Toyota Thailand on hybrid offensive: 4 new HEVs to roll out in 2023

                BANGKOK: Toyota Motor Thailand will launch four new hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) in 2023.

At Bangkok International Motor Show 2023, the  company's president Noriaki Yamashita said the HEVs would further meet the diverse needs of Thai customers, and reduce C02 emissions.

"Toyota introduced the Camry HEV in 2009 as the first electrified vehicle and sold around
160,000 HEVs until now. It contributed over 850,000 tonnes of CO2 reduction (equal to planting over 2.5 million trees). Now, Toyota is offering 6 electrified vehicles which are 5 HEVs and bZ4X BEV or battery electric vehicle, as a leader in electrification," he said.

The motor show is being held on 22 March – 2 April, 2023 at the Challenger Hall, Impact Arena Muang Thong Thani.

At the Toyota display area, visitors were dazzled by concept vehicles with diverse powertrains namely the Hilux Revo BEV Concept, LPG (liquefied petroleum gas) HEV Taxi Concept,  and Corolla Cross Hydrogen Concept.

Also thrilling visitors is the new Prius HEV, which went on sale in Japan in January 2023, and is powered by the latest fifth-generation hybrid system in both the 2.0-litre and 1.8-litre models.


Two men detained after failed attempt to rob women at traffic lights near Sg Buloh toll

Posed pic of a snatch theft in progress.

PETALING JAYA: Two men were detained after a failed attempt at robbing a woman at a traffic light near the Sungai Buloh toll plaza.

The victim had stopped her car at the traffic light at about 9.30am on Aug 6 when two men on a motorcycle stopped beside her vehicle before smashing her car window and grabbing her handbag.

However, the victim acted quickly and drove her car against the suspects, causing them to fall down.

Petaling Jaya OCPD Asst Comm Nik Ezanee Mohd Faisal said members of the public who were at the scene caught the suspects before handing them over to police personnel.

"We recovered the stolen handbag as well as a spark plug from the suspects' motorcycle.

"We believe they used the spark plug to smash car windows," he told a press conference today.

Police also recovered another handbag containing a MyKad and bank cards belonging to a woman, he added. "She was a victim of a similar crime in Sungai Buloh.

"Both men have past records for various criminal and drug-related offences," ACP Nik Ezanee said.

The suspects were believed to be responsible for several smash and grab cases in Klang Valley, he added.

"They have been remanded until Aug 13," he said.


Li Chunrong: Man on a (Proton) mission

                PETALING JAYA: Auto specialist Dr Li Chunrong has been working 12 hours a day, six days a week for Proton Holdings Bhd in the past 17 months to rescue the persistent loss-making company.

These long working hours may seem gruelling for many people, but for the 56-year old Chinese national who was headhunted to lead Proton, working hard to achieve his mission is in his DNA.

China’s Zhejiang Geely Holding Group sent Dr Li to Kuala Lumpur after it acquired a 49.9% stake in Proton from DRB-Hicom Bhd in mid-2017 to become its strategic partner.

“In Proton, I work 12 hours a day, six days per week. But I have been doing so since I started working,” says the Proton chief executive officer of 17 months in an interview with Sunday Star.

“I am a kumin ren,” he quips in Mandarin, meaning he is someone destined to lead a very hard life.

In fact, there is little choice for Dr Li but to lead the charge at Proton. Expectations on him to turn Proton into a viable and professionally run company are high.

“Li Chunrong has a mission: to revive Malaysia’s national car – not any car.

“This mission is not just his own personal commitment, but also the dream of China,” says Datuk Keith Li Zhongping, president of the China Entrepreneurs Association in Malaysia.

Now that Proton is confident of generating profits in 2019 or 2020, many are excited.

“Inviting Geely to take a strategic stake in Proton is the best move our government has ever made.

“And appointing Li to be the Proton CEO is wise. We are witnessing the rebirth of Proton,” says Ian Yoong, investment consultant for businesses from China.

READ MORE: Proton gunning for profit in 2019

Dr Li’s credentials are near impeccable. He is academically qualified and possesses the relevant auto experience.

He graduated from Huazhong University of Science and Technology with a Bachelor of Electrical Automation, followed by a Master in Industrial Engineering and Management.

He pursued a second master’s degree in business at the world-class Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) in the United States.

After MIT, Dr Li returned to Huazhong Unveristy to earn a PhD in Management Engineering.

Dr Li started his career with Dongfeng Motor Corporation in 1987, where he was involved in Dongfeng’s joint ventures with Peugeot, Honda, Nissan, Kia and Cummins.

In 2007, he set up Dongfeng Passenger Vehicle Company. His efforts in establishing the firm’s design, branding and production systems led to the company’s success.

When Dr Li was serving as executive vice-president of Dongfeng Honda Engine Company, he was handpicked by Geely to spearhead Proton’s transformation.

At the first local press conference to announce his appointment as Proton CEO on Sept 29, 2017, Dr Li pledged: “My job is not to look at the past. I will work day and night to make sure Proton is strongly successful.”

Proton, set up in early 1980s when Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad was the Prime Minister for the first time, had undergone several rescue exercises before Geely came in.

The government had injected more than RM15bil into Proton, but this did not stop Proton from bleeding and piling with debts.

Dr Li is optimistic about Proton after months of planning, revamp, problem-solving and practising leadership by example.

But success did not come easy for the auto veteran, who knew little about Malaysia’s complex multi-racial society.

When Dr Li instituted reforms one year ago to upgrade Proton sales centres, his new management faced sharp criticism of harbouring discrimination against bumiputras.

But this bitter experience has become history after upgraded service centres began to enjoy more businesses and higher profitability.

The newly launched SUV Proton X70, which has received 20,000 orders, is set to boost revenue for Proton this year.

As a result of optimism, analysts expect financial improvement in Proton’s parent company DRB-Hicom Bhd. Public Investment Bank recently maintained an “outperform” call on DRB-Hicom with a target price of RM2.10.

Inundated with good news, it is no wonder Dr Li wears a wide smile throughout his lively interview with Sunday Star.

He says: “I am happy now. Things are on track. Starting from 60,000 units, my next target for Proton is 100,000 units, followed by 150,000 and 200,000.

“I now have the support of everybody. Malaysia is wonderful, the climate and air is good and the food is wonderful.”


China's Great Wall confirms interest in Fiat Chrysler

                SHANGHAI/BEIJING: China's Great Wall Motor Co Ltd is interested in bidding for Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA), a company official said today, confirming reports it is pursuing all or part of the owner of the Jeep and Ram truck brands.

There has been speculation over Chinese interest in FCA since Automotive News reported last week that an unidentified "well-known Chinese automaker" made an offer earlier this month, triggering a jump in FCA's Milan-listed shares.

"With respect to this case, we currently have an intention to acquire. We are interested in (FCA)," an official at Great Wall Motor's press relations department told Reuters by phone. He declined to give his name and gave no further details.

FCA chief executive Sergio Marchionne is seeking a partner or buyer for the world's seventh-largest automaker to help it manage rising costs, comply with emissions regulations and develop technology for electric and self-driving cars.

In a statement, Fiat Chrysler said it had not been approached by Great Wall Motor, and was busy with implementing its current five-year business plan.

A move for FCA by Great Wall Motor, China’s largest sport utility vehicle (SUV) and pick-up manufacturer, would be audacious, however.

At a time when Beijing's attitude to outbound deals has cooled, if Great Wall bought FCA, which has a market value of almost US$20 billion, it would be by far China's largest overseas automotive industry deal - and possibly one of its largest ever overseas purchases - dwarfing Geely's 2010 billion acquisition of Volvo cars.

FCA is also larger than Great Wall, which has a market value of closer to US$16 billion.

Earlier on Monday, two people familiar with the matter said Great Wall Motor had asked for a meeting with FCA, with the aim of making an offer for all or part of the group. Also today, citing an email from Great Wall Motor president Wang Fengying, Automotive News reported Great Wall had contacted FCA to express interest specifically in the Jeep brand.

The industry publication cited a Great Wall spokesman confirming interest, but saying the Chinese automaker had not made a formal offer or met with FCA's board.

"Our strategic goal is to become the world's largest SUV maker," Automotive News quoted the spokesman as saying. "Acquiring Jeep, a global SUV brand, would enable us to achieve our goal sooner and better (than on our own)."

"Jeep is the most logical choice since (Great Wall) wants to be the largest SUV maker in the world," said Yale Zhang, head of Shanghai-based consultancy Automotive Foresight.

Ram could be an option, but "the Jeep brand is recognised globally. I think Great Wall Motor is eyeing a global strategy, not just the United States," Zhang added.

Marchionne told analysts last month that a new five-year strategy - to be unveiled next year - could include asset sales.

While he acknowledged that Jeep, Ram, Maserati and Alfa Romeo could exist on their own, he appeared to pour cold water on the idea that any of them would be sold - at least not without leaving behind a less profitable "stump" that may struggle on its own.

Jeep SUVs and Ram trucks, the two most coveted of Fiat Chrysler's brands, have become a major profit engine and a driver for Fiat's North American operations.

Jeep, which traces its roots to the iconic World War Two military vehicle, targets sales of 2 million vehicles in 2018, up from 1.4 million in 2016. Marchionne has said deliveries from the SUV brand could eventually rise to as many as 7 million a year as demand for sporty vehicles is set to keep rising.

A move for FCA or one of its main brands would be challenging to finance, and would have to overcome serious regulatory hurdles - but it would boost Great Wall's position in the US market and globally.

It would also allow it to get around the politically charged issue of manufacturing in the United States to sell there, something that would otherwise take decades to build up.

Great Wall's founder and chairman Wei Jianjun saw opportunity when China began to fall in love with SUVs, and invested heavily in its Haval brand, cutting back on sedans. Within a few years, it was a top seller, with its H6 model topping sales charts going back to 2014.

The people familiar with the matter said Great Wall had been making plans for the United States for some time, mainly by upgrading some key products and improving branding.

It earlier this year officially launched a new "Wei" brand, named after the chairman, of potentially US-market ready vehicles.


Infiniti Q60 production begins in Japan

TOKYO: The new Infiniti Q60 sports coupe has begun production in Tochigi, about 100km north of here.

The Tochigi plant has been producing Infiniti vehicles since the brand was launched in 1989. To meet the requirements of the new model, a series of upgrades have been made to the production line.

