RearVision by Pearl improves car safety

                SAN FRANCISCO: What do Apple engineers do when they quit the iconic iPhone and Macbook maker?

Well, some move on to set up their own companies. Three of them - Joseph Fisher, Bryson Gardner and Brian Sander - did just that and formed a start-up called Pearl Automation.

The new company announced last June its first product called RearVision which retails for US$499.99 (RM2,243) at pearlauto.com. It was exhibited at the SEMA Show in Las Vegas in November.

RearVision is an advanced backup camera and alert system that installs easily on the back of a car. It enables a super-wide view of the area behind the vehicle in both day and night — with high-definition video streamed wirelessly to a smartphone. Feature upgrades are provided through automatic updates.

The latest software update in December made it easier to launch the Pearl app at the start of a drive. With the iOS update, the driver gets a notification when he places his phone on the Pearl phone mount at the beginning of the drive. He can tap the notification or swipe it to the right on the lock screen to quickly launch the app.

After the update, the app will ask for permission to send the driver notifications and the feature will be enabled by default once accepted. An Android version of the app is also available.

 RearVision’s Smart Parking Guidelines

RearVision also has Smart Parking Guidelines that examines the environment and then adjusts the length of the line as it approaches obstacles. This results in guidelines that integrate more realistically into the world a driver sees on screen. As he backs up towards a wall, car, or other object, he will see on screen guidelines that only appear leading up to those obstacles, and then adjust dynamically as he gets closer.

The after-market product comprises two camera lenses, each with a 170 degree field of vision. One lens is calibrated for day use and the other for night use. An adapter with a speaker for alerts is hooked into the car’s onboard diagnostics port, which connects the cameras on the licence plate to the Pearl app on the phone.

Every new car sold in the US by 2018 is required to be equipped with a backup camera. At present, less than one in four vehicles in the United States are equipped with the device.

 (From left) Fisher, Gardner, and COO Brian Sander are co-founders of Pearl. They used to work for Apple.

Pearl product vice president Mincey was quoted as saying that “the car is the next great mobile device.”

Pearl was created on the premise that new car features should be introduced to motorists without them having to buy a new car.

It aims to speed up the painfully slow adoption rates of automotive technology, which can take up to 40 years to reach the masses.

“You shouldn’t have to buy a new car to get new car features, especially as cars are expected to last up to 20 years,” Pearl CEO Gardner told tech news site Santa Cruz Tech Beat.

“Rather than wait for the promise of the autonomous vehicle, we are further developing many of those underlying technologies to help the human driver today. And these features learn and improve over time through automatic updates, just as you’ve come to expect with the experience on your phone.”

Pearl has secured venture capital funding of US$50mil (RM224mil).


Audi teases another e-tron concept with sketches ahead of Geneva debut

The Q4 e-tron concept.
INGOLSTADT: Audi plans to debut another e-tron concept, coined the Q4, at the Geneva Motor Show next month. The sketches that accompanied the brand's announcement display a crossover SUV that takes significant design cues from the e-tron SUV that you can already reserve now.

Audi published a series of sketches on Wednesday featuring its newest e-tron concept that appears to slide right in between the e-tron GT coupé concept that debuted last November and the e-Tron SUV that's going into production soon. Size-wise, it will probably slot in between the Q3 and Q5 — naturally.

Apart from some interior and exterior sketches, Audi only divulged that the compact SUV is a concept that "provides a glimpse of the next stage of Audi electric mobility" and is expected to enter production in late 2020 or early 2021.

The concept is expected to be built on VW's MEB electric car platform, a chassis which consolidates all the vehicle's electronic controls. With the battery low beneath the floor of the vehicle, more space is available for passengers, so this Q4 will probably be fairly roomy on the inside.


GM to retire Holden, wind down Aussie, NZ operations

                NEW YORK: General Motors Co is retreating from more markets outside of the United States and China, saying on Sunday that it will wind down sales, design and engineering operations in Australia and New Zealand and retire the Holden brand by 2021.

It also said China’s Great Wall Motor Co Ltd had agreed to buy GM’s Thailand manufacturing plant, a transaction expected to be completed by the end of 2020.

In rearranging its global operations, GM is accelerating its retreat from unprofitable markets, becoming more dependent on the United States, China, Latin America and South Korea.

GM chief financial officer Dhivya Suryadevara told analysts during a Feb 5 presentation that restructuring GM’s international operations outside of China so they produce profit margins in the mid-single digits “does represent a US$2 billion improvement” compared with 2018’s.

With the proposed sale of its Thailand plant to Chinese automaker Great Wall, GM is giving up an opening to expand its operations in South-East Asia.

GM is “focusing on markets where we have the right strategies to drive robust returns, and prioritising global investments that will drive growth in the future of mobility,” especially in electric and autonomous vehicles, GM chair and CEO Mary Barra said in a statement.

The changes will lead to cash and non-cash charges of US$1.1 billion.

Great Wall, one of China’s biggest sport-utility vehicle makers, said it will sell cars from the Thai plant, other Asean countries and Australia as the Baoding-based automaker seeks global expansion amid a slowing domestic market.

In January, it signed an agreement to buy a GM plant in India. The companies said they expected the transaction would be completed by the second half of 2020.


Another study bolsters claim hackers can get into most 'connected cars'

                WASHINGTON: Virtually all "connected cars" on the road are vulnerable to hackers who could steal data or gain control of the vehicle, a report from a US senator said Monday.

The report prepared by the staff of Senator Ed Markey said the wireless connectivity and Internet access available on the vehicles opens up security gaps that could be exploited for malicious purposes.

The study found these security weaknesses in "nearly 100 percent of cars on the market" and noted that most automobile manufacturers were unaware of or unable to report on past hacking incidents.

The senator's staff, which collected data from 16 major auto manufacturers, cited earlier studies on some vehicles which showed how hackers can get into the controls of some popular vehicles, causing them to suddenly accelerate, turn, de-activate brakes, activate the horn, control headlights, and modify the speedometer and gas gauge readings.

 Markey

The report also noted that many of these connected cars collect data on driving that could be kept in violation of privacy.

It said that the "alarmingly inconsistent and incomplete state of industry security and privacy practices" raises questions about the need for new US rules from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) or other federal agencies.

"Drivers have come to rely on these new technologies, but unfortunately the automakers haven't done their part to protect us from cyberattacks or privacy invasions," Markey said in a statement.

"Even as we are more connected than ever in our cars and trucks, our technology systems and data security remain largely unprotected."

The report said the manufacturers appeared to take little or no action following disclosures from researchers in 2013 and 2014 about these vulnerabilities.

The report pointed out that hackers can gain access to a car via Bluetooth wireless connections, the OnStar system for remote assistance, malware in an Android smartphone which is paired with the vehicle, or even an infected CD in the car sound system.

"These findings reveal that there is a clear lack of appropriate security measures to protect drivers against hackers who may be able to take control of a vehicle or against those who may wish to collect and use personal driver information," the report said.

The report obtained responses from 16 major global manufacturers BMW, Chrysler, Ford, General Motors, Honda, Hyundai, Jaguar Land Rover, Mazda, Mercedes-Benz, Mitsubishi, Nissan, Porsche, Subaru, Toyota, Volkswagen and Volvo.

Letters were sent to Aston Martin, Lamborghini and Tesla, but those manufacturers did not respond.

The study noted that the two major coalitions of automobile manufacturers recently issued a voluntary set of privacy principles by which their members have agreed to abide but said it was not clear how these principles would be interpreted.

The US-based Alliance of Automobile Manufacturers said in a response to an AFP query that it had not seen the report but that its members "believe that strong consumer data privacy protections and strong vehicle security are essential to maintaining the continued trust of our customers."

The statement added that automakers "pledge to provide heightened protections to the most sensitive types of consumer information -- protections that go beyond similar principles in other industry sectors "


Ford creates new unit to develop semi-autonomous driving tech

                DETROIT: Ford Motor Co. is forming a new unit to focus on semi-autonomous features and is hiring about one-quarter of the workers from its former self-driving affiliate Argo AI.

The wholly owned subsidiary, known as Latitude AI, will be based in Pittsburgh, Argo’s former home, according to a statement last Thursday.

The new unit will focus on "developing a hands-free, eyes-off-the-road automated driving system for millions of vehicles,” Ford said.

The automaker is hiring about 550 employees from Argo, the self-driving startup Ford and Volkswagen AG shut down in October.

The workers will focus on technology such as BlueCruise, the automaker’s hands-free driving feature that it says has logged more than 50 million miles of use.

"The deep experience and talent in our Latitude team will help us accelerate the development of all-new automated driving technology,” Doug Field, Ford’s chief advanced product development and technology officer, said in the statement.

Ford and Volkswagen jettisoned Argo after determining it would take too long to realize a return on the billions they had invested in the self-driving startup.

Ford took a US$2.7 billion (RM12bil) write-down on its investment last year. Argo had more than 2,000 workers as of July last year.

Argo’s demise showed how attitudes about self-driving technology have swiftly changed. The idea of free-range robotaxis navigating congested cities now is seen as a distant dream.

Ford says Latitude will focus on near term-automated technology that assists human drivers, but doesn’t replace them entirely with robots.


Part of NSE southbound from Bidor to Sungkai closed for roadworks

                IPOH: The emergency and left southbound lanes on the North-South Expressway between Bidor and Sungkai will be closed over two stretches of five days each to facilitate maintenance works.

A PLUS Malaysia Berhad (PLUS) spokesman said pavement maintenance work on the affected stretch between KM342 and KM343 started on Monday.

"This stretch will be closed until 8am on March 26," the spokesman said in a statement on Tuesday (March 23).

"It will also be closed from 8am on April 5 and reopen at 8am on April 9.

"The right lane of the affected stretch is still passable to all vehicles.

"All road users heading south are strongly advised to plan their journey using the PLUS app and to check the latest traffic conditions via CCTV feeds.

"Customers passing through the designated area are also advised to follow all traffic signage and instructions by PLUS personnel," the spokesman added.

He said motorists who encountered difficulties could use the SOS button in the app to ask for help from PLUSRonda teams.


Fuel prices down for first week of May

                PETALING JAYA: Fuel prices will drop across the board for the first week of May under the weekly pricing mechanism.

