World's best-selling car Corolla gets facelift in Toyota's China gamble

                GUANGZHOU: For Toyota Motor Corp., China wasn’t always the first pit stop when it came to unveiling key car models. But this time, it’s different.

The Japanese automaker took the wraps off the all-new Corolla - and its China-only twin Levin - at a global premier in Guangzhou today, hours before it’s put on display in California. The move marks Toyota’s deeper push into the world’s biggest auto market where it is trailing rivals.

The Corolla, the staid workhorse that seldom makes heads turn but still loved universally, is getting a facelift at a time sedans are losing their sheen in the US while gaining followers in China. Built on Toyota’s new global architecture platform, the models unveiled offer more connectivity and intelligent features to lure Chinese buyers.

China overtook the US to become the largest market for the compact sedan last year, with the combined annual deliveries of Corolla and Levin reaching half a million and taking the lead in the segment. Amid a sharp demand shift to SUVs in the US, Toyota is increasingly counting on China to sustain the success story of the world’s best-selling model of any carmaker over the last thirty years.

Contributing about 40 percent of Toyota’s China sales, the models are key to changing the automaker’s also-run status. Toyota sold 1.29 million vehicles in China last year and is targeting 1.4 million this year, compared with sales of more than 4 million units each at Volkswagen AG and General Motors Co. Japanese competitors Nissan Motor Co. and Honda Motor Co., though smaller globally, have also been quicker than Toyota in ramping up sales in China.

“Toyota believes it has potential to raise its market share given it is low compared with the US,” said Janet Lewis, an analyst at Macquarie Capital Securities in Tokyo. “The Corolla is a less important product for the US market than for China in light of declining sedan volumes. Products tend to be tailored for the biggest markets — “in this case it is the Corolla and Levin for China.”

Key to reversing that laggard status is the ever-reliable Corolla, a car so reputed for its quality that many owners prefer another Toyota for their next purchase.

Toyota has traditionally been concentrating on the US, even after China overtook it to become the world’s largest car market in 2009. Now though, the famously cautious Japanese manufacturing giant has added incentive to shift focus as China moves to loosen restrictions while the US threatens to raise trade barriers.

Trade war

As of now Toyota has been largely unscathed, or even has actually benefited from the US-China trade war. While China in July increased the levy on vehicles imported from the US to 40 percent, it almost simultaneously lowered the duty on other imported cars to 15 percent. That has in particular benefited Toyota’s luxury Lexus vehicles exported from Japan to China.

That, coupled with continued strong demand for the outgoing Corolla and the new Camry, helped Toyota boost China sales by 13 percent in the first nine months this year, bucking an industry slowdown and leading the gains by major carmakers. This also has boosted confidence for Toyota to set its eye on tripling car production in China by as soon as 2030.

To be sure, Toyota’s future growth hinges on how the company embraces new-energy vehicles. Under China’s so-called cap-and-trade policy, automakers must obtain a new-energy vehicle score — which is linked to the production of various types of zero- and low-emission vehicles — starting January.

Toyota, which has been a laggard in pure-electric cars, had to speed up in NEVs. Unlike VW or GM, the conventional hybrids with which Toyota is the indisputable leader will be central to the company’s electrification efforts. Toyota intentionally put two gasoline-electric versions of the Corolla and Levin on display in Guangzhou, as sales of hybrid models have started to take off since it localized production in 2015.

However, conventional hybrids are unlikely to be included as NEVs in China and it remains to be seen how far they can go without much government support that EVs and plug-ins receive.

To find allies promoting the technology, Toyota has engaged in advanced talks to license its hybrid system to Chinese carmaker Geely Automobile Holdings Ltd., Bloomberg has reported.

“Hybrids are very important to Toyota’s China and global strategy, but it only works in China if other companies produce them,” Lewis said.


Nikola starts making electric trucks, shares jump

                NEW YORK: Nikola Corp shares rose about 15% today, as Wall Street cheered the company starting production of its electric truck on schedule.

The electric-vehicle maker said at its analyst day on Wednesday it had started making Tre battery electric vehicle (BEV) at its Coolidge, Arizona facility on March 21 and would deliver 300 to 500 semi-trucks this year.

The Phoenix, Arizona-based company expects to start production of the Tre BEV truck at its factory in Germany in June 2023.

Several electric vehicle makers including legacy automakers such as Ford Motor Co and General Motors that have entered the segment aim to deliver their first EVs this year as demand heats up, but higher raw material prices and supply chain woes have clouded their timelines.

The Nikola story has increased credibility now as trucks start to roll off the line, said Jeffrey Kauffman, analyst at Vertical Research Partners, adding the company could surprise with new customer orders.

Nikola expects positive gross margins for its Tre BEV by 2023, which could grow to about 20% after 2025, while in 2022 it expects a negative gross margin of 60% to 75%.

"We got the sense that NKLA has learned a few lessons from other EV companies looking to ramp-up production ... Nikola is in touch with suppliers on a daily basis and is continuously discussing and locking-in pricing as volumes rise," DA Davidson analyst Michael Shlisky said.

Traders have a short position on about 27.5% of Nikola's free float, according to estimates from data analytics firm Ortex.

Nikola shares were trading at US$10.52. As of Wednesday, the stock had lost at least 35% of its value since the company's founder was charged with defrauding investors in July last year.


Hyundai to consider joining Tesla's North American charging standard alliance

                SEOUL: Hyundai Motor will consider making its vehicles more readily compatible with the charging standard Tesla (TSLA.O) is pushing for in North America, the South Korean automaker's CEO said today.

Tesla's Superchargers make up about 60% of available US fast chargers and Ford and General Motors have in recent weeks struck deals with Tesla to use its charging technology, now dubbed the North American Charging Standard (NACS).

Jaehoon Chang, who is also Hyundai's president, said the company would consider joining the alliance of automakers shifting to Tesla's standard, but that it would have to determine that was in the interest of its customers.

One issue, he said, is that Tesla's current network of Superchargers does not allow for the faster charging Hyundai's electric vehicles can achieve on other chargers.

"That's what we will look into from the customer's perspective," Chang told analysts at the automaker's investor day.

Hyundai's new electric cars, including the Ioniq 5, use an 800-volt electrical architecture to allow for faster charging, while Tesla's Superchargers operate at a lower voltage.

Chang said Hyundai would consult with Tesla to see whether it could make adjustments to its charging system for Hyundai customers so they could charge faster.

Tesla opening its charging network to electric vehicles from other brands is a condition for the company to qualify for some of the US$7.5 billion in subsidies the Biden administration has provided to speed the deployment of chargers in the US.

The US carmaker also stands to profit from selling power to a bigger group of electric vehicle drivers.


Lamborghini dishes up a roadster

                SAN FRANCISCO: Like Aston Martin, Lamborghini strutted into Pebble Beach with a limited edition car - the Centenario Roadster that is the counterpart to the coupé version.

As with the coupe, the open-top variant is restricted to 20 units worldwide. It is the latest creation to mark the centenary of its founder, Ferruccio Lamborghini.

The roadster embodies a new design direction for Lamborghini accentuated by clean surfaces and reflections. Centenario’s silhouette features low overhangs in the front and rear creating a clean, sensuous, mono-body shape.

The one-off open-top car is built on a carbon fibre monocoque and the body parts are made of carbon fibre.

Designers developed a special silver exterior colour, called “Argento Centenario”, fashioned just for the Centenario Roadster, accentuating its curvaceous profile. To achieve this signature matte finish, designers applied a new process dissolving the metal while diluting and diminishing the appearance of the metal grain giving it a silky exterior finish.

The car’s enhanced aerodynamic design includes an extending rear wing providing more downforce at high speeds and is equipped with rear-wheel steering for increased agility and stability. A new fully connected infotainment and innovative touchscreen system includes internet browsing and Apple CarPlay for easy use.

Advanced aerodynamic studies were conducted also to achieve maximum comfort for the interior. Thefront windscreen is shaped to reduce turbulence for the cabin passengers, deflecting the air around and above their heads, keeping the level of ventilation within the cockpit to an optimal level for a sunlit environment. Frameless windows surround the interior, providing a light and airy effect while improving insulation.

Equipped with the most powerful engine produced by Lamborghini to date, the Centenario Roadster’s elegant exterior is matched with the the naturally aspirated V12 engine. Top speed is 350kph.

The Centenario Roadster is designed by the Centro Stile Lamborghini. Each component is said to improve performance in terms of drag, downforce and engine cooling.

The rear-wheel drive car uses 20”/21” front/rear rims in forged and milled aluminium, wrapped with Pirelli PZero tyres.

The engine delivers 770hp and allows the car to go from 0-100kph in 2.9 seconds. Braking distance from 100-0kph takes place in 31m.

The Roadster comes with Lamborghini’s magneto rheological suspension and Lamborghini Dynamic Steering (LDS) providing optimal responsiveness and driver feedback. For a lightweight solution and faster gear shifting, it features an Independent Shifting Rod (ISR) gearbox.

Clients can specify their Centenario Roadster to include any colour and finish.

The Centenario Roadster on display features interiors in light brown Alcantara Terra di California with Bianco Polar leather inlets, stitching and piping as well as cross-stitching on the seats, dashboard and rocker cover.

Functionality and connectivity include satellite navigation and a 10.1 inch touchscreen. The infotainment system allows for users to browse the Internet, connect to e-mail and social media and use other online applications such as web radio. Apple CarPlay is also included with full functionality for calls, navigation, music and iPhone integration. The infotainment system also includes a sophisticated telemetry function so drivers can record and compare speeds, times, lateral and G force data. Two optional interior cameras allow the drivers’ experiences to be recorded.

The 20 units will be delivered through 2017. The Coupe has a lower starting price of 1.75 million euros while it’s 2 million euros for the Roadster.


Touch ‘n Go eWallet promises 30s response time

                PETALING JAYA: Touch ‘n Go eWallet says that users can expect to have their calls answered within 30 seconds when they contact its dedicated hotline, which is based at the National Scam Response Centre (NSRC).

“In terms of our service level and answer rate for this particular fraud hotline, it’s very fast. On average, we’ll be able to pick up your calls within 30 seconds,” TNG Digital chief operating officer Mohd Herman Sarbini said in a press conference today.

