Chevrolet Reveals Two Radical Versions Of Colorado At SEMA 2017

Chevrolet has partnered with popular American  off-road outfitter ‘American Expedition Vehicles’ (AEV) and built two concepts based on the Colorado pickup truck for the ongoing 2017 SEMA Auto Show in the US.
Called the Colorado ZR2 AEV and the Colorado ZR2 Race Development Truck, the former was built for some serious off-roading while the latter as its name suggests, is made for high-speed desert racing.
The different characteristics explain why the Colorado ZR2 AEV is powered by a 2.8-litre Duramax turbo diesel engine while the ZR2 Race Development truck gets a 3.5-litre V6 engine.
While common components on both models include:
Specially tuned Multimatic DSSV Suspensions
Long-travel rear leaf springs
Electric locking differentials
Anti-wrap link
Rear differential cover
Front and rear jounce shocks
High-angle upper ball joint
High-angle tie rods
Exclusive to the ZR2 AEV are features like:
AEV front and rear off-road bumpers
Underbody skid protection
Expedition bed rack
High clearance fender flares and high-rise snorkel
AEV DualSport beadlock wheels
35-inch BF Goodrich KM2 Mud-Terrain tires
Front and rear high output LED auxiliary lighting
ARB refrigerator/freezer,
Equipt aluminum storage cases
NATO-style fuel cans
James Baroud USA awning in the bed
Recovery shackles
Validated by Chevy Performance Engineering and legendary off-road racer Chad Hall, the ZR2 Race Development Truck on the other hand, gets:
33-inch Goodyear Wrangler MT/R tires
Rear shock skidplates
Rear differential skidplate
Steel driveshaft
Wheel spacers with extended-length wheel studs
Off-road air intake and performance exhaust
The Colorado also boasts the segment’s first applications of 4G LTE Wi-Fi and Apple CarPlay, along with safety features such as Forward Collision Alert and Lane Departure Warning.
“The ZR2 AEV concept and ZR2 Race Development Truck do not only prove that the Colorado can play any way you want, but also showcase the efforts we’ve made to explore how owners can get even more from their trucks,” said Jim Campbell, Chevrolet U.S. vice president for Truck Strategy, Performance Vehicles and Motorsports.
“The work with AEV acknowledges the strengths of our midsize platform, with both SEMA entries showcasing the versatility that’s already made Colorado a resounding success.”
The Colorado ZR2 AEV concept and ZR2 Race Development Truck join approximately 20 additional Chevrolet models at the SEMA Show which will take place until 3 November 2017.


Nissan Silvia 180SX Hilang Di KL Ditemui Hangus Dibakar Di Kelantan

Luluh hati pemilik sebuah
Nissan Silvia 180SX
 apabila kereta yang dilaporkan hilang di kawasan kediamannya akhirnya dijumpai dalam keadaan hangus sepenuhnya.

Terdahulu, Louis Lai telah membuat hantaran di media sosial bahawa kereta yang bernombor plat WCP 211 itu didapati hilang di Jinjang, Kepong pada jam 7 pagi, 15 Februari lalu. Beliau turut menawarkan habuan sebanyak RM10,000 kepada sesiapa yang boleh menjumpai kereta tersebut.

Kira-kira jam 1 petang, Louis memaklumkan bahawa melalui info terkini, kereta tersebut dikesan sedang menuju ke
Kelantan
. Wang RM10,000 yang ditawarkan sebagai ganjaran juga telah dinaikkan menjadi RM20,000.

Tetapi nasib tidak menyebelahi beliau apabila kereta yang dicuri di Kuala Lumpur itu ditemui dalam keadaan hangus sepenuhnya sehari berikutnya berhampiran Sekolah Kebangsaan Kampung Tasek, Sungai Petai, Pasir Puteh, Kelantan.

Menurut pengawal sekolah berkenaan, beliau menyaksikan
kebakaran
 kereta tersebut pada jam 6 pagi, namun tidak melaporkan kejadian itu kepada sesiapa. Sekitar jam 11 pagi, pihak polis telah menerima laporan berkaitan penemuan kereta terbakar dan bergegas ke lokasi kejadian.

Berdasarkan siasatan polis, nombor casis kereta terbakar itu menyamai laporan kereta yang dilaporkan hilang di Kepong. Pihak polis telah menghubungi Louis untuk pengecaman kereta dan kereta tersebut disahkan memang miliknya.

Seluruh peminat industri automotif berkongsi kesedihan bersama Louis setelah melihat sendiri penghabisan kepada jalan cerita yang malang dan kejam ini. Nissan Silvia 180SX turut dikenali sebagai S13 dan hanya dikeluarkan di Jepun bermula 1989 hingga 1993. Harga semasa kereta ini dipasaran mencecah hampir RM100 ribu, namun kini hangus tinggal rangka dan abu.

Menurut Ketua Polis Daerah Pasir Puteh, Deputi Superintendan Ediansha Endal, pihaknya sedang giat memburu suspek yang tergamak untuk membakar sebuah kereta setelah beberapa jam dicuri. Walau bagaimanapun, tiada sebarang mayat ditemui di dalam kereta itu seperti mana yang tular di media sosial.

Berdasarkan penemuan tersebut, segelintir orang awam di media sosial menyatakan bahawa terdapat kemungkinan kereta itu dibakar kerana sukar untuk dibawa lari memandangkan ia amat mudah untuk dikesan orang awam memandangkan warna dan corak pada badan kereta yang menyerlah.

Apa-apa pun, tindakan membakar Nissan Silvia 180SX yang boleh dianggap
rare
 sehari selepas dicuri kelihatan agak sedikit keterlaluan, bukan?


All-New 2016 Honda Civic – Here’s What We Know So Far

Thanks to the sharp spotters at
CivicX.com
, we now know what the all-new tenth generation 2016 Honda Civic will look like, and what a stunning looking car it is!
As reported earlier, the all-new
2016 Honda Civic Sedan will be making its debut
 next week at the Frankfurt International Auto Show. Prior to this, Honda has already given us an indication of what the Civic Sedan will look like when it unveiled the
Civic Coupe Concept at April’s New York International Auto Show
. The Civic Coupe is developed primarily for the North American market (USA and Canada).
Global Range
Globally, there will be six main variants for the all-new Civic – Western Europe is getting the Civic hatchback, Civic Type-R hatchback (2.0-litre, 310 PS VTEC Turbo), and
Civic Tourer wagon
, Asian and Eastern European markets will get the Civic Sedan seen here, while North American markets will get all Civic models including a Civic Coupe, except the Civic Tourer and Civic Type-R hatchback.
The Civic Type-R Sedan is yet to be confirmed for Asian markets.
What’s New?
For the first time in a Civic Sedan, a 1.5-litre VTEC Turbo engine will be offered. This engine made its debut in April 2015 in the Japanese market
Honda Step WGN
. In the Step WGN, the direct injection petrol engine produces 150 PS at 5,500 rpm but the most impressive bit is its torque, 203 Nm between 1,600 to 5,000 rpm. That's quite close to a 2.4-litre naturally aspirated i-VTEC engine from the Honda Accord, which produces 225 Nm at 4,000 rpm.
In the US, the engine will be paired to either a six-speed manual transmission, or a CVT, as shown by the spyshot above – gear shifter only has D, S and L modes.
A naturally aspirated engine, probably an updated version of the current model’s 1.8-litre SOHC i-VTEC engine is likely be offered as well.
Note that engine and transmission options might differ from country to country.
Inside, we have
previously reported
 that the outgoing model’s signature two-tier dashboard has been replaced with a conventional instrument cluster. Personally, I am not a fan of the current model’s two-tier layout as I think it only makes the instrument panel to be unnecessarily cluttered, so I think this is a good move.
Without the need to accommodate the two-tier dashboard, the A-pillars do not need to pushed so far in front so there is no need to fit a front three-quarter window on the front doors, and the side view mirrors can now be positioned at the base of the window ‘sail’ rather than on the front doors like in the outgoing model.
Visibility and headroom should also be better than the outgoing model.
Class-leading Interior Space?
Nobody does interior packaging like Honda and we expect the all-new Civic to be the C-segment’s new benchmark in interior space.
Some spyshots have indicated a very deep centre console and the full length driver’s centre arm rest.
Much of this is possible because the outgoing model’s mechanical hand-operated parking brake has now been replaced with an electrically operated unit. There’s also a Brake Hold feature for stop-go traffic.
The location of ‘ECON’ mode button – which allows for more energy efficient use of air-conditioning and throttle – will also be relocated from the lower part of the dashboard, to near the gear lever.
When will it be launched?
Not so soon. While the Civic Sedan will be making its global debut next week, the model is not likely to go on sale until 2016.
The US is the Civic’s main market so the model will first go on sale there. Typically, it takes about 12 to 18 months after model’s global debut before local assembly can commence.
The outgoing ninth generation model went on sale in the left-hand drive US in April 2011 but sales in right-hand drive markets did not begin until early 2012.
We don’t expect the all-new Honda Civic to be launched here until 2017, maybe late-2016 if we are lucky. Having said that, one of the goals of
Honda’s recent reorganisation
 is to reduce the lead time between a model’s global debut and local launch, so the lead time might be shorter than expected.


Salah Ke Jika Kita Langgar Kereta Yang Double Park? – Menghalang Jalan Keluar

Jika kereta anda dihalang oleh kereta yang
double park
 tanpa meninggalkan nombor telefon atau menurunkan
handbrake
, apa yang boleh anda lakukan mengikut undang-undang?

Fenomena
double park
 di Malaysia ini bukanlah sesuatu yang baru.
Cara meletakkan kenderaan
 seperti ini amat popular terutama bagi mereka yang malas nak cari kawasan letak kereta yang kosong. Namun kes
double park
 ini juga sering timbul ekoran ruangan parkir yang disediakan tidak mencukupi.

*Kredit foto: NST

Tidak dinafikan, kebanyakan orang tidak gemar apabila keretanya dihalang oleh kereta
double park
. Perbuatan tersebut sering dianggap perbuatan tidak bertimbang rasa melainkan berlaku kecemasan. Jika anda masih ingat, pada tahun 2014, telah tular satu kejadian di mana sebuah
trak pikap
 Nissan Navara telah bertindak melanggar dan menolak
Perodua Myvi
 yang didapati
double park
 di belakang trak berkenaan sehingga Myvi itu berada di lorong tengah jalan.

*Kredit video: Upload Mega

Video berkenaan merakamkan tepukan orang ramai ketika Myvi tersebut dilanggar ke tengah jalan. Malah ia turut mendapat pujian netizen pada ketika itu. Kebiasaannya, amat jarang untuk kita lihat perkara demikian daripada berlaku kerana ramai pemandu kini sudah menjadi lebih bijak dan tahu akibatnya jika terlalu mengikut emosi.

Persoalannya, jika anda melanggar kereta yang
double park
dan menghalang jalan keluar anda, adakah ia dikira salah anda meskipun kereta yang
double park
 itu yang diletakkan di tempat yang tidak sepatutnya?

*Kredit foto: NST

Salah Ke Kalau Langgar?

