Rapid KL has announced that the LRT, MRT, Monorail and BRT Sunway Line will operate for 24 hours from August 30-31. Also included will be selected bus and Rapid KL On-Demand van routes. Of course, this is to help move people around for Malaysia’s 69th National Day celebrations.
Specifically, the continuous operations is from 6am on August 30 until 11.30 pm on August 31. The public transport operator says that to cope with the expected increase in passengers, train frequency will be increased on a few main routes and adjusted based on demand and the situation at stations. Extra trains will be deployed if needed, based on the monitoring of the number of passengers and crowd size at platforms.
In addition to the above, Rapid KL will provide free shuttle bus services involving 103 buses and two routes. They are MS01 from Putrajaya Sentral to Jalan Tun Abdul Razak, Presint 2 (2pm on Aug 20 to 2pm on Aug 31); and MS02 from PICC to Jalan Tun Hussein, Presint 3 (4am to 2pm on Aug 31). The free bus service is to make it easier for people to get to the event area, reducing the need for cars and helping to ease traffic congestion around Putrajaya.
Rapid KL says that over 5,000 of its frontline workers from various units will be on duty over the two days in shifts, to support service operations, manage crowds and ensure a smooth and safe flow of people. Plan your journey beforehand and ensure that your Touch n Go cards have sufficient credit. Follow the instructions of station staff.
The Leapmotor Cycle & Carriage Johor Bahru 3S (sales, service and spare parts) centre has opened today in Kempas, Johor Bahru, and the new facility is now the sixth Cycle & Carriage outlet for Leapmotor nationwide.
Occupying approximately 3,783 sq m of land with a built-up area of 10,000 square feet, Leapmotor Cycle & Carriage Johor Bahru is a detached facility that combines a showroom and an aftersales workshop on the ground floor, while its operational offices are located on the mezzanine floor.
The showroom houses up to four display vehicles, while including dedicated customer consultation areas and a private vehicle delivery room. For aftersales operations, the workshop facility has four service and repair bays, car wash bays as well as a dedicated detailing centre.
“This expansion into Kempas, Johor Bahru, marks a significant step forward in bringing the exceptional Leapmotor experience down south, to one of the country’s most dynamic and fast-growing regions. We are confident that Johoreans will enjoy a seamless ownership journey that pairs Leapmotor’s innovation with Cycle & Carriage’s renowned customer-first expertise,” said Stellantis ASEAN managing director Isaac Yeo.
“We are excited for the continuous growth of the brand especially in the Southern region and look forward to offering more customers the best service through this exciting development and milestone in our partnership with Stellantis Malaysia,” said Cycle & Carriage Malaysia CEO Adrian Short.
Operating hours for Leapmotor Cycle & Carriage Johor Bahru showroom are 8am to 6pm Mondays to Saturdays, and 11am to 5pm on Sundays and public holidays; aftersales operating hours are 8am to 5pm Mondays to Fridays, 8am to 12pm on Saturdays and closed on Sundays and public holidays.
In July this year, it was reported that NanoMalaysia Berhad (NMB) would begin small-scale production of homegrown graphene-enhanced lithium-ion batteries for use in electric vehicles (EVs). This will be carried out by its subsidiary, Gigafactory Malaysia Sdn Bhd (GMSB), at factory spanning 15,000 square feet in Suria Industrial Park in Sepang.
The company has now provided more details of its EV battery business following a tour of its Sepang facility that took place on the final day of the fourth ASEAN Battery Technology Conference (ABTC) running from August 19-21.
In a FAQ released to us, NMB said GMSB, which was established in 2022, is not merely assembling or rebadging imported batteries. Instead, the graphene-enhanced lithium-ion battery technology, including intellectual property, materials development, cell engineering, product development and manufacturing know-how, is the result of long development pathway that began with the National Graphene Action Plan 2020 (NGAP 2020) launched in 2014.
This is a strategic initiative launched by the government via NMB (an agency under the ministry of science, technology and innovation (MOSTI) that aimed to make Malaysia a global graphene innovation hub.
Next came the NanoMalaysia Energy Storage Technology Initiative (NESTI) launched in 2021 to develop and commercialise advanced energy storage systems. The NESTI programme saw the development of graphene-based lithium-ion pouch cells, water-based aluminium-ion batteries as well as sodium-ion alternatives, with the Hydrogen Electric Vehicle Battery Centre (HEBATT) serving as a dedicated R&D and fabrication hub.
In addition to the technologies mentioned, NMB also has solid-state, metal-organic framework and redox flow batteries in its pipeline. Today though, the past efforts are culminating in production of graphene-enhanced lithium-ion batteries.
As part of this initiative, GMSB is working with Khon Kaen University (KKU) in Thailand, which provides manufacturing support. Another regional partnership is with Indonesia’s National Battery Research Institute (NBRI) that saw the launch of Bateri Nusantara that combines GMSB’s downstream battery technology and manufacturing capabilities with NBRI’s expertise in battery materials.
Starting at a smaller scale, GMSB’s initial production capacity at the Sepang facility is approximately 1 MWh, or about 92,000 battery cells, per year. The company says its initial focus will be on electric two-wheelers (motorcycles) and based on indicative 5 kWh battery pack, its annual output would be enough for approximately 200 electric two-wheeler battery packs. This is part of an initial commercialisation phase that will also see an exploration into portable energy devices.
