BMW's latest concept car is a shooting brake

                MUNICH: The BMW Group presented the world premiere of its BMW Concept Touring Coupé at the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este 2023 over the weekend.

The closed two-seater, which was developed for one-off production, continues the tradition of BMW classics: a timeless symbol of freedom on four wheels and the joy of travelling together.

BMW Design has reimagined the traditional body shape of an elegant sports car, giving the vehicle a shooting brake concept and powered by a six-cylinder in-line engine.

In the interior, crafted leather surfaces from Italian manufacturer Poltrona Frau create a luxurious ambience.

The compartment behind the seats provides ample room to stow luggage for spontaneous trips; the luggage itself was also exclusively custom-made at the Schedoni leather workshop in Modena.

The hand-crafted car's proportions and name are reminiscent of the BMW 328 Touring Coupé that won the Mille Miglia endurance race in 1940.

The functionality of the shooting-brake concept is a nod to the BMW 02 Series model variants of the early 1970s, which featured “Touring” in their name to distinguish them from sedans.

The styling of the signets on the rear and inside this unique vehicle was inspired by the model inscription of this predecessor.

The Sparkling Lario exterior paintwork was specially created for the BMW Concept Touring Coupé.

With embedded flakes of blue glass, its grey-brown hues achieve a unique impression of depth. The effect is completed by silver-bronze accents and the specially designed BMW kidney grille with longitudinal bars.

The exclusive light-alloy wheels, measuring 20 inches at the front and 21 inches at the rear axle, provide a logical continuation of these colour accents in the 20-spoke radial design.

“A highly emotional vehicle like this shows that the passion for everything that goes into driving pleasure has been essential through the ages and will be for the future,” said BMW Design head Domagoj Dukec.


Keep your old car 'young' with Shell Helix High Mileage motor oil

                KUALA LUMPUR: Shell Malaysia has just introduced the new Shell Helix High Mileage engine oil that can help ‘fight’ the effects of ageing with the retail price of a 4-litre pack at RM148 in Peninsular Malaysia and RM150 in Sabah and Sarawak.

While a 1-litre pack retails for RM40 in Peninsular Malaysia and RM41 in Sabah and Sarawak.

The Shell Helix High Mileage 15W 50 synthetic technology multi-fuel engine oil is specially formulated with Flexi Molecule Technology to offer customised protection to engines, especially those in vehicles with more than 100,000km on the odometer.

Shell Helix High Mileage offers up to 40% better wear protection to help prolong engine life.

Shell’s proprietary Active Cleansing Technology can also result in a cleaner engine, and thereby, better performance by preventing the accumulation of sludge and other damaging deposits.

It has proven to be able to help remove up to 34% of sludge in the first oil change on average.

In conjunction with the launch, car owners who choose Shell Helix High Mileage 15W-50 for oil change service at participating workshops will enjoy RM25 off for every 4-litre pack from the invoiced amount.

The promotion is valid from Mar 15 until May 15, 2017.

 Chapman (right) with the Shell Lubricants team and the new High Mileage motor oil.

Shell Malaysia Trading Sdn Bhd Managing Director Shairan Huzani Husain said that the latest Shell Helix motor oil variant reflected the company’s commitment to delivering innovative and targeted solutions that meet the needs of everyday drivers.

“According to industry statistics, there are some 11 million cars on the road in Malaysia and approximately half of them are 10 years or older. The challenging economic climate also means that more owners are driving their cars for longer. Shell Helix High Mileage is specially formulated to address common problems in high mileage cars such as a dirty engine, reduced engine performance and oil leaks from worn seals, gaskets and parts,” he said.

Shell Lubricants SEA Executive Director, Troy Chapman, explained that the pioneering Flexi Molecule Technology was the key to fighting engine ageing and helping owners keep their favourite cars going for longer.

For more information on this latest range of Shell Helix motor oil specifically developed for high mileage cars, please go to www.shell.com.my/fightsageing.


Google Maps, Waze not a threat to national security’

                KUALA LUMPUR: Navigation applications Google Maps and Waze are not perceived as a threat to national security because it is user-based, said Datuk Jailani Johari.

The Deputy Communications and Multimedia Minister said the applications had privacy policies, which were agreed upon by an individual and the application provider.

“However, if the MPs are very concerned about this matter, then the National Security Council (NSC) can look into reviewing these navigation apps,” he said in response to a question by Datuk Raime Unggi (BN-Tenom) in the Dewan Rakyat today.

Raime had claimed that Malaysians’ increasing usage of Google Maps and Waze indirectly provided information about Malaysia to external quarters such as the United States and Israel.

Jailani refuted the possibility of private information relating to national security being leaked through these applications.

“On the sharing of personal data, the terms and conditions agreed on when using the app is the prerogative of the user.

“If the user ends up over sharing personal data online, then the data is likely to be abused. The Government cannot take the sole blame for this,” he said.

However, in response to a follow-up question by Sim Tze Sin (PKR-Bayan Baru), Jailani noted that the NSC could review applications that were perceived to be a threat to a national security.


Ford Ranger gets 5-star safety rating from Asean NCAP

 Ford Malaysia and Asia Pacific Emerging Markets managing director David Westerman receiving the Asean NCAP certification from Miros chairman Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye, witnessed by Asean NCAP chairman Dr Wong Shaw Voon.

KUALA LUMPUR: Ford has something to cheer about as its Ranger has received the highest 5-star safety rating among all pickup trucks being tested by the Asean New Car Assessment Program (Asean NCAP).

It received the strongest evaluation score in the segment of 15.45/16 points.

The tested version, a Ranger XL Double Cab, also was equipped with dual front airbags, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Emergency Brake Assist (EBA), Roll Over Mitigation (ROM) and ISOFIX for child seat attachment.

In Malaysia, Ford said the Ranger’s safety package is unmatched, with up to six airbags – three times more than any other pickup in the country. Ford’s Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and ISOFIX child safety mounts also come standard, making Ranger the only pickup truck in Malaysia to offer these two important safety features across all variants. All Ranger variants in Malaysia also feature driver and front passenger seatbelt reminders.

The highest variant in the Ranger line-up, the Ranger Wildtrak also includes side and rear curtain airbags for enhanced protection.

The new Ford Ranger was introduced in Asean in 2015, and is built at Ford’s AutoAlliance Thailand joint-venture in Rayong, Thailand.

“Achieving 5-star Asean-NCAP is an important milestone in the new Ranger’s success story as we designed and developed this vehicle to challenge the conventional world of pickup trucks and provide customers with more class-leading safety features than ever," said Ford Asean president Mark Kaufman.


Audi starts production in Brazil

                INGOLSTADT: Audi has begun production in Curitiba in the Brazilian federal state of Parana and is the latest of thirteen sites in the Audi production network and is also the first in South America.

“We see great potential in the Brazilian market. Our goal there is to maintain our leading position in the premium segment over the long term,” said AUDI board of management member for procurement Dr. Bernd Martens.

The A3 1.4 TFSI Flex is the first Audi model to be produced in Curitiba with a flex-fuel engine that can operate on petrol, ethanol or both fuels at the same time.

Brazil is the world’s biggest market for flex-fuel engines where more than 90% of cars newly registered are fitted with this technology.

“On our global growth path, we will also utilize the potential of high added value in Brazil. So as well as the Audi A3 Sedan, we will soon also produce the Audi Q3 in Curitiba and will procure as many components as possible locally.”

The German automaker will deliver its first batch of A3 1.4 TFSI with flex-fuel engine to customers in November this year and will open a second Audi plant in 2016 in San José Chiapa, Mexico.

“Since the market launch of the A3 Sedan in 2014, we have doubled our sales volume in Brazil and are the market leader in this segment. This is a strong confirmation that we have chosen the right model for Curitiba,” said Audi do Brasil CEO Jörg Hofmann.


Shift towards EVs is golden opportunity for other Taiwanese firms, too

                TAIPEI: While Taiwan has occupied a pivotal position in the world’s electronics supply chain, for the longest time no one thought it had a chance of achieving similar success in the auto industry.

The perception was that no local company made the crucial components required by internal combustion engine vehicles.

That changed almost overnight when automakers started to complain about a shortage of semiconductors early last year.

In the race to accelerate EVs, car companies now require more electronics components than ever before. That’s underscored by the global push for greener and smarter automobiles and consumers’ Covid-induced preference for private transport.

Previously best known as the exclusive main processor supplier for Apple devices, Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co.’s name has begun to pop up in almost all conversations about the Great Chip Dearth.

Even though autos account for a low-single-digit percentage of TSMC’s overall sales, the Taiwanese chipmaker’s role in the world’s car supply chain was critical enough to bring senior officials from the US, Germany and elsewhere to call upon Taiwan to increase production of the microelectronics powering vehicles and other gadgets to aid in the post-Covid economic recovery.

The industry’s EV transition has created opportunities for Taiwanese companies beyond TSMC, too.

With EVs requiring many more electronics parts, Taiwan’s tech supply chain is seizing this opportunity with both hands.

Apple’s key assembly partner Foxconn Technology Group has agreed to acquire Lordstown Motors’ Ohio pickup plant, pending regulatory approval, as a key step in its quest to become another Magna.

Foxconn, together with Taiwanese peers Pegatron and Quanta Computer, has also been supplying parts to Tesla, while Delta Electronics provides power products or powertrains to GM, Stellantis and other major carmakers.

Still others are choosing to work with tier-one suppliers. PC and server maker Inventec is now supplying motherboards to Bosch and Continental, for example.

The ascension of Taiwan tech was on full display earlier this year at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas. A partnership between BMW and E Ink, the long-time e-paper supplier to Amazon's Kindle, resulted in one of the event’s highlights — a concept SUV that can change colour.

Local officials here are understandably keen to help more Taiwanese companies pile in. The government in the southern city of Tainan is scouting for suitable land in industrial parks to establish specialized zones for auto-electronics suppliers to build offices and plants.

“As industries undergo digital transformation, they’ll need new materials, new manufacturing models and support from a comprehensive ICT supply chain,” said E Ink president F.Y. Gan. “This is exactly where Taiwan’s strength lies.”


Neelofa now a proud Volkswagen owner

                KUALA LUMPUR: Local celebrity Neelofa has won a Volkswagen Passat R-Line Special, the only one of its kind here in Malaysia, after she took the coveted ‘Most Popular Artiste’ category in the 29th Anugerah Bintang Popular Berita Harian (ABPBH).

