Category Archives: Engear Volt

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Honda CB400 Super Four comes with E-Clutch technology and iconic steel tank

Honda unveiled two of its latest concept models in Japan: the Honda CB400 Super Four and CBR400RR Super Four.

Both new models were showcased at the 42nd Osaka Motorcycle Show 2026 held last week.

New Platform, New Engine

The CB400 Super Four and CBR400RR Four are built on an entirely new platform designed to prioritize riding pleasure.

Their engines are entirely new as well, featuring a four-cylinder inline design equipped with E-Clutch technology and a Throttle-by-Wire system.

For your information, E-Clutch technology simplifies gear shifting for riders without the need to pull a clutch lever. However, riders still have the option to operate it manually.

CB400 retains ‘Steel Tank’ tradition

In a special interview, Asato Kato, the designer, emphasized that the CB400 Super Four must retain its iconic identity, particularly the steel tank.

During the design phase, Kato explained that the choice of materials and the shape of these components is something that cannot be compromised.

Additionally, modern motorcycles feature more complex frame structures, making it challenging to create traditional tank shapes as seen in the past.

Because of this, most models use resin, but for Kato, a CB400 Super Four must have a steel tank.

“In my opinion, a steel tank is essential to beautifully represent that balance, and I will not give up even though it is challenging to produce.”

Kato also employed clay modeling techniques to demonstrate that his ideas can be realized.

The Best Machine Ever Produced

With a new engine and chassis combination, the CB400 Super Four offers benefits such as more powerful performance, a lightweight chassis, and improved handling.

As it approaches the final stages of development, the machine has also been personally tested by the R&D team at a secret location in Japan.

“This bike is the best!” This is the feedback collected from the team of designers, engineers, and test riders who have personally evaluated the CB400 Super Four.

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2026 Porsche Carrera Cup Asia: Simulator racer Naquib Azlan selected to represent Team Porsche Malaysia

Team Porsche Malaysia will feature local talent Naquib Azlan in the 2026 Porsche Carrera Cup Asia, competing in the PRO category.

The champion of the 2025 Porsche Esports Sprint Challenge Malaysia in the Driven Dreamers category will drive the Porsche 911 Cup (992.2) #17.

Naquib Azlan’s participation is supported by Earl Bamber Motorsport (EBM) and Axle Motorsports.

From Sim Racing to the Real Track

The 26-year-old racer began his career in simulation racing in 2020. He then transitioned to real car racing through a program organized by Toyota Gazoo Racing Malaysia.

After being crowned the Driven Dreamers champion last year, Naquib was selected to join the Porsche Carrera Cup Asia Talent Pool.

Adding to his achievements, Naquib recently set the fastest lap record (1:35.391) at the Zhuhai International Circuit during the official PCCA 2026 test sessions held from February 28 to March 1.

“My first introduction to motorsports was through sim racing, and I was hooked from the very beginning. Competing in the Porsche Esports Sprint Challenge Malaysia opened doors I never imagined possible.

“To now race with Porsche Malaysia, which has a strong racing heritage, is an absolute honour. I’m grateful for the belief and support from the team at Porsche Malaysia, as well as the guidance from Axle Motorsports throughout this journey. I look forward to representing Malaysia and Porsche on the international stage,” said Naquib Azlan, race driver for Team Porsche Malaysia.

New Livery for Team Porsche Malaysia

The 911 GT3 Cup (992.2) that Naquib will drive this year features a new livery reflecting the Sime Motors brand.

The car’s roof is adorned with the official layout of the Porsche Experience Centre Singapore, which is set to open in 2027.

This facility, the first of its kind in Southeast Asia, promises a comprehensive track experience for customers and enthusiasts.

It is expected to further strengthen the presence of the Porsche brand and the motorsport culture in the region.

Opening Round of PCCA in Shanghai

The first round of the Porsche Carrera Cup Asia 2026 will take place in Shanghai, China on March 14-15.

The Sepang International Circuit will host rounds 9, 10, and 11, featuring two sprint races and one endurance format race.

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2026 Nissan Serena e-Power set to launch this March, priced between RM160k-RM180k

Edaran Tan Chong Motor Sdn Bhd has announced that the new Nissan Serena e-Power model will be launched in March 2026.

This locally assembled (CKD) model will be sold at a price range of RM160,000 to RM180,000.

During a test drive organized with media representatives, Christopher Tan, the Executive Vice President of ETCM, announced that they have received 400 bookings for the MPV model thus far.

The Nissan Serena e-Power 2026 will be offered in Premium Highway Star specification.

