2021 (I20) BMW iX SUV Launched In Malaysia – 4 Variants, From RM419k

BMW Malaysia has officially launched the
all-electric (BEV) BMW iX SUV
, having
previously teased the model
 earlier in the year, retailing from RM419k. The BMW iX now joins the
BMW i3
 and
i8
 as the third BMW i model on sale in Malaysia.

2021 BMW iX SUV Launched In Malaysia

Alongside, BMW Malaysia has announced the entry of three other all-electric ‘I’ models, namely the
iX3
,
i4 GranCoupe
, and the iX xDrive50 (the top-spec iX model).

Hans de Visser, Managing Director of BMW Group Malaysia added, “This is a milestone for the BMW Group, even more so for us at BMW Group Malaysia. We have been in the driver’s seat in accelerating innovation, awareness on new and sustainable technology for the automotive industry, shaping the infrastructure for premium electrified vehicles in Malaysia since 2015. Our success in Malaysia today is cemented by our position as the leader in electrified mobility here, which is underlined by an impressive delivery of over 2,200 units of electrified vehicles last year alone.”

The BMW iX xDrive40 is offered in 4 variants at the following prices:

Variant

Price

BMW iX xDrive40

RM419,630

BMW iX xDrive40 with Power Package

RM424,230

BMW iX xDrive40 Sport

RM472,630

BMW iX xDrive40 Sport with Power Package

RM477,230

The iX xDrive40 essentially includes the “Sport Package” which carries a retail price of RM53,000 which adds 22-inch BiColor wheels, Sport brakes with brake callipers in blue, BMW Laserlight system, a panoramic roof, 18-speaker Harman Kardon sound system, and the following active safety systems:

Parking Assistant Plus with Reversing Assist, Active Park

Distance Control (PDC) and Surround View Camera

Driving Assistant Professional with Steering and Lane Control Assistant

Speed Limit Assist and Evasion Assistant

Tyre Pressure Monitoring System

The Power Package refers to the addition of a BMW i Wallbox and BMW i Public Charging Cable. Additionally, owners of the BMW iX can also opt for the BMW 5-Year
Extended Warranty
 and 6-Year Service package at a special rate of RM16,170.

The BMW iX is inspired by BMW's
Vision iNext Concept car
, it was officially unveiled in November 2020 and is the flagship model of the BMW i range. The BMW iX is based on BMW’s CLAR Platform which features the company’s 5th-Generation BMW eDrive technology.

Powering the iX is two current-excited synchronous motors – one on each axle, with an integrated drive unit consisting of electric motor, power electronics, charging technology and high-voltage battery - delivering a total of 326hp and 630Nm. The iX is claimed to complete the 0-100km/h sprint in 6.1 seconds onto a top speed of 200km/h.

The iX is offered with a 76.6 kWh (gross capacity) lithium-ion battery, which gives the iX a driving range of up to 425km (WLTP) on a single charge. Speaking of charging – the iX is optimised for High-Power DC Charging (HPC) of 150kW and AC charging of up to 11kW.

The BMW iX is shaped with minimal but characteristic lines and proportions.  Crucial styling highlights of the iX include the slimmest headlamps ever built by BMW, and the latest-generation, upright double kidney grille. In xDrive40 form, the iX is supplied with 21-inch BiColor wheels.  The overall roofline is sleeker than a BMW X3, however, the length and width of the iX are similar to a BMW X5.

On the inside, a massive 14.9-inch curved display stretches from the driver's cluster all the way to the centre to make space for a central screen, forming the main focal point of the interior. This massive unbroken layout lends a sense of fluidity and cohesion to the cabin. The floating setup standing off from the dashboard aims to keep things simplistic while improving the feeling of interior space.

Another crucial highlight is the appointment of real wood on the centre console and a clear “faceted” glass control knob (supplied with Sport package) for the car’s infotainment system.

In terms of safety, the iX is supplied as standard with 6-airbags and an array of passive safety systems that include Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), including Dynamic Traction Control (DTC), Cornering Brake Control (CBC), Automatic Stability Control (ASC), Dynamic Brake Control (DBC), Electronic Differential Lock Control (EDLC) and Antilock Braking System (ABS) with Brake Assist.

The First-Ever BMW iX xDrive40 is now available for pre-booking on the BMW Shop Online platform at a fee of RM 5,000. Alternatively, customers can opt for the Balloon Financing Plan from BMW Group Financial Services Malaysia. The BMW iX xDrive40 and BMW iX xDrive40 Sport can be owned with a monthly installment plan starting from RM 4,888.00 and RM 5,478.00 respectively (based on estimates of an 80% loan on a five-year tenure).

Separately, customers interested in the other three BMW i models (iX3,
 i4 GranCoupe
, and the iX xDrive50) can register their interest on the official BMW website.

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2015 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class CLS 400 Launched In Malaysia, From RM599k

Previewed just last week at an exclusive
‘Meet & Greet’ event with the Mercedes-AMG F1 drivers
,
Mercedes-Benz
 Malaysia (MBM) has finally announced prices for its new, 2015
CLS-Class
. Available in just one variant that you’ll find in showrooms, the new CLS 400 demands
RM598,888
.
So what’s new?
POWERTRAIN:
 Updated to feature a new look and newer tech, the CLS-Class also benefits from a new powertrain. Gone is the 306hp 3.5-litre naturally-aspirated V6, as the new CLS 400 adopts a similar 3.0-litre V6 bi-turbo engine to what’s available in the current E-Class E 400 here, which delivers 333hp and 480Nm of torque.
Transmission is also straight off the E 400, being the 7G-Tronic seven-speed torque converter automatic. Sorry, no 9G-Tronic yet, Malaysia.
DESIGN:
 Dressed up in an AMG Line exterior package, the CLS 400 gains an AMG-specific front bumper, seven-spoke AMG alloy wheels, chrome front lip, twin trapezoidal exhausts, AMG rear bumper and more.
To the CLS itself, and refreshment is visible via the new MULTIBEAM LED headlamps, revised smoked LED taillights, and a shiny new diamond-grille design like its junior, the CLA-Class.
MULTIBEAM LED:
The new headlights on the CLS 400 are a bit more special than they may first appear. Featuring 24 individually-controlled LEDS, each independently controllable from the other, the MULTIBEAM LED headlights are controlled by a camera and a system located just behind the front windshield – sensors make decisions at a rate of 100 times a second to determine the best angle and luminosity of the headlights.
What’s really cool about the headlights are that with each LED being individually controlled, each LED is also dimmable in a total of 255 stages.
INTERIOR DESIGN:
 The cabin of the CLS 400 is also dressed in an AMG Line Plus package etc. which lines this up to look pretty much like the interior of the E 400 we know. Best of all however, is that there’s a very pretty and new three-spoke steering wheel which features new control buttons on it, as well as a new aesthetic design.
Infotainment is courtesy COMAND Online system, which again, we’ve seen before in the E 400: eight-inch free-standing display screen, rotary control dial on the center console etc.
Premium audio isn’t exempt from the CLS 400, with there being a Harmon Kardon Logic 7® technology arrangement, which delivers a 5.1 multi-channel, 360-degree sound experience. Oh, and let’s not forget the 14 high-performance speakers. All as standard kit.
SAFETY:
 On a RM599k vehicle, you can bet on MBM latching on its latest and greatest kit to the CLS. Here’s a quick look at what’s included (as standard):
COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST PLUS
DISTRONIC PLUS with Steering Assist and Stop&Go Pilot
BAS PLUS with Cross-Traffic Assist
PRE-SAFE® Brake with pedestrian detection
PRE-SAFE® PLUS
Active Blind Spot Assist
Active Lane Keeping Assist
Traffic Sign Assist
Active Parking Assist with PARKTRONIC including parking in end-on spaces.


The Lamborghini Huracán Sterrato Concept Looks Right For The Dakar Rally

The Bolognese Boys are back at it again, and straight from Sant'Agata comes a Lamborghini concept that begs the question - has the world run out of ideas for concepts? It's the Huracán Sterrato, effectively a jacked-up, beefed-up version of a Huracán EVO that looks fit to rocket over dunes and smash along rocky pathways, its naturally-aspirated 5.2-litre V10 screaming all the way.
The key differences in metrics are a ride height that's bolstered by 47 mm, a track that's 30 mm wider at either axle, 20-inch wheels with balloon tyres, an approach angle that's improved by 1% and a departure angle that has improved by 6.7%. Lamborghini says that they're drawing on their experience with the Urus SUV when it comes to developing an off-road vehicle, but that's more marketing than anything else.
In terms of the actual hardware additions, it comes in the form of generic underbody armour and reinforcements along the bodywork, along with aluminium reinforcements integrated within the frame and rear skid plate. Stone deflection and protection around the intakes and high-tech mudguards help to keep dirt from gunking up the moving components, while LED light bars and bumper mounted spotlights help to light the way.
On the inside the Sterrato is largely the same, though it features a lightweight titanium roll cage, four-point harnesses, and new carbon bi-shell sport seats along with aluminium floor panels for a true off-road racer feel. The only thing left is to replace the windscreen with a plexiglass or a wire mesh and send the driver off with tear-off visor strips to keep his vision clear and free.
Most surprising of all is that there is precedent for this kind of model. Back in the 1970s, a madman by the name of Bob Wallace modified a Lamborghini Jarama and Urraco to compete in the rallies of their respective namesakes of the time. They were fit for covering great distances quickly on desert surfaces, although this feels more anecdotal than inspirational.


Proton Plans To Re-Enter Chile’s Car Market, Says Malaysian Envoy

Proton
 Holdings Berhad is slated to re-enter the Chilean market as soon as December 2015, according to the Malaysia Ambassador to Chile, Datuk Mohammad Rameez Yahaya, as Bernama writes.
They are said to be planning the move which involves three models - the
Saga
,
Preve
, and
Exora
 - and would be the first time since the 1990s that Proton had an active presence in the South American country.
The trio of models would arrive in Chile as test cars at first, and those are scheduled to be followed up with a full launch in April 2016 by the local distributor there, Andes Motor.

"I had met Andes Motor General Manager, Jorge Greene, and Commercial Manager, Maximiliano, last Thursday to discuss the matter. The company signed a distributor agreement with Proton and will receive its first three models in December," he was quoted as saying via Facebook.
The Ambassador says Andes Motor are expected to move forward with a minimum import of 500 units of Proton cars each year for the next five years.
He added that this new exchange between both markets would amount to US$6 million per year. Three units have so far left Port Klang and are expected to arrive in Chile next month, following tests and approval procedures.
Back in April, Christian Rehren, Chile’s Ambassador to Malaysia, spoke of the possibility that Proton could re-enter the Chilean market this year as the signing of the Malaysian-Chile Free Trade Agreement had taken place.


