Ferdinand Piech to lose board seat at Porsche SE, says weekly

File pic of Winterkorn (centre) and Ferdinand Piech at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show. — Reuters
STUTTGART: Former Volkswagen chairman Ferdinand Piech is set to lose his board seat at Porsche SE, in which Germany's billionaire families Porsche and Piech have pooled their holding in Europe's largest carmaker, a German weekly reported.

Porsche SE's shareholders will vote on the future composition of the holding company's supervisory board at the annual meeting on May 30. A final list of candidates has to be decided on by mid-April.

While Wolfgang Porsche and Ferdinand Piech's brother Hans Michel Piech are on the list of candidates, Ferdinand Piech is not, Bild am Sonntag reported citing a person close to the matter.

A spokesman for Porsche SE, which holds 52 percent of Volkswagen's voting rights, said that the future composition of the board has not yet been decided.

Ferdinand Piech was not immediately available. He resigned as Volkswagen chairman after a showdown with former Volkswagen chief executive Martin Winterkorn in April 2015.

Last month, Volkswagen signaled it could take legal action against Piech after a media report said he had informed top directors about potential cheating of diesel emission tests six months before the scandal became public.


Proton banks on new models for growth

                SHAH ALAM: Proton Holdings Bhd is hoping that the launch of new models such as the Perdana will help it achieve sales of 150,000 units this year.

“With the new Perdana and new models planned, we hope to achieve this target,” said chief executive officer Datuk Abdul Harith Abdullah at a media briefing yesterday. “We’re not aiming high. Our goals are realistic,” he said.

Projected sales of 150,000 units for Proton means the company will have a market share of 20% of total vehicle sales in the country. It will also be a jump of almost 47% compared to the sales last year where Proton sold 102,175 units with only 15% of market share.

In 2014, Proton’s sales was 115,783 and it had 17% of the market share.

Abdul Harith said Proton wanted to “right the mistakes” it had made in the past and remove the negative perception that the public had on the national car company.

“It’s not easy to admit our mistakes. But there is a strong need to rebrand and reposition ourselves.”

Proton also held a private viewing of the new Perdana, which chairman Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad promised “will be a better car” than the Honda Accord platform that the vehicle is based on.

“It’s not going to be another patched-up front and back car,” he said, citing that the company had undertaken stringent quality control procedures on the new Perdana.

“When we launched the Preve (in 2012), it was launched before proper testing but we don’t do that anymore.”

Dr Mahathir added that the new Perdana had a development cost of RM200mil because it was based on an existing model’s platform. He said the cost of the vehicle would be a lot higher if it is based on a new platform (from the ground up).

“What we introduce will be based on a proper platform and still be relevant. If we were selling one million vehicles a year, then we can have our own platform.

“We try to keep within our means. We don’t have deep pockets because we’re competing with foreign makes. We are now selling fewer cars with narrower margins.”

According to the Malaysian Automotive Association (MAA), vehicle sales last year was dominated by Perodua, which sold 213,307 units. The company had a commanding market share of 32%.

Honda was the top non-national brand with a market share of 14.2% or 94,902 units. Toyota was a close second with 14.1% or 93,760 units (of which 65,295 were passenger vehicles and the remaining 28,465 commercial vehicles).

This was followed by Nissan with 7.1% or 47,235 vehicles, of which 41,941 were passenger vehicles and the remainder 5,294 commercial vehicles.

The automotive industry has been growing for six consecutive years since 2010, peaking at a new all-time high of 666,674 units last year.

However, due to subdued consumer sentiment, a sluggish economy, the weaker ringgit and tighter lending requirements, the MAA has forecast total industry volume to drop by 2.5% to 650,000 units in 2016 against last year.


Volvo Cars to explore use of fossil-fuel free steel

                STOCKHOLM: Swedish steelmaker SSAB AB is teaming up with Volvo Cars to develop fossil-free steel for use in the automotive industry.

Volvo Cars will be the first carmaker to secure the greener steel, SSAB said in a statement today. Volvo Cars will use the material for testing and possibly in a concept car, it said.

For the automaker, the project is about cutting carbon emissions to supply an increasing number of consumers looking for a car that's as sustainable as possible, said Kerstin Enochsson, global head of procurement.

The steel is made from hydrogen-reduced iron from a pilot plant in Lulea, Sweden.

The Hybrit project, run by SSAB with iron ore producer LKAB and utility Vattenfall, seeks to remove fossil fuels from the highly polluting steel-making value chain by replacing coking coal with hydrogen and clean energy.

Commercial-scale production is set to start in 2026.

SSAB has already announced a similar collaboration with Volvo AB, a maker of trucks.

It will now focus on existing strategic partnerships, chief executive officer Martin Lindqvist said by phone.

"It's possible that there's room for one or two more, but not much more."

"Right now the supply is limited, but we see that an increased demand will come, and with this comes an increased supply" of green steel, Enochsson at Volvo Cars said in an interview.

Steel is "an important piece of the puzzle" to help meet sustainability goals, she said. "We have to show that it's possible."


McLaren merges bespoke and motorsport operations

                LONDON: McLaren Special Operations (MSO), McLaren's bespoke division, has merged with McLaren Motorsport under one management structure, headed by its new managing director, Ansar Ali.

The new single department MSO and Motorsport will combine the creation and marketing of McLaren’s rarest vehicles together with growing the MSO Defined portfolio aimed at series production cars.
 Ansar Ali.
In a further change, the new department will report to Jolyon Nash, executive director – Global Sales & Marketing. The integration of MSO into the Sales & Marketing department brings McLaren’s bespoke division even closer to retailers and customers and also brings all the revenue generating areas of the company together.

Ansar Ali joined McLaren Automotive in March as motorsports director, tasked with developing the motorsport function. He was previously with Zenos Cars and the Caterham Group. Since his arrival, McLaren has launched the 570S GT4 and 570S Sprint models. By adding MSO to his motorsport portfolio, and by integrating the function within sales & marketing, the team is expected to develop offerings that better suit McLaren customers and retailers.

 The 570S GT4.


Shortage of payment cards irks travellers at causeway

                JOHOR BARU: Crossing the borders is getting to be a touch-and-go affair for Singaporeans – they don’t know how much extra they will have to pay.

Since the border reopened, Touch ’n Go cards are becoming hard to find and touts are now at the cashless toll plaza at the Bangunan Sultan Iskandar (BSI) Customs Immigration and Quarantine (CIQ) complex here.

The drivers have had to pay up to RM50 to “certain people” to tap and pay for them when they enter Malaysia. Many are now asking for a universal mode of payment at the two border crossings with Singapore, including via debit and credit cards.

At the moment, besides using a Touch ‘n Go card, Singaporeans can use their EZ-Link x Touch ’n Go motoring card at the two land borders. This a cashless card which can be used in Singapore and Malaysia.

However, this card is only sold at selected 7-Elevens or petrol stations in Singapore.

Singaporean businessman L. Manan, 64, was among those who had trouble paying for toll recently as his Touch ’n Go card had expired.

“The immigration officer directed me to a person near the toll area. When I approached the person to buy a new card, the person said they do not sell cards at the CIQ. But he was willing to ‘help’ with the toll for a fee,” he said.

The toll amount was about RM23 but he had to pay RM50 for the service. After leaving the CIQ, he drove around looking to buy a card but none were available.

Manan said he then had to get a card from his brother and has been using it to enter Johor weekly.

He said the problem could be avoided if people can buy the cards or make reloads at the CIQ.

Another Singaporean, who only wanted to be identified as Tan, said the family in the car ahead of him had asked to use his Touch ’n Go card as theirs had expired.

“With the border being reopened since April, there should be an adequate supply of such cards, especially around the CIQs.

“I also hope Touch ’n Go will allow for online top-ups, which are more convenient,” he said.

“The company should also have an office at both border crossings to sell cards and allow top-ups.”

Malaysian R. Mohana, a 43-year-old factory worker, said the shortage of cards had been a problem for weeks now.

“I found that my card had expired and asked my sister living in Johor Baru to help get a new one but she was unable to find a card,” said Mohana.

Malaysian engineer Nur Atiqah Muhd Fauzi, 27, who works in Singapore, also said he had been unable to buy a new Touch ’n Go card and was forced to use her identity card instead.

“I have been trying to get a card since May,” she said.

Checks by The Star at petrol stations and convenience stores around the Johor Baru CIQ and the Second Link showed that they had run out of Touch ‘n Go cards for some time now.

Stulang assemblyman Andrew Chen Kah Eng said he had received many complaints on the issue.

“As all our CIQs are cashless, we should allow people to use their debit cards or even credit cards to pay.

“This type of cashless payment has already been implemented at shopping malls around the city,” he said, adding that this issue had been raised several years ago, when he headed a task force to look into traffic congestion at the Johor CIQ.

“We should have a universal payment system,” he said.

He also said the authorities should work towards integrating Singapore’s EZ-Link smartcard system to allow for seamless travel between both countries.

A Touch ‘n Go customer careline employee, when contacted, said those who want to buy a card can do so via its website at www.touchngo.com.my/consumer/toll/card/buy-a-card/.


Honda Motor in deal with TSMC on chip supply

                TOKYO: Japan's Honda Motor Co said today it had struck a strategic collaboration agreement with Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co as part of efforts to secure a stable supply of semiconductors.

Japanese automakers have struggled to completely shake off the hit from tight global chip and parts supply during the pandemic, though constraints have eased.

Honda will build direct relationships with chip producers for the long-term stable supply of chips, chief executive Toshihiro Mibe said at a news conference where he gave an update about the automaker's business strategy.

"Honda will work closely together with Tier 1 suppliers and semiconductor makers and move forward with drastic steps," Mibe said, adding it had reached a basic agreement on strategic collaboration with TSMC.

"In the past, there were probably almost no direct discussions between automakers, including Honda, and semiconductor manufacturers," he said.

The company expected to start seeing an impact from the tie-up with TSMC from the 2025 financial year, chief operating officer Shinji Aoyama said.

The deal included sharing information about production and parts supply with a focus on securing integrated circuits and other parts, he said.

Honda also said it planned to release a mid- to large-size electric vehicle (EV) model in the United States in 2025 built with the company's new "electric and electronic" architecture platform.

It stuck to its aim of making EVs and fuel cells represent 100% of its vehicle sales by 2040, and said it planned to introduce four new EV models in Japan by 2026.

The company is considering boosting revenue from EVs by charging for software and digital services, Mibe said.

