2017 Honda Civic Type R Open For Booking – On Display At Sepang This Weekend

The world’s fastest front-wheel drive production car – the 2017 Honda Civic Type R FK8R has been confirmed for Malaysia, and it is on display right now at the Sepang International Circuit in conjunction with the Petronas Malaysia Formula 1 Grand Prix.
All set to be launched in Malaysia soon, the Civic Type R is now open for booking at 21 selected “Honda Sport” dealers nationwide:
Northern Region
Ban Hoe Seng (Auto) Sdn Bhd
Formula Venture Sdn Bhd
Kah Motor Co Sdn Bhd (Sg.Pinang)
Lee Motor SP Sdn Bhd
Yooi Cars Sdn Bhd
Central Region
Autoworld Asia Sdn Bhd
Botanic Auto Mall Sdn Bhd
Global Amity Sdn Bhd (Bangi)
Kah Motor Co Sdn Bhd (Selayang)
Sri Utama Auto Sdn Bhd
USJ Car Express Sdn Bhd
MH Prestige Auto Sdn Bhd
Peringgit Sri Motor Sdn Bhd
Tenaga Setia Resources Sdn Bhd
The Millenium Auto Carriage
Southern Region
Ban Lee Heng Motor Sdn Bhd (Seremban)
Syarikat Motor GS Tay Sdn Bhd
Yong Ming Motor Sdn Bhd
East Coast
Chuan Thye Motor Sdn Bhd
Syarikat Tan Eng Ann Sdn Bhd
East Malaysia
Syarikat Labuan Automobile Sdn Bhd

Powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged VTEC engine that produces 310 PS and 400 Nm of maximum torque, the FK8R, which is offered
only with a six-speed manual gearbox
, completed a lap around the Nurburgring in 7 minutes and 44 seconds, making it the fastest front-wheel drive production car to lap the “Green Hell”.
Offered only in Championship White exterior paint in Malaysia, the new Civic Type R comes with a chassis that is 38% more rigid than before, 3-Way Driving Modes (Comfort, Sport  and +R), Adaptive Damper System (ADS), Drive-by- Wire throttle (DBW), Electronic Power Steering (EPS), Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA), and a newly developed
three-way exhaust system
.
From what we can see, exterior highlights include an aggressive looking carbon-fibre bodykit, 20-inch aluminium alloy wheels, red Brembo brake calipers, blacked out grilles and air ducts integrated onto the hood and the front bumpers.
The interior and the engine bay were strictly off-limits but we already had a good look at them both when our colleague
Kon sampled the Civic Type R in Germany recently
.
Fully imported from the U.K, the new Civic Type R’s price has not been disclosed yet, but rumour has is that it will be somewhere between RM250,000 and RM300,000.
That being said, those who feel like having a closer look at the 2017 Honda Civic Type R can head to the Honda booth at the Sepang International Circuit right now where the car will be on display until Sunday, 1st October.


Urusan
jual beli kereta
 ini mudah sahaja sebenarnya, namun jika kereta yang mahu dijual itu masih lagi belum habis dibayar dan pembeli perlu membuat pinjaman, prosesnya agak sedikit rumit.

Cara Pantas Dan Mudah Untuk Jual Kereta Belum Habis Bayar

Katakan anda ingin menjual kereta anda dan pembeli sudah bersetuju untuk membeli kereta tersebut secara tunai, prosesnya mudah sahaja. Pembeli cuma perlu membayar nilai yang telah dipersetujui kepada anda. Kemudian, kereta tersebut haruslah dibawa ke PUSPAKOM (B5) untuk diperiksa sebelum
menukar hak milik kenderaan
 di pejabat JPJ.

Jumlah keseluruhan bagi proses ini hanyalah bernilai RM130 sahaja (RM30 untuk pemeriksaan, RM100 untuk proses penukaran hak milik). Bagaimanapun, proses ini menjadi lebih sukar sekiranya kereta yang ingin dijual itu masih belum habis dibayar dan pembeli terpaksa memohon pinjaman bagi membeli kereta anda kerana ia bakal melibatkan institusi kewangan seperti bank.

Pihak bank akan memerlukan anda untuk melakukan Pemeriksaan Sewa Beli di PUSPAKOM (B7) yang memerlukan anda untuk membayar kos tambahan sebanyak RM60. Proses B7 ini lebih mengambil masa berbanding B5. Pembeli juga perlu mendapatkan kelulusan pinjaman sewa beli yang memerlukan lebih banyak kertas kerja terlibat memandangkan ada bank lain yang akan membayar baki tunggakan tersebut kepada bank anda sebelum kereta dapat dijual. Bagaimanapun, cara ini hanyalah sesuai sekiranya harga jualan kereta anda lebih tinggi daripada baki tunggakan pinjaman.

Jika harga jualan kereta tersebut lebih rendah daripada nilai tunggakan pinjaman, prosesnya agak sedikit rumit. Contohnya, jika anda ingin menjual kereta anda pada harga RM45,000 tetapi masih mempunyai tunggakan pinjaman sebanyak RM50,000, anda perlu menambah RM5,000 extra hanya untuk menjual kereta tersebut.

Ada juga penjual yang tidak kisah untuk menambah sedikit wang kepada pihak bank sebelum menjual kereta. Dalam hal ini, anda boleh melakukan bayaran tambahan kepada bank anda, dapatkan penyelesaian pinjaman dan pengeluaran dokumen yang berkaitan dan berikan kepada pihak bank pembeli untuk diproses sebelum urusan jual beli dapat diteruskan.

Walau bagaimanapun, terdapat sedikit kesukaran dalam melakukan proses ini kerana rata-rata bank memerlukan anda untuk menjelaskan terlebih dahulu tunggakan tersebut sebelum kenderaan tersebut boleh dilepaskan dan dijual. Maksudnya, anda perlu membayar nilai tunggakan RM50,000 terlebih dahulu sebelum pihak bank pembeli membayar anda semula. Mana nak cari duit?

Melainkan anda ada duit berkepuk-kepuk dirumah, proses ini tidak akan mendatangkan masalah kepada anda. Tetapi jika tiada, nampaknya anda tiada jalan lain lagi melainkan sekiranya anda jual kereta anda pada pengedar kereta terpakai.

Pengedar kereta terpakai kebiasaannya akan menawarkan nilai tukar beli (trade-in) pada taraf 15-25 peratus lebih rendah berbanding nilai pasaran kerana mereka yang akan menyelesaikan nilai tunggakan kereta itu. Tambahan pula, pengedar kereta terpakai ini tahu bahawa anda sebagai penjual tidak mempunyai banyak pilihan lain pada waktu itu.

Selain itu, terdapat beberapa caj pemprosesan yang akan dikenakan kepada anda seperti:

Fi Invois

Fi pemprosesan

Fi persetujuan

Fi JPJ

Fi PUSPAKOM

Fi E-Auto

Servis

Caj perkhidmatan

Nilai keseluruhan: RM4,000 – RM5,000

Anda perlu ingat bahawa kereta yang anda jual kepada pengedar kereta terpakai bukanlah kereta yang datang daripada simpanan mereka. Pengedar kereta terpakai ini hanya berkhidmat sebagai broker kepada penjual dan pembeli sahaja.

Walau bagaimanapun, penjual kini ditawarkan dengan pilihan terbaru iaitu dengan program
Essential Services yang ditawarkan di Carlist.my
. Dengan program ini, Carlist akan membantu mereka yang ingin menjual kereta tetapi tidak mempunyai sumber atau pengalaman untuk menyelesaikan urusan jual beli kereta ini.

Jika berminat dengan servis ini, pembeli cuma perlu berhubung dengan pasukan kami dan menyediakan info-info releven mengenai kereta tersebut. Bayaran yang dikenakan pun tidaklah tinggi, namun ianya amat berbaloi jika nak dibandingkan dengan melakukan proses ini secara sendiri. Antara perkara yang termaktub dalam Essential Services Program adalah:

Persetujuan pembeli dan penjual

Pemeriksaaan PUSPAKOM (B5 & B7)

Penukaran Hak Milik Di JPJ JPJ

Penyerahan dokumen pinjaman sewa beli

Insurans & Cover Note (tidak termasuk insurans Premium)

Pengeluaran Cukai Jalan (tidak termasuk amaun cukai jalan)

Menariknya,
pembeli
 cuma perlu membayar RM1,200 (RM 200 sebagai bayaran pendahuluan non-refundable, manakala baki RM1,000 perlu dibayar setelah pinjaman anda diluluskan).

Bagi
penjual kereta
 pula, anda akan dicaj sebanyak RM500 bagi urusan proses Pengendalian Penyelesaian Pinjaman. Ini bermakna Carlist,my akan menguruskan baki penyelesaian pinjaman dan kertas kerja untuk kereta anda setelah pinjaman pembeli disetujui.

Perlu diingatkan bahawa TIADA perkhidmatan lain seperti ini yang menawarkan kos yang jauh lebih rendah seperti Carlist.my. Selain itu, penjual juga boleh menjual kereta mereka melalui lelong di
CarlistBid
. CarlistBid melakukan lelongan mingguan dengan lebih daripada 1500 penjual yang dipercayai (dengan rekod prestasi hebat) untuk mendapatkan kadar harga terbaik untuk kereta anda.

Carlist.my juga mempunyai prestasi yang sudah terbukti dalam menjual pelbagai kenderaan dengan harga yang lebih tinggi daripada nilai pasaran. Nak
jual kereta anda secepat mungkin
? CarlistBid merupakan cara menjual kenderaan anda yang terpantas, paling selamat dan telus! Tak percaya? Cuba sekarang.

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.


REVIEW: 2022 Mercedes-Benz E 200 Avantgarde (W213) - It's Like Really Good White Rice

In its current iteration, the locally assembled E 200 Avantgarde sounds like the
perfect mid-size prestige saloon
, managing to combine the luxury and provenance of Mercedes-Benz with localised CKD perks. However, is the sharper pricing shadowing enough omissions that it could turn buyers away?

Of course, its asking price of RM330k (RM330,224.80) isn’t loose change even for the deep-pocketed, but could definitely be enough to lure keen buyers that insist on D+ segment levels of space and presence into an upgrade.

The E 200 kicks off the range as a 2022 model year vehicle
launched in latter 2021
, surpassed by the more powerful and sportily styled E 300 AMG-Line that also received the local assembly treatment.

The Mercedes-Benz E-Class is a has been around since 1993 making this heavy revised W213 the 5th-generation of the German saloon, preceded before that by the fabled W124 which itself traces its roots the W110 in the early 1960s. It does not, therefore, need an introduction or have to prove itself. Quality, pace, eminence, and high technology are all a given, right?

Design & Exterior

There’s certainly no question about how the car is perceived upon first impressions. People do respond well to its elegant shape and Selenite Grey finish but I personally would have loved to see a little bit more character and flair, lamenting that Mercedes-Benz’s designers are making their cars look more and more like featureless eggs. Almost every angle seems to have been pulverised into soft contours.

That’s especially true for
the EQ line of electric vehicles
 and thankfully doesn’t quite apply the E-Class yet, which retains an unmistakeable 3 box shape. Still, there are so few hard lines or angularity to be found on this exterior that any sense of athleticism - and there is some here - is to be expressed in its sheer length and slender profile.

It’s the kind of car you imagine a person whose go-to outfit is exclusively plain coloured shirts and neatly pressed slacks with loafers would love - pretty much the antithesis of the path rivals BMW and Audi are on with the 5 Series and A6, respectively.

