The Land Rover of wheelchairs is designed to tackle any hiking trail

The Scuttler's most prominent feature is a continuous track, a kind of propulsion borrowed from bulldozers and tanks, instead of the classic wheelchair wheels. — All pix by dpa

BERLIN: Part chair, part tank, the off-road wheelchair known as the Scuttler is one of a kind, according to creator Martin Ebner.

"Most all-terrain wheelchairs just have thick tyres, and that's not enough," says the hobby tinkerer and engineer based in Germany, whose remote-controllable wheelchair is built to handle almost any kind of terrain and incline.

Its most prominent feature is a continuous track, a kind of propulsion borrowed from bulldozers and tanks, instead of the classic wheelchair wheels.

Hiking trails in many other parts of the world mostly aren't made with people in wheelchairs in mind. An excursion in the mountains is unimaginable for many with impaired mobility, but Ebner wants to change that.

"I want to test it on the ski slopes soon," he says, ramping up the speed. Ebner's goal is to enable handicapped and elderly travellers who can't clamber about in the rocky landscape to enjoy the mountains. His creation could also be adapted for use as a rescue stretcher or in forestry or for the harvest, he says as examples.

Ebner, a trained aerospace electronics engineer, spent hours sketching plans and making a wooden model to figure out the height of the shock absorbers.

He ordered chains, track, an engine and gears, and had the metal parts lasered. He also developed a sensor so if the wheelchair leans at a dangerous angle, the driver is alerted, visually and with a sound. The wheelchair now stops before it tips, and can be brought back onto safe terrain by remote control.

After half a year of tinkering, welding and screwing parts together, the chair now moves at a maximum speed of 6 kilometres per hour.

He is not done, however. "I'd like to make the suspension even softer and maybe a bit more sporty," he says, gazing critically at his creation. It also still needs to be painted and fitted with a GPS.

Right now, the chair's battery lasts just under two hours, but Ebner wants it to manage three to four hours. There are plenty of places this chair could go, he says, adding that if companies are interested, he could scale up production.

The kit could be made out of aluminium too, he says, and someone could assemble 90 per cent of it remotely - with the right instructions.

For now, the Scuttler is for his mum, who is 80 years old and no longer as mobile as she used to be.

Ebner wants tourists to be able to set off spontaneously, and to head out wherever they please. "Imagine people could just go out into the woods again, up to a castle then over to a cafe two kilometres away."


Aston Martin sales surge, Valkyrie delays hit profit

                LONDON: Aston Martin said sales to dealers in 2021 surged 82%, even as the British luxury automaker forecast lower-than-expected annual adjusted core earnings due to delays in shipments of its limited-edition Valkyrie sports car.

Aston Martin said 10 Valkyries were shipped in the fourth quarter, fewer than previously planned.

Aston Martin, fictional agent James Bond's carmaker of choice, said it expected annual adjusted core earnings to be about £15 million (RM86mil) lower than expected.

However, it said the Valkyries that had not yet been shipped were already allocated to customers, with significant deposits.

"The Valkyrie programme is now running at rate for 2022 having focused on delivering with no compromises in the face of supply chain challenges and huge complexity in the production ramp-up which resulted in a timing impact for 2021," chief executive officer Tobias Moers said in a statement.

Overall, the company sold 6,182 cars last year, helped by demand for its first sport utility vehicle, the DBX. Shares were up 1.3% in early trade.

Pandemic travel restrictions have left many wealthy consumers with more disposable income, fuelling demand for premium and luxury cars.

On Thursday, another British luxury carmaker, Bentley, reported a record year as global sales jumped 31%.

Since going public in 2018, Aston Martin shares have slumped around 30% and the company has burnt through cash, prompting billionaire chairman Lawrence Stroll to buy a stake in the company as part of plans to raise money.

The company said its cash balance at the end of 2021 was around £420 million (RM2.4bil), higher than anticipated.


Renault leans towards making Alpine on its own, not with Lotus

                PARIS: Renault SA is leaning towards developing the platform for its new Alpine sports-car models on its own rather than pursuing co-development with Geely’s Lotus Cars, according to people familiar with the situation.

The French carmaker’s engineers have sufficient expertise to make the platform, which the company views as a key piece of rebooting its brand, said the people.

Lotus is controlled by China’s Zhejiang Geely Holding Group Co.

The likely decision doesn’t reflect soured relations with Geely, with which Renault partners on other projects, two of the people said, who asked not to be identified discussing private information.

Renault chief executive officer Luca de Meo has been working to turn around the French carmaker, boosting Alpine’s allure and pushing ahead on electrification.

As part of that plan, he rebranded the company’s Formula 1 team as Alpine, and is now developing a full line up of sports-car models to follow.

Best known for its A110 sports coupé, Alpine is set to become fully electric as of 2026.

A spokesman for Alpine said the company is still in discussions with Lotus about the project and the company will communicate a final decision in due course.

A spokesman for Renault declined to comment. Media representatives from Lotus didn’t immediately respond to requests for comment.

Meanwhile, Renault’s talks are ongoing with AutoNation Inc. to start sales of the Alpine sports cars in the US, the people said.

An initial public offering of Alpine is a possibility in the longer term, the 55-year-old CEO said earlier this month.

The company also is reviewing possible investors to help fund its development, he said.

Alpine sales rose 33% last year to 3,546 cars, compared with Renault’s total shipments of about 2.1 million vehicles.

Fans of the Alpine Formula 1 team, which over the past decades clinched numerous racing titles, including a 1978 win at Le Mans, will be converging in the brand’s hometown of Dieppe, France, this weekend to celebrate the victory of its first World Rally Championship 50 years ago.


There may soon be an airbag on your electric scooter or bicycle

                STOCKHOLM: While motorists now have a whole arsenal of active and passive safety devices, this is not yet the case for users of so-called "soft mobility."

Swedish-American equipment manufacturer Autoliv, a reference in the field, is working hard to provide road users using a scooter, bicycle or electric scooter with suitable gear, starting with airbags designed specifically for each mode of transport.

For the moment, it's still under study, although the equipment manufacturer did present several prototypes this week at the Autonomy show in Paris.

Using data collected according to the type of accident, engineers were able to simulate different types of collisions and thus determine the most appropriate solutions.

For stand-up electric scooter users, an airbag placed at the front seems to be the simplest solution for absorbing a shock and avoiding being ejected too violently.

It remains to be seen how best to position it or what level of pressure it should be given. Within a year or two, this type of device could very well have gone through the approval process and be available to various manufacturers and operators.

For motorcycles, scooters and bicycles, the principle remains the same, with the installation of an airbag ready to inflate in case of impact, in addition to driver-worn airbags, which already exist.

The result is quite impressive, with significant bag volume, intended to prevent the biker from being ejected.

At the moment, only Honda has brought this type of solution to its production, on one model for now. Autoliv is still investigating how to optimise this system before offering it to other manufacturers.

Autoliv is also developing an app that will allow users of scooters, bicycles and stand-up electric scooters to obtain a "safety score" based on their riding habits, similar to what the company already offers for car drivers.

In addition to warning the user about potentially dangerous habits, this data can also be shared with the driver's insurer to facilitate, for example, a bonus as a good driver.

This new application should be launched later this year and will be offered for a subscription fee of a few euros per year.

The Swedish-based company is nothing less than a pioneer in driver safety working in the field of seatbelts as early as 1956 and airbags for motorists in 1980.


IGLA device to foil car theft and carjacking

                PUCHONG: Owners of cars such as the Toyota Alphard and Vellfire who are concerned about vehicle theft or car-jacking can check out IGLA which is a digital immobiliser and anti-carjack device for vehicles.

Launched by Pro ICE Sales and Services (M) Sdn Bhd which is based in Puchong, Selangor, the IGLA device works by preventing engine ignition unless a combination code is entered (using the the vehicle's switches or buttons on the dashboard or steering wheel).

"For example, the combination code can be pressing the Volume Up switch and window demister button three times," said Pro ICE general manager Sebastian Tan.

READ MORE:
Toyota Alphard and Vellfire are popular theft targets
NXP tech promises fix to keyless car theft vulnerability

As for the anti car-jack feature, the IGLA device works by shutting down the vehicle engine after the carjackers have driven at least 300 metres away from the crime scene.

The IGLA device assumes that a carjacking has occured if the driver's door is opened, after engine ignition - like a scenario where the driver is forcefully ejected from the car after starting the engine.

Once the carjacked vehicle has travelled 300 metres, the car's hazard lights will activate and prompt the driver to enter the combination code.

If the combination code is not entered, the car's horn will constantly honk and the engine will shut down once the vehicle speed is below 10kph.

Tan said the IGLA device can be fitted in the majority of Continental, Japanese and Korean cars using the Controller Area Network (CAN bus) system.

"No wires will be cut; we only need to connect to the car's power and CAN bus system. The IGLA device is quite small and is about the size of a car transmitter (remote)," said Tan.

For those who prefer not to use a combination code, an option is to pair the IGLA device via Bluetooth to a smartphone (the car can only be started near the smartphone).

Meanwhile, a temporary or permanent bypass of the IGLA device can be done when the car needs to be handed over for servicing or maintenance, or to a valet service.

"For example, a temporary bypass can be done by pressing a switch five times. However, the car cannot be driven above 50kph for more than 15 minutes, or else the IGLA device will be re-armed. This is to prevent theft or unauthorised joyrides," said Tan.

The IGLA device uses Russian technology and installation takes an hour.

The recommended retail price is RM2,000 to RM2,500 (depending on vehicle) and it comes with a one-year warranty.

For details, call Pro ICE at +603 8075 3888.

Also, visit https://proice.com/igla/


Electric cars lack mainstream appeal, says Peugeot chief

                FRANKFURT: Electric cars are only bought by “green addicts” and lack broader appeal needed to reach mainstream consumers, Peugeot chief executive Carlos Tavares said on Tuesday.

“When some markets are cancelling some subsidies, demand collapses,” Tavares said about electric car sales during a conference call arranged to replace a roundtable discussion at the Geneva car show, which was cancelled.

“The battle from now on is that zero emission vehicles become affordable between now and 2025,” Tavares said.

“We are selling our electric vehicles to green addicts. We didn’t move to the pragmatists,” Tavares said, referring to Peugeot’s difficulties in selling electric cars to mainstream consumers.

The lack of a dense charging network, the limited operating range of electric cars as well as uncertainties surrounding the long-term price of electricity, are hindering a broader adoption of electric cars, Tavares said.

This is the reason Peugeot decided to develop vehicle platforms, which are capable of including fully electric, hybrid or just combustion engines.

