Hyundai Genesis luxury model arrives

                KUALA LUMPUR: Hyundai presented its latest Genesis flagship luxury model with a potent V6 gasoline direct injection (GDI) engine.

The new Genesis, being Hyundai’s latest flagship luxury model, was launched during the opening of the company’s new 38,000 sq ft Global Dealership Space Identity 3S (sales, service and spare-parts) Centre on Jalan Klang Lama.

Priced at RM399,888 (on-the-road with GST and insurance), the car now comes with an industry-first 8-year or 300,000km warranty programme for its powertrain (engine and gearbox).

A 3.8-litre V6 GDI engine resides under the hood providing 310bhp at 6,000rpm and 397Nm of torque at 5,000rpm, while an 8-speed automatic transmission with Shiftronic manual shift and paddle-shifters manage power to the rear wheels. A sprint to 100kph from standstill takes 6.5sec.

With a wheelbase of 3,010mm, the Genesis comes in measuring 4,990mm-long, 1,890mm-wide and 1,480mm-tall, but despite its generous dimensions there’s only 493 litres of boot space.

At the front, the Genesis possesses a distinctive hexagonal grille, flanked by Bi-Xenon headlamps with auto-levelling and bending light, while LEDs have been reserved for the daytime running lights and rear light clusters.

The Genesis uses a rack-mounted motor driven electric power steering (R-MDPS) that comes with a variable gear ratio for low, medium and high speeds, while an electronically controlled suspension (ECS) system takes care of damping to improve ride and handling.

Among the list of unique features of the Genesis is its power door system that fully closes the door when they are not fully shut thanks to sensors embedded within the door latches that activate an actuator motor.

Another feature is its smart trunk system, which automatically opens the boot after sensing the key fob is within close proximity for three seconds, instead of requiring a wiggling foot under the tailgate.

Hyundai says that the cabin has been well insulated with sound-absorbing materials to heighten comfort levels by reducing vibrations as well as booming and audible noise.

Venturing further into the cabin reveals a Head-Up-Display, seats upholstered in full-grain Nappa leather, an 8-inch driver infotainment touchscreen system and a 14-speaker 900-Watt Lexicon Discrete Logic 7 Surround Audio System with a 12-channel digital amplifier.

A carbon dioxide (CO2) sensor monitors air quality within the 3,483-litre cabin to reduce drowsiness for the driver and a panoramic roof lets in the starlight.

In terms of safety, the Genesis gets smart cruise control with a radar sensor that helps to automatically maintain speed and distance with the car ahead as well nine airbags, seatbelt pretensioners, an active hood system.

Also included is a 360-degree around view monitoring (AVM) system that’s paired with the smart parking assist system, puddle lamps, anti-lock braking system (ABS) with brake assist system (BAS).

The list continues with vehicle stability management (VSM), electronic stability control (ESC), traction control system (TCS), hill-start assist control (HAC), as well as blind spot detection (BSD) and rear cross-traffic alert (RCTA).

The Hyundai Genesis is now available in three colours of Marble White, Platinum Silver and Onyx Black.

New owners will enjoy a 5-year or 100,000km free service (whichever comes first; with a service interval of 10,000km), covering all scheduled maintenance items including labour, parts and lubricants as well as a free two-year concierge service membership to The Leader.

Last but not least, a 24-hour road assist service is also made available to new and existing Hyundai vehicles.

> MORE TO COME


Mitsubishi Lancer JT recalled to fix airbag issue

                KUALA LUMPUR: Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia (MMM) is recalling nearly 900 cars to replace defective airbags that may pose a danger to occupants.

The recall affects 895 Mitsubishi Lancer JT manufactured from September 2004 to April 2006.

The passenger airbag inflator in the car may release metal fragments when deployed causing injuries to the passenger.

“MMM is taking this initiative to ensure customer safety and regrets the inconvenience caused. This effort is to enable the replacement of the passenger airbag inflator with newly produced inflators,” said MMM chief executive officer Yang Won-Chul.

MMM will send notification letters to affected car owners and the full cost of the replacement will be borne by the company.

It urged customers to make an appointment at any Mitsubishi service centre to have the problem fixed.

Call MMM at 1-800-18-6611 or go to its website.


Driverless cars to be tested on Singapore roads soon

                SINGAPORE: By March, a small fleet of driverless cars will start plying the one-north area as Singapore joins an exclusive but growing group of countries testing autonomous vehicles on public roads.

The Land Transport Authority (LTA) and JTC Corp have earmarked a 6km test route in the research hub for the trial.

Although the circuit consists mainly of low-traffic roads, there are stretches with moderately heavy traffic, such as Portsdown Road and Ayer Rajah Avenue.

Some likely participants have been sounded out for the one- year exercise, which may be extended.

These include the Singapore-MIT Alliance for Research and Technology (Smart), A*Star and ST Kinetics.

The Straits Times understands that LTA is also reaching out to car manufacturers that are working on autonomous technologies, such as Daimler and Nissan.

Dr James Fu, project leader of Smart’s autonomous vehicle section, said although research in the field is being carried out by several parties, there is not much sharing of information.

He said: “We’re not sure how exactly others are doing this, but we’re trying to see how we can do it.”


Aiways previews U6ion concept coupe

                SHANGHAI: Aiways, the Shanghai-based personal mobility provider, has published the first sketches of its U6ion electric crossover coupe concept, ahead of the model’s global debut at the 2020 Geneva International Motor Show (GIMS) next month.

The U6ion previews a second all-electric SUV from Aiways, based on the same MAS (More Adaptable Structure) platform as its U5 sibling.

Under the tutelage of Ken Okuyama, creator of the Ferrari Enzo and former Pininfarina design chief, and now chief advisor for design and arts at Aiways, the company has created a form language which embodies the ‘intelligent and simplified technology’ at the heart of Aiways product development ethos.

Aiways chief designer Dongfei Luo commented: “The U6ion sketches present a crossover coupe with a harmonious and exciting body shape, aimed at attracting young car users looking for a zero-emission SUV that offers style, practicality and electric performance.”

The U6ion will be presented to media and the public for the first time during GIMS.


Genesis shares details on its posh GV60 electric crossover

                SEOUL: They're having a tough time taking on Audi, BMW and Mercedes in the oldschool combustion segment, but Genesis is now hoping for a respectable success on electric avenue.

Enter the GV60 from the sister brand of Hyundai and Kia.

Following the announcement of a G80 luxury sedan converted to battery drive, the Korean manufacturer is now planning their first vehicle designed specifically as an EV. A crossover for the upper middle class, the GV60 shares its battery platform with the Hyundai Ioniq5 and Kia EV6.

It wants to outdo the competition primarily with its 800-volt technology, and according to the manufacturer it enables short charging stops, in which you can get enough juice for 100km in little over 4 minutes.

Genesis says we can expect a market launch in the next eight months and has not yet given any details on prices. But with a view to the more down-to-earth sister models, prices well beyond US$60,000 are to be expected.

In return, similar to Hyundai and Kia, there will be up to two engines with possibly more than 544 hp on tap with batteries that should provide enough energy for more than 500km of range. However, Genesis will not reveal exact specifications until later.

But the Koreans are already allowing a glimpse into the interior of the five-seater and have shown us two slightly curved screens behind the steering wheel.

Part of the controls, dubbed Cristal Sphere, is reminiscent of a fortune teller's glass ball and is illuminated from the inside in such a way that it creates an ambient light even when the car is stationary, Genesis adds.


Ford Focus-ing on stability

DEARBORN (Michigan): The new 2015 Ford Focus features stability control technology that actively determines when a car meets the conditions that may lead to a spin and intervenes early to help prevent the driver from losing control.

The feature – known as enhanced transitional stability technology – can help deliver better handling in highly dynamic driving maneuvers. Information related to the car’s speed, steering wheel position, turn rate of the steering wheel and other input is considered to determine when a skid is imminent.

Once a risk is identified, braking is applied to individual wheels to help the driver maintain control and continue on the intended path.

“By recognizing scenarios that can lead to a potential loss of driver control before oversteer has developed, the enhanced transitional stability system is setting the recovery process in motion quicker than ever before – resulting in smoother, more refined control,” said David Messih, Brake Controls manager, Ford North America.

Enhanced transitional stability technology is standard on the new Focus. It combines real-time data from sensors throughout the car to anticipate a potential spin by 100 to 200 milliseconds.

The innovation came about when engineers tried applying an algorithm already in use with Ford’s Roll Stability Control to the enhanced transitional stability technology. The result is a stability control system that predicts potential spins before they happen.

Engineers have been working hard to ensure the new Focus feels more connected to the road and is even easier to drive. Enhanced transitional stability technology is just one of the new and improved chassis control innovations developed by Ford engineers that lead to better driving dynamics and handling on the 2015 Ford Focus.


KLIMS'18: Wraps off on new Hyundai Santa Fe

                KUALA LUMPUR: Hyundai-Sime Darby Motors has unveiled the latest generation Santa Fe sports utility vehicle that offers much improvement in styling and features.

Expected to go on sales in Malaysian showrooms in the first quarter of 2019, the Santa Fe will be offered in Executive and Premium variants.

The Santa Fe is equipped with a Theta II 2.4 MPI petrol with a six-speed automatic transmission or a R22 VGT turbodiesel with an eight-speed automatic. Price is estimated at RM188,000 onwards and is open for booking.

The seven-seater comes with the new Hyundai signature cascading grille design with slim LED headlights.

Aside from creating a spacious interior, the new Santa Fe's longer wheelbase together with shorter overhangs create an elegant profile.

Inside, the Santa Fe feels upmàrket with high quality materials and improved ergonomic.

The second row seats come with one-touch folding to allow easy entty to third row.

The new Santa Fe also has Rear Occupant Alert that prevents instances of children or pets being forgotten and left behind in the car.

Features include six airbags, vehicle stability control, hill start assist, downhill brake control, electric parking brake with automatic hold, smart power tailgate, 7-inch LCD virtual cluster, wireless phone charger, and floating type 7-inch display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Free service is 50,000km with three years' validity and warranty is 300,000km or five years.

Hyundai-Sime Darby Motors managing director Low Yuan Lung said the new Santa Fe came with many new additions and upgrades that substantially raise the bar.

