Spesifikasi Rasmi Perodua Alza 2022 Didedahkan – RM62,000 hingga RM75,000

Perodua secara rasminya telah mengeluarkan harga tentatif, spesifikasi serta warna yang bakal ditawarkan pada Perodua Alza 2022 yang bakal dilancarkan tidak lama lagi.

Menurut Perodua, mereka mengambil masa dalam merekabentuk model baharu ini kerana mereka benar-benar ingin memahami kehendak para pelanggan mereka dan Perodua Alza Baharu 2022 telah disasarkan untuk memenuhi permintaan itu.

Harga Tentatif Perodua Alza 2022

Harga tentatif bagi
Perodua Alza 2022 (D74A
) telah dikongsi oleh Perodua dan syarikat itu juga telah mengesahkan bahawa MPV baharu mereka itu juga bakal mengekalkan namanya sebagai Perodua Alza.

Walaupun sebelum ini terdapat khabar angin bahawa Perodua bakal menggunakan
nama baharu
 bagi MPV yang bakal menggantikan Alza sedia ada, namun memo tersebut telah mengesahkan bahawa nama terkemuka MPV tersebut akan dikekalkan susulan mempunyai pengaruh yang kuat di dalam pasaran.

Harga tentatif yang disyorkan bagi Perodua Alza 2022:

1.5 X CVT – RM62,000

1.5 H CVT – RM68,000

1.5 AV CVT – RM75,000

Harga yang dinyatakan ini merupakan harga di atas jalan (OTR) tanpa insurans bagi Semenanjung Malaysia. Walau bagaimanapun, Perodua mengatakan bahawa harga sebenar hanya akan didedahkan semasa pelancarannya nanti.

Tempahan Dibuka

Tempahan bagi Perodua Alza 2022 ini juga telah dibuka secara rasminya bermula hari ini, sementara penghantaran akan dibuat setelah pelancaran rasminya. Waktu menunggu bagi model ini pula dijangkakan dalam satu ke dua bulan, mengikut varian serta warna yang ditempah.

Perodua turut telah mengesahkan pelanggan yang membuat tempahan kenderaan sebelum 1 Julai 2022 akan menerima
pengecualian SST
 asalkan kenderaan itu di daftarkan sebelum 31 Mac 2023.

Warna

Tersedia dalam tiga varian, X, H dan AV,  Perodua Alza Baharu didatangkan dalam 5 warna:

Ivory White

Glittering Silver

Garnet Red

Elegant Black (BAHARU)

Vintage Brown (BAHARU)

Pengalaman Pemanduan Lebih Baik

Menurut Presiden dan Ketua Pegawai Eksekutif Perodua Dato’ Zainal Abidin Ahmad, mereka mengambil masa untuk menghasilkan model ini bagi memberikan pengalaman pemanduan yang lebih baik dengan menambahbaik Ground Clearance Perodua Alza 2022 kepada 160mm. Menurut penilaian Perodua, ianya adalah ketinggian terbaik untuk pemanduan Malaysia yang menyenangkan untuk sebuah MPV.

Selain itu, Perodua Alza Baharu mempunyai ruang yang lebih besar berbanding pendahulunya, terutama sekali di barisan ketiga ruangan kenderaan serta unit penyaman udara bahagian belakang.

Selain itu, potensi kecekapan bahan api Perodua Alza Baharu juga telah dipertingkatkan sehingga
22km
 seliter, yang juga antara yang terbaik dalam kelasnya (MPV).

Untuk ruang penyimpanan, Perodua Alza Baharu mempunyai kapasiti bagasi sebanyak
137 liter
, dan
498 liter
 jika tempat duduk barisan ketiga dilipatkan.

Ciri Keselamatan

Dari segi keselamatan, kesemua varian didatangkan dengan 6 beg udara.
Antara ciri keselamatan standard lain bagi model baharu ini termasuk ABS dengan EBD, kawalan kestabilan kenderaan (VSC) dengan bantuan brek dan sensor belakang untuk membantu meletakkan kereta.

Perodua Alza Baharu turut didatangkan dengan suit
Perodua Smart Drive Assist (PSDA)
, yang boleh dibahagikan kepada empat kategori; Bantuan Keselamatan Termaju (ASA), Bantuan Pemandu, Bantuan Tempat Letak Kereta dan Bantuan Lampu Hadapan.

Ciri-ciri terkini bagi model Perodua termasuk Pandangan Panoramik 360 darjah, Brek Letak Kereta Elektronik dengan Pegangan Brek Auto, Brek Cakera Belakang dan Mod Pemanduan Baharu: Normal, Eco dan Power.

Selain itu, Perodua Alza Baharu menyeragamkan ciri Advanced Safety Assist atau ASA dalam semua varian. Ini termasuk; Pre-collision Warning, Pre-Collision Assist Brake (untuk kenderaan dan pejalan kaki), Mis-pedal Operational Control dan Front Departure Alert.

Semua varian juga mempunyai sistem Lane Departure Warning dan Lane Departure Prevention. Sebagai bonus tambahan, semua varian juga akan dilengkapi dengan fungsi Leaving Home Headlamp Assist dan Hill-start Assist.

Perbandingan Harga

Walaupun harga tentatif bukanlah harga rasmi, namun para pelanggan sedikit sebanyak dapat menjangkakan julat harga Alza baharu nanti mungkin tidak lari jauh berdasarkan harga yang diberikan.

Perodua Alza sedia ada dijual pada harga bermula RM49,944 sehingga RM60,525. Ini menunjukkan bahawa varian terendah Alza 2022 nanti lebih mahal berbanding varian tertinggi bagi Alza sedia ada. Harga Alza ini lebih setanding dengan
Perodua Ativa
 yang dijual pada harga RM61,500 hingga RM72,000 serta SUV 7 tempat duduk mereka, iaitu
Perodua Aruz
 yang dijual pada harga RM68,526 hingga RM7373,226.

Para pelanggan dialu-alukan untuk mengunjungi mana-mana daripada 188 bilik pameran jualan Perodua di seluruh negara atau layari laman web rasminya untuk maklumat lanjut.

*Kredit Video: Perodua


Fuel Price Update: 11 - 17 Jan - Petrol Down

The Ministry of Domestic Trade, Cooperatives, and Consumerism (KPDNKK) has announced new petrol and diesel prices for the one week.
Effective tomorrow, the price for a litre of petrol will decrease by 3 sen while diesel price will remain unchanged at RM2.32 per litre.
That being said, the prices for petrol and diesel will be as mentioned below:
RON95 – RM2.26 per litre (down 3 sen from RM2.29)
RON97 – RM2.53 per litre (down 3 sen from RM2.56)
Diesel – remains unchanged at RM2.32 per litre


First Drive: Volkswagen Tiguan Allspace R-Line

It’s the first time a turbocharged 2.0-litre Tiguan has been available in Malaysia in over a decade, and it comes with two extra seats.

The Tiguan holds a special place in my heart. While there are many examples of crossovers over the years that have been based on largely successful hatchbacks, the first generation Tiguan was one of the earliest ones that felt like the perfect blend of practicality, driving dynamics, and refinement. It was approachable and easy to love, and the second generation built on those core strengths while evolving the Tiguan image into something more stand-alone.

While the name doesn’t make much sense – a combination of Tiger and Iguana – the crossover does so in a variety of ways. The Tiguan was always available as a five-seater from the first generation, but this second generation adds a little variety with the Allspace option that throws in a third row of seats for a total capacity of seven. Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia launched the crossover not too long ago, in both 1.4 TSI Highline and 2.0 TSI R-Line variants.

As part of a showcase of their R-Line models, VPCM provided both the Arteon and the Tiguan Allspace to test over the course of a day. For the Tiguan Allspace R-Line, the obvious talking points are regarding its performance with 220 PS and 350 Nm of torque being sent through a 7-speed wet-clutch DSG gearbox to all four wheels via the 4MOTION all-wheel-drive system. Let’s not forget the third row of seats – though we didn’t really have much time to test this out over the course of the drive.

The drive started with a quick jaunt down the highway from Puchong to Serdang, where the ever popular MARDI MAEPS car parks played host to a dynamics and handling cone course. It was fairly bread and butter stuff, but it’s always enjoyable to throw a crossover or SUV into things they’re not really meant for. With total competence under hard braking – no surprises here – the only possibility of unsettling this larger-than-life Tiguan would be in the lane change and slalom exercises.

But alas, the Tiguan Allspace R-Line made it through unscathed. Part of that is down to the 4MOTION system shuffling power to the right axle at the right time, while the other part of it is down to just how well the chassis works – even if the core design is nearly two generations old. There is a remarkable amount of progressiveness and predictability that lets you stay confidently in control, right up to where the safety systems have to step in.

Beyond this, our drive took us on towards Janda Baik via a combination of Karak Highway and certain sections of old trunk road. Again, the Tiguan Allspace R-Line performed as the Tiguan would – unflappable, taking the bumps and undulations in stride, while still being able to enter corners with eagerness and precision. Everything we love about the vanilla Tiguan is present here – but of course, you wouldn’t be driving spiritedly if you had a pair of passengers in the third row or they may end up losing their lunch. A quick demonstration of the off-road mode after lunch was par for the course; the hill descent control works as well as it would in dedicated off-road machines.

That brought us to the end of our test drive – but if it seems all-too-brief, perhaps that was the point. The Tiguan Allspace R-Line builds on the established strengths of the Tiguan we know and love, with an extra row of seats and the performance that the Tiguan arguably deserved from the outset. Elements like the virtual cockpit and the larger central infotainment screen are great features to have, although they blend in and become more of an expectation and part of the background of the experience than something that demands your attention.

Even if you choose the 1.4 TSI Highline model, you won’t be disappointed (fun fact: the lighter engine actually makes it a little more agile), as we once again have a seven-seater Volkswagen available for Malaysian consumption.


Bangkok 2017: Honda CR-V Thai Market Preview; 1.6 i-DTEC & 2.4 i-VTEC

The
all-new 2017 Honda CR-V
 is coming to this region soon, with our Thai counterparts in
AutoSpinn
 getting a quick preview of the vehicle ahead of the Thai market launch set to take place on 24 March 2017, ahead of the upcoming Bangkok International Motor Show.
Four model variants are being planned for the
Thai market
, which will be getting the CR-V with seven seats as standard. As with the current model, there will be a choice between front- and all-wheel drive configurations.
Engine options consist of a 2.4-litre petrol model with a CVT and, for the first time in this region, Honda’s 1.6-litre i-DTEC turbodiesel engine mated with a ZF-sourced 9-speed torque converter automatic transmission.
Previously offered only in the European market, Honda’s i-DTEC turbodiesel puts out an impressive 160hp @ 4,000rpm and 350Nm @ 2,000rpm.
The CR-V’s new platform offers, as before, all-round independent suspension with MacPherson struts up front and a multi-link setup astern. Tyre size is an unusual 195/60 R18.
A notable feature of the CR-V’s interior, as you would see in these pictures sent to us from
AutoSpinn
, is the button-operated interface of its automatic transmission. This feature likely comes exclusive with the diesel model’s ZF 9-speed auto.
In other markets, US notably, we found petrol-powered variants of the CR-V to come with Honda’s in-house CVT to utilize a more conventional PRNDL shifter. The electronic parking brake should be standard for all though.
Safety-wise, Honda provides the Thai market with six airbags as standard for all variants of the CR-V.
Accounting for its newfound brief as a seven-seater, the 2017 CR-V features dedicated cooling for rear passengers complete with a separate cooling coil.
With its Thai market launch in the horizon, the all-new 2017 CR-V’s
arrival in Malaysia
 is likely to be around the corner as well. The diesel model, whilst grabbing headlines in the Thai market, is unlikely to make it here, however, owing to continued concerns of diesel quality in our market.
A more likely powertrain selection for our market would be the 1.5-litre VTEC Turbo engine presently available in the
Civic
 and may be the 2.4-litre i-VTEC motor shared with the
Accord
. Expect a mix of front- and all-wheel drive variants as well.


