Search

Home
Lifestyle
Personality Q&A: Hans Isaac, Malaysian Actor & Producer

By

carsomeadministrator

History Asia is in its third season of the award-winning automotive reality series Celebrity Car Wars. This year our very own Malaysian actor, producer and director Hans Isaac joins the line-up of six celebrities from around the region to test their skills, endurance and smarts in a variety of automotive challenges. Joining Hans this year for the show is Singaporean actor and comedian Munah Bagharib, Filipino Actors Diego Loyzaga and Xian Lim, Thai-Australian actor Matthew Deane and wife, Thai actress Lydia Sarunrat. We speak with Hans on this seasons’ Celebrity Car Wars and his experience with cars.

What’s different with this season compared to the previous two with Andrea Fonseka and Harith Iskander?

HI: The program is set-up so that it’s spontaneous. So every season is different and unique. For ours, it was the competitiveness between each other. But we weren’t rude; we were professional; became friends; spent time together. The entertainment of us teasing each other and the unscripted nature of the programme makes it fun.

For example, at one of the challenges, we had a Jeepney race. What made it difficult was that the cars were owned by everyday Filipinos who uses the vehicles for a living. In the driver seat, there were tupperwares of his lunch and food. The driver also mentioned that he eats his lunch prepared by his wife, in between traffic lights. All these made me realise how fortunate we are. Knowing that these guys had to make a living out of their cars, I drove his car as carefully as I could because I didn’t want to spoil someone else’s livelihood.

What’s your fondest memory and what does it mean to have a car?

HI: Well like everybody, I couldn’t afford one, hence why I always wanted one. When I got my first car, it was the start to my life. It got me to places that would allow me to earn a living, move my career forward and my direction in life. It’s very important for a guy or girl to have a car. The freedom to move around is important to me. But the thing is, everytime you have a car, there’s always looking forward for something better.

But it isn’t about owning a car, it was about saying I’ve moved forward and I can be able to have some luxury in life and it doesn’t burden you.

Tell us about your first car.

HI: I had my first car when I was 20. It was the first Proton Saga with the small hubcaps. It was white. The price of the car was RM17,500. I wanted the RM19,000 variant but my dad said no. The car was a form for me taking responsibilities, which was what my dad did to me. We went to the shop and he put a couple thousand in deposit and told me that from today, the car was my responsibility. You’ll have to pay for the gas, service, and if you damage it, it’s yours (to bear). He believed we had to earn everything ourselves. I was proud of the car.

After the Proton, I had saved a little bit, sold it and got myself a Mazda Lantis.

What would you like to drive?

HI: I would love to drive in a Formula 1, a F2 or F3 single seater car. The set-up is very different than what we race on the track. So I was hoping (on CCW) that we would be doing a single seater race. I hope if they do, they’ll invite me back next season for an episode.

What’s your general advice for Malaysians on the road?

HI: Be patient. Don’t always think that being in front of somebody is better. Allow people to move into lanes. Take your time, it’s ok to give way to someone. Also when you’re angry or not in a good mood, don’t drive. It is a cultured mindset that needs to change about traffic, laws, pedestrians on the road.

Celebrity Car Wars Season 3 is on History Asia, Astro Channel 575, every Sunday from 9
th
 September 2018.

Sell your car through Carsome today and get the best prices through our bidding platform!

Tags
Cars
Events
Lifestyle

carsomeadministrator


Search

Home
Lifestyle
Personality Q&A: Joe Takekawa, MD of Bridgestone Tyre Sales Malaysia

By

carsomeadministrator

Bridgestone Corp is the world’s largest manufacturer or tyres and other rubber products. Headquartered in Tokyo, Japan, the brand apart from tyres, also manufactures industrial rubber and chemical products, sporting goods, and other diversified products.

In Malaysia, Bridgestone Tyre Sales Malaysia is an affiliate of Bridgestone Corp and was set up in 2000 to provide exceptional customer service and provide quality products for Malaysians. We speak to Joe Takekawa, Managing Director for Bridgestone Malaysia on the status of the brand within the region, partnerships and sustainability.

You have a few range of tyres for passenger cars, mainly Potenza, Turanza and Ecopia among others. Where are the standings for each model, and how does each model contribute in total sales for Bridgestone SEA or APAC?

JT:
 I would say ECOPIA tyres contributes the most in total sales for Bridgestone Asia Pacific markets.  When ECOPIA was first launched in Asia Pacific in 2009, it was a new brand consisting of a single product, and made up 2% of the region’s passenger car tyre sales.

From 2012 to 2013 new ECOPIA products targeting a wider range of vehicles were introduced, leading to ECOPIA making up more than 20% of the region’s replacement passenger tyre sales. Five years following its launch, ECOPIA passenger car tyres achieved sales of more than 10 million in the Asia Pacific region.

Bridgestone in terms of global ranking, comes up top compared to other brands. What do you think contributes to the success of the company to make it a market leader?

JT:
 Bridgestone operates businesses around the world and covers a broad range of business activities in multiple sectors. All these business activities are connected and demand consistency between Global/Regional strategies, while offering a unique portfolio of opportunities to develop initiatives that secure our competitive advantage not only in short-term but also in the mid-to-long term.

Through these opportunities and initiatives, we have identified four basic pillars on which to build up our competitive advantage in the China and Asia-Pacific Region. They are Brand, Business operations including go-to-market aggressive channel strategies, People and Corporate Social Responsibility. Let me take this opportunity to dwell a bit on two of them: Brand and People.

Brand: Our strong commitment is to deliver our Brand promise in terms of products, services, and quality. The focus will be always on end-users/customers’ requirements and expectations, with the target of creating added value for them through continuous innovation. In doing so we will capitalize our Brand portfolio (Bridgestone, Firestone, Dayton) by tailoring the relevant balance of performance-to-cost ratio in line with market segmentation.

To promote our products and services portfolio, we will also leverage the tremendous platform provided by our Olympic Top Partnership status contracted with the International Olympic Committee until year 2024 (We are the first and only Tyre & Rubber Company in the history so far). We already have in the pipeline initiatives and plans that will communicate a strong and effective brand message that will resonate across the Asia-Pacific region.

People: Leadership style and Talent Management development are at the top of our agenda. We must have the right people on board and the right people on the right seats. The development of local talents to become capable of global management will also be in the forefront of our HR strategy. We are committed to capitalizing on the incredibly rich diversity that this region offers by promoting tailored training and education programs, while progressively assigning regional talents to key positions within the organization.

Bridgestone has been popular supplying tyres for Formula 1 since the 90s and stopped in 2010. As of currently, the brand’s only motorsport participation is in the Super GT championship. Are they any plans to continue motorsport participation of any sort? Both globally or through local races in Malaysia?

JT:
 Bridgestone supports numerous teams, drivers, and riders in a variety of events from top-level races to grassroots motorsports. Among branding and marketing initiatives through various sports events, Bridgestone views motorsports as an important communication platform that is directly linked to its tyre business. Participating in motorsports, Bridgestone aims to create higher competitive tyres while working together with car and motorcycle manufacturers and other related parties to contribute to the development of the automobile industry and motorsport culture.

Through on-track knowledge and experience during tough and competitive top-level races, Bridgestone is able to enhance its tyre development capability.

In Japan, Bridgestone will supply tyres to teams competing in the SUPER GT for cars as well as in the All Japan Road Race Championship and the Suzuka 8hours Endurance Race for motorcycles. Bridgestone will also supply tyres to teams participating in FIM* Endurance World Championship series (EWC) which is the world’s foremost series of endurance motorcycle races held in Europe and Japan.

In addition, as the official tyre supplier, Bridgestone will continue to provide Firestone brand tyres to the IndyCar Series in North America.

Bridgestone also supports various grassroots motorsports, including the TOYOTA GAZOO Racing 86/BRZ Race, the ROADSTER Party Race III, and gymkhana races.

These are examples of Bridgestone’s activities to increase the number of car fans. Through these grassroots motorsports, Bridgestone hopes to deliver enjoyable driving experiences. Moreover, Bridgestone continues to supply tyres to cars competing in Nürburgring 24 Hours Endurance Race held in Germany that gathers crowds of more than 200,000 spectators.

Bridgestone will primarily supply POTENZA brand tyres for car races and BATTLAX brand tyres for motorcycle races in pursuit of collaborative victory with teams, drivers, and riders.

Also in 2017, Bridgestone continuously supports the Bridgestone World Solar Challenge (October 8 to 15), a solar car race of teams from around the world competing on a route that spans across Australia. The company provides environmental technologies to support the student engineers taking part in this grueling race, which covers a 3,000 km course stretching from the north to the south of Australia.

Tyres are quite a difficult product to recycle. As a tyre company that has a focus on environmental concerns, what are Bridgestone’s efforts to improve tyre waste? Are there interests to produce a tyre based on previous recycled tyres?

JT:
 It is projected (by the WBCSD Tyre Industry Project) that approximately one billion used tyres will emerge worldwide each year. Reducing the environmental impact of used tyres is a common issue within the tyre industry.

Bridgestone has been involved in the Tyre Industry Project of the World Business Council for Sustainable Development (WBCSD), which was established in 2006. As the tyre and rubber company, the Company has worked toward building a sustainable society in cooperation with other companies in the industry. This project aims to develop an effective management system for used tyres by encouraging related industries and governments in various countries to appropriately manage used tyres and reduce their environmental impact through the publication of “End-of-Life Tyres (ELT): A Framework for Effective ELT Management Systems” and disclosure of survey results.

Japan Automobile Tyre Manufacturers Association (JATMA) and many others in the tyre industry are working toward reducing (controlling the emergence of used tyres) and recycling used tyres, which is vital for the development of a society that recycles. More specifically, they implement monitoring of reduction factors focusing on making tyres lighter and longer lasting, monitoring of tyre recycling status and measures against illegal accumulation and dumping of waste tyres. According to a JATMA survey, the 2016 recycling rate of used tyres in Japan was 91%. Bridgestone contributes to reducing the environmental impact of used tyres in Japan through joint activities with JATMA.

Projects in this region

Operation of Facilities Oriented toward Recycling of Used Tyres

Bridgestone Tyre Japan Co., LTD. (BTJ) operates the Bridgestone Tyre Recycle Center Osaka. The center combines functions of a retread tyre*1 manufacturing facility and an intermediate used tyre*2 treatment facility in a single location, and it enables collection*3 of customers’ used tyres, and reuse and recycling of all collected tyres. The center won the 3R (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle) Promotion Council President’s Prize at the Fiscal 2015 3R Promotion Merit Awards in Japan. We will continue to work to use resources in a more sustainable way.

Tyres that are reused by replacing tread rubber

Crushing of waste tyres that cannot be re-tread

Collection areas include Osaka Prefecture and parts of Kyoto, Hyogo, Shiga and Wakayama Prefectures The Group also collects discarded tyres in accordance with established laws/regulations and procedures.

Australia / New Zealand: Tyre Recycling – More Important Than You Think

At Bridgestone, we take the responsible disposal of end-of-life tyres very seriously and are 100% committed to helping increase the rate of tyre recycling here in Australia. And when so many useful things can be created using recycled tyres, why wouldn’t you?

Recycled tyres are often used to replace, enhance or extend the quality of materials across many markets including:

Running tracks and sporting grounds
 – Incorporating recycled rubber into running tracks assists with impact absorption, increases performance and reduces injury risks. It can also be placed under synthetic grass on sporting grounds, making it a softer place to fall.

Brake pads
 – Thanks to some relatively new technology now available in Australia, recycled rubber crumb can be repurposed to produce asbestos-free brake pads. These aren’t as noisy and have improved wearability.

