Proton X50, Iriz, Persona Gets Spotify Music Streaming From Atlas OS

ACO Tech, the software development firm behind the Atlas OS that powers the infotainment suite in the Iriz Persona, and soon-to-be X50, have announced the addition of Spotify music streaming.

After the functionality comes along via an over-the-air (OTA) software update, users will be able to stream music from the popular audio subscription service via a native app accessed via the head unit, regardless of whether the associated account uses the Free or Premium tier,
as was rumoured previously
.

Altas OS got Spotify for X50, Iriz, Persona

This comes after a newly inked partnership with Spotify, which also means that the Spotify app will come pre-installed in new Proton vehicles equipped with an infotainment system running Atlas OS. However, users can also install it via ACO Tech’s app marketplace, the A store.

Spotify is widely regarded as the most popular music streaming service in the world with over 80 million songs and millions of podcasts, some of which are exclusive to the platform. Previously, Proton had included the decent but far from outstanding Joox music as their audio streaming service of choice.

Rather than duplicating their music library to Joox, users would be more likely to listen to audio via Bluetooth to the head unit while
using their mobile device to stream
 from other services such as Apple Music and, yes, Spotify.

ACO Tech’s newest app addition does bring up the question of what others could be added to the roster. Recently, Proton X50 owners have figured out a way (a rather easy one) that allows them to ‘sideload’ apps into Atlas OS, which itself is built on the Android Open Source Project (AOSP).

They’ve even been able to
install and run either Android Auto and/or Apple CarPlay
, something ACO Tech is unlikely to support officially given their reluctance to include it so far.

Will the 2022 Proton X70 also get Spotify support?

Also remember that, while the X50 is due to receive an update to Atlas OS in the near future, it’s unclear when the larger, more expensive, and recently refreshed (for 2022) X70 will get the same treatment.

Do you care about Spotify now receiving official support and being able to run natively on Proton infotainment systems? Or will you still continue to stream music from your smartphone regardless?


Brokerage Commissions For Selling A Proton X50 – Is This A Thing?

A recent thread on the Proton X50 Community Malaysia FB page asks whether it’s fair that people who introduce buyers for a new
Proton X50
 should be entitled to a brokerage commission or not, or if this is common practice?

Truth be told, it is a fair question and I’m sure a number would wonder if they could actually make a little bit of money doing it.

Well, it is one of those unwritten rules, which pretty much is dealt with on a case-to-case basis. The truth is, new and used car sellers have used brokers for a long time to form a bridge between the seller and customer.

In some cases, brokers can be persons that are uniquely connected to the right type of clientele, they could be a go-to person for cars, they may be Sales Advisors (SA) that might have left the industry, but maintain relationships with select buyers or a group of buyers, in other cases – it can be also deals between SAs. Brokerage isn’t unique to just car sales but exists in nearly every facet of business.

In many ways – brokers also help sell the car, whether it be educating the buyer about the car, assistance with connecting them to the SA and dealership, sourcing a car that a particular buyer may want, or managing the aftersales for that particular buyer – therefore brokers do play an important role.

However, the crucial difference we feel with the Proton X50, is that it’s a car that sells itself. With over
25,000 bookings to date
 (and counting) – and more hitting Malaysian roads every day, could some people be taking advantage of a situation, while squeezing the Sales Advisor of his/her hard-earned money?

As a disclaimer, we do not claim to know the job functions or positions of commenters in the thread. Some may be speaking as buyers, sales advisors, or even as observers. We have to exercise caution with regard to claims that some of the responders make, they could be the truth, or not.

Following the thread, left us with three distinct takeaways:

Some SAs don’t mind offering a commission to brokers because they make their sale easier.

Some commenters have said that they have received between RM200 and RM300 for introducing a successful customer. Stating in some cases, the broker may have already sold the idea (or the car) to the buyer and the SA simply has to fill out the paperwork, making the process much faster. In certain cases, the brokers go one step further by collating the required documents of the buyer. One commenter also encouraged people to register as an official broker to learn the processes so that they can successfully seal deals. Some others have said they have received brokerage fees without even having to ask.

Other companies give brokerage fees, why not SAs selling cars?

Some commenters have said that other businesses, such as water filter and phone companies are happy to offer introduction or brokerage fees – why not car companies which sell their products for tens if not hundreds of thousands of ringgit.

While this is true, we should understand that selling a car versus selling a water filtration system is quite different. With massive competition amongst car brands (especially the mass-selling segments) – car companies are forced to work with razor-thin margins to keep their prices attractive to the customer. This is why between the manufacturer, dealer, and SA – it’s a one-time sale, perhaps for the next couple of years, maybe longer. Unlike other businesses, such as water filtration devices and insurance, where profits are earned over a period of time, and therefore tend to operate with better profit margins.

Some brokers are simply too unreasonable

Some of the most vocal commenters say that brokers are simply too unreasonable. In certain cases, the broker is a family member demanding brokerage for the sale of another family member’s vehicle; a husband for a wife, or a sibling for another sibling. In these cases, we feel the brokers are being unfair to the SA. This is because, if a husband and wife both decide to get an
X50
, then that’s very little in the form of convincing the seller – now they’re simply trying to squeeze the SA in hopes of getting a better deal for themselves.

Now, we understand that everyone wants to get a good deal, but buyers must also understand that beyond principal and dealer offers, rebates, or discounts – SAs have to shell out cash from their own pockets to “sweeten the deal”. Sometimes this may include offering tinting packages, Touch’n Go cards, and a full tank of fuel, to even free umbrellas. It’s not much, but it's still cutting into the SAs salary.

Customers must also understand that SA commissions vary based on KPI targets, brand, and model – and they’re normally a reflection of how tough it is to sell the car. Sell a
BMW 7 Series
 and you can bet commissions are handsome, sell a
Perodua Myvi
 though, and commissions are surely much lower. In certain cases, SAs also have to sell a prerequisite number of vehicles before they hit their KPIs and see a decent payday, and this doesn’t happen all the time.

Therefore, taking away what little profits they make, does seem a bit harsh, as one vocal commentator says, customers will never know how tough things can be for SAs until they walk in their shoes.

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.

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Mercedes-Benz new GLS Claims to be an S-Class SUV

Mercedes-Benz has unveiled the latest and biggest addition to their premium SUV range, the GLS. Built as a successor to the massive GL, the GLS is a full-fledged seven-seat SUV for the European premium SUV segment, and measures in at a colossal 5,130mm long, 1,934mm wide, and 1,850mmm tall.
Following Mercedes-Benz’s new SUV naming convention – where the GL denotes a passenger SUV body type and the third alphabet draws a relation to a corresponding passenger car model – the new GLS is touted as the ‘S-Class among SUVs’. That being said there is no denying that this big rig for seven is Mercedes-Benz’s answer to the likes of the Toyota Land Cruiser/Lexus LX and Infiniti QX80.
Compared to its GL predecessor, Mercedes-Benz says that the GLS features improved efficiency, extended Dynamic Select transmission modes, the latest version of their Airmatic air suspension system with an enhanced ADS damping system, and new assistance systems and telematics systems.
When it comes to powertrains, the GLS’s engine range starts from the GLS350d 4MATIC, which has a 258hp/620Nm V6 diesel engine. For petrol lovers, the smallest GLS engine you can afford is the 333hp/480Nm V6 biturbo engine of the GLS400 4MATIC. Topping the conventional Mercedes-Benz range is the GLS500 4MATIC which has a 455hp/700Nm V8 biturbo engine. Regardless of your choice, all these engines come paired to Mercedes-Benz’s nine-speed automatic.
No new Mercedes-Benz model would be complete without an AMG version, and for those who want the ultimate bragging rights, the Mercedes-AMG GLS63 4MATIC which now boasts a power bump of more than 28hp, bringing its power output to 585hp and 760Nm of torque.
As for driver assistance systems, the GLS fitted with the Collision Prevention Assist Plus, Crosswind Assist, Pre-Safe, ESP with Curve Dynamic Assist, Steer Control steering assist function, and Attention Assist as standard. Pick the Driver Assistance package Plus, and Mercedes-Benz will throw its Distronic Plus with Stop&Go Pilot, Pre-Safe Brake with pedestrian detection, BAS Plus with Cross-Traffic Assist, Blind Spot Assist, Active Lane Keeping Assist, and Pre-Safe Plus.
For those who really want to put the GLS through some tough terrain, there is the optional Off-Road Engineering package, which adds an OFF-ROAD+ setting to its Dynamic Select system. This setting allows the SUV to engage its low-range gearbox and centre differential lock when necessary. The package also allows the Airmatic air suspension to be raised to heights of up to 306mm, allowing for a fording depth of up to 600mm.


Hyundai Plans To Build Casper EV - Sub-RM100k EV For City Folks

The Hyundai Casper EV would be the Korean automaker's answer for a sub-RM100k EV.

Undoubtedly, one of Hyundai's most successful models in the last couple of years has been in the form of an electric vehicle (EV). With awards and plaudits globally, Hyundai struck gold when they created the
Ioniq 5
.

Hyundai's plan to make an affordable EV

Realising that there's demand for Hyundai EVs, it seems that the Korean automaker wants to
capitalise on this EV momentum
 that they are on, but this time, they want to make an EV that is accessible to the masses.

Hyundai's European marketing boss Andreas-Christoph Hofmann has told Automotive News Europe that they want to create an EV that is under RM100k (€20,000), and this car will be one of
11 new electric Hyundais
 launched in Europe by 2030.

According to Autoexpress, it's possible that this EV would be an electrified version of the Hyundai Casper, a compact SUV-style city car that is only on sale in South Korea currently.

The Casper is a little SUV with five doors, is roomy enough to comfortably seat four adults, and has a party trick of folding all its chairs totally flat. Currently, it is only sold with a 1.0-litre NA or turbocharged engine (75hp/95Nm or 99hp/172Nm) and is quite fun and easy to drive, according to those who have tried it out.

