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Mercedes-Benz Malaysia has officially launched the all-new Mercedes-Benz GLC in the sole GLC 300 4MATIC form. Sold as a fully imported unit, the GLC has a retail price of RM429,888 (on the road without insurance).

The new GLC is now 60 mm longer (4,716 mm) but 4 mm lower than its predecessor to emphasise a more dynamic and powerful appearance. The track widths have also been increased by 6 mm at the front (1,627 mm) and 23 mm at the rear (1,640 mm). The vehicle width remains the same at 1,890 mm. Its aerodynamic characteristics have also been improved with the drag coefficient reduced to 0.29 from 0.31. Further, noise insulation has been improved to give it a more pleasant ride.

The GLC 300 4MATIC comes with the expressive sporty styling of the AMG Line, with polished aluminium roof rails and aluminium-look running boards with rubber studs. The AMG bodystyling consists of AMG front apron with air intakes and air curtains, and chrome trim elements and AMG rear apron. Other features include 20″ AMG multi-spoke light alloy wheels and a new 2-section rear light with a 3-dimensional look. The headlights are Mercedes-Benz Digital Lights which creates high-resolution and targeted light distribution according to driving conditions thus improving visibility but not blinding other road users.

Powering the GLC 300 4MATIC is a 2.0L turbo FAME engine (Family of Modular Engines) with output of 258 hp (190 kW) @ 5,800 rpm and 400 Nm @ 2,000 – 3,200 rpm. This is paired with a 48 V mild hybrid system with 2nd generation integrated starter generator which adds 17 kW and 200 Nm. The GLC 300 can sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in 6.2 seconds with speed topping out at 240 km/h.

Key components of the GLC’s dynamically designed suspension system are a new 4-link suspension at the front and a multi-link independent at the rear mounted to a subframe. The AGILITY CONTROL suspension provides you with optimum road holding without compromising on comfort. The passive selective damping system ensures a superior driving experience on any road surface because it automatically optimises the ride characteristics, damping effect and stabilisation.

In the cabin, the AMG Line trim includes ARTICO man-made leather upholstery in black as standard, MICROCUT microfibre, AMG sports pedals and sports steering wheel in nappa leather. There is also a 2-tone ARTICO upholstery in sienna brown/black available exclusively for limited CBU units.

Prominent on the dashboard is a 11.9″ floating central display that complements the 12.3″ high resolution multi-info display screen in front of the driver. The user interface is the latest generation MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) which offers, among other features, full-screen navigation with augmented reality. A camera registers the terrain in front of the vehicle and the central display shows the moving images and also superimposes virtual objects, information and markers. These include, for instance, directional arrows, lane-change recommendations and house numbers. The new GLC is also equipped with the new Parking package with 360-degree camera and Active Parking Assist with PARKTRONIC giving you a choice to park it on your own or hand the controls over to the vehicle.

As before, the new GLC is also designed for off-road driving. Standard equipment includes an off-road driving mode and DSR (Downhill Speed Regulation). In off-road mode, the GLC with 360-degree camera offers a “transparent bonnet”: The central display shows a virtual view under the front of the vehicle, including the front wheels and their steering position. This is extremely helpful as it enables the driver to recognise obstacles such as large stones or deep potholes in their path at an early stage. Mercedes-Benz_GLC 300_AMG Line

The new off-road screen uses the 2 displays for clearly arranged information, controls and functions. Among other things, the driver’s display shows inclination, gradient, topographical altitude, geo-coordinates and a compass as well as road speed and engine speed when operation is with an internal combustion engine. In addition, the central display shows the current position of the SUV on the terrain as well as the steering angle of the front wheels and, if rear-wheel steering is available, the steering direction of the rear wheels. All the driving functions relevant for off-road operation can be controlled very easily on one screen.

Furthermore, the dialogue and learning ability of the Hey Mercedes voice assistant is based on state-of-the-art algorithms which adapts itself to suit the wishes and preferences of the user. Music streaming providers can also be seamlessly integrated into MBUX for a more personalised music experience via the Burmester 3D surround sound system.

