South Korea radar and thermal camera system warns ‘smartphone zombies’ of traffic

A researcher at Korea Institute of Civil Engineering and Building Technology showing an application 'Watch Out' that alerts a distracted smartphone user. The message reads: 'A car is approaching from the left, watch out for the car'. — Reuters
ILSAN (South Korea): A city in South Korea, which has the world's highest smartphone penetration rate, has installed flickering lights and laser beams at a road crossing to warn "smartphone zombies" to look up and drivers to slow down, in the hope of preventing accidents.

The designers of the system were prompted by growing worry that more pedestrians glued to their phones will become casualties in a country that already has some of the highest road fatality and injury rates among developed countries.

State-run Korea Institute of Civil Engineering and Building Technology (KICT) believes its system of flickering lights at zebra crossings can warn both pedestrians and drivers.

In addition to red, yellow and blue LED lights on the pavement, "smombies" – smartphone zombies – will be warned by laser beam projected from power poles and an alert sent to the phones by an app that they are about to step into traffic.

The multi-dimensional warning system is operated by radar sensors and thermal cameras and comes with a price tag of 15 million won (RM54,066) per crossing.

 A warning sign is projected next to a zebra crossing in Ilsan. The sign reads: "Stop! A vehicle is coming now". — Reuters

Drivers are alerted by the flashing lights, which have shown to be effective 83.4% of the time in the institute's tests involving about 1,000 vehicles.

In 2017, more than 1,600 pedestrians were killed in auto related accidents, which is about 40% of total traffic fatalities, according to data from the Traffic Accident Analysis System.

South Korea has the world’s highest smartphone penetration rate, according to Pew Research Center, with about 94% of adults owning the devices in 2017, compared with 77% in the United States and 59% in Japan.

For now, the smombie warning system is installed only in Ilsan, a suburban city about 30 km northwest of the capital, Seoul, but is expected to go nationwide, according to the institute.

Kim Dan-hee, a 23-year-old resident of Ilsan, welcomed the system, saying she was often too engrossed in her phone to remember to look at traffic.

"This flickering light makes me feel safe as it makes me look around again, and I hope that we can have more of these in town,” she said.


Barbie's new pink Maserati SUV met with gasps of delight and disgust

                ROME: Two Maserati Grecale SUVs produced by the factory in vivid Barbie pink have drawn praise from many motoring journalists, but have also upset some diehard fans of the Trident marque.

Writing for Road & Track magazine, senior editor Chris Perkins lamented: "Maserati, that font of Italian cool, a company that gave us grand prix legends, the Birdcage, the Mistral, the Khamsin, and so many other great cars, is teaming up with the Barbie brand for a ghastly one-off."

"And to add insult to injury, the car costs US$330,000; that's US$227,500 (roughly five times) more than the Grecale Trofeo it's based on," wrote the journalist.

"As the market for a very expensive, very pink crossover is unsurprisingly very small, Maserati will only build two Barbie Grecales," said Thomas Hundal of the Autopian website, who said he liked the car.

Maserati said that part of the sale price of one car will benefit the Barbie Dream Gap Project, the Barbie brand’s ongoing global initiative that partners with charities to help provide equal opportunities and remove barriers for girls. The second vehicle will be sold off later.

The Barbie SUV has the range-topping 523-hp twin-turbo V6 engine for lively performance. "With that kind of power, and the space of an SUV… you'll make it to any event quickly, and as stylish as Barbie would arrive," said Lalita Chemello, writing for automotive industry website Jalopnik.

The pink Grecale will certainly turn heads. Released under the Trident's Fuoriserie customisation programme, the exterior carries Barbie logos and has been sealed with an iridescent topcoat that reveals "an incredible rainbow effect on a beautiful sunny day"

The Italian maker said Maserati and Barbie had "unleashed their creativity in a masterpiece of timeless design and bold character, inspired by the Barbiecore phenomenon."

The black interior features full-leather seats, dashboards, carpets, and doors – accented with pink stitching – as well as branded headrests with the "B" badge.

Viknesh Vijayenthiran, who writes for the Motoring Authority website, was also upbeat, calling the Barbie Maserati "pretty in pink".

"Barbie normally gets around in a convertible, but if she ever drove a crossover it would probably look like the Barbie Maserati Grecale limited edition."


Honda opens Silicon Valley facility to advance connected mobility

 The new Silicon Valley facility of Honda.

SAN FRANCISCO: Honda marked the opening of its new Silicon Valley R&D facility last week, using the occasion to unveil a refreshed 2016 Accord featuring Honda's first application of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

It also announced a new open innovation R&D initiative, Honda Xcelerator, which will provide resources to breakthrough technology innovators to help rapidly develop prototypes with the potential to transform the automotive experience.

Honda's Silicon Valley operation, which was first established in 2000, is charged with researching and prototyping innovations and harnessing new ideas and technology.

Current areas of focus include connected mobility, novel human-machine interfaces, supporting app developers through initiatives like Honda Developer Studio and computer science research for vehicle intelligence.

Silicon Valley engineers also spearhead the company's working relationship with Silicon Valley-based technology companies.

"As an industry, we are on the verge of some major transformational changes brought on by the convergence of what have been, to this point, largely disparate technology disciplines," said Honda R&D Americas President, Frank Paluch.

"Honda will embrace and help lead this convergence. Our operations in Silicon Valley are a testimony to our focus on this new direction in our product and technology development efforts."

Leveraging technology created in Silicon Valley, the 2016 Accord will be the first Honda model and among the first high-volume cars in the marketplace to feature both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, among major upgrades that will make the 2016 Accord the most high-tech Accord in history.

For model year 2016, the reigning best-selling car in California also will receive Honda Sensing, the suite of safety and driver-assistive technologies that helps reduce driver workload and avoid or mitigate the severity of a vehicle collision.

Honda Sensing also serves as both a technological and perceptual bridge to the highly automated cars of the future. Honda is the first major automaker to publicly reveal a high-volume model in Silicon Valley.


Volkswagen offers Walnut Blasting Decarboniser service

                KUALA LUMPUR: Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM) has introduced a new aftersales service – Walnut Blasting Decarboniser, now available at all authorised dealerships.

As part of the Volkswagen Cares initiative, this service is available from as low as RM515 and is recommended as a preventive measure every 45,000km.

VPCM says that the procedure can take a minimum of one hour to complete, but will depend on the severity of the buildup.

The procedure uses walnut shells to gently remove carbon build-up on the back of the intake valves for a cleaner and smoother drive.

Recognised and approved by Volkswagen AG, this method is economical, efficient and non-corrosive, without the use of harmful chemicals.

All cars with a direct injection petrol engine will produce carbon deposits as a by-product of the combustion process, which can lead to sluggish engine performance and is further aggravated by stop-go city driving.

Over the years, this causes a build-up of black soot that hardens around the back of the intake valves and can engine causes restrictions that result in a loss of power, overheating and higher fuel consumption.

Aside from the Electronic Power Control and Engine Warning lights, other symptoms include rough idling, poor acceleration, engine knocking and misfires.

VPCM managing director Erik Winter said that this service addition is part of the ongoing effort under the Volkswagen Cares promise.

“We are continuously looking for ways to improve our services and offerings to our customers under the VW Cares brand promise to provide value-added and quality services. This is one of many to come.“

Shock absorbers

Existing owners can enjoy a complimentary check at Volkswagen service centres, while those who are due for an absorber change will receive an additional 20% discount off the retail price. This discount is applicable on genuine Volkswagen shock absorbers and coil springs.

Tyres

As part of the ongoing tyre promotion which has been extended till the end of the year, enjoy low priced high-quality durable tyres from as low as RM184 and get additional benefits such as free installation, alignment and balancing depending on the different tyre packages.

Battery

Those in need of a battery change will receive 20% discount off new batteries starting from RM365 (depending on model), under the ongoing battery promotion, which has also been extended till the end of the year.

Volkswagen owners can download the Volkswagen Cares mobile app to stay updated on other Volkswagen Cares initiatives.


Upcoming Rolls Royce Ghost gets Planar suspension for even more refined drive

                LONDON: Rolls-Royce has done away with pre-existing platforms and has instead taken three years to develop its new Planar system.

The system comprised three elements that include an Upper Wishbone Damper unit mounted above the front suspension assembly that provides more stability and an effortless ride.

The second element is the Flagbearer system which uses cameras to read the road ahead and prepare the suspension system for any changes in the road's surfaces.

The third is Satellite Aided Transmission, which draws GPS data to pre-select the optimum gear for upcoming corners.

The system in its entirety allows the new Ghost to anticipate and react to even the most demanding road surfaces.

During the engineering design process, new Ghost’s chassis and suspension specialists were tasked with regularly presenting the technical advances they had made to other departments, as well as showcasing how these developments met the client brief - to deliver a motor car that they could use even more; something even more refined to be driven in and even more enjoyable to drive.

Rolls-Royce revealed elements of these internal briefings to highlight the engineering substance that went into the new car ahead of its unveiling in autumn.

“When it came to creating a new Ghost, we pushed our architecture even further and created a car even more dynamic, luxurious and effortlessly useable,” said new Ghost engineering lead Jonathan Simms.

The marque chose the popular and aesthetically appealing medium of animated illustrations to convey these insights. Rendered first by renowned illustrator, Charlie Davis, they were animated to cohesively and beautifully represent these findings in a fashion that befits the highly progressive new Ghost.


Ford Everest earns 5 stars from Asean NCAP

                BANGKOK: The  Ford Everest SUV has earned a maximum 5-star safety rating from the ASEAN New Car Assessment Program (NCAP).

It achieved the highest score for Adult Occupant Protection in its segment at 15.38/16 points. Its 4-star rating for Child Occupant Protection was also the highest in its segment, at 81 percent compliance.

Led by Ford’s Asia Pacific design and product development teams, the new Everest was designed from the ground up to offer an unmatched level of occupant protection in both active and passive safety features.These technologies also improve the driving experience on- and off-road as well as helping to protect other road users.

The new Everest comes with a body-on-frame design that assures the torsional strength required for challenging terrains, and Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and Roll Stability Control (RSC) are two core technologies that help give Everest drivers confidence and peace of mind on and off the road. ESC also enables Hill Descent Control, one of the Everest’s headline off-roading features, as well as Emergency Brake Assist, Trailer Sway Control and segment-first Curve Control which takes advantage of ESC to help the driver stay in control when misjudging a curve in the road.The new Everest also offers an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD).