“So that we can adapt in a very agile way what the consumers are asking,” Tavares said.


Drive like it's the 80s: Don't rely on car tech to save you

                BERLIN: From avoiding potential collisions to keeping you in lane on the highway, your car's assistance systems do plenty to make driving safer.

But as car tech brings us ever closer to entirely taking our hands off the wheel, it's important not to let a car's assistance systems completely take over care of your safety, inspection experts at Germany's Tuv testing agency say.

Even with a feature as useful and simple as cruise control, which lets you take your foot off the accelerator while the car maintains a constant speed, the experts say there's a risk that your concentration will wane, as less input is asked of you.

The same goes for lane change assistants, which give you one less thing to worry about by making sure you're always driving between the lines.

Cruise control can also put you in a tricky situation if you get into a confusing traffic situation or an obstacle suddenly appears in the road, although many new cars do feature a distance-control function that slows the car down in case of a pending collision.

A blind spot assistant will give you a visual or audible warning signal and prompt you to counter-steer if the system thinks you've missed a cyclist or oncoming car. But a system like this should never lead you to become less attentive.

Drivers should still use their car as if driving a model from the 1980s, and assume no software or hardware will keep them safe, the experts say. That means regularly checking the rear view mirrors and glancing backwards, and being ready to brake at all times.


More traffic, more crashes as crowds return home

                KUALA LUMPUR: Traffic on some major highways in the country increased as people returned home after the Chinese New Year holiday.

The Malaysian Highway Authority said there was a 4km congestion at KM263.4 NSE southbound heading from Kuala Kangsar to Ipoh Utara due to a car breaking down and causing an obstruction on the right lane.

Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi had said that a total of 3.8 million vehicles were expected to use highways nationwide for the duration of the Chinese New Year celebration this year.

Meanwhile, the police recorded 1,312 road crashes across the country on the sixth day of Op Selamat 19 on Monday, Bernama reported.

Bukit Aman Traffic Investigation and Enforcement Department director Datuk Seri Mat Kasim Karim said it involved 1,603 vehicles, with cars recording the highest number of cases at 1,160.

This was followed by four-wheel drive vehicles with 210 cases, motorcycles (184), lorries and vans with 19 cases each, buses (five), taxis (four) and one bicycle and a police vehicle.

Op Selamat 19 is being carried out from Jan 18-27 across the country in conjunction with the Chinese New Year festival.

Mat Kasim said traffic congestion was expected to continue with an increase in the number of vehicles using the main routes to the city centre such as Gombak Toll Plaza (east) and Sungai Besi Toll Plaza (south) as people return home after the Chinese New Year holiday which lasted until yesterday.

There was also an increase in the traffic volume along the North-South Expressway (PLUS) at Slim River and Changkat Jering-Ipoh stretches; East Coast Expressway Phase 1 (LPT1); Kuala Lumpur-Karak Expressway and Elite Expressway (Shah Alam-Sepang-Nilai).

“Police advise road users against using the emergency lane as this would obstruct rescue teams from carrying out emergency operations in the event of an accident,” he added.


Pump prices in Singapore hit new highs, with costliest grade above S$4 a litre

                SINGAPORE: Fuel pump prices have climbed to new highs again to breach S$4 for the first time on the back of an imminent ban on Russian oil and increased demand as world economies return to full swing.

According to Fuel Kaki, a pump price tracker set up by the Consumers Association of Singapore, a litre of diesel is now between S$3 (Sinopec) and S$3.08 (Shell, Caltex) - up from S$3-S$3.05 two weeks ago.

A litre of 92-octane petrol is now between S$3.26 (Esso, SPC) and S$3.28 (Caltex) - up from S$3.13-S$3.20.

A litre of the popular 95-octane fuel ranges between S$3.26 (Sinopec) and S$3.33 (Shell, Caltex) - up from S$3.16-S$3.25.

Posted prices of 98-octane petrols are between S$3.73 (Sinopec) and S$3.82 (Shell) - up from S$3.64-S$3.74 - while the so-called premium grade of 98-octane fuels is going for between S$3.86 (Sinopec) and S$4.04 (Shell).

This is the first time petrol has breached the S$4 mark here.

The relentless surge in pump prices started well before Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February, which sparked wide-ranging sanctions against Moscow that have deepened the global supply chain crisis.

The gradual - and then sudden - reopening of economies as the world emerges from the Covid-19 pandemic has also fuelled demand for fuels.

At the same time, producers are struggling to increase production - for instance, restarting refineries which had closed during the pandemic.

RBOB Gasoline, a proxy for refined petroleum products, is now around US$4.20 a gallon, its highest in more than two decades.

The benchmark Brent crude is now above US$117 a barrel, and heading towards its March high of almost US$130 a barrel.


First drive: Toyota Corolla Cross 1.8G

                One arrives, another exits.

We are referring to the launch last week of the Toyota Corolla Cross that also saw the C-HR being retired.

The sports utility vehicle (SUV) love-fest continues and Toyota is hoping its latest model would help boost its coffers in challenging times.

Two versions of the Corolla Cross are on offer: the 1.8V and 1.8G.

They are imported from Thailand and local assembly will start later in the year.

The RM124,000 1.8G variant is now on sale; the RM134,000 1.8V will show up soon but bookings are accepted now.

The 1.8G was available for a media drive a week before the March 25 launch.

With inter-state travel ban still in force because of Covid-19, the route plotted was from Shah Alam to Cyberjaya.

The mix of highways and by-ways travelled afforded enough variety to form an impression of the Corolla Cross.

The C-segment SUV takes aim at Proton X50, Honda HR-V, Kia Seltos, Hyundai Tucson, Subaru XV and Mazda CX-30.

Like many of the latest Toyota models, the Corolla Cross is built around the Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA), a platform that allows more engineering flexibility and superior benefits.

With TNGA, a lower centre of gravity can be achieved to improve stability while the highly rigid body is said to translate to greater agility and ride comfort.

Compared to the Corolla sedan, the 5-seat Corolla Cross has a marginally shorter body with a length of 4,460mm.

However, it has 45mm more width at 1,825mm, and stands 185mm taller at 1,620mm. Ground clearance is raised to 161mm.

Truth be said, the snub nose looks more memorable than the rear.

The wide trapezoidal grille with its faux honeycomb look holds the front together flanked by slim headlights.

 Excellent visibility even for rear passengers.

Only the 1.8V offers LED headlights; the 1.8G gets you a mix of halogen headlights and LED foglamps, which isn’t the best lighting combo.

The daytime running lights has an intricate “light curtain” graining for a unique appearance, which is seen in the rear lights as well.

Sheet metal indentations front and back at the shoulder line lend a sculptural look to the sides.

The cabin sports a black colour scheme with black leather seats, while satin-finish paint is used to highlight ornamentation parts.

The dashboard is shared with the Corolla sedan except for the meter cluster layout. Hard plastic dominate save for soft leather lining the door armrests. And the parking brake is the foot-operated version instead of the modern electric parking type.

Visibility is great with Toyota stretching as much glass as possible around the greenhouse.

Seats are comfortable especially so for the driver who gets one with 8-way power adjustment.

The rear offers enough legroom and the seatback can recline 6 degrees for a more relaxed riding position.

The SUV also boasts 440 litres of boot space, more than most rivals.

The 9-inch infotainment display on the dashboard supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as well as other connectivity options include USB mirroring, AUX and Bluetooth.

A powered tailgate with kick sensor is standard across variants.

The 1.8-litre 4-cylinder petrol engine, which makes 137hp at 6,400rpm and 172Nm at 4,000rpm, is carried over from the Corolla sedan.

Top speed is 185kph. Power is relayed to the front axle by a seven-speed CVT with Sequential Shiftmatic.

On the move, the Corolla Cross comes across as a competent people mover.

Although 40kg heavier than the sedan, there’s enough power to bring the SUV quickly up to speed though more is always welcome.

You would have to really step on it to eke out higher speeds and that’s when the CVT shows its more drony side. Otherwise, it stays calm and collected at highway speeds.

To be fair, it was fun putting it to work in manual mode on the back roads of Hulu Langat where the virtual gears snap to order as the car weaved in and out at a brisk pace. It just felt more alive.

The front MacPherson strut and rear torsion beam suspension did a commendable job at soaking up vibrations and gave a sense of hugging the road especially on winding stretches in Hulu Langat. Chassis rigidity also helped control lean in tight curves.

Safety-wise, the 1.8G is not as full-featured as the 1.8V. Both get seven airbags, stability and traction control, anti-lock braking, blind spot detection and rear cross traffic alert as well as tyre pressure warning system.

Missing from the 1.8G are pre-collision system, lane-keeping assist, lane departure alert with steering assist, automatic high beam and adaptive cruise control.

Toyota’s latest is sure to draw interest for those looking for a sizeable SUV that offers enough practical space for the small family.

The 1.8G generally gave a good account of itself, paving the way for the 1.8V to be viewed favourably once it arrives.


Volvo Setia Alam 3S centre launched

                SHAH ALAM: Volvo Car Malaysia, the premium car maker, together with its newly appointed dealer, Motion Beyond, launched Volvo Setia Alam, the latest Volvo 3S centre (Sales, Service, and Spare Parts) in the Klang Valley.

The opening affirms Volvo Car Malaysia’s commitment to better service its customers by expanding its dealer network and put in place measures to improve overall customer experience.

“Since we started the transformation plan, we have seen a tremendous upvote from our customers based on the surveys conducted. As a people-centric brand, this is an important indicator that we are heading in the right direction,” said the Managing Director of Volvo Car Malaysia, Lennart Stegland.

 From left, Joshua, Stegland and Edmund at the launch of Volvo Setia Alam.

To date, Volvo Car Malaysia has 11 dealerships across the country with five servicing customers within Greater Kuala Lumpur.

This year, Volvo Car Malaysia intends to secure more locations throughout the country.

Strategically located at the border between Shah Alam and Klang, Volvo Setia Alam will adhere to Volvo’s global showroom and service standards called Volvo Retail Experience (VRE) standard – Volvo’s customer-centric and Scandinavian-inspired approach of selling cars.

“Both Klang and Shah Alam are matured townships with great market potential for luxury car brands. We are happy to be a part of the Volvo Cars and we are confident that Volvo’s new model line-up will appeal to this demographic,” said the managing director of Motion Beyond, Joshua Lee.

Volvo Setia Alam showroom opens from 9am till 7pm from Monday to Saturday and from 10am to 5:30pm on Sundays and public holidays. The service centre opens from Monday to Saturday from 9am to 5pm and closes on Sundays and public holidays.


