Tune Motoring

Contrary to most Chinese car brands that have made their way into Malaysia, Chery has maintained a lasting presence in the minds of Malaysians and now, as a reward to their earliest adopters, are offering special trade in program called ‘Chery to Chery’.

Even though the automaker re-entered the scene in 2023 with the Omoda 5 and Tiggo 8 Pro, you can still spot older models from its initial introduction in Malaysia on the streets.

While many companies might choose to distance themselves from their past, Chery Malaysia embraces with this campaign. Essentially, this initiative allows owners of older Chery models, including the Eastar MPV, the relatively lesser-known Chery Maxime, and the QQ city car, to trade them in for their newer and significantly more advanced models.

For those with Chery vehicles from before Chery Malaysia’s era, the company is offering an extra RM3,000 on top of the trade-in value if you opt for a new Omoda 5 or Tiggo 8 Pro.

Chery Malaysia said in a statement: “This initiative aims to enhance the ownership experience for Chery enthusiasts through a simplified trade-in process and exclusive incentives for their brand loyalty.”

The ‘Chery to Chery Trade-in Campaign’ kicks off on February 9, coinciding with the Chinese New Year celebration at Chery showrooms nationwide, and runs until February 24. In addition to test drives of the Omoda 5 and Tiggo 8 Pro SUVs, attendees can enjoy various activities such as Chinese calligraphy, workshops on Chinese paper-cutting, games, and lion dance performances.

Looking ahead, the next offerings from the brand include the fully electric Omoda E5 EV set to launch in March and the Tiggo 7 Pro, positioned between the Omoda 5 and Tiggo 8 Pro in terms of price and positioning, making its debut in Q2.

 

Tesla has further expanded their network of Superchargers in Malaysia with the opening of their newest location, Pavilion Bukit Jalil, totalling six Supercharging stations and six Destination Charging stations nationwide.

At the B1 carpark near Pillar H19 in the shopping mall, Tesla owners have access to six Superchargers for charging their vehicles. Similar to previous installations in Malaysia, Pavilion Bukit Jalil is equipped with V3 Superchargers capable of providing DC fast charging speeds up to 250kW. Pricing for Pavilion Bukit Jalil’s Supercharger bays is set at RM1.50/kWh.

Adjacent to these Superchargers, there are two Destination Charging bays designated for Tesla owners planning longer stays at the mall. Both the Tesla Model 3 and Model Y  support up to 11kW of AC charging when connected to the Wall Connector at these bays.

Like other Supercharger locations, Pavilion Bukit Jalil’s Superchargers are reserved for Tesla vehicles. Non-Tesla Supercharging capability remains inactive in Malaysia, and the Destination Charging bays are exclusively labeled “Tesla Charging Only,” indicating support only for Tesla vehicles.

Since Tesla’s introduction to Malaysia last July, six Tesla Supercharger sites have been established in Peninsular Malaysia, including Pavilion Bukit Jalil, Sunway Pyramid, Pavilion KL, Tesla Service Centre Cyberjaya, Freeport A’Famosa Melaka, and Sunway Bigbox Iskandar Puteri.

With exception of the Tesla Service Centre at their Cyberjaya headquarters, Sunway Pyramid, and Pavilion KL, all locations serve as Destination Charging sites. Additional sites such as Pavilion Damansara Heights and Sunway Velocity Mall, along with Wall Connectors at All Seasons Place Penang, are still awaiting activation despite installation since early December last year.

While access is currently limited to Tesla vehicles, future changes are anticipated. As per the agreement with the Ministry of Investment, Trade, and Industry (MITI), Tesla is mandated to build 50 fast chargers by 2026, with at least 30% accessible to all EVs regardless of brand.

While we’re slowly but surely moving towards digitalisation for our digital vehicle road tax (e-LKM) and driving licence (e-LMM), it seems that they’re not valid once you cross the borders into other countries.

Online renewals might help in cutting down costs and waiting time, but those who still prefer to have something to hold on to may opt to get a renewal slip in the form of a physical document.

However, this particular physical slip as well as the digital Malaysian Driving License (e-LMM) won’t fly in other countries. If you’re planning to get behind the wheel overseas, you need to apply for a physical plastic card as listed in the FAQ sheet recently shared by JPJ.