Both RON 95 and RON 97 petrol will go down by 10 sen per litre respectively.

The price of RON95 petrol will be priced at RM2.11 per litre compared to RM2.21 last week, while the price of RON97 petrol will be RM2.39, down 10 sen from RM2.49 per litre last week.

The price of diesel is also down by six sen to RM2.08 compared to RM2.14 per litre last week. The new prices come into effect on Thursday and will remain in effect until May 10.

The Domestic Trade, Cooperatives and Consumerism Ministry posted the new weekly fuel prices on Twitter. Previously, its minister Datuk Seri Hamzah Zainudin announced that a new weekly fuel pricing mechanism would be used from April.

The prices of petrol and diesel had been placed on a managed monthly float system since Dec 1, 2014, following the removal of fuel subsidies. With the new weekly mechanism, fuel prices will be announced every Wednesday and take effect after midnight.


Are light alloy wheels really lighter than steel counterparts?

                HANOVER: When buying light-alloy car wheels - also known as aluminium rims - buyers often cite the wheels' slicker appearance as their main advantage.

The conventional wisdom is that they are also lighter than steel wheels. That, according to a major German safety inspection agency, Tuv Nord, reduces the vehicle's weight slightly and, in turn, reduces fuel consumption.

However, nothing stays the same. Thanks to recent technological developments, modern steel wheels are being made of thinner sheet, so they are not as heavy as they used to be. Makers have optimised them to take a pounding from the road without carrying excess weight.

That means you will often be offered die-cast aluminium rims suitable wide range of applications, from small cars to SUVs, that weigh barely less than modern steel wheels of comparable size. Sometimes they are even heavier.

The conclusion? Steel rims are attractively priced and more robust, but you may not like painted wheels. Light-alloy wheels remain more aesthetically pleasing for many people because of the shiny bare metal.

In both cases, weight has been reduced thanks to modern production processes such as flow-forming.


2017 promises to be a bumper year for new cars

                HAMBURG: The last year was a great one for car buyers and 2017 looks like being even better. Makers have lined up a rush of new models ranging from practical family hatchbacks to trendy SUVs and exhilarating sports-cars.

Most of the new metal heading for the showrooms features useful new gadgets to boost safety and to give motorists more cockpit access to the virtual world.

Truly self-driving cars and long-range electric cars are still a way off, so carmakers are bridging the gap with upgrades and makeovers of some of the most important models in the marketplace.

- Alfa Romeo of Italy is straying into new territory with the first genuine off-roader in the history of the brand. The Stelvio slots in below the Levante from Maserati. The SUV is named after a breathtaking mountain road rich in hairpin bends.

- The Alpine sub-brand is being revived by Renault after decades in the doldrums. The sleek two-seater conjures up images of the iconic A110. A powerful four-pot engine provides 300 horsepower of urge.

- Audi starts off the year with the new Q5 off-roader and has promised the next-generation of its A8 limousine for later in the year. The luxury heavyweight will come with a host of self-driving features.

- BMW's revamped 5 Series is eagerly awaited in showrooms from February, and the popular estate version has been scheduled for later this year.

The X3 is getting a makeover too and the X2 is being fettled as an entry-level soft mudplugger.

- Bugatti's new Chiron is a hypercar for the handful of drivers who can afford it. Unique selling points are the 8-litre, 16-cylinder quad-turbocharged motor and a claimed top speed of 420 kilometres an hour.

At 2.856 million euros (US$3mil), the Chiron is the most expensive car in the world.

- Citroen has promised a new version of the C5 while budget maker Dacia is giving the whole range a mild facelift before new models enter the fray in 2018/19.

- Ford takes the wraps of the all-new Fiesta, now in its seventh generation. This is the most grown-up version of the hatchback supermini. The car has got larger and has gained a more upmarket interior.

- Honda will be aiming to lure customers away from Volkwagen's evergreen Golf with a new Civic, while Hyundai hopes the second generation of the i30 will also appeal to the Golf customer base.

- Mazda presents the MX-5 Miata Retractable Fastback (RF), which features a power-retractable targa top. With the roof up it sports a handsome coupe roofline. Tucking away the soft central roof section takes just 12 seconds.

- Mercedes-Benz has refreshed the luxury S Class for 2017 and also tweaked the boxy G Class off-roader after four decades in the range. The near-upright front screen and the overall shape remain, but the G wagon has been discreetly widened and the interior upgraded to give a more contemporary look and feel.

- Nissan starts the year with a makeover of the Micra, aiming to transform it from a generic baby car into a vehicle with character, extra interior room and lots of the digital goodies already available higher in the Nissan range.

Expect a similar makeover at the end of the year for the company's little Juke crossover.

- Opel will present a load-carrying version of its second-gen Insignia, now badged as a Grand Sport.

The German arm of General Motors has high hopes for its rebadge of the Chevy Bolt, the Ampera-e, which the makers say can cover 500km between charges. It heralds a slew of practical, everyday EVs from a whole range of other makers in the years to come.

- Renault's Alaskan pick-up is a first for the French maker. The pure-electric gets a range boost and the Koleos offroader will touch down in second-generation form.

- Tesla is aiming for the masses too with its more affordable Model 3, which can cover 350km before the batteries need replenishment.

- VW is still digesting the diesel-emissions scandal which has shaken the world's largest carmaker to the foundations.

The subtle midlife styling changes on the Golf 7 will not turn heads but may improve the car's competitive edge. A new Polo is also in the pipeline and the reprofiled Touareg off-roader is expected in the second half of the year.


VW Arteon R-Line, Tiguan Allspace R-Line or Elegance get extra 2 years free maintenance

                KUALA LUMPUR: Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM) has announced an extra two years free maintenance on its bestselling models.

Buyers of the Arteon R-Line, Tiguan Allspace R-Line or Elegance will enjoy a five-year free maintenance (or 75,000km - whichever comes first), on top of the current five-year manufacturer warranty and roadside assistance.

The offer provides up to RM9,600 worth of savings.

The Arteon R-Line has a graceful fastback shape, LED headlights and an LED taillight cluster.

Under the hood lies a 2.0-litre turbocharged engine paired with a 7-speed wet clutch DSG direct shift gearbox that produces 280ps and 350Nm of torque.

This allows reaching 100kph in just 5.6 seconds from standstill.

Fuel efficiency is billed as 7.4 litres per 100km, while grip and handling are further improved with its 4Motion all-wheel drive system.

The seven-seater Tiguan Allspace family SUV offers versatility with multiple seat configurations.

Boot space is a massive 1,775 litres with the third-row seats folded - the best in the segment.

The Tiguan Allspace R-Line is Volkswagen’s performance SUV, offering the highest power and torque in its class, thanks to a 2.0-litre turbocharged engine, producing 220ps and torque of 350Nm, and its capabilities are enhanced with a 4Motion all-wheel drive system.

The Tiguan Allspace Elegance variant is powered by a 1.4-litre turbocharged engine, producing 150ps and 250Nm.

Its interior has connectivity features such as a Digital Cockpit and 9.2-inch Discover Pro infotainment system with wireless App-Connect.

The Arteon R-Line 4Motion retails at RM276,990 while the Tiguan R-Line 4Motion is priced at RM235,990.

The Tiguan Allspace Elegance retails at RM188,990.


300 limited Kawazaki Z-Anniversary Box up for grabs when you buy the Modenas Z250

                SHAH ALAM: Edaran Modenas Sdn Bhd (Emos), the subsidiary of Motosikal dan Enjin Nasional Sdn Bhd (Modenas) announced the distribution of its limited-edition Z-Anniversary Box (Z-Box) in conjunction with the 50 years milestone of the Kawasaki Z-series.

Emos will be distributing the limited-edition Z-Box to 300 of its new Modenas Z250 owners where each box will contain a Z Chronicles Book, Z T-shirt and Kawasaki Head Buff Bandana.

The Z-Chronicles book tells of how Kawasaki stunned the motorcycle world with the release of the Kawasaki 900 Super4 in 1972.

Nicknamed the Z1, the bike had the first in-line four in its class with DOHC, and an unheard displacement of 903cc and featured many of Kawasaki’s most advanced technologies.

Being the last letter in the alphabet, Z represents the ultimate and Z models have grown into one of Kawasaki’s core motorcycle models.

Although the shape, style and riding environment have evolved over the years, the models crowned with the Z mark continue to establish themselves as icons of performance.

With the Z1 and its world-conquering performance leading the way, Kawasaki expanded the Z series to meet a variety of needs.

The Z400 was a sporty commuter with the power characteristics riders expected in a Z machine.

In the KZ900LTD, one of the first factory customs, riders could enjoy high performance in high comfort, while the Z500 and Z400FX were middleweight super sport bikes.

Soon, there were models for almost every taste and riding style, providing a wider range of riders with exciting performances for which the Z series was famous.

From 1972 to August 2021, 2,571,000 units were produced worldwide.

For enquiries or details, visit https://modenas.my/v2/ and http://www.kawasaki.com.my/home, or contact the Toll Free Line at 1-800-880-008 or WhatsApp Careline at +6019-570 8135.


Mercedes dealership in Johor Baru upgraded

                PETALING JAYA: Mercedes-Benz Malaysia (MBM) together with authorised dealer NZ Wheels, continue to strengthen their partnership with the unveiling of the completely refurbished Mercedes-Benz NZ Wheels Johor Bahru Autohaus (Mercedes-Benz NZ Wheels JB Autohaus).

The upgrade also premiers the launch of an AMG Performance Centre, a first of-its-kind in the southern region.

With a total built-up of 18,692.40 sq ft, the Mercedes-Benz NZ Wheels JB Autohaus is able to display 11 showroom vehicles, and is managed by 32 personnel across sales, technical services and spare parts functions.

A 3S centre, the Autohaus presently has 12 work bays, capable of servicing up to 500 vehicles per month to cope with the increasing need for premium customer service and experience.

With a total upgrading cost of RM6 million, Mercedes-Benz NZ Wheels JB Autohaus is now compliant with the Mercedes-Benz Presentation System II (MPS II), the global Autohaus benchmark of customer experience, complete with the new Mercedes-Benz Corporate Identity (CI).