The tested model is equipped with seven airbags and ISOFIX for child seat attachment. The Everest Trend sold in Australia was the variant used for the Asean NCAP evaluation. This is comparable to the Trend sold in the Philippines and Vietnam, and the Titanium sold in Thailand. Specific feature availability varies by market. The Everest competes against the Toyota Fortuner, Isuzu MU-X, Mitsubishi Pajero Sport and Chevrolet Trailblazer

“The new Everest delivers on Ford’s commitment to meet and exceed high customer expectations for a smarter, safer and more capable medium SUV,” said Ford Asean  president Mark Kaufman.

The new Everest is built at Ford’s AutoAlliance Thailand joint-venture in Rayong, Thailand, and will be launched in Malaysia in the coming months.


5 reasons to lust after Tesla Model S

                Ahh, what can we say of a revolutionary car? The Tesla Model S is early out of the gate to evangelise the future of mobility as few know it yet. Here are some brief thoughts on the Model S electric car after seven hours on the road with it.

1. Torque in an instant
This is the one thing that gets to you first when you step on it. The full-on torque comes on as quickly as flipping on a light switch. Maybe faster.

2. The looks
It has that luxury sports car appearance that should appeal to a wide cross-section of the population. Provided the price is right.

3. Look ma, no tailpipe pollution
Clean and silent. No noxious gases to taint an already damaged planet.

4. Storage aplenty
Ample storage in the boot, under the bonnet and four cupholders as shown in test car.

5. A different lifestyle
No more going to the petrol station to fuel up. Treat your car like your cellphone. Top up the charge as and when necessary, get feature upgrades over the air. And monitor or control some car features via phone apps.


Strong orders at Ferrari set to support growth after record 2021

                MILAN: Ferrari has orders stretching into 2023 after delivering a record number of cars last year, chief executive Benedetto Vigna said today, reflecting a surge in demand for luxury vehicles despite the Covid-19 pandemic.

That demand allowed Ferrari to predict a rise in its core earnings this year, in the wake of record results in 2021.

"We have the strongest-ever order book in our history, up double digits versus the prior year and covering well into 2023," Vigna told analysts, presenting the annual results after taking charge of the company last September with a task to lead it into a new era of cleaner, quieter and interconnected mobility.

Shipments jumped 22% to 11,155 cars last year compared to Covid-hit 2020 and were up 10% from pre-pandemic 2019, the company said.

All regions saw double-digit growth, supported by strong sales of 8-cylinder models, including the F8 family as well as the 205,000-euro Roma grand tourer and the 430,000-euro hybrid SF90 Stradale. Shipments of more powerful but also more polluting 12-cylinder models fell.

Ferrari plans two new models this year, including the much-awaited Purosangue, its first sport utility vehicle (SUV), completing a plan to launch a total of 15 new vehicles it had announced in 2018.

Ferrari, whose "Prancing Horse" brand is known worldwide for roaring combustion engines, has promised its first all-electric car in 2025, while it has already rolled out three hybrid models.

In a sign of a strong demand worldwide for luxury cars, last year Rolls-Royce, owned by Germany's BMW , saw its sales soar 49% to a record and Porsche, part of Volkwagen, delivered more than 300,000 vehicles, with an increase in all regions. read more

Core profit

Ferrari on Wednesday forecast adjusted earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA) of 1.65-1.70 billion euros this year, up from 1.53 billion euros in 2021.

Last year's result was in line with a company-provided forecast of around 1.52 billion euros, and represented a 34% increase on the previous year.

The margin on adjusted EBITDA hit a higher-than-expected record of 35.9% last year. That figure is expected to slip this year to between 34.5%-35.5% the company said.

Following this strong set of results, the company paid all its employees a record performance-linked bonus for 2021 of a gross amount as much as 12,000 euros (RM57,000).

Vigna, a tech industry veteran and former top executive at chip maker STMicroelectronics, will unveil the company's future strategy at a capital markets day on June 16.

He has said that Ferrari would make technology partnerships a priority, as the company moves ahead with its electrification strategy while maintaining financial discipline.

As part of this discipline, Vigna said Ferrari would target capital expenditure of around 800 million euros this year and would seek to keep that as a peak going forward.


Aston Martin reveals Vulcan

                LONDON: The Aston Martin Vulcan will make its world debut at the 2015 Geneva motor show.

The Vulcan is a track-only supercar and the British luxury brand’s most intense and exhilarating creation to date.

The new all-carbon fibre supercar – limited to just 24 examples worldwide – is powered by the most potent iteration yet of the company’s naturally-aspirated, 7.0-litre V12 petrol engine with 800-plus bhp.

This front mid-engined, rear-wheel drive sports car draws extensively on the brand’s rich GT motorsport experience.

Its power-to-weight ratio exceed those of the GTE cars which compete in the FIA’s annual World Endurance Championship.

The Vulcan features a carbon fibre monocoque and body constructed by Aston Martin’s long-term specialist body engineering and manufacturing partner Multimatic, integral limited-slip differential, magnesium torque tube with carbon fibre propeller shaft and Brembo racing calipers acting on carbon ceramic racing disc brakes.

Drive is channelled to the 345/30 x19 rear wheels and Michelin race specification tyres through a rear mid-mounted Xtrac six-speed sequential shift gearbox.

“I believe the Vulcan – and the unique ownership programme that sits behind it – sets a whole new standard in the ultra-high luxury supercar class,” said Aston Martin CEO Dr Andy Palmer.


Taiwan's Pegatron to build Tesla parts plant in Texas, says report

Apple supplier Pegatron sees electric vehicles as a major source of growth in coming years. — Reuters
TAIPEI: Taiwan’s Pegatron has chosen a site in El Paso, Texas, to build a plant that will provide components for Tesla Inc, Taiwanese newspaper the Commercial Times reported today.

The company said that details of its overseas plant investments, including timing, location and investment amounts, were still in the planning stages.

Pegatron said in November that it would set up a factory in the United States to be closer to its clients there.

Pegatron is best known as a key supplier for Apple Inc, but it has said it sees electric vehicles as a major source of growth in coming years.


Hail the Ferrari 488 Spider

MARANELLO: Ferrari has just revealed the 488 Spider, its most powerful ever mid-rear-engined V8 car to feature the patented retractable hard top.

Ferrari was the first car maker to introduce the RHT (Retractable Hard Top) on a car of this particular architecture. This solution ensures lower weight (-25 kg) and better cockpit comfort compared to the classic fabric soft-top.

Just like all previous spider versions of Ferrari’s models, this is a car that is aimed squarely at people looking for open-air motoring pleasure in a high-performance sports car with an unmistakable Ferrari engine sound.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?&v=1TPOcbDnquY

Ferrari said the car has been designed to set new technological benchmarks for the sector: from the aluminium spaceframe chassis and bodyshell to the new turbo-charged V8, aerodynamics that reconcile the need for greater downforce with reduced drag along with the specific cabin air flow demands of an open-top car, and vehicle dynamics that render it fast, agile and responsive.

Beneath the engine cover throbs the 3902cc turbo-charged V8 that debuted just a few months ago on

The car uses the same 3.9 litre engine as the recently introduced 488 GTB. The engine produces peak output of 660hp combined with maximum torque of 760Nm at 3000 rpm send the 488 Spider sprinting from 0 to 100 km/h in 3 seconds and from 0 to 200 km/h in 8.7 seconds.

This is also an efficient engine as it is not only 99hp more powerful than the previous naturally-aspirated V8 but also has lower CO2 emissions.

The turbo V8 has a unique character, delivering increasing levels of power right across the rev range, and eliminating the traditional turbo lag with a throttle response time of 0.8 seconds.

In line with Ferrari tradition, this model has its own soundtrack created using solutions such as exhaust headers with longer, equal-length piping and a flat-plane crankshaft. It was also improved by an in-depth study of harmonics and tonality at different engine speeds. Ferrari boasts that the sound is “seductive but never invasive when the top is dropped, with both volume and clarity increasing as the engine instantly responds to the accelerator pedal and revs rise, reinforcing the sensation of massive performance”.

The 488 Spider will debut be at the Frankfurt International Motor Show in September.


This is how often you need to buy a new motorbike helmet

                BERLIN: Most helmets might feel like they're built for a lifetime, but soon enough comes the time when a new one is necessary, even if the old one still looks good.

Motorcyclists should always buy a new helmet after about five to seven years, according to the experts at Germany's IFZ institute for motorcycle safety.

Bicycle safety experts also suggest roughly the same time frame of around 5 years for cycling helmets - even sooner if it's been banged around lots or been in a crash.

Even well-maintained, crash-free motorbike and bike helmets that look as good as new can still pose a safety risk if they have simply become too old.

No matter how much the helmet is used, the material will start to wear in a way that you won't see from the outside. In the event of a crash, they may no longer provide sufficient protection.

So-called thermoplastic motorbike helmets should be replaced a little earlier, while thermoset helmets can last a little longer than five to seven years.

This is because even the outer shell of thermoset helmets, which is better protected against ageing, loses some of the damping quality of the inner shell. If in doubt, you're usually better off following the manufacturer's instructions.


SST on cars: Sime Darby expects auto sales to slow down in Sept before balancing out

                PETALING JAYA: Sime Darby Bhd expects a marginal rise in the prices of cars distributed following the implementation of the sales and services tax (SST) on Sept 1.

“The price of cars are expected to increase with the implementation of SST,” chief executive officer Jeffri Salim Davidson told the press after announcing the group’s full year financial results ended June 30 on Thursday.

According to him, the automotive market is expected to experience a slowdown for a month before eventually balancing out.

The possible introduction of a tax by the government on foreign cars may increase the prices as well, and the company is adopting a "wait-and-see" approach to see how the market balances out among their other competitors.

Sime Darby Motors chief financial officer Nik Muhammad Hanafi Nik Abdullah said the company is looking on how best to absorb the costs, or to pass it to the consumers.

“It would have to depend on other players in the market and on certain models [of the cars],” Nik Muhammad said.

Sime Darby is the official distributor of high-end vehicles including the BMW and MINI in Malaysia.

The company reported on Thursday a net profit of RM163mil for the fourth of financial quarter ended June 30, 2018 (4QFY18) for its continuing operations.

