Booth babes banished as carmakers tone it down in Geneva

                GENEVA: A year ago, two blondes in skintight silver mini dresses and stiletto heels were stationed at Ssangyong Motor Co.’s display at the Geneva car show.

When the annual event reopens Tuesday, the South Korean manufacturer’s “booth babes” -- as they are known in the industry -- will be gone, replaced by male and female models dressed in sportswear to promote its line up of pick-ups and cars.

Ssangyong isn’t alone in bowing to pressure from the global #MeToo movement against sexual harassment. Larger automakers including Toyota Motor Corp. and Nissan Motor Co. have also said they will cut back on the coquetry in Geneva, marking a potential sea change for an industry that has long pandered to male customers by using attractive women to sell cars.

“Times have changed,” said Sara Jenkins, a Switzerland-based spokeswoman for Nissan, which stopped hiring fashion models for shows last year. “It makes more sense to use product specialists because we’re selling cars.”

Lexus, the luxury brand of the world’s second-biggest carmaker, Toyota, confirmed it’s dropping models altogether at the Swiss event, while Fiat Chrysler Automobiles NV is said to have cancelled contracts with several female models over concern about being criticized on #MeToo. The maker of the Maserati, Jeep and Alfa Romeo nameplates will instead feature men as well as women in less flesh-exposing garb than in previous years, two people with knowledge of the plans said.

 The Maserati stand at the 2015 Geneva show.

This is in sharp contrast with 2017, when Alfa Romeo’s display had women in little black dresses hovering around its Stelvio crossover. Nearby, a brunette with a beehive hairdo and a bottom-grazing sixties-style dress kicked up her red heels next to a Fiat 500. At Lexus, a woman in an off-the-shoulder burgundy gown was stationed beside one of its sedans.

A spokesman for the show said exhibitors are free to choose how they want to present their vehicles. Some may not change tack. That’ll give scope for women to turn to secret signals used in past years, such as tucking hair behind their ears, to get help in fending off overly-eager patrons. The practice was described by one show worker who won’t be in Geneva this year.

The transformation by the biggest players shows the ripple effect the #MeToo movement is having on industries far from its Hollywood roots. The growing backlash has also prompted several European sports events to ditch hostesses working on the sidelines of male-dominated competitions. Formula One in February said it was dropping the hiring of “grid girls,” branding the women in skimpy clothes at odds with modern society.

In the auto industry, the changing customer base is also feeding the trend. The number of women owning cars in Britain jumped 66 percent in the decade through 2016, official figures show, almost triple the rise in for men. In Germany, Europe’s biggest car market, women buy about a third of all new vehicles and in France 37 percent.

Eliminating women as display props isn’t new for some carmakers like Peugeot maker PSA Group. “Visitors to the Geneva auto show will be welcomed on the PSA booth by male and female hosts whose mission will be to inform them,” spokesman Pierre-Oliver Salmon said in an email with a #nocarbabes hashtag attached. “PSA Group won’t convey a degrading image of anyone, neither of women or men.”

Peugeot’s rival Renault SA also says it has banned models for years in Europe preferring “car explainers,” whose appearance didn’t matter as long as they were tall enough to be noticed, a spokesman for the company said.

Even Pirelli, the Italian tyre-maker famed for its sexy calendars, has modified its approach. Its 2018 stand will have models in black pant suits during press days, rather than the skimpy dresses of 2016, a spokesman said.

Lamborghini, the sports car brand owned by Volkswagen AG, said it quit draping women around its Huracans about two years ago and is busy training male and female hosts to explain the vehicle’s features at this year’s Geneva event.


Nissan decides against making Ariya EV in UK over Brexit worries

                YOKOHAMA: Nissan has opted to ship an upcoming electric vehicle to Europe from Japan rather than produce it in the UK, where one of its largest factories faces existential risk from a hard Brexit.

The battery-powered Ariya sport utility vehicle will be made at Nissan’s facility in Japan’s Tochigi prefecture and shipped to Europe and the US from there, the company said today.

While the automaker had considered producing the model in Sunderland in northern England, it has repeatedly warned that its plant there won’t be viable if Britain is unable to reach a trade deal with the European Union.

The decision underlines the risk a no-deal Brexit poses to the already-reeling UK car industry.

New-car registrations plunged 27% last month and are down almost a third this year.

Unless negotiators are able to reach an agreement on new terms of trade before the Brexit transition period ends on Dec 31, vehicles and components will be subject to tariffs that Nissan, BMW AG and Peugeot maker PSA Group have said would be catastrophic for their factories.

Nissan’s Sunderland plant has at times produced more than half a million vehicles a year, though output dropped below 350,000 units last year and will be much lower in 2020.

About 80% of the Qashqai and Juke crossovers and LEAF hatchbacks manufactured there are exported.

The company earmarked £400 million (RM2.18bil) for production of the new Qashqai SUV in Sunderland and has invested most of that already, it said last month.

As Nissan swiftly pushes out new vehicles - 12 fresh models are scheduled in the 18 months through November 2021 - a no-deal Brexit could mean that a greater number of Europe-bound cars are produced outside the UK.

Nissan has stuck with stark warnings about the fate of its Sunderland plant as the deadline for a deal approaches, with chief operating officer Ashwani Gupta maintaining that Brexit-induced tariffs could render the company’s UK business and Sunderland plant unsustainable.

“You take many factors into account when deciding where it is most reasonable to produce a vehicle,” Nissan spokesman Azusa Momose said today.

Nissan hasn’t commented publicly about whether or not it was considering producing the Ariya in the UK, she said.

Japan’s Nikkei newspaper reported Nissan’s decision earlier today.


PICKnGO delivery services now available

                SHAH ALAM: The taxi-oriented ride-hailing app, PICKnGO Sdn Bhd, has announced that its users are now able to book a ride as a delivery service.

The service looks to help business owners and customers pick up their groceries and/or essential items from designated locations.

The company's new service ultimately looks to provide taxi drivers with an additional avenue of income through deliveries.

A customer only needs to book a ride through the application and leave a relevant remark in the message section of the app.

According to the company, the reason for their diversification is that taxi drivers have a tough time to make ends meet.

And with the Movement Control Order having been extended to April 28 from March 18, their earning have dropped significantly with the lack of customers.

The finance ministry stated that taxi and e-hailing drivers are eligible for financial assistance under the new economic stimulus package of a one-off payment for taxi drivers (RM600) and e-hailing drivers (RM500).

Executive director Valerie Chan said that this financial aid is a short-term relief for taxi drivers and may not be able to sustain themselves on their own although they are allowed to work.

“We are also concerned over the widespread transmission of COVID-19 and have advised all our drivers take additional precautions by wearing a facemask while on duty and have hand
sanitizers in their vehicle. We also urge passengers to wear a mask while riding in the taxi," said Chan.

We are also practising contactless and cashless payment system though the app to reduce any physical contact.

Taxis are listed under essential services, hence they are allowed to move around conveniently to offer their service, she added.

“This would enable a natural progression for taxi companies to keep up with the advancements and the changing business landscape in the current e-hailing landscape which has become further challenging due to the given pandemic,” she added.

Chan also reminded taxi drivers not to give up during this tough period and is hopeful that the public could support and provide an opportunity to taxi drivers by utilising their delivery services.

The company said that it has plans to collaborate with other industry players as well to provide food deliveries and courier services to help taxi drivers sustain in the nearest future.


Shell launches new Shell Advance AX7 motorcycle engine oil

KUALA LUMPUR: Shell Malaysia Trading Sdn Bhd has launched two new variants of Shell Advance AX7 semi-synthetic motorcycle engine oil.The new Shell Advance AX7 10W-30 and 15W-50 are both priced at RM33.90 per 1-litre pack (recommended retail price) and complement the existing Shell Advance AX7 10W-40.According to Shell Lubricants Marketing General Manager May Tan, the popular Shell Advance AX7 now offers three viscosity grades.“This enables motorcyclists to choose a premium semi-synthetic engine oil from Shell Advance that best suits their riding needs,” she said.All three grades feature Shell’s proprietary Active Cleansing Technology that provides complete protection for your bike.The new, thicker Shell Advance AX7 15W-50 promises smoother power delivery and better protection for engines that run for long periods under high stress conditions.The new and thinner viscosity Shell Advance AX7 10W-30 provides excellent engine protection and offers better fuel economy, enabling your motorcycle to go for up to 3km further compared to mineral oils.The new products are blended and packed in Malaysia and come with ‘Made for Malaysia’ front labels that identify them as genuine Shell Advance products meant for sale in Malaysia.The new front label can be peeled to reveal a unique QR code for quick product authentication, while the label at the back features product information in English and Bahasa Malaysia.


Ford continues road safety awareness programme

                KUALA LUMPUR: Ford and its local distribution partner, Sime Darby Auto Connexion (SDAC), recently offered safe driver training and road safety awareness to corporate partners and members of the public through Ford’s global Driving Skills for Life (DSFL) programme.

More than 50 licensed drivers from corporate partners comprising telecommunications, highway maintenance and utilities companies participated in a free two half-day workshops at the Malaysia Agro Exposition Park Serdang (MAEPS).

According to the Malaysian Institute of Road Safety Research (MIROS), more than 43% of Malaysian drivers use their mobile phones while driving. This means that close to half of all Malaysian drivers are putting themselves and others in danger while behind the wheel.

As such, Ford and SDAC believe the Ford Driving Skills for Life programme will help drivers be more vigilant while on the road which would in turn, reduce the number of road accidents.

The DSFL workshops aim to address various driver risks, such as dealing with unexpected scenarios, speed and space management as well as raise awareness on distracted driving caused by mobile phone use or tiredness.

“Ford Driving Skills for Life provides Malaysian drivers with the tools and resources needed for safe driving. Road safety is a very serious issue and we take pride in our ability to help reinforce this message among Malaysian motorists,” said Sime Darby Auto Connexion managing director Syed Ahmad Muzri Syed Faiz.

The programme is conducted through a mix of classroom and practical training sessions where drivers are offered hands-on driving experience.

An emphasis on the dangers of driving under the influence of alcohol or medication was also incorporated as part of the programme. This included having participants wear specially designed goggles that help simulate the experience of driving while movement, coordination and alertness are impaired.


BHPetrol first oil company in Malaysia to set up EV chargers at petrol stations

                PETALING JAYA: While it may not have the most number of service outlets nationwide, Boustead Petroleum Marketing (BHPetrol) has taken the lead by being the first to officially launch charging points for electric vehicles (EV) and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEV) at two of its stations.