 From left, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia, Network Development SEA II, Senior Manager, JC Yap; Mercedes-Benz Malaysia, Sales & Marketing SEA II, Vice President, Mark Raine; Naza Automotive Group, Group CEO, Datuk Samson Anand George; and NZ Wheels Sdn Bhd, Vice President I, Thoo Ai Wen.

"Driven by a common passion of bringing the best products and after-sales experiences to customers, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia together with our partner, NZ Wheels, celebrates yet another milestone with this newly refurbished Autohaus in Johor Baru, complete with an AMG Performance Centre," said Mercedes-Benz Malaysia President and CEO, Dr Claus Weidner.

The Mercedes-Benz NZ Wheels Johor Bahru Autohaus is one of six authorised dealer groups catering to the southern region and is located at:

NZ Wheels Johor Bahru Autohaus,
Address: Lot 173041, Jalan Masai Lama, 81700 Plentong, Johor.
Tel: 07-355 7218
Fax: 07-354 7218/6218

For more information, visit the website.


Maserati taps into Cambodia's growing list of millionaires

                MODENA: Maserati thinks Cambodia is its next growth market, and has announced its foray into the South-East Asian country.

It has partnered with Cambodia's HGB Group, which will distribute the Italian company's full Maserati range.

HGB Group’s showroom is located in the most elegant and prominent area of Phnom Penh.

The opening of the showroom has been announced by Oknha Ngov Leang Houth, Chairman of HGB Group, with a livestream broadcast to a global audience. The facility includes a showroom of 610 sqm displaying the Maserati product line-up and a workshop of 1.760 sqm equipped with 3 work bays.

“Maserati is entering in a period of intense changes with revolutionary new cars, innovations and projects," said Maserati chief commercial officer Bernard Loire.

"The focus now is strongly on the future, including hybrid and electric models."

"Maserati has been establishing its presence actively in South-East Asia in recent years”, said Maserati APAC head Luca Delfino.

“We already have partners in Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam, and Indonesia."

Cambodia's luxury car market is estimated to grow at a Compound Annual Growth Rate of 14% from 2017 to 2020. Cambodia has an average GDP annual growth of 7% between 2014 and 2018, and up to 6% by 2024.

Its major industries - textile, agricultural, tourism and gaming and property - have attracted foreign direct investments of US$2.2 billion in 2016, with an average annual growth of 12% in 2014-2016 and up to US$6 billion by 2024.

On top of this, the number of Cambodians with more than US$30 million in net assets increased by 170% over the past decade, and it is set to rise by a further 56% in the next decade.


RON95 price to be floated, petrol subsidies for BSH recipients

                PUTRAJAYA: The government’s new petrol subsidy scheme will float the price of RON95 petrol and see eligible recipients receiving between RM48 (motorcycle owners) and RM120 (car owners) every four months.

The targeted subsidy scheme, which is set to take effect at the start of 2020, will only be given to car and motorcycle owners based in Peninsular Malaysia who are also recipients of the Bantuan Sara Hidup (BSH).

For cars, only those with 1,600cc engines and below or vehicles over 10 years old with engines larger than 1,600cc are eligible.

For Sabah, Sarawak and Labuan, there will be no subsidy scheme but the price of RON95 in the two states and the Federal Territory will be capped at RM2.08, Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail told a special media conference here today.

He said a total of 2.8 million people will benefit from the subsidy scheme, which will cost the government about RM65.4mil a month.

In a reaction to the new scheme, a Sabah party has denounced it as unfair.

Opposition Parti Kerjasama Anak Negeri (Anak Negeri) central committee member Hendrew Sigar said that Saifuddin must justify why the Borneo states, as oil producers, would not be rewarded with fuel subsidy.

He said the fact that Sabah, Sarawak and Labuan will retain the RON95 fuel price of RM2.08 is beside the point.

"The argument that Sabah, Sarawak and FT Labuan are enjoying the price of RM2.08 for RON95 is not acceptable.

"Why stay at RM2.08 if consumers in Sabah Sarawak and Labuan could enjoy more subsidy?" he asked in a statement here today.

He said that it looked scandalous that Sabah, Sarawak and Labuan were denied the benefit of fuel subsidy as these Borneo states are major producers of oil and gas, which collectively brings billions in federal revenue.


The world’s largest roundabout located in Malaysia

                PETALING JAYA: What measures 3.4km in circumference and is joined by 15 entry/exit points? The Putrajaya Roundabout.

It also happens to be the largest roundabout in the world.

The roundabout is located in the heart of Putrajaya, the administrative capital of Malaysia. It was opened in 2003 and was designed by renowned Malaysian architect, Hijjas Kasturi.

It is a unique engineering feat, as it was built with a large artificial lake in the centre. This lake is connected to a canal, which winds its way through the city and empties into Putrajaya Lake.

The name of the road forming the roundabout is Persiaran Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz Shah, and within its centre is the Istana Melawati, the Putra Perdana Landmark and a five-star hotel.

The Putrajaya Roundabout is a major junction for commuters and is the main access point to the city's major attractions.

It is considered an impressive feat of modern engineering, and a testament to the nation's commitment to developing its cities.

The government of Trinidad and Tobago had disputed the Putrajaya Roundabout's title, claiming that its Queen's Park Savannah should hold the title.

However, while many have suggested that while the park's 2.3-mile (3.7km) circumference is indeed longer than the Putrajaya Roundabout, the savannah does not really count as a roundabout at all as its shape is more of an "L" than round or oval.


Toyota patents car whose wheels double as rotors for flying

                TOKYO: "Back to the Future" may not have been totally off... just a few years early with its projections. A recently published US patent filed by Toyota outlines a flying car with pop-out rotors in the wheels.

Two main concepts are outlined in the patent abstract for the dual-mode vehicle: the "wheels for the vehicle, and a method of transitioning the vehicle from a land mode to a flight mode."

When your future self decides to take flight mode for a spin, the wheels would electrically fold upward - just as you imagined in your dreams. These flight-adept wheels would be furnished with rotor blades, which would be "housed fully within the rim of the wheel" and that would emerge when the wheels begin rotating and, in no time, you would be able to get to the grocery store without waiting in traffic.

The wheels could potentially be powered in several different manners: "a battery pack, a gas turbine generator, fuel cells, or any other energy conversion device capable of generating sufficient electric power to drive the wheels."

These power systems will most likely have to be separate from those required for the flight mode rotors based on existing vehicles with vertical take-off and landing. This will significantly increase the weight and complexity of the land/aircraft, but the race for the ideal balance seems to have already begun.

Thanks to Toyota and other companies like Audi, Aston Martin, and Uber, the idea of a flying car is no longer a figment of our imagination, but rather a real concept that is in the works.

Tokyo-based company Cartivator, which itself has backing from Toyota, is even hoping to have its three-wheeled flying car based on drone tech, Skydrive, ready in time to light the Olympic flame at the 2020 Summer Olympics, a feat that would be sure to bring the flying car concept even more firmly into the real world.

AutoGuide spotted the recent publication of the patent filed by Toyota in 2017.


Mercedes-AMG C 63 S taken to the limit

                As one of Mercedes-Benz's more popular model, the C Class offers a relatively easy entry into the world of the Three-Pointed Star.

The regular C Class variants are usually specified more towards premium motoring, elegance and comfort, and sometimes leave hard-driving enthusiasts out in the equation where adrenaline pumping performance is craved.

With the introduction of the updated four-door C 63 S sedan and its C 63 S Coupe sibling last year, well-heeled speedsters can add two new cars to their wish list. Our test unit was the sedan variant in Brilliant Blue Metallic priced at RM768,888 on-the-road without insurance.

 Exterior
The grille is now the Panamericana-type featuring upright slats with a large Mercedes star that are also fitted on the Mercedes-AMG GT high-performance models so that you will know this C Class is infused with motorsports lineage.

The headlights are the bright and long range Multibeam LED-type while the bonnet comes with ridge lines for a more aggressive appearance. Together with large 19-inch wheels, wider wings and bodykits, the C 63 S is muscular and expressive, while still offering the stylish bodylines of the regular C Class.

The red calipers gripping on oversized cross drilled and slotted brake discs, which can be seen through the black spokes of alloy wheels, and heighten the C 63 S' sporty appeal.

The boot also comes with a lip spoiler which are not available on the regular C Class.

Interior
While reprising a similar dashboard to the pre-facelift model, the updated C 63 S gets new larger 10.25-inch media display and 12.3-inch all-digital instrument display which immediately draw the driver's attention.

The flat-bottom multi-function steering wheel with paddle shifters now gets two additional controllers for vehicle settings just below the steering wheel's main spokes. AMG Nappa leather in two tone platinum white pearl/black combination upholstery and AMG carbon fibre with light longtitudinal-grain aluminium trimming add to the sporty feel and excitement.

Like in the regular C Class variants, legroom are enough all around but the C 63 S's front passengers get bucket seats that come with adjustable bolsters for side support during high speed cornering.

Other high-end features include ambient lighting, panoramic sliding sunroof, rear air conditioner vents, 360-degree camera system, head-up display, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto support and Burmester surround Sound system.

Drive experience

With a 4.0-litre V8 engine delivering 510hp and 700Nm of torque, the C 63 S' performance, driving dynamics and visceral experience are easily within the territory of high-performance sports cars.

The C 63 S fires to life at the push of the start/stop button with a brutal rumble before idling down to a muffled burble.

The AMG Performance exhaust system with three selectable flap setting allows drivers to rein in and partly civilise the otherwise savage exhaust note as not to distress neighbours or pedestrians.

Floor the accelerator and this steroids-infused sedan releases unrestrained power and scorches the 0-100kph sprint in 4 seconds and to a top speed of 290kph.

Featuring a new AMG Speedshift MCT automatic transmission with 9-speed, up from 7-speed previously, the C 63 S now delivers more furious performance over the engine rev range.

The AMG Dynamic Select modes are Comfort, Sport, Sport+, Individual, Slippery and RACE which tweaks the car's engine, transmission, exhaust and suspension settings to suit the profile chosen by the driver.

Even when its AMG Ride Control+ with a three-stage suspension setting is set to the "softest," the ride can still be considered firm by many people who have never driven a Mercedes-AMG model before.

By trading off a bit of comfort for a firmer setting, the C 63 S using 19-inch wheels with low-profile sports tyres, easily delivers a planted ride at high speeds and minimal body roll around fast bends.

