Celebrating 50 years of the Mazda Cosmo Sport

                NEW YORK: It was 50 years ago Tuesday that Mazda launched the Cosmo Sport 110S, and in doing so put the automotive world in a spin.

It wasn't the first sportscar to come from Japan, nor was it the first production car to be powered by what was at the time considered the revolutionary Wankel rotary engine.

However, it was the first vehicle from any manufacturer that actually showed what Felix Wankel's invention could deliver in terms of driving fun and performance when all of the problems were ironed out.

When the rotary engine went from a patent to a production reality in the early 1950s, it was heralded as the future of the internal combustion engine.

It ditched the conventional bank or banks of cylinders going up and down in order to rotate the drive shaft for a single piston turning each step of combustion and compression directly into drive to the wheels. It meant an absolutely tiny engine block and one that despite a very small displacement - 1.1-1.3 litres - could deliver significant levels of horsepower.

As such, everyone from Citroen and Mercedes to Norton and Suzuki licensed it. However, though rotary engine cars and motorbikes started coming to market in the 1960s, most companies soon decided to ditch the engine as it was not as reliable nor as efficient as they'd first thought, even if it offered electric motor-like torque delivery, a huge rev band and a quieter, low vibration driving experience.

Everyone except Mazda, that is. The Cosmo was the world's first car to use a twin rotor engine - a breakthrough its own engineers had achieved in Japan - and in the years that followed, while everyone else went back to pistons that punch up and down, Mazda stuck to perfecting cylinders that circle, culminating in the Mazda 787B, which in 1991 won Le Mans on the track, and the RX-7 sportscar on the road.

From 1978 until 2002 it was constantly voted one of the world's best driver's cars and even embarrassed the likes of Porsche. For example, the third-gen RX-7 built from 1992-2002 had a tiny 1.3 liter turbocharged rotary engine, but served up 276hp.

"The rotary engine is part of Mazda's DNA," said Philippe Geffroy, the head of Mazda's operations in France. "It has paved our history over the last 50 years."

And yet, since 2010 no car in its current lineup has boasted a rotary engine, even if Mazda used the 2015 Tokyo motor show to tease the RX concept, a sleek supercar that is purportedly powered by a reimagining of the rotary engine.

"Mazda continues to explore and develop this technology with the objective to potentially use it once again in the future," said Geffroy.

Its compact nature could make it the perfect range-extending motor for an electric car, or the perfect low-center-of-gravity foundation for an out-and-out supercar. And there are already whispers that a production version of the RX concept could well make its debut at this October's Tokyo motor show.

However, for now, they're just whispers. "For the moment," explains Geffroy, "Nothing has been confirmed in this area."


Toyota-backed flying car firm Joby seeks Japan air certification

                TOKYO: Joby Aviation Inc, a US air taxi startup backed by Japanese automaker Toyota Motor Corp, said today it has applied to Japan's transport ministry for aircraft certification as it prepares to launch urban transportation services.

Joby, in which Toyota has invested US$394 million, designs and builds all-electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft.

The startup in May received certification from the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) allowing it to begin commercial air-taxi operations with conventional aircraft.

The California-based startup has more regulatory hurdles to clear in the United States before its five-seater eVTOL aircraft can fly passengers.


Isuzu Blue Power aces Borneo Safari 2019

                KUALA LUMPUR: Having built a solid reputation as one of the toughest and most capable off-road vehicles in the annual Borneo Safari off-road challenge, the Isuzu D-Max nameplate has impressed with its tenacious off-roading ability in one of the toughest and most extreme events in the region.

The latest Isuzu D-Max pick-up with its Blue Power 1.9-litre engine continued the tradition and proved its mettle by successfully negotiating the tough terrain in the seven-day event and picking up the organiser’s Special Award, recognising its remarkable off-roading capabilities.

Fresh from its launch only a month earlier, the new D-Max 1.9-litre that entered the event barely clocked 200km on its odometer before it was driven in earnest into the jungles of Sabah as a media support vehicle for the grueling event that began and ended in Kota Kinabalu recently.

The ‘Blue Monster’ was virtually stock standard save for a few additions to make it more suited to the terrain including a body lift to fit the mud terrain tyres, long travel shock absorbers, snorkel, winch and heavy duty guards to protect the vehicle from the extreme elements faced in the jungles.

“Off-road enthusiasts understand that strong and balanced power delivery is vital when tackling extremes in the jungle. With its impressive power delivery perfectly matched to its new 6-speed gearbox, the new 1.9-litre Blue Power D-Max simply showed its pedigree and dispelled any notion about the capability of its diminutive engine displacement,” said Isuzu Malaysia chief operating officer Masayuki Suzuki.

The new D-Max 1.9-litre variant features a revolutionary 1,898cc engine that utilises state-of-the-art design and manufacture to develop improved engine performance and durability.

It has lighter moving components and more finely-honed parts to reduce friction thereby lessening stress on individual parts.

Its new Variable Geometry System (VGS) turbocharger system also improves engine response particularly at low RPM to give drivers improved engine response from very low in the rev range and this translates to better performance both for on and off-road driving.

The ‘Blue Monster’ joined ‘Red Monster’, ‘White Monster’ and ‘Black Monster’ as part of Isuzu Malaysia’s commitment as the event’s Diamond Sponsor. Members of the media drove the vehicles to get close to the heart of the action in this year’s event which has been organised annually since 1991.

Isuzu Malaysia has been a keen supporter of Borneo Safari, furnishing it with its dependable D-Max pick-up trucks for the last 13 years.


Mazda Motorsports adds hardtop availability for racing customers

                LOS ANGELES: Mazda Motorsports introduced the MX-5 Global Cup race car in 2014 as nature intended: as an open-top roadster. Now, those who compete in series that require a hardtop have a factory-approved option, as today Mazda Motorsports has confirmed pricing and availability for the track-only, removable MX-5 Cup hardtop.

The hardtop will be priced at US$4,420 (around RM20,000), with orders being accepted exclusively through Mazda Motorsports from owners and those who have committed to buying an MX-5 Global Cup race car. Deliveries will begin in April.

“While our first year was spent concentrating on the successful launch of the MX-5 Cup car in our Battery Tender Global Mazda MX-5 Cup presented by BFGoodrich Tires, we knew that was just one arena for customers. Now with an available hardtop, Mazda racers can compete in SCCA and NASA Club Racing and in the Pirelli World Challenge TCA class,” said David Cook, business development manager, Mazda Motorsports.


German police probe possible arson at Tesla site

The site of the Tesla Gigafactory for electric cars in Gruenheide near Berlin as seen on April 27. — AP
BERLIN: German police are investigating whether a fire that broke out overnight at the construction site of Tesla's first European gigafactory had a political motive, after far-left activists claimed responsibility.

The fire at Gruenheide in the eastern state of Brandenburg early on Wednesday morning damaged several power cables leading to the Tesla site and an area of around 3 square metres, said a spokesman for the LKA state criminal investigation office.

The spokesman said arson was not being ruled out and investigators were examining a letter that circulated on social media during Wednesday which claimed responsibility.

The letter, which was published on a radical left platform, said it had cut the power supply to the Tesla site by setting fire to six high-voltage cables above ground.

"Tesla is neither green, ecological nor social," said the letter, according to the LKA spokeman.

Tesla, which has said it could produce up to 500,000 Model Y cars at the site annually, delayed the opening of its gigafactory to late 2021 from an initial July 1 date after adding plans to set up a battery cell plant there.

Tesla chief executive Elon Musk has complained about German red tape needed for lengthy approval processes after construction of the factory was held up by environmentalists concerned about local wildlife and water resources.


McLaren MSO Carbon Series LT sold out

                LONDON: McLaren Special Operations, the bespoke division of McLaren Automotive, has sold out all 25 limited edition units of the MSO Carbon Series LT.

Strictly limited to 25 units globally, and based on the 675LT Spider, the Carbon Series LT has been produced in response to
requests from McLaren customers captivated by the visual carbon fibre bodied McLaren P1 displayed recently at the International Geneva Motor Show.

Staying true to the ‘Longtail’ ethos, established by the McLaren F1 in the late 1990s, the MSO Carbon Series LT has a gloss carbon fibre body.

As with the 675LT Spider, the front bumper with larger splitter and end plates, front under body, side skirts, side intakes, lower side intakes, rear bodyside lower, rear fenders, rear deck, rear bumper, diffuser and ‘Longtail’ Airbrake are all carbon fibre.

In addition, the MSO Carbon Series LT is fitted with a gloss finished carbon fibre electrically retractable roof and tonneau, A-pillars, bonnet and rear deck, side blades, complete front and rear wings, and even fuel filler flap.

The McLaren Track Telemetry pack, which includes three track cameras, is fitted as standard equipment.

The front wings also feature GT3-inspired functional louvres.

In total, the MSO Carbon Series LT features around 40 percent additional carbon fibre parts over the standard car.

It is therefore not possible to retro-fit the gloss carbon fibre body to an already ordered 675LT Spider and the 25 units supplement the previously announced 500 editions of the standard car that sold out in weeks after the car’s debut on December 4, 2015.

Under the gloss carbon fibre skin of the MSO Carbon Series LT sits the heavily-revised 3.8-litre twin turbo V8 powertrain from its Coupe sibling.

The power output and torque figures remain unchanged, with 675PS (666bhp) delivered at 7,100rpm and 700Nm available between 5,000-6,500rpm.

The changes to the powertrain saw more than 50 percent of the components replaced to ensure optimised levels of power, torque and drivability.

These include new, more efficient turbos, detail design changes to the cylinder heads and exhaust manifolds, new camshaft and lightweight connecting rods, and a faster-flowing fuel pump and delivery system.

Acceleration from 0-100km/h takes just 2.9 seconds, and 200km/h is achieved in 8.1 seconds – giving away only 0.2 seconds to the more aerodynamically optimised and lighter Coupe.

The MSO Carbon Series LT is only the third model to wear the LT badge.

The first, the 675LT Coupé, arrived last year resurrecting the ‘Longtail’ name after nearly 20 years.

McLaren Automotive also added the most focused, fastest and exhilarating open top model to ever wear a McLaren badge with the 675LT Spider, further strengthening the ‘LT’ brand.


