • 0.21 coefficient of drag

As for the Hyundai SmartSense suite, both variants also receive the same pack with:

  • Blind Spot Collision Avoidance Assist
  • Lane Keeping Assist
  • Forward Collision Avoidance Assist (car / cyclist / pedestrian detection)
  • Forward Collision Avoidance Assist 2
  • Smart Cruise Control with Stop & Go
  • Manual Speed Limit Assist
  • Remote Smart Parking Assist
  • Parking Collision Avoidance Assist
  • Surround View Monitor

The most notable physical differences between the RWD and AWD variants is the wheel size and design i.e. 18″ Aero wheels vs 20″ Performance wheels, and a sunroof for the AWD. Other differences are the smaller front trunk capacity for the AWD i.e. 14.5 litres vs 45 litres, and the gross vehicle weight i.e. 2,410 kg (RWD) and 2,520 kg (AWD).

Likewise, retail price also differs, with the Hyundai IONIQ 6 Max RWD carrying a price tag of RM289,888 and the IONIQ 6 Max AWD priced at RM319,888. The cars will come with an 8-year (or 160,000 km) battery warranty. For an additional RM10,000, you can extend the standard vehicle warranty to 5 years (or 100,000 km whichever comes first) and gain 3 years (or 50,000 km) of free service. Additionally, the first 30 buyers will receive a complimentary 1-year Shell Recharge Gold membership to enjoy attractive charging rates at Shell.

“This is Hyundai’s 3rd EV model in Malaysia and its most advanced one yet, further solidifying Hyundai as an eminent EV brand and one that is committed to advancing cutting-edge, zero-emissions mobility for a new generation of discerning customers,” said Jeffrey Gan, Sime Darby Motors Managing Director of Retail and Distribution for Malaysia. The IONIQ 6 has won numerous awards including 2023 World Car of the Year, 2023 World Electric Vehicle of the Year, and 2023 World Car Design of the Year.

“We are extremely excited to bring the Hyundai IONIQ 6 to Malaysia. Besides setting new standards for Hyundai in terms of technology and efficiency, it looks like nothing else on the road. Its fastback profile and curvaceous shape are the result of extensive wind tunnel testing, such that it achieves a very low 0.21 drag coefficient. Not only is it the most aerodynamic Hyundai ever, it’s one of the world’s most aerodynamic vehicles on sale today,” commented Low Yuan Loong, HSDM Managing Director.

The Hyundai IONIQ 6 comes with 5 colour choices i.e. Abyss Black Pearl, Nocturne Grey Matte, Biophilic Blue Pearl, Dive Blue Solid, and Gravity Gold Matte.

 

Nissan New Retail Concept Showroom_Rupesh Shah_Christopher TanThe Nissan showroom in Puchong has been upgraded to the latest Nissan Retail Concept (NRC) and is now open. Officially opened by Mr. Rupesh Shah, General Manager, Aftersales, Dealer Network Development, NIBU – ASEAN, Nissan Motor Asia Pacific Co., Ltd., the latest NRC is in line with the direction to deliver an exciting brand experience for the customer.

The upgraded Nissan showroom incorporates the Nissan Corporate Identity with the new Nissan logo, in accordance with NRC-NEXT, the latest global Nissan Retail Concept to provide customers with an elevated brand experience.

The iconic red Nissan tablet with signature red handles, above the main entrance door, provides a bold statement and welcomes customers into the showroom which features a new level of premium comfort and convenience, with a modern interior layout and design. Visitors will be able to get up close to all the Nissan models on display, with the Star Car given a prominent spot. Presently, the Star Car at the Puchong showroom is the recently launched new Serena Hybrid J-IMPUL. Nissan Showroom_Display_Serena J IMPUL

The new showroom has a total built-up area of 7,502 square feet, and can feature up to 6 Nissan display vehicles. Inside, there is a cozy customer lounge with complimentary WiFi, a children’s corner, and a dedicated new vehicle delivery area. Also available to visitors is a fleet of test drive vehicles. Nissan Showroom_New Retail Concept_Customer Lounge_Leaf

Visitors are welcome to test drive the range of models available to fully feel the Nissan driving experience. Test drives can also be arranged off-site, at your home or office, depending on your convenience.

