For the first time, the Hilux will be offered with both internal combustion (ICE) and fully electric (BEV) powertrains, reflecting Toyota’s multi-pathway approach to sustainable mobility. This strategy ensures that customers around the world can choose the powertrain that best fits their lifestyle and environment. Market rollouts for both versions are expected to begin from the 2026 fiscal year.

Since its introduction in 1968, the Hilux has been a symbol of dependability, trusted by millions across more than 195 countries. Over the decades, it has evolved from a rugged workhorse into a versatile, all-purpose vehicle — one equally at home on farms, construction sites, or family adventures. The new generation builds upon that legacy, positioning the Hilux as what Toyota calls a true “Partner for Life,” combining strength with practicality, and capability with everyday usability.

The latest model has been designed with versatility at its core. Whether tackling rough terrains, navigating city traffic, or handling demanding work conditions, the Hilux continues to deliver. It embodies Toyota’s long-standing philosophy of “Mobility for All” by catering to a broad range of users and lifestyles, reinforcing its reputation as one of the most dependable pickups in the world.

Built in Thailand under Toyota’s Innovative International Multi-purpose Vehicle (IMV) project, the new Hilux is the result of a global collaboration that began in 2004 under the direction of Akio Toyoda. The IMV initiative focused on developing affordable and region-specific vehicles through local production — a principle that remains integral to the new Hilux’s development. Thailand remains at the heart of this operation, supported by engineering and design input from Toyota’s teams in Australia.

The company describes the new Hilux as tougher, smarter, and more refined, but without compromising its core DNA. Every detail — from chassis enhancements to improved suspension and electric power steering — has been tuned to deliver a smoother and more controlled drive. It’s a pickup designed to perform across all environments, balancing the strength expected of a Hilux with the comfort demanded by modern drivers.

The introduction of a fully electric Hilux marks one of the biggest milestones in the model’s history. The BEV variant promises instant torque and near-silent operation, while maintaining the body-on-frame toughness and payload capabilities that define the nameplate. For those who prefer conventional power, the new ICE versions continue to deliver proven reliability and performance. Together, these variants demonstrate Toyota’s commitment to offering sustainable solutions without forcing drivers to compromise.

The new Hilux now comes equipped with the 1GD-FTV 2.8-litre four-cylinder turbodiesel engine. This unit delivers 204 PS between 3,000 and 3,400 rpm and 500Nm of torque from 1,600 to 2,800 rpm. Buyers can choose between a six-speed manual or automatic transmission, with the manual version limited to 420Nm.

Responding to growing global demand, particularly in Europe and the United Kingdom, Toyota has introduced the all-electric version of its iconic pickup — the Hilux Travo-e. This marks the production debut of the fully electric Hilux, a bold step toward Toyota’s goal of achieving carbon neutrality within its commercial vehicle lineup.

Despite the switch to electric power, the Travo-e remains true to the Hilux’s rugged character. It continues to offer serious off-road and work-ready credentials, including 500 mm of wheel articulation, a 700 mm water-wading depth, and 1,600 kg of towing capacity. However, its payload is slightly lower at around 715 kg. To accommodate the rear-mounted motor, Toyota has swapped the traditional solid rear axle for a De Dion suspension setup, enhancing ride comfort and stability.

Under the hood — or rather, under the floor — lies a dual-motor setup, producing 112 PS and 205 Nm at the front and 176 PS and 268 Nm at the rear. Combined, the system generates 196 PS, giving the Travo-e strong all-wheel-drive traction and confident acceleration. Power is supplied by a 59.2 kWh battery, which delivers a 240 km WLTP-rated range (or up to 315 km under the NEDC cycle). While the battery capacity is modest for a one-tonne pickup, it’s protected by Toyota’s Diamond Shield battery cage, designed to withstand impacts from debris or rocks during off-road driving.

Charging options include 125 kW DC fast charging and 10 kW AC charging, accessed through a port positioned on the front fender.

Inside, the Hilux steps into the digital age with the latest connectivity and safety technologies. Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 provides upgraded pre-collision detection and lane-keeping assistance, while a Panoramic View Monitor and Multi-Terrain Monitor give drivers full visibility when manoeuvring in tight or challenging conditions. The cabin is more connected than ever, featuring seamless smartphone integration and updated infotainment software to make daily driving more intuitive.