Given the company’s name, 1 MWh annually is a bit of an irony but the company says this is merely a starting point as part of a RM20 million cumulative investment. With increased customer demand, commercial commitments, strategic partnerships and further investments for improved manufacturing capacity, GWh-scale annual production is the target scale the company has in mind.
Initial production in 2026 is expected to serve primarily domestic demand under a build-to-order model, with overseas shipment likely to commence in 2027. On the matter of demand, GMSB says it has secured an order for 25 kWh of battery capacity from an undisclosed local organisation.
The graphene-enhanced lithium-ion batteries use a nickel manganese cobalt (NMC) chemistry instead of lithium iron phosphate (LFP), with the company explaining that the former “continues to offer advantages in energy density for applications where battery weight, space, range and power performance are important considerations.”
Graphene is incorporated into both electrodes to enhance the performance characteristics of the established NMC chemistry while maintaining commercial manufacturability and scalability. While this technology is the immediate priority for now, the company says it is evaluating other chemistries as well.
Based on internal testing, the graphene-enhanced NMC batteries have managed to exceed 1,000 charge-discharge cycles while retaining over 90% of their original capacity. The company notes it is progressing towards independent third-party testing and verification as part of the next phase of product validation, which will also cover battery safety.
The raw materials are sourced from domestic and international suppliers, with the company looking into making its supply chain more robust as demand builds. A strategic cooperation with nickel-rich Indonesia is being touted along with NMB’s nickel phytomining research in Sabah, local production of graphene and graphite as well as end-of-life battery recycling for a circular economy approach.
On the broader EV ecosystem, NMB is developing local capabilities in EV components, energy storage, charging systems and ICE-to-EV conversion through its Enabling Mobility Electrification for Green Economy (EMERGE) and Rapid Electric Vehicle Innovations Validation Ecosystem (REVIVE) initiatives.
Jardine Cycle & Carriage (JC&C) plans to sell its Cycle & Carriage business in Malaysia and Singapore to Indonesia’s PT Chandra Asri Pacific for S$265 million (RM844 million), reports The Edge Singapore.
These businesses, which include various brand car dealerships, are now held on its books at US$292 million (RM1.2 billion) as of June 30, and contributed some US$16 million (RM65 million) in the most recent first half of fiscal year 2026. Proceeds from the sale will be used to pare down debt, according to the report.
While announcing its half-year earnings on July 30, JC&C said it will change its name to Jardine Matheson Southeast Asia to better reflect its focus as the Hong Kong-based Jardine group’s Southeast Asian unit, and that this deal will let it “crystallise value” from the Cycle & Carriage business, allowing it to focus on its Indonesia and Vietnam core markets and “deliver a positive outcome for shareholders”.
The Chandra Asri Group is an energy, chemicals and infrastructure solutions provider in Southeast Asia, supplying products and services to manufacturing industries in both domestic and international markets.
It recently acquired the Esso-branded retail fuel station network in Singapore, and its shareholders include PT Barito Pacific Tbk, SCG Chemicals Public Company and Thai Oil Public Company.
“We are of the view that Cycle & Carriage will be well-positioned within the Chandra Asri Group’s ecosystem to leverage synergies and collaboration opportunities that can strengthen competitiveness and support future growth,” JC&C said.
“The proposed acquisition of Cycle & Carriage will represent another important milestone in Chandra Asri Group’s transformation into a leading regional energy and chemicals, infrastructure, and mobility solutions provider,” said Chandra Asri president director and CEO Erwin Ciputra.
“Cycle & Carriage has a strong heritage, trusted brands and an experienced team. We look forward to supporting the business for its next phase of growth while continuing to serve customers and partners with the quality and reliability they have come to expect,” he added.
Tan Chong Ekspres Auto Servis (TCEAS) and TNG Digital have collaborated to offer a new customer touchpoint on the Touch ‘n Go eWallet that enables customers to schedule vehicle service appointments and make payments through the app, Tan Chong has announced.
Customers of TCEAS can now use a mini programme on the mobile app for over 50 TCEAS locations nationwide, and this offers a range of vehicle servicing packages that start from RM109 when booked through the app.
To book a vehicle service appointment, the procedure is as follows:
Launch the TNG eWallet app on your mobile device
Enter “Tan Chong” into the search bar at the top of the homepage
Select the Tan Chong Ekspres Auto Servce (TCEAS) mini programme
Select your preferred package
Choose your preferred service centre and appointment date
Complete payment via TNG eWallet
Upon payment verification, the chosen TCEAS centre will make contact to confirm the appointment
Servicing of a variety of vehicle brands are catered for by TCEAS, according to the company, including national makes Proton and Perodua, as well as Nissan, Toyota, Honda, Mitsubishi, Mazda, Subaru, Hyundai, Kia, and more.
“Through this collaboration with TNG Digital, we aim to not only offer a higher level of convenience to our existing customers, but to also reach out to a wider audience on TNG eWallet so that more car owners can experience top-class service, certified technicians with six months warranty for parts and labour from an established nationwide vehicle servicing network,” said TCEAS head of business unit Kay Fock Soon.
Separately, the Touch ‘n Go eWallet has also added an LRP parking feature that enables payment of parking fees through license plate recognition at more than 140 locations. The LPR Parking mini-app is located within the TNG eWallet app.