The ETCM Nissan Puchong showroom is located at No. 2G, Jalan Bandar Tiga, Pusat Bandar Baru, 47100 Puchong, Selangor. The showroom is open Mondays – Saturdays from 9 AM to 7 PM, and on Sundays and Public Holidays from 10 AM to 5 PM.

As for aftersales support, it is located just 5 minutes away at Tan Chong Express Auto Service (TCEAS) Puchong Jaya.

In line with the direction to strengthen Nissan’s overall presence in Malaysia, Edaran Tan Chong Motor (ETCM) is also proud to announce the NRC-NEXT showrooms upgrade of dealer partners, Kulai Public Motor Sdn Bhd in Johor and Ngu Brothers Motor Service Sdn Bhd in Sarawak.

Details of these dealerships are as follows:

  • Kulai Public Motor Sdn Bhd
    • No. 131, 132, 133, Jalan Selangat, Taman Saleng Jaya, 81400 Senai, Johor.
      • Showroom
        Monday – Saturday : 9 AM – 6 PM
        Sunday / Public Holiday : 10 AM – 6 PMNissan Dealership_Kulai Public Motor Sdn Bhd_Senai_Johor
  • Ngu Brothers Motor Service Sdn Bhd
    • No. 19C & 19D, Jalan Lanang, Pekan Sibu, 96000 Sibu, Sarawak.
      • Showroom
        Monday – Saturday : 8 AM – 5 PM
        Sunday / Public Holiday : 8 AM – 12 PM
      • Aftersales Service
        Monday – Saturday : 8 AM – 5:30 PM
        Sunday : Closed
        Public Holiday : 8 AM – 12 PMNissan Dealership_Ngu Brothers Motor Service Sdn Bhd_Sibu_Sarawak

For more information, visit www.nissan.com.my or contact the Nissan Customer Care Centre hotline (1800-88-3838).

The Ford Ranger Raptor 2.0L Bi-Turbo Diesel Show & Tell event is in Sabah this weekend (21 – 23 July 2023). The 3-day event is taking place at the Likas Complex Area in Kota Kinabalu, from 10:30 AM to 5:30 PM.

At this event, visitors will have the opportunity to test drive the Next-Gen Ranger Raptor 2.0L Bi-Turbo Diesel in a specially curated off-road route. You will experience the Baja drive mode and other off-road and 4×4 exercises, including high-speed dirt cornering, moguls, steep hill climb and descent, slide slope and stepped edges.Ford Ranger Raptor_Slide Slope

Seats are limited but you can still try signing up at https://fordlaunch.com/

Other highlights at the roadshow include test drives of the Next-Gen Everest Titanium 7-seater premium SUV, and Ranger WildTrak and XLT Plus. There are also exclusive Ford lifestyle merchandise and on-the-spot redemption of booking gifts, exclusively available at the event.Ford Ranger Wildtrak_Off-road

Anyone who books the Ranger Raptor 2.0L Bi-Turbo Diesel will instantly receive a special edition Baja 1000-inspired Raptor 2.0L Diesel T-shirt. Additionally, while the early bird booking deals have been taken up, between now and 31 August 2023, you can still enjoy the RM500 discount offer on a Ford Ranger Getaways upon vehicle delivery.

Furthermore, those who book any other Next-Gen Ford models at the event will receive a branded Ford Ranger Getaways light blue camping chair on the spot. Meanwhile, customers who book a Ford Ranger Getaways will go home with a Getaways steel tumbler.Ford Ranger Raptor_Stepped Edge

“The formidable, tried and tested 2.0L Bi-Turbo Diesel offers another great ownership option to our Next-Gen Ranger Raptor line-up. Sabah is a key market for us, which is why we have invested in creating a special off-road route for a more realistic test drive experience. We hope to connect with more customers, prospects and consumers in general at our event here,” said Turse Zuhair, Managing Director of Sime Darby Auto ConneXion-Ford.

Also, in the first half of 23 July 2023, SDAC is organising a Ranger Training Experience at the Likas Complex Area. A part of the Ranger Getaways programme, the Ranger Training Experience is curated specifically for Ranger and Raptor owners. It aims to help customers discover the full potential of their capable and versatile vehicles.

