Porsche 911 GT3 a RM1.7mil lightweight powerhouse

                KUALA LUMPUR: The latest Porsche 911 GT3 has arrived and with a price-tag that starts from RM1.7mil, it’ll come with a seven-speed Porsche Doppelkupplung (PDK) gearbox as standard or at a no-cost option with a six-speed manual (6MT) with auto-blip function that’s meant to entice the purist.

The new GT3 isn’t just about power gains, with its body receiving a few revisions to better its downforce while maintaining its drag coefficient at 0.33Cd and including a rear underbody diffuser.

Furthermore, it’s dropped some weight from its front and rear bumpers being made of lightweight polyurethane along with carbon fibre for the hinges and rear wing that sits 20mm higher in the air than before.

As standard, it boasts of Bi-Xenon headlights, including dynamic range control, headlight washer system and LEDs for the direction indicators, daytime running lights and position lights. LED headlights in black are available as an option.

The car has been developed on the same test track and manufactured on the same production line as the 911 GT3 Cup racing car.

It has a 2,457mm wheelbase and is 4,562mm-long, 1,978mm-wide and 1,271mm-tall, while sporting a 125-litre luggage compartment under the front hood.

A 64-litre fuel tank feeds the rear-mounted 4.0-litre (3,996cc) naturally aspirated flat-six aluminium engine with a compression ratio of 13.3:1 that can rev almost 1,000rpm higher at 9,000rpm, compared to its predecessor’s 3.8-litre mill.

Power is rated at 500hp (+25hp) at 8,250rpm and 460Nm (+20Nm) of torque at 6,000rpm, allowing the 1,430kg (kerb) GT3 with PDK to launch from 0-100kph in 3.4 seconds before reaching a top speed of 318kph.

Opting for the 6MT ups the figures to 3.9 seconds and 320kph, while dropping the weight further to 1,413kg.

Grip comes from its 20-inch wheels fitted with 245/35 (front) and 305/30 (rear) series Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tyres with tyre pressure monitoring system. The rear axle comes with active steering for a tighter turning radius and better cornering performance.

The six-piston (front) and four-piston (rear) brake callipers bite down on the 380mm front and rear cross-drilled discs for stopping power. The Porsche Ceramic Composite Brake (PCCB) system is also available as an optional extra, providing 410mm (front and 390mm (rear) discs.

Ride and handling is aided by the Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) shock absorber system, dynamic engine mounts and the rear differential lock - Porsche Torque Vectoring (PTV/PTV+) system.

Inside, a roll-over cage is provided as standard for the two-seater cabin that’s practically wrapped in Alcantara and accented by carbon fibre - just like the semi-powered Sports Seats Plus with enhanced side bolsters.

If the current seats aren’t to the liking, there are three seating options for choice, starting with the heavier 18-way powered seats, lighter sports bucket seats or lightest full-bucket carbon fibre seats.

An optional Club Sport package is available as an optional extra, which throws in a roll-cage, six-point racing harness and a fire extinguisher.

In addition to the Porsche Communication Management (PCM) that comes with an online navigation module with real-time traffic information, it also includes the Connect Plus module and the Track Precision app as well, which enables drivers to display, record and analyse detailed driving data on their smartphone.

Furthermnore, this GT3 thoroughbred is also fitted with a Paddle Neutral function that allows the driver to pull back on both paddle shifters located behind the 360mm-wide steering wheel (plucked from the 918 Spyder) to disengage the PDK’s clutches - much like a clutch for a manual transmission.

Lastly, a pneumatic lift has also been included to help lift the vehicle by up to 30mm and stay up there while travelling at 50kph and below.


Temporary Delhi diesel vehicle ban leaves automakers in the dark

                NEW DELHI: A nearly four-week ban on registering new diesel-powered vehicles in India's capital has confused automakers and investors, prompting concerns that efforts to battle Delhi's air pollution could derail the auto industry's tentative recovery.

India's top environmental court on Friday banned the registration of diesel vehicles in Delhi until Jan 6 as the city experiences hazardous levels of pollution, in part due to diesel emissions. But the court's ruling gave little detail, sparking a sell-off in automakers' shares on Monday and industry frustration.

Shares in Tata Motors, India's second-biggest automaker by market value, fell as much as 4.6 percent, while market top utility vehicle maker Mahindra & Mahindra's stock was down as much as 2.65 percent, adding to losses on Friday after the ruling.

"If our vehicles are banned in the largest market in India (New Delhi), that is bound to have an impact on the bottom growth for us or anybody else for that matter," Pawan Goenka, an executive director at Mahindra told reporters on Saturday during a media conference call.

Delhi, labelled the world's most polluted city in a 2014 World Health Organization survey, alone makes up about 7 percent of total Indian auto sales, Goenka said.

The ban by India's National Green Tribunal came a day before world leaders at the global climate summit in Paris struck a weekend deal to rein in rising emissions blamed for warming the planet. The ruling can be challenged in a higher court.

Diesel-powered cars are popular in India as the fuel is cheaper than petrol, prompting global carmakers to invest in strengthening their diesel car portfolio over the years.

But Delhi is working to shake off the most polluted city tag. It has already said it will restrict private cars circulating based on odd or even licence plate numbers, from Jan 1.

South Korea's Hyundai Motor joined Mahindra in saying the ruling created uncertainty on the status of cars sold but not registered. The Society of Indian Auto Manufacturers warned the move could derail an ongoing turnaround in car sales, which rose about 9 percent to 1.8 million in April-November.

"The auto industry is capital-intensive and high-technology and requires a long-term road map with clear policies and regulation...otherwise it could impact the manufacturing sector," said Rakesh Srivastava, senior vice president, sales and marketing at Hyundai's Indian unit.

About a third of cars sold by Hyundai in Delhi are powered by diesel engines, he said.


China's FAW lures away Rolls-Royce designer Giles Taylor

                JILIN (China): It's the trend for Chinese car makers to hire or lure away Westerners with the experience of working at established American or European car companies.

China's FAW Group is the latest to do so, snapping up Rolls-Royce design director Giles Taylor (pic), giving him the fancy title of "global vice president of design and chief creative officer".

He will be based in Munich where he is expected to help set up a FAW Advanced Design Centre that will advance the HONGQI luxury brand for FAW as well as work on production and concept cars.

Taylor comes with quite an impressive resume. He was with Rolls-Royce Motorcars from 2011 until now. He led the design of a number of models including the drop-head Dawn, Phantom VIII limousine and the recently launched Cullinan SUV. In 2016, his Rolls-Royce 103ex concept vehicle laid an “autonomous luxury” vision beyond 2040.

Prior to that, Taylor had spent 13 years at Jaguar Cars during which time he was the chief designer for the current XJ saloon and XK sportscar launched in 2005.

He is a graduate of London's Royal College of Art. FAW did not say when Taylor would report for duty.

FAW chairman Xu Liuping said Taylor's mandate was to take the company's products and services international.

FAW is ranked as one of the "Big Four" Chinese automakers alongside Changan Automobile, Dongfeng Motor and SAIC Motor.

It made 2.7 million vehicles in 2014, making it third in output.
FAW manages a number of marques such as Hongqi, Besturn, Junpai and Oley. It also has joint ventures with Toyota, Mazda, Audi, General Motors and Volkswagen to make their cars for sale in China.


Nissan bets on in-house technologies for next-generation solid-state battery

                TOKYO: Nissan Motor Co. is betting that experience pioneering lithium-ion batteries for electric vehicles more than a decade ago will give it an upper hand in producing a new, yet still relatively unproven battery that some see as key to unlocking the future potential of EVs.

Nissan is producing prototype solid-state battery cells - which replace the electrical current-conducting liquid found in conventional batteries with a solid substance - at a facility resembling a pop-up lab inside its research grounds near its Yokohama headquarters.

The Japanese automaker plans to bring the new type of batteries to market by fiscal year 2028, readying a pilot plant for them ahead of that around 2024.

If they can be manufactured, solid-state batteries would unlock cheaper, safer and faster-charging EVs, according to automotive executives and battery experts.

Using different material combinations, Nissan predicts it will eventually be able to produce a solid-state battery pack that costs US$65 (RM275) per kilowatt-hour - a level at which analysts say EVs could reach price parity with gasoline-engine cars.

With its prototype facility, Nissan is joining almost every EV maker globally spending heavily on solving the slew of material and manufacturing issues that have thus far prevented solid-state batteries from making it into mass production.

Challenges with the batteries include a tendency to form spiky lithium structures called dendrites that can cause short-circuiting, and each manufacturer is working on its own solution.

With 10-plus years of research, development and major funding behind solid-state EV batteries, the fact that a few core technologies have not yet won out highlights the "very complex and difficult process of making a full solid-state battery that’s EV-sized and has quite a low rate of failure off the line,” said Max Reid, a battery raw materials research analyst at Wood Mackenzie.

 Doi.

In line with Nissan’s timeline, Wood Mackenzie sees solid-state batteries as a technology that’s still "closer to 2030 than 2025,” Reid said.

In its drive to develop next-generation cells, Nissan - similar to Japan’s other top automakers Toyota Motor Corp. and Honda Motor Co. - is taking a different approach than many of its western peers.

While a number of car companies including Volkswagen AG, Ford Motor Co. and BMW AG have handed off development of solid-state cells to startups in the likes of Solid Power Inc. and QuantumScape Corp., Japanese automakers are pushing to keep research and development largely in-house.

To design new types of batteries "you need to start with the desired performance of a car, from there setting requirements for batteries and finally materials,” said Nissan corporate vice president Kazuhiro Doi.

Creating that kind of battery-vehicle interplay is difficult for automakers specialising only in car design or battery makers focused solely on manufacturing cells.

That’s something Nissan learned while creating batteries for the world’s first mass-market EV, the LEAF, over a decade ago, according to Doi.

Nissan, though still in the "trial and error” period of development, has been able to design solid-state cells with roughly double the energy density of conventional liquid lithium-ion batteries, Doi said.

The company is working with some external partners, including Nasa, to use data and artificial intelligence to evaluate the countless potential combinations of solid-state battery materials.

At the current stage though, it’s difficult to gauge progress with regard to solid-state batteries given the secrecy of the battery industry, enforced by manufacturers seeking to protect their trademark technologies.

That opacity has led some developers to be accused of making exaggerated technical claims about their batteries.