Building insulation
 – For building purposes, recycled granulated rubber can be rolled into noise-reducing insulation. It’s commonly used in units and apartments, both under flooring and in the walls.

Matting and non-slip surfaces
 – A range of hard-wearing, long lasting matting products can be made from recycled rubber, including non-slip door mats and commercial workshop and kitchen mats. Recycled rubber granules can also be used to create marine non-slip surfaces, such as walkways on boats.

Civil engineering
 – Recycled tyres are often used in civil engineering jobs, such as road and drain construction. Producing road surfaces using recycled rubber improves performance, reduces noise and increases the life span of our roads.

Fuel for energy recovery
 – Recycled rubber can be used to power the production of cement, steel and even paper!

Looking to get a new car? Trade in your car for that one you’ve been eyeing! Fill up the form below to begin!

Tags
Cars
Driving
Lifestyle

carsomeadministrator

LEAVE A REPLY
Cancel reply

Comment:

Please enter your comment!

Name:*

Please enter your name here

Email:*

You have entered an incorrect email address!

Please enter your email address here

Website:

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Δ


Audi Q7 Review – A Conquered Path

Search

Home
Car Reviews
Audi Q7 Review - A Conquered Path

Audi Q7 Review – A Conquered Path

By

carsomeadministrator

If you didn’t already know, Audi’s four interlocking rings logo represents the original four members of the Auto Union – Audi, DKW, Horch and Wanderer. The Audi brand as it is known today, was one rebirthed after its current parent company Volkswagen acquired the name in 1965 and further merged it with NSU Motorenwerke AG in 1969, officially bringing the Audi brand into the modern era.

Since then, the company has progressed over the years with involvement in motorsports like rallying, touring and the 24 Hours of Le Mans – the latter most being its greatest achievement with 13 manufacturer wins to date since 2000. Of course these recognition wins are, in part and parcel of the brand’s renowned quattro all-wheel drive system that shined in two dozen WRC victories thanks to Audi’s Quattro cars in various world rally events from 1981 to 1985.

Today Audi has progressed technologically on its range of vehicles including the brand’s latest introduction of its flagship second generation Q7 locally. With seven seats and a whole range of gizmo’s inside, here’s a review of the great quattro Audi.

Exterior

In dimensions, Audi’s latest Q7 is a tad shorter and slimmer than its predecessor at 5.05 metres in length and 1.97 metres in width, but height has remained the same. Compared to the smoother lines and rounded edges on the previous, the current is evidently bolder with sharper lines that show off its athletic appeal. On the front, the singleframe grille with horizontal crossbar is wider and lower than before. With the LED headlights and daytime running lights paired as eyes on the Q7, the units with the turn signals form a double light guide arrow that is the brand’s latest light signature for Audi’s family identity.

At the rear, the instantly recognisable steeply raked D-pillars across the Q range is seen, accompanied by the tail lamps with the double arrow shape. Within the tail light units, a visual showcase of its three-dimensional appearance becomes a techno feast for the eyes. At dusk, the trapezoidal shaped lights when switched on, takes on a character of their own – with the signal lamps dynamically illuminating themselves inside-out.

Interior

On the inside, Audi Q7 welcomes the occupants into Audi’s latest design language across panels and lines, with the use of premium materials that sets it in a class of its own. Sophisticated elegance is a word we’ll use to describe the interior, heavily injected with technological features from the 21
st
 century.

On the dashboard, the complete horizontal line for the air-con vents is formed to be a singular unit, separated only by the respective sections. The centre vent is a functioning unit that can be activated by a button on the dash. The use of aluminium and leather is apparent here, with its application clearly used to highlight the various operational areas such as the shifter, knob and buttons.

Features and Safety

The S-line package that was included in the reviewed unit featured the S-line front and rear bumpers, five-spoke design rims on the exterior, and the seat upholstery in perforated Alcantara with the S embossing on the backrests with the S-line steering wheel within the cabin as the most evident upgrades on a longer list of items.

The three-spoke leather steering wheel in the S-line package.

But the closest attention to detail that stood out most for us is the capacitive aluminium switches within the centre console that reacts to the electrical impulses within the fingertips (similar to that of modern touch-screen phones.) The interior ambient lighting that runs through the door panels, centre console and dashboard aluminium trim is most noticeable at night. Customisable from the vehicle’s settings, an option of white, red, blue, green or orange can be chosen, or cycle through the preset drive-select modes.

The Q7 has four-zone climate control. Here’s the rear vent units.

Standard features like hold assist, cruise control, speed limiter, rear parking system with camera and the 360-view of the vehicle is joined with Audi’s pre-sense basic and city safety systems. Pre-sense basic is a preventive measure that tightens the front seat belts, and closes the sunroof and windows while pre-sense city observes the road and warns or applies the automatic emergency brakes should it be necessary.

Park assist is also available, and as standard with the latest systems, can automatically steer the Q7 into and out of parallel or perpendicular-parking spots on either side.

The two centre seats on the third row are electrically operated, and can be collapsed fully for a wider boot area.

The Virtual Cockpit and MMI

Seen here is the virtual cockpit in its infotainment view, where it opens up to utilize the complete display. At places of interest, the map displays 3D building images.

Audi’s headlining virtual cockpit is easily the singular most important feature for the brand since its introduction seen in the latest Mk3 TT. Replacing the traditional analog needles for tacho and speedometer combo, the 12.3-inch display has a resolution of 1440 by 540 pixels that is capable of recalculating the needle of the counter 60 times a second (similar to the refresh rate on display monitors). The driver is able to switch between a classic or infotainment view that provides a wider centre view for navigation, phone, music or a traditional view of larger instruments in full size.

Accompanying the virtual cockpit display for the driver is the 8.3-inch MMI monitor located on the dashboard. Input for the menus are through a glass trackpad, rotary control and two switches for the basic shortcuts to four menus. For a clean look, the MMI monitor can be retracted at any time.

Driving Experience

The steering wheel has a range of buttons that can be used to control menus on the virtual cockpit.

Driving the Q7 was a treat for the senses. On paper the 3.0-litre 333 hp engine delivers 440 Nm of torque, and while we’re usually not big on numbers, the pulling power alone thrilled us. The standstill to 100 km/h on paper takes just 6.3-seconds, a feat of possibilities that stumped us considering the unladen weight of the vehicle already stands at slightly over two tons.

Drive select modes that are available on the Q7. Notice the ride height modes on the bottom right that displays the vehicle’s height.

Noticeable at first is Audi Q7’s weight and size, but after the vehicle quickly grows on the driver, becomes a convenient luxury all-road cruiser. In standard fashion for vehicle’s with dynamic drive select modes, this all-wheeler has options for efficiency, comfort, auto, dynamic, allroad and individual, where the latter most allows the driver to set a basic vehicle response including engine and suspension settings (important to note here, that the individual mode on the Q7 differs on the S range of Audi vehicles that allows a more detailed tuning option.) Throttle response together with ride height and mapping changes with the different modes, as do steering when required.

The electronic shifter on the Q7, seen here with the perforated leather of the S-line package.

Dynamically the Audi Q7 performs magnificently like a four-by-four drizzled with honey and cream, smoothly gliding through gear changes, and effortlessly moving through the air as if through a vacuum. The drive is still characteristically Audi, as it provides that refinement in all situations, with the engine management, electronics, sensors and actuators working in harmony yet is able to provide significant feedback to the driver.

Specifications

Audi

Q7 with S-line package

Power

333 hp

Torque

440 Nm at 2,900 to 5,300 rpm

Engine Capacity

3.0-litre V6 petrol

Transmission

8-speed tiptronic

Litre/100km (Combined)

7.9

CO2 Emissions (Combined)

183g /km

Price

RM 602,900

Wrap Up

We’d like to go continuously detailing on this review, but we’d really have to end. Audi Q7 in a few words is a feast for the senses. As the company continues to take their vehicles on a path of technological refinement that many are heading to, we can’t stress enough that while its necessary to innovate, carmakers should always focus on the one thing that matters most. A car that’s made for drivers everywhere.

Tags
Cars
Driving
Reviews
Test Drive

carsomeadministrator


Search

Home
Lifestyle
Personality Q&A: Jonathan Disley, VP of Design, Volvo Cars China

By

carsomeadministrator

For many of us, growing up with Volvo’s in the 80s and 90s brought memories of robust vehicle’s with angular lines of the 200, 700 and 900 series. While many only remember Volvo’s as these boxy vehicles, the brand also introduced us to smooth lines 30 years prior, with the Amazon and the P1800. But the brand isn’t forgotten. Today Volvo in the new millennium has made a comeback to sexy curves seen in the S60, V40, XC60 and XC90, to praise and awe. And while some might see the brand’s current designs as a leap into the future, they do hold an evolutionary aspect with heritage to its Scandinavian roots. We speak to Jonathan Disley, Vice President of Design for Volvo Cars China on the design cues and attention to detail that goes into its vehicle’s today.

The interior of Volvo’s new S90 sedan and V90 estate.

The saying “form follows function” is greatly spoken of when it comes to design. How is this expressed when it comes to Volvo cars?

JD: I think form following function is a very Scandinavian way of dealing with things designed in Sweden, Denmark and Norway. For example, some items like a wooden chair is made in a way that it doesn’t look forced. This is done so that it looks like it’s using its natural ability true to its materials. So for example wood, if you bent it more, it would looked forced. If you treated it in a different way, you can make it look incoherent. A lot of the things we do is about form following function. A lot of it is simplified back to its basic things. It’s a normal process for us and something we don’t think about but it comes naturally when we’re designing.

A couple of examples is when you look at the exterior of the S90, it is extremely beautiful because there is nothing forced on that exterior. The section of the body is the way it is, to allow the hinge points but also for all the pieces inside – the structure, the crash beams and more. But the curvature just allows it to look great. If you make a material too flat, it doesn’t look strong. If you make it look big, it looks too heavy. So the material itself has to look correct and have a balance. You can make a piece of material look really cheap or expensive by the way it is bent. Getting an understanding on what those curvatures are and its forms, is what ‘form follows function” mean.

Seen here is the brand’s Concept Coupe grille, that although shapes the future, is inspired by the grille slits of the P1800. Both feature 23 grille slits, which is also seen in the new S90.

A lot of Volvo’s design follows the ethos of minimalistic Scandinavian design. Is minimalistic design difficult to achieve?

JD: It is extremely difficult to achieve. It has a lot to do with the way you use the materials that stays honest to its nature. I think a lot of the time, you can make things look simple, but if you don’t have the right materials, it becomes really cheap. In the past, you have a very simple design, but you need to have the correct finishing, colours, balance, surfaces to make it all work. If you take for example, a kitchen or home appliance that is high end, it is a very utilitarian piece that has to function. But to simplify it, you can only do it if you have high quality materials. If you don’t use those materials, it automatically becomes cheap looking. It’s the same with watches. Some smartwatches are cool high tech items, but in terms of touch and material, it doesn’t feel premium. The watch and the way it works is a unique piece of design, but it doesn’t compare with a well-made luxury timepiece. You need to make something look exclusive to be exclusive. Perception is everything I think.

The Thor’s Hammer design seen in the Concept Coupe is now the signature of the brand’s line-up. It is named after the Scandinavian God of Light.

Would you be able to share the lengths you’ve gone as a designer on a part of a Volvo that people greatly take for granted? Parts which people don’t realise has gone through countless hours of work?

