Tag Archives: EV

NEWS

Volvo XC40, C40 Recharge renamed to EX40, EC40

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VOLVO is standardising the names for two of its fully electric models, the XC40 Recharge and C40 Recharge, in line with its transformation towards becoming a fully electric car manufacturer by 2030.

Effective immediately, said models are renamed to EX40 and EC40 respectively, following in the footsteps of other Volvo fully electric models, which are the EX30, EX90 and EM90. The XC40 name remains for internal combustion-powered variants of the model.

The update also includes the removal of Recharge badging from Volvo’s plug-in hybrid models, which are now denoted simply by the T6 or T8 suffix indicating different levels of power output.

The new and streamlined model name standard makes it even easier for existing and new customers to understand which of the Volvo models are fully electric and which are hybrids.

The Swedish automaker is also introducing a new Performance software pack for the EX40 and EC40 Twin Motor variants, and as an upgrade for the previous model year in selected markets.

The Performance software pack, which increases power output by 25 kW (34 hp) for faster acceleration, also includes unique pedal mapping for quicker accelerator response and a ‘Performance’ drive mode to unlock the full 325 kW (436 hp).

In available markets, the Performance software will be offered as an optional upgrade pack via the Volvo Cars app when ordering a new car, while drivers of previous model year 2024 C40 and fully electric XC40 Recharge can purchase and download the software from the comfort of their sofa.

Additionally, B5 mild hybrid petrol variants of XC60 and XC90 now employ a more efficient engine combustion cycle, expected to result in CO2 emission reductions and fuel economy improvements of up to around 4% for the XC60 and around 2% for the XC90 based on the WLTP cycle.

There are also a special Black Edition of the EX40, EC40 and the XC40. The Black Edition models come with Onyx Black paint, high gloss black badging, 20-inch five-spoke alloys in high gloss black and the choice between microtech or textile charcoal interiors.

NEWS

Chery Omoda E5 officially launch, RM147k, early birds get free Wallbox Charger installation

CHERY Omoda E5 has finally been officially launched today, becoming the newest contender in the fully electric SUV B-segment. It is offered with the following price and package:

  • RM146,800
  • 7-year warranty
  • 8-year battery warranty
  • Free battery replacement when Battery Health decreases to 70 percent In addition, the first 2,000 customers will also receive free installation of the V2L Charger Wallbox, and a RM1,000 charging credit.

The Omoda E5 comes with a 61kWh battery that provides a driving range of up to 430km. The output for the electric motor is 201hp and 340Nm torque. With fast DC charging, it can be charged from 30 to 80 percent in just 28 minutes.

In terms of appearance, the Omoda 5 EV does not have a grille like the petrol version; instead, its front space is enclosed. It also comes with aero rims for improved aerodynamic efficiency.

Furthermore, it features a curved 24.6-inch 2K high-definition screen powered by a Qualcomm chip. It also includes the Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) function.

The driving features of the Omoda E5 include Easy Start-Up, Creep, Pocket Brake, One Pedal Driving, and AGS Active Air Intake System.

Chery Omoda E5 also supports V2L functions, allowing external device charging such as ovens, grills, rice cookers, and even electric scooters.

Four colors are offered for the Omoda E5: Aqua Green, Khaki White, Phantom Grey, and Dark Black. There are also two cabin color options – Blue & Beige, or Black.

This EV SUV can now be pre-ordered at any of the 40 Chery sales representatives nationwide. What are your thoughts on the Chery Omoda E5 with the offered package?

EV, NEWS

BYD YangWang U9 electric supercar launched in China

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THE competition in the electric supercar segment is about to heat up with the arrival of a new competitor from BYD’s luxury arm YangWang.

Simply called U9, the electric supercar is priced 1.68 million RMB (RM1.12 million) in its home market, with delivery set to commence this summer. The U9 made its first appearance in January last year, alongside the U8 SUV.

Like the SUV, the U9 is built on the e4 Platform featuring four electric motors, one powering each wheel. The setup gives the U9 a mind-boggling total output of 1,300 hp and 1,680 Nm.

It goes without saying that this is the fastest car ever produced by BYD so far. 0-100 km/h accelaration takes just 2.36 seconds, while the maximum speed is rated at 309.19 km/h.

Crazy numbers but the drawback is that driving range but the performance means some range has to be sacrificed. BYD claims a range of just 450 km based on the lenient CLTC cycle.

