Porsche race car engineer joins Apple, says source

Hitzinger is believed to be working for Apple.SAN FRANCISCO: Apple poached the technical director of Porsche's race car program earlier this year, a company source said on Friday, hiring a project manager who helped engineer the sports car company's victorious return to the Le Mans endurance race.

Alexander Hitzinger is the latest auto specialist to be recruited by technology giant Apple as it explores building its own car.

Earlier this month, Apple urged regulators not to impose too many restrictions on developers of self-driving cars.

Hitzinger could not be reached for comment. The move was first reported by Germany's Manager Magazin.

Officially, Porsche only confirmed Hitzinger had left the luxury carmaker in the spring. Apple was not immediately available for comment.

Hitzinger helped Porsche, owned by Volkswagen, return to endurance racing and to develop the 919 hybrid sports car from scratch, much in the same way Apple is now looking into building its own vehicle.

Porsche's new race car won Le Mans and the endurance racing world championship in both 2015 and 2016 using largely unproven technology, which beat far more established rivals.

Hitzinger helped hire and build a development team and organisational structure at Porsche, expanding from ten employees to over 150.

Hitzinger's LinkedIn profile states he left Porsche in March and joined a “technology company" in San Francisco as an engineering executive in April.

Hitzinger is quoted by Manager Magazin as saying he wanted to do something "which has a significant and direct impact on society", but did not confirm he now worked at Apple.


Lexus ES arrives from RM260k

                KUALA LUMPUR: Lexus Malaysia has expanded its line-up with the introduction of the highly anticipated ES model in three variants – the ES 250 Premium, ES 250 Luxury and the ES 300h hybrid.

Priced on-the-road with GST without insurance, the Premium variant costs RM259,200, the Luxury model at RM278,600 and the finally the range-topping ES 300h hybrid at RM355,100.All three cars use a 2.5-litre engine that will provide three driving modes of Eco, Normal and Sport, but only the 300h gets an additional electric vehicle (EV) mode.

The engine produces 178bhp at 6,000rpm and 235Nm of torque at 4,100rpm, while mated to a six-speed automatic gearbox.

Although the 300h uses a 2.5-litre engine as well, that’s mated to an e-CVT gearbox, it is 22bhp and 22Nm down on combustion power - meaning it only produces 155bhp at 5,700rpm and 213Nm of torque at 4,500rpm.

But thanks to a 105kW electric motor, the 300h’s combined output gets bumped up to 198bhp.

As standard, all variants rolls on 17-inch wheels with 215/55 series tyres and get automatic wipers, LED daytime running lights as well as LED headlights for high and low beams - Premium variant gets Halogens for high beam.

The interior is upholstered in leather and is accented by genuine Birdseye Maple wood, along with an eight-inch multimedia display that comes equipped with navigation (Premium – without navigation),

It also comes equipped with powered rear window sunshades, an eight-speaker Lexus Display Audio, but the 300h gets a 15-speaker sound system from mark Levinson instead.

Furthermore, the ventilated front seats get 10-way power adjustability, but the Premium variant gets memory function for the driver only, while the Luxury and 300h extends the memory to both driver and passenger.

In terms of safety, all ES variants get 10 airbags, antilock braking system with brake assist, vehicle stability control, traction control, electronic brake force distribution, tyre pressure warning system and hill-start assist.

The list continues with reverse camera, blind-spot monitor and finally rear cross-traffic alert.

Each Lexus ES gets a three-year or 100,000km, whichever comes first, but the 300h specifically gets an eight-year warranty for its battery.

Lastly, it comes available in six specific colours of Sonic Quartz, Platinum Silver Metallic, Graphite Black, Red MC CS, Amber CS and Sonic Titanium.

“Order taking for the new Lexus ES began in late July 2015 and more than 100 units orders have been received to date with the Lexus ES 250 Luxury variant being the most popular model,” said UMW Toyota Motor president Datuk Ismet Suki – JAY WONG


Personalised video technology in car-buying process gaining traction

                LONDON: Personalised video technology is now a key part of the car-buying and maintenance process to such an extent that leading provider, CitNOW, is now broadcasting more daily video than the BBC.

The use of personalised video technology has led to a sharp rise in the amount and the quality of video being demanded by consumers, who are enjoying the increased ability to consider new cars remotely and control the car-buying process without having to step foot in a showroom.

At their peak, CitNOW’s servers upload 21,000 videos – more than 500 hours’ worth – every day and the company is closing in on half a million videos being created using its intuitive app software every month.

With every CitNOW video watched more than once, the firm is effectively broadcasting more than 800 hours of video – the equivalent of 33 full-time 24-hour TV channels – every day. The BBC currently runs 27 channels, not all of them round-the-clock.

Overall, 4,400 CitNOW product subscriptions are now live in 2,750 dealerships and the company works with 89 of the Top 100 dealer groups in Britain. More than 50% of the British dealer network now uses video technology.

In Britain, CitNOW’s relationship with the motoring public is already shifting from video as a novelty factor, with consumers now rating the quality of videos they receive.


Make child car seats mandatory earlier than 2019, say parents

                PETALING JAYA: Parents have urged the Government to make child car seats mandatory earlier, instead of in 2019.

Dayna Chan Sook Har, a mother of a 20-month-old, said many people did not realise that unrestrained children could easily get hurt or die even in minor traffic accidents.

“As a mum, it is quite sad to see all those child deaths due to car accidents. When the law is implemented, there won’t be this many,” she said.

Chan is uncompromising when using child car seats, even on short journeys.

Chew Wei Sern, 31, said if it was compulsory for adults to wear safety belts, then children should not be exempted from equivalent safety measures as they were even more vulnerable.

“The Government could look into subsidising the cost for certain car seats to make them more affordable,” he added.

Teh Huey Ching, who always drives her 17-month-old nephew around, said having the matter codified would ensure parents were not lax with strapping their children down.

“Sometimes, the toddler refuses to sit in the seat, and parents don’t have time to force the child, and they give in. The law would force the parents to train the child right from the start to get used to the child seat,” she explained.

Kribashini Sateyen Selen said she would always use the child seat for her two-year old child.

“At least with a child seat, the children get to sit comfortably and also have their safety ensured,” she said.

Nazri Muhammad, 39, said that while child car seats might be expensive, the child’s life was even more precious.

“If it is too expensive you can always buy used ones,” he said.

On Saturday, Datuk Seri Liow Tiong Lai dismissed claims that the ministry would be enforcing the use of child seats in 2016.

He said the seats cost from RM750 to RM4,000 each, and is a burden to many parents.

"We understand it is expensive, that is why we are not enforcing it yet. However, the ministry encourages their use as they keep children safe," he said.

Liow had also said rear seat passengers should start to "belt-up".

The Transport Minister revealed the only 9% of passengers sitting in the rear fasten their seatbelts.

"We have implemented it since 2009 but according to the Malaysian Institute of Road Safety Research (Miros), only seven to nine percent use the rear seat belts," he said.

To ensure passengers practice safe driving habits this coming festive season, the Road Safety Department and the Royal Malaysian Police force will start enforcing the rear seat belt ruling, said Liow.


New 11-seater Kia Grand Carnival launched

                PETALING JAYA: Naza Kia Malaysia has launched the new Kia Grand Carnival MPV priced at RM179,888 (on-the-road without insurance) which can carry up to 11 occupants, putting it in competition with the 11-seater Hyundai Starex and 10-seater Maxus G10.

The  Grand Carnival was previously a three-row eight-seater.

This model was designed to maximise space through flexibility with the Multiflex seats variation which allows an adjustable seating layout to meet the needs of the modern family.

The new Grand Carnival is powered by a 2.2-litre TCI diesel engine, which produces 200PS at 3,800rpm and maximum torque of 440Nm from 1,750rpm and is paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission.

It comes with five years' manufacturer's warranty and the colour options are Snow White Pearl, Silky Silver, Aurora Black Pearl and Panthera Metal.

The MPV rides on 18-inch clean silver alloy wheels wrapped in 235/60 tyres giving the large vehicle a better grip and a smoother ride on the road.

Its exclusive look on the front also features the halogen projector headlamps and halogen projector fog lamps.

The MPV features power sliding doors on both sides of the vehicle which can be opened manually or automatically with just the flick of a switch, a 3.5-inch mono LCD cluster meter and shark-fin antenna.

The MPV brings more value and convenience to families being equipped with new upgrades such as a new roof rack, automatic windows with safety lock, 7.0-inch touchscreen HMI (human-machine interface) which houses Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, voice recognition at the steering wheel control and an additional USB charging  port on its fourth row.

“The new Grand Carnival offers dynamic Multiflex seating configurations whether it is for 6, 7, 8 or 11 occupants which make it ideal for those who are looking for more flexible space and capacity, be it having more passengers on board or traveling with their luggage,” said Group CEO, Automotive Group, Naza Corporation Holdings, Datuk Nik Hamdam Nik Hassan.

“We are proud to be bringing in the new Grand Carnival, one of Malaysia’s most recognisable MPVs which has just received an upgrade to provide greater flexibility in the cabin space, setting a new benchmark in the MPV segment for the experience and comfort it can bring to large families," he said.


March 17-23: RON97 petrol up 25 sen

                PETALING JAYA: The retail price of RON97 petrol will increase by 25 sen a litre from March 17 to 23, while the price of RON95 and diesel remains unchanged.

The Finance Ministry, in a statement today, said the retail price of RON97 petrol would increase from RM3.75 to RM4.00 per litre, while RON95 and diesel remained at RM2.05 and RM2.15 per litre, respectively.

"To protect consumers from the effects of rising oil prices in the global market, the government has retained the retail price of RON95 petrol at the ceiling price of RM2.05 per liter and diesel at RM2.15 per litre, even though the actual market price of both products has surpassed the ceiling price,” the statement read.


2019 Geneva Motor Show: Honda e Prototype concept

                GENEVA: Honda’s new urban electric vehicle debuted at the 2019 Geneva International Motor Show in the form of the Honda e Prototype.

This new model leads on from the brand’s highly acclaimed 2017 Urban EV Concept, and is a key part of Honda’s “Electric Vision” strategy for the European region.

The car’s advanced charging port is integrated centrally in the bonnet for ease of use from either side of the car, with LED lighting visible through the glass cover to welcome the driver and inform of the battery charging status.