Hyundai's A-segment EV would go up against the VW ID. Life

The Casper EV would be ideal as it would take the fight to A-segment EVs from the Volkswagen Group, The Volkswagen ID. Life and Cupra UrbanRebel, which is currently under development.

Both VW group EVs is expected to have a range of around 400 kilometres, so the Casper will have to have something close to those reported figures to stand a fighting chance.

Australia might be one of the first countries to get the Hyundai Casper

Australian journalists who were at the
Ioniq 6'
s launch in Seoul recently were pushed towards testing the Casper while they were there, giving hope that an electric version would reach their shores, according to news.com.au.

“If it (the Casper EV) was built, that car would make sense for Australia,” said Hyundai Australia’s Bill Thomas. “The Casper looks fantastic, it’s a great size and it’s a segment that Hyundai has been really good at in Australia in the past", reported news.com.au.


Aston Martin Shows Off Its All-Electric RapidE Concept, Could Produce 1,000hp

Aston Martin
 isn’t the conventional automaker that you’d think is bound by typical deadlines and target indexes, but they seem to have worked very quickly in rolling out an early version of their all-electric
Rapide
 S four-door luxury sports car.
Actually, the actual name is spelled the usual way but with last letter capitalized – Aston Martin Rapid
E
.
It's certainly one big step for the fairly old school (and endearingly so) ethos that Aston has built itself on; mid-mounted front engine, rear-wheel drive, long hood, big V12s and snarly V8s. With the RapidE, the petrol-powered lump is gone, and in its place is a mysterious black box with the name ‘Williams’ emblazoned – looks like they've had some help.
The jump to electric is more of a leapfrog, really. One that skips the typical powerplant roadmap of downsizing, turbocharging, hybrids, or even diesels (like the
Porsche

Panamera
).
Performance figures are yet to be revealed, as is much of any technical data about the car and it’s new propulsion system. The RapidE concept’s reveal in London was held to coincide with the meeting of British royalty and Chinese diplomats, presumably to incite investor interest from China in order to bring an electric Rapide into production. Indeed, the development of this concept was financially aided by an investment partner, Shanghai-based ChinaEquity.
Aston Martin’s CEO Andy Palmer hinted that it could reach showrooms - should everything go as planned - by 2017. He had previously stated the final car could boast an estimated range of 320km on a full charge a power figure of between 800 to 1,000hp, easily trumping every other production EV on the market in 2015. Although, who’s to say that that kind of output won’t be the norm in two years.
“We see luxury electric vehicles as an intrinsic part of our future product portfolio and welcome ChinaEquity into the next phase of study for the project development,” said Palmer. “The exciting RapidE concept tangibly demonstrates the capability and ambition of Aston Martin towards developing low- and zero-emission sports cars.”
“We are aiming to sell around 100 RapidEs a year in China and are pretty sure there will be a demand for cars in those numbers,” he added.
If it does reach production, Aston’s electric RapidE might not have the market of luxury EV saloons to itself. By then, projects sporting similar ambitions from other manufacturers might have beaten it to the punch. Cars like the
Porsche

Mission E
,
BMW
’s
possible i5
, and perhaps even a new or updated version of the
Tesla
 Model S come to mind.


KL Potholes: 700 Complaints (And Fixed?) In 41 Days

Remember in 2016 when City Hall declared their intent to have Kuala Lumpur be pothole-free by 2017? Yes, that happened.

It sure has taken them
a few extra years
, but at least now they’re actually taking active steps toward that goal with the public now having access to a more direct feedback system and their complaints being taken seriously.

DBKL has been swarmed with complaint submissions since opening the official feedback channel on January 7th, as The Star reports, with a total of 1,224 responses tallied as of February 17th ranging from cleanliness to drainage problems, and yes, potholes.

That’s just under a month and a half (41 days) since the public has had a way of expressing their ‘feedback’ on road conditions within Kuala Lumpur - or lack thereof. However, upon whittling down the count to those with an actual valid pothole or pothole-related issues and discounting duplicate complaints, the count dropped to around 700.

The report states that DBKL has managed fix and/or resolve over 77% of pothole issues brought up by the public through that official WhatsApp channel (011 6239 6652), said Azli Shah Ali Bashah, Senior Deputy Director of Civil Engineering and Drainage.

He adds that its mechanism allows authorities to be notified about pothole issues quickly and to “respond in a timely manner”. It also discourages fake complaints due to the service being tied to a valid mobile number and allows DBKL to provide updates when the issue/case/pothole is resolved.

During a virtual roundtable held by Jabatan Penerangan WPKL, DBKL goes on to state that the procedure for potholes that measure less than one square metre is that they are to be rectified within 24 hours of receiving the complaint, provided it has been verified as legitimate.

They also clarified that at least 40% of pothole repairs were carried out by third-party utility contractors hired by City Hall, but that they will be judged upon the quality of their work with poorly patched potholes or shoddily installed underground pipes and cables being grounds for reprimand, “hefty bills”, and the risk of losing their security deposits.

These contractors are also being held accountable to maintain a quick response time, reacting to pothole complaints by promptly scrambling a team to assess and repair the damage with minimal delay.

Meanwhile, at the federal level, The Star reports that over 4,000 public infrastructure complaints have been submitted to the Public Works Department as of November 30th, 2020, with 1,473 of those being related to damaged roads (potholes included). The Works Ministry adds that all complaints have been addressed and
dealt with by JKR
 as of December 31st.


City Hall Allots RM5 Million To Expand Cycle Path Network In KL

In a move to encourage the use of alternative transportation around the city, Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) has set aside RM5 million to the expansion of the capital city's cycle path network which is due for completion by December 2015.
As reported by
Bernama
, DBKL’s deputy managing director Datuk Mohd Najib Mohd said the reasoning for the project was to encourage citizens to use bicycles to get around by providing a safe and comprehensive network of lanes just for their use.
It could either be used to get to a destination (such as work) directly or at least to the nearest rail station. Datuk Mohd Najib said: "For the project in Taman Melati, it has been completed and the public can cycle from their residence to the Taman Melati LRT station,”
"At Taman Metropolitan in Batu Kepong, it is 90% complete," he told reporters after attending the Hari Raya Aidilfitri 'dodol' making programme, held in conjunction with the KL Car Free Morning programme at Dataran DBKL today.
Finally, he added that the larger plan had also been put in place to expand cycle path networks in Cheras and Wangsa Maju, as well.
As well as the aim of
reducing the number of cars on the road
, the use of bicycles would encourage a healthier lifestyle among urban residents and will, hopefully, positively impact the air pollution levels in Kuala Lumpur should the practice be adopted widely.


UMW Toyota Issues Special Service Campaign For Alphard And Vellfire Parking Brake

UMW Toyota Motor Sdn Bhd (UMWT) today announced a Special Service Campaign (SSC) to update the Electronic Control Unit (ECU) of the Electric Parking Brake (EPB) system of certain units of Toyota Alphard and Vellfire. There are around 1,900 units of the two models manufactured from April 2016 to Feb 2018 and distributed by UMWT involved in this campaign.
The condition occurs due to improper programming of the ECU for electric parking brake system. There is the possibility that a voltage reduction during an engine re-start after an idling stop could be judged as an abnormality if the battery has experienced degradation. If this were to occur, a warning light would illuminate and the EPB system may not operate.
UMWT will notify all its affected vehicle owners officially to update the ECU programming at no charge to the customers. The work should take around an hour. For further information, owners of affected cars can contact any authorised Toyota service centre or call the Toyota Freephone at 1800-8-TOYOTA (869682).
Toyota owners can also visit Toyota’s Special Service Campaign webpage through this link:
toyota.com.my
 to check whether their vehicle is involved, through Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) Checker. To those who have uploaded the Toyota Drive Apps, there is also a link to Toyota’s SSC page and the VIN Checker. Information on other vital SSCs is also available on the webpage.


Unparalleled Peace of Mind with Toyota’s 10-Star Care

Among the factors that have made Toyota one of the most trusted car brands in Malaysia is the sense of trust and reliability the products give customers.
However, now that the after-sales services have become just as important as the products themselves, manufacturers have to ensure that it is not only the products that have to satisfy the customers, but also other services revolving around the whole ownership experience.
So, in an effort to not just meet the expectations of its customers but to exceed them, UMW Toyota Motor, the authorised distributor of Toyota vehicles in Malaysia has introduced the ‘Care that Amazes’ 10-star personalized ownership program.
How this program works is that various forms of assistance, benefits and incentives are provided by the company to owners’ right from the moment they walk into the showroom, until many years of owning a Toyota vehicle.
With more than 100 Toyota showrooms around Malaysia to view the latest models, potential owners who have decided to buy a Toyota can sit back and relax as virtually every aspect of the buying process is handled by UMWT and should financing be required, Toyota Capital Services and other financing institutions in the brand’s panel offer various solutions for the individual as well as company.
To top it off, new Toyota vehicles come with a 5-year warranty and unlimited mileage subject to terms and conditions so, the owner enjoys the full 5 years of coverage, providing greater peace of mind. This warranty is transferable to the next owner should the vehicle be sold off within the first five years; this consequently helps maintain the high resale value which Toyota vehicles are renowned for.