EV and PHEV owners who visit BHPetrol’s stations in Kg Sg Kayu Ara, Damansara and Sg Besi Harmony, Kuala Lumpur, will be able to charge their vehicles for free.

The charging points are equipped with model Type 2, 3-phase, 22kW fast charger and owners only need to bring their own charging cables.

 From left: BHPetrol managing director Tan Kim Thiam, First Energy Networks director Nicholas Tan, BMW i8 owner Jacky Lim, Renault Malaysia deputy general manager (sales) Wong Hoe Mun and BHPetrol retail senior marketing manager Baba Tan.

“Although our initial phase is to offer charging at two of our outlets, we might extend the service to other outlets if there is increased demand,” BHPetrol managing director K.T. Tan said at the launch of the EV/PHEV charging point at BHPetrol’s Kg Sg Kayu Ara outlet.

For this EV/PHEV charging project, BHPetrol is working with First Energy Networks Sdn Bhd, a fully-owned subsidiary of Tan Chong Group. The two charging points and their installation with cabling works cost a total of RM80,000.

At the launch, BHPetrol also showcased five vehicles which could be charged up at the station - a Nissan LEAF, Renault Zoe, Renault Twizy, Volvo XC90 Twin Engine and BMW i8.

Attendees of the launch event were also treated to Cadbury 5 Star and Vochelle chocolates together with Dequadin pastilles in conjunction with BHPetrol’s 11th anniversary which fell on the same day which was Feb 14.


Carlos Ghosn gets four more years at Renault, takes 30% pay cut

                PARIS: Renault's board backed a new four-year term for chief executive Carlos Ghosn and set up his succession by naming a number two.

"The board decided to propose to renew the mandate of Mr Carlos Ghosn which will be put before the general assembly of shareholder's on June 15," the company said in a statement on Thursday.

However, Ghosn agreed a 30% pay cut in line with government demands, said Finance Minister Bruno Le Maire.

"Now we have the best conditions to prepare for the upcoming general assembly" in June, he added.

Renault praised the "exceptional results" at the alliance of Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi under the Brazilian-born Frenchman of Lebanese origin.

The carmaker is due to report earnings on Friday with analysts expecting net profit to soar to 4.3 billion euros (RM21bil) from the 3.5 billion euros (RM17bil) it earned in 2016.

The board "renewed its full confidence" in chairman and chief executive Ghosn, who took over at Renault in 2005, setting out three priorities for the next four years.

Ghosn was tasked with piloting the "Drive the Future" plan aimed at reaching turnover of 70 billion euros (RM342bil) in 2022 compared with more than 50 billion (RM244bil) in 2016.

He was also urged "to strengthen the succession plan at the top of Renault Group".

The French government did not hide its wish for a Frenchman to be groomed to take over from Ghosn, who will be 64 in March, and supported Thierry Bollore for the job.

Bollore, who joined Renault in 2012, would become deputy chief executive today, Renault said.

The 54-year-old has worked extensively in Asia as well as for tyre maker Michelin.

Among a handful of foreign-born CEOs at Japanese firms, Ghosn earned the nickname Le Cost Killer for his aggressive restructuring at Renault and later the nearly-bankrupt Nissan in the late nineties.

Renault holds 43.4 percent of Nissan, while Nissan 15 percent of Renault and 34 percent of Mitsubishi, where it its the top shareholder. The French state owns 15.01 percent of Renault.

Ghosn handed over the chief executive reins at Nissan last year but stayed on as chairman, in large part to focus more on turning around Mitsubishi, where he is also chairman.

The entire Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi alliance took the mantle of top-selling carmaker last year with 10.6 million vehicles worldwide.


Hyundai and BTS launch 'IONIQ: I'm On It' song

                SEOUL: Hyundai Motor Company and Korean boy band BTS are releasing a new song, “IONIQ: I’m On It,” as part of Hyundai's launch campaign for its EV brand.

BTS’ first music project with Hyundai is available for free download on the brand’s website. The music video will premiere on the company’s YouTube channel on Sept 2.

The brand song “IONIQ: I’m On It” gives voice in line with IONIQ’s goal to offer customer-centric EV experiences centered on connected lifestyle solutions.

READ MORE: Hyundai positions Ioniq brand for electric vehicles

The song’s lyrics—sung and rapped by BTS’s RM, Jin, SUGA, j-hope, Jimin, V, and Jung Kook — express feelings of discovery, curiosity, hope, creativity, and inspiration for the future, affirmed by the refrain "IONIQ takes me there." The music video would feature Hyundai’s latest concept EV Prophecy unveiled in March.

The IONIQ masterplan calls for Hyundai to introduce three new EV models over the next four years with more to follow, including IONIQ 5, a mid-sized CUV, IONIQ 6, a sedan, and IONIQ 7, a large SUV.

Fans who want to further celebrate IONIQ with BTS can take part in an online event for a chance to win a limited-edition cassette tape-shaped music player. The music player contains two tracks – “IONIQ: I’m On It” and individual messages from each member of the band.


MyJPJ app downloaded almost three million times, says JPJ

                KOTA BARU: A total of 2.971 users have downloaded the MyJPJ app and registered themselves since it was introduced on Feb 10, says Road Transport Department (JPJ) director-general Datuk Zailani Hashim.

He said JPJ's effort in promoting the app among vehicle owners was going well.

"Right now we want the public to familiarise themselves with MyJPJ digital and by the middle of this year the application will be upgraded to show and renew their licences," he said at a press conference after a buka puasa event with 40 orphans and the needy, which was also attended by Kelantan JPJ director Mohd Misuari Abdullah, here on Saturday (April 8) night.

"We will use the Smart Management Enforcement Device (SMED) for those who have issues with Internet coverage or don't own a telephone.

"For drivers who have problems displaying their driving licence and digital road tax, we will use the SMED by registering their identity (ID) to access licences and road tax digitally," he said.

Meanwhile, Zailani said leave for its enforcement personnel would be frozen to carry out monitoring duties before, during and after Hari Raya Aidilfitri to ensure road users abide by the road rules to prevent accidents.

He advised road users to plan their trip, especially those returning to Kelantan where congestion is expected to occur in Gua Musang due to a road closure to make way for construction works for the Lingkaran Tengah Utama Expressway.


Millennials in the US are driving less than previous generations

                PARIS: Will the practice of having a car disappear as the younger generations reach adulthood?

While this hypothesis seems unlikely, young people from the generation of Millennials (born between 1981 and 1996) are less likely to own a car than individuals belonging to Generation X (1965 to 1980), according to a new study conducted in the United States.

According to the research, young people born after the 1980s drive 8% less than Generation X and 9% less than those born between 1956 and 1964 (Baby Boomers). Based on data from eight national surveys, the study followed several participants divided into three age groups and counted their daily vehicle miles traveled (VMT) over time.

There are several reasons for this diminishing attraction to steering wheels and pedals. For example, cars are no longer always considered indispensable for fulfilling professional and personal obligations.

As one might expect, this is especially the case among young people living in large cities.
As a result, young urbanites prefer public transportation or active modes of getting around such as walking and biking over driving. According to the study, the average daily vehicle mileage of an American living in an urban area is 38% lower than that of people living outside cities.

"Public policies should be designed to nurture the shifting trend of reduced automobility from the older to the younger generations," the study concludes. The research does not mention any ecological reasons for this diminishing interest in cars, but it can be suggested that the desire to reduce one's carbon footprint and to pollute less also weighs in the balance.

While "car culture" in the US remains strong, this huge difference between the generations already goes back a few years, as several US surveys conducted from 2012 to the present have shown.


Tesla to revamp Asia operations, aims to focus on China

                BEIJING: Tesla Inc. is revamping its organization in Asia to put more focus on China as the company prepares to start manufacturing in the world’s largest electric-car market, people familiar with the matter said.

The company is dismantling its Asia Pacific business unit and forming a new division for Greater China that will cover the mainland as well as Hong Kong, Taiwan and Macau, the people said, asking not to be named as the plan hasn’t been announced publicly. Tom Zhu, who took over as vice president of APAC operations from Robin Ren in 2018, will head the division, they said.

Chief executive officer Elon Musk is betting on China, Tesla’s biggest market after the US, to boost sales and restore investor confidence that has slumped along with the company’s stock this year. Tesla is building a factory in Shanghai that is slated to start operating later this year and bolster competitiveness in a country crowded with hundreds of electric-vehicle rivals.

Zhu will continue to lead the Shanghai factory operation, which he took charge of last year after managing other aspects of Tesla’s China business, including the rollout of its supercharger stations. He will also head sales and training for the country and a number of other teams, the people said. The Asia-Pacific region’s other teams will report to Tesla’s head office in Palo Alto, California, they said.

Tesla representatives in the US didn’t respond to multiple requests for comment. Neither did Musk. A Tesla representative in China directed Bloomberg to the company’s US headquarters. Zhu didn’t respond to several attempts to reach him by phone, and Ren didn’t respond to a text message.

The need for Tesla to expand beyond the US was highlighted by its latest quarterly results, which missed analysts’ projections. The halving of a federal tax incentive for Tesla purchases starting in January dragged on US demand in the quarter, and Tesla struggled to offset that drop by starting deliveries of the Model 3 in Europe and China.


Hamilton v Schumacher: Who is the greatest?

                PARIS: Lewis Hamilton on Sunday won his seventh Formula One world title to equal the all-time record held by Michael Schumacher.

But who is the greatest driver? The British star or the German legend?

The numbers

The statistics show that Hamilton has raced for 14 seasons and has taken part in 264 Grands Prix since 2007 while Schumacher competed for 19 seasons with 307 races in two spells — 1991-2006 and 2010-2012.

In 2020, Hamilton surpassed two other Schumacher records - number of podiums (163 against 155) and victories (94 against 91).

In qualifying, Hamilton has the clear edge with 97 pole positions dwarfing Schumacher's 68.

Schumacher, however, has more fastest laps — 77 to 53.

At the age of 35, Hamilton still appears to have time on his side although he has yet to start negotiations on a new contract with Mercedes.

Statistics can, however, be misleading.

The number of Grands Prix each year has increased over time. In the Schumacher era, there were an average of 16 every season. In Hamilton's time there have been an average of 19.

In the golden age of Juan Manuel Fangio, who won five world titles in the 1950s, there were just eight races in an average world championship.

The talent

For Mercedes technical director James Allison, who worked with both Hamilton and Schumacher, it is their "burning desire" for victory that distinguishes them from "simply very good drivers".

"All the truly great champions probably have more in common than they have differences, in that they are all unusually determined," he said.

"The fact Lewis still cares about winning championships with the same ardour that he had when he was an 18-year-old boy, is what sets him, Michael and the other great champions apart.

"Clearly they were near the front of the queue when God was handing out physical gifts."

But in terms of who is the greatest of the two men, Allison won't be drawn.

"Unless they actually run alongside one another in a car, then you can't properly tell."
All that said, when it comes to pure speed on the track, Hamilton and Schumacher are in the slipstream of the late Ayrton Senna, the world champion on three occasions.

In a recent F1 study using artificial intelligence, it was concluded that Schumacher was 0.114sec slower than the Brazilian while Hamilton was 0.275sec behind.

With three world champions (Fernando Alonso, Jenson Button and Nico Rosberg) as teammates at McLaren and Mercedes, Hamilton has faced fierce internal competition.

His current domination over Valtteri Bottas, on the other hand, is not unlike that of Schumacher's stranglehold over Rubens Barrichello at Ferrari.

Apart from their team-mates, "Michael may have had a little more competition than Lewis", said French driver Romain Grosjean.

The Haas team driver added: "On the track, Michael had some dubious little clashes, with Damon Hill, with Jacques Villeneuve ... Lewis, he has always been class."

The car and the team

Since 2014, Hamilton has driven a Mercedes F1 car which has been a class above all others.

This was also the case for Schumacher with Ferrari between 1999 and 2004.
"When I joined, I was personally able to put my stamp on the car and make a lot of alterations, particularly in 2013," said Hamilton.

Drivers in 2020 also have the benefit of even more sophisticated technical aids and technological improvements.

"Schumacher was driving on his own more or less when he was racing in his car. Hamilton has got God knows who helping him, telling him what his tyre pressure is, speeds through corners," former F1 supremo Bernie Ecclestone told AFP.

"You cannot say anything bad about Lewis, you cannot say he is not good, that is not the point.

"How good he is compared to somebody else? Well, he is super, super talented and would be amongst the top five drivers for the last 30 years.

"Is he better than Michael? Would Michael have been better in that car (Mercedes)? You can't say."


5 reasons to like the 5-door MINI Cooper S

In addition to its desirable looks, CarSifu lists five features that make the Cooper S 5-Door enjoyable.

1.  Go Kart Feeling
Although the MINI’s gotten bigger and subsequently heavier, it hasn’t lost that driving excitement with its sporty front struts and multi-link rear suspension setup. It also has adaptive dampers that adjusts to the driving mode - more compliant in Green mode and stiffer in Sport mode.

2. Easy Entry and Exit
MINI’s definitely grown in size and all we can say is that we’re loving it. Thanks to the larger dimensions, the addition of two more doors means that the front passenger won’t necessarily need to know how to perform the twist when letting passengers in or out.

3.  Practicality
With the added dimensions, there’s more leg-room for rear seated passengers, including clearance for their head and shoulders. Not to mention, there’s more room to manoeuvre and fit a child seat on the rear bench with ISOFIX. Even the boot has gotten more accommodating at 278 litres, but if that’s not enough then fold the rear seats down flat to increase space by 941 litres.

4. More Power
The five-door MINI gets a bigger engine - a 2.0-litre BMW engine that’s capable of 189bhp from 4,700 to 6,000rpm and 280Nm (300Nm overboost) of torque from 1,250rpm onwards, that’s mated to a six-speed automatic transmission and allowing it to dash from standstill to 100kph in 6.8 seconds and onwards to a top speed of 230kph.

5. Lifestyle
Regardless of lifestyle, the MINI somehow finds a way to fit itself into our lives, or better yet it may even help to fill it up, thanks to its joyful driving experience and colourful play of colours, which evidently comes in an array of interesting metallic colours such as Deep Blue, Electric Blue, Thunder Grey, Iced Chocolate and White Silver.

READ ALSO: The full MINI review


Rolls-Royce film has a director

                LONDON: Award winning filmmaker Asif Kapadia, director of box office breaking films Senna and Oscar nominated Amy, is set to direct the story of Rolls-Royce with Martin Scorsese and Anthony Haas as producers of the feature film entitled Silver Ghost.

Asif said, “What struck me when I read Silver Ghost was how this true story weaves together the lives of five remarkable people that changed the destiny of the Western world and I am delighted to be working together with the legendary filmmaker Martin Scorsese and Anthony Haas to bring it to the screen.”

Academy Award winning director Scorsese remarked, "I’ve been captivated by the story of Silver Ghost ever since Lord Richard Attenborough came to me with the project, and I’m thrilled that we’re going to be seeing it through.  It’s a project that requires a great and innovative storyteller, and that’s exactly what we have with Asif Kapadia.”

Developed by the late Academy Award winning director Attenborough and producer Haas, Silver Ghost tells the epic story of the iconic motor car, born out of an extraordinary odd-couple relationship between the maverick genius of Charles Rolls and Henry Royce, marking the genesis of aviation and all the courage and daredevilry that went with it.

Set at the turn of the last century, it delineates the fascinating story of Rolls and Royce and their close friendship with motoring pioneer Lord John Douglas-Scott Montagu, his relationship with his beautiful wife, Cis, and his secret affair with his secretary and mistress, Eleanor Velasco Thornton. Eleanor was the inspiration for the iconic Spirit of Ecstasy mascot, designed by British artist and sculptor, Charles Sykes that to this day adorns all Rolls-Royce cars.

 Eleanor Thornton.

“When Richard Attenborough was asked how he would like to be remembered, he replied ‘as a storyteller,’” said Haas.  “Asif also knows how to tell a deeply personal and epic story and Silver Ghost is an amazing untold tale of the highs and lows of what makes us human.”


Startup UVeye raises US$100mil to use AI to detect tyre pressure, car problems

                SAN FRANCISCO: UVeye, a company that uses artificial intelligence for vehicle inspections, has raised US$100 million (RM445mil) from investors including General Motors Co. and CarMax Inc.

The Series D round was led by Hanaco Ventures, a venture firm based in New York and Tel Aviv, and brings UVeye’s total funds raised to US$200 million, the company plans to announce Tuesday.

The deal values UVeye at about US$800 million, said a person familiar with the matter, who asked not to be identified discussing private information. The company last raised money in 2021 at a valuation of US$300 million to US$500 million, Bloomberg reported.

GM backed the startup through its venture arm, GM Ventures. Other existing investors participating in the round included W.R. Berkley Corp., FIT Ventures and Israeli institutional investors.

UVeye, based in New Jersey and Tel Aviv, provides hardware and software that it says work like an MRI machine for cars.

Its scanners can be used to detect problems like leaks and frame damage, and can conduct fast checks of tyres and tyre pressure.

UVeye has commercial agreements with automakers, dealership groups and used-car auction companies.

The company plans to use the latest cash influx to start production of its inspection systems in North America and to boost sales growth in the US, as well as to expand into new markets.


Works Ministry to take charge of Pan Borneo Highway by September

                KOTA KINABALU: The Works Ministry will take over the Pan Borneo Highway project by September, once matters relating to the abolishment of the delivery partner (PDP) is sorted out.

Works Minister Baru Bian said payments for the project will be made accordingly, once the takeover is complete.

"The state government of Sabah will be in charge of the supervision and implementation of the project," he said during the launching of the Pan Borneo Dashboard application system here on Saturday (June 29).

He said as for the remaining 20 work packages for the Pan Borneo project in Sabah, it will only be carried out in the 12th Malaysia Plan (RMK-12).

On whether individuals especially villagers affected by the Pan Borneo project would be compensated, he said there shouldn't be a problem if both parties can agree on the amounts proposed.

"However, for those who have yet to get their compensations according to the time frame given can come directly to me to enquire," he said.

Funds from the Finance Ministry will be channelled to state governments before they are being released to contractors involved.

Contractors are in charge of paying the compensation to those whose lands are affected by the Pan Borneo Highway project.

However, many are complaining that they have yet to get their promised compensation and are having trouble rebuilding houses as their lands have been taken over for the project.

Earlier in the event, Bian said the launching of the Pan Borneo Dashboard introduced by a concessionaire of the project - Pembinaan Kekal Mewah Sdn Bhd - is a way forward in this digital age.

"With this web application, agencies involved would be able to monitor the progress of the project on a real-time basis without having to be physically present," he said.

He said they will get real-time date, borderless versatility, 3D modelling of the project, acquire dynamic management reports and search for information in its digital library.

"This would definitely save time and improve work competency," Bian said.

Kekal Mewah group director Jeremy Tan said the initiative to introduce this application is to make works for all parties involved more transparent and efficient.

Agencies and parties involved in the implementation, supervising and works related to the project will have access to this application.

"This project is very important to Sabahans, and that is why we feel that this app can really help ensure that works carried out are on time and at par with standards," he said.

Tan said a public feedback forum via the application will be available by mid-July.


Teaser drives of Omoda 5 and Tiggo 8 Pro as Chery makes comeback

                In the run-up to the official launch of its Omoda 5 and Tiggo 8 Pro, Chery Automobile organised a media preview of the sport utility vehicles (SUVs) recently in the leafy neighbourhood of Taman Seputeh, Kuala Lumpur.

Both SUVs come loaded with premium comfort equipment, powerful turbocharged drivetrains and a raft of Advanced Driving Assistant System (ADAS) features.

The five-seater Omoda 5 has a 1.5-litre turbocharged engine, mated to a 9-speed continuously variable transmission (CVT), which produces 156PS and maximum torque of 230Nm at 1,750 to 4,500rpm.

Fuel consumption for the Omoda 5 is rated at 6.9 litres per 100km, according to Chery Automobile.

The Omoda 5 is Chery’s first global model targeted at younger customers.

It adopts a brand-new “Art in Motion” design language featuring a borderless grille, a double-layer sports tail and 18-inch sports rims.

 Tiggo 8 Pro and Omoda 5 (below) dashboards.

Meanwhile, the three-row, seven-seater Tiggo 8 Pro has a 2.0-litre turbocharged engine, mated to a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT), producing 256PS and maximum torque of 390Nm at 2,000 to 4,500rpm.

Fuel consumption for the Tiggo 8 Pro is rated by Chery Automobile at 7.4 litres per 100km.

The leather-clad cabins of both SUVs look plush, with smooth, polished surfaces and soft-touch materials that exude a premium ambience.

The Omoda 5 has a sunroof with a manual sunshade, while the Tiggo 8 Pro has a large powered panoramic sunroof.

We were told by a Chery executive that both SUVs have thicker sound-dampening glass for a more refined driving experience.

Both SUVs have a curved co-joined dual screen on the dashboard (20.5-inch screen in the Omoda 5 and 24.6-inch screen in the Tiggo 8 Pro), consisting of a touchscreen for vehicle settings and multimedia functions, as well as a digital display screen behind the steering wheel for vehicle and driving data.

Air-conditioning controls are also via a touchscreen panel, next to the engine start-stop button.

Features include wireless charging for smartphones, an eight-speaker Sony audio system, and Apple Carplay and Android Auto with voice commands.

The Omoda 5 and Tiggo 8 Pro offers 17 and 12 ADAS features respectively.

 Omoda 5.

ADAS features include adaptive cruise control (ACC) to maintain a safe following distance, Traffic Jam Assist (TJA) for safer driving on congested roads, ICA (integrated cruise assist), Blind Spot Assist, Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA), a 360-degree view camera system, lane change assist, lane departure warning, lane departure suppression, emergency lane keeping, forward collision warning, and automatic emergency brake.

LED headlamps and rear lights are standard.

Both cars have the Cerence voice recognition system, which enables convenient and quick control of multimedia functions and air-conditioning.

The SUVs will be locally assembled at Sime Darby Bhd’s facility, Inokom, in Kulim, Kedah.

First impressions

The Omoda 5 which will compete against the likes of the Proton X50 and Honda HR-V, is certainly the more distinctive looking with its borderless front design and diamond matrix grille, split headlights, T-shaped LED daytime running lights and dynamic fastback shape.

The motoring media had a very short drive in both SUVs which included a brief but steep uphill climb.

We noted that the test drive unit of the Omoda 5 had GitiComfort F50 tyres sized 215/55 wrapped around 18-inch wheels.

With two occupants in the SUV, we slowed nearly to a standstill to make a tight left turn into the steep uphill road, and after a bit of hesitation, as we stepped hard on the accelerator pedal, the Omoda 5 easily sprinted up the hill.

However, when driving downhill, the brakes felt soft and needed a longer pedal travel for more stopping power.

 Tiggo 8 Pro.

Meanwhile, the Tiggo 8 Pro is likely to compete with Proton X90, Mazda CX-8, Volkswagen Tiguan Allspace, Nissan X-Trail and Peugeot 5008.

It also has a striking exterior design, with a three-dimensional grille featuring chrome “stars in a black sky”.

Step inside, and we liked the premium-looking interior fitted with brown leather seats covered in a diamond-stitched pattern and Burmester-styled audio speaker covers.

The test drive unit of the Tiggo 8 Pro had Cooper Evolution CTT tyres sized 235/50 wrapped around 19-inch wheels.

On the same steep uphill road, the Tiggo 8 Pro’s abundant power and torque made the climb quite effortless.

A slight niggle for us was a lag in response on the display screen which caused us to scroll past the drive mode (Eco, Normal and Sport) we selected when using the rotary dial to switch between the three drive modes.

Perhaps a software update can fix this.

We had the chance to check out the Tiggo 8 Pro’s ride quality in a stone-strewn unpaved area and noted that there was remarkable ride comfort as we drove over the uneven terrain.

The ride felt quite well cushioned, and the suspension did a great job of soaking up impacts and bumps on unpaved surfaces.


Ford headlight tech helps keep drivers’ eyes on the road

                LONDON: Head-up displays have for some time enabled drivers to stay focussed on the way ahead.

But now Ford engineers are trialling new headlight technology that could help ensure those behind the wheel literally keep their eyes on the road.

The new technology can project directions, speed limits or weather information onto the road so the driver’s gaze can remain fixed on the way ahead.

Night-time can be riskier for driving. In the UK, 40 per cent of collisions happen in darkness, even though there are far fewer people driving than in the daytime.

This risk is increased whenever a driver takes their eyes off the road. A vehicle travelling at 90kph covers 25 metres per second, meaning even a short glance at the navigation on the in-car screen can result in “driving blind” for 10 metres or more.

On an unlit road, this could potentially mean missing an important sign or a bend in the road.

Ford, however, has given a disclaimer on the experimental tech, saying that different countries may have different regulations on projecting images onto the road.

It said, however, that projecting information onto the road using high-resolution headlights could benefit other road users too.

For example, a crosswalk could be projected onto the road, both for the view of the driver and the pedestrian, in situations where the existing road markings are faded or unclear. Other possibilities include showing a path for the driver to follow to ensure cyclists are passed at a safe distance.

The technology could provide the driver with information about changes in weather, such as snow falling, fog, slippery conditions, or an icy road ahead.

Connecting the headlight to the navigation system could display upcoming turns, while the width of the vehicle could be projected onto the road, helping the driver to judge whether the vehicle will fit through a gap or into a parking space.

“What started as playing around with a projector light and a blank wall could take lighting technologies to a whole new level," said Lars Junker, features and software, Advanced Driver Assistance Systems, Ford of Europe.

"There’s the potential now to do so much more than simply illuminate the road ahead, to help reduce the stress involved in driving at night. The driver could get essential information without ever needing to take their eyes off the road.”


Honda Thailand announces facelifted Mobilio

                BANGKOK: Honda Thailand has introduced more advanced interior and exterior designs to the facelifted Mobilio in an intensified move to attract the urban crowd.

It’s equipped with more comfort features and advanced safety standards including a spacious passenger cabin and roomy utility space that supports various functional uses

It has a newly-designed front grille; sportier headlights with LED position lamps; newly-designed 15-inch alloy wheels; spacious and comfortable passenger cabin; and a newly-designed front console. In addition, comfort features added include self-illuminating meters with multi-information display; automatic air conditioning system; Honda smart key system; and a one push ignition system, plus a 6.1-inch touchscreen audio system that provides a HDMI port for audio and video connections.

The Mobilio is based on the versatile A-segment Brio platform that has spawned a hatch, a sedan, and an SUV.

The new Mobilio was developed to support a variety of functional uses. It comes in two 7-seater variants with three rows of seats, where the third row of seats is a 50:50 split folding type which maximizes cargo space. There is also a 5-seater variant with two rows of seats, where the second row of seats is a 60:40 split one-motion fold-and-tumble type, with a cargo floor board and storage compartment under the second-row seats to provide maximum storage for various uses.

It is powered by a SOHC 1.5L i-VTEC 4-cylinder engine that produces 117hp at 6,000 rpm and 146Nm of torqueat 4,700 rpm. The engine is E85-compatible. The Mobilio is available with a new continuously variable transmission (CVT) built upon Honda's Earth Dreams Technology that promises optimum acceleration with better fuel economy. Standard safety equipment for all Mobilio variants includes the G-Force Control, or G-CON, safety body frame that helps secure the cabin against collisions from any direction; dual SRS front airbags; Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA); Hill Start Assist (HSA); Anti-lock Braking System (ABS); Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD); and a rearview camera.

The RS variant is the sportiest and comes equipped with RS accessories including a “Gloss Black” front grille; newly-designed multi-reflector headlights with LED position lamps; fog lights; sporty front and rear bumpers; side sill garnish; exhaust pipe finisher; rear spoiler with a LED high-mounted brake light; newly-designed 15” alloy wheels; and an RS emblem on the front grille and tailgate.

The Mobilio is available in three variants: the S variant, which comes with a two-row seat configuration (five seats) at 659,000 baht (RM83,000); the V variant, which comes with a three-row seat configuration (seven seats) at 699,000 baht (RM88,000); and the RS variant, which comes with a three-row seat configuration (seven seats) at 763,000 baht (RM96,000).

Five colours are available: Phoenix Orange Pearl, Crystal Black Pearl, Silver Lunar Metallic, Taffeta White and White Orchid Pearl.

Over in Malaysia, the long expected facelifted Jazz is expected to create a stir following sightings of the new hatch on local roads by several auto sites. Honda Malaysia is expected to announce pre-bookings for the upcoming Jazz later this week.


2017 New York Auto Show: The Dodge Demon emerges

                NEW YORK: After a month-long series of video teasers, the most powerful series production American muscle car in history is ready to impress its public.

The 2018 Dodge Challenger SRT Demon is so potent that it is essentially a collection of automotive superlatives with a wide, Nitto street-legal drag radial tyre at each corner. It boasts a 6.2-litre Hemi V8 with a massive supercharger bolted to it. This lifts boost pressure to 14.5psi, and in doing so, sends a gigantic 840hp and 1,047Nm of torque to the rear wheels. Those figures alone make this the most powerful production V8 currently on the market.

However, that's just the start. That engine catapults the Demon from 0-100kph in a record-breaking 2.3 seconds. It can hit 48kph in 1 second and has been independently certified by the National Hot Rod Association as the fastest-ever production car over the quarter mile — 9.65 seconds and a 225kph top speed in the process.

"With Demon, our goal was to build a car that would tattoo the Dodge logo into the subconscious of the general market, beyond even our loyal enthusiasts, said Tim Kuniskis, Head of Passenger Cars - Dodge, SRT, Chrysler and Fiat, FCA North America. "To do so, we had to set records that have never been set before, do more than has ever been done before, go beyond even the legendary Hellcat."

And that's not hyperbole. During development, it set a Guinness World Record as the first production car to pull a 89cm wheelie on take-off. And to prevent mechanical meltdown, the Demon also uses a liquid-to-air intercooler to stop the engine and supercharger overheating.

Ir's also the first production car with a secondary cooling system that kicks in when the car has stopped, bringing the components in the supercharger and block down to safe operational temperatures in time for the next run.

Keeping all of this performance in check is a transmission brake. Rather than melt the disc brakes trying to hold revs before a race, the car can build up power in the engine while locking the transmission output shaft. So the power outputed by the engine doesn't go to the rear wheels.

However, all of this performance comes at a cost — to comfort at least.

Dodge has had to jettison all passenger seats, the soundproofing, carpeting, the stereo system and speaker system among other things, to cut the car's weight by 90kg.

What's more, though it will still impress on standard pump petrol, to get the very best out of the car's engine, it will need to be fuelled by 100+ unleaded high-octane fuel, which can be hard to come by.

Still, since Dodge knows some buyers will want to use the car beyond the track, each seat can be reinstalled as a US$1 option.

The Demon is a single production year car and just 6,000 examples are planned — 3000 for the US and a further 3000 for Canada. First deliveries will begin in the fall.


Ben Sulayem makes history in succeeding Todt as FIA chief

                PARIS: Mohammed ben Sulayem, who became the first non-European to be elected president of the International automobile Federation (FIA) on Friday, has committed "to develop motorsport" in China and India.

The 60-year-old Emirati gained 61.62 percent of the votes cast compared to 36.62 percent for his sole rival Britain's Graham Stoker.

The former rally driver replaces Jean Todt, who stands down after 12 years at the helm.

"I wish to express my gratitude in the name of the FIA and that of its members to Jean Todt for all that has been achieved over the past 12 years," said Sulayem in a statement.

"I am committed to pursuing the important work and make motor sport and mobility take further steps forward."

Ben Sulayem, from Dubai, has been campaigning for several months as the non-establishment candidate against Stoker who was Todt's right hand man.

He has vowed to modernise the FIA and make it more transparent.

In his manifesto, he promised an outside audit of the governance, and an evaluation of finances plus budget reports and transparency over their finances.

"We can never say that our governance is sufficient, we must always improve, otherwise we are lost," he said in a press conference after the vote.

"Our rules can always be improved."

'Diversity'

Sulayem also committed to expanding motorsports into countries where participation remains low.

"It is also important to develop motorsport. We must not only rely on the top sport but also on its base, members, clubs," he said.

"I always take, as an example, the two largest countries in the world, China and India.

"We are talking about fewer than 8,000 competition licenses for 2.8 billion (inhabitants). And you have places like Finland that have over 11,000!

"There is something wrong. For me, that is one of the main topics. It is not easy but it is doable.
"Diversity is also very important. If we are to grow and gain trust, we need to make sure that we respect diversity and inclusion."

Ben Sulayem, 14 times the Middle East rally champion, was supported by most of his region, which is becoming increasingly influential in motor sport.

The United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain and Qatar - who broke ranks to vote for Stoker - all hosted Formula One Grand Prix in 2021.

"No one can come to the Gulf and ignore motorsport," said Sulayem.

"It is a good thing for sport, for Formula 1 and rally-raid. It will help the FIA to develop but it does not mean that we will forget the other regions.

"And we talk all the time about F1 but we cannot forget the other disciplines.

"We have to look at the World Rally Championship. Having two-and-a-half manufacturers in such an important championship is not enough."

Todt has completed three four-year mandates with the 75-year-old Frenchman and former Ferrari boss proud of his legacy especially his belief that they have made the sport safer.

He is also pleased with the creation of several other motorsport championships.

"We created the Formula E championship, an endurance world championship with a new elite category, and a rally-raid world championship which begins next year in Dakar," he said.


Uber's carpool pricing strategy revealed by Chicago fare data

 An Uber pick-up location is pictured in San Diego. — Reuters
CHICAGO: How much ride-hailing companies Uber and Lyft charge customers throughout a day is one of the most closely held secrets in Silicon Valley.

But a law in Chicago requiring the companies to disclose fare data shines a light on how at least one of the former “unicorns” is trying to turn a profit for the first time.

A Reuters analysis of the data shows fares for shared rides in the city have risen significantly over the past year, while fares for single riders have remained stable.

The price increases for shared rides predominantly affect Chicago’s low-income neighborhoods, which is where most of the carpool rides are booked, the analysis showed. Over this period of increased fares, carpool ridership fell.

The Chicago data does not differentiate between rides operated by Uber Technologies Inc, Lyft Inc, or smaller ride-share rival Via. Data by Second Measure, which tracks credit card expenditures, estimates that Uber commands a roughly 72% market share in Chicago. The data also does not indicate whether similar strategies are being rolled out in other cities.

The fare changes in Chicago show an attempt to reduce discounts for customers in order to help convince investors that ride-hailing can be a profitable business model.

But the shift comes with political risks, as cities from Chicago to London take ride-hailing companies to task over congestion, driver treatment and passenger rights. On Monday, regulators in London stripped Uber’s license for the second time in just over two years, pending an appeal, over a “pattern of failures” on safety and security.

After reviewing the findings from the Chicago data, Uber said it has traditionally seen losses in its shared Pool rides segment. Earlier this month, chief executive Dara Khosrowshahi said Uber was “losing significant sums” due to heavy discounts on those rides.

“We want Pool to be available to as many people and in as many cities as possible, and to do that it has to be financially sustainable for years to come” through measures including pricing and better algorithms to find more pool riders, an Uber spokesman said.

Lyft declined to comment on its pricing strategy, but said shared rides have increased access to affordable and reliable transportation, particularly in neighborhoods under served by public transit and passed over by taxis.

Lyft said that given Uber controls nearly two-thirds of the Chicago market, the data most closely reflected Uber’s strategy, and noted its own data did not show a decrease in shared rides.

Via, the smallest Chicago player almost exclusively focused on shared rides with an estimated 1% market share, also declined to comment on pricing but said its own interpretation of the Chicago data was consistent with the analysis.

“In city after city, we have seen that there is far more price sensitivity with pooled rides than with private, single passenger ones,” Via said, adding that it was crucial for fees and taxes on shared rides to stay low in order to decrease congestion.

Chicago mayor Lori Lightfoot has proposed taxes on ride-hailing services to combat congestion, by increasing the tax for solo trips and lowering taxes on shared rides. She also is pushing a new surcharge of US$1.75 on weekday rides in the downtown area.

Chicago’s city council is scheduled to vote on the 2020 budget, which includes the congestion tax, on Tuesday.

Uber and Lyft, which have supported congestion taxes in New York and other cities, are fighting Lightfoot’s congestion proposal, calling it unfair for not including regular taxi services and disproportionately hurting lower-income residents.

They also said Lightfoot’s measure helps some of the city’s richest parts in the north, dominated by white residents, while hurting predominantly black and Hispanic residents on the South and West Side.

Lightfoot, Chicago’s first female African-American mayor, has rejected those claims, accusing Uber of stirring up racial tensions in opposition to the proposal.

Uber and Lyft put forward an alternative taxation plan that was rejected by the city as doing too little to ease downtown congestion. Uber in a statement said it wished Chicago would remove fees on shared rides altogether.

The Reuters analysis of more than one million Chicago rides between January and September 2019 - the only full quarters for which the city currently makes data available - found that fares per mile increased 13% for shared rides. But they remained unchanged for private rides.

Shared rides fell to about a third of all rides in a group of the least affluent neighborhoods of Chicago in the third quarter from about half of rides in the first.

Presented with Reuters’ pricing analysis, city representatives said they interpreted the data as an attempt by the companies to change customer behavior.

“We have real concerns about the claims these companies make because actually they’re the ones causing the pain to the communities in terms of cost, not the mayor’s plan,” said Rosa Escareno, Chicago’s Commissioner of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection who led the congestion policy.

Uber declined to directly comment on the city’s allegations, but said it made no sense that passengers in a solo taxi ride downtown will pay no tax while those taking a shared trip far from downtown will.

Lyft said the mayor “is attempting to distract from what her plan will do: backtrack on her campaign promises and raise the cost of transportation in Chicago for communities who can least afford it.”


May 2-8: Fuel prices unchanged

                PETALING JAYA: Fuel prices for the next one week will remain the same as those last week.

The prices of RON97 and RON95 will remain at RM1.55 per litre and RM1.25 per litre respectively from May 2 until May 8, according to the Finance Ministry.

The price of diesel will remain at RM1.40 per litre.

"The government will continue to monitor the impact of global crude oil price changes and will take appropriate measures to ensure the welfare and well-being of the people," the ministry said in a statement on Friday (May 1).

The weekly fuel pricing mechanism was reintroduced on Jan 5 last year under the Automatic Pricing Mechanism (APM).

Under this system, fuel prices are announced every Friday and remain in force for one week.


Ghosn slams 'backstabbing' former Nissan colleagues in video address

Ghosn in his first video address since his arrest. — Reuters
TOKYO: A defiant Carlos Ghosn accused “backstabbing” former colleagues of conspiring to oust him as Nissan chairman and threatening the Japanese automaker’s future, in a video marking his first public address since his initial arrest last year.

Prosecutors took the highly unusual step of re-arresting Ghosn on Thursday on fresh allegations that he used company funds to enrich himself by US$5 million. The once-feted executive, who had been out on US$9 million bail for 30 days, recorded the video the day before he went back to jail.

In the video, shown to reporters by his lawyers here, the former Nissan Motor Co chairman said he was the victim of selfish rivals bent on derailing a closer alliance between the automaker and French partner Renault.

“This is not about greed or dictatorship, this is about a plot, this is about a conspiracy, this is about a backstabbing,” Ghosn said. “I am innocent of all the charges that have been brought against me,” he said, without explaining further.

Wearing a dark jacket and a white shirt, Ghosn sat at a desk with his hands folded as he looked into the camera and spoke in a calm voice. His hair appeared greyer and his face thinner than before his first arrest in November.

The video, and comments by his lawyer Junichiro Hironaka alleging harsh treatment by prosecutors against Ghosn and his wife Carole, cast Ghosn as the victim of internal rivalries and a Japanese judicial system bent on forcing a confession.

The seven-minute clip was, however, edited by his legal team to remove the names of people Ghosn accused of treachery due to legal concerns.

The conspiracy, Ghosn said, was born out of fear that he would bring Nissan closer to Renault, also its top shareholder.

“There was fear that the next step of the alliance in terms of convergence and in terms of moving toward a merger, would in a certain way threaten some people or eventually threaten the autonomy of Nissan,” he said.

Ghosn also took aim at Nissan’s current management, blaming them for three profit warnings and a domestic scandal involving improper vehicle inspections since his departure as CEO in 2017.

The lack of leadership is “very sickening”, Ghosn said.

Physical, mental pressure

Ghosn’s second stint at the Tokyo detention centre comes after he served 108 days following his first arrest last year.

Prosecutors are acting in a “cruel way” and putting him under intense physical and mental pressure to get a confession, Hironaka told reporters.

A spokesman at the Tokyo prosecutors office said she was unaware of Hironaka’s comments and declined to comment.

Hironaka has previously criticised the move by prosecutors to confiscate Ghosn’s belongings, including his mobile phone and trial documents, along with the mobile phones and Lebanese passport of his wife, Carole, who was present when prosecutors entered their home early in the morning last Thursday.

The lawyer said on Tuesday that Ghosn’s wife, who left Japan last week, did so out of concern for her own safety, adding she intended to ask the French government to help her husband.

But, France’s finance minister said political interventions might not be the best way to help Ghosn.

The case has rocked the global auto industry and also shone a harsh light on Japan’s judicial system, which critics refer to as “hostage justice” as defendants who deny their charges are often not granted bail.

Under Japanese law, prosecutors are able to hold suspects for up to 22 days without charge and interrogate them without their lawyers present.

Ghosn has been charged with under-reporting his Nissan salary for a decade and of temporarily transferring personal financial losses to Nissan’s books. However, the latest allegation is potentially more serious, as it could show he used company funds for his own purposes.


Sinkhole appears near bridge in Klang

                KLANG: A 10m-wide sinkhole that appeared near the Sungai Teluk Menegun bridge along Jalan Kebun here on Monday has disrupted traffic.

The sinkhole is believed to have been caused by soil erosion from the waters of the river beside the bridge.

According to a report issued by the Klang Public Works Department, repairs will take about a week and the road will be fully closed to traffic.

“This is one of the main arteries in the neighbourhood and I hope that motorists will take alternative routes, ” said Sentosa assemblyman G. Gunaraj who was at the scene earlier.

He added that motorists would have to use residential roads instead.

The road closure will affect residents in Kampung Jawa, Teluk Menegun, Taman Maznah, Taman Klang Indah, Kampung Miskin, Taman Emas, Desa Latania, Bt.4 and Golden Villa.

Motorists from Klang town to the Bukit Kemuning roundabout and vice versa can use Jalan Raja Nong and Jalan Sungai Jati.


Audi deepens collaboration with Chinese tech groups

                INGOLSTADT: Volkswagen's luxury car unit Audi has agreed to deepen collaboration with Chinese internet technology groups to offer more digital services in the world's largest car market.

Audi and FAW-Volkswagen, VW's joint venture with FAW Car Co Ltd, have signed letters of intent with Alibaba, Baidu and Tencent, Audi said on Sunday. Financial terms were not disclosed.

Parent Volkswagen has been hobbled by a scandal over the rigging of emissions tests, distracting it in a race with global carmakers to develop computer-aided services for drivers.

VW's CEO told a newspaper on Sunday that it has to remain in control of its relationship with car users, which is why it stopped talks with US ride-hailing service Uber and technology giants Google and Apple.

Under the agreement with online search company Baidu, Audi aims to improve the use of smartphone apps in its cars.

Its projects with social network and online gaming group Tencent include helping drivers to make better use of the WeChat communication app.

The alliance with Alibaba aims to develop more real-time traffic news services and 3D maps.

VW in May took a US$300 million stake in smaller ride-sharing company Gett.


New Infiniti QX60 and Q50 previewed

DETROIT: Infiniti has revealed details on enhancements to two key models – the 2016 Q50 sports sedan and 2016 QX60 premium crossover – at a media preview prior to their appearance at the upcoming North American International Auto Show.

Infiniti Americas vice president Randy Parker announced the availability of three new turbocharged engines for the Q50, including an advanced 400-horsepower 3.0-litre twin-turbo V6, and debuted the QX60 with restyled exterior and interior designs and improved driving dynamics.

"Along with the enhancements to our two best-selling vehicles, the Q50 and QX60, 2016 will see the arrival of the QX30 crossover lineup and the all-new Q60 sports coupe."

The 2016 Infiniti Q50 receives three new engines, starting with a 400-hp 3.0-litre twin-turbo high-output V6. Offering the highest standard horsepower in class (non-specialty version), the engine is the most advanced V6 ever offered by Infiniti. Key engine features include a compact, lightweight aluminum-alloy engine block and cylinder heads, Gasoline Direct Injection (DIG™) system, optimized turbine blade design, turbine speed sensor, electronic wastegate actuator, water-cooled engine charging, e-motor valve timing control and an integrated exhaust manifold.

In addition to the 400hp configuration, which will be available in a new Infiniti Q50 Red Sport 400 model beginning in early spring 2016, a 300-horsepower version will be available across the Q50 lineup in late spring. The new VR-series engine family replaces the award-winning Infiniti 3.7-litre VQ-series V6, which has been the industry gold standard for many years.

"The Q50 has been the heart of our Infiniti lineup since it was introduced two years ago. So now it's only appropriate that we get Q50 drivers' hearts beating a little faster with these advanced VR-series engines," added Parker.

Other performance-intensifying enhancements to the Q50 Red Sport 400 include a Dynamic Digital Suspension, new, rack-mounted electronic power steering or an updated version of Infiniti's available, Direct Adaptive Steering and staggered 19-inch aluminium-alloy wheels.

The third new powerplant added to the Q50 lineup is a 208hp 2.0-litre turbo inline 4-cylinder engine developed with Daimler and produced at Infiniti's new engine plant in Decherd, Tenn. It will be offered in base and Premium Q50 2.0t models beginning in late winter. Also available then is the Q50 Hybrid, featuring a 3.5-litre gasoline-electric hybrid system with a net 360hp rating.

While the new Q50's enhancements are found mostly under the hood, the changes to the QX60 crossover are more apparent.

The redesigned exterior now features a new Q50-style front end and taillights, along with new wheel designs. Inside, the interior has been updated with new trim materials, seat quilting and a new gearshift lever.

The QX60 also adds to its advanced safety technology with Forward Emergency Braking (FEB) with pedestrian detection – a first for Infiniti and the brand's exclusive Predictive Forward Collision Warning (PFCW) system. Additional details will be available closer to when the QX60 arrives in Infiniti showrooms in late 2016.

Infiniti will also be displaying the new Q60 sport coupe at the Detroit show.


VW Arteon on display this weekend

                PETALING JAYA: Malaysians will get to see the Volkswagen Arteon at the Setia City Convention Centre in Shah Alam this weekend.

You may recall the fastback model made its regional appearance at the 2018 Singapore Motor Show in January. It has since gone on sale in the republic, with the Arteon R-Line 2.0 TSI priced at S$221,400 (inclusive of COE, RM670,000).

First seen during the Geneva Motor Show in 2015 in the form of a sport coupe concept GTE, the Arteon is positioned above the Passat and is produced at the German plant in Emden - using the company's modular transverse matrix (MQB) vehicle platform.

Key design elements of the Arteon include its new front end, in which the LED headlights and daytime running lights merge with the chrome-plated crossbars of the radiator grille and the bonnet. The car’s striking shoulder section is another defining feature of its design.

Engine choices are a 2.0L TSI petrol engine with two outputs (280bhp/190bhp); a 2.0L TDI diesel engine with three outputs (240bhp/190bhp/150bhp). For an even more economical ride, the Arteon is also offered with a 1.5L TSI petrol engine that produces 150bhp. Both diesel and petrol engines are mated to a 7-speed DSG dual clutch transmission, with a 6-speed manual gearbox reserved for the base variants.

A shooting brake (wagon) version of the Arteon fastback is in the works.

Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia said in a brief statement today that it will be "showcasing the Arteon", without saying if or when the car may appear in showrooms. Local availability, of course, is subject to whether it can lock down a competitive pricing.

The Arteon is the successor to the Phaeton, which turned out to be a market flop. VW stopped making the Phaeton in 2016 after a 14-year run, and replaced it with the Arteon, a car that costs more than the mid-sized Passat sedan and wagon but isn’t positioned too far above the brand’s usual mass-market segment.

The Arteon was part of a general product overhaul to revive profit as Volkswagen continued to pay the price over the fallout from the diesel-emissions cheating scandal that began in 2015.


Indonesia plans fuel price hike to control ballooning subsidies, reports its media

                JAKARTA: Indonesia plans to hike fuel prices to control ballooning energy subsidies, media reported on Monday, citing comments from the country's energy minister.

The price hike will be complemented with rules on subsidised fuel sales that will be issued this month, Energy Minister Arifin Tasrif was quoted as saying by several local media, including news website Bisnis.com.

Officials at the country's energy, finance and economics ministries did not respond to Reuters' request for comment.

State energy firm Pertamina, which sells subsidised fuels, declined to comment, saying fuel price policy was the government's domain.

Indonesia has tripled its energy subsidy budget to 502 trillion rupiah (RM152bil) this year to keep prices of subsidised gasoline and diesel and some power tariffs unchanged amid rising global energy prices.

Last week, finance ministry officials said that amount may not be sufficient due to rising fuel demand.

Pertamina said as of July it had sold 9.9 million kilolitres of subsidised diesel, about two thirds of the total quota for the year, while sales of subsidised gasoline had reached 16.8 million kilolitres, or 73% of 2022's quota.

President Joko Widodo, in recent public appearances, has mentioned this year's energy subsidy allocation is too large, but has not referred to any plan to hike fuel prices.

The central bank has said the large subsidy budget has helped Southeast Asia's biggest economy keep inflation relatively low this year, providing monetary policymakers room to delay interest rate hikes. Bank Indonesia is one of a few Asian central banks that has not lifted its benchmark rate from pandemic era levels.

Said Abdullah, a senior member of the president's political party, the Indonesian Democratic Party of Struggle (PDI-P), told Reuters fuel prices should be raised twice this year to manage the increasing fiscal burden, suggesting the first hike be made by late August.

The government should also increase spending on support for the poor to help them cope with the impact of the price hikes, Abdullah, who heads parliament's budgetary committee, said.


Self-driving startup Aurora to buy lidar company Blackmore

                SAN FRANCISCO: Self-driving car startup Aurora Innovation Inc said on Thursday it would buy Montana-based Blackmore, a company that develops a detection system known as lidar, used in self-driving technology.

Aurora is among dozens of automakers and large technology companies working on self-driving car systems, and has partnerships with Byton, Hyundai Motor Co and Volkswagen to develop and test self-driving systems.

With the notable exception of Elon Musk’s Tesla Inc , most automakers have said their self-driving cars will rely on lidar.

The technology uses laser light pulses to render precise images of the environment around the car and is currently used by companies including General Motors Co, Ford Motor Co and Alphabet Inc’s Waymo.

“Lidar is critical for developing the safest and most reliable self-driving system, one that can navigate our roads more safely than a human driver,” said Aurora’s chief executive officer Chris Urmson, who earlier led Alphabet’s self-driving program.

Toyota Motor Corp has partnered with several lidar startups, including Blackmore and Luminar, but the Japanese automaker continues to evaluate new sensing technologies.

