In conjunction with World Environment Day on June 5, PLUS has committed to a 2050 Net Zero Goal, aligned with national aspirations. The plan includes an interim-term target to reduce its greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions within its operations by 35% by 2030, against a 2017 baseline.

The initiatives have already started. PLUS recently achieved 25% reduced energy consumption through the implementation of measures such as retrofitting of LED lights and harnessing renewable energy via solar panels at its offices and highway R&Rs.

The end-game 2050 Net Zero Goal pledge will be achieved by harnessing of renewable energy, adopting low carbon mobility practices, tapping on nature-based solutions and driving a circular economy mindset.

“As Malaysia’s largest highway operator, we believe in pioneering sustainability to advance the highway industry. Committing to a net zero goal will drive us towards innovation and collaboration which will contribute towards nation-building,” said PLUS MD Datuk Nik Airina Nik Jaffar.

“To realize our mission statement in connecting communities to shape a safe and sustainable future, we are committed to operate in an environmentally conscious and socially responsible manner while upholding good governance,” she added.

The North South Highway operator will launch its sustainability report this month.

The post PLUS declares Net Zero commitment – interim-term target is to reduce greenhouse gases by 35% by 2030 appeared first on Paul Tan's Automotive News.

Entering the Malaysian scooter market is the 2023 Vespa Primavera Colour Vibe priced at RM22,500. Pricing does not include road tax insurance and registration and a two-year or 20,000 km warranty against manufacturing defects is provided.

With a new name for the same iconic Vespa scooter the Primavera Colour Vibe comes in a special colour scheme. A two-tone livery paints the body in Orange Tramonto and Blue Audace, matched with graphics and footboard in similar shades and contrasted with black striping.

Power for the Primavera Colour Vibe comes from Vespa three-valve, air-cooled single-cylinder i-GET mill displacing 154.8 cc. Power is rated at 13 hp at 7,750 rpm with 12.8 Nm of torque at 6,500 rpm, going to the back wheel via CVT gearbox.

Braking for the Primavera is done with single hydraulic disc in front using a 220 diameter disc with front wheel ABS. The back end gets a 140 mm mechanical drum brake and the Primavera Colour Vibe rolls on 12-inch wheels.

Suspension uses a single arm in front with shock absorber while the back end is held up by a shock absorber coming with four-position preload.

The post 2023 Vespa Primavera Colour Vibe Malaysian launch, RM22,300, in Orange Tramonto and Blue Audace appeared first on Paul Tan's Automotive News.

After revealing the Lexus LBX earlier this week, the Japanese carmaker will host a double feature on June 8 which will see the debut of the all-new GX and TX. Both SUVs have been teased before, but to keep the hype train chugging along, Lexus has released new teaser images to give us a slightly better idea of what to expect.

Starting with the off-road-focused GX, we already know the third-generation model will be a very boxy vehicle based on past teasers. With the new image, we get a decent look at the SUV’s front end, which features triple-element headlamps, L-shaped daytime running lights as well as a more rugged take on the company’s trademark spindle grille.

Said grille appears to be of a more subdued size compared to other Lexus models and is accompanied by a lower vent finished in body colour for some contrast. We can also see a heavily sculpted clamshell bonnet, roof rails and upright A-pillars, the last of which are reminiscent of the Mercedes-Benz G-Class.

While there isn’t a shot of the GX’s rear, a previous teaser image confirms it will have full-width taillights and very pronounced wheel arches. The general shape when viewed from the back reminds us of the Land Rover Defender, but the interior is being kept a secret for now.

As for the TX, parts of the three-row SUV’s exterior and interior were teased previously. Now, we are being shown the face, which sports a frameless spindle grille with prominent slats that are accompanied by small headlamps with L-shaped DRLs that extend into a trim strip just below the Lexus badge. A side view of the SUV shows similarities with the Toyota Grand Highlander, which is said to be the sister model to the TX.

GALLERY: 2024 Lexus GX teasers

GALLERY: 2024 Lexus TX teasers

The post 2024 Lexus GX, TX SUVs teased again – June 8 debut appeared first on Paul Tan's Automotive News.

For next year, the 2024 Ducati Panigale V2 sportsbike comes in a black on black livery, joining the the classic Ducati Red. For Malaysia, the 2023 Panigale V2 is priced at RM129,900 eluding road tax, insurance and registration.

