JMC Vigus Pro 4X4: Total bang for the buck

                By JAY WONG

GOING up against the likes of the Ford Ranger, Isuzu D-Max, Mitsubishi Triton and Toyota Hilux, the JMC Vigus Pro 4X4 certainly has its work cut out within Malaysia’s hotly contested pick-up truck battleground.

Assembled and sold exclusively by Angka-Tan Motor (ATM) Sdn Bhd, the Vigus Pro entices with its RM98,888 asking price (on-the-road without insurance - Peninsular Malaysia).

As expected, affordability is the main spearhead of this second best-selling pick-up truck model in China.

Taking a look at its offerings, the Vigus Pro brings with it renowned, reputable and robust mechanical parts starting with a Ford-derived 2.0-litre Puma (Euro3) direct-injected diesel engine with a variable geometry turbocharger.

Furthermore, it impresses with the use of an eight-speed automatic transmission with paddle-shifters from German gearbox-maker ZF to manage power delivery to the Eaton differential lock and BorgWarner’s four-wheel-drive (4WD) system. Impressive names indeed.

Such a transmission is usually associated with more luxury-oriented brands.

Looks-wise, some might muse that the front grille with its chromed twin-horizontal slats and fog lamp areas may be obtusely oversized to leave little room for the logo and headlights.

Then again, doing so does help in pronouncing a sporty-aggressive appearance at the front while the rest of the body is hallmarked by chiselled musculature for its sheet metal to undoubtedly attract the more masculine buyers.

Although the specifications sheet does indicate that the Vigus Pro rolls on 16-inch wheels, it came fitted with 17-inch instead, an ATM representative clarified that it will be the first 100 customers while the fibreglass sports bar with a high-mounted integrated stop lamp is a standard fitment.

Some notable external necessaries such as the satin-finished front skid plate, side step-bars for ease of ingress, properly integrated reverse camera and cargo hook anchor points to help secure tall payloads (850kg-max) at the rear as well as front and aft parking sensors that will automatically activate.

Inside, the cabin is simple and while there are carpet mats to be had, the floor beneath them is lined with black vinyl to help prevent the lingering of dirt - a definite welcome for those who tend to venture off-road.

Standing out prominently is the two-spoked multi-function steering wheel that’s been wrapped in leather and provides for a girthy feel in the hands.

The “horn-like” electronic gear shifter with manual mode adds a welcomed touch of technological presence within - as does the Android-powered 8-inch touchscreen.

Owners will be happy to be provided with automatic headlights and wipers as well as folding exterior mirrors with integrated LED turn signals.

The availability of cruise control and paddle-shifters for that spirited experience are added plus.

The controls and buttons in general are “soft” in their operating ways and have been ergonomically designed into the dashboard with high levels of legibility and accessibility in mind.

Overall, the cabin has a pleasant experience and those who tend to partake on long hauls will be happy to note the plush nature of the fabric seats.

This experience is also extended to the front and rear passengers.

Power delivery from the 2.0-litre (1,998cc) turbodiesel mill is smooth with 141PS at 3,600rpm and 340Nm of torque from 1,500rpm to 2,600rpm.

Thanks to the ZF gearbox’s logic, shifts are notably smooth and relatively quick to adapt.

While vibrations are commonly associated with diesel-powered mills, there are very little of them intruding into the cabin regardless of whether the Vigus Pro is stationary, crawling or cruising.

Even when it is equipped with rear leaf springs, passenger comfort isn’t as jarring as one might expect.

Wind noise intrusion into the cabin becomes more apparent above 110kph.

Stopping power is impressive with plenty of brake feel and can be attributable to the Vigus Pro’s surprising standard inclusion of four disc brakes.

Off-roaders will be happy to note the inclusion of a roundel switch allowing the driver to switch between 2WD, 4WD (High) and 4WD (Low) on the fly - up to 30kph, along with hill-descent control and 225mm of ground clearance.

So far, little can fault the Vigus Pro given its offerings, necessities and high levels of practicality - until it meets a keen eye of course.

Without any doubt, much of the Vigus Pro does look and feel well put together.

Aside from the fact that it lacks certain features such as Android Auto or Apple CarPlay connectivity isn’t that big of a big deal – or that it has just two airbags, a non-telescopic steering wheel, halogen bulbs for the front and rear lights, a driver-side rubber wiper blade that’s a tad short in its coverage, and a dummy camera in the front grille probably due to the test unit being a fully-imported vehicle.

While rivals might have driver-side A-pillar grab handle and driver-side vanity mirror, their absence are not critical.

However, the Vigus Pro gets telescopic struts to hold the front hood up, LEDs for its daytime running lights and exterior mirror’s turn signals (with heating and automatic power-folding function), one-touch power windows with anti-pinch function and a rear step bumper.

Safety features are also not lacking with anti-lock braking system, electronic brakeforce distribution, electronic stability programme, traction control and hill-start assist.

ATM and JMC inked a Vehicle Technology Licensing agreement to allow ATM the sole right to manufacture, assemble and sell the Vigus Pro and its related parts and components in Malaysia.

The Vigus Pro is available across ATM’s 13 sales and service outlets nationwide.

SPECIFICATIONS

JMC Vigus Pro 4X4

Engine: 1,998cc, directed-injected Puma turbodiesel with VGT
Maximum power: 141PS at 3,600pm
Maximum torque: 340Nm from 1,500 to 2,600rpm
Transmission: Eight-speed ZF automatic
Drivetrain: BorgWarner 4WD system with Eaton rear differential lock
Steering: Rack and pinion hydraulic power steering system
Fuel tank: 68 litres
Fuel consumption: 7.8L/100km (UNECE R101 test)
Kerb weight: 1,995kg
Suspension: Front independent double-wishbone with coil springs, rear rigid axle with multi-leaf springs
Rear bed (with liner): 1,475mm x 1,475mm x 500mm
Features: Dual front airbags, anti-lock braking system, electronic brakeforce distribution, traction control, electronic stability programme, hill start assist, hill descent control (up to 8kph), automatic halogen "tiger eyes" headlights, halogen rear light clusters, automatic wipers, front and rear fog lamps, fibreglass sports bar with high-mounted integrated stop lamp, 17-inch alloy wheels (first 100 customers), 16-inch two-tone alloys with 265/70 Maxxis A/T tyres, automatic power-adjustable external mirrors with integrated LED turn signals (with heating and automatic power-folding function), LED C-shaped daytime running lights, side steps, rear bumper-step, front skid-plate, front and rear disc brakes, manually-adjustable fabric seats, speed-sensing automatic door locks, 2-spoke multi-function steering wheel with paddle-shifters, automatic up/down power windows with anti-pinch function, four-speaker Android-powered 8.0-inch infotainment touchscreen system (with Bluetooth connectivity, reverse camera, USB port, MP5 playback), manual climate controls, front and rear parking sensors and ISOFIX top tether points
Price: RM98,888 (on-the-road without insurance) with a 3-year/100,000km manufacturer's warranty


Toppan develops 'Black' light control film for automobiles

                TOKYO: A Japanese company has developed a "Normal Black" grade of LC Magic, a liquid crystal light control film that changes from transparent to opaque with the flick of a switch.

LC Magic Normal Black has a visible light transmission of 5% when power is off. Application to automobile windows and sunroofs creates bright, open spaces when power is on, while ensuring privacy when power is off. This can eliminate the need for shades, improve comfort, and reduce weight.

The shift to electric vehicles and progress of driving automation are expected to transform automobiles into places to relax.

At high levels of automation, interiors will become living spaces, and windows will need to protect privacy. Shades or curtains, however, require moving parts — taking up interior space, adding weight, and consuming more power.

Toppan has enabled a black colour for LC Magic that shields 95% of visible light when power is off. When power is on, a translucent light gray colour allows 43% of light to pass. Toppan is targeting mass production in fiscal 2024, when samples will be made available to various sectors of the mobility industry.

"The 'Normal Black' grade of LC Magic provides a number of advantages as we move towards more widespread use of electric and self-driving vehicles," said Fumio Ohnuma, general manager for light control device development at Toppan.

"It can provide a greater level of comfort and privacy inside vehicles while delivering benefits for manufacturers and designers due to its light weight, low power consumption, and seamless blending with interiors."

Established in Tokyo in 1900, Toppan is a global leader in communication, security, packaging, décor materials, and electronics solutions.


Take a virtual factory tour with AudiStream

                INGOLSTADT: Audi is offering its enthusiasts a guided tour of its production plant at Ingolstadt, Germany, all from the safety of home.

AudiStream is a online interactive tour of the largest Audi factory worldwide, the equivalent to the size of Monaco, and has its very own ‘Ingolstadt Audi’ train station.

Audi has been building cars at the colossal site for more than 70 years. In 2019 alone, it produced more than 441,608 cars.

Now with AudiStream, the site can be covered in as little as 15 minutes from anywhere in the world. All you need is a laptop or mobile internet-enabled device, and you can access AudiStream free of charge.

Audi is the first car manufacturer to offer such an initiative. Fans of the four rings will experience the A3 bodyshop and the A4 assembly line, all from a safe and virtual distance.

They will see how 2,300 cars are produced daily by 45,000 workers, moving through every part of the process, right up to the point when the engines are switched on for the very first time.

All along the way, visitors will learn all the technical and technological detail behind the famous Audi Vorsprung durch Technik philosophy, thanks to an experienced tour guide who can answer all those burning questions over a live interactive discussion or online chat.

To book a 20-minute time slot for the Audi factory tour, users simply need to visit www.audi.stream


Big mistake for big oil to dismiss electric car boom, says report

                PARIS: Oil companies underestimating the global market for electric vehicles could be caught unaware by weakened demand for petrol within a decade, analysts said.

Falling costs of electric cars and renewable technology may halt growth in oil demand from as early as 2020, they argued in a report.

The current boom in electric vehicles is on track to displace two million barrels of oil per day by 2025, they calculated. A similar drop in demand preceded the collapse of oil prices in 2014.

By 2035, that figure could quintuple, with electric cars accounting for a third of the road transport market, said the report, jointly issued by financial think tank Carbon Tracker and the Grantham Institute, both in London.

The power and road transport sectors account for about half of fossil fuel consumption, so growth in solar energy and electric vehicles can have a major impact on demand.