GALLERY: Porsche 918 Spyder in Malaysia @ Porsche Sungai Besi Showroom

In conjunction with the opening of the Porsche Centre in Sungai Besi, Sime Darby Auto Performance and
Porsche
 Malaysia took the opportunity to bring a real crowd-pleaser, show-stopper of a car to display: the Porsche 918 Spyder.
It’s a stunning thing to behold, we know, but let’s recap what it offers. And since we haven’t yet driven it ourselves, its staggering collection of numbers will have to suffice.
Its race-derived 4.6-litre V8 engine revs to a lofty 8,500 rpm and produces 608hp and 528Nm of torque. Supplementing this petrol power plant at the rear is a 154hp electric motor, and these two drive units transmit power to the wheels via a 7-speed PDK double-clutch transmission. Front drive is also provided via a 125hp electric motor that can decouple itself from the front axle when not needed or deliver its instant power when it’s called for. All said, it has a combined power output of 887hp and 1,275Nm of torque.
It allows this amazing 1,700kg machine to reach 100km/h from standstill in just 2.5 seconds and a top speed of 340km/h. Since it’s a plug-in hybrid, its battery can be recharged from the mains and even affords this car an all-electric range of 19 kilometres.
Alright, enough talk. We could go on, but here are the pictures.


BMW and MINI Malaysia 2020 Updated Pricelist With SST Exemption

The updated price list pretty much includes all of the cars from BMW and MINI Malaysia's line up.

BMW and MINI Malaysia have released an updated price list for their cars, including the ones that were recently launched like the M135i XDrive, M2 Competition as well as the much-coveted MINI John Cooper Works GP.

Effective up until 31st December 2020, the updated price list reflects the Sales and Services Tax (SST) reduction that was set by the government back in June as well as the ongoing RM33,000.00 cash rebate campaign for the BMW 630i GT, along with the MINI ‘Add Independence’ campaign that features a range of cash rebates and installment support for selected MINI models.

For those who are looking to purchase a BMW or a MINI, this list down below could be of some help to you for a better indication of their current prices.

BMW Pricelist

Model

Pricing With SST

 Price With SST Exemption

Difference

M135i xDrive

RM368,800

RM355,646.25

-RM13,153.75

M2 Competition

RM631,800

RM608,866.69

-RM22,933.31

320i Sport

RM248,800

RM241,794.40

-RM7,005.60

330i M Sport

RM293,800

RM286,187.48

-RM7,612.52

M4 Coupe

RM772,800

N/A

N/A

520i Luxury

RM328,800

RM318,468.78

-RM10,331.22

530e M Sport

RM338,800

RM333,692.91

-RM5,107.09

530i M Sport

RM372,800

RM363,756.37

-RM9,043.63

M5

RM1,010,800.00

N/A

N/A

630i GT M Sport

RM430,800

RM418,131.09

-RM12,668.91

740Le xDrive

RM598,800

RM569,052.87

-RM29,747.13

M850i xDrive Coupe

RM598,800

N/A

N/A

M8 Coupe

RM1,496,800

RM1,452,960.88

-RM43,839.12

840i Gran Coupe M Sport

RM968,8000

RM937,411.23

-RM31,388.77

M8 Gran Coupe

RM1,496,800

RM1,455,145.25

-RM41,654.75

X1 sDrive18i

RM215,800

RM208,368.48

-RM7,431.52

X1 sDrive20i M Sport

RM238,800

RM230,410.37

-RM8,389.63

X2 sDrive20i M Sport

RM328,800

N/A

N/A

X2 M35i

RM398,800

N/A

N/A

X3 xDrive30i Luxury

RM313,800

RM304,234.72

-RM9,565.28

X3 xDrive30i M Sport

RM333,800

RM324,163.87

-RM9,636.13

X3 M Competition

RM916,800

RM886,551.58

-RM30,248.42

X4 xDrive30i M Sport

RM375,800

RM364,062.14

-RM11,737.86

X4 M Competition

RM934,800

RM904,276.60

-RM30,523.40

X5 xDrive45e M Sport

RM448,800

RM440,745

-RM8,055.00

X6 xDrive40i M Sport

RM729,800

RM703,947.39

-RM25,852.61

X7 xDrive40i Pure Excellence

RM888,800

RM861,846.72

-RM26,953.28

Z4 sDrive30i M Sport

RM484,800

RM469,510.09

-RM15,289.91

i3s

RM278,800

RM268,823.96

-RM9,976.04

i8 Coupe

RM1,408,800

N/A

N/A

i8 Roadster

RM1,508,800

N/A

N/A

MINI Pricelist

Model

Pricing With SST

Price With SST Exemption

Difference

MINI Cooper S 3 Door

RM249,888

RM240,777.56

-RM9,110.44

MINI John Cooper Works Hatch

RM313,888

RM302,831.50

-RM11,056.50

MINI John Cooper Works GP

RM388,888

RM377,470.90

-RM11,417.10

MINI Cooper SE 3 Door

RM225,888

RM218,380.78

-RM7,507.22

MINI Cooper S Clubman

RM298,888

RM287,725.61

-RM11,162.39

MINI JCW Clubman 306HP

RM358,888

RM345,497.82

-RM13,390.18

MINI Countryman Pure 2019

RM228,888

RM221,079.82

-RM7,808.18

MINI Countryman Pure 2020

RM228,888

RM220,741.14

-RM8,146.86

MINI Countryman Sports 2019

RM248,888

RM239,811.15

-RM9,076.85

MINI Countryman Sports 2020

RM248,888

RM239,280.38

-RM9,607.62

MINI Countryman Blackheath

RM253,888

RM244,280.38

-RM9,607.62

MINI Countryman PHEV Wired 2019

RM268,888

RM258,870.53

-RM10,017.47

MINI JCW Countryman 306HP

RM378,888

RM364,890.83

-RM13,997.17


iCarData: The Best Time To Buy/Sell A 2014 (RM) Honda CR-V 2.0L AWD

The Malaysian Automotive Association (MAA) recently revised its 2020 Total Industry Volume (TIV) forecast to 400,000 units from 607,000 previously. The 400,000 units forecast would represent a 34% contraction from 2019’s 604,287 units. This will be the first time in 13 years (last 2007) that Malaysia’s TIV failed to surpass the 500k mark.

Imagine for a second what happens to your business if 34 percent of its earnings are slashed in a matter of months. As you might surmise, the COVID-19 pandemic has hit the automotive industry very hard. Whether it be halting of production operations or fractured supply chains due to limited movement of goods, even Toyota has contended that the far-reaching, long-term damage is not yet known at this point.

However, the automotive industry as a whole is immensely robust, and there is evidence to support that automakers will bounce back in 2021. For now, though, there might be a small shift of tides with regard to consumer spending.  We have seen this before – in times of economic contraction, buyers tend to gravitate back to mass-selling brands, instead of premium badges, and new car purchases are delayed in favour of getting a reliable used vehicle until times are better, at which point, they go buy a fancier set of wheels.

In either case, the Honda CR-V should rank very highly on many buyer’s wishlists, now in its 5th-generation, spanning 25 years, the CR-V is the king of the hill when people want a reliable, spacious, and comfortable SUV for the family. The current RW-generation brings with it edgy design, class-leading interior space, and for the first time, turbocharged ‘Earth Dreams’ 1.5L engines for better torque and fuel economy numbers.

The fifth-generation CR-V has been a hit since its introduction in 2017

The 4th-generation ‘RM’ before it, built on the success of the 3rd-generation ‘RE’ with substantial growth in interior space, perceived value and quality, and a fresh design language.

Overview

The ‘RM’ we will be reporting on today, was first launched in 2013 and had a relatively short lifespan, of just over four years before being replaced in 2017.

Here’s a quick rundown of the model’s presence in the Malaysian market:

March 2013 – Fourth Generation ‘RM’ CR-V launched. One variant, 2.0-litre i-VTEC (150 PS/ 190Nm) AWD priced at RM148,800.

June 2013 – Second variant launched, 2.4L i-VTEC (190PS/222Nm) AWD launched at RM169,900.

January 2015 – Facelifted Honda CR-V ‘RM’ launched. New 2.0L 2WD variant (RM139,800), 2.0L 4WD (RM150,800),  and 2.4L 4WD (RM169,800). ‘Solid Wing’ face design first introduced.

January 2016 – CR-V 2.0L 2WD offered with leather seats at RM142,900 (Post GST)

July 2017 – All-New ‘RW’ Honda CR-V launched. Priced from RM142k to RM168k.

Now in 2020, having run its complete sales cycle, offers us an opportune time to analyse how the ‘RM’ CR-V has fared on the used-market, and using the resources of our in-house developed iCarData, track the ebb and flow of its depreciation across the last six years.

iCarData's
 algorithm-based data takes the guesswork out of vehicle depreciation using data points from across virtually the entire market - tracked down to granular levels to include vehicle variant and geographical location. This offers valuable fiscal advice on the best timing to make that all-important purchase or sale decision.

We have covered other popular models in this segment, such as the
(NCP150) Toyota Vios
 and the
(GM6) Honda City
.

Specification of the 2014 (RM) Honda CR-V 2.0L i-VTEC AWD

Engine: 2.0-litre (R20A) inline-four Petrol

Power: 155 PS @ 6,500 rpm

Torque: 190 Nm @ 4,300 rpm

Transmission: 5-speed automatic, All-wheel drive

Safety: Four airbags, ABS with EBD, Brake Assist, Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA), Traction Control, Hill-Start Assist, SOFIX anchor points

Origin: Locally assembled in Pegoh, Melaka

Price: RM148,800 – March 2013 launch (OTR with insurance)

We have taken into account the following to keep our numbers accurate and representative.

Vehicle variant: (RM) Honda CR-V 2.0L i-VTEC AWD), delivered between March and December 2013.

Depreciation is calculated using the original list price of RM148,800.

Depreciation percentage does not take into account special/ seasonal offers or rebates on the original selling price.

The singular 2013 2.0L i-VTEC AWD variant is used for comparison for its conclusive spread of data points across the market.

Notwithstanding that, depreciation for other variants may differ, in particular the 2.0L 2WD variant launched in 2015.

Based on ICarData, here's the summarized data for depreciation:

And the graphical analysis below:

Blue line: Average selling price (RM) by year

Grey line: Cumulative depreciation (RM) by year

Orange line: Retained value percentage by year

From the depreciation graph, we can clearly see the CR-V has a superbly organic rate of depreciation, pretty much over the entire six-year measured period. In all years except 2017, yearly depreciation is no higher than 10 percent which is as close to ideal as any vehicle can get. It is apparent that the CR-V’s ability to combine practicality, reliability and style ensures market demand is always strong and used prices, stable.

The 2017 year depreciation, amounting to over 14 percent (circa RM20k) could be caused by one singular factor, and that’s the introduction of the 5th-generation ‘RW’ model. All-new model changes will almost certainly affect the demand of older generation vehicles, more so in this case because the ‘RM’ CR-V prices were still hovering at around RM125k as the new model hit showrooms. Hence, it’s quite certain that used prices would have been slashed on the account of the all-new model being priced some RM30k higher.

With that said, elsewhere, the ‘RM’ CR-V holds firm even after 4-5 years of ownership. Another poignant point to consider is the robustness of the CR-V residual value even in the face of competitor model launches. In most cases, we have seen dips in used prices when a competitor model is introduced, such as the case of the BMW 3 Series, when the competing C-Class is introduced.