Lotus teases successors to Elise, Exige and Evora

                LONDON: To acknowledge the forthcoming family of performance cars, Lotus has released an image that hints at the new generation that will replace the Elise, Exige and Evora.

The three models will have their final production run this year.

The new series of sports cars with prototype production of the Lotus Type 131 will start this year from its plant in Hethel, Norfolk.

The new manufacturing investment is part of Lotus’ Vision80 strategy, which will also see the relocation of two Lotus sub-assembly facilities into one efficient central operation in Norwich city to support higher volumes.

Lotus will be recruiting some 250 new employees to accompany the £100-million-plus investment into Hethel’s facilities.

This is in addition to the 670 to have joined Lotus since September 2017, when shareholders Geely and Etika took ownership of the company.

New recruits are required for roles in engineering and manufacturing for both Lotus Cars and the world-renowned engineering consultancy, Lotus Engineering – which opens its Advanced Technology Centre in Warwick later this year.

Lotus Cars CEO Phil Popham said despite the continuing global challenges, Lotus had emerged from 2020 strong and on track in the delivery of the company's Vision80 business plan.

"This year will be hugely significant for Lotus with new facilities coming on stream, a new sports car entering production and new levels of efficiency and quality that only a new car design and factory can deliver."

He said Lotus was all about looking forward, and its future is full of continuous innovation.

"In 2021, however, we will be reflecting on the legacy of our current range, starting with the Elise, a sports car that genuinely revolutionised the automotive industry, not only because it is a legend-in-its-own-lifetime but also for its impact on car design and technology,” he added.

The Elise, Exige and Evora have contributed greatly to the Lotus business over the years, and by the time the last of these models leaves the assembly line, they will have sold a combined circa 55,000 units.


New Mercedes-Benz E-Class starts production

                STUTTGART: Mercedes-Benz has started production of the new E-Class at its Sindelfingen plant near here.

With a total of over 13 million E-Class sedans and wagons sold, the E-Class is the best-selling vehicle in Mercedes-Benz history.

To mark the official start of production, Mercedes-Benz gathered examples of the nine predecessor model series at the finishing line of the business sedan in Sindelfingen.

“The start of series production in our 101st year continues the Sindelfingen success story,” stated Michael Bauer, Site Manager of the Mercedes-Benz Sindelfingen plant.

“The E-Class stands for everything that makes our plant the competence center for upper range and luxury-class vehicles: tradition, innovation and the drive to set standards among the world’s best.”

The new E-Class delivers stylish highlights with its emotive design and exclusive interior. It also marks the world premiere of numerous technical innovations. They enable comfortable, safe driving on a new level plus a new dimension in driver assistance – among other things. The vehicle also comes with infotainment and control systems.

> CarSifu will be going to Europe to test-drive the new E-Class next month. Stay tuned for the report.


Ride the Victory Cross Country Tour

                Touring bikes offer the range and comfort necessary for long distance adventures, so we tried one big Yankee iron horse.

Unique and eye-catching, the Victory Cross Country Tour has a design and styling not found in any present classic-styled cruisers.

The overall design of this bike revolves around angular lines which is reflected by the fairing, tank, saddle bags and the rear light.

In short, the Victory Cross Country Tour design is timeless.

The minute I hopped onto this American saddle, I was stunned by how light the bike felt despite its huge size.

The wide and plush saddle was just perfect.

Meanwhile, the easy to read instrumentation and the integrated audio system with four speakers were definitely a treat when I took it for a spin on an outstation adventure.

Victory’s Cross Country Tour is a large machine, but the 66.8cm seat height allows practically anybody to ride this bike.

The riding position is upright and relaxed.

My long legs were happy with the wide and long floorboards positioned a bit forward, allowing me to stretch them whenever I got tired on my 300km plus ride.

On long rides, these types of floorboards are very welcomed.

Powering the Cross Country Tour is a 1,731cc, 4-stroke 50° V Twin counter-balanced and fuel-injected engine that generates 88bhp and 143.7Nm of torque.

Transmission is a 6-speed type.

At 3,000 rpm, power and torque were more than ample.

The Victory’s power band is very progressive, strong yet manageable.

And for a 384kg tourer, acceleration was a breeze.

I have no complaints on the throttle response.

Regardless of what speed and rpm I was at, I did not feel any twitch in power delivery. Simply awesome!

The first gear came with a loud clunk but after shifting gears, it became smooth and quiet.

I found it very easy and quick to shift the gears and the ratios seems to be very close.

The engineers have definitely done a good job here compared with the Harley-Davidson machines.

On the first gear, Victory is comfortable at 75kph without any strain on the engine.

The second gear gave me the go up to 105kph before clocking the ‘unapproved’ speeds on the rest of the gear upshifts.

Don’t forget, this machine is rigid-mounted so I was expecting some sort of vibrations.

I tried hard feeling for vibrations but I did not sense. Bravo!

Occasionally on the highways and while at the traffic lights, I did feel the engine heat on the legs.

To disperse the heat, the engineers have devised the Victory Comfort Control System that channels the hot air flow from the engine via the adjustable wind control which looks like vents situated on the top and bottom parts of the fairings.

While riding at 100kph in Kuala Klawang, I was forced to hit the brakes abruptly when a huge monitor lizard suddenly dashed across the road.

My heart stopped for a second.

The bike’s stability under heavy braking saved me from crashing and serious injuries.

The front brake was the dual 300mm floating rotors with 4-piston calipers while the rear was the 300mm floating rotor with 2-piston caliper.

During that sudden braking, I realised that the rear brake was very sensitive.

It locked up the rear wheel before the anti-lock braking system kicked in. But nothing to worry about.

On the back roads of Nilai, I had a pleasant ride over the potholes, humps and bumps.

The 43mm inverted fork soaked up all the punishment from the road before it reached the bar.

Meanwhile the rear mono shock kept me firmly planted.

The suspension is close to perfect.

I decided to push the bike hard on a stretch with twisties and corners for a good 45 minutes at Kuala Klawang.

I was simply amazed by how a bike of this size and weight was able to tackle the corners without breaking a sweat.

The stability of the bike was very assuring and every corner was a walk in a park.

On few occasions, the floorboard kissed the tarmac…it is expected when one rides this sort of bike aggressively.

With a comfortable motorcycle like this, you need to enjoy the machine and the journey; and not challenge it like a sports bike.

My experience on the Victory Cross Country Tour was fun.

As far as the irresistible classic styling, performance, comfort, modern technology and touring pleasure go, Victory has gone all out for the Cross Country Tour.

I am so glad Victory is in Malaysia.

I am really looking forward to reviewing the next family member of Victory which is the Victory Vision Tour.


May fuel prices unchanged

                PETALING JAYA: The price of RON97 and RON95 petrol and diesel for the month of May remains unchanged.

The Domestic Trade, Cooperatives and Consumerism Ministry confirmed Thursday that fuel prices will remain at the current rates of RM1.95 per litre for RON95 petrol and diesel, and RM2.25 for RON97 petrol, inclusive of GST. RON95 petrol and diesel are not subject to GST.

Earlier this evening, the Petroleum Dealers Association of Malaysia expressed anxiety as the Government had yet to inform it of any change to pump prices.

Its deputy president, Datuk Zulkifli Mokti,  told The Star Online that as of 8pm today, the association had not been updated on the matter.

“Nothing at all. There are a lot of rumours, unreasonable rumours. The talk about the price going up to 15 sen is unreasonable and it is impossible for it to increase by 15 sen."


Chinese EV maker Xpeng joins Tesla, Seres in price cuts

                SHANGHAI/BEIJING: Chinese automaker Xpeng today announced price cuts for some models in a notice on its official WeChat account, following similar moves by Tesla and Seres and fuelling expectations of a wider price war.

Xpeng lowered the starting prices for its best-selling pure electric P7 sedan to 209,900 yuan (RM135,000), according to the notice, 12.5% lower than its previous level.

The Guangdong-based automaker also slashed prices for all versions of P5 sedan and G3i sports-utility vehicles by between 10% and 13%, according to Reuters calculations based on the prices.

Competition is intensifying in the electric vehicle (EV) sector in China amid forecasts for demand to falter in the first quarter. EV makers, though many of them still loss-making, are therefore under pressure to cut prices to sustain sales volumes.

"We hope to make intelligent vehicles more accessible to more people with more competitive prices," an Xpeng spokesperson told Reuters in a statement after the price cut.

Xpeng said it would offer car owners who purchased automobiles before the price cut extended maintenance services for free as compensation.

Tesla slashed prices of its Model 3 and Model Y cars by 6% to 13.5% in China earlier this month, while Seres also cut prices for its Aito electric cars co-developed with Huawei Technologies Co by 30,000 yuan (RM19,156) last Friday.

Xpeng is also counting on a revamped version of the three-year-old P7 sedan to be launched in the first quarter to boost sales. The EV maker sold 59,066 P7 cars in 2022, 2.5% fewer than a year earlier.


MINI John Cooper Works Clubman UK sales begin

                LONDON: Meet the new MINI John Cooper Works (JCW) Clubman - the most powerful of its kind with a modified 2.0-litre BMW TwinPower turbocharged engine that has an additional radiator, larger intercooler and new sports exhaust system.

The standard Clubman Cooper S with JCW upgrades is priced at £29,345 (RM168,00) and ups the 2.0-litre turbocharged engine's power 231hp (+39hp) from 5,000-6,000rpm and 350Nm (+70Nm) of torque from 1,450 to 4,800rpm.

All that twist gets sent to its ALL4 all-wheel drive system via a short-shifting and rev-matching six-speed manual gearbox or an eight-speed sports Steptronic transmission with paddle-shifters (+RM9,200).

This allows the JCW Clubman with roughly 300kg of additional heft to sprint from 0 to 100kph in 6.3 seconds with launch-control and onwards to a top speed of 238kph.

The JCW Clubman rides on an up-rated suspension setup that's been tailored to the Clubman’s wheelbase and weight distribution, while a Variable Damper Control is available as an added extra.

Bite from the brakes have also been upgraded to brandish the Brembo brand that has an exclusive 18-inch wheels in Black (or optional extra Silver) as its neighbour. Also, a larger 19-inch 'Course’ two-tone design wheel is on the options list.

The exterior gets its aggressive looks from the front and rear bumpers, as well as a rear wing - all of which may help in reducing lift but also for engine/brakes cooling purposes, while sporting JCW badgery, LED front and rear lights and LED daytime running light rings.