”Electric vehicles and solar power are game-changers that the fossil fuel industry consistently underestimates,” said Luke Sussams, a senior analyst at Carbon Tracker.

”Very few companies or institutions in the energy industry are really considering the upside if the technology explodes and grows exponentially,” he said.

Oil and gas giant BP, for example, predicted last week that oil demand from cars would continue to rise well into the mid-2030s.

In 2035, electric vehicles will only make up six percent of the global car fleet, it said in its 2017 Energy Outlook. Other fossil fuel companies have made similarly rosy forecasts for oil demand.

Non-industry analysts are split on how quickly electric vehicles will displace those powered by internal combustion engines.

The 29-nation International Energy Agency (IEA), formed after the 1973 oil crisis, sees relatively modest growth, resulting in an eight percent market share - about 150 million vehicles - by 2040, and only 1.3 million barrels of oil displaced per day.

Even their prescriptive “450 ppm” forecast - a blueprint for energy growth deemed consistent with capping global warming at two degrees Celsius (3.6 degrees Fahrenheit) - only foresees 710 million electric vehicles by that date.

Holding warming to 2C is the core goal of the 196-nation Paris climate treaty.

But the IEA’s poor track record for forecasting solar and wind growth suggests estimates for electric cars may be too conservative as well.

”The IEA and the oil companies are still playing catch up on renewables,” said Sussams. “Every year they are upgrading their assumptions around renewable energy penetration.” The IEA’s last revision was in October 2016.

Private forecaster Bloomberg New Energy Finance’s estimates, by contrast, are much closer to the new figures: a 22 percent market share for electric vehicles by 2035.

The disagreement on how quickly fossil fuel companies may face falling demand - and possibly stranded assets - is built into the assumptions behind the forecasts.

”We assume the electric vehicles will be cheaper than oil-burning combustion engine vehicles from 2020 onward,” explained Sussams.

The Carbon Tracker model also presumes very rapid growth, and an absence of bottlenecks, such as a shortage of charging stations.

China - the largest market in the world for electric vehicles-- sold more than half-a-million in 2016. ”That is close to exponential growth,” Sussams said.

The forecasts are also in line with those of major car makers, including Tesla, GM and major European manufacturers.

The 60-page report - entitled “The disruptive power of low-carbon technology" - notes that a 10 percent loss of the power market-share caused the collapse of the US coal mining industry.

Similarly, Europe’s five major utilities lost more than 100 billion euros (US$105 billion) in value from 2008 to 2013 “because they were unprepared for an eight percent growth in renewable power.”


Toyota launches new Mirai, promising better performance and range

UPDATE: The new Toyota Mirai was launched in Japan on Dec 9, 2020.

BRUSSELS: A year after presenting its prototype at the Tokyo Autoshow, Toyota is launching its new-generation Mirai, a pioneering vehicle model in hydrogen fuel cell energy.

The second generation Mirai displays much better range, with 850km on a single charge (according to Japanese standards) in comparison with 550km for the previous generation.

The 2021 Mirai is also much more powerful, boasting a 128 kW fuel cell stack, compared with 114 kW until now.

Borrowing the Lexus LS technical platform, the new Mirai goes from front-wheel drive to rear-wheel drive.

READ MORE: Toyota unveils new fuel cell car in fresh push on hydrogen tech

The new Mirai has a lower centre of gravity and a more rigid body. Toyota also revisited its design, with an extra seat (5) and a more streamlined shape.

It also moves upmarket, each model featuring a multimedia digital 12.3-inch screen connected to a 14-speaker audio system. The sedan also includes electronic driver-assist features such as collision warning and lane departure warning system.

Hydrogen fuel cell cars can be driven long distances with zero carbon emissions, the cars turning hydrogen and oxygen into electricity and water. Moreover, charging takes only a few minutes, unlike electric vehicles. Unfortunately, infrastructures in many regions are not yet widespread enough to make the most of this type of vehicle although many countries are investing in that area.


Mazda CX-60 flagship crossover comes with a kind of digital butler

                COLOGNE: Welcome back, sir. Please allow me to adjust the AC to your liking. Ah madam, I'll return the mirrors and seat to your settings, shall I?

A car that recognises not only who you are, but also remembers how you like to drive would appear to be the aim of Mazda's new flagship, a crossover that drivers don't just get into, but also log into.

As artificial intelligence and assistance systems shape everyday driving experiences in more and more ways, the smarts in Mazda's new top car put the emphasis on ease of use with user profiles - potentially handy for anyone sharing their car with other drivers.

In addition to a range of assistance systems, Mazda's new CX-60 uses facial recognition so that the car can recognise the driver and automatically adjust the seats, steering wheel and mirrors to their preferences.

Even the AC and music controls will be returned to their previous state, which should mean less time spent fiddling with dials to get your ideal settings.

While manufacturers like BMW and Volvo already use driver profiles based on keys, Mazda's new crossover is among some of the first cars to adjust a wide range of interior features based on facial recognition.

Mazda announced plans in March to internationally launch the stately new CX-60 at the top of its model range in mid-2022.

With a length of 4.75 metres, the crossover will enter the same class as SUVs like the Mercedes GLC and Kia Sorento. Prices in Europe are set to start at 47,390 euros.

With a wheelbase of 2.87 metres, the CX-60 is built on a completely new platform.

According to Mazda, the car's length offers a comfortable amount of space for five passengers and has a boot capacity of at least 570 litres (expandable to 1,726 litres).

Although the crossover follows the familiar design lines of the CX-3 and CX-5, it takes a completely new approach to the powertrain.

The Japanese maker has developed two new in-line six-cylinder engines with a displacement of 3.3 litres as a diesel and 3.0 litres as a petrol engine.

The CX-60 also comes with the brand's first plug-in hybrid to go on sale in Europe. Mazda is combining a 2.5-litre petrol engine with 191hp and a 136-hp electric motor and a buffer battery (17.8 kWh).

Mazda says system output is 327hp, making the CX-60 the company's most powerful road-ready model to date.

With combined power, the crossover can reach speeds of up to 200kph in purely electric mode, according to Mazda, and has a WLTP range of 63km.

According to the manufacturer, this pushes consumption down to 1.5 litres and CO2 emissions to 33 g/km.

All three engine variants are mated to a new eight-speed transmission and always power all four wheels.


Malaysia to install 10,000 EV charging points by 2025, says minister

                KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia aims to install 10,000 electric vehicle (EV) charging points by 2025 through the Low Carbon Mobility Blueprint, said Natural Resources, Environment and Climate Change Minister Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad.

He said there were now more than 10,000 registered EVs in the country and 900 public EV chargers.

"The ministry is also committed to increasing electricity generation from renewable energy sources through the Electricity Supply Generation Development Plan 2021-2039, while strengthening the grid and developing the EV ecosystem,” he said in his speech at Malaysia’s EV Conference 2023 here on Tuesday.

He said the key challenge was to make EV practical to all levels of society, but market forces alone might not be sufficient.

Hence, he said there should be appropriate incentives for both consumers and producers to speed up the transition to or adoption of EVs.

"We are doing Malaysia a disservice if we neglect our potential in EV while our neighbours are racing to excel in this industry. We already are a competitive auto industry player, so it’s a natural progression to take on EVs,” he said.

Besides that, he also stressed that promoting EV did not mean the government only wanted people to buy electric cars.

Naturally, he said the country must and would work towards the emergence of affordable and reliable public transportation powered by renewable energy.

"This is the best solution for all income groups although EV will remain a reality as long as cars are a feature of urban life,” he added.


Jeremy Clarkson 'horrified' Meghan column caused hurt

File photo of Clarkson. — Reuters
LONDON: British television presenter Jeremy Clarkson said today he was "horrified to have caused so much hurt" after a column he wrote in the Sun newspaper about Prince Harry's wife Meghan attracted more than 6,000 complaints.

In his Sunday column, Clarkson, who gained worldwide fame as presenter of motoring show "Top Gear", wrote of Meghan: "I hate her. Not like I hate (Scottish First Minister) Nicola Sturgeon or (serial killer) Rose West. I hate her on a cellular level."

"At night, I’m unable to sleep as I lie there, grinding my teeth and dreaming of the day when she is made to parade naked through the streets of every town in Britain while the crowds chant, 'Shame!' and throw lumps of excrement at her."

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex, as Harry and Meghan are officially known, stepped down from royal duties in March 2020, saying they wanted to forge new lives in the United States away from media harassment.

In a six-part Netflix documentary series which concluded last week, Meghan spoke about her treatment by the media leaving her feeling suicidal.

In a statement posted on Twitter today, Clarkson said: "Oh dear. I’ve rather put my foot in it. In a column I wrote about Meghan, I made a clumsy reference to a scene in Game of Thrones and this has gone down badly with a great many people."

"I’m horrified to have caused so much hurt and I shall be more careful in future," added Clarkson, who is known for being outspoken and controversial.

Britain's press standards regulator, the Independent Press Standards Organisation, said it had so far received "over 6,000 complaints about the article in question".


Honda Malaysia initiates flood relief programme

                PETALING JAYA: Honda Malaysia has unveiled its Flood Relief Programme to provide aid to Honda customers whose cars were affected by the recent floods.

Under the programme that is running from now until Jan 31 next year, Honda car owners would get a 25% discount on genuine parts among others.

Affected customers are advised to visit any of the Honda authorised dealers for assessment process and inspection service.

Honda customers who subscribed to Honda Insurance Plus (HiP) can enjoy free inspection for their cars to ensure that the cars are safe to drive and in good running condition, especially after the floods.

In addition to providing free towing service for cars damaged by the floods to the nearest Honda authorised dealership, HiP customers are entitled to receive flood allowance of up to RM1,500 to alleviate their burden.

At the same time, Honda Malaysia is working closely with the insurance companies to expedite the claim process for affected customers.

Honda Insurance Plus (HiP) emphasises three pillars – Rescue, Protection and Savings, in line with Honda Malaysia’s commitment to providing peace of mind and protection for all Honda car owners and their cars through a comprehensive coverage.

It also comes with roadside assistance where the rescue teams are always ready to assist and help customers at anytime and anywhere.

