More than 75,000 Mercedes-Benz vehicles are serviced annually, supported by over 160 certified technicians across three service centres island-wide.

Scale is nothing without standards, of course, so every procedure is benchmarked to what the marque expects at its most advanced facilities worldwide.

On top of servicing regular models, this facility houses a Mercedes-AMG workshop, a Mercedes-Maybach workshop and a Body & Paint Centre of Competence, Singapore’s only facility certified at the highest level by Mercedes-Benz for full-scale body restoration and factory-grade refinishing.

The stand-out here is the Daisy Wheel, the first of its kind in Asia, automating paint mixing to 0.1-gram accuracy.

In the diagnostic bays, technicians demonstrated Xentry, the global platform that communicates directly with a vehicle’s electronic systems to run guided tests, configure components and install manufacturer-approved software.

The result is straightforward: repairs that are not just quick, but correct the first time, and updates that leave the car feeling fresher rather than simply fixed.

For all the theatre of tools and telemetrics, the thread running through the day was human.

“Having spent the past 12 years with Mercedes-Benz Operations across key markets like China and Malaysia, I have experienced first-hand how a strong focus on aftersales service shapes the customer journey. My ambition is to build on my overseas experience to further enhance our strong capabilities here in Singapore through our extensive Aftersales network, including the Mercedes-Benz Centre, Pandan Loop, and Eunos, and investing in our people by deepening our technical capabilities, and ensuring that every customer’s experience with Cycle & Carriage remains seamless, premium, and world-class.”

Thomas Tok, Chief Operating Officer, Mercedes-Benz Operations at Cycle & Carriage

So what does all this mean for an owner? Beyond routine servicing, you get a holistic, manufacturer-aligned experience, with genuine parts, factory-trained technicians, and a all-round great service culture.

Peace of mind, preserved value, and a car that feels as poised on year five as it did on week one. Isn’t that the quiet luxury we’re all really paying for?

“Through rigorous diagnostics, we perform preventive maintenance that keeps every system running at its best, while tapping into Mercedes-Benz’s global network of technical specialists. Witnessing these processes in action shows how our people, our tools, and Cycle & Carriage expertise work together exactly as the manufacturer intended to meet customer expectations.”

Gary Chan, General Manager of Mercedes-Benz Aftersales

“Aftersales” sounds transactional after going through the tour; what we saw was anything but. It was people who treat your car as if it carries their name on the boot lid.

So, next time you birng your car in for a service, rest assured it is greatly taken care of.

Read more automotive news at AutoApp, or check out our latest videos on YouTube and on TikTok!

Slated to run from 3pm on 18 April to 3pm on 20 April 2025, the challenge is a rallying cry to Kia Niro Hybrid owners to prove, in real-world conditions, what their fuel-sipping crossovers are capable of.

It’s also a tip of the hat to the Niro’s own performance legacy, harking back to its record-setting 2022 feat: a national benchmark of 970km in 24 hours, achieved without a single fuel stop.

Unlike the typical “test drive” where you spend 20 minutes figuring out how to adjust the seats, participants are invited to form three-driver teams, craft their own routes, and take shifts behind the wheel, all while coaxing every last kilometre from a sealed 42-litre fuel tank. Each team will also pass through a designated pit stop to clock in and check their standing.

It’s a strategic test as much as it is mechanical. Route planning, driver habits, terrain, all of it will factor into how far the Niro can go on that single tank.

And with real rewards on the table, the motivation to optimise every kilometre is real. $10,000 in cash and servicing credits await the team that travels the farthest, and for those crossing the 970km mark, there’s a fuel and servicing voucher bonus too.

And while the challenge is about kilometres, it’s also about community. Every team that signs up walks away with a full tank of petrol, limited-edition t-shirts, and a goodie bag to commemorate the journey. 

For those ready to test their mettle and mileage, the clock for the Unstoppable Niro 48Hr Challenge starts ticking on 18 April. One tank. One mission. One record to beat. Are you in?