JD: Usually the bone of contention has been the infotainment system. Like I’ve mentioned before, it has been about where to place a button. If you do it right, it automatically feels like it’s always been there. But if you do it wrong, you can really have problems. With the S60 or S80 before, you had a row of buttons, and each of those buttons had to be a certain section and had to have a distance between buttons, of a certain volume and radii, pushing distance, and it goes on. Everybody wants to be at the middle section, because that is the least distance from your eyes to the road. A car is extremely complicated to do and design. And a car’s interior is a few thousand parts compared to the hundreds of parts in the exterior. Every single piece has to go together. The customer won’t ever think about the complexity that goes into every single car.

What designs have you taken inspiration from while growing up as a designer? Designers that you admire?

JD: Growing up as a designer, cars have always been an inspiration for me. Architecture is an amazing thing and Zaha Hadid was an amazing person who broke rules. But I think what’s happening nowadays is that there are so many creative students out there. That for me is amazing. The guys that are coming up and getting into design are certainly going to pave the way with whatever is coming up next. But the thing is, there are geniuses like Zaha Hadid, but in general, inspiration for me is taking something everyday from a different source. It’s so fast and continuous today, when compared to getting inspiration from person to person in the past. Thomas Ingenlath, our Senior VP of Design is an inspiration because he instinctively knows when something is right. We will at times disagree with each other but he has a good eye at finding the right balance. And I really respect that with his knowledge and taste as a designer. There are very few people I’ve met that has that.

Volvo’s iconic P1800 of the 1960s.

Having been at Volvo for 16 years, you’ve been able to see the evolution of the brand. Where does it go from now?

JD: I think the biggest evolution is the different owners Volvo’s had. When it was privately owned, Volvo was a bigger company than some automakers. But at the time, they didn’t develop fast enough. Volvo has had some amazing times in its history. With our current owners Geely, it is extremely good times because they trust us to deliver amazing products. We have the freedom to work on things that customers can benefit from. And with Geely, they have allowed us to lead the way. They’re really savvy and trust us to do the best we can do. The cars we’re doing and those you’ll see this year are incredible.

Tags
Cars
Driving
Lifestyle

carsomeadministrator


Personality Q&A: Klaus Landhaeusser, GM Automotive Sales Original Equipment SEA at Robert Bosch

Search

Home
Lifestyle
Personality Q&A: Klaus Landhaeusser, GM Automotive Sales Original Equipment SEA at Robert...

By

carsomeadministrator

Almost 40 years ago, multinational engineering company Bosch began series production of the antilock braking system or ABS for short, which lay the foundation for most safety systems in a vehicle today. The technology is a simple yet effective safety system that prevents the wheels from locking – allowing the driver to maneuver the vehicle even under hard braking. On the safety front, the company has been instrumental in many of the core safety systems which includes the traction control system (TCS) and electronic stability program (ESP). While these technologies are available in vehicles today, what about motorcycles?

We speak to Klaus Landhaeusser, General Manager, Automotive Sales Original Equipment SEA for Robert Bosch on the importance of ABS for motorcycles and the reduction of greenhouse gas emisssions for the ASEAN region.

Earlier last year, the figures released by Bosch revealed that Malaysia’s adoption rate for anti-lock braking systems are lower than that of neighbouring countries Indonesia and Thailand. How can Bosch as the pioneer for ABS technology and a leader in automotive equipment help advise the Malaysian people or the local auto industry to take this more seriously?

KL:
 Malaysia has one of the highest road traffic fatalities in the ASEAN region and more than 60 per cent of road accidents affect motorcyclists. Add that to the 18 fatalities per day that was recorded in 2015 because of road accidents, it is evident that immediate action is necessary to tackle this problem. Bosch has the technology to help reduce the number of road accidents not just in Malaysia, but globally as well.

Our recent accident research shows that roughly one fourth accidents could be prevented if the motorcycle is equipped with antilock braking system (ABS). ABS prevents the wheels from locking up which allows riders to remain in control of the motorcycle and react more quickly without fear in a critical situation while braking.

Furthermore, by 2021, approximately 160 million two-wheelers will be produced annually, roughly one-third more than today. Nearly 90 per cent of these will be built in China, India, and Southeast Asia. As we cannot put a cost on safety and because one life lost is one too many, we are bringing our ABS technology to all classes and markets. In 2016, we released the ABS 10, a variant that is designed specifically to meet the requirements of emerging markets. With its compact dimensions and weighing just 450 grams, this system is easier for manufacturers to integrate into mopeds for price-sensitive customers.

Worldwide, more and more countries are promoting motorcycle ABS. Throughout the EU, all newly sold motorized two-wheelers with more than 125 cc displacement must be fitted with an antilock braking system as of 2017. Starting in October 2018, Japan will be mandating ABS for new type approvals for motorcycles with more than 125 cc. Brazil and Taiwan, too, have already passed laws mandating ABS in the future. With safety advancements readily available, it is necessary for the local regulators and the automotive industry to follow suit to keep up with the rest of the world on safety standards.

What we feel is lacking – awareness on safety technologies and advancements. Which is why we are working closely with various stakeholders including the New Car Assessment Program for South East Asian Countries (ASEAN NCAP) and the Malaysian Institute of Road Safety Research (MIROS) to create awareness on motorcycle ABS. We recently organised a live motorcycle demonstration during the ASEAN NCAP Stop The Crash Campaign in Sepang, to provide insights on motorcycle ABS and how it can potential deter unwanted road accidents.

We have come a long way in terms of vehicle safety and technological systems. Based on a list of available automotive safety systems, how much further do we have to go to make vehicles that is truly safe for passengers everywhere?

KL:
 Studies show that 80 per cent of traffic accidents in Malaysia are caused by human error. Hence, reducing the human element is key. In future, autonomous cars present a potential solution to eliminate this human error component. Until the technology and market is mature for usage, Bosch is continuing its efforts in this region to promote vehicle safety systems that help drivers during critical situations such as the motorcycle antilock braking system (ABS), motorcycle stability (MSC) and electronic stability program (ESP) for cars, amongst many more.

What are your top 3 favourite Bosch automotive safety systems and why?

KL:
 Firstly, it is the Electronic Stability Program (ESP), which already includes ABS. ESP intervenes and assists a vehicle to gain stability during a forthcoming accident. Most fatal accidents are side collisions which happen when a vehicle skids and ESP drastically reduces such risk. ESP has helped me countless times in avoiding accidents during sharp corners and avoiding sudden cars appearing at junctions. This is important to me since my regular passengers are my wife and kids.

Secondly, it would be the e-Call systems. Time is essential during accidents in ensuring the victims receive immediate help as soon as possible, otherwise the result might be fatal. The system will analyse the vehicle sensor signals to elaborate the severity of the accident, and will contact the nearest authorities with the precise location. Hence, victims of the accident get a quicker response time, especially by accidents in secluded areas.

Thirdly, it is the Side-View-Assist (SVA)/Lane Keeping Support (LKS). Changing lanes in Malaysia can be difficult especially when motorcycles often weave between the lanes or when a car suddenly speeds up hindering you from switching lane. I find this most useful, so that we as drivers can be alerted much earlier if any vehicles are approaching from our in a blind spot and LKS can support by counter steering if we misjudged the situation. In case of tiredness or unintended change of lanes, the LKS system helps to counter steer to keep you in the lane. Both systems can help avoid accidents altogether.

Based on your previous works in your profile, you have advised ASEAN governments on the reduction of CO2 and green-house gas emissions, how has that advice grown since? And where would your goal to an emissions free future begin?

KL:
 The Malaysian government has taken an encouraging step to reduce 40 per cent greenhouse gas emission (GHGE) by (2005 level) by 2020. We see a lot of potential and positive actions in the market. Fuel companies have voluntarily switched to Euro 5 diesel before the official implementation date on 2020 and Euro 4 is now available for Ron97 petrol. These fuel standard implementations will reduce more GHGE emission from vehicles.

However, the most used RON 95 petrol is still of Euro 2 standard. As a strong commitment from Malaysia government, legislating Euro 4 fuel standards would be essential in order to reach the self-set target by 2020. Additionally, the majority of the global automotive market have already mandated with Euro 4/5 standards. One might agree that for Malaysia moving the same standards would be essential for additional future export business.

Malaysia is also moving in the right direction towards the production of electric vehicles (EV). Demand of electricity will increase substantially if low emission vehicle such as EV is successfully introduced. Hence, before large scale implementation, it’s important that the energy source has to be shifted from fossil to renewable energy (i.e. solar or water) in order not to move the emissions from transportation towards energy production. Only by the shifting towards renewable energy, electrification can lead to lower emissions. The experience in other markets has shown that adopting a technology neutral vehicle taxation scheme, based on emissions or fuel consumption, would spark the adoption of cleaner vehicles / technologies.

When it comes to driving in Malaysia, what message would you like the Malaysian public to know when it comes to safety?

KL:
 There is still a lack of public awareness on vehicle safety features and habits of safe driving needs to be strengthen. It surprises me that most Malaysians would not be willing to spend any additional money on safety features but rather on comfort and design features. I could myself witness that in many cases when cars are equipped with safety features they are mostly not fully utilised.

As an example, many new vehicles now comes with a child seat lock or seatbelt, however very often I could see children jumping around in the cars without being buckled-up. Even though seatbelts are mandatory, I saw many passengers not utilising this life saving equipment. Such simple safety devices can protect you and your loved ones and have saved so many lives during critical traffic incidents.

My recommendation to Malaysians is therefore:

Think twice before purchasing your next vehicle. Spend money on safety features than on beautification (i.e. spoilers or sound systems). Never forget that the value of yours and your loved one’s life is priceless. Better be safe than sorry!

What do you think? Share with us your thoughts and comments on vehicle safety!

Also if you’re interested in a vehicle that has these features,
click here
 to check out Hyundai’s latest Ioniq Hybrid!

Tags
Driving
Lifestyle
Tips

carsomeadministrator


Personality Q&A: Mark Raine, VP Sales & Marketing Passenger Cars of Mercedes-Benz Malaysia

Search

Home
Lifestyle
Personality Q&A: Mark Raine, VP Sales & Marketing Passenger Cars of Mercedes-Benz...

By

carsomeadministrator

Mercedes-Benz Malaysia (MBM) has been on record breaking achieving figures for the past three years. In 2016, the brand launched 17 model and variants and sold 11,779 vehicles or a nine per cent improvement over 2015’s record year. But that didn’t stop the brand. This year’s third quarter performance marked a total of 8,771 vehicles sold with 19 new models and variants launched in 2017. This brings the brand’s current vehicle line-up locally to over 50 variants in the Malaysian portfolio.

As we end 2017, we speak to Mark Raine, Vice President of Sales and Marketing for Passenger Cars at Mercedes-Benz Malaysia on their vehicle line-up, PHEV’s and outlook for 2018.

MBM ended 2016 with another record year with 17 models launched, sold almost 12,000 vehicles and followed on this year with 19 models. How do you decide which models to focus on and continue to grow the current line-up in the MBM portfolio?

MR: We look at the market carefully and analyse where the future trends might be. We make cars available in Malaysia through market requirements based on customers who would like to purchase vehicles in specific segments. For instance, it is a decision at this moment that we’re not offering station wagons because we see that market covered in our SUV range which in concept are similar. For our Dream Car range, we want to offer the biggest variety of dream cars – coupe’s, cabriolets, roadsters and performance AMG’s. For me this is important because we are the premium market leader and need to have that variety for the high-end customers to choose from. This is also part of our commitment to being a luxury brand and offer that choice.

Do you feel that with a vast portfolio of cars, there is a risk of one product outshining another?

MR: For us, we want to sell as many cars as possible of the Mercedes-Benz brand, and for me the goal is to make customers happy. The first step to making customers happy is by offering the right product. If we’ve provided the customer with the choice and allow them to decide that they’ve the right vehicle, the customer will be happy and we’ve done a good job. Of course there is also the buying, aftersales and service experience.

