Bernama.com
Business August 15, 2006 14:14 PM
 
Abdullah Launches Two New Car Models


JOHOR BAHARU, Aug 15 (Bernama) -- Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi Tuesday launched two new car models using local technology which could reduce dependence on fossil fuel.

The China-made sport utility vehicle (SUV) of the Trekker and Tourer models are fitted with fuel and water tanks.

Abdullah said he was proud that the cars were developed by local scientists which used a revolutionary fuel technology called hydroxene.

Hydroxene allows the use of water as a supplementary fuel to petrol, giving the car a fuel consumption saving of up to 50 per cent.

"In my view, this event will have an important long-term implication for the domestic automotive industry in increasing the level of value-added activities," he said after launching the revolutionary vehicle at the Johor Baharu Expo, here.

He said efforts by LM Group to incorporate new technology into its vehicles should be seen by other local assemblers and manufacturers as a signal to infuse new ideas into their own car models.

Abdullah said the government had outlined the need to encourage the use and development of sustainable and renewable energy resources.

"As such, it is my wish to see other efforts to develop vehicles that employ alternative energy resources in the long term," he added.

The Prime Minister also welcomed the collaboration between LM Star and Dadi Auto of China, which specialises in the manufacturing of military vehicles.

"I welcome the relationship as China has always been an important trading partner," he said.

Abdullah also said that it was time for local companies to venture overseas as Malaysia was a relatively small market.

-- BERNAMA
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