The company said users can contact Touch ‘n Go’s hotline at 03-5022 3888 and select “4” for fraud to get in touch with its fraud operations team. To illustrate some success stories, the company claimed it was able to help some callers prevent their funds from being transferred to an unknown account on four occasions.

Mohd Herman added that the dedicated hotline will operate at the same hours as the NSRC 997 hotline, which is from 8am to 8pm daily.

TNG Digital chief executive officer Alan Ni advised customers to be aware that if their fraud-related issues involve multiple institutions such as other banks, it’s best to call the NSRC hotline.

“Otherwise if the fraud is TNG-specific, then they can call our careline,” he said.

As of March, Ni said the Touch ‘n Go eWallet has 19 million customers where the company is processing an average five to six million transactions per day.

Due to the high volume of transactions, Ni said the company has more reasons to “take security very seriously”.

Apart from the dedicated hotline at NSRC, Ni said Touch ‘n Go eWallet has also implemented four other security measures including face verification for when users perform activities such as logging into the app, changing their eWallet PIN, making payments and reloads on the app.

The company will also be tightening its fraud detection rules to block or limit certain transactions when it detects suspicious behaviour. Users will also receive an alert via email if any transaction has gone over the set limit.

The company has also introduced TapSecure as a mandatory one-tap approval function to authenticate transactions. This will restrict transactions to one approved device per account holder.

Another security measure is the implementation of a verification and ‘cooling-off period’ for when customers login to their account from a new device with a less secure authentication method, where they will be limited to a certain amount of top-ups or payments for up to 48 hours.

Ni assured customers that this cooling-off period won’t prevent customers from performing transactions such as toll payments or parking which it deemed as “low risk”.

The company added that it is also working on a ‘kill switch’ feature as announced by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim in the Budget 2023 speech where he said all banks are required to implement.


How car colours are going 'green' with help of new tech

                LAS VEGAS/BERLIN: BMW has come up with a concept car that can change colour by remote control and VW recently chose the garish Las Vegas boulevard for the world premiere of its ID.7 electric which wore a QR code-style coat of many colours.

It seems manufacturers are finally shaking up the world of car colours after decades of boring blues, greys, tans, taupes, whites, off-whites, charcoals and blacks.

After all, paint is one of the most important design aspects of a car — the right paint job can mean the difference between luxury or a dowdy SUV. It also can turn an old banger into a dream machine for teens.

Sustainability is a new watchword in the world of car paint and it seems carmakers have adapted Henry Ford's legendary “you can have any colour as long as it’s black” to mean green instead and now offer a huge range of eco-friendly hues.

Car coatings have always been driven by technology and the new variable ones showcased by BMW and Volkswagen are the result of chemical advances.

Most VWs come these days in discreet shades of grey but the Wolfsburg company opted for a riotous splash of colour, applying more than 40 different layers of paint to the ID prototype, some of which were made to glow electrically. That turned the car into a chameleon among the electrics.

"The palette on our roads is definitely becoming more colourful again," says Mark Gutjahr, who is charge of design at supplier BASF Coatings in Münster.

"With the increasing electrification of the car, more and more models are vying for attention and numerous new manufacturers are also coming into play. This is reflected in the colour spectrum," said Gutjahr. He said colour consultants are recommending makers to offer hues at the bolder end of the spectrum.

Looked at one way, there is actually only one trend colour at the moment, at least in the figurative sense, and that is green, whether as a pastel or traditional shade, muted or screamingly colourful.

"In the quest for the smallest possible carbon footprint and ultimately climate-neutral production, the focus is increasingly on 'green' coatings," said Marco Benen from Sustainability Management at BASF.

The trend poses a challenge to industry which can hardly avoid using chemicals made from fossil-fuels. Only a few ingredients can be replaced by renewable raw materials, said Benen.

Coatings can be made more eco-friendly by shortening supply chains, making energy processes more efficient and by cutting the use of CO2 during manufacture.

Almost more important than the components of the paint, however, is how it is processed, the expert says. The different layers have to be literally baked onto into the sheet metal in the paint shop of the car factory and that uses a lot of energy.

"If one layer can be spared or the process temperature is lowered by a few degrees, significant amounts of CO2 can be saved over the year," said Benen.

Another contribution to sustainability are paint layers that can repair damage themselves. Small scratches vanish like magic under the rays of the sun, meaning not every damaged body part has to be repainted, said BASF expert Matthijs Groenewolt, who researches into clear coatings.

That saves the customer money and the prevents further CO2 discharge into the environment.

Michaela Liese from the Color Center Europe pointed out that certain colours are good too for cars with driver or robot assistance on board.

Robot cars vehicles rely on lidar, radar and cameras and highly-reflective surfaces are more easily detected by these systems which allow the autonomous vehicles to determine the distance from a laser emitter to an object or surface using a pulsed beam.

Research focuses on special paints that enhance these signals. Whites are much better than black and grey coatings which absorb a greater amount, reducing the reflected signal strength by 50% compared to white cars.

"And ideally, of course, a paint fulfils both properties, because every transmitter vehicle can also be a receiver and vice versa," said the expert.

VW was not alone in playing with colours at the Las Vegas CES tech fair at the start of the year. For the second year now, BMW came with a show car that uses e-ink technology familiar from e-books.

Last year they could only alternate between black and white but this time the experience is also available in technicolour - and in almost three dozen different shades and even more patterns.

"The response was so overwhelming that we wanted to continue down this path," said project manager Stella Clarke. "Just as you choose your clothes in the morning according to your mood, you can also change the colour of your car according to your mood and make the car an expression of your personality."

Sustainability is naturally an issue here too, said BMW's development head Frank Weber: "The advantage of e-ink technology is that the colour change is virtually free of charge in terms of energy: We only need electricity to switch, then the new colour stays by itself. Whether lemon yellow, aubergine or strawberry red."


Porsche Macan tested

                When the Porsche Macan first broke cover in Malaysia in May, it still wasn’t the “real deal”, having been presented to us in European specifications — left-hand drive and all.

It was only in October that we got a realistic whiff of what the Macan has to offer, thanks to Sime Darby Auto Performance (SDAP), the official importers of Porsche vehicles in the country.

Our route led north to Ipoh with some highways, trunk roads thrown into the mix to allow us the opportunity to sample all three of the available four Macan variants.

Unfortunately, the range-topping Macan Turbo (from RM785,000) was unavailable for the drive.

That’s right, we were treated to the entry-level 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder Macan (from RM420,000), 3.0-litre turbocharged V6 Macan S Diesel (from RM545,000) and finally the 3.0-litre twin-turbo V6 Macan S (from RM560,000).

The Macan variants are practically identical in looks with nothing visually distinctive to separate them, except for the nomenclature stuck onto its rear electric boot lid.

By the way, locating the external tailgate release button at the rear took a rather long while, but nonetheless we managed to find — hidden just under the rear window wiper’s stalk of all places.

The Macan is a Porsche through and through that’s readily identifiable with its front end “genetically” inherited from the 911, but what we love most is the clamshell bonnet that’s much like a MINI Countryman or Fiat Coupe’s, which provides for a clean, broad and ultimately powerful appearance.

We would have to say that while the front end of the Macan retains much of the 911’s DNA, its rear-end, however, is arguably reminiscent of a wide and rounded 1978 Porsche 928’s.

To the casual on-lookers, the Macan’s side profile screams that of a Volkswagen Tiguan or an Audi Q5’s, but it gets distinctive Porsche body panels and a lowered stance.

In fact, the Macan shares the same wheelbase as the Q5 at 2,807mm.

In terms of size, the Macan is larger than the Q5, measuring 4,681mm in length, 1,923mm in width and 1,624mm in height.

Compared to the larger Porsche Cayenne, it’s only shorter by 99mm (102mm for the Cayenne Turbo), 5mm less in width and stunted by 76mm — all of which gives the Macan a lower centre of gravity — typical of a sports car that’s both wide and low.

The Macan is fitted with a seven-speed Porsche Doppelkupplung (PDK) transmission with paddle shifters.

In addition, there’s also an active all-wheel drive system and coupled with the Porsche Traction Management (PTM) programme.

There’s even the Porsche Torque Vectoring Plus (PTV Plus) system, which helps distribute the varying levels of drive torque between the front and rear wheels, while working in conjunction with an electronically controlled rear-axle differential lock.

Just for the drive, optional equipment such as the auto stop-start function, air suspension, Sport Chrono package, Porsche Communication Management (PCM) system and the all-enticing Sport Plus option were included.

With the technicalities aside, entering the dark cabin will have most wide-eyed in how everything is neatly and concisely placed on the centre console.

Being in black as well, the buttons are visually unintrusive and sometimes you could even forget that they’re there except for some chrome accents.

As soon as the button(s) are located, we found them to not be as tactile as we’d have thought, requiring a tad more pressure than anticipated.

Not to mention, we found working the signal and wiper stalks to be a little overly tense. The leather-clad cabin speaks more luxury than sporty, even though the front seats can be electrically adjusted eight different ways for those spirited drives.

In any case, with the seats configured and with dark skies looming, threatening to rain on our early morning parade, we made a quick getaway by beginning the drive in a black S Diesel with the air suspension set for comfort — the softest it’ll get.

In this setting, the electric steering’s weight lightens up (prod the throttle deep and it’ll become heftier), but there’s still a considerable amount of road-feel coming back to the driver while the suspension manages the uneven undulations for a rather comfortable drive.

The S Diesel is a winner when cruising, or when in city traffic, coming off as nimble and light even though it’s kerb weight is 1,880kg.

While the cabin is comfortable, road noise from the wheels when on the highway can be intrusive, but this is all due to the optionally fitted 21-inch 911 Turbo Design wheels (with full-coloured Porsche crest) equipped with 265/40 (front) and 295/35 (rear) tyres.

In standard form, the S-Diesel, S and Macan rolls on 18-inch Macan S wheels with 235/60 (front) and 255/55 (rear) tyres.

Thankfully, it has a massive amount of torque, specifically 580Nm of it from 1,750 to 2,500rpm as well as 255bhp from 4,000 to 4,250rpm (the latter sounding more of a bonus).

Unfortunately, as with most diesel engines, the jaw-dropping acceleration from standstill is short-lived, with much of its torque quickly tapering off as the engine races to its 5,200rpm redline.