"I don't think things are as simple as they used to be where we can just increase the number of units to grow profits," said Mibe, without giving further details.


US jury convicts Nikola founder of fraud

File pic of Milton and the Nikola One. Milton's lawyer said his client would appeal the verdict. — Reuters

NEW YORK: Nikola Corp founder Trevor Milton on Friday was convicted by a US jury of fraud over allegations he lied to investors about the electric vehicle company's technology.

The jury found Milton guilty on one count of securities fraud and two counts of wire fraud after deliberating for around five hours. Milton was acquitted on an additional count of securities fraud.

During the trial in federal court in Manhattan, prosecutors depicted Milton, 40, as a "con man" who sought to deceive investors about the electric- and hydrogen-powered truck maker's technology starting in November 2019.

Milton, wearing a blue suit and green tie, shook his head as the jurors confirmed their verdict. His attorney said he will file court papers challenging the verdict.

Milton, of Oakley, Utah, was indicted in July 2021. He left Nikola in September 2020 after a report by short seller Hindenburg Research called the company a "fraud."

Prosecutors accused Milton of using social media and interviews on television, podcasts and in print to make false and misleading claims about Nikola's trucks and technology.

They said Milton's improper statements included that Nikola built an electric- and hydrogen-powered "Badger" pickup from the "ground up," developed batteries in-house that he knew it was buying elsewhere and had early success in creating a "Nikola One" semi-truck he knew did not work.

Milton made the statements about Nikola as it joined the mounting number of tech and EV companies going public through special purpose acquisition vehicles or SPACs.

He also was accused of defrauding the seller of a Utah ranch, who accepted Nikola stock options as part of the purchase price based on Milton's claims about the company.

The defence and the prosecution delivered closing arguments to the jury on Thursday in a trial that began on Sept 13.

The prosecution said Milton was obsessed with the company's stock price and made the statements to inflate it and his own net worth. The defence said prosecutors had distorted Milton's statements about Nikola's plans to shake up the automotive industry.

Nikola said in a statement after Milton's conviction that it was "pleased to close this chapter" and said it will continue to work towards creating value for shareholders.

The company agreed last year to pay US$125 million to settle with the US Securities and Exchange Commission's over its representations to investors.


China drivers check out electric cars as smog persists

                BEIJING: The heavy smog shrouding Beijing is proving to be a boon for China's nascent electric car market, with some dealers saying inquiries about all-electric models are up by almost a tenth.

Beijing issued a first pollution "red alert" on Monday, and set out measures to combat the hazardous smog, including limiting the use of conventional petrol-powered and hybrid cars to alternate days.

But all-electric vehicles are free to drive in the capital at any time. And that's prompted a rush of inquiries from would-be buyers, dealers and automakers say.

"I'm considering (an electric car) as the new policy means electric cars aren't limited from driving on heavy pollution days while other types are," said Wang Chao, 26, sizing up electric vehicles at a BYD Co Ltd  dealership on Wednesday.

Wang, who runs a Beijing food wholesale business, said the driving restrictions were yet another reason to think electric, noting the attraction also of government subsidies that would save him around 100,000 yuan (RM67,000) on a new electric model.

Those subsidies and other government measures have helped pure-electric car sales soar nearly five-fold to 113,810 nationwide in the first 10 months of the year, putting China on track to overtake the United States as the largest market for electric cars this year.

Automakers said it was too early to say if the increase in inquiries would translate into actual sales.

Worldwide electric cars sales are expected to increase to 600,000 this year,  China Association of Automobile Manufacturers deputy secretary-general Xu Yanhua told an industry conference.

A recent study by Carnegie Mellon University found that a shift to electric cars in China might cause more air pollution because of the nation's emissions-intensive electricity grid.

Coal is responsible for around 75 percent of power generation in China, though the government has said it would cut power sector emissions by 60 percent by 2020.


BMW M550d xDrive gets the most powerful diesel engine

                MUNICH: The BMW 5 Series gets another M Performance model, with the new M550d xDrive which is fitted with the most powerful diesel engine ever offered in a BMW 5 Series model.

The sedan will be available from July, and the tourer at end-2017.

The most powerful diesel engine in the segment is also the most powerful 6-cylinder diesel in any car worldwide.

The in-line engine has a capacity of 3.0 litres as well as modern M Performance TwinPower Turbo Technology with four turbochargers.

It has an output of 400hp at 4,400rpm and puts a maximum torque on stream of 760Nm from 2,000rpm.

Power transmission is via a standard 8-speed Steptronic sports transmission.

The intelligent all-wheel drive system BMW xDrive distributes the drive power to all four wheels.

The BMW M550d xDrive accelerates in 4.4 seconds from zero to 100 km/h, and its maximum speed is 250 km/h (electronically cut off).

Exterior highlights include the M aerodynamic package, the M sports suspension lowered by 10mm, the Integral Active Steering and the 19-inch M light alloy wheels with mixed tyres.

On the inside, you have the optional M sports seats with Dakota leather or fabric/Alcantara covers and an M sports leather steering.


Yokohama revives classic tyre production

                LONDON: Japanese tyre maker Yokohama is now stocking a range of hobby tyres, which are designed for the demands of classic cars and their owners.

Reviving some of the company’s heritage brands, Yokohama’s range incorporates modern technology and performance, yet retains the classic style and design from the 1960s and latter years.

“Tyre design and manufacturing techniques have evolved significantly over the last 50 years or so,” explains David Seward, managing director, Yokohama HPT Ltd. “With the launch of our hobby tyre range for classic cars, owners will be able to fit tyres that offer modern levels of performance, giving great comfort, grip and longevity. However, with classic styling the tyres will help owners retain that all-important period correct look.”

The first tyre in the new range, the G.T Special Y350, heralds back to 1967 when the original brand was launched and was the first within Yokohama’s range to feature radial tyre technology. Ideally suited for use on historic Japanese and European cars from the 1960s and 1970s, the tyre is now available in 14” and 15” sizes.

Originally fitted by the factory on the 911 Carrera Turbo (930), the Yokohama ADVAN A008P is the ideal fitment for some of the finest cars to come off the production lines in Stuttgart. The revived classic is now available with ‘N0’ marking in classic sizes, 245/45ZR16 and 205/55ZR16 for rear and front fitments.

Available in sizes from 10” to 15”, the legendary ADVAN HF Type-D 008 is the third classic tyre available in the Yokohama range designed to meet the requirements of modern classics from the 80s and 90s.

Meanwhile the final tyre now available in the range, is Yokohama’s classic A539 pattern which is available in sizes from 12” to 15” with popular fitments available to suit a wide range of classics.

To find out more about Yokohama’s entire range of tyres for both modern and classic cars, visit www.yokohama.co.uk.


Mercedes-Benz E 300 AMG Line: Upmarket update

                THE Mercedes-Benz E-Class has been the go-to model for many generations in Malaysia, and arguably the world over, who aspire to attain that status symbol.

With the E 300 (W213) in CKD-form, this is where fans and discerning customers of the German luxury carmaker will find the appeal of a somewhat sportier drive compared to the entry-level E 200 Avantgarde Line.

Priced at RM378,930 (without insurance and SST), its 2.0-litre turbocharged engine will provide a more effortless and sportier experience over the E 200 variant.

Here, the facade echoes this point through the inclusion of the AMG-line cladding that starts off with the most noticeable part of the vehicle - the front end.

The combination of the diamond grille and a more aggressively styled front bumper is accompanied and flanked by a pair of Multibeam LED headlights that properly illuminate the way forward.

Moving down its flanks, the larger 19-inch AMG twin penta-spoked wheels with an inner ring design adds a sense of departure from its elegant and curvaceous disposition.

Being dressed in Obsidian Black, the usual play of light and shadows gets muted here.

Towards the rear-end, there’s a nice amount of haunch before leading to the tailgate that’s now powered.

Other than that, there’s nothing that shouts “sporty” except for the chromed E 300 nomenclature.

Bringing everything together, the exterior becomes a nice blend of a sporty-yet-still elegant appearance and nothing seems out of place nor disproportionate.

What we still love about it though, is how well the arches are filled by the wheels that wear 245/40 (front) and 275/35 (rear) Goodyear Eagle F1 tyres - a definite step-up from the E 200’s Michelin-wrapped 18-inch wheels.

The interior is still a familiar one from the E 200, but what really stood out wasn’t just the sports pedals and additional use of open-pore Ashwood on the dashboard and door trimmings.

Rather, it’s the leather-wrapped flat-bottomed twin tri-spoked steering wheel with paddle shifters that brings with it a tender meaty feel during drives.

Additionally, there’s now a wireless charger available for the technologically inclined and some satin-finished aluminium speaker grilles of the Burmester sound system that will satiate the demands of audiophiles.

There are also the added white stitches for the door cards to help amp up that luxury feel along with the split moon roof and the added third climate controls (with B-pillar vents) to accentuate comfort levels for rear cabin occupants.

Space isn’t an issue with plenty of room and headroom while the 540-litre boot space will be more than enough.

Both E 200 and E 300 will feel competent, smooth and outright comfortable for a refined drive, but what really sets the two apart is their performance.

The E 300 will obviously outpace the E 200 with its 258hp (+61hp) and 370Nm (+50Nm) of torque that allows it to sprint from 0 to 100kph in just 6.2 (-1.2) seconds, but that’s just all on paper.

Out on the road, the feel is almost similar although the E 300 has a firmer ride.

In city traffic, both will feel effortless when taking off from a stand-still and cruising about on highways will have many properly satisfied with its refined drive that’s both compliant and well insulated against noise, vibration and harshness.

The larger wheels on the E 300 will be slightly more communicative due to the sportier and lower profile Goodyear F1 tyres. But the difference can be arguably deemed as marginal.

When carving up corners, E 300 will edge out a smirk from drivers with minimal body roll and the ability to provide a sharp steering experience, but this isn’t the main forte of an E Class that’s always been comfort-oriented.

The engine, along with its nine-speed automatic gearbox as standard, is tuned closer to the comfort spectrum of things as well and pairing provides for a smooth experience - regardless of the type of mode (Eco, Comfort, Sport and Individual) chosen within the Dynamic Select menu.

Braking performance, although lacking crossed drilled discs up front that were found in some of its predecessors, still possesses a good amount of bite to them - allowing owners to come to a full stop with confidence.