There is little price variation reflected in the CR-V’s used prices despite the introduction of the CR-Vs’ main competitor, the CX-5 which had its (KE-generation) model introduction in 2012, and the relevant facelift model launched in 2015. The CR-V’s prices also don’t flinch with regard to the Nissan X-Trail, another commendable family SUV.

The graph also quite easily illustrates when an existing owner should sell his/her ‘RM’ CR-V, which is in the sixth year, as the cumulative depreciation approaches that of retained value. At around 50 percent of the original price of the car. It wouldn’t be a bad time for a prospective buyer to pick up an ‘RM’ CR-V in this year too, as prices are half that of a new car, but still relatively new given most of them are just now touching their sixth-year of service.

However, it would be also wise for buyers to pick up CR-V’s just as they enter that fifth year of service as it gives them better financing options, and if even newer (at say 4 years old), some tenure left with the manufacturer warranty still in place.

In any case, the CR-V is an all-star when it comes to a do it all vehicle for the whole family, and as such is one of the finest cars to pick from on the used car market.

For some great deals on the (RM) Honda CR-V, click
here
.

If you're looking to sell your Honda CR-V, we have two solutions for you too. List in on carlist.my or better still use
Carlist Bid
 where we remove all the hassle of selling your car for you as you get searching for your next upgrade.

Which make/ model would you like us to research next? Let us know in the comments.


Geely Wants To Make EVs Great Again With Quick Battery Swaps

Geely is looking to set up 5,000 battery swapping stations for
their electric vehicles
 by 2025. Geely Technology Group, a subsidiary of Geely Holdings, showcased new battery swapping technology behind E-Energee, its announced battery swapping service, at the 2021 Wuzhen Internet Conference.

According to Geely, E-Energee battery swapping stations enable the EV batteries to be exchanged for a one that's fully charged in under 1 minute (59 seconds, they say) – meaning the occupants won't even need to exit the vehicle. The current E-Energee service, which will be set up mostly within China, is mainly being airmed at commericial and mobility fleets that work on tight schedules, but could open the service to regular EV drivers in the future.

Geely says this battery swapping tech has been in the works since 2017. The initial research and development team quickly ballooned to over 1,000 people when internal interest grew with hundreds of patents pending for both the service and the
supporting vehicle architectures
.

Xin Guobin, the vice-minister of the Chinese Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT), is said to have announced that MIIT will continue to vigorously pursue the construction of infrastructure for fast EV charging and rapid battery replacement. He also encouraged companies to develop and test vehicles with replaceable batteries.

Far from being the only horse in this race, EV-making Nio is also aggressively pursuing battery replacement tech, having completed an experimental test route in 2019. With an expanding network of battery replacement stations in south China, they have since April moved on to revealing its infrastructure plans for Northern China.

Meanwhile, the company presented its newest iteration of battery-swapping tech (and station) with reforming oil giant Sinopec. Similar to Geely, Nio states it wants to have 5000 battery swapping stations ready for operation in China by 2025, but is also bringing it to Europe starting with
EV-loving Norway
 having received EU certification earlier this year.


SPYSHOT: Suzuki Swift Sport 2021 Ditemui Di Parkir Naza Automall

Melalui gambar kiriman seorang pembaca bermata tajam kepada kami,
Suzuki Swift Sport 2021
 yang bakal dilancarkan tidak lama lagi telah dijumpai di kawasan parkir kereta Naza Automall di Petaling Jaya.

Nampak gayanya,
Suzuki Swift
 Sport (SSS) yang bakal diperkenalkan dalam pasaran Malaysia hadir dengan enjin 1.4L dengan pengecas turbo empat silinder Boosterjet (K14C) yang mampu menjana kuasa 138hp dan 230Nm tork. Enjin ini merupakan enjin yang sama digunakan pada Suzuki Vitara.

Sekiranya andaian kami tentang enjin yang bakal hadir dengan Suzuki Swift Sport 2021 ini tepat, enjin model yang telah diperkenalkan di Frankfurt pada tahun 2017 ini tidaklah jauh begitu hebat berbanding enjin sebelumnya, M16A berdasarkan kuasa kuda yang ditawarkan. Enjin M16A menghasilkan 134hp, namun dari segi tork, enjin K14C ini menerima galakan tork tambahan 70Nm berbanding enjin M16A yang dulu.

Tambahan pula, model yang diperkenalkan di Frankfurt ini juga lebih ringan 70 kg daripada model sebelumnya, secara tidak langsung memberikan Suzuki Swift Sport ratio tork-ke-enjin kira-kira 4.2 kg/Nm.

Setakat ini, jenis transmisi yang bakal hadir dengan model Suzuki ini masih lagi belum diketahui. Namun kereta ini ditawarkan sama ada dalam bentuk 6-kelajuan manual ataupun automatik. Tapi sayangnya, transmisi automatik kelihatan seperti pilihan yang lebih ideal buat pasaran Malaysia. Tapi tak mustahil dua-duanya akan ditawarkan di Malaysia.

Bagi spesifikasi model ini berdasarkan pasaran luar, kita boleh jangka bahawa Suzuki Swift Sport 2021 bakal hadir dengan ciri-ciri keselamatan seperti Dual Sensor Brake Support (DSBS), Lane Departure Warning, Active Cruise Control, Weaving Alert Function serta High Beam Assist.

Kali terakhir model ini dilancarkan di Malaysia adalah pada tahun 2013. Ketika itu, model ini dijual dengan harga RM97,888 bagi varian manual serta RM102,888 bagi transmisi CVT. Kalau masa 2013 pun harga Swift dah macam itu, jangan harap lah Swift Sport baharu ini bakal dijual dengan harga murah!

For more latest car news, reviews, car buying guides and videos visit us at Carlist.my
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2021 Hyundai Kona Electric Launched - Three Variants - From RM149,888

Hyundai Sime Darby Motors has today launched the 2021 Hyundai Kona Electric. It will be available in three variants: Lite, Plus and Max. Prices will start from
RM149,888
 and top off at
RM199,888
.

Bagging the title of the most affordable new BEV for 2021, the Hyundai Kona Electric is poised to contribute a bigger footprint in the Malaysian automotive scene with its very attractive pricing. Already Hyundai has had bookings for more than 50% of the first order of 70 units, with most customers opting for the range-topping Max variant. Deliveries will begin in February 2022.

Variants

As mentioned above three variants will be made available with the Lite and Plus variants sharing the smaller 39.2 kWh battery whilst the range-topper Max gets the beefier 64 kWh battery.

Specifications

We outline all three variants and their offerings for you in a detailed table below:

Lite

Plus

Max

Battery

39.2 kWh

39.2 kWh

64 kWh

Max Power

136 PS

136 PS

204 PS

Max Torque

395 Nm

395 Nm

395 Nm

Max Speed

(electronically limited)

155 km/h

155 km/h

167 km/h

0-100 km/h

9.9 seconds

9.9 seconds

7.9 seconds

Drive System

Single Speed

Reduction Gear

Single Speed

Reduction Gear

Single Speed

Reduction Gear

Range (WLTP)

305 km

305 km

484 km

Charging Type

Type 2 (AC) & CCS2 (DC)

Type 2 (AC) & CCS2 (DC)

Type 2 (AC) & CCS2 (DC)

Hyundai SmartSense

LKA, Lane Following Assist (LFA), Leading Vehicle Departure Alert (LVDA), Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA) - for vehicle/ pedestrian, HBA, Driver Attention Warning (DAW), Rear Occupant Alert (ROA)

Blind-spot Collision-Avoidance Assist (BCA), Rear Cross Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist (RCCA), LKA, LFA, LVDA, Smart Cruise Control with Stop & Go (SCC w S/G), FCA - for vehicle/ pedestrian/ cyclist, HBA, DAW, ROA, Safe Exit Alert (SEA)

BCA, RCCA, LKA, LFA, LVDA, SCC w S/G), FCA - for vehicle/ pedestrian/ cyclist, HBA, DAW, ROA, SEA

Infotainment

8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto

8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto

8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto

Boot space

332 litres

332 litres

332 litres

Price

RM149,888

RM169,888

RM199,888

Charging Time

Charging time for the 39.2 kWh variant of the 2021 Kona Electric is:

a. OBC 7.2 kW (AC) - 6.5 hours (only applicable to the Lite variant)

b. OBC 11 kW (AC) - 4.5 hours

c. 50 kW (DC) - 60 minutes

whereas charging times for the 64 kWh battery variant is:

a. OBC 11 kW (AC) - 7.5 hours

b. 50 kW (DC) - 90 minutes

Additional features

All three variants of the 2021 Hyundai Kona Electric will come with remote start which will come in handy for when you'd like to cool down your interior before stepping into the car. A Qi-enabled wireless smartphone charger will also come standard across all variants but only the Plus and Max variants will benefit from a heads-up display.

A 10.25-inch digital cluster will display all driver required information such as range, speed, and energy flow. Regenerative braking is handled through paddle shifters on either side of the steering wheel. Four drive modes will be made available across the range; Eco, Eco+, Comfort and Sport.

All three variants will come with 17-inch wheels shod with 215/55 size tyres.

Safety & Security

Besides the Hyundai SmartSense suite of safety features already listed above all three variants of the 2021 Kona Electric will come with:

6 airbags

ABS, ESC, VSM, BAS, TCS

Hill-Start Assist

Parking Assist System - front and rear

Seat Belt Reminder - 5 (both front and rear seats)

ISOFIX - 2 (rear passenger)

Colours

There will be a total of nine exterior colours offered across the three variants;

Dive in Jeju

Dark Knight

Atlas White

Ignite Red

Cyber Gray Metallic

Pulse Red Pearl

Galactic Gray

Surfy Blue Metallic

Jungle Green

All colour variants will be two-tone coming with a black roof that further extends down along the A-pillar, B-pillar and C-pillars.

On the interior, customers will be able to choose from Oceanids Black or Light Shale Gray.

Warranty

Hyundai Sime Darby Motors is offering a battery warranty of 8 years or 160,000 km whichever comes first. The vehicle will come with a 2-year warranty, 50,000 km warranty as standard.

Extra information

You might notice that the 2021 Hyundai Kona Electric has a smaller boot space than the conventional Hyundai Kona, exactly 42 litres to be precise. This is due to the fact that the Kona Electric has a multi-link rear suspension that has taken up the extra space to accommodate. Hyundai informs us that this will maximize stability during accelerated cornering. For comparison, the rear suspension on the Kona 1.6 Turbo uses a torsion beam.

The ground clearance for the Kona Electric is also 10mm lesser at 160mm than its ICE sibling due to the battery pack that sits lower to the ground. It remains to be been how the Kona Electric will manage high bumps or curbs that Malaysian roads are notorious for.

Road tax

The road tax for all three variants of the 2021 Hyundai Kona Electric will be the same due to JPJ regulations. All three variants of the Kona Electric on sale will be using the same motor, but both the Lite and Plus variants will have the motors downtuned, producing 100 kW from the 150 kW that is on the Max. Due to the fact that it is the same motor, sharing the same part number, JPJ classifies it as producing 150 kW, making no concessions for downtuning or part-sharing among variants. The estimated road tax for the Hyundai Kona Electric will be RM1024 for an output of 150 kW (whereas the estimated road tax for a 100 kW output would have been RM274).

*The above is an estimated calculation for road tax provided to us by Hyundai Malaysia because calculating
EV road tax in Malaysia
 is a minefield and one too complex for my simple mind.

The above will be a moot point however if the EV proposals tabled under
Budget 2022
 come to fruition.

Price

Hyundai Kona Electric Lite:
RM149,888

Hyundai Kona Electric Plus:
RM169,888

Hyundai Kona Electric Max:
RM199,888

All prices are OTR without insurance but with the SST discounts.


