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Meet the Defender 110—a next-generation drive blazing a new path

Vogue Singapore

a day ago

Automotive
Vogue Singapore

Meet the Defender 110—a next-generation drive blazing a new path

What does it mean to challenge the status quo? For Jasmine Sokko, it begins with sound. As one of Singapore's most prominent singer-songwriters, her approach to sound is disruptive, layered and unmistakably her own. Sokko has no shortage of trailblazing moments in her career: in 2019, she became the first Singaporean to win an MTV Europe Music Award. In 2021, she was featured on a Times Square billboard as part of Spotify's global 'Equal' campaign. Whether she's on stage before a roaring crowd as she opens for Coldplay, or in the focused solitude of her studio mastering a track, Sokko has always been known for her distinctly boundary-pushing identity. Hence, when the Defender 25MY Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) became part of her journey, it wasn't just a drive—it was a continuation of her creative philosophy. 'I don't believe in staying in one lane. I would rather move between worlds,' Sokko says. 'Defender is a vessel for shapeshifters. It doesn't compromise between extremes—it merges them.' 'The Defender is a vessel for shapeshifters. It doesn't compromise between extremes—it merges them.' Since its inception in 1948, Defender has stood as a symbol of purpose and capability. Originally designed to navigate the rugged terrains of the British countryside, it has evolved into a global icon over the decades, known for its ability to traverse the most challenging environments while maintaining a sense of understated elegance and unspoken luxury. Built for a new kind of adventure, the Defender P300e embodies that same boldness. Equipped with plug-in hybrid technology, it is the most capable electrified Defender to date. With a combined output of 300PS from its 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine and 105kW electric motor, the PHEV system delivers smooth torque and responsiveness with an all-electric range of up to 41.9km—all wrapped within its iconic geometric exterior. Singapore singer-songwriter Jasmine Sokko and the Defender 110. Benjamin Siow Defender's brand ethos, 'Embrace the Impossible', is more than a mere tagline—it's a commitment to redefining what's achievable in the motoring universe. This philosophy has attracted a diverse clientele, from fearless adventurers to urban dwellers seeking a vehicle that combines unbeatable functionality with sophistication. Known for her distinctive soundscapes, Sokko's approach to music has always been ahead of its time—mirroring Defender's ethos. Her artistry, much like Defender, is about embracing contradictions: melding the organic with the synthetic, the traditional with the avant-garde. Just as she challenges conventional norms by creating music that is both innovative and emotionally resonant, Defender's technically superior engineering—powering a 0 to 100km/h sprint in just 7.6 seconds—never takes a backseat to its sheer driving thrill. 'My favourite part about Defender is its hybrid mode. It flips between calm and chaos—fluid, powerful and unexpected,' she shares. With regenerative braking, rapid-charging options and electronic air suspension as standard, the Defender P300e invites you to go further. It's engineered to defy limits: full low-range off-road capability in electric mode; a charging time as quick as 30 minutes to 80% with a rapid charger, all while producing just 72.54g/km of CO₂—without compromising the rugged capability that defines Defender. Inside, a slate of customisable features have been designed to adapt to whoever's behind the wheel—offering not just comfort, but control. An intuitive digital interface lets you personalise everything from terrain settings to cabin lighting, while three-zone climate control provides separate temperature customisation for the driver, front passenger and rear passengers. Even the air suspension can be adjusted on the fly, acclimating to whatever the road ahead demands. But beyond the spec sheet, what stands out is the sense of quiet luxury emanating from clean lines and tactile materials, elevating the experience. It's a space built for those who move through the world with purpose—something that resonates with Sokko deeply. As the Defender PHEV continues to evolve, integrating cutting-edge technology with its storied legacy, it finds a kindred spirit in Jasmine Sokko—an artist who never drives the expected route. Together, they offer a vision of progress that is deliberate, self-assured and unafraid to challenge the status quo. Director Bharathi Priya Photographer Ben Siow and Hadi Liang Producer Xinmin Ng In-house producer David Bay Director of photography Shah Nasir Camera assistant Lim Hair Junz Loke | 35A Makeup Larry Yeo using Givenchy Beauty Stylist Nicholas See Stylist's assistant Lance Gaffer Ghufran Jasni Grip Yue Qun and Yuan Hui Ronin tech and stretch op Ernest Lee Art assist Sandra Sek Outfit Coach Talent Jasmine Sokko Associate lifestyle editor Chandreyee Ray Learn more about Defender.