Brakes, meanwhile, are very responsive and offer a strong bite to snuff of excess speed instantly. The thick steering wheel wrapped with Nappa leather and Dinamica microfibre is pleasant to hold and provides good response and feedback.

Aside from the usual slew of safety features of airbags, anti-lock braking system, electronic stability programme among others, the C 63 S also has a helping of semi-autonomous driving aid to help in steering, lane keeping and collision prevention.

Verdict

At the C 63 S' asking price of just below RM770,000, prospective buyers can also pay the same amount for a large luxury sedan or a full-size seven-seater premium sports utility vehicle which are two segments bigger and more spacious. However, those alternatives would fall way short of delivering the wicked diving excitement the C 63 S could.
SPECIFICATIONS Mercedes-AMG C 63 SEngine: 3,982cc, V8, bi-turbo
Maximum power: 510hp from 5,500 to 6,250rpm
Maximum torque: 700Nm from 2,000 to 4,500rpm
Transmission: Nine-speed AMG Speedshift Multi-Clutch Technology
Features: Airbags, AMG Ride Control sports suspension, AMG Dynamic Select, anti-lock braking system, electronic stability programme, head-up display, 19-inch AMG cross-spoke forged wheels, Adaptive Highbeam Assist Plus, Multibeam LED headlamps, AMG performance exhaust system, Burmester surround sound system, 10.25-inch media display, 12.3-inch all-digital instrument display, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, surround view camera, Distance Pilot Distronic with Steering Pilot, Active Lane-keeping Assist, Active Blind Spot Assist, Active Brake Assist with cross traffic function, Active Parking Assist, panoramic sliding sunroof, AMG performance steering wheel in Nappa leather and Dinamica microfibre, Nappa leather upholstery, COMAND Online, sat-nav
Acceleration (0-100kph): 4.0 seconds
Top speed: 290kph
Price (on-the-road without insurance): RM768,888


BMW M135i xDrive launched at RM356K

                KUALA LUMPUR: BMW Malaysia has introduced the third-generation flagship M135i Drive (F40) which got its formal introduction in Malaysia together with the X1 sDrive18i.

Known unofficially as "The 1", this all-wheel-driven German premium hatchback will be made available at all authorised dealerships nationwide by July 28 while being priced on-the-road without insurance and SST at RM355,646.25.

Budding customers can book the M135i online at RM1,000 and be in the running to drive home a new BMW i8 Coupé.

New owners will receive the complete BMW Group Malaysia Premium Ownership experience which is a five-year unlimited mileage warranty with free scheduled service programme that's accompanied by BMW roadside assistance and accident hotline as well as gain access to the BMW Group Loyalty+ Mobile App and BMW Service Online before receiving a BMW Privileges Card.

For choice, there are five colour options that include Alpine White, Black Sapphire, Misano Blue, Mineral Grey and Melbourne Red.

Additionally, the cabin can be draped in either black leather ‘Dakota’ upholstery with black perforations or Magma Red Leather ‘Dakota’ upholstery with grey highlight and black perforations.

Compared to its predecessor, the M135i has grown in width (+34mm) and height (+13mm) to accord more knee and shoulder room.

Not to mention, with the use of BMW's front-wheel-drive architecture, luggage capacity sees an increase to 380 litres (+20 litres) or 1,200 litres with the rear 40:20:40 seats folded down.

New owners will receive the complete BMW Group Malaysia Premium Ownership experience which is a five-year unlimited mileage warranty with free scheduled service programme that's accompanied by BMW roadside assistance and accident hotline as well as gain access to the BMW Group Loyalty+ Mobile App and BMW Service Online before receiving a BMW Privileges Card.

Powering M135i is a 2.0-litre (1,998cc) turbocharged engine punching out 306hp  from 5,000 to  6,250rpm and 450Nm of torque from 1,750 to 4,500rpm.

Mated to the engine is an eight-speed Steptronic Sport Transmission sending power to all four 19 x 8-inch V-spoke style 557 bi-colour M light-weight alloy wheels wearing 235/35 series tyres which hide the M Sport suspension while the blue M Sport brake system can be seen peeking through the wheels.

All that helps the M135i sprint from 0 to 100kph in 4.8 seconds and onwards to an electronically limited top speed of 250kph.

Externally, the M135i's kidney grille comes in Cerium Grey with a mesh-design rather than the classic vertical bars and has been merged in the middle for the first time for this model range.

Also in Cerium Grey are the front and side air inlets, exterior mirror caps and the 100mm exhaust tips.

The automatic and adaptive LED headlights with high-beam assistant now present themselves in a slanted design while the rear sports a pair of classic L-shaped three-dimensional two-part taillights and a more aggressive M rear spoiler.

During spirited drives, the M135i has been equipped with ARB technology (actuator continuous wheel slip limitation) – as seen in the all-electric BMW i3s, which redirects power to the rear wheels when necessary for a 50:50 power split between the front and rear axle. When cruising/crawling about, the power is predominantly sent to the front axle.

This is made possible by the slip control system positioned directly in the engine control unit, which results in a shorter signal path with engine output imperceptibly reduced as soon as it detects that the front wheels are slipping in order to cancel out understeer.

Also included is a newly developed Torsen limited-slip differential (with Launch Control) that's been integrated into the transmission to help optimise traction by distributing power to individual wheels when needed - functioning as a front differential that channels power to the wheel with the most traction in fast corners.

The cockpit is finished with an Anthracite headliner from BMW Individual, Illuminated Boston interior trim as well as M elements that adorn the sports seats, seat belts and leather steering wheel while the M135i designation is placed prominently on the front door sill finishers.

Staring back at the driver is the customizable 10.25-inch BMW Live Cockpit Professional instrument display that runs off the German carmaker's Operating System 7.0 that's also mirrored on the main high-resolution 10.25-inch touchscreen Control Display.

To round off the list of conveniences are powered front seats with driver-side memory function, dual-zone automatic climate controls,  wireless charging and a 16-speaker Harman Kardon surround sound system that also amplifies the engine's actual sound via the Active Sound Design system.

Also included is the BMW Digital Key, Apple CarPlay, Remote Software Upgrade and the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant.

Assistance is offered via the BMW Personal CoPilot which features the Driving Assistant, Parking Assistant and the Reversing Assistant.

The Driving Assistant includes Lane Change Warning, Crossing Traffic Warning at the rear, Rear Collision Warning and Speed Limit Assist. It also includes Lane Departure Warning and Frontal Collision Warning with braking function.

The Parking Assistant is also available, along with the intuitive Active Park Distance Control.

READ MORE: First contact with BMW M135i at BMW M Festival in Johannesburg

The Reversing Assistant recalls the last 50 metres covered and is able to manoeuvre back the same way by taking over the wheel while the driver controls acceleration and braking.

“The BMW 1 Series has been at the forefront of premium compact driving standards for over a decade. The new sporty compact model, now combined with the iconic genes of BMW M, further exemplifies the dynamic, independent spirit of those who constantly innovate to achieve greater success – whether to inspire or be inspired," said BMW Group Malaysia managing director Harald Hoelzl.

For slightly more personalisation options, the M135i can be slapped with high gloss-black fittings that include front attachments (RM3,583.85), side skirts (RM1,815.10) and a more aggressive rear spoiler (RM5,033.25) while the side decal (RM839.80) takes on a frozen-black look.


More lip-smacking details on McLaren Senna: 0-100kph in 2.8s, top speed at 340kph

                LONDON: The McLaren Senna was due to make its official public appearance at the upcoming 88th Geneva International Motor Show on March 6, but it was just too good not to be shared.

With only 500 units promised for the world at £750,000 each, they've all been spoken for.

The McLaren Senna has undergone considerable changes, where the revised carbon fibre body work, rear wing and active front and rear aerodynamic systems can provide up to 800kg of downforce while at 250kph.

The company also boasts that its new car is now the lightest vehicle the company has ever built at 1,198kg (dry weight) since the iconic F1 was created.

The road-legal track car uses a familiar mid-mounted 4.0-litre M840TR twin-turbo V8 to generate 800PS at 7,250rpm and 800Nm of torque from 5,500 to 6,700rpm.

The engine also features a flat-plane crankshaft, race-inspired dry sump lubrication and lightweight connecting rods and pistons help to reduce mass in the powertrain, while the ultra-low inertia twin-scroll turbochargers and electronically-controlled wastegates give an immediate sense of retardation to enhance engine responsiveness.

Lightweight camshafts and pistons unique to the McLaren Senna and externally repositioned dump valves are among other Senna-specific components.

Additionally, ion sensing with individual sensors per cylinder enables higher pressures and temperatures than on other McLaren engines.

A dual-clutch seven-speed gearbox manages power delivery to the rear wheels. The default transmission mode is fully automatic, but a McLaren Senna driver can select full manual control of gear shifts via the Active Dynamics Panel located within the centrally-mounted screen and change gears using the steering-mounted carbon fibre paddle-shifters that have been optimised for use with or without racing gloves.

A lightweight Inconel-titanium exhaust system uses either a twin-exit or triple-exit active system depending on market requirements.

The sound from the exhaust is said to encourage the driver to rev the engine high with the volume increasing by 10dB for every additional 2,000rpm right to the engine's rev limit.

In terms of performance, the McLaren Senna shoots from 0 to 100kph in 2.8 seconds, four-seconds later at 6.8 seconds its at 200kph before reaching a top speed of 340kph.

To take on grip duties are a set of bespoke Pirelli P Zero Trofeo R tyres measure 245/35 for the front 19-inch wheels and 315/30 for the rear 20-inch wheels and have been developed specifically for dry race tracks and everyday road use.

The asymmetrical tread pattern provides for maximum lateral grip and the special construction maintains cornering stiffness, while specific development work was undertaken on the compound to shorten braking distances, improve longitudinal performance, create a consistent reaction between the front and rear axles and heighten on-centre steering response.

Peeking through the spokes are the CCM-R carbon ceramic brake disc (each taking seven months to create) that have cooling vanes machined into the disc, rather than moulded.

The Formula 1-inspired front calipers are of a super-stiff monobloc design to maintain pedal feel and feature six ventilated pistons to reduce temperatures.

Ride and handling is taken care of by the adjustable ProActive Chassis Control suspension system technology from the MP4 12C that's been revised and altered to become RaceActive Chassis Control II (RCC II).