The luggage capacity has increased significantly in the new GLC to 620 litres (+70 litres). It also comes with the EASY-PACK tailgate as standard.Mercedes-Benz GLC_Boot_Luggage Space

The GLC is fitted with GUARD 360° Vehicle protection offering all-round monitoring of the vehicle’s surroundings to detect a break-in or tow-away. Other safety features include Active Lane Keeping Assist, Blind Spot Assist, Active Brake Assist, and PRE-SAFE system.

“As we welcome the all-new GLC to Malaysia, we are thrilled to continue its iconic success story into the future. As the best-selling SUV from Mercedes-Benz, the GLC has already found a strong following in Malaysia, with over 12,000 units sold since 2016. The GLC’s combination of dynamic driving enjoyment, modern design, and advanced features like the off-road cockpit and MBUX Augmented Reality navigation promise to thrill adventurers and families alike in Malaysia. With unparalleled control over challenging terrains, the new GLC sets a new standard in luxury SUVs, delivering a seamless driving experience,” said Sagree Sardien, CEO & President, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia. MBM is looking into local assembly of the GLC but details will only be available later on.Mercedes-Benz Malaysia_GLC_Sagree Sardien

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Last weekend, Maxim E-hailing participated in a career fair hosted by Perkeso with the aim of reducing unemployment in Malaysia. The event was held at Wisma United Chinese Association Hall in Sibu, where Maxim representatives encouraged job seekers to explore career opportunities with the company.

Maxim E-hailing offers not only e-hailing services but also courier and food and cargo delivery services. At the career fair, the company briefed fair visitors on its operations and services, as well as the legal requirements and the benefits that come with being a service provider for Maxim E-hailing.Maxim_Perkeso Career Fair_Sibu

According to Maxim, the response from the job seekers was encouraging, with many expressing enthusiasm for joining Maxim E-hailing and coming prepared with the necessary documents. Company representatives guided them through the registration process and introduced them to the Maxim community. Additionally, the new recruits were offered attractive car branding packages that could provide extra income.

One entrant shared his experience saying, “I saw the list of job openings at the Perkeso Career Fair on Facebook and decided to visit the Maxim E-hailing counter first. As far as I know, this job is flexible and offers unlimited income, so I came today to learn more about Maxim E-hailing.”

Maxim Malaysia_E-hailing App_CarThe company is encouraged by the positive response it had received during the Perkeso Sibu Career Fair and will commit to joining more public events such as this to share career opportunities.

Maxim is a mobile application based service currently operating in 18 countries. Maxim offers e-hailing, parcel courier, towing, jump start, cargo and food delivery. The Maxim application is available for download in the Apple App Store, Google Play Store, Huawei App Gallery and Samsung Galaxy Store.

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In conjunction with the Ramadan season, UMW Toyota Motor is running promotions on selected models and offering deals worth up to RM 8,000*, and 100% loan financing*. Some of the models on offer include the  Toyota Yaris, Corolla and Hilux. Concurrently, there is a Toyota Service Savers promotion with monthly instalments from as low as RM22.Toyota_Raya_2023_Promotions

Toyota owners can also expect a seamless car ownership experience with the Extra Mile aftersales services which include insurance and financing packages, servicing and maintenance packages, as well as roadside assistance and telematics.

On a side note, UMW Toyota Motor announced that it had registered 9,026 units of Toyota vehicles and 110 of Lexus for March 2023. This (total of 9,136 units) is only slightly less than the 9,297 units it had recorded in February 2023 for both brands. Collectively, this is the highest ever sales registered for a first quarter. The company’s total year-to-date sales at the end of March 2023 was 25,219 units, compared to 22,447 units for the same period in 2022, a growth of 12%.Toyota Vios_Slalom

In March, UMW Toyota Motor also launched the all-new Toyota Vios, its popular subcompact sedan that has  been a bestseller in the Malaysian non-national car market since its introduction in 2003. The new model boasts improved performance, quicker acceleration, and new technology, making it an even more compelling choice for customers looking for a reliable, efficient, and affordable car.