The training session will be conducted on a specially prepared course and those interested in watching the training participants tackle various off-road challenges across different terrains can catch the action between 11 AM and 1 PM on 23 July.

Further, Next-Gen Ranger and Raptor owners can use the special promo code on their Inner Circle Card to enjoy 30% discount on the Ranger Training Experience in Kota Kinabalu. To make a booking and redeem this discount, visit the Ford Ranger Getaways website.

To keep updated on schedules and locations of the Ford Experience Hub tour, visit the Ford Experience Hub webpage.

For more information about the Next-Generation Ranger Raptor 2.0L Bi-Turbo Diesel, WhatsApp Chat with a Ford Ranger Specialist.

Mercedes-Benz Malaysia Training Academy is now accepting applications for its Advanced Modern Apprenticeship programme for 2023. This programme is a platform for young Malaysians who aspire to start a career as Passenger Car Technicians with one of the world’s most prestigious companies.

The 3-year apprenticeship course encompasses a comprehensive curriculum aligned with globally approved syllabuses and training guidelines established by Mercedes-Benz Global Training, incorporating Mercedes-Benz Competence elements to ensure continuous development of trainees with the brand. The programme includes International Qualifications up to Level 3, and is acknowledged by the Department of Skills Development under the Ministry of Human Resources.Mercedes-Benz Malaysia Training Academy_Practical_Apprenticeship Programme

Since 1984, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia’s Training Academy has produced over 900 apprentices who now serve in various positions across different specialisations within the brand’s authorised dealer network. The programme has been receiving an average of 500 applicants annually since 2017.

As part of Mercedes-Benz’s global strategy and focus on electric vehicles, the brand has introduced a new profile for the Electric Vehicle Specialists known as Qualified High-Voltage Technician (QHV), as an additional module to train and prepare talents for the future demands of tomorrow’s mobility landscape.

Mercedes-Benz EQC_Electric Motor_Malaysia“In light of the ever-evolving technology within our Mercedes-Benz vehicles, the preparation for Battery Electric Vehicle transformation and integration into our Dealer Network, further encourages us to develop and nurture our skilled workforce to meet the increasing demand. By utilising our exclusive educational platform, which includes world-class state-of-the-art training facilities and rigorous guidelines, we can nurture certified Mercedes-Benz professionals who will contribute to our network and ensure the delivery of exceptional customer experiences,” said Edmin Naidoo, Vice President of Customer Services, Mercedes-Benz Cars, Malaysia & SEA II.

Upon completion of the Advanced Modern Apprenticeship programme, the candidates will be certificated in SKM Level 3, C&G VRQ Level 3, Qualified Maintenance Technician (QMT), Qualified System Technician (QST) / Qualified Bodywork Technician (QBT) / Qualified High-Voltage Technician (QHV), depending on the specialisation chosen. Mercedes-Benz Malaysia_Training Academy_Apprenticeship

They will also be equipped with a diverse skill set, including presentation skills, critical analysis, decision-making, and systematic thinking as an automotive technician specialising in systems and high-voltage technology.

Employment is guaranteed upon programme completion, with a minimum salary in the first year and incremental growth opportunities thereafter. The entire course will be conducted at the state-of-the-art Mercedes-Benz Malaysia Training Academy located in Bandar Kinrara, Puchong.

Interested individuals need a minimum of 3 credits in SPM or equivalent qualifications, including a Pass in English to apply for the programme. The submission deadline is 31 July 2023.

Visit https://www.mercedes-benz.com.my/passengercars/the-brand/mbm-apprenticeship/mb-apprenticeship.html or email mbm_apprentice@mercedes-benz.com for further information.

smart Malaysia has planned a series of previews of the smart #1 battery electric vehicle (BEV), including one at Setia City Convention Centre this weekend (22 – 23 July 2023), together with dealer Hap Seng Smart at the Electric Vehicle Expo.

With Mercedes-Benz design and smart engineering, the all-new smart #1 encapsulates smart’s purpose i.e. to design a smarter future, together.smart #1_EV

smart had also held exclusive previews at its headquarters in Subang Jaya for fans and owners of electric vehicles. Participants were given insights into the smart brand’s design identity as well as its technologies.