With the Macan S, it has a 3.0-litre V6 twin-turbo engine utilising an aluminium block and headers — capable of producing 335bhp from 5,500 to 6,500rpm (6,700rpm redline) and 460Nm of torque from 1,450 to 5,000rpm.

That just simply means a devilish smile is going to appear rather quickly.

As indicated, power of the Macan S can be found over a broad rev-range and that means there’s plenty fun to had no matter where the rev-counter’s needle is pointed and should be a winner for ownership.

Enter the 2.0-litre turbocharged Macan and its power output readings seem a little sedate compared to the rest, having only 234bhp from 5,000 to 6,800rpm and 350Nm of torque from 1,500 to 4,500rpm.

Although many would scoff at the Macan’s lack of power, it compensates nicely in terms of driving dynamics - imagine playing a guitar versus a bag-pipe - it’s less cumbersome and a lot more lighter.

In short, it’s simply a point and shoot vehicle and we’d dare bet that many would stand before it with some new-found respect in that they were actually driving a compact SUV and not a sportscar.

For those of us who underestimated or even sneered at the Macan’s lacking performance figures, it was frankly a humbling experience.

The Macan’s power is accessible throughout the 2.0-litre’s rev-range coming off as something fun without worrying too much if things may get out of hand, because it simply delivers on both throttle and brake inputs.

Regardless of variant, getting off the highway and onto the twists of trunk roads, some would find Sport mode to be sufficient.

However, with Sport Plus available we decided to see what it had to offer.

This means that the engine, transmission, suspension and even engine note now comes together to play a more aggressive tune, while both coasting mode and the auto start-stop function are disabled.

It’s a step up on the aggression ladder — so to speak, from Sport mode, but by how much?

For one, air suspension gets slightly harder (not to mention lower by about 10mm from its normal setting) for a “flat” cornering experience, but it doesn’t stop there.

In fact, both throttle response and the PDK’s shifts feel more abrupt and direct as the engine revs all the way till redline and downshifts are accompanied by a race-like blip to the throttle.

With reference to all three variants, they’re an obedient bunch that’s made to serve the whims and fancies of its driver.

Getting the Macan to perform is a no-questions-asked deal and it won’t even bother if it was a request or a demand, it’ll just ‘do’.

Out of the trio being sampled, we found the entry-level Macan to be the most enjoyable of the lot, even though it loses two cylinders, has one less turbocharger compared to the Macan S and is 101bhp down on power.

While we initially thought the S Diesel was nimble on its feet, the entry-level Macan trumps it in driving pleasure.

What we had initially thought would be the least attractive of the trio to own, the experience has placed it at the top of the list, being 95 to 100kg less in heft compared to the S and S Diesel, respectively.

In whichever driving mode, the engine is quick to respond when downshifting the PDK, blipping the throttle for a smooth transition right down to first gear, so as not to unsettle the car when braking hard into corners.

Once the revs climb beyond the 4,000rpm mark, there won’t be any more downshifting allowed.

Although the range-topping Macan Turbo was absent for the drive North, we can only begin to imagine the sort of trouble we could get ourselves into with the ferocity of its 3.6-litre twin-turbo V6 engine producing 395bhp at 6,000rpm and 550Nm of torque from 1,350 to 4,500rpm.

We’d recommend the Turbo to those who have a hunger for power, but for those who may be new to the brand the entry-level Macan would satisfy.

The trio of Macans did well to characteristically distinguish themselves with the S Diesel being the marathon runner, the S as the all-rounder and the entry-level Macan as the instigator of play — all of which sit under the rule of the all-powerful Macan Turbo, till a more powerful variant arrives of course.


VW to launch production of electric utility vehicle in Poland

                WOLFSBURG: Volkswagen will make its new e-Crafter electric utility vehicles at a factory in neighbouring Poland, a spokesman for the group said Thursday.

"At this stage of the project, the design of the vehicle will be finalised in Hanover (Germany). In the next stage, production will be transferred to a new factory in Wrzesnia," western Poland, VW spokesman Dagmara Prystacka said, quoted by the Polish PAP news agency. She declined to provide further details.

Volkswagen has said it would deliver the first new electric vehicles to clients later this year.

Like its existing fossil fuel models, VW says its new electric-powered utility vehicle will be able to travel more than 200km and can carry a load of 1.7 tonnes.

Volkswagen began construction on its new plant in Wrzesnia in 2014, an investment estimated to be worth around 800 millions euros (RM3.8bil).

Net profit at VW reached 5.1 billion euros (RM24bil) in 2016, as the German automaker became the biggest brand in car sales in volume terms, overtaking Japan's Toyota.

The recovery came after a stinging 1.6-billion-euro (RM7.6bil) loss in 2015 triggered by the Dieselgate scandal which forced VW to admit it had installed so-called "cheat" software in 11 million diesel-engine cars worldwide.

VW now says it aims to become the world leader in electric cars by 2025.


Tesla to end free supercharging for life as Model 3 launch looms

A Tesla Model S charges at a Tesla Supercharger station in Cabazon, California. - Reuters
SAN FRANCISCO: Tesla Motors Inc is pulling the plug on lifetime free use of its Supercharger network for vehicles ordered after Jan 1, as the electric-car maker prepares to start selling its mass-market Model 3.

Vehicles ordered after that date will come with credits for about 1,600km annually of free Supercharger use, Tesla said in blog post Monday. Beyond that, users will pay an unspecified “small fee” that the company said will be less than the price of filling up a comparable gasoline car. Details will be released later this year, Tesla said.

The Supercharger network, designed to allow long road trips without “range anxiety,” has been a perk of owning a Tesla. But chief executive officer Elon Musk said at the annual shareholder meeting in May that free Supercharging “fundamentally has a cost” and that “the obvious thing is to decouple that from the cost of the Model 3.”

Tesla plans to start delivering the Model 3 late next year and reach total production of 500,000 of all its vehicles in 2018.

“We’re announcing a change to the economics of Supercharging â“one that allows us to re-invest in the network, accelerate its growth and bring all owners, current and future, the best Supercharging experience,” Tesla said in today’s blog post.

Vehicles ordered by Jan 1 have to be delivered by April 1 to avoid the change.

The company has 734 Supercharger stations in North America, Europe and Asia; the Superchargers typically deliver 274km of range in 30 minutes, according to the company’s website.


Now you can order a Chiron from Bugatti's Mayfair showroom in London

 The Chiron engine.

LONDON: Bugatti has opened a showroom in tony Mayfair here earlier this week, and this is the only place in Britain to view and order the new Chiron.

The British distributor is H.R. Owen Bugatti and the showroom is next to another H.R. Owen dealership selling Bentleys.

The new showroom features the latest Bugatti branding, with the legendary Bugatti blue playing a prominent part in the modern and clean styling around the room. H.R. Owen Bugatti is furnished with items from the recently launched Bugatti Home Collection. The specially designed armchairs are made using the finest leather and blue carbon fibre, the same high-spec materials that feature in Bugatti’s cars.

As well as the present and future, the showroom will also reflect Bugatti’s history and heritage, with a selection of art installations and sculptures that celebrate the brand beyond the cars. H.R. Owen Bugatti is more than just a car showroom, and is designed to convey a shared passion for the Bugatti brand and everything it stands for.

About 65 Veyrons are owned by customers in Britain and about 15 orders for the Chiron have been received in the country so far.


GM recycles water bottles to make Chevy Equinox engine cover

DETROIT: General Motors is turning its employees’ recycled water bottles into a new life: noise-reducing fabric insulation that covers the Chevrolet Equinox engine. The bottles – collected from five of its Michigan facilities – are also being turned into air filtration components and insulation in coats for the homeless community.

Given its drive to zero waste, all of GM’s global facilities recycle their water bottles. However, the bottles collected at the five locations are now funnelled into its “Do Your Part” project, where 11 businesses collaborate to give them a second life.

The air filtration components are used in GM facilities to protect air quality; and the insulation goes into Empowerment Plan coats that transform into sleeping bags.

GM uses recycled content in many of its vehicles. Cardboard from various GM plants is recycled into a sound-dampening material in the Buick Verano headliner; plastic caps and shipping aids from its Fort Wayne facility are mixed with other materials to make radiator shrouds for the Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra; and test tyres from Milford Proving Ground are shredded and used in the manufacturing of air and water baffles for a variety of GM cars.

GM has 131 landfill-free facilities around the world and recycles the equivalent of 38 million garbage bags of byproducts each year.

“Recycling is good, but viewing waste as a valuable resource that can be plugged into your operations or products is even better,” said John Bradburn, GM global manager of waste reduction. “It’s about rethinking the process and finding more sustainable ways to manufacture products and contribute to our communities.”

Each partner engaged in this initiative brings specific capabilities. Hamtramck Recycling bails the plastic bottles collected from GM’s world headquarters at the Renaissance Center, Warren Technical Center, and Orion Assembly, Flint Tool and Die, and Flint Engine plants. Clean Tech Inc. washes the bottles and converts them to flake. Unifi, Inc. recycles the bottle flake into resin. Palmetto Synthetics processes the resin to create fibers and William T. Burnett & Co. processes the fibers into various forms of fleece, serving all three applications.

Rogers Foam Corp. die cuts the fleece and EXO-s attaches it into the nylon cover for the Chevrolet Equinox V6 engine. The part helps further dampen engine noise to deliver a quiet ride.

Filtration Services Group works with New Life Center, a nonprofit jobs development and training mission in Flint, to make the panels for the air filtration fleece, which is then sent to 10 GM facilities.

The coat insulation is sent to Carhartt, a workwear company established in Detroit in 1889, who cuts it to size for The Empowerment Plan.

GM also is working with various organisations such as Schupan Recycling in Flint to collect additional water bottles to plug into the project.


Lexus celebrates decade of F models with RC F and GS F special editions

 Lexus RC F special edition.

DALLAS: It's now a decade since Lexus launched its F performance brand in some considerable style with the V-8-powered IS F, and to mark the occasion the luxury arm of Toyota is bringing us a couple of special edition models that are also powered by fabulous V-8s.

Although there will be no performance upgrades to speak of, the RC F and GS F special editions are going to be extremely visually striking thanks to a number of rather unique styling enhancements.

The pair of them will only come in one color, but that shouldn't be an issue as it's an appealing matte-finish paint called Nebula Grey.

 The GS F special edition (also below).