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With the 10-star programme, owners can also enjoy the exclusive Toyota 24Seven Road Assist service which provides support in an emergency anywhere in Malaysia. It’s complimentary for the first year with every new Toyota vehicle and is available 24-hours a day, 7 days a week. Toyota vehicles are reliable but sometimes the unexpected can occur – like a flat tyre or an unfortunate accident. In such situations, one call will get assistance which includes towing services to the nearest authorised Toyota service centre.
Throughout the ownership of the Toyota vehicle, the owner can call on UMWT to assist in renewal of roadtax and insurance. Should he or she fancy adding Toyota Genuine Accessories, these are also available while any damage to the vehicle can be professionally repaired at any of the nationwide Toyota Body & Paint Centres. All repairs come with a 1-year warranty for the parts used, subject to terms and conditions.
The authorised Toyota service centre network covers the entire nation to choose from for the convenience of customers. A Customer Support team is also available to provide assistance in special situations so that disruption to the owner’s mobility is minimised.
While many think of UMWT for new Toyota vehicles, TopMark (a wholly-owned subsidiary of UMWT) also offers top-quality pre-owned Toyota vehicles. This is the best place to purchase pre-owned Toyota vehicles as they have been thoroughly checked (even to the extent of whether there are any encumbrances like unsettled H-P ownership) and are almost as good as buying a new unit. A minimum 1-year warranty (subject to term and conditions) is also provided for extra peace of mind, something which is not always offered to used car buyers.
In this connected age, most people now rely on smartphones not just to make calls but to get information via the internet. UMWT provides all the necessary information via its free mobile app known as Toyota Drive which is applicable for both iOS and Android smartphones. For those who register with UMWT, there is also access to their service history and they can conveniently make appointments for servicing while on the move.
For information on Toyota product and services in Malaysia, please visit the
official website
 or call the Toyota Freephone at 1800-8-TOYOTA (869682)


Honda Payung Rupa Baharu CR-V 2023 – Lebih Agresif, Lebih Sporty

Honda telah menyiarkan imej rasmi bahagian hadapan dan belakang Honda CR-V 2023 untuk pasaran Amerika, menandakan pelancarannya di peringkat global sudah tidak lama lagi.

Walau bagaimanapun, gambar tersebut hanya menampilkan separuh sahaja daripada bahagian hadapan dan belakang
SUV
 tersebut. Walau bagaimanapun, The Ajerul telah menggunakan teknik ‘
mirror’
 pada gambar tersebut dan berkongsi di Facebook untuk memberikan gambaran rupa penuh model tersebut.

*Kredit foto: The Ajerul

Apa Yang Anda Perlu Tahu Tentang Honda CR-V 2023

Walaupun imej penuh model ini sudah dibocorkan sebelum ini, namun imej rasmi yang dikeluarkan Honda ini sedikit sebanyak memberi petuntuk berkenaan perincian sebenar kereta ini apabila dilancarkan kelak.

*Kredit foto: The Ajerul

Exterior

Reka bentuk hadapan yang lebih agresif dengan penambahan perincian kemasan krom di bahagian bawah bampar hadapan dengan garisan berbentuk C di bahagian hujungnya, kemasan gril berbentuk hexagon, lampu DRL nipis yang memanjang di atas lampu utama LED.

Bahagian belakang pula, lampu belakang dengan rekaan baharu berbentuk-L pada CR-V 2023 ini membuatkan ia kelihatan seperti sebuah model Volvo. Rekaan perumah tip ekzos kereta ini juga disekalikan pada bampar.

Cermin sisi kini diletakkan pada bahagian panel pintu kereta seperti kebanyakan model terkini Honda.

CR-V generasi baharu ini direka dengan konsep garis badan sama seperti HR-V generasi ketiga.

Enjin Dan Prestasi

Honda CR-V 2023 ini bakal hadir dengan sistem hibrid yang lebih canggih yang menawarkan pemanduan yang lebih sporty seperti sistem hibrid e:HEV di
Civic
 yang menawarkan 184 PS dan 315 Nm tork.

Model CR-V sedia ada di AS sudah dilengkapi dengan sistem
hibrid i-MMD
 yang menggabungkan enjin 2.0 liter NA yang berfungsi sebagai penjana untuk menggerakkan motor elektrik.

Mungkin ia bakal memperkenalkan output kuasa yang lebih tinggi dengan bateri yang lebih besar atau memperkenalkan versi plug-in hybrid seperti di pasaran China ke pasaran global.

Untuk versi petrol biasa, Honda dijangka bakal menawarkan enjin turbo sama iaitu 1.5L VTEC Turbo yang menghasilkan 193 HP dan 243 Nm tork dengan transmisi CVT yang dipancarkan sama ada pada
FWD atau AWD
.

Interior?

Sayangnya, masih tiada satu pun gambar interior Honda CR-V 2023 ini dibocorkan, tidak kiralah dari sumber rasmi mahupun tidak. Apa-apa pun, kemungkinan besar bahagian dalamannya juga akan diperbaharui sepenuhnya dengan kemasan yang lebih moden.

Tarikh Pelancaran

Selain perincian lanjut, tarikh pelancaran model ini di peringkat global juga masih menjadi tanda tanya. Namun ia dijangka membuat kemunculan rasmi pada suku ketiga tahun ini dan penghantarannya dijangka bermula pada suku keempat tahun ini.


Porsche To Establish CKD Factory In Malaysia?

With the COVID-19 pandemic starting to tarnish most of our best laid plans for the second year in a row, there was little reason to believe that a move like this would have even been on the table. But here we are with a recent report that seemingly sheds light on Porsche’s exciting plans for Malaysia.

According to
The Edge
, citing unnamed sources familiar with the matter, the Zuffenhausen-based automaker is apparently laying down plans to set up an assembly plant here to both engage in the usual CKD-type operations as well as strengthen their foothold in the region by acting as
their Southeast Asian hub
.

This would mark a major investment in Malaysia’s automotive sector as well as being a very significant sign of confidence in its long term growth potential given that it will be the first Porsche factory ever to be located outside Germany.

Seeing as how Thailand and Indonesia have served as regional centres for various other major automakers, it’s very encouraging to see Malaysia’s importance rise in Porsche's eyes. After all, we already have
locally assembled AMGs
 and
BMW (sub) M cars
.

Porsche’s Malaysian presence has been handled for the past decade by local distributors
Sime Darby Auto Performance
, and the aforementioned report states that Inokom Corp (a subsidiary of Sime Darby Bhd) will be the marque’s primary partner in their local assembly efforts.

Currently, Inokom’s facility in Kulim, Kedah is responsible for the CKD rollout of various models from Mazda, BMW, and Hyundai. While it is likely that a new factory will be built solely for use by Porsche, it will probably remain within the same area.

Should this come to pass, it would definitely mean that certain Porsches models sold here will be priced more attractively than they are at the moment, which has always lead to a stronger sales uptake, but then again we very much doubt that their full line-up will be designated for local assembly, at least initially. It’s fair to get your hopes a little elevated for
Macans
 and
Cayennes
 priced more sharply, however.

Of course, while very exciting, none of these details have been confirmed officially, and we’ll be keeping a sharp eye for new developments on this story as it happens.

For more latest car news, reviews, car buying guides and videos visit us at Carlist.my
Auto News
.

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Carlist.my.

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Malaysia Autoshow 2017 Attracts 255k Visitors; 2018 Show Confirmed For April

The recently-concluded
Malaysia Autoshow 2017
 attracted a crowd of 255,000 over a four-day period from 9 to 12 November, according to the Malaysia Automotive Institute (MAI), organizer of the show.
Held at the Malaysia Agro Exposition Park Serdang (MAEPS), this year’s show witnessed launches of the
Honda Civic Type R (FK8)
 and the
Toyota Harrier
, whilst the likes of the
Kia Stinger
,
Renault Megane GT
,
Land Rover Discovery
, and the
recently-launched

Perodua Myvi
 were all previewed for the first time in the Malaysian market at the event.
Participating brands also made available their range of cars for visitors to test drive around a 3km route in MAEPS. Additional activities included off-road 4x4 experiences by Toyota and Land Rover, as well as a demo of
Honda Sensing
 technology with the
all-new CR-V
.
Datuk Madani Sahari, CEO of MAI, announced that the 2018 edition of the Malaysia Autoshow is confirmed and will once again take place at MAEPS on 12 to 15 April.
Explaining the show’s radical shift in timing from end- to mid-year, Madani said that the intention is to avoid clashing dates with established international motorshows that typically happen toward the end of the year, thereby paving the way for car makers to bring in more attractive concept vehicles to put on display. He reveals that MAI are already working together with a number of brands for this purpose.
“The success of the Malaysia Autoshow 2017 signifies the commitment of the industry and the participation of the people in the nation’s automotive sector. Next year, we aim to create a more comprehensive showcase for a larger number of visitors to the autoshow,” Madani said.
Finally, Madani also declared that MAI aims to continue growing the Malaysia Autoshow and targets to achieve a visitor-count of 3 million by 2022.


Malaysia Borders To Reopen March 1st, Says Muhyiddin. Good Idea?

Malaysia’s National Recovery Council (NRC) has agreed to fully
reopen the country’s international borders
 on March 1st to all countries, according to a statement made by its chairman, former Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin.

That being said, while the NRC’s blessing is a significant motivator, the decision ultimately falls onto the cabinet, which is responsible for executing the order or possibly delaying it.

The country has been partially closed to international travellers, with some exceptions made on a case-by-case basis and only to certain approved countries, since early 2020 shortly after the implementation of
the original Movement Control Order (MCO)
.

The council's move was ultimately given the nod in order to support the country’s economic recovery despite the health ministry’s prediction that the spike in positive Covid-19 cases due to the Omicron strain would peak later in the next month.

“This means tourists can visit, investors can come in. The number of tourists will increase, and the tourism industry can recover […] The aviation industry can recover … and shops that depend on tourists will have increased business. We believe this decision is a good one but at the same time we have to make sure that the SOPs are adhered to,”
 he said.

Tan Sri Muhyiddin, who ironically did test positive for the virus a day later after making the statement on behalf of the NRC (get well soon!), noted that those entering the country once borders were reopened would have to undergo mandatory health and Covid-19 screening upon arrival, adding "the opening of the nation's borders needs to be done accordingly and based on current risk assessment.”

It was hinted that the quarantine period will be reduced or no longer be required after March 1st following the proposed full border reopening. However, confirmation of this is forthcoming as the NRC will be issuing full details on the requirements and SOPs “soon”.

Currently, foreign travellers to Malaysia are met with a mandatory 7-day quarantine period while partially or non-vaccinated individuals are required to quarantine for 10 days. International visitors with booster shots can have that shaved down to just 5 days.

Since facing the pandemic, Malaysia has recorded over 2.9 million cases and over 32,000 deaths. However, some 98% of the country’s adult population has been fully vaccinated with over 54% of that already receiving a 3rd booster shot.

Does that mean I can finally start
planning a road trip
 into Thailand?


