2022 Hyundai Staria vs 2021 Toyota Alphard - Can The Staria Challenge The King Of MPVs?

Is the 2022 Hyundai Staria a realistic alternative to the much-loved 2021 Toyota Alphard?

There's no denying it, one of the most favoured cars in Malaysia is the good ol' Multi-Purpose Vehicle (MPV).

From
budget
 to
premium
, Malaysians can't get enough of MPVs, and they have every right to be in love with them - as they are the most practical cars you can buy on the market.

They have plenty of seats, can haul friends around comfortably, and are favoured by families because of the extra space inside. MPVs also tend to have a more practical approach to interiors than regular cars, which is one of the reasons why parents love them.

From a luxury standpoint, the pinnacle of a luxury MPV is of course the
Toyota Alphard
, and it pretty much rolls around unchallenged. But what if you are bored with the Alphard? and you prefer to have something that doesn't make you just another sheep in the flock?

Well, a certain Korean manufacturer has just built a luxury MPV aiming at the crosshairs of the Toyota Alphard. This manufacturer is Hyundai, and this luxury MPV is the
Staria
 - an MPV that wouldn't look out of place in a futuristic movie set.

To understand whether the Hyundai Staria is actually a viable alternative to the Toyota Alphard, we draw your attention to the table of comparison below:

2
022 Hyundai Staria vs 2021 Toyota Alphard

Index

Hyundai Staria

Premium

Toyota Alphard

3.5L

MSRP

RM358,888

RM446,609

Engine Displacement

2.2-litre

3.5-litre

Fuel

Diesel

Petrol

Transmission

8-speed A/T

8-Speed A/T

Horsepower

176

221

Torque (Nm)

430 @ 1,500 to 2,500 rpm

361 @ 4,600 rpm

Dimensions in mm

(LxWxH)

5,253 x 1,995 x 2,000

4,945 x 1,850 x 1,895

Entertainment & Conveniences

Ambient Lighting

2-Zone A/C

8" Touch Screen Infotainment system

Smart Entry (Key)

Start System (Key)

12-speakers Bose

Wireless Charger

Apple Carplay & Android Auto connectivity

A/C front seats

2nd row Captain Seats (with one touch Power Recline and Ottoman+ A/C)

Ambient lighting

3-Zone A/C

 9"  Touch Screen Infotainment system

Rear occupant entertainment screen

Smart Entry (Key)

Start System (Key)

8-speakers

Wireless Charger

Apple Carplay & Android Auto connectivity

A/C Front seats

2nd row Captain Seats (with Power Recline and Ottoman)

Airbags

6

7

ISOFIX

2 (2nd row)

2 (2nd row)

Safety

ABS, ESC, VSM, EBD, TCS

Hill-Start Assist Control (HAC)

Blind-spot Collision-Avoidance Assist (BCA)

			Blind-spot View Monitor (BVM)

Rear Cross Traffic Collision Assist (RCCA)

Lane Keeping Assist (LKA)

Smart Cruise Control with Stop & Go (SCC w S/G)

			Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA)

Safe Exit Assist (SEA)

Rear Occupant Alert (ROA)

High Beam Assist (HBA)

Driver Attention Warning (DAW)

Leading Vehicle Departure Alert (LVDA)

Pre-collision System (PCS)

Lane Departure Alert (LDA)

			With Steering Assist & Lane Tracing Assist (LTA)

Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC)

Automatic High Beam (AHB)

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

			With Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist (BA)

Vehicle Stability Control System (VSC)

			with Traction Control (TRC)

Hill-start Assist Control (HAC)

Blind Spot Monitor (BSM)

It might not seem like it at first but feature wise, it does appear that the Hyundai Staria is in fact an alternative to the Toyota Alphard.

The Staria has pretty much everything the Alphard has plus or minus a couple of things. The Staria is down on airbags, rear entertainment as well as A/C zones. But apart from that, it pretty much matches up to the Toyota Alphard's features pound-for-pound, even trumping it in a couple of departments such as seat ventilation, and driving safety features.

The Staria is also bigger than the Alphard and you can really feel it if you step out of the Alphard and walk straight into the Staria. If you don't have them side by side, you wouldn't really notice the space difference.

The Staria also has a
good powerplant
 albeit a diesel one which doesnt really shout out luxury but still, the diesel powerplant in the Staria is refined and quiet and you will barely hear it when you are inside.  From the performance figures, it does seem like the Staria has more useable torque than the Alphard, as it kicks in from a lowly 1,500 rpm which is great for city driving. Yes, the Staria is down on horsepower, but if you aim to drive at high speeds, then perhaps a sportscar would be better suited, as MPVs are afterall tall family vehicles.

Looks wise, the Staria is definitely an unconventional looking
MPV
, and this maybe an advantage or disadvantage depending on who you ask. Some say that it looks amazing, while others say the futuristic look is just a bit too much. Nonetheless, we think both the Alphard and Staria look good in their own right.

We guess the biggest challenge for the Staria is people's perception towards Hyundai. Whether you are willing to pay around RM360k for a Hyundai is totally down to you, but feature wise, there's nothing the Staria cannot do compared to the Alphard. We also think that the Korean MPV is as luxurious as the Alphard and definitely a good alternative to the much
loved Toyota MPV
.

The biggest question however remains to be, how much are you willing to pay to be different?


First Drive: Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 - Permanent Race Mode

At the end of last year, to cap off one of the most challenging 12 months in modern civilisation, Porsche organised a track day in Sepang to showcase their new 718 Cayman GT4, which was
launched back in July
 alongside its open-top twin, Boxster Spyder

We only had access to half of the SIC and were limited to 5 laps each, so I wondered if that would be enough time to come to any worthwhile conclusions about the car that hasn’t already been parroted elsewhere.

The GT4 has been met with plenty of fanfare with people holding it up as possibly even better than the maestro itself,
the 911 GT3 RS
. But here, I suspect that the hype was amplified by the prospect that the flat-six itself was becoming extinct, replaced in the Boxster and Cayman pair with a turbocharged alternative with 2 fewer cylinders.

This is the second time around that Porsche’s GT division has trotted out a lightened, track-focused Cayman - the first was for the
previous 981 generation
 before the range was grouped under the 718 moniker.

Stuffed with a mid-mounted 4.0-litre naturally aspirated heart transplanted from the GT3, albeit down-tuned to 420PS and 420Nm, the new Cayman GT4 was seen as a prophetic return as well as a signal of Porsche’s attention to feedback.

This GT4, though quite similar to the previous version, wasn’t just a newer, improved version - it represented something, and a renewed commitment to the flat-six was echoed again with the 718 Boxster and Cayman GTS 4.0.

Hearing that signature scream as it stormed down the SIC back straight made me a little giddier than usual for my slot, which was coming up next. Upon first impressions of stepping into the driver’s seat, the GT4 surprised me by how much it disagreed with the size of my head, made worse by the XL-sized helmet that protected it, made worse by the fixed carbon bucket seats that pretty much wedged more than a little too far forwards.

Pretty quickly, though, the car started to ease me into the experience and its world of speed and sensory distortion. That delicious soundtrack that blended valve train, intake, and exhaust noise was blaring in my ears, though I only dared to shift at 6,000rpm (2,000rpm shy of the limiter), but by the end of the straight was reaching 250km/h before leaning on the carbon ceramic brakes.

The sheer stopping power had me hesitating as I considered how much speed just vanished without so much as a twitch from the car itself, and missed the corner apex. It became clear that I was the weakest link and the next 4 or so laps would be defined by me trying to keep up with the GT4.

Instead, it continued to shock and impress by being so forgiving in spite of my inputs, which felt blunt compared to how composed and competent the car handled. It’s the kind of car that really does flatter your skills, lacking as they were in my case, into taking more and more liberties to explore the full potential of chassis and powertrain.

Unfortunately, my 5 laps were over before I could really start to form a groove with car and track, but I could almost taste what the GT4 was teasing: a blinding endorphin rush lurking just behind my inhibitions. More time was needed, even if I would’ve been just as slow.

Returning my borrowed helmet to the rack was also slower than usual as my mind was frantically trying to summarise my thoughts from the past 10 minutes. I realised that, while the Cayman GT4 is like a greatest hits collection of Porsche’s GT division, it’s a car that delivers a sensation that very few others do.

Every other car that you might call a ‘Cayman rival’ seems compromised when compared against the GT4. They all have a turbocharged engine, dual-clutch gearboxes (or some other automatic), aren’t as committed to keeping weight to a minimum, or are just a little too big and disconnected for their own good. In a world where so much high performance feels too easy and artificial, the Porsche’s ‘entry level’ GT model boldly, stubbornly, presents a challenge.

Rather than just taking you on a thrill ride, the Cayman GT4 is one of those cars that’s defined by the experience rather than numbers or specifications. There are faster cars than this but very few - especially new ones - that makes you feel so central. As corny as it sounds, it surrenders so much of its abilities into your feeble hands, slowly compelling you forward to become the kind of driver it deserves to have behind the wheel. That is rare.


Ford revealed some figures to show that EVs can actually save you money and help save the planet

Ford has unveiled some figures to show that EVs can actually save you money and help reduce gas emissions.

It seems that Ford is starting to get fed up with the notion that EVs are just as evil as their fuel-powered counterparts, which is why they have unveiled some information to show that
their EVs
 can actually save you some money as well as how they can help reduce harmful emissions.

According to Electrek, an American news website dedicated to electric transportation and sustainable energy, Ford has recently revealed how much money an owner of one of its EVs can save over the life of the vehicle as well as how much they can help reduce CO2 emissions over the same period of time.

Anti-EV people have always argued that electric vehicles create more emissions than fuel-powered cars during their production, and while that is true, they can quickly be offset by the lack of emissions during use.

According to a recent article published by Electrek, Ford has come out and said that if you drive an electric car and use the US electrical grid to charge it, you can reduce C02 emissions by as much as 60% when compared to a similar ICE vehicle. The larger the vehicle, the greater the savings over time, they said.

For fuel savings, Ford found out that owners of the F-150 Lightning electric pickup truck can save more than $27.2K(RM120k) throughout the lifetime of the vehicle. This is based on current fuel prices and compared to a similar fuel-powered F-150. In addition,
Mustang Mach-E
 owners can save nearly $15,000(RM66k), and yes, while it is not as much as the F-150, it is still some decent savings.

While these figures are somewhat respectable, only those who care about nature will buy into the emission decrease, but we think the savings from fuel cost is where most people will take notice.


WHAT IF: Mitsubishi Made The Lancer Evolution XI And It Was This Awesome?

The Lancer Evolution suffered an untimely death at the end of its 10th-generation in 2016, and in the 5 years that have passed there have been an unrelenting call for its return, yet it's always met with stony silence from Mitsubishi. What if
that changed
?

These are some renderings of what the Evo XI might look like, created by artist
Enoch Gonzales
, which takes plenty of inspiration from the rally-bred high-performance saloon car’s past but also adds some modern touches that stem from some of Mitsubishi’s newer designs.

As for what else serves as the basis for these designs, we do see a few hints of the newest
Lexus IS
 thrown in there, especially towards the rear past the C-pillar. However, it’s the front end that captures most of our interest.

The clamshell bonnet is a lovely touch, for one thing, complete with the requisite vents on the bonnet that frame those deep-set headlights that resemble the 8th-generation Mitsubishi Galant. Its daytime running lights are rather cleverly shaped as well, looking aggressive while resembling an inverted M - and the same goes for the light bar at the rear, which nicely complements the big boot spoiler when lit.