Since your introductions of the C350e and E350e, what are your thoughts about the adoption of PHEV’s and the local recharging infrastructure?

MR: With our C350e, we were one of the first to launch a plug-in hybrid in Malaysia. We started off with the S400 Hybrid, a conventional hybrid that was followed up 10 months later with the E300 BlueTec Diesel Hybrid and now are in our third wave of Plug-in hybrids. PHEVs are fairly new to the market but the infrastructure is starting to be established. The government has a very concrete plan together with Greentech Malaysia in terms of rolling out the charging infrastructure. Our dealers are equipped with fast charging wallboxes which the customers can opt to purchase one for their house. It is still in progress and developing in the right direction, and I’m happy with that.

The brand’s current line-up of cars are growing popular amongst the younger generation thanks to the strong presence it commands. Other than just the product, how does Mercedes-Benz Malaysia continue to keep existing and attract younger clientele over from your competitors?

MR: For me it’s not a tradeoff, it’s complementary. We’ve dissected our product portfolio into four groups – compact cars, limousines, SUV’s and Dream Cars. When we do an event that engages with the compact car customers, it is different than with the launch of an E-Class. The former mentioned, like the Urban Hunting event is very targeted and edgy, aimed at the younger generation, while the E-Class is more subdued, conservative and according to our customers needs and desires.

We also have successful platforms like our Mercedes Trophy Golf Series. That targets a more traditional customer. But we are also adding new platforms like the Mercedes-Benz Driving Experience that is across the range, targeting Dream and Performance cars.

On a lighter note, what has been the best advice you’ve ever received from your mentors?

MR: I’ve been encouraged to think independently, to be critical, but at the same time, have an approach of integrity, knowing what is right and having that internal compass of doing the right thing for the right reasons and yet not stop to be daring.

One individual mentor in the company has supported me over the past years in terms of progressing my career has had a huge portion of my success. I think it’s always healthy to have trusted individuals like my family, wife and father who has given me guidance, provided me feedback and reflected together with me. The ability to reflect on your personal behaviours, performance and knowing what’s good and needed to improve is also a crucial ability.

Which is your favourite Mercedes-Benz vehicle of all time? Why?

MR: I have not a favourite car, it’s a few. I’m a huge fan of the CLS and was driving the CLS shooting brake before coming to Malaysia. I think it’s the perfect symbiosis between a traditional E-Class limousine and a coupe. I love the design and progressiveness of that car. I also like the S-Class Coupe, GLC Coupe and the GTS as well.

What are your plans for 2018 in Malaysia?

MR: The past three years have been exciting, with 2015 being hugely successful, 2016 was a firework of new products and the segment of our premium SUV range, and 2017 with the eight AMG’s alone are mindblowing. But I’m most excited about 2018 cause we’re gonna have new and revised products in all of our four product groups. We’ve got hugely exciting things happening with the brand and I’m very excited and optimistic.

Sell your car fast, fair and free today! Fill up the form below for hassle and haggle free car selling with Carsome!

Tags
Cars
Events
Lifestyle

carsomeadministrator


Personality Q&A: Pang Yoon Kong

Search

Home
Lifestyle
Personality Q&A: Pang Yoon Kong

Personality Q&A: Pang Yoon Kong

By

carsomeadministrator

The advancement of cars nowadays have reached a semi-autonomous state that many have forgotten about the creations and innovations of the simplest things in the everyday vehicle. From the humble spark plug, to the comfort of switching on the vehicle’s lights and being able to start the vehicle inside the cabin is one of the many things that Bosch has made possible since a century ago. Fast forward to automobiles of today, and you have more advanced systems like ESP, Traction Control, Airbags, Start-Stop system provide economical and safe solutions to every drive.

What separates Bosch from the rest? We speak to Pang Yoon Kong, Country Manager for Bosch Automotive Aftermarket Malaysia on how he grew up with cars, and what’s next for the multinational company.

What makes Bosch special?

YK: Bosch is a very unique company. A foundation company where 97 per cent is held by the Robert Bosch Foundation. We determine our own future strategic moves. It is also unique in a sense that the company is focused in one thing – that our innovations must enhance the quality of life. That is where our focus is. The next three key areas that we are targeting are connected mobility, autonomous driving and electro mobility. We are very future driven. We believe we have the software and hardware at both ends, and the engineering to connect it all together.

What should Malaysians learn when it comes to driving on the road?

YK: Malaysians should typically pay attention to the parts of their cars when it is replaced. Knowing how to replace them isn’t important, but they should be conscious to know which parts go into their vehicles. We advocate quality parts, and Malaysians should make cautious decisions in knowing what goes in. We believe in doing so, car drivers can be safe on the road. This can reduce road accidents and fatalities when it comes to festive seasons. It is sad to know that every year more Malaysians are losing their lives on the road. It saddens us that it could be faulted by not having a quality part.

What is the most innovative Bosch part in a car?

YK: That has to be the Electronic Stability Programme (ESP) or Vehicle Stability Control (VSC). To be honest, I had a close encounter at a corner on the highway once. I wasn’t driving fast, but because the road was wet, the ESP actually saved me from knocking into the car ahead, it also saved me from hitting the divider. I had my wife and two children with me at the time. I appreciate that technology very much. I felt very comfortable after that.

Is being in Bosch part of a growing up passion for automotive?

YK: The first car I had was a Proton Wira, I loved it, it was very durable. I moved on to quite a few cars after that. I had a Mazda Lantis, Hyundai Sonata, Volkswagen Golf and even a Naza Ria. Those are the cars that were in my life. If you would to ask me about my favourite car however, it would be Porsche Boxster or Spyder.

Any lessons for Malaysians when it comes to using quality parts for your car?

YK: Start with Bosch. We produce quality and really reliable parts. With the Advantage Wipers, they would fit 90 per cent of Asian cars easily. Don’t save on dollars and cents when it comes to safety. That is our key message.

You mentioned about Autonomous Driving, where do you see the automotive industry as a whole heading to in the next 10 years?

YK: We foresee that by 2030, autonomous driving will be a key mobility and we are focused into it. We at Bosch in general have the capability to do so and are pushing towards that. Car manufacturers themselves are looking and are keen into it as well. So that is the future.

What do you think about the advancements of Bosch’s products and how they have enriched our lives? Share with us your comments!

Want to know how former F1 driver Alex Yoong approaches motor racing?
Click here
 to find out more!

Tags
Cars
Lifestyle

carsomeadministrator


Search

Home
Lifestyle
Personality Q&A: Philip Chee, Fuel Specialist at Chevron

By

carsomeadministrator

Chevron Malaysia’s Caltex with its recent launch of the brand’s Power Diesel Euro 5 with Techron D in Malaysia marks a growing availability of better and cleaner diesels locally. Developed with close to a zero sulfur content, the new Power Diesel Euro 5 contains less than 10 parts per million (ppm) of sulfur in comparison with the current Euro 2M rating with 500ppm. How will it benefit your vehicle and why should you choose diesel? We speak to Philip Chee, Fuel Specialist at Chevron on the improvements the brand’s latest diesel and also the differences between diesel and biodiesel.

Please share with us the benefits and a brief explanation of Caltex’s Power Diesel Euro 5 as compared to the previous versions of diesel available on the Malaysian market.

PC:
 Currently for our Power Diesel Euro 5 as compared with our Euro 2M diesel, you will definitely feel the difference. The Power Diesel with Techron D has a formulation that is proven to control deposits, help maintain fuel injector cleanliness and enhance engine performance.

The Euro 5 implementation is to reduce exhaust emissions that result in lower levels of harmful emissions and cleaner and better air quality. This improvement of Euro 5 is without a doubt much better than what we have currently at Euro 2M. It is the best diesel we’ve ever produced.

What is your take on diesel cars of today versus the ones made in the 1990s?

PC:
Diesel engines have long been touted as being too large, loud, and inefficient and have become infamous for the plume of soot and smoke that shoots out of the tailpipe upon starting. However, with new technology being developed in Europe, diesel engines are quickly becoming known for their new clean and more dependable nature.

New composite materials and a better understanding of the mechanics behind engines have allowed engineers to develop engines which transform more of the energy in the fuel into mechanical energy. This also allows for a reduction in the amount of energy that is lost as heat.

Exhaust after-treatment technologies (post-combustion) such as filters and catalytic converters are used in the exhaust pipe to trap particulate matter that escapes from the cylinder. The NOx and particulate matter emissions can be brought down to near the level of hybrid cars with a combination of fine filters and catalytic converter technologies.

Diesel engines also provide a lot more power as well as lower fuel consumption than their gasoline counterparts.

(Centre) Shahid Ahmed, Country Chairman of Chevron Malaysia with Philip Chee, Fuel Specialist at Chevron.

With the introduction of Euro 5 diesel, emissions will be improved as well. What are the general figures of emission improvements for Euro 5 versus Euro 2 diesel?

PC:
The Euro 5 emissions standard imposes a sulphur requirement on Caltex Power Diesel at 10ppm (max) as compared to the Euro 2 emissions standard requirement on Euro 2M diesel at 500ppm (max).

With a reduction in sulphur content by a factor of more than 50, we believe Caltex Power Diesel with Techron D can help reduce emissions and pollutants in the environment.

Recently there are talks of an introduction of B10 Biodiesel to the Malaysian market. What is the difference between diesel and biodiesel?

PC:
Biodiesel is a form of fuel manufactured using feedstocks such as vegetable oils, animal fats, or recycled restaurant greases. In Malaysia, the feedstock used is palm oil.

Biodiesel is made through a chemical process called transesterification and the resultant methyl ester (biodiesel) has a slightly different physical property as compared to diesel e.g. higher density & viscosity, lower stability etc.

What do you think about the availability of Euro 5 Diesel’s in Malaysia? Is it past overdue? What about biodiesel? Share with us your thoughts in the comments!

Tags
Cars
Lifestyle

carsomeadministrator

LEAVE A REPLY
Cancel reply

Comment:

Please enter your comment!

Name:*

Please enter your name here

Email:*

You have entered an incorrect email address!

Please enter your email address here

Website:

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Δ


Search

Home
Lifestyle
Personality Q&A: Piet Boon, Designer and Founder of Studio Piet Boon

By

carsomeadministrator

Dutch designer Piet Boon might not be a familiar name amongst those in the East, but in the west, his creations through the Studio Piet Boon brand is reflected in bespoke contemporary architecture, interiors and product designs. From tableware and lights, to kitchen and bathware, his studio has a long list of exquisite design credentials which include the Jawaher Villas Riyadh, The Fontenay Hamburg, and now in Malaysia, the AIRA Residence.

But for PB, his style isn’t only reserved for the living space. His automotive collaboration with Land Rover is one that started a decade ago. In the recent unveiling together with a unique black-on-black 5.0-litre Supercharged Range Rover Sport priced at an exclusive RM1.29 million. We speak with the illustrious designer on his collaboration with the British four-wheel-drive manufacturer and how he looks at design.

Please share with us how did the collaboration with Land Rover start in 2006?

PB:
 The longstanding collaboration between Studio Piet Boon and Land Rover dates back to 2006. Ten years ago in search for a suitable brand partner, the Dutch Director Benelux – Marc Bienemann – approached Studio Piet Boon as he believed the studio’s philosophy of balancing functionality, aesthetics and individuality matched Land Rover’s brand values; performance, luxury and excellence. Piet Boon has been a brand ambassador ever since and vice versa. Over the years Piet Boon has designed over ten limited editions, varying from a Range Rovers to Defenders and from Range Rover Sport’s to Evoque’s. The latest edition to the one-of family is the ‘Last Defender by Piet Boon’.

How would you describe one of the most common design traits of a Piet Boon design?