Other than the inclusion of a 360-degree birds-eye-view camera system in the E 300 over the E 200, it also comes with lane keep assist and adaptive cruise control to really accentuate that sense of convenience from its list of safety kit.

Both function well with a somewhat firm stance when the system wants to stay within a lane and it’ll require minimal grip levels from the hands to stay active.

To sum it up, the E 300’s performance is one that will provide drivers with a good blend of comfort, convenience, practicality, power and agility for the money.

But if performance is demanded, then perhaps the fully-imported 612hp Mercedes-AMG E 63 S 4Matic+ may be ideal at RM1.12mil.

Although the E 300 came draped in Obsidian Black, it will certainly mean that scratches, rock chips and the like will be rather noticeable from a distance.

Not to worry though, authorised Mercedes-Benz dealer Cycle & Carriage Bintang provides its customers with their newly introduced Paint and Dent Protector Program from March 1.

The programme is an optional extra that is provided exclusively by the company and is designed to help owners keep their vehicles looking spick and span with the use of Glasurit water-based paint that comes with a 10-year warranty for workmanship and defects.

For starters, it is offered to Mercedes-Benz vehicles that are less than eight months old and/or have clocked less than 7,500km.

The vehicle must meet a prerequisite inspection and is only applicable to standard metallic colours which do not include Designo metallic, pearl lustre or Magno paint colours.

With four packages available for choice, the entry-level 12-month package (RM888) provides owners with the ability to make four claims within the duration.

The 24-month package (RM1,888) provides owners with up to 8 claims, while the 36-month package (RM2,888) allows for 12 claims.

A range-topping 48-month package (RM3,888) provides up to 16 claims. — Jay WongSPECIFICATIONSEngine: 1,991cc, four-cylinder, turbocharged
Maximum power: 258hp from 5,500 to 6,100rpm
Maximum torque: 370Nm from 1,650 to 4,000rpm
Transmission: 9G-Tronic automatic
Acceleration (0-100kph): 6.2 seconds
Top speed: 250kph (electronically limited)
Features: Airbags, Agility Control suspension, Dynamic Select, Multibeam LED headlights, Adaptive Highbeam Assist, Electrically folding and adjustable exterior mirrors, black open-pore ash wood, flat-bottom multifunction steering wheel in Nappa leather, Tri-zone climate controls with B-pillar vents, rear window powered sunblind, dynamic reverse camera, Active Parking Assist with Parktronic, Blind Spot Assist, Active Brake Assist, Adaptive Brake Lights, adaptive cruise control, Lane-keep assist, 360-degree camera, Keyless-Go, Pre-Safe system, Multimedia System Communications module (LTE) for the use of Mercedes-me connect services, Mercedes-Benz emergency call system, MBUX multimedia system, Widescreen cockpit, Touchpad without controller, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, USB ports in rear with charging function, run-flat tyres, tyre pressure monitoring system, 19-inch 5-twin spoke AMG light-alloy wheels with 245/40 (front) and 275/35 (rear) Goodyear F1 tyres.
Price: RM378,930 (on-the-road without insurance and SST)


Ducati reports stellar sales performance in 2021

                BOLOGNA: Ducati closed 2021 by reporting the best revenues and operating profit ever recorded on the back of improved sales performance.

The Italian motorcycle manufacturer delivered a record of 59,447 units to customers around the world, achieving an increase in sales of 24% higher over 2020 (48,042) and 12% higher over 2019 (53,183).

A record is registered also in terms of revenues, that are equal to €878mil (RM4.97bil) with
growth of 30% over 2020 (€676mil, RM3.13bil) and 23% over 2019 (€716mil, RM3.2bil), and in
terms of operating profit, which reached €61mil (RM282.9mil) thus growing of 154% over 2020
(€24mil, RM111.3mil)) and 18% over 2019 (€52mil, RM241.1mil).

All these results were achieved despite the difficulties faced in the supply crisis and components shortage, on which Ducati is continuously working also with the support of the Volkswagen Group.


Fuel prices: Petrol down, diesel up

PETALING JAYA: The end of 2017 sees petrol prices dipping while diesel price goes up.

As shown in table, RON95 and RON97 petrol are down 1 sen each to RM2.26 per litre and RM2.53 per litre respectively. In contrast, diesel is up 3 sen to RM2.26.

Prices are valid from Dec 29 to Jan 3, 2018.


Thrilling challenge in Cape Town for Shell Rimula Global Promotion winners

                PETALING JAYA: Eight lucky Malaysian grand prize winners of the Shell Rimula Global Promotion had a thrilling time in Cape Town, South Africa, where they had the opportunity to participate in a driving challenge, go on a safari tour and take in the sights of the beautiful coastal city.

Teams from 21 countries – represented by over 150 Shell Rimula customers – competed to be crowned Shell Rimula Expedition Challenge Day champions.

The four-day event put them to work, testing their problem solving and driving skills in a series of challenges involving heavy duty vehicles protected by Shell Rimula.

 Song (left) enjoyed driving on the sand dunes the most.

The teams saw Shell Rimula’s cutting-edge Dynamic Protection Plus technology in action, along with the return of the Shell Rimula Technology Zone – providing them with a unique and interactive opportunity to understand this technology first hand.

For the two women in the Malaysian team, Song Mee Shan from Mukah, Sarawak and Siti Rozita Jamalludin from Rawang, Selangor, the trip was a memorable experience.

“The trip was truly unique as the programme was specially customised in a way that only Shell can.  The driving challenge, in particular, was exceptionally fun, especially at the sand dunes,” said Song, whose company has been a Shell Rimula customer for the past 18 years.

First time Shell Rimula Global Promotion participant and winner Siti Rozita said that the trip was not just all play as it was very educational as well.

“While we have always known that Shell Rimula was the best choice for heavy duty engines, the interactive sessions and demonstrations gave us a better understanding of how the oil really works to protect engine parts.  I am even more convinced now that it is a superior lubricant and I will definitely recommend it to my customers,” she said.

Shell continues its lubricants market leadership in 2015 according to Kline & Company’s Global Lubricants Industry: Market Analysis and Assessment 2016 report, published recently.

Malaysia ranks among Top 3 markets for the Shell Lubricants global business.


Hyundai Pony coupe concept restored 50 years on

                COMO (Italy): Hyundai Motor Co recently celebrated the restoration of the Pony coupe concept at a reunion held at historic Villa Pliniana in Lake Como, Italy.

At Hyundai's debut at the 1974 Turin Motor Show, the Korean automaker had shown its Pony coupe concept.

For the rebuilt project, Hyundai Motor collaborated with Italian design firm GFG Style, notably its father and son founders Giorgetto and Fabrizio Giugiaro to rebuild the 1974 Pony coupe concept that young Giorgetto had created.

At the reunion event, Hyundai Motor also showcased its N Vision 74 concept, which was inspired by the Pony coupe concept.

"Despite the poor industrial environment in the 1970s, my grandfather and Hyundai's founding chairman Ju-young Chung poured his heart and soul into rebuilding Korea's economy and improving the lives of its people after the devastating Korean War. He finally realized his vision of making Korea a country capable of developing its own vehicles with perfection," said Euisun Chung, executive chair of Hyundai Motor Group.

"I express my sincere gratitude to everyone from both Italy and Korea who played a critical role in the success of Pony."

Hyundai Reunion, a heritage brand platform that reflects on Hyundai Motor's past and its future direction, brought together all the designers and engineers involved on N Vision 74 and the original Pony coupe concept, including Giorgetto Giugiaro and former Hyundai Motor president Chung Goo Lee, for the celebration.

"In the age of electrification, a key condition for Hyundai Motor to become a leader in future mobility will be our ability to remain faithful to the unshakable values we inherited," said Jaehoon Chang, president and CEO of Hyundai Motor.

"Moving forward, through Hyundai Reunion and other heritage communication initiatives, we will continue to leverage our past as a unique vector for our future innovation."


Bentley Pikes Peak Continental GT by Mulliner is ready

                LONDON: Bentley has announced that the first of a limited run on 15 examples of its Pikes Peak Continental GT by Mulliner has been built at its carbon-neutral factory in Crewe, England.

This particular model celebrates the record-breaking run of a standard Continental GT at the famous 19.83km Pikes Peak International Hill Climb in 2019 that bettered the record by 8.488 seconds at 10 minutes and 18.488 seconds.

The limited-edition model features exclusive Radium by Mulliner paintwork, a carbon fibre body kit, Acid Green brake disc callipers, and Pirelli P Zero Colour Edition Tyres with 35% of the allocated vehicles including the optional mountain decal - the same as the record-holding vehicle.

It rolls on standard Gloss Black 22-inch Mulliner Driving Specification wheels with an optional ‘100’ grille is a reminder that the Continental GT’s impressive hill climb achievement took place in Bentley’s centenary year.

Detailing on the interior consists of Alcantara with Radium contrast stitching that's matched with Beluga hide, carbon fibre fascias and waist rails including a Pikes Peak Overlay on the passenger fascia and exclusive B&O speaker covers in Black Anodised and Radium finish.

The steering wheel features a honeycomb stitching design and a centre stripe both in Radium, as per the Pikes Peak GT race car.

Carbon fibre fascias and waist rails are complemented by a Piano Black centre console, while the passenger-side fascia features a graphic showing a section of the Pikes Peak track, with five different graphics being used across the 15-car run, along with the record-setting time of 10:18.488.

There's also the Pikes Peak embroidery for the seat's headrests in Radium stitching, Radium contrast binding on the over mats and Pikes Peak treadplates, deep pile over mats and Front Seat Comfort Specification before getting fitted with a Bentley Rotating Display.

Like the Continental GT that broke the 2019 record, the new model features the a twin-turbo W12 engine developing 626bhp and 900Nm of torque which helps it to accelerate from 0 to 100kph in 3.7 seconds before reaching a top speed of 333kph.

Deciding now to purchase one of the 15 units will net buyers with disappointment since all have already been spoken for with deliveries scheduled to begin in September across the globe.


Blackpink in Malaysia presented by Kia

                PETALING JAYA: Korean super girl group Blackpink is finally ‘In Your Area’ as they will be performing at Malawati Indoor Stadium, Kuala Lumpur on Feb 23 and 24, 2019.

The concert is presented by Kia Motors, who announced the partnership with Blackpink for their 2019 World Tour earlier this month.

