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2022 Mitsubishi Xpander facelift teaser – new LED headlamps and DRLs, Indonesia launch at GIIAS 2021

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An MPV battle royale is shaping up in Indonesia, where the 2021 Gaikindo Indonesia International Auto Show (GIIAS) will open to the press on November 11. Our neighbour is the biggest MPV market in ASEAN, and it’s typical for seven-seaters designed for our region to debut in Indonesia before heading elsewhere.

Earlier, we showed you the all-new Toyota Avanza that will be launched in Indonesia on November 10. The Avanza is of course the grand daddy and pioneer of this segment, which has since grew to include the Honda BR-V and Mitsubishi Xpander. The new second-generation BR-V was revealed in September and it will be joining the revamped Avanza/Daihatsu Xenia at GIIAS. Now, Mitsubishi has released a teaser of what looks like the Xpander facelift.

The graphic above was posted on social media with the line “Ride the Life Adventure”. It shows the silhouette of a tall car with Mitsubishi’s signature Dynamic Shield grille and some fancy LED lights, arranged in two levels. The pieces of light on the top level has some signal lamp orange, while the main beam below it is in a sideways-T shape.

Click to enlarge

The lights match what we saw in spyshots from last month, when the Xpander facelift was undergoing a commercial shoot. The current reflector LED headlamps are stacked vertically at the edge of the bumpers, while what we see here are slim, horizontal units going in deep to meet the grille. The LED DRLs appear longer too.

The spyshots also showed two-tone wheels with a blade-style pattern, which is new. At the back, there appears to be a new bumper with vertical cutouts at the sides, joined by a strip. There’s bound to be a new grille, too.

Here’s a timeline recap for the Xpander. We first saw it as the XM Concept at Indonesia’s GIIAS 2016, and the production version made its debut in the 2017 show. A very minor update involving the grille and equipment surfaced in Indonesia in early 2020.

The current Mitusbishi Xpander, Malaysia-spec

It took some time for the Xpander to reach Malaysia due to the fact that CKD local assembly had to be set up, but the updated version finally arrived in November 2020. MMM has been on a high this year, with the Xpander acting as a capable sales wingman beside the company’s main model, the Triton pick-up truck. The Xpander is currently the best-selling non-national MPV here; of the almost 13,000 bookings collected since launch, MMM has delivered 5,756 units until September 2021.

Like fellow three-row people carriers Honda BR-V, Toyota Rush and Perodua Aruz, the RM91,369 Xpander is powered by a 1.5 litre naturally-aspirated engine. The 4A91 MIVEC unit has 105 PS/141 Nm and it sends drive to the front axle via a four-speed automatic gearbox. Notable kit include bi-LED reflector headlights, 16-inch alloys, keyless entry with push start, quilted leather seats, a 9.0-inch touchscreen head unit with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto and a 360-degree camera plus dashcam.

Also check out the new Toyota Avanza and new Honda BR-V – which is more your style?

GALLERY: Mitsubishi Xpander in Malaysia

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[brandonnatali]

Hap Seng Star launches online Mercedes-Benz merchandise store – free shipping with RM300 spent

Hap Seng Star has launched a new online store in Malaysia that specialises in official Mercedes-Benz merchandise. With a vast catalogue of products on offer, there’s something for everyone, from current Mercedes-Benz owners to the brand’s fans of all ages.

The online store features an easy-to-navigate layout, with products divided into categories so you can find what you’re looking for quicker. Available items include a wide range of apparel like classic and polo T-shirts, which can be paired with various caps and watches.

There are also plenty of accessories to choose from, including keyrings, bags, luggage, cufflinks, sunglasses and pens, just to name a few. For those that have an affinity for model cars, the online store has scaled versions of classic and modern cars, along with a battery-powered ride-on AMG GT S for kids.

Direct your browser to Hap Seng Star’s online Mercedes-Benz merchandise store to find out exactly what’s available from the comfort of your home. For greater convenience, there’s an easy online payment system with direct shipping right to your door step. You’ll also enjoy free shipping for orders of at least RM300 when you use the voucher code “FREESHIPPING.”

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[brandonnatali]

Geely launches Leishen Power powertrain brand; fuel consumption from 3.6 l/100 km, e-motor up to 637 hp

Geely has officially launched Leishen Power, the automaker’s new powertrain brand that includes a new modular hybrid powertrain platform dubbed Leishen Hi-X.

The new hybrid powertrain platform is claimed to contain some of the most advanced technologies yet, including a high-thermal efficiency engine, a three-speed dedicated hybrid transmission (DHT), fuel consumption that is reduced by 40% (NEDC), and full powertrain firmware-over-the-air (FOTA) update capabilities, according to the automaker.

At the heart of the Leishen Power brand is the Hi-X platform for hybrid powertrains, which Geely claims is “the most adaptable and expandable powertrain” in the industry in terms of space (packaging), levels of electrification and power delivery. The Hi-X powertrain platform can be employed in models ranging from the A-segment to the C-segment, for hybrid, plug-in hybrid and range extender EV configurations, says Geely.

The DHE1.5 engine is a dedicated hybrid engine displacing 1.5 litres, and it will be the world’s first mass-produced supercharged, direct-injection hybrid engine, the automaker said. This will be the next-generation successor to the Geely group’s current 1.5TD powerplant.