According to Chief Executive Officer of smart Malaysia, Zhang Qiang, smart is dedicated to offering premium products with futuristic design and advanced technology that perfectly suit modern urban lifestyles. Thus, these preview events play a crucial role of not only providing information on the car but also to enhance the awareness of smart’s plans in Malaysia. “By bringing people together, especially the EV enthusiasts and sharing knowledge, we hope to increase awareness and enable participants to explore our product firsthand by providing opportunity to get up close and personal with smart #1,’’ he added.

L-R: Mr. Sua Chek Hoong, Chief Information Officer; Mr. Zhang Qiang, Chief Executive Officer; Ms. Salawati Mohd Yusoff, Chief Branding Officer of smart Malaysia.
L-R: Mr. Sua Chek Hoong, Chief Information Officer; Mr. Zhang Qiang, Chief Executive Officer; Ms. Salawati Mohd Yusoff, Chief Branding Officer of smart Malaysia.

The participants were also offered opportunities to explore the vehicle’s features as well as its driving abilities on a test drive. smart #1_Preview

smart Malaysia is the official importer and distributor of smart vehicles in Malaysia and Thailand, and is planning to launch the smart #1 in the last quarter of 2023. In May, it had appointed a host of dealers as part of its preparations for the brand and product launch, and to ensure it has a network in place.

Besides that, the company has also been working to develop local telematics services to support the vehicle control, navigation (charging map and entertainment functions), and the smart customer app. This is to ensure that Malaysian customers get a seamless and localised experience.

The smart #1 continues to undergo road testing as part of smart’s research and development process, including a 20,000 km adaptive test to evaluate the vehicle’s performance, reliability, and safety in real-world conditions with a particular focus on adapting to the weather and road conditions in Malaysia.smart #1_Test Drive

“In addition, we conducted local integration and display head function tests, which included 12,000 test cases and conditions. And on the service side, we have successfully developed our aftersales network and online system. Over the past 6 months, we have extensively tested the service functions to ensure a smooth experience for end users,” explained Zhang Qiang.

“We have every reason to believe that smart will emerge as a leading EV brand in this country. The team is dedicated to ensuring that EV mobility ecosystem is fully prepared before the launch of smart #1 later this year. We will continue to share updates on the significant advancements made along the way,” he added.

Tesla has officially made its debut in Malaysia with the launch of the Model Y and an infrastructure plan. The Tesla Model Y is currently the world’s best-selling battery electric SUV, and it will be sold here in 3 variants i.e. Rear-Wheel-Drive, Long Range, and Performance.

The base RWD variant is powered by a single motor and has a driving range of up to 430 km while the Long Range and Performance variants are all-wheel-drive and have a driving range of up to 533 km and 514 km respectively (based on WLTP). 0 – 100 km/h sprint times are 6.9 seconds, 5.0 seconds and 3.7 seconds respectively.

All variants are outfitted with the Premium interior package though the Performance variant also includes the Performance Upgrade package. The Premium pack includes powered front seats, heated front and rear seats, heated steering wheel, independently folding rear seats, premium audio system with 13 speakers, 1 subwoofer, 2 amps, and immersive sound, ambient lighting, tinted glass roof with UV and IR protection, powered, auto dimming and heated side mirrors, custom driver profiles, HEPA air filtration system, 4 USB ports, 2 smartphone wireless docks, full vegan interior, and standard connectivity for 8 years (navigation only). The Premium connectivity package (includes satellite maps with live traffic visualisation, in-car internet streaming of music and media) is available on a 30-day trial subsequent to which a subscription is required.

Meanwhile, the Performance Upgrade pack adds increased top speed of 250 km/h (up from 217 km/h), 21″ Uberturbine wheels, performance brakes, lowered suspension, and aluminium alloy pedals.

Other standard items are the Pearl White exterior colour, all-black interior, 19″ Gemini wheels, 15″ touchscreen display, over-the-air software updates, and Basic Autopilot. Basic Autopilot involves auto steering, acceleration and braking for other vehicles and pedestrians within its lane. The Enhanced Autopilot pack adds Navigate on Autopilot, Auto Lane Change, Autopark, Summon and Smart Summon and is a cost option.