"The new Santa Fe is an outstanding testament to Hyundai's constant improvement on design, safety, performance, spaciousness, user experience and technology," he sajd.

Other Hyundai models at the auto show are the new Tucson, Kona, Kona Electric, NEXO, Accent, Grand Starex Executive, Ioniq Hybrid and i30N.


Police take swift action against motorists who cut queues

                PETALING JAYA: Motorists who cut queue on the KL-Seremban Highway had swift action taken against them in an operation by traffic police on Monday.

Kuala Lumpur traffic police, led by enforcement and operations officer Asst Supt Leonard Lawrence, conducted the operation along the busy highway from 5.30pm to 7.45pm as part of Ops Selamat.

The operation saw police aiming for road users misusing the emergency lane and those cutting queues.

Both offences were among several highlighted under the current Ops Selamat.

“We issued 52 summonses in today's operation. This operation will be conducted from time to time. Hopefully, it will remind road users to obey the law,” said ASP Leonard.

Earlier, a similar operation at Jalan Tun Razak saw 46 summonses being issued. During the operation, two foreigners in a car were stopped for misusing the emergency lane.

Upon inspection, police found that the two did not have valid documents, so they were taken to the police station. The latest round of Ops Selamat runs until Wednesday.


BMW official questions feasibility of driverless cars

BMW Vision Next 100 concept and its interior (below).

LONDON: A BMW representative has said something several other people may be thinking but are being cautious about saying — that driverless cars may never become mainstream, or even be allowed onto public roads.

Ian Robertson, BMW's special representative to the UK, was speaking to a summit of the UK's Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT).

While highlighting the Bavarian motor manufacturer's leading role in the development of autonomous drive technology, Robertson conceded that for some it may never be morally acceptable to hand over decision-making power, especially in difficult circumstances, to a machine.

Robertson told the gathering: "Imagine a scenario where the car has to decide between hitting one person or the other — to choose whether to cause this death or that death. What's it going to do? Access the diary of one and ascertain they are terminally ill and so should be hit? I don't think that situation will ever be allowed."

Most talk so far has centred on whether the technology will work, and how soon it appear on public roads. Robertson's statement takes the whole autonomous vehicle conversation to a deeper level.

BMW is believed to have more than 40 vehicles undergoing testing of driverless systems on public roads on journeys routinely of 1,000km. Although most of these journeys pass without incident, Robertson admitted the onboard engineer has to intervene an average of three times per journey at the moment.

The former BMW sales and marketing chief sees that ratio as good, but said perfection is the eventual goal. Robertson conceded: "If we are working towards a 'brain off' scenario, where perhaps we expect travellers to even sit in the back of the car and relax, then that clearly isn't possible today, despite what some might tell you. But I believe that in the long term, the regulators will step in and set boundaries about how far we can go. It might be to allow it only on motorways, as they are the most controlled environments."

In the past, Robertson has said that he could not see BMW producing a car without a steering wheel, believing that there will always be the option for occupants to drive the vehicle themselves.


Get RM200 Touch ‘n Go eWallet credit when you buy Goodyear Assurance ComfortTred

                KUALA LUMPUR: Goodyear Malaysia has started its latest promotion offering up to RM200 Touch ‘n Go eWallet credit upon purchase of four units of Assurance ComfortTred tyres.

To participate in the promotion, customers must buy the tyres from any Goodyear participating stores or Goodyear Malaysia official stores on Lazada and Shopee. The promotion
runs from now until June 30.

Launched in November 2022, the Goodyear Assurance ComfortTred tyres touts a comfortable and quiet ride, while also ensuring maximum safety and performance.

Upon buying the tyres, customers can register for the Worry Free Assurance (WFA) Warranty, which offers a 1-year road hazard warranty to protect customers against road hazard damage, two times free tyre safety checks and five years warranty for any manufacturing defects of the tyres.


JB petrol station owner fined RM40,000 for allowing foreign-registered vehicle to pump RON95 fuel

Phan leaving the Sessions Court after paying his fine. - THOMAS YONG / The Star

JOHOR BARU: A petrol station owner was fined RM40,000 at the Sessions Court here, for allowing a foreign-registered vehicle to fill up with RON95 petrol four years ago.

Phan Chib Chan, 59, pleaded guilty after the charges were read out in Mandarin before Judge Che Wan Zaidi Che Wan Ibrahim on Tuesday (March 21).

According to the charge sheet, Phan has failed to comply with the ban on the sale of RON95 petrol to foreign-registered vehicles.

The offence was committed at Jalan Tun Abdul Razak Susur 4 here, at 10.40 am on May 13, 2019.

Phan had allowed a Singapore-registered vehicle to fill up 54 litres of RON95 petrol worth RM113.30, which is an offence under Regulation 12A of the Control of Supplies Regulations 1974.

The offence can be charged under Section 22(1) of the Control of Supplies Act 1961 which carries a maximum RM1mil fine or three years in jail.

The case was prosecuted by the Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry, led by Deputy Public Prosecutors Muhamad Sabiq Muhamad Subri and Raja Nor Ikhlas Raja Ariff, while Phan ws represented by Lim Chon Sim.

During the prosecution, Muhamad Sabiq also informed the court that Phan had been previously given a compound notice for the same offence in 2014 and 2017.

Earlier, Che Wan Zaidi said in his judgment that the offence has been frequently reported occurring along the country's borders and that the RM40,000 fine is intended to be a lesson for him and other petrol station owners out there.

Meanwhile, Johor Domestic Trade and Cost of Living director Lilis Saslinda Pornomo informed the media that the department is currently investigating another 22 cases of RON95 sales to foreign vehicles.

“We are currently preparing the investigation papers as this is a very serious offence that has caused a huge loss to the country,” she said when met by reporters at the court lobby.

She also said a total of six petrol station owners have also been given total compound notices worth RM10,000 for the same offence from January to March 20 of this year.

Phan has paid the fine.


Work halts on Nevada car plant as troubles mount for Chinese entrepreneur

                LOS ANGELES: A Chinese tech entrepreneur's US startup halted construction this week on a US$1 billion electric vehicle factory in Nevada, a sign financial problems were escalating for Jia Yueting, who aimed to be a rival of Elon Musk's Tesla Motors Inc.

Faraday Future, based in Gardena, California, reportedly missed several payment deadlines with contractor AECOM, according to a Nevada state official. A Faraday spokesperson declined to confirm whether it missed payments, but said Faraday "is working with" AECOM during an "adjustment period" at the plant and that it planned to restart work at the plant in 2017.

"This is a Ponzi scheme," Nevada state treasurer Dan Schwartz said in an interview Tuesday. "You have a new company that has never built a car, building a new plant in the middle of the desert, financed by a mysterious Chinese billionaire. At some point, as with Bernie Madoff, the game ends."

Faraday is part of a network of young EV companies in China and the United States backed by Jia. He said last week his company LeEco, which has invested in high-tech products from electric cars to smartphones, faced a shortage of cash and was suffering from expanding too fast, in too many directions.

Earlier Tuesday, LeEco's parent, Leshi Holdings, said it had secured commitments in China for US$600 million to support LeEco. LeEco said in August it would invest nearly US$2 billion to build an electric car plant in eastern China.

Earlier, Faraday negotiated a deal to build a US$1 billion plant in Nevada, with the state providing more than US$200 million in incentives. The plant was expected to create 4,500 jobs.

Schwartz said Nevada had yet to issue US$175 million in bonds that were part of the incentive package for the plant, and "is not on the hook for anything."

The Faraday spokesman on Tuesday said the company is "refocusing its resources" on preparing its first production vehicle for introduction in early January at the annual Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas. LeEco is preparing a new electric vehicle for the same show.

Faraday Future in late October confirmed the departures of six top executives over the last several months.

One former Faraday Future manager told Reuters that several senior officials who left "saw that the financial condition of the company was in trouble" and that Jia had been unable to obtain sufficient investment "to fund all the LeEco initiatives."


Dutch digital mapmaker TomTom says it will extend VW partnership

                AMSTERDAM: TomTom NV, the Dutch digital mapmaking company, said today it would extend a supply partnership with Volkswagen, integrating its mapping and navigation technology into Volkwagen's cars, including electric vehicles.

"This multi-year deal between TomTom and the Volkswagen Group covers all markets globally excluding China and is the continuation of a successful and long cooperation," TomTom said.

Under the deal, the terms of which were not disclosed, TomTom's technology will be integrated into Volkswagen cars' user interface.


Watch out for 2017 World Car Awards in NY on April 12

The Jaguar F-PACE is competing with the Audi Q5 and VW Tiguan for the 2017 World Card of the Year Award.
NEW YORK: The Road to World Car for 2017 will end at the New York International Auto Show on April 12 with a high profile prize-giving ceremony announcing the winners in six World Car categories.

For the first time, three crossovers monopolise all top three spots for the overall World Car of the Year award, a result that reflects the changing nature of the marketplace.

Five OEMs are also poised for potential double-wins: Audi, BMW Group, Jaguar, Mercedes-Benz, and Toyota.

Aside from the usual five categories being contested - World Luxury Car, World Performance Car, World Green Car, World Car Design and World Car of the Year - a sixth category has been added for the first time, World Urban Car.

 The Mazda MX-5 was the 2016 World Car of the Year.

In another first, the World Car Awards open the New York show this year - moving one day forward from April 13.

After the 75 jurors from 23 countries voted in two secret Internet ballots in January and February, and using results tabulated by KPMG, the top three finalists in all categories were revealed at the Geneva Motor Show on March 7.

The World Car started its 2017 awards programme at the Paris Auto Show in September 2016, followed by a short stop in Los Angeles in mid-November for a joint manufacturer test drive that allowed jury members the opportunity to evaluate two dozen eligible vehicles.

The awards programme would also be at the revived London Motor Show in early May where WCA will display several category winners.

Mazda MX-5 was named as the 2016 World Car of the Year as well as World Car Design of the Year award. It was also the first time in the history of the awards that a single model has taken both titles.