In addition to supercharging and direct injection, the engine uses the Miller combustion cycle and low-pressure exhaust gas recirculation to achieve a thermal efficiency figure of 43.32%, the world’s highest for a mass-produced engine according to the automaker, whilst offering the highest power and torque outputs within its class.

This engine is joined by the DHT Pro three-speed transmission, which integrates two electric motors, transmission and controllers, weighing a combined total of 120 kg. This yields a claimed maximum torque output of 4,920 Nm, says Geely. These will also be joined by a high-efficiency transmission called DCT Evo, which has been developed from the automaker’s existing seven-speed dual-clutch transmission for improved efficiency while reducing weight.

The Leishen Power powertrain brand is also comprised of a new electric drive motor dubbed Leishen E-Drive, that employs a modular design which is intended for 800-volt applications, and is rated for a maximum output of 475 kW (637 hp). Depending on configuration, the Leishen E-Drive motor can propel vehicles through the 0-100 km/h acceleration benchmark in less than three seconds, says Geely.

The Hi-X hybrid powertrain platform the first of its kind to be capable of receiving OTA updates for its entire hybrid powertrain system, and up to 20 driving modes can be offered. The powertrain control unit has data-driven learning capabilities, says Geely.

Its hybrid configuration can help attain a claimed fuel consumption rate of 3.6 litres per 100 km on the NEDC cycle. In terms of performance, the Hi-X hybrid powertrain features a parallel drive mode that improves the efficiency of both the internal combustion engine and the electric motors, said the automaker.

The Hi-X parallel drive mode can be activated from 20 km/h, which Geely says is much lower than the threshold speeds at which other hybrid drive systems can achieve. This difference enables the Hi-X system to have a 20% improvement in efficiency, says Geely.

The DHT Pro transmission can also offer a “catapult start” sequence that improves standing-start acceleration by 50%, it added. Through improved application of its gears, acceleration through the 80-120 km/h measure is aided by releasing 60% of the system’s power reserve, it said.

The earliest models to feature the Leishen Hi-X powertrain platform will include future iterations of the Xingyue (Tugella) and the Xing Rui (Preface), adding that the Geely group of brands will offer a broad range of electrified powertrain options across hybrid, plug-in hybrid and range-extended electric vehicle configurations.

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[brandonnatali]

Ducati Malaysia wins Best After Sales and Marketing

In recognition of its efforts, Ducati Malaysia has been awarded Best Commercial After Sales and Best Marketing for Ducati in the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region. During the annual Ducati APAC National meeting, Ducati Asia-Pacific issues the awards to their regional representatives from 13 countries based on performance over the past year.

Presenting the awards during an online meeting, Marco Biondi Ducati Vice President of Sales & Marketing for Asia Pacific said, “I am extremely proud of the achievements from the colleagues in Malaysia and how well they have steered the brand in these testing times. Malaysian riders are one of the most evolved and it remains a very important market for us.”

Also presented with awards were Best Growing Market of the Year, won by Ducati Philippines and Best Service/Training Team, awarded to Ducati Taiwan, while Ducati South Korea grabbed the Best Importer of the Year award. “Throughout all the years of operating, this is the first year ever Ducati Malaysia has received such awards,” said Dennis Michael, head of Ducati Malaysia, “I would like to express my gratitude to each and every one of our amazing customers for standing by and giving their relentless support to Ducati Malaysia. Thank you, and Forza Ducati!”

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[brandonnatali]

2022 Toyota Raize launched in Japan – new e-Smart Hybrid, 1.2L NA 3-cylinder coming to Perodua Ativa?

Alongside the refreshed Daihatsu Rocky, Toyota has also introduced that car’s sibling, the 2022 Raize, in its home market of Japan. Like the D-badged model, the compact SUV comes with a number of improvements and two new naturally-aspirated powertrains.

The biggest news here is the e-Smart Hybrid, a series hybrid system in the vein of Nissan’s e-Power. Under the bonnet lies a WA-VEX 1.2 litre Atkinson-cycle three-cylinder engine, which produces 82 PS at 5,600 rpm and 105 Nm of torque from 3,200 to 5,200 rpm. None of this gets sent to the front wheels, however.

Instead, the car is powered solely by a 106 PS/170 Nm electric motor, which derives its energy from the petrol mill that functions as a generator. The benefits of this setup are compact packaging and a smaller and more cost-effective 4.3 Ah lithium-ion battery, plus an impressive fuel efficiency figure of 28 km per litre (3.6 litres per 100 km) on the WLTP cycle.

Other new features include a Smart Pedal (S-PDL) function for one-pedal driving, exterior puddle lamps and an optional 150-volt, 1,500-watt power supply for charging electronic devices and powering appliances in emergencies. Unlike the Rocky, there’s nothing to differentiate the hybrid model from the regular Raize, save for the usual Hybrid Synergy Drive badge at the rear.

The other engine option is the regular WA-VE version of the 1.2 litre engine, first seen in Indonesia and replacing the existing 1.0 litre 1KR-VET turbocharged three-pot on front-wheel-drive models (the forced-induction triple is now all-wheel drive only). It makes 87 PS at 6,000 rpm and 113 Nm at 4,500 rpm, down 11 PS and 27 Nm on the 1.0 litre.

The shortfall in performance is compensated by the 10% reduction in fuel consumption, now rated at 20.7 km per litre (4.8 litres per 100 km). Curiously, Toyota is claiming both improved low-end acceleration despite the lower outputs. A dual-mode CVT (D-CVT), which uses a combination of belt and gear drive, remains the sole transmission option for petrol-powered Raize models.

