Geely Becomes Daimler's Largest Shareholder - Future Mercedes-Benz and Geely JV?

Daimler AG has confirmed that the Geely founder and majority owner, Li Shufu, has acquired a 9.69 percent stake (103,619,340 shares) in the company. Daimler reiterates that is pleased to have won an “entrepreneur with a clear vision for the future”, and with whom, Daimler can ”constructively discuss, the changes in the industry”.
Separately,
Reuters reports
, that the stocks, worth some USD 9 Billion, was amassed in an effort to gain access to the electric and autonomous technology of Mercedes-Benz, owned by Daimler. The stock purchase also means that Geely is now the biggest single shareholder in Daimler’s portfolio.
Sources close to Li told Reuters that Geely sees potential in Daimler’s development of high-speed connectivity for autonomous cars, at a time when satellite-based internet connections could become more important.
According to the same report, Li added, “No current car industry player is likely to win this battle against the invaders from outside without friends. To achieve and assert technological leadership, one has to adapt a new way of thinking in terms of sharing and combining strength. My investment in Daimler reflects this vision.”
Geely has confirmed that “there are no plans for the time being”, rather, the investment is the Geely’s way of hedging its bets against new market “invaders”, such as Tesla,
Google
, and
Uber
, who are all actively involved with the development of their own autonomous mobility services and solutions.
Reportedly, Geely had asked Daimler to issue new shares last November, a request that was turned down, on the grounds of diluting existing share values. Subsequently, Geely acquired stocks at prevailing market prices, through a deal engineered by former Morgan Stanley Germany CEO, Dirk Notheis.
In addition to the 9.69 percent stake in Daimler, Geely also owns Volvo Cars, a (USD 3.3 Billion) stake in Volvo Trucks, LEVC (the manufacturer of London’s Black Cabs), a 51 percent stake in Lotus, majority control in flying car start-up Terrafugia, and a
49.9 percent stake in Proton
.
However, perhaps downplaying any hopes of a future tech-JV, and reaffirming its ties with long-time Chinese partner, BAIC Motor, Daimler also stated, “Daimler has got a broad-based portfolio and footprint in China and with BAIC a strong partner on site.”
Through its Beijing Benz Automotive Company (BBAC) joint venture, BAIC Motors has been producing Mercedes-Benz passenger cars since 2006.
In a separate but related development,
Bloomberg reports
, that just a day after the Geely stock announcement, Mercedes-Benz and BAIC announced a plan to build a new factory in China, worth USD 1.9 Billion. However, the location of the factory, and construction timeline were not confirmed.


Renault Malaysia innovating in the time of Coronavirus

New times require new approaches, cue Renault Malaysia who is leading the field in innovating and trying to find new approaches to sell cars. All the information gathered here was shared with automotive journalists through an online media webinar - another first.

Officially known as TC Euro Cars (TCEC) Sdn Bhd, Renault Malaysia is currently offering three hours free driving time of their much-coveted crossover, the Renault Captur - and there will be no babysitter accompanying you either.

We should probably explain that this is part of their proposition to introduce people to their vehicle subscription plan, a first of its kind of vehicle leasing programme from a Malaysian automobile distributor, aptly called Renault Subscription.

Renault Subscription is not a new thing and was actually launched in December 2019. It was the automotive world's answer to Netflix and Spotify. Through a subscription programme, you do not need to worry about a downpayment, no long term commitment, no servicing cost, and no headaches about vehicle depreciation. You could just subscribe and drive.

The most exciting part of it all is that you can subscribe to any of the Renault services through their Renault E-Store, a very forward-thinking approach by Renault which puts you in control of your vehicles needs from the comfort of your home.

According to Wong Hoe Mun, CEO of TC Euro Cars, the journey from test drive to purchase or subscription to ownership can all be done through the E-Store.

"For a start, our free 3-hour no commitment test drive for the Captur is another first in the industry. Customers can easily make arrangements digitally via our partner GoCar. And they can take a pressure-free test drive without a sales consultant, on any route they like, anytime they want.

With the E-Store, we are streamlining to offer a consistent experience while translating the savings back to customers.

To this end, I am happy to announce some online exclusives for customers who want to purchase a Renault in May. Designed to help lighten the load for customers, we are offering rebates worth 6 months of instalment across the board for all Renault models purchased. On top of this - customers will get free 5-year service and trade-in rewards

For Fixed and Switch Subscription, we are also offering a Free 1-month Subscription for customers when they subscribe, and the Pre-Owned Captur Subscription offer continues till 15th May

With the Renault E-Store, we are gradually digitalising every step of the customer's journey: from selecting your car and completing your details, to filling your Hire Purchase requirements and your trade-in information, we are able to support customers every step of the way

As recently announced, we have also extended our concierge service to offer door-to-door delivery. Initially for new and subscribed cars, it is now also available for serviced vehicles. For now, it is free to customers to help limit their exposure to public spaces and provide them some additional relief during this COVID-19 period. This concierge service feature is now available via the E-Store as well. We have a team on stand-by to contact customers within 24 hours after they submit their request to confirm the appointment".

For those who are interested in joining the Renault Subscription crowd, here are some of the updates to the Renault Subscription Plan that might just make you want to be part of the Renault Sub family. It's quite enticing and should really be considered if you are the type of person that doesn't like long term commitment and has the urge to change cars often, even if the models are all Renaults. The Megane sounds spicy, no?

Mobility on the go

TCEC also shared a teaser of what is to come for Renault Subscription customers. The company will be launching a new mobile application through which customers will be able to manage their Subscription vehicle. Key functions will include:

Vehicle Dashboard

Location Tracking

Lock / Unlock

Trip History

Car Sharing

Reminders

Emergency Calls

Bluetooth Connectivity

The launch of this mobile application for Renault Subscription customers is scheduled for June and full functionality will be shared with customers closer to launch timing.

Renault anyone?


Spyshot: Nissan Serena C27 Caught In Malaysia, 1H 2018 Debut

Well look what we have here. After a relatively quiet 2017, it appears that Edaran Tan Chong Motor (ETCM) will have a busier 2018 as the company has confirmed that the all-new Leaf will be launched soon. Additionally, we can also expect the company to introduce the all-new Serena C27.
Thanks to our friends over at
Automachi
, we have a lone spyshot of the upcoming Serena C27 doing some road tests.
From the provided photo, it appears that the pre-production unit has 15-inch alloy wheels all round, similar to the entry-level Serena in Japan. Additionally, this particular unit does not have the dual-tone paint job.
Under the hood, we expect ETCM to continue to offer the identical 2.0-litre MR20 with S-Hybrid petrol engine mated to Nissan’s Xtronic CVT.
ETCM did not specify when the new Serena will debut, though we can expect a debut in the first half of the year.


This Is How The 2017 Toyota Supra Might Look Like

By digitally peeling away the camouflage materials from spyshots that are supposedly referring to the new generation Toyota Supra, the folks at Jalopnik have produced a digital render of what they think the upcoming 2017 Toyota Supra – assuming that Toyota will retain the iconic nameplate - should look like.
Jalopnik
 also adds that a source familiar with the project shared some bits of information, and that apart from details for the headlights and wheels, the render is very close to what the actual production car will look like.
It also adds that the Supra’s front-end design is rather similar to the 2014 Toyota FT-1 Concept car.
As reported earlier, the model is
co-developed with BMW
, with BMW’s version, possibly called a BMW Z5, using a roadster bodytype while Toyota’s version will be a hard-top coupe.
Disguised prototypes of the same car have also been spotted outside BMW’s headquarters in Munich.
Rumour has it that the next generation Toyota Supra/BMW Z5 twins will be unveiled in November at the coming Los Angeles Auto Show.


Announcing The Winners Of The 2015 World Car Awards

The winners of the 2015 World Car Awards have been announced at this year’s New York International Auto Show and it was Mercedes-Benz that walked away with glee by snapping up three awards that included the much coveted World Car of the Year award.
It was the
Mercedes-Benz
 C-Class that was named as the 2015 World Car of the Year, beating out two other finalists, the Ford Mustang and the
Volkswagen
 Passat. Jurors for the World Car Awards observed that, “Taking its design and technological cues from the S-Class, the C-Class employs an all-new aluminium/steel hybrid platform and updated rear-drive powertrains that delivers levels of refinement, luxury, safety, ride and handling that challenge best-in-class.”
Moving on to the 2015 World Luxury Car Award, the Stuttgart-based company managed to retain the title with its Mercedes-Benz S Coupé that edged out two other finalists in its category, the
BMW
 i8 and Range Rover Autobiography Black LWB. When you have two sound systems by Burmester inside your vehicle and an interior that looks like this, would you have second guessed the winner?
Next up was the 2015 World Performance Car Award that saw the BMW M4 Coupe/M3 Sedan, Jaguar F-Type R Coupe, and the Mercedes-AMG GT. This was the third award that Mercedes-Benz walked away with as the GT came out on top, ending Porsche’s three-year winning streak stretching back to 2012. Jurors noted, “Its on-road presence alone is almost enough to qualify it as a ‘Top 3’ finalist. But in addition to its ruggedly handsome looks it has an impressive spec sheet comprising biturbo 4.0-litre V8 engine, seven speed dual-clutch transmission,  456bhp (minimum)...and much, much more.”
For the 2015 World Car Design of the Year, five world design experts would review a list of candidates and narrow it down to just three finalists for the jurors to decide upon. The winner was the Citroen C4 Cactus with its unique Airbump panels that protect the car from everyday bumps and scrapes. Each Airbump panel is made from supply thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) and includes tiny air capsules that absorb impacts and do not require any maintenance. Sounds like the perfect car for our country then.
Lastly, we have the 2015 World Green Car Award. You would think it would be the Volkswagen Golf GTE or any of the new diesel-hybrid vehicles that have been released. Think again because it was BMW with their i8 that took home the prize after the i3 had won it the year before. The plug-in hybrid eDrive powertrain with a 131hp electric motor driving the front axle and a 231hp TwinPwer 1.5-litre three-cylinder turbo petrol engine driving the rear permits a fuel consumption figure of just 2.1 litres/100km while achieving a century sprint time of just 4.4 seconds. The best of both worlds.
The World Car Awards consists of an international jury that is comprised of 75 top-level automotive journalist from 22 countries around the world selects and votes on each category. Vehicles that are eligible for the overall 2015 World Car award must become available for sale on at least two continents during the period from 1
st
 January 2014 till 31
st
 May 2015.
The full list of finalists in each category are as listed below:
2015 World Car of the Year
BMW 2 Series Active Tourer
Citroën C4 Cactus
Ford Mustang
Hyundai Genesis
Jeep Renegade
Mazda2
Mercedes-Benz C-Class
MINI 5 door / MINI 4 door Hard Top
Nissan Qashqai
Volkswagen Passat
2015 World Luxury Car
BMW i8
BMW X6
Cadillac ATS Coupe
Cadillac Escalade/ESV
Kia K900
Lexus NX
Lexus RC
Lincoln MKC
Mercedes-Benz S Coupe
Range Rover Autobiography Black LWB
2015 World Performance Car
Audi S1
Audi S3
Audi TT / TTS
Bentley Continental GT Speed
BMWM4 Coupe/M3 Sedan
Corvette Z06
Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat
Jaguar F-TYPE R Coupe
Lexus RC-F
Mercedes-Benz AMG GT
2015 World Car Design
BMW 2 Series Active Tourer
Citroën C4 Cactus
Mercedes C-Class
Porsche Macan
Volvo XC90
2015 World Green Car
BMW i8
Hyundai ix35/Tucson Fuel Cell
Kia Soul EV
Volvo XC90 T8 Twin Engine
Volkswagen Golf GTE


Panduan Bagi Yang Kurang Akal: Fungsi Sebenar Lampu Kabus Kereta

Tahukah anda fungsi sebenar lampu kabus kenderaan anda dan bilakah masa sesuai untuk menggunakannya?