Inside, there's sport seats, Alcantara headliner, and a wide array of standard equipment including MINI Navigation, Bluetooth and USB connectivity as well as cruise control with brake function.

A MINI logo projection is also included within the standard package while a special ‘Rebel Green’ colour is exclusive to the high performance hatch.

Inside, there's the John Cooper Works sports seats in Carbon Black upholstery with Dinamica/fabric with integrated headrests. As an option these can be trimmed in Dinamica/Carbon Black leather with red applications.

Additionally, there's also John Cooper Works interior upgrades that include the leather steering wheel with multifunction buttons, door sill cover strips and gear or selector lever.

Those go along with the stainless steel pedals with driver footrest, dark-dialed cockpit displays, anthracite roof liner, interior ‘Grey Chequered’ trim and splashes of red accents.

Other optional extras include a Harman Kardon hi-fi system, panoramic roof, dual-zone automatic air conditioning, driver and front passenger seat heating function, windscreen heating and a MINI Connected in-car infotainment program to name a few.

As for safety, the JCW-ed Clubman gets six airbags, dynamic stability control, dynamic traction control, electronic differential lock control, performance control and collision warning with city braking function.

There's also intelligent emergency call with automatic vehicle location and accident severity detection as well as ISOFIX rear seat anchor points and tyre pressure display function for each individual wheel.


Perodua sales in January 2023 up by 23% year-on-year on production maximisation

SEPANG: Perodua sales for January 2023 jumped 23% to 21,449 units registered compared with 17,444 units in the first month of 2022 as the compact car company continues its focus on maximum production and delivery plan.
In terms of production, Perodua made 24,590 units in January this year, up 40.2% from 17,538 units manufactured in January 2022.

Perodua president and chief executive officer Datuk Seri Zainal Abidin Ahmad said the lower output in January 2022 was also due to a flood, a severe shortage of semiconductor chips supply, manpower issues and other parts shortages – which hindered production and sales.

“That being said, the improvements in volume for both production and sales indicate that the ecosystem is moving as planned,” he said.

Zainal also said Perodua remained committed to its goal of vehicle delivery to Perodua’s customers as quickly as possible without compromising on quality or safety.

 All-new Perodua Axia.

Last week, Zainal told the media that Perodua is targeting to register 314,000 units and produce 330,000 units for the entire of 2023.

“Aside from focusing to deliver our outstanding orders, we will also be launching an all-new Perodua Axia soon to further excite the market. We believe the value proposition will be well accepted by Malaysians,” he said.

Zainal also said the company has converted nearly all of previous bookings of the outgoing Axia model to the new generation vehicle.

“Our sales advisors have contacted our customers on the changes of the all-new Perodua Axia and most of our customers agreed to make the switch,” he said.


MINI’s first electric Convertible arrives as special edition

                LONDON: MINI’s first electric Convertible model has been revealed – though just 999 units are being built for Europe. Priced at £52,500 (RM277,000) in the UK or €60,000 (RM281,000) in the EU, the electric MINI Convertible is part of a "small series" run.

It’ll also be offered in a "fixed specification", with one of just two exterior colours to choose from – Enigmatic Black or White Silver. The door handles and light surrounds will be finished in bronze, while the MINI lettering and model logo will come in black only.

As on the regular hardtop MINI Electric, the ‘E’ logo is located on the front and rear, while the car’s specific number showing its place within the 999-unit run will be applied on the door sill trims.

"Three years ago, we launched the MINI Electric, and today one in five MINI models sold in Europe is an all-electric MINI," Stefanie Wurst, head of the MINI brand, said. "This success has spurred us to implement the small series of the MINI Electric Convertible within only a few months."

The MINI Electric Convertible also features model-specific 17-inch two-tone alloy wheels made from 100% secondary aluMINIum. This material, which is combined with green electricity during construction, significantly reduces CO2 emissions compared with conventionally made wheels, MINI says.

Inside, there’s a leather-clad cabin with a Nappa leather steering wheel. Interior surfaces are finished in Piano Black, contrasted by yellow accents throughout the cabin.

MINI claims a total range of up to 200km for the MINI Electric Convertible – slightly less than the 230km you’d get from the hard top – yet boot space is unaffected and remains 160 litres. - PA Media


EV maker Lucid to raise prices for most models from June

                SAN FRANCISCO: Electric carmaker Lucid Group Inc on Thursday raised prices for most models from June as it deals with rising raw materials costs, but said it would honour current reservations in a move to avoid the blowback a rival faced.

From June 1, new reservations in the United States will be priced at US$154,000 (RM671,000) for Air Grand Touring, US$107,400 (RM468,000) for Air Touring and US$87,400 (RM381,000) for Air Pure models, the company said.

"Similar to many companies in our industry, we continue to face global supply chain and logistics challenges, including Covid-related factory shutdowns in China," Chief Financial Officer Sherry House said.

Despite the challenges, the company reiterated its annual production forecast of 12,000 to 14,000 vehicles.

Amazon-backed Rivian Automotive Inc had to earlier this year roll back price hikes on electric vehicles booked before March 1 after facing backlash from customers following a 20% increase in prices.


Grab introduces new postpaid payment method in Singapore

                PETALING JAYA: Grab has introduced a new payment method where consumers can use the multi-service platform first and pay later.

The postpaid feature dubbed PayLater works for Grab rides, food deliveries and more.

According to the website, users need to activate the feature on the app, after which they would receive a pre-approved monthly PayLater amount. However, it is not specified on the website if it is the user or Grab who sets the amount.

Users can then select the feature as their preferred payment method. No extra charges occur for choosing this method.

At the end of the month, the expenditures will be consolidated into one bill that can be settled using the GrabPay balance.

Users will have seven days to settle their payment, and the website doesn’t state what will happen if users exceed their set amount or if they fail to settle the bill within the said period.

This service is available to users in Singapore, and there is no confirmation yet as to whether it will be extended to Malaysia.


Suzuki Malaysia introduces 150cc class

                KUALA LUMPUR: Finally, Suzuki Malaysia has introduced the smaller category Suzuki bikes which are 147.3cc, single-cylinder DOHC with a liquid-cooled engine.

The bikes are Suzuki GSX-R150, GSX-S150 and Raider R150 Fi.

The GSX-R150 is a sports bike while the GSX-S150 is a naked bike and the Raider R150Fi is an underbone,

 GSX-R150.

The GSX-R150 is priced at RM11,329, the GSX-S150 at RM10,289 and the Raider R150Fi at RM8,173 respectively. All prices are not inclusive of registration, road tax and insurance.

All three models come with telescopic front fork and monoshock suspension in the rear, 17-inch wheels, LED lights, LCD instrument panel, Suzuki East Start System, disc brakes and 6-speed gearbox.

 GSX-S150

The GSX-R150 is the most aggressive small bike in the market today with 11-litre fuel tank.

The engine delivers 19hp at 10,500rpm and torque of 14Nm at 9,000 rpm.

 Raider R150F.

Meanwhile, the GSX-S150 also comes with an 11-litre fuel tank and offers the same engine performance as the GSX-R150.

The Raider R150Fi has an engine with 18.2hp at 10,000rpm and torque of 13.8Nm at 8,500rpm

It has enough of torque at low revs and is suitable for city riding.


New Honda 3S centre opens in Klang

                PETALING JAYA: Honda Malaysia opened its latest Honda 3S Centre - Botanic Auto Mall - located in Bandar Botanic, Klang. The new Honda 3S Centre will provide more convenience to Honda customers in Klang.

Botanic Auto Mall invested approximately RM22 million into the development of the centre to create a Honda 3S Centre that is fully equipped with the latest facilities as well as being conducive and comfortable for customers.

The new Honda 3S Centre sits on a 1.7 acre land with the biggest total build-up area in Central region at almost 72,000 sq ft.

This new site enables a larger capacity in terms of sales and after-sales service in order to serve the growing customer base in the Central region.

Strategically located near amenities such as a post office, clinics, petrol stations, malls and hypermarkets, the new Honda 3S Centre will provide added convenience to customers.

The Botanic Auto Mall Honda 3S Centre will have 24 service bays in total, accommodating up to 120 cars per day. These service bays include five Fast Service, 16 General Repairs, one Tyre Service and two Air-conditioning Service.

The customer area is enhanced with thoughtful facilities and services including three large Executive and Contemporary Customer Lounges, Café Counter with free flow and a variety of hot drinks and snacks, Surau, Shuttle Service for customers and escalator connecting Ground Floor to First Floor, designed based on a “mall” concept for customers’ added convenience and easy accessibility between levels.

Honda Malaysia Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Katsuto Hayashi said, “I believe Botanic Auto Mall Honda 3S Centre is an inspiration to all of us. I am pleased to note that this new Honda 3S Centre has the biggest build-up area in the Central region with the latest facilities. It is designed based on a mall concept which will provide different customer experience and added convenience with easy accessibility between floors.”

The increase of total sales in the Central region has also translated to an escalation in service intake, which grew to more than 369,700 units from January to August 2017 compared to 335,500 units serviced in the same period last year.

This is a 10% growth and it underscores the need for more Honda 3S Centres in the region and also in Malaysia overall.

As such, Honda Malaysia is committed to expand its dealership network and will open more 3S Centres for customers’ convenience and easy accessibility especially in suburban areas.

To make an appointment or to find out more about the services and facilities of this new Honda 3S Centre, customers can contact Botanic Auto Mall at 03-3319 3387 (Sales and Service) or visit them at Lot 143100, Jalan Kasuarina 13/KS 017, Ambang Botanic, 41200, Klang Bandar DiRaja, Selangor or log on to www.honda.com.my for more information.


E-hailing drivers predict fare increase but some economists say it's unlikely

                PETALING JAYA: Higher fares and longer waiting time for e-hailing services are on the cards as the number of drivers dwindle by the July 12 deadline for them to obtain a Public Service Vehicle (PSV) licence.

E-hailing drivers associations foresee an increase in fares, with Malaysian E-hailing Drivers Association (MeHDA) predicting it to be up to 50% – depending on factors such as demand and supply as well as the timing of the rides.

With the number of drivers significantly reduced on the road, MeHDA president Daryl Chong said drivers would have difficulties fulfilling bookings come July 12.

Part-timers exit

“We will see fewer drivers when the deadline comes because many part-timers are opting out; plus many other drivers are still not PSV-ready.

As e-hailing companies use a special algorithm to help them match supply and demand, Chong said they might apply the surcharge mechanism when supply and demand issues occur after July 12.

“The surcharge on fares is already in practice now with a maximum cap of 100% set by APAD (Land Public Transport Agency).