"To compare or measure companies’ success, we’d need to see them produce an EV pack worth of cells,” said Wood Mackenzie’s Reid.

"Whoever gets to that hurdle first would be one of the frontrunners.”

For now, Nissan’s Doi says that having internal R&D and production teams working on development gives the automaker a stronger sense of the battery’s commercialisation timeline.

"If we rely on others, we won’t have ample foresight,” he said.


Safely back in the saddle: Preparing to get back on your motorcycle

                MUNICH: Good weather especially lures motorcyclists back to their bikes. Some may not have ridden in years and they need to prepare adequately for getting back in the saddle because motorcycling has its dangers.

It's better to approach the return to motorcycling carefully, advises Jürgen Lebherz of technical inspection agency TÜV, "because reaction time, perception or conditions change over the years."

That's why it's important to practise not only controlling the machine at high speeds, but also the dexterity needed to roll along slowly in confined spaces, in city traffic, for example.

Practise on familiar routes

With increasing age, it’s not only physical fitness that declines. Getting back on your bike should also be prepared for mentally, for example, by practising on roads that you’re already familiar with.

In this way, bikers can slowly get used to their bike, traffic, and changes in technology. After all, engines and brakes have evolved over time.

If you haven't ridden for a while, the best thing to do is to take practice lessons with a driving instructor. Lebherz advises this not only for newcomers, but for all motorcyclists.

Lessons will help you to quickly get used to new techniques, such as braking with ABS.

Is your old bike still right for you?

When choosing a suitable motorcycle for your return to the road, you should also consider your age.

"If there is still a bike parked in the garage, one should consider self-critically whether this set of wheels is still the right choice," says Lebherz.

If the bike isn't right, it makes sense to visit a specialist motorcycle dealer. There you can find out about the current state of the art and also find the right type of motorcycle for your return.

Often, people returning to motorcycling opt for so-called all-rounders, which combine the characteristics of a touring bike with those of a sports machine.

Protective clothing has also become better with the years and Lebherz advises against using your old gear. Shoes, gloves and helmets — these all age.

Replacing your helmet after about five years is always a good investment in your own safety. In addition, advances such as airbags and neck protectors offer far better protection than an old leather suit alone.


Hyundai-Sime Darby Motors subsidises dealers in hard times

                PETALING JAYA: Hyundai-Sime Darby Motors (HSDM) is offering subsidies for dealers and sales consultants to alleviate their financial hardship.

HSDM will provide a special monthly Hardship Allowance for sales staff from April to June 2020.

This subsidy is only applicable to sales personnel who have worked at least three months, and not for those serving notice. They will receive this subsidy through their dealerships.

Dealers are offered financial subsidies for online marketing expenses and purchase of hand sanitisers, disinfectants and thermometers for use at their sales and service outlets, to reassure the visiting public and to curb the spread of Covid-19.

“The pandemic has badly affected the auto sector. We understand the hardship of our dealers and salespeople, and we hope the subsidy will help ease their financial burden and help with the cost of health and safety measures at all authorised Hyundai sales and service outlets,” said HSDM. managing director Low Yuan Lung,

HSDM said health and safety measures have been put in place at service outlets that have reopened. Others will soon follow and they would all follow the standard protocol as outline below:

> Hand sanitisation and temperature checks for all visitors and staff at all showroom entry points.
> Sanitisers at all customer touchpoints (e.g. Reception, Washroom, Sales & Service Consultation Area)
> Regular disinfection of the outlet (especially at high customer touch-point areas)
> Periodic disinfection of all customer/prospect related vehicles (e.g. Showroom Display, Demo, New Car Handover, Repaired Cars). Test drive cars will be disinfected before and after every test drive in the presence of the customer.
> Promotion of good hygiene practises (e.g. display of safety and health information on table standee, leaflets and posters)


Teacher wins Beetle in VW's 'Win the Icon' contest

Rizal receiving the Beetle from Winter.
KUALA LUMPUR: A teacher has won the Volkswagen “Win the Icon” contest, taking home the grand prize of a Beetle 1.2TSI.

Muhamad Rizal Sadiman, 28, a secondary school teacher from Perak received his prize from Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia managing director Erik Winter.

The contest which ran from Oct 1-Nov 30 saw over 800 posts and submissions of photos and videos of Malaysians test driving their favourite Volkswagen models while documenting their experience.

Participants were to caption their submissions creatively with the hashtag #BetterExperiencedThanExplained.

Rizal submitted a video of him test-driving the Polo and Tiguan.

“A Volkswagen is truly better experienced than explained. Safety is a top priority for me as I was involved in an accident two years ago where the brakes failed," he said.

"In my submission video, I showcased how the Tiguan performs during emergency braking and I am very impressed. The Polo is another favourite as we had one in the family and it is a sturdy pocket rocket. I am so thrilled and excited with this win. I can’t wait to drive my new Beetle around town and to school.”


Land Rover Discovery debuts in Malaysia at RM730K

                PETALING JAYA: Jaguar Land Rover (Malaysia) has quietly rolled out the new Discovery to the Malaysian market today.

The fifth-generation model can accommodate seven people with three rows of seats.

Priced at RM729,800 (, the new Discovery comes with a five-year warranty and free service as well as 3 years of complimentary roadside assist. Price is inclusive of 6% GST but excludes road tax, registration and insurance.

The first five customers to buy the new Discovery will get a RM5,000 accessory voucher. Genuine Land Rover accessories are also covered by a 12-month warranty. Accessories fitted within one month or 1,600km (whichever comes first) of the handover of the new Discovery will be covered by the vehicle warranty.

In conjunction with the official launch of the new Discovery, Jaguar Land Rover Malaysia will be organising a "Discovery Day" on Jan 13-14 at Sime Darby Auto Connexion Petaling Jaya and SISMA Auto Glenmarie and also at SISMA Auto Penang on Jan 20-21. The event is by invitation only. Interested customers can call the respective showrooms to register their interest.

This three-row, seven-seat SUV that measures 4,970mm long, 2,220mm wide (mirrors out) and 1,846mm tall, is touted as the ultimate family and active lifestyle companion.

At the front, the new Discovery’s sculpted surfaces, jewel-like headlamps and a faster windscreen angle break the Discovery tradition and the state-of-the-art daytime running lamps deliver a modern appearance with a fresh light signature.

At the back, the LED rear lamps have a horizontal emphasis, giving New Discovery a more sporty appearance, while the new one-piece tailgate delivers a more dynamic rear design.

Land Rover’s aluminium full-sized SUV platform delivers a lightweight but durable architecture that contributes to lower CO2 emissions and improved fuel economy, as well as enhancing its dynamic abilities. This lightweight monocoque body construction is made up of 85% aluminium – 43% recycled – and is a significant 480kg lighter than before.

The Discovery’s trademark stadium seating is accommodated by its distinctive stepped roof that ensures all passengers enjoy excellent forward visibility and long-haul comfort.

The new Discovery also offers the driver, driving confidence due to the raised Command Driving Position, simple controls and enhanced chassis technology. The vehicle comes with steering wheel-mounted shift paddles. It is also equipped with InControl Touch Pro, which provides greater connectivity than ever before including access to a range of apps, satellite navigation as well as vehicle controls through the updated 10-inch high-resolution touchscreen display.

The Powered Inner Tailgate incorporates an additional fold-down section that deploys when the tailgate is opened. A button inside the load area can then be used to lower the Powered Inner Tailgate section.

The deployed 285mm long tailgate serves as impromptu event seating and is able to support a maximum load of 300kg, making it the perfect place to enjoy a tailgate picnic or to change out of muddy boots – under the shelter of the tailgate.

Just like the the Jaguar F-PACE, an Activity Key is offered as an optional accessory. The key allows owners to lock and unlock the vehicle without the need to carry a conventional key fob. It is designed as a durable wristband to be worn during outdoor activities.

Powered by a 254hp/600Nm 3.0-litre V6 diesel engine, badged Td6, the single-turbo engine features low-pressure exhaust recirculation, a two-stage oil pump and revised fuel-injector nozzle for improved responses, refinement and efficiency. The engine delivers stronger performance than before and the benchmark 0-100kph sprint takes only 8.1 seconds – a reduction of 1.3 seconds.

The engine uses a ZF eight-speed automatic gearbox that has been engineered by the powertrain experts at Land Rover to combine smooth shifts with sharp responses and optimised fuel efficiency.

For offroading, the new Discovery is offered with a two-speed transfer box, providing selectable high and low range gears for optimum on-road and off-road performance. The intelligent system provides a standard 50/50 torque split between front and rear wheels, while the two-speed fully synchronised ‘shift on the move’ system allows the driver to swap between high and low ratios without having to stop the vehicle, at speeds of up to 60kph.

In addition, an available four-corner air suspension system in the new Discovery that improves ride quality when driving on-road also provides greater capability when off-roading.


Peugeot 208 GTi for 2017 at RM143,888

                KUALA LUMPUR: Nasim Sdn Bhd, the official distributor of the Peugeot brand in Malaysia, has introduced the new Peugeot 208 GTi at RM143,888 on-the-road.

“Since we first introduced the 208 GTi to the Malaysian market in 2013, it has been one of our top sellers hot hatch market in Malaysia. We strongly believe, the new 208 GTi with its new upgraded engine to 208 hp will reinvigorate the sporting passion in the performance hatch segment. Despite the increase in forex, we have managed to keep the pricing of the new 208 GTi competitive at RM143,888 on the road complete with insurance,” said Datuk Samson Anand George, group chief operating officer (automotive group), Naza Corp Holdings Sdn Bhd.

The new 208 GTi is powered by 208hp 1.6-litre THP (Turbo High Pressure) petrol engine, 8hp more than before and the engine produces 300Nm of torque, a good 25Nm bump compared to the predecessor.

Combined with the 6-speed mechanical gearbox, it can accelerate from 0-100km/h in 6.5 seconds onwards to a top speed of 230km/h.

With its finely adjusted undercarriage (Pseudo McPherson at the front, torsion beam at the back), the new 208 GTi is agile and precise.

The front face has Peugeot’s exclusive light signature that consist of LED daytime running lights for indicators and daytime lighting and the rear LED claw effect tail light ensuring good visibility in all conditions.

Climb into the Peugeot i-Cockpit and check out a 7-inch colour touchscreen, which comes as standard and gives you access to the navigation system, a USB port for listening to music or charging your devices, and a Bluetooth connection.

