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TEST DRIVE

The Mazda CX-30 2.0G High+ is not for everyone – Test drive

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AS the Mazda CX-30 began making its way into the Malaysian market towards the end of 2019, the majority of us in the media deeply admired it. Not only does it look beautiful and sleek with curves and lines reminiscent of Italian SUVs, the CX-30 is also a joy to drive.

If you’re a driving enthusiast, the CX-30 will quickly win you over. However, the pricing of the CX-30 at that time was quite steep, causing concern for many potential buyers. This resulted in somewhat lackluster sales.

However, last year, Mazda Malaysia introduced a locally assembled CKD (completely knocked down) variant for this compact B-segment SUV, making its pricing more appealing. The CX-30 2.0G starts at RM131,000 and goes up to the 2.0G High+ Premium at RM159,000. This represents a discount of approximately RM13,000 compared to the 2019 2.0G model.

However, for this CKD version, all four variants now use only a 2.0-liter petrol engine, with no more option for the 1.8-liter diesel SkyActive-D as before, which used to cost over RM170,000.

Recently, we test drove the high-end mid-range variant, the CX-30 2.0G High+, priced at RM149,000. Is it worth it compared to models like the Honda HR-V and Toyota Corolla Cross? And who is the CX-30 for?

One class higher

Upon closer inspection, the Mazda CX-30 seems to occupy a class above other models in its segment. For example, the chrome strip under the front grille that extends to the left and right front lights is actually expensive to manufacture because it’s a large piece of thin chrome.

Then, the body panels from the fender, doors, to the rear of the car lack clear lines; instead, they curve and play with light in a captivating manner. It’s contoured and gives the CX-30 the image of a creature, not just a machine or object.

Such organic surfaces require a higher level of quality care and attention compared to conventional lines. The rear design is also quite elegant and sporty, resembling the more expensive Italian SUVs, like the Alfa Romeo Stelvio.

Inside, you’ll notice that the gas pedal in the CX-30 is an organ type, i.e., a hinged type on the floor. This automatically makes this SUV feel more expensive compared to models that use hanging pedals.

The same goes for the rpm and speedometer display. Only the rpm display is physical, while the speedometer is actually digital. However, Mazda has successfully made both of these look very similar. When you turn off the engine, you realize that the speedometer is a screen.

These are things we can’t see in brochures or specifications. So, it’s normal for us to have difficulty justifying the higher price of the Mazda CX-30. But after a test drive or spending a few days with it, then we can understand.

Sports car ‘compromises’

Beneath the front hood of the Mazda CX-30 lies a 2.0-liter SkyActiv-G naturally-aspirated petrol engine, capable of generating 162hp and 213Nm of torque. Although these figures may seem ordinary and not overly impressive, Mazda teaches us that sporty doesn’t solely mean high power output. Yes, the Mazda CX-30 is among the most sporty SUVs in its class, if not the sportiest.

Numbers aren’t everything when it comes to being sporty; it’s the way this SkyActiv engine revs up, responds, and sounds that gives you the feeling of being closely connected to the car.

From the ultra-fast response when you touch the gas pedal, to the smooth rise of the rpm needle to the 6,800rpm redline in manual mode, the sporty nature of the Mazda CX-30 shines through. The 6-speed SkyActiv-Drive gearbox used is a real 6-speed, not a virtual speed from a CVT like most of its competitors (except for the X50, which uses dual-clutch).

This means that the sensation of gear shifting is ‘real’ and genuine, not simulated. Shifting doesn’t need to be overly quick; what’s important is the adequate response, making you feel closely connected and familiar with this CX-30 powertrain.

As the revs approach the redline, your heartbeat quickens, accompanied by a pleasant sound at high revs, and when upshifting, your heartbeat subsides slightly, only to rise again when accelerating in the next gear.

The downshift also feels like a true sports car. Whether in automatic or manual mode, you can feel the clutch disengaging, the engine blipping for rev matching, and the clutch reengaging smoothly, yet sportily.

Don’t believe that output isn’t the determinant of a sporty feel? Well, consider the Lotus Elise with 217hp from a supercharged 1.8-liter engine, compared to the 255hp in the Mercedes C300 with a 2.0-liter turbo engine. Which one is more sporty?

So, this underscores the point that the ‘way’ an engine delivers its power or its character is more important than the numbers that we can just Google.