Aside from the new powertrains, the Raize also benefits from some small updates, including the fitment of an electronic parking brake with auto hold. This enables the addition of a stop and go function for the adaptive cruise control, making traffic jams a much more bearable experience.

Speaking of driver assistance tech, the Raize gets an improved stereo windscreen camera, adding nighttime pedestrian detection to autonomous emergency braking and increasing the number of signs the traffic sign recognition system can detect. Unlike the Rocky, the Toyota does not receive the new roadside deviation warning and stagger warning functions, nor cornering trace assist. Instead, buyers can now opt for Smooth Grey Mica Metallic paint as the body colour.

As befits the higher-end Toyota brand, the Raize is slightly pricier than the Rocky, the range starting at 1,707,000 yen (RM62,300) for the base 1.2 litre petrol X variant. The hybrid G and Z models sit at the top of the lineup, priced at 2,163,000 (RM79,000) and 2,328,000 yen (RM85,000) respectively.

Could we see the new powertrains in the Perodua Ativa soon? The e-Smart Hybrid is likely, given that Perodua has already been seen testing the Rocky version on our shores. However, the petrol 1.2 litre would also make an interesting addition as an entry-level engine option, dropping prices below the RM60,000 mark. This would make lower-spec Ativa models a seriously compelling alternative to high-end versions of the Myvi, although the national carmaker may want to avoid cannibalising sales of its bestseller.

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[brandonnatali]

VIDEO REVIEW: 2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class facelift in Malaysia – E200 and E300 CKD; priced from RM327k

The facelifted W213 Mercedes-Benz E-Class was launched back in July this year, shortly after the arrival of the G30 BMW 5 Series LCI. Both the premium executive sedans are locally assembled, and the E-Class is available in two flavours – E 200 Avantgarde and E 300 AMG Line.

Prices start at RM326,943 on-the-road without insurance for the E 200, while the range-topping E 300 goes for RM375,432. These figures are inclusive of a four-year, unlimited-mileage warranty and factor in the ongoing sales tax exemption (100% as this is a CKD model) that has just been extended to June 30, 2022.

Under the bonnet, the E-Class retains the M264 2.0 litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine from before. The base E 200 offers 197 PS from 5,500 to 6,100 rpm and 320 Nm of torque from 1,650 to 4,000 rpm, whereas the E 300 packs 258 PS from 5,800 to 6,100 rpm and 370 Nm from 1,800 to 4,000 rpm. A nine-speed 9G-Tronic automatic transmission sends drive exclusively to the rear wheels.

So, for this video review, we’ll take an in-depth look at the pair to see if it’s any better than the pre-facelift model. We’ve also driven the latest E-Class and 5 Series back-to-back, so watch on to see what the verdict is. Feel free to check out CarBase.my for a more detailed look at the E-Class’ equipment and specifications, too.

GALLERY: Mercedes-Benz E 200 Avantgarde

GALLERY: Mercedes-Benz E 300 AMG Line

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[brandonnatali]

Perodua sales increased by 96.7% in October 2021 – 27,858 units beats previous record set a year ago

Perodua managed to deliver 27,858 vehicles in October 2021, which is a significant increase from the 14,160 units registered in September – about 96.7%. This is a continuation of an upward trend that began when restrictions were gradually lifted from August, a month where the national carmaker notched up just 6,988 registrations.

“This achievement is our commitment towards our customers and represents a 96.7% increase from 14,160 units sold in September 2021. We are now working to further improve production especially for the rest of the year,” said Perodua president and CEO Datuk Zainal Abidin Ahmad.

Last month’s figure also has significance, as it is the highest-ever monthly sales recorded in the national carmaker’s history, beating out the 26,852 units set exactly a year ago in October (certified by the Malaysian Book of Records). With it, Perodua’s year-to-date total now stands at 146,951 units for the first 10 months of 2021, which is 14.5% lower than the 171,861 units recorded in the same period last year.

Looking at the model breakdown, of the 27,858 vehicles delivered last month, the Myvi accounted for 8,761 units. This is followed by the Axia (5,973 units), Bezza (5,257 units), Ativa (3,973 units), Alza (2,553 units) and finally, the Aruz (1,341 units).

In terms of production, Perodua also set a new internal record for the most vehicles produced in a single month, with 29,803 units made in October. “I wish to take this opportunity to thank the Perodua staff who have gone beyond their best to ensure that our customers receive their Perodua vehicle as quickly as possible,” Zainal said, adding that the production figure was beyond Perodua’s current production capacity.

“We also are always mindful of both the safety and health aspect of our entire operations by ensuring that all our employees follow the Covid-19 prevention guidelines while at the same time ensuring that we go beyond all quality requirements,” he continued.

Zainal also said that Perodua welcomed the government’s decision to extend the vehicle sales tax exemption period June 30, 2022, which was announced during the tabling of Budget 2022 (Bajet 2022) last Friday.

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[brandonnatali]

2022 Toyota Avanza, Veloz launching in Indonesia Nov 10, Daihatsu Xenia Nov 11 – D27A Perodua Alza next?

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The all-new 2022 Toyota Avanza and its sportier Veloz variant will be making its debut in Indonesia on November 10, Toyota Astra Motor has told local media. Meanwhile, the Avanza’s Daihatsu Xenia twin will be launching a day later, on November 11.