The U9’s 80 kWh LFP battery supports dual-plug charging at capacities of up to 500 kW, which takes 10 minutes to refill the battery from 10% to 80%. It can also be charged via a 7 kW AC charger, which takes about seven hours to complete a 10-80% charge.

The U9 has 12 sets of active and passive aerodynamic packages to reduce drag coefficient and enhance heat dissipation efficiency. It is also equipped with the iSus-X Intelligent body control system, which can raise the suspension by up to 75 mm at a speed of 500 mm per second.

Needless to say, the unique suspension system makes the U9 more agile in corners, but as you may have seen before, it also allows the supercar to “dance” and “jump”. Not only that, with one motor on each wheel, this car can also perform a tank turn.

Inside, the U9 uses the DiLink150 platform powered by a 5G chip. Specifically designed for track driving, it boasts an intelligent racing assistantance, providing extensive track driving services with detailed information on nearly 30 racetracks across China.

Other creature comforts include a 14-way adjustment for the driver and passenger seats, Dynaudio Evidence high-end audio system, and ambient lighting system with 127 colour options, to name a few.

NEWS

Volvo C40 Recharge updated for 2024 – Higher driving range at 550km, matrix LED, price unchanged

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VOLVO Car Malaysia (VCM) today announced that the electric SUV (EV) C40 has received enhancements for the year 2024. It is now offered with an extended driving range of up to 550km and pixel LED headlights.

Its battery pack has been increased from 78kWh to 82kWh, and with better cooling system, it adds 100km of driving range compared to before.

The 2024 Volvo C40’s battery now also supports DC charging of up to 200kW (compared to 150kW previously), meaning the battery level can go from 10 percent to 80 percent in just 28 minutes.

The powertrain has also been improved. Instead of having two motors with the same 150kW (204hp) power in the front and rear, the C40 now features a pair of motors with different outputs.

The front motor has an output of 117kW (159hp) while the rear has 183kW (249hp). The total power remains the same at 300kW (408hp).

As mentioned earlier, the 2024 Volvo C40 is also equipped with matrix LED lights for better illumination. Other features include 19-inch rims and the new Vapour Grey color.

With these added specifications, VCM has maintained the price of the C40 Recharge at RM288,888 on the road without insurance. This also includes a five-year unlimited mileage warranty, as well as an eight-year or 160,000km battery warranty.

There is also a five-year or 100,000km free service package and roadside assistance for the same duration.

EV, NEWS

BMW iX now available in xDrive50 Sport and M60 variants, from RM466k

BMW Malaysia has announced updates to the BMW iX range for the model year 2024.

Starting now, the fully electric SUV will be offered in only two variants, namely the xDrive50 Sport and M60. This means that the xDrive40 and xDrive40 Sport variants have been discontinued.

With this update, the iX xDrive50 Sport follows in the footstep of the M60 by gaining a 22 kW AC charging, which is capable of reducing the charging time to under 5 hours 30 minutes for a complete 0 to 100% charge.

Additionally, both variants continue to offer fast charging capabilities of up to 195 kW, allowing for 0-80% charging in just 35 minutes.

In addition to faster charging, the xDrive50 Sport variant also gets the dual-axle air suspension system that absorbs road imperfections with precision for a more refined driving experience. The BMW Iconic Sounds Electric is also included as a standard feature.

There are no changes in terms of performance and driving range. The iX xDrive50 Sport, with its 523 hp/765 Nm twin-motor setup, can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.6 seconds. The WLTP cycle-based driving range is 630 km.

Meanwhile, the iX M60 also features twin electric motors but with a significantly higher output of 619 hp/1,015 Nm (1,100 Nm with Launch Control). It takes 3.8 seconds to reach 100 km/h and can cover a distance of up to 561 km on a full charge.

The iX’s cabin now features the Live Cockpit Professional powered by BMW Operating System 8.5, a 12.3-inch instrument cluster, a 14.9-inch central screen, multifunction seats, wireless charging, and four-zone automatic air conditioning.

However, the previously available Bower & Wilkins Diamond audio system with 30 speakers, which was present in the M60, seems to have been replaced with the Harman Kardon audio system featuring 18 speakers.

