Model Y, Model 3 more accessible to customers now, says Tesla

                BERLIN: Tesla said today that the electric vehicle maker, which cut prices of its Model Y and Model 3 vehicles in the US and Europe overnight, was able to provide its cars at a more accessible price because cost inflation was normalising.

"At the end of a turbulent year with interruptions to the supply chain, we have achieved a partial normalisation of cost inflation, which gives us the confidence to pass this relief onto our customers," a spokesman for Tesla Germany said in a statement.

The lower pricing across Tesla's major markets marks a reversal from the strategy the automaker had pursued through much of 2021 and 2022 when orders for new vehicles exceeded supply.

Tesla CEO Elon Musk acknowledged last year that prices had become "embarrassingly high" and could hurt demand.

The US price cuts, announced late Thursday on the Model 3 sedan and Model Y crossover SUV, ranged between 6% and 20% compared with prices before the discount, according to Reuters calculations.

That is before an up to US$7,500 federal tax credit that took effect for many electric vehicle models at the start of January.

Tesla also cut prices for its Model X luxury crossover SUV and Model S sedan in the United States.

In Germany, it cut prices on the Model 3 and the Model Y - its global top-sellers - by between about 1% and almost 17% depending on the configuration. It also cut prices in Austria, Switzerland and France.

Still, some users on Tesla fan forums online complained the price cuts disadvantaged customers who had recently bought their vehicle, leaving them with a lower-valued item on the second-hand car market.

"I'm not very pleased with these huge price sways. Just reducing 10,000 euros like that - definitely makes you feel that you just paid far too much," one user wrote on a 'Tesla Drivers and Friends' forum today.


Feel the speed and thrills in 360 degrees

                MILAN: Ever wanted to experience the feeling of riding alongside Honda World Touring Car stars Tiago Monteiro and Gabriele Tarquini? Well, now you can.

Using a breakthrough filming technique that captures the action in 360 degrees, you can ride shotgun alongside Gabriele in his Civic Type R, and Tiago in his Castrol Honda Civic Touring Car, as they power around the Italy's Circuito Tazio Nuvolari.

Tarquini, joined by British Touring cars stars Gordon Shedden, Matt Neal, and Jack Clarke in a quartet of gleaming Type Rs attempt to hold off a rampaging Monteiro and 2015 LCR Honda MotoGP star Jack Miller on his Honda RC213V,

Buckle-up to find out who will claim bragging rights in this unique mixture of two and four-wheel racing. It's a hot-lap like no other, and was shot as part of an event showcasing the technical relationship between Honda and Castrol, as well as the race-bred Honda Civic Type R .


Toyota will start electric SUV production in US as early as 2025, says Nikkei

                TOKYO: Toyota Motor Corp will begin producing mid- to large-sized electric sports utility vehicles (SUVs) at its Kentucky plant as early as in summer 2025, aiming for monthly output of more than 10,000 by the year's end, the Nikkei business daily reported today.

The company aims to sell about 1 million electric vehicles globally by 2026, according to the report.

A Toyota spokesman said the reported details were not something the company had announced, and that there was no decision yet on when EV production would start in the United States.


Buy ASX and get 5-year maintenance and warranty

                PETALING JAYA: Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia (MMM) has announced that customers who buy the ASX will receive five years’ worth of free maintenance and warranty.

Mitsubishi Motors is the first to offer a five-year free maintenance package for the compact SUV segment. The free maintenance offer covers labour charge, engine oil, oil filter, air cleaner, transmission oil, fuel filter, brake fluid and coolant to name a few.(Limited to the first 1,000 units only, terms and conditions apply)

Priced at RM117, 334.31 (2WD variant) and RM131, 828.59 (4WD variant), the ASX is powered by a 2.0-litre MIVEC engine with an output of 150PS and 197Nm. Both 2WD and 4WD variants use a INVECS-III CVT with Sports Mode offering six virtual ratios,  while maintaining superb fuel efficiency.  The ASX is available in four colours- Black Mica, Titanium Grey, Cool Silver and Solid White.


Budget 2017: BR1M recipients encouraged to become ride-sharing drivers

                PETALING JAYA: The Government has announced incentives for the lower income group, particularly 1Malaysia People's Aid (BR1M) recipients, to encourage their participation as drivers of ride-sharing services, such as Uber.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak said those with their own vehicles can raise their monthly income by RM1,500 if they work as part-time drivers for 10 to 40 hours per week.

Those able to work for more than 40 hours per week can earn up to RM4,300 monthly, he added.

The Finance Minister said the Government is also offering a solution to those who do not own a vehicle to become ride-sharing drivers.

“To those who do not own a vehicle, down payment can be made using BR1M and a rebate of RM4,000 will be provided for the purchase of a Proton Iriz,” he said in his Budget 2017 speech today.

 Iriz on the move.

Najib also expressed the Government’s concern for the welfare of taxi drivers, and introduced several measures to keep them competitive.

“I am pleased to announce a grant of RM5,000 to purchase new vehicles and offer individual taxi permits, with an allocation of RM60mil.

“This will benefit 12,000 qualified taxi drivers who have ended their leasing contract with taxi companies,” he said.

He said the Government would also introduce a Socso scheme for individual taxi drivers with a monthly income of up to RM3,000, as most of them are not presently insured.

With a RM60mil launching grant, the scheme will protect taxi drivers against accidents that occur while working.

Under the scheme, they will be required to contribute between RM157 and RM443 per annum.

“Should an accident occur while working, they are eligible to claim from Socso.

“For example, a taxi driver who suffers permanent disability will receive a lump sum payment between RM43,000 and RM121,000 and a monthly payment between RM1,281 and RM2,624, for life.

“In the event of death, the next of kin shall receive dependent’s benefit at a rate from RM945 to RM2,655 per month,” Najib added.


Tata, India's electric vehicle king, takes a frugal road less travelled

Workers working on a Nexon EV at a Tata Motors plant in Pune. — All photos by Reuters
PUNE: To make its first electric vehicle for the consumer market, India's Tata Motors Ltd repurposed an unused shop floor at its flagship plant.

Here, there's no fancy assembly line - Nexon SUV bodies designed for gasoline models are wired and fitted with battery packs by hand.

The area, which could be mistaken for a prototype lab, initially made just eight SUVs a day. But demand has shot up over the two years since the Nexon EV's launch. Tata now makes more than 100 a day though much of that is now handled at another plant nearby.

Even with this humble start, which draws on India's tradition of "jugaad" - a word referring to frugal DIY innovation and workarounds, Tata dominates the country's fledgling electric car market.

That contrasts sharply with other major automakers which have poured billions of dollars into EV tooling and technology from the get-go, though Tata's success also owes much to government subsidies and high tariffs that keep out imports from rivals like Tesla Inc.

Going into India's untried market for EVs, Tata knew it had to make an affordable car for an extremely cost-conscious population.

Instead of building an EV plant or line which would be expensive and take time, it decided to pick an existing successful model and work on outfitting it with a battery pack.

An EV plant for a nascent market would have been "a huge amount of investment sitting on the potential of emerging volumes. We didn't want to do that," Anand Kulkarni, vice president of product line and operations at Tata Passenger Electric Mobility, told Reuters.

Tata also limited upfront investment by relying on Tata group companies for a range of EV components and infrastructure, and by choosing a cheaper battery chemistry type.

That enabled it to price the Nexon EV around US$19,000 (RM83,000) - not necessarily cheap in India but affordable for the upper-middle class and not much more expensive than the top version of the Nexon gasoline model.

With just the Nexon EV and one other model for fleet sales, Tata commands 90% of India's electric car sales, giving it an all-important first-mover advantage even if EVs account for only 1% of the overall auto market.

Last June, Tata outlined aggressive plans to launch 10 electric models by March 2026. This financial year alone, it wants to quadruple EV production to 80,000 cars, sources have said.

Those ambitions attracted US$1 billion in investment from US private equity firm TPG, valuing its EV business at US$9 billion - far below some EV startups but equivalent to 40% of Tata Motors' market value.

"This has definitely given us a significant head-start. It now gives us a force multiplier to aggressively move on EVs," said Shailesh Chandra, managing director of Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles and the EV subsidiary.

Tata has also earmarked US$1 billion of its own money to fund its EV plans and by 2025 Chandra expects electric models to make up a quarter of its sales.

Longer-term, Tata is working on an EV-specific car platform and wants its first car using that architecture to launch in 2025. The company is also evaluating the need for a dedicated EV plant, Kulkarni said.

In the meantime, it plans to modify combustion engine platforms to build EVs with bigger batteries and longer driving ranges. Those models are likely to hit the market in about two years.

Leaning on Tata family

The Nexon EV has a relatively modest real-world driving range of around 200km per charge.

The range is, however, sufficient for most potential Indian buyers, a Tata survey of consumers showed, prompting it to choose a 30 kilowatt hour iron-based battery from China's Gotion High Tech Co, which is cheaper than other lithium-ion batteries. Tata has also judged it safer for India's tropical weather conditions, Kulkarni said.

Gotion is working with Tata AutoComp Systems on assembling the battery packs and on the battery management system.

Tata AutoComp, which sources most of the EV parts, is one of several Tata conglomerate firms that Tata Motors leans on - a huge advantage at a time when many automakers are ploughing funds into becoming more vertically integrated and less reliant on suppliers.

Tata Power Company Ltd is setting up charging stations, Jaguar Land Rover contributes to design while Tata Chemicals Ltd has plans for battery recycling and local cell manufacturing.

When Tata began EV production in 2020, most parts were imported. Today, Tata AutoComp produces around 50% of the components in-house, its CEO, Arvind Goel, told Reuters.

"Our plan is to localise everything," he said.

All of the motor's parts except the magnet are due to be produced locally over the next couple of years. Excluding the cells, the battery will be made in-house and the company is working on its own battery management system, Goel added.

Risks ahead

Tata's EV business is, however, set to face challenges. The government wants 30% of all cars sold in the country to be electric by 2030 and while that goal may look optimistic, competition is on its way.

South Korea's Hyundai Motor and Kia Motors plan to start selling EVs in India this year although their models are set to be bigger and pricier. Expectations are also high for some rivals to launch gasoline-electric hybrids.

"The major threat will come when competitors like Hyundai launch EV models in a similar price band and as Toyota and Suzuki's hybrid cars come into the market," said Gaurav Vangaal, associate director at S&P Global Mobility.

And like other automakers, Tata is struggling to source semiconductors amid a global shortage that has become its biggest challenge in ramping up production and has caused a 5 month backlog in EV orders.