This physical driving licence plastic card can only be obtained at JPJ counters and you’ll need to bring supporting documents such as flight tickets, offer letters, passports, and/or others.

Do check if the country you’re planning to drive in requires an international driving permit (IDP). If that’s the case, you’ll need to apply for one at the JPJ counter.

Another interesting fact is that if you’re stopped by the authorities (e.g. roadblocks) here in Malaysia, you may present your e-LMM from the MyJPJ app when requested for proof of driving licence.

The physical LLM renewal slip only acts as a supporting document which needs to be presented together with your current physical driving licence card. At roadblocks, you’ll need both (unless you have the e-LMM, then you just need to show it from the MyJPJ app).

Toyota Malaysia concluded an exceptional 2023, achieving its highest-ever sales performance and maintaining its position as the leading non-national automaker for the third consecutive year.

Throughout last year, Toyota delivered a total of 108,107 units (combination of both Toyota and Lexus), marking a significant milestone and capturing approximately 32 percent of the overall non-national market share in Malaysia.

In specific segments, Toyota excelled as the market leader in pickups, delivering 27,447 units of the Toyota HiLux, and dominated the panel van segment with the Toyota HiAce securing 100 percent of the non-national market share with 3,424 registered vehicles.

Although specific model sales figures were not provided, it’s estimated that the remaining 54,703 units were distributed among sedan, hatchback, MPV, and GR Performance models, including popular ones like Vios, Yaris, Camry, Veloz, Innova, as well as the luxury-oriented Alphard, and Vellfire.

Toyota’s SUV offerings also held strong with the combined numbers of the Corolla Cross, Harrier and Fortuner accounting for 22,533, a 19.6 percent non-national market share.

Comparatively, Honda, which maintains a line up of passenger cars exclusively and doesn’t dabble in the commercial vehicle space, sold a very impressive 80,000 units in Malaysia in 2023.

As of January 2024, Toyota is reported to have delivered an additional 6,276 units for both Toyota and Lexus models. UMWT also expanded its presence by inaugurating a new 3S outlet in Nibong Tebal, aimed at improving customer service and accessibility in the region.

Furthermore, Toyota is set to unveil the next phase of its Beyond Zero initiative in the coming weeks. This event underscores Toyota’s unwavering commitment to achieving carbon neutrality by 2050. During the event, UMWT will present its diverse multi-pathway mobility solutions, aligning with Malaysia’s vision for net-zero greenhouse gas emissions.

Datuk Ravindran K., President of UMW Toyota Motor, had this to say: ”Our success is a reflection of our dedication to delivering high-quality vehicles and an unparalleled ownership journey. We appreciate the positive reception from the market and our customers, acknowledging our diverse model range and forward-thinking approaches. As we continue to set new benchmarks, our focus remains on providing meaningful and innovative mobility.”

 

As the Lunar New Year approaches in just a couple of days and motorists geared to hit the road, BHPetrol organised an event today to commemorate the occasion and advocate for safe travels back home.

The event showcased representatives from the Land Transport Department (JPJ) who shared essential safe driving tips with the public and distributed Lunar New Year gift packs to lucky customers.

Azizul Azily, CEO of Boustead Petroleum Marketing Sdn Bhd (BHPetrol), expressed that the event aimed to spread joy and promote road safety awareness, aligned with the Chinese New Year celebrations.

Aligned with this objective, a gathering took place this morning at the BHPetrol petrol station on Jalan Kebun, Klang. Alongside officials from the Land Transport Department (JPJ), they offered guidance on safe driving practices and distributed Lunar New Year gift packs to fortunate patrons at the station.

“With an expected surge in road traffic during the festive season, and numerous individuals embarking on long journeys to reunite with family and friends, it’s imperative to raise awareness of safe driving practices,”

“We believe this effort can provide a positive step in supporting the government’s efforts to deal with road safety issues in Malaysia. May everyone arrive safely at their respective destinations to celebrate the Chinese New Year. be careful on the road, drive carefully and arrive safely,” Azizul added.

For 2024, Porsche has unveiled an enhanced version of its Porsche Taycan, showcasing significant improvements beneath subtle aesthetic adjustments. Though, if you insist, you could term it a facelift.