Segala pelanggaran yang dibuat, tidak kiralah sama ada sengaja atau tidak masih dikira sebagai suatu kesalahan. Pasti ada yang tidak berpuas hati dengan keputusan ini memandangkan kereta
double park
 tersebut yang menjadi punca serta pihak pertama yang melakukan
kesalahan jalan raya
. Memanglah Myvi itu bersalah kerana
double park
, tetapi pemandu trak berkenaan juga dikira bersalah kerana telah melanggar Myvi tersebut.

Jika anda didapati melanggar kereta yang
double park
, anda boleh didakwa di bawah LN166/59 Peraturan 10 Kaedah-kaedah Lalu Lintas Jalan 1959 yang membolehkan anda didenda sebanyak RM300. Bukan itu sahaja, anda juga boleh didakwa di bawah Seksyen 43(1) Akta Pengangkutan Jalan 1987 yang menyatakan:

“Seseorang yang memandu suatu kenderaan motor di jalan secara tidak cermat tanpa memberi perhatian yang sepatutnya atau tanpa pertimbangan yang munasabah terhadap orang lain yang menggunakan jalan itu dikira sebagai suatu kesalahan di mana jika disabitkan bersalah, boleh dihukum denda dari RM4,000 hingga RM10,000 dan dipenjarakan sehingga tidak lebih dari 12 bulan.”

Kereta Yang Double Park Tak Salah Ke?

Sudah semestinya salah! Tahukah anda, kereta yang didapati
double park
 boleh ditunda dan dikenakan denda sebanyak RM300? Bukan itu sahaja, di bawah Seksyen 48(1) Akta Pengangkutan Jalan 1987, ia menjadi satu kesalahan jika pemandu memberhentikan kenderaan di mana-mana jalan dalam apa-apa kedudukan atau keadaan yang mungkin menyebabkan bahaya atau kesusahan kepada pengguna jalan yang lain atau kepada lalu lintas.

Di bawah seksyen ini, tindakan
double park
 yang menyusahkan orang lain boleh dikenakan denda dari RM1,000 hingga RM5,000 atau penjara selama setahun atau kedua-duanya jika disabitkan bersalah. Pihak berkuasa seperti
PDRM dan JPJ
 juga diberi kuasa untuk mengapit (
clamp
)
tayar
 kereta itu atau menundanya ke tempat lain bagi mengawal lalu lintas.

Pendek kata, jika kenderaan anda dihalang oleh kereta
double park
, janganlah sesekali langgar kereta tersebut. Biarkan sahaja kereta itu berada pada pihak yang salah. Kalau langgar juga, nanti dua-dua jadi bersalah. Tapi kalau tak boleh langgar, apa yang kita boleh buat jika terperangkap dalam situasi ini?

Apa Yang Boleh Dilakukan?

Semak cermin hadapan kereta tersebut, mungkin pemandu ada tinggalkan nombor telefonnya disitu untuk dihubungi.

Bunyikan hon jika tiada nombor telefon ditinggalkan. Aksi ini mungkin akan mengundang perhatian orang ramai tapi itulah tujuannya. Kena tebalkan muka sikitlah.

Hubungi majlis perbandaran tempatan seperti DBKL, MBPJ dan sebagainya untuk tindakan selanjutnya.

Ingat, jangan sesekali mengambil keputusan sendiri dengan
melanggar kereta
 berkenaan. Tetapi jika berlaku kecemasan, tidak mustahil perkara ini boleh berlaku. Yang paling penting, jika anda terpaksa double park, sekurang-kurangnya tinggalkanlah nombor telefon anda untuk dihubungi. Nanti tak pasal-pasal kemik pula kereta kena hentam.

Bertimbang rasalah di jalan raya!


Sprint To The Suzuka Circuit Campaign – A Chance To Be At The 2018 Japan F1

Customers who register a Honda Civic Type-R (FK8) between April 2018 and June 2018 will stand a chance to win an exclusive trip to Japan to experience the 2018 Formula 1 Japanese Grand Prix at Suzuka Circuit in October.

To take part in Honda Malaysia’s ‘Sprint to the Suzuka Circuit’ campaign, customers who register a Civic Type-R during the campaign period will need to fill up a form and answer two short questions at any of Honda’s Sport Dealers (20 locations nationwide) to be in the running for the exclusive trip to Japan.

10 exclusive winners will be selected based on the creativity of their answers to the two short questions. The contest is only applicable for purchase of 2017 models.

The 10 exclusive winners will each receive 2 Business Class flight tickets, 2 tickets to watch the 2018 Formula 1 Japanese Grand Prix, 5 days 4 nights of accommodation in Japan and 2 official Honda merchandise, all worth up to RM30,000.

Launched locally
 in November 2017, the Civic Type-R is the most powerful Honda model ever sold in Malaysia.

A capable chassis design and powerful 2.0-litre turbocharged VTEC engine (310 PS and 400 Nm) has helped the Civic Type R to a slew of records the world over, most notably, being the
fastest FWD production car
 to lap the iconic Nurburgring Circuit in Germany.

In addition to an advanced chassis and drivetrain, the FK8 offers three drive modes – Comfort, Sport and, +R, which alters the car’s responses to best suit the prevailing driving conditions.

Honda Malaysia has racked more than 100 bookings since they opened their order books in October 2017. The fully imported All-New Civic Type R is priced at RM320,000, on-the-road without insurance.

For more contest details and the full list of Honda Sport dealers, visit their website or call Honda Malaysia's toll-free number at 1-800-88-2020.


BMW iX5 Hydrogen pilot fleet launched - 401hp, 504km WLTP range

The BMW Group is ready to ship out the first batch of the
BMW iX5 Hydrogen
 as part of its pilot fleet for its next critical phase - media reviews.

The fleet of hydrogen-powered BMW iX5 consisting of 100 vehicles will be sent around the globe for trials and demonstrations as part of its 'active' development while offering real-world driving experiences and more importantly, vital feedback for BMW.

Why hydrogen? According to Oliver Zipse, Chairman of the Board of Management of BMW AG, "Hydrogen is a versatile energy source that has a key role to play in the energy transition process and therefore in climate protection. After all, it is one of the most efficient ways of storing and transporting renewable energies."

"We should use this potential to also accelerate the transformation of the mobility sector. Hydrogen is the missing piece in the jigsaw when it comes to emission-free mobility. One technology on its own will not be enough to enable climate-neutral mobility worldwide," added Zipse.

The hydrogen fuel cell system in itself has the ability to offer a high-continuous output of 125kW or 170hp using nothing but the hydrogen from the tanks and oxygen from the air. Special hydrogen components were developed by BMW to gain the most from this particular powertrain as well as sourcing individual fuel cells from one of its great buddies in the hydrogen industry, Toyota.

Another great aspect of the BMW iX5 Hydrogen is the hydrogen fuel tanks. A couple of 700-bar tanks made with carbon-fibre reinforced plastic (CFRP) can hold up to 6kg of hydrogen and can be fully filled in just 3-4 minutes. Each fill-up offers a super-clean WLTP driving range of up to 504km. Again, using nothing but hydrogen and oxygen. Suck on that, BEVs.

BMW also stated that when this hydrogen powertrain is combined with its fifth-gen BMW eDrive tech fitted at the rear axle (electric motor, transmission & power electronics), the BMW iX5 Hydrogen is able to punch out a total of 401hp. 0-100km/h can be completed in under six seconds paired with a top speed of over 180km/h.

Not bad, hydrogen. Not bad at all.


What Malaysian Motorsport Really Needs

BIG THANKS TO
MSF RACING
 AND NELSON SIM FOR THE PHOTOS

Following on from our article about the demise of motorsports in Malaysia, let’s turn to something a little more constructive and positive. There have been many attempts to improve and develop our local motorsports scene and talent – but there are very few that have actually been carried through to completion. Whether it’s because of reasons like funding withdrawal, or simply bad timing, it’s an issue that has grown worse over the years.

Motorsports is an expensive endeavour as it is. To be able to compete at even the lowest international level requires more money that most Malaysians can afford – so let’s instead look at our local scene. Entry into motorsports comes in a variety of forms – the most traditional being go karting as it provides a clearer route towards Formula cars and onwards to (hopefully) Formula 1.

There are also clubsport-level events like MSF, which runs multiple rounds a year and has a huge variety of classes. Everything from Saga Cup to full on ultra-light-weight race cars will run a couple of times a year, providing local drivers with a highly competitive environment. Drivers who have been in the motorsport world for decades as well as those who aren’t even old enough to get a driver’s license fight on the same stage, which is really incredible if you think about it.

The less orthodox approach is autocross or gymkhana, better known as a car park rally. These events are set up with a number of cones and a course is designed to test the abilities of drivers in a time-attack style format. While there is no wheel-to-wheel experience, these smaller events teach drivers a great deal about how best to drive a car as well as how to get right to the limit of grip in a safe space. Many drivers in this field go on to be stunt drivers or rally drivers, and some even see success on the circuit.

No matter which way you choose to enter this highly competitive world, development over the last few years has made it such that the cost of entry and the requirements are higher than ever. For example, smaller go-kart friendly tracks around the country have been in a state of flux between remaining open or being shuttered, which can play havoc with more committed junior karters who need the seat time and race experience to progress.

These small circuits are also usually host to smaller time-attack style events that is very prevalent among the grassroots of the motorsport world. Without these tracks, these events will slowly cease to exist – and it’s a constant battle between the land owners, property developers, and track management to keep the lights on and the doors open. As we mentioned before, Batu Tiga was one of the earlier casualties to this and we simply haven’t had a race track like it since.

Sepang International Circuit, despite its international recognition, is also a really unfavourable track for lower powered cars and smaller events. Not only does the track reward more powerful vehicles (to a certain extent), the cost of rental and operation is so staggeringly high that it makes it difficult for a lot of drivers to even show up for a track day. The design of the track is also incredibly punishing on brakes and tyres, meaning you’re probably going to have to change a set of either if you go for a particularly long stint on track.

So what do we really need? Well, having appropriately sized tracks would be a start. Batu Tiga or Pasir Gudang sized with good enough facilities to hold a good grid of racecars – and ideally one up north, one closer to the middle, and one down south of Peninsular Malaysia, as well as one for each state in East Malaysia. Having a decently sized, more affordable racetrack within one and a half hours of any person in the country is important to help with accessibility. This is the case in many countries like the UK or USA, and their small tracks are something to behold.

The second item that would be good is having dedicated tarmac-covered lots for gymkhana, autocross, and drifting events. Spaces like these have become fewer and further between in the last few years, with options dwindling and conditions worsening to the point where events can hardly be held in safety. It doesn’t take nearly as much investment as a track would, but it would provide a safe space to hold these events on a more regular basis, at a much lower price point.

You’ll notice that we haven’t even made a mention of organizers or sporting bodies – because the reality is that there are so many people who would be willing to take up the responsibility of organizing these events if there were only well priced resources available to them. MSF was even looking into having hillclimb events just before the MCO kicked in. In Thailand, pre-COVID-19, there was a motorsports event that gains national attention quite nearly every weekend – from drag racing, to circuit racing, to even higher end events. We could do the same here, if only we had the space and means.