Both new Low MPVs are expected to meet the public for the first time at the 2021 Gaikindo Indonesia International Auto Show (GIIAS), which will open to the press on November 11. The organisers’ original plan was to have the show in August, but better late than never. We’ve covered GIIAS at BSD City live every year since its inception, but that run was halted in 2020 and we’ll have to sit this one out as well. Soon, perhaps.

Today’s second-generation Avanza has been around for a decade now, having made its debut in Indonesia way back in 2011. In that decade, rivals have come and gone – for instance, the original Honda BR-V debut in 2015, and a new one will be joining the Avanza at GIIAS. Long overdue is understating it.

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For such a long wait, it’s fair to expect a comprehensive change, and it looks like the Avanza is unrecognisable. We’ve seen shots of the seven-seater Veloz in a showroom last month, but the lead pic above shows a clearer view of the new MPV’s rear in white, taken in Karawang, West Java where it is made.

The new Avanza sports full-width taillights broken up by the Toyota emblem. A horizontal LED strip is trendy now – as seen on the new Toyota Harrier and Lexus UX SUVs – but we’ll see how much of this is light and how much of it its decorative trim. The Avanza’s tail lamps have always been vertical, so this is a big departure that also highlights the substantial width of the new car.

Below the sculpted tail lamps are fake vents with a reflector – these remind me of the sideways-T trim on the G20 BMW 3 Series. Elsewhere, there’s a wide skid plate-style trim in silver, Veloz branding on the number plate garnish, and a Q badge denoting the Indonesian trim level.

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We get a good view of the new Avanza’s sides on the white car, which wears the same two-tone alloys as the showroom unit – they are rather generously sized. Also, the wider angle picture of the white car gives us a better look at the new Avanza’s lines – a sculpted belt line flows from lamp to lamp, in straight fashion “spearing” through the door handles.

The outlines for the wheel arches are drawn rather high up from the actual arches – no SUV-style black plastic here but there are (possibly mock) roof rails. There’s also a chrome trim that connects the daylight opening to the rear glass, separating the middle section of the body from the D pillars.

We’ve previously had a look at the new Avanza’s bold face, which is dominated by a large trapezoidal grille. In Veloz form, the grille is filled by a Y-pattern mesh and flanked by slim LED headlights with a DRL strip below. There’s a chrome strip on the top of the grille, which flows into the headlamps and continues on the front wings to the windows. From there, it joins the D-pillar trim mentioned above.

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The interior is also a big departure, a clean sheet design sporting sharp lines and a high centre console. There’s a big freestanding touchscreen head unit, a new design steering wheel with two spokes of buttons, push start and what looks like ambient lighting strips around the gear lever. Behind said lever is an electronic parking brake switch, on an Avanza! The layout and sharp angles remind me of the Ativa/Rocky/Raize dashboard, but slightly less funky, flatter and rendered in two-tone.

The shot of the passenger section shows a huge roof-mounted screen, a single pop-out cupholder, USB charging ports and sliding seats. Interestingly, the front seat backs have organising slots above the usual lower pocket. There’s one wide slot (probably good enough for a tablet) and a smaller one that looks perfect for a phone. A simple but handy feature for a family wagon.

Quantum leap stuff, if you remember how the outgoing Avanza is like. No official details yet, but we’re expecting a radical change under the skin too, specifically a switch to the Daihatsu New Global Architecture (DNGA) that also underpins the Ativa/Rocky/Raize. If so, the Avanza will be moving from ladder frame to monocoque construction and rear-wheel drive to FWD.

Perodua was caught testing a funny-looking Avanza with budget MPV rivals in 2019

Will the Avanza carry on with 1.5L NA power – like the new BR-V and Mitsubishi Xpander – or will it share the 1.0L three-cylinder turbo and 1.2L three-pot NA options from the Indonesian-market Rocky/Raize? What’s certain is that active safety and driver assist features will make its debut on the model, branded as Toyota Safety Sense – note the Perodua-style stereo cameras at the top of the windscreen.

If you’re wondering what all this has got to do with the Perodua Alza, here’s a recap. Based on the now defunct Daihatsu Boon Luminas a.k.a. Toyota Passo Sette, the current Alza was unique in our region by being based on a JDM model. It’s 12 years old now, and a replacement is due. Merging it with the Toyota/Daihatsu budget MPV for the region – the Avanza/Xenia – makes sense for economies of scale.

DNGA for the next Alza/Avanza fits nicely into the Perodua picture as well – the Rawang-based carmaker has invested heavily into DNGA production for the Ativa, which will surely not be a one-off, but a start of a new era. Like Daihatsu in Indonesia, Perodua produces certain T-badged models, and the NR engine it manufactures is supplied to Toyota as well. All within the family.

Artist’s impression of the D27A Perodua Alza – click to enlarge

As for the timeline, in May, Sapura, a Perodua vendor, said that the new Alza, codenamed D27A, is expected to surface by the end of this year. “We are currently in the development phase of parts awarded for the Alza replacement model (D27A) expected to be launched by end 2021. We have also been awarded the supply of Case Differential Assembly by Akashi Kikai Industry Malaysia, a Tier-1 vendor for Perodua’s transmission module, forecasted for mass production in December 2021,” Sapura said in its 2021 annual report.