That said, Tata intends to make the most of its enviable lead in India's EV market. It has accrued a trove of data from monitoring the 25,000 EVs it has on the road - particularly relevant for developing electric cars in hot climates, says Kulkarni.

"India has several hotspots which make it a challenge for electrification. Developing EVs in this market provides us with rich data, information which can flow back into our development process. I can't tell you the kind of headstart this gives us," he said.


MyAuto Fest to showcase Hyundai IONIQ concept car

                PETALING JAYA: The Hyundai IONIQ  is old news but what is new is that Malaysians will be able to check out the concept car in person at MyAuto Fest 2016.

It will be on display at Hyundai’s booth during the auto carnival from May 20-22 at Mines International Exhibition and Convention Centre (MIECC).

The IONIQ is the world’s first model to offer three electrified powertrains on a single, dedicated vehicle platform namely the IONIQ Hybrid, IONIQ Electric and IONIQ Plug-in. The IONIQ makes low to zero emission mobility accessible to everyone. It also features the latest connectivity and safety
technologies.

The IONIQ was first introduced at the Geneva Motor Show in March.

Other than the IONIQ highlight, Hyundai is offering attractive discounts on various production models. It is giving up to a RM14,000 discount on the Elantra; up to RM12,000 on the Veloster and Sonata; up to RM7,000 on the Santa Fe; and up to RM4,500 on the i10.

The three-day fest is expected to see 20 car brands giving discounts and attractive offers on over 100 car models. Offers at the fest can be in the form of discounts, a subsidy for interest on car loans or even waivers for downpayment.

Admission is free.

READ MORE: What MyAuto Fest 2016 is


Hyundai reveals 2018 Kona Iron Man edition

                LOS ANGELES: Following the Veloster for "Ant-Man and The Wasp", the carmaker has come up with another Marvel-inspired model for the latest "Iron Man" movie. But unlike the somewhat garish Ant-Man Veloster, which was a one-off special, the Iron Man special edition will actually be available to buy.

Car manufacturers aren't as enthusiastic about special editions as they used to be, apart from high-end automakers such as Rolls-Royce and Aston Martin and those who build pickups like Chevy and Ram. But one company that still does do special editions is Hyundai.

Anyone familiar with the "Iron Man" franchise will probably associate it with Audi, as Robert Downey Jr's character Tony Stark is usually seen behind the wheel of an R8. But Hyundai appears to have gone all out to produce a suitably distinct 2018 Kona that's Iron Man-ready.

And it's done more than just give the crossover a fancy paint job.

The tweaked design and new colour of the upper daytime running lights is a nod to the glowing eyes of the Iron Man mask. The bonnet has also been redesigned and now has an insert that looks like a heat extractor vent, but in fact is just a red plastic piece for cosmetic effect. The Kona is finished in a fetching matte black with a metallic red roof and matching accents all over.

That all sounds fairly discreet, but there's more. The roof is adorned with a whopping great Iron Man mask decal that's anything but subtle. There are also Iron Man mask badges on the wings and wheel centre caps, and the rear doors feature logo decals.

On the inside the Kona has red accents, Tony Stark's signature on the dashboard, and custom Iron Man-themed graphics on the gauges, which even include a special design for the heads-up display.

Although details about the pricing and the size of the limited production run haven't been announced yet, it has been confirmed the Hyundai Kona Iron Man Edition will go on sale in the first quarter of 2019.


Kia aims to sell 1 million EVs in 2026

                SEOUL: Kia Corp, South Korea's second-biggest carmaker, said today it is targeting to sell 1 million electric vehicles in 2026 as it seeks to morph into a "sustainable mobility solutions provider."

Kia plans to launch the all-electric EV9 flagship SUV in the domestic market during the first half of this year and gradually fill its EV lineup with 15 models by 2027, the company said at this year's CEO Investor Day, reported Yonhap.

The maker of K5 sedans and Sorento SUVs plans to add the EV9 GT-line and the performance EV9 GT models to the EV lineup later this year. The GT-line model adopts the design of the performance GT model to meet diverse customer demands.

The EV9 is Kia's second model equipped with Hyundai Motor Group's dedicated EV platform, called E-GMP, after the EV6 SUV launched in 2021.

Kia plans to apply its connectivity services to most new vehicles to be launched after 2025 to keep them constantly updated by upgrading the vehicles' digital features and services without taking them to dealerships.

The company also plans to complete a purpose-built vehicle (PBV) plant in the autoland Hwaseong factory by the end of 2024 and start producing midsized PBVs in July 2025.

PBVs can be used as robo taxis, unmanned cargo carriers, movable offices, or for other purposes.

In 2025, the company said it will launch a midsized PBV and gradually introduce a PBV-based robo taxi with autonomous driving technology and large PBVs later.

In the long term, Kia plans to invest 32 trillion won (RM106bil) in future mobility in the next five years and aims to sell 1.6 million EVs in 2030.

In 2030, the company has set a sales goal of 4.3 million vehicles, including 1.6 million battery-powered ones, to achieve an operating profit of 16 trillion won on sales of 160 trillion won.

The business targets are sharply higher than the goals of an operating profit of 9.3 trillion won on sales of 97.6 trillion won for this year.

In 2023, the company set a sales goal of 3.2 million units, including overseas sales of 2.6 million.

From January to March, its vehicle sales rose 12 per cent to 767,700 units from 685,738 in the same period last year. - Yonhap


Feb 9-15: Fuel prices unchanged

                KUALA LUMPUR: The retail prices of RON97 and RON95 petrol and diesel will remain unchanged for the period from Feb 9 to 15.

The Finance Ministry, in a statement today, said that RON97 petrol remains at RM3.35 per litre, RON95 (RM2.05) and diesel (RM2.15).

The weekly retail prices of the products were set based on the Automatic Pricing Mechanism (APM) formula.


Automakers struggle with the future in Los Angeles

                DETROIT: Car manufacturers’ attempts to square what US consumers want against the clean vehicles regulators and investors demand will be on display in Los Angeles this week at an auto show that has moved away from calling itself just an auto show.

Automakers on Monday will begin previewing new models for the media at an event called AutoMobility LA, reflecting an emphasis on digital technology and new ways to get around, such as self-driving cars. On Friday, the Los Angeles Auto Show will open to the public for 10 days, attracting visitors from one of the world’s most affluent and culturally influential metropolitan markets.

For now, self-driving cars are not ready for consumers, and sales of the battery-powered vehicles demanded by California regulators remain marginal and money-losing. Profits are generated by gasoline-fueled sport utility vehicles and trucks.

Automakers caught between the petroleum past and the digital future will send muddled messages.

Volkswagen AG will try to replace memories of the diesel emissions cheating scandal that tarnished its image with many California customers by promoting its US$40 billion wave of electric vehicles.

In the next breath, the German automaker will tout its gasoline-fuelled Audi A8 large luxury sedan, which can pilot itself under limited circumstances but is out of step with a market where buyers are switching to sport utility vehicles.

Rivals overshadowed by electric vehicle pioneer Tesla Inc are in a quandary, too. Despite a booming stock market, sales for luxury brands BMW, Daimler AG’s Mercedes-Benz and Toyota Motor Corp’s Lexus are down for the first 10 months of 2017.

BMW AG is expected to roll out new versions of its i8 plug-in hybrid sports car. But for those not interested in electrification, the company will use the show to promote a high-performance version of its 5 Series sedan.

Tata Motors unit Jaguar Land Rover will accompany its new gasoline-powered Range Rover SVAutobiography, billed as the “pinnacle” of a lineup that already has models priced above US$100,000, with its first plug-in hybrid Range Rovers.

At AutoMobility LA, auto and technology industry executives will debate how ride-sharing, self-driving vehicles and electric cars will shape the future. At the auto show itself, the stars will be gasoline-burning SUVs, such as the Subaru Ascent, a large, three-row SUV from a brand known for compact, all-wheel-drive cars.

Fiat Chrysler Automobiles NV will unveil a new Jeep Wrangler with styling that still harks back to the trusty vehicles that helped the United States win World War II.


Audi teases Prologue Avant Concept

                INGOLSTADT: Audi announced that its Prologue Avant Concept will debut at Geneva and will feature the same 3.0-litre TDI V6 found in the upcoming Q7 e-tron quattro with 750Nm of torque.

There's going to be 350bhp and under the hood coupled to an electric motor that relies on a lithium-ion battery pack with 14.1kWh of energy , providing up to 54km of emission-less propulsion.

The combined power figures have been rated at 450bhp and 750Nm of torque, while an eight-speed tiptronic manages power delivery (via a flat shift-by-wire selector lever) to its quattro all-wheel-drive system.

In terms of performance the concept will launch to 100kph in 5.1sec before reaching an electronically limited top speed of 250kph while wearing 22-inch wheels with 285/30 tyres.

Despite all that power, it has an average fuel economy of 1.6L/100km with CO2 emissions of 43g/km to minimise its carbon footprint.

The concept features two filler ports - one on each side, with the left reserved for electric charging and the right for diesel fuel.

While the concept uses an adaptive air suspension for comfort, stopping power comes from a set of 20-inch carbon fibre ceramic brake discs partially hidden by 22-inch wheels with 285/30 tyres.

Further improving stability, the concept uses lightweight five-arm wishbone constructions for the front and rear axles and sports a dynamic all-wheel-drive steering system that can also turn the rear wheels by up to five-degrees.

While at low to moderate speeds, the rear steering system will turn the rear wheels in the opposite direction of the front wheels but at higher speeds it steers in the same direction as the front.

Dimensionally, the concept stands 5,110mm-long, 1,970mm-wide and 1,400mm-tall on its 2,990mm wheelbase and gets Audi's latest high-resolution Matrix Laser technology for the headlights (LEDs for the rear).

The handle-less doors are equipped with an illuminated touch sensor that unlocks and unlatches via an electric motor.

Inside, the interior offers four individual seats, a modern dashboard design with three OLED touch displays with two more behind the front's headrests.

“With our show car for Geneva, we now translate the design language of the Audi prologue into a new, dynamic and stretched form. We are merging it with a concept of high variability”, said Audi board member Ulrich Hackenberg.


Peugeot and Fiat edge closer to becoming Stellantis

                PARIS: The shareholders of France's PSA and US-Italian rival Fiat Chrysler are expected to approve their merger today, creating the world's fourth-biggest automaker by volume, Stellantis.

The outcome of the vote by PSA and Fiat shareholders is seen as a foregone conclusion, coming two weeks after the European Commission gave conditional approval to the mega-merger announced in late 2019.

The 50/50 tie-up, which was delayed by the Covid-19 pandemic, is seen as crucial for the two groups to undertake the investment needed to transition to clean car technology.