 

e-Power System

It is powered by the e-Power system, which consists of a 1.4-liter engine that acts as a power generator for the electric motor (163 PS/315 Nm), paired with a 1.769 kWh lithium-ion battery pack.

With a single-speed automatic transmission, the Serena e-Power offers fuel consumption as low as 5.4 liters per 100 km, with a driving range of up to 1,000 km.

It also features a one-pedal driving function or e-Pedal.

The Serena e-Power utilizes a MacPherson strut setup at the front and a torsion beam for the rear axle.

 

Exterior

In terms of exterior design, the Serena e-Power features a V-Motion front grille, three-layer LED projector headlights with Auto Levelling function, boomerang-style LED taillights, and automatic sliding doors on both the left and right.

Standard equipment includes 16-inch wheels wrapped in 205/65R16 tires, which prioritize both comfort and presence.

The Serena e-Power also inherits the Dual Back Door feature from the previous Serena model.

 

Interior

Cabin features include seats with Zero Gravity technology, black Nappa leather upholstery, second-row captain’s chairs complete with armrests and four-way sliding functions, a foldable table for second-row passengers, and an additional 14-inch display screen.

There is also a 12.3-inch TFT display, a 12.3-inch infotainment screen, support for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a climate control panel with a digital display, wireless charging slots, and six USB ports.

 

Safety

The Serena e-Power is equipped with six airbags, ABS, EBD, Brake Assist, Hill Start Assist (HSA), ISOFIX anchors, Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC), and Traction Control System (TCS).

Advanced safety features include a semi-autonomous ProPilot system, Intelligent Around View Monitor (IAVM), Smart Moving Object Detection (MOD), Intelligent Forward Collision Warning (IPFCW), Intelligent Emergency Braking (IEB), Driver Attention Warning (IDA), Lane Departure Warning (LDW), Blind Spot Warning (BSW), and Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA).

 

Colour Options

The Nissan Serena e-Power will be available in four two-tone colour options: Turquoise Blue, Dark Metal Gray, Brilliant White, and Diamond Black, all featuring a black roof.

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iCaur V23 previewed in Malaysia – expected launch in Q4 2025, from RM145,000

iCaur Malaysia has unveiled its second electric SUV model, the iCaur V23, which is set to launch in the fourth quarter of this year (Q4 2025).

The estimated starting price ranges from RM145,000 to RM155,000.

Here are some key facts you should know:

 

Variants

Two variants will be available: 2WD and iWD.

The 2WD variant is powered by a single rear-wheel electric motor, producing 136 PS and 180 Nm, paired with a 59.9 kWh LFP battery.

The iWD variant features a dual-motor setup with an intelligent all-wheel-drive system, delivering a total power of 211 PS and 292 Nm, supported by an 81.8 kWh NMC battery.

The range can reach up to 401 km for the 2WD version and up to 501 km for the iWD variant.

 

Charging

The iCaur V23 supports standard AC charging of up to 6.6 kW.

Fast charging capabilities vary, with the 2WD variant supporting DC fast charging of up to 85 kW and the iWD variant up to 104 kW.

This SUV also includes a vehicle-to-load (V2L) function of up to 3.3 kW, making it suitable for outdoor activities.

 

Chassis

In terms of dimensions, the iCaur V23 measures 4,220 mm in length, 1,915 mm in width, and 1,845 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,735 mm.

This means it is actually shorter compared to the previously launched iCaur 03.

The suspension features a MacPherson strut in the front, supported by a multi-link setup in the rear.

The V23 employs a unibody chassis influenced by the design of several iconic off-road SUVs from earlier eras, including the Land Rover Defender, Toyota Land Cruiser, and Mercedes-Benz G-Class.

Notable features include round headlights, 19-inch wheels (21 inches for the iWD variant), side steps, and a side-opening rear door equipped with a small storage box.

 

Cabin

The V23 cabin presents a minimalist design but is equipped with several large, easily accessible physical buttons and knobs.

It also features a 15.4-inch display screen with support for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as a 540-degree transparent chassis camera and a dedicated button for driving mode selection.

Safety

The V23 is equipped with an Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) Level 2, which includes features such as adaptive cruise control (ACC), lane departure warning (LDW), and autonomous emergency braking (AEB).

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Jaecoo Malaysia explains the advantages of PHEV over HEV

Jaecoo recently previewed its latest Jaecoo J7 Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) premium off-road SUV in Malaysia at its first experience pop-up store, with over 3,000 visitors recorded in a span of just five days.

While PHEVs and traditional Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEVs) are common, Jaecoo’s interaction with patrons at the PHEV preview revealed an opportunity to enhance understanding about PHEVs which can help drivers make informed decisions.