“For example, a RM10 ride can go up to RM20 during peak hours. E-hailing companies give incentives to drivers during peak hours in the morning and evening to encourage them to pick up passengers.

“But higher fares would mean fewer passengers. So they will mostly keep the increase minimal, at perhaps RM15 so that passengers are not badly affected.

“If this mechanism is applied after the deadline, fares will certainly see an increase,” he said.

MeHDA is the largest association representing e-hailing drivers in Malaysia with some 3,500 members nationwide. About 60% of them are full-timers.

According to APAD, there are about 167,000 e-hailing drivers in Malaysia and the Transport Ministry revealed on Tuesday that only 16,338 drivers had signed up for the PSV test.

Out of the figure, 62% (10,151) drivers qualified for the PSV licence ahead of the deadline.

Clearer picture by end of 2019

Noting that the increase in fares as only “a transitional occurrence”, Chong expects the situation to improve by the end of the year, as drivers continue to get their PSV licence even after the deadline.

“The number of drivers will pick up again and the situation will improve. We expect 70% of the total e-hailing drivers to be PSV-ready by the end of the year,” he added.

Chong also did not discount the possibility of e-hailing companies absorbing the price difference and keeping the same fares even when there is a shortage of drivers during non-peak hours.

Grab Drivers Malaysia Association president Arif Asyraf Ali predicted a standstill situation for the e-hailing industry come July 12, calling it the “Carmageddon”.

Echoing Chong on longer waiting time and higher fares, he said the shortage of drivers was attributed to the exodus of part-time drivers and the hassle in getting the PSV licence.

However, he did not want to predict the possible increase in fares, as it is based on “dynamic pricing that is calculated based on supply and demand”.

“It is hard to say for now, as drivers who are interested to continue driving are still in the process of getting their PSV licence. We can only see where it is heading after the deadline.”

MyCar founder Mohd Noah Maideen said it was working very hard to get taxis into their platform in anticipation of interruptions to their services.

“This is our focus now as we believe most are full time and they may support our service,” he said, adding that they had 3,000 taxis on board.

MyCar is the second biggest ride-hailing application behind Grab.

It has 70,000 drivers registered with it, and Noah believes that at the most they can only retain 50% of them in the long term.

He said what was more important was the availability of the drivers.

He said that most of the time they had 5,000 drivers available and if they could get at least 3,000 of them, this would be good enough for the beginning.

“The most I think we can get is about 2,000,” he said.

Similarly, Mula Kuala Lumpur branch manager Kumeran Sagathevan said the impact of the new regulations would be across the board for all e-hailing operators as the number of drivers who have managed to get their PSV is still low.

“Disruption would definitely be unavoidable as the supply cannot keep up with the demand to start off with. We have to move forward and find ways to improve on this in accordance with the government regulations,” he said.

Noah said there was a possibility that fares would increase by 30% once the regulations kicked in, and admitted that this could affect their business although this could be reversed in the long term.

Economists voice out

Some Fares for e-hailing rides should not increase, as affordability is among the reasons passengers turn to them, say

“If they hike up their prices, they will lose their market share. It would not be in their interest to do so.

“They will be under scrutiny when the regulations kick in,” said Sunway University economics professor Dr Yeah Kim Leng.

He believed that the quality of service would deteriorate as certain areas would have fewer drivers, resulting in passengers having to endure longer waiting time.

At the same time, he said the remaining drivers would have a more stable income due to less competition.

He also believed that taxi drivers would welcome the move for a level playing field.

Another economist, who did not want to be named, doubted that fares would go up.

“They may not increase the fares. It is more of a competitive market situation. Even taxi drivers can become Grab drivers, so they have options,” he said.

He said such regulations, if looked at from a logical standpoint, were necessary as they would create a level playing field for taxi operators.

“You have to be fair to taxi drivers. They need a few rides before they can start to make money. They have to pay for the rental of their cars on top of being subjected to regulations,” he said.

He said there was likely to be a significant dropout involving part-timers, who would experience a loss of supplementary income.

However, Alliance Bank Malaysia Bhd chief economist Manokaran Mottain believed that the moment regulations kick in for e-hailing drivers, fares were bound to go up.

“Sometimes when you have the peak-hour charges the prices are really expensive.

“Eventually, I think they can’t sustain this kind of business. Customers will always choose what is cheap,” he said.

He said it was a good opportunity for taxi drivers to think about how they could improvise their services and to look at the cost structure.


Get Extra rewards at Shell with BonusLink

                KUALA LUMPUR: Shell Malaysia and BonusLink have unveiled enhancements to their Extra rewards and loyalty programme, beginning July 1.

Malaysia's first consumer reward programme with more than 14.9 million members nationwide will now feature a four-level structure – Member, Silver, Gold and Platinum – which increases the level of rewards as members collect more BonusLink points at Shell.

Customers can hasten their BonusLink point collection at Shell by using their BonusLink card or the BLINK App whether they are fueling up, buying snacks or lubricants.

Depending on the tier status, members are entitled to get exclusive rewards and various perks of up to 3X BonusLink Points multiplier, Deli2Go and Upsize Coffee promo, discounts on Shell products, birthday treats and more.

Shell Malaysia and Singapore mobility general manager Seow Lee Ming said the company is constantly evolving with customers and striving to provide quality at every touchpoint.

"Our partnership with BonusLink allows us to give our customers an extra rewarding experience every time they fuel and shop at our stations," she said.

BonusLink chief executive officer Melvin Ooi said the company is taking the loyalty services one step further to reward its loyalty members from this month.

“This is an exciting time for us as we begin to transform our service offerings to add value and to offer more rewards to our members based on their level.

"With this, members can enjoy an array of goodies and Extra Points simply by continuing to swipe their BonusLink Card or their Virtual Card via BLINK App at Shell,” he said.

Customers can power up Extra rewards and perks at your nearest Shell station to begin accelerating BonusLink points today.

New users can sign up for BonusLink now at any Shell station nationwide or download the BLINK App to register.


Sime Darby Motors to continue leading local EV infrastucture rollout

                PETALING JAYA: Sime Darby Motors Malaysia is on track with its plans to create a seamless experience for electric vehicle (EV) owners and to support the development of a highly efficient EV charging network for its range of brands.

In playing its part to accelerate the adoption of EVs, Sime Darby Motors has identified locations for EV
charging stations at every 200 to 300km along highways across Peninsular Malaysia to ensure all high-density areas are in range of charging stations.

Part of these efforts include ensuring the availability of innovative and convenient support services for all existing and new customers who have purchased an EV from Sime Darby Motors.

Taking the lead in the journey is Auto Bavaria, the longest-serving and largest BMW authorised dealership group in Malaysia.

Leveraging on its extensive network of direct current (DC) and alternating current (AC) fast chargers, a total of 33 charging facilities are currently operational across Klang Valley, Penang, and Johor.

The network of chargers is available for booking via the GO TO-U digital experience platform for e-mobility application powered by a wholly-owned subsidiary of Tenaga Nasional Bhd, TNBX Sdn Bhd.

The GO TO-U application allows Sime Darby Motors EV owners the convenience of pre-booking EV charging stations, connecting with local businesses within walking distance, and enjoying added services such as battery health checks, scheduled maintenance and customer support.

Members of the public or non-Sime Darby Motors EV owners are also able to use the GO TO-U application to book EV charging stations across Sime Darby Motors’ network.

Sime Darby Motors EV owners are eligible to receive a 10-year waiver on membership fees via the GO TO-U app worth RM2,400, in addition to special DC charging rates and free charging at AC chargers available until Dec 31.

Meanwhile, non-Sime Darby Motors EV owners will receive a membership fee waiver, special DC charging rates and free charging at AC charging points, all currently available until Dec 31.

Sime Darby Motors Malaysia Retail and Distribution managing director Jeffrey Gan said the group remained focused on its energy-efficient drive as a leading automotive player in Malaysia.

“We are on track with our plans to populate our roads and highways with EV charging stations to help accelerate the adoption of EVs.

“We are also pleased to offer a uniquely Sime Darby Motors’ customer experience for Sime Darby Motors EV owners, which promises an enriching EV experience across all Sime Darby Motors brands.

“This will be a game changer for our EV customers and for us as well, with data analytics that will be made available.

“We are excited to bring innovative automotive experiences to our customers as we play our part in furthering the country’s aspirations for a low carbon mobility future,” he said.

Auto Bavaria managing director Vi Thim Juan said the new range of mobility services would enhance the experience of BMW EV owners.

“Our extensive network coupled with our new offerings will elevate and more importantly ensure a convenient journey, backed by unmatched service support.

“We are proud to be able to contribute to the thriving electromobility ecosystem and towards a greener Malaysia,” he said.

Klang Valley
1. Auto Bavaria Ara Damansara AC/DC
2. Auto Bavaria Kuala Lumpur AC/DC
3. Auto Bavaria Sungai Besi AC/DC
4. Auto Bavaria Chan Sow Lin AC
5. Auto Bavaria Balakong AC
6. KLGCC AC

Penang
7. Auto Bavaria Penang AC/DC
8. G Hotel Kelawai Penang AC
9. Queensbay Mall Penang AC
10. St. Giles Wembley Hotel Penang AC

Johor
11. Auto Bavaria Tebrau AC/DC
12. Auto Bavaria Johor Bahru AC/DC
13. DoubleTree Hotel Johor Bahru AC

Special DC charging rates per minute (Until Dec 31)
Sime Darby Motors EV Owners
24KW 20 sen per minute
60KW 80 sen per minute
90KW RM1.20 per minute

Non-Sime Darby Motors EV Owners/Public Rates
24KW 40 sen per minute
60KW RM1.20 per minute
90KW RM1.60 per minute

Interested customers may download the TNBX’s GO TO-U app with the following links or QR codes
according to their mobile platform: https://bit.ly/GoToU-Android on the Google Play Store or
https://apple.co/3aAhdOO on the Apple App store.


2017 New York Auto Show: Toyota concept targets casual off-roaders

NEW YORK: Toyota's New York Auto Show car is a crossover for those who prefer to scroll rather than stroll in the great outdoors. The FT-4X Concept is designed to meet the imagined needs of city-bound millennials with a sense of spontaneous weekend adventure.

Toyota says that the bright orange and white SUV 'lite' is the first vehicle to capitalize on what it calls the 'Casualcore' lifestyle it imagines most successful American Generation Yers live.

"We focused on how a crossover vehicle can add fun and value to casual adventures both in and out of the city, thinking about how someone would use it, and what they would love to do with it," said Kevin Hunter, President of Toyota's Calty Design Research Inc. in Newport Beach, California, which undertook the project.