The seats are upholstered in Club Nappa leather with Caro Weave fabric finish.

With perforated discs, 302mm diameter at the front and 249mm at the back, the braking system of the new 208 GTi gives you security.

Safety features include Stability Control, Traction Control, ABS, EBA and EBFD.

It comes with the latest-generation Electronic Stability Program (ESP), which is able to detect the first signs of a sideways skid and helps reduce over steer.

Passive safety features include 6 airbags, front pre-tensioning seatbelts, seatbelt fastening warning system and a collapsible steering column.

The New Peugeot 208 GTi is available in Digital White and Rogue Red, and comes with a 5-year warranty or up to 120,000km (whichever comes first).

All Peugeot models come with five-year warranty together with Nasim’s 3-years complimentary 24-hour Peugeot Roadside Assistance service, exclusive access to the Peugeot Lounge at Subang Airport and Peugeot Privilege membership.


When to watch the premieres that were supposed to take place at the Geneva Motor Show

                PARIS: Since the 2020 Geneva Motor Show was cancelled last week, a slew of vehicle manufacturers have announced over the past few days that, in response, they will be showing off their new cars and tech digitally instead.

Here's a summary of when you can watch what were supposed to be some of the biggest reveals in Switzerland this year.

Audi

Audi will be unveiling the new A3 Sportback on March 3 at 8:50am GMT. The Sportback iteration of the model is expected to debut while a sedan version will make an appearance later this year.

Bentley

Bentley will host a digital press conference to unveil the Mulliner Bacalar on March 3 at 8:30am GMT. The model will be the second two-seater made by the company during years.

BMW

BMW will be premiering the i4 concept car on March 3 at 7:15am GMT. While the i4 is just an all-electric concept model, it previews a production model that we could see in the near future.

Honda

Honda has scheduled its Geneva presentation for March 3 at 8:00am GMT. The company stated that it will be showcasing its "e:TECHNOLOGY range of electrified and connected technologies" alongside the new Jazz and Jazz Crosstar.

McLaren

McLaren scheduled its online press conference for March 3 at 8:30am GMT. The online event will be hosted by company CEO Mike Flewitt who will reveal a brand-new mystery supercar.

Mercedes-Benz

Mercedes-Benz is to reveal an updated E-Class sedan on March 3 at 7:45am GMT. In addition to the world premiere of the new E-Class taking place online, the company will also digitally outline their electrification and sustainability plans.

Volkswagen

Volkswagen will be presenting a new Touareg and the eighth-generation Golf GTI on March 3 at 8:10am GMT. The new Touareg will be the first in the model's history to have an electrified powertrain.

All events will be held online so that the hundreds of thousands of visitors who planned on attending the show can view from the safety of their own home.


Mazda charity golf raises RM303,000 for haemodialysis fund

                SHAH ALAM: Bermaz Motor today held its sixth Mazda Charity Golf Tournament and raised RM303,000 for the Mazda Medicare Fund with the support of generous golfers and donors.

The tournament was held at the Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah Golf & Country Club here. The fund was set up to provide life-saving haemodialysis treatment for end-stage renal disease patients with financial constraints.

Eligible patients would receive subsidised haemodialysis treatments at any one of B. Braun’s dialysis centres in Malaysia. While the fund’s main aim is to offer medical aid to those in need, it also provides financial support to charitable homes. Earlier this year, the Mazda Privilege Card was launched with the fund where all sign-up fees by Mazda owners are donated to it.

Bermaz Motor said homes that qualify for aid have been vetted by the fund to ensure they put all donations to good use. The fund is run by Bermaz volunteer employees.


Fuel subsidy structure hurts rural Sarawakians, says NGO

                MIRI: The fuel subsidy structure under the 2019 Budget that only provides for cars with an engine capacity of 1,500cc and below will leave many rural Sarawakians in the lurch.

The Federation of Orang Ulu Sarawak slammed the budget for being insensitive to the situation faced by rural folk.

They said four-wheel drive vehicles have to be used for their daily travel because of the rough terrain, but under the new budget, these will not qualify for subsidised fuel.

They aimed criticism at Finance Minister Lim Guan Eng for not consulting Sarawakians on the issue.

"In rural Sarawak, we need to use four-wheel drive vehicles that are at least 2,500cc in order to ply the tough and rough mountainous and hilly terrain.

"This cut in fuel subsidies will hurt us rural Sarawakians in a big way," said Gala.

There are about one million Sarawakians living in rural longhouses out of Sarawak's three million population.

Most depend on four-wheel drive vehicles to travel in and out of rural areas.

Under the 2019 Budget, only vehicles with engine capacities of 1,500cc and below and motorcycles of 125cc and below qualify for a limited amount of subsidised fuel per month.

In previous budgets, there was no cap on the engine capacity of vehicles entitled to subsidised fuel.


Toyota rebrands, expands venture fund to include climate change

                TOKYO: Toyota Motor Corp is rebranding its corporate investment arm as Toyota Ventures and adding two early-stage funds, including one focused on investing in startups developing solutions for climate change and carbon neutrality.

The Japanese automaker is beefing up its four-year-old investment arm, formerly known as Toyota AI Ventures, with the addition of the US$150 million Frontier Fund and the US$150 million Climate Fund, Toyota said on Thursday, boosting total assets under management to more than US$500 million.

The Frontier Fund will continue to invest in such areas as artificial intelligence, automated vehicles, cloud computing and robotics, while expanding its purview to include smart cities, digital health, fintech, materials and energy, the company said.

The Climate Fund will be focused on technologies and companies working on accelerating carbon dioxide reduction.

"We think there's going to be a tremendous amount of disruptive innovation in these areas," especially at startup companies, said Jim Adler, founding managing director of Toyota Ventures.

"Toyota wants us to look outside, into the startup community where companies are chasing the same kinds of goals as Toyota - lowering the carbon footprint and getting to carbon-neutral."

Toyota's venture arm, since its founding in 2017, has invested in nearly 40 startups in a variety of sectors, from e-scooters to self-driving shuttles.

The venture group also has co-invested in several startups with the venture arms of BMW AG, Hyundai Motor Co, Airbus SE and Intel Corp.

Toyota has a second, newer venture arm called Woven Capital, which works with the company's Woven Planet team on future transportation strategy and investments.

Adler said Toyota Ventures will continue to focus its investments on early-stage companies, while Woven Capital aims to fund more mature growth-stage companies.


Smoking at the wheel is dangerous. Here's why

Smoking while driving is not only dangerous because of second-hand smoke for passengers, but also because the driver could be distracted. — Reuters
BERLIN: In many countries around the world, talking on your phone while driving without a hands-free device can lead to steep fines and penalty points on your licence – and the legislation is only getting stricter.

In Germany, for example, briefly looking at a smartphone in your hand to check the time or taking it out of your pocket because it's uncomfortable are also punishable by law.

Even so, other activities are still allowed: A big bite out of a sandwich, a long sip of water to quench your thirst, operating your GPS on the dashboard or taking a long drag off a cigarette don't usually bring the driver any legal trouble.

But even if these are all permitted, are they still safe?

For some safety experts, smoking at the wheel is a particularly contentious issue.

"There is no outright smoking ban in Germany," says Anja Smetanin, of Auto Club Europa (ACE), "but it would be a good thing. Child passengers suffer a lot from second-hand smoke."

Other countries have already recognised this and have adopted corresponding laws.

In Greece and France, for example, smoking is banned in cars with passengers under the age of 12. "In the UK, the ban even applies to children and adolescents up to the age of 18," explains Smetanin.

In Italy, smoking is also prohibited when a pregnant person is in the vehicle, adds Christian Janeczek of the German Lawyers' Association.

However, smoking while driving is not only dangerous because of second-hand smoke for passengers, but also because the driver could be distracted.

"It's especially dangerous when a driver lights a cigarette and turns his eyes away from the road," says Smetanin.

Smoking embers that fall on floor mats or seat upholstery are also a fire hazard. "In an attempt to rescue their car's upholstery from more damage and extinguish any smoke, many drivers have lost control of their vehicle," she says.

In these cases, full liability insurance still applies. "The victim gets full coverage and the smoker won't have recourse to challenge this," says Kathrin Jarosch from the German Insurance Association. The same applies for a driver who is eating or drinking.

Many heavy smokers have a hard time laying off cigarettes on long trips. Here, Smetanin advises taking more frequent breaks at rest areas. Drivers could additionally, or as an alternative, use nicotine patches or chewing gum.

However, if you stop at a rest area with a petrol station, remember that embers can quickly cause a fire.

Since flammable vapours could go well beyond the actual filling station, smoking is usually banned for the entire service station area, says Janeczek, "unless a smoking area has been established by the operator."

Just a spark can also cause major problems in fields, meadows and forests depending on the season.

"If you smoke, go ahead, but you should not throw cigarettes out the car window for the sake of convenience," says Carsten Pix, from the German Fire Brigade Association.

In dry conditions, small roadside pebble fires are most often caused by discarded cigarette butts. "These are the black areas that you often see on the sides of the roads," says Pix.

But large forest fires have also been triggered by cigarettes, and improper disposal of butts is not a trivial offence.

"Those who throw a cigarette out of the car could be guilty of unlawful waste disposal," says Janeczek, which is usually accompanied by a modest fine.

If, however, a fire occurs, this could imply negligent arson, which, as Janeczek notes, "is punishable by a large fine or even imprisonment."


Proton Digital Xperience centre opens

                KUALA LUMPUR: ACO Tech, a company within the Proton Group that is also jointly owned by Altel and ECARX, today unveiled the country’s first automotive digital experience centre, Proton Digital Xperience (Proton DX).

Its centre at Quill City Mall along Jalan Sultan Ismail here was opened by Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Chang Lih Kang.

Also present at the launch were Proton chairman Tan Sri Syed Faisal Albar, Proton chief executive officer Dr Li Chunrong, Proton deputy chief executive officer Roslan Abdullah, ACO Tech chief executive officer Li Pu and China Construction Bank Malaysia chief executive officer Wang Qijie.

Proton DX is a centre for car and technology enthusiasts of all ages to gather and be immersed in the latest innovations in the automotive industry.

It also aspires to serve as an engaging platform for Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education and spark interest in the field among the younger generation.

The centre covers 5,275 sq ft and houses six zones for a blend of interactive technology, leisure, and lifestyle elements to create a unique experiential centre.