"I’m very happy with winning this very special Volkswagen Passat. This is my first Volkswagen and I can’t wait to start driving it around and find out what it is capable of,” said Neelofa.

Neelofa’s new Volkswagen Passat R-Line Special comes with unique R-Line fittings, such as front and rear bumper, pedal caps, a black front grille, black rear spoiler, black Volkswagen and Passat emblems, and exhaust covers.

The lucky winner of the ABPBH Vote and Win contest is 25-year old Muhammad Zulhilmi Yusof from Kelantan, who is now the proud owner of the new Volkswagen Vento 1.2 TSI Highline.

“I was absolutely stunned when I was informed that I had won a Volkswagen Vento. I had read that it’s the most powerful sedan in its class, which is really impressive. I never expected to win - it’s such a blessing and I’m happy that luck was on my side. Thank you!,” said an ecstatic Muhammad Zulhimi.

The prize handover ceremony was held at Volkswagen Sri Hartamas 3S Centre and this was followed by a meet-and-greet session by Neelofa to invited Volkswagen owners, guests and fans.


Carmakers start to starve combustion models out of existence

                DETROIT: Automakers have announced a whopping US$526 billion (RM2.4tril) collective investment in electric vehicles through 2026, more than double the amount they mapped out over a similar forward time frame a couple years ago.

Since the industry isn’t doubling its total capital spending, all that investment in EVs — tallied by consulting firm AlixPartners — will come at the expense of development dollars for new and redesigned internal combustion engine vehicles.

Makes sense, right? The hot growth is in EVs. But hang on. General Motors has said it aspires to go all-electric by 2035, and other companies are saying 2040 or later. That means consumers will be able to buy a brand new gasoline-burning vehicle for another 15 to 20 years.

If models running on fuel will be available that far into the future, but most of the investment is going into EVs, auto dealers will be selling some very stale sets of wheels in the coming years.

What will those cars look like? For starters, automakers will not be investing in sprucing up their powertrains. Engines and transmissions are going to get awfully long in the tooth, since automakers can now see a point at which they’ll be phasing them out altogether.

Changes to powertrains will be done for reasons of efficiency and to meet tougher emissions rules, not to make cars faster or smoother.

Styling also could take a back seat. As carmakers watch sales of their combustion models decline, they’re more likely to tweak on the margins, rather than go through the rigmarole of complete redesigns.

Mark Wakefield, who runs AlixPartners’s auto industry practice, said some vehicles could get the kind of freshening that costs US$100 million or so. All-new models tend to cost US$1 billion or more.

BofA Global Research recently forecast in its closely watched Car Wars report that by 2026, the US market will have about 135 different EVs for sale, and an equal number of internal combustion vehicles.

If automakers spend less on their traditional models, those cars could eventually become more of a bargain hunter’s option for consumers who can’t afford EVs, or don’t have plentiful access to charging infrastructure.

This could also mean some interim pain both for automakers and their suppliers, who will start to struggle as sales volumes drop. AlixPartners estimates it could cost the big manufacturers and their Tier 1 suppliers $70 billion between now and 2030 to either fund new sources of internal combustion vehicle parts, or help vendors survive the transition.

As for profits, this too will get tricky. As EV volumes rise, margins should get better. Tesla has certainly proven EVs can make money when sold in big numbers. ICE margins could get worse with lower volumes, but BofA analyst John Murphy sees lower investment helping preserve profits.

All of these shifting dynamics could accelerate consumer interest in EVs. While ICE vehicles go begging for investment and get fewer styling changes, they’ll be less compelling. Consumers will look at new EVs with fresh styling, faster acceleration and smoother ride and vote with their wallets.

After test driving EVs, going back to a gasoline-burning SUV will feel like driving a tractor, Wakefield said. Think about consumers and their smartphones. A decade ago, only a third of Americans used them. As more people tried them, flip phones seemed so yesteryear awfully quick.


New Shell Helix launched and Raya promotion

PETALING JAYA: Shell Malaysia has also announced the launch of a new variant for its best-selling Shell Helix range of passenger car motor oils, Shell Helix Ultra 5W-30.
Priced at RM277.60 (including GST) for a 4-litre pack, the new Shell Helix Ultra 5W-30 is a thinner viscosity fully synthetic motor oil with API SN/ILSAC GF-5 specification that meets the needs of most of today’s modern passenger cars.

It contains Shell’s proprietary PurePlus Technology and Active Cleansing Technology which helps keep the engine clean by removing sludge left by inferior oils and preventing any further build-ups; ensure superior wear protection by preventing piston deposits up to 65% better than industry standards; prevent oil degradation through higher resistance to chemical breakdowns; and provide better fuel economy by using low-viscosity oil to reduce friction and meets the demanding ILSAC CF-5 fuel economy.

According to Shell Lubricants Marketing General Manager, May Tan, the 5W-30 viscosity grade was one of the most recommended viscosity grades for new cars.

“In the new Shell Helix Ultra 5W-30 with SN specification, we have a product that offers a balance of fuel economy, engine protection and reliability that are synonymous with the Shell Helix brand.  It is suitable for most modern cars ranging from the small compacts right up to large D-segment sedans and even performance cars,” she said.

 Shopee Marketing Lead, Rachel Tan (left) and Shell Helix Brand Manager Alvin Leo.

It is available at all Shell Authorised distributors and Shell Retail stations. Customers who purchase the product from Shopee, Shell Malaysia’s latest e-commerce partner, can enjoy exclusive special low price for limited period.

For detail please visit www.shopee.com.my/shell.official.store .

Meanwhile, in conjunction with the upcoming Hari Raya “balik kampung” drive in May, Shell Helix has announced a special promotion to encourage car owners to have their cars serviced ahead of the festive season.
The Shell Helix Hari Raya Promotion, which runs from May 15 till July 15 2018, offers cash rebates for the following oil change service packages:RM30 off service with Shell Helix Ultra (4L);RM20 off service with Shell Helix HX7 or High Mileage (4L/6L);RM10 off service with Shell Helix HX5 (3L/4L)The offer is available at participating Shell Helix-branded workshops, independent workshops, official service centres and also at the new Shell Malaysia Official Online Store at Shopee.In addition, customers who purchase any of the promotional oil change packages will receive a RM10 Shopee e-voucher and automatically qualify for the Shell Helix Ferrari World Abu Dhabi Contest where four lucky Grand Prize winners would be able to experience the excitement at Ferrari World Abu Dhabi and a memorable Ferrari driving experience at the Yas Marina F1 Circuit.Those who purchase any 4-litre pack of Shell Helix Ultra, HX7, High Mileage or HX5 from any Shell retail station or Lubebay service will also receive the RM10 Shopee e-voucher.For more information on the Shell Helix Hari Raya Promotion, please visit www.shell.com.my/helixraya


Mitsubishi extends CNY promotion to end of February

                KUALA LUMPUR: Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia (MMM), the official distributor of Mitsubishi Motors vehicles in Malaysia, is extending its Chinese New Year (CNY) promotions until end February 2020.

The CNY promotion offers low interest rate of up to 0.88% for selected Triton variants exclusive with Maybank or Public Bank hire purchase only.

From now until end February 2020, customers who book and register a new Mitsubishi Triton VGT Adventure X, Triton VGT AT Premium and Triton VGT MT Premium can choose to either enjoy interest rate of up to 0.88% or cash rebates from RM6,000 to RM9,000.

Mitsubishi owners and Pick-up owners who purchase selected Triton variants will be entitled to RM3,000 cash rebates and RM2,000 cash rebates respectively, on top of on-going promotions.

Customers who book and register a new Mitsubishi Outlander 2.0-litre or 2.4-litre will enjoy cash rebates up to RM4, 000 plus 2-Year Free Maintenance and RM2, 000 plus 2-Year Free Maintenance respectively.

The Outlander 2.0-litre is priced at RM137, 888 while the Outlander 2.4- litre is priced at RM152, 888.

The Mitsubishi ASX Compact SUV 4WD and 2WD come with cash rebates up to RM12, 000 and RM8, 000 respectively. The ASX 4WD is priced at RM133, 336 while the ASX 2WD is priced at RM118, 866. The Outlander and ASX come with five years warranty/unlimited mileage.

Eight lucky Mitsubishi customers who service their car at any authorized Mitsubishi service outlets are entitled to win a gold coin worth RM888 when they spend a minimum of RM688. Other service promotions include spending a minimum of RM488 to get instant e-voucher up to RM48 and a minimum spend of RM388 to get exclusive cutlery set.


VW a winner as EU set to favour Wifi over 5G: draft

                BRUSSELS: The European Commission is set to approve and set rules for the use of Wifi in cars, giving Volkswagen and Renault who have pursued this technology the edge over Daimler and others who invested in rival 5G networks.

The EU executive is expected to announce draft legislation on the issue next month for feedback from EU countries and EU lawmakers before adopting it next year.

The decision is a crucial one for both carmakers and telecoms operators and equipment makers as the market for internet connected cars is expected to be worth billions of euros a year.

While connected cars have been available for some years in Europe, the Commission wants to speed up their deployment and encourage cooperation between manufacturers to make safer and more efficient cars via legislation.

Such legal protection and regulatory-approved technical specifications would also reassure car buyers and auto insurance companies, advantages which cars equipped with a rival technology would not have.

The latest draft of the proposed rules seen by Reuters paves the way for cars equipped with wifi called ITS-G5 to hit the roads in Europe while regulators will review the rules at the latest three years after its implementation to take into account any new technologies.

This could mean that the alternative 5G standard called C-V2X could take months or even years to win approval. Supporters however expect a shorter timeframe.

Rival camps

The issue has pitted two powerful groups of carmakers, chipmakers and telecoms providers against each other. Connected cars are seen as lucrative targets for online retailers and advertisers.

Volkswagen, Renault, NXP, Autotalks and Kapsch TrafficCom are pushing ITS-G5, which they say has been sufficiently tested and fully standardised in European government-funded projects.

However, 5G backers include big names like Daimler, Ford, PSA Group, Deutsche Telekom, Ericsson, Huawei [HWT.UL], Intel, Qualcomm and Samsung. They say that C-V2X has wider application and is future-proof.