Toyota reasoned that while generations past would have jumped into a Jeep or Ford Bronco, packed it with equipment and headed out on extreme all-terrain adventures, today, thanks to the ubiquity of social media and digital technology, people want to grab casual, spur-of-the-moment adventure wherever they can.

Just getting to the mountain and having fun at its base is enough — without having to think about things like packing a change of clothes or water, or worrying if the car can actually drive up the side of a mountain.

This is why the FT-4X Concept's interior door handles double as water bottles, and why the center console armrest for the driver is actually a smartly-folded North Face sleeping bag. There are open and closed storage spaces throughout the cabin, some of which are waterproof, some chilled, and some heated. The matting and coverings around the rear passenger seats are mud-proof and waterproof, giving adventurers somewhere warm to dry off, and the tailgate space is completely flat for easier loading and to double as seating when parked. Even the interior lights can be removed to use as flashlights.

Toyota conceived the cabin as the vehicular equivalent of a Swiss Army Knife. "You can really tell that we had a blast designing the FT-4X because it looks fun to use and fun to drive," said Calty Studio Chief Designer Ian Cartabiano. "We want everyone to interact with this car and feel a sense of delight and excitement."

And while some elements of the car's design might be seen as gimmicks, what is refreshing and genuinely clever about the FT-4X is that it is unapologetically analog — full of proper switches and buttons. The four-wheel drive system is mechanical, there is no infotainment or touch screen system, just a cradle for drivers to mount their smartphone and use apps.

"I love this idea of mechanical satisfaction because while we're living in today's digital world, we took something that's based on physical movements and made that a large part of what this vehicle is," Cartabiano explained.


Electric car maker Fisker eyes deal to go public

                LOS ANGELES: Electric vehicle maker Fisker Inc is in talks to go public through a sale to a so-called blank-check acquisition company, modeled after a successful deal earlier this year by peer Nikola Corp, people familiar with the matter said on Thursday.

Nikola shares are up more than 60% since it went public last month through such a deal, as investors place bets on which startup will be the next Tesla Inc.

Earlier this month, autonomous vehicle technology company Velodyne Lidar agreed to be bought by blank-check company Graf Industrial Corp for US$1.6 billion, fuelling a rally in the latter’s shares.

Spartan Energy Acquisition Corp which is backed by private equity firm Apollo Global Management Inc, is leading a bidding war among blank-check companies for Fisker, and could clinch a deal for close to US$2 billion as early as next week, the sources said.

The sources requested anonymity as the deal talks are confidential. Fisker and Spartan declined to comment.

Spartan’s shares rallied on the news and were up 35% at US$15.25 in early afternoon trading in New York on Thursday.

Henrik Fisker, a one-time Aston-Martin designer, launched the eponymous Los Angeles-based company in 2016, and plans to begin selling the Fisker Ocean luxury electric SUV in 2022 at a starting price of US$37,500.

His previous automotive venture, Fisker Automotive, filed for bankruptcy in 2013 after burning through US$1.4 billion in private investments and taxpayer-funded loans. Once billed as a rival to Tesla, it ended up making fewer than 2,000 cars.

Fisker Automotive was bought out of bankruptcy in 2014 by a Chinese auto parts maker and renamed Karma Automotive.

Spartan raised US$552 million in a initial public offering in 2018, saying it would focus on an acquisition in the North American energy industry. It would use these funds and borrowed money to fund the deal with Fisker.

Tesla’s shares have risen 500% over the past year, as the company increased sales of its Model 3 sedan and Model Y SUV, pushing the company’s market capitalization past Toyota Motors Corp as the world’s most valuable automaker.


Electric cars catch fire less often than fossil-fuelled ones, study shows

                STOCKHOLM: Dramatic news and media reports on electric car fires may suggest they occur more often than is really the case, according to a new study in Sweden.

The research by the Swedish Civil Contingencies Agency (MSB) concluded that electric cars catch fire less often than those running on fossil fuels.

"What we take from the survey is that electric cars burn less often than fossil-fuelled cars," Ulf Bergholm, who is behind the research, was quoted as saying by Swedish newspaper Dagens Nyheter.

Last year, around 3,400 passenger cars caught fire in Sweden, including those set alight deliberately. Of that number 23 were electric cars or plug-in hybrids.

This equates to about 0.004% of all electric cars and plug-in hybrids on Swedish roads. The level for fires in fossil-fuelled cars was nearly 20 times that figure at some 0.08%, including arson cases.

The number of electric car fires did however increase in 2022 from just eight in 2018, the first year the survey was carried out. The number of electric cars (including electric/plug-in hybrids) on Swedish roads increased fourfold over the same period.

In the last three years, the number of fires in electric cars has levelled off, which Ulf Bergholm sees as positive. However, he does not dare to draw any conclusions about the reason.

"MSB has noticed that many people think that a blazing electric car is more dangerous than one that runs on fossil fuels, but MSB has not seen any evidence of this."

According to Bergholm, it is above all the smoke from burning vehicles that makes a car fire dangerous to humans, regardless of fuel. "Our message is not to inhale any smoke from burning cars," he said.

Experts said it was worth noting that electric cars are still relatively young. Vehicles with combustion engines, have often been in use for much longer.

Electric cars are also harder to extinguish since the intense heat generated the batteries hampers the work of fire-fighters.

MSB said the varied fire frequency might be related to the age of the vehicles. For a more meaningful comparison, the different drive systems of cars made in similar years would have to be compared with each other.

Nevertheless, other studies from Germany have also shown that electric cars at least do not burn down more often than combustion-engined equivalents.


Honda HR-V RS previewed

                PETALING JAYA: The HR-V is over three years old and to boost buying momentum in an old model, Honda Malaysia today previewed a sportier variant - the HR-V RS.

The price would be announced at its official launch in the third quarter. Honda Malaysia is now accepting bookings of the new variant and each booking and registration by Oct 31 will be rewarded with a Petronas Gift Card preloaded with RM1,000.

The new variant was revealed to members of the local media in conjunction with Honda Malaysia's Hari Raya open house gathering in Kuala Lumpur earlier today. The interior of the car was, however, blacked out until its official launch.

 Buy the RS variant of the HR-V and you get Honda LaneWatch. The is the first time the safety feature is found in the HR-V.

There are cosmetic changes as well as equipment upgrades. The highlight is the addition of the Honda LaneWatch camera system mounted on the passenger side mirror, first seen in the flagship Accord. The passenger side view of the adjacent lanes next to the vehicle including blind spots will be displayed on a display system in the car. This allows a better viewpoint and provides safer driving condition for the driver.

Standard safety features are six airbags, Emergency Stop Signal (ESS),Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) Hill Start Assist (HSA) and Multi-Angle Rear-View Camera.

Engine is the same as before. The HR-V is powered by a 1.8L SOHCi-VTEC engine combined with Honda's Earth Dreams Technology Continuous Variable Transmission (CVT). The setup produces 142 at 6,500rpm and 172Nm at 4,300rpm. At present, the HR-V is available in the S, E and V trims. In February, an HR-V Mugen limited edition based on the V-trim was introduced but it was limited to 1,020 units.

The RS variant has a new exterior featuring Honda’s Signature design, the "Solid Wing Face" concept. It sports a new set of headlights including the newly designed LED headlights with LED Daytime Running Lights, LED fog lights and rear combi LED guide lights.

Enhancing its sportiness, the RS variant comes with a new 18-inch dual-tone alloy wheels, sporty front grille, new front and rear bumpers. New detailing such as a dark chrome outer handle, black chrome licence garnish, black side sill and even mesh fog garnish provides a fresh and vibrant feel to the RS variant. Honda Malaysia has also introduced a new colour for the HR-V, the Passion Red Pearl.

"We have received overwhelming bookings during the zero-rated GST period of June 2018," said Honda Malaysia managing director and CEO Toichi Ishiyama.

"Due to the surge in bookings, waiting period for certain Honda models is between 3 to 4 months. Honda Malaysia is working hard to deliver the new vehicle to all the owners.”

The compact SUV, HR-V was first introduced in 2015 This Honda model retains its No. 1 position for three consecutive years in the compact SUV segment and has sold more than 72,000 units as at June. The HR-V is also Honda’s current second best-selling model, contributing 16% of overall sales as at June.


Facelifted Mercedes-Benz A-Class launched

                KUALA LUMPUR: Mercedes-Benz Malaysia has launched its facelifted A-Class model range that still retains its internal W176 code as well as its good looks, while welcoming the addition of a new entry-level variant – the A 180 Urban Line.

Four variants are being offered with pricing on-the-road with GST without insurance starting with the A 180 at RM195,888 (RM196,888 with 18-inch AMG wheels), followed by the A 200 AMG Line at RM205,888, the A 250 Sport at RM238,888 and finally the range-topping Mercedes-AMG A 45 4MATIC at RM348,888.

Still maintaining a wheelbase of 2,699mm, also hasn’t changed dimensionally at 4,299mm-long, 1,780mm-wide and 1433mm-tall (1434mm - A 200 AMG Line, 1,438mm – A 250 Sport) – only the beefed-up A 45 is longer at 4,367mm and sits lower at 1,417mm.

The newly added A 180 sees it using a new 1.6-litre (1,595cc) engine producing 122hp at 5,000rpm and 200Nm of torque from 1,250 to 4,000rpm, while mated to a seven-speed dual clutch transmission (7G-DCT) for a 0-100kph time of 8.6 seconds and top speed of 202kph.

In terms of external features, the A 180 receives LED headlamps with adaptive highbeam assist, adaptive LED tail lights as well as Night, Urban and Mirror packages.

Furthermore, it rolls on a set of five-spoke lightweight 18-inch wheels fitted with 225/40 series run-flat tyres (the 14-spoke 18-inch AMG wheels can be had for an additional RM1,000), that obscure the solid disc brakes and the Comfort suspension.

Inside, the A 180 gets, Artico / Fabric upholstery, black roof liner, leather-wrapped three-spoke 12-button multifunction steering wheel with paddle shifters for the electromechanical power steering system, illuminated door sills and a luggage net for the boot.

Also included are electrically adjustable (new seat cushion adjustable depth of up to 60mm) driver and passenger seats with heating, memory and under-seat storage compartments, light and sight package, larger eight-inch media display, Audio 20 with CD player and a media interface.

Convenience comes in the form of Dynamic Select (Comfort, Sport, Eco and Individual driving modes), ECO Start/Stop functionality, cruise control with Speedtronic speed limiter, reverse camera, electric parking brake, active parking assist, tyre-pressure monitoring system and automatic wipers.