The Honda e Prototype will deliver a range of over 200km and a ‘fast charge’ functionality of 80% battery charge in 30 minutes, making it ideal for everyday commuting.

On the road, the driving dynamics are focused on delivering a fun and emotive experience, with the powerful electric motor driven through rear wheels.


New Infiniti QX80 makes world premiere in Dubai

DUBAI: Infiniti is looking to claim a larger share of the luxury SUV market with the all-new QX80. Officially unveiled today, the first day of the Dubai International Motor Show, it comes with a choice of seven or eight seats, with a naturally aspirated 5.6-litre V8 under its menacing hood and takes luxury air travel and growing competition at the highest end of the premium off-roader market as its inspiration — inside and out.

"Our flagship SUV features a high-quality, hand-crafted interior, creating a driver-centric, passenger-minded space for inclusive, modern luxury travel," said Christian Meunier, Infiniti Global Division Vice President at its unveiling.

If a car company is serious about rivaling the likes of the Range Rover Autobiography, Volvo XC90, the Mercedes GLS and the upcoming BMW X7, then the first potential clients to target are those in the Gulf states. It's demand from this corner of the world that has led to Bentley and Rolls-Royce moving into the SUV market. And one look inside the new Infiniti shows how confident it is of courting customers.

The fit, finish and choice of interior materials is on a par with anything any European company is currently offering but details such as the quilted leather that adorns the seats have been given a pleasing Japanese twist. However, Infiniti has also managed to avoid the mistake often made by Asian car companies of overcomplicating the console and dashboard with numerous buttons, dials and switches.

And even though this is a huge car — it's over 5m long and a touch over 2m wide — with only one thirsty engine choice, Infiniti has also managed to make it practical on some levels. For instance, the interior surfaces are treated with a soil-resistant hydrophilic coating for buyers with younger children worried about their offspring leaving marks and stains on the leather seats.

For the same reason, there's an entertainment system override function. This allows the driver and front passenger to limit use of the rear seat entertainment systems or to monitor the content being streamed.

As for on- and off-road performance, the car is available with two-wheel drive or all-wheel drive and despite looking very tall, much of its height is an optical design illusion, achieved by grille and light positioning and body creases. This has enabled the company to keep the actual centre of gravity low enough to hold the road well.

Meanwhile active driver aids also help to keep the car under control and to actively avoid potential accidents. "[The car] offers drivers greater levels of confidence at the wheel, with a suite of drive-assist technologies that empower the driver. Despite the car's size, the 2018 QX80 is easy to drive with full confidence," said Infiniti product strategy vice-president François Bancon.


BMW i4 EV coming in 2021, 700km range expected

The BMW i Vision Dynamics concept.
PARIS: The Paris Motor Show has been jam-packed with exciting announcements from car manufacturers visiting from across the globe, and BMW was no exception. CEO Harald Krüger opened the BMW segment with news we've been waiting for since March: the BMW i4 will be launching in 2021.

BMW has quite the line-up of fully-electric vehicles on the way; in total, five will be available by 2021. The i3 is already available for purchase, the MINI Electric will be coming next year, the iX3 will be coming in 2020, and the iNext and i4 will both arrive in 2021.

According to BMWBlog, despite the iNext allegedly having the most tech of all the EV models - translating into a great deal of anticipation associated with its launch - the public will most likely be more excited about the i4, an option that's much more affordable.

Of the little information about the i4 that we have been provided with, AutoCar noted that Krüger confirmed that the model will be lightweight, thanks to its materials, have a driving range of 700km and will be far from one of the few PHEVs on sale by 2025; he claims the group will have over 25 PHEV models available next to 12 pure EVs within seven years.

Like AutoCar, BMWBlog also predicts that this model will be an all-electric version of the 4 Series Gran Coupe, perhaps with some inspiration from the i Vision Dynamics Concept car - an electric four-door coupe - which was on display at the 2017 Los Angeles Auto Show.

"In 2022-2025, there will be a quick ramp-up that we think will reflect the market and which is anyway a necessity to hit the emissions targets we are being set," Autocar reported Krüger predicting.

Right now, it may be trendy to go electric, but in a couple years, it may be essential.


Covid 'pingdemic' hits UK carmakers

                LONDON: Production across Britain's automotive sector has fallen dramatically due to staff shortages, as workers self-isolate under government Covid-19 tracing rules, an industry body said on Thursday.

The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) said up to 30 percent of workers in some companies were being forced to stay at home because they were "pinged" by the Covid app.

The state-run National Health Service said record numbers were contacted by the app in the week to July 21, identifying them as having been in close contact with someone who has later tested positive.

Businesses across the country have said the situation is causing staff shortages and hitting trade, even as most legal restrictions were lifted in England since July 19.

The SMMT said only 69,079 cars had been built in factories over last month — the worst June for the sector since 1953.

The massive slump underlined a "turbulent" six months of car production during the pandemic, the SMMT said, which also included the knock-on effect of a global chip shortage and the impact of new post-Brexit trading rules with Europe.

"While the UK automotive industry continues to suffer the effects of the global pandemic, with first half year production down significantly and a tough few months looming, the sector has the capability to recover," said SMMT chief executive Mike Hawes.

He called on the government to bring forward an Aug 16 target to exempt fully vaccinated adults from the self-isolating rules under a "test to release scheme".


The Hunter edition of Aston Martin Vantage arrives from RM880,000

                KUALA LUMPUR: Aston Martin Kuala Lumpur has introduced an Aston Martin Vantage customised unit – The Hunter edition.

Named after the characteristics of a hunter – aggressive, intelligent and assertive – The Hunter edition is priced from RM880,000 (excluding duties and taxes) with five years warranty and servicing plan.

Meanwhile, the regular Vantage is available from a base price of RM678,000.

The Vantage name is synonymous with intensified performance and the most demanding racers.

Since 1950 “Vantage” has signified enhanced dynamism and unrivalled visceral thrills.

While Vantage has made significant advancements, echoes of the magnificent bloodline can still be seen from sculptured forms to create an athletic predatory stance with muscular flanks and broad haunches expressing agility and dynamism of the car.

The Hunter edition gets the choice of the exterior paint colour and options inspired by the vibe of the hunter.

Grey symbolises intelligence while the darker finish on the front grille and other exterior options (bonnet vents, mirror caps, roof panel, window surround finisher, rear diffuser Insert and blades) raises the aggressive appearance and creates a stealthier look.

In fact, this is the first Vantage with China Grey in Malaysia.

This customisation unit features the new 21-inch wheels design in Satin Black to complete the sporting luxury appearance.

The Hunter edition also gets the latest features such as vanned front grille and bonnet vents, which can be found on Aston Martin Vantage F1® Edition.

The interior combining luxury materials with a driver focused cockpit to provide a truly immersive experience.

Controls like the new designed sport-orientated gearshift paddles are optimally positioned.

Likewise, the gear selection buttons are uniquely placed in the centre console, with the Aston Martin Audio System, 8-inch LCD screen and integrated satellite navigation all impressively reconfigured around the driver.

While duotone environment, the mix of Onyx Black and Chancellor Red, suggests an exciting pleasure of driving related to the heritage of sports cars.

Adding an emotive twist, the interior jewellery package – Dark Satin Chrome finish visually removes the highlights to create a darker jewelled ambiance to Vantage’s interior environment.

Aside from The Hunter edition, Aston Martin Kuala Lumpur is awaiting the arrival of another unit of highly personalised Vantage vaned grille series for retail soon.

For details, call +60 3 2163 1196 or email astonmartinkl.enquiries@wearnes.com.


Coming to grips with Yokohama Advan dB V552

We tested Yokohama’s latest Advan dB series and checked out its ‘silent running’ credentials in Thailand.

Yokohama Rubber is extremely proud of its "silent" tyre, the Advan dB; thus labelling it ‘dB’ (decibel) was deemed the perfect reflection of its capabilities.

The Advan range was originally introduced in 1978 as a performance tyre, with its development cultivated through participation in a variety of motor sport events.

As you might have guessed, the Advan name is adapted from the word ‘Advance’, which in Yokohama’s perception means to ‘move forward’ and it believes that describes the profile of this tyre range.

With market demands changing accordingly to the evolvement of vehicles to meet new driving needs, Yokohama chose to introduce a silent variant to this flagship Advan range called the dB in 2011. This was the Advan dB V551.

Aimed at the higher middle class to premium cars, Yokohama found good market response to this new silent running tyre.

With more hybrid cars and EVs (electric vehicles) coming on stream as well as cars becoming increasingly quieter on the move generally, the call for a more silent tyre grew louder and louder.

Using the DNA of the V551, development of its successor, the V552, took three years and Yokohama believes it has improved the Advan dB so much that the latest tyre is hailed as the most silent tyre ever.

This does not compromise its other area of performance as the Advan dB V552 is said to provide ‘excellent’ safety performance and fuel economy and be a "premium match for premium vehicles".

Yokohama is also expanding the tyre size line-up to cater to the growing pool of vehicles, including SUVs (sport utility vehicles), which would require a silent tyre (it ranged from 155/65 R14 to 245/40 R20).

Production of the Advan dB V551, however, would continue for the smaller sizes that cater to the existing vehicle range that are still in demand.

The changes that went into the Advan dB V552 were approached from many areas such that it is more than a mere evolvement of the old.

While the first version is lauded for its excellent comfort performance (silent and mild ride), good handling and wet performance, the new targets were a softer ride feeling in heavy-weight vehicles like the Mercedes-Benz S-Class, fuel efficiency and product freshness (since this tyre model is seven years old and older than the other Yokohama model series).

For the improvement in silent performance, the latest Advan dB V552 comes with a new tread pattern with ‘beautiful’ small block design, new structure with high quality parts and a new profile.

To achieve better wet performance and good fuel efficiency, Yokohama developed an all-new special compound as well as adopted a fuel-efficient compound on the sidewall that suppresses heat generation.

Similarly, the sidewall is reinforced with another layer to attain firm handling while providing ride comfort for a ‘heavy weight’ vehicle.

The end result is a 30% quieter tyre in road noise, 20% quieter in pattern noise (sound generated by the tread pattern), 8% improvement in wet stability, 6% in wet grip, five per cent in ride comfort, among others.

We had the opportunity to feel all these improvements at Yokohama’s Tire Test Centre of Asia, a sprawling 320-ha (800 acres) facility near Rayong, Thailand.

This newly improved tyre testing ground is said to be Yokohama’s largest in the region, second only to the one it operates in Japan.