RUMOUR: Next-Gen Honda CR-Z  To Go Turbo, Get Debut By 2017?

Now here’s an interesting rumour: How would you fancy a
Honda CR-Z
 turbo hybrid? Well, it’s nothing official at the moment, but given
Honda
’s momentum of late (ever since it rolled back a V-TEC turbo), we wouldn’t be too surprised if it were all true.

Our friends over at
Motoring.com.au
 have just revealed an inside-scoop from within Honda’s sacred R&D centre in Tochigi that suggests the aging CR-Z hybrid may be sorted out with a 1.5-litre VTEC turbo engine, hybrid power i-DCD powertrain, an eight-speed auto transmission and up to 200hp, or more, from it all. Yikes…

Motoring has apparently spoken to a source “very close to Honda” who said that given a current demand for more ‘hot’ cars from the likes of Honda America, Honda has turned its attention to the CR-Z to possibly deliver the goods.

The source continued to add that a “big comeback” for the CR-Z is on the cards for 2017, and that “the new coupe will be a force to reckon with.”

To keep the new model cost effective for Honda, it’s expected that the coming CR-Z will share platforms with its Civic cousin, which will grow the sports hybrid coupe up by a size or two, but still keep it significantly smaller than a Civic.

As mentioned, a new 1.5-litre VTEC turbo engine is likely to be featured, paired with Honda’s i-DCD hybrid powertrain and an eight-speed automatic transmission. A 2.0-litre turbo model has also been mentioned.

However, Motoring also disclosed that the CR-Z may in turn grow out of its current role to become a "high-performance coupe of the next-gen US-spec Civic." How all of this actually pans out, we'll have to wait and see.

 But for now, come on, Honda. Do it!


For Every 3 Purchases Of Shell Helix Ultra Engine Oil, You Get The Fourth Pack Free

Malaysian motorists have become the first in the world to be offered the new Shell Advantage and Rewards (SHARE) loyalty programme for Shell Helix engine lubricants.
This first-of-its-kind programme seeks to reward not only the end user, but also Shell’s trade partners that facilitated in the sale of Helix engine oils, namely retailers, distributors, and workshop owners.
Motorists who purchase any of Shell Helix lubricants can access the various perks of the SHARE programme by registering online via
www.shell.com.my/share
. Rewards and benefits on offer include Lazada vouchers, oil change reminders, and seasonal promotions.
Consumers of the range-topping Helix Ultra oils enjoy a buy-3-free-1 offer spread over a period of two years. The offer is valid with all Shell Helix partner workshops and is tracked by the user’s online registration details.
Signing up for the SHARE programme is executed in three simple steps:
1. Visit
www.shell.com.my/share
, or scan a QR code printed on the SHARE poster as seen below available in all partner workshops.
2. Peel the top right edge corner of the engine oil can label to obtain a 12-digit code to be keyed in for the registration process.
3. Complete your personal details in the registration form.
To qualify for the free fourth pack of oil, users are required to sign up with the SHARE and key in the 12-digit code printed on the oil pack after every purchase and top-up of the oil at a Shell Helix partner workshop.
For the workshops, Shell has developed a dedicated SHARE mobile app which they can use to engage and retain customers, manage inventories, and at the same time collect points for various dealer incentives.
Besides engaging and rewarding both consumer and trade partners, the most important benefit of the SHARE programme is perhaps the feeling of assurance. By keying in the 12-digit pin code on the oil pack and receiving an acknowledgment from the SHARE system, consumers can then be assured that their cars are being lubricated by genuine Shell Helix oils.


2020 Audi RS7 Sportback Launched - Because Wagons Aren’t For Everyone

Wagon’s aren’t for everyone (but why not??), and thus Audi conceived of the A6/A7 dichotomy. Hence, we have the 2020 Audi RS7 Sportback to counter the RS6 Avant. What you lose in SUV-rivalling boot space, you gain in a coupe-like sloping roofline. Pick your poison.

Personally, the wagon has my vote, but you can’t deny how much 2020 Audi RS7 Sportback’s low-slung silhouette adds to its delicious posterior. The A7 was always meant to look better than the A6, sure, much like the CLS and E-Class from the Mercedes-Benz camp, but we reckon this duo from Ingolstadt are the best looking in their class.

With a starting price of RM988,544,
 the 2020 Audi RS7 Avant enters the Malaysian market at a slight premium over the new RS6, and is oddly making you trade more money for less practicality because, apart from their divergent approaches in roofline, both cars are identical. Don’t get me wrong, the RS7’s roof-hinged boot does offer a pretty vast 535-litres of load-lugging potential, but you definitely won’t be bringing your favourite dog(s) with you on road trips.

From the front, the RS7 is indistinguishable from the RS6, which means it looks downright tremendous. It even wears the same V-pattern 5-spoke wheels that measure 22-inches in diameter and fitted with 285/30 tyres - Pirellis as pictured.

Mechanically, you won’t find a single point of differentiation. If you’re already familiar with the C8 RS6, you’d figure this means a 4.0-litre V8 petrol engine, twin-turbocharged to 600hp and 800Nm, and you’d be entirely correct. The drivetrain also features a 48-volt mild-hybrid system that makes use of a 12kW electric generator that’s used in lieu of a conventional starter motor, giving the car some on-demand boost while improving fuel economy.

Drive is funnelled through an 8-speed automatic transmission before being split up by Audi’s quattro all-wheel drive system. The RS7’s coupe shape doesn’t help it at the scales, weighing in just 10kg lighter than the RS6, meaning it too is a heavy 2-tonne machine. That said, the bi-turbo V8 and AWD with locking centre differential can launch the RS7 to 100km/h from a standstill in just 3.6 seconds, top speed is limited to 280km/h - again, identical to the RS6.

The 2020 Audi RS7 does manage to shame the RS6 with carbon fibre exterior accents that its wagon counterpart misses out on. Inside, however, both cars are equipped equally with quad-zone climate control, Audi Sport electric seats that are heated and ventilated, aluminium trim flourishes, Valcona leather upholstery, and ambient lighting throughout.

A panoramic roof is optional, as is the Dynamic Package Plus, which unlocks the car’s true top speed of 305km/h. Fortunately, the RS Sports exhaust system and RS Sports suspension are both standard features for the Malaysian market.

Audi’s latest MMI infotainment system is equipped here, too, mated to the Virtual Cockpit digital instrument cluster with in-built navigation. Optional on the RS6 is the Bang & Olufsen premium audio system with 3D sound, but here on the RS7 there’s no box to tick.

Safety kit is another area where both cars mirror each other perfectly, featuring Audi Pre Sense for both the front and rear with emergency braking, Lane Change Assist, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Park Assist, and a 360-degree camera system.


Geneva 2019: This Rear Wheel Drive Honda e Has 15,000 Interested Fans Signed up

For a car that is still technically a concept, the Honda e has certainly garnered a lot of interest. Slightly over a week since Honda Europe began accepting registrations of interest for its upcoming electric hatchback and 15,000 people have signed up.
Of course, registration of interests are not the same as someone paying money for a deposit but it’s still a good indication of the level of interest that consumers have for a car.
Honda says the car seen shown at the ongoing 2019 Geneva Motor Show is still a prototype but it might as well have been a production car. It already has wipers, turn signal stalks, parking sensors, and regulation compliant rear reflectors installed.
The highlight of the Honda e is of course its retro styling that clearly reminds us of the original Honda Civic.
The design was first presented as the
Urban EV Concept
(above) at the 2017 Frankfurt Auto Show and it’s quite impressive that the concept car’s design was able to mature into a near production car almost unchanged.
Even the illuminated Honda logo is retained (minus the social media style status update display, thankfully), as are the video cameras installed in place of conventional side mirrors, and pop out door handles.
Inside, the cabin is a mix of retro and digital age elements. A wide screen display dominates the cabin and buttons are kept at a minimum, but the two-spoke steering wheel, wood trim, and placement of air-conditioning controls hark back to the simplicity of the original Civic.
Enthusiasts will be pleased to know that the Honda e is rear wheel drive, and with the next generation BMW 1 Series switching to front wheel drive, the Honda e will fill the void of being the only rear wheel drive hatchback on sale.
Honda intends to keep the car affordable and that means that the battery capacity is rather small, with an electric driving range of just 200 km, positioning it as a city commuter car. When charged with a suitably equipped fast charger, the battery can be charged to 80 percent in 30 minutes.
A production version of the Honda e will be revealed later this year, and only then will the order books be opened. At the moment, the Honda e is limited only to Europe. It’s not Honda’s first production electric vehicle (that honour goes to the Clarity Electric) but it’s the first for a Honda in Europe.
And lastly for you ‘80s era kids, if you are wondering why didn’t Honda named the car as the famous Street Fighter video game character E. Honda, that’s because the intellectual property rights to E. Honda is owned by the game creator Capcom.
By transposing E. Honda's name into Honda e, and adopting the original Civic’s styling – which is familiar to anyone who grew up playing Street Fighter – it’s clear that many in the Honda e's development team were born in the '80s, and it's also very clear which demographics the Honda e is aimed at.


Renault, Nissan and Mitsubishi Alliance Sells 10.6-Million Cars In 2017

The Renault, Nissan, and Mitsubishi (RNM) alliance have capped off a solid year of sales, with 10,608,366 vehicles delivered globally in 2017, a growth of 6.5 percent.
Carlos Ghosn, chairman and chief executive officer of Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi said, “With more than 10.6 million passenger cars and light commercial vehicles sold in 2017, Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi has become the number-one automotive group worldwide. This evolution reflects the breadth and depth of our model range, our global market presence and the customer appeal of our vehicle technologies.”
The RNM alliance sold cars in nearly 200 markets across ten brands, namely Renault, Nissan, Mitsubishi Motors, Dacia, Renault Samsung Motors, Alpine, Lada, Infiniti, Venucia, and Datsun.
Renault’s sales were up 8.5 percent to 3,761,634 units in 2017. Nissan managed 5,816,278 vehicles worldwide, up 4.6 percent, buoyed by growth in China and U.S.A of 1.9 percent and 12.2 percent respectively. Nissan’s premium brand Infiniti, sold 246,492 vehicles in 2017, an increase of 7 percent from the previous year.
In its first full-year as a member of the alliance, Mitsubishi sold 1,030,454 vehicles in 2017, up 10 percent from 2016. The increase in volume was led by China, which rose by 56 percent, to 129,160 units. China became Mitsubishi Motors’ largest market thanks to strong demand for the locally produced Outlander. The
Xpander MPV
 has been a catalyst for growth in the ASEAN market, contributing to an overall increase of 17 percent to 242,224 units in 2017.
The RNM alliance remains the global leader for 100% electric passenger cars and light commercial electric vehicles, having sold 91,000 EVs in 2017, up 11 percent from 2016. The
second-generation Nissan Leaf
, introduced last year, has received over 40,000 orders globally, performing strongly in Japan, U.S.A, and Europe.
The Leaf remains the world’s best-selling EV, with more than 300,000 vehicles sold since its launch in December 2010. The Renault Zoe, on the other hand, was the best-selling EV in Europe, with sales growth of 44 percent in 2017.
China is the RNM’s biggest market with 1,719,815 units delivered, a growth of 6.2 percent, followed by U.S.A and France with 1,697,149 (up 9.8 percent) and 759,598 (up 29.8 percent) units sold respectively.
France, Russia, and Germany were Renault’s three biggest markets, with 673,852, 448,270, and 228,046 units delivered respectively. Nissan performed best in the U.S.A, followed by China and it's home country of Japan, with 1,593,464, 1,519,714, and 590,905 units respectively. Likewise, the top-three markets for Mitsubishi were China with 129,160 units, followed by U.S.A and Japan with 103,685, and 91,630 units respectively.
As part of Alliance 2022 strategic plan, RNM is forecasting that its annual synergies will exceed EUR10-billion by the end of 2022. In addition, 12 new zero-emission electric vehicles and 40 vehicles with autonomous drive technology will be launched.
RNM expects the introduction of new models and new technologies to lift the combined annual sales of the alliance, to more than 14 million units by the end of 2022.