And with an environment like that, we will see talents emerge. When the cost of entry is lower, more people will be happier to take it off the streets knowing they can drive as hard as they want and not have to break the bank or risk getting arrested to do it. It will be a place for younger drivers to grow and learn and hopefully be spotted by more professional teams – and just maybe then we’ll be back on the map again.


The Fastest BMW i8 On The Nurburgring Is Still Slower Than A Civic Type-R

BMW tuner AC Schnitzer (ACS) has notched up yet another record on the Nurburgring circuit, this time with one of its latest creations, based on the BMW (I12) i8 hybrid sports car.
The latest ACS tuned BMW i8 lapped the 22.8 km North Loop (Nordschleife) with a time of 8:19.80 in the hands of Touring Car driver Markus Oestreich, which makes it the fastest BMW i8 ever on the Nordschleife. But, while the ACS i8 isn't exactly slow, as you might surmise, it isn't exactly fast either - given the
(FK8) Honda Civic Type-R
 completed the North Loop some 30 secs faster,
at 7:43.80
.
We still think it's a cool-looking car though - with most of the car’s upgrades down to the functional and aggressive aero-kit and wheels.The engine remains largely as it left the factory. Mostly constructed from carbon, the kit consists a carbon bonnet, carbon front and side skirts, 3-piece carbon rear diffuser and carbon rear wing.
The ACS i8 is also fitted AC1 lightweight forged-alloy wheels measuring 21-inches front and rear. An ACS spring kit lowers the car by 25mm at the front and 20mm at the rear. Some interior accessories such as an aluminium pedal set, velour floor mats and an aluminium cover for the 'iDrive' controller sets the ACS i8 apart from the others.


Honda And General Motors Team Up to Produce Hydrogen Fuel Cell Systems

General Motors (GM) and Honda have formally announced the establishment of the auto industry’s first manufacturing joint venture to mass produce an advanced hydrogen fuel cell system and hydrogen storage systems that will be used in future products from both companies.
The company, Fuel Cell System Manufacturing LLC, will operate within GM’s existing battery pack manufacturing facility site in Brownstown, Michigan. Mass production of fuel cell systems is expected to begin around 2020 and create around 100 new jobs.
Both companies are making equal investments totalling USD85 million in the joint venture.
Honda and GM have been working together through a master collaboration agreement announced in July 2013. The companies integrated their development teams and shared hydrogen fuel cell intellectual property to create a more affordable commercial solution for fuel cell
GM and Honda are acknowledged leaders in fuel cell technology with more than 2,220 patents between them. In addition to advancing the performance of the fuel cell system, GM and Honda are working together to reduce the cost of development and manufacturing through economies of scale and common sourcing.
Takashi Sekiguchi, Chief Operating Officer of Automotive Operations, Honda Motor Co adds, “The expertise Honda has established that led to creation of the first-generation Clarity fuel cell system is valuable experience that we are leveraging in the joint development of the next-generation fuel cell system with GM.”
The next-generation in question, could be the next Honda Clarity Fuel Cell Vehicle (FCV). Honda began delivery of its all-new Clarity FCV to U.S. customers in December of 2016, following the
world-debut
 at the 2015 Tokyo Auto Show.
The collaboration will also see both companies work with governments and other stakeholders to further advance the refuelling infrastructure, critical for the long-term viability and consumer acceptance of FCVs.
Fuel cell technology addresses many of the major challenges facing automobiles today – petroleum dependency, emissions, efficiency, range and refuelling times.
FCVs can operate on hydrogen made from renewable sources such as wind and biomass. Water vapour is the only emission from fuel cell vehicles.


Thai Auto Industry: Five-year Car Ownership Period Too Long

In a bid to boost sluggish sales and to address ill-effects of the poorly thought out First-time Car Buyers Scheme, Thailand’s Excise Department and the Federation of Thai Industry’s (FTI) automotive club is urging Thailand’s Finance Ministry to shorten the minimum ownership period for cars bought under the scheme from the current five years to three.
The First Time Car Buyer’s Scheme was proposed by the previous Yingluck Shinawatra’s government. It offered excise duty rebates worth up to 100,000 Baht for Thai-made passenger cars below 1,500cc and pick-up trucks priced no more than 1 million Baht.
The controversial move was derided by many economists and Thai intellectuals as a populist move aimed at shoring up support from the masses, at the expense of future demand.
The predictions came true and after two years of unprecedented boom in new vehicle sales in 2012 and 2013 – reaching 1.45 million and 1.33 million respectively, Thailand’s domestic car market collapsed in 2014 when the scheme expired, dropping by nearly 34 percent to 881,832 units in 2014.
The boom in 2012 and 2013 was spurred by artificial demand and stole future demand for new cars, and also worsened household debt among many low-income Thais.
The market has yet to recover and the situation is worsened by an economic slump that is affecting many emerging markets in the region. In the first half of 2015, new vehicle sales in Thailand dropped 16.3 percent year-on-year to 369,109 units.
Thailand’s Excise Department proposal is supported by the FTI, reasoning that the move will allow cash-strapped buyers to sell their cars.
Surapong Paisitpatanapong, spokesman of the Federation of Thai Industries' (FTI) automotive club told the Bangkok Post, "Buyers can sell their own cars to pay debt or buy other essential consumer products or even new cars."
"This will boost the overall economic system," he added.
Mr Surapong estimates that as many as 112,000 buyers would be ready to sell their cars bought under the scheme if the condition on ownership was eased.
The Thai daily also added that a Finance Ministry source estimates that 600,000 to 700,000 cars would be freed up if the ownership period requirement was cut to three years (cars eligible to be sold).
However the source also added that there could be repercussions to the already soft used car market, and the move will affect resale values.


Perodua Awarded Silver At This Year’s Putra Brand Awards

The recent Putra Brand Awards 2015 saw
Perodua
 bag a silver, honoring companies like the local automaker that have been the most valuable and recognizable in the country, riding high on the success of their
Myvi
 and
Axia
 vehicles.
The Putra Brand Awards is the only brand awards here that is endorsed by MATRADE and supported by the Branding Association of Malaysia (BAM), as well as the Malaysian Advertises Association (MAA), and the Media Specialists Association (MSA).
The categories run the gamut from Apparel to Automotive, from Communication to Retail, and Perodua has emerged as a standout brand among the many in its sector.
“We are happy yet humble that Perodua was able to win so many hearts in Malaysia and we will strive to further improve ourselves for our customers,” Perodua President & Chief Executive Officer, Datuk Aminar Rashid Salleh said.
Related:
Toyota Makes It Four In A Row With Another Gold At The Putra Brand Awards


Tokyo Auto Salon is coming to KL in June 2023?

The
Tokyo Auto Salon
 will be organising a show right here in KL in June 2023. Is this the real life, or is this just fantasy?

It seems that there's already a Tokyo Auto Salon KL Facebook page as well as the 'official' Tokyo Auto Salon Kuala Lumpur official website, which looks legit but let's dive a little bit deeper to see if this is a hit or miss.

Tokyo Auto Salon KL - MITEC KL, 9-11 June 2023

Both the website and FB page indicate that the Tokyo Auto Salon KL event will take place at MITEC KL from 9-11 June 2023. The event will be organised by MUSE Group Asia and co-organised by Element X together with its official marketing partner, 36Five X.

The MUSE Group Asia FB page seems to have its location set in Bangkok, Thailand, but they have organised a few high-profile events such as Spartan Malaysia, L'Etape Malaysia, and more. As for the Tokyo Auto Salon KL event, not much else has been stated apart from the dates and location.

Event already listed under MITEC's event calendar

Upon further digging, we can also see that the Tokyo Auto Salon KL event has been listed under MITEC KL's event calendar on the same dates (9-11 June 2023). Some folks might still be skeptical about this, but this should bring some form of legitimacy before more details are unveiled in the coming months.

For now, the original Tokyo Auto Salon 2023 will take place at Makuhari Messe, one of Japan's largest convention centres located in Chiba, Japan. One of the highlights for the Japanese event will be an entry from Malaysia's very own
Retro Havoc
 and their build, the
world's first Ford Escort Mk2 Pandem
 nicknamed "Emotion". Malaysia represents in Japan, yet again!


Myth or Fact: Do You Need To Let Your Car Warm Up First Before You Drive It?

Myth or Fact: Do you need to let your car warm up first before you drive it?

This is probably one of the earliest car-related myths you’ve ever known about, but depending on when you heard it, this might have been common practice which was actually recommended for the
healthy upkeep
 of your engine.

Warming up your car would usually involve starting up the engine and leaving it running for a certain period of time before actually putting it in gear and starting to drive. On a purely logical basis, this makes perfect sense.

If likened to our own bodies, which needs to be ‘warmed up’ and/or stretched before a run or performing strenuous activities, why wouldn’t our engines benefit from something similar? After all, the engine, like our hearts, need to be primed and pumping at their peak to perform best.

First of all, we’re assuming that you’re reading this in Malaysia, in which case you’ll know just how unforgivingly warm and humid our climate can be, as well as how temperamental our weather patterns are. Our cars, even sitting at room temperature on any given day, are considered fairly warm by most standards in more temperate countries.

Paved With Good Intentions

Even in countries with legitimately cold weather, even in the grip of winter, leaving your car in an extended idling period upon start up has little to no benefit in prolonging the life of an engine. If the purpose here is to get the powertrain up to operating temperature as quickly and safely as possible, merely driving is the best way to do that.

In extremely low temperature conditions, contrary to traditional wisdom, it could be even more detrimental to your engine if left to idle from start as the low oil temperature will struggle to gain heat and therefore not exhibit its normal flow characteristics, stripping oil away from vital parts and possibly even starving the engine of lubrication.

The main reason why any advantage to warming up your engine is negated in modern cars is that
current internal combustion engines
 have long eschewed carburetors in favour of fuel injection, helped by a multitude of sensors and computers to accurately and responsively alter the air to fuel ratio for optimal combustion, replacing the manually deployable  ‘choke’ valve to temporarily restrict air intake and 'force' a richer mixture.

Therefore, during cold starts in a modern car, with the main aim being to get the engine internals and fluids up to operating temperature at an accelerated pace, the ECU instructs the fuel system to run a richer mixture of petrol/diesel to air (basically just upping the concentration of fuel). You may have noticed a higher idling RPM as a result.

It’s Getting Hot In Here

However, in addition to increased fuel consumption, this surplus of fuel being burnt also generates more heat, which needs flowing air to efficiently dissipate through the
radiator’s heat exchangers
. This is a problem if you’re not moving.

Basically, driving your car is the fastest way to get the engine warm so that the ECU can revert to its normal (more efficient) air/fuel ratio, but this doesn’t mean it's an excuse to drive your car hard just after pulling out of your driveway. This will only put avoidable strain and considerable wear on your engine, so try your best to have a chill drive until your car is nice and warm.