It has 41km of varying road surfaces and 100,000 sq m of multipurpose terrain to put tyres fully to the test. We were to gauge the new Advan dB V552 in four routines; a quiet trial, a drive to feel the tyre in several performance areas, a wet circle experience and a handling session.

The quiet trial involved two Toyota Camrys; one fitted with the Advan dB V552 and the other with the older V551.

We started with the new before jumping into the Camry with the old; initial hearing response were mixed as we felt the new was somewhat quieter on the rough road surface and less quieter on the smooth road surface pattern run.

It was in the third run when we hopped back to the Camry with the new V552 that we could tell it was decidedly quieter than the old; perhaps we could attuned our sensory perception better after establishing the respective sound levels in the earlier runs.

The second routine was a feel of the V552 in a Honda Accord; this began with a braking session on wet tarmac at 80kph, followed by a wet slalom at 50kph, a 40kph lane change and a quicker lane change before doing a complete roundabout at the finishing stretch.

This was done over two laps to give us a better feel in experiencing the qualities of the new tyre in the respective disciplines; it did work well to expectations in that respect. The wet circle routine was done again in the two Camrys but in a different section of the sprawling test facility.

We started with the Advan dB V551 and were given free rein on speed negotiating the wet roundabout. We could hardly hold the car at 50kph, managing 51kph at best, as the car kept wanting to go straight (understeer).

Taking to the same course in the V552-shod Camry brought on a more confident poise as we could drive at a faster speed, with the Toyota holding its line nicely at 55kph (we clocked the highest speed for the group at 56.2kph).

The handling aspect was done in a Mercedes-Benz C 350 e hybrid and while there were a few tight corners taken at 50kph or so, there was a good variety of corners to push the Mercedes up to almost 100kph through a few bends.

The Advan dB V552 handled the pace well, albeit squealing some as we pushed a bit harder than usual through a few progressively tightening curves.

After all that, we had to give the Advan dB V552 the thumbs-up as an all-round performance tyre that was "dramatically silent".

The crème de la crème of the day was a gymkhana in a turbocharged Honda Civic shod with the performance oriented Advan Fleva V701.

This was a timed trial taking the Civic through a slalom course, a U-turn, a lane-change manoeuvre and a roundabout, covering two laps per run. Each of us did a familiarisation run before two timed trials; hitting a cone costs two seconds.

Despite hitting a cone, we improved our pace significantly on the second timed run to come in second quickest and having fully enjoyed driving the Civic with those Yokohama tyres under those conditions.

The Yokohamas gripped well when driven prudently at a gallop and it is little wonder that Yokohama is now supplying tyres (Advan Sport V105) to BMW as an OE (original equipment) item for the new X3.


Automakers seek delays, exemptions to India's planned new rules for parts, say sources

People walking past parked vehicles in a parking lot during a nationwide Covid-19 lockdown in New Delhi in May. — Reuters
NEW DELHI: Foreign automakers are seeking delays and exemptions to India’s planned new quality rules for imported auto parts, arguing the regulations will increase costs, hurt sales and disrupt supply chains, sources with direct knowledge of the matter told Reuters.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is keen to reduce imports to boost local manufacturing to make India more self-sufficient and enable it to play a bigger role in the global supply chain. That said, the move is seen mainly aimed at slashing the amount of lower-quality imports from China.

“There is short term pain but there is long term gain,” Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal told an auto convention last week, saying India has become a dumping ground for low-quality goods by not having standards similar to other countries.

New rules mandating stricter quality checks have been flagged in stages for various auto parts since early this year and tighter regulations for wheel rims could be introduced as soon as October, according to a draft government notice.

All automakers will have to comply, but foreign premium brands such as Daimler’s Mercedes-Benz, BMW and Audi will suffer most as they have the highest ratio of imported parts, four auto executives told Reuters.

“It’s just an additional compliance burden and will not lead to higher local production because the volumes for luxury are too small to achieve economies of scale,” said one of the executives.

The sources declined to be identified, citing sensitive negotiations with the government.

Luxury carmakers account for less than 1% of India’s annual passenger car sales in terms of volume although they contribute roughly 10% in terms of revenue.

Executives from premium German brands as well as Volkswagen AG, Ford Motor Co and Toyota Motor Corp have held several rounds of talks with government officials in recent weeks, sources said.

Martin Schwenk, head of Mercedes-Benz India, said in a statement that additional requirements “will make low volume business unviable”. His company is requesting a “reasonable time line for mid to long term implementation, and exemptions for low volume manufacturers in the short-term.”

Volkswagen Group’s India unit also said in a statement that for premium vehicles it was not possible to localise a “majority of components or spares as the total size of market is marginal.”

Other automakers named in this article did not respond to requests for comment.

Automakers are also lobbying through the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM) which sources say is seeking up to a year to comply with the rules for higher volume vehicles where parts can be sourced locally.

The industry body is also seeking exemptions for low volume cars such as luxury models and for parts which automakers directly import as opposed to parts imported by trading companies and by vendors in the after-sales market, the sources said.

Mercedes’ Schwenk said the company had addressed its concerns through SIAM to relevant authorities and was “hopeful of a positive outcome”.

In addition to those lobbying efforts, Volkswagen, Mercedes and BMW also held a meeting with the German ambassador in New Delhi in July to apprise him of the issue, sources said.

Unwelcome complexity

The draft government notice for wheel rims calls for new rules to go into effect from Oct 1 and includes a requirement that there be an audit of the plant where the rims are made. That would be difficult with current travel restrictions in place due to the coronavirus pandemic, sources said.

It was not clear when the draft notice might be finalised.

To receive a shipment of imported cars or knocked-down car kits an order needs to be placed with global headquarters at least four months in advance, executives at two automakers said.

“If there is no clarity, the headquarters will not take new orders and sales will suffer,” said one of the executives.

From April 1, 2021 similar rules will apply to windshields and other safety glass. In June, India also made it mandatory for companies to get a licence to import certain types of tyres.

“This is against every tenet of ease of doing business,” said a senior auto executive, noting the new rules come at a time when the pandemic has hit revenue and demand, and could discourage further investment in India.

“Much more than the cost it is the complexity which affects the willingness of global companies to continue selling affected car models in India,” the executive said.


New Subaru 3S centre opens in Kuantan

                PETALING JAYA: TC Subaru Sdn Bhd, the exclusive distributor of Subaru vehicles in Malaysia, has introduced a new Subaru 3S centre in Kuantan, owned and operated by dealer-partner Eastern Boxer Sdn Bhd.

It is the second Subaru dealership by Eastern Boxer Sdn Bhd, which also owns and operates Subaru Kuala Terengganu.

The new 3S centre occupies 446m2 located in the city centre. Customers can view the award-winning Forester and XV in the showroom, and consists of the customer lounge, prayer room, service centre and workshop.

With two service bays staffed by trained Subaru technicians, Subaru Kuantan is able to provide service maintenance and repair works for up to 200 vehicles a month.

Customers who wish to grab a bite while waiting for their vehicles can head to popular shopping malls, East Coast Mall and Kuantan City Mall, which are less than 3km away.

Stringent safety measures, such as thorough sanitising of the showroom, display vehicles and work areas, mandatory temperature-taking, availability of hand sanitisers and mandatory use of face masks, are implemented at Subaru Kuantan to curb the spread of COVID-19.

To ensure safe distancing, the dealership is limiting the number of customers in the showroom at any one time.

All vehicles will be thoroughly sanitised before and after each service job, and all test drive vehicles will be thoroughly sanitised before and after each test drive.

Subaru Kuantan is located at 41, Jalan Teluk Sisek, 25050 Kuantan, Pahang and is open daily – from 8.30am to 5.30pm on Mondays to Saturdays and from 10am-5.30pm on Sundays and Public Holidays.

The service centre is open from 8.30am to 5.30pm on Mondays to Saturdays; closed on Sundays and Public Holidays.


Many fear crime rate will go up with darker windows

                PETALING JAYA: While some lauded the move, many ordinary Malaysians are against the new regulations that allow motorists to have their rear windshields and passenger windows tinted as dark as they want.

They took to social media to express their concerns on road safety and crime, while some even urged the government to “think of the children”.

“Kidnappings, especially of children, will be rampant. The rear (windshield) should not be fully tinted,” said Sandy Gov.

Raymond Wong also expressed concerns about children left alone in cars.

“There will be less opportunity for rescue if something happens,” he argued.

Others were concerned about road safety.

“With the increased number of SUVs, it’s very hard to see what’s further up in front or if we are approaching a standstill jam,” said Datsun Kuan on The Star’s Facebook page.

He was referring to the fact that drivers need to see beyond the rear windshield of the car in front of them to correctly judge traffic patterns.

“It’s already bad enough nowadays when you try reversing out in some parking lot when the car next to you has dark windows (in tall 4WDs/MPVs).

“Not being able to see oncoming cars while reversing is really dangerous, yet now it is being legalised?” noted David Palash.

Meanwhile, Lillian Yang had a pertinent point: “It kind of defeats the purpose of a third brake light. You won’t be able to see it on the cars in front of you.”

The responses were mirrored on Twitter.

“It is not too good for a cyclist like me – it would not be possible to see and read the intentions of drivers behind such heavily tinted screens, and it is thus dangerous,” tweeted @HerbWongMY.

Many were also deeply concerned that the new policy would allow more criminal activities to take place, such as car thefts and kidnappings.

Facebook user Chua Teck Boon said, “Criminals will take advantage and drive their stolen (vehicles) to commit crimes!”

However, some Malaysians got fully behind the new ruling, mainly because of the climate here.

One tweet read, “Good, because it’s really hot here in Malaysia,” while another Malaysian said it was a “good move (as) it does not compromise any public safety since only the rear parts are tinted”.

Meanwhile, even the police force are viewing the new car window tinting policy with mixed response.

While the Kuala Lumpur Traffic Investigation and Enforcement Department lauded the move, head office thinks it's a mistake.

Bukit Aman traffic chief Azisman Alias was quoted by Harian Metro on Tuesday as saying that the new ruling would hamper enforcement. Police would not be able to see who is seated at the back, he said, adding that the government had not asked for police views when formulating the policy.

Kuala Lumpur Traffic Investigation and Enforcement Department chief Asst Comm Zulkefly Yahya said the revision to the existing regulations could help prevent car break-ins.