Apart from the LFA, the RC F and GS F special editions will be the only models in the Lexus lineup to feature any type of matte-finish paint. To complement the stunning paint job, the cars will also feature gloss black wheels and bright blue brake calipers to match the signature colours of the F brand.

But the exterior is only the start of the styling enhancements of these two special edition V-8s. Everywhere you look there will be blue highlights, and both cars get bright blue leather upholstery with grey accents, blue gear sticks, and window switch panels adorned with silver, blue and carbon-fiber finishes.

Even more blue carbon trim has been used on the centre console, and there's also some very blue suede dash trim and even blue seatbelt straps. There's even more blue leather trim on the steering wheel, but those going for the GS F won't get the same embossed headliner as found in the RC F.

Of course, the production runs of these very special cars will be limited. In fact, just 240 units of the RC F will be built, and that unusual number has been chosen because that's how many Lexus dealers there are in the United States. But if getting one of those is going to be tough, it's going to be even harder to get a GS F because Lexus is only building 100 of them.

Both cars will be on display at the upcoming Chicago Auto Show (Feb 10-19), and they'll be available to buy from the summer, although pricing has yet to be announced.

 The RC F.


Porsche Cayman GT4 Clubsport MR trims its weight

                ATLANTA: Porsche will present a variant of its recently launched US$165,000 (RM670,000) Cayman GT4 Clubsport that Manthey-Racing (MR) has taken and had its way with - meet the lighter and more expensive GT4 Clubsport MR.

Porsche hasn't mentioned how much the lightened version will cost and is waiting for the unveiling to happen first at the upcoming Total 24 Hours of Spa.

MR has fitted the Clubsport with its in-house developed parts, which allows it to qualify as a Stéphane Ratel Organisation (SRO)-homologated GT4 race car and can be used to participate in both national and international races within the GT4 category.

To recap, the base Cayman GT4 Clubsport isn't street-legal and uses a 3.8-litre dry-sump flat-six engine that sends 385hp and 420Nm of torque to a rear locking differential via a six-speed double-clutch Porsche Doppelkupplung (PDK) transmission rather than a standard six-speed manual.

With the MR designation slapped on, lightweight parts have been fitted such as the doors and hood made of carbon fibre, a polycarbonate windscreen and an optional lightweight battery to help knock off a total of about 40kg from its 1,300kg race-ready weight.Furthermore, it's also been fitted with a rear wing that's larger than the basic vehicle and is combined with extended wing brackets and retains use of the 911 GT3's front struts, as well as the standard GT4's rear suspension and axle.

Also, it rolls on 18-inch wheels with racing slicks from Michelin, which partially hides the six-piston (front) and four-piston (rear) callipers that bite down on 15-inch vented steel discs all-round.

Lastly, the car sits on a two-way adjustable race suspension kit with linear bearings and an adjustable sway bar with blade adjustment

In the North American market, the Porsche GT4 Clubsport MR and Porsche Cayman GT4 Clubsport upgrade kit will be distributed exclusively by Porsche Motorsport North America.

The car will be eligible for Pirelli World Challenge GTS class competition and in IMSA’s Continental Tire Sports Car Challenge GS class.


Nissan crossovers have Mariah Carey, robots and a bear to thank for

LONDON: Singer Mariah Carey might not know it, but she plays a crucial role in the development of every Nissan Crossover. So do a brown bear and a selection of cups and bottles from around the world.

For the first time, crossover market-leader Nissan is revealing the extreme measures it uses to test its new cars - including the X-Trail, Juke and the record-breaking Qashqai.

The rigorous engineering approach aims to replicate the real-life and sometimes arduous usage that the vehicles experience in every-day situations. Nissan said this would ensure that customers can be confident of first-class build quality and durability.

Since the first crossover was conceived in 2007, Nissan has conducted more than 150,000 tests across the Crossover range. These include:

> Using special robots to open and close the windows at least 30,000 times per model, while using specific volcanic dust imported from Japan to test against scratching and ensure durable functioning of the electric window mechanism
>  Activating the windscreen wipers for 480 hours at different speeds and settings, as well as in simulated varied weather conditions
>  Deploying the indicators right and left 2.25 million times on every model
>  Playing the stereo at high volume for a total of 1,200 days (that's 1,728,000 minutes) using specifically selected music tracks to encompass the widest range of pitch and beat. These include Mariah Carey for the high notes and the thumping bass of German House music
>   Dropping weights to ensuring the glass roof can withstand the weight of a brown bear climbing on the car
>    Using a host of different cups, bottles and containers to check the usefulness of the cupholders and door pockets

Engineers even decided to redesign the front door pocket of the Qashqai when it emerged that the new bottle of a popular brand of Japanese Green Tea would not fit without being slightly squeezed. The design was modified at a cost of more than €50,000.

The same engineers and their robot helpers have also opened the bonnets of its crossovers collectively more than 48,000 times and the doors an astounding 1.2 million times. This may seem extreme, but it has to exceed the anticipated usage of these parts by customers during the cars' lifetime.

Nissan crossovers have also set new standards in interior design. Over 20 driver seat variations have been evaluated and tested for comfort over 300 times, with the interior finishes further tested against tricky every-day stains such as chocolate and oil, lipstick, hair gel and coffee.

David Moss, Senior Vice-President at Nissan Europe Technical Centre said, "Some of the devices we have created and instruments we use might make us look like mad inventors. But they are all there to make sure that Nissan's range of crossovers are thoroughly tested to meet the needs of our customers - and will continue to do so for years to come."


Nissan reveals prototype sedan for contemporary lifestyles

                TOKYO: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. announced today a prototype sedan equipped with 30 innovative devices.

The Contemporary Lifestyle Vehicle, created through a bricolage approach, is to be on display at the Nissan Global Headquarters Gallery here from March 24 to April 2 and also viewable on Nissan's YouTube channel starting today.

The prototype is based on the iconic Skyline and packed with devices that can help users comfortably eat, sleep, and play in the car.

To create this usability without compromising the vehicle's functionality and stylish design, Nissan introduced devices through a process of trial and error, fusing them with AI to achieve surprising functions not imaginable from the outside appearance.

In this way the vehicle enables daily experience that suits modern lifestyles.

"Innovation to enrich people's lives is our corporate purpose. But, innovation is not limited to unprecedented advanced technologies such as electrification and intelligence," said Nissan's Mobility & AI Laboratory expert leader Tetsuro Ueda.

"Innovation is also about finding new possibilities in what already exists and finding ways to make experience more pleasant. Bricolage is well-suited for this kind of innovation.

"Above all, it was a lot of fun for us to prototype. This Contemporary Lifestyle Vehicle is a modern interpretation of the idea of eating, sleeping and playing in a sedan. We believe that innovation from bricolage is also effective in addressing sustainability issues. The Contemporary Lifestyle Vehicle is just the first step in demonstrating the impact of bricolage on manufacturing. We will continue to explore innovations and deliver excitement."


Volvo Cars reveals sporty S90 & V90 R-Design models

                GOTHEBURG: Volvo Cars has revealed performance-inspired R-Design models of the new S90 sedan and V90 estate.

Central to the S90 and V90 R-Design is an advanced sport chassis that delivers an energetic, road-hugging drive.

Sporting a new front-end design with spoiler-integrated fog lights, the R-Design models come with a unique grille and piano black trim on both front and rear. A new 5-spoke matt black diamond-cut wheel adds to the performance feel.

A wide range of styling cues are included on the inside – from unique deco trim, pedals and mats, to the sporty contour seats and special steering wheel, including a high level interior illumination package that radiates attention to detail.

“R-Design delivers an edge to our elegant estate and sedan models in our 90 Series, with a winning combination of a sportier, more responsive drive with clearly visible performance styling,” said Björn Annwall, Senior Vice President Marketing Sales and Customer Service at Volvo Cars.

Order books are now open for the S90 and V90 R-Design models.

 Volvo V90 R-Design Studio


New Hyundai Azera design teased

                SEOUL: Hyundai today showed the first rendering of the new Azera.

The design is a big departure from its predecessor’s. Subtle detailing is incorporated into the body that exhibits taut lines and balanced proportions.

The signature "cascading grille", first seen in the i30 hatch, will also be slapped onto the front of the car and will be one of many upscale styling features. It bears more than a passing resemblance to the Genesis G80 luxury sedan.

Hyundai did not say what engines will go with the car but it will probably sport four-cylinder and V6 petrol mills mated to an 8-speed automatic.

As is the trend towards less polluting motoring, Hyundai might even over a hybrid version.

The new Azera, sold as the Grandeur at home, will go on sale domestically within the next month.


Police seize open-top Perodua Kancil shown on TikTok

                KUALA LUMPUR: Police have seized two Perodua Kancil cars, including an open-top yellow Kancil which was seen cruising on the road, as seen on social media.

Kuala Lumpur Traffic Investigation and Enforcement Department chief ACP Zulkefly Yahya said police impounded the yellow car while it was being driven by a 47-year-old man at 1am at Bandar Metropolitan, Kepong, near here.

"Inspections found that the yellow car had no road tax, no roof and its front right tyre is damaged, ” he said in a statement on Sunday.

Investigations found that the owner of the car is from Raub, Pahang, who is believed to be homeless and does not hold a driving licence.

The man led police to another green Kancil car with a broken side window and devoid of a registration number plate.

Police seized both cars under Section 64 of the Road Transportation Act (APJ) 1987, as they were not fit to be on the road and may pose a danger to other road users.

"A compound was also issued to the driver for driving without a licence, ” he said.


Make it a Night to remember with the latest Mercedes

                STUTTGART: Mercedes-Benz will be launching a new exclusive "Night Edition" S-Class coupé in April and the order books will open on Jan 9.

The standard S-Class Coupé is already the company's hard-top flagship model, so the new variant had better raise the bar in terms of features as well as exclusivity. However, from the outside at least the car won't standout.

That's because it's finished in a very special matte-effect selenite grey magno paint that has light bending pigments mixed into it. However, with this matte background in place, the special edition gloss black wheels stand out. As does the equally glossy radiator grille, mirror housings and side sill inserts.

Other external touches that ensure it differs from a standard S-Class Coupé include the front and rear aerodynamic aprons that are usually the preserve of the decidedly sporty AMG-specification models. The idea is that this car is a stealth sports car.