As for safety, there’s five airbags, anti-lock braking system, brake assist, electronic stability programme (ESP), attention assist, collision prevention assist plus and pre-safe.

The A 200 AMG Line uses the same 1.6-litre engine, but gets tuned-up to produce 156hp at 5,300rpm and 250Nm of torque from 1,250 to 4,000rpm instead, while mated to the same 7G-DCT – bringing its 0-100kph time down to 7.8 seconds and its top speed up to 224kph.

It also gets stiffer sports suspension, cross-drilled disc brakes, direct steering, Tirefit, AMG bodykit, Dinamica / Artico Black upholstery and AMG floor mats.

With the A 250 Sport, the engine gets sized-up to 2.0 litres (1,991cc) and now pushes out 211hp at 5,500rpm and 350Nm of torque from 1,200 to 4,000rpm.

And to help it go from 0-100kph in 6.4 seconds and onwards to a top speed of 240kph are the wider 235/40 series tyres fitted onto the standard five-spoke 18-inch AMG wheels.

Utilising the same engine, the AMG A 45 4MATIC gets tuned to 381hp at 6,000rpm and 475Nm of torque from 2,250 to 5,000rpm (21hp and 25Nm more than its predecessor) for the AMG Speedshift DCT seven-speed sports transmission to manage before sending it to all four 19-inch wheels with 235/40 series tyres.

With the help of the AMG Performance exhaust system, it reaches 100kph from standstill in 4.2 seconds before getting electronically limited to a top speed 250kph so that the red-painted performance callipers can still effectively bite down on the cross-drilled disc brakes.

    Externally, it gets slapped with the AMG Aerodynamics package and an AMG Night package, before adding on red seat belts and leather-upholstered AMG Sport-badged performance seats on the inside.

And after adding the AMG badge to the steering wheel, E-Select shifter and key, the list of upgrades comes to a close with a three-stage ESP, AMG ride control sports suspension and adding Race to its Dynamic Select list of modes.

Mercedes AMG A 45 4MATICMercedes-Benz A 250 Sport
 Mercedes-Benz A 200 AMG Line
Mercedes-Benz A 180 Urban Line


Stop or face action, Govt warns Dego Ride

                KUALA LUMPUR: Legal action can be taken against unlicensed motorcycle taxi service provider Dego Ride if it does not cease operation, said Transport Minister Datuk Seri Liow Tiong Lai.

“You need a licence if it involves public safety. When you start charging fees, it’s a public taxi, and we can regulate public taxis,” he told reporters after attending a Chinese New Year open house at SMJK Chong Hwa.

He was responding to Dego Ride founder and chief executive officer Nabil Feisal Bamadhaj’s recent claim that the company does not need a licence from the Transport Ministry to operate.

Nabil had said that his company would continue to operate as there are no laws preventing it from doing so.

Dego Ride was declared illegal by Deputy Transport Minister Datuk Abdul Aziz Kaprawi on Jan 24.

On Saturday, Road Transport Department director-general Datuk Nadzri Siron advised the public against using the service until it secures a permit from the Land Public Transport Commission.

Liow said he has received many calls from non-governmental organisations concerned with the safety of Dego Ride’s service.

“We’re worried it can lead to more accidents in the country.

“The higher the number of vehicles we have on the road, the higher the probability of road accidents,” he said.

The Government has been taking steps to improve public transportation service to resolve traffic jams, he said.

If Dego Ride presented a proposal to the Transport Ministry to legalise its operation, the ministry would look into it, but as of now, it is an illegal service, said Liow.


Proton X50 1.5 TGDi Flagship: Feature-packed and value for money

                The Proton X50 sports utility vehicle (SUV) will have budding owners wide-eyed with its practicality, power and the right amount of style that’ll appeal to both sexes.

Our review unit is the top variant 1.5 TGDI Flagship coated in Jet Grey and gets its upholstery wrapped in Black and Red Leatherette.

With the X50 Flagship being priced at RM103,300 (OTR without insurance with sales tax exemption) it’s practically an advantage across the board against its competitors.

This includes the Honda HR-V, Toyota C-HR and all-wheel-driven Subaru XV in terms of value with its extensive inclusions of accoutrements, advanced safety equipment and handling prowess.

In the looks department, the X50 will not seem as “vanilla” as one might think.

Instead, it comes nicely equipped with a rear roof spoiler and quad exhaust pipes that flank the rear diffuser.

Also, it comes with stylish 18-inch alloys with 215/55 series tyres as well as sharp and chiselled design cues at the front and along its side profile.

With all that coming together, the X50 ultimately shouts “sporty” with nothing seemingly out of place and consistent gaps maintained between body panels.

Under the hood, the little 1.5-litre direct-injected three-cylinder engine allows the X50 to outright shine and does well to stand out against the competition.

The Flagship variant’s engine is more powerful at 177PS at 5,500rpm and 255Nm of torque from 1,500 to 4,000rpm compared to 150PS and 226Nm for the Standard, Executive and Premium variants.

There’s significantly more pep in terms of responsiveness and surges in power for the front wheels via the smooth yet quick-shifting seven-speed dual-clutch transmission.

Owners will notice how the power surges into effect with some obvious induction noise during low revs when under load.

At full throttle, the X50 Flagship doesn’t disappoint with power readily accessible around the engine’s 3,000rpm mid-range mark which makes it very much useable when out and about.

As the engine heads towards its 6,000rpm red-line, power does taper off gradually and only happens towards the last 1,000rpm before reaching its redline.

Regardless of the Flagship being in Eco, Normal or Sport mode, it’s always a smooth operator with very little abruptness coming through.

The suspension proved to offer a supple behaviour over uneven roads yet provide a good amount of stability for highspeed runs and corner-carving duties.

Driving confidence is further bolstered by the braking system which provides a significant amount of bite to slow things down when needed and is rather similar to more European makes.

Inside, the cabin seems well-insulated for a premium experience that adds sophistication via brushed aluminium accents, soft-touch rubberised materials in the high visibility areas and well laid out controls.

The buttons were found to be properly tactile, large and easily in reach while the 10.25-inch touchscreen adds to the feeling of being technologically advanced as does the keyless entry with push-start button system and remote start functionality.

The best part is, owners are able to experience a full-colour LCD digital instrument cluster and a more accessible 330-litre boot (unlike the Proton X70’s high boot floor).

Passengers get treated to a relatively comfortable and spacious interior that’s amplified by the panoramic retractable sunroof as well as access to three USB ports (one under the “floating” floor console and two behind the centre armrest.

There’s really very little to fault the X50 here, save for a few.

While the fit and finish of the cabin are absolutely well put together for all, its the ergonomics that don’t seem to fit at times.

For instance, the headrests of the front seats have been peculiarly angled too far forward and aren’t for those who prefer being seated in a more upright position.

This forces those at the front to uncomfortably bow their heads when puttering/cruising about.

Driving in a more reclined position solves this but forces the arms to be in a more outreached position to the steering wheel than necessary.

In the overall sense, budget SUV buyers should ultimately aim for the Flagship variant and add on the optional powered tailgate.

Aside from the Flagship’s price point, it also provides more than what the competition offers including advanced driver assist systems that would usually bump up the overall price.

The value proposition of the Flagship variant should be the main reward even if buyers have to wait a bit longer due to a long order list.

SPECIFICATIONSProton X50 1.5 TGDi FlagshipEngine: 1,477cc, 3-cylinder, turbocharged, direct injection
Maximum power: 177PS at 5,500rpm
Maximum torque: 255Nm from 1,500 to 4,000rpm
Transmission: Seven-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT)
Acceleration (0-100kph): 7.9 seconds
Top speed: 195kph
Features: Six airbags, anti-lock braking system, electronic brakeforce distribution, brake assist, auto brake hold, electronic stability control, traction control, hill-hold assist, hill descent control, autonomous emergency braking, forward collision warning, adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go function, intelligent cruise control, lane-keep assist, lane departure warning, blind spot information system, adaptive high-beam assist, tyre-pressure monitoring system, auto park assist, front and rear parking sensors, reverse camera, 360-degree camera system, automatic climate control with rear air vents, auto-dimming (electro-chromatic) rearview mirror, keyless entry with push-start button, remote engine start, front welcome lights, panoramic retractable sunroof, leatherette seats, six-way powered driver seat, N95 cabin filter, automatic LED projector headlights with daytime running lights, automatic wipers, roof rails, automatic on front fog lights when turning, electric parking brake, six-speaker touchscreen infotainment system with “Hi Proton” voice command, navigation, music streaming services, water forecast and smartphone connectivity, Bluetooth connectivity, three USB ports, 4G and Wifi connectivity, Proton Link App (vehicle status and remote access) and 18-inch alloy with 215/55 series tyres

Price: RM103,300 (on-the-road without insurance including sales tax exemption)


New Porsche Macan orders start, from RM455K, available from June 21

                KUALA LUMPUR: The order books for Porsche's new Macan has opened and is due to hit Malaysian showrooms by June 21 while boasting of a more efficient 2.0-litre turbocharged engine with an improved combustion chamber geometry.

Priced with all applicable duties (except registration fee, road tax and insurance) from RM455,000, the new Macan will have 252hp and 370Nm on tap as well as the addition of four new exterior colours – Mamba Green Metallic, Dolomite Silver Metallic, Miami Blue and Crayon.

The compact sport utility vehicle uses a seven-speed Porsche Doppel Kupplungs getriebe (Porsche dual-clutch gearbox) to manage power delivery to the staggered and standard 18-inch wheels (up sizable up to 21-inches as an optional extra) via the all-wheel-drive system.

While boasting of heightened levels of ride comfort, it is capable of sprinting from 0 to 100kph in 6.7 seconds before reaching a top speed of 225kph while fuel consumption has been rated at a respectable 8.1 litres per 100km on the combined cycle.

Externally, the Macan now sports a redesigned front end that makes it appear wider and flanked by the standard LED headlights with the Porsche Dynamic Light System Plus (PDLS Plus) available as an option.

The rear now sports a new three-dimensional LED light panel while the brake lights take on a four-point design.

Inside, the cabin features a fully interconnected Porsche communication management system with a 10.9-inch (+3.7-inch) full-HD touchscreen that provides mobile phone preparation, two audio interfaces and intelligent voice control as standard.

As in the Panamera and Cayenne, the user interface can be adapted to suit personal requirements via predefined tiles while the existence of Porsche Traction Management (PTM) system helps to keep situations 'well planted'.