Backers of C-V2X say it can hook up to both cars and devices in the surrounding environment, with a wider range of applications in areas such as entertainment, traffic data and general navigation where data speeds or signal failure are less of an issue.

Fans of ITS-G5, which is primarily for connecting cars to other cars, say it is better for time-critical communications involved in crash avoidance and object navigation.
The EU executive declined to comment on the draft. It said: “Currently the Commission is looking into the best European framework to promote the right investments in this area and ensure interoperability between the existing systems and the development of new technologies.”

In effect, the decision puts the region at loggerheads with the United States and China which see C-V2X, using cellular networks, as the way forward.

Some EU countries such as Spain, Sweden, Finland and Norway had called for a postponement of the proposed rules because of the diverging views on the topic.

Following intense lobbying, France, which supports the wifi-based technology, came up with a compromise clause which is now under discussion.

Its proposal, seen by Reuters, would force the Commission to revise the rules in less than 12 months if a new technology is approved. The paper also calls for all involved parties to cooperate to ensure a level playing field between different technologies.

Lobbying group and C-V2X supporter 5GAA said that is not enough. “A legislation confined to a Wifi based communication would send a negative message about Europe’s commitment to 5G, and is contrary to the objectives of the Commission’s own 5G action plan, which aims to promote early deployment of 5G along major transport paths,” 5GAA said.


Beijing Auto Show (2016): Infiniti's QX Sport Inspiration concept debuts

                ROLLE (Switzerland): Infiniti's QX Sport Inspiration concept car made its global public debut at the 2016 Beijing Auto Show.

The concept explores a vision of how Infiniti could once again demonstrate this successful approach in the mid-sized SUV class.

In terms of design, the new concept lays down markers for the design, layout, and engineering of future Infiniti QX models.

It is heavily influenced by the Japanese luxury brand's acclaimed ‘Powerful Elegance’ design philosophy, gifting it with a powerful, purposeful exterior with sculptural lines and strong, muscular proportions, while also featuring the brand's signature Infiniti design cues and an array of innovative details.

The interior is predominantly black and white with flashes of the leather hide’s natural tan colour, while having a 'driver-centric, passenger-minded’ approach.

The new Infiniti QX Sport Inspiration will be on public show at the 2016 Beijing Auto Show till May 4 at the China International Exhibition Center.

“The QX Sport Inspiration is a statement of intent from Infiniti, showcasing a daring design philosophy and a demonstration of our capabilities in the mid-size SUV segment,” Infiniti president Roland Krueger.


CKD BMW X3 sDrive20i arrives at RM287K

                KUALA LUMPUR: BMW Group Malaysia unveiled on Friday an entry level X3.

Locally assembled, the new G01 X3 sDrive20i is priced at RM286,674. The retail pricing comes with extended warranty, service package, and the sales and services tax exemption (on the road, without insurance).

The base X3 was launched alongside the first-ever 330Li M Sport, a long wheelbase 3 Series. The X3 is still in its third generation, production of which began in 2018.

The newest X3 variant is rear-wheel driven and arrives with the hallmark radiator kidney grille and the xLine package, complemented by LED headlights with Extended Contents inclusive of cornering lights.

The SAV gets a set of 19-inch light alloy wheels in Y-Spoke Style 694 with runflat tyres. Body details are accentuated in aluminium, as the new SAV also features the BMW Individual Exterior Line and roof rails both in an aluminium finish.

Powering it is the four-cylinder TwinPower Turbo petrol engine capable of a maximum output of 184hp at 5,000 – 6,500 rpm and a peak torque of 300new X3 sDrive20i.Nm at 1,350 – 4,000 rpm.

The new SAV is capable of a century sprint in 8.2 seconds, and records a top speed of 215kph. Carbon emissions are capped at a lowered 163 g/km and an equally lowered fuel consumption of 7.1 litres per 100 km of travel. Transmission is also offered to the new SAV in the form of an 8-Speed Automatic Steptronic with Automatic Hold Function.

Inside, the vehicle is fitted with trim finishers in Black High-Gloss with highlight trim finishers in Pearl Chrome, complete with interior and exterior mirrors that are equipped with the automatic anti-dazzle function.

Driver and front passenger get sport seats as well as velour floor mats, ambient lighting, and the three-zone automatic air conditioning system.

The driver will be able to enjoy electric seat adjustment with memory function, along with a 12-speaker HiFi sound system.

The vehicle is equipped with Driving Assistant and Parking Assistant. A premium navigational and infotainment experience is offered via a 10.25-inch touchscreen control display, complemented by a Sensatec instrument panel and controls with galvanic embellishers.

These features are also offered alongside the BMW Live Cockpit Plus and the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant.

The Intelligent Emergency Call, and the convenient call function with extended smartphone connection also offer safety and convenience to owners. The X3 variant also has Comfort Access System, along with the Storage Compartment Package that gives it 550 litres of luggage space.

The My BMW App provides easy access to a wide range of remote services, on-the-go navigation, and e-mobility features. The application will replace the BMW Connected App come July 2021, and is now available for download on both Android and iOS-enabled smartphones.

The X3 sDrive20i is available in Alpine White, Glacier Silver, Black Sapphire, and Phytonic Blue. All exterior offerings are paired with black Leather Vernasa upholstery with black stitching.

“The BMW X3 has been one of our leading models in the local market in terms of deliveries since its first introduction in 2011," said BMW Group Malaysia managing director Harald Hoelzl.

“In 2020 alone, the X3 saw over 900 units delivered – despite the slowdown in the automotive industry. This success only strengthens our position as the leading premium automaker with one of the most expansive portfolios of locally-assembled SAVs in the country."

The vehicle is now available at all authorised BMW dealerships in Peninsular Malaysia, and will be available in Sabah and Sarawak from April 20. Customers may also book the SAV for RM1,000 via the BMW Shop Online platform at https://shop.bmw.com.my/.


Change to Toyota Vellfire aimed at reducing costs, says ministry

                PUTRAJAYA: The change of government official cars from Proton Perdana 2.4 Premium to Toyota Vellfire 2.5L would result in reduced payments, says the Finance Ministry today.

According to a statement issued by the ministry, the monthly payment for the Vellfire was RM4,851.61, compared to RM4,854.41 for the  Perdana. The market price of the Vellfire is around RM368,000.

"The decision to switch models was based partly on the lower monthly cost for the Vellfire compared to that of the Perdana ,” the statement read.

The government’s decision to switch models for ministers’ official cars, a replacement process that began last April, had recently gone viral on social media.

The ministry said the switch was also due to Proton ending the production of the Perdana 2.4 Premium in 2014, adding that the proposal to switch models was made by the previous government but only carried out this year.

It added that some of the cars were already six years old although the replacement cycle of the vehicles were supposed to be carried out every four years.


New Ford Ranger Raptor 2.0 Bi-Turbo Diesel rolls in from RM248,888

                KUALA LUMPUR: Sime Darby Auto ConneXion (SDAC) the sole distributor of Ford in Malaysia, launched the next-generation Ranger Raptor 2.0-litre Bi-Turbo Diesel pick-up truck.

Priced from RM248,888 (without insurance and road tax), the latest bi-turbo Ranger Raptor now joins the more powerful 3.0-litre twin-turbo EcoBoost V6 petrol engine variant in the next-generation Ranger Raptor line-up.

Colour choices are the new Code Orange as well as Absolute Black, Arctic White, Blue Lightning and Conquer Grey.

Coverage is a five-year or 160,000km warranty (whichever comes first) while a seven-year PremiumCare extended warranty package is also available as an optional extra.

SDAC also revealed its early bird promotion for the first 300 customers who book the 2.0-litre bi-turbodiesel Ranger Raptor will receive a specially fitted Kenwood DRV-A700W dashcam with a 3.7-megapixel Wide-Quad High Definition (WQHD) resolution.

The dash cam is able to perform dual-channel recording if a rear camera is added and comes equipped with a 16GB microSD card while providing owners with wireless smartphone access via a link as well as GPS, three-axis G-sensor, polarizer filter and smart parking mode.

Also included in the early promotion is a special RM500 discount on one Ford Ranger Getaways via a promo code that's redeemable upon vehicle delivery.

The new variant has a length of 5,381mm, width of 2,028mm, height of 1,922mm and wheelbase of 3,270mm. Its ground clearance of 265mm allows a wading depth of up to 800mm.

Its 2.0-litre (1,996cc) bi-turbodiesel engine delivers 210PS at 3,750rpm and 500Nm of torque from 1,750 to 2,000rpm.

Its fuel tank has a capacity of 80 litres.

Power is managed by a 10-speed automatic with SelectShift with paddle-shifters and an electronic shift-on-the-fly (ESOF) system for the 4WD system (4A / 2H / 4H / 4L) which happens to include seven drive modes of Normal, Sport, Slippery, Mud/Ruts, Sand, Baja and Rock.

As standard, the Ranger Raptor comes fitted with that unmistakable Raptor Scheme for the front and rear bumpers and the Ford Block front grille that's flanked by LED Matrix headlamps with automatic high beam and levelling as well as LEDs for the fog lights (front and rear) and rear combination lights.

The Raptor Scheme is also extended to the side steps while the scuff plates are from Ford Performance and it also comes with standard underbody protection, front and rear recovery hooks, an easy-lift tailgate, fender flares and rear bumper steps.

Also included is an LED tailgate-mounted stop light, C-clamp LED daytime runners, power-adjustable and foldable exterior mirrors with puddle lamps and integrated turn signals, six cargo box hook points and a cargo bedliner with a 12V (180W-max) socket and a 230V (400W max) three-pin socket.

The suspension uses front double-wishbone with Fox 2.5-inch internal bypass shock absorbers and rear coil springs with Watts Linkage while stopping power comes from front ventilated and rear solid discs that are almost hidden by the 17-inch alloys with 285/70 series All-Terrain BF Goodrich tyres.

Inside, the Ebony Black cabin comes fitted with a 10-way power-adjustable driver seat (10-way manual for front passenger), assist handles for all doors, Raptor Scheme carpets and keyless-entry with push-start button.

There's also an electronic parking brake, electronic dual-zone climate controls with rear vents, auto-dimming rearview mirror, windscreen-mounted USB port and one-touch (up and down) power windows for both driver and front passenger.