The stamping and assembly lines feature key improvements, notably through the adoption of a deep-body stamping technology and new tooling machinery for the model’s unique resin trunk lid. To further enhance quality control, a new lighting system for the inspection process and a camera and video system on the assembly line have been introduced.

In a world’s first application, the trunk lid is a hybrid combination of a resin skin on a steel frame, giving designers more freedom to develop shapes that can then be built in a single part.

One major enhancement to the Tochigi facility is a new dedicated paint booth, which has been installed solely to allow production of Q60’s new “Dynamic Sandstone Red” paint finish. The glossy, deep red finish requires a new painting set-up, using a combination of machinery and manual processes.

The new paint booth enables workers in the Tochigi paint shop to more finely control paint thickness and quality, and the newly-developed “Dynamic Sandstone Red” paint process is the result of testing several hundred variations of paint formulations and application methods.

Tochigi’s 216 Takumi (master craftsmen) were picked from the plant’s 4,500-strong workforce to work on the Infiniti production line. Takumi work across every section of the Q60’s production line, including stamping, body shop, paint, assembly and quality assurance. Six Meister Takumi selected from the pool of Takumi oversee every aspect of production to ensure quality standards are achieved.


Three cheers for the MINI Cooper S

The MINI has evolved rather dramatically from its original platform although efforts are made to retain as much of the old character and charm as possible.

In that respect, the three-door MINI would be the closest to the original in form and function.

Having owned a Mini 1000 in the mid-60s, we could relate to what the MINI was all about.

Back then, the MINI was a two-door subcompact for those who like some nippy driving and it had a small boot that could take in three medium travel bags at a squeeze for a long weekend holiday.

The modern three-door MINI has the capacity for more than double that luggage space, not considering its foldable 60:40 split rear backrests to extend space further.

The modern Cooper S draws the same awe as in the old days: in 1961 the Cooper range was developed by John Cooper of Cooper Car Company, a friend of Sir Alex Issigonis (the father of the MINI) for motor sports.

That was until 1971 before the concept was licenced to another car company for public sale production cars but the Cooper name was dropped.

The Cooper name was revived in 1990 by the Rover Group and a 1,275cc fuel-injection model was introduced in 1992.

Today, MINI is under the BMW umbrella and is developed to accommodate power sources within the group.

In the case of the Cooper S, it has a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine with the MINI TwinPower Turbo technology, direct fuel injection, and variable camshaft control on the intake and exhaust side (double Vanos): Sounds familiar?

Due to the compact dimensions of the MINI, the engine is tuned to deliver less output than a similar displacement unit in a larger and heavier BMW, while still providing better power-to-weight ratio for a heady pace.

As it were, the Cooper S punches out 192bhp and 280Nm of torque: this translates to a 0-100kph sprint in 6.7 seconds and a top speed of 233kph, sufficient to keep adrenalin on song.

The closest to a Cooper S that we have driven in the old days were souped-up MINIs: there were many specialists back then who could beef up a standard car with lots of power with the ready availability of parts and power accessories.

We could almost relive the same exhilaration of driving the modern-day version: back then, there was no air-conditioning and the excitement of the drive was very much a physical and audible experience with the throaty exhaust as we revved the engine and the heady air rush as we surged along.

It is a more ‘civilised’ feeling today although the thrill of the drive can still be enjoyed and the modern Cooper S remains compact enough to weave confidently among the ‘snails’ with the turbo boost kicking in early to give us that quick pick-up and go acceleration.

And, there is the choice of how you want to drive the car: apart from using the gearshift, an easier way was to use a rotary switch at the base of the gear console.

You can go from Sport mode to MID to Green: by selecting the respective mode, the gear shift characteristics, power delivery and suspension damper settings are changed accordingly.

In Sport mode, the ride is a lot stiffer and you can let the transmission do the gear selection or you could manually select via the steering wheel paddles.

When that mode is selected, a lower gear is selected and engine revs go up about 1,500rpm, moving to a high torque curve for that immediate kick in picking up speed or giving the wheels the needed traction through a sweeping corner at good speeds.

Another similar experience is the go-kart feeling through corners, the trait that the modern MINI was engineered to emulate and we could vouch for that in the new Cooper S, especially having driven it on familiar roads.

We certainly pushed the car at higher speeds on our favourite winding stretches as the strong torque kept us well glued to the road, along with the sturdy suspension system.

It has MacPherson struts in front and a multi-link rear axle, assisted and managed by a host of electronic systems including DTC (Dynamic Traction Control) and DSC (Dynamic Stability Control), to name two.

It steered in the direction that we aimed at and the Dunlop SportMax tyres complemented the suspension package by gripping well: Although the brochure listed the standard alloy wheels at 16-inch, the ones fitted on the Cooper S loaned to us were 17-inch alloys with 205/45 R17 tyres.

In Green or MID mode, the ride remained firm, which was not unexpected but the softer rebound helped to ease the road impacts and iron out the jolts for a reasonably comfortable ride.

After being in the Cooper S five-door with the longer wheelbase, we could see and feel the difference in legroom at the rear: the three-door sits on a 72mm shorter wheelbase of 2,495mm and has a body that is 161mm shorter at 3,821mm.

It was a good reminder of our MINI 1000 although in those days we still managed a long weekend holiday in Singapore with four adults on board, having started out from central Johor.

Today, entry to the rear is just as easy as before: previously, you pushed the entire front seat forward to get in.

With the new MINI, a lever on the side of the front seats is used to fully fold the seats away for the same function.

A notable difference to the five-door model is that the three-door version has frameless windows for the two front doors while the former has doors with framed windows (by design, a door is one through which a person can get into a car).

Like the five-door model, the Cooper S three-door variant has the central console being extended to the rear seat with a single cupholder and the bucket-type design clearly limits accommodation to two passengers.

With the tighter legroom due to the shorter body, adult passengers at the rear may find it uncomfortable for long drives and it would be best for kids.

The main thing is that the Cooper S is undeniably a young person’s car, or for the young-at-heart like me although other transport considerations take greater precedence in my case when considering such a car.

It has the compact MINI look while yielding more interior space than before and is aggressively styled in the modern tempo to live the part of an exciting-to-drive car.

The experience won’t come cheap though: the imported MINI Cooper S is retailed at RM228,888 (without insurance and MINI Service Inclusive Package) while the Wired version is an additional RM20,000.


Cleaner fuels to be available nationwide

                CYBERJAYA: The Government will expand the availability of cleaner fuels mainly in major cities at selected petrol stations across the country.

Such fuels would meet the Euro 4 petrol and Euro 5 diesel fuel standard.

“BHP and Petronas have started in Johor... we will work with them to roll out this programme to Selangor, Penang, Kuantan, etc. To have a complete supply of clean diesel in the north, south, east and west would make sense,” said  Malaysian Automotive Institute (MAI) chief executive officer M. Madani Sahari.

Madani further said that prices charged to the consumer should be reduced, given that car manufacturers would pay a lower tax of 6% to the Government instead of 10% at present after the introduction of the goods and services tax (GST).

“Whether this reduction materialises depends on whether the OEM and the retail manufacturers decide to reduce car prices. In our opinion, the lower effective tax paid should benefit the consumer, and therefore, we think they should reduce car prices,” he said.

Indirectly, Madani said the GST would be good for the automotive industry, as consumers would only pay 6% GST as opposed to a 10% sales tax rate before, while automotive supply chain players would get a higher cash balance from the lower effective tax rate. -- DANIEL KHOO


All-electric eBussy offers up options for the adventurous

                BERLIN: Meet the Electric Brands eBussy that boasts of a modular design that will be able to provide a host of configurations from being a people carrier to cargo-hauling duties.

The concept platform offered by Electric Brands provides configurations from being a two or four doors that seems to highly resemble the Volkswagen Bus.

The company is said to have the intention to offer an Offroad variant the will come with a high-clearance suspension system and all-terrain tires while sporting an optional shell for the rear end (depending on one's preferences of course).

Power will be provided to all four wheels with all-wheel steering for owners to venture off the beaten path and it's also said to be provided with integrated solar modules and regenerative braking for all versions of the eBussy.

Power could be provided by a choice of battery packs ranging from 10kWh to 30kWh for something that weighs around 460kg while and measuring about 3,600mm-long while range could be anywhere from 200km to 600km - depending on configuration and load.

Although there's mention that the eBussy could have about 20hp - perhaps per wheel that's accompanied by a potent dose of 1,000Nm of torque.

The company is currently entertaining bookings for the eBussy with prices starting from US$15,800 euros (RM90,000).

According to the company's website, there are already 4,080 reservations with preferences pointing to the camper van configuration and deliveries have been earmarked for some time in 2021.


Rolls-Royce holds charity bash for allergy research

                LONDON: A recent philanthropic event raised over £1.7 million (RM8.83 million) at the Home of Rolls-Royce in Goodwood, West Sussex.

Rolls-Royce’s "Evelina Art for Allergy x Dine on the Line" was held in support of allergy research by Evelina London Children’s Hospital.

The star of the show was a special Phantom, a collaboration between Rolls-Royce Motor Cars and world-renowned artist Marc Quinn. The winning bidder of this headline lot is a valued collector of the marque. Mark Quinn will now create a bespoke artwork featuring the iris of the winning bidder’s daughter, using Rolls-Royce Phantom as his canvas.

The highly personalised and creative work of art raised an auspicious £888,000 (RM4.6 million), with the generous patron excitedly bidding well over £1 million (RM5.2 million) in total during the course of the evening.

The artwork takes inspiration from Quinn’s on-going series of iris paintings, named We Share Our Chemistry with the Stars.

Torsten Müller-Ötvös, Chief Executive, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars, commented, “Rolls-Royce is deeply privileged to have worked with Evelina London on this exceptional event."

Commenting on the difference the donations will make, Professor Gideon Lack, Evelina London said, “The generous donations from the Art for Allergy event will make a dramatic difference to our research programme and to our mission to prevent allergies, to protect against allergies, and to ultimately cure allergies in children.

“I would like to express my sincere gratitude to the team at Rolls-Royce Motor Cars and event co-chairs Kate Storey and Marc Quinn for providing us with a fantastic platform to highlight the importance of our research and raise these significant funds. I would also like extend my heartfelt thanks to all of the guests, contributing artists and auction prize donors, without whom this achievement would not have been possible.”