Read more automotive news at AutoApp, or check out our latest videos on YouTube and on TikTok!

Starting today, C&C is officially the new distributor for Peugeot, while Leapmotor’s representation is in its final stages. The consolidation of three Stellantis brands under one roof promises to offer Singapore’s car buyers and fleet operators an enhanced selection of mobility solutions.  

“Our long-standing partnership with Stellantis is built on a shared commitment to innovation, quality, and customer satisfaction,” said Wilfrid Foo, Managing Director of Direct Motor Interests at Jardine Cycle & Carriage Limited.

“With Citroën, Peugeot, and soon Leapmotor under one roof, our goal is to offer greater choice, cutting-edge technology, and superior service. 2025 marks an exciting time as we work to expand each brand’s presence in the market.”

Cycle & Carriage is gearing up for a bold product offensive, rolling out an exciting selection of new vehicles from Citroën, Peugeot, and Leapmotor. Over the next two years, the lineups of both French brands will be completely revitalised, while Leapmotor will make its highly anticipated debut in Singapore’s EV market.  

Here’s a closer look at the proposed new models:  

Leapmotor C10

Leapmotor’s first global model, the C10, is a mid-size electric SUV designed with versatility and practicality in mind.

Built on Leapmotor’s advanced LEAP 3.0 platform, the C10 is a compelling choice for families and professionals alike.

New Peugeot 5008

Peugeot’s enhanced 5008 SUV takes the brand’s signature Allure, Emotion, and Excellence to the next level.

The latest iteration will boast a striking design, premium craftsmanship, and an updated i-Cockpit interior.

New Citroën C5 Aircross

Citroën’s popular C5 Aircross will undergo a bold transformation, blending striking design with improved efficiency. 

This model also marks Citroën’s first use of the STLA Medium platform, a state-of-the-art chassis that supports multiple powertrains, including combustion, hybrid, and full-electric options.

Strengthening Cycle & Carriage’s Automotive Portfolio 

To support this expanded lineup, Cycle & Carriage is revamping its multi-brand complex at 239 Alexandra Road. Renovations are already underway to create a dedicated space for Citroën, Peugeot, and Leapmotor, ensuring a seamless customer experience.  

“Cycle & Carriage’s long-standing history of excellence in automotive retail sets us apart as the ideal partner for Stellantis,” said Wilfrid Foo.  

“Our expertise in delivering reliable, customer-centric solutions has made Citroën a household name in Singapore. With Peugeot’s reputation for premium vehicles and Leapmotor’s innovative EV technology, we are poised to deliver the best mobility solutions for all our customers.”  

Read more automotive news at AutoApp, or check out our latest videos on YouTube and on TikTok!

The electric scooter opened its very first Singapore showroom at the Cycle & Carriage Electric Commercial Vehicle Hub in Ubi. Not only that, but they also launched three new Smartscooter models: the Gogoro SuperSport, Gogoro Premium, and Gogoro Viva Mix, all ready to hit the streets soon.

A First Look at the Future of Scootering

The showroom launch event was packed with media and industry partners who were there to check out the sleek new rides. At the opening address by Mr Bruce Aitken, Chief Financial Officer of Gogoro, and Mr Wilfrid Foo, Managing Director of Cycle & Carriage Singapore, they mentioned how battery-swapping technology will change the game by making electric scootering more convenient and stress-free. No more waiting around for a charge!

Battery Swapping? Yes, Please

So, what’s the deal with battery swapping? Instead of plugging in and waiting hours for a recharge, Gogoro’s scooters let you swap out an empty battery for a fully charged one in seconds. They’ve already rolled out this system in Taiwan, where over 600,000 riders use it, and now it’s coming to Singapore.

By early 2025, there will be four GoStations around the island where you can quickly swap batteries, with more on the way at Shell stations over the next year. It’s perfect for busy commuters who need to keep moving without long charging delays.