Buy discounted BHPetrol e-vouchers at 11street

                PETALING JAYA: Those who buy BHPetrol vouchers from 11street.my can get a special discount, from September 28 till October 7, 2015.

The vouchers can be used to buy petrol at selected BHPetrol stations in the Klang Valley until October 23.

Limited to a maximum of three vouchers per day (RM10 per piece), the vouchers are available on a first-come, first-serve basis to 11street.my members.

Customers can redeem the vouchers via their smartphones.

"We choose 11street.my as our partner because of its popularity in the online marketing platform. By having BHPetrol vouchers in their marketplace at a special discounted price, we hope to reach their customers as our potential customers too,” said BHPetrol senior marketing manager Baba Tan.

11street vice president of merchandising Bruce Lim said the collaboration with BHPetrol highlighted the company's commitment to offer customers with great savings via competitively priced deals.


BMW pouring money into battery cell centre

                FRANKFURT: BMW will bundle its battery cell expertise in a new competence centre, the German luxury carmaker said, adding it would invest 200 million euros (RM982mil) in the Munich site over the next four years.

“By producing battery-cell prototypes, we can analyse and fully understand the cell’s value-creation processes. With this build-to-print expertise, we can enable potential suppliers to produce cells to our specifications,” BMW board member Oliver Zipse said in a statement on Friday.

“The knowledge we gain is very important to us, regardless of whether we produce the battery cells ourselves, or not.”

The centre will open in early 2019, BMW said.


Rivian faces ban from Michigan car dealers in direct-sales fight

                DETROIT: Michigan auto dealers are trying to block startup electric carmakers including Rivian automotive Inc. and Lucid Motors Inc. from following in Tesla Inc.’s footsteps by selling vehicles directly to consumers and servicing them in the state.

A bill introduced in the Michigan legislature last week would block any manufacturer other than Tesla from selling cars to customers without a dealer as an intermediary and from owning and operating service and repair facilities.

The 11-year-old company has raised about US$6 billion from backers including Ford Motor Co. and Amazon.com Inc. It expects to begin production of its first two vehicles — a battery-powered pickup and a sport-utility vehicle — by mid-2021.

The Michigan bill is an attempt to shut the door behind Tesla, which prevailed in a years-long legal battle with Michigan auto dealers in January when the Michigan attorney-general granted a workaround that allows the electric carmaker to deliver its vehicles to buyers without requiring them to leave the state.

The attorney-general’s stipulation also allows Tesla to indirectly own service centres in Michigan through a subsidiary.

Franchise laws

This sets Tesla apart from Ford, General Motors Co., Fiat Chrysler Automobiles NV and other auto companies, which operate under franchise laws that have been on the books for decades and were originally put in place to prevent manufacturers from opening stores that competed with dealers.

"This is a bullseye on Rivian and Lucid and any EV manufacturer that would come in after Tesla does,” said James Chen, Rivian’s vice president of public policy. Auto dealers are "protecting a monopoly through legislation.”

The Michigan Automobile Dealers Association, which represents about 600 new-car dealerships in the state, says the agreement with Tesla didn’t change state law banning direct sales, and the bill is intended to clear up any ambiguity.

"That settlement was based on a clear set of specific facts for a specific time,” said Terry Burns, executive vice president of the dealer association, known as Mada.

Republican Representative Jason Sheppard, who sponsored the bill, couldn’t immediately be reached for comment.

Major victory

Tesla’s agreement with the Michigan attorney-general Dana Nessel was a major victory for the Palo Alto, California-based company and a blow to dealers and auto manufacturers that have tried to stymie Tesla in other states.

Some traditional automakers including Volkswagen AG are remaking their retail operations to market electric vehicles and set the new technology apart in the eyes of consumers.

Plug-in truck maker Rivian, which aims to begin selling its R1T pickup and R1S SUV next year without a franchised dealer network, likely will open its first showrooms in California and Illinois, states that are friendly to its business model, Chen said.

The company also has 2,400 employees in California, Michigan and a production facility in Normal, Illinois.

"Michigan is one of our homes,” Chen said. "So we don’t want one of our three home states basically locking us out.”


Proton opens first flagship 4S centre in Sabah

                KOTA KINABALU: Fook Loi Corporation (Sabah) Sdn Bhd (Fook Loi) has opened the first Proton flagship 4S Centre in Malaysia.

Fook Loi group executive director Thomas Chiu Kui Yin said he could see big potential for Proton in Sabah.

“Deciding to become a Proton dealer was not difficult because we see the potential for Proton in Sabah. The current range of Proton models is highly competitive and technologically advanced with features that appeal to car buyers”.

The opening ceremony was presided by Sabah chief minister Datuk Seri Mohd Shafie Apdal. Also present were Proton CEO Dr Li Chunrong, Fook Loi directors and senior management members of Proton.

Early in its rebranding efforts, Proton realised that in order to capture and expand its consumer base, it needed to have sufficient outlets to cater to their needs, said Dr Li.

"Since outlets are our first point of contact, numerous steps have been taken to ensure that a wholesome experience starts here. These efforts have paid off. Our sales have been on an increasing trend and with our new products, we are confident that we are on track for the company’s return to profitability.”

Chinese car maker Zhejiang Geely Holding Group bought a 49.9% stake in Proton in 2017. The deal with DRB-Hicom also saw Geely getting Proton's 51% stake in Lotus.


Nissan's most expensive car ever is a 720-hp GT-R sports car

                FRANKFURT: Nissan has unveiled its most expensive car to date - a rare, racy and absurdly pricey sports car developed in cooperation with the car designers at Italdesign.

Priced at an incredible €1.2 million (RM6mil), the Nissan GT-R50 is a special edition of the GT-R sports car to mark the 50th anniversary of the series (about three years late, mind).

Limited to a maximum of 50 models, this heavily tuned status symbol is hand-made with carbon fibre parts at Italdesign in Turin and is a high-powered version of the 3.8-litre V6 turbo, increasing output by almost 20 per cent to 720hp, Nissan says.

This allows the GT-R50 to accelerate from a standstill to 100kph in less than 3 seconds and to reach a top speed that is limited to 315 kph - for the sake of the tyres, according to Nissan.

In addition, the car comes with a significantly tweaked design, which hardly adopts any body part of the series model and brings new headlights, a flatter roof and a completely rebuilt rear with rear lights like burning engines. There's even a hydraulically adjustable spoiler.


F1 unlikely to return to Malaysia anytime soon, says circuit chief

                SINGAPORE: Formula One is unlikely to return to Malaysia anytime soon as the government focuses its efforts on rebuilding the economy from the ravages of the coronavirus pandemic, the circuit's boss said.

Azhan Shafriman Hanif, chief executive of the Sepang International Circuit which used to host the race, told reporters in Singapore late Wednesday the government may reconsider its options after two to three years.

The Sepang track, located outside the Malaysian capital Kuala Lumpur, first hosted the race in 1999, with the last Grand Prix held there in 2017.

Malaysia dropped out of the F1 calendar from 2018 amid the rising cost of hosting the event.

"At this juncture, the answer is no, not for the time being," Azhan Shafriman said when asked if Malaysia was planning to host the race again.

"Perhaps in another two to three years when the economy has stabilised."

He said Malaysia previously hosted F1 "to put the country on the map" through sports tourism.

But for F1 to return, the government needs to study the "bigger picture" in terms of its benefits to the country.

"We need to know what is the return in terms of the spillover effect," he said.

"We need to look at the rebranding, how do we monetise the platform. We need to talk about technology transfer, talent development and environmental sustainability."

He and other circuit officials were in Singapore this week to promote the upcoming Petronas Grand Prix motorcycle racing, also known as MotoGP, to be held at the Sepang track from October 21-23.

It will be the first MotoGP race at Sepang in two years following its suspension due to the pandemic.

There had been speculation about F1's return to Malaysia to fill the void after Russia was dropped from the race calendar following President Vladimir Putin's invasion of Ukraine in February.

Malaysia's neighbour Singapore hosts a Formula One night race which will take place from Sept 30 to Oct 2.

Azhan Shafriman said Singapore "made the right call" to promote the event not only as a race but also as entertainment which includes concerts and parties.

"If Formula One were to come back to Malaysia, it has to be hinged on something else, not only on the race. There must be another purpose why we are doing Formula One," he said.


New Moto Guzzi V100 Mandello range unleashed from RM99,900

                PETALING JAYA: Didi Group, the official distributor of the Moto Guzzi brand in Malaysia, has unveiled the Moto Guzzi V100 Mandello line-up which combines the sporty performance of a roadster with the comfort of a touring bike.

Available in two variants, the V100 Mandello is priced from RM99,900 while the V100 Mandello S starts from RM117,900.

Featuring cutting-edge technologies, the V100 Mandello is built at Moto Guzzi's iconic factory in Mandello de Lario, Italy.

The V100 Mandello is powered by Moto Guzzi's first "compact block" 1,042cc 90-degree transverse V-twin that delivers 115hp and 105Nm of torque and mated to a six-speed transmission.

In the V100 Mandello S, the transmission comes with an electronic quick shift system.

The front suspension of the V100 Mandello is the hydraulic telescopic 41mm USD fork which is adjustable in spring preload and rebound, while the rear is an aluminium single-sided swingarm with left-hand single shock and adjustable in spring preload in rebound.

On the V100 Mandello S, the suspension system is the Öhlins Smart EC 2.0 semi-active type.

The semi-active suspension system allows simple and customised calibration of the fork and shock absorbers with two operating modes of semi-active and manual, both of which can be selected using the buttons on the handlebar.

The motorcycle is also the world's first to get an adaptive aerodynamics system that automatically adjusts the position of deflectors on the sides of the 17-litre fuel tank depending on the speed and selected riding mode.

It also has an electronic-adjust top fairing that protects riders from on-rushing air.

Other standard equipment includes a full LED light cluster with DRL, the “bending lights” system which has a pair of additional lights in the parabolas to illuminate the inside of the turn when leaning, the USB port located in the storage compartment beneath the passenger seat, cruise control and 5-inch TFT colour instrumentation.

Meanwhile, Moto Guzzi MIA, the multimedia platform that allows a smartphone to be connected to the motorcycle's instrumentation via Bluetooth, is only available in the V100 Mandello S.

Also reserved for the V100 Mandello S are heated hand grips and a tyre pressure monitoring system.