Additionally, the four-spoke multi-function steering wheel (tilt and telescopic adjustability) with paddles shifters, e-shifter and seats are wrapped in leather while the centre console, door cards and 12.4-inch instrument-cluster panel surround have been wrapped in a suede-leather combination.

Entertainment comes from an eight-speaker Bang & Olufsen audio speaker controlled by a 12-inch portrait touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth connectivity and voice recognition and Sync 4A. Four USB ports litter the cabin that includes a Type-C and Type-A up front as well as a Type-C and Type-A for the rear.

For safety, there's the standard inclusion of seven airbags, anti-lock braking system, electronic brakeforce distribution, electronic stability control, traction control, brake assist, hill descent control, hill launch assist, rollover mitigation, adaptive load control as well as front and rear parking sensors.

Safety is further bolstered by autonomous emergency braking with pedestrian detection, forward collision warning, brake override system, emergency stop signal, lane departure warning and assist, blindspot detection system, highbeam assist, rear cross-traffic alert, manual speed limiter, multi-collision brake, Active park assist 2.0, tyre-pressure monitoring system and a 360-degree camera system.

"As Asia Pacific's only factory-built performance truck for performance off-roading, demand for the Ranger Raptor has exceeded expectations. Based on feedback received, we know many Malaysian customers want a choice of engines and the 2.0-litre Bi-Turbo Diesel engine is a great addition to our lineup," said SDAC Ford managing director Turse Zuhair.

For those interested to check out the newly launched next-gen 2.0-litre Ranger Raptor can visit MRANTI Park (open space, West entrance) from June 9 to 11.

The pick-up truck will also be taking a nationwide tour (including Sabah and Sarawak) with the Ford Experience Hub roadshow till September where a Ford Concierge will assist with any enquiries.

 (From left) Turse; Sime Darby Motors, South East Asia, Hong Kong and Macau managing director Jeffrey Gan; Sime Darby Motors, Motors' Division managing director Andrew Basham and Ford Asia Pacific Distributor Markets sales zone manager Navin Gulatiat the unveiling of the Next Generation Ford Ranger Raptor 2.0L Bi-Turbo Diesel.

Visitors to the hub may also book a test drive, learn more about the Ford Ranger Getaways as well as view and purchase exclusive Ford merchandise.

Those who book the latest pick-up truck and/or getaway at the hub will be able to immediately redeem exclusive merchandise.

Last but not least, buyers of the latest Ranger Raptor will be able to utilise their Inner Circle privilege card code to enjoy a 30% discount on one Ford Raqnger Getaways trip.

For more information, log on to www.sdacford.com.my or follow Ford Malaysia's Facebook, Instagram, Twitter or YouTube channel or WhatsApp Chat with a Ford Ranger Specialist about the latest Ranger Raptor.


Modenas improves warranty programme with unlimited mileage from July 1

                SHAH ALAM: Edaran Modenas Sdn Bhd (Emos), the wholly owned subsidiary of Motosikal dan Enjin Nasional Sdn Bhd (Modenas), today announced the implementation of its two years with an unlimited mileage warranty programme for all Kawasaki and Modenas rebranded models from 250cc to the highest 1,000cc models that are registered from July 1 onwards.

The previous standard warranty was two years or 20,000km, whichever comes first.

With the newly revised warranty programme with unlimited mileage, owners can now enjoy longer rides to feel the performance of Kawasaki motorcycles.

The nationwide warranty programme will come as a factory standard which comprises:

> Kawasaki warrants each new part or accessory to be free of manufacturing defects for a period of 24 months from the original date of sale by an authorised Kawasaki dealer.

> The same terms and conditions apply to the new owner but the warranty expires in all cases after the specific period from the date of sale to the original purchaser.

> Kawasaki products perform best with regular maintenance and servicing, and each model has a maintenance schedule designed to keep operations at optimum performance levels.

As an additional benefit, the 24/7 roadside assist service will also be included in this new warranty programme.

The warranty will have the same current terms and conditions as per the standard manufacturer warranty and shall stay with the bike when sold or transferred to a new customer thus adding to the residual value.

Modenas chief executive officer Roslan Roskan said its users would be able to enjoy their motorcycles more freely and most importantly with peace of mind with the elimination of the mileage restriction.

He said the programme was also a testament to the quality of Modenas products.

Roslan added that owners should follow the service schedule so as not to void the warranty.

Visit Kawasaki Malaysia's official website at http://www.kawasaki.com.my/home or contact the Toll-Free Line at 1-800-880-008 or WhatsApp Careline at +6019-570 8135 to know more about the new warranty.


EV maker Nio to have 4,000 battery swapping stations globally in 2025

                BEIJING: Chinese electric vehicle maker Nio Inc plans to have 4,000 battery swapping stations globally in 2025, its president Qin Lihong said today.

The company, which makes premium electric cars, aims to have 700 battery swapping stations by the end of this year.

A battery swapping station allows drivers to change the battery in their cars to power the rides.

For the European market, NIO has chosen Norway as its first entry point.

The ES8, the flagship smart electric SUV with an electric range of around 500km (WLTP), is the first model NIO is offering in Europe. NIO's all-electric smart sedan ET7 will follow in 2022. Pre-orders for the ES8 will be available from July, with deliveries starting from September.

The company also plans to set up its entire product and service portfolio in Europe - including the innovative NIO Power Swap technology, which enables vehicle batteries to be automatically replaced within three minutes.

The first four stations are scheduled to go into operation before the end of 2021. More swap stations will be added in 2022, creating initially a power network in five cities in Norway.


New Toyota Prius PHEV to go on sale in Japan on March 15

                TOYOTA CITY: Toyota will start selling its all-new Prius plug-in hybrid (PHEV) in Japan on March 15.

The front-wheel drive model will be priced at 4,600,000 yen (RM152,000).

Prius hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) models were launched locally in January this year.

The new Prius PHEV, offered as the Z grade, is a high-performance version equipped with the latest plug-in hybrid system, which combines a compact, high-capacity drive battery, high-output drive motor, and high-efficiency gasoline engine.

Toyota said the main features of the plug-in hybrid system are:

> THE PHEV can cover the majority of daily driving, including commuting and going shopping, using just the electric power from the charged battery. It offers the outstanding quietness and brisk motor-based driving performance of a battery electric vehicle (BEV). On longer drives, such as going on a trip, the engine supplements battery power to serve as a hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) that ensures the cruising range needed for traveling long distances with peace of mind. At the same time, the combination of motor and engine delivers the powerful yet comfortable driving performance unique to PHEV vehicles from the moment the accelerator is pressed.

> A unique PHEV external power supply system enables the car to supply power in a range of scenarios from daily living to emergency situations. This includes an external power supply mode that enables the car battery to provide power during outdoor, leisure, and other activities. There is also an external emergency power supply mode that provides a larger supply of power during blackouts, disasters, and other emergencies by using the engine to generate electricity.

The new Prius PHEV achieves a high level of dynamic performance with a maximum system output of 164 kW (223 PS) of power, which is about double that of the previous model.

The sprint from 0-100kph is achieved in 6.7 seconds.

This model also offers great fuel efficiency of 26.0 km/l with 19-inch tyres and 30.1 km/l with 17-inch tyres. BEV driving distance is 87km with 19-inch tires and 105km with 17-inch tyres, with the 105 km representing an improvement of 75% compared to the previous model.

Plug-in hybrid systems are an important powertrain option providing an immediately accessible pathway towards carbon neutrality. Toyota is working on all-round development of electric vehicles, including PHEVs, and hydrogen engines to achieve carbon neutrality and provide a range

Based on the latest fifth-generation hybrid system, the new Prius PHEV combines a compact, high-capacity drive battery and high-output drive motor in Toyota's first use of its newly developed 2.0-litre plug-in hybrid system.

The new Prius PHEV allow bidirectional charging. It uses electricity stored in the battery to provide an external power supply for outdoor, leisure, and other activities, and an HEV external power supply mode, which can use the car as a power supply during blackouts, disasters, and other emergencies.

In the HEV external power supply mode, electricity is supplied from the battery only until the remaining power falls to a set level, after which the engine starts to supply electricity. With a full battery charge and full tank of gas, this system can provide enough electricity for about five days of use.

It also comes with an external electric power supply attachment as standard so that external power supply is possible with the door windows closed to prevent rain and insects from getting in the car when in use. It is also equipped with a vehicle power connector that can be plugged into the charging inlet of the vehicle for use as an external power socket providing 1,500 W (100 VAC).

The new Prius PHEV is equipped with a second-generation solar charging system as an option.

The solar panels on the roof provide enough power to drive up to 1,250 km per year in BEV mode.

Electric power generated from the solar panel is used to charge the drive battery while parked, with the system not only supplying electricity for driving but for air conditioning and other functions as well. The system also supplies the auxiliary battery system when driving to reduce drive battery consumption.

The new Prius PHEV comes with a "My Room Mode" that lets users enjoy air conditioning and audio systems from the external power source by turning the power switch on during normal charging. Creating a comfortable interior space without running the engine, this feature turns the car interior into an additional room that can be used for teleworking, rest, or any other activities.

The all-new Prius uses the same body design for both the HEV and PHEV models, but with their individuality expressed through small differences in shapes and colour schemes.

The exclusive PHEV design comes with 19-inch aluminum wheels with a sporty and dynamic shape that creates a sense of high-performance driving, and a metallic silver lower grille and smoky gray tail lamps that emphasise technical advancement.


Toyota to make EV parts in India for domestic, export markets

                NEW DELHI: Toyota Motor Corp plans to make India a manufacturing hub for electric vehicle parts to meet demand there as well as for export to Japan and some Asean countries, says a senior company executive.

The carmaker plans to start by producing e-drives or electric powertrain parts used by different electric vehicle types, including battery EVs, plug-in hybrids and other hybrid models, Vikram Gulati, executive vice president at Toyota Kirloskar Motor said.

"The aspiration is to make India the manufacturing hub for cleaner technologies. This is about creating the building blocks," said Gulati.

He did not name the countries in Asean, or the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, that Toyota would export to.

The move follows the company's recent announcement that it will invest US$621 million in India to localise the supply chain for EVs, and is also part of its broader 2050 carbon-neutrality goals.

It also comes as Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government is offering companies billions of dollars in incentives to build EVs and their parts locally.