Some cars, usually the more expensive and higher performance ones, are even getting a little too clever in an annoying way, cheekily enforcing an electronic limit on how many RPMs you can access until it deems the engine ready.

The Real Killer

Everyone who has left their car 'warming up' by idling at startup when it was doing more harm than good has probably done so with good intent: to keep their cars happy and healthy for longer. Hopefully with this little explainer, they’ll see the error in their ways.

That being said, there’s really no avoiding the
real enemy to longevity of our engines
: idling itself. This is the villain. The big bad. The final boss battle.

Sitting still with no movement while your car is still running (a.k.a idling) is the single most inefficient and unhealthy thing you could be doing to your engine under normal conditions. Heat is continually being generated without any flowing air from the environment to cool and disperse it. Imagine being forced to do jumping jacks in a sauna. Not too comfortable is it?

Unfortunately, some idling is unavoidable since traffic is part of most of our daily lives. The engine is running, burning fuel, generating heat that leaves our poor radiator all but overwhelmed, and yet you’re not moving an inch. Worse, the cars around you, all bunched together, are doing the same thing, and expelling hot gasses from their exhausts.

Newer technologies like automatic start-stop literally circumvent this by turning your engine off temporarily, which is a rather blunt solution, leaving the electronics and auxiliary systems to rely on an onboard battery instead of a parasitic alternator. Still, the best remedy here is to avoid situations where your car will be left to idle as much as possible by planning your journey ahead of time.

With the intention of warming the engine, leaving your car idling after starting it up is analogous to being deliberately stuck in a traffic jam, an experience that’s universally disliked every motorist out there, but most of all by your car, so stop doing it.
It is totally unnecessary.


Quick Review: Subaru Forester e-Boxer Sampled In Singapore

Just ahead of the 2019 Singapore Motor Show, Motor Image gave us the opportunity to sample the new Subaru Forester e-Boxer, the hybrid variant of the fifth-generation model.
To recap, the Forester e-Boxer is the first Subaru model to receive the e-Boxer treatment, the second model being the new generation Subaru XV.
Visually, the Forester e-Boxer adds several discreet emblems under the side mirrors and one on the tailgate. Other than that, the hybrid variant of the Forester is visually indistuinguishable from the regular Forester.
The biggest change is under the hood of the Forester - Subaru engineers have managed to fit a 13.5 hp/65 Nm electric motor into the CVT assembly, creating a mild hybrid variant of the Forester. Power for the electric motor comes from a 4.8 Ah lithium-ion battery pack that’s located in the boot. As a result, boot space is slightly smaller at 509 litres, while the regular petrol variant of the Forester’s boot space comes in at 520 litres.
Behind the wheel of the Forester e-Boxer, we noticed that acceleration was marginally slower than the two rivals – hybrid variants of the Toyota C-HR and Honda Vezel (Better known to us as the Honda HR-V).
Granted, the Subaru Forester is a considerably larger and heavier vehicle than the other two, but once the Forester gained sufficient momentum, we achieved identical speeds at the end of the straight line just before the braking point that leads into the slalom section.
Through the slalom course, the Forester’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system really came into play, as the system kept the Forester’s composure well, even when the SUV was subjected to wet surfaces. Unlike the other two rivals, the Forester felt surefooted throughout the entire course, further cementing its off-roading credentials.
Other standard equipment on the Forester e-Boxer include:
EyeSight driver assistance system
DriverFocus system
Power tailgate
Powered sunroof
Powered seats up front, with memory function for driver
18-inch alloy wheels
The Forester e-Boxer won’t be arriving in Malaysia any time soon, but the regular non-hybrid variant of the Forester is expected to be introduced within the second quarter of the year.


Mitsubishi CNY Promotions – Own An ASX From RM99,000

Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia (MMM), the official distributor of Mitsubishi vehicles in Malaysia has announced it is now offering attractive promotions in conjunction with the upcoming Chinese New Year celebrations.
According to MMM, customers can enjoy CNY bonuses of up to RM20,000 when they purchase a new Mitsubishi from today till 14 February.
Additionally, MMM is also hosting an ‘Xperience Mitsubishi’ contest, whereby interested parties need to record a video about their Mitsubishi experience after test driving any Mitsubishi models. After that, participants need to upload their videos on Facebook or Instagram with the #Mitsubishi4me hashtag to stand a chance to win RM10,000 in cash.
Last but not least, MMM will also be hosting an exclusive ‘New Year New Ride’ CNY showroom even at the below showrooms.
Customers who test drive any Mitsubishi models during the event stand a chance to win RM888 cash prizes or Ralliart merchandize. On top of that, customers who place a booking on the event day will also receive a Ralliart dry bag and CNY money packet.


iCarData: The Best Time To Buy/Sell A (T6) Ford Ranger 2.2 XLT Hi-Rider 4x4

The used-car market is ripe with good deals at the moment. We check out just how well the popular 2015 (T6) Ford Ranger has fared over the years.

From relative outsider to mainstream cool – in the last 10 years or so, trucks have become a major player not only in the commercial vehicles sector but also as a lifestyle centric vehicle for families.

Given its rugged style, rock-solid reliability go-anywhere credentials and crucially brutish looks – trucks have evolved over the years form crude and functional to purposeful and stylish – making them massively appealing to a variety of buyers up and down the price spectrum.

To some buyers, a truck is multi-purposed work/life vehicle, to others, it might be a family carrier 5 days of the week, but an off-road adventurer on the weekends – and growing number of buyers simply want the high-riding stance, and gargantuan size, but would likely never take it off tarmac roads.

A lot of this is down to their pricetag. Pickup trucks benefit from favourable taxation structures (which still gazette them as commercial vehicles) allowing them to be exempted of import and excise duties. With prices starting at just over RM90k (double-cab, automatic variants); one gets a lot of car for the money. Also given, their usability and reliability, tend to retain value handsomely down the line.

Recently we reported on the perennial Toyota Hilux, arguably the pickup that started it all. However, if the Hilux was the one that started it all, it was the Ford Ranger that took it a step further, offering a step-up in styling, premium interior appointments, and powerful drivetrains.

In this report, we will be looking at the residual value of the (T6) Ford Ranger using iCarData.

Our in-house developed
iCarData
, collates data from thousands of used vehicle deals that have been listed on Carlist.my throughout the years. Hence, by filtering our search for listings of a particular model throughout the measured timeframe, we are able to track with substantial accuracy the rates of depreciation of any vehicle as they were featured in the period.

These algorithm-based data provides unmatched clarity with regard to the natural depreciation of any car. Thus, helping both buyers and sellers make prudent financial decisions with regards to buying or selling their car.

Check out some of our other iCarData features on popular models such as the
Toyota Hilux
 and
Mazda 6
.

Overview

The T6 Ranger range was first introduced here in 2012. The T6 generation brought about a comprehensive revamp of the chassis, frame, suspension, brakes, engines and bodywork. The T6 was crucially 186 mm longer, while wheelbase grew by a further 220 mm over its predecessor – aiding both cargo capacity and occupant space. Other highlights included an impressive 800 mm water wading depth and cargo-carrying capacity of 1,333 kg.

The new Duratorq 2.2L turbodiesel offered 150 PS and 375 Nm, while the larger 3.2L turbodiesel outputted a whopping 200 PS and 470 Nm in the range-topping Wildtrak variant. Engines were paired to either six-speed manual or six-speed automatic. Three variants were introduced at launch with more added along its lifespan leading up to the facelift model which landed here in 2015.

Here’s a shortlist of the T6 Ranger’s presence in Malaysia:

June 2012 – T6 Ford Ranger launched. Three variants priced between RM90k and RM117k.

February 2013 – Ranger XL manual introduced. RM79,888.

May 2013 – Ranger XL Lo-Rider and single-cab added to the line-up, RM69,999 and RM71,888 respectively.

August 2013 – Ranger 3.2L XLT launched at RM99,888.

May 2014 – T6 range updated, now with Stability Control as standard, five three-point seatbelts and ISOFIX anchors.

August 2015 – Ranger Special Edition (limited to 100 units), based on the 2.2L XLT automatic with additional accessories; retails at RM108k.

October 2015 – T6 Ranger introduced. Six variants at launch, updated exterior design, more power in the 2.2L (158 hp/ 385 Nm); three variants offered with 3.2L turbodiesel. Redesigned dashboard, and improved Ford Sync2 infotainment system 3.2L Wildtrak.

March 2017 - Ford Ranger 3.2L WildTrak Jet Black edition launched at RM142k.

April 2017 - Ford Ranger 2.2L FX4 introduced at RM121,888.

Sept 2017 – Ford Ranger XL Standard entry-level double-cab added to the range at RM84k.

October 2018 – Updated Ford Ranger lineup introduces eight variants including much-awaited Ranger Raptor model. Prices between RM90,800 for 2.2L XL single-cab manual to RM144,888 for 2.0L Wildtrak automatic.

For this report, we will be looking at the 2015 (production year) facelifted T6 Ford Ranger 2.2L XLT automatic which slotted below the 3.2-litre variants. The 2.2L XLT was the most popular and is amongst the longest-serving variants of the T6 Ranger’s lifespan – popular amongst private buyers who were looking for a good combination of premium features and trademark Ranger ability at value-for-money prices.

Specifications of the 2015 (T6) facelifted Ford Ranger (Double Cab) 2.2 XLT Hi-Rider Automatic

Engine: 2.2-litre (ZSD-422) inline-four turbocharged, diesel

Power: 158 hp @ 3,200 rpm

Torque: 385 Nm @ 1,600

Transmission: 6-speed automatic, 4x4 AWD

Safety: Two airbags, ABS with EBD, Stability Control, Hill-Start Assist

Origin: Assembled in Thailand by Ford Thailand Manufacturing, Rayong.

Price: RM108,788 (Metallic) – Oct 2015 launch (OTR without insurance)

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

Vehicle variant: (T6) 2015 Ford Ranger Double Cab 2.2 XLT Automatic, delivered between Oct and Dec 2015.

Depreciation is calculated using the original list price of RM108,788.

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

The singular 2015 Ford Ranger 2.2 XLT automatic (metallic) 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 3.2L Wildtrak automatic variant also 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

Depreciation analysis

If anything, the depreciation of the T6 Ranger seems to stabilise after the first year of ownership. Though it must be said that an approximate 20 percent first-year drop in residual value for the 2.2 XLT variant is pretty substantial.

That figure is normally closer to 12-15 percent. The substantial drop could be attributed to the 2016 introduction of the eight-generation Toyota Hilux, and from within Ford's own stable - the 3.2L XLT which retailed for roughly RM10k more.

The depreciation levels remain steady for the next four years of the measured period - dropping between 5 and 9 percent year-on-year.

Though it must be said, that the value retention of the Ranger is far more susceptible to outside forces from established competitors and shifting market trends than the Toyota Hilux and Isuzu D-Max, both which enjoy more stable demand given their workhorse credentials.

The Ranger, on the other hand, manages to bridge a more lifestyle buyer base and as such probably has a more finicky buyer base. A slightly higher maintenance regime from what we have learnt from fellow Ford Ranger could be another factor.