Also new for the 2024 Panigale V2 is the fitment of Pirelli Diablo Rosso IV Corsa tyres.
The new Panigale V2 colour scheme is primarily dark matt grey, interspersed with gloss black accents. and prominent Panigale V2 logo.

This is complemented by details on the tank, fairings and wheels finished in Ducati Red. The saddle is clad with new graphics and materials.

Mechanical equipment remains unchanged, with the Euro 5 compliant 955 cc Superquadro V-twin pumping out 155 hp at 10,750 rpm and a peak torque of 104 Nm at 9,000 rpm. Ducati’s full suite of riding aids is standard on the Panigale V2.

These include ABS Cornering EVO, Ducati Traction Control (DTC) EVO 2, Ducati Wheelie Control (DWC) EVO, Ducati Quick Shift up/down (DQS) EVO 2 and Engine Brake Control (EBC) EVO. The 2024 Panigale V2 is sold alongside the Panigale V2 Bayliss, priced at RM149,900 in Malaysia, and remains the only V-twin sportsbike in Ducati’s range off motorcycles.

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Glove company Careplus has signed an electric vehicle deal with GoAuto that will include the setting-up of an importation, distribution, assembling and manufacturing hub for EVs via a couple of joint venture companies. The glovemaker is listed on Bursa Malaysia the deal was announced in a filing with the bourse dated June 2.

One of the JV companies will be for the manufacturing plant, and the parties have earmarked a 74-acre land in Chembong, Negeri Sembilan for the purpose. The land is currently owned by Careplus, which will hold 51% stake in the venture. The land is described as “not currently yielding any returns” to the glovemaker, which was founded in 2010.

The second JV company is Intro Synergy, currently a wholly-owned GoAuto subsidiary that Careplus will buy a 30% stake by way of share swap. This company is responsible for the importation, distribution and sales business of the Neta EV brand.

Careplus also intends to step its toes into the vehicle retailing business, and a separate JV company will be set up to open Neta EV dealerships “and to further expand into dealership of other EV brands with the support from GoAuto’s expertise”. GoAuto will also “use its best endeavour to direct other vehicle brands distribution” to this JV, which is 70% controlled by Careplus.

Chinese EV brand Neta made its Malaysian debut last month with the Neta V, currently Malaysia’s cheapest EV at RM99,800, although the first 100 customers will receive a RM10,000 rebate to make it RM89,800. The Neta V has a 38.54 kWh battery that’s good for 380 km range in the NEDC. It powers an e-motor with 95 PS/150 Nm – 0-50 km/h takes 3.9 seconds and top speed is a modest 120 km/h.

The Neta V supports AC charging at a max of 6.6 kW, with a full charge taking eight hours. DC fast charging at 100 kW gets the battery from 30% to 80% state of charge in 30 minutes. There’s also a vehicle-to-load (V2L) system capable of delivering up to 3.3 kW to your accessories. More on the Neta V here.

If the budget V looks a bit odd to you, check out the Neta S electric sedan that GoAuto has brought in for previews. The sleek four-door has 462 PS, up to 715 km range and scissor doors.

GALLERY: Neta V in Malaysia

GALLERY: Neta S in Malaysia, preview

The post Glovemaker Careplus signs Neta EV deal with GoAuto – plant in Chembong N9, CKD Neta V coming soon? appeared first on Paul Tan's Automotive News.

Ahead of the 100th anniversary of the 24 Hours of Le Mans this weekend, Toyota has unveiled a very sporty version of its latest Prius. Officially known as the Prius 24h Le Mans Centennial GR Edition, the model pays tribute to the historic endurance race and its role in the Japanese carmaker’s development of racing hybrid technology since 2012.

Toyota has secured five consecutive Le Mans wins since 2018 and is currently the defending champion, with the GR010 Hybrid competing this year to hopefully extend the streak with a sixth straight victory.

That hybrid race car is the inspiration for the GR-modified Prius you see here, which features several motorsport-inspired parts. These include a carbon-fibre bonnet and an aerodynamic package consisting of new side skirts, front canards, a large rear wing and a prominent rear diffuser.

Compared to a standard Prius, the GR Edition comes with extended wheel arches to accommodate the wider track resulting from new suspension hardware paired with 235/50 profile Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tyres and black 18-inch wheels.

Toyota also swapped out the front bumper for one with a wide, rectangular grille as well as a lip spoiler and square clusters of LED headlamps, the last of which is reminiscent of the headlamps on its GR010 Hybrid. No mention was made if the hybrid powertrain has been altered for more performance.