Fans or Blinks can look forward to a whole line-up of exciting activities Kia Malaysia has in store, starting with the Kia Malaysia x Blackpink Valentine’s Day Contest where two lucky winners will score a pair of Red Zone concert tickets and exclusive Sound Check and Send-Off passes each to meet Jennie, Jisoo, Rosé and Lisa up-close.

To enter, just test drive any Kia car at Kia showrooms, snap a photo and upload it on either Facebook or Instagram with the hashtag #KiaMalaysiaBLACKPINK to be in the running.

This contest is open to all Malaysians and is valid from Feb 1 – 17, 2019.

Kia Malaysia will also be showcasing a booth at the concert grounds where Blinks can stand a chance to win exclusive Blackpink autographed CDs. All you need to do is show off your best Blackpink-inspired dance choreography or carpool karaoke skill to your favourite Blackpink songs, and post a video or photo of it on Facebook or Instagram with the official hashtag #MovewithKiaMalaysia to be noticed.

So Blinks, only a limited few Blackpink autographed CDs are up for grabs.

Malaysian heartthrob Alvin Chong is also set to make an appearance at the Kia booth on Sunday, Feb 24, 2019 from 3pm onwards before Blackpink's performance starts.

The partnership between Kia Motors Corporation and Blackpink marks the first of many K-pop collaborations to be announced in 2019 by the Korean automotive manufacturer aimed at establishing a closer connection to the younger generation through a new K-Pop-inspired outreach campaign.


BMW Shorties narrows it down to 10 finalists

                KUALA LUMPUR: The BMW Shorties has selected its top 10 finalists from a pool of aspiring filmmakers.

They are Dermaga by AliffIhsan Rahman; Tuck by Gordon Ling Fu Chur; Koci 5 Ringgit by Khairul Azharuddin; Fish by Gan Yu Long; Gigi by Audrie Yeo; Return by Sean Kook Way Siong; Zuan by Vance Chong Yew Hui; Highway by Aw See Wee; Cycle of Violence by CastonJ; and The Return by S. Keshvan

The theme for the ninth edition of the annual short film contest centres around "Change" and is aimed at challenging the creativity of Malaysians in communicating changes through film.

The panel of judges include a line-up of local film makers such as Rajay Singh, Affandi Jamaluddin, Ismail Kamarul, Lina Tan and Nandita Solomon.

Aside from the chance of winning the RM75,000 production grant as well as recognition in a line-up of supporting awards, the nominees of the Best Screenplay Award will each qualify for the Red Films script development grant. The grant consists of cash and script consultancy from industry experts at Red Communications.

The finalists' short films were screened at the BMW Shorties Festival 2015 on Nov 28, which also marked the start of the public voting period for the People’s Choice Award which  ends on Dec 5.


Tesla Signature series Model X to begin delivery Sept 29

                SAN FRANCISCO: Tesla Motors Inc said on Wednesday it would begin delivering its first luxury electric crossovers, the Model X Signature series, on Sept 29 to customers who have already reserved the sport utility vehicles.

The premium-priced special version of the Model X, eagerly awaited since it was announced in early 2012, will be priced between $132,000 and $144,000, a Tesla spokesman said.

Chief executive officer Elon Musk tweeted that the first production cars would be handed over Sept. 29 at the company's factory in Fremont, California.

It is customary for automakers to debut higher-priced versions of their cars before introducing standard models.
Tesla has been spending heavily ahead of the launch of the Model X, its first battery-powered SUV to follow the Model S sedan to market, even as it develops a cheaper, mass-market vehicle starting at US$35,000, the Model 3.

Musk tweeted that the Model 3 would begin production in "about two years." The limited-edition Signature series cars, which will be available in a unique red colour not offered for the standard Model X, include such features as self-parking and enhanced sound. Optional add-ons include packages for sub-zero weather or towing.


Bentley L-Series V8 hits end of production

                CREWE, England: The mighty Bentley 6.75-litre V8 engine – the longest serving V8 design in continuous production – has finally reached the end of its handcrafted manufacturing run.

The final engine was assembled in Crewe on June 1 by the dedicated team of seven people, who between them have a combined experience of 105 years building Bentley’s iconic V8 engine.

Bentley’s Member of the Board for Manufacturing, Peter Bosch, comments: “Our venerable 6¾-litre V8 has powered the flagship Bentley for more than six decades, and so has earned its retirement. Now, we look forward to the future of Bentley, powered by our exceptional W12, sporting 4.0-litre V8 and the V6 Hybrid - the start of our journey to electrification.”

Read more: Bentley Bentayga V8 in Malaysia

In production for more than 60 years, and with the same configuration and bore spacing as the very first version from 1959, the last L-Series engine will spend its life powering the 30th and last specially commissioned Mulsanne 6.75 Edition by Mulliner.

This bespoke series closes the Mulsanne’s production run, and celebrates the life of its iconic engine with a myriad of V8-inspired details including badging, blueprint graphics and even ventilation “organ stops” featuring a miniature version of the oil cap.

Read more: Bentley's beehive of activity

Originally designed by a team of Bentley engineers in the 1950s to deliver a step change in performance over the straight six it replaced, the L-Series V8 first saw service in the 1959 Bentley S2 – developing around 180 bhp, deemed “adequate” by Bentley at the time.

Since then, through the advent of continual design improvement, turbocharging (first single, then twin), electronic control systems, fuel injection and variable valve timing the modern descendant of that original engine has evolved into something truly extraordinary.

Developing 530 bhp for the Mulsanne Speed, together with an astonishing 1,100 Nm of torque, the low-revving engine delivers a unique character that defined the widely-recognised “wave of torque” that all Bentleys now ride.

At the same time, emissions have been drastically reduced, with the modern engine producing 99% fewer harmful emissions than its forebear.

Every one of the 36,000 L-Series engines built over the last 60 years has been created by hand in the engine workshops of Bentley’s Crewe headquarters.

Even the modern engine takes 15 hours to build, and the key internal components are individually chosen to form a matching, balanced set so that the engine runs perfectly smoothly.

Once completed, and after thorough testing, the engine is signed off by one of Bentley’s engine specialists, as it has been for decades – with a plate denoting their signature affixed to the front of the engine.

With the Mulsanne completing production once the thirty 6.75 Edition cars are built, the all-new Flying Spur will become Bentley’s flagship model and will also receive a hybrid powertrain by 2023.

Bentley had taken its first step towards electrification with the the Bentayga Hybrid - the luxury SUV sector’s first plug-in hybrid and the most efficient Bentley ever.


New VW Polo GTI teased ahead of June world premiere

                WOLFSBURG: Volkswagen is offering a first peek at the new Polo GTI ahead of what would have been the traditional GTI weekend meet near Lake Wörthersee in Austria.

The annual event has been cancelled for the second year because of the ongoing pandemic.

The Polo GTI is based on the new Polo that was recently presented as a midcycle refresh, and will become the premium and sportiest version of the product line.

The official world premiere of the new Polo GTI will take place at the end of June.

With its high-torque front-wheel drive, dynamically tuned sports chassis and expressive design, it is created to stand out from the crowd along with its promise of exceptional driving dynamics in combination with everyday usability.

The GTI meet near Lake Wörthersee can look back on a long history. GTI fans met for the first time in 1982 in the Austrian municipality of Reifnitz/Maria Wörth.

Over the years, the 4-day event not only attracted car enthusiasts, but also became a true folk festival under the motto “GTI”.


PLUS highway users start to enjoy reduced toll rates

                KUALA LUMPUR: Millions of Malaysian highway users started to enjoy an 18% reduced toll rates starting today.

Based on calculations made by the government, through the concession restructuring of PLUS, both the government and the people would see a total savings of up to RM1.1bil for this year alone.

And with this restructuring, the government stands to save some RM42bil in the span of the new concession period of up to 2058.

These include a saving of RM0.5bil from the 18% discount as well as a saving of RM0.6bil from the government compensation payments to freeze the toll rate hike.

Finance Minister Lim Guan Eng said the savings would be channeled to welfare and economic development programmes that would benefit the people as a whole.

"With the reduction in toll rates effective from Feb 1, 2020, the government has taken significant steps towards fulfilling the promise to gradually eliminate tolls by renegotiating the highway concession agreement, as promised in the Pakatan Harapan (PH) Manifesto," he said.

The Cabinet meeting on Jan 15 decided that 18% toll discount will be given to passenger car, bus and taxi (i.e Class 1, 4 and 5) on the New Klang Valley Expressway (NKVE), North South Expressway Central Link (Elite), Malaysia-Singapore Second-Link Highway (Linkedua), Phase 2 East Coast Expressway (LPT 2), Seremban Port Dickson Highway (SPDH) and the Butterworth - Kulim Expressway (BKE).

The discount is also applicable to Class 2, 3, 4 and 5 vehicles plying the Penang Bridge.

With the toll reduction effective today, the rate of the affected highways dropped from 13.6 sen/km to 11.15 sen/km, lower than the toll rate in 1999 which was 11.24 sen / km.

Starting today, motorists travelling from Jalan Duta to Alor Setar will only pay RM45.50 compared to RM55.50 previously, while those going to Skudai from Jalan Duta will only pay RM38.50 from RM47.00.

Meanwhile, in a statement, PLUS said the company would continue to be committed to provide the best highway services at all times in order to ensure a pleasant travel experience of customers on all its highways.


What is green steel and why are car makers excited about it?

                WOLFSBURG: Volkswagen has just announced a deal with the Salzgitter steel group to supply low-carbon steel from the end of 2025. What exactly is this so-called green steel?

Salzgitter has already started producing green steel, on a small scale, on its scrap-based electric steel route. In order to significantly reduce CO2 emissions during steel production, fossil fuels — especially coal — need to be replaced by green hydrogen, which is produced from renewable energy sources.

Volkswagen plans to use this low-carbon, non-fossil-fuel steel in major projects such as its upcoming Trinity electric sedan. Last year, Volvo and Mercedes-Benz announced that they too would soon use green steel in the production of their future models.

This type of initiative will help significantly reduce the carbon footprint of these manufacturers, for whom sustainable development and the circular economy are now two key concepts.


Shell Rimula engine oil chosen by MPire Auto Group

                PETALING JAYA: Mpire Auto Group, one of the fastest-growing automotive groups in Malaysia, has chosen the Shell Rimula range of heavy-duty diesel engine oils as its official service-fill engine oil for its two commercial vehicle brands - Foton and JAC.

The group distributes Foton View C2 and CS2 vans as well as the Foton Daimler heavy-duty trucks equipped with advanced Cummins engines and is also the exclusive distributor for Isuzu-powered JAC light trucks in Malaysia.