Last week, Nissan Motor Co Ltd said it would, for now, stick to self-driving technology which uses radar sensors and cameras, avoiding lidar because of their high cost and limited capabilities.


Aston Martin hypercar christened Valkyrie

                LONDON: The hypercar being co-developed by Aston Martin and Red Bull Advanced Technologies, formerly identified by its codename AM-RB 001, has now been officially named the Valkyrie.

The name continues a tradition of Aston Martin ‘V’ cars. This began back in 1951 with Vantage, which was selected as a name to distinguish high performance variants of the then current model, the DB2. Boasting 125bhp versus 105bhp for the standard engine, the Vantage represented a significant increase in performance and desirability. The first time the Vantage badge appeared was on the side of the DB5.

It remained a name reserved for the most potent model derivatives until 2005, when the Vantage became a model line in its own right. Twelve years later the acclaimed family of V8 and V12-powered models has made the Vantage the most successful model in Aston Martin’s history.

Virage, Vanquish and the Aston Martin Vulcan - Aston Martin’s very own God of fire - are more recent ‘V’ cars to continue this lineage. Now, seven decades after the Vantage name started it all, the Aston Martin Valkyrie propels this uniquely distinctive and lyrical family of model names to another level.

“Aston Martin model names have deep meaning," said Aston Martin chief creative officer Marek Reichman.

"They need to inspire and excite. To tell a story and enrich a narrative that stretches back some 104-years. The Aston Martin Valkyrie is an incredibly special car that demands an equally remarkable name; an uncompromising car that leaves nothing in reserve. The connotations of power and honour, of being chosen by the Gods are so evocative, and so pertinent to a car that only a fortunate few will ever experience.”

The hypercar will run on Michelin’s Pilot Sport Cup 2 tyres: 265/35 ZR20 at the front; 325/30 ZR21 at the rear. They will be mounted to lightweight magnesium alloy wheels (20 x 9.5J front, 21 x 11.5J rear) featuring race-specification centre-lock nuts to further reduce unsprung mass.


Limited Edition Ford GT Mk IV is ultimate track-only Ford GT

                DETROIT: Representing the ultimate and most extreme track only Ford GT ever, the new Ford GT Mk IV by Ford Performance and Multimatic is a radically advanced supercar delivering max performance with its unique body, powertrain and suspension.

To deliver unconstrained performance, exceeding that of any Ford GT to date, the Ford GT Mk IV has a unique twin-turbo EcoBoost engine, racing transmission, aero-focused exterior design, and chassis with longer wheelbase for greater on-track handling.

It features a specially engineered twin-turbo EcoBoost engine targeting more than 800hp, race transmission, carbon fibre “long tail” body, plus Multimatic’s Adaptive Spool Valve (ASV) suspension

The new Ford GT Mk IV nods to the year that the original Mk IV won the 24 Hours of Le Mans, with just 67 of the hand-built supercars to be produced at Multimatic’s facility in Markham, Ontario.

Building on Ford GT Mk II’s triumphant 1966 1-2-3 Le Mans finish, Ford’s development team redesigned the car from scratch with state-of-the-art technology and engineering available to create the 1967 Ford GT Mk IV.

To leverage new material science advantages, Ford’s engineers and Kar Kraft developed a new lightweight chassis using adhesive bonded honeycombed-aluminum construction with a more aerodynamic body and named it the “J-Car” because it was built to the new FIA Appendix J rules.

Combined with the famous 427 Ford V-8 (7L) engine and a special transaxle with its own cooling system that carried power to the rear wheels the 1967 Ford GT Mk IV was 9-inches longer and built specifically to dominate global endurance racing.

A new client application process (www.ford.com/performance/gt/mk-iv/) will begin for this us$1.7mil supercar, with client selections confirmed in the first-quarter of 2023. Deliveries will begin in late spring 2023.


Mercedes-Benz launches EQS SUV — its second all-electric SUV

                BERLIN: Mercedes-Benz unveiled its EQS sport utility vehicle (SUV) today, a 660km range car that will be made in America and go on sale by autumn.

Production of the EQS, the premium carmaker's second electric SUV after its EQC, will begin at its plant in Tuscaloosa, Alabama this year.

The United States and Canada are expected to be the main markets for the new vehicle, according to sales chief Britta Seeger, though it will also be launched in Europe before the end of the year.

Mercedes-Benz has not disclosed how much the new SUV will be sold for, though its existing EQS electric sedan starts at around US$103,000 (RM439,000) in the United States.

Three-quarters of new car sales in the US market last year were trucks and SUVs, posing a challenge for carmakers seeking to reduce their carbon footprint while needing to satisfy customer demand for large vehicles.

In a bid to localise its production chain, Mercedes-Benz opened its first US electric vehicle battery factory in Tuscaloosa in March.

The company sold 21,900 fully-electric vehicles worldwide in the first quarter of 2022, three times more than in the same period last year, even as overall deliveries across all vehicles fell 15%.

Just 2.3% of Mercedes-Benz' car sales last year were battery-electric vehicles, rising to 11% including plug-in hybrids, which have both an engine and a battery.

READ MORE: Mercedes-Benz EQS SUV at a glance


VW to break up MAN, says daily

                FRANKFURT: Volkswagen Group will break up MAN  and transfer its truck and bus businesses, as well as MAN Latin America, into VW's new Truck & Bus Holding GmbH, German daily Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung said.

MAN's diesel engine operations and Renk transmission business will find a new home within the Volkswagen empire, the newspaper said in an advance copy of its Tuesday edition, without citing sources.

That leaves MAN with its commercial vehicles and power engineering businesses. MAN will maintain a separate listing, the newspaper said.

MAN and Volkswagen declined comment.

Earlier this month, Volkswagen said it was creating a new commercial vehicles group to combine its truck operations with those of MAN and Scania, two other truck manufactures controlled by VW.


Volkswagen Golf GTI Clubsport unleashed

                WOLFSBURG: If you want a hotter German hot hatch than look no further than the newly released Volkswagen Golf GTI Clubsport.

This fire-breathing front-wheel drive machine has a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that pushes 296hp and 400Nm of torque.

In case you're wondering, the standard GTI produces 242hp and 370Nm of torque.

Also exclusive to the Clubsport is a seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox. It goes from zero to 100kph under six seconds and is electronically limited to a top speed of 250kph.

In terms of handling, the Clubsport has an upgraded Vehicle Dynamics Manager that now integrates the control of the variable-locking front differential into the system, in addition to the optional adaptive shocks.

VW said this allows the car to respond faster to small steering inputs and eliminates understeer found in regular front-wheel drive vehicles.

The Clubsport's suspension sits lower by 15 millimeters compared to a standard GTI.

If you're taking the Clubsport to the Nürburgring Nordschleife, then there's a driving mode specifically for it  called Special.

It includes softer suspension settings than Sport mode because Nürburgring has an undulating surface and a stiffer ride is not ideal.

It's easy to spot the Clubsport with the revised front fascia and honeycomb mesh grille.

It comes standard with five-spoke 18-inch wheels, and at the back, there is a high-gloss black spoiler on the roof.

Dual oval-shaped exhaust pipes are situated on each side of the rear with a diffuser in between.

Inside, the Clubsport comes standard with VW's ArtVelours fabric upholstery, and one has the option for perforated leather. Red stitching is evident on the seats, center armrest, floor mats, and steering wheel.


Mazda hints at new electric sports car and details huge EV investment

                LONDON: Mazda has hinted at a new electric sports car as part of a new confirmation that it was investing US$10.6 billion (RM48bil) in its electrification plans.

The Japanese carmaker has recently revealed further information about its management plan to take Mazda up to 2030, as well as developing its electrification strategy, which will come as part of three phases.

In the first, taking place between 2022 and 2024, Mazda says it will "enhance technology development for the age of electrification", and strengthen its US plant and "large product models", including the new CX-60 and seven-seat CX-80, which is due on sale next year.

In phase two, brought in between 2025 and 2027, Mazda says it will "transition to electrification", still using internal combustion engines as its base for profit, as well as pushing its battery development and technology.

Then in Phase 3, Mazda says it will undertake a "full-scale launch of EVs", though the firm says it expects only between 25 and 40% of its cars sold globally in 2030 to be EVs.

However, the brand stressed its cars’ driving enjoyment, with the last five minutes of the presentation including a video about the importance of "emotion" and the "joy of driving".

With various clips of past Mazda sports cars, including the classic Cosmo from the 1960s and various generations of the firm’s well-loved MX-5, Mazda then showed a new digital concept car – boasting a design clearly taking cues from the RX-7.

The unnamed "Vision Study Model" features a long bonnet and almost supercar-like styling thanks to upwards-opening scissor doors.

While Mazda revealed no information about the car, it strongly hints that a future sports car is in the pipeline, whether it’s as a replacement for the MX-5 or as more of successor to the well-loved RX-7 and RX-8 – something Mazda has hinted at in previous years.  - PA Media


Ricciardo wins drama-filled Malaysian Formula One Grand Prix

Ricciardo celebrating his win. - Reuters
SEPANG: Daniel Ricciardo led a Red Bull one-two as Lewis Hamilton's championship hopes went up in smoke at a dramatic, action-packed Malaysian Grand Prix today.

Hamilton was leading with 15 laps to go when his engine exploded. "No, no," cried the Englishman as flames appeared at the back of his car, leaving Ricciardo leading teammate Max Verstappen.

Championship leader Nico Rosberg survived a first-bend spin involving Sebastian Vettel and a 10-second penalty to take third place and extend the gap over Mercedes teammate Hamilton to 23 points with just five races remaining.

Hamilton was almost in tears with his head in his hands after the dramatic end to his race which has dealt a severe blow to his chances of securing a third drivers' championship in a row.

He had looked all set to snatch back the lead from Rosberg, who was relegated from second on the grid to 21st after he was hit by Vettel on the first bend.

Vettel was forced to retire with a broken front suspension in the incident that also involved Verstappen.

Hamilton had got away cleanly form pole position and sped off into the distance, clear of the trouble behind him.

He looked to be heading for a comfortable win until his engine let go in the most spectacular fashion.

An ecstatic Ricciardo celebrated his first win of the season on the podium with a "shoey" - drinking champagne from his driving boot.

Verstappen, who turned 19 on Friday, celebrated his podium finish and his birthday by also drinking the sweaty cocktail.


No driver required: Volvo's newest truck gets rid of front cabin

                GOTHENBURG: Building any sort of vehicle that is impossible to drive should normally be something a manufacturer would be unhappy about, but with Volvo's new e-truck, that's its biggest triumph.

The Volvo Vera prototype, while sporting a number of the traditional features of a haulage vehicle, is raising eyebrows with its fully autonomous, cabin-free design.

Without a front cabin, the Vera has been developed as a tractor unit able to autonomously deliver large volumes of goods carried in existing trailer designs.

The aim is for the Vera to perform regular and repetitive tasks carried out over relatively short distances, making it ideal for logistics hubs, such as ports.

"The transport system we are developing can be an important complement to today's solutions and can help meet many of the challenges faced by society, transport companies and transport buyers," says Claes Nilsson, President of Volvo Trucks.

It is thought that, with no exhaust emissions and low noise levels, the lorries could operate at any time of day, with minimal difficulty.

The Vera's autonomous operations are linked to a cloud service and a transport control centre that continuously monitors the progress of the vehicle and keeps an accurate watch of its position, battery charge, and load content, as well as other parameters.

Although no release date has been set, the Vera is expected to be further developed alongside select Volvo customers in the near future.


Built for style and fun-to-drive

                KUALA LUMPUR: The Honda City Hatchback has been designed from the start to deliver a sporty image and driving performance.

City Hatchback Large Project Leader Rei Sakamoto said the City Hatchback and City sedan were developed together so the Japanese car maker could maximise on production efficiency.

"As there was strong demand for premium hatchbacks in the Asia-Oceania market, Honda decided to offer the City Hatchback in that region," he said during a livestream interview in conjunction with the introduction of the City Hatchback in Malaysia.

 Sakamoto.

The City Hatchback was launched on Tuesday and comes in four variants of S, E, V and RS e:HEV hybrid.

The S, E and V variants are available immediately and priced at RM75,670, RM83,080 and RM87,860 respectively.

Prices are on-the-road without insurance but include sales tax exemption.

The top variant RS e:HEV is only available early next year and the price of the car would be announced closer to delivery period.

The City Hatchback and the fifth-generation City sedan share the same underpinnings and key equipment such as powertrain, and safety and convenience features.

The City Hatchback also has the same wheelbase and width with the sedan except the hatchback is 204mm shorter and uses a large tailgate design.

"The City Hatchback and City sedan use the same suspension design but the City Hatchback has a sportier setting," Sakamoto said.

Both models use front MacPherson struts and rear torsion beam suspension system.

The rear wheels of the City Hatchback also feature a slight negative camber to give better stability to the vehicle.

Although the slight negative camber may result in minor uneven tyre wear, Sakamoto said such wear would still be within tolerance.

The petrol and hybrid powertrain of the City Hatchback are also the top performers of their classes, resulting in a hatchback that is agile and fun-to-drive.

The S, E and V variants of the City Hatchback are equipped with a 1.5-litre DOHC i-VTEC engine that produces 121PS and 145Nm of torque mated to a continuous variable transmission.

Meanwhile, the RS e:HEV hybrid comes with a 1.5-litre Atkinson cycle DOHC i-VTEC engine coupled to an e-CVT and an electric traction motor.

The engine delivers 98PS and 127Nm of torque while the electric motor whips out 109PS and 253Nm of torque.

The hybrid powertrain delivers a new level of driving experience with a seamless and smooth acceleration as well as excellent fuel efficiency.

The RS e:HEV starts on electric power until it reaches high speeds where the petrol engine takes over.

The S and E variants have a commendable 0-100kph sprint time of 10.7 seconds and a top speed of 195kph.

The V variant, while having the same 0-100kph dash time of 10.7 with the S and E variants, it has a tad lower top speed of 194kph.

The RS e:HEV has the fastest acceleration of 9.7 seconds but its top speed plateaus at 175kph.

The City Hatchback also carries over the Honda Jazz's versatile 4-Modes Ultra Seats that can be configured into Utility, Long, Tall or Refresh modes.

The Ultra Seats allow owners to use various modes to maximise luggage carrying capacity or for lounging in the car.

Owners can also spice up their City Hatchback with four accessories packages of Modulo, Urban, Utility and Protection.

The Modulo Package, priced at RM3,825, comes with four spoilers for the front, side and tailgate.

The Urban Package, costing at RM1,719, offers the door visors, foot lighting, rear panel lining cover and side step illumination.

The Utility Package, sold at RM458, consists of a cargo tray, trunk organiser and reflective door films, while the Protection Package, which comprises ultra glass body coating, ultra window coating and wheel lock nuts comes at RM3,007.

Also available is the Honda recommended digital video recorder for front and rear recording at RM1,149 and Ray Barrier window film packages ranging from RM1,617 to RM2,275.


Last Porsche 911 (991) rolls off production line

                STUTTGART (Germany): Porsche's 991 series has been the most comprehensively developed generation of the 911 to date – and the most successful too, with 233,540 units produced.

The final specimen has now rolled off the production line - a 911 Speedster that's bound for the US market.

The 991 generation was launched in 2011 as one of the biggest development steps in the history of the 911.

Nearly 90% of all components were newly designed or had undergone substantial further development.

Thanks to a lightweight body made of an innovative aluminium-steel composite, it was the first time that a new 911 had weighed less than its predecessor.

The chassis, which benefited from a 100mm-longer wheelbase than its predecessor, could be equipped with a new, optional roll stabilization system – Porsche Dynamic Chassis Control (PDCC) – and set the benchmark in terms of driving dynamics.

The Cabriolet followed in the spring of 2012 with another innovation.

When closed, the lightweight magnesium bows made it possible to achieve a coupe-like curve of the roof that had never been seen before, and with a silhouette that was retained even at high speeds.

The new 911 Targa, which came out at the end of 2012, had the characteristic hoop running the width of the vehicle.

At the push of a button, the top section of the roof could be moved automatically and stored in the rear of the vehicle.

The host of innovations continued in the 911 Turbo, which saw the first active aerodynamics and particulate filter-equipped turbo engines on any 911 Carrera model.

The 991-generation also proved the ideal basis for special models and radical sports cars.

Porsche celebrated the 50th anniversary of its cult sports car in 2013 with an exclusively equipped limited edition model, of which only 1,963 examples were built.

In 2016, the 500hp naturally-aspirated 911 R evoked memories of the road-approved 1967 racing sports car of the same name.

Two other purist sports cars with classic predecessors made their debut in 2017 - the sporty 911 Carrera T and the 911 GT3 high-performance variant with Touring Package offer.

The one-millionth 911 was also built as part of the 991 generation and just like Ferdinand (Ferry) Porsche’s first company 911, the not-for-sale commemorative model was painted in Irish Green and boasted leather and Pepita seats.

In the same year, Porsche Exclusive Manufaktur presented the 911 Turbo S Exclusive Series with 607hp that was coated in a spectacular Golden Yellow Metallic paintwork.

In 2017, the fastest and most powerful 911 racing technology ever seen in a production road-going 911 made its appearance in the form of a 700hp 911 GT2 RS.

A few months later, its naturally-aspirated sibling appeared as the 911 GT3 RS that came equipped with a racing chassis and a 4.0-litre naturally-aspirated engine producing 520hp.

Right on time to mark the 70th anniversary of Porsche sports cars, the 911 Speedster embodied the original virtues of Porsche via lightweight construction, efficiency, purity and driving pleasure from a 502hp 4.0-litre naturally-aspirated engine with a manual six-speed transmission and high-performance sports chassis.

The two-seater was not just the last derivative of the 991-generation; it has now also become the last model of the series to be manufactured.

Like its ancestor and archetype, the 1948 Porsche 356 No. 1 Roadster, it will become an ambassador of the brand.

"Porsche stands for both tradition and innovation. This is reflected nowhere more clearly than in the core of the brand – the 911. The 911 replaced the 356 in 1963 and, in the decades that followed, our rear engine model grew into an unrivalled sports car icon. The 991-generation, in particular, has set new standards in terms of performance, drivability and efficiency. It fills me with pride, as well as a touch of sadness, to have to send it off into retirement. For myself, I can say that the 991 has given me enormous pleasure,” said Porsche AG chief research and development officer Michael Steiner.


Alpina reveals Bavaria's new king of SUVs — the XB7

                MUNICH: German tuner, Alpina has finally unveiled its uber-fast XB7 that's the company's rendition of the BMW X7 Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV).

Due for a proper unveiling in September, the XB7 will proudly usurp the Bavarian carmaker's X7 M50i's top spot and will effectively become the alternative to the Alpina B7 sedan should you wish.

For pricing, the XB7 starts from USD$142,295 (RM620,000) while the XB7 throws away all notion of refinement and elegance associated with the BMW for a more rugged look with its gaping intakes on the bumper and a lip spoiler bearing the tuning house's name.

At the back, it sports a diffuser to help keep those go-fast days a little more stable while its side profile eagerly bears a set of 21-inch wheels.

An optional and larger 23-inch set fitted with Italian tyres from Pirelli is also available.

Regardless of the choice of wheels, peaking from behind them will be the Brembo four-piston callipers performance brake system dressed in the tuner's colours that will clamp securely down upon the over-sized 15.5-inch front rotors.

Suspending the XB7 is the standard air suspension that can raise the body and give it an added 1.6 inches of ride-height at speeds less than 30kph.

Breaching 160kph, the body then hunkers down lower by 0.8-inches and the needle passes the 250kph mark, it'll lower itself again by another 0.8-inches.

Powering the wheels is BWM's twin-turbo 4.4-litre N63 V8 engine producing 612hp from 5,500 to 6,600rpm and an immense 800Nm of torque from 2,000 to 5,000rpm.

Drumming out the engine's performance is the stainless-steel active exhaust system that can be restrained for greater comfort or unrestrained when in Sport mode. Other modes include Comfort Plus and Sport Plus.

Managing the "death-roll" coming out of the engine is an eight-speed ZF automatic transmission for the all-wheel-drive system.

Translated to real-world application, the XB7 gets from 0 to 100kph in 4.1 seconds before topping out at 290kph.

Inside, the cabin features as standard plush leather seats, soft-closure doors, leather-wrapped instrument panel, a faux-suede headliner and a massive panoramic sunroof.

In the options list, an LED "skylit" roof can be had as well as Lavalina leather-wrapped sport steering wheel, a crystal glass iDrive controller with a laser-etched Alpina logo, illuminated Alpina door sills and a bevvy of Alpina badges.

The German tuning house allows budding owners the choice of having either a rear bench or a pair of bucket seats for the second row.