The auction, led by globally acknowledged art auctioneer Simon de Pury, saw art world cognoscenti and Rolls-Royce collectors bid at an unprecedented pace. The auctioneer extraordinaire likened the artwork to John Lennon’s Phantom V, describing it as “the 21st century equivalent” of the legendary psychedelic motor car. The audience agreed as the staggering amount continued to rise generating rapturous applause.

Other phenomenal auction lots attracted substantial bids. Works by some of the world’s most sought-after artists included works by British artists Jake & Dinos Chapman, David Yarrow, Harland Miller and Mary McCartney. Proceeds generated from the auction will be donated to Evelina London to fund vital allergy research.

The evening of art, automotive and culinary experiences began with a cocktail reception, where British artist Jonathan Huxley created a new artwork, live at the event. In addition, LA-based media artist Refik Anadol, commissioned for the Rolls-Royce Art Programme,

treated guests to an exclusive preview of his new work entitled Art of Perfection: Data Painting. Anadol’s unique work of digital art used data sets relating to the colour of every Rolls-Royce motor car created at the Home of Rolls-Royce over the last ten years.

The evening included an exquisite and immersive dining experience, where guests enjoyed a menu carefully curated by world-renowned chef, Giorgio Locatelli.

Following the auction, singer-songwriter John Newman entertained guests, before DJ Fat Tony closed out an extraordinary evening of philanthropy.


300,000th Mercedes G-Class rolls off Graz plant

                STUTTGART/GRAZ: The 300,000th vehicle of the legendary G-Class has rolled off the production line at Magna Steyr in Graz, 200km south of the Austrian capital, Vienna.

The record vehicle is a Mercedes-Benz G500 in the colour designo mauritius blue metallic with black leather seats and contrasting white stitching (fuel consumption combined: 12.3 l/100 km; combined CO2 emissions: 289 g/km).

The off-road qualities of the G-Class are enhanced by the Off-Road package including black 16-inch wheels with all-terrain tyres and a robust roof rack. This combination was selected by fans of the G-Class from all over the world, who voted for their favourite specification via the official Facebook page of the G-Class. During the next few months the anniversary vehicle will be on display on social media networks. The future adventures of the 300,000th G-Class can be followed via #Gventure300K.

“The G-Class has been produced by Magna Steyr in Graz, Austria, on behalf of Mercedes-Benz since 1979. Today our off-road icon is more successful than ever. The production of 300,000 G-Class models is an impressive milestone. said Dr Gunnar Güthenke, head of the off-road product group at Mercedes-Benz.

Sales of the G-Class have grown continually since 2009. Thanks to the strong growth rates, the forefather of the SUV, the G-Class, achieved a new sales record in 2016 with almost 20,000 units being sold within a year. The G-Class has achieved a new sales record every year since 2012.


10 cars coming in 2023

                PETALING JAYA: One year is ending; another beckons. As usual, we look forward to what 2023 has to offer in terms of car models that will show up. Electric cars - and public chargers -  have started to gain more visibility in Malaysia, and we can expect the momentum to gather pace in the following year.

Of course, internal combustion engined cars are still coming on strong and they are not going to fade away anytime soon. More and more of them will be offered to the public in the ensuing years as they play alongside their electric counterparts.

There will be more than 10 car models coming next year but we cherry-picked 10 Malaysians can expect to see launched and on local roads throughout 2023.

1. BMW XM

With online pre-booking already starting from October, the first-ever BMW XM is ready to show up in 2023.

The sportiest SUV from BMW is estimated to be priced at around RM1.4mil. The 4.4-litre turbocharged V8 engine makes 360kW or 489hp and a maximum torque of 650Nm. It is paired with a 194hp/279Nm electric motor for a system output of 653hp and 800Nm.

As standard, the XM features adaptive LED headlights, BMW Curved Display, 23-inch wheels and M Aerodynamics Package and M High-Gloss Shadow Line.

 The X90 will look like the Okavango albeit with some localisation differences.2. Proton X90

The X90 will be the 7-seater SUV Proton is missing. Not for long. The X90 is set to arrive in 2023 to plug the gap in its SUV range. Already reports and photos of the X90 prototype in camouflage have been spotted undergoing trails on Malaysian roads.

More space, more comfort and better connectivity are selling points for the upcoming SUV as Proton seeks to move up the ladder.

China's Geely Haoyue is the base for the X90, and it's expected to have a locally assembled turbocharged 1.5-litre 3-cylinder petrol engine as seen in the X50 and the latest X70 but retuned to cater to a bigger vehicle.

It's plausible that Proton could offer a more premium variant that is propelled by a 1.5-litre three-cylinder 48V hybrid system making 187hp/300Nm, like the Geely Okavango (overseas name for Haoyue) sold in the Philippines.

3.  smart #1 EV

The new smart is no longer the small city runabout we used to know but has transformed into a 5-seat SUV under a Geely-Mercedes-Benz joint venture.

Built on a Chinese electric platform, the #1 drives with a rear-mounted electric motor of 272hp and its 66 kWh battery musters a 440km range (WLTP). It can be charged with 22 kW at the wallbox and up to 150 kW with a DC charger. The car can be juiced up to 80% charge in under 30 minutes. Top speed is 180kph.

It comes with a frunk and features an all-new fully networked infotainment system and a digital car key. Newly formed Proton New Energy Technology Sdn Bhd (PRO-NET) will handle the distribution of the #1 in Malaysia and Thailand once it launches in early Q4 2023.

4. Volvo EX90

Volvo bills the EX90 as a highly advanced computer on wheels, as it is designed to get better over time, thanks to regular over-the-air software updates.

It’s a versatile, stylish family car with modern proportions, combined with cutting-edge technology in core computing, connectivity and electrification to optimise safety, efficiency and aesthetics.

The seven-seater is the safest ever Volvo and is also first from the brand that’s hardware-ready for unsupervised driving in the future.

Range is 600km (WLTP) and it charges from 10 to 80% in around 30 minutes.

The initially available twin-motor all-wheel drive version is powered by a 111kWh battery and two permanent magnet electric motors, together delivering in its performance version 380 kW/517 hp and 910 Nm of torque.

5. Volkswagen ID.4

Two right-hand drive units of the VW ID.4 were showcased at Volkswagen Fest 2022 in October, heralding the electric car model would be arriving next year.

The ID.4 on show at the time was the Pro Performance variant, suggesting this is the example that will go on sale in Malaysia. This particular ID.4 packs a 77 kWh lithium-ion battery that's good for around 520km. A 201hp electric motor drives the rear wheels and the car can sprint from 0-100kph in 8.5s, and onwards to a top speed of 160kph.

The ID.4 supports 11-kW AC charging and up to 125-kW DC fast charging that reportedly allows the car to recover 320km in 30 mins. It will still be a car for the rich, as it is expected to be priced at the Hyundai Ioniq 5/Kia EV6 levels. And you know how much these Korean cars cost.

6. Chery Omoda 5

The Omoda 5 is Chery's new generation sports utility vehicle (SUV) that was developed as a global model to meet international demand and gain entry into the European Union (EU) and right-hand drive markets.

Powered by a 1.6-litre turbo direct injection engine paired to a seven-speed dual clutch transmission or a 1.5-litre turbo engine with a continuously variable transmission, the Omoda 5 is expected to add excitement to the popular B-Segment SUV now dominated by Japanese models.

Aimed at the young generation buyers with its technology-rich features and trendy design, the Omoda 5 comes with a distinctive oversized one-piece star drill grille, coupe-like rear and an Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) with 16 functions, including adaptive cruise control, to further maximise occupant safety and comfort.

Also featured are 20.5-inch dual screen dashboard design, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, voice control, 360 around view camera and 18-inch alloy wheels.

The vehicle was recently awarded a full five-star safety rating by the European New Car Assessment Programme (Euro NCAP).

7. Ora Grand Cat EV

The GWM Ora Grand Cat four-door electric coupe will be an ideal follow-up to the Chinese brand's Good Cat hatchback which had received good launch response from the public last month.

Being a bigger, better equipped and appointed compared with the Good Cat, expect higher levels of sophistiscation and comfort.

The EV is powered by two electric motors - one at each axle - to deliver a total output of 402hp and 680Nm of torque for a sports car like 0-100kph acceleration of 4.3 seconds.

Driving range is said to be around 550km which should be more than enough as a daily car with sporty performance.

8. Toyota bZ4X EV

The all-new Toyota bZ4X will be UMW Toyota Motor's first battery electric vehicle (BEV) and joins the company's eco-friendly mobility inititative that has been spearhead by its petrol/electric hybrid line-up.

Launched in Japan early this year, the futuristic-looking bZ4X is built on dedicated e-TNGA BEV platform to deliver a smooth and premium driving performance.

The electric sports utility vehicle comes in both front-wheel and all-wheel drive options and has a single-charge driving range between 345km and 411km depending on the powertrain.

A 0-100kph sprint can be achieved in 7.5 seconds.

9. Audi Q8 e-tron EV

As the apex sports utility vehicle model in Audi's line-up, the Q8 e-tron is offered with two dual-motor powertrain choices of 250kW/664Nm with range of up to 491km and 300kW/664Nm with range up to 582km, and a third three-motor option that unleashes 370kW/973Nm of torque with range up to 494km.

The all-electric vehicle featuring enhanced aerodynamics, uses the characteristic Singleframe mask and inverted grille while ushering in the new corporate identity with a two-dimensional design of the four rings.

The luxury model comes standard with an air-spring suspension with variable vehicle height adjustment up to 76mm for controlled shock absorption.

In addition to the standard Audi virtual cockpit with full HD resolution and voice control, the Q8 e-tron also gets two large high-resolution displays – the top one with a 10.1-inch diagonal and the bottom one with an 8.6-inch diagonal – that replace nearly all conventional switches and knobs.

It also gets some 40 driver assistance systems supported by up to five radar sensors, five cameras and 12 ultrasonic sensors to provide environmental information.

10. Chery Tiggo 8 Pro

Chery's flagship Tiggo 8 Pro seven-seater sports utility vehicle (SUV) comes well-specified to take the fight to similar offerings from traditional brands from Japanese and Korean manufacturers.

Aside from 1.6-litre turbo direct-injected efficient engine with 197PS and 290Nm of torque, mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch type with three drive modes and two steering modes.

Its impressive array of equipment includes a horizontal 12.3-inch instrument panel, an 8-inch climate control screen and a 10.25-inchfloating infotainment screen with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and fully automatic dual-zone air conditioner with N95-grade air purifying system.