Speaking of lights, the rally-inspired fog lamps with their 7 individual LED illuminators are an awesome touch. They flank a gaping mesh grille that allows for maximum airflow to what we imagine to be the kind of huge intercooler and radiator package needed to keep a monstrous turbocharger cool and properly boosted.

The proper quad exhaust exits are fitted out back, the kind with the diameter and resonance needed to keep the neighbours awake every night.

We can only speculate at what Mitsubishi might plan in terms of a powertrain for a next-generation Lancer Evo, but that might not be as straightforward as fitting a 2.0-litre four-cylinder with the biggest turbine that’ll fit into the engine bay.

According to a report by Brit mag Autocar (in 2019), Japanese-based sources say Mitsubishi could be looking to leverage its connection to Renault and Renault Sport to tap into the next Megane RS’ development. Currently, the
most potent version
 of the French hot hatch utilises a 1.8-litre MR turbo-petrol to output about 296hp, but who knows what might be planned for its successor.

Normally, 300hp might be something worth bragging about, but Evos of the past had versions coming with over 400hp fresh from the showroom, all derived from a very modest displacement in typical WRC style. We’re assuming that an all-new Evo XI won’t want to lose a power race with its former selves - that would be embarrassing.

That said, a much more interesting technical hurdle to see tackled would be how Mitsubishi would go about resurrecting and improving upon their legendary Super All-Wheel Control system, something that’s arguably even more integral to the DNA of any Lancer Evo than its engine.

Though the automaker has
joined forces with the Renault-Nissan Alliance
 since 2016 and even prior to that has been keeping its focus squarely on volume models like its range of SUVs, crossovers, and MPVs, it’s possible that their R&D division has never stopped working on S-AWC, waiting for the right moment to unleash it.

The report also says that the upcoming Lancer would sit upon the shared CMF-C/D F4 platform that’s also been adapted for the Renault Megane, Nissan Qashqai, and Infiniti QX50. It isn’t the most cutting edge of vehicle architectures but has proven itself to fit a wide variety of needs. More importantly, it would give Mitsubishi a pretty big palette from which to engineer their next C-segment saloon. And from there, another supercar-beating high-performance version.

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5 Things That Make Driving In The Rain Dangerous, And How You Can Avoid Them

So, it’s the rainy season here in KL (honestly, it's become a lot harder to predict the weather lately), making it the best time to be prepared for wet-weather motoring.
We shared with you our driving tips for
getting through a flood
, and then on several occasions, showed you the devastating effects heavy downpours can have on vehicles, like this
poor BMW i8 in Thailand
.
Now, with the above video of a white Porsche going airborne after a slippery rain accident making its rounds on social media not too long ago - and the immense rains we've just seen hit the KL, we thought it best to be taking you through the several types of rain-related accidents that could happen on while on the road, and sharing with you some insight into how you can avoid being a casualty.
In short, the best way to navigate your way through the rain is to drive slowly and carefully. Rain itself causes poor surrounding awareness (poor visibility, hearing) – if you can’t see or hear what’s happening around you, your chances of getting into an accident naturally increases. But what really catches most drivers off guard is a lacking understanding of what happens to your motoring when it starts to rain.
Aquaplaning:
If you haven’t heard of this term before, best pay attention now. Aquaplaning, also known as hydroplaning, occurs when your tyre completely loses contact with the road surface because too much water has come between your tyre's contact patch and the road surface.
Regular road tyres have grooves/ threads in them, and they’re not just for show. The grooves on a tyre are there for the specific purpose of channelling any water you drive over away from disrupting your contact patch (specific areas of where tyre meets road). You can think of these grooves/ threads as a drainage system, funnelling water away to make sure the most rubber is in contact with the road.
However, even with a well-threaded tyre, there is a point when too much speed paired with too much standing water can overwhelm your tyre’s abilities to work efficiently, and that’s when you begin to aquaplane. Worn tyres with shallow grooves face a higher chance of this happening, with theoretically a poorer “drainage” system to displace standing water.
Unfortunately, once this happen, you’re usually just along for the ride, unable to do anything about it until your tyres can regain traction again. The results of aquaplaning are usually devastating, as demonstrated in the clip above.
To avoid aquaplaning, always reduce your speed according to how wet the roads are, and how much standing water exists. A better understanding of what aquaplaning is itself should give you a great head start on preventing it. Watch for and avoid driving through any standing body of water.
Go here for a more thorough
video explanation of aquaplaning by TyreSafe
.
Speeding into a body of water
With most roads and highways designed to be higher around the middle and then curve lower towards the edges, standing water is bound to build up there when the rain gets heavy – we’re sure you’ve noticed water running down mostly along the sides of the road when it rains.
This occurrence makes it especially dangerous for drivers going too fast in the right-most lane on highways, where the build-up of water isn’t consistently visible. It’s easy to assume that because there isn’t a flood, it’s safe to come through at your regular speed.
Attempting to drive into a body of water with both front wheels diving in at once typically results in aquaplaning (as described above), but the vulnerability we’re talking about here is when that body of water only comes into contact with one side of the vehicle.
The result, depending on how much water and how fast you were going, can be a sudden and forceful slowing effect on one side of your car, while the other side of the vehicle continues its forwards momentum: thus creating a pendulum effect that vaults the nose of your car towards the side that slows down more – inattentive drivers may suddenly be faced with a violent steering pull to one side.
In effect, some drivers may take for granted being able to speed on the right-most lane without seeing any flood water, but all it takes is for one bit of standing water to slam you into a concrete wall or worse. Modern vehicles equipped with various vehicle stability management features may fare a safer fate than those without, but these systems never guarantee your safety 100%.
Where possible, stay on the middle lane, and avoid the edges of the road where standing water builds up.
Poor visibility and hearing
It’s hard enough for most to keep distractions at bay while driving under normal conditions, but when it rains, two of your most important senses on the road are more impaired than ever: seeing and hearing.
As hard as your windscreen wipers can work at sweeping away water off your windscreen, heavy downpours can reduce your visibility range all the way down to just 20 metres at times – more or less, depending on how heavy the rain is – effectively reducing your anticipation and reaction times.
Impaired visibility is one thing, but with rain heavily crashing down on your roof, you’ll also find it difficult to hear surrounding vehicles, reducing your situational awareness. Poor surrounding awareness only results in poor decisions made, and with that, a similar fate to the vehicle in the video above.
Again, these are all reasons for you to avoid being distracted further by mobile devices or anything else. And while focusing on seeing other vehicles and obstacles around you, remember to keep yourself visible to other motorists as well: turning on your headlamps as soon as you require turning on your windscreen wipers is a safe benchmark.
Not braking early enough
The purpose of braking is understood simply enough: to slow down. When it rains, however, its application and purpose becomes quite different.
For one, wet brake rotors don’t perform as well as dry ones when it comes to stopping power – more so for high-performance vehicles that use highly heat-dependant ceramic material brakes.
When it rains, it’s imperative that you maintain a greater distance between yourself and the car ahead of you to give yourself more time and space to go gentle with brake pedal depression. Gentler braking with a bigger gap maintained ahead of you also gives drivers behind an earlier indication of your intentions to slow down.
After you’ve emerged from driving in any level of standing water, also remember to “dry” off your rotors by gently pressing on the brake pedal – a few extended presses and you should be in the clear.
Drivers should also be wary of the potential of uneven braking forces when braking too hard. Advance active safety features like the electronic brake force distribution systems help to even out braking forces evenly according to the pre-set bias on all four wheels, but aren’t totally free of the issue – when a car endures heavier braking bias at the rear, for example, the front-end of the car becomes “loose” and is easily influenced (by tyre rotation, weight distribution etc.) to swerve wildly in any direction. A braking bias to the right side of the vehicle, caused by wet, inefficient brakes on the left, can result in a vehicle throwing itself wildly towards the right on heavy braking (a similar result to driving into a puddle of water on the right side alone, as explained above).
Probably explains why the Volkswagen Golf in this video completely lost it while seemingly driving straight and true.
Drivers with cars that aren’t equipped with electronic brake-force distribution features (Myvi, Axia, Saga etc.) should be especially wary of this, and how they could swerve wildly in any direction by simply pressing the brakes too hard.
*Image courtesy of Blog Jalan Raya Malaysia Facebook page
Watch for falling objects (Trees)
With strong winds and loose branches, you never know. As best as you can, try to avoid stalling your vehicle under areas shaded by lots of trees. If you're on foot, better still to avoid the area at all cost. You never know when a weak tree branch could break off and fall right on your vehicle.
It's not so bad a thing if a small piece falls on your roof, but you can easily imagine what it must be like when a large piece falls and smashes your windscreen, let a lot a whole tree pinning your car to the ground.
Now be careful on the road!
To finish off our rather heavy guide to driving safely in the rain, here’s a light, amusing video of a Formula 1 driver getting it completely wrong in the wet, while demonstrating his enlightened skill for all of Moscow to see.


Suzuki Motor Corp Appoints Naza Eastern Motors As Malaysia Distributor

As Naza Group turns 45 years old, they are welcoming it by announcing the formation of Naza Eastern Motors Sdn. Bhd. who will play the role as the official distributor of new Suzuki cars in Malaysia.

The appointment allows for Naza Eastern Motors Sdn. Bhd. to sell and provide after-sales service for
new generation Suzuki
 vehicles only.

SM Nasarudin SM Nasimuddin, Group Executive Chairman/CEO, Naza Corporation  Holdings said, “It brings us great honour to be able to work with a Japanese automotive giant that successfully captured the hearts of Malaysian consumers during its years in the  Malaysian market. The team at Naza Eastern Motors is committed to ensure we build on  the strong reputation Suzuki has established by providing quality products that are  reliable, desirable and cheerful.”

“We are delighted to return to the Malaysian market with the NAZA Group as our distributor. Our experience with the Malaysian market has been delightful due to the huge acceptance from our customers, and we greatly appreciate the continued trust for
Suzuki
. We are looking forward to introducing our latest award-winning cars to these loyal Suzuki fans,” said Kinji Saito, Senior Managing Officer, Executive General Manager,  Global Automobile Marketing, Suzuki Motor Corporation.

Suzuki's first 3S showroom will be located in Naza Automall, Petaling Jaya where a keen-eyed reader of ours spotted the
Suzuki Swift Sport
 parked just outside. This leads us to believe that it will be the first model to be launched very soon. We'll bring you more updates as it happens.

“Over the years, Suzuki has produced great products that have piqued the interest of many around the globe. We are looking to kick-start Suzuki’s reintroduction in Malaysia by
launching 2
 of its most discussed and desirable models this year. Loyal Suzuki fans can also expect an exciting product line-up in the subsequent years.” says Dato Nik Hamdam  Nik Hassan, Group Chief Executive Officer, Automotive Group, Naza Corporation  Holdings.

Good luck Suzuki, may you not go the way of Peugeot and Kia!


Volvo: Pembeli Kereta Elektrik Mewah Tidak Bimbang Dengan Limitasi Stesen Pengecas EV

Pembeli kereta elektrik mewah Volvo tidak bimbang dengan limitasi stesen pengecasan pada
kenderaan elektrik
 (EV).

