Proton powers ahead with Iriz seeing stellar growth

                SUBANG JAYA: The Iriz zoomed past other Proton models with a sales growth of 602% that translated to 2009 units sold in the first quarter.

Overall, a total of 21,757 units were sold in the first three months of the year, which resulted in the company’s market share growing from 17.4% to 20.1% of Total Industry Volume (TIV), Proton said in a statement released today.

This enabled Proton to achieve an improvement in sales by 20.4% in the first quarter of 2020 compared to the corresponding period in 2019.

In comparison to Q1 2019, Proton’s volume seller, the Saga, showed an increase of 36% with a total of 8,824 units sold.

 Dr Li.
The Persona recorded a 243% gain with 5,677 units and the Exora grew by 17% to 1,091 units. As for the Proton X70, despite seeing a decline of 48% with a total of 4,145 units sold, it still achieved the distinction of being the best-selling SUV in the country for Q1.

For the month of March, Proton sold a total of 3,277 units which was a 41% decrease from March 2019 and a 67% decrease from February 2020. The company attributed its showing to the movement control order (MCO) that has seen all sales outlets shut since 18 March and is expected to affect car sales drastically this year.

“While our performance in January and February was very strong and far ahead of 2019, our momentum was slowed due to the MCO. However, the safety of Malaysia and its people is far more important than any commercial considerations, so Proton stands by the Government on the measures taken”, said Proton CEO Dr Li Chunrong.

On the outlook, the company sees 2020 as "a very challenging year" as the fallout from Covid-19 after the MCO ends, puts businesses in unchartered territory.

At present, Proton has continued to operate with its staff working from home and a skeletal workforce maintains critical equipment at its facilities.

“We are using this time to strategise and plan our next moves. ... Considering our improvement over the last two years, I am quietly confident that Proton will be able to overcome this crisis as we stay focused on our long-term goals," said Dr Li.


Infiniti upgrades Q30 and QX30, introduces new grading system

ZURICH: Infiniti has upgraded the specifications of both the Q30 and QX30 for 2018 along with the introduction of a new cross product global grading structure, featuring the names of PURE, LUXE and SPORT.

Q30
The entry grade “PURE” (previously SE) comes equipped with standard features such as forward collision avoidance, automatic headlamps, LED running lamps, Bluetooth audio streaming and multi-function leather steering wheel.

Customers who want to choose a more complete package can either go in the comfort direction, called “LUXE”, or into sporty models, dubbed “SPORT”. Both grades offer more engine choices, along with InTouch navigation, 18” (LUXE) and 19” (SPORT) alloy wheels, dual rectangular chrome exhaust finishers and lane departure warning as standard features.

In both cases, stepping up to LUXE TECH or SPORT TECH provides an upgraded technology experience with DAB radio, intelligent cruise control and blind spot warning. Around View Monitor with Moving Object Detection helps make it easy to park and if that is not enough then auto park uses its 12 sensors to measure the dimensions of the parking spot and help steer the vehicle into it; the driver only needs to apply the accelerator and brakes.

The Q30 SPORT and SPORT TECH versions feature specific design elements such as sports bumpers with a diffuser at the back. A 20mm lower ride height features on the 2.0-litre petrol and 2.2-litre diesel engine versions.

QX30
QX30 will only feature in LUXE and LUXE TECH grades but offers design updates, with optional 19” resurfaced, 5 double spokes light alloy wheels, achieving a more commanding look.

Both Q30 and QX30 offer a set of connected services, such as “InTouch Tracking” to track the car in case it is stolen, and “My Car Finder” to see the whereabouts of the car on a map and provide a route back to its location.

Prices start at £20,600 (RM112,451) for the Q30 1.6t petrol version with the SPORT repositioned to offer even better value than before from £26,060.

The new Q30 and QX30 are available to order now and will be in showrooms as of March 2018.


Yamaha Star Venture now wears Bridgestone Exedra tyres

                TOKYO: Bridgestone (Japan) announced that its EXEDRA G853 (front) and EXEDRA G852 (rear) tyres will be original equipment on Yamaha Motor’s new Star Venture cruiser motorcycle.

The Star Venture will be Yamaha Motor’s flagship motorcycle that comes equipped with a large LCD screen, saddle bags and a touring trunk.

According to Bridgestone, the EXEDRA tyres help to contribute to the handling-stability and ride comfort of the new flagship model, which will be available in the North American market in August 2017.

The tyre was specially designed to for the Star Venture with an optimized tyre shape and structure, particularly for cruiser motorcycles.

The Japanese tyremaker also boasts that its motorcycle tyre has been designed with shock-absorption technology as well as stability that's needed for straight-running, handling and steering responsiveness.


Digi's iFleet Wi-Fi to help connect commuters on the go

                SUBANG JAYA: Digi Telecommunications Sdn Bhd (Digi) has launched a Wi-Fi solution - iFleet Wi-Fi, to enable bus and train companies as well as other land transport operators to offer seamless connectivity to commuters.

This is the local telecommunications provider's first subscription-based transport connectivity solution which looks at improving onboard passenger experience by helping to transform travel time into productive time.

The new service was piloted with several customers and most recently in Sarawak with Bus Kuching - an electric bus service in the state, and was well received by its passengers thanks to the provided connectivity during their daily commute.

Digi’s Chief Digital Officer, Praveen Rajan said that as public Wi-Fi availability grows, passengers increasingly expect to be in constant communication with their work or social networks, wherever they are.

“Based on a survey done by Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) in 2018, 68.1% of Malaysians use the Internet when they were on-the-go.

As such, the opportunity to increase productivity while travelling is making public and commercial transport usage more attractive, and the industry has reached the point where Wi-Fi on transit is now deemed to be an essential offering for land transport operators,” she said.

With iFleet Wi-Fi, land transport operators can reduce their costs by benefitting from minimal upfront investment – the simple subscription service provides a much lower cost for the Wi-Fi service that is typically very expensive for commercial vehicles.

Commercial vehicle and land transport operating companies can also choose to customise their brand message on the Wi-Fi landing page to further personalise the service to their passengers.

This also allows the operators to serve ads on their landing page to further monetise the service.

Given the increasing use of Wi-Fi enabled mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets, Wi-Fi can be effective to gather passenger data and insights in which land transport operators can leverage to improve their services.

“With iFleet Wi-Fi, land transport operators get the best of both worlds – not only do they get to provide their passengers with quality service, but they also get to save on their operating cost. Passenger data and insights are also helpful to meet passengers’ expectations accordingly – ultimately we want to provide a service that is of value to our customers and will help their businesses grow,” explained Praveen.

iFleet Wi-Fi provides stable and fast connectivity via Digi’s 4G-LTE network.

The service supports multiple concurrent users and cross-border connectivity in Singapore and Thailand.

For more information or log on to ifleet.my/ifleet-wifi.


Drive hybrid and electric cars at Paris Motor Show

                PARIS: This year's Paris Motor Show from Oct 1-16 will once again feature a test centre for electric and hybrid cars where visitors can try out models from different manufacturers.

The test centre, operated in partnership with French electricity supplier EDF, will be located in Pavillion 3 of the Paris Expo Porte de Versailles exhibition centre. As well as offering advice and demonstrations, visitors can get a feel for electric and hybrid vehicles made by various manufacturers, getting behind the wheel for a quick spin around the streets of Paris.

The test centre is open from 10:30am to 7:30pm (or until 10pm on Thursday and Friday), with the last available test drive at 6:30pm (9pm on Thursday and Friday). Bookings can be made at manufacturer stands or directly at the reception area of the test centre. After booking a slot, visitors should check in at reception, then wait their turn for a look inside the various vehicles.

The test centre aims to give visitors a taste of what it's like to drive this kind of car, as well as raise awareness about greener driving options that are still largely overlooked by the public.

In 2014, more than 10,000 test drives were carried out as part of the event.


BMW Brilliance Automotive opens battery factory in Shenyang

                MUNICH: BMW has teamed up with its Chinese joint venture partner to set up a Li-ion battery plant in Shenyang, China.

The plant, catering to only the Chinese market, will supply the nearby Dadong plant, which is operated by the BMW Brilliance Automotive (BBA) joint venture and will produce the 5 Series Plug-in Hybrid for the local market.

It is the first BMW battery plant in China after similar ones in Germany and the United States. The company already produces electrified vehicles at ten locations worldwide.

“By 2025, we expect our electrified BMW and MINI models to account for between 15 and 25 per cent of global sales," said BMW AG board member for production Oliver Zipse.

"This adds up to several hundred thousand vehicles per year. It therefore makes sense for us to integrate electro-mobility into the existing production system. Doing so will enable the BMW Group to respond flexibly to demand for electrified models."

Production of high-voltage batteries is divided into two production stages. First, in a highly-automated process, supplied lithium-ion cells, which are about the size of a paperback book, are checked and then combined into a larger unit, the so-called battery module.

The battery modules are then mounted together with the connections, control units and cooling units in an aluminium housing. The size and shape of the aluminium housing, as well as the number of battery modules used, depends on the vehicle variant. In this way, a "battery pack" or high-voltage battery is created.

This combination of standardised battery modules and housings flexibly adapted to the vehicle has several advantages: It ensures uniform properties and quality standards in the production of high-voltage batteries. The modular design of the high-voltage batteries also forms the basis for a wide variety of electric drive variants. Last but not least, this modular concept is a requirement for responding quickly to customer demand and leveraging cost benefits.

At present, the Dadong plant produces the 5 Series Long-Wheelbase Version and soon the plug-in hybrid variants of the 5 Series and the X3. Another plant in China makes the X1 Long-Wheelbase Version (including a plug-in hybrid variant), the 1 Series Sedan, the 2 Series Active Tourer, the 3 Series Long-Wheelbase Version and the 3 Series Sedan. A separate engine plant produces the latest generation of the BMW TwinPower Turbo three and four-cylinder petrol engines.


Acura to demonstrate science of speed with special SEMA NSX

                LAS VEGAS: The long-awaited standard NSX is already one of the fastest, exciting and technologically advanced supercars money can buy but for this year's SEMA show the company is partnering with NSX aftermarket experts ScienceofSpeed to take the car, and its capabilities, to another level.

Codenamed the "Dream Project" Acura NSX, ScienceofSpeed has managed to boost the car's output to 610hp and 507lb-ft of torque.

Those numbers aren't massive increases on the stock car's 573hp and 476lb-ft of torque but the company has found those gains through maximizing engine efficiency rather than simply fitting a huge turbo- or supercharger to the engine and hoping for the best. The show car has unique downpipes exhaust and a liquid injection intercooling system that together provide these attainable, reliable boosts.