The Shell Rimula R5 LE synthetic technology engine oil is said to be well suited for the high oil drain interval and heavy-duty diesel engine found in Foton Daimler prime movers while the Rimula R4 X meets the demand for engine protection for the JAC range of light trucks that are often used as daily workhorses.

Mpire Auto Group Chief Executive Officer Lau Yit Mun said that the combination of a strong reputation and track record in lubricants, reliable products that are compatible with Foton and JAC’s advanced diesel engines and excellent technical support led to the decision to choose Shell Rimula as the service-fill engine oil and Shell Malaysia Trading Sdn Bhd as the official lubricants supplier.

“Today’s customers demand reliability and performance from engine oils and Shell is able to fulfil them,” said Lau.

Shell Lubricants Marketing Manager - Malaysia & Singapore, May Tan said that as the top lubricants supplier in the world for the past 12 consecutive years, Shell understands the need to achieve lower total cost of ownership in today’s challenging business environment.

“Shell Rimula lubricants, especially our premium range, are designed to offer superior engine protection and cleanliness, longer oil drain intervals and better fuel economy while being able to withstand extreme temperatures and loads in tough operating environments,” added Tan.


E-fuels could prop up gas guzzlers in an electric world

                TOKYO: Imagine there’s a virtually carbon-neutral version of gasoline. You could keep running your old gas guzzler for years more, top it up at a regular filling station and still enjoy a climate-friendlier drive.

Even as an electric future is assured for most mainstream transport, several of the world’s leading auto giants and Big Oil are working on plans to extend the lives of combustion engine vehicles and aircraft.

Toyota and Audi are among the carmakers exploring the potential of e-fuels, or synthetic fuels, while Porsche and energy giant Exxon Mobil plan to start some production as soon as next year.

Japan, meanwhile, is working to establish large-scale manufacturing technologies by the end of the decade and to deliver synthetic fuels in commercial volumes by 2040.

Toyota’s president Akio Toyoda is among the most vocal advocates for the fuels. As chairman of the Japan Automobile Manufacturers Association, he frequently argues the nation’s goal of a carbon-neutral transport sector by 2050 can’t be achieved simply by banning sales of new gasoline-powered cars.

E-fuels could be deployed to curb emissions from existing ICE vehicles, which will continue to be in circulation for decades, he says. That’s a logic that could hold true in other markets like Britain, Germany and Canada, which are among the dozen or so countries that have set deadlines to phase out sales of new combustion engine models.

Harder-to-electrify segments of the transport sector like planes, ships and large commercial vehicles also could be served by the synthetic products.

A February flight from Amsterdam to Madrid operated by Air France-KLM’s Dutch arm was the first to use so-called sustainably derived synthetic aviation fuel, according to the airline.

E-fuel is made when electricity is used to split water into hydrogen and oxygen. That hydrogen is then combined with carbon dioxide and converted into a liquid product that’s similar to petrol or diesel and yet essentially emissions free.

One key drawback. The process is hugely expensive. E-fuels today cost about US$5.28 per litre, according to a study by German energy agency Dena. That’s about five times the cost of a litre of gas in the US.

Companies including Siemens Energy, Mazda and Robert Bosch are among those backing further development of synthetic fuels and seeking support from governments and regulators. Most current work is centered on pilot projects or prototypes, according to industry group eFuel Alliance.

Investments are being made to bring costs down, and developers will benefit from refinements in technology for green hydrogen — produced using a similar process — and advances by the carbon-capture industry. Japan is aiming to make synthetic fuels as cheap as, or cheaper than, gasoline by mid-century.

Cutting the price of a climate-friendly gasoline is one challenge. Securing long-term demand in a world that’s turning away from fossil fuel-powered transport may prove harder.


Updated Suzuki Swift in the UK

                LONDON: Anybody misses the Suzuki Swift in Malaysia? Although unavailable at the moment, the third generation Suzuki Swift is on sale in the UK and Republic of Ireland with revised front-end styling, higher standard specification and even further emphasis on safety equipment levels across the range.

For 2021, the Swift comes with an enhanced 1.2-litre engine and hybrid as standard as all models are now fitted with Suzuki’s enhanced 12V Hybrid system.

In addition to its stylish exterior design in a compact size of just 3,845mm long, the Swift  features excellent visibility, a spacious cabin and ample luggage space.

Standard equipment for all models in the range is even more comprehensive than before and the new SZ-L model includes air conditioning, rear view camera, Radar Brake Support with Adaptive Cruise Control, smartphone link for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, DAB radio, leather steering wheel, privacy glass, LED Headlamps, LED rear combination lamps, polished 16-inch alloy wheels and front electric windows.

The SZ-T adds grey painted 16-inch alloy wheels, Dual Sensor Brake Support, Lane Departure Warning and Prevention, Weaving Alert, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Blind Spot Monitor, Traffic Sign Recognition and rear parking sensors.

SZ5 adds Navigation, 16-inch polished alloy wheels, automatic air conditioning, keyless entry and start, telescopic steering wheel adjustment, rear electric windows and door mirror side turn indicators.

The Swift is available in one solid colour and six optional metallic colours with three dual tone colours  incorporating a Black Pearl roof also available optionally.


Ford EcoSport makes Snapchat debut

                LOS ANGELES: Ford's compact SUV for younger drivers has driven into the record books as the first car ever to launch via the Snapchat social network

One day, two automotive world firsts. Hot on the heels of Jaguar reaching for a HTC Vive headset and Virtual Reality to launch a new model, Ford has grabbed its smartphone for what it says is the world's first new car reveal via Snapchat.

And in both cases, the launch medium is completely apt. The new Jaguar concept car is all about the technology and possibilities of tomorrow, whereas Ford's new EcoSport is all about fun, hassle-free driving, individuality and the possibilities for adventure. In other words those that Ford describe as "going small and living big."

"More people are choosing to spend their time and money sharing experiences with friends and family instead of buying more stuff," said Chantel Lenard, ?executive director, Ford US marketing. "EcoSport fits perfectly into this growing lifestyle."

Therefore it shouldn't come as a surprise that the car's connectivity and entertainment capabilities are being singled out. It supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and fast-charging USB ports in the front. Infotainment is delivered via an integrated 8-inch touchscreen system and there's even the option of a premium Bang & Olufsen sound system with 10 speakers.

What's more, owners will be able to start, lock and locate their EcoSport with nothing more than their smartphones and the FordPass app.

However, the powerplants aren't too shabby either. Initial engines will include a 1.0-litre turbocharged EcoBoost unit and a 2.0-litre engine that comes with all-wheel drive as standard.

Standard equipment on all models will include a six-speed automatic transmission and up to 30 separate storage spaces, hooks and pockets for ultimate practicality.

As for personalisation, there will be a choice of 10 exterior paint finishes, seven ambient interior lighting options and a choice of four different trim levels.


VW's 9-month electric vehicle deliveries to China more than triple

                FRANKFURT: Volkswagen's deliveries of battery-powered electric vehicles to China more than tripled in the first nine months of the year, the carmaker said today, less than two months after it flagged the need to change its e-car strategy there.

Deliveries of battery electric vehicles (BEV) to the world's largest car market stood at 47,200 in the January-September period, up from 15,700 in the same period last year.

"As planned, we significantly accelerated the BEV market ramp-up in China in the third quarter, and we are on track to meet our target for the year of delivering 80,000 to 100,000 vehicles of the ID. model family," Christian Dahlheim, head of group sales, said.

Volkswagen chief executive Herbert Diess in July said the carmaker had to change its approach to how it markets its BEVs in China after first-half deliveries stood at just 18,285.


Buy a car with bitcoin? Some US car dealers were years ahead of Musk

It takes several minutes to turn bitcoin into US dollars on a payment platform, which occasionally leads to losses averaging US$300 to US$400 on each transaction due to price movements. — Reuters
SAN FRANCISCO: Georgia car dealer Christopher Basha was way ahead of Elon Musk in embracing bitcoin as a currency for selling vehicles.

Basha said he learned about cryptocurrency from a roommate who mined bitcoin. “Someone bought a pizza with bitcoin,” he said. “Buying a car with bitcoin didn’t seem that crazy.”

He began accepting bitcoin payments in 2015, but no customers were interested. “I almost forgot about it,” he said.

In 2017, bitcoin prices surged, and one customer used the cryptocurrency to buy four Kias for a total of more than US$150,000, Basha said. Bitcoin payments have been picking up since late last year, with prices rallying.

Basha is one of a small group of auto dealers who have been accepting bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies from customers well ahead of Tesla Inc’s revelation that it had bought US$1.5 billion of the cryptocurrency and would soon accept it as a form of payment for cars.

Dealers said accepting cryptocurrency is a good marketing and branding tool. But it is still a niche business. Price volatility and the absence of trusted banks and other financial intermediaries make bitcoin payments a risk for dealers who are not tech savvy.

READ MORE: You can't buy Proton cars with Bitcoin

Basha, the Kia dealer, said he converts bitcoin into cash immediately upon receipt because he believes it risky for a company the size of his to hold such a volatile asset. But it does take several minutes to turn bitcoin into US dollars on a payment platform, which occasionally leads to losses averaging US$300 to US$400 on each transaction due to price movements.

Once, he forgot his password to send bitcoin from one account to another to make the dollar conversion after receiving payments from a customer. “I was freaked out… There is no middleman who’s going to come save you.”

Pietro Frigerio, a Lamborghini dealer in Irvine, California, said when bitcoin prices surged in 2017, his store sold 20 cars in a month. But during the latest rally, he has not seen much increase in bitcoin payments.

“People are waiting for exchange rates to go up further,” said Frigerio, who also sells other premium luxury sports cars like Bugatti and McLaren.

He said customers who bought cars with bitcoin have something in common: they are young people who have a strong belief in virtual currency.

“More and more, Bitcoin is becoming a common payment form,” Lamborghini said in a statement to Reuters, adding that its dealers are free to decide payment methods.

Peter Saddington, founder of cryptocurrency startup Emrit, bought a Lamborghini Huracan in 2017 using bitcoin that he bought in 2011 for US$115 in a bid to bring attention to his company and cryptocurrency.

“(Tesla’s move) is certainty a PR stunt,” he said. “But Elon is very progressive in his thinking, so it makes sense to me that he would offer a future currency for his company.”