Another standard feature included in this update is the Comfort Access, now featuring BMW Digital Key Plus. This digital key can be shared with up to five compatible devices allowing for convenience to the ownership experience.

For colour options, the iX is available in Alpine White, Mineral White Metallic, Black Sapphire Metallic, Sophisto Grey Metallic with Brilliant Effect, Phytonic Blue Metallic, Oxide Grey Metallic, and Blue Ridge Mountain Metallic.

For an additional RM6,200, customers can opt for the Aventurine Red Metallic and Individual Storm Bay Metallic shades.

For the interior, BMW Malaysia offers the Interior Design Atelier upholstery in Mocha or Black as standard. Two additional colours, Amido and Castanea, are available for an additional RM17,300.

The starting price is RM465,800 for the xDrive50 Sport variant and RM579,800 for the M60. A five-year extended warranty and service package are available for RM33,200.

NEWS

Chery Omoda E5 now open for booking, RM160,000 estimated price

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THE much anticipated Chery Omoda E5 is now officially open for booking ahead of its official launch scheduled in March.

Those interested can take a closer look at the pure electric crossover at Chery showrooms nationwide.

With an estimated price of RM160,000, the Omoda E5 features a single electric motor on the front axle generating 201 hp and 340 Nm of torque.

It also comes with a 61 kWh lithium iron phosphate blade battery that offers a driving range of up to 430 km according to the WLTP cycle.

For charging, the Omoda E5 supports 9.9 kW AC charging and DC charging at a capacity of up to 80 kW, the latter capable of replenishing the battery from 30% to 80% in just 30 minutes.

On the inside, it boasts a 24.6-inch curved 2K high-definition screen which utilises Qualcomm chip for seamless human-vehicle interaction. Also included is the Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) function.

Chery Malaysia claims the Omoda E5 has also excelled the Water Crossing Test and the Bottom Scraping Test, proving its capability to overcome various obstacles and ensuring a safer driving experience.

NEWS

BYD Seal arrives in Malaysia – 2 variants, from RM180k

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AT long last, the BYD Seal hasbeen officially launched in the Malaysian market. It is the third BYD electric vehicle (EV) to be introduced into the country by Sime Darby Motors, following the Atto 3 and Dolphin.

For our market, the fully electric sedan from the Ocean Series lineup is offered in two variants, namely Premium and Performance, with prices starting at RM179,800 and RM199,800 respectively.

The Premium variant comes with a single electric motor on the rear axle producing 313 PS and 360 Nm, enabling it to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.9 seconds.

Meanwhile, the Performance variant features a dual-motor configuration generating a total power of 530 PS and 670 Nm. With all-wheel drive (AWD), it only takes 3.8 seconds to accelerate from 0-100 km/h.

Additionally, the range-topping variant is equipped with Intelligent Torque Adaption Control (iTAC) and Frequency Selective Damping (FSD) shock absorbers on the front and rear.

Both variants use the same 82.56 kWh LFP Blade battery but the Premium gets a driving range of 650 km while the more powerful Performance has 580 km of range. Both figures are based on the NEDC cycle.

For charging, the Seal comes standard with a 7 kW AC charger taking 15.2 hours for a 0-100% charge. It also supports DC fast charging up to 150 kW, capable of charging from 10% to 80% in 37 minutes.

The list of features between the two variants is somewhat similar. For the exterior, standard features include LED front and rear lights, LED daytime running lights, soundproof double-glazed glass for the windshield and front doors, and 19-inch alloy rims.

Malaysian buyers will be able to choose from four exterior colours – Cosmos White, Aurora White, Atlantis Grey, and Arctic Blue. However, Arctic Blue is exclusive to the Performance variant.

Inside, you will find leather upholstery, eight-way power-adjustable and four-way lumbar support for the driver’s seat, heating and ventilation for the front seats, dual-zone air conditioning, and a PM2.5 air filtration system in both variants.

The infotainment system includes a 15.6-inch rotating touchscreen, a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, two wireless chargers, four USB ports, and a Dynaudio audio system with 12 speakers.

The driver assistance system is the same for both variants, consisting of Adaptive Cruise Control, Automatic Emergency Braking, Lane Departure Warning, Lane Departure Prevention, Emergency Lane Keeping Assist, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Blind Spot Detection, among others.

The Seal comes with a six-year/150,000 km vehicle warranty, an eight-year/160,000 km battery warranty, and an eight-year/150,000 km drive unit warranty.