"This merger is a matter of survival for both Fiat and PSA," Giuliano Noci, professor of strategy at Milan Business School said, citing the "enormous technological and strategic challenges" faced by both as well as the damage wrought by the pandemic.

The merger allows Fiat-Chrysler to strengthen its presence in Europe and the French group to regain a foothold in the US.

Ranking behind global rivals such as Volkswagen, Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi and Toyota, Stellantis will be the fourth-largest automaker by volume and the third-largest by revenue, with a workforce of over 400,000.

The new company will group producers such as Peugeot, Citroen, Fiat, Chrysler, Jeep, Alfa Romeo and Maserati, each of which will continue under their own brand names.
PSA and Fiat expect the merger to allow them to achieve billions of euros in synergies each year.

"Only the most agile, with a Darwinian spirit, will survive," PSA chief Carlos Tavares, who will take the helm of the merged group, said in November.

The European Commission had been worried the merger could affect competition in Europe's lucrative van market, with PSA and FCA together accounting for 34 percent of market share.

To assuage those concerns, the commission said PSA would continue an agreement with Toyota to manufacture vans to be sold under the Japanese brand in Europe.

The disruptions wrought by Covid-19, which ground manufacturing to a halt for several weeks in the first half of 2020, forced PSA and Fiat to change the terms of their tie-up to ensure it remained a merger of equals.

FCA agreed to lower the exceptional dividend to be distributed to its shareholders while PSA agreed to share out its 46 percent stake in French automotive equipment maker Faurecia among all shareholders of the new company, rather than its shareholders alone as agreed to previously.

The two companies have so far shown relative resilience in the face of the pandemic.
Fiat-Chrysler posted net profits of 1.2-billion-euros ($1.47 billion) in the third quarter, compared with losses of €1.04 billion euros (RM5.1bil) in the second quarter when much of the world was in lockdown.

PSA sold 589,000 fewer vehicles in the third quarter but sold them for more money as part of a strategy to maximise profitability and cash flow which boosted turnover by 1.2 percent.

At the time when the merger was announced Tavares assured no plant would be closed, but unions in France remain sceptical.

"On the whole, it's a good insurance policy for the future of our group. Those who don't make the shift risk being left by the wayside," a representative for the CFTC union at PSA, Franck Don, said.

But he wondered: "What synergies will they find and what consequences will that have for sites in France?"


Hyundai Ioniq gets 5-star Asean NCAP rating

                PETALING JAYA: The Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid has been declared as one of the safest cars in its class after being awarded an overall five-star safety rating by the New Car Assessment Programme for Southeast Asian Countries (Asean NCAP).

The Asean NCAP is a collaborative effort between the Malaysian Institute of Road Safety Research (MIROS) and Global NCAP.

The Ioniq was tested using a stringent 2017-2020 rating system and achieved an outstanding overall score of 91.98 points.

It fared well in three categories namely, Adult Occupant Protection (46.34 points over 50), Child Occupant Protection (21.48 points over 25) and Safety Assist Technologies (24.17 over 25) making it one of the safest cars in its segment.

READ MORE:
First drive of Hyundai Ioniq
Hybrid Vehicle of the Year Hyundai Ioniq HEV Plus
Your choice of hybrids and PHEVs in Malaysia
Hyundai Ioniq is the 2016 Good Design winner
Hyundai Ioniq HEV Plus - the electric bullet

“We are elated with the latest five-star Asean NCAP award to add to the list of Ioniq’s safety awards, including the 5-star Safety Rating by Euro NCAP in 2017 and the 2017 Top Safety Pick+ Award from Independent Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) in the US.

“With a starting price of RM94,788 (on-the-road without GST and insurance) the Ioniq is certainly value for money, coupled with its award-winning design and a host of convenient features,” said Sime Darby Motors - Malaysia, Thailand and Taiwan - managing director Dennis Ho.

According to Asean NCAP, the Ioniq scored impressively thanks to its advanced safety equipment, which includes effective braking and avoidance technologies such as the Electronic Stability Control (ESC),
Seatbelt Reminder System (SBR) including rear passengers, ISOFIX and top tether that is standard across all variants.

The Ioniq HEV Plus variant also offers more advanced safety technologies such as Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) for City, Inter-Urban and Vulnerable Road Users Technologies, Lane Departure Warning (LDW), Forward Collision Warning (FCW) and Lane Keep Assist (LKA).

The Ioniq was also CarSifu Editors’ Choice Awards 2017 Hybrid Vehicle of the Year,


CKD Mercedes GLC 200 launched, priced at RM289K

Raine posing with the GLC 200 in Kota Kinabalu today.
KOTA KINABALU: Mercedes-Benz Malaysia used Sabah as the setting to introduce the new GLC 200 sport utility vehicle (SUV) to Malaysia.

The SUV is priced at RM288,888 (on the road without insurance).

It has a 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission, an Off-road exterior package, 19-inch 5-spoke alloy wheels and LED High Performance headlamps. The interior colours range from black, espresso brown to silk beige in combination with the exclusive brown open-pore ash wood trim and the ARTICO man-made leather dashboard.

The GLC 200 is locally-assembled, like the GLC 250 4MATIC.

"As the no. 1 premium brand, we combine ultimate driving comfort, dynamic handling and great agility, as our SUVs define new benchmarks, break conventions and provide our customers with their ultimate choice of vehicle for their unique and active lifestyle," said Mark Raine, vice president, sales & marketing passenger cars, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia.

The GLC 200 has the OFF-ROAD Exterior design, which underscores the vehicle's SUV characteristics with rugged design features in chrome.

The radiator trim boasts an integral Mercedes star and two louvres in matt iridium silver with chrome inserts. Other select highlights include the 19-inch 5-spoke light alloy wheels, the chrome plated simulated underguard and the exhaust system with two visible, chrome-plated
tailpipe trims and the anodized roof rails.

In addition to the striking look, the LED High Performance headlamps provide more safety at night thanks to a broad light distribution, a light colour similar to daylight and low energy consumption.

The tail lights feature LED technology and create a visual highlight while improving visibility.

The GLC 200 is powered by a 2.0-litre 4 in-line engine, which produces 184hp and 300Nm of torque.

Its interior features Exclusive line, including upholstery in ARTICO man-made leather/fabric, ARTlCO-covered dashboard with contrasting topstitching in three colours, seats featuring an exclusive upholstery layout, wood trim in high-gloss brown line structure lime and the 3-spoke multifunction steering wheel.

With Mercedes-Benz Financial, you can finance the new GLC 200 at RM2,888 per month and for the GLC 250 4MATIC at RM3,258 per month. The monthly instalments are calculated based on 3 years tenure under Agility Financing, 20,000km mileage per annum with a downpayment of 20.34%.

Agility Financing is a secure financing option for customers as the future value of the car is guaranteed by Mercedes-Benz. Customers also enjoy lower monthly instalments compared to traditional financing and flexible end of agreement options with the decision to settle the financing, extend an agreement or simply return the vehicle to Mercedes-Benz at the end of the agreement.


BMW X3 xDrive30i with M Sport: 120 units only, priced at RM329K

                KUALA LUMPUR: The new BMW X3 xDrive30i with M Sport Package is priced at RM328,800 on-the-road, without insurance.

Limited to only 120 units in Malaysia, it is sold with:

- 5-Year Unlimited Mileage Warranty with Free Scheduled Service Programme
- 2-Year/ 24 Month Tyre Warranty Programme for its Run Flat Tyre offering and services
- Roadside Assistance and Accident Hotline
- BMW Group Loyalty+ Mobile App – BMW White Card
- BMW Service Online

Monthly instalments start from RM3,758 (based on estimates of an 80% loan on a five-year tenure) with Balloon Financing Plan from BMW Group Financial Services Malaysia.

Colour offerings for the locally-assembled premium mid-sized Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) include Alpine White, Carbon Black, Glacier Silver and Phytonic Blue.

The Vernasca leather upholstery is available in Black with Blue contrast stitching.

Exclusive M Sport Package features include the 20-inch M light alloy wheels in Double Spoke Style 699 M with mixed and run-flat tyres, the M Sport suspension, M Sport brake, M Aerodynamic body styling, M aerodynamic rear bumper with tailpipe finishers in gloss chrome, and M Sport leather steering wheel and door sill finishers with M designation.

M-specific pedals add to the sporty touch with Vernasca leather upholstery and contrast stitching.

Power comes from the four-cylinder TwinPower Turbo petrol engine capable of 252hp at 5,200 – 6,500rpm and a peak torque of 350Nm at 1,450 – 4,800 rpm mated to an 8-Speed Steptronic sport automatic.

The X3 xDrive30i with M Sport Package can do the century sprint in 6.3 seconds and has a top speed of 240kph.

Fuel consumption is rated at 7.6 litres for every 100km travelled.

Other highlights include a 10.25-inch touchscreen Navigation System Professional, the iDrive Touch and a HiFi system with 12 speakers, triple-zone automatic climate control air-conditioning, powered front seats with driver's memory function, keyless entry and a contactless powered tailgate, six airbags and two ISOFIX seat attachments.

Harald Hoelzl, managing director of BMW Group Malaysia said, “Since we started delivering the third generation BMW X3 last year, we have seen over 1,600 units on the road to date. Joining the BMW 330i M Sport introduced last week, the BMW X3 xDrive30i with M Sport Package will be assembled at our facility in Kulim, illustrating that our commitment to Malaysia will only continue to grow as we expand the line-up of locally assembled BMW vehicles here.”


Volvo Cars gears up for US$20bil IPO in coming weeks, sources say

                STOCKHOLM: China's Geely Holding is in advanced discussions with banks to list its Volvo Cars unit in the coming weeks, three sources told Reuters, in what is expected to be one of Europe's biggest initial public offerings (IPOs) this year.

Volvo Cars is aiming for a valuation of about US$20 billion (RM83bil) in the planned Stockholm listing, the sources said, with one saying the launch was pencilled in for the end of September.

Goldman Sachs and SEB are leading the transaction, while other banks including BNP Paribas, Carnegie and HSBC are also involved in the deal, the sources added.

Volvo Cars declined to comment. Geely did not immediately respond to an emailed request for comment outside normal business hours in China. SEB and Goldman Sachs declined to comment. The other banks were not immediately available.

Geely, which bought Volvo from Ford Motor more than a decade ago in the biggest acquisition by a Chinese firm of a foreign car maker, sought to float shares in the Swedish firm in 2018 but then pulled the deal citing trade tensions and a downturn in automotive stocks.

Traditional carmakers have fallen out of favour in recent years, as Tesla has risen to be one of the world's most valuable companies, putting the focus on electric vehicles.

