Yamaha RXZ Bakal Dilancarkan Semula Pada 2023?

Nama motosikal
Yamaha RXZ
 sekali lagi naik di media sosial apabila timbul khabar angin yang mengatakan bahawa motosikal lagenda ini akan dilancarkan semula di pasaran Malaysia pada Januari 2023. Tapi betul ke?

Mungkin ini boleh menjadi berita baik dan buruk bagi sesetengah pihak bergantung kepada tujuan mereka, namun perlu diingatkan bahawa ini bukanlah kali pertama isu ini dibangkitkan kerana berita ini pernah juga timbul di sekitar tahun 2020 sehinggalah tahun ini.

Benarkah RXZ Bakal Kembali?

Untuk mengetahui perkara sebenar, eloklah kita pergi merujuk kepada pengeluarnya, iaitu Hong Leong Yamaha Motor Sdn. Bhd. (HLYM). Setakat ini, tiada sebarang maklumat, petunjuk mahupun
teaser
 bahawa motosikal itu bakal dilancarkan semula.

Seringkali isu ini dibangkitkan, ia hanyalah dakwaan sesetengah pihak di media sosial tanpa sebarang bukti kukuh. Sekiranya model ini memang sah bakal dilancarkan, sekurang-kurangnya pasti sudah ada gambar yang tersebar di media sosial. Maklumlah, orang kita kan
paparazzi
.

Sekiranya motosikal ini dilancarkan semula dalam jumlah terhad sekalipun, pasti sudah ada petunjuk jelas jika diikutkan pada populariti
motosikal
 ini.

Sebab RXZ Ditamatkan Penjualan

Motosikal ini telah ditamatkan pengeluarannya pada 2011 bagi mematuhi undang-undang emisi Malaysia dan antarabangsa yang tidak lagi membenarkan penggunaan motosikal berenjin dua lejang bagi mengurangkan pencemaran.

Ketika ini, penggunaan enjin empat lejang lebih baik dan bersih serta mematuhi piawaian Euro 5. Buktinya,
Yamaha 125ZR
 yang menggunakan enjin dua lejang juga telah ditamatkan pada tahun 2018 dan tidak lagi membuat kemunculan semula sejak daripada itu meskipun masih digilai ramai peminat.

Namun timbul juga dakwaan bahawa RXZ baharu ini bakal dilancarkan menggunakan enjin empat lejang mengikut kelulusan yang dibenarkan dan bakal hadir dengan sistem
coolant
 dan
injection.

Apa-apa pun setakat ini perkara ini hanyalah khabar angin semata-mata dan masih tiada sebarang maklumat rasmi yang dikeluarkan oleh HLYM sehingga ini.

Jika benar RXZ empat lejang ini dilancarkan di pasaran, adakah ia sesuatu yang menarik bagi anda?


The Perodua Ativa Won’t Be Exported To Many Markets - Here's Why?

The Perodua Ativa’s counterparts from Toyota and Daihatsu, the Raize and Rocky recently celebrated their local launches in Indonesia. Undoubtedly, one of the largest markets these two vehicles will feature in the coming years. During the launch, Chief Executive Officer Toyota Motor Corporation Asia Region Yoichi Miyazaki added that Toyota, as the principal owners of Daihatsu, plans to export the
Raize/Rocky to over 50 markets
 worldwide as the company is confident it will become a high volume seller.

Of course, this is great for Toyota and Daihatsu, but some quarters here have lamented the loss of any export potential of our Perodua Ativa to more profitable and growing markets. Now, of course, as big fans of the
Perodua Ativa and the Perodua’s efforts
 in developing and producing the vehicle, we would surely like to see the Ativa exported to many more countries in the interest of Perodua’s own growth and also because we’re Malaysian, why not have our car on the roads of other countries.

Of course, having our cars on foreign shores bodes well for Malaysia’s aspirations of becoming a turnkey automotive hub for manufacturers in the ASEAN region, after all, as one of the veterans of the industry, at least within the ASEAN context, we should be at the very least capable of exporting our Malaysian made cars to other countries.

But we have to face facts…

For all its years as a proud purveyor of the “National Car”, Malaysia’s automotive policies have by and large mostly served to keep the Malaysian cars cheap for Malaysian customers, and for the most part, it does.

The oversimplification of the subject is that these policies have done very little to ensure Malaysia’s growth in the automotive sector could grow beyond our own borders, and made little use of that head start and economic growth Malaysia enjoyed over its immediate neighbours in the decades before now.

Thailand is now the biggest automotive market (by volume in ASEAN) and Indonesia comes in second, Malaysia (though with a much smaller population) trails in third. However, that’s not to say that we do not have a healthy and thriving automotive market – which leads us back to Perodua.

The National leader

With annual sales hovering around the 200,000 mark since 2013, Perodua is the consummate champion of the Malaysian automotive market, it controls nearly 30 percent of the annual market share with its closest competitor, Proton, moving approximately half of that number, even on a good year.

Of course,
Proton sales are getting better by the day
 – but the fact remains, Perodua's runaway success is rarely seen in many markets around the world.

In the US market for instance, while Toyota may lead the market (with over 2.0 million vehicles in 2020), it has to fight tooth and nail against competitors such as Ford and Chevrolet, who may be just tens of thousands of units behind, not much of a lead when you think of the scale of the US market.

For the most part, Perodua is a less than adventurous company that doesn’t take big risks but is highly efficient and understands its market very well.

The quagmire of “production”

However, they also do not design their products from the ground up. That would require that every single nut and bolt, every single plastic part, every single metal component, and every single microprocessor and circuit board be designed, developed, engineered, tested and produced in large quantities to make up larger components which is supplied to complete the final vehicle. Not to mention the production, training, tooling, process control and production methods that go into making a complete vehicle.

Nope, very few manufacturers actually do that. Fewer even that produce every single native component without third-party vendors or technology partners. Case in point, BMW (way bigger than Perodua) might make the best engines in the world, but they still require
ZF to supply transmissions
,
Aston Martin
 might make the most beautiful cars in the world, but now buy some of their engines from Mercedes-Benz.

So, what does Perodua actually do…

Well, Perodua will tell you they work with and not for Daihatsu. The oversimplification of the subject is that while Perodua is a proudly Malaysian-owned and operated company, it relies on Daihatsu for the majority of its product design, development and production work. Daihatsu in turn on relies on Perodua to assemble, market and distribute their cars to the buying public.

It’s much the same with Daihatsu's bigger concern in Indonesia, PT Astra Daihatsu Motor (ADM). ADM, like Perodua is a localised partner that manages the production, assembly, marketing and distribution of Daihatsu vehicles in Indonesia. However, while they are still under the Daihatsu banner, they are a vastly larger operation in terms of resources and capabilities (in reference to Perodua).

Perodua has an annual production capacity of over 300,000 units across both its (assembly) plants, ADM on the hand, can produce well over 500,000 units annually and has a far more inclusive operation when you consider it is supported by a dedicated casting, pressing and engine manufacturing plant.

However, in both cases, Daihatsu encourages and counts on its localised partners to help design and develop the products that are relevant to their individual markets, and not just pick one of the shelves and change the badges.

A lot of this is exemplified under the
Perodua Smart Build (PSB) concept
 which creates a two-way path between Daihatsu and Perodua not just to exchange ideas, but expertise, components and even personnel in addition to the production process. This is how we got the Ativa, and not the
Nautica
 (incidentally the last time Perodua decided to simply pick a product of Daihatsu’s shelf and market it to the Malaysian people).

So if the Perodua Ativa is so good why won’t they export it?

In time they will, and yes, while the Perodua Ativa will likely not make it to bigger markets such as Europe and most of the other quoted “50 countries”, it will likely make it to countries such as Fiji, Sri Lanka, Brunei and Singapore – who do want the Perodua cars, but have been met with many logistical challenges given the pandemic.

ADM in Indonesia however, will likely, play a much larger role in the global supply chain as it has been chosen as an export hub for the Raize/Rocky duo and has the capacity and supply chain to do so.

So Perodua is missing out then…as a partner to Daihatsu

Well, yes, if Perodua were handed a contract to build another 1 million Toyota Raizes, it would undoubtedly be good for them, their vendors and the Malaysian economy at large, but under the terms of their joint venture with Daihatsu, they are doing an amazing job of conquering the market and selling you the cars that you want.

There are other factors at play as well – Daihatsu only participates in markets that it knows it can perform well in. It understands and sells very well in growing markets such as Indonesia, and of course Malaysia, but knows it doesn’t do so well in countries like India and Thailand where crucially
Suzuki
 has a much greater presence.

With a need to sell a gazillion units of every model it makes, not even Daihatsu can wager its Daihatsu Rocky will sell well… everywhere. This is where the Toyota Raize comes in - because it can attack nearly any market because of Toyota's global presence.

Therefore exporting a product isn’t as simple as pinpointing an “X” on a map, but motivated by so many other factors that can make or break the model, and a larger part, the company. Additionally, export to 50 countries doesn’t speak of the hundred or so countries that will not get the Raize/Rocky models.

Isn’t it a good thing then, that we have our very own, and
much loved
… Perodua Ativa.

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Bangkok 2017: All-New Nissan Leaf – Closer Look Before It Comes To Malaysia

The all-new second-generation Nissan Leaf makes its first public appearance in the ASEAN region at the 2017 Thailand International Motor Expo just two months following its global debut in September.
Confirmed by local Nissan distributor Edaran Tan Chong Motor for a 2018 launch in Malaysia
, the all-new Leaf is, like its predecessor, built on a dedicated EV-only platform.
Externally, the all-new Leaf boasts a sleeker low-slung profile for a sharper and more dynamic look than its predecessor. Familiar Nissan design cues include the signature boomerang-shaped lamps and V-motion front grille.
Performance on tap is to the tune of 148 hp and 320 Nm, but the more useful enhancement of this new Leaf is its longer cruising range. Depending on which testing standard you trust, the all-new Leaf is will do anywhere between 241 (US EPA) and 400 km (JC08) per full charge of its 40 kWh battery.
On normal charging, a depleted battery requires 8 hours on a 6 kW supply to fully replenish, whilst a fast charging facility is able to get the battery up to 80% charge in just 40 minutes.
The all-new Leaf also aims to change the way drive a little – the e-Pedal system lets drivers start, accelerate, and decelerate entirely based on pressure applied to the accelerator. Fully releasing the throttle brings the car to a complete stop using the brakes. Those with the habit of coasting may need to readjust their driving style a little.
The Leaf’s actual launch date in Malaysia has yet to be confirmed, though the car is already on sale in Japan (price JPY 3.15 million) and has also been confirmed to go on sale in Thailand on an unspecified timeline.
The outgoing Leaf was launched in Malaysia in 2013 after undergoing a year-long pilot programme that included loaning test cars to selected motorists for an extended period of time. At present, the Leaf retails at RM180,566 on-the-road without insurance in Peninsular Malaysia.