If you’re wondering why the GR Edition is parked next to the a Mazda MX-30 R-EV, it’s because both companies, together with the Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) are holding an exhibition at the Manufacturers’ Village of Le Mans.

In 1991, ‘Japan. Endless Discovery’ was a JNTO initiative that was carried out in the year Mazda fielded the legendary 787B that won Le Mans, becoming the only Japanese carmaker to do so at the time. Today, Toyota is the only Japanese car brand to compete in the endurance race, so the exhibition pays homage to this legacy and serves as a platform to showcase the goal of a carbon-neutral society.

The post Toyota GR Prius concept pays tribute to 24 Hours of Le Mans – aero package, wider track, carbon bonnet appeared first on Paul Tan's Automotive News.

Semalam tular satu video yang dipercayai berlaku di Cameron Highland, di mana seorang lelaki berbadan sasa ‘menunjal’ kepala seorang pemandu wanita kerana tidak berpuas hati wanita berkenaan memotong kenderaannya secara merbahaya.

Susulan kejadian itu, Berita Harian melaporkan bahawa Polis Perak telahpun menahan seorang lelaki yang dipercayai terlibat dalam insiden tersebut. Lelaki berkenaan ditahan sebentar tadi dan dibawa ke Ibu Pejabat Polis Daerah (IPD) Tapah untuk tindakan lanjut.

Berita tersebut turut menyebut bahawa Ketua Polis Perak, Datuk Mohd Yusri Hassan Basri akan mengeluarkan kenyataan berhubung perkara itu dalam masa terdekat.

Dalam video berdurasi 59 saat yang tular berkenaan, dapat dilihat seorang lelaki berbaju merah keluar daripada kereta Proton Persona yang dipandunya dan mengetuk cermin kenderaan di belakangnya sebelum memarahi pemandu wanita serta ‘menunjal’ kepala mangsa.

Kejadian itu berlaku kira-kira jam 5.30 petang semalam, dan pemandu wanita berusia 24 tahun berkenaan dilemparkan kata-kata kesat oleh lelaki itu sebelum kepalanya ditunjal.

The post ‘Abang Sado’ tunjal kepala wanita sudah ditahan polis appeared first on Paul Tan's Automotive News.

Honda Elevate telah membuat penampilan global pertama di India, dan ia menjadi tanda kemasukan semula jenama tersebut ke dalam pasaran segmen SUV di negara itu (sebelum ini ada CR-V dan BR-V tetapi telah dihentikan). Tempahan untuk model baru ini akan dibuka pada bulan Julai dan harganya rasminya hanya akan diumumkan pada waktu itu. Mengikut jangkaan, ia akan dijual bermula pada 1.05 juta rupee (RM58,518).

Menurut Honda, nama Elevate itu menggambarkan pemerkasaan, pembebasan, penerokaan, kepelbagaian, aspirasi, transformasi dan evolusi. Model ini akan bersaing dalam pasaran SUV segmen B yang cukup kompetitif, mencabar Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Volkswagen Taigun, Skoda Kushaq, Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara dan Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder.

Untuk dimensi, Elevate mencatat ukuran panjang 4,312 mm, lebar 1,790 mm, tinggi 1,650 mm dan jarak roda 2,650 mm. Ini meletakkan ia hampir seperti Creta dan HR-V yang berada dalam pasaran kita, tetapi Elevate mengatasi jarak roda kedua-dua model yang disebutkan sebanyak 40 mm. Ia juga mencatat jarak dari tanah 220 mm dan luas ruang simpanan belakang 458 liter.

Berkenaan reka bentuk, Elevate tampil tegap dengan di hadapan terdapat gril yang besar serta lampu utama nipis yang bersambung di bahagian tengah dengan kemasan krom. Muka seakan CR-V ini diperlengkap dengan lampu kabus di hujung bampar serta skid plate hiasa di bawah bampar. Pergi ke belakang, terdapat lampu dengan pencahayaan berbentuk L seakan WR-V serta kemasan yang menyambungkan keduanya di bahagian tengah.

Di dalam, SUV ini dilihat mendapat sistem infotainmen dengan skrin sesentuh 10.25 inci, yang boleh disambung kepada Apple CarPlay dan Android Auto tanpa wayar. Skrin ini terletak di atas corong pendingin hawa dan butang kawalannya, sementara di hadapan pemandu terdapat panel instrumen digital tujuh inci. Pada konsol tengah terdapat beberapa ruang untuk barangan kecil serta cawan.