PB:
 High-end timeless design, quality and our philosophy of balancing functionality, aesthetics and individuality.

Of all the various designs you’ve collaborated with Land Rover, which is your favourite and why?

PB:
 I don’t particularly have a favourite, because to me, each edition is unique in its own way.

At the recent unveiling of the AIRA Residence, guests were also treated to an up-close look at a black-on-black Range Rover Sport. How would you say your designs on the AIRA has trickled into the Range Rover? Or perhaps vice versa?

PB:
 I am very much part of the selection process when it comes to determining the materials and other details. I also prefer to use locally sourced materials as much as we can. Luxury, to me, is in the details – materials used, graphic patterns, design. Everything is well-thought and carefully selected. Quality is key in luxurious designs.

I also associate luxury living with bespoke living. It is an extension of YOU – your personality and what drives you. For AIRA, we managed to blend our concept of spatial arrangements with the East-Asian way of living. For this we researched the Malay culture, way of living and interior customs. In doing so, we were able to embed our Western spatial arrangements according to the function of the spaces, use of (natural) light and clear sight lines in the Eastern way of living.

Growing up, where would you get your inspiration from? And which designers did you look up to?

PB:
 When working on a project, the process of looking for inspiration is mostly the same. Essentially we have to understand the concept and then we listen to and watch the world around us and are inspired by what we hear, see and feel. People we meet, nature, food, cultures, colours etc. are just a few examples.

As an international multidisciplinary design studio, we call the world our workplace.

How different is it designing for products vs for property and automotive? Are there a specific set of rules that you’d stick to as a designer?

PB:
 For me, the challenge arises in harmonizing between function and aesthetic. Once you have found the balance, everything else will fall into place.

Which automotive designer or special partnerships do you have a liking to? Share it with us in the comments!

Interested to know more about the Renault Koleos and its current signature design?
Click here
 to read our interview with Christophe Dupont, Managing Director of Renault Design Asia.

Tags
Cars
Lifestyle

carsomeadministrator


Search

Home
Lifestyle
Personality Q&A: Stephan Winkelmann, CEO of Audi Sport GmbH

By

carsomeadministrator

The 2017 season of the Audi R8 LMS Cup began early this month with an interesting line-up of new drivers and innovations to make this sixth Cup season, one of the most interesting yet.

In terms of innovation, this season sees the return of push-to-pass, where drivers are provided with 12 temporary 10-second boosts of 50-horsepower for their cars that add a layer of strategy for each race. And for the first time, the remaining push-to-passes available for each driver is visible on each side of the cars through an LED display (which flashes when in use). Furthermore, a weight success ballast system provides a challenge for the drivers as the race winner will have to drive with an extra 50 kg in their car (35 kg for 2nd place and 20 kg for 3rd) for the following race.

For this year’s first leg, three-time Cup Champion and Malaysian racing driver Alex Yoong takes an unexpected spin on Round 1 but regained a win for Round 2. Overall, Belgian Alessio Picariello maintains a 14-point championship lead ahead of Alex Yoong.

Present at the race as well was Audi Sport’s current CEO, Stephan Winkelmann, who managed to spend time with the media in a Q&A session (together with Bernd Goeres, Director of Audi Sport customer racing Asia) about his former position at Lamborghini, and his plans for Audi Sport. The following Q&A was conducted by various media’s during the group session.

Seen here is Stephan Winkelmann, CEO of Audi Sport GmbH and Bernd Goeres, Director of Audi Sport customer racing Asia at the race.

The R8 Cup has been around for six years now, and its roughly been about five to six tracks per season. Are there any intentions to bring it out of Asia or expand it to include more tracks?

BG:
 We always plan the season ahead of time, and we have already begun planning for next year. For us the focus is in Asia because of our base in mainland China, so the Chinese market is important for us. But we always look where there are interesting race tracks. For us this is very important for our drivers. For example, we have already gone to Abu Dhabi once, so expanding is possible. What is interesting for us is how we can use this market to have a good programme for race drivers on a race track.

Stephan Winkelmann with three-time R8 LMS Cup Champion, Alex Yoong.

Where do you see hybrid technology heading in the Audi Sport brand?

SW:
 I think performance cars have to change and decide whether the next step will be an evolutionary or revolutionary approach. It depends on the steps you take when heading towards making a better electric vehicle because sooner or later the difference between cars of today, and the future, has to be explained to customers. It’s a matter of battery technology, weight of the car, keeping up with the top speed, range and infrastructure. One day, a customer will be asking for a sports car where sustainability will be part of the everyday. Because of the new generation, mindset, and legislation of things will influence the way we look at a car of tomorrow. But there will be a difference between the first electric cars and the last of the combustion engine cars. It is very important to explain what you’re going to do, and why you are going to do it.

Round 2 of the race podium is (from left) Alessio Picariello, Alex Yoong and Mitch Gilbert.

How do you decide which models become Audi Sport models?

SW:
 It depends on the segments and body styles. You skip the ones which are not made to be performance cars, but you also have to look carefully into the growing segments and the models which give prestige to a brand. Then there is a scarcity and priority, and for me, size, bodystyle and segment matters. For example we believe SUV’s will be more important for the Audi Sports line, the limousines and other types of cars.

Where do you see innovation heading to?

SW:
 Audi is known for Vorsprung durch Technik, we invest in the future, which means investing in the latest technology. We have to pick the things which are paramount for the success of tomorrow, and that which is making a difference as a brand. We then decide which is the right thing to do. As an example, if you look at Ur-Quattro versus the Quattro of today, you have a big difference. We have to create new things, believe in the future to be as good as the present and the past. Because if you can only repeat what you do best, you will be recognised as someone who is running out of ideas.

Tags
Cars
Events
Lifestyle

carsomeadministrator


Personality Q&A: Tengku Djan Ley, Malaysia’s Prince of Drift

Search

Home
Lifestyle
Personality Q&A: Tengku Djan Ley, Malaysia's Prince of Drift

By

carsomeadministrator

You could say that Tengku Djan’s involvement into anything automotive is one that runs in the family. His interest in cars began when he was five, when his father Tengku Tan Sri Mahaleel would take him along for drives. It was this that Tengku Djan would eventually grow his interest in motor racing. Today, nicknamed ‘The Prince of Drift’, Tengku has numerous awards and recognition in the world of drifting, where his fifth placement in the D1 Grand Prix World All-Star Tournament in 2006 put Malaysia on the map in the world of drifting and has since partnered with Bridgestone. We speak with Tengku Djan Ley briefly on his journey thus far.

How did your partnership with Bridgestone come about?

TDL:
Our partnership goes back to the inaugural D1 Grand Prix Malaysia 2006. Malaysia’s first professional drift series hosted by Japan’s premier drifting series. I managed to win the 5 round championship and represented Malaysia in the D1 Grand Prix World All-Star Tournament at the end of 2006 where we finished 5th. We have been in partnership ever since.

As a drifter, the tyres that are on your car allow you to be at your best.  Please share with us how Bridgestone has been part of your success.

TDL:
Yes. Tyres are crucial in any discipline. Be it 4 wheel or 2 wheel, race or simply travelling to work daily. It is the only component which connects the car to the road. Bridgestone tyres provides me with a high level of grip and steering connectivity which is crucial in motor racing in both wet and dry conditions. The tyres consistency is unmatchable, giving me the confidence to push hard when it matters.

Every drift championship i have won, i have done it on Bridgestone Potenza tyres since 2006.

D1 Grand Prix Malaysia 2006

Formula Drift Singapore 2008

Formula Drift Asia 2009

Formula Drift Asia 2010

Drift All Star Thailand Series 2011

There are numerous car accidents and deaths that happen yearly during festive seasons in Malaysia. What is the most important advice do you have for drivers who must do long distance drives?

TDL:
 Most important is to check your tyre pressure regularly. This will help maintain the tyres at its optimal condition. Rotating tyres between the front and back regularly will also help even out the wear on all 4 tyres. You can do this during your vehicle’s periodic service.

You should also visually check your tyres from time to time to ensure you have enough thread. There are tyre indicators that will help you check thread depth visually. This is important as the tendency to aqua planning is high due to monsoon rain in this region.

What advice do you have for anyone interested to participate in motorsports in Malaysia?

TDL:
 Do it in a controlled and organised manner. Do not take motorsports to the street. There’s a lot of info via social media to help you get started in motorsports. From karting to grassroots time trails, there are many types. And once you feel confident you have the Malaysian Speed Festival which is the stepping stone to professional motorsports.

What has been your proudest moment in your career?

TDL:
Finishing 5th in the D1 Grand Prix World All-Star Championship back in 2006. That single event has put Malaysia on the map of drifting and still talked about until today.

What do you see yourself doing in motorsports, in years to come?

TDL:
Not too sure to be honest. I’m still very active driving or racing right now but slowly branching out to some level of driver training, race car consultancy and race car development. I can’t be behind the wheel forever and yes, I would love to part with my knowledge with other Malaysians who share the same aspirations as me.

Images are copyright of their owners and sourced from Tengku Djan’s princeofdrift.com website.

If you’re looking to trade in your car for that new ride, fill in the form below for a free valuation and sell your car through Carsome today!

Tags
Cars
Driving
Lifestyle

carsomeadministrator


Search

Home
Lifestyle
Personality Q&A with Eugene Yong, Senior Manager Automotive of Nippon Paint Malaysia

By

carsomeadministrator

    Komyosha was established in Tokyo by Jujiro Moteki in 1881. It was not until 1898 that the company was incorporated and renamed Nippon Paint. This marked the birth of a full-scale modern paint industry in Japan. In Malaysia, the brand has established itself since 1967, and today is the top third brand in the refinish market of automotive coatings.

    Nippon Paint entered the automotive OEM market in the mid-70s, and was the first Paint manufacturer to supply the Pearl system to the OEM segment for mass production cars during the late 1980s automotive boom.

Here the pull test is meant to determine the adhesion strength of the paint to the surface layer.

    To reflect the Asian continent that is rich in diversity, the brand has focused not just on innovating colours, but products as well. The industry first Cyglaz automotive paint features a strong molecular structure that has better scratch, chemical and gasoline resistance, as well as innovative self-healing properties.

    We speak to Eugene Yong, Senior Marketing Manager for Automotive at Nippon Paint Malaysia and question about car care and the brand's future in paints.

Eugene Yong (right), Senior Manager Automotive, with Ong Eng Keong (left), Assistant GM of Industrial Unit of Nippon Paint Malaysia.

In the various survey’s done by the brand, do you think generally Malaysians select their car’s colour based on their personality, or one that would be easier to clean, or even based on its resale value?

    EY: Based on a recent survey we had carried out, 71% of Malaysian car owners would choose to
change their car colour if they were given a choice
. In fact, they would may select a car colour to suit their individual personality and preference. In another finding, 56% of Malaysians would prefer to respray their cars in non-conventional and vibrant colours which could be an interesting reflection of Malaysian’s take on colours for their cars – probably due to the unique exposure to a rich mix of multicultural heritage.

    On the other end of the spectrum, however, are the practical side of Malaysians who believe that a hassle-free maintenance is ideal for their busy lifestyle. Hence, there are some who would prefer Black as a to-go-to colour to conceal dirt marks but being at risk of having to deal with obvious scratch marks. There is also another group of individuals who believe that White would be a better colour to conceal scratch marks and willingly send their car for frequent washes to remove the obvious dirt marks. Looking at the pros and cons of both conventional colours, it’s no wonder that silver and grey are seen to be popular OEM colour choices among Malaysians.

What are the common misconceptions people have about taking care of their car’s paint?