Industry demands shift in hybrid vehicle market

Express Tribune

12-07-2025

Automotive
Express Tribune

Industry demands shift in hybrid vehicle market

Listen to article As Pakistan unveils its long-awaited New Energy Vehicle (NEV) Policy 2025-30, aimed at reducing emissions and fuel dependence, voices from within the auto industry are calling for a shift in how new technologies are priced and positioned in the market. In a recent interaction with media in Lahore, Syed Asif Ahmed, General Manager Marketing Division at MG Motors, said that while the policy is a step in the right direction, the local Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV) market remains largely unaffordable and does not pass on the benefits of technological advancements to the average Pakistani consumer. "HEVs in Pakistan have become a luxury for a niche market," Ahmed remarked. "Despite policy support, the real advantages have not trickled down to car buyers." He noted that the most expensive HEV SUV in Pakistan – a seven-seater – carries an ex-factory price tag of Rs16 million while five-seater variants range from Rs9.6 to Rs12 million. "The industry must think seriously about affordability," he added, "and consider shifting towards Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs), which are better suited for urban use and offer real electric range." Unveiled by the Ministry of Industries, the NEV Policy 2025-30 introduces the official classification for EVs, PHEVs and hydrogen-powered vehicles as "New Energy Vehicles", in line with global standards. Ahmed was also critical of how earlier tax incentives were structured, allowing traditional hybrids to be labelled as NEVs, primarily to benefit large automotive players. "Unfortunately, these subsidies neither helped the environment nor the people. They only benefited the principal companies and their local partners." In contrast, PHEVs offer a more meaningful alternative, with pure EV driving capabilities for daily urban commutes and hybrid flexibility for long routes, helping tackle the range anxiety often associated with EVs. MG Motors has introduced Pakistan's first locally assembled Plug-in Hybrid SUV – the MG HS PHEV. It features a 16.6 kWh lithium-ion battery offering over 52 km of electric-only range, combined with a 1.5L turbocharged engine to deliver 260 HP and 370 Nm of torque, achieving 0-100 km/h in just 7.1 seconds. Priced under Rs10 million, Ahmed described the MG HS PHEV as "the best value-for-money vehicle in its class," offering advanced tech, performance and fuel economy. He informed the media that MG has sold more than 16,000 vehicles in Pakistani market so far out of which approximately 2,000 were PHEVs.

Senator: Skills in EV technology no longer optional but necessary

Borneo Post

17-06-2025

Automotive
Borneo Post

Senator: Skills in EV technology no longer optional but necessary

Ahmad (fourth right, second row) with industry partners, technical trainers, and participants in a photo call. KUCHING (June 17): Skills in electric vehicle (EV) technology are no longer optional but essential, especially for the next generation of Sarawakians, said Senator Dato Ahmad Ibrahim. 'We are not only intending to train mechanics — we are building innovators. We are not just producing workers; we are cultivating skilled talents who will drive Malaysia's green industry,' he said when launching the Hybrid Electric Vehicle and Youth Skills training programmes for Sarawakian youths at Euro Auto Garage Sdn Bhd here. The event was organised by Quick Skill Sdn Bhd, and was a forward-looking technical training initiative focused on hybrid and electric automotive technology; aligning with the rapid global shift towards green mobility and sustainable energy. He called for stronger collaboration between the public and private sectors to develop more such programmes, saying they nurtured home-grown technical talent and reduced dependency on foreign labour. Ahmad also affirmed his commitment in the Senate to support policies that expand access to technical training for youths, and proposed more grants and incentives be offered to companies actively involved in youth upskilling. Quick Skill director M Janartan Mazhubalan welcomed the strong support from national leaders, and expressed the company's continued dedication to training more Sarawakians to meet the demands of the green industrial shift. The event was attended by industry partners, technical trainers, and youth participants currently undergoing hands-on EV and hybrid training at the site's specialised workshop facility. The initiative served as a model for impactful technical training that can be replicated across Sarawak and the wider Borneo region. Ahmad Ibrahim electric vehicles mechanics skilled workers

Borneo Post

17-06-2025

Automotive
Borneo Post

‘Skills in EV technology no longer optional but necessary'