However, when driving a sporty vehicle, you might make some sacrifices in terms of space and practicality. In the case of the Mazda CX-30, I have to be honest and say that it’s not the most spacious in its segment. Adding to the issue is the black-brown color scheme in the cabin, which doesn’t help in this regard.

The seating is indeed comfortable and supportive, but when I had a stout passenger seated next to me and a rather tall one at the back, the cabin felt a bit tight. And if you sit in a low driving position, it’s somewhat difficult to see the left side and the rear corner of the car.

The dashboard panel and all switches and buttons are easily accessible, which is great as it gives us a sense of confidence and the feeling that the car is focused on the driver.

Not for everyone

Simply put, the Mazda CX-30 is not for everyone. It offers a delightful driving experience, suits dedicated and sporty drivers, but it may not be the best fit for most people.

If you’ve previously driven the Mazda MX-5 when you were single, the CX-30 is highly suitable for building a small family before transitioning to a larger vehicle when you have more than three children.

For the writer, I truly enjoy driving the Mazda CX-30 because its size is ideal for daily use, in addition to its responsive aspect and the precise driving feel offered by the Jinba Ittai concept. The CX-30’s design remains elegant and evergreen even as it approaches four years old, and Mazda has yet to provide any visual updates, which isn’t really necessary.

The CX-30 still looks fresh and new in the market. To answer the earlier question, the Mazda CX-30 may not appear worthwhile when compared to regular cars in its segment, but you will see better value when compared to models such as the MINI Countryman, Lexus UX, or Mercedes A-Class hatchback.

Specification of Mazda CX-30 2.0L High+

Price: RM149,000
Engine: 2.0-litre SkyActiv-G 4-cylinder, naturally-aspirated
Gearbox: 6-speed automatic SkyActiv-Drive
Power: 162hp @ 6,000rpm
Torque: 213Nm @ 4,000rpm

TEST DRIVE

iX3 is a ‘traditional’ BMW EV being RWD – Test drive

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BMW is one of the manufacturers in Malaysia that offers a wide range of electric vehicle (EV) models, including the i4, i7, iX1, iX3, and iX. This time, Engear was given the opportunity by BMW Malaysia to spend the weekend with the iX3.

There is a secret, although the iX3 is a relatively new, futuristic, and state-of-the-art EV model, it possesses the characteristics of a traditional BMW. Why? Because it is a true rear-wheel-drive vehicle.

Yes, the BMW M3 now has all-wheel drive with the xDrive system, but the iX3, an EV SUV, is rear-wheel drive. Truly, it’s a strange world we live in now.

RWD Configuration

The BMW iX3 has a rear-wheel-drive configuration because it is powered by a single electric motor installed on the rear axle, with an output of 282hp and 400Nm of torque. This motor draws power from a 73.8kWh battery that gives the iX3 a driving range of up to 453km.

We insist on talking about RWD; why is it so important? Perhaps most drivers don’t care. It’s an interesting fact because when the front tires don’t need to deliver power and only bear the responsibility of steering, it results in a very precise and direct steering feel.

So, does this mean the car is fast? Not necessarily. It just means that the iX3 has the “feel” or sensation of a true sports car; 100% power at the rear tires, 100% steering by the front tires. When was the last time you drove a car like this?

But to say this BMW iX3 is slow, not quite. The performance is still solid. Despite weighing 2,200kg, it’s still capable of accelerating to 100km/h in 6.8 seconds, faster than most cars. The maximum speed is capped at “only” 180km/h, as is common with EVs.

However, it’s true that throughout the writer’s experience driving the BMW iX3, handling in corners was quite balanced and satisfying. Its weight is centered, the steering provides plenty of feedback, and the 400Nm of torque is accessible most of the time.

Driving at night is accompanied by BMW Laser Light, which not only looks sophisticated but also provides strong visibility for the driver. Indirectly, this also adds to the safety aspect.

Luxurious and practical for everyday use

The BMW iX3 we drove is an M Sport Impressive variant, so it gets a sporty body kit despite the presence of blue EV elements.

The blue elements can be seen on the closed grille, air intakes on the front bumper, and rear diffuser. However, the sporty elements dominate the exterior design of this iX3 M Sport, such as the 20-inch rims, aggressive side bumpers, and prominent rear diffuser design, in addition to the roof spoiler.