Baru-baru ini, penulis ada berkongsi tentang
bahaya lampu silau kenderaan
 yang mengakibatkan buta sebentar dan kebanyakan komen menyentuh tentang lampu kabus atau fog lamp yang turut mengundang sumpah seranah pengguna jalan raya. Kenapa?

Terdapat segelintir pemandu yang
memasang lampu kabus ketika waktu malam
 dan mengundang silau keterlaluan kepada pemandu lain di belakang kenderaan tersebut.

Pelbagai alasan yang diberi, ada yang ‘bodoh sombong’ mengatakan lampu kabus memang dipasang pada waktu malam supaya kereta lain tidak menyondol keretanya. Ada juga berpendapat lampu kabus seperti lampu ekstra untuk penggunaan waktu malam, jadi buat apa ada lampu kabus kalau tak dipasang kan?

Kenapa kereta ada lampu kabus?

Untuk pengetahuan anda, lampu kabus adalah komponen yang wajib dipasang pada kereta untuk melepasi ujian Kelulusan Jenis Kenderaan (VTA) yang dilakukan pasukan Bahagian Kejuruteraan Automotif di
Jabatan Pengangkutan Jalan (JPJ)
, sebelum layak dijual di Malaysia.

Syarat lampu kabus depan dan belakang sudah diwartakan dan dilaksanakan sejak 1 Januari 2015 di bawah peraturan R19 dan R38 dalam senarai 100 Peraturan UN (Pertubuhan Bangsa-Bangsa Bersatu). Ini ditulis dalam Garis Panduan Kelulusan Jenis Kenderaan (Pindaan) 2017.

Lampu kabus adalah salah satu spesifikasi wajib bagi kenderaan di negara-negara Eropah. Keadaan cuaca berkabus ketika musim sejuk atau melalui kawasan pergunungan di sana memerlukan pemandu memasang lampu kabus depan dan belakang bagi memastikan kenderaan mereka dapat dilihat oleh kenderaan lain.

Justeru, kebanyakan pengeluar kenderaan di Malaysia memilih untuk tidak mengubah spesifikasi asal, selaras peraturan spesifikasi lampu seperti ditetapkan piawaian Kesatuan Eropah (EU) yang turut dilaksanakan di negara kita.

Waktu sesuai memasang lampu kabus

Di Malaysia, kondisi jalan tidak baik seperti hujan lebat, kabus tebal, keadaan berasap seperti debu atau jerebu dan seumpamanya, pemandu seharusnya menyalakan lampu kabus depan dan belakang.

Namun bagitu, ketika hujan lebat, anda tidak perlu membuka lampu kabus melainkan jarak penglihatan menjadi terlalu terhad sehingga kurang dari 400 meter atau tiga tiang lampu jalan raya, menurut Institut Penyelidikan Keselamatan Jalan Raya Malaysia (
MIROS
).

Sebaliknya, apa yang kerap dilakukan pemandu Malaysia, ramai pula yang menyalakan signal kecemasan!

Signal kecemasan atau hazard light
 sepatutnya digunakan ketika waktu kecemasan untuk memberi isyarat bahawa kenderaan yang dipandu sedang menghadapi masalah dan pemandu perlu memperlahankan kenderaan sebelum berhenti di tepi jalan.

Pendek kata, jika anda sedang memandu dan menempuh hujan lebat sehingga tidak nampak jalan di hadapan anda, juga kelajuan kenderaan telah berkurang sehingga 40 km/j, anda seharusnya memasang lampu kabus depan dan belakang, bukannya hazard light!

Lampu kabus
tidak boleh dipasang selain daripada situasi di atas
, kerana anda mungkin berdepan saman jika menyalahguna lampu kabus kenderaan.

Penyalahgunaan lampu kabus

Sakit hati dengan pemandu yang menyalahguna fungsi lampu kabus kereta? Anda boleh buat aduan secara rasmi ke
aduantrafik@jpj.gov.my
.

Penyalahgunaan lampu kabus boleh menerima hukuman melalui Seksyen 119 Akta Pengangkutan Jalan 1987, dimana anda boleh didenda sebanyak RM2,000 atau dipenjara tidak lebih enam bulan.

Sebarkan fungsi sebenar lampu kabus kepada mereka yang ‘bodoh sombong’ di sekeliling anda supaya kita semua menjadi pengguna jalan raya yang bijak, okay!


Suzuki Unveils The iM-4 Concept At Geneva, Hints At New Jimny

Suzuki
 didn’t just
release one new concept
 at the 2015 Geneva Motor Show. As
previously reported
, the other would be a 4x4 vehicle. This is it, the Suzuki iM-4 and it resembles the modern interpretation of what could be the next
Suzuki Jimny
.
For a bit of history, the Suzuki LJ (Light Jeep) series was introduced in 1970. Called the Light Jeep 10, it was the first Suzuki-branded four-wheel drive. From then, it has evolved into what we know as the Suzuki Jimny that is available here.
The iM-4 draws on that heritage and reimagines it in the shape of this concept. The relatively boxy design features plain surfaces with very subtle flared wheel arches that make room for the large-diameter 215/45R18 tyres wrapped around 18-inch wheels. The rectangular motif can be seen on the front and rear lower grilles, door mirrors and handles, and rear combination lamps.
The front fascia comprises of a meshed large grille covering the front end of the vehicle, accommodating the also rectangular headlamps. Other details include blacked-out A- and B-pillars, clamshell bonnet and front fender garnishing.
Beneath the panels lies a new-generation platform from Suzuki, designed for increased rigidity while being lighter. The company say this helps improves fuel efficiency, safety, handling, stability, and NVH performance. When comparing the iM-4’s dimensions to the current Jimny, the overall length (3,693 mm) is only 2 mm longer. However, the concept has a longer wheelbase (2,438 mm vs 2,250 mm) and is noticeably wider by 109 mm (1,709 mm).
Powering the concept is a mild hybrid system with a 1.2-litre DUALJET engine paired to what the company called SVHS (Smart Hybrid Vehicle by Suzuki). The system incorporates an integrated starter generator that provides engine power assistance using the motor and features power regeneration in the form of its regenerative braking system to charge the lithium-ion batteries.


New Mission Impossible Rogue Nation Trailer Teases More High-Speed Action

A new trailer has been released for the newest Mission Impossible film. Called Rogue Nation, the movie brings back Ethan Hunt and team to save the world again while dodging bullets and chasing baddies in cars. Speaking of which, we see more of the headlining
BMW

M3
 car chase too.
It’s pretty amazing how we’re already nearly reaching the premiere of Mission Impossible: Rogue Nation – the fifth instalment in the series. It’s a fun spy series that can hold its own in world of Bonds and Bournes.
Back onto that M3 chase, we’re shown more of it this time. If you’ve watched the
previous trailer
, we see the car driven by the protagonist, being chased through a narrow middle-eastern city streets by a band of armed motorcyclists.
Some trick driving ensues to level the playing field and at some point the car jumps off a makeshift ramp while in reverse. BMW seems to be in the movie producer’s good books, as even in the previous entrant, 2011’s Ghost Protocol, the main chase scene involved two BMWs and even a BMW Vision Efficient Dynamics concept,
precursor to the
i8
 hybrid sportscar,
 had its time to shine.
Back to Rogue Nation, some other wheeled in action involves more bikes involved in a highway chase, bringing back some memories of the John Woo-directed Mission Impossible II. The chase
 ends in a fireball down a cliff, so that's bound to be fun.
Alec Baldwin’s brooding political-type character says in the trailer “You and your team will answer for every wanton act of mayhem you are responsible for.”
He’ll have some counting to do, then.


Toyota Builds A Japanese Nurburgring-Style Test Track To Better Develop Cars

Akio Toyoda is a man of eclectic taste, possessing a broad understanding of both the business and engineering aspects of being in the car business. On the one hand, we see him signing off on
selling hybrid and electric vehicle technology
 to other manufacturers (in order to leverage their green credits), but on the other we also see him doing things like this. The official name for the facility in question is Toyota Technical Centre Shimoyama, located right in the middle of Toyota City and Okazaki.
The terrain happens to be mountainous. Perhaps in a different time, it was a route for budding tofu delivery boys. Now, however, it happens to be the home to one of multiple test tracks for Toyota, and the first to be built is a 5.3-kilometre, Nurburgring Nordschleife style circuit. There's 75 metres of elevation change between the highest and lowest points; for reference, Laguna Seca with its infamous corkscrew sees only 55 metres of elevation change between its highest and lowest points.
This circuit is but the central section of what is intended to be a much larger facility. By 2023, with a total build up cost of 300 billion Yen (RM 11 billion), there should be an additional high speed test course to the east and a variety of different surface testing courses to replicate conditions in other countries. 3,300 people will be employed on the site, which will span a total of 650.8 hectares, or 6.5 square kilometres. In true ecological fashion for Toyota, over 50% of the greenery in the are has been preserved.
Commemorating the completion of the new facility, Toyota President Akio Toyoda made the following statement: "I would like to express my sincere gratitude to Aichi Prefecture, Toyota City, Okazaki City and, above all, to the local residents of Shimoyama for their invaluable assistance, consideration, and cooperation over a long period of time from the concept stage to the building of Toyota Technical Center Shimoyama. With the aim of making ever-better cars, we have continued to make various efforts in "feeling the road" and "conversing with cars" through driving tests around the world, including our Five Continent Drive Project and the Nürburgring 24 Hours endurance race. Based on such experiences, we have replicated a variety of roads in the world at the new test course. In addition to conducting driving tests all over the world, and with the replication of severe driving conditions at the new test course, we intend to thoroughly hone every one of our models and develop the types of cars that epitomize the true joy of driving."
It's an admirable project, although judging by the photos and videos it's not exactly a course you want to be running absolutely flat out. The lack of sightlines and runoff can mean that any kind of spirited driving may prove treacherous, although the road curves and cambers should give engineers enough feedback to understand and further hone the abilities of the cars that they are developing. Located just 30 minutes away from Toyota Motor Corporation's headquarters, you can be that Akio Toyoda will be spending some time there too.


Volkswagen Golf TSI BlueMotion Revealed: 1.0-Litre Engine Consumes Just 4.3 Litres Per 100KM!