However outside, things get a little more obvious. The car has a bigger aerodynamics package reminiscent of GT3 class racing including ducted rocker panel side skirts, a much larger rear spoiler and a front splitter. The car has also been lowered to improve track performance but not at the sake of usability. It also has a pneumatic lift kit for coping with speed bumps and other on-road obstacles.

The makeover continues inside with the addition of black leather Recaro racing seats and a second instrument gauge mounted above the main binnacle for clearly displaying performance data when on the track.

"ScienceofSpeed is thrilled to present our expression of the second generation NSX unlimited and unrestricted," said Chris Willson, general manager of ScienceofSpeed. "Devoted NSX fans share in a rich 27-year history, and with the second generation NSX reaching the aftermarket community, now is an extraordinary time to be an NSX enthusiast. We are thrilled to share our passion for this iconic platform."

This year's SEMA show runs Oct 31-Nov 3.


Proton sets up new 3S centre in Kuantan

                KUANTAN: Proton has officially opened its new 3S (Sales, Service and Spare parts) centre in Kuantan - making it the third dealer outlet in the state of Pahang to carry the company’s new corporate identity.

Operated by Pesat Auto CTM Sdn Bhd, the RM2.3mil facility is centrally located along the town’s main road and looks to boost sales by about 30%.

Service throughput could also possibly increase by 40% with the company's six bays and four hoists.

“What we are trying to do is to ensure that when a customer walks into a Proton outlet, they immediately feel the brand's experience," said Proton chief executive officer Dr Li Chunrong

Proton sales in August saw 9,127 units sold nationwide, and a 36% year-on-year growth, making it the highest among the top five brands in the country.

The company is also optimistic about sales and is confident of closing the year with higher numbers.

"We emphasise customer care, and more importantly, addressing any issues in a professional way. We understand, that listening to customers cannot be an option – it is a priority," added Li.

According to the local car maker's data, every region has outperformed last year's figures.

The East Coast has seen an 8% growth for the region with Pahang faced with a 10% increase.

"The more we engage with the needs of our customers, the better we are able to serve them and solve their problems,” he said.

Models like the Saga and Persona remain a favourite with the X70 accounting for 30% of sales in the state.

To-date PROTON has 102 outlets with 3S & 4S status in operation nationwide.

“We will continue to embark on this transformational journey, and we will strive to continue to wow our customers. Hopefully, with more upgraded 3S & 4S outlets in place nationwide, we will slowly but surely draw more customers to the brand.”


Proton X90 open for booking

                SUBANG JAYA: Proton has started taking orders for the upcoming X90 three-row seating sports utility vehicle (SUV).

Bookings can be made at all Proton 3S/4S centres.

The national carmaker will also be holding exclusive city preview sessions by invitation on April 15 and 16 in Johor and Pahang, and April 29 and 30 in Sabah and Sarawak.

The X90 is Proton's first New Energy Vehicle and the third SUV for the Xseries model line-up.

The X90 features a belt-starter generator (BSG) motor to deliver an extra boost of 13PS and 45Nm of torque to supplement the vehicle's 1.5-litre TGDI engine to produce a total output of 190PS and 300Nm of torque.

The large SUV will be available in four variants of the seven-seater Standard, Executive and Premium, and the six-seater Flagship.

Standard (Base specification)
> 1.5 TGDi engine with Mild-Hybrid
> 7-speed Dual Clutch Transmission
> Full LED Headlamps
> 18-inch Alloy Wheels
> Fabric Seats
> 12.3-inch Infotainment Head Unit
> Reverse Camera
> Colour Options: Snow White, Armor Silver, Jet Grey

Executive (Upgrades from Standard)
> Tyre Pressure Monitoring System
> Power Tailgate
> Leatherette Seats
> Driver Power Seats
> Front Ventilated Seats
> 360 Camera with 3D Display
> Additional Colour Options: Cinnamon Brown, Red Ruby

Premium (Upgrades from Executive)
> Advanced Driver Assistance System
> 19-inch Alloy Wheels
> Nappa Leather Seats
> Front Passenger Power Seat
> Wireless Charger
> Auto Park Assist
> Additional Colour Options: Marine Blue

Flagship (Upgrades from Premium)
> Panoramic Sunroof
> Front Passenger Power Seat with ‘Boss’ Switch
> Second Row Captain Seats

The X90 also comes with three new safety features of:

> Rear Collision Warning – Alerts the driver about potential rear-end collisions
> Rear Cross Traffic Alert – Detects approaching vehicles while reversing using the rear radar sensor
> Traffic Sign Information – Detects and displays road signs


BMW's UK MINI plant shuts for four weeks despite Brexit delay

                LONDON: BMW’s MINI plant in Britain closes for four weeks from Monday in a move planned over a half year ago to help the company deal with any disruption resulting from Brexit, which has since been delayed.

The German carmaker, which builds just over 15 percent of Britain’s 1.5 million cars, moved its annual summertime shutdown to April to “minimise the risk of any possible short-term parts-supply disruption in the event of a no-deal Brexit.”

But Britain’s departure from the EU has now been pushed back from March 29 until at least April 12 or potentially much later, scuppering the timing of major contingency plans for some carmakers.

Shutdowns are organised far in advance so employee holidays can be scheduled and suppliers can adjust volumes, making them hard to move.

“This is what our company and our workforce have planned for over many months and it is fixed into our business planning,” said a BMW spokesman.

It represents the latest headache for Britain’s once roaring car sector which had been on track for record production but since 2017 has posted sharp falls in sales, output and investment.

The overwhelmingly foreign-owned industry has become increasingly incredulous as a stable and attractive investment environment descends into one of its deepest political crises, risking the free and frictionless trade the sector relies on.

BMW’s Rolls-Royce factory in Goodwood will close for two weeks whilst Jaguar Land Rover’s (JLR) three car plants and engine facility and Honda’s Swindon facility will also shut for a few days this month as part of Brexit contingencies.

It has been a turbulent few months for the sector after Nissan canceled plans to build a new sport utility vehicle at its English Sunderland plant and Honda said it would shutter its plant in 2021 in the biggest blow to the sector for years.

Toyota provided a rare boost when it announced plans to build cars for Suzuki at its English car plant.

BMW, which is also closing its central English Hams Hall engine facility and Swindon press shop and sub-assembly site for four weeks, has said it could move some engine and MINI output out of Britain if there is not an orderly Brexit.

Carmakers face a number of risks if there is a disorderly Brexit, including delays to the supply of ports and finished models, new customs bureaucracy, the need to re-certify models and an up to 10 percent tariff on finished vehicles.

A series of investment decisions are coming up, including whether Peugeot’s parent company PSA will keep its Ellesmere Port plant open and if it will build electric vans at its southern English Luton facility.

Petrochemicals firm Ineos is also due to choose the location for its off-roader whilst a decision is pending on whether JLR will build electric vehicles in its home market.


New Maserati models on the horizon for Malaysia

KUALA LUMPUR: Maserati fans in Malaysia will be offered the full range of new-generation models from the Italian luxury performance brand.

Its head of Asia Pacific, Takayuki Kimura, said the new models would include those powered by traditional internal combustion engines (ICE), mild hybrids and the 'Folgore' battery electric vehicles (BEV).

"Among the models coming to Asean markets next year is the 'Folgore' BEV version of the GranTurismo, " he said at the launch of the Maserati Grecale GT hybrid in Kuala Lumpur recently.

Naza Italia, a unit of the Naza Automotive group, is the importer of Maserati cars in Malaysia.

 Kimura at the launch of the Grecale GT hybrid with (from left) Farid and Rizal.

Also present at the launch were Naza Automotive group chief executive officer Mohd Rizal Jailan and Naza Italia chief operating officer Farid Sulaiman.

Kimura said Maserati's brand image was strong in the region as Maserati is associated with Italian taste, design and high craftsmanship with fine materials.

He said some German brands have cars with powerful engines but many customers do not recognise their level of luxury.

"The quality of our luxurious materials is higher although our vehicle sales volume is lower by comparison.

"Having a lower or limited volume means being exclusive which is also a definition of luxury. In a way, we are quite unique without competitors," he said.

He said Maserati had switched its strategy towards enhancing its line-up of sports utility vehicles (SUVs).

"Obviously the trend is shifting from sedans to sports utility vehicles.

"In the past, we only have the Levante. Now, we have added the Grecale which offers the best size that is more suitable for the Asean market.

"I think the Asean and Japanese customers preferred smaller-sized vehicles, compared with those in China and the US who liked larger models.

"The Grecale still has enough interior space for a comfortable ride," he said.

 Kimura.Kimura also said the company was committed to introducing the successor to the Levante.

"So in our important markets, we will introduce our SUV models which will be the volume sellers.

"We will still place emphasis on sedan models as they are still important in certain markets," he said adding new Maserati sports sedans are in the works.

For its global powertrain development, Kimura said Maserati is also moving from internal combustion engines to mild hybrid and finally settling for BEVs.

"Before 2030, we will try to make all our vehicles BEVs as our customers will be able to afford such models.

"As there will be countries that prefer BEV more than mild-hybrid or ICE powertrain, we will customise our offerings to meet market demands," he said.

He also said Maserati BEVs would still retain the characteristics of their ICE siblings such as high performance, driving dynamics, interior space and 'vehicle sounds.'

Kimura said Maserati BEVs have an efficient design as the batteries would be placed along the vehicle's spine and under the seats, allowing the floor to remain low and create a comfortable seating position.

He said many current BEVs store their batteries under the floor and thus resulted in a high-floor environment that could tire out the passengers' legs during long drives.

 GranTurismo Folgore.Kimura also said Maserati BEVs would still produce sounds that are exciting to the driver and passengers.

"In order to attract car enthusiasts, the sound is very important.

"The Maserati BEV will get its sound from the electric motors and we will add some distinctive elements to increase aural excitement.

"The overall sound will be new and customers will still be able to feel that the vehicle is a Maserati," he said.

He said many motoring journalists had test driven the GranTurismo Folgore in Italy and they had appreciated the vehicle's sound.

"You will like it if you hear it," he said.

Without sounds, Kimura said driving cars would be boring.

"That is the challenge of BEVs," he added.


People still leery of using driverless tech

                NEW YORK: Most people are still wary of driverless technology, with over half of those surveyed saying they would not consider riding in a fully autonomous vehicle.

However, 71 percent may consider riding in a partially autonomous vehicle.

The online survey was conducted by Gartner Inc. from April through May, and polled 1,519 people in the United States and Germany.

Concerns around technology failures and security are key reasons why many consumers are cautious about fully autonomous vehicles.

"Fear of autonomous vehicles getting confused by unexpected situations, safety concerns around equipment and system failures and vehicle and system security are top concerns around using fully autonomous vehicles," explains Gartner research director Mike Ramsey.