Its main highlight is the Virtual Cockpit, where visitors can enjoy a virtual drive in an enclosed theatre-like dome to experience smart mobility.

Proton DX also features the Activity Zone, an interactive space where visitors can enjoy stimulating motion-sensing games individually or with family and friends.

The Activity Zone will also be utilised as a space for collaborative events that align with the tagline on the wall: “Let’s Shape the Future of Mobility”.

Also available is the Aico Café, an area curated for visitors to relax and unwind with their favourite beverages and pastries as well as exclusive merchandise developed from Proton DX and Joma collaboration.

With a growing preference for online purchases, ACO Tech enables motoring enthusiasts to purchase selected products which are available on their Atlas Auto mobile application.

Customers can also have a hands-on experience with the products prior to placing an order at the centre’s Atlas Mall.

Other official merchandise from brands under the Geely Group such as Lynk & Co and Zeekr are also on display at the centre.

Proton DX also has a special car delivery service with its dedicated Delivery Bay to add an extra level of excitement for special Proton customers receiving their new rides.

Li said the centre offers an immersive space for everyone to learn about the innovative technologies that go into an automobile and at the same time, provide an experience that goes beyond being on the road.

“Smart mobility in the automotive industry is evolving at an accelerated pace. We are passionate about providing solutions that enhance the driving experience, to make every drive a good one for Malaysians.

“In our efforts to lead the smart mobility industry, we hope to make Proton DX a platform for STEM education. This is part of our commitment to raise the level of technological awareness and knowledge of the nation,” he said.

Proton DX was developed by ACO Tech in collaboration with Proton and China Construction Bank.

The centre opens daily from 10am to 10pm.

More information about Proton DX and ACO Tech is available on their official website or Facebook or Instagram pages.


Traffic summons syndicate involving RM5mil in bribes among high-profile cases MACC solved

                PETALING JAYA: Eleven suspects, some of whom are enforcement agency personnel, were arrested in October 2022 on suspicion of being involved in a syndicate offering to reduce compound fines for traffic summonses, says the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC).

MACC special operations division senior director Datuk Tan Kang Sai said in a statement today that the suspects were caught following investigations into the syndicate that they believe had been active since 2016, involving around RM5mill in bribes.

Busting this syndicate was among the high-profile cases that the MACC had successfully investigated, he said.

"These cases attract the attention of the public because the individuals involved are not low-ranking officers but involve senior officers who accepted bribes," he said.

He also urged the public to be the eyes and ears of the MACC.

"The public should not be afraid to report any corruption to the MACC as we will ensure their anonymity. Identities of informants are protected and cannot be revealed to any parties in any situation under the Whistleblowers Protection Act 2010," he said.


Polestar x Alexander Stutterheim

                LONDON: Swedish electric performance car brand, Polestar, has announced its collaboration with fashion designer Alexander Stutterheim.

Alexander Stutterheim is the founder of the eponymous raincoat brand that took the world by storm when launched in 2011, as well as his latest adventure, John Sterner.

John Sterner is a slow fashion knitwear brand with its entire supply chain and manufacturing facility located in one area, on a small wind-battered island of Öland - off the Swedish coast.

On a simple patch of land, Stutterheim keeps a flock of sheep and right next to it is his “Flagsheep" store.

The wool is turned into timeless iconic pieces of warm cosy knitwear that's perfect as holiday season gifts.

With strict Covid regulations on visiting shops in Sweden in place, Stutterheim decided to offer personal home deliveries to customers who ordered clothes from his online shop and while looking for a sustainable way of doing so, he approached Polestar.

This led to the Wool Express - a fully charged Polestar 2 which left Öland last week with a trunk full of woolly scarves and jumpers, headed for customers in the Swedish capital.

Stutterheim places emphasis on “slow fashion”: locally sourced materials, timeless design, respect for the environment, attention to detail and more mindful consumption. “We’re trying to be an open, holistic brand,” he says of his eco-luxury knitwear line, “one that challenges the mass production industry’s values.”

This appreciation for detail, timelessness, and greater sustainability is what led Stutterheim to Polestar in the first place. Looking for a greener method to deliver products to customers, Polestar’s design-led sustainability ethos echoed with his values. Polestar believes that open collaboration leads to innovation.

“At Polestar, we challenge the old notions of what premium means in the car industry. In Polestar 2 you’ll find vegan WeaveTech upholstery and reconstructed wood instead of leather and chrome, but we also hold our entire supply chain to high standards to address sustainability in all directions,” said Polestar design head Maximilian Missoni.

Polestar believes that designing timeless products to have a longer life cycle will reduce consumption and prolong a product’s usability, whether in automotive or in fashion.


BMW's Art of Leadership short films

                MUNICH: Here's one way to kill time during the MCO period. The BMW Group and CNN International Commercial (CNNIC) have teamed up to portray the stories and attitude of some of the most remarkable creatives, artists and leaders of our time through two unique series comprising a total of eleven short films exploring “The Art of Leadership”.

By focusing on the personal stories that drove exceptional individuals in their field to inspire modern society, each film in the series will embody core leadership values of BMW: responsibility, inner strength and independence. Values also inherent to BMW´s luxury car suite – BMW’s X7, 7, 8 und M8 Series.

On Thursday, CNN kicked off a six-part branded content series by launching the first brand film produced by CNNIC’s award-winning in-house studio Create.

This and the other upcoming brand films produced by Create are shot and edited for global distribution on a mix of CNN International’s platforms across TV, digital, and social, Great Big Story and will also be featured on BMW’s central brand website.

This first film portrays one of the most successful DJ duos and electronic music producers in the world, Dimitri Vegas & Like Mike.

Set against the backdrop of one of their concerts in Norway, the Belgian brothers recall how they became leaders in their field, reflecting on their passion and the relationship with their audience.

“BMW has a long and diverse history of projects that provide platforms and stages for creative minds and bold new voices - be it in design, art, sports or engineering. We see it as one of our missions - and have always done so, to enable and nurture transformation.

"These stories are the result of a perfect match between two entities which share the same values and goals. We are absolutely delighted that CNN and BMW work together to create these unique pieces about exceptional people, who are rethinking and redefining leadership. As we are always striving for excellence, we strongly believe this partnership is a milestone for both of us.” said Jens Thiemer, Senior Vice President Customer and Brand BMW.


Michelin LTX Trail introduced

                KUALA LUMPUR: Michelin in Malaysia has launched the Michelin LTX Trail on- and off-road tyre specifically designed for high-rise pick-up trucks and sports utility vehicles (SUVs).

The tyre offers extended lifespan, long-lasting safety with excellent wet braking performance even when worn, and lower interior noise levels for a more comfortable ride.

This versatile tyre performs well on both paved and unpaved roads, and promises drivers with greater safely and with confidence no matter the terrain.

Among its major advantages are:

• 41% longer mileage with the RallyForce Tread Compound that provides better durability and maximum service life for both on- and off-road use.
Also has a new tread design with the Biting Shoulder that wraps from the tread down the sidewall, to protect against sidewall aggression and ensure greater off-road performance and traction.

• Long-lasting safety, even when worn, with Variable Thickness Sipes that provide improved contact patch for better handling, grip and braking performance.
On wet roads, when compared to its premium competitors, the LTX Trail stops 3.1m shorter when new, and 4.6m shorter when worn.
On dry roads, when new, it stops 3.8m shorter.

• 19.8% lower sound pressure level, thanks to Duo-Harmony Blocks featuring two different block shapes in the tread's centre that spread the pattern noise energy across a wider spectrum, for a quieter and calmer driving experience.

Michelin Malaysia, Singapore and Brunei managing director Oliver Biggart said the new Michelin LTX Trail is a great match for the increasing popularity of SUVs, which is projected to grow 5.6% year-on-year, from 2021 to 2026.

“Perfect for consumers who own 4X2 and 4X4 high-rise pick-ups, as well as SUVs such as Toyota Hilux, Toyota Fortuner, and Nissan Navara, these tyres also cater to those whose lifestyle demands the ability to reach on- and off-road destinations, for work or pleasure.

“We are confident that the new LTX Trail gives drivers in Malaysia a safe and comfortable ride on the road, across a variety of terrain – ranging from city commuting, wet road, highway driving, to light and moderate off-road.

“At Michelin, we are constantly innovating to enable people to move around more freely, safely; and to live a better life in motion,” he said.

In Malaysia, the LTX Trail is now available in nine sizes, with rim dimensions ranging between 15 and 18 inches.

It's available at Michelin authorised tyre dealers across the nation and visit https://www.michelin.com.my/auto/tyres/michelin-ltx-trail for more details.


Bringing cleaner air to tomorrow's car interiors

                GOTHENBURG: Whether for protection from pollution or viruses, or to reassure passengers in the event of long trips or carpooling, car users are becoming increasingly aware of the quality of the air inside vehicles.

Manufacturers are capitalising on this, and are stepping up their efforts to offer solutions.

The latest in line is Volvo, which recently unveiled its sophisticated new air purification technology, designed to meet the needs of all those who suffer from allergies and asthma or are sensitive to air pollution.

The idea is that all passengers of these future models will benefit from clean air to breathe during their entire journey.

This air purification system (CleanZone Advanced) will soon be offered as an option for new models in the automaker's 60 and 90 series.

It promises to remove up to 99.9% of grass, tree and herbaceous pollen allergens from incoming air.

More generally, this solution will also remove up to 95% of PM2.5 fine particles, including most airborne viruses, thanks to a synthetic fibre filter and an ionisation process.

Moreover, the majority of models leaving Volvo's factory today are equipped with a pollen level and outdoor air quality indicator, which can be seen on the vehicle's central screen.

But Volvo is far from being the only manufacturer introducing this kind of technology.

Last year, Hyundai released news of a completely different air purification system, directly inspired by the aeronautics industry and the sophisticated air flow management systems installed onboard aircraft.

In addition, an ultraviolet radiation sterilisation system is activated once passengers exit the vehicle. Sterilisation lamps are then used to eliminate bacteria and potential viruses from the cabin, including the control stick, the first row seat storage drawer and the speakers.

As such, the air we breathe in the cars of the future looks set to be cleaner than ever.


Honda and Hitachi to merge four car parts makers, says Yomiuri

                TOKYO: Honda Motor Co. and Hitachi Ltd. are discussing a merger of four of their car parts businesses to create a components supplier with almost US$17 billion (RM71bil) in sales, joining the wave of partnerships sweeping across the global auto industry.