Honda Malaysia managing director and chief executive officer Madoka Chujo said the company was deeply saddened by the floods that have inundated several states in Malaysia, which resulted in the evacuation of many people from their homes and caused significant damage to their properties and motor vehicles.

“Striving to be a company society wants to exist, we continue to look for ways to help the communities around us who are in need.

“We hope that with this Flood Relief Programme, we can help to relieve the burden of our valued customers. Our thoughts and prayers are with the people who are affected by the floods, and we hope everyone continues to stay safe during these challenging times,” she said

For more information on the Flood Relief Programme and HiP, customers can call Honda Malaysia’s Toll-Free number at 1-800-88-2020 or log on to Honda Malaysia official website at www.honda.com.my.


London introduces charge on most polluting vehicles

                LONDON: London introduced a charge on the oldest and most polluting vehicles today to try to improve air quality in the British capital, the city’s mayor, Sadiq Khan, said.

Called the T-charge, the 10 pound (RM56) daily tax applies to diesel and petrol vehicles typically registered before 2006 which do not meet the so-called “Euro 4” 2005 European directive to regulate vehicle emissions.

The new charge will applied during the same 7am to 6pm weekday hours as the existing 11.5-pound (RM65) congestion tax and could mean some owners paying a combined 21.50 pounds (RM121) a day to drive in central London.

“As mayor, I am determined to take urgent action to help clean up London’s lethal air. The shameful scale of the public health crisis London faces, with thousands of premature deaths caused by air pollution, must be addressed,” Khan said in a statement.

“Today marks a major milestone in this journey with the introduction of the T-Charge to encourage motorists to ditch polluting, harmful vehicles.”

The measures comes after Britain’s High Court ruled that UK government measures to combat air pollution were failing to comply with European Union rules on nitrogen dioxide limits.

The new measure is part of an 875 million pound (RM4.9bil) effort by the mayor’s office to address air pollution in London, with the introduction of an Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) slated for 2019.

Nearly 9,500 Londoners die prematurely every year as a result of long-term exposure to air pollution, according to a 2015 study by researchers at King’s College London.


Merged PSA and Fiat would retain all brands, says Tavares

                PARIS/TURIN: Peugeot maker PSA Group and Fiat Chrysler would retain all of their car brands if their planned US$50 billion merger goes ahead, the would-be chief executive of the combined group said on Friday.

PSA CEO Carlos Tavares, seen as the architect of PSA’s turnaround and in line to take the operational helm in the Fiat tie-up, said in a TV interview that the companies complemented each other well geographically and in terms of technology and brands.

FCA derives 66% of its revenue from North America compared with only 5.7% for PSA, Refinitiv Eikon data shows. Europe remains the main revenue driver for PSA.

“There’s no doubt it’s a very good deal for both parties. It’s a win-win,” Tavares told France’s BFM Business, in his first interview since the French and Italian companies announced plans to create the world’s fourth-largest auto maker last week.

Fiat Chrysler (FCA) Chairman John Elkann, who would chair the combined group, said on Friday at an event in Turin that the 50-50 share merger would help the Italian carmaker “seize great opportunities.”

The deal, which would help the firms pool resources to meet tough new emissions rules and investments in electric and self-driving vehicles, as well as counter a broader downturn in car markers, is still at an early stage.

PSA and Fiat have said they aim to reach a binding outline in the coming weeks, but still face questions over potential job losses, as well as scrutiny over whether the transaction favours one party more than the other.

Tavares said the brands that would come under the combined group’s umbrella - PSA’s five passenger car labels include Citroen and Vauxhall, while FCA has nine, including Alfa Romeo, Maserati and Jeep - were all likely to survive.

“As of today, I don’t see any need to scrap any of the brands if the deal came to pass. They all have their history and their strengths,” Tavares said.

Few carmakers have as large a portfolio, with German rival Volkswagen counting 10 passenger brands, if newer Chinese ones such as electric vehicle label Sihao are included.

Job cuts?

The merger will also require approval from anti-trust authorities.

Tavares said he did not expect the companies to have to make major concessions to meet competition rules, but added they were ready to do so, without giving details.

One of thorniest aspects of the deal are the potential job losses at stake in a group with a combined workforce of around 400,000, with governments in Rome and Paris as well as unions poring over the implications.

Tavares reaffirmed that the firms could reach billions of euros in annual cost savings without closing factories. But he did not rule out job cuts when pressed, only stating: “That’s the car industry, it’s not about PSA.”

“Margins are continually under pressure and you have to permanently be looking for productivity gains,” he added, pointing to stricter regulations on everything from safety to pollution.

Answering a question on the merger being already a done deal, Elkann said a long time could pass between the announcement of a merger and getting it over the line.

Tavares, meanwhile, said the companies remained prudent, adding he’d seen transactions scuppered when parties got into the details, but that talks toward a binding agreement were evolving favorably.

“Given all the necessary regulatory approvals that need to be granted, such a deal cannot be closed in less than a year,” Tavares added.

FCA abandoned merger talks with PSA’s French rival Renault less than five months ago.


Hackers turn red traffic lights green using flaw in German system

                HANOVER: Motorists who dream of cruising through cities with all the traffic lights turning green as they go might like to visit Hanover in Germany, where hackers have made this possible.

Using a simple laptop, a radio and an antenna, a group of computer specialists hacked into the traffic lights at various intersections from a car and outwitted the system.

A few seconds after a radio command was entered on the keyboard, the traffic lights ahead on a busy Hanover highway changed to green.

A demonstration was shown on German broadcaster NDR in early December after the hackers contacted the TV station and a computer magazine to warn of the potential glitch.

The outdated technology, which is in used in at least 80 German cities, is designed to enable local buses and police, ambulance and fire brigade emergency vehicles to make swift progress.

The systems are not installed at all traffic lights, but mostly found along bus routes and at busy traffic junctions. The "remote control system" uses unencrypted analogue radio frequencies - a decades-old technology.

According to the IT experts, it is technically impossible to cause accidents by setting all the traffic lights at a junction to green at the same time.

Others warned, however, that traffic lights could be manipulated to cause gridlocks in cities. Officials in Western countries supporting Ukraine's defence against Russia's invasion have become wary of potential infrastructure weaknesses that could be exploited by foreign agents.

Officials in Hanover did not comment officially on the hacking activities, but said they were currently developing a more secure digital control system for traffic lights.


Win BHPetrol’s Limited Edition Merdeka Gold Coins

                PETALING JAYA: From the now until end July of 2017, pile up your contest entry forms as BHPetrol is happy to invite all motorists to participate in its latest contest.

In the upcoming celebration of Malaysia's 60th Independence Day, stand a chance of owning BHPetrol Limited Edition 999.9 Gold Coins worth of RM4,000 each.

For a minimum RM30 purchase of Infiniti fuels (RON95, RON97 & Euro5 Diesel) made in a single receipt, customers shall be given a free tissue box, in which a piece of filling form is included.

Provide the right answers on the form and drop off the form to any participating BHPetrol station. Only one form is provided per receipt, however, customers may send in as many forms as they like after collecting the contest forms made available inside the free tissue boxes.

There are 60 gold coins of prized possessions, each valued at approximately RM4,000 ready to go home to 60 lucky winners in conjunction with Malaysia's 60th year National Day celebration.

Only one winner is eligible for each BHPetrol Limited Edition Gold Coin.

BHPetrol's General Manager Supply, Retail and Government Public Affairs, Ir Azizul Azily Ahmad said during a soft launch of the promotion, "This latest promotion is held to mark BHPetrol's festive celebration in commemorating our nation's milestone of reaching 60th year of freedom.

"This year, we would like to give back to our loyal customers as to show appreciation for their endless support and admiration. In the harmonious spirit of the National Day, we are honoured to celebrate the festive day by rewarding them with the specially designed BHPetrol Limited Edition Gold Coins through this contest."

Also present was BHPetrol's Retail Marketing Manager, Baba Tan.

The 60 lucky winners will be notified in the month of August to coincide with Malaysia’s Merdeka month celebration.


Budget 2023: Infra projects get boost with RM16.5bil allocation for transport sector

                KUALA LUMPUR: A total of RM16.5bil out of the RM95bil allocated for development expenditure in Budget 2023 has been extended to the transport sector, says the Finance Minister.

Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz said this is through major infrastructure projects, especially the Pan Borneo Highway, the Gemas-Johor Baru Electrified Double Track project, East Coast Rail Link (ECRL), RTS Link and Central Spine Road.

“The Pan Borneo Highway project in Sarawak is expected to be fully completed soon, while the highway project in Sabah will be completed by 2024,” he said when tabling Budget 2023.

He also said RM11.4bil has been set aside for the repair and maintenance of assets including federal roads.

According to him, Phase 2 of the Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) 2 project -involving the Kampung Batu station to Putrajaya Sentral - is almost complete and is expected to start operating in January 2023 for the benefit of the people of the Klang Valley.

He added the government is committed to completing the Kuala Lumpur rail network with a 50.8km- line under the MRT3 project.

MRT3 Phase 1 is expected to complete in 2028 while Phase 2 in 2030.

This project involves a cost of RM50.2bil with a projected expenditure of RM3.3bil in 2023.

In related transport news, the government has agreed to bear the licence fee under the MyPSV programme, as well as the B2 class motorcycle driving licence fee to help B40 youth who generate income through services such as taxis, buses and e-hailing.

Tengku Zafrul also announced a 50% duty exemption on the purchase of locally assembled completely knocked-down (CKD) tourism vehicles for the use of rental and drive and tour buses.


Maxus G10 features top technologies from SAIC Motor

                SHANGHAI: Shanghai Automotive Industry Corp (SAIC) has big plans to grow its self-owned commercial vehicle marque Maxus beyond the gigantic China market.

In Malaysia, SAIC Motor has a partnership with the Weststar Group which has been selling Maxus V80 vans and more recently, the China-built G10, a 10-seater premium multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) priced at RM137,888 on-the-road.

The Torino-designed G10 has been a hit with sales of over 600 units to date.

The G10, billed as the ultimate people mover, is powered by a 2.0-litre petrol turbocharged engine with direct injection and 225hp and 345Nm, mated to a ZF-sourced six-speed automatic transmission with manual mode.