Other items are six airbags, Traction Control (TCS), Roll Stability Control (RSC), ISOFIX anchorage points, revers camera, Lane Departure Warning, Automatic Cruise Control, Automatic Emergency Braking, Traffic Sign Recognition, Intelligent High-beam Control (IHC), Blind Spot Monitoring, Front Collision Warning and Emergency Brake Override System (BOW).

In South Africa, the Tiggo 8 Pro is offered with a staggering 10-year/1,000,000km warranty.


New Land Rover Defender struts out in Goodwood still under wraps

                LONDON: Jaguar Land Rover sought to crank up the drama surrounding the first public outing of its revamped Defender sport utility vehicle, keeping the car in disguise on a hill climb at the Goodwood Festival of Speed.

The successor to the iconic model, produced almost unchanged through seven decades, will go on sale next year with an official unveil planned in the coming months. On Thursday it remained in heavy camouflage to hide its design and help maximise the impact of a vehicle that will be more closely pored over than any other in JLR’s range.

While the company has moved upmarket with its most luxurious Range Rovers selling for more than £150,000 (RM778,000), the go-anywhere ability of a model traditionally favoured by farmers and explorers is still a key attraction for customers who will never leave the highway.

READ MORE: Lego reveals the latest Land Rover Defender?

The vehicle will establish itself as the world’s most capable off-road performer while offering “engaging on-road dynamics,” Land Rover chief engineer Mike Cross said at the event near England’s south coast, suggesting it may offer a smoother ride than the sometimes bone-shaking original.

No price has yet been revealed for the 2020 launch but the car will likely retail from around £40,000 (RM208,000), according to reports, significantly more than the old model. It will come in three versions, seating between five and eight people, Autocar reported this month, citing documents published by the Disco4.com forum.

JLR has said that all of its models will have some form of electric option from next year, without revealing whether the Defender will come as a hybrid or feature an all-electric variant.

The Defender will make two uphill runs a day at the Goodwood event, which ends Sunday. A second car, displayed clambering over boulders at the JLR podium, had its lights, grill and other external features masked. The body has been padded out to disguise its true contours, according to a company official.

JLR has clocked up 1.5 million in test kilometres for the Defender and recently completed what it called a “real-world” trial in Kenya that saw the SUV wade rivers, climb steeply sloping hillsides and pull heavily loaded trailers while tracking lions in the Borana game reserve.

First glimpses confirmed the new car features the same boxy silhouette as the original British legend that ceased production in 2016. The vehicle counted Winston Churchill and Queen Elizabeth II among its fans, and shuttled soldiers in the Korean War and Red Cross volunteers to crisis zones.

That model stayed remarkably unchanged until tougher carbon-dioxide emission standards and pedestrian safety concerns eventually made an overhaul unavoidable. Of the more than 2 million built, around 70% are thought to survive today.

Putting the new Defender on the road is a bright spot for JLR as it struggles with fallout from the Britain's decision to leave the European Union and slumping sales in China. The country’s biggest car manufacturer — now owned by India’s Tata Motors Ltd. — said in January it would cut 10% of its workers globally.

The new car was developed in Gaydon, England, and will be produced at Land Rover’s new, lower-cost plant in Slovakia.


Cars to watch out for in second half of 2015

                PETALING JAYA: You could be the person to bump up car sales as we rush headlong into the second half of 2015. And the Malaysian Automotive Association (MAA) will thank you for it.

Every car out of the showroom counts as passenger car sales in Malaysia are expected to see little growth this year, following record sales in the last few years.

The MAA has forecast total industry volume to record its lowest growth in five years in 2015 – a measly 0.5% to 670,000 units from the 666,465 units achieved last year.

Vehicle sales in the first half of 2015 fell 3.3% year-on-year to 322,184, mainly due to subdued business optimism and moderation in consumer spending as a result of the economic uncertainties and increased cost of living.

Tough lending practices, especially for hire-purchase loans, also affected sales. Still, the show must go on, as they say.

Manufacturers were busy launching new models in the first half of the year - among them the updated Perodua Myvi, Mazda2,Honda HR-V, Peugeot 308, Nissan X-Trail, Ford Mondeo, Subaru Outback,Toyota Camry Hybrid, MINI John Cooper Works,Audi TT, Isuzu MU-X, Mitsubishi Triton, Hyundai Genesis,Kia Rio 5-door, Renault Fluence and the petrol-powered Citroen Grand C4 Picasso variant.

Also launched were Mercedes-Benz’s locally assembled C-Class variants and BMW 2 Series tourers along with the BMW i8 plug-in hybrid sports car.

Super exotics were also not left out in the first half of the year with the Ferrari 488 GTB and Mercedes-AMG GT S making their sales debut.

The MAA remains optimistic that vehicle sales in the second half of the year will be better.

As the car-buying public waits with bated breath, CarSifu lists the range of cars to watch out for from now till the end of the year.

Click the links below for details on each car.

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The premium compact sedan Peugeot 408, which was revealed in last year’s Beijing Auto Show, uses the EMP2 platform making it a light car that promises better fuel efficiency. > MORE

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Featuring a sleeker style compared to its predecessor, the new Kia Cerato Koup is also more powerful. > MORE

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The Jaguar XE redefines the concept of the sports saloon and is the driver’s car in its class. > MORE

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The new Land Rover Discovery Sport touts a versatile and capable premium compact SUV featuring a 5+2 seating on a footprint no larger than existing 5-seat premium SUVs. > MORE

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The latest 2015 facelift for the BMW 3 Series results in a sharper-looking exterior, more driving technology and cutting-edge engines. > MORE

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Going by its popularity worldwide, the Mazda CX-3 mini sport utility vehicle (SUV) looks set to be a winner in Malaysia. > MORE

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Mazda took the focused approach when it developed its fourth generation low-slung, fun-to-drive, two-seater roadster that’s known as the MX-5. > MORE

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The 2015 Ford Everest seven-seater SUV (sport utility vehicle) is a versatile family set of wheels, with stunning off-road technology and refined interior comfort. > MORE

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The Renault Captur crossover combines the characters of three types of vehicles. > MORE

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The Renault Clio GT is a punchy 1.2-litre turbo petrol go-getter that’s willing to stand toe-to-toe with anything that makes it look diminutive on the streets and should arrive by late 2015.  > MORE

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The Nissan NP300 Navara is the most powerful 2.5-litre diesel pick-up workhorse while promising fuel economy and improved off-road capability. > MORE

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The Ford Ranger gets new updates for 2015 with a bolder, sportier look as well as improved comfort and upgraded diesel power trains. > MORE

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Hailed as the most powerful V8 car of its segment, the Mercedes-AMG C 63 gets a powerful 4.0-litre V8 biturbo engine. > MORE

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Lexus has updated the ES mid-sized sedan for 2015, which comes in three variants. > MORE

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BMW and Daimler to jointly work on automated driving

                BERLIN: Some 1,200 developers at BMW and Daimler will team up to develop automated driving technology, the companies said today, the latest carmakers forced to pool their development resources at a time of shrinking margins.

The strategic partnership will focus on developing technologies for assisted driving systems, automated driving on highways and automated parking, BMW and Daimler said in a statement, adding that the two companies will implement the technologies in their cars independently.

The two carmakers first announced their plans to join forces on automated driving technology in February, saying they were discussing the possibility of extending their partnership.

BMW and Daimler today said they had finalised the agreement and that they expected the technology to be deployed in mass-market vehicles from 2024.

Earlier this year, BMW and Daimler, Germany’s two biggest carmakers after Volkswagen, both issued profit warnings earlier this year.

Facing headwinds from international trade conflicts and narrowing margins due to tougher emissions legislation, carmakers are being driven to team up by the massive development costs of key technologies in which they face competition from internet giants like Alphabet’s Waymo.

Europe’s biggest carmaker Volkswagen and Ford are in the final stage of talks on a strategic alliance to jointly develop self-driving and electric cars. Newspaper Handelsblatt said the deal was set to be approved on July 11.

In May, Renault and Italian-American group Fiat Chrysler Automobiles announced they were in merger talks, but discussions were later called off.

Daimler issued a profit warning in June - its third in 12 months - saying it was setting aside hundreds of millions of euros to cover a regulatory crackdown on diesel emissions.

In May, BMW warned on profits, saying it had had to make larger investments than expected.

The two companies said their cooperation was non-exclusive, with results being made available to other licensed original equipment manufacturers.

WATCH: Twitter video


WATCH: Sibling rivalry colours chase scene in Lamborghini Urus

                BOLOGNA: Lamborghini has released a video clip of the Urus in a two-minute chase scene that also sought to highlight the supercar maker's Pearl Capsule package.

In the video, a man and a woman are each driving an Urus and trying to outdo each other.

One of the two Urus SUVs - in Verde Mantis green, happens to be equipped with the brand's recently launched Pearl Capsule package.

The Pearl Capsule package gives the Urus a Gloss Black trim which includes the spoiler, rear diffuser and roof.

It also throws in a set of 23-inch black wheels accented with matching body colour. The "blacked-out" leather-clad cabin and seats are also accented in matching body colour, while carbon-fibre and black anodised aluminium now decorate the interior.

The package adds four layers of high-gloss, pearl-effect paint on to the Urus' standard colours of Giallo Inti (yellow), Arancio Borealis (orange), and Verde Mantis (green).

In the video, the race quickly progressed to some dirt roads to showcase the Urus' ability to rough terrain - if needed - with plenty of performance on tap.

Although it may seem that the clip might be about two lovebirds sharing a common interest in driving a super sport SUV fast , the appearance of a grey Urus towards the end clarifies the situation.

In fact, it's their mother who emerges as the driver of the grey Urus to give the clip a heartfelt ending that conveys the message about the importance of family and togetherness. And let's not forget the Pearl Capsule package adds lots of eye candy along the way..

Lamborghini Urus in Verde Mantis

Lamborghini Urus in Arancio Borealis


Proton announces 12.6% hike in sales

                SUBANG JAYA: Proton has announced that following a month of market correction in September, due to the introduction of the Sales and Service Tax (SST), sales for PROTON cars grew by 12.6% in October.

In fact, a total of 5,093 units were sold, marking an increase of 569 units over the previous month and a slight improvement over the corresponding period in 2017.

Market share as a percentage of the Total Industry Volume (TIV) is estimated at 10.7% which is in line with the average figure for the year.

Sales growth fuelled by promotions and quality improvements While the local carmaker's overall market share contracted in October.