8 Buah Proton Satria GTi Direstorasi Untuk Direbut – Berharga RM45k Setiap Satu

Nak cari kereta klasik yang masih ‘dara’ tanpa diubah suai bukanlah mudah, tapi jika anda mahukan
Proton Satria GTi
 yang telah direstorasi mengikut stok keluaran kilang, ada 8 buah untuk anda rebut!

Karrus Automotive, sebuah pengedar kereta terpakai yang terletak di Glenmarie, Shah Alam, kini menawarkan 8 unit Proton Satria GTi yang dijual dengan harga RM45,000 bagi setiap satu.

Sebelum ini, perniagaan Karrus hanya berpaksikan kereta-kereta sports dan mewah dari luar negara. Namun kini, syarikat tersebut telah menubuhkan divisi khas bernama Karrus Classic bagi menjual model-model klasik dan moden klasik tak kira dari mana sekalipun.

Projek restorasi Satria GTi ini bermula ketika tempoh Perintah Kawalan Pergerakan (PKP) tahun lalu. Pada awalnya mereka membeli sebuah unit di Selangor, namun apabila mereka cuba mendapatkan
alat-alat ganti
 asal kereta tersebut, syarikat ini turut memperolehi maklumat berkenaan unit Satria GTi lain yang turut mahu dijual.

Walau bagaimanapun, Karrus hanya membeli unit yang hampir-hampir menyamai unit keluaran kilang, bukanlah unit yang sudah diubahsuai. Kelapan-lapan unit Satria GTi yang dijual ini telah dibeli dari merata negeri di Malaysia seperti Pulau Pinang, Johor dan Kelantan.

Kesemua unit tersebut dikhabarkan telah menerima penambahbaikan pada komponen bahagian luaran seperti cat badan, lampu, dan kemasan lain serta emblem asal yang baharu. Oleh kerana Satria GTi menerima talaan pengendalian terus dari Lotus, kereta tersebut turut hadir bersama logo Lotus.

Kit badan yang ada pada Satria GTi ini menampilkan bampar hadapan dan belakang yang lebih agresif, overfender dengan rivet diserlahkan, spoiler bumbung lebih besar, dua tip ekzos berbentuk empat-segi, serta rim aloi 16-inci pelbagai jejari. Malah, reka bentuk Satria GTi ini masih kelihatan seksi dan menarik pada waktu ini meskipun kenderaan itu dihasilkan pada 23 tahun lalu.

Di bahagian dalam, bahagian yang sudah rosak atau lama telah ditukar dan dibersihkan semula seperti baharu. Tempat duduk Recaro Enjoy seperti Wira Tiang Gol juga telah diperbaiki semula. Walau bagaimanapun, model ini tidak menerima stereng dan tombol gear daripada Momo.

Bahagian mekanikal kereta ini turut diperiksa dan ujian jalan raya sejauh 100 km telah dilakukan bagi memastikan kereta berada dalam keadaan baik dan sedia untuk dijual kepada pemilik baharu. Satria GTi ini menggunakan enjin 4G93P 1.8 liter DOHC yang mampu menjana 140 PS/ 167 Nm serta digandingkan dengan kotak gear manual lima-kelajuan.

Enjin tersebut merupakan enjin yang sama yang boleh dijumpai pada Mitsubishi Lancer GSR, namun tanpa turbo. Walau bagaimanapun, kereta ini telah dibawa ke England untuk menerima talaan sepenuhnya daripada jurutera
Lotus
 untuk menjalani penambahbaikan pada sistem suspensi serta kawalan power sterengnya menjadikan Satria GTi jauh lebih menyerlah daripada adik beradiknya. Selain itu, model ini juga mampu memecut dari 0-60 km/j dengan 8.5 saat, menjadikannya antara kereta terlaju ciptaan
Proton
 pada waktu itu.

Meskipun Satria GTi merupakan kereta lama, namun auranya masih berbisa. Buktinya, kereta ini masih menjadi buruan sang pencuri dan pencinta kereta. Jika anda berminat untuk mendapatkan sebuah Satria GTi yang telah direstorasi ini, jangan terkejut dengan harga yang ditawarkan meskipun ia kelihatan sedikit mahal.

Ini kerana jentera ini masih mempunyai nilai pasaran yang tinggi ekoran penghasilannya yang terhad. Malah kereta ini juga dikatakan sesuai untuk dibawa ke litar perlumbaan, membuktikan bahawa prestasi kereta ini yang dibangunkan oleh Proton bersama Lotus berpuluh tahun dahulu masih lagi berbisa.

Walau bagaimanapun, sesetengah pengguna media sosial ada mengatakan bahawa syarikat insurans hanya akan memberi perlindungan sehingga RM5,000 sahaja ke atas kereta ini. Namun Karrus berkata mereka boleh membantu pelanggan mendapatkan perlindungan insurans yang lebih tinggi, malah setara dengan harga RM45,000 di bawah skim insuran
kereta klasik
.

Oleh kerana model ini direstorasi mengikut spesifikasi kilang, ia pasti tiada masalah untuk diluluskan oleh syarikat insurans. Sekiranya kereta klasik tersebut telah diubahsuai, permohonan perlindungan di bawah skim insurans kereta klasik tidak akan diluluskan oleh syarikat insurans.

*Kredit foto: Karrus Classics


Why The Toyota Gazoo Racing Vios Challenge Is Important, For Now and The Future

With the first leg of the Vios Challenge over and done with, it’s time for a little bit of reflection. We’re big fans of the street circuit concept, a welcome change from Sepang International Circuit being the sole venue for every major motorsport event, and the crowds that the event drew would definitely be an indication of success. But some people may be wondering what the point of all this is, and the truth is that the Vios Challenge is a lot more important than you would think.
Through the 1980s, the Malaysian motorsports scene was world-class- and this was without having a massive Formula One track to run on. The Malaysian rally scene was booming, Batu Tiga was bustling quite nearly every weekend, and there were works teams actively taking part as well. There were rallies that stretched across the Peninsular, oddly enough known as ‘economy runs’, but just as contested as any other motorsport you would see. Penang Island had a GP circuit as well, running through the streets of Georgetown. The competition was fierce, and crowds flocked to watch. Even privateers joined just for the fun of it, while the professionals were busy fighting it out for top spot.
But all of this changed, drastically, and for a variety of reasons: recession after recession forced people to cut spending, massive inflation and currency depreciation made cars unattainable for most, and drivers got tired of the rampant cheating and politics involved in the motorsports scene. The introduction of Sepang International Circuit, despite putting Malaysia on the map as a Formula One venue, turned out to hurt the local motorsports scene more than help it.
In the process, the government decided to shutter the Batu Tiga track, which made Sepang International Circuit one of the few places that people could take their cars to track or hold racing events- and Sepang happened to be a lot more expensive to run than Batu Tiga. A track the size of Batu Tiga is still really important and relevant for grassroots and mid-level motorsports, and since Batu Tiga shut down we haven’t had a suitable replacement.
We’ve seen a few solid efforts at reviving the motorsports scene since then. Both the Sepang 1000 Kilometer Race and the Merdeka Millennium Endurance Race are examples of this, but in more recent years they have seen less and less attendance, as well as less participation. They are also more one-off events than race series, which make them a lot less interesting to follow. Perhaps the best local series out there now is MSF, headed up by Adian Yein and intentionally designed to keep the racing exciting without bankrupting participants or tying them up in red tape with restrictive regulations.
And yet it’s still difficult to get people to attend, even when spectating is free. Perhaps it’s because Sepang International Circuit is a little far out, but that has never stopped people from making the pilgrimage during Formula One. One line of reasoning would be that most people can’t associate with the cars that they see racing, and unless they’re die-hard fans they’re not likely to get excited about it. But that’s where the Vios Challenge comes in- at least, in spirit.
When you have largely standard production cars racing around a circuit, it’s easy for spectators to identify and relate to them- sort of how NASCAR teams try to make their cars look like production cars when they are anything but. The Toyota Vios is a car that most Malaysians will probably have in their life, either through ownership or six degrees of separation; that is to say that most Malaysians will know somebody who owns a Vios.
The celebrities are also to thank in large part for drawing the crowds to Batu Kawan over the last weekend. A large proportion of those attending were there to see their idols rather than the racing itself, but cross promotion is a great way to market the idea of racing and to get people interested. Even if only a percentage of those who attended will actually take an interest in motorsport later on in their lives, it’s a whole lot better than nothing.
There are people out there who believe that racing needs to be with crazy high-horsepower cars running super sticky slick tyres and decked out in massive aero. That’s not really true; racing can come in many forms, but perhaps the most important thing is that there is a level playing field. Cup-style series are perfect for this as the cars are regulated and modifications are heavily controlled- meaning that everyone starts from the same point and has the same tools available.
It’s arguable that lower powered cars can also create more exciting racing, as it gives drivers more opportunities and time to make manoeuvres and try different tactics to get past their opponents. But even if you aren’t convinced, you need only look at the field of drivers: top-tier Malaysian drivers like Tengku Djan, Mark Darwin, and Kenneth Koh are all competing in this series. Unfortunately the layout of the Batu Kawan track and an imposed “no contact” rule made overtaking nearly impossible, but hopefully this is rectified in the coming rounds.
We won’t say that the first leg of the Vios Challenge was entirely flawless, but it was a learning experience and a great attempt by Toyota Gazoo Racing. The combination of the race and other attractions like drift demonstrations and the AE86 parade made for a good weekend-long event. With enough luck and work, the upcoming legs will be a little smoother- both for those attending and those competing. We can hardly wait for the next round.
It’s important to note that Toyota doesn’t really profit from these events. Sure, each Vios Challenge car costs around RM 90,000- but that’s no different from a regular Vios you can buy out of a showroom. To transport and set up the crash barriers alone during the Batu Kawan race would run them around RM 1.8 million. It’s not difficult to see how much they are investing in a series with nearly no returns, and for that they deserve our respect and support. No other manufacturer is willing to go to the lengths that Toyota has in support of racing.
If you want to see motorsports making a big return in Malaysia, you have to be the change you want to see. Up north in Thailand, there is a different motorsport event nearly every weekend of the year, and they draw crowds in massive numbers. There’s no reason we can’t do the same, but it’ll take efforts on both ends to make it happen. If the Vios Challenge becomes truly successful, with enough luck we can have more legs and field more cars, or even spur other organizers to have their own race series as well. But more importantly, the Vios Challenge could be the way to make cars fun again.
We lament the death of the “fun-to-drive” car, but we’ve never really addressed the root of the problem: the next generation of buyers isn’t interested in “fun-to-drive”, let alone driving at all. Manufacturers aren’t going to develop and produce cars that won’t sell in large enough quantities to justify the cost. To bring back the driver’s car, you first need to show people that driving can be more than a point-A-to-point-B affair- that it can be a source of joy. And the Vios Challenge definitely helps with this, with bringing back motorsports, and hopefully with making fun-to-drive a quality that people will look for in a car.