Its continuing operations comprise the industrial, motors, logistics and healthcare businesses after the deconsolidation of Sime Darby Plantation Bhd and Sime Darby Property Bhd last year.

Revenue for continuing operations in the 4QFY18 increased 4.6% to RM8.58bil.


Meet Jean-Dominique Senard, Renault's new boss

Senard (left) delivering a speech next to new chief executive Bollore during a press conference at Renault's headquarters near Paris on Thursday. — AFP
PARIS: Renault appointed Michelin boss Jean-Dominique Senard as its new chairman on Thursday, after Carlos Ghosn was forced to resign in the wake of a financial scandal that has rocked the French carmaker and its alliance with Japan’s Nissan.

Senard will become chairman immediately, the company said, with deputy chief executive Thierry Bollore taking over Ghosn’s other Renault role as full CEO.

The appointments may begin to ease a Renault-Nissan leadership crisis that erupted after Ghosn’s Nov. 19 arrest in Japan and swift dismissal as Nissan chairman.

Senard, 65, now faces the task of soothing relations with Nissan and resuming talks on a new alliance structure to cement the 20-year-old partnership.

“It’s important that this alliance remain extremely strong,” Senard told reporters after a board meeting - citing the mounting investment demands of new vehicle technologies. “It is our compulsory duty to go forward together.”

Nissan welcomed the leadership change, which CEO Hiroto Saikawa said would open a “new chapter” for the partnership.

The announcement also marks a clear end to one of the auto industry’s most feted careers, two decades after Ghosn was despatched by former Renault boss Louis Schweitzer to rescue newly acquired Nissan from near-bankruptcy - a feat he pulled off in two years.

After 14 years as Renault CEO and a decade as chairman, Ghosn formally resigned from both roles on the eve of the board meeting.


Auction of special licence plates to be done online and made transparent

Members of the public looking at names of successful bidders for special number plates in this file pic. This is the current practice to bid for special number plates that the ministry hopes to improve upon.
KUALA LUMPUR: Bids for special number plates will be done online to ensure better transparency in the process, says Transport Minister Anthony Loke.

The ministry, said Loke, was looking into ways to further enhance the process to bid for these special number plates online to be more transparent and dynamic.

“Compared with the current manual tender system, the online one will be beneficial and convenient for the people.

“People would be able to see the bidding offers made by others through this system, and (interested) bidders can also increase the bid based on what they can afford or what others have offered,” he said in reply to Ma'mun Sulaiman (PH-Kalabakan), who asked if the Road Transport Department (JPJ) could set up a new system that was more transparent for the registration of new vehicle number plates.

He also wanted to know if the ministry intended to set a ceiling price for the special number plates that were in high demand. Loke said the system would also enable the bidders to see the winner of the special number plate auction when it is announced. He said people no longer had to go to the JPJ counters to submit their tender forms, and could instead complete it at their own convenience.

In order to ensure a safe and effective online biding system, the ministry, said Loke, would conduct detailed studies to develop the specifications and workflow process for the system.

The ministry would also get advice from the Malaysian Administrative Modernisation and Management Planning Unit (Mampu), which had expertise in information technology, to give its views on developing the online bidding system, he added.

“The entire process is expected to be completed in three to six months. The ministry (expects) the system to be complete and can be used early next year,” said Loke.

Loke added that the ministry had no plans to place ceiling prices on the registration of special number plates because these would be awarded to the highest bidder and would be done in a transparent and open manner. “It also adds revenue to the government. If the ceiling price is set, it would contradict the principles of an open tender,” he said.

To a supplementary question, Loke said a minimum price was set for the special numbers because otherwise they would appear to have no value. “So it is best to place a minimum price (for these numbers) and let the tender system take place.

“For your information, these numbers have the potential to generate a lot of revenue for the government. For example, when the (Pakatan) government took over and introduced the Malaysia number plate series, it managed to generate RM1.11mil,” he added.

Loke also said that, previously, special number plates auctions were done by non-governmental organisations (NGOs). He said when their requests were approved, they would pay RM1mil to the government but then the number plates could generate more than RM10mil.

“For the government, RM1mil is nothing. Many NGOs requested to have these special number plates. They say they will organise programmes (with the money received from the sales of the number plates), so who is benefiting? Under the new government, the issuance of special numbers is under the government,” he said.


Honda CBR500R and CB500F introduced

                KUALA LUMPUR: Boon Siew Honda has announced the introduction its latest 500cc in two offerings, namely the CBR500R and naked CB500F.

In standard form, the CB500F has been priced with GST at RM31,363.28 while the CBR500R costs RM31,681.28 - both are accompanied by a two-year or 20,000km manufacturer's warranty (which ever comes first) and three colour options of Millennium Red, Matt Gunpowder Black or Lemon Ice Yellow (new).

For an additional RM3,498, the bikes can also be had as a variant that includes anti-lock braking system (ABS).

Both bikes use the same 471cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin motor fed by a 16.7-litre fuel tank to produce 49.6hp at 8,500rpm and 44Nm of torque at 7,000rpm and is mated to a six-speed manual with a wet multi-plate clutch.

Although both bikes share the same 1,410mm wheelbase at 1,410mm, 25.3-degree caster angle and 2,080mm-length, the CB500F's trailing arm is 1mm-longer at 102mm than it's fared CBR500R sibling.

Furthermore, the CB500F is the lightest of the two at 188kg (kerb) and is also the widest at 790mm and shortest at 1,060mm-tall versus the 192kg (kerb) CBR500R at 750mm-wide and 1,145mm-tall.

The bikes roll on 17-inch wheels fitted with 120/70 (front) and 160/60 (rear) tyres.

A single front and rear disc provides stopping power as the adjustable front telescopic and rear pro-link mono-shock absorbers take care of ride and handling.

They have also been fitted with LED headlamp, LED rear light, wave-key, sports muffler and adjustable front fork and front-brake-lever (5 points of adjustments).

The new CBR500R and CB500F will be available in Impian Honda Shop from May 23 onwards.

For more information call toll-free 1800-88-3993 (Mon - Fri from 8am to 5pm, excluding public holiday) or visit www.facebook.com/HondaMotorcyclesMalaysiaBoonSiewHonda.


Automatic-braking failures sow doubts over safety tech’s rollout

                WASHINGTON: Automatic emergency braking systems were once touted as a life-saving leap in automobile safety, so promising that carmakers agreed six years ago to include them in nearly all their vehicles by this fall.

Yet reports of hundreds of vehicles suddenly stopping on the road has raised questions about whether regulators should have been required to draw up minimum standards before the systems were built into cars.

The US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has opened defect investigations in the past two weeks of cars made by Honda Motor Corp. and Tesla Inc. and equipped with automatic emergency braking systems.

“We need a federal safety standard that ensures proper” automatic braking system performance, said Michael Brooks, acting executive director and chief counsel of the Center for Auto Safety.

“NHTSA enforcement is cleaning up the room when effective standards could have prevented a mess.”

The Obama administration struck a deal in 2016 with 20 automakers that agreed to voluntarily equip at least 95% of their passenger vehicles with automatic emergency braking by September 2022.

But specific standards weren’t mandated and Congress, as part of the infrastructure legislation, last year ordered NHTSA to craft regulations for crash avoidance technologies such as automatic emergency braking and forward collision warning systems.

“NHTSA and industry chose the voluntary route which only focuses on the numbers of AEB installed, rather than how well they function, so here we are facing the inevitable,” Brooks said.

NHTSA probes

The issue emerged in recent weeks when NHTSA began a preliminary evaluation of unexpected braking by Tesla Model 3 sedans and Model Y sport utility vehicles on Feb 16 that the agency said covers about 416,000 cars.

The inquiry began after the agency received 354 complaints from car owners. No injuries or accidents were reported.

NHTSA announced the defect investigation of Hondas on Feb 21, saying it received 278 complaints, six of them linked to collisions with minor injuries. The evaluation of Hondas involves 1.73 million Accord sedans and CR-V SUVs.

“The problem with false activations is you never know what is going to cause it,” said David Zuby, chief research officer at the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.

American Honda Motor Company, Inc. said in a statement that it is committed to safety and will “cooperate with the NHTSA through the investigation process.”

Tesla, which has disbanded its media relations department, didn’t respond to a request for comment on the probe.

Most automatic emergency braking systems use radar or cameras to scan for signs of humans or other vehicles. Previous misfires have been attributed to systems confusing expansion joints in bridges, metal plates or an inability to work properly in darkness or fog, Zuby said.

NHTSA said it is working on a rule that would satisfy the congressional mandate to require cars to be equipped with automatic braking and establish a test procedure under which compliance could be measured.

“The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law includes numerous directives to the agency related to vehicle safety, including the one related automatic emergency braking technology for passenger vehicles, and NHTSA is working expeditiously to meet the congressional mandates,” NHTSA said in a statement.

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety said 12 automakers were including automatic emergency braking on at least 90% of their vehicles as of 2021, including both Tesla and Honda.

The group said it expects all 20 automakers to ultimately meet the deadline, but for now five of the 20 automakers who participated in the initial deal had equipped fewer than 75% of their cars with automatic emergency braking.

Zuby said he remains confident in the effectiveness of the automatic braking technology, despite the recent probes.

Safety enhancements

“All the studies we have done show vehicles that are equipped with AEB have fewer crashes than vehicles that are not equipped with AEB,” he said.

The Centre for Auto Safety’s Brooks said of the recent Tesla and Honda inquiries about unintended braking that “enforceable minimum performance standards could have addressed these false activation events before they occurred, in the design and testing phase.”

“To ensure that AEB continues to perform reliably and safely as pedestrian protection features become more available, we recommend that NHTSA move speedily to implement both passenger and heavy vehicle AEB performance standards,” he said.

Zuby said he is confident false activations can be addressed in a way that allows carmakers to still harness the safety benefits of automatic emergency braking systems.

“It may be that we need more clever programming or different sensors, but I think there are technological solutions to minimise the risk of false activation,” he added.


Duo arrested after HK$3.7mil Lamborghini slams into side of HK flyover

                HONG KONG: Hong Kong police have detained a man and woman on suspicion of perverting the course of justice after their HK$3.7 million (RM2.2mil) sports car slammed into the side of a flyover.