Proton X70 SUV

The sales volume it achieved is the highest for 2018 outside of the bumper sales period from June – September, which was fuelled by a zero percent GST tax environment.

With the much-hyped Proton X70 launch only occurring later in the year, the growth points towards customers showing renewed interests in the current range of Proton cars. At current buyers can enjoy zero percent SST pricing for all models.

“PROTON is the only car manufacturer in Malaysia to adopt a zero SST pricing policy for all its current models. We aim to deliver better value for money to our customers by making ownership of a Proton car more affordable.

"Therefore, over the final two months of 2018 we are offering rebates of up to RM3,000 and will increase our participation in road shows and carnivals to ensure we reach as many Malaysian car buyers as possible,” said PROTON Edar chief executive officer Abdul Rashid Musa.


Isuzu mu-X special edition Type S arrives at RM182k

                KUALA LUMPUR: A special edition Isuzu mu-X Type S sport utility vehicle (SUV) that uses the D-Max pickup truck's platform has been unveiled and is priced on-the-road with GST and insurance at RM181,841.

The seven-seater mu-X (launched in mid-2015) gets backed by a new five-year unlimited mileage warranty, which includes existing mu-X owners, and is currently available in four colour options of Splash White, Titanium Silver, Cosmic Black and Uluru Brown.

A 65-litre fuel tank feeds the 4JK1-TCX 2.5-litre (2,499cc) Variable Geometry (turbo) System (VGS) diesel engine that's mated to a five-speed automatic transmission with sequential shift to manage the 136PS at 3,400rpm and 320Nm of torque from 1,800 to 2,800rpm send to all four 17-inch wheels with 255/65 series tyres.

There are no changes to the brake system using discs all-round and the suspension system still uses telescopic hydraulic double action shock absorbers at all four corners paired with the front independent double wishbones with coil springs and stabilizer and the rear's five-link suspension with coil springs and stabilizer.

Externally, the special edition mu-X features projector ellipsoid headlamps, front fogs with LED daytime running lights, roof rails, side-steps, rear spoiler and a muffler cutter.

Splashes of chrome are found on the engine hood garnish, front grille, electrically adjustable and foldable external mirrors with LED turn signals, door handles, rear bumper and tailgate garnishes.

To ease entry is a new keyless entry system - Passive Entry System (PESS), that's paired with a push-start button, while the cabin's new features include an eight-inch touchscreen DVD player, e-Lumax (electroluminescent) meter panel with Multi-information Display (MID) and ivory-colour for the leather seats and armrest.

Finished in piano black are the dashboard, door panels and air-conditioning vents for more character

For safety, hill-start assist now joins the usual provisions of two airbags, anti-lock braking system, traction control, electronic stability control, electronic brakeforce distribution and brake assist.

READ MORE:
CarSifu drives Isuzu MU-X for first time


BMW  i4 M50 enters at RM445,800

                PETALING JAYA: BMW Malaysia today unveiled the i4 M50 at the Malaysia Autoshow 2023.

It is priced at RM445,800 (on-the-road without insurance).

First previewed in conjunction with the 50th anniversary of BMW’s motorsports division last year, the first all-electric BMW M debut is set to raise the benchmark for pure electric driving performance in Malaysia.

The i4 M50 will arrive with the BMW M 50 Years Emblems as standard.

The sporty character of the car is showcased through standard equipment features including the M Aerodynamics package, M rear spoiler in body colour and black rear diffuser insert.

Inside, the cabin has M interior trim with Carbon Fibre trim finishers, M Anthracite Headliner, and features M Sport seats at the front, M seat belts, instrument panel in Sensatec, and electrical glass roof.

The BMW IconicSounds Electric emulates the emotive experience by recreating the sporty “M” engine sound.

Front and rear axles have a BMW M eDrive motor for all-wheel drive configuration. The motors make 400 kW/544 hp and maximum torque of 795 Nm in Sport Boost mode. Century sprint is achieved in just 3.9 seconds, while top speed is capped at 225kph.

With an energy consumption of 24 – 19 kWh/100 km, the electric range is 510 km (based on the WLTP cycle). Compatible with both AC and DC charging modes, the i4 M50 can be fully charged in just 8 hours and 15 minutes with an 11-kW AC charger, or be charged from 10 per cent to 80% in just 31 minutes with a 200-kW DC charger.

Onboard advanced safety systems include Acoustic Protection for Pedestrians, Active Protection for Pedestrians, Driving Assistant Professional, Parking Assistant Plus and Active Protection.

The car will be available in the exterior colours of Mineral White, Black Sapphire, M Brooklyn Grey, M Portimao Blue and Sanremo Green. Interior upholstering is available in Leather Vernasca in Black with Blue Contrast Stitching and Leather Vernasca in Cognac.

 BMW and MINI Fast Facts


Sime Darby invests RM120mil for a BMW 4S dealership in Balakong

                KUALA LUMPUR: Sime Darby Bhd’s automotive division, Sime Darby Motors, via its subsidiary Sime Darby Auto Bavaria (Auto Bavaria), it broke ground on its new BMW 4S dealership in Balakong, Selangor.

Part of a multi-million-ringgit investment in a brand-new premise to expand its reach and services to customers, the ceremony was officiated by Hans de Visser, Managing Director of BMW Group Malaysia; Mustamir Mohamad, Group Chief Financial Officer of Sime Darby Bhd; Jeffrey Gan, Managing Director of Retail and Distribution of Sime Darby Motors Malaysia; Vi Thim Juan, Managing Director of Auto Bavaria and Azrul Azman, Dealer Principal of Auto Bavaria Balakong.

Speaking at the ceremony, Mustamir said the group was optimistic on prospects in the automotive segment.

“The ground-breaking ceremony reflects our commitment to serve our customers for the long term in Malaysia. In line with our strategic growth plans, our investment in this state-of-the-art facility in Balakong, along with our recent acquisition of the BMW 4S dealership in Tebrau and the launch of our BMW 4S Centre in Ara Damansara, reinforces our pledge to delivering only the highest level of service to our customers,” he said.

De Visser said as the Klang Valley develops and expands, BMW Group Malaysia have identified Balakong, Serdang, Cheras and its surrounding areas as new potentials.

“It is only natural that we awarded Auto Bavaria the responsibility of representing us in the area. Auto Bavaria has been a valuable dealer partner for us here in Malaysia and they are also our premium partner in helping us achieve our ambitions in the country,” he said.

Vi said Auto Bavaria was committed to making the premium ownership experience and brand promise of the BMW Group extend beyond the point of purchase.

“In benchmarking ourselves against the best BMW dealers in the world, we will continue to invest in new premises, services and talent through human resource re-engineering and re-training programmes for our talent force,” Vi added.

Spanning more than 243,342sq ft at with an investment of more than RM120mil, the new Auto Bavaria Balakong 4S Centre is strategically located along the SILK highway, which has high visibility and accessibility, and is designed with the latest BMW Retail NEXT concept/

Aside from an extensive aftersales facility with a total of 30 productive bays; a body & paint centre; as well as BMW Premium Selection, the new 4S centre will welcome its first customer in the first quarter of 2023.

BMW customers and enthusiasts in the vicinity may visit the BMW showroom located along Jalan Tengah, Cheras Selatan 118.

The two-storey 3,600 square foot facility features a showroom that is capable of displaying up to three vehicles and a customer lounge on the ground floor, as well as an administrative office on the first floor.


Tesla drops cheapest Model X, S variants, cuts prices to simplify lineup

                BEIJING: Tesla Inc has dropped the standard-range variants of its Model X and Model S from its product lineup and adjusted prices across its range, in a sales push that comes days after the US electric vehicle maker reported record deliveries.

To simplify its offerings, the automaker on Tuesday limited variants of its Model X sport-utility vehicle and Model S sedan to “Long Range” and the more expensive “Performance”. It also trimmed the price of its now entry-level Long Range variants.

The discontinuation of the standard-range variants, however, means a rise in starting prices - to US$84,990 (RM349,000) for the Model X and US$79,990 (RM329,000) for the Model S, excluding potential buying incentives.

Tesla also lowered the starting price of its mass-market Model 3 to US$38,990 (RM161,000).

“To make purchasing our vehicles even simpler, we are standardising our global vehicle lineup and streamlining the number of trim packages offered for Model S, Model X and Model 3,” Tesla said in a statement.

“We are also adjusting our pricing in order to continue to improve affordability for customers.”

Earlier this month, Tesla said global deliveries of its three models in the second quarter of this year rose 51% from the previous quarter to a record 95,200 vehicles. The Model 3 accounted for about 80% of the total, underscoring the vehicle’s role as the linchpin of Tesla’s growth strategy.

The automaker said it expected production and deliveries to continue growing in Q3.

In China, the world’s largest market for electric vehicles, Tesla’s changes on Tuesday pushed the starting price of its Model X to 790,900 yuan (RM473,000) and Model S to 776,900 yuan (RM464,000).

Tesla is building a factory in Shanghai where it initially plans to build Model 3 cars. It is taking orders for those China-made versions, which have a starting price of 328,000 yuan (RM196,000).


Prepare to say goodbye to Mercedes G-Wagon

The official teaser image for the Mercedes-Maybach G65 4x4 Landaulet.
STUTTGART: To mark the 38th and final year of production of the current-generation G Class SUV, Mercedes is set to unveil a very special drop top edition at the Geneva Motor Show. However, while the company hoped to keep fans in suspense by issuing teaser images between now and March, images and videos of the new car are already surfacing online.

And the pictures show that the final G Class is going to be very special indeed. It is going to be called the Mercedes-Maybach G65 4x4 Landaulet and is expected to be capped at 99 examples, each of which will be overflowing with in-cabin creature comforts that everyone will be able to see, thanks to a folding fabric soft top. But only when the car's parked, of course, because it will also have supercar performance thanks to an AMG-built twin-turbocharged 6-litre V12 engine under the hood.

When the Geländewagen launched as a military off-road vehicle in 1979, no one could have foreseen that it was destined to become a luxury automotive icon. But over the past four decades, just like the original Range Rover, that is exactly what has happened to the once agricultural G-Wagon.

And while the Range Rover has been through three full redesigns since 1970, the G Class is still essentially the same as it was when it launched.

Be that as it may, it is so loved that every time Mercedes tries to retire it, fans protest so much that it stays in production.

However, this time round the once venerable vehicle really is being retired and will be replaced with something very similar in terms of look and feel, but with sufficient room in the cabin and under the floor to give it the 21st century automotive innovations that it's been lacking.