Still, there’s something classic about how this E-Class is styled. It’s pure and void of pretension, which some could definitely find boring. The wheels, too, measure 18-inches with a twin five-spoke design that’s as about plain as white rice - but I love white rice.

Perhaps its LED headlamps and distinctive daytime running light signature are the only things visibly flashy, by way of purpose.

Engine And Powertrain

Under its bonnet of considerable length is the rather carried over M264 under Mercedes-Benz’s newest line of turbocharged inline four-cylinder petrol engines. It powers both this E 200 and E 300 in different states of tune as it did prior to its 2021 facelift though the E 200 receives a respectable 197PS and 320Nm of torque.

Power reaches the rear wheels through the automaker’s staple 9-speed automatic transmission (9G-Tronic). This combo works well, the engine is smooth and with linear (for a turbo) power delivery complemented by the gearbox’s seamless cog-swaps.

In the kind of relaxed and unhurried driving the E 200 is clearly engineered to favour, it’s a winning powertrain pairing and that’s all I really have to say about it. However, if you’re willing to push its limits a little, this motor is eager to show off impressive pace.

Its claimed 0-100km/h dash in 7.4 seconds feels spot on and is honestly quite brisk for a saloon of this scale and heft considering this is just the base variant.

More than that, it can actually get a little frenzied at the higher end of the rev range, requiring you cycle up the 9 ratios in quicker succession than expected. It’s not ‘
fast
’ but you’re rarely wishing for more power either.

Yes, the E 300 feels gutsier thanks to the more aggressive tune but if you figure the E 200 is a pushover on the road, you could be made to look foolishly mistaken. Setting the Drive Select mode to Sport seems unnecessary as the most obvious change over Normal or Comfort is the more hot-tempered throttle map, robbing the driver of more gradual (and granular) inputs.

Interior

If there were a list of the most obvious luxury items an E-Class would need to be equipped with, the E 200 probably has them all ticked. However, it doesn’t go beyond these essential elements either.

There’s ambient lighting, supple Artico leather upholstery on the seats (which isn’t made of cow hide, by the way) that feels nice and plush even if I would have preferred the Nut Brown colour option instead of this Black, and the front thrones are electrically adjustable.

The dashboard and centre console, as per Mercedes-Benz’s current design language, is all about instilling a sense of expanse with its
twin 10.25-inch MBUX screens
 working as infotainment display and digital instrument cluster. This is joined by aluminium and dark longitudinal grain wood inlays. Like the exterior, there’s hardly any harsh angles here.

Unsurprisingly, it all oozes class and even manages evokes the odd "wow" despite it being a tentpole attraction in every car they make for a couple of years already. Some adaptation is required to make sense of all the functions and customisation options, though, just like the placement of the gear selector on the indicator stalk.

In its place, the touchpad UI controller is still inferior to a tactile rotary knob but still much less disruptive to driving than poking at a touchscreen, which you can still do.

There are some noticeable omissions here, of course. As the entry variant to the E-Class range, there is no in-built navigation (just use maps on CarPlay or Android Auto, I guess) nor is there a fancy name-brand speakers to impress passengers.

Space in the back is decently ample  as you might expect with its wheelbase, though it isn’t acres more than the C-Class either. The boot, which ‘automatically’ swings open like a spring loaded box, boasts 540-litres of cargo room. If you’re counting, that’s only slightly more commodious than the 5 Series or A6 (by 10 or so litres).

Behind The Wheel

Honestly getting into a groove with the E 200 is easy if your
groove
 is sensible driving to the tune of smooth jazz, unperturbed by the outside world.

It drives easily, smoothly and comfortably, which is table stakes for any E-Class. Steering is very light and though the throttle pedal can seem a little vague, the brakes are quite easy to interpret and modulate.

Should it encounter an imminent collision, the E 200 comes standard with Active Brake Assist (just call it AEB) which bring the car to a complete halt in a potentially life-changing split second quicker than a human can react. Also standard is Blind Spot Monitoring, which is always handy. It misses out on other toys such as adaptive cruise control and a 360-degree camera system.

The E 200 feels unexpectedly light but unspectacular in the corners, which it tackles just fine but doesn’t seem to ever feel comfortable with most abrupt inputs. It’s a competent handler, yes, but that seems to be down to its rigid structure and let down by suspension that feels distant.

Manhandling the car into a set of bends at decent pace can lead to an experience that approximates fun but only if you trust the chassis to sort itself out in correspondence to your intention as it will struggle to communicate much between turn-in and corner exit. In this regard, it’s a long way from, say, a BMW 520i.

Then again that’s not what E-Class buyers are looking for. Where the E-Class truly excels is receding into the background as it actively tries to make the experience of going from A to B as undramatic as possible. It want to sequester you to the destination, not bother you with details about the journey.

Wrapping Up

It’s big, it’s elegant, it’s comfortable, but also intentionally undramatic. As a Mercedes-Benz with all the brand baggage that entails, E 200 Avantgarde successfully ticks all the boxes as a luxury saloon but declines to divulge much beyond what it must.

It’s like expertly farmed, produced, and cooked white rice. There’s nothing wrong with it, and for a lot of people they’ll except no substitute. It forms the backbone of so many ancillary dishes, which can be likened to the many other variants that sit above the E 200, and I hear they’re pretty damn good.

Plainly, the E 200 is the most E-Class of the E-Class, which has never been about handling or looking sporty. Rather, it’s defined by luxury, comfort, prestige, and a certain Germanic straightforwardness. The good news is that it’s now a good deal more accessible thanks to local assembly
.


Toyota Malaysia Teases All-New Camry, More Details This Thursday

The all-new Toyota Camry will be launching in Malaysia as soon as the end of this week, as the company’s website has posted a teaser of the new flagship sedan.
Set to be introduced on 1 November, the website also added
a link for interested readers to register their interest
for the all-new model.
Based on the teaser image, it appears that the Malaysian market model will have the standard bumper design, as seen in the Japan model, as opposed to the
sporty variant in the U.S.A
that features a mesh grille.
The all-new Toyota Camry was only offered as a Hybrid model in Japan
No other accompanying information has been included in the landing pages. A key feature in the all-new Camry is the company's new platform, dubbed TNGA. By adopting the new TNGA platform, the all-new Camry is said to have a low centre of gravity, a rigid body structure, responsive steering and suspension system.
Coincidently, our neighbours up north in Thailand will be launching their all-new Toyota Camry this evening, as their local Toyota distributor has placed
a countdown in the model’s website
.


The Ford Ranger Bags Two ‘Pick-up Truck of the Year’ Awards

The Ford Ranger recently garnered two coveted ‘Pick-Up Truck of the Year’ awards, from two different adjudicating bodies, further cementing itself as the popular pick-up truck of choice for the Malaysian market.
The
Ford Ranger 3.2 WildTrak
 bagged the first award at the Malaysia Automotive Institute (MAI) Car of the Year 2016 (Malaysia COTY 2016) Awards in the ‘Top Pick-up Truck’ category.
The Ford Ranger was also named the ASEAN Car of the Year (ACOTY) winner (Malaysian category) in the Pick-up Truck Category at
our very own
ACOTY
 2016 awards
 for the second consecutive year.
The ACOTY 2016 winners were decided by three independent groups; 30 motoring journalists from 18 publications in Malaysia, Indonesia and Thailand evaluated the product attributes of each model, while over 350 consumers also voted on their ownership experience.


Suzuki Swift Sport – Seronok Untuk Dipandu, Tapi...

Saya telah berkesempatan untuk memandu satu-satunya varian
Suzuki Swift Sport
 yang dibawa masuk ke pasaran Malaysia pada minggu lalu dan sejujurnya, Swift Sport memang sebuah
hot hatch
 yang menyeronokkkan untuk dipandu!

Selepas 5 tahun ketiadaan
Suzuki
 dalam pasaran Malaysia, kini mereka kembali di bawah
Naza Eastern Motors
 dan hot hatch cilik ini merupakan model pertama yang di bawa masuk oleh mereka di dalam pasaran Malaysia.

Ini merupakan model generasi ketiga dan bukanlah model biasa Swift kerana ia versi Sport atau versi prestasi tinggi. Walau bagaimanapun, tiada pilihan manual ditawarkan bagi model ini dan tiada ura-ura bahawa Suzuki akan perkenalkan Swift versi biasa pada masa akan datang.

Spesifikasi

Enjin: 1.4L Boosterjet Turbo

Kuasa: 140 PS

Tork: 230 Nm

Transmisi: 6-kelajuan automatik dengan
paddle shifter

Keselamatan: enam beg-udara, cagak tempat duduk kanak-kanak Isofix, penderia parkir belakang, kamera undur, Hill Hold Assist, sistem brek ABS, EBD dan EBA, serta Program Kestabilan Elektronik (ESP).

Harga: RM139,900

Prestasi Dan Keupayaan

Kehebatan sebenar hot hatch ini cuma dapat dirasai ketika anda berada di tempat duduk pemandu dan mengemudi kereta ini. Enjin K14C 1.4 liter turbo Boosterjet memang enjin yang jauh lebih padu kalau nak dibandingkan dengan enjin Swift terdahulu yang menggunakan M16A 1.6L NA. Walaupun perbezaan kuasa kudanya tidaklah begitu tinggi, namun anjakan tork kereta ini menyaksikan peningkatan drastik lebih 70 Nm tork.

Untuk kereta seberat 970kg, 230 Nm tork yang diberikan memang lebih dari mencukupi. Setiap pecutan terasa amat lancar dan pantas tanpa sebarang kelewatan pada turbo mahupun kuasanya. Nak naik
bukit
? Nak
overtake
 kereta? Memang mudah! Platform Heartect yang digunakan untuk membina kereta ini memang banyak membantu dalam meningkatkan kekukuhan
chassis
 serta kestabilan kereta ketika dalam keadaan laju.

Dari pegun, hot hatch ini memerlukan 8 saat untuk mencapai 100 km/j dan mencatatkan kelajuan maksimum pada 205 km/j. Dengan kuasa yang ada pada enjin kereta ini, saya yakin kereta ni boleh capai had laju maksimum kereta seperti yang dinyatakan tanpa sebarang masalah.

Bagi kaki jalan
touge
, anda memang patut cuba sendiri kereta ni sebab
handling
 dia memang tak mampu nak diungkapkan dengan kata-kata. Saya sempat membawa kereta ini naik ke Genting Highlands dan apa yang boleh saya katakan, kereta ini membuatkan anda terasa seronok setiap kali melalui
selekoh
. Selain trek tayar yang dilebarkan,
trailing arm
 kereta ini juga dibina khas supaya kereta ini boleh melalui selekoh dengan lebih laju dan yakin.

Keselesaan

Ketika berada di tempat duduk pemandu, ianya hanya selesa ketika anda sedang menikmati pemanduan terutama pada kelajuan yang tinggi. Untuk pemanduan yang lebih
chill
 atau ketika terperangkap dalam kesesakan jalan raya, anda akan merasai beberapa kekurangan pada kereta ini. Walaupun kabinnya agak senyap, namun penggunaan
bucket seats
 pada kereta ini telah menyebabkan badan saya kurang selesa untuk pemanduan jauh. Mungkin perlu tambah kusyen atau bantal seperti kerusi
gaming
. Ketika tersangkut dalam kesesakan jalan raya, saya begitu rindukan
arm rest
 yang tidak disediakan pada kereta ini.

Interior

Untuk bahagian dalaman pula, ianya tidaklah terlalu cantik mahupun terlalu teruk. Ia menggunakan warna hitam dengan kemasan merah yang dapat dilihat pada stereng, tempat duduk, kluster meter, papan pemuka, konsol tengah dan di bahagian pintu hadapan.