Inside, the cockpit is much closer to that found in an AMG Mercedes, too. The upholstery options are all from the AMG brochure - nappa leather or AMG nappa leather for the seats and steering wheel, while the dashboard and door panels are finished in high-gloss black poplar wood.

As for combinations of colours and tones, the choice is intentionally slim - seats can be wrapped in contrasting black and crystal grey, or black and saddle brown or black and Bengal red (to ensure they match the exterior).

Owners will however get a choice of powerplants. The car can be specified with a 3-litre V6 with permanent all-wheel drive (367hp, 0-100kph in 5.6 seconds). Or they can go for a 4.6-litre V8 with 455hp and the choice of either rear-wheel drive or permanent all-wheel drive. But in either set-up, the acceleration is the same - 0-100kph in 4.6 seconds.

Order books for the car open on Jan 9, the day after it makes its global debut at the Detroit Motor show, which is also when the company will confirm pricing and the full list of standard and optional equipment.

European deliveries will begin in April while US clients will have to wait until August.


Indian auto dealers ask govt for help after Ford exit setback

                NEW DELHI: India's top auto dealers group has asked the Indian government to draft rules to safeguard their interests when global automakers decide to leave the market as Ford has said it will do.

The US company this month said it will stop making cars in the country and end its over two-decades long presence. It took a US$2 billion (RM8.4bil) hit and said it does not see a path to profitability, but the auto dealers group said this has left dealers in the lurch.

The Federation of Automobile Dealers Association (Fada) said in a letter to India's industries ministry, sudden exits by global companies "cause great distress."

Reuters has seen a copy of the letter dated Sept 21.

India's industries ministry could not be reached for comment outside regular business hours.

"We have a plan that ensures continued viable business for our dealer partners," Ford said in a statement, adding that it is also working with them to support existing customers.

"We are very confident that they (Ford) will conduct the discussions with utmost trust and transparency," Rajesh Shah, president of Ford's dealer council said.

Ford is the fifth major automaker to cease manufacturing in India since 2017, following exits by General Motors and Harley Davidson.

Fada's letter asked the ministry to draft a law to "safeguard the dealers' and customers' interests in India."

The group also called for legislation that would ensure adequate information is available to customers and dealers about unfair termination of dealership agreements.

Dealers invested about 24.85 billion rupees (RM1.4bil) in retail outlets of the five brands whose exit has lead to a loss of about 64,000 jobs, Fada said.


Amazon's Zoox robotaxis take to California roads

                SAN FRANCISCO: The Amazon subsidiary Zoox said its self-driving vehicles with no manual controls took to California public roads over the weekend, calling it a major breakthrough for the robotaxi industry.

Use of the boxy electric vehicles is to be limited to full time employees who will be able to use the service only to travel the short distance between two Zoox headquarters buildings about a mile apart in Foster City, near San Francisco, during regular office hours, the company said in a blog post.

"This is an amazing milestone for Zoox and the autonomous vehicle industry as a whole," said chief executive Aicha Evans.

The service was tested during the weekend and will be made available to Zoox employees beginning in the next few months, according to the company.

"Getting to be the world's first passenger in a robotaxi with no manual controls on open public road...was one of the highlights of my life," Zoox co-founder and chief technology officer Jesse Levinson said in the post.

"I can't wait for everyone to experience that magic."

Zoox robotaxis have no steering wheels or pedals for human drivers.

Other companies, such as Alphabet subsidiary Waymo and General Motors subsidiary Cruise, have been testing robotaxi services in limited areas but vehicles are still built with controls to allow a human drivers to take control as a precaution.


Triumph Street Twin EC1 Special Edition open for booking

                KUALA LUMPUR: The new Triumph Street Twin EC1 Special Edition will be available in Malaysia early next year and booking for this bike is accepted now.

The stunning new EC1 Special Edition with its unique paint scheme is available in limited units.

The motorcycle takes its inspiration from the vibrant custom-classic bike culture of London’s East End, particularly the historic streets of EC1, the iconic London postcode.

Hence the name of the bike EC1. The bike features hand-painted silver coach lining dedicated new EC1 graphics and the distinctive Triumph badge.

This special edition is powered by the 900cc "High Torque" Bonneville parallel twin engine that delivers 65hp at 7,500rpm and 80Nm of torque at 3,800rpm.

The bike comes with two riding modes- road and rain plus ABS and switchable traction control.

For further details please call or message Sales Whatsapp at https://wa.me/601123002007?text=EC1 or log in to www.triumphmotorcycles.my.


Third national car project company to be chosen on Jan 28, says daily

                KUALA LUMPUR: The Government is expected to pick the private company that would take charge of the third national car project on Jan 28, according to a Berita Harian report today.

That is the day when Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad would chair a meeting of the National Development Council that would sieve through a selection of contenders.

Ten private investors have expressed an interest to bid for the project to create the first hybrid car that would have semi-autonomous features.

Malaysian Industry-Government Group for High Technology (Might) CEO Datuk Mohd Yusoff Sulaiman echoed the federal stand that the appointed company would not rely on government funding but would instead set up a consortium with private investors to minimise risks.

The meeting would also pick the vendors to support the car project, the Malay daily quoted him as saying.

Among the candidate companies that sought to take on the project were SilTerra Malaysia Sdn Bhd and Sime Darby Auto Engineering, said Mohd Yusoff.

Entrepreneur Development Minister Mohd Redzuan Yusof had said in October last year that the hybrid car could arrive "before 2020."

Dr Mahathir had proposed the car project last year, arguing that it would boost the manufacturing industry and transfer of technology. His idea was met with widespread public criticism, while some quarters urged caution in carrying out the capital-intensive plan.


Could high-speed ebikes one day replace cars in city centres?

                AMSTERDAM: The Dutch electric bicycle manufacturer VanMoof has unveiled its first high-speed model, capable of reaching 50kph and thus, in theory, of replacing cars in urban areas.

With cars now being driven out of many urban centres, manufacturers are increasingly offering this kind of ebike.

With two-wheel drive, thick tyres, front and rear suspension and a particularly robust frame, the VanMoof V will also be equipped with technologies such as automatic gear shifting, keyless locking and an anti-theft system.

It is already possible to reserve a model on the manufacturer's website, where it is priced €3,498 (about RM17,000), with the first shipments not expected before the end of 2022.

Note that the VanMoof V will only be available for certain markets (Netherlands, Germany, United States, France, Japan and Britain).

According to its creators, this speed bike (the name given to high-speed electric bicycles) is a genuine and 100% clean alternative to cars in the city.

While more and more cities are now trying to restrict access to motorists in central zones, having a bike that can reach 50kph at full speed could be a smart solution for quick trips in town, and with no CO2 emissions.

Such a bike can indeed travel as fast, if not faster, than scooters and cars in the city center. Indeed, they are much easier to handle in traffic jams, and can easily get where other motorized vehicles would have more difficulty.

Like VanMoof, and France's Moustache, more and more ebike manufacturers are offering at least one speed bike model. Harley-Davidson is even in on the game, through its Serial 1 ebike subsidiary.


Stellantis invests in Turin in push to boost low emission vehicle production

                TURIN: Stellantis has chosen Italy's historic carmaking city of Turin for an investment to boost its role in low emission vehicle production and as a centre for the recycling of cars and their parts.

The Franco-Italian group signed an agreement with its Belgian partner Punch Powertrain to increase production of electrified dual-clutch transmissions (eDCT) for hybrid and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles at its Mirafiori plant in Turin, the carmaker said on Tuesday.

Producing and selling more electric and hybrid vehicles is a key plank in plans set out in March by Stellantis chief executive Carlos Tavares to double revenue to €300 billion (RM1.4tril) a year by 2030.

Tavares on Tuesday said the group was investing a "double-digit" million euro figure in the gearbox upgrade, without giving a precise figure.

The Mirafiori complex will also become the company's main hub for itsso called 'circular economy' business, focusing on reconditioning and dismantling of vehicles and reusing components, with Tavares seeing a prolonged shortage of raw materials.

Union officials said the recycling operation could create work for 550 people by 2025.

"Scarcity of raw materials will continue in the next decade and we think we can extend the life of materials we use, this is going to be very important for our company," Tavares said in a news conference in Turin.

The group aims to boost recycling revenues ten-fold to 2 billion euros by 2030.

Turin's Mirafiori is the historic home of Fiat, which merged with France's PSA last year to form Stellantis.

It is one of the group's main production sites in Italy along with Melfi in the south and Atessa's Sevel for light commercial vehicles in central Italy. Including white collar staff, Mirafiori now employs some 20,000 workers.

Production at Mirafiori, which also hosts the Stellantis battery hub for Italy, includes the fully-electric 500 small car, one of the group's bestsellers in Europe.

Tavares said production of the model can "easily" double from 45,000 units in 2021, and then triple, as constraints were not tied to capacity or battery pack availability but rather because of other parts affected by the semiconductor supply crunch.

The new Mirafiori e-Transmissions Assembly facility is expected to start production in the second half of 2024.

It will complement the existing capacity of a plant in the French city of Metz, supplying all relevant Stellantis manufacturing sites in Europe, with a total annual production of 1.2 million units on the two sites, Tavares said.


Ford bets on electric Mustang to charge its turnaround

DETROIT: The Mustang Mach-E electric sport utility vehicle Ford Motor Co unveiled in Los Angeles on Sunday is more than another car for the storied automaker.

The Mach-E has become within Ford a high-profile test for a restructuring that has been marred by profit warnings, costly quality problems and the troubled launch this year of another important vehicle, the Ford Explorer sport utility.

For chief executive Jim Hackett, the Mach E’s aggressive design and futuristic interior represent a long-awaited, visible sign of the overhaul of the company’s product creation process that he has tried to explain to sceptical Wall Street analysts for the past two years.

By accelerating the “clock speed” of vehicle development, cutting overlapping product architectures to just five from 13 and extending the company’s most successful brands to new products, Ford could slash US$20 billion out of a five-year, 2018-2023 product plan, said Hackett.

“This is the first thing we generated out of this new thinking,” Hackett said in an interview ahead of the Mach-E unveiling. “We have a lot more coming.”

For Ford chairman Bill Ford Jr., the Mustang Mach-E puts together two previously conflicting goals: His desire for Ford to be a leader in clean cars and make the automaker carbon-neutral by 2030, and his personal love of the Mustang and its growling V8 engine.