While both PHEV and HEV technologies contribute towards lower carbon emission mobility, PHEVs are designed to provide superior flexibility, efficiency, and driving experience in key scenarios.

Longer range on pure electric power

PHEVs allow for significantly longer trips on electric power alone compared to HEVs, which rely on a much smaller battery capacity. For example, in daily commutes or city driving, PHEVs can travel up to 40 to 50 kilometers (depending on the model) without using a drop of petrol. This means drivers can experience emission-free, quieter, and more efficient driving for most short-distance trips, making it ideal for urban environments. The J7 PHEV’s battery range of 88 km is based on the Worldwide Harmonised Light Vehicle Test Procedure (WLTP).

Home charging convenience

PHEVs offer the flexibility to charge the vehicle at home or at public charging stations. HEVs, on the other hand, can only recharge their battery through regenerative braking or engine power, limiting their electric driving potential. With a PHEV, owners can wake up every morning to a fully charged battery, ready to handle most daily journeys on electricity alone, greatly reducing fuel consumption and emissions.

Enhanced performance with dual power

PHEVs allow for a seamless switch between electric and petrol power when needed, offering superior acceleration and performance compared to HEVs. In situations where instant torque is required, such as overtaking or navigating steep inclines, the electric motor of a PHEV can instantly provide additional power, making it a more versatile option for both city driving and long-distance travel.

Fuel independence for short journeys

In contrast to HEVs, which must use petrol after a short period of electric driving, PHEVs can run on pure electric power for most of the shorter daily trips, significantly reducing fuel dependency. This gives drivers the freedom to choose electric for local trips and petrol for long-distance travel, without compromising on performance or convenience.

Environmental impact

Since PHEVs can operate for extended periods without relying on the internal combustion engine, they contribute to reduced emissions, especially amidst concerns around air quality. HEVs, while fuel-efficient, still require constant engine engagement, making PHEVs the cleaner choice in many driving scenarios.

Set to be launched this year, the J7 PHEV All-Wheel Drive and Two-Wheel Drive variants are estimated to be RM180,000 and RM170,000 respectively.

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These celebrities are banned from buying a Ferrari

From its inception until this very day, every car that has been made by Ferrari has been in high demand. So it is little wonder that the supercar manufacturer from Maranello, Italy has the power to choose who buys its cars.

Quite extraordinary, if you ask me. But that is the reality for a brand that puts image and prestige above all else.

Believe it or not, Ferrari actually maintains a list of famous individuals who are prohibited from buying its cars. Here are some of the big names on that list:

Justin Bieber

‘Beliebers’ will surely remember that the famous pop star once bought a Ferrari 458 Italia somewhere in 2011. He sent his car to West Coast Customs to get it wrapped in Electric Blue, and fitted with a Liberty Walk body kit and custom logos. That was his first strike.

After partying in Beverly Hills, Bieber actually lost his car for over three weeks. Shortly after it was found, the Baby singer auctioned it off for around $435,000 without Ferrari’s permission.

Floyd Mayweather Jr.

In similar fashion to Bieber, Mayweather Jr. was banned from buying a Ferrari because he violated Ferrari’s ownership rules and conditions that prohibit owners from selling their cars in the first year.

However, this is unlikely to be a huge problem for Mayweather Jr., as he is the world’s wealthiest boxer with a net worth of approximately $450 million to date. With that kind of moolah, he has access to many other luxury cars on the market – some might be even better than what Maranello has to offer.

Kim Kardashian

Whether it’s true or not that Kim Kardashian is banned from buying Ferrari is still unclear, but the story came to surface because she was seen driving a white Ferrari 458 Italia reportedly gifted by fugitive Malaysian businessman Jho Low.

Due to the negative publicity stemming from the 1MDB scandal, Kim Kardashian’s name is said to have been added to an unofficial list of individuals prohibited from buying a Ferrari.

Deadmau5

Some 10 years ago, Canadian EDM artist Joel Zimmerman, famously known as Deadmau5, wrapped his Ferrari 458 Spider with a Nyan Cat livery. He also replaced the brand’s horse logo with a cat logo and changed the ‘Ferrari’ lettering to ‘Purrari’.

Not only that, Zimmerman also sold the car through Craigslist less than a year after owning it. As you might expect, this angered Ferrari, which subsequently sent a cease and desist letter to Zimmerman.

Tyga

According to reports, Tyga once leased a Rolls-Royce Ghost and a Ferrari 458 Spider around 2016. However, the famous rap singer reportedly failed to make payments before the leasing agreement expired, resulting in the repossession of both cars.