Alongside the Cyclone RT2S, the Cyclone RT5 is officially gone on sale in Malaysia, priced at RM16,888, excluding road tax, registration and insurance. Distributed by Cyclone Malaysia under MForce Bike Holdings, the RT5 is the larger of the brand’s two newly introduced scooters and is aimed at riders looking for a combination of commuting practicality, long-distance comfort and technology.
For Malaysia, the RT5 is offered in three colour options – Prestige Black, Strong Grey and Alabaster White. Every Cyclone scooter comes with a two-year or 20,000 km warranty against manufacturing defects.
Engine configuration is identical to the RT2S, the RT5 coming with a liquid-cooled, single-cylinder engine. Power for the RT5 is rated at 26 hp at 8,500 rpm and 24.5 Nm of torque at 6,500 rpm, going to the rear wheel via CVT automatic gearbox and belt drive.
Unlike the RT2S with its 12.6-litre fuel tank, the RT5 gets a massive 18-litre unit, giving the rider a much longer travel range between fuel stops. With a dry weight of 190 kg, the RT5 places the rider 780 mm off the ground.
The RT5 also comes with a comprehensive set of riding aids, with traction control, front and rear dash cams, tyre pressure monitoring system, while riding information is displayed on a TFT-LCD screen. An automatically adjustable windshield is standard equipment, as is a motorised centre stand and side mirrors.
New to the RT5 is blind spot detection, while Carbit Ride smartphone connectivity comes with Bluetooth connectivity to the rider’s smartphone. while a rear carrier is ready to install a top box of the rider’s choice. Wheel sizing is 15-inches in front and 14-inches in the rear, wearing 120/70 front and 140/60 rear tyres.
Suspension consists of a telescopic fork up front and twin rear shock absorbers, while braking is handled by front and rear disc brakes with Bosch systems and two-channel ABS. Storage compartments are found under the seat, and on the left and right of the front cowl.
It will be a busy morning in KL this Sunday, August 23, as two running events will be happening in the city centre. They are the Merdeka Half Marathon 2026 and the LLG Fun Run 6.0.
Organised by the youth and sports ministry, Merdeka Half Marathon is the bigger of the two runs. There will be the namesake 21 KM category, 10 KM category, 5 KM fun run and 3 KM family run. Flag off is at Dataran Merdeka, and the times are 4.30 am, 6.15 am and 7.15 am (for both fun run categories) respectively.
The HM route will take runners past Jalan Raja, Jalan Raja Laut, Jalan TAR, Jalan Tun Perak, Jalan Raja Chulan, Jalan Perak, Jalan P Ramlee, Jalan Ampang, Jalan Munshi Abdullah, Jalan Dang Wangi, Jalan Sultan Ismail, Langgak Tunku, Dalaman Tunku, Persiaran Tunku, Jalan Bukit Tunku, Jalan Sultan Salahuddin, Jalan Dato Onn and Bulatan Dato Onn.
Check out the route maps below. Race kit collection for the Merdeka Half Marathon is at Decathlon PJ, today and tomorrow, 10am to 7pm.
Meanwhile, the LLG Fun Run 6.0 event will flag off at Padang Merbok at 7am. This one doesn’t cut across the other side of Route 1 and makes a small loop around the Bank Negara and Taman Tugu area – both events will be kept apart.
As such, there will be road closures across the city centre, so it would be wise to choose a non-KL breakfast spot this Sunday. Runners, good luck.
We’ve waited pretty patiently for this, but the new Neue Klasse BMW iX3 L has finally been launched in China at the ongoing Chengdu Motor Show. The long-wheelbase electric SUV’s belated arrival in the Middle Kingdom also sees the debut of a new specially-developed 30L variant to join the 40L and 50L models.
The solely rear-wheel-drive base model produces 265 PS (195 kW) and 500 Nm of torque, meaning that even it can sprint from zero to 100 km/h in just 6.8 seconds. The big change here is the fitment of a 77 kWh LFP battery in place of the less popular NMC packs of the other models, delivering 630 km of range on China’s admittedly lenient CLTC cycle. Expect over 500 km on the WLTP cycle, which is still pretty good going.
Moving up the ladder, the 40L xDrive is also slightly different from the global iX3 40 in that it offers dual-motor all-wheel drive. It makes 374 PS (275 kW) and 565 Nm, which is 49 PS (36 kW) and 65 Nm more than the 40, getting it to 100 km/h three tenths of a second quicker at 5.6 seconds. The also AWD 50L xDrive, meanwhile, churns out the full 469 PS (345 kW) and 645 Nm, enabling it to complete the century sprint in as little as 4.9 seconds.
With their bigger batteries come more range. The 40L’s 86.9 kWh unit offers 702 km of CLTC range, while the 50L with its 113.4 kWh pack is claimed to travel up to 919 km on a single charge. As a comparison, the regular iX3 40 and 50 have quoted WLTP range figures of 636 km and 805 km respectively; expect a bit less with the longer (and thus, heavier) models.
The iX3 L continues to come as standard with an 800-volt electrical architecture, with DC charging times from 10 to 80% are quoted at 22 minutes for the 30L and 21 minutes for the 40L and 50L, despite the former having a smaller battery. That suggests that the entry-level model charges quite a bit slower than the 40L’s 300 kW or the 50L’s 400 kW.