New owners of the Macan are able to opt for the GT sports steering wheel that follows the styling of the Porsche 911.

A mode switch integrated into the steering wheel – including sport response button – is part of the optional Sport Chrono package that can be fitted in the Macan.

Other worthy mentions include a heated windshield and an air ioniser that – together with the fine particulate air filter (fitted as standard) – improves the cabin's air quality.

The new Macan is still in its first generation, having debuted in 2014. It will continue as a petrol-driven car in the current generation for years to come and will be built in Leipzig alongside the second-generation Macan, which will be exclusively an all-electric car. The electric version is due in 2021.

The reason why Porsche is extending the life of the existing Macan is because some markets are not ready for a switch to all-electric drivetrains.


End of the road for hypercars as electric motors offer more power?

                MARANELLO/STUTTGART: One of the first genuine supercars appeared as far back as 1987, spawning a slew of exotic metal that continues to this day.

The definition of what makes a supercar has changed since the Ferrari F40 entered the fray that year. Back then it was a car with 477hp and a price tag of 440,000 German marks. Top speed was 321kph.

The Porsche 959 debuted around the same time as the Ferrari and hot on their heels came the McLaren F1, in 1993. Both of them pushed the envelope further with more speed under the bonnet.

The McLaren blew everyone into the weeds with its Formula One-style central driving seat, huge power reserve of 627 horses and a top speed of 370kph. The price was astronomical too. A buyer needed 1.5 million German marks (around 766,000 euros) to buy one.

From now on cars like these were known as hypercars and today's models in this exclusive segment all boast superlative performance.

They can trace their heritage back to the Lamborghinis, Maseratis and Aston Martins of yore but unlike these the supercars of tomorrow are either hybrids or pure electrics.

Inspiration comes from electrified grand prix racing where petrol engines have long been ousted. Hybrid models like the LaFerrari, the McLaren P1 und Porsche 918 Spyder can glide through city streets on epower without attracting undue attention yet when unleashed they offer faster acceleration and better straight-line performance than anything that went before.

One current Italian sportscar can manage the benchmark dash from zero to 100kph in under three seconds, a British offering in 2.8 seconds and a German Porsche surges ahead with a heart-stopping 2.6 seconds.

Figures like these put old-school hypercars in the shade.

The Bugatti Veyron (built from 2005 to 2015) was no slouch but this car's heyday has long past. The 16-cylinder motor remains an engineering masterpiece but the Veyron and its successor, the Chiron will soon be exhibits in car museums or else cherished classics.

The latest breed of hypercar is hotting up fast and poised to offer fantastic performance.

One of the fastest models boasts 2,000 horses, with sub-two-second acceleration and top speed of 400kph. Even Formula One pilot Lewis Hamilton and newly-crowned champion Jos Verstappen will have trouble keeping up with one of these.

There's competition too for established makers since until now roost-rulers Ferrari, Porsche and McLaren have relied largely on petrol engines for power. Newcomers and outsiders like Rimac, Pininfarina and Lotus are giving them a good run for their money with exceptional models like the Nevera, Battista and Evija.

It seems the sky is the limit, with hypercars getting faster every year yet experts like Jan Burgard from management consultancy Berylls wonder if the days of the hypercar may soon be numbered.

"In the world of electrification, power has become so cheap to achieve that it no longer serves as the sole definition for a car model," said Burgard.

Limousines like the Mercedes-Benz EQS have up to 761hp which puts it in the hypercar league. In the same mould are the Tesla Model S with up to 1,020hp on tap and the state-of-the-art Lucid Air (1,111 hp). Lucid's testing indicates a 0-100kph time of just 2.42 seconds

"Even if someone doubles or trebles that power output we are entering into an area where the differences are purely academic since no one can use that kind of performance on a public road," said the expert.

"Unless the brands come up with something fundamentally new, competition will focus on faster charging and automotive experiences beyond driving itself. This could mean that today's hypercars are the last," said Burgard.


Google clocks up its millionth autonomous driving mile

                SAN FRANCISCO: Google has hit a significant milestone. Its self-driving cars have now covered over 1 million fully autonomous miles.

"Along the way, we've navigated more than 200,000 stop signs, 600,000 traffic lights, and seen 180 million vehicles-with several thousand traffic cones, some fluttering plastic shopping bags, and a rogue duck thrown in for good measure," said Google's co-founder Sergey Brin of the achievement.

Google only started grappling with the problems involved with self-driving vehicles in 2009, but has already officially covered more autonomous test miles than any single car manufacturer. All of which is making the company very positive and confident in its belief that the self-driving car is going to become a reality on real-world roads very shortly.

"We're taking this million mile milestone as further proof that fully self-driving vehicles will become a reality, and we're looking forward to finding out where the next million miles will take us," said Brin.

Last month Google announced it had covered over 1.7 million miles in total driving with its specially adapted fleet of Toyotas and Lexus cars - which start out life as regular cars before being retrofitted with sensors and cameras - not by the battery powered pod prototypes that it hopes to one day put into production. What's more, the overwhelming majority of the testing has taken place on freeways, rather than inner-city roads where driving conditions are much more unpredictable and the risks of an accident greater.

During its shareholder meeting on Wednesday, Google admitted that its cars had been involved in 12 accidents to date, the most recent occurring at the end of May. However, according to Brin, the Google car has never been at fault and the company's aim wasn't perfection but a car that was better than driving than a human.

Autonomous driving experts note that despite Google's achievements thus far, there are still significant challenges to overcome, such as travelling on routes which have not been mapped or taking different types of action when faced with different types of obstacle.

During a TED talk in March, Chris Urmson, Google's project's leader, revealed that the cars have encountered a child in the road driving a toy car and a woman in an electric wheelchair chasing a duck, but that in both situations the car slowed down to avoid an accident.

The auto industry has been developing autonomous driving technology for a number of years and has elected to add features to production cars over time so that they become increasingly autonomous. The next layers will include remote controlled parking and gear changes preselected by GPS based on the road conditions ahead.

However, Urmson disagrees with this approach, comparing it to eventually being able to fly by getting better and better at jumping.

Instead, Google plans to start testing its cars on the streets of Manhattan this year as part of a steeper learning curve and, according to Urmson, the company is still convinced that it can deliver a truly autonomous car by the end of the decade.


JPJ to create app for public to help nab traffic offenders

                PUTRAJAYA: A mobile application for the public to upload pictures of errant motorists is being developed by the Road Transport Department (JPJ).

Its enforcement director Datuk V. Valluvan Veloo said the move was to make it easier for the public to help the department nab culprits. Such pictures, he said, should not be limited to motorists who misused emergency and fast lanes but for other offences such as heavily tinted windows or modified vehicles.

JPJ personnel, added Valluvan, could not be everywhere and they were happy to receive such pictures from the public. “We want to encourage more people to snap pictures and send us the evidence,” he said in an interview.

However, he cautioned those taking the pictures to ensure that they were not breaking the law themselves. Those driving had no business using their phones to snap pictures of others talking on the phones, he said, adding that the task should be left to the passengers.

The department, he pointed out, had even acted against one of its own after pictures of an officer talking on the phone while driving a JPJ vehicle went viral last month. The officer in question was given a summons and transferred to another section as well as referred to the disciplinary board for further action.

Valluvan said 70% of information about those misusing the emergency lane came from the public, adding that action had been taken against these drivers. The number of drivers illegally using emergency lanes, he said, had reduced with stricter enforcement, adding that so far, 2,280 motorists were caught for the offence.

Currently, the public can still send pictures by e-mailing these to aduantrafik@jpj.gov.my with details, including time, location and vehicle plate number.

On another issue, Valluvan warned that action would be taken against those with illegal strobe lights, fancy horns or sirens on their vehicles. He said there had been instances when motorcades were illegally escorted by riders on superbikes with strobe lights.


UMW Toyota Motor sales jump by over 30% in March

                SHAH ALAM: Malaysia’s top non-national automotive brand under UMW Toyota Motor has posted a strong upward trend for March, recording a total sale of 8,386 of Toyota and 101 of Lexus vehicles.

Numbers for the month of February were recorded at 6,432, while March sees sales at 8,487 or a growth of over 30%.

Month-on-month, sales achieved for Lexus in March is at 101 units, while for the previous month sales were at 66 units.

 Yaris.

For year-to-date, total sales topped at 22,447 units and are expected to continue the momentum.

The company said the encouraging sales results were due to its ongoing March promotions offering soaring rewards to its customers including value added benefits worth RM4,000 for Toyota best-sellers such as Vios and Yaris.

It is also anticipating further boost in sales with upcoming new product launches later in the year.

 Vios.

UMW Toyota Motor president Ravindran K said the company is constantly reviewing and adapting to the changing circumstances and uncertainties.

“Toyota has always been known for our proficiency in supply chain management and risk mitigation measures. Leveraging on these experiences, we are working closely with our suppliers and monitoring the developments closely to ensure minimal impact to our production and our customers,” he said.

Celebrations for the months of Ramadan and Syawal, with the theme, ‘Bersama Lebih Bermakna’, are underway with the launch of UMW Toyota Motor’s Pandu Uji dan Menang Duit Raya contest from now until May 1.

Toyota enthusiasts are encouraged to drop by any Toyota showroom and test drive any Toyota model for some ‘duit raya’.

Each test drive is a contest entry to win ‘duit raya’ worth RM100 while a test drive and successful booking stands a chance to receive RM200 ‘duit raya’.

A total of 30 winners will be selected to receive ‘duit raya’ weekly.

In addition, Toyota will continue its ‘Bersama Lebih Bermakna’ celebrations at the Ramadan Weekender on April 16 and 17 at all Toyota outlets nationwide.

Toyota customers can indulge in great ‘bulan puasa’ deals and value added offers at any Toyota showroom throughout Malaysia.

Visitors who test drive Toyota vehicles will receive exclusive gifts (while stock lasts).

Meanwhile, UMW Toyota Motor has launched a new 3S centre in Cyberjaya to offer better services to customers in the area.

Operated by Otomobil Sejahtera Sdn Bhd, the centre will have complete facilities consisting of sales, services along with spare parts.

Ravindran said the company believes in providing the best experience for Toyota customers at each touch point.

“From the point of purchase, to the after sales service, and on to their next repurchase, it is important that they feel the Toyota touch at every step.

“This new 3S service centre is just our way of bringing our brand closer to our customers, wherever they may be, while ensuring they have seamless access to our services whenever they need them,” he said.

For details, visit Toyota.com.my or call the Toyota freephone line at 1-800-8-TOYOTA
(869682).