The motorcycle also comes with four riding modes of Tour, Rain, Road and Sport that manage three different types of engine mapping, four levels of traction control, two levels of engine braking and the opening of the side deflectors.

The V100 Mandello is available in Bianco Polare and Rosso Magma, while the V100 Mandello S comes in Verde 2121 and Grigio Avanguardia.

There is also the V100 Mandello Aviazione Navale version, limited to just 1,913 numbered units to commemorate the strong bond that has endured for more than a century between Moto Guzzi and the Italian Navy.

However, Didi Group is not expected to offer this edition in Malaysia.

The motorcycle can also be accessorised with rigid side cases, a top box, rear luggage rack, high windscreen, a passenger comfort seat and engine guards among others.

Didi Group chairman Rewi Hamid Bugo said: "We are proud to be able to launch the Moto Guzzi V100 in Malaysia in conjunction with Piaggio Asia Pacific regional media test ride programme to highlight not only the new V100 Mandello but also Malaysia to the regional press in attendance."


Tesla needs more time to turn profit; founding engineer steps down

                SAN FRANCISCO: Tesla Inc on Wednesday pushed back its profit timeline once again after missing financial targets in the second quarter, while announcing that the pioneer of the company’s electric batteries, J.B. Straubel, was stepping down from his role as chief technology officer (CTO).

Straubel would remain at Tesla to becomes a senior advisor. Tesla's vice-president of technology Drew Baglino, a long-time employee, would become the new CTO.

A quarterly loss was deeper than expected, and despite record deliveries in the quarter, revenue came in lighter than analysts’ expectations. Moreover, margins - a focus of investors - narrowed in the quarter, adding to Tesla’s challenges in delivering profit going forward.

Shares fell 11.5% after hours and extended losses after the announcement about Straubel, a founding engineer who will become a senior adviser.

Under pressure to meet his repeated promises to make Tesla sustainably profitable, chief executive Elon Musk is trying to contain costs while still spending on major initiatives from a Shanghai factory and assembly-line to upcoming models such as the Model Y SUV and a Semi commercial truck.

Tesla initially promised to be profitable in the third quarter of 2018 and has now pushed back that target multiple times. Now profit is expected in the fourth quarter of 2019, with the current quarter to be break-even, Musk said.

In a statement on Wednesday, Tesla said it was focusing less on profit and more on volume growth, capacity expansion and cash generation. Musk said the company had grown to the point of “being self-funding,” indicating he might not need another cash infusion following a record-setting capital raising earlier this year.

Tesla said on Wednesday it had trimmed its capital expenditure target for 2019 to US$1.5 billion to US$2.0 billion, from US$2.0 billion to $2.5 billion. It ended the quarter with US$5 billion in cash and cash equivalents.

Investing.com analyst Clement Thibault told Reuters that Tesla’s results “will inevitably lead to more questions about its ability to stabilize and turn a profit.”

Tasked with Tesla’s groundbreaking battery technology since Tesla’s early beginnings, Straubel directed the development of the audacious plan to make a sportscar powered by bundled laptop batteries.

The quiet, retiring Straubel has been seen as a good partner for showy Musk.

Even while growing, Tesla has laid off workers and pledged to close some stores to lower costs. Facing increased competition from a slew of European rivals with electric offerings, it has also tinkered with its pricing.

Most recently, it eliminated the least expensive versions of its Model S sedan and Model X SUV, while cutting the starting price of its Model 3 to US$38,990.

Tesla’s strong second-quarter deliveries assuaged doubts about demand for the Model 3, but concerns linger, especially since a federal tax credit was cut by half on July 1 and expires at the end of the year.

Many analysts note that Tesla will be challenged not only to meet its deliveries target of 360,000 to 400,000 vehicles this year, but to keep profit margins from further eroding.

Automotive gross margins dropped in the quarter from 20% to 19%.

Musk gave bold predictions for the long-term demand for the Model 3 and upcoming Model Y combined, saying that it could reach 2 million vehicles per year.

The company repeated a target of producing 10,000 vehicles per week globally by the end of 2019.


Defeat device car owners can claim damages, says EU court adviser

                BRUSSELS: Owners of vehicles equipped with so-called defeat devices have a right to compensation from the vehicle manufacturer, an adviser to the top EU court said today in a case brought against Mercedes-Benz.

Defeat devices are mechanisms or software that can change vehicle emissions levels, leading to disputes over whether manufacturers use them to mask the true pollution levels of their vehicles.

Volkswagen admitted in 2015 to using software to cheat US emissions tests on some diesel engines.

Judges of the Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU) are not bound by advice from their advocates general, but follow them in the majority of cases.

German lawyer Claus Goldenstein, who represents 42,500 clients with interest in the case, said the opinion was significant by including negligent, not just intentional, behaviour of companies, which would make enforcement of claims easier.

Advocate General Athanasios Rantos also said it was for EU members to determine methods for calculating compensation, ensuring it was commensurate with the loss or damage sustained.

Mercedes-Benz said it remained to be seen how the court would rule and noted the opinion was not binding.

The case was brought to a German court by the buyer of a used Mercedes C 220 CDI, whose exhaust gas recirculation system operated within a temperature range. In colder outside temperatures, the recirculation is reduced, leading to increased nitrogen oxide emissions.

The court in Regensburg provisionally established that this constituted an unlawful defeat device.

The German court asked the CJEU whether, under EU law, the purchaser of a vehicle equipped with such a device has a right to compensation against the vehicle manufacturer and how this compensation should be calculated.

In May, Volkswagen said it would pay £193 million ($242 million) as part of an out-of-court settlement to around 91,000 British drivers over its diesel emissions scandal.


Hino Malaysia ups warranty programme for 500 Series truck

                PETALING JAYA: Hino Motors Sales (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd (HMSM) has enhanced its warranty programme with 5-year/500,000km coverage for chassis and powertrain of the Hino 500 Series for medium heavy-duty (MHCV) and prime mover applications.

The new programme, which began from March 1, does not cover usage for mixer, tipper and compactor applications.

Compared to the previous offer of 1-year/unlimited mileage for chassis warranty and 2-year/200,000km mileage for powertrain, the new warranty programme is the highest for this range in the market.

HMSM said it was confident to roll out this longest warranty period in its class as its products were known for its QDR - Quality, Durability and Reliability.

“This new offering is part of our dedication to quality, particularly in relation to our vehicles and customer relationship.

"At Hino Malaysia, every decision we make is designed around the customer-centric edges and more so to solidify their trust in Hino Truck,” said HMSM managing director Atsushi Uchiyama.

The new warranty programme also comes Hino Connect telematics system with 5 years' free subscription.

Hino Connect is a set of services that connects the vehicle with customer’s office through a telematics system which provides vehicle data, fleet position, and reviews driving performance that allow operators/customers to make informed decisions and take the necessary actions in increasing the productivity of their fleet.

Packaged with a 7-inch touchscreen monitor, Hino Connect is designed to improve safety and security with 24-hour call centre assist and theft monitoring system.

When complemented with Hino Driver Training at Hino Total Support Customer Center (HTSCC), fleet efficiency canbe improved with savings of up to 10% in fuel economy can be achieved.

Also included is a 3-time Free Service Programme (FSP) that includes labour, parts, and lubricants.

With this Free Service Programme, HMSM aims to give the best after-sales support and this would convey its company’s gratitude to the customers for their trust and confidence in Hino products.


New Honda Accord with 1.5L turbo engine open for booking

                PETALING JAYA: Honda Malaysia chose Valentine's Day to announce that booking for its new Accord is now open at all its dealerships nationwide.

This 10th-generation Accord is set to be launched in Malaysia in the first quarter.

The 10th-generation Accord has a fastback styling. Its new exterior design comes with full LED headlights and taillights. Its wider stance is matched by a lower hood as well as lower and longer roofline for a sportier presence.

The latest Accord also features twin tailpipe chrome finisher and unique Honda 18-inch alloy wheels with resonator to reduce noise.

The new Accord is powered by an enhanced 1.5L VTEC turbocharged engine, which is a first for the flagship model.

It offers maximum power output of 198hp and maximum torque of 260Nm, which is more powerful than a 2.4-litre engine performance (173hp/225Nm). The enhanced turbocharged engine is said to give more efficient power distribution and improved fuel efficiency.

The new Accord comes with the full-suite of Honda SENSING that comprises eight features: Adaptive Cruise Control; Low Speed Follow; Auto High-Beam; Forward Collision Warning; Collision Mitigation Braking System; Lane Keep Assist System; Road Departure Mitigation; and Lane Departure Warning.

The Accord is also equipped with Smart Parking Assist System with Brake Assist (Rear), Multi View Camera System (360° Camera) and Honda LaneWatch.

All variants will come with standard safety features such as six airbags, Vehicle Stability Assist, Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Brake Distribution, Emergency Stop Signal, Hill Start Assist, front and rear parking sensors together with multi-angle rearview camera.

"The 10th-generation Accord is equipped with an enhanced turbocharged engine, which places Honda as the only Japanese mass market manufacturer to introduce the powerful engine in D-segment," said Honda Malaysia managing director and chief executive officer Toichi Ishiyama.

The Accord was introduced to the world in 1976 as Honda’s second global model. It is known for its premium appeal and styling that has earned its fame globally. Positioned as an executive sedan in Malaysia, the Accord was first launched in 2001 and became a highly sought-after model with more than 84,100 units sold to-date.

The impending launch of the Accord comes at a time when the facelifted Civic has yet to come to market; it was supposed to arrive last December but was held back to sometime early this year over the delay in government approval for its pricing.

The delay in getting government approval on pricing has caused many car brands to put off launches or issue estimated prices.


Proton shows off first images of facelifted Persona

                SUBANG JAYA: Proton has revealed the first official photos of the facelifted Persona, which is due for launch this year along with the smaller Iriz model.

Both cars are the first models in the company’s current range to be given an extensive exterior refresh since Geely became a startegic partner in 2017.

The new exterior lines portray an image of intelligent connectivity coupled with elegant aesthetics with subtle updates that make the Persona stand out from its predecessor. It also carries Proton’s new family design elements that will be present on all future models to visually link them together.

Updating the identity

At the front, the Persona is the recipient of a new outer grille whose shape is inspired by the “Ethereal Bow” that debuted on the X70. The radiator grille meanwhile incorporates the “Infinite Weave” pattern sculpted into its design and sits on top of a redesigned front bumper.