Meet the Scooters

Here’s what was on display at the launch:

• Gogoro SuperSport: The performance model with a range of up to 170 km. It’s got a smart system that adjusts power in real time for a smooth, responsive ride.
• Gogoro Premium: Also with a 170 km range, this scooter can toggle between boost mode for speed or smart mode for efficiency, making it a great all-rounder for zipping around town.
• Gogoro Viva Mix: The most compact and lightweight of the bunch, this scooter offers up to 150 km of range and is perfect for city riding. Plus, its scratch-resistant body is made from 100% recyclable materials, so it’s as green as it gets.

All three models will be available for purchase starting November 2024, and the best part? You won’t have to stress about charging since they’re powered by the battery swapping system, which will be available through a subscription plan starting at $70 a month. That includes unlimited battery swaps—no surprises or extra costs.

Easy Access for Test Rides and Swaps

The new Gogoro showroom in Ubi is right in the middle of an industrial zone, making it super convenient for fleet owners and businesses. Visitors can test-ride the scooters and even try out the battery swapping stations. If you’re looking to add some accessories to your new ride, the showroom has those too.

Scoot into the Future

With just 1% of motorbikes in Singapore being electric right now, Gogoro’s launch comes at the perfect time. Many people have been hesitant about going electric because of high costs or the hassle of long charging times, but Gogoro’s battery-swapping scooters solve both issues. They’re priced competitively, and the convenience of swapping batteries instead of waiting to charge is a major win for anyone on the go.

If you’re interested, Gogoro will be showing off their scooters at the National Bikers Weekend from October 18 to 20, 2024, at the Changi Exhibition Centre. You can even test-ride one and be entered for a chance to win a Gogoro Viva Mix!

With these new scooters and innovative technology, it feels like the future of scootering in Singapore is looking pretty bright.

Read more automotive news at AutoApp, or check out our latest videos on Ignition Labs TV and on TikTok!

The Maxus MIFA 7 takes family travel to a new level of comfort. With seating for up to seven passengers, this MPV offers an expansive interior.

One of the standout features is the large panoramic sunroof, which measures 1.1 square meters, flooding the cabin with natural light.

The MIFA 7 also boasts 45 storage spaces throughout the vehicle, ensuring that passengers in all three rows have ample room to store their belongings.

Accessing the cabin is via dual power sliding doors. Once inside, passengers will appreciate the second-row captain’s chairs, which offer an extensive range of adjustments. With best-in-class headroom of 1.2 meters, children can stand and move between rows freely when the vehicle is stationary.

The flat floor design ensures that both the second and third rows are equally comfortable. Even the often-overlooked third row offers impressive space, thanks to a compact rear suspension design that frees up an additional 100 mm, making these seats generous enough to comfortably accommodate three passengers.

The cabin is further enhanced by luxurious leather upholstery.

The front-end features a minimalist yet striking look, with split headlamps and dual-colour daytime running lights that double as turn signals.

Measuring 4,910 mm in length, 1,885 mm in width, and 1,756 mm in height, it’s easy to navigate through tight city streets and fit into standard parking spaces.

Under the hood, the MIFA 7 is powered by the innovative “One Pack” traction battery, developed by SAIC and CATL. With a capacity of 90 kWh, this battery offers the highest energy density in its class, providing a best-in-class range of 480 km on a single charge.

The electric motor delivers 180kW (241bhp) and 350Nm of torque to the front wheels. The century sprint is completed in 9.0 seconds and the car can reach a top speed of 180km/h.

Using a DC charger, the vehicle can recharge from 5% to 80% in just 40 minutes. For those using an AC charger, the MIFA 7 charges at a rate of 11 kW, reaching 80% in 8 hours and 30 minutes.