And that's also why the new model is a tour de force of everything good about the existing G-Wagon. As well as a throbbing V12 under the hood, lashings of leather and wood in the cabin and a soft top, it's also getting flared carbon-fiber wheel arches and portal axles to ensure it stands out the most among other G-Class models on the road.

This innovative way of connecting the wheels to the car and to the engine via rods and gears allows Mercedes to significantly increase the vehicle's ground clearance without slapping on the sort of rubber usually found on a monster truck.

And with the axles sitting above the wheels, rather than in line with each wheel center, Mercedes can get just as creative with the suspension system allowing each wheel even more movement and travel so that there are fewer and fewer off-road situations where this car could come unstuck.


Like it or loathe it, automotive subscription services are here to stay, says connectivity expert

                LONDON: As car manufacturers increasingly turn to the controversial concept of subscription services, vehicle connectivity expert VNC Automotive questions whether consumers are as against the idea of subscribing to vehicle features as many believe.

Consumers are no stranger to the subscription model, now firmly a part of daily life for many, with millions of people regularly paying to use services such as Netflix, Amazon Prime and Spotify, as well as subscribing to deliveries of groceries.

This familiarity may smooth the transition for manufacturers as they look to recreate that model inside their vehicles.

Rather than paying for an expensive option at the point of sale, there’s the potential for customers to switch on or deactivate options according to their needs and budget.

For instance,it’s likely that heated seats won’t be necessary in summer months but could be activated for winter driving or simply as and when required for seasonal road trips.

There’s an obvious tension between OEMs wanting to maximise their revenue, and customers wanting to use the hardware that’s already fitted to their vehicles.

But the subscription model could offer a personalised and dynamic driving experience, assuming OEMs streamline the payment structure beyond ‘dumb’ annual fees.

READ MORE: Perodua trials Ativa Hybrid subscription plan

Modern vehicles aren’t visiting the dealership as frequently as OEMs would like, thanks to longer service intervals. But regular software updates offered by OEMs could be billed as "digital valets", enhancing existing features and adding new ones. Such ‘refreshes’ ought to strengthen the relationship between OEMs and used vehicle owners.

Subscription features also make the car more configurable for subsequent owners, allowing them to specify features as they would with a new car but without the associated high purchase price of a factory-fresh vehicle.

Additionally, customers switching between vehicles could have their subscribed features move with them, with options activated according to each driver’s subscription package. These packages represent an opportunity for OEMs to ‘lock in’ customers to a personalised subscription ecosystem, encouraging brand loyalty.

Citing flexibility, customer engagement and future upgradeability, VNC Automotive product engineering director Peter Galek sees a future for subscriptions.

“Exciting new features or upgrades for a vehicle are a strong incentive for traditional vehicle users to subscribe. Such models give OEMs the best chance of marketing more features over the vehicle’s lifetime,” said Galek.

Meanwhile, new figures from YouGov show customers are more tolerant and accepting of rented vehicle access. Three in 10 (30%) of Brits and Americans agree with the statement: “I don’t want to be locked into owning a car because my needs may change.”

The same survey shows a shift towards acceptance of car subscription models such as ‘Care by Volvo which allows users to choose vehicles according to their lifestyle requirements.

Younger drivers are tending to shun the ownership model, seeing vehicles as a transient commodity – it is the experience which counts, not the ownership.

The same is true of recorded media such as CDs and DVDs – millennials tend to prefer the flexibility and freedom offered by streaming services.

“Witness the monumental shift in the entertainment industry for streaming music and movies. Short-term leases and shared car ownership schemes like Zipcar and Co-Wheels versus having a car sat in the driveway show customers are open to the idea of subscriptions,” said VNC Automotive sales engineering director Agustin Almansi.

“It’s clear to see that convenience and choice are key drivers behind a subscription model for certain vehicle features and, if such a move does deliver the flexibility that customers increasingly expect in everyday life, there’s a very strong case that such an approach will become the norm rather than the exception.”


Nissan NV350 Urvan (High Roof) 14-seater launched: RM125,000

                KUALA LUMPUR: The new facelifted Nissan NV350 Urvan (High Roof), a 14-passenger people mover, is priced at RM125,000 and comes with a 5-years or 150,000km warranty (whichever is first) for individual/company private registration.

For company commercial registration, the vehicle is priced at RM125,550 and warranty is 3-years or 100,000km (whichever is first).

Prices are on the road inclusive GST (except Langkawi and Labuan), without insurance.

The facelifted NV350 Urvan now comes with a new Nissan V-motion Signature Front Grille and improved front bumper, redesigned halogen headlamps with manual levelizer for better visibility during night drive, and a new steering wheel.

“The Nissan NV350 Urvan is one of Malaysia’s best-selling commercial vehicles due to its 14-passenger carrying ability, outstanding reliability and fuel efficient performance,” said Christopher Tan, sales and marketing director of Edaran Tan Chong Motor Sdn Bhd (ETCM).

The NV350 Urvan has a high-torque 2.5L YD25DDTi turbocharged engine with clean-diesel technology, paired with a 5-speed manual transmission.

Fuel consumption is rated at 8.7L/100km on the NEDC (New European Driving Cycle) test mode.

The facelifted NV350 Urvan is certified as an EEV (Energy Efficient Vehicle).

Features include a Speed Limiter (ECE R89: Speed Limitation Device), installed to adhere to the speed limit regulation in Malaysia of 100km/h for passenger vehicles > 12-seater, as well as the Fuel Cap with Lock (ECE R34: Prevention of Fire Risk).
Brake Assist System (BA), Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS), High Mount Stop Lamp and Child Safety Lock are standard safety features, while Nissan’s Zone Body Construction maximises protection for the occupants.

On-the-road price (inclusive GST (except Langkawi and Labuan), without Insurance) and warranty period for NISSAN NV350 Urvan are as follows:

March 2018 Promotion Campaign – “Engineers of Excitement”

ETCM has once again kicked-off the Nissan UEFA Champions League Campaign for the fourth year running.

The campaign will run throughout March, offering savings up to RM12,000 for the Nissan X-Trail, Serena and Almera.

Also, those who buy a Nissan during the promotion period can also win a brand new Nissan Teana 2.5XV or Hitachi premium appliances worth up to RM600,000.

Dates and venues for Nissan Test Drive Carnival and Roadshows are as follows:


Hyundai Elantra Executive launched at RM139,888

                PETALING JAYA: Hyundai-Sime Darby Motors (HSDM) has introduced a new Executive variant for its seventh-generation Elantra, which is offered at the more accessible price of RM139,888 without insurance in Peninsular Malaysia.

The Executive variant is RM19,000 lower than the Premium variant and gets most of the Premium's equipment which also includes SmartSense features such as Blind Spot-Collision Warning, Rear Cross Traffic Collision Warning, Safe Exit Warning, and Rear Occupant Alert.

The new entry-level variant comes with Black Fabric seats, manual seat adjustment, 4.2-inch TFT LCD Cluster, and a Day & Night Rear View Mirror.

The Elantra is built on a new vehicle platform and features the Intelligent Variable Transmission (IVT) that is mated to a Smartstream G1.6 petrol engine that delivers 123PS at 6,300rpm and a peak torque of 154Nm at 4,500rpm.

It has four drive modes of Smart, Comfort, Eco and Sport.

Designed based on Hyundai’s Sensuous Sportiness design concept, the Elantra carries an intricate design of geometric crystals cut and divided body surfaces which, coupled with the clever usage of lined patterns, resulting in colourful ‘Parametric Dynamics’.

Though the car now has a sleeker roofline compared to its predecessor, its headroom is not compromised.

The Elantra boasts 1,030mm of front headroom and 947mm of rear headroom.

The longer wheelbase also provides a best-in-class 964mm of rear legroom while the wider track width means improved shoulder room in the front and rear.

With over 474 litres of boot space and 60/40 split folding rear seats, this also makes it convenient to transport big bulky items.

The Elantra also delivers outstanding comfort, functionality and practicality.

The “immersive cocoon” interior envelops the driver in a technologically-advanced and sophisticated cabin that is akin to entering an airplane cockpit.

Apart from being equipped with six airbags, the Elantra has standard features such as the Electronic Stability Control, Anti-lock Braking System, Downhill Brake Control, Hill-start Assist Control, Brake Assist System, Traction Control System, Vehicle Stability Management and Immobiliser.

HDSM managing director Low Yuan Lung said the company had received a significant number of interest from customers on the new Elantra and also a preference for lower pricing.

"As with all fully imported cars, the exchange rate is one of the determining factor for the price of the car. The Elantra is a complete built-up unit that is fully-imported from Korea, therefore the exchange rate
does affect how we price the car.

"Having said that, we would still like to make the Elantra accessible to all our customers with the introduction of this new variant,” said Low.

Available at all Hyundai showrooms nationwide, the Elantra comes with a five-year or 300,000km (whichever comes first) warranty.

For details, contact Hyundai’s Customer Careline at 1-300-13-2000 or log on to www.hyundai.com.my.


BMW's i7 has a private screening room in the back seat

MUNICH: BMW AG long tried to bill its flagship 7 Series sedan as the more fun-to-drive alternative to similar offerings from Mercedes-Benz AG.

As the rivalry goes electric, the German manufacturer is trying to also win over people sitting in the back.

The i7 unveiled today boasts a luxurious interior that includes a flatscreen lowering from the ceiling to entertain passengers in the rear.

They also get more legroom because BMW made the car longer and wider.

The company plans to deliver the model, which starts at €135,900 (RM624,000) and offers 625km of range, to customers from November.

"It’s bigger than before, it has the most exhilarating entertainment you’ll see in any luxury car,” chief executive officer Oliver Zipse said.

"It’s the greatest offer BMW has ever made to the rear-seat compartment.”

But BMW is already behind in the luxury EV race, especially when it comes to range and availability.

Mercedes a year ago unveiled its EQS flagship sedan, which boasts a range of more than 700km.

Tesla Inc. is selling a high-performance version of its Model S that beats the i7 on range and acceleration.

Lucid Motors Inc. has already delivered several hundred of its electric Air sedans and plans to ship an updated version starting in June.

To catch up, BMW is pursuing a different technology strategy than most of its rivals.

While Mercedes, Lucid and Tesla build their vehicles on dedicated underpinnings, the i7 is made using the same architecture as its fossil fuel-powered sibling.