    EY: Getting a new car detailed frequently, from the point of purchase is a necessity. Thorough cleaning and reconditioning of the interior and exterior of the car, from top-to-bottom goes a long way in protecting the coating of a car. However, frequent polishing may cause the opposite effect for the car paint, which is the thinning of the already present protective clear coating. This exposes the car’s coating to even higher risks of being damaged by environmental factors such as stone chips and constant Ultra Violet (UV) Ray exposure.

Quite a lot of Malaysians have cars that have scratches, stone chips and etc, what is your advice to conceal these defects?

    EY: Over a period of time driving on the road, the surface coating of the car may experience fine scratches and swirl marks, gloss drops, stains from bird droppings and petrol marks. Experiencing scratches and chipping for car coatings are inevitable. These marks may be quite unsightly, depending on the severity of the damage. There are various aftermarket solutions that could solve the issue of fine scratches and stone chips through part replacements of the car. Unfortunately for marks that are deep, it would most likely have damaged the paint film. The best way to remove these deep and severe marks is by repainting the surface of the car to give it a brand new look, free of blemish. It may be a costly option but on the bright side, it is an excellent opportunity to change the colour of the car with Nippon Paint’s Trend Colour for Mobility to reflect the true personality of the owner!

As The Coatings Expert, what are your tips and advice for general paint car care especially in Malaysia, where there’s heat, rain and exposure to nature all year round?

    EY: Always remember that car paint in its original form has a fair standard of durability in maintaining the overall condition of the car paint including its gloss and protection. It is advisable to conduct regular cleaning of the car to remove dirt and other stubborn marks on the surface of the car. Polish a car only when it is absolutely necessary, at a maximum of only 4 times a year. If the damage is too deep into the protective clear coating, it would be a good time to reconsider respraying the car. Not only will the car look brand new, it would also have greater resale value.

    It is recommended to always use quality coating products to ensure a smoother finish and longer lasting coating especially in humid weathers such as Malaysia’s.

What about washing tips? Cloths, soaps, and polishing?

    EY: When it comes to washing cars, remember to wash only when necessary with quality cleaning solutions and clean microfiber towels. Avoid over polishing of the car, as it thins the existing protective clear coating of the car.

What is the future of paints, and what is Nippon Paint aiming to achieve in the near future?

    EY: Leveraging on Nippon Paint’s Trend Colour for Mobility, we will continue to innovate car colour solutions to meet the changing needs of consumers.  The Research and Development team is constantly developing products to cater to the demands of both car owners and applicators in terms of quality and efficiency.

    From a marketing perspective, we are always working towards ensuring that Nippon Paint is always in the consumer’s top of mind for automotive refinish. To further reinforce our position apart from our competitors, Nippon Paint is actively involved in automotive events such as Auto Fest which took place in 2016 and Malaysia Commercial Vehicle Expo (MCVE) in 2017.

    Apart from driving sales for our car paint, it has always been our focus to inspire car owners to take on car repainting as a culture, to encourage them to explore various colour possibilities for their cars and for us to continuously introduce better and more innovative automotive solutions which are relevant for our consumers.

Did you know that given a chance, 71 per cent of Malaysian owners would change their car colour.
Click here
 to check out Nippon Paint's Trend Colours for Mobility 2018/19.

Sell your car through Carsome and connect yourself to over 800 used dealers through our bidding platform!

Tags
Cars
Colour
Lifestyle

carsomeadministrator


Search

Home
Lifestyle
Weekly Petrol Price for RON95, RON97 & Diesel in Malaysia

By

Haziq Asyraf

Want to know the petrol price for this week? Let’s get you up to speed! Curious about how fuel prices are calculated in Malaysia? The formula used to calculate the price of fuel is called the Automatic Pricing Mechanism (APM) formula- so prices are updated weekly based on this formula. Bookmark this page for weekly up-to-date prices and information!

Fuel Prices for This Week: 27 July – 2 August 2023

The weekly fuel prices in Malaysia for RON 95, RON 97, and diesel are updated every Wednesday evening and take effect on Thursday starting 12:00 AM till the following week (Wednesday 11:59 PM). Below are the  updated fuel prices for this week:

RON 95:
RM2.05 (no change)

RON 97:
 RM3.37 (no change)

Diesel:
 RM2.15 (no change)

Petrol FAQs

We’ve also compiled some of the frequently asked questions about petrol, its differences, and its prices.

1. Should I wait for the changes in petrol price before filling my car up?

While this might help you save a few bucks every other week when the price goes down, the oil price in Malaysia is determined by the global market which makes it difficult to gauge the cost in the long run.

2. What is RON?

In Malaysia, you can find two different types of petrol used in cars, RON 95 and RON 97. People usually think RON has something to do with the quality of petrol which translates into the different prices between them both. But RON is just an abbreviation of Research Octane Number (RON) which signifies the branches of the hydrocarbons.

3.
What is the difference between RON 95 and RON 97?

The numbers just signify the number of branches of hydrocarbons. The higher the number of branches, the higher the level of compression needed to detonate the fuel. When the compression ratio is high, the horsepower per engine weight is also higher which in turn, gives you a high-performing engine.

4. Which RON should I use for my car?

Every car is manufactured with a minimum compression ratio, and the best way to know which fuel type best suits your car is to check it up with your service center. Generally, fuels with a higher number of octane (eg: RON97) are used in high-compression, high-performance engines. Filling a vehicle with a lower RON than the one specified by the car manufacturer may lead to pre-ignition, a scenario that could ruin the car engine in the long run or even result in an explosion.

5. Can I use RON95 for my RON97 car?

You can still fill your RON97 car with RON95 and your car will still run. But, it will not run effectively and cause a whole lot of damage to the engine in the long run which translates to more expenditure to repair it up.

6. Can I use RON97 for my RON95 car?

Using RON97 in a RON95 car does not bring any harm to your car but it might end up hurting your wallet as RON97 is generally more expensive. You would not gain anything in terms of additional performance as your car’s engine is made for RON95. RON97 is used for higher compression engines and is recommended for cars of 2,500cc and above.

7. What is the difference between Petrol and Diesel Petrol?

These both are made from the same base, mineral oil. The only difference is the way they are refined. Diesel petrol is said to be easier in refining and it also produces more energy during combustion.

8. What is the difference between Petrol and Diesel Engines?

Other than the obvious difference which is the petrol price, the one that sets these two apart is the way combustion happens. A petrol engine mixes fuel with air and gets compressed by pistons and this compressed mixture is ignited by the spark plugs to move the pistons.

Diesel engines on the other hand compress the air before adding fuel. High compression of air creates high temperature and heat that is used to combust the diesel fuel when it is added, so no spark plugs are needed to ignite the combustion.

9. Are cars powered by Diesel engines more efficient?

As each liter of diesel produces more energy than petrol, it is said to be more efficient. And being more efficient means requiring less amount of diesel fuel to produce the same amount of power as petrol.

10. Which is better – RON95, RON97, or Diesel?

Between these three types of fuel, none is superior to the other. The right fuel for your car all depends on the type of car that you drive.

Petrol Price History

Weekly Fuel Price Update

RON95

RON97

Diesel

July 27 – August 2 2023

RM2.05 (RM0)

RM3.37 (RM0)

RM2.15 (RM0)

July 20 – July 26 2023

RM2.05 (RM0)

RM3.37 (RM0)

RM2.15 (RM0)

July 13 – July 19 2023

RM2.05 (RM0)

RM3.37 (RM0)

RM2.15 (RM0)

July 6 – July 12 2023

RM2.05 (RM0)

RM3.37 (RM0)

RM2.15 (RM0)

June 29 – July 5 2023

RM2.05 (RM0)

RM3.37 (RM0)

RM2.15 (RM0)

June 22 – June 28 2023

RM2.05 (RM0)

RM3.37 (RM0)

RM2.15 (RM0)

June 15 – June 21 2023

RM2.05 (RM0)

RM3.37 (RM0)

RM2.15 (RM0)

June 8 – June 14 2023

RM2.05 (RM0)

RM3.37 (RM0)

RM2.15 (RM0)

June 1 – June 7 2023

RM2.05 (RM0)

RM3.37 (+RM0.02)

RM2.15 (RM0)

May 25 – May 31 2023

RM2.05 (RM0)

RM3.35 (RM0)

RM2.15 (RM0)

May 18- May 24 2023

RM2.05 (RM0)

RM3.35 (RM0)

RM2.15 (RM0)

May 11 – May 17 2023

RM2.05 (RM0)

RM3.35 (RM0)

RM2.15 (RM0)

May 4 – May 10 2023

RM2.05 (RM0)

RM3.35 (RM0)

RM2.15 (RM0)

April 27- May 3 2023

RM2.05 (RM0)

RM3.35 (RM0)

RM2.15 (RM0)

April 20 – April 26 2023

RM2.05 (RM0)

RM3.35 (RM0)

RM2.15 (RM0)

April 13 – April 19 2023

RM2.05 (RM0)

RM3.35 (RM0)

RM2.15 (RM0)

April 6 – April 12 2023

RM2.05 (RM0)

RM3.35 (RM0)

RM2.15 (RM0)

March 30 – April 5 2023

RM2.05 (RM0)

RM3.35 (RM0)

RM2.15 (RM0)

March 23 – March 29 2023

RM2.05 (RM0)

RM3.35 (RM0)

RM2.15 (RM0)

March 16 – March 22 2023

RM2.05 (RM0)

RM3.35 (RM0)

RM2.15 (RM0)

March 9 – March 15 2023

RM2.05 (RM0)

RM3.35 (RM0)

RM2.15 (RM0)

March 2 – March 8 2023

RM2.05 (RM0)

RM3.35 (RM0)

RM2.15 (RM0)

February 23 – March 1 2023

RM2.05 (RM0.00)

RM3.35 (RM0.00)

RM2.15 (RM0.00)

February 16 – February 22 2023

RM2.05 (RM0.00)

RM3.35 (RM0.00)

RM2.15 (RM0.00)

February 9 – February 15 2023

RM2.05 (RM0.00)

RM3.35 (RM0.00)

RM2.15 (RM0.00)

February 2 – February 8 2023

RM2.05 (RM0.00)

RM3.35 (RM0.00)

RM2.15 (RM0.00)

January 26 – February 1 2023

RM2.05 (RM0.00)

RM3.35 (RM0.00)

RM2.15 (RM0.00)

January 19 – January 26 2023

RM2.05 (RM0.00)

RM3.35 (RM0.00)

RM2.15 (RM0.00)

January 12 – January 18 2023

RM2.05 (RM0.00)

RM3.35 (RM0.00)

RM2.15 (RM0.00)

January 5 – January 11 2023

RM2.05 (RM0.00)

RM3.35 (RM0.00)

RM2.15 (RM0.00)

December 29 2022 – January 4 2023

RM2.05 (RM0.00)

RM3.35 (RM0.00)

RM2.15 (RM0.00)

December 22 – December 28 2022

RM2.05 (RM0.00)

RM3.35 (-RM0.20)

RM2.15 (RM0.00)

December 15 – December 21 2022

RM2.05 (RM0.00)

RM3.55 (-RM0.20)

RM2.15 (RM0.00)

December 8 – December 14 2022

RM2.05 (RM0.00)

RM3.75 (-RM0.10)

RM2.15 (RM0.00)

December 1 – December 7 2022

RM2.05 (RM0.00)

RM3.85 (-RM0.10)

RM2.15 (RM0.00)

November 24 – November 30, 2022

RM2.05 (RM0.00)

RM3.95 (RM0.00)

RM2.15 (RM0.00)

November 17 – November 23, 2022

RM2.05 (RM0.00)

RM3.95 (RM0.00)

RM2.15 (RM0.00)

November 10 – November 16, 2022

RM2.05 (RM0.00)