Honda City vs Proton X50 vs Perodua Ativa vs Toyota Vios

Malaysians are really spoilt for choice these days when it comes to purchasing a value-for-money vehicle. Prices, quality, and technology are all starting to be equivalent between national and non-national vehicles under the RM85,000 bracket.

The rise, refinement, and affordability of local SUVs have also given buyers another avenue when looking for good quality and affordable vehicles, so much so that even traditional non-national sedan fans are cross-shopping and peeking into the specs of these locally produced SUVs and considering them as a viable option.

From our observations on social media, car buyers are starting to shortlist the
Perodua Ativa
,
Proton X50
,
Honda City
, and
Toyota Vios
 as perennial choices for a new car. What was once deemed an unconventional bunch is now becoming a prevalent group as buyers are looking for the most value in vehicles around the RM85k mark. At this price point, buyers will not have to pick the base spec for any of the cars but stating the obvious, the Perodua Ativa will surely save you the most money as the top of the range 2021 Perodua Ativa is only priced at RM72k.

To help with this conundrum, we thought we would list down some of the key specifications of these cars in the hope that it'll make it easier for buyers to cross-shop:

Performance

Model

      Hp/Nm

Proton X50 1.5T Executive

148/226

Perodua Ativa AV

97/150

Honda City 1.5 LE

119/145

Toyota Vios 1.5 E (AT)

106/140

There's just no two ways about it, the Proton X50 is the most powerful out of the bunch. Considering that the Perodua Ativa only has a 1.0-litre turbocharged engine, it has quite an impressive performance figure from such a small engine. Around town, the Perodua will probably feel more sprightly than the Honda City and the Toyota Vios due to the nature of its low-down torque availability.

But as an all-rounder, the higher horse-powered 2020 Honda City will be better for city and highway use compared to the Ativa.

Fuel Economy

Model

Claimed Fuel Consumption (km/l)

Proton X50 1.5T Executive

15.6 km/l

Perodua Ativa AV

18.9 km/l

Honda City 1.5 LE

18.5 km/l

Toyota Vios 1.5 E (AT)

N/A

We should all take claimed fuel consumption figures with a pinch of salt because fuel economy depends on the way you drive the vehicle. But saying that, a claimed fuel consumption figure is a good indicator of what is achievable and according to our findings it does seem that the Perodua Ativa is the best at this game. It's no surprise really because it has a small engine, but what is surprising is how close the Honda City's figures are to the Ativa's.

We've searched high and low for the Vios' claimed fuel consumption figure, but so far we can't find any, but according to tests carried out by the media, they generally sit somewhere near the 16-17km/l mark.

Dimensions

Model

Dimensions (Length/Width in mm)

Boot space (litres)

Proton X50 1.5 T Executive

4,330/1,800

330

Perodua Ativa AV

4,065/1,710

369

Honda City 1.5 LE

4,553/1,748

519

Toyota Vios 1.5 E (AT)

4,425/1,730

506

Dimension wise, the Perodua Ativa is definitely the smallest out of the lot, whereas the rest of the pack have comparable dimensions. Due to Honda's track record of being able to make a lot of space from a small cabin, the Honda City will feel like the most spacious car out of the bunch.

What's shocking is the small boot space of the Proton X50 especially when a smaller car like the Ativa can provide more. Since the Honda City is the longest out of the four, it's also no surprise that they have the biggest boot space.

Safety

Model

Airbag

Active safety

ASEAN NCAP RATING

Proton X50 1.5 T Executive

4

ABS, ESC

5 STAR

Perodua Ativa AV

6

ABS, ESC

5 STAR

Honda City 1.5 LE

4

ABS, ESC

5 STAR

Toyota Vios 1.5 E (AT)

7

ABS, ESC

5 STAR

As far as active safety goes, all of the cars have at least Anti Lock Braking System and Electronic Stability Control. Just as we thought that the Ativa's airbag count is impressive coming in with six airbags, the 2021 Toyota Vios trumps it by having seven.

However, there's just no way to take the limelight out of the Ativa AV as it comes with a host of advanced safety tech (ASA 3.0) including pre-collision warning (PCW), pre-collision braking (AEB), front departure alert (FDA), and pedal misoperation control (PMC). To add to its already impressive list of safety features, the Ativa AV also has Level 2 autonomous features.

To get these in the Proton X50 and Honda City you would need to buy the highest spec models (2020 Proton X50 1.5 TGDi Flagship &
2021 Honda City 1.5L RS e:HEV
) but the Toyota Vios E variant does come with some impressive safety features including pre-collision warnings systems, lane departure alert, and blind-spot monitoring.

Price and value

Model

Price

Proton X50 1.5T Executive

 RM84,800

Perodua Ativa AV

RM72,000

Honda City 1.5 L E

RM81,664

Toyota Vios 1.5 E (AT)

RM82,593

At the end of the day, all four cars are fine machines. They all have a certain level of refinement and comfort that everybody can appreciate. To say one is better than the other would be an injustice because it all depends on what your needs are in a car.

If you love power, go for the Proton, if you need space, go for the Honda, If you want better than average safety features go for the Toyota and if budget trumps size then go for the Ativa. All four vehicles can potentially make a buyer happy but if value is of the highest priority and space is of no concern, then there's no denying that the cheaper Perodua Ativa is the best.

Personally, my heart says go for the Proton as I'm not a small-sized sedan fan and I'm a horsepower freak, but my head tells me that the Ativa is probably the best value for money choice that will keep my home accountant happy. Even then, I would go for the mid-spec Ativa (Ativa H) as I can't really see myself using the ASA 3.0 advanced features.

What about you?

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Audi produces one-off A8L extended

Money talks. For one specific Audi customer in Europe, the A8L simply wasn’t long enough nor spacious enough for his needs. Thanks to the wonders of aluminium extrusion and flexible modular platforms, Audi was able to stretch the A8L to accommodate the customer’s requests.
The wheelbase has been increased by 1.09 metres in the process, which also adds to the overall length on the whole. To maintain chassis rigidity, Audi made use of aluminium profiled tubes and cross-braces in the roof; the result is a vehicle that is almost on par with the A8L in terms of torsional strength. There are 3 pairs of doors in total, each accessing a separate row.
Unlike your standard limousine, this special model has all 6 seats facing the direction of travel. In the run-of-the-mill American limos, usually the second row will be facing rearwards to allow occupants to talk to each other. The roof is replaced by a 2.4 metre long glass panel, with individual sunblinds for each row. Each row also receives electric seats and the rearmost row features a rear seat entertainment display along with a coolbox.
Powering this beast is a 3.0 TFSI motor with 310 hp, mated with an 8-speed gearbox and the quattro all-wheel drive system. Figures are surprisingly quick for this 2,418 kg car: 100 km/h comes up in just  7.81 seconds, and the top speed is limited to 250 km/h. Audi has received numerous requests for this car since they completed this particular unit.


Public Transportation: How To Improve According To Malaysians

We all know public transportation in Malaysia is a bit of
a mixed bag
 - to put it delicately - but exactly what is holding us back? We ask real Malaysians, the so-called netizens, for some answers….

Driving vs public transport

We get it, moving around the densest parts of Malaysia (ahem…Klang Valley) can be pretty stressful even for seasoned drivers, especially during morning and even rush hour. If you’re driving, only a handful of options to surmount this problem are presented to you:

Get behind the wheel and
endure the traffic jams as they come
.

Plan ahead and preferably leave early enough to circumvent the congestion.

Take public transportation.

Should you attempt that 3rd option, outside factors will definitely play into whether your commute situation is made easier or more difficult: distance, public transport coverage, expected journey time. It’ll most definitely be the cheaper option compared to using a personal vehicle or even an e-hailing service, but will that trade-off be worth it?

While we have our own ideas about what might improve our public transportation network, we got a sample of
interesting suggestions/answers after we posed the question
 to the readership of
Carlist.my
.

Mind you, these responses were gathered over a period of just over 24 hours after the post was made on
Facebook
, in which time it amassed over 100 comments.

Disclaimer: We cannot guarantee or vouch for the coherence or rationale of these responses. Here we go.

What do Malaysians say?

Rizza Abas:

Seperti biasa, saya mencadangkan Pegawai² tertinggi PBT yang kritikal dengan kesesakkan dalam bandar untuk buat lawatan ke negara² yang maju seperti Singapura, Australia, Germany, Switzerland dan Hong Kong. Lihat bagaimana usaha mereka atas semua itu.

Cukup masa, pegawai² yang dah pergi 'lawatan sambil belajar' tu akan berpindah jabatan lain.....mana yang PTD tu akan ke kementerian lain pulak. Lagi 3-4 tahun, group lain pula akan ke sana lagi.

Adrian Chin:

I think the main thing is accessibility, its a broken system when, to get to the public transportation, you need to drive.

Harith Merican:

The politician have screwed up our whole public transport system . There are 7 rail system in KL. Cost goes up for public use. Overhead cost multiply by 7 group of people. System not integrated fir users.

Richard Quek:

Public transport route should be planned according to requirement of area (traffic conditions, demographic) rather than political driven.

WanzLatiffr Rachman:

Remove fuel subsidy and use that money to improve public transport.

There's certainly plenty of variety when it comes to the proposed solutions offered by everyday Malaysians. We can all agree that political interests has no place in the planning or execution of civil projects, but most would disagree that improving public transportation should come at the expense of our cherished fuel subsidies as that last commenter suggested.

If you'd like to chime in yourself, the Facebook thread
can be found here
.