As if that’s not bad enough, the company who leased out both cars took Tyga to court to sue the rapper for the unpaid fee said to be around hundreds of thousands of dollars. Needless to say, the whole debacle did not impress Ferrari.

50 Cent

Another rap star who ‘successfully’ put his name on Ferrari’s blacklist is 50 Cent, also known as Curtis Jackson. In 2020, Jackson took to social media to complain about his Ferrari 488 that wouldn’t start due to a dead battery.

In the post, Jackson said he didn’t want the car anymore and would replace it with a smart car. Bad publicity such as this will put you in Ferrari’s bad books.

Chris Harris

Those who do not follow the automotive sector may not have the slightest idea who Chris Harris is, but in the world of cars, Harris is considered an esteemed journalist.

The dispute between Harris and Ferrari stemmed from an article titled ‘How Ferrari Spins,’ published on the Jalopnik website in 2011. In the article, Harris claimed that Ferrari modified their test cars to ensure they receive outstanding scores in magazine performance tests.

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Xiaomi SU7 breaks cover – 673 PS, 0-100 kmh in 2.78s, 800 km range

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AS you may be aware, several smartphone companies are beginning to join the hotly contested electric vehicle race.

One of them is Xiaomi, which has just introduced its first EV called the SU7. It is dubbed as a “full-size high-performance eco-technology sedan.”

Speaking of size, the SU7 measures in at 4,997 mm in length, 1,963 mm in width, 1,440 mm in height, and has a wheelbase of 3,000 mm. This makes it slightly larger than its two closest competitors, the Porsche Taycan and Tesla Model S.

The SU7 is built on Xiaomi’s Modena platform, offering a 400-volt and 800-volt architecture, with three options for electric motors, confusingly called the HyperEngine V6, V6s, and V8s.

For the exterior design of the SU7, Xiaomi has hired the services of former BMW design chief Chris Bangle as the design consultant. Thanks to his magic touch, the EV has a drag coefficient of just 0.195, making it one of the most aerodynamic cars on the market.

As for the interior, the Chinese smartphone giant has utilised its technological expertise to equip the SU7 with the latest gizmos from its armoury.

This includes a 16.1-inch touchscreen and a smart autonomous driving system comprising of one LiDAR, 11 HD cameras, three radars and 12 ultrasonic radars.

The SU7 will be offered in two variants: base and Max. The base variant is powered by the HyperEngine V6, which delivers 299 PS and 400 Nm.

This allows it to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.28 seconds and achieve a maximum speed of 210 km/h. This variant comes with a 73.6 kWh battery offering a driving range of up to 668 km.

Meanwhile, the SU7 Max features the HyperEngine V8s with a pair of electric motors generating 673 PS and 838 Nm. It only takes 2.78 seconds to reach 100 km/h and can accelerate to 265 km/h.

With a 101 kWh battery, it can be driven up to 800 km on a full charge. Since this variant utilizes an 800-volt architecture, it can regain a range of 220 km in just five minutes or 390 km in 10 minutes.

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Geely Galaxy E8 launched in China – 800 volt battery, up to 665km range

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Geely has just launched the Galax E8 in China, which is the third model in the Galaxy series. This sedan EV is built on Geely’s Sustainable Experience Architecture (SEA) platform with a sleek and sporty body design.

The design is not just for aesthetics, as the Galaxy E8 reportedly has a drag coefficient of only 0.199, lower than the Mercedes EQS (0.202) and Nio ET7 (0.208).

As usual, there’s no front grille, but the Geely Galaxy E8 features sharp headlamps and DRL. The side profile is free of any protruding objects that would disrupt airflow, and the door handles are retractable.

The interior of the cabin is striking, with a large 45-inch 8K resolution screen that stretches across the dashboard. Chinese companies seem to favor these large screens.

The Galaxy E8 also comes with a flat-bottomed and flat-top steering wheel, meaning it’s not circular. The central console is compact with six buttons, a rotary knob, a wireless charger pad, and storage space. Other features include ambient lighting and a panoramic sunroof.

For the mechanical aspect, the Geely Galaxy E8 is available in several configurations. The first is a 400-volt version with a 62kWh lithium phosphate (LFP) battery, a 272hp rear axle motor, and a driving range of 550km.

Another version has a 272hp motor but is equipped with a larger 76kWh battery pack, extending the driving range to 665km.

The highest variant has an 800-volt battery, a 224hp front motor, a 421hp rear motor, and a 76kWh battery pack. This variant can be driven up to 665km on a single charge.