To sweeten the deal, the first 800 buyers will receive a free wallbox charger and RM800 worth of Gentari/ChargEV charging credits.

NEWS

The ID.7 Tourer is VW’s first EV wagon, up to 685km range

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If you still remember 2019, Volkswagen once showcased the ID. Space Vizzion Concept, now in February 2024, they present its production version – the ID.7 Tourer.

This will mark Volkswagen’s entry into the electric wagon (EV) segment. The ID.7 Tourer joins the lineup of models such as the Golf Variant, Passat Variant, and Arteon Shooting Brake.

The VW ID.7 Tourer measures 4,961mm in length, 1,862mm in width, 1,536mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,971mm.

This EV wagon can accommodate 605 liters of cargo, which can be expanded to 1,714 liters when the rear seats are folded. VW also offers an additional roof box for those seeking more space, perhaps for long journeys or moving houses.

The exterior and interior design, as expected for Volkswagen, are distinctive. Essentially, it is an ID.7 with an elongated roof.

This Tourer version features a polymer-dispersed liquid crystal (PDLC) roof that can become transparent to allow light in, according to preference.

In terms of mechanics, the ID.7 Tourer is powered by a single electric motor at the rear, with an output of 282hp and 545Nm of torque. The Pro variant comes with a 77kWh battery pack, while the Pro S variant features an 86kWh battery.

With the larger battery, the ID.7 Tourer can travel up to 685km on a single charge. As for charging, it can achieve a range of 10% to 80% in less than 30 minutes using DC.

This EV wagon will be manufactured at the Emden factory in Germany, the same facility used for assembling the standard ID.7 and ID.4 models. The launch of this model is expected around mid-2024.

EV

Tesla opens new Supercharging station in Pavilion Bukit Jalil

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Tesla has announced the opening of their newest Supercharging station at Pavilion Bukit Jalil. Since the brand’s presence in July 2023, they have been committed to expanding the charging network for a better experience for their owners in Malaysia.

The new Supercharging station is equipped with 6 Superchargers and 2 Destination Chargers. This brings the total to 30 Superchargers and 25 Destination Chargers nationwide.

With charging speeds of up to 250kW, a Tesla Model 3 can be recharged to provide a range of 282km in just 15 minutes.

Additionally, Tesla owners can now monitor available chargers, charging status, payments, and real-time technical assistance, providing significant convenience, especially for first-time EV owners.

The Tesla Supercharging station at Pavilion Bukit Jalil is located in parking B1, Pavilion Bukit Jalil 2, Persiaran Jalil 8, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur. It is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

The charging rate is RM1.25/kWh, while the idle fee is up to RM4/minute when the station is fully utilized.

EV, NEWS

Tesla sold a total of one car in South Korea in January

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In Malaysia, Tesla is much lauded by electric vehicle (EV) users and enthusiasts alike, but in South Korea, it’s an entirely different story.

According to a report by Free Malaysia Today, the Texas-based EV manufacturer only managed to sell one car, a Model Y, in January due to concerns about safety, pricing, and charging infrastructure.

Data from the Seoul-based research firm Carisyou and the Korea Ministry of Trade indicates that this marked Tesla’s worst sales performance since July 2022, when it sold no vehicles at all.

Carisyou also reported that the number of new EV registrations in the country declined by 80% in January 2023 compared to December 2022.

It is understood that the slow reception for EVs in South Korea is due to higher interest rates and inflation, which have forced consumers to restrain their spending.

Furthermore, concerns about battery fires and a shortage of fast chargers have also contributed to the decline in EV demand there.

Lee Hang-Koo, head of the Jeonbuk Institute of Automotive Convergence Technology said most Koreans who wanted a Tesla car have already bought one.

In fact, some Koreans dislike Tesla and are concerned about the quality of production after learning that some of them are made in China.

Lee also mentioned that many people avoided buying vehicles in January because they were waiting for the government’s announcement of subsidies.

NEWS

This Honda CR-V Hydrogen could power your coffee machine

Honda has collaborated with General Motors to develop a new generation fuel cell system that will become part of the FCEV package for the CR-V.

Revealed in a new video, it shows the CR-V as the indirect successor to the discontinued Honda Clarity, which ceased production in 2021. However, Honda is making a slight difference this time as the new CR-V will combine fuel cells with a battery pack.