Kelengkapan lain yang disediakan pada Elevate adalah termasuk telematik Honda Connect, rim 17 inci, bumbung panoramik, kamera undur, LaneWatch, Vehicle Stability Assist, Hill Start Assist, dan pakej Honda Sensing yang termasuk Collision Mitigation Braking System, Lane Keeping Assist System, Auto High Beam, Road Departure Mitigation System, Adaptive Cruise Control dan Lead Car Departure Notification.

Di bawah bonetnya terdapat enjin empat silinder 1.5 liter NA, yang mampu menghasilkan 121 PS (119 hp atau 89 kW) pada 6,600 rpm dan tork 145 Nm pada 4,300 rpm. Enjin DOHC i-VTEC yang boleh digunakan dengan gasohol ini juga digunakan pada model City di sana dan ia dipadankan dengan sama ada transmisi CVT atau manual enam kelajuan untuk menggerakkan dua roda hadapan.

Enjin hibrid juga akan ditawarkan bagi model ini pada masa hadapan, dengan menggunakan tetapan seperti City Hybrid, iaitu gabungan enjin empat silinder 1.5 liter Atkinson-cycle bersama dua motor elektrik dan transmisi e-CVT, untuk memberikan kuasa keseluruhan 126 PS (124 hp atau 93 kW) dan tork 253 Nm.

The post Honda Elevate diperkenalkan di India – SUV segmen B baru dengan enjin 1.5L NA, transmisi CVT atau 6MT appeared first on Paul Tan's Automotive News.

The government intends to install more Automated Awareness Safety System (AWAS) cameras across Malaysia. The speed cameras, previously known as Automated Enforcement System (AES) cameras, are very effective – compliance is over 99%, according to the Malaysian Institute of Road Safety Research (MIROS).

This was revealed by deputy transport minister Datuk Hasbi Habibollah in parliament today, reported by Astro Awani. “This (AWAS cameras) has succeeded in raising the level of perception of being caught for not following traffic regulations, and has reduced the risk of accidents in AWAS enforcement areas,” he said, answering a question by Port Dickson MP Datuk Seri Aminuddin Harun.

“The use of such cameras have allowed enforcement activity to happen 24 hours and 365 days, as well as reduce the dependence on human resource,” he said, adding that the purpose of AWAS cameras is not to trap motorists, bur to ensure that all users follow traffic regulations, especially at ‘black spots’ where accidents happen frequently.

The deputy MoT minister said that at present, there are 45 AWAS cameras in operation, and of that total, only one camera is under maintenance.

The post Gov’t wants to add more AWAS cameras, 99% effective appeared first on Paul Tan's Automotive News.

The Honda Elevate has made its global debut in India as the brand’s re-entry in the country’s SUV market – the CR-V and BR-V were offered previously but have since been dropped. Order books for the Elevate will be opened in July, with pricing set to be announced soon after – it is expected to start from 1.05 million rupees (RM58,518).

If you’re curious about the name, Honda says ‘Elevate’ represents empowerment, liberation, exploration, versatility, aspiration, transformation and evolution. The Elevate will duke it out in India’s highly competitive B-segment SUV market, which includes the likes of the Hyundai Creta, Kia Seltos, Volkswagen Taigun, Skoda Kushaq, Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara and Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder.

In terms of dimensions, the Elevate measures 4,312 mm long, 1,790 mm wide, 1,650 mm tall and has a wheelbase spanning 2,650 mm. That gives it a footprint similar to the Creta and HR-V we have here, although the Honda model beats both when it comes to wheelbase by 40 mm. Other key figures include a ground clearance of 220 mm and 458 litres of boot space.

As for the design, the muscular Elevate sports a large front grille that is flanked by relatively small headlamps that are accompanied by a prominent chrome bar. The CR-V-like face also features fog lamps at the corners of the bumper and a faux skid plate near the lower intake. Moving to the rear, we find L-shaped taillights that are reminiscent of what you’ll find on the WR-V, albeit with trim connecting the clusters, while the lower apron gets silver and black trim.

Inside, the SUV sports a large 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system that supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. This is set on top of the central air vents and climate controls, while beside it is a seven-inch instrument cluster display. Elsewhere, the centre console has quite a few storage spaces, including two cupholders and a small cubby that sandwiches the gear lever, with more space found under the armrest.