Survey respondents agreed that fully autonomous vehicles do offer many advantages, including improved fuel economy and a reduced number and severity of crashes. Additional benefits they identified include having a safe transportation option when drivers are tired and using travel time for entertainment and work.

The survey found that consumers who currently embrace on-demand car services are more likely to ride in and purchase partially and fully autonomous vehicles. "This signifies that these more evolved users of transportation methods are more open towards the concept of autonomous cars," said Ramsey.

Dozens of companies are currently developing sensors and other technologies required to enable vehicles to detect and understand their surroundings. As of mid-2017, more than 46 companies are building artificial intelligence (AI)-based software to control an autonomous vehicle and make it operate in the world.

"Autonomous driving technology will fundamentally transform the automotive industry, changing the way vehicles are built, operated, sold, used and serviced," said Ramsey.


Get used Mazda cars from Mazda Anshin website

                PETALING JAYA: Bermaz Motor has launched its Mazda Anshin website today, allowing customers to buy or sell used Mazda cars in a simple, secured and convenient way.

The Mazda Anshin website caters to Mazda’s pre-owned vehicles (company demo vehicles) and Mazda customers' used vehicles that have undergone strict inspection and are certified by Mazda.

All the cars on the site have undergone an 111-point inspection at Mazda service centres in Glenmarie, Shah Alam and here.

The inspection, performed by Mazda certified technicians, takes an hour and a RM200 fee is charged.

To qualify for a listing, the used Mazda units must not have major accident damages, no frame damages and no flood damage.

Potential buyers can test-drive the cars at Mazda Pre-owned Centres in Glenmarie and Kajang.

For more information, call the Mazda Anshin hotline 603-76273308.


BMW M debuts new M8 Gran Coupe MotoGP Safety Car, MotoGP rider Oliveira wins new M4

                SPIELBERG (Austria): BMW M presented over the weekend the new M8 Gran Coupe MotoGP Safety Car at the Red Bull Ring in conjunction with the BMW M MotoGP Grand Prix of Styria, where rider Miguel Oliveira won a 2021 model M4 for emerging champion.

CarSifu wrote last week about the prototype debut of the new M4 and M4 GT3 at the event. The new M4 will make its world debut in the autumn.

On the subject of the new safety car, it is based on the 4-door M8 Competition Gran Coupe. The M8 Gran Coupe MotoGP Safety Car has been fitted with a plethora of BMW M Performance parts.

These include the carbon engine cover, including enhancement, the door mirror caps, the rear spoiler and the rear diffusor, the carbon grille on the sides and the steering wheel. The carbon front flaps and the front splitter are exclusively handmade.

Recaro sport seats provide optimum support for the driver, even at racing speed. Also vital for service as a safety car is the light bar on the roof, which uses the latest LED technology.

 Flasch with Oliveira and the new M4. he won.

BMW M CEO Markus Flasch was present to congratulate the MotoGP victor.

“A fantastic performance saw him outpace the fierce competition in the MotoGP race at the BMW M Grand Prix of Styria. As a long-standing partner of Dorna and title sponsor of the event, we are delighted to honour Miguel with the new BMW M4 as a reward for his victory.

"But he will have to wait a little while to drive his BMW M4 – the car is so new that it isn’t actually on the market yet. However, we’re confident that he will have a lot of fun with it – as the first test drive shortly after the race has already proved.”


Workshop owner loses RM100,000 in Kota Tinggi floods

                KOTA TINGGI: A workshop owner in Jalan Kota Kecil 1 here suffered losses of around RM100,000 after his premises were flooded due to continuous rain since yesterday morning.

Hairul Helme Abd Rahman, 43, said eight cars belonging to his customers were also fully submerged in floodwaters.

"At 11 am yesterday, the water rose rapidly to 1.5 metres, and I did not have time to save anything. This is the worst disaster I had to deal with after six years of running the business here,” he told reporters today.

Hairul Helme said he had to close his workshop for about two weeks for cleaning works and to repair the equipment and machinery damaged by the floods.

A restaurant owner, Siti Mumsiah Idris, 58, said floodwaters started to enter her premises at 5 am today, damaging three refrigerators, with losses estimated at RM2,000.

"The water began to recede at 11 am and now, my family and I have started cleaning up the premises. However, this flood was not as bad as in 2006,” she said.

A Bernama check found around 15 business premises in Jalan Kota Kecil 1, and their respective owners are busy conducting cleaning works.

Meanwhile, Johor Zone 2 acting chief Deputy Fire Superintendent II Tahrin Saat said firefighters have geared up to face any possibility of floods due to the uncertain weather conditions and reminded residents to avoid wading in floodwaters.


PLUS Expressway toll rates down 18% nationwide

                PETALING JAYA: Tolls rates will be lowered by 18% at the stroke of midnight throughout Malaysia for highways operated by PLUS Expressway.

The 18% reduction in toll is given to passenger vehicles, buses and taxis except for commercial vehicles.

The toll rates for private cars on Penang's Second Bridge will also be the same as toll rates of the first bridge after the discount.

PLUS Expressway operates the North-South Expressway, New Klang Valley Expressway (NKVE), Seremban - Port Dickson Highway (SPDH), North-South Expressway Central Circle (ELITE), Malaysia–Singapore Second Link (LINKEDUA), East Coast Highway Phase 2 (LPT 2), Butterworth - Kulim Expressway (BKE), Penang Bridge and Penang Second Bridge.

The current Pakatan Harapan government recently struck a deal with PLUS Malaysia Bhd that allows it a 20-year extension on collecting toll until 2058.

Khazanah Nasional Bhd and the Employees Provident Fund maintains ownership of Plus Expressway at 51% and 49% respectively.


2016 Bangkok Motor Show: Sweet and lovely

                BANGKOK: The 37th Bangkok International Motor Show is in full swing and just like every year, there's always the ladies at their respective booths to add the soft touch to the myriad exhibits.

Their sweet "sawadee kha" greetings always come with a smile that's enough to brighten up the day.

The show is being held for 12 days from March 23 till April 3 at the Challenger Hall 1-3 of Impact Muang Thong Thani here.


Car services groups warn of unfair competition as EU data plan stalls

                BRUSSELS: Car services groups warned a stalled EU proposal to ensure fair access to valuable vehicle data could pave the way for unfair competition from US and Chinese tech companies.

The vehicle data tussle between carmakers and a coalition of insurers, leasing companies and repair shops underscores the huge potential of the connected car market, which consultancy Fortune Business Insights says could grow to 250 billion-400 billion euros (up to RM1.9tril) by 2030.

Carmakers are looking to generate revenue from software products and subscription services driven by data which covers everything from driving habits to fuel consumption and tyre wear.

Data ownership, however, is not clearly defined in EU law, which has spawned the current dispute between carmakers and those who want to access it.

The European Commission had originally planned to adopt rules on how the data should be shared in the second quarter of the year, according to its agenda, but has yet to come up with a legislative proposal.

Car services groups are already concerned about the small number of players in the industry with access to the data, said Benjamin Krieger, secretary general of the European Association of Automotive Suppliers (CLEPA).

Unfair access could soon mean the sector "will be dominated by players from the United States and China", he told reporters on Friday.

Another problem, which legislation could solve, is unstandardised data, said Laurianne Krid, director general of the Federation Internationale de l'Automobile, which promotes safety in motor sports.

Car makers in turn said the Commission's proposed Data Act gives users control over data generated by vehicles, providing third parties fair and non-discriminatory access to the data.

Krieger said it does not address the specificities in the auto sector. "It does not reflect the technology and the competitive situation," he said.

The Commission did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Alphabet's Google has already got a foothold in the market, picked by General Motors to develop infotainment systems for future electric vehicles as the US carmaker phases out Apple CarPlay and Android Auto technologies.

Last month, Mercedes Benz teamed up with Google to offer traffic information and automatic rerouting in its cars.


VW unveils two 'Obi-Wan Kenobi' inspired ID. Buzz vehicles at Star Wars celebration

                WASHINGTON: Two special ‘Obi-Wan Kenobi’ inspired Volkswagen ID. Buzz vehicles are part of this year’s Star Wars Celebration in Anaheim, California (May 26-29), part of the brand’s ongoing collaboration with the new series, coming to Disney+ on May 27.

The showcars, ID. Buzz ‘Light Side Edition’ and the ID. Buzz ‘Dark Side Edition,’ embody the Light and Dark side with eye-catching looks designed to delight and thrill Star Wars fans.

Both ID. Buzz showcars were on the carpet at the premiere of ‘Obi-Wan Kenobi,’ a surprise addition to the fan event, where Volkswagen brand ambassador and star of the series, Ewan McGregor, was also in attendance.

This is the first-time Volkswagen and Lucasfilm designers are working together on a project.

Using special adhesive films on the body of the ID. Buzz vehicles, the designers created skins that convey the two sides, drawing specific inspiration from Obi-Wan Kenobi and Darth Vader, two iconic characters from the upcoming series.

ID. Buzz ‘Light Side Edition’

Based on the passenger version of the car, the colour of the lower section of the ‘Light Side Edition’ is beige, taking inspiration from the hue of Obi-Wan Kenobi’s tunic.

The shiny chrome on the upper section references the design of spaceships and droids from the Star Wars universe.

A blue line on the side, which continues to the front of the ID. Buzz into the headlights and light strip, symbolizes Obi-Wan’s blue lightsaber.

The glass surfaces of the electric ID. Buzz are designed in transparent blue, matching perfectly with the underbody lighting.

Logos of the Rebel Alliance can be found on the side windows as well as on the center caps of the rims. The customised 21-inch wheels carry through the unique design of the entire vehicle.

ID. Buzz ‘Dark Side Edition’

The ID. Buzz Cargo serves as the platform for this edition. Through ominous shades of black and red, the ID. Buzz ‘Dark Side Edition’ embodies the Dark Side.

The film is shiny black on the lower area of the body, while the upper section of the ID. Buzz is draped in matte black. Side lines, headlights, light strips and window surfaces are in a red hue, inspired by Darth Vader’s lightsaber.

The contrast of red and black is continued by the red underbody lighting. The centers of the uniquely designed 21-inch rims and the body of the ID. Buzz bear the logo of the Empire.

The unveiling of these one-of-a-kind showcars is the next step in the brand’s celebration of the new series, following the launch last week.

The new limited Star Wars series “Obi-Wan Kenobi” will be available on Disney+ from today. The new ID. Buzz and ID. Buzz Cargo can already be ordered in European markets.