“Thieves will not be able to easily spot items on the back seat and may think twice before breaking into vehicles,” he said.

However, this works both ways. Criminals could take advantage by using such cars to move around stealthily. “They might hide in the back seat in an attempt to be elusive,” said Selangor traffic chief Supt Azman Shari’at.

ACP Zulkefly said a darkened rear windscreen would also help prevent drivers from being blinded by the bluish-white headlights or high beams from the rear.


Jaguar recalls I-Pace EVs due to fire risk in LG batteries

                DETROIT: Jaguar is recalling more than 6,000 I-Pace electric SUVs in the US due to the risk of the high-voltage battery catching fire, and it’s telling owners to park them outdoors.

The recall is the latest in a series of electric vehicle battery recalls because of the potential for fires.

Documents posted last week by the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration say the recall covers all of the SUVs from the 2019 through 2024 model years.

In an email, Jaguar said customers should park away from structures until recall repairs have been completed, and where possible, they should charge outdoors. Owners with questions should contact a dealer if they have any concerns, the company said.

The documents say the vehicle batteries were made by LG Energy Solution, which is under investigation by the NHTSA after five automakers issued recalls due to possible defects that could cause fires or stalling.

The NHTSA opened the probe in April of 2022 covering more than 138,000 vehicles with the South Korean company's lithium-ion batteries.

General Motors, Mercedes-Benz, Hyundai, Stellantis and Volkswagen have issued recalls since February of 2020, most due to internal battery failures that can increase the risk of fires.

The agency said it will write to LG and other companies that might have bought similar batteries to make sure recalls are being done when needed.

LG Energy Solution, based in Seoul, South Korea, noted that Jaguar is updating the battery-managing software on the vehicles while the incidents that led to the recall are being investigated.

"LG Energy Solution continues to closely work with our client Jaguar Land Rover to ensure that the investigation is concluded,” it said in a statement last Thursday.


Lotus relaunches in South Korea

                SEOUL: Lotus has relaunched in South Korea and signed a partnership with premium automotive retailer Kolon Mobility Group (KMG).

KMG is now the official importer and sole distributor of Lotus in South Korea.

A new Lotus Brand Centre in Seoul will open in the fourth quarter of 2023 in the high-fashion district of Gangnam.

An official ‘one-stop shop’ Lotus Service Centre in Ilsandong-gu, Goyang-si will also open in the fourth quarter of 2023.

KMG is launching its business with two Lotus models – the Emira and Eletre.

The Emira is the last mainstream ICE sports car from Lotus, while the all-electric Eletre is a hyper-SUV.

Mike Johnstone, group vice-president and chief commercial officer, Lotus, was in Seoul for the official partnership signing.

He commented: “We’re delighted to be relaunching in South Korea, and doing so with such a renowned and respected partner as Kolon Mobility Group. With premium Lotus performance cars such as the Eletre, Emira and others on the horizon, we are looking forward to engaging with a new audience and new customers in South Korea.”

Lotus was previously in South Korea with a different retail partner.

Lee Kyu-ho, CEO, KMG, said: “We are delighted to be the new partner for Lotus in South Korea. It is an iconic brand which is undergoing an amazing global transformation, and we are looking forward to welcoming customers and fans into our wonderful new Brand Centre.”

The first Lotus cars will arrive in the first and third quarters of 2024 for Emira and Eletre customers respectively.

Johnstone added, "We are confident South Korea will become one of the largest markets in Asia for Lotus, outside of China.”


Volkswagen to dismiss CEO over emissions-cheating scandal, says paper

                FRANKFURT:  Volkswagen will dismiss chief executive Martin Winterkorn, a German newspaper said today, after the carmaker admitted to cheating US vehicles emissions tests and said 11 million of its cars could be affected worldwide.

The Tagesspiegel newspaper, citing unidentified sources on Volkswagen's supervisory board, said Winterkorn would be replaced by Matthias Mueller, the head of the carmaker's Porsche sports car business.

A Volkswagen spokesman described the report as "ridiculous." A spokesman for Porsche said Mueller was currently at a Volkswagen board meeting at its headquarters in Wolfsburg.

Shares in Europe's biggest carmaker plunged almost 20 percent on Monday after it admitted using software that deceived US regulators measuring toxic emissions in some of its diesel cars.

The stock tumbled another 20 percent to a four-year low on Tuesday after the company said it would set aside 6.5 billion euros (US$7.3 billion) in its third-quarter accounts to help cover the costs of the biggest scandal in its 78-year-history, blowing a hole in analysts' profit forecasts.

Volkswagen also warned that sum could rise, adding diesel cars with so-called Type EA 189 engines built into about 11 million Volkswagen models worldwide had shown a "noticeable deviation" in emission levels between testing and road use.

The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) said on Friday Volkswagen could face penalties of up to US$18 billion for cheating emissions tests. The carmaker also faces lawsuits and damage to its reputation that could hit sales.


BMW Malaysia awards for dealers

                KUALA LUMPUR: BMW Group Malaysia recently celebrated the success of its 2014 financial year with the BMW Dealer Awards Night 2014.

The awards ceremony recognized the efforts of the premium automaker’s network of dealers and individuals for their contribution in achieving its highest record breaking year.

“The continued and growing support of our strong dealership network is a key contributor to our robust performance in 2014 where a record of 9,046 BMW, MINI and Motorrad vehicles were delivered,” said BMW Group Malaysia managing director and CEO Alan Harris.

“The success of our respected premium partners throughout our 36 strong dealership network ensures that we are able to grow in tandem with our business growth in Malaysia," added Harris.

The evening witnessed recognition of individual accomplishments through the BMW Vision Club which honoured 18 top achieving individuals in the level of sales advisors and sales managers.

It also distinguished outstanding performances in the areas of aftersales, and celebrated the success of MINI with the MINI Top Sales Advisors Award which was presented to Jimmy Lim Boon Hsiung from Ingress Auto Bangsar and Dion Yeong Moon Yee from Wearnes Autohaus Tebrau.

The Best Overall CSI (customer satisfaction index) Score Award was presented in the Gold, Platinum, and Diamond categories to Regas Premium Auto Sarawak, Tian Siang Premium Auto, and Auto Bavaria Kuala Lumpur respectively.


Modenas launches V15 cafe racer, naked NS200 and sporty RS200 from RM6,000

                KUALA LUMPUR: Motosikal Dan Enjin Nasional (Modenas) has partnered with India-based Bajaj Auto Limited (BAL) for their engines and have launched three new motorcycles for the sub-200cc bike market - namely the V15 cafe racer, naked NS200 and RS200 sportbike.

Priced at RM5,989 (including GST) and available in Black/Red or White/Red, the V15 cafe racer uses an air-cooled 149.5cc twin-spark dual-valve single-cylinder DTS-i motor that's fed by a 13-litre fuel tank and produces 12PS at 7,500rpm and 13Nm of torque at 5,500rpm.

With a wet weight of 136kg (the lightest of the trio), the V15 has a wheelbase of 1,315mm and has a ground-clearance of 165mm, while measuring 2,044mm-long, 750mm-wide and 1,070mm-tall.

While rolling on 18-inch (front) and 16-inch (rear) wheels that have been fitted with 90/90 (front) and 120/80 (rear) tyres, while stopping power comes from a 240mm disc (front) and 130mm (rear) drum.

The V15's ride and handling is taken care of by the front telescopic and rear mono-shock suspension as the 55W low and 60W high-beam provides forward illumination.

Both NS200 and RS200, costing RM9,222 and RM11,342 respectively (including GST), uses a six-speed manual gearbox to manage the 199.5cc single-overhead cam, four-valve, liquid-cooled, triple-spark, single-cylinder motor producing 24.5PS at 9,750rpm and 18.6Nm of torque at 8,000rpm.

Both bikes, with a wet weight of 155kg, use 17-inch wheels fitted with 100/80 (front) and 130/70 (rear) tyres as well as front telescopic forks with an anti-friction bush and Nitrox-filled rear mono-shock absorber.

They are also 1,993mm-long, with the naked NS200 having a ground clearance of 167mm and is the only one that uses a 12-litre fuel tank while colour options are Red/Black and Black.

It also has the longest wheelbase at 1,363mm and the widest at 804mm, while being slightly taller than the V15 at 1,075mm (+5mm).

Stopping power comes from two hydraulically operated discs - 280mm (front) and 230mm (rear), and a blue-tinged automatic H4 (55W-low and 60W-high beam) headlamp has been fitted as standard.For an additional RM2,120, the more sportier RS200 (available in White/Blue and Black) has a wheelbase of 1,345mm and comes fitted with an automatic (55W low and 65W high-beam) projector headlamp instead, as well as anti-lock braking system (ABS) for the uprated 300mmm (front) and 230mm (rear) discs.

In terms of dimensions, it comes in as the slimmest at 765mm, the tallest at 1,345mm and has the lowest ground-clearance at 157mm.

"I am especially happy with this latest collaboration with BAL, as it has given us the opportunity to penetrate into a fresh segment which is booming and continues to grow stronger in the years to come," said DRB-HICOM automotive distribution and manufacturing & engineering chief executive officer Datuk Harith Abdullah.

Modenas V15

Modenas Pulsar NS200

Modenas Pulsar RS200


VW shows €25,000 EV to compete where Tesla has left an opening

                HAMBURG: Volkswagen AG unveiled an affordable electric vehicle that’s a couple years away from production, putting Europe’s largest carmaker on a collision course with Tesla Inc.

The compact ID. 2all concept previews a car costing less than €25,000 (RM120,000) that VW is readying for the European market in 2025.

The maker of the Golf hatchback - which was knocked off its perch atop sales charts last year - said Wednesday the EV will be as spacious as that model and as inexpensive as the Polo.

"We are implementing the transformation at pace to bring electric mobility to the masses,” VW brand chief Thomas Schäfer said in a statement.

Volkswagen urgently needs a people’s car for the electric age. It’s struggled to keep pace with Tesla’s EVs and needs to halt sales declines in China, where domestic manufacturers led by BYD Co. have stepped up their game.

An electric model that comes even remotely close to the success of the Golf - VW has produced more than 35 million units - would do wonders for the brand.

The ID. 2all’s debut in Hamburg adds to a busy week for VW.

On Monday, the German company announced plans to build a battery factory in Canada - its first outside Europe and the country’s biggest-ever auto investment.