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Audi Q8 e-tron edition Dakar boasts off-road ruggedness

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AUDI will be competing in this year’s Dakar Rally with a RS Q e-tron designed specifically for the gruelling endurance race. To mark its participation, the automekr has introduced the new Q8 e-tron edition Dakar, inspired by the rally car.

According to Audi, only 99 units of the edition Dakar will be made available. It will open for booking in the first quarter of this year, with a starting price of 120,000 euros (RM608,211) in Germany.

The Q8 e-tron edition Dakar is based on a Q8 advanced 55 e-tron quattro. It is equipped with a 114 kWh battery offering a driving range of up to 487 km. The battery powers a pair of electric motors making 402 hp (300 kW) and 664 Nm of torque.

With standard tyres, the Q8 e-tron edition Dakar can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.8 seconds. All-terrain General Grabber AT3 tyres increases the century sprint time by a tenth of a second to 5.9 seconds. The top speed is limited to 200 km/h.

While the chunky tyres render the SUV a little slower, they provide a higher ground clearance (+31 mm) and better grip on rocky or snowy surfaces.

The edition Dakar also comes standard with a roof rack capable of carrying up to 40 kg of load. Included are a bag for the rack and straps for attaching accessories.

In the base setting, the vehicle has a ground clearance of 206 mm. At higher speeds, it gradually lowers – by 15 mm at 85 km/h, 17 mm at 100 km/h, and 13 mm at 120 km/h.  Audi says the control strategy for the air suspension was revised for off-road driving.

Meanwhile, its approach, ramp, and departure angles are 20, 26, and 19 degrees, respectively. Audi also claims a water wading depth of up to 300 mm.

The four rings brand also offers plenty of optional acessories, which include decals inspired by the RS Q e-tron, ambient light package plus, second high-voltage heater to monitor heating power, Bang & Olufsen Premium Sound System with 3D sound and virual side mirros.

In addition to the AT rubbers, each unit of the Q8 e-tron edition Dakar comes with a set of summer tyres along and 20-inch wheels in 5-V spoke S design.

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1.6 million Tesla cars recalled in China over steering software issue

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The authorities in China have directed Tesla to recall approximately 1.6 million electric vehicles in the country. The recall is aimed at updating the Autopilot driving assistance function to reduce the risk of accidents.

This is due to the Autosteer system within the Autopilot function is prone to misuse by most Tesla drivers. The solution involves adding audio and visual warnings when the function is activated or deactivated.

According to Reuters report, the recall campaign involves all Tesla models sold in China, including the Tesla Model S, Model X, Model 3, and Model Y.

The Autopilot function will be enhanced through over-the-air updates, eliminating the need for owners to send their cars to Tesla service centers.

Additionally, Tesla is also updating the door locking software involving 7,538 units of Model S and Model X in China due to concerns about doors opening automatically during accidents.

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Pre-production Porsche Taycan is 18 secs faster than Model S Plaid around Nurburgring

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Porsche is currently working on a new variant of the Taycan that offers better on-track performance compared to existing variants.

Although it’s not quite ready yet, the unnamed new variant has already put an impressive display of track prowess with a lap time of 7:07.55 minutes on the Nurburgring Nordschleife circuit.

The lap time clocked by the pre-production car is a whopping 26 seconds ahead of the record set by the Taycan Turbo S and almost 18 seconds quicker than that of the Tesla Model S Plaid.

To illustrate the speed of the new variant at the Nurburgring, Porsche said it would finish lapping the 20.8 km circuit 1.3 km ahead of the Taycan Turbo S.

Driven by Lars Kern, the pre-production Taycan was equipped with a roll cage and bucket seats for safety reasons.

Details about the powertrain are undisclosed, but rumours suggest the variant comes with a tri-motor setup capable of generating a total system output of up to 1,000 hp.

An extra motor on the rear axle allows for better thermal management and advanced traction control.

As for the design, official images released by Porsche show a more aggressive design front bumper, a lip spoiler, as well as a rear spoiler. The wheels also appear to have a different design from the existing options.

According to Porsche, an onboard video of the complete lap will be published in mid-March.

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Premium EV brand Zeekr to launch in Singapore this year

ZEEKR, the premium electric vehicle brand from Geely, is set to enter the Singaporean market in 2024, The Business Times reported.

According to BT, sales will commence in the first half of this year, with first deliveries expected to take place sometime between June and July.

Representing Zeekr in Singapore is Premium Automobiles Group, which has been appointed as the official distributor of the EV brand. Premium Automobiles also serves as the official distributor of Audi in the republic.