The German car maker recently unveiled the
Volkswagen Golf
 TSI BlueMotion which is claimed to be as fuel efficient as a diesel engine car, managing a fuel economy figure of 4.3 litres/100km. It is also the first Golf BlueMotion with a petrol engine, which was previously only available in diesel (TDI) and natural gas (TGI) versions.
To live up to those claims, an EA211 1.0-litre three-cylinder turbocharged TSI engine resides under the hood paired to either a standard six-speed manual gearbox or an optional seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox. Power output stands at 115PS and 200Nm of torque, with
Volkswagen
 claiming the latter to be the highest specific torque of any large-scale production series of petrol engines (200 Nm per litre).
Regardless of the drivetrain combination selected, the Golf TSI BlueMotion will still achieve the claimed fuel economy figure while emitting just 99 gram/km of CO2. A drag coefficient (Cd) value of just 0.28 also helps in the effort to reduce fuel consumption. On a side note, if you’re interested in its performance figures, the eco Golf will hit a top speed of 204 km/h.
The TSI BlueMotion variant is also extended to two other
Golf
 body styles, the Estate and Sportsvan albeit with slightly differing fuel economy figures. On the manual gearbox Golf Estate, an average of 4.3l/100km is attainable (4.5l/100km with the DSG), while the Golf Sportsvan in manual guise average 4.5l/100km and 4.6l/100km when fitted with a DSG.
Two levels of trim will be offered – Trendline and Comfortline with the former having a starting price of 20,450 euros (RM83,779) which makes it the cheapest Golf BlueMotion. Standard exterior features of the Golf TSI BlueMotion Trendline include 15-inch “Lyon” alloy wheels, XDS+ electronic differential lock, Automatic Post-Collision Braking System. Move up to the Comfortline and additional features include a ParkPilot system, a more exclusive instrument cluster, leather-trimmed steering wheel and gear knob, and 16-inch “Dover” alloy wheels.


The All-New 2022 Honda City Hatchback Is Now Open For Booking!

It seems that the 2022 Honda City Hatchback train is steaming full speed ahead as Honda has just announced that the highly anticipated sporty and stylish All-New City Hatchback is now open for bookings at all Honda dealerships nationwide.

According to Honda Malaysia, the hatchback is "A Step Above" in its segment, combining cutting-edge styling with a sporty feel and trendsetting advanced features. It is touted for a local
launch
 in Q4 2021.

The All-New 2022 City Hatchback will be offered in two powertrains – e:HEV and Petrol. The
RS e:HEV
 features Honda's unique i-MMD hybrid system, powered by 1.5L Sports intelligent Multi-Mode Drive (i-MMD) and two electric motors for effortless drivability and efficiency.

Working hand in hand seamlessly, this advanced powertrain delivers 109PS and a segment revolutionary 253Nm torque, equivalent to a D-segment engine's torque performance figure according to Honda.

Meanwhile, the
City Hatchback Petrol
 is equipped with a 1.5L DOHC i-VTEC powertrain producing the "highest in class performance" figures of 121PS and a maximum torque of 145Nm. Honda says the ICE variant offers an ideal balance of exciting performance and fuel efficiency for a hatchback body type.

Exterior wise, the All-New 2022 City Hatchback RS e:HEV sports a high-gloss piano black front grille, black solid wing and gloss black door mirrors, for a two-toned colour expression. It will also feature RS exclusive parts in the lower grille, fog garnish and rear bumper. The rear bumper is designed explicitly for a hatchback shape and is equipped with a sophisticated diffuser, making the rear look sporty and fashionable.

The exterior of RS e:HEV and V variants will receive LED headlights with LED Daytime Running Lights (DRL), LED front fog lights, LED rear combi lights and 16-inch alloy wheels that complement the appearance of the car.

As we all predicted, the 2022 City Hatchback will come with the much-coveted
Honda Jazz
 seating arrangement called the 4-Modes ULTRA Seats. This practical and versatile feature allows the rear seats to be folded flat or flipped up in four configuration modes, Utility, Long, Tall and Refresh, to suit different storage space needs by maximizing the rear space creatively.

Another welcoming feature that will be well received is the Remote Engine Start (RS e:HEV & V), which provides added convenience, enabling the driver to activate the engine and air-conditioning before entering the car.

In addition, the Electric Parking Brake (EPB) feature that enables the driver to activate and deactivate the parking brake with a lift and push of a button is exclusively available in the RS e:HEV, all variants will get rear air conditioning "ventilation", which provides added comfort for rear seat passengers.

Another first in segment feature that the 2022 City Hatchback will come with is Honda's most complete package of Next-Generation Advanced Safety Technology –
Honda SENSING
.

Honda SENSING utilizes a front wide-view camera to help drivers recognize road boundaries during day and night driving conditions. The Honda SENSING driver assistance safety systems in the All-New City Hatchback RS e:HEV include:

Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)

Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS)

Forward Collision Warning (FCW)

Lane Keep Assist System (LKAS)

Road Departure Mitigation (RDM)

Lane Departure Warning (LDW)

Auto High Beam (AHB)

An additional segment-first safety feature in the City Hatchback is Honda LaneWatch (RS e:HEV & V). This camera-based advanced safety technology reduces blind spots by providing real-time visuals in the infotainment system when the left turn signal is activated, or LaneWatch button is pressed.

For more information or to place a booking for the All-New 2022 Honda City Hatchback, customers can visit Honda authorized dealerships nationwide or call Honda Malaysia's Toll-Free number at 1-800-88-2020 or log onto www.honda.com.my or download the HondaTouch application.


Do Electronic Driver Aids Help Or Hurt?

If we look at the vast majority of cases, then the data shows wholeheartedly that electronic driver aids do help save lives, either through avoiding accidents entirely or by mitigating damage. Electronic driving aids have evolved and grown in number and availability, coming in everything from a Perodua Bezza to a Rolls-Royce Dawn.

As a short history lesson, electronic driver aids were initially designed to keep the driver in control of the car. Whether that was anti-lock braking systems (ABS) which allows you to steer even under hard braking, or traction control (TCS) which helped to reduce wheel-spin so a driver could maintain traction in slippery situations, the idea was the driver still had to be in control of the car.

Over time, systems grew more complex to include mainstays such as vehicle stability control (VSC) to keep the car from losing grip or spinning out of control, and more niche items such as lane keep assist (LKA) which will alert the driver if they wander into another lane. The spectrum is vast and varied, all with the intention of keeping you safe.

That being said, a number of problems have started to emerge as a result of all this and unfortunately it has resulted in an even stronger push to take control away from drivers as a whole and move towards entirely autonomous cars – especially as more and more people have no interest in driving themselves with each passing generation. Let’s take a look at how we got here.

A False Sense Of Security

We’re not saying that these systems don’t work, but there is a growing number of drivers who have become reliant on the various aids that come with their car – and they don’t even know it. Autonomous braking, lane keep assist, and even traction control are sometimes made to work overtime just to keep a driver on the road – and they may not even know it given how smooth these systems operate.

In many cases it’s not as though these drivers are intentionally driving aggressively or erratically, but rather they just aren’t aware of how much mass they are controlling or how little available grip there is, or just not being aware of their surroundings. This is more of an education and experience problem, which we talked about in
an earlier piece
.

A Lack Of Appreciation

We are finally at a point where almost every car you could possibly buy comes equipped with VSC, at the very least. What this means is that if you’re fortunate enough to start your driving career with a new car, you probably won’t ever experience what Malaysians affectionately call the “buang”, or “oversteer” as the rest of the world calls it. It’s how you end up spinning your car, but the job of VSC is to stop you from reaching this point and it usually steps in the moment you experience even the slightest amount of oversteer.

Now, for some drivers they take it to mean that they are nearly invincible on the road and they try to do some pretty impossible things with their cars. Among the more spirited drivers there will often be complaints of rear brake pads burning up or overheating, especially when on Sepang – that’s basically your VSC working overtime to stop you from crashing. Make no mistake – without these systems, you would have put your car into a wall a long time ago. Which brings us to our third point…

A Limit To Everything

As great and helpful as these systems are, they still are very much limited by the laws of physics and the condition of your car. The likelihood of a sensor failing exactly when you need the system to work is very low, but the likelihood of a Malaysian wearing their tyre down to the wire is high – and at that point, no driver aid is going to be able to save you, regardless of how advanced or expensive it is.

Similarly, the conditions we drive in can make it a challenge for these systems to offer the right amount of assistance at the right time. When the roads are flooded with enough water to cause aquaplaning, again it is beyond the scope of what a system can do to save you. When the radar systems are obstructed by rain or mist, you lose your autonomous braking functionality.

And Yet, We Support Them.

With all of this in mind, you would think that we hate these systems – but in actuality they still have far greater value in a greater number of scenarios. These are the outlier cases, the statistical anomalies that should not be considered as part of the whole. While we believe it is important to know how to drive and handle a car without any of these aids to help, we also would want our loved ones in a car that has these aids just in case they have a lapse of judgement or focus.


BMW Group Prepares Dingolfing Plant for G30 Production, Magna Steyr to Supplement Production

BMW Group has announced that the new BMW G30 5 Series will be manufactured and assembled in its Dingolfing plant in Lower Bavaria as the lead plant for its international production network. The last few months has seen an extensive retooling and refurbishment operation costing several hundred million Euros, but also including a new body shop to the west of the plant and a restructuring of the drivetrain unit installation on the production line.
The Dingolfing plant is known to produce the 7 Series and 6 Series, making it the upper class production centre for BMW products. Given that the G30 5 Series is based off of the CLAR architecture, it makes sense to manufacture it in the same plant as the 7 Series for simplicity of production. More importantly, to supplement production in anticipation of high demand, BMW has contracted Magna Steyr to produce G30 units at their plant in Graz.
As a plant, Dingolfing is highly competitive- opting to take on production of the 3 Series and 4 Series as well. “The decision to build 3 Series and 4 Series variants here proves that we are competitive and makes us less dependent on the lifecycle of our large model series,” explains Dingolfing Plant Manager Josef Kerscher. However, this also means that the plant cannot handle G30 5 Series production alone, hence the need for Magna Steyr. Over 347,000 units of the 5 Series were sold last year, and total production output of the Dingolfing plant is roughly 350,000 units a year, across all models.
The G30 5 Series is not the first model to be produced by Magna Steyr: they have also produced the BMW X3 between 2003 and 2010, as well as the MINI Countryman and Paceman models. BMW Group's ties with Magna Steyr and their trust in partnership is what led them to this agreement, and Magna Steyr will begin production of the G30 5 Series in early 2017.


The Mercedes-AMG GT C is For Those Who Are Born to Be Wild

In their latest TV Spot in the US, Mercedes-Benz has decided to pay homage to the 'Easy Rider' film of 1969. In this modern day adaptation, the chopper is substituted for the Mercedes-AMG GT C Roadster, which is probably as close as you can get to the experience of riding a motorcycle without actually riding a motorcycle.
The spot stars Peter Fonda, who played the main character in the original films, as well as the iconic 'Born to Be Wild' song by Steppenwolf. This year also marks the 50th anniversary of Mercedes-AMG, and this new GT C is a very different direction on the GT model from the GT R.
While the car would make the ideal roadtrip machine, there's more to it than open road cruising. It still packs the potent turbocharged 4.0-litre V8 and a number of other features that fans of the brand have become accustomed to.


Post-GST Carmaker Price List Roundup: What Went Up Or Down?

