White is the world's favourite car colour - again

PHILADELPHIA: Unlike any other aspect of life, there are no grey areas when it comes to picking the colour of a new car; it really is a black or white decision.

The annual Axalta Global Automotive Colour Popularity Report - the most comprehensive of its kind in the industry - finds that for the fifth year running, white is the most popular car colour across Asia, Europe and America, accounting for over one third (35%) of all vehicles sold. Black is a distant second - 18% - followed by silver (13%) and grey (10%).

In fact, of all the individual countries studied for this year's report only drivers in India prefer silver (30%) over white (29%). Meanwhile, the Chinese are completely in awe of white, which accounting for 50% of all new cars in that market, as is Africa (46%) and South America (37%).

However, there are some regional tonal quirks. North America is where red is most popular, globally, specified on 11% of new cars compared with just 6% of Asian cars. And it's Europeans that love both blue (9%) and black (21%) the most.

"For the fifth consecutive year, white is the world's most popular colour. However, we did see some pockets of colour when we looked across regions," said Nancy Lockhart, Axalta Colour Marketing Manager. "For instance, red jumped eight percentage points over 2014 in South America, mid-shade blues are significant in Europe, and bright blues gained popularity in North America."

To see how popular these colour choices are, one need look no further than the LA Auto Show, which opened its doors to the public last weekend. With the exception of the new Lamborghini Huracan, which went with a radiant racing red, every new car on show is finished in white, blue, or a silver grey tone.

READ ALSO: CarSifu's list of blue car roll-outs

But while blue might be staging a comeback helped in part, according to Axalta by the growing popularity of compact and intermediate SUVs and crossovers, which seem to best suit the shade, green and yellow could be set to disappear from options lists altogether. Green accounts for just 1% of cars sold this year and yellow with 2% isn't faring much better. At 6%, even brown and beige are much more popular choices.

And while it might seem that white's popularity has exploded out of nowhere over recent years, Axalta's data, which stretches back 63 years, shows that the tone has been one of the five most popular paint finishes in all but three years since 1953.


June 27-July 3: Fuel prices on the rise again

                PETALING JAYA: At the stroke of midnight tonight, fuel prices will once again rise across the board and stay in effect from June 27 to July 3.

In a statement, the Finance Ministry said that the price of RON95 petrol will be increased by 10 sen from RM1.59 per litre to RM1.69 per litre.
The price of RON97 petrol will also see a 10 sen increase from RM1.89 to RM1.99 per litre while diesel goes up by nine sen from RM1.77 to RM1.86 per litre.
"This increase is due to changes in refined product prices, in line with current crude oil prices. The Government will continue to monitor the impact of global crude oil price changes and take appropriate measures to ensure the welfare and wellbeing of the people," said the ministry in a statement today (June 26).

The weekly fuel pricing mechanism was reintroduced on Jan 5, 2019, under the Automatic Pricing Mechanism (APM) where fuel prices are announced every Friday and remain in force for one week.


New penalty on the cards for toll evaders

                PETALING JAYA: It could be a crime to evade highway tolls in the future if a new law is introduced under the Penal Code as planned.

It will reportedly be used against dodgers using the multi-lane free flow (MLFF) lanes on highways and expressways from 2025.

Works Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof confirmed that the new law is being proposed as part of the measures for implementation of the MLFF within the next two years.

He said the new law and the necessary amendments, including to the Road Transport Act 1987, are being finalised.

"We are looking at whether or not toll evasion could be considered a criminal offence since there are no lane barriers under MLFF.

"The relevant laws need to be looked into, a new special law (may be introduced) or maybe the current one needs to be amended... we need an effective vehicle tracking and driver record system connected to the Road Transport Department (JPJ) database," he was quoted as saying in online portal FMT.

Fadillah said it had been an arduous task for the Malaysian Highway Authority to execute the plan for MLFF as the biggest hurdle was its legal aspects.

"It is a challenge and we need to get the highway concessionaires and other stakeholders to agree to the new law," he added.

Fadillah said the accuracy of vehicle owner registration stored in the RFID stickers and system integration with JPJ would play a vital role.

The MLFF is a barrier-free toll system without toll booths and dedicated lanes which uses a gantry structure equipped with automated number plate recognition at specific locations.

The proposed move for a new law against toll dodgers is due to concessionaires' concerns about the risk of high amounts of unpaid toll once the MLFF is implemented.

At present, toll evaders are subject to Section 8 of the Federal Roads (Private Management) Act 1984, which provides a fine of between RM2,000 and RM5,000 upon conviction.


McLaren on Apple stakes: No such talks

An Apple store in New York. - AFP
LONDON: McLaren damped down a report on Wednesday that Apple Inc had made an approach for the British Formula One team owner and supercar maker.

"We can confirm that McLaren is not in discussion with Apple in respect of any potential investment," a McLaren spokesman said.

"As you would expect, the nature of our brand means we regularly have confidential conversations with a wide range of parties, but we keep them confidential."

The Financial Times newspaper, citing three sources it said had been briefed on negotiations, had reported that Apple had made an approach for a strategic investment or a potential buyout.

It reported that the automotive group could be valued at between 1 billion pounds and 1.5 billion pounds.

Reports have suggested that Apple, which had no immediate response to the Financial Times story, is working on a self-driving car. The iPhone maker has hired dozens of automotive experts over the past year and is exploring making charging stations for electric cars. Apple also invested US$1 billion in Chinese ride-hailing service Didi Chuxing earlier this year.

The McLaren Formula One team is partnered by Honda, who provide the power units. The team is the second most successful after Ferrari in terms of race wins and titles but has not won a grand prix since 2012.


Honda Thailand launches City hatchback (UPDATE)

                BANGKOK: Honda in Thailand has launched the new City hatchback today.

The information available across the interweb reveals that the City hatchback - based on the fifth-generation City sedan, will have three model variants consisting of the entry-level S+, midrange SV and the flagship RS.

The prices for the City Hatchback starts with the S+ variant at 599,000 baht (RM81,000) while the SV gets tagged at 675,000 baht (RM91,000) and the RS at 749,000 baht (RM101,000) with colour options of Ignite Red Metallic, Platinum White Pearl, Meteoroid Gray Metallic, Sonic Gray Pearl and Crystal Black Pearl.

The City Sedan 1.0 Turbo is currently available in The Kingdom in five variants with prices ranging from 579,500 to 739,000 baht (RM78,000 to RM100,000). Colour options include Ignite Red, Platinum White Pearl, Crystal Black Pearl, Lunar Silver Metalic and Modern Steel Metalic.

Power for all three variants comes from a 1.0-litre (998cc) three-cylinder turbocharged multi-point injection engine that sips from a 40-litre fuel tank to produce 122hp at 5,500rpm and 173Nm of torque from 2,000 to 4,500rpm - all managed by a continuously variable transmission for the front axle.

In terms of size, the City Hatchback has 2,589mm wheelbase while measuring in at 4,345mm-long (RS: 4,349mm-long ), 1,748mm-wide and 1,488mm-tall.

With front independent MacPherson struts and a rear torsion beam suspension setup to hold up its 1,161kg kerb weight as it cruises along at an "altitude" of 135mm off the ground with 15-inch alloys wrapped by 185/60 series tyres - partially hiding the front ventilated discs with rear drums.

At the front, the chromed grille is flanked by projector headlights with LED daytime runners while its side profile shows off its door handles and powered side mirrors in matching body colour.