To mark its arrival, Zeekr will be launching the 009 and X, both built on the Scalable Experience Architecture (SEA) platform developed by Geely.

The 009 is a large MPV with a length of up to 5.2 meters and a cabin capable of accommodating up to six passengers. Equipped with a 140-kWh battery, it is capable of covering a distance of more than 800 km on a full charge.

The X was introduced in February 2023 as the third model in Zeekr’s lineup. Technical details are scarce, but the compact crossover reportedly shares the same powertrain as the Smart #1, indicating that it may be offered with a 66 kWh battery with a range of 400 km.

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10 best EVs launched in Malaysia in 2023 – Part 2

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THE curtains have closed on the year 2023, which seemed like a busy period for the Malaysian electric vehicle market, thanks to the influx of new offerings coming on to the local EV scene.

So without further ado, let’s revisit the 10 most exciting EVs launched in our market throughout last year. Not that the cars in this list is not sorted in order.

Tesla Model 3 Highland

The Model 3 facelift, also known as the Highland, was launched shortly after Tesla marked its entry into Malaysia with the Model Y.

The electric sedan is arguably the most anticipated EV of the year, and this is not surprising as it looks even better than before and comes with various improvements and competitive pricing.

Unfortunately, we have yet to try the new Model 3 but we have a feeling that the driving experience will be rather different from other EVs with the omission of the gear selector and turn indicators.

Audi e-tron GT

Unlike the Porsche Taycan, the Audi e-tron GT can definitely make you feel you’re Mr Stark himself.

The e-tron GT is easily one the most attractive EVs on the market, and its on-track performance has also been proven during a test drive session at the Sepang International Circuit a while ago.

For the Malaysian market, you can get the e-tron GT in the base version or the RS version, which has higher power output, a rear differential lock, rear-wheel steering, and an adaptive air suspension system.

Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV

Mercedes-Benz Malaysia has been actively expanding its EQ electric vehicle lineup, this time with the launch of yet another model, the EQS SUV.

Available in the sole EQS 580 4Matic AMG Line variant, it is equipped with a 107.8 kWh battery that offers a range of up to 615 km on a full charge. Rapid DC charging at 200 kW allows the battery to be charged from 10% to 80% in 31 minutes.

There’s a long list of standard features on board, which include AMG Line body kit, 22-inch AMG wheels, MBUX infotainment system with Hyperscreen, and Airmatic air suspension system.

BMW i7

Say what you want about exterior design of the i7, but this car has earned BMW’s “most powerful EV” title with a 0-100 km/h sprint time of 3.7 seconds for the M70 variant.

In the xDrive60 M Sport guise, this electric limousine has 544 PS and 745 Nm, enabling acceleration from 0-100 km/h in 4.7 seconds before reaching a maximum speed of 240 km/h. Its range is equally impressive at 625 km.

If performance is not your priority, the i7 still offers a high level of comfort and luxury that can be expected from the 7 Series. There’s plenty of new tech and gadgets inside, including a 31.3-inch drop-dpwn screen for the rear passangers.

Hyundai Ioniq 6

Following the encouraging response received for the Ioniq 5, Hyundai has decided to introduce another EV model to the local market, namely the Ioniq 6.

This streamliner-shaped sedan is available in Max RWD and Max AWD variants, offering ranges of up to 614 km and 519 km, with prices ranging from RM289,888 to RM319,888.

If that seems expensive, Hyundai also offers Lite and Plus variants priced from RM219,888. Most of the standard features are retained, but both variants have a lower power output, and the range is shorter at 429 km.

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Yamaha establishes Enyring for e-bike battery swap in Europe, beginning 1H 2025

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YAMAHA has announced the establishment of a new company called Enyring, which will offer battery exchange services based on subscription in Europe.

According to the official images provided, this Yamaha battery exchange service is seen to use smaller-sized battery units compared to Honda’s Mobile Power Pack e units.

In addition to offering electric scooter battery exchange subscription plans to users, Enyring will also collaborate with leaders in Europe to recycle used batteries.

In doing so, Yamaha will create a closed-loop system that relies entirely on recycling materials to produce the latest products.

Enyring will be based in Berlin, Germany, with operations set to commence in the first half of 2025. To start, Enyring will establish battery exchange infrastructure in two major cities, Berlin and Amsterdam.

The selection of these two locations is considered highly suitable as the use of bicycles and electric scooters has already become popular among the local population.

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10 best EVs launched in Malaysia in 2023 – Part 1

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THE curtains have closed on the year 2023, which seemed like a busy period for the Malaysian electric vehicle market, thanks to the influx of new offerings coming on to the local EV scene.