One big downside is AC charging. Both the 30L and 40L support a measly 7 kW and take 10.75 and 13 hours respectively to be fully charged. Even the 50L is capped at 11 kW and needs 11.25 hours for a recharge. That’s a world away from our recently-launched iX3 50, which comes with the optional 22 kW OBC and breezes through a full charge in 5.5 hours.
Measuring 4,885 mm long, 1,895 mm wide and 1,634 mm tall, the iX3 L is 103 mm longer than the standard iX3, with even more than that (108 mm) going into the 3,005 mm wheelbase. Beyond the longer rear doors, it also gains a concentric L pattern on the rear quarter light windows, as well as a new 22-inch wheel option and regular pull-up door handles instead of pop-out ones to conform to the country’s incoming ban on hidden handles.
Inside, the iX3 L looks a lot like the regular iX3, incorporating the latest Panoramic iDrive display concept. This includes a 17.9-inch parallelogram infotainment display and a 43.3-inch Panoramic Vision customisable projection display that spans from pillar to pillar. The 40L and 50L also get a 3D head-up display as standard.
Here, the LWB model is set apart through thicker seats with longer bases and a built-in front passenger leg rest (50L only), as well as rear seats that can recline up to 121 degrees. Ventilated front seats come as standard and are unique to the Chinese-market car (global markets don’t get them), joining heated front and rear seats and a massaging driver’s seat. The Veganza faux leather colour options are also unique and include Crystal Blue and a full Castanea scheme that envelops even the steering wheel.
Other standard features in China include the M Sport pack, a 13-speaker Harman Kardon sound system, three-zone auto air con and a panoramic glass roof. Also included is highly-autonomous city and highway driving functionality developed in conjunction with Momenta, with a three-year (city) and eight-year (highway) subscription thrown in with the asking price.
Speaking of the price, the iX3 L retails at 269,900 yuan (RM162,300) for the 30L, 299,900 yuan (RM180,400) for the 40L and 339,900 yuan (RM204,400) for the 50L. In China, BMW is rolling out unified national pricing with few options and no haggling.
With the iX3 L finally launched in China, the next phase will surely be to tool the Shenyang plant for right-hand-drive production for exports to certain markets. Those include Malaysia, where the car has already been pencilled in, enabling BMW to take advantage of preferential tax rates on Chinese-built EVs. This should replace the Hungarian-built current model, with the first 50 units of the latter already sold out.
Thanks to lower taxes and a (slightly) lower specification, could we see the Chinese CBU iX3 L dip under the RM300,000 mark?
Tesla Malaysia has opened a new Supercharger site in Ipoh, located at Aeon Kinta City. The site has four Supercharger stalls delivering up to 250 kW, and is available 24 hours a day.
This is a significant one for the network, as Ipoh sits halfway between the Klang Valley and Penang, so a Supercharger here plugs a long-standing gap on the North-South Expressway route for Tesla owners making the northern run, whether it’s a balik kampung drive or a food pilgrimage to the city of white coffee and nasi ayam tauge.
To celebrate the opening, Tesla is offering free Supercharging at the Ipoh site from August 21 to 23. If you’re in or around Ipoh this weekend, that’s free electrons for the taking.
The address is 2 Jalan Teh Lean Swee, 31400 Ipoh, Perak – Aeon Kinta City regulars will know the way. As with most mall sites, you can grab a coffee or a meal while the car charges, though with a 250 kW peak, you may not be waiting long.
To celebrate Malaysia turning 69 this Merdeka, Jetour Malaysia has introduced the new T2 Dark Warrior Limited Edition, which will be limited to just 69 units. Priced at RM167,600, the special edition is RM10,800 more than a regular T2 at RM156,800 – these figures are before on-the-road costs and insurance.
For the premium, the T2 Dark Warrior Limited Edition sports unique visual touches to set it apart on the road. These include an exclusive matte black exterior (the only available colour option) that is joined by red brake callipers along with roof rails as well as a rear Jetour logo and emblem in black.
Included in the asking price is the Dark Warrior package worth RM10,800 that adds to the SUV’s already rugged look by introducing a more robust-looking front grille and guard rail at the front. There’s also the Jetour script in stealthy black on the bonnet, while other accessories include a roof rack, modular side ladder and a side hanging plate.
Mechanically, it’s the same 2.0 litre turbocharged inline-four petrol engine making 245 PS (241 hp or 180 kW) at 5,500 rpm and 375 Nm of torque from 1,750 to 4,000 rpm, with a seven-speed wet dual-clutch automatic transmission and all-wheel drive system getting power to the ground.
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The rest of the kit list is identical to a standard T2 as well, with automatic LED headlamps, a panoramic sunroof, a 10.3-inch digital instrument cluster, seven drive modes, powered and ventilated front seats, dual-zone climate control, ambient lighting, a 15.6-inch infotainment touchscreen, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay support, a 12-speaker Sony sound system and Level 2 ADAS suite.
Like the normal T2, the Dark Warrior Limited Edition comes with five times free service (labour and parts) on top of a seven-year/150,000-km vehicle warranty and 10-year/1,000,000-km powertrain warranty.
Remember this ad? Back in January 2010, Mercedes-Benz released a clip of the then-new SLS AMG barrel-rolling through a tunnel – up the wall, across the ceiling and back down the other side – before a gullwing door swung open to reveal Michael Schumacher, freshly signed to the Mercedes GP F1 team.