Toyota says the Hilux has always been shaped by the communities that rely on it, and this new generation continues that tradition. It represents not just a vehicle, but a bond of trust between the brand and its customers — particularly in Thailand, where the Hilux has long been both built and loved.

As the pickup market grows increasingly competitive, Toyota’s decision to blend heritage with innovation ensures that the Hilux remains a benchmark for strength, quality, and versatility. The introduction of electrified options marks a bold new chapter in its history — one that’s set to keep the Hilux at the forefront of global mobility well into the future.

Starting at 259,900 yuan (around RM171,000), the A5L Sportback has attracted considerable consumer interest, with around 30% of initial buyers opting for variants equipped with Huawei’s Qiankun intelligent driving technology. This represents a substantial shift in consumer expectations, with smart features once reserved for electric vehicles now making their way into conventional engine platforms.

Engineered on Audi’s new Premium Platform Combustion (PPC), the A5L Sportback incorporates the fifth-generation EA888 engine, delivering a maximum output of 268hp. It also features Porsche-derived VTG variable turbocharging technology and the MHEV Plus super mild hybrid system. These innovations combine to enable the vehicle to accelerate from 0 to 100km/h in just 5.6 seconds, demonstrating its performance capabilities despite its focus on comfort and intelligence.

What truly sets the A5L Sportback apart is its pairing of traditional combustion performance with next-generation driving intelligence. Unlike most vehicles currently equipped with Huawei’s ADAS, which typically employ a single LiDAR sensor, this model integrates two LiDAR units, enhancing the system’s spatial awareness and responsiveness on the road.

Inside the cabin, Audi continues to prioritise luxury and functionality. The A5L Sportback offers multi-directional electric front seat adjustments, complete with heating, ventilation, and massage functions. A PDLC adjustable panoramic sunroof crowns the vehicle’s interior, adding a layer of refinement and versatility to the driving experience.

This launch reflects the culmination of a five-year collaboration between SAIC Audi and Huawei. Their joint efforts have resulted in a product that blends German automotive engineering with Chinese technological innovation, delivering a unique proposition in a highly competitive segment.

Looking to the future, SAIC Audi has outlined plans to release two to three more combustion vehicle models aimed at mainstream users, indicating that internal combustion technology remains a key focus despite the global shift towards electrification. At the same time, the brand is actively preparing for a stronger presence in the new energy vehicle (NEV) space. The Audi E5 Sportback will be the first electric model under this strategy, forming the foundation of a broader product portfolio tailored to the evolving automotive landscape.

Industry insiders suggest the new car is intended to build upon the legacy of halo models such as the Maserati MC20 and Alfa Romeo’s 33 Stradale. However, in contrast to the shift towards electrification sweeping across Stellantis brands, this model is set to forgo hybridisation entirely in favour of a purist mechanical experience.

Autocar has reported that the engine is expected to be an uprated version of Maserati’s existing twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre Nettuno V6, an already potent powerplant that delivers 621hp and 720Nm of torque in the MC20. In this upcoming model, however, performance figures are likely to surpass those of the MC20-based MCPura, elevating it to the uppermost echelons of Maserati’s combustion-powered offerings.

Davide Danesin, Maserati’s Head of Engineering, has indicated that electrification has been deliberately excluded from the project. He revealed that a manual gearbox is under serious consideration—an unusual move in today’s performance car landscape. While such a transmission may no longer suit mass-produced vehicles, Danesin views it as a compelling feature for a limited edition, one that would celebrate the raw, tactile essence of driving.

Should the project proceed as planned, Maserati is expected to debut the model in 2026 to commemorate the centenary of the Tipo 26, the brand’s first racing car. The Alfa Romeo version, which may follow in 2027, is tipped to pay homage to the historic 6C 1500—marking its 100-year milestone as well.

Though details remain closely guarded, the vehicle is anticipated to command a significantly higher price than the MC20-based MCPura, underscoring its exclusivity and collector appeal. With both brands placing increasing focus on heritage, craftsmanship, and mechanical purity, this model could represent one of the last truly analogue offerings before full electrification becomes the norm.

