WapCar News

Car companies and buyers of locally assembled (CKD) cars in Malaysia can breathe a sigh of relief as the Ministry of Finance (MoF) has agreed to delay the implementation of a revised Open Market Value (OMV) calculation method used to determine the excise duty payable. This means the feared price hike for CKD cars, which in the context of Malaysian taxation also includes semi-knocked down (SKD) cars, will be postponed until 1 January 2026. However, this is only a temporary respite, as the written

Hans

Dec 21, 2024

Following its debut at the recent KL International Motorshow (KLIMS) 2024 show, UMW Toyota Motor has now confirmed pricing for the (XV80) 2024 Toyota Camry entry-level 2.5V variant. Taking its place alongside the already launched Camry 2.5 HEV, both variants are priced as follows: Toyota Camry 2.5V: RM 221,800 Toyota Camry 2.5 HEV: RM 248,800 Listed prices are OTR (Peninsula Malaysia) without insurance The new XV80 Camry 2.5V pricing reflects a slight increase over the outgoing XV70, which was l

Arvind

Dec 20, 2024

Toyota has introduced a new powertrain option for the Japanese market Toyota Alphard and Vellfire, with sales set to begin on 31 January 2025. The 2.5-litre PHEV will join the existing powertrain lineup, which includes the 2.4-litre turbocharged T24A-FTS, the 2.5-litre hybrid (HEV, A25A-FXS), and the regular non-electrified 2.5-litre naturally aspirated engine (2AR-FE). The PHEV variant uses the same 2.5-litre naturally aspirated Atkinson cycle 4-cylinder engine as the regular HEV model but adds

Hans

Dec 20, 2024

The Tesla Model Y has been the benchmark in the RM 200k battery electric vehicle (BEV) segment. However, with increasing competition from brands like BYD, the playing field is shifting. Enter the BYD Sealion 7 Performance, priced at RM 199,800. Essentially an SUV adaptation of the BYD Seal, the Sealion 7 goes head-to-head with the Tesla Model Y. Let’s dive into the details to see how it stacks up. Overview: BYD Sealion 7 Performance Price RM 199,800 Powertrain Dual-motor AWD Battery capacity 82.

Shaun

Dec 20, 2024

Taiwan’s Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., better known as Foxconn, is in talks with Renault to purchase the latter’s controlling stake in Nissan, reports Taiwan’s Central News Agency (CNA). Renault owns 35.7% of Nissan; 17% is owned directly by Renault, while the remaining 18.7% is held via a French trust. According to CNA, Foxconn had initially approached Nissan directly but was rebuffed, prompting the Japanese automaker to accelerate talks with Honda. Separately, Japan’s business publication Di

Hans

Dec 20, 2024

China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) recently released information on the facelift of the 2025 Xpeng G6 in its latest publicly available catalogue. Three variants were mentioned in the document, all powered by a single rear-mounted (RWD) motor with a peak output of 296 PS. That output remains unchanged from the outgoing pre-facelift but the documents also listed new battery packs would be offered in the facelift. Replacing the existing ternary lithium battery packs woul

CY Foong

Dec 20, 2024

Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM) and Fujifilm Malaysia have announced the Volkswagen Shutter Stories photography contest, open to Malaysians and residents aged 18 and above. Running until 5-January 2025, participants are invited to submit photos showcasing five Volkswagen themes: VW Love, VW Adventure, VW Motion, VW People, and VW Colours & Life. At least two entries must feature a Volkswagen model. The Grand Prize winner will receive a one-year retainer as Volkswagen Malaysia’s officia

Sanjay

Dec 20, 2024

Bank Negara is considering abolishing the Rule of 78 method for calculating flat-rate financing, such as that used in hire purchases. On 16 December, Bank Negara invited public feedback on its proposed reform, albeit limited only to personal financing. Among the reforms mentioned in the proposal document is the “abolishment of personal financing (PF) where interest/profit charges are computed using the flat rate with the Rule of 78 method.” The Rule of 78 is a method used to calculate interest (

Hans

Dec 20, 2024

The Chery Omoda E5 is the first battery EV (BEV) model in Malaysia to receive SIRIM certification for the safety of its high-voltage battery. This is in addition to complying with the international United Nations Regulation No. 100 (UNECE R100) requirements for safety standards of high-voltage batteries in four-wheeler vehicles. “Being the first automotive brand in Malaysia to receive the EV battery certification is an incredible honor and a significant milestone for us at Chery Malaysia. We are

Hans

Dec 19, 2024

Chery Malaysia has confirmed that it will expand its range of electrified vehicles beyond just battery EVs (BEVs) to include plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) next year. This announcement was made in passing as part of the company’s statement regarding the Omoda E5 receiving its SIRIM certification for its high-voltage battery—the first for a BEV in Malaysia. While the company did not specify which PHEV model will launch in 2025, it has previously made multiple previews of the Chery Tiggo 8 Pro e+. The Ch