Volvo Car Malaysia
 kekal komited untuk menghapuskan semua model enjin pembakaran dalaman (ICE) secara berperingkat menjelang 2030, walaupun penggunaan
infrastruktur pengecasan EV
 di Malaysia agak ketinggalan, kata Pengarah Urusan Volvo Car Malaysia, Charles Frump dalam temu bual dengan radio BFM.

Di peringkat global, Volvo Car Group menyasarkan kenderaan elektrik bateri (BEV) untuk menyumbang separuh daripada jualan globalnya menjelang 2025, juga untuk menghentikan sepenuhnya model ICE (termasuk hibrid plug-in) menjelang 2030.

Apabila ditanya sama ada ini boleh dicapai di Malaysia, Frump berkata, “Sejujurnya kami ingin melihat ia berlaku lebih pantas di sini. Persekitaran adalah betul dan kami mahu memimpin dalam bidang ini (
EV
). Sudah tentu menjelang 2030, kami hanya akan membina kereta elektrik sepenuhnya, jadi itu juga perlu berlaku di Malaysia.”

EV akan kekal mahal tetapi kos pemilikan EV lebih rendah berbanding ICE

Frump agak berterus terang dalam mengatakan bahawa disebabkan sifat EV sebagai teknologi yang lebih baru dan lebih maju, ia sudah tentu akan lebih mahal daripada kereta enjin pembakaran yang setara, dan ini tidak mungkin berubah sehingga penghujung dekad ini.

Walau bagaimanapun, pembeli juga harus mempertimbangkan hakikat bahawa
EV memerlukan hampir sifar penyelenggaraan
, tidak seperti kereta enjin pembakaran biasa (ICE).

“Satu perkara yang saya fikir pelanggan perlu menyesuaikan diri ialah mereka perlu melihat jumlah kos pemilikan, bukan hanya kos pendahuluan, tetapi apa yang anda belanjakan untuk pembaikan dan apa yang anda belanjakan untuk bahan api berbanding elektrik. Dalam jangka masa yang panjang, jurang kos antara ICE dan EV akan menjadi setara apabila membuat perbandingan yang lebih realistik sebegini”.

Apabila ditanya mengenai
cukai jalan yang tinggi untuk EV
 (temu bual dijalankan sebelum pembentangan Bajet 2022), Frump berkata industri automotif dan dasar berkaitannya telah dibina berasaskan enjin pembakaran selama lebih 100 tahun.

Jadi ketika ini, setiap pengeluar kereta dan pihak kerajaan pastinya akan mengambil masa untuk menambah baik polisi EV, seiring peralihan ‘masa depan adalah kereta elektrik’ (
the future is electric cars
) seperti pegangan Volvo ini.

“Tetapi apa yang saya gembira untuk melihat adalah visi kebanyakan kerajaan di dunia dan kebanyakan syarikat kereta adalah sama, mereka mahu melihat elektrik menjadi sistem pendorong yang dominan untuk kereta, dan mereka perlahan-lahan menggubal dasar tersebut, menambah baik dan melaraskannya seiring peredaran masa”, kata Frump.

Pembeli kereta elektrik mewah akan membina stesen pengecasan mereka sendiri

Seperti kebanyakan teknologi baharu, sudah tentu akan ada halangan untuk orang ramai namun, Frump percaya bahawa terdapat sebahagian pengguna yang tidak menjadikan kekangan sebagai halangan.

Mengenai
limitasi stesen pengecasan
 yang terdapat di Malaysia ketika ini, Volvo Car Malaysia berpendapat ini tidak menjadi masalah buat pelanggan setia mereka.

Volvo XC40 Recharge
 yang akan dilancarkan di Malaysia tahun depan misalnya, akan dibeli oleh pelanggan yang sudah mempunyai kereta mewah yang lain, ujar Frump.

Justeru, golongan pelanggan ini berkemampuan untuk membina stesen pengecasan di kediaman masing-masing yang memudahkan mereka untuk mengecas EV.

“Jika anda ingin melakukan perjalanan jauh ke Ipoh atau ke mana sahaja dan anda agak bimbang tentang stesen pengecasan, kesemua pelanggan kami hanya akan menggunakan kereta mereka yang lain. Pelanggan kami tidak hanya mempunyai satu kereta mewah jadi, mereka mempunyai rancangan alternatif untuk memintas limitasi sebegini”.

Tetapi sudut pandang Volvo ini secara tidak sengaja mengesahkan apa yang disyaki ramai - bahawa EV hanyalah mainan untuk orang kaya?

Jika anda dari kelas pertengahan atau berpendapatan rendah, kekurangan stesen pengecasan EV adalah perkara yang wajar diambil kira, apatah lagi jika anda hanya memiliki satu kenderaan sebagai mod pengangkutan.

XC40 Recharge model elektrik sepenuhnya

Melalui laman web rasmi Volvo Car Malaysia,
XC40 Recharge
 kini dibuka untuk pendaftaran minat pelanggan dan akan dilancarkan pada suku pertama tahun hadapan (Q1 2022).

XC40 Recharge memberikan jarak perjalanan 418 km, dan bateri 78 kWh yang digunakan boleh dicas kepada tahap 80 peratus kapasiti dalam masa 40 minit menggunakan saluran outlet 150 kW DC. Selain itu, WallBox tiga-fasa 11kW melalui penyambung Type 2 pula boleh mengecas penuh dalam masa 7.5 jam.

Dalam penawaran spesifikasi paling tingginya, XC40 Recharge menghasilkan 408 PS dan 660 Nm tork melalui tetapan dua motor, membolehkan pecutan 0-100 km/j dalam masa 4.9 saat dan had laju maksimum 180 km/j (dihadkan secara elektronik).

Walaupun Frump tidak memberikan sebarang petunjuk harga untuk pasaran Malaysia, namun XC40 Recharge dijual di Thailand bermula dari 2,590,000 juta Baht (RM 330,000).

Model dalam pasaran Thailand itu diimport dari China (CBU) jadi kemungkinan harga di Malaysia tidak akan banyak berbeza, jika
pengecualian duti import CBU
 diluluskan dalam Bajet 2022 nanti.  Atau mungkinkah XC40 Recharge akan terus di-CKD di Malaysia memandangkan yang kesemua model Volvo yang dijual di Malaysia kini adalah model CKD.

Model EV pertama di Malaysia oleh Volvo ini adalah langkah progresif pihaknya untuk mengurangkan jejak karbon kereta secara konsisten dan Frump berharap, pelanggan Volvo turut mengambil langkah yang sama dengan bertukar kepada kenderaan EV.

Tapi mungkin bagi mereka yang berkemampuan sahaja, bukan? Bak kata Frump,
the car is not for everybody.


BMW And Audi Sold Record Number of Cars, But Mercedes-Benz Sold Even More To Claim No.1 Title

At the surface, it might appear that BMW and Audi is losing ground to Mercedes-Benz, whose current product offensive is bringing the three-pointed star to a new golden age of Stuttgart. In truth, BMW have been selling more cars than ever before, as are their Bavarian colleagues in Ingolstadt’s Audi.
What’s happening is that the premium segment is growing faster than ever before, but Mercedes-Benz grew faster than everyone else.
BMW just broke a new record for themselves by closing 2016 with 2,003,359 cars sold. It’s their sixth record breaking year in a row. The numbers don’t include MINI, Rolls-Royce or BMW Motorrad motorcycles.
Closer to home,
BMW Group Malaysia
 also had another record breaking year, growing by 16 percent to sell 10,906 vehicles. Out of these, 9,000 were from BMW, 902 from MINI and the remainder from BMW Motorrad.
Audi too is having a good year. Despite what dieselgate news surrounding the Volkswagen Group might have you thinking, Audi hit a new record high in 2016 by selling 1,871,350 cars. In fact, sales of their most expensive R and RS models crossed the 20,000 mark for the first time, hitting 20,200 cars. Audi’s flagship R8 grew 31.8 percent to contribute 2,890 cars sold.
All their numbers however, were overshadowed by Mercedes-Benz, which pulled ahead of BMW by just 4 percent to claim the title of the best-selling premium automotive brand in the world.
Mercedes-Benz ended 2016 by selling 2,083,888 cars. The numbers don’t include cars from its smart (the brand is spelled in lower case) sub-division.
With all the brand’s respective sister-brands added, the BMW Group sold 2,367,603 vehicles (includes MINI, Rolls-Royce, BMW Motorrad). Excluding its motorcycles, the BMW Group sold 2,222,571 four-wheelers.
As for Mercedes-Benz Cars, which also includes smart, a total of 2,228,367 cars were sold.
Much of Mercedes-Benz’s gains were contributed by China and Europe. Sales in China grew by a double digit 26.6 percent (sales in the Asia Pacific region grew 19.3 percent). The brand’s European operations also did well by growing 12.4 percent. Curiously, it retreated 0.8 percent in USA.
It’s a similar story for BMW, which grew 9 percent in Europe and China, but retreated 9.7 percent in USA.
Oddly, Audi not only shrugged off the dieselgate that’s surrounding parent company Volkswagen Group, but even profited at the expense of BMW and Mercedes-Benz to grow 4 percent on ground zero of dieselgate. 2016 was also marked the seventh consecutive annual growth registered for Audi.


Porsche Took The Cayman GT4 RS Ice Racing To Prove eFuels Work

Porsche is ready to prove to the world how much potential
their renewable synthetic fuels
 have, and expect to be on target to produce 130,000 litres of the stuff in 2022 with production ramping up significantly after that.

Zuffenhausen is big into what they call eFuels, essentially a synthetic, renewable, and sustainably produced substitute to petrol that can be used in today’s engines with zero-to-minimal modification that also delivers significantly reduced carbon emissions.

To prove the viability of this, they took several units
of the Cayman GT4
 RS and GT4 Clubsport high up into the Austrian Alps for an ice race.

At Zell am See, and powered entirely by Porsche’s eFuel, the mid-engine performance Porsches were expectedly faultless.

The biofuel substance itself is made from food waste products that were produced using electricity generated by wind power in a dedicated plant in Chile, making the process itself nearly completely carbon neutral. The resulting e-methanol is further synthesised into petrol that’s fully compliant in all modern engines,
even in racing
.

The transition to electric mobility is one they’re still committed to, but it’s clear that this will not happen fast enough to achieve the goals set out by the Paris Agreement.

Additionally, this shift will inevitably happen at varying rates in different regions, meaning the combustion vehicles we rely on today will remain on the roads for quite some time.

Porsche sees the development of carbon-friendly, environmentally sound, and renewable fuels as essential in the global journey toward the reduction of humanity’s carbon footprint, allowing the some 1.3 billion existing vehicles on the road to make their own contribution to the planned rapid CO2 decline without forcing everyone to
buy and use an EV
.

“We urgently need a solution for the sustainable operation of existing fleets,” stresses rally legend Walter Röhrl. “This goal can be achieved with green fuels, which are a sensible complement to electric vehicles.”

“It’s a great hope of mine that in the future I will be able to drive old cars without a bad conscience because I am running them on eFuels,” adds Röhrl.  “Fuelling a 50-year-old car with eFuels – that's pure sustainability.”


Cara Pemasangan Kerusi Keselamatan Kanak-Kanak – ISOFIX vs Tali Pinggang Keledar

Kerusi keselamatan kanak-kanak pada kereta boleh diletakkan di dalam kereta menggunakan
ISOFIX atau tali pinggang keledar
. Yang mana lebih baik?