Safety is a top priority with the Maxus MIFA 7, which comes equipped with 21 active safety, passive safety, and driver assistance systems. The vehicle features multiple airbags (driver, front passenger, curtain, and side airbags) ensuring full protection in the event of a serious collision.

The MIFA 7 also includes advanced driver assistance systems like Forward Collision Avoidance Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, and Adaptive Cruise Control, making highway driving less stressful. The 360° Panoramic Camera and Rear Cross Traffic Alert enhance safety during parking and reversing.

“Maxus designed the MIFA 7 with the modern family in mind, ensuring that every journey is as comfortable as possible,” said Dawn Pan, Chief Operating Officer, Multi-franchise Operations at Cycle & Carriage Singapore.

“Whether it’s an outing to the mall or a long road trip, the MIFA 7 provides the space, convenience, and comfort that families need.”

The MIFA 7 is available in two variants: Luxury and Premium.

The Luxury variant features leather seats, an electric driver’s seat, an 8-speaker JBL sound system, and dual 12.3-inch screens for infotainment. The Premium variant adds Nappa leather seats, a memory function for the driver’s seat and mirrors, and ventilated front passenger seats.

Priced from S$223,999 for the Luxury trim and S$228,999 for the Premium version (both with COE), the Maxus MIFA 7 is now available for viewing and test drives at the Cycle & Carriage Maxus Showroom at 239 Alexandra Road.

Read more automotive news at AutoApp, or check out our latest videos on Ignition Labs TV and on TikTok!

This collaboration will see C&C become the exclusive distributor for Gogoro’s innovative battery-swapping system and Smartscooters in Singapore.

“While battery swapping technology and two-wheel electric vehicles are relatively new in Singapore, our partnership with Gogoro will accelerate the growth,” said Wilfrid Foo, Managing Director of Cycle & Carriage Singapore.

“The positive feedback from Foodpanda riders and valuable data gained from the sandbox pilot has given us the confidence to commercialise Gogoro in Singapore. We believe that this is a viable green mobility solution for Singapore.”

The Trial Test

Back in March 2023, C&C and Gogoro launched a pilot with Foodpanda, one of Singapore’s leading food delivery platforms. The goal was to test Gogoro’s Smartscooters and battery-swapping technology.

The pilot, set to conclude in September 2024, has been a resounding success. Riders have praised the Smartscooters for their speed, cool running temperature, silent operation, and minimal vibrations.

Battery swaps, completed in less than a minute, have proven to be quick and convenient. Riders are also pleased with the all-inclusive leasing package and aftersales support offered by C&C. On average, each rider covers about 2,200 km per month, performing up to two battery swaps daily, with each swap allowing up to 100 km of travel.

Azhar, a Foodpanda rider who participated in the pilot, shared, “I actually saved a lot of time with the battery swap compared to queuing up at petrol stations. The riding experience is also very comfortable, efficient, and convenient; the ignition method is very easy, with just a tap of the card and a thumbprint.”

The pilot revealed that Gogoro’s sustainable mobility solution is particularly beneficial for logistics, delivery fleets, and gig workers. Smartscooters provide a more convenient and quieter ride compared to traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, making them an attractive option for riders looking to go green and reduce their carbon footprint.

Horace Luke, founder and CEO of Gogoro, announced, “After working closely with Singapore’s Land Transport Authority (LTA) to secure a permit to launch our battery-swapping platform in Singapore, I am pleased to announce that Gogoro is now certified to operate in Singapore. This certification is a testament to how safe, smart, reliable, and eco-friendly Gogoro battery swapping is.”

GoStations Coming to Singapore

Gogoro and C&C have secured licensing rights to install Gogoro’s battery-swapping GoStations in Singapore. Complying with the Technical Requirements 25 (TR25) safety and performance standards, the stations have undergone stringent tests.

C&C has partnered with Shell Recharge to launch the first GoStation at Shell Yio Chu Kang service station, set to be completed by August 2024. More GoStations will be rolled out at Shell service stations across the island over the next two years.