SPYSHOTS: All-New 2016 Toyota Fortuner Revealed Ahead Of 17 July Debut

The all-new 2016
Toyota Fortuner
 is scheduled to make its global debut on 17 July but thanks to these spyshots, it looks like we now know exactly what the body-on-frame SUV looks like completely undisguised.
Judging from these spyshots taken in Thailand which was posted by a Toyota spare parts dealer, the Fortuner closely follows many of the
previously leaked images
 that have made their way onto the internet.
At the front, the headlamps have been redesigned to be slimmer. The chromed grill is now framed within two chrome strips running down from the headlamps. The fog lamp enclosures also feature chrome surrounds.
Along the side, the third-row windows are now smaller and follows that of
another leaked image that showed the Fortuner’s side profile recently
. The alloy wheels resemble of that found on the
all-new Toyota Hilux
. Meanwhile, the rear sees a thicker chromed plate that links the two slimmer tail lights with the model name on it.
The next-generation Toyota Fortuner adopts the Hilux’s newly-developed FIRM (Frame with Integrated Rigidity Mechanism) platform by Toyota and is expected to come with the
new range of Toyota diesel engines as well
. Elsewhere, expect some of the Hilux's safety packages to be carried over into the new Fortuner as well.
Meanwhile, the cabin isn't a mirror-copy of the Hilux's, with noticeable differences clearly seen. As you can see, two pieces of trim (which looks to be upholstered in cream leather) frame the infotainment system and climate control, both of which rests below the repositioned air-conditioning vents.
Another noticeable change is the lack of a differential mode selector which could be relocated or repackaged into a rotating dial selector instead. Elsewhere, the steering wheel follows that of current Toyota models including the instrument cluster which isn't a huge surprise. With leather seats and tweeters near the side mirrors, this could be a high-spec model although that remains unconfirmed.
For those curious what the key fob looks like, here it is, looking very much like those that come with newer Toyota models.
More details will be unveiled when the all-new 2016
Toyota Fortuner
 is revealed on 17 July 2015. Until then, how do you like the way it looks?


Cycle & Carriage Bintang Celebrates CNY and 120-Year Anniversary In Style

Mercedes-Benz dealer Cycle & Carriage Bintang (CCB) recently celebrated Chinese New Year and its 120th anniversary with a series of customer events that brought together Mercedes-Benz customers across the country.
The Lunar New Year festivities were held in dealer facilities in Kuala Lumpur, Johor Bahru, and Penang. Guests were treated to enjoyable evenings of exquisite dining and entertainment, including live performances by songstress Miss Tan Soo Sze and the DAMA Quintet. Kuala Lumpur guests were also tickled by comedic entertainer, Phua Chu Kang.
Cycle & Carriage Bintang CEO, Wilfrid Foo said, “The heart of our business has always been about creating exceptional journeys for people – our customers, partners, and employees. We are driven to deliver a seamless ownership journey for fans of the Mercedes-Benz brand, delivering only the Best Customer Experience. We have withstood the test of time for 120 years, which is made possible with the support that we have received."
Founded in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia in 1899, Cycle & Carriage has deep roots in the local community across generations. In 1951, Cycle & Carriage was the first automotive dealer awarded the Mercedes-Benz franchise in Southeast Asia.
In the coming months CCB will continue to improve and update its retail and aftersales operations across four of its thirteen nationwide locations: in Mutiara Damansara, Johor Bahru, Ipoh, and Alor Setar.


CUEPACS Wants Government-Employed Drivers Exempted From Certain Traffic Rules

The union for public and civil servant employees is asking for government-employed drivers to be exempted from JPJ’s KEJARA demerit points system and the upcoming Automated Awareness Safety System (AWAS) speed cameras, formerly known as AES.
According a report by the News Straits Times quoting Datuk Azih Muda, the president of Congress of Unions of Employees in the Public and Civil Services (CUEPACS), the union wants the government to consider granting immunity to some 50,000 drivers currently hired by 700 ministries and government agencies.
"Sometimes or most of the time they are forced to beat the speed limit for the sake of carrying out their duties. We feel it isn't right for them to be punished and have their licence suspended," he told the News Straits Times after concluding a meeting with JPJ’s director-general Datuk Nadzri Siron today.
The report also went to say that Azih did stress that CUEPACS is not against the implementation of AWAS, but is appealing to the government to consider exemptions for civil servants who are hired as drivers.
Earlier reports have indicated that the controversial AES speed camera system will soon be merged with the KEJARA demerit point system, and will be known as AWAS. Under the KEJARA system, drivers who accumulate 60 demerit points will have their driving licence revoked.


Porsche Taycan Fighter, Polestar 5 Unveiled At Goodwood

Polestar 5 development prototype car unveiled at Goodwood Festival of Speed, sights on the Porsche Taycan.

In early 2020, Polestar
announced the development of their Precept concept
, a fully electric four-door vehicle that could compete with the Porsche Taycan.

Two years down the road, Volvo's electric spin-off has finally unveiled a prototype of the performance EV called the Polestar 5, which according to Polestar, will go into production by 2024.

The Polestar 5 development prototype car which made its debut at the 2022 Goodwood Festival of Speed is fully camouflaged and has provisional lights, which explains why it's equipped with halogens instead of futuristic LEDs.

Described as a
"high-performance electric 4-door GT"
 the Polestar 5 will feature a new top-of-the-line electric powertrain still under development in Sweden. Nonetheless, Polestar has dropped some hints at what the electric powertrain is capable of.

Built on an 800-volt architecture, the Polestar 5 will pack a dual-motor powertrain with a targeted output of
884 PS
 and
900 Nm
 of torque.

No performance figures have yet to be unveiled, but they should be impressive as the Polestar 5 will feature a unique aluminium chassis that will help lower the vehicle's overall weight and deliver great driving dynamics to match its desirable design. The targeted range is
600 kilometers
.

Thanks to the 800-volt architecture, the intended 103kWh battery pack should be able to charge to 80% in approximately 20 minutes.

The Polestar 5 will be completely revealed by the end of 2023, with the
production version planned
 for a launch in 2024.


Honda Malaysia Forecasts 2019 TIV At 580,000 – Targets 95,000 Units Sales

Honda Malaysia has forecasted that the total industry volume (TIV) for 2019 at 580,000 units, less than the Malaysian Automotive Association’s (MAA) forecast of 600,000 units.
In addition to that, Honda Malaysia has set their sales target for this year at 95,000 units, in-line with the lower TIV forecast. Last year, the company sold 102,282 units, a slight decrease of 6.6% from the 2017 (109,511 units).
Looking closer into Honda Malaysia’s sales numbers, 32% of the figure was contributed by the City, making it the biggest contributor. Following closer behind are the Civic and CR-V, contributing 16% and 13%, respectively. The HR-V however, was kept at the sidelines for most of the second half of 2018, as delays in obtaining government approval for prices pushed deliveries of the HR-V facelift to this year.
As for after-sales, Honda Malaysia also recorded an 11% growth in 2018 service intake against 2017, making it the highest after-sales service intake in the company’s history. In addition to that, the company also witnessed a 25 percent increase in sales of Honda Genuine Parts.


Vocal Consumer Association Urges The Introduction Of The Lemon Law In Malaysia

In a statement released by Consumers’ Association of Penang (CAP), purchasers of vehicles which seem to have unsolvable technical issues should be given better consumer protection from the sellers.
CAP is urging the government to
implement the Lemon Law
, which is a remedy for purchasers of consumer products, particularly motorized vehicles that repeatedly fail to meet the standards of quality and performance.
CAP President, S.M. Mohamed Idris said, ”We have received varied complaints from consumers on various car defects over the years. Many letters and reminders had been written to the car dealers and relevant government agencies but we either received denials, evasive replies, or slow response.”
The number of defective new cars consumers are holding on with no avenue for legal redress is worrying, he added.
Based on grouses that the CAP has received, there are cases of vehicles lying in authorized workshops for months, even half a year and beyond, without any diagnosis.
Using the Lemon Law in Singapore as an example, a consumer with a defective product has a number of options:
Claim for a defective product purchased within six months
Get the defective product repaired or replaced within a reasonable time at the seller’s cost
Ask for a price reduction while keeping the product
Return the product for a refund if the seller fails to repair
Mr S.M. Mohamed said Malaysia can do the same with its Consumer Protection Act 1999. The CAP also added that the government should introduce the Lemon Law to ensure that automakers be held responsible for their defective products and to repair the vehicle satisfactorily as required by the law.


Of Comebacks And Underdogs - TGR Vios Challenge Season 2 Finale

For the first time in two seasons, the Toyota Gazoo Racing Vios Challenge made its way to Sepang over the course of last weekend to hold its final race on the world-renowned Formula 1 grade circuit. A stark difference from the tight street circuits of the races before, this new experience made for some exciting racing and gave drivers more room for expression. It levelled the playing field in certain regards, as newer drivers to the series would not be at a disadvantage when it comes to course knowledge.
The Promotional Class saw the hardest fighting in terms of points. Diana Danielle took second place in Race 1, which was enough to give her enough points to take the championship spot with 100 points. As hard as Aiman Tino and Akim Ahmad fought, they could not close the gap in points, and finished the season with 94 points and 92 points respectively. Newcomer Nabil Ahmad only managed to collect 8 points over the race weekend, finishing with a total of 80 points for the championship in fourth position.
Sporting Class was heavily contested as well, with Brendon Lim coming from way down in terms of points, collecting 31 across two races for an overall win with 86 points. In second place and just one point away was Eric Yong, who managed to pick up a hard-fought 27 points. Coming in third with 81 points was the controversial Kenneth Koh - a driver known for his aggressive rally-honed style - with 25 points for the final round.
Hayden Haikal, the youngest in the field at just 16 years old, also managed an impressive 30 points - and while that wasn't enough to get him to the podium, it was a valiant effort and a sign that his extra-curricular race efforts in various touring car series have paid off. Celebrities Shawn Lee and Shukri Yahya came 9th and 13th respectively, which is still noteworthy considering neither have had any competitive race experience prior to this season.
But perhaps the most intriguing to watch was the Super Sporting class. Both Freddie Ang and Alif Hamdan had seen a lot of bad luck over the last few rounds of the Vios Challenge, but last weekend was their time to shine. Both drivers managed to collect 28 points each - the highest combined across two races for the class - and while they didn't manage to take the championship, they have definitely set the stage for a strong fight in the coming season of racing.
In terms of points, Boy Wong managed to build enough of a lead through the season that he could race conservatively this round and still manage to take the win with 95 points. William Ho came second overall with 86 points, fighting hard to collect 27 points over the weekend. Third place went to Brendan Paul Anthony with 73 points, despite his bad luck over the race weekend and collecting just 3 points across two races.


New Toyota Vios coming soon? 'Defy' teaser by UMW Toyota

Our hearts and ears are still ringing from the
 five Toyota GR car launches
 last week, and UWW Toyota has already released a new teaser of yet another new model. Will this be the new
2023 Toyota Vios
?

We can't confirm anything just yet, but talks about the new Toyota Vios coming to Malaysia has been getting hotter (since last year, actually). We all know that a new-generation Vios is indeed coming this year, but the teaser also included a date - 24 February 2023. Yes, this Friday.

DNGA platform + CVT + same 1.5-litre engine?

The fourth-gen Toyota Vios has already been launched in Thailand called the Yaris Ativ as well as Indonesia (it's also called the Vios there) where both of them are built on the latest Daihatsu New Global Platform (DNGA). We've seen some impressive models using this platform like the Perodua Ativa and Axia, which also means that the upcoming Vios will offer an entirely different look and feel - one that we're quite excited about.

As for the engine, we will most likely get the same 2NR-VE 1.5-litre four-cylinder engine that churns out 106PS and 1438Nm of torque, not the 1.2-litre 3NR-VE unit found in Thailand's Yaris Ativ. Although the engine might be the same, the new Vios will also come with an updated CVT gearbox. The outgoing model kicks out 107PS and 140Nm of torque.

Looking at the timeline, it is very likely that the new Toyota Vios will be launched before the start of the fasting month. Perhaps, there will be some stock in the showrooms to deliver to some of the very first lucky customers for Raya 2023? Macam best.