VW Polo R vs skiing

WOLFSBURG: A ferry that waits for nobody, breath-taking fjord scenery in Norway and a unique race. That is what you get when Aksel Lund Svindal – Norway’s downhill gold medallist – meets compatriot and Volkswagen rally driver Andreas Mikkelsen.

The result was a wonderfully wild preparation for round eight of the FIA World Rally Championship (WRC) – the Rally Finland, which gets underway on Thursday – and provided some captivating videos and photos.

Svindal and Mikkelsen were embroiled in a spectacular head-to-head sprint on the world-famous Lyseveien road in the southwest of Norway, which features 27 hairpins spread over 29 kilometres.

The two Norwegian sportsmen agreed to an unusual competition, before catching the ferry home together: Mikkelsen, at the wheel of his 318-hp Polo R WRC, would race Svindal on his skis – the latter flat-out off-piste, while Mikkelsen had to wind his way between massive snowbanks, some of which towered up to eight metres in height. All the time, both racers were up against the clock too.

“The fjord, the steep mountainsides, the high snowbanks, the winding road – driving here is a dream,” said a beaming Andreas Mikkelsen. The highlight of the action: as Mikkelsen tore down the hillside, Svindal produced a breath-taking jump across the road, whilst the Volkswagen Polo R WRC hurtled under him at over 100kph.

“To pull that off, I had to plan the speed and timing of the jump perfectly,” explained Svindal. With insufficient snow to ski on further down the slope, Mikkelsen took Svindal on board the WRC Polo as a co-driver for the final few kilometres.

According to Mikkelsen, Svindal was an impressive co-driver. “Aksel immediately grasped what it was all about, and noticed important details, such as when the car lost grip for a hundredth of a second,” said the 26-year-old, who skied for the Norwegian youth team before turning to rallying.

Svindal was also thrilled with his unique taxi ride: “A priceless experience! I really hope I get the chance to do that again some time,” said the 32-year-old car enthusiast. “I have to confess to being a little bit jealous of Andreas for driving in rallies.“ When asked whether Svindal could be his next co-driver in the World Rally Championship, Mikkelsen answered with a broad grin: “I would love to have Aksel as my co-driver. But he would have to lose a bit of muscle mass first.”


Toyota has produced its 10 millionth Yaris

                LONDON: Toyota has now produced its 10 millionth Yaris worldwide, joining several other models from the brand that have reached and surpassed the milestone figure.

First introduced in 1999, the Yaris is now in its fourth generation and is produced at sites all over the world in 10 different countries, including Japan, Brazil and China. The model is also called the "Vitz" in other overseas markets.

The 10 million mark is a significant accolade for Toyota, but also one shared by rivals such as Honda, Ford and Opel, while the Yaris still lags behind more than 35 million Volkswagen Golfs and 40 million Ford F-Series trucks.

Since 2001, European Yaris models have been produced at Valenciennes in northern France, while in 2021 the European footprint was expanded with a plant in Kolin, Czech Republic.

More than 4.6 million Yaris models have been manufactured in Europe, too, with a third of all Toyota models sold in the continent in 2021 being a Yaris.

The 10 millionth example – a Yaris GR Sport – was produced at Toyota’s factory in France.

 The Yaris of 1999.

The Yaris joins several other Toyota models that have accumulated eight-figure production figures, with these including the Corolla (the most popular car ever), Camry, RAV4, Hilux and Land Cruiser.

Toyota began devising the Yaris in the late 1990s as a replacement for the ageing Starlet, with the Japanese firm ensuring this was a model with ‘global’ appeal, though much of its design work took place in Europe.

In more recent years the Yaris has become renowned for its hybrid engines, by becoming the first car in its class to feature such a powertrain in 2012. Since 2020, with the launch of the latest version, it has only been sold as a hybrid model.

Matt Harrison, president and CEO, of Toyota Motor Europe, said: “The Yaris has been synonymous with Toyota’s growth in Europe, becoming our best-selling and most produced vehicle in the region. It has also redefined our brand accessibility and awareness.

“The Yaris family has expanded, following the Yaris Cross’s introduction in September 2021, together with GR Yaris, a thoroughbred performance car born from our WRC success. The Yaris success story isn’t over yet and I’m looking forward to seeing the exciting role it will play in the future.” — PA Media


Daimler, Volvo and Traton plan €500m truck-charging JV

                FRANKFURT: Three major European truck manufacturers - Daimler Trucks, AB Volvo and Traton - said today they plan to form a joint venture to develop an electric battery-charging network for long-haul trucks and buses.

Charging infrastructure expansion has been a central hurdle to the mass adoption of battery-powered vehicles.

The three companies, which are normally competitors, will invest €500 million (RM2.5bil) in the venture that they will own equally and that will start operations in 2022.

The aim is to install and operate at least 1,700 charging points within five years.

The joint company will be based in Amsterdam and will over time seek further partners and public funding.


Volkswagen CFO: Next-generation software platform to come by 2028

                BERLIN: Volkswagen software unit Cariad will likely bring its next generation 2.0 platform to market towards 2027 or 2028, its chief financial officer said at a Financial Times conference today.

The software would enable so-called Level 4 autonomous driving and was due to be implemented across the fleet from 2026 but its development has suffered delays.

Arno Antlitz said the company first wanted to concentrate on the version of the platform that will be implemented from next year in premium electric models like the e-Macan and Audi Q6 e-tron.

"There will be great cars on that platform... that gives us a little flexibility to postpone 2.0 to 2027, 2028," he added, confirming a Reuters report last year that the platform would be pushed back to the end of the decade.

Volkswagen earlier this week appointed Bentley production chief Peter Bosch to lead Cariad, which has been dogged by delays and overspending since it was set up by former chief executive Herbert Diess.

"This will be a very strong team that focuses on the turnaround of Cariad," Antlitz said today, adding that the aim was to rely more on outside partners and do less in-house to reduce cash burn as the carmaker attempts to build up its software expertise.

Volkswagen's ultimate goal is a unified software and electronics architecture for all VW group vehicles. It will rely on Qualcomm "system on a chip" semiconductors in Europe and North America, and in China will use super-chips developed with Chinese partner Horizon Robotics.


BMW still hammering out details of promised fossil-fuel free plant

                BERLIN: BMW is still hammering out how to make good on a promise to build the world's first fossil-free plant in Hungary, from how much energy can be generated on-site to how much storage will be needed, the carmaker's production chief said.

The plant under construction, which BMW has said will open in 2025 and source all its electricity from renewables, will still be connected to Hungary's grid, Milan Nedeljkovic said at a media roundtable on Wednesday.

About half of Hungary's electricity generation comes from nuclear energy, according to data from the International Energy Agency, with around a quarter from natural gas.

BMW will attempt to source a "significant" proportion of the energy required for the Hungary plant on-site, such as through solar panels, Nedeljkovic said, declining to comment on whether he expected the exact figure to be over 50%.

Like other carmakers, BMW has committed to purchasing 100% green energy, but much of this is bought in the form of so-called energy certificates, which signal demand for renewables on the open market but do not mean renewable energy is flowing into its plants. read more

Russia's invasion of Ukraine and spiking gas prices have pushed carmakers to look more closely at direct renewable sources, in an attempt to lower dependence on Russia and reduce exposure to a sudden halt in gas supplies.

BMW was exploring various ideas for on-site storage of renewable energy, Nedeljkovic said, with one option being high-voltage batteries recycled from BMW cars.

It was not yet known what capacity the battery storage system in the Debrecen plant — where the carmaker plans to produce around 150,000 units a year, compared to the 350,000 it produces in Leipzig — would have.

"We are setting up a plan to define capacity requirements," Nedeljkovic said.


Yokohama ambassador Didier Drogba to visit Kuala Lumpur

                BANDAR SUNWAY: Yokohama, official partner of five-time Premier League Champions and current FA Cup holders Chelsea FC, are delighted to be bringing club legend Didier Drogba to Sunway Pyramid Mall, Selangor on Saturday December 8, 2018.

Chelsea fans can see football legend, Didier Drogba, as part of a fan event at the mall.

A fan Q&A, hosted by Astro SuperSport presenter Amanda Chaang will start from 1pm.

The event will also include football freestyler entertainment.

The unique fan event will be fronted by Chelsea legend and Yokohama ambassador, Didier Drogba.

Having won 12 major club trophies during his two spells at the club (2004-2012 and 2014-15), Drogba is a true global superstar and an inspiration to millions around the world.

Fans will also be treated to a football freestyler show, as well as opportunities to take photos throughout the event, sharing their experience on social media.

Didier Drogba, who scored more than 100 Premier League goals for Chelsea, won the Premier League title four times as a Blue, as well as the Champions League in 2012, said “I am very excited to visit Selangor with Chelsea and their partners, Yokohama. I’m really looking forward to seeing as many of the Chelsea FC fans in Selangor as possible.”


Mercedes-Benz E 300 BlueTEC Hybrid arrives

                KUALA LUMPUR: Mercedes-Benz Malaysia has introduced the latest E 300 BlueTEC Hybrid and  is considered to be the world’s most fuel-efficient model in the luxury segment.

The latest hybrid E-Class out of Stuttgart, costing RM348,888 OTR without insurance, sports a 2,143cc four-cylinder diesel engine that’s rated at 203bhp and 500Nm of torque, while its hybrid system provides 27bhp (20kW) and 250Nm of torque at an operating voltage of 120V.

In terms of performance, the E 300 hybrid gets to 100kph from standstill in 7.1sec and onwards to a top speed of 242kph, while fuel consumption is rated from 3.8 to 4.1L/100km and CO2 emissions at 99-109g/km.

The German luxury coachbuilder touts its latest E 300 hybrid to be one that would deliver a special driving experience that’s underpinned by accomplished sportiness.

Among the high-tech equipment provided in the E 300 is its Eco Start/Stop system, which switches the internal combustion engine off when coasting at speeds up to 160kph and is assured that engine will restart quickly, smoothly and virtually silently.

At slow speeds, manoeuvring the E 300 hybrid will utilise electric power alone, especially during parking manoeuvres.

During acceleration, electric power will be used for moving off and driving under low load, but accelerating hard from standstill will be particularly powerful, since the electric motor has up to 250Nm of torque readily available instantaneously.