Inside, the blacked-out cabin gets matching fabric seats with piano black accents while keyless entry with push-start button, speed-sensing door locks, start-stop functionality, multi-information display (MID), ECO indicator, ECON button and a driver-side vanity mirror with illumination ups the comfort and convenience levels.

Entertainment comes from a four-speaker sound system with USB port and Bluetooth connectivity that can be controlled via the multi-function steering wheel.

For safety, there are four airbags as standard, anti-lock braking system with electronic brakeforce distribution, vehicle stability assist, hill-start assist, emergency stop signal and seatbelt pretension system.

Moving on to the mid-range SV variant (1,170kg), the door handles get chromed with the side mirrors now having integrated signals and power-folding functionality.

Inside, there's now leather with synthetic leather combination upholstery, chromed interior door handles, automatic climate controls, white fluorescent instrument cluster gauge and an armrest.

Entertainment now comes from an 8.0-inch touchscreen with Bluetooth connectivity, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, two USB ports and a reverse camera with three views.

Finally, the flagship RS (1,179kg), which is longer by 3mm at 4,349mm, rolls on larger 16-inch allows with 185/55 series tyres and sporting black for the grille (gloss) and side mirrors.

Inside, there are now two more airbags (six in total), paddle shifters, cruise control, red-illuminated MID, sportier seats (fabric, suede, leather and synthetic leather combination with red piping) and finally eight-speakers for the sound system.


New Suzuki Ignis compact crossover and SX4 S-Cross to debut in Paris

                MILTON KEYNES: The new Ignis, Suzuki’s new compact crossover offering stylishness and utility, will make its European premiere next month at the 2016 Paris Mondial de l’Automobile.

Suzuki’s styling design heritage nurtured in a long history of compact car manufacturing has been passed down and some attributes are brought to life in the Ignis.

The minimal exterior design looks fresh but undoubtedly Suzuki which makes the model purely iconic. The new Ignis will go on sale in the UK and Europe in January 2017.

Latest environmental technology from Suzuki includes a rigid, lightweight new-generation platform as well as the option of a compact and lightweight SHVS (Smart Hybrid Vehicle by Suzuki) which allows extra assistance through the electric motor and provides efficient battery recharge, these elements help achieve fuel efficiency without sacrificing good performance.

Also on display as a main exhibit is the SX4 S-Cross face-lift, with revamped front exterior design and further refined interior quality for a stronger yet more sophisticated character of an SUV.

The facelifted model now features 1.0-litre and 1.4-litre Boosterjet direct-injection turbo engines that replace the existing 1.6 petrol unit.


Ferrari show off new SF1000 car with a touch of theatre

                BOLOGNA: Ferrari showed off their 2020 Formula One car with a theatrical show of pride and passion on Tuesday, assuring success-starved fans that it was also very different under the skin to last year’s model.

The SF1000, marking the Italian team’s 1,000th race that comes up this year, is the car Ferrari hope can end six years of Mercedes domination and dash Lewis Hamilton’s bid to equal Michael Schumacher’s record seven titles.

If the red machine looked superficially similar under the stage lights to the 2019 version, team principal Mattia Binotto said appearances were deceptive.

“We have been as extreme in all the concepts as we could,” he told a global audience watching as the car made its appearance on stage at Reggio Emilia’s opulent Romolo Valli opera house.

“The entire car, power unit, has been packaged to have a very narrow and slim body shape.

“It may look very similar to last year but, believe me, it’s completely different and a lot of the concepts are very extreme,” added the Swiss-born Italian, who is starting his second year at the helm.

 Ferrari's drivers Charles Leclerc and Sebastian Vettel posing with Ferrari team principal Mattia Binotto next to the new Ferrari Formula One race car.

Four-times world champion Sebastian Vettel, on stage with 22-year-old Monegasque team mate Charles Leclerc, gave it his immediate seal of approval.

“I like it a lot,” said the German, who also showed off his Italian in addressing the audience. “And it’s a little bit more red than last year.”

Ferrari won three races last year, two for Leclerc and the other for Vettel, and finished runners-up to Mercedes who won both titles for an unprecedented sixth successive season.

The 2019 season proved a particularly cold shower for the only team to have competed in every championship since the start in 1950, with the car raising hopes by being quickest in pre-season testing only to then fail to deliver as expected.

Both the team and drivers made errors, while a lack of reliability also led to likely wins slipping through their fingers.

Presenting the new car away from Maranello for the first time, in a nearby city famed as the birthplace of the Italian flag and with fans thronging the square outside, Ferrari’s presentation put emotion center stage.

A violin soloist played, cymbals clashed and a youth orchestra performed stirring Formula One-themed music as the team put on a show before the serious work of testing starts in Barcelona on Feb. 19.

Some 350 men and women from the racing department took their seats in the auditorium and were recognized as Ferrari’s ‘unsung heroes’ by president Louis Camilleri.

“We all share a passion for the prancing horse,” he said. “We are all very conscious of the huge responsibilities that lie on our shoulders.”

Ferrari last won a drivers’ title with Kimi Raikkonen in 2007, and a constructors’ championship in 2008.

The season starts in Australia on March 15.


Nissan NP300 Navara launched in Vietnam

                HANOI: Nissan Vietnam Co Ltd, Nissan's joint venture with Tan Chong Motor Group, has launched the all-new NP300 Navara pick-up in Vietnam.

Vietnam is one of the first countries to receive the left-hand drive NP300 Navara from Thailand, which ultimately will be exported to countries worldwide.

Nissan expects this new generation of Navara will play an important role in Vietnam where total industry volume has grown more than 88 percent over the past three years and is expected to grow another 40 percent by 2017.

“Nissan continues to expand our network and to improve quality for better customer satisfaction in Vietnam together with Tan Chong Motor Group,” said Toru Hasegawa, corporate vice president of Nissan Motor Co Ltd. and president of Nissan Motor Asia Pacific (NMAP).

The NP300 Navara delivers a smooth and very comfortable drive, partly thanks to NASA-inspired Zero Gravity Seats that reduce fatigue by distributing body pressure through the seating.

The fuel-efficient NP300 Navara includes several first-in-class premium features.

Among them are advanced LED Daytime Running Headlamps, rear spoiler for improved aerodynamics, smart vehicle access with Intelligent Key, Push Button Ignition, and dual-zone air-conditioning system with pollen filter and rear ventilation for backseat passengers.


US will see 'meaningful' autonomous vehicle policy in 2020s, says transportation sec

                AUSTIN: US Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg on Wednesday said federal policy on autonomous vehicles will undergo "meaningful" developments in the coming years, saying policy frameworks had not fully caught up with technological developments.

Speaking at the South by Southwest music, technology and film festival (SXSW), Buttigieg said regulation had to set boundaries for self-driving without stifling innovation in an industry that "is still largely in its infancy."

"It's okay to allow that experimentation to flourish up until and unless we start seeing a real escalation of some of the safety concerns," Buttigieg said, adding that limitations on the amount of vehicles each company tests could function as "speed breaks."

"I think we're going to see very meaningful developments here in the 2020s," Buttigieg said.

Congressional efforts to regulate self-driving cars have been stalled for several years, but US regulators last week eliminated the need for manufacturers to equip fully autonomous vehicles with driving controls like steering wheels and brake pedals. read more

Tesla Inc has released pilot software for what it calls its "Full Self-Driving" system to tens of thousands of Tesla owners for use on public roads across the United States. read more

The system has faced scrutiny from US regulators over deadly crashes and traffic law violations. read more

Other automakers are more cautious amid the nebulous regulatory terrain.