Pemilihan kerusi keselamatan kanak-kanak yang sesuai dan cara pemasangan yang betul sangat penting supaya kerusi keselamatan kanak-kanak tersebut dapat berfungsi dengan sepenuhnya untuk melindungi penumpang
kanak-kanak
 jika berlaku pelanggaran.

Menurut pengeluar kerusi keselamatan kanak-kanak terkenal di Belanda, Maxi Cosi, kedua-dua cara tersebut adalah bagus dan selamat digunakan. Tetapi, dua-dua cara tersebut hadir dengan kelebihan dan kekurangan masing-masing.

ISOFIX

Kelebihan

Ujian keselamatan menunjukkan bahawa ia sangat selamat, memberikan sambungan yang kuat ke bingkai kereta

Mudah dipasang dan risiko pemasangan yang salah amat rendah – 94% ibu bapa menggunakan ISOFIX dengan betul.

Sokongan kaki penahan atau penambat
top-tether
 dapat meningkatkan kestabilan dan meminimumkan pergerakan kerusi ke hadapan.

Kekurangan

Tidak semua kenderaan mempunyai ISOFIX

Sesetengah kerusi keselamatan kanak-kanak yang menggunakan ISOFIX tidak boleh digunakan pada tali pinggang keledar.

Kerusi jenis ISOFIX biasanya lebih mahal berbanding kerusi jenis tali pinggang kerana cara penghasilan serta material yang diperlukan untuk menjadikan ia lebih selamat.

Kebiasaannya, kerusi ISOFIX lebih berat daripada kerusi jenis tali pinggang.

Tali Pinggang Keledar

Kelebihan

Selamat untuk digunakan jika dipasang dengan betul

Penggunaannya lebih fleksibel kerana pemandu bebas menukar kerusi keselamatan kanak-kanak dari satu kereta ke satu kereta lain tanpa perlu risau sama ada kereta tersebut mempunyai ISOFIX atau tidak.

Kekurangan

8 daripada 10 ibu bapa yang tidak berpengalaman didapati tidak memasang tempat duduk kanak-kanak dengan betul semasa menggunakan tali pinggang keledar. Ini akan mengurangkan fungsi perlindungan yang ditawarkan kepada kanak-kanak dalam kemalangan.

Tempat duduk kereta yang menggunakan tali pinggang keledar memerlukan lebih banyak masa untuk dipasang berbanding tempat duduk yang dipasang dengan ISOFIX.

Kesalahan yang paling biasa adalah tidak menarik tali pinggang dengan cukup ketat, atau tali pinggang terpusing.

Cara Pemasangan Kerusi Keselamatan Kanak-Kanak

*Kredit foto: MIROS

ISOFIX

Sistem ISOFIX ini memastikan kerusi keselamatan kanak-kanak dapat diikat dengan kukuh untuk menahan ianya daripada bergerak dan berputar semasa berlakunya pelanggaran. Sistem ISOFIX ini boleh digunakan dengan 2 cara iaitu dengan menggunakan penambat ISOFIX dengan
top-tether
atau penambat ISOFIX bersama kaki penahan.

Cara Pasang

Penambat
top-tether
 boleh didapati di bahagian yang berbeza pada kenderaan seperti belakang kerusi, di bumbung dan lain-lain bergantung pada jenis kenderaan.

Top-tether
 perlu diikat dengan kemas pada penambatnya.

Sesetengah penambat top-tether mempunyai indikator menunjukkan kerusi kanak-kanak itu telah diikat dengan kemas dan sempurna.

Kerusi keselamatan kanak-kanak yang mempunyai kaki penahan perlu dilaraskan supaya platform tidak bergerak.

*Kredit foto: MIROS

Tali Pinggang Keledar

Kaedah pemasangan tali pinggang keledar, perlu dirujuk kepada manual kerusi keselamatan kanak-kanak dan label panduan pemasangan yang terdapat pada kerusi tersebut. Setiap produk mempunyai laluan pemasangan tali pinggang keledar yang berbeza. Gambar diatas merupakan contoh pemasangan kerusi menggunakan tali pinggang keledar yang betul.

Penggunaan Kerusi Keselamatan Kanak-Kanak Mengikut Barisan Tempat Duduk Penumpang

Barisan Pertama

Secara umumnya tidak dibenarkan meletak kerusi keselamatan kanak-kanak menghadap ke belakang kecuali bagi kenderaan yang tidak mempunyai beg udara penumpang hadapan atau kenderaan yang mempunyai fungsi mematikan beg udara sama ada secara manual atau automatik.

Kerusi kanak-kanak menghadap hadapan dibenarkan untuk diletakkan pada kerusi penumpang hadapan.

Disyorkan agar kerusi penumpang hadapan tersebut dilaraskan ke posisi paling belakang.

Barisan Kedua

Bagi kenderaan yang diluluskan pengeluarannya pada tahun 2015 dan ke atas, terdapat minimum 2 sistem ISOFIX di tempat duduk kiri dan kanan.

Sistem ISOFIX ini mengandungi ISOFIX dan top-tether.

Kerusi keselamatan kanak-kanak menghadap belakang dan hadapan dibenarkan dipasang pada kerusi di barisan ini.

Terdapat 2 cara untuk pemasangan iaitu menggunakan sistem ISOFIX ataupun tali pinggang keledar 3 poin.

Tali pinggang 2 poin tidak dibenarkan untuk digunakan bagi memasang kerusi keselamatan kanak-kanak kerana tidak menepati spesifikasi pemasangan kesemua jenis kerusi kanak kanak yang diluluskan.

Barisan Ketiga

Kebanyakkan kenderaan hanya dilengkapi dengan tali pinggang keledar 3 poin pada barisan tempat duduk ini.

Kerusi keselamatan kanak-kanak menghadap belakang dan hadapan dibenarkan dipasang pada kerusi di barisan ini.

Tetapi bagi kerusi keselamatan kanak-kanak menghadap hadapan ianya perlu dipastikan mempunyai jarak sekurang-kurangnya 55cm, di antara penyandar hadapan dan penyandar belakang kerusi kenderaan.

Tali pinggang 2 poin tidak dibenarkan untuk digunakan bagi memasang kerusi keselamatan kanak-kanak kerana tidak menepati spesifikasi pemasangan kesemua jenis kerusi kanak kanak yang diluluskan.

Kesimpulannya, kerusi keselamatan kanak-kanak jenis ISOFIX mahupun tali pinggang keledar mampu memberikan perlindungan yang berkesan pada kanak-kanak jika berlaku
kemalangan
. Yang paling penting, tempat duduk tersebut haruslah dipasang dengan betul terutama bagi yang menggunakan kerusi kanak-kanak jenis tali pinggang.


BMW 318i Goes Four-Cylinder, Ditches B38 1.5L, No Plans For Malaysia

BMW’s G20 generation 3 Series will be gaining a new entry-level variant, which will carry the 318i designation. However, the major difference between this new car and its F30 forebear is the omission of the previous generation’s 1.5-litre three-cylinder unit.

As of 2020, the range-opening 318i is now confirmed to be powered by the same B48 2.0-litre petrol engine as 320i, 330i, and 330e. This makes the entire 3 Series family (except for the M340i) an exclusively four-cylinder affair.

This shift away from their old strategy is an unusual move, previously utilising the B38 mill with an output of 134hp and and 220Nm, an engine and tune also found in many MINI models. Given the tighter regulations on fuel and CO2 emissions, a smaller engine was perceived as a necessary evil.

That said, the larger 2.0-litre engine, while matching in displacement and internals with the 330i and newly introduced 320i, has been detuned further to offer power and torque similar to the outgoing 318i.

While not earth-shattering, the new engine’s 155hp and 250Nm slightly outguns the unit found in the older 318i. According to early published numbers, the larger engine’s less strained nature does result in improved fuel efficiency and lower carbon emissions compared to the smaller but more stressed 1.5-litre.

BMW boasts 5.5-litres/100km (a 0.2-litres/100km improvement) in fuel consumption on the combined cycle while 100km/h arrives in 8.4 seconds from rest (0.5s quicker), but that’s decisively outgunned by the 320i’s more powerful 184hp and 300Nm. Drive will, as usual, be sent to the rear wheels via an 8-speed ZF automatic.

In markets that already have the 320i already in the range, such as Malaysia, it might not make too much sense to introduce a less expensive 318i and risk potentially cannibalising the variant directly above. BMW Malaysia says there currently no plans to bring the 318i to our shores.

Elsewhere, BMW Australia has already stated that the Down Under introduction of a new 318i is also looking rather unlikely. But given that even the 320i Sport is fairly well equipped, there could be room for a more budget-friendly variant.


Yes, Mazda Used 'That' Water Bottle Trick, Plus How Jinsha Ittai Became Jinba Ittai