The compact electric motor is installed in a space-saving configuration in the clutch housing between engine and transmission and is a three-phase AC internal rotor magneto motor.

The hybrid drive unit is a further development of the module from the S 400L Hybrid and is based on the 7G-Tronic Plus automatic transmission.

Distinguishing features include the omission of the hydraulic torque converter and the addition of a wet clutch of the kind also found in the high-performance AMG models.

Consequently, the electric motor can be integrated in the transmission unit in such a way that it takes up only marginally more space than the 7G-Tronic (+65 mm).

The omission of the converter allows all-electric motoring as well as "sailing", thus significantly boosting the potential to reduce fuel consumption.

The E 300 hybrid's boost function allows the electric motor to support the combustion engine during acceleration, especially for those overtaking moments.

When cruising at a constant speed, the engine control unit will shift the operating points towards exceptionally low specific fuel consumption levels.

In "sailing" mode, at speeds below 160kph, the combustion engine shuts down and the desired speed is maintained by the electric motor alone until the battery needs recharging.

Electrical energy can be re-harnessed during coasting (slowly decelerating) or during braking, where the electric motor becomes a generator.

When the brake pedal is pressed, the generator output is initially increased proportionally for greater deceleration.

Only when increased brake pressure is applied are the wheel brakes additionally deployed.

A central display in hybrid models provides the necessary information with regards to the current energy flow and the charge status of the battery.

The hybrid drive's electrical energy is provided by the high-voltage lithium-ion battery that provides 0.8kWh, allowing the E 300 to run on electric power alone up to 35kph and for up to one kilometre.

Space-saving installation of the drive in the engine compartment in place of the conventional starter battery means that the generous interior dimensions and the luggage compartment capacity remain unchanged.

In addition to serving as an energy accumulator for the electric motor, the lithium-ion battery is also connected via the voltage converter to the 12V on-board electrical system, which supplies power to standard power-consuming devices such as the headlamps and other comfort features.

Similar to the E 400, the E 300 BlueTEC Hybrid is equipped with an AMG Sports package that includes 18-inch 5-Twin spoke alloy wheels with mixed tyres.

The AMG body styling consists of an AMG-designed front, rear aprons and side skirts.

Additional features include larger front brake discs, a twin exhaust system with rectangular stainless steel pipes integrated into the rear bumper.

Within the cabin is the AMG Sport steering wheel complete with paddle shifters, brushed stainless steel sports pedals with rubber studs and AMG velour floor mats.

Electronic wizardry comes in the form of a Hands-free Access – enabling the boot lid to be opened by simply holding your foot beneath the bumper.

The E 300 gets a 360-degree surround view camera, which covers all four sides of the vehicle, for a uniform all-round view (including a virtual bird's eye view) with guidelines to help with entering and leaving parking spaces as well as manoeuvring.

Also provided is the Comand Online multimedia system (capable of connecting to the internet) for the E-Class with a 17.8cm high-resolution colour display with hard-disc navigation and a DVD changer.

The Rear Seat Entertainment System includes two 20.3cm displays integrated into the rear of the front seat’s headrests and includes a pair of wireless headphones.

As standard, the list of safety systems in the E 300 BlueTEC Hybrid features the Collision Prevention Assist, which is a radar-based collision warning system with an adaptive brake assist system and helps to reduce the risk of a rear-end collision.

Also included is the Attention Assist, which is able to warn of inattentiveness and drowsiness across a wider speed range, and also inform the driver about their level of fatigue and the amount of driving time that has elapsed since the last break and offers an adjustable sensitivity level.

Last but not least, is the Active Parking Assist, which allows for automated parking with active steering and brake control in both parallel and end-on spaces.

"The E 300 BlueTEC Hybrid is the first diesel hybrid model from a premium manufacturer, which also marks the return of Mercedes-Benz’s diesel engines in Malaysia,” said , Mercedes-Benz Malaysia president and CEO Roland S. Folger.


Nissan 370Z Nismo Roadster concept and LMP1 racecar unveiled

                CHICAGO: It’s about time Nissan Motorsport (NISMO) came out with their version of the Nissan 370Z Nismo Roadster Concept and its new GT-R LM Nismo racecar, both of which were unveiled at this year’s Chicago Auto Show.

The concept is currently a design-study that gets GT-R-inspired fully-functional and integrated aerodynamic body pieces that include Hyper-LED daytime running lights, black headlight bezels, Nismo emblems and signature red stripe accents.

Specifically, it receives red accents found on the sideview mirror covers, leather-wrapped fixed headrest bars and an exclusive custom carbon-fibre rear spoiler.

Inside, the Recaro leather-appointed seats with red stitching and off-white premium Ultrasuede inserts not only holds its passengers and driver in place, but is also stain-repellant and resists heat build-up.

Also found are custom red stitches, NISMO logo, an Alcantara-appointed leather-wrapped three-spoke steering wheel and tachometer in red.

In terms of technology, the concept gets Nissan’s navigation system embedded within its 7.0-inch VGA touchscreen display, a rear view monitor as well as a six-speaker sound system with dual subwoofers from Bose.

Under the hood, lies the 3.7-litre V6 engine providing 18bhp more than the standard 370Z at 346bhp while torque is rated at 374Nm, thanks in part to the H-configured exhaust system.

A seven-speed automatic transmission comes with downshift rev matching, adaptive shift control, manual shift mode and paddle shifters.

In the handling department, the concept has been fitted with Nismo’s strut town brace under the hood and gets its independent suspension stiffened springs and more rigid stabilizer bars.

Additionally, it will roll on 19-inch Rays lightweight forged aluminium-alloys that are fitted with Bridgestone Potenza S001 245/40 (front) and 285/35 (rear) tyres.

Larger Nissan sport brakes and a viscous limited-slip differential (VLSD) - with a shorter final drive ratio for better acceleration purposes, have also been included.

In addition, Nissan also took the opportunity to introduce its latest Le Mans racecar, dubbed the Nissan GT-R LM Nismo and will mark the Japanese carmaker’s return to the prestigious race after a 16-year hiatus.

The racecar departs from the traditional mid-engine rear-wheel powered (MR) setup and has instead opted for a front-engine front-wheel drive (FF) approach with a 3.0-litre turbocharged V6 petrol engine.

However, a kinetic energy recovery system (KERS) may direct some power to the narrower nine-inch wide rear tyres (front: 14 inches) - depending on traction needs.

The combined output of petrol engine and KERS puts out approximately 1,250bhp, for something that weighs roughly 880kg.

Nissan GT-R LM NISMO


GM explores market for electric 'flying cars', say sources

A Volocopter air taxi performing a demonstration in Singapore last October. — Reuters

DETROIT: General Motors Co is exploring options in the aerial taxi market, including whether to build the vehicles known colloquially as "flying cars," as part of a push by the US automaker to look for growth in related transportation markets, two people familiar with the matter said.

Chief executive Mary Barra on Monday briefly made her first reference ever to Detroit-based GM’s interest in the air taxi market, saying that it fit with development of electric vehicles (EVs) and its Ultium advanced electric battery.

“We believe strongly in our EV future and not just for vehicles,” she said at an RBC conference. “The strength and flexibility of our Ultium battery system opens doors” for many uses, she added, “including aerial mobility.”

Air taxis are vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) aircraft that use electric motors instead of jet engines. Designed to avoid the need for long runways, they have rotating wings and, in some cases, rotors in place of propellers.

Electric air taxis are likely to fly low-level routes, relieving traffic congestion on roads. But they could add to air traffic congestion as they become more popular.

GM spokesman Stuart Fowle declined to elaborate. “It’s an area we’re really excited about and looking at.”

Corporate and private investors have poured at least US$2.3 billion into more than 100 aerial vehicle startups, including drones and electric air taxis, but the technology still faces significant roadblocks to commercialisation and profitability, according to investor website PitchBook.

GM is weighing all options - whether to build, supply or partner - as it decides whether to join such automakers as Hyundai Motor, Toyota Motor Corp, Daimler AG, Volkswagen AG and Geely Automobile in the still-developing market, said the sources, who asked not to be identified. GM could make an announcement early next year.

“I am not surprised that GM and others are looking into this,” said investor and corporate adviser Evangelos Simoudis, managing director of Synapse Partners. He noted that companies like Amazon.com and Walmart are pushing to use package delivery drones, but said transporting people with flying cars will take a lot longer to develop as a business.

GM’s study of the aerial mobility market is part of the push by GM’s innovation group to explore other transportation markets for growth, one of the sources said. The group is headed by Alan Wexler, who reports to Barra and was hired in July in the newly created position of senior vice president of innovation and growth.

Other efforts that originated in the innovation group include formation of a defence business unit and a US$214 million contract to build troop carriers for the US Army based on the Chevrolet Colorado pickup, as well as a new mobile app for OnStar members.

Hyundai teamed up with Uber Technologies Inc in January to develop electric air taxis and has pledged to invest US$1.5 billion in urban air mobility by 2025.

Toyota led a US$590 million investment round in air taxi startup Joby in January, while Daimler and Geely have invested in Stuttgart-based Volocopter. Volkswagen's Porsche brand is working with Boeing to develop a concept electric flying vehicle.

Last year, Tesla CEO Elon Musk called electric supersonic VTOL a "hard problem," and last month said a more powerful battery that could enable electric airplanes was three to four years away. Musk has said "many exciting things" will be unveiled during Tesla's Battery Day on Sept 22.

Separately on Tuesday, the World Economic Forum and the city of Los Angeles released a set of principles to support the rollout of urban air mobility in US cities, and a spokesman for the organisation said it is talks with other cities to adopt the same roadmap.


KL, Selangor, Johor and Penang under CMCO from March 5

                PUTRAJAYA: The movement control order placed on Selangor, Kuala Lumpur, Johor and Penang will be switched to conditional MCO, announces Senior Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob.

He said this will take effect for 14 days beginning March 5.

He said Melaka, Pahang, Terengganu, Sabah, Putrajaya, Labuan and Perlis will be under recovery MCO.

Kedah, Kelantan, Negri Sembilan, Sarawak and Perak remains under conditional MCO.

The Senior Minister also announced that inter-district travel within a state will be allowed, with the exception of Sabah.

“However, inter-state travel will still not be allowed yet,” he said today.