“The all-new Toyota Vios represents our commitment to provide our customers with the best vehicles and ownership experience. The all-new Toyota Vios is definitely a model that we are proud to put on the road and we hope many Malaysians will be able to enjoy driving the Vios,” said Datuk Ravindran K., President of UMW Toyota Motor.Toyota Vios_Nebula Blue

UMW Toyota Motor_Tree Planting_MangroveIn other news, UMW Toyota Motor held a tree planting event (UMW Green Shoots Initiative) hosted by the Malaysian Nature Society at Tanjung Tuan, Melaka in conjunction with Raptor Watch 2023. This initiative supports the National 100 Million Trees Planting Campaign and matches the 3 objectives of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDG). It is also aligned with Toyota Motor Corporation’s commitment to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050.

Volunteers for this project planted mangrove saplings to assist in the rehabilitation of the mangrove swamp ecosystem in Tanjung Tuan which can help offset CO2 emissions in Malaysia. This mangrove was affected by an oil spill in 2020. Up to 6,100 trees were planted by 250 volunteers made up of staff volunteers, students and teachers from University Putra Malaysia, Serdang and Politeknik Port Dickson, Taylor’s University as well as members of the public.

For more information on promotions and other initiatives, visit toyota.com.my or call the Toyota freephone line: 1-800-8- TOYOTA (869682).

*Promotion and process subject to change at the discretion of UMW Toyota Motor

*Terms & conditions apply

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National carmaker PROTON finished the first quarter of 2023 still on a good note as it achieved a 50.9% growth over the same period of 2022. In the first 3 months of 2023, PROTON sold a total of 40,287 vehicles. In the month of March, PROTON sold 14,573 vehicles (domestic and export), up 3.8% over February.

PROTON estimates its market share for March at around 18.7%, keeping it in 2nd place in the sales table. For the quarter, its market share is estimated to be 21.2%, which makes PROTON the biggest gainer in terms of market share, with growth of 4.5% compared to Q1 2022. Overall car sales in March had reached a new record high with Total Industry Volume (TIV) estimated at 78,000 units, breaking the previous high of 76,657 units in December 2022.Proton Showroom_Persona_Saga_X50

For PROTON, 3 of its models were segment sales leaders last month. One of them, the Persona, had a comeback of sorts due to disruption in component supply as well as the introduction of other models in the highly competitive B-segment sedan category. In March, PROTON sold 2,421 units of Persona, making it the segment leader for the 3rd consecutive month. In contrast, it delivered only 5 units in July 2022. Total sales for the quarter for the Persona was 6,773 units, an increase of 79.2%.

Meanwhile, the Proton X50 continues to be popular and has never been challenged since its introduction in October 2020. The X50 continues to lead not just the B-segment SUV class but it is also the best-selling SUV in Malaysia. PROTON sold 3,414 of the X50 in March, with total Q1 sales amounting to 9,668 units, a growth of 34.7% over the same period in 2022. The Proton Exora also remains sales leader in the C-segment MPV with 426 units sold in March.Proton X50_1.5 TGDi Flagship

Overall, the Saga continues to be the company’s best-selling model. For the 2nd consecutive month, it has broken the 6,000-unit barrier with 6,313 units sold. Total quarterly sales is 17,446 units, up 84.6% year-on-year. This growth however is skewed by the interruption caused by the severe floods at the beginning of 2022.

“The first quarter of 2023 has been exceptionally good for PROTON and our achievement of over 40,000 units sold is something we are justifiably proud of. However, we must consider that sales for the first 3 months were inflated because brands were rushing to deliver cars for bookings made during the PENJANA incentive period. This is especially true for this month as the deadline to deliver those bookings was 31 March 2023, helping to explain the record estimated TIV number of 78,000 units,” said Roslan Abdullah, Deputy Chief Executive Officer, PROTON.

“A better reflection of market sentiment would emerge by the end of Q2, but we remain confident of maintaining our sales momentum. We will be launching the Proton X90 soon and will also have more additions to the range later in the year. At the same time, we recently announced our commitment to expanding our future New Energy Vehicle (NEV) offerings and this will take the brand into new market segments as we seek out long-term growth to fulfill our 10-year plan. Yes, the runway to Malaysia being a hub for Next Generation Vehicles (NxGV) is still long but PROTON is excited to lead the automotive industry to new horizons in the future,” he added.Proton X90_Front_Grille_Headlights

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Traffic during the month of Ramadan can be quite a test with congestion peaking earlier and building up near Ramadan bazaars and night markets. Major roads, neighbourhoods, and popular spots that host Ramadan bazaars are often crowded with people and cars, and the lack of parking space (and double parking) is a perpetual issue.

Beam offers an alternative to free yourself from the traffic congestion and parking problems with its shared e-scooter service. With Beam, you can park further away from the chaos and ride the e-scooter to your destination, whether it’s to the neighbourhood ATM or bazaar to get your buka puasa meal.

A trip on Beam’s e-scooter can easily save you ample time on your round trips to the bazaar when compared to driving a car. You will also be doing a favour by not contributing to increased carbon emissions nor traffic congestion.Beam Mobility_E-scooters_MRT Station

With its compact size, accessibility, and availability in various Klang Valley neighbourhoods such as Ampang Jaya, Taman Melawati and Shah Alam’s Seksyen 7 and 14, Beam’s e-scooters allow you to travel quickly and safely around the city and urban areas, be it towards public transportation hubs or your local Ramadan bazaar. Beam’s e-scooters can also be of great use for Muslims travelling to and from their local mosque and surau to perform the nightly Terawih prayers.

From now until 23 April 2023, you can take advantage of Beam’s Ramadan Promotion to enjoy RM2 Beam Credit Cashback for every group ride taken.

Besides the Ramadan Promotion, Beam also confirms the availability of its e-scooters in 15 new areas around Petaling Jaya, to help improve the first- and last-mile connectivity of PJ’s vast suburban neighbourhoods, and encouraging people to make use of public transport.Beam_E-scooters_Bus Stop

The 15 locations in Petaling Jaya are:

  • SS2
  • SS4
  • SS5
  • SS6
  • SS7
  • SS21
  • Seksyen 13
  • Seksyen 16
  • Seksyen 17
  • Seksyen 20
  • Seksyen 21
  • Seksyen 22
  • PJU 1
  • PJU 5
  • PJU 8

New Beam riders can make full use of the promo period by downloading the app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.

You can stay up-to-date on Beam’s latest promotions and discounts through Beam Malaysia’s official Facebook or Instagram channels.

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The new Porsche Cayenne will make its debut at the Auto Shanghai show in China on 18 April 2023. And with the new Cayenne comes a groundbreaking concept from the sportscar maker i.e. the Porsche Driver Experience featuring a fully digital display, versatile individualisation and intuitive operation.

The Cayenne is the sportiest model in its segment – and its interior reflects this as well. A sporty ambience is combined with dynamic functionality, luxurious comfort and typical Cayenne design features. The new control concept in the new Cayenne is a clean design that emphasises width. The entire instrument panel, centre console and upper part of the inside of the door have been completely redesigned. The increased horizontal emphasis of the dashboard makes the interior look even wider.

The focus of this new experience is on the driver’s axle with the most important controls grouped around the steering wheel. This is supposed to create a new and even more intensive driving experience. The new Cayenne’s cockpit takes elements from the Taycan electric sports car such as the curved digital instrument cluster, the gear selector, and the latest-generation steering wheel. The relocation of the gear selector allows for a redesign of the centre console with room for a large air conditioning controller in a sophisticated black panel design.Porsche Cayenne_Curved Display_Instrument Cluster

The instrument cluster is now a fully digital, free-standing 12.6″ curved display that does not require a hood cover, thus giving it a modern, slimline appearance. Depending on the equipment level, the driver can choose from up to 7 views on the instrument cluster. The rev counter, online navigation, Night Vision Assist or 3D driving assistance system can all be selected to be in the foreground. A greatly reduced view and a classic mode are also available, the latter of which transfers the typical Porsche 5-tube instrument cluster design into the digital age.

A key feature of the new Porsche Driver Experience is the balance between digital and analogue elements. All the controls that are important to the driving experience are grouped directly around the steering wheel. Typically for a Porsche, the new engine start button is to the left of the steering wheel. The gear selector is now to the right of the steering wheel between the instrument cluster and the central display (left-hand drive layout). Porsche Cayenne_Gear Selector

Additionally, the new multi-function sports steering wheel comes from the 911 and has been completely reworked compared to the previous model, with a high-quality, modern and sporty design. The driving mode switch for selecting Normal, Offroad, Sport and Sport Plus modes directly on the steering wheel is now standard. Also, the new toggle button for selecting functions and designs in the instrument cluster is located directly on the steering wheel, as are the controls for the optional head-up display. Porsche has also put the completely redesigned control lever for the driver assistance systems directly on the steering wheel in the new Cayenne.

With extra room in the centre console, a new, large air conditioning control panel with analogue controls and more storage space can be placed there. The new air conditioning control panel on the centre console with its glass surface in a black panel design ensures a particularly high-quality look. Air conditioning settings can be made quickly and intuitively on the clearly laid out control surface. The combination of touch recognition and haptic feedback with mechanical air conditioning switches as well as a physical volume controller ensures functionality that is both haptically and aesthetically pleasing. Moreover, the elegantly designed air vents are vertically aligned in typical Cayenne fashion and for the first time, Porsche has designed all the air outlets in the cockpit without louvres.Porsche Cayenne_Centre Console_Climate Control_Air Conditioning

Meanwhile, the high-resolution 12.3″ central display is the control centre of Porsche Communication Management (PCM). As before, the driver can operate numerous driving and comfort functions here, as well as the standard online navigation and multimedia functions. The passenger will also have a new experience with a new level of interaction via the optional passenger display. This 10.9″ display for the passenger is a new option that allows the front passenger to take the strain off the driver, for example by operating the navigation or selecting a media service. Special foil ensures that the display cannot be seen from the driver’s seat. This means videos can be streamed on the passenger display without distracting the driver.

With the new In-Car Video function, videos can be watched directly in the PCM via the streaming provider Screenhits TV – both in the central display when the vehicle is stationary and on the passenger display while driving.Porsche Cayenne_Dashboard_Centre Console_Steering_Infotainment

Porsche has also further improved connectivity in the new Cayenne. A cooled smartphone storage area with an inductive charging function comes as standard. The cooling allows an optimised charging power of up to 15 watts. Extended integration of online services provides new ways of interaction, such as using the Siri voice assistant to operate vehicle functions. Also new are 2 USB-C ports in the front storage compartment and another 2 USB-C ports in the rear area of the centre console. All USB ports provide a fast charging function. The front ones also connect the smartphone to Porsche Communication Management (PCM). To pair a smartphone with the vehicle, all you have to do is scan the QR code displayed in the PCM on it. Numerous connectivity functions are then available, including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as well as integrated apps such as Spotify and Apple Music.

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The Audi RS 3 Sedan is now available in Malaysia. The latest addition to Audi Malaysia’s RS family is designed as a fusion of luxury and performance. The RS 3 Sedan comes with a bold looking exterior and widened body. The broad and striking front wings and aggressive air vents create a powerful impression, complemented by signature RS black Audi 4 rings, singleframe and honeycomb grille. Furthermore, the darkened Matrix LED headlights give it an aggressive appearance while offering a digital daytime running light signature and RS-specific coming home / leaving home and dynamic light sequences.

The Audi RS 3 Sedan is lauded by car enthusiasts as an ultimate driving machine. Given its motorsports heritage, the Audi RS 3 Sedan offers superior performance but combined with luxury features that satisfy even the most demanding drivers. The expressive design, powerful turbo engine, sport suspension paired with the legendary quattro all-wheel drive system, make the RS 3 Sedan the perfect vehicle for an adrenaline-filled driving experience.Audi RS 3 Sedan

The RS 3 Sedan gets power from a 2.5L 5-cylinder turbocharged TFSI engine that is capable of 400 PS and 500 Nm of torque. This 2.5L engine has won “International Engine of the Year” in 9 consecutive times, and enables the RS 3 Sedan to sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.8 seconds.

The award-winning engine is paired with a 7-speed S tronic transmission which combines the efficiency and sportiness of a conventional manual transmission with the convenience of a modern automatic. This is also the first Audi ever to include the RS torque splitter, which variably distributes torque between the rear wheels to provide greater lateral dynamics and stability. Moreover, the quattro all-wheel drive system ensures optimal traction and handling in any driving condition, distributing power between the front and rear axles to provide the best possible grip on the road. Additionally, the car’s adaptive suspension system offers a smooth ride, with better handling and cornering ability. In 2021, the RS 3 Sedan dominated the famous Nordschleife track in just 7.40.748 minutes, making it the fastest compact model in the world.

The car’s interior is equally impressive wrapped in black, red or green trim, and features stylish fine Nappa leather sport seats with RS honeycomb stitching and RS-exclusive steering wheel. The driver-centric cockpit ensures that the driver is always in control of the drive, with the virtual cockpit displaying key information on car performance. The driver also has control of the Audi Drive Select which offers different RS-specific driving modes to suit driving preference and road conditions.Audi RS 3 Sedan

The all-new Audi RS 3 Sedan is priced from RM646,990 to RM655,990 (with the Audi Assurance Package). The prices quoted include duties and sales tax. Meanwhile, the tax exempted RS 3 Sedan for Langkawi and Labuan retails at RM315,343.73 without the Audi Assurance Package, and RM324,343.73 with the Audi Assurance Package.

There are 6 exterior colour choices available i.e. Kyalami Green, Kemora Grey, Glacier White, Mythos Black, Python Yellow and Daytona Gray.

For more information on the RS 3 Sedan, visit the nearest Audi Centre. Alternatively, visit www.audi.com.my for full product specification and options, as well as further information on the Audi Assurance Package benefits, which include extended warranty and maintenance.

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The Setel app has integrated the DuitNow QR ecosystem into its list of features allowing you to now use the Setel app at any merchant which has the DuitNow QR code on display. This is part of Setel’s mission to redefine mobility and convenience and be more than just an app for refuelling experience at petrol
stations.

Setel_One-Tap Refuelling_PetronasThe integration of the DuitNow QR with the Setel Pay feature in the app will broaden cashless payment acceptance for the users. The advantage of this integration also stretches to existing DuitNow merchants, as it provides them access to active Setel users.

The Setel app can now be used to scan and pay at any merchant that displays the DuitNow QR code. Within the year, Setel users will be able to send and receive funds using DuitNow and generate their own DuitNow QR to facilitate fund transfers into their e-wallet.

Mazlin Erawati Ab Manan, Chief Executive Officer of Setel, emphasised the company’s customer-centric approach. “Our customers are at the centre of everything we do, and we have received constant requests to expand the convenience of using Setel app in their daily lives”. She further added, “The integration with DuitNow QR is a clear demonstration of our commitment to better serve our core customer demographic today – the motorist – while also making Setel more inclusive and accessible to a wider customer base across their retail purchases and other needs”.Setel_DuitNow QR_Steps

Gary Yeoh, Chief Commercial Officer of Payments Network Malaysia Sdn Bhd (PayNet), expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership: “At PayNet, we’re committed to driving financial inclusion and innovation in Malaysia. With this partnership between Setel and DuitNow, we are providing greater convenience and accessibility to Malaysians”.