SAIC Motor Corp Ltd is the leading automaker in China, thanks to its joint ventures with Volkswagen and General Motors.

Last year, SAIC Motor sold a staggering 6.49 million vehicles.

SAIC Motor Technology Centre in Anting

On a recent media familiarisation trip, journalists paid an eye-opening visit to SAIC Motor's Technology Centre in Anting, Shanghai.

The massive research and development site includes facilities for automotive design, prototype trial-manufacturing and powertrain laboratories for alternative energy vehicles such as fuel cell and hybrids.

Journalists were shown simulators for safety systems such as Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) and Forward Collision Warning (FCW), and were told that these technologies were developed in collaboration with Jilin University.

The camera systems and software were sourced from Mobileye, a global leader in the development of vision technology for Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) and autonomous driving.

This was followed by a visit to a huge hangar-like building, where crash tests are done for Roewe, MG and Maxus vehicles before the new models are sent for New Car Assessment Programme (NCAP) safety testing.

It was akin to a movie set with a recreation of a typical urban street scene, complete with inflatable replica cars and life-size cardboard cutouts of trees and pedestrians, shoppers, street sweepers and even a policewoman.

SAIC Motor engineers also conducted a demonstration of the impact on the legs of a pedestrian, in a vehicle collision at speeds of up to 40kph.

Another impressive facility was the thermal wind tunnel, where vehicles are tested under extreme conditions.

Here, temperatures can reach a bone-freezing minus 40 degrees Celsius or even up to a scorching 60 degrees Celsius, and air speeds up to 300kph.

"We can simulate snow and rain conditions, and test for various humidity levels. We regularly do tests simulating high temperatures in the Middle East market, and extremely cold temperatures in North China," said a SAIC Motor spokesperson.

Next, it was a visit to the powertrain test and development laboratory where calibration, combustion, performance, fuel consumption and emissions tests are conducted.

We were told that this is where development is continuously done for the group's powertrains and engine family - 1.0 litre to 2.0 turbocharged engines, 6-speed dual-clutch transmissions and hybrid technology.

Another building houses the group's test facilities for NVH (noise, vibration, harshness), acoustics, chassis, vehicle insulation, brake and steering systems.

Journalists were shown massive rigs and vibrating test equipment on which dampers and suspension systems are put through extreme durability testing, under a range of operational conditions.

We also visited acoustic control centres designed by IAC Acoustics, a world leader in the field of sound control.

"We do thousands of tests just to obtain the right "slam door" noise, as customers believe this indicates vehicle quality," said a SAIC Motor technician.

READ ALSO: Westar Maxus G10 SE variant: More premium kit at RM157,888
READ ALSO: Maxus G10 MPV selling well in Malaysia
READ ALSO: Maxus T60 pick-up truck may enter Malaysia
READ ALSO: Weststar Maxus launches 10-seat G10 people mover


BMW tests hydrogen burner at German plant, expands battery assembly lines

                LEIPZIG: BMW is testing a burner able to operate on both hydrogen and gas in its paint shop here, the carmaker said on Thursday, as it also announced an €800-million (RM3.7bil) investment in new battery assembly lines at the plant.

The burner, developed together with combustion technology firm Saacke to reduce carbon emissions in the production process, is able to switch from hydrogen to gas or vice versa while in use.

For now, the carmaker buys hydrogen made with natural gas and buys certificates for green hydrogen, made by the same producer using electrolysers powered by renewable energy, to balance out its carbon footprint.

In future, it plans to obtain green hydrogen directly into the plant through an externally run pipeline expected to be running from 2024.

Carmakers looking to reduce dependence on Russian gas have been struggling to find a solution for how to power their paint shops without it.

If the pilot burner survives the test and enough green hydrogen is available, all the burners in the paint shop - among the most energy-intensive portion of the car manufacturing line - could be converted to hydrogen, plant director Petra Peterhaensel said.

BMW already uses a fleet of hydrogen-powered trucks for logistics transport and five storage tanks on the premises.

Green hydrogen has been touted as key to decarbonising industries reliant on coal, gas and oil, but has traditionally been far more expensive to make than other forms of hydrogen - four times more so than hydrogen made from gas, BMW's own supplier told local press in March.

But soaring natural gas prices are making hydrogen produced from fossil fuels increasingly uneconomic, spurring new interest in green hydrogen.

Also on Thursday, BMW said it was adding a third battery assembly line and five cell varnishing lines to the Leipzig plant by 2024, with two more high voltage battery assembly lines to follow after that.

The carmaker assembles batteries in two further plants in Germany - Dingolfing and Regensburg - as well as its US Spartanburg site and its Shenyang plant in China.

Meanwhile, BMW production chief Milan Nedeljkovic expects stabilising supply chains to lead to a clear improvement in profitability next year, he said here.

From a production perspective, Nedeljkovic said he did not expect margins to fall.

"Repeated undersupply and needing to re-plan production brought a certain turmoil. A clear improvement in our margins should result purely from the stabilisation we are seeing on this front," he said.

The shortage of semiconductors would likely impact the carmaker until at least the middle of next year, Nedeljkovic added.


Goodyear launches Assurance TripleMax 2 tyre: Better braking promised

                KUALA LUMPUR: Goodyear Malaysia has launched the new Assurance TripleMax 2 tyre which offers better braking and handling performance, and comfort.

Priced from RM200 to RM300, the Goodyear Assurance TripleMax 2 is available in 15 to 17-inch rim sizes.

With the tagline "Stop Faster, Drive Safer", it is aimed at B and C-segment cars ranging from the Proton Saga BLM, Peugeot 208, Toyota Vios, Volkswagen Polo, Honda Civic, Honda HR-V, Toyota Sienta, Toyota Prius to the Nissan Teana.

Featuring the latest HydroTred technology, the Goodyear Assurance TripleMax 2 tyre delivers better grip and braking performance on wet roads as it uses an innovative compound formulation to increase stickiness.

It also delivers enhanced handling as the new HydroTred Technology with optimised footprint and more effective contact pressure results in better tyre cornering stiffness and steering precision.

There is also improved comfort performance due to an innovative tread pattern that is designed to minimise pattern noise throughout tyre life.

It also provides increased resistance to sidewall impacts, due to the introduction of additional technical features on the sidewall, construction design and materials.

Ben Hoge, managing director of Goodyear Malaysia, said: “In conjunction with our 120th anniversary celebration this year which is a significant milestone for Goodyear, we are also excited to announce the arrival of the Assurance TripleMax 2, designed to provide faster braking and a safer driving experience, particularly on wet roads during this heavy monsoon season, in Malaysia.”

The Assurance TripleMax 2 is now available in almost 200 Goodyear Autocare outlets.


Hope for a joyful year

                PETALING JAYA: Tell us about it. We know 2016 will be trying times for most Malaysians but let's do our best  to remain positive, save where we can and spend prudently.

Here's to pockets of optimism in the New Year.

May 2016 herald in experiences that bring hope and joy to your lives.


Oil needs to fall below US$20 to compete with green alternatives

                LONDON: Wind and solar power can produce seven times more useful energy for cars, dollar for dollar, than gasoline with oil prices near current levels, according to BNP Paribas SA.

Oil will have fall to US$9-US$10 a barrel in the long-term in order for gasoline cars to remain competitive with clean-powered electric vehicles, and to US$17-US$19 a barrel for diesel, Mark Lewis, global head of sustainability research at BNP’s asset management unit, said in a research report. US benchmark crude was trading at about US$55 in New York on Monday.

"Our analysis leads to a very stark conclusion for the oil industry: for the same capital outlay today, wind and solar energy will already produce much more useful energy for EVs than will oil purchased on the spot market,” Lewis said. "These are stunning numbers, and they suggest that the economics of renewables in tandem with EVs are set to become irresistible over the next decade.”

Lewis coined the term "energy return on capital invested” to explain the economics of road transport. It’s a measure of the money spent on oil and renewables and the differential in their net energy produced when used to provide mobility, he said.

Still, changes will take time.

"The oil industry today enjoys a massive scale advantage over wind and solar of several orders of magnitude - oil supplied 33% of global energy in 2018 compared with only 3% from wind and solar,” Lewis said.

Higher carbon prices applied in more places around the world would improve the chance of meeting the emission targets implied in the Paris climate deal struck in 2015, said Lewis.

Germany is among nations considering including carbon pricing in its transport sector, something California already does.


Protesting Tesla China buyers vow more pressure over price cuts they missed

Tesla owners unhappy with the Tesla's price cuts discuss their situation at a Tesla delivery centre in Shanghai on Tuesday. — Reuters
SHANGHAI: Dozens of Tesla owners protested at a delivery centre in Shanghai on Tuesday, vowing to raise pressure on the electric car maker after it declined to offer them rebates on price cuts the US firm made last week and that they missed out on.

Similar protests by Tesla owners have sprung up in cities including Henan, Wuxi and Hangzhou in recent days, according to owners and social media posts. Tesla has faced online backlash over previous price cuts in China before but nothing as widespread as the current spontaneous protests.

The groups protesting across China were in touch with each other and would continue to press Tesla to offer them some compensation, said Damon Yu, 29, who bought a Model Y in September.

The Shanghai facility had also been a target of a spontaneous protest on Saturday, a day after Tesla moved to slash prices for the second time in three months on its Model Y and Model 3 vehicles in China.

The latest discounts, an effort to drive sales in the world's biggest electric car market after signs last year that consumption was softening, took buyers by surprise.

"We trusted the brand so much that we cancelled our orders for other brands for Tesla," said Yu, who stayed with a group of about 25 protesters at the Tesla Shanghai facility late into Tuesday evening.

Several of the owners in Shanghai said they felt misled by Tesla sales staff who had urged them to close orders and told them that they would face higher prices in the new year.

"I haven’t been able to eat or sleep," said another owner who only identified herself by her last name, Feng. She said bought her Model 3 in December after Tesla sales staff came to her house to finalize loan documents and had pressured her to close. "I cannot accept this."

Tesla did not immediately respond to a request for comment about the accusation.

Tesla says no compensation

Owners staking out a waiting area at the centre said Tesla had told them in a group chat on Monday that they would not be compensated. The company had told Reuters on Saturday it had no plans to offer compensation.

They demanded the company reverse the decision not to offer compensation.