German church sets speed limit for motoring clergy members

                MAGDEBURG (Germany): Germany's Evangelical Church has agreed on a voluntary speed limit of 100kph on the highway for members of the clergy in response to concerns about climate change.

There are no speed limit on large stretches of Germany's Autobahn network and in some areas it is perfectly legal for drivers to press the pedal to the metal and drive at top speed.

Sections with limits are now becoming more common and an advisory speed limit of 130kph is in force throughout the network.

The protestant church's agreed slow-down came in a resolution at the church's four-day synod in the eastern city of Magdeburg in November.

It also stipulates that clergy and other staff should adhere to a speed limit of 80kph on country roads when driving in a church context.

Church president Anna-Nicole Heinrich said that the church had a role to play in climate protests, although it was clear that climate pressure groups such as Fridays for Future were at the forefront.

"We are no longer in the front line, but we can work away in the background. We share many of their aims," said the leading churchwoman.

The church also spoke up in favour of a blanket 120 km/h limit on all roads in Germany, where large sections of the Autobahn motorway are subject to no speed limit.

Politicians in car-friendly Germany have been debating for years whether drivers should step off the gas to reduce carbon emissions ahead of looming climate catastrophes.

Opponents of more speed limits say the fuel savings this would bring are negligible.


March 1 - 7:  Fuel prices see sweeping increase

PETALING JAYA: Fuel prices are up across the board for the next seven days.

RON95 petrol has jumped three sen to RM2.20 per litre. RON97 is up four sen to RM2.47. Diesel is up five sen to RM2.18.

The new prices were announced on RTM1 today. The increase in fuel prices follows two consecutive weeks of a downward trend in prices.

The new fuel prices will take effect at the stroke of midnight from March 1 - 7.


Lithium-sulphur mix shows promise as 'world's most powerful battery'

                MELBOURNE: Researchers in Australia say they have developed the world's most powerful rechargeable battery using lithium-sulphur, said to perform four times better than the strongest batteries currently available.

What's more, these lithium-sulphur batteries are lighter and cheaper than the widely used lithium-ion batteries and can be produced cost-effectively and in an environmentally friendly manner, the researchers say.

The innovation, made by researchers from Monash University in Clayton, Australia near here, comes as the limits of the current lithium-ion batteries are being tested by their growing use in cars, smartphones and countless other devices.

At the heart of the new battery, still in development, is a particularly robust sulphur electrode, which the team around Monash researcher Mahdokht Shaibani presented in the US journal Science Advances.

The technology could also prove useful in aviation, where planes need to maintain a low weight, according to Holger Althues from the Fraunhofer Institute for Material and Beam Technology IWS in Dresden, participating in the research.

While they are larger than their lithium-ion counterparts, lithium sulphur cells can store more energy at the same weight.

One disadvantage of the lithium-sulphur battery, however, is that the cathode expands and contracts noticeably when absorbing and releasing lithium. This often causes tiny fractures in the material, so that the cell wears out quickly.

However, the Australian research team says it has developed and patented a promising solution to this problem.

"This approach not only favours high performance data and a long service life, but also simple and extremely cost-effective production using water-based processes," Monash researcher Matthew Hill said. "And it can lead to a significant reduction in environmentally hazardous waste." – dpa


Parts maker Visteon expects global auto output to plunge up to 25%

                DETROIT: Major auto parts supplier Visteon Corp on Thursday forecast global production volumes for the auto industry to fall between 20% and 25% this year and warned it would be a couple of years before they returned to 2019 levels.

The US auto industry has been struggling to recover after the coronavirus pandemic shutdown factories and disrupted global supply chains for two months.

“Even before Covid-19, the auto industry was slowing down globally and most notably in China, and COVID-19 has dealt a significant blow, pushing the industry to levels that have not been seen in a long time,” Visteon chief executive officer Sachin Lawand said at a Deutsche Bank auto industry conference.

IHS, which closely tracks automotive sales and production trends, has forecast global light vehicle sales to fall 22% to 70.3 million units in 2020, from its prior estimates of a more than 12% drop.

However, Lawand said China has now rebounded, with Visteon, a key supplier to General Motors and Ford Motor Co, at almost pre-Covid production levels in China.

The automotive industry in the United States has been ramping up after the pandemic-driven shutdown, and major automakers have been keeping a close eye on suppliers in Mexico to ensure the pandemic does not disrupt the flow of auto parts.

Yet another supplier BorgWarner Inc said on Thursday its plants in North America and Europe have been running for almost a month, but flagged volatility in production schedules for OEMs.

Detroit automakers resumed production in the United States on May 18, and Mexico’s export-focused auto industry has been slowly reopening under pressure from its top trade partner, the United States.


2017 Perodua Myvi: Automatic braking, Advanced Safety Assist

The Daihatsu Tanto has Smart Assist III, which can prevent collisions between vehicles and pedestrians.
PETALING JAYA: The flagship 2017 Perodua Myvi Advance grade (priced at RM55,300) gets safety technologies called ASA or Advanced Safety Assist which can reduce damage from low-speed frontal collisions.

The ASA is similar to Daihatsu's Smart Assist crash-avoidance assist system, which detects vehicles in front and avoids the risk of a crash or minimises damage at low speeds.

Daihatsu's Smart Assist has functions such as automatic braking to assist low-speed crash avoidance, accelerator pedal mis-operation control, and notification of motion of a vehicle in front - similar to the Myvi's ASA.

The Myvi's ASA uses a camera, located behind the rear-view mirror, which can detect vehicles up to 60 metres and pedestrians up to 30 metres ahead.

ASA consists of Pre-Collision Warning (PCW), Pre-Collision Braking (PCB), Front Departure Alert (FDA) and Pedal Mis-operation Control (PMC).

Pre-Collision Warning (PCW) and Pre-Collision Braking (PCB)

PCW alerts the driver via audio signals when it detects a risk of frontal collision (works up to 60 metres).

PCB applies the brakes automatically when it detects an increasing risk of frontal collision.

PCW and PCB work at speeds of 30kph and below.

From 20kph to 30kph, automatic braking will reduce damage from the collision.

PCB works best at 20kph and below, where the car can come to a complete stop via automatic braking, depending on conditions such as dry or wet roads.

However, PCW and PCB might not work under certain conditions:

- the glass in front of the stereo camera is not dirty or dusty.
- external environment is too bright, too dark, or there is heavy rain
- the car in front is too tall, too small, too low
- car or pedestrian suddenly jumps/appears on the road

Front Departure Alert (FDA)

FDA alerts the driver when the vehicle ahead has moved (such as at traffic lights or road junctions).
This is quite helpful, especially in an era when many drivers look at their smartphones in slow-moving or stop-and-go traffic.

Pedal Mis-operation Control (PMC)

PMC suppresses engine output when the driver accidentally stomps on the accelerator pedal (such as during low-speed parking).
This reduces damage from incidents where the driver has panicked.

READ MORE:
2017 Perodua Myvi: fuel efficient Dual VVT-i engines
New Perodua Myvi round the corner, priced from RM44,300
2017 Perodua Myvi: Full in-house design for upper body

The 2017 Myvi breaks new ground in the national car segment, and also in the sub-RM100,000 car segment, by fitting advanced safety features such as Pre-Collision Warning and Braking.

ALL Myvi variants are equipped with Smart Entry with Push Start/Stop button, LED headlamps with Follow-Me function and headlamp levelling.

In addition, all Myvi variants will also come with ABS with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution, Vehicle Stability Control.

Five Myvi variants are available:

> 1.3 Standard G (MT): RM44,300
> 1.3 Standard G (AT): RM46,300
> 1.3 Premium X (AT): RM48,300
> 1.5 High (AT): RM51,800
> 1.5 Advance (AT): RM55,300

The new Myvi comes with a 5-year or 150,000km (whichever is first) warranty.

Gallery: Myvi 1.5-litre (Advanced grade)Myvi 1.5-litre (High grade)Myvi 1.5-litre (High grade in GearUp kit)


Climate groups clamour for SUVs to be banned

                FRANKFURT: Climate groups including Greenpeace and Deutsche Umwelthilfe called today for sports-utility vehicles (SUVs) to be banned as part of a wider campaign to curb pollution by the auto industry.

Carmakers should stop developing large, heavy cars and vehicles with combustion engines, the "Exit" consortium said at a press conference on the eve of the Frankfurt auto show.

"As long as SUVs rather than small electric vehicles dominate automotive transport, cars will remain the problem child for us climate activists," said the consortium.

Volkswagen's chief executive Herbert Diess has agreed to meet activists from "Sand in the Gearbox" for a debate about the auto industry tonight.

The German automaker is preparing to launch a raft of hybrid and electric vehicles to try to banish a diesel emissions cheating scandal which has cost the company more than €30 billion (RM139bil) in refit costs and fines.

Hybrid vehicles can help cut carbon dioxide pollution, carmakers say.

"These fake arguments brought forward by the industry are exactly the reason why we are taking to the streets," said a spokesman for Sand in the Gearbox, which has called for a blockade of the Frankfurt show and increased use of bicycles.

Activists say job losses among the auto industry's 800,000 workers in Germany could be recouped via extra investments in public transport and railways.


Porsche China to get new CEO from June 1

                STUTTGART: Michael Kirsch (pic), currently CEO of Porsche Japan, will become president and CEO of Porsche China and Porsche Hongkong and Macau on June 1.

Kirsch, 56, has been CEO of Porsche Japan since 2019. He previously held the same position at Porsche Korea for three years. Between 2012 and 2016, he gained a detailed insight into Porsche China in his role as chief operating officer.

Prior to joining Porsche, he held senior management positions at BMW and an international hotel chain.

“Michael has been very successful, especially when dealing with customer satisfaction and service quality. I am confident that he will set further strong impulses with plenty of valuable initiatives for the Chinese market and will continue to increase the impact of our brand there,” said Detlev von Platen, member of the executive board responsible for sales and marketing at Porsche AG.

Kirsch's predecessor, Jens Puttfarcken, is appointed by Audi AG to take on the role of its European sales head. He has been president and CEO for Porsche China, Hongkong and Macau since 2018.


First drive: Off to Perak in new Bentley Bentayga V8

                Driving a Bentley has always been a particular joy with its vehicles possessing ultra-luxury extras that have been properly blended with high-performance credentials and the new Bentayga sports utility vehicle (SUV) with a twin-turbo V8 engine is no different.