The new suspension system features double wishbones front and rear, with adaptive dampers interconnected hydraulically, both left to right and front to back.

Data from sensors – including four wheel accelerometers, two pressure sensors per damper and multiple body sensors – is analysed and reacted to in a mere 2 milliseconds to ensure perfect damping response.

The continuously variable system advances the control strategy introduced on the McLaren 720S to incorporate Race mode, which introduces significantly stiffer suspension, a lower ride height and a lower centre of gravity.

The top speed of the McLaren Senna is not limited in Race mode, but above 250kph, both the aero-blades and rear wing are actively trimmed to preserve peak downforce levels, which would otherwise continue to increase with speed and impart excessive load on the suspension and tyres.

A driver can adjust handling parameters using the Active Dynamics Panel to access Comfort, Sport and Track modes - Race mode is selected via a button in the roof-mounted panel.

“The McLaren Senna is a car like no other: the personification of McLaren’s motorsport DNA, legalised for road use but designed and developed from the outset to excel on a circuit. Every element of this new Ultimate Series McLaren has an uncompromised performance focus, honed to ensure the purest possible connection between driver and machine and deliver the ultimate track driving experience in the way that only a McLaren can,” said McLaren Automotive chief executive officer Mike Flewitt.

The creation of the McLaren Senna is an ode to the 30th anniversary of the late Ayrton Senna joining the McLaren-Honda Formula One team in 1988 who later went on to win his first World Championship that same year.

“You commit yourself to such a level where there is no compromise. You give everything you have; everything, absolutely everything.” Ayrton Senna (1960-1994), three-times Formula 1 World Champion in a McLaren.

Unfortunately, he lost his life while leading the 1994 San Marino Grand Prix while driving for Williams and to this day, the Formula One community still regards him as one of the greatest race car drivers of all time.


GM to slash jobs and production, axe some car models, say sources

                DETROIT/WASHINGTON: General Motors Co will cut car production, stop building several low-selling car models, and slash its North American workforce, sources said today, marking its biggest restructuring in North America since its bankruptcy a decade ago.

GM plans to halt production at three assembly plants in Canada, in Ohio and Michigan in the United States by not allocating new products, putting the future of those plants in doubt, the sources added.

The plants, Lordstown Assembly in Ohio, Detroit-Hamtramck Assembly and Oshawa Assembly, all build slow-selling cars.

The issue will be addressed in talks with the United Auto Workers union next year. GM Chief Executive Officer Mary Barra made calls early on Monday to disclose the plans, the sources said.

GM declined to comment ahead of an expected announcement.

Fewer models

GM is expected to announce it will cut the Chevrolet Volt, Impala and Cruze, the Cadillac CT6 and XTS, and the Buick LaCrosse, according to a source familiar with GM’s plans.

Cost pressures on GM and other automakers and suppliers have increased as demand waned for traditional sedans. The company has said tariffs on imported steel, imposed earlier this year by the Trump administration, have cost it $1 billion.

A Canadian union, Unifor, which represents most unionized auto workers in Canada, said Sunday it was informed by GM that there would be no product allocated to the plant in Oshawa, about 60 km from Toronto, after December 2019.

 The Oshawa plant in Canada.

GM employs about 2,500 union staff in Oshawa, which produces both the Chevrolet Impala and Cadillac XTS sedans. It also completes final assembly of the stronger-selling Silverado and Sierra pickup trucks, shipped from Indiana.

GM has begun what is expected to be a long and expensive transition to a new model that embraces electrified and automated vehicles, many of which will be shared rather than owned.

The No. 1 US automaker signalled the latest belt-tightening in late October when it offered buyouts to 50,000 salaried employees in North America, with the aim of reducing headcount by 18,000. It plans to trim executive ranks by 25 percent, the source said.

With US car sales lagging, several car plants have fallen to just one shift, including its Hamtramck and Lordstown, assembly plant.

Losing money

A rule of thumb for the automotive industry is that if a plant is running below 80 percent of production capacity, it is losing money. GM has several plants running well below that.

Consultancy LMC estimates that Lordstown will operate at just 31 percent of production capacity in 2018.

Rivals Ford Motor Co and Fiat Chrysler Automobiles NV have both curtailed US car production. Ford said in April it planned to stop building nearly all cars in North America.


Self-driving cars pose crucial question: who to blame in a crash

                WASHINGTON: A debate over who to blame - or sue - when a self-driven car hits someone is holding up legislation the industry says it needs to advance.

“If another driver hits you, it’s clear who the driver is,” Sarah Rooney, senior director of federal and regulatory affairs for the American Association for Justice, said. “It’s the human being.”

Not so when a fully self-driving car hits another vehicle or a pedestrian. Then the fault may lie with the manufacturer and the software, or with the owner if updates have not been properly installed.

And if the manufacturer is as fault, a victim may seek to sue under product liability standards, as with a conventional car.

The vehicles are still in the beta stage but the issues have held up legislation that would allow carmakers to test and sell tens of thousands of autonomous vehicles, something the industry says it needs to fully develop and eventually market the technology to consumers.

A bill to do that sailed through the House several years ago but has been bogged down in the Senate over the liability question.

A move to merge the bill with must-pass legislation earlier this month faltered over an initiative by some manufacturers to include language that would prevent consumers from suing or forming class-action cases. Instead, the consumers would have to submit disputes to binding arbitration, something that is common with technology products but not automobiles.

That idea faced resistance from safety groups and trial lawyers, who are influential among Senate Democrats. The measure was pulled on the eve of a committee vote and supporters say they are still working to address the liability issue in the hopes of moving the legislation forward this year.

Uber crash

A handful of crashes involving Tesla Inc. vehicles with human drivers using the company’s Autopilot system, as well as the death of a pedestrian struck by an Uber Technologies Inc. self-driving test car in 2018, has focused attention on the issue of liability on vehicles now under development that have no steering wheels, gas pedals or other accommodation for human drivers.

Rooney, whose group represents trial lawyers who oppose limits on lawsuits, said liability issues will have to be worked out before any legislation authorizing the use of more automated vehicles on U.S. roads should proceed.

A group of 15 consumer advocacy groups including Rooney’s association wrote a letter on May 17 to leaders on the House Energy and Commerce’s consumer protection subcommittee opposing mandatory arbitration. They expressed concern that automated vehicles may someday be operated by Uber or other companies and come with clauses to their terms of service.

“Unless legislation prevents manufacturers from doing so, they will insert extremely broad forced arbitration clauses into their contracts, blocking consumers from meaningful remedies if they are hurt or their privacy violated,” the letter read. “Even pedestrians’ claims could be kept out of court.”

South Dakota Republican Senator John Thune has proposed legislation calling for the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration to exempt as many as 15,000 self-driving vehicles per manufacturer from human-driving safety standards.

The number would rise to 80,000 within three years. Currently, an automaker can produce 2,500 of the vehicles for testing.

Thune’s bill

“Providing the automotive industry with the tools they need to safely test and deploy automated vehicles across the nation will create thousands of jobs and generate billions of dollars in investment,” Thune, who is a member of the Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee, said in a statement.

The measure doesn’t address the arbitration issue, something Thune says should be considered separately. But opponents of the measure fear granting the exemptions before liability issues are worked out will give carmakers carte blanche to put thousands of self-driving cars on the road before the legal rules are set.

Jason Levine, executive director of Center for Auto Safety, said the threat of litigation has served consumers as an important check on auto manufacturers for decades.

“Too often the most effective counterweight to vehicle defects and manufacturers prioritizing profits over safety has not been the federal government, but instead has been the threat of litigation by crash victims,” he said.

The issue is even more important with the advent of self-driving car technology, Levine said.

Tech companies

“Consumers are right to wonder who will be held responsible for the defective computer code which operates a motor vehicle they are in when it kills or maims another human being,” he said. “Who will be held responsible for preventable tragedies, whether it a passenger, or vehicle owner, or the manufacturer, or an individual software engineer will be determined by choices made by Congress.”

Rooney said the friction about liability lies in the fact that self-driving cars are attracting interest from technology companies that do not have long histories in the auto industry. Traditional automakers know “if you manufacture a faulty ignition switch, you’re going to be held accountable,”she said.

“The tech companies that are interested in getting into the space have been allowed to use forced arbitration at will,” she said. “They do not want to get rid of it. If this was traditional auto manufacturers, this debate would probably be over and there would be a bill.”

Self-driving car supporters have argued that existing tort law contains principles for allocating fault and apportioning liability among parties.

“Decades of motor vehicle law have been applied to countless new technologies in the past and have already been applied to AVs,” Ariel Wolf, general counsel to the Self-Driving Coalition, which represents companies such as Ford Motor Co., Uber Technologies Inc., Lyft Inc. and Waymo LLC, said.

Missy Cummings, director of Duke University’s Humans and Autonomy Lab, said Congress should not rush to add new regulations for self-driving cars - or reduce them - while the technology is still in development.

“I think the experimental exemptions that we have are fine,” she said.

Many automakers have quietly backed off pronouncements made in the middle of the last decade that would have resulted in many more self-driving cars being on the road, she said.

“Without explicitly saying it, a lot of companies are realizing that self-driving cars are much further off than we initially realised,” she said.

Wolf said despite the intense debate over legal issues, self-driving cars have the potential to drastically reduce the number of car crashes and deaths on US roads.

“With an estimated 36,000 lives lost on US roads last year, autonomous vehicles offer a transformative opportunity to save lives, unlock new economic and mobility opportunities, and promote American leadership and innovation,” he said.


VW making masks in China for its staff at European plants

                BEIJING: Volkswagen AG is making masks in China for distribution to Volkswagen plant employees in Europe, the German automaker said as it prepares to restart European production.

Volkswagen will be able to produce 1.6 million masks per month in the coastal city of Tianjin, where it has car plants with partner FAW Group.

It plans to send the first shipment of masks to Germany at the start of May, the company said in a statement on Thursday.


The million stitch Rolls-Royce Phantom

                GOODWOOD: An enchanting new Rolls-Royce Phantom has been commissioned by a Stockholm-based entrepreneur with an extraordinary passion for flowers and the result is a sanctuary of true luxury, a vision of flowers, created with a million embroidered stitches.