Kluster meter kereta ini hadir dengan gabungan meter analog dan skrin MID ditengah. Skrin tersebut memberikan bacaan
boost
 turbo, daya G-Force serta bacaan kuasa dan tork kereta. Sistem pendingin hawa automatiknya kelihatan lebih menarik berbanding sesetengah kereta lain.

Sistem infotainment kereta ini menerima sambungan Apple CarPlay dan Android Auto, tetapi kalau anda gunakan sambungan bluetooth atau mendengar radio, anda bakal dapati tema yang digunakan pada sistem infotainment tersebut mungkin agak ketinggalan zaman.

Bagi seseorang yang berketinggian 183cm, jarak antara kepala saya dan bumbung kereta hanyalah sejengkal sahaja di bahagian pemandu. Namun kedudukan ini secara tidak langsung memberi sudut penglihatan yang lebih baik kepada saya sebagai pemandu. Di tempat duduk belakang, hanya 2 orang dewasa dapat dimuatkan. Boleh sahaja nak sumbat 3 tapi kurang selesa sikitlah. Ruang kepala di belakang juga agak sempit sehingga kepala saya boleh terkena bumbung belakang jika kereta melanggar bampar jalan dengan laju.

Exterior

Swift Sport dilengkapi dengan lampu hadapan automatik LED, lampu belakang LED, gril hadapan yang lebih agresif dan besar, lampu kabus halogen, kemasan seakan karbon pada spoiler bampar hadapan, skirt sisi dan
diffuser
 bampar belakang.

Selain itu, ia turut hadir dengan sistem kunci pintar, kamera undur, pembuka but belakang elektromagnetik, tip ekzos berkembar (ekzos betul!) dan juga rim aloi 16-inci dengan tayar Yokohama Advan A13 195/50R16.

Walaupun reka bentuknya ringkas sahaja, tapi saya betul-betul suka dengan rekaan Swift ini berbanding generasi terdahulu.
Side profile
 kereta ini kini lebih merecik dan seksi meskipun tampil dengan rekaan yang ringkas dan tidak keterlaluan. Pemegang pintu belakang yang diletakkan pada bahagian tepi cermin membuatkan kereta ini kelihatan seperti hot hatch 3 pintu.

Ciri Keselamatan

Untuk kereta yang menawarkan ciri-ciri pemanduan yang
sporty
, penting untuk sesebuah kereta itu dilengkapi dengan ciri-ciri keselamatan yang tinggi. Walau bagaimanapun, ciri yang ditawarkan pada Swift hanyalah
 6 beg udara kecemasan, ABS, EBD, ESP, Hill Hold Assist, dan dua cagak Isofix pada tempat duduk belakang, penderia undur dan kamera undur. Tiada ciri keselamatan aktif seperti
adaptive cruise control
 terdapat pada kereta ini.

Akhir kata...

Seperti yang saya katakan, Swift Sport memang sebuah kereta yang seronok untuk dipandu. Tetapi kereta ini paling menyerlah hanya pada bahagian enjin dan prestasi sahaja. Selebihnya, seperti yang telah saya jelaskan di atas terasa sedikit kekurangannya. Yang penting anda kena tanya soalan kenapa anda inginkin Suzuki Swift Sport ini? Sebab pemanduannya? Sebab kekemasannya? Sebab reka bentuknya? Sebab jenama dan modelnya? Bergantung kepada jawapan anda, Suzuki Swift Sport ini boleh menjadi kereta idaman anda atau sebaliknya.

TL;DR, jika anda seseorang yang gemarkan pemanduan lasak dan mahukan jentera yang kecil, mudah dikawal dan hadir dengan kuasa yang padu, Suzuki Swift ini merupakan antara pilihan yang terbaik anda ada ketika ini.

Dalam pemerhatian saya, harga jualan kereta CBU ini mungkin menjadi penghalang terbesar kepada jumlah jualannya di Malaysia. Yang pasti, saya tidak mampu untuk memilikinya buat masa ini tapi mungkin anda boleh! Mungkin bagi anda tanda harga hampir RM140k itu berbaloi dengan pakej yang hadir dengan Suzuki Swift Sport ini. Tepuk dada tanya selera lah kan? Tapi cuba anda bayangkan jika kereta ini dijual pada harga RM80k, pasti ia akan terjual seperti pisang goreng panas!


Tesla Low-Key Teases All-New Small Hatch In China

Electric vehicle manufacturer Tesla has slipped a teaser depicting a potentially all-new model for the brand, wedged in as part of a social media posting on its official WeChat account, the biggest social media platform in China.

As presented, the car itself looks far less outlandish and jagged than the Cybertruck but coloured in a very aluminium-looking silver shade that echoes the pickup’s stainless steel shell. However, it does look significantly smaller than any Tesla currently on sale, suggesting that cars like the Nissan Leaf and its sister model, the Renault Zoe, will be direct rivals, as well as the Volkswagen ID.3.

At a glance, it’s got the front end of a Model Y and a rear profile that looks similar to the Toyota C-HR. There’s cladding around the wheel arches and side sills in addition to a slightly raised ride height, suggesting it could be marketed as some sort of crossover.

The sketch was a part of Tesla broadcasting via social channels that it intends to set up a ‘design and research’ facility in the People’s Republic, calling out to prospective applicants to join their ranks as it makes further inroads to establish a strong position in the country’s lucrative EV market.

In October 2019, Tesla was added to China’s government-approved list of vehicle manufacturers, effectively giving them permission to establish a new $2 billion Gigafactory outside Shanghai. Reportedly, the facility will be able to produce around 500,000 cars annually.

This new smaller hatch and the ‘design and research’ centre it’s associated with is clearly targeted at the mass market in China where EVs are already significantly subsidised both at the consumer and manufacturer level, resulting in 2018 alone seeing over 1.2 million electric vehicles sold within its borders.

If this new model is the latest yet to join Tesla’s portfolio, and as a chronological follow up to the Cybertruck, perhaps they’ll choose to call it Cyberhatch.


The EV Thesaurus - All The Acronyms You Need To Know

With all the acronyms being thrown around these days, we can forgive you if you can't tell your BEV from your PHEV.

Gone are the days when a car could be defined as either one that runs on petrol or one that runs on diesel. With the rise of electrification in the automotive industry, you can get everything from a full on electric vehicle, to a hybrid, to an electric vehicle that has a backup engine - you get the idea. To help you with this, let's run through all the different terms and acronyms you might come across.

EV - Electric Vehicle

Electrification in its
simplest form
. An electric vehicle could be powered by any number of sources, but as long as the wheels are driven purely by electric motors, you can consider a vehicle an EV.

BEV - Battery Electric Vehicle

Going slightly more specific, most EVs that we think of are generally
considered BEVs
, because they use a bunch of batteries to store electrical charge and power the electric motors. Rather surprisingly, this is not the only form of EV that exists.

FCEV - Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle

Something that automakers have taken interest in over the last few years is the concept of hydrogen as a power source for vehicles, either in combustion for an engine (Mazda tried this with their rotaries) or passed through a Fuel Cell to generate electricity. We won't explain
how a fuel cell works
, but an FCEV is refuelled with hydrogen and emits nothing but water.

Range Extenders

You may occasionally find that some BEVs come in a variant with a "
range extender
" option. It's simply a fancy way to say that there's a gasoline (or diesel) powered generator sitting somewhere in the car that can provide backup electrical power for the motors if you really run out of juice. In our opinion, it's the best compromise that won't leave you stranded.

Hybrids

The technical term would be "
hybrid electric vehicle
" since there's the EV component of it, but hybrids as we know them have been around for decades. It's the marriage between a conventional engine and an electric motor, with both providing drive to the wheels. Some hybrids cannot run on the electric motor alone, and others may start off purely in electric mode - it's really down to the manufacturer's decision.

PHEV - Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle

What's becoming more popular as a halfway house between full electrification and conventional vehicle
is the PHEV
. We see many models on our markets being presented as PHEVs - they function like a hybrid, but can have the onboard batteries charged by an external power source when the car is not in use. This significantly improves the functionality of the electric motor and in the right situations, you will barely need to use your fossil-fuel burning engine.


What Is The 2021 Perodua Ativa AV Merdeka Special Edition?

Say hello to the
2021 Perodua Ativa
 Merdeka Special Edition!

2021 Perodua Ativa AV Merdeka Special Edition

Neither of our national automakers is especially keen on delivering a commemorative or celebratory ‘Merdeka’ edition of their cars, which is fine because it means that it grants us a little freedom to do some artistic experimentation.

Of course, you can already tell it’s based on Malaysia’s newest and cutest
B-segment SUV/crossover
. Specifically, the range-topping AV version with the nicest interior trimmings and most safety features.

There’s a lot to love about the Ativa as is, but injecting some added national pride to it seems like a good idea, if only to set it apart from the different examples of the high-riding 5-seat, 5-door Perodua.

Design And Exterior

The Ativa AV’s usual dual-tone colour scheme is retained but instead of the usual exterior body colour palette of 5 -
Garnet Red, Pearl Diamond White, Cobalt Blue, Granite Grey, and Glittering Silver
 - we’ll have a 6th option of ‘Harimau Orange’.

This not only gives the Ativa AV a striking presence on the road, but adds subtle stripes that run along the side so it’ll look at home in both the urban setting and in the countryside. Maybe even the jungle?

Elsewhere, to match the tiger motif even more, we have replaced the chrome or metallic exterior accents with a matte black finish that nicely complements the roof, upright pillars, and protective cladding around the wheel arches.

Speaking of which, the Ativa AV Merdeka Special Edition also gains a new wheel design in gloss black. Partly inspired by
the Myvi GT
 that graced the 2018 Kuala Lumpur International Motor Show (KLIMS), its new all-disc brake rotors gains painted callipers in contrasting bright yellow.

Unfortunately, the live Malayan Tiger isn’t part of the package, but we’ll throw in a mini stickable Jalur Gemilang. Berkibarlah!

Interior

Inside, the cabin will be left mostly untampered. However, some tasteful changes will have been made to the seats, dashboard, and door trim.

Orange accents will be peppered in select areas to indicate to occupants that this isn’t an ordinary Ativa, but are low key enough for this reminder to be gentle and not overbearing.

A ‘Merdeka Special Edition’ plaque will be placed on the lower centre console alongside a serial designation since this is one of only 640 examples to commemorate our nation’s 64th birthday. Alongside this, the same text will be embossed on the front seatbacks and the floor mats.

Lastly, the touchscreen infotainment screen has been given a special visual upgrade with an orange on black theme for the user interface. Owners can also select a special themed wallpaper to complete the look.

Engine And Powertrain

Why change what’s already a solid package? The Daihatsu-sourced 1KR-VET 1.0-litre 3-cylinder
turbocharged
 petrol engine and
D-CVT transmission
 are a strong pair that provides the Ativa with punchy performance, smooth operation, and great fuel efficiency.

With 98PS at 6,000rpm and 140Nm from as early as 2,400rpm, the compact and lightweight mixes enjoyable driving with economical operation. So far, this is the most impressive continuously variable transmission (CVT) ever fitted to a Malaysian car, putting the still-prevalent Punch-sourced gearboxes in Protons to shame.

Despite some misconceptions around 3-cylinder engines and their tendency toward vibration, the growly engine note and springy character gives the Ativa an unmistakably endearing quality that reminds us of Perodua’s first few cars.

Special Add-Ons

As part of Perodua’s Merdeka Special Edition efforts, this limited run Ativa AV can also be optioned with a few extras - for a price, of course.

For starters, buyers can choose to have their cars fitted with an Alpine upgraded sound system and external amplifier. Perfect for blasting your Merdeka-themed tunes, among other tracks.

However, besides this, a matching Gear Up bodykit can be had in the same orange and black colour scheme, even blending into the striped pattern with the new side skirts. And further enhancing its sportiness, a set of lowering springs can be fitted from the factory to give the Ativa a more hunkered-down stance.

Unlike aftermarket options, these springs were designed and engineered by Perodua with a local partner to improve the drive and handling of the Ativa AV Merdeka Edition while working perfectly with the existing shock absorbers so that comfort and safety are not compromised.

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 the latest new car promotions at
New Car
 website now.


SDAP Opens Porsche Centre Sungai Besi

Porsche Malaysia with partners Sime Darby Auto Performance just opened Porsche Centre Sungai Besi (PCSB), letting the Stuttgart automaker form a firmer foothold in the Malaysian market. We were there during the grand opening celebrations where some new models were also unveiled alongside the new showroom.
The building itself is located along Jalan Sungai Besi, just a few minutes away from the Central Business District and within easy reach from the major highways - Lebuhraya Sungai Besi, North-South Expressway and Smart Tunnel, among others. The building itself represents a RM16 million investment by SDAP and occupies 34,703 square feet that allows for it to accomodate as many as 10 display cars.
It also features a stylish Carrera Lounge, nine service bays, two delivery bays and even a Porsche Pre-Owned car centre. It spans two floors with a large sunlit atrium by the front entrance. There are two dialogue booths for customers to interact with specialists about certain queries they have concerning Porsche or about their vehicle specifically. Special Porsche Tequipment accessories are also available as well, as are Porsche Driver's Selection merchandise.
The Carerra lounge is a first for a Porsche Centre in Malaysia and aims to provide luxury and convenience to new and existing customers. Its Pre-Owned cars come with a minimum two year Porsche Approved Pre-Owned Warranty to go along with its wide selection and hassle-free trade-in programs.
Arnt Bayer, Chief Executive Officer of Sime Darby Auto Performance, said "We are thrilled to be moving in-to the central automotive hub in Kuala Lumpur with the new flagship facility. With this new 3S centre, it is a big step forward for us to provide better service to our customers. Sungai Besi is also the first Porsche Centre in Malaysia that complies to the new Porsche corporate architecture. We look forward to providing customers a complete ownership experience."
The ceremony itself also included the introduction of the facelifted
Porsche Cayenne
 and 911 Targa 4S. A
Porsche 918 Spyder
 hybrid supercar was also brought in for display just for the occasion.
Porsche Centre Sungai Besi is located at
306, Jalan Sungai Besi,

57100 Kuala Lumpur.


MITI x MARii - Growth Expected In 2020 For Automotive Sector

The Ministry of International Trade and Industry (MITI), together with the Malaysian Automotive Robotics and IOT Institute (MARii) have announced that 2019 was a positive year for the Malaysian automotive sector and that 2020 will be a year of holistic growth for the industry, buoyed by the introduction of the
recent NAP 2020
.

Amongst the highlights is the recently announced increase of Total Industry Volume (TIV) to 604,287 units and Total Production  Volume (TPV) of 571,632 units, resulting in a TIV/TPV ratio of 95 percent - the highest since 2014.

Overall, the automotive export sector contributed RM15.45 billion in 2019, boosted by an increase in parts and components - amounting to RM13.7 Billion, up from RM12.1 Billion in 2018.

A total of 65,388 jobs were created in 2019 within the sector.

Additionally, MARii CEO Dato Madani Sahari added that in line with the NAP 2020, the government will be developing an EV Interoperability Centre (EVIC) which will house various facilities needed for the testing of NxGV vehicles such as charging stations, and smart grid integration solutions.

The EVIC facility, which will be a part of a larger Centre Of Excellence (COE) test centre for industry players within the mobility ecosystem to design and validate products in a single location.

The centre, which will include test environments for urban, sub-urban, and rural areas hopes to help carmakers and tech-suppliers adapt their solutions to cater to local conditions.

The COE will be based in Cyberjaya and is slated to have its groundbreaking ceremony in approximately a month from now. Besides the COE, MARii will also establish the first two-wheeler emissions test centre in 2020.

As for 2020, MARii forecasts a TIV of 610,000 units (578,000 TPV) -  a figure that is slightly more optimistic than Malaysia Automotive Association's 607,000 increase. Exports of parts and components are expected to contribute a further RM16 Billion in 2020.


This Amazing Tron Lightcycle Went Up For Auction And, Sadly, Was Sold

We all love a ridiculously awesome looking bike. That’s only an assumption, yes, but mix science fiction into that and one of the most desirable “I wish that I really had that” item that comes to mind is the Lightcycle from the Tron film series, specifically this one from the 2010 reboot Tron: Legacy. The good news is there is a real one, but the bad news is that it’s already been sold.
This Lightcycle did not make an appearance in the movies nor did it tool around The Grid, mind you, but was specially built for the Andrews Collection – father and son duo Paul and Chris, car collectors extraordinaire – to move around their facility.
Having said that, it’s a stunning piece of work, matching the exterior specifications from the movie nearly flawlessly. Inside, however, it is powered by what the its seller describes as a “96 volt, direct-drive electric motor with lithium batteries and a computer-controlled throttle, rebound and compression damping with spring-preload front suspension and rigid rear suspension, and front and rear hydraulic brakes”.
Now that the Andrews Collection is auctioning off nearly all the items in their repository of rare machines, this one-of-a-kind functioning recreation of a fifth generation Lightcycle must go too. And Sotheby’s has already put it up for sale and indeed found an owner. Imagine how much you would pay for this? If money were no object, then perhaps quite a lot.
Even its seller pegged the price at somewhere between 25,000 – 40,000 US Dollars, but it was sold for scarcely believable 77,000 US Dollars (RM277,604). For an electric motorcycle that while very cool, is rather limited in its function, that’s quite a price tag.
Still, we’re sure its new owner will brag endlessly about having something nobody else does. After all, he or she has to get their money’s worth.


Pulangan Tunai Sehingga RM7,000 Untuk Dimenangi Sempena Ulang tahun CARSOME ke-7

Keliru sama ada ingin membeli kereta baharu atau
kereta terpakai
? Maklumlah, harga kereta baharu semakin mencanak tapi kalau nak beli kereta terpakai pula, kualiti kereta boleh dipersoalkan kerana ianya barang ‘terpakai’.

Bagi mereka yang menghadapi kekangan bajet untuk membeli kereta baharu, jangan risau kerana
CARSOME
telah memudahkan segala proses pembelian kereta terpakai yang berkualiti tanpa sebarang caj tersembunyi.

Bagi meraikan ulangtahun ke-7, CARSOME kini menawarkan beberapa tawaran menarik khas untuk direbut sepanjang bulan Ogos dan September 2022!

Beli Kereta Carsome Certified Dan Berpeluang Menang Pulangan Tunai Sehingga RM7,000

Masih belum beli kereta kerana menunggu masa yang sesuai? Inilah masanya! CARSOME kini menawarkan pulangan tunai sehingga RM7,000 kepada 7 pembeli kereta CARSOME Certified yang bertuah sempena ulang tahun CARSOME yang ke-7.

Berminat? Ikuti langkah-langkah dibawah untuk berpeluang menjadi salah seorang daripada 7 pemenang bertuah:

Langkah 1: Beli Kereta CARSOME Certified

Lengkapkan pembelian kereta CARSOME Certified anda di carsome.my dalam tempoh promosi (1 Ogos – 30 September 2022) dan anda berpeluang untuk dipilih menjadi pemenang bertuah. 7 pemenang bertuah akan dipilih untuk bulan Ogos manakala 7 lagi akan dipilih untuk bulan September.

Langkah 2: Isi Borang dan Jawab Kuiz

Pemenang akan dihubungi melalui e-mel atau SMS dan mereka akan menerima borang melalui pautan Google Form yang perlu dilengkapkan serta kuiz yang perlu dijawab dengan betul bagi membawa pulang hadiah tunai tersebut.

Hadiah: 7 hadiah berbentuk pulangan tunai sehingga RM7,000

RM7,000

RM6,000

RM5,000

RM4,000

RM3,000

RM2,000

RM1,000

CARSOME X Cantona: Jersi & Tumbler Edisi Terhad Untuk Dimenangi

Tak cukup dengan pulangan tunai, CARSOME juga menawarkan jersi dan tumbler CARSOME X Cantona edisi terhad bagi meraikan kerjasama CARSOME dengan
pemain bolasepak dunia itu.

Untuk berpeluang merebut jersi dan tumbler edisi terhad ini, anda perlu:

Langkah 1: Beli kereta CARSOME Certified di carsome.my dalam tempoh promosi (1 Ogos – 30 September 2022)

Langkah 2: Ambil gambar bersama kenderaan baharu anda dan muat naik ke media sosial

Langkah 3: Lengkapkan dan masukkan ayat ini dalam kapsyen’ “Saya beli kereta di CARSOME (lokasi cawangan)

Langkah 4: Tag CARSOME di Facebook (Carsome Malaysia) dan Instagram (@carsomemalaysia) dalam hantaran tersebut

Pastikan profil media sosial anda ditetapkan kepada umum supaya CARSOME dapat melihat gambar yang telah dimuatnaik. Hantaran yang menerima likes terbanyak menjelang akhir tempoh promosi akan menerima jersi dan tumbler CARSOME X Cantona yang ditandatangani oleh Eric Cantona sendiri.

Kenapa Patut Beli Kereta CARSOME Certified?

Bagi mereka yang masih kurang percaya dengan kualiti kereta terpakai, anda sangatlah digalakkan untuk membeli kereta CARSOME Certified. Kenapa?

Pemeriksaan profesional: Semua kereta CARSOME Certified menjalani pemeriksaan yang meliputi 175-mata untuk memastikan ia bebas daripada kemalangan besar dan kerosakan banjir.

Harga tetap: Harga yang anda lihat di laman web CARSOME ialah harga penuh sebenar kereta tanpa sebarang bayaran tersembunyi.

5-Hari-Jaminan wang dikembalikan: Jika anda menukar fikiran setelah membeli kereta terpakai daripada CARSOME, anda boleh mengembalikannya dalam masa lima hari untuk mendapatkan kembali jumlah penuh anda. Tiada soalan yang ditanya!

1-tahun waranti: Siapa kata hanya kereta baharu ada waranti? Kereta CARSOME pun ada!

Selain menawarkan beberapa hadiah menarik untuk direbut pada bulan Ogos dan September ini, proses membeli kereta anda dengan CARSOME juga semakin ringkas dan mudah tanpa sebarang kerumitan kerana CARSOME akan mengendalikan semua kertas kerja untuk anda.

Kalau proses beli kereta pun dah semakin mudah, proses menjual kereta dengan CARSOME pula adalah dua kali ganda lebih mudah dan boleh dilaksanakan dalam tempoh 24 jam sahaja*. Tempah pemeriksaan kenderaan anda di
laman web CARSOME
 dan pemeriksaan akan dilakukan untuk mengetahui nilai sebenar kereta tersebut.

Paling best, CARSOME akan mengendalikan semua kertas kerja untuk anda, dan anda boleh menerima bayaran anda dalam masa satu jam sahaja*!

Tunggu apa lagi? Dapatkan kereta idaman anda sekarang dengan CARSOME dan anda berpeluang untuk memenangi hadiah menarik sepanjang bulan Ogos dan September 2022! Tertakhluk pada terma dan syarat.