Many European firms have pivoted towards the electric sector, including Volvo Cars which aims to only make fully electric cars by 2030 and owns a 49.5% stake in electric car maker Polestar.

Valuation

Gothenburg-based Volvo Cars aims to secure a valuation of roughly US$20 billion, one of the sources said, while another mentioned a possible range of US$20 billion to US$30 billion.

A third source suggested a US$16 billion valuation was more realistic, citing the firm's revenue outlook.

A US$20 billion valuation for Volvo would be equivalent to six to seven times its earnings, a level some analysts say is high although it would put it in line with rivals Daimler and BMW. Tesla's valuation is more than 70 times.

NordLB's automotive analyst Frank Schwope estimated a valuation range of US$10 billion to US$15 billion.

"The strong margins seen in the first half of 2021 are unlikely sustainable as the market benefited from a strong post-pandemic rebound that is unlikely to continue," Schwope said.

For Geely's founder Li Shufu, who bought Volvo for US$1.8 billion, the listing is a milestone on the road to transport of the future, where cars are part of an electrified network of mobility services generating data and business opportunities.

A slew of startups have tapped into the investor frenzy for electric vehicles this year. Rivian, which rolled its first electric pickup truck off the production line this week, will seek a valuation of about US$70 billion to US$80 billion when it goes public at the end of this year, sources have told Reuters.

Nordea chief investment officer John Hernander said the bank was interested in buying Volvo shares if a big enough chunk of the company was sold to keep liquidity high.

"That is key. We and many others have been really disappointed in the low liquidity in Traton," he said, drawing parallels to the 2019 IPO of the truck unit, in which owner Volkswagen floated 11.5% of the shares.

Volvo warned this month that sales volumes in the second half of 2021 could fall year on year after it had been forced to cut production due to material shortages.


First Cobalt pioneers cobalt production for electric cars in N. America

                LONDON: First Cobalt said on Monday it expects to start making cobalt sulphate around the turn of the year and become North America’s first producer of the component crucial for batteries used in electric vehicles.

The Canadian company’s plans for its cobalt refinery in Ontario, would be a step towards helping North America reduce reliance on China, which dominates the supply chain for rechargeable lithium-ion batteries.

Electric vehicle sales have collapsed this year due to the coronavirus outbreak, but sales are likely to accelerate over coming years as governments around the world clamp down on polluting fossil fuels such as diesel and gasoline.

First Cobalt commissioned a feasibility study, which showed the refinery producing an annualised 1,000 tonnes of cobalt or 5,000 tonnes of cobalt sulphate by late 2020 or early 2021.

 Battery-grade cobalt sulfate.

The second phase of the project would mean the refinery producing 5,000 tonnes of cobalt or 25,000 tonnes of cobalt sulphate by the fourth quarter of 2021, which would be a significant proportion of the global refined cobalt market.

“The strong outlook for electric vehicles, the push by automakers to develop shorter supply chains and the projected refinery economics create an excellent opportunity,” said First Cobalt’s chief executive Trent Mell.

“(The study) is an important milestone in our efforts to disrupt the existing concentrated cobalt supply chain.”

Benchmark Mineral Intelligence analyst Caspar Rawles said 5,000 tonnes of cobalt would be enough for 335,000 electric vehicles if the cathode part of the battery was made up of 6 parts nickel, 2 parts cobalt and 2 part manganese.

Rawles calculates that same amount would be sufficient for about 700,000 electric vehicles if the cathode comprised 8 parts nickel, 1 part cobalt and 1 part manganese, a chemistry expected to become more common for electric vehicle batteries.

The feedstock for the refinery would be cobalt hydroxide produced by mining giant Glencore in the Democratic Republic of Congo where most of the world’s cobalt comes from and where it is a byproduct of copper production.

 Mell showing a cobalt ore.

Before the coronavirus lockdowns in producing countries, global supplies of cobalt for this year were estimated at around 135,000 tonnes.

The study estimates costs of producing cobalt at First Cobalt’s refinery at US$2.72 (RM11.72) a lb, or nearly US$6,000 (RM25,860) a tonne. Cobalt metal prices on the London Metal Exchange currently stand at US$30,000 (RM129,300) a tonne. Cobalt sulphate and hydroxide are typically priced at a discount to the metal.

The project will need initial capital of US$56 million (RM241mil).

“Discussions are under way with Glencore on commercial arrangements, financing and allocation of project economics; third party and government funding opportunities also under review,” First Cobalt said.

Cobalt extends the life of lithium-ion batteries, which auto firms typically guarantee for eight to 10 years. It also minimises the risk of electrical fires.


Getting to know new Toyota Yaris on way to Janda Baik

                There's no better time to be a new car buyer than now what with the slew of affordable offerings from various carmakers.

Besides attractive prices, the cars now come with a long list of safety equipment and features that make it all the more value for money. And you also have the option to choose between sedans, hatchbacks and SUVs.

Japanese marque Toyota is well known among Malaysians and this is turning out to be an exciting year for the brand.

In January this year, the new Toyota Vios sedan was launched and now in April, you have the five-door or hatchback Yaris to choose from as both models belong in the same B-segment category. The exception being that the Yaris is shorter in length by 280mm.

The Yaris shares the same powertrain as the Vios with the 1.5-litre Dual VVT-i engine producing 107PS and 140Nm of torque mated to a continuously variable transmission (CVT) with seven-speed Sport Sequential Shiftmatic Mode.

The hatch is available in three variants - the 1.5J, 1.5E and 1.5G - with prices starting from RM70,888, RM76,888 and RM83,888 respectively. All prices are on-the-road without insurance.

Looks-wise, the Yaris is also similar to the Vios especially the front-fascia if you were looking at it head-on.

One can only tell the difference when looking at the side profile and rear to see the difference between the two.

And there are more similarities between the two such as the layout of the dashboard and the slew of safety features which comes standard such as seven airbags, anti-lock braking system, electronic brake distribution, brake assist, vehicle stability control, traction control and hill-start assist.

Having recently attended the new Vios drive to Johor in February, I didn't think there would be much difference with the Yaris as a day trip drive for members of the media was organised by UMW Toyota Motor from its headquarters in Shah Alam to Janda Baik, Pahang.

The Yaris has a colour scheme which the Vios doesn't, a lime green dubbed the Citrus Mica Metallic which is vibrant and playful.

Also, the cars used for the drive which was the top-specced 1.5G, came equipped with the optional aerokit trim which includes a front bumper spoiler, rear bumper spoiler, side skirts and roof spoiler which gives a young and sporty look to the Yaris.

UMW Toyota Motor is after all, targeting a younger audience with the Yaris and have appointed the trendy, young local artiste Janna Nick as the Yaris ambassador.

They are taking all the right steps in attracting the demographic they are after in my opinion.

However, if you are not part of the targeted age group, the Yaris is still an attractive option for the young-at-heart.

Driving the Yaris revealed just how comfortable a car it is in terms of very low noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) especially the absence of wind noise when you get up to highway speeds.

It is also very steady and planted coming down the twisty curves of Karak highway which allowed me to push the car more than I normally would.

Of course, if you're going too fast into a turn, the car does let you know that it's going to understeer very early on but as soon as you learn the limits of the car, there is quite a lot of fun to be had.

We also had the opportunity to try the car on windy old roads and for that, we turned on the Sport mode which changes the gear-mapping with higher revs.

Now this was useful during this stretch of the drive and the CVT is sporty as it shifts down when braking hard so you've got the engine slowing the car down as well as the brakes.

My only complaint about the Yaris was the lack of paddle shifters.

For a car that can provide this kind of excitement behind the wheel, paddle shifters would have been the cherry on top.

Other than that, the Yaris, even the basic specced 1.5J comes with loads of features especially when it comes to safety, has almost everything one would need for a daily driver and the sporty looks to go with it.

If the Yaris can give the Vios a run for its money, it can easily do the same to its class competitors.

READ MORE:
Toyota Yaris is back, priced from RM71K
Toyota Yaris in US market based on Mazda2
2006 review of last Toyota Yaris


Hyundai plans to invest US$16.5bil in S.Korea EV business

                SEOUL: Hyundai Motor Group said today it plans to invest a total of 21 trillion won (RM73bil or US$16.54bil) through 2030 for the expansion of its electric vehicle (EV) business in South Korea.

The South Korean auto group, which houses Hyundai Motor Co and Kia Corp, plans to annually build 1.44 million units of EVs in South Korea by 2030.

The 1.44 million units of EV production volume in South Korea would account for about 45% of a combined global EV production capacity of 3.23 million EV units in 2030, the auto group said in a statement.

Reuters reported last week that Hyundai plans to build a new EV plant in the US state of Georgia.

The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reported the South Korean company would invest US$7.5 billion in Georgia and hire 8,500 people as part of its plans to build a new factory.

Last year, Hyundai Motor Group said it plans to invest US$7.4 billion in the United States by 2025 to produce EVs, upgrade production facilities and further its investment in smart mobility solutions - technology to improve different modes of transportation in cities.


The tighter the better for motorcycle body armour, testers urge

                STUTTGART: Tightly strapped-on body armour is the best protection for motorcyclists. In the event of an accident, this kind of protection is far superior to a stylishly cut leather jacket, which can easily shift on contact with tarmac.

A survey by German biking magazine Motorrad points to armoured vests as an alternative to polypropylene back protectors.

These can be donned easily and have an integrated chest protector to provide all-round cover, but by contrast with the classic back protectors do not reach right from the neck to the seat.

Motorrad's tests revealed that the quality of modern back protectors is good all round, with all 14 models tested rated at least "satisfactory" in a price range upwards from US$100. The protective vests scored similarly, with prices in the same range.

Nevertheless, bikers should exercise care when buying, trying the gear out in their accustomed riding position.

The protection is effective only when it fits properly, and with tall riders, the protection may not cover the back entirely.


BMW to source battery cells produced using renewable energy

                FRANKFURT: BMW on Tuesday said its electric cars will use battery cells produced using renewable energy, a step which will compel the biggest suppliers to source more non-coal generated electricity.

“We now have a contractual agreement with our cell manufacturers that they will use only green power to produce our fifth generation battery cells,” BMW chief executive Oliver Zipse said on an interview published on the company’s website.

Last year, BMW ordered more than €10 billion (RM48bil) worth of battery cells from Chinese battery cell maker Contemporary Amperex Technology Co (CATL) and Samsung SDI.

CATL is building a battery cell production plant in Erfurt, Germany, and has said it aims to produce 60 gigawatt hours (GWh) worth of cells a year from 2026 onwards.

BMW is preparing to launch the electric iX3 this year, and the iNEXT and i4 next year.