Other cost options include the exterior colour choices of Solid Black, Midnight Silver Metallic, Deep Blue Metallic and Red Multi-Coat, Black and White interior, and 20″ Induction wheels (not applicable to the Performance model).

Besides launching a vehicle, Tesla has also committed to Malaysia a comprehensive development plan for experience centres, service and support, as well as charging infrastructure in the country, to deliver a seamless Tesla ownership experience.

Tesla_Charging Port

Tesla designs, manufactures, deploys, owns and operates the world’s largest fast charging network. And it has built the first indoor Supercharger Station with a total of 8 Superchargers at Pavilion KL which will be commissioned soon. Tesla’s plan also includes opening multiple Supercharging stations at strategic locations to cover popular destinations across the country. With Tesla Supercharging, Model Y, operating at peak efficiency of 250 kW, can charge up to 120 km in just 5 minutes which enables more convenient cross-country travel.Tesla Superchargers

Furthermore, in line with Malaysia’s goal to promote low-carbon mobility and support the EV industry, Tesla customers will enjoy full import and excise duties exemption for newly registered zero-emission Tesla electric vehicles. Additionally, customers can benefit from 100% road tax exemption and individual income tax relief of up to RM2,500 on expenses related to EV charging facilities for the assessment year of 2023. Companies that rent non-commercial EVs may also claim tax deduction on the rental amount up to RM300,000 from the year of assessment 2023 until 2025.

The Model Y RWD starts at RM199,000 while the Long Range starts at RM246,000 and the Performance, from RM288,000. The prices quoted are exempt from import and excise duties, as well as road tax.

In addition, Tesla offers a battery and drive unit warranty of 8 years (or 160,000 km whichever comes first) for the Model Y RWD, and 8 years (or 192,000 km whichever comes first) for the Long Range and Performance models.

The Tesla Model Y is currently on display at Pavilion Kuala Lumpur, and will be there until 31 October 2023. Tesla is expecting to make deliveries to Malaysian customers in early 2024.

Edaran Modenas Sdn Bhd (EMOS), the subsidiary of Motosikal dan Enjin Nasional Sdn Bhd (MODENAS) involved in the distribution of motorcycles, spare parts and accessories, has introduced the rebranded 2023 models of the Z650, Ninja 650, and Versys 650. Kawasaki Motors Ltd owns a 30% stake in MODENAS.

The 2023 Modenas Z650 is a middleweight naked sportbike that features Kawasaki’s sugomi styling and performance. It comes with a powerful 649 cc parallel-twin engine which delivers strong low-mid range torque. The engine produces 68 PS @ 8,000 rpm and 64 Nm @ 6,700 rpm, and is paired with a 6-speed transmission.

2023 updates include:

  • Improved Ergonomics: The redesigned frame and revised riding position ensure enhanced comfort and control for riders of all sizes.
  • Advanced Electronics: The Z650 now features a full-colour TFT display that provides improved visibility and offers multiple customisable riding modes, including Sport, Road, and Rain.
  • Enhanced Handling: The updated suspension and improved chassis dynamics contribute to precise handling and nimble manoeuvrability.

The Modenas Z650 comes in Metallic Spark Black (retail price: RM34,500) and Metallic Matte Graphenesteel Gray (RM35,200).

Meanwhile, the Modenas Ninja 650 sports bike carries the same 649 cc parallel-twin engine to deliver exhilarating acceleration and exceptional fuel efficiency. The Ninja 650 is a favourite among sports bike enthusiasts for its combination of performance with everyday versatility. Notable enhancements include:

  • Striking Design: The Ninja 650 features a refreshed design with aggressive lines, LED lighting, and a sharper front fairing, exuding a bold and unmistakable presence.
  • Advanced Technology: Riders can enjoy the convenience of smartphone connectivity through Kawasaki’s Rideology app, enabling access to vital riding information and sharing data.
  • Upgraded Safety Features: The addition of ABS braking and traction control ensure enhanced safety and stability during various riding conditions.

The Ninja 650 is available in Metallic Matte Graphenesteel Gray (RM35,200) and Lime Green / Ebony (RM35,900).