Mercedes-Benz AG chief technology officer Markus Schaefer said on Tuesday the carmaker "absolutely" wants a regulatory framework to protect the company before it releases its hands-free, semi-autonomous driving system in the United States to compete with Tesla's Autopilot.

Buttigieg on Wednesday also said he wanted to improve the US public transit system and encourage Americans to buy electric vehicles through government tax incentives to reduce emissions.

National US transit use remains some 40% below pre-pandemic levels, according to data from mobility app Transit.

White House efforts to increase current US$7,500 EV tax credits to up to US$12,500 for union-made US vehicles remain stalled in Congress.


VW, Nissan chase African market where car loans are rare

Traffic in downtown Johannesburg. South Africa is the continent’s biggest market for new cars.
ACCRA: Volkswagen AG and Nissan Motor Co. are among automakers planning new plants in Ghana to target West Africa’s 382 million people. Their challenge: Finding banks that will offer loans to make new cars affordable.

In a country where about 70% of imports are second-hand, new car ownership is rare, said Believe Alorbu, who sells older models shipped from the US at half the price of a new one.

"People will sometimes leave the plastic wrapping on their seats” when they buy new cars, she said at her dealership in the capital, Accra. "Even if the government increases tariffs on used cars, people will still not be able to afford new ones if they don’t get access to financing.”

Less than 5% of new car sales are financed by banks, according to the Ghana automobile Dealers Association.

In some cases, lenders demand employers agree to redirect part of the purchaser’s salary towards the debt, or that the owner take out insurance to cover a default. Interest rates of 22%-30% also make loans "largely” unaffordable, said Koketso Tsoai, an auto-industry analyst at Fitch Solutions.

Once their facilities are running, VW, Toyota Motor Corp., Nissan, and possibly Renault SA will need to contend with second-hand cars like those sold by Alorbu.

Ghana’s government is trying to make it more attractive with planned import duties on second-hand cars of 35%, from 5%-20%, and fiscal incentives that improve as the companies move from assembly to local production, with tax holidays of as long as 10 years. It has also pledged to promote regional exports.

"We don’t look at it only for today,” Nissan Africa chairman Mike Whitfield said by phone from Cairo. "We continue to see Africa as the last frontier left in the automotive market, West Africa being a key part of it.”

About 10% of West Africa’s population are able to spend more than US$11 a day, according to data compiled by World Data Lab. It is this group that the industry is targeting on a continent that adds some 10 million new consumers annually.

By 2030, Africa’s middle- and upper-income class is expected to exceed 300 million of the world’s 4-billion consumer market, the data shows.

‘Huge opportunity’

Standard Bank Group Ltd., Africa’s largest lender, is also preparing for future growth by replicating its South African car-financing business in other parts of the continent, including Ghana.

About three quarters of auto loans still go to companies, Patrick Koduah, head of vehicle and asset finance at the company’s Stanbic Ghana unit, said in an interview. "There’s a huge opportunity to grow personal demand.”

About 30,000 passenger vehicles were imported into Ghana in 2018, according to estimates from Fitch Solutions. Ghana had 7,073 new vehicle registrations in 2018, of which 4,268 were passenger cars, according to the International Organization of Motor Vehicle Manufacturers.

While the government has said its auto-incentives program would include the creation of an asset-based vehicle financing component, a trade ministry spokesman couldn’t provide details on how it would work.

Pan-African lender Ecobank Transnational Inc. said in an email that the average car loan in Ghana amounts to $30,000. Banks typically demand a high down payment and limit loans to no longer than five years if they do grant credit, while dealers sometimes allow buyers to spread repayments over six months.

More than 90% of new vehicle sales in South Africa, the continent’s biggest market, are probably financed, Thomas Schaefer, the head of Volkswagen’s local unit, estimated. The country had a penetration rate of 132 passenger cars per 1,000 people in 2019, compared with 22 per 1,000 people in Ghana, according to Fitch Solutions.

"If I would take out the financing options in South Africa, our market would disappear,” Schaefer said.

The Wolfsburg-based carmaker plans to start a ride-hailing service in Accra, modelled after a similar one in the Rwandan capital, Kigali, to ensure its output is absorbed.

Regional gateway

"The assumption is that in Africa, out of the more than 1 billion people, there are only about 100 million people who can afford a new car, but you may have a couple 100 million people who need to go from A to B and a bit of money in their pocket,” said Schaefer.

"You need to tap into this market.”

Nissan sees its assembly plant starting by the end of the year, depending on when Ghana’s auto-policy is signed into law. Volkswagen plans to start by April. Toyota, which described Ghana as "an extremely important market in West Africa,” declined to share details about its strategy.

Ghana won’t be the first country to position itself as a gateway to West Africa. Nigeria announced a very similar policy in 2013. However, after a change in government and years in the legislative system, President Muhammadu Buhari rejected the bill in July last year. automakers have also signed agreements with Ivory Coast’s government.

"Ivory Coast has already taken some steps in the right direction, which aim to limit the import of used vehicles,” said Leonce Yace, managing director of Ivorian lender NSIA Banque. The company, one of the key players in vehicle finance in the country, saw a 41% year-on-year increase in auto loans in 2019.

"It is not about who should be the hub, it’s about who offers the best deal,” said Chris Ndala, managing director of CICA Motors Liberia, a subsidiary of the French group CFAO SA.

The car companies are beginning small in Ghana, with 5,000 units a year or less, and are expected to partner with local firms.

"We’ll all go as the business and the market goes,” Nissan’s Whitfield said. "The critical thing is that it’s starting.”

Alorbu, the second-hand dealer, doesn’t see the used-car business getting displaced anytime soon.
"They make it sound like used-car dealers are the enemy, but we are helping the consumer,” she said.

"If the government is not ready or willing to provide financing, selling new cars will be a problem.”


CMC Italjet 125 scooter launched, priced at RM6,996

                PETALING JAYA: Chear Global Sdn Bhd, the Malaysian distributor of CMC motorcycles, introduced the latest model, the CMC Italjet 125 scooter priced at RM6,996.

The Italjet 125 is catered to the younger generation who are passionate about riding and wants to have some fun at the same time.

"The designer of the CMC Italjet 125,  Alessandro Tartarini, worked on numerous styling options before coming up with a design that is futuristic, innovative and sporty. A design that becomes art in motion, " said Chear Global Sdn Bhd chief operating officer, Leong King Choon.

Also present at the launch which was held at Sunway Pyramid were Chear Motor Sdn Bhd Managing Director Datuk Chear Kin Keong; Mofaz Senior Vice President Datuk Nik Izani Nik Ibrahim; and Chear Global Sdn Bhd Executive Director Peter Gan.

 (From left) Chear Motor Sdn Bhd Managing Director Datuk Chear Kin Keong, Mofaz Senior Vice President Datuk Nik Izani Nik Ibrahim, Chear Global Sdn Bhd COO Leong King Choon and Chear Global Sdn Bhd Executive Director Peter Gan at the launch .

As the name suggests, the Italjet 125 features a 125cc, four stroke, single cylinder engine mated to an automatic transmission which outputs 8.85hp at 8,000rpm and 8.6Nm of torque at 6,000rpm.