Three...Two...One: Toyota Debuts Amazing All-New RAV4

Yahoo

21-05-2025

Automotive
Yahoo

Three...Two...One: Toyota Debuts Amazing All-New RAV4

All-new, redesigned 6th generation RAV4 will be available in Core, Sport, and Rugged styles across seven grades, including a new-look Woodland and first-ever GR SPORT America's best-selling compact SUV will now be 100% electrified, in a choice of Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV) or Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) powertrains First-ever RAV4 GR SPORT, developed in partnership with Toyota GAZOO Racing, with GR-tuned handling, aggressive exterior style, exhilarating PHEV powertrain with AWD, and more RAV4 Woodland grade available in HEV or PHEV with AWD standard, higher ride height, all-terrain tires, split grille, and more Debut of 6th generation PHEV powertrain with up-to 320 hp output and 20% more all-electric drive range of 50 miles (manufacturer estimated, 42 miles previously) RAV4 HEV models move to 5th generation hybrid system and boost output to 236 hp on AWD models and 226 hp on FWD models - with FWD coming to RAV4 Hybrid for the first time Launch of Toyota's Arene software development platform, which enables Toyota Safety Sense 4.0 and a new generation of the Toyota Audio Multimedia System PLANO, Texas, May 20, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Today Toyota Motor North America announces the all-new, 2026 RAV4. For its sixth generation, America's best-selling compact SUV will be available in three new designs that include Core, Rugged, and Sport styles - among which include a new-look Woodland grade and the U.S. market's first-ever RAV4 GR SPORT model. The 2026 RAV4 also joins Toyota's ever-growing list of exclusively electrified models, as it will be available in a choice of Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV) or Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) powertrains. RAV4 also launches new technologies for Toyota, including the Arene software development platform, a new version of the Toyota Audio Multimedia system, and updates to the Toyota Safety Sense active safety suite. "At Toyota, customer choice is paramount," said David Christ, group vice president and general manager, Toyota Division. "With three distinct styles, two highly efficient electrified powertrains, and available Front- or All-Wheel Drive, the all-new RAV4 offers something for everyone and is ready to take on all of life's adventures." The 2026 RAV4 Core design combines a sleek, paint-matched grille, with Toyota's signature hammerhead front end for a modern take on RAV4. Wide overfenders with black cladding and an ascending belt line with chiseled body panels complement its SUV proportions. Wheel combinations vary, with 17-, 18-, or 20-inch wheels available, depending on the grade. Core models include the well-equipped LE, XLE, and Limited grades. The Rugged design is exclusive to the outdoor-inspired Woodland model, which now becomes a standalone grade to the RAV4 lineup. For the Rugged design, the peak of the hammerhead front end is slightly raised and its black, split upper and lower grille with integrated Rigid Industries LED lighting give it an adventurous look. The model also stands about a half inch higher due to standard All-Terrain tires, has standard raised roof rails with crossbars, and a 1¼ -inch rear activity mount for travel-ready versatility. The Woodland grade will have standard AWD and be available in a HEV or PHEV powertrain. At the forefront of the Sport designs is the RAV4 GR SPORT. Designed with input from the TOYOTA GAZOO Racing engineering division, it takes inspiration from motorsports for a model that is an expression of driving enjoyment. It prioritizes handling, with a GR-tuned suspension and power steering, enhanced body rigidity, and summer tires on unique 20-inch wheels with increased offset. It will be exclusively available with a PHEV powertrain and has a GR Functional MATRIX grille, along with front and rear wing-type spoilers for aggressive style. The XSE and SE grades round out the Sport designs. They will be available in HEV or PHEV powertrains and a choice of FWD or AWD depending on grade and have up-to 20-inch wheels, blue interior stitching, and available two-tone paint. The new RAV4 comes in PHEV and HEV models, with the PHEV models featuring a newly developed Plug-in Hybrid System that combines a high-capacity drive battery and high-output charger compatible with Toyota's latest sixth-generation hybrid. The HEV system increases output over the prior generation, climbing to 236 combined system net hp on AWD models (219 combined system net hp previously). RAV4 hybrid will also be available in FWD for the first time, and will have 226 combined system net horsepower, a 23 hp improvement over the prior generation's 203 hp FWD gas model. The latest PHEV system also adds output, with up-to an impressive 320 combined system net horsepower, up 18 hp over the outgoing system. Variety is also the name of the game for PHEV models, moving from two to four grades in model year 2026, with the Woodland and GR SPORT models joining the previously available SE and XSE. All PHEV models will have standard AWD. The PHEV model also increases its all-electric driving range to a manufacturer's estimated 50-mile range rating. The PHEV XSE and Woodland grades will have DC fast charging, capable of charging from 10% to 80% in approximately 30 minutes*. New 2026 RAV4 models are expected to start arriving at Toyota dealerships across the U.S. later this year, and pricing will be announced closer to on-sale date. Two Great Powertrains with Available Front- or All-Wheel Drive The 2026 RAV4 HEV debuts Toyota's fifth-generation Hybrid system on an SUV model. Powered by a 2.5-L, 4-cylinder engine with the fifth-generation hybrid system, it has improvements to the transaxle, power control unit, battery, and other components, all of which contribute to its enhanced motor output. A new Plug-in Hybrid system will also debut on RAV4. It will have a 2.5-L, 4-cylinder engine with two electric motors and high-capacity traction battery. For the new system, Toyota has adopted silicon carbide semiconductors in the front axle to achieve miniaturization and high efficiency. This change, in combination with the larger battery, has led to the increase in range. DC fast charging is also available, with the XSE and Woodland grades being capable of high-speed charging through an equipped CCS charging port. The SE and GR SPORT PHEV models will be equipped with a J1772 charging port. Charging at home or with standard public chargers can also be quicker with up to an 11-kW AC onboard charger available. An increase in towing capacity on specific AWD grades adds to RAV4's overall utility. The HEV XLE, Woodland, SE, XSE, Limited and PHEV SE, XSE, and Woodland grades with AWD, will be capable of towing up to 3,500 pounds. All FWD models and the LE AWD model will have a 1,750-pound towing capacity. A New Generation Inside and Out When RAV4 was first launched in the U.S. for the 1996 model year, it was a sign of what was to come for the SUV segment. Built on a unibody platform that was shared with the Corolla sedan, it tapped into a unique need for many drivers and offered easy handling with functional utility. Since then, the RAV4 has evolved through five generations and changed to fit life's adventures for customers around the world. The all-new sixth-generation 2026 RAV4 keeps the model's agile and functional spirit rolling. Built on the Toyota New Generation Architecture-K (TNGA-K) platform, the newest RAV4 will receive structural rigidity increases due to reinforcement of the frame joints and the suspension mounting points, both benefiting handling and ride comfort. It also adopts a high-damping adhesive that reduces micro-vibrations and road noise. The exterior design highlights RAV4's SUV proportions, with large tires, an elevated ride, and highly usable rear cargo area. Whether it's a Core, Rugged, or Sport model, each adapt the Toyota hammerhead front-end for a strong, modern take on RAV4. From the side, its fender flares give it a wide stance and chiseled door panels ascend to a stout rear. Stylish new LED signature taillights give the functional rear hatch a tech-forward feel, while also adding a sense of width. Additional details like front and rear spoilers, different trim colors, and wheel treatments individualize RAV4's style across the grades. The 2026 RAV4's interior prioritizes functionality, aiming for a harmonious blend of comfort and user-friendly technology. The center stack groups various functions together, like the touchscreen display, drive mode selection, and storage for a smartly organized space while the center console combines the shifter, cup holder with a removable divider, and arm rest/storage bin with a two-way closure. On select grades, the cockpit adds Toyota's new shift-by-wire system, with a minimalist toggle switch that has intuitive operation and brings a futuristic feel to the new RAV4. Choice Across the Grades The 2026 RAV4 puts choice at the center of its model lineup. For instance, FWD is available on hybrid LE, XLE, and SE grades for the first time, and the previously available AWD system is offered on all grades. The following combinations will be available: 2026 RAV4 MODELS BY GRADE AND AVAILABLE POWERTRAIN/DRIVETRAIN Core Design Rugged Design Sport Design LE • HEV Powertrain o FWD (New) o AWD Woodland • HEV Powertrain o AWD • PHEV Powertrain (New) o AWD SE • HEV Powertrain o FWD (New) o AWD • PHEV Powertrain o AWD XLE • HEV Powertrain o FWD (New) o AWD XSE • HEV Powertrain o AWD • PHEV Powertrain o AWD Limited • HEV Powertrain o AWD GR SPORT (New) • PHEV Powertrain o AWD A new, slim 10.5-inch or available 12.9-inch touchscreen gives the cockpit a clean, modern feel. Digital HVAC controls are a new feature integrated into the bottom of the touchscreen display and have a permanent home along the bottom of the screen. Across all grades, a new, standard 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster will give drivers customizable options and integrated multimedia information. A Head-Up Display will be available on the Limited (HEV) and XSE (PHEV) grades. A six-speaker audio system will be standard, and a nine speaker JBL® Premium Audio system will be available, depending on the grade. Seating surfaces will range from fabric to SofTex® with available seating colors like black, light gray, or to the new Mineral color on the Woodland. The Woodland interior also adds other touches for a vibrant, outdoor inspired cabin, like uniquely patterned perforated soft-touch door and dash panels, red orange accents and standard, Woodland-branded all-weather floor and cargo mats. On the XSE and GR SPORT grades, perforated BRIN•NAUB® microsuede and SofTex-trimmed seating with colorful accents add a dynamic feel. The RAV4 GR SPORT model adds GR logos to the front headrests and steering wheel, while paddle shifters and aluminum sport pedals give it a sporty appeal. Exterior color options also bring standout style. The Woodland grade will have an all-new available Urban Rock exterior paint color, which is exclusive to the grade, while Meteor Shower, Everest, and Storm Cloud colors join the RAV4 color palette. Favorites like Ice Cap, Wind Chill Pearl, Midnight Black Metallic, Ruby Flare Pearl, and Blueprint will continue for the new generation. Available two-tone paint options are also carried forward, like the new combination of Meteor Shower with Black roof on the XSE or the GR SPORT's exclusive pairing of Supersonic Red with a Black roof. New Tech The new RAV4 will be equipped with Arene, an all-new software development platform created by Woven by Toyota. The introduction of Arene is Toyota's first step toward fully software-defined vehicles. The platform will be the foundation for our most advanced safety, security and connectivity technologies and will create new opportunities to enhance features for our customers on a global scale. The 2026 RAV4 will also launch the newest version of the Toyota Audio Multimedia system, which is enabled by Arene. Paired with the touchscreen display, the system will have standard wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ compatibility, and simultaneous dual Bluetooth® phone connectivity. The new system changes-up the user experience with a new home button that is always displayed regardless of whether it's being operated in the native system, Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. The native Voice Assistant is also improved with quicker response times. Native map and navigation functionality will also be integrated into the digital gauge cluster. The Toyota RAV4 will also be the first Toyota model to receive the Toyota Safety Sense 4.0 (TSS 4.0) system, also powered by the Arene software development platform. The new version of Toyota's standard active safety suite will have updates to its hardware and detection capabilities. Additional details will be available closer to the on-sale date. SpecificationsCORE RUGGED SPORT Grades LE, XLE, Limited Woodland SE, XSE, GR SPORT Drivetrain LE, XLE: FWD/AWD -or- Limited: AWD AWD SE: FWD/AWD -or- XSE, GR SPORT: AWD Engine Lineup 2.5L, 4-Cyl. Hybrid 2.5L, 4-Cyl. Hybrid -or- 2.5L, 4-Cyl. Plug-in Hybrid SE, XSE: 2.5L, -or- SE, XSE, GR Sport: 2.5L,4-Cyl. Plug-in Hybrid Horsepower HEV FWD: 226 HEV AWD: 236 HEV AWD: 236 PHEV AWD: Up to 320 HEV FWD: 226 HEV AWD: 236 PHEV AWD: Up to 320 Overall Length 180.9-in. 181.8-in SE, XSE: 180.9 GR Sport: 181.8-in. Width 73.0-in. 74.0-in. 74.0-in Height 67.0-in. 67.8-in SE, XSE: 67.0-in. GR SPORT: 66.4-in Wheelbase 105.9-in. 105.9-in 105.9-in. Limited Warranty Toyota's 36-month/36,000 mile basic new-vehicle warranty applies to all components other than normal wear and maintenance items. Additional 60-month warranties cover the powertrain for 60,000 miles and against perforation from corrosion for 60 months with no mileage limitation. Hybrid-related components that require repairs needed to correct defects in materials or workmanship are covered for 8 years/100,000 miles, whichever comes first from original date of first use when sold as new. The hybrid battery is covered for 10 years/150,000 miles, whichever comes first, and is transferable across ownership. The 2026 Toyota RAV4 also comes with ToyotaCare, a plan covering normal factory-scheduled maintenance, for two years or 25,000 miles, whichever comes first, and 2 years, unlimited mileage of Roadside Assistance. About Toyota Toyota (NYSE:TM) has been a part of the cultural fabric in the U.S. for nearly 70 years, and is committed to advancing sustainable, next-generation mobility through our Toyota and Lexus brands, plus our nearly 1,500 dealerships. Toyota directly employs nearly 48,000 people in the U.S. who have contributed to the design, engineering, and assembly of more than 35 million cars and trucks at our 11 manufacturing plants. In spring 2025, Toyota's plant in North Carolina will begin to manufacture automotive batteries for electrified vehicles. With more electrified vehicles on the road than any other automaker, Toyota currently offers 32 electrified options. Through its Driving Possibilities initiative, the Toyota USA Foundation has committed to creating innovative educational programs within, and in partnership with, historically underserved communities near the company's U.S. operating sites. For more information about Toyota, visit MEDIA CONTACT Paul Note to Editors: Photos and b-roll can be found on For customer inquiries, please call: 800-331-4331 View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE Toyota Motor North America Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data