Hans

Dec 19, 2024

Always the bridesmaid, never the bride, the B17 second-generation Nissan Sylphy is one of those used cars that are vastly underrated and easily overlooked when hunting for a good bargain. Perhaps due to its subdued styling, it doesn't garner as much interest as the more mainstream Honda and Toyota models. However, where it lacks excitement, it makes up for it with sound reliability, comfort, and far more space and practicality than its peers. With prices now starting at just RM 25k, one could be

Arvind

Dec 19, 2024

After launching a slew of SUVs, Chery Fulwin, the Anhui carmaker’s sub-brand that specializes in plug-in hybrid vehicles (PHEV) in the Chinese domestic market launched its first sedan model. The Chery Fulwin A8L bears more than one similarity with the Audi namesake but is significantly smaller than Ingolstadt’s flagship sedan. Five variants are being offered, priced between CNY 109,900 to CNY 149,900 (~RM 68k-92.5k) across two engine choices. The two base variants are powered by a naturally aspi

CY Foong

Dec 19, 2024

The Volvo S60 is a compelling alternative to mainstream German models from BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and Audi. It is renowned for its sleek design, impressive plug-in hybrid performance, exceptional comfort, and, of course, top-tier safety features. Therefore, if you're looking for a formidable executive sedan for the family, the Volvo S60 could be just it. With used prices starting at around RM160k today, let's take a closer look. Overview The third-generation Volvo S60 was launched in Malaysia in 20

Arvind

Dec 19, 2024

The 11th-generation Honda Civic (FE) is ending 2024 on an amazingly high note; winning multiple awards tends to have that effect. Add one more to the list as it's just been crowned Motor1's Best Car of 2024 gong as well. Described as having "genuinely industry-leading interior fit and finish with zero rattles or shakes, while physical controls and premium materials help the Civic Hybrid look and feel a class above its station," Motor 1's latest award follows the model being crowned The Drive's C

Sanjay

Dec 19, 2024

Taiwan’s Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., better known as Foxconn, has approached Nissan with an offer to acquire a controlling stake in the troubled Yokohama-based carmaker. According to Japanese business publication Diamond Online, Foxconn’s approach is being made independently of Honda, which is also in talks with Nissan regarding a potential merger. The publication further reported that negotiations with Honda were 'encouraged' by Nissan's main bank, Mizuho Bank, and Japan’s Ministry of Econo

Hans

Dec 19, 2024

Industry analysts love to harp on the virtues of battery electric vehicles (BEVs) and predicted that they would conquer the automotive market. That results in legislation proposing goals that are highly favourable towards BEVs, with mixed results from both new and established brands. Still, the accelerated growth of the BEV industry is not going to completely wipe out internal combustion engines (ICE) so soon. As BEV sales began to slow, carmakers which once pledged to have a fully or mostly ele

CY Foong

Dec 19, 2024

China is intensifying its diplomatic efforts in the battery-electric vehicle (BEV) sector, according to a report by the South China Morning Post (SCMP). The Chinese government is recruiting science and technology counsellors for its embassies abroad, focusing on strengthening its influence in BEV-related diplomacy. This comes as the world’s largest BEV market faces growing accusations of overcapacity and trade barriers imposed by the US, Canada, and Europe. China, being the world’s largest BEV m

Shaun

Dec 19, 2024

Fuel price movements in Malaysia from 19- to 24-December 2024 are as below: Fuel Price Update 19- to 24-December 2024 RON 95 RM 2.05 RON 97 RM 3.22 RON 100 RM 5.00 Shell V-Power RM 6.30 Diesel EURO 5 B10 RM 2.95 Diesel EURO 5 B7 RM 3.15 Follow fuel price live updates: Petrol Price Malaysia

Sanjay

Dec 18, 2024

Honda has revealed the S+ Shift system, which is set to be first featured in the all-new Honda Prelude coming in 2025, aimed to elevate the e:HEV hybrid system’s appeal The concept of an “S+” button may evoke memories of the Honda CR-Z facelift introduced in 2013. In that hybrid sports coupe, the S+ button offered an extra burst of electric assistance for maximum acceleration - ideal for short spurts of adrenaline. But with the S+ Shift, Honda flips the script. This isn’t just about going fast;

Shaun

Dec 18, 2024

Honda will introduce two new-generation hybrid powertrains next year, along with a hybrid-optimized platform for D-segment cars. This move is an intermediary step before Honda transitions to becoming a 100% battery EV (BEV) and hydrogen fuel cell EV (FCEV) manufacturer by 2040. Before reaching 2040, Honda anticipates a sharp increase in demand for its e:HEV hybrids, with global annual sales projected to reach 1.3 million units by 2030. By 2027, the cost of Honda hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) i