C&C will introduce three electric Smartscooter models from Gogoro by Q4 2024:

• Gogoro SuperSport: The flagship model, offering superior power and sporty dynamics for affluent riders.
• Gogoro Premium: A stylish, everyday commuter with gloss metallic body panels and seat badge.
• Gogoro Viva Mix: A cost-efficient model designed for higher mileage users.

The new Gogoro showroom will be located at the C&C Electric Commercial Vehicle Hub at 330 Ubi Road 3, Singapore 408650, ready by Q4 2024.

C&C will also launch an all-inclusive leasing package for riders, including battery-swapping services, and service and maintenance, making operating costs more predictable compared to ICE motorcycles.

Strengthening Partnerships

Foodpanda, a key partner in the pilot, is working on a long-term partnership with C&C to lease Gogoro Smartscooters to their riders. 

C&C is in discussions with other partners in the last-mile delivery space to expand the sales of Gogoro Smartscooters and scale up battery-swapping GoStations in Singapore.

Read more automotive news at AutoApp, or check out our latest videos on Ignition Labs TV and on TikTok!

Located on Level 1 of the revamped Ubi Service Centre at 330 Ubi Road 3, this 2,960 sqft hub is set to house an extensive range of ECVs alongside a dedicated ECV service centre.

At today’s official opening ceremony, C&C also introduced the Maxus eDeliver 7, a fully electric light goods vehicle, adding to their already impressive Maxus lineup.

This event also marked the first public showcase of the Maxus T90 Pickup truck since its launch in Q4 2023. Other ECVs on display included the eDeliver 3, eDeliver 9, and Citroen’s ë-Berlingo and ë-Dispatch models.

This hub is designed to offer convenience for ECV aftersales services, strategically located in Ubi’s light industrial zone. With a capacity of 20 work bays, the service centre is staffed by C&C’s certified EV specialists, ready to provide EV maintenance services.

C&C’s expertise in commercial fleet sales allows companies to customise their vehicles extensively, from branding exteriors to reconfiguring cargo space. Their aftersales solutions (24-hour roadside assistance, onsite servicing, extended warranty programmes, and fleet management solutions) ensure businesses can operate with peace of mind.

Cycle & Carriage has also recently secured a tender from PUB, Singapore’s National Water Agency. This contract included the provision of Maxus T90 pickups, eDeliver 9s, and the new eDeliver 7, even before its official launch.

The eDeliver 7 is a mid-sized electric van designed to exceed business needs. It boasts a spacious cargo area of up to 5.9m3 and a best-in-class payload of 1,500 kg, making it ideal for handling large consignments.

With a range of 320 km on a single charge, the eDeliver 7 offers businesses the confidence to make multiple delivery trips without range anxiety.

Read more automotive news at AutoApp, or check out our latest videos on Ignition Labs TV and on TikTok!

They’ve secured the rights to sell Smart cars, an EV brand jointly owned by the Chinese automotive group Geely and German carmaker Mercedes-Benz. This deal is the latest in a series of strategic moves by C&C. Not long after they brought in Chinese EV brand Ora, they’re now planning to bring in Smart.

This announcement comes just as Premium Automobiles gears up with the franchise for Zeekr, another brand in Geely’s arsenal.

Speaking of Geely, they’re no strangers to Singapore’s roads. With brands like Lotus, Polestar, and Volvo, represented by Wearnes Automotive, Geely’s influence has already started to spread.

C&C is starting with the Smart #1, a compact crossover set to hit the streets in the first half of 2024.

“We are excited about the product offerings that Smart brings, which fit in perfectly to meet the growing demand for EVs in Singapore,” shares Wilfrid Foo, C&C Singapore’s managing director. 

Smart is getting a dedicated space at C&C’s facility at 301 Alexandra Road, ready by the third quarter. 