However, with cumulative depreciation rates and retained value just about to intersect in the fifth-year of ownership its safe to say that owners can retain their Ranger into the fifth- or sixth-year of ownership without losing too much money.

The average selling price will likely be comparable hire-purchase loan amounts - so while sellers might not walk away with cash in hand for their next purchase, they might not lose too much when selling their Rangers.

As for buyers, they can ideally choose to buy the Ranger in the fifth- or sixth years of the car's lifespan. By now, these vehicles costs roughly half of what they used when brand new, and most financing options are still accessible at this point.

Another point to consider for used Ranger buyers is that most of these vehicles double up as long-distance haulers - hence buyers should be selective in sourcing lower mileage examples, preferably with full and complete service records.

For some great deals on the T6 Ford Ranger, click
here
.

If you're looking to sell your Ford Ranger we have two solutions for you too. List in on carlist.my or better still, use
CarlistBid
 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.


Honda Civic Awarded 5-Star ASEAN NCAP Rating

The tenth-generation
Honda Civic
 has been awarded the 5-star rating in the New Car Assessment Program for South East Asian Countries (ASEAN NCAP). The Honda Civic achieved a score of 14.74 in Adult Occupant Protection (AOP) and a 4-star rating in Child Occupant Protection (COP).
The official 4-star overall rating (cover pic) was benchmarked using a Thai-market base spec Honda Civic 1.8E which is not supplied with Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and Seat Belt Reminder (SBR) systems as standard. The ESC and SBR systems are a pre-requisite to achieve the full 5-star rating.
Rest assured, all Honda Civic models sold in Malaysia qualify for the full 5-star rating due to the comprehensive suite of safety features which include ABS, EBD, ESC, six-airbags and ISOFIX top tethers on the two outer rear seats. These safety features are supplied as standard across the range.


The 2021 Mazda CX-3 Is Bringing Sexy Back In A Big Way

The 2021 Mazda CX-3 is bringing sexy back, in a big way. The trendy compact crossover SUV has been a mainstay of the
Malaysian motoring scene since 2015
, now receiving a
plethora of updates
to take it past the competition, and vibe perfectly with your lifestyle aspirations.

Starting with its futuristic and ageless KODO design – which fuses complex surfaces with seamless lines that flow front to back with its eye-catching expression of dynamic motion that creates a bold statement of charismatic style. The 2021 Mazda CX-3 adds all-LED exterior lighting as standard (headlights, taillights, and DRLs) to beam a sleek signature from any angle. For 2021, the LED headlights have automatic on/off and automatic levelling capabilities for additional safety and convenience.

The 2021 Mazda CX-3 is styled with 18-inch alloy wheels, a roof spoiler, shark fin antenna, dual exhaust outlets, and an understated 3D horizontal slats front grille design that brings great depth and distinction. Newly added exterior features include a power sunroof as well as front parking sensors.

Look under the hood and you’ll find Mazda's tried and tested SKYACTIV-G 2.0 four-cylinder petrol engine, which produces 154 horsepower at 6,000 RPM and 206 Nm of torque from just 2,800 RPM.

The engine is mated to the company’s SKYACTIV-DRIVE 6-Speed automatic transmission with Manual Shift mode and Mazda’s ground-breaking ‘full range lock-up clutch’. This seamlessly connects the engine and gearbox for a manual transmission-like feel and response, thereby taking the ‘slush’ out of the ‘slushbox’.

This and other advancements such as
Mazda’s G-Vectoring Control
 technology that works by modulating the engine’s response to augment the vehicle’s weight balance and G-Forces cohesively contribute to a unique feel when driving any Mazda. This is called ‘Jinba-Ittai’, which refers to the intuitiveness and clarity in how a Mazda performs dynamically, such that it feels like an extension of your thoughts are being transferred to the road.

Like horse and rider, Jinba-Ittai doesn’t just refer to the vehicle’s engine or suspension or even steering systems but starts with how one sits in the car, and how our bodies interact with the car's controls. Mazda places extreme importance on getting the basics right with
its human-centric design philosophy
 – down to the extent of studying the driver’s posture and muscle movements when steering or shifting a gear, before deciding how to design a car’s cockpit.

Speaking of the cockpit, the elegant and well-appointed cabin space of the 2021 Mazda CX-3 has been duly updated with new leatherette upholstery and crucially an updated infotainment system for all your in-car entertainment needs.

The 7-inch Mazda Connect Infotainment System with Voice Command is now optimised with Apple CarPlay™ & Android Auto™ connectivity, beaming your hard-hitting tracks through a six-speaker audio system. All these features can be easily accessed through the multi-function commander control knob or steering wheel-mounted switches.

A notable first in its class, the 2021 Mazda CX-3 also features the Active Driving Display – a Heads-Up Display (HUD) which displays your driving speed on a translucent screen directly in your field of view, thereby keeping your focus on what’s important…the road ahead.

Given its premise of being a fun compact crossover for the whole family – the 2021 Mazda CX-3 doesn’t sell itself short
when it comes to safety
. Standard safety technologies include 6-airbags (Front Driver & Passenger, Side and Curtain), Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS), Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), Electronic Brake-Force Distribution (EBD), Emergency Brake Assist (EBA), Traction Control System (TCS), Emergency Stop Signal (ESS), Auto Hold Function, and Hill Launch Assist (HLA).

In addition, the Walk Away Lock function is also available in the 2021 Mazda CX-3 – for your additional safety needs.

Add to that, a full accompaniment of active safety features that help to mitigate an accident or collision before it even occurs. Mazda’s i-ACTIVSENSE suite of advanced safety features now adds High Beam Control (HBC), Lane Departure Warning System (LDWS), Driver Attention Alert (DAA), and Smart City Brake Support (SCBS) for the Front & Rear, in addition to previously offered features such as Blind Spot Monitoring with Rear Cross Traffic Alert.

When buying your 2021 Mazda CX-3, take your pick from five striking colours; namely Soul Red Crystal, Snowflake White Pearl, Deep Crystal Blue, Machine Gray, and new for 2021, Polymetal Gray.

The fully imported 2021 Mazda CX-3 is now available at Mazda showrooms nationwide, the selling price for the vehicle starts from just RM130,729. The current price tag includes SKYTINT* and the Government’s lucrative 50 percent Sales Tax Reduction (SST) on CBU models, valid from now until 31st Dec 2021 (while stocks last).

The selling price is also inclusive of a 5-Years Manufacturer Warranty* + 5-Years Free Maintenance Service (inclusive of labour, parts and lubricants)*. Both Manufacturer Warranty and Free Maintenance Service have a coverage period of five years and a mileage limit of 100,000km (whichever comes first), for total peace of mind.

*Terms and conditions apply


India’s Most Iconic Car; the Ambassador is Now French

After Rajinikanth and Shah Rukh Khan, the next most popular thing in India is probably the Hindustan Ambassador car. Wait, how did we forget about Aishwaria Rai?
Anyways, unlike the two actors who are still going strong today, the Ambassador had to give way to newer brands like Maruti-Suzuki that have taken over the country’s automotive landscape.
Hence, it was inevitable that the car’s fame and epic journey came to an end three years ago when it was discontinued.
After some time, yesterday, Hindustan Motors; the Ambassador’s parent company reportedly announced that it has sold the brand to PSA Peugeot-Citroen.
According to
a report by the Times of India
, The C K Birla Group-owned Hindustan Motors sold the Ambassador brand to the French for 12 million USD last Friday.
"We have executed an agreement with the Peugeot SA Group for the sale of the brand Ambassador, including the trademarks. We intend to use the proceeds from the sale to clear dues of employees and lenders," a CK Birla Group spokesperson said.
With PSA announcing their plans to make a re-entry into the Indian market in 2018, there are possibilities for the French to use Ambassador as the name of a new low-end sub-brand for India, similar to how Nissan brought back the Datsun brand.
But then again, that is just our speculation and Peugeot has not said anything on what exactly it intends to do with the Ambassador brand.
It is said that PSA also intends to use Hindustan Motors’ plant in Chennai, which currently produces Mitsubishis with an annual capacity of 12,000 units, to build its own cars in the near future.


Should Toyota Launch The Vios GR Sport And Corolla GR Sport Together?

The Toyota Corolla has already been wearing the company’s GR Sport badge alongside the accompanying semi-sport aesthetic in multiple markets, including Thailand where the C-segment saloon is still known as the Altis (reminds us of simpler times).

Earlier this year, too, the Corolla GR Sport had been
introduced in Taiwan
 of all places, making us wonder even more how hard UMW Toyota Malaysia might be lobbying for its arrival (or not) to our shores. With the rumours swirling of a new Vios variant fitted with some TRD-like touches, it would be nice to see the automaker surprise us with a duo of sporty new members to the local line-up.

It would certainly give both would-be Vios and Corolla buyers a little extra push in their direction, given that both cars are a little on the tame side. Particularly obvious is on the side of the larger model where the car’s natural proportions and athletic build give it so much potential to look properly aggressive given the right visual enhancements.

Other markets such as North America and Australia already have the Corolla in more varied and aggressive trim, though they contrast the exterior with a powertrain (usually hybrid) that’s more interested in fuel efficiency with dynamics to match.

For example, the Altis GR Sport in Thailand is powered by the same 1.8-litre naturally aspirated 2ZR-FBE - producing 140PS and 177Nm - that’s found in the Malaysian-spec Corolla. Paired to a CVT that drives the front wheels, it’s far from an autocross stormer but decent nonetheless. Most importantly, it’s a car that’s worthy of more imposing looks.

Onto the Vios GR Sport. Even its name is a point of heated conjecture as some contend it will be labelled TRD (at least in some markets) like past Vios generations. The leaked partly concealed red car spotted by
RiderAth
 had its most important bits covered up but did expose its gloss black alloy wheels wearing a set of Toyo tyres. Very apt.

Aside from the cosmetic enhancements (over the
recent facelift
) that litter the exterior and interior, we do wonder if there will be any alterations made to endow the car with tighter driving characteristics over the standard Vios. Under the bonnet, expect to find the same 2NR-FE 1.5-litre naturally aspirated four-cylinder with 107PS and 140Nm, mated to a CVT (with 7 virtual pre-set ratios) with paddle shifters in a front-wheel drive configuration.

Given the near-finished condition of the car, a Vios GR Sport hitting Malaysian showrooms looks to be on the cards for the near future. Our only hope here is that UMW Toyota chooses to include the Corolla GR Sport. Fingers crossed!

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.

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Carlist.my.

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CarlistBid.my
.


DUKE to implement open toll system, also to become second location for MLFF trials

Another week, another announcement about a highway embracing the open toll payment system, this time, it's the Duta-Ulu Kelang Expressway (DUKE), a highway that connects the areas of Kuala Lumpur, Petaling Jaya, and Ampang.

According to Bernama, Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi confirmed the matter, saying that
DUKE’s participation meant the number of highways involved has increased to 12
. All of the highways involved will implement the open payment system starting this September.

Nanta also took the opportunity to announce that DUKE highways has been chosen as the second location for the implementation of the Proof of Concept (POC) for the Multi Lane Fast Flow (MLFF) system.