A third Tesla buyer, who gave his surname as Gu, said he picked up his new electric vehicle on Monday and brought his three-year-old daughter with him to camp out at the Tesla facility all day on Tuesday in an attempt to get some of his money back.

"I lost 20,000 yuan (RM12,900) in a matter of hours," he said.

Analysts have said Tesla's price cuts were almost certain to boost China sales, which tumbled in December, and force other EV makers to cut prices too. Tesla has also offered discounts in Singapore, South Korea, Japan and Australia.

As of Monday, Chinese customers were waiting longer to take delivery of some versions of the Model Y, the first sign the discounts were working to stoke demand.

The discounts were the first major move by Tesla since appointing its lead executive for Asia, Tom Zhu, to oversee global output and deliveries after the company fell short of its 2022 delivery target.

While established automakers often discount to manage inventory when demand weakens, Tesla operates without dealerships and transparent pricing has been part of its brand image.


Natural gas cars: Cheaper in the long run, pricier in the short term?

                BERLIN: Electric cars may be the rage when it comes to finding a more environmentally friendly way to drive, but one other frugal alternative has been making the rounds for years: the natural gas vehicle or NGV for short.

NGVs are comparatively environmentally friendly and are easy on your wallet when they need refuelling. Things are a little different when making the initial investment however, and NGVs come with a premium.

Depending on the price of fuel where you live, natural gas can be as much as half the price of diesel. Some governments have even added tax incentives to push drivers to switch to LPG (liquefied petroleum gas) and CNG (natural gas).

But you'll need those extra savings, because to drive a NGV, you'll have to dig much deeper into your pockets when making the initial purchase. So how do you get one more cheaply?

Depending on the model, you may be able to get a used NGV for the same price as a diesel or petrol counterpart, albeit only if the mileage is higher than 60,000km, according to specialist mag Auto Motor Sport.

The experts say you don't necessarily need to go for a brand-new model, and that it often makes sense to look for a used natural gas car where the additional cost usually disappears over time.

Factory installed or retrofitted

With natural gas cars, it's key to make the distinction between systems installed ex works and retrofitted solutions.

If a petrol or diesel car has been modded to run on natural gas, you'll want to examine it more closely, as these are known to have problems related to how the system was installed.

All work on a car gas system should only be carried out by certified specialist companies. Before buying a used car, it's also important to make sure that a specialist company has carried out the necessary modifications and maintenance, the experts say.

But all this is unnecessary if the car was designed for running on natural gas at the factory. This is generally always the case with CNG, because retrofitting is often too expensive. An LPG conversion is not cheap either and costs around 2,500 euros in Europe.

Environmentally friendly and flexible

In addition to the long-term savings, the environmental aspects and flexibility are the main arguments in favour of natural gas cars.

Natural gas burns up in a less damaging way than petrol or diesel does, and it produces up to 25 per cent less CO2 than a petrol engine. Nitrogen oxide and fine dust emissions are also lower.

And unlike on electric cars, you don't need to worry about running out of juice without somewhere to refill nearby.

If the tank is empty or there's no natural gas at the next filling station, you can simply continue on petrol, as you might with a plug-in hybrid. All you have to do is flip a switch.

However, there is usually one more or less painful disadvantage with NGVs: storage space. The load volume of the boot shrinks a little because the floor of the trunk has to be slightly higher than usual to make room for the gas tanks underneath it.


Use of 48V mild hybrid tech expanded across BMW line-up

                MUNICH: BMW is freshening up its upper-middle-class models, with 48V mild hybrid tech arriving under the bonnet of the 5 Series Sedan, the 5 Series Touring and the 6 Series Gran Turismo.

Going on sale in Europe in July, the 5 Series and 6 Series upgrades will also come with a retouched design, most noticeably a larger grille and tweaked lights, BMW has announced.

There'll also be an expanded range of equipment with new assistance and infotainment functions, including cloud-based navigation and a digital cockpit now featured as standard, the German carmaker says.

Needless to say, the most significant advancement is the 48-volt mild hybrid system, now featured in all four and six-cylinder engines.

Here, a compact electric motor is paired with a petrol or diesel engine and used to supply extra power when needed, for example when the car pulls away from a standstill or during fierce acceleration, both of which consume more fuel than cruising at regular speeds.

In this instance, BMW is using an 8-kW electric motor and a lithium-ion buffer battery to save fuel costs, give an extra boost to acceleration and also to recover more energy when braking.

According to BMW, the overall result is a faster sprint and better efficiency. For those who want to drive purely on battery, even if just for a short while, BMW says you'll be able to opt for a plug-in hybrid version of the 5 Series Touring.

Prices in BMW's European home market start at €49,100 (RM235,000) for the 5-series sedan and €51,300 (RM245,300) for the Touring estate. The coupe-like 6 Series Gran Turismo will cost upwards of €62,800 (RM300,290).

The 48-volt mild hybrid technology was first introduced in selected model variants of the 5 Series in autumn 2019. This was followed by the 3 Series models and several X models. From July and August 2020, it will be available as standard in 37 further model variants of the 3 Series, 5 Series, 6 Series and 7 Series as well as the X3, X4, X5, X6 and X7. All in all it will ensure efficiency and dynamic performance in 51 current BMW models.


Electric-powered classic Mini conversion launched in UK

                LONDON: Proving that electric vehicle (EV) conversions don’t have to cost the earth, London Electric Cars (LEC) has launched its own affordable electric-powered classic Mini, with prices starting from £25,000 (RM146,000, excluding local taxes, shipping and donor).

Not only are LEC’s conversions some of the most cost-effective in the marketplace, they are also some of the most sustainable in terms of their end-to-end vehicle lifecycle impact.

Based in the heart of London, LEC is the only electric car conversion specialist within the Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) as well as being the only EV converter based in one of the world’s largest cities.

London Electric Cars is aiming to transform the face of electric vehicle ownership and electric-powered conversions of classic cars from petrol power.

Founded in 2017, the company is on a mission to create sustainably-converted classic cars using electric power, with real-life EV mileage predictions based on real-world city driving and in-car usage, such as stereo and heater.

The base 20 kWh LEC classic Mini conversion, costing from £25,000 has a projected range of up to 112km, with owners having the ability to install a higher kWh motor and upgraded batteries to provide more range at an additional cost.

Drivers can use any Type 1 or Type 2 public charger available country-wide, rapid charging on demand, as well as use their private home wall-box systems and also charge from a domestic 13A socket should they wish.

Focusing on the full lifecycle impact of the conversion, and not just the powerplant itself, the team at LEC said it has conducted extensive research, development and independent analysis to prove that by using a pre-owned Nissan LEAF infrastructure (motor and battery cells) it is a more sustainable solution than mining and creating materials for an LEC-only powertrain.

The company also has plans to reuse and renew computer hardware and batteries inside traction packs and uses additive manufacturing technologies to assist with the production and engineering of the LEC classic Mini conversions, all conducted from its London-based workshop.


Alarming number of motorists found using their phones while on the road

                PETALING JAYA: Restrictions on mobile phone usage – even when stopped at a red light – are drilled into every Malaysian driver from driving school but in practice, many road users seem to ignore them.

A check by The Star on the Sprint Expressway found that out of 1,980 vehicles plying the road at a particular time yesterday, 42 drivers were seen talking on their phones and 83 others were either texting or reading messages.

Along Jalan Damansara, out of 2,230 vehicles that went past over the span of one hour, 51 drivers were spotted talking on their phones and 73 others seen holding them.

While some tried to be discreet, putting the phones on their laps or holding them together with the steering wheel, a majority of those spotted did not even bother to hide the fact.

In a similar check in George Town, motorists were observed fiddling with their handphones while waiting at the lights.

Some of them continued to hold their phones, and even made calls as they drove off after the light turned green.

A 30-minute check at the Jalan Magazine-Lebuh McNair traffic light junction yesterday found that from one to four drivers in the first 15 vehicles would use their phones whenever the light was red.

A total of 21 drivers of cars and lorries, as well as four motorcyclists, were seen to use their phones.

At the Jalan Ria-Jalan Magazine underpass junction, where the red light timing is longer, 20 motorists were seen using their phones over just 10 minutes.

Most of these motorists could be seen easily, except those in cars with heavily tinted windows.

On Sunday, Transport Minister Datuk Seri Liow Tiong Lai announced that there will be extra eyes on the road to monitor drivers who are glued to their smartphones.

Enforcement personnel and two types of cameras – static and mobile – would be deployed to catch errant drivers red-handed.

Drivers, however, are allowed to use navigation apps such as Waze but their phone must be mounted on a holder.

The drivers who divided their attention between the road and their phones were also seen to be a nuisance to other road users.

They would hog the road, especially the right lane, and change lanes abruptly at a fork without using their indicators.

All these had a chain effect – motorists behind them had to slam on the brakes to prevent a collision, but not everyone might respond in time.

What should have been smooth-flowing traffic became confused and momentarily congested instead.

Under Rule 17A of the Road Traffic Rules 1959, the offence of using mobile phones while driving carries a RM300 compound.

From January to October this year, the Road Transport Department (JPJ) recorded a total of 4,129 cases of motorists caught using mobile phones on the road.

This is in comparison with 4,358 cases for the whole of last year and 4,027 in 2015. In Putrajaya, Liow expressed his concern over the number of accidents caused by drivers using their phones while driving, which he said was increasing.

“We have data that shows this, and I’m concerned. “This offence will be among the 20 others to be included in the Demerit Points System (Kejara) next year,” he said.

Currently, only two traffic offences committed by drivers will be deducted from the demerit system – speeding and beating the red light.

Next year, motorists will be penalised for other offences including driving on the emergency lane, overtaking at double lines and using the phone while driving.

Liow said the enforcement was not focused on penalties but to save lives. Meanwhile, a check on Google Play Store showed a multitude of apps to help motorists deal with the phone while driving.

Some apps will know when the user is driving and put the phone on silent mode, disabling all notifications as well. They will automatically respond to calls and texts to inform the caller or sender that you are driving.

However, with one app, if the same caller tries to call three times, it is treated as an emergency call and allowed through. Other apps let users reply to messages by dictation.

READ MORE:
Most Malaysians guilty of using their phones while driving
Keep your hands off that phone
Grab keeping phone use among its drivers to a minimum


First drive of Proton Ertiga MPV ahead of launch

                PETALING JAYA: Proton is expected to launch its Ertiga as early as next week in an attempt to loosen the stranglehold by Toyota and Perodua in the compact MPV segment.

CarSifu was among the local media horde invited to test-drive the vehicle on Tuesday at Proton's test track in Shah Alam.

Initial impressions show this MPV to be well put together and has reduced NVH (noise, vibration, harshness) for a vehicle in this class.

Smaller than the Exora, the Ertiga is the fourth and final product from Proton this year to be rolled out as it grapples with slumping sales and a search for a foreign strategic partner. The national car maker had launched the new Perdana in June, Persona in August and Saga in September.

From the looks of it, the Ertiga is going up against the Perodua Alza, Toyota Avanza and Nissan Grand Livina.

The MPV will be offered as an Executive 5-speed manual, Executive 4-speed automatic and Executive Plus 4-speed automatic. The manual gearbox is sourced from Suzuki while the automatic is from Aisin.

Powering the Ertiga is a 1.4-litre Suzuki K14B engine with variable valve timing (VVT) that delivers 92hp at 6,000rpm and 130Nm of torque at 4,000 rpm.

The DOHC engine has 16 valves, metal timing chain, multi-point injection, plastic manifold and drive-by-wire technology.

The vehicle has a length of 4,265mm, width of 1,695mm, height of 1,685mm, wheelbase of 2,740mm and kerb weight of 1,175kg.

Front suspension is MacPherson struts while rear is a torsion beam-type.

An EEV

Proton said the Ertiga is its first MPV with Energy Efficient Vehicle (EEV)-status.

The Ertiga claims a fuel economy (at a constant 90kph) of 5.7-litre/100km for the manual and 6.0-litre/100km for automatic. Fuel is fed from a 45-litre tank and wheels are 15-inch alloys with a 15-inch steel spare.

It uses 185/65R15 GT Radial Champiro Eco tyres. The MPV has a relatively high clearance of 185mm, the better to traverse poorly paved roads such as many found in Indonesia.

The Ertiga also claims a 4-star Asean NCAP rating and standard equipment across the Executive and Exective Plus trim-lines are two front airbags, anti-lock braking system with electronic brakeforce distribution, ISOFIX childseat points and top tethers on second row seats.

The upcoming MPV is based on the Suzuki Ertiga with specifications that are virtually a copy of the Suzuki model except for minor changes such as Proton badging, the addition of reverse sensors and ISOfix child top tethers on second-row seats.

The Executive Plus gets additional equipment such as turn indicators on wing mirrors, front fog lamp trimming, driver seat height adjuster, audio system controls on steering wheel and metallic trimming for interior door release latches.

The "tiga" in Ertiga is meant to hint at the fact this is a three-row vehicle but legally allows only six persons instead of seven (Suzuki markets the Ertiga as a 7-seater in Indonesia). In other words, each row offers seating for two.

Although the second row is a bench seat, the original centre lap-type seatbelt has been removed as this sort of seat belt is already banned in most countries.

To qualify for seven-seater classification, the second row's centre lap-type seatbelt must be converted to the three-point-type which would require the re-engineering of the second row seats, which Proton may consider doing later. Meanwhile, the second row has a centre armrest for better passenger comfort.

First drive

We had a few hours with the B-segment MPV on the Proton test track and it proved revealing. Although it's known as a Proton model, the Ertiga is technically a Suzuki with little input from Proton - at least for now - so we are in fact giving you an impression of a Suzuki MPV.

We drove the Executive Plus and the manual versions.

 This Ertiga from Suzuki was spotted in Indonesia when CarSifu was there in 2015.

The teaser images you see here are the only visuals Proton would allow the media to publish for now. But it leaves little to the imagination since it is the spitting image of the Suzuki Ertiga sold in Indonesia. Even the Ertiga name has been retained because, says Proton, it's an established badge and online search by anyone would easily turn up the Proton version as well.

The 3-speed 4-vent ceiling mounted air-cond blowers in mid-row, ala Toyota Avanza style, was strong. Third-row passengers could even feel the cold air from the blowers.

While entry and exit from first and second rows were easy, such maneouvres in third row were more challenging even though second row could be slid forward by up to 240mm.

The engine felt smooth and responsive and doesn't get thrashy until the rev needle passes 5000rpm. Pickup was good even with 4 persons on board. Upshifts were smooth and switchgear have a quality feel about them.

There's some steering feedback but the MPV has a tendency to understeer in sharp corners at high speeds. So just go easy on the accelerator in bends.

We managed to hustle the MPV up to 150kph in the straights and it didn't feel floaty.

The suspension did a good job at absorbing the bumps and potholes. Suspension is on the firm side and we reckoned this is necessary to be able to hold up a full load of 6 passengers.

When winding the MPV through a slalom course at speed, it tracked predictably for a high vehicle. We did a sudden braking and lane change and the MPV wasn't flustered, executing it with poise and confidence.

In the manual Ertiga, the gear changes were smooth and the clutch pedal was not too heavy to step on so your left leg won't feel tired if you are caught in a traffic jam.

Real-world sprint time from 0-100kph would not be surprising at 13s to 14s.

The Proton Ertiga is assembled at Proton's plant in Tanjung Malim, with key components imported from Indonesia.

The MPV is expected to be competitively priced against existing Malaysian and Japanese rivals, with pricing to be announced at launch.


Renew licence and road tax before Aug 31 deadline, motorists told

People queuing up at a Road and Transport Department branch in Bandar Baru Bangi, where only 20 are allowed in at a time, in line with Covid-19 preventive measures. — AZHAR MAHFOF/The Star
PETALING JAYA: Malaysians have less than two weeks to renew their expired road tax and driving licence before the Aug 31 deadline after an abeyance for renewals was granted during the movement control order (MCO) period.

Road Transport Department (JPJ) director-general Datuk Seri Shaharuddin Khalid assured the public that future changes would not be made abruptly.

“The public will be notified beforehand if there are any changes in the policy on driving licence and road tax renewal exemptions with regard to the MCO.

“We will give sufficient time and changes will not be made all of a sudden, ” he said.

Pending announcements, he advised motorists to obey rules and regulations on the road as well as the Health Ministry’s standard operating procedure (SOP) in public places.

Previously, Shaharuddin revealed that since March 18 and up to June 14, a total of 2,119,653 road tax documents and 2,184,508 driving licences were yet to be renewed.

In June, he urged those whose road tax and driving licence had expired to renew their documents.

“This is because enforcement will resume once the recovery MCO ends and if there is no further extension, ” he said.

“There are 855 JPJ counters nationwide, open seven days a week to allow people to renew their driving licence and road tax.”

He said the public would also be able to renew their road tax online via mySikap and get it delivered to their homes by Pos Malaysia beginning July 1.

In George Town, the public have been advised to renew their driving licence and road tax before Aug 31.

With the deadline coming to an end, the public should not be driving around with expired papers, said Penang Traffic Enforcement and Investigation Department chief Supt Wan Sharuddin Wan Omar.

“We will not allow driving with expired licences after the deadline.

“After Aug 31, enforcement will resume as normal. We will continue to enforce road traffic rules frequently.

“However, it depends on instructions from the government whether we will take stricter action in enforcement or conduct it in a diplomatic way, ” he said in a phone interview yesterday.

Bank employee Jayden Lim, 29, admitted that he had been putting off renewing his driving licence as he was busy with work.

“My driving licence expired in April during the MCO period.

“For the safety of myself and other road users, I should renew my licence as soon as possible.

“Now that the MCO is relaxed, I will get it done before Aug 31 as I do not want to take any chances of being fined.

“To be honest, I feel unsafe and nervous driving with an expired licence, ” he said.

Tan Sophine, 26, hoped motorists would be responsible and renew their driving licence as soon as possible to ensure their safety and that of other road users.

“It is dangerous driving around without a valid driving licence and it will be troublesome when accidents happen.

“People should take some time out of their schedules to renew their driving licence and road tax and there are many places that they can go to perform the task.

“I was told we can renew at urban transformation centres, eServices kiosk and Pos Malaysia outlets. I recently renewed my licence at the post office and it did not take me a long time, ” she said.


Ferrari to churn out gas guzzlers on its slow road to electric

                MARANELLO: Ferrari makes some of the fastest cars on the road, but the luxury Italian automaker is taking the slow lane to an electric future as it tries to overcome the technology's disadvantages against today's powerful fossil fuel engines.

At an investor day this month, executives promised a new era, with the first fully electric Ferrari in 2025.

But for now, combustion engines remain the noisy heart of what it does. Unlike some rivals, Ferrari has not provided a roadmap for going all electric.

Volkswagen's Bentley brand and Volvo are both targeting 2030.

According to a source familiar with Ferrari's business plans, a new production line focused on electric vehicles (EVs) should help lift annual production at its plant in Maranello, Italy, by more than 35% to over 15,000 cars by 2025 versus 11,155 in 2021 - or 65 cars per day versus 46 currently - delivering higher profit margins in the process.
Ferrari declined to comment.

The carmaker has told investors it is targeting a core profit (EBITDA) margin of 38-40% in 2026, versus 35.9% in 2021.

Its line-up could also grow to at least 17 models by 2026 from 12 today.

But most new models will, at least initially, have a combustion engine - including its first SUV, the Purosangue, powered by its trademark huge 12-cylinder engine - though some may be hybrids.

Ferrari currently has four plug-in hybrids in its line-up.

A zero-emission future poses the same challenges for Ferrari as it does for rivals - EV batteries weigh hundreds of kilograms, which affects aerodynamics and handling, and can't match the sustained power and throaty roar of a massive combustion engine.

To solve those expensive challenges, Ferrari is researching solid state batteries, which could theoretically improve battery power, as well as hydrogen fuel cells and synthetic fuels, both of which face an uncertain future.

European Union countries agreed this week to an effective ban on new fossil-fuel car sales, but will assess in 2026 whether hybrid vehicles and synthetic, or CO2-neutral, fuels could comply with that goal.

"In every case where you have a technology transition, by definition you have a situation which is a little bit fuzzy, there is some fog," Ferrari CEO Benedetto Vigna, a technology industry veteran who took over in September, told Reuters.