As production volumes of electric BMW cars increase, the use of green power will save around 10 million tonnes of CO2 over the next decade, BMW said, adding that this is equivalent to the annual carbon dioxide emissions produced by a city of over a million people.


Govt plans to install more Awas cameras

                KUALA LUMPUR: The government plans to install more Automated Awareness Safety System (Awas) cameras in the long run.

Deputy Transport Minister Datuk Hasbi Habibollah said this was based on the findings of a study conducted by the Malaysian Institute of Road Safety Research (Miros) that the level of compliance by road users to speed limit and road signages at the camera locations had reached 99 per cent.

"This has succeeded in increasing the perception of being caught for violating traffic rules, and in turn, reduced the risk of road accidents at the locations,” he said during the question-and-answer session at the Dewan Rakyat here today.

He was responding to a question from Datuk Seri Aminuddin Harun (PH-Port Dickson) on the current status of AES cameras and whether there is any recent study on the effectiveness of the system.

Hasbi said 45 Awas cameras are currently operating, of which only one is undergoing repair and maintenance.

At the same time, he stressed that the enforcement of awas cameras was not intended to trap road users, and this was proven with the installation of three signboards informing motorists of the camera locations ahead.

He also said that the system aims at ensuring all road users abide by traffic rules, especially at black spots or accident-prone areas.

"The usage of these cameras has enabled enforcement activities to be carried out around the clock and reduce dependence on manpower (enforcement personnel),” he said.

Awas was formerly known as Automated Enforcement System (AES).

Meanwhile, Hasbi said the government also plans to create special motorcycle lanes along highways in the country.

"A study is being conducted to see the suitable location for these motorcycle lanes,” he said in response to a supplementary question from Zakri Hassan (PN-Kangar) on whether the government plans to create special motorcycle lanes along highways.


First Malaysian racing academy emerges

                PETALING JAYA: Today marks the birth of Malaysia's first Racecar Engineering Course following the official partnership announcement between TOC Automotive College and local professional race team Aylezo Competizione.

The new collaboration looks to help develop Malaysia's motorsport scene with TOC being the training provider while Aylezo imparts their professional insights and experience upon the students during practical sessions for the eight-week course.

“Malaysia's motorsport industry is still in its infancy as compared to other countries,” said TOC founder and CEO Adelaine Foo, and added that while there are many local racing talents, there were very little training providers.

With the academy located in Glenmarie, Shah Alam, the course looks to improve a person's driving technique as well as knowledge with the help of expert professional racecar drivers.

To be eligible for the course, students must be 21 years-old and above and possess a valid Malaysian driving licence to be accepted into the course

After which, they will be introduced to the basics of motorsports such as proper seating position, car control, technical knowledge, interpreting a car's handling characteristic and how to effectively communicate with engineers to name a few.

The classes will also help expose students to what racecar drivers and pit crews experience at a race circuit with sessions held at the academy's purpose-built Go-Kart track equipped with simulators.

“We're here to set a pathway to for all future potential racecar drivers by introducing this eight-week racecar engineering course, to improve their driving technique and gain professional racing instruction from experts,” said Foo.

For more information or for course registration, log on to www.toc.edu.my or call 03-7955 2855.


Daimler to develop next-generation engines with Geely

                BERLIN: German carmaker Daimler will cooperate with China’s Geely to build a next-generation combustion engine for use in hybrid vehicles, it said on Tuesday.

“The companies plan to develop a highly efficient modular engine,” a spokesman for Daimler said, adding that it would be used in hybrid drivetrains and manufactured in Europe and China.

German factories will be retooled gradually to build electric drivetrains while the manufacture of combustion engines will continue in Germany, Daimler said.

The alliance was first reported by German business daily Handelsblatt on Tuesday, citing company and industry sources.

Most of the engines will be made in China, Handelsblatt said. The alliance with Geely, which owns a 9.69% stake in Stuttgart-based Daimler, means that an existing partnership with Renault will expire.

Citing Daimler sources, Handelsblatt said the Daimler-Geely pact would save the German carmaker a “triple-digit million sum” - implying an amount above 100 million euros and less than 1 billion euros.


New Mercedes-Benz GLC Coupé gets extensive upgrades

                STUTTGART: The new 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLC Coupé will be offered in mild hybrid and plug-in hybrid (PHEV) models, and come with extensive upgrades of standard features, as well as the latest MBUX infotainment system with new functions.

Sports suspension is standard on the new GLC Coupé, which will arrive in western European markets in July 2023.

The optional 4.5-degree rear axle steering makes the vehicle even more manoeuvrable.

It is offered in the Technology package along with Airmatic air suspension, which provides continuously adjustable damping for the compression and rebound stages of the shock absorbers.

Off the road, the GLC Coupé scores with 4MATIC all-wheel drive and purely electric off-road driving in the PHEV models.

Engine options include four-cylinder petrol and diesel units, always combined with an electric motor.

The mild hybrid units include a 48-volt on-board electrical system and a second-generation integrated starter-generator (ISG) for an extra boost and energy recuperation.

The ISG supports the combustion engine especially at low engine speeds.

Complemented by the turbocharger, this delivers outstanding power.

The 48-volt on-board electrical system supports hybrid functions such as coasting, boosting and energy recovery, thus increasing efficiency.

Mercedes-Benz says the motors also start quickly and comfortably with the help of the ISG, with the start/stop function barely perceptible to the driver.

There are four 2.0-litre mild hybrid models, namely the petrol-engined GLC 200 and 300, and diesel-engined 220 d and 300 d.

The GLC 200 outputs 204hp and 320Nm of torque, while the GLC 300 produces 258hp and 400Nm of torque.

Meanwhile, the GLC 220 d outputs 197hp and 440Nm of torque, while the GLC 300 d produces 269hp and 550Nm of torque.

As for the three 2.0-litre PHEV models, they are the petrol-engined GLC 300 e and 400 e, and the diesel-engined GLC 300 de.

The PHEVs have an all-electric travel range of over 100km (WLTP test procedure).

Full electric power is available up to 140kph.

Starting from empty, a full recharge of the high-voltage 31.2 kWh battery with the optional 60 kW DC charger is completed in 30 minutes.

The GLC Coupé comes as standard with an 11kW three-phase AC charger.

As for the exterior, defined by the sporty coupé silhouette, features include the simulated chrome underguard, the roof rails painted in black and the optional running boards.

Another visual highlight is the radiator grille with the Mercedes-Benz pattern (standard).

It also features significantly improved aerodynamics than its predecessor, and is billed as a pleasantly quiet vehicle with a serene sound signature and low rolling and wind noise.

This is achieved with acoustic optimisation of the bodyshell and sophisticated sound insulation.

An acoustic membrane in the windscreen is standard equipment.

Meanwhile, with a length of 4,763 mm, the new GLC Coupé is 31mm longer and 5mm higher than its predecessor.

The track widths are larger, by 6mm at the front (now 1,627mm) and 23mm at the rear (now 1,640 mm).

The longer vehicle length benefits the wheelbase and the front and rear overhangs.

The width has remained the same at 1,890mm.

There is also more boot volume, at 545 litres (45 litres more than the preceding model) to 1,490 litres (a plus of 90 litres) in the mild hybrid models and 390 to 1,335 litres in the PHEVs.

The Easy-Pack tailgate is standard.

This opens or closes conveniently at the touch of a button using the ignition key, the switch in the driver’s door or the unlocking handle on the tailgate.

In the cabin, the dashboard is horizontally divided into two sections, generous trim surfaces, and a portrait-format central display that appears to float above them.

There is a 12.3-inch high-resolution LCD screen in front of the driver, while the 11.9-inch central display rises from the centre console and appears to float above the trim surface.

Like the dashboard, the screen surface is slightly angled towards the driver.

The interior of the new GLC Coupé features the Avantgarde line as standard.

This includes large displays, smartphone integration, wireless phone charging and heated seats for drivers and passengers.

With the latest MBUX infotainment system, the Hey Mercedes voice assistant is even more responsive, with optimised learning capabilities.

The MBUX Voice Assistant is now enhanced with a new Mercedes me service – the “Tourguide” acoustic travel guide.

Meanwhile, the optional Burmester surround sound system offers 15 premium speakers and a total output of 710 watts.


Goods vehicles free to move during Raya season

                PUTRAJAYA: Goods vehicles are allowed to travel on public roads during this Aidilfitri festive season, says the Transport Ministry.

“Due to a blanket ban on all interstate and inter-district travel nationwide from May 12 to June 7 to curb Covid-19 transmission, the ministry will not implement any road ban on goods vehicles during the upcoming Aidilfitri festive season," it said in a statement today.

The ministry had banned goods vehicles from travelling on public roads during the yearly Hari Raya Aidilfitri season previously in a measure to reduce traffic congestion and raise road safety in anticipation of high volumes of road users returning to their hometowns for celebrations.

The ministry also reminded road users to stay abreast with information from the National Security Council at www.mkn.gov.my/ or Telegram channel at t.me/MKNRasmi and comply with the standard operating procedures against Covid-19 wherever applicable.


Nissan says to expand US regional recall for Takata air bags

                TOKYO: Nissan said today it would expand an investigative recall in certain US regions to replace air bags made by Takata Corp, adding about 45,000 Sentras from the 2004-2006 model years that weren't included previously.

Japan's second-largest automaker has informed the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration about its plans to replace passenger-side air bags of the affected Sentras, a spokesman said.

Bloomberg reported earlier the expansion followed a March 21 accident in which a woman was injured from shrapnel in her 2006 Sentra in Louisiana, which is one of the states covered in Nissan's regional recall.

Since 2008, about a dozen automakers have recalled nearly 25 million vehicles equipped with potentially deadly Takata-made air bag inflators, which can explode with too much force and shoot metal shards into occupants.


Bangkok International Motor Show 2023: Whipping up the excitement

                BANGKOK: This year's 44th Bangkok International Motor Show (BIMS) was off to a great amount of excitement after having been relegated to a virtual show for the last three years.

With the re-opening of Thailand's borders to international visitors, the show (being held from March 22 to April 2) was filled with much enthusiasm.

More than 40 automotive brands have converged at Challenger Hall, Impact Muang Thong Thani located on the outskirts of Bangkok city.

Spread throughout 170,960 sq m, the 12-day show welcomed visitors to peruse, test-drive and purchase vehicles ranging from affordable to ultra-luxury makes and models.

Grand Prix International CEO and the organising chairman of the show Dr Prachin Eamlumnow said this year's BIMS was moving smoothly with its (Thailand's) automotive industry returning to normalcy.

 Eamlumnow.

"The parts shortage situation in the assembly line has been continuously improving with the Government anticipating an increase in the production of cars and motorcycles in Thailand," said Eamlumnow who recently turned 80 years old on March 8.