Of course, that might be the initial timeline and the target given by P2 to suppliers, and things might have been delayed due to Covid-19, but we know that the D27A Alza is coming very soon, even if it’s not in 2021. Perodua’s focus now would be on the 2022 Myvi facelift, which has been spotted on a commercial shoot.

For now, what do you think of the Avanza’s major reboot? Here’s the new second-gen Honda BR-V for comparison.

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[brandonnatali]

2021 Honda City 1.5L V Sensing launched in Malaysia – Honda Sensing suite with AEB; priced from RM90k

Honda Malaysia has introduced a new variant for the City called the 1.5L V Sensing, which retails for RM90,212 on-the-road without insurance – full sales tax exemption factored in. The new offering sits between the existing RS e:HEV hybrid (RM105,950) and V (RM86,561) in the line-up, gaining extra features over the latter for a premium of RM3,651.

The first is the Honda Sensing suite of safety and driver assist systems, which includes Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Collision Mitigation Braking System (autonomous emergency braking or AEB), Forward Collision Warning (FCW), Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS), Road Departure Mitigation (RDM), Lane Departure Warning (LDW) and Auto High-Beam (AHB).

These Sensing features already come standard with the RS e:HEV, but they weren’t available previously for other City variants, until now. The V Sensing also gets a seven-inch digital instrument cluster display instead of the analogue setup found in the V.

Beyond that, the rest of the V Sensing’s spec sheet is identical to the V, with standard items being 16-inch alloy wheels; LED headlamps, front fog lamps, daytime running lights and taillights; keyless entry and engine start (with remote function), paddle shifters, cruise control, single-zone automatic air-conditioning, leather upholstery, an eight-inch Display Audio head unit (with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay support) and eight speakers.

There are also six airbags, rear Isofix child seat anchors, Vehicle Stability Assist, ABS, EBD, brake assist, hill start assist, emergency stop signal, two reverse sensors, a multi-angle rear-view camera and Honda’s LaneWatch camera.

Under the hood, it’s the same 1.5 litre naturally-aspirated DOHC four-cylinder petrol engine rated at 121 PS at 6,600 rpm and 145 Nm of torque, with drive being sent to the front wheels thought a CVT. The top speed is identical to the V at 195 km/h, although the 0-100 km/h acceleration time is slower by a tenth at 10.5 seconds.

With the addition of the V Sensing, Honda customers who want a City with active safety systems are no longer limited to the hybrid variant. Are you among those who have been hoping for such a variant to be introduced?

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[brandonnatali]

OPINION: Not able to charge an EV if you stay in an apartment in Malaysia? Time for a ‘right to charge’ law

The first structured steps towards electromobility in Malaysia looks like it will be taken soon, but like with everything nascent, there will undoubtedly be hurdles to overcome in the gradual switch to electric vehicles (EVs).

One of the larger issues that need to be addressed in Malaysia is the lack of charging infrastructure. Those more in the know will say that you don’t really need that, as you’re more likely to charge from home.

Now, that’s all good and fine if you happen to live in landed property, but what about those who are living in apartment buildings? That covers a large population, especially in city centres.

Unlike a house, it isn’t as simple as deciding that you want a charger and having it installed – if you happen to stay in a strata title property, the decision as to whether or not you’re allowed to install a charger at your own designated parking bay isn’t yours. That falls under the purview of a joint management body (JMB), which maintains the apartment or condominium.

It’s the JMB that dictates if, not when, you can make the switch to electrification. Many, or even a large majority of apartment JMBs in Malaysia, have avoided this issue completely, saying it’s just not possible, stating either high costs or the low number of users that will benefit from it.

That’s not a big problem with newer buildings, as most of them would have already been designed with private chargers in mind. Pulling power for your own charger installation – with a separate meter for billing purposes – can be done easily, or at least with minimal costs to the owner.

However, for older buildings with outdated power grids, doing that is much harder. In certain cases, the building’s sub-station would have to be completely overhauled to permit such development, at a significant cost.

It also comes down to how many owners will actually benefit from it. Asking a JMB to spend a large amount of money (taken from the sinking fund, which everyone in the building contributes to) for the benefit of a few owners may not sound like such a fair thing to do. That’s of course something that the JMBs will have to work out.

Management bodies have responded to such requests in different ways. We’ve seen some buildings, admittedly more upscale ones, revamp their power supply lines to support private chargers, allowing owners who wish to install chargers to then do so, at their own cost (this cost would be relatively low, as the large chunk of work would have already been done at the building level).

We applaud such proactive JMBs, as the effect is multi-levelled. Doing so not only benefits owners that already plan to purchase EVs soon, but it also opens the door for other owners to perhaps think of doing so in the future. At the very least, EV ownership becomes a legitimate option for them.

In the long run, it can also help to either maintain or even increase the property prices, as being “EV ready” can be seen as an additional USP for those looking to buy a unit there. It’s like having a sauna or a squash court in the building – prospective owners may not end up using them much or even at all, but just the thought of being able to use those facilities in the future is definitely a bonus.

At the other end of the scale, we’ve also seen many JMBs completely rule out allowing the installation of private chargers . If you live in one of those buildings, any thought of having an EV in the future is pretty much ruled out, no matter how much you’re buying into the future.

The only way for all this to change is for the relevant authorities to implement a form of “right to charge” law. In Malaysia, deciding on such a move would fall under the jurisdiction of the ministry of housing and local government (KPKT).