Shares of the parts makers soared after Honda, Japan’s second-biggest carmaker, said it would make a decision on the deal today. Hitachi said it will discuss the matter at a board meeting. The units to be combined include Hitachi Automotive Systems and Honda affiliates Keihin Corp., Showa Corp. and Nissin Kogyo Co., the Yomiuri newspaper reported earlier.

Faced with tectonic shifts such as electric vehicles and autonomous driving, automakers and their suppliers have been seeking allies to pool resources and know-how.

Overnight, news broke that Fiat Chrysler Automobiles NV and French carmaker PSA Group are were exploring a combination, and last month Toyota boosted its stake in Subaru Corp. Slumping demand for conventional vehicles and uncertainty over which technologies and business will prevail is forcing them to partner at a faster pace, according to Tatsuo Yoshida, an analyst at Bloomberg Intelligence.

"Honda and its affiliates have been slower to make moves compared with the Toyota group, so this will help them to catch up,” Yoshida said. "Automakers cannot wait any longer to develop technologies in new fields.”

Hitachi Automotive Systems began testing autonomous and connected cars in North America in 2015 in simulated urban environments and began verification of the systems on ordinary roads in Japan last year. The company makes autonomous driving electronic control units that combine sensors and cameras that work with chassis components. It also supplies more conventional parts like power steering pumps, brake pads and ignition coils to carmakers.

Keihin shares jumped 21%, the daily limit and their most on record. The manufacturer supplies electrification systems for hybrid and electric vehicles along with valves and controls for fuel cell vehicles. It also makes conventional engine components including management systems for natural gas vehicles.

Showa manufactures differential gears, shafts and other drivetrain components along with shock absorbers and steering systems. It’s stock surged 19% and Nissin Kogyo, which makes brakes and engine mounts, soared 20% by midday in Tokyo.

"There might be more mergers among auto component makers seeking scale,” said Koji Endo, an analyst at SBI Securities. "Small auto part makers could merge together, or big manufacturers could actively buy small ones. Clearly we will see such moves in Japan and elsewhere in the world.”

The four-company combination would create a parts maker with about 1.8 trillion yen (RM69bil) in sales, compared with Japan-based Denso Corp., a Toyota affiliate that had sales of 5.3 trillion yen (RM204bil) in the year ended March and Aisin Seiki Co., which had about 4 trillion yen (RM154bil).

Hitachi Automotive Systems had sales of 971 billion yen(RM3.7bil) in the year ended March, while Keihin, Nissin Kogyo and Showa combined had about 825.6 billion yen (RM3.2bil).

The parent Hitachi, which makes everything from nuclear power equipment to telecommunications gear and construction machinery, counted on automotive systems for about 19% of earnings last fiscal year. The conglomerate been selling off and merging non-core units as it focuses on growth from information technology systems.

Nissin Kogyo and Showa count on Honda for more than half of their revenue, while also supplying carmakers including Suzuki Motor Corp., Mazda Motor Corp. and Subaru Corp., according to data compiled by Bloomberg. Keihin is more dependent on its affiliate, relying on Honda for 85% of sales, while also supplying some to Volkswagen AG, Ford Motor Co. and Daimler AG, the data show.

Both Honda and Toyota have cut their profit and sales forecasts for the current fiscal year as demand in the US and China, the two biggest export markets, has been worse than projected.


Hyundai Mobis develops world's first 'Clusterless HUD'

                SEOUL: Hyundai Mobis has announced that it has developed the world's first "Clusterless HUD", which integrates the functions of the cluster and the HUD (Heads-Up Display).

Entering the era of full-scale electric vehicles, the use of the interior space of the vehicle has become ever more important. As a response to this, Hyundai Mobis has introduced its new display technology, which has been optimised for autonomous driving and electrification.

The Clusterless HUD is a new cockpit technology that minimises driver distraction by distributing the various kinds of driving information displayed in the cluster to the HUD (Heads-Up Display) in front of the driver and AVNT (Audio, Video, Navigation and Telematics).

It is characterised by the fact that it raised the height of the driving information, which is required at all times, such as speed and RPM, to the driver's eye level.

In addition to the inherent driving assist functions of HUD, such as navigation, it has also greatly enhanced safety and convenience. It is said to have differentiated the design and enhanced the visibility of the driving information display. Other auxiliary driving information is displayed through AVNT.

The Clusterless HUD is divided into a total of four display areas, including three at the top, and one at the bottom.

The top display areas show the speed, RPM, ADAS-related information, and navigation information. The bottom display area shows basic vehicle information, such as the shift mode, temperature of the coolant, and distance to empty. It can also display the turn signal, system information warning lights, etc.

The Clusterless HUD has a 15-inch display, providing a much larger display area than existing products.


Germany to boost electric cars with 1 billion euro scheme

                BERLIN: Germany will subsidise electric car purchases to give a jolt to sluggish growth in the sector and help meet national climate goals with zero-emission mobility, the government said Wednesday.

Car buyers will receive 4,000 euros (RM18,000) when they choose a purely electric vehicle and 3,000 euros (RM13,470) for a plug-in hybrid, with the cost shared 50-50 between the public purse and car makers.

The programme starting next month aims to help Germany approach its goal of putting one million electric cars on the road by 2020 - up from just around 50,000 now out of Germany's 45 million cars.

So far, German auto giants Volkswagen, Daimler and BMW have signed up to it, but the programme is open to all national and foreign brands.

The government has budgeted 600 million euros (RM2.7bil)for the purchase subsidies, which are expected to run until 2019 at the latest.

The money will be disbursed on a first come, first served basis for cars priced no higher than 60,000 euros (RM270,000), said Finance Minister Wolfgang Schaeuble.

"If you want one, buy it quickly," he said at a Berlin press conference on Wednesday.

The government has also budgeted 300 million euros (RM1.3bil) to speed up building the infrastructure of electric car charging stations in cities and on Autobahn highway stops.

Another 100 million euros (RM4.5bil) would go towards buying electric cars for federal government fleets.

Overall, the one-billion-euro government programme should subsidise 400,000 electric cars and boost the segment to the point where the e-car becomes "mass market capable", said Vice Chancellor and Economy Minister Sigmar Gabriel at the same press event.

Critics have asked why auto companies that already make billions in profits - and especially embattled VW, gripped by the global emissions cheating scandal - should benefit from public subsidies.

Gabriel said the programme, which follows similar schemes in Norway and the Netherlands, would also help future-proof Germany's car sector in times of "the worldwide re-invention of individual mobility".

German car makers are now marketing some 30 electric models, many of them plug-in hybrid versions that can switch between a conventional petrol engine and batteries.

On the market are a BMW electric-only car, as well as Volkswagen's E-Golf and E-Up, several Daimler B-class models and a version of the Smart.

Audi plans to release an electric SUV in 2018, while luxury car maker Porsche has promised a "Mission E".

VW CEO Matthias Mueller said the new scheme was in the interest of motorists and the auto industry.

"The future belongs to electro-mobility," he said. "Together we are now laying the groundwork for this future to start more widely in Germany."

Germany, Europe's biggest economy, under its ambitious "energy transition" plans to largely switch from climate-harming carbon fuels to clean energy by the middle of the century.

It is phasing out nuclear power by 2022 and boosting wind, solar and other clean energy sources to meet 80 percent of its power needs by 2050.

Renewables such as wind, solar, water and biomass last year accounted for one third of electricity consumed in Germany.

However, the transport sector has been a laggard in Germany's energy shift, with electric cars so far making up less than one percent of vehicles on German roads.


E-transport boom could see first major European city go car-free in 2020

Either Amsterdam (shown here) or Oslo could become the first European city to go car-free in 2020. — Reuters
LONDON: Next year will see the first major European city to ban private cars, a leading tech investor has predicted, saying a boom in electric-powered bikes and scooters was driving a green “revolution”.

Norwegian capital Oslo and bike-friendly Amsterdam in the Netherlands are both candidates to become the first to go car-free in 2020, while France could follow in five years, said Martin Mignot of investment capital firm Index Ventures.

“People are just realising that congestion and pollution have reached a tipping point and that you can’t just add more roads – space is very finite and a private car is just not a very efficient way of moving people around,” he said.

“There is a genuine technological revolution ... Those(electric) vehicles are the missing link in the transport grid.”

Major cities including Paris, Bogota and Jakarta have experimented with car-free days in an effort to cut air pollution and open up streets usually dominated by traffic.

Meanwhile, a drop in the price of batteries has enabled the creation of a wide range of relatively affordable electric vehicles that open up the city to travellers, said Mignot.

Electric bikes and scooters for rent through companies such as Bird and Lime are now a common sight in many city centres and Mignot said they could fill gaps in public transport.

Index Ventures, an early backer of Skype which currently has some US$1.6 billion invested in funds, has put “a very fair amount” into mobility firms including Bird and Cowboy bikes, said Mignot, though he declined to give figures.

Mignot said the e-transport sector was still very young, with companies rapidly refining their products as they learn from their early years and the technology develops, while there was also a need for city infrastructure to evolve.

Experts on cities agreed that urban planners were moving away from private cars.

“I am confident that the first major European city will go completely car free, at least in the city centre, by 2020,” said Lucy Mahoney, a spokesman on walking and cycling for the C40 network of cities tackling climate change.
“Leading the way and demonstrating that going car free is the new norm will help alleviate the crippling pressures our cities face and rejuvenate urban spaces.”


Honda improves production workflow with ARC line

                TOKYO: Honda has developed the world’s first mass-production automobile assembly line with a main line that incorporates a flowing cell production system.

Honda has named this original assembly line the Assembly Revolution Cell (ARC) Line and introduced it to Honda’s new Prachinburi Plant in Thailand that became operational in March 2016. The plant is part of Honda Automobile (Thailand) Co, Ltd., Honda's automobile production and sales subsidiary in Thailand, and is located within the Rojana Industrial Park in Prachinburi Province.

The newly-developed ARC Line is a world’s first innovative and unique assembly line that is different from a conventional line production system and was developed by incorporating flowing cell production-style production units in the main line.

In production on a conventional line, which has been broadly adopted for automobile production to date, each production associate takes charge of a single process and installs parts to vehicle bodies flowing on a conveyor. In cell production, on the other hand, one production associate takes charge of a broader range of production processes and installs multiple parts.