By now you would have seen enough Mazda ads to know that the phrase ‘Jinba Ittai,’ meaning one-ness between a rider and a horse, is central to Mazda’s brand image.
The phrase was first used by Mazda in a Japanese language brochure of the first NA 1990 generation MX-5 (sold in Japan as the Eunos Roadster). English versions of the brochure in the UK merely gave a literal translation of “Man and Machine as one.”
1990 brochure, Japan
1992 brochure, UK
Jinba Ittai only went global sometime in 2010, when Mazda embarked on a new global marketing campaign that centred on its Hiroshima heritage. Like Audi’s Vorsprung durch Technik, Mazda took a gamble and used a Japanese language tagline for all its overseas markets, but what a success it was.
What is less known to the world however, was that the phrase Jinba Ittai started out within Mazda as ‘Jinsha Ittai,’ meaning one-ness between driver and car. Clearly this made more sense than one-ness between rider and horse (Jinba Ittai). So why did Mazda replaced the Japanese word car with horse?
This answer can be found in a historical anecdote from 1987, two years before the first NA generation MX-5 was introduced.
Toshihiko Hirai (below) was the NA MX-5 program manager - Mazda’s equivalent to an executive chief engineer. Jinsha Ittai was frequently mentioned within Mazda but the slightly rebellious Hirai started printing the word ‘Jinba Ittai’ on his business cards.
The reason? Unlike a car, horses constantly read the rider’s behaviour and adjust its movements accordingly. For example, a skilled archer riding on a horse can adjust his position to aim for a target, having full faith that his horse will compensate for his shifting weight balance.
Hirai wants to replicate that feeling of trust and one-ness between riders and their horses in Mazda cars but of course, it’s impossible for cars to behave like horses. For Hirai that’s the whole point.
By establishing an idealised character that was impossible to quantify, Hirai set a target that is clear enough to get the job done but yet vague enough to offer endless opportunities for continuous improvements.
Unlike their Western counterparts, the Japanese view targets rather differently. The Western concept of a numerical target offers no further progress once a target is achieved. After becoming No.1, no further progress is possible and falling back to No.2 seems more likely.
With Jinba Ittai, achieving the ideal state now becomes a lifelong quest, one that’s passed from one generation of engineers to another.
Even after the MX-5 was launched, the template for Jinba-Ittai is still not complete. It is one thing to establish Jinba Ittai on a two-seater roadster, and quite another on a mass market family sedan or SUV.
In comes budding semi-professional footballer Yasuyoshi Mushitani, who in 1989, had stayed up overnight just so he can be among the first to order the NA MX-5.
An avid footballer who once played in the Japanese minor league before joining Mazda's Chassis Development Department, Mushitani once suffered a severe injury on a football pitch and had to undergo physiotherapy to learn how to walk again.
In that time, Mushitani developed an interest in the field of bio-kinematics. After having to re-learn how to walk again, Mushitani understood the how with better balance comes better confidence in walking. Mushitani wondered if the same learnings could be applied to make better cars.
He studied deeply on how our body moves and balances itself, how our spine and pelvis work to support bi-pedal steps - a fancy word for upright walking with two legs.
Mushitani also derived many different ways to measure a car’s balance when driving – including using an Initial D-style swirling water in a cup method. But as he is a real engineer and not a tofu delivery driver in some anime, water movement was observed using a marked bottle rather than an open cup, complemented by a ball on a G-bowl - the picture that you saw at the beginning.
Nearly 10 years of research later, this basic DNA of ‘Jinba-Ittai’ was developed.
Mushitani found that the ideal seating position for a human is when our spine’s side profile forms an ‘S-shaped’ silhouette, with the pelvis upright. This is the natural position the human body will become when we are in a zero gravity environment.
Our neck muscles also work hard to keep our head upright. Reducing any unnecessary motion of the head is the main purpose of Mazda's GVC (G-Vectoring Control) feature. Explaining how GVC works is a separate topic, but in summary, it uses a combination of ignition timing control to shift the vehicle's weight ever so slightly while cornering. The end result is reduced fatigue and driving confidence.
Supporting this ideal zero gravity-like seating position also why all new Mazda seats are now designed to maintain that ‘S-shaped’ position of our spine, while maintaining an upright pelvis position so drivers can better feel the car’s balance.
Our body’s natural sense of balance can be represented as a motion along a spherical shape. This understanding forms the basis for Mazda’s chassis tuning – where sprung mass are tuned to rotate along a virtual sphere.
Many car makers understand this as well but what separates a good and excellent handling car is the way diagonal motion is transmitted though the car.
Achieving ideal Jinba-Ittai requires diagonal edges of the car to respond without delay, in harmony with the sensation that a driver feels though his/her pelvis. In the upcoming, all-new Mazda 3, this is achieved using a multi-directional ring structure within the chassis.
As humans, our motion is also influenced by sound. Sounds like road and engine noises are crucial for a keen driver, as it helps them gauge how close a car is to its limits. At the same time, drivers also want a quiet drive. Achieving the right balance between the two is always difficult for driver-oriented cars, in the same way a BMW is typically not as quiet as a Mercedes-Benz.
Also, sound proofing materials are heavy and more weight also means higher fuel consumption and poorer handling, both of which are enemies of Mazda’s vehicle dynamics gurus.
To find the right balance, Mazda studied how humans perceive sound, and what they found surprised them. Their studies show that humans are actually less annoyed by the intensity of noise, but more by the rate of change in frequency and change in direction of sound.
For example, the sound energy inside an aeroplane’s cabin is far higher than a car’s but many passengers don’t find it uncomfortable, because our brain filters out the constant level noise as white noise.
With these new learnings, Mazda changed its strategy to deal with cabin noise, from merely adding heavy sound proofing materials to controlling the way sound energy is dispersed within the cabin.
Mazdas are driver-oriented cars but they are not a Mercedes-AMG or a BMW M. The goal is not to set a lap record, but to deliver joy and smiles in everyday driving conditions. Hence the focus on humans, rather than how best to attack a circuit.
“Basic DNA is the tree trunk, while the branches and leaves are things like handling, brakes and NVH [noise, vibration, and harshness]. Based on this, we engineer the car so that it behaves in line with human sensations and our innate sense of balance. For example, as well as speeding over mountain passes, you should feel perfectly in tune simply driving at 10 km/h in a car park — that is my Jinba Ittai,” said Mushitani.
The upcoming all-new 3 is the first of many more Mazda models to incorporate all these additional advancements in delivering an even more Jinba-Ittai driving experience. You may read our driving impressions of the Mazda 3 prototype
here
.


Top 5 Things To Do After Buying A Used Car

Buying a used car need not be such a nerve-wracking affair – now we are not denying there isn’t a fair share of less than great examples on sale and the odd unscrupulous dealer or private seller.

Nevertheless, the majority of used cars are normally in decent condition for their age, simply because used car dealers themselves will not accept a car that is too rough a condition because it’s not cost-efficient to repair all problems to a satisfactory state and still make money off selling the car.

However, we do stress that it is paramount to do your homework and
due diligence
 prior to buying a used car – as it’s always better to be safe than sorry. We have covered these topics in detail but what if you have already bought a used car or in the final stages of purchasing a used car, well, here’s a shortlist of five things you can do to make sure you covered your bases and can enjoy a car that feels almost as good as new.

This list should be relevant to most used cars, anywhere from 5-15 years old. You can follow our checklist in the order that we have presented it.

1. Get it up on a hoist

The chances are that 99 percent of buyers would not have got their used car up on a hoist before purchasing it. So if you haven’t, don’t wait too long after taking ownership of your car to get it on a vehicle hoist and get a clear look under the car.

This will allow you to have a close look at the suspension, transmission, brake system, exhaust, and fuel delivery systems. It is also an opportune time to spot oil leaks and sort them out. And while you're there, replace worn-out brake pads and even change suspension parts that might be on their way out. This way, you can rest assured everything under you – the major mechanical bits – are all working fine.

2. Get a diagnostics done

Regardless if you have done a thorough diagnostics prior to buying your used car. There is no harm in conducting a diagnostics check-up, say a month or two after owning your car. Think of it as a simple check-up at the doctors. Conducting a diagnostics at your chosen mechanic/specialist workshop frequently, helps you detect problems ahead of time, which normally gives you more options to repair and/or remedy the problem.

In many cases, frequent diagnostics allows us to check on recurring error messages/fault codes before those components fail completely and cause bigger issues. Hence, if the same sensor has triggered a fault code repeatedly over two different diagnostics sessions, it is a good idea to start looking at the symptoms of failure, what can go wrong if the part fails completely, and the best time to replace it. This also helps you plan your finances for repairs down the line. This may not be as important for simpler cars but is a good practice for owners of premium or performance cars which normally have systems that are more complex.

3. Get it serviced

This is perhaps the most important step in making sure your car is in tip-top shape. Some used cars might have been serviced prior to the sale but there is no harm in changing all the major fluids after you have taken possession of your car. Get your engine oil and engine oil filter replaced, check the brake fluid, transmission oil, and power steering fluid, and renew your radiator coolant. Replacing the spark plugs (if due) also goes a long way.

Image credit:
Andrea Piacquadio
 from
Pexels

Also, it’s not a bad time to check on the car battery’s health, engine mounts, and replace the engine's accessory belts if required. These items don’t cost much to replace but can cause a world of trouble if they suddenly malfunction while on an outstation journey.

4. Get a wheel alignment service done

Now if you already got the first three items checked off – the next thing to do is a proper wheel rotation and alignment service. This will allow you to ascertain the health of your tyres and ensure the toe, camber, and caster settings of your vehicle are good so it steers true drives great.

Image credit:
NRMA Australia

Wheel alignment can have a substantial effect on how the car feels so don’t overlook it. It is highly recommended that you get a wheel rotation and alignment service done every 6 months/10,000 km. Wheel alignment and rotation also helps prolong the life of your tyres.

5. Get it cleaned… really clean!

Now that you have your car running good and driving great, it’s time to make sure it is presented well. And of course, this is probably the most fun part. If the budget allows, get your car to a proper detailer so they can give your car a proper cleaning operation. Typically, this involves getting your car polished, waxed, and protected on the outside, and cleaned using a variety of methods on the inside.

With detailing packages averaging just over RM150, and running into the thousands depending on who you ask – do your research and get a package that suits your budget best. Remember, you normally get what you pay for – because you’re not just paying for water and soap, but the skill and technique of the detailer. Or if you prefer, look up videos on Youtube on how you can learn simple steps to detailing your own car, because no one loves your car as much as you.

Now that your checklist is complete, you should have a used car that looks, sounds, and goes the way it should, and with careful TLC along the way, should provide you with a worry-free and enjoyable ownership experience.


Smart #3 set to electrify the roads: Officially launched, 4 variants, starting from RM136k

The Smart #3 will probably be the next vehicle
to be launched in Malaysia
 after the Smart #1.

Smart #3, the dynamic SUV coupe born from the collaboration between Geely and Mercedes-Benz, has officially hit the markets of China.

Packed with style and innovation, this electrified vehicle from Smart comes in four enticing variants: Pro+, Pulse AWD, Premium, and the exclusive Brabus Performance edition, limited to only 1,999 units.

With its sleek dimensions of 4400mm (length), 1844mm (height), 1556mm (width), and a wheelbase of 2785mm, the Smart #3 commands attention on the road.

Inside, it boasts a cutting-edge 12.8-inch central control screen, along with the advanced Smart Pilot Assist ADAS system, offering L2+ autonomous driving capabilities.

For the ultimate personal touch, the Smart #3 offers nine vibrant body colours and a staggering 15 colour combinations to choose from.

The Pro+ variant features a single front motor, delivering an impressive 268hp power output and a 66kWh battery, providing a range of up to 555km on CLTC cycle.

The Pulse 4AWD variant is the pinnacle of performance, offering a staggering 422hp power output, a peak torque of 543Nm, and a range of up to 520km on CLTC cycle. This variant comes equipped with a dual-motor setup, with a 200kW motor at the front and an additional 115kW motor at the rear.

The Premium variant, on the other hand, is a front-wheel-drive model with a 200kW motor, offering a remarkable driving range of up to 580km.

As for the exclusive Brabus edition, it boasts the same dual-motor setup as the Pulse variant, generating a thrilling 422hp power output. With its sporty design and luxurious features, it accelerates from 0 to 100km/h in just 3.6 seconds and completes the 0-400m sprint in a remarkable 11.97 seconds, according to Smart.

All variants come equipped with a 66kWh battery supplied by CALB and Sunwoda. The aerodynamic design of the Smart #3 shines through with an impressive drag coefficient of 0.27 Cd.

The delivery of Smart #3 will commence this month in China, with plans to conquer the European market in 2024, as confirmed by Smart.

Will it make its way to Malaysia? well, we will have to see when
Proton New Energy Technology
 launches the Smart #1 at the end of the year - but it's a no-brainer if Pro Net wants to expand Smart's presence here.


Program Bantuan Banjir Honda Malaysia - Diskaun 25 Peratus, Pemeriksaan Percuma Dan Elaun RM1,500

Honda Malaysia
 menawarkan Program Bantuan Banjir bagi meringankan beban yang dialami oleh para pelanggannya yang terjejas akibat banjir baru-baru ini.

Menerusi program ini, syarikat bakal menawarkan diskaun 25 peratus untuk alat ganti tulen serta pemeriksaan percuma kenderaan bagi yang melanggan Honda Insurance Plus (HiP).

Sebagai tambahan, pelanggan HiP yang mengalami kerosakan akibat banjir juga disediakan dengan khidmat trak tunda untuk dibawa ke pusat servis Honda sah berhampiran dan menerima elaun banjir sehingga RM1,500.

Honda Malaysia juga bekerja rapat dengan pihak insurans untuk
menilai kerosakan bagi urusan tuntutan
 kepada pelanggan mereka.

HiP dengan tiga teras utama iaitu Rescue, Protection dan Savings seiring dengan komitmen
Honda Malaysia
 dalam menawarkan kelegaan kepada pemilik menerusi perlindungan yang menyeluruh untuk kenderaan mereka selain bantuan jalanan sepanjang masa dan di mana juga lokasi.