Samseng Jalanan Berlagak Penguat Kuasa, Tayang Gari Kini Diburu – Salah Ke Polis Tayang Gari, Pistol?

Pada hujung minggu lalu, media sosial digemparkan dengan satu video yang memaparkan samseng jalan raya yang ‘berlagak’ seperti ahli penguat kuasa dengan menayangkan gari ketika menukar laluan tanpa memberikan signal.

Seperti yang diketahui ramai, kereta
Proton Persona
 dan
Proton Preve
 berwarna
silver
 memang terkenal dan kerap dilabel sebagai kereta PDRM atau penguat kuasa jabatan kerajaan memandangkan ia membawa imej serta warna rasmi kebanyakan kenderaan kerajaan yang disewasakan secara konsesi dari syarikat Spanco.

Melalui perbualan Carlist.my bersama seorang anggota Polis, beliau mengesahkan bahawa Proton Persona berwarna
silver
 tidak semestinya kereta polis. Ia merupakan kereta yang disewa dari Spanco yang digunakan oleh pelbagai jabatan kerajaan termasuklah Jabatan Kastam Diraja Malaysia.

Dalam video tersebut, pemandu Proton Persona itu cuba untuk menukar lorong tanpa memberikan signal. Oleh kerana tidak diberikan ruang untuk menukar lorong, beliau telah memecut dari arah kiri sebelum menurunkan tingkap dan melambaikan gari sambil memandu seperti graduan
lesen terbang
.

Insiden itu telah menimbulkan kemarahan dan tanda tanya dari orang ramai. Susulan itu, Bahagian Siasatan Jenayah Daerah Dang Wangi telah mengeluarkan kenyataaan bahawa mereka sudah pun menjalankan pengesanan terhadap individu berkenaan sebaik sahaja video tersebut tular.

Ketika ini, siasatan sedang dijalankan berkenaan kejadian tersebut. Pihak polis juga memohon mana-mana individu yang mempunyai maklumat berkaitan kejadian ini untuk tampil bagi membantu siasatan.

Pada mereka yang tertanya-tanya, boleh ke polis tayang gari seperti itu kepada orang awam? Apa hukumnya jika polis tayang gari atau pistol atas dasar menunjuk atau
show off
 sahaja?

Gari

Secara logiknya, perbuatan menunjukkan gari sebenarnya tidaklah mendatangkan apa-apa masalah yang serius, kecuali apabila menunjukkan gari ketika memandu seperti yang dilakukan pemandu Persona itu kerana berisiko terlibat dalam kemalangan.

Tambahan pula, tindakan menunjukkan gari tidaklah seserius senjata api kerana ia bukanlah satu senjata berjadual atau berbahaya. Untuk itu, penggunaannya tidaklah seketat penggunaan senjata api. Tapi dari segi undang-undang jalan raya, pemandu Persona itu jelas boleh dikenakan tindakan atas tindakan memandu secara berbahaya.

Senjata Api

Untuk senjata api pula, pihak polis tidak dibenarkan untuk mengeluarkan, menunjuk atau mengacu senjata api tanpa sebarang sebab munasabah. Tindakan tersebut boleh mendatangkan bahaya seperti tertembak seseorang atau diri sendiri.

Menurut kenyataan Ketua Polis Negara, Datuk Seri Acryl Sani Abdullah Sani, dalam apa keadaan sekali pun, senjata api perlu disimpan di stor senjata atau ketika dibawa keluar, disarungkan di holster sepanjang masa jika tiada keperluan untuk digunakan.

Acryl Sani juga telah memberi jaminan bahawa semua anggota polis tidak kira yang lama atau baru bertugas sudah mengetahui prosedur ketat dikenakan berkaitan penggunaan senjata api.

Boleh Ke Minta Kad Kuasa?

Tindakan pemandu yang berlagak seperti penguat kuasa ini membuatkan orang keliru sama ada orang itu penguat kuasa sebenar ataupun hanya penyamar yang berlagak sebagai penguat kuasa. Sebagai orang awam, bolehkah kita meminta kad kuasa daripada pihak berkuasa untuk membuktikan bahawa mereka bukanlah penyamar?

Menurut Hakim Mahkamah Tinggi Shah Alam, Mohd Yazid Mustafa, seseorang awam tidak boleh dikatakan melakukan kesalahan (dengan menghalang seorang penjawat awam daripada menjalankan tugas) hanya semata-mata kerana dia meminta anggota polis itu menunjukkan kad kuasa.

Beliau berkata
Police Regulations 1952
 dengan jelas meletakkan tanggungjawab di pihak anggota dan pegawai polis untuk mendedahkan identiti sebelum melaksanakan tugas masing-masing.
Regulation 39
 ada menyebut permintaan mana-mana orang awam untuk melihat kad kuasa seseorang anggota atau pegawai polis yang disangsikan penampilannya adalah munasabah dan tidak boleh ditolak.


Johor Police Use iCOPS Smart Cameras To ID Offenders In A Snap

Traffic offenders will have more to worry about
in Johor
 as the state’s police have started using smart camera technology to automatically detect violators, according to Harian Metro, called iCOPS.

The acronym, which means Intelligent Compound Online Payment System, seems rather strained as if the name was decided upon well prior to the engineering and programming work having even begun.

The system works by capturing license plate data and immediately cross-referencing it with a database of known violators using a combination of virtual coil and infrared imaging sensors.

Armed with information on recent whereabouts, PDRM is able to follow up on those who have a criminal record (specifically, auto theft-related crimes), active arrest warrants, and
outstanding summonses
 more quickly and efficiently.

In addition, Johor police will also use the new system to tackle the problem of falsified plate numbers and cloned vehicles brought
to and from Singapore
. As its name denotes, the system also has an automated summons issuing and online payment component.

During an ongoing ‘Ops Trafik’ Sepadu in Skudai, Johor police chief Datuk Ayob Mydin Pitchay revealed to the media that the state’s traffic enforcement department had recently received four iCOPS connected cameras and deployed them in 3 major districts: Iskandar Puteri, Kota Tinggi, and Johor Bahru Selatan.

Highway patrol officers will also be able to carry these cameras around to use remotely where needed, so we’re guessing they’re not too bulky. Supposedly, for these
‘in field’
situations, the licence plate detection, scanning, and cross-referencing will require a stable high-speed mobile data connection.

Regardless of connection type, the cameras will interface with Jabatan Siasatan dan Penguatkuasaan Trafik (JSPT's) dedicated iCOPS data centre. More cameras are planned to be deployed over time following the successful familiarisation and testing period, and that opens the door for iCOPS to be adopted across the country.


New 2016 Proton Perdana "Previewed" To The Media

During a media walkabout of the
Alami Proton Carnival 2015
, which happens this weekend (3-4 October), we were brought on a tour of Proton’s Research and Development Centre where the new 2016 Proton Perdana (codenamed P4-28B) was displayed, albeit under wraps for the moment.
We were told specifically that no photos taken during the tour were allowed to be published until a later date but were granted permission to disclose a few things about Proton’s most upmarket offering.
Firstly, the
car seen in the movie
Kapsul
 is certainly not the final design of the car. Although we were only shown the profile of the car (under heavy wraps and tight security, mind you), there are a few noticeable differences clearly seen through the cloth wrap draped over the car. A display board also gave us a look at the new car’s silhouette which is shrouded in darkness save for a glimpse of the car’s side and headlights.
This includes a more pronounced boot lip spoiler and new wing mirrors as well. The headlights themselves are significantly different from that found first phase model (known to many as the Accordana), as they appear to look sleeker in design. It’s hard to tell if they adopt LEDs, xenons, or halogens as the lighting element. Other details include a shark fin roof-mounted antenna, and door handles which aren’t flush with the bodywork. There also a slight haunch seen on the hood, something not found on the previous model as well. We have been told that the car measures 4.99 meters in length.
It is already known that the eight generation Honda Accord’s platform will serve as the car’s underpinnings, as it was on the first phase of the second generation Perdana. Meanwhile, Azlan Othman, Proton’s Head of Design, also said "it is known" that Honda’s 2.0-litre R20A3 in-line four-cylinder and 2.4-litre K24Z2 in-line four cylinder petrol engines will serve as the powerplant for the new Perdana as well. He added that 80% of the car's design will be significantly different from the car it is based on as well.
On the safety side of things, Proton hinted to a five-star
ANCAP rating
, but this would imply that the Perdana would be exported to Australia, something which Proton has yet to confirm. Also, starting 2014,
all cars must come equipped
 with autonomous emergency braking, lane keeping assist and other advanced driving assistance systems (ADAS) to qualify for a five-star rating. Again, Proton is not confirming the availability of these features yet.
We did spot something of interest on a display board located at the R&D centre which pointed features such as an Active Blind Spot Assist System and Lane Departure Warning System. However, these aren’t confirmed to be in the new Perdana.
Other features seen on said display board include an electronic parking brake and a rotary gear shift, which again, aren’t confirmed to be in the new car.
As for its availability, 2016 is the targeted launch date for the new Proton Perdana and unlike its first phase/second gen model, which was sold exclusively to Malaysian civil servants and government officials, the general public will be able to purchase this one as well.
With Proton Holdings Bhd Chairman, Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad, scheduled to make an appearance at the Carnival tomorrow, here’s to hoping he unveils the car himself for all to see. Stay tuned to this space.


Volkswagen Teases The T-Cross, Its Smallest SUV Yet

Volkswagen has confirmed that it will be expanding its SUV range with the introduction of the T-Cross compact SUV later this year.
Built on the MQB platform like the Polo, the T-Cross measures 4,107 mm in length which is similar to models like the Peugeot 2008, Hyundai Kona, and the Renault Captur.
It will be the smallest SUV in Volkswagen’s portfolio, sitting below the T-Roc which measures 4,178 mm in length.
First presented at the 2016 Geneva International Motor Show as a prototype, a teaser image of the T-Cross was released by the German carmaker yesterday, giving us a glimpse at how the new compact SUV’s rear will look.
From what we can see, it is designed to be quite sporty, featuring full-width LED tail lights, a rear spoiler, flared wheel arches, contrasting roof rails, large wheels, and a rugged looking rear bumper.
No technical details were revealed but Volkswagen confirmed that the T-Cross will only be offered in front-wheel drive layout around the world.
Despite its small size, the T-Cross promises to offer a surprising amount of cabin space, thanks to features like the back seat which can be adjusted lengthwise for more knee room or more boot space.
Volkswagen added that the T-Cross will enter the market as one of the safest vehicles in its class with a wide range of assistance systems that are offered as standard, such as Front Assist, Ambient Traffic Monitoring System, and Lane Assist.