On Tuesday, the manufacturer increased its rolling five-year spending plan some 13% to €180 billion (RM860bil), with more than two-thirds going to software and EVs.

While Tesla has dominated the first phase of the EV shift, chief executive officer Elon Musk has left an opening for incumbents by taking time to pad out the company’s lineup.

Tesla last launched a new passenger vehicle - the Model Y - in 2020, and it’s only made minor cosmetic changes to the Model 3 since the sedan went into production almost six years ago.

It’s unclear when the US$25,000 (RM113,000) model Musk first teased in 2020 will be ready.

The ID. 2all boasts 450km of range, driver-assistance features and an overhauled in-car infotainment system.

VW said the front-wheel drive vehicle takes design cues from the Polo, Golf and Beetle. The production version will be based on the new MEB Entry platform.

Building an EV affordable enough for the mass market has been the auto industry’s white whale.

With batteries remaining expensive and EV production still scaling up, cheap electric cars have mostly been limited to short-range mini models in China that are unlikely to catch on in most of the rest of the world.

The production version of the ID. 2all is one of 10 new electric models that will be launched by Volkswagen by 2026.

VW’s existing lineup of EVs includes the ID.3 sedan, ID.4 and ID.5 sport utility vehicles and the ID. Buzz minibus.

It’s going to introduce an updated version of the ID.3, a long-wheelbase ID. Buzz and an ID.7 saloon this year and is also working on an electric model priced below €20,000 (RM96,000).


Kawasaki Z400 and Z250 launched from RM29K

Kawasaki Z250 ABS

KUALA LUMPUR: In conjunction with Kawasaki Malaysia’s 30th Anniversary celebration, the company launched two new models - the Z250 ABS and Z400 SE ABS.

The Z250 ABS is priced at RM21,988 and the Z400 SE ABS at RM28,755.

The Z400 SE ABS is a 399cc, DOHC, eight-valve, liquid-cooled parallel-twin that offers 45hp at 10,000rpm and 38Nm of torque at 8,000rpm.

Transmission is a 6-speed type and the Z400 features a two-channel ABS.

The front is fitted with single 310mm disc together with a two-piston calliper while the rear brake is a single 220mm disc with a dual-piston calliper.

Kawasaki Z400 SE ABS

The Z400 front suspension is fitted with a 41mm diameter telescopic fork complemented by the preload adjustable mono shock absorber at the rear.

Meanwhile, Z250 ABS's 248cc, DOHC, eight-valve, liquid-cooled parallel-twin delivers 37hp at 12,500rpm and 23Nm at 10,500rpm.

Also featuring a six-speed transmission, the Z250 uses a single 290mm brake disc at the front while the rear wheel gets a single 220 mm disc on dual piston calliper.

Not to forget the suspension is equipped with a 37mm telescopic fork while the rear is preload adjustable.

The Z250 ABS will be available in Candy Lime Green and Z400 SE ABS in Pearl Storm Grey.

They were launched by Home Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin.


SEAT developing car stereo without speakers or headphones

                BARCELONA: SEAT has come up with the concept of a future audio system that works without the use of speakers or headphones. And it may not be too long until such a system is in its cars as the company has partnered with a company called Noveto to make it a reality.

The two companies now have a prototype that could change the way drivers and passengers listen to music on the move; the design uses revolutionary new technology that beams sound from devices into the ears.

If you're struggling at this stage to understand what the point of this is, the big benefit of such a system would be the ability for those in the vehicle to listen to different music, games, movies or other entertainment all at the same time without disturbing one another.

Noveto is a mobility startup company that's developed this technology, which could also be used for drivers to manage phone calls without bothering other occupants of the vehicle. At the same time, the others would be able to continue listening to what they want without interrupting the call. If anyone has ever been on a long family journey in a vehicle, the benefits of such as system are easy to imagine.

Although we're told the music is beamed to the ears of the listener, nothing else is being said at the moment beyond that. It's hard to imagine how people in the same vehicle can listen to different sounds from the audio system without having something in their ear or elsewhere to receive the signal.

But that's probably exactly why Noveto and SEAT are keeping pretty quiet about how it actually works at the moment.

We're told development of the speakerless sound system is ongoing, and that Noveto hopes to integrate its dynamic sound system technology into a standard production version of a SEAT vehicle soon. Until then we'll just have to keep guessing at just how on earth it possibly works.


Experiencing BMW's first Asian driving centre in S. Korea

                Winter has started its retreat last month but was still reluctant to release its frosty grip.

With an average daytime weather of -5 Celsius in Incheon, South Korea, the climate is bone-chilling if your attire is not thick enough.

It was at BMW’s newest and first Asian driving centre here that our group of Malaysia journalists were to check out the German-car maker’s finest on a backdrop of snow and ice.

We were wondering how a winter driving experience would be helpful to us who hail from a country with all-year round equatorial weather.

Our instructor who identified himself as Mr Choi was quick with his reply.

“Though it doesn’t snow in Malaysia, its sudden torrential rain will make roads wet and slippery like ice and snow-covered roads we have in Korea during winter.”

The spanking new driving centre, which was launched in July last year, boasts several courses and a 2.6km track for BMW and non-BMW car owners to test the Munich-based automaker’s vehicles to their hearts content.

But before we got into any of the centre’s test vehicles, a series of driving and technical tutorials were the order of the day.

As usual, the correct seating position is the key in ensuring you will be in the best position to control the car in high-speed manoeuvring.

This means that you have to sit in an upright position with your elbows bent at some 100 degrees when holding the steering wheel.

You should not be sitting as if you were lounging in a sofa.

Hands should hold the steering wheel at the 9 and 3’o clock position and your seat should not be adjusted too far behind so you can fully step on the brake pedal in an emergency.

We even have to pass a breathalyser test before keys to the cars were given to us.

Fail this and you will get to watch your colleagues do the driving from the comforts of a toasty waiting lounge.

This sobriety requirement is definitely over the top but the driving centre’s rules are rigid and the instructors are uncompromising in ensuring incident-free sessions.

My test units were the X5 and 3 Series GT which came with BMW’s xDrive all-wheel drive system that sends power to the wheels that have traction to keep these vehicles moving on slippery roads.

By the time our turn had arrived, the snowy slalom course which had been used by another media group had turned slushy and wet.

The cars handled pretty well on the snowy course but once the dynamic stability and traction control system was switched off, they spun out easily at hard cornering.

Almost every one of us knocked down a safety cone or two in that exercise.

This demonstrated how much electronic safety controls have contributed to a safer drive on slippery conditions.

Depending on conditions, the system will power down the engine and apply brakes on certain wheels to stabilise the vehicle and get it back into the intended driving line quickly.

All BMW cars are fitted with this safety feature as standard.

When I had got to swap my test car for another unit, I had to walk slowly and be extra careful as the icy course was slippery like banana peel.

We also got to learn the advantage of winter tyres versus summer tyres on snowy or icy roads.

Summer tyres get harder in cold climate and have less grip compared with winter tyres.

Winter tyres have more sipes on their thread blocks to improve bite on snow and ice.

BMW test cars fitted with summer tyres were struggling to move on the icy surface unlike those with winter tyres.

Aside from testing BMW cars on the snowy course, we also got to drive them on the high speed track and an off-road trail.

Suffice to say that while power and performance have been an integral part of BMW’s DNA, the car maker has never neglected dynamic handling and safety.

With the new driving centre in Incheon, BMW goes another step in bringing its brand experience closer to Asian enthusiasts.

BMW is the top foreign brand in South Korea with sales of some 40,000 units last year.


Goodyear Malaysia contest to reward customers

                KUALA LUMPUR: Goodyear Malaysia aims to end the year on a high note by rewarding customers with attractive weekly and monthly prizes, and continues to spread the joy all the way to Chinese New Year in February, 2021.

From Dec 14 until Feb 28, customers who buy Goodyear tyres will be eligible to participate in a contest, by registering their purchase via Goodyear Malaysia’s Worry Free Assurance web page.

There will be 40 weekly winners and 3 monthly winners throughout the contest period, in which winners will receive a Targus Sport Laptop Backpack and RM888 worth of Touch ‘n Go credits respectively.

“This year has been a very challenging year for most of us, and we would like to share our utmost gratitude to our loyal fans and even new supporters for putting their trust in us and our products," said Goodyear Malaysia managing director Alex Ng.

"Through this contest, we want to continue to drive the messaging for all road users to take safety seriously, and remember to replace their tyres when it is due to start the new year on the right track.”

To participate in the contest, consumers will have to first purchase Goodyear tyres from any Goodyear AutoCare centres or its distributors, and proceed with registering their purchase via Goodyear Malaysia’s Worry Free Assurance web page.

Every purchase of two pieces of tyres with sizes below 16 inches will be equivalent to one entry submission; whereas every purchase of two pieces of tyres with sizes above 17 inches will be equivalent to two entry submissions.

Winners will be announced weekly and monthly via Goodyear Malaysia’s Facebook page (@GoodyearMalaysia), and the monthly winners will receive their rewards via the Touch ‘n Go eWallet app.


Mercedes-AMG steps up A 45 and CLA 45 sportiness

                AFFALTERBACH (Germany):  Mercedes-AMG says it has improved its compact A 45 4MATIC+/ A 45 S 4MATIC+ and CLA 45 4MATIC+/ CLA 45 S 4MATIC+.

Available in two output and torque variants, the newly developed 2.0-litre engine in the cars is the world's most powerful turbocharged four-cylinder engine in manufacture for series production.

Even the basic model with 387hp is more powerful than its predecessor.

 The A 45 S 4MATIC+.

The S-variant with 421hp jostles with considerably higher vehicle classes. Perfect sequences in all driving situations, and fast gearshifts measured in milliseconds, are guaranteed by the new AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT-8G dual-clutch transmission with eight gears.

The active, fully-variable AMG Performance 4MATIC+ all-wheel drive distributes the power to the rear axle wheel-selectively by AMG TORQUE CONTROL – for top traction and the spectacular Drift mode. This is made possible by a new rear axle differential featuring two multidisc clutches – one for each rear wheel.

 The CLA 45 S 4MATIC+.

"We have completely redesigned our "45" models – from the engine and transmission through the chassis, the elaborately constructed drivetrain to the body structure and of course the design itself – all with one goal: to raise vehicle dynamics and the sporty driving experience to a level previously unimaginable in the compact class.