The organising company's chief operating officer and BIMS vice-chairman Jaturont Komolmis shared this year's growth target of 15% to 20% in terms of visitors and total vehicle bookings.

"We believe in our target because of various positive factors such as the relaxation of Covid-19 measures as well as the nation's improving economic trend and the emergence of EVs for both cars and motorcycles in the market," said Komolmis.

 Komolmis.

The COO added the show will provide an estimated 50mil Baht (RM6.4mil) worth of economic contribution to further the development of Thailand's economy and automotive sector.

The show features popular players in the industry displaying their latest models.

Hyundai Stargazer

From Hyundai, the South Korean carmaker introduced the Stargazer compact multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) which sports three seating rows of either six or seven seats in four variants for choice.

 Stargazer.

Powering the front wheels is a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated engine producing 115PS and 144Nm while being managed by an Intelligent Variable Transmission - the South Korean carmaker's version of a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT).

This MPV happens to feature automatic LED headlights with LED daytime running lights, keyless entry with push-start button and remote-start function, leather upholstery and an 8.0-inch touchscreen with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay among others.

 Stargazer.

For safety, it comes equipped with advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) including lane-keeping assist, blind-spot collision avoidance assist, rear cross-traffic collision avoidance assist, high-beam assist, safe-exit warning and driver-attention warning.

Hyundai Ioniq 6

Meanwhile, the brand also introduced the Ioniq 6 electric vehicle (EV) which features a 77.4kWh battery that's touted to provide up to 610km of range and can be recharged from 10% to 80% in 18mins via a 305kW DC charger.

 Ioniq 6.

Claiming to be one of the world's most energy-efficient EVs, the Ioniq 6 is capable of achieving 13.9kWh per 100km while having a rather slick drag coefficient of just 0.21.

With each axle equipped with an electric motor to create an all-wheel-drive system (AWD), power has been rated at 320PS and 605Nm of torque - enabling it to sprint from 0 to 100kph in 5.1 seconds.

 Ioniq 6.

In terms of equipment, the Ioniq 6 has been fitted with side-viewing cameras which replace conventional exterior rearview mirrors.

Furthermore, two 12-inch panels are also featured here with one serving as a digital instrument cluster while the other is touch-sensitive for the infotainment system that comes with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and Bluetooth connectivity for up to two smart devices.

GWM Tank 500 Hybrid SUV

Great Wall Motors (GWM) launched its take on what a luxury three-row seating sport utility vehicle (SUV) should be by introducing the Tank 500. Tank is a sub-brand of GWM.

 Tank 500.

At a tickle over 5.0m-long, this SUV possesses a hybrid powertrain which combines the efforts of a 2.0-litre turbocharged engine with an electric motor to produce a system's output of 350PS and 616Nm of torque.

Power is managed by a Hydraulic Automatic Transmission that gets sent to a selectable four-wheel-drive system while rolling on 20-inch wheels.

This SUV from China provides 11 driving modes, front and rear electric differential locks for some serious off-roading and an off-road cruise control system.

Uniquely enough, it also comes with a Body Transparent System which combines the view of the road ahead with what's underneath for added visibility.

For kit, the Tank 500 has been equipped with LEDs for the automatic front headlights, daytime running lights, fog lights and rear light clusters.

 Tank 500.

Also included in the equipment list are retractable side steps, paddle-shifters, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, a huge 14.6-inch touchscreen display with Android Auto, Apple CarPlay and a reverse camera system.

A 12-speaker sound system, Nappa leather upholstery and power adjustability have been thrown in for the steering wheel, rear window sunshades, third-row backrests and front passenger seats with driver-side memory function.

For added comfort, there are rear window sunshades while safety has been bolstered by autonomous braking function and adaptive cruise control.

GWM Ora Good Cat GT

Additionally, the show also saw a sportier version of GWM's Ora Good Cat in GT form which costs 1.29mil Baht (RM165,667) price tag.

Although unsure if the GT variant will make it to Malaysia, the standard Ora Good Cat - available in two variants starting with the 400 Pro and the 500 Ultra costs RM140,000 and RM170,000 respectively.

 Good Cat GT.

The GT variant seen here has been dressed up with a rear roof spoiler with "GT" logos on its sides before getting fitted with sportier 18-inch wheels that partially hide its red callipers.

Also included are carbon fibre bits for the front splitter of the redesigned front bumper, side skirts, wheel arches and rear diffuser with red accents. A red GT badge now resides prominently on its posterior.

 Good Cat GT.

Inside, the cabin gets accented in red which can be found on the seats that now carry the GT logo embroidered into the headrests.

Additionally, a new welcome lighting system is provided as well as a powered tailgate, automatic climate controls and ventilated front seats.

While based on the 500 Ultra in terms of battery capacity at 63.14kWh, performance has been up-tuned from the standard 143PS and 210Nm to 171PS and 250Nm and is touted to still provide up to 500km of range (NEDC).

BYD Dolphin

Adding to the list of China-made vehicles was BYD's introduction of its Dolphin compact EV in hatchback form which is estimated to cost some 800,000 Baht (RM102,700).

 Dolphin.

The single electric motor (174hp and 290Nm of torque) is powered by the company's in-house designed 44.9kWh Blade battery pack.

This allows the Dolphin to provide up to 410km of range and the ability to sprint from o to 100kph in 12.3 seconds.

 Dolphin.

The battery is able to accommodate up to a 60kW DC charger which will get the battery from a 30% state-of-charge to 80% in about 30mins.

The Dolphin is also Vehicle-To-Load (V2L) capable, meaning this EV will be able to provide electric power should the need arise.

Honda WR-V

Onto Honda and this Japanese carmaker presented the WR-V and sixth-generation CR-V which made their debut at this year's show.

 WR-V.

Their arrival is highly anticipated as part of Honda Malaysia's reportedly grand plan to introduce four new models before year-end.

The WR-V in Thailand was offered in SV and RS variants while being powered by the same 1.5-litre naturally-aspirated engine with 121PS/145Nm found in the City.

 WR-V.

The Thai version of the WR-V is seen equipped with LEDs for front and rear illumination along with colour-matched door handles, auto-folding mirrors and up to 17-inch wheels that sport 215/55 series tyres.

Also included are paddle shifters, a six-speaker sound system, red-contrast piping for the leather-like upholstery and steering wheel, and the LaneWatch side camera system, among others.

 WR-V.Honda CR-V 6th-Gen

As for the new CR-V, this Thai-assembled model was unveiled with five variants for choice with a front-wheel-drive option for the base 1.5 Turbo E going for 1.42mil Baht (RM182,280).

This is followed by the 1.5 Turbo ES 4WD at 1.6mil Baht (RM205,531) and the 1.5 Turbo EL 4WD seven-seater at 1.65mil Baht (RM211,955).

 CR-V.

While these are powered conventionally by a familiar 190hp / 242Nm 1.5-lite turbocharged engine mated to a CVT, the remaining two AWD variants carry the e:HEV hybrid moniker - namely the ES at 1.59mil Baht (RM204,247) and the range-topping RS at 1.73mil Baht (RM222,230).

The final two variants utilise a 2.0-litre Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder engine mated to an e-CVT that works in conjunction with two electric motors (one on each axle) to produce a total system output of 207PS and 371Nm.

 CR-V.

For kit, the new CR-V in Thailand can be had with LEDs for the adaptive front automatic headlights and rear light clusters along with LED sequential turn signals, automatic power-folding external mirrors with integrated turn-signals, retractable panoramic sunroof, walk-away auto lock system, a powered tailgate and up to 19-inch alloy wheels.

Also included is a 9.0-inch touchscreen display with navigation, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay as well as a 10.2-inch digital instrument cluster, wireless charger, heads-up-display, 12-speaker Bose sound system and paddle-shifters among others.

 WR-V.

Last but not least, Honda Sensing's suite of ADAS has been included as standard for all variants. - Jay Wong


Mercedes-Benz announces move to all-automatic gearboxes

                STUTTGART: Mercedes-Benz says it will stop producing vehicles with manual gearboxes in 2023.

The switch to automatic transmissions will take place on a model-specific basis as the company moves to new generations of vehicles, a spokesman for the Stuttgart-based company said on Wednesday.

"With increasing electrification, we see customer demand shifting towards electromobility components, batteries and electric drive systems," the spokesman said.

Accordingly, Mercedes-Benz would "gradually stop offering manual transmissions."

Currently, models in the A- and B-Class as well as the CLA are still available with manual transmissions.

The changeover would take place in 2023, but the company would not say exactly when.


Toyota to stop Japan production for one week due to steel shortage

                TOKYO: Toyota Motor Corp said today it would halt production at all car assembly plants in Japan from Feb 8 to Feb 13 due to a steel shortage following an explosion at a steel plant of one of its affiliates.

The world's biggest automaker said on Saturday a blast at an Aichi Steel Corp plant on Jan 8 had curbed production of steel used in auto parts including engines, transmissions and chassis. It gave no specifics on how car production would be affected.

"Operations are scheduled to recommence on Feb 15, and vehicle production on lines outside Japan will not be suspended," Toyota said in a statement.

Toyota said it was looking at options including asking Aichi Steel to produce parts on alternate lines and procuring specialised steel from other makers.

Late last week, it said it had enough inventory to keep the factories running until Feb. 6.

Toyota produced 4.0 million vehicles in Japan in 2015, roughly 46 percent of which was exported.

It produced around 13,600 vehicles a day in December, up 10 percent from a year earlier, due in part to the start of production of the latest Prius petrol hybrid.

The stoppage illustrates the risks of Toyota's "just-in-time" inventory system, under which the company receives parts several times a day according to requirements, avoiding the need for excessive inventories.

A plant fire at an affiliate supplier brought domestic production to a halt in 1997. Factories came back online around five days later after Toyota corralled suppliers in its close-knit "keiretsu" group and other firms to improvise systems to come up with replacement parts.


GM's Cruise unit recalls and revises self-driving software after crash

                WASHINGTON: General Motors' startup unit Cruise LLC said today it had recalled and updated software in 80 self-driving vehicles after a June crash in San Francisco that left two people injured.

Federal regulators said the recalled software could "incorrectly predict" an oncoming vehicle's path. Cruise said it had determined this unusual scenario would not recur after the software update.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has stepped up its scrutiny of advanced driver assistance systems and autonomous vehicle systems in recent months. Last year, it directed all automakers and tech companies to promptly report crashes involving self-driving vehicles.

NHTSA said the recalled Cruise software could "in certain circumstances when making an unprotected left, cause the (autonomous driving system) to incorrectly predict another vehicle’s path or be insufficiently reactive to the sudden path change of a road user."