Honda's All-New Civic Type R Spotted Testing, Headed For BTCC Debut

Honda
’s all-new
Civic
 Type R has held sway over motoring enthusiasts’ conversations ever since it’s Japanese maker decided to tease its arrival. Now, for the 2015 season of the British Touring Car Championship, we get to see it in its racing guise.
The Dunlop MSA BTCC will see this car in competition, which has been undergoing tests at the Brands Hatch circuit and will be officially unveiled at the Season Launch, held at the Donnington Park circuit on March 24
th
. It will be competing under Honda Yuasa Racing, with final preparations being completed with the help of Worcestershire-based Team Dynamics and Honda UK.
This racing version will produce 350hp and 400Nm of torque from the uprated 2.0-litre turbocharge four-cylinder VTEC engine, along with the requisite weight reduction, revised aero package, and motorsport-grade safety enhancements. No chassis enhancements have been detailed yet, but the team certainly isn’t starting off with a weak base car. Quite the opposite in fact.


Subaru Thailand Hopes To Introduce A Salvo Of CKD SUV Models By 2021

Motor Image Subaru (Thailand) plans to have four locally-assembled SUV models priced within the THB 1-2 million range by 2021, reports
The Bangkok Post
.
Quoting sources familiar with Subaru’s product strategy, the brand will leverage off its new factory operations in Lad Krabang, Bangkok to improve its supply chain and lower vehicle prices in an effort to pinch away sales of established SUV models from Honda and Toyota.
Seven-seater Subaru Ascent
In addition to the Forester (which is produced in Thailand), models eyed for local assembly are the
XV
 (which is currently exported from Malaysia), the
Ascent
 (only produced in the US), and the
Outback
 crossover (currently imported from Japan).
However, brand shapers like the BRZ and WRX sedan will continue to be imported from Japan.
Bangkok Post also reports that the
Forester e-Boxer
 is also being considered for local assembly to rival the
Nissan X-Trail Hybrid
.
Likewise, Subaru hopes to pull away sales of seven-seater SUVs such as the
Toyota Fortuner
 with the Ascent, which given its monocoque body architecture, promises better driving dynamics. However, since the first-generation Ascent has already been on sale in the US for two years, adapting the model specifically for the right-hand drive Thai-market could likely only take place when the model is facelifted, or the second generation model is introduced.
All four SUVs are based on variations of Subaru’s Global Platform (SGP) hence adapting different models for local assembly is made more straightforward.
Find superb deals on Subaru vehicles
here
.


Toll Hike Important For Concessionaires To Absorb Costs, Says PSKLM

The Association of Highway Concessionaires Malaysia (PSKLM) has said that the possible
scheduled toll rate increase
 will allow concessionaires to better absorb financing and rising maintenance costs.
PSKLM mentioned the move took into consideration the agreements made between the concessionaires and the financers and is not not solely based on the agreement between the government and the toll operators.
Referencing a Malaysian Highway Authority’s study, PSKLM stated that about 75% of the tolls collected were to service debt, with another 20% spent on maintenance and overheads.
PSKLM reaffirmed that not all highways were profit-making, citing the Stormwater Management and Road Tunnel (SMART) Tunnel which spent about one third of its annual income on maintenance alone.
“Traffic volume is below projection as the SMART tunnel has to be closed whenever the situation warranted to alleviate flooding, and the cleaning up costs could go up to RM500,000,” it said.
Recently, Works Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof said the government would consider paying a compensation of RM580 million to 23 toll concessionaires if there is no increase in toll rates.
Toll concessionary companies were eligible to request for an increase in toll rates which needed to be reviewed every three years, five years or seven years, he said.
In 2013, toll collection amounted to RM5.4 billion while 2014 saw a takeway of RM5.425 billion. This according to Deputy Works Minister Datuk Seri Rosnah Rashid Shirlin.
Sources:
Free Malaysia Today
,
The Malaysian Insider (1)
,
The Malaysian Insider (2)


The New 2021 MINI Electric Has Arrived - For RM217k

The first edition MINI Electric of 30 units was quickly snapped up soon after its launch last year. For those who missed out, here is your chance to own the famous 2021 MINI Electric.

MINI Malaysia has unveiled the latest variant of the MINI Electric, first introduced to the Malaysian market
mid-August
 last year. According to MINI Malaysia, MINI Electric has steadily become an icon of the MINI portfolio, and they are proud to see this model perform exceptionally in Malaysia.

The New 2021 MINI Electric features a fresh design language that marks MINI’s transition into the next generation. Now available with a range of new equipment made standard, the New MINI Electric also arrives alongside the latest variants of the MINI 3 Door, MINI 5 Door and MINI Convertible.

Exterior

Just like its ICE (internal combustion engine) brethren, the New 2021 MINI Electric features a refreshed appearance starting with new front bumpers that does away with fog lights and now includes integrated air curtains for improved aerodynamics. Also, a new addition to the front is a new yellow S Badge sitting in the place of the previous E Badge. A new body-colour safety bar rests on the front bumper, while a black surround now accentuates the hexagonal shape of the vehicle’s radiator grille.

Adaptive LED headlights with Matrix functionality now come with high-gloss black inner housing; and along the sides, the 2021 MINI Electric features a modernised and identifiable side scuttle design that includes LED indicators and Electric-specific inserts.

Towards the rear, the previously Vigorous Grey tailgate handle is now swapped out for a sleek Black, while the rear bumper retains its original design language. The 2021 MINI Electric continues to ride on 17-inch wheels in the MINI Electric Power Spoke two-tone with run-flat tyres.

Interior

Just like the others, the 2021 MINI Electric comes with a refreshed interior design language with a new cockpit décor panel geometry that appears horizontally-stretched through enlarged décor trim. Drivers are also treated to a new steering wheel design with horizontal spokes and multi-function buttons that are integrated on an even surface with the Piano Black finish.

Other new features include the modernised inner and outer air vents that are integrated into the cockpit fascias, new ambient lighting in the form of light strips that highlight the interior geometry, as well as new door bezel décor in Piano Black, and the MINI Controller in black finishing as well.

The new black panel design for the centre instrument panel is also reflected in the 8.8-inch MINI Navigation System equipped with the full MINI Connected suite which includes new Concierge Services, on top of the standard Teleservices, Remote Services, Intelligent Emergency Call, MINI Online and Apple Carplay. The vehicle is also equipped with the MINI Head Up Display, and the impressive 12-Speaker 360-watt Harman Kardon Sound System.

Powertrain

The 2021 MINI Electric is powered by the highly powerful version of the synchronous electric motor developed by the BMW Group – a front-axle electric engine capable of 184HP, as well as a 12-module T-shaped battery unit with a net capacity of 28.9kWh. The MINI Electric shares a peak torque of 270Nm with its predecessor while consuming 17.6 – 15.2kWh per 100km of travel. The electrified MINI offers a maximum speed of 150km/h and a driving range of up to 232km (WLTP). The 2021 MINI Electric can also make the century sprint in 7.3 seconds.

The MINI Electric continues to offer a range of charging capabilities, whether at home or at a public charging facility. When recharging at a DC charging station, the New MINI Electric only requires approximately 36 minutes to go from zero to 80% charge, where the MINI Wallbox Plus offers an 80% charge in just two and half hours, similar to recharging at a public AC charging station. The charging progress of the 2021 MINI Electric can be viewed on the inside of the charging flap, at the Digital Instrument Cluster or via the MINI App.

Driving Assistance

The MINI eDrive, available as standard, gives the vehicle intelligent digital services and functions for a hassle-free drive. The Green Driving Assistant (GDA) provides useful onboard functionalities, such as the Range Assistant that presents different solutions to the driver in case of insufficient battery, for greater peace of mind. It is able to suggest a more efficient route (Green Route), driving mode or the nearest charging station, so the driver can still arrive at their destination. The range circle also displays the range within the selected driving mode on the map.

Additionally, the new MINI App offers the New MINI Electric an advanced user experience that befits a digital lifestyle, allowing drivers to access their MINI at any time. Owners can call up information on the vehicle’s status or to prepare for the next drive. The MINI App serves as a universal interface between the smartphone and the vehicle. Features include remote access to vehicle charging status and electric range, charging history, along with Remote Services to locate the vehicle and lock or unlock the doors, send navigational directions such as charging stations from a smartphone directly to the vehicle, as well as turning on the air conditioning system in the vehicle remotely.

Similar to the previous generation, the 2021 MINI Electric is also equipped with the Driving Assistant system as standard. This camera-based driving assistance system package consists of the Speed Limit info, as well as the digital high-beam assistant. The system also intelligently features the person warning and approach control warning, both with light city braking function. The New MINI Electric is also equipped with the Park Assistant, front and rear Park Distance Control, and Cruise Control with braking function.

A new feature to the MINI family line-up and now also a standard across all new MINI models is the Lane Departure Warning that helps the driver stay safely on the chosen course at speeds between 70 and 210 km/h. To prevent unintentional lane departure, the system registers markings at the edge of the lane and alerts the driver if there is a risk of deviation by vibrating the steering wheel.

Driving Impression

Although we haven't had the opportunity to drive the new MINI Electric, we did have a go in the
old one
. My colleague labelled it as 'Realistic Electric Mobility' and we can't imagine the new one being any lesser. He even said that the car was fun and despite the extra weight, getting off the line is brisk.

Colour Options

Exterior colour offerings of the 2021 MINI Electric include the exclusive White Silver with Black Roof and Energetic Yellow Accents, the British Racing Green with Black Roof and Black Mirror Caps, and the Midnight Black with White Roof and Energetic Yellow Accents.

How to Buy

Customers are encouraged to view the new models online via the www.mini.my website as all dealerships will be closed in accordance with the latest Movement Control Order. Customers may also contact their preferred dealers for further information.

The new models are also available for online booking at RM1,000 each via the MINI eShop platform at https://www.mini.my/en_MY/home/happenings/minionlineshop.html.

The New MINI Electric arrives with the MINI 4 Years Unlimited Mileage Warranty, 8 Years/ 100,000KM High Voltage Battery Warranty with Free Scheduled Service. The recommended retail price with Sales and Services Tax Exemption (on the road, without insurance) is:

The New MINI Electric         RM 217,470.73


JDT Dan Aston Martin Bakal Hasilkan Kereta ‘JDT Edition’ - Bekas Pereka PROTON Kongsi Rekaan Konsep

Prestasi memberangsangkan Kelab Bolasepak Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT) di dalam dan di luar padang telah berjaya menarik perhatian jenama automotif terkemuka dunia,
Aston Martin Racing Asia
 untuk menjalinkan kerjasama bersama.

Melalui kerjasama ini, Aston Martin telah bersetuju untuk mengeluarkan rekaan kereta sport Aston Martin edisi terhad yang dipanggil 'JDT Edition' untuk dijual sendiri oleh JDT sekaligus mengukuhkan lagi jenama mereka sebagai peneraju bola sepak di Asia Tenggara. Keuntungan dari jualan tersebut akan dikongsi bersama oleh JDT dan Aston Martin.