The Lamborghini Gallardo Coupe was approaching Western Harbour Tunnel on Connaught Road West at about 7am on Sunday. But the driver crashed shortly before entering, leaving the pair with minor injuries.

The woman, 39, told officers who arrived at the scene she had been behind the wheel. But after investigation, police suspect it was the 36-year-old man who was driving at the time. Both passed breathalyser tests.

They were arrested on suspicion of perverting the course of justice. They have not been charged and were released on bail, with a requirement to report back to authorities next month. They were treated for their injuries at a hospital.

The woman reportedly bought the Lamborghini Gallardo Coupe for HK$3.7 million in 2009.

An online clip from a dashboard camera in another vehicle in the area at the time of the incident showed more than 10 sports cars racing along the road to the tunnel. — South China Morning Post


New clicketty-click turn signals make car 'faces' more expressive

                HAMBURG: Whenever a driver activates a turn signal, a rhythmic clicking sound comes on; without having to look at the display, any driver knows that their blinker is flashing.

The clicking sound used to be inherent in an electrical component, but has been long since unnecessary from a technical point of view, since modern-day turn signals operate electronically. But the blinker noise has been kept because it is familiar.

Similarly, the LED technology featured on today’s new cars opens up a whole new array of configurations, movement and locations on car’s chassis, but some traditions may have to be respected.

As automakers strive to develop unique and striking designs, turn signals have become important design features, and a place for manufacturers and suppliers to take advantage of greater leeway and invest more personality in their products.

Philipp Schreiber of a major German safety inspection agency notes that sonic indicators are not legally required on cars and "an optical signal would suffice, but the sound is most definitely useful."

Lane changes are a good example: even after changing lanes, the clicking sound continues, reminding drivers to switch the signal off again.

Indicators on vehicles evolved in the 1920s. Suppliers developed turn signals, which consisted of electromagnets and 20-centimetre-long illuminated indicator arms that emerged from a vehicle’s body at the sides. These were regular features of traffic until the 50s, when electric turn blinkers rendered them obsolete.

"LED technology has undoubtedly brought about the greatest change in vehicle lighting technology," says Steffen Pietzonka from supplier Hella. This applies both to lighting technology itself, as well as to lights’ arrangement and shape.

"In the past, the direction indicators were always installed at fixed positions in the wing or in the bumper," says Pietzonka. These days, flexible LED technology offers far more placement options.

LED lights are flat, which means that they require minimal space and are easily customisable. As a result, turn signals now appear as waves and flows, which can be moulded into the vehicle lines and can decisively influence the "face" of a car.

"Individualisation plays a very important role for the car manufacturer when it comes to turn signals," says Pietzonka. One example is the "sliding" turn signal from Audi, while animated lighting has become a general trend.

A further advantage is being able to add lateral turn signals to the casings of side mirrors. Since the space-saving LEDs have come to market, almost all new cars have acquired extra turn signals on these rear-view mirrors.

As a consequence, tinkerers and DIY specialists have a lot less to do: the regular replacement of an incandescent lamp is no longer necessary, since, according to Pietzonka, "today's generation of LEDs usually last a lifetime."

In addition, the technology is also energy efficient.

According to Pietzonka, a single red LED would suffice to light up a tail lamp, but even so, manufacturers usually use a large number of LEDS to make the lights so each car will have its own trademark lighting shape.


Jeep previews Easter Jeep Safari concepts

Jeep Moab Easter Safari concept teaser image.
DETROIT: For Jeep enthusiasts, Christmas really arrives each year at Easter. And that's because it's when those Jeep enthusiasts can go to the automaker's annual Moab Easter Safari event, which every year features some very exciting off-road concepts.

To ramp up the excitement ahead of this year's Moab Easter Safari, Jeep has just released a couple of teaser images of concepts that will be making their debuts at the event being held this year between March 24 and April 1.

One of the two images that have been released is quite obviously a version of the two-door 2018 Wrangler with a number of small changes from the production model. The inspiration for this concept starts to become blindingly obvious when you spot the "Jeepster" badge on the front wing.

The Jeepster Commando was a longer version of the Jeep that was around during the 1960s and 1970s. It was a little more civilized and comfortable than the regular model and had an available hardtop that featured a distinctive slant towards the rear.

This new take on the Jeepster theme appears to be a much more off-road-focused model than the Jeepster Commando, with big chunky tires, the full-size spare wheel moved inside, and petrol cans mounted to the back door.

The second of the two images also shows some kind of Wrangler, but it's hard to see what is going to make this one so different from a regular model. The front wings have been seriously scaled down and the front bumper has been removed, which seems to have been done to accommodate what appear to be some massive tyres and to allow for a great deal of suspension travel.

There's also a large scoop on the bonnet, and that could mean there's something pretty special sitting in the engine compartment of this one. LED headlights also seem to be in evidence, but that's about all we can gleam for the moment.


Modified Mitsubishi Triton and Xpander for Tokyo Auto Salon

                KUALA LUMPUR: Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia will participate in the inaugural Tokyo Auto Salon from June 9-11 at the Malaysia International Trade & Exhibition Centre (Mitec).

The company will display two modified Triton and Xpander, as well as two customers’ cars that are modified following a lifestyle element.

Showcasing an overall sporty concept, Mitsubishi Motors’ booth will be located in Hall 3, lot C301 at Level 1.

Visitors to the Tokyo Auto Salon who test-drive a Triton or Xpander will receive Mitsubishi merchandise, and stand to participate in a lucky draw where five winners will get a Touch N Go reload pin worth RM300.

For more information, kindly visit https://tokyoautosalonkl.com/


Greentech Malaysia gets the ball rolling with Tesla Model S leasing scheme

                PETALING JAYA: Greentech Malaysia is ramping up its push for green mobility by offering the Tesla Model S electric car for lease to government-linked companies (GLCs).

According to a document posted recently at the Greentech Malaysia website, such companies can choose from three variants of the Model S namely the 70D, 90D and P90D.

The “D” stands for a Model S with an electric motor each on the front and rear axles, meaning it’s an all-wheel drive car. With its digital torque controls and low centre of gravity, Tesla claims the dual motor Model S has superior road holding and handling.

READ MORE:Hard-driving the Tesla Model S

The so-called “Tesla Model S Special Programme” is wooing GLCs with a low monthly lease of RM1,388. The lease is the same regardless which variant is chosen and minimum leasing period is 36 months.

This leasing arrangement is markedly more attractive compared to the proposed arrangement last May when Greentech indicated the monthly lease for 24 months was expected to be RM6,000.

Some of the biggest GLCs are Tenaga Nasional, Malaysia Airports Holdings and Sime Darby Bhd.

The rear-wheel drive S85, two units of which were brought into Malaysia by Greentech last year for trials, is no longer available from Tesla.

The Tesla Model S Special Programme was introduced following government approval last month to allow 100 units to be imported with duty exemptions.

Total upfront price of a 70D, for example, is around RM430,000, which includes the car price, delivery charges and 6% GST (see table above).

The monthly leasing fee includes Maxis connectivity, maintenance and services and the use of ChargEV public chargers.

Interested companies that want the Model S in their fleet would first need to register their interest online with Greentech, which will then guide them on placing their orders. After placing a US$5,000 (RM20,164) order, then the order would proceed. The car would be shipped from the United States to Malaysia via Tesla Hong Kong. It would take around four months for the car to arrive from the point of first contact with Greentech.


World’s most expensive car licence plate sells for US$15mil in Dubai

Emirates Auction LLC selling plate number P 7. — Emirates Auction LLC
DUBAI: A wealthy bidder has splashed out a world-record 55 million dirhams (US$15mil/RM66mil) for a rare car license plate in Dubai, smashing a bar set in the United Arab Emirates more than a decade ago.

Emirates Auction LLC sold plate number P 7 — which, at first glance, looks like the number 7 alone, with the P off to the side — on Saturday during a charity auction, according to the company.

Proceeds will go to Dubai ruler Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid’s global food aid initiative, the 1 Billion Meals Endowment.

The UAE has made a habit of auctioning off vanity plates, used by the ultra-rich to show off their status and wealth, for charity.

The latest auction broke a record set in 2008 by local businessman Saeed Abdul Ghaffar Khouri, who paid 52.2 million dirhams (RM63mil) for a plate bearing the number 1 in Abu Dhabi.

The identity of this weekend’s auction winner was not disclosed.

Vanity plates have also fetched eye-watering prices outside the Middle East: Someone bought the single-letter “R” plate at auction in Hong Kong earlier this year for HK$25.5 million (RM14.3mil).

For years, Dubai has been a safe space for the mega-wealthy to flash their wealth and live a tax-free lifestyle.

While other parts of the world worry about an economic downturn, the emirate’s economy remains strong — with high oil prices benefitting its neighbors and most important customers. An influx of wealth has buoyed the real-estate market.

Even moderately-paid expats splash out on cars they can newly afford thanks to lower sales tax rates than back home. But the recent Covid-era boom has driven up rents and squeezed middle-class residents.

Businessman Balvinder Singh Sahni, known as Abu Sabah, bought plate D 5 in 2016 for 33 million dirhams (RM40mil). “Dubai is a city of gold,” he said in an interview Monday.

“It’s a city of big people, secure people, nice people. So everybody wants to show their status.”

Sahni told of how when he first visited the luxury hotel Burj Al Arab in 2006, he was refused entry because his car license plate had too many numbers.

He was told he needed either a two-digit number plate — or a reservation.

“It was always my dream to have a single-digit number,” he said.

“When I got the chance, and they told me this money all goes to charity, I went all in.”

A self-described numbers guy, Sahni said the D 5 plate fit because his favorite number is nine, and if you add D (the fourth letter of the alphabet) with five, you get nine.

The Guinness World Records did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

The plate sold over the weekend can be transferred to any car registered in the emirate, supercar or not.


Audi favours electric cars, services in new strategy, say sources

                MUNICH: Audi will boost spending on digital technologies and electric cars over the next decade, sources at the German carmaker said, as it follows parent Volkswagen  in reshaping its business in the wake of the diesel emissions scandal.

Volkswagen's (VW) main profit contributor plans to invest about a third of its R&D budget which totaled 4.24 billion euros (US$4.69 billion) in 2015, in digital services, electric cars and autonomous driving by 2025, two sources at Audi said on Monday.