So without further ado, let’s revisit the 10 most exciting EVs launched in our market throughout last year. Note that the cars in this list is not sorted in order.

Lotus Eletre

There are many reasons to like the Eletre, whether or not you are a fan of Lotus. Firstly, it is the first production SUV for the brand known for its small and lightweight sports cars.

It may be an electric SUV, but the Eletre has what it takes to blow the existing ICE Lotus vehicles out of the water with a total system output of 905 hp and 985 Nm in its most powerful version, the R.

Its rather aggressive exterior design may not be everyone’s cup of tea, but the Eletre’s space-age cabin should leave youe in awe.

Smart #1

After months of teasers, the smart #1 was finally launched last November, offering three variants with selling prices ranging from RM189,000 to RM249,000.

The prices may seem a tad steep but with the #1, you truly get what you pay for. In other words, the #1 is a premium EV with a wide variety of features.

The Pro and Premium variants are equally impressive, with acceleration performance of 0-100 km/h in 4.4 seconds and a range of 440 km. If that’s not enough, the Brabus variant offers a sportier look with red trims and two electric motors.

BYD Dolphin

The BYD Dolphin is the Chinese EV manufacturer’s second model to arrive in Malaysia, following the Atto 3. With a starting price below of RM100,000, it is also one of the most affordable EVs in the market.

True to its name, the Dolphin’s exterior design is rather adorable, enhanced by attractive LED signature lights at the front and rear. Its interior space looks unique with a funky dashboard design and vibrant color theme.

In addition to the impressive driving range (410 km to 490 km, NEDC), what’s appealing about the Dolphin is the amount of standard equipment buyers get, which include wireless Apple CarPlay, a 12.8-inch rotating touchscreen, and ADAS, to name a few.

Rolls-Royce Spectre

This ultra-luxurious electric coupe arrived in Malaysia last September as the most expensive EV in the country,  with a price starting from RM2 million excluding options.

If V12-powered cars like the Ghost and Dawn are sometimes described as “eerily silent”, imagine a Rolls-Royce without an internal combustion engine.

With a 102-kWh battery, the Spectre can drive up to 520 km on a full charge. Charging from 10% to 80% can be achieved in just 34 minutes via a 195 kW DC charger. Interestingly, the Spectre is the first two-door coupe Rolls-Royce to come with 23-inch wheels in almost 100 years.

BMW iX M60

The first electric SAV model in the BMW M portfolio is powered by two electric motors producing a total power of 619 PS and 1,015 Nm.

If that torque figure isn’t high enough, the Launch Control function will boost it to 1,100 Nm to enable the vehicle to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.8 seconds. The maximum speed is capped at 250 km/h.

A 105.2 kWh lithium-ion battery pack provides a driving range of up to 561 km, but with the bonkers ouput, it seems that not many drivers will be able to reach 500 km on a single charge.

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Gachaco opens public battery sharing service for EV scooters in Japan

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JAPAN’S Big Four Companies (Kawasaki, Suzuki, Yamaha, and Honda) and the energy company Eneos have formed Gachaco, a electric scooter battery swapping service in the Japanese market.

Initially, Gachaco was targeted for business and delivery use only and could only be used for certain models of Honda electric scooters, such as Benly e:, Gyro e:, Gyro Canopy e:, and EM1 e:.

Only the EM1 e: model is available for public purchase, where interested individuals can subscribe to Gachaco’s battery swapping service.

By reclassifying the battery as a service and excluding it from the selling price, Honda customers can obtain the EM1 e: scooter at a lower cost, approximately 97,200 yen (RM3,167).

What they need to do is subscribe to Gachaco’s battery swapping service based on their current usage. For example, the basic plan starts at about 1,078 yen per month (RM35 per month), while the standard plan costs 2,805 yen per month (RM91.39 per month).

Gachaco also offers a pay-per-use option for each usage, priced at 180 yen per kWh (RM5.86 per kWh).

At present, the Gachaco battery swapping service, which utilizes the Honda Mobile Power Pack e: unit, is only available in Japan.

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Jiyue 07 is an EV sedan from Geely and Baidu, potential Tesla Model 3 rival?

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Geely seems very serious about competing with Tesla in the Chinese market. Following the introduction of the Jiyue 01 model as a direct competitor to the Tesla Model Y, the Chinese market is now seeing the arrival of the new Jiyue 07 model, a powerful electric fastback sedan that will challenge the Tesla Model 3.

The Jiyue 07 shares the same Sustainable Experience Architecture (SEA) platform used in the Volvo EX90, EX30, Polestar 4, and most Zeekr models.