The Heart Of The BMW M8 GTE - The P63/1 Engine

Every modern engine needs to powerful, reliable and as efficient as possible, this challenge is compounded when an engine needs to power a race car, at maximum engine speeds for lengthy periods at a time.
In the case of the new BMW M8 GTE race car, which will compete in the FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC) and the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship in 2018, it’s powered by the most efficient power plant BMW has ever created – the BMW P63/1.
Technical data of the P63/1 engine.
Model: 3,981 cc, 90-deg V8 engine with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology
Output: 500 to over 600 hp (depending on event regulations)
Bore: 89 mm
Stroke: 80 mm
Cylinder spacing: 98 mm
Max engine speed: approx. 7,000 rpm
During the design phase of the P63/1, at BMW Motorsport engineers embarked on their most comprehensive project since the development of the power unit for the German-based DTM championship comeback in 2012, based on the (E92) BMW M3.
In total, more than 500 engine design drawings – and another 500 drawings for the powertrain since development began in February 2016.
The goal was to develop the most efficient engine ever to power a BMW race car. To achieve this, BMW decided the base engine ideally suited to the high demands was the BMW S63T4, a V8 engine with BMW TwinPower Turbo Technology, first used in the new (F90) BMW M5.
As stipulated in the regulations, the cast parts in the engine block and cylinder heads were adopted without modification from the production power unit. Both components were made in the light-alloy foundry at BMW Group Plant Landshut.
Aside from the regulated cast parts, the engine in the BMW M8 GTE – approximately 2,300 additional components, 985 of which were unique and required comprehensive modifications.
Of these parts, 181 were derived from series projects, while more than 700 were specifically developed for the P63/1 or added from other BMW Motorsport racing engines. The engineers reduced the capacity from 4.4 to 4.0-litres, in line with regulations for the GTE class.
The new design of the crank drive involved the implementation of a flat-plane crankshaft, which brings with it the advantage of a regular firing order and delivers an even sportier sound.
The geometry of the combustion chambers, including the inlet and outlet ports, was also modified to ensure that the P63/1 is ideally designed for the demands of racing. Comprehensive modifications to the intake and exhaust system, and the complete redesign of the turbocharger have also helped to improve efficiency.
This resulted in the fuel burning very quickly and comprehensively at the optimal time, at a maximum temperature of over 2,100 degrees Celsius – allowing the P63/1 to achieve efficiency levels well above 40 percent.
This efficiency gives the team far greater flexibility with regard to fuel usage and race strategy.
Driveability was another area of focus of the P63/1. Sophisticated engine mapping delivers instant throttle response and linear power delivery to help drivers get the most out of the BMW M8 GTE on track. The P63/1 passed its first performance test at BMW's Motorsport test rig in Munich in January 2017, and aced its
first trials
 in July 2017.
At its maiden race at the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship in Daytona, the two M8 GTEs (BMW Team RLL) finished seventh and ninth, covering 773 laps and 731 laps respectively, over 24 hours.


Isuzu MU-X Takes Vehicle of the Year Award for Borneo Safari 2016

Isuzu doesn't have very many products in their range, but what they do have is built well and can handle almost anything you throw at it. But how well do these claims hold up to real world situations? The Borneo Safari is the perfect place to test a car's mettle, and while
we were attached to the Isuzu contingent
 for the event, we did not enter the trail with them. As it turns out, the MU-X and D-Max that had entered the trail managed to pass through with hardly a hitch.
In doing so, the Isuzu MU-X also took home the "Vehicle of the Year" award for the event. "... the Isuzu mu-X performed flawlessly, even in the ultra-tough hard core section of the trail that stretched some 30 km from the entrance arch near Kampung Garung to Timberwell Camp that took three days to complete. It did not require any change of spare parts or any repairs, which speaks volumes of its quality and reliability,” he said.
According to Borneo Safari Organising Committee Chairman Faez A Nordin, this year’s event was the toughest in 12 years. Daily rains caused a two-day delay as the nearly 430-strong convoy struggled with slippery and muddy conditions and numerous steep uphill and downhill slopes that tested driving skills to the limit.


A Representation Of Taxation – Local Cars vs CKD Cars vs CBU Cars

When it comes to buying a brand-new car in Malaysia, there are really only three options. You can get a car that’s locally manufactured – such as a Proton or Perodua (or Bufori), where the vast majority of components are created locally and the model is assembled locally. At the other end of the spectrum are the fully imported models, better known as Completely Built Up (CBU) cars, which come into the country as ready to drive cars.

The third option is a compromise between the two, which is local assembly or Completely Knocked Down (CKD). The premise here is that a certain percentage of components and parts are imported from other countries and mixed with a certain percentage of locally manufactured components, and assembly is carried out locally as well. Between the three options, there are very different prices to pay – here’s why.

Locally Manufactured vs CKD

One of the main advantages to local manufacturing is that you manage to avoid having to pay a large amount of import tax and excise duties on components brought in from other countries. While CKD cars have a certain proportion of locally manufactured parts by regulation, some of the bigger ticket items can become very expensive once you factor in duties.

In a way, this also incentivizes manufacturers to produce as much as they can in country – although the upfront cost for investing in a manufacturing plant or dealing with suppliers may not be worth the effort. As a comparison, let’s look at two cars – the Proton Persona and the Toyota Vios. The Persona Premium CVT will cost you RM 54,600 in Peninsular Malaysia, and RM 53,720 if you were to buy it in Langkawi where cars are duty free. Not a huge difference.

The Vios 1.5G goes for RM 87,300 in Peninsular Malaysia, and RM 70,000 in Langkawi – a more significant RM 17,300 difference in duties. That being said, there are other hidden costs that don’t get exempt between the two cars as simply by economies of scale, the Vios should be a cheaper car to manufacture and assemble – it’s available in far more countries and the components are created in far larger volumes.

No matter how much you want to dig into it, there are still a lot of duties and taxes that the public will not be able to discern because incentive packages and taxation rates and discussed behind closed doors on a manufacturer to manufacturer basis.

CKD vs CBU

Among older Malaysians, there is a belief that CBU cars are superior to CKD cars because they are usually built in more advanced countries – although this is something that we will discuss in detail another time. On a more subjective note, CBU models did usually have a wider range of options for buyers - but this has changed in the last 15 years or so as local assembly has become advanced and flexible enough to allow for generously specified cars.

What is absolutely true is the fact that CBU cars are subject to higher taxes and excise duties than CKD cars, which inherently makes them more expensive. To illustrate this, we look at the current generation BMW 330i M Sport. As is the case with many luxury brands here, they will introduce a car first as a CBU model, and eventually roll out a CKD variant down the line to replace it. The 330i M Sport was brought in at a price of RM 328,800 when it was first launched as a CBU unit, and that price fell significantly with the launch of the CKD variant that retails for RM 288,800 – an RM 40,000 difference.

It is not an entirely apples-to-apples comparison as the initial batch of CBU models may have been such a small volume that BMW Malaysia could not negotiate for a better price per unit. The difference in price is staggering for what is an identically specified car – which does level the playing field a little. This is also something to keep in mind – in order to preserve the second hand value of these cars, manufacturers will sometimes choose to keep the price of a CKD model similar to a CBU variant, but vastly improve the number of features and options on the CKD model.

What’s the takeaway?

If you’re still confused after reading all of this, let’s try and sum it up. The most expensive way to sell a car in Malaysia is to fully import it from another country as a fully built up car. This is expected as many other countries do this in order to promote the creation of local jobs and in turn discourage manufacturers from simply importing models.

That being said, there is still a large difference between a model that’s locally assembled (CKD), and one that’s locally manufactured like our local car brands. A locally assembled car benefits from certain incentives and reductions in tax, but a locally manufactured car can circumvent quite nearly all of these additional costs.

The only problem is that to locally manufacture a car from bumper to bumper, it would cost manufacturers far more money than they could reasonably invest in a country with a relatively small market like Malaysia, unlike other countries like Thailand or Indonesia where the conditions are far more favourable.

 It doesn’t help either that our National Automotive Policy changes quite nearly every year, giving investors no confidence in continued policies and making it impossible to plan for the long term. Let’s hope that our politicians eventually see some sense in working with these manufacturers to give them some long term faith and allow them to invest more in our country.


All-New Bentley Continental GT Convertible Is Here And Its Quieter Than Before

Bentley has just revealed the all-new 3rd generation Continental GT Convertible, featuring a lighter and stiffer body, a newly designed roof, as well as a few other new cool features.
Sharing most components with its Coupe sibling, what’s really new with the Continental GT Convertible is the roof.
The unique Z-fold convertible roof system represents a major improvement both in terms of refinement and packaging. The roof, with its sealing system improvements and acoustic treatments, contributes to a three-decibel reduction in overall noise levels compared to its predecessor at typical cruising speeds.
The tailored convertible roof can be deployed or stowed in just 19 seconds, with the car travelling at speeds of up to 50 km/h. Besides that, seven different fabric hood colours are available, including an authentic tweed finish for the first time.
The roof aside, other key exterior features include the latest LED Matrix headlights and LED taillights with cut-crystal effect, 21-inch Five Tri-Spoke wheels as standard, optional 22-inch wheels, as well as 17 colour options.
Inside, the dashboard is styled and sculpted by long, flowing wings that mirror the shape of the Bentley badge.
The centre console is finished to match the lower fascia, but can be specified in a new technical finish that is inspired by mechanical Swiss watches known as Côtes de Genève.
This surface is machined onto 0.6 mm-thick aluminium and is created by machining from side to side to create a linear pattern. Each row is 5 mm wide and machined at an angle to give a truly three-dimensional finish, with each pass of the machine making a minute step of 0.5 mm.
And then we have a long list of high-end stuff like the 20-way adjustable seats, a choice of three audio systems (standard 650 W 10 speaker system, Bang & Olufsen 1,500 W 16-speaker system with illuminated speakers, and a Naim 2,200 W 18-speaker audio with Active Bass Transducers), a rotating display, 12.3” high-definition-quality digital MMI display, and a new neck-warming system integrated into the seats.
Power comes from the same powertrain package as the Coupe - a 6.0-litre, W12 TSI engine which is paired to a dual-clutch eight-speed transmission, producing 635 PS and 900 Nm of torque, enabling the car to sprint to 100 km/h in 3.8 seconds and clock a top speed of 333 km/h.


Review: GAC GS3 – Pesaing Proton X50 Dari China Yang Lebih ‘Selamat’

GAC GS3
adalah sebuah SUV segmen-B keluaran GAC Motor dari China yang dibawa masuk sebagai pesaing
 Proton X50
yang lebih memberi ketenangan minda kepada pemilik.

SUV ini telah dibawa masuk oleh Angka-Tan Motor untuk dipasarkan di pasaran Malaysia. Ada dua varian ditawarkan, standard dan premium namun varian yang telah diuji adalah varian tertinggi iaitu premium. Persoalannya, kereta buatan China ini bagus dan boleh percaya ke?

FAQ: Kereta China Ni Bagus Ke?

Untuk menjawab persoalan ini, lihat sahaja pada kemajuan teknologi serta kuasa yang dihasilkan oleh model terkini Proton yang diasaskan daripada model Geely seperti
Proton X70
 dan Proton X50. Meskipun majoriti di Malaysia lebih mengenali Geely (kerana Proton) berbanding GAC Motor, namun GAC Motor telah diangkat sebagai No. 1 dalam China IQS (initial Quality Study) selama 8 tahun berturut-turut dan tercalon dalam Fortune Global 500.

Info Penting GAC GS3

GS3 merupakan kereta pemanduan sebelah kanan (RHD) pertama GAC untuk memasuki pasaran antarabangsa

GS3 sekarang diimport sepenuhnya (CBU) dari China, namun GAC ada perancangan untuk menawarkan versi CKD tidak lama lagi, mungkin tahun hadapan

GS3 di pasaran Malaysia nampak sama seperti GAC Trumpchi GS3 facelift di China, namun ada 130 perubahan perincian pada kereta yang sama ini berbanding versi pemanduan sebelah kiri yang asal seperti:

kedudukan stereng dan pedal

mekanisme penukar gear

mekanisme parkir

sistem brek dan stereng

ciri ESP SUV juga telah dilaras semula

tapak gearnya telah dioptimakan untuk pemanduan sebelah kanan.

sistem infotainmen kereta ini juga telah dinaik taraf, membenarkan sambungan kepada telefon bimbit yang lebih lancar dan pantas

pelbagai sistem amaran keselamatan elektronik serta ukuran kelengkapan telah dilaras semula untuk mematuhi peraturan serta undang-undang tempatan.