In ARC Line production, four production associates get on board an ARC Unit, a unit of a conveyor that carries one vehicle body and a complete set of parts to be installed to the vehicle body, and assemble the vehicle while moving along the production line together with the vehicle. This system reduces any incidental movements by production associates – such as selecting the proper parts for the specifications of the next vehicle body coming down the line and installing them while walking along with the vehicle body.

These are not considered essential assembly movements but are inevitable in conventional production processes. The ARC Line production achieves a significant improvement in production efficiency through the reduction of such process loss.

Moreover, with ARC Line production, each production associate takes charge of a broader range of production processes, which makes it possible for associates to gain a broader range of production knowledge and skills.


Volvo EX30 electric SUV debuts with focus on affordability

                MILAN: Volvo Cars unveiled here today its new entry-level SUV, the Volvo EX30. The all-electric vehicle is the fourth EV from the Gothenburg, Sweden-based automaker and its lightest, smallest SUV to date.

With a starting price of 36,000 euros (RM178,000) , the EX30 notably does not charge a premium over internal combustion vehicles of similar power output.

It is expected to contribute significantly to Volvo’s profitability as the automaker moves to make half its wares fully electric by 2025 and to sell only EVs by 2030.

“We know that price and cost of ownership is still one of the biggest challenges when people consider switching to an electric car,” said Jim Rowan, Volvo’s chief executive officer, in a statement that noted the EX30 will probably become the brand’s bestseller.

On June 5, Volvo reported that global sales in May had increased 31% year over year to 60,398 units, a rise largely driven by the sale of EVs. In the first five months of 2023, sales jumped 14%, to 275,312 vehicles, compared with the same period in 2022.

The EX30 highlights the importance of safety systems and the 96-year-old company’s Swedish heritage.

One new feature helps prevent inadvertent impacts on cyclists, scooters or runners by alerting the driver when one is approaching.

A new Park Pilot Assist feature tackles parallel parking as well as parking in curved, perpendicular and diagonal spaces by using a 3D interface that operates the throttle, brakes and steering.

A human driver must still “supervise” the parking process, Volvo says.

The EX30 also includes as standard a special safety feature for bikes that helps to prevent so-called "dooring" accidents, by alerting you when you are about to open your door in front of a cyclist, scooter or runner.

Volvo is offering a choice of three powertrains for the EX30.

If you spend most of your time in the city or tend to travel shorter distances between charges, Volvo is offering a single-motor option with an LFP battery. The LFP standard-range battery, which uses lithium iron phosphate chemistry, is more cost-effective and less resource-intensive to produce, meaning it is the best option if you don’t need maximum range.

If you prefer to maximise range, the Single Motor Extended Range variant with an NMC extended-range battery is the EX30 of choice. The NMC battery features lithium, nickel, manganese and cobalt, and produces its energy more efficiently than the LFP variant. This single-motor, extended range option gives a range of up to 480km between charges.

If performance is the priority, a Twin Motor Performance variant is offered, which pairs the NMC battery with an additional second e-motor. This all-wheel drive variant of the EX30 provides 315kW (428hp) and takes the EX30 from 0-100kph in 3.6 seconds – it’s officially Volvo's fastest-accelerating car ever!

Owners will be able to charge their EX30 batteries from 10% to 80% in less than 30 minutes on a DC fast charger, Volvo says.

The extended-range Twin Motor variant has a charging capacity of up to 153kW, while the standard-range car has a capacity of 134kW.

Through the car’s centre display and app, you can set the amperage, maximum charging level and when you want to start charging.

Next year, the company will offer a Cross Country variant of the EX30.

It will have a range of additional features such as more ground clearance, unique skid-plates, 18-inch or 19-inch wheels, and a small Swedish flag badge mounted on the hood. Its pricing has yet to be announced.

“The fully electric EX30 might be our smallest ever SUV, but it’s a big deal for our customers and a big deal for us as a company,” said Rowan.

“We like to say the EX30 is small yet mighty, because it delivers on everything you’d want from a Volvo but in a smaller package. Like any Volvo, it’s an outstanding product which is safe and designed around people and their needs.” — With additional text from Volvo The EX30 Cross Country variant is coming.


Perodua's Tweckbot safety campaign returns

                RAWANG: Perodua will be providing a free 50-point safety check to all Perodua vehicles at selected locations in conjunction with Ramadan month and Raya celebrations.

Perodua is launching its second Tweckbot programme this year ahead of Ramadan to ensure Perodua vehicles travelling out of town are ready for the long journey.

The Tweckbot programme, introduced in 2011, was a first for Perodua whereby it engages its customers via social media to offer free safety inspections at specified time, date and locations.

The programme was modified during the Chinese New Year celebration this year to reach out to more Perodua owners by using both new and traditional media to announce the time and location of the Tweckbot team.

The Tweckbot team only inspects but do not do on-the-spot servicing. A 50-points safety check includes inspections on the engine, transmission, coolant and tyres. The team advises car owners on whether or not their vehicles need to be serviced or repaired. A 20 % discount for parts and accessories will be given to all those vehicles that return to authorised outlets.

Perodua president & CEO Datuk Aminar Rashid Salleh  said the Tweckbot 2015 Chinese New Year programme attracted nearly 500 Perodua owners to check their cars before and after the festivities.

“We hope our customers will participate in this programme and we hope that they will continue to drive safely and responsibly,” Aminar said.

The locations of the Tweckbot teams are:

Central region
June 12 -14 – Giant Shah Alam
July 31, Aug 1-2  --  Giant Shah Alam

East Coast region
June 12-14  – Kuantan Parade, Kuantan
July 30-31, Aug 1  - Giant Kuala Terengganu, Giant Gong Badak , Terengganu


Two plug-in hybrids expand 8th-gen VW Golf line-up

                WOLFSBURG: Volkswagen is electrifying the eighth generation of the Golf with two new plug-in hybrid versions: the Golf eHybrid and Golf GTE.

This means that no less than two Golf models are now available as plug-in hybrid models for the first time.

The Golf eHybrid is designed for maximum comfort and delivers an output of 204PS.

The Golf GTE offers outstandingly sporty performance, combining both power and efficiency with an output of 245PS.

The new Golf plug-in hybrid versions feature a 50%-higher energy capacity (13kWh) compared with the plug-in hybrid drive of the Golf Mk7. This allows a wider electric range.

The Golf eHybrid covers up to 80 kilometres fully electrically, while the Golf GTE boasts a locally zero emissions range of up to 62 kilometres.

For both cars, a 6-speed dual-clutch gearbox DSG comes as standard.

It features a Digital Cockpit Pro (digital instruments), “Discover Media” navigation system including streaming and Internet, DAB+, mobile phone interface with inductive charging function, voice control, Dynamic Road Sign Display, a multifunction leather steering wheel, sports comfort seats (eHybrid), Travel Assist for assisted driving up to 210kph (including Adaptive Cruise Control and Lane Assist lane keeping system), Front Assist Autonomous Emergency Braking, Air Care Climatronic automatic air conditioner, start/stop system with brake energy recuperation, V2X local warning system, new Keyless Start keyless comfort start function, LED Plus headlights and LED tail light clusters as well as alloy wheels.

The Golf GTE is additionally equipped with details such as customised bumpers as well as customised premium sports seats with integrated head restraints and an LED light strip in the radiator grille.


Google, Ford, Uber launch coalition to further self-driving cars

                WASHINGTON: Alphabet Inc's Google unit, Ford Motor Co, the ride-sharing service Uber and two other companies said on Tuesday they are forming a coalition to push for federal action to help speed self-driving cars to market.

Sweden-based Volvo Cars, which is owned by China's Zhejiang Geely Holding Group Co, and Uber rival Lyft also are part of the Self-Driving Coalition for Safer Streets. The group said in a statement it will "work with lawmakers, regulators and the public to realise the safety and societal benefits of self-driving vehicles."

The coalition said David Strickland, the former top official of the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the top US auto safety agency that is writing new guidance on self-driving cars, will be the coalition’s counsel and spokesman.

"What people are looking for is clear rules of the road of what needs to be done for (fully autonomous) vehicles to be on the road," Strickland said in an interview Tuesday, emphasising the companies want to deploy them safely. "Nobody wants to take a shortcut on this."

Strickland, who has advised Google on self-driving car issues, said the group is "a full policy and messaging campaign and movement" and not just about lobbying lawmakers or regulators.

In 2014 there were 32,675 fatalities and 2.3 million injured in 6.1 million crashes on US roads. NHTSA says about 94 percent of all traffic crashes are caused by human error.

On Wednesday, NHTSA is holding the second of two public forums on its self-driving car guidelines that will feature comments from tech companies and automakers at Stanford University.

NHTSA did not immediately return a message seeking comment on the coalition.

Ford said in a statement the group will "work together to advocate for policy solutions that will support the deployment of fully autonomous vehicles."

NHTSA hopes to release its guidance to states, policymakers and companies on self-driving vehicles in July.

California has proposed barring self-driving cars that do not have steering wheels, pedals and a licensed driver ready to take over in an emergency, which Google has opposed. Under current regulations, fully autonomous vehicles without human controls are not legal.

NHTSA administrator Mark Rosekind has said policymakers should avoid a "patchwork" of state regulations on self-driving cars but has not taken a position on California's proposal.

In February, NHTSA said the artificial intelligence system piloting a self-driving Google car could be considered the driver under federal law, a major step toward winning approval for autonomous vehicles.

The five companies, which all are working on self-driving cars, say one of the group's first tasks is to "work with civic organisations, municipalities and businesses to bring the vision of self-driving vehicles to America’s roads and highways."


2017 Honda CR-V in Thailand to get 9-speed auto and diesel engine

                BANGKOK: The 2017 Honda CR-V will get a 1.6L i-DTEC Turbo engine for the first time in Thailand together with a 9-speed automatic transmission.

To be launched in Thailand soon, the CR-V's 1.6L i-DTEC 4-cylinder turbo engine was developed by Honda’s engineering team in Japan under its “Earth Dreams Technology” concept.

It has a 2-stage Turbo system which produces a maximum power of 160hp at 4,000 rpm and maximum torque of 350Nm at 2,000 rpm and has a high fuel efficiency of 18.9km per litre.

Together with a 9-speed automatic transmission, this provides superior acceleration and Co2 emission rate of only 141 g/km.

