Timothy Prakash

Volvo Car Malaysia has announced an industry-first move in the premium car segment, extending its complimentary Volvo Car Connect Plus data service by another year for eligible owners whose current subscriptions are nearing expiry.Previously known as Digital Services, the Volvo Car Connect Plus package is included with the brand’s latest models equipped with Google built-in. It allows seamless access to a suite of connected features without relying on a tethered smartphone — including media streaming, real-time Google Maps navigation, Google Assistant voice commands, and over-the-air system updates.

BYD is giving its popular Atto 3 a significant update, with the latest version — known as the Yuan Plus in China — set to feature a larger 74.88 kWh Blade battery pack capable of delivering up to 650 km of range under the CLTC cycle. Details of the refreshed model surfaced through the Chinese Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT), hinting at a strong performance and efficiency boost for the electric crossover.The current second-generation Atto 3 on sale in China is available with either a 49.92 kWh or 60.48 kWh Blade battery, offering 430 km and 510 km of range, respectively. The jump to a 74.88 kWh unit marks a major step forward in driving distance, making the new Atto 3 one of the longest-range electric crossovers in its class.

Soomin Lee surged into the lead at the halfway stage of the Moutai Singapore Open after carding an impressive eight-under-par 64 to reach 12-under overall. The Korean ended his round with back-to-back birdies, rekindling memories of his runner-up finish at the same course during the 2011 Asia-Pacific Amateur Championship.Lee, who owns one DP World Tour title and five Korean PGA wins, said his past success in Singapore gives him confidence as he chases a much-needed result to secure his Asian Tour card for next year.A group of 10 players sit two shots behind, including Kevin Yuan, Matthew Cheung, Ian Snyman, Wang Wei-hsuan, John Catlin, Sarit Suwannarut, James Piot, Caleb Surratt, Ollie Schniederjans, and Jeunghun Wang.

Bermaz Motor has officially launched the All-New Mazda BT-50, bringing a new level of refinement, technology, and practicality to Malaysia’s pickup truck segment.The BT-50 embodies Mazda’s KODO: Soul of Motion design philosophy, translating the brand’s sense of movement and elegance into the shape of a pickup. Every surface and contour has been carefully crafted to balance strength and proportion, giving the vehicle a poised and confident appearance.

After years of absence, Italian automaker Alfa Romeo is gearing up for an official comeback in Malaysia. The brand, long admired for its blend of performance, design, and unmistakable Italian flair, is set to re-enter the local market under a new boutique-style business model backed by parent company Stellantis.Stellantis ASEAN Managing Director Isaac Yeo confirmed that Alfa Romeo’s return will take place within the next two years, though not through a conventional mass-market setup. Instead, the brand will operate via a hybrid model system, managed by independent partners rather than directly under Stellantis Malaysia. This approach will allow Alfa Romeo to maintain an exclusive presence while catering to a niche audience of enthusiasts who appreciate the brand’s heritage and craftsmanship.