The bulk of the investment in India will be made by Toyota's local unit, Toyota Kirloskar Motor and Toyota Kirloskar Auto Parts (TKAP), a joint venture of Toyota Motor Corp, Aisin Seiki Co and Kirloskar Systems, the company said on Saturday.

The world's biggest carmaker said in December it plans to invest US$70 billion to electrify its automobiles by 2030, including developing battery EVs as it plays catch-up with global automakers investing billions of dollars in the shift to cleaner vehicles. read more

In India, however, Toyota is more focused on launching its hybrid models first, which it believes are better suited to the country's aim of reducing dependence on fossil fuels and carbon emissions.

Gulati said this would also address varying consumer needs and enable "a faster transition towards an electrified future".

Building out the supply chain early will help Toyota become competitive in terms of volume and price in India, Gulati said.

Toyota expects this to enable a "faster and smoother" shift for the Indian auto industry to electric-vehicle technology, he added.


Porsche banks on its first electric car

                BERLIN: Porsche will spend about 1 billion euros (RM4.6bil) on production facilities at its biggest plant to make its first-ever all-electric sports car.

The Volkswagen-owned manufacturer will create more than 1,000 new jobs at its base in Zuffenhausen in Germany where a new paint shop and assembly line will be set up to build the battery-powered "Mission E" model, Porsche said.

Porsche's investment in emissions-free drive technology reflects parent VW's growing commitment to increase its electric offerings as it struggles to overcome an emissions scandal.

VW has said the next generation of its VW-badged flagship luxury saloon Phaeton will be electric and it plans to expand the so-called MQB modular production platform to focus more strongly on long-range plug-in hybrids and electric vehicles.

Analysts have warned that VW's admission of rigging diesel emissions tests could cast a shadow over the diesel vehicle industry.

Porsche's Mission E model, due to come to market by the end of the decade, will be more than 600hp and have a range of over 500km (310 mile).

"We are sending a significant sign for the future of the brand," Chairman Wolfgang Porsche said after a meeting of the supervisory board which approved the investment.

Some 700 million euros will be spent at Zuffenhausen where an existing engine plant and body shop will be extended, and the rest will be invested in Porsche's development centre in Weissach, the carmaker said.


CES 2016:  Connecting the connected car to the connected home

 The Vinli device is plugged into a car's data port.

LAS VEGAS: Built on the Vinli platform, Vinli Home Connect brings compatible connected home platforms together into one interface with the connected car.

There is no debating that the connected car is coming or that it is needed, especially if one day autonomous driving is to become a reality. But why stop at connecting cars to other cars and road infrastructure, when they can also connect to every other element of its owner's life?

"We're seeing this rapid growth of integrations being developed for the connected home and car markets," said Mark Haidar, founder and CEO of Vinli.

And as the Internet of Things moves from being a concept that technophiles get excited about and into the realms of consumer reality, the car could play a huge role in managing how different connected and smart home systems function.

At the CES on Wednesday, Vinli will be demonstrating its new platform - Vinli Home Connect - which aims to accelerate this future by addressing one big problem that's already beginning to emerge: fragmentation. With so many different companies trying to develop smart devices, interoperability - i.e. the ability to work with similar devices and systems from other firms - is taking a back seat.

"This is creating a fragmentation problem and frustration for the consumer," explains Haidar. "Our team has created an elegant, easy-to-use solution for connected homes in the US and abroad, so consumers can seamlessly manage their network of connected home products and connected vehicles, all from a single source."

The device element is a dongle that fits a car's diagnostic port to give it LTE/4G/wi-fi and the platform to which it connects can support products and services from Nest and Samsung's SmartThings.

This ability to work with other companies means that not only will Vinli's system notify you when your teenage son is driving too quickly or has gone beyond a geographical boundary, but it can also automatically activate or deactivate home-based systems.

When the car pulls out of the driveway, the heating automatically shuts off, lights come on to give the illusion someone is home, but all of the smart doors are bolted.

According to the latest Parks Associates research, nearly two-thirds of US drivers want connected car functionality as standard on their next new ride and 25% of consumers are already intrigued by the possibilities of using their car as a way of remotely controlling home functions.

And Vinli's system will work with pretty much any car built within the last two decades, as long as it has a second generation diagnostics port.

"We're proud of the way our Vinli platform is opening up any car to the rest of the connected world," said Haidar. "But we're not stopping there."


2017 New York Auto Show: Fourth-gen KIA Rio headed for American market

                NEW YORK: KIA's new fourth-generation Rio in sedan and 5-door hatch formats are the latest additions to the model line-up of Kia Motors America (KMA).

The cars have been penned at the Korean carmaker's European and U.S. design studios in collaboration with its design base in Namyang, Korea.

They have been touted to have a combination of impressive fuel efficiency, innovative technology, advanced safety features, everyday convenience and a fun-to-drive character for value-conscious consumers.

The cars get crisp lines crisp lines and smooth surfaces, providing sophistication and a sporty look over its predecessor, while rolling on 15-inch wheels.

The front end wears the latest iteration of Kia’s ‘tiger-nose’ grille, integrating newly designed headlights that are swept back for a more aggressive appearance.

In addition, the Rio’s fog lamp surrounds have been moved outwards, creating greater visual width to the front fascia and a lower window line around the cabin provides the driver and passengers with a better all-round view.

Significant changes for both the sedan and hatcback include a longer wheelbase at 2,580mm (+10mm) and measuring 4,384mm-long (+16mm), while the hatchback is now 4,064mm-long (+15mm).

They also have more upright A-pillars to match the lower and wider stance over its predecessor as well as a well-creased shoulder line that runs from front to back.

The rear of the Rio is also more upright due to the shorter overhangs and thinner taillights and, like the front-end, the rear view of the car is now wider.

Inside, it's not only more spacious, but also modern and upscaled with an improved instrument panel, ergonomic layout and upgraded materials.

Horizontal lines run the width of the dashboard and mimics the exterior design, giving the cabin a wider and more expansive look and feel.

For convenience, the centre console offers a bi-level tray to better accommodate items such as smartphones and tablets.

Front occupants will enjoy more head room, leg room and shoulder room while those in the second row will benefit from greater leg- and shoulder room.
SUch improvements are the result of the re-profiled door trims, new material for the headliner and a reshaping of the dashboard.

The boot will be able to hold 493 litres (hatchback - 388 litres) or 1,034 litres (hatchback - 929 litres) with the rear seats folded down for a flat cargo floor.

The front seats now feature a slimmer design with more cushion and padding, while high-tech equipment such as Bluetooth hands-free functionality, six-speaker sound system with satellite radio and a reverse camera system come as standard.

The range-topping EX trim is the only one that has a 7.0-inch floating touchscreen interface, UVO3 voice recognition infotainment system and smartphone integration through Android Auto and Apple CarPlay - all of which are not typically found in the subcompact segment.

In total, there will be three trims available – starting with the entry-level LX, S and EX, which is being powered by a 130hp Gamma 1.6-litre GDI four-cylinder engine that spins the front wheels via a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission.

A new suspension system made up of fully-independant MacPherson struts (front) and a rear torsion beam for ride and handling for the sub-compact that weighs (kerb) in at 1,201kg (manual transmission) and 1,231kg 2,714 (automatic).

Stopping power comes from the front pair of 11.0-inch disc brakes and rear drum brakes, however, the EX model uses 10.3-inch disc brakes at the rear.

There's also extensive use of advanced high strength steel to increase durability, collision test performance and torsional stiffness, while also reducing weight, for improved handling and ride quality.

For reduced noise, vibration and harshness (NVH), the Rio uses body sealing and bonding adhesives to dampen sound pathways throughout its construction.

The all-new Rio is targeting the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) Top Safety Pick designation and a 5-star rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

Standard safety features include six airbags, side-impact door beams, electronic stability control, four-wheel anti-lock braking system, hill-start assist control and vehicle stability management.

“Value has always been a core tenet for the Kia brand and the all-new Rio sedan and 5-door continue to underscore our commitment to those buyers looking for an entry-level vehicle but desire more than what the sub-compact segment currently offers,” said KMA vice president (product planning) Orth Hedrick.

KIA Rio 5-door hatchback

KIA Rio sedan


May 3-9: No movement in fuel prices

PETALING JAYA: This bit of news is starting to sound like a broken record.

Yep! Fuel prices continue to stay unchanged for the fifth straight week even as global crude oil prices are trending up.

The prices were announced on RTM this evening as Malaysians prepare to head to the polling booth on May 9.


Volvo kicks off XC60 production with white T5 AWD Inscription

                GOTHENBURG: Volvo began production of the XC60 mid-size SUV, rolling out the vehicle - a T5 AWD Inscription in Crystal White - on Wednesday.

The new vehicle replaces the original XC60, which in the nine years since its launch became the best-selling premium mid-sized SUV in Europe, with nearly a million units sold globally. The XC60 today represents around 30 per cent of Volvo’s total global sales.

The XC60 is the fourth model based on Volvo’s in-house-developed SPA vehicle architecture, following the introduction of the top-of-the-line 90 series in recent years.

The new XC60, one of the safest cars ever made, is loaded with new technology. Steer Assist has been added to the ground-breaking City Safety system. A new safety system called Oncoming Lane Mitigation uses Steer Assist to help mitigate head-on collisions, while Volvo’s Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) now uses Steer Assist functionality to reduce the risk of lane-changing collisions.

Pilot Assist, Volvo’s advanced semi-autonomous driver-assistance system, which takes care of the steering, acceleration and braking on well-marked roads up to 130kph, is available in the new XC60 as an option.

The new XC60 offers Volvo’s award-winning T8 Twin Engine petrol plug-in hybrid at the top of the powertrain range, delivering 407hp and acceleration from 0-100kph in 5.3 seconds.

In the cabin, the new CleanZone four-zone climate control system removes harmful pollutants and particles from outside to deliver Scandinavian-fresh air on the inside.

Volvo Cars’ driver infotainment and connected services offer, Sensus, and the Volvo On Call app both receive a graphical update with improved usability. As in the 90 series cars, smartphone integration with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay is also available.

The new XC60 is now on sale and will roll out gradually to markets across the globe.


UK startup Britishvolt picks site for US$3.5bil battery plant

                LONDON: Electric vehicle battery startup Britishvolt said today it had selected a site in northern England to build a £2.6 billion (RM14bil) factory that should start production in 2023.