Two months after its official launch in the USA, the all-new Honda CR-V received the “Best Compact SUV 2017” award.


Ferrari unveils F12tdf, a speed demon made for the road

MARANELLO: Ferrari has unveiled the F12tdf, which is a tribute to the Tour de France automobile road race, which the brand dominated in the 1950s and '60s with the 250 GT and 250 GTO.

The F12tdf has a V12 with 780hp, directly derived from that of the current F12berlinetta which delivers only 740hp. It can accelerate from 0 to 100kph in only 2.9s (and it takes less than 8s to get from 0 to 200kph) and has a top speed of 340kph. Ferrari says that this engine has been designed with advanced technology, taken directly from Formula 1, particularly in terms of the variable geometry intake trumpets.

This V12 has a double-clutch box, which helps with downshifts and boosts upshifts.

With its slightly wider front tyres, the F12tdf has a tendency to over-steer, meaning that the rear wheels slide in bends.

Designed by the Ferrari Design Centre, this F12tdf stands out from the F12berlinetta with its complex front bumpers inspired by competitive driving, with small wings on the side and a new rear diffuser.

With a production of 799 units, the F12tdf will be officially unveiled at the Mugello circuit in Italy as part of the Ferrari Challenge World Finals on Nov 8. Its price tag has not yet been disclosed, but it will no doubt top the minimum price of 270,000 euros for the F12berlinetta.


Facelifted BMW 3 Series driven in Germany

The latest BMW 3 Series reflects the well-grounded belief that when there is nothing wrong with it, don’t make any major visual changes, only subtle ones beneath the skin to enhance its sporty and dynamic persona and strengthen its foundation further.

In that respect, BMW appears to have certainly taken a page out of the general practice adopted by the Japanese carmakers in the late 70s and early 80s for its new 3 Series, in which a simple facelift would do.

What’s more important is that the new 3 Series carries the world premiere of the latest four-cylinder and six-cylinder petrol engines, which like the four-cylinder diesel units are sourced from the newly developed modular BMW EfficientDynamics engine family and feature BMW TwinPower Turbo technology.

READ ALSO: 5 highlights of new BMW 3 Series

Another important development is that the new 3 Series comes with a Plug-in Hybrid option and is the second BMW model after the X5 to be provided with such a variant; it’s called the 330e.

It is featured with a 2.0-litre 184hp (135kW) petrol engine and 80kW electric motor for a combined output of 252hp (185kW).

In performance, it accelerates to 100kph in 6.2 seconds, has a 225kph top speed and fuel consumption of 2.0L/100km or 50km per litre.

A third area of improvement lies in the suspension: the latest 3 Series comes with a stiffer suspension, more rigid body shell mounting and a more finely honed steering set-up for the Electric Power Steering.

And of course, the interior is said to portray an even classier impression with the use of new materials and chrome highlights for the controls, air vents and central control panel.

The fresh details in the exterior are provided in the new aprons in front with revised air intakes to accentuate the feeling of width while the sensor for the optional Active Cruise Control is ‘harmoniously integrated’ into the central air intake.

The headlamps and LED (light emitting diode) daytime running lights were also given updates in their design to underline the car’s sporty and powerful visual appeal.

For the rear perspective, the novel apron design and now standard LED lights are said to complement the front by emphasising the car’s width and its sporting appearance.

There are 11 engine options - three petrol and seven diesel variants for the new 3 Series; the former includes the entry-level 1.5-litre three-cylinder in the 318i, the new 2.0-litre four-cylinder engines in the 320i and 330i, and the new 3.0-litre in-line six for the 340i.

The diesel variants start with the 2.0-litre four-cylinder versions with different power chips in the 316d, 318d, 320d and 325d, and the 3.0-litre in-line six in the 330d and 335d.

Our drive from the BMW press centre in Garching, Munich to the hamlet of Achenkirch in Austria was in the range-topping 340i, which is a world debut for this variant that replaces the 335i.

BMW says the 340i is the first model in the entire BMW line-up to be powered by the all-new six-cylinder in-line engine from the new modular EfficientDynamics engine family.

The lightweight and rigid all-aluminium engine develops 326hp between 5,500 and 6,500rpm, a 20hp improvement over the previous model, and 450Nm of torque that is available from a very low 1,380rpm.

Mated to the engine is the eight-speed Steptronic automatic transmission that is also new; BMW says it has improved efficiency, wider gear spread and reduced torque converter slip during gear shifts to reduce CO2 (carbon dioxide) emissions by 3%.

The drive from Munich to Austria was supposed to cover more than 150km of highway and secondary routes, but for some reason, the 340i’s new ‘state-of-the-art’ navigation system led us through a shorter route.

Instead of the scenic and winding hilly routes, we were guided through the lowland townships that were teeming with summer holiday traffic.

We did get to feel a little of the new 3.0-litre in-line six power potential on our all-too-short autobahn drive and for the most part was crawling along with the holiday traffic in a slight drizzle.

And for those few instances where we could push just a little through a few bends here and there, and driving over the occasional potholes and road dips, the latest 340i seemed to hold up well to expectations.

 The popular E30 3 Series.

Needless to say, our hosts were a little surprised to see us arriving at the designated stop so early.

The bright note was that we got to choose a longer drive in one of the earlier 3 Series models.

We chose the E30 primarily because this was the first BMW model to be locally assembled in Malaysia, at the Pekan facility to be exact, in the early 1980s.

The 3 Series model made available for a comparison drive experience was a 320iS two-door car, which was tailored for the Italian market with its engine displacement tweaked to be below 2,000cc (to 1990cc) for tax reasons.

This short stroke four-cylinder BMW M Power engine model was the Italian M3 of the time; it delivered 192hp and 210Nm of torque, which was considered very powerful back in the day.

It must be remembered that the 3 Series models of the bygone era came without any dynamic assistance systems such as Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), Dynamic Traction Control (DTC), Cornering Brake Control (CBC) that are standard fitment in modern Bimmers; and there were certainly no airbags!

We drove it through 50km of winding secondary roads with surfaces in varying degrees of wetness and some dry patches.

It was a world of difference as we heard a lot more of the engine induction and exhaust throb when we revved it on the straight stretches.

The E30 didn’t seem to mind being pushed through a few tight bends that were relatively dry with the tyres squealing their protest, and it was more of an engaging drive as we were in control of the car without any electronic dynamic assistance.

The leather seats felt pretty good and the less refined interior gave this E30 a raw feel that was rugged but comfortable in its way.

If there is a constant character of the model that has evolved into the current range, it has to be its sporty and dynamic qualities.

This is the soul of the 3 Series which is widely accepted the world over and had helped the 3 Series account for 25% of all BMWs sold since its launch.


Bosch introduces the smart gas pedal

                STUTTGART: Bosch's latest creation is an accelerator pedal that provides haptic feedback through the driver's foot if he or she is being too heavy on gas.

One of the reasons that a car's quoted fuel consumption figures and the actual number of miles it manages to a gallon of fuel can be so disparate has nothing to do with software cheat devices. It's usually because no two people drive in exactly same way. And, according to Bosch, the difference between having a foot made of feathers and one made of lead is responsible to up to 25% of a vehicle's fuel use.

So to accelerate drivers' understanding of when to press on and when to lift off in order to conserve fuel, it has built a "smart" pedal.

"The Bosch active gas pedal helps drivers save fuel - and alerts them to potentially dangerous situations as well," said Stefan Seiberth, president of the Gasoline Systems division of Robert Bosch GmbH.

Gentle haptic feedback like that used on navigation touch screens so that drivers know they've made contact without taking their eyes off the road makes it clear when the line between rapidity and irresponsibility is being crossed. "The pedal tells the driver when the economy and acceleration curves intersect," explains Seiberth.

What's more, if the pedal is fitted to a car with the latest-generation sensors and assistance systems, it can also serve as an early warning system, prompting the driver if a bend is approaching and the car is currently traveling too quickly. It can also alert the driver if, for instance they're accidentally traveling the wrong way along a stretch of road or if there is an obstacle over the horizon. All through vibration.

There are less high-tech ways of cutting fuel consumption but they usually require an eco driving course and take time to develop into habits. Bosch claims that the active pedal alone is enough to cut both fuel consumption and CO2 emissions by 7%.

But that's just the start. If fitted to a hybrid vehicle, the pedal can prompt the driver as to the best time to coast -- i.e., roll without power from the combustion engine -- and can also give an alert when the combustion engine is needed again so that accelerator pressure can be increased accordingly for a smooth transition from electric to gasoline power.