Other features include a generous under-seat storage space which is big enough to fit a full face helmet. It comes with front and rear disc brakes as well as Integrated LED front and taillights, an electric starter unit, a large and an amber-illuminated multi-info digital display screen.

Mofaz Motosikal Sdn Bhd, Chear Global's business partner, is assembling the bike locally and the scooter is due at showrooms in the coming weeks.

The CMC Italjet 125 is priced at RM6,996 (inclusive of GST) and comes in two colour choices: Chili Red and Sporty White.


Fiat Chrysler Portal: An MPV created by millennials for millennials

                LAS VEGAS: Set to make its real-world debut at CES today, the FCA Portal is a cutting-edge conceptual minivan/MPV that can drive itself and that has been designed with transporting millennials in mind.

It's only fitting that Chrysler, the company that essentially invented the US concept of the minivan, should use one as the basis for its autonomous car, especially as it's aimed at drivers who are currently being chauffeured to school or sports practice in something very similar.

This car, however, can chauffeur itself, but only in certain circumstances such as on the highway or in heavily congested queues. That's because it only uses current generation autonomous driving tech and means it's potentially one or two feasibility studies away from being a production reality.

Likewise, it's got an electric powertrain that's good for a very realistic 402km range between charges.

Going with batteries means that there's no need to make room for an engine or gearbox and drive shafts, so although the Portal is actually slightly smaller than the latest Chrysler Pacifica Minivan, there's more interior space on offer.

The cabin (like everything else about the car), was, according to FCA, created by Millennials for Millennials, so there are mobile device docking stations everywhere.

Ten gadgets can be simultaneously connected and charged, which could cause confusion as the car's actual controls and interface look very much like tablets and portable screens, too.

Panasonic was heavily involved in the concept, providing everything from the aforementioned docking stations to facial recognition and voice commands so that every person stepping inside the car through its dual sliding doors gets a personalized experience.

And as people's needs change with time, so will the Portal. Each of the six seats can move backwards and forwards to the vehicle's internal extremities and can fold completely flat like a day bed or living space.

The software powering the car's features - and enabling connections between other vehicles and infrastructure - also supports ride hailing and ride sharing as standard and, as this is a car for digital natives, social media support and the ability to capture and share spontaneous multimedia mementos on the move are also baked in.


Tesla tech wins more backers as its plug becomes US standard

                NEW YORK: Tesla Inc.’s charging technology won more backers as a handful of players in the electric-vehicle power industry said they would offer compatible equipment, further solidifying the automaker’s system as the US standard.

ChargePoint Holdings Inc., Blink Charging Co., EVgo Inc. and Wallbox NV each said Monday they will have chargers capable of working with Tesla’s North American Charging Standard, which is quickly winning in competition with the so-called Combined Charging System.

Australia’s Tritium DCFC Ltd. also said it would offer an NACS connector option with its chargers.

The rapid succession of announcements comes just days after car giants General Motors Co. and Ford Motor Co. agreed to join with Elon Musk’s company by adopting standardized NACS ports in future models.

These latest moves by charging companies underscore how quickly the industry is shifting to a single standard, at least in North America.

That could give consumers pondering an electric vehicle greater confidence the technology is here to stay and that they’ll be able to find places to top up their batteries. It’s also seen as a rearguard action by the charging industry to keep Tesla from capturing a bigger chunk of the fast-growing business.

"Ultimately, the charging companies will provide an option to stay relevant and not lose market share,” said BloombergNEF analyst Ryan Fisher. "The other car manufacturers may not want to embolden Tesla further, so they are in board rooms right now deciding what to do.”

Tesla could add US$3 billion in revenue in 2030 and more than US$5.4 billion in 2032 from non-Tesla vehicle owners, according to a recent report from Piper Sandler & Co.

ChargePoint, which makes charging equipment, said its NACS charging adapter was in development before Ford and GM adopted it for their future EVs, but the company said Monday it will soon offer a compatible charger on its current product line.

Wallbox also said it will begin offering NACS compatible charging equipment for its Supernova fast charger.

Blink, which operates charging stations, said it will start making its fast charger available in global markets and they will be equipped for both CCS and NACS use. EVgo promised to add NACS connectors to its fast-charging stations across the country.


Perodua slams 'inaccurate information' on Bezza service costs

                PETALING JAYA: Perodua rebutted recent news reports that the Bezza service costs was 32% higher than those of the Proton Persona.

"We wish to clarify that the information used by certain online portals on our service details is inaccurate and misleading," said Perodua Sales Sdn Bhd managing director Datuk Dr Zahari Husin in a statement.

The March 11 media reports illustrated the difference between the five-year service costs of the Persona and two other car models, purportedly the Bezza and Honda City.

The inaccuracy in cost difference is due to a comparison made not on an apple-to-apple basis, said Zahari.

The Persona’s service costs were calculated as scheduled in its service booklet or owner’s manual whilst for the Bezza, the calculation was based on its Preventive Maintenance costs (which are optional) instead of scheduled costs as recommended in the service booklet.

Based on the table above, the Bezza’s total maintenance cost difference at the 5-year mark is only RM44 or 1.4 per cent and not 32 per cent as reported. The difference is attributed to the premium cost of 0W-20 grade for lubricant used in the Bezza instead of the 10W-30 for the Persona.

In addition, the Bezza uses iridium spark plugs for maximum fuel efficiency and a smoother engine performance, said Perodua.

In fact, Bezza owners pay RM239.55 less than Persona owners on maintenance at the end of the third year, it added.

It also said the Bezza is among the most fuel-efficient vehicles in the country.

The Bezza 1.0L manual can potentially travel 22.8 km/l, which is the best in the Bezza family. The 1.0L auto does 21.3 km/l. It’s 21.7 km/l for the 1.3 manual and 21 km/l for the 1.3 auto. For the 1.3 Bezza Advance auto with Eco Idle, fuel economy is 22 km/l in the ECE mode.

These reflect huge savings in overall ownership costs for the Bezza owner, while the competitor’s fuel efficiency figures have not been made public, said Perodua.

For those who are willing to spend a bit more than what is recommended in our owner’s service manual, Perodua also offers an optional preventive package known as Pro-Care.

The Pro-Care package includes tyre alignment and balancing; air conditioning maintenance; and replacement of components to ensure smooth driving and peace of mind.


Rare Veyron edition for sale

                LONDON: The world’s fastest roadster, the Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport Vitesse World Record Edition, is up for sale at the flagship H.R. Owen showroom in London.

This Grand Sport Vitesse is offered for sale at 1.795 million pound sterling (RM10.95mil).

H.R. Owen is Britain’s leading luxury motor dealer group.

The eye-catching black and orange car is at the dealership in Berkeley Square, which is the only official UK dealer for Bugatti sales and servicing.

The open-top example up for sale at H.R. Owen is finished in Black Carbon Fibre, with Orange painted Arancia Carbon Fibre details.

The black and orange theme continues inside, with black and orange leather combining with Arancia Mira Alcantara.

The colour scheme was conceived for the car’s record-breaking speed attempt, which took place in April 2013 when it reached a speed of 408.84km/h.

This run made the 1200PS (1184bhp) car officially the world’s fastest open top car.

This car is the ultimate incarnation of the Veyron. Of the 450 Veyrons made, there were only 150 roadsters produced and of those, only eight were world record editions, making this a truly rare car.

This particular version is a UK car, and was originally registered in October 2013.