"With the presentation of this, our most powerful and most dynamic compact sports car, we are also reinforcing the significance of this segment for our growth strategy", says Tobias Moers, Chairman of the Management Board of Mercedes-AMG GmbH.

For the first time, the compact class now also features the AMG-specific radiator grille with a wider lower contour and twelve vertical louvres – as a clear indicator of AMG Performance family membership.

 Mercedes-AMG A 45 S 4MATIC+.

The pronounced "shark nose", the slim, deeply contoured headlamps and the flat, aerodynamically favourable bonnet with powerdomes visually lower the front section to create the impression of dynamic forward thrust.

The imposing presence is also accentuated by the wider front wings with flared wheel arches.

These create space for the wider front axle, and underline the athletic appearance. This muscular impression is even stronger with the A 45 4MATIC+ than with the CLA 45 4MATIC+, as the basic CLA already has a wider front track and the wings could be flared to a lesser extent.

 The CLA 45 S 4MATIC+.

With an output of up to 310 kW (421 hp), the completely newly developed 2.0-litre engine is the world's most powerful turbocharged four-cylinder manufactured for series production.

This positioning logic has already proved successful for the AMG Performance models with a V8 engine, and meets individual customer wishes even better.

The new compact sportscars absolve the sprint from zero to 100kph in record time: the A 45 S 4MATIC+ requires only 3.9 seconds (CLA 45 S 4MATIC+: 4.0 seconds), while the basic A 45 4MATIC+ model absolves this discipline in 4.0 seconds (CLA 45 4 MATIC+ in 4.1 seconds).

 Mercedes-AMG A 45 S 4MATIC+.

The top speed of the basic models is electronically limited to 250kph, while the S-models are capable of up to 270kph.

The 8-speed AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 8G dual-clutch transmission likewise contributes to the agile and dynamic character.

The gear ratios have been configured so that the driver experiences very spontaneous acceleration in all speed ranges, combined with fast shifting and optimum connections when shifting up.

Depending on the selected AMG DYNAMIC SELECT driving mode, the driver receives a specific drive configuration with different accelerator and gearshift characteristics.

 The  A 45 S 4MATIC+.

With its sporty appointments and the MBUX infotainment system, the high-quality interior creates a close, personal connection between man and machine.

The driver and front passenger are seated in an active position on contoured sport seats with firm lateral support.

The standard upholstery as a combination of black ARTICO man-made leather and DINAMICA microfibre is timeless, and creates typical AMG highlights with double topstitching in red. The colour scheme is echoed by the red designo seat belts and the dashboard support trim in black DINAMICA microfibre with a red border.

 The CLA 45 S 4MATIC+.

The A 45 S and CLA 45 S even go a step further: yellow highlights reoccur throughout the interior to emphasise the motor racing character of the more powerful models.

Also included in the standard equipment are the AMG Performance steering wheel in nappa leather/DINAMICA microfibre with contrasting yellow topstitching, a yellow 12 o'clock marking, AMG steering wheel buttons and AMG logo, plus ambience lighting.

 The CLA 45 S 4MATIC+.


Rent your own fire engine for an adrenalin-fuelled drive

                LONDON: Adults and children who dream of speeding through the streets with sirens blaring and everyone getting out of their way can sign up for a fire engine drive with a British company.

Under expert tuition, thrill-seekers can "channel their inner firefighter" and pilot a bright red Dennis Sabre XL engine with a top speed of 130kph.

Passenger rides, which take place at a former Royal Air Force bomber station in the southern English town of Bicester, are also available for those not old enough to drive the big boy's toy, with children as young as six able to perch inside the cabin.

"Many youngsters dream of becoming a firefighter one day, so by putting their foot to the floor in a Denis Sabre XL, those behind the wheel may very well feel like they are finally fulfilling a childhood dream," said Dan Jones, operations manager at TrackDays.co.uk.

After a safety briefing an instructor guides drivers in a one-to-one session before they are allowed to get to grips with the 12-tonne vehicle which is powered by an 8.2-litre Cummins engine.

A 20-minute trip on private roads costs £59 (RM332).


Toyota-Panasonic battery JV to buy lithium from ioneer's Nevada mine

                TOKYO: A joint battery venture of Toyota Motor Corp and Panasonic Corp will buy lithium from ioneer Ltd's Rhyolite Ridge mining project and use the metal to build electric vehicle batteries in the United States.

The binding supply deal, announced on Sunday, is the second in less than a month for ioneer and a strong vote of confidence in a project that is racing to be the first new U.S. source of the battery metal in decades.

Under the terms of the deal, ioneer will supply 4,000 tonnes of lithium carbonate annually for five years to Prime Planet Energy & Solutions (PPES), which was formed by Toyota and Panasonic in 2020 to better compete with battery market leader Contemporary Amperex Technology Co Ltd (CATL).

Supplies are slated to begin in 2025, a timeline that depends in part on ioneer obtaining financing and permitting.

The deal includes a commitment from PPES that ioneer's lithium will be used to build EV battery parts inside the United States for the U.S. EV market. PPES, which is based in Japan, has reportedly been considering building a battery plant in western North Carolina.

"The whole purpose of this agreement is for this lithium to be used in the United States," James Calaway, ioneer's executive chairman, told Reuters.

A proposed expansion of the US EV tax credit would require that lithium and other EV minerals be sourced domestically or from allies starting as soon as next year.

That potential change, which is under debate in Congress, has shown a spotlight on the nascent US development plans of battery and automakers.

"Having an agreement with ioneer provides PPES a first step in securing a U.S. supply of lithium," said PPES president Hiroaki Koda, who added he has "confidence in ioneer's technology."

The amount of lithium that ioneer will supply PPES is enough to make batteries for about 150,000 EVs annually, though that figure would vary depending on design and other factors.

Australia-based ioneer aims to produce about 21,000 tonnes of lithium in Nevada annually starting in 2025. It signed a supply deal with Ford Motor Co in mid-July and last year with South Korea's Ecopro Co.

The Rhyolite Ridge project has faced push back from some conservationists who worry it could harm a rare flower known as Tiehm's buckwheat, though ioneer has said it believes it can safely extract lithium while also protecting the plant.

"We've figured out how we can build the mine and not touch the Tiehm's buckwheat," said Calaway.


Revving up to a new speed record in the Kalahari

Andy Green, the driver, checking the jet-propelled British Bloodhound LSR (Land Speed Record) car before a high-speed run on Nov 14. — AFP
HAKSKEENPAN (South Africa): A loud hiss rips through the stillness of southern Africa's Kalahari Desert.

It sounds like a fighter jet flying low over the Hakskeen Pan, an isolated dry lake bed in South Africa's Northern Cape province, near the Namibian border. Then a thick cloud of sand appears on the horizon, growing steadily as it draws near.

In the blink of an eye, a racing car shoots by with a deafening screech and pelts towards the opposite end of the salt pan.

The "Bloodhound" is gearing up to try to break the current land speed record, which stands at 1,223.657kph.

There's still a way to go before the super racer is ready for that attempt, but today driver Andy Green is pleased.

"We have reached 904kph," he says, beaming as he lifts himself out of the cockpit, helmet in hand.

"First thing in the morning, plenty of thrust, nice calm wind, so the car ran absolutely straight."
The British-built Bloodhound stands sleekly behind him, dust still hovering in its wake.

The white parachute that helps it brake lies crumpled on the cracked ochre soil.
"Good parachute deployment," adds the Briton, as the vehicle is towed into a large air-conditioned tent nearby.

"That's pretty much the perfect run," he says.

'Jet engine with wheels'

The Bloodhound was designed exclusively for speed -- the team hopes, if possible, to get up to 1,000 mph.

The vehicle resembles a wingless jet on aluminium wheels, with a long white body topped by an engine and a stabiliser.

Its design is miles ahead of the bullet-shaped electric car in which French aristocrat Gaston de Chasseloup-Laubat set the first land speed record on December 18, 1898 -- pushing the vehicle's spoke wheels to 63.15 kph.

"You can call it that, a jet engine with wheels, but it's far more sophisticated than that," said Stuart Edmondson, head of Bloodhound operations.

Chief engineer Mark Chapman described the racer as "part Formula 1" and "part jet fighter".

"The car, as it is a car, has a steering wheel, has a throttle pedal, has a brake pedal," he told AFP.

The engine, built by Rolls Royce, once powered a Royal Air Force (RAF) Eurofighter Typhoon fighter jet.

It was recycled from three decommissioned versions of the Typhoon's engine, released by Britain's defence ministry, "without the handbooks", chuckles a Bloodhound team member.

"It's a car designed to go at 1,600 kph," said Chapman, adding that at top speed it would be almost 400 kph faster than a Typhoon at the same altitude.

"The big issues were aerodynamics, keeping it on the ground," he said.

"You don't want it to be a plane."

As the engine's nine tons of thrust are still unable to break the sound barrier, Chapman and his team plan to give it a boost with... a rocket engine.

Green is not intimidated by the prospect. The 57-year RAF pilot has held the current land speed record since 1997.

Skating

"It's a very different sensation," to flying a fighter jet, Green told AFP. "A very different environment... (and) vehicle."

But the skills and the "second by second" decisions needed to stay in control are like flying a jet fighter "at the limits of its performance", he added.

Green said the main difficulty was keeping the land vehicle steady.

"The car starts to move around at about 300kph, at 350kph it starts to almost skate on the surface," he said.

"It's like driving on hard packed snow in a normal car."

At such high speed, the slightest mistake or technical glitch can be fatal.

In August, the American professional racer Jessi Combs was killed during a test-run for a land-speed record attempt in Oregon's Alvord Desert in the United States.

In the Kalahari, safety is managed by the Bloodhound team's only female member, Jessica Kinsman.

The 39-year-old air traffic controller makes sure to minimise any source of danger along the 16-kilometre desert track.

Nothing escapes her eagle eyes, be it the wind factor, obstacles or a slight anomaly in the vehicle's motion.

"Here, it's almost an airfield, there is a runway, there is an aircraft, more or less," said Kinsman comparing the car to a plane, from her viewpoint overlooking the desert in the elevated glass-faced control station.

"We have the final say on a number of things," she added, with a smile.

Meanwhile, a man discreetly oversees the mechanics as the team busies itself around the Bloodhound in the cool-aired tent.

Ian Warhurst is the racer's proud owner.

He saved the failing project last year by buying the Bloodhound, which was on the verge of being dismantled and sold as spare parts.