Sleek new LED daytime running lamps (DRL) are housed over a honeycomb mesh backing while a new bumper lower garnish ties together the new design elements of the front bumper and frames the lower air intake more elegantly.

The most noticeable change at the rear are the Proton name spelled out on the trunk lid garnish and the removal of the brand logo. A new bumper lower garnish enhances the rear visual identity while a slimmer spoiler adds a sporting touch.

The Persona badge receives a new bolder and more flowing typeface in keeping with the overall exterior styling theme. A new 15-inch aluminium wheel design and a shark fin antenna provide the final exterior styling touches.

Sharing common features with X70

Touted as an intelligent family car, the Persona will be equipped with a colour touchscreen for access to connectivity options as well as voice command functions.

A development of the system used on the X70 and developed by Proton and ECARX, the Persona will be the first B-segment family sedan to offer such an advanced system to Malaysian car buyers shopping for a new car in its price range. More information on the infotainment system and the technical specifications of the Proton Persona will be released closer to the launch date.


Modular mojo: Toyota re-engineers its appeal

                Toyota Motor is looking to cast off a reputation for making reliable, but often dull, cars in a wide-ranging review of its designs, technologies, factories and supply deals - a full makeover aimed at staying on top in a cut-throat industry.

For decades, the Japanese automaker carved out global leadership by using common parts across many of its models. This was efficient, but made for uniform styling. A one-size-fits-all layout for the engine's surrounding parts, for example, gave its cars a boxy front end.

Under its ongoing Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA) initiative, the automaker will standardise vehicle engineering, such as the optimal "hip point" seating position for different vehicles, from sedans and sports cars to SUVs and trucks.

This cuts the number of air-bag variations needed and allows air-bag modules to be installed from just one side of the assembly line rather than both, making plants more efficient.

Redesigning cars from the ground up, Toyota plans to lower the hood, or bonnet, and center of gravity for better styling and handling. The new vehicle platforms, to feature more fuel efficient engines and rigid, lightweight frames, will be rolled out in stages starting with a medium-sized car this year, widely expected to be the fourth-generation Prius hybrid.

The savings from this overhaul - to be at least a fifth of Toyota's development costs - would be used to add or tailor other high-tech features, such as auto-braking, to suit different markets.

This approach is not new. Volkswagen, Toyota's rival for the title of the world's biggest automaker, has already rolled out its Modular Transverse Matrix (MQB) in more than a fifth of its vehicles.

In a progress report on Thursday, executive vice president Mitsuhisa Kato, the architect of the TNGA outline, said Toyota expects about half of its vehicles in 2020 to feature TNGA platforms.

TNGA reflects the changing nature of the global auto industry. As rivals close the gap on quality and fuel economy, styling and cutting-edge features have become the key battleground. More car for the same price.

"TNGA is not just a more cost-effective way of designing the automobile" to play catch-up with Volkswagen and others, said a senior Toyota executive, who didn't want to be named because he is not authorised to speak to reporters.

"It changes fundamentally the way we design and procure technologies and manufacture final finished products using those technologies."

Modular design

Since taking the helm in 2009, Akio Toyoda has sought to steer the company founded by his grandfather back to making more appealing cars instead of what he called reliable but unexciting products that fuelled Toyota's rise in the last century.

"Other automakers would design parts to accommodate exterior styling," said Satoshi Hino, a former Mazda Motor engineer and consultant specializing in modular architecture.

"Having fewer parts was important in the 20th century because it helped secure quality. But in the 21st century, you have to make unique, attractive cars while still trying to limit new parts. Modular design allows that, and it's what TNGA is after."

With modular design, pioneered by Volkswagen's Swedish truck unit Scania decades ago, standardised units, such as a cockpit module, can be used across several models and be built flexibly into subtle variations to suit different markets. That allows for a simpler, slimmer manufacturing process - and factory savings.

With TNGA, Toyota aims to halve the investment required to retool factories for new models compared with pre-financial crisis levels in 2008, while slashing investment on new factories by about 40 percent, the company said on Thursday.

Supplier shake-up

TNGA will also bring profound changes for Toyota's group suppliers.

Traditionally, Toyota's suppliers were forced to design parts to meet specifications that were optimal for individual car models - even where other automakers employed globally compatible standards.

TNGA will change that, with Toyota using global standards for certain parts - a move that would weed out weaker suppliers while landing more business for others.

Kato said this would allow Toyota's group suppliers to sell the parts to other automakers, boosting their competitiveness and benefiting Toyota.

To that end, Toyota said in November it would consolidate the development and production of diesel engines, manual transmissions and brakes at three group suppliers, helping top-tier firms such as Denso and Aisin Seiki focus on cutting-edge technologies and compete with global rivals such as Bosch and Continental.

For the first time, Toyota will also add an official from both Denso and Aisin Seiki to its executive line-up next month.

Ultimately, the test for TNGA will be whether the new generation of Toyota cars appeals to buyers.

"Competition will be even fiercer as demand in developed markets saturates and consumers become more selective in developing countries," said Satomi Hamada, senior analyst at consultancy IHS Automotive.

"Toyota needs to boost its product appeal, and quickly, to avoid losing market share."


Toyota teams up with cabbies and telco in 'connected taxis' project

                TOYOTA CITY: Toyota and KDDI Corporation, together with the Tokyo Hire-Taxi Association, have begun verification testing on data collection for making "connected taxis" a reality.

Such taxis, by communicating with data centres, are expected to make possible new services that will, among others, improve taxi-customer convenience and support taxi drivers. The verification testing, which will centre on the collection and analysis of data from taxis in the Tokyo metropolitan area, is being done to clarify technical requirements for taxi-related connected services and to enable practical application of large volumes of driving data.

In the verification testing, big data generated through real-time collection of both driving video and vehicle data captured by Toyota's data-transmission TransLog driving recorder installed in taxis and transmitted via KDDI's LTE network will be analyzed to determine the needs of communications networks for "connected taxis".

The testing is also aimed at improving the functions of a mobility services platform being established by Toyota, for which it will, among others, mark the start of technical studies for the generation of dynamic maps that cover the state of congestion of individual traffic lanes and the existence of roadway obstacles.


PLUS seeking to go cashless at all its rest areas

                GEORGE TOWN: PLUS Malaysia Bhd is targeting for all its rest and service areas (RSAs) in the country to go cashless by end-2020.

Chief commercial officer Christine Liew told StarBiz that PLUS was currently working with Visa, Boost e-wallet and other credit card companies to achieve the objective.

Liew was speaking at the Highway Concession Conference 2019, which was opened by Works Minister Baru Bian on July 15.

The two-day event was jointly organised by the Works Ministry and the Malaysian Highway Authority in cooperation with the Association of Highway Concessionaires Malaysia.

“Fifteen more RSAs should go cashless in 2020. To date, there are three RSA locations that have gone cashless.

“These are the two RSAs in Ayer Keroh in Melaka and one in Dengkil, Selangor,” she said.

PLUS has 29 RSAs, 50 lay-by stops, and two major restaurants in the country.

Liew said that digital technology allowed PLUS to deliver better services to customers.

“Our cameras at the RSAs and highways enable customers to see which RSA and which section of the highway is congested.

“The technology allows us to understand the food preference of our customers and find the right partners to deliver what they want.

“The choices will be made by the customers and not by companies,” she said.

Liew added that PLUS had 1.7 million customers using the highways on a daily basis.

“These 1.7 million people can tell you a lot of things,” Liew said.

On the PLUS Women Entrepreneurship Programme (WEP), Liew said PLUS would spend RM1mil to subsidise the initial capital outlay for the women undergoing business training.

“We are selecting 20 women from the B40 group to be trained under the WEP,” she added.

Liew said the firm has allocated RM5mil to roll out the WEP to create more women entrepreneurs at its highway rest areas within the next five years.

“The WEP targets women living within a 30km radius of the highway and B40 single mothers aged between 23 and 36.

“Through the WEP, PLUS aims to produce 20 new women entrepreneurs each within the next five years,” she said.


RHB offers financing for electrified and electric cars in 'green' push

                KUALA LUMPUR: RHB Banking Group has launched the RHB sustainability financing programme (SFP) with a target of RM1bil in new financing by 2025, including personal financing for retail customers’ solar panel purchases and auto financing rates for hybrid, plug-in hybrid and electric vehicles.

It said today the green financing product bundling programme aimed at reaching out to the needs of both Small Medium Enterprises (SME) and retail customers.

Group managing director and CEO of RHB Banking group, Datuk Khairussaleh Ramli said financial institutions play a vital role in delivering the country’s Intended Nationally Determined Contribution (INDC) which embodies efforts to reduce the country’s greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions intensity of GDP by 45% by 2030 relative to its emission intensity of GDP in 2005.

“The RHB Sustainability Financing Programme complements our existing green financing commitment and supports the nation’s aspirations in transitioning to a low-carbon and climate-resilient economy.

“Guided by our Sustainability Framework, the group continues to engage and nurture our customers towards adopting sustainable practices in their business and operations, and create awareness among consumers on the importance of choosing eco-friendly products or sustainable financing solutions for a healthier living environment.

“We target to grant a total of RM1bil in new financing via the RHB Sustainability Financing Programme by 2025,” he said.

RHB said the four pillars of the SFP comprise green energy, green buildings, green process and green products, which aims at promoting sustainable development and supporting the nation’s transition to a low-carbon economy through green financing solutions that integrate Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) criteria.

“The SFP adopts a more holistic approach to green financing, addressing the needs of both businesses and individuals through various financing solutions.

“The green energy financing solution promotes the adoption of renewable energy through the financing of solar panels for business and residential premises, while Green Building promotes the adoption of environmental considerations and eco-friendly features in the design, construction, operation and maintenance of buildings.

“Green process on the other hand, is aimed at reducing environmental impacts through the enhancement in processes, equipment and machinery towards supporting customers’ decarbonisation, while green products promotes the purchase of eco-friendly products such as hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and electric vehicles,” it said.

RHB said through the SFP bundling solutions, customers benefit from preferential rates and longer loan/financing tenure as well as relevant tax incentives provided under the Green Investment Tax Allowance (GITA) and Green Income Tax Exemption (GITE) on their chosen facilities.