It has only had the one owner since then, and has covered just 1,919km in its lifetime.

With the Veyron only ever being made in limited numbers – only 450 were made over nine years of production – values of this car are set to be strong in the future.

The Veyron remains the most exclusive Bugatti ever made, until the release of the Chiron later this year.

When the Chiron goes on sale, it will only be available in the UK at H.R. Owen’s London showroom.

Anita Krizsan, Bugatti Brand Director for H.R. Owen, says: “It was a pleasure to sell this car to its first owner the first time around, and we are delighted that our unique relationship with our clients means that we have the opportunity to help the car find its second owner.”

Krizsan is a leading authority on all things to do with the brand, and is one of the most successful Bugatti sales people in the world.

She sold a record 11 Bugatti Veyrons in 2012.


Ferrari GTC4Lusso makes Asian debut - VIDEO

TOKYO: Ferrari’s latest GT car, the GTC4Lusso, saw its latest unveiling here on Tuesday. This is its first international appearance following the premiere at the Geneva Motor Show in March.

Taking over from the FF (Ferrari Four), the GTC4Lusso is seen as Maranello’s latest interpretation of the four-seater concept that is designed for those who want to experience the pleasure of driving a Ferrari anywhere and anytime.

Its new name may be a mouthful but it basically stands for Grand Tourismo Coupé 4 (as in four-seater and four-wheel drive) Lusso (which is Italian for luxury) and draws its heritage from illustrious predecessors such as the 330GTC and 250 GT Berlinetta Lusso, both of which were displayed at the GTC4Lusso’s launch venue.

The choice of the country for the launch also tied in with the fact that the 330GTC was launched 50 years ago and that Japan was celebrating 50 years of Ferrari; the first officially registered Ferrari in that country was the 275 GT Berlinetta in 1966.

The other reason for picking Japan for the Asia-Pacific launch – the region includes North-East Asia (Japan and South Korea), South-East Asia (Asean), Australasia (Australia and New Zealand) and recently included the Middle East and India – was that 55 per cent of Ferrari sales in the region was in Japan.

Going further, it was also noted that more than 50% of Ferrari sales in the region (discounting the Middle East and India) was for the FF; Dieter Knechtel, CEO Ferrari Far and Middle East Hub, believes the GTC4Lusso is expected to improve on this trend.

He says that the Ferrrai owners in this region prefers this two-door four-seater GT Coupé as it is easier to drive in the cities and that it is usually 55-per cent full passenger occupancy during those urban drives; the average age of the owner preferring this Ferrari was given as 45 years.

The GTC4Lusso is more than just a replacement for the FF as it is endowed with fresh features to complement its status as a completely new GT Coupé (Dieter says 90 per cent of the GTC4Lusso is new) carrying the highly recognised logo of the prancing horse.

Power-wise, it sports the latest evolution of the naturally aspirated Ferrari GT V12 with a  displacement of 6262cc; this V12 punches out 690hp at 8000rpm and 796Nm at 5750rpm, with 80 per cent of that torque being developed as early as 1750rpm.

It boasts a 2.6kg/hp weight to power ratio that leads to a breathtaking performance; 0-100kph in 3.4 seconds, which is hailed as the fastest for a GT car, and a top speed of 335kph. It also boasts of a seamless integration of a complex vehicle dynamics control system to excel in all driving conditions but is said to come into its own on challenging low-grip surfaces to deliver a "consistent sense of stability and comfort".

Based on the latest fourth-generation of the Side Slip Control, Ferrari says its new patented 4RM-S (four-wheel drive, four-wheel steering) system integrates and controls the 4RM Evo four-wheel drive’s PTU (Power Transfer Unit), the rear wheel steering, E-Diff and SCM-E active damping.

The body styling, crafted by Ferrari Design, is seen as a further refinement of the shooting brake coupé profile that was first featured on the FF (which was also Ferrari’s first production four-wheel drive car) in 2011.

The luxury reference in the name is clearly carried by the four plush wraparound seats and a cabin that is said to carry a luxurious living space for all occupants. It toes the current automotive trend with a navigation and infotainment platform, complete with a large 10.25-inch HD monitor with touch-screen convenience centrally located on the dashboard.

The FF may only make up 10 per cent of Ferrari’s total sales but there is strong expectations of the GTC4Lusso reaching out to more Ferrari owners who like to drive with their families in tow.

With the strong demand in this part of the world for the Ferrari GT Coupé, potential owners might not have to wait too long to have this latest premium edition in their garage.


BMW M4 GT4 to see action for 2018 season

                MUNICH: BMW Motorsport will send the successor of the popular BMW M3 GT4 into action as of the 2018 season: the BMW M4 GT4.

This close-to-production car based on the BMW M4 Coupé continues the long tradition of BMW in customer racing. The newly developed GT sports car will complete its first tests at the end of 2016 so that customers will have a technically perfected car available for the start of the 2018 season.

"The GT4 category is currently experiencing a boom," said BMW Motorsport Director Jens Marquardt. "It offers affordable motorsport with cars of technical high-quality and, therefore, attracts a wide target audience. We see enormous potential around the world for privateer BMW teams for whom the BMW M4 GT4 is an option. The BMW M4 GT4 is designed perfectly for simple use by privateer teams, who can celebrate successes around the world as ambassadors for BMW Motorsport with this model."

The entire drivetrain, including electronics, will be taken from the BMW M4 Coupé. The carbon bonnet comes from the BMW M4 GTS, and the BMW M4 GT4 has carbon-fibre doors, a special motorsport front splitter and rear wing, as well as a racing exhaust system.

The seats, the brakes and the pedal box use solutions carried over from the BMW M6 GT3. The offer of contesting races in existing GT4 classes with the BMW M4 GT4 is open to customer teams around the world. BMW Motorsport will also use the new challenger to bring talented young drivers closer to the GT3 class as part of the BMW Motorsport Junior Programme.

The first cars are due to be delivered to customers in the second half of 2017. The first possible race appearance will be the 24 Hours of Dubai (AE) in January 2018.

Privateer teams can already register their interest in the BMW M4 GT4 using the following e-mail address: m4gt4@bmw-motorsport.com.


LG engineer is Asia's first certified automotive functional safety expert

                SEOUL, South Korea: LG Electronics (LG) is the first player to meet international testing standards for functional safety and cybersecurity management for vehicles.

A player in the electric vehicle (EV) components industry,  LG annually updates required certifications for its hardware and software solutions for EV components through leading global testing organization, TÜV Rheinland.

Recently, LG research engineer Kim Min-kyu obtained the Automotive Functional Safety Expert qualification, becoming the second individual ever to do so since the qualification program was established in 2011.

"With the rising importance of vehicle security and safety regulations in the global auto industry, acquiring certification for our auto components and technologies is key to maintaining competitiveness," said Eun Seok-hyun, president of LG Vehicle component Solutions (VS).

"We congratulate LG on producing Asia's first Functional Safety Expert, an achievement that reflects the company's outstanding, across-the-board performance in acquiring top industry certifications and qualifications," said Frank Juettner, CEO and director of TÜV Rheinland Korea.

"Obtaining the latest certifications, including ISO/SAE 21434, demonstrates LG's commitment to providing its customers and partners with the highest level of product, system safety and security."

Also, LG acquired functional safety certification for its ADAS front camera in the '4M' (Material, Method, Machine, Man) categories in 2022.