Govt to compensate two highway concessionaires for toll abolishment

The Sungai Rasau toll plaza.
KUALA LUMPUR: The Federal government will compensate PLUS Malaysia Bhd (PLUS) for the abolishment of toll collection at Batu Tiga, Sungai Rasau along the Federal Highway and, at the Bukit Kayu Hitam toll plaza in Kedah.

The other concessionaire, Malaysian Resources Corporation Bhd, which owns the Eastern Dispersal Link (EDL) in Johor, will also be paid by the government for the loss in revenue when toll is scrapped on this highway on Jan 1, 2018.

“We are already in the final stage of the discussion and we have to pay (the compensation) because the government has taken over their assets and toll collection, and this is all for the people,” said Second Finance Minister Datuk Seri Johari Abdul Ghani over the “Soal-Jawab” recorded programme aired over TV3 on Wednesday.

He stressed that the government had to absorb the losses incurred by the companies involved.

Government compensation for the Batu Tiga and Sungai Rasau tolls in Selangor is estimated at RM102mil, annually, while for scrapping the toll at Bukit Kayu Hitam, the government would have to cough out an estimated RM8mil from its coffers.

Last Friday, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak, who is also the Finance Minister, announced the abolishment of four tolls, starting Jan 1.


News of Kidex cancellation met with joy and scepticism

                PETALING JAYA: The Selangor government’s announcement on the cancellation of the Kinrara-Damansara Expressway (Kidex) took everyone by surprise as Kidex Sdn Bhd had been given a nine-month extension from Feb 15 to fulfil conditions under its concession agreement.

For residents such as Dr Anthony Lawrence, Mentri Besar’s Azmin Ali’s press statement came as a huge relief after the earlier bad news.

“It is a relief to read that the state government is not entertaining the project.

“When they remove any mention of the highway from the Selangor Structure Plan 2035 draft, we can all rest easy,” he added.

 Section 5 resident Rafiq believes Kidex could have eased traffic jams.

A Jalan 17/24 resident who only wanted to be known as Mrs Chen, however expressed some scepticism.

“I am more than happy to hear the state has cancelled it, but is this just a delaying move or is it final? What if the Federal Government still wants to push it through?” she asked.

In the wake of the joy expressed by Petaling Jaya residents over Kidex’s cancellation, others are asking how Azmin will apply the same conditions for other proposed highways in Selangor.

Anti-highway group Say No To Dash (SNTD), formed in response to the Damansara-Shah Alam Elevated Expressway (Dash), hoped for similar good news.

It said that Dash’s concessionaire Prolintas had not engaged residents in Damansara Perdana and Mutiara Damansara affected by the proposed highway.

SNTD, which met with Azmin on Dec 16 to present their case as well, said they were told that he would meet with the Malaysian Highways Authority (LLM) and Prolintas to express residents’ concerns about Dash.

In a shock announcement on Jan 25 however, the Works Ministry had announced the approval of Dash, backdated to the expressway’s concession agreement expiry date on Dec 25.

Taking a leaf from the Independent Review on Kidex report, SNTD has also sent in a written request to Petaling Jaya deputy mayor to conduct an independent review on Dash, especially on the expressway’s third Damansara segment.

However, not everyone greeted the news with joy. Section 5 resident Mohamed Rafiq Fazal Din for one is disappointed that Kidex has been cancelled.

“A lot of motorists are currently using residential roads in areas like Section 5, Taman Sentosa and Kawasan Melayu to avoid traffic congestion.

“Kidex is not a genie to take away traffic, but at least those driving through PJ would have taken that highway to get to their destinations on the other side of the Klang Valley,” said Rafiq Fazal.


Toyota's 'Kirobo Mini' goes on sale in Japan

                TOYOTA CITY: Toyota has launched sales of its Kirobo Mini communication partner on Wednesday through its dealerships across Japan.

As typical of toys, the Kirobo Mini is cuddlesome and designed to operate as a companion to humans.

It fits in the palm of the hand and is only 10 cm high when seated. It turns its head towards the person speaking and engages in what approximates casual conversation, while moving its head and hands. Its compact size means it can be taken anywhere.

Presales were launched at designated dealers in Tokyo and Aichi Prefecture in May this year, starting with customers looking to interact with communication partners such as Kirobo Mini.

One feature of Kirobo Mini is the ability for users to share their Kirobo Mini experience with other users on the official communication website "With Kirobo Mini Friend Park." The website allows users to share personal moments with their own Kirobo Mini and exchange information to help others learn more about the Kirobo Mini.

Kirobo Mini can also communicate with its owner based on information acquired from the cars and homes of users.

The Kirobo Mini is sold in Japan at 42,984 yen (RM1,589). A monthly fee of 350 yen (RM13) is required for use of the dedicated app. An optional carry case with chair costs 6,426 yen (RM238).


McLaren delivers Senna 001

McLaren Senna 001 leads the drive to Paul Ricard.
LONDON: Anyone who's lucky enough to be taking delivery of a new McLaren Senna knows they're going to be getting a very, very special car indeed.

But one customer has just taken delivery of one that could be considered even more special because it's the first customer McLaren Senna to be built and carries the chassis number 001.

The lucky person in question is London businessman David Kyte, who as soon as he took delivery of his car embarked upon a 1,400km "road-trip" where he was accompanied by five other McLarens.

After a special presentation was made by McLaren's CEO, Mike Flewitt, and other senior executives from McLaren Automotive and McLaren Special Operations at the McLaren Technology Centre in Woking, UK, 'Senna 001' headed off for the south of France.

The convoy heading across the Channel included three other McLaren Senna models, a McLaren 720S and a McLaren 600LT.

The drivers were certainly worth of a mention too as they included the racing driver and nephew of Ayrton Senna, Bruno Senna; McLaren Automotive Chief Operating Officer, Dr Jens Ludmann, and McLaren Ultimate Series Vehicle Line Director, Andy Palmer.

The group headed straight to the Circuit Paul Ricard close to Marseille, where Kyte was able to take part in a Pure McLaren driving experience over the weekend.

McLaren Automotive CEO, Mike Flewitt, commented: "Handing over the key to the first customer McLaren Senna built was an honour for me and a milestone for the company. David Kyte is a longstanding McLaren enthusiast with a true passion for our brand and a number of McLarens to prove it.

"We have had many conversations about the car he has now taken delivery of and while I believe that the McLaren Senna is already incredible in every respect, the additional work that David has commissioned from McLaren Special Operations has taken 'Senna 001' to another level."

This particular car, like all Sennas, is a bespoke model, and this one for Kyte has been finished in MSO Anniversary White with stunning livery painted in MSO Aurora Blue and the Senna brand displayed on the wing endplate.

Painting the car alone took more than 600 hours to complete, which included a pair of paint specialists spending a whole fortnight 'masking-up' the car before the livery was even applied.


Tesla boss slips in rankings on list of super-rich

 Bloomberg estimates Musk’s personal wealth has fallen 24% since January to US$160.6bil (RM662.55bil). — Reuters

NEW YORK: Elon Musk has slipped in the ranking of the very wealthy and is now in third place in the Bloomberg Billionaires List, which was published on May 17.

The dip in the South African-born entrepreneur’s fortune is linked to the ups and downs of shares in electric car manufacturer Tesla, in which he owns a large stake.

According to Bloomberg estimates, Musk’s personal wealth has fallen 24% since January to US$160.6bil (RM662.55bil).

Bernard Arnault of the luxury goods company LVMH is now in second place on the billionaire list with a total fortune worth US$161.2bil (RM665.03bil).

Amazon boss Jeff Bezos tops the list with wealth totalling US$190bil (RM783.84bil). He had only recaptured first place from Musk in March.

Musk is also in third place in the Forbes Real Time Billionaires List. However, his fortune is estimated there at only US$146.5bil (RM604.38bil).

Such rich lists are mostly based on publicly available information about assets such as stocks, real estate, art and other luxury goods. They are therefore not exact and are even controversial in some cases.


Aston Martin Vanquish Zagato Volante unveiled confirms Speedster and Shooting Brake production

                LOS ANGELES: Aston Martin unveiled its Vanquish Zagato Volante and confirmed that its Vanquish Zagato Speedster and Shooting Brake will enter production.

This ‘family’ of four Vanquish Zagato models will yield a total of 325 cars after the first member of the family, the Vanquish Zagato Coupes, commenced production in late 2016.

 Vanquish Zagato Volante

Next to enter production was the Vanquish Zagato Volante, where only 99 units will be produced, and all have already been sold and deliveries will be completed sometime in 2018.

Of the two remaining models, the Vanquish Zagato Speedster will be the rarest with only 28 cars (all sold as well) to be built and deliveries expected to be completed in 2018.

Lastly, the Vanquish Zagato Shooting Brake will enter production next year with 99 cars as well - matching both the Coupe and Volante.

 Vanquish Zagato Shooting Brake

"With only 325 cars worldwide, divided between 99 Coupes, 99 Volantes, 28 Speedsters and 99 Shooting Brakes – they are still the rarest of the rare,” said Aston Martin chief creative officer Marek Reichman.

With all four cars based upon the Vanquish S, each Zagato will use a naturally aspirated 600PS V12 mated to a Touchtronic III transmission and will adopt adaptive damping.

 Vanquish Zagato Speedster

The Speedster and Shooting Brake represent the two extremes of the Vanquish Zagato family, with the former being an uncompromising roofless design that expresses the raw excitement of an open-top ultra-high performance sports car.

The boldest aspect of the Speedster’s design is the Speed Humps that rise up to form streamlined cowls that flow back from the seats, representing Zagato’s signature ‘double-bubble’ roof.

 Vanquish Zagato Speedster

All the body panels are made from carbon fibre - just like the other cars in the Vanquish Zagato family, while shared details like the Aston Martin Vulcan-inspired ‘Blade’ tail lights and repeated 3D Zagato ‘Z’ motifs in the front grille and rear vent meshes.

The Shooting Brake is still a strict two-seater, yet still a practical Gran Turismo with a powered tailgate that opens onto a luxuriously trimmed rear cabin area, complete with a tailored luggage set.

 Vanquish Zagato Speedster

With dramatic herringbone carbon fibre facia with anodised bronze rotary controls, extensive ‘Z’ motif quilting and the option of a fully aniline leather upholstery, the Shooting Brake earns it place next to the Coupe, Volante and Speedster.

"Collaborating closely on the design of four complementary, yet completely different Vanquish Zagatos has been an incredibly exciting challenge. I’m proud to continue the story my grandfather started and thrilled that our partnership with Aston Martin continues to realise such exciting cars,” said Zagato CEO Andrea Zagato.