Shell Helix and Waze Launch Asia’s First Accident-Prone Spots Alert

With the upcoming Ramadan and Aidifiltri seasons, many motorists will be making their way back to their hometowns- regardless of ethnicity or religion, because as Malaysians we enjoy taking advantage of any long holiday we’re presented with. Many road users have turned towards Google Maps and Waze in order to make their journeys a little smoother, with alerts for traffic pileups and accidents helping motorists make decisions to detour and the like.

But Shell and Waze seek to go beyond that. From May 16
th
 to July 15
th
, a special alert from Shell Helix will pop up for Waze users whenever they approach one of 50 accident-prone spots around Peninsular Malaysia. The reminder is to ensure road users stay vigilant, and the spots are chosen based on historical accident data submitted by Waze users themselves.
Seasoned motorists will understand this concept. There are particular places on highways and trunk roads that are notorious for being especially dangerous- places that may not be known to newer road users. The objective of the campaign is to help prevent accidents during this season when there are an especially large number of road users.
The added benefit of preventing accidents is that traffic jams can be reduced as well. How many times have you come upon a slow moving stretch of traffic to find a bottleneck caused by an accident a few minutes earlier? Less accidents means smoother flowing traffic, and that’s something that everyone can appreciate.
Prior to the peak travel period, Shell Helix will also be running special oil change promotions for Waze users and other raod users who catch the Shell Helix Aidilfitri video on YouTube or Facebook. By presenting a unique promo code that appears in the Waze app or the video, motorists will enjoy up to RM 30 off when they bring in their cars for an oil change at participanting Shell Helix branded workshops and Lubebay service outlets.


Mazda MX-5 RF Goes on Sale in Japan

Fans of the MX-5 RF, rejoice! When the production ready model
came out a few months ago at Goodwood
, it sparked excitement from MX-5 fans everywhere. A truly unique take on the MX-5, more than just a hardtop variant, and confirmed for production- what more could one ask for? The MX-5 RF has finally been confirmed for sales in Japan, where it will hit dealer showrooms by the 22nd of December.
Unique features to the MX-5 RF are the powered retracting targa-top of sorts, without compromising the (already meager) boot space. More importantly, the MX-5 RF will be made available for the Japanese market with the 2.0-litre SKYACTIV-G engine, rather than the 1.5-litre engine that they normally receive. This is most likely done to offset the weight penalty of the folding hard top system. The suspension has also been retuned to account for the shift in weight balance.
Pricing for the MX-5 RF starts at JPY 3,240,000 (RM 130,715), and goes as high as JPY 3,736,800 (RM 150,758). It's positioned as more of a luxury product than the regular MX-5, but this may help to bring an entirely different set of customers that previously felt the MX-5 was perhaps a little too bare bones.


CMCO Roadblock and Road Closure Updates: Kota Damansara Road Closures Opened Up

We're into the third day of this CMCO (conditional control movement order) now, and for those of you who are still moving around going to work and back, these updates of road closures and roadblocks might be of some interest to you.

Unsurprisingly, the Petaling Jaya district police have decided to reopen
road closures
 at Persiaran Mahogani (Section 9), Persiaran Jati (Section 8) and Persiaran Sungai Buloh which has caused significant congestions around the surrounding areas.

In a statement that was issued late two nights ago (14 October), OCPD ACP Nik Ezanee Mohd Faisal said that the purpose of reopening these roads was to redeploy personnel for duties elsewhere but more importantly, to ease traffic congestion in the area.

To close roads under a partial movement control order seemed a bit extreme and we're glad that they have ended it at these locations. This is especially so when the government has decided to allow workers to continue going to their workplace, so it felt just a bit unplanned and not well thought out.

The decision to reopen those roads will surely be welcoming news to those who need to use it to get to work and back and we're glad actions are being taken to rectify problems caused by these road closures.

Although these road closures near Kota Damansara have been lifted, do not expect any less police presence as 93 police roadblocks have been put in place around the Klang Valley. These include 66 in Selangor and 28 in Kuala Lumpur.

Deputy Inspector-General of Police Datuk Seri Acryl Sani Abdullah Sani said "We will check and improve on certain areas if the need arises." according to a report made by The Star.

Considering that the Deputy General and company are working hard to make things more efficient is good news. We also suspect that they had no time to prepare for the CMCO as it was suddenly announced and was not properly planned.

*Cover image credit Jude Ignatius Lazaroo

List of road closure and roadblocks

Road Closure (Klang)

Jalan Meru to Jalan Kempas

Bukit Raja

Jalan Tengku Kelana

Jambatan Raja Muda Nala

Jambatan Musaeddin

Roadblocks

Kuala Lumpur

Jalan Sultan Ismail (in front of Sungai Wang Plaza)

Jalan Tuanku Abdul Rahman

Jalan Ampang

Jalan Duta & Sg Besi toll plaza

Jalan Syed Putra

Jalan Genting Klang

Middle Ring Road 2 (MRR2)

Putrajaya

Persiaran Utara second exit leading to Kajang

Persiaran Utara third exit to Puchong

Lebuh Sentosa near the National Cancer Institute heading towards the Maju Expressway (MEX)

Persiaran Selatan heading towards Dengkil

Subang Jaya

Puchong Batu 14 toll plaza

LDP – PJS 7 toll plaza

ELITE toll plaza

NPE (near to SS12)

Seafield toll plaza

Kajang

Jalan Bangi – Nilai

Road heading towards Plaza Tol Badar Seri Putra

In front of Balai Polis Beranang

Jalan Broga

Hulu Selangor

Tanjung Malim toll plaza

Lembah Beringin toll plaza

Sungai Buaya toll plaza

Bukit Beruntung toll plaza

KM79 Jalan Ipoh – KL city

KM60 Kuala Kubu Bharu – Fraser’s Hill

Gohtong Jaya heading towards Batang Kali checkpoint

KM 3 Sungai Duyong – Jalan Ulu Yam

KM33 Tanjung Malim – Sungai Besar

Klang

Petron Station in front of Bukit Raja Aeon

Batu 8, Jalan Meru Tambahan

Kapar Batu 10

Persiaran Kota

Batu 2, Jalan Langat

Jalan Dato’ Mohd Sidin

We will update the page as we get more information regarding the roadblock locations.


Last Chance! Proton 5-Year Warranty & Free Service Promo

If you are thinking of getting a Proton car in the not too distant future, now would be a good time to sign the order form; the Proton Amazing 5 Value campaign offering prospective owners with peace-of-mind warranty and free servicing coverage for five years is about to conclude.

Related Articles

Report Claims Seven New Proton Engines By 2017

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Will We Get A Proton Preve Replacement In 2021? Honda Civic Rival?

Insights

December 29, 2020

Applicable to all Proton cars currently on sale including the
Saga
,
Iriz
,
Persona
,
Ertiga
, Exora, Preve, Suprima S, and
Perdana
, the Amazing 5 Value campaign will end on 30 April 2017.
No discounts are being offered, but under the terms of the campaign, all Proton cars sold during the promotional period enjoy a 5-year/150,000km warranty in addition to a 5-year/100,000km free service package covering parts, lubricants, and labour.


Detroit 2017: Audi To Unveil The Q8 Concept

Audi has something exciting to preview at the upcoming Detroit motor show. It's the new Q8 concept, slated to be their new range-topping SUV model. Details are few and far between, but from these few teaser images we get a rough idea of what Audi is aiming for. Interestingly enough, Audi says that some elements of the new Q8 were referenced from the old Audi Ur-quattro of the 1980s.
Flared overfenders and a wide C-pillar are borrowed from this classic, although whether they mesh well with the SUV form has yet to be seen. Release dates for the actual car in question are not firmed up, but Audi has mentioned that they will have a model launch in 2018 (likely to be the Q6), while their big model launch for 2019 is likely to by the Q8.


Tesla Is Designing Ventilators For COVID-19 Patients Out Of Model 3 Parts

Deep in the R&D facilities of Tesla, a group of talented engineers are in the advanced stages of creating ventilators for the direst of COVID-19 patients using a variety of repurposed Model 3 parts.

Despite earlier scepticism of the gravity of the virus, Tesla's founder Elon Musk now admits that ventilators will play a vital role in the treatment of the worst affected patients - especially with the number of affected in the USA, which has now spiralled to over 300k patients.

The concise 3-minute video on the Tesla Youtube page gives us a simplified version of the schematic diagram, the working layout of the various systems, and finally, a working prototype that we could potentially see go to market.

Among the components that have been repurposed from Tesla's compact premium sedan include an air-oxygen mixing chamber, several pneumatic sensors, and perhaps the coolest feature is the entire system is augmented by the Model 3 infotainment computer and beamed onto a Model 3 infotainment screen.

And they're not just using Model 3 parts as some marketing ploy; using existing parts allows Tesla engineers to take advantage of existing inventory and their commonplace supply chain and logistics partners. Also, given that engineers are already familiar with these parts, gives them better flexibility with adapting them for use in the ventilators.

Tesla joins Mercedes-Benz, Ford, and GM - all car companies that have pledged to design and engineer ventilators for COVID-19 patients.

From all of us here at Carlist.my, we salute you all.


Comparison: Audi A4 (B8) vs Audi A4 (B9)

There's so many things to talk about the all new A4, especially coming from a current owner of the outgoing B8 generation. So I've put together this post especially for those wanting to know what's the core differences between the current and the new generation. One thing's for sure, many motoring journalists have said that the B7 A4 matches up to the 3-Series in every way, and the B8 holds a candle to the formidable F30. This new B9-generation A4 however is, in my opinion, in a completely different league even though its evolutionary looks may not suggest so.
Let's put aside the unquantifiable aspects on how the car drives and feel. For that, you will have to read our
review of the all new A4 B9
. As for the pictures below, they're definitely not as
beautiful as those from Venice Italy
, where Audi gave members of the media their first experience of the A4 B9.
As a current owner of a B8-generation S4, here are the main differences:
Basics Aspects & Key Features
- Its body has grown in all dimensions, it is now longer, wider, roomier, but retains the same height
- Car's overall width is 18mm narrower due to smaller side mirrors
- The sedan is 110kg lighter, the Avant is 125kg lighter.
- New 7-Speed S-Tronic dual-clutch (Wet Clutch) replaces the CVT and 6-Speed dual-clutch
- New engines across the board
- LED Matrix Headlamps available as an option
- Heads-up display
- The car has a feature that makes it able to steer itself in certain situations
- The car can take over other cars during traffic jam, and stop and go in traffic all by itself
- The car will alarm you on cars that are coming from behind after you have parked it and are coming out of the car
- The car will alarm you when there is oncoming cross traffic while you're reversing out from the parking lot
Exterior:
- No more halogen headlamps (first in segment)
- Optional LED Matrix headlamps
- Bonnet opening line combined with the car's body character line
- In Ultra variants, the grilles will shut itself to improve air flow
- There are air vents diverting air to the tyres in front
- Side mirrors are smaller for better aerodynamics
- Wiper fluid reservoir moved to the base of A-pillar
- Bonnet now comes with a new double strut opening mechanism
- Side mirrors are mounted on the doors
Interior:
- Same high quality dashboard, cleaner and multi-tier design
- Large 12.3" Virtual Cockpit and 8.8" floating center MMI display
- MMI control knob is now located in front of the gear lever
- Electronic gear lever (a la BMW style)
- Frameless rear view mirror
- New steering wheel design
- Cup holders are now relocated to the front
- B9 no longer features the long cubby-hole that was next to the cupholder
- No more ashtray/coin tray
- Glovebox opening latch is now made of plastic on the B9 instead of metal
- There is a new gigantic storage compartment located next to the driver (Watch video)
Below is a visual comparison of both the B8 (left) and B9


Mazda Virtual Event Set To Zoom-Zoom to Buyers Online

Unprecedented situations like the current ongoing COVID-19 pandemic require unprecedented new takes on conventional methods.