With over 150,000 units sold since its 2019 debut, the model has been immensely successful for the German automaker, prompting Porsche to maintain understated changes. Expanding upon its already advanced electric car platform, further Taycan development has resulted in notable enhancements in power, efficiency, and performance, including advancements in the chassis.

Noteworthy upgrades include a significantly improved 420-mile range for the Taycan RWD equipped with the Performance Plus battery, while the top-tier Turbo S boasts an impressive 938bhp power output. Porsche aims for these enhancements to fortify the Taycan’s position in the rapidly evolving high-performance EV market.

The vehicle will continue to be offered in its three body styles – saloon, Sport Turismo, and Cross Turismo. The updated versions are set to be available to customers in the spring of this year, starting with European markets.

Additionally, Porsche has installed a new rear electric motor across the lineup, which is 10.4kg lighter than its predecessor and offers up to 107hp more power, depending on the model.

Power increases are evident across all Taycan variants, with the base single-motor RWD Taycan now producing 430hp (26hp more than before) and the dual-motor 4S delivering 590hp (+67hp).

However, the most substantial increases are seen in the Turbo and Turbo S models, which now boast 870hp (+200hp) and a remarkable 940hp (+186hp), respectively. Porsche reports even quicker acceleration across all variants, with the Turbo S leading the pack with a 2.4s sprint from standstill to 100km/h. 

Inside, the most notable updates surround the car’s Porsche Driver Experience control system, comprising a 16.8-inch curved instrument display, a 10.9-inch infotainment touchscreen, an additional 8.4-inch portrait touchscreen below it, and an optional 10.9-inch panel for the front passenger (can you have too many screens?), has been updated with the latest software, initially introduced in the refreshed Cayenne.

Included in this update is a new instrument cluster screen offering a 3D visualisation of the driver assistance systems, akin to features found in Tesla vehicles. Furthermore, there’s a newly configurable battery display showing the current charge status, battery temperature, and charging power. The home screen app icons on the central touchscreen are now movable.

Further modifications are evident on the steering wheel, which now incorporates a track skip button replacing the previous dedicated regenerative-braking button. The rotary drive mode selector is now a standard feature, and with the Sport Chrono package, a new push-to-pass function button is added to the centre.

Notably, the Taycan now offers enhanced integration with Apple CarPlay, allowing users to control radio stations, air conditioning, and ambient lighting without exiting CarPlay with Porsche being the first marque to get onboard with Apple’s next-generation vision for CarPlay.

We’ve yet to hear about the enhanced Taycan’s Malaysian debut, but if the original car’s maiden premiere here is anything to go by, it shouldn’t be too long of a wait.

 

Dinamikjaya Motors Sdn Bhd, the official distributor of Kia in Malaysia, has revealed that the locally assembled (CKD) 2024 Kia Carnival is now open for reservations at all authorized Kia dealerships nationwide.

While not featuring the facelift introduced in Korea last year, the 2024 edition of the self-proclaimed Grand Utility Vehicle has received several enhancements for better quality of life.

The lineup now consists of only three variants, with the 8-seater Mid variant discontinued, while the powertrain option remains the 2.2-litre turbodiesel (199 PS/440 Nm) paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission.

Despite the addition of new features for the 2024 model year, prices for the locally assembled Carnival remain consistent across all three variants:

2.2D 11-seater – RM 198,500
2.2D 8-seater High – RM 245,888
2.2D 7-seater High – RM 259,888

Among the new additions to the 7-seater and 8-seater High variants are the stylish 19-inch black alloy wheels and a Blind-spot View Monitor (BVM), reminiscent of features found in certain Hyundai models. This system, similar to Honda’s LaneWatch, provides a view of both passenger and driver side feeds.

Apart from these updates, the remaining features and equipment remain consistent with the previous Carnival High variants, including heated and ventilated seats, a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and a standard wireless charger in the 7- and 8-seater High variants.

The 7-seater variant retains its middle-row captain seats, known as the Premium Relaxation seats by Kia, with a center walkthrough seat configuration.

The 2024 Kia Carnival is backed by a 5-year/100,000-km manufacturer warranty and complimentary scheduled maintenance for the same duration.