The patron, with a wife and two of four children named after flowers, challenged the Rolls-Royce Bespoke Collective comprising designers, craftspeople and engineers, to envision a car that immerses its occupants in a beguiling floral scene.

Torsten Müller Ötvös, Chief Executive, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars, commented, “The Rose Phantom is a stunning
iteration of a contemporary Rolls-Royce. Our extraordinary craftspeople at the Home of Rolls-Royce have
achieved, with this car, something which can only be described as sublime.

"The work of our Bespoke Collective is the best in the world. When I look at creations like this car, it is with a sense of pride that I know that these skills could not be replicated anywhere else in the world. This is undoubtedly one of the greatest Rolls-Royce Phantoms of its generation.”

The Rose Garden in Goodwood, West Sussex, served as the primary point of inspiration for Ieuan Hatherall, a Bespoke Designer for Rolls-Royce.

This Rose Garden is the only place in the world that the Phantom Rose is grown. Bred exclusively for Rolls-Royce by British Rose Breeder Philip Harkness of Harkness Roses, the Phantom Rose grows in the courtyard of the marque’s Global Centre of Luxury Manufacturing Excellence at Goodwood in West Sussex, England.

Ieuan Hatherall commented, “There is a transcendent beauty when a rose garden is in full bloom. The patron wanted to create that same feeling of awe; an abundance of flowers to lift the spirit and celebrate nature’s decadent beauty, in the Rose Phantom’s serene interior.”

The Peacock Blue exterior of the Rose Phantom is punctuated with a Charles Blue twinned-coachline that
intertwines organically like the stem of a rose, combining to introduce the rose motif, an indication of both the colours and the treatment within. The wheels echo the design and are embellished with a twinned pinstripe, also in Charles Blue.

On opening the coach doors, one first encounters the embroidery on the inside of the rear doors, but it is not
until entering the rear cabin that one fully encounters the extraordinary extent of the satin stitch creation.

The Phantom Rose is illustrated in varying stages of maturity, from bud to full bloom, in an asymmetrical design that appears to grow across the roof lining, from the rear of the car. The marque’s fabled starlight headliner illuminates the scene as the roses are interspersed with individually placed fibre-optic lights.

In the rear compartment, Serenity Seating with a soft calf rest cushion adopts the inverted colour-way of the exterior as sumptuous Charles Blue leather is accented with Peacock Blue piping.

From here, one can admire Phantom’s Gallery, created as a centrepiece of the interior. Stems of embroidered roses climb through the glass fronted fascia, providing a spectacle for the motor car’s occupants.

At the request of the patron, colour is introduced in the form of Peacock and Adonis Blue butterflies, imbuing movement to the elegant motif.

The patron’s family also played a creative role; his wife designed the umbrellas whilst his daughter, Magnolia, defined the exterior hue of this Phantom. The patron commented, “I wanted to have flowers and roses everywhere. It became an amazing piece of art.”


Prince Charles mocked after saying his car runs on wine and cheese

Prince Charles said his blue 1970 sports car uses E85 fuel produced using a blend of 85% ethanol, food waste and 15% unleaded petrol. — dpa
LONDON: British heir to the throne Prince Charles has revealed that his beloved Aston Martin DB6 drophead has been converted to run on surplus wine and cheese, prompting much ridicule on social media.

The royal told the BBC his blue 1970 sports car uses E85 fuel produced using a blend of 85% ethanol, food waste and 15% unleaded petrol – a combination that is as impractical for the common driver as it is unsustainable, according to experts.

"My old Aston Martin, which I've had for 51 years, runs on – can you believe this – surplus English white wine and whey from the cheese process," the royal told broadcaster BBC in an interview aired on Monday (Oct 11).

News of his alternative fuel was met with mockery on social media, with many Twitter users joking that they too run on wine and cheese. "I for one never have surplus wine," wrote another user.

The royal's revelation also comes at a time when British drivers are facing fuel shortages and forced to queue for hours to fill up with petrol or diesel, prompting some on social media to call this Charles' "let them eat cake" moment.

Environmentalists meanwhile say that ethanol production takes land away from food production. Growing corn for ethanol also involves large amounts of synthetic fertiliser and herbicide.

Prince Charles is a long-standing environmental campaigner and has expressed support for Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg. Aston Martin previously dubbed the royal's DB6 "a sustainable green machine in line with his myriad eco-friendly endeavours".

However Greg Archer, UK director of T&E, a European clean transport campaign group, has since criticised the royal use of biofuel.

"Prince Charles's quaint solution to decarbonise his Aston Martin using a high blend of bioethanol made from cheese and wine wastes should not be mistaken for a serious solution to decarbonise vehicles," Archer told the Guardian newspaper.

Ethanol is usually made from by fermenting the sugar and starch components of plant byproducts from sugarcane and grain, with yeast added. Environmentalist Archer said growing crops just for fuel usage leads to deforestation and worsens the climate crisis.


Collect drinking water from your car

                DETROIT: When Doug Martin read about a billboard in Lima, Peru, that turned humidity into drinking water for the local population, an innovative idea struck: What if cars could be a source of water?

Condensation from vehicle air conditioners, which usually just drips to the pavement below, could be used in much the same way. Martin worked with colleague John Rollinger to bring the idea to life, creating a prototype system that collects, filters and pumps the condensation directly to a faucet located inside the car.

Martin and Rollinger’s innovation is one of a growing number of inventions created by Ford employees in recent years. The increase in innovation – as measured by invention disclosures – is expected to reach a company record in 2016, topping last year’s record of more than 6,000.

The number of inventions isn’t the only figure increasing at Ford; the number of individual Ford employees creating inventions has reached record levels since the start of 2015, with more than 3,500 first-time inventors submitting new innovations.

“The significant increase in first-time inventors is a result of our push to drive innovation in all parts of our business,” said Raj Nair, Ford executive vice president, product development, and chief technical officer. “At the same time, we’ve ramped up global innovation challenges, where we seek new ideas company-wide and then – coupled with input from employees – see how we can further those ideas.”

Ford innovations highlighted today at the company’s annual Further with Ford trends conference include a passenger-centric, remote-control SYNC system that could give ride-sharing passengers control of the infotainment screen; and a transportable device that can move people and objects short distances where cars aren’t accessible.

Martin’s idea to turn cars into a source of water boils down to the reality that fresh water is a scarce resource.

“All that water going to waste should be recovered to serve a purpose,” said Martin. “The real vision is that this idea could eventually help people who don’t have easy access to water, in remote locations such as the Australian Outback, for example. I’m trying to make my twin daughters proud, and make the world a better place for them.”

To test his idea, Martin discovered that a car can produce more than 1.9 litres of water per hour, the equivalent of nearly four water bottles. Naturally, this means fewer roadside stops to pick up bottled water on a road trip, a nice convenience, along with fewer plastic bottles filling trash heaps. But the benefits extend much further, potentially curbing the global water crisis, which, according to the World Health Organisation, affects one in 10 people and leaves hundreds of millions without clean drinking water.

Innovation comes easily to Martin, a Ford powertrain controls engineer who holds roughly 70 auto-related patents. After graduating with bachelor’s and master’s degrees in electrical engineering from the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, he came to work for Ford. He’s been with the company for a combined 22 years.

This Ford innovator envisions a day in which people might say, “I can’t believe we used to waste all that water.”


Race fan takes home new Toyota Vios SE worth over RM85,000

                MEDINI CITY: The conclusion of the Toyota Gazoo Racing (TGR) racing festival in Medini City, Iskandar Puteri, Johor saw Muhammad Haye Nafiqi bin Saidin winning a brand-new Toyota Vios SE worth over RM85,000.

During his visit to the festival, he managed to correctly answer a few questions during the event in MAEPS, Serdang and submitted his entry for the lucky draw to become a new lucky owner.

“I have always dreamed of owning a Vios but never in my dreams did I imagine I would win one. I went to watch the Vios Challenge because I enjoy watching motor racing and together with some friends, we went to see Fattah Amin race.

"A couple of weeks later, I received a call from someone in UMW Toyota Motor telling me that I won the car. I am just so happy. It is perfect timing for me too because I will be getting married soon and will get to use the Vios as my wedding car,” said the proud 27-year old technician from Selangor.

Haye travelled to Medini City in Johor for this weekend’s racing action and to receive his prize that was presented to him by UMW Toyota Motor deputy chairman Akio Takeyama during the close of the event.

Another Toyota Vios SE will be available for visitors to the Medini City TGR racing festival and the winner will be announced once all the entries have been verified by auditors.


Mercedes-AMG springs special edition S 63 4MATIC Cabriolet

STUTTGART: Mercedes-Benz's sports car and performance brand is celebrating its 130th anniversary this year with the special edition Mercedes-AMG S 63 4MATIC Cabriolet "Edition 130".

Distinguished by exquisite appointments, the special edition will celebrate its world premiere at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit.

With the high-gloss special colour "alubeam silver" paint finish, the Bordeaux red fabric top and the matt black 20-inch 10-spoke wheels with high-sheen rim flanges, the Mercedes-AMG S 63 4MATIC Cabriolet "Edition 130" presents an exclusive version of the open-top four seater.

The car has a 5.5 litre V8-biturbo engine with 585hp output and 900Nm maximum torque, the performance-oriented 4MATIC all-wheel drive, acceleration from 0 to 100kph in 3.9 seconds and the high performance composite brake system.

"The first automobiles from Carl Benz and Gottlieb Daimler were open vehicles. Mercedes-AMG honours this achievement of the founding fathers with this highly exclusive cabriolet, and demonstrates the developments the automobile has undergone in the last 130 years, developments which would have been inconceivable at that time", said Tobias Moers, Chairman of the Board of Mercedes-AMG GmbH.

The exclusive designo nappa leather upholstery in Bengal red/black or optionally crystal grey/black as well as the trim elements in AMG carbon/piano lacquer black also underscore the special position of this limited edition, of which there are only 130 available.

A badge in the middle console and an engraving on the steering wheel bezel also highlight this fact. Brake calipers painted red and floor mats with Bengal red or crystal grey edging round off the visual impression.

Every customer receives a tailor-made AMG Indoor Car Cover with the embroidered lettering "Edition 130 – 1 of 130" to protect this valuable vehicle from dust in the garage. Furthermore, at the handover of the keys the customer receives the Welcome Package with an Edition 130 badge key ring and an aluminium box for the handing over of the vehicle's key.