Mazda Celebrates 30th Anniversary Of MX-5 With 3,000 Special Units

Can you believe that the Mazda MX-5 is finally out of its twenties? This year, one of the most world-renowned roadsters turns 30 years old, and for that Mazda is creating just 3,000 Anniversary Edition MX-5s, split between soft-top and retractable hard-top (RF) models. There are more than 1 million examples of the MX-5 out there in the wild, including various special edition limited run models in the past.
The gorgeous paint colour for this limited run MX-5 is known as Racing Orange, and it's exclusive to the Anniversary Edition. The wheels are also a special collaboration between Mazda and Rays Co. Ltd, being forged aluminium in construction and based on the ZE40 10-spoke family of wheels. There are also a couple of badges around the vehicle to denote its limited run nature, but for the most part it is mechanically unchanged.
Can you buy one of these here? Only 500 units were allocated to the United States and they were snapped up a mere 4 hours after announcement. These limited run models ran for roughly USD 5,000 (RM 20,362) over the base model price, so you can expect it to be fairly pricey if Bermaz does decide to grab a couple of units before they're totally run out.
Mazda believes that the MX-5 is now as much a part of the community as it is a Mazda product given the love people have shown over four generations of this compact roadster, and hopefully there are many more to come. We're also currently waiting for the facelifted MX-5 to arrive here, which boasts increased outputs and sharper handling - hopefully our local Mazda fans won't have to wait much longer.


Heavier Punishment, Lower Permissible Alcohol Level, JPJ to Turun Padang to Curb Drunk Driving

Besides the battle for supremacy between the coalitions, one of the most anticipated outcomes from the ongoing Dewan Rakyat session is the fate of drunk driving.

According to Transport Minister, Datuk Seri Dr Wee Ka Siong, drunk drivers will be looking at longer mandatory jail time and higher fines if proposed amendments are given the green light in parliament.

Among the proposed amendments include increasing prison sentences for those causing death or injury due to drink driving, from 10 to 15 years and increasing fines up to RM100,000.

Currently, the maximum sentence for those found to have exceeded the permissible alcohol limit and causing death or injury under Section 44, is 10 years.

If the amendment goes through, the 10-year jail sentence will be increased to 15 years for first time offenders and 20 years for a subsequent conviction.

The amendment will also see an increase in the current maximum fine of RM20,000 up to RM100,000, and that is not all.

While those convicted can get their driving licence suspended for 20 years instead of the current 10 years suspension, the proposed amendments also seeks to impose mandatory jail time under Section 45A for those convicted while driving above the permissible alcohol levels.

Dr Wee also said that amendments will also see the lowering of permissible alcohol levels detected in drivers through breathalyser, urine and blood tests in line with World Health Organisation (WHO) standards.

The current levels adopted by the country stands at 35 micrograms of alcohol in 100 millilitres of breath, 80 milligrams of alcohol in 100 millilitres of blood or 107 milligrams of alcohol in 100 millilitres of urine.

This will be lowered to 22 micrograms of alcohol in 100 millilitres of breath, 50 milligrams of alcohol in 100 millilitres of blood or 67 milligrams of alcohol in 100 millilitres of urine.

Dr Wee said the stiffer penalties under the proposed amendments will also cover those driving under the influence of drugs and reckless driving.

Beside the police, it is said that the Road Transport Department (JPJ) would also be carrying out enforcements to curb this issue in the near future.

As harsh as it may sound, we feel that this is a necessary measure that needs to be taken as soon as possible to prevent drivers from being irresponsible, as it is people’s lives that are on the line. If you fancy a few drinks, use a ride-sharing app or designate a driver who doesn't drink.

So, before our roads become a chaotic warzone, it is best that these amendments come into play and instil some good behaviour among our drinkers.

As mentioned by Dr.Wee, “We are not against drinking, but only the act of drinking and driving”.

Be safe and just Grab your way home. It is not worth the risk.


Geely invests RM1.3 billion in Aston Martin, shares jumped 25%

Aston Martin
's stock got one heck of a 25% jump following
Geely
's latest investment which resulted in Geely becoming the brand's third-largest shareholder to date.

The investment, totaling £234 million (around RM1.32 billion), doubled Geely's stake in the company as they are set to acquire approximately 42 million ordinary shares from Aston Martin's largest stakeholder, Chairman Lawrence Stroll's Yew Tree (Aston's current largest shareholder).

Additionally, Geely will subscribe to another 28 million shares at the same price, generating around RM65 million in cash for the British firm. This news propelled Aston Martin shares to trade at 231.2 pence (around RM21.09) per unit - a significant rise from their previous closing price of 267.8 pence (around RM20.01) on Wednesday, reaching as high as 288 pence (around RM22.68).

This investment represents a crucial step toward securing its long-term future and reducing its net debt, which stood at approximately RM4.78 billion at the end of March. Earlier this month, Aston Martin stated that 2023 would be a pivotal year for 'capital spending'.

With this newly added investment, Geely will hold a 17% stake in Aston Martin and will be entitled to one board seat, ranking behind Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund (PIF), Aston's second-largest shareholder.

Aston Martin anticipates improved profitability this year, especially with the commencement of deliveries for its next-generation sports cars in the third quarter.


Honda Plans To Kill All VTECs and Hybrids By 2040

Honda has announced a resolute claim during its recent CEO Press Conference to eliminate all forms of internal combustion engines across its product range by 2040, in an effort to achieve carbon neutrality for all products and corporate activities Honda is involved in by 2050. This would mean not only its petrol and diesel-powered cars – but include its motorcycle, and power products as well.

This new company directive supersedes another shorter-term
announcement made in 2017
, which aimed to offer electrified powertrains in two-thirds of European cars sold by 2025.

The company’s claim is not without a daring plan – as they hope to shift from traditional fossil fuels to electricity and hydrogen fuel cell technology to power the company’s many products and applications. Another major emphasis of the directive is to achieve zero traffic collision fatalities in Honda cars and bikes by 2050 – this will be achieved through the company’s “Omnidirectional” advanced driver assistance systems
(ADAS) technology
.

What’s the plan?

Honda plans to achieve carbon neutrality for all products and corporate activities by 2050, so it’s not just the cars, however, the cars and bikes are a substantial contributor to the company’s overall carbon footprint. The new initiatives will build on three key principles:

Carbon neutrality

Clean energy

Resource circulation

In addition to the electrification of Honda motorcycle and automobile products, it will expand the range of electrified products with the Honda Mobile Power Pack swappable battery and expand the utilization of renewable energy by enabling infrastructure-linked smart power operations. For the further expansion of the use of renewable energy, it will also promote the
utilization of hydrogen
.

Honda will strive to realize a “multi-pathway of energy”, i.e.: utilizing a wide variety of energy sources including carbon-neutral fuels, which will be effective in all areas, including where electrification is difficult, such as with aircrafts. Honda is additionally pursuing research on material recycling (such as batteries) and developing products made from 100 percent sustainable materials.

Another focus is building the infrastructure of future mobility; dubbed Honda eMaaS (electric Mobility as a Service) – this involves connecting the network across all its products to realise complete mobility for its users.

The death of the hallowed VTEC name...

Having garnered a sublime reputation for building some of the
best internal combustion power units
 in the world for its cars and bikes – Honda's new goal will do away with almost all the products and
technologies
 that are lauded the world over.

The company plans to achieve carbon-free “tank-to-wheel” mobility. For this, it plans to increase the ratio of battery-electric vehicles (EVs) and fuel cell electric vehicles (FCVs) within overall unit sales in all major markets of electrification combined to 40% by 2030, to 80% by 2035, and then to 100% globally by 2040.

Honda and GM are jointly developing two large-sized EV models using General Motors’s (GM) Ultium batteries. Honda plans to introduce these models to the North American market in 2024 vehicles, one from Honda, the other Acura.

Starting in approximately 2025, Honda will launch a series of new EV models which adopt
e:Architecture
, a completely new EV platform led by Honda. These EV models will first be introduced to the North American market, and then to other regions of the world.

In China, the company plans to further strengthen its collaboration with battery-supplier CATL to accelerate its EV product introductions in the region – this will see the introduction of 10 Honda-brand EV models within five years. The first of the 10 models, is a mass-production model based on the
Honda SUV e:prototype
 scheduled to go on sale in Q2 of 2022.

In its home market of Japan, will see the introduction of an EV model in the K-car segment in 2024. Elsewhere, the company is also conducting independent research on all-solid-state batteries as the next-generation batteries which will realize high capacity and low cost.

Honda plans to undertake the verification of production technology using a demonstration line, starting this fiscal year. They will begin accelerating this research with an aim to make all-solid-state batteries available for new models to be introduced in the second half of the 2020s.

Honda motorcycles

As for their motorcycles products – Honda's immediate approach will include not only electrification but also the improvement of the fuel efficiency of gasoline engines, and utilization of biofuels.

The company believes the electrification of motorcycle products is to consider the battery, which is still expensive, separately from the motorcycle. In developed countries, Honda will pursue electrification through a Mobile Power Pack for B2B customers. For personal-use customers, Honda plans to leverage battery-swapping stations. To this end, it plans to work with other motorcycle OEMs in Japan and Europe, respectively, to develop technology standards for swappable batteries. These power packs will eventually find use even in power products and micro-mobility products.

Hydrogen Fuel Cells

As for Fuel Cell technology, Honda aims to continue collaborating with GM to expand its lineup of
fuel cell vehicles
, and widen its applications to include commercial trucks as well as both stationary and movable power sources.

Advanced Driver Assistance Systems

In line with its 2050 goal of eliminating deaths in Honda bikes and cars – the company aims to deploy omnidirectional ADAS to all new automobile models that are introduced in developed countries by 2030.

By leveraging on the research and development amassed of their
Level 3 automated driving technologies
, Honda will further enhance the intelligence of ADAS systems by increasing the percentage of collision patterns and scenarios that can be detected and responded to keep users safe.


Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution Final Edition For The US Market: Limited To Just 1,600 Units

As we bid goodbye to the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution with the announcement of the
Final Edition
, tears of joy and sadness trickled down our faces as we watched the
production process of said limited-edition model
.
Only 1,000 right-hand drive examples were originally said to be produced for the Japan domestic market but now, Mitsubishi Motors North America have declared that 1,600 left-hand drive units will be up for grabs, each individually numbered.
Priced from $37,995 (RM165,418) the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution Final Edition is based off the current GSR model, with enhancements made to the exterior, interior, and overall vehicle performance, almost similar to those found on the JDM model.
Under the hood, you’ll find the familiar the 4B11T 2.0-litre turbocharged MIVEC engine developing 303hp at 6,500 rpm and slightly less torque than the JDM model with 413Nm of torque at 4,000 rpm. The transmission fitted here is a five-speed manual gearbox. The acclaimed Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC) all-whell drive system handles the dispersion of power, further assisted by the car’s Active Yaw Control (AYC), Active Center Differential (ACD), and Active Stability Control (ASC).
New Eibach coil springs and Bilstein dampers form part of the handling package upgrade, which also includes two-piece ventilated Brembo brake rotors at the front.
On the exterior changes, a ‘Final Edition’ badge on the rear boot lid serves as an identification of the limited-edition model, which can be ordered in four colours: Octane Blue, Rally Red, Mercury Gray, and a new Pearl White. All colours will come with a black painted aluminium roof as well as other highlights, including a gloss black center bumper (with dark chrome front grille surround) and hood air outlet, plus dark chrome painted Enkei alloy wheels.
The cabin also gets its fair share of changes as well with a gloss black center console box that has a production serial number plaque (US0001 to US1600) located just in front of the gear shifter. Red contrast stitching is also see on the sports seats, steering wheel, shift knob, console lid, floormats, and e-brake handle. Unfortunately, there are no Recaro seats for the US market model.


Hyundai unveils the boldly transformed All-New Santa Fe

Hyundai Motor Company has just unveiled the exhilarating all-new Santa Fe, a fifth-generation midsize SUV that wants to take you on an epic journey.

Breaking away from convention
, the powerful-looking new SUV has undergone a lifestyle-based design overhaul, making it the ultimate companion for both urban and outdoor escapades, while catering to the latest trends shaped by big data.

The all new Santa Fe features a robust, yet delicately detailed exterior design, accentuated by a high hood, bold fenders, and the striking H-shaped headlamps that create an air of grandeur. Inspired by the great outdoors, the all-new Santa Fe flaunts its adventurous spirit with a boxy shape and a distinctive silhouette, courtesy of its lengthened wheelbase and wide tailgate area.

Hyundai wants this SUV to command attention with a unique presence, perfectly harmonizing style and functionality.

The all-new Santa Fe also boasts a cleverly designed, extended tailgate that opens up a world of possibilities. This feature transforms the rear into a terrace-like haven, where it invites owners to relish the great outdoors whenever they please.

Its fully foldable second- and third-row seats
 offer unmatched flexibility, providing best-in-class interior space for you to unleash your wanderlust with ease.

On the inside, The new Santa Fe was designed to feature a refined interior that complements the SUV's rugged exterior. Emphasizing horizontal and vertical lines, the dashboard and air vents are adorned with the iconic H-motif design, offering a sense of openness and a unique sensibility.

The Panoramic Curved Display elevates the experience with a seamless connection between the 12.3-inch digital cluster and infotainment system, delivering both luxury and enhanced visibility for the driver.

Crafted with sustainable materials, the all-new Santa Fe makes a statement not just in nature but in urban settings too. From brightly coloured seats to soft-touch wood-patterned garnish and delicate Nappa leather seats with intricate embroidery, every detail exudes sophistication and style.

Inspired by the beauty of natural light, both the interior and exterior colours breathe life into the all-new Santa Fe, infusing every drive with inspiration and vitality. Whether you're navigating the city streets or venturing into the great outdoors, this SUV is ready to embrace every adventure with open arms.

Excitement is building, and the world eagerly awaits the all-new Santa Fe's grand premiere in August on Hyundai's YouTube channel. The all-new Santa Fe should set new standards for Korean SUVs and captures the hearts of adventurers and thrill-seekers worldwide.


Volkswagen Restores Its 1987 Twin-Engine Pikes Peak Rally Legend

As it lined-up at the starting line, it looked ordinary – no gaping air dam, no humongous wing tacked to its rear, even the wheels looked like came straight from the factory. But, once the green flag dropped for its timed run at the 1987 Pikes Peak Hillclimb rally, this Golf 2 proved it was anything but ordinary.
Pikes Peak, also known as "The Race to the Clouds" is an annual event which takes place in Colorado Springs, in the U.S., where seasoned teams and battle-hardened drivers race immensely powerful cars and bikes up a gruelling 20 km stretch of mountain road to the peak of the mountain - climbing 1,440 m from the start on Pikes Peak Highway, to the finish, some 4,300 meters above sea level.
Volkswagen took part in 1985, 1986 and in 1987, with this radical twin-engined Golf 2.
Leading up to the 1987 race, driver Jochi Kleint achieved the fourth best training time having only driven with one of the Golf's two engines.
During the race, however, disaster struck. From the start, the Golf 2 maintained a promising position, and seemed set to achieve the fastest time, when a crack formed next to a lubrication nipple on a swivel joint, leading to suspension failure, just a few corners from the finish line.
The 1987 Pikes Peak Hillclimb was the last year Volkswagen participated in the event, after which the rare and bizarre Golf 2 race car was laid to rest in Volkswagen's Museum in Wolfsburg, Germany.
Until now.
Some 30 years later, Volkswagen commisioned a full-restoration of the Golf 2, to pay homage to the company's earlier attempts at Pikes Peak Hillclimb and to serve as an ambassador for its renewed attack on the event this year.
Under its rather docile exterior sat two longitudinally-mounted 1.8-litre 16-valve Golf 2 GTi engines (one at the front, another at the rear), force-fed by two KKK turbochargers (one per engine) – synchronised in metallic harmony to produce 652 PS and propel it from a standstill to 100 km/h in just 3.4 seconds.
Each KKK turbocharger developed 1.6 bar of boost pressure
Both engines were also equipped with their own Hewland racing transmissions (operated by one gear lever), which meant the Golf could be driven with four-wheel drive, or with solely front-wheel or rear-wheel drive.
Despite carrying two engines and two gearboxes, the Pikes Peak Golf 2 weighed just 1,020 kgs.
Head mechanic Jörg Rauchmaul is responsible for coordinating the restoration. A task which led him to the race car's constructor Kurt Bergmann, who originally developed this radical machine for the 1987 race in just six months.
During the restoration process – Rauchmaul sought Kurt Bergmann’s advice, to truly understand the engineering design of the vehicle, and data relating to the technology. The objective was to make the car roadworthy again, without altering its originality.
The extremely high thermal loads involved in racing had badly affected the 30-year-old Golf. Adding to that, most of the rubber parts, which had disintegrated over time, had to be custom fabricated. By far the biggest surprise, during the restoration, was finding out safety-relevant foam cladding in the fuel tank had disintegrated, and got sucked into the fuel supply system (which would have destroyed the specially-adapted Digifant fuel injection system) when attempts were made to restart the vehicle.
Finally, both engines had to be tuned to each other in such a way, that they work synchronously to provide power, otherwise the vehicle will be unstable and impossible to control on asphalt.
Rauchmaul is aiming for a more conservative 500 PS from the two engines, in view of planned heritage races for the Golf 2.
For this, the refreshed engine cooling system must work flawlessly. The Golf 2 relies on a sophisticated radiator sprinkler system for the rear engine. During racing, where temperatures would hit 60-degrees, Bergmann originally devised a radiator sprinkler system which would spray water from two little nozzles onto the small radiators as soon as the rear engine’s critical temperatures were reached.
Rauchmaul explains, “The Golf should be reliable and fast, but also durable. That’s why we won’t be pushing the engines to their limit, that would be a crime.”
This June, Volkswagen will return to the iconic Pikes Peak Hillclimb challenge with its carbon-clad
Volkswagen I.D. R racer
, powered by two electric motors, producing a total of 680 hp.
Though worlds apart - both machines push the boundaries of technical ingenuity and vehicle engineering. From twin-engines in the Golf 2 to twin-motors in the I.D. R race car, the formula for power and progress rings true today, as it did 31 years ago.