Pengarah Urusan dan Ketua Pegawai Eksekutif Honda Malaysia, Madoka Chujo berkata, pihaknya turut bersedih dengan
situasi bencana banjir
 yang berlaku mengakibatkan ramai terpaksa meninggalkan kediaman mereka selain berdepan kerugian kerana kerosakan harta benda dan kenderaan. Beliau berharap program ini dapat membantu meringankan beban para pelanggan mereka yang menjadi mangsa banjir.

Untuk maklumat lanjut Program Bantuan Banjir Honda dan HiP boleh layari www.honda.com.my atau hubungi talian bebas tol Honda Malaysia 1-800-88-2020.


Tokyo 2017: Mitsubishi e-Evolution Concept – The Evo Is Now A Coupe-SUV

The upcoming 2017 Tokyo Motor Show will play host to the introduction of the e-Evolution concept – a Coupe-SUV packed with the company’s latest in Artificial Intelligence (AI), electric drivetrain and all-wheel drive technology.
The concept is said to be “beacon” of the company’s renewed ambition and ushers in a new era of long-term growth and sustainable development for the company. Not to mention, the return of the 'Evolution' badge, synonymous with the company’s high-performance products of the past.
Mitsubishi Motors’ newfound enthusiasm comes as the broader Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi Alliance revealed their ‘Alliance 2022’ plan which strengthens cooperation and accelerates the use of common platforms, powertrains, and new technologies.
Under the six-year plan, the alliance plans a major expansion in shared electric vehicle technologies, alongside the development and deployment of advanced autonomous drive systems, vehicle connectivity and new mobility services.
The plan is believed to amount to EUR10 Billion by 2022, with nine-million units based on four common platforms. The plan will also extend the use of common powertrains to 75 percent of total sales.


Review: 2016 Subaru XV 2.0i-P - The Crossover to Settle Down With

When you think Subaru, you think of brutal rally cars blitzing a gravel stage in the dead of night. You think of Mark Higgins setting a new TT record on the Isle of Man in a ProDrive prepared WRX STI. But more recently, you think of the small crossovers that seem to be increasing common on our Malaysian roads.
The XV is as crossover as they get- it's a jacked up Impreza hatchback (that we don't have in our market), with the same powertrain and a few more amenities. Motor Image was clever in forgoing the hatchback in favour of this crossover as it has more appeal and better distinction from other products than the already unpopular hatchback segment.
Specifications:
Price: RM 137,074.89 (OTR with insurance)
Engine: 2.0-litre, flat-4 longitudinal, port injection
Power: 150 PS
Torque: 196 Nm
Transmission: Continuously Variable Transmission, manual override, AWD
Fuel Consumption: 10.9 litres/100 km (tested)
Safety: ABS with ESC, EBD, Brake Assist with Override, ISOFIX, 3 airbags (2 front + driver knee)
Overview
This updated version of the XV comes with a few cosmetic changes that help to refresh its not-too-dated fascia, but thankfully none of the major elements that made it popular have been changed. There are new front and rear lights, as well as bright daytime running lights on the front bumper. The side-mirror integrated turn signals are a nice touch as well, reminiscent of continental car options we don't necessarly receive here. There is also a multi-info display in its revised insrument cluster, keyless entry and start, aluminium pedals, and electric adjustment for the driver's seat. These items, along with contrasting orange stitching, are exclusive to the 2.0i-P variant. The RM 4,000 premium of the 2.0i-P variant nets you the following:
One-touch indicators
Paddle Shifters
60:40 split-folding rear seats with central armrest
Multi-function steering wheel with tilt & telescopic adjustment
Auto climate control
Cruise control
Airbags: dual frontal + driver knee
Safety: ABS, EBD, Electronic stability control (VDC), Brake assist & override, ISOFIX
Engine Immobiliser
Front & Rear Fog Lamps
Halogen reflector headlamps with level adjustment
17-inch alloy wheels

Exterior Design
The XV has always had a certain appeal in the way that its sharp edges and creases portray an image of ruggedness and no-nonsense motoring. Proportionally it is more wagon than SUV, and it looks much like a shrunk down previous-generation Forester. The front end has a look that more traditional Subaru enthusiasts will remember, without being too old fashioned or out of date. The additions with this facelift only serve to accentuate those solid looks.
Interior Design
Subaru interior design seems to be stuck in the mid-2000s, but in a good way. Many of the panels and instrumentation don't seem to be as integrated as the modern infotainment systems of today, but they are still very much usable and clear cut with their readouts.
For a crossover, the XV has a suprising amount of rear legroom and solid headroom. The only tradeoff is a lack of bootspace and a rather high boot floor, making it difficult to load and unload bulky items at times. But on the whole, the cabin of the XV is a very pleasant place to be in- all the amenities are available to the front occupants and the materials and colours are well chosen.
Fuel Efficiency
We know the XV is capable of being fuel efficient, but at this time of year there are plenty of traffic jams to be stuck in- and traffic jams are terrible for consumption. Out on the open highway, the XV can sip along at just 7 to 9 litres per 100 kilometres- but introduce it to some town traffic and the figure can quickly soar to 13 litres per 100 kilometres. With just over 100 kilometres of driving, we managed to even it out to a solid 10.8 litres per 100 kilometres- not the worst figure for fuel consumption, but far off what it can do in the right conditions.
How does it drive?
This is one area where the XV doesn't do so well. The powertrain, while efficient when you need it to be, is the opposite of engaging when you call on it. Arguably spirited driving is not what the XV is designed for, but there are plenty of crossovers out there that are more entertaining to drive. The XV achieves the direct opposite- it makes you want to drive in a more economical fashion, simply because there is no pot of gold at the end of the rpm rainbow. The CVT wheezes and whinges when you put your foot down, and the boxer up front doesn't seem to be particularly enthusiastic either.
Which is a shame, because the symmetrical all-wheel drive system in the XV is one of the most competent out there. Body control is also excellent, despite the long travel suspension and comfort oriented ride. Besides the powertrain, the power steering system leaves a lot to be desired. It manages to be both unnecessarily heavy at low speeds and lacking in feel at high speeds- which once again reinforces the idea that the XV is a car you do not attempt speed in. It is perfectly content transporting a family around town and will do so with fairly good gas mileage.
How comfortable is it?
The XV may sit tall and proud above its hatchback sibling, but make no mistake- it is far from wallowy and mushy. The suspension reacts quickly to shocks, but it does so in a progressive manner and prevents any unruliness from affecting the body on the whole. It errs on the side of comfort, but it a measure of feedback from the tarmac for better communication with the driver.
Conclusion
As a crossover, the XV ticks all the right boxes. It's practical and spacious and economical, compact enough to run in the city but rugged enough for a short off-road jaunt. The driving dynamics may be lacking, but perhaps this is the what you need when you want- nay, need- to settle down.
For a limited time, there's an RM 10,000 cash prize if you
book a Subaru XV with Carlist.my
.


Terbang Dron Tanpa Permit? – Denda RM50,000, Penjara Menanti

Seronok bermain dron? Tahukah anda perbuatan menerbangkan dron tanpa permit boleh menyebabkan anda didenda dan dipenjara?

Kepada yang tidak tahu, sesiapa yang berminat untuk menerbangkan
dron atau kenderaan udara tanpa pemandu (UAV)
 milik masing-masing perlu dapatkan kebenaran pihak berkuasa Penerbangan Awam Malaysia (CAAM) terlebih dahulu kerana penerbangan dron tanpa permit dibimbangi akan mengancam keselamatan dan ketenteraman awam.

Selain itu, penerbangan haram dron juga dikhuatiri boleh digunakan bagi tujuan pencerobohan hak peribadi seseorang seperti tujuan mengintip dan merakam gambar atau video di kawasan yang dianggap kawasan persendirian atau kawasan larangan. Dengan penggunaan dron, perbuatan tidak bertanggungjawab seperti itu akan menjadi lebih mudah.

Ekoran itu, Komander Pasukan Gerakan Udara (PGU), Bukit Aman, DCP Dato’ Mohd Hishamudin Tahar memberi tahu media bahawa penggunaan dron secara berleluasa tanpa mengikut peraturan boleh menjurus kepada kemalangan bencana selain pencerobohan.

Bagaimanapun, penguatkuasaan
undang-undang
 dan peraturan mengenai pengendalian serta pengoperasian UAV terletak di bawah bidang kuasa CAAM. Tambah beliau, penguatkuasaan undang-undang tersebut bertujuan untuk mengawal penerbangan dron supaya dron itu selamat serta tidak disalah guna sehingga mendatangkan ancaman kepada ketenteraman awam serta melanggar undang-undang semasa.

Untuk mengelakkan daripada
didenda
atau dipenjara, orang ramai yang mahu melakukan penggambaran udara menggunakan dron perlu mengemukan permohonan kepada CAAM untuk mendapatkan permit.

Jika anda ditahan ketika mengendalikan dron tanpa kebenaran, anda boleh dikenakan denda minimum RM50,000 atau 3 tahun penjara atau kedua-duanya sekali jika didapati bersalah. Harga denda tersebut mungkin lebih mahal berbanding harga dron milik anda.

Kebenaran penggunaan dron ini diketatkan kerana menurut penyiasatan
PDRM
, sindiket penyeludupan pada masa kini turut dikesan menggunakan dron ketika menjalankan aktiviti penyeludupan manusia serta barangan untuk diseludup masuk ke negara ini. Dron tersebut digunakan bagi mengesan kehadiran anggota keselamatan yang melakukan rondaan.

Mengulas lanjut isu ini, Mohd Hisyamudin mengakui bahawa sindiket penyeludupan kini semakin licik dalam memanfaatkan kegunaan teknologi seperti dron untuk digunakan dalam kegiatan jenayah, khususnya di kawasan sempadan negara.

Dron berfungsi sebagai mata pihak sindiket di udara untuk memastikan aktiviti jenayah mereka tidak dikesan oleh pihak berkuasa di kawasan tersebut. Jika tiada kelibat anggota keselamatan dikesan di kawasan terbabit, sindiket akan mula menyeludup masuk barangan haram ke Malaysia tanpa segan silu.

Walau bagaimanapun, Polis hanya diberi kuasa untuk melakukan siasatan melibatkan kes-kes berkaitan dron sekiranya ia melibatkan unsur-unsur jenayah mengikut Seksyen 477 Kanun Keseksaan iaitu kesalahan berkaitan pencerobohan jenayah atau undang-undang lain di bawah Akta Kawasan Larangan dan Tempat Larangan 1959 serta Akta Rahsia Rasmi 1972.

*Kredit foto: Malay Mail

Adakah anda rasa tindakan PDRM untuk mewajibkan permit untuk menerbangkan dron ini sesuatu yang baik? Sejujurnya, tindakan denda serta penjara itu boleh sahaja untuk dilaksanakan. Tetapi, pihak berkuasa perlu melihat tempat di mana dron tersebut diterbangkan. Lebih baik, kerajaan harus mewartakan beberapa kawasan yang dibenarkan serta dilarang untuk menerbangkan dron supaya ia lebih jelas dan mudah difahami.