Sixteen years on, Dongfeng’s premium EV brand Voyah announced on August 13 that its new Passion S (Zhuiguang S in China) has completed a full 360-degree loop around the inside of a closed test tunnel in Wuhan, and it’s claiming a world first for a production vehicle.
According to the company, the video was shot with a real car, and the car itself was a standard, showroom-spec unit – no stunt modifications, no weight reduction, full battery pack and the complete suite of driver assistance hardware still on board. No CGI either, Voyah insists.
Voyah is also keen to point out that its task was objectively harder than the original, as the SLS AMG was a low-slung, 1.6-tonne supercar, while the Passion S is a large electric SUV measuring over five metres long with a 3,000 mm wheelbase and a 98 kWh battery in its floor.
The Voyah Passion S packs two motors making a combined 475 kW (646 PS) and 765 Nm, good for 0-100 km/h in 4.5 seconds. It sits on an 800-volt silicon carbide platform with 5C fast charging. The chassis features all-aluminium double wishbone front and five-link rear suspension, air springs with adaptive dampers, and four-piston front brakes. There’s also Huawei tech, comprising of Qiankun ADS 5 assisted driving with four lidars, and a HarmonyOS cockpit.
The brand has yet to go on sale in Malaysia, but it has made its first local appearance – Dongfeng Malaysia previewed the Voyah Dream MPV at KLIMS 2026 in June. A series of Passion S video clips was also posted on a brand new @voyah_malaysia account on Instagram, which could mean a launch is imminent.
According to the Malaysian Automotive Association (MAA), 73,615 cars were sold in July (+8% over June and +5% over July 2025), bringing the year-to-date tally to 458,968 units (+3% year-on-year).
Two years after its global reveal in August 2024, the Mercedes-Maybach SL Monogram Series has made its local debut, with Mercedes-Benz Malaysia unveiling the ultra-luxury roadster at the official launch of Mercedes-Benz FashionWeek Kuala Lumpur 2026 earlier this morning.
There’s only a sole SL 680 Monogram guise for the car, which is priced starting from an estimated RM2,250,000, on-the-road, without insurance. With the exterior and exterior being customisable, individualisation will of course bring the price up. As expected, the model is only available through order on an indent basis.
Based on the seventh-generation R232 Mercedes-AMG SL that made its debut in November 2021, the SL 680 is the sportiest model in Maybach’s history. It shares the same 4.0 litre twin-turbo V8 petrol engine with the Mercedes-AMG SL 63, with the M177 putting out 585 PS (577 hp or 430 kW) at 5,500 rpm and 800 Nm of torque from 2,500 rpm in this application,
A nine-speed 9G-Tronic automatic transmission sends power to all four wheels via a fully variable 4Matic+ all-wheel drive system, with a rear-axle steering standard fit. Performance-wise, the SL 680 does the 0-100 km/h sprint in 4.1 seconds on the way to a top whack of 260 km/h. This is slower than the SL 63, which manages the century run in 3.6 seconds and has a higher 315 km/h top speed.
Not surprising, given that the focus here is less on outright performance and more on comfortable cruising. The suspension has been reworked for a plusher ride, with spring rates reduced by 25% at the front and 22% at the rear, the revised units paired with active dampers and semi-active hydraulic roll stabilisation.
Additionally, in a bid to offer silent cabin cruising and linear, vibration-free acceleration, the Maybach’s engine response has been softened and extra sound insulation elements go on, along with softer engine mounts and a noise-optimised exhaust system. In all, an extra 60 kg has been added to the car, resulting in the above performance numbers.
Because it’s a Maybach, luxe is the focal point, and the SL 680 gets dressed in a befitting manner. Two different design concepts are available to buyers, these being Red Ambience and White Ambience. Both are identified by their two-tone paint finish, where obsidian black metallic contrasts with either Manufaktur garnet red metallic or Manufaktur opalite white magno exterior colour options.
Either way, you get the same Maybach-specific elements, which include a dedicated bumper and illuminated radiator grille with engraved Maybach lettering. There’s also a new bonnet, which is equipped with a chrome inlay and carries the signature tri-star alongside an optional pattern featuring Maybach logos. This is done by hand and sees the panel being sanded before the design is printed onto the metal.
Finer details include rose gold accents in the headlamps and windshield frames finished in gold, while the rear gets a model-specific diffuser with a chrome ornamental element and exhaust tips to add elegance to that derriere.
The soft top also gets its own distinct identity, with the black unit adorned with the same pattern of Maybach logos, finished in anthracite. Rounding off the visuals is a signature 21-inch wheel in a five-hole Monoblock design, but customisation offers optional multi-spoke designs.
Inside, the luxe treatment continues, and while the layout presentation is the same as the regular SL, Maybach’s first two-seater gets more of the full leather treatment beyond the usual upholstery, with just about everything that can wear the material being dressed in either Manufaktur Crystal White or Silk Brown Nappa leather with a floral/kaleidoscope quilted design. These include the door panels, centre console and even the areas behind the seat backs.
Also to be found is a Maybach-specific steering wheel as well as stainless steel pedals (with the brake pedal coming with an embossed Maybach logo) and door sills (with Maybach lettering). Familiar bits include a 12.3-inch digital instrument display and a vertically-oriented 11.9-inch central touchscreen display panel featuring bespoke Maybach animation as well as an Airscarf neck heating system.