Pemanduan

Sebelum memandu, terasa seakan-akan kereta ini dilengkapi dengan sistem Start/Stop automatik seperti yang terdapat pada model Perodua ekoran bunyi enjinnya yang tidak begitu kedengaran ketika kereta tidak bergerak. Ini disebabkan oleh penyerap bunyi yang disediakan di bahagian enjin. Namun ketika memecut, bunyi ngauman enjin tetap kedengaran.

Jenis Enjin:
1.5L NA, 4-silinder

Kuasa: 113 PS

Tork: 150 Nm

Transmisi: 6-kelajuan automatik Aisin

Suspensi:
MacPherson Independent (hadapan) / Torsion Beam (belakang
)

Penggunaan Bahan Api: 6.9L/100km

Output yang dihasilkan oleh enjin kereta ini tidaklah setanding dengan output Proton X50 yang menghasilkan 177 PS dan 255 Nm, namun output yang ada ini sudah cukup untuk digunakan bagi pemanduan harian, tambah-tambah di kawasan Lembah Klang yang sering sesak ditambah dengan permukaan jalan yang kurang memuaskan.

Ini kerana SUV mempunyai jarak kelegaan tanah yang lebih tinggi berbanding kereta seperti sedan atau hatchback. Ditambah pula dengan sistem
suspension
 kereta ini yang tidak begitu keras membuatkan setiap bonggol jalan dilalui dengan mudah. Ini memberikan lebih elemen keselesaan kepada pemandu dan penumpang.

Output enjinnya terasa sedikit kurang di mana pemandu perlu memastikan ada ruang yang mencukupi sebelum menekan pedal minyak sehabisnya untuk memotong kenderaan lain.
Walau bagaimanapun, kereta ini boleh sahaja bergerak selesa dalam kelajuan 120 - 140 km/j, namun apabila brek ditekan dan momentum tersebut dah hilang, pemandu perlu memaksa semula kereta untuk bekerja lebih sebelum mencecah kelajuan seperti itu semula.

Namun proses ini tidaklah begitu sukar sekiranya gear kereta diletakkan pada gear S (Sport) yang membuatkan pedal minyak sedikit responsif berbanding di gear D. Ada juga pilihan manual, di mana anda perlu menukar gear pada tuil gear sahaja memandangkan tiada paddle shifters diberikan pada kereta.

Selain gear Sport, anda juga boleh mengubah tetapan stereng mengikut 3 pilihan mod iaitu Comfort, Normal dan Sport. Antara ketiga-tiga mod ini, mod Sport adalah pilihan terbaik memandangkan stereng akan menjadi sedikit berat untuk memberikan kawalan stereng yang lebih realistik. Bagi saya, mod stereng Comfort dan Normal terasa terlalu ringan.

Interior

Bahagian dalamannya menampilkan kabin serba hitam dan papan pemukanya bertemakan
floating horizontal dashboard.
 Rekaannya tidaklah terlalu futuristik, namun ia juga tidaklah teruk. Pemandu menerima kerusi dengan 6 gaya pelarasan, namun ia bukanlah
power seat
.

Paparan infotainmen bersaiz 8 inci turut tersedia sambungan pintar Apple CarPlay dan Mirror Link (bagi Android). Selain itu kereta ini turut dilengkapi dengan meter analog dengan skrin MID bersaiz 3.5 inci, penghawa dingin dengan penapis udara, butang
Push Start
 dan
Sliding Star View Sunroof.

Exterior

Rupa luaran kereta ini agak menarik sebenarnya memandangkan ia jarang sekali dilihat di atas jalan raya di Malaysia. Ia menggunakan rekaan Dynamic Styling terkini GAC Motor yang menampilkan:

Gril hadapan jenis Flying Dynamic Wing 3.0

Rekaan
floating roof

Lampu belakang LED

Foldable side mirror
 dengan lampu signal LED

Rim aluminium aloi 17-inci

Lampu hadapan jenis projektor

Dimensi kereta

Panjang: 4,358 mm

Lebar: 1,825 mm

Tinggi: 1,685 mm

Jarak Roda: 2,560 mm

Berat: 1,350 kg

Kapasiti But: 356 liter

Dari segi saiz, GS3 ini 28mm lebih panjang dan 25mm lebih lebar berbanding X50, namun jarak antara rodanya lebih pendek sebanyak 40mm. Kapasiti but belakangnya pula boleh mencecah 780 liter apabila barisan kerusi belakang diturunkan (60:40).

Ciri Keselamatan

Tiada sebarang ciri keselamatan aktif terdapat pada kereta ini seperti amaran pra pelanggaran mahupun brek kecemasan autonomi yang ada pada varian tertinggi Proton X50. Namun kereta ini diberikan pengesan sudut titik buta, kamera undur serta
sensor
 parkir. Berikut adalah ciri keselamatan lain pada kereta ini:

6
airbags

ABS

EBD

ESP

Hydraulic Brake Assist

Hill Start Hold Control

Hill Descend Control

ESS

ISOFIX

Engine immobilizer

Harga (waiting for GAC)

Varian premium GS3 dijual pada RM96,800 manakala varian stardard dijual pada harga RM88,800. Harga yang disebutkan ini adalah harga OTR tanpa insurans serta dengan pengecualian cukai SST yang telah berakhir pada 30 Jun lalu. Kami masih menunggu harga rasmi baharu untuk model ini yang masih belum dikeluarkan.

Untuk perbandingan, Proton X50 Flagship dijual pada harga RM103,300 . Ada perbezaan sebanyak RM6,500 antara kedua-dua model ini yang diterjemahkan melalui perbezaan teknologi dan prestasi enjin kedua-dua model ini. Namun jika dibandingkan dengan X50 varian Premium yang berharga RM93,200, ciri keselamatannya dengan GS3 tidaklah jauh berbeza.

Kesimpulan

Dari segi kuasa enjin dan teknologi, GS3 ini memang tewas kepada X50. Tapi dari segi ketenangan minda, GS3 dilihat sebagai pilihan yang lebih baik, tambah tambah jika anda mahu gunakan SUV ini sebagai kenderaan harian kerana:

Tidak perlu tempoh menunggu yang lama untuk mendapatkan kereta seperti Proton X50

Tiada masalah alat ganti dan servis selepas jualan buat masa ini kerana permintaan bagi kereta ini tidaklah setinggi Proton X50. Alat ganti GS3 boleh didapati di mana-mana pusat servis Nissan.

Jika anda mahukan SUV segmen B seperti X50 tapi tak sanggup nak terlibat dalam pelbagai isu selepas pembelian, GAC GS3 mungkin SUV yang anda cari. Kalau berminat, kunjungi pusat pameran GAC Motor dan pandu uji GS3 sekarang.


Icons Of Pop-Up: Hidden Headlights That Were Just Insanely Cool

We explore the weird and wonderful stretch of time when cars had these weird bright things that would rise up when needed and squat back down when not. Argue all you want about how good they were as an illumination solution, but you can't escape the fact that a lot of us (or even the vast majority) think they’re just so damn cool.

Headlights in cars
 are both something that we typically take for granted while at the same time being an invaluable part of the driving experience when the sun goes down. Though they first
popped up
 in the 1970s, the heyday of pop-up headlights stretched between the 1980s to the early 1990s, when car design was still tied up in making personal statements, even if it meant unecessary complexity.

A car had to look sleek, discrete, somewhat brash, and also a little sci-fi stealthy to really capture the imagination, and what could be more semi-impractical than having a mechanism that would raise the headlights into view only when needed. It was functional too: when retracted, the car’s smooth lines are left undisturbed with nothing but a body-coloured outline.

By now, automakers are much more interested with
designing complicated LED clusters
 that match their individual front end corporate ‘faces’. With the introduction of daytime running lights, they partially illuminate the moment the engines comes on. So much for being discreet.

That said, there are some cars that have definitely transcended the trend and have become etched in our minds as inseparable from their unique front illuminators, even going so far as to become ageless ambassadors of pop-up headlights.

Mazda MX-5

How could we not mention the MX-5. The
current generation car
 uses fixed slim LED lamps at the nose but the 1989 original introduced so many to the pop-up
movement
. The 1st-gen NA car did have fixed cluster position and indicator lights but the real bright beams lay hidden behind the bonnet shunt line. Clean examples of these charmingly analogue roadsters are getting hard to find, and it’s no surprise since they're also a decent time machine back to the 90s.

Ferrari Testarossa

Pop-up headlights were actually more commonplace in exotic vehicles due to their ability to be hidden away, maintaining the aerodynamic wedge shape that so defined these cars (and still do).

While it’s a personal toss-up between 365 GTB/4 Daytona, the F355, and the 456M for pop-up headlight supremacy, the Testarossa’s icon status cannot be denied, and definitely not just for its placement in a certain 80s TV show.

Along with our next car, the Ferrari 'redhead' was quintessentially 1980s bravado and theatre. The flat-12 engine marked an unusual foray for the Maranello camp and resulted in some dynamic advantages as well as a unique mid-engine concerto, but its styling was what remained most memorable, especially up front.

Lamborghini Countach

Was there any other way Lamborghini could have made the Countach drivable at night without pop-up headlights? Everything about the car’s shape was so angular and extreme that it’s a wonder how they could fit that many illuminators ahead of the front wheels.

When daylight started to fade, the four huge reflectors would stand at attention defiantly against any aerodynamic ideal, perfectly encapsulating the car’s enigmatically contrarian philosophy. The Countach never made much sense, and neither does its pop-up headlights, but that’s exactly why it’s such an immortal nameplate.

BMW 8 Series

Like the M1 of
roughly
 the same era, the
first-generation BMW 8 Series
 had a famously petite kidney grille that was framed by horizontal elements that also housed its position and indicator lights -
remember when BMW
 design had good taste? Those were the days.

That left the E31 little room to fit proper headlights, so naturally 'ze Germans' went with pop-ups, as was the style at the time. But where the M1 had a rather ungainly square pair that made it look like a frog in the dark, the 8 Series had lower-profile rectangular ones that looked superb, just like the rest of the car.

Jaguar XJ220

An aerodynamic profile that just cuts through the air was essential when Jaguar was developing the XJ220, so named for its target top speed of 220mph (354km/h). Though the production car never achieved that, its run of 341.7km/h still secured it the title of world’s fastest, which it held for a mere year until the
McLaren F1
 stole that crown. Ouch.

Despite being engineered primarily for function, the aluminium body looks like a divinely inspired work of art and is possibly - in my opinion - still the most drop-dead beautiful shape ever fitted to four wheels, exceeding even the
anorexic E-Type
. There, I said it.

Like the Ferrari and Lamborghini, a fixed headlight housing wasn’t a viable choice, but neither was conventional pop-ups as they would ruin the aerodynamics at anything above moderate speeds.

Instead, Jaguar fashioned fixed headlights that sat in specially carved pockets to ensure a straight beam, but would feature pop-up ‘
eyelids
’ that would cover them up flush with the body when not in use. Ingenious.

And there you have it, some iconic pop-up headlights through the ages, did we miss any? The Honda NSX or Lotus Esprit for example? Sound off in the comments.


Help Your Car Breathe Better - A Guide To Air Filters

The answers you seek may not be the ones you want, but we'll help break down the different types of air filters you can get for your car and what's best.

One of the cheapest and easiest modifications that people do to their cars is to change the intake and air filter for the engine - which basically is supposed to help the engine get more air and breathe a little better. The idea is that a better filter will be able to protect your engine from all the nasty microscopic particulates in the air (which can damage your engine) while providing better airflow. There are three kinds of air filters to pick from, and we'll help explain the advantages and disadvantages of each - as well as tell you which is the best for your vehicle.