The base 07 variant comes equipped with a 268 hp electric motor and a 71.4 kWh battery pack, while the all-wheel-drive version comes with twin electric motors producing 536 hp and a 100 kWh battery pack.

The exterior design of the 07 shares many similarities with the previously showcased SUV 01, featuring aggressive main headlights, curved LED bar, and similar rear light units.

Based on the teaser images provided earlier, the interior of the 07 features a minimalist layout, starting with a single elongated screen, followed by a yoke-style steering wheel design.

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Huawei-Seres joint-venture to build Aito M9 with BMW X7 size and 630km range

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Due to the relatively large size of the Chinese market, it is not surprising to see various cooperative efforts between major names such as Geely-Baidu, as well as several leading smart device manufacturers like Huawei.

The new Huawei-Seres cooperative company has recently launched the Aito M9 flagship six-seater SUV, featuring the latest Huawei technology.

It boasts dimensions larger than the BMW X7, with a length of 5,230 mm, width of 1,999 mm, height of 1,800 mm, wheelbase of 3,110 mm, and a drag coefficient as low as 0.264 Cd!

The M9 offers two powertrain options. The full electric version features two powerful electric motors delivering 523 hp, and a CATL 97.7 kWh battery pack providing a range of 630 km on a single full charge.

Meanwhile, the range extender version includes a 1.5-liter turbo engine acting as a power generator for two 490 hp electric motors and a CATL battery pack with a choice of 42 or 52 kWh capacity.

The range extender setup allows the M9 to travel between 1,362 and 1,402 km with a full battery charge and fuel tank.

An unique feature of the M9 model is the front-mounted projector, capable of transforming any flat surface into a 100-inch display, along with a cabin-mounted laser projector with a 32-inch panel.

The M9’s dashboard hosts three screens: a 12.3-inch digital cluster, a 15.6-inch center screen, and a 16-inch front passenger display, as well as a 75-inch head-up display and a 2,080-watt audio system with 25 speakers and active noise reduction technology.

Additionally, there are four additional display tablets for rear passengers, all operated on the HarmonyOS 4 Huawei operating system.

All six seats in the M9 cabin have electronically adjustable lumbar support, heating and ventilation functions, and can be configured as needed. In terms of safety, the Aito M9 is equipped with the Huawei ADS 2.0 system and 27 sensors.

In the Chinese market, the Aito M9 is available for order at prices ranging from 469,800 yuan to 569,800 yuan (RM304,481-RM369,292).

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This Decathlon e-bike has an aluminum frame and will offer 160km range

I’m sure we are all familiar with Decathlon brand. A variety of sports goods and recreational activities can be found at the store, with affordable prices.

Don’t be unaware, Decathlon is now also starting to offer electric bicycle products under the brand Van Rysel. The bicycle, called the Van Rysel E-EDR AF Apex, is Decathlon’s first attempt in the ultra-light electric road bike segment using an aluminum frame weighing only about 14 kg.

Not only that, in addition to aluminum, this bicycle uses a front fork component made of carbon for a more agile handling.

It uses a 250W (0.34 hp) Mahle X35 electric motor with 250 Nm torque and three assistance levels, coupled with a Sram APEX 12-speed gearing system, assisted by the Sram APEX hydraulic brake system.

The 250Wh 36-volt battery pack allows for a range of up to 160 km on a full charge. According to Decathlon, this new e-bike has undergone thorough real-world testing for six months.

Decathlon has priced the Van Rysel E-EDR AF Apex starting from 2,800 euros (RM14,318).

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Pre-production of the Volvo ES90 electric sedan begins, to launch in May 2024?

The Swedish publication, Teknikens Värld, reports that Volvo has now commenced the pre-production of their first electric sedan.

This is based on secret images successfully obtained from the Cixi factory, Zhejiang Province, along with internal memos detailing the initial specifications of the electric sedan.

The EV with the internal codename V551 will be officially named the ES90 and shares the same SPA2 platform as the EX90 SUV model.

The Volvo ES90 measures 4,990 mm in length, 1,945 mm in width, 1,547 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 3,102 mm.

This positions the Volvo ES90 in direct competition with electric sedans in its segment such as the BMW i5, Mercedes-Benz EQE, and Audi A6 e-tron.

Furthermore, the electric sedan weighs approximately 2,600 kg for the dual-motor AWD version and 2,500 kg for the single-motor rear-wheel drive (RWD) version. The large 111 kWh battery pack offers a range of up to 600 km for the single-motor electric version.

According to the report, the serial production of the electric sedan is slated to commence in May 2024.