The side profile of the BMW iX3 is still classic SUV, and resembles the X3, signaling its familial aspect with other models. It should also be noted that the lower floor of this iX3 is nearly flat like a sports car, and it works in conjunction with the rear diffuser.

Only the overall cabin area feels ordinary and not too special. Its dashboard displays a design that we are already familiar with, not bad, just perhaps a bit dated.

However, if you diligently delve into its central screen, there is a lot of exclusive content for the electric model. This includes power distribution menus, regenerative mode, and charging planning.

The writer quite likes the 464-watt Harman Kardon audio system in this iX3, which can make you enjoy driving this car because it can play your favorite songs with a very pleasant sound. Even if your spouse asks you to buy a packet of sugar, you will be eager to drive the BMW iX3 even for short distances.

Space is not an issue for the iX3, it is quite spacious with sufficient leg and headroom for five adults.

Travel data

Well, now we shouldn’t forget the fact that the BMW iX3 is an EV, so how about its performance and daily practicality? Is 453km sufficient? In all honesty, when we got the car, its battery was at 95 percent with only 313km of driving range. Oh dear! How did that happen?

It should be noted that the EV car’s range reading is calculated based on the previous driving behavior. Perhaps the previous driver of the iX3 didn’t hold back, enjoying the 400Nm torque it offers.

From the writer’s experience, despite the displayed range being 313km, the writer managed to drive over 350km with 25km of range left when returning the iX3. How so? The writer did a lot of city driving at speeds below 120km/h, with frequent stop-and-go situations.

So, the car’s 2.2-ton weight gave momentum for the regenerative system to replenish energy back into the battery every time the writer slowed down. It can be said that in 90 percent of the writer’s driving situations, the brake pedal wasn’t pressed; simply lifting the foot off the accelerator pedal, and the iX3 used regen to stop, rather than the disc brakes.

Its regen system can also be adjusted at various levels, depending on the conditions and suitability. From the writer’s experience, you can use maximum regen in the city and for slow driving, while minimum regen for faster highway driving.

So, the writer didn’t run out of battery over several days of driving the iX3 around Kuala Lumpur, which is a good thing, isn’t it? But for your information, the iX3 will take seven and a half hours for a full charge if using AC. If using fast DC charging, it supports up to 150kW, meaning 80 percent of the battery can be reached in just 32 minutes.

Should I buy it?

The EV market in Malaysia has indeed been disrupted by the presence of Tesla, offering models with a driving range of over 500km at prices below RM200,000.

So, how about the BMW iX3? The M Sport Inspiring variant starts at RM307,160, while the M Sport Impressive variant that we tested is priced at RM328,160.

In the writer’s opinion, true car enthusiasts don’t mind all that, especially BMW enthusiasts. The iX3 is suitable for BMW owners who want EV technology after having a 5-Series or X3 at home.

The iX3 will be a practical EV for urban use, while maintaining a sporty image and appeal to “petrolheads”. In fact, it doesn’t immediately look like an EV at first glance, if that’s what you prefer.

Specifications of BMW iX3 M Sport Impressive

Price: RM328,160
Battery: 73.8kWh
Power: 282hp
Torque: 400Nm

NEWS

Mazda3 finally gets facelift – Only 2.0-liter engine, sedan and hatchback, priced from RM156k

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FINALLY, after four years in the market, the Mazda3 has received a facelift and update. It’s not to say that it necessarily needed a facelift because the Mazda3 still looks beautiful and fresh, but it might need an update in terms of specifications and features.

The updated Mazda3 for 2023 is offered in four variants for the Malaysian market as follows:

Mazda3 2.0 High Sedan – RM156,059
Mazda3 2.0 High Plus Sedan – RM166,059
Mazda3 2.0 High Plus Liftback – RM166,059
Mazda3 2.0 Ignite Edition Liftback – RM175,059

As you can see above, all variants now come with only a 2.0-liter engine for the sedan and Liftback (hatchback), meaning the 1.5-liter engine has been dropped. The 2.0 SkyActiv-G engine is featured in all models, with an output of 162hp and 213Nm torque.

This engine is paired with a 6-speed SkyActiv-Drive gearbox with manual mode. Fuel efficiency figures are up to 6.2L/100km for the sedan model, while it is 6.3L/100km for the hatchback.

