iCAUR 03 CKD 2026 has officially launched in Malaysia with local assembly now taking place at Chery Corporate Malaysia Shah Alam Facility, marking a shift from its earlier fully imported (CBU) version introduced in 2025.
The CKD (completely knocked down) version enters the market at a starting price of RM129,800 and is currently offered in the Intelligent Wheel Drive (iWD) variant only, streamlining the lineup compared to the initial launch that included both 2WD and AWD options.
Performance remains unchanged from the imported model. The dual-motor setup delivers 279 PS and 385 Nm of torque, paired with a 69.8 kWh battery pack. It offers an estimated driving range of up to 418 km (NEDC), along with 6.6 kW AC charging and up to 80 kW DC fast charging support. The model also retains Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) capability, allowing it to power external devices.
With local assembly, the key strategic advantage is not just pricing stability but also improved supply consistency, stronger after-sales support, and potentially better long-term parts availability—factors that often matter more than headline performance in EV ownership.
From a positioning standpoint, the iCAUR 03 continues to differentiate itself with its boxy, off-road-inspired SUV design and a tech-focused cabin, targeting buyers who want something more rugged and distinctive compared to the more conventional crossover EV styling in its segment.
Whether it is a better choice than mainstream electric crossovers depends largely on priorities: if design individuality, AWD performance, and feature set matter most, it is a strong contender. If brand ecosystem, resale maturity, and charging infrastructure confidence dominate the decision, more established EV players may still hold the advantage in Malaysia’s evolving EV market.
Spotify Now Enables Legal AI-Powered Music Remixes for Users
Spotify is introducing a new feature that will allow users to legally create AI-generated remixes and cover songs using music from participating artists, through a partnership with Universal Music Group.
The initiative will apply only to artists and songwriters who explicitly consent to have their catalogs included. Under the model, both artists and songwriters will receive a share of revenue generated from AI-created remixes, marking a new monetisation stream within the music streaming ecosystem.
According to Spotify’s Head of Music Charlie Hellman, the feature enables fans to “legally produce covers and remixes” from participating catalogs while ensuring that value is shared between creators and rights holders.
The move positions Spotify in closer competition with AI music platforms such as Suno and Udio, which have rapidly grown in the generative music space. However, unlike earlier phases of AI music experimentation, this model is structured around formal licensing agreements with major labels.
Warner Music Group has already reached agreements with similar AI platforms, while discussions and legal proceedings continue in parts of the industry around AI-generated music and copyright protections.
Beyond AI remixes, Spotify is also expanding its paid subscriber benefits through a new feature called “Reserved,” which will give premium users early access to concert tickets based on listening behaviour and engagement patterns, helping prioritise genuine fans over automated resale systems.
Overall, the initiative signals a broader shift in the music industry toward regulated AI creativity, where artificial intelligence tools are integrated into streaming platforms under licensed and revenue-sharing frameworks.
iCAUR 03 CKD Launches in Malaysia: 279 PS and 385 Nm from RM129,880