Similarly, the 2023 Modenas Versys 650 also uses the 649 cc engine. This middleweight adventure bike is renowned for its versatility and adventure-ready performance, and offers a perfect balance of power and agility. The latest model introduces the following enhancements:

  • Adjustable Windscreen: Riders can easily adjust the windscreen height to minimise wind buffeting and optimise aerodynamics, enhancing long-distance comfort.
  • Advanced Suspension: The Versys 650 features an upgraded suspension system, providing improved stability and a smoother ride over various terrains.
  • Enhanced Styling: With redesigned bodywork and LED lighting, the Versys 650 boasts a more modern and aggressive appearance, capturing attention on and off the road.

There are also 2 colour choices for the Versys 650 i.e. Metallic Spark Black (RM38,400) and Candy Limegreen / Metallic Flat Spark Black (RM39,100).

Kawasaki_Z650“As promised, MODENAS will continue to bring to the market the latest Kawasaki motorcycles. We are committed to providing riders with motorcycles that inspire passion, performance, and unforgettable experiences. The introduction of the 2023 models of Z650, Ninja 250, and Versys 650 reflects our dedication to delivering cutting-edge technology, superior performance, and uncompromising quality to the Malaysian market”, said Roslan Roskan, Chief Executive Officer of MODENAS.

The 2023 Z650, Ninja 650, and Versys 650 will be available for purchase at authorised Kawasaki dealerships across Malaysia from end of July. Kawasaki’s extensive dealer network ensures that riders can receive exceptional service and support.

To learn more, visit the official MODENAS and/or KAWASAKI Malaysia websites i.e. https://modenas.my/v2/, https://www.kawasaki.com.my/home or contact the Toll Free Line (1-800-880-008) or WhatsApp Careline (+6019-570 8135).

Perodua President and Chief Executive Officer, Dato’ Sri Zainal Abidin Ahmad said that the company is on track to meet its 2023 sales and production targets of 314,000 and 330,000 vehicles respectively due to the ongoing improvement in production efficiency.

In the first 6 months of the year, Perodua has produced a total of 153,813 vehicles, which is a 17% increase compared with the 131,641 vehicles made in the same period of 2022. This achievement has resulted in a 13.6% increase in vehicle registration on a year-on-year comparison i.e. 144,690 vehicles, versus 127,343 sold in the first half of last year.Perodua_Showroom

Topping Perodua’s sales chart this year is the Bezza sedan, which saw a total of 40,555 units registered between January and June. This is followed by the Myvi with 32,319 units, and the Perodua Axia with 28,199 units.

Perodua Global Manufacturing Sdn Bhd Official Opening Assembly Line“The higher production and sales performances for the first half of 2023 were due to better supply of parts as well as improved production efficiency at our manufacturing plant,” Perodua President and Chief Executive Officer, Dato’ Sri Zainal Abidin Ahmad said.

“Among the notable improvements we have made include the faster tact time (the time it takes to produce a vehicle) from 1.35 minutes to 1.25 minutes at our Perodua Global Manufacturing plant (PGMSB),” he added.

On a quarter-to-quarter comparison, Perodua produced 69,013 vehicles in 2Q23, an increase of 1% from 68,316 vehicles in the same period last year. According to Dato’ Sri Zainal, the bulk of the production performance of this year so far was achieved in the first quarter of 2023 as Perodua went all out to meet its PENJANA obligations. For the 2Q23, Perodua registered 66,126 vehicles, slightly higher than the 65,719 vehicles in the same period of 2022.

Perodua Axia E_Front“Looking ahead, we expect both production and sales to continue their uptrend as demand for our vehicles remain healthy,” Dato’ Sri Zainal said. “For example, our recently launched Axia E was well received and our ready stock of 2,500 vehicles were completely distributed within 48 hours,” he said. Dato’ Sri Zainal added that while existing bookings were encouraging, there are potential challenges ahead, ranging from the risk of higher financing costs as well as intermittent supply shortages.

“These challenges notwithstanding, we stand firm on our targets, and we thank our valued customers for their support and patience. Our top priority is to continue reducing our customers’ waiting time as well as further improve our service quality,” he said. “We also thank Bank Negara Malaysia for keeping the overnight policy rate steady at 3% as this would help to ease financing cost of our customers, who consist of lower income earners,” Dato’ Sri Zainal said.