As C&C gears up for the launch, plans are in motion to conduct roadshows, sparking interest and bookings for the new EV. 

While micro-cars have had a mixed reception globally, the new and larger Smart models, developed with Geely, are set to turn the tide. The Smart #1, akin to the Toyota Yaris Cross in size and sharing parts with the new Volvo EX30, might just be the game-changer in Singapore’s EV market.

Already making waves in Malaysia, where it launched in late 2023, the Smart #1 is priced competitively. This sets an intriguing precedent for its arrival in Singapore, where it joins the ranks of other Chinese electric car brands like BYD and MG in 2024.

Read more automotive news at AutoApp, or check out our latest videos on Ignition Labs TV!

Mitsubishi car sales are hitting the brakes in Singapore this year. Fret not, Mitsubishi car owners – Cycle & Carriage (C&C), the brand’s representative, assures that existing owners will still receive full support.

The Driving Force Behind the Pause

It turns out that the revised Vehicular Emissions Scheme (VES) and a change in vehicle testing requirements are factors in making Mitsubishi cars not viable for sale due to price hikes. Both these new rules were enacted starting 1 January 2024.

But this isn’t the end of the road for Mitsubishi in Singapore. C&C is gearing up to re-introduce Mitsubishi in 2025, starting with the new Outlander sports utility vehicle (SUV). 

Details are still under wraps, but it sounds like Mitsubishi’s planning a grand return with models that can handle the new emissions landscape with ease.

Mitsubishi’s journey hasn’t been the smoothest ride in recent years. Registrations in Singapore have dipped significantly, and globally the brand’s footprint has also shrunk, with withdrawals from Britain in 2020 and a halt in production in China in October 2023.

Even its production numbers reflect this trend, dropping from 1.5 million in 2018 to just over one million in 2022. Nowadays, the brand doesn’t make exciting vehicles too. Some are even rebadged cars, a far cry from the Lancer Evolutions and Galants of the past. 

WLTP and VES

Come January, Singapore will adopt the Worldwide Harmonised Light Vehicles Test Procedure (WLTP) as the sole standard for new private cars and taxis. This stricter test aims to give more realistic emission results, potentially reshuffling cars into different VES bands.

The revised VES bands mean changes for many car models. For example, mass-market models like the Mazda 3, as well as premium models like the BMW 216i, are likely to be downgraded to the neutral band from Band A2. Meanwhile, some BMW models like the 318i and the Suzuki Jimny are expected to move to a less favourable band, resulting in higher surcharges.

Despite these shake-ups, most motor dealers believe that the VES changes won’t significantly impact car prices in 2024. They’re counting on a drop in Certificate of Entitlement (COE) premiums to cushion the blow.

Read more automotive news at AutoApp, or check out our latest videos on Ignition Labs TV!

Great Wall Motor (GWM), the parent company of ORA, recently hosted their EV Convoy Tour 2023, where various members of the media from Singapore and Thailand embarked on a road trip to challenge the status quo and redefine the way we view EVs.

Some folks out there still hold on to the notion that EVs are limited by their maximum battery range. But, armed with a fleet of ORA Good Cat cars, GWM set out to qualm these misconceptions.

The convoy of Good Cats cruised from the bustling streets of Bangkok, Thailand, to the vibrant heart of Singapore, covering approximately 2,000km in just seven days. A true cross-border adventure over three countries.

You might be wondering, “Okay, so how many times did they really have to charge these Good Cats?” Well, the theoretical math pegged it at around five or six times for the entire journey, given the decent 420km range each cat is able to muster. The Good Cat, according to ORA, boasts an average energy consumption of 6km/kWh.

The road trip also shed some light on the possibility of long-distance road trips in EVs. While not as seamless as conventional fuel cars, it is definitely doable, even all the way up to Thailand. 

Photo Credits: Sean Loo (@auto.driven)

Read more automotive news at AutoApp, or check out our latest videos on Ignition Labs TV!