It and the SL 63 aren’t the most powerful SLs, with the AMG SL 63S E Performance being that – the PHEV has 816 PS (805 hp, or 600 kW) and 1,420 Nm of twist and gets from zero to 100 km/h in just 2.9 seconds. Given that its pricing of RM2.17 mil is in the same ballpark as the Maybach, would you prioritise performance (AMG) or luxury (Maybach) if you’re looking for a top-end SL?
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GALLERY: Mercedes-Maybach SL 680 Monogram Series official photos
Getting its Thailand launch is the 2026 ZXMoto 500RR, priced at 199,900 baht (RM24,696). This price is approximately 100,000 lower than 400 cc multi-cylinder motorcycles sold in the Thailand market.
Power for the ZXMoto 500RR comes from a 470 cc, liquid-cooled, DOHC, 16-valve inline-four with a 12.9:1 compression ratio, fed by Bosch EFI. By the numbers the 500RR produces 84 hp at 13,500 rpm and 46 Nm of torque at 11,500 rpm.
A ram-air intake system is used to boost performance at higher speeds while power is transmitted through a six-speed gearbox with a wet multi-plate slipper clutch, and chain final drive. ZXMoto claims the 500RR can accelerate from 0-100 km/h in 3.4 seconds, with a top speed exceeding 235 km/h.
A six-axis IMU drives the 500RR’s cornering ABS and traction control, while riders can select from four riding modes – Sport, Street, Beginner and Custom – with riding information displayed on a TFT-LCD screen. Front suspension is done with 41 mm diameter upside-down front forks with preload and rebound adjustment and an adjustable monoshock in the rear, while a steering damper is standard equipment.
A single-sided swingarm is fitted, giving the 500RR a premium appearance than is typically seen in the 400-500 cc sports bike segment. Braking for the 500RR uses twin hydraulic 300 mm diameter brake discs in front with four-piston Taisko callipers and a single disc in the back, along with two-channel ABS.
Prasarana is encouraging the OKU community to obtain the Pas Rapid Mesra, which allows for unlimited free travel on Rapid KL trains, buses and on-demand vans in the Klang Valley.
Pas Rapid Mesra is a Prasarana initiative to ensure that public transport remains inclusive and easy to access by all layers of the community, especially OKUs who depend on public transport to fulfil their mobility needs and daily activities.
The free rides complements various OKU-friendly facilities on Prasarana-operated public transport, such as lifts, ramps, disabled-friendly toilets, tactile paving and special areas for wheelchairs in trains.
This week, Prasarana hosted Persatuan OKU Sentral on the recently-opened LRT3 Shah Alam Line. The session gave the opportunity for OKU community representatives to check out and experience for themselves the facilities in the stations and trains. OKU Sentral president Datuk Ras Adiba Radzi and OKU community representatives attended the session.
“Prasarana takes note that there are still users who are getting used to the service and facilities on the Shah Alam Line, including those in the OKU community. We will continue to raise awareness and understanding on the OKU-friendly facilities and assistance provided,” the public transport operator said in a statement.
“At the same time, views and feedback from the OKU community are much appreciated in helping Prasarana identify room for improvement, not just from the physical facilities aspect, but in service delivery, access to information and overall experience.
“Prasarana will continue to strengthen cooperation with OKU organisations and communities to ensure that facilities and services always take into account users with different levels of mobility,” it added.
OKU users who are yet to obtain the Pas Rapid Mesra are encouraged to apply for it to enjoy free rides. Further information on eligibility, required documents and application methods can be found on the MyRapid website. One can also head to the Rapid KL concession counters at Pasar Seni and Conlay stations.
Now in Malaysia is the 2026 Cyclone RT2S priced at RM13,888 excluding road tax, insurance and registration. The quarter-litre scooter made its local debut at the Malaysia Bike Show in May, with the commercial launch held alongside the opening of the Mforce Smartshop KW Keat Wei Motor dealership in Langgar, Alor Setar.
Power comes from a 247 cc, liquid-cooled, DOHC, four-valve single-cylinder engine producing 26 hp at 8,500 rpm and 24.5 Nm at 6,500 rpm. A CVT automatic transmission and belt drive sends power to the rear wheel.
A 12.6-litre fuel tank is fitted for longer-distance riding, while the chassis uses telescopic front forks and twin rear shock absorbers. Braking is handled by 270 mm front and 220 mm rear hydraulic disc brakes, with two-channel ABS fitted as standard equipment.
The RT2S rolls on 14-inch front and 13-inch rear wheels, wearing 110/80 and 140/60 tyres. Seat height is set at 750 mm while dry weight is listed at 179 kg. Standard equipment includes a TFT instrument display, smart key, LED lighting throughout, USB Type-A charging port and a side-stand safety switch.
Riding aids include switchable traction control, tyre pressure monitoring system, front and rear dash cams, adjustable windscreen, a rear carrier with backrest and smartphone connectivity through the Cyclone Store app. The Cyclone RT2S comes in two colour options for Malaysia, Prestige Black and Strong Grey.
Geely has announced an all-new D-segment SUV called the Monjaro EM-i, which will be rolled out to global markets in late August this year. Egypt will be the first country to welcome the model, with European markets, including the United Kingdom, set to get it soon after.
Monjaro is the export name for the Xingyue L, an SUV that has been on sale in China since 2021 and has been updated throughout the years. If you’re curious, the name is inspired by Africa’s highest peak, Mount Kilimanjaro.