“We are really pushing our chips in on the table with this vehicle,” Ford said in an interview ahead of the Mach-E’s unveiling. The automaker has said it will spend US$11.5 billion developing electric and hybrid models by 2022.

The Mach-E started with humble ambitions.

The SUV originally was to be what Ted Cannis, Ford’s global director for electrification, called a “compliance” play — an electric variant of a front-wheel drive internal combustion vehicle, aimed at generating emissions credits to comply with clean air regulations at low cost. There was no link to the Mustang’s muscle car image.

Boring electric cars were the norm for Ford and other legacy automakers. Then Tesla Inc in 2013 launched its Model S — an electric car that looked like a sporty European luxury sedan with a giant screen for a dashboard and entertainment and functional features that could be upgraded with over-the-air software updates.

Tesla’s market value is now higher than Ford’s.

Ford’s own customer research showed dull electric cars were a mistake, Cannis and other executives said.

‘Mustang experience’

Those doubts came to a head in mid-2017 when Hackett, then newly appointed, reviewed the design for the electric SUV with executive vice-president Jim Farley, who has owned seven of the cars starting with a 1965 model he restored when he was 14 years old.

“It’s not good enough,” Hackett recalled saying. Farley agreed, and Hackett said, “We tear it up.”

The team designing the vehicle started over, using a new architecture engineered from the start to be a battery electric vehicle, instead of the original plan to use a modified version of an internal combustion engine vehicle, Ford executives said.

The Mustang muscle car’s distinctive “shark face” front end and body proportions were adapted to a new skin, and under the floor Ford designed a new battery pack that can deliver up to 483km of range in an “extended range” version.

The re-do had to be accomplished much faster than normal to stay on target for a fall 2020 launch.

“We were super behind time,” said exterior designer Chris Walter during a briefing on the vehicle ahead of the Los Angeles debut.

A concept for new dashboard software and a display using a 15.5-inch diagonal screen was pulled together in just 90 days by a 15-person group that called itself Team Menlo — a reference to Thomas Edison’s Menlo Park, New Jersey, laboratory. A paper prototype of the new screen used an empty Keurig coffee pod to represent a large control knob.

The overhaul cost money, but Ford product development chief Hau Thai-tang said the dedicated electric vehicle architecture should allow for 25% to 30% improvements in manufacturing efficiency to help offset the cost.

The final call on using the Mustang name came from the top, and was not given easily.

“I was dead set against it, initially,” Bill Ford said. Ford said he started to warm to the idea as he saw the styling and the performance data for the vehicle.

Ford said he did not grant his approval until earlier this year after driving a prototype.

“It felt like a Mustang experience to me,” he said.

READ MORE:Key details on Ford Mustang Mach-E electric SUV Ford may make new electric Mustang Mach-E in ChinaTurning points

This is not the first time a challenge to re-invent the Mustang has emboldened Ford employees to break with convention during a rough patch in the company’s history.

The original Mustang launched in 1964 was derived from a mainstream Falcon compact car, and quickly became a hit, far outselling the company’s projections.

In the early 1990s, with the economy in a slump, a small group of Ford employees rebelled against a plan to transform the rear-wheel drive Mustang into a front-wheel drive car developed by Ford’s then-partner, Japanese automaker Mazda Motor Corp.

That project became a laboratory for cutting the costs of product engineering by putting representatives of different functions on the same team.

The Mach-E is another turning point, Hackett said. “The science project platform for EVs is now gone.”

 Clever design and engineering disguise rear-seat roominess and ample cargo space in the Mustang Mach-E. The Mustang Mach-E's available panoramic glass roof has a secret: a special coating on the glass with UV protection helps the interior stay cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter. Inside Mustang Mach-E, a wireless charging pad makes it easier to cut the cord with compatible smartphones. The Mustang family.


BMW 530e M Sport: Visionary business sedan

                Hailing from a long line of premium sedans, the latest BMW 5 Series continues to solidify its appeal among businessmen and enthusiasts.

With electrification being the forward direction for major automakers, BMW has introduced the plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) variant of the 5 Series which excels in reducing emissions and fuel consumption while maintaining the performance and driving excitement that are synonymous with the Munich-based manufacturer.

The new BMW 530e M Sport is priced very attractively at RM338,800 and offers a muscular yet fuel-saving plug-in hybrid powertrain, as well as loads of luxurious comfort features and safety technologies.

The 530e M Sport integrates a 184hp 4-cylinder petrol engine with BMW TwinPower Turbo Technology, a 70kW electric motor and a high-voltage lithium-ion battery with a 9.2kWh capacity to deliver an adrenaline-pumping top speed of 235kph.

The overall system output is 252hp and 420Nm of torque, enabling the car to sprint from 0 to 100kph in 6.2 seconds.

Combined with an exceptionally sporty silhouette, M-inspired aesthetics and advanced Driving Assistance technologies, it’s electrifying in every way.

It is framed by BMW Individual high-gloss Shadow Line and is accentuated by the ornamental kidney grille with Active Air Stream for optimum aerodynamics.

In the rear are two-sided exhaust tailpipe finishers with a trapezoidal design in light chrome that further underlines its motorsport DNA.

For optimum road illumination, there are LED fog lights and adaptive LED headlights as standard and these are combined with BMW Selective Beam, an anti-dazzle high-beam assistant.

There is ample power on tap even in fully electric driving mode, as plug-in hybrid vehicles like the 530e M Sport can reach speeds of up to 140kph.

Combined with the BMW TwinPower Turbo engine, the 530e M Sport reaches a top speed of 235kph.

This PHEV can run purely in electric mode for up to 43km under ideal driving conditions; so you can go about your day without using petrol.

Getting this PHEV juiced up and ready to go is easy, with 300 charging stations nationwide and multiple options for home and on-site charging.

Meanwhile, the interior boasts superior comfort and convenience, and features the exclusive M leather steering wheel, M illuminated door sill finishers and M-specific pedals along with stylish front sport seats.

More luxury abounds with Dakota leather upholstery and the BMW Individual anthracite headliner.

Further accentuating its athletic style are the interior trim finishers in Aluminium Rhombicle and highlight trim finishers in Pearl Chrome.

Cabin illumination is courtesy of ambient lighting in 11 predefined designs incorporating six different colours.

For more convenience, Comfort Access provides opening and closing of vehicle doors along with contactless tailgate operation, as well as automatic air-conditioning with 4-zone control.

As the most innovative model in its class, the 530e M Sport is fitted with BMW ConnectedDrive services – a digital service which integrates with the user’s digital life via multiple touchpoints.

The driver will also enjoy driving data from an instrument cluster that utilises a multifunction display with a high-resolution 12.3-inch colour interface using black-panel technology.

Getting guidance to your destination is made much easier with Navigation System Professional displayed on a 10.25-inch touchscreen interface.

The 19-inch M light alloy Double-Spoke 664 M wheels in black with mixed tyres contribute to top-notch driving agility, complete with the flat tyre indicator to ensure safety.

For high performance stopping power, the car also features the M Sport brake with blue-painted brake callipers with M designation.

In terms of safety, the 530e M Sport benefits from the Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) that is complemented by Dynamic Traction Control (DTC), Cornering Brake Control (CBC), Dynamic Brake Control (DBC) and the Antilock Braking System (ABS) with Brake Assist.

There is also high-tech Driving Assistance via Lane Departure and Change Warning, front collision alert with brake intervention, rear collision prevention and crossing-traffic warning.
Owners also benefit from Cruise Control with braking function, as well as the Parking Assistant for automatic parallel and perpendicular parking.

The 530e M Sport is available in Black Sapphire or Sophisto Grey, paired with either the Black or Night Blue Leather Dakota upholstery; or in Bluestone or Alpine White paired with Black Leather Dakota upholstery.


Searches for Aston Martins spike as 'No Time to Die' released

                LONDON: Searches for Aston Martins on Auto Trader, the UK’s largest digital marketplace for new and used cars, spiked with an increase of 75% following the release of No Time to Die over the weekend.

Cinemagoers looking to fuel their Bond fantasy caused a surge in views for classic Aston Martins, with the top three most viewed classic cars over the past week being two DB5s and a DB6.

Searches for Jaguars and Land Rovers also soared, with a rise of 13% alongside the airing of the film.

Daniel Craig’s fifth and final outing as 007 has smashed box office records, becoming the biggest movie of the year after only four days in cinemas.

Box office trackers Comscore said the film pulled in £25.9 million (RM147mil) in between  Friday and Sunday.

For comparison, Skyfall's first weekend takings was £20.2 million (RM115mil) and Spectre's £19.8 million (RM113mil).


Audi showcases 4-door e-tron GT with 400km range in LA

                LOS ANGELES: Audi presented in the movie capital Los Angeles an electric powered e-tron GT concept, a four-door coupé that's making its debut as a show car.

The series-production counterpart is set to follow in late 2020. Initial deliveries will be made to customers in early 2021.

It's the next electric Audi after the e-tron SUV and the e‑tron Sportback slated for 2019.

The concept car shows a flat-floor architecture that provides for Gran Turismo proportions and a low centre of gravity. It will have 434kW/590PS ensure performance fit for a sports car.

The torque is transferred to the wheels via the quattro permanent all-wheel drive with torque vectoring.

The performance subsidiary Audi Sport GmbH is charged with subsequently transforming the car into a series-production model.

GT sizing

The Audi e‑tron GT concept has the proportions of a classic Gran Turismo - flat, wide and with a long wheelbase. It is 4.96-metre long, 1.96-metre wide and 1.38‑metre high.

The lightweight body of the four-door coupé is made using various materials. The roof is made from carbon along with numerous aluminium components and supporting elements made from high-strength steel.

The technology for this automobile was developed in collaboration with Porsche. The gently sloping roofline of the e-tron GT concept that extends well into the rear echoes the Sportback layout that is the hallmark of the brand.

The cabin that tapers strongly towards the rear stands out compared with current Audi models. Wheel arches and shoulders are sculpted emphatically and, together with the flat floor that is unusual for an electric vehicle, visually underlines the low centre of gravity and the dynamic potential of the e-tron GT concept.

The broad lines and the numerous functional elements of the body as well as the air vents of the wheel arches and the solid rear diffuser emphasise its origins in the wind tunnel. A low drag coefficient that reduces fuel consumption and the low uplift visually characterise the design.

The sill area between the wheel arches has been drawn way outwards, creating a distinctive contrast with the cabin.