The "Edition 130" celebrates its world premiere and sales release at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit. Market launch begins in April.


EV charging shifts gears from range to speed

                NEW YORK: Range anxiety is slowly giving way to charging speed as the critical metric among the swelling crowd of EV-curious consumers.

On this front, the machines vary wildly. But like many things in EV-land, it’s a little wonky. Time needed to top up isn’t simply a specification as much as an equation that depends largely on two variables: the capacity of the charger and the capacity of the car itself to take a charge.

The Bolt, for example, can take on 55 kW, which is the limiting factor at a 100 kW charger. If one thinks of the stream of electrons as a liquid, this would be the width of the hose and the size of the funnel.

The narrative to date has been about the hose: how fast can it pump?

But the funnel, coming to the fore, is about to be a massive story.

Last week, Lucid announced the first deliveries of its Air sedan, which offers a peak charging rate of around 300 kW.

At the proper plug, the sinuous sled will be able to add 482km of range in 20 minutes. In topping up, the Lucid zips right past Porsche, which planted its flag in this battleground early on, dialling up the max charge capacity on its Taycan models to 270kW.

Following in order of charging capacity is Tesla and then Volvo — neck and neck with Ford at 150kW. Jaguar’s I-Pace clocks in at 104kW, ahead of the Bolt and Nissan LEAF, down around 50kW.

Massaging seats are a treat, but real luxury in the future of transportation is not having to spend an extra half-hour at the Vince Lombardi Service Plaza on the New Jersey Turnpike.

But nearly all of the currently available EVs are about to become a bit passé at the electron pump.

Hyundai has three vehicles coming by the end of next year that will charge at Porsche-like speed; this week, the Korean automaker announced a fourth, a bruiser SUV that will drop in 2024. GMC’s Hummer EV, already in the wild, may beat the whole lot with a peak charge rate around 350kW (think: 160km in 10 minutes).

READ MORE: Big push for electric mobility in Malaysia, but is it enough?

Meanwhile, charging networks, many showered in SPAC money, are standing up extra fast pumps in a bid to differentiate themselves in advance of the coming wave of electric vehicles.

It’s a dynamic not unlike smartphones in the age of Instagram; the iPhone chips are only as slick as the cell towers. If both sides are eager to please it’s the kind of consumer-centric virtuous cycle that could further accelerate EV adoption — ultra-fast sounds good.

EVgo Inc., a network of 850 charging stations in the US, is installing a 350kW unit in almost every new site that it builds. “We’re skating to where the puck is going and the puck is going to higher power,” said chief commercial officer Jonathan Levy.

At Electrify America’s 670 or so US stations, a smattering of 50kW pumps have been torn out; 150kW units are now the minimum and about half of the sites have two 350kW boxes just waiting for the parade of vehicles from Lucid and Hummer.

“Charge rate is extremely important … and it will start to accelerate exponentially in the next 12 to 18 months,” said Robert Barossa, EA’s senior director of sales, business development and marketing.

“Everyone’s kind of pushing faster and faster and faster, because that’s what consumers want.”

The conventional wisdom to date has been that the charging networks have largely been waiting for the cars to get up to speed.

But they soon may find themselves rushing to keep up. You can bet the first Hummer driver to trundle up to a “fast” 50kW plug is going to want to speak with a manager.


Too lazy to get out of the car at the car wash? This app is for you

                MUNICH: The day has come where a smartphone in your hand could do a better job of washing your car than a sponge and some soapy water.

Car wash manufacturer Washtec has its sights on establishing an international app called EasyCarWash that allows customers to book and pay at their car washes.

Motorists can then drive directly into the car wash and choose their preferred program by mobile phone - without even having to get up and walk over to pay for the cleaning.

"You can get out, but you don't have to," CFO Axel Jaeger said at the company headquarters in Augsburg near here.

To ensure that the right car is washed, the car wash scans the licence plate, and matches it to the order made by the driver.

The German-based car washing company, whose products are used in petrol stations around the world, believes that the offer is particularly interesting for small or mid-sized car wash operators, while bigger stations may develop their own apps.

The car wash company promises its customers higher sales with the use of the app, predicting that drivers with the app would spend twice as much on car washes as other customers.


Covid-19: BMW Welt, the BMW Museum and BMW Group Classic temporarily closed

                MUNICH: The BMW Welt, the BMW Museum and BMW Group Classic will be closed to the public from March 17 until further notice.

The move is in line with the Bavarian state's measures to contain the spread of the Covid-19 pandemic.

All public events and tours at these locations have also been cancelled.

Customers who have booked a vehicle will be contacted directly by their respective BMW dealerships on when and where to collect their cars.


Mercedes-Benz presenting latest 9G-Tronic in C and E-Class plug-in diesel hybrids

                GENEVA:  Mercedes-Benz will debut two new pre-production models during the Geneva Motor Show that will feature its latest nine-speed 9G-TRONIC hybrid transmission in the C- and E-Class plug-in diesel hybrid variants.

Much like the S 560 e, the C- and E-Class plug-in diesel hybrids will in future use its third-generation hybrid technology with deliveries expected to begin within a few short months.

Also new is an intelligent, connected variant of the Mercedes‑Benz wall-box that will make for easier charging while offering a series of additional functions via a new app.

Plug-in hybrids represent a key technology on the road to a locally emission-free future for the motor vehicle by offering owners the benefits of two worlds, where in town they can run in all-electric mode and while on long journeys they can utilise an efficient long-range combustion engine.

The German automaker will for the first time combine its four-cylinder diesel engine with its third-generation hybrid drive to achieve higher efficiency, better ride comfort and dynamic performance as well as an impressive range.

The company is now opting for this powertrain to be fitted from its C-Class and upwards.

A key advantage in the strategic hybrid initiative is offered by the carmaker's intelligent, modular hybrid concept that's designed to be scalable and can be transferred to a large number of rear-wheel drive model series and body styles as well as left- and right-hand drive variants.

Powering the cars will be the OM 654 four-cylinder diesel engine mated to the latest-generation nine-speed 9G-TRONIC hybrid transmission with a 90kW electric output, an added electric torque of 440Nm and an electric range of around 50km.

There will be a 13.5kWh lithium-nickel-manganese-cobalt (Li-NMC) made it possible for the cell capacity to be increased from 22 to a 37 amp-hour (Ah) battery to power the electric motor which can double as an on-board charger with a charging rate from 3.6 to 7.2kW.

A discharged battery can be fully recharged in two hours via a wallbox or seven hours from the convenience of one's own home via a conventional domestic power socket.

The third-generation hybrid technology supports the driver with further improved, intelligent drive management. Through the extended use of data from the navigation system and information from the camera and the radar sensor, third-generation hybrid vehicles can look ahead, well beyond the driver's field of vision, and adjust to the specific speed/route profile.

Events such as negotiating towns on the way to the destination are taken into account when planning the available electrical energy, and during recuperation and thermal conditioning of the drive components.

In addition to a superlative driving experience with a total torque of 700Nm, available from as low as 1,400rpm, the new plug-in diesel hybrids will offer added comfort.

The high-voltage on-board electrical system supplies not only the powertrain components, but also the electric refrigerant compressor and the high-voltage heater booster.

Both allow pre-entry climate control of the interior not only in summer, but also in winter.

Also the S 560 e has an all-electric range of around 50km and its hybrid drive system combines its 270kW (367 hp) of electric power with a V6 petrol engine with an electric power output of 90kW.

The same OM 654 four-cylinder diesel aluminium engine will be utilised with a stepped-bowl combustion process – named after the shape of the combustion bowl in the piston, and includes NANOSLIDE coating for the cylinder walls.

The internal friction has been reduced by around 25%. The new engine also benefits from the use of fourth-generation common-rail injection with pressures of up to 2,050 bar.

On top of this, the engine is also more compact than its predecessor. All components relevant for efficient emissions reduction are installed directly on the engine. Thanks to the near-engine configuration, exhaust after-treatment has a low heat loss and excellent operating conditions.

Both clutch and electric motor are housed in the hybrid drive unit and the compact design was achieved by integrating and connecting the separating clutch, torsional vibration damper and torque converter lockup clutch within the rotor of the electric motor.

The torque converter with its powerful and highly efficient hydraulic circuit offers the customary smoothness when pulling away in hybrid mode.

Developed together with Bosch as part of the EM-motive joint venture, the electric motor was specially designed for the 9G-TRONIC plug-in hybrid transmission. The equally new power electronics have allowed further increases in output and torque compared with the second generation.

The electric performance of 90kW and 440Nm has helped raise the vehicle's electric mode top speed from 130 to 140kph.


Proton announces new insurance programme for car buyers

                SUBANG JAYA: Proton car buyers can now get an enhanced insurance product through six panel insurers.

Known as the Proton Insurance Programme (PIP), the offer is applicable to new car buyers and Proton car owners who are renewing their insurance. It is available at all authorised Proton outlets.

The six panel insurers are Allianz General Insurance Company (M) Sdn Bhd, Liberty Insurance Berhad, AmGeneral Insurance Berhad, Zurich General Insurance Malaysia Berhad, Etiqa General Takaful Berhad and Zurich General Takaful Malaysia Berhad.

PIP offers the following benefits to Proton car owners:

> Key Care Cover: In the event of loss or damage due to an actual or attempted theft, robbery or house break-in, customers enjoy free key replacement up to a sum of RM1,000.
> Flood Relief Allowance: In the event of damage due to flooding, flash floods, overflowing of waterways, drains, rivers or mud slides, customers can claim an allowance of up to RM1,000.
> All Driver Coverage: Coverage for all drivers where no compulsory excess is applicable except where the authorised driver at the time of the accident is 21 and below or holds a provisional or learner driver’s license.

> Insured/Policyholder Personal Accident Coverage: Personal accident coverage of up to RM15,000 applicable for private car registrations.
> Waiver of Betterment Costs: For vehicles up to 10-years old and subject to said vehicle being repaired at any authorised Proton Body & Paint (B&P) outlets.
> Agreed Value Coverage: In the event of a total loss or theft, customers will enjoy full reimbursement of the sum amount insured for the first 12 years of their vehicle’s life.