Mohr highlighted the capabilities of Lamborghini’s latest hybrid powertrain, which debuts in the upcoming Temerario supercar. The new system combines a twin-turbocharged V8 with three electric motors, generating an impressive 908hp and 730Nm of torque. Beyond raw numbers, the drivetrain has been engineered to sustain the visceral driving experience synonymous with the Lamborghini name. Critically, the system is also capable of running on synthetic fuel, ensuring relevance even as emissions regulations tighten worldwide.

While acknowledging that synthetic fuel may not outperform conventional petrol in all respects, Mohr regards it as a vital bridge to keeping combustion technology viable. The new engine has been developed for peak efficiency and performance regardless of whether it runs on fossil or synthetic fuels, providing a degree of futureproofing rare among performance engines.

Performance metrics for the Temerario underscore Lamborghini’s continued focus on driving excitement: the car is expected to accelerate from 0–100km/h in just 2.7 seconds and reach a top speed of 343km/h. However, for Mohr, it is the sensory experience that takes precedence. From the auditory signature to the tactile vibrations, gear changes, and chassis dynamics, every aspect of the powertrain has been tuned for maximum emotional impact. The decision to opt for a high-revving V8 – targeting a 10,000rpm redline – was driven by the desire to stand apart in an increasingly homogenised landscape of downsized, turbocharged engines.

This philosophy has also informed Lamborghini’s slower pace in entering the electric vehicle (EV) arena compared to rivals such as Ferrari. The company’s first EV is not expected until 2029, a delay that reflects the brand’s deliberate focus on emotional appeal and its hesitation to transition before the technology meets its standards.

Mohr stressed that while the shift to electric power is inevitable, combustion engines are far from obsolete. He believes future generations, who are currently growing up with electric mobility as the norm, may develop a renewed appreciation for the sensory richness of combustion engines. In his view, electric solutions still fall short in terms of delivering the kind of visceral thrill that defines a Lamborghini.

Synthetic fuels, he argues, will play a central role in preserving this legacy. Both Lamborghini and Porsche, its sister brand under the Volkswagen Group, have invested heavily in developing synthetic fuel technologies. These efforts are not only aimed at future products but also at protecting the brands’ extensive back catalogues.

Lamborghini CEO Stephan Winkelmann has previously echoed this sentiment. In 2023, he outlined a multi-layered approach to synthetic fuel adoption. The first involves using e-fuels exclusively in racing applications. The second, more far-reaching, is aimed at ensuring the longevity of Lamborghini’s historic fleet. With many of the company’s vehicles still operational decades after their release, ensuring fuel availability beyond the 2035 ban on new combustion cars is viewed as essential. According to Winkelmann, it is critical that Lamborghini’s customers retain the ability to enjoy their vehicles well into the future.

In essence, Lamborghini’s embrace of synthetic fuels represents a strategic hedge against the rapid electrification of the industry, one that preserves its heritage while preparing for a transformed automotive landscape.

Pengerusi Kumpulan Geely Holding, Li Shufu, mengesahkan semula strategi dual-track syarikat automotif terkemuka China itu dalam membangunkan kenderaan enjin pembakaran dalaman (ICE) dan kenderaan elektrik pintar (EV), menolak sepenuhnya sebarang cadangan untuk meninggalkan teknologi konvensional demi elektrifikasi sepenuhnya.

Dalam ucapan dalaman yang disampaikan baru-baru ini kepada warga kerja Geely, Li menegaskan bahawa syarikat akan terus memperuntukkan pelaburan besar kepada pembangunan teknologi ICE dan hibrid, sambil mempercepatkan kemajuan dalam penawaran EV. Beliau menyifatkan pendekatan ini sebagai “berjalan dengan dua kaki,” satu strategi jangka panjang yang mengekalkan keseimbangan antara inovasi mobiliti masa depan dan kecekapan rangkaian kuasa tradisional yang terbukti. “Kami tidak akan mengurangkan pembangunan ICE,” tegas Li. “Permintaan terhadap enjin pembakaran dalaman masih tinggi di banyak pasaran global. Justeru, Geely akan terus memimpin dalam kedua-dua bidang – ICE dan EV.”

Li juga menekankan bahawa kehadiran antarabangsa Geely bukanlah hasil urus niaga semata-mata, tetapi sebahagian daripada strategi menyeluruh untuk menyerap kepakaran global. Pemerolehan syarikat seperti Volvo dan Lotus, serta pelaburan dalam Mercedes-Benz dan Aston Martin, menurut Li, telah memberikan Geely akses kepada teknologi keselamatan, kejuruteraan prestasi, kemewahan dan pengurusan jenama bertaraf dunia. “Kejayaan jangka panjang dalam industri automotif memerlukan pengetahuan mendalam, jaringan global dan identiti jenama yang kukuh,” katanya. “Kerjasama antarabangsa kami adalah asas kepada pertumbuhan dan pembelajaran kami.”

Dalam pada itu, Li turut mengecam strategi penetapan harga yang terlalu agresif yang boleh menyebabkan persaingan dalaman tidak sihat atau “involusi”. Beliau memberi amaran bahawa perlumbaan ke bawah dari segi harga boleh merosakkan nilai jenama dan industri secara keseluruhan.

Sebaliknya, Geely akan terus menumpukan kepada “persaingan dipacu nilai” yang mengutamakan teknologi, kualiti, sokongan selepas jualan, serta pendekatan penjenamaan yang beretika dan mampan. Prinsip ini sejajar dengan mesej Tahun Baru yang pernah disampaikan oleh Li, di mana beliau menentang keras sebarang strategi pasaran yang berasaskan permainan sifar.

Di peringkat dalaman, Geely meneruskan usaha memperkukuh budaya korporat melalui inisiatif “Talent Forest” — satu program pembangunan bakat yang berasaskan meritokrasi. Li menekankan bahawa semua pekerja harus diberi peluang sama rata untuk berjaya, tanpa mengira latar belakang, asalkan mereka menunjukkan potensi dan prestasi cemerlang. “Kami mahu mewujudkan organisasi yang terbuka, inklusif dan kompetitif — di mana bakat berkembang dan diberi penghargaan sewajarnya,” tambah beliau.

Dengan strategi menyeluruh yang menggabungkan inovasi moden, kepakaran tradisional dan etika perniagaan yang mantap, Geely dilihat bersedia untuk kekal sebagai pemain utama industri automotif global dalam jangka panjang — bukan sahaja sebagai pengeluar, tetapi juga sebagai peneraju dalam nilai dan integriti.

Geely Holding Group Chairman Li Shufu has reaffirmed the Chinese automotive giant’s dual-track strategy of developing both traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles and smart electric models, signalling a firm stance against abandoning conventional powertrains in favour of full electrification.

In a recent internal address to employees, Li made clear that Geely will continue to allocate significant resources towards the development of ICE and hybrid technologies while simultaneously advancing its electric vehicle (EV) offerings. He described the company’s long-term approach as “walking on two legs,” underlining the importance of maintaining balance between established propulsion systems and the innovations of future mobility.

Li dismissed suggestions that Geely would scale back its ICE operations. Instead, he stressed that the company would remain invested in refining and leading in traditional powertrains, particularly as global demand for such vehicles persists in many markets. This commitment, he explained, ensures the company’s resilience and flexibility amid the fast-evolving automotive landscape.

Geely’s expansive international presence, built through key acquisitions such as Volvo, Lotus, and strategic stakes in Mercedes-Benz and Aston Martin, was positioned by Li not as a financial pursuit but as a deliberate strategy to absorb world-class expertise. According to Li, these partnerships provide Geely with a solid technical and brand foundation, ranging from Volvo’s safety innovations and Lotus’s aerodynamic expertise to the luxury credentials of Mercedes and the prestige of Aston Martin’s brand management.

He emphasised that success in the automotive industry cannot be achieved without deep-rooted knowledge and a strong global identity. For Li, these collaborations represent not merely business deals, but a crucial part of the company’s growth and learning trajectory.

Li also took a firm stance against aggressive pricing tactics, warning against the destructive nature of “involution”—a term used in Chinese business circles to describe senseless internal competition. Instead, Geely will pursue what he termed “value-driven competition,” placing its faith in technological advancement, product quality, strong after-sales service, and ethical branding. This echoes his previous New Year message in which he firmly opposed zero-sum market strategies.

Internally, Geely continues to push for talent-based meritocracy through its “Talent Forest” initiative. Li highlighted this programme as key to fostering a competitive, inclusive, and open corporate environment. He stated that all employees, regardless of background or connections, should have access to opportunities and the platform to succeed based on their performance and potential.

By staying committed to innovation while honouring traditional expertise and rejecting the race to the bottom on price, Geely is positioning itself as a long-term, value-focused global player in the automotive sector.

The launch of the Venom F5 Evolution marks a pivotal moment in Hennessey’s ongoing mission to redefine the limits of performance and engineering. The Texan manufacturer, known for pushing the boundaries of speed and design, embarked on an intensive development programme following customer demand for enhanced capability. As a result, the F5 Evolution incorporates a comprehensive suite of upgrades designed to refine both on-track performance and grand touring comfort.

At the heart of this next-generation hypercar lies the newly optimised ‘Fury’ engine, a 6.6-litre twin-turbocharged V8 created through a collaboration with high-performance specialists Ilmor Engineering. Building upon the original powerplant, the revised engine benefits from advanced componentry including the world’s largest mirror-image turbochargers (Precision 76/80 Next Gen), Ilmor-designed billet aluminium pistons, extreme-duty aluminium connecting rods, lightweight titanium exhaust valves, high-capacity fuel injectors, and refined billet valve covers. These enhancements collectively contribute to an increase of 214 brake horsepower (bhp) over the original output.

The result is a staggering total of 2,031bhp at 8,000 rpm and 1,959Nm of torque at 5,200 rpm, delivered while using Shell E85 pump fuel. This immense power propels the Venom F5 Evolution from zero to 322km/h in a mere 10.3 seconds, positioning it at the pinnacle of combustion-engine performance.

To ensure that the added power translates to optimal drivability, the F5 Evolution is fitted with a new adaptive suspension system. Controlled via steering-wheel-mounted toggles, the system automatically adjusts parameters such as ride height, roll, pitch, and steering responsiveness to suit five selectable modes: Sport, Road Race, Drag, Wet, and the full-performance F5 Mode. This allows the driver to seamlessly transition from track-focused dynamics to comfortable long-distance cruising.

Aerodynamics have also undergone substantial revision, guided by acclaimed aerodynamicist Dr. Mark Handford, known for his work in Formula One and IndyCar. A reimagined front splitter, dive planes near the front wheels, tyre wake deflectors, and new louvres enhance downforce and manage airflow. The underside of the car was significantly reengineered to optimise high-speed stability. A Gurney lip on the trailing edge of the rear spoiler ensures enhanced traction during both acceleration and deceleration.

Inside, Hennessey’s engineers responded to customer requests for improved comfort during extended drives by introducing a suite of ‘Touring’ options. These include ergonomically refined leather-wrapped carbon seats with increased bolstering, a more refined touring exhaust system, and even a carbon-fibre drinks holder. The new Touring Carbon Seats, while retaining their exposed carbon shell and ‘blast-off’ aerospace-inspired design, offer increased support and comfort for long-distance motoring.

The Evolution upgrade package, which encompasses the enhanced engine, revised suspension, and aerodynamic improvements, is available to both new customers and existing owners of the Venom F5 Coupe, Roadster, and Revolution variants. The package is priced at $285,000 (RM1,257,420), with the optional Touring upgrades offered at an additional cost.

Hennessey’s founder and CEO, John Hennessey, confirmed that nearly 30 examples of the original F5 have already been delivered globally, with this new iteration representing the culmination of feedback and engineering ambition. He stated that customer interest in greater power and versatility played a central role in shaping the Evolution project.

Originally, the Macan Electric, launched last year, was set to fully replace the ICE Macan in 2024. The petrol-powered Macan was withdrawn from sale in the European Union in April 2024 due to cybersecurity compliance issues and is expected to cease production entirely by 2026. However, with EV sales not meeting initial projections, Porsche is now evaluating the feasibility of a new ICE and hybrid SUV model to be sold alongside its electric counterpart.

During Porsche’s annual media conference, company CEO Oliver Blume stated that the upcoming SUV would be distinct from the Macan Electric, featuring a unique design and benefitting from synergies with other models. Although still in the early design phase, initial concepts have reportedly been well received. While Blume did not specify the vehicle’s size or its positioning relative to the Macan Electric and Cayenne, he confirmed that the development would require significant investment but would ultimately provide Porsche with greater flexibility in the market.

Sources suggest the new SUV could be built on the Porsche- and Audi-developed Premium Performance Combustion (PPC) platform, also used by the Audi Q5. This initiative aligns with Porsche’s broader plan to balance its electric ambitions with continued demand for combustion models. Additionally, the company is developing a flagship seven-seater electric SUV, known internally as the K1, which will sit above the Cayenne. Although initially intended to be an electric-only model, Porsche is also considering a combustion-powered version of the K1.

Three Proton Models Dominate YTD Sales

Despite its growing presence in the EV segment, Proton remains committed to its internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, with three models leading their respective segments in Year-To-Date (YTD) sales:

• Proton S70 – The best-selling C-segment sedan in Malaysia, recording 2,340 units sold in 2025. Its mix of performance, spaciousness, connectivity, and value has helped it dominate the segment for two consecutive months.

• Proton X50 – Proton’s B-segment SUV powerhouse continues its dominance, with 1,824 units sold in February and 3,259 units YTD. Having sold nearly 130,000 units since its 2020 launch, the X50 remains a favorite among Malaysian buyers.

• Proton X90 – The flagship D-segment SUV continues its leadership in its category, while the Proton X70 recorded 746 units sold in February.

The Proton Saga remains the best-selling Proton model, achieving 5,024 units sold last month, while the Proton Persona and Proton Iriz registered 1,323 and 283 units, respectively.

Proton Saga CKD Production Begins in Egypt

Proton took a significant step in expanding its international presence with the commencement of CKD (completely knocked down) assembly of the left-hand drive (LHD) Proton Saga at the Ezz Elarab Elsewedy Automotive Factories (ESAF) facility in Egypt.

The USD 50 million facility boasts an annual production capacity of 40,000 vehicles, supporting demand in Egypt and North Africa. The initiative aligns with Egypt’s Vision 2030 and Proton’s long-term goal of achieving 10% of total sales from exports by 2030. The facility also incorporates locally sourced components and has plans for future EV production.

Proton e.MAS 7 Leads EV Sales, Export Shipments Begin

The Proton e.MAS 7, Proton’s first EV, continues to gain traction in the market. Over 4,500 bookings have been received, with buyers eager to take advantage of early bird packages.

• 580 units were delivered in February, pushing total deliveries beyond the 1,000-unit mark.
• 50 units were shipped to Nepal ahead of its official launch.
• Small shipments were also sent to Singapore and Trinidad & Tobago for evaluation.

Roslan Abdullah, CEO of Proton Edar, stated that while uncertainty remains regarding buyer liquidity, the brand is seeing an upward sales trend. Proton remains focused on growing its ICE lineup while aggressively promoting the Proton e.MAS 7 and preparing for new model launches later this year.

With ICE models leading domestic sales and EV exports gaining momentum, Proton is poised for a strong 2025, balancing traditional and electrified mobility solutions for local and international markets.

Pendekatan Realistik untuk Peniaga

Ketua Alfa Romeo Amerika Utara, Chris Feuell, mengakui cabaran yang bakal dihadapi oleh rangkaian peniaga jika portfolio hanya terhad kepada BEV. “Kami mempunyai 110 peniaga di rangkaian AS kami, dan mewajibkan mereka menjual hanya BEV dalam masa beberapa tahun akan menjadi sangat mencabar,” kata Feuell.

Langkah ini mencerminkan usaha untuk melindungi kelangsungan operasi peniaga dan menyediakan pilihan yang lebih luas kepada pengguna. Keputusan ini juga datang di tengah-tengah jualan yang menurun, dengan hanya 8,865 unit terjual di AS pada 2024, penurunan sebanyak 19% berbanding tahun sebelumnya.

Strategi Global: Ketidakpastian dan Fleksibiliti

Pada mulanya, rancangan Alfa Romeo untuk elektrifikasi penuh turut melibatkan wilayah seperti Eropah dan China, tetapi status sasaran 2027 di pasaran ini masih tidak jelas. Bekas Ketua Pegawai Eksekutif, Jean-Philippe Imparato, pernah menyebut bahawa syarikat boleh mengekalkan enjin petrol jika permintaan pengguna berterusan. Kini, di bawah kepimpinan baru Santo Ficili, Alfa Romeo memanfaatkan fleksibiliti tersebut.

Platform STLA Large yang serba boleh akan digunakan untuk model baharu Alfa, membolehkan versi petrol dan elektrik wujud bersama. Ini termasuk penggantian model Giulia dan Stelvio, serta SUV baharu yang dijadualkan dilancarkan pada akhir tahun ini, dengan sedan menyusul pada 2026.

Tindakan Menangani Lebihan Inventori

Di Amerika Syarikat, Alfa Romeo kini menghadapi cabaran lebihan inventori, dengan hampir separuh stok terdiri daripada model 2024. Untuk mengatasinya, syarikat merancang memberikan diskaun dan memperkenalkan tawaran menarik, termasuk:

Pajakan bulanan $399 (RM1,751) untuk SUV Tonale berkuasa petrol.

Alfa juga sedang mempertimbangkan sama ada untuk membawa crossover Junior subkompak (dikenali sebagai Milano di Eropah) ke pasaran AS. Model ini tersedia dengan enjin turbo 1.2 liter hibrid lembut dan sebagai EV tulen, menawarkan peluang diversifikasi baharu.

Masa Depan: Prestasi, Reka Bentuk, dan Warisan

Walaupun menyesuaikan strategi EV, Alfa Romeo tetap berpegang kepada identiti jenama sebagai pengeluar kenderaan berprestasi tinggi dan bergaya. Berikutan pelancaran 33 Stradale, supercar retro yang menjadi model ICE terakhir Alfa, syarikat ini memberi petunjuk bahawa perubahan strategi EV membuka kemungkinan untuk lebih banyak model petrol pada masa depan.

Dengan strategi Multi-Energy, Alfa Romeo berusaha untuk mencapai keseimbangan antara inovasi elektrifikasi dan kepraktisan, sambil terus mengekalkan warisan prestasinya. Langkah ini bukan sahaja mencerminkan fleksibiliti untuk menyesuaikan diri dengan keperluan pasaran yang pelbagai tetapi juga memberi ruang kepada peniaga dan pengguna untuk bersedia menghadapi era baharu automotif.

A Pragmatic Shift for Dealers

According to reports, Chris Feuell, head of Alfa Romeo North America, acknowledged that requiring dealers to sell only battery electric vehicles (BEVs) within a few years would be overly restrictive. “We’ve got 110 dealers in our US network, and it would be very challenging for them to survive with a BEV-only portfolio,” Feuell explained.

The decision comes amidst challenging circumstances for the brand in the US, with sales declining 19% last year to just 8,865 units. This shift reflects a more flexible approach to ensure the sustainability of its dealer network and cater to a broader range of consumer preferences.

Global Strategy Uncertainty

When Alfa Romeo first announced its EV-only strategy, the plan extended to regions like Enlarged Europe and China. Whether the 2027 target remains intact in these markets is unclear. However, former CEO Jean-Philippe Imparato indicated the company could maintain petrol engines longer if consumer demand persists.

Alfa’s new leadership, under Santo Ficili, has embraced this flexibility. Petrol-powered versions of the upcoming Giulia and Stelvio replacements will coexist with electric variants, both based on the versatile STLA Large platform. The new SUV is slated for release later this year, with the sedan to follow in 2026.

Addressing Inventory Challenges

Alfa Romeo also faces an inventory surplus in the US, with roughly half of the cars on dealer lots being 2024 models. To address this, the company plans discounts in Q1 2025, including a $399 (RM1,751) monthly lease offer for the petrol-powered Tonale SUV.

In addition, Alfa is considering whether to introduce the subcompact Junior crossover (sold in Europe as the Milano) to the US market. The model is available overseas with a mild-hybrid 1.2-litre turbo engine and as a pure EV, offering another opportunity to diversify its lineup stateside.

The Future of Performance and Design

Alfa Romeo continues to prioritise its identity as a maker of high-performance and stylish vehicles. Following the launch of the 33 Stradale, a new retro-inspired supercar is expected to debut in 2026. While the 33 Stradale was marketed as Alfa’s final internal combustion engine (ICE) supercar, the recent relaxation of EV goals leaves the door open for future petrol-powered iterations.

By embracing a multi-energy approach, Alfa Romeo aims to strike a balance between innovation and practicality, catering to diverse markets while staying true to its performance heritage.

Walaupun Porsche terus mendorong agenda elektrifikasi, komitmennya terhadap enjin pembakaran dalaman (ICE) masih kukuh. Khabar angin menghidupkan semula Macan berkuasa petrol telah mencetuskan spekulasi, selaras dengan kenyataan terkini Ketua Pegawai Kewangan Porsche, Lutz Meschke, yang mengesahkan bahawa ICE akan kekal relevan lebih lama daripada yang dirancang.

Peluang untuk Macan ICE Kembali

Meschke menyatakan bahawa Porsche sedang meneroka kemungkinan memperkenalkan varian hibrid atau ICE pada model yang awalnya dirancang sebagai elektrik sepenuhnya. “Keputusan ini masih dalam peringkat konseptual, tetapi jelas bahawa enjin pembakaran akan terus memainkan peranan penting,” katanya.

Macan ICE, yang dihentikan di Eropah kerana peraturan keselamatan siber, masih tersedia di pasaran lain seperti Amerika Syarikat. Dengan lebih 500,000 unit terjual sejak pelancarannya pada 2013, Macan petrol adalah antara model terlaris Porsche, menjadikan kembalinya ke Eropah sebagai langkah yang dinanti-nantikan oleh peminat setia.

Penerimaan Awal Macan EV dan Dinamik Pasaran

Pelancaran Macan EV menunjukkan kejayaan awal dengan 18,278 unit terjual pada Q4 2024, mewakili 66% daripada jumlah jualan Macan tahun itu. Prestasi ini menonjolkan daya tarikan SUV elektrik Porsche.

Namun, sumber dalaman Porsche menyatakan “Walaupun penerimaan Macan EV adalah positif, prestasi jangka panjangnya masih belum teruji dalam keadaan pasaran yang tidak menentu.”

Keprihatinan ini berakar pada pengalaman dengan Taycan, sedan elektrik utama Porsche. Penurunan 49% jualan Taycan pada 2024, dengan hanya 20,836 unit terjual, menunjukkan bahawa permintaan EV boleh menjadi tidak stabil, mencerminkan perubahan dalam dinamik pasaran dan tingkah laku pengguna.

Legasi Macan ICE dan Kepuasan Pasaran

Macan ICE, yang telah melalui beberapa peningkatan pada 2019 dan 2021, terus mengekalkan daya tarikan di kalangan peminat ICE. Kemungkinan pengenalan semula di pasaran Eropah menawarkan peluang untuk:

• Memenuhi keperluan pengguna yang belum bersedia sepenuhnya untuk peralihan EV.
• Menghidupkan semula nostalgia terhadap model popular ini.

Strategi Seimbang: ICE, Hibrid, dan EV

Porsche berusaha untuk mengekalkan keseimbangan antara inovasi elektrik dan daya tarikan ICE tradisional:

• Inisiatif Elektrik: Model seperti Macan EV dan Taycan menerajui transformasi elektrifikasi jenama itu.
• Sokongan ICE dan Hibrid: Untuk pasaran yang menghadapi halangan terhadap penggunaan EV, Porsche mempertimbangkan varian ICE dan hibrid untuk mengekalkan fleksibiliti pilihan.

Langkah ini mencerminkan adaptasi Porsche terhadap permintaan global yang pelbagai sambil terus komited terhadap elektrifikasi.

Masa Depan Porsche dan Peranan Macan ICE

Jika pengenalan semula Macan ICE menjadi kenyataan, ia akan menegaskan semula peranannya sebagai pemain utama dalam barisan Porsche. Langkah ini bukan sahaja merapatkan jurang antara teknologi EV dan ICE tetapi juga menyokong strategi Porsche untuk memenuhi permintaan pasaran yang pelbagai.

Kembalinya Macan ICE akan membawa gabungan tradisi, prestasi, dan teknologi moden yang terus menarik minat pengguna di seluruh dunia.