The promotional video showcases the benefits of dual charging, where the owner charges their coffee machine in a remote area using the car’s battery, then proceeds to a hydrogen station to refill the H2 fuel in the rear tank. In reality, this dual charging system is not new.

Many electric vehicles (EVs) offer this functionality, such as the Hyundai Ioniq 5, Kia EV6, Nissan Leaf, Ford F-150 Lightning, and Chery Omoda E5.

Additionally, adding a battery pack will certainly enhance the practicality of the Honda CR-V Hydrogen, especially considering the limited availability of hydrogen refueling stations.

Honda has not shared much further information, but it is evident that the CR-V Hydrogen will be produced at the Performance Manufacturing Centre (PMC) in Ohio. This is the same facility that once manufactured the Honda NSX hybrid.

The prototype in this video is clad in a blue wrap, clearly indicating the United States (US) version as it features side marker lights on the bumper. Compared to the standard CR-V, this model has clear taillights and a charging port on the front fender.

NEWS

‘Mr. Bean’ blamed for slow EV car sales in UK

ACTOR Mr. Bean, Rowan Atkinson, has been criticized following the sale of electric vehicles (EVs) in the United Kingdom that is reported to be sluggish or less appealing, as reported by Sky News.

Atkinson’s name was mentioned during a climate change and environment meeting at the House of Lords last week. They said that Atkinson’s comments worsened EV sales in the UK.

The comment was published in The Guardian on June 3, 2023, where Atkinson said, “electric vehicles are not as environmentally friendly as claimed.”

He also commented on the impact of EVs on the environment, their production, alternative fuel sources, car lifespan, and “our honeymoon with EVs is over.”

The following week, The Guardian published another article by Simon Evans, deputy editor of Carbon Brief, who confirmed the inaccuracies of Atkinson’s claims.

In the meeting, the Green Alliance provided its opinion on the main obstacles facing the UK government in the process of phasing out diesel and petrol cars before 2035.

They said, “One of the most damaging articles is the written comment by Rowan Atkinson in The Guardian, which has been proven wrong.”

“Unfortunately, fact-checking will not reach as widely as the initial false claims.”

Last year, the UK government announced the postponement of the ban on the sale of new petrol and diesel cars to 2035. According to them, the change is “more practical, suitable, and realistic,” alleviating the burden on workers.

EV

BMW iX now available for rental from RM550/day

SIME Darby Auto Bavaria (SDAB) has partnered with Sime Darby Rent-A-Car (SDRAC) – Hertz Malaysia to introduce electric vehicle (EV) rental services.

In conjunction with this partnership and the upcoming Chinese New Year, SDAB and SDRAC have come up with an exclusive rental offer designed to offer a distinctive driving experience with the BMW iX.

The fully electric SUV is now available with introductory rental prices starting at RM550 per day and RM5,500 per month.

Vi Thim Juan, the CEO of Auto Bavaria, stated, ““Auto Bavaria is fully committed to pioneering the utilisation of EVs in Malaysia. This time around, we are leveraging the opportunity to give Malaysians a chance to try our BMW iX for unmatched style and uniqueness that is aligned with the latest trends in EV technology.”

Harun Mohd Joned, the CEO of SDRAC, added, “Our objective is to deliver optimal mobility solutions to our business partner, SDAB, and provide Hertz Malaysia rental customers with a truly modern and luxurious electrified experience.”

Customers interested in experiencing the BMW iX can make reservations and find more details at www.simedarbycarrental.com or visit the participating Hertz Malaysia outlets in Klang Valley, Penang or Johor Bahru.

NEWS

Ferrari is spotted testing Tesla Model S in Maranello

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THE Prancing Horse brand is reported to be testing an electric-powered model near its manufacturing plant in Maranello.

Based on a video by the Varryx YouTube channel, Ferrari engineers were seen selecting a Tesla Model S Plaid equipped with high-voltage stickers and 19-inch rims.

This is part of Ferrari’s preparation to launch an electric vehicle expected to debut in 2025.

By using the Tesla Model S Plaid as the test car, Ferrari’s first electric vehicle is likely to feature two to three electric motors and power that could potentially match the Lanzador model from its competitor, Lamborghini.

For reference, the Tesla Model S Plaid is capable of producing up to 1,020 hp, while the Lamborghini Lanzador can reach up to 1 megawatt (1,341 hp).