Do you live in one of the world's worst places for gridlock? Here's how the cities stack up

                SEATTLE: American drivers spent an average of 41 hours sitting in traffic last year, at a cost of US$305 billion, or an average of US$1,445 per driver.

The city with the world's worst traffic congestion? Los Angeles holds that dubious distinction, followed by Moscow, New York, Sao Paulo and San Francisco.

That's according to the Global Traffic Scorecard, which analysed the impact of traffic congestion in 1,360 cities across 38 countries around the world. (Malaysia is not featured in the survey)

Overall, the US emerged the most congested country in the developed world, accounting for 10 of the top 25 cities worldwide with the worst traffic congestion.

As many an Angeleno can attest, the City of Angels was deemed the worst city in the world for gridlock, with drivers spending 102 hours sitting in bumper to bumper traffic in 2017.

It's the sixth year in a row that Los Angeles has held this title.

Tying for second place, Muscovites and New Yorkers spent an average of 91 hours in traffic, followed by Sao Paulo (86 hours) and San Francisco (79 hours).

The findings were published by connected car and transportation analytics company INRIX.

Meanwhile, at the country level, Thailand emerged the leader with drivers spending an average of 56 hours in peak congestion. Indonesia and Colombia round out the podium, at 51 and 49 hours respectively.

Here are the results:

Global city:

1. Los Angeles
2. Moscow
2. New York City
4. Sao Paulo
5. San Francisco
6. Bogota
7. London
8. Atlanta
9. Paris
10. Miami

Global country:

1. Thailand
2. Indonesia
3. Colombia
4. Venezuela
5. Russia
6. US
7. Brazil
8. South Africa
9. Turkey
10. UK


SUV demand driving up BMW sales

The X7 Concept shown at the 2017 Frankfurt Motor Show in September.
MUNICH: BMW announced on Monday that for the first time in its 101-year history, it has sold over 2 million vehicles in just 10 months.

The figures include sales of the company's core BMW brand, plus those of MINI and BMW motorcycles but exclude Rolls-Royce sales. Nevertheless, between January and October the firm has delivered 2,008,849 vehicles globally.

"Our sales results for the first 10 months confirm the broad range and appeal of our model line-up," said Dr Ian Robertson, the company's global head of sales and brand.

 X2.

Ignoring MINI and motorbike sales, the total figure includes 1,706,020 BMWs. And while demand for the 1 Series and 5 Series and bigger 7 Series executive sedans are strong, the biggest demand is for the company's quickly expanding X-range of SUVs, or Sports Activity Vehicles, as the company prefers to call them.

Over the past 10 months there has been an 11.3% jump in demand for BMW-badged SUVs equating to 578,336 unit sales. All of which explains why the company recently launched a compact X2 coupe-esque crossover and is getting ready to launch a range-topping X7 luxury off-roader complete with three rows of seats.

However, this apparently insatiable demand for all things SUV could backfire. If demand continues at the same rate, then the company that stands for sporting dynamics and for building true race-bred drivers' cars will be selling more SUVs than Land Rover, a company that sells off-roaders and only off-roaders. In January this year, Land Rover also reported record sales, of 434,583 cars sold in a 12-month period for the first time in history.


This Wmoto scooter is 250cc and will launch in 2022

                GEORGE TOWN: Mforce Bike Holdings has announced that it will be launching the next Wmoto Xtreme scooter in 2022.

According to the company, the Xtreme 250cc scooter follows up on the success of the Xtreme 150i and caters to those seeking more advanced and sophisticated specifications, technology and appearance.

Since its July 11 launch, the RM9,588 Xtreme 150i has sold well, Mforce Bike Holdings said in a statement without breaking out the numbers.

The Penang company makes and distributes motorcycles under homegrown brands Wmoto and SM Sport. It is also the Malaysian distributor for foreign brands namely Benelli, Keeway, SYM, Brixton and Niu motorcycles.

The Xtreme 250cc forms part of Mforce Bike Holdings' five-year product rollout.

The scooter is now undergoing endurance testing and is obtaining Vehicle Type Approval from the Road Transport Department.


Down on chips, Toyota goes back to basics with car keys

                TOKYO: Toyota Motor Corp has discovered that even keys can be too "smart" for their own good.

The world's top-selling carmaker said today it would replace one of the two electronic "smart" keys it delivers in Japan with a mechanical one for the time being as it races to get cars to customers in Japan.

"As the shortage of semiconductors continues, this is a provisional measure aimed at delivering cars to customers as quickly as possible," Toyota said in a statement, apologising for the inconvenience.

"As for the second smart key, we plan to hand it over as soon as it is ready," it added.

A global chips shortage has caused a severe delay in car production and shipments, with many buyers having to wait years to get theirs delivered.

Toyota has been hit particularly hard this year, with natural disasters and other disruptions adding to their troubles.

Last week, the maker of Toyota and Lexus models warned that it would probably be unable to build the 9.7 million vehicles it had initially forecast for the current business year.


Govt to have last say on PLUS, says Dr M

                BANGKOK: The government will have the last say on whether Khazanah Nasional Berhad should sell its stake in PLUS Malaysia Berhad, Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad said today.

“Khazanah belongs to the government, so the last say will come from the government.

“If Khazanah can manage and settle (PLUS) loans, this will be good for the government and we will talk Khazanah.

Khazanah managing director Datuk Shahril Ridza Ridzuan had said Khazanah, which owns 51% of PLUS, has received multiple offers for the highway operator and turned all of them down.

Dr Mahathir who is here for the 35th Asean Summit was asked on Khazanah insisting it had no interest in selling Plus, the country’s biggest expressway toll firm.

The Prime Minister said if there were potential suitors who can take over PLUS loans it would be good for the government.


BMW offers first details of electric i7

                MUNICH: Mercedes-Benz has its EQS; BMW has its i7.

BMW revealed at its annual conference on Wednesday some details of its flagship electric sedan ahead of its world premiere in April.

BMW AG board member for development Frank Weber delivered the presentation with a focus on technology highlights, a new front-end design based on hallmark BMW design features and a unique interior experience consisting of digital features and exclusive materials.

Come April, the Munich car maker will present the all-electric i7 and with it the entire new 7 Series. The i7 has a range of more than 600km.

Weber said the i7 would be the most powerful 7 Series, touting that it offers "the best driving experience with the ultimate digital experience".

In the i7, the characteristic design elements of twin round headlights and BMW grille have been revamped to achieve a modern and distinctive look. Some of the special design statements are upper light elements made of crystal glass and the illuminated contour of the kidney grille.

In the interior, the focus is on the user experience created with new My Modes and the latest generation of the iDrive operating system.

My Modes enable the driver to customise the car’s driving characteristics and interior ambience.

In addition to the BMW Curved Display, a new type of light and function strip on the instrument panel and the doors provides a visual and haptic quality that is modern and exclusive.

The BMW Interaction Bar is part of the ambient lighting and also features integrated control buttons.

In addition, the newly developed Sky Lounge panoramic glass roof adds to the feeling of spaciousness, modernity and well-being that prevails in the interior of the new BMW 7 Series with LED light threads that can be individually adjusted.

The rear of the i7 is said to offer new levels of travel comfort and sets new entertainment standards offering a unique cinematic experience.

The BMW Theatre Screen, which moves out of the roof liner, is an ultra-wide screen with a 31 inch screen, 32 : 9 panoramic display format and 8K streaming resolution.

BMW said it transforms the rear seats into an exclusive, private cinema lounge where passengers can select their personal entertainment programme from a range of streaming offers.

On a different note, it looks like Mercedes-Benz may beat BMW from the starting block in being the first to market in Malaysia with its EQS. It is already soliciting expressions of interest from Malaysians as evident on its local website.


What to look out for at Geneva show (updated with Gallery)

                Although the most prestigious event of the annual autoshow agenda doesn't officially open its doors to the public until March 5, many car companies have already offered a sneak peek of what to expect, and this year it's shaping up to be all about hot hatches and hypercars.

That doesn't mean that there won't be a host of new SUVs, crossovers or intelligently packaged city cars on display. Indeed, BMW has chosen Geneva as the venue for the official unveiling of its premium compact seven-seat MPV, the 2 Series Gran Tourer.

But, as clever as it is, the 2 Series Gran Tourer will have a hard time being heard over the din that will no doubt be created by a host of supercar makers.

Ferrari will be taking the wraps off its first ever mid-engine turbocharged V8, the 488GTB.

An evolution of the company's phenomenal 458 Italia, the new car turns up the style and the performance -- 661bhp (up by 99) and a test track lap time of 1 minute, 23 seconds (2 seconds faster) -- but also cuts harmful emissions and fuel consumption figures thanks to the turbochargers.

Arch rival Porsche will be showing off two hardcore track-focused cars the Cayman GT4 and its big brother, the 911 GT3 RS both of which are bound to get the company's biggest fans worked up into hysterics.

British supercar upstart, McLaren will also be hoping to cause jaws to drop. From out of nowhere, it has announced it will be showing off an all new model, the 675LT which, if it lives up to the hype, will be stunningly fast and stunningly good-looking.

However, in terms of sheer spectacle no one will be able to come close to Koenigsegg, the outlandish Swedish car company. It will be launching not one, but two new incredibly fast cars at the show, one of which, the Regera is being described as a megacar because calling it a hypercar would be an insult to its performance capabilities.

But as well as a potential supercar showdown, Geneva will be playing host to some super fast, super practical and super affordable new cars, too.

The hot hatchback, a car segment invented by Volkswagen with the Mark I GTi Golf nearly 40 years ago, is still very much alive and well.

This year's show will see Honda displaying the finished production version of the Civic Type R, which can purportedly hit a 269kph top speed, and Ford attempting to set new standards in the segment with the third-generation Focus RS. It boasts a 315bhp engine and is the first ever RS with four-wheel drive to ensure that all of that power goes to the road.

But perhaps the one to watch will be the Audi RS3, which, like the Focus, has permanent four-wheel drive but doesn't look like set dressing from the "Fast and the Furious."

In fact it's a lesson in hot hatchback subtlety in all but vital statistics. It can go from 0-100kPh in 4.3 seconds, can hit a top speed of 280kph) and its engine can generate 362bhp.