Hans

Dec 18, 2024

It looks like Nissan, which is facing some troubling times, might have a rescuer in the form of rival Honda. According to reports cited by Japan's Nikkei, both Japanese automotive giants are reportedly entering a discussion of a merger. The business daily reported that Japan’s No. 2 and No.3 automakers are looking to operate under a single holding company and will soon sign a memorandum of understanding (MoU) for the new entity. This new holding company will also consider bringing in Mitsubishi

CY Foong

Dec 18, 2024

Proton has confirmed the launch of the China-made Proton e.Mas 7 in Singapore. Vincar, a grey importer that has since expanded into the new car business, has been appointed as the authorized distributor for Proton’s electric-only e.Mas brand. Vincar is also the distributor of GAC’s Aion cars. According to a report by Singapore’s Business Times, Vincar plans to launch the e.Mas 7 next year and will set up a showroom in the Leng Kee area, the island state’s hub for new car showrooms. This confirms

Hans

Dec 17, 2024

While battery electric vehicles (BEVs) would turn out to be the first model introduced by the Proton e.Mas sub-brand, plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) are not completely ruled out. P1's parent company, Geely, has a model that could serve as the second model after the newly launched e.Mas 7. Following a preview last month, Geely officially launched the Geely Galaxy Starship 7 PHEV in China with 5 variants priced between CNY 99,800 to CNY 132,800 (~RM 61k-81k). From a design standpoint, the Starship 7 shar

CY Foong

Dec 17, 2024

Indonesia’s new car market, the largest in Southeast Asia, is facing its toughest challenge in more than a decade, with total new motor vehicle (four-wheelers and above) sales expected to go down to just 850,000 units this year. Except for the Covid-19 pandemic-hit 2021, Indonesia’s new vehicle sales have not dropped below 1 million units since 2011, when 894,164 units were sold. High interest rates, deflation, weak consumer confidence, stagnating household income, and an increase in new car pri

Hans

Dec 17, 2024

Following Thailand's example, the Indonesian government announced on Monday (16 December) that it will extend a further 3% discount on hybrid electric vehicles sold in the country in 2025. Indonesia’s Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs, Airlangga Hartarto, revealed in a press conference that it will introduce a 3% Luxury Goods Sales Tax cut for hybrid vehicles from 1 January 2025. Currently, the maximum tax rate on hybrid vehicles which includes both full hybrids and mild hybrids is betw

CY Foong

Dec 17, 2024

The Proton e.Mas 7 was launched yesterday with a starting price of RM 109,800 for the entry Prime variant and RM 123,800 for the Premium variant. However, the first 3,000 customers will enjoy a lower ‘introductory price’ of RM 105,800 and RM 119,800 respectively. The first 3,000 customers figure is telling because, in Malaysia, only one battery EV (BEV) model has crossed the 3,000-unit annual sales milestone: the BYD Atto 3. Last year, distributor Sime Darby Beyond Auto sold 3,157 units of the B

Hans

Dec 17, 2024

DRB-HICOM Berhad and Zhejiang Geely Holding Group Co. Ltd. have signed two Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) to accelerate the transformation of the Automotive Hi-Tech Valley (AHTV) in Tanjong Malim, Perak, into a global hub for electrified and Energy Efficient Vehicles (EEV). Collaboration with MIDA The first MOU, signed with the Malaysian Investment Development Authority (MIDA), focuses on promoting investments and fostering the growth of Malaysia’s automotive industry. The partnership aims

Sanjay

Dec 17, 2024

The Proton e.MAS 7 BEV officially launched today, has achieved the full 5-star safety rating from ASEAN NCAP. With a total score of 92.57 points, it ranks among the highest-performing vehicles under the 2021–2025 ASEAN NCAP assessment protocol. The Proton e.MAS 7 scored well in all four major categories of the ASEAN NCAP assessment: 1) Adult Occupant Protection (AOP): The e.MAS 7 scored an impressive 39.00 out of 40.00 points in the AOP category. Featuring a robust structure and 6 airbags as sta

Arvind

Dec 16, 2024

The Proton e.Mas 7 battery electric vehicle (BEV) has finally launched, with prices starting from RM 109k before promotions. But Malaysia won't be its only market, as it will also be sold in neighbouring countries. Sighted in the ASEAN NCAP results dossier, it is mentioned that the e.Mas 7 will be sold in Brunei and Singapore. While that's technically still export markets, it's certainly a small piece of the ASEAN pie, considering the numbers there won't be enough to score Proton the 'Number 3 i

Sanjay

Dec 16, 2024

Proton has officially launched its first battery electric vehicle (BEV), the e.Mas 7, which comes fully-imported (CBU) from China, priced at RM 105,800 for the Prime variant and RM 119,800 for the Premium variant. These are introductory prices (OTR without insurance) for the first 3000 customers. Post-special-launch prices are RM 109,800 for the Prime variant, and RM 123,800 for the Premium variant. The e.Mas 7 is the debut model of Proton’s electrified-only sub-brand, e.Mas, which is managed by

Shaun

Dec 16, 2024