This makes DUKE the second highway after the Sungai Besi Expressway to test MLFF before it is implemented on all highways.

“As we all know, the implementation of the open toll payment system is an initial preparation for the transition towards MLFF before it is fully implemented in phases by the third quarter of 2024," said Nanta.

“This effort is hoped to provide an opportunity for the government, concession companies and the parties involved to identify and resolve all issues that may hinder the smooth implementation of the MLFF in the future.” he continued.

The transition to MLFF is expected to be implemented in phases by the third quarter of 2024.

List of highways that will implement the open toll payment system thus far.

Sungai Besi Expressway

New Pantai Expressway

Ampang-Kuala Lumpur Elevated Highway

Guthrie Corridor Expressway

Penang Bridge

Butterworth-Kulim Expressway

Damansara-Puchong Expressway

SPRINT Highway

Shah Alam Expressway

SMART Tunnel

Kuala Lumpur-Putrajaya Expressway

Duta-Ulu Kelang Expressway


SPAD Still On The Fence On Banning Or Regulating Ride-Sharing Services

The Land Public Transport Commission has been juggling decisions on whether or not to outright ban or to take steps to begin regulating ride-sharing services such as Uber and GrabCar.
As of now, SPAD’s enforcement has been methodically
seizing vehicles
 they have encountered during various operations as recently as last week.
According to
The Star
, the commission’s chief executive officer Mohd Azharuddin Mat Sah said “We understand the solutions provided by Uber and GrabCar, and the sentiments of the people towards it,”
Azharuddin was asked on the commission’s stance on the matter, including supposed plans to
further clamp down
 on drivers associated with these services.
With some claiming a more than 20 percent dip in income over recent months, taxi drivers are near-unanimously calling for the authorities to outlaw these services once and for all.
Azharuddin added that while these ride-sharing services did not fit into SPAD’s existing legal framework, solutions would have to be found “toward this new technology”.
An online petition in support of Uber against the local taxi industry has been making the rounds on social media, with a reported 2,000 signatures gathered by 6pm yesterday.
Meanwhile, in his comments to The Star, Federal Territories and Selangor Taxi Association president Datuk Aslah Abdullah remained firmly against any quarter given to ride-sharing cars on the road:
“That is something wrong. If you allow illegal taxis ... it’s like the law of the jungle,” adding that Uber and GrabCar vehicles had to be subject to the same rules and procedures that governed taxis here.


Malaysian Roads 12th Worst In The World - Even Mexico Has Better Roads!

Malaysia is in the very bottom half when it comes to road quality, according to driver education firm Zutobi.

Out of 59 countries, Malaysia has been ranked the
12th worst when it comes to road quality
. The data was released by driver education firm Zutobi, based on a study titled 'Worst and Best Roads-US and International Ranking'.

According to the study, the quality of roads in Malaysia
fell by more than 5%
 in the past five years but what's more alarming is that our roads recorded the second highest number of road deaths at 22.76 per 100,000 population. Only Arab Saudi has more.

"More than 22 road deaths per 100,000 people have occurred on highways in Malaysia, thus becoming the second highest number of deaths in the world after Saudi Arabia," said the report.

The same data shows that Kuwait is also listed as the country with the worst roads in the world, followed by Costa Rica, Georgia, Panama and New Zealand. Kuwait has the third highest number of road traffic deaths with 19 deaths per 100,000 population.

According to the report, our neighbours Singapore has the best road quality in the world as well as the lowest road death which is 1.69 per 100,000 population.

However, we're not bad at everything, as the report stated that Malaysia has the lowest number of alcohol-related road deaths at just 0.1%. We are however one of the more lenient countries when it comes to blood alcohol concentration levels for drivers, coming in at 50mg Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC)/0.05% alcohol level on breathalyzer reading.

Just to put it into context, England has an 80mg Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC)/0.08% alcohol level on breathalyzer reading, while Indonesia has 0 as they do not tolerate drunk driving at all.


Planning The Great Escape: Post MCO

If you're like us, you're probably dreaming of being in your gleaming car, driving towards the sunset somewhere, enjoying that exotic location that you've just discovered. It's incredible how things change, because pre lockdown, we dreamt of different things, but now, driving somewhere for a chance of a little adventure is mostly what we think about.

What we once took for granted is now one of the most precious commodities.  If there is anything that we can learn from this horrendous lockdown, is that driving is one of the most pleasurable activities one can do. Even grocery runs are exciting at the moment because you get to DRIVE.

You are probably even now hatching a plan of what to do and where to go when this whole COVID-19 pandemic blows over. It's high on the brain's agenda, and since flying will not happen in the near future, driving to a destination in Semenanjung Malaysia will be the quickest form of escape. Besides, we get to drive our lovely cars out of Klang Valley, so big win there.

1.

Penarik, Terengganu (Long Drive, 390KM)

If you're after a drive that's more than 4 hours long, Penarik should do the trick. With many options of routes from highways to inner B-roads, you can tailor-make your journey as you wish. Perhaps drive up by using all the smaller roads for that loving feeling and drive back using the straight highway. Whichever routes you choose you'll be happy with this northern location, especially if you're looking for a secluded beachfront accommodation that has a white beach and blue sea. Penarik itself is a small town, so don't expect urban commercial shops. However, the area does have plenty of seafood joints to visit and small local independent grocers. Did we mention that everything there is cheap! And that there is virtually no traffic to get to Penarik! Thank us later.

2. Langkawi (Long Drive+Boat Ride, 413KM)

If you feel up to it, drive to Langkawi instead. Yes, you will need to take a boat to get to the Island, but it will be worth it. The classic mistake that most people do is park their car in mainland Perlis and take a boat to Langkawi. Firstly, the passenger ferries are always crowded; secondly you don't get to enjoy your car in Langkawi. We suggest taking the RORO as the boat is not crowded, and you actually get to enjoy the boat ride via the outside of the ship instead of being locked up inside it like the passenger ferry. Having your own car in Langkawi is such a pleasure. There are so many beautiful places in Langkawi to experience, and you will need your trusty steed to get you around. The roads in Langkawi are nice and quiet too, so the drive on the Island is entirely stress-free.

3. Port Dickson (Short Drive Turn Long, 100km)

Yes, yes, we've all been there before, and there is nothing that exciting to do there, right? Wrong, because it's the journey that counts not the destination. Instead of heading via the Sungai Besi toll where, you will travel straight for 45mins and then enter Port Dickson toll, why not drive to PD via the back roads. Admittedly we did quite recently try this out but on motorbikes. We don't see why car drivers won't enjoy it too. There are many quiet small roads with swooping bends and sharp turns that allow your inner Ken Miles to come alive. Surprisingly, these back roads are well tarred, not what you expect when you think of back roads. Head to Sepang and try to make your way to PD via the back roads from there. Just switch on the option on your WAZE or Google Maps to avoid highways. We also took the back roads to Melaka from PD, and those roads were pretty impressive too. If it doesn't impress you, at least Melaka's Asam Pedas will.

So there you have it, three drives that should scratch that itch a little. For now we can dream and plan. Once the MCO is lifted and the coast is clear expect to see us on the roads!


Four Things To Do After A Road Accident

If you drive regularly, the statistics suggests that sooner or later, you will be involved in an accident. The only question left is how severe will the accident be. Hopefully, with a bit defensive driving and due care on your part, it will be nothing more than the inconvenience of a fender bender.

With that in mind, every driver should at least equip themselves with the dos and don’ts of what to do after being involved in an accident.

Of course, the biggest ‘do’ here is to learn and equip yourself with defensive driving techniques that could help you avoid an accident in the first place. Read your vehicle’s owner’s manual, familiarize yourself with the different safety features in your vehicle and how to best use them.

Having taken all the necessary precautions, if you still do get involved in an accident, here’s a quick list of dos and don’ts:

1. Your safety is the top priority

It is a myth that you must not move your vehicle after you have met with an accident, as leaving your car in a dangerous position puts you and other road users at risk. If it’s still possible to move your vehicle, park it at the road shoulder, keep the hazard lights on, and put up a safety triangle. Avoid parking right after a corner. Walk to somewhere safe and away from passing traffic, preferably behind some form of barrier between you and passing traffic.

2. Exchange details

If it’s safe to do so, note down the details of the other vehicle(s). Note down the time, date, and location of the accident, as well the vehicle details, driver’s license, and road tax expiration date of the other party/parties. Do consider investing in a good quality digital video recorder. They are not admissible in court (yet), but they can be useful in supporting your argument later on.

You can also snap photos of the affected vehicles, but do avoid taking photos of the other driver(s) to avoid aggravating the situation any further.

If the other party/parties are behaving in a threatening manner, it is OK to go ahead to make your police report with only the number plate of the vehicle(s) involved.

3. Towing

Tow trucks are always on the lookout for accident-hit vehicles and can be remarkably fast to an accident scene. The unscrupulous ones will use all sorts of scare tactics to pressure you into using their services, but stay calm and avoid signing any documents or passing the keys of your vehicle to them.

Call the hotline of your own roadside assistance programme, and ask for the number plate of the appointed tow truck that is assigned to you. Wait for your appointed tow truck to arrive.

4. Making a police report

Depending on the severity of the damage, you can decide to either pay for the repairs yourself to avoid losing any No Claims Discounts (NCD) or to file for an insurance claim. Either way, it is recommended that you make a police report to avoid the other party from accusing you of something else.

For the uninitiated, the NCD is a discount for yearly insurance premium progressively-awarded to motorists that manage to avoid making claims on their policy. The rate starts at 25% after the first year without incident and rises to a maximum of 55% at the end of the fifth year. With each claim, your NCD is lost and you will have to earn it from scratch again. In deciding to make your claims, weigh the cost of losing your NCD against the cost of your repairs. Your NCD is not affected, however, when you make a third-party claim against the other vehicle’s insurance. Your NCD can be transferred between any vehicles registered under your name, but it does not follow your vehicle if and when you decide to sell it.

Below are the steps to make a police report. If you would like to get a copy of the police report, you will be charged a small fee. An investigation report will be completed in about a week or two. If you are found to be guilty, barring any serious offences, you will also have to pay a RM300 fine.

Apart from these steps, drivers should also review their motor insurance and compare the benefits provided.

Insurance providers like Allianz for example, offer a very comprehensive roadside assistance program (Allianz Enhanced Road Warrior) that provides benefits like 24-hour unlimited towing distance, arrangements for a replacement car and hotel accommodation, covering not just Malaysia but also Thailand and Singapore.