Perodua confirms sedan production. Could be powered by Toyota NR engine.

Perodua’s president and CEO Datuk Aminar Rashid Salleh confirmed today that the company is in the midst of developing its much anticipated sedan. However, he refused to share any details on when it will be revealed and told the press to “just wait for the announcement
lah
”.
Updates
Perodua’s new RM600million engine plant in Sendayan, Negeri Sembilan, which will be building 1.3 and 1.5-litre Toyota NR-series engines, will be ready in June this year.
Since none of Perodua’s current models are being powered by these engines, chances are that the new sedan could be powered by the mills made in Sendayan.
What we already know (based on Datuk Aminar's announcement in July 2015)
A prototype already exists, and Perodua will be partnering with either Daihatsu or Toyota for the production of the vehicle. It is believed that Perodua will be leading the charge on this project, with its Japanese counterpart overseeing its development. This is due to the fact that Daihatsu does not have a sedan in its portfolio at the moment to be shared with the national car manufacturer.
The upper body design of the vehicle will be, from the ground up, Malaysian designed.
Aminar also revealed that the sedan, which could be based on the Perodua Buddyz concept which made its debut at the Kuala Lumpur International Motor Show 2013 (KLIMS 13), will be revealed before 2019.
The sedan could take up to four years to develop. The speculations are that the project already began when the Buddyz concept was revealed in 2013. Now that three years have passed, there are high chances for the car to be ready in 2017 – just in time to compete with Proton’s new entry level cars that are also due in 2017.
The car will probably come with Electronic Stability Programme (ESP) and more airbags than what is offered in the current Myvi and Axia as Perodua is aiming to achieve 5-Star NCAP rating with the new sedan.
That said, Datuk Aminar reaffirmed, “It’s going to be a good car, but we don’t dare set too big targets for it just yet. We already have a prototype in testing, and we've had it for almost a year now. So given the natural time frame for the development of a vehicle, you will see it soon.”
Watch this space for more updates on Perodua's new compact sedan.
Looking for a Perodua? Find one now at
Carlist.my


Volvo Reveals Bulletproof XC90 Armoured For Customers Who Want High-Level Protection

Volvo Cars has just unveiled a bullet and bomb-proof armoured version of the XC90 called the XC90 Armoured for customers who want high level of personal protection.
The XC90 Armoured is built on the Inscription version of the Volvo XC90 T6 AWD, which is manufactured at the Torslanda plant in Sweden. According to Volvo, the size and nature of the model made it the most suitable vehicle in Volvo Cars’ product portfolio for armouring.
From Torslanda, the car is then sent to Trasco Bremen in Germany, a company which specialises in building high-quality vehicles with high protection ratings.
Weighing a massive 4,490 kg, the XC90 Armoured is fitted with 10 mm-thick high-strength steel armour which weighs 1,400 kg, and also 50 mm-thick glasses all around. To cope with the increased weight, the car is fitted with uprated suspension and new brakes.
The best part about the XC90 Armoured is that the armour is fitted very discreetly to make the car barely distinguishable from a standard XC90.
Thanks to these additions, the XC90 Armoured has a certified VPAM VR8 rating, which means that the car has 360-degree ballistic resistance as well as explosive resistance.
In case a customer feels that the abovementioned specifications is a bit over the top, the folks at Volvo Cars have also developed another lighter version of the armoured car. They also said that there are other models which can be modified to offer high personal protection, such as the XC60 T6 AWD Inscription or the XC90 T6 AWD Inscription.
According to Volvo Cars, there is a growing global market for armoured vehicles at present, and a large number are manufactured with various protection ratings. It is said that Volvo Cars has received numerous requests over the past few years to develop an armoured XC90.
Currently, these bulletproof Volvos are only intended for Latin America and European markets, namely countries like Brazil where there is considerable demand for these types of cars as well as substantial experience of building them.
Looking for a new Volvo? Get the best deals
here
.


PIAM and MTA Launch Road Safety Campaign With A Hashtag

Reducing accidents and fatalities on the road is always the goal, but are we really doing anything new here?

To start the year strong, the Persatuan Insurans Am Malaysia (PIAM) and the Malaysian Takaful Association (MTA) decided to launch their road safety campaign for the year with the hashtag #steadybrader. The campaign is aimed to help educate and promote safe driving behaviour while encouraging road users to remain steady when riding or driving vehicles.

The idea is to reduce the number of accidents and fatalities that have been on the rise since Malaysia has come out of lockdowns and people are returning to the road in huge numbers. There will be a year-long series of activities that includes, but are apparently not limited to:

Sustained awareness of road safety programs via digital media

Road safety educational quiz series

Community outreach initiatives using gamification

Various collaborative (yet unspecified) programmes with government agencies and companies

This all sounds great but let’s be real now: this is nothing new.

Why big data?

During the launch, the one phrase that was constantly being thrown around was “big data”. This was in the context of the accidents and fatalities that were recorded through 2019 and 2020, and the upcoming collected data for 2021. The only problem here is that we’re not entirely sure what makes this information “big data”.

For those who don’t know, “big data” is a relatively modern term that’s used to describe volumes of data that are too large for a person to process, let alone a traditional database. We’re talking about Facebook, Google, Amazon levels of volume and processing requirements, where information is so vast and complex that it’s stored across not a single hard drive, nor single server, but a network of servers around the world.

With respect to the victims and their families, the amount of data talked about here is not large. If we were to focus on fatalities alone in 2019 (which were higher than 2020 for fairly obvious reasons), that would be 6,167 individual people who lost their lives. There are organizations and businesses in Malaysia with a higher headcount than this, and information is processed entirely internally and handled with traditional software.

Even the larger, more complex number of incidents classified as accidents was 567,516 in 2019. The row limit of Microsoft Excel is just under double this figure – and for each row, you can have 16,384 columns worth of data – so we’re not entirely sure why they’re considering this as big data.

Social media to the rescue?

When quizzed on what the difference was between this year’s programmes and the programmes from years past, it was said that there would be analysis of the “big data” and the usage of social media to determine driver behaviours in particular parts of the country and to determine which areas are the most prone to accidents to effectively deploy personnel in an effort to improve road safety.

The only real question is why this has not already been put into place? As a culture, Malaysians love to complain – and they do so on any form of social media where anybody can have a voice. It isn’t particularly hard to know where there may be accident-prone areas, bad road conditions, or just a high amount of incidents and fatalities as well as other bad road behaviours.

On top of this, there is the plan to use social media to spread the good word and get people to behave more responsibly on the road – except that most people don’t pay attention to any of these warnings or messages.

Black boxes for insurance incentives?

One point that was brought up was the topic of insurance black boxes, or telemetry trackers, placed inside vehicles to help provide insurance companies with data on how you drive your car. In simple terms, driving in a safer and more lawful manner scores you “points” that you could use to effectively lower your insurance premium or some other measure.

This is an actual viable option, except that the technology has been in the testing phase locally for the better part of four years, and there still isn’t a viable solution that could apply to a broad number of cars, and not cost an arm and a leg for every insurance provider in terms of sourcing the item.

What’s the real solution?

The sad truth is that nearly everything that was proposed or suggested during the launch of this campaign has been tried before, and hasn’t really worked in any measurable way. In more developed countries, getting people to behave on the road is done through two approaches: far better education at the driving school level, and
far heftier fines at the enforcement level
.

It was said that over 60% of all accidents and fatalities on the road in Malaysia could be attributed to the motorcycle riding population, and therefore there was an increased need to target these motorists and help to bring down these numbers. In a not insignificant number of these cases, it was delivery riders who were getting into accidents and breaking the law due to being under time pressure from their job.

The proposed solution on the part of PIAM and MTA was to make these delivery companies reduce the time pressure on their riders, though it shows a distinct lack of understanding on their part as reducing time pressure doesn’t stop riders from taking on multiple orders and trying to maximize their earnings per hour.

Amazingly, no data was provided on how many accidents were caused by reckless speeding, or street racing – something that JPJ and PDRM regularly target. One of the most deadly forms of lawbreaking, street racing has been curbed in many other countries through a simple process: give them the venue and time to enjoy their vehicles safely, and they won’t be a nuisance on the road. Unfortunately, this has been proposed for decades and we still
have yet to see any suitable racetracks
 for cars besides Sepang International Circuit.

And of course, there is the
ever important issue of education
. The driving school curriculum has barely changed in the last half-century, with the only significant difference being that you can now take your test with an
automatic vehicle
. In countries where driving is taken seriously (because they understand you are piloting a 1.5-tonne steel box that can kill other people), learner drivers are made to understand things like car control, judging road conditions, defensive driving, and more – and they do so over 100 hours instead of the 10 hours that we’re required to do here.

But when asked whether they would introduce any defensive driving courses (such as Pass Plus in the UK) as an incentive to help lower insurance premiums, the panellists did not provide an answer. It is telling that proper solutions often fall on deaf ears, and it is no surprise that we’re ranked so highly in road fatalities and accidents per capita. But hey, at least we’ve got a new hashtag to use this year.


Toyota Skills Contest 2015 Champions Are Dedicated On Upping Customer Experience

Twelve champions had emerged from the
Toyota
 Skills Contest 2015 held by UMW Toyota Motor, emphasizing that excellence in customer service does not end when customers purchase their vehicles.
The Toyota Skills Contest is an annual event that provides Toyota personnel with a platform to improve their skill and efficiency in achieving utmost customer satisfaction that’s in-line with the ‘Kaizen’ philosophy of incremental but constant improvement adopted by Toyota.
This year’s contest marked the 26
th
 year it has been held, and garnered more than 1,200 participants across 12 categories. The winners were chosen from seven of the primary categories and will be treated to a fully sponsored trip to Japan to join Toyota’s Annual Assembly of International Customer Service Champion there.
Meanwhile, the other five champions will be going on an all-expense paid trip within ASEAN. First and second runner-up in each category will also receive cash awards.
Datuk Ismet Suki, President of UMW Toyota Motor said, “We continue to see an increase in participation over the past few years, signalling a healthy desire among after sales personnel to attest to the company’s drive, to be on par excellence in their service for customers,”
“I’m gratified by their motivation to excel further through the Toyota Skills Contest, allowing them to showcase their best ability in serving our customers. The buck does not stop there, as participants from this contest cascade the spirit of improvement to their workplace and become role models to their peers.”


Geneva 2019: Subaru Viziv Adrenaline Concept Sets The Tone For Bolder Design

The Subaru Viziv Adrenaline that was recently uncovered at the Geneva Motor Show 2019 is the first concept to be designed in accordance with the company’s latest “Bolder” design philosophy.
Subaru says the “Bolder” theme aims to broaden the brand’s outlook, define the characteristics of Subaru vehicle’s more prominently, and create more enjoyment for all passengers.
In the Subaru Viziv Adrenaline concept, the SUV features more than the usual body claddings in flat black.
The top half of the concept meanwhile cleverly blends side mirrors and a unique roof design that finished with a sporty roof spoiler, all in a mix of white and gloss black.
Not much else has been shared on the Viziv Adrenaline concept, which is the seventh member in the
 Viziv line of concept vehicles
 by Subaru.


Bali mayor wants to ban motorbike rentals after tourist misbehaviour

Bali
 is looking into the possibility of banning motorcycle rentals for tourists following a number of violations and incidents.

Wayan Koster, the Governor of Bali, stated that this new rule will most likely be imposed in 2023 but it's specifically for motorcycle rentals and not cars. Will this put a dent in the motorcycle rental business on the beautiful island?