Audi will offer on-demand mobility services for premium customers and increase the share of electric vehicles of its overall sales to about a fourth by 2025, the sources said. The Ingolstadt-based brand sold a record 1.8 million cars last year.

Chief executive Rupert Stadler plans to outline details of Audi's new business roadmap to more than 2,000 managers on Wednesday at a closed-door conference here, the sources said.

A spokesman at Audi declined comment. German business daily Handelsblatt reported late on Monday about Audi's transformation plans.

To free up funds for the new strategy, Audi plans retrenchments in its conventional car programme including steps to reduce country-specific engine and transmission variants, the sources said, without being more specific.

The changes come as three US states plan to unveil new lawsuits against Volkswagen today tied to the automaker's sale of diesel vehicles with emissions-cheating software, even after they announced settlements with the German automaker in June.

VW last month announced plans to spend billions of euros on electric cars, ride-hailing and automated driving to become a world leader in green transport by 2025.


Toyota completes Africa stage of 5 Continents Drive Project

                CAPE TOWN, South Africa: The Toyota team in the 5 Continents Drive Project has finished the Africa stage, and from spring 2019, the project will move to Asia and embark on the final stage, starting in the Middle East.

Launched in 2014, the project has now covered four of the world's continents.

Besides Toyota employees, members from Suzuki Motor Corp, Hino Motors Ltd, and Toyota Auto Body Co Ltd also participated in the Africa stage; a total of 76 people covered 10,600km in two months.

The team drove across Africa's diverse and wide-ranging roads, where they experienced first-hand the harsh conditions in which vehicles were used.

As a result, team members were moved to consider what it meant to make "ever-better cars," and exchanged views with their colleagues.

Driving across a variety of harsh, unpaved roads beset by severe unevenness, sharp stones, corrugated road surfaces, and desert, the team was made to recognise the value of reliability, durability, and comfort.

Even on paved surfaces, Africa presented a unique road environment: long straights, frequent animal crossings, large potholes that appear out of nowhere, speed bumps, and overtaking by many heavy, overloaded trucks.

These circumstances impressed upon the team the importance of braking performance, high-speed stability, and power and torque.

The 5 Continents Drive Project is a genchi genbutsu project (where employees go to the source to get the facts) carried out under the umbrella of Toyota Gazoo Racing.

Toyota employees from Japan team up with local affiliates, take the wheels of the cars themselves, and drive the roads used daily by their customers.

By participating in the project, team members increase their knowledge of the world's roads, listen to customer feedback, encounter global cultures first-hand, and together find solutions to numerous problems and challenges.

Such experiences enable them to hone their intuition for making ever-better cars in a manner that cannot be replicated at a desk or on test courses, and thereby contribute to the development of human resources.

The 5 Continents Drive Project commenced in Australia in 2014, then moved to North America in 2015, Latin America in 2016, Europe in 2017, and Africa in 2018.

Since the project started, 556 members from Japan and overseas markets have covered 99,600km over 399 days.


Nissan X-Trail gets IMPUL upgrade

                KUALA LUMPUR: If you have been waiting to buy a lowered and sportier-looking X-Trail, wait no more.

Nissan distributor Edaran Tan Chong Motor (ETCM)  announced on Wednesday the IMPUL variants of the SUV.

The 2.5L 4WD Premium IMPUL is priced at RM172,516.42, and the 2.0L 2WD Premium IMPUL at RM149,715.05 (on-the-road prices with insurance).

The IMPUL package comprises newly designed front and rear bumper spoilers and side skirts, plus an all-new designed 18” IMPUL Aura SX-50 alloy wheels in unique chrome bronze and gloss black finish.

With the IMPUL Sports Springs, the vehicle ride height is lowered by 30mm to provide a more agile and responsive driving experience. Additional door visor and LED stainless steel kick plate complete the package.

“The X-Trail has a strong following in Malaysia, and we believe that adding the IMPUL touch not only heightens its appearance and driving dynamics, but will also appeal to those wanting a sporty edge to their vehicle,” said ETCM marketing and product planning director Tan Keng Meng.

Other Nissan models that have been given the IMPUL treatment locally are the X-Gear, Grand Livina and Sylphy.

Existing owners of the current X-Trail can opt for the RM15,900 IMPUL upgrade. The items in the package can be bought separately and are priced from RM424 for the door visors to RM5,830 for a set of the alloy wheels.

For the IMPUL upgrade, call 03-4047 8786 or email impul@tanchonggroup.com. More information is available at www.impul.com.my.


Saudi Aramco partners with Formula 1

                LONDON: State-owned Saudi Aramco announced a long-term global sponsorship deal with Formula One on Tuesday in what could also be another step towards the country eventually hosting a grand prix.

Aramco said the move was the energy giant's first global sponsorship of a major sporting event.

Formula One added that Aramco will be title sponsors of the US, Spanish and Hungarian Grands Prix this season with trackside branding at most races.

The oil and gas company will also feature in Formula One's integrated digital platforms and broadcasts and joins a group of six global partners along with DHL, Emirates, Heineken, Pirelli and Rolex.

Formula One said the sport and Aramco will together "identify opportunities for the advancement of sustainable fuels, enhanced engine efficiencies and emerging mobility technology."

Saudi Arabia and Formula One have been discussing the possibility of holding a race in the country for some time.

The Middle East already hosts two races, at Sakhir in Bahrain and Abu Dhabi's Yas Marina, with lucrative long-term contracts in place.

Saudi Arabia already features on the all-electric Formula E calendar and hosted its first race in 2018 on a street circuit at Ad Diriyah, near Riyadh.

Saudi companies have been involved in Formula One in the past, with Albilad and the national airline Saudia sponsoring Williams to their first title in 1980.


Melting Greenland to host first electric racing series

                LONDON: Greenland will be one of five climate-threatened locations to host the first Extreme E championship in 2021, the pioneering all-electric off-road racing series said today.

The Extreme E races will see electric sport utility vehicles (SUV) race in five of the world’s remote environments, using the global appeal of motorsports to shine a spotlight on the biggest climate threats to the planet.

“Extreme E has a strong sporting purpose to promote the adoption of electric mobility in the fight to lower global emission levels, an issue we can no longer ignore, especially here in Greenland,” said founder Alejandro Agag.

In a 10-part "docu-sport" package, Extreme E will showcase electric SUVs in head-to-head races in areas suffering from environmental damage or under threat. Fox Sports has signed a multi-year broadcast deal. There will be no spectators.

Home to the world’s second-largest ice sheet, Greenland’s accelerating melt rates have become a source of growing concern among climate experts, as well as residents who can often no longer hunt with their sled dogs on thinning ice.

Agag is the founder of the all-electric, city-based Formula E motor racing series, now in its fifth season, which features manufacturers like BMW, Audi, Nissan, Citroen and Jaguar.

Transport is responsible for 30% of the use of fossil fuels, which are the main cause of global warming, said Peter Wadhams, a professor of ocean physics at Cambridge University, who advised the race organisers.

The Greenland races will take place over three days in an area near Russell Glacier, in the central western part of the world’s largest island, E Extreme said.

“Racing over that area won’t have a harmful effect on the environment,” Wadhams said.

“But the potential awareness and education that could be generated through the powerful sporting platform will be enormous.”

E Extreme is scouting four additional endangered locations that are facing climate threats such as deforestation, rising sea levels, desertification, and plastic pollution.

WATCH: Twitter video


Conquering Sabah on the Ford Ranger

                The Ford Ranger continues to be the best seller for Ford in Malaysia and its easy to see why.

The refreshed Ford Ranger now comes with the re-designed and no less imposing front grille as well as headlamps, bumper and bonnet making its appearance bold and tough.

As pick-up trucks go, the American marque seems to have created a strong following in a local market dominated by Japanese marques in the likes of Toyota, Nissan, Isuzu, Mitsubishi and Nissan.

The Ranger, however, doesn’t just get away with good looks alone.

The vehicle is adept at both urban and off-road use, offering functionality, ease of use, and comfort.

In either 2.2-litre or 3.2-litre engine options, the facelift is boosted further with the use of shiny chrome in the grille, rear roll bar and rear bumper.

The range-topping 3.2 Wildtrak however, gets you one tougher looking truck thanks to its adoption of darker accents.

The most crucial of changes though, has been done in the cabin.

This new Ranger looks and feels just as good inside as it does outside.

Having spent most of our time in the range-topping Wildtrak, we have arrived at the conclusion that its offer of premium amenities makes it a true class winner here.

Other notable highlights include the plush partial leather seats with driver side electric seat adjustment, the new and intelligent eight-inch touchscreen infotainment unit featuring Ford’s SYNC II voice-enabled commands as well.

Things don’t feel too bad either in the mid-range 2.2XLT variant despite the absence of the plush leather seat covers and touchscreen.

All variants however, shine in the very low noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) levels.

Also, the lower spec variants feature soft-touch materials lining the cabin and includes a number of practical storage bins and cubbies.

Also, this new Ranger drives as good as it looks.

The improved powertrain feels a lot better than its predecessor and Ford claims a 12% improvement in fuel efficiency.

But the important bit here is the increased power and torque for both the 2.2-litre four-cylinder and 3.2-litre five-cylinder turbodiesel units.

The 2.2-litre pushes out 160PS at 3,200rpm with a maximum torque of 385Nm from 1,600rpm to 2,600rpm.

The 3.2-litre variant has a maximum output of 200PS at 3,000rpm and a maximum torque of 470Nm from 1,750rpm to 2,500rpm.

The six-speed automatic transmissions paired with either mills (also available in manual), operates very smoothly.

The new electric power steering has made the Ranger much easier to drive on a daily basis as it is both lighter and more precise.

Though it has the typical pick-up truck suspension setup of high-travel double-wishbones up front and leaf springs in the rear, the dampers felt sublimely soft as it soaked up bumps and road imperfections effortlessly.

And that comes without compromising too much on its off-road usability – a trait we discovered while en route to the Kinabalu National Park across both gravel paths and asphalt roads during the two-day press drive across Sabah.

No doubt, the Ranger is highly capable when taken off-the-beaten-path.

Engaging its four-wheel-drive modes is as easy as turning a knob.

And its also more than competent when you are facing a steep near-30-degree hill covered in dirt, gravel or mud. Crossing a rocky river stream?