Cruise disclosed Thursday that after the June 3 crash in San Francisco, it temporarily prevented its vehicles from making unprotected left turns and reduced the area in which its vehicles could operate.

After the software update on July 6, Cruise said it had gradually reintroduced unprotected left turns, which refers to turning left at an intersection with a solid green light that directs all traffic, rather than a designated green arrow just for turning vehicles.

Cruise emphasised in a statement today all vehicles had software updates and the recall "does not impact or change our current on-road operations."

The company added "Cruise AVs are even better equipped to prevent this singular, exceptional event."

NHTSA said "an improper (Automated Driving Systems) response can increase the risk of a crash."

The agency said last month it had opened a special investigation into the Cruise crash.

Cruise said NHTSA "suggested that the appropriate mechanism for disseminating this information" about the update was for Cruise to file a recall notice.

In rare circumstances, Cruise said the software caused the autonomous vehicle to hard brake while performing an unprotected left turn that it deemed necessary to avoid a severe front-end collision.

The self-driving vehicle "had to decide between two different risk scenarios and chose the one with the least potential for a serious collision at the time, before the oncoming vehicle’s sudden change of direction," Cruise said.

Cruise also noted a police report found the party most at fault for the June crash was the other vehicle, which was traveling at 40 miles per hour in a 25-mile zone.

In March, startup technology firm Pony.ai agreed to recall some versions of its autonomous driving system software, after an October crash in California, that had been used in three vehicles.

NHTSA said at the time it was the "first recall of an automated driving system."

In June, Cruise said it had started charging fares for driverless rides in San Francisco, after it became the first company to secure a permit to charge for self-driving car rides in the U.S. city, having overcome objections by local officials.

GM and Cruise in February disclosed they petitioned NHTSA for permission to deploy self-driving vehicles without steering wheels, mirrors, turn signals or windshield wipers. Last month, NHTSA said it would extend a public comment period on the request.


NY Auto Show cancelled on delta variant concerns

                NEW YORK: Organisers of the 2021 New York International Automobile Show have cancelled the event for the second year in a row, citing concerns over the spread of the Covid-19 delta variant.

“All signs were positive, and the show was coming together stronger than ever, but today is a different story,” Mark Schienberg, president of the New York Auto Show, said in a statement issued Wednesday.

The statement cited “increased measures announced recently by state and local officials” to protect the public from the coronavirus as part of the reason for the decision.

The Greater New York Automobile Dealers Association, which organises the show, made the decision following conversations with state and city authorities and after mayor Bill de Blasio’s proof of vaccination mandate for indoor activities, a spokesman said.

This marks the second-consecutive year the 121-year-old New York Auto Show was cancelled. It comes just weeks after governor Andrew Cuomo welcomed the show’s expected return, which officials said contributes US$300 million to the local and state economy.

The annual event was to be held in its traditional venue, the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center in New York City, kicking off with a press day on Aug 19. It was set to showcase almost 1,000 vehicles spread across 1 million square feet of exhibit space.

Last year, the Javits Center was being used as a field hospital. That forced organisers of the auto show to abandon a 2020 summer show and instead push it to April 2021. The show was then further postponed to August before the announcement of its cancellation.

The organisers expressed confidence the show will return to its regular spring schedule in April 2022.


Nissan and other car makers weigh restarting China production after Feb 10

                SHANGHAI: Nissan said today it is considering restarting production in China in its venture with Dongfeng Motor Group sometime after Feb 10, citing government guidance and its assessment of the coronavirus epidemic.

The Japanese car maker also said production in Hubei province, the epicentre of the epidemic, will start sometime after Feb 14.

The production plan is subject to change after reviewing the coronavirus situation in the days ahead, a company spokesman said.

Other carmakers with plants in Wuhan, including Renault, PSA Group and Honda have taken similar measures. Honda has not decided when its plants would resume operations.

The virus outbreak has killed over 420 people, spread around the world and raised fears about global economic growth.


December sales to mirror November's at 58,742 units, says MAA

                KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia recorded 58,742 units of new vehicle sales in November 2021, up 1.94% from 57,622 units in the same month last year, the Malaysian Automotive Association (MAA) said.

In its monthly update, MAA said the year-to-date sales volume for November 2021 was 4% lower to 441,136 units from 459,336 units in the same period a year ago.

MAA said sales of passenger vehicles in November 2021 rose to 52,601 units from 52,289 units in November 2020, while sales of commercial vehicles rose to 6,141 units from 5,333 units previously.

MAA said the total industry volume (TIV) for November 2021 was 7.5% lower than October 2021 which was at 63,489 units only.

“Shortage of chips and some parts had affected the production of certain make,” MAA said.

It added that consumers may have deferred the purchase of new vehicles since the sales tax exemption incentive has been extended till June 30, 2022.

In terms of total production, 58,079 vehicles were produced in November 2021 compared with 54,832 units in November 2020.

On the outlook, MAA said sales in December 2021 are expected to be maintained at November 2021 level as companies’ year-end promotional campaigns spur sales and companies ramp up deliveries of vehicles to fulfil backlog orders especially for those with the financial year ending December 2021.


2015 Tokyo Motor Show: World media gets first look at cars and concepts

TOKYO: The Tokyo Motor Show opened for media preview today with a focus on cars that drive themselves, eco-friendly technologies, and a concept vehicle with tablet-style touch screens aimed at a digital generation.

Nissan unveiled an autonomous electric vehicle, which it said would “revolutionise the relationship between car and driver, and future mobility.”

The motor show’s 44th edition, which runs until Nov 8, features 160 exhibitors including global auto giants and parts suppliers from a dozen countries.

READ ALSOCarSifu team in Japan
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It starts a week after Honda said it would put a commercialised self-driving car on the road by 2020, as automakers bet on vehicles that can drive and, in some case, park themselves.

Its bigger rival Toyota has plans to roll out an autonomous car by 2020, when Tokyo hosts the Olympics.

Nissan chief executive Carlos Ghosn said Nissan was on track to put the self-driving technology in multiple vehicles by 2020, and the company is aiming to put an experimental automated car on Japan’s highways as soon as next year.

“It compensates for human error, which causes more than 90 percent of all car accidents,” Ghosn said of the emerging technology.

“As a result, time spent behind wheel is safer, cleaner, more efficient and more fun,” he said in a briefing booth packed with reporters.

Google has been testing self-driving cars in Silicon Valley, as have US-based Tesla and General Motors. But the technology is far from perfect and is widely seen as being limited in the short term to highway driving rather than urban traffic jams.

Japan’s auto giants will also be showing off their latest concept cars including Toyota’s Kikai.

The eye-popping vehicle conjures images of the Terminator films with some of a usually hidden underbelly - including fuel tank and hoses - exposed, giving an inside look at the car’s machinery.

Nissan, a leader in electric vehicles, is showing a concept car with knobs and buttons replaced by tablet-style touch screens featuring controls and maps on a white instrument panel.

Music, videogames and movies can also be played on the screens, in a nod to the smartphone generation.

“The car becomes a digital space when it’s parked,” said Nissan’s product planning general manager Hidemi Sasaki.

Toyota and Honda are also exhibiting their latest fuel-cell offerings, seen as the holy grail of green cars because they emit nothing but water vapour from the tailpipe and can operate on renewable hydrogen gas.

 The Honda FCX Clarity fuel cell vehicle. Toyota, Honda and Nissan are among automakers displaying new fuel-cell and electric vehicles at this year's Tokyo Motor Show. - Bloomberg

Toyota last year started selling the world’s first mass market fuel-cell car in Japan, the four-door Mirai. The auto giant is hoping to sell tens of thousands of the eco-friendly vehicle over the next decade, as it looks to stop producing fossil-fuel based cars altogether by 2050.

Honda’s rival fuel-cell features a cruising range of more than 700km, and generates electricity that could help supply power to a local community in an emergency situation, it said.

 Lexus RC F GT-3 concept SPEC. - AFP Ladies from the Daihatsu stand.

Toyota’s FCV Plus similarly functions as a power source for homes and communities as the auto giant aims to turn fuel cell vehicles from “eco-cars into energy-cars”, it said.

The firm’s hybrid gasoline-electric offerings, including the Prius, have sold more than eight million units since their launch in 1997.

But a limited driving range and lack of refuelling stations have hampered development of fuel-cell and all-electric cars, which environmentalists say could play a vital role in cutting greenhouse gas emissions and slowing global warming.

BMW, Peugeot Citroen, Porsche, Jaguar and Volkswagen are among the overseas automakers attending.

 Nissan IDS Concept. Nissan Teatro for Dayz. - Bloomberg Yamaha Sports Ride Concept vehicle. - EPA Subaru Viziv Future Concept SUV.

 Daimler AG's chief designer Gordon Wagner introduces Mercedes-Benz's concept car Tokyo Vision. - EPA A model posing in front of the Peugeot 308 GTi by Peugeot Sport. - EPAVolkswagen passenger cars CEO Herbert Diess introducing the new Tiguan GTE plug-in hybrid crossover. - AFP Suzuki president Toshihiro Suzuki with the Mighty Deck. - AFP


Honda Malaysia opens booking for Civic e:HEV hybrid

                PETALING JAYA: Honda Malaysia has started order taking for the new Civic e:HEV RS variant equipped with a petrol/electric hybrid powertrain.

This variant is the first 2.0L e:HEV powertrain introduction for Civic and Honda Malaysia, and anticipated to be the ultimate variant in the C-segment.

The hybrid powertrain delivers a segment-leading maximum torque of 315Nm and 184PS of maximum power output.

The Civic hybrid uses an Electric Continuously Variable Transmission (e-CVT) and has an Intelligent Power Unit (IPU) powered by a light and compact lithium-ion battery.

In continuing the strong legacy and DNA of Civic, the Civic e:HEV RS continues the sporty RS styling but now features the elements of the e:HEV line-up variant with the unique Blue H Mark and stylish Chrome Front Grille.

Complementing the exterior are the new 18-inch dual tone alloy wheels.

Another first for this fuel-sipping new variant is the exclusive Key Card system for a compact and convenient keyless entry and start function.

Other notable features in this model are the nine-inch Advanced Display Audio with Wireless Apple CarPlay, and Remote Engine Start.

The full suite of Honda SENSING array of intelligent driving asisstance is standard in the Civic e:HEV RS.

The features are Lead Car Departure Notification System (LCDN), Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Low Speed Follow (LSF), Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS), Forward Collision Warning (FCW), Lane Keep Assist System (LKAS), Road Departure Mitigation (RDM), Lane Departure Warning (LDW) and Auto High Beam (AHB).