Kelab bola sepak ini turut berbangga kerana berjaya mencapai persetujuan dengan ibu pejabat syarikat pemotoran tersebut, yang berpusat di United Kingdom. Kerjasama ini membuktikan taraf peningkatan jenama kelab itu tidak kiralah sama ada di peringkat tempatan mahupun antarabangsa, semenjak ia ditubuhkan Tunku Mahkota Johor Tunku Ismail Sultan Ibrahim pada tahun 2013.

Selain memberi nilai kewangan kepada JDT, kerjasama ini turut membuka lebih banyak peluang kepada JDT dan Aston Martin untuk bekerjasama dalam pelbagai bidang lain dalam masa akan datang. Kerjasama ini dilihat sebagai kerjasama antara juara kerana JDT merupakan juara Liga Super Malaysia selama 7 kali berturut-turut, manakala Aston Martin pula merupakan juara perlumbaan
Le Mans Endurance 2020.

Kerjasama ini mampu menambah lagi kekuatan sokongan serta penerimaan terhadap jenama JDT seperti hubungannya dengan kelab terkemuka antarabangsa, individu, organisasi serta entiti perniagaan. Walau bagaimanapun, perincian yang lebih teliti mengenai model edisi terhad ini masih belum didedahkan. Model mana yang dipilih sebagai model asas turut tidak diketahui.

Sementara itu, seorang bekas pereka
PROTON
 yang merupakan anak jati Johor, Saharudin Busri, yang kini merupakan Ketua Reka Bentuk Industri MIMOS Berhad telah berkongsi konsep rekaan kereta JDT Edition ini di laman Facebook beliau. Beliau juga pernah membuat rekaan konsep
Sport car
 dan
kereta elektrik versi Malaysia
 sebelum ini.

Bukan itu sahaja, sebelum ini beliau juga ada menyiapkan sebuah rekaan konsep Aston Martin yang dibina berdasarkan daripada kereta
Hot Wheels
. Selain Hot Wheels, beliau turut menggunakan kapal layar mewah
Lamborghini
 yang baru dibeli oleh Conor McGregor, iaitu Lamborghini Tecnomar 63 Yacht sebagai sumber idea rekaan tersebut.

Setelah JDT mengumumkan kerjasama dengan Aston Martin, sebagai penyokong JDT, beliau berasa terpanggil untuk membuat rekaan konsep JDT Edition ini. Saharudin telah menggunakan semula reka bentuk kereta tersebut dan melakukan sedikit pengubahsuaian pada rekaan tersebut untuk memberi sedikit nafas Harimau Selatan pada rekaan model ini.

Kereta konsep JDT Edition yang dihasilkannya menggunakan gabungan warna biru, merah dan hitam sebagai warna tema yang menyamai warna yang digunakan oleh JDT sebagai warna rasmi pasukan mereka.

Saharudin berharap agar kerjasama antara JDT dan Aston Martin ini mampu membuka mata lebih banyak pihak serta jenama terkemuka dunia untuk melihat sendiri kehebatan dan kejayaan kelab bola sepak ini untuk memiliki kereta edisi khas pasukan yang tersendiri. Semakin terkenal JDT di mata dunia, semakin jauhlah nama negara bakal diangkat.

Pada pendapat anda, model Aston Martin mana satu yang akan dihasilkan sebagai kereta edisi terhad JDT Edition kelak? Atau adakah anda lebih menyukai reka bentuk konsep yang dihasilkan oleh Saharudin ini untuk direalisasikan? Kongsikan jawapan anda dengan kami!

*Kredit video: Saharudin Busri

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Bridgestone Debuts New Flagship Potenza Sport Tyre

Bridgestone today debuts their new flagship tyre, the Potenza Sport. Because
Better Never Settles
, the new Potenza Sport is engineered using state-of-the-art technology to offer superior road-holding performance.

Among the key attributes of the Potenza Sport are:

Exceptional cornering and straight-line stability

Outstanding control in both dry and wet conditions

Coming on the back of Potenza's previous range-topper, the S007A, the new Potenza Sport has innovative 3D sipes that increase shear stiffness, as well as improve braking and resistance to abrasion. The tyre compound contains an optimized formula, that when combined with innovative mixing technology improves the tyre's wet and dry handling characteristics. Bridgestone has also applied a new hybrid crown reinforcement to further maximise tyre stability at high speeds.

“Succeeding Bridgestone’s flagship Potenza S007A, the POTENZA Sport is designed to meet the wide range of premium sports sedans and SUVs as well as high-performance sports cars’ driver’s needs and expectations by unlocking the performance of their vehicle while keeping them in control.”, commented Michael Chung, Managing Director, Bridgestone Tyre Sales (M) Sdn. Bhd.

During the tyre design and development phase of the Potenza Sport, Bridgestone employed virtual tyre development technology to predict the tyre's performance without having to physically produce and test it. This served the dual benefit of not only being more environmentally friendly due to the reduction of resources used but also shortened the duration of the development process, accelerating time-to-market.

The Potenza Sport is currently available in 16 different sizes ranging from 18-inches to 19-inches and can be purchased from all Bridgestone authorised dealers. Find out more about the Potenza Sport
here
.


All-New Suzuki Swift Leaked Ahead Of Thai Debut

The all-new Suzuki Swift will be introduced in Thailand tomorrow, benefiting from Thailand’s Eco Car Phase 2 program with better incentives.
Four variants of the all-new Suzuki Swift will be offered – GA, GL, GLX and GLX Navi. All variants of the all-new Swift come standard with a CVT, though the company plans to offer a 5-speed manual later.
For the Thai market, all variants of the Suzuki Swift will be equipped with the company’s 1.2-litre DUALJET (twin fuel injection per cylinder) K12M four-cylinder petrol engine that outputs 83 PS and 108 Nm. The engine is also gasohol E20 compatible. Engine auto start/stop is also standard across the range, allowing the all-new Swift to deliver a claimed fuel consumption of 23 km/L, as part of the requirement in Eco Car Phase 2 program.
In terms of dimensions, the all-new Swift comes in at 3,840 mm long, 1,735 mm wide and 1,480 mm tall. As for the wheelbase, the all-new Swift measures in at 2,450 mm.
Thanks to the new Heartect platform, the company has managed to shave a lot of weight on the new Swift, as the new model’s kerb weight ranges from 840 kg to 910 kg, depending on specifications.
Equipment levels are also rather generous, as selected variants of the all-new Swift can be had with:
LED projector headlights with LED DRLs
LED position lights
LED tail lights
Tilt & telescopic steering
Keyless push start system
Automatic air-conditioning
7-inch Suzuki Connect infotainment system with Apple CarPlay
6 speakers
As for the all-new Swift’s safety equipment, all variants of the new model will receive dual front SRS airbags, side impact door beams, ABS, EBD, ESP, TRC, Hill Hold Control and ISOFIC anchor points. The Swift GLX and GLX Navi add another side and curtain airbags to the mix, bringing the airbag count to 6.
Six body colours are offered – Ablaze Red Pearl, Speedy Blue Metallic, Star Silver Metallic, Mineral Grey Metallic, Super Black Pearl, and Pure White Pearl. Pure White Pearl is a THB 5,000 cost option.
Prices start from THB 442,000 (~RM55,000) for the Swift GA MT, while the GA CVT costs THB 478,000 (~RM59,300). The six airbags-equipped Swift GLX CVT will set buyers back for THB 564,000 (~RM70,000).
Click on images to enlarge


Mitsubishi Outlander Sports Edition, Only 120 Units For Malaysia

Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia, the official distributor of Mitsubishi vehicles in Malaysia has introduced the Outlander Sports Edition - limited to only 120 units.
Compared to the
regular Outlander 2.0
, the new Outlander Sports Edition adds:
Dual-tone red metallic paint with black roof
Black front grille
Black side mirror covers
Black door sill covers
Black roof rails and rear spoiler
Black 18-inch alloy wheels
Outlander bonnet emblem
Rear seat DVD entertainment system
Carpets with red stitching
Elsewhere, equipment of the Mitsubishi Outlander Sports Edition remains identical to the regular Outlander 2.0 variant, including:
LED daytime running lights
7-inch touchscreen infotainment system
Apple CarPlay, Android Auto
Front and rear parking sensors
Digital video recorder
Security tint
Limited to just 120 units nationwide, the Outlander Sports Edition is mechanically identical to the vanilla Outlander 2.0, featuring a naturally-aspirated 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine that does 145 PS and 196 Nm, paired to an INVECS-III CVT-type automatic. Power is then sent to all four wheels via Mitsubishi's Multi-Select 4WD system.
The Mitsubishi Outlander Sports Edition will set buyers back for RM142,888.


When NCAP’s Five-Star Rating Don’t Mean Much – And How Honda Is Moving Ahead

A little knowledge is a dangerous thing – not all NCAP (new car assessment programme) ratings are the same, and not all 5-star NCAP cars are equally safe. While it is indeed a positive step to see more consumers referring to NCAP ratings when buying a car, many have a wrong understanding of what NCAP is and how it works.
Firstly, each region has their own respective NCAP systems to reflect their local market requirements, and none of their results should be compared against one another, as the test methodologies and vehicle specifications are different, even if it’s referring to the same model.
The table below summarises the differences in testing standards among leading Global NCAP affiliated organisations.
Read more at
:
Euro NCAP, ANCAP, ASEAN NCAP – What’s The Difference?
Secondly, NCAP standards are constantly changing. A test result from 2013 should not be compared against one from 2015.
Also, all NCAP tests involves only a single vehicle, done in a controlled lab environment. Clearly this is very different from what happens in the real world, where multi-vehicle collisions are common.
Only very few car manufacturers go beyond what is required by NCAP standards. The ones that do, are usually higher-end premium brands.