For exterior features, all variants receive LED headlights, but LED DRLs are only available for the top three variants, with the High sedan model featuring LED fog lights. Other features are similar, such as LED fog lamps, auto-folding side mirrors, auto-dimming rearview mirror, and front and rear parking sensors.

The High Sedan comes with 16-inch wheels with 205/60 tires, while the three higher variants are equipped with 18-inch wheels wrapped in 215/45 tires.

Interior features for all models include leather seats with 10-way adjustment for the driver, electronic parking brake, 7-inch instrument display, color head-up display (HUD), and dual-zone air conditioning.

The infotainment system consists of a 10.25-inch central display, Apple Carplay and Android Auto connectivity, eight speakers, and two USB Type-C ports. A reverse camera is also standard, but the top variant, Mazda3 2.0 Ignite Edition hatchback, gets an additional 360-degree camera.

For safety systems, all variants come with standard features such as ABS, EBD, Dynamic Stability Control, Emergency Stop Signal, Hill Launch Assist, and ISOFIX. However, only the top three variants are equipped with advanced assistance systems such as adaptive headlights, Blind Spot Monitoring, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Lane Departure Warning System, Lane-Keep Assist System, Driver Attention Alert, Smart Brake Support, and Mazda Radar Cruise Control.

All 2023 Mazda3 variants are fully imported, which is why their prices are higher compared to models like the Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla. What is your opinion, is it worthwhile to choose the Mazda3?

For us, this model always looks and feels more premium than its competitors, and although it looks ‘fresh’ in the market, it is indeed deserving of an update in features.

TEST DRIVE

2023 Toyota Vios 1.5 G: More modern, better to drive, best value? – Test drive

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THE segment-B sedan category is quite critical in our country as these cars are considered affordable and serve as the main vehicles for many families. Therefore, it is important for manufacturers to be sensitive to users because even a small ‘deviation’ could invite criticism. However, by adding premium or new features to this segment, manufacturers can receive high praise for several weeks after the launch news is still hot.

The 2023 Toyota Vios, launched last March, represents an entirely new generation with a completely new interior and exterior. We will discuss its performance later.

Three major issues

However, if you are looking into or researching cars in this segment, you would know that the new Toyota Vios has two major issues – the rear seats cannot be folded, and there is no spare tire.

Why? Well, regarding the non-folding rear seats, the Toyota Vios development team shared with the media that according to their market research, most users do not use this function. MOST. Are you among this group, or are you a minority who will complain? So, they did not include this function, and as a result, the car is 10kg lighter due to the absence of a folding mechanism.

For the lack of a spare tire, they stated that it is to provide more storage space. If you look under the boot floor, there is Styrofoam storage space for small items. The absence of a spare tire also further reduces the car’s weight.

Overall, this new generation Vios is about 110kg lighter than the previous model. This time, the 1.5 G variant weighs only 1,035kg.

In fact, there is a third issue, which is the lower engine power. Compared to the previous Vios, which had 105hp and 140Nm from the 1.5-liter 2NR-FE engine, the new Vios is powered by the 2NR-VE engine with an output of 104hp and 138Nm of torque.

These figures decreased by 1hp and 2Nm, but in all honesty, you won’t feel the difference. But considering the lighter weight as mentioned earlier, the new Vios actually has a better power-to-weight ratio than before.

So, overall and theoretically, the new Vios is definitely more fuel-efficient. According to Toyota, the Vios has a fuel efficiency of up to 5.2 liters per 100km or 19.2km per liter.

Regarding major issues like non-folding rear seats and the lack of a spare tire, we should look at it this way: Toyota may be in a dilemma choosing between facing criticism from many people for not having a spare tire, or a few people complaining about the non-folding rear seats. We also believe fuel efficiency is more important for cars like this. So, let’s move on to the next topic.

Becoming more upmarket

One crucial aspect for Segmen-B sedan cars is style and appearance. In this regard, the new Toyota Vios does not disappoint. Its overall look can be described as more ‘upmarket.’ The front end now resembles larger Toyota sedans (such as the Toyota Corolla), featuring larger 17-inch rims (in the G variant) and a rear roof design akin to a fastback, which is currently on-trend.

The front appearance with its slanted LED headlights is still challenging for the writer to grasp, but, importantly, it gives a fresh image, markedly different from before. The larger rims not only complement the overall shape but also have a positive impact on handling.

This upmarket feel extends to the interior, where the Vios dashboard now looks modern and not cheap. If it used to be filled with hard gray plastic, the 2023 Vios now boasts softer touches, different color tones, and textures.

Simultaneously, the button and switch layout is still neat, easily accessible, and more pleasant to the touch. Additionally, the instrument display is now fully digital, with electronic parking brakes coming standard.

An interesting touch for the writer is the positioning of the window switch surfaces on the left and right door panels. They are glossy black, like most cars, but instead of being plain, they feature a diamond texture and a slightly recessed surface.

This is an easy and cost-effective solution, yet effective in adding a sense of premium and sophistication to the Vios. This is important because many buyers of cars in this category are upgrading from budget cars.

Have you been driving the Myvi since you started working, and now with a family and a promotion, you’re upgrading to the Vios? A common scenario, isn’t it?

Oh, we know that because the Vios is built on the DNGA platform (Daihatsu New Global Architecture), it shares the dashboard with models like the Axia and Alza. So, one way to position the Vios in a higher tier is the inclusion of wireless Android Auto and Apple Carplay integration.

Solid look, solid driving?

For driving dynamics, perhaps not many Vios buyers emphasize this aspect, even though UMW Toyota has used this car for the Vios Challenge event for several years.

Nonetheless, the fact is that this all-new Toyota Vios has seen an improvement in terms of driving dynamics, whether you need it or not. The first thing the writer noticed is the more precise and responsive steering with increased feedback.

It doesn’t feel unnecessarily heavy, but just enough for a natural feel. This makes the new Vios more enjoyable to drive, whether cruising slowly in the city or taking corners at triple-digit speeds.

The 205/50 tire profile and 17-inch rims also contribute to a better steering feel; it’s not just for looks. However, it’s worth noting that the cost of replacing tires will increase, so this is something to keep in mind. Approximately RM380 to RM400 for one tire of this size.

For a delightful driving experience, some investment is necessary, right? Most importantly, this ‘delightfulness’ comes from the factory’s R&D, not just a gimmick by the car enthusiasts.

The chassis is now more robust and stable, thanks to the use of DNGA. When taking S corners while descending from Genting Highlands, the suspension and tires work more consistently and clearly, a result of the sturdy chassis.

The writer honestly no longer enjoys ‘testing’ cars in Genting because there are too many wannabe ‘racers’ there now, but happened to have work there, so took the opportunity to drive the Vios.

Sufficient power? 104hp and 138Nm of torque is more than enough even when driving up to the peak of Genting Highlands. The new D-CVT gearbox with a combination of physical gears and a belt assists in efficiently transmitting the overall power to the front wheels. You feel the full force of the 104hp without any power wastage.

The engine noise will enter the cabin when revved beyond 4,000rpm, which is normal. But when the rpm stabilizes and you’re cruising at a constant speed, the Vios is fairly quiet and comfortable to drive for long distances.

Even when pushed, we will begin to reach the limits of the engine, tires, and gearbox. The tires supplied are Continental PremiumContact 7, not performance tires, so they start to struggle when you’re not smooth enough with steering inputs. This doesn’t mean the tires are not good; they are perfect for daily use in the Vios.

The engine and gearbox also work hard to keep up with the writer’s accelerations and climbs, then brake into corners, then accelerate again. The TCU (Transmission Control Unit) tries to provide the best gear ratios according to speed, rpm, and right foot input. But there are no issues with the chassis.

Additional information: Toyota already has a unit for the use of the Vios Challenge based on this new platform. Surely, it uses semi-slick tires and a manual transmission, so maybe next season we will be able to see how the performance of this new generation Vios holds up in actual races.

Not races at the Genting International Circuit, of course. Always drive carefully on public roads!

Safety features are not forgotten; the Vios now comes standard with Toyota Safety Sense (TSS), which includes systems like Pre-Collision System, Lane Departure Warning, and Front Departure Alert. The G variant also includes Lane Keeping Control, Auto High Beam, and Adaptive Cruise Control. For the writer, the G variant is the way to go as these three features are highly useful for everyday driving. Additionally, the price difference in monthly installments isn’t significant.

In conclusion, the 2023 Toyota Vios is indeed a significant shift in all aspects compared to the car it replaces. It is now more modern and dynamic to drive, and most importantly, it makes you feel it offers better value for money.

Specification of Toyota Vios 1.5 G

Price: RM95,500
Engine: 1.5-litre 4-cylinder 2NR-VE
Gearbox: D-CVT with 7-virtual speeds
Power: 104hp @ 6,000rpm
Torque: 138Nm @ 4,200rpm

NEWS

Malaysia Hobby Expo to return on Dec 2-3, more than 50 activities and 250 exhibitors

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THE Malaysia Hobby Expo 2023 returns for its fifth edition, after a hiatus since 2019 due to the pandemic. Following its annual occurrence from 2016 to 2019, it now “resurges” to engage and bring together hobby enthusiasts and practitioners in Malaysia.

The event this year will take place on December 2nd and 3rd, promising more than 50 hobby activities and 250 exhibitors, including radio-controlled cars (RC), vintage collections, extreme sports, pets, books and magazines, as well as arts and crafts.

Muhammed Fidzri Syafeeq, the founder of Malaysia Hobby Expo, stated that the existence of this expo is inspired by international events from Japan, Beijing, Shizouka, and Moscow.

“This year’s target is 25,000 people per day, an additional 35 percent from the 2019 target,” he said.

The event is organized by Specta Group Venture with MAEPS Serdang as the official venue and Shopee as the main sponsor. Every hobby will be gathered in several designated zones such as Hobby Bazaar, Hobby Group, Vintage Bazaar, extreme sports zones, pet zones, and outdoor zones.

For those interested in attending, tickets are RM20 for adults and RM5 for children for both days. Each ticket purchase also qualifies you to participate in a lucky draw.

The lucky draw prizes include a modified Perodua Myvi, two Yamaha LC V8 units, a 55-inch TV, Sony PS5, and 10 units of G-Shock watches. All prizes are reportedly valued at RM50,000.

The Malaysia Hobby Expo 2023 will also feature the “Passion of Sound” concert on the first day, December 2nd, 2023, which will showcase singers such as Ruffedge, Gerhana Ska Cinta, Insomniacks, Saixe, and Hujan.

This year’s event is also special with the organization of the Tamiya Mini 4WD MHXCUP2023, which is expected to be the largest race for 1:32 scale battery-powered cars.

The race offers prizes worth over RM30,000 with 300 participants from Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, Indonesia, and Brunei. For ticket purchases and further information, visit https://myhobbyexpo.com or their Facebook page.

NEWS

Hyundai Ioniq 5 convoy embarks on ASEAN tour journey

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THE Hyundai Ioniq 5 convoy has commenced their ASEAN journey, making a stop at Hyundai Ara Damansara today before continuing their travels.

The journey commenced on November 20, 2023 from the Hyundai Motor Group Innovation Centre Singapore (HMGICS) before arriving in Malaysia.

Following a flag-off session this morning, the convoy will proceed on a three-day journey through Kuala Lumpur, Ipoh, and Batu Ferringhi.

After Malaysia, they will enter Thailand for a four-day stretch, with stops in Hat Yai, Chumphon, Wat Phra Boromthat, Klai Kangwon Palace, and Bangkok.

From there, they will travel to Cambodia for three days, passing through Angkor Wat, Bayon Temple, and Banteay Srei, before journeying to Vietnam and concluding in Ho Chi Minh City on November 30.

The three-car convoy from HMGICS is also accompanied by two units from Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Indonesia (HMMI).

These cars are driven by 24 participants representing Hyundai, club members, local influencers from ASEAN, and Key Opinion Leaders (KOL) from Indonesia and Thailand.

This 2,751km journey is an initiative of “Go Far with Zero Worries,” showcasing the long-distance capabilities of the Ioniq 5 in addition to its eco-friendly nature.

“Our aspiration for this expedition is to demonstrate the capabilities of the Ioniq 5, in efforts to alleviate user skepticism and concerns about EVs, especially in this region,” said Youngtack Lee, President of Hyundai Motor ASEAN.

“This journey not only makes history among many stakeholders but also demonstrates smooth cross-border relations and cooperation. The expedition serves as a catalyst for positive change and technological innovation,” Hyundai stated in a press release.