Thanks to Bentley in Malaysia, we were able to helm this high-powered SUV for a trip north into the state of Perak and back for a day.

With clear blue skies ahead we set off on the trip starting with a highway run which was followed by rougher B-roads to showcase its abilities in the ride and handling department.

This particular Bentayga was the British marque’s 4.0-litre (3,996cc) twin-turbo V8 variant that drinks from an 85-litre fuel tank - filled up with RON95 or up to RON98 petrol, to generate up to 550PS and 770Nm of torque.

To help it not become such a fuel guzzler, the direct injection engine also has cylinder deactivation for four of its cylinders when cruising.

For this drive, the Bentayga came as a left-hand drive pre-production prototype version that was painted in Rose Gold and accented by chrome bits placed conspicuously so as not to “outshine” the exceptional paintwork.

The Bentayga’s price tag starts at a base price (without duties, taxes and registration) of RM743,900 and with all its luxury options included that amount balloons to RM1,061,000.

The company's order books are open now and deliveries are expected to begin in the fourth quarter this year.

The Bentayga rolls on larger 22-inch (+1.0-inch) wheels wrapped with Pirelli P Zero 285/40 tyres that are part of the marque’s Mulliner Driving Specifications - and it managed to fill out the wheel arches rather nicely.

In both instances, there was nothing to complain about with plenty of ponies to tap into and a high level of compliance over uneven surfaces - even when in Sport mode.

The standard eight-speed ZF automatic transmission was able to react quickly to throttle inputs regardless of being in one of the four drive modes (Individual, Comfort, Bentley or Sport).

Power is further distributed to the permanent all-wheel-drive system with a Torsen centre differential and an open rear differential with an electronic differential lock.

Under full-throttle, there was hardly any front lift or rear squat as we tried to sprint from 0 to 100kph in 4.5 seconds - impressive for something that has a standard kerb weight of 2,146kg, and while we weren’t able to, we trust that it’ll easily reach a top speed of 290kph while keeping you firmly planted into the backrest.

The Bentayga’s front six-piston and rear mono-piston callipers can properly abuse the front 400mm and rear 380mm ventilated discs.

Here, brake-feel was direct and had a proper amount of an initial bite that wasn’t overly excited nor dull. Travelling deeper into the brake pedal made this luxury SUV feel unbecomingly sporty and (again) nose-dive at the front-end was impressively minimal.

This was all thanks to the self-levelling air suspension with Continuous Damping Control paired up with a 48-volt electric active anti-roll bar for the front quad-link double wishbones and rear trapezoidal multi-link suspension which helps to mitigate bumps and uneven road surfaces exceptionally well while also maintaining a levelled drive at all possible instances.

The combination makes cornering the Bentayga in Sport mode simply supreme while it constantly deals with pitch and roll seemingly better than "The Boss' boss” - masking its kerb weight exceptionally well to give it a very nimble and neutral disposition despite it having a 56:44 (front to rear) weight distribution.

Calming down to a more relaxed drive along the highway route, the Bentayga’s Comfort mode will be the way to go as it takes abrupt throttle responses and suspension harshness away to literally soak up road imperfections while still maintaining a well-levelled ride.

During this moment, it was time to appreciate the equipage of the cabin that had a combination of Linen and Brunel leather for the headliner, diamond-quilted door inserts and perforated heated/vented seats with massage functionality and contrast stitching.

Rear seated occupants will also be pleasantly surprised by the inclusion of heated/vented seats for them as well and a pair of properly cooling rear cabin vents to keep comfort levels high during a hot day.

Not to mention, the Sunshine specification for its panoramic roof and powered side windows keep glare at a minimum and the addition of Koa wood veneer accents for the five-seater configured cabin - allowing the boot to accept up to 484 litres of storage, gives a nod to one’s high level of maturity and taste.

Specifically for the driver, this Bentayga was equipped with the Touring Specification which included adaptive cruise control.

Also incorporated for added safety was the Bentley Safeguard Plus system which constantly scans the road for possible frontal collisions and if detected it will automatically alert the driver and apply the brakes.

This gets paired up with a heads-up-display, Traffic Sign Recognition, Lane Assist, Park Assist, Night Vision and Traffic assist which senses vehicles and initiates small steering inputs to help avoid an unfortunate event.

Although the cabin is well insulated, the V8s grunt is more noticeable in the rear than in the front when in Sport mode. This opens up a valve within the exhaust system to add some slight drone into the cabin and happens to be a welcomed soundtrack that mixes nicely with the 1,780-watt 17-channel Naim sound system with 20-speakers.

The sound system is controlled by a crystal clear 10.9-inch central touchscreen with gesture control, navigation with 3D building display, Digital Audio Broadcasting (DAB) radio, wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth and a rear touchscreen remote.

All in, the V8-powered Bentayga feels nimble at all times thanks to the collaboration of its tricked-out suspension system that's paired with the use of rigid high-strength steel together with an aluminium monocoque (including the front fenders) that have been superformed by hot gases heated to between 450 and 500 degrees Celsius.

The Bentayga, in general, is able to run quietly or boisterously at the owner’s behest, not to mention, have the ability to claw at the road during spirited drives with the electronic power-assisted steering system able to afford direct and accurate inputs.

Its uncanny calmness provides a playful disposition about it that ultimately impresses, considering the size and heft of this SUV, while maintaining a respectable 0.34Cd (coefficient of drag) for a relatively quiet highway driving experience that's further deadened by the inclusion of Acoustic side window glass.

Finally, to justify this ultra-luxury SUV’s gigantic asking price, it's simply and unquestionably a posh ride intertwined with plenty of gusto and refinement that's be-fitting those who are properly prestigious.

Now, the only question remains is how well it'll fare against its upcoming plugin hybrid variant and performance-oriented 6.0-litre W12 Speed flagship to help discerning buyers decipher their preferred flavour of performance - playful (V8), efficient (plugin hybrid) or brutish (W12).

Unfortunately, there's no mention as to when these variants will be arriving in Malaysia especially with the world still within the vice-grips of the Covid-19 pandemic.

SPECIFICATIONSBentley Bentayga V8 First Edition Engine: 3,996cc direct-injection V8 petrol
Maximum power: 550PS at 6,000rpm
Maximum torque: 770Nm from 1,960 to 4,500rpm
Transmission: 8-speed ZF automatic

Key features (with options): Six airbags, 22-inch wheels with 285/40 Pirelli P Zero tyres, full matrix LED headlights with signature daytime running lights, redesigned LED rear light cluster, new bumper mounted secondary lamps, new 10.9-inch central touchscreen with gesture control, new navigation system with 3D building display, DAB radio, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth connectivity, 4G telephone module, 4G Wi-Fi hotspot, touchscreen remote for rear cabin control, heated/ventilated front and rear seats with massage function (front only), four driving modes (Individual, Comfort, Bentley and Sport), complimentary Breitling clock with dark mother of pearl face, Bentley all-terrain modes (Snow, dirt, gravel and sand), heads-up-display, adaptive cruise control, lane assist, night vision, traffic assist, powered side window blinds, acoustic side windows, panoramic roof, Bentley Dynamic Ride air suspension system, sports pedals, Jewel fuel and oil caps, embroidered "Bentley" emblems, diamond quilting on doors and seats, leather headliner, Koa veneer, Naim sound system, hands free powered boot operation, mood lighting, illuminated treadplates and LED Welcome lamps by Mulliner.

Base price: RM743,900
Price with Options: RM1,061,000
*Prices are without duties, taxes and registration


Volkswagen expands service offerings

 Mukhriz (right) signing a plaque in conjunction with the upgraded Volkswagen 3S centre in Langkawi. With him are Keller (second from left).

PETALING JAYA: Volkswagen Malaysia announced that Goh Brothers Motor SdnBhd has upgraded its service centre in Langkawi to a 3S (Sales, Service and Spare Parts) facility. Goh Brothers Motor SdnBhd (Volkswagen Langkawi) yesterday launched its new and upgraded 3S facility in the presence of Datuk Seri Mukhriz Mahathir, the Chief Minister of Kedah.

Operated and wholly owned by Goh Brothers Motor Sdn Bhd, the upgrade stems from the dealer’s core pursuit to strive for excellence in professional customer service.

The new 3S dealership,located in Pusat Bandar Kuah, will provide customers with exceptional mobility solutions from Volkswagen Malaysia’s product portfolio, alongside servicing and repairs for maintenance.

“We are very excited to announce the launch of the new Volkswagen Langkawi facility,” said Armin Keller, Managing Director, Volkswagen Group Malaysia.

“This new facility is a testament to our commitment to the market and compliments our promise, ‘Always by your side’, that showcases the journey with our customers throughout the entire product life cycle. We are glad that our esteemed partner, Goh Brothers Motors, is helping us bring this promise to life by extending our brand experience from the mainland to the island.”

The single-storey 9,370 sq ft Volkswagen Langkawi dealership comprise of 3 service bays, which is able to accommodate up to 5 vehicles. The new Volkswagen Langkawi 3S Centre is additionally furnished and equipped with a service concierge, a lounge, free wireless internet access and complimentary beverages to provide a pleasant and complete customer experience.

Goh Kian Sin, Executive Chairman, Goh Brothers Motor said, “I am confident that the new Volkswagen Langkawi facility will increase customer satisfaction significantly, as the facility now has better infrastructure, tools and capacity to address growing customer needs and preference.

Good products should always go hand-in-hand with good service and our new facility is well-equipped to provide the best, complete Volkswagen experience.”

Established in 2007, Goh Brothers Motor Sdn Bhd currently operates 7 dealerships in Malaysia, with emphasis in the northern region – the root of its provenance. The breakdown of dealerships consists of 2 in Penang, 2 in Kedah and 3 in Perak. Additionally, Goh Brothers also plans to launch a 4S Centre (sales, service, spare parts and spray paint) in Batu Caves this year.


Ferrari will expand its lineup of road cars, but not too much

                SAN FRANCISCO: Ferrari NV will expand sales of easier-driving grand touring cars, but will not try to chase rival Porsche’s annual sales volume, Ferrari chairman John Elkann told an audience of classic car enthusiasts gathered at this storied golf resort on the Pacific coast.

Elkann also reiterated that Fiat Chrysler Automobiles NV, of which he is chairman, remains open to opportunities to combine with other automakers, but is positioned to remain independent.

Fiat Chrysler in May proposed a merger with French automaker Renault SA, but the deal fell apart after the French government intervened and Elkann withdrew the proposed merger.