The company's vehicle components also comply with the Cyber Security Management System (CSMS) – the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe's (UNECE) regulation No. 155 (UN R155).

In 2018, LG had secured technical certification for Functional Safety Management (FSM) in infotainment development, and in 2021, its Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) front camera passed assessments for functional safety (product and processes) based on ISO 26262 – an international functional safety standard for the development of electrical and electronic systems for vehicles.

LG also plans to lead future trends in autonomous driving, where functional safety will be centered on the fast-growing area of Safety of The Intended Functionality (SOTIF).

SOTIF is becoming increasingly important as the entire auto industry seeks to incorporate and expand the use of various advanced technologies in their vehicles, including artificial intelligence (AI), high-definition maps, sensor data interfaces and cybersecurity applications.


BMW Group and E.ON team up for intelligent home charging

                MUNICH: The BMW Group and E.ON have agreed on the first pan-European cooperation for intelligent charging at home.

BMW AG management board member Frank Weber, responsible for development, says: “This will bring more balance to the private energy ecosystem, with lower costs and an improved carbon footprint, and will enable smart integration into the energy market in the future.”

Patrick Lammers, member of the Board of Management of E.ON SE, responsible for the customer solutions business, adds: “We will jointly set the standard for electrified vehicles to become part of the energy market in the future and support the energy transition.”

The cooperation will focus on at-home charging.

The BMW Group will be responsible for the vehicles and charging hardware and will manage the interface with the customer.

In addition to providing installation, electrical and connectivity services at customers' homes, E.ON will also be responsible for ensuring sustainable energy tariffs and access to the energy market.

The first customer offering of "Connected Home Charging" will be available in several European countries from the mid-second half of 2023.

The BMW Group operates one of Germany’s largest company charging networks, which E.ON has built up since 2019.

It now comprises more than 5,500 charging points at eight German locations.

More than 1,600 of these are eRoaming-capable and therefore publicly accessible.

Expansion will continue in 2023 and 2024: BMW branches in Germany will also be connected to the company charging network, which will then include more than 6,000 charging points.

All charging points are powered entirely by renewable energies.


Porsche Centre Ara Damansara makes opening official

                PETALING JAYA: Sime Darby Auto Performance (SDAP), the authorised importer of Porsche vehicles and parts in Malaysia, has officially opened the Porsche Centre Ara Damansara.

The new RM15mil Porsche Centre Ara Damansara is located at Sime Darby Motors City - 6, Jalan PJU 1A/7, Ara Damansara in Petaling Jaya, Selangor.

The centre has a built-up area of 12,102 square metres making it the largest 3S (Sales, Service and Spare parts) Porsche Centre within the Asia Pacific region.

This includes 8,000 square metres of working space across five levels, two showroom floors, two service and workshop levels and an importer office.

On the ground and first floors, the showroom area is able to accommodate up to 26 display cars.

Additionally, the new facility also features a dedicated Motorsports Zone which showcases both classic and modern Porsche racing cars as well as racing simulators

The service workshop operating on the second and third floors can house up to 21 operational service bays with repair and maintenance equipment, including frameless telescopic oil hydraulic lifts.

The After Sales reception area has also been enlarged and comprises of four air-conditioned dialogue bays for added comfort, Porsche Tequipment accessories and a dedicated “shop-in-shop” featuring the latest collection of Porsche Driver’s Selection.

The new facility was opened in conjunction with the launch of the all-electric Taycan sports car and also features high-performance Direct Current (DC) chargers which is available for customers at all Porsche Centres in Malaysia.

The chargers can deliver up to a maximum of 175kW and can fully charge a Taycan in around 36 minutes.

Adding to the capabilities of the new facility is its ability to handle high-voltage battery repairs.

“The customer journey begins with a coffee in the newly designed lounge area where fans of the brand can connect. In our experiential Motorsports Zone, we invite the whole family to test esports simulators or watch live screenings of races, such as FIA Formula E, Le Mans, Porsche Carrera Cup and even virtual racing,” added SDAP CEO Christopher Hunter.


Toyota to start selling Kirobo Mini talking partner in Japan

                TOYOTA CITY: Toyota plans to start selling launch its compact and cuddlesome "Kirobo Mini" communication partner through Toyota dealerships across Japan in 2017.

The nationwide rollout will be preceded by pre-sales at designated dealers in Tokyo and Aichi Prefecture this winter, for which advanced orders will be taken online. Kiboro Mini is tentatively priced at 39,800 yen (around RM1,620).

Toyota described the Kirobo Mini as a miniature communication partner developed to provide companionship. It fits in the palm of the hand and is only 10cm high when seated. It turns its head towards the person speaking and engages in casual conversation while moving its head and hands. Its compact size means it can be taken just about anywhere, helping it to fulfill its role as a companion always on hand for communication.

Kiboro Mini's range of gestures and conversation abilities are mainly made possible by connecting Kirobo Mini via Bluetooth to smartphones installed with a dedicated app. A built-in camera enables Kirobo Mini to recognise people's facial expressions, through which it tries to detect their emotions so that it can adjust its manner of speaking and moving. Kirobo Mini can also converse based on information drawn from the vehicle or home.

Kiboro Mini forms part of the Toyota goal to develop a humanlike interaction between man and machine.


Ford Mustang gathering breaks record

                KUALA LUMPUR: Mustang Club Malaysia set a new record in the Malaysia Book of Records for holding the largest gathering of Ford Mustang vehicles in the country recently.

Held on Sept 27, 2020, the get-together saw 137 Ford Mustang vehicles and their owners congregating at Pavilion Kuala Lumpur.

During the event, the certificate of recognition was presented to the Club’s President, Alfred C.K. Joseph by the Malaysia Book of Records’ Chief Operating Officer, Christopher Wong.

Mustang Club Malaysia was formed in 2018 has since grown rapidly in numbers with 245 members currently.

“Kudos to Mustang Club Malaysia for spearheading this event and setting a new record in the country. It is a tremendous feat to organise and mobilise 137 Mustang vehicles and club members. We are incredibly proud of their efforts.

"We continue to be committed in maintaining close relations with the network of various Ford owners’ clubs and supporting their activities to foster deeper mutual understanding and camaraderie,” said Syed Ahmad Muzri Syed Faiz, Managing Director, Sime Darby Auto ConneXion.


Renault restarts production at Moscow plant

                PARIS: French carmaker Renault resumed production at its Moscow plant today, says a company spokesman.

Renault suspended operations at its car assembly plant in Moscow in late February, saying at the time it was due to a "forced change in existing logistic routes".

The French company has lost nearly 30% of its market value in the wake of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and ensuing economic sanctions.

Russia is Renault’s second-biggest market, and it’s paying a heavy price for a US$1 billion deal sealed in 2007 with a top ally of Russian president Vladimir Putin.

Renault’s majority control of AvtoVaz, the Soviet-era maker of Ladas, and reliance on Russia for about 12% of its revenue are now matters of investor concern. — Reuters/Bloomberg


Maruti Suzuki goes upmarket in India with new seven-seater

                NEW DELHI: Maruti Suzuki, India's biggest automaker, is looking to break into the premium car segment with its new seven seater, as a growing number of buyers opt for bigger, feature-packed cars.

Maruti, known for small and compact cars that are mostly priced below 1 million rupees (RM57,000), today launched the Invicto people mover starting from around 2.5 million rupees (RM142,000).