L-R: En Roslan Abdullah, Deputy CEO of PROTON; En Azrul Reza Aziz, CEO of MARii​; Datuk Wira Arham Abdul Rahman, CEO of MIDA; Dr Wei Mei, Senior VP & COO Geely Holding​; YB Senator Tengku Datuk Seri Utama Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz, MITI Minister​; Tan Sri Syed Faisal Albar, Chairman of PROTON​; Datuk Seri Abdul Aziz Shahar, Advisor Yayasan Al- Bukhary​; En Azri Zaharuddin, COO, Properties & Corporate Strategy DRB-HICOM; Mr Richard Wang, Vice President of Geely Automotive Group Purchasing Company; Dr Li Chunrong, CEO of PROTON.

DRB-HICOM and Geely have teamed up to attract investments to develop Malaysia’s future hub for Next Generation Vehicles (NxGV) in Tanjung Malim. The development of the Automotive High Tech Valley (AHTV) in Tanjung Malim forms the core of the signing of a Heads of Agreement (HOA) on 1 April 2023 between DRB-HICOM and Geely in Beijing.

Following this agreement, PROTON organised the Global Investors & Vendors Convention 2023 in Kuala Lumpur to bring government agencies and automotive vendors together to further the cause. The event saw the participation of over 200 attendees from government agencies, DRB-HICOM, Geely, and PROTON as well as local and overseas vendors, including a total of 42 automotive suppliers from China. PROTON_Global Investors & Vendors Convention_DRB-HICOM_Geely

Aside from providing a platform for potential overseas investors to meet relevant government agencies as well as potential partners from the local vendor community, the conference also showcased the progress made at the project site, the availability of government incentives and prospects for companies setting up new business at the AHTV, which is projected to eventually become an integrated automotive city.

The intention for AHTV is to be a centre for globally recognised tropical based research and development of high technology automotive components. Also planned is a research university aimed at expanding the capabilities of Malaysian automotive workers and helping the country become a regional leader in education for automotive engineering, information technology, artificial intelligence, and software development.

Tan Sri Syed Faisal Albar_Group Managing Director - DRB-HICOM_ Chairman of PROTON“The Global Investors & Vendors Convention 2023 is one of DRB-HICOM and Geely’s efforts to attract overseas investment in to AHTV and the country and together, we target to attract some RM32 billion worth of investments towards the project, including what has already been earmarked by PROTON. As the shift to New Energy Vehicles gathers pace AHTV will embrace the changing automotive landscape by offering an integrated ecosystem that will help Malaysia’s automotive sector in line with the direction of the National Automotive Policy (NAP) 2020, thus ensuring the country continues as vibrant as its neighbours,” said Syed Faisal Albar, Group Managing Director, DRB-HICOM, and Chairman of PROTON.

“Concurrently, our combined efforts as well as the strong interest shown by vendors from China will help attract support for the project from the Chinese government, which can lead to even more investments propelled in to AHTV and Malaysia. Geely’s collaboration with PROTON and their support for the project has already resulted in several investors and component suppliers operating in Tanjung Malim, and their existing high technology ecosystem is sure to play a major role in bringing the project forwards,” he added. DRB-HICOM and Geely target to attract investments worth RM32 billion into the AHTV project.PROTON_Tanjung Malim_Factory

Having operated its production plant for the last 20 years in Tanjung Malim, PROTON stands to gain from the development of the automotive hub by leveraging on the presence of high technology suppliers at AHTV. The company will also bring additional benefits to the surrounding area when it fully relocates its manufacturing and research and design facilities there by 2026, from Shah Alam. PROTON_Logo_R&D Centre

PROTON_Dr Li Chunrong_CEO“AHTV will be a regional NxGV hub, but PROTON shall continue to have a large presence there as the owners of the project, DRB-HICOM and Geely, are also PROTON’s shareholders. Therefore, the company will remain heavily involved in efforts to attract overseas investors to the project, performing R&D activities at AHTV as we further develop our offerings, and creating jobs as we work towards achieving our long-term goals. We also view this as part of PROTON’s commitment to being a custodian of the automotive industry in Malaysia as we seek to help nurture, develop, and grow the national ecosystem,” said Dr Li Chunrong, Chief Executive Officer, PROTON.

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