The sill draws the eye to the underfloor area where the battery and thus the energy centre of the e-tron GT concept are located.

The design of the wheels with their five twin spokes is also visibly aligned to their function. Their dynamic design provides optimum ventilation of the brake discs while also reducing drag. Shod with 285/30 size tyres, the 22-inch wheels also make a clear statement when seen from the side.

The hallmark Audi Singleframe is located in the centre of the front section. Compared with the two e-tron SUVs its architecture is much more horizontal. The top half comes with a cover painted in body colour. Its surface structure is reminiscent of the typical honeycomb pattern of the grille on the Audi RS models – a visual signal which characterises the Audi e-tron GT concept as a future product of Audi Sport GmbH.

Together with the targeted airflow of the body, large air inlets in the front effectively cool the assemblies, battery and brakes. The hood with its airflow on the surface echoes the brand’s two latest show cars, the Aicon and the PB18 e-tron. It is designed in such a way that the airflow hugs the body, thus reducing undesired swirl.

The arrow-shaped front section also emphasises the matrix LED headlights with laser high beam, underscoring the dynamic presence of the e-tron GT concept even while stationary.

As already seen with the brand’s current Visions vehicles, the light is also animated here and welcomes the driver with a short function sequence, the wave of light that extends horizontally: a new visual signature that is set to find its way into series production in future.

A light strip runs across the entire width of the rear. This strip dissipates at the outer edges, in the actual lighting units, into individual wedge-shaped LED segments. This architecture links the e-tron GT with the series-production SUV e-tron, making both instantly recognisable even in the dark as Audi electric automobiles.

The new exterior colour kinetic dust is a warm, dark colour akin to titanium. Depending on the incidence and movement of the light, it provides significant contrast between the body surfaces. Matt, warm-tinted aluminium elements on the window slot trim and rims emphasise these effects even further.

Vegan interior

Four doors, four seats with 2.90 metres wheelbase – in the interior the e‑tron GT concept provides a large dose of everyday usability, coupled with a high quality feel.

The functional centre of the interior is located at the front left, visibly focused on the driver’s seat. The centre console, the large touchscreen in the top section and the line from the door rail and cockpit frame the driver’s workplace, perfectly incorporate the driver ergonomically with the controls and the infotainment of the Audi e‑tron GT.

Light colours in the top section of the cockpit and the gradually darker gradation through to the floor area create the impression of clear width. Sport seats inspired by motor racing in both rows of seats provide optimum lateral support even while cornering at speed.

Both the screen of the central instrument and the touchscreen above the centre console come with a black-panel look finish.

Various layouts are available for the monitors to present the functions depending on the driver’s preference, including virtual instrument dials, easy-to-read navigation maps with information on the range, or various infotainment function menus. They are controlled via the touchscreen with tactile feedback.

With the concept car the designers have gone for the consistent use of sustainable materials. Animal-based products are not used : the Audi e‑tron GT concept comes with a vegan interior.

Synthetic leather is used on the seats and other trim surfaces. Fabrics made from recycled fibres are used on the seat cushions as well as the armrests and on the centre console.

Microfibre material adorns the headlining and the trim of the window pillars. Even the deep-pile floor carpet is made from sustainable Econyl yarn, a recycled fibre made from used fishing nets.

With two luggage compartments, the e-tron GT concept offers a great many options for a Gran Turismo. Here it makes full use of its concept advantage as an electric automobile with compact drive units. The rear with its large tailgate offers up to 450 litres of luggage capacity. Under the bonnet there is an extra 100 litres of capacity.

Performance and range

The all-electric drive musters 434kW/590hp of system power. Separate electric motors are fitted to the front and rear axles. In both cases these are permanently excited synchronous motors. This is an electric quattro since there is no mechanical link between the front and rear axle. The electronic control system coordinates the drive between the axles as well as between left and right wheels. That means optimum traction and just the desired amount of slip.

In future, the vehicle should accelerate from 0 to 100kph in around 3.5 seconds before going on to 200kph in just over 12 seconds. The top speed is regulated at 240kph to maximise the range.

One feature that not all the competition can match is the option of fully using the drive’s acceleration potential several times in succession. While elsewhere the drive is switched to overdrive for thermal considerations, the e-tron GT concept can provide the driver with the full potential of both motors and the battery thanks to its sophisticated cooling strategy.

The range of the concept car will be over 400km, determined according to the new WLTP standard. The required drive energy comes from a lithium-ion battery with an energy content of more than 90 kWh, which takes up the entire underfloor area between the front and rear axle with its flat design.

The advantage of this design is the car’s extremely low centre of gravity – comparable with that of the Audi R8 – which in turn decisively benefits dynamic handling.

The recuperation system increases the range by up to 30 percent on Audi electric vehicles – this is essential even with a sports car such as the e-tron GT concept. The recuperation involves both the two electric motors and the electro-hydraulically integrated brake control system.

The e-tron GT concept features ceramic discs.

Three ways to charge

The battery can be charged in several ways: using a cable which is connected behind the flap in the left front wing, or by means of contactless induction with Audi Wireless Charging. Here a charging pad with integral coil is installed permanently on the floor where the car is to be parked, and connected to the power supply.

The alternating magnetic field induces an alternating voltage in the secondary coil fitted in the floor of the car, across the air gap. With a charging output of 11 kW the Audi e-tron GT concept can be fully charged conveniently overnight.

Wired charging is much faster as the four-door coupé is fitted with an 800-volt system. This substantially reduces charging times compared with conventional systems that are currently in use.

Thus it takes around 20 minutes to recharge the battery to 80 percent of its capacity, once again providing a range of more than 318km (WLTP). The e-tron GT concept can, however, also be recharged at charging points with lower voltages, providing the driver with access to the entire charging network.

Audi launched its electric offensive with the world premiere of the e-tron in September 2018. By 2025, it will offer 12 cars with all-electric drive in the most important markets worldwide and achieve roughly one-third of its sales with electrified models.

The range will cover every relevant market segment from the compact to the full-size class. In addition, there will be a range of models with classic body layouts such as Avant and Sportback.

Another joint project of the development departments at Audi and Porsche is the Premium Platform Electric (PPE). It will be the foundation for multiple Audi model families with all-electric drive covering the high-volume B through D segments.


BYD distributor says it now has three 3S dealerships

                KUALA LUMPUR: BYD distributor Sime Darby Beyond Auto now has three 3S centres in the Klang Valley.

Located in Ara Damansara, Glenmarie and Cheras, the centres aim to provide accessibility, convenience and top-notch sales and aftersales services for BYD customers. More dealerships would be set up nationwide by the end of 2023.

Customers can enjoy a variety of amenities in these new BYD 3S Centres such as comfortable lounges, complimentary WiFi service, charging bays, as well as free flow coffee
and snacks (not all outlets, check with distributor).

Sime Darby Beyond Auto, a subsidiary of Sime Darby Motors, has invested RM11 million into the Ara Damansara outlet.

The centre sits on 19,375 square-foot built-up area and is equipped with the latest facilities and retail concept that comply with BYD’s brand identity. The facility includes a total of four service bays with the capacity to service up to 270 units of vehicle per month supported by a crew of 48.

The Glenmarie centre, managed by BYD Sisma Auto, measures 21,527 sq ft. It has a capacity to display up to nine vehicles and is equipped with 10 service work bays.

The Cheras centre, operated by Millenium Autobeyond, spans 21,323 sq ft, and can display up to four cars and can service up to five cars at a time.

A launch ceremony was held at the Ara Damansara outlet recently to celebrate the milestone. Among those present were Sime Darby Bhd CEO Datuk Jeffri Salim Davidson and BYD chairman and president Wang Chuanfu.

"We look forward to offering Malaysians innovative and sustainable BYD vehicles and solutions that meet their mobility needs and contribute to a greener future,” said Jeffri.

"BYD will be bringing in more advanced products and technologies to the Malaysian market for a better green life mobility experience,” said Wang.

Apart from the 3S outlets, Sime Darby Beyond Auto operates a showroom at TREC KL in Jalan Tun Razak here.

BYD Ara Damansara
Address : Block 1, Sime Darby Motors City, 6, Jalan PJU 1A/7, Ara
Damansara, 47301 Petaling Jaya, Selangor
Contact : 1300-38-1888
Business Hours : Monday – Saturday: 8:30 AM – 5:30 AM
Sundays & Public Holidays: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Website : https://byd.simedarbymotors.myBYD Sisma Auto
Address : 19, Jalan Perintis U1/52, Section U1 Temasya, 40150
Shah Alam, Selangor
Contact : 03-5569 2260
Business Hours : Monday - Friday: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Saturday: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Sunday: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Website : https://byd.sismaauto.com/Millenium Autobeyond
Address : No 691, Batu 5, Jln Cheras, Taman Mutiara Barat, 56100
Kuala Lumpur, Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur
Contact : 03-9133 7228
Business Hours : Monday - Saturday: 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM
Sunday: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM


Parking woes return in KL

                KUALA LUMPUR: Business owners have returned to their old habits of hijacking public parking bays directly in front of their premises, according to Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL).

The movement control order (MCO) since March 18 has also not changed the attitude of motorists who continue to double and triple park, causing the usual congestion on busy streets all over the city.

After the Government eased restrictions under the recovery MCO on June 10, DBKL officers from Bukit Bintang, Seputeh, Cheras, Segambut and Lembah Pantai branches received complaints about this.

“I went out to do some shopping and was annoyed that there was not a single parking space available, but there were dozens of empty ones which were blocked with cones, chairs, flower pots and other things, ’’ said Lilian Teh of Taman United in Jalan Kelang Lama.

Teh left her house mid-morning on June 11 to buy some groceries and household supplies and stopped to do her shopping in Jalan Sepadu.

She could not find a single parking bay available.

“It was still early and there was hardly anyone around, yet there was no bay available, ’’ she said.

Taman Bukit Indah resident K.C. Cheah agreed with Teh, and said she too visited a pet shop in Jalan Sepadu, and was irritated to see so many obstructed parking bays.

“It is selfish but the shop owners won’t change, ” she said.

Apart from Taman United, DBKL said this problem was also rampant in Brickfields, Taman Tun Dr Ismail, Taman Segar, Taman Midah and Taman Miharja.