The upcoming Monjaro EM-i is not the same car as the one that debuted in 2021. While the latter is based on the Compact Modular Architecture (CMA), the newer (technically second-generation) model is built on the Global Intelligent New Energy Architecture (GEA) Evo platform that is also use by cars like the Galaxy M9, Galaxy Starshine 8 and Galaxy M7.
Here’s a little more backstory: the GEA Evo platform is sometimes referred to as CMA 3.0 and is an update of the GEA. The latter can be found in cars like the Galaxy E5 (aka Proton eMas 7), Xingyuan/EX2 (aka Proton eMas 5), Galaxy Starshine 6 as well as Galaxy A7.
According to Geely’s official release, the new Monjaro will feature its third-generation electronic and electrical architecture (GEEA 3.0) along with its EM-i Super Hybrid tech, which refers to a plug-in hybrid powertrain.
The company also pointed out that the Monjaro EM-i will be its first overseas model to come with the Xingrui Intelligent large language model and Flyme Auto infotainment system. Other firsts for a global Geely model are the Shendun battery safety system and e-AWD intelligent electric all-wheel drive system.
For more information about the new Monjaro EM-i, we need to head over to China where the model will be known as the Xingyue L Plus. Teased just a few days ago on Geely’s official Weibo page, the Xingyue L Plus will be the brand’s new flagship SUV when it debuts, likely soon.
As is always the case, the SUV has already been entered into the country’s ministry of industry and information technology’s (MIIT) website. In a filing, it is revealed that the Xingyue L Plus will be larger than the older, non-Plus mode, measuring in at 4955 mm long (+160 mm), 1,960 mm wide (+65 mm), 1,769 mm tall (+80 mm) and with a wheelbase of 2,900 mm (+55 mm).
The general design is largely familiar, with the front sporting a vertical, multi-slat chrome grille flanked by smoked headlamps with integrated daytime running lights in a dashed-line look top and bottom of the clusters. A full-width light bar continues to feature at the rear, but the taillight clusters are larger than before.
In terms of powertrains, the Xingyue L Plus will be offered with a choice of pure internal combustion or hybrid powertrains. The former listed in the filing is described as a 2.0 litre turbocharged engine with 290 PS (286 hp or 213 kW) for a top speed of 210 km/h. Meanwhile, the hybrid option, presumably being the EM-i system, will have an engine that makes 218 PS (215 hp or 160 kW) and a top speed of 190 km/h – the total system output with the electric motor factored in might be higher.
As revealed previously, the old guard comprised of Jeremy Clarkson, James May and Richard Hammond are succeeded by James Engelsman and Thomas Holland of Throttle House, and trainspotter Francis Bourgeois.
This succeeds ‘One for the Road‘, which was the sole episode of series six that aired on September 13, 2024. Series seven of The Grand Tour will be comprised of six episodes, in which the show’s three new hosts take on adventures in a fashion that has become a signature of the show’s type.
Among these are exotic machinery tested, road trips, and Malaysia is featured in this series as well. Comedy is a common thread throughout, of course. For fans of the previous trio, it bodes well that the new cast has the endorsement of Clarkson. Excited?
Having lived in relative anonymity for over a decade, Hyundai’s premium offshoot Genesis is pulling out all the stops to establish itself as a serious competitor. It has already made its mark in the racing world with its fledgling Magma endurance racing programme and entered the performance EV market with the GV60 Magma.
Now, it’s trying to conquer the other end of the market with a new, ultra-luxurious flagship, the GV90. Previewed by the Neolun Concept in 2024, it’s a very different take on the full-sized SUV and will take on the likes of the Mercedes-Benz GLS, BMW X7 and the new Audi Q9, as well as more rarified models like the Bentley Bentayga and even the Rolls-Royce Cullinan.
To do so, the GV90 will be offered in standard and Neolun (i.e. “new moon”) variants, the latter offering heightened appointments and a veritable party piece that we’ll get to later. Unlike all the aforementioned competitors, however, the Korean upstart is fully electric, which means it’s really a rival for the forthcoming Bentley Torcal.
Road presence is a very important factor in this market, the better for intimidating the proletariat into getting out of your way. Genesis has sought to do that not with a massive look-at-me grille, but with a sleek design and restrained detailing – inspired by Korea’s white porcelain moon jars – that almost seems to emphasise the GV90’s sheer size.
At the front, Genesis’ signature Two-Line light graphic diverges towards the centre to form a triangle in lieu of an open grille, forming the first production application of the Wing Face. The company managed to squeeze the jewel-like Micro Lens Array (MLA) headlights into the slim apertures through a laser engraving process. A large bumper aperture with a three-dimensional, dual-layered G-matrix patterned chrome grille provides a hint of menace.
The rear end, meanwhile, is rather round and almost entirely devoid of additional ornamentation, not even a rear spoiler (although a wiper is thankfully included). Instead, you get flush Two-Line taillights, an engraved Genesis script and tasteful chrome fillets. The subtly accented wheel arches house rollers that measure either 22 or a massive 24 inches.
But it’s at the side where the Neolun distances itself from the rest of the herd. Whereas the standard model comes with conventional doors, this car comes with suicide doors (powered, of course) with integrated B-pillars, making these the first to be individually openable front or rear (no, the Zeekr Mix‘s quad sliding doors don’t count).
To afford the GV90 such airy, unimpeded access to the cabin, Genesis has had to reengineer the extruded and cast aluminium structure to more rigidly lock the doors to the body, as well as incorporating dual high-strength steel beams and a robust roll cage. The latter utilises high-strength steel tubes and structural foam in a frame 1.5 times thicker than a conventional car, all to improve crash safety.
Further aiding entry and egress are dual-motion hinges that push the rear doors slightly rearward before opening them wider. You’ll be able to spot a Neolun through the anodised aluminium B-pillars in place of the usual black flush glazing.
Make no mistake, the GV90 is properly vast. Measuring 5,285 mm long, 2,030 mm wide and 1,815 mm tall, it’s longer than the GLS, the X7 and even the Bentayga, although those cars are fairly long (pun not intended) in the tooth. It is, however, shorter than the Q9 and the Cullinan, although its 3,245 mm wheelbase knocks all but the Roller into a cocked hat.
The generous dimensions provide ample space for up to seven people, and here is where the Neolun completes its transformation – when parked, its front seats can be rotated 180 degrees to face the rear seats (yes, just like that Mix), creating a lounge of sorts.
As you can imagine, the interior is exceedingly plush, with a layered dashboard that allows for interesting colour combinations and hides indirect ambient lighting, while the almost flat door panels seem to provide extra space for occupants. The placement of the seats, centre console and the almost TV-like infotainment touchscreen are said to be inspired by luxury furniture, and buyers can specify wood, stone or even cashmere decor.
Speaking of the touchscreen, it’s a massive 23.6-inch OLED panel that runs on the Hyundai group’s Android Automotive-based Pleos Connect operating system – and that’s when you’re driving. Park up, press a button and it extends by 90 mm to a 24.6-inch display for you to watch all the content you want to your heart’s, well, content. Taking the place of the usual instrument display is a 25-inch head-up display.
The technology on board also includes generative AI-assisted Gleo AI voice control, as well as a 25-speaker Bang & Olufsen Premier 3D surround sound system with tweeters that rise from the dashboard. Unfortunately, it appears that you are paying more for fewer physical controls, with those for the air con and even the vents themselves moving to the screen. However, the centre knob – with a display that doubles as an analogue clock – does allow you to adjust media, temperature and airflow settings.
Elsewhere, every seat features 15-point massage and a pulse vibration feature, and for the ultimate in luxury, the GV90 Neolun is also offered in four-seater Executive Suite trim. This adds semi-aniline leather seats and a tower rear centre console with a built-in fridge and fold-out tables, while a rear partition blocks off noise and intrusion from the boot. There’s also an electrochromic panoramic glass roof that can be frosted in sections.
The GV90 is the first Hyundai group model not to come with a start button, and once the doors close, the (rather odd-looking) steering column-mounted gear selector moves from the 12 o’ clock to the 2 o’ clock position, with the crystal sphere on the centre console also rotating to reveal an integrated controller. The car starts by pressing the brake pedal, just like on a Tesla.
Built not on Hyundai’s e-GMP architecture but on a bespoke Electric Mobility Prime (eMP) platform, the GV90 utilises a relatively modest dual-motor all-wheel-drive powertrain, albeit with the group’s most powerful motor. The one at the front makes 326 PS (240 kW) and 350 Nm of torque, while the rear churns out 340 PS (250 kW) and 450 Nm, resulting in a sum total of 666 PS (490 kW) and 800 Nm.
The GV90 also uses the group’s biggest battery yet, at 123.5 kWh; even so, its sheer size and weight means it only achieves around 500 km of range during internal R&D testing. It also continues to utilise an 800-volt electrical architecture; frustratingly, Hyundai continues to not quote a specific DC fast charging capacity, only saying that at a 350 kW charger, the car can be topped up from 10 to 80% in 22 minutes.
Helping to give the GV90 respectable road manners are electronic limited-slip differentials at the front and rear, matched with multi-chamber air suspension, adaptive dampers and up to five degrees of rear-wheel steering. Large-capacity brakes with four-piston front callipers haul the car down to a stop, while five-millimetre-thick acoustic glass all around, high-expansion soundproofing foam, reinforced insulation and modified sealing cut out external noise.
Safety-wise, the GV90 comes with no less than 12 (!) airbags, including the world’s first roof airbag that deploys in a rollover to prevent occupants from being ejected out the glass roof. There’s also an airbag built into the seat cushions to prevent submarining, while an in-cabin monitoring system recognises each passenger’s seating posture and adjusts the airbag and seat belt deployment to suit. It will even alert you if you’re not seated properly.
So there you have it, the Genesis GV90, a car aimed at providing the ultimate in Korean excess. What do think – has the brand finally made its mark in the luxury space, and does this thing put it on a par with its Anglo-Saxon counterparts? Let us know in the comments.
At the same time, road users must also be vigilant and extend full cooperation by giving way if there are enforcement vehicles or vehicles moving in an emergency state while carrying out official duties, he said.
“When at traffic lights, drivers of government vehicles equipped with such devices must ensure that other road users are in a safe condition first before proceeding with their journey,” he told a press conference yesterday.
Additionally, any road user approaching, obstructing the duties of, or tailgating an escorting enforcement team vehicle operating in emergency mode is committing an offence under Section 186 of the Penal Code for obstructing a public servant in the discharge of their public functions.