The company aims to raise its brand image and enter a segment where it sees rapid growth as the purchasing power of Indian car buyers increases, chief executive Hisashi Takeuchi said at the launch.

"This is really a big challenge for us to go into this segment because we have no experience selling that sort of product so far," Takeuchi told reporters.

But the market is evolving fast and without a premium multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) Maruti risks losing share to rivals, Takeuchi said.

Maruti, majority owned by Japan's Suzuki Motor, made its name as a mass market car brand offering affordable prices and low maintenance costs. When it comes to premium cars, or those typically priced above 2 million rupees, buyers tend to turn to the likes of Toyota Motor or Volkswagen, say analysts.

Now there is a growing crop of Indians splurging on bigger, fancier cars, driving up sales of sport utility vehicles (SUVs) and MPVs that have touched record levels in the post-Covid spending boom.

Such vehicles made up more than 50% of total cars sold in the country last fiscal year versus 28% five years ago, industry data showed.

Meanwhile, the share of small and compact cars priced below 1 million rupees slipped to 60% of India's total car sales last fiscal year, from around 85% in fiscal year 2018-19. This is expected to fall further.

For Maruti, it has been a similar story.

Sales of cars priced below 1 million rupees fell to about 84% last fiscal year from 97% five years ago, said Shashank Srivastava, senior executive officer, marketing and sales at Maruti on the sidelines of the launch.

The company hopes the Invicto, which means undefeated in Latin, will create a premium halo that will "rub off" on sales of its other models, Srivastava said.

The bulk of Maruti's sales - about 53% - still come from small and compact cars but this is expected to fall to about 47%-48% as it launches models like the Invicto and sales of its SUVs pick up, said Srivastava.


WATCH: Czinger 21C hypercar flexes muscle

                SAN FRANCISCO: The Czinger 21C hypercar has released a second teaser video that shows off its performance ahead of its global debut at the Geneva Motor Show next month.

Pictured with a backdrop of the Alameda Naval Base here, the 21C showcased its performance figures and design lines.

Following on the first introduction, Czinger's latest teaser announces that its 21C achieves 1,233bhp and is capable of the 0-100kph dash in 1.9 seconds.

This performance is attained through Czinger's in-house developed, hybrid powertrain and additively manufactured vehicle structure.

The 21C is said to be driver-focused and features a two-person in-line seating configuration.

Czinger Vehicles is a company based in Los Angeles.

The 21C is designed, developed, engineered and made in Los Angeles using proprietary design and manufacturing technologies.

Czinger’s previous film, captured at California’s iconic Bixby Bridge and Big Sur, is shown below.


Highest bid ever: RM1,111,111 for 'Malaysia 1' number plate

                PUTRAJAYA: The special car registration number plate "Malaysia 1" has broken the record as the most expensive bid ever made for a single number.

The winning bid, made by Aldi International Sdn Bhd, was RM1,111,111, said Transport Minister Anthony Loke.

“The bidding for special plate numbers "Malaysia 1" to "Malaysia 9999" was opened to the public from Aug 1 to Aug 15.

“The number of successful bids were 3,353, with the highest bid for a single number totalling at RM1,111,111, for 'Malaysia 1’.

“Through this exercise, the government has earned RM13.1mil," said Loke at a press conference here today. "All of this money will go straight into the government’s coffers.”

The previous record bid was made for the number plate "V1", which was worth RM989,000.

There are still 6,645 available numbers left in the Malaysia series. The public can make their bids online or by visiting their nearest Road Transport Department (JPJ) branches.

Only "Malaysia 2020" is not available for bidding, as it has been reserved for Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad’s official car.


Kia Seltos to make its Malaysian debut in October

PETALING JAYA: The Kia Seltos mid-sized sports utility vehicle (SUV) will be landing in Malaysia and it'll be ready to serve in two variants.

Available in two variants, orders are currently being taken for the entry-level Seltos 1.6 EX and range-topping GT-Line while prices will be announced closer to its launch date sometime in October.

For colour options, there will be four colours in total starting with Glacier White Pearl and Gravity Grey for both models. Exclusive to the EX variant is Intense Red while the GT-Line gets Intelligency Blue.

As standard, power comes from a Gamma 1.6-litre (1,591cc) naturally-aspirated multi-point injection engine with dual overhead camshafts and dual continuously variable valve timing - meaning the engine's intake and exhaust strokes have been optimised for power and efficiency.

The petrol engine - producing 123PS at 6,300rpm and 150.7Nm of torque at 4,850rpm, gets managed by a six-speed automatic transmission that sends the twist to the front axle and driver are able to choose either Normal, Eco or Sport driving modes.

The Seltos rolls on 17-inch wheels with 215/60 series tyres (the same for the spare wheel), that partially hides the ventilated front 16 and solid rear 14-inch disc brakes with the front MacPherson struts and rear torsion beam hidden within the wheel wells.

Lighting the way ahead are automatic halogen projector headlights with manual levelling which flank the black Tiger Nose grille and gets paired up with front halogen fog lamps as well as LED daytime running lights.

The rear uses fast illuminating LEDs for the third brake light and rear light cluster.

Other external fixtures include a roof rack and powered tailgate with hands-free operation - simply approach the rear and the boot will open upon sensing the owner's key FOB.

Moving inside, the standard fitment includes keyless-entry with push-start button, gloss black accents and leather upholstery that's extended to the gear knob and sporty tri-spoke flat-bottom multifunction steering wheel with tilt and telescopic adjustability.

Staring back at the driver is a 3.5-inch colour TFT LCD supervision meter cluster with integrated trip computer, an electrochromic rearview mirror, overhead console with sunglass holder, rubber pedals, 60/40-split rear folding seats and manual climate controls.

Drivers can adapt the Seltos to their driving style via three driving modes of Normal, Eco and Sport as well as the traction control programme with Snow, Mud and Sand while rear parking sensors and cruise control provide added convenience.

The infotainment unit is a touchscreen audio display that's been infused with radio, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth connectivity and a reverse camera with dynamic guidelines.

For safety, both variants get six airbags, anti-lock braking system, vehicle stability management, electronic stability control, hill-start assist, traction control and Isofix anchor points.

The range-topping GT-Line gets differentiated by its gloss black grille finished with satin chrome and colour accents as well as LEDs for its headlights and fog lights.

Other fitments include front parking sensors and a front faux skid-plate in a combination of satin chrome and matching colour accents

The interior may seem status quo except there's now a larger 7.0-inch colour TFT LCD supervision meter cluster staring back at the driver who now operates the vehicle with metal pedals and has access to a wireless Qi charger and a heads-up display.

Also, the driver is now seated in an eight-way powered seat with two-way lumbar support who gets cooled by the automatic dual-zone climate controls with automatic window defogger and rear air vents.

KIA Seltos 1.6 GT-Line

KIA Seltos 1.6 EX


Somorova is new Continental Tyre Malaysia MD

                PETALING JAYA: Andrea Somorova has returned to Continental Tyre Malaysia as managing director last month.

Somorova joins from Continental of Taiwan where she was general manager.

She takes over from Samir Gupta who now oversees the India Operations while continuing to head the Central Asia Region Passenger and Light Truck Tires Replacement Business (PLT RE) at Continental.

The Slovakia native has been at Continental Group for over 23 years, of which 18 years was spent in Asia including a six-year stint in Malaysia from 2004 to 2010.

Somorova started her career with Continental Group in 1999 in Slovakia before moving on to Continental in Germany before assuming managerial roles in Asia including in Malaysia, and other APAC markets.

While in Taiwan, she steered Continental to achieve the highest brand awareness among its Asia Pacific markets.

She also led the team through one of its most challenging periods during the Covid-19 pandemic.

“It has been an amazing journey for me in Continental Group and the last five years leading the Taiwan business has been nothing short of extraordinary,” Somorova said.

“I am very excited to return to Malaysia and build on the work done previously.

“I look forward to guiding Continental Tyre Malaysia on its growth trajectory working closely with our teams on the ground to deliver innovative tyre solutions to our passenger and commercial vehicle customers.

“I always welcome new ideas from my team and believe that empowering them through trust, collaboration, and clear communication works best to deliver on our shared goals,” she said.


Shell takes lucky 18 to Germany for BMW Driving Experience

                MUNICH: In celebration of BMW Motorsport’s premium technology partnership with Shell, 18 top performing Malaysian workshop owners got to enjoy Munich, Germany, and BMW's Driving Experience.

The 18 guests were given the opportunity to learn how to execute a 180-degree backwards spin as well as how to best navigate through a slalom course by expert instructors.

In addition, they were also treated to a fast-paced taxi-ride in a BMW M4 and also discovered if they had with it takes to drive in the world’s most advanced touring car racing series – the Deutsche Tourenwagen Masters (DTM).

“It was simply one of the best experiences ever while learning new skills from the BMW expert drivers,” said Niew Theam Keat who owns a service centre in Kuala Lumpur specialising in Continental cars.

 Malaysian workshop owner, Ahmad Ramzi and his driving partner, David Chin during the BMW Driving Experience

Throughout the visit, they also learnt about the science behind the technical partnership in the bespoke ‘Shell Helix Ultra DTM Garage’ where they witnessed a live oil analysis in the Shell mobile Track Lab.

They also took a virtual reality tour of the product benefits of Shell Helix Ultra with PurePlus Technology and even got to view the Shell BMW M4 DTM replica car up close.

For the duration of the trip, they were given the opportunity to explore the scenic and historic city of Munich as well as soak up the Bavarian culture, before ending with a Gala Dinner at the BMW Museum, where Shell Helix and professional BMW works drivers joined them for an exclusive awards ceremony.

“As Premium Technology Partner for BMW Motorsport, Shell Helix Ultra has privileged access to all the professional BMW works drivers and it was fantastic to have them join us in Munich to share the importance of a premium motor oil in enhancing engine performance and put it to the test together with our guests,” said Shell Helix global brand manager Alexandra Ip.


Toyota Fortuner 2.4 VRZ 4X2: Sturdy, elegant and able

                The arrival of the Toyota Fortuner test unit was entirely fortuitous. It showed up just when the family from out of town came over for a visit. All six of them. The Fortuner was thus the appointed vehicle for the entourage as they were whisked off on a tour of scenic spots and an exploration of culinary delights across the Klang Valley. All in the name of family bonding, you see.

Exterior

Standing tall, the Fortuner is a sturdy and modern SUV.

The second-generation SUV saw some minor updates in September last year. That was also the time the model line-up was expanded to a choice of four with the VRZ diesel variants in 4X2 and 4X4 guises making their debut, and kitted up to broaden their appeal to city slickers. The VRZ variants are positioned between the top-of- the-line petrol 2.7 SRZ 4X4 and the diesel Fortuner 2.4 4X4.

In the Fortuner 2.4 VRZ 4 X 2 trim, it strives to look refined and elegant from every angle especially in the interior. It shares a number of items in common with the 2.7 SRZ

The 2.4 VRZ gets automatic bi-LED projector headlamps with LED Daytime Running Lights, LED foglamps, rear LEDlamps, puddle lamp, and 18-inch alloy rims. Like the front, the rear now gets disc brakes for better braking performance.

The sleek LED headlights and taillights that wrapped around the corners do wonders to perk up appearances though the decorative stripes near the C-pillars don’t do the Fortuner any favours.

In fact, both front and rear lights wouldn’t look out of place in a large sedan. And they are a cue of what to expect from the interior once you hop inside.

It rides on 18-inch wheels shod on highway-terrain tyres.

Interior

In Toyota parlance, the “VRZ” label refers to an SUV that has various upgrades/extra trimmings to give it that premium look and feel. This particular variant hits it off with brown leather upholstery which complement the black sections of the interior.

The dashboard looks pleasant without being busy and is lined by soft touchpoints above the glove box, at the knee level and door hand rests to make it feel a bit more expensive. However, only the driver’s seat is electrically adjustable, so you also realise Toyota is building to a price point.

The multi-functional tiller is part-wood, and reminds one of the Camry’s. It comes with paddle shifters and looks gimmicky. We suspect most Fortuner drivers won’t be using it much –just like us – as the default was to let the auto transmission do its work, which it did well enough for us to almost forget this thing has paddle shifters.

With seven adults aboard, the Fortuner is comfortable for the long haul for five in the first two rows but it feels claustrophobic in the last. The rear-most seats are really for two small kids.That’s typically the case for most 7-seat SUVs unless it’s a Lexus LX 570, which can actually be comfy in Row 3. But that’s a different class of SUV altogether.

Second row seats are 60:40 split and can slide and recline. They tumble forward to allow access to the last row but entry and exit can be troublesome for the portly. The air-conditioning vent in third row, while convenient, is too near the ear and blows loud.

Retractable hookson the back of the front seats are useful for hanging small items. It would have been ideal had it been positioned higher up, as they tend to intrude into knee space.

Practicality

Being a tall vehicle, running boards are helpful to let smaller occupants get in and out easily.

Other than its seven people-capacity, the second-generation Fortuner has enough storage space for small and big items to make each trip a pleasant one. There are side door pockets and nine cupholders, including an in-dash cupholder on the driver side.

Cargo space at 200l is minuscule with all seats in place.

The last two rows of seats can be folded forward to allow bulkier cargo to be transported and its size is big enough for most hauling tasks. The two last row seats can also be stashed sideways against the cabin walls, narrowing the storage gap considerably.

A nice touch is a cooler feature in the upper glove box that can chill a few cans of drinks on a hot day. A digital video recorder is standard issue but it wasn’t working properly on the test vehicle.

Other practical amenities are: dual zone air-conditioning for front and rear passengers; powered tailgate with memory function and push-start ignition.

Safety

The Fortuner offers high safety levels and has been rated 5 stars by Asean NCAP for its improved structural strength and enhanced safety features.

In the mix are seven airbags (driver’s knee bag included), anti-lock braking with electronic brakeforce distribution and brake assist, vehicle stability control, hill start assist and Isofix anchor points for child seats in second row.

Active Traction Control and Downhill Assist Control are only offered in higher-priced variants.

Equipment

Other equipment not mentioned earlier are: cruise control, all-round disc brakes; keyless entry; a 4.2-inch colour multi-info display; 8-way electrically adjustable driver’s seat;LED-based fog lamps; powered wing mirrors with puddle lamps; and premium solar and security tint. A DVD-AVX infotainment system with an eight-inch touchscreen and six speakers is standard.

There are also more accessories to customise the Fortuner if you are willing to dig deeper into your wallet.

On the options list are a TRD Sportivo Package, a roof-mounted monitor (present in the test unit), a Panoramic View Monitor and a Blind Spot Monitor.

The Fortuner doesn’t come with satellite navigation by default; that’