As many of you are aware, the implementation of the Goods and Services Tax took place on on April 1
st
, 2015, which saw many carmakers introduce new prices for their vehicles. Some models would cost more while others saw a drop in prices as well.
Now going through the dozen or so individual post-GST articles can take up a bit of your time, which is why to help you make an informed decision when buying a new car, we’ve compiled all of our post-GST pricing-related articles into this handy roundup. So, without further ado, click away:
Audi
BMW
Honda
Kia
Lexus
Mazda
Mercedes-Benz
MINI
Mitsubishi
Nissan
Perodua
Proton
Subaru
Toyota

Volvo

We’ll continue to update this article as new information comes in so please stay tuned.


Special Low Interest Promotion For Volkswagen Vento And Passat

Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM) has introduced a special low interest rate promotion for the the Vento Trendline, Comfortline and Allstar, as well as the Passat Trendline and Comfortline.
The promotion, which will go on till 30 September 2017, is applicable for hire purchase loans with the durations of five to nine years, and starts from as low as 0.28% for the Vento variants and 0.88% for the Passat variants.
According to the Managing Director of VPCM, Erik Winter, the promotion is part of VPCM’s efforts in addressing the current needs of consumers. “We are always looking at ways to offer the best options for Malaysians – and we believe that this combination of very attractive financing, free maintenance, and German engineering at its best will provide our consumers with true peace of mind.”
The low interest rates according to loan tenure is as below:
The Vento Trendline, Comfortline and Allstar come with a naturally aspirated 1.6L engine that produces 105PS and 153 Nm, paired to a 6-speed automatic gearbox.
The Passat Comfortline and Trendline on the other hand, are each powered by a 1.8L turbocharged TSI engine with a 7-speed automatic direct shift gearbox (DSG), giving out 180PS and 250Nm.
The models mentioned also come with a 5-year free maintenance offer, which is valid till 30
th
 September 2017.


Electric Car Factory To Open In 2016, Setting Up Malaysia As Regional EV Hub

A new electric vehicle production facility due to be built in Gurun, Kedah is set to place Malaysia in a prime position to become a regional hub for electric vehicles once it starts its operational duties in the middle of 2016.
The venture is the result of a joint effort by the Beijing Auto International Cooperation (BAIC) - the world’s second largest electric vehicle manufacturer and the biggest in China - and their local Malaysian partner company Amber Dual Sdn Bhd.
At a cost of between RM200 million to RM300 million, BAIC projects that the Gurun facility would be able to produce between 2,000 to 3,000 electric vehicles in 2016, a figure that will increase as time goes by and demand increases according to market maturity.
Shabudin Md Saman, Amber Dual’s managing director plans to have a prototype vehicle ready by December, with a full production version ready in July 2016.
"BAIC has appointed us as its representative that tap into the markets in Southeast Asian and the region. Government help is also needed as electric vehicle technology requires high financing, especially in installing vehicle battery-charging facilities,” he said.
In addition to aiding BAIC in achieving market success in this region, Amber Dual Sdn Bhd intends on learning fast and eventually contributing to future vehicle design as well as developing their own battery technology.
Li Ji, BAIC’s senior vice-president of sales, is bullish of the prospect of Malaysia becoming an important support structure in the company’s growth as well as its future as an electric vehicle hub for Southeast Asia.


Nissan Kicks Could've Dominated Our Compact SUV Market. Is It Too Late Now?

The Honda HR-V has been left unapposed so far, but Nissan could've stepped in. Now the Kicks is in Thailand, but the X50 and Perodua D55L pose new threats.

There has to be a plan for it to join the Malaysian line-up too, right? In the face of how the popularity of SUVs, large and small, seem to be on an ever-increasing upward trend, why isn’t Nissan and Edaran Tan Chong Motor focusing their efforts around their global strong sellers like the Kicks and, better yet, the Qashqai?

Up to this point, Malaysians have had their cravings for a small SUV (or crossover, whatever) met by the Honda HR-V, which has proved to be a very strong seller for that particular Japanese brand. Nissan does offer a segment competitor in overseas markets, and in many of them they’ve been the top selling models in their class.

Now with local automakers preparing for their assault with the Proton X50 and Perodua D55L, the market is only going to get much more competitive. The lure of the compact SUV market is almost too strong to ignore, and there’s a lot of money to be made for the ones who can offer a compelling product. So why is Nissan so far unwilling to take a sweet slice for themselves?

Nissan have only recently launched the 2020 version of the
Kicks in Thailand
, bringing an updated design and an innovative e-Power hybrid powertrain. Inside, the car does exhibit a cabin that looks much more upmarket than what we’ve been used to seeing with a Nissan badge, especially at the lower end. It’s also got more exterior and interior appeal than its sister car, the Renault Captur.

If the Captur is TC Euro Car’s most popular model, shouldn’t the added brand credibility associated by Malaysian buyers to the Nissan badge translate to the Kicks also being met very positively? At least, more so than the Renault product. The fact that the Thai market now has the Kicks in their arsenal is even more reason for a Malaysian introduction to be expedited.

Both the Qashqai and the smaller Kicks appeal to the same kind of buyer, more or less. Both are five-door crossovers with seat to fit five occupants in comfort. For the more style-conscious urban dweller, the Kicks seems to have all the boxes ticked. However, those needing more space would likely opt for the Qashqai. For many, it hits a very comfortable sweet spot.

Speaking of Proton and Perodua, now that the local juggernauts have caught the scent, perhaps it is too late for the Kicks to flourish? Even if it was launched tomorrow, that would leave only a few months at the most before Proton or Perodua might announce their all-new rival. Even now, people are
willing to put money down
 on a Proton X50 despite the car not being officially announced or confirmed, let alone seen in its entirety.

Had Nissan populated their local line-up with more models that have a broader appeal based on their popularity abroad, the brand could have a much stronger foothold on the SUV/crossover segment as well as a potentially large chunk of annual sales across all makes sold here.

The X-Trail would be supplemented by one or maybe two little siblings, making for a solid offering that’s both attractive and accessible to a wide swath of car-buying Malaysians. Better still, assuming Nissan was the first to introduce the compact crossover locally, it would stand them in good stead against any assault later mounted by Honda, Toyota, or even Proton and Perodua thanks to a large and possibly loyal base of customers.

We can’t wind back the clock, but we could make some projections as to how well the 2020 Kicks would stack up against the Proton X50. For it to even earn the right to compete, however, the Nissan would need to be locally assembled and priced well right from the start.

The X50 should be powered by a 1.5-litre three-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine with quite a lot of grunt relative to its size. The Kicks, on the other hand, has largely been sold with either a naturally aspirated 1.5 or 1.6-litre petrol engine in its primary regions of China and India. However, the newly introduced e-Power hybrid could potentially alter the odds back in Nissan’s favour.

Instead of a petrol engine powering the driven wheels, the e-Power system uses the 1.2-litre (79PS, 103Nm) combustion motor solely as a generator to charge up the 1.57kWh battery, which is used as a power reservoir for the EM57 electric motor that actually provides motion.

This system eliminates the need for a large battery as well as a conventional transmission. The electric motor, rated at 129PS and 260Nm, also provides ample surge, especially from standstill. Used in city driving, the e-Power system is also more efficient with fuel and emissions compared to a conventional combustion powertrain. It goes without saying that this is what we want for the Malaysian version too, should the Kicks ever arrive.

Besides that, there really isn’t all that much that the Kicks would be lacking next to the X50 or the venerable HR-V. In its generous Thai market spec, the crossover is fully loaded (in range-topping VL trim) with a two-tone exterior, 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, 6 airbags, automatic headlights, Intelligent All-Round View Monitor, Intelligent Cruise Control, Intelligent Emergency Braking, Forward Collision Alert, and Rear Cross Traffic Alert.

Like I said, the Nissan Kicks can come in very well equipped. And in its 2020 guise, it has the looks and plush interior to match its cutting edge drive system. The question now is not whether ETCM should put it in Malaysian showrooms as soon as possible (provided it’s also locally assembled), but how effectively the model is able to catch up to other Japanese rivals while keeping the newer invaders from Proton and Perodua at bay.

It won’t be easy, of course, the Honda HR-V in particular has dominated the space ever since it was introduced and has used that time to build a fortress of market share. For what it’s worth, Nissan still needs to attempt a siege.


Mitsubishi Raya Promotion Offering Cash Rebates Up To RM 6,000

Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia (MMM) announced that it is offering attractive promotions for the upcoming Raya festivities.
The “Mitsubishi Motors Raya” promotion, which is valid from today until 31 May 2019, is offering customers who book and register a new Outlander 2.0-litre (RM 137,888) or 2.4-litre (RM 152,888), with cash rebates up to RM 4,000.
Besides the Outlander, the company is also offering the ASX and Triton with cash rebates. While the ASX 4WD (RM 133,336) and ASX 2WD (RM 118,866) are entitled to cash rebates of up to RM 4,000, the Triton comes with cash rebates up to RM 6,000 depending on variant:
In addition to the cash rebates, customers who service their cars at any authorized Mitsubishi service centre from 2nd May to 15th June are entitled for exclusive Raya festive gifts below:
Customers can also get an additional RM20.00 eVoucher (valid for next service) when they service their vehicle and recommend a friend to test drive any Mitsubishi vehicle during the Hari Raya service campaign month.
Click
here
 to get the best deals for Mitsubishi models.


Bateriku.com’s Motor Maniac 2019 Brings Petrolheads Together Even In The Rain

In an effort to bring car enthusiasts together as well as to promote their brand, products, and services among petrol-heads, mobile battery replacement service providers Bateriku.com recently organised a car meet at the Glenmarie LRT Station in Shah Alam.

Called “Motor Maniac 2019”, the event, which was organised by Bateriku in partnership with Carlist.my, OZ Racings, as well as Haus Boom, took place on the 14th of December from 10am to 7pm.

Despite the day-long rain, the event saw overwhelming response from various car clubs, as well as individuals who wanted to come and boast their rides and check out some of the coolest cars in the country.

Throughout the day, nothing less than a few hundred cars graced the event, ranging from classic and new American cars, old and new German cars, as well as a mile-long list of JDM awesomeness from the 1970s right down to current machines.

But that was not all! There were also a huge number of Malaysian cars present at the event, representing various clubs and groups.

That being said, check out the gallery below to see some of the scenes at Motor Maniac 2019:


Drink Driving Lowest Cause Of Fatal Accidents In Malaysia Over Last 10 Years

Drink driving (and driving under the influence of drugs) seems to be the
lowest cause of fatal crashes
 in the past 10 years in Malaysia. Yeah, we didn’t believe it at first either.

Only 69 fatal accidents due to drunk driving?

Between July 2011 and 2021, a PDRM statistical report shows that only 69 cases of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs have been categorised as the cause of fatal accidents in Malaysia.

Of course, any life needlessly lost is a tragedy but that figure is apparently the lowest cause of death out of the thousands of road fatalities reported over the past decade.

Single vehicle crashes - 19,570 deaths

At the other end of the spectrum, ‘single vehicle’ crashes topped the list of the highest contributor to fatal accidents, which is characterised by the involvement of just one car, lorry, or motorcycle. Over the same period, it was attributed to 19,570 deaths.