According to Wayan, "As tourists, (you should) act as tourists, using the vehicles prepared by travel agents, instead of roaming around with motorbikes, without wearing T-shirts and clothes, with no helmets, violating (traffic rules), and even without a licence."

“Further study is needed, we will then correct the wrongs. All this time, seeing the riders that I have observed on the ground, they can rent without having a licence, which then leads to troubles," added Tjok Oka Artha Ardhana Sukawati, Bali's Deputy Governor.

Over 6.2 million foreign visitors were reported to enter Bali in 2019 and looking at this number alone, tourism plays a major part in sustaining the lives and businesses of those living on the island. With that being said, a lot of locals have complained regarding the misdemeanours of tourists riding around town on rental bikes.

There have been many instances in the past of tourists riding around without valid licences, protective gear (helmet), and accidents that have resulted in serious injuries and even deaths (some due to riding drunk).

Koster also added that a majority of these offenders hailed from Russia and Ukraine. A request for the government to cancel the visa-on-arrival policy for tourists from these countries is currently being looked into, but this is yet to be decided as it involves a big hurdle in the law and human rights ministry.


Why Honda Malaysia Showing Toyota, Perodua And Nissan The Proverbial Finger Is Good For Malaysia!

Last Friday Honda Malaysia released the first video for the 2020 Honda City and they took potshots at the Toyota Camry, Vios and the Perodua Bezza and we loved it!

If you've not watched the teaser video, check it out below.

Now for far too long, the automotive industry in Malaysia has only delivered tepid after predictable teaser or launch videos. None really captured the imagination nor left a lasting impression until now. Can you tell me your most
memorable car ad
 from Malaysia? More often than not, our favourite car ads are from the western side of the globe where they're bold, brazen, and in your face. Cases in point below.

Audi vs BMW: Round 1

Audi vs BMW: Round 2

BMW vs Mercedes

BMW vs Audi (again)

Subaru chimes in...

Nissan vs Audi

Nissan actually bought an
Audi
 TT and used it to promote the Nissan 370z. Brilliant!

Jaguar vs Mercedes

Credit to Naked Motoring NM for compiling all three videos into one though I'm not so sure about Mercedes' last reply.

Cheeky, memorable and ballsy. Is it any wonder why most or all of these ads stand the test of time and why in 2020 we still refer to an ad from 2006 as the benchmark for a statement of intent?! Until last Friday, the most memorable car ads in Malaysia were from Petronas or Proton during Hari Raya or Merdeka. They tugged at our heartstrings, made us shed a tear or two till the next Merdeka or Raya.

Has another automotive player taken a poke at their competition? Has Proton taken the piss out of Perodua? Has Nissan taunted their illustrious Japanese counterparts? Has Mazda taken the game to BMW or Mercedes in their push for premium? Have the top dogs from Germany taken a go at each other? The answer is a big resounding NO!

Everyone's trying to be politically correct, everyone wants to play nice, stick to the tried and boring formula of a teaser or launch video. So thank you Honda Malaysia! Thank you for having the balls to stick it to your
competition
, thank you for giving us automotive journalists hope that this may open the door for more exciting content from other manufacturers.

I for one cannot wait to see the response from UMW Toyota, ETCM and Perodua and I hope and pray there is one coming. To Toyota, Perodua and Nissan - stop playing nice, reply, provoke. It would be a refreshing change and inject some much-needed excitement into our local automotive industry. You'll get as much if not more chatter, social media traffic and views if your responses are clever and therein lies your challenge. Especially you Nissan, since we're all eagerly awaiting the
2020 Nissan Almera
.

On another note to manufacturers, if we take your cars for a review and if they're just bad, can we say that without it becoming personal? It's your car, not you we are being critical of and we owe it to our readers to be as objective as possible, no?


Malaysian Launches: What Cars Can We Expect in 2022?

What car launches can we expect in 2022 in Malaysia?

It's been a heck of a rollercoaster ride for everyone in 2021. Just as we thought that things were starting to look up, an unexpected storm hit the country, causing floods in most parts of Malaysia - destroying properties and vehicles along the way.

With that being said, many Malaysians will probably have to look for a replacement vehicle in the new year. While it seems like every manufacturer has introduced their new cars in the last few months, there are some that are still waiting to be introduced in 2022.

So what car debuts can we expect in 2022? Well, we can expect a couple of national 7 seaters, a long-awaited compact MPV from Japan as well as a national and non-national hybrid vehicle.

1,
Proton X90

If you're looking for a big, exclusive and powerful SUV that can comfortably hold up to seven passengers, then the Proton X90 should be on your radar. Rumours are rife that the
Proton X90
 (forecast name) will make an appearance in 2022 as the Geely Haoyue, the car it is based on, has been seen testing around the capital and several other major roads.

It has been suggested that the new national MPV will come with a 1.5-litre three-cylinder turbo engine and a mild hybrid system, producing around 187 horsepower, 300 Nm of torque channelled to a 7-speed twin-clutch transmission.

2.
Perodua Alza

The current Perodua Alza is a bit long in the tooth, so it's high time that a replacement is introduced. The second-generation code-named D27A will come with a 1.5-litre dual VVT-i engine, Dual Mode CVT transmission and be built on Daihatsu's New Global Architecture platform. The platform will also be shared with the
Toyota Avanza
 and Daihatsu Xenia models.

However, according to rumours, this model's launch, which was supposed to occur in the first quarter of 2022, has now been postponed to the second quarter of 2022 - probably around June. One of the reasons for this delay is the shortage of supplies and computer chips. Perhaps its twin, the Toyota Avanza, will make an appearance before it.

3.
Honda BR-V

The new Honda BR-V is another vehicle from Honda which is highly anticipated. It will be equipped with Honda's naturally aspirated L15ZF 1.5-litre i-VTEC petrol with 121 PS and 145 Nm of torque driving the front wheels via an Earth Dreams CVT - basically the same updated dual-overhead-camshaft 1,497cc unit in the newest City.

The BR-V will give fierce competition to the Perodua Aruz, Toyota Rush and even the Mitsubishi Xpander. Looking at the Indonesian market, we expect the BR-V to be "value for money" and drive like a sedan.

4.
Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid

It's well publicised that the CKD Corolla Cross Hybrid is coming next year. Although it might look the same as the regular Corolla Cross, the hybrid model is more sophisticated in its
powertrain
. Currently, Toyota Malaysia is only accepting bookings for the Corolla Cross Hybrid. However, we expect this model to go on sale starting at the beginning of next year based on current predictions.

5.
Perodua Ativa Hybrid

This might seem a bit far fetched, but we can only hope that Perodua will introduce a hybrid Ativa in 2022. Adding to the hype are several sightings of the
Daihatsu Rocky Hybrid
 being tested around town, triggering the possibility that a
Hybrid Ativa
 will be with us soon. Too soon? Well, we will just have to wait and see.

If the government's proposal to make EVs
tax-free
 goes to plan, we can also expect some EVs to be launched in 2022. However, since this is uncharted territory, we will have to update the 2022 EV debut list further down the line - as things are not clear cut just yet. However, there are a few that we can mention as there are strong rumours that it will debut in Malaysia in 2022.

6.
Hyundai Ioniq 5

Ever since the IONIQ 5 made an appearance in Malaysia courtesy of the
Johor Royal family
, people locally can't stop talking about it. Well actually, people can't stop talking about the IONIQ 5 worldwide as the Hyundai electric vehicle is rather impressive. It would be an understatement to say that Hyundai hasn’t gone from strength to strength in recent years, but the IONIQ 5 seems to be their biggest step yet.

Built upon the same platform as the
Kia EV6
, the
IONIQ 5
 packs similarly potent performance. An electric range of up to 480 km and being able to charge from 10% to 80% in just 18 minutes (with the right kind of charger) make for a battery electric vehicle that really lives up to modern requirements. It is offered in both rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive – completely independent of the specification you choose.

7.
Kia EV6

Bermaz's Kia revival has an EV and hybrid roadmap in place. In addition to focusing on the continuation of mass-market vehicles through local assembly operations, the ‘new’ Kia will also leverage the automaker’s newest and most advanced global models such as
the fully electric EV6
.

By extracting maximum performance from the larger battery option as well as the dual-motor powertrain, the EV6's combined output is 576 hp and 740 Nm. It's not only about power though as the EV6 has 510 km of travel based on the WLTP testing standard.

For a little perspective, that’s more power than
the Taycan 4S,
 a true electric sports car. The Kia also happens to beat out the Porsche in a 0-100km/h sprint by half a second, reaching the three-figure mark in just 3.5 seconds. Top speed, meanwhile, is electronically capped at 260km/h.

8.Mazda MX-30

The Mazda MX-30 rumour mill actually started way back in 2020, where apparently according to a report by AmInvestment Bank said that the MX-30 will arrive in Malaysia in October 2020. It possibly didn't happen because of COVID 19 disruptions. After being quiet for a while, the rumours started again, especially after the announcement by the government that it wishes to make EVs practically tax free.

The Mazda MX-30 was first introduced to the world at the 2019 Tokyo Motors Show. It is Mazda's first electric vehicle and features quirky suicide doors. It is powered by a 35.5 kWh battery with a power output of 141 hp and 264 Nm of torque and offers a range of 209 km. According to Mazda, 80% charge can be achieved within 30 to 40 minutes via a 40 kW DC charger.


Touch ‘n Go Is A Little Messy, But They're Trying To Fix It!

What was once just a simple way to provide cashless payments for tolls, evolved into a more convenient option for mass transport – but it's been an uphill fight to achieve integration with their eWallet system.

Are you old enough to remember when toll systems were purely cash and coin based? For many road users – especially the younger ones among us – Touch ‘n Go has been a part of the driving experience from almost the day they start driving. A couple of years ago, the government and highway concessionaires moved to remove manual payment booths to force everyone into using either Touch ‘n Go or Smart Tags, and after a small period of adjustment the general driving population got used to it.

And then, a secondary problem appeared. In line with many companies coming up with eWallet systems, Touch ‘n Go also decided they would have an eWallet system to compete – and they would let you link your Touch ‘n Go card with it. On the surface this sounds amazing as it would allow users to circumvent the experience of manually topping up a Touch ‘n Go card at petrol stations, convenience stores, and so on.

But it didn’t quite work like that, and many users found themselves stuck at tolls because their cards just didn’t have enough balance to get through. Repeat after me: my eWallet and physical card balance are not the same. This is something that many Touch ‘n Go (TnG) users are still having trouble understanding, but you can’t put the blame entirely on them because the issue isn’t exactly straightforward either. The TnG eWallet system was something developed independently and in a way designed to work with the RFID tags that were introduced not so long ago.

The problem is RFID is still pretty slow with its rollout, despite TnG’s best efforts to get widespread adoption. Much of the issue is also surrounding gate failures and lack of infrastructure in many parts of our road network – for example, closed-toll systems. This applies as well to how your TnG card is read at toll booths because of the way the systems aren’t completely integrated.

An open toll system is one where a user can choose to use the toll road or circumvent it with a non toll-route but still end up on the same path. This is for standalone cases like the Penang bridge (one toll in, no toll out), or the SPRINT highway tolls – and in these cases, your eWallet balance is deducted if it has sufficient balance, instead of your physical card balance.

Unfortunately, closed-toll systems like the NKVE and greater North-South Expressway still require you to have physical balance in your card. These closed systems operate like train lines where there is an entry and exit gate, and the amount it deducts depends on the gate from which you came in. If you notice, when you enter these closed road systems, the first toll booth doesn’t deduct anything from your balance.