Book A Volkswagen This Month And Receive RM1,000 Merdeka Voucher

In conjunction with the country’s 62nd National Day celebrations, Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM) is offering customers who book a Volkswagen model in the month of August with an additional “Merdeka Voucher” worth RM1,000.
This “Merdeka Voucher” is for all Volkswagen models, in addition of ongoing promotions, and is applicable for all booking made from now till 31 August 2019 (subject to terms and conditions while stocks last).
The list of models and savings are listed below:
There is also the ongoing promotion on the Tiguan and Passat range, which currently comes with an extension of the three-year free maintenance up to five-year free maintenance with a low interest rate of 1.88% per annum for new car buyers before 31
st
 December 2019.
All Volkswagen cars come with 3 years free maintenance, 5 years unlimited mileage warranty and 5 years roadside assistance.
Other Ongoing Aftersales Promotions:
1) Shock Absorbers
Existing owners can enjoy a complimentary check at Volkswagen service centres, while those who are due for an absorber change will receive additional 20% discount off the retail price. This discount is applicable on genuine Volkswagen shock absorbers and coil springs.
2) Tyres
As part of the ongoing tyre promotion which has been extended till the end of the year, enjoy low high-quality durable tyres from as low as RM184 and get additional benefits such as free installation, alignment and balancing depending on the different tyre packages.
3) Battery
Those in need of a battery change will receive 20% discount off new batteries starting from RM365 (depending on model), under the ongoing battery promotion, which has also been extended till the end of the year.
Looking for a new Volkswagen? Find the best deals
here
.


All-New Volkswagen Touareg Premiered in China

Late last week, Volkswagen presented the all-new Touareg, the brand’s new flagship, in China - it’s most important market. Last year, Volkswagen sold 3.2 million units (400,000 units are SUVs) in China, translating to a market share of 13%.
Worldwide sales of the past two generations of the Touareg model amount to nearly 1 million units since its launch in 2002.
Now in its third generation, the all-new Touareg is moderately wider (+44 mm) and longer (+77 mm). The added exterior length (whilst wheelbase is maintained at 2,894 mm) leads to a significant increase in luggage space, from 580 litres to 697 litres.
Despite its increased in length and width, the all-new Touareg is 106 kg lighter due to the high usage of aluminium which amounts to 48% of the total metallic structure.
With the Touareg being positioned as the brand’s new flagship, several technologies and features new to Volkswagen, such as the Innovision Cockpit, are making their debut. The fully digitalized Innovision Cockpit consists of two high resolution displays, a 12-inch Digital Cockpit and a 15-inch Premium Infotainment display.
With the use of Innovision Cockpit, the all-new Touareg adapts to the driver’s preference, just like a smartphone.
In terms of advanced driving assistance systems, the all-new Touareg will have a feature called Roadwork Lane Assist, which is capable of semi-autonomous controls up to 60 km/h, a head-up display, and Front Cross Traffic Assist which is useful when planning to exit a T-junction.
Engine choices for the European market retain the two V6 turbodiesel units, with an increase in outputs to 231 PS and 286 PS. A V8 turbodiesel generating 421 PS is also available in other markets. For markets with petrol preference, Volkswagen will offer a V6 engine with 340 PS output. The R-line variant is also available alongside the luxury variant.
A new plug-in hybrid drive with a combined system output of 367 PS is being prepared for China, and still under study for the European market.
Speaking at the launch, Volkswagen plans to launch at least another four SUV models this year, bringing a total to 10 SUV models by 2020.


Mazda CX-9 Malaysian Spec Put On Display

While we were walking around MAI Malaysia Autoshow floor, we spotted this interesting CX-9 on display at the Mazda booth. The CX-9 has already been on sale for a while, but what has been on offer is an Australian spec model.
This particular CX-9 is a Malaysian spec variant, and it comes with Mazda'ds G-Vectoring Control system as evidenced by this small badge along the side. There are expected to be some differences between this CX-9 and the one currently available for purchase.
The broad strokes between the models are the same. The only noticeable difference are the new headlights and rear fog lights. Both exterior and interior are as familiar as Mazda products go, with the ever important MZD Connect display sitting front and centre. But things are a little more telling when you peer at the buttons.
What's worth noting is the lack of i-Stop or  Blind Spot Monitoring system buttons. If this really is what is going to be on offer in showrooms, it is a peculiar choice- but perhaps not all too strange given our general tendencies to turn both systems off on starting the car.
But what is making an appearance for sure is the new GVC system, which we've covered
here
. It's a novel way of making the drive both more engaging and more comfortable, and it's good that the CX-9 is receiving it as well.


Fuel Price Update: 28 Dec - 3 Jan - Petrol Down, Diesel Up

The Ministry of Domestic Trade, Cooperatives, and Consumerism (KPDNKK) has announced new petrol and diesel prices for the next seven days.
Effective tomorrow, the price for a litre of petrol will decrease by 1 sen while diesel price will see a 3 sen hike.
That being said, the prices for petrol and diesel will be as mentioned below:
RON95 – RM2.26 per litre (down 1 sen from RM2.27)
RON97 – RM2.53 per litre (down 1 sen from RM2.54)
Diesel – RM2.26 per litre (up 3 sen from RM2.23)


Mini Concept Aceman Previewed - The Future Of Mini EVs?

Mini
 has previewed an
EV
 that marks the brand's next-gen design - the Mini Concept Aceman.

This new concept from Mini portrays the brand's direction in design as well as technological innovations together with its signature driving experience that we've adored over the years.

The Mini Concept Aceman will also act as a bridge between the Cooper and the Countryman, which also means that it'll be a completely new model offering if it does go into production. There's already a
Mini Cooper SE
, but this Aceman? We're digging the looks.

New design era for Mini

Exterior-wise, Mini enthusiasts can appreciate the unmistakable design cues found on the Aceman concept, but moving forward as a brand, the constant evolution together with innovations in tech has led to a more 'holistic user experience' when it comes to space and overall interaction.

Speaking of space, the Mini Concept Aceman is able to maximise its interior space thanks to the brand's freedom to design an entirely new EV concept. Four doors, a huge boot space, and seating for five people paired with decent dimensions (4.05m length, 1.99m length, 1.59m height).

The classic three-way body division synonymous with Mini has been maintained paired with a much smoother exterior for enhanced aerodynamics (very important for an EV). That's clearly visible via its fully-closed front central grille with matrix LED units placed in between a set of also matrix LED headlights with green contour lighting - a great way to attract potential EV owners in the future. That, and those 20-inch wheels housed within those muscular wheel arches. Sexy.

Expressive colours of the youth

Colour options for this potential new Mini EV are also a bit 'out there', but it's actually quite nice. There's the Icy Sunglow Green which is a light shade of turquoise with a mix of gold, paired with that classic British Racing Green for the roof? Definitely
fire
.

Even the roof rack takes an interesting turn with green fastening straps with iridescent coating with multiple colour spectrums. Then there's the front and rear valences fitted with very loud pinkish orange loudspeakers because why not?

MINImalism interior

The futuristic yet colourful theme for the exterior flows into the interior but with a more minimalist touch. According to Oliver Heilmer, Head of Mini Design, "We have concentrated on a simplistic appearance in combination with premium materials and welcoming colours. Digitisation enables us to make do with few operating elements and at the same time to maximise the experience in a way that is characteristic of Mini."

You can see these via its flat-designed dashboard to mimic the looks of a soundbar, wide yet gently curved surfaces on the door panels, and a large panoramic glass roof further adds a sense of space and ambience to the occupants. All that futuristic stuff is brought a bit down to earth with the addition of soft knitted textile surfaces.

Then, you are shot back up to space thanks to that round OLED display and other toggle switches and rotary knobs that add a nice dose of modernism with a dash of 'intuitive operations'.

Since it's still a concept, the Mini Concept Aceman has the potential to be a far greater EV compared to the
Mini Countryman SE
 solely because of the freedom the designers have in creating a brand-new platform for the brand.

Hopefully, when it exits the concept car stage, we can get more info about this funky-looking EV Mini like performance figures and EV range. You have our complete and utmost attention, Mini.


Travelling During Lockdown 3.0 - Public Transportation and E-Hailing Service

The current nationwide
lockdown 3.0
 – enforced between 1st-14th June 2021 – will see increased enforcement of travel restrictions for inter-district and inter-state travel as well as further restrictions on where you can and cannot go.

The additional restrictions will be supported by an increased number of (up to 800) roadblocks and additional enforcement manpower set up at strategic locations to facilitate the movement of essential goods and services whilst curbing unnecessary travel by members of the public.

FB@ KTMB

In addition to driving your own car
, restrictions have also been put in place for public transport services. Whilst public transport services are allowed to operate, they have to observe strict SOPs and operate at 50 percent of total seating capacity. Here’s a shortlist:

E-Hailing Service and Taxis: Maximum 2 occupants per car, passenger to be seated at the back (maximum of three passengers allowed for medical/emergency reasons)

Car rental services allowed to operate

LRT, MRT and Monorail allowed: Operating hours 6.00 AM to 12.00 AM currently but operating hours could be revised. Download the 'PULSE' App to plan your journey.

Bus services - stage bus, express bus, chartered bus, tour bus, mini bus, shuttle bus, airport shuttle and workers' bus allowed.

KTMB passenger rail services: 8.00 AM to 8.00 PM (ETS, Intercity and Commuter) - ERT Timuran and Shuttle Tebrau closed. Staggered 'Intercity' operational hours.

ERL (KLIA Ekspres and KLIA Transit) - Operating hours 6:00 AM to 10:10 PM daily.

Courier operations and parcel-hailing services (such as Lalamove) allowed to operate.

The current lockdown will be enforced over three phases, gradually reopening sectors if the current measures are successful in managing and reducing the severity of the pandemic:

Phase 1 (June 1st – June 14th): Total lockdown on
all economic sectors except essential services
as listed by the National Security Council (NSC)

Phase 2 (4 Weeks post Phase 1): Gradual reopening of sectors that do not include large gatherings, in compliance with social distancing SOPs.

Phase 3 (MCO as previously enforced): Reopening of most economic sectors with strict SOPs, limited workplace presence.

As with travelling in your own car, all members of the public are limited to 10km from the point of residence except in cases of work in essential sectors as deemed by the government. Members of the public are advised to always have your work/travel permits on hand for inspection and to return home by 8.00 PM.

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

Check out all the best new & used car deals in Malaysia at
Carlist.my.

Sell your car fast with the best offer? Visit us at
CarlistBid.my
.

Get your latest
new car promotion
 here also.


Tokyo 2017: Honda Sports EV - A Retro-Style EV We All Want

Honda stole the show
at Frankfurt
 last month with the lovely
Urban EV Concept
 and looks set to repeat the act with the similarly retro-looking Sports EV Concept at the ongoing Tokyo Motor Show.
Just as the Urban EV Concept seemed to draw inspiration from the first generation Civic Hatchback its appearance, the Sports EV Concept is a throwback to the company’s old compact sports cars from the 1960s.
The concept’s raking roof is a clear tribute to the fastback coupe versions of the S600 and S800, forebears of the modern day S2000.
Little is provided in the way of official details, however. The show car on the exhibition floor is locked, closed, and tinted, offering no glimpses of its interior.
Honda has yet to confirm its intentions to bring the Sports EV to production, but there is a possibility. The earlier-unveiled Urban EV is already committed to go on sale in 2019 and will be available in European markets as well.
The Sports EV Concept is also said to be built upon an EV-specific platform, likely to be common with the Urban EV. The Sports EV’s proportions are similar to what we expect of a rear-wheel drive configuration, but such considerations really do not matter in the case of electric vehicles.
Whichever wheels it drives, we'd be happy just to see Honda make it.