Honda Malaysia managing director and chief executive officer Hironobu Yoshimura said the 11th generation Civic which was launched early this year has been very well received by Malaysians, having sold more than 6,000 units from January to September 2022.

“To further strengthen Civic’s presence in the market, we are excited to introduce this new variant and for the first time being offered in a 2.0L e:HEV powertrain.

“In line with the Civic DNA, this e:HEV RS promises an exhilarating drive with elegant styling. We also believe that with the introduction of this exciting variant; it will further elevate the C-Segment and excite our customers,” he said.

Customers can log on to prebook.honda.com.my or download the HondaTouch application on their smartphones to place bookings.

They can also visit any Honda authorised dealerships nationwide or call Honda’s Toll-Free number at 1-800-88-2020 or log onto www.honda.com.my for more information on the Civic e:HEV RS.

READ MORE: Honda Civic e:HEV RS packs more zeal with hybrid power


Students create a 'sweet' ride

                BERLIN: You may have heard the expression "sweet ride" to describe a particularly attractive car, but few come sweeter than one recently developed by a Dutch university.

Called "Noah," the two-seated electric car developed by students at the Eindhoven University of Technology is made mostly from sugar-based bioplastic and flax fibre.

The student team behind the project, TU/ecomotive, have described Noah as the world's "most circular car" in that it is made almost entirely from recyclable or renewable materials.

The circular economy is a resource system that attempts to minimise the excess waste in a product's life span and increase its sustainability.

In addition to the organic materials that comprise its chassis and interior, Noah is said to be made from 90-per-cent renewable materials.

“It’s about awareness,” says team member Cas Verstappen, a student of Automotive Technology at TU/e. “We want to show that a circular economy is already possible in complex products such as cars.”

At the end of the car's useful life, the sugar and flax biocomposite can be broken down and used as a raw material for other products, such as building blocks.

While there are no plans to put Noah into general production, the car and the team behind its creation will tour several European cities this summer.


New VW Polo GTI debuts

                WOLFSBURG: The refreshed Polo was unveiled in April, signalling the fact the sportiest version will not be far behind.

Sure enough, the Polo GTI was announced earlier this week. Like before, it's front-wheel drive and comes with a powerful TSI engine and sports chassis.

Based on the Modular Transverse Toolkit (MQB) platform, the Polo GTI boasts high body rigidity, low weight, and good crash properties.

Powertrain

Among the highlights of the transversely mounted 2.0-litre turbo engine are the dual injection system with combined direct and intake-manifold fuel injection, an engine control unit with four core processors, and an electronic valve-lift system on the inlet side.

Despite the high output, the engine is touted as efficient with moderate fuel consumption levels. This is aided by the low weight of the new Polo GTI when empty.

It changes gear via a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission (DSG).

The Polo GTI comes with a sports chassis, tailored specially to the car, as standard. It lowers the chassis by 15mm so as to offer a balance of driving dynamics, safe neutrality and a high degree of driving comfort.

Exterior

The new Polo GTI is fitted with the new IQ.Light – LED matrix headlights and an illuminated radiator grille bar as a distinctive enhancement to the daytime running light.

This sees the sporty new Polo form a stylistic bridge to Volkswagen’s fully-electric ID. models and the new generation of successful models like the Golf, Arteon and Tiguan, which also come with this striking LED light strip, which is typical of new Volkswagens, as an option or depending on the equipment line.

The most striking visual change to the rear of the Polo GTI is the newly-designed LED rear lights with animated brake light and integrated dynamic indicators, which indicate a change in direction with flowing light movements.

The new, GTI-specific bumper gives the compact sports car an even more commanding and broader visual presence on the roads.

The Adaptive Front Lighting System (AFS), which is integrated in the side of the bumper and controlled via the main headlights, has been redesigned and now gives an even more concise lighting effect.

In combination with the IQ.Light – LED matrix headlights, it provides a uniform illumination of the road and surroundings.

The striking red GTI logo on the radiator grille, the honeycomb-shaped ventilation grilles, and the continuous red trim strip above the LED daytime running light strip remain the characteristic GTI insignia at the sharper front of the car.

To the right and left, it flows into the IQ.Light – LED matrix headlights with red winglets.

Interior

Black, red, grey and chrome are the dominant colours in the cabin.

The roof pillars and roof liner are always in the Titanium Black trim colour, which is typical of the GTI.

Red contrast stitching is also always a typical characteristic of a GTI. It adorns the multifunctional, leather sports steering wheel, which comes as standard, the gear lever trim and the seat surfaces. There's an optional beats sound system, with 300 watts and six speakers. The amplifier is located under the floor in the variable cargo area to save space. Luggage capacity of the new Polo GTI is 351 litres.

IQ.DRIVE Travel Assist, used for the first time in a Polo GTI, enables semi-automated driving. The system can take over the steering, braking and accelerating of the new Polo GTI from standstill to the control limit of Travel Assist (210kph).

For longitudinal guidance, IQ.DRIVE Travel Assist calls upon familiar systems like Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC). Latitudinal guidance is supported by Lane Assist, which comes as standard.

The driver can activate the system via the Travel Assist button in the redesigned, multifunctional, leather sports steering wheel. The driver’s hands must remain on the steering wheel whilst using this system, meaning the driver is always responsible for the car.

Connectivity

Ensuring state-of-the-art connectivity is the latest MIB3.1 infotainment system.

An Online Connectivity Unit (OCU) with integrated eSIM makes it possible to use online services from We Connect (prepared for a limited time) and We Connect Plus (prepared for free use in Europe for one or three years). Features like natural voice control, access to streaming services and a cloud-based personalisation using “Volkswagen ID” enhance the latest MIB3.1 system, depending on the equipment line.

The integration of such apps as App-Connect Wireless for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is now wireless.

As in the Polo, instruments and the infotainment system are arranged on a visual axis, ensuring they can be viewed and operated easily in any driving situation. The Digital Cockpit Pro impresses with a higher pixel density, an improved contrast ratio and intense colours, as well as it sheer size at 10.25 inches.

The new Polo GTI is available in five colours: Deep Black Pearl Effect, Smoke Grey Metallic, Kings Red Metallic, Pure White Uni, and Reef Blue Metallic. The latter three chassis colours can be combined with a contrasting black roof as an option (Roof Pack). The car comes with 17-inch alloy wheels as standard. The Polo GTI can also be ordered with optional 18-inch alloys.


Tesla confirms China plant, refuses to reveal details

                SAN FRANCISCO: Electric car maker Tesla Inc reaffirmed on Sunday it is talking with the Shanghai municipal government to set up a factory in the region and expects to agree on a plan by the end of the year, but declined to comment on a report that a deal has been reached.

China levies a 25% duty on sales of imported vehicles and has not allowed foreign automakers to establish wholly owned factories in the country, the world’s largest auto market. Those are problems for Tesla, which wants to expand its presence in China’s growing electric vehicle market without compromising its independence or intellectual property.

China’s government has considered allowing foreign automakers to set up wholly owned factories in free trade zones in part to encourage more production of electric and hybrid vehicles - which the government calls “new energy vehicles” - to meet ambitious sales quotas.

Tesla would still have to pay a 25% duty on cars built in a free trade zone, but it could lower its production costs.

Tesla on Sunday pointed to a statement it made in June that the company “is working with the Shanghai Municipal Government to explore the possibility of establishing a manufacturing facility in the region to serve the Chinese market. As we’ve said before, we expect to more clearly define our plans for production in China by the end of the year.”

A Tesla spokesman in the United States declined to comment further beyond referring to the June statement.

The Wall Street Journal reported that Tesla and the Shanghai government have reached a deal in that city’s free trade zone. Shanghai is China’s de facto automotive capital and a significant market for luxury vehicles of all kinds.

Chinese Internet company Tencent Holdings Ltd has a 5% stake in Tesla and is seen as a potential ally for Tesla’s efforts to enter the Chinese market.

It was unclear if the Chinese government will conclude a deal with Tesla to coincide with US president Donald Trump’s visit next month.

Tesla chief executive Elon Musk has said the company eventually will need vehicle and battery manufacturing centres in Europe and Asia.

Tesla is wrestling with production problems at its sole factory, in Fremont, California. It is trying to accelerate output of its new Model 3 sedan, but conceded earlier this month that production bottlenecks had held third-quarter production to just 260 vehicles, well short of the 1,500 previously planned.


McLaren announces Ultimate Series supercar at Pebble Beach

                WOKING: An all-new Ultimate Series McLaren supercar, focused on the exhilaration of pure, open-top driving, will be announced by CEO, Mike Flewitt during a customer briefing at the Pebble Beach Concours.

The as yet unnamed model is a two- seat, open cockpit roadster that will be the latest offering in McLaren’s range-topping Ultimate series lineage of supercars that includes the P1, Senna and Speedtail.

Strictly limited to just 399 examples, the roadster will differ from both the McLaren Senna’s focus on being the ultimate road-legal track car and the Speedtail’s high-speed aerodynamic efficiency by offering the purest distillation of road-focused driving pleasure and an unrivalled sense of driver connection with the surrounding environment.

Classical roadster proportions, elegant sweeping lines and low-profile dihedral doors all reflect the car’s singular purpose as a thrilling road car dedicated to the love of driving.

While designed more for the road than the track, the new model will utilize McLaren’s trademark carbon fibre construction making it the lightest car ever produced by McLaren Automotive and will be powered by a version of the twin-turbocharged V8 engine currently employed in the McLaren Senna to ensure breath-taking performance.

“At McLaren Automotive we are consistently pushing the boundaries to deliver the purest and most engaging driving experience whether for the road or track. Our two current ultimate series cars, the Senna and Speedtail, offer unique and distinct driving experiences. Now this new addition to the Ultimate Series, an open-cockpit roadster, will take road-focused driving pleasure to new levels,” said Flewitt.


Renault workers use 3D printers to make medical visors

                PARIS: Renault workers in Spain have begun using 3D printers to manufacture visors for health workers from home, the French carmaker said on Tuesday, in a scheme that could be expanded to make other medical equipment elsewhere.

The move, which echoes experiments under way at other carmakers to find ways to boost production of medical equipment up to and including ventilators, is still small-scale, while shortages in Spain and elsewhere are acute.

Employees sent home because of factory closures have made around 50 mask supports, which are then completed by inserting acetate sheets that shield the face, the company said.

An engineer at the firm said it might be even able to use 3D printers in France to make parts for ventilators, vital for treating severely ill coronavirus patients.

Another French car manufacturer, PSA, said it was working with Air Liquide to look for ways to help the industrial gas maker increase its ventilator production. [nL8N2BH633]