Why this is the case, we aren’t entirely sure. It could be the nature of TnG’s systems that it cannot record the eWallet entering at a certain gate and exiting at another in order to calculate the distance travelled and appropriate toll charge. For a very short period of time, KESAS highway had a TnG top-up machine built into the lane which was pretty interesting, but they have all but disappeared.

If you have a Smart Tag or something similar, it pays to double-check the physical balance in your card before you join any closed toll systems to make sure you don’t get stuck at the gate. Failing that, just make sure you pull off at a rest stop or one of the highway offices to get the physical balance topped up if you need to before you have to exit the highway.

In short, the eWallet system added a level of convenience that can only be experienced in a reasonably limited context. Users still can’t avoid having to top up a card’s physical balance, especially if their travels involve closed-toll systems. Hopefully, TnG figures out a permanent workaround in the near future. The company has pledged that RFID functionality will be rolled out across Malaysia by the end of 2021, with Johor slated for their next widespread implementation - but they are dealing with a legacy system that is incredibly difficult to integrate.


The Differences Between The 4 Proton X50 Variants

After months of speculation and guessing, the cat is finally out of the bag but with
four Proton X50 variants and six colours
 to choose from, what are the differences between each model?

To make it easier to digest, we thought we would create a table to point out the major differences. No doubt the standard X50 would be sufficient for most, but some do prefer a bit more tech, power and safety which Proton has kindly provided through the other variants.

Obviously the top variant (1.5TGDi Flagship) gets all the goodies, but the 1.5T Premium is not a badly specced car in itself, coming with all the features of the top variant but without the panoramic sunroof, dual-tone exterior (black roof and pillars), as well as Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS).

The prices have yet to be announced, but we expect the 1.5T Executive/Premium to sell the most but then again if the price of the 1.5T Standard is unbelievable don't be surprised if it sells like hotcakes because Proton did mention at the preview that the differences in pricing would be broad.

Which one would you go for?

Proton X50 Variants

Models

1.5T Standard

1.5T Executive

1.5T Premium

1.5TGDi Flagship

Engine

1.5 litre turbocharged three-cylinder MPI engine

1.5 litre turbocharged three-cylinder MPI engine

1.5 litre turbocharged three-cylinder MPI engine

1.5 litre

			turbocharged three-cylinder MPI engine

Performance

148 PS and 226 Nm of torque

148 PS and 226 Nm of torque

148 PS and 226 Nm of torque

174 PS and 255 Nm of torque

Transmission

Seven-speed (wet) dual-clutch automatic transmission with manual mode (no paddle shifters)

Seven-speed (wet) dual-clutch automatic transmission with manual mode (no paddle shifters)

Seven-speed (wet) dual-clutch automatic transmission with manual mode (no paddle shifters)

Seven-speed (wet) dual-clutch automatic transmission with manual mode (no paddle shifters)

Airbags

Four airbags (front and side)

Six airbags (front, side, curtain)

Six airbags (front, side, curtain)

Six airbags (front, side, curtain)

Headlights

LED headlamps and DRLs

Automatic LED headlamps and DRLs

Automatic LED headlamps and DRLs

Automatic LED headlamps and DRLs

Wheels

17-inch alloy wheels

17-inch alloy wheels

18-inch alloy wheels with red brake callipers

18-inch alloy wheels with red brake callipers

Exhaust Pipes

Quad exhaust pipes

Quad exhaust pipes

Quad exhaust pipes

Quad exhaust pipes

Bodykit

Full carbon fibre-print body kit

Full carbon fibre-print body kit

Full carbon fibre-print body kit

Full carbon fibre-print body kit

Parking Brake

Electronic parking brake with auto brake hold

Electronic parking brake with auto brake hold

Electronic parking brake with auto brake hold

Electronic parking brake with auto brake hold

Seats

Fabric seats

Leatherette seats

Leatherette seats/powered driver’s seat

Leatherette seats/powered driver’s seat

Rear Aircon Vents

Equipped

Equipped

Equipped

Equipped

Instrument Cluster

Digital instrument cluster

Digital instrument cluster

Digital instrument cluster

Digital instrument cluster

Infotainment

Eight-inch touchscreen infotainment unit with GKUI 19

Eight-inch touchscreen infotainment unit with GKUI 19

10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment unit with GKUI 19

10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment unit with GKUI 19

Camera

Reverse camera

Reverse camera

360-degree camera

360-degree camera

Steering Wheel

Standard

Leather-wrapped steering wheel

Leather-wrapped steering wheel

Leather-wrapped steering wheel

Front Fog lamps

N/A

Equipped

Equipped

Equipped

Tyre Pressure Monitoring System

N/A

N/A

Equipped

Equipped

Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS)

N/A

N/A

N/A

Equipped

Dual-tone exterior (black roof and pillars)

N/A

N/A

N/A

Equipped

Panoramic Sunroof

N/A

N/A

N/A

Equipped

*Feature in
bold
 are add-on features compared to the other variants.

Proton X50 Colour Variant/Availability

Models

1.5T Standard

1.5T Executive

1.5T Premium

1.5TGDi Flagship

Armour Silver

Available

Available

Available

Available

Snow White

Available

Available

Available

Available

Jet Grey

N/A

Available

Available

Available

Ocean Blue

Available

Available

Available

Available

Citric Orange

N/A

Available

Available

Available

Passion Red

N/A

N/A

Available

Available

Choices, choices, choices...


Malaysia’s CO2 Emissions Among Highest In ASEAN, Low Carbon Mobility Solutions Needed

With a population of 32 million, Malaysia has a disproportionately high carbon dioxide emission per capita – at 7.27 tonnes, double that of Thailand’s 3.64 tonnes and higher than even China’s 6.59 tonnes (data as of 2015).
China might be home to many of the world’s most polluted cities and Bangkok’s air quality might be worse than Kuala Lumpur’s but both countries also have a far higher population than Malaysia - 69 million for Thailand and 1.38 billion for China - and have far more industrial activities.
While there are less of us, an average Malaysian individual’s daily habits contribute more to climate change than the average mainland Chinese or Thai.
Source:
 CO2 Emission from Fuel Combustion Highlights (2017 Edition), International Energy Agency
The reason behind Malaysia’s disproportionately high air pollution is due to our reliance on privately owned vehicles. There were 29.4 million vehicles on our roads - 13.8 million cars and 13 million motorcycles. Malaysia’s transport sector is responsible for spewing 61.4 million tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent in 2015, making it the second biggest polluting sector after electric power generation.
The immediate action plan to improve Malaysia’s air quality centres around public transport, whose modal share (percentage of commuters using the service) is still far too low when compared to benchmark green cities.
The Malaysian Green Technology Corporation or GreenTech Malaysia, an agency under the purview of the Ministry of Energy, Science, Technology, Environment, & Climate Change, is a focal point in decarbonizing Malaysia's transportation sector.
The agency’s Low Carbon Mobility Blueprint and Action Plan (LCMB) has three main objectives – raising ridership of public transport, accelerating the adoption of clean energy vehicles, and improvement of vehicle technologies (higher efficiency and lower emissions vehicles).
The Low Carbon Mobility Blueprint and Action Plan will be announced this year. The land transportation sector will see improvements in accessibility and connectivity, reduced traffic congestion, lower spending on transportation fuel, better environment and healthy lifestyle.LCMB’s objectives will complement the existing National Land Public Transport Master Plan (NLPTMP) target of having 40 percent of Klang Valley residents commuting using public transport by year 2020.
For other major cities, the target is to reach the same milestone by year 2030. NLPTMP implementation has resulted in increased model share of public transport in Klang Valley from 16 percent to 20 percent between 2010 and 2015, mainly contributed by successful initiative under MyRapid. Over the last five years, MyRapid has made significant improvements in our public transport system, especially in Klang Valley and Penang.
The integration between Rapid KL buses and MRT/LRT now work a lot better than before. The wider coverage of MRT and Rapid KL buses today should raise the figure even further. Over the last five years, MyRapid has made significant improvements in our public transport system, especially in Klang Valley and Penang. The integration between Rapid KL buses and MRT/LRT now work a lot better than before. Between 2010 and 2015, model share of public transport in Klang Valley increased from 16 percent to 20 percent. The wider coverage of MRT and Rapid KL buses today should raise the figure even further.
Of course, much still needs to be done to improve the first-mile and last-mile connectivity – the means of getting to/from the train station. But the advent of e-hailing has also negated this to be almost a non-issue.
Decarbonizing vehicles with electric drivetrains extends beyond just private vehicles but also public buses. Alternative energy fueled public buses are in various stages of trial runs, not just in Klang Valley but also in Sarawak.
A fleet of electric buses currently ply several routes in Selangor including the heavily-populated Petaling Jaya neighbourhood. Meanwhile in Sarawak, several fuel-cell hydrogen buses are being trialed in Kuching.
Free electric bus service by MBPJ (image: Media Selangor)
While electric drivetrains are welcomed, doing your part to reduce our carbon footprint doesn’t require any fancy new technology. Anyone can start with the simplest step - changing the way we move around. Drive less, walk/cycle more, and where possible, use public transport.
This post is sponsored by Malaysian Green Technology Corporation, also known as GreenTech Malaysia.


Cara Membuat Tuntutan Jika Dilanggar Kenderaan Tiada Insurans

Jika anda cedera dilanggar kenderaan yang tidak mempunyai insurans dan/atau pesalah tidak mahu bertanggungjawab, anda boleh membuat tuntutan kepada Biro Insurans Motor Malaysia (MIB).

Bayangkan jika anda sedang berjalan kaki, berjoging atau berbasikal, tiba-tiba dilanggar motosikal atau kereta sehingga menyebabkan kecederaan. Si pelanggar pula bertegas bukan salah dia dan tidak mahu membayar ganti rugi.

Tidak adil jika anda harus menanggung kos rawatan hospital, sedangkan si pelanggar boleh membuat tuntutan
insurans pihak ketiga
 iaitu kecederaan tubuh badan (Third Party Bodily Injury, TPBI). Yang lagi menjadi masalah kalau si pelanggar memang tak ada insurans. Aduh...

Apa yang patut anda lakukan?

Tangkap gambar kenderaan yang melanggar anda dan/atau kenderaan anda. Jika anda dilanggar tanpa membawa kenderaan, ikut langkah ke-7.

Tangkap gambar atau salin nombor pendaftaran kenderaan pelanggar. Maklumat nombor pendaftaran penting untuk carian
JPJ
 bagi mendapatkan maklumat berkenaan dengan pemilik kenderaan.

Tangkap gambar roadtax pelanggar (untuk pastikan roadtax/insurans masih ada untuk kita tahu tindakan seterusnya seperti memasukkan dalam report polis)

Minta nama penuh dan nombor telefon pelanggar, jika dia ingin bekerjasama dengan baik.

Buat
laporan polis dalam masa 24 jam
 dan beritahu si pelanggar supaya membuat laporan polis.

Hubungi pihak insurans anda (jika ada insurans perlindungan diri peribadi atau syarikat)

Segera ke klinik/hospital untuk mendapatkan rawatan kecederaan anda. Laporan perubatan ini diperlukan untuk tuntutan ganti rugi.

Hubungi peguam untuk tindakan seterusnya (jika ada)

Seterusnya, anda boleh buat tuntutan di MIB. Ia adalah salah satu dana khas yang dibuat untuk semua pengguna jalan raya.