Aston Martin Vanquish Zagato Volante

Aston Martin Vanquish Zagato Family


Mumbai's adored Padmini taxis near the end of the road

                MUMBAI: They were named after a legendary Indian queen and were synonymous with Mumbai for half a century but the last Premier Padmini taxis will soon embark on their final journey -- to the scrapyard.

The compact black-and-yellow cabs, based on an Italian Fiat and often boasting elaborately patterned interiors, were once ubiquitous across the congested roads of India's financial capital and have featured in countless Bollywood movies.

Around 65,000 Padminis plied Mumbai at their peak in the mid-1990s but a gradual phasing out in favour of newer, more environmentally friendly vehicles has meant that today only some 300 splutter around and officials predict they will disappear completely next year.

 The dated Padmini dash and steering wheel. — All images by AFP

For many the passing of the Indian-built vehicle, a product of the Asian giant's closed economy of the 1960s and a classic, albeit now rusting, car which continues to enthral foreign tourists, will be the end of an unforgettable chapter in Mumbai's history.

"It really is an iconic car because for so long it was the only vehicle used by taxi operators here. It must have been the largest fleet in the world," said A. L. Quadros, a taxi union chief here.

The first Padminis, an Indian take on the Fiat 1100 Delight, rolled off production lines at the Premier Automobiles Limited factory in Mumbai, then called Bombay, in 1964 under an licensing agreement with the famous Italian car manufacturer.

They were initially known as "Fiat taxis" before being renamed Padmini in 1973 after mythical Hindu queen Rani Padmini who legend has it lived during the 13th and 14th centuries.

Mumbai authorities in the 1960s opted for the Padmini over the bulkier Hindustan Motors Ambassador -- the taxi of choice in Delhi and Kolkata, which was the only other car widely available in India at the time -- and their numbers increased exponentially during the '70s and '80s.

"The Padmini was chosen because it was small and attractive. It was nice to drive and you could park it anywhere easily. It was comfortable and people liked it," said Quadros.

Not known for their speed or boot space, Padminis are characterised by their low ceilings, large gear stick to the left of the steering wheel and quirky silver-coloured door handles which require passengers to trickily lift up and push to get out.

Today, many have colourful carpeted ceilings and seat covers while some boast bright, multi-coloured neon lights which illuminate the inside of the cab at night.

But they are also known for dodgy brakes, indicators that fail to work, doors that don't close properly and a tendency to let in water during Mumbai's four-month summer monsoon.

As Autocar India editor Hormazd Sorabjee points out they were hardly famous for being finely-tuned automobiles.

"The welding was poor and sloppy. Even when it came out of the factory it was in terrible condition and you'd probably have to get it fixed. That's just how it was in India in those days," he said, referring to the years before India's economy opened up in 1991.

Liberalisation paved the way for the arrival of more spacious, reliable, comfortable and fuel-efficient vehicles such as Hyundai models. Numbers steadily declined and production of Padminis was stopped altogether in 2000.

Their death knell was finally sounded in 2013 when the government implemented an anti-pollution order banning cars more than 20 years old from Mumbai's roads. The number of Padminis has declined rapidly since and Quadros expects there will be none left on the roads by December 2018.

Taxi driver Mukund Shukla, who has manoeuvred his Padmini through Mumbai's hectic streets for 20 years, is sad about the prospect of his beloved vehicle being sold for scrap.

"This Padmini has given me company for two decades and I will miss it deeply," said the 47-year-old, who plans to take a bank loan to afford the 500,000-rupee (RM33,000) cost of a new taxi.

But not everyone is upset about the Premier Padmini fading into history.

Sorabjee said: "Modern cars are light years ahead in terms of technology. The Padmini had nothing going for it by the end, nostalgia apart."


Fire risk prompts ban on electric cars in underground car parks

Firefighters in the German city of Dortmund needed to use a giant water bath to bring this EV blaze under control. — dpa
BERLIN: Electric cars may be less of a burden on the environment than diesels, but a serious downside to these zero-emission vehicles is the fire risk they pose in underground car parks.

The issue has prompted officials in Germany to ban electric cars from underground car parks in two towns after a blaze broke out in a subterranean lot.

The car that burned out two months ago in Kulmbach in Bavaria was an ageing petrol-engined VW Golf hatchback and not a pure electric.

However, the damage caused was extensive and the facility had to be shut down for five months.

Officials said the consequences would have been much worse if a battery car had caught fire. Now Teslas, all other electrics and even petrol and diesel hybrids are no longer allowed to use two underground car parks in Kulmbach and Leonberg in the German state of Baden-Wuerttemberg.

In other countries, a wider debate on whether electrics should be banned from underground car parks and tunnels was sparked after a Swiss researchers published footage of the loud bang, metre-long flames and copious amounts of thick, black smoke caused by an electric car on fire.

To see what the impact of burning electric car batteries would be on rescue services and other nearby drivers in tunnels or car parks, the Swiss Materials Testing and Research Institute (Empa) deliberately set a number of electric cars on fire in enclosed spaces.

The resulting video footage and findings, published in September 2020, are somewhat alarming.

"The visibility in the previously brightly lit tunnel section quickly approaches zero," the testers said, backing up their analysis with various videos of exploding electric cars. "After a few minutes, the battery module is completely burnt out."

Their conclusion from tests: Fire departments familiar with fires in conventional cars should be prepared to deal with this kind of fire, and the tunnel or underground car park walls and pipes should not be put at additional risk.

Experts in Germany said their fire brigades cannot extinguish electric car fires easily since the lithium-ion batteries on board continue to smoulder even when doused with water. In some cases the fire can break out again.

The only way to deal with an underground car park car fire is to let the vehicle burn out since the roof of the car park is usually too low to allow heavy equipment to drag out a blazing vehicle.

Another complex method of extinguishing electrics which catch fire is to submerge them completely in a container of water. This prevents re-ignition and the emission of toxic gases.

Although electric cars do not burst into flames more often than those with combustion engines, the blazes are usually serious.

In some cases rescuers are unable to free passengers from a burning vehicle because of the extremely high temperatures generated by burning batteries. A further hazard are short circuits of up to 1,000 volts in the car's high-voltage circuits.

After dozens of initially unexplained fires, South Korean maker Hyundai recently recalled thousands of its all-electric models on sale in the domestic market and replaced their batteries. The maker acted after a report highlighted the batteries as the cause of the fires.


Lotus opens Dubai showroom

                DUBAI: Lotus Cars stamps its mark in the UAE with a new showroom here.

The Lotus Dubai facility on Sheikh Zayed Road is the result of a partnership with Adamas Motors and offers new and existing customers the chance to experience the famous brand first hand in the heart of Dubai.

The 5,000 square foot showroom, capable of showcasing up to 10 cars, opened its doors with the presentation of the range of Lotus vehicles.

On display was the limited-edition Lotus Exige Cup 430 Type 25 with three of the worldwide volume of 25 units making their way to the GCC; the only Lotus 3-Eleven 430 in the Middle East finished in the famous Lotus black and gold livery; and the fastest Lotus production vehicle ever, the Evora GT430.

 Present at the Dubai showroom opening are (from left) Blake, Majid Saif, Adamas Motors CEO Karl Hamer and Lotus Cars Middle East regional director Jonathan Stretton.

The new Lotus Dubai showroom includes a configuration room, allowing customers to plan their Lotus vehicle colour and trim selections in a comfortable and private space, alongside a customer lounge where guests can relax and enjoy a coffee made by a barista.

Lotus customers in Dubai will be able to service their cars at a new solus Lotus, state-of-the-art workshop facility in Al Quoz, with customers welcomed to the facility in person or invited to use a performance vehicle transporter designed to carry the range of Lotus vehicles.

Officially opened by Group Lotus plc commercial director Marcus Blake and Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry chairman Majid Saif Al Ghurair, the ceremony included guests, key media and senior management from across the Lotus operations.

“The UAE is an important market for Lotus and it has even greater potential for the future. With Lotus Cars Middle East and Adamas Motors, we’re looking forward to welcoming both our current and new customers in the region to the Lotus brand,” said Blake.

Another showroom will be set up in Abu Dhabi - the UAE capital - in the coming months.


Eagle 1 launches new car video recorders

                KUALA LUMPUR: Demand for car video recorders (CVR) is increasing rapidly, in tandem with the rising numbers of vehicles on the road.

Also called driving video recorders (DVR) or dashboard cameras (dashcam), these devices record video clips that can capture important moment or situations during accidents.

Eagle I, a Malaysian brand distributed by O&G 8lectricals (M) Sdn Bhd, has over 600 dealers and 15 service centers in Malaysia.

“Eagle I was established in 2015 with a mission to help our users and their beloved ones in crime and vehicle accident situations,” said Oliver Yeo, managing director and founder of Eagle I.

He added, "We hope to see at least 50 per cent of Malaysian cars with CVRs installed."

To date, Eagle I CVR has released four mirror-type CVRs and seven portable CVRs in Malaysia.

Eagle I recently launched two CVRs namely, Vision 1 and Iris-M1.

VISION 1

The new Eagle I Vision 1 CVR offers a 3.5-inch 16:9 widescreen with 480 X 320 pixels on a 6 layer glass lens display.

It is powered by a MT6735VCM processor with 1GB of RAM and 8GB of expandable storage up to 32GB with microSD card.

It is sized 97mm X 61mm X 18mm and weighs 127 grams.

It offers Full HD camera that supports VGA/HD/FHD video resolution in 30fps recorded in 3gp video format.

The Vision 1 comes with a 400mAh capacity rechargeable battery.

It runs on Android 5.1 operating system, and has a SIM card slot for 3G/4G mobile network and WiFi connectivity.

Also, it has a WeChat app which allows the convenience of sharing videos with WeChat friends in just a few clicks.

This device also comes with unique features such as Loop recording, Find Your Car, Auto Video Lock, Capture Moments and WiFi Hotspot Sharing.

Loop recording allows the Vision 1 to continuously time and loop itself when the storage drive is full.

Meanwhile, Auto Video Lock features built-in sensors that will automatically lock the real time video when it detects sudden or rapid deceleration, strong bumps or other interference from regular driving patterns.

This feature enables protection for crucial video evidence being overwritten.

Its fully integrated WeChat features consist of WeChat Pickup, WeChat Navigation, WeChat Capture functionality.

With Wechat Pickup, your friends in your WeChat contact can now share their location directly to Vision 1.

Their location will be synced with Vision 1  and will navigate to the destination automatically.

With WeChat Navigation, built-in Google Maps enables you to send your preferred location from WeChat directly to Vision 1 for easy navigation.

With WeChat Capture and an active 4G connection, you can now use WeChat to capture videos or photos even if you are half way around the world from your car.

IRIS-M1

The Iris-M1 features a 5 inch HD display screen with 140-degree wide angle.