From 30 March 2023 to 31 May 2023, Setel users will earn Mesra points for every payment via DuitNow. The points can then be used to redeem fuel and other exciting rewards.

The feature is easily accessible through the ‘Pay’ tab on the app homepage. Just tap on scan QR code, and once the scanner appears, just scan the DuitNow QR code, enter the payment amount, and submit.

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Mercedes-Benz Malaysia recently celebrated its dealer network, acknowledging outstanding dealers for their operational excellence in delivering the ‘Best Customer Experience’.  The Dealer of the Year awards ceremony gave out 7 awards, with each category showcasing the dealerships’ operational excellence in different areas. The categories include Best in Customer Services, Best in Financial Services, Best in Business Excellence, Best in Sales, Best in Customer Satisfaction Index (CSI) 5Star Rater, Most Improved Dealer, and the most coveted award of the event – Dealer of the Year 2022.

The highlight of the event was the Mercedes-Benz Malaysia Dealer of the Year 2022 award, which was presented to Hap Seng Star Kinrara as the dealership excelled across all the touchpoints of the business to achieve the highest overall score.Mercedes-Benz_Dearler of the Year 2022_Hap Seng Star Kinrara

“At Mercedes-Benz Malaysia, we place our customers at the heart of everything we do. We are immensely proud of our dealer partners’ unwavering commitment to delivering an exceptional customer experience. Congratulations to all the winners of the Dealer of The Year 2022 awards. As we look to the future, we remain committed to collaborating with our dealer partners to push the boundaries of excellent service and deliver an unparalleled luxury online-to-offline customer experience,” said Sagree Sardien, CEO & President, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia.

Hap Seng Star Consolidated_Group COO_Harald BehrendHarald Behrend, Group Chief Operating Officer of Hap Seng Consolidated Berhad and Chief Executive of Hap Seng Automotive Division said, “We are honoured to be named the Dealer of the Year 2022 and it is truly a testament to the commitment the team has put in to deliver the best-in-class retail experience to our valued customers. We are proud of what we have accomplished in 2022 and we will continue to put in our best effort for the years ahead.”

For the other categories, NZ Wheels Bangsar/KL Northeast took home the Most Improved Dealer award as well the Best in Financial Services award while Cycle & Carriage N-Juru/Bukit Tengah claimed the Best in Business Excellence award. Other Hap Seng dealerships which won were Hap Seng Star Melaka for Best in Sales, Hap Seng Star Setia Alam for Best in Customer Service, while Hap Seng Star Kota Kinabalu won the category of Best in Customer Satisfaction Index (CSI) (5 Star Rater).

Mercedes-Benz Malaysia has the largest network among the premium brands, with 31 authorised dealerships nationwide. The company is committed to providing excellent customer experience and delivering innovative products throughout a customer’s journey. The awards ceremony highlights Mercedes-Benz Malaysia’s dedication to customer centricity and providing a seamless online to offline luxurious customer experience in sales and services.Mercedes-Benz Autohaus_Showroom

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The Malaysia – China Business Forum National recently has yielded confirmation of PROTON’s foray into the New Energy Vehicle (NEV) segment. The event also involved a trip by Malaysian government officials to view a range of NEV models from the Geely Group at the Zeekr Intelligent Factory in Hangzhou Bay, Ningbo, China. Founded in 2021, Zeekr, is a premium electric automobile brand owned by Geely Automobile Holdings. It specialises in building electric vehicles and operating on a user-oriented enterprise philosophy, in line with it being a smart mobility technology company. The Zeekr Intelligent Factory maximises the application of IR4.0 and 5G connectivity to enable the highest level of manufacturing efficiency.Malaysia_PROTON_DRB-HICOM_Zeekr Factory Visit_Geely

During the visit, YB Senator Tengku Datuk Seri Utama Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz, Minister of International Trade and Industry (MITI), held discussions with Geely and PROTON regarding the NEV and Intelligent Technology strategy. PROTON will explore opportunities to accelerate NEV programmes, riding on Geely’s resources, in line with the Government’s aspirations to enhance the adoption of NEV. In particular, the goal is to offer affordable and practical NEV models which will help develop the local market as well as enhance the local manufacturing and ecosystem development of NEV.