'Inspiration'

"I have certainly spent sums of seven figures (in pounds) to get here," Warhurst told AFP.

Ex-owner of a turbocharger manufacturer in Britain, he said that amount was "nothing" compared to money "you need to spend for projects like, say, Formula 1 teams".

Warhurst, 50, who retired last year after making his fortune, defended his new carbon-intensive hobby as a source of "inspiration".

Breaking the record "would obviously be an amazing thing", he said.

"But it's the journey to get there that is really exciting."

And he said that he hoped the team's work would inspire others to advance new technologies, especially in becoming carbon neutral.

"So if we can help to inspire engineers to do that, then we're doing our part," Warhurst said.
The millionaire said that he hoped the tests in South Africa would help attract other investors.

This desert tryout, which took place between late October and mid-November, has seen the Bloodhound's speedometer needle creep up to 1,010 kph.

The car is now headed back to its home base in Britain for more tweaking and the new rocket engine, before its expected return to the Kalahari by mid-2021 for another attempt.

Green is already excited at the thought.

"I'm very confident there is nothing on the planet with the capability that Bloodhound car has," he said.

"I'm confident we are going to break the record."


Haval selling H1 and H2 at attractive discounts

                PETALING JAYA: Haval distributor Go Auto is now organising a tax holiday promotion, which offers rebates of up to RM7,300.

The "Freedom From GST" promotion will run until Aug 31. New and existing Haval customers are offered savings worth up to RM6,600 for H1 and up to RM7,300 for H2.

Aside from the promotion, the company will be holding a roadshow at The Curve Shopping Mall, Petaling Jaya from Aug 9-12.


Ducati sign up with MotoGP until end of 2026

                BOLOGNA: Italian manufacturer Ducati announced today its continuation in MotoGP until at least the end of the 2026 season.

Ducati won the top category with Australian Casey Stoner in 2007, ending a 32-year Japanese manufacturer domination of the sport.

The Bologna-based company also secured the MotoGP constructors' title last season following a 50 point deduction for Yamaha. Suzuki took the rider and team titles with Spaniard Joan Mir.

The factory Ducati team has a new lineup for 2021 with Australian Jack Miller and Italian Francesco Bagnaia.

"Racing has always been a truly fundamental part of the Ducati brand and will remain so in the future," said Ducati CEO Claudio Domenicali in a statement.

"This renewed agreement confirms that, while we plan to continue to expand our product range outside of the world of sports bikes, the track and high-performance motorbikes remain a central element for Ducati."


MINI Cooper S Convertible — only 20 units available at RM280K

                KUALA LUMPUR: Mini Malaysia has introduced the F57 MINI Convertible (F57) for its Cooper S range in celebration of the brand's 60th anniversary with only 20 units being made available for Malaysia.

Starting from July 20, sales for the convertible will begin, with price set at RM279,888 (on-the-road without insurance). The car is backed by a four-year unlimited mileage warranty with free scheduled service.

As part of the brand's 60th anniversary, those who buy this vehicle before Aug 31 will be able to upgrade the warranty to a 60-month (five-year) unlimited mileage with a 60-month (five-year) or 80,000km free scheduled service (whichever comes first).

Regardless of when the convertible is bought, it will also come with MINI Roadside Assistance and MINI Service Online.

With balloon financing from BMW Group Financial Services Malaysia, the convertible can cost RM3,028 a month based on an 80% loan over a 60-month tenure.

It comes in a choice of five colours namely Chili Red, Solaris Orange, Melting Silver, Starlight Blue and an exclusive Caribbean Aqua.

Powering the front wheels is the 2.0-litre turbocharged B48 engine producing 192hp and 280Nm of torque which is managed by a seven-speed Steptronic Sports dual-clutch transmission.

This allows the convertible to sprint from 0 to 100kph in 7.1 seconds before reaching a top speed of 230kph. The  driver will be able to manage the driving experience via Green, Mid or Sport drive modes.

The convertible is equipped with LEDs headlights and tail lights that take on a Union Jack design as an ode to the heritage of the brand.

The fabric roof also has a Union Jack design. The roof takes 18 seconds to open up at speeds up to 30kph.

The MINI rides on Jet Black 17-inch Rail Spoke design wheels with run-flat tyres.

For payload convenience, it os installed with an Easy Load system that increases the size of the luggage compartment opening by holding the retracted soft top above the compartment hatch.

Inside, the cabin features a steering wheel wrapped in Nappa leather while the seats are upholstered in Chester Malt Brown leather with hand-finished aluminium-coloured contrast stitching.

It also features an illuminated interior surface in Piano Black where owners can choose from 12 colour options to illuminate the Union Jack Design from 'MINI Yours'.

Entertainment comes from a 6.5-inch Touch Screen Display in the Mini Centre Instrument that uses the new-generation MINI Connected.

There is also the built-in 4G SIM technology that helps to provide other services that include Intelligent Emergency Call, TeleServices, MINI Online, wireless Apple CarPlay and Remote Services.

With the MINI Connected app, new owners are able to plan and design their everyday mobility experience by synchronising the app with a personal calendar.

This also enables functions that include Send to Car (where the app transfers routes planned on the smartphone to the car’s navigation system).

There is also the Last Mile Route which helps to continue navigation via smartphone while walking from the parked car to the actual destination), Time-to-Leave Notification and Share Live Trip Status — all of which help the driver get to appointments on time.

For safety, the convertible is equipped with six airbags, dynamic traction control, dynamic stability control and parking sensors to name a few.

"The MINI Convertible is coveted for its stylish open-top driving excitement, non-stop thrill behind the wheel and complete with its unique go-kart drive feeling. In 2019, it returns to Malaysia in special numbers to celebrate the 60th Birthday of MINI,” said BMW Group Malaysia managing director Harald Hoelzl.


Over 200 Hyundai Staria 10-seaters sold within a month of launch

                PETALING JAYA: Hyundai Staria 10-seater is selling like hotcakes, according to distributor Hyundai-Sime Darby Motor Sdn Bhd (HSDM).

It said over 200 units of the Staria 10-seater has been sold within the first month of its launch.

Sleek, spacious and innovative, the futuristic-looking MPV is aimed at large families and as a first-class ride for corporate executives.

The Staria 10-seater is equipped with Hyundai’s SmartSense safety features including forward collision-avoidance assist, lane keeping assist, safe exit assist, lane following assist and rear cross-traffic collision-avoidance assist, among others.

With smart power sliding doors, smart power tailgate, charging ports, full flat folding and sliding seats, wireless Android Auto/Apple CarPlay, USB outlets for all seats and 3M premium tint, the Staria offers luxurious comfort and convenience.

"Given the limited supply and with the next batch expected in early 2023, now is the best time for MPV enthusiasts to lock in their orders while stocks last,” said HSDM managing director Low Yuan Lung.

The Staria 10-seater is available in three variants namely the Lite, Plus, and Max.

It comes in Abyss Black Pearl, Creamy White, Shimmering Silver Metallic, Moonlight Blue Pearl, and Graphite Grey Metallic. Priced from RM179,888, the Staria 10-seater replaces the Grand Starex, which is no longer available.


Nazir Razak takes on e-hailing driver role for a day

                PETALING JAYA: A few Airasia Ride customers on Merdeka Day (Aug 31) were surprised by their driver that day, who turned out to be none other than prominent banker Datuk Seri Nazir Razak.

In an almost nine minute-long video on YouTube, Nazir, who is also former CIMB chairman and group CEO, is seen picking up passengers over a four-hour 'shift'.

"I have Datuk Seri Nazir driving me, that's unusual," a female passenger is heard saying on the video as she updates her social media feed.

Nazir also gives financial tips to passengers and shares memories of his late father Tun Abdul Razak Hussein.

Nazir also obliges to take selfies with passengers when asked.

Further in the video, Nazir picks up airasia Group executive chairman Datuk Kamarudin Meranun.

Nazir tells Kamarudin that passengers who chose him as their driver would get a free ride.

"The advantage of requesting for me is that it's free. Apparently I'm not licensed, so I cannot charge," Nazir says.

The duo also talk about Malaysia post-Merdeka and the state of the country today.

They also discuss race and religion and the importance of education.

Later Nazir talks to the camera and says he "earned" RM67, without tips, after driving for more than four hours.

"So, I think if I really put my back into it, I could probably do RM250 a day. Work six to seven days.

"So, it's a pretty good living, I think," he says.

Nazir also says he had many interesting conversations and customers on his drive.

"I asked them questions and they bantered. If I have free time, I'd be quite happy to ask Tony Fernandes (Airasia Group chief executive officer) to arrange it again," he says.

Airasia Ride services were also extended to Langkawi as of Thursday, and there are plans to launch at other cities across the nation in future.

Airasia Ride is the newest e-hailing service in town and has received more than 5,000 driver applications.


Hamilton's supercars running short of drive time

Hamilton says he's making a lot of changes in his personal life. And that includes not driving the supercars he owns because of their high carbon footprint. — AP
LONDON: Six-times Formula One world champion Lewis Hamilton has a collection of supercars worth millions of dollars but he no longer drives any of them.

The Mercedes driver, announced this week as the new owner of a team in the electric off-road Extreme E series starting up next year, told reporters he was doing his best to be environmentally friendly.

“It’s difficult because there are people (who say) like ‘yeah, but you race a Formula One car around every weekend’,” the 35-year-old Briton said on Thursday at the Tuscan Grand Prix at Italy’s Mugello circuit.

“Some of it’s education because not everyone knows the footprint that our sport currently has and what we’re doing in terms of trying to improve that. But I’m making a lot of changes in my personal life.

“I don’t drive any of the cars that I own any more. I only drive my (electric Mercedes) EQC.”

Formula One issued a sustainability plan last year with the aim of achieving a net zero-carbon footprint for the sport by 2030. It has also promised that all Formula One events would be sustainable by 2025.

Hamilton, a vegan, said he also drove a Smart car and requested to be collected from airports in electric vehicles. He has sold his private jet.

According to media reports, he owns a Ferrari LaFerrari, Pagani Zonda, McLaren P1 and 1960s Shelby Cobra among other cars.

The championship leader said he was impressed by Extreme E’s aims and goals, with each team crew having a mandatory female driver.

The races will be held in some of the most remote and harsh environments including the Brazilian rain forest, Greenland, Saudi Arabian deserts and mountains of Nepal to highlight global warming.