Honda – the focus of today’s topic - is the odd one among the trio, as it is not a luxury brand but yet takes initiatives to ensure its smaller, lower riding cars can withstand a collision against taller, larger SUVs.
The image below highlights the problem with unaligned ride heights. Unlike a flat surface structure which NCAP crash its test vehicles into, the situations in the real-world are far more complex.
In such situations, a typical 5-star NCAP car can have its passive safety features rendered useless as the energy absorbing structure is unable to work as designed.
Back in October, we were given an opportunity to witness first-hand how Honda’s Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) Body Structure and G-force Control (G-CON) safety features is filling the gap left by NCAP’s rating system.
Carlist.my spoke to Mr. Koichi Kamiji, Senior Chief Engineer at the Automotive R&D Centre of Honda R&D in Tochigi, Japan to learn more. Our meeting was arranged by Honda as part of the 2015 Honda Meeting event in the run-up to November’s 2015 Tokyo Motor Show.
“Not Merely Meeting Government Regulations”
Kamiji gave us a tour of Honda’s sprawling 41,000 square metre (about four football fields) indoor vehicle-to-vehicle crash test facility – the first of its kind in the world.
Prior to this, all crash labs can only simulate accidents involving one vehicle, while multi-vehicle collisions had to be studied in the open.
Opened in March 2000, it is from this research facility that Honda’s famed ACE and G-CON technology was developed from. The former has been gradually introduced on all Honda cars since 2004.
Today, all Honda models including the cheapest entry-level Brio that is sold in India, Thailand and Indonesia, are equipped with ACE technology.
What’s more impressive is that the facility was built in just eight months!
“We cannot stop at just building cars that merely meets minimum government regulations,” explained Kamiji-san. “What didn’t exist, we had to build it,” he added.
We weren’t allowed to bring our cameras into this very well-guarded facility but we stumbled upon this rather old video on Youtube. As you can see from the video above, the facility is like a huge indoor stadium – just imagine replacing the grass-covered pitch with a white, super-clean lab-like floor surface, minus the stadium seats, and with a quarter-circular layout, complete with bright flood lights overhead.
Rising above the ground from one side, snaking upwards towards the centre is a glass-covered circular-shaped control centre that grants technicians observing the test a 300 degrees view of the pillarless facility. Imagine combining the top of an airport control tower with the base of a table lamp and you will get the picture.
Just as footballers entering the pitch would normally emerge from tunnels at the sides, this facility has eight ‘tunnels’ for cars to be propelled out from, allowing Honda’s safety engineers to simulate collisions with a wide variety of lateral approach angles – the tunnels are built at 15 degrees intervals from 0 degrees to 90 degrees, with the last tunnel aligned at 180 degrees (direct hit with another vehicle coming from the 0 degrees tunnel).
There’s also a movable barrier that allows Honda to conduct regular single vehicle collision test.
This multi-configurability also means that conventional floor- or wall-mounted power sockets cannot be used. Instead, the 1,000 frames per second high speed cameras are suspended from above, and on both sides of the test area.
At the middle of the test area is a transparent floor that allows another high speed camera mounted below surface to capture the effects of the impact on the vehicle’s under body.
The facility can also simulate collisions involving motorcycles and pedestrians.
Outside the test area, many severely smashed up Honda models can be seen. We were told that to date, the facility has completed over 20,000 crash tests, including vehicles made by other manufacturers.
Kamiji explained that laws of physics meant that occupants in a smaller car are more likely to be injured in a collision with a larger car. Still, there are some engineering solutions that can be done to improve the survival rates of occupants in smaller vehicles.
“A large car has a stronger body to sustain its own weight, and in a collision with a smaller car, much of the energy is absorbed by the smaller car. The idea is to spread the collision force across a wider surface area, rather than just on a few particular points (conventional solution) used,” said Kamiji.
Thus the basic principle of ACE is to use multiple-frames for impact absorption to create more paths for the impact energy to be dispersed around the smaller car’s occupants.
To prove the point, Honda did a live crash test demonstration involving a 1.7 tonne CR-V and a 1.1-tonne Jazz. The frontal-offset tests were conducted at 50 percent offset (meaning only half of the car’s front hits the other car, severely reducing the available area to absorb the impact energy), 180 degrees, at 50 km/h.
The standard NCAP single vehicle test is conducted at 40 percent offset, at 64 km/h, but Kamiji explained that car-to-car collisions mostly happened at between 50 km/h to 60 km/h (at point of impact), and that the standards used are based on real-world data collected by Honda.
He adds that the facility is able to simulate car-to-car collisions at speeds of up to 80 km/h, from 50 percent to 10 percent offset.
In any case, Kamiji also adds that Honda’s G-CON body is already designed to meet a much more rigorous internal standard, which is more demanding than NCAP’s guidelines – including a 55 km/h side-impact and full frontal impact (5 km/h higher than NCAP), and 50 km/h rear impact (not required by NCAP or any government regulation).
Seeing crash test videos on Youtube is one thing, seeing its live is quite another as nothing can prepare you for the shock of witnessing two cars crashing into each other live.
With the pleasantries over, we were politely asked to leave floor area and were reminded to wear our safety goggles. The ambient lights were dimmed down, leaving only the test area lighted, and the countdown begins. Thirty seconds later counter drops to zero, a final warning horn sounded, followed by the whirring sound of a pair of 800 kW electric motor pulling both cars on opposite ends towards each other. The noise from the rapidly accelerating cars became louder, they came into view and then ‘wham!’
The sound of steel crushing was so loud that it created a momentary boom that was strong enough to be felt on my chest. The impact was violent enough to throw both cars several feet away from their original path of travel.
Notice how far the Jazz continues to roll back while the CR-V comes to a stop almost immediately. This goes to show how much energy is transfered to the smaller Jazz.
Now we understand why they don’t bother testing at any higher speeds, because any higher, irrespective of vehicle type, the human body won’t be able to sustain the g-force even if engineers can keep the car intact.
After the floor has been cleared of sharp debris, we were allowed go down to the test area. Kamiji-san showed us how ACE and G-CON worked.
Despite having a nearly 600 kg deficit over the CR-V, the Jazz’s cabin remained intact. He invited someone to try and open the driver’s door – it opened normally with little effort, revealing an almost-OK cabin. Neither the dashboard nor steering rack had deformed or injured the dummy driver. The dummy driver’s legs were not trapped in any manner, and if the dummy was a person, he could’ve easily opened the doors and walked away unassisted.
We moved over to the passenger side, and there was hardly any deformation. In fact, if viewed from this side, at an angle where you don’t see the deformed hood, the car appeared to be perfectly fine. As we were not allowed to bring any cameras, I didn’t have any pictures of the passenger side. It’s hard to believe it, but if I were to show you the view from the other side, you would’ve thought it’s a perfectly fine car.
Honda's ACE and G-CON features are available on even their cheapest Brio (not sold here), never mind models like the City, Jazz, and HR-V. Does this apply to all Honda models sold worldwide? Kamiji-san confirmed that is correct.


Geneva 2018: Peugeot Rifter 4x4 Concept - Back To Basics Off-Roader

Peugeot will unveil its Rifter 4x4 Concept vehicle at the upcoming Geneva Motor Show. Unlike most concept cars which are shiny and futuristic, the Rifter 4x4 Concept – based on Peugeot's latest van-based MPV of the same name – takes a practical shell and pairs it with off-road components to create a back-to-basics vehicle that can go anywhere.
Fitted with off-road specific tyres by BF Goodrich, and an all-wheel drive system developed with off-road specialist Dangel, the Rifter 4x4 Concept is in its element on gravel, mud, snow, and stony trails. In addition, its 80mm ground clearance allows it to clear most obstacles.
The 4x4 transmission uses a viscous coupling which can be activated via a selector that is located to the right of the gear lever. There are 3 driving modes:
The 2RM mode leaves the Rifter in front-wheel drive mode for everyday trips
In 4RM mode, the transmission powers all four wheels in case of loss of motor function
the Lock mode, locks the rear axle, which is useful for extreme travel and crossing bridges
The Rifter is powered by Peugeot’s 1.5-litre BlueHDi 130 turbodiesel engine which produces a substantial 300Nm torque, paired with a six-speed manual gearbox.
In terms of aesthetics, the Rifter 4x4 Concept is jazzed up with matte-black trim on the front grille. boot, and tailgate section to boast a more rugged look. Along the flanks, the Rifter 4x4 Concept features Onyx black 'varnished' 16-inch wheels.
The interior boasts a rugged feel, with seats finished in a combination of grey textile with black Alcantara. The Peugeot i-Cockpit architecture features a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and is highlighted by satin grey trim items.
Fitted just above the windscreen is a powerful 1.35m-wide light-bar, fitted with 100 LED lights over 2 rows with a total output of 300W.
Another party-piece of the Rifter is its “Overland” tent developed by Autohome; the tent simply needs to be unfolded from its housing, located on the roof bars. Peugeot claims the roof bars comply with the “City Crash Test” standard and can bear “’all types of loads”. The tent is accessed with a sliding ladder which is affixed to the roof section. The tent's mattress textile matches that of the seats inside the car.
For the last part of the adventure, the Rifter Concept is supplied with a Peugeot eM02 FS Powertube electric mountain bike, which features a compact battery integrated into the frame, providing a fluid and streamlined style. The bike is stored at the rear, on a mount with a quick-release tow-ball coupling.


2022 Jaguar XF Launched In Malaysia - From RM498,800

Jaguar Land Rover Malaysia (JLRM)
 has officially launched the new Jaguar XF for the Malaysian market (the last time was pre-launch, this time its launch-launch).

Updated for 2022, the new XF now comes with a new exterior design as well as a more premium interior in terms of both looks and feel.

Those who suddenly want to have a 'Jag' in their lives can now place their bookings for the XF (it was fully booked during the pre-launch phase, but has now been reopened). Exterior-wise, the XF is fitted with a refreshed front-end design that includes a new grille with lower-positioned air intakes, all-LED 'Double J' headlights, plus a sleek rear bumper to round up its new look.

More changes can be seen on the inside than out as the new XF now comes with a more 'dynamic and bold' cockpit setup for a more enhanced driving experience. It is said to have a much sportier centre console that blends into the dashboard and it also comes with a wireless device charger.

Speaking of dashboard, you'll also find a new and wider 11.4-inch curved glass HD touchscreen that features the latest Pivi Pro infotainment tech. Not only is it three times brighter and 48% larger, but there's also wireless Apple CarPlay as well as Android Auto (for compatible smartphones only).

For RM498,800 (price includes 10% SST but without insurance, road tax, and registration), the new Jaguar XF RWD model comes ready with a 2.0-litre four-cylinder Ingenium petrol engine that produces 250PS which allows it to hit 0-100km/h in just 7.1 seconds (also thanks to its eight-speed automatic gearbox).

Other highlighted features include Active Road Noise Cancellation, Meridian Sound system, and Jaguar's latest-generation driver assistance technology which comes ready with Adaptive Cruise Control as well as Driver Condition Monitor.


CMCO, Round 2: Klang Valley Gets 29 Roadblocks, 3 Road Closures (So Far)

For residents of Klang Valley (Selangor, Kuala Lumpur, Putrajaya), the Conditional Movement Control Order (
CMCO
) is back to being enforced, which started at midnight today (October 14th) and will run for 2 weeks until October 27th.

As inconvenient as it is, the ‘conditions’ themselves have also been modified from when we last saw them in effect earlier this year. According to the National Security Council, all economic activities are still allowed to operate but, with a few exceptions, can only do so between a window of 6am to 10pm.