Tyres for Dummies

Walk into any shoe shop and you will find that there are a bewildering variety of shoes to choose from these days. Shoes for running, shoes for playing sports with, or even shoes for going trekking into the countryside with. Most shoes a fit for purpose and are easily identified by the shape and tread patterns on its sole.
Like shoes, tyres aren’t identical looking hoops of black rubber, but extensively engineered components that are designed for a specific purpose. There are tyres that optimised to offer the vehicle’s occupants a more comfortable ride, or deliver drivers an improve fuel efficiency. This is why there are so many types of tyres to choose from your local tyre dealer, as each tyre type would affect a car’s handling, performance, comfort, and fuel consumption characteristics.
Performance tyres for example, tend to have large and flat surfaces that allow the tyre to deliver better road holding and cornering grip, which is ideal for high performance and sports cars. Low rolling resistance tyres on the other hand are made to allow the tyre to maintain its rolling momentum when the car is moving and thus improve the car’s fuel efficiency. There are even tyres that have softer side walls to give a more cushioning ride and tread patterns that reduce noise from the road, which are specifically suited for big luxury cars where passenger comfort is key.
SUVs and pick-up trucks have dedicated tyres as these vehicles require tyres that are tough enough to handle its weight, as well as any terrain that would have otherwise punctured the thin structure found on ordinary passenger cars road tyres. For the more adventurous types there are off-road tyres that feature deep grooves and rubber blocks that protrude out of the tyre sides, enabling the tyres to deliver grip to pull itself out of any slippery or muddy situation. While these off-road tyres are ideal for driving through mud and rocky surfaces, such tyres generate a lot of noise and cause passenger discomfort when driven on the road.
Making Sense of Numbers – Understanding Tyre Markings
After picking a tyre that would best suit your vehicle and your demands, the next step is to choose an appropriately sized tyre that would fit the vehicle’s wheels. You might have seen the familiar markings on a tyre’s sidewall, such as 205 60 R15 91H, or a different set of numbers that were printing in the same format. Understanding the meaning behind these codes will help you in picking out the right set of tyres for your vehicle.
The first three sets of numbers are fairly well understood by many and is a very basic knowledge that drivers should know.
The first three numbers (in this example – 205) specifies the width of the tyres in millimetres. It can range from 125 to 335 millimetres. High performance cars have wider tyres fitted on the axles that are driving the car, for better traction.
The second set of numbers (in this example – 60) is the height-to-width ratio, also known as the aspect ratio. This particular tyre has an aspect ratio of 60, so its sidewalls are 60 percent the width of the tyre.
High performance tyres usually have a low aspect ratio number, indicating that it has a very thin sidewall, commonly known as low-profile tyres. Low profile tyres are able to resist sidewall deformation better during hard cornering, but depending on vehicles, it may result in poorer ride comfort.
The next figure refers to the rim diameter, which is measured in inches. They typically range from 14 to 19. The meaning of the alphabets on the other hand, are less well understood.
Determining the Construction of the Tyre and its Abilities
The letter R indicates that the tyre is uses radial-type construction. All modern tyres on sale today are radial tyres, where textile cords of the casing are arranged at right angles to the tyre’s running direction.
Tyres with an additional F letter behind the R indicates run-flat tyres, a type of puncture resistant tyre commonly used in many high-end European cars, which are able to continue driving at a limited speed (usually not more than 80km/h for a distance of around 200km if the vehicle is carrying only two adults with no loads) even after suffering a puncture.
The alphanumeric code 91 H refers to its speed and load rating. The numbers indicate its load rating – the maximum load the tyres can support when properly inflated.
In this case, the tyre’s load index number of 91 indicates that it can support a maximum load of 615kg. A smaller tyre with a load index of 1 can support up to 46kg.
The letter H refers to its speed rating. H-rated tyres can go up to 210km/h. The highest rating (Y)-rated tyres can go over 300km/h.
Identifying a Tyre’s Origin
There’s also another set of numbers indicating the tyre’s manufacturing plant, brand, tread pattern as well as its month and year of manufacture.
Next is the Department of Transport (DOT). The code 5M RL YB H 1515 indicates that the tyre is manufactured at the Hankook’s Geumsan plant (code 5M), made by Hankook (brand code H) in the fifteenth week of year 2015 (1515).
The remaining codes RL and YB refers to its size and tread pattern code.
Below is the range of Hankook tyres available for Malaysia.
For more information about Hankook tyres, visit
www.hankooktire.com/global/tires-services.html
 or follow them at their official Facebook page at
www.facebook.com/hankooktiremalaysiasdnbhd
.
Read also
Hankook - 74 Years of Excellence


Renault Unveils EZ-Pro Concept, The Driverless 1-Tonne Lorry Of The Future

Renault has unveiled the EZ-Pro, an autonomous, electric, connected and shared robo-pod concept at the ongoing 2018 Hanover Motor Show.
The EZ-Pro, which is basically a light commercial vehicle (LCV) of the future, consists of an autonomous leader pod and driverless robo-pods.
While the leader pod hosts a human concierge who supervises the delivery of goods and services and its fleet, the fleet of driverless robo-pods either follow each other by platooning or can move independently.
According to Renault, the EZ-Pro releases operators from the constraints of driving, and lets them focus on value-added tasks, such as supervising the itinerary planning and driverless robo-pods, or ensuring efficient and customized service, such as in-person, premium delivery of groceries or fragile objects.
Featuring a joystick controller and easy-to-manoeuvre four-wheel steering system, the EZ-Pro features customizable modules that meet a wide variety of specific business customer needs.
Customers will be able to choose a convenient delivery time and location of their choice, and also choose between receiving his parcel by the concierge or accessing self-service lockers in the driverless robo-pods. These lockers, accessible 24/7, can be opened by the recipient via a mobile phone application.
The shipping solution for consumers will also feature real-time tracking options via mobile with alert services for an even smoother delivery experience.
According to Renault, last mile delivery makes up 30% of traffic in cities - a burden which the EZ-Pro can help relieve in the future thanks to its shared shipping delivery solution, flexibility and autonomous driving.
The company says that these will contribute to fewer vehicles on the road during rush hour, and fewer traffic jams caused by poor driving habits or badly parked delivery vehicles, and that a smooth traffic flow will be further enhanced by connecting the robo-vehicle to city infrastructures like traffic lights and traffic control centre.


Rare (E31) BMW 850 CSi Sells For USD 185k At Auction

Yes, you read that right, USD 185,000. Or roughly USD 70k more than a brand new
8 Series Coupe
 costs in the US for a rare, low mileage (E31) BMW 850 CSi recently auctioned off at RM Sotheby’s Auction in conjunction with the 2019 Amelia Island Concours d'Elegance.
This particular 850 CSi, was one of 144 vehicles, presented as part of RM Sotheby’s Youngtimer Collection. The 850 CSi, not to be confused with the 850 Ci, featured additional upgrades, chief of which, was substantially modified V12 engine– which gained and extra 200 CCs (to 5.6 litres) and an additional 50 bhp over the 850 Ci for a total of 375 bhp. Internally, the engine was called the S70B56 – in other words – the 850 CSi was the closest thing to an “M8” that BMW ever made.
850 CSis were only offered with a six-speed manual transmission, and only 1,150 models were built, making them among the rarest BMWs ever produced. The E31 850 CSi also featured stiffer springs with reduced ride height, upgraded brakes, revised front and rear spoiler, and distinctive star-shaped alloy wheels.
Add to that; the car that sold at auction was a late-1993 model which spent most of its life (until 2016) in sunny Florida before being shipped to Switzerland. The car – finished bright red with a black Nappa leather interior – has covered just under 11,000 miles from new.
Journalist, Chris Harris was one of the few people that were granted access to see the Youngtimer Collection in all its glory prior to the auction day, check out the video below, we won’t blame you if you start drooling.
Other notable highlights of the Youngtimer Collection auctions included a 1989 Mercedes-Benz 560 SEC AMG 6.0 "Wide-Body" which sold for USD 179,200. Quite possibly the biggest surprise on the day was the bidding war for an immaculate 1994 Toyota Supra Twin Turbo Targa which eventually switched hands for USD 173,600.
Images courtesy of RM Sotheby's


Mitsubishi Debuts New Triton In Thailand, To Be Previewed At KLIMS

Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (MMC) has unveiled the facelifted Triton in Bangkok, which is the mid-life update for the fifth-generation model that was first introduced back in 2015.
Sales will commence first in Thailand on 17
th
 November, before the model is introduced in 150 other countries around the globe. Depending on market, the Triton is also known as the L200.
Visually, the facelifted Mitsubishi Triton features a front end that closely resembles the Xpander and Pajero Sport, featuring the ‘Dynamic Shield’ front fascia with slim bi-LED headlights and LED daytime running lights. Similar to the Xpander, the front fog lights are housed at the edges of the bumper.
The sides get a new set of 16-inch alloy wheels, while new LED tail lights complete the exterior of the facelifted Triton.
Moving inside, the Triton gains some new switchgear and air vents for its midlife update. In addition to that, the updated Triton also gets soft touch materials and stitching on the centre arm rest, floor console, and parking brake.
Mitsubishi has also given the new Triton some much-needed advanced active and driver assistance systems, including:
Forward Collision Mitigation
Blind Spot Warning with Lane Change Assist
Rear Cross Traffic Alert
Ultrasonic Misacceleration Mitigation System (UMS)
Other changes include improved braking performance as Mitsubishi has fitted larger front discs and calipers to the new Triton. As for ride comfort, the new Triton gets larger rear dampers with more damping oil, which Mitsubishi claims is able to improve ride.
Two engines are carried over from the pre-facelift model – a 2.5-liter turbodiesel and a newer 2.4-litre MIVEC turbodiesel. The latter is good for 179 hp and 430 Nm. Mitsubishi has replaced the 5-speed automatic with a new 6-speed unit, which the company says is able to offer smoother gearshifts and better refinement.
Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia (MMM) will be previewing the new Triton at the 2018 Kuala Lumpur International Motor Show from 23
rd
 November till 2
nd
 December.
The public can also check out the new Triton at the following locations:


2016 Chevrolet Cruze Revealed, To Be Offered In More Than 40 Global Markets

The second-generation 2016
Chevrolet Cruze
 for the North American market makes its debut today following a
teaser image released by the company at the start of the month
 and also through a preview of the
new car’s multimedia capabilities
 a few days prior.
Chevrolet
 say that the new model will be offered in more than 40 global markets but will go on sale first in North America in early 2016 with five variants to be offered then – L, LS, LT, Premier, with an optional RS package.
First up, the new car uses General Motors latest D2XX compact car platform which uses about 8% hot-stamped/high-strength steels, contributing to an approximately 27% stiffer body structure and weighs 24kg lighter than the current Cruze. Strategic use of aluminium in the suspension system also helps optimise weight and handling characteristics.
The new platform also adopts a longer wheelbase of 2,700mm, 15mm more than the previous model, allowing for a larger rear legroom of 917mm. Chevrolet say that there is 51mm more rear knee room – more than its competitors, the Ford Focus and Hyundai Elantra. In terms of overall dimensions, the new car measures 4,666mm in length, 1,795mm in width, and 1,458mm in height, 68mm longer and 25mm shorter than the current model.
Powering the new car is a 1.4-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine producing 153hp @ 5,600 rpm and 240Nm of torque from 2,000 to 4,000 rpm, paired to either a six-speed manual or automatic transmission. The engine features direct injection, start/stop technology, and an aluminium cylinder block and head for weight saving. Performance-wise, the Cruze will get from 0-100 km/h in 8 seconds.
Combined, the new turbo engine and leaner platform contribute to weight savings amounting to 113kg.
Moving on to the design, the sleek look is an attribute of the car’s 0.29 drag coefficient. The front fascia reveals slim swept back headlamp units with the LT and Premier models using a more premium lighting setup – projector-beam headlamps and LED daytime lights. Elsewhere, the front bumper’s dual-port grille design rests in between the headlamps and redesigned fog lamps (with chrome surrounds). Wheel sizes range from 15 to 18 inches with four-wheel disc brakes fitted.
The car shown here is the Premier model with the optional RS package that adds on unique grilles, front and rear fascias, fog lamps, front splitter, rocker panels, rear spoiler and 18-inch wheels.
Inside, Chevrolet’s all-new MyLink infotainment system features a seven-inch touchscreen with multiple media inputs. An uplevel MyLink unit with an eight-inch touchscreen and navigation is available as well with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality. Additional connectivity comes from the OnStar 4G LTE and built-in Wi-Fi hotspot.
The Cruze’s safety package includes an impressive 10 air bags with an expanded range of crash-avoidance technologies, including Side Blind Zone Alert, Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, Lane Keep Assist and Forward Collision Alert.