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Peugeot to test driverless cars in Singapore

                SINGAPORE: French automaker PSA said Wednesday it was teaming up with nuTonomy to integrate the US startup's software into one of its vehicles for on-road testing of fully autonomous cars in Singapore.

nuTonomy will install its software, along with sensors and computing platforms, into customised Peugeot 3008 vehicles, with the vehicles expected to hit the streets in September.

A company spun off from MIT, a leading US research university, nuTonomy has been behind a public trial of driverless taxis that got underway in Singapore last year, although engineers rode along to take over in case of a problem.

READ MORE:CarSifu drove the regular Peugeot 3008

"We're confident that working with Groupe PSA will bring us closer to our goal of deploying a safe, efficient, fully autonomous mobility-on-demand transportation service for urban driving environments," nuTonomy's chief executive Karl lagnemma said in a statement.

The two companies said the integration of driverless technology into production model vehicles was an important part of their partnership as it will be critical for their introduction on a wider scale.

The crossover Peugeot 3008 SUV is a much larger vehicle than the nuTonomy vehicles currently in use in Singapore.

"This collaboration is a significant step towards fully autonomous vehicles, which will enable us to offer different mobility solutions to our customers," said Anne Laliron, head of the automaker's experimental unit.

The companies said they will consider expanding on-road testing to other major cities around the world following the initial phase of this partnership.


Moto Guzzi introduces Audace and Eldorado

                MILAN: Moto Guzzi's latest brace of premium road bikes, the rebellious Audace and the refined Eldorado, are an example of how changing one ingredient of a classic recipe can make a huge impact.

The Audace and the Eldorado both have the same powerplant, protruding on either side of what is essentially the same frame, which is in itself based on the company's flagship California. And yet, both bikes have different personalities.

Audace
Despite its ups and downs as a marque over the decades, one Moto Guzzi business decision has remained - the development of its 1,400cc "big block" transversely mounted V-Twin - the biggest engine of its kind built in Europe.

Sitting in the Audace and powering the oversized 200/60 tyre-wrapped rear wheel that V-Twin takes on a very muscular feeling. That sense of power is accentuated by the ground clearance levels, the position and shape of the drag handlebars and of the foot pegs.

Then there's the way the frame has been adorned. The headlight surround is round and lightweight, the front mudguard carbon and the front forks don't have the usual telescopic cover. In fact there's no chrome plating at all. It has been replaced by matte or carbon finishes changing the bike's character completely. As does the sportier, lower saddle and the completely adjustable rear shocks.

Eldorado
What the Audace tries to hide, its sister bike, the Eldorado turns into a design feature. That same glorious engine, transversely mounted in the same frame, but sitting on slightly smaller 16-inch spoked wheels with white wall tires is now the centerpiece of an elegant but rapid cruiser.

The bike's oversized saddle and bullhorn handlebars ensuring that comfort is top of the bill, even if like the Audance, the Eldorado has ABS, traction control and three engine mapping settings - Turismo, Veloce and Pioggia - for getting the most out of it whether making progress or sitting back and enjoying the scenery.

In terms of styling, despite plenty of chrome, the bike doesn't look brash. The white coachlines that trace a pattern across side panels, footboards and the fuel tank add to elegance as do the wraparound mudguards and gem-shaped rear light cluster.

Moto Guzzi is also launching a new connected multimedia platform, MG-MP, that allows owners to connect their bike to their smartphones turning the handset into a remote on-board computer that can be used to gauge everything from average fuel economy to torque curves.

The Audance and the Eldorado will be the first Moto Guzzis to offer the platform - compatible with Apple and Android smartphones - as an optional extra.


Jaguar E-PACE gets a refresh

                LONDON: The new Jaguar E-PACE has a refreshed exterior, enhanced interior, the latest Pivi Pro infotainment, new vehicle architecture and a choice of powerful and efficient engines including an advanced Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) powertrain.

Its enhanced exterior consists of the aerodynamically optimised bumper, revised lower apertures and state-of-the-art LED headlights combine with new grille design for an assertive presence.

The upgraded interior features the  intuitive new Pivi Pro infotainment, exquisite details and contemporary design to create a tranquil cabin space.

Powertrain-wise it has the new three-cylinder petrol PHEV which provides all-electric range of up to 55km, combined CO2 emissions from 44g/km and is capable of a 0-80% charge in as little as 30 minutes (32kW or greater DC public charging).

The new E-PACE also has mild-hybrid technology with the next-generation 2.0-litre four-cylinder Ingenium diesel, new 1.5-litre three-cylinder and latest 2.0-litre four-cylinder Ingenium petrol engines feature MHEV technology.

Jaguar’s sophisticated Pivi Pro dual-sim set-up is accessed through an all-new 11.4-inch HD curved-glass touchscreen.

Software-Over-The-Air capability ensures latest vehicle systems and infotainment are installed and updated seamlessly and remotely.

The cabin air ionisation with PM2.5 filtration captures ultrafine particles and allergens for improved air quality inside.

The new vehicle architecture delivers enhanced refinement and improved ride comfort while maximising the compact performance SUV’s agility.

Mated to smooth shifting automatic transmissions – Jaguar’s all-wheel drive system features Intelligent Driveline Dynamics, and now has driveline disconnect as standard for improved efficiency.

The range topping E-PACE 300 SPORT features Active Driveline AWD and Adaptive Dynamics as standard, and can reach 0-60mph in 6.6 secs.

The new Jaguar E-PACE is priced from £32,575 (RM175,800) in the UK.


CNY safety message: Heed road rules

                PETALING JAYA: As some two million motorists are expected to take to the roads during the Chinese New Year exodus, the Road Safety Department wants them to remember the 10 golden rules of safe driving.

They should obey the speed limit, be careful when overtaking, signal before changing lanes, not jump queues, be considerate and keep their cool, to name a few.

Its director-general Datuk Dr Tam Weng Wah also advised road users to always take a proactive approach, to ensure safe and smooth travel during the festive season.

He said they should plan their journeys, especially those making long trips.

 Dr Tam

“Do not wait till the last minute. Early planning will enable them to make sure that their vehicles are in the best condition, especially the brakes and tyres,” he said.

Road users should always stick to the speed limit and should slow down when the weather turns bad.

“No one should be going fast on a rainy day even if the speed limit is 110kph,” he said.

Dr Tam also reminded road users to be extra careful when overtaking and not to do so when approaching curves.

When changing lanes, he said, motorists should first check the view in the respective side mirror and then signal with the indicator before moving to the next lane.

Dr Tam also advised motorists not to tailgate or to run a red light.

“If you reach the spot where the vehicle in front of you was in less than two seconds, you are following too close to it,” he said.

Jumping queues, weaving in and out of traffic, and being reluctant to give way to other vehicles could also cause an accident, he warned.

He said heavy vehicles, lorry trailers and express buses should always give way to the smaller vehicles.

“Be considerate drivers,” he said.

Apart from that, the department also urged road users to always buckle up their safety belts when on the move and to not use their mobile phones while driving.

Its road safety campaign was aimed at spreading caution in the community through advice and was an effective method aside from law enforcement, it said.

Its message is that even minor accidents can bring hurt to the victims, their family and friends, as well as society.

Dr Tam expects the highways to be busy with increased traffic from Feb 14 to 22, adding that heavy vehicles will be banned from using them on Feb 17 and 18.

Chinese New Year falls on Feb 19 and 20.


Limited edition VW Beetles gone in 20mins on Lazada

                KUALA LUMPUR: Less than 20 minutes was all it took for 12 limited edition Volkswagen Beetles to get snapped up while being featured on one of Malaysia's popular online shopping site, Lazada.

Each of the Beetle was priced at RM112,112 (on-the-road with GST without insurance) with the first one being sold just 26 seconds after midnight.

VPCM had collaborated with Lazada to offer Malaysians 12 limited-edition Volkswagen Beetles on Lazada’s Online Revolution mega-sale from Dec 12 to 14.

Two limited edition designs were available, the “Herbie 53” in Pure White and White Silver, and the “Hot Bug” in Tornado Red.

To lock down their unit, customers had to purchase an exclusive RM5,000 'Welcome Kit' on Lazada, which also doubled as a pre-payment booking fee.

"We are delighted to have really pushed boundaries and made history with this collaboration – to be able to sell 12 cars within such a short period of time is amazing. This truly is a testament of how receptive Malaysians are when it comes to
online purchasing,” said VPCM managing director Erik Winter.

The limited edition Beetles, and all Volkswagen vehicles, come with a five-year manufacturer warranty and five-year roadside assistance coverage.

Log on to www.volkswagen.com.my for more information.


Skoda shows off its electric mobility plans with SUV concept

                PRAGUE: Czech manufacturer Skoda says it plans to launch three new electric cars by 2026 and has unveiled an SUV concept that gives us a glimpse at its plans for electric mobility.

The Vision 7S study presented here is said to be an early look at the design of Skoda's planned flagship SUV, a three-row seven-seater with a length of almost five metres. Skoda also talked up their plans for a newly designed interior with more variability.

In the concept SUV, Skoda has implemented a so-called relax mode, in addition to the usual drive mode, in which the steering wheel retracts and the seats in the first row can be swivelled inwards. Suitability for series production: questionable.

There's also a huge screen in front of the centre console that can be rotated and used as a kind of cinema screen for breaks.

Also new is an optional child seat fixed between the first and second row on the centre tunnel, which Skoda says is the safest place in the whole car.

While the design and layout of the concept are new, the Vision 7S relies on familiar technology and uses the VW Group's Modular Electric Building Kit (MEB) with two as yet unclassified motors for all-wheel drive. It also has a range of at least 600km on an 89kWh battery.

Charging speed of up to 200kW is set to be made possible by market launch in two to three years, meaning drivers will have to take significantly shorter breaks at charging points than with the Enyaq.


Matrix lights to get supermini-class debut on new electric Opel Corsa

                FRANKFURT: Opel is getting ready to release its next Corsa — and of course, it's going to be electrified.

But what is more interesting is that the new five-door hatchback, set for an autumn release, will be the first in its segment to be equipped with so-called matrix headlamps, the manufacturer says.