In recent years, many parties have begun using Tesla electric cars to study the engineering behind EVs, such as Porsche, Volvo, and Ford.

This is because Tesla was among the earliest to enter the EV arena and one of the first to offer electric vehicles with a relatively long range.

Therefore, it makes sense for other manufacturers to try to learn from the strengths and weaknesses of Tesla to apply them to their own products.

EV, NEWS

Jeep Wagoneer S – brand’s first EV SUV boasts 4 screens, McIntosh sound system

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JEEP has unveiled some initial details and teaser photos of the Wagoneer S, its first global all-electric SUV, which is expected to be launched into the market in the fall of this year.

First up, the Wagoneer S is a mid-size SUV said to have a body size almost identical to the Grand Cherokee.

It is built on Stellantis’ STLA-Large platform and reportedly features a twin-motor setup that’s capable of generating 600 hp, enabling it to accelerate from 0 to 96 km/h in just 3.5 seconds.

The battery capacity is unknown at the time of writing, but there are rumors that suggest it could offer a maximum driving range of up to 800 km.

Looking at the interior photos, the Wagoneer S appears to have no less than four screens, including a digital instrument cluster, an infotainment display, a display for the front passenger, and another screen specifically for the climate control system.

Not only that, the Wagoneer S will also feature a premium MacIntosh audio system with 19 speakers, a colour-selectable ambient lighting system and a standard dual-pane panoramic sunroof.

Also visible is the EV’s centre console, which houses the Start/Stop button, a rotary gear selector, and a toggle-style switch that enables drivers to select Sand, Snow, Eco, Auto, and Sport driving modes.

NEWS

First recall campaign for Tesla Cybertruck, issue with warning lights on screen too small!

Just a few months out of the factory, the Tesla Cybertruck is now facing its first recall campaign. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), nearly 2.2 million Tesla vehicles built between 2012 and 2024 are being recalled due to issues with warning lights on the dashboard screen being too small.

“The Brake, Park, and Antilock Brake System (ABS) warning lights are displayed in a font size that is not appropriate. As a result, affected vehicles fail to meet the requirements of numbers 105 ‘Hydraulic and Electric Brake Systems’ and 135 ‘Light Vehicle Brake Systems’ as set forth in the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard regulations.”

It is understood that this recall campaign involves all 2,193,869 units of Tesla vehicles sold in the United States market.

Due to Tesla’s use of screens to replace analog gauges, owners do not need to take their vehicles to a Tesla service center; instead, they only need to await an over-the-air (OTA) update.

NEWS

EDOTCO works with ChargeSini to install more than 200 new EV chargers nationwide

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EDOTCO, the leading telecommunications infrastructure service company in Malaysia, has announced a collaboration with ChargeSini to revolutionize the electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure in the country.

This collaboration aligns with the national agenda outlined in the Low Carbon Mobility Blueprint 2021-2030, which aims to have 10,000 public EV charging stations installed nationwide by 2025.

EDOTCO and ChargeSini are expected to support this initiative by planning to install over 200 EV charging stations at indoor building locations within the next two years.

EDOTCO’s extensive experience in telecommunications infrastructure will facilitate this process by providing power supply and parking space at the selected locations.

“With over 13,000 EVs in Malaysia today, we are ready for a sudden increase to half a million EVs by 2025,” said Gayan Koralage, Malaysia Country Director at EDOTCO Group.

“Our infrastructure available at strategic locations such as shopping malls, airports, hospitals, universities, and smart street poles, seamlessly integrates with the growing EV ecosystem,” added Gayan.

Meanwhile, James Goh, CEO and founder of ChargeSini, stated, “This collaboration demonstrates the synergy between EDOTCO’s experience and ChargeSini’s approach to EV charging technology.

“Our collaboration is not only about developing EV infrastructure, it also accelerates the adoption of sustainable mobility in Malaysia,” he said.

NEWS

GAC Emkoo, Aion Y Plus set for Malaysian launch this year

IN addition to the GS3 Emzoom, WTC Automotif (WTCA) also previewed two more models that it will soon bring into the Malaysian market, namely the GAC Emkoo and GAC Aion Y Plus.

The Emkoo is a mid-size SUV that will compete with the likes of the Honda CR-V and Proton X70. No exact date has been given but it is said to enter our market later this year.