It is sized 264mm X 71mm X 10mm (without camera) and weights 210 grams.

With a built-in 380mAh battery, the Iris-M1 can record VGA, HD and Full HD in AVI video format while taking good photos too.

Prices and Availability

The Vision 1 will be available in Immersive Black and Galaxy Grey color options at RM738, while the Iris-M1 will cost RM448.

Additionally, for every purchase of the Vision 1 CVR, you will receive a free RedONE SIM card.

Also, Eagle I offers personal accident insurance coverage worth RM30,000 for every purchase of Eagle I CVR products.

For details, visit http://eagleicvr.com/


570hp Mercedes-AMG GT R all set for Goodwood debut

                STUTTGART: At this month's Goodwood Festival of Speed, Mercedes will be showing off a brutally fast version of the Mercedes-AMG sports coupé.

Called the Mercedes-AMG GT R, it promises be track-focused, yet road legal. So it will have a much more aggressive exterior aerodynamics package and, if sources are correct, its turbocharged V8 will be putting out 570bhp to the rear wheels.

The teaser images released on Wednesday show the car in a striking green exterior paint finish which is fitting, as Mercedes is calling the car the Beast of the Green Hell - in a reference to a potentially very impressive Nurburgring lap time.

All will be revealed on June 23 when the car makes its dynamic debut at the Goodwood Festival of Speed.


Ford's new Ranger unveiled

                KUALA LUMPUR: The Ford Ranger is back and it’s better in more ways to take the lead in the pickup truck segment with all its bells and whistles, capabilities and two new engines that are more efficient with added power.

Sime Darby Auto Connexion (SDAC), the local distributor of Ford in Malaysia, brings us the new Ranger in three variants starting with the entry-level XL, XLT and the range-topping WildTrak – priced OTR from RM91,588, RM101,388 and RM132,188 respectively.

The new Ranger now comes with a newly designed hood, trapezoidal grille and sports a new pair of projector headlamps.

Inside, the XLT features a 4.2-inch display and comes equipped with SYNC, while the WildTrak gets an 8.0-inch colour touchscreen and SYNC 2, MyKey and a three-pin 230-Volt power socket.

Both XL and XLT variants will feature a 2.2-litre four-cylinder 158PS / 385Nm turbocharged Duratorq TDCi diesel engine, while the Wildtrak uses a 3.2-litre five-cylinder 197bhp / 470Nm turbocharged turbocharged Duratorq TDCi diesel engine instead.

Regardless of engine choice, a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission are available.

In terms of capabilities, Ford has given the Ranger a 28-degree approach angle, 25-degree departure angle, 230mm ground clearance and the capability to wade into 800mm of water.

In addition, it also has a towing capability of up to 3.5 tonnes and can take on a payload of up to 1.2 tonnes.

The Ranger uses an electronically controlled transfer case, which allows drivers to shift from 4x2 to 4x4 High mode on the fly via a knob on the centre console, as well as an electronic locking rear differential when in 4x4 Low to help improve traction in difficult conditions.

Furthermore, the suspension has been fine-tuned for improved comfort and handling, and to take advantage of that an electric power-assisted steering (EPAS) system has been included.

For safety, electronic stability control (ESC), ISOFIX, hill launch assist, adaptive load control and emergency brake assist have been included as standard for all variants.

The WildTrak has four more airbags for a total of six airbags over the XL and XLT, and adds front and rear parking sensors; front and rear park assist; a rear-view camera; forward alert; radar-equipped adaptive cruise control; lane keeping aid and lane departure warning.

The Ranger is available in six colours of Pride Orange, Cool White, Metropolitan Grey, Aluminum Metallic, Black Mica, and Aurora Blue.

From now till Oct 11, Ford is inviting the public to experience the capabilities of the new Ford Ranger for free at the ‘Tough Done Smarter Experiential Test Drive’ at the outdoor area of Central Park Avenue of the 1Utama Shopping Centre.

Each visitor will be paired with a professional driver, who will lead them through an exciting course that simulates tough driving environments, like wading through water and navigating steep terrain.

A variety of the new Ranger’s features will also be demonstrated, including driver assist technologies such as the electronic-locking rear differential, hill launch assist, hill descent control, and forward collision warning, as well as Ford’s SYNC 2 connectivity system.

“True to our ‘Built Ford Tough’ heritage, the new Ranger offers more power and payload capacity than any other pickup in Malaysia. It’s also the only pickup to feature a range of new safe and smart technologies, and raises the level of refinement in the segment,” said Ford Motor Company Malaysia and Asia Pacific (Emerging Markets) managing director David Westerman.

Ford WildTrak 3.2Ford Ranger XLT 2.2


Auto parts maker Magna sees initial hit from Canadian bridge blockade

                TORONTO: Auto parts maker Magna International Inc (MG.TO) said on Friday disruptions at the Ambassador bridge caused by Canadian trucker protests against coronavirus mandates have started to have some initial impact on its operations.

The protesters, who have caused a gridlock in the Canadian capital since late January, have since Monday used their big rigs to snarl traffic at the bridge, which serves as a supply route for Detroit's carmakers.

The situation at the bridge has forced some customers to idle or cut production requirements, Magna chief executive officer Swamy Kotagiri said on an earnings call.

"If the gridlock lasts for longer, it could affect big Canadian suppliers such as Magna and Linamar Corp and it might affect Magna's bottom-line numbers in the (current) quarter," said Sam Fiorani, vice president at AutoForecast Solutions LLC.

Toyota Motor Corp, General Motors Co, Ford and Chrysler-parent Stellantis have said they have been forced to cancel or scale back some production due to the protests.

The protests have piled more pressure on a North American auto industry wrestling with a fragile supply chain and a global chip shortage that has wreaked havoc with production since the outbreak of the pandemic.

In terms of headwinds, expect continued semiconductor supply constraints to impact production in 2022, CEO Kotagiri said on the call.

However, the company expects semiconductor availability to affect production more significantly in the first half of the year.

The Ontario-based company estimated full-year revenue of US$38.8 billion to US$40.4 billion, compared with the US$36.24 billion it reported for 2021.

Analysts on average were expecting US$39.47 billion, according to Refinitiv IBES data.


Spain's Menorca gets green light to limit cars

                MADRID: The regional parliament of Spain's Balearic Islands approved last Wednesday a law that allows the holiday island of Menorca to limit the number of cars that can visit.

The text passed by the assembly grants the government of the tiny Mediterranean isle the power to limit the entry of "all types of motor vehicles" to prevent it from becoming choked by fumes and overrun during summer months.

It also allows Menorca to set a "maximum ceiling" for the number of vehicles that can circulate on the island's roads during a "defined period".

Menorca, one of the most popular destinations for British holidaymakers in Spain, has so far not specified what limit it might set on the number of cars allowed.

During the peak summer season tens of thousands of cars arrive on ferries from mainland Spain or the neighbouring island of Mallorca.

"This is a historical milestone for Menorca," the head of the island's government, Susana Mora, said in a statement. "It is a tool that should help us boost our sustainability policies."

Protecting the environment and keeping tourism at sustainable levels have long been priorities for Menorca, which has been a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve since 1993 and is home to around 100,000 people.

The easternmost of the Balearic Islands, it remains distinctly rural with rolling fields, wooded ravines and humpy hills punctuated by dozens of pristine beaches.


Nio, Mobileye partner on self-driving consumer passenger cars in China

Shashua said the deal with Nio would improve mapping to support autonomous driving.
NEW YORK: Chinese electric car startup Nio Inc and Intel Corp’s self-driving car technology firm Mobileye on Tuesday said they would partner to develop autonomous vehicles for the consumer market in China and eventually other countries.

Under the agreement, Nio will manufacture and produce at mass scale a self-driving system designed by Mobileye, which will be integrated into Nio’s electric-vehicle consumer lines, as well as Mobileye’s driverless ride-hailing services.

The self-driving kit provided by Israel-based Mobileye includes the vision processing chip, camera, radar and lidar sensors, as well as safety and mapping software.

Nio will also develop a version of self-driving electric vehicles that Mobileye will deploy as robotaxis for ride-hailing services in global markets.

No financial details of the partnership were disclosed.

The companies plan an initial release in China beginning in 2022, Mobileye president and chief executive officer Amnon Shashua said in an interview on Monday.

“The deal with Nio will also enable us to harvest data in compliance with Chinese regulations and improve mapping to support autonomous driving,” Shashua said.

The Mobileye CEO added that a rollout in China was more efficient as the regulatory environment was centralized and the Chinese government was working on standardizing Mobileye’s safety model for self-driving cars into law.

Manufacturers and suppliers are increasingly skeptical about the speed of adoption of fully automated self-driving systems, because of their high cost, complexity, and regulatory hurdles.

In the meantime, they have begun focusing on deploying more advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), which share components, but cost much less and can generate much-needed revenue to help defray the cost of developing full self-driving systems.

Mobileye on Tuesday said it powers ADAS in car models of more than 27 automakers.

Loss-making and cash-burning Nio is the most prominent among dozens of Chinese electric-vehicle startups vying to become the next Tesla Inc. All are hampered by dwindling demand in the world’s largest car market, reduced government subsidies for EVs and nagging concerns over the China-U.S. trade war.

Nio on Tuesday said the partnership with Mobileye aligned with its mission to provide premium, smart electric cars and allowed it to maintain an edge over electric vehicle competitors.


Touch 'N Go to launch new version of card with NFC capability

                KUALA LUMPUR: Touch ‘n Go (TnG) will be launching a new version of its card that has the capabilities of tapping into a Near Field Communication (NFC) technology in the next few weeks.

TNG Digital Sdn Bhd chief executive officer Ignatius Ong said the new card will allow users to easily top up their balance using a NFC-enabled port via the TnG eWallet application.

"The Touch ‘n Go card that we have in circulation for the last 20 years does not have the capability to directly top up your cards from the eWallet because you need a specific card reader to actually do the transactions for security reasons,” Ong said during a panel discussion on the second day of MyFintech Week 2022 today.

At the same panel discussion, Payments Network Malaysia (PayNet) retail payments director Khairuan Abdul Rahman noted that towards the fourth quarter of 2021, e-commerce transactions dropped slightly as the economic sector reopened and more businesses started to operate physically.

He said the digitalisation of commerce and payment industry went into overdrive in the past two years as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic with customers opting for alternative payment methods.

"We saw more than 100 per cent growth in Financial Process Exchange (FPX), one of the platforms to facilitate e-commerce transactions operated by PayNet in 2020, and more than 70 per cent growth in 2021.

"As more businesses open their doors for face-to-face transactions, I hope that this does not mean that we gravitate fully back to cash transactions or limited digital payment systems," he said.