The company, which so far has said it has raised about £10 million (RM54mil), said the plant in the port of Blyth would be built in three stages, employing up to 3,000 people and producing at least 300,000 lithium-ion batteries a year by 2027.

Britishvolt has applied for backing from a £1 billion (RM5.4bil) British government fund set up to support the mass production of batteries and help the auto industry shift towards making electric vehicles (EVs).

The fund was announced by British Prime Minister Boris Johnson last month as part of plans to ban the sale of new cars and vans that run solely on petrol and diesel cars from 2030. Hybrid vehicles can still be sold until 2035.

Britishvolt is the only company so far to announce plans to build new battery production in Britain.

Chief strategy officer Isobel Sheldon said Britishvolt’s batteries would perform 20% to 25% better than Tesla Inc’s, the electric carmaker that dominates global EV sales.

She said the company was raising more money and considering a stock market listing.

A wave of EV-related startups have gone public around the world this year, typically involving a reverse merger with a special purpose acquisition company (SPAC).

The top performer among them is battery startup QuantumScape Corp.

China now hosts roughly 80% of the world’s lithium-ion cell production, but the European Union plans to boost local output and could be self-sufficient by 2025.

Europe has 15 large-scale battery cell factories under construction, including Northvolt’s plants in Sweden and Germany, Chinese battery maker CATL’s German facility, and South Korean firm SK Innovation’s second plant in Hungary.

Tesla is also building a car and battery factory in Germany.


BMW in partnerships to introduce 5 Series accessories

                MUNICH: With the new BMW 5 Series Sedan on sale in Europe, BMW Lifestyle has teamed up with Montblanc, Bowers & Wilkins and Moleskine to present a series of accessories.

They are a BMW Activity Key Set, BMW Headphones and a BMW Smart Writing Set.

With its compact dimensions of 5x2 cm, the Activity Key is a wearable car key that dispenses with the need to press a button to unlock the car. Thanks to its modular design, there are a number of different ways to stow the key away so that it is secure but accessible.

The Montblanc leather wristband in black cowhide leather transforms the Activity Key into a personal accessory that can be worn on the wrist. The Activity Key Set also includes a key fob with leather insert embossed with the words “Montblanc for BMW”.

The acoustics of the Bowers & Wilkins surround sound systems available for the 5 Series can also be enjoyed while away from the car through the on-ear BMW Headphones Bowers & Wilkins P3 S2.

And with Moleskine, BMW is introducing the Smart Writing Set, which mixes analogue and digital content. Text and images can be produced by hand in the Moleskine note-book, known as the Paper Tablet, then transferred digitally to a smartphone or tablet ready for further use there. With the help oft the car´s Microsoft Office 365, users can display the content they created with the BMW Smart Writing Set.

The NCode technology from Moleskine makes it possible to detect where the Smart Pen+ is in relation to the pages of the Paper Tablet, so that every stroke of the pen is recorded. An accompanying app transfers the handwritten notes from the note-book to the mobile device’s screen, while the content can also be displayed and shared using Microsoft office 365 in the 5 Series.

The BMW Smart Writing Set and the BMW Headphones Bowers & Wilkins are available from March at shop.bmw.com as well as from selected BMW dealers. The “Montblanc for BMW” Activity Key Set will be available from summer 2017.


2017 Geneva Motor Show: Honda Civic Type R races in

                GENEVA: Honda has revealed the all-new Civic Type R at the 2017 Geneva Motor Show, ahead of the model’s European launch in the summer. The new car builds on Honda’s heritage in developing high-performance hatchbacks, and represents the segment’s ultimate expression of dynamic purity.

Sharing the same fundamentals as the new Civic hatchback, the new Type R has been engineered from the ground up to deliver the most rewarding drive in the hot-hatch segment – both on road and on the race track.

The 2.0-litre VTEC TURBO "heart" of the multi-award-winning previous generation Type R has been optimised and refined and now produces 320 PS with peak torque of 400Nm. Throttle response and driveability have improved thanks to optimised engine control settings.

The smooth and precise six-speed manual transmission is further improved by a rev match control system, ensuring no compromise in the Type R’s intimate, rewarding connection with the driver.

The new Type R takes the lighter, more rigid body shell of the new Civic hatchback and adds further use of adhesive in key areas. Compared to the previous Type R, torsional rigidity is further improved by 38%.

The front Macpherson strut suspension of the standard hatchback is revised with new geometry to minimise torque steer and maximise sporty handling. At the rear, the new independent multi-link system of the standard car is improved with the use of rigid suspension arms.

An enhanced selection of driving modes give the car greater usability compared to the previous Type R. A new ‘Comfort’ setting sits alongside agile ‘Sport’ and track-focused ‘+R’ modes. Each selection tailors the adaptive dampers, steering force, gear shift feeling and throttle response of the car on demand.

The all-new Type R has a more comprehensive aerodynamic package than the previous model, including a smoother underbody, front air curtain, a lightweight rear wing and vortex generators at the trailing edge of the roof line. The muscular, aggressive body has a best-in-class balance between lift and drag, contributing to greater high speed stability.

Production of the new Civic Type R is anticipated to start in summer 2017 at Honda of the UK Manufacturing (HUM) in Swindon – the global manufacturing hub for the 10th generation Civic hatchback.

The Type R will be exported across Europe and to other markets around the world, including Japan and the US. Its arrival in North America will mark the first time that any Honda-badged Type R has been officially sold there.


2015 Geneva Motor Show ready to rumble

 CarSifu jetting into picturesque Geneva.

GENEVA: CarSifu is in Geneva – international city, financial centre and global hub of diplomacy - for the 2015 Geneva Motor Show.

Top marques from around the world are eager to show what they have to offer in production cars and concepts at the first major European car show of the year. Supercars, small SUVs and hot hatches look set to be the big draw when the show opens to the public from March 5-15.

(Read CarSifu’sWhat to look out for at Geneva show with lotsa photos)

Much of what will be showcased at the most prestigious event on the auto show circuit have already been divulged by the various car brands in the past weeks.

The 85th Geneva International Motor Show is being held at Palexpo, a convention centre located near the Geneva airport, offering seven halls and 102,000 square metres of exhibition space.

 Geneva hugs a huge alpine lake that has the same name. From the shorefront you could almost see right to the bottom of the shallows.

Some 130 new models and concept cars will be presented, with organisers forecasting visitor turnout at over 700,000. Last year's Geneva show attracted 670,000 visitors, a dip from the 2013 figure.

This year, some 900 vehicles will be on display, nearly a hundred of which already conform to the strict European Union emission norms that will come into effect in 2021.

The watchmaker TAG Heuer will pay homage to more than a hundred years of motor sports in a special interactive exhibition. The Car of the Year 2015, a prestigious prize awarded for more than 50 years by a jury of respected journalists, is be presented for the fourth time at the Geneva show.

CarSifu is here for the March 3-4 press preview of the show ahead of its public opening from March 5.

Stay tuned for our on-site reports from Geneva!

 Jet d’Eau, an iconic fountain, pumping half a cubic metre of water per second 140m into the air. Buildings fronting Lake Geneva at Quai du Mont-Blanc.


EV startup Fisker in talks with VW to use parts for SUV

                LOS ANGELES: Fisker Inc. said it is in talks with German auto giant Volkswagen AG to use key vehicle parts, including a battery, in an electric SUV scheduled to begin production in 2022.

The startup said in an investor presentation filed Monday with the Securities Exchange Commission that it plans to use VW’s modular electric-drive matrix, or MEB, platform to cut costs and halve development time for its debut model: the Ocean sport utility vehicle. It also will adopt that automaker’s battery technology to power the SUV.

Representatives for VW in the US didn’t have an immediate comment.

Shares of Apollo Global Management-sponsored blank-check company Spartan Energy Acquisition Corp., which agreed to merge with privately held Fisker, rose more than 6% in post-market trading.

Fisker chief executive officer Henrik Fisker said in an interview his company is in talks with several carmakers for parts-supply contracts but did not mention VW by name.

"We don’t need to make our own electric air conditioning, steering rack, even the platform itself,” he said.


VIDEO: The smart forrail - a new way of commuting?

                LONDON: Drive or take the train? This can sometimes be a dilemma for some, but a “smart” answer would be to use both modes of transportation simultaneously.

A division of Daimler AG, smart autombile manufactures and markets a range of microcars and subcompact vehicles and has transformed one of its cars into a…wait for it…smart forrail.

What once began life as a smart forfour, the car has been transformed into a train that holds four passengers comfortably - and yes it literally corners like it’s on rails.

It took engineers six months to transform the car, equipping it with 22-inch solid steel wheels (each weighing about 80kg per) and disconnecting the steering before welding aluminium supports between the axles so that the wheels were locked in position.

Interfleet, a specialised British train engineering business based in Derby, UK, is adept to working with 16-litre diesel locomotives weighing in at 70-tonnes, a stark difference when it comes to a 999cc one-tonne smart car.

Under close supervision by trained staff from the railway at all times, with a licensed train driver in the car throughout, each of its runs on 16km railway stretch took place at low speeds during a weekend on the privately operated Bluebell Railway.

Shortly after, the forrail reverted back to its forfour road-going alter ego – content with being spectacularly efficient, fun and ideal for commuting. On tarmac.


In China's electric car boom, global automakers select different gear

                TIANJIN: By 2020, Beijing says automakers must meet tough new green standards to cut epic pollution in China's cities. As domestic firms bet heavily on electric cars to meet that goal, foreign peers are set to stay in a different, petrol-driven gear.

In the latest sign of caution from global automakers in China, Germany's Audi last week unveiled a new factory for high-efficiency transmissions in Tianjin, to be used in petrol-powered cars. While Chinese firms go electric in the world's biggest auto market, Audi is intent on petrol engines that can run farther, cleaner, in tandem with hybrid technology.

As China's electrified vehicle production booms, some international industry officials warn in private that the ambitious electric goals of domestic firms could prove too costly, too risky, too far from what consumers actually want - and not a good fit with their operations elsewhere. Still, China doled out US$4.5 billion last year alone in green car subsidies.