BMW X4 is hyper-active fun

The compact BMW X4 takes on the winding roads of Northern Spain and does no fail to impress.
BMW introduced the X range of Sports Activity Vehicles (SAV) more than five years ago on a cautious note: it did not know how its potential customers would react to such models from a company that had specialised in producing sporty cars.Today, the X Series range make up more than 30% of BMW car sales and that is encouraging the German carmaker to expand the model line-up further.To promote the new 4 Series range, BMW obviously saw the opportunity to include an SAC (Sports Activity Coupe) model as well and the X4 is the result.As the name suggests, the SAC differs from the SAV in that it has a coupe profile and which BMW has tasted strong acceptance with the X6: it is a logical choice as the 4 Series is targeted at the niche segment that prefers visually exciting cars.With the X4, BMW customers now have the alternative of a smaller dimensioned SAC over the bigger X6.Surprisingly, we found the X4 a lot easier on the eyes than the X6.It was as if the coupe profile fitted in well with a smaller frame than a bigger one.The dimensional differences between the two models are significant: for starters, the X4 sits on a shorter wheelbase of 2,810mm as against the X6’s 2,933mm.Being an offshoot of the 3 Series range that includes the X3, the X4 is built on the X3 footprint and that means they share a common wheelbase.With a coupe body, the X4 has a 36mm lower profile and a 14mm longer body over the X3 to enhance its sporty appeal, while body width is the same. This lower body styling has the driver and front passenger sitting 20mm lower than the folks in the X3, while the rear passengers sit even lower by 28mm.Vehicle weight (kerb) is quite similar, varying between 1,735kg and 1,815kg for the petrol models.BMW recently organised an international media drive of the X4 in Bilbao, the Basque region in northern Spain that draws tourists with its contemporary art Guggenheim Museum.Originally a maritime centre for the inflow and outflow of goods and foodstuff, Bilbao with a population below 400,000 would not have enjoyed tourism were it not for the art museum that was inaugurated in late 1997.At the time of our visit, an entire floor was dedicated to the works of Yoko Ono, the widow of John Lennon.Our drive in the X4 began at the hotel located right in front of the Bilbao Guggenheim Museum.It was also just a stone’s throw down the road where Pierce Brosnan did a take of the James Bond movie ‘The World Is Not Enough’ in 1999 by scaling a building.Lest we digress further, our drive in the X4 covered more than 200km of mostly secondary roads that wound along the coastal front, up hilly areas and the countryside.The X4 provided for the international media drive was the top variant xDrive35i, powered by a 3.0-litre in-line six-cylinder engine.This straight-six engine might appear similar to that in the new M3 and M4 in specification but it has the TwinPower turbo technology with twin-scroll turbocharger.The difference in power to that from the specially designed and tuned M engine is clear: the X4 delivers a lot less at 306bhp from 5,800 to 6,400rpm and 400Nm from 1,200 to 5,000rpm (M power punches out 431bhp and 550Nm).Similarly, the transmission is also layman by comparison, being the eight-speed Steptronic automatic with Sport mode - the standard specification across the respective BMW models.Make no mistake about its performance though, as it is first and foremost a BMW and the X4 xDrive35i sprints to 100kph in a quick 5.5 seconds and a top speed of 247kph.While we got a feel of its gut acceleration when opportunity allowed, we did not tempt fate to experience the other extreme on Spanish roads.We came across a fair share of police road blocks in the countryside and we resisted all temptation to put our foot down on the highways and open stretches on secondary roads that had low traffic density.Having come fresh from driving the new M3 and M4, we noticed an immediate difference in the ride.The X4’s ride was firm as you would expect of a BMW but this was a comfortable sort of firmness that made travel on the secondary roads pleasant.We definitely did not experience the hard solid thumps of the M models.We took to the respective corners along the route quick enough to enjoy the thrill of driving the ‘intelligent’ all-wheel drive X4 dynamically.For a vehicle that is taller than a car, we did not feel much of the body leaning as we took to the winding areas, in particular a hilly section that gave us a lovely view of the countryside.Its compact body also made the X4 more manageable to drive at a good pace through narrow country roads and manoeuvre in Bilbao city.Despite the sharper taper of the roofline towards the rear, headroom for rear passengers is not bad and the upward opening rear door gives access to a generous 500 litres of luggage space.With the 40:20:40 split rear seat rests, one can fold them down respectively to accommodate the specific transport needs and there is a maximum of 1,400 litres of “flexible” space available.The main draw of the X4 is its compact frame should appeal to those who may find driving the X6 daunting or a bit too big for their driving pleasure.Nice things do come in smaller packages.


Panasonic seeks alliances in self-driving tech, says CEO

A Panasonic lithium-ion battery, which is part of Tesla Motor Inc's Model S and Model X battery packs, is pictured with the Tesla Motors logo. - Reuters
TOKYO: Panasonic Corp aims to extend its partnership with electric car maker Tesla Motors Inc beyond batteries and into self-driving technology, as the Japanese conglomerate continues to shift its focus to the automotive business.

The electronics maker has placed automotive applications at the center of a growth strategy that targets corporate clients at the expense of low-margin consumer goods, where low-cost Asian rivals have diminished the dominance of Japanese firms.

Panasonic is the exclusive supplier of batteries for Tesla's Model S, Model X and upcoming mass market Model 3, and plans to contribute $1.6 billion to Tesla's $5 billion battery factory.

"We are deeply interested in Tesla's self-driving system," Chief Executive Officer Kazuhiro Tsuga said in an interview on Thursday. "We are hoping to expand our collaboration by jointly developing devices for that, such as sensors."

One candidate would be so-called organic photoconductive film CMOS image sensors currently under development at Panasonic, which enable high-speed sensing of moving objects without distortion, Tsuga said.

Panasonic aims to add such technology to an automotive business that also includes cockpit displays and navigation systems. It targets annual sales of 2 trillion yen ($17.43 billion) for that business in the year through March 2019, from 1.3 trillion yen in the year ended March 2016.

As well as automotive, Panasonic and Tesla work together in solar energy. The Japanese firm last month said it plans to invest more than 30 billion yen in a Tesla factory making photovoltaic (PV) cells and modules.


Porsche unveils its sportiest Boxster and Cayman yet

                STUTTGART: With upgraded suspension, power output, a new differential and a serious boost in all-round performance compared with their predecessors, the new Porsche 718 Cayman GTS and 718 Boxster GTS might be enough to give even Porsche 911 owners second thoughts.

Now that purists are finally getting used to the idea of two compact Porsches with intelligently turbocharged four-cylinder, rather than the traditional flat-six naturally aspirated block at their core, Porsche has taken the wraps off the extra fun GTS iterations of the Boxster and its hardtop companion, the Cayman.

And regardless of your feelings towards the move towards smaller blocks and intercooling, on paper alone they should send more than a frisson of excitement through the Porsche-buying community.

The existing Cayman GTS was pound-for-pound one of the best performing, best handling 2-seat sportscars money could buy. And in true Porsche fashion the new models pick up where the old ones left off. In terms of vital engine statistics, that means a 2.5-litre, 365hp engine (that's 35hp improvement over the last-gen GTS), 430Nm of torque and a 0-100kph dash covered in just 4.1 seconds (when the car is specified with the PDK paddle-shift transmission).

What's more, to ensure that drivers enjoy the car right up to its 290kph limit, whether in soft-top or hard-top guise, the GTS comes with a manual six-speed transmission as standard plus torque-vectoring and a mechanical locking rear differential to share out power and grip to the wheel that needs it most as well as Porsche Active Suspension Management which drops ride height by 10mm.

For the first time, the GTS models also get the Porsche Chrono Package as standard, while cockpit toys include a centrally mounted analogue stopwatch, Alcantara-trimmed sports seats, complete with GTS logos on the headrests and increased lateral support for cornering at speed, an Alcantara-wrapped dashboard and steering wheel, and the Porsche Precision App for recording driving and improving on lap times.

On the outside, the GTS models stand out from their less potent brethren thanks to a unique front apron design, black trim elements including badges, tinted headlamps and tail lights and 20-inch black satin-finish alloy wheels.

The Porsche 718 Boxster GTS and Cayman GTS will be available to order from December. Prices in Europe will start from €76,137 (RM381,000) while in the US prices (excluding delivery, processing and handling charges) will begin at US$79,800 (RM338,000) for the Cayman GTS, rising to US$81,900 (RM346,000) for the Boxster.


Help pours in for family living in car

                GEORGE TOWN: Financial help and donations are pouring in for security guard Ganesh Sounderajah's family, including from celebrity preacher Ebit Lew who is helping them secure a rented three-bedroom house.

Lew has also bought them new electrical appliances such as a refrigerator, television, rice cooker and other household items.

He drove from Johor Baru on Christmas morning, and is expected to move the family to the rented home.

The preacher also volunteered to pay a month's rent if Ganesh is successful in getting a people's housing project (PPR) unit.

"Ganesh and his wife were very grateful for the help and very emotional and in tears," said Lew in his Facebook posting on Dec 25.

He said as he slept well and ate well, and could not accept the fact that there were people living in a car.

Ganesh, 33 and his wife Parameswari, 32, and their three children, aged between eight months to six years, lost their home in a fire in April and have been living in a 30-year-old Proton Saga Aeroback since they could not afford a home.

Ganesh, when contacted, thanked the media for highlighting his plight. He said he had even received calls from overseas from people enquiring how they could help.

"I told them for now that all I wanted was a home where I could move in."


Renault entices with year-end promo savings on Captur and Fluence

                PETALING JAYA: TC Euro Cars, the sole franchise holder for Renault, is currently offering a year-end promotion till Dec 31, on the Captur crossover and Fluence sedan with an installment-free year and either two-free scheduled services or a cash rebate.

Those who register their vehicle(s) during the promotional period will enjoy an installment-free year and a choice of either a free car service, with a maximum of up to two free scheduled services (in the first year of ownership or for the first 20,000km - whichever comes first) or a cash rebate instead.

The two-tone designed Captur made its entrance last year (review) made the scene last year with a 1.2-litre turbocharged engine mated to a six-speed gearbox and is currently priced on-the-road with GST without insurance at RM112,200, while the naturally-aspirated Fluence that speaks to the low-key modern conservative is similarly priced at RM119,888.

And like all other Renault vehicles within their stable, both vehicles come with a five-year manufacturer's warranty with unlimited mileage.


Toyota sold over 9,000 cars in Q1 2023, up 12%

                SHAH ALAM: UMW Toyota Motor ended Q1 of 2023 on a high note, registering 9,026 units for Toyota and 110 units for Lexus for March 2023, the highest ever sales registered for a first quarter.

Total sales for March stood at 9,136 units (Toyota + Lexus), compared to 9,297 units (Toyota + Lexus) recorded in February.

Total year-to-date sales registered for March 2023 stood at 25,219 units compared to 22,447 units for year-to-date sales registered in March 2022, a positive increase of 12% from the previous year.

The month of March also saw the unveiling of the All-New Toyota Vios, a popular subcompact sedan that has been a bestseller in the Malaysian non-national car market since its introduction in 2003.

The new and highly anticipated model boasts improved performance, quicker acceleration, and new technology, making it an even more compelling choice for customers looking for a reliable, efficient, and affordable car.

In other development, UMW Toyota Motor held a tree-planting session (UMW Green Shoots Initiative), hosted by the Malaysian Nature Society at Tanjung Tuan, Melaka in conjunction with the Raptor Watch 2023 event.

This initiative supports the National 100 Million Trees Planting Campaign and matches the three objectives of the UN Sustainable Development Goals. It is also aligned with Toyota’s commitment to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050.

Mangrove saplings were planted in an effort to rehabilitate the mangrove swamp ecosystem in Tanjung Tuan, which was destroyed because of an oil spill in 2020.

Up to 6,100 trees were planted by 250 volunteers made up of staff volunteers, students and teachers from University Putra Malaysia, Serdang and Politeknik Port Dickson, Taylor's University and members of the public.

In conjunction with the Ramadan season, UMW Toyota Motor has announced a promotion on selected models worth up to RM8,000, 100% loan financing and a Toyota Service Savers promotion with monthly instalments from as low as RM22. Terms and conditions apply.

It also assured Toyota customers of good aftersales support.