RM3.95 (RM0.00)

RM2.15 (RM0.00)

November 3 – November 9, 2022

RM2.05 (RM0.00)

RM3.95 (RM0.00)

RM2.15 (RM0.00)

October 27 – November 2, 2022

RM2.05 (RM0.00)

RM3.95 (RM0.00)

RM2.15 (RM0.00)

October 20 – October 26, 2022

RM2.05 (RM0.00)

RM3.95 (RM0.00)

RM2.15 (RM0.00)

October 13 – October 19, 2022

RM2.05 (RM0.00)

RM3.95 (RM0.00)

RM2.15 (RM0.00)

October 6 – October 12, 2022

RM2.05 (RM0.00)

RM3.95 (-RM0.05)

RM2.15 (RM0.00)

September 29 – October 5, 2022

RM2.05 (RM0.00)

RM4.00 (-RM0.05)

RM2.15 (RM0.00)

September 22 – September 28, 2022

RM2.05 (RM0.00)

RM4.05 (-RM0.10)

RM2.15 (RM0.00)

September 15 – September 21, 2022

RM2.05 (RM0.00)

RM4.15 (-RM0.05)

RM2.15 (RM0.00)

September 8 – September 14, 2022

RM2.05 (RM0.00)

RM4.20 (-RM0.10)

RM2.15 (RM0.00)

September 1 – September 7, 2022

RM2.05 (RM0.00)

RM4.30 (RM0.00)

RM2.15 (RM0.00)

August 25 – August 31, 2022

RM2.05 (RM0.00)

RM4.30 (-RM0.05)

RM2.15 (RM0.00)

August 18 – August 24, 2022

RM2.05 (RM0.00)

RM4.35 (-RM0.05)

RM2.15 (RM0.00)

August 11 – August 17, 2022

RM2.05 (RM0.00)

RM4.40 (-RM0.10)

RM2.15 (RM0.00)

August 4 – August 10, 2022

RM2.05 (RM0.00)

RM4.50 (-RM0.05)

RM2.15 (RM0.00)

July 28 – August 3, 2022

RM2.05 (RM0.00)

RM4.55 (-RM0.10)

RM2.15 (RM0.00)

July 21 – July 27, 2022

RM2.05 (RM0.00)

RM4.65 (-RM0.10)

RM2.15 (RM0.00)

July 14 – July 20, 2022

RM2.05 (RM0.00)

RM4.75 (-RM0.05)

RM2.15 (RM0.00)

July 7 – July 13, 2022

RM2.05 (RM0.00)

RM4.80 (-RM0.04)

RM2.15 (RM0.00)

June 30 – July 6, 2022

RM2.05 (RM0.00)

RM4.84 (RM0.00)

RM2.15 (RM0.00)

June 23 – June 29, 2022

RM2.05 (RM0.00)

RM4.84 (+RM0.01)

RM2.15 (RM0.00)

June 16 – June 22, 2022

RM2.05 (RM0.00)

RM4.83 (+RM0.11)

RM2.15 (RM0.00)

June 9 – June 15, 2022

RM2.05 (RM0.00)

RM4.72 (+RM0.02)

RM2.15 (RM0.00)

June 2 – June 8, 2022

RM2.05 (RM0.00)

RM4.70 (RM0.00)

RM2.15 (RM0.00)

May 26 – June 1, 2022

RM2.05 (RM0.00)

RM4.70 (+RM0.37)

RM2.15 (RM0.00)

May 19 – May 25, 2022

RM2.05 (RM0.00)

RM4.33 (+RM0.02)

RM2.15 (RM0.00)

May 12 – May 18, 2022

RM2.05 (RM0.00)

RM4.31 (+RM0.37)

RM2.15 (RM0.00)

May 5 – May 11, 2022

RM2.05 (RM0.00)

RM3.94 (RM0.00)

RM2.15 (RM0.00)

April 28 – May 4, 2022

RM2.05 (RM0.00)

RM3.94 (+RM0.13)

RM2.15 (RM0.00)

April 21 – April 27, 2022

RM2.05 (RM0.00)

RM3.81 (RM0.00)

RM2.15 (RM0.00)

April 14 – April 20, 2022

RM2.05 (RM0.00)

RM3.81 (RM0.00)

RM2.15 (RM0.00)

April 7 – April 13, 2022

RM2.05 (RM0.00)

RM3.81 (-RM0.10)

RM2.15 (RM0.00)

March 31 – April 6, 2022

 RM2.05 (RM0.00)

RM3.91 (+RM0.08)

RM2.15 (RM0.00)

March 24 – March 30, 2022

 RM2.05 (RM0.00)

RM3.83 (-RM0.17)

RM2.15 (RM0.00)

March 17 – March 23, 2022

 RM2.05 (RM0.00)

RM4.00 (+RM0.25)

RM2.15 (RM0.00)

March 10 – March 16, 2022

RM2.05 (RM0.00)

RM3.75 (+RM0.30)

RM2.15 (RM0.00)

March 3 – March 9, 2022

RM2.05 (RM0.00)

RM3.45 (+RM0.16)

RM2.15 (RM0.00)

February 24 – March 2, 2022

RM2.05 (RM0.00)

RM3.29 (+RM0.02)

RM2.15 (RM0.00)

February 17 – February 23, 2022

RM2.05 (RM0.00)

RM3.27 (+RM0.06)

RM2.15 (RM0.00)

February 10 – February 16, 2022

RM2.05 (RM0.00)

RM3.21 (+RM0.09)

RM2.15 (RM0.00)

February 3 – February 9, 2022

RM2.05 (RM0.00)

RM3.12 (RM0.00)

RM2.15 (RM0.00)

January 27 – February 2, 2022

RM2.05 (RM0.00)

RM3.12 (+RM0.05)

RM2.15 (RM0.00)

January 20 – January 26, 2022

RM2.05 (RM0.00)

RM3.07 (+RM0.00)

RM2.15 (RM0.00)

January 13 – January 19, 2022

RM2.05 (RM0.00)

RM3.07 (+RM0.04)

RM2.15 (RM0.00)

January 6 – January 12, 2022

RM2.05 (RM0.00)

RM3.03 (+RM0.03)

RM2.15 (RM0.00)

December  30 – January 5, 2022

RM2.05 (RM0.00)

RM3.00 (+RM0.01)

RM2.15 (RM0.00)

December  23 – December 29, 2021

RM2.05 (RM0.00)

RM2.99 (-RM0.01)

RM2.15 (RM0.00)

December  16 – December 22, 2021

RM2.05 (RM0.00)

RM3.00 (+RM0.01)

RM2.15 (RM0.00)

December 9 – December 15, 2021

RM2.05 (RM0.00)

RM2.99 (-RM0.03)

RM2.15 (RM0.00)

December 2 – December 8, 2021

RM2.05 (RM0.00)

RM3.02 (-RM0.03)

RM2.15 (RM0.00)

November 25 – December 1, 2021

RM2.05 (RM0.00)

RM3.05 (-RM0.03)

RM2.15 (RM0.00)

November 18 – November 24, 2021

RM2.05 (RM0.00)

RM3.08 (RM0.00)

RM2.15 (RM0.00)

November 11 – November 17, 2021

RM2.05 (RM0.00)

RM3.08 (+RM0.02)

RM2.15 (RM0.00)

November 4 – November 10, 2021

RM2.05 (RM0.00)

RM3.06 (+RM0.09)

RM2.15 (RM0.00)

October 28 – November 3, 2021

RM2.05 (RM0.00)

RM2.97 (+RM0.10)

RM2.15 (RM0.00)

October 21 – October 27, 2021

RM2.05 (RM0.00)

RM2.87 (RM0.00)

RM2.15 (RM0.00)

October 14 – October 20, 2021

RM2.05 (RM0.00)

RM2.87 (+RM0.10)

RM2.15 (RM0.00)

October 7 – October 13, 2021

RM2.05 (RM0.00)

RM2.77 (+RM0.01)

RM2.15 (RM0.00)

September 30 – October 6, 2021

RM2.05 (RM0.00)

RM2.76 (+RM0.01)

RM2.15 (RM0.00)

September 23 – September 29, 2021

RM2.05 (RM0.00)

RM2.75 (+RM0.02)

RM2.15 (RM0.00)

September 16 – September 22, 2021

RM2.05 (RM0.00)

RM2.73  (RM0.00)

RM2.15 (RM0.00)

September 9 – September 15, 2021

RM2.05 (RM0.00)

RM2.73  (+RM0.01)

RM2.15 (RM0.00)

September 2 – September 8, 2021

RM2.05 (RM0.00)

RM2.72  (RM0.00)

RM2.15 (RM0.00)

August 26 – September 1, 2021

RM2.05 (RM0.00)

RM2.72  (-RM0.02)

RM2.15 (RM0.00)

August 19 – August 25, 2021

RM2.05 (RM0.00)

RM2.74  (+RM0.00)

RM2.15 (RM0.00)

August 12 – August 18, 2021

RM2.05 (RM0.00)

RM2.74  (+RM0.00)

RM2.15 (RM0.00)

August 5 – August 11, 2021

RM2.05 (RM0.00)

RM2.74  (+RM0.00)

RM2.15 (RM0.00)

July 29  – August 4, 2021

RM2.05 (RM0.00)

RM2.74  (+RM0.1)

RM2.15 (RM0.00)

July 22  – July 28, 2021

RM2.05 (RM0.00)

RM2.73  (+RM0.00)

RM2.15 (RM0.00)

July 15  – July 21, 2021

RM2.05 (RM0.00)

RM2.73  (+RM0.03)

RM2.15 (RM0.00)

July 8  – July 14, 2021

RM2.05 (RM0.00)

RM2.70  (+RM0.01)

RM2.15 (RM0.00)

July 1  – July 7, 2021

RM2.05 (RM0.00)

RM2.69  (+RM0.02)

RM2.15 (RM0.00)

June 24  – June 30, 2021

RM2.05 (RM0.00)

RM2.67  (+RM0.02)

RM2.15 (RM0.00)

June 17  – June 23, 2021

RM2.05 (RM0.00)

RM2.67  (+RM0.02)

RM2.15 (RM0.00)

June 10  – June 16, 2021

RM2.05 (RM0.00)

RM2.65  (+RM0.02)

RM2.15 (RM0.00)

June 3  – June 9, 2021

RM2.05 (RM0.00)

RM2.63  (+RM0.02)

RM2.15 (RM0.00)

May 27  – June 2, 2021

RM2.05 (RM0.00)

RM2.61  (RM0.00)

RM2.15 (RM0.00)

May 20  – May 26, 2021

RM2.05 (RM0.00)

RM2.61  (+RM0.01)

RM2.15 (RM0.00)

May 13  – May 19, 2021

RM2.05 (RM0.00)

RM2.60  (RM0.0o)

RM2.15 (RM0.00)

May 6  – May 12, 2021

RM2.05 (RM0.00)

RM2.60  (+RM0.02)

RM2.15 (RM0.00)

April 29  – May 5, 2021

RM2.05 (RM0.00)

RM2.58  (+RM0.00)

RM2.15 (RM0.00)

April 22  – April 28, 2021

RM2.05 (RM0.00)

RM2.58  (+RM0.04)

RM2.15 (RM0.00)

April 15  – April 21, 2021

RM2.05 (RM0.00)

RM2.54  (+RM0.00)

RM2.15 (RM0.00)

April 8  – April 14, 2021

RM2.05 (RM0.00)

RM2.54  (+RM0.02)

RM2.15 (RM0.00)

April 1  – April 7, 2021

RM2.05 (RM0.00)

RM2.52  (+RM0.02)

RM2.15 (RM0.00)