"In 2020, most cars we will sell will be combustion engines, so to fulfill (fuel consumption targets) you have to improve the consumption of each and every car of the Audi model range," Audi China chief Joachim Wedler said at the opening of the new plant. Wedler didn't comment on Chinese peers' electric car plans.

Automakers globally have struggled to agree on what a greener future will hold for the industry. In China, Beijing and state-linked automakers have thrown their weight behind electric vehicles - despite the fact that the electricity they need may be generated from burning coal.

Under Beijing's 2020 requirements, on average cars must consume less than 5 litres of petrol per 100km - nearly 30 percent below current standard levels.

Beijing has rolled out a raft of incentives to push domestic automakers - foreign brands generally aren't eligible - to build more electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles, spurring a quadrupling in sales of these so-called "new energy vehicles" (NEVs) in 2015. Even with that surge, just 1.4 percent of cars sold in the first seven months of 2016 were NEVs, as concerns linger over driving range and home charging.

A powertrain manager at a major foreign automaker's China joint venture said domestic companies' smaller scale made them nimbler. Many are also state-linked, therefore obliged to support government policy, the manager said.

For example, Geely - controlled by Li Shufu, a member of the government's political consultative body - wants 90 percent of all sales to be NEVs by 2020. Meanwhile, state-backed GAC Motor plans to be able to produce up to 400,000 green energy cars annually by the end of this year.

Foreign automakers, who must form joint ventures with local partners to produce cars in China, have to consider a different dynamic - how manufacturing strategies on the mainland correlate with their traditional businesses and customers elsewhere.

The powertrain manager said his company, like Audi, is focusing on a more gradual strategy, developing more efficient engines as well as plug-in petrol-electric hybrids: an interim solution that will please a government intent on cutting harmful emissions.

Of course, foreign automakers aren't avoiding NEVs entirely.

General Motors' China venture last year pledged to spend $4 billion on electrification, developing 10 new energy models by 2020.

In Tianjin, Audi China chief Wedler said the German firm and partner China FAW Group plan to launch their first locally produced plug-in hybrid vehicle this year, with a new imported car based on the same principle on the way next year.

But Wedler acknowledged that as China's massive auto market evolves, automakers alone won't determine future directions.

"The whole picture is driven by legislation," Wedler said.


Bentley Bentayga V8 Design Series: styled and visually dynamic

                LONDON: Bentley is introducing the new Bentayga V8 Design Series – a contemporary styled and visually dynamic version of the world’s most luxurious SUV.

The Design Series blends unique Mulliner exterior and interior features, together with a suite of existing Bentayga options, to create a highly desirable special edition.

Handcrafted in Crewe, England, the special edition Bentayga V8 Design Series adds an all-new interior design finish with the Duotone interior palette offering four colourful  themes – Pillar Box Red, Orange, Mulliner White and Klein Blue – around a Beluga main hide.

Passengers are welcomed into an exquisitely created cabin by ‘Bentley’ illuminated treadplates, while a Front Seat Comfort specification and drilled alloy sports pedals and footrest are also standard.

The all-new carbon fibre weave applied to the dashboard and doors has been created especially for the Bentayga V8 Design Series. It features an intricate diamond quilted pattern with rich gloss finish.

Bentayga Blackline specification is included as standard, with imposing features such as a body-coloured lower front bumper apron and twin gloss black tailpipes, to showcase the V8’s distinctive burble. Discreet Design Series badging on the lower front doors identifies this Bentayga’s special edition credentials.

New Mulliner Paragon wheels are presented in a seven-spoke design, finished in a dark metallic Palladium Grey with polished accents.

With its new-generation 4.0-litre petrol engine, the V8’s dynamic unit develops 542bhp and 770Nm of torque.


Pilot-less air taxi takes off in Vienna demonstration flight

                VIENNA: As carmakers push ahead with self-driving vehicles, an Austrian aerospace company and its Chinese partner showed off their pilot-less “flying taxi” for the first time in Europe on Thursday.

The drone’s 16 propellers hummed loudly as it rose above the pitch at Vienna’s Generali Arena, home to soccer club Austria Wien. The slim plane, which weighs 340kg, circled in the air briefly and came down within a few minutes.

The EHang 216, which can seat two passengers, has been tested comprehensively and is essentially ready for mass production, said Derrick Xiong, co-founder of Chinese drone maker EHang.

Joining the race for new autonomous aircraft services that do not require runways, EHang entered a strategic partnership with Austria’s FACC, owned by Chinese aerospace group AVIC, last year, aiming to offer short-haul services for passengers, industrial equipment and urgent medical deliveries.

The drone can fly at up to 150kph for almost half an hour, FACC chief executive officer Robert Machtlinger said. “It can travel between 50km and 70km depending on the payload.”

The passenger cabin is small, with leg room that taller passengers might find less-than adequate, said an Austrian photographer who took part in a demonstration flight.

FACC says it has already received several thousand orders for the 300,000 euro (RM1.38mil) drone, with the highest demand in China.

Competitors working towards offering autonomous flying cars early in the next decade range from aerospace giant Airbus to Uber, and AeroMobil.

“Technically... urban mobility, flying without a pilot is possible, it’s not a dream, it’s existing,” said Machtlinger.

“What is hindering us to go into larger volumes is regulation,” he added. A future legal framework for autonomous flying vehicles should regulate communication with other planes and helicopters and provide traffic rules, he said.

Austria supports international efforts to quickly establish the necessary regulation, said transport minister Norbert Hofer.

“I hope that Austria will be the place where thousands of these drones, of these air taxis will be built and I hope that very soon we will see a lot of these air taxis in the air,” Hofer said.


Oct 6-12: RON97 petrol down 5 sen to RM3.95

                KUALA LUMPUR: The retail prices of RON97 petrol will drop five sen per litre while diesel and RON95 remain unchanged from Oct 6 to Oct 12.

The Finance Ministry, in a statement today, said the price of RON97 will drop from RM4.00 to RM3.95 per litre.

To protect consumers from the effects of global oil price hikes, the government has maintained RON95 at the ceiling price of RM2.05 per litre and diesel at RM2.15 per litre although the actual market prices of the two products have exceeded the set ceiling prices, it said.

The prices were set based on the weekly retail prices of petroleum products using the Automatic Pricing Mechanism formula.


US crosses electric-car tipping point for mass adoption

                NEW YORK: Many people of a certain age can recall the first time they held a smartphone. The devices were weird and expensive and novel enough to draw a crowd at parties. Then, less than a decade later, it became unusual not to own one.

That same society-altering shift is happening now with electric vehicles, according to a Bloomberg analysis of adoption rates around the world.

The US is the latest country to pass what’s become a critical EV tipping point: 5% of new car sales powered only by electricity.

This threshold signals the start of mass EV adoption, the period when technological preferences rapidly flip, according to the analysis.

For the past six months, the US joined Europe and China - collectively the three largest car markets - in moving beyond the 5% tipping point. If the US follows the trend established by 18 countries that came before it, a quarter of new car sales could be electric by the end of 2025. That would be a year or two ahead of most major forecasts.

Why is 5% so important?

Most successful new technologies - electricity, televisions, mobile phones, the internet, even LED lightbulbs - follow an S-shaped adoption curve.

Sales move at a crawl in the early-adopter phase, then surprisingly quickly once things go mainstream. (The top of the S curve represents the last holdouts who refuse to give up their old flip phones.)

In the case of electric vehicles, 5% seems to be the point when early adopters are overtaken by mainstream demand.

Before then, sales tend to be slow and unpredictable. Afterward, rapidly accelerating demand ensues.

It makes sense that countries around the world would follow similar patterns of EV adoption. Most impediments are universal: there aren’t enough public chargers, the cars are expensive and in limited supply, buyers don’t know much about them.

Once the road has been paved for the first 5%, the masses soon follow.

Thus the adoption curve followed by South Korea starting in 2021 ends up looking a lot like the one taken by China in 2018, which is similar to Norway after its first 5% quarter in 2013.

The next major car markets approaching the tipping point this year include Canada, Australia, and Spain.

A higher bar for hybrids

The analysis above is for vehicles that run on batteries only.

Some countries, primarily in Europe, were quicker to adopt plug-in hybrids, which have smaller batteries backed by a gasoline-powered engine.

Including those, the world just surpassed 20 million electric vehicles on the road, and that figure will double again by the end of next year, according to a recent report by analysts at BloombergNEF.

Since using a plug-in hybrid doesn’t require the same level of infrastructure or consumer awareness, the early phase of adoption was less consistent.

A consistent tipping point for this broader category of EVs wasn’t achieved until 10% of new vehicles had a plug.

The US and China mostly skipped plug-in hybrids and went straight to fully-electric vehicles, and the US hasn’t yet crossed the 10% threshold.
Behind every country that crossed an EV tipping point is a program of federal incentives and pollution standards.

In the US, the Biden administration last year issued an executive order calling for EVs to make up half of new vehicles by 2030 (including plug-in hybrids). According to the tipping-point analysis, it should beat that goal with several years to spare.

READ MORE: Carmakers start to starve combustion models out of existenceTipping the carmakers

Continued growth also depends on the ability of automakers and their suppliers to increase production fast enough.

Volkswagen, Ford, and BMW are each targeting 50% or more of their global sales to be fully electric by the end of the decade.

It turns out, automakers have tipping points, too. Factories must be retooled and supply chains reconfigured. To achieve the most cost savings, the entire vehicle must be redesigned with electrification in mind.

In Europe, once 10% of an automaker’s quarterly sales go electric, the share triples in less than two years.

The chart below doesn’t include Toyota, which is the biggest automaker that hasn’t reached the 10% EV threshold in Europe.

Toyota’s target of 3.5 million annual EV sales by 2030, as a share of its 10 million annual vehicle sales, is among the least aggressive of the major automakers. The chart also doesn’t include Tesla, the world’s biggest EV maker, whose sales are entirely electric.

Is the world’s transition to EVs inevitable?

So far, 90% of the world's EV sales have come from the US, China and Europe.

That means countries responsible for about a third of global annual auto sales haven't passed the tipping point. None of the countries in Latin America, Africa, or Southeast Asia has made the jump.

If they do, it’s uncertain whether global miners will be able to keep up with demand for battery metals.

Still, global sales of electric vehicles tripled in the last two years, according to the International Energy Agency.