These timing restrictions also apply to restaurants, food trucks, roadside stalls, food courts, and sundry shops. There is even more detail given to specific types of trade activities such as wet markets and the like and, for your indulgence, the full list of SOPs and stipulations
can be viewed here
.

Closer to home for us motorists, the majority of petrol stations also need to adhere to the 6am to 10pm operation window, though those that are found along highways are allowed to remain continually open throughout 24 hours.

Additionally,
public transportation
 such as buses and light rail (MRT, LRT, ERL, Monorail) will also be allowed to operate, but only between 6am and 12am. However, travel to locations further away such as KLIA, KLIA2, and the Subang Airport will require individual permission from the police.

Obviously, the main objective of this CMCO is to curb the rising cases of new COVID-19 infections within the Klang Valley. To this end, the government will be enlisting the help of the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) to enforce road closures and road blocks
with the help of
the Malaysian Armed Forces (ATM), Malaysia Civil Defence Force (APM), and RELA volunteers.

So far, PDRM has announced these closures and road blocks are to occur on several main thoroughfares that run across district borders. Petaling Jaya police have confirmed 3 road closures in and around Kota Damansara:

Persiaran Sungai Buloh (TSB)

Persiaran Mahogani (Section 9)

Persiaran Jati (Section 8)

These closures apply to public vehicles but will remain accessible to emergency services such as ambulances, the fire department, and even select MBPJ staff. In the map below, the road closures are highlighted in red whereas the alternative routes have been highlighted in green:

Jalan Persiaran Kenanga - Tol Kota Damansara

Jalan Persiaran Surian - Palm Spring Kota Damansara

Jalan Persiaran Tropicana - Casa Tropicana

It was also announced that a total of 29 police road blocks are confirmed to be erected in various locations around the Klang Valley, though concentrated within the greater Kuala Lumpur metropolitan area. These locations are also likely to change as needed over the course of the next 2 weeks.

Though inter-state travel is prohibited, inter-district travel is
technically allowed
 for work purposes as well as to acquire basic supplies such as groceries with a cap of 2 persons per household. A ‘work from home’ arrangement is encouraged, but for those for whom that does not apply, employees will need to acquire a permit or permission slip issued by their employers, to be presented at these roadblocks. To those who need to travel for other reasons, specific permission from the local police department is required.

Schools and institutes of higher educated will remain closed, as expected. Physical distancing must always be maintained and the wearing of masks is still compulsory in public areas, yet sporting and recreational activities conducted in the outdoors are still permitted. Again, we refer you to the full list of SOPs published by the National Security Council (linked above) for more details.

Of course, we will be following up with more on the second round of CMCO (KV Edition) as the news comes.


Relaxation Of Travel For Those With Two Vaccine Doses – Interstate Travel And Dine-In With Conditions

Relaxation of travel restrictions for those with two vaccine doses – interstate travel and dine-in with conditions now allowed.

In his latest address, Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin has announced
some conditional flexibilities
 under the current Movement Control Order for individuals who have completed two doses of the vaccine in this country. According to him, this flexibility is given by the government so that the people can
gradually return to normalcy
 in their daily lives.

The following criteria have to be met depending on vaccines:

Pfizer, AstraZeneca and Sinovac – travel allowed 14 days after second dosage completion

Johnson & Johnson and CanSino – travel allowed 28 days after dosage completion

Upon meeting the criteria, the following flexibilities are allowed regardless of the various National Recovery Plan’s Phases:

Phase 1 (By State)

Citizens and non-citizens who have a residence in Malaysia are allowed compulsory quarantine at home if they return to Malaysia from abroad (14 days – must have a residence in Malaysia)

Long-distance married couples are allowed to travel across districts or states to meet.

Parents are also allowed across districts or states to meet with children under the age of 18.

Prayer activities are allowed in mosques and suraus – applicable to all phases of NRP, pilgrims are required to show a digital certificate of COVID-19 vaccine.

Non-Muslims can also visit houses of worship - subject to state religious authorities and the Ministry of National Unity for non-Muslims.

Phase 2 (By State)

Interdistrict travel is allowed, just show the vaccine certificate at the SJR.

Dine-in activities are allowed at restaurants and eateries.

Sports and recreational activities without physical contact and not in groups are allowed - jogging, exercise, cycling, skateboarding, archery, tennis, badminton (singles), and the like.

Domestic tourism activities – hotel and homestays allowed.

The easing of restrictions takes effect from the 10th of August 2021, and the National Security Council will release further guidelines of current travel allocations in due course.

Members of the public are
urged to register and get their vaccines
 at the soonest to enjoy the new flexibilities. There are a number of walk-in vaccinations in the Klang Valley if you have not received a vaccination appointment through the MySejahtera portal.

The Prime Minister also said that the government, in its entirety, has been mobilised and is working with the private sector and non-governmental organisations to ensure Malaysia’s population can be vaccinated as soon as possible, and the spread of the virus curbed, especially in the case of the newer and more virulent Delta variant.

With regard to dining-in, the PM has advised the public to only choose it as the final option. He also urged restaurants and food operators to ready outdoor eating areas as locations with better ventilation also help curb the spread of the virus. Strict SOPs must be followed at all times.


BMW Malaysia introduces Tyre Warranty Programme

BMW Group Malaysia has introduced a 24-month tyre warranty programme for all new BMW vehicles sold at its authorised dealerships nationwide from 1
st
 January 2016, becoming the first manufacturer to offer a warranty scheme of its kind in Malaysia.
According to BMW Malaysia, the new Tyre Warranty Programme from the premium automaker is also applicable to all BMW Approved Star-Marked Tyres sold at its dealerships.
Valid for 24 months, the tyre warranty programme, which offers a comprehensive protection on BMW Approved Star-Marked Tyres, covers tyre damage caused by any pointed or sharp objects such as nail or broken glass, or by hitting the edge of a kerb or pothole. The warranty, however, is only applicable if no other existing guarantee or insurance is covering the tyres of the vehicle. The tyre warranty also covers tyre fitment and wheel balancing.
In the case of a claim, the BMW Authorised Dealer will inspect the cause of the damage as well as assess the current market value of the damaged tyre. Depending on the depth of the tread, BMW vehicle owners could be entitled to compensation of up to 100% of the cost of a new tyre. The compensation is also calculated based on the retail price rate of the tyre during the time of change.
For example, if the damaged tyre still has more than 7mm of residual tread depth, no costs would be incurred on the new tyre. In this case, BMW would also absorb the cost for fitment and balancing. Wheel alignment cost and towing charges, however, are not applicable and covered in the programme as with run-flat technology, the need for towing is rare as run-flat tyres can continue to support vehicles for approximately an additional 80km when driven at a maximum speed of 80 km/h.
Compensations for residual tread depth that is from 6.9mm to 6.0mm, 5.9mm to 5.0mm, 4.9mm to 4.0mm and 3.9mm to 3.0mm, meanwhile, are calculated at 80%, 60%, 40% and 20% respectively. However, no compensation will be offered for residual tread depth that is less than 3mm on the damaged tyre as residual tread depth is measured at the shallowest part of the tyre and the safety of a tyre is only as good as its shallowest part, which in turn contributes to the overall safety of the vehicle.
Further to this, entitlement on The BMW Tyre Warranty Programme is only applicable for vehicles driven for personal use and is not applicable to vehicles used for commercial purposes such as car-for-hire, taxi, or any driver car services. The tyre warranty will also automatically and immediately cease upon the sale of any vehicle or star-marked tyre out of Malaysia and with commercial resale.
The BMW Tyre Warranty Programme applies to all four BMW star-marked tyres equipped on a car and is valid within the duration of 24 months from the date of the first registration of the new vehicle, the date upon which the new BMW Star-Marked Tyre was purchased or upon reaching of all four tyre claims – whichever comes first.
The BMW Tyre Warranty Programme attached to the vehicle the tyres are mounted on and is non-transferable if the same tyres are fitted on another vehicle. For replacement tyres or tyres sold at the point of after sales, the Tyre Warranty is valid within the duration of 24 months from the date of purchase from a BMW Authorised Dealer and will cease when a claim is made. Any damage due to normal wear and tear of tyre, as well as tyre defect caused by vehicle owners, their auxiliaries, representatives or their car users’ improper or incorrect use of the tyre are not covered under this new warranty programme.
Other circumstances that are not covered under The BMW Tyre Warranty Programme include participation in driving events with racing characteristics or from test drives in similar characteristics of car-racing; vehicle accidents save for situation abovementioned; changes to the original construction of the vehicle such as tuning or fitting of purchased parts or accessories which are not approved by BMW Group Malaysia; excessive or uneven wear and tear as a result of false adjustment of the track and camber, inaccurate tyre pressure or use of defective bumpers such as saw tooth formation, brake plates, erosion; and use of vehicle for commercial transport of persons or freight such as taxi services, dispatch services, self-driven rental services or building site vehicle rental services.
Find more
BMW cars at Carlist.my
.


Three Reasons Why the Proton X50 is Better than the Geely Binyue

Yes, we can hear you going
“Eh, aren’t they both the same meh?”

Well, technically they are, but fortunately for us, the
Proton X50
which was just
unveiled
 a couple of days ago, is more than just a rebadged Geely Binyue.

The folks at Proton have actually put in some effort to make the
X50
 better than its Chinese twin in a few ways, and more suitable for our market. So, if you are to put the models side-by-side, there are actually a few key differences that make the X50 more worthwhile.

Suspension

In an effort to make the vehicle more suitable for Malaysian roads that are known for our potholes, bumps, and patches, Proton engineers have actually tweaked the suspension of the Proton X50 to give it the brand’s signature ride and handling that would not only make it more comfortable than the Binyue, but also a better handling vehicle.

While we are yet to give the Proton X50 a go as the vehicle will only be launched officially in October, all we have is Proton’s word for now that the X50 offers a better ride, handling, as well as comfort versus the Binyue.

Rear Air-Cond Vent With 2 USB Ports

Moving into the car, there is another major difference between the Geely Binyue and the Proton X50 – the rear air-cond vents. The lack of this feature in the Binyue turned out to be one of the biggest complaints in many markets.

Realising this and our weather condition, Proton did all of us a favour by including rear air-cond vents in the X50 as standard, and that’s not all. Unlike the Geely which only comes with one USB charging port for rear occupants, the X50 actually comes with TWO!

Infinite Weave Front Grille

Proton’s Infinite Weave front grille actually makes the X50 look more modern and a tad sportier than the Binyue, thanks to the red trim that runs across the front fascia.

This may not be a big deal of a difference but it is still the most obvious one and the first one that anyone would notice.

In a nutshell, these are a few subtle yet significant differences between the Geely Binyue and the Proton X50 that promises to make the X50 even better than the Geely. So, the next time someone says that the X50 is just a rebadged Binyue, show them this article.