Other causes of fatal accidents in Malaysia?

In the runner-up position, the report shows negligent driving while exiting or coming into a junction as the second-highest cause with 6,590 deaths. It’s also worth noting that a total of 1,990 reported roadside casualties were the result of pedestrian negligence.

Other causes of fatalities include accidents as a result:

overtaking (6,560),

collisions due to not noticing a head-on obstruction (6,336),

accidents while making a U-turn (2,570),

driving against the flow of traffic
 (1,731),

beating or attempting to beat a traffic light (1,398),

falling asleep at the wheel (1,305).

This is a pretty fascinating statistic. However, does it speak to
successful enforcement
 that has managed to curb incidents of driving under the influence? Or might this imply that driving while intoxicated (albeit lightly) is less of an inhibiting factor than previously thought since Malaysians are apparently more dangerous on the roads while sober.


Frankfurt 2017: Kia Picanto X-Line Details Revealed

Slated to make its public debut at the upcoming IAA Frankfurt Motor Show next week, Kia has revealed the all-new crossover-inspired Picanto X-Line.
Featuring an exterior design that is inspired by the Sportage and Sorento SUVs, the new, more rugged version of the Picanto comes with 156mm ground clearance which is 15mm higher than the standard model, and features Kia’s signature ‘tiger-nose’ grille as well as SUV-style bumpers with metal-look skidplates in front and the rear.
Also unique to the X-Line model are the lime-green grille and fog lamp surrounds, the black cladding around the wheel arches, and the white and lime-green interior trim.
As for the list of standard equipment, the Picanto X-Line is fitted with many of the features available across the Picanto range, including 16-inch aluminium alloy wheels, aluminium pedals, LED DRLs and fog lamps, and keyless entry.
Inside, the car comes with a 7.0-inch ‘floating’ touch-screen HMI (human-machine interface), sat-nav with 3D maps, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, rear-view parking camera, wireless smartphone charger, and a sporty D-cut steering wheel.
Where safety is concerned, the car comes with Advanced High Strength Steel (AHSS) body construction, 6 airbags, Vehicle Stability Management (VSM) with Electronic Stability Control (ESC), as well as Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB).
Under the hood, the new model benefits from Kia’s three-cylinder 1.0-litre T-GDI engine which also powers the Cee’d model family and the new Rio, producing 100PS and 172Nm of maximum torque.
The engine, which is the most powerful one yet to be offered on the Picanto, allows the X-Line model to accelerate from 0 to 100 kmh in 10.1 seconds, while consuming 4.5-litres of fuel per 100km.
According to Kia Motors Europe, the new Picanto X-Line will make its first public appearance next week in Frankfurt and go on sale across Europe during the fourth quarter of 2017.


Frankfurt 2017: Up close With The Volkswagen Arteon

First unveiled at this year’s Geneva Motor Show, the Volkswagen Arteon, which is here to succeed the CC, is already on sale in some parts of the world.
And since it was shown in its full glory at Volkswagen’s booth at the ongoing Frankfurt Motor Show, we couldn't help it but get a closer look at what it has to offer.
Dubbed as one of the best looking Volkswagen coupe sedans in recent times, the Arteon is the brand’s new flagship model, sitting above the Passat in the current portfolio.
Offered with a range of engines including a 280PS 2.0 TSI petrol engine, 150PS 1.5 TSI petrol engine, and two 2.0 TDI diesel engines producing 240PS and 150PS respectively, power in all versions are delivered to either the front wheels or all four (4Motion variant) via either a seven-speed DSG dual clutch gearbox or a six-speed manual.
Capable of sprinting from naught to 100 in 5.4 seconds, the Arteon comes with many driver assistance features like Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with predictive cruise control; City Emergency Braking; Front Assist; Speed Assist; Traffic Jam Assist; Lane Assist and Driver Alert fatigue warning system.
Meanwhile, the list of standard features include the latest Discover Navigation system with eight-inch colour touchscreen, eight-speaker sound system, Bluetooth audio, Volkswagen Media Control, a 12.3 inch Active Info Display, 18-inch alloy wheels, as well as LED self-levelling headlights.
But that is not all, as there is the Plush Nappa leather upholstery, Car-Net connectivity with ‘Guide & Inform’, ‘Security & Service’ and ‘App-Connect’ functionality as well as Air Care Climatronic 3Zone electronic air conditioning with automatic air recirculation complete the impressive interior tech.
That being said, let us feast our eyes on the Arteon and hope that it makes it to our shores as soon as possible.


PM Umum Pakej Perlindungan Rakyat dan Pemulihan Ekonomi (PEMULIH)

Perdana Menteri, Tan Sri Muhyiddin telah mengumumkan Pakej Perlindungan Rakyat dan Pemulihan Ekonomi (PEMULIH). Menurutnya, kerajaan tidak akan berkompromi dalam soal memelihara kebajikan rakyat dan memerangi COVID-19 .

Menurut beliau, kapasiti PICK perlu ditingkatkan supaya lebih ramai lagi boleh divaksin dengan segera. Berikut merupakan antara perkara penting yang diumumkan olehnya pada perutusan khasnya sebentar tadi:

PEMULIH berjumlah RM150 bilion merangkumi suntikan langsung fiskal kerajaan RM10 bilion

Lebih RM200 bilion disalurkan setakat ini, beri manfaat kepada lebih 20 juta rakyat serta 2.4 juta perniagaan

Kerajaan telah laksana tujuh program bantuan dan pakej rangsangan sejak pandemik COVID-19  bernilai keseluruhan RM380 bilion

Kerajaan akan salurkan Bantuan Tunai langsung kepada rakyat, berjumlah RM10 bilion sehingga hujung tahun ini

Kerajaan perluas Elaun Mencari Pekerjaan kepada bukan pencarum Perkeso, graduan baharu, lepasan sekolah, pekerja sektor tak formal

Kerajaan umum Bantuan Khas COVID-19 (BKC) dengan peruntukan RM4.6 bilion

PEMULIH: RM500 Bantuan Kehilangan Pendapatan disalur pada bulan Oktober kepada pekerja yang hilang pendapatan

Kerajaan perluas Elaun Mencari Pekerjaan kepada bukan pencarum Perkeso, graduan baharu, lepasan sekolah, pekerja sektor tak formal

PEMULIH: RM10 juta untuk laksana Bantuan Bakul Makanan khusus untuk masyarakat Orang Asli

PEMULIH: RM300,000 disalurkan kepada setiap Ahli Parlimen kerajaan dan pembangkang untuk Bantuan Bakul Makanan kepada golongan terjejas

Kerajaan terus kekal harga runcit petrol RON95, diesel dan LPG yang dijangka babit subsidi lebih RM6 bilion tahun ini

PEMULIH: Kerajaan perluas sokongan psikososial melalui saluran seperti talian kasih serta peruntukan RM15 juta kepada NGO bantu tangani isu sosial

PEMULIH: Kerajaan laksana Harga Kawalan berasas nilai ambang Crude Palm Oil bagi tangani kenaikan harga minyak masak botol 1kg-5kg

PEMULIH: Diskaun bil elektrik antara 5 hingga 40 peratus bagi tempoh tiga bulan mulai bil Julai ini

PEMULIH: Lanjutan pemberian satu gigabit data harian secara percuma sehingga 31 Dis 2021 dengan anggaran nilai RM500 juta, manfaatkan 44 juta pelanggan

PEMULIH: RM500 Bantuan Kehilangan Pendapatan disalur pada bulan Oktober kepada pekerja yang hilang pendapatan

Pelanjutan tiga bulan diskaun bil elektrik 10 peratus bagi bil Oktober hingga Disember 2021 bagi sektor ekonomi terjejas

PEMULIH: RM3.8 bilion laksana Program Subsidi Upah 4.0 bantu majikan kekalkan pekerja

Kerajaan peruntukkan RM18 juta untuk bank tempatan sediakan 30 unit bank bergerak di Semenanjung Malaysia, Sabah dan Sarawak, merangkumi 250 kawasan dan mukim di luar bandar

PEMULIH: Tiada lagi syarat had gaji ditetapkan dalam pelaksanaan Program Subsidi Upah (PSU) 4.0

PEMULIH: Kerajaan setuju Penjana Kerjaya dilanjut dengan penambahbaikan dan dijenama sebagai Penjana Kerjaya 3.0

PEMULIH: RM170 juta telah disalurkan melalui Penjana Kerjaya PERKESO yang manfaatkan 10,600 majikan dan 75,800 pekerja

PEMULIH:RM100 juta pembiayaan, sokongan bantuan kewangan bantu lebih lapan ribu penggiat seni, industri seni dan kreatif tempatan

PEMULIH: Kerajaan setuju beri bantuan kewangan RM1,000 kepada semua pengusaha kantin sekolah berdaftar

PEMULIH : Bantuan one-off RM3,000 kepada pengusaha industri sukan dan operator arena sukan

Kerajaan telah bangunkan Program Pemerkasaan Pendigitalan Usahawan Kecil (PUPUK) sebagai inisiatif menyeluruh dan bersetuju peruntukkan RM200 juta untuk PMKS dan RM100 juta untuk PKS

PEMULIH: Elaun Pekerja Cacat RM500 seorang untuk tempoh tiga bulan, babit RM30 juta ringgit untuk 20 ribu orang OKU

PEMULIH: Bantuan Khas Taska RM3,000 kepada pengusaha taska seliaan KPWKM serta tadika swasta di bawah KPM

PEMULIH: Program Jaringan Inisiatif Umum dilaksana beri bantuan asas modal perniagaan kepada golongan OKU serta gelandangan

PEMULIH : Bantuan 'one-off' RM3,000 buat lebih 5,300 agensi pelancongan berdaftar sebagai pendorong atau 'kick start' apabila negara beralih ke fasa ketiga PPN

Melalui pakej PEMULIH, BNM bersetuju menambah RM2 bilion lagi untuk akses bantuan kewangan kepada usahawan PKS

KWSP perkenalkan kemudahan pengeluaran baharu iaitu i-Citra, membolehkan ahlinya buat pengeluaran sehingga RM5,000 dengan kadar bayaran tetap RM1,000 sebulan untuk tempoh 5 bulan

PEMULIH: Bayaran balik pinjaman Perbadanan Tabung Pembangunan Kemahiran (PTPK) ditangguhkan selama tiga bulan

COVID: Kerajaan kekal kadar pemberian vaksin secara purata melebihi 200 ribu sehari dalam tempoh tujuh hari lalu

PEMULIH: Ansuran cukai bulanan, pengecualian cukai pelancongan dan perkhidmatan ditangguh untuk pengendali hotel hinggga akhir tahun

PEMULIH: Kerajaan setuju beri moratorium bersasar selama tiga bulan kepada peminjam PTPTN

PEMULIH: Moratorium enam bulan tanpa syarat akan diberikan kepada semua peminjam individu, sama ada dari golongan B40, M40 atau T20 dan usahawan mikro

PEMULIH: Ansuran cukai bulanan, pengecualian cukai pelancongan dan perkhidmatan ditangguh untuk pengendali hotel hinggga akhir tahun

PEMULIH: Pinjaman Pelajaran Mara ditangguhkan bagi tempoh tiga bulan atau penjadualan semula bayaran balik pinjaman dengan ansuran bulanan serendah RM100 selama 12 bulan

PPV diminta beroperasi tujuh hari seminggu bagi mempercepat pemberian vaksin kepada rakyat

PEMULIH: Nilai keseluruhan inisiatif berkaitan penangguhan bayaran balik pinjaman pelajaran dianggarkan RM400 juta, akan manfaatkan 1.6 juta rakyat

Program vaksinasi akan menjadi kunci utama kejayaan negara melawan COVID-19

PEMULIH: Kerajaan sedia pertimbangkan kebenaran kepada syarikat untuk beroperasi pada kapasiti penuh sekiranya semua pekerja telah lengkap dua dos vaksin.

Beberapa program di peringkat komuniti akan disegerakan bagi memastikan golongan rentan tidak terkecuali daripada mendapatkan suntikan vaksin

Kerajaan setuju selaras elaun khas petugas barisan hadapan kesihatan terlibat PICK daripada RM200 ke RM600 selama enam bulan mulai Julai

Untuk maklumat yang lebih menyeluruh tentang pakej bantuan yang telah diumumkan, anda boleh merujuk pada video ini:

*Kredit video: Awani

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Prasarana Says Ampang Line LRT Extension Project (LEP) On Schedule

Prasarana Malaysia Sdn Bhd says the Ampang LEP, the LRT Line Extension Project for the Ampang LRT line, is on schedule and will begin Phase 1 work on October 31 2015.
The Sun Daily
 reports Datuk Zohari Sulaiman, the project’s group director, denied claims of a delay on the project. Various stakeholders and contractors are committed to the scheduled completion of the LRT Line Extension. To ensure good progress, they have also committed to rigorous mitigation and acceleration plans, without compromising safety.
"For Phase 2, the completion date for the project is on March 31, 2016. We are committed to deliver the project on time. There's no issue of delay," Zohari said in a statement.
This is in response to reports Tan Sri Tan Kay Hock, chairman of systems works contractor George Kent (Malaysia) Bhd, who stated he expects a delay of a year in the RM1.1 billion Ampang LRT extension project due to issues with site access, according to The Sun. The project is scheduled to be completed in March 2016.
New trains for the Ampang LRT Line are also being tested progressively
Zohari, also the CEO of Prasarana Rail and Infrastructure Projects Sdn Bhd (PRAISE), stated that overall completion of Phase 1, involving the opening of four new stations along the Ampang Line LRT route, was already at 92.58%.
"We are very confident that we can meet the timelines. The four new stations – Awan Besar, Muhibbah, Alam Sutera and Kinrara BK5 along the Ampang LEP will be opened for full service on October 31. The remaining stations under Phase 2 are close to 70% complete, overall," he added.
"Everyone should just focus on the work in hand. With the aggressive mitigation and acceleration plans, we would meet the targets of the revenue service date.”
According to him, plans are in motion to organise a media briefing regarding the Ampang LEP in the weeks to come.


Vote & win with Carlist.my's Car Of The Year 2022

The
Carlist.my Car Of The Year
 awards are back for 2022 and here's your chance to win some cool prizes just by casting your vote.

While waiting for the 15th general election (GE15) to come around on 19 November 2022, you can practice your voting skills by choosing which cars deserve to be awarded the People's Choice Awards - Car of the Year (PCACOTY). To vote,
CLICK HERE
.

Apple, Dyson & Xiaomi products to be won

To vote for your favourite cars under the People's Choice Awards - Car of the Year categories, head over to
https://event.carlist.my/caroftheyear2022/
 and start placing your votes for a total of 18 categories listed below (for cars that were on sale from June 2021 to September 2022):

Entry-level Sedan and Hatch (Under RM60,000)

B-Segment Sedan and Hatch (RM60,000 - RM100,000)

B-Segment SUV (RM60,000 - RM140,000)

C-Segment Sedan and Hatch (RM100,000 - RM150,000)

C-Segment SUV (RM100,000 - RM150,000)

C-Segment SUV (RM150,000 - RM250,000)

7-Seater SUV (RM150,000 - RM250,000)

D-Segment Sedan (RM150,000 - RM250,000)

Small/Midsize MPV (RM60,000 - RM160,000)

Pickup Truck (RM100,000 - RM150,000)

Premium Sedan (Entry)

Premium Sedan (Midsize)

Performance SUV

Premium SUV (Midsize/Midsize Coupe)

Premium SUV (Large/Large Coupe)

Battery Electric Vehicle (RM150,000 - RM250,000)

Battery Electric Vehicle (RM250,000 - RM350,000)

Battery Electric Vehicle (RM350,000 & Above)

Once you're done with the voting, all you have to do after that is fill in your details (name, email, contact, etc). If you're one of the lucky ones, you'll win a brand new Apple iPhone 14, Apple iPad, Apple Watch, Dyson cordless vacuum, or a bunch of premium Xiaomi products.

Don't forget to vote, folks! It's free, online, and will only take a few minutes of your time. The voting period has already begun and will end when the clock strikes midnight on 13 November 2022. To begin casting your votes,
CLICK HERE
.


Hyundai To Unveil ‘Genesis’ As Their New Premium Standalone Brand

Hyundai
wants to get in on the high-margin luxury car market, as both a brand-booster, profit-driver, and a showcase of its abilities when less constrained by meeting the budget demands of more inexpensive models. And so they are reportedly planning an standalone premium brand called Genesis.
Think
Lexus
 to
Toyota
 or
Infiniti
 to
Nissan
, from next month Hyundai’s premium arm will start operations and begin to unveil vehicles aimed at customers a notch or two above who they are accustomed to selling to, writes Reuters.
In fact, they have had some experience in this premium segment already with the Equus and the Genesis, the car where from the new sub-brand takes its namesake, and which was
launched in Malaysia earlier this year
.
But one could argue that to truly capture the market more effectively, it had to shed the Hyundai brand which, to the majority of consumers, was not congruent with the premium price tags that came with these cars. It needed a clean slate, especially as the Korean automaker faces stiffer competition by European luxury brands pushing into the mass market. And with the Genesis brand, that appears to be the course they've chosen.
“We want to take another leap forward by responding to the fast-growing luxury auto market,” Hyundai Vice Chairman Chung Eui-sun said at a press conference recently.
Under the Genesis name emblazoned on a car, Hyundai since 2008 has carved out a solid base to swivel the perceptions in favour of its premium credentials but has now opted to roll all its high-end luxury offerings under one new global brand.
Also, and telling of their commitment to the enterprise, Hyundai has hired Luc Donckerwolke, veteran designer from the
Volkswagen
 Group into the fledgling Genesis brand. Donckerwolke was previously chief designer at
Bentley
 and has also held prominent roles within
Audi
 and
Lamborghini
 during that tenure.
Some have reportedly even pegged him as being the planned successor to Peter Schreyer as the head of design for the Hyundai, Kia, and Genesis brands.
It is uncertain whether success will come easily or at all for Genesis and their parent company, Hyundai, but more will become clear when the brand becomes more vocal about their future plans and vehicle roadmap. They are due to announce five new luxury models, including SUVs, starting from December.


Review: Toyota C-HR 1.8L – Toyota Is Back, And Braver Than Ever

If the recent general elections have taught us anything, is that change is the only constant. Be it one person, a political party or even a whole nation, change is continuous, and adapting to change is key to survival and success.
But change requires challenging the status quo, questioning tried and tested methods and thinking in different ways from the past.
Stepping back to fully take in the C-HR's sleek silhouette – this is change. In its finest distillation. Gone are the sedate, yawn-inducing designs of yesteryear, in its place bold lines, sharp looking proportions and most of all, youthful character.
Cars like the Toyota MR-2, Celica, and Supra come to mind, even the Lexus LS400 – cars that took the fight to the world, and then showed them how it’s done!
In my opinion, the C-HR is more than just a car – it's Toyota’s return to form. A change of its mindset and a renewed sense of daring that it had probably lost in the wake global product recalls, a massive earthquake in Japan, and floods in Thailand that threatened to cripple the company’s ASEAN operations.
Of course, if you can attribute this renewed sense of belief to one entity or person – it’s Akio Toyoda. Grandson of founder Kiichiro Toyoda, he joined Toyota Motor Corporation (TMC) in April 1984 – and served in every phase of automotive operations, including production, marketing, and product development before ascending to the throne in 2009.
Very early on – he perceptibly noticed something wrong with his cars. Not that they weren’t reliable and well-engineered – it’s that they were boring, and lacked soul.
Of course, inspiring this mammoth paradigm shift would not have been possible if Akio Toyoda thought and acted just like the ones before him. He was different.
Instead of playing golf with company top brass – Akio would take part in grassroots racing events as Morizo, his alter ego and racer alias, not because of the fame, but because he loved racing. He was mentored by the late Hiromu Naruse, Toyota’s grandmaster of chassis tuning. Naruse taught him (for nearly six years) the art of driving, and reminded him of the positive role motorsports played in the company’s past, and the effects it had on improving Toyota’s road-going vehicles.
And instead of eschewing big-dollar marketing campaigns and risky racing ventures, in 2015, he united all of Toyota’s motorsports programs under the Toyota Gazoo Racing banner and took Toyota to the World Endurance Challenge (WEC), World Rally Championship (WRC), Nürburgring 24 Hours, and Le Mans 24 Hours.
He challenged his engineers to build cars that are exciting, that people would love to own and drive. As a result, in addition to the eco-friendly Prius, we also got cars like the GT 86,
Lexus LC 500
, and
Toyota Yaris GRMN
 – not to mention, the upcoming rebirth of the hallowed
Toyota Supra
.
It is little wonder then, why the C-HR is more than just an SUV; it and others within the new stable of Toyota products, characterises Toyota’s newfound mojo, as it does speak to the dynamic resurgence of the company itself. In more ways than one, it shouts out one resounding message – Toyota is back, braver than ever.
Overview
Billed as a daring lifestyle SUV, the main emphasis of the C-HR SUV is its edgy design and promise of individuality – defined by its “Distinctive Diamond” design language and coupe-like proportions.
From its bold front fascia – featuring slim headlights that flank the front badge and extend sidewards to wrap around the front fenders, leading up to its toned waistline. Concealed rear door handles further accentuate its coupe-like proportions. The rear end is made up from complex surfaces and contours, from its taillights, which extend outwards from the body to its cantilevered roof spoiler which is complemented by a smaller lip spoiler affixed to its bootlid.
Safe to say, it’s a genuine head turner.
Measuring in at 4,360 mm in length, 1,795 mm in width, and 1,565 mm in height, the C-HR, at least in terms of dimensions, goes up against other compact SUVs such as the Honda HR-V, Mazda CX-3, Subaru XV, and Mitsubishi ASX.
But, while it may have the proportions and overall size of a B-Segment SUV. The C-HR is priced nearly RM30k more than the top spec
Honda HR-V
 (V variant) and RM20k more than
Subaru XV
 (2.0i-P). If value and practicality were the top priority, both the
Honda CR-V
 (2.0L 2WD) and Nissan X-Trail (2.0L 2WD), which sit one class higher than the C-HR, offer more for less money. So if value for money is what you are looking for, don't bother with the C-HR and check out our reviews for the Honda and the Nissan instead.
But if you seek to stand out from the crowd of CR-Vs and X-Trails driven by your neighbourhood's aunties and uncles, and all other premium lifestyle alternatives from BMW's MINI, to Volkswagen's Beetle or Mercedes-Benz's A-Class are a little bit too pricey for you, we have a solution.
So it’s best to understand that the Toyota C-HR doesn’t really conform to the big value bonanza compact SUV segment – it stands alone. On the flipside, if you’ve recently bought a family-centric Honda HR-V or Subaru XV, or even a CR-V or an X-Trail, then don’t feel bad, because your decision is sound – because it’s highly unlikely that you would have cross-shopped any of those vehicles with the driver-centric C-HR anyway.
Also, courtesy of its TNGA platform – the Toyota C-HR also sports double-wishbone rear suspension, claimed to offer sharper driving characteristics and better ride quality. It’s also important to note, that with the exception of the Subaru XV, all other compact SUVs are underpinned by modified platforms of their smaller hatchback counterparts – such as HR-V and Honda Jazz, CX-3 and Mazda 2. The C-HR, on the other hand, rests on an entirely new modular platform, which also underpins the fourth-generation
Toyota Prius
 and upcoming
Toyota Camry
.
Specifications for Toyota C-HR 1.8L
Price: RM137,300 (without insurance, GST or SST)
Engine: 1.8-litre, 4-cylinder transverse, DOHC, Dual VVT-i
Power: 140 PS @ 6,400rpm
Torque: 171Nm @ 4,000rpm
Transmission: CVT, front-wheel drive
Safety: 7-airbags, Anti-Lock Brakes (ABS), Brake Assist (BA), Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD), Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Traction Control, Hill Start Assist (HSA), Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) with Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA)
Origin: Fully-imported from Thailand
Exterior
Rarely does a car in this price range generate as much excitement while being driven. I lost count of the times I saw people in other glancing through their windows while parked alongside in traffic, or peering across the roads when I’d cruise by high-street shopping malls. In equal amounts, its bold lines and svelte silhouette gets attention from both men and women.
Whether you consider the C-HR’s design bold and edgy or complex and divisive, there’s no denying it’s dramatic, and a terrific conversation starter. And let’s be honest, even if you drove a MINI Cooper, which costs quite a bit more – the C-HR would still garner more attention simply because it's unique and not as ubiquitous. And that for me is RM137k well spent.
Personally, the 17-inch rims are too small and boring for me, if the shoes really make the man, then I would love some aggressive looking 18- or even 19-inch wheels, to fill the C-HR’s wheel arches, and match the striking sheet metal.
Interior
From its dashboard architecture to its driver-centered layout, the interior of the C-HR exhibits modern flair and functionality in equal amounts. The soft touch trim that runs atop the dash, and the diamond pattern inserts on the door cards – create a sense of occasion uncommon to Toyota models of the past.
I am particularly fond of the minimalist arrangement of climate-control switchgear, which I believe adds to the premium feel of the cabin.
Personally, I think the 7-inch touch screen infotainment is a joy to operate, intuitive and easy to navigate, but it still lacks in terms of overall execution. The housing is too plasticky, and the screen resolution could be better. And, while I won’t classify the trim plastics (especially in the lower regions of the interior) as hard and scratchy, they could use a better texturing.
The seats themselves are very supportive – front and rear – and I must say, the lateral support of the front seats is almost as good as some semi-bucket items, positioning me nicely in reach of the steering wheel and pedals. At the rear, one would have to be mindful of the ambient light - the drawback of having that sleek rear window line is that ambient light at the rear is severely reduced, which could lead to passengers feeling slightly claustrophobic, especially children. It's actually more spacious than the dimly illuminated rear suggests.
Otherwise, in terms of overall space and practicality, the C-HR actually isn’t too bad, legroom both at the front and rear is adequate. The boot will swallow most everyday items, and even longer IKEA flat packaging with the rear backrests folded down. Of course, it won’t accommodate a two-seater sofa like the HR-V can (trust me, I’ve done this), but it’s no deal breaker either.
Not forgetting the C-HR’s ace card, its overall refinement and cabin quietness is comparable to that of higher class SUVs such as the CR-V and Volkswagen Tiguan, making the C-HR superb on the daily trot, especially on Malaysia’s pothole-laden roads.
Driving Experience
This leads me to a bold statement, but one I make it with confidence – the C-HR is amongst the most comfortable vehicles I’ve ever driven as a motoring journalist. Just for sheer pliancy, it’s up there with my all-time personal favourites – the Volvo XC90, (F10) BMW 520i, and Mazda Biante. It feels very European in nature and in execution.
This might be at odds with its edgy and sporty exterior – but I assure you, it’s all the better for it. The body rigidity is superb, which allows the suspension to shift through its motions and work its way around the bumps and ruts of the road. The double-wishbone rear suspension nicely isolates secondary motions, which in turn gives the C-HR superb poise and surefootedness.
Even when driving hard through tighter bends and uneven B-roads, the chassis remains nicely adjustable and progressive right to the very limit of mechanical grip. The steering is responsive and adept enough at making small adjustments mid-corner, without feeling too vague in longer, sweeping stretches. Given its dynamism and superb-body control, the C-HR manages to be very quick when on a spirited drive, additionally, in wet conditions, the softer setup of the suspension allows the tyres to claw into the road, adding to your confidence.
Performance from the 1.8-litre four-cylinder won't set your pants on fire, but its mid-range torque makes for building speed, right up to 140 km/h a rather effortless affair. Also, the engine doesn’t mind being revved and remains linear in response throughout the rev range. But one does get a sense that the chassis can handle more power.
The gearbox, however, while being superb at low speeds and smooth when on a cruise, it can seem a tad overworked when pushed hard. The CVT is decently agile in terms of loosening or tightening itself to make good on the engine’s power, but, will protest quite a bit once the rev needle pushes past 4,500 rpm
It gets better once in its “manual” mode, which allows for shifting between seven pseudo ratios, allowing you to hold a ratio longer depending on driving conditions.
For comparison, the Honda HR-V does deliver the same amount of performance as the C-HR, but can’t match the C-HR’s overall dynamism and agility. The Subaru XV, in my opinion, is as sharp to drive and would be as quick – but the C-HR still betters it in terms of overall comfort levels.
After nearly 600 km of driving, I averaged around 8.6 litres/100km when driving conservatively, to around 11.0 litres/100km when blasting up the hallowed Ulu Yam route to Gohtong Jaya. Not exceptional, but good nonetheless.
Conclusion
For a second, try to imagine the C-HR without a Toyota badge plastered on it – for discussion’s sake, let’s assume it had a MINI or Audi badge, would it be more interesting then?
More importantly how much will pay for something, with a different badge, that looks like the C-HR, keeping in mind that it also offers superb reliability, great aftersales service, and rock-solid residual values?
Yes, if it’s viewed through the lenses of practicality and value, there are quite a few other options that deliver vastly more bang-for-your-buck
In my opinion, it comes down to this, there are essentially two groups of customers which won’t buy the C-HR and one group that will, and it mostly comes down to purchasing power.
Firstly, a younger group of people – professionals, executives, and the like – who can instantly appreciate the C-HR’s design, presence, and desirability. Plus, they can live with its reduced quantum of practicality. But for the most part, the asking price might be a stretch too far, not since presentable options such as the Honda HR-V and Subaru XV can be obtained for much cheaper.
The second group customers, which would consist of slightly older, financially established individuals which would still love the C-HR for all the right reasons, and can easily afford a car worth RM137k, but perhaps also have to consider the demands of a growing family, and the requirement of practicality. In which case, bigger cars like the Nissan X-Trail and Honda CR-V just make more sense.
The third group; affluent additional-car buyers, are those that have the freedom to place their lifestyle statement above all other parameters.
You’ve seen them around, in their Volkswagen Beetles, MINI Coopers, and A-Class Mercedes-Benzes. If we isolate the best traits of the MINI Cooper – it's excellent driving dynamics, premium interior, and head-turning exterior design, they're all traits which are clear and present in the Toyota C-HR as well. So instead of thinking of the C-HR as a rather expensive compact SUV, think of it as a lower entry point into the growing premium lifestyle segment.
When we reframe the Toyota C-HR in the context of the MINI Cooper and Mercedes-Benz A-Class, which all cost some RM50k dearer mind you, isn’t the Toyota C-HR a breath of fresh air and superb value for money too, not to mention that it's a lot more comfortable and handles just as well, even if it's severely down on power compared to its turbocharged alternatives.
This could also be why that despite the negativity that this car gets from social media commenters who can't afford the car, UMW Toyota Motor is struggling to get enough cars from Toyota's plant in Thailand to meet local demand. Since its launch, the C-HR has consistently exceeded the company's modest expectations (understandable given its price). Book one today and you can expect to wait for at least 2 to 3 months before receiving your car. So not only must you pay a lot more than an equivalent HR-V (from RM 91,865 without insurance, GST or SST) or even a higher class CR-V (from RM133,545 without insurance GST or SST), you also have to wait longer for the C-HR. Test drive one and you will understand why.


ASEAN NCAP: Four-star Rating For All-New Proton Saga

The all-new Proton Saga has been awarded a four-star safety rating by ASEAN NCAP ahead of its launch later this month.
Contrary to our earlier expectations, the upcoming all-new Saga did not match the five-star rating performance of its higher range sibling the
all-new Persona
.
The all-new Saga scored 13.33 out of 16.00 points in Adult Occupant Protection, putting it within the 4-star range. In the area of Child Occupant Protection, it scored 71 percent, also putting it within the 4-star range.
In comparison, the
Perodua Bezza
, which the upcoming all-new Saga is supposed to compete against, scored 15.38 points in Adult Occupant Protection, and models equipped with Electronic Stability Control (ESC) were given the maximum 5-star rating.
The all-new Saga is expected to be launched by the end of September.


First Of Its Kind McLaren GT Launched In Malaysia – From RM908k

The latest and most luxurious model of the McLaren range has made its entry into the Malaysian market – dubbed the GT; it's designed for customers who want trademark McLaren performance, along with the comfort and usability of a grand tourer.

In essence, the GT breaks new ground in terms of being the only mid-engined sports car that has the ability to pack a golf bag and a weekend’s worth of luggage.

It now complements other McLaren thoroughbreds such as the 570S Coupe and Spider, 600 LT Coupe and Spider, and the 720S Coupe and Spider – all of which, are officially offered here through the Malaysian sole distributor, Mc Farren Supercars.

The GT tips the scales at just 1,530 kg (much lower than other grand tourers such as the Bentley Continental GT and Ferrari Portofino) thanks to its new carbon fibre MonoCell II-T (monocoque) chassis, which additionally offers a low centre of gravity, increased agility, and a stable ride. In traditional McLaren fashion, every component is evaluated for its form, function, and weight savings to deliver an ideal balance of power and weight.

The GT is powered by a 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 that delivers 620 PS and 630 Nm of torque. The engine is mated to a 7-speed dual-clutch (called Seamless Shift Gearbox- SSG), which powers the rear wheels. The GT is offered as standard with fully-independent Adaptive Damping, Launch control, and the McLaren brake steer system. Four-pot calipers which clamp on steel brakes at all four corners.

In terms of performance, the GT completes the 0-100 km/h sprint in 3.1 seconds, 0-200 km/h in 9.0 seconds and has a top speed of 326 km/h. Fuel efficiency is rated at 11.9 L/100km accordant to WLTP standards.

On the inside, the GT is offered as standard with Carbon Black Nappa leather seats and a leather steering wheel. Taking centre stage is the McLaren Infotainment System II (MIS II), made up of a 7-inch portrait touch screen monitor, and a 12.3-inch TFT instrument cluster. Dual-zone climate control and a McLaren 4-speaker audio system are also standard fares.

On the outside, the smooth and sleek GT features Full LED headlights at the front and sequential LED taillights. The display unit seen here is fitted with the optional 15-Spoke 20/21-inch (front/rear) alloy wheels, wrapped in Pirelli tyres. Dihedral doors with soft close function and a glazed rear tailgate with are supplied as standard.

As with any McLaren, the optional extras are as diverse as the standard features themselves – the display unit during the launch also features options such as a rearview camera and panoramic privacy tinted glass roof, customers may also spec a monochromic glass roof if they desire.

The McLaren GT is priced at RM908,000 before taxes and options.

Separately, the GT’s launch also coincided with the launch of the McLaren Kuala Lumpur showroom. Situated in Glenmarie, Shah Alam, the 4,520 square-feet facility conforms to the latest generation McLaren design and brand identity.

The showroom includes a fully-functioning service centre and is equipped with the McLaren interactive car configurator which offers customers an in-depth perspective when customising their vehicles.

Another new design feature is the McLaren Window, which provides a unique view of the McLaren Production Centre (MPC) back in Woking, England.


Study Shows Manufacturers Delay Recalls Until They Can Do It Together – Except For One

A recently concluded study by the Kelley School of Business (Indiana University, USA) shows that 73 percent of vehicle-based recall announcements are made in clusters, suggesting that automakers may have inexplicably delayed recall announcements until they can be done together by a number of manufacturers in order to hide in the herd and minimise the negative attention.

According to the study’s findings,
“recall announcements may not be triggered solely by individual firms’ product quality defect awareness or concern for the public interest, but may also be influenced by competitor recalls, a phenomenon that no prior research had investigated. Researchers analyzed 3,117 auto recalls over a 48-year period — from 1966 to 2013 (in the USA) — using a model to investigate recall clustering and categorized recalls as leading or following within a cluster. They found that 73 percent of recalls occurred in clusters that lasted 34 days and had 7.6 following recalls on average.

A co-author of the study “Hiding in the Herd: The Product Recall Clustering Phenomenon”, George Ball adds, “by doing this, (either consciously or unconsciously) they experience a significantly reduced stock penalty from their recall.”

Is bad press such as bad thing?

Of course, product recalls are indefinitely bad news that hurts an automaker’s sales, operations, margins, and most of all – their reputation. However, over the years, little to no automaker has been immune despite robust engineering and quality control protocols, from product defects, and consequent recalls. However, a study that shows automakers clustering recalls has thus far never been studied or detailed in such a manner.

The leading reason manufacturers do it, is to avoid the bad press that leads to what researchers call a stock market penalty. The study found that as much as a 67 percent stock market penalty difference between leading recalls, which initiate the cluster, and following recalls, who announce later and hide in the herd to experience a lower stock penalty.

Therefore, be the first one to announce a recall, and you get hit the hardest. Announce a recall just after that, and somehow, your brand suffers less damage because it is just another recall in that similar timeline.

There has been one exception though: Toyota

Despite having the least amount of recalls, when they do announce a recall, their recall announcements have been followed 31 percent of the time, by other recall announcements in the USA. This, the study suggests, those other automakers “are likely to hide in the herd when the leading recall is announced by a firm with a stellar quality reputation such as Toyota.”

Though the study is limited to the USA, it remains one of the world’s largest auto markets and therefore is a pretty conclusive representation of the lengths a manufacturer will go to protect their reputation and stock prices, even if it isn’t in the best interest of their customers. Additionally, even if it means one automaker's recall might be for an entirely different component, or issue relating to a different car.

The study doesn’t necessarily imply that one manufacturer is worse than the other, but the study measured six major manufacturers that trade in the USA: Chrysler, Ford, General Motors, Honda, Nissan, and Toyota. The study also finds that while all companies have led recalls from time to time, none with the peerless record like Toyota, at least in the USA.

However, not all recalls are limited to just the USA

Some recalls have affected more than one manufacturer and can implicate numerous models in a manufacturer’s lineup. The most wide-reaching and disastrous has been the
Takata Airbag inflator recalls
 – which not only hurt one manufacturer but affected over a 120-million vehicles worldwide from 19 different brands such as BMW, Fiat Chrysler, Daimler, Ford, General Motors, Honda, Mazda, Mitsubishi, Nissan, Subaru, and Toyota.

In addition, the recalls announcements continue to grow – as the airbags were installed in a massive number of vehicles over a 13 year period (from 2002 to 2015). The Takata airbag recall is the largest, most expensive, and most complex recall of all time, which has to date killed an estimated 26 people worldwide – notably in the USA, Australia, and
Malaysia
 – and injured hundreds more.

It is estimated that over 500,000 vehicles in Malaysia alone are affected by the Takata Airbag crisis.

Honda and Toyota led the way globally…

The manufacturer that has arguably been hit the hardest has been Honda – who reported the first incident of a side airbag rupture (in Alabama, USA) to Takata in May 2004. In 2007 three incidents were reported by Honda. Honda led with the first recall in Nov 2008 (4,000 vehicles), a subsequent recall in June 2009 involved half a million vehicles.

In the same year, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration opened an investigation into Honda's handling of the recalls and concluded that the company had acted promptly and responsibly.

In many cases, with regards to the Takata airbag crisis – Honda and
Toyota
 led the way in many of their markets. Both companies issued prompt and transparent warnings to their customers, ensured their aftersales operations were able to cope with the new protocols, and
worked tirelessly
 to conduct replacements as quickly as possible.

In Malaysia,
Honda Malaysia’s response
 to the Takata airbag crisis was multi-pronged and far-reaching, and by all accounts, measured to be amongst the best efforts globally to mitigate and manage the crisis. Their efforts included working
closely with the government
, informing customers of the potential dangers, employing various means to reach out to owners, ensuring a steady supply of replacement airbags, and even mobilising its airbag replacement team to conduct the replacement exercise at owner residences.

Can you sell more cars by simply doing the right thing?

The answer is yes. According to Industry Week, Honda and
Toyota
 alone have announced recalls of over 110 million units globally, far more than other manufacturers, however by showing leadership and transparency in handling the recalls – both companies have actually emerged stronger, both from a brand perspective and in the stock market.

According to international analysts, Jefferies Group – clarity and prompt action with regard to the Takata crises has actually had a positive effect on Honda shares in Japan.

Even in Malaysia, Honda Malaysia racked up strong sales in the last six-years, cementing their position as the
No. 1 non-national carmaker in Malaysia
, even amidst the crisis. And though it may be hard to quantify, sustainable growth in sales is hard to achieve if customers don’t believe in your brand and what it stands for.

Who knew, just doing the right thing, is far more empowering than cowering behind someone else’s bad press, and can help you sell more cars.


MINI Malaysia Launches Nationwide Roadshow

MINI Malaysia today announced that it will be organising a nationwide roadshow from 12 August till 2 October.

Set to be held at various locations across the nation including East Malaysia, visitors will be able to test drive new
MINI vehicles
, and receive amazing deals with high rebates and low interest rates if they are to purchase a MINI.

The roadshow will also offer customers worry-free ownership packages with the MINI 4 Years Unlimited Mileage Warranty with Free Schedule Service program, including the Ultimate Protection Insurance Program.

Besides that, customers can further enhance their ownership experience at the roadshow as well, with the MINI Black Card Membership which offers exciting lifestyle, dining as well as exclusive premium benefits and experiences with partners of MINI Malaysia across the country.

Venues and dates for the MINI roadshow are as below:

Venues

 Date

Desa Park City

12
th
 – 14
th
 Aug 2016

Paradigm Mall

19
th
 – 21
st
 Aug 2016

Imago Sabah

2
nd
 – 4
th
 Sep 2016

Aeon Seremban 2

9
th
 – 11
th
 Sep 2016

Sutera Square

16
th
 – 18
th
 Sep 2016

Wangsa Walk Mall

23
th
 – 25
th
 Sep 2016

Aeon Bukit Tinggi

27
th
 Sep – 2
nd
 Oct 2016

For more information on the MINI roadshow, please visit
https://www.mini.my/en_MY/home.html
.

Looking for a MINI? Find one now at
Carlist.my


2014 Proton Iriz Slashes Price In New Promo, Now From RM37k

Previously with a price tag that started from RM42,438 for the base 1.3 Standard variant (manual transmission, solid paint),
Proton
 has just slashed prices for its base
2014 Proton Iriz
 to RM37,xxxx - roughly RM5,000 off from before.

The new price applies only to units produced last year (2014), and is for a limited time only. Specifications are as per before, while the promotion only applies for as long as stocks last, with the offer ending on the 31
st
 of March, 2015. The move likely follows the Malaysian carmaker looking to move its existing, unsold units to make way for a newer production run of the model.

Or, has the coming of the new Perodua had something to do with it?
Which would you choose, anyways?

More details of the Proton Iriz's promotions are available at your nearest authorised Proton dealership.

You can read more about the 2014 Proton Iriz here:

2014 Proton Iriz Quick Review To Penang: Turning Over More Than A Few Leaves

All-New 2014 Proton Iriz One-Stop News Info Center: The Myvi-Fighter In Full Detail


Mercedes-Benz Malaysia Celebrates 15 Years of Production At Pekan Plant, Rolls Out 100,000th Unit

Mercedes-Benz Malaysia today celebrated 15 years of production through its local assembly plant in Pekan, Pahang.
The historic milestone of the production plant was further cemented with the roll-out of the 100,000th vehicle to be produced there, which was a Mercedes-AMG C43 Sedan.
President & CEO of Mercedes-Benz Malaysia, Dr. Claus Weidner said “Mercedes-Benz is committed to continuously redefine the mobility landscape of Malaysia. We achieve the highest engineering standards in producing locally assembled vehicles, without compromising on the safety, technology, design or quality. Today marks the roll-out of our 100,000th locally assembled vehicle, testifying a growing trust and demand of Malaysian’s in Mercedes-Benz products”.
“As we set to expand our production volumes, we have undertaken technological upgrades at our plant to enhance our ability to cater to a more robust production portfolio and contribute towards an increased market share of Mercedes-Benz vehicles locally and regionally,” he added.
Spread over a total land area of 200 acres, the plant, which is manned by more than 1,300 personnel, is now equipped with advanced technology and automated production facilities, a commitment from Mercedes-Benz for cutting-edge technologies and modern processes in production.
Looking for a new Mercedes-Benz? Get the best deals
here
.