Menurut CAAM, semua aktiviti penerbangan UAS atau lebih dikenali sebagai dron adalah tertakluk kepada Peraturan-Peraturan Penerbangan Awam 2016 (MCAR 2016) Peraturan 140 – 144. Jika aktiviti UAS anda tidak dikategorikan sebagai Projek UAS Khas, Operasi Pertanian UAS, diterbangkan secara Perhubungan Visual Secara Langsung (VLOS) di dalam ruang udara Kelas G dan menggunakan UAS berat kurang daripada 20 kilogram, berkemungkinan besar anda perlu membuat permohonan Kebenaran Untuk Terbang (ATF) Standard.

Borang permohonan permit untuk terbang boleh didapati di lawan web rasmi CAAM. Borang permohonan yang lengkap dan dokumen-dokumen sokongan yang diperlukan hendaklah dihantar ke alamat e-mel drone.atf@caam.gov.my sekurang-kurangnya 14 hari daripada tarikh aktiviti yang dicadangkan. CAAM berhak untuk menolak permohonan yang tidak lengkap dan lewat.


New Proton 3S Centre By Regal Motors Opens In Strategic PJ Area

Regal Motors Holdings Sdn Bhd has just officiated their new Proton 3S centre that is now located in Petaling Jaya.
The dealership that previously operated in Old Klang Road has chosen to relocate to the established commercial hub of Petaling Jaya’s Section 13 to serve its customers better as the land area is larger and surrounded by better amenities and infrastructure.
Philip How, Managing Director of Regal Motors Holdings at the launch event said, “The entire outlet has been enhanced to ensure customers can walk into the outlet and could instantly feel the warmth of the entire area. The outlet has been built to make sure it looks like a lifestyle outlet with ample space to move and shop around.”
The new 3S centre, that is located amongst other key competitors’ 3S centres, has a customer’s lounge with a viewing glass (into the workshop), children’s playroom, 12 service bays, and it is manned by a team of 24 dedicated personnel.
Philip believes that with the new 3S centre in Petaling Jaya, and the existing Body and Paint centre in PJS 7 Sunway, he is positive that there will be a 30% to 40% gradual increment in sales thanks to upcoming Proton SUV. As for after sales, he anticipates a 60% to 70% increase due to the strategic location and accessibility.
Commenting on the successful roll-out of 3S centres by dealers nationwide, Encik Abdul Rashid Musa, CEO of Proton Edar said, ”We thank our dealers for their trust in Proton brand. I am sure they have taken calculated risks in moving forward with us. We are optimistic we will be able to turn things around in Proton, and part of the outlet upgrade and enhancements is to bring about a positive image to the brand starting with the establishment of one-stop centres nationwide.”
As at 20th of August, the company has approved 96 outlets for upgrades, representing 88% of their target of 109 outlets by October.
Regal Motors Holdings is located at No. 7B, Jalan Bersatu 13/4, Section 13, 46200 Petaling Jaya, Selangor. The sales showroom is open daily, while the workshop is closed on Sundays.


Proton Pamer Enjin MHEV Di Galeri Inspirasi - Petanda Kereta Hibrid Akan Menyusul?

Adakah
Proton
 bakal keluarkan model hibrid dengan pendedahan enjin Mild Hybrid Electric Vehicle (MHEV) di Galeri Inspirasi?

Proton melancarkan galeri jenama baharunya, Galeri Inspirasi (Gallery of Inspiration) di kompleks Centre of Excellence mereka di Subang Jaya, Selangor.

Terbahagi kepada beberapa zon, galeri ini mempamerkan sejarah Proton, keterlibatan mereka yang berkait secara langsung dengan industri automotif Malaysia, juga rangkaian domestik dan antarabangsa.

Ia turut memaparkan teknologi masa kini dan masa hadapan yang dipersembahkan secara tersusun dan menggunapakai teknologi Virtual Reality (VR) dan Augmented Reality (AR) bagi memberikan pengalaman yang menakjubkan kepada pengunjung.

Pada satu ruangan Our Technology, Proton turut meletakkan tiga trenkuasa enjin yang dilengkapi ciri AR pada tablet sentuh, yang boleh berpusing 360 darjah sekeliling enjin. Apabila diacu pada mana-mana bahagian enjin tersebut, maklumat teknikal tentang komponen enjin akan terpapar pada skrin tablet.

Enjin yang dipaparkan adalah enjin bagi model
X70
 dan
X50
 – 1.8L TGDi dan 1.5L TGDi, tetapi juga sebuah enjin 1.5L TGDi dengan BSG (Belt Starter Generator) yang mengukuhkan lagi kenyataan Proton akan mengeluarkan kenderaan hibrid tidak lama lagi.

BSG adalah salah satu komponen dalam menjana kuasa bagi kenderaan hibrid ringan (Mild Hybrid). Gabungan BSG dengan
enjin pembakaran dalaman (ICE)
 akan menghasilkan Mild Hybrid Electric Vehicle (MHEV), yang dijana oleh bateri
lithium-ion
 48V, yang berfungsi sebagai penghidup motor dan bank kuasa (
power bank
) untuk membantu enjin.

Terdahulu, Proton telah
mengesahkan perancangan pembinaan model hibrid, plug-in hybrid (PHEV) dan kenderaan elektrik sepenuhnya (EV)
, sejajar pengumuman kerajaan dalam Bajet 2022.

Ketua Pegawai Eksekutif Proton Edar, Roslan Abdullah turut berkata, Galeri Inspirasi ini akan menunjukkan kepada pembeli, apa yang akan ditawarkan pada masa hadapan dan apa yang mereka boleh jangkakan dari Proton.

Walaupun tiada kenyataan rasmi dari Proton, namun pameran enjin MHEV ini seakan memberi petanda positif akan
model hibrid Proton
 tidak lama lagi. Sama-sama kita nantikan!

Sejajar dengan semangat cintakan tanah air, anda bolehlah berkunjung ke Galeri Inspirasi yang dibuka kepada orang ramai pada setiap hari Isnin hingga Jumaat, bermula jam 8.30 pagi hingga 5.30 petang.


Do It Yourself: A Quick Guide On How To Purchase A Fancy Vehicle Registration Number

A guide on how to look for that dream vehicle registration number that you have always wanted!

Vehicle registration numbers aka number plates are one of those things that place either real significance to someone or represent just another set of numbers on the car.

While some treat it as a law-abiding part of their car, some celebrate it as a sign of social stature identification or a vehicle accessory that has special meaning. Whatever it is, every car must have one.

While its initial purpose was a means to identify cars, it has become somewhat of a cash cow for one of the government's agencies as some car owners look for specific vehicle registration numbers which will cost them a pretty dime. The collection money from vehicle registration plates has provided millions of ringgit to the Road Transport Department (JPJ), so it's no surprise that they have invested some tech making the number purchasing process easier.

In the old days, people resorted and depended on salesmen and runners to purchase their special vehicle registration numbers, but for those who really want to grab the bull by the horns, you can simply buy these vehicle registration numbers manually at RTD or use RTD's digital platform, mySIKAP.

To purchase specific vehicle registration numbers at RTD one only needs to go to one of their many branches, where they will be presented with a list of numbers that are on sale. A tendering process is still necessary for unique numbers (not as complicated as it sounds), but the unfavourable numbers can easily be bought on the spot.

For those who prefer to look and purchase these numbers online, mySikap will probably be the easiest way to do so. However, to be registered on mySIKAP, it still requires you to labouriously go to an RTD branch where you have to register and open a public mySIKAP account.

mySIKAP is more than just a website where you can purchase a vehicle registration number though. It can also serve as a place where you can renew your driving license, apply for an international license, summons check, vehicle alterations application, application of vehicle transfer and much more.

To register for mySIKAP you will need to bring along with you your Malaysian identification card (I.C.) as well as prepare an email address so that they can create a verification code personalised to you. Once the verification code is available you will need to go to mySIKAP's website, where you can then create your account.

Purchasing a vehicle registration number on mySIKAP is as easy as identifying one that you like, where you can then proceed to purchase it via the many forms of online payment such as FPX, VISA or Mastercard. mySIKAP however does have its limitations as it only sells ordinary running numbers, not the unique and rare vehicle registration numbers that are most sought after.

To go for those unique and most wanted numbers, you will still have to unfortunately bid for them at RTD's other portal called JPJeBid. JPJeBid is the Online Vehicle Registration Number Bidding System initiative by the Road Transport Department Malaysia (JPJ).

It was created for transparency from registration to payment, not like what you will have to go through when purchasing vehicle registration numbers from middlemen. To get on JPJeBid you will still need a mySIKAP account where you can then proceed with the same process to bid for a fancy vehicle registration number.

The bidding can start from as low as RM300 and can go all the way up to RM1.308 million ringgit which is still the record holder for the most expensive vehicle registration number plate (number plate "Patriot 1").

So bid away for that fancy number but remember, once bought, if the number is not transferred to a new car (only new vehicles) in 12 months it will be considered null and void without any refunds. For more information on how JpJeBid works, visit
here

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
.


All-New 2016 Chevrolet Colorado Open For Booking

Naza Quest Sdn Bhd, the authorised distributor of Chevrolet vehicles in Malaysia announced yesterday that the all-new Chevrolet Colorado is now open for booking at all Chevrolet authorised dealers nationwide.
First revealed at the recent Naza Merdeka Auto Fair last month, the second-gen Colorado made its regional debut in Philippines in August along with the Trailblazer SUV.
According to Naza Quest, the Colorado will go on sale with two engines to choose from and in five different variants in Malaysia.
In case you’re wondering what’s new in the new Colorado, there are many. Outside, the truck gets a newly designed front end, as well as LED Daytime Running Auto Headlamps with Follow Me Home System.
Inside, the new Colorado gets Electric Power Steering (EPS), Remote Engine Start system, Apple CarPlay, infotainment system with touch-screen, Lane Departure Warning, Tire Pressure Monitoring System, and Forward Collision Alert among other features.
Under the hood, the new Colorado comes with 3 different engine variants paired to either a 6-speed auto or 6-speed manual gearbox:
2.5L Duramax Turbo-diesel Fix Geometry Turbo (FGT),
2.8L Duramax Turbo-diesel Variable Geometry Turbo (VGT)
2.5 Duramax Turbo-diesel Variable Geometry Turbo (VGT).
Offered in five colour choices; Summit White, Black Meet Kettle, Switchblade Silver, Pull Me Over Red and Blue Mountain, the new Colorado, which is expected to be launched officially within the next few weeks, will come with 5 Years/200,000km manufacturer warranty.
Looking for a Chevrolet? Find one now at
Carlist.my


Tesla: Hitting Top Of The Charts

Tesla has come a long way since its inception in 2003. News of it dislodging Volkswagen to take the number two spot in the most valued car companies of the world is further proof of how far they've come.

The dramatic rise in Tesla's share prices pushed its value to over 100billion, making it the first American car company to do so. Even the valuation of General Motors and Ford Motor Company combined did not scale these heights.

Tesla's share prices have more than doubled since October when the carmaker announced a surprising quarterly profit. The BBC reports that Tesla's rise in price reflects their performance in the last few months and that the factory opening in Shanghai where Tesla met its production goals has contributed to the rise.

The Wall Street Journal also reported that VW head honcho, Herbert Diess was not happy about being dislodged, calling Tesla a tech company instead of a car company. He was also unhappy that Volkswagen Group's valuation was low, despite great accomplishments, including meeting financial targets.

Laughing at the top of this food chain is still Toyota Motor Corporation, valued at over 256 billion.

Ironically despite this increase in valuation, Tesla sales are only a small fraction of its competitors. VW sold nearly 11 million cars last year whilst Toyota sold 9 million in 11 months. Tesla only sold 367,500 cars in 2019, a 50 percent increase compared to 2018.


Bentley Bentayga: Capitalism's Finest Arrives First In Socialism's Greatest

Having first grace the public eye
in the Frankfurt Motor Show
, the all new 2016 Bentley Bentayga makes its market debut at China's Chengdu Autoshow, and goes on sale first in China starting from RMB 3,980,000 (RM2.7 million).
At launch, a special edition that's only limited to 55 units is also available at the price of RMB 4,800,000 (RM3.3 million).
As the world's only 12 cylinder engine SUV - Audi Q7 V12 TDI has ceased production, the Bentayga is also the first one that can reach speeds in excess of 300km/h.
Such outrageous performance is no less the result of that absurdly capable 6.0 litre W12 twin turbocharged engine which pumps out a ridiculous amount of torque at 900Nm, while conveniently leaving the 600hp sort of unworthy of mentioning.
Also, 4.1 seconds is all it takes for the century sprint, the same as the 200kg lighter
Porsche Cayenne
 Turbo S. Impressive? Very much.
Effectively carving out an all new segment of ultra-luxury SUVs, the Bentayga now sits firmly above the rest in pricing and outright oppulence, only to await the inevitable arrival of its in-house competition - the
production version of the Lamborghini Urus
 Concept by 2018.


The 2018 Audi A8 Can Drive Itself, But Will It Be Legal?

One of the key features of the
all-new 2018 Audi A8
 is its AI traffic jam pilot system that not only allows the driver to be hands-off during a traffic jam, but also to focus on other tasks while the vehicle accelerates, steers, and brakes itself without any intervention.
The system operated by a central controller, known as zFAS, which feeds on input from the car’s surrounding radar, front camera, ultra-sonic sensors, and a laser scanner to gain an accurate picture of the vehicle’s surroundings. The use of laser in such an application is a first among carmakers.
A button marked ‘AI’ on the centre console activates the system, which is restricted to operate at speeds no greater than 60 km/h and only on highways where oncoming traffic is separated by divider. When in operation, the system allows the driver to focus his or her attention elsewhere although it may prompt him or her to re-take the wheel if so needed.
Audi acknowledges that introduction of the traffic jam pilot system will require legal clarification at each individual market it sells the A8 in and will depend on country-specific requirements for testing and approval.
As the various countries differ in their respective pace in defining and legislating autonomous driving technology in their legal framework, Audi admits it faces a lengthy a step-by-step approach in its introduction of traffic jam pilot across its line-up in various markets across the world.
Whilst the technology behind autonomous driving systems have been in active development for sometime, the biggest hurdles between car makers and the full roll-out of self-driving cars are legislation and ethics, for both of whic have fundamental questions that remain unresolved as discussed in our guest spot at
Autobuzz.my's Torque Show
 programme recently.


Drift Kings International Series Rocks Malaysia

As 2019 is nearing its finale, it would not be an exaggeration to say that it was indeed a great year for Malaysian drifting fans as we had the opportunity to witness events like the recently concluded Drift Kings Asia International Series (Malaysian round) in Malaysia.

The event, which was brought to you by Exquisite Motorsports Club, Monster Energy, Drift Factory, Dronsta, Ra2 Socialusion, Sudu & Knife, MyCar Malaysia, as well as Carlist.my, took place over two days on the 16th and 17th of December 2019 at the Elite Plus Speedway in USJ.

The series, which originated in Europe and has been dropping by Malaysia every year, saw close to 40 professional drifters from China, Brazil, Japan, Kuwait, Singapore, and Malaysia battling it out for glory.

With cars ranging from Nissan Sylvias, 2JZ-swapped 1000hp BMWS, Toyota Supras, and a whole lot more, it was indeed a feast for all senses for motorsports fans that were present over the weekend.

Besides the action on track, there were many activities for visitors and their families, such as food trucks, a Carnival Zone, meet and greet sessions with the drifters, exhibition booths by automotive aftermarket brands, as well as a huge Monster Energy booth with games and activities for those who stopped by.

“The Drift Kings Asia International Series Malaysian round did not only turn out to be an ideal platform to nurture and explore local talent in the drifting scene, but also to promote the drifting scene among Malaysians. Besides that, the event also played a part in promoting and boosting Malaysia as a popular tourist destination,” said Bullzai, the president of Exquisite Motorsports Club.

He also added that the theme for this year was “Kids Off The Streets”, aiming to increase the awareness of the art of drifting among the youth, encouraging them to take part in it and other healthy activities alike.

That being said, the images and videos of all the action which took place during the event is available for your viewing pleasure in the Drift King International Series, Adrenaline Impact, Drift Factory, and Exquisite Motorsports Club Facebook pages.

*Photo Credit: Drift King International Series


2022 Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid Launched - CKD, Up To 10 Years Warranty - Priced at RM137k

After months of
hyping its imminent Malaysian launch
, the 2022 Corolla Cross Hybrid has finally arrived priced at RM136,550, kicking off 2022 in style for local distributors UMW Toyota Motor.

This is, of course, the first time that a hybrid vehicle from the Japanese automaker has rolled
out of a Malaysian factory
 (Bukit Raja) with much effort and expense going into getting the facilities there up to snuff. In even better news, its local assembly debut coincides with the availability of the rest of the Corolla Cross range in CKD form and prices.

2022 Toyota Corolla Cross 1.8G (CKD): RM123,000

2022 Toyota Corolla Cross 1.8V (CKD): RM129,000

2022 Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid (CKD): RM136,550

Previously, since the range’s initial launch in earlier 2021, all units of the Corolla Cross sold here were fully imported from Thailand. Though there are minor enhancements, the CKD versions of these vehicles remain identical on paper, sharing an unchanged spec sheet and equipment levels.

Onto the star attraction here, the Corolla Cross Hybrid, which naturally sits at the top of the range for 2022. You’ll honestly be hard-pressed to find many visual cues to separate the 1.8V and Hybrid, unless you know what to look for.

It surely is a deliberate effort from Toyota to not distance the two very much as the brand wants the pair to be characterised - chiefly - by its differing powertrains. The 1.8V delivers this via a tried and trusted naturally aspirated motor while the Hybrid offers a more efficient, future-facing alternative through electrification.

From the outside, you’ll need to spot the blue-tinged cluster for its bi-LED headlights, the Toyota brand logo at the front and rear, and of course, the ‘HYBRID’ emblems on the front fender and rear hatch. There's also the Celestite Grey body colour, which is exclusive to the Hybrid variant.

Even inside, the Hybrid is nearly identical to the 1.8V save for some new buttons such as the blue-tinged push start button, variant-specific floor mats, USB-C rear seat charging ports, and two new buttons thanks to its petrol-electric drive system located just north of the gear lever:
EV Mode, Drive Mode
.

Elsewhere we find the 9-inch touchscreen infotainment unit that is now accompanied by a 7-inch Multi-Info Display within the instrument binnacle that displays hybrid-specific readouts. There’s also dual-zone climate control (finally!), though this remains a glaring omission in the 1.8G and 1.8V.

Toyota Safety Sense is also another standard feature with the 2022 Corolla Cross Hybrid, as it is on the 1.8V. This includes Pre-Collision (AEB), Lane Departure Warning, Blind Spot Monitoring, Lane Tracing Assist, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, and Dynamic Radar Cruise Control.

The Corolla Cross Hybrid uses
Toyota’s 4th-generation hybrid
 tech that combines a petrol engine and electric motor working in parallel to drive the front wheels via a CVT. The former is a 2ZR-FXE 1.8-litre naturally aspirated four-cylinder that runs on the more efficient Atkinson cycle and produces 98PS and 142Nm.

On its own, the accompanying electric motor produces 71PS and 143Nm, but when paired with the combustion engine, pushes the total system output to 122PS. That might sound like a downgrade,
especially compared to the 1.8G
 or 1.8V’s 1.8-litre four-pot producing 142PS and 172Nm, but the numbers alone don't paint the full picture.

In practice, and as we experienced during a media preview drive prior to the Corolla Cross Hybrid’s launch, this powertrain feels more alert and spirited especially at low to medium speeds, paired with the refinement and silenced qualities that the electric motor brings to the table.

Performance is measurably improved as well with better acceleration times over the petrol-only variants with the 0-50km/h dash being 2.1 seconds faster and the 0-100km/h sprint being 0.9 seconds faster.

Its parallel hybrid configuration, which differs from series hybrids such as PHEVs that have become more popular these days, is also inherently lighter and more compact, leading to only a modest weight increase of just 25kg (to 1,430kg) over the petrol-only variants. Another upshot is the packaging solutions this makes possible as the 440-litre boot capacity is also unchanged.

The biggest advantage, however, is obviously fuel economy. Toyota claims that the Corolla Cross’ hybrid electric drive system, which is all but identical to that found in the latest 4th-generation Prius, is able to squeeze up to 23.3km out of 1 litre of petrol.

That said, Toyota has had to reduce fuel tank capacity to 36-litres (from 47-litres) in order to accommodate the air-cooled 6.5Ah nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) battery beneath the rear seats, reducing its theoretical maximum endurance. Although, with the added efficiency of that hybrid powertrain, all 3 variants of the Corolla Cross are about level with regard to range on a full tank.

Knowing that Malaysians might need a little extra assurance when it comes to vehicle electrification tech, UMW Toyota will be supplying each Corolla Cross Hybrid with an impressive 8-year, unlimited mileage warranty that covers the battery, inverter, and power management control unit. Basically, the whole hybrid system.

This 'hybrid warranty' may be further extended for two additional years
(for a total of 10 years coverage!)
 at a cost of RM2,950. The rest of the car, though, will be covered for 5 years (unlimited mileage) via the standard Toyota manufacturer’s warranty.

With the Corolla Cross being the first locally assembled hybrid offered by Toyota, how many more electrified models can we expect in the future from the Japanese brand? More importantly, will the appeal of Toyota’s flavour of hybrid cars successfully translate to the Malaysian market?


Up To 51 Percent of Proton Up For Sale – Skoda, Suzuki, Renault, Peugeot Interested

DRB-Hicom, the government linked conglomerate that owns Proton Holdings, is rumoured to be looking to sell as much as 51 percent of Proton to raise funds to turn around the ailing national car maker.
According a report by Bloomberg, citing two unidentified individuals familiar with the matter, Proton is talking to several interested suitors, which now includes Volkswagen’s budget brand Skoda, Suzuki, Renault and Groupe PSA (Peugeot and Citroen).
"A stake of as much as 51 percent will be sold in Proton, which also owns British sports-car maker Lotus Cars Ltd., two people said," said Bloomberg.
The report also added that the list of suitors will be trimmed down by the end of October.
A separate report by The Star has also linked the Naza Group, the distributor Peugeot and Citroen vehicles in Malaysia, expecting Naza to be involved at a later stage if discussions between Proton and Groupe PSA proceeds well.
Suzuki already has an established ties with Proton, with the upcoming
Suzuki Ertiga
-based Proton MPV to be the first of at least two upcoming Suzuki-based Proton models.
Peugeot, along with the Volkswagen Group have in the past held similar discussions with Proton but didn’t nothing materialized from those talks.
Update:
Proton Stake Sale: 5 Buyers Interested, Decision By 2018