The Ranger’s wading water levels is up to 800mm; again no issues here.

Much of these capabilities are fuelled by features like the Hill Descent Control, Hill Start Assist and Roll Over Mitigation that is primed across all variants.

The 3.2 Wildtrak has added more advanced active and passive safety features such as Lane Departure Warning and Assist, Forward Alert and Collision Mitigation system, as well as a Distance Indication Alert.

Having tested all three features on the road back to Kota Kinabalu, we can safely report that the 3.2 Wildtrak is the safest pickup truck money can buy in our market currently.

In a nutshell, the new Ford Ranger has properly defended its title as the segment’s best.

It offers better on-road drivability and comfort, exceptional off-road capability, as well as being safer and smarter.

The new Ranger starts from RM91,588 for the base Ranger 2.2XL MT; RM112,038 for the Ranger 2.2XLT AT, and RM121,588 for the Ranger 3.2XLT AT.

The Ranger 3.2 Wildtrak commands a starting figure of RM139,838.

It also comes with a three year or 100,000km manufacturer warranty.


Malaysian truck maker partners China company in move to launch own superbikes

                NIBONG TEBAL: Truck maker Boon Koon Group Bhd plans to launch its own range of superbikes, with commercial production expected to start in the first quarter of 2016.

“We plan to produce 3,000 units for the local and regional market,” group executive chairman Datuk Goh Boon Koon said after the company’s AGM.

He said Boon Koon is partnering a China company for the super bike project. The bikes will be build using German technology.

The company is in the designing and development stage of the project.

 Goh

“The selling price will be around RM40,000 per unit,” Goh said.

He said the company is also planning to launch several models of passenger cars under its own brand.

“We have the licence from the Government to do so. We will develop the models with a China-based company,” he said.

Goh said the company has produced 130 units of the Viflex commercial trucks for the small and medium industries in the country since this January.

“These trucks has a value of about RM5mil. Viflex 2.0 is designed and developed in collaboration with China-based Brilliance Shineray,” he said.

Goh said the company had plans to produce 1,000 commercial trucks under the in-house brand Viflex 2.0 by 2017.

Boon Koon made a loss of RM42,000 on revenue of RM15.9mil in the first quarter ended June 30.

The company’s main commercial vehicles and bodyworks business reported a 19.5% drop in revenue to RM14mil.

The lower sales was attributed to weak demand for rebuilt commercial vehicles as well as bodyworks.

The company attributed the sluggish market conditions to the implementation of the goods and services tax.


BMW X3 M and X4 M Competition introduced from RM887K

                PETALING JAYA: BMW Malaysia has unveiled its latest mid-sized performance sports activity vehicle and coupe in the form of the X3 and X4 M Competition respectively.

The unveiling was held at The Paddock in Petaling Jaya which played host to The Secret Garage @ M Town with the M850i, M5 and M4 on showcase and is based on the infamous BMW M Secret Garage that's hidden somewhere within the German carmaker's performance M facility in Munich, Germany.

The X3 M Competition gets priced on-the-road without insurance at RM886,552 while the X4 M Competition gets tagged at RM904,277.

The prices are accompanied by a five-year unlimited mileage warranty that includes free scheduled service programme, access to roadside assistance, accident hotline, BMW Service Online, BMW Group Loyalty+ Mobile App before receiving a BMW Privileges Card.

READ MORE: BMW M8 Coupe and Gran Coupe introduced from RM1.43mil

With the Balloon Financing Plan from BMW Group Financial Services Malaysia, the X3 M and X4 M Competition can be owned with monthly instalment plans starting from RM10,118 and RM10,318 respectively (based on estimates of an 80% loan over a five-year tenure).

In addition, customers can now also book their new BMW M model RM5,000 each at www.shop.bmw.com.my/ to stand a chance to own a new i8 Coupé.

For colour options, both X3 M and BMW X4 M Competition include Alpine White, Black Sapphire, Donington Grey, Phytonic Blue, Sophisto Grey and a new Toronto Red while the cabin can be upholstered in Black, Sakhir Orange or Adelaide Grey Merino leather.

Aside from the performance gain, the two new additions to the BMW X family, have also been equipped with advanced driver assistance systems and intelligent in-car connectivity features which includes the Driving Assistant Plus that offers optimal support during sporty driving.

The X3 and X4 M Competition have both been fitted as standard with large hexagonal air intakes for the blue performance braking system, adaptive LED headlights with high-beam assistant, full-LED taillights and an M Sport exhaust system with four black chrome exhaust tips.

Accompanying the mentioned accoutrements are 21-inch bi-colour M lightweight alloys that hide the Adaptive M suspension system and are further contrasted by black kidney grille surrounds, side gills and wing mirror caps.

Specifically, the X3 M Competition sports activity vehicle (SAV) features a slim gloss-black diffuser and an M-specific roof spoiler while the X4 M Competition sports activity coupe (SAC) gets a black rear spoiler only.

Power for this duo comes from a 3.0-litre (2,993cc) inline-six twin-turbo petrol engine producing 510hp at 6,250rpm and 600Nm of torque from 2,600 to 5,950rpm and is managed by an eight-speed M Steptronic transmission with a three-stage Drivelogic system for the xDrive all-wheel-drive system.

The Drivelogic system (Efficient, Sport and Sport Plus modes) is capable of performing automatic or manual gear changes via the gear selector lever or paddle-shifters located behind the steering wheel.

This gets their 21-inch M lightweight alloys in V-spoke style 765 M Bicolour black with staggered front 255/40 and rear 265/40 tyres - allowing them to launch from 0 to 100kph in 4.1 seconds before getting the top speed electronically limited to 250kph.

The X3 M Competition is further fitted with BMW Individual roof rails in high-gloss Shadow Line, front ornamental grille with M double rods, black M specific exterior mirrors, M specific roof spoiler and a panorama glass roof.

New owners will receive a BMW Display Key with LCD colour display including a touch control panel

Inside, the cabin is furnished with an electromechanical parking brake with automatic hold function and will also gain access to a performance control system

Both models' chassis have been upgraded with a strut brace in the engine compartment and is complemented by the adaptive dampers and stiffer stabilisers as well as the Active M Differential and lightweight M Compound Brakes.

The M xDrive intelligent all-wheel drive also allows for conventional variable power distribution, or a Sport mode with even more pronounced and dynamic rear-wheel bias.

Inside, there are welcoming entry sills bearing the M model designation as well as front ventilated seats with lumbar support, M leather steering wheel with paddle-shifters, red M Drive buttons, and a red Start/Stop button.

These are complemented by the redesigned M gear selector lever and the three-level controls for the engine, damper and steering responses.

Further M-specific highlights include interior trim finishers and Carbon Fibre decorative seams in BMW M colours, M seatbelts, M pedals, along with an M-specific instrument cluster and knee pads.

Comfort is accorded by the M Sport seats with illuminated M badge below the semi-integrated head restraint, furnished with premium Leather Merino upholstery.

For luggage capacity, the X3 M Competition features 550 litres of boot space that can be increased to 1,600 litres with the rear backrests folded down while the X4 M Competition gets 525 litres (expandable to 1,430  litres).

Exclusively available in the First-Ever BMW X3 M Competition are seat backrest adjustment for rear-seat passengers as well as roller sunblind for rear side windows.

Both M Competition models come with advanced assistance systems and intelligent in-car connectivity features that include a Heads-Up Display (HUD) with M-specific display variants, along with the Parking Assistant Plus featuring Surround View and Remote 3D Service.

The infotainment systems available within the M Competition models are the 10.25-inch Control Display that can be operated via the iDrive controller, by touch, and the BMW Gesture Control.

ConnectedDrive Services are available as standard to both models providing owners with Concierge Service, Teleservices, Remote Services, Intelligent Emergency Call and Apple CarPlay.

The Comfort Access system also offers both convenience and safety with automatic tailgate operation while the 600W nine-channel Harman Kardon surround-sound system for the 16 speakers provides audible pleasures and the wireless smartphone charger preventing wire clutter.

For a limited time, the company is offering special programmes and campaigns for a range of BMW M models from now until Sept 30 with special savings of selected M models that include the M2 Competition (RM25,000), M4 Coupé (RM45,000), M5 Sedan (RM70,000) and M850i xDrive Coupé (RM75,000).

“The First-Ever BMW X3 M Competition and BMW X4 M Competition further expands the BMW X portfolio of powerful Sports Activity Vehicles (SAV) and Sports Activity Coupés (SAC) respectively. Both bring a whole new level of speed and performance to the segment with the new BMW M TwinPower Turbo engine that is capable of 510hp," said BMW Group Malaysia managing director Harald Hoelzl.

BMW X3 M Competition

BMW X4 M Competition


120 years of Royal Enfield motorcycles

                LONDON: Puristic motorcycles are popular with riders these days and few companies are as good at making them as Royal Enfield, the Indian-based manufacturer whose new products look much the same as the old ones, only better.

This applies especially to the 2021 Royal Enfield 350 Classic, a more refined version of the firm's bestselling single pot thumper with styling changes that only eagle-eyed enthusiasts would spot.

The Classic gets the same setup as the popular Meteor cruiser in terms of engine, frame, suspension and brakes. The headlight and instrument panel are new, while a beefier suspension makes it more stable.

Stability is a byword at Royal Enfield which goes back to 1897, when the Royal Small Arms Factory in Enfield, Middlesex started making cycle parts.

Motorbikes with sidecars were a mainstay from 1912 and these proved successful with British troops during World War I. From the 1930s onwards Royal Enfield sold the iconic Bullet in various capacities and from 1955 the 350 cc version was built in the Indian city of Madras.

The country's army had chosen the model for its forces and it was the beginning of a remarkable success story, with millions of machines since sold.

It was a different picture in Britain where Royal Enfield went bankrupt in 1967. The onslaught of Japanese motorcycles spelt the end for many British motorcycle manufacturers whose products were seen as old-fashioned and unreliable.

Japanese competition made life hard for Royal Enfield in India too, but customers remained loyal. The firm was taken over by the Eicher Group in 1994 and the latest generation of motorbikes has been developed with English engineering input.

Royal Enfield's winning formula seems to be a mixture of traditional styling paired with straightforward technology and a rich heritage. The bikes were seen for decades as sturdy, everyday transport but now appeal to enthusiasts as well.