Zipse rejected the idea that BMW’s strategy puts it at a disadvantage. It instead hands the company greater flexibility to cater to shifting EV demands in different regions, he told reporters in New York last week.

"We don’t have to copy what others do,” he said.

"We have the size, the capital strength, the innovation capabilities to be a great system integrator.”

Driver’s car

BMW still touts the car as a model that’s fun to drive.

Its engineers have reduced the number of physical buttons, added a curved digital screen around the driver’s seat and updated software to assist with lane keeping and automatic parking.

The base i7 accelerates from zero to 100kph in 4.7 seconds - that’s slightly slower than the comparable EQS, and well behind the Model S.

Some analysts have questioned whether the i7 can compete with its rivals because of the carmaker’s platform approach.

Others are pointing to BMW’s successes with its iX SUV and i4 coupe introduced last fall, the latter of which also is derived from a combustion-engine platform.

"That doesn’t have to be a disadvantage,” said Bankhaus Metzler analyst Juergen Pieper.

"It’s not a given that Mercedes can stay ahead of BMW in the electric age.”

BMW 7 Series Highlights


2019 Nissan LEAF to get more power and longer range

                FRANKLIN (United States): Nissan is bringing a new long-range version of its LEAF EV in the shape of the E-Plus model for the 2019 model year.

Although Nissan's head of EV marketing, Brian Maragano, has confirmed to AutoGuide that the new model will have a larger battery than current LEAF models, a specific capacity wasn't given.

However, a slip-up by Nissan in 2016 and a further slip-of-the-tongue by a Swiss charging station manufacturer have all but confirmed it will be a 60kWh unit, which is a big leap forward from the current 40kWh battery pack.

A 60kWh battery would allow a significant increase in the size of the electric motor to 200hp, which would be 53hp more than the standard 2018 LEAF has to offer.

Of course, more power is always welcome, but with EVs there's nothing more important than the range they offer before the battery needs to be recharged.

Maragano declined to commit to a range for the LEAF E-Plus, but there's plenty of evidence already in the public domain to make reasoned estimates of what to expect. Some people posting on the My Nissan LEAF forum have been predicting a range of 362km from a 60kWh battery, which would be a decent jump of 119km over the current best of 243km.

If that 362km number is close to the mark it would put the LEAF E-Plus in the same bracket as entry-level versions of the Tesla Model S and the Chevrolet Bolt. In its base form, the Model S has a 50kWh battery and offers 197hp and a range of 354km.

Standard versions of the Chevy Bolt already have a 60kWh battery, and that makes it good for 200hp and range of 383km on a single charge.

Charging times should also come down too. And that's known because a leaked Nissan presentation has shown an 11- to 22-kW onboard charger, and the prototype of the car has been caught at the charging station fast-charging at 102kW, which is twice as fast as the current LEAF.


Millennium Welt's BMW 4S centre in Seremban 2 arriving in 2023

                SEREMBAN: Millennium Welt has broken ground on its new BMW 4S building in Seremban 2, which is scheduled to be completed by the first quarter of 2023.

The RM60mil, 153,948sq ft facility is situated within the satellite township of Seremban 2 and will be designed based on the latest BMW Retail NEXT concept.

The Seremban 2 BMW 4S centre will be equipped with an extensive aftersales facility, consisting of 12 productive bays, and 181 parking lots.

It will also house brands from across BMW Group Malaysia’s portfolio, including vehicles from BMW, BMW i, BMW M, BMW Premium Selection, BMW Motorrad, MINI and MINI Used Car NEXT.

Millennium Welt is an authorised dealer for the BMW brand in Malaysia, with four dealerships in the country.

BMW Group Malaysia managing director Hans de Visser said Millennium Welt has been an invaluable and reliable partner that continues to exemplify the brand’s promise of delivering Premium Ownership Experience.

“With this new facility, we are confident that these standards will not only be upheld, but also exceeded in the near future when the doors are open to our Seremban customers,” he said.

Millennium Welt managing director Bryan Wong said the Premium Ownership Experience journey begins as soon as the customer steps into the dealership.

“It is our determination to help every prospective customer find the perfect BMW, MINI or BMW Motorrad vehicle that truly fits their needs. With this new facility, we look forward to igniting a greater sense of fascination for our premium vehicles amongst our customers in Negeri Sembilan,” Wong said.

At present, customers and enthusiasts in the vicinity can head to the current showroom located along Jalan Tun Dr Ismail, which has been serving customers in Negeri Sembilan since 2013.


British govt announces funding for autonomous vehicles, electric cars

                LONDON: British finance minister Philip Hammond has announced £390 million (RM2.2bil) of funding to boost the development of low emission vehicles and autonomous vehicles.

Delivering his first budget statement to parliament, Hammond also announced support for electric vehicle infrastructure.

"Reliable transport networks are essential to growth and productivity," he said, adding that the funding would "build on our competitive advantage in low emission vehicles and the development of connected autonomous vehicles".

He also announced a 100 percent first-year capital allowance for the installation of electric vehicle charging infrastructure.

Last month, Japanese carmaker Nissan said it would build two new models in Britain despite the vote to quit the EU, giving Prime Minister Theresa May her most important corporate endorsement since the Brexit referendum in June.

A Nissan spokesman said discussions were also ongoing between the firm and the government over how Britain could support and encourage the uptake of electric vehicles, a key area for the company.

Just over 3 percent of cars sold in Britain last year were alternative fuel models - primarily plug-in hybrid and electric cars - but sales have risen 23 percent so far this year, with manufacturers seeking to attract buyers in an increasingly competitive market.

The government is encouraging tech firms and carmakers to develop and test autonomous driving technology in Britain, aiming to build an industry to serve a worldwide market it says will be worth around £900 billion (RM50tril).


Dr M woos Korean auto players

A Hyundai Nexo fuel cell electric vehicle, powered by hydrogen.
SEOUL: Malaysia wants to explore further cooperation in the automotive sector with South Korea, especially with the upcoming launch of the National automotive Policy 2019 (NAP 2019), said Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad.

The first of the three phases of NAP 2019 will focus on improving policies that involves new technologies, he said at a roundtable meeting with South Korean captains of industry here on Wednesday.

"Obviously, you (South Korea) have made tremendous progress. I tried your hydrogen car yesterday and it performed really well and I'm impressed by how quiet it is. The automotive industry progresses rapidly and the technology needs to (keep up)," he said.

The roundtable gathered chief executives from 29 companies, led by Korean Trade, Industry and Energy Minister Yoo Myung-hee.

Dr Mahathir said that Malaysia would like to see investments in high-tech manufacturing and is open to foreign investments.

However, it has now to be selective, he added.

Today, Malaysia would like to see investment in high-tech manufacturing like those in the fourth industrial revolution (IR 4.0), renewable energy such as solar and wind, and services that create decent-paying jobs, he said.

According to the World Economic Forum's 2018 Global Competitiveness Index, Malaysia is ranked 25th in terms of manufacturing quality and IR 4.0 readiness.

Malaysia has so far attracted investments from large Korean companies such as Lotte, Samsung, POSCO, Hanwha and SK Group. Small and medium-sized enterprises like Kumkang Kind, Affluent Best Blending and Youngreem Tech have also set up shop in Malaysia.

South Korea ranks as the fifth largest foreign investor in Malaysia.

As of 2018, a total of 376 manufacturing projects with South Korean participation have been implemented with total investment worth US$7.83 billion (RM25.89 billion).

During the roundtable, Dr Mahathir was accompanied by Foreign Affairs Minister Datuk Saifuddin Abdullah; Communication and Multimedia Minister Gobind Singh Deo; Water, Land and Natural Resources Minster Dr Xavier Jayakumar; Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad; and International Trade and Industry Minister Datuk Ignatius Darell Leiking.


US group says 803 unbelted rear-seat passengers died in 2018

                DETROIT: More than 800 rear-seat passengers who weren’t wearing seat belts were killed last year in US traffic crashes, and a highway safety group says states aren’t making enough progress in getting people to buckle up.

The Governors Highway Safety Association says in a report released today that more than 400 of the 803 people who died would have survived if they were belted.

The association put out a report in 2015 drawing attention to rear seat-belt use. But it says that since then, only two more states have enacted rear seat-belt laws.

The group, which represents state highway safety offices, says 20 states still don’t have laws requiring rear belt use. Of the 30 states with laws, it’s not a primary offense in 11 states, meaning that police can’t stop a car if rear-seat passengers are unbelted.

READ MORE: The Malaysian scenario — few back-seat passengers bother to belt up also

According to the association, the number of rear-seat passengers killed in crashes dropped from 883 in 2013. But surveys have found that rear-seat safety belt use dropped from 78% in 2013 to 76% last year.

The federal government is seeking public comment on a rule requiring automakers to warn drivers if rear passengers aren’t belted. The comment period expires on Nov. 26. A law requiring the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration to enact the rule was passed by Congress in 2012.

The association recommends that states enact laws allowing police to stop vehicles when rear passengers aren’t wearing belts, and that they publicise the benefits of buckling up in every seat position. It also is urging automakers to install rear seat reminders in their vehicles. — AP


Indonesia's EV insurance in limbo amid battery, spare part risks

                JAKARTA: Insurance firms have expressed support for the government’s push for electric vehicles (EVs), but due to the costly batteries and limited availability of spare parts, coverage for EVs may not be cheap compared with conventional vehicle insurance. Unless the government is willing to provide subsidies, an analyst predicted, insurers would charge higher premiums for EVs.

The coverage most likely would also exclude protection for batteries that were still under warranty by the manufacturers. Bern Dwyanto, executive director at the Indonesian General Insurance Association (AAUI), said auto insurance was one of the main contributors to general insurance growth in the country.

AAUI data show that auto insurance was the second-biggest category in general insurance by total premium value, only losing out to property insurance. Its premium value increased 15.7% to 8.15 trillion rupiah (US$1.2bil or RM5.37bil) last year.

That is why the association generally supports the push for EV adoption, according to Bern, who noted however that new types of risks required deeper calculations and said insurance companies had begun to study coverage, pricing and risk management for EV insurance.

“(The association) established a working committee in January to accelerate the process. The team will be responsible for producing a study on EV insurance, including the wording, premiums and deductibles,” Bern told The Jakarta Post on Wednesday.

Bern added that auto insurance for conventional vehicles and EVs could be separated due to the difference in risk.

Last month, AAUI head Budi Herawan said he aimed to submit a regulation proposal for EV insurance to the Financial Services Authority by the end of June, so it could be implemented by the organisation’s members in the second half of 2023.