Fiat Chrysler chief executive Mike Manley sent the same message to Renault and other would-be partners earlier this month.

Elkann visited Pebble Beach, 190km south of here, during the annual Concours d’Elegance, during which wealthy collectors bring some of the world’s rarest vintage automobiles to be admired — and sold — and premium manufacturers showcase exotic new models.

Ferrari is best known for flashy, high performance sports cars. Among fans of vintage Ferraris, more understated GT, or grand touring, cars from the 1960s, some with seating for four people, are among the most popular models on auction blocks and at enthusiast events. GT cars were designed to be comfortable on longer road trips.

Elkann hinted Ferrari will unveil a new GT type car in November. Ferrari has said previously that about 40% of its total sales could come from GT cars by 2022, up from 32% now.

Ferrari has outlined plans to expand revenue to €5 billion (RM23bil) by 2022 from €3.4 billion (RM15.7bil) in 2017. The company has said it plans to add a model called the Purosangue to compete with a growing stable of sport utility vehicles wearing premium sports car brands, such as the Lamborghini Urus.

Rival Porsche AG, a unit of Volkswagen AG, has expanded its sales to more than 250,000 sports cars and sport utility vehicles annually. Elkann said Ferrari is not aiming for Porsche’s level of sales.


Caltex Fuel Your School Programme creates positive impact for over  10,000 students

                PETALING JAYA: Chevron Malaysia Limited, which carries the retail brand Caltex, successfully completed its annual Caltex Fuel Your School programme (Caltex FYS) in partnership with MyKasih Foundation this year benefiting over 10,000 students collectively in both Pahang and Kelantan schools.

In its fifth consecutive year, Caltex FYS continues to support teacher and students by ensuring high need schools get the opportunity of quality education via enhanced learning materials and resources.

Caltex FYS is also an approach to deliver inspiring classroom sessions for students to further promote the learning of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics subjects.

“At Chevron, we believe that education is extremely important for an individual and the community as it provides the necessary tools and knowledge to succeed in life.

"The Caltex Fuel Your School programme aims to do just that, by partnering with local communities, governments and non-profit groups to expand learning opportunities and support social and economic development, which is part of Chevron’s global “Energy for Learning Initiative”, said Chevron Malaysia Limited’s Country Chairman, Shahid Ahmed.

He continued by saying, “I would like to applaud everyone’s effort, including our partner, MyKasih Foundation for making Caltex FYS this year yet another success and hope that we continue to benefit more students and teachers in more states.”

This year, out of 49 classroom projects funded for Pahang and Kelantan, Sekolah Jenis Kebangsaan (Tamil) Raub, Pahang and SMK Tanjong Lumpur, Pahang struck the most wins.

“I believe in empowering students and encouraging fun learning. As soon as I heard of the Caltex Fuel Your School programme, I encouraged the teachers here to work together in putting a proposal for the benefit of the school and the students. Having won the project funds, we are now able to improve our computer lab and support the development of autonomous robotics software and accelerate the learning of our engineering module.

"We are all so thankful for this opportunity, but more importantly, the students have been given a motivational boost to learn,” expressed Mickey Koh Meng Sei, a STEM Volunteer from Sekolah Jenis Kebangsaan (Tamil) Raub, who helped to coordinate the classroom project submissions for the teachers.

Throughout July 2016 to October 15, 2016, Caltex contributed RM 2 for every purchase of RON95 or RON97 using the Caltex Journey Card at participating Caltex service stations in Kelantan and Pahang.

A total sum of RM250,000 worth of funds were generated and used to fund eligible classroom projects in high-need schools in the form of learning materials for Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics subjects.

From the RM250,000 funds raised, RM18,000 was awarded to students from Sekolah Jenis Kebangsaan (Cina) Chung Ching, Kuantan under the MyKasih ‘Love My School’ student bursary programme. Through this, daily school meals and learning materials for students will be supported for one year in 2017.

Present at the closing ceremony of the Caltex Fuel Your School programme, Trustee of MyKasih Foundation, Siti Khairon Shariff said, “We are honoured to once again work together with Caltex to continue to make a difference in classrooms of public schools and support communities who are in need and empower them through education.

"A big thank you to all parties involved who made this year another success. Caltex Fuel Your School programme is indeed a reflection of community support done right.”

MyKasih Foundation has been working hand-in- hand with Chevron Malaysia to determine classroom projects that deserve to be funded through the Caltex Fuel Your School programme. MyKasih also guides teachers to frame classroom project proposals towards the Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics subjects.


IBM links French rail, BMW sports cars to widen Watson’s appeal

                NEW YORK: IBM’s artificial intelligence arm is striking deals with the French railway to help it head off costly repairs, and with the world’s largest car-parts maker Bosch to create cars and appliances that can self-order worn parts.

The deals with France’s SNCF national rail system, Robert Bosch GmbH, and payment processor Visa Inc, were announced alongside the opening of IBM’s US$200mil (RM890.50mil) global headquarters for industrial applications of software in Munich, and are part of a push to spread its Watson computing service in Europe.

Watson and IBM’s US$18bil (RM80.14bil) “cognitive computing” group are a rare bright spot amid a years-long slump in sales and earnings, and the company is counting on the unit as its long-term growth driver. IBM has called Watson a connector across all its services and software and has announced a large number of deals to build out Watson-related projects.

The French railway is monitoring 200 Parisian trains at a time for problems with doors or air conditioning. Bosch plans to use Watson as part of cloud-computing software that can schedule software updates for cars or let washing machines automatically reorder detergent. Visa and IBM are teaming up to let Internet-connected products process payments, so a car owner could schedule a service appointment or a runner could order new shoes right from a fitness device.

A dozen BMW engineers are also working with International Business Machines Corp on site to outfit the auto-maker’s US$138,000 (RM614,445) i8 hybrid sports car with controls that respond to a drivers’ voices and make recommendations for route changes and stops based on fuel levels and the weather.

“It’s an area of great interest to us: this relationship of people to cars, people to homes, to hospitals,” said Bret Greenstein, vice-president for the Watson Internet of Things platform at IBM. “The last two years was exploring, pilots, kicking tyres, just as many of us did in the early days of the Web. This is the year of deployment and getting use and value out of IoT.”

The Internet of Things – shorthand for a world of cars, appliances and other objects that communicate about their status to head off repairs, give users timely information or automatically order spare parts, comes against the backdrop of Germany’s Industry 4.0 initiative, meant to digitise the country’s automotive and manufacturing base and better position it against Silicon Valley competitors.

Locating in Munich gives IBM and its rivals proximity to Siemens AG, BMW AG and Audi, and large insurers including Munich Reand Munich Re. IBM plans to have 1,000 developers, researchers and business staff at its new skyscraper digs in the city’s north.

It’s not alone. Microsoft opened a city-centre office last September with about 1,900 workers. Google last year opened a development centre near the historic Marienplatz.

SAP SE, the German software giant, is also spending €2bil (RM9.35bil) by 2021 to develop tools for connecting factories, ships, trucks and wind farms.

“We’re not an industrial engineering company like a GE or a Siemens,” said John Kelly, senior vice president for cognitive solutions at IBM. “We’re an IT company so our clients view is as a partner and not a competitor. We’re viewed very much as a neutral player.”


Hino Malaysia and Truck Solutions launch new Hino 3S centre in West Port

                PORT KLANG: Hino Motors Sales (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd has appointed Truck Solutions Sdn Bhd, as the operator of its newest authorised Sales, Service, and Spare Parts (3S) centre.

Strategically situated in West Port area, this new 3S centre aims to provide total support to Hino’s customers, especially those operating in logistics and transport services.

The centre was launched by Hino managing director Atsushi Uchiyama and Truck Solutions executive director, Edward Tan Kim Siong, witness by management members from both companies.

In line with Hino's support towards its customers’ business, the company always aims to be customers’ best business partners by providing best-fit products and total support.

Its fundamental of “Care for Customer” is not solely covering our customers themselves, it is indeed related to customers’ operations.

Looking at the high numbers of UIO (Units in Operation) in Port Klang, Hino has set its business plan to open at least one 3S centre in West Port as it is a multi-cargo terminal located in Pulau Indah and handles all types of cargos in containers, breakbulk, dry bulk, liquid bulk, vehicles (roll-on roll-off) and other conventional cargos.

Uchiyama said Port Klang was listed as the company's targeted area as it is the main trade route for import and export in Malaysia and there are high numbers of trucks passing in and out of this area.

 From left: Hino Malaysia director Ahmad Yasmin Yahya, Uchiyama, Tan and Truck Solutions executive director TS Lee.

“We see the need for authorized 3S centres or one-stop solutions to support customers as well as to ensure the quality of Hino products and promise genuine parts supplies.”

The new 3S centre’s facility is equipped with 27 service bays which include 10 trailer bays that fit 20-ft and 40-ft trailers, and two tyre bays that provide tyre-related works.

Besides its vast space area up to 1.5 acres, customers can also enjoy a variety of amenities such as comfortable lounges, complimentary Wi-Fi services, free flow of refreshments and beverages.

Truck Solutions also offers convenient services for customers including service maintenance and repair, weekly Puspakom arrangement, on-site inspection, and 24-hour towing truck services.

Formerly known as VM Fleet Management Sdn Bhd, Truck Solutions was established since 2007.

The company has been in heavy-duty prime mover services since 2007 and provided one-stop service solutions to haulage industry for more than 14 years.

Truck Solutions started its partnership with Hino in 2020 as the first Hino Approved Service Centre (HASO) and has proven of its good track of service record, it is now appointed as one of Hino Authorised 3S Centre.

Uchiyama said aside from its strategic location in Port Klang, Truck Solutions has more than 10 years in truck servicing and their facilities meet Hino's requirement to be Hino authorised 3S centre.

“We do not hesitate to appoint them as our new 3S, based on their excellent record track as our HASO in past two years,” he said.

By strengthening Hino's presence in the area, Truck Solutions will increase Hino’s 700 Series Prime Mover sales with delivery of high-quality products and excellent services and to keep improving customer satisfaction and increase sales as well.

The new 3S centre is located at Lot 148, Jalan Sungai Penang 4/8, Taman Perindustrian Indah, 42920 Pulau Indah, Selangor.

Operating hours are:

Monday to Friday - 8.30am to 5.30pm,

Saturday - 8.30am to 4.30pm.

For any inquiries, call the direct telephone number 03-3101 5101.