SME customers may apply for financing facilities for renewable energy, construction, working capital, and capital expenditure (capes), with financing amount up to RM10mil and tenures of up to 15 years, with a high margin of financing and competitive rates.

Customers can enjoy auto financing rates for hybrid, plug-in hybrid and electric vehicles for as low as 1.99% (flat rate equivalent) across all financing tenures for up to nine years amounting to a maximum facility of RM500,000.

Customers are also entitled to an additional discount of up to 10% in insurance premium when they opt to buy motor insurance for their hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and electric vehicles with RHB Insurance.

In addition, RHB said retail customers can enjoy personal financing for solar panel purchases for up to RM100,000 with margin of financing of up to 100%, over a maximum tenure of 7 years at attractive rates.

Under this personal financing programme, customers are offered an all-risks insurance policy at an attractive premium rate whereby they are covered and protected from risks from damages such as fire, special perils, and accidental damage.

As at May 31, 2021, the group’s green financing commitment stood at RM3.25bil, of which about 20% is in renewable energy projects.

“As part of the wider effort to align with the RHB Sustainability Framework, the Group will not be pursuing opportunities or provide financing for any new thermal coal mine projects and coal fired power plant projects with effect from January 2022,” it said.


PM declares Nov 18, 19 public holidays, no toll for two days

                PUTRAJAYA: Nov 18 and 19 will be public holidays to allow Malaysians to travel home to vote for GE15, announces Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob.

He also said there would be no toll charges over the two days for travellers in private vehicles.

"I know many have been waiting for the announcement and I hereby announce a public holiday for Nov 18 and 19," he said at the Cuepacs headquarters ground-breaking ceremony here today.

Polling day for GE15 is on Nov 19.

Ismail Sabri explained that Nov 19 was declared a public holiday as some private sector companies were in operation on Saturday and some employees could have been unable to cast their votes.

"We want to make sure Malaysians can exercise their rights as clearly stipulated in the Federal Constitution.

"No one can prevent a citizen from exercising their right to vote," he said.

On the free toll, the Prime Minister said this would apply on highways provided by 30 concessionaires.

The free toll starts from 12.01am on Nov 18 until 11.59pm on Nov 19.

The state governments of Negri Sembilan, Penang and Selangor have also declared Nov 18 as a public holiday.


Motorcycle safety: Keep your distance — it could save your life

                BERLIN: In order to reduce the risk of fatal accidents, motorcyclists should keep significantly longer distances from others when riding in groups, according to a German insurance research expert.

After evaluating several hundred accident reports, Siegfried Brockmann, head of the German Insurers Accident Research (UDV), found that lack of a safe distance was a primary cause of accident for bike groups.

Although only 15 per cent of the 2,345 serious accidents that happened on German roads in 2018 occurred while driving in groups, Brockmann insists that bikers can do more to protect themselves.

"Major accident creators are not cars, but motorcyclists in the opposite lane or their own group. Driving manoeuvrers such as braking and changes in direction are perceived too late," said Brockmann.

According to the Federal Statistical Office, 619 motorcyclists died in road traffic incidents in 2018 and 20,480 were seriously injured.

More sobering is the research regarding the effectiveness of protective clothing, as motorcyclists do not seem to have benefited from the general progress in road safety.

For example, the usual protective clothing worn by motorcyclists does not prevent life-threatening injuries when colliding with an obstacle at speeds above just 25kph.

"We have to say clearly that no practicable protective clothing is able to prevent a fatal injury in the event of a collision at normal highway speed," said Brockmann.

Likewise, Brockmann warns that those sitting on top of the bike should look inward first before blaming other outside dangers as a cause for road traffic accidents.

With two-thirds of all motorcyclist deaths on German country roads arising from mistakes by the rider, the expert advocates compulsory safety training for all riders.


Renault gears up for driverless cars by buying magazines

                PARIS: Renault has bought a stake in a glossy magazine publishing group, its first foray into media, as it prepares to keep travellers occupied in the era of driverless cars.

Renault billed its move into media as the first among the world’s automobile manufacturers, who are carrying out advanced testing of self-driving cars in France and other countries.

“This project is totally in line with Renault’s strategy, which aims to offer new, high-quality connected services and to improve the customer experience,” Renault chairman Carlos Ghosn said in a statement on Wednesday.

Renault, which is conducting trials of semi-autonomous cars and plans to put totally self-driving vehicles on the road as soon as 2021, says entertainment will become a bigger chunk of business as drivers switch from speedometers and steering wheels to pastimes such as in-car entertainment and dining.

“When going from place to place – whether alone or with family or friends – we listen, look, and pay attention (to) the world around us,” Ghosn said.

“This is already true of travel in today’s cars, and will be even more true in the autonomous, and driverless car of tomorrow,” he added.

Renault did not disclose how much it is paying for the 40 percent stake in the group which produces five publications including Challenges, an equivalent of the Fortune business magazine, as well as Historia and Sciences & Avenir.

“This project will enable millions of drivers and their passengers to have completely free access to a choice of high-quality information and content,” Renault said.


China allows Evergrande NEV to start vehicle sales

                SHANGHAI: China's industry regulator has given China Evergrande New Energy Vehicle Group approval to start sales of its inaugural electric car, the Hengchi 5 sport utility vehicle, according to a document the regulator published today.

The Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) included two Hengchi models made by the unit of heavily indebted property developer China Evergrande Group in a catalogue of electric vehicles it said were recommended for "promotion and application".

Electric vehicle models added to this catalogue are deemed eligible for subsidies and can be put on sale. The MIIT statement showed the approval was granted on March 8.

Evergrande NEV would start selling the cars as soon as April, a person familiar with the matter said.

Without giving figures, the person said the sales target was not too high this year due to production constraints but would rise quickly next year.

China Evergrande Group declined to comment.

Reuters reported in December that Evergrande NEV had started mass production of its Hengchi 5 SUV ahead of schedule.

The firm, a major unit of China Evergrande Group, has been struggling to secure external investment.

China Evergrande Group said in November it had been negotiating with potential buyers regarding the disposal of some assets and talking to potential investors about funding.


Domino's Spark-ing speedy pizza deliveries

DETROIT: Domino’s will be using the 2015 Chevrolet Spark as the basis for the company’s new Domino’s DXP (Delivery Expert), a specially designed and built pizza delivery vehicle.

The Spark will help bring Domino’s heritage of pizza delivery innovation to the streets, due in part to the vehicle’s emphasis on driver experience, nimble maneuverability and fuel economy.

Once the Domino’s franchises across the country deploy the vehicles, Chevrolet dealers will receive special training to meet the needs of the unique fleet.

The DXP fleet will be equipped with the OnStar navigation system, helping drivers deliver their cargo as quickly and safely as possible to customers.

The vehicle, adapted from a crowd-sourced concept submitted as part of the Domino’s Ultimate Delivery Vehicle Challenge, was converted and delivered through a partnership between Domino’s and Roush Enterprises.

The DXP would feature a warming oven on board and enough storage capacity to hold 80 pizzas in the rear. One hundred DXPs would be deployed to 25 markets across United States.

Domino’s expects to see the first DXP’s to hit streets this month.


Toyota committed to hydrogen cars despite potential 'game changer' EV battery

                TOKYO: Toyota said its solid-state battery technology under development could be a “game changer” for electric vehicles, but that does not mean it is moving away from hydrogen-powered fuel-cell vehicles.

Having long touted fuel-cell vehicles and plug-in hybrids as the most sensible technologies to make cars greener, Japan’s top-selling automaker surprised industry watchers last year with plans to add full-sized electric vehicles (EVs) to its line-up.

In doing so, it joins a rush of global automakers scrambling to develop more EVs, in large part due to China’s push to promote the technology as a way to reduce pollution in the world’s biggest car market.

 The Fine-Comfort Ride Concept on display at the 2017 Tokyo Motor Show.

“We believe our solid-state battery technology can be a game changer with the potential to dramatically improve driving range,” Executive Vice President Didier Leroy said at the Tokyo Motor Show, which opened to media today.

Toyota plans to roll out a new electric vehicle in the early 2020s powered by solid-state batteries, which also promise to reduce the long charging times currently required.

Although China has heavily promoted electric cars, Japan has outlined plans to pioneer a hydrogen-fuelled society.

Leroy noted that Toyota was introducing two new fuel-cell vehicles at the motor show, including the six-seater “Fine-Comfort Ride” concept car, with a cruising range of about 1,000km.

A production version of the second model, the ”Sora” fuel-cell bus, will be launched next year, with more than 100 expected to be sold, mainly in Tokyo, ahead of the 2020 Olympic and Paralympic Games to be held in the city.

 Members of the media at the Toyota section of the 2017 Tokyo Motor Show.


GM set to launch behaviour-based US driver insurance in Q1, says exec

                DETROIT: General Motors Co aims to launch an algorithm-based auto insurance plan by the end of the first quarter in some US states that charges policyholders based on their driving performance, a company executive said in an interview.

The automaker's OnStar subsidiary has asked for regulatory approval of the new data-based insurance plan in Arizona, Illinois and Michigan together with its insurance partner American Family.

It hopes to receive the go-ahead by the end of March, Andrew Rose, president of OnStar Insurance and GM's vice president of Global Innovation, said during an interview Friday.

"We hope to follow that with a dozen, two dozen and hopefully more states," Rose said.

GM's policy currently does not factor in the use of driver-assistance systems, which can automate some driving tasks, and control braking and acceleration.

Sensor data from GM's "Super Cruise" system, including an in-cabin camera that monitors drivers' eye and head movements, could factor into rate setting in later versions of the insurance plan, Rose said, but declined to provide a timeline.

"I'm very excited about what we have in market and its ability for us to show benefit to the insurance equation," he said.

To use such granular data, GM and other automakers would have to overcome the scrutiny of state insurance commissions, which have yet to approve the use of data from automated systems for rate setting.

The leading US auto insurance research group, IIHS, on Thursday said there was no evidence that partial automation systems make driving safer.

GM, which launched its regular OnStar insurance offer a year ago, has said it targets US$6 billion in insurance revenue by 2030, with the average annual US auto premium costing around US$1,000.

Behaviour-based auto insurance, often referred to as telematics, has been available for several years, but largely requires consumers to download a mobile app or plug a data recorder into the car.