The new Corsa, which will share a platform with the next Peugeot 208 among others, will also be available as a fully electric car from launch — another Corsa first.

With matrix headlamps, individually controllable LED elements continuously adjust the light cone to the traffic conditions so that the driver has the best possible view without dazzling the vehicle in front or oncoming traffic.

So far, Opel has only offered such headlamps in the compact and mid-size classes, like most other car manufacturers.


March 16-22: Fuel prices stay unchanged

                KUALA LUMPUR: The retail prices of RON97 and RON95 petrol and diesel will remain unchanged for the period from March 16-22.

The Finance Ministry, in a statement today, said that RON97 petrol remains at RM3.35 per litre, RON95 (RM2.05) and diesel (RM2.15).

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


DBKL and Miros seek to impose 30kph and 50kph speed limits

                PETALING JAYA: The Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) and the Malaysian Institute of Road Safety Research (Miros) will work together to introduce speed limits of 30kph and 50kph for selected zones.

Miros tweeted that its board of directors’ chairman, Datuk Suret Singh, and its director-general, Datuk Dr Khairil Anwar Abu Kassim, paid a courtesy visit to Kuala Lumpur mayor Datuk Seri Mahadi Che Ngah today.

Suret, in a tweet said that DBKL and Miros would work together to make the speed limit of 30kph for selected zones and 50kph for others a reality.

“We also discussed sharing CCTV data on traffic offences,” he tweeted today.


New Bentley Flying Spur's touchscreen remote is luxury for fingertips

                LONDON: The new Flying Spur’s multi-functional Touch Screen Remote is being touted to afford rear seat occupants unprecedented control over the car’s extensive range of luxury features with redefined precision control over passenger comfort.

Encapsulating the remarkable details with the use of latest generation technology to define the user experience of the Flying Spur’s handcrafted cabin, its Touch Screen Remote (TSR) has been finished in polished metal embellished with diamond knurling.

At the touch of a button, the TSR deploys itself from above the rear centre console that's held in place by integrated magnets for the rear seat passengers.

The handheld TSR comes with a quad-core processor and 1GB of onboard RAM with a 1280 x 720-pixel display to form the interface.

The TSR comes equipped with a three-axis accelerometer and a proximity sensor combined with haptic feedback and a 3200mAh Lithium-Polymer battery for longer-lasting operation.

From the comfort of their seat, passengers are able to configure their 14-way adjustable backrest and cushion and control the six-setting seat heating and ventilation system as well as the five massage functions and an armrest heating system from the single screen.

The TSR also grants passengers full control of the air conditioning functions individually for both sides of the rear passenger compartment, including fan speed, temperature, air distribution and ionisers.

Cabin lighting can be controlled either by day or by night where the TSR controls the Flying Spur’s glass-to-glass panoramic sunroof and windows to allow natural light to flood the cabin.

Alternatively, for a more subdued setting and for greater privacy, the Panoramic Sunshade and Rear Window Blinds are just a touch away.

With optional Mood Lighting, rear seat occupants can tailor the ambient colour and intensity to their personal choice while storing the preferred settings as favourites.

The optional 2,200W 18-speaker 'Naim for Bentley' audio system is also accessible via the TSR.

Not to mention, rear seat occupants can access a variety of driver information via the TSR that includes current speed, journey information, outside temperature and a complete navigation interface.

As a final feature, the Flying Spur’s Flying B mascot that adorns the bonnet can be retracted or deployed via the TSR, allowing the user to modify the front face of their car on demand.


Lexus teases all-electric RZ SUV

                DALLAS: Lexus is coming out with a new electric SUV called the RZ.

A teaser video it recently released shows the vehicle exterior's from different angles and that was all Lexus would reveal.

The RZ would be the third electric car that shares the new e-TNGA platform as the Toyota bZ4X and Subaru Solterra.

Lexus already has the all-electric UX300e but it was based on the ICE version of the UX, which means compromises have to be made in terms of space, equipment and technology.

The RZ features a full-length light bar in keeping with current Lexus design and has a ducktail spoiler for a sporty look.

It will also have dual charging ports above the front wheels like the Porsche Taycan for better charging flexibility.

The RZ will launch by June 2022.


Toyota, China's CATL team up for new energy vehicle batteries

                TOKYO: Toyota Motor Corp has agreed to partner with China’s Contemporary Amperex Technology Co Ltd (CATL) to supply and develop batteries for new energy vehicles.

The Japanese automaker said today that the firms had also started talks covering a range of areas including new technology development and the reuse and recycling of batteries.

“To further promote the widespread use of electrified vehicles, CATL and Toyota agree that a stable supply of batteries is critical and that battery technology must be further developed and advanced,” Toyota said in a statement.

Japan’s largest automaker has said it aims to get half of its global sales from electrified vehicles by 2025, five years ahead of schedule, and last month flagged it would partner with CATL and BYD Co Ltd, another Chinese firm, for battery procurement.

The move illustrates the breakneck growth in the electric vehicle market, which is transforming the auto industry, and is also an acknowledgment by Toyota that it might not be able to meet demand for batteries on its own.

Tapping CATL also signals a widening of Toyota’s procurement pool. The Chinese firm already has relationships with other automakers such as Honda Motor and a multi-billion dollar battery-supply deal with Volvo.


A new Ghost is coming and Rolls-Royce CEO pens an open letter

                LONDON: Rolls-Royce's chief executive officer Torsten Müller-Ötvös has issued an open letter to drum up some buzz ahead of the new Ghost debut.

Below is the message he wanted to put across:

Dear Reader,

The launch of a new Rolls-Royce is unquestionably a historic moment. However, presenting a new Ghost carries with it tremendous responsibility. Our new Ghost, which will debut in autumn, follows the first-ever Goodwood Ghost, which, since its launch in 2009, has become the most successful model in the marque’s 116-year  history.

Indeed, such was its timeless appeal, it enjoyed a lifespan of more than a decade. A truly remarkable achievement.

As we reached the final development stages of this our new product, we were faced with the coronavirus pandemic. This invisible enemy cast a grave and stubborn shadow on the world. At Rolls-Royce, we kept our spirits up.
 Müller-Ötvös.

With the utmost focus on the wellbeing of our people at the Home of Rolls-Royce in Goodwood, and around the world, we carefully and responsibly continued work on finalising this remarkable motor car.

The experience reminded us that Rolls-Royce, with the iconic Spirit of Ecstasy at its prow, has endured with resilience and continues to serve as a symbol of ambition and endeavour.

To create a product that would resonate with our Ghost clients for the next ten years meant that we had to listen very carefully to their demands and desires. And we did so. They told us that they very much enjoyed Ghost’s versatility and breadth of character. It is a car they enjoyed driving themselves – or to be driven in should the occasion call for a chauffeur.

They also appreciated the car’s pared-back simplicity, or as they put it, “a slightly smaller, less ostentatious means to own a Rolls-Royce”.

Going further, our clients expressed an ardent desire for even more minimalism in design. This demand resonated with findings of our Luxury Intelligence Unit and designers at the Home of Rolls-Royce in Goodwood, West Sussex who, for some years had been tracking an emerging contemporary movement within a particular layer of luxury consumers, which included our Ghost clients, and which we called ‘Post Opulence’.

We found that these clients are showing a marked tendency towards luxury objects that celebrate reduction and restraint – that don’t shout, but rather, whisper. They are seeking design purity by rejecting obvious and unnecessary embellishments and overt complication.

To complement this minimalism, our Ghost clients require innovative but effortless technology and real engineering substance in their car.

Of course, there will always be a place in this world, and at Rolls-Royce, for items and products of opulence that express the very best of human endeavour, inspire greatness and present a sense of theatre and magic. But we at Rolls-Royce remain alert for any signs of a recalibration of need within layers of the global luxury marketplace.

And so, five years ago, we set about the creation of our new Ghost. And such was the task that the only components we deemed fit to carry over were the Spirit of Ecstasy and umbrellas. Everything else is entirely new.

The car has been designed, engineered, and crafted from the ground up at our Global Centre of Luxury Manufacturing Excellence in Goodwood, West Sussex, to answer the express wishes and desires of a post-opulent group of clients.

Ghost is the purest expression of Rolls-Royce yet. It distils the pillars of our brand into a beautiful, minimalist, yet highly complex product that is perfectly in harmony with our Ghost clients’ needs and, I believe, perfectly in tune with the times in which we are all living.

Rolls-Royce will always continue driving forward. Our company will be neither defined nor limited by the temporary constraints of the times. We will continue planning for a better tomorrow with positivity and hope, striving for perfection and producing powerful symbols that inspire greatness and ambition.

In this spirit, we invite you to experience our new Ghost in the next few months. More details of this historic moment will follow over the coming weeks, beginning with a series of four beautiful animations, detailing rare insights into the lifestyles and behaviour of our Ghost client layer, and the tremendous technical substance underpinning what we believe is the most sublime expression of Rolls-Royce yet.

These informative pieces will culminate in a fully digital debut of new Ghost to be followed by numerous client, media and public events around the world.

Thank you.

Stay Safe and Keep Your Spirits Up!

Torsten Müller-Ötvös


Petrol prices down 5 sen, diesel unchanged for September

                PETALING JAYA: Petrol prices for September will go down by five sen per litre, but diesel prices remain the same.

Petrol prices for RON95 will be RM1.70 per litre, while RON97 will be RM2.05 per litre. However, the price of diesel remains unchanged at RM1.70 per litre.

Petroleum Dealers Association of Malaysia deputy president Datuk Zulkifli Mokti confirmed this on Wednesday.

The Domestic Trade, Cooperatives and Consumerism Ministry decided to set the prices of petrol and diesel on a managed float system from Dec 1, 2014 following the removal of fuel subsidies.


Cadillac's 3-row XT6 SUV loses camouflage for 2019 Detroit Auto Show

The XT5 soon won't be the biggest in Cadillac's crossover line-up.
DETROIT: Cadillac confirmed this week that the forthcoming XT6 crossover SUV will be unveiled at the Detroit Auto Show next month.

The Caddy that we got a camouflaged sneak peek at a couple months ago has been confirmed for the Detroit Auto Show in January according to Automotive News.