Chairman of Geely Auto, Mr An Cong Hui (right) presenting a souvenir to Minister YB Senator Tengku Datuk Seri Utama Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz.
Chairman of Geely Auto, Mr An Cong Hui (right) presenting a souvenir to Minister YB Senator Tengku Datuk Seri Utama Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz.

PROTON has already started on this path with the impending launch of the Proton X90 mild hybrid SUV. This will be followed by the introduction of the smart #1 battery electric vehicle (BEV) by PRO-NET later in Q4 of 2023. Subsequent to this forum, PROTON will look at expanding its range of NEV offerings, including in segments new to the company. PROTON however, will not yet abandon the internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles just yet and these will remain the mainstay of the brand at least for the next few years.Proton X90_Project Team

“I am pleased to highlight after five years into their partnership, PROTON and Geely have made great strides in bringing new products, technology, and investment to Malaysia. Following the signing of the HOA in Beijing on 1 April, it is now clear AHTV has great potential to attract RM32 billion of investment and today’s visit to Ningbo demonstrates the the PROTON and Geely partnership will continue to prosper with the future implementation of NEV programmes,” commented Dato’ Sri Syed Faisal Albar, Chairman of PROTON. Geely had officially acquired a substantial stake in PROTON in 2017 from DRB-HICOM.

The event also saw the signing of a Heads of Agreement (HOA) document between DRB-HICOM and Geely that sealed their commitment to jointly invest, manage, and develop the Automotive High Tech Valley (AHTV) in Tanjung Malim into a smart city and hub for Next Generation Vehicles (NxGV). Over the next 10 years, AHTV is expected to attract investments worth an estimated RM32 billion.

DRB-HICOM_Group Managing Director_Syed Faisal Albar“We acknowledge the importance of Malaysia becoming the regional hub for NxGV products hence PROTON as the national brand will play an active role in contributing significantly towards achieving the nation’s goals. To be competitive, PROTON and the automotive ecosystem must invest in research and development (R&D), as well as advanced manufacturing processes. With progressive development of AHTV and constant engagement among stakeholders especially the Government of Malaysia, DRB-HICOM, Geely Group, PROTON and automotive ecosystem, these goals are within reach,” he added.

Since 2018, with support from DRB-HICOM and Geely, PROTON has invested over RM3.3 billion as part of its performance turnaround initiatives, which covers product development, new technology integration, manufacturing expansion and human capital development especially in new and emerging technologies.

With the development of the AHTV, more investments are planned, focusing on new products and technologies including new energy solutions and intelligent technologies. The pursuance of transformation initiatives is particularly important for the company hence the synergy with Geely in technology development is vital to achieve the strategic goals.

Thus far, various steps have been taken for PROTON to achieve its long-term goals. For instance, a permanent office has been established at the Geely Automobile Research Institute (GRI) in Hangzhou Bay to integrate all development activities between the engineering teams. The company has also already assigned 18 engineers to be based there for the first phase of R&D and NEV development programmes. More personnel will be assigned soon to help accelerate the transfer of technology.Zeekr X

“PROTON is now in the second half of its 10-year business plan. Besides the hiccups caused by 2 years of pandemic control measures, we are pleased with the progress made so far. Over the next 5 years, we aim to work even more closely with Geely and expand our offerings as the market for NEVs grows. This in turn will help develop the national automotive ecosystem and push Malaysia towards its target of being an NxGV hub,” commented Dr. Li Chunrong, Chief Executive Officer of PROTON.

“We will also expand our focus to include other aspects that support the industry. For example, charging infrastructure development is a priority for NEVs so we will optimize synergy with Geely group of companies to enhance the NEV infrastructure for PROTON and the ecosystem in Malaysia”.Smart #1_EV_Charging

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