Jefferies analyst Philippe Houchois describes Ferrari's approach as "measured", but adds that may not be popular with investors as some automakers charge towards an electric future.

"They can run their profit centre with combustion engines longer and amortise their investment there," he said.

"But it's not necessarily what the market wants to hear because the mindset is let's rush into EVs and never look back."

An electric marriage?

Every 22 minutes on the V8 assembly line at Maranello a finished engine and chassis come together, which Ferrari calls a "marriage."

For an undisclosed sum, the engine with a V12 model includes a plate bearing the name of the worker who made it.

Ferrari executives highlight the emotion some drivers feel when they buy one of their cars, that start at over 200,000 euros ($212,000).

"I see customers coming to take their cars and some of them are crying," said Vigna.

So it's crucial for Ferrari to create a similarly passionate response to its EVs.

Hybrid sports cars have been a success, pairing powerful engines with the instant acceleration of an electric motor.

But fully-electric sports cars currently have a weight problem because of the huge batteries needed to provide enough power.

Croat hypercar maker Rimac's Nevera, for instance, weighs 2,200kg, more than fossil-fuel sports cars and heavier even than Ford Transit and Mercedes Sprinter vans.

That enormous weight "in turn affects performance, driving dynamics and experience", said Dario Duse, managing director at consultancy firm AlixPartners.

Ferrari is not alone in facing these challenges, and few ultra-luxury rivals are rushing to go electric.

Lamborghini, for instance, doesn't plan a fully-electric car until the end of the decade.

But, according to AlixPartners' Duse, Ferrari must weigh its options more carefully than Lamborghini, which has a deep-pocketed owner in world No.2 carmaker Volkswagen (VW).

"For Ferrari, which unlike Lamborghini does not have access to a development platform like that of VW, the issue of investments is also certainly relevant," Duse said.

Hydrogen to the rescue?

Among its options, Ferrari is researching hydrogen fuel cells, a future zero-emission solution touted by Japan's carmakers and the likes of BMW in Europe that can match the sustained power of combustion engines.

British startup Viritech is already building a hydrogen hypercar, with input from Italian auto design house Pininfarina , a limited-edition vehicle weighing 1,000kg that it aims to use to sell the technology to carmakers.

CEO Timothy Lyons says over the last 18 months Viritech has seen a "huge spike in interest" from conventional carmakers in the concept.

But hydrogen fuel cell cars need infrastructure for producing "green" hydrogen using renewable energy and fuelling stations, which are unlikely to be in place until the 2030s.

Vigna said Ferrari is also working with four partners in Europe and Asia on battery components to research the next generation of high energy density solid state batteries, which are lighter than today's cells.

Carmakers such as Ford and BMW have invested in solid state batteries, but the technology is still some years away from use in cars.

"Solid state batteries are turning into a bit like the hydrogen story in that it's a fuel of the future," Jefferies Houchois said.

He warned Ferrari's slow pace of change could be seen as dragging its feet, or even "socially wrong".

"But from a business standpoint, they've got a great business and it doesn't have to go away that quickly," he added.

"They're avoiding excessive commitments that they can get to a certain point by a certain date at a certain price because they don't know."


First drive: Believe it, CKD Proton X70 gets more kit and costs less

                With over 29,000 units delivered in 2019 alone, Proton's star performing X70 sport utility vehicle (SUV) is re-emerging as a locally-assembled (CKD) unit and it's been given a few more goodies to go along with its long list of features.

Exactly a week before its official launch, members of Malaysia's motoring fraternity were given a chance to drive a few pre-production X70 Premium SUVs to Kuantan overnight.

To set it apart from the previous CBU X70, Proton has fitted the CKD X70 with a new logo in front. The Flame Red body colour was renamed as Ruby Red and Space Grey is a new colour option.

Proton has also revised the X70's lineup by dropping the all-wheel-drive system in the mid-range Executive which means all variants are now front-wheel driven.

Everything else is pretty much status quo until you decide to pop the hood or raise the tailgate.

Under the hood, the local carmaker has decided to use a blacked-out engine cover for the powerplant which now gets a seven-speed wet dual-clutch transmission (DCT) that replaces the previous six-speed automatic gearbox. This lightens the vehicle a bit and frees up some horsepower.

READ MORE:
CKD Proton X70: 4 versions from RM94,800 to RM122,800
Watch CKD Proton X70 launch live

The 1.8-litre (1,799cc) turbocharged engine still makes 181hp at 5,500rpm but torque gets bumped up from 285Nm to 300Nm,  a mere 5% gain in torque.

But any performance gain is highly welcomed considering this SUV is a hefty mid-sizer that weighs in excess of 1,700kg (kerb) - yet manages to remain "light" in terms of pricing (starts from just under RM100,000).

At the rear, the tailgate is now powered and has the added convenience of hands-free function. Standing too close or right next to the tailgate with the key FOB and wiggling a foot under the rear bumper will do nothing but raise frustration levels so take a step back and repeat the process with a second or two of patience and everything will be dandy.

Inside, the cabin sees no changes except for a newly designed gear knob and the inclusion of front ventilated seats.

There isn't a dedicated button for this due to the lack of any available blank switch covers but instead will require the user to go into the infotainment system and access a dedicated HVAC (Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning) app to activate it.

Also, the rear bench's 60:40 backrests can now be reclined for some added comfort and if the range-topping Premium X variant is opted for, a panoramic sunroof is included.

To reiterate, the X70 is now only available as a front-wheel driven SUV and it's offered in four variants starting with the Standard that's newly priced on-the-road without insurance at RM94,800 (-RM5,000) and is followed by the Executive at RM106,800 (-RM3,000), Premium at RM119,800 (-RM4,000) and Premium X at RM122,800 (-RM1,000).

Highway driving was as smooth as that in the CBU unit. However, gearshifts were notably faster and lacked anything abrupt even in Sport mode thanks to the wet DCT.

The added 15Nm of torque isn't noticeable, but thankfully the X70's lethargic acceleration hasn't regressed any further than this.

This could point to the fact that while the DCT did provide some significant weight savings,  the added kit may have somewhat neutralised the light-weighting effort.

While the X70 won't be winning drag races any time soon, it makes up for it in terms of a planted feel when carving up corners and cruising along highways.

Braking was on point with a good amount of confidence provided should the need to bleed speed quickly arise.

We did try out the Advance Driver Assistance System (ADAS) before reaching Kuantan and was delighted with its abilities to prevent collisions.

However, it must be noted that it is still fallible and will require a drivers' attention at all times especially when the sun is pointed directly at the vehicle or during extremely heavy downpours that will interfere with the camera's detection abilities.

Additionally, going through the slalom, the X70 is able to remain calm and collected when being manhandled through the turns but does have an inherent lack of feel, probably due to the high profile tyres.

Kudos goes to Proton for tuning the X70's suspension in which pitch and roll have been diminished from the Geely Boyue. Average daily drivers may still find it alarming from such, but the X70 will still deliver a somewhat neutral feel when going through the turns.

For what it's worth, Proton has up the ante with the latest X70, which is even more attractive than before. It's ratcheting up the pressure on rivals, which ultimately is good for consumers.


New ruling on tinted windows for vehicles to be announced tomorrow

                KUALA LUMPUR: The new ruling on tinted windows for vehicles will be announced on Tuesday after a meeting with the Road Transport Department (JPJ), says Transport Minister Anthony Loke.

“Yes, we have had talks with JPJ, and I will announce the new ruling tomorrow at a press conference,” he said after his interview on The Nation talk show produced by the Bernama News Channel here.

Last November, Loke had announced that there will be a new policy on tinted windows for vehicles after the media reported that guidelines had been changed several times by the previous government.

READ MORE:  This is the story you have been waiting for

Loke said anyone seeking exemption from the new ruling must obtain authorisation from the JPJ director-general, where additional charges will be imposed.

“The exemption has to be on grounds of either health or safety.

“I must clarify that the extra charges are only for those seeking an exemption, and not for everyone,” he added.


US insists 'quiet cars' make some noise

                WASHINGTON, D.C.: The US government on Monday finalised long-delayed rules that will require "quiet cars" like electric vehicles and hybrids to emit alert sounds when they are moving at speeds of up to 30kph to help prevent injuries among pedestrians, cyclists and the blind.

The rules, which were required by Congress, will require automakers like Tesla Motors Inc Nissan Motor Co and Toyota Motor Corp to add the sounds to all vehicles by September 2019. The US Transportation Department said it expects the rules would prevent 2,400 injuries a year by 2020 and require the addition of alert sounds to about 530,000 2020 model vehicles.

The US National Highway Transportation Department said the rules will cost the auto industry about US$39 million annually because automakers will need to add an external waterproof speaker to comply. But the benefits of the reduced injuries are estimated at US$250 million to US$320 million annually.

NHTSA estimates the odds of a hybrid vehicle being involved in a pedestrian crash are 19 percent higher compared with a traditional gas-powered vehicle. About 125,000 pedestrians and bicyclists are injured annually.

The rules will also help the blind and visually impaired.

"This is a common-sense tool to help pedestrians, especially folks who are blind or have low vision, make their way safely,” said NHTSA Administrator Dr Mark Rosekind in a statement.

The rules apply to hybrid and electric cars, SUVs, trucks and buses weighing up to 10,000 pounds and seek to prevent crashes at intersections or when electric vehicles are backing up.

NHTSA originally proposed extending the sound requirements to all vehicles, including motorcycles and larger trucks and buses.

At higher speeds, the alert is not required because other factors like tyre and wind noise adequately warn pedestrians, NHTSA said.

Advocates for blind people have pushed for the rules and praised the announcement.

Automakers had raised concerns about the alerts, saying they are too loud and complicated. The rules set minimum sound requirements but do not specify what sounds must be emitted.

The Alliance of Automobile Manufacturers, a trade group, said in a statement "it’s important that automakers have the flexibility to equip vehicles with sounds that are sufficiently detectable yet pleasant to hear; consumer acceptance is critical and that hinges on sounds not annoying people inside the auto."

Under a 2010 law passed by Congress, NHTSA was supposed to finalise the regulations by January 2014, but the rules were subjected to a lengthy White House review.

The Trump administration could opt to review the rules once it takes office.


Audi in Malaysia introduces #AudiOnTheMove aftersales campaign

                KUALA LUMPUR: PHS Automotive Malaysia (PHSAM) has launched the #AudiOnTheMove aftersales campaign, to ensure that Audi owners enjoy a worry-free driving experience this upcoming holiday season.

The #AudiOnTheMove campaign offers benefits from two programmes - the Audi Repair Package for vehicles six years and older, and Audi Plus for vehicles five years and older.

The Audi Repair Package now offers a 30% discount on several parts including the brake, absorbers and bearing sets, and timing belt.

Meanwhile, Audi Plus offers customers 10% off on the next three service maintenance package.

This offer is valid within the period of three years upon signing up.

Customers will also receive nationwide support from Audi’s Roadside Assistance for up to 12 months from the date of voucher redemption.

Additionally, from April 1 to June 30, Audi owners who spend RM800 on any of the packages above will stand a chance to win exclusive Audi merchandise.

In conjunction with the upcoming Hari Raya celebrations, Audi Malaysia is offering a complimentary vehicle inspection to owners, and should there be any repair work needed, owners can rest assured that only genuine parts will be used.

The campaign is also open to any Audi vehicle purchased through parallel imports which must first undergo an Audi Condition Check (ACC) to ascertain its serviceability.

PHSAM managing director Erik Winter said the company hoped to encourage owners with Audi vehicles that are 5 years and older to prioritise maintenance of their vehicles through the #AudiOnTheMove campaign.

“We understand that having your car serviced can be costly and time-consuming, so we want to make it easier for our
customers, especially during the upcoming festive celebration” said Winter.

More information on the #AudiOnTheMove campaign is available at www.audi.com.my or contact an Audi Centre to book an appointment.


Audi squeezes more performance from RS Q3

INGOLSTADT: The smallest SUV in Audi's growing range is now also one of the fastest on the road.

The Q3 already comes in a very sporty RS guise but Audi's engineers have decided that that car's 2.5-litre, five-cylinder engine hasn't been living up to its full potential.

By adding a new fuel pump and radiator, they've found an extra 27hp, bringing total output up to a remarkable 367hp. More impressive still is that when this power is fed through a recalibrated seven-speed S tronic transmission to all four wheels it results in a 0-100kph time of 4.4 seconds. That's faster than a Porsche 911 Carrera.

And the car's not just quick off the mark, it can go on to a top speed of 270kph while other sporty Audis are electronically limited to 250kph, and, thanks to equally impressive suspension (the car sits 20mm lower than a standard Q3), it shouldn't rock and roll in the bends, either.

RS sport suspension plus with damper control is also available as an option and that will let owners push the car's parameters further still or set everything up for ultimate comfort on those days when the whole family's traveling together.

As well as a phenomenal turn of speed, the Performance model differentiates itself from the RS Q3 with unique 20-inch alloy wheels, matte titanium-look detailing around the grille and windows and the option of Ascari Blue as an exterior paint finish. LED front and rear running lights are also standard kit.

Inside, the seats are finished in leather and Alcantara and the dials and gauges get the sports treatment with white faces and red needles.

The RS Q3 Performance will make its debut at the Geneva Motor Show in March but is available to order in Europe from Monday.


Chevrolet takes wraps off Lego Batmobile

                DETROIT: Chevrolet has unveiled a life-size Lego Batmobile at the North American International Auto Show.

Measuring 5.2m long and featuring exclusive stud shooters, the Lego Batmobile from Chevrolet was designed to strike fear in the heart of any villain. The vehicle was inspired by Batman’s Speedwagon featured in “The Lego Batman Movie,” which hits US theaters on Feb 10.

In this animated Lego adventure, Batman, DC’s iconic Super Hero who famously prefers to work alone, must learn to cooperate and connect with others to save Gotham City from The Joker.

“To work on the Lego Batmobile with Warner Bros. is an absolute thrill for us at Chevy,” said Paul Edwards, US vice president of Chevrolet Marketing. “Many of the themes in ‘The Lego Batman Movie,’ like imagination, family and community, align perfectly with our Chevy brand values and add to the value of the partnership.”

The Lego Batmobile from Chevrolet will also appear in the next variation of Chevrolet’s “Real People, Not Actors” campaign. In the new spot, real Lego Minifigure figurines discuss what kind of person would drive the Lego Batmobile.

Chevrolet unveiled the exhibit along with students from Detroit’s Cody Rouge community, A World in Motion and FIRST LEGO League.


New materials create safer, quieter EVs

                HOUSTON: Ascend Performance Materials has developed two materials for electric vehicles that improve safety and passenger comfort.

The company's Starflam X-Protect and Vydyne AVS tackle two unique challenges automakers face when developing their EV platforms.

Starflam X-Protect is an industry-leading flame-retardant nylon 66 that withstands exposure to 1,100°C direct flame for 15 minutes, surpassing standard flame-retardant materials and aluminum tested in accordance with SAE AS5127 (a test originally designed for aerospace applications).

"Safety remains one of the primary concerns for people considering an EV," said Ian van Duijvenboode, Ascend's senior director for e-mobility. "Despite being relatively rare, critical battery failure and thermal runaway can occur and X-Protect was designed to keep people safe even in extreme circumstances."

Ascend's team of e-mobility application development engineers and polymer scientists have also created a novel solution to dampen noise, vibration and harshness in EVs, which produce vibrations at 10 times the frequency of internal combustion engine vehicles.

Vydyne AVS is a new engineered material effective at damping high-frequency vibrations from noise sources like motors and compressors, which translates into an 80% reduction in cabin sound pressure.

One of the applications where Vydyne AVS is being used is in the Cadillac LYRIQ, which has been dubbed "crypt-quiet" and "the quietest car I can remember driving" by the press.

The LYRIQ sports an electric AC compressor mounting bracket made of Vydyne AVS, which effectively helps damp that component's vibrations at the source while also providing structural support.

"Vydyne AVS is the result of years of engineering development combined with our unique ability to tailor the polymerisation process to target specific attributes," said Dr Steve Manning, Ascend's senior director for engineered materials.


Perodua boots up Bezza

                PETALING JAYA: By next Thursday, this Axia facing the main entrance of Perodua Sentral here will give way to the car maker's much anticipated sedan we now know as Bezza.

There's a huge demand for a Perodua with a bigger boot and we reckon the Axia will soon relinquish its position as the company's bestseller to the newcomer and new star.

READ MORE: Perodua Bezza sedan open for bookings from July 16

When we visited Perodua's flagship showroom earlier today, some of the sales people said the company was taking pre-orders ahead of Bezza's launch next week. We were informed that the boot, at 508 litres, is bigger than that of the Toyota Vios (506l) but smaller than the one in the Honda City (536l). It's also not that far off from the boot space of the Mercedes E-Class, which is 530l, and is truly impressive.


McLaren's great white shark - the ferocious new 720S

                LONDON: Seven years after McLaren returned to making road cars, the British firm has unveiled the new 720S, its latest lightweight Ferrari-baiter.

This is a ferocious supercar with a 710hp, twin-turbocharged 4.0-litre V8 engine powering the rear wheels through a seven-speed automatic box.

The contours of the gull-wing 720S are distinctly McLaren and the company says its design was inspired by the great white shark.

"A beautifully sleek yet brutally efficient hunting machine" is how the company describes its automotive creation.

The 720S is a replacement for the 650S, which it outperforms on the tarmac: The new car bounds from a standstill to 100 kilometres per hour in 2.9 seconds and will charge ahead until 341 km/h is reached. The top speed is only legal on the limitless stretches of Germany's motorway network.

Another feature adopted from the 65OS is a kind of "Jekyll and Hyde" switch which allows the driver to alter the car's character by turning a dial.

Various modes are offered, including Drift for sliding around the turns under power through to Comfort, Sport and Track settings. A touchscreen infotainment system is standard and the digital gauge cluster vanishes in the dashboard when Track mode is engaged.

The coupe version of the 720S goes on sale this year, with an open-top spyder model in the pipeline for 2018.

The new McLaren aims to be sporting and practical at the same time, which means it is now easier to clamber inside. The doors now open wider and the sills are thinner. The narrower A-pillars mean visibility is now much improved.

Buyers can expect to pay around US$285,000 (RM1.2mil) for the base model of the 720S and orders for 1,400 examples have already been received. This is more than the factory can fabricate in the course of 2017, so many customers will have to be patient.


Social media hashtag study highlights uphill struggle against distracted driving

                DETROIT: Americans aren't just multi-tasking at work and home; a new analysis shows they're also doing double duty while driving.

The top five social media hashtags used in tandem with #whiledriving included clouds, sunset, sky, nature and sun, strongly suggesting that people are snapping pictures of beautiful scenery and posting them to social media, while at the same time operating their vehicles.

The hashtag analysis also found that men were more likely to be distracted than women, with 55 percent of #whiledriving posts coming from men, and 45 percent from women.

US insurer Erie Insurance analysed social media data to coincide with Distracted Driving Awareness Month and gain insight into what drivers are doing behind the wheel.

The company analysed Twitter and Instagram posts that came from mobile devices and used the popular hashtag #whiledriving.  It reviewed 90 days of social media tracking data bought from the analytics firm Keyhole. The data collected were from iPhones, iPads and Androids that had their location services turned on.

"Drivers should be keeping their hands on the wheel, their eyes on the road, and their attention on driving but, based on our analysis of the 'while driving' hashtag, many appear instead to be gazing off into the sunset, often times snapping and sharing photos—clearly an unsafe situation," said Doug Smith, Erie Insurance senior vice president of Personal Lines.

Smith said that the behaviour suggested by the hashtag analysis show some parallels with the insurer's prior  study of police data that found daydreaming to be the driving distraction most associated with fatal car crashes.

The US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration found that 3,179 people were killed and 431,000 were injured in motor vehicle crashes involving distracted drivers in 2014 alone.

"The statistics about the dangers of distracted driving are alarming," said Smith. "So while it's understandable to want to share a picturesque sky with your social media followers—imagine if it were the last one. It's just not worth it. We hope our analysis helps drive that point home."

Perhaps not surprisingly, California led the top US states with the most posts using #whiledriving followed by Florida and Texas.