"Hardly any other manufacturer can look back on such a rich tradition," said Markus Biebricher who writes for the German motorcycle magazine Motorrad. Royal Enfields are also a refreshing alternative to the complicated, high-tech two-wheelers from Japanese and European brands.

Royal Enfield never went in for track competition unlike rivals Triumph and Norton and it focussed instead on making solid, workmanlike bikes.

Current models like the Meteor, Continental GT, Interceptor and Himalayan look old-fashioned from new but that is part of their appeal. Fans would call the look timeless and prices start at a modest 3,750 pounds or 4,400 euros.

Frank Meissner from the market-watching organisation Classic Analytics particularly admires the 350 Bullet, which has been in production since the 1970s and the 700cc Super Meteor.

It emerged in 1960s and the contemporary superbike was later superseded by the mighty Interceptor 750.

Classic Royal Enfields which have survived the years sell for around 6,000 to 8,000 euros but with a modern version like the Classic 350 available in showrooms, fans can easily opt for a new one.

READ MORE:  A. Nachi rides Royal Enfield Continental GT


Raya road ops run from April 18-27

                BENTONG: The Road Transport Department (JPJ) will hold “Ops Bersepadu JPJ” in conjunction with the Hari Raya Aidilfitri celebration from April 18 to 27, said Transport Minister Anthony Loke.

He said 231 locations across the country have been identified as frequent accident areas or “hotspots” where monitoring will be stepped up.

"If an area has been identified to have frequent accidents, the approach is to station patrol cars to conduct patrols so that drivers will be more careful with the presence of enforcement officers.

"I hope motorists will obey the traffic rules, especially in Pahang because it is the main route to the East Coast from the Klang Valley and of course, millions of vehicles will be passing through it. Besides, we will also implement a ban on heavy vehicles as usual," he said.

He said this at a press conference after attending the groundbreaking ceremony for the construction of the new Bentong JPJ office, in Jalan Chamang, here today.

Also present were Pahang public works, transport and health committee chairman Datuk Mohammad Fakhruddin Mohd Ariff and JPJ director-general Datuk Zailani Hashim.

Meanwhile, Loke said in addition to this district, two more new JPJ buildings are being built, namely in Sarikei, Sarawak and Muar, Johor.

On the construction of the new Bentong JPJ branch, Loke said in his speech that it was aimed at replacing the existing office located at Taman Datuk Shah Bandar Hussin, where it has been operating since 1983.

He said the office in a shophouse now is small and could not accommodate about 180 visitors a day or 50,000 people a year.

Thus, he said, the government has approved the construction of a smart office concept building on a 0.6474ha site with an allocation of RM10.4mil under the 11th Malaysia Plan. It is expected to be completed in April 2025.

It is located about one kilometre from Bentong town centre and the new office, which is easily accessible, can benefit almost 120,000 residents of this district and the surrounding community in addition to JPJ's own staff.

"The government is aware that in order to ensure that JPJ provides the best service to the people, it has to be empowered in the digital aspect with appropriate infrastructure provided so that JPJ remains relevant," he said.


China's passenger car sales fall for first time in years

New cars lined up at a parking lot in Shenyang, northeast China's Liaoning province. — AFP
BEIJING: China's annual passenger car sales fell last year for the first time in more than 20 years as the trade war with the US rocked consumer confidence and Beijing reined in car financing channels.

Passenger car sales fell to 22.4 million vehicles in 2018, down 5.8 percent from a year earlier, data from the China Passenger Car Association (CPCA) showed on Wednesday.

In December, sales plummeted 19.2 percent from a year earlier, the CPCA said.

The slumping market has hit China's manufacturing sector, which contracted last month for the first time in more than two years, according to official data.

Beijing's bruising trade war with Washington comes as it grapples with a slowing domestic economy — growth is expected to have eased to around 6.5 percent in 2018, down from 6.9 percent in 2017.

The gloomy export picture has reinforced the need for Beijing to rely on its legion of consumers to grow its economy.

But the government's campaign against debt was in full force last year, cutting into parts of the shadow finance industry like peer-to-peer lending which financed car purchases for some consumers.

Declining car sales may be last year's phenomenon, said CPCA secretary general Cui Dongshu. "I hope that's the case," he said.

Officials are taking steps to re-ignite consumer spending.

Policies will be rolled out to push auto and home appliance consumption, an official at the state planner told official news agency Xinhua this week.

Still some officials have indicated car sales may have little room for growth.

"The period of rapid growth in production and sales of cars is over and low growth speed could become the norm in the automotive market," Xin Guobin, vice minister of industry and information technology said last year, according to China News.


Toyota expert tells why electric cars are not practical

                YOKOHAMA: Battery-powered electric vehicles don't have a practical future as a long-range alternative to conventional cars even if technological breakthroughs allow them to be charged quickly, a top engineer at Toyota Motor Corp said.

Electric vehicle (EV) supporters have touted developing high-speed charging technology as the way forward for cars like Nissan Motor Co's LEAF. But Yoshikazu Tanaka, chief engineer of Toyota's hydrogen fuel-cell car Mirai, said that would guzzle so much energy at once as to defeat the purpose of the EV as an ecologically sound form of transportation.

"If you were to charge a car in 12 minutes for a range of 500km, for example, you're probably using up electricity required to power 1,000 houses," Tanaka told a small group of reporters last Thursday at the first test-drive event for the production version of the Mirai, the world's only mass-market fuel-cell car.

"That totally goes against the need to stabilise electricity use on the grid." Even as rivals such as Nissan and Volkswagen AG promote battery EVs, cars like the LEAF require lengthy charging, reducing their attractiveness for customers planning to drive longer distances frequently. The LEAF requires about eight hours for a full charge using a 200-volt outlet, giving a listed driving range of around 84 miles in the United States.

"Toyota isn't denying the benefits of EVs," Tanaka said.

"But we think the best way to use them is to charge them at night (to avoid peak power consumption hours), and use them for short distances during the day." Instead, Toyota says hydrogen fuel-cell vehicles (FCVs) offer the most promising zero-emission alternative to conventional cars since they have a similar driving range and refuelling time.

While FCVs require massive investment and government subsidies for fuelling stations, Tanaka noted that hydrogen - the most abundant element in the universe - could be extracted from many different sources and had the advantage of being portable and more easily stored than electricity.

He noted that the southern Japanese city of Fukuoka last month completed a fuelling station that uses hydrogen made from sewage and that could power about 70 Mirai FCVs a day.

"Of course, there are technological hurdles that need to be cleared to make this commercially viable," he said.

"But remember 'Back to the Future'? In that movie, a car from 30 years in the future comes back to the present - the year 1985," he said, referring to the flying Hollywood time machine that was powered by garbage.

"The Mirai doesn't fly, but this year, 2015, is that future."


Audi joins other car makers in bidirectional V2G research

                PARIS: Audi is just the latest in a string of manufacturers to announce work on a bidirectional recharge system.

Auto makers are hoping to do their bit for the energy transition, and this technology could transform any electric vehicle into an energy supplier.

The idea behind bidirectional charging (the technology behing V2G, or "vehicle to grid") is to use the energy held in the batteries of electric and rechargeable hybrid vehicles to feed power into a home or local grid via special charging docks. In this way, a car can be used as a way of storing energy and providing it back according to need.

However, the technology required is still complex. For it to work, both the car's charger and the charging dock need to be bidirectional, meaning that energy can circulate between them in both directions. In theory, this concept could work with even electric two-wheelers.

Renault is a forerunner in this new technology alongside Nissan and Mitsubishi, which already offer these sorts of energy solutions in Asia in partnership with local communities and businesses. In Europe, Renault has been conducting large-scale tests of a fleet of its ZOE cars compatible with this V2G technology since 2019.

The French group hopes to play a major role in the coming years' energy transition. In concrete terms, the ZOEs (or other vehicles) could inject a portion of the electricity in their batteries into local power grids during peaks in demand, thereby easing the strain on suppliers, and then recharge them during off-peak hours.


Ducati fans meet their racing heroes in Sepang

                SEPANG: Ducati fans who attended the 2019 MotoGP World Championship preliminary test organised by Ducati Malaysia in collaboration with Shell Malaysia recently were given a special treat to meet the riders of Mission Winnow Ducati Team; Andrea Dovizioso and Danilo Petrucci.

Starstruck as they shook the hands of their racing heroes, fans gave their best wishes to the riders.

Lucky fans were also selected at random for an exclusive autograph session with the riders and the rest of the Mission Winnow Ducati Team.

Fans also visited the team’s pit garage to meet the rest of the team and glimpsed the captivating brand-new Desmosedici GP19 bikes that will be used by both Dovizioso and Petrucci during the actual races.

With the tests running throughout the day, loud cheers echoed from the grandstands of the Sepang International Circuit as fans gathered to watch both riders in action on their Desmosedici GP19 bikes around the race circuit.

 The accessorised Ducati Panigale V4 was also on display during the 3-day test.

Ducati fans were also given a pleasant surprise as they viewed the accessorised Ducati Panigale V4, which was on display.

The tests started on February 6 with positive results as new member Petrucci finished in fifth place in the standings – with a personal best of 2:00.051, posted in lap 8 of 54.

Dovizioso finished just 0.146 seconds behind his teammate in 2:00.197 with 49 laps to his tally.

On the second day of the tests, Dovizioso and Petrucci clocked 60 and 65 laps respectively in hot weather conditions, including two “long runs” apiece to cover the race distance in the hottest time of the day.

Dovizioso ended the day in fourth position with a personal best of 1:59.562, more than half a second faster than his personal best the day before.

 Lucky fans from the Desmo Owners Club (DOC) Malaysia community were selected at random for an exclusive autograph session with the riders and the rest of the Mission Winnow Ducati Team.

Petrucci also improved with a new personal record of 1:59.845; two tenths of a second faster than his previous record and just 0.283 seconds behind his teammate.

Both Dovizioso and Petrucci beat their own personal records on the final day of the tests with Petrucci finishing in first place while Dovizioso at third.

Petrucci’s new personal record now stands at 1:58.239 and Dovizioso’s, almost half a second behind his teammate at 1:58.538.

The 2019 MotoGP World Championship season is about to begin with the first 19 races scheduled for March 10 in Qatar.

All eyes are on the Mission Winnow Ducati team as both riders are Italian, with veteran Dovizioso on the team since 2013.