The call must be that it needs to do so. While it shouldn’t go as far as making it mandatory for all apartment buildings to support private chargers, the ministry should be open to at least providing a guideline for both building JMBs and owners to refer to.

This would provide an avenue to raise the topic further (what can you do, or who can you speak to) if, for example, your JMB has said no, having set guidelines would put some pressure for the JMB to, at the very least, consider the proposal. Ultimately, the issue cannot be skirted any longer for what is surely to come.

Like it or not, EVs are the future. We can all agree on that. At this point, it’s a matter of when rather than if for EVs to take over, so future proofing your building can only been seen as a good thing, right?

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[brandonnatali]

2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA CKD launched in Malaysia – A200 and A250 AMG Line, from RM233k to RM266k

Mercedes-Benz Malaysia (MBM) today launched the locally-assembled GLA alongside the CKD W177 A-Class Sedan, with the H247 debuting in the same two variant forms it did when the CBU was introduced here last December, namely the GLA 200 Progressive Line and the GLA 250 AMG Line.

Both cars retain the equipment levels seen on the imported versions, but have become cheaper as a result of local assembly. The GLA 200 is currently priced at RM232,379 (on-the-road without insurance), while the GLA 250 AMG Line goes for RM266,164, with the sales and service tax (SST) exemption that is in place until the end of the year.

This makes the GLA 200 Progressive Line CKD RM11,821 cheaper, while the locally-made GLA 250 AMG Line costs RM19,173 less than the imported version, with SST in place for all.

The prices for both CKD versions will be revised to RM242,888 for the GLA 200 and RM278,888 for the GLA 250 AMG Line when the SST exemption period ends. Even at full regulation pricing, local assembly knocks off RM10,000 from the GLA 200 (the CBU was supposed to sell at RM252,888) and RM17,000 from the GLA 250 (which would have gone for RM295,888).

As previously, there are two engine options available for the car. The GLA 200 is equipped with a Renault-sourced M282 1.3 litre turbocharged petrol four-cylinder mill that offers 163 PS at 5,500 rpm and 250 Nm of torque from 1,620 to 4,000 rpm. Paired with a Getrag seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, performance figures include a 0-100 km/h time of 8.7 seconds and a 210 km/h top speed.

As for the GLA 250, it’s powered by the automaker’s M260 2.0 litre engine, with 224 PS at 5,500 rpm and 350 Nm between 1,500 and 4,500 rpm in the way of output. Working together with an eight-speed DCT, the unit gets the car to 100 km/h from standstill in 6.9 seconds and has a higher 240 km/h top speed. Unlike the previous-gen GLA 250, this one doesn’t have an all-wheel-drive system.

Exterior specifications common to both variants include LED High Performance headlights, a mirror package and aluminium roof rails. The GLA 200 gets a Progressive Line exterior and rides on 18-inch five-twin-spoke alloy wheels, while the GLA 250 features AMG Line bodystyling elements such as a front spoiler, gloss black trim and a trapezoidal grille with chrome pins, and retains the two-tone 19-inch AMG five-twin-spoke alloy wheels as seen on the CBU model.

Standard equipment includes a Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) system with twin 10.25-inch instrument and infotainment displays, keyless entry, push-button start, parking assist, a reverse camera, a Light and Sight package and power-adjustable front seats with memory.

GALLERY: 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA A 200 Progressive Line CKD

GALLERY: 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA A 250 AMG Line CKD

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[brandonnatali]

Honda CR-V Black Edition now in Malaysia – RM162k

Honda Malaysia has unveiled the Honda CR-V Black Edition, which as its name suggests, is a dark-themed version of the popular SUV. The Black Edition is based on the mid 1.5L TC-P 2WD variant of the 2021 CR-V facelift, with Crystal Black Pearl paint. It is priced at RM161,913 on-the-road without insurance, with SST exemption. That’s a RM4,298 premium over the non-black regular car.

The CR-V Black Edition features a black front grille and black front bumper garnish, leaving just two strips of brightwork on the face. There’s also a black rear bumper garnish and 18-inch alloys in piano black.

It’s similarly dark inside too, with trim for the steering wheel, digital meter panel and air con vents all in piano black. The wood trim on the centre console, dashboard and doors are in black instead of brown; this is matched by black headlining and black leather seats with “Black Edition” embroidered on the front seats.

No change to the rest of the spec sheet. The 1.5L TC-P 2WD is powered by a 1.5 litre VTEC Turbo engine with 193 PS/243 Nm, and power is sent to the front wheels via a CVT. The Honda Sensing ADAS suite of driver assist tech is present, along with Remote Engine Start, which allows one to start the engine and turn on the AC remotely. Also very useful is the powered tailgate, which can be opened with a kick.

HM says that since the first CKD locally assembled CR-V rolled out in 2003, it has sold over 108,000 units of the SUV, which is now a household name. Of that total, the current fifth-generation model – launched here in July 2017 – contributed over 43,000 units. The CR-V leads the non-national SUV segment with 24% share as of August 2021.

Full review of the Honda CR-V facelift here.

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[brandonnatali]

Mercedes-Benz A-Class Sedan CKD launched in Malaysia – A200 and A250 AMG Line, RM211k-RM240k

It’s been a long time coming but CKD locally-assembled Mercedes-Benz compact cars are finally here, with Mercedes-Benz Malaysia launching not only the V177 A-Class Sedan but also the H247 GLA SUV today. It’s the former we’re looking at first, the small four-door looking to sate Malaysia’s appetite for premium sedans.