On the other hand, the GAC Aion Y Plus is a somewhat futuristic looking electric SUV marketed under GAC’s sub-brand Aion, which focuses on EVs. According to WTCA, the Aion Y Plus is expected to be launched in the first half of 2024.

As you can see, Emkoo boasts a bold and aggressive design highlighted by its V-shaped grille and ‘Eyes of Revelation’ LED headlights. Its interior underlines a digital and innovative concept with a semi-floating digital instrument cluster as the centrepiece.

In China, this model is available with a choice of 1.5-litre turbo, 2.0-litre turbo, and hybrid powertrains. It is still unknown which one we’ll get but rumours are pointing to the 1.5-litre mill, which develops 177 PS and 270 Nm, exactly the same amount of power as the GS3 Emzoom.

Aion Y Plus is built using the GAC Aion Electric Platform (AEP2.0), which the company claims costs around RM2 billion and took 30 months to develop. This platform features the longest wheelbase in its segment at 2,750 mm and a spacious full flat floor for rear passengers.

Not only that, its front seats can be reclined fully to form a 1.8 metre-wide double bed. Rear passengers can also enjoy a legroom of 1,022 mm, which is claimed to be the most spacious in the industry.

In terms of powertrain, Aion Y Plus is equipped with a 63.2 kWh Magazine battery that offers a driving range of up to 490 km (NEDC) or 430 km (WLTP) on one full charge.

EV, NEWS

GWM Ora 07 to launch in Malaysia in Q1 2024

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ON January 18, Great Wall Motor (GWM) Malaysia uploaded a teaser image of the Ora 07, indicating the imminent arrival of the model.

Now, the company has officially confirmed that the Ora 07 will be launched in Malaysia in the first quarter of this year.

Not only that, initial specifications of the fully electric fastback sedan have also been revealed. It will be offered in two configurations: a single electric motor offering a range of 640 km and a dual electric motor with a range of 550 km.

Notably, the driving range figures for both configurations mirror that of the Thai-spec Ora 07, which was launched in the country back in December.

There, the Long Range variant features a single electric motor on the front axle making 204 PS/340 Nm, allowing it to accelerate up to 170 km/h. A 83.5 kWh battery provides a range of up to 640 km.

The second variant, called Performance, is equipped with a pair of electric motors producing a total power of 408 PS/680 Nm. It has the same battery but a shorter driving range of 550 km.

Additionally, the Ora 07 for the Malaysian market will also come with an adaptive electric spoiler and a frameless door design.

EV, NEWS

Malaysia Airlines enhances top-tier passenger experience with BMW i7

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MALAYSIA Airlines, in collaboration with BMW Group Malaysia through their dealer partner, Ingress Auto Sdn. Bhd., will be introducing an exclusive private terminal transfer service for its passengers to travel in premium comfort between the Main Terminal Building and the Satellite Building of KLIA Terminal 1.

Beginning 1 February 2024, Enrich Platinum, Business Suite, and Business Class passengers flying with Malaysia Airlines will be chauffeured in style with the all-electric BMW i7.

The 24-hour service offers a sustainable and premium travel option exclusively for Malaysia Airlines’ passengers, in addition to the Premium Bus transfer currently provided by the airport operator following the temporary suspension of the aerotrain service.

During this initial phase, a fleet of BMW i7 vehicles will be deployed to serve departing passengers with the pick-up point located at Gate G1 of the Main Terminal Building. The airline will also be deploying additional units to serve arriving passengers in the near future, following the completion of the arrival lounge at the airport’s Satellite Building.

Ahmad Luqman Mohd Azmi, Chief Executive Officer of Airlines from Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG), said “With this exclusive service, we aim to enhance the travel experience for our top-tier customers, ensuring that they can enjoy premium comfort as part of their end-to-end journey with us.

“As the only carrier offering this temporary personalised service to our passengers in light of the aerotrain’s temporary suspension at KLIA Terminal 1, it underscores our dedication to elevating our standards of service to ensure a premium travel experience, while also reinforcing our commitment to embedding sustainable practices with the selection of the all-electric BMW i7 series.

We look forward to extending this service to our arriving passengers as part of our continuous efforts to ensure a fuss-free and enjoyable experience driven by our inimitable Malaysian Hospitality,” he added.