Volkswagen I.D. R Pikes Peak Sprints Faster Than A Formula 1 Car

Volkswagen has unveiled its fully-electric super sports car, called the I.D. R Pikes Peak in the Alès, France, a couple of days ago.
With 680 hp, 650 Nm of torque and weighing less than 1,100 kg, the super sports car was built with the sole aim of taking on the iconic Pikes Peak hill climb in Colorado Springs, USA.
VW said that the car will be making an attempt on 24 June 2018 to beat the existing record of 8:57.118, which was set by the e0 PP100 one-off electric supercar in 2016.
Capable of sprinting from 0 to 100 km/h in just 2.25 seconds, which is faster than Formula 1 and Formula E cars, the I.D. R Pikes Peak bears two of the brand's core values in its name - the “R” which is synonymous with performance cars, and the “I.D. – the symbol of Volkswagen’s smart E-technology.
Just like the twin-engine Golf that took on the Pikes Peak challenge in 1985, 1986 and 1987, the engineers have opted for a solution with two power units this time as well. The I.D. R Pikes Peak features two electric motors, generating a system capacity of 680 hp.
As in production vehicles with electric drive, lithium-ion batteries are used as the energy storage system. Unlike in the manufacturing of production vehicles, the goal of the motorsport engineers was not maximum range, but the highest possible power output on the way to the Pikes Peak summit.
Roughly 20 percent of the electric energy required is generated during the 20-kilometre drive. The key here is energy recovery: When braking, the electric engines, which in this case operate as generators, convert some of the braking energy into electricity and feed this into the battery.
Defending Pikes Peak champion, Romain Dumas, will be at the wheel of the Volkswagen I.D. R Pikes Peak for the attempt to break the existing record for electric cars.
The 39-year-old Frenchman has also won the 24 Hours of Le Mans twice. Incidentally, Dumas, who names motorsport legend Jacky Ickx as his idol, was born in Alès.
Starting at 2,862 metres above sea level, the drive up Pikes Peak will comprise 1,440 vertical metres of climbing and 156 corners in total.


Toyota Announces USD 2b Investment In Indonesia To Manufacture Electrified Vehicles

With a population of over 260 million, Indonesia is the largest country within the ASEAN trade bloc and often jostles with Thailand for the title of ASEAN’s largest car market. Last year, Indonesia sold 1.15 million vehicles versus Thailand’s 1.04 million.
As it is, the sheer size of its car market allows Indonesia to carry a lot of clout amongst the world’s carmakers, especially Japanese brands, which control 90 percent of Indonesia’s car market. Toyota is the leading automotive brand there. Together with its subsidiary Daihatsu, the Toyota Motor Group makes up 50 percent of all new cars sold in the archipelago.
Later this year, Indonesia is expected to announce a series of tax incentives to promote hybrid/electric vehicles. By year 2025, Indonesia aims to have 20 percent of vehicles manufactured locally to be BEVs (battery electric vehicles). Last year, Indonesia produced 1.34 million vehicles, about 15 percent of it for exports.
Yesterday, Indonesia’s Maritime Affairs Ministry, whose responsibility also includes transportation, has announced that Toyota will be investing USD 2 billion in Indonesia to develop electric vehicles, starting first with hybrid vehicles.
The investment will be spread out over a span of four years, starting this year.
"From 2019 to 2023, we will progressively increase our investment to 28.3 trillion rupiah (USD 2 billion)," said President Akio Toyoda in the statement release by the Indonesian government.
“Because the Indonesian government already has an electric vehicle development map, Toyota considers Indonesia a prime EV investment destination,” he added.
Toyota currently sells three hybrid vehicles in Indonesia, all imported – Camry and C-HR come from Thailand while the Alphard is from Japan. The Prius will join the local line-up later this year. Local manufacturing of Toyota hybrids is expected to commence within the next five years.
Aside from its large domestic market, there is another factor that makes Indonesia so attractive to Toyota. There is a little known fact that Indonesia has the largest reserve of nickel laterite ore - a crucial resource in the manufacture of lithium-ion batteries – in the region.
While Malaysia might be rich in oil, Indonesia is leveraging on its plentiful reserves of nickel to give it a strong foothold as the automotive sector trend towards electrification. Indonesia’s first battery manufacturing plant will begin operation in 2020, operated by a consortium that include China’s CATL and GEM.
For the best deals on new Toyota vehicles, click
here
.


Review: Mercedes-Benz C180 (W205) – Excellence from Ground Up

Although the
S-Class
 is
Mercedes-Benz
’s flagship, there is no question that the C-Class is the model responsible for putting most of the bread on the company’s table. Yet, despite its major significance to the world’s oldest car brand, the consensus of critiques for many years is that Stuttgart’s effort in the compact executive segment is second-best to its arch-rival from Munich, the
BMW 3 Series
.
But just as
BMW
 strives to continue making a
7 Series
 to eventually topple the S-Class’ superiority, Mercedes-Benz is just as determined to push the
C-Class
 to usurp the 3 Series’ segment crown. The latest effort in this decades-long campaign is the
W205 C-Class
 that was launched in 2014.
Two years on and with a
World Car of the Year
 title behind it, there is no question that Mercedes has found the right formula to take on the competition. Widely described as a ‘baby S-Class’, the W205 is further demonstration of Mercedes-Benz’s impressive return to form in building vehicles of absurdly good quality.
Recently, entrance to the C-Class owners’ club has been widened with the introduction of the
C 180
, a new entry-level model to the range. In this review, we find out if a lowered price tag has led to any compromise of the excellence which the W205 is now widely renowned for.
Specifications:
Price: RM228,888
Engine: 1.6-litre, Inline-4 Longitudinal, Turbocharged Petrol Direct Injection
Power: 156hp @ 5,300rpm
Torque: 250Nm @ 1,200 – 4,000rpm
Transmission: 7-speed torque converter automatic with paddle shifters, RWD
Safety: 7 airbags, ABS, ESC, ISOFIX (rear), autonomous emergency braking,
Origin: Locally-assembled at Pekan, Pahang
Overview
Powering the C180 is Mercedes-Benz’s latest generation turbocharged petrol direct injection engine codenamed M274 in this particular application. We’ve recently encountered this engine in the
A-Class
, where it powers the
A180
 in a transverse installation and carries the M270 designation.
Oriented in a north-south direction for its duties in the C180, the 1.6-litre engine sends outputs of 156hp and 250Nm astern through Stuttgart’s in-house 7G-Tronic 7-speed automatic transmission. Above it, the more familiar 2.0-litre member of the M274 family is available in 184hp, 211hp, and 245hp configurations powering the C 200, C 250, and C 300 respectively.
At this end of the range, the C-Class does not meet its fiercest rival, the BMW 3 Series, directly at eye level. In terms of power, it sits midway between the 1.5-litre 3-cylinder 318i and the 2.0-litre 4-cylinder 320i. Price-wise, however, it’s just RM3k shy of the latter. Closest competition for the C180 would come from Ingolstadt should
Audi
 decide to launch the upcoming
B9 A4
 with its 150hp/250Nm 1.4 TFSI variant.
Exterior
The last time Mercedes-Benz Malaysia tried its luck with the C180 badge, the result was a less-than-impressive-looking barebones variant of the previous-generation W204 C-Class with halogen reflector headlamps. It certainly did not look like a Mercedes-Benz to aspire to. This time round, the company has returned with a more dignified effort.
Whilst its rims measure a conservatively-sized 17 inches, high-performance LED headlamps as seen on higher variants are standard fitment in the C180, accompanying the sportier-looking Avantgarde trim also available with the C200. This ensures that the C180 maintains a respectable appearance next to its more expensive siblings, and keeps prudent buyers from being punished for their smaller budgets with an embarrassingly bare vehicle.
Interior
A similar theme of tasteful minimalism continues in the C180’s interior. Admittedly, there are more blank switches and you see more square feet of empty spaces on its dashboard and door cards than you would in a C 200 or C 250, but the superlative selection of materials and switchgear tactility of the upper models do not appear in anyway sacrificed for the sake of a more accessible price tag.
Climate control is a single zone system, which is somewhat surprising at this price level, but you still get auto cruise, steering-mounted controls, and electric seat adjustment as standard. Paddle shifters are provided too, but that’s less of a luxury and more of a necessity to go with Mercedes’ column-mounted selector lever.
Also included as standard in the C180 is Mercedes’ COMAND infotainment system, which comes with all the usual connectivity facilities that one would expect today. Its touch-pad-plus-rotary-knob user interface look appropriately expensive like the cabin that surrounds it, although operating it on to go requires a bit more diversion of the driver’s attention than it is advisable. Reverse camera is not included, which is a surprise, considering that the A-Class and CLA-Class, both models positioned below the C-Class, get this feature as standard.
Because the transmission is operated from a steering column-mounted stalk, the area where you would typically find a gear lever becomes a usefully deep lidded storage bin in which the contents of your pocket can be unloaded into. Elsewhere, a pair of cup holders and a lidded centre console box offer further options for your small item storage.
Overall, Mercedes-Benz’s unwavering focus at quality in the C-Class’ cabin is evident. The C180 may lose out on a good number of toys from its costlier siblings, but nowhere do you get the impression that this is an interior built with any less care to the peerless standards and meticulous attention to detail which the entire W205 range is rightly lauded for.
How does it Drive?
Mercedes may have had its rivals outgunned with its interior quality, but that advantage is reined in on the road. This side of an
AMG C 63
, the C-Class’ dynamic talents are at best competitive within the segment but it remains second best to the BMW 3 Series in driver engagement and chassis balance.
That being said, if your life goal is not to chase that
330i
 down a backroad, the C-Class is an easy and pleasing machine to live with. There is sensible weighting in the steering and body motions at brisk speeds are well-managed. The C180 has the lightest nose in the C-Class family, so that classic sweet balance you get in a front-engine rear-wheel drive arrangement is especially obvious when you chuck it enthusiastically around a bend.
For performance, the C180 was not found wanting. Unlike the lethargic A180 we drove recently, the same 1.6 mill in the C180 feels livelier and more eager to perform. There is good mid-range grunt and satisfying mitigation of turbo lag to ensure responsive on-demand acceleration on kick-down. If there are any reasons for us to recommend upscaling to the higher model grades from the C180, it’s certainly not for a lack of pace.
How Comfortable is it?
Complementing its convincingly luxurious cabin, Mercedes made commensurate efforts to ensure matching levels of rolling refinement. By and large, the engineers have succeeded at keeping noise levels low and honing the various components of the vehicle to work together in pleasing harmony.
Ride quality is fairly comfortable, but hardly outstanding in the context of the segment. The suspension does a fair job in isolating long-wave undulations and straight line stability is reassuring. Bad patches of road, sharp bumps, and pot holes, however, did test the Merc’s compliance a little harder than we had expected.
How economical is it?
We often say that BMW engines are among the most economical ones in the business outside the confines of a lab test. Against the C180, Munich’s entry-level 1.5-litre three-pot 318i will have quite a task at hand to match the 8.5 litre/100km we averaged on test car’s trip computer over a 667km test route of mixed conditions.
Officially, Mercedes-Benz quotes an average of 5.4 litres/100km in the European combined test cycle, whilst BMW claims a slightly better figure of 5.1 litres/100km for the 318i under the same conditions. We await the opportunity to put the F30’s base model to the test to verify if it really is 5.6 percent more fuel efficient from the Merc as the figures show.
Most curiously, however, despite packing more power from the same 1.6-litre engine and having to haul more weight including a lengthy prop-shaft and supposedly energy-sapping torque converter, the C180 actually manages to be more efficient than the 122hp FWD A180, which recorded a surprisingly thirsty 10.7 litres/100km in our tests.
Conclusion
If you have the budget to plonk for a luxury car, few vehicles remind you of its premium disposition in as pleasingly convincing fashion as the Mercedes-Benz C-Class. Whether you’re racking up the miles on highways or negotiating congested urban traffic, the C-Class pampers and cocoons you in one of the finest built cabins in the business. For some, we reckon this alone is good enough seal the deal.
Those of a more enthusiastic disposition will probably argue in favour of a BMW 3 Series, and they won’t be wrong; the F30 is still the segment benchmark as far as dynamics are concerned, and to be frank, we don’t feel the C-Class rides any better to offset that particular disadvantage. That being said, the Mercedes still drives and rides well enough for the talents of most drivers.
The C180 for its part, is an exemplary entry model to the range. Whilst its equipment list is undoubtedly shorter, it still offers enough equipment and performance that it can wear the C-Class badge with deserved pride.
Pictures by:
Gokul
 and
Arvind
.


