PETALING JAYA: Come April 1, some automakers and related companies are prone to issue press releases that are hard to believe and are meant to be that way.
Here are a few to raise a few chuckles.
Omoda&Jaecoo UK has launched an unusual accessory for its Omoda 5, E5 and Jaecoo 7 models, introducing a dealer-fit chopstick holder priced at £82.69 (RM475).
Designed for drivers who enjoy meals on the move, the holder fits seamlessly within the interior layout of each model, with the Jaecoo 7 featuring the accessory around the infotainment screen, and the Omoda 5 and E5 models locating it in the front cubby hole.
Hugh More, the brand’s UK accessories director, stated the product recognises the cultural significance of chopsticks, with over 45 billion pairs produced globally each year.
The accessory is available for a limited time through the company’s 72-dealer network, with retrofit options for existing customers. Chopsticks are not included, and the company has disclaimed responsibility for any food-related mishaps.
If you are reading this text with disbelief, we don't blame you. But the following is true: Omoda and Jaecoo are sub-brands of China's Chery Auto.
Honda has unveiled a pet-friendly innovation with the introduction of Catnip Car Seats, designed to make car journeys less stressful for cats and their owners.
Available across its entire model range from the Jazz to the CR-V, the new seats incorporate catnip-infused foam inserts, intended to encourage even the most reluctant cats to board vehicles without resistance.
Annie Mal, Head of Pet Products at Honda, explained that the seats maintain the same comfort and support for human occupants as standard seats.
The Catnip Car Seats are available in both cloth and leather and will be followed by a range of additional pet-friendly accessories, including a scratching post gear selector and an infotainment system featuring an animated fishbowl display.
The accessory is available to order from today.
Autoglym, the UK’s leading car care brand, has extended its expertise beyond vehicles with the launch of a new personal body-care range.
The new line includes Leather Care Face Balm, Cologne, Polar Wash Shower Gel, and a haircare adaptation of its Bodywork Shampoo and Conditioner.
The Leather Care Face Balm aims to revive tired skin, while the Cologne offers a distinctive "new car smell" featuring notes reminiscent of car mats and upholstery.
The Polar Wash Shower Gel, inspired by Autoglym’s Polar Series, delivers a foamy wash without the need for dilution, while the haircare version of the Bodywork Shampoo promises fast rinsing and drying for a polished finish.
The launch coincides with Autoglym’s 60th anniversary. Dee Taylor, Head of Bodywork Formulations (Human Division), said the range was developed following customer demand for products that reflect the brand’s commitment to quality and detail.
Start Rescue has revealed a wireless vehicle recovery system named Special Protection Over Outer Frame (SPOOF), developed in collaboration with touchless recovery specialists Highway Operations and Experiments (HOAX).
The system enables cars to be loaded onto recovery vehicles without physical contact, using a proprietary forcefield to facilitate quicker and safer breakdown assistance.
Lee Puffett, Managing Director of Start Rescue, described the technology as revolutionary, noting its potential to transform the recovery industry.
Lead designer Dr Lookma Nohands stated that while others had attempted similar concepts, SPOOF is the first to succeed.
The system is currently undergoing trials and is scheduled for full deployment in April 2026. Start Rescue, part of Call Assist, serves over two million customers and holds multiple industry accolades, including recognition from Trustpilot, Defaqto and Which?.
And then there is the rumour going around that India's Tata Motors has sold Jaguar to China's Geely Auto Holdings. Although plausible, there is no official confirmation of such a transaction. The timing of these reports, coinciding with April 1, raises the possibility that it could be a hoax.