Motor Insurers Bureau

Biro Insurans Motor Malaysia (Motor Insurers Bureau of Malaysia) ditubuhkan pada 15 Januari 1968 untuk memberi keadilan sosial, diwujudkan pada masa itu di bawah Ordinan Lalu Lintas Jalan Raya 1958 (kini Akta Lalulintas Jalan 1987).

Ia diwujudkan untuk membela
mangsa kemalangan jalan raya
 yang tidak mendapat pembelaan atau memberikan duit kepada mangsa kemalangan sama ada pemandu, pejalan kaki atau penumpang yang terlibat dalam kemalangan dimana kenderaan yang melanggar tiada insurans.

Dana yang digunakan MIB untuk semua mangsa kemalangan adalah dana daripada semua
syarikat insurans
 yang diwajibkan mencarum ke dalam MIB pada setiap tahun. Dengan adanya dana ini, bantuan yang diberikan kepada mangsa mengikut syarat-syarat yang telah ditetapkan.

Cara buat tuntutan kepada MIB

Kemukakan tuntutan secara terus kepada pihak MIB atau boleh melantik peguam.

Pastikan ada
nombor pendaftaran kenderaan
 si pelanggar yang terbabit dalam kemalangan. Pihak MIB tak akan bayar untuk kes langgar lari atau yang tidak ada nombor plat kenderaan terlibat.

Serahkan tuntutan anda dalam jangka masa
tiga tahun dari tarikh kemalangan
.

Sekiranya anda melantik peguam untuk failkan tuntutan di mahkamah, peguam harus beritahu pada MIB dalam tempoh 30 hari sebelum tuntutan dibuat di mahkamah dan menyerahkan semua dokumen berkaitan.

MIB hanya bayar untuk jenis kecederaan sahaja (contoh: luka, patah atau retak) dan tidak termasuk
kerosakan kenderaan
 anda, harta benda,
loss of income
 dan sebagainya.

Sebarang jumlah bayaran dari MIB adalah ditentukan oleh pihak MIB berdasarkan kes dan kejadian.

Dokumen yang diperlukan untuk buat tuntutan MIB

Surat kepada MIB yang menyatakan maklumat tentang kejadian, alasan tuntutan dibuat dan semua dokumen dikepilkan bersama.

Satu salinan laporan polis yang tercatat nombor kenderaan pihak ketiga.

Laporan polis pihak ketiga (jika ada).

Laporan perubatan anda.

Hantar dokumen berkaitan ke:

Motor Insurers’ Bureau of West Malaysia

Wisma PIAM

No.150-3, 3rd Floor

Jalan Tun Sambanthan, Brickfields

50782 Kuala Lumpur

Tel: 03-2274 7395

Fax: 03-2274 5910

Terlibat dalam
kemalangan
 adalah pengalaman yang amat menyedihkan serta membebankan. Selain mengalami trauma, situasi si pelanggar tidak mahu mengaku salah dan 'lepas tangan' akan merumitkan lagi keadaan.

Oleh itu, penting untuk anda mengetahui hak anda sebagai seorang individu atau pun pengguna jalan raya, terutamanya untuk membela diri jika tidak bersalah dan membuat tuntutan ganti rugi.

Semoga bermanfaat!


The Aston Martin DBX Proves No Company Can Survive Without An SUV

It's Blasphemy! Some might say.

A company with a 106-year heritage of innovation, engineering, design, and motorsports trophies has introduced for the first time, an SUV. The introduction of the Aston Martin DBX further cements the fact no company, no matter how small or large, how new or storied its ancestry maybe, needs an SUV to survive.

The DBX is just the latest in a long list Super-SUVs, from premium and sports car manufacturers that have all bitten the bullet and gone a bit higher above the ground. Porsche, Bentley, Mercedes-Maybach, Rolls-Royce, Maserati, and Lamborghini; all save Ferrari (which have one coming soon) have put their carefully tailored spins on the concept – of course, all the while assuring that the SUV still exudes the athleticism and luxury of its more traditional products.

The logic for an SUV is simple... p
eople buy SUVs.

It expands the sales reach of the brand worldwide – people who have spent a large chunk of their lives acquiring fortune may not be able/nimble enough to slide into a two-door sports car. But that rich uncle might still want an Aston Martin.

An SUV increases a brand's presence in markets where the weather or terrain is less than conducive for a traditional rear-wheel drive sports car.

It's big and it's spacious. China and the US love big and spacious.

It appeals for people who want to be driven, and not necessarily drive.

With that said, it’s not as straightforward as it may seem. Yes, Aston Martin might have big powerful engines, talented engineers, and brilliant craftsmen; but the biggest challenge with an SUV is the weight, driving dynamics, and aerodynamics as opposed to the size of the boot space. Hence, although it’s an SUV, here’s why the DBX might be the most talented Aston Martin ever.

It’s built on an all-new platform

Set to be built in Aston Martin’s purpose-built manufacturing facility in St Athan, Wales, the foundation of the DBX is a new dedicated SUV platform. Utilising bonded aluminium, a construction method Aston Martin has refined through the development of its sports cars, the body structure is both light and incredibly stiff, producing an overall kerb weight of 2,245kg, which is impressive considering the Aston Martin DB11 sports car weighs 1,760kg.

Its fast... and grippy

The DBX is powered by a new version of the Mercedes-AMG sourced 4.0-litre, twin-turbocharged V8 engine. The DBX’s outputs 550 PS and 700 Nm of torque, tuned to meet the specific needs of this model. The turbocharged V8 has cylinder deactivation technology to enhance fuel economy; even the engine’s firing order has been changed to make it sound more Aston Martin.

Power is sent to a nine-speed torque converter automatic gearbox which sends power to all four wheels through an all-wheel drive system with active differentials featuring an active central differential and an electronic rear limited-slip differential (eDiff). This allows the torque to be moved precisely both fore and aft in the vehicle and also across the rear axle.

Aston Martin claims the DBX will accelerate from 0-100 km/h in 4.5 seconds and have a top speed of 291km/h.

Transmitting this power and torque to the ground is a nine-speed torque converter automatic gearbox, allied to an all-wheel drive system with active differentials featuring an active central differential and an electronic rear limited slip differential (eDiff). This allows the torque to transmitted precisely both fore and aft in the vehicle and across the rear axle.

Newly developed suspension

An adaptive triple volume air suspension is combined with the latest 48v electric anti-roll control system (eARC) and electronic adaptive dampers to provide the new SUV with a huge breadth of ability. The DBX can raise its ride height by 45mm or lower it by 50mm the air suspension depending on terrain.

The adaptive triple chamber air springs enable variable spring stiffness, offering up both comfort and dynamic handling. The eARC system is capable of 1,400Nm of anti-roll force per axle – curbing the DBX’s body roll and sharpening up the handling.

Aerodynamically shaped

Aston Martin ran computational fluid dynamics (CFD) tests with a DBX towing a trailer with a DB6 on it. At the car’s front, the daytime running lights (DRLs) have an integrated aerodynamic duct, which channels air through the front wheel arches and along the side, helping to reduce both drag and lift while also cooling the brakes. Airflows cleanly over the roof, through the rear wing, over the rear window and on to the rear flip. Aston Martin also conducted computational aeroacoustics technology tests to ensure the DBX’s design would keep cabin noise to a minimum at speed.

It’s got up to date tech

A 10.25-inch TFT screen sits flush in the centre console, while another 12.3-inch TFT screen provides other driving information to the driver. Apple CarPlay comes as standard, as does a 360-degree camera system and ambient lighting that offers 64 different colours in two zones.

Ergonomics were fined tuned by women

This might be hard to believe, but small touches throughout the DBX, including separate central armrests, glovebox design and the ergonomic positioning of the car’s key control systems, have been guided by the input of the Aston Martin’s 'Female Advisory Board', dealership feedback and a variety of private focus groups held worldwide. The DBX is also practical With 632 litres of boot space and 40:20:40 split-folding rear seats.

Needless to say, the DBX is expensive. Retail Prices start GBP 158,000 (RM853.2k) in the UK, with first deliveries scheduled to begin in Q2 of 2020.


Revealed! 2017 Mazda CX-9 Leaked In Detailed Pictures Ahead Of LA Debut

Mazda
’s upcoming CX-9 SUV is due to be officially unveiled at the 2015 Los Angeles Auto Show later this month following a
recent teaser
, and growing speculation has ensued regarding it’s look and specifications. In a turn of events, some new pictures have surfaced through a source via
Carscoops
 showing the car in some detail, inside and out.
Clearly the first thing noticeable upon glance is Mazda’s KODO Soul of Motion design language that it has used for all it’s current generation vehicles and will evolve with its future offerings. It’s unmistakably a Mazda, proving it’s visual approach does translate well across a range of varied vehicle types.
It also does evoke styling cues first seen on Mazda’s rather stunning
Koeru Concept
 crossover seen at the 2015 Frankfurt Motor Show. And perhaps that is the first step in that aforementioned evolution of Mazda’s KODO visual style.
Subjective as looks are, these peeks at the CX-9’s exterior and cabin seem promising to us. However, there isn’t any confirmation yet on powertrains but the tried and trusted SkyActiv G and SkyActiv D four-cylinder gasoline and diesel engines are expected to make a return here as well.


2023 Mitsubishi ASX Debuts - More Of A Rename Than a Rebadge

The Mitsubishi ASX was
one of the first crossovers to hit the road
, and shamefully, Mitsubishi is only now debuting the second generation version of the crossover, 12 years after its initial debut.

The bad/good news depending on how you look at it is that the
second-generation Mitsubishi ASX
 is based on the
second-generation Renault Captur
, and while it is based on the Captur, we just can't get over how much of a carbon copy the Japanese crossover looks like, albeit with Mitsubishi logos everywhere.

Mitsubishi ASX = Renault Captur?

Known as the RVR or Outlander Sport in other markets, the new ASX will be manufactured at Renault's Valladolid plant in Spain and developed specifically for the European market.

While the silhouette and everything else, like the head and taillights is unmistakably Captur, there are
some elements of Mitsubishi in it
, namely the front face, which carriers Mitsubishi Motors' Dynamic Shield design concept, featuring Mitsubishi's strong-looking grille staging the iconic three-diamond logo.

Many powertrains to suit needs - Mitsubishi ASX

Just like the Captur
, there's a wide range of powertrain options, with the plug-in hybrid sitting at the very top.

The 160HP/144Nm plug-in hybrid (PHEV) model features a 1.6-litre gasoline engine, two electric motors (an alternator-starter and a main motor), an automatic, multi-mode gearbox, and a 10.5 kWh battery.

The 141HP/148Nm full hybrid (HEV) model is comprised of a 1.6-litre gasoline engine with two electric motors, an automatic gearbox, and a 1.3 kWh battery.

The 156HP/270Nm mild hybrid model combines a 1.3-litre direct injection turbo with a 7-speed double-clutch automatic transmission (7DCT), and the entry model is available with a 90HP/160Nm 1.0-liter turbocharged gasoline engine and a 6-speed manual transmission.

A Smartphone-link Display Audio (SDA) is located at the centre of the instrument panel, and the Multi-Sense system controlled via the SDA allows the driver to select the drive mode that best suit their preference.

Mitsubishi driver-assistance system

In addition, advanced driver assistance systems such as MI-PILOT single-lane driver assistance technology for highways, which integrates Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) and Lane Centering Assist (LCA), are available to support safe driving.

Mitsubishi Motors Corporation is a member of the Renault and Nissan alliance, so while we can understand the sharing, the level or lack of personalisation by Mitsubishi does leave a lot to be desired! Even the wheels are the same as the Captur, couldn't they have at least changed that?!