Art of Speed Malaysia (AOS), the largest automotive lifestyle event in Southeast Asia, will be expanding its wings with yet another event called Off The Grid 2024.

What started back in 2022 as a pocket event within the annual Art of Speed Malaysia gathering has evolved into its own standalone event which will take place at at Malaysia Agro Exposition Park, Serdang (MAEPS) from 23-25 February 2024.

Focusing more on outdoor lifestyles like camping, RVs, campervans, outdoor sports, fashion, exotic plants, and more, Off The Grid 2024 is set to highlight all of the major names, brands, and communities under one roof of Hall A at MAEPS Serdang.

A wide selection of major outdoor brands will be showcasing their goods and services such as Montanic Adventure Store, Anbot Store, CampGuru, Eiger Adventure, and many more when it comes to everything and anything related to the outdoors.

Other highlights include Brew Festa – a host of coffee brands, baristas, and enthusiasts showcasing their brewing skills, BBQ Showdown – hosted by MeatXpert Premium Butcher for all-day barbeque, exhibitions, and competitions related to grilled meats, and more.

Once you’re juiced up with coffee and tummies filled with delicious grilled goodness, head over to Hall A where the entire family can participate in several activities such as Makers Jamboree, Pasor Dinda Ladies Market, Surf Skate, Roller Disko, Strider Cup, skimpool, reptile farm, exotic plants nursery, and music performances from Noh Hujan, Andy Flop Poppy, and many more.

For those who are interested, you can buy the entry passes online (CLICK HERE) priced at RM15 for a day pass or RM35 for the entire weekend. For walk-ins, it’s going to be RM20 and RM50 respectively. Kids under 12 years old and OKU pass holders may enter free of charge.

Off The Grid 2024 (OTG 2024) is happening from 23-25 February 2024 at Hall A of Malaysia Agro Exposition Park, Serdang (MAEPS), 10 am to 10 pm. You can also camp out at a couple of prepared grounds in conjunction with the event.

Apart from the Works Ministry announcing free tolls from 8-9 February 2024, there will also be a ban on heavy vehicles from travelling on the road on the same dates as well as from 12-13 February 2024.

Specifically for heavy transport vehicles such as car carriers, tippers, dumpers, cement tankers, and more, these big rigs won’t be allowed on the road through the stated periods above.

Lorries without loads and those carrying containers from the ports, airports, and palm/rubber plantations will have a partial travelling ban from 12 am to 8 am on the same dates.

Only heavy vehicles and cranes that are going to be used for emergencies will be allowed to operate freely for obvious reasons.

As always, there will be a heavier presence from the authorities such as PDRM and JPJ to ensure that everyone on the road adheres to the rules to ensure maximum safety for all.

Make sure that you and your cars are in good condition and of course, double-check if your driver’s license is still valid. If not, the fastest way to renew it is via the MyJPJ app.

Get an RM5 rebate if you renew your driver’s license digitally from not until 31 December 2024. For more information, CLICK HERE.

 

In celebration of the upcoming Chinese New Year on February 10th, 2024, the Malaysian government, through the Works Ministry, has announced a toll-free passage for Class 1 vehicles, encompassing private vehicles, across highways on February 8th and 9th.

The toll exemption spans from the first minute of Thursday, February 8th, to the last minute of Friday, February 9th that encompasses the majority of time when Malaysians are expected to hit the highways on their hometown journeys.

As disclosed by the ministry, this gesture carries a substantial financial commitment of approximately RM42.99 million in lost revenue to highway concessionnaires.

We can only presume cost was also the reason behind the decision to limit the toll-free days to the 2 days preceding the CNY celebrations but not for the days of nor the observed public holiday on Monday, 12th of February.

This waiver extends to all toll booths nationwide for Class 1 vehicles (privately owned), with the exception of those at the country’s frontiers, namely Tol Bangunan Sultan Iskandar (BSI) and Plaza Tol Tanjung Kupang in Johor.

To fully capitalise on this toll-free period, the ministry has encouraged travellers to plan their journeys ahead of time, heed travel time advisories (TTAs) as they are released, ensure ample rest, and maintain sufficient credit balances in their respective Touch ‘n Go cards and/or eWallets, if only as a precaution.