While online shopping has been the saving grace for many families and individuals for many things, buying a car online has surprisingly not taken off just yet.

However, with no end in sight to this pandemic, potential buyers are starting to explore online purchases, this is further helped by car manufacturers who understand the needs and wants of a buyer.

Leading the charge is Mazda, and their upcoming virtual event in partnership with Carlist shows just how they intend to approach the online car shopping experience.

Bermaz Motor Sdn Bhd, the official distributor of Mazda cars in Malaysia will be hosting their first-ever virtual car sales event in Malaysia this weekend!

The Mazda Virtual Roadshow 2020 powered by Carlist.my is happening from 7th November 2020 till 16th November 2020. The 10-day online event will be hosted on Carlist.my's website exclusively, to enable car buyers to get an in-depth view of their desired Mazda vehicles safely from their home in the midst of the lockdown.

In conjunction with Mazda's 100 Years Centenary celebration, this virtual car sale comes with attractive pricing of their cars due to the sales tax exemption, six years peace of mind through their extended six years free maintenance and warranty program (including labour, parts and lubricants) for the first 120,000km or whichever comes first.

You will also be able to get your hands on Mazda’s Limited Edition 100 Years merchandise when you:

Mazda Limited Edition 100 Years Key Chain – for each sign up with deposit (1 to 1 purchaser only - names are not transferable.)

Mazda Limited Edition 100 Years merchandise – for each successful registration (upon delivery of vehicle)

Mazda vehicles that will be on offer include the Mazda 2, Mazda 3, Mazda 6, Mazda CX-30, Mazda CX-5, Mazda CX-8 and Mazda CX-9

On top of that, Carlist.my is also giving away Starbucks cards, Lazada gift cards, Nespresso coffee machines and G'Zox car coating packages via different contests throughout the event.

Stay tuned to
Carlist.my
 and
Mazda Malaysia
 for more information.


Porsche Reveals Black Edition For The Boxster And 911 Carrera

Porsche
 has unveiled a special series of the
911 Carrera
 and
Boxster
 dubbed the Black Edition. As the name suggests, the cars features a body work and interior finished in, you guessed it, black.
However, the 911 Carrera and Boxster Black Edition models comes standard with the Porsche Communication Management (PCM) navigation module, automatically dimming rear-view mirrors, rain sensor, cruise control and Sport Design steering wheel.
All variants of the 911 Carrera Black Edition including the coupé and convertible versions with rear- or all-wheel drive shares the same 3.4-litre flat-six engine that produces 350hp. The special edition model is fitted with 20-inch 911 Turbo wheels and its LED headlights include Porsche’s Dynamic Light System Plus (PDLS+) as standard. The black interior features heated sports seats for the driver and passenger while a standard Bose Surround Sound System provides the entertainment.
As for the Boxster Black Edition, the mid-mounted 2.7-litre flat-six engine developing 265hp is retained. Distinctive exterior styling changes are the soft top and rollover protection bar, both of which follow the colour concept the name suggests. Also fitted are 20-inch Carrera Classic wheels while the bi-xenon headlights feature the Porsche Dynamic Light System (PDLS). Creature comforts include heated seats, two-zone climate control system, and a high-quality Sound Package Plus sound system.


Report Claims Seven New Proton Engines By 2017

A report by the Malaysian Reserve, quoting unnamed sources claims that Proton is developing a shocking seven new engines to replace the current CamPro family of engines.
The reports claims that the new engines - all of them petrol - under development include:
1.0-litre 3-cylinder with variable valve timing (VVT)
1.2-litre 3-cylinder with VVT
1.3-litre 4-cylinder with direct injection (DI)
1.5-litre 4-cylinder with DI
1.3-litre 4-cylinder turbo
1.5-litre 4-cylinder turbo
2.0-litre 4-cylinder turbo
The report claims that the new engines are expected to roll out beginning 2017, and that it will meet Malaysia’s energy efficient vehicle (EEV) requirements for added tax incentives, and comply to the latest Euro-6 exhaust emission regulations.
We cannot confirm the validity of the report yet, as Proton is expected to make an important announcement later today, but frankly, it is quite far-fetched for a company of Proton’s size to develop seven new engines concurrently.
To put things into perspective, even the juggernaut
Toyota, which is richer than anyone else in the industry, had recently announced just eight new engines
 – five petrol and two diesel engines. Even by Toyota's standards, developing eight engines concurrently is a bit stretching its limits. Only a company with pockets as deep as Toyota’s can embark on a project of such scale.
Several years ago, eyebrows were raised when Mazda, a relatively small company announced that it will be developing five new engines – 1.5-litre SkyActiv-G, 2.0-litre SkyActiv-G, 2.5-litre SkyActiv-G, 1.5-litre SkyActiv-D, 2.2-litre SkyActiv-D – and two new transmissions, SkyActiv-Drive Manual and Automatic.
But never mind about whether Proton can afford it or not. From a powertrain strategy perspective, it’s quite unusual for a company to produce so many variants of similar capacity engines. The application potential for a 1.0-litre three-cylinder and a 1.2-litre three-cylinder are almost the same. Even a company as big as Ford for example, develops only one three-cylinder engine – the 1.0-litre turbocharged EcoBoost, complemented by a 1.5-litre four-cylinder naturally aspirated Ti-VCT.
Then again,
Proton
 is also one of the few companies in the world to have so many overlapping products – Persona, Preve, Inspira, all competing within the same compact family sedan C-segment market. So the surprising might not be so suprising after all.
More to come later tonight.
Update:
Yes, the surprising did not turn out to be so surprising afterall. Proton has confirmed that is currently developing 6+1 engines - 6 from a family of 3- and 4-cylinder engines ranging from 1.0 to 1.5-litre, and another separate programme for a 2.0-litre four-cyllinder project. More here:
Proton Cranks Up New Family of Six Engines for 2017 Introduction
.
Find more
Proton cars
 on sale at Carlist.my.


Tips For Parents: What You Need To Know About Child Safety

As parents, your child’s safety is paramount. These days, modern vehicles are engineered with a wide range of highly-advanced safety features, all designed to keep you and your family safe.
Here are some car features that help keep your little one safe:-
Anti-Locking Braking System (ABS):
This system prevents the wheels from locking up in an instance of hard braking, allowing you to steer away from trouble and keep the little one safe.
Electronic Stability Control (ESC):
ESC helps prevent understeering and oversteering in extreme situations, especially when a child is on board. The driver can also individually brake any wheel as needed and cut power from the engine, or do both at the same time.
Airbags
Airbags help cushion the blow during an impact but they only deploy if the seatbelts are on, so remember to buckle up. Also don’t put small ornaments on your dashboard as they may be dangerous when the airbags are deployed and may hurt your child.
Area View or Rear Assist
Strategically-placed cameras give drivers a visual of blind spots around the vehicle. The camera also helps you spot if there is a child behind your car.
ISOFIX
Proper installation of child seats is essential to ensure your child is not flung forward in an emergency. The ISOFIX child safety system allows you to hook the child seat to top tethers and anchor points that are attached to the vehicle’s chassis, securing it well for your little one.
When a vehicle is on the move, it is important for everyone to be properly secured. Adults should buckle up and children should be strapped in child-safety seats, preferably rear-facing. Children have weaker necks and are more vulnerable to whiplash injuries in a crash. Thus, having them seated rear-facing helps minimize the impact of whiplash.
Lastly, it is important to cultivate good road safety habits into the mindsets of the children themselves. This makes driving together fun and definitely safe for all aboard.
This message is brought to you by Volkswagen Malaysia.
Higher resolution image in the gallery below.


Fuel Price Update: May 2017 Week 3

Motorists in Malaysia are expected to pay more for petrol and diesel from tomorrow onwards.
New prices below:
RON95 - RM2.08 (up 7 sen from RM2.01)
RON97 - RM2.36 (up 7 sen from RM2.29)
Diesel - RM1.99 (up 4 sen from RM1.95)
Via:
KPDNKK


Driven By Passion And Driving With Grab

It starts with the mechanical rumble as you start it up. That’s the initial buzz of excitement every car gives its owner.

The feel of running your palms across the steering wheel – and taking in the wide view out of the windscreen. The road ahead simply represents freedom and not much else. That rush of power as you push your right foot down on the throttle creates a feeling of purpose.

For a car enthusiast, driving is more than going from A-to-B. Being behind the wheel of their trusty machines on the open, if slightly congested roads, makes car enthusiasts feel like they’re in charge of what comes next.

Driving represents a break from the ordinary and a rush of excitement amidst the daily grind. The other half of this four-wheeled passion undeniably involves keeping their car in top shape and upgrading or customising the design and performance of their chosen rides.

Alas, maintaining and upgrading your car can be an expensive and time-consuming affair, especially with the rising costs of living. Not to mention the stresses our cars are put under given Malaysia’s climate, traffic conditions and less than smooth roads.

Fortunately, Grab now offers car enthusiast and indeed anyone with a passion for driving an
opportunity to earn
 lucrative fares and benefit from awesome reward programs that help drivers keep their vehicles in superb condition and operational costs low.

We caught up with Jessu, one such Grab driver and car enthusiast who has found a way to monetize his driving time and indulge in his hobby of enjoying and customising his car.

Before driving with Grab, what did you do for a living?

I manage the administrative tasks in my family's business, and I drive with Grab part-time. I work in Damansara and live in Kajang. Usually, I drive after office hours, till around 8.00PM before I head home. I drive more frequently during the weekends.

What triggered the interest to drive with Grab?

I was told by my friends that it was a good alternative source of income. Besides driving, I like meeting people and enjoy an interesting conversation. I had heard of Grab before, but when my friends recommended it, I decided to give it a try. With Grab, I get to kill two birds with one stone – make money while I drive and meet interesting people.

What do you love most about driving with Grab?

The side income it allows me to earn. It takes a strain off for life’s little extras and gives me and my family added financial freedom.
Money is one aspect - Grab drivers earn on average 48% more per hour compared to the wages of an average worker, so that is a definite plus. But, I'm one of those Malaysians who love driving despite the traffic or occasional potholes.

What’s your fondest memory as a Grab driver?