There will be no spectators but races will be broadcast on TV and social media, with cars transported around the world on a boat that doubles as a floating paddock.


First impressions of Toyota Hilux and Fortuner

                A day before the official launch of the new Toyota Hilux pickup truck and the new Fortuner SUV, UMW Toyota Motor Sdn Bhd, the authorised importer and distributor of Toyota vehicles in Malaysia, prepared a special event just for members of the media, to try out the new cars.

The event was held at the grounds of the Toyota Service Centre in Bukit Raja, Klang, where an off-road course was specifically built to test out the off-road capabilities of both the Hilux and Fortuner. We were also allowed to enter the Toyota testing ground facility where we could perform high speed tests among others.

 Members of the media taking part in the drive.

The Hilux now features an all new diesel Intercooler VNT engines which comes in two displacements - the 2.4 litre and 2.8 litre. The latter produces 177PS at 3,400rpm and 450Nm of torque from 1,600 - 2,400rpm and this was the one we tested.

The tremendous twisting force the 2.8G variant produces, that by simply engaging the new six-speed automatic transmission, the car was moving along gingerly without even touching the accelerator. That had already impressed us. Equally impressive was its off-road capabilities especially through the elephant steps.

With the amount of torque and the new Active Traction Control (A-TRC) system which acts as a limited slip differential, it helps you overcome the obstacles with ease. In fact, we had to be gentler on the accelerator because the Hilux would just jump at the slightest touch.

Climbing up a 30 degree hill slope allowed us to test the Hill-start Assist Control (HAC) where you could just stop the car, lift your foot off the brakes and it would hold it there for three seconds.

What was really astounding though was the very low levels of noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) in the cabin and the superb suspension which consists of an independent double wishbone with coil spring in the front and leaf spring with rigid axle in the rear. Even the rattle of the diesel engine was hard to detect.

While you can’t escape the motions going through a very bumpy terrain, there was no rattling or knocking sounds coming out of the car. And you can hit high speeds on the Hilux with confidence as it is stable and the power delivery is linear and smooth.

The 2.8 also has premium features such as smart entry and push start, a 2-DIN Head Unit DVD player with 6.1in touchscreen, LED projector headlamps and LED daytime running lights, reverse camera and seven airbags.

The Fortuner is also capable of going off-road as the Hilux but where it really stands out is its exterior design. It looks sleek and streamlined and the blacked out C-pillars gives it a floating roofline appearance which can be found on the luxury Lexus RX model.

The Fortuner comes in two variants - a 2.4 litre diesel and 2.7 petrol engine. The latter has more premium features with the impressive interior consisting of dark brown combination leather seats and wood trim. The design of the centre dash is also eye catching and overall, the Fortuner exudes a premium feel to it compared to the previous generation.

The new Hilux is available in six variants in manual or automatic transmissions and prices start from RM89,900. The prices for the new Fortuner start at RM189,900.


Myanmar protesters hope 'broken down' cars can hinder crackdown

Demonstrators using their cars to block the road during a protest against the military coup in Yangon today. — Reuters
YANGON: Opponents of Myanmar's military coup parked their cars in the middle of city streets and on bridges today, pretending they had broken down to block police and army trucks moving around to break up protests.

Calls for a "broken-down car campaign" spread quickly on social media after the military's overnight block on the internet was lifted. Numerous pictures soon appeared of supposedly stalled cars, with bonnets raised, clogging up streets.

"Everyone is facing difficulties," said taxi driver Thein Naing, who was taking part in the protest in the main city of Yangon after giving up hope of doing any business on Wednesday, with petrol prices so high and traffic even more grid-locked than usual.

The car campaign came as democracy activists were aiming to draw huge crowds here and elsewhere in what they hope would be a major show of opposition to the army's overthrow and arrest of elected leader Aung San Suu Kyi.

But it risked being too successful for its own good and preventing opponents of the coup joining the protest, one activist said.

"There need to be millions of protesters at Sule," said activist Maung Saung Kha, referring to a central Yangon protest site.

"Stop the 'broken-down car' at 11 am and help the protesters get to Sule as soon as possible."


Harley Quinn actress the face of Nissan's new electric vehicle

PARIS: Actor Margot Robbie has been revealed as Nissan's new electric vehicle (EV) ambassador by racing the carmaker's radical all-electric BladeGlider sports car around the world-famous Monaco Grand Prix circuit, at midnight.

The prototype 190kph Nissan BladeGlider, which hits 100kph in less than five seconds, challenges the conventional thinking of what an all-electric sports car could look like in the future.

Showcasing all the fun and excitement of pure electric vehicles, the prototype is part of Nissan's Intelligent Mobility vision of how cars should be driven, powered and integrated into society.

Margot Robbie put the radical three-seater through its paces around the closed Monaco street circuit before racing another BladeGlider. The pair of 272PS performance cars raced through the iconic Tunnel and diced with each other along Massenet before finishing in the glamour of Casino Square.

In the film, the Suicide Squad and The Wolf of Wall Street star is also seen demonstrating the drifting prowess of Nissan BladeGlider around one of the most famous corners in the world of motorsport – the iconic Fairmont Hairpin.

"It's a really exciting time for electric vehicles," said Robbie. "More people are choosing to go electric, leading the way to a more sustainable future and the Nissan BladeGlider hints at the future of smarter performance cars."

As the manufacturer of the world's best-selling electric vehicle, the Leaf, Nissan is also revolutionizing the way energy is generated and utilized with products like its intelligent xStorage Home unit and vehicle-to-grid technology, which harness the power of battery technology from electric vehicles.

"The electric revolution is happening," said Gareth Dunsmore, director of Electric Vehicles for Nissan Europe. "As the global leader in electric vehicles, and with mass adoption just around the corner, it is more important than ever that we showcase all of the benefits of driving an electric car – from energy efficiency, to sustainability, from handling to performance. Having Margot on board will support us in spreading news of the personal and societal benefits of electric vehicles to more people than ever before. Nissan's Electrify the World movement recognizes the importance of us all working together to achieve positive change in our communities. We want to inspire people to take meaningful steps towards cleaner, safer cities."

The Nissan BladeGlider will be on display at the 87th Geneva International Motor Show from March 7 to 19, 2017. Developed from a concept car first debuted in 2013, the all-electric sportscar is a precursor to a suite of future technologies that will combine Intelligent Mobility, environmentally friendly impact and sports-car driving capabilities.

Monte Carlo provided the perfect location for Nissan to reveal its exciting new partnership with Margot Robbie. Monaco has a rich heritage in street racing and an ambitious sustainable strategy to decrease carbon emissions by 50 percent by 2030.


Detroit auto show revs up amid 'perfect' industry conditions

                A surging economy, more jobs and cheap gas: the US auto industry will celebrate a confluence of near-perfect conditions as it unveils its latest wheels in the annual Detroit car show next week.

After racking up the best year in sales since 2006, the last year before the financial crisis hit, automakers will put out for display some 40 new car and truck models, hoping to seduce buyers to make 2015 even better.

The cars will be more powerful and decked out with ever-more high-tech bells and whistles that are making them safer than ever, while pushing slowly toward the day of the hands-free automobile.

Rolling onto the red carpet in Detroit will be Cadillac’s most powerful car ever, the new 640 horsepower CTS-V; Lexus’s GS F performance sedan; a brand-new version of the legendary Acura NSX; and possibly the next-generation Ford supercar.

 Workers rushing to finish a job ahead of the opening of the 2015 Detroit show.

Pickup fans will be wowed with the all-new Nissan Titan and Toyota Tacoma trucks.

The struggling green-car sector will also have badly needed fresh offerings in the form of a redesigned GM Volt, and Hyundai’s hybrid and plug-in Sonatas.

The show, the premier auto exposition in the United States, will also see the return of Chinese makers, absent for several years after self-imposed exile, with Guangzhou Auto presenting a new car - which will not be sold in the United States.

The impressive array going on display underscores how the American consumer is enjoying the richest, most diverse range of choices from the Detroit “Big 3“ - General Motors, Ford and Chrysler, now renamed FCA US - and European and Asian producers.

With gas prices at their lowest in six years, interest rates rock-bottom, and the US economy and household worth growing steadily, “we’re almost in a perfect storm,” said Joe Vitale, industry analyst at consultant Deloitte.

“When you look at all those factors, one it’s a good time to be a consumer, two there’s liquidity out there for the purchase of vehicles, three there’s aging of the vehicle population.

“All these things make it very desirable for the auto industry over the coming year.”

 The Audi section with products waiting to be put together for the show.

The North American International Automobile Show - to give it its full name - expects a million visitors to descend on bone-chilling Detroit between Jan 17 and 25.

Some 20 manufacturers will compete for the spotlight in a US market that has been a bright spot in a world where other economies are struggling to grow.

The industry is coming off a year of sales of at least 16.5 million cars and trucks in the United States, up 5.9 percent from 2013, according to Autodata, an industry consultant.

General Motors led the pack with sales of 2.94 million units; Ford was second at 2.48 million, Toyota close behind with 2.37 million, and FCA US, the former American Chrysler marque now owned by Italy’s Fiat, selling 2.09 million cars and trucks.

GM chief executive Mary Barra predicted Thursday that sales in 2015 could reach a buoyant 17 million vehicles, a level last seen in 2001.

“The US economy and vehicle sales have been rebounding since 2009 and we believe there is still plenty of room for the auto industry to grow,” she said.

But for all the expected razzmatazz, the show does not open under absolutely clear skies.

After a record year of recalls in the US, some 60 million cars in total, many for life-threatening defects, automakers will be under pressure to demonstrate a greater commitment to car quality and consumer safety.

GM is especially under the gun, having been shown at the beginning of 2014 to have known about a faulty ignition for more than a decade before taking action.

At least 42 people died in crashes tied to that problem and the company is facing criminal investigation even as it pays out millions of dollars to settle claims.

The other cloud over the industry is the receding demand for energy-saving vehicles as gasoline prices sink.

Sales growth overall has been heaviest in the pickup truck and sports utility vehicle segments, while sagging for electrics and hybrids.

Demand for such vehicles “has been somewhat disappointing for the auto companies,” said Martin Zimmerman, a former economist at Ford and now professor at Michigan University.

With the companies under regulatory pressure to reduce the fuel consumption averages of their fleets, the lackadaisical demand for electrics poses a problem for them, according to Zimmerman.

Both automakers and regulators “are going to have to come to terms with these lower oil prices,” he said.