Available equipment include Honda Connect telematics with smartwatch support, 17-inch wheels, a sunroof, a reverse camera, LaneWatch, Vehicle Stability Assist, Hill Start Assist, and the Honda Sensing suite, which consists of Collision Mitigation Braking System, Lane Keeping Assist System, Auto High Beam, Road Departure Mitigation System, Adaptive Cruise Control and Lead Car Departure Notification.

Under the bonnet, the Elevate is powered by a 1.5 litre naturally-aspirated four-cylinder engine making 121 PS (119 hp or 89 kW) at 6,600 rpm and 145 Nm of torque at 4,300 rpm. The gasohol-compliant DOHC i-VTEC mill, which is also found in the City, meets India’s Bharat Stage 6 emission regulations and is paired with either a CVT or six-speed manual transmission to drive the front wheels.

A hybrid powertrain will also be offered later that uses the same system found in the City Hybrid. This features a 1.5 litre Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder, two electric motors and an electronic continuous variable transmission (e-CVT) to provide a total system output of 126 PS (124 hp or 93 kW) and 253 Nm.

The post 2023 Honda Elevate debuts in India – new B-segment SUV with 1.5L NA; 6MT or CVT; Honda Sensing suite appeared first on Paul Tan's Automotive News.

JPJ has announced that RAR and JWH are the next number plate series to go up for bidding on its online auction platform, JPJ eBid.

Perlis’ latest running number series is ‘RAR’, and it will be open for tender on June 17. The bidding period on JPJeBid is five days, ending 10pm on June 21. As usual, the results will be out the following day. The whole process is online now, as it has been for some time, and bidders will get the good (or bad) news via email.

Also available soon on JPJ eBid is the Johor series ‘JWH’. The bidding period starts on June 8 and will close at 10pm on June 12. Results will be out the day after the auction closes.

New car coming soon and want a nice number plate for the new ride? Why not DIY and skip the reseller’s markup and runner fees? If you have never bid for a number yourself, check out our step-by-step guide on how to navigate JPJ eBid and the techniques needed to get your preferred number at “retail price”.

RAR might be cute for those whose names end with ‘ra’. Throw in a number that starts with ‘1’ and it’ll be good on a Ferrari, eg. RAR1 360, RAR1 458. Don’t bother with 1355 – it’s mine.

The post JPJ eBid: RAR and JWH number plates up for bidding appeared first on Paul Tan's Automotive News.

Model naked Kawasaki Z900 kini kembali ke dalam pasaran Malaysia dengan diedarkan oleh Edaran Modenas Sdn Bhd, dan ditawarkan dalam dua versi iaitu Z900 (asas) yang berharga RM43,900 dan Z900 SE pada harga RM55,900 (tidak termasuk insurans).

Untuk warna, Z900 dalam keadaan standard datang dalam warna Metallic Spark Black, tetapi pelanggan diberikan pilihan warna Metallic Matte Graphene Steel Gray yang memerlukan bayaran tambahan RM1,000, menjadikan harganya RM44,900. Z900 SE pula cuma datang dalam watu warna istimewa, iaitu Candy Lime Green.

Ciri teknikal kedua-dua versi Z900 yang dipasang di Gurun, Kedah ini kebanyakannya adalah sama, termasuk enjin, yang menggunakan unit empat silinder selari 948 cc bersama padanan kotak gear enam kelajuan untuk menghasilkan kuasa 125 hp pada 9,500 rpm dan tork 98.6 Nm pada 7,700 rpm.

Walaubagaimanapun, Z900 SE ditambah dengan angkup brek hadapan Brembo M4.32 berkembar serta cakera floating 300 mm bagi menggantikan unit Nissin empat pot dan cakera 300 mm biasa Z900 standard. Sistem ABS diberikan standard pada kedua-dua versi Z900 ini.

Kemudiannya, Z900 SE juga mendapat barangan suspensi Ohlins, yang terdiri daripada fork 41 mm boleh laras berwarna emas di hadapan, dan monoshock S46 boleh laras di belakang. Pada versi standard, kedua-dua fork dan monoshock masih boleh dilaras, tetapi bukan unit daripada jenama lain.

Kelengkapan lain yang terdapat pada kedua-dua Z900 ini adalah panel instrumen TFT-LCD yang boleh disambung kepada telefon pintar, sistem kawalan cengkaman, tiga pilihan mod tunggangan, tangki bahan api 17 liter serta semua lampu jenis LED. Berat keseluruhannya adalah 211 kg.

GALERI: Kawasaki Z900 2023

GALERI: Kawasaki Z900 SE 2023

The post Kawasaki Z900 dan Z900 SE kembali ke Malaysia – enjin empat silinder 948 cc, harga dari RM43,900 appeared first on Paul Tan's Automotive News.