I’ve had many passengers, but given the time I drive, after work hours, most of my passengers are usually tired. But it's easy to tell that they appreciate the service and convenience.

Do you ever get tired of driving, do you have a schedule?

Since it’s only 2-3 hours on weekdays, it’s very flexible and I have enough time to rest and refresh for the next day. I don’t really have a schedule, I try to drive as much as I can when I have the time.

Before you started driving with Grab, did you ever think
to earn
 money by doing something you love was ever possible?

I won’t lie, working in Damansara and living in Kajang already gives me plenty of driving to do every day. (Laughs). But I would not have thought I could earn a lucrative side income doing something I enjoy.

What is your
favourite
 detail or feature of your car?

I have two cars – a Perodua Myvi and a Toyota Altis. I installed a DVD player and monitor at the back of my Altis, and it has proven to be a hit with my passengers.

What would be your dream car to drive with Grab?

I would love to own and drive a BMW 3 Series

With the cost of living rising, many would find it expensive to have a hobby with cars. What advice would you give other people out there who share similar interests as you?

My best advice is to allocate a budget. Monthly installments sometimes aren't the biggest issue – car owners also have to take into account road tax, car maintenance, and fuel bills. These add up! Fortunately, Grab gives us great reward programs that help drivers manage these costs, I especially love the PETRONAS fuel savings I get from the GrabAllStars program
.

Driving with Grab is so much more than just an income, it also opens up a world of benefits to its drivers, that is unmatched by any other platform out there. The portfolio of reward programs, such as the GrabAllStars program, is carefully crafted to help drivers manage the costs of maintenance of their cars, and return savings in the long-term.

The GrabAllStars reward program is divided into three tiers – Silver, Gold and Platinum. To receive Gold and Platinum rewards, drivers first have to become a Grab Ambassador.

With the GrabAllStars rewards program, Grab drivers can enjoy:

Fuel savings
 - Grab has teamed up with Malaysia’s leading oil and gas company to offer greater benefits to Grab drivers. Grab drivers can now obtain savings on PETRONAS fuel at up to 3%, 5% savings on Kedai Mesra items and 10% savings on PETRONAS Lubricants. This exclusive offer is only for Grab drivers because every little bit of savings can help lower daily operational costs.

Car Maintenance
 - As part of the GrabAllStars rewards program, Grab drivers are eligible for up to 30% savings on car servicing. What’s more, special prices on car parts and accessories are also available. As for Grab Drivers who encounter car problems, Grab has also made 'on-demand' roadside assistance available under this rewards program.

Lifestyle Benefits
 – The GrabAllStars program not only provides rewards relating to a Grab Driver’s vehicle, Grab drivers will also enjoy exclusive rebates on retail, F&B and e-shopping items from Grab's partners. Just recently, Grab and Ambi Pur worked together to improve the ride experience for passengers and drivers by fitting GrabCars with Ambi Pur air fresheners.

Now more than ever, car enthusiasts can earn money while doing what they love. As novelist Martin Amis once said, “Your purpose in driving is not to arrive at your destination safely or quickly. Your purpose when driving is to impress your personality on the road”.

Register to be a Grab driver
here
!

This post is sponsored by Grab Malaysia


Meet The “Wira Teksi” That Is Going To Be Driven On The Nurburgring

In a charming and heartfelt tribute to Malaysia – and to a large part Malaysia’s taxis – two Dutch brothers Jochem and Ruben Gravemade, have recreated with staggering detail, a Wira Teksi which has now taken on the legendary Nurburgring Circuit in Germany.

Having spent around 7 years in Malaysia in the past, Jochem and Ruben, founders of the automotive-based Dutch DIY Mechanics (DDM) Youtube channel, decided it’ll be a cool project to pay homage to the many taxis that ferried them around Kuala Lumpur during their time here. However, the car they would build will be prepped for stints on the hallowed “
Green Hell
” of Germany, which is normally reserved for the likes of high-performance road cars and purpose-built racecars.

As far as ideas go, this is as fresh and heartwarming as they get for any petrolhead in Malaysia.

Dubbed the Project
Proton
, the roughly 8 part video series (so far) documents how the brothers acquired not one but two units of the Wira – no easy feat as Protons were sold in limited numbers in Europe in the late 90s and early-2000s. The first unit, a 1.3L left-hand drive sedan would prove to be a dud, with an engine that barely ran. The electrical wiring had also seen better days.

They then sourced another (4G13) 1.3L unit which proved to be useless as well. The powertrain finally came together with the purchase of a second car with a working (4G15) 1.5L engine. The first car by now being used just for parts. Once the engine was running, the brothers set about getting the final touches of the car – this involved refreshing other wear and tear parts, changing the rims and upgrading the brakes, and fitting racing seats to handle the stresses of the ‘Ring’.

Of course, the coolest part of the project was wrapping the car in the familiar white and red colours of our Malaysian taxis and adding the all-important 'Teksi' badge on the front doors. In this case, printed with the letters “Teksi Ampang” as a homage to their hometown in Malaysia, and company registration “DDM Dutch Mechanics SDN BHD”.

The car even has a McDonalds Drive-Thru sticker – how is that for detail!

However, the brothers say the project isn’t done, because in addition to the “Kereta Sewa” sign (on the roof) common to most older taxis in Malaysia, the duo intent to fit a fully functioning taxi meter to fully complete the look and functionality of their Wira Teksi. Jochem and Ruben sourced these parts from a local fan, named Faiz who had access to these unique items and shipped it to the Netherlands.

The brother’s hope to ‘charge’ people, using the meter, for rides around the ring. It’s anyone’s guess if it ticks over in RM or Euro.

The
Proton Wira
 Teksi has since seen two stints on the Nurburgring and has lived to tell quite a story. While it might not be as fast as other cars we normally see tearing down the track, the novelty of having our much loved Malaysian icon on those hallowed grounds, and more importantly – to know that Malaysia had such a positive effect on Jochem and Ruben is a story in itself.


Bengkel Merah Jambu - Dari Wanita Untuk Wanita

Bagi wanita yang tidak tahu mengenai kereta, tidak tahu memilih bengkel terbaik dan
takut ditipu pihak bengkel
, sebuah bengkel di Shah Alam ditubuhkan oleh seorang wanita yang pernah mengalami masalah yang sama sebelum ini.

Saudah Salleh bersama suaminya Abdul Rahim Kassim bertekad membuka
bengkel
 membaiki kereta yang memberi fokus kepada wanita sejak lima tahun lalu. Lebih menarik, bengkel yang terletak di Seksyen U2, Shah Alam ini turut dicat dengan warna merah jambu yang sering dikaitkan dengan wanita untuk menunjukkan betapa seriusnya mereka ingin membantu golongan wanita yang kurang pengetahuan tentang kereta.

Satu kajian oleh
Bosch
 Automotive Aftermarket mendedahkan hanya satu peratus wanita mampu menyelesaikan masalah berkaitan kenderaan mereka sekiranya berlaku kerosakan, berbanding kaum lelaki sebanyak 48 peratus.

Walaupun bersuamikan seorang mekanik, Saudah sendiri pernah mengalami insiden
kerosakan kereta
 di jalan raya dan tidak tahu apa yang harus dilakukan ketika itu, lapor Harian Metro.

Berdasarkan kejadian itu, Saudah tekad untuk memberikan kesedaran kepada wanita mengenai penyelenggaraan kereta supaya lebih berpengetahuan dan mengelak dari ditipu bengkel. Memahami secara lebih mendalam juga membuatkan wanita menjadi lebih berdikari dan tidak mengharapkan suami semata-mata dalam hal servis dan kerosakan kereta.

"Ada seorang pelanggan wanita, hampir setahun tidak menukar
minyak hitam
 kerana menyangka tidak perlu berbuat demikian selepas tamat tempoh penyelenggaraan dengan pusat servis kenderaan,” katanya.

Antara punca masalah ini berlaku kerana pemilik bengkel atau mekanik sendiri tidak menjelaskan kepada pelanggan wanita dan menganggap mereka sudah ‘tahu’ tentang urusan servis kereta. Disebabkan itulah, ramai wanita yang hanya datang ke bengkel apabila kereta sudah tidak dapat bergerak.

Menyedari perkara itu, pihaknya tampil menyediakan solusi untuk membantu wanita yang berdepan masalah berkenaan.

Mekanik di bengkel ini dididik dan diajar untuk memahami bahasa wanita. Misalnya, ramai wanita mengatakan kereta ‘mati’ enjin tetapi tidak dapat menjelaskan secara lanjut mengenainya.

“Kebiasaannya wanita tidak tahu apa yang perlu dijelaskan dan hanya memberitahu kereta rosak. Padahal ia mungkin disebabkan kerosakan pada enjin atau
bateri
,” jelasnya.

Sementara itu salah seorang pelanggan tetapnya, Iera Yusoff berkata, dia selesa untuk ke bengkel terbabit biarpun perlu memandu jauh dari Klang semata-mata untuk mendapat perkhidmatan terbaik.

Saudah sentiasa meletakkan dirinya sebagai seorang pelanggan dalam memberi penerangan dan sentiasa memastikan wanita yang datang ke bengkelnya berasa selesa dan faham akan
masalah kereta
 yang mereka hadapi.

“Sifat semula jadi wanita sememangnya tidak suka kepada perkara berkaitan teknikal. Mungkin disebabkan banyak tanggungjawab yang perlu dilaksanakan di rumah membuatkan mereka mengabaikan perkara membabitkan kenderaan sedangkan ia sangat penting. Apa yang sering saya tekankan adalah mengetahui mengenai
perkara asas
 bagi mengelak ditipu,” tegasnya.

Selain menguruskan kerja di bengkel bersama suami, Saudah turut memberikan pendidikan mengenai kenderaan di media sosial. Secara tidak langsung dia dapat mendidik pemandu wanita mengenai perkara asas misalnya mengisi
angin tayar
, mengesan kerosakan pada bateri dan memahami mengapa perlu menghantar kereta ke bengkel apabila kenderaan sudah bergerak sejauh 5,000 atau 10,000 kilometer.

Pendekatan yang diambil Saudah untuk memudahkan urusan wanita ke bengkel antara usaha yang patut dipuji. Rata-rata masyarakat beranggapan wanita hanya perlu meminta bantuan daripada suami atau kenalan apabila melibatkan hal kereta tapi penulis berpandangan tidak salah untuk wanita memahami selok-belok kereta walaupun secara dasarnya sahaja, untuk mengelakkan diri menjadi mangsa penipuan.

Lagipun, ramai wanita yang belum berkahwin jadi nak bergantung harap pada siapa? Tentulah pada diri sendiri.
Knowledge is power,
 belajarlah selagi mampu untuk memudahkan diri sendiri juga.

