All-new Perodua Alza teased and open for pre-launch booking from RM62,000

                RAWANG: With a week left to go before the 5% sales tax exemption for passenger cars expires at the end of the month, Perodua is hopeful of catching the final buying rush by opening pre-launch order taking for its all-new Alza multi-purpose vehicle (MPV).

The new seven-seater, available in three variants of X, H and AV, is tentatively priced between RM62,000 and RM75,000 in Peninsular Malaysia, without insurance and pre-sales tax.
Perodua has released a 15-second teaser video where viewers can get to see close-up of certain parts of the MPV.

The company has also released a brochure which detailed the MPV's specifications as well as key features.

The new MPV will be powered by a 1.5-litre dual VVT-i engine paired to a D-CVT, promising a frugal fuel consumption of 22km per litre of fuel and an energy efficient vehicle tag.

It will also get a luggage capacity of 137 litres that can be increased to 498 litres if the third row seats are folded.

The latest features for a Perodua model include a 360⁰ Panoramic View, Electronic Parking Brake with Auto Brake Hold, rear disc brakes and a new Drive Mode selection of Normal, Eco and Power.

Also included is the Perodua Smart Drive Assist (PSDA) suite, which consists of Advance Safety Assist (ASA), Driver Assist, Parking Assist and Headlamp Assist.

The top-of-the-line AV variant comes with Active Cruise Control, blindspot monitor and two-tone semi-leather seats.

Among the standard safety features across the line-up are Advanced Safety Assist (ASA), six airbags, Lane Departure Warning, Lane Departure Prevention, ABS with EBD, vehicle stability control (VSC) with brake assist and rear parking sensors.

The ASA consists of Pre-collision Warning, Pre-Collision Assist Brake (for vehicles and pedestrian), Mis-pedal Operational Control and Front Departure Alert.

As extra bonuses, all variants will be equipped with “Leaving Home” Headlamp Assist and Hill-start Assist functions.

For the X and AV variants, they will also come with 7-inch TFT multi-info display, 9-inch display audio, sequential turn signals, electric auto retractable wing mirrors, rear cross traffic alert, reverse camera, adaptive driving beam and front corner sensors.

The five available colours are Ivory White, Glittering Silver, Garnet Red, Elegant Black (new) and Vintage Brown (new).

Perodua president and chief executive officer Datuk Zainal Abidin Ahmad said the company took time designing the full model change to fulfill the improvements requested by customers.

“One of the many requests was a better driving experience, and to this we have engineered the new Alza’s ground clearance to be at 160mm which, in our assessment, is the best height for a pleasant Malaysian drive, for an MPV,” he said.

Zainal said that the model has bigger space compared with its predecessor, especially at the third row as well as a rear air-conditioning unit.

“Above and beyond that, the new Perodua Alza’s fuel efficiency has also been improved with up to potentially 22km per litre, which is among the best in its MPV class,” he said.

Customers are welcomed to visit any of Perodua’s 188 sales showrooms nationwide or visit its official website for more information.


Two BMW M cars poised to make world debut at Detroit show

                MUNICH: BMW will be hitting the Detroit auto stand with an M focus, with the M2 and X4 M40i  making their world debuts at the show on Jan 11.

Also on display are other models already revealed at other motor shows earlier namely the X1, 7 Series, the 330e plug-in hybrid, i8 and i3.

Details of the M cars had already been revealed months earlier.

The M2 features a newly developed M TwinPower Turbo technology 3-litre, 6-cylinder engine that produces 365bhp and 465Nm of torque.

With the optional M Double Clutch Transmission (M DCT) in place and Launch Control activated, the new M2 completes the sprint from a standstill to 100kph in a scant 4.3 seconds (4.4 s with the six-speed manual gearbox). The top speed of the car is electronically limited to 250kph.

A modified oil sump ensures oil reaches all engine components at all times under limit-pushing driving with sustained heavy lateral acceleration, and extreme braking maneuvers the car has to withstand on the race track.

The same also applies to the heat balance of all engine components. In order to deal with extreme cooling requirements under hard driving, the M2 engine gets an additional oil cooler for the transmission oil (only applies to cars fitted with M DCT) and an extra water radiator for the engine.

The newly developed M Performance TwinPower Turbo inline 6 cylinder gasoline engine for the new X4 M40i combines high performance with high fuel economy. Accordingly, the lightweight, thermodynamically optimized aluminium engine has been constructed with a closed-deck design. In this type of construction, the water jacket surrounding the cylinders is sealed at the top, which endows the crankcase with an exceptionally high degree of stiffness.

This engine delivers 355bhp at between 5,800 and 6,000 rpm from its three-litre displacement, providing a maximum torque of 465Nm. The X4 M40i delivers best-in-class acceleration, running the sprint from 0-100kph in just 4.7 seconds.

The 8-speed STEPTRONIC sports transmission, fitted as standard in the X4 M40i, comes with Launch Control. With this easy-to-use system, an ambitious driver is able to optimally accelerate his X4 M40i under all conditions. For a decidedly sporty driving style, the 8-speed Steptronic sports transmission can also be controlled via paddle shifters mounted on the steering wheel.

The specially tuned sports chassis of the new X4 M40i provides excellent driving dynamics at an advanced level with stronger springs and stabilizers, increased camber on the front axle, and adaptive dampers specifically tuned to M Performance specifications. Like all of the X4 models, the  X4 M40i is fitted with intelligent xDrive all-wheel drive.  With Performance Control as standard, the system regulates the variable distribution of drive torque between the two rear wheels. These systems help to achieve a unique level of dynamics, agility and traction.

The X4 M40i's M engine makes 355hp and 465Nm of torque, with the newly developed M Performance TwinPower Turbo technology inline 6-cylinder engine will also be making its world debut. Reaching an electronically limited top speed of 241kph, the X4 M40i promises best-in-class acceleration, traveling from 0-100kph in just 4.7 seconds.

Design and technology are also at their peak in the X4 M40i and include a powerful yet efficient exterior chassis tuned to M Performance specifications, BMW ConnectedDrive, intelligent xDrive and TwinScroll turbo technology.


Ford GT is the fastest ever

                DEARBORN, Michigan: The Ford GT bested both the McLaren 675LT and Ferrari 458 Speciale at Calabogie Motorsports Park in Canada, in 2016 development testing, with all contenders track-prepped with new fluids, fresh tyres and optimal suspension settings, in identical conditions and with the same driver behind the wheel .

The numbers speak for themselves:

Ford GT: 2:09.8
McLaren 675LT: 2:10.8
Ferrari 458 Speciale: 2:12.9

Delivering the highest output of any EcoBoost production engine to date, the all-new Ford GT achieves a maximum speed of 348kph – making it the fastest Ford production vehicle on the track ever.

SAE-rated at 647hp and with 746Nm of torque, Ford’s new high-output 3.5-liter V6 powerplant produces the most horsepower of any EcoBoost production engine ever, making Ford GT the fastest production car ever to wear the Blue Oval badge.

The engine’s wide powerband produces 90 percent of its peak torque from 3,500rpm.

 Like the glass cockpit in airplanes and race cars, the all-new Ford GT features an all-digital instrument display in the car’s dashboard that quickly and easily presents information to the driver, based on five special driving modes.

“We tested and developed this powertrain through the Daytona Prototype race car that ran in IMSA for two seasons, last season racing with Ford GT," said Dave Pericak, global director, Ford Performance.

Ford GT’s dry weight just tops 1,361kg which places the supercar between its two primary competitors, the McLaren 675LT and Ferrari 488.

Ford GT’s power-to-weight ratio is 2.14kg/horsepower.

“The Ford GT is all about performance,” said Raj Nair, Ford executive vice president, global product development and chief technical officer.

“We achieved considerable weight savings with the carbon fiber architecture. We then reinvested some of that savings into where it counts most – performance, specifically, the active dynamics. The result is an even faster car.”

Ford GT, with no excuses to give, has proven itself time and again, racing to class wins at Le Mans and numerous other tracks in both IMSA and WEC last season.

The production Ford GT shares a great deal with the high-performance track version, with advanced aero and suspension features added that take it to another level.


Ambulance and 4WD stopped to give way to PM's convoy for safety reasons, say police

                PETALING JAYA: Selangor police say it was for safety reasons that a four-wheel drive (4WD) and an ambulance were forced to stop at a junction to give way to the Prime Minister’s convoy, as seen in a recent viral video.

Selangor Traffic Investigation and Enforcement Department chief Supt Azman Shari’at said the policemen on duty made the decision after determining that there was a collision risk.

The incident, which took place at around 11.30am on Sunday, saw the Prime Minister’s convoy heading towards Masjid Al-Mustaqqim, Batu 16 in Hulu Langat.

“The convoy, escorted by traffic police, had earlier visited Taman Sri Nanding in Hulu Langat as the prime minister wanted to see for himself the clean-up works and aid distribution to flood victims handled by the relevant agencies.

“During the situation shown in the video, traffic police decided to stop the other vehicles, including a Malaysian Red Crescent Society four-wheel drive and an ambulance, from exiting the intersection in order to prevent the lead vehicle of the convoy from colliding with oncoming traffic.

“The decision was made after assessing that the distance of the lead vehicle was close to the intersection.

"The action was in accordance with the provisions under Traffic Rule No. 9 LN 166/1959 of the Road Transport Act 1987,” Supt Azman said in a statement today.

He added that if the MRCS 4WD, ambulance and other vehicles had been allowed to exit the intersection into the main road, it would have endangered all the road users there.

“As soon as the convoy passed, traffic police immediately gave way to the ambulance and 4WD to pass through.

“This was done after ensuring that it was safe for them (to proceed),” he added.

Supt Azman also said traffic police have been instructed to always prioritise emergency vehicles such as those carrying patients, and those on duty at junctions would have to make an early assessment of the traffic situation before taking any action.

The short video clip of the 4WD, ambulance and other vehicles being held up at the intersection made the rounds on social media on Sunday.

In the video, policemen could be seen stopping traffic at the intersection to give way to several other vehicles, including a Proton Perdana and several Toyota Vellfires carrying VIPs.

The matter riled social media users, with many chiding the VIPs for apparently prioritising themselves over others, referring to those in the ambulance.


Waze with Yasmin

                PETALING JAYA: Waze now has an additional voice navigation option in Bahasa Malaysia featuring the voice of Malaysian DJ, singer, actress and former beauty queen, Datuk Yasmin Yusuff.

From offering turn-by-turn navigation directions, to safety tips such as reminding drivers to strap on their seat belts and to slow down at the sign of the red lights, Yasmin does it all!

She also throws in light-hearted utterances such as “alamak, miss!” for when you’ve missed the exit and “lubang lagi” a relatable grouse for when a pothole is ahead.

“I tend to get frustrated with the mispronunciation of our street names and thought - why not do something and voice them myself? As I happen to be a professional voiceover artist, and also the original voice of the LRT, I thought it would be fun to do Waze too!

"All it took was for me to offer my voice in the Waze Malaysia Facebook group, and before I knew it, I was contacted, did an audition tape, and voila - I’m the Bahasa voice of Waze!” said Yasmin.

Do you want to have Yasmin navigate your journey? Follow these steps to change your Waze navigation voice:
Tap the Menu , then SettingsTap Voice & SoundTap Waze voiceSelect “Bahasa Malaysia - Yasmin” from the list available under Voice directions
You can also record your own Waze voice by following these directions:
Tap the Menu , then SettingsTap Voice & SoundTap Waze voiceTap Record new voiceTap on the type of direction you'd like to record; tap the record icon to start recording and stop when you've finished recording. To check your recording, tap the play iconOnce finished recording, tap Done to give your voice a name and finish by tapping Add


Ladies of Thailand International Motor Expo 2015

BANGKOK: The 32nd Thailand International Motor Expo has its share of beautiful show girls preening and smiling for the cameras.

They could be seen helming the booth of various car and motorcycle brands and information counters in a display area that sprawls over 100,000 sq m.

Organisers of this year's expo are expecting car bookings to reach 50,000 units and big motorcycle bookings at 3,000. Highlights of the Dec 2-13 show are 10 new car launches and four concepts or prototype cars.

A total of 33 car brands from 11 countries and 15 motorcycle brands from eight countries are exhibiting at the IMPACT Exhibition and Convention Centre, located on the outskirts of the Thai capital. Among the car brands there are BMW, Carlsson, Changan, Chevrolet, Ford, Foton, Honda, Mercedes-Benz, Nissan, Jaguar Land Rover, Porsche, Subaru, Suzuki, Swift, Tata, Toyota, Volkswagen, Volvo and many more. Motorcycle makers include Benelli, BMW, Ducati, Harley-Davidson, Honda, Keeway, KTM, Royal Enfield, Suzuki, Triumph and Yamaha.

The show is expected to draw some 1.5 million visitors and generate transactions of over 55 billion Baht (RM6.5bil).

Check out our coverage of the new models featured this year.

Meanwhile, here's a look at a cross section of the lovely ladies at the 2015 Thailand International Motor Expo, which is happening at the IMPACT Exhibition and Convention Centre on the outskirts of the Thai capital.


Apple supplier Foxconn teams up with Fisker to make electric vehicles

                LOS ANGELES: Electric-car maker Fisker Inc said it will work with Apple supplier Foxconn to produce more than 250,000 vehicles a year from late 2023.

The deal, codenamed “Project PEAR” (Personal Electric Automotive Revolution), is looking at markets globally including North America, Europe, China and India, Fisker said.

Foxconn, Apple’s main iPhone maker, has ramped up its interest in electric vehicles (EVs) over the past year or so, announcing deals with Chinese electric-car maker Byton and automaker Zhejiang Geely Holding Group.

Foxconn aims to provide components or services to 10% of the world’s EVs by 2025-2027, and has been in talks with multiple car manufacturers for future cooperation, Chairman Liu Young-way said in October.

The Taiwan-based company’s approach poses a major threat to established automakers that technology companies such as Apple and other non-traditional players could use contract assemblers as a shortcut to competing in the vehicle market.

The EV space has been booming, with Tesla Inc still being the market leader. This week luxury electric-car maker Lucid Motors announced plans to go public by merging with a blank check company, even before regular production of its first model has begun.

The recent run up in valuations of several EV startups, including Nikola Corp and Lordstown Motors Corp, that have yet to produce saleable vehicles or meaningful revenue, has drawn comparisons to the dotcom bubble of 1999-2000, with analysts and investors expecting a near-term correction.

Fisker said in December Canadian auto supplier Magna International Inc would initially manufacture its first vehicle, the Ocean SUV, in Europe. The production is expected to start in the fourth quarter next year.


Could cars soon communicate with bikes and scooters to avoid fender-benders?

                DETROIT: Ford believes that the best way to avoid many of the accidents that involve cars and electric bikes or scooters would be to connect them, to enable them to "communicate" with one another.

To this end, a consortium has been created to test all the possibilities offered today by technology to avoid collisions between cars and two wheelers.

Ford is working on different technologies that would allow electric bikes and scooters to communicate with its cars, in order to make roads even safer. The idea is that the car is able to receive a maximum amount of information about the vehicles around it, and vice versa (real-time geolocation, speed, etc.).

To promote this concept and develop new joint technologies, a consortium of bicycle and scooter manufacturers has been set up under the authority of Tome Software, a startup based here, in collaboration with Ford. Many scenarios will thus be able to be put to the test.

For years Ford has been continuously improving its advanced driver assistance system, particularly with regard to the detection of moving objects, vehicles and pedestrians. This type of solution could also eventually be integrated into electric scooters from Spin, now owned by Ford.

For its part, bicycle manufacturer Trek has decided to add sensors to its taillights that are capable of triggering an alert to motorists who ride too close.

The ultimate aim, of course, is that in the future this type of communication between vehicles will be universal and will not only concern Ford cars.


October vehicle sales up 3% to 55,754 units

                KUALA LUMPUR: Total vehicle sales in October 2015 rose by three per cent, or 1,563 units, to 55,754 units from the 54,191 units in the same month last year, the Malaysian Automotive Association (MAA) said.

The sales volume for the month was nine per cent higher than the previous month due to consumers buying forward in anticipation of the increase in car prices in 2016.

READ ALSO: Compare Thailand auto sales

"The higher sales were also attributed to aggressive year-end promotional campaigns by car companies," MAA said in a statement here on Wednesday.

For passenger vehicles, MAA said, the sales in October rose to 49,063 units compared with 47,543 units in the same month last year.

Commercial vehicle sales increased to 6,691 units compared with 6,648 units in October last year, it said.

MAA said total vehicle production increased to 55,783 units in October from 45,763 units in the same month last year.

"October passenger vehicle production grew to 50,974 units from the 41,133 units in the same month of 2014. Commercial vehicle production in October rose to 4,809 units from 4,630 units in October last year," it said.

On outlook, the association said sales volume for November was expected to be maintained at October's level due to continuation of agressive year-end promotional campaigns by dealers and consumer anticipation of car price increase in 2016.


Catch the BAuto car showcase from May 31-June 5

                PETALING JAYA: BAuto Vehicle Showcase is back and will be held at Oval Concourse of 1Utama Shopping Centre here from May 31 to June 5.

The showcase will be open from 10am to 10pm daily

An array of vehicles model of the three vehicle brands under the group - Mazda, Peugeot and Kia - will be present at the showcase.

The Mazda MX-30, Mazda CX-3, Kia EV6, Kia Sorento, Peugeot Landtrek and Peugeot e-2008 will be showcased at the first BAuto Vehicle Showcase 2023.

There will be BAuto exclusive deals, Bonanza Dip and instant gifts upon sign-up of any model at the showcase.

In addition to the offers of each brand, any purchase of the vehicle during the showcase is entitled to participate in the Bonanza Dip with RM180,000 total worth of vouchers up for grabs.


Saleen goes super exclusive with its latest supercar

                LOS ANGELES: Ten years after the original S7 supercar ceased production, Saleen is bringing the model back but this time it will have over 1,000hp on tap and will be limited to exactly seven hand-built examples

When the S7 made its global debut in Monterey on Aug 19, 2000 it did so as America's first true mid-engine supercar. Using a spaceframe construction and clad entirely in carbon fibre, it boasted a naturally aspirated 7-litre Ford V8 at its centre and 550hp at its rear wheels which translated into a 0-100kph time of 3.3 seconds and a top speed of 354kph.

Over its lifetime, it received a number of engineering improvements, including turbocharging which doubled horsepower and chopped almost a whole second off the 0-100kph time. But while the road-going S7 and S7 twin turbo came and went, the racing version hung around in terms of history, winning races around the globe including at Daytona, Sebring and Nurburgring. And it's the racing success that is behind the company's decision to resurrect the model.

"True to our form, we are bringing back America's only true supercar," said Steve Saleen, President and CEO of Saleen Automotive, "We are celebrating our winning heritage and advancing the performance DNA that Saleen was built around."

The new model, which will be badged the Saleen S7 LM and limited to just seven individually constructed examples, will boast a 7-litre twin-turbocharged engine rated at 1000hp, a specially designed steering wheel, reimagined interior and special external livery to ensure they stand out from any "stock" Saleen S7s on the road.

What's more, although the original cars started out as a joint creation between Saleen and UK-based RML Group, every one of these cars will be built exclusively at Saleen's California headquarters.

The original car caused quite a stir back in 2000 and in terms of styling it still stands up to scrutiny. However, the benchmark for US supercar performance has moved on considerably thanks to Hennessey Performance Engineering and its Bugatti baiting Venom GT.

But if the new Saleen can come close to the Venom's 2.4-second 0-100kph time and 427kph top speed, it will be worth every cent.


Bentley Bentayga Mulliner Pearl of the Gulf: A personal commission

                CREWE: Bentley has created the ultimate collector’s model inspired by the Arabian Gulf’s rich pearl diving heritage, with a personal commission for a Middle Eastern customer – the Bentayga Mulliner Pearl of the Gulf.

Just five of these exquisite W12-powered cars will be handbuilt by Mulliner’s craftspeople in Crewe, England, each featuring unique Mother of Pearl and Arabian Gulf-themed motifs.

Each model has a bespoke interior that celebrates the Arabian Gulf’s history of pearl diving, a tradition that dates back millennia and was once the region’s main economic driver. Most notably, intricate marquetry to the Dark Fiddleback Eucalyptus fascia features a pearl diving dhow boat scene, beautifully inlayed with Mother of Pearl.

The luxurious cabin is appointed with Linen main hide and complemented by Brunel secondary hide – a colour scheme inspired by the natural beauty of pearls – with a Mother of Pearl Breitling clock the dashboard centrepiece.

Camel and Brunel contrast stitching is employed for the quilted seats and door inserts, while gold thread embroidery highlights this Bentayga’s pearl diving credentials. Lambswool rugs are also cut in matching Linen, while Mulliner illuminated treadplates welcome passengers in to the cabin.

Gulf pearls are among the rarest and most sought-after in the world, so to help keep valuables safe in the Bentayga Mulliner Pearl of the Gulf, Mulliner has installed an ingenious fingerprint secure storage.

The fingerprint sensor technology has been applied to a high pressure die-cast aluminium secure stowage unit located in the cabin. This discreet and unobtrusive locker creates the ideal place to stow valuables while at the beach or utilising valet parking services.


Nissan Serena 2016 to have Japan's first self-drive tech - VIDEO

                YOKOHAMA: The new Nissan Serena MPV (multi-purpose vehicle) 2016 will have ProPILOT autonomous drive technology, designed for highway use in single-lane traffic.

Nissan is the first Japanese automaker to introduce a combination of steering, accelerator and braking that can be operated in full automatic mode, easing driver workload in heavy highway traffic and long commutes.

The accelerator, brakes and steering are controlled based on information obtained through a mono camera equipped with advanced-image processing software.

The ProPILOT camera can quickly recognise data in three-dimensional depth, for both preceding vehicles and lane markers.

ProPILOT technology is extremely user-friendly, thanks to a switch on the steering wheel to easily activate and deactivate the system.

Once activated, ProPILOT automatically controls the distance between the vehicle and the preceding vehicle, using a speed preset by the driver (between 30 and 100kph).

The system also keeps the car in the middle of the highway lane by reading lane markers and controlling steering, even through curves.

If a car in front stops, ProPILOT automatically applies the brakes to bring the vehicle to a full stop.

After coming to a full stop, the vehicle will remain in place even if the driver’s foot is off the brake pedal.

When ready to resume driving, ProPILOT is activated when the driver touches the switch again or lightly presses the accelerator.

ProPILOT will be introduced in the Nissan Qashqai in Europe in 2017.

A multi-lane autonomous driving technology will enable automatic lane changes on highways and is planned for introduction in 2018 while autonomous driving on urban roads and in intersections is planned for launch in 2020.


Volkswagen to produce flexible fast charging stations in 2020

                WOLFSBURG: Volkswagen will start series production of the flexible fast charging station from 2020 onwards.

This station, based on the principle of a powerbank, can charge up to four vehicles at the same time and also be used for the interim storage of eco-power.

The station is to be produced at the Hanover components plant.

From 2020 onwards, flexible charging station production will gradually replace heat exchanger production.

The charging station is based on the battery package of the Volkswagen Group’s Modular Electric Toolkit (MEB) and is designed to use its cell modules.

Later, the charging station will provide a second life for batteries from electric vehicles. A battery loses charging capacity over time.

When a vehicle battery has reached a defined, reduced residual capacity, it will be replaced. If this battery subsequently passes a thorough analysis, it can be reused in a mobile charging station.

The consistent transformation of the product portfolio towards e-mobility is a key element in the strategy of Volkswagen.


BMW partners with AirConsole to introduce in-car gaming from 2023

                MUNICH: BMW and AirConsole have announced a partnership which will bring casual gaming into new BMW vehicles, starting next year.

AirConsole is a gaming platform that works with the BMW Curved Display and offers a large and diverse catalogue of games.

The games are run directly inside the vehicle entertainment system. The AirConsole technology enables games to be instantly delivered over-the-air and to control them using smartphones.

“With AirConsole we will leverage innovative technologies combined with a broad variety of fun and multiplayer games. This will make every waiting situation inside the vehicle, such as charging, an enjoyable moment,” said BMW Group senior vice president for connected company development Stephan Durach.

READ MORE: Mercedes-Benz enhances in-car entertainment with ZYNC

"Our ingenious architecture coupled with the ease of access of our platform will change the way people get entertained in their vehicles,” said N-Dream CEO Anthony Cliquot, whose company is behind the AirConsole brand.

Setting up the gaming experience with AirConsole is expected to be seamless. Players only need a smartphone, which serves as the game controller, and the BMW Curved Display.

The connection between the smartphone and the vehicle is established, for example, by scanning a QR code in the vehicle. The players can then enjoy entertaining gameplay.

The BMW Group chose AirConsole as a partner via the BMW Startup Garage programme.


Great Wall Motor’s US$1.5mil Internet troll-fighting plan backfires

                HONG KONG: A Chinese automaker’s plan to pay cash rewards to people exposing Internet trolls has backfired, with social-media critics saying it should have spent the money making better cars.

Great Wall Motor Co, best known for making sports utility vehicles and pickup trucks, on March 10 announced a 10mil yuan (RM6.51mil or US$1.5mil) programme to reward people who alert it to organised or paid Internet trolling against any Chinese automaker.

If the tip-off’s accuracy is verified by the company and a law enforcement agency, a reward will be paid based on the value of the information.

The plan is in response to an unhealthy social-media discourse surrounding the auto industry, according to Fu Xiaokang, a vice president at Great Wall.

He cited an example of paid trolls disputing claims a manufacturing defect caused an EV-battery fire, instead blaming the driver for setting the vehicle alight in an attempt to mislead consumers about the safety of electric cars.

He also said Chinese media has turned a blind eye to reporting some of these incidents because of Internet bullying.

“These behaviours have damaged the previously fair and honest market environment and goes against the core values of our socialist society,” Fu said at an event Friday evening where the automaker unveiled its EV strategy.

“We welcome everyone to destroy rumours and restore the truth with us.”

China’s Internet is already heavily controlled, with sensitive political and social content quickly censored by the country’s cybersecurity agency, and social media companies’ armies of content moderators.

Businesses and public figures usually take legal action against libelous posts instead of offering a reward program like Great Wall has done.

Internet users mocked the plan, saying the company should spend the money on better uses, such as improving its cars.

Others criticised the automaker for hypocrisy, considering many of the positive comments on the company’s Weibo, China’s version of Twitter, were left by the same accounts and sometimes duplicated – something commonly seen with paid-for fake social media accounts.

Great Wall didn’t immediately respond to requests for comment.


London emissions scheme offers drivers up to £5,000 to scrap old cars

                LONDON: London has introduced a new scheme that will offer motorists up to £5,000 (around RM26,000) to scrap or upgrade their car in order to meet strict new emissions rules which will effectively ban hundreds of thousands of older vehicles from entering the city.

The extension of the Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) has been decided by Transport for London (Tfl), which also runs buses and subways in the city, in a bid to help clean up air in the capital.

The scrappage money comes from a £110 million fund that will provide grant payments to applicants on low-income and disability benefits with vehicles that do not meet ULEZ requirements, ahead of the zone’s expansion in August.

The move is set to impact large numbers of older cars whose owners live in the affected area, raising fears that modern classics could end up being scrapped as a result.

There are ways that you can make older cars compliant, but in many cases the conversion would cost more than the vehicle is worth.

The zone covers a huge area of Greater London, crossing 29 boroughs from Hornchurch in the east to Hayes in the west, Epson in the south and Waltham Abbey to the north of the centre.

The ULEZ is valid 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, every day of the year (except Christmas Day/Dec 25).

Drivers who make only a short trip inside the new zone using a vehicle that does not meet the ULEZ emissions standards, will be charged £12.50 (RM65) a day. This includes residents of the ULEZ zone.

Critics say the extension is a money-grabbing exercise and according to the Daily Express tabloid, as many as 100,000 usable cars will have to be scrapped.

Although classic vehicles over 40 years of age and registered as historic are exempt from paying ULEZ charges, there are concerns that younger classics – some of them with relatively low values at present - will end up scrapped.

The Historic & Classic Vehicles Alliance (HCVA) has asked TfL reviews the age cut-off for older vehicles, suggesting that many of today’s modern classics are used primarily as hobby and leisure vehicles, cover low annual mileages and therefore represent little threat to London’s air quality.

The ULEZ standards are: at least Euro 3 for motorcycles, mopeds, motorised tricycles and quadricycles, Euro 4 (NOx) for petrol cars, vans, minibuses and other specialist vehicles and Euro 6 (NOx and PM) for diesel cars, vans and minibuses and other specialist vehicles.

Under the scrappage scheme, applicants with a wheelchair-accessible car or van can get up to £5,000, while drivers of a standard car can receive up to £2,000 (RM10,265) to scrap their vehicle. Motorcycle riders can also receive up to £1,000 (RM5,133) for scrapping their bike.

Applicants also have the option of receiving a combination of cash and annual bus and tram passes.


5 highlights of the refreshed Ford Ranger

                Ford’s built-tough image has come back with a bolder appearance in addition to getting smarter features.

1) Bold and tough

The new facelift for the Ford Ranger has the rugged appeal with the new chrome grille design and muscular lines of the hood.

2) Efficient and powerful engines

The newly tuned Duratorq TDCi diesel engines ranging from 2.2- to 3.2-litre are more fuel efficient by 12% compared to the previous generation and refined. There is even a power and torque increase in the case of the 2.2-litre engine.

3) Smart features

In addition to a 4X4 drivetrain and electronic stability control, the top of the range Wildtrak variant offers six airbags and advanced safety features such as the Lane Keeping Aid, Lane Departure Warning, Adaptive Cruise Control and Forward Collision Warning.

4) Off-road capabilities

It can wade through water up to 800mm, has the electronic-Locking Rear Differential, Hill Launch Assist, Hill Descent Control features which assists the driver through harsh terrains with ease.

5) It comes in Orange

You wouldn’t think colour makes a difference but it does. The Wildtrak variant looks decidedly cool with Pride Orange. It just stands out above the rest.


All-new BMW M3 CS with 550hp unveiled

                MUNICH: BMW M GmbH will maintain its focus on adding highly appealing special-edition models to its product range in 2023.

The all-new BMW M3 CS is a prime example.

It brings even greater intensity to the racing allure that marks out the company’s successful high-performance models for the premium midsize segment.

An intelligent lightweight construction featuring a large number of carbon fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP) components, plus increased engine power, a bespoke chassis setup, exclusive design features and a specification precision-honed to deliver an exhilarating performance experience on the track, combine with the functionality and everyday usability of the M3 Sedan.

The powertrain concept for the new M3 CS teams a 405 kW/550 hp six-cylinder in-line engine with an eight-speed M Steptronic transmission and the M xDrive intelligent all-wheel-drive system. These combine to produce a 0 to 100kph time of 3.4 seconds and supreme driving talents that can be enjoyed from each of its four seats.

The new M3 CS will be built in a limited run at BMW Group Plant Munich from March 2023, with its phased launch getting under way the same month. The USA, Germany, the UK and Japan are the most important sales regions for the new special-edition model.

A more power/less weight formula instils the new M3 CS with compelling performance qualities and an exclusive aura. It draws its power from a specially upgraded version of the high-revving six-cylinder in-line engine with M TwinPower Turbo technology developed for the M3 and M4 models. This 3.0-litre unit also forms the basis for the engine that powered the BMW M4 GT3 to the DTM touring car title at the first time of asking in 2022.

The engine under the bonnet of the new M3 CS therefore also boasts a wealth of technological details derived directly from the race-car unit. The unit’s considerable upgrade potential paved the way for a 30 kW/40 hp hike in peak output compared with the M3 Competition Sedan with M xDrive resulting in 405 kW/550 hp.

This increase in power was achieved courtesy of targeted revisions to the engine’s M TwinPower Turbo technology and required no concessions in terms of stability or durability. The adjustments primarily involved raising the maximum charge pressure of the two mono-scroll turbochargers from 1.7 to 2.1 bar and making some model-specific tweaks to the engine management.

In addition, a specially designed engine mounting with increased spring rates creates an extremely rigid connection between the power unit and the vehicle’s structure. A press of the accelerator is therefore greeted by even sharper engine response and direct transmission of its power to the drivetrain. The engine puts peak torque of 650Nm on tap from just 2,750 rpm and sustains it all the way to 5,950 rpm. It generates maximum output at 6,250 rpm and tops out at 7,200 rpm.

The unit’s specific performance characteristics are dominated by its unabated power delivery through to the upper rev range. This is accompanied by the emotionally stirring soundtrack produced by the dual-branch exhaust system featuring electrically controlled flaps, a titanium rear silencer with weight-minimising design and – in customary M fashion – two pairs of tailpipes painted in matt Black.

Selecting the SPORT or SPORT+ modes for the engine setting in the M Setup menu dials up the drive sound to produce a note with unmissable racing car undertones. This injects real aural drama into proceedings, particularly with gear changes and the accompanying adjustments in rev speed.

The drive torque unleashed by the engine in the new M3 CS is relayed via an eight-speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic. This is operated using either the M-specific selector lever on the centre console or the carbon-fibre shift paddles on the steering wheel. The driver can use the Drivelogic button integrated into the selector lever to alter the transmission’s shift characteristics, with the choice of comfort-oriented, sporty and track-optimised settings.

The traction and agility of the new M3 CS are both enhanced by the presence of M xDrive all-wheel drive, which uses an electronically controlled multi-plate clutch in the transfer case to ensure fully variable and super-smooth distribution of the engine’s power between the front and rear wheels. The multi-plate clutch’s oil supply has been optimised to keep the all-wheel-drive system performing effectively even under hard driving on the track. The system’s rear-wheel bias and the way it teams up with the Active M Differential at the rear axle – whose operation is also fully variable – add to the signature M feeling when accelerating or powering through corners.

The M Setup menu lets the driver switch from the default 4WD setting to 4WD Sport mode, which directs an even greater proportion of the engine’s torque to the rear wheels. Drivers can also switch off the DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) system altogether and engage 2WD mode. By sending drive power solely to the rear wheels and suppressing any intervention from the control systems to stabilise the vehicle, this setting engages skilled drivers in the driving experience to an even more intense degree.

The engine, transmission and M xDrive join forces to produce stunning acceleration times. The new BMW M3 CS takes just 3.4 seconds to power from 0 to 100kph and 11.1 seconds to reach 200kph from rest. The midrange surge from 80 to 120kph is over in 2.6 seconds (in 4th gear) or 3.3 seconds (in 5th gear). The M3 CS comes with the M Driver’s Package as standard and has an electronically limited top speed of 302kph.

The chassis technology in the new M3 CS has been tuned precisely to the engine’s performance characteristics, the overall vehicle concept and its weight distribution. The model-specific settings for the DSC system and M Dynamic Mode have also been geared to the specific demands of high-speed circuit driving.

Standard specification for the special-edition model includes M Compound brakes with brake callipers painted in a choice of Red or Black. There is also the option of M Carbon ceramic brakes whose brake callipers are available in matt Gold or Red.

Also on the standard equipment list are forged M light-alloy wheels in an exclusive V-spoke design with a Gold Bronze finish. These particular M light-alloy wheels can also be ordered in an optional matt Black finish. Measuring 19 inches in diameter at the front axle and 20 inches at the rear, the wheels are fitted as standard with track tyres that have been purpose-developed for the special-edition model and measure 275/35 ZR19 at the front and 285/30 ZR20 at the rear.

As an alternative to these tyres, which are specially designed for circuit driving, customers also have the no-cost option of high-performance tyres with the same dimensions.

Besides its carbon fibre roof, the special-edition model also uses this lightweight, high-tech material for its bonnet, front splitter, front air intakes, exterior mirror caps, rear diffuser and rear spoiler. Its centre console, the shift paddles on the steering wheel and its interior trim strips are likewise all manufactured from CFRP. The standard M Carbon bucket seats also do their bit to keep weight down in the cabin. The titanium rear silencer, meanwhile, shaves more than 4 kilograms off the weight of the exhaust system fitted on the new M3 CS. The various lightweight design measures bring about a total weight saving of some 20 kilograms compared to the BMW M3 Competition Sedan with M xDrive.

Body rigidity can be further increased by specifying a package of high-precision strut braces for the engine compartment that have also been engineered for lightness. The cast aluminium elements connecting the spring strut towers to the front end feature a weight-optimised geometry that has been precisely matched – with the help of numerical models – to the forces applied in various driving situations.

The Frozen Solid White metallic paint finish available for the exterior is exclusive to the latest special-edition model from BMW M GmbH. Exposed carbon-fibre surfaces for the roof, the two indents chiselled into the bonnet, the front splitter, front air intakes, M exterior mirror caps, rear spoiler and rear apron combine with the Black side skirts and M gills to provide a stunning contrast to the new paint finish. Signal Green solid, Brooklyn Grey metallic and Sapphire Black metallic are available as alternative exterior colours.

The vehicle’s front end sports a weight-saving, frameless BMW kidney grille with a stripped-back air reminiscent of racing machines. Designed especially for this model, identifying features include red contour lines and the “M3 CS” badging on the upper of the two horizontal grille bars. Both the model badge at the front and its counterpart on the boot lid have black surfaces with a red border.

The BMW Laserlight headlights included in standard specification add another particularly striking flourish to the front end of the new M3 CS. By illuminating yellow instead of white – both during the Welcome sequence when the vehicle is unlocked and while low beam or high beam is switched on – they reference successful GT racing cars.

Inside the new M3 CS, the driver and front passenger are welcomed as standard by M Carbon bucket seats in a model-specific design. Fully electric and heated, they feature integral head restraints along with an illuminated model badge, resulting in a unique blend of racing flair and long-distance comfort. The use of CFRP in the structural elements of the seat cushion and backrest as well as the eye-catching cut-outs in the side bolsters and below the head restraints are testimony to the seats’ weight-minimising construction.

The M Carbon bucket seats are upholstered in Merino leather and feature an exclusive design in a Black/Red colour scheme with distinctive contrast stitching. This bi-colour finish is repeated for the two seats in the rear compartment of the sedan. The door panels are trimmed entirely in Black leather in both the front and the rear, while red “CS” lettering adorns the lightweight-design centre console. The standard equipment roster for the M3 CS also includes M seat belts with a woven stripe pattern in BMW M GmbH colours, door sill plates bearing the inscription “M3 CS”, an Anthracite-coloured headliner, interior trim strips in Carbon Fibre finish and an M Alcantara steering wheel with CFRP shift paddles and a red centre marker.

The M-specific control/operation system includes the Setup button on the centre console, which enables direct access to the settings options for the engine, chassis, steering, braking system and M xDrive. Two individually configured setup variants can be stored permanently, together with the preferred settings for the engine note, the DSC system, the Automatic Start/Stop function and the shift characteristics of the eight-speed M Steptronic transmission, and then retrieved using the M buttons on the steering wheel.

Also fitted as standard in the new M3 CS is the M Drive Professional system. Consequently, not only does the special-edition model benefit from the M Drift Analyser and M Laptimer functions for evaluating and recording driving skills and performance at the track, it additionally comes with M Traction Control, whose ten stages provide the ideal tools for pushing the car hard on closed circuits.

The M Mode button on the centre console – also part of the M Drive Professional package – can be used to adjust both the level of driver assistance system activity and the content shown in the information display and optional Head-Up Display, with a choice of ROAD, SPORT and TRACK settings.

The new M3 CS boasts the latest-generation BMW iDrive vehicle experience based on BMW Operating System 8, which includes the BMW Curved Display for the cockpit. This is formed by a 12.3-inch information display and a control display with a screen diagonal of 14.9 inches, which are housed together behind a curved glass surface.

The information display’s graphical layout and the M-style content shown there lend themselves to a focused, performance-led driving experience. All driving-related data as well as vehicle status and settings information are neatly arranged within it. The familiar M Shift Lights appear at the top of the information display, while the driving stability system, M xDrive and traction control modes are all indicated at the lower edge. Special widgets containing information on the current vehicle setup, as well as tyre pressure and temperature can be added to the control display’s home screen.

The standard BMW Live Cockpit Professional comes with functions including the BMW Maps navigation system, the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant, smartphone integration, telephony with wireless charging and a WiFi interface. The BMW Head-Up Display with M-specific readouts and the BMW Drive Recorder are both available as options.

The new M3 CS additionally offers customers a select choice of comfort features and driver assistance systems, with the focus on intense driving pleasure. It is equipped as standard with the latest version of Comfort Access, two-zone automatic climate control, the Harman Kardon Surround Sound System, Park Distance Control, Front Collision Warning, Lane Departure Warning and the Speed Limit Info system. An alarm system, automatic boot lid operation and the Driving Assistant and Parking Assistant systems can be added as options.

The arrival of the latest M model comes at a time when  BMW M GmbH has once again achieved record results.  Global sales of performance and high-performance cars rose to 177,257 vehicles during the 2022 financial year. This represents an increase of 8.4 per cent compared to the previous year, despite the continuing challenging conditions in the area of logistics and supply chains. The most important single market in 2022 was again the USA, with the second most important sales region again being the German domestic market, followed by the UK.

> SPECIFICATIONS


MCO extended to April 14

                PUTRAJAYA: Be prepared mentally and physically for the long haul. The Government today said the movement control order (MCO) will be extended for another two weeks until April 14,

Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin said he was given a briefing by the National Security Council and Health Ministry and the trend showed new Covid-19 positive cases had spiked.

"The trend is expected to continue for a while before we can see the number of new cases reported decline.

"The government is of the opinion that the movement control order should continue.

"In line with this, the Government have decided to extend the MCO until April 14. I am informing you on the extension earlier so that the people can be prepared," he said

Muhyiddin said it was important to stop Covid-19 infections and the strategy can be a success if the people are not exposed to the virus through daily interactions.

As at 1pm today, 172 new Covid-19 positive cases were reported, bringing the cumulative cases to 1,796.

The Prime Minister noted that in the past week alone, 673 new cases were reported.

"The public must be mentally and physically prepared to stay at home for a reasonably longer period of time," he said.

The Prime Minister said those who had left for their respective hometowns need not rush back to Kuala Lumpur or other cities at the end of this week.

Students who are scheduled to return to hostels also need not do so and offices that are closed need not resume operation.

"Please stay calm and don't panic. Even though we have extended the movement control order (MCO), you don't have to unnecessarily stock up on food because the supply is sufficient. I assure you that there is enough food for everybody.

"I know you feel burdened but I don't have a choice. I have to extend the MCO for your own safety," he said.


Weiron’s hot streak continues in Alabama

                PETALING JAYA: Malaysia’s Weiron Tan is on a roll.

The 20-year-old maintained his superb start to the Pro Mazda Championship campaign in the United States by winning Round 4 at the Barber Motorsports Park in Alabama.

It was his second straight podium in the championship after finishing second in Round 3 at the Nola Motorsports Park in Louisiana earlier this month.

The track proved to be a happy hunting ground for Weiron as he scored a dominant victory on Monday and a runner-up finish at the Pro Mazda Winterfest in February.

The rookie driver for Andretti Autosport showed he meant business by clocking the fastest lap time in official practice and continued his impressive form into qualifying, taking pole position for Round 4.

Weiron took a perfect lights to flag victory, crossing the line over two seconds ahead of nearest opponent Frenchman Timothe Buret.

Weiron started Round 5 from pole position – his fourth consecutive of the season – but hopes of a double win faded after an incident at the starting line caused him to drop to 15th.

Weiron finished the 17-lap race in 13th spot to be placed fourth in the overall standings on 76 points.

“I’m very happy with yesterday’s results although today’s was disappointing. The aim was to get pole position in the first race as it’s important to start at the front here ... it also helps us with points,” said the Kuala Lumpur-born Weiron, who is the only Asian driver in the field.

“We got the job done and then it was the first race. As soon as we got going, I just kept my head down and put in some good laps and I won.

“I was confident we could get another win, so I’m disappointed with the second race result. But I learned a lot and am now looking forward to driving at The Brickyard next month.”

The championship will continue with a triple-header at the Indianapolis Grand Prix Circuit from May 7-9.


Castrol Service Package now available on Shopee

                KUALA LUMPUR: The Castrol Service Package for car oil changes is now available via the Castrol Malaysia official e-store on Shopee.

The initiative promises a hassle-free experience for customers buying this package with a guarantee that their cars will be serviced with genuine Castrol lubricants.

Customers can search for Service Packages via the Shopee Castrol Official Store and select their desired service voucher.

Upon purchase, customers can proceed to book an appointment at one of Castrol’s many authorised workshops. On the day of the workshop visit, the car will be subjected to a 15-point inspection by a mechanic to make necessary fluid changes in accordance with the voucher purchase.

When paying, click “redeem” on the in-app voucher to claim it and present the branch code page to workshop staff to complete the redemption.

The introduction of this service package comes on the back of Castrol Malaysia’s launch of its e-store on Shopee in November 2019.


Tesla aims to double vehicle sales in Germany in 2022, says weekly

                FRANKFURT: Tesla is planning to double vehicle sales in Germany in 2022, German weekly Automobilwoche reported, citing a local executive.

"Our goal is to double sales each year, which translates into around 80,000 units in 2022," the executive was quoted as saying.

In 2021, Tesla sold 39,714 vehicles in Germany, where the carmaker has built its first European gigafactory in Gruenheide near Berlin.

Tesla was not immediately available for comment.


Citroën shows off a more adventurous C4 Cactus

PARIS: The Citroen C4 Cactus is expanding its range with the world premiere of a special edition at the Geneva Motor Show. The Citroën C4 Cactus Rip Curl is the result of a collaboration between Citroën and Rip Curl, the Australian surfing brand.

The C4 Cactus Rip Curl is supposed to boost the outdoor spirit of the model through its introduction as an adventurous version.

The latest version is more technologically advanced, with a higher level of all-road performance.

The C4 Cactus Rip Curl's claim to fame is enhanced traction. Associated with the more powerful C4 Cactus engines, each mated to a manual gearbox (PureTech 110 S&S manual and BlueHDi 100 manual). Citroën’s C4 Cactus Rip Curl Special Edition is the only version to come with Grip Control. The car also features special mud and snow tyres to help keep it moving on difficult surfaces.

The Grip Control system provides the benefit of intelligent traction in "off-road" mode. It uses an advanced anti-skid function built into the ESP computer, which manages the traction from the driven front wheels, and has various other modes for different types of terrain. The Grip Control selector, set in the centre of the dashboard, provides access to five operating modes: Standard, Sand, Off-road, Snow and ESP Off.

Each of the last four modes is operational up to a pre-set speed limit and then automatically reverts to Standard mode.

Citroën C4 Cactus Rip Curl's specific look includes: white door mirrors, white roof-bars and a white vertical strip on the wings blending geometric patterns and the Rip Curl logo. The rear quarter-lights feature the same pattern, applied horizontally, with the Rip Curl signature in white lettering. This graphic firmly places the car in the surfing world.

The Citroën C4 Cactus Rip Curl also features front and rear aluminium-coloured protection plates that reinforce its ‘adventurer’ identity.

The C4 Cactus Rip Curl's cabin features orange detailing. The orange safety belts contrast with the interior finish of the Mica Grey fabric seats (standard specification) or the black part-leather upholstery (optional). The same colour schemes appear elsewhere in the cabin. The protective floor mats feature orange stitching and a label bearing the surfing brand's logo. To carry on the theme of contrasts with the Stone Grey ambience on-board, the C4 Cactus Rip Curl's loudspeakers are also finished with an orange flourish.

Standard equipment includes: rear parking sensors and camera, automatic climate control, automatic headlamps and front wipers, navigation system, 6-speaker MP3 audio system, cruise control/speed limiter and tinted windows. So you can remain at one with nature, the Citroën C4 Cactus Rip Curl is fitted as standard with a panoramic glass roof, complete with thermal protection.

Citroen said the car would go on sale in the first half of 2016.


GM to test wireless electric car charging

                DETROIT: Until charging points are as plentiful as gas stations and topping up batteries as fast as filling a traditional fuel tank, many will still think twice about buying an electric car.

But what if every time an electric car was stationary its batteries were automatically charging?

GM has just become the first US carmaker to deliver on its promise of an affordable electric car capable of covering the average driver's daily commute without running out of juice.

But, instead of resting on its laurels, it's announced a partnership with WiTricity to develop a prototype wireless charging pad that could keep a car charged up every time it's in a parking space or the owner's garage.

"The electric vehicle has been recognised as central to the future of mobility, and GM has been a leader, making EVs accessible to the broader market. The convenience of wireless charging will help accelerate adoption even further," said Alex Gruzen (pic), CEO, WiTricity.

The prototype pad would potentially charge any type of electric car including plug-in hybrids and would have a charge rate of between 7.7 and 11kW.

"Wireless charging for EVs, based on industry standards, is inevitable as we move towards a future of self-driving and autonomous vehicles, and this project brings us one step closer to realising our vision of a world powered wirelessly," Gruzen said.

Wireless charging is already beginning to gain momentum among mobile device makers as a hassle-free way of ensuring smartphones and even PCs always have sufficient juice to be of service.

And while there has been exploratory work on how induction charging pads integrated into a road surface could keep an electric vehicle going all day, projects have been small-scale and isolated.

For example in Italy, electric bus fleets in Turin and Genoa have been using induction chargers since 2002. The tiny top-ups at bus stops add up to 15% battery life - enough to ensure that each bus can cover a full 201km in a day without stopping to be plugged in and recharged properly.

WiTricity's initial pad will be one that car owners can use at home, but work on the project could easily lead to more powerful systems that could be integrated into infrastructure.

"Wireless charging is a technology that our customers have told us they are interested in," said Pamela Fletcher, GM Executive Chief Engineer - Electrified Vehicles.

"By testing the WiTricity prototype system, we can ensure that wireless charging systems will comply with proposed industry standards, which benefits the entire industry and consumers."


March 8-14: RON95 petrol price up, diesel's dips

PETALING JAYA: RON95 petrol surges up 1 sen while diesel dips by the same amount for the next seven days.

RON95 will be priced at RM2.21 per litre and diesel at RM2.17.

Meanwhile, RON97 petrol price is unchanged at RM2.47 per litre.

The new prices, valid from March 8-14, were announced on RTM1 today and will take effect from 12.01am.


UMW Toyota Motor plans high volume production of hybrid offerings

                SHAH ALAM: In-line with Toyota Motor Corp (TMC)'s global commitment towards carbon neutrality by 2050 in a practical and sustainable manner, UMW Toyota Motor is also gearing towards achieving the Japanese automaker goals locally.

UMW Toyota Motor deputy chairman Akio Takeyama said: “The mass production and growing acceptance of Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEV) will lead to the entire automotive eco-system evolving to embrace a more conscious and concerted effort in reducing Malaysia’s carbon footprint.”

He also said TMC's eco-friendly objectives are consistent with the Government’s aspirations to position the country as a progressive nation that promotes more green technology and environmental sustainability.

“This is indeed an exciting time for the Malaysian automotive industry and UMW Toyota Motor is fully charged and ready to champion this Malaysian dream.

“In order to achieve this, the most realistic, practical and immediate solution is Toyota Hybrid Electric technology and vehicles,” Takeyama said.

UMW Toyota Motor has been producing Toyota vehicles locally for more than 52 years.

The company had previously sold hybrid vehicles locally such as the Prius, Prius C and Camry Hybrid under the Toyota brand and CT200h, NX Hybrid, RX Hybrid and LS Hybrid under Lexus.

 Prius. Camry Hybrid. CT200h.

As one of the pioneers of hybrid electric vehicle technology, Toyota is committed to have 70 electrified vehicle models by 2025, including vehicles powered by hydrogen fuel-cell electric, battery-electric, and hybrid electric.

To leverage on Toyota's agility to pivot its vehicle development towards the practical and sustainable solutions, where the eco-system, technology and infrastructure becomes viable, cost effective and widely accepted, UMW Toyota Motor will invest a further RM270mil locally into expanding its current manufacturing operations and facility.

UMW Toyota Motor’s new investment for eco-friendly initiatives is on top of an earlier RM2bil that went into the construction and commissioning of its new plant in Bukit Raja.

Regarded as one of the most modern, advanced and efficient Toyota plants in Asia, the Bukit Raja facility is already well positioned at the forefront of Malaysia’s aspiration to becoming a regional automotive hub in Energy Efficient Vehicles (EEV).

 Takeyama and Ravindran.

The plant’s environmental footprint includes the installation of 2MW of solar panels and in its ability to collect and recycle 156 cubic metres of rainwater.

It also holds the distinction of featuring the lowest Volatile Organic Compound emissions in Asia with the installation of a Regenerative Thermal Oxidiser.

UMW Toyota Motor president Ravindran K said the immediate steps the company could take to prevent global warming were to address its vehicles and manufacturing processes.

“It involves a conscientious change in mindset in society, educating the young of the importance of protecting the environment and requiring the active participation of all stakeholders,” he said, adding that both Toyota and UMW Toyota Motor’s interests have gone beyond the automotive realm to offset the effects the CO2 emissions.

Meanwhile, Takeyama said the local manufacturing of Toyota Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEV) would translate into advancing into a new era of motoring for Malaysian car buyers, one that gives them access to the latest and most innovative technologies, at a price point that is practical and accessible to the greater masses.

“Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEV) are a pivotal bridge to achieving full vehicle electrification. At present, the Battery Electric technology still requires time for full technology development making the Hybrid Electric technology most appropriate for immediate implementation.

“While time is still needed for full electrification, the HEV technology is ready today and the current infrastructure permits for it to be rolled out on a greater scale, ” he said.


Jaguar Land Rover develops smart city hub to test self-driving vehicle tech

                LONDON: Jaguar Land Rover is partnering with global software, mobility and telecoms companies to create a smart city hub that will allow real-world testing of connected technology where self-driving vehicles share the streets with cars, pedestrians and cyclists.

The Future Mobility Campus Ireland (FMCI) will be a collaborative testbed spread across 12km of public roads, providing the facilities and expertise to harness valuable sensor data, simulate a variety of road environments and traffic scenarios and trial new technologies. As part of the trials, the all-electric Jaguar I-PACE will be deployed for testing.

The testbed will advance Jaguar Land Rover’s research into autonomous, connected, electrified and shared vehicles – a key part of the company’s commitment to making societies safer and healthier with pioneering technology.

The real-world facility will be equipped with sensors throughout the site, along with high-accuracy location systems, a data management and control centre and self-driving prototype vehicles. It will feature smart junctions, connected roads, autonomous parking and electric vehicle charging as well as links to a 450km stretch of connected highway and a managed air traffic corridor for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) from Shannon airport along the Shannon Estuary in Ireland.

Jaguar Land Rover is a lead partner of the FMCI and will collaborate with a host of other global technology companies to develop the facility, including Cisco, Seagate, Renovo, Red Hat, Valeo and Mergon. Traditionally such testing sites have been established overseas. The FMCI provides Jaguar Land Rover with a key research site next to an existing facility: its Shannon software hub.

John Cormican, General Manager for Shannon Ireland Jaguar Land Rover, said: "This partnership with FMCI provides us with a real-world facility to trial our emerging autonomous, connected, electrified and shared technology in a strategic location. Collaborating with top-tier software companies will allow us to develop our future systems more efficiently.”

Russell Vickers, CEO of FMCI, said: “The smart city zone provides a first-class facility for global companies to work together and develop world-leading technology, from autonomous vehicles to connected infrastructure. The testbed provides an opportunity to test in the real world and help answer some of the questions posed by the future of mobility in a collaborative and efficient way.”


Shell Rimula Express targets commercial vehicle workshops

Participants at the recent Shell Rimula Express launch event.
KUALA LUMPUR: Shell Lubricants Malaysia has launched the Shell Rimula Express workshop network of branded commercial vehicle workshops nationwide.

Selected commercial vehicle workshop owners will have the chance to work with Shell when they become part of the Shell Rimula Express network. Through this network, workshop owners will receive support from Shell Lubricants Malaysia to expand their business. Some of these include exclusive branding that enhances market presence and customer confidence, marketing package and technical support.

“The Shell Rimula Express workshop network is a collaboration that can help to protect the future of independent workshops so that they can remain competitive, thrive, and grow their business," said Shell Lubricants general manager for Malaysia and Singapore Leslie Ng.

"Today, it’s no longer enough for workshops to deliver ‘business-as-usual’ services especially when customers demand more. The focus for most workshop owners has also shifted to one that requires them to further monetise their service delivery and sustainably grow revenue.”

To date, more than 40 workshops across Peninsular Malaysia have joined the Shell Rimula Express network. Shell Lubricants Malaysia targets to expand its network to more than 100 Shell Rimula Express workshops across Peninsular Malaysia by the end of 2017.

 Workshop owner Pang Boon Hee (second from right) receiving his Shell Rimula Express certificate from Shell Lubricants Malaysia sales director Leong Tak Chuan.


EON unveils new logo, announces nine Proton dealerships

KUALA LUMPUR: Auto distributor Edaran Otomobil Nasional Bhd (EON) has unveiled a new logo for the brand, marking the inclusion of Proton as a new marque under their stable.

"The new logo is a total departure from EON’s previous logo,” the company said in a statement today.

Additionally, EON also announced that the company now owns nine dealerships, which were previously owned by Proton Edar Sdn Bhd.

This includes four 4S (sales, service, spares and spray) centres and three 3S outlets.

Four of the branches are located in the central region, and two branches each in Johor and Penang, it said.

"With Proton making a strong comeback with a new and revised model range, EON is well-positioned to take advantage of the popularity of the national car.

"The addition of Proton to the EON stable adds further sheen to the list of brands the company manages.” it said.

Currently, EON also sells German marques, Audi and Volkswagen, as well as Japan’s Mitsubishi range.

DRB-Hicom Bhd wholly owns EON and has a 50.1% stake in Proton.


Smartphone-compatible pedestrian crossing lights to make Japan safer

Japan is planning to upgrade thousands of pedestrian crossing lights so that they can communicate with smartphones. — dpa
TOKYO: In efforts to make its rapidly ageing population safer in the streets, Japan is planning to upgrade thousands of pedestrian crossing lights so that they can communicate with smartphones.

The "smart" crossing light can let a visually impaired pedestrian know whether it has turned red, yellow or green via their smartphone, both with an acoustic alert as well as with vibration.

Police want to upgrade 2,000 lights at the start of the new fiscal year, in April, the business newspaper Nihon Keizai Shimbun says.

In Japan, there are already about 24,000 crossing lights that will make a loud sound when they turn green, but often the acoustic cue is switched off at night and early in the morning, reports the paper.

It was during this time, however, when accidents, sometimes fatal, involving visually impaired people have repeatedly been reported.

The new system, which went through an initial test phase in three prefectures at 74 locations, should help improve the situation.


Peugeot launches new logo

                PARIS: French carmaker Peugeot has unveiled a new logo featuring a close-up of a "magnificent lion's head."

The new logo replaces the old design which was introduced in 2010.

The company said the logo redesign was to keep pace with its range of automobile which had been completely overhauled over the last 10 years.

"Peugeot is a brand in tune with the times, With even a step ahead of its time, it keeps abreast of innovation, anticipates changes in behaviour and paves the way for new mobility solutions," the company said.

It also said the lion emblem was a reflection of Peugeot's powerful and instinctive brand.

"This new coat of arms, in the effigy of the lion, has always been part of the brand. It shines a proud spotlight on the values of the Peugeot brand.

"It is synonymous with prestige, confidence, longevity and lineage. With it and its new visual identity, Peugeot is joining history and hyper-modernity," the company said.


Trump's China tech war backfires on automakers as chips run short

                DETROIT: Automakers around the world are shutting assembly lines because of a global shortage of semiconductors that in some cases has been exacerbated by the Trump administration’s actions against key Chinese chip factories, industry officials said.

The shortage, which caught much of the industry off-guard and could continue for many months, is now causing Ford Motor Co, Subaru Corp and Toyota Motor Corp to curtail production in the United States.

Automakers affected in other markets include Volkswagen, Nissan Motor Co Ltd and Fiat Chrysler Automobiles.

The problems stem from a confluence of factors as auto manufacturers compete against the sprawling consumer electronics industry for chip supplies. Consumers have stocked up on laptops, gaming consoles and other electronic products during the pandemic, creating tight chip supplies throughout 2020.

They have also bought more cars than industry officials expected last spring, further straining supplies.

In at least one case, the shortage ties back to President Donald Trump’s policies aimed at curtailing technology transfers to China.

One automaker moved chip production from China’s Semiconductor Manufacturing International, or SMIC, which was hit with US government restrictions in December, to Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co in Taiwan, which in turn was overbooked, said a person familiar with the matter.

An auto supplier confirmed TSMC has been unable to keep up with demand.

“The systemic aspect of the crisis is giving us a headache,” said a supplier executive, who asked not to be identified. “In some cases, we find substitution parts that could make us independent from TSMC, only to discover that the alternative wafer manufacturer has no capacity available.”

TSMC and SMIC did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

On an earnings call with investors Thursday, TSMC chief executive C.C. Wei said there was a shortage of automotive chips made with “mature technology” and that it is working with customers “to mitigate the shortage impact.”

It only takes the tiniest of chips to throw off production: a Ford plant in Kentucky that makes the Escape sport utility vehicle idled because of a shortage of a chip in the vehicle’s brake system, a union official in the plant said.

Ford also will idle its Focus plant in Saarlouis, Germany, for a month starting next week because of chip shortages.

The situation is unlikely to improve quickly, since all chips, whether bound for a laptop or a Lexus, start life as a silicon wafer that takes about 90 days to process into a chip.

The chipmaking industry has always strained to keep up with sudden demand spikes. The factories that produce wafers cost tens of billions of dollars to build, and expanding their capacity can take up to a year for testing and qualifying complex tools.

“The long and short of it is, demand is up about 50%. And there’s no asset-intensive industry like ours that has 50% capacity lying around,” said Mike Hogan, senior vice president at chip manufacturer GlobalFoundries and head of its automotive unit.

Huawei Effect

Tight capacity and soaring demand has made it difficult for chip producers to absorb two shocks from the Trump administration.

First, the White House in September banned Huawei Technologies Co Ltd, the Chinese telecommunications giant and a major smartphone maker, from buying chips made with American technology.

Huawei stockpiled chips ahead of the ban in order to keep building what products it could after it took effect. And Huawei’s rivals, eyeing a chance to grab market share, started snapping up chips, analysts said.

Second, the US government enacted rules that bar SMIC from using some US tools to make chips, a move that has prompted at least some of SMIC’s customers to look for a different chip factory because of concerns that production could be disrupted.

“There’s a fear of using a Chinese chip factory if the United States is going to put them on an entity list,” said Daniel Goehl, chief business officer of UltraSense Systems, referring to possible further restrictions.

A Commerce Department spokesman declined to comment on the implications of the SMIC and Huawei blacklistings for the auto sector but said that the top priority was “to ensure the Export Administration Regulation protects US national security, economic security, and foreign policy interests.”

Analysts said the automotive chip shortage is likely to persist for as long as six months. An AutoForecast Solutions report estimated the global auto industry had already experienced lost volume of 202,000 vehicles as of Jan 13.

Executives at automakers and suppliers said they are adapting production schedules to protect chips used in higher-profit vehicles. And companies are weighing sourcing chips from more suppliers and increasing inventory levels in the future.

“It’s four-dimensional chess all day long,” said one auto official, who asked not to be identified.


Turbocharged Honda Civic top pick in Sabah media drive

                KOTA KINABALU: Honda Malaysia held the media test drive of the 10th-generation Civic in Sabah on Thursday.

With two variants being offered in the drive - the proven 1.8-litre i-VTEC with 141PS/173Nm and new 1.5-litre turbocharged direct injection VTEC engine with 173PS/220Nm, the latter was the favourite among motoring writers.

With Kota Kinabalu as the start point and winding mountainous roads of the Kinabalu highlands as the test ground, the turbocharged Civic easily set a new benchmark for a family car that has been re-invented for quicker drives and high visual appeal.

Ride comfort is still maintained but handling is now a few notches up.

The use of a continuously variable transmission that is tuned to shift like an automatic transmission with torque converter, makes fast driving exciting and fun.

That’s all for now from Sabah. Look out for our full test report soon.

READ MORE:
What have improved in new Honda Civic
10th-gen Honda Civic arrives, priced from RM113,800
Honda Civic driven in Thailand
New Honda Civic hatchback prototype unveiled in Indonesia


New Lamborghini Huracán EVO debuts in Malaysia

                EPANG: Lamborghini Kuala Lumpur introduced the new Huracán EVO at Sepang International Circuit at an event attended by customers and members of the media.

Deliveries are expected to start in Q4, 2019 with price to be announced closer to that time. It is expected to be around RM1.15mil (base price before taxes), similar to the Huracan Performante this EVO replaces.

The Huracán EVO features the 5.2 l naturally-aspirated Lamborghini V10 engine which produces a higher power output and an emotional and powerful sound with Titanium intake valves and refined lightweight exhaust system.

The Huracán EVO outputs 640hp at 8,000rpm with 600Nm of torque delivered at 6,500rpm.

With a dry weight of 1,422kg the Huracán EVO reaches a power-to-weight ratio of 2.22kg/hp, accelerates from 0-100kph in 2.9 seconds and from 0-200kph in 9.0 seconds with a top speed of more than 325kph.

It is the first Lamborghini with predictive logic on vehicle dynamics control: fully-integrated Lamborghini Vehicle Dynamics Control System combined with all-wheel drive, all-wheel steering for redefined parameters of responsiveness, agility and easiness to drive.

The Huracán EVO features new Lamborghini rear-wheel steering and a torque vectoring system working on the four wheels, while at the heart of the car is the new feature of Lamborghini Dinamica Veicolo Integrata (LDVI): a Central Processing Unit that controls every aspect of the car’s dynamic behaviour, fully integrating all of the car’s dynamic systems and set-up to anticipate the next move and needs of the driver.

Lamborghini Piattaforma Inerziale (LPI), a comprehensive set of accelerators and gyroscope sensors placed at the car’s centre of gravity, has been enhanced to version 2.0.

The magnetorheological suspension, upgraded to version 2.0, instantaneously adapts the damping following inputs from the LPI.

Enhanced Lamborghini Dynamic Steering (LDS), able to provide higher responsiveness in corners while requiring the lowest steering angles, is now coupled with rear-wheel steering in order to ensure agility at low speed, as well as maximum stability in high-speed cornering and under braking in the most severe conditions.

Processing data in real time, the Huracán EVO recognizes the driver’s intentions through the steering wheel, brake and accelerator pedal inputs, engaged gear and the driving modes selected via ANIMA controller: STRADA, SPORT or CORSA.

In STRADA, the Huracán EVO is agile and capable for driving enjoyment, whereas in SPORT it becomes playful, intuitive and extremely exciting. In CORSA the Huracán EVO is sharp, reactive and exhilarating for the most extreme driving environments, such as racetracks.

A new 8.4-inch HMI capacitive touchscreen, located on the centre console just above the start button, puts connectivity at the driver’s fingertips, with multi-finger gesture control.

Governing car functions including seats, climate and the status of the LDVI system in real-time it also puts all infotainment, such as Apple CarPlay with smartphone integration, at the cabin occupants’ disposal.

The Huracán EVO is presented in Arancio Xanto, an iconic new Lamborghini four-layer colour.

New 20-inch Aesir rims, dedicated to the EVO, are complemented by Pirelli P Zero tyres.

The interior features a dedicated new EVO trim in Alcantara and leather mix, with Arancio Dryope details matching the body tone.

 Davide Sfrecola, Area Manager SEA, Automobili Lamborghini, at the launch of the new Lamborghini Huracan EVO.

"The all-new Huracán EVO combines state-of-the-art vehicle dynamic control to amplify the everyday Huracán driving experience. Lighter, nimbler and much more agile than its predecessor, the Huracán EVO delivers the most responsive and sensory driving experience in every environment," said Area Manager South East Asia at Automobili Lamborghini, Davide Sfrecola.

Also present at the event was Chief Operating Officer of Lamborghini Kuala Lumpur, Marcus Chye.


Causeway, Second Link deserted as border crossing to Singapore shuts down

                JOHOR BARU: The usually congested Causeway is now deserted with not a single vehicle in sight today, the first day the movement restriction order (MCO) goes into effect in the country.

The bridge linking Johor Baru and Woodlands in Singapore is now completely void of traffic as the MCO prohibit the movement of Malaysians and foreigners in and out of the country.

At 10am this morning, not a single vehicle was spotted crossing along the bridge, where usually one would see hour-long jams as people commute to and from work and school.

A similar situation unfolded at the Second Link as a blockade before the Tanjung Kupang Toll has been set up to only allow lorries delivering goods to enter.

Just 10 hours earlier, the traffic at the Bangunan Sultan Iskandar Customs, Immigration and Quarantine Compex was in a gridlock as many tried to beat the midnight deadline when Malaysia closed its borders with Singapore.

Many motorists and motorcyclists, who were turned back, expressed their frustration with the long traffic jams.

Malaysia has imposed cross-border restrictions on commuters beginning today until the end of the month.

Johor Mentri Besar Datuk Hasni Mohammad said the state hopes to reopen the border with Singapore within the next few days.

It would be done with more stringent health checks on both sides of the border, he said.

“We are coming up with a mitigation plan during this Covid-19 outbreak.

“Among the categories exempted are those with work passes by Malaysia or Singapore, students studying in Singapore, those with specialised skills, businessmen, those involved in logistics and others that would be announced soon, ” he added.

A Federal Government Gazette states that those who do not abide by the directives under the MCO can be fined not more than RM1,000 or jailed for not more than six months or both.

The Gazette, dated March 18, titled “Prevention and Control of Infectious Diseases (Measures within the infected local areas) Regulations 2020”, with the authority of the Health Minister Datuk Dr Adham Baba, also stated that if the offence was by a body or a company, the director, manager, secretary or anyone in such a capacity could be charged together or as a separate entity.


Ferrari names Carla Liuni new chief brand officer

Liuni as shown on her LinkedIn page. She will start work in Ferrari from September.
MILAN: Ferrari on Monday named former jewellery executive Carla Liuni as its new chief brand officer as the Italian luxury carmaker pushes ahead with an ambitious strategy launched a year ago to diversify beyond cars.

Liuni's appointment is the latest step in a management reshuffle announced earlier this year by new Chief Executive Benedetto Vigna to streamline the company's structure.

Vigna was in charge of brand diversification on an interim basis after the departure of Nicola Boari, former head of brand expansion, who left as part of the leadership changes.

Liuni's appointment underlines the importance the company places on exploiting its brand. Ferrari has previously said it hoped its so-called brand extension move would account for 10% of profits within a decade.

The Italian company renowned for its Formula One racing team and high-powered sports cars last year launched a wide brand diversification strategy, which includes a regular fashion collection for both men and women. read more

Liuni, most recently chief marketing officer at jewellery group Pandora and prior to that in charge of global marketing and communication at luxury group Bulgari, will start at Ferrari in September and report to Vigna.

Ferrari is due to present its new business plan on Thursday.


Mideast petrolheads hope eSports takes them to the track

                AMMAN: Professional racing requires not only talent, but also support from well-established teams and sponsors who can help cover the hefty costs that go into acquiring and maintaining race cars.

Young people in the Middle East and elsewhere with a passion for the sport have instead been opting for a far more affordable and accessible alternative followed by millions of fans — eSports.

The dimly lit event hall in Jordan's capital was buzzing with excitement this weekend, as the racers at the Toyota Gazoo Middle East and North Africa eSports Cup assumed positions behind simulators, representing 13 countries across the region.

"It's a great experience," said the youngest competitor, 16-year-old Khaled Dashti of Kuwait, encouraging others "to give this kind of racing a try".

Dashti said he would love to swap computer games for the driving wheel.

"My dream is to go into GT racing," he said. "As these games evolve, there will be more opportunities", he added.

'Sport of the future'

One racer who has made the transition is Japan's Yusuke Tomibayashi, a former eSports champion who now competes at Super GT300 races.

At the race in Amman, he said he was "amazed" to see how quickly virtual racing was taking hold in the Middle East.

There as part of a marketing push to illustrate the link between the virtual and real-life sport, he played against Lebanon's Karl Etyemezian — and lost.

Since the 1980s, virtual simulators have given players the chance to feel the rush of driving a race car.

Today, Tomibayashi said the starkest difference is that virtual racing cannot convey how gravity affects real-life drivers as they take the track corners.

Accidents happen and teams must stop to change tyres and refuel like the real thing — save for risks and the smell of fuel and burning rubber.

"It's not only the drivers who get an adrenaline rush, but also the crowd," said Fawaz Dahdal, 28, watching the tournament for the second year in a row.

"It is no longer just a game," he said. "It's the sport of the future."

The races were projected live on a big screen, accompanied by live commentary and shouts of support from a crowd of some 500 fans — with many more watching from home.

"eGames take up a lot of my children's time," said Rana Alyan, who took her son Bakr, 11, to watch the tournament. "But they only practise after they finish their homework."

Millions watching

The racers in Amman were playing "Gran Turismo", endorsed since 2018 and sponsored by the International Automobile Federation (FIA).

Nadim Haddad, head of Jordan Motorsport's eSports department and a member of the FIA eSports Commission, said that Covid lockdowns "contributed to the spread of digital games."

After a national championship organised in 2020, players moved on to a regional cup, he explained.

The first Middle Eastern cup last year drew around 13.8 million viewers online, about 70 percent aged between 18-34, according to figures shared by digital strategy firm APEX.

Over a million people watched the cup from the United Arab Emirates alone.

Applause rang through the hall in Amman as Oman's Mohammed al-Barwani, 34, was declared the winner of this year's tournament on Saturday, qualifying him for the world grand finals.

"I wasn't expecting this victory," Barwani said.

While some of his rivals had accidents, he also attributed his success to a strategy of conserving fuel and tyres.

"We didn't make any mistakes," he said.

Barwani said his goal now is to get into drifting — a motorsport which involves deliberately oversteering the car to slip, skid and spin.

"I started my journey on simulators," he said. "If I get a change in real-life races, I won't miss it."


RX300 Special Edition expands Lexus SUV line-up, priced at RM434K

                PETALING JAYA: Lexus Malaysia announced the availability of the RX300 Special Edition, a new variant of the RX300 model on Friday.

The special edition shares the specifications and equipment of the RX300 Luxury variant but has additional accessories

Priced from RM434,000, inclusive of SST (around RM10,000 more than the RX300 Luxury variant), the RX300 Special Edition has Lexus-genuine accessories which enhance its external appearance as well as provide additional functionality for motoring enjoyment.

At the front end is an additional underbody panel which provides protection from stones and other objects thrown up from the road while along the sides are body mouldings which not only give enhancement to the looks but also add elegance.

The lower side mouldings are integrated with the new one-piece side steps on either side. These steps run along the bottom of the front and rear doors, providing easier movement in an out of the RX300, especially for small children and elderly people.

Custom-designed visors have been installed on the tops of the windows to prevent rainwater from entering the cabin if the glass is wound down slightly. They are shaped to have minimal effect on airflow while allowing the glass to be lowered, if desired, even when there is rain.

Those who often use the rear cargo space will appreciate the step guard which is installed near the lower edge of the rear door opening.

Covering almost the full width of the opening, it provides protection for the upper part of the rear bumper so it will not be scratched or stained when loading or unloading cargo.

And then there's the Welcome Door Lamp which comes on whenever the doors are opened. The lamp illuminates the area near the door so that puddles of water or potholes can be seen and avoided. Additionally, this feature also adds a touch of class with the projection of the Lexus logo on the ground.

Two other accessories included in the RX300 Special Edition are the Touch’n Go reader/transmitter and a Digital Video Recorder (DVR). The Touch’n Go device is compatible with Touch’n Go tollcards and can be used for passage through the SMART TAG lanes at toll plazas nationwide. It offers a neater solution for electronic payment of toll and can be installed inside the cabin.

The DVR is a familiar accessory in many cars nowadays, providing motorists with a way to provide visual evidence in the event of an accident. Unlike the third-party accessories which are usually stuck on the windscreen, the one for the RX300 Special Edition is installed securely behind the rearview mirror.

All the accessories which come with the RX300 Special Edition are Lexus genuine accessories and meet the same high standards of quality and reliability as the rest of the vehicle.

All accessory installation is done by  trained personnel at UMW Toyota Motor’s own Accessories Centre in Bukit Raja, Selangor.

The RX model line currently on sale is the fourth generation of one of the most successful models of the brand.

Six variants are available from Lexus Malaysia, with the RX300 Special Edition being the seventh. All RX300 variants are powered by a turbocharged 2.0-litre 4-cylinder petrol engine (8AR-FTS) which produces 235 ps with 350 Nm of torque. A 6-speed Super Electronically Controlled Transaxle (6 ECT) automatic transmission is standard along with all-wheel drive transmission.

As with all new models sold by Lexus Malaysia, there is a factory warranty of 5 years/Unlimited mileage (whichever comes first after original registration). Complete aftersales support is available at 7 locations in Malaysia (including one in Kuching, Sarawak) where there are technicians who have been well trained to look after Lexus vehicles.


New VW Golf GTI will go on show in Geneva

                WOLFSBURG: Hot on the heels of the 2019 presentation of the eighth-generation Golf, this year Volkswagen is preparing to launch no less than four versions of its legendary compact, starting with the GTI which is to go on show at the Geneva Motor Show to be held from March 5-15.

Autocar reports that under the hood the new-generation Golf GTI will not change much from its predecessor, but will still be equipped with a 2.0-litre turbocharged engine that is available in two versions with 245 hp and 290 hp.

The real innovation could be the deployment of a 48-volt mild hybrid system that can cut fuel consumption, which is increasingly common in Volkswagen Group models. On the level of performance, the new GTI is expected to reach speeds of up to 250kph and accelerate from 0 to 100 kph in less than 6 seconds.

Following on from the Golf GTI, it will be the turn of the Golf GTD (diesel), which may also show in Geneva, the GTE (plug-in hybrid), due out this spring, and the R (sports), at the Festival of Speed in Goodwood, England in July, to be presented in updated versions.


Kia tests US demand for EVs with EV6 SUV

                LOS ANGELES: Hyundai Motor Group’s Kia brand debuted the first of 11 all-electric vehicles to be made over the next five years on a dedicated battery-powered car platform: a crossover sport-utility vehicle that arrives in US showrooms in early 2022.

The South Korean automaker’s new EV6 will jostle with other new electric crossovers including the Mustang Mach-E and Tesla Model Y.

The launch is part of an industry-wide shift towards EVs in anticipation of higher demand and tougher carbon-emissions standards.

Kia Corp currently sells its battery-electric Niro crossover SUV, which starts at about US$40,000, alongside cheaper hybrid gas-electric and plug-in hybrid versions.

The EV6 won’t offer a hybrid option - a sign of confidence Kia buyers are ready to go electric-only.

“In the past, the EV adoption rate has been so low because people like gas-powered engines, the range was so low and people didn’t want to pay the premium,” Russell Wager, vice president of marketing for Kia America, said in an interview Tuesday.

Things are changing - and a recent gasoline shortages due to the Colonial Pipeline Co. disruption could be a tipping point, he said. “Look at what happened in the past couple weeks with the pipeline issue. People are realising maybe they should give it a look.”

Kia’s parent company, which also owns Hyundai Motor Co., last week announced plans to build EVs in the US as part of a US$7.4 billion investment. Those battery-powered vehicles will be made at a Hyundai plant in Montgomery, Alabama. Kia has a factory in West Point, Georgia.

The EV6, which will be made in South Korea, is as long as Kia’s Telluride mid-size SUV and will have more cargo and passenger space than the Niro, Wager said. With DC fast-charging capability, drivers can top up from 10% remaining battery life to 80%, which is enough to go 337km, according to Kia.

When fully charged, the new car - which will cost less than US$60,000 - can go more than 300 miles. Ford Motor Co.’s Mach-E and Tesla Inc.’s Y have maximum ranges just over 480km and start at about US$40,000.

The EV6 is the first new model from Kia’s Plan S, which will bring almost a dozen EVs to market globally.

General Motors Co. plans to sell 30 globally by 2025 and go completely electric by 2035.

Ford has announced three all-electric vehicles, including the Mach-E and that went on sale late last year, and is expected to unveil a more detailed strategy later this month.

Kia’s Wager said the company believes consumers are ready for the coming shift to EVs.

“We’re not going down the road of ‘if the market doesn’t materialise,’” he said. “We’re going down the road of ‘how quickly it materialises.’ This is not a fad.”