Johor police have arrested two individuals who were believed to be posing as police officers and attempting to stop a vehicle on the North-South Expressway (NSE) northbound. This comes after police opened investigations into a viral video of the incident which was posted on Facebook by Freeman Gan WT recently.

In his posting, Gan said he was driving on the NSE near Kulai at about 5.40am when he noticed a Honda City following him at KM27. He then pulled into a rest stop for a breather before continuing his journey, and at KM37, he saw blue lights flashing behind him.

Realising it was the same City from before, Gan’s passenger began recording a video, which showed three men in the Honda City attempting to signal Gan to stop. The individuals had what appeared to be a police high visibility vest along with a beacon light and flashlight at the time.

Not convinced they were the real deal, Gan did not let the City get in front of him and contacted the police, who told him not to stop and to head to the nearest police station if he was still being followed. By KM71, he had lost sight of the “police car” and stopped at a crowded area.

According to a release, the IPD Kulai criminal investigation department arrested two suspects aged 43 and 48 years old in relation to the incident. One of the suspects is a civil servant with no criminal record, the other has a prior drug-related conviction, the police stated, adding that a high visibility vest, a portable beacon light, a flashlight, a headlamp and a City have been confiscated.

Both suspects are being investigated under Section 170 of the Penal Code and if found guilty, can be punished with a maximum of two years imprisonment or a fine or both. Additionally, under Section 135(1) of the Customs Act 1967, they can be fined not less than 10 times the value of the goods or RM100,000, whichever is greater, and not more than 20 times the value of the goods or RM500,000, whichever is greater, or imprisonment of not less than six months or not more than five years, or both.

The post Police arrest two men suspected of posing as cops appeared first on Paul Tan's Automotive News.

Returning to Malaysia under new distributorship is the 2023 Kawasaki Z900 and Z900 SE, priced at RM43,900 and RM55,900, respectively. The base Z900 comes in Metallic Spark Black and the Metallic Matte Graphene Steel Gray variant adds RM1,000, tagging it at RM44,900.

Meanwhile, the up-specced RM55,900 Z900 SE only comes in Candy Lime Green and for comparison, under the previous distributor the first generation 2017 Z900 was priced at RM49,158 while the Z900 SE had a RM50,959 price tag. These four-cylinder naked sports motorcycles are locally assembled in Modenas’ plant in Gurun, Kedah.

The Z900 gets a liquid-cooled, inline-four cylinder mill displacing 948 cc, with 16-valves and DOHC. Power is rated at 125 hp at 9,500 rpm with a peak torque of 98.6 Nm at 7,700 rpm.

Setting the Z900 SE apart from its base model sibling is the fitment of Brembo M4.32 radial-mount monobloc brake callipers with Brembo 300 mm diameter semi-floating discs in front. Meanwhile, the Z900 makes do with axial-mount Nissin four-pot units on twin 300 mm diameter discs while two-channel ABS is standard equipment on both Z900s.

For suspension, the Z900 SE gets 41 mm diameter upside-down forks with gold anodised fork legs, adjustable for rebound while the rear end gets an Ohlins S46 monoshock, with remote preload adjustment and adjustable rebound. The Z900 is fitted with an upside-down fork finished in black with rebound adjustament and a monoshock with rebound and preload adjustment.

New for the 2023 Z900 is a full-colour TFT-LCD instrument panel featuring Bluetooth connectivity to the rider’s smartphone using the Kawasaki Rideology app. Riding conveniences includes traction control and riding modes.

Seat height for the Z900 is set at 805 mm with weight claimed to be 211 kg with 17-litres of fuel in the tank. Stock of the 2023 Kawasaki Z900 and Z900 SE is expected in authorised Modenas Malaysia dealer showrooms by mid-June.

GALLERY: 2023 Kawasaki Z900
GALLERY: 2023 Kawasaki Z900 SE

The post 2023 Kawasaki Z900 and Z900 SE return to Malaysia, priced at RM43,900 and RM55,900, respectively appeared first on Paul Tan's Automotive News.

Jaguar Land Rover has unveiled its new corporate identity as part of a rebranding exercise that will see it be officially known simply as JLR beginning June 1, 2023. This “house of brands” approach was first reported back in April and aims to “remove ambiguity and bring to the fore the unique DNA of each of JLR’s brands,” the company said in a release.