GM instead collects braking, acceleration and general usage data, such as seatbelt use, directly from the car, providing more reliable and consistent data, Rose said.

Customers who opt into data collection for the new plan receive an upfront discount on their policy if GM considers them safe drivers, Rose said.

Drivers would not face surcharges for bad driving, he said, but those conditions might change in the future.


Making biofuel from paper pulp

                PARIS: Veolia has announced the upcoming launch of a novel industrial solution for producing CO2-neutral biofuel from paper pulp.

The idea is to produce, on an industrial scale, a new sustainable fuel source to replace conventional fossil fuels. All this will take place in Finland, starting in 2024.

After sugar beet, rapeseed and palm oil, paper pulp could now be an alternative source of energy for transportation.

Veolia's idea is to help increase the European Union's biofuel reserves in order to reinforce its energy independence.

Potential production of up to 2 millions tons a year

This biorefinery project producing CO2-neutral biomethanol will be set up in Äänekoski, Finland, right next to a pulp production plant operated by Metsä Fibre, Europe's largest forestry cooperative association.

The refinery will use an innovative Veolia concept to produce commercial biomethanol on an industrial scale. The whole project is subsidised by the Finnish Ministry of Economy and Employment.

While mystery still surrounds this industrial concept, it has the advantage of being easily replicable, in about 80% of the world's pulp mills, according to Veolia.

In absolute terms, it has a production potential of nearly 2 million tons.

The Äänekoski plant has an estimated annual production capacity of 12,000 tons.

This production alone, as a replacement for fossil fuels, could reduce CO2 emissions into the air by about 30,000 tons each year in Europe.


BMW 530i M Sport goes dark and stealthy for RM10K extra, only 36 units offered

                KUALA LUMPUR: BMW Malaysia today introduced the new 530i M Sport Dark Shadow Edition.

Limited to only 36 units available only in Carbon Black, it's priced at RM392,800 (on the road, without insurance), RM10,000 more than the 530i M Sport.

The Dark Shadow Edition has been retrofitted with Shadow Line Part and M Performance Wheelset with TPMS for an all-black look and finishing.

Completing the look are black window finishers, 20-inch M Performance light alloy wheels in Double-spoke style 669 M Orbitgrey, and a high gloss black kidney grille.

The Dark Shadow Edition will come with either Black Dakota leather with blue stitching, or Cognac Dakota leather with contrast stitching.

Starting Jan 4, the Dark Shadow Edition will be available exclusively on BMW Shop Online (https://shop.bmw.com.my/) where customers can book the limited edition at RM1,000.

Viewing of the Dark Shadow Edition would take place at selected dealerships on the specified dates below:


All-new Ducati Multistrada V4 range introduced from RM135,900

                PETALING JAYA: Ducati Malaysia has launched the all-new generation Ducati Multistrada V4 range with prices starting from RM135,900 without road tax and insurance.

As with the previous generation, this one-of-a-kind motorcycle not only combines the pleasure of on-asphalt sporty riding, but also gives overall satisfaction and easy off-road handling together with unprecedented comfort on longer journeys and in everyday use.

The latest Multistrada V4 also boasts new technologies, among them the Radar system, which allows the use of Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) and Blind Spot Detection (BSD).

The advanced radar-aided system was in close collaboration with a top-level technology partners like Bosch.

While immediately recognisable as a Multistrada, the latest model marks a change of direction not only in terms of engine and technology but also in terms of aesthetics.

 (From left) Datuk Nik Hamdam Nik Hassan, Group Chief Executive Officer, Naza Automotive Group; Datuk Jasmy Ismail, Chairman, Naza Automotive Group and Dennis Michael, Head of Company, Ducati Malaysia.

The front and rear radar system is integrated into the lines of the bike to maintain smooth aerodynamics.

The front headlight, featuring a Daytime Running Light system inspired by the Panigale, makes the Multistrada V4 very sporty while bold proportions of the front, featuring muscular yet sexy lines which perfectly integrate the 22-litre tank.

The sleek rear section allows an optimal position even when standing during off-road adventures.

From the Perspex fairing to the “beak” and even the air vent slits, have been designed to provide the rider aerodynamic practicality and thermal comfort.

The Multistrada V4 is equipped with an aluminium monocoque frame, 19-inch front wheel, double-sided swing arm and is also available with spoked wheels.

It has a reduced wheelbase (1,567mm), suspension with long travel (170mm front-180mm rear), ground clearance of 220mm and a dry weight of 215kg.

All these allow the Multistrada V4 to be intuitive and effective between curves and at the same time proves easy to ride and versatile for both on and off-road challenges.

The motorcycle also comes with two-position seat adjustability at 840mm and 860mm (810mm low seat and 875mm high seat are also available as accessories).

The extremely light (66.7kg), ultra-compact all-new V4 Granturismo engine guarantees extremely smooth operation at low revs and a linear torque curve as well.

The 1,158cc V4 Granturismo engine delivers 170hp at 10,500rpm and a maximum torque of 125Nm at 8,750rpm.

The torque curve ensures maximum smoothness and delivery progression, even fully loaded, giving that appealing feeling of real “instant throttle response”.

Transmission features a short first gear for excellent travelling and manoeuvring at extremely low speeds, uphill starts even when fully loaded and off-road sections.

The sixth gear has been optimised to be ideal for lengthy motorway travels.

The engine oil only needs changing every 15,000km, while the valve play check, or adjustment if necessary, is set every 60,000km intervals, something no other production bike offers.

Other features include the inertial platform (IMU) that manages the operation of ABS Cornering, Ducati Wheelie Control (DWC), Ducati Traction Control (DTC) and Cornering Lights (DCL) in the “cornering” version and on the Multistrada V4 S.

On the Multistrada V4 S, the inertial platform also communicates with the semi-active Ducati Skyhook Suspension (DSS) system.

The system is not only capable of analysing riding conditions and adjusting the hydraulics of the fork and shock absorber instantly, but - for the first time - it also integrates the Autoleveling function.

This recognises the load on the bike and then autonomously adjusts the setting and is offered in addition to the options already available: rider only, rider with luggage, rider with passenger or rider with passenger and luggage.

The Multistrada V4 S also gets the Vehicle Hold Control (VHC), which makes restarts easier, especially on a gradient as standard.

The tyre pressure monitoring system is also available as an option for the Multistrada V4.

User interface and dashboard graphics has also been revised on the Multistrada V4 S that are displayed on an adjustable 6.5-inch TFT unit.

Furthermore, on the Multistrada V4 S gets a joystick on the left switchgear to ensure easy navigation through the new and intuitive menu.

Other new features include the Ducati Connect system, which allows, via Bluetooth and wi-fi, the “mirroring” function of the mobile phone app on the dashboard and control via the joystick.

Aside from a USB port, phone and music management are intuitive with the navigation system map displayed on the dashboard screen through Sygic navigation app.

Among the riding modes are Sport, Touring, Urban and Enduro.

Ducati Malaysia head Dennis Michael said:

“This is an important model for Ducati globally and for good reason as well.

“The Multistrada has always dominated its genre and it is well poised to continue doing so with this latest generation.”


Refreshed Mercedes A-Class and AMG variants launched, prices start from RM239K

                KUALA LUMPUR: Mercedes-Benz Malaysia today introduced the refreshed models of the A-Class family, with a more modern and dynamic look.

The facelifted A-Class now has the latest iteration of the MBUX Infotainment system.

The A 200 is equipped with Progressive Line exterior, while the A 250 4Matic is dressed in the AMG Line exterior package.

The A 200 is priced at RM238,888, while the A 250 price has yet to be confirmed but is estimated to be RM264,000.

The front view is dominated by the forward-sloping bonnet with its two power bulges and steep & "shark nose", the redesigned radiator grille with geometry on the A 200 and star pattern on the A 250, and the flat headlamps.

The sporty look is underlined by externally flush wheels with 17-inches 5 twin-spoke light-alloy wheels aerodynamically-optimised, painted in black with high-sheen finish on the A 200 and 18-inches AMG 5-twin-spoke light-alloy wheels, aerodynamically optimised and painted in tremolite grey with high- sheen finish on the A 250.

The two variants get new rear diffuser and standard LED rear lights.

Both variants come equipped with Adaptive Highbeam Assist enabling drivers to see the road surface or any hazards more clearly.

In the cabin, the highlight is the standard freestanding 1-.25-inch dual-screen display in both variants.

The model range covers all individualisation wishes: even in the base variant of the new A-Class, Mercedes-Benz is offering a high-quality comfort seat whose new, three-dimensionally embossed Artico upholstery further emphasises the sportiness of the vehicle.

 The A 250 and (below) the A 200.

The A 200’s upholstery is equipped with Artico leather.

The vehicle’s Progressive trim features the new, dark carbon-fibre look trim element which further enhances both the instrument panel
and the doors.

The AMG Line on the A 250 is designed for performance and features
light longitudinal-grain aluminium trim and red contrasting topstitching in the Artico/Microcut seats.

Mercedes-Benz said the latest generation of MBUX (NTG7) is intuitive to operate and capable of learning.

There are also newly designed display styles (Classic with all relevant driver information, Sporty with the dynamic rev counter, Discreet with reduced content), three modes (Navigation, Assistance, Service) and seven colour worlds.

The centre touchscreen offers all previous functions such as navigation, media, phone, vehicle, etc.

The telematics system has been revised for improved performance. Connectivity with smartphones is possible now via wireless Apple Carplay or Android Auto, and for further connectivity an additional USB-C port has been added and all USB ports in the vehicle offer fast-charging capabilities.

The new A-Class has also been given an update in terms of safety assistance.

Both variants come with LED headlamps and the Parking Package with reverse camera.

The vehicles are equipped with Active Parking Assist, Blind Spot Assist, Exit Warning Assist, and Active Brake Assist.

The A 250 4MATIC has an additional Sports Brake System, which delivers powerful deceleration, even after frequent heavy braking.

The Keyless-Go comfort package included has both Hands-Free Access and Keyless-Go functions.

Guard 360° vehicle protection offers all-round monitoring of the vehicles’ surroundings - for example with the break-in and anti-theft alarm system with tow-away protection.

The new A-Class engines have also been updated.

The A 200 petrol engine has a four-cylinder unit with 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.