March 25  – March 31, 2021

RM2.05 (+RM0.00)

RM2.50 (+RM0.03)

RM2.15 (+RM0.00)

March 18  – March 24, 2021

RM2.05 (+RM0.00)

RM2.47 (+RM0.07)

RM2.15 (+RM0.00)

March 11  – March 17, 2021

RM2.05 (+RM0.00)

RM2.40 (+RM0.05)

RM2.15 (+RM0.00)

March 4  – March 10, 2021

RM2.05 (+RM0.00)

RM2.35 (+RM0.00)

RM2.15 (+RM0.00)

February 27 – March 3, 2021

RM2.05 (+RM0.05)

RM2.35 (+RM0.05)

RM2.15 (+RM0.00)

February 20 – February 26, 2021

RM2.00 (+RM0.04)

RM2.30 (+RM0.04)

RM2.15 (+RM0.00)

February 13 – February 19, 2021

RM1.96 (+RM0.03)

RM2.26 (+RM0.03)

RM2.15 (+RM0.04)

February 6 – February 12, 2021

RM1.93 (+RM0.03)

RM2.23 (+RM0.03)

RM2.11 (+RM0.04)

January 30 – February 5, 2021

RM1.90 (+RM0.00)

RM2.20 (+RM0.00)

RM2.07 (-RM0.02)

January 23 – January 29, 2021

RM1.90 (+RM0.01)

RM2.20 (+RM0.01)

RM2.09 (+RM0.04)

January 16 – January 22, 2021

RM1.89 (+RM0.05)

RM2.19 (+RM0.05)

RM2.05 (+RM0.03)

January 9 – January 15, 2021

RM1.84 (+RM0.00)

RM2.14 (+RM0.00)

RM2.02 (+RM0.01)

January 2 – January 8, 2021

RM1.84 (+RM0.04)

RM2.14 (+RM0.04)

RM2.01 (+RM0.03)

December 26 – January 1, 2021

RM1.80 (+RM0.02)

RM2.10 (+RM0.02)

RM1.98 (+RM0.02)

December 19 – December 25, 2020

RM1.78 (+RM0.05)

RM 2.08 (+RM0.05)

RM1.96 (+RM0.03)

December 12 – December 18, 2020

RM1.73

(+RM0.03)

RM2.03

(+RM0.03)

RM1.93

(+RM0.03)

December 5 – December 11, 2020

RM1.70

(+RM0.03)

RM2.00

(+RM0.03)

RM1.90

(+RM0.05)

November 28 – December 4, 2020

RM1.67

(+RM0.03)

RM1.97

(+RM0.03)

RM1.85

(+RM0.04)

November 21 – November 27, 2020

RM1.64

(+RM0.02)

RM1.94

(+RM0.02)

RM1.81

(+RM0.07)

November 14 – November 20, 2020

RM1.62

(+RM0.01)

RM1.92

(+RM0.01)

RM1.74

(+RM0.06)

November 7 – November 13, 2020

RM1.61

(-RM0.03)

RM1.91

(-RM0.03)

RM1.68

(-RM0.06)

October 31 – November 6, 2020

RM1.64 (RM0)

RM1.94 (RM0)

RM1.74 (RM0)

October 24 – October 30, 2020

RM1.64

(-RM0.04)

RM1.94

(-RM0.04)

RM1.74 (RM0)

October 17 – October 23, 2020

RM1.68 (+RM0.01)

RM1.98 (+RM0.01)

RM1.74 (+RM0.05)

October 10 – October 16, 2020

RM1.67

(-RM0.04)

RM1.97

(-RM0.04)

RM1.69

(-RM0.01)

October 3 – October 9, 2020

RM1.71

(+RM0.03)

RM2.01

(+RM0.03)

RM1.70

(-RM0.01)

September 26 – October 2, 2020

RM1.68

(+RM0.05)

RM1.98

(+RM0.05)

RM1.71

(+RM0.04)

September 19 – September 25, 2020

RM1.63

(-RM0.03)

RM1.93

(-RM0.03)

RM1.67

(-RM0.05)

September 12 – September 18, 2020

RM1.66

(-RM0.05)

RM1.96

(-RM0.05)

RM1.72

(-RM0.06)

September 5 – September 11, 2020

RM1.71

(-RM0.01)

RM2.01

(-RM0.01)

RM1.78 (RM0)

August 29 – September 4, 2020

RM1.72

(+RM0.01)

RM2.02

(+RM0.01)

RM1.78

(-RM0.02)

August 22 – August 28, 2020

RM1.71

(+RM0.03)

RM2.01

(+RM0.03)

RM1.80

(RM-0.02)

August 15 – August 21, 2020

RM1.68

(+RM0.05)

RM1.98

(+RM0.05)

RM1.82

(+RM0.03)

August 8 – August 14, 2020

RM1.63

(-RM0.05)

RM1.93

(-RM0.05)

RM1.79

(-RM0.04)

August 1 – August 7, 2020

RM1.68 (RM0)

RM1.98 (RM0)

RM1.83

(+RM0.01)

July 25 – July 31, 2020

RM1.68

(-RM0.04)

RM1.98

(-RM0.04)

RM1.82

(-RM0.05)

July 18 – July 24, 2020

RM1.72 (RM0)

RM2.02 (RM0)

RM1.87 (RM0)

July 11 – July 17, 2020

RM1.72

(+RM0.07)

RM2.02

(+RM0.07)

RM1.87

(-RM0.03)

July 4 – July 10, 2020

RM1.65

(-RM0.04)

RM1.95

(-RM0.04)

RM1.84

(-RM0.02)

June 27 – July 3, 2020

RM1.69 (+RM0.10)

RM1.99 (+RM0.10)

RM1.86 (+RM0.09)

June 20 – June 26, 2020

RM1.59 (+RM0.03)

RM1.89 (+RM0.03)

RM1.77 (+RM0.04)

June 13 – June 19, 2020

RM1.56 (+RM0.08)

RM1.86 (+RM0.08)

RM1.73 (+RM0.10)

June 6 – June 12, 2020

RM1.48 (+RM0.05)

RM1.78 (+RM0.05)

RM1.63 (+RM0.02)

May 30 – June 5, 2020

RM1.43 (+RM0.05)

RM1.73 (+RM0.05)

RM1.61 (+RM0.10)

May 23 – May 29, 2020

RM1.38 (+RM0.07)

RM1.68 (+RM0.07)

RM1.51 (+RM0.06)

May 16 – May 22, 2020

RM1.31 (+RM0.06)

RM1.61 (+RM0.06)

RM1.45 (+RM0.05)

May 9 – May 15, 2020

RM1.25 (RM0)

RM1.55 (RM0)

RM1.40 (RM0)

May 2 – May 8, 2020

RM1.25 (RM0)

RM1.55 (RM0)

RM1.40 (RM0)

April 25 – May 1, 2020

RM1.25 (RM0)

RM1.55 (RM0)

RM1.40

(-RM0.03)

April 18 – April 24, 2020

RM1.25 (RM0)

RM1.55 (RM0)

RM1.43

(-RM0.03)

April 11 – April 17, 2020

RM1.25

(-RM0.05)

RM1.55

(-RM0.05)

RM1.46

(-RM0.12)

April 4 – April 10, 2020

RM1.30

(-RM0.08)

RM1.60

(-RM0.08)

RM1.58

(-RM0.10)

March 28 – April 3, 2020

RM1.38

(-RM0.06)

RM1.68

(-RM0.06)

RM1.68

(-RM0.07)

March 21 – March 27, 2020

RM1.44

(-RM0.38)

RM1.74

(-RM0.36)

RM1.75

(-RM0.12)

March 14 – March 20, 2020

RM1.82

(-RM0.07)

RM2.10

(-RM0.09)

RM1.87

(-RM0.09)

March 7 – March 13, 2020

RM1.89

(-RM0.19)

RM2.19

(-RM0.21)

RM1.96

(-RM0.17)

February 29 – March 6, 2020

RM2.08 (RM0)

RM2.40

(+RM0.02)

RM2.13

(-RM0.01)

February 22 – February 28, 2020

RM2.08

(+RM0.02)

RM2.38

(+RM0.02)

RM2.14 (RM0)

February 15 – February 21, 2020

RM2.06

(+RM0.02)

RM2.36

(+RM0.02)

RM2.14

(+RM0.06)

February 8 – February 14, 2020

RM2.04

(-RM0.04)

RM2.34

(-RM0.07)

RM2.08

(-RM0.10)

February 1 – February 7, 2020

RM2.08 (RM0)

RM2.41

(-RM0.08)

RM2.18 (RM0)

January 25 – January 31, 2020

RM2.08 (RM0)

RM2.49

(-RM0.04)

RM2.18 (RM0)

January 18 – January 24, 2020

RM2.08 (RM0)

RM2.53

(-RM0.09)

RM2.18 (RM0)

January 11 – January 17, 2020

RM2.08 (RM0)

RM2.62

(-RM0.03)

RM2.18 (RM0)

January 4 – January 10, 2020

RM2.08 (RM0)

RM2.65 (+RM0.02)

RM2.18 (RM0)

December 28 – January 3, 2020

RM2.08 (RM0)

RM2.63 (+RM0.05)

RM 2.18 (RM0)

Haziq Asyraf
A self-proclaimed foodie and gamer whose passion for food and games has recently extended to cars.


Search

Home
Lifestyle
Audi’s e-tron Is A Look Into The Brand’s Electrified Future

By

carsomeadministrator

    Audi’s first fully electric production model takes the form in the new e-tron. The e-tron showcases the brand’s technological glimpse into the future via an all-electric SUV. Whether it’s standing still or on the move, the e-tron is expressive in the sill area, electric tailboard and the light grey Singleframe at the front. Underneath, the most important part of the car takes place.

    The e-tron is powered by two powerful electric motors that are CO2-neutral and virtually silent. A new generation of the quattro drive, the electric all-wheel drive, ensures excellent traction and dynamics. It ensures the continuous and variable regulation of the ideal distribution of drive torque between the two axles – within a fraction of a second.

    The sporty character and transverse dynamics is thanks to the low and central position of which the battery system is installed. Packed with a 95 kWh battery pack, it provides the e-tron a range that is suitable for long distances. While the figure isn’t disclosed yet, estimates put it at about 400 km. Audi also mentions that the battery can be recharged to 80 per cent in 30 minutes using a 150 kW charger.

    Recuperation of energy from the electric motors is during far more than 90 per cent of all decelerations. It taps its maximum recuperation potential in combination with the integrated electrohydraulic brake control system. This makes Audi the world’s first carmaker to use such a system in an electrically powered series production vehicle.

    In line with the aerodynamic efficiency, one of the noticeable highlights are the world’s first optional virtual exterior mirrors in a production model. They not only reduce aerodynamic drag, but also take digitalisation to a new level.

    A vehicle of the future needs to be well connected. And the e-tron truly is. From navigation with the e-tron route planner, which displays the appropriate route with the required charging points, automated billing at the charging station, and all the way to remote control via smartphone, there’s never a need to worry about power.

    Further equipped with the high-end media centre MMI navigation plus including LTE Advanced and a Wi-Fi hotspot as standard, the car has standard efficiency assist that promotes an economic driving style by displaying predictive information and performing automatic recuperation.

TL:DR

Click here
 to check out Audi's latest Q3!

Sell your car through Carsome and sit back and relax to fast, fair and free car selling the 21st century way!

Tags
Cars
Lifestyle

carsomeadministrator

LEAVE A REPLY
Cancel reply

Comment:

Please enter your comment!

Name:*

Please enter your name here

Email:*

You have entered an incorrect email address!

Please enter your email address here

Website:

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Δ