The new JLR identity is also the next step in the carmaker’s Reimagine strategy presented back in 2021, which will see it become a fully electric car company by 2025. With the move, the Range Rover, Discovery and Defender nameplates are now brought to the forefront and placed on the same level as Jaguar.

The three nameplates previously had ‘Land Rover’ as a prefix but given their popularity (most would just say Range Rover Sport instead of Land Rover Range Rover Sport), the company saw it fit to let these nameplates stand on their own. Even so, the Land Rover heritage mark remains integral and will be visible on the company’s vehicles, online platforms and retail sites.

To go along with the reinvention, we also get a new corporate logo you see here. “The creative process behind the new identity focused on elegance, modernity and a forward-thinking essence to exhibit the direction and ambition of the company. The descending j aspires to add elegance, while the lighter weight of the emblem illustrates the step change to refinement and modernity,” the company explained.

The post Jaguar Land Rover rebranded to JLR with new logo appeared first on Paul Tan's Automotive News.

Thank you to everyone who took the time to write and submit an Owner Review of their car to CarBase.my last week.

We certainly enjoyed reading all of them as owners who have experienced their cars over a longer period can certainly point out more details about the car, especially things that will only surface after a few months or years or ownership.

The following are the 10 reviews that won RM50 TnG eWallet Reload PIN for last week:

• Arazi – Proton Saga MC2 Review
• Faiz – Kia Rio UB Review
• Yuvan – Toyota Avanza Review
• Marcus – BMW X3 G01 LCI Review
• ShuTY – Volvo XC40 T5 Review
• Ace – Kia EV6 Review
• Ling – Honda HR-V Review
• Haiqarl – Proton Inspira Review
• Noorul – Proton Ertiga Review
• Magnus – BMW M340i LCI Review

Our team will contact you via Whatsapp at the phone number you provided when you submitted the review to pass you your gift.

We have another 10 x RM50 TnG eWallet Reload PIN to give out this week, so keep those submissions coming! Have a look at the winning reviews for examples of how to write an Owner Review for your car.

To submit an owner review, search for your car on the site, click on it to go to the Overview page and then click Owner Review. Fill in the fields and you’re good to go. Yes, it’s that easy!

The post CarBase.my Owner Review Rewards 2023 – Week 1 appeared first on Paul Tan's Automotive News.

Images of the new Kia Picanto facelift have been leaked on Autospy ahead of an expected global unveiling later this month. This is the second update for the third-generation A-segment hatchback, with the first being presented back in 2020.

The latest facelift is a significant one and appears to draw inspiration from the EV9 electric SUV. This is evident by the vertical headlamps which are linked by a chrome bar, while the lower apron is a lot more expressive with large faux intakes and a good number of body-coloured inserts.

Elsewhere, the design of the alloy wheels mimic those on the EV9, while the rear now sports an LED light bar to connect the redesigned taillights. This aggressive look is seen on a GT-Line example, which will be one of a few available trim levels for the Picanto.

While the exterior underwent a overhaul, the interior remains largely familiar, with notable changes being a digital instrument cluster as well as new graphics for the infotainment system – this was upgraded to an 8-inch unit with the prior facelift.

Further details such as powertrains and safety features were not part of the leak, but the Picanto should carry over the same options as before, possibly with some minor updates. The Picanto was sold in Malaysia in the past but has been absent for a while now. Would you welcome its return if it looked like this?

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According to a report by The Star, a plan to recruit Mat Rempit as part of the motorcycle ambulance team is currently being studied, says Kol (PA) Mike Thein, the chairman of the Melaka Civil Defence Force’s (CDF) associate corporate officers category.

“Training will be provided for these motorcyclists to perform basic cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and life support skills as well as delivery of food to flood victims before the full-fledged team arrives at an emergency scene,” Thein said.

Thein, who has been a CFD volunteer for two decades, added that he would also roll out two-wheeler emergency services in hard-to-reach tourist destinations in the city. The two-wheeler paramedic teams would carry life-saving equipment and first-aid kits, and their vehicle size would allow them to respond to a medical emergency much faster than a car or van in heavy traffic.

“The Mat Rempit would act as a reinforcement for two-wheeler paramedics. I intend to provide an opportunity to the group in turning them into volunteers for a noble cause and proposed this detail in my working paper,” he explained.

The two-wheeler emergency services (a mix of both motorcycles and bicycles) would feature six volunteers in each team, which will be modelled based on the advice from relevant departments. The goal here is to reduce response times in busy stretches and flood-hit areas.