The A 250 petrol engine has been electrified with an 8-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. As a mild hybrid, the A 250 is equipped with an additional 48-volt electrical system that supports agility when starting off with 10 kW more power.

Mercedes-AMG A 35 and Mercedes-AMG A 45 S

The new A-Class also makes its debut as a sporty Mercedes-AMG

With its revised look, the Mercedes-AMG A 35 4Matic is available as a saloon, while the Mercedes-AMG A 45 S 4Matic+ is available as a hatchback as before. Pricing for the AMG A 35 has not been confirmed and is estimated at RM354,000; the AMG A 45 S is confirmed at RM509,888.

The revised front headlamps, the AMG-specific radiator grille and the new, round badge with the AMG emblem instead of the Mercedes star with a laurel wreath, immediately stand out when looking at the new Mercedes-AMG A-Class.

In addition, a new front apron and the power domes familiar from the AMG A 45 S provide the AMG A 35 with a new AMG face.

The AMG look is underlined by the new wheel design, the rear spoiler lip, revised rear headlamps and the hallmark round exhaust pipes (twin-flow on the AMG A 45 S).

The AMG A 45 S is equipped with 19-inch AMG 5-twin-spoke light-alloy wheels aerodynamically optimized in matt black high-sheen rim flange and the AMG A 35 comes with 19-inch AMG 5-twin-spoke light-alloy wheels.

Both variants are fitted with red-painted brake callipers and Adaptive Highbeam Assist Plus.

Exclusive to the AMG A 45 S, the AMG Night Package comes with selected exterior features finished in high-gloss black resulting in strong contrasts.

In conjunction with the AMG Night Package the AMG Aerodynamics package has been developed in the wind tunnel to improve handling at high speeds and provides the basis for even greater driving enjoyment.

The AMG A 45 S is kitted up with a panoramic sliding sunroof.

As standard, the new Mercedes-AMG A-Class offers the AMG Performance steering wheel including AMG steering wheel buttons, with which the driver can control AMG-specific features such as the AMG Dynamic Select - without taking their hands off the steering wheel.

The AMG A 45 S’s new version of steering wheel with new touch-control panels, providing enhanced functionality and convenience is wrapped in nappa leather /Microcut and the AMG A 35’s is in nappa leather.

In addition, the A 45 S gets the Multicontour Seat package paired with AMG Performance Seat Package Advanced and the AMG A 35 comes with sport seats.

The Artico/Microcut AMG upholstery with Aluminium AMG Design trim elements in black / silver comes as standard in both the AMG cars.

Both include Manufaktur seat belts in red, AMG floor mats, ambient lighting in 64 colours, and AMG illuminated door sills with "AMG" lettering and with exchangeable cover.

The AMG A 35 is now equipped with a 48-volt auxiliary power supply and belt-driven starter-generator (RSG) and achieves an output of 225 kW/306 hp with a maximum torque of 400Nm.

As a mild hybrid, the RSG supports agility with 10 kW more power at start-up.

In addition, an AMG Speedshift DCT 8-speed transmission is now on board and the new front radiator facilitates temperature management at the limit.

The AMG A 45 S has a 4-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine enabling the car to accelerate from 0-100kph in just 3.9 seconds.

The AMG A-Class also benefits from the latest MBUX generation (NTG7): increased performance, more USB charging power and the new
hallmark AMG screen design.

Both vehicles come equipped with the USB Package Plus and Burmester surround sound system.

The AMG Real Performance Sound and AMG TRACK PACE is exclusive to the AMG A 45 S.

The AMG Real Performance Sound allows drivers to determine how the turbocharged engine sounds in the interior.

AMG Street Style Edition: Mercedes-AMG A 45 S

AMG Street Style Edition: Mercedes-AMG A 45 S 4MATIC+ will also be available for a limited time. It is RM30,000 extra over the regular AMG A 45 S' price tag of RM509,888.

With the base paint in Manufaktur mountain grey Magno and the edition-specific foiling with colour gradient in black/anthracite matt and colour accents in fluorescent orange, it emphasises the elements of the Aerodynamics Package.

The look is paired with newly designed 19-inch AMG cross-spoke forged wheels.

The AMG Street Style Edition is also equipped with AMG-specific radiator grille, darkened, Edition decals and Model badge on boot lid and wings in high-gloss black.

Seats are wrapped in Artico/Microcut AMG black with contrasting orange topstitching paired with AMG trim in dark / orange Street Style Edition aluminium.

The headrest has an orange label.

The AMG Street Style Edition comes with the AMG Ride Control suspension, AMG Aerodynamics Package, the AMG Night Package II and the stand-alone AMG fuel filler cap.


Automakers will need months to get factories up and running

                DETROIT: Automakers are anxious to get their assembly lines rolling again, especially since leaving factories idle is costing them billions of dollars by the week.

But the experience many of them have had in China illustrates just how long a slog it’s going to be before plants are producing at anywhere near pre-shutdown levels.

It took almost two months for most of China’s industry to return to some semblance of normalcy — and that was with the benefit of mobile apps the government installed on citizens’ cell phones to track their movements and potential exposure to Covid-19 infected people.

North American factories may have the benefit of Apple Inc. and Google trying to start a similar contract-tracing effort, but participation will be voluntary.

And the tensions brewing already between President Donald Trump and state governors indicate US government efforts won’t be nearly as centralised as China’s was, suggesting that already cash-strapped suppliers may also have to deal with a patchwork of state-by-state orders dictating when businesses can reopen.

"Discipline is the key to success,” Jim Tobin, the president of Asia operations at auto-parts maker Magna International Inc., said last week. "In China, there’s mandates that come out. Here, there are requests.”

Magna and other companies implemented dozens of protocols — including worker-temperature screenings and physical distance barriers — to open factories on single shifts, Tobin said during a webinar hosted by the Center for automotive Research in Ann Arbor, Michigan.

Many vehicle and parts plants in North America had been running multiple shifts to meet demand that’s held steady near all-time highs for years. Now, sales have cratered and are unlikely to recover quickly.

Tesla Inc. and Fiat Chrysler automobiles NV both are planning to begin reopening US plants on May 4 after idling them in mid-March.

General Motors Co. and Ford Motor Co. have refrained from scheduling restart dates for their facilities, while Toyota Motor Corp. and Honda Motor Co. have said theirs will be down through at least May 1.

While setting dates to reopen sends a signal to suppliers to start getting their parts inventories ready, doing so won’t be simple, with new layers of precautions and complications that didn’t exist before shelter-in-place orders came into effect nearly a month ago.

Here’s a rundown of what the industry is grappling with as it prepares for a restart:

Patchwork of orders

A typical vehicle has thousands of parts, and as automakers survey their supply chains, they now have to look not just at inventories, but at health orders across the country.

What the virus curve looks like in Illinois compared with Michigan or Ohio could determine whether or not a vehicle will have all the components needed to resume production.

"What the manufacturers need to do is be able to map out state by state, county by county, where manufacturers are with regards to local lockdown stay-at-home orders,” said Brian Collie, head of Boston Consulting Group’s U.S. automotive practice.

Even in states where people are allowed back to work, auto companies will likely use staggered shifts to increase social distancing and allow for more frequent deep cleaning. They’ll also likely deal with high rates of absenteeism, especially among older workers who fear getting infected, Collie said.

Supply chain

Suppliers typically need a week or two of advance work to support an automaker’s ability to start running their assembly lines again, said Ann Marie Uetz, a Detroit-based partner at the law firm Foley and Lardner LLP, which represents parts manufacturers. And there are at least two major impediments the supply chain will be dealing with: kids and cash.

With many school systems closed until the end of the year, parents within the workforce will have to find some form of child care before reporting back to plants. Many will be wary of bringing the virus home to their families.

The other problem is cash flow. With production already having been shut down for roughly a month, suppliers’ coffers are starting to run dry and many need help with the expenditures necessary to restart, Uetz said.

Some are getting assistance from the federal government, but automakers also are negotiating ways to help.

The dire financial straits many suppliers are in doesn’t leave much room for error in deciding on when to resume output, Magna’s Tobin said.

"Start-stop does not help liquidity, because we start buying material, employing people, then they say, ‘We’re going to push it out another two weeks," Tobin said, referring to supplier-carmaker relationships.

PPE needs

Much of the auto industry has pivoted to supporting the health-care industry by making ventilators, masks, face shields and medical gowns.

Some of those efforts to make personal protection equipment — or PPE — will come in handy for their own workforce, which pushed back against keeping factories open last month.

Social distancing and barriers will be go-to tools, but for workers who can’t avoid close interaction, they’ll need face shields, said Aaron McCarthy, Magna’s chief of human resources. Companies may be unable to provide them until front-line health care workers have enough.

Ford, which is experimenting with social-distancing wristbands for workers on the factory floor, also is tallying up the equipment needs for its workplaces.

"We’re identifying all the PPE requirements,” Jim Farley, the automaker’s chief operating officer, said in a podcast interview with automotive News last week.

"We’re not going to bring anyone back or even think about it before we have the sufficient supplies.”


PHS Automotive Malaysia is new local Audi distributor

                KUALA LUMPUR: PHS Automotive Malaysia (PHSAM) today announced its entry into Malaysia as the official distributor of the Audi brand.

Wholly owned by European automotive specialist Porsche Holding Salzburg (PHS), PHSAM will be representing the wholesale, marketing and aftersales for the Audi brand in the country.

Leading the PHSAM team are its two managing directors, Erik Winter and Kurt Leitner, who also hold the managing director positions at sister company Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM).

Together, Winter and Leitner played key roles in steering the success of the Volkswagen brand in Malaysia, including the expansion of its CKD product line-up.

 Winter (left) and Leitner.

Winter said the company was committed to the growth of the Audi brand in Malaysia.

“The premium automotive landscape is extremely competitive, and we have plenty to do and multiple challenges to overcome.

“Audi is one of the world’s leading premium brands and has a loyal local following that spans generations, so there is untapped potential in the Malaysian market.

“Our focus will be on strengthening the SUV, S line and quattro range, with electrification playing a major role in the Company’s future planned roadmap.

“With the strength of our team’s experience and backed by PHS’ global expertise, we are confident of
sustainable growth for the Audi brand,” he said.