“Proton is constantly looking for ways to deliver more value and with the Proton Insurance Programme, we are able to ensure that old, current and new customers alike are eligible to receive the same benefits just by renewing their insurance policy with us," said its CEO, Dr Li Chunrong.


UK-built Honda Civic unveiled and all set for global export

                LONDON: The 10th generation of the Honda Civic has been unveiled at the company’s UK manufacturing base in Swindon, with production of the car under way and the first units already landing in North America.

Honda of the UK Manufacturing (HUM) has recently become the global production hub for the new Civic hatchback, with the model set to be exported to more than 70 countries around the world, including European markets, North America and Canada.

The Swindon plant is Honda’s flagship production facility in Europe, employing 3,600 people, and plays a key role in Honda’s global manufacturing network. The company has invested a further £200m into the factory in preparation for production of the new Civic, bringing Honda’s total investment in HUM to more than £2.2 billion since 1989.

The launch of the 10th generation Civic builds upon Honda’s strong recent sales performance in Europe. Honda is Europe’s fastest growing mainstream brand in 2016 with sales growing by 33%, compared to 2015, as the brand progresses towards its next sales ambition of 200,000 unit sales in Europe.

Civic is Honda’s biggest selling vehicle worldwide, and this latest generation is the result of one of the most comprehensive new model developments undertaken by the brand. The development team behind the new Civic employed the latest approaches to body construction, vehicle aerodynamics and chassis design in building the latest Civic.


Proton signs MoU to develop Indonesian national car

                SUBANG JAYA: Proton Holdings Bhd has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to develop and manufacture an Indonesian national car.

The MoU was signed between Proton and its Indonesian partner, PT Adiperkasa Citra Lestari, at a ceremony at the Proton Centre of Exellence here.

The signing of the MoU was witnessed by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak, Proton chairman Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad and Indonesian President Joko Widodo.

The MoU was signed by Proton Holdings Bhd chief executive officer Datuk Abdul Harith Abdullah and witnessed by Malaysian ambassador to Indonesia Datuk Seri Zahrain Mohamed Hashim.

PT Adiperkasa Citra Lestari chef executive Abdullah Mahmud Hendropriyono signed on behalf of Proton’s Indonesian partner, witnessed by Indonesia's ambassador to Malaysia Herman Prayitno.


Nissan IMs concept makes its debut

                DETROIT: The Nissan IMs concept, with its revolutionary new proportions and stretched interior space is designed to create an entirely new vehicle segment, the elevated sports sedan.

The pure electric all-wheel drive concept vehicle with full autonomous drive capability, made its world debut today at the 2019 North American International Auto Show. It will be on public display throughout the show's run, January 19 – 27, at Detroit's Cobo Center.

"This bold Nissan IMs concept represents the birth of an entirely new segment of vehicle – an elevated, electrified sports sedan," said Denis Le Vot, senior vice president, chairman of Management Committee, Nissan North America, Inc., during a press conference revealing the IMs concept.

"It makes sense that the first automaker to bring the world a mass-market EV would bring you the future of the electric high-performance sports sedan."

Le Vot also announced that following last week's debut of the longer range 2019 Nissan LEAF e+ at the Consumer Electronics Show, Nissan will launch an additional seven electric vehicles by 2022.

The IMs concept's uniquely powerful exterior and interior designs are made possible by the innovative electric and autonomous technology that embodies Nissan Intelligent Mobility, the company's vision for changing how cars are powered, driven and integrated into society.

The concept's powertrain utilizes a high-performance all-wheel-drive (AWD) system powered by a pair of electric motors located at the front and rear of the vehicle.

The vehicle's electric powertrain consists of dual electric motors (front and rear) generates 483hp and 590 lb-ft of torque and a 115-kWh battery provides an estimated range of 380 miles on a single charge.

The IMs concept's standout exterior transforms the styling of a traditional sedan into a vehicle with provocative proportions, sporty character and excellent aerodynamics. It also seamlessly marries futuristic high-tech qualities with timeless Japanese accents.

Nissan's signature V-motion design language, which is incorporated throughout the 2019 Nissan model lineup, is emphasized on the IMs concept's grille-less front fascia through the shape and placement of the headlamps.

In Autonomous Drive mode, the IMs concept's headlights and rear combination light turn blue and the lighting travels continuously from front-to-rear to notify pedestrians and other drivers of its autonomous status.

The exterior also features holographic rear tail lamps and a B-pillar-less 4-door body structure with reverse-opening rear doors for easy interior access. To emphasize its Japanese character, a traditional Japanese Asanoha geometric graphic pattern has been applied in gold over the IMs concept's smoked glass roof surface.

The exterior is finished with a special "liquid metal" paint that is meant to suggest an imaginary mineral on the moon. The qualities of this color, inspired by the Japanese kimono, enhance the IMs concept's unique and beautiful sculptural form in a subtle way, with shifts in gradation.

The IMs concept's interior represents an entirely new way of visualizing how future commuters will travel in an autonomously driven world. Putting a priority on the vehicle's interior space, all powertrain components have been tucked completely away underneath the cabin floor.

In manual driving mode, the IMs concept's interior becomes a driver-centric cockpit with advanced driver-assistance technology and multi-level information displays, giving full vehicle control to the driver.

In autonomous drive mode, the IMs concept can transform from an engaging driver's car to a fully autonomous vehicle, allowing the driver to engage in conversation with passengers, catch up on work or just enjoy the numerous entertainment options.


Honda Malaysia opens its biggest 4S centre

                JOHOR BARU: Honda Malaysia and Kah Motor Co Sdn Bhd has opened the biggest Honda 4S Centre in Malaysia, located in Tebrau here.

The largest Honda dealer group in Malaysia, Kah Motor expanded its capacity to serve customers better with its latest Honda 4S Centre which houses Sales, Services, Spare Parts and a Body and Paint Centre under one roof.

Honda Malaysia president and chief operating officer Roslan Abdullah said, “In 2016, the Southern region which consists of Johor, Malacca and Negri Sembilan contributed about 20% of Honda Malaysia’s total sales, translating to more than 18,600 units and was the second highest sales contributor.

"Of the three states, Johor accounted for 70% of the regional sales last year. Among the seven models offered by Honda Malaysia, the City is the best-selling model in the state.”

This increased sales in Johor has also led to an escalated service intake.

“Johor recorded a service intake of more than 128,000 units in 2016, which was an increase of 15% from 2015. With Kah Motor’s enlarged service capacity of 100 vehicles per day, we will be able to serve customers’ after sales service requirements even more efficiently.The expansion to integrate a Body and Paint Centre into one location adds further convenience,” Roslan added.

This event also takes place in an auspicious year where Honda and Kah Motor celebrate their 60 years of strong support and history of mutual trust built since Kah Motor’s founder, the late Tan Sri Loh Boon Siew and the founder of Honda, the late Soichiro Honda met back in 1957.

A total of RM40 million was invested into this biggest Honda 4S Centre in Malaysia that has a total build-up area of 142,389 square feet.

The investments were in land, building, equipment and furniture.

The availability of 37 service bays is expected to cater to more vehicles, and will be servicing up to 36,000 units per year.

For customers’ comfort, the new Honda 4S Centre offers a large Customer Lounge with Café Counter, an Executive Lounge, complimentary Wi-Fi services, Kid’s Corner and Surau.

In the first quarter of 2017, Honda Malaysia recorded a 45% year-on-year increase in sales as compared to the same period in 2016.

This achievement has enabled the brand to maintain the No.2 position in overall Total Industry Volume (TIV) and No.1 position in the Non-National segment.

Honda Malaysia also achieved 20.5% of market share in March 2017 which is the first time achieving more than 20% and also the highest market share in Honda Malaysia sales history.

Customers can contact Kah Motor Co. Sdn. Bhd. (Tebrau) at 07-357 7722 or visit them at No.20, Jalan Kencana Emas 2, Kawasan Perindustrian Tebrau III, 81100 Johor Bahru.


Indonesia says Tesla strikes US$5bil deal to buy nickel products

                JAKARTA: US carmaker Tesla has signed contracts worth about US$5 billion (RM22.3bil) to buy materials for their batteries from nickel processing companies in Indonesia, a senior cabinet minister told CNBC Indonesia.

Southeast Asia's biggest economy has been trying to get Tesla to set up a production facility in the country, which has major nickel reserves. President Joko Widodo met with Tesla founder Elon Musk earlier this year to drum up investment.

"We are still in constant negotiation with Tesla ... but they have started buying two excellent products from Indonesia," Coordinating Minister for Maritime and Investment Affairs Luhut Pandjaitan said in an interview broadcast today.

He said Tesla signed a five-year contract with nickel processing companies operating out of Morowali in Sulawesi island. The nickel materials will be used in Tesla's lithium batteries.

Tesla did not immediately respond to a Reuters email seeking comment.

Indonesia is keen to develop electric vehicles and batteries industries at home and had stopped exports of nickel ore to ensure supply for investors. The move had successfully attracted investments from Chinese steel giants and South Korean companies like LG and Hyundai.

However, most nickel investment so far have gone to production of crude metal such as nickel pig iron and ferronickel.

The government plans to impose export tax on these metals to boost revenue while encouraging more domestic production of higher-value products, a senior official said last week.


Perodua transmission plant opens in Seremban

                SEREMBAN: Perodua has opened a plant here which will will make automatic and manual gearboxes as well as other parts.

Perodua said  the RM200mil Akashi Kikai Industry (M) Sdn Bhd is the country's most advanced automatic transmission plant. The plant in Sendayan TechValley covers 13,000 square metres and production capacity is 200,000 units per year.

Perodua chairman Tan Sri Asmat Kamaludin said the plant would be working flat out to meet Perodua's target to hit a new sales record of 208,000 vehicles.

Perodua president and CEO Datuk Aminar Rashid Salleh said that Akashi Kikai Industry (M) plant is an important milestone for Perodua’s five-year strategic roadmap to become more competitive.

He expressed hope that more local vendors would be given a chance by Daihatsu and Akashi Kikai Industry to participate in future models.

Akashi-Kikai Industry shareholders comprised Japan-based Akashi-Kikai Industry co Ltd 51%, Daihatsu Motor Corporation Sdn Bhd 39% and Perodua 10%.

The plant was opened on Wednesday by Negri Sembilan Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan.