Q

How long can a hybrid run without gas?

The all-electric range of hybrid vehicles when running in pure electric mode without gasoline mainly depends on battery capacity and vehicle design. Plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) can typically travel 50 to 70 kilometers after being fully charged; for example, the BMW 5 Series plug-in hybrid has a pure electric range of approximately 61 kilometers. In contrast, conventional hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) have a pure electric range of only about 5 kilometers due to their smaller battery capacity. If a vehicle runs out of electricity but still has gasoline, a PHEV can switch to fuel mode to continue driving, whereas a conventional HEV cannot operate solely on electric power once its battery is depleted. Although pure electric models like the Lexus RZ450e do not belong to the hybrid category, their 450-kilometer range (WLTP standard) demonstrates advancements in battery technology. Driving habits, load, and charging methods (such as fast charging to 80% in 30 minutes) also affect the actual range. When purchasing a vehicle, one should select an appropriate model based on daily commuting distance. For instance, PHEVs are suitable for short commutes, while for long-distance needs, attention should be given to the combined range (e.g., Toyota hybrid models can achieve 800 to 900 kilometers with a full tank of fuel and a fully charged battery). Regarding battery maintenance, it is advisable to charge the battery promptly to avoid deep discharge, which can harm battery lifespan. Ternary lithium batteries have become the mainstream choice owing to their high energy density and lightweight properties.
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Latest Q&A

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What is an OTA truck?
OTA trucks refer to commercial vehicles that adopt Over-the-Air technology, whose core lies in remotely updating in-vehicle software and firmware via wireless networks. This technology allows manufacturers to directly push system upgrades to vehicles, covering modules such as in-vehicle infotainment, battery management, and power control, enabling function optimization or vulnerability fixes without vehicle owners having to visit service centers. In the commercial vehicle sector, OTA technology can significantly improve fleet management efficiency—for example, adjusting the route algorithms of logistics vehicles in real time or updating safety protocols—while reducing costs incurred by recalls. Currently, some local brands in the market, such as Proton X70, already support basic SOTA (Software Over-the-Air), while more complex FOTA (Firmware Over-the-Air) depends on the compatibility of the vehicle’s electronic architecture. It is worth noting that although OTA technology can extend the technical lifespan of vehicles, it is necessary to ensure that the upgrade process complies with the cybersecurity standards of the Road Transport Department (JPJ) to avoid potential risks.
CloverPatchCloverPatchFeb 2, 2026
Q
What is OTA and how does it work?
OTA (Over-The-Air) is a technology that remotely updates vehicle software via wireless networks. It allows car manufacturers to directly push feature upgrades, performance optimizations, or security patches to in-vehicle systems without physical contact with the vehicle. Taking Tesla's FSD system as an example, after users pay 32,000 Ringgit to opt for this feature, they can receive iterative updates of advanced driver-assistance functions including automatic lane changing and traffic signal recognition through OTA. This technical approach relies on in-vehicle visual sensors and real-time algorithm learning, enabling adaptation to complex local traffic environments. Its core advantage lies in the rapid response to technological evolution and user needs. For instance, Malaysia's diverse road scenarios (such as dense motorcycle traffic) can be used to continuously optimize system performance through vehicle data feedback. Currently, local deployment does not require additional regulatory approval, and users can activate the function via the cloud immediately after purchase. This model significantly reduces the time and cost associated with traditional 4S shop upgrades. With the development of autonomous driving technology, OTA will become a fundamental capability of smart cars. It will not only be used for feature updates but may also enable battery management optimization or regulatory adaptation adjustments for autonomous driving in the future, further enhancing the value of vehicles throughout their life cycle.
RubyRedFlameRubyRedFlameFeb 2, 2026
Q
Can I upgrade my Toyota infotainment system?
Toyota's in-vehicle infotainment system does support upgrades currently, with specific plans depending on the vehicle's model year and configuration. New models such as the 2026 RAV4 will be equipped with the all-new Toyota Arene OS 2.0, featuring the Qualcomm 8155 chip and a 14-inch touchscreen. These models support 5G connectivity, offline voice control, and customizable interfaces, among other functions, and these upgrades significantly enhance operational smoothness and intelligent capabilities. For some models from 2021 to 2023 (e.g., Camry), hardware upgrades can be achieved by replacing the chip with the Qualcomm 8155 via third-party providers, but this requires simultaneous replacement of accessories like the rearview camera, with costs ranging from approximately 3,000 to 5,000 Malaysian Ringgit. Models such as the 2024 Avalon and Crown Kluger can receive new features like in-car KTV and customizable wake words through official OTA updates, without the need for additional hardware modifications. It is recommended that vehicle owners first check whether their vehicle is on the eligible upgrade list via the official Toyota App or authorized dealers, as some older models may not be compatible with the latest system due to hardware limitations. Notably, Toyota's current upgrades focus on optimizing localized experiences, including dialect recognition and smart home integration, and these features are also applicable in the Malaysian market.
EonEonFeb 2, 2026
Q
Can I update my car software myself?
Most modern cars allow owners to update the in-vehicle software themselves, primarily through online or offline methods. For online updates, ensure the vehicle is connected to a stable Wi-Fi network. The system will automatically push update notifications; after clicking confirm, keep the engine running to avoid interruptions due to power loss. For offline updates, download the corresponding vehicle model's update package from the brand's official website to a USB drive, insert it into the vehicle's USB port, and manually initiate the update through the system settings. Pay special attention to backing up data such as navigation records and verifying that the update package is fully compatible with the vehicle model. If the progress stalls or fails, it is recommended to first check network stability or replace the storage device. For critical updates involving the powertrain or safety modules, some brands may restrict self-service, requiring visits to authorized service centers to complete the update. After updating, test functions like navigation and audio to ensure proper operation. If issues persist after multiple attempts, contact the dealer's technical support to mitigate the risk of system damage.
MoeMoeFeb 2, 2026
Q
Can OTA updates improve performance?
OTA upgrades can indeed optimize vehicle performance to a certain extent, but their functional boundaries need to be viewed rationally. By remotely updating software, car manufacturers can optimize motor control strategies to make acceleration more linear, or adjust battery management systems to improve the accuracy of range prediction—for example, the optimization of the low-temperature range algorithm for BYD's Blade Battery. For new energy vehicles, OTA can also unlock advanced driver-assistance features or improve the smoothness of existing systems; NIO, for instance, has enhanced lane-centering stability through upgrades. However, core performance parameters (such as maximum power) are limited by hardware, and software tuning is difficult to break through physical bottlenecks. OTA upgrades for traditional fuel vehicles mostly focus on infotainment functions, with little impact on powertrain performance. It should be noted that upgrades need to be completed in a stable network environment and official guidelines should be followed to ensure safety. Car owners are advised to pay attention to updates regularly, but there is no need to have overly high expectations for a performance leap.
DipDipFeb 2, 2026
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