All of the net growth in global car sales in 2021 came from electric cars, and that’s a trend that BloobmergNEF forecasts suggest will continue indefinitely.

This year could be the high water mark for vehicles on the road without a plug.

Applying the tipping point analysis to the entire globe, the share of fully electric vehicles worldwide passed the 5% threshold for the first time last year.

Including plug-in hybrids, the 10% tipping point will be passed sometime this year.

If the trends holds true, accelerating demand can be expected.


GM buys 25% stake in electric boat startup Pure Watercraft

                DETROIT: Top US automaker General Motors Co has bought a 25% stake in Pure Watercraft, valuing the electric boat startup at US$600 million, the companies said on Monday.

GM is offering US$150 million in a combination of cash and payment-in-kind, which includes access to the automaker's components and assistance with manufacturing, in exchange for the stake, Pure Watercraft said.

Founded in 2011, Seattle-based Pure Watercraft makes electric motors for boats powered by lithium-ion batteries and uses a plug-and-play design mechanism that allows for any boat hull to use its motors.

"Building upon GM's existing efforts to deploy our technology across rail, truck and aerospace industries, the combined expertise of these two enterprises should result in future zero-emissions marine product offerings," Dan Nicholson, vice president of GM's Global Electrification unit, said in a statement.

The carmaker in October outlined plans to double its revenue by 2030 and become the leader in US electric vehicle sales.

GM said it would disclose any products developed from the partnership with Pure Watercraft at a later date.


Kia Service App for Malaysia launched

                KUALA LUMPUR: Naza Kia Malaysia, the official distributor of Kia vehicles in Malaysia, has launched the Kia Service App to improve the brand’s aftersales service.

With the free app, Kia owners can now access appointment schedules and call back history as well as receive special offers and service updates.

Available on IOS or Android mobile devices, Kia owners only need to follow three simple steps to get the app running.

They would first need to download the app on Google Play or the App Store. After the download is complete, they must select ‘Malaysia’ as their country. Finally, they have to click ‘Join Us’ and register their information. This service is available for all Kia models and across Naza Kia Malaysia’s nationwide network.

“Free and user-friendly, the Kia Service App is our latest step in providing quick, easy and convenient Family-like Care for all Kia owners as part of our customer retention programme in order to deliver quality customer service,” said Naza Corp Holdings group chief operating officer (automotive group) Datuk Samson Anand George.

“Kia has implemented this Service App globally and across Asean to further improve and ultimately enhance the Kia ownership experience. Kia owners have vibrant lifestyles and are always on the go.

:The Kia Service App is our way of staying connected to our customers for all their wants and needs. We are confident that this efficient and reliable service app will meet customer expectations,” he said.


Isuzu Malaysia scores with highest ever truck sales of 6,546 in 2022

                KUALA LUMPUR: Isuzu Malaysia's truck brand has once again led Malaysia’s top-selling commercial vehicles last year.

The company made a historic milestone in having achieved the highest combined retail sales of 6,546 units, including light, medium and prime mover trucks.

This achievement has extended Isuzu’s market-leading position again as Malaysia’s top-selling truck brand for the ninth consecutive time and as the top-selling light-duty truck for the 13th time.

Isuzu Malaysia chief executive officer Shunsuke Okazoe said the company was extremely honoured and privileged to have retained the top spot in the country’s competitive truck market continuously year after year.

“The total number of truck sales we recorded for 2022 was a historic and unprecedented success, and which outperformed our previous record of 6,391 units of sale in 2015 by an increase of 155 units or 2.43%.

“The Isuzu brand has been dominating the market for many consecutive years and much of that strength comes from our light-duty Elf trucks.

 Isuzu Giga.

“However, in the middle of last year, we further made a significant impression with the entry of the new generation Isuzu Giga truck range, comprised of the ‘C & E’ series in five new models for high-demand customers in the heavy-duty and prime mover segment.

“These new generation trucks, which emphasised reliability, aerodynamic design and higher performance for increased efficiency, have captured the interest of our customers and proved to be a promising business contributor.

“This had further strengthened the Isuzu brand and enabled us to record an outstanding overall sale figure last year,” he said.

Okazoe said the company had executed several crucial elements that the stability of its competitive edge.

“Having an extensive and close rapport dealership network is definitely one of the important factors here.

“Our dealership network is in fact, the largest from a truck brand with 48 centres spread across every state and at strategic locations in Malaysia to deliver quality products and technical expertise and services to all our customers,” said Okazoe.

The global pandemic had also caused supply chain problems like labour shortages, parts inventory delays and fluctuation in sales, deeply impacting the auto sector and logistics industry as a whole.

Okazoe said the company was not spared from these challenges but it was able to overcome any long-term or major obstacle as a result of well-coordinated efforts between key stakeholders, especially with local assembling partner, Isuzu Hicom Malaysia.

This has enabled Isuzu Malaysia to ensure a continuous and sufficient supply of Isuzu products and superior quality control to customers, which keeps the Isuzu brand and business stable and ahead in the market.

“The year 2022 started out with renewed demand after a few years of market doldrums. During the market downturn, we felt compelled to remain optimistic and continue to be a nimble player within our operating environment,” he said.

For more details on Isuzu’s range of vehicles, call 1-300-88-1133 , visit https://trucks.isuzu.net.my/ or https://www.facebook.com/IsuzuTrucksMalaysia.


Jaguar aims for autonomous driving with a human touch

                LONDON: Jaguar Land Rover is taking to a new British road dedicated to developing connected and autonomous driving systems.

The 66km stretch of road is part of a multi-million-pound investment to accelerate the development of technologies that can cut accidents and reduce congestion. The project will involve a fleet of up to 100 adapted cars including five from Jaguar Land Rover being continuously tested in real-world conditions.

Jaguar Land Rover research and technology director Dr Wolfgang Epple said: "This real-life laboratory will allow Jaguar Land Rover's research team and project partners to test new connected and autonomous vehicle technologies on five different types of roads and junctions."

Initial testing will cover communication between vehicles and road infrastructure such as junctions and traffic lights and will look at the quickest and least distracting ways to bring drivers "over-the-horizon" information about potential problems on the route ahead.

"The benefits of smarter vehicles communicating with each other and their surroundings include a car sending a warning that it is braking heavily or stopping in a queue of traffic or around a bend. This will enable an autonomous car to take direct action and respond. Drivers would receive a visual and audible warning that another car is causing a hazard out of sight or over the horizon," said Dr Epple.

Jaguar also announced a parallel project in partnership with Bosch that will attempt to teach autonomous cars to drive themselves like human rather than robotic drivers.

A fleet of its cars are being given to people who work in the London Borough of Greenwich to learn how real-world drivers react to real-world driving situations.

The data gathered over the ‘MOVE-UK' project's three-year lifespan will also help insurers to determine risk and liability in certain scenarios.

"Understanding how drivers react to a range of very dynamic and random situations in the real world is essential if we want drivers to embrace autonomous cars in the future," explained Dr Epple.

"Drivers will need to completely trust the vehicle before they opt-in and engage automated systems. If an autonomous car can be programmed to have a very similar reaction to a real driver, then the autonomous experience will be more natural, and the driver more likely to allow the car to take control."


Get ready for Tokyo Auto Salon Kuala Lumpur from June 9-11

                KUALA LUMPUR: A fleet of specially imported show-stopping cars from Japan and tier-1 exhibitors and tuners in the likes of Top Secret, Spoon, HKS and Greddy among others will grace the inaugural hosting of the Tokyo Auto Salon Kuala Lumpur at the Malaysia International Trade & Exhibition Centre (MITEC) from June 9-11.

The show, a satellite event modelled identically after the world’s foremost renowned custom and performance car show in Japan, will cover a total floor space of 130,000 sq ft and is expected to draw 150,000 visitors from within Malaysian and the Asean region.

The show is being jointly organised by MUSE Group Asia and Element X Strategies, together with San Ei Corporation as the owner of the Tokyo Auto Salon intellectual property.

MUSE Group Asia chief executive officer Riduwan Matni said the group's intent had always been to bring this prestigious event to Malaysia since it organised the very first Tokyo Auto Salon outside of Japan in Singapore in 2013.

“And after three years of planning, we are glad to announce the Tokyo Auto Salon Kuala Lumpur for 2023 is now just months away,” said Riduwan at the promotion of the event today.

In 40 years of the Tokyo Auto Salon being organised, it has grown into one of if not the top-tiered international shows for both enthusiasts and exhibitors.

What originally began as a celebration of innovative and creative displays of Japanese manufactured cars has today evolved to include all makes and types of vehicles.

The show has also become accepted as a prestigious platform by vehicle manufacturers as well as aftermarket accessories and performance parts companies to showcase their latest and most innovative offerings.

Tokyo Auto Salon Kuala Lumpur offers an exciting opportunity for big and small automotive players in Malaysia and Asean to showcase their latest products and services with different sizes of booths available for rent.

More than 50% of the floor space has already been filled, and exhibitors already confirmed for the show include Red Springs Sdn Bhd that will curate the 4x4 exhibits, Hot Wheels, EMMA Malaysia and Soon Soon Garage.
Regional auto players joining include Option 4 Wheel from Thailand and Adtory-Minshing Automotives from China.

Tokyo Auto Salon Federation director-general Junichi Fukui said taking the Tokyo Auto Salon outside Japan was with the intention of securing greater exposure for its members and tapping into new and emerging markets.

“The Kuala Lumpur show will bring a more international flair with the display of locally-modified vehicles and exhibits featuring Malaysian and Asean engineered accessories and performance parts as well as services,” he said.

In addition to local and international exhibitors, Tokyo Auto Salon Kuala Lumpur will also feature a line-up of race queens from Japan.

A number of performances and workshops have also been curated for the show and early bird ticket buyers will be in the running for a lucky draw to win two pairs of an all-expense paid trip to the Tokyo Auto Salon in Japan in 2024.

Tickets are priced at RM60 and RM28 per day for adults and children respectively, but during the early bird ticket sales period from March 18-30, tickets will be available at 30% off which are RM40 and RM18 per day for adults and children.

Tickets are available online until the day of the show from www.tokyoautosalonkl.com.

For show enquiries, kindly contact Riduwan Matni at +6017 867 6373 or email riduwan@musegroup.asia or Azman Fahmi Osman at +6019 383 8183 or at azman@musegroup.asia.