Photos of restaurant operators blocking parking bays with wooden boxes, tables, chairs and motorcycles, including those of motorists double and triple parking captured by the authorities as of June 10 were sent to StarMetro.

Cheah said shop owners tricked DBKL enforcement officers by using broken bicycles and motorcycles to obstruct parking bays.

“When the officers check the area, no one will own up to their wrongdoing.

“Once the officers remove the junk and leave, the shop owners will block the parking bays again, ” Cheah said, adding that the owners were not penalised for this and it had been their modus operandi for years.In 2018, DBKL revamped the criteria on eligibility to reserve parking bays in the city. Its appointed parking operator, Vista Summerose Sdn Bhd, was instructed to suspend the renewals and new applications for parking bays for rent.

Out of 40,000 DBKL parking bays in the city, 3,500 were reserved spots and since the suspension, more than 3,000 parking bays were released to the public.

A business owner who had taken up two parking bays in front of his shop by placing rubbish bins defended his action.

“We applied for a licence to do business here, and the nature of my work requires me to have an unobstructed entrance to my premises.

“By not allowing me to use the space in front of my shop, it is akin to hindering me from doing business.

“The real culprits who hog the bays are those who use it for long-term parking, and they monopolise it without paying any charges, ” said Janson Lee.

He urged the authorities to be fair to business owners.

Joseph Kumar, a Bangsar resident, said he did not like people parking in front of his house the whole day.

Although the cars did not block his gate, he said motorists should not occupy the space for long periods to avoid paying parking charges in commercial areas.

“One hour is acceptable, but not the whole day, ” he said.


Renault bets on hydrogen for its upcoming concept car

                PARIS: Renault is set to unveil a new hydrogen-powered concept car in May 2022.

This could pave the way for a first production model of this kind, while the manufacturer is due to release its first hydrogen-powered utility vehicle this year.

This new concept, which could one day give rise to a production model, forms part of the brand's decarbonisation strategy.

It will embody the Renault group's commitment to sustainable development. This new concept is also in line with the automaker's objective to become 100% electric by 2030 in Europe.

The hydrogen component of "Renaulution" has already begun, with the presentation in 2021 of a prototype electric van powered by green hydrogen, obtained from water electrolysis using electricity from renewable sources.

A production version, intended primarily for companies and local authorities, should be available this year.

A hydrogen-powered car can travel long distances without producing CO2 emissions, as the vehicle only emits water.

In addition, it only takes a few minutes to fill up the tank, unlike charging an EV with electricity.

Toyota, Honda and Hyundai are currently the manufacturers most involved in the development of hydrogen-powered fuel cell cars.

In France, the Renault group is not the only one using this technology.

Stellantis, via Citroën, Peugeot and Opel, has also already presented several models, although these are only utility vehicles at the moment.


Proton X70 SUV previewed

                SUBANG JAYA: Proton's long awaited first SUV was shown at a media preview today ahead of its launch later this year. Bookings for the SUV will open tomorrow with a deposit of RM1,000.

The name of the Geely Boyue-based vehicle was also announced as X70, the first time a Proton model gets an alphanumeric name. The name was arrived at after Proton held an online contest and Malaysians were asked to choose one of four proposed names - PX70, X7, X70 and X700.

The use of the name X70 was to "make it easier for Proton to sell the X70 in Asean and other international markets as there are no language barriers to overcome."

What was revealed at the preview was that the X70 will first arrive in Malaysia in CBU form before it becomes a CKD unit and is expected to show up sometime in November with sales being performed at its 3S and 4S centres.

Additionally, the X70's local production facility will become the central production hub for right-hand drive markets and will carry the Proton badge.

Customers will have a choice of four variants starting with the entry-level Standard (2WD), mid-range Executive (2WD and AWD) and finally the Premium (2WD).

During the preview, the X70 Executive (AWD) and Premium were showcased together with its 18-inch wheels wrapped by 225/60 series tyres and a 1.8-litre turbocharged gasoline direct-injection (TGDI) engine, with Eco and Sport driving modes, producing 181hp and 285Nm of torque and is managed by a six-speed automatic. No paddle shifters were seen.

Externally, it was fitted with front automatic LED headlights with daytime running lights that flanked Geely's signature infinite weave grille that now sports a Proton's badge as well as rear LED light clusters to name a few.

Inside, the cabin featured Nappa leather upholstery, fully digital (and customisable) instrument cluster, powered driver's seat, six USB ports, hill descent control, electric brake with auto-hold function, anti-glare rear view mirror, built-in ionizer under the centre arm rest, cruise control, keyless entry with push-start button and possibly a blind-spot monitoring system among others.

The Premium variant was equipped with front passenger powered seat with dual controls, panoramic retractable tinted glass roof.

"The letter X is also synonymous with crossover or SUV vehicles so using it makes it easy to identify the segment this Proton model is from while the number 70 denotes the size/class of the SUV and gives Proton a logical system to add bigger or smaller models in the future,” said Proton Edar CEO Abdul Rashid Musa.

Along with the media preview, Proton will be holding a series of customer events in seven towns and cities to gauge public response to the X70.

The customer events, to run from Sept 19-Nov 4, would also be held to allow members of the public, the banking and insurance industry as well as potential corporate buyers to get a close look at the X70 before it is launched.

Proton said its plan is to reach out to 6,000 people through such media and customer previews.

READ MORE:Proton to launch Geely Boyue-based SUV by October
Proton SUV to get lane keep assist; ACC; voice control; bird's eye view
Facelifted Geely Boyue gets more premium features
2018 Proton SUV gets automatic emergency brake assist
Proton to enter China: New factory and dealer network
Proton sees 2020 turnaround; competitor Honda, not Perodua
2017 Geely Boyue: Quick test drive in Ningbo


New BMW i8 launched from RM1.3mil

                KUALA LUMPUR: BMW Malaysia launched the new iteration of the BMW i8 Coupé, the plug-in hybrid sports car priced at RM1,310,800.00 (on-the-road with 0% GST, without insurance and SST).

The 2+2-seater features a flat bonnet, visible aerodynamics measures, short overhangs, a long wheelbase, large track widths and an elongated roofline to create an aura of dynamism, lightness and efficiency.

The streamlined and flat silhouette of the new BMW i8 Coupé is combined with a pronounced wedge shape to give the car its classic sports-car look – an impression that is accentuated by is unmistakable scissor doors that open forward and upward in the most stylish gesture.

The acclaimed drivetrain of the new BMW i8 Coupé consists of an electric motor on the front axle and an internal combustion engine on the rear.

The engine’s power is channelled to the rear wheels through a six-speed Steptronic transmission, while the electric motor drives the front wheels via a two-speed automatic gearbox.

The high-voltage battery is located centrally in the car’s underbody to provide a low centre of gravity, with an increased cell capacity of 33 Ah from the previous 20 Ah.

The electric motor output has increased by 9kW to 105kW, and the electric range now extends to 55 kilometres, broadening the reach of all-electric mobility well beyond the city limits.

The turbocharged three-cylinder combustion engine featuring direct injection and Valvetronic variable valve timing extracts a maximum output of 231hp from its displacement of just 1.5 litres, plus peak torque of 320Nm.

The combined system output produced by the electric motor and engine acting in unison has also increased to 374hp in the new BMW i8 Coupé.

It accelerates from 0 to 100kph in 4.4 seconds, with a fuel consumption of 1.8 l/100 km, which equates to 42g/km for petrol CO2 emissions.

The cockpit is fitted out with the BMW Head-up Display that changes to a sports display that includes revs, gears and shift lights when performing manual gear changes in Sport mode.

The Navigation System Professional features the most up-to-date user interface, including a modern tile display with live mode. It is controlled using the iDrive operating system, comprising both a Touch Controller on the centre console and an 8.8-inch freestanding Control Display screen.

Adding a futuristic touch to the interior are the open-pored CFRP Carbon trim on the centre console, door handle and dashboard inlay, the ceramic controls with an embossed i8 logo on the iDrive Controller, and the ceramic finish on the gear selection lever.

The New BMW i8 Coupé’s exterior comes in Crystal White with a Frozen Grey highlight, or the new BMW Individual special paintwork Donington Grey, with the interior in Black Amido or Accaro respectively.

Customers of the New BMW i8 Coupé will also experience the complete BMW Group Malaysia Premium Ownership experience which includes the 5-Year Unlimited Mileage Warranty with Free Scheduled Service Program; 2-Year/24 Month Tyre Warranty Program for its Run Flat Tyre offering and services; BMW Roadside Assistance and Accident Hotline; BMW Group Loyalty+ Mobile App - BMW White Card and BMW Service Online.

BMW i8 (old)


Tesla hit with class action lawsuit over alleged privacy intrusion

                SAN FRANCISCO: A California Tesla owner on Friday sued the electric carmaker in a prospective class action lawsuit accusing it of violating the privacy of customers.

The lawsuit in the US District Court for the Northern District of California came after Reuters reported on Thursday that groups of Tesla employees privately shared via an internal messaging system sometimes highly invasive videos and images recorded by customers’ car cameras between 2019 and 2022.

The lawsuit, filed by Henry Yeh, a San Francisco resident who owns Tesla's Model Y, alleges that Tesla employees were able to access the images and videos for their "tasteless and tortious entertainment" and "the humiliation of those surreptitiously recorded."

"Like anyone would be, Mr Yeh was outraged at the idea that Tesla's cameras can be used to violate his family's privacy, which the California Constitution scrupulously protects," Jack Fitzgerald, an attorney representing Yeh, said in a statement to Reuters.

"Tesla needs to be held accountable for these invasions and for misrepresenting its lax privacy practices to him and other Tesla owners," Fitzgerald said.

Tesla did not immediately respond to Reuters request for comment.

The lawsuit said Tesla’s conduct is "particularly egregious" and "highly offensive."

It said Yeh was filing the complaint "against Tesla on behalf of himself, similarly-situated class members, and the general public." The complaint said the prospective class would include individuals who owned or leased a Tesla within the past four years.

Reuters reported that some Tesla employees could see customers "doing laundry and really intimate things. We could see their kids," citing a former employee.

"Indeed, parents’ interest in their children’s privacy is one of the most fundamental liberty interests society recognizes," the lawsuit said.

The lawsuit asks the court "to enjoin Tesla from engaging in its wrongful behavior, including violating the privacy of customers and others, and to recover actual and punitive damages."