*Kredit semua foto: Harian Metro


Audi PB18 e-tron To Electrify This Year’s Pebble Beach Car Week

Audi has announced that it will be revealing its new electric supercar concept at the upcoming Pebble Beach Car Week in Monterey, California.
Called the PB18 e-tron, the concept’s abbreviated name refers to the Pebble Beach venue and the year of the debut.
Developed at the new Malibu Design Loft, Audi said that the PB18 e-tron is inspired by the Le-Mans-series winner Audi R18 e-tron.
The company didn’t release many details aside from the teaser image above and the tagline “Emotion instead of emissions: powerful electric drive.”
Set to be unveiled at 5 p.m. on August 23, 2018, on the Laguna Seca racetrack, the concept car will also be shown at the legendary vehicle presentation “The Quail” on August 24 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
In parallel to the show car's world premiere, Audi is also showing an extensive range of vintage cars and performance vehicles.
This is Audi’s second electric supercar after the R8 e-tron, the battery-powered version of the Audi R8 which was unveiled in 2009.


Tesla Cybertruck finally hitting the roads, but patience required

After years of anticipation, the long-awaited Tesla Cybertruck has entered the production phase.

The electric vehicle (EV) giant recently announced that it has commenced building its battery-powered truck at Gigafactory Texas. This milestone comes two years later than initially expected and four years after the pickup's initial announcement.

Tesla's CEO, Elon Musk, took to Twitter on a weekend to share the exciting news, posting a snapshot of the first Cybertruck surrounded by dedicated workers. Gigafactory Texas will play a crucial role in the production of both the Cybertruck and the Tesla Semi. The fact that Tesla has finally met its production timeline target, set when the EV was unveiled in November 2019, adds further momentum to the excitement.

Originally slated for production in 2021
, according to Tesla, supply chain challenges due to the Covid-19 pandemic pushed the release date to 2022. However, Musk confirmed last fall that production would indeed begin this year. Although only one Cybertruck has been produced so far, Tesla seems committed to fulfilling its CEO's latest promise.

With production underway, expectations for the finished EV are high. Elon Musk has tempered some of the bolder claims he made in 2019, such as the entry-level model starting at $39,000 (RM177k). While the price remains a point of interest, the Cybertruck's impressive capabilities hold the key to winning over enthusiasts.

If it can carry a 3,500-pound payload, tow up to 14,000 pounds, and deliver the promised 800-km range on a single charge, the Cybertruck could become a game-changer in the pickup truck market.

While it's thrilling to see Cybertrucks being manufactured in Texas, prospective buyers should exercise patience. Elon Musk has candidly stated that production starts slow, and mass production won't begin until next year. This measured approach ensures that Tesla maintains its reputation for delivering high-quality vehicles.


Detroit 2016: Lexus LC 500 debuts with all-new global platform

Four years after showing the LF-LC Concept at the 2012 Detroit Auto Show, Lexus returns to the 2016 edition with an actual production car derived from the concept vehicle; the all-new Lexus LC 500, which is being positioned as the brand’s new flagship coupe.
Driving force behind the LC 500’s development is current Toyota chief Akio Toyoda, who describes it as ‘an important product for Lexus and [him] personally’.
“This flagship luxury coupe's proportions, stunning design and performance make a strong statement about our brands' emotional direction, and will grow the Lexus luxury appeal globally,” Toyoda said at the vehicle’s unveiling.
Under Toyoda’s guidance, the LC was developed with what was claimed to be a heightened level of collaboration between design, engineering and marketing teams. What this means is a vehicle that feels less like it is designed by a committee but rather more cohesive and better integrated.
Powering the LC 500 is an all-aluminium naturally-aspirated 32-valve 5.0-litre V8 taken from the RC F and GS F performance models tuned to produce a maximum output of 467hp and 527Nm, both delivered high up the tachometer at 7,100 and 4,800rpm respectively. Mated with an all-new 10-speed torque converter automatic transmission, the LC 500 needs less than 4.5 seconds to reach 96km/h (60mph) from rest.
Whilst the LC 500 is likely to be limited to an exclusive number of vehicles on the road, the hardware underneath will be more far-reaching. The 2+2 coupe sits on Lexus’ all-new GA-L global platform configured specifically for all of the company’s future front-engine rear-wheel drive models.
Weight and distribution of weight is given great attention with the LC 500. Lightweight materials such as carbon fibre for the roof, doors with aluminium panels and carbon fibre frames, and composite boot floor are extensively used. As much of the vehicle’s mass is crammed into central and lowered positions as possible to give it a near ideal 52 percent front-biased weight distribution. Usage of run-flats negates the need for a spare tyre, and the 12V battery is placed astern.
Structurally, the LC boasts the stiffest monocoque frame ever used in a Lexus vehicle. Strategic use of lightweight, high-strength steel helps it achieve torsional rigidity that exceeds even the brand’s own LFA supercar.
Lexus further claims that particular attention was devoted to the LC 500's aluminium-intensive multilink suspension system. Double ball joints on the upper and lower control arms allow for control of the smallest movements from the driver inputs and road conditions. Additionally, the setup is claimed to improve wheel control as well as providing more precise steering response.
"We spent more than triple the usual amount of R&D time to pursue linear steering and to find the sweet spot for road contact feel. We also focused our efforts on suspension rigidity and enhancing geometry. Thanks to advancements in product engineering, we are now at a world-class level for suspension rigidity, and performance when lateral g's are applied,” said Koji Sato, Chief Engineer of the LC 500 project.


Minimum Age For A Motorcycle License Should Be 21, not 16 - says CAP

The Consumers Association of Penang (CAP) has expressed that it wants to urge the government to increase the minimum age for Malaysians to be eligible to obtain a motorcycle license from 16-years to 21-years of age.
Bernama
 reports that SM Mohamed Idris, CAP’s president, explained the reasoning behind the association’s push was because, given the inherent instability of the motorcycle, riders are the most vulnerable of road users.
He said motorcycles and their riders are 17 times more prone to accidents than those in cars because of their two-wheeled design, calling them “killer machines”.
During a press conference in George Town, he stated: "Each year, there are an average of 465,000 road accidents resulting in nearly 7,000 deaths and 60 per cent or 4,200 of the deaths are contributed by motorcyclists, with 40 per cent of them between 16 and 25 years of age,"
“Parents should not allow their children to ride motorcycles without a license.”
He added that, in addition, the imposing of a stricter training curriculum at driving schools should be put in place before students could be issued a license. They should also be taught defensive riding skills.


All-New 2017 Hyundai Elantra Open For Bookings; Delivery By Raya

Hyundai-Sime Darby Motors (HSDM) has opened its order books for the all-new Elantra, with deliveries set to commence before Hari Raya this year (25-26 June 2017). Three variants have been announced, with estimated prices ranging from RM125,000 to RM135,000.
A 1.6-litre four-cylinder turbocharged petrol powerplant from the Gamma engine family headlines the range, with rated outputs of 204PS @ 6,000rpm and 265Nm @ 1,500 – 4,500rpm. This engine powers the 1.6 Turbo Sport variant priced at an estimated RM135,000.
Remaining two variants – 2.0 MPI Executive and 2.0 MPI Dynamic – are powered by a 2.0-litre Nu four-cylinder petrol engine delivering 152PS @ 6,200rpm and 192Nm @ 4,000rpm. Prices for these two variants are estimated at RM120,000 for the Executive and RM125,000 for the Dynamic variant.
Details are kept scarce at the moment; HSDM’s announcement mentions only an emergency fastening device, hands-free smart trunk, and ‘more exciting features’ to be unveiled at the model’s upcoming launch.
Featuring advanced high-strength steel body construction, the Elantra was recently awarded five stars by the Australasian New Car Assessment Programme with an overall score of 35.01 out of 37 points.


Malaysian Teams Reign Victorious at Shell Eco-Marathon Asia 2017

Team UiTM Eco-Sprint from Universiti Teknologi Mara (UiTM) Shah Alam, Malaysia just emerged victorious at the recently held Shell Eco-Marathon Asia 2017 in the Hydrogen category for the fourth consecutive time.
Having achieved a result of 359.4km/m3, the team finished ahead of another Malaysian team - University of Malaya’s Eco-Voyager, which managed to achieve a final reading of 255.7km/m3.
Team UiTM Eco-Sprint’s manager Amirah Athirah Rohazam said, “This competition has tested us beyond our technical abilities and really pushed us to better our time and project management skills, all of which are useful non-technical proficiencies in our field.”
“I wish more teams will benefit from the competition like we did and hope that the future teams representing the country will win again with better results In addition, I hope competitions like this will help to popularise STEM subjects in Malaysian education institutions, especially amongst aspiring women engineers,” she said.
nt cars. This year, 123 student teams from 20 countries competed in either of two categories of the competition: Prototype – futuristic and highly aerodynamic vehicles – or UrbanConcept – highly economical vehicles that resemble today’s cars. These categories were further divided into three sub-categories of energy sources, of which students would select from: Internal Combustion Engine (ICE): Gasoline, diesel, ethanol (biofuel), Gas to Liquid (GTL) fuel made from natural gas, CNG (compressed natural gas); hydrogen fuel cell; and battery electric power.
“For eight years now, the regions’ brightest minds have come together to design, build and test their energy efficient vehicles at the Shell Eco-marathon. I’m especially proud of our young Malaysian engineers and innovators who have showcased their tenacity and perseverance alongside their technical expertise to address the global need for cleaner energy. Year after year, we see them improving not just their designs, but also their confidence – after all, the competition puts more than their engineering capabilities on display. It also harnesses their soft skills such as team leadership, marketing and communications, and business acumen as well,” said Datuk Iain Lo, Shell Malaysia Country Chairman.
Team UM Eco-Voyager’s manager S.Inthiran on the other hand, said, “Our team members are all from various engineering departments – some are from mechanical, some others are from electrical.
“And in designing this car, we came together to produce a more fuel-efficient automobile, integrating our learnings from a diverse expertise and bringing our theoretical knowledge to life. We also really pushed ourselves to win as this competition put us on an international stage and representing Malaysia beyond our faculties and university was an honour.”
Celebrating the best of energy and mobility, the competition saw student teams from Asia Pacific and the Middle East showcase their self-built vehicles at the eighth edition of Shell Eco-marathon Asia that was featured as part of the Make the Future Singapore festivals for the first time.
This year, the competition also took on an additional element of excitement with the inaugural Drivers’ World Championship (DWC) Asia, an exciting race format in which the best teams in the region will compete for their place in the Drivers’ World Championship Grand Final in London in on May 28, 2017.
Two teams from Indonesia and one from the Philippines will represent Asia to face-off against the best three teams from both the Americas and Europe to be crowned overall Grand Final champions and earn a once-in-a-lifetime experience at the home of Scuderia Ferrari
The Shell Eco-Marathon competition that has been running in Europe for more than three decades and in the United States since 2007 made its debut in Asia in 2010 and Malaysia was the first country in this region to host the competition.
In every region, similar rules apply in which, all vehicles must pass a set of technical tests before they are allowed onto the competition circuit to see how far they can get on the least amount of fuel, and potentially achieve the highest mileage in the competition.


TTJ Tunku Idris’ Honda e Kena Scrape By BMW Singapore Mari

In Malaysia, some drivers really ‘perangai’ lah, even if they're just visiting from beyond our borders. Such was the case with a grey Singapore-registered BMW 3 Series (F30, 320i?) that scraped
a Honda e
 somewhere in Johor, which belonged to a member of Johor royalty.

Even worse news for that careless BMW driver, the incident was all captured clearly on CCTV. Tunku Temenggong Johor Tunku Idris Iskandar Ibni Sultan Ibrahim, the owner of the electric Honda hatch, posted a picture of the car’s damaged fender as well as a picture of the car that inflicted it on social media.

The surveillance video was also uploaded, which showed the 3 Series clearly taking a much-too-wide berth to move into an empty parking nose-first space on its right-hand side, colliding with the Honda e which was parallel parked and out of its way. You can see the car sway a little as the BMW
scraped against it
.

More bewildering was the nonchalant attitude of the driver, who continued to park his car and just walked away without even so much as glancing at the damage he inflicted. Perhaps he presumed nobody had, or would, notice. And that this matter will just blow over.....Nice try, buddy.

That might have been the case if his irresponsible driving/parking involved another car belonging to you or me. Shame, then, for him, that the owner happened to be a high-profile individual - a member of the royal family (of the very state the Singaporean was visiting) no less, and noted car enthusiast.

Do they not teach proper driving technique
or etiquette
 in Singapore?

We’re not sure if the attention this is getting will result in any action taken against the Singaporean 3 Series driver, especially when he attempts to cross the causeway. Guess it all depends on whether Tunku Idris chooses to pursue compensation. He might just brush it off given the fleet of cars he and his family has access to, but any normal driver would be more than a little livid.

For all we know, the matter has already been resolved. And we sincerely hope the righteous thing was done.

So far as the damaged car is concerned, the scrape doesn’t look too bad - it, or the majority, might even 'pop' and buff out. The ‘e’ as it’s called is one of the more interesting and innovative cars to emerge from Honda in the past few years.

Conceived as a shorter-distance city car and even debuting in 2017
as the Urban EV Concept
, its design was inspired by the original Honda Civic and evokes similar cues from other small hatchbacks of the 1970s and early 80s such as the VW Golf MK1 and Peugeot 205, but given a much more modern twist.

Inside, the e’s cabin is notably large when contrasted against its exterior dimensions and utilises many natural, recycled, and recyclable materials while its dashboard consists of an immense 5-screen array to (over) serve all driving and infotainment needs.

Within its rounded shell resides a
35.5kWh
 lithium-ion battery and single electric motor at the rear axle that’s able to output
154PS
 and
315Nm
, sustaining the hatch for as much as
220km
 on a single charge based on Honda’s claims.

That’s more range, more power, and more torque than
the recently launched Mazda MX-30
, another Japanese EV that coincidentally also sports a 35.5kWh battery. It’s a wonder why Honda Malaysia doesn’t seem keen to offer the e locally as its specifications and general appeal…


New York 2018: All-New 2019 Subaru Forester – New Global Platform, Updated Engine

Subaru has rolled out the latest generation of its global top-selling model, the all-new Subaru Forester at the ongoing New York Motor Show.
The fifth-generation model is based on Subaru’s new Global Platform which boasts improved collision safety and hazard avoidance technology, and is the first vehicle to feature Subaru’s Driver Monitoring System.
The familiar hallmarks of Subaru vehicle technology are clear and present – including the EyeSight driver assist system, Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive drivetrain, X-Mode for enhanced all-terrain drivability, and a newly developed 2.5-liter direct-injection engine.
The Forester is powered by a newly developed 2.5-liter four-cylinder horizontally opposed (Boxer) power plant that features around 90 percent new components and introduces direct injection. Power is up by 12 hp to 182 hp and torque is up 3 Nm to 239 Nm (for the U.S. model).
The engine is mated to CVT-type automatic transmission, which is augmented though Subaru's 'SI Drive’ drive mode selector, now optimised for better response and more “direct” shifting patterns.
Subaru’s X-Mode
, which controls the engine, transmission, and brakes on slippery surfaces and in poor driving conditions has been further updated for better driveability.
Subaru’s Eyesight driver assist system comes standard on all variants in the U.S. Additionally, the Forester’s Rear Vehicle Detection system detects vehicles approaching from the rear, while the Reverse Automatic Braking system can apply the brakes to reduce the risk of a collision when reversing. The aforementioned Driver Monitoring System provides a warning when it detects signs of distraction or drowsiness when at the wheel.
The Forester is equipped with a total of seven airbags as standard in all variants.
Measuring in at 4,625 mm in length, 1,815 mm in width and 1,730 mm in height, the all-new Forester is 15 mm longer, 129 mm wider and 29 mm taller (not including roof rails) than the
outgoing model
. The wheelbase has also grown by 31 mm to 2,670 mm.
Aesthetically, the changes are less dramatic – the front fascia has a cleaner, up to date look, while at the back, the tail lamps now stretch across the rear boot section. Nine exterior colours are offered, including the new Jasper Green Metallic, exclusive to the Forester.
On the inside, Subaru has revised the interior to be more ergonomic and functional - the instrument panel and console have been combined to create a more ergonomic dash layout. Four interior colour schemes are available, including a brown leather interior that provides a luxurious appearance.
The dated air-conditioning controls have also been swapped in favour of new switchgear.
In terms of infotainment, the Forester offers an 8-inch infotainment screen on selected variants, with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility. The new infotainment system offers Wi-Fi hotspot capability.
On selected variants, a remote engine start function is also offered.


Volkswagen introduces 'New Volkswagen' brand design

Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia today announced its fresh new vision and attitude. An attitude that is bolder, more colourful, built on the ethos of Vibrant Power.

Together with this new vision and attitude also comes a new logo. A logo that is simpler yet more modern. It is flat, two-dimensional and more digitally adaptable. For the first time ever in its history the iconic Volkswagen brand name will be voiced by a woman. Good on you VW!

Erik Winter, Managing Director of VPCM said that this introduction represents a new era for the brand. “We have always been digital first here in Malaysia, having pioneered numerous ground-breaking initiatives, from selling our cars on ecommerce sites to launching our digital showroom. In such challenging times, we recognise the need to be even more customer-centric, and to be able to move to the new brand design completes this transformation for us. The principles of ‘people first, ‘new attitude’ and ‘digital first’ will shape our future direction in better reaching out and creating a new Volkswagen experience for our customers.”

For a brand the size of Volkswagen this rebranding is no small undertaking. 171 markets spanning 10,000 dealerships in fact. In Malaysia alone, 21 dealerships will see a revamp in stages which should be completed by the end of the year.

Be sure to also check out the new Volkswagen website for it now boasts a simpler user navigation for both desktop and mobile.

When asked which will be the first model released in Malaysia that will sport the new logo, Erik answered the Golf Mk 8.


2023 Nissan GT-R now on sale in the US - From RM537k

Nissan USA has officially announced that the
2023 Nissan GT-R
 is available for purchase from $113,540 (around RM537,000).

Just when you thought the
GT-R R35
 book is closed for good (especially in Japan with the final T-spec and Nismo variants), Nissan dealers in the US are offering the JDM legend in two variants as well - Premium and Nismo.

GT-R R35 sales still strong?

Nissan's HQ in Japan has stated in the recent past that the sales for the 2022 Nissan GT-R have officially ended as it has reached the planned sales volume. Initially, the last two variants in Japan for 2022 would be the T-spec and Nismo Special Edition while the US market will be selling these as 2021 models. Well, it's now the 2023 model year.

It's no surprise that the demand for the R35 is still strong in a JDM-obsessed country like the US. For the 2023 year model, customers can opt between the Premium or Nismo GT-R which carries vastly different specs as well as price tags.

RM997k for the GT-R Nismo edition

If you're a baller with no idea how to spend your millions, the 2023 Nissan GT-R Nismo Edition can be yours for only $210,740 or around the RM997k mark. That's quite a price to 'invest' in but these might just be the last new GT-R models to be sold in the US.

The Nismo version comes with upgraded turbochargers taken directly from the GT3 GT-R race car which bumps the power output from 565hp to 600hp. Torque is also increased from 633Nm to 652Nm plus other features like Nismo-tuned suspension, carbon fibre bodywork, larger Brembo carbon-ceramic brakes, and more.


Hyundai India's Latest Ad Is More Emotional Than An Episode Of Zee TV Drama

Hyundai has just completed 20 years of operations in India, and in an effort to celebrate the milestone event, the company has launched the ‘Brilliant Moments with Hyundai’ ad campaign.
The campaign aims to provide owners of the Santro, Accent, and the i10 models in India with a unique platform through various experiential marketing initiatives, to share their nostalgic stories with their Hyundais.
To kick start the campaign, the company has released an emotional video called ‘The deal with Accent.
The video shows Motu, the owner of a 20-year old Hyundai Accent wanting to sell the car against the will of his father. However, after going through an unexpected emotional trip down memory lane in the midst of a sales deal, he decides not to sell the car, much to the joy of his parents.
Just like the video, customers who have memorable experiences with their Hyundai i10, Accent, and the Santro in India can share their stories with Hyundai, which will select the best 10 and turn them into individual films.
The 10 films will then be shared on a dedicated website, where viewers can vote for the one they like.
The top 3 films with the highest votes will be gifted a Hyundai car each by Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan, who is also the brand ambassador.
Speaking at the launch of Brilliant Moments Campaign, Y.K Koo, the CEO of Hyundai Motor India Limited said, “As we set our vision for the next 20 years to become the most trusted brand in India, we want to thank and extend gratitude to all our customers who entrusted us with their love and became a part of this beautiful journey in the past 20 years.”
Besides the campaign, Hyundai Motor India is also offering free car inspection, 10% discount on parts, and 20% discount on labour, oil, and value added services to owners of the Santro, i10, and the Accent throughout the month of July as part of the celebration.


Porsche Malaysia marks milestone with 1,000th locally assembled Cayenne

Porsche Malaysia celebrates a significant milestone as they reach the production of the 1,000th locally assembled Cayenne in Malaysia. The locally assembled Cayenne, built with Porsche's renowned standards of quality, is tailored specifically for the Malaysian market, offering exceptional performance and craftsmanship.

Porsche Malaysia, represented by Sime Darby Auto Performance, recently marked a significant achievement as they celebrated the production of the 1,000th
Porsche Cayenne at their Inokom assembly facility in Kulim, Kedah.

This milestone highlights the strong demand for the locally assembled Cayenne, which has become a favourite among Malaysian Porsche enthusiasts.

The Porsche Cayenne, known as the "sports car for five," has been an integral part of the Porsche family for over 20 years. With its off-road capabilities, dynamic on-road performance, and luxurious features, the latest Cayenne continues to embody the essence of a versatile all-rounder.

Christopher Hunter, CEO of Sime Darby Auto Performance, expressed his delight at reaching this milestone and emphasised the Cayenne's popularity among customers.

"We are very pleased to reach this milestone with the locally assembled Cayenne, affirming once again that the Porsche SUV remains a favourite with our customers. Our local assembly facility in Inokom continues to support our growth, to meet the demand from sports car fans in Malaysia. This growth in demand also speaks volumes about our high quality – proof that a Porsche is built to the highest standards," said Christopher

The assembly facility in Inokom reflects Porsche's commitment to Malaysia and its partnership with Sime Darby. The facility is staffed entirely by skilled Malaysians, contributing to the growth of local communities.

For customers who desire personalisation, the locally assembled Cayenne offers a range of lifestyle-oriented equipment accessories. These include a roof transport system with a bicycle rack, a luggage net, a luggage compartment liner, all-weather floor mats, and a car care case.

Those seeking more exclusivity can opt for the Porsche Exclusive Manufaktur Package, which enhances the luxury elements of the Cayenne.

Additionally, a custom-made chronograph watch inspired by the Cayenne is available from Porsche Design. Customers can customise the coloured ring on the dial to match their Cayenne's colour scheme, and individual engravings can be added to create a truly unique timepiece.

Since its launch, the locally assembled Cayenne has embarked on adventurous journeys across Malaysia, showcasing its capabilities as a luxurious and reliable travel companion.

Prominent figures like Malaysian photojournalist Annice Lyn have explored scenic routes, natural landscapes, and cultural sites, capturing the essence of the Cayenne's versatility and performance.

To learn more about the Porsche Cayenne, interested individuals can visit the nearest Porsche Centre.


Nissan Serena Nismo Goes On Sale In Japan, 3.1 Million Yen

A couple of months ago,
Nissan unveiled the Serena Nismo at the Tokyo Motor Show
. That tricked-out MPV is finally going on sale in Japan, for a whopping 3,419,280 yen (RM 125,803.48). Okay, the price isn't all too crazy, but the regular Nissan Serena goes for 3,125,720 yen (RM 114,800.10) or so, making it roughly RM 10,000 more than the standard model.
What does all of the extra money get you? The additional equipment as is we have come to expect from Nismo variants of Nissan's regular passenger cars: exterior bits, interior bits, a bit of suspension tuning, and a slightly louder exhaust. The powertrain is a fairly standard naturally aspirated 2.0-litre engine, paired with an XTronic CVT that sends power to the front wheels. Interestingly enough they've also adapted the VSC in the Serena Nismo to be completely disabled if the driver so wishes- with is a strange choice for an MPV.
There has also been work done on the electric assist steering and the ECU, and a nummber of strengthening braces and bars to make the car a little more rigid. Also included with this Serena Nismo is the ProPILOT system that offers semi-autonomous driving, which is actually far more relevant to the Serena than the Nismo pieces. The full equipment list is as above.
We're not entirely sure what the target market for this car will be, but we're sure there must be some reasonable market share for a car like this if Nissan is willing to offer it. One wonders if the engineers at Nismo take these projects up to kill time in between producing incredibly quick versions of the Nissan GT-R, but seeing a number of Serenas screeching around a test track would definitely be something worth seeing.


2020 (G05) BMW X5 xDrive45e Hybrid Launched – The Electrified Goliath Is Back…RM440,745

We take a closer look at the new BMW X5 xDrive45e M Sport SUV. Now officially launched in Malaysia.

Hot on the heels of the launch of the all-new
(G06) BMW X6
, BMW Malaysia has now introduced the much-awaited X5 xDrive45e plug-in hybrid variant of its seminal SUV, or Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) as they like to call it.

The second-generation of BMWs hugely successful hybrid X5 is offered here in its singular ‘M Sport’ trim package, priced at RM440,745, OTR excluding insurance, the recent sales tax exemption resulted in a further RM8k drop, from RM448,800.

That price makes the X5 xDrive45e roughly RM60k more than its closest competitor, the
Volvo XC90 T8
 PHEV. However, the hybrid's pricetag is roughly RM200k less than the
non-hybrid BMW X5 xDrive40i
 first introduced last year.

In terms of the platform, the new X5 has much in common with its sedan compatriots. Underpinning it is a variant of BMW’s CLAR platform first brought in with the 7 Series and eventually implemented with the current 5 Series and 3 Series.

The locally-assembled model xDrive45e (45e) is powered by a 3.0-litre six-cylinder engine packing BMW’s ‘eDrive’ technology delivering a maximum output of 394hp and a combined peak torque of 600Nm.

Those figures represent a 78hp increase of power and a whopping 150Nm increase in torque over the previous (F15) X5 xDrive40e model, and an increase of 54hp and 150Nm over the non-hybrid X5 xDrive40i  – this makes the 45e the most powerful 'non-M' X5 ever sold in Malaysia.

It’s not just the power that has increased, efficiency is up too, in ‘full-electric’ mode, the 45e has an electric driving range of up to 77km (up from 30km for the previous 40e) on a full charge, and is able to travel at a top speed of 135km/h. This courtesy of the latest-generation Lithium-Ion batteries fitted under the rear floor. The new 45e also features a low fuel consumption of 2.5 l/100km and claimed carbon emissions of 56g/km.

Power is sent to BMW’s seminal 8-speed Steptronic transmission which is integrated with the synchronous electric motor. From there, power is transmitted to all four wheels via BMW’s xDrive all-wheel drive system. The New X5 45e is now also equipped with the 2-Axle air suspension on the front and rear axles, maximising its dynamic ability and comfort levels. Performance figures read 5.6 seconds for the 0-100km/h sprint and a top speed of 235km/h.

On the outside, the M Sport package adds 20-inch M light-alloy wheels in Star-Spoke style 740 M Bicolour, along with the signature M Sport brakes, finished in blue.

Here’s a shortlist of the major equipment of the X5 xDrive45e:

20-inch M light-alloy wheels

Panoramic glass roof

Adaptive LED headlights

BMW Display Key

Vernasca genuine leather upholstery

LED ambient lighting

4-zone automatic air-conditioning

Contactless opening and closing tailgate

12.3-inch BMW Live Cockpit Professional instrument panel

BMW Gesture control infotainment

Dual 10.2-inch touch screen monitors for rear passengers

16-speaker (464W) Harman Kardon sound system

Active Cruise Control

Lane departure warning and lane change warning

Front Collision Warning with brake intervention

Rear cross-traffic collision alert and prevention

Heads-up Display

Surround view camera

Parking Assist Plus With Reverse Assistant (records last 50 metres of the journey)

Additionally, the xDrive45e is equipped with Comfort Access 2.0 which enables contactless locking and unlocking, meaning the door handle does not need to be grabbed or touched to lock or unlock the vehicle. Sensors on each side of the vehicle will recognise the vehicle key and lock/unlock the vehicle when the driver approaches or walks away from the car.

Contactless opening/closing is also available at the back with the top and bottom section of the tailgate opened electronically when one slides waves their feet under the rear bumper. The boot itself offers 500 litres of luggage space, which can be increased to 1,720 litres with the rear seats lowered.

Colour offerings for the New BMW X5 xDrive45e M Sport include Phytonic Blue, Black Sapphire, Mineral White and Artic Grey. They will be complemented with exquisite interior upholstery of Leather ‘Vernasca’ design perforations in black and a fine-wood trim ‘Fineline Stripe’ with brown high-gloss.

As an added option, the exterior of the BMW X5 xDrive45e M Sport can be upgraded to feature BMW M Performance accessories, such as the front air inlet, exterior mirror cap, front and rear winglets, and rear diffuser in carbon fibre.

BMW X5 xDrive45e M Sport customers will receive the full suite of manufacturer support which includes the following:

BMW 5-Year Unlimited Mileage Warranty with Free Scheduled Service Programme

BMW 2-Year/ 24 Month Tyre Warranty Programme for its Run Flat Tyre offering and services

BMW Roadside Assistance and Accident Hotline

The BMW Group Loyalty+ Mobile App - BMW White Card

BMW Service Online

Additionally from now until 31st December 2020, purchase of the New BMW X5 xDrive45e M Sport will entitle new owners to an extended battery warranty of 8-year / 160,000km (whichever comes first), improved from the previous 6-year / 100,000km warranty programme.


Next-Gen Electric Volvos Will Have 1,000km Driving Range; Charging Times To Be Halved

Volvo is rapidly moving towards becoming a fully electric car company. In its recent ‘Tech Moment’ event, it outlined how the next-gen electric Volvos will Have 1,000km of driving range with charging times halved.

A central component in any electric vehicle is its batteries, therefore
Volvo
 now plans to bring its battery cell technology development and production closer to home, to better tailor its future
batteries to the needs of its customers
 – who all want longer range and faster charging times.

It will do so by improving lithium-ion battery technology on its
forthcoming second generation of electric cars
, starting with the company’s first SUV, inspired by the Concept Recharge which is underpinned by a completely new electric-only platform.

In the near term, Volvo Cars plan to work with leading Swedish battery company Northvolt to further increase the energy density in its battery cells by up to 50 percent compared to
what is on the market today
. Later this decade, Volvo Cars also looks to break the 1000 Wh/liter energy density milestone, in order to achieve 1,000 kilometres of real driving range per charge.

Current charging times are expected to be slashed in half by 2025 – when they rollout their third-generation of electrified vehicles – thanks to better battery technology and continuous improvements to the software and fast-charging technology.

“We want to constantly increase the customer benefits of driving a pure electric Volvo car,” said Henrik Green, Chief Technology Officer. “By simplifying the design and integration of our battery cells, we can reduce weight and maximize space, allowing for considerable improvements in battery capacity, range and charging times.”

Battery cells from Volvo Cars’ planned collaboration with Northvolt aim to be produced using 100 percent renewable energy, while it is working with other
battery suppliers to do the same by 2025
. Volvo Cars have a clear strategy to further reduce the carbon impact of batteries by making better use of the valuable material contained in them. Wherever possible, it intends to remanufacture or reuse batteries and is also investigating potential second-life applications, such as energy storage.

Volvo Cars’ electrification roadmap is firmly focused on vertical integration, involving the in-house design, development, and production of batteries, e-motors, and relevant software in collaboration with strategic partners. Besides, cleaner and more powerful batteries, Volvo is also developing their power units that offer bi-directional charging, allowing customers to offload excess electricity in their car battery to the power grid.

The company has confirmed to the XC90 – which will largely be
influenced by the Concept Recharge
 will offer this feature depending on the market.

Separately, Volvo Car Group has also announced a planned collaboration with Northvolt to develop and produce sustainable batteries. These will be tailored to power the next generation of pure electric Volvo and
Polestar cars
 and secure a future supply of sustainable batteries needed to support growth. The collaboration with Northvolt is key to Volvo Cars’ ambition to become a leader in the premium electric car segment and sell only pure electric vehicles by 2030.


Ford Donates Two Vehicles and Equipment to Montfort Boys Town

Ford Motor Company, together with its local partner Sime Darby Auto Connexion (SDAC), today named Montfort Boys Town in Selangor as the latest recipient of its Ford Conservation and Environmental Grants Programme in Malaysia.
It is said that two vehicles – a Ford Kuga and Ford Mondeo, as well as training equipment were donated for use by the students to gain practical knowledge and skills and assisting them towards becoming successful automotive technicians.
The school, which currently offers Sijil Kemahiran Malaysia (SKM), Automotive After Sales and Service training level one (SKM 1) and level two (SKM 2), will now be able to introduce the SKM 3 programme thanks to the Ford vehicles.
“Ford is proud to support the Montfort Boys Town and help further build on the learning opportunities and practical training and experience they can provide to their students,” said Bagus Susanto, managing director, Asia Pacific Emerging Markets, Ford Motor Company.
“Ford Conservation and Environmental Grants Programme is part of our continued investment in the social and economic development of our country. We hope our contribution will help the students gain the necessary skills and knowledge to enter the workforce and propel their future careers,” added Syed Ahmad Muzri Syed Faiz, managing director, Sime Darby Auto Connexion.


For The Ladies - CARSOME Makes Car Ownership As Easy As It Should Be

For anyone unfamiliar to the world of cars, much less the labyrinth of different cars to buy either new or used, merely venturing into car ownership can be quite daunting.

Narrowing the shortlist down to the right car isn’t something most people can necessarily intuit if unfamiliar with the lay of the land, and there are numerous other factors to consider as well - from value to features to financing to reliability and maintenance. Though this can be broadly true for men and women, it does present a unique set of challenges for female buyers.

In contrast, there are so many other purchasing decisions that pose much less mental burden outside the car buying sphere, and this is exactly where
CARSOME’s
 approach shines bright, transforming the complex aspects of searching for, buying, selling, and even maintaining a car into one that’s hassle-free, transparent and trusted.

The Literal Turn-Key Solution To All Things Cars

In these modern times, women lead busy, multifaceted lives that require the juggling of multiple priorities – from high-powered careers to leisurely pursuits, wellness, family, and friends. Cars should therefore (only) play a constructive role in any woman’s expanding ambitions.

Balancing family and personal matters with the demands of a career means that little time is left to focus on a laundry list of trivial matters – of which the car buying and selling process can quickly spiral into. Everyone is seeking turn-key solutions that prioritise clarity and convenience, which is exactly what CARSOME brings to the experience.

Each
CARSOME Certified car
 has been put through a rigorous 175-point inspection and reconditioning process done by qualified and skilled technicians to ensure it’s as close to pristine condition from the first time you step inside.

Even better, CARSOME goes the extra mile to take the hassle away by managing all the paperwork during the pre/post-purchase, and loan approval stages. Following this, you can opt to either collect your car at a CARSOME Experience Centre or choose home delivery, leaving no stone unturned in terms of customer convenience.

All CARSOME Certified cars also come with a 1-year warranty that covers all the essential components including the engine, transmission, and air conditioning system with even more comprehensive coverage available.

CARSOME Celebrates International Women’s Day

In celebration of International Women’s Day and the collective achievements of all women, CARSOME makes it possible for anyone to find a car that both empowers them and compliments their lifestyle.

Until the 31st of March, CARSOME is offering an extended 30-day money-back guarantee for ladies on their CARSOME Certified car purchase, providing all the assurance they need when making an investment as important as a car.

Not only CARSOME Certified cars are also covered with a one-year warranty, protecting it against potential repairs or maintenance issues, but in addition to that all female customers this month will also receive one month free insurance premium from Fi Life in conjunction with International Women’s Day.

During the CARSOME Autofair also happening this month (March 17th-19th), CARSOME is offering discounts of up to RM8,000 and a further RM1,000 discount claimable through the CARSOME mobile app, up to a 2-year extended vehicle warranty, free 20-point vehicle inspection, and many more attractive promotions. Additionally, female customers are eligible to receive a special free gift in conjunction with International Women’s Day.

First time buyers venturing into the often-daunting world of car ownership need not worry about sacrificing a worry-free experience over attractive pricing thanks to
CARSOME’s comprehensive Certified
 program in which the cars on offer are thoroughly inspected, repaired and refurbished.

Furthermore, in addition to having a
wide variety of vehicles to choose
 from, CARSOME makes the buying process seamless, transparent, and fuss-free.

What’s more,
CARSOME Service Centres
 also bring the same attributes to the after sales experience that prioritises convenience, quality and unbeatable value with service packages as low as RM98, bringing all your needs of proper car maintenance and upkeep under one roof.


Proton's smart#1 not your cup of tea? Then perhaps the upcoming Volvo EX30 might just be the 1

Volvo will debut the wallet and city-friendly EX30 in a few months to lure younger buyers to its EV lineup. If Volvo continues to locally assemble their EVs, then it might be even cheaper than the smart#1.

Right now as it is, Volvo EVs are one of the most relatively value-packed electric vehicles on the market, and just as you thought it couldn't get any better, Volvo is about to debut a more value-for-money EV, targeted towards younger buyers.

Picture credit: WhichCar

Set for a June debut, the EX30 will be a city-friendly EV that'll sit under the XC40. According to CarSales, Volvo boss Jim Rowan pledged that the EX30 will be "very safe" and offer a "decent range".

It will not only be downsized in size, but it'll also be downsized in price, which according to Swedish auto manufacturer will help them reach a wider audience.

"The age demographic that we have at Volvo is a lot older than we would like; we'd like to get some more younger people into the brand," the CEO told
CarSales
.

We'll have to wait till June for more details, but so far, the EX30 has been said to be built upon Volvo's Sustainable Experience Architecture (SEA) platform, just like the
Smart #1
, which Proton will distribute this year.

Just like most EVs that are
built through the SEA platform
, the EX30 will be rear-wheel drive as standard, and buyers will have the options of several battery sizes. But since it'll be smaller than the XC40 Pure Electric, don't expect it to be large, but it still should come with decent range.

Picture credit: Automoto.com

Production of the Volvo EX30 will take place in China, and the EV is scheduled to make its debut in June 2023 and go on sale shortly after. Just like most Volvo EVs these days, you will probably be able to purchase it online.


KL Northern Dispersal Expressway Planned For 2024

A new
highway
 called the KL Northern Dispersal Expressway (KL Node) is currently being planned to connect the northern and eastern corridors of the Klang Valley.

Proposed to begin in 2024, the so-called final link in the plans for the KL Outer Ring Road system will theoretically help ease some congestion on the Middle Ring Road 2, particularly in Jalan Kuching as it connects the
KL-Kuala Selangor Expressway (LATAR)
 and
East Klang Valley Expressway (EKVE)
.

Connection between LATAR & EKVE

The KL Node highway will also be mostly elevated throughout its 24km span which is said to run from Hulu Kelang, Melawati, Melati, Gombak, Selayang Heights, to Kanching Eco Forest Park. Quite a nice-looking plan since the entry and exit points for the LATAR and EKVE are in Rawang (Kanching Eco Forest Park) and Ukay Perdana (Hulu Kelang).

The KL Node highway project is currently being proposed and finalised by Sambungan Lebuhraya Timur Sdn Bhd (SLT). HSS Engineers Berhad has already been appointed as the project consultant for this particular project.

SLT is currently getting ready to get the final approval with ongoing discussions with some of Selangor's government agencies, which include the likes of the Ampang Jaya and Selayang municipal councils. It's a crucial process as the KL Node highway plans to pass through areas that include hills, villages, and even residential areas.


Porsche 918 Spyder Joins Dubai Police’s Crazy-Awesome High-Speed Pursuit Fleet

As if we needed another excuse to wallow in shame and jealousy having not owned one or most or all of the cars that the extremely rich Dubai Police Department lavish onto their very lucky officers, they go and add another one of our Bucket List dream-rides into their fleet - a
Porsche
 918 Spyder.
Granted, we imagine that only a select few are actually allowed to pilot these very fast and very expensive cars in their garage. There, their new Porsche will join a Bugatti Veyron,
Lamborghini

Aventador
,
Ferrari

FF
,
BMW
 i8,
Mercedes-Benz

SLS AMG
,
Nissan

GT-R
, and
Audi

R8
, among others.
The Dubai police showed off their newest acquisition during the 2015 Dubai Motor Show which was held over last weekend, where it naturally attracted throngs of wide-eyed crowds. In addition to high speed pursuits, a more common occurrence there rather than here, the 918 Spyder will also be deployed in tourist hotspots.
Like all 918 Spyders, it has a naturally aspirated 4.6-litre V8 engine that’s paired with two electric motors (one on each axle) and a 6.8 kWh lithium-ion battery to produce a combined power output of 887hp that permits a 0-100km/h sprint time of just 2.5 seconds and an EPA-claimed range of 680km.
The hybrid supercar is painted in white with green accents - the colour of the local police force - but other than that there doesn’t seem to be any glaring differences. It is missing the standard police roof lights, however, but perhaps they’ll fit it after being on display at the motor show.


Maserati Levante Vulcano Launched – From RM838k, Limited To 10 Units

In celebration of 10 years of Maserati’s official presence here in Malaysia, local distributor Naza Italia has unveiled the limited edition Levante Vulcano. Just 10 units (out of a total 150 units worldwide) of this exclusive SUV will be made available for the Malaysian market.
The Levante Vulcano is powered by the same direct-injected, twin-turbocharged V6 also found in the
Levante S variant
, which delivers 430 hp at 5,750 rpm and 580 Nm at 5,000 rpm. Power is sent to an eight-speed ZF automatic transmission.
On the outside, the exclusive Vulcano is finished in the Matte "Grigio Lava" grey colour, which is further highlighted with the Nerissimo pack which includes: ‘dark look’ rear light clusters, black chrome front grille, gloss black window surrounds, body-coloured door handles, and burnished exhaust tailpipes.
Along the flanks, 21-inch Helios wheels – also with a matte finish – are contrasted by red brake calipers at all four corners. The Vulcano is fitted as standard with 6-piston Brembo brakes at the front.
Inside, the sporty interior is highlighted by Pieno Fiore red leather seats complete with contrasting embroidered Trident logo on the headrest. Other touchpoints of the cabin space – such as the centre console, door trim, paddle shifters, and steering wheel inserts – are meticulously finished in high gloss carbon fibre. To top off the exquisite interior, a chromed aluminium badge just ahead of the gear lever bears the Trident logo, the Vulcano name, and the words "one of 150".
The Vulcano is equipped as standard with a Bowers&Wilkins premium sound system, the soft close door closure system, full-LED Matrix adaptive headlights and the full-suite of Advanced Driving Assistance Systems (ADAS) – featuring Integrated Vehicle Control, Forward Collision Warning, Traffic Sign Recognition, Surround View Camera, Highway Assist System, Lane Keeping Assist, and Active Blind Spot Assist.
The limited edition Levante Vulcano enters the Malaysian market with a starting price of RM838,800 (inclusive of local taxes and duties, sans insurance). The price includes Maserati’s 3-year unlimited mileage warranty plus a 3 year/ 100,000 km maintenance package, whichever comes first.