However, Bern declined to explain the main points to be included in the proposal as discussions were ongoing. — The Jakarta Post


Škoda Vision iV features new interior concept

                PRAGUE: Škoda provides a look at its concept interior for its Vision iV - the company's first all-electric vehicle based on VW's Modular Electric Drive Kit (MEB), with what seems to be an innovatively spacious and intuitive layout with a seemingly free-floating central screen and a newly designed two-spoke steering wheel.

Without the centre tunnel, the designers at Škoda not only reconfigured the layout of the instrument panel and centre console, but also provided plenty of storage space on the lowest level between the driver and passenger seat. Two mobile phones, which can be wirelessly integrated into the infotainment and operating system, can be placed in the console while they being wirelessly charged.

The instrument panel consists of two levels whose lines and decorative stitching draw inspiration from the front of the vehicle.

The large free-standing screen appears to hover centrally above the instrument panel, in front of which there is a ledge for the hand that operates the touch screen.

The steering wheel has also been redesigned, now featuring two spokes and bearing the ‘ŠKODA’ logo in block capitals rather than the usual logo.

Over the next four years, the carmaker based in the Czech Republic will be investing around 2.0bil euros in alternative drive systems and new mobility services with a goal to introduce up to 10 electrified models by the end of 2022.

The world premiere of the concept will take place at the upcoming Geneva Motor Show from Mar 5 to 17.


JPJ launches special ‘FF’ series number plate to mark 77th anniversary

                SEREMBAN: The Road Transport Department (JPJ) has launched a special "FF" vehicle registration series to mark its 77th anniversary.

Transport Minister Anthony Loke said the public can bid for the special registration plate over JPJ's e-Bid portal from today.

"Those interested in applying for the FF series can bid online for five days till 10pm on May 18.

"I am confident that this series will bring in good revenue for the government," he told reporters after launching the department's 77th anniversary celebration here.

Loke said JPJ had previously earned more than RM10mil for a particular series.

He said the income received from the bidding would be announced after it closes.

At the event, Loke also launched the ebook Kurikulum Pendidikan Pemandu (KPP) which will allow those sitting for the JPJ driving test to pay only RM3 by doing so digitally.

Previously, those sitting to get a driver's licence had to pay RM13 while those seeking a motorcycle licence had to pay RM10.

"Those who sit for what is popularly known as the 'undang-undang' (theory) test previously had to buy the hard copy version but we have now decided to make it available digitally.

"Now, people have the option to either buy the hard copy version of KPP or the digital version which is a lot cheaper," he said.

Loke also launched another service known as JPJeID which will allow the public to access the department's digital services via mySIKAP and the MyJPJ mobile application.

The JPJ, he said, would also continue with its digitalisation plan to make it easier for the public to access its services.

"In fact, there will also be a lot more enforcement carried out digitally soon.

"During the recent Hari Raya, we started using drones to nab traffic offenders via the high-technology Enforcement Action Camera or EAC and Smart Enforcement Device or SmED," he said, adding that many more JPJ systems need to be integrated before it becomes fully digitalised.

Later, Loke said a German company which had exhibited caravans at the three-day JPJ Day exhibition has expressed interest to open an assembly line in Negri Sembilan.

"They told me the plan is to open a plant here which will serve both the Malaysian and Asean market.

"We certainly welcome such investments and I will follow up on this," he said.


Sanctioned street races will fail miserably, say expert and ex-mat rempit

                PETALING JAYA: Scheduling street races for mat rempit (illegal motorcycle racers) will not prevent problems such as drug abuse, intoxication and underaged or illegal riders, says criminologist and psychologist Dr Geshina Ayu Mat Saat.

The Universiti Sains Malaysia lecturer said illegal betting was also involved in street races, adding that she doubted the effectiveness of the proposal in tackling these vices.

She described mat rempit as “risk takers” who were unlikely to be impressed or thrilled by the Government’s plan to close certain city roads to allow them to race legally.

“They love it when there are obstacles. That’s the thrill they are seeking – not empty roads.”

Dr Geshina said the idea announced by Federal Territories Minister Datuk Seri Tengku Adnan Tengku Mansor was not novel, as she had heard of similar moves in the Britain while studying there.

Tengku Adnan said the night track would be modelled after the bi-weekly Car Free mornings in Kuala Lumpur, where several roads in Kuala Lumpur would be closed for a few hours to enable the mat rempit to race unhampered.

Dr Geshina said scheduled races would make roads safer for pedestrians and other road users provided the mat rempit only raced at the designated times and places.

But she said it was unlikely that all of them would come to Kuala Lumpur and stop racing elsewhere.

“I don’t think it will work,” she said.

Dr Geshina suggested that an in-depth study be carried out on the issue of mat rempit, adding that the problem ran deeper than just racing.

A former member of a notorious mat rempit gang in Kuala Terengganu expressed agreement with Dr Geshina's opinion, saying closed roads will not give the illegal speedsters the same thrill.

Abdul Ramli Jusoh, 24, said the idea will not work and believes they will look for alternative routes to show off their stunts to motorists.

“As a former mat rempit, I know what gives them a high and sets their adrenaline pumping.

“They are attention-seekers and want people to see their performance.

“They won’t be keen to race without a crowd,” he said in an interview from his home in Kampung Bukit Guntong in Kuala Terengganu.

Abdul Ramli said he and many of his friends had given up the illegal activity after witnessing the deaths of three of their fellows in a horrific crash in November 2010.


Polestar readies performance parts for four Volvo models

                GOTHENBURG: Volvo's performance division Polestar has introduced a new line of products in the form of Polestar Performance Parts.

Polestar Performance Parts offers a wide range of extensively developed enhancements for the S60, V40, V60 and XC60 models to begin with, including chassis parts, wheels, exhaust, interior and exterior details, and more.

Polestar Performance Parts are designed under the philosophy "Made to Perform", leveraging on  the 20-year motorsport experience of the engineers and racing drivers from Polestar and its motorsport partner Cyan Racing.

The Polestar Performance Parts can be bought as a complete package, including chassis parts, wheels and tyres, intake and exhaust, as well as exterior and interior parts. All of these components promise a more compelling driving experience, especially in combination with the Polestar Performance Optimisation, and can be bought in separate packages as well.

Polestar said its parts are developed and tested together with Volvo Cars to the same high standards as all other products. This process ensures a perfect fit and finish, with no impact on the Volvo factory warranty.

The Polestar Performance Parts will be available from April. Prices are yet to be announced. Further Volvo models will be included in the Polestar Performance Parts range in due course.

 S60.


Six automakers to recall 29,000 vehicles over faulty parts in S. Korea

                SEOUL: BMW, Mercedes-Benz and four other companies will voluntarily recall nearly 29,000 vehicles to fix faulty parts, the South Korean transport ministry said.

This is the latest in a series of recalls by carmakers in South Korea and vehicle importers due to problems with parts, Yonhap news agency reported.

The companies, including Hyundai, Toyota, Honda and Jaguar Land Rover are recalling a combined 28,946 units across 35 models, the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport said in a statement on Wednesday.

The problems include a faulty brake vacuum pump in BMW's 630i xDrive Gran Tourismo model, a possible failure of the software of engine control unit in Mercedes-Benz's C 200 sedan, a possible failure of an emergency braking system in Toyota's Prius 2WD sedan, and a fragile propeller shaft in Hyundai's Grand Starex van, it said.
The companies have already begun or will begin to provide repair and replacement services from today.

Vehicle owners can contact or visit designated repair and service centres to replace the parts for free, the ministry said.


Five things we love about the Infiniti Q70

Muscular and expressive designExterior design emphasises width and strength, and gets new all-LED headlights, double arch grille with wave mesh pattern, updated bumpers, lower front chrome surround.

Bose Premium sound systemYou get 10 powerful speakers that provide an immersive audio experience which adds to a highly refined motoring experience.

Elegant and classy cabinAn analogue clock on the dashboard is part of the timeless, beautifully crafted cabin with supple leather, quality wood trim and lots of nice soft-touch materials.

2.5-litre V6 engineIt’s powerful and has 218hp and 253Nm of torque. The high revving engine has CVTCS (continuously variable valve timing control system) for better response and efficiency. 20-inch wheels and performance tyres
Part of an RM35,000 optional Sports Premium package, for more dynamic driving.


Geely's new electric car brand is called Geometry

                SHANGHAI: Geely, China’s highest profile car maker with investments in Volvo and Daimler, launched a premium all-electric car brand “Geometry” on Thursday as it pushes ahead with its plans to boost production of new energy vehicles.

The move comes as automakers race to develop vehicles powered by means other than petrol to meet an expected rise in demand as the world’s top car market enforces official production quotas designed to reduce smog.

Geometry will take overseas orders but will mainly focus on the Chinese market and will launch more than 10 pure electric models in multiple segments by 2025, Geely said in a statement on Thursday.

The company added it had already received more than 26,000 orders globally for its first model, the Geometry A (as shown here). The longer-range version of the model has an ability to travel up to 500km on a single charge, Geely said.

Geely launched Geometry at an event in Singapore and said the city-state would eventually become a target market. (Not so for Malaysia, which a Geely spokesman said must come out with a clear policy on electric cars and offer attractive government incentives and a robust infrastructure to warrant Geely consideration in selling Geometry cars there.)

“The launch of Geometry and its first product advances Geely’s strategic goal of becoming one of world top 10 automotive groups,” An Conghui, president of Zhejiang Geely Holding Group, said in the statement.

Geely set up a new joint venture with Germany’s Daimler just last month to build the next generation of Smart electric cars in China. Smart is Daimler’s small-car brand.

Geely is also developing new energy commercial vehicles like pickup trucks at another unit, Yuan Cheng Auto.

China has been a keen supporter of new energy vehicles (NEV) including pure battery electric, hybrid, and plug-in hybrid technologies, and started implementing NEV sales quota requirements for automakers.

According to a Reuters report, global automakers are planning a US$300 billion surge in spending on electric vehicle technology over the next five to 10 years, with nearly half of the money targeted at China.

Geely posted sales growth of 20 percent in 2018. However, it is forecasting largely steady sales this year as the country’s giant auto market struggles with slowing economic growth and more cautious consumers. Last year, the overall market contracted for the first time since the 1990s.

The Chinese carmaker bought Volvo Cars in 2010 from Ford Motor Co in what was China’s biggest acquisition of a foreign car maker at the time.