Thein also pointed out that CDF volunteers and even outsiders had been trained in water rescue techniques to increase their preparedness in case of flooding and other natural calamities. The training was first started by Seafarer Explorer in Klebang before incorporating CDF’s modules. “We are also hoping to get assistance from the state government to allocate a site along the beachfront as our water rescue hub and to place our rescue boats,” he said.

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Prolintas has teased the impending opening of the Sungai Besi-Ulu Kelang Elevated Expressway (SUKE) Phase 2. The concessionaire posted up a picture of the SUKE’s Sri Petaling interchange, saying that it will take just 20 minutes from Ulu Kelang to Sri Petaling.

“Your journey will be faster with the opening of the Sri Petaling interchange, SUKE Highway Phase 2, soon! This highway is the best alternative to avoid traffic jams on the MRR2. Experience a smoother and safe journey with SUKE Phase 2, which connects you direct to your destination. This intersection is set to connect you to six other highways heading to the south of KL,” the caption reads.

Phase 1 of the SUKE was opened to traffic in September 2022. The first phase is a 16.6 km stretch spans from the signature big loop Cheras-Kajang interchange to Bukit Antarabangsa. Phase 2 connects Sri Petaling and Kesas (where Endah Parade is) to the Cheras-Kajang interchange, near Plaza Phoenix.

In total, SUKE has 14 interchanges along its 24.4 km main line length (57.7 km if one includes all the interchanges), and these are Sri Petaling, Sungai Besi, Alam Damai, Cheras-Kajang, Cheras-Hartamas, Bukit Teratai, Tasik Tambahan, Permai, Kosas, Pekan Ampang, Ampang Point, Ulu Kelang, Hillview and Bukit Antarabangsa.

The MRR2 alternative is linked to the said ring road, Kesas (at Sri Petaling), KL-Seremban Highway, Sungai Besi Expressway (Besraya), Grand Saga, Ampang-Kuala Lumpur Elevated Highway (AKLEH) and the Duta-Ulu Kelang Expressway (DUKE). The future East Klang Valley Expressway (EKVE) will also be linked.

SUKE is a very scenic highway with a couple of unique features, and one more will be joining the list with the opening of Phase 2. Those around the Cheras area would know of the double-deck highway at Alam Damai that has been erected for some time now – that’s part of SUKE Phase 2.

As for tolls, the SUKE has three toll plazas – Phase 2’s Alam Damai will join the existing Bukit Teratai and Ampang, which collect RM2.30 each. Read all about the SUKE here, with our drone shots.

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Launched in Malaysia in April this year, the second-generation Mercedes-Benz GLC is offered in a sole fully-imported (CBU) variant called the GLC300 4Matic AMG Line that retails for RM429,888 on-the-road without insurance.

At that price, the latest GLC is more expensive when compared to rivals like the BMW X3 and Volvo XC60, both of which do not cross the RM400,000 mark even in their highest trim levels. Is it still worth it, then? That’s what Hafriz Shah attempts to answer in his video review, so tune in to find out what it’s like to drive and live with the GLC.

The new GLC is larger than its predecessor, measuring 4,716 mm long (+60 mm), 1,890 mm wide (unchanged), 1,640 mm tall (-4 mm) and with a wheelbase that now spans 2,888 mm (+15 mm). These revisions result in a slight change to the interior space, but boot space has been increased by 70 litres to 620 litres.

Power comes from an M254 2.0 litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine that serves up 258 PS (255 hp or 190 kW) at 5,800 rpm and 400 Nm of torque from 2,000 to 3,200 rpm. The mill is paired with a 9G-Tronic nine-speed automatic transmission and a 4Matic all-wheel drive system that enables a 0-100 km/h time of 6.2 seconds and a top speed of 240 km/h.

A new addition for the GLC is a 48-volt mild hybrid system that features an integrated starter-generator (ISG) which can provide a boost of 23 PS (23 hp or 17 kW) and 200 Nm, while providing functions such as coasting and more refined engine start-stop. The SUV also gets Agility Control suspension with selective damping and Dynamic Select drive modes as standard.

The AMG Line package is also part of the kit list, along with 20-inch AMG multi-spoke light-alloy wheels, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, an 11.9-inch central touchscreen, the Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system, Thermatic dual-zone climate control, Nappa leather upholstery and autonomous emergency braking.

After watching the video, looking at the gallery photos below and going through our comprehensive launch story, would you pick the GLC over its rivals? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below.

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