Khairuan further explained that consumers' behaviour is shifting drastically and whether they will move back to cash transactions post-pandemic is still unclear.

He said PayNet needs to observe the situation "for a couple of months” to come to a conclusion, only then will the company be able to recommend how it needs to maintain e-commerce transactions as a primary form of payments.


Kia puts whopping 21 displays on EV concept dash

                FRANKFURT: Last week, Kia teased us with an obscure image of a new EV concept from the front; on Wednesday, they offered a limited peek at its interior for the first time, and turns out, the company is using this model to poke a bit of fun at the auto industry's current obsession with in-car displays.

While concept models are usually designed to represent the future of a company, their products, and their respective industries, Kia is using its latest EV concept for all of that as well as to make a parody of the multiplying digital displays in modern vehicles.

In fact, the latest teaser of Kia's presently unnamed electric concept added 21 HD resolution displays artistically across the dash as a "humorous riposte to the industry's current obsession with ever increasing dashboard screens."

Apart from the wave of illuminated displays, the rest of the silver and gray finished cabin looks fairly simple and contemporarily minimalistic.

A second teaser photo gives us another view of the headlights, this time from the side. We also see the left side of the front bumper, as well as small fractions of the fender and a huge front wheel, all shiny and gray.

What we still don't have any pictures of yet is the sheet of glass that spans across the top of the car functioning both as the windshield and roof until it "taper[s] into a double-bubble over the rear passenger compartment."

Maybe Kia will release another teaser before March 5, when the whole vehicle inside and out will be unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show.


'Ford v Ferrari' actors say race car drivers a special breed

Bale (left) and Damon posing at the Toronto film festival on Sept 9. — Reuters
TORONTO: Actors Christian Bale and Matt Damon say they have a newfound respect for racecar drivers after making “Ford v Ferrari”, based on the true story of the battle between the car makers at the 1966 Le Mans.

The movie, shown at the Toronto Film Festival on Monday, chronicles Ford Motor Co’s bid to build a race car to beat Ferrari at Le Mans, a race it dominated for years.

Furious at being rebuffed in his attempts to buy Ferrari - and its racecar design - from creator Enzo Ferrari, Henry Ford II decides to build his own car and hires American engineer Carroll Shelby (Damon).

The team signs British racer Ken Miles (Bale) to drive the Ford GT40, and in just 90 days the two companies are facing off in Le Mans, the oldest and most challenging endurance auto race.

“The brakes were the weakest part of the car back then,” Damon told Reuters Television on the red carpet.

“So what these guys were doing is nuts, going 230mph (370kph) and not knowing whether or not you could stop the car. It’s a kind of a special breed of person to do that,” he added.

Bale said his enthusiasm behind the wheel “completely outweighed my skill.”

“(I) got to go and be on the track with some of the best racers in the world,” he said. “But (I) would never dare to assume that I could compete with these absolute gods of racing that we had on set.”

The movie goes beyond the drive for speed to look at the conflicting personalities of Miles and Shelby, as well as the clashes brought on by corporate interference in the project.

“In many ways, I think we tried to make a movie that speaks to people who might not even be into racing,” said director James Mangold.

“Ford v Ferrari” will be released in US movie theatres on Nov 15.

Reporting by Robert Mezan; Writing by Moira Warburton; editing by Darren Schuettler

Our Standards:The Thomson Reuters Trust Principles.


Malaysian F1 Grand Prix’s new trophy unveiled

                KUALA LUMPUR: The new trophy for the 2015 Petronas Malaysian Formula One Grand Prix in Sepang from March 27-29 was unveiled last night.

The trophy has a red pewter nestled within its fold expressing the passion of the drivers jostling for the winning position on the circuit.

Tan Sri Mokhzani Tun Mahathir, the chairman of the Sepang International Circuit (SIC), said he was fascinated and impressed with the new trophy.

“It is the eighth trophy designed for the event by the Royal Selangor Pewter since the Malaysian Formula One Grand Prix was inaugurated in 1999,” said Mokhzani.

“After 17 years, we firmly believe that many Malaysians look forward to the race. We are expecting more than 120,000 fans to turn up to watch the three-day event under the theme ‘Experience F1 Like Never Before’,” added Mokhzani.

He said this year’s race day will begin early at 3pm to avoid the rain in the late afternoon.

“We hope more women and children will watch the race as we have lined-up a series of exciting and entertaining activities. We will invite American rock singer and songwriter Lenny Kravitz to entertain the spectators.

“We will also have a charity gala on the evening of March 26 at the Plenary Hall KL Convention Centre to raise funds for charity Bidara,” said Mokhzani.


India's top bikemaker Hero launches e-scooter to chase startups

                NEW DELHI: India's Hero MotoCorp, the world's biggest motorcycle maker by sales, launched its first electric scooter worldwide last Friday as it looks to catch up with newer businesses that have taken the lead in the shift to cleaner transport.

Like some other legacy automakers in India, Hero has been a laggard in launching electric two-wheelers, giving startups such as Ather Energy, which is backed by Tiger Global, and Softbank Group-backed Ola Electric a first-mover advantage.

"While it may have been our wish to launch this product earlier than we have, we had to get it absolutely right for the greater good of everyone," Chairman Pawan Munjal told reporters at the launch event in Jaipur.

India wants e-scooters and e-bikes to make up 80% of total two-wheeler sales by 2030, from about 2% today.

While sales are accelerating as people move away from gasoline scooters in the face of rising fuel prices, a recent spate of electric scooters catching fire have raised concerns over safety, jeopardising consumer confidence.

There are concerns this could derail growth of a sector that is key to the country's carbon reduction goals.

Prices for Hero's debut model, Vida Plus, will start at 145,000 rupees (RM8,183) — higher than most electric scooters in India — and it will have a minimum range of 143km on a single charge, similar to Ather.

The company has made a string of investments in electric vehicle startups. In September, Hero said it would invest US$60 million in California-based Zero Motorcycles to jointly develop electric motorcycles.

In January, it announced an investment of more than US$56 million in Ather and in 2021 it partnered with Taiwan's Gogoro for its battery sharing infrastructure.

Hero started taking bookings today and deliveries will begin in December.


Thieves steal RM2mil worth of luxury cars

                KUALA LUMPUR: A gang of thieves stealthily climbed over a fence at a workshop near Salak South here and made off with RM2mil in luxury vehicles, including a Bentley and a Porsche.

City CID chief Senior Asst Comm Zainuddin Ahmad said the theft occured at around 9.15am on Sunday at the workshop along Jalan Empat, off Jalan Chan Sow Lin.

“The stolen cars are a Bentley Continental Supersport, Range Rover Evoque, Audi A5, Toyota Vellfire and Porsche,” he said yesterday.

“Based on the CCTV footage, more than five suspects are believed to be involved in the theft,” he added.

The suspects, he said, apparently climbed over the fence and pried open a drawer to steal the keys to the cars.

“They then drove off in the cars, exiting by the front gate,” SAC Zainuddin said.

He urged anyone with information to contact 03-2115 9999 or visit the nearest police station.


Aug 8-14: Fuel prices down across the board

                PETALING JAYA: Fuel prices will be taking a dip across the board this week with RON95 and RON97 prices reduced by 5 sen from RM1.68 to RM1.63 and from RM1.98 to RM1.93/litre respectively.

The price of diesel has also taken a 4 sen dip from RM1.83/litre to RM1.79/litre according to the Finance Ministry today.

The new prices will take effect at midnight on Aug 8 and will last until Aug 14.


Beetle and Golf at VW roadshow

                KUALA LUMPUR: Volkswagen Group Malaysia is showcasing the Beetle and Golf at the Pavilion and Fahrenheit shopping centres in conjunction with Volkswagen’s inaugural partnership with Kuala Lumpur Fashion Week.

There will be a sneak preview of the limited edition Beetle Club displayed at the entrance of Pavilion throughout the course of KL Fashion Week.

Volkswagen’s roadshow will continue at Sunway Putra and Empire Subang.

Fans of the brand will be able to learn more about the latest financing campaign and other promotions. For every day of the roadshow, one winner will be able to drive home with a RM200 petrol voucher by participating in a simple Instagram contest.

This month also sees the return of Volkswagen’s sales carnival, which is being held at IOI City Mall from Aug 5 to Aug 9.


Shell Malaysia adds more local products into Select store offerings

                KUALA LUMPUR: Shell Malaysia has expanded its Select store offerings to include products from 29 selected entrepreneurs of "Realisasi Impianmu Bersama Shell" programme, alongside essential groceries.

As the country continues to navigate in the new normal, Shell continues to find solutions to help the community where it operates.

This includes evolving Shell stations into a one-stop, safe environment for customers to fuel up and purchase groceries at competitive prices while uplifting the local Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs).

Shell general manager Mobility, Malaysia & Singapore Seow Lee Ming said the company has 29 local partners selected through the programme that are supplying their products to Shell Select stores, among which include newly appointed Shell Private Label local partners.

"This, ‘for Malaysians by Malaysians’ effort exemplifies our commitment to meet the daily needs of our community, which combine local SMEs' innovative offerings and our extended essential groceries of quality and variety."

"As a convenient place to refuel and purchase essential groceries, we assure Malaysians that their well-being is our number one priority.

"We strive to provide a safe and comfortable environment at our stations with strict SOPs while continuously improving our products and services in line with our commitment to make life's journey better. Kita jaga kita,” Seow saidd.

Shell Select shelves in Malaysia are now stocked with a wider selection of snacks, confectionaries, non-alcoholic drinks, and ready-to-eat meals from the local SMEs, including Joe Flizzow x deli2go’s gourmet chicken burger, murtabak ayam with lava cheese, murtabak kambing and locally sourced pineapple juice.

In addition, customers can also find essential groceries such as flour, sugar, cooking oil, biscuits, sauces, sardines, noodles, coconut milk, and various beverages.

In the spirit of Merdeka Day and Malaysia Day celebrations, customers can enjoy special promotions at selected Shell stations from Aug 16 to Sept 30.

Shell said it has always opened its doors to local SMEs and provided them with an avenue to promote their products at Shell Select stores.

‘Realisasi Impianmu Bersama Shell’ is designed to give Malaysian entrepreneurs an extra boost and the opportunity to scale up their businesses.

In the month of October this year, Shell Malaysia will be participating in the Ministry of Domestic Trade, and Consumer Affairs (KPDNHEP)'s Kempen Beli Barangan Malaysia to continue to help raise the economic prosperity of SMEs in Malaysia.

For more updates and information, visit www.shell.com.my.