The promotion of Petrucci from the Alma Pramac Racing Factory team to the main works team also marks a promising beginning to an exciting new season.

 The captivating brand new Desmosedici GP19 bike at the team’s garage pit, which will be used by Andrea Dovizioso and Danilo Petrucci during the 2019 MotoGP.


Mercedes shows off concept EQT electric family van due in 2022

                FRANKFURT: Mercedes is touting the prospect of an electric van based on the new Citan and a near-production concept is giving a clear look at the planned EQT, set to go on sale at the end of 2022.

Mercedes is significantly expanding its van programme and the Stuttgart-based manufacturer announced that the EQT, related to the Renault Kangoo, will be available in several van versions.

The Citan van and the Citan Tourer van derivative will be launched at the end of 2021. In addition, it will be launched as the T-Class, refined with diesels and petrol engines. Finally as the EQT, the van will be purely electric.

However, the T-Class will not go on sale until the beginning of 2022 and the electric version is expected at the end of 2022.

Mercedes is now giving a first preview of this electric family van with the Concept EQT study, which is close to series production and is only varies in a few design details and choice of materials.

Like all EQ models, the car has a smooth grille and a continuous light band at the rear, is 4.95 metres long and will be offered for the first time with three rows of seats.

These are to be comfortably accessible through two large sliding doors. Alternatively, the EQT will also be available as a five-seater with a short wheelbase and a length of around 4.70 metres, Mercedes adds.

Although technically closely related to the Kangoo, Mercedes wants the Citan, T-Class and EQT to be more independent than before. This applies above all to the interior and equipment, according to the developers.

They point to the steering wheel from the A-Class, independent seats and above all the MBUX infotainment system.

Mercedes has not yet made any official statements about the drive system, but is promising a range of almost 300km for the electric version of the Kangoo, and since the engine and battery will be identical, this value should also apply to the EQT.


Porsche among automakers branching out into e-bikes

                STUTTGART: Porsche has announced that it has taken a majority stake in the Croatian ebike manufacturer, Greyp Bikes.

The company was created by Mate Rimac - founder of the car manufacturer of the same name, in which Porsche is already the main shareholder.

After releasing two first electric bike models in spring 2021 - the eBike Sport and eBike Cross - Porsche intends to expand its activities in this sector.

The eBike Sport is a fairly standard urban model, reminiscent of the large electric bikes sold by the likes of Cannondale, for example. The eBike Cross is a more mountain-bike-oriented model. The two ebikes sell for €9,990 and €7,990, respectively.

These electric bikes are now an important part of the manufacturer's e-mobility strategy, and it is likely that the eBike Sport and Cross will soon be upgraded. For its part, Greyp Bikes specialises in the manufacture of electric and connected models, which should lead to an even more innovative range of Porsche ebikes.

With these electric bikes, Porsche is aiming to actively contribute - in its own way - to the clean-energy transition. In addition to its electric cars for longer trips, these bikes could be used for short trips in the city, both for work and for leisure.

Many car manufacturers have marketed bicycles in the past, with varying degrees of success.

However, the rise of electric bikes could well revive the trend. Among the manufacturers that have already taken the plunge are Mercedes and Peugeot.

Even Tesla has presented a concept of the kind - proof, if it were needed, of the current interest in electric bicycles.

In terms of soft mobility, several companies have already released electric scooters, such as BMW, Lamborghini and Mercedes.

Meanwhile, SEAT has gone one step further by offering a new three-in-one mobility package involving the rental (with the option to purchase) of a car, an electric motorcycle and an e-scooter.

From €249 per month, users can have access to all three means of transport and choose the one that best suits each trip.


Peugeot 508: What's new

 The new (right) and the old.

PETALING JAYA: Local Peugeot distributor Nasim Sdn Bhd has launched the new 508 line-up last month, which now sports a shift towards a more elegant styling.

We got our hands on the new 508 THP (turbo high pressure) sedan variant for a comparison with the previous 508 Premium year model 2013.

Externally, the French carmaker has adopted a few aesthetic changes – moving from the previous feline looks with a gaping “mouth” for a more serious or corporate appearance.

The new car now gets a more horizontal hood and grille styling.

Also, the lion logo which used to sit at the edge of the bonnet has been re-positioned on the grille.

Other updates are the Bi-xenon headlights on the old 508 which has been superseded by full LEDs (low, high, signal) in a new signature housing.

The new 508 now gets a fancier the daytime running lights and the newly refined rear light-clusters.

The trunk chrome strip, previously located above the lion logo and is now found as visual garnish on the bottom corners of the rear bumper.

Running down the new 508’s flanks, there’s nothing out of the previous model and the new 508 still maintains its 1,456mm-height and 18-inch wheels.

But, unless a measuring tape was lying around, spotting the increase in front (+16mm) and rear (+22mm) overhang would have been hard.

The new 508 still has a 2,817mm wheelbase, but its front track is now 25mm narrower at 1,828mm and its rear track has been widen by 4mm to 1,552mm.

The car may be a little longer now, but it doesn’t mean more space is available inside, since the boot still measures 545 litres and the cabin hasn’t gotten any roomier.

The 1.6-litre turbocharged engine has been tweaked to deliver 163bhp at 6,000rpm and 240Nm of torque from 1,400 to 4,250rpm while mated to the same six-speed gearbox with paddle shifters, Tiptronic and sport mode.

 The new 508 dash and the old one (below).

Although there’s an increase of 7bhp, the 508’s performance and efficiency is similar to the old 508’s still
emitting 164g/km of carbon dioxide, consumes 7.1 litres/100km on the combined cycle and sprints to 100kph in 9.2 seconds – just like its predecessor.

Those familiar with the previous 508 would find the current interior similar with the same dashboard, steering wheel, paddle shifters, head-up-display and gear shifter lever.

NEWOLD

This time, Peugeot has chosen to omit the control knob that was previously mounted just ahead of the armrest / stowage compartment and have instead integrated some of its controls into the centre console.

New buyers would be happy to note that the 508 now comes with an 8Gb Jukebox hard drive for your personal media files and to top it off, satellite navigation, reverse camera, blindspot sensor system have been thrown in.

Previously, the 508 was deemed feature-packed with good handling dynamics for a European make and now priced at RM175,000 (estimated), returns with a few more add-ons that would definitely tickle the fancies of many.

NEW

OLD


US Senate panel puts self-driving cars in fast lane

                WASHINGTON: A US Senate panel on Wednesday unanimously gave the green light to a bill aimed at speeding the use of self-driving cars without human controls, a measure that also bars states from imposing regulatory road blocks.

The bill still must clear a Senate vote, but it appears on track to passage. This should rev up profits for automakers, technology companies and ride service providers, hastening the day when their robot cars can carry passengers on the same US roads as cars driven by people.

General Motors Co, Alphabet Inc, Ford Motor Co and others have lobbied for the landmark legislation, while auto safety groups urged more safeguards and have pledged to keep fighting for changes.

However the measure will not speed the process for self-driving commercial trucks, which remain in a slower lane despite support from several Republican senators.

The Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee approved the bill, and the US House of Representatives unanimously passed a similar measure last month. Automakers would be able to win exemptions from safety rules that require human controls. States could set rules on registration, licensing, liability, insurance and safety inspections, but not performance standards.

Senator John Thune, the Republican who chairs the Commerce Committee, said the bill “underscores the bipartisan desire to move ahead with self-driving vehicle technology.... The safety and economic benefits of self-driving vehicles are too critical to delay.”


BMW now owns 100% of DriveNow

                MUNICH: With the acquisition of Sixt SE’s stake in DriveNow, the BMW Group  is positioning itseld as a customer-centric mobility company. Yesterday’s signing is subject to approval by antitrust authorities.

The growing field of mobility services is one of the cornerstones of the BMW Group’s corporate strategy NUMBER ONE > NEXT, as evidenced by the BMW Group expanding its offering in the areas of on-demand mobility (DriveNow and ReachNow), parking (ParkNow) and charging (ChargeNow) in a sustainable way.

The acquisition of the Sixt shares is therefore the next logical step in this strategy, following the acquisition of Parkmobile LLC in early January of this year, a move which made the BMW Group the world’s leading provider of digital parking solutions.

“We have achieved extraordinary success with DriveNow over the past seven years – thanks to the efforts of the DriveNow employees and the excellent cooperation with our joint venture partner, Sixt. Sixt will remain a strong partner for us in the future,” said Peter Schwarzenbauer, member of the Board of Management of BMW AG, responsible for MINI, Rolls-Royce, BMW Motorrad, Customer Engagement and Digital Business Innovation BMW Group.

“Our aim is to win 100 million customers for our premium mobility services by 2025. With DriveNow as a wholly-owned subsidiary, we have all options for continued strategic development of our services in our hands. Our experience with mobility services supports our development of future autonomous, electrified and connected fleets,” Schwarzenbauer continued.

Independently of the acquisition of the Sixt stake in DriveNow, the BMW Group and Sixt will continue their long-standing partnership through delivery of BMW and MINI vehicles for the Sixt fleet.

"The joint development of DriveNow demonstrates the innovative strength of Sixt and the BMW Group. We would like to thank the DriveNow employees and the BMW Group for this success and look forward to continuing our strategic partnership with the BMW Group through our contracts for delivery of BMW and MINI brand vehicles", said Alexander Sixt, member of the Managing Board of Sixt SE, responsible for Group Strategy.

DriveNow was founded in 2011 as a premium car-sharing joint venture between the BMW Group and Sixt SE. The service is already used by more than one million customers in 13 European cities. The fleet comprises more than 6,000 BMW and MINI brand premium vehicles across Europe. The electric BMW i3 is also available to users at all DriveNow locations.

“In 2017 our customers drove over eight million kilometres with the DriveNow electric fleet – that is equivalent to driving round the globe more than 200 times on electric power. DriveNow not only reduces traffic and improves the parking situation in urban areas, but it is also supporting the breakthrough of electromobility,” said DriveNow Managing Director Sebastian Hofelich. “We look forward to working with our franchise and city partners to continue actively shaping urban mobility in a sustainable manner,” he added.

The BMW Group seeks to improve quality of life in urban areas through its mobility offering. The company works with various partners and decision-makers in cities to help shape the sustainable mobility of the future.