2020 (F93) BMW M8 Gran Coupe Unleashed – 600HP Bahn-Stormer, RM1.45 Million

Alongside the
M8 Coupe
, BMW Malaysia recently also pulled the covers off its flagship four-doored counterpart – the M8 Gran Coupe.

The first of its kind (F93) M8 Gran Coupe debuted shortly after the (F92) M8 Coupe, and (F91) M8 Convertible in October last year, and goes up against other super-sedan models such as the Porsche Panamera and Aston Martin Rapide.

Underpinned by BMW’s CLAR platform, the M8 Gran Coupe (GC) – like the M8 Coupe and Convertible – utilises the company’s Carbon Core reinforcements within its chassis and body construction for greater rigidity and reduced weight.

Powering the M8 GC is BMW’s most powerful engine ever, the (S63) 4.4-litre turbocharged V8 which outputs 600 hp and 750 Nm of torque between 1,800 rpm and 5,600 rpm. The M8 GC’s power plant is connected to an 8-speed M Steptronic transmission that distributes power to all four-wheels through a BMW (rear-biased) xDrive all-wheel-drive system, equipped with the Active M differential.

The rear-wheel bias xDrive system makes for extremely dynamic driving characteristics – offering fully variable torque split between the front and rear axles. This means the driver can opt between the 4WD default settings, to the 4WD Sport mode, and, with the DSC switched off, a rear-wheel-drive-only 2WD mode for use on the track.

Elsewhere, the Active M differential in both models handles situation-dependent power distribution between the rear wheels to ensure optimal traction and directional stability. The M8 GC is equipped with M Compound brakes with trademark blue callipers as standard.

The M8 GC is claimed to achieve the century sprint in just 3.3 seconds and has an electronically limited top speed of 250 km/h.

Like the M8 Coupe, the M8 GC offers similar design and aesthetic equipment – but with the addition of two more doors. These include the new M-specific front apron, kidney grille featuring M-specific decorative mesh, M8 logo designation, and BMW Laserlights at the front. Along the flanks, the M8 GC features the same snazzy frameless windows, twin-stalk side mirror design, and CRFP carbon roof up top. Like the Coupe, the M8 GC is fitted with 20-inch light-alloy, double-spoke Style 810 M Bicolour wheels.

Round the back - both models sport the M rear spoiler, as well as an M-specific M8 rear diffuser and M-specific exhaust system with twin tailpipes and chrome trims.

On the inside, the low-slung cabin space house M Sport seats, a full-leather dashboard and trim panels. The rear seats are upholstered in Merino leather as standard. The highlight of the interior is the BMW Live Cockpit Professional system running on the BMW Operating System 7.0, which consists of an all-digital 12.3-inch instrument cluster, a high-resolution 10.25-inch Control Display and a full-colour Head-Up Display with additional M-specific displays.

Other premium trappings include the ‘M’ leather steering wheel and seat belts, 16-speaker Harman Kardon surround sound system such as is found on the Coupe as well.

The M8 GC Coupe, however, offers marginally more boot space than the Coupe at 440 litres (versus the Coupe’s 420 litres) and has a 40/20/40 split-folding rear seat backrest for added versatility.

As with the Coupe, the M8 GC is supplied as standard with Active Cruise Control with Stop&Go function, BMW Personal CoPilot driver assistance systems include the Driving Assistant Professional, and Parking Assistant Plus - which offer functions such as Lane Keeping Assistant with side collision protection, Lane Change Assistant, Crossing-Traffic Warning and the Reversing Assistant.

The M8 Coupe retails for just over RM1,455 million (inclusive of SST deductions), roughly RM3k more than the Coupe for two more doors, and comes in seven colours: Alpine White, Brands Hatch Grey, Marina Bay Blue, Motegi Red, Black Sapphire, Donington Grey, and Barcelona Blue.

The interior is furnished with the Merino Leather offering in either Black or Silverstone white colours.


Hap Seng Star Aces Mercedes-Benz Malaysia Dealer Of The Year Awards

Mercedes-Benz Malaysia Dealer of the Year Awards returned for its second year recently, and saw representatives from nine dealer groups gathering to receive top honours within the Mercedes-Benz dealer network across Malaysia.
The highlight of this year’s awards was that Mercedes-Benz Malaysia introduced a new category called the ‘Most Improved Dealer’, bringing the total number of categories to seven. In each category, a winner and two runners-up were awarded.
Out of the seven categories, Hap Seng Star dealers emerged as champions in six, including Dealer of the Year award. The only category which didn’t see a Hap Seng Star dealer winning was the ‘Most Improved Dealer’, which went to NZ Wheels Klang, Cycle & Carriage Bintang Cheras, and NZ Wheels Bangsar.
Mercedes-Benz Malaysia President and CEO Dr Claus Weidner said, “These exceptional accomplishments are attributed by putting our Customers at the Centre of our Activities. Automotive excellence goes beyond the vehicle. It includes the entire customer journey and we are very grateful for our dealer partners, who have given us the dedication and passion to meet the needs of our esteemed Mercedes-Benz customers.”
The List of winners is as follows:
Most Improved Dealer
Champion – NZ Wheels Klang
1st runner up - Cycle & Carriage Bintang Cheras
2nd runner up – NZ Wheels Bangsar
Best Performance in Financial Services
Champion - Hap Seng Star Bukit Tinggi
1st runner up - Cycle & Carriage Bintang Cheras
2nd runner up – NZ Wheels Johor Bahru
Best Performance in Business Excellence
Champion – Hap Seng Star Kota Kinabalu
1st runner up - Cycle & Carriage Bintang (North), Juru/Bukit Tengah
2nd Runner up – Cycle & Carriage Bintang Perak
Best Performance in Customer Services
Champion – Hap Seng Star Balakong
1st runner up - Hap Seng Star Kinrara
2nd runner up - Cycle & Carriage Bintang Glenmarie
Best Performance in Sales
Champion – Hap Seng Star Bukit Tinggi
1st runner up - Hap Seng Star Jalan Ipoh
2nd runner up – Hap Seng Star Balakong
Best Performance in CSI & CLI
Champion – Hap Seng Star Kota Kinabalu
1st runner up - Hap Seng Star Bukit Tinggi
2nd runner up – Hap Seng Star Kuching
Dealer of the Year
Champion – Hap Seng Star Kota Kinabalu
1st runner up - Hap Seng Star Bukit Tinggi
2nd runner up – Hap Seng Star Kinrara