The present product line-up includes a selection of sedans, sportbacks and SUVs such as the A5, A7, Q3, Q5 and Q8, and performance RS models.

Management processes are already in place, with other priorities being expanding aftersales services and strengthening the existing dealer network to achieve profitable growth.

Leitner said customer satisfaction is at the top priority of the the company's list.

“We recognise the importance of a strong working relationship with our dealer partners to grow and reach our targets and enhance the ownership experience for our customers,” he said.

Audi cars purchased from July 1 will also be offered with three years free maintenance, five years unlimited mileage warranty and 5 years roadside assistance.

The Audi brand currently serves its customers and owners via Audi Centres located in Juru and Glenmarie, and an authorised Service Centre in Ipoh.

The Audi Centre in Setia Alam will resume operations on Aug 1.

Porsche Holding Salzburg is part of Volkswagen Group and one of the largest and most successful automotive distributors in Europe.

The Salzburg-based company (Austria) was founded in 1947 and operates today in 29 markets in Europe, China, Japan, South America and Southeast Asia.


Driverless cars have a cosmic weakness: solar storms

The dawn of self-driving vehicles appears likely to coincide with a relatively quiet period for solar storms. — Reuters
BOSTON: Self-driving cars are still working to master the snow. It turns out that excessive sun can also pose a problem for the coming wave of robot drivers.

The threat comes from solar storms, those occasional eruptions of vast amounts of energy that can cause a massive spike in geomagnetic activity and radiation. While these storms aren’t immediately evident to human drivers, they can sever the data connection between a vehicle’s global-position system and the satellites that supply location information. That’s what could spell trouble for driverless cars now under development, at least if engineers aren’t careful.

Scott McIntosh, director of the high-altitude observatory at the National Center for Atmospheric Research in Boulder, Colorado, warns that self-driving systems should not be overly reliant on GPS when it comes to programming a 2.2-tonne vehicle on how to get itself from Point A to Point B. In the event of solar trouble, legions of computer-driven cars would pull over and wait for connectivity to return.

“There is a lot riding on this, from an actuarial point of view,” McIntosh said. “All it is going to take is a couple of accidents” and the industry will suffer.

Solar storms are rated on a five-step scale, the biggest of which can cripple international power grids, knock out satellites and crush radio communication on the sunlit side of the Earth. McIntosh envisions a day when forecasts also include a synopsis of “space weather” so drivers-both human and digital-can account for these interruptions.

Three years ago, the US parked a satellite in deep space, 1.6 million kilometres up, and ordered it to engage in an indefinite staring contest with the sun. When solar storms are coming, the US Space Weather Prediction Center acts as a warning buoy and gives a heads-up to utilities, airlines and other industries that rely heavily on airborne data. Generally, the Earth gets notice 30 to 60 minutes before the charged particles start wreaking havoc.

In September, the system paid off. Airplane flights bound for the poles were rerouted when the satellite recorded two coronal mass ejections, one of which was rated a three on the severity scale.

“That is the kind of game we are playing with civilisation,” McIntosh said.

The good news is that the sun is less mercurial these days. Its energy outbursts loosely follow an 11-year cycle, which last peaked in April 2014. The dawn of self-driving vehicles appears likely to coincide with a relatively quiet period.

There are other potential solar trouble spots for driverless cars. Earth is in the line of fire of a series of coronal holes. Magnetically charged particles from the sun generally arc back to whence they came. A coronal hole is what happens when they don’t do that and simply blast out into the universe-possibly at your robotic car. These events can have an impact similar to that of solar storms but usually aren't nearly as severe.

The engineers behind automated vehicles, meanwhile, are already taking steps to outsmart the sun. Self-driving systems mostly base navigation on a field of sensors, including laser pulses known as lidar, that read the immediate surroundings and speak directly to the vehicle’s computer nerve system.

More remote intelligence, such as the distance to the next interstate exit, is stored in high-definition maps that are regularly updated. That means that a Tesla relying on its Autopilot software or a Waymo vehicle shuttling passengers around Phoenix won’t need GPS to safely stay on the road.

At the very least, in the event of solar disruption, there is enough redundancy for the car to calmly pull itself over and stop, said Danny Shapiro, senior director of the automotive unit at Nvidia Corp., which makes chips and artificial intelligence systems for Uber Inc. and a wide range of automakers. Automated vehicles can operate quite well, even when online connectivity is hampered.

“With very detailed measurements like lane changes and bike lanes, you don’t have time to take all this data and send it up to the cloud and back,” Shapiro said. “You go to the cloud when you’re asking, "Hey, what’s the fastest route to Starbucks?’”


Spike Lee to introduce 2021 Cadillac Escalade with short film

                LOS ANGELES: Oscar-award-winning director Spike Lee has been hired to introduce the 2021 Cadillac Escalade with his short film “Anthem” on Feb 4 in Hollywood, General Motors Co’s luxury division, Cadillac, said on Thursday.

The Escalade, with global sales of about 900,000 including ESV and previous EXT and Hybrid models, is a highly profitable piece of GM’s new large truck and sport utility vehicle lineup that it has launched over the past two years.

Spike Lee is best known for his provocative films including “BlacKkKlansman”, “Do the Right Thing” and “Malcolm X”.

Cadillac said the new Escalade will have a curved organic light-emitting diode (OLED) dashboard screen with 38 inches of display.

Prices of the Escalade start at about US$75,000 (RM306,000) and could go up to US$90,000 (RM367,000).


BMW X4 xDrive30i M Sport (G02)  launched with RM380K estimated price

                KUALA LUMPUR: BMW Group Malaysia will start selling the new X4 from June 1 following its launch here last night.

Available in one grade only, the locally assembled X4 xDrive30i M Sport is tentatively priced at RM380,000 (on the road, without insurance).

This year is turning out to be an SUV-heavy season for BMW Malaysia following the debut of the latest generation of its bestselling 3 Series in March. The X4 is kicking off the X model rollout; yet to come are the new X5 and X2 M35i, which were previewed at the X4 launch.

Also set for arrival is its biggest SUV yet, the all-new X7, and the facelifted X1, which was only unveiled in Munich on Wednesday.

The X4's 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine produces 252hp with peak torque of 350Nm. It has a top speed of 240kph and can do the century sprint in 6.3 seconds. Combined fuel consumption and combined CO2 emission are rated at 7.8 litres per 100km and 178g/km respectively.

An 8-speed Steptronic Sport transmission enables faster gear changes and comes with shift paddles on the steering wheel along with a Launch Control function.

The second-gen X4 stands out with its coupe-like roofline, athletic curves and distinct M Sport characteristics. It features muscular, flared wheel housings and has a distinctive M Sport aerodynamic optics, 20” M Double-spoke wheels, and M Sport Brakes.

This is a larger X4 now, with a 2,864mm (+54mm) wheelbase for the 4,752mm-long (+81mm), 1,918mm-wide (+37mm) and 1,621mm-tall (-3mm) body.

It sports a bigger kidney grille with active shutters but unlike in the X5 and X7, is not a one-piece element. It features sportier proportions with athletic shoulders and slim, 3D wrap-around taillights with their three-dimensional styling.

BMW says that the X4's chassis has a higher percentage of light-weight aluminium combined with high-strength steel to reduce the vehicle’s overall weight by up to 50kg while aerodynamics have been optimised to a low 0.30Cd (drag coefficient) and a near perfect 50/50 weight distribution as well as a lower centre of gravity.

READ MORE:
New BMW X5 previewed
To Atlanta for a BMW X5 drive
New BMW X2 previewed

Inside, the 4+1 X4 is decked out in electroplated trim details for the controls and a larger free-standing 10.25-inch Navigation System Professional with Touch Sensitive Control Display, complete with BMW ConnectedDrive. It also has a full-colour Head-Up Display. With a longer wheelbase, rear passenger space has been increased by some 27mm to benefit leg and knee room.

Standard equipment for the vehicle includes adaptive LED headlights with high beam assistant, all-wheel drive, Adaptive Suspension, Variable Sport Steering, electronic differential lock, Hill-Start Assistant, Hill Descent Control along with Performance Control that distributes engine and braking control to the individual wheels when turning.

M Sport brakes and 20-inch alloy wheels with mixed tyres are also standard. Other standard highlights are panoramic glass roof and a 16-Speaker Harman Kardon Surround Sound System.

Luggage capacity has increased by 25 litres to 525 litres and can be expanded up to 1,430 litres by folding down the 40/20/40-split rear seat backrests.

Four colour choices are available: Alpine White, Carbon Black, Flamenco Red and Phytonic Blue.

Black Vernasca leather upholstery is available for all exterior colours but the new Tacora Red Vernasca leather upholstery is only available for Alpine White and Carbon Black.

The X4 is covered by a five-year unlimited mileage warranty with free scheduled service programme and BMW tyre warranty programme.

BMW Group Malaysia managing director Harald Hoelzl said that globally, the BMW Group has delivered over 200,000 units of the X4 since its introduction in 2014.

 From left: The X4, X5 and X2.


VW adopts new sales model for all-electric vehicles in Germany

                WOLFSBURG: All Volkswagen retail partners have signed the agreement for the new sales model for vehicles from the all-electric ID. family.

The sales launch of the ID.3 marks the start of the agency model for private customers and small commercial enterprises that has already proven its worth for major customers over many years.

The benefit for customers: They can switch seamlessly between online and offline channels and order direct from Volkswagen, while their preferred dealer remains their local contact.

The dealer assumes the role of agent under the new model and receives a commission from Volkswagen for this service.

The agency model lays the contractual foundation for integrating online business and showroom-based business.

From sales launch, customers can order vehicles from the ID. family direct from Volkswagen. At the same time, they select their preferred dealer for personalized customer care and local services.

Holger B. Santel, Head of Sales and Marketing Germany, commented: “All our partners are now 100% on board. Broad approval from our retail partners for the agency model is a strong signal for the future. From the customer’s perspective, Volkswagen and retail become one unit with the agency model. And this seamless, coordinated shopping experience at all touchpoints is exactly what our customers want.”

Volkswagen also takes responsibility for vehicle financing and bears the returns and residual value risk.

As Santel explains: “The dealer no longer has to finance vehicles in advance. We also bear inventory cost and the costs associated with showroom vehicles. We are offering dealers an extremely attractive leasing concept for demonstration vehicles.”