Unique 3D Art Experience at Renault ‘Capture Life in 3D’ roadshows

In an effort
to showcase the Renault Captur crossover,
TC Euro Cars (TCEC), the authorised distributor of Renault vehicles in Malaysia is bringing a unique and interactive ‘Capture Life in 3D’ experience to the public in a series of ongoing roadshows nationwide.
The Renault ‘Capture Life in 3D’ roadshows will be held at the following dates and venues:
13 – 15 May 2016: Sutera Mall, Johor Bahru, Johor
19 – 22 May 2016: Gurney Paragon, Georgetown, Penang
23 – 26 June 2016: Sunway Pyramid Shopping Mall, Bandar Sunway, Selangor
Taking centre stage will be a large eight-foot tall 3D art installation featuring the Renault Captur in three different engaging ‘Capture Life in 3D’ scenarios. These backdrops are designed to reflect key attributes of the crossover.
Conceived by 38-year-old self-taught artist Chekri Mansor, the ‘Capture Life in 3D’ art was developed using airbrush and normal brush techniques to create richer details that enhance the 3D effect. For a quick preview and behind-the-scenes look, check out the video below:
“Art offers infinite possibilities for bringing concepts to life and this ‘Capture Life in 3D’ art installation aims to create an emotional connection to the Renault Captur amongst more Malaysians. Through this showcase, we hope to stimulate conversations about how the Captur, with its attractive design, ingenious functionality and outstanding efficiency, complements its disposition for discovery to give customers a positive outlook on whatever comes their way,” said
Kuan Kim Luen, CEO of TC Euro Cars Sdn Bhd
Visitors to the Renault ‘Capture Life in 3D’ roadshows will not only get to interact with the large 3D art wall, but also take part in a photo contest to win exclusive prizes and merchandise. To participate, attendees are encouraged to pose creatively in line with the theme of the 3D art presented. They then need to post the photo with a creative caption and the hashtag #CaptureLifeIn3D on the Renault Malaysia Facebook page (
www.facebook.com/RenaultMalaysia
). Ten prizes will be given for each roadshow location.
TCEC is also offering on-the-spot test drives for interested buyers of the Renault Captur at the roadshows and special merchandise for each completed test drive.
The Renault Captur is currently being sold at RM120,669.63 (OTR with insurance).
Looking for a Renault Captur? Find one now at
Carlist.my


Nampak Nombor Plat Mengelirukan, Kabur Atau 'Fancy'? Laporkan Terus Pada JPJ

Sering terserempak dengan pemandu yang menggunakan
nombor pendaftaran yang mengelirukan, kabur atau
fancy
? Kini anda ada kuasa untuk laporkan hal ini secara terus kepada
JPJ
.

Kebenaran ini diberikan oleh JPJ kepada orang ramai jika ternampak mana-mana kenderaan yang menggunakan nombor pendaftaran yang mengelirukan atau tidak mengikut spesifikasi yang ditetapkan sehingga sukar untuk dilihat dalam sekali pandang.

*Kredit foto: JPJ

Kalau anda nampak mana-mana kenderaan yang melanggar peraturan tersebut, anda kini boleh laporkan kepada JPJ dengan cara seperti:

Tangkap gambar nombor pendaftaran kereta sebagai bukti

Rakaman video daripada dashcam kereta juga diterima

Sediakan butiran lain seperti lokasi dan waktu kejadian

Salurkan aduan berkenaan menerusi alamat e-mel
aduantrafik@jpj.gov.my

Sekiranya sesebuah kenderaan itu menerima laporan melalui
aduan
 orang ramai, pemilik kenderaan tersebut bakal diambil tindakan untuk ditemu siasat oleh JPJ. Jika disabitkan bersalah, pemilik kenderaan boleh didenda dari RM300 hingga RM3,000 di bawah Seksyen 14 (4) Akta Pengangkutan Jalan (JPJ) 1987.

Nombor pendaftaran kereta perlulah jelas kelihatan dan mengikut piawaian yang ditetapkan oleh JPJ kerana ia penting bagi menjejaki atau mengenal pasti sesebuah kenderaan. Nombor pendaftaran yang mengikut piawaian juga lebih jelas kelihatan dalam rakaman
dashcam
 atau CCTV.

*Sumber: JPJ

Sehubungan itu, JPJ telah menasihati semua pihak untuk mematuhi peraturan bagi memasang nombor pendaftaran kenderaan mengikut spesifikasi yang ditetapkan di bawah Akta Pengangkutan Jalan (APJ) 1987.

Nombor plat kenderaan ini ibarat nombor IC kereta. Atas dasar keselamatan, pastikan nombor plat anda mengikut piawaian yang ditetapkan JPJ.


All-New 2018 Porsche Cayenne Launched, Priced From RM745,000

Sime Darby Auto Performance (SDAP) has officially introduced the all-new
third-generation Porsche Cayenne
 here in Malaysia. This follows after the model's preview earlier in January.
The all-new Cayenne is underpinned by the Volkswagen Group's MLB Evo platform, allowing the new SUV to shave up to 65 kg in weight, depending on specifications.
As announced earlier, there will be two variants on offer here in Malaysia, namely:
Cayenne
Cayenne S
Powering the entry Cayenne is a 3.0-litre turbocharged V6 that outputs 340 hp and 450 Nm. As for the Cayenne S, this model gets a 2.9-litre biturbo V6 that churns out 440 hp and 550 Nm. The base Cayenne completes the century sprint in 6.2 seconds, while the more powerful Cayenne S completes the same sprint in just 5.2 seconds. A new 8-speed Tiptronic S gearbox transfers all the power to all four wheels.
When equipped with the optional Sports Chrono Package (about RM5,000), the Cayenne gains a launch control feature that shaves about 0.3 seconds off its century spring, bringing the figure down to just 5.9 seconds. As for the Cayenne S with the Sports Chrono Package, the century sprint is complete in just 4.9 seconds.
The all-new Cayenne is now 63 mm longer, coming in at 4,918 mm, while the 2,985 mm wheelbase remains unchanged. Porsche has also managhed to increase the boot space by another 100 litres, bringing the total to 770 litres.
Standard equipment for the all-new Cayenne include:
LED headlights
Active all-wheel drive
Porsche 4D Chassis Control
Front and rear Park Assist
Air suspension
Power Steering Plus
Porsche Communication Management
Porsche Advanced Cockpit
The all-new Cayenne will be the first Porsche to offer PSCB brakes (optional, about RM14,000), which sits one step below PCCB but retains the standard cast iron discs' durability. PSCBs are easily identified by the mirror-like finished discs and white callipers. PSCBs can only be paired with 20- or 21-inch wheels.
Prices start from RM745,000 for the Cayenne, while the Cayenne S starts from RM890,000. All Porsche models sold by SDAP is backed by a 4-year warranty and free maintenance package that includes free service, parts, and labour. The price includes all applicable duties, except registration fee, road tax, and insurance. The zero-rated GST pricing will only be applicable for models delivered before 31 August 2018.
The Porsche 360 Financing is also available for the new Cayenne, which is a new alternative to conventional financing that reduces monthly payments by up to 30% and provides better flexible financing terms.


If only we knew the R36 Nissan GT-R would look this good

Nissan has been very silent on
the matter of their next GT-R
, even occasionally questioning its viability given the company’s highly electrified roadmap. Some have said the car will inevitably be a hybrid, which is mostly fine if it looks like this.

These renderings are probably quite a way off from what the Japanese automaker will end up unveiling (hopefully) given how radical the next-generation car might be, but it’s a nice dream to cling to as these renditions by digital artist Hycade are a nice balance between the futuristic and the current design we’ve grown so fond of.

The R35 Nissan GT-R was first introduced way back in 2007, which in some countries makes it old enough
to get a driver’s license (in 2023)
. To say that the anticipation for its replacement (R36?) is strong is an understatement.

Its overall shape, as depicted here, is almost a complete match for its supposed predecessor, though the front end snout is much less prominent with a far smaller V-Motion grille element flanked by very familiar swept back headlight cluster design with thin led illuminator daytime running lights.

Understated, yes, but simultaneously more menacing. From the side, the car very much resembles the R35 down to sloping fastback roofline and its blacked-out A-pillar for a wraparound glasshouse effect.

The rear-end is perhaps our favourite, merging the squared-off stance and some softer design elements from the GT-R50 Concept by Italdesign back from 2018. Its rear wing is large but tasteful and unmissable quad circular tail lights with a matching set of twin exhaust exits at either side round out a show-stopping backside.

Rife speculation has been ongoing since 2014 about the next GT-R, and this more iterative take on the R35 seems like a nice, albeit conservative, step forward from the car it’s meant to succeed. Much of the rumours now surround its powertrain and whether or not Nissan will use an engine format similar to the now legendary VR38DETT 3.8-litre twin-turbo V6.

Some even speculate that Nissan are working on a return to an inline-6 design, displacing 3.0-litres, and supplemented by an advanced multi-motor hybrid system. Nothing so much has been hinted on what the company actually has in the oven, so we’ll still have to play the waiting game.

Until then, these renders (and so many others) will have to fuel our daydreams.


2018 Volkswagen Atlas Premieres; MQB-Based SUV For The US

Volkswagen has taken the veils off
the Atlas
, a new seven-seater SUV based on its flexible modular transverse matrix (MQB) platform that almost spans the brand’s entire range by now.
The Atlas is built at Volkswagen’s Chattanooga plant in Tennessee exclusively for the North American market. It is also expected to be made available in China where it will be known as
the Teramont
.
Measuring 5,037mm long by 1,979mm wide by 1,768mm tall, the Atlas is bigger, in fact, than even the Touareg, Volkswagen’s flagship SUV, though we suspect that like the US market Passat, the Atlas is built to a lower price point.
These massive dimensions inevitably give the Atlas a bulkier look than any other Volkswagen on sale, but the familiar styling cues of the family remain present. Standard LED headlights and integrated LED daytime running lights provide a unique frontal visual signature. LED tail lights are optional.
Inside, the Atlas cabin appears to be a familiar Volkswagen fare, styled with restraint, but finished with taste. Onboard connectivity is provided by Volkswagen’s Car-Net system capable of integrating with three major smartphone platforms – Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and MirrorLink.
Safety equipment is extensive, featuring adaptive cruise control, autonomous emergency braking, blind spot warning with rear traffic alert, lane departure warning, and active parking assist. Also included is automatic post-collision braking by automatically applying the brakes when a collision is detected by the airbag sensor, minimizing the probably of further collisions.
A choice of two powertrains will be offered for the American market, a 2.0 TSI four-cylinder turbo with 238hp, as well as a 3.6 VR6 with 280hp. Mated with an 8-speed automatic transmission as standard, the Atlas 2.0 TSI is front-wheel driven only, whilst the 3.6-litre model can be had in either front- or all-wheel drive configurations.
The Atlas will be officially launched for the North American market in Spring 2017.