Original or OEM Panel Filters

This is the most basic type of air filter for your car because it's the type that your car generally will come with. Most, if not all manufacturers will use a panel type filter as shown above, and the material will usually be a special kind of paper that is folded in an accordion shape. The reason for the folding is that the shape increases the surface of the area by fifty times that of the opening, allowing for plenty of filtration without really impeding flow. These filters will sit in the airbox that sends air to the intake of either the turbocharger or directly to the engine of your car.

Aftermarket Panel Filters

Perhaps one of the most commonly available and widely produced aftermarket filter replacements are in the panel shape, and are usually designed to be drop-in replacements. There are many different options out there that tout better filtration or better flow, but one of the most well known filter manufacturers is K&N out of the good old USA. Their filters have been empirically proven to improve power and torque outputs of an engine, and the added advantage is that they are serviceable by cleaning and re-oiling so you don't need to replace them. You can see from the photo that the filtration element is a little more complex than OEM.

Open Pod/Mushroom Filters

Ah, we come to one of the most controversial topics when it comes to filters. The open pod filter, as it's more widely known, is a type of filter that completely replaces the standard airbox found on your engine. Gone is that little plastic box in which your standard filter element sits, and you will usually have a form of pipe that connects from the throttle body directly to this mushroom or cone-shaped filter. In concept, these filters look cool and also look like they would flow more air.

In practice, it's not that simple. These filter elements can be physically larger and therefore allow better flow, but the difficulty lies in making sure good quality air enters the air filter, to begin with. The engine bay is a very hot place, and unlike an airbox and panel filter setup, the pod filter is more likely to take in a lot of hot air that translates to less power (we can go over this another day). To make proper use of a pod filter, you need to ensure that cold air gets to it. What is indisputable is that open pod air filters sound undeniably better with throaty induction noises whenever you put your foot down.

Which one is best?

Well, the tricky thing is that over time, manufacturers have vastly improved their standard panel filters that you find in their cars to the point where they are pretty much on par with whatever the aftermarket can offer - but it still doesn't hurt to try it out for yourself and see. If you're not chasing every last horsepower, we recommend you just stick with whatever the manufacturer put in the car to begin with, or a certified OEM replacement.


VIDEO: Mysterious Ferrari F12 Spied Roaming Around Maranello

Also read:
SPIED: A More Extreme Ferrari F12. Our First Glimpse At A Speciale, GTO?

Word is that
Ferrari
 has a lighter, more powerful
F12
 waiting in the wings – tentatively known as the F12 GTO or F12 Speciale. With the current 730hp F12 occupying top slot in Ferrari’s food chain of
naturally aspirated
engines, the more powerful GTO/Speciale is earmarked to take over.

We have reported on this new Ferrari
before
 when it was seen uncamouflaged, parked in a visible area of Ferrari’s headquarters. Unfortunately for observers, Ferrari has taken that lesson to heart and have very thoroughly covered it up this time around.

Still, a consolation would be to get to hear the new car’s V12 as it drives around the Italian town.


Hotel Terkemuka Di Langkawi Diarah Tutup - Lebih 50 Kakitangan Positif COVID-19

Sebuah hotel popular di
Langkawi
 telah diarahkan tutup untuk sementara setelah 59 kakitangan dan ahli keluarga mereka positif COVID-19.

Menurut Pengarah Kesihatan Kedah, Dr. Othman Warijo, seramai 249 individu telah disaring dan 192 daripada mereka negatif manakala 3 lagi masih menunggu keputusan ujian. Penularan jangkitan ini dikenali sebagai kluster Dah Teluk Nibung dan diklasifikasikan sebagai kluster tempat kerja.

Bagi memastikan gelombang besar penularan COVID-19 tidak berlaku di Langkawi, Jabatan Kesihatan Kedah turut sama menyaring kontak rapat kakitangan hotel berkenaan. Malah, semua kontak rapat kes positif itu juga diarah menjalani kuarantin di rumah selama 10 hari.

Setakat ini, semua kes positif tersebut hanya membabitkan pekerja tempatan di hotel berkenaan serta kontak rapat seperti ahli keluarga. Siasatan awal telah mendapati bahawa penularan jangkitan ini disyaki berasal daripada komuniti seterusnya merebak di tempat kerja.

Berikutan daripada kejadian tersebut, pihak pengurusan hotel berkenaan telah bersetuju untuk menghentikan operasi serta merta secara sukarela bagi memastikan penularan jangkitan ini dapat dikawal. Seramai 73 individu kontak kasual yang mengunjungi hotel tersebut telah dimaklumkan untuk melakukan ujian COVID-19 sekiranya bergejala.

Baru-baru ini, Langkawi telah mencatatkan
kes COVID-19 pertama
 di bawah gelembung pelancongan yang melibatkan pelancong kanak-kanak berumur 3 tahun. Meskipun kes positif dalam kalangan gelembung pelancongan di Langkawi semakin meningkat, namun Dr. Othman memberikan jaminan bahawa penularan jangkitan ini masih lagi di tahap terkawal.

Persoalannya,
mampukah Langkawi bertahan
 sebagai lokasi pertama gelembung pelancongan setelah kes semakin meningkat di pulau peranginan tersebut? Hanya masa yang boleh menentukan. Jika anda merancang untuk bercuti ke sana, anda mempunyai dua pilihan iaitu menggunakan
jalan darat mahupun jalan udara.

Tetapi memandangkan
kebenaran rentas negeri bakal diumumkan tidak lama
 lagi selepas 90% golongan dewasa divaksin, pasti ada yang merancang untuk bercuti mahupun balik kampung. Apa pun tujuan anda, jika anda menggunakan kereta, anda masih perlu berjaga-jaga kerana virus COVID-19 masih ada dalam kalangan kita dan virus tersebut masih boleh tersebar di dalam kereta.

Sehubungan dengan itu, kami di Carlist.my ingin berkongsi tips yang boleh anda ikuti jika anda merancang untuk bercuti bersama keluarga atau rakan-rakan menaiki kereta supaya
risiko penyebaran COVID-19 dalam kereta
 dapat dikurangkan.

1. Sentiasa Memakai Topeng Muka Di Dalam Kereta

Walaupun anda satu keluarga, namun jika sudah keluar bercuti atau balik kampung menggunakan kereta, pasti banyak tempat yang bakal anda kunjungi. Memandangkan sistem aliran udara kereta bersifat tertutup, sekiranya salah seorang daripada anda telah dijangkiti dan semua di dalam kereta tidak menggunakan pelitup muka, lebih tinggi risiko anda untuk dijangkiti. Pemakaian pelitup muka membantu mengurangkan penyebaran partikel virus sebanyak 90% sekiranya pembawa virus mengenakan topeng muka semasa di dalam kereta.

2. Digalakkan Buka Tingkap Semasa Memandu

Bagi mengelakkan pengumpulan virus di dalam kereta, kajian mendapati bahawa perbuatan membuka
tingkap kereta
 sekurang-kurangnya 10 saat sekali sekala ketika memandu dapat mengurangkan partikel virus terkumpul sebanyak 97%. Perbezaan tekanan udara di dalam dan luar kereta akan berlaku apabila tingkap dibuka dan partikel ini akan disedut keluar.

3. Cuci Dan Sanitasi Kereta

Sekiranya anda menggunakan kereta sendiri, cuci kereta anda serta
sanitasi
 permukaan dan bahagian-bahagian yang sering dipegang oleh penumpang seperti pemegang pintu, tali pinggang keledar dan butang mengawal tingkap. Anda juga digalakkan untuk mencuci tangan selepas turun kereta sebelum menyentuh muka.

4. Sediakan Hand Sanitizer

Sekiranya perbuatan untuk mencuci tangan setiap kali turun naik kereta itu dilihat sebagai sesuatu yang melecehkan, anda hanya perlu untuk menyediakan hand sanitizer di dalam kereta. Sebelum memandu, pastikan anda menggunakan hand sanitizer untuk mengelakkan sebarang virus yang mungkin berada di tangan anda daripada merebak ke tempat lain seperti stereng kereta, tali pinggang ataupun tombol gear.

5. Sediakan Alat Ujian COVID-19

Memandangkan alat ujian COVID-19 kini mudah untuk didapati, sediakan alat tersebut di dalam kereta. Ini bagi memastikan pencegahan awal dapat dilakukan sekiranya ada ahli keluarga yang berasa kurang sihat atau bergejala. Terperangkap bersama orang yang positif COVID-19 di dalam kereta adalah sesuatu yang amat berisiko.

Diharapkan, dengan perkongsian tips ini dapat membantu anda untuk mengekang penyebaran virus COVID-19 terutamanya ketika berada di dalam kereta.

Hati-hati di jalan raya! #KitaJagaKita


Mercedes-Benz Malaysia To Be Wholly Owned By German Principal

Late last week, local Mercedes-Benz dealer Cycle & Carriage Bintang (C&CB) received a notice from Daimler AG (DAG) that they are exercising their call option (to buy) over 66 million shares held in Mercedes-Benz Malaysia.
Mercedes-Benz Malaysia (formerly known as DaimlerChrysler Malaysia) is a joint venture between DAG (51%) and C&CB (49%), incorporated on October 17th 2002.
As such, with the proposed sale of the 66.003 million shares (valued at RM 66,003,000), DAG could assume full control of Mercedes-Benz Malaysia.
C&CB’s CEO, Mr Wilfrid Foo, says “Cycle & Carriage Bintang would like to assure all our customers that the recent decision by Daimler AG to exercise their call option on the company’s holding in Mercedes-Benz Malaysia will not impact our commitment or ability to continue delivering exceptional experiences to our customers across our nationwide dealerships in Malaysia.”
“All 13 dealerships will continue to provide you with
quality sales and aftersales services
 in accordance with the strictest Mercedes-Benz quality standards supported by Mercedes-Benz Malaysia.”
Completion of the sale will take place 12 months from the exercise date (November 30th 2018). C&CB will also lose their entitled annual dividend of approximately RM 11.2 million even when MBM declares a dividend.


Paris Under Attack: Suspected Car Bombs Or Grenades, Shootings Leaving More Than 15 Dead, 60 Hostages

*Latest Update (8:02 am, Malaysian time) - Death toll now at 40, France has closed its borders, declared state of emergency.
BREAKING: At approximate 4:15am Malaysian time, Paris was under a string of suspected terrorism. So far reports are unclear as the city falls into chaos. So far leaving 15 to 20 dead, there are also reports of hostages being taken, with reported figures ranging from 60 to 100 people.
Bombings can be heard, whether it's a car bomb or grenade or planted is unclear as yet, but at a football match where France is hosting the German national team where France President Hollande is present, the match halted halfway as a bomb can be heard while the players are playing.
So far details are scarce as reports begin pouring in from social media uploads through Twitter, Facebook, Vines etc. Upon plotting the attacks, it's very likely a simultaneous planned attack as it seems to be along the same route.
Attacks on places includes:
Forum des Halle shopping mall where shootings are allegedly reported, bombing is also reported but unsure as to whether its a car bomb or grenade
Bataclan Theatre where armed men stormed into the theatre and shoot at the crowds, reportedly 60 to 100 hostages held here
10th Arrondissement Paris where a Cambodian Restaurant was attacked by armed men
Les Carillon Bar where reports said armed men shot more than 100 rounds from automatic rifles into the bar
Stade de France (stadium) where the French national team is hosting a friendly match against the German national football team. President Hollande was then escorted out.
If such violent attacks continued on, be it shootings, stabbings, car bombs - basically non-discretionary attacks with no reasons towards innocent individuals persists, many of humanity's great events or celebrations such as Formula 1 races, motor shows or football matches will never be the same anymore.