The XT6 SUV is expected to fill the vacancy in the Cadillac portfolio between the midsize XT5 crossover and the full-size Escalade, featuring three-rows of sets like its bigger sibling.

Given the way the market is turning towards crossover SUVs, it comes as a surprise that this model has taken so long to make an appearance, especially since GM announced that the XTS and CT6 sedans are soon to be discontinued as plants begin to close next year. Automotive industry watchers suggest that it's about time Cadillac further embraces the SUV movement.

Opening day of the Detroit Auto Show is Jan 13, so we can expect to see the model camouflage-free then or or likely during the preliminary press days. It's expected to hit dealer showrooms around the middle of 2019.

The Detroit show will be held in January for the last time before it is moved to June from 2020.


Works Ministry aims to hasten opening up of digital toll payment systems

                ALOR GAJAH: Negotiations for an open or multi-mode toll payment system between the Works Ministry and the Finance Ministry as well as related concessionaires are being expedited, says Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi.

The Works Minister said a pilot project to enable payments through various digital payment providers as opposed to a single provider would also be conducted as soon as possible to study the implications before the new system can be finalised.

He said the multi-mode payment system was an alternative presented by the ministry pending the implementation of the multi-lane free flow (MLFF) system which is expected to begin in 2025.

"Indeed we will do it as soon as possible (because) we have to test the system first to see if it is the best before it is used throughout the country.

"Discussions have also been made with the Finance Ministry because it will involve financial implications. After all parties are satisfied with the system, a decision will be made," he said during a press conference after officiating at the launching ceremony of the Tenaga Nasional Berhad (TNB) DC fast chargers at the Ayer Keroh Rest and Service Area (RSA) of the PLUS Expressway here on Thursday (Feb 16).

Also present were Malaysian Highway Authority (LLM) director-general Datuk Mohd Shuhaimi Hassan, PLUS Malaysia Berhad board member Datuk Mohd Izani Ghani and TNB president and chief executive officer Datuk Indera Baharin Din.

Alexander said the matter was also being expedited so that the MLFF could be implemented before the 2025 target period.

He said the ministry was currently examining technical and legal issues that need to be ironed out before the system can be fully implemented.

Commenting on electric vehicles (EV), Alexander said the government was aiming for a 15% adoption rate nationwide by 2030, in line with the Low Carbon Mobility Blueprint 2021-2030.

He said other targets set in the development plan include having 9,000 AC (alternate current) charging points and 1,000 DC (direct current) charging points nationwide by 2025, and ensuring EV fast charging points were installed at least every 100km along major highways by 2023-2025.


East Coast Expressway goes cashless

                KUANTAN: Toll collection at all nine plazas on the East Coast Expressway Phase One (LPT1) went cashless at noon today with the full implementation of the Electronic Toll Collection (ETC) system.

The toll plazas are located at Karak, Lanchang, Temerloh, Chenor, Maran, Sri Jaya, Gambang, Kuantan and Jabor.

Concessionaire Anih Berhad executive director Datuk Nik Fauzi Nik Hussein said the full implementation of the ETC system at LPT1 was proceeding smoothly.

"There was no system breakdown or congestion on our first day. Everything is going well at all 57 lanes at the toll plazas.

"This was achieved through early preparation by the company, including holding continuous promotions and awareness programmes at the LPT1.

"Cooperation from road users have also been very good," he said after accompanying Malaysian Highway Authority director-general Datuk Ismail Md Salleh in inspecting the situation at the Karak toll plaza in Bentong here Monday.

Anih Berhad had also placed staff at the lanes to assist road users.

"Besides that, the company has installed self-service kiosks at R&R in Temerloh and Gambang for users to buy or top up their Touch 'n Go cards.

"They can also buy or top up the cards at the three customer service centres at the Karak, Temerloh and Kuantan toll plazas from 7am to 10pm daily," Nik Fauzi said.

For inquiries on the ETC system, please contact LPT-Line at 09-547 9111/ 1700-818- 700 or communicate through Facebook at Lebuhraya Pantai Timur and Twitter at @LPTTrafik.


Driving institute operators warned against soliciting bribes

                SEREMBAN: Operators of driving institutes are today warned against soliciting bribes to approve public service vehicle (PSV) licence or commercial vehicle licences if they do not want their licence to be revoked.

Transport Minister Anthony Loke said the ministry was monitoring the operators.

"I’m warning these driving institutes to not test the ministry and my patience because if they are found to be soliciting payment to approve the PSV, stern action will be taken against them, including revocation of their licence,” he told reporters after opening the Negri Sembilan MyCar Office here today.

He said this in response to complaints about such acts allegedly committed by some driving institutes.

"The ministry will not compromise with any quarters on this because it affects public interest and safety," he added.


Off-peak toll rates among steps mulled

                KUALA LUMPUR: The Government is looking into lowering toll rates, implementing a flat-rate toll system and offering discounts on toll rates during off-peak periods, says Works Minister Baru Bian.

"This includes not raising tolls rates in the next two or three years," he said in reply to a supplementary question by Ahmad Fadhli Shaari (PAS-Pasir Mas) in Dewan Rakyat today.

Ahmad wanted to know if the rakyat should continue to hope there would be toll free roads, in light of a recent statement by Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad that it was not a possibility.

Baru said today the Government can't afford to abolish toll "until the government's fiscal situation has been revived to a healthier level".

On the RM6.54bil West Coast Expressway (WCE) in the peninsula, Baru said there would be 20 toll plazas along the 233km highway.

He noted that the project, which began in 2013, was 60% complete and would be opened to road users in stages next year.

Baru said the project would be completed in 2022, two years behind schedule.

He said the delay was due to issues of land acquisition and routing of the highway alignment in Tanjung Karang.


Porsche Asia Pacific debuts the new Taycan

                SINGAPORE: Two legendary icons, Porsche and Star Wars, joined forces at the Porsche Asia Pacific premiere of the new all-electric Taycan in Singapore recently.

The design teams at Porsche and Lucasfilm collaborated to design a fantasy starship in support of the upcoming Star Wars film, the final episode of the Skywalker saga.

"The Taycan links our heritage to the future. It is a fascinating sports car with exciting driving dynamics, performance and technology – and like every Porsche ever built, it comes with a soul. Something you will feel immediately, once you get behind the steering wheel,” said Arthur Willmann, managing director of Porsche Asia Pacific.

"Asia Pacific is an important sales region for Porsche – with a continuously growing customer and fan base. With the Taycan, we are entering a new era and this spirit fits perfectly with the iconic Star Wars brand and the joint event here in Singapore,” says Matthias Becker, vice president region overseas and emerging markets of Porsche AG.

The first all-electric sports car, the Taycan, marks the beginning of a new chapter for Porsche.

The flagship Turbo S version of the Taycan can generate up to 761 hp overboost power in combination with Launch Control, and the Taycan Turbo up to 680 hp.

The Taycan Turbo S accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in 2.8 seconds, while the Taycan Turbo completes this sprint in 3.2 seconds.

The Turbo S has a range of up to 412 kilometres, and the Turbo a range of up to 450 kilometres (according to WLTP in each case).

The top speed of both all-wheel-drive models is 260 km/h.

The Taycan is the first production vehicle with a system voltage of 800 volts instead of the usual 400 volts for electric cars.

This is a particular advantage for Taycan drivers on the road: in just over five minutes, the battery can be recharged using direct current (DC) from the high-power charging network for a range of up to 100 kilometres (according to WLTP).

The charging time for five to 80 percent SoC (state of charge) is 22.5 minutes for charging under ideal conditions, and the maximum charging power (peak) is 270 kW.

The overall capacity of the Performance Battery Plus is 93.4 kWh. Taycan drivers can comfortably charge their cars with up to eleven kW of alternating current (AC) at home.

The Taycan Turbo has two exceptionally efficient electric machines, one on the front axle and one on the rear axle, making the car all-wheel drive.

The two-speed transmission installed on the rear axle is an innovation developed by Porsche.

First gear gives the Taycan even more acceleration from a standing start, while second gear with a long gear ratio ensures high efficiency and equally high power reserves. This also applies at very high speeds.


BMW releases new entry-level hybrids for 3 and 5 Series

                MUNICH: BMW is expanding its plug-in hybrid line-up with the introduction of the BMW 320e and 520e, both available in Sedan and Touring bodystyles from March.

The new entry-level variants consists of a 2.0-litre 4-cylinder petrol engine with 120 kW/163hp and an electric motor.

Together they generate a system output of up to 150 kW/204 hp and have a pure electric drive top speed of 140kph.

 320e Sedan.

The intelligently controlled interaction of the combustion engine and electric motor delivers brand-typical hybrid-specific driving pleasure as well as outstanding efficiency.

The engine and electric motor combination transmit their drive torque to the rear wheels via the 8-speed Steptronic transmission or, to all four wheels as required with the help of the xDrive system.

 320e Touring.

In addition to 150 kW/204hp of system output, the spontaneous power delivery of the plug-in hybrid drive and the maximum system torque of 350Nm ensure high-level sprint capacity and sporty driving characteristics.

The new 320e Sedan accelerates from zero to 100kph in 7.6 seconds and reaches a top speed of 225kph.

The corresponding figures for the 320e Touring are 7.9 seconds and 220kph, while for the new 320e xDrive Touring are 8.2 seconds and 219kph.

 520e Sedan.

The new 520e Sedan accelerates from a standstill to 100kph in 7.9 seconds, and its top speed is 225kph.

Meanwhile, the new 520e Touring completes the same sprint in 8.2 seconds and reaches a top speed of 218kph.

The BMW manufactured lithium-ion batteries offer a gross energy content of 12.0kWh and a capacity of 34Ah.

Under the WLTP test cycle, full electric driving range  are 48 to 57km for the 320e Sedan, 46 to 54km for the 320e Touring, 41 to 55km for the 520e Sedan and 45 to 51km for the 520e Touring.

With the two standard equipment charging cables, the new plug-in hybrids can also be charged at a conventional household socket as well as at a wallbox and public charging stations.

The high-voltage battery can be charged with a maximum of 3,7kW from 0 to 80% of its total capacity in 2.6 hours and from zero to 100% in 3.6 hours.