Johor leads move to nab traffic offenders using Automated Number Plate Recognition device

                JOHOR BARU: Johor will be the first to use the Automated Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) device to nab vehicle owners with outstanding traffic summonses and warrants.

Johor Baru South OCPD Asst Comm Sulaiman Salleh said the device would be installed at the Causeway by next week and the offenders would be stopped at the checkpoint here.

He said JBS has already received three of the devices, one of which would be permanently set up at the Sultan Iskandar Customs, Immigration and Quarantine (CIQ) complex here.

“The other two portable devices will be used during special operations,” he told reporters during an Ops Saman operation here yesterday.

The first offender to be caught by the device was a man driving a scrapped car with a fake registration number. It was detected during the operations yesterday.

ACP Sulaiman said the camera on the devices would be linked to tablets with a database of traffic offenders.

The device would alert officers if any vehicle passing by was on the database.

“The use of ANPR devices, which will be used on both foreign and locally registered vehicles, will be introduced to other police districts and installed at checkpoints nationwide by early June.

“The system is linked to the police crime department and the Road Transport Department (JPJ) records, making it easier for us to detect stolen or unregistered vehicles or those belonging to persons of interest to the police,” he added.

ACP Sulaiman said issuing summonses could also be done with just a few clicks using the new Mobile Compound Online Payments System (MCOPS) gadget.

“The MCOPS device is similar to a mini printer that can be hung at the side like a sling bag and with a special mobile application, officers would just have to insert the offenders’ particulars to issue the summon.

“Not only does it save time but the device can also print a picture of the vehicle as proof of an offence,” he said, adding that offenders would be advised to settle their dues as soon as possible.


2016 Paris Motor Show: Porsche Panamera plug-in hybrid in world debut

                PARIS: With all versions of the Panamera in place at the 2016 Paris Motor Show, it was clear the four-seater family sports sedan was the highlight at the Porsche stand.

Porsche picked Paris to mark the world premiere of the hybrid version of the Panamera. Another global debut from Porsche was the 911 GT3 Cup. Also sharing space on the sidelines was the Macan Turbo with Performance Package, 718 Cayman S, 911 Targa 4S Exclusive Design Edition and Cayenne S E-Hybrid.

Despite predictions that the wagon or Sport Turismo version of the Panamera would show up in Paris, it didn’t, although spy shots of the new bodystyle has been circulating around for some time now.

READ MORE: Porsche expands Panamera variants to 10 - Update
It all began in Berlin

The second-generation Panamera was unveiled in Berlin in late June. At the time, only the Turbo, 4S Diesel and 4S were reeled out.

Since its introduction in 2009, more than 150,000 units of the Panamera have been sold worldwide. The second generation is a completely redeveloped car – with new engines, a new design and new technologies. It’s bigger in every sense and has a longer wheelbase than the first generation model. Also new is that Porsche is producing it entirely at its Leipzig plant, alongside the Macan.

The rear of the first generation Panamera had been denounced by critics as ugly, and it has been reshaped for a sportier look that is reminiscent of the 911 tail.

 The hybrid Panamera (white) shares the limelight with the Turbo, the most powerful variant.

The new twin-turbo engines of the Panamera are more powerful, and thanks to the new eight-speed dual-clutch transmission (PDK II) they are up to 16% more fuel-efficient. This transmission replaces the eight-speed automatic torque converter transmission on the predecessor model.

All versions get all-wheel drive. The Panamera will launch in November with three different engines: as the 550hp Turbo, the 440hp 4S and the 422hp 4S Diesel. The 462hp plug-in hybrid will be available only from April 2017.

For an even larger spread between comfort and sportiness, the Panamera now has such features as a new three-chamber air suspension, rear axle steering and the new electronic 4D Chassis Control chassis management system. Many new assistance systems also enhance ride comfort as well as safety.

Porsche Advanced Cockpit

Porsche is also introducing a future-oriented display and control concept. The new Porsche Advanced Cockpit with its smartphone-like user interfaces and configurable LED screens impresses with its intuitive functionality.

Two seven-inch screens either side of the analogue rev counter form the interactive cockpit, and, in contrast to the other versions in the model line, the E-Hybrid features a power meter tailored to hybrid operation. The hybrid-specific displays works in a similar way to that used in the 918 Spyder super sportscar. The power meter provides data such as the amount of electrical energy currently being used as well as that recovered through recuperation.

A 12.3-inch touchscreen functions as a central PCM control and display unit. The driver can access various items of hybrid-specific information both here on the dash and in the instrument cluster. The boost assistant and hybrid assistant are both practical and informative. The boost assistant display shows the energy available for boosting, while the hybrid assistant provides various visual signals for regulating the electrical drive power.

918 Spyder strategy

The latest Panamera features a hybrid strategy based on the 918 Spyder. If you recall, the 887hp 918 Spyder is the fastest series-produced vehicle ever to circumnavigate the Nürburgring Nordschleife. Its record lap time of 6:57 minutes can in part be attributed to the additional power provided by two electric motors.

As with the 918 Spyder, the power of the Panamera electric motor – 136hp and 400Nm torque – is made available as soon as the driver touches the accelerator.

On the predecessor model, the pedal needed to be pressed at least 80% of the way down to unleash the additional power of the electric drive. Now, the electric motor and petrol engine interact in a more responsive manner.

Like with the 918 Spyder, the electric motor is available to deliver additional power at any time. This, together with the performance characteristics of the new 2.9-litre V6 biturbo engine (330 hp/450Nm), generates an impressive boost. The electrical energy is also used to increase the car’s top speed.

EV range of 50km

The 462hp plug-in hybrid always starts in electric mode and has a range of 50km and a top speed of 140kph. The all-wheel Porsche achieves a top speed of 278kph and delivers a system torque of 700Nm from standstill. The four-door hybrid sports car breaks the 100kph barrier in just 4.6 seconds. The torque is transferred to all four wheels and the standard three-chamber air suspension ensures an optimum balance between comfort and performance.

Together with the V6 petrol engine decoupler, the electric motor heralds the new generation of the Porsche hybrid module. In contrast to the electro-hydraulic system of the predecessor model, the decoupler on the new Panamera is actuated electro-mechanically by an electric clutch actuator (ECA), resulting in even shorter response times.

Bigger capacity battery

The electric motor is supplied with power via a liquid-cooled lithium-ion battery. And despite the fact that the energy content of the battery (which is integrated under the luggage compartment floor) has been increased from 9.4 to 14.1 kWh, its weight has remained the same. The high-voltage battery takes 5.8 hours to fully charge via a 230-V, 10-A connection. If the driver chooses to use the optional 7.2 kW on-board charger and a 230-V, 32-A connection instead of the standard 3.6-kW charger on the Panamera, the battery fully charges in just 3.6 hours.

 Blume introducing the hybrid Panamera on Sept 29 at the Paris Motor Show.

The charging process can also be started using a timer via Porsche Communication Management (PCM) or the Porsche Car Connect app (for smartphones and Apple Watch). Moreover, the E-Hybrid is fitted as standard with auxiliary air conditioning to cool or heat the passenger compartment during charging.

The Sport Chrono Package including the mode switch integrated into the steering wheel forms part of the standard equipment on the Panamera 4 E-Hybrid. The mode switch and Porsche Communication Management are used to activate the various driving modes. These modes include the familiar “Sport” and “Sport Plus” modes from the other Panamera models equipped with the Sport Chrono Package. The hybrid-specific modes are “E-Power”, “Hybrid Auto”, “E-Hold” and “E-Charge”.

Mix and match with Hybrid Auto

The “Hybrid Auto” mode is new and unique to the hybrid. When selected, the Panamera changes and combines the drive sources automatically for optimised efficiency. The “E-Hold” mode allows drivers to consciously conserve the current state of charge to enable them to switch to electric and therefore zero-emissions mode in an environmental zone at their destination, for example. In “E-Charge” mode, the battery is charged by the V6 engine; to achieve this, the petrol engine generates a higher level of power than is actually needed for driving.

The highest level of drive performance is made available in the “Sport” and “Sport Plus” modes. The V6 biturbo engine is active continuously in these modes. In “Sport” mode, the battery charge is always maintained at a minimum level to ensure there are sufficient e-boost reserve capacities when needed. “Sport Plus” mode is all about maximum performance and allows the Panamera to reach its top speed of 278kph. This mode also recharges the battery as quickly as possible with the help of the engine.

Porsche Connect

And finally, the new Porsche Communication Management (PCM 4.1) offers a new range of connectivity by its intelligent digital functions and online services. Porsche Connect is being introduced in all versions. It extends existing vehicle functions by adding digital services and apps such as those used for remote control of certain vehicle functions by smartphone – and others to more efficiently use one’s time during the drive.

“The new Panamera marks a revolution in design and technology. It truly is a luxury saloon. Nevertheless, the model still retains the identity of the 911 and the genes of the 918 Spyder super sportscar and 919 Hybrid racing car,” said Porsche AG executive chairman Oliver Blume.


March 18-24: RON97 petrol up seven sen while RON95 and diesel remain unchanged

                PETALING JAYA: The price of RON97 petrol will increase by seven sen from March 18 to 24, said the Finance Ministry.

The retail price for RON97 petrol will increase from RM2.40 to RM2.47 per litre.

The price of RON95 petrol and diesel remain unchanged at RM2.05 and RM2.15 per litre, respectively.

The ministry also said that to protect consumers from global oil price increases, the government would maintain its ceiling price of RON95 petrol at RM2.05 per litre and diesel at RM2.15 per litre despite increases in market prices.

"The government will continue to monitor the trends of global crude oil prices and take appropriate measures to ensure the continued welfare and well-being of the people," the ministry said in a statement.

The weekly fuel pricing mechanism was reintroduced on Jan 5, 2019, under the Automatic Pricing Mechanism (APM).


Next McLaren supercar to debut next month

                LONDON: McLaren has released teasers of what we can safely assume is the convertible version of the McLaren 720S Spider, which is to be unveiled Dec 8 - who needs warm weather to ride a drop-top anyway?

From the single image and 13-second video that the company shared Wednesday of what looks to be a convertible derivative of the McLaren 720S Spider, we can see pretty much see the entire exterior and get a taste of the interior. Despite the specs not being announced yet, we're reasonably confident that this car will have impressive power - it is a supercar, after all.

If the model is anything like its fixed-roof counterpart, the car may be powered by a 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 engine capable of 710hp and 772Nm of torque.

From the short press release announcing the debut, we know that this car is the second one to be released under McLaren's Track25 business plan, a project to convert the company's entire lineup to hybrid models by 2025.

McLaren is planning on releasing 18 new models to accomplish this; the Speedtail, revealed in late October, was the first, and this will be the second.

The car will be officially unveiled on Dec 8.