Prices have come down to the tune of between RM11,000 and RM19,000 over the previous fully-imported models, sitting at RM210,903 for the A 200 Progressive Line and RM239,858 for the A 250 AMG Line. These figures are on-the-road without insurance, inclusive of the sales and service tax (SST) exemption until the end of the year.

With the tax included, the numbers go up to RM219,888 and RM249,888 respectively, which is RM10,000 and RM18,000 cheaper than the outgoing cars. As usual, a four-year, unlimited-mileage warranty is included with every purchase.

Both variants are very similar to their CBU counterparts, down to what’s under the bonnet. The A 200 continues to be powered by a Renault-sourced M282 1.33 litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 163 PS at 5,500 rpm and 250 Nm of torque from 1,620 to 4,000 rpm. It drives the front wheels through a Getrag seven-speed wet dual-clutch transmission.

Meanwhile, the A 250 is motivated by an in-house 2.0 litre M260 turbo four-pot churning out 224 PS at 5,500 rpm and 350 Nm between 1,800 and 4,000 rpm. The gearbox is also a Mercedes unit, again a seven-speed wet dual-clutch transmission.

The equipment list is all but identical, with the only differences being the switch from run-flat to regular tyres on the A 200 (with a repair kit; the A 250 already comes with standard rubber), the addition of a blind spot monitor on the A 250 and the removal of the A 250’s cross-drilled front brake discs.

GALLERY: Mercedes-Benz A 200 Progressive Line

GALLERY: Mercedes-Benz A 250 AMG Line

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[brandonnatali]

Mazda MX-30 Electric is coming to Malaysia – report

Mazda distributor Bermaz is planning to bring in the Mazda MX-30 Electric, according to Maybank Investment Bank in its “Malaysia Automotive Budget wish-lists” research.

Focusing on public listed automotive groups in Malaysia and their plans for electrification, the note says that the arrival of the EV version of the MX-30 is subject to the principal’s approval, and if Malaysia’s upcoming EV policy is attractive enough.

A 2019 Tokyo Motor Show debutant, the Mazda MX-30 Electric has a 145 PS (107 kW) electric motor with 271 Nm of torque, driving the front wheels via a single speed reduction gear. The e-motor is juiced by a 35.5 kWh lithium-ion battery, which provides up to 224 km of range.

The MX-30 supports AC charging up to 6.6 kW via a Type 2 port as well as DC fast charging up to 50 kW using a CCS port. The approximate charging time from 20-80% takes three hours with the former, while the latter requires just 36 minutes.

There’s also a 155 PS/200 Nm mild hybrid version of the MX-30 with a 2.0 litre engine, 24-volt M Hybrid system and a six-speed automatic transmission, but the Maybank IB note specifically says “BEV” for battery electric vehicle.

They didn’t give a timeline, but then again, back in early 2020, another report – by AmInvestment Bank – said that the MX-30 will arrive here in October 2020, and that didn’t happen. Covid perhaps, but it’s enough to know that Mazda’s EV is in Bermaz’s plans.

The note adds that Bermaz has identified private charging operators (ChargEV is a PCO example) to collaborate with, and its EV models (Kia and Peugeot are now under Bermaz) will have subscription-based plans for batteries to address cost and warranty issues. No one has done it here before, so it remains to be seen how the battery subscription model is implemented.

More on the Mazda MX-30 here – what do you think of this unusual-looking EV with RX-8-style rear suicide doors?

GALLERY: Mazda MX-30 in Soul Red Crystal

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[brandonnatali]

AD: Trapo launches next generation of its Classic, Eco and Hex car mats – now up to 10 times more durable

There are plenty of accessories that you can buy to improve your car, with device chargers, air filters, phone mounts and even portable dustbins being a few examples. However, there’s only one accessory that you will literally step on every day on your drive, and that’s a car’s floor mats.

Designed to protect a car’s floorboard from dirt, water and abrasion from contact with your shoes, car mats do a lot, but they will eventually get worn down and need to be replaced. If you’re looking for replacements that are a level above those typically offered by OEMs, Trapo’s new generation of EVA car mats are well worth considering.

As a leading brand in the vehicle accessories market, Trapo has been manufacturing and delivering custom-made car mats to satisfied customers for years. The lessons and feedback gained have led to the creation of new products, and the latest range launched recently boasts significant improvements.

The latest line-up consists of the Trapo Classic Mark III, Trapo Eco II and Trapo Hex II, each specially developed to meet the different needs of customers. All three continue to deliver on the core Trapo qualities – stylish, hygienic and anti-bacterial – but now feature a more sustainable production method as well as some design tweaks.

Trapo now uses recycled polyethylene tetraphyte (RPET) plastic for the lining of its car mats, with each set produced requiring a dozen 500 ml plastic bottles to be recycled. The new mats also get a new eyelet design made from durable EVA, with different sizes to ensure compatibility with a variety of vehicles.

Starting with the Trapo Classic III, the third generation of the brand’s mainstay, everyday car mat is now twice as durable compared to its predecessor and offers more customisation options. You can now choose from a new brown base colour in addition to the existing grey and black, while there are now six colours for the lining, with brown and green joining the current red, blue, grey and black. A more subtle revision is the wording depth on the foot padding, which has been reduced to 2 mm from 3 mm for a more discreet look.

For the budget-conscious, there’s the Trapo Eco II that features a dual-layer construction and continues to be made entirely out of recycled material. Just like the Trapo Classic Mark III, the wording depth is 2 mm, and the customisation options now include two lining colours, with brown joining the existing black; the base remains black as before.

A new feature available with the Eco II is the Eco Duo foot pad, which is an optional add-on that can be had in a variety of colours, and is designed to provide users with the flexibility to relocate the padding to better suit their seating position.

Those that want the best premium offering available can look to the Trapo Hex II, which has been engineered to provide 10 times better durability than the first Hex thanks to tougher materials that result in a car mat with increased hardness.

In addition to the enhanced robustness, the Hex II also gains a revamped plate finished in black that is more eco-friendly, as it is made from a combination of 50% polypropylene plastic (PP) and 50% rice husks. Trapo’s deliberate use of sustainable materials in its car mats is in line with the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goals, specifically goal number 12 for responsible consumption and production.

Regardless of the Trapo car mat that catches your eye, rest assured that each one features anti-bacterial technology from Japan that eliminates 99.99% of bacteria found on a car mat with a simple rinse, while a special deodorising mechanism also ensures no unpleasant smells linger beneath your feet.

The unique textured surface of Trapo car mats is also easy to clean and serves to effectively trap mud and dirt, which are common things that we bring into our cars on our shoes. Not only that, the material used is waterproof and the surface can dry itself within 15 minutes to ensure your car’s floorboards aren’t affected.

With over 1,000 car models catered to, every Trapo car mat set is designed and produced to perfectly fit in your car with zero hassle when installing. Additionally, anti-slip features also prevent slippage, ensuring the car mat stays put, with Trapo Fix being the top-of-the-line solution that is available with the Hex II.

So, if you’re looking to upgrade your car mats to something better than stock, Trapo has got you covered with its next-generation range of car mats that are customisable to your liking. Find out more by heading over to Trapo’s official website, where you can also inquire further or place an order.

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[brandonnatali]

BMW Malaysia working with GreenTech, Shell, TNB to expand electric vehicle charging network in Malaysia

BMW Malaysia aims to expand its electric vehicle charging network in collaboration with energy provider Tenaga Nasional Berhaad (TNB), as well as with partners GreenTech Malaysia and Shell, the company has said during a roundtable briefing.

GreenTech Malaysia will be partnering with Yinson Green Technologies to grow EV charging infrastructure in the country, and Yinson will hold a majority stake in the joint venture that will provide these EV charging stations, The Edge Markets reported.

GreenTech has been a long-time collaborator with BMW for charging facilities, beginning in 2015 with the offering of the ChargEV public EV charging network to BMW i8 customers in Malaysia. The collaboration is in order to increase customer confidence in the viability of EV use in the country, said BMW Malaysia, and more details on the network expansion will be released in due course.

BMW Malaysia has previously stated in August that it plans to install a network of DC fast chargers at key locations across the country, including at highway rest stops, shopping malls and at dealers. At the time, the initial rollout of the charging network has been expected to take place within four to six months, or through the first quarter of 2022.

With Shell, BMW Malaysia will be expanding upon its partnership that saw the opening of the Reserve + Shell Recharge bays in 2019. Shell has also been the global service-fill oil provider for BMW Group vehicles since 2015.

Meanwhile between BMW Malaysia’s collaboration partners GreenTech Malaysia and Tenaga Nasional, the national energy utility provider announced in 2019 that it is installing 100 new EV charging stations through its wholly-owned subsidiary, TNB Energy Services (TNBES) and the Malaysian Green Technology Corporation (MGTC).

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[brandonnatali]

2021 Toyota GR86 launched in Japan – from RM102k

Unveiled for the first time in April 2021, the second-generation Toyota GR86 has officially gone on sale in Japan, with prices starting from 2,799,000 yen (RM102k) to 3,512,000 yen (RM128k). It is also available via the Kinto One subscription service from as low as 21,450 yen (RM783) a month. The automaker plans to sell 700 units of the sports car a month.

In terms of design, the GR86 is largely identical to the Subaru BRZ, save for the front bumper and wheel designs. It sits on the Subaru Global Platform, which brings 50% more torsional rigidity to the table, thanks to a reinforced chassis mounting system. It weighs between 1,260 kg to 1,290 kg depending on the trim, and the size is similar to its predecessor.

The biggest news this time is the fitment of the larger FA24 2.4 litre naturally-aspirated flat-four petrol engine that makes 235 PS at 7,000 rpm and 250 Nm of torque at 3,700 rpm. It’s rear-wheel drive only, with transmission options being a six-speed manual or six-speed Super ECT automatic. The 0-100 km/h sprint is now done in 6.3 seconds, which is 1.1 seconds quicker from before.

Other technologies offered with the engine include Toyota’s D-4S direct and port injection system, along with double overhead chain-driver camshafts, four valves per cylinder, and dual Active Valve Control System (DAVCS) to control valve timing on the intake and exhaust.

Besides that, automatic models are the only ones available with Subaru’s EyeSight driver assist technology, featuring various collision mitigation functions and pre-collision braking.

Customers also get to choose from an array of GR Parts, which includes aesthetic and performance upgrades such as GR suspension kit, big brake kit with monobloc callipers, 19-inch Y-spoke forged aluminium wheels, and carbon-fibre add-ons.

GALLERY: Toyota GR 86 with GR Parts

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