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Ford has officially named its first electric pickup based on the Universal Electric Vehicle (UEV) platform "Fathom," part of a USD5 billion investment to enhance EV competitiveness. Starting at USD28,350 (approximately RMB206,000), it is only slightly more expensive than the petrol-powered Maverick at USD28,145. Roughly the size of a Maverick, the Fathom uses LFP batteries and aims to make EVs affordable for the masses, dubbed a "Model T moment." The five-seat truck offers more passenger volume than a Toyota RAV4, with a frunk complementing the bed for added cargo flexibility. Features include a large high-resolution touchscreen, bi-directional charging, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay and digital key support. Every Fathom comes with next-generation BlueCruise hardware enabling hands-off driving on designated Blue Zones, integrated with Apple Maps. Pre-orders begin in early 2027.

Mercedes-Benz Malaysia has confirmed the third-generation all-new CLA will launch locally in electric form only, with the CLA 250+ estimated at RM295,888. Dimensions measure 4723/1855/1468mm with a 2790mm wheelbase, 35mm longer, 25mm wider and 29mm taller than the previous generation with a 61mm longer wheelbase. The rear motor produces 272PS/335Nm, completing 0-100 km/h in 6.7 seconds. The 85kWh battery delivers 792km of range (WLTP) at just 12.2kWh/100km. The 800V architecture supports 320kW DC fast charging, adding 325km in just 10 minutes. Interior features a panoramic 10.25-inch digital cluster, 14-inch central screen and passenger display. The MBUX assistant is powered by ChatGPT4o and Google Gemini, enabling multi-turn conversations and emotion recognition. The illuminated front grille features 142 individually-animated LED chrome star badges. Standard features include a panoramic glass roof and Level 2+ semi-autonomous driving assistance.

The long-wheelbase Mercedes-Benz GLE SUV will make its official debut at the Chengdu Auto Show. The exterior mirrors the overseas new GLE model, featuring a large front grille with the three-pointed star emblem, new starlight LED headlights with star badge elements for strong recognition. Dimensions measure 5051/2018/1784mm with a 3,115mm wheelbase. The D-pillar retains the triangular window design with color-matched body surrounds. The rear taillights incorporate star badge elements with a blackened center strip creating a connected lighting effect. Powertrain options include the GLE 350 L with M254 2.0T engine producing 190kW, and the GLE 450 L with M256 3.0T engine producing 280kW, with 20/21-inch wheel options available.

Changan's CS55PLUS Blue Whale Super Hybrid model will officially launch on August 18. The exterior retains the current design with a seamless front grille featuring V-pattern elements and starlight LED trim, five-spoke low-drag wheels with chrome window trim, and connected rear taillights with dual exhaust outlets and roof spoiler. Inside, the cockpit-style cabin features dual connected screens with AI voice assistant, dual navigation apps, 50W wireless charging and scenario customization. Seats come in Nappa leather with three-level heating/ventilation for both front seats and an 8-point massage function for the passenger seat. Rear knee room is 80mm, with 23 storage compartments and 475L trunk space expanding to 1,415L. The Blue Whale Super Hybrid system delivers balanced power and fuel efficiency.

Volkswagen Malaysia has officially priced the Tayron R-Line at RM238,574 on-the-road without insurance, RM48,064 more than the Elegance at RM190,510. With the Volkswagen Assurance Package extending warranty to five years and adding a five-year/75,000-km maintenance package, the R-Line costs RM250,074. The R-Line is powered by a 2.0L turbocharged inline-four petrol engine delivering 265PS and 400Nm, mated to a seven-speed DSG wet dual-clutch transmission with 4Motion all-wheel drive, completing 0-100 km/h in 6.1 seconds at 8.5L/100km fuel consumption. In comparison, the Elegance uses a 1.5L turbo with 48V mild hybrid producing 150PS/250Nm, front-wheel drive, 9.6 seconds 0-100 km/h and 6.1L/100km. The R-Line rides on 20-inch black alloy wheels with IQ.Light matrix LED headlights and 3D LED taillights with dynamic turn signals. Inside, blue-stitched ergoActive Plus seats offer ventilation, heating, massage and 12-way power adjustment.

Wuling Motors is launching its second product in Malaysia – the Porta EV electric commercial van, now open for booking. The 300km version is priced at an estimated RM100,000 and the 400km version at RM106,000, with first deliveries expected from September. Measuring 5010/1800/1975mm with a 3050mm wheelbase, it features a two-seat front cabin and 6.5 cubic meters of cargo space. Standard features include LED headlights, 8-inch central display and rearview camera. The rear-axle motor produces 102PS/180Nm with a top speed of 115 km/h, powered by a 41.9kWh battery (300km) or 56.2kWh (400km), with fast charging from 30-80% taking just 15 and 20 minutes respectively. Suspension uses front MacPherson and rear leaf spring setup. Payload is 1,165 kg for the 300km version and 1,105 kg for the 400km version. The agent offers a 5-year/120,000km vehicle warranty, 5-year/200,000km motor and battery component warranty, and 6-year/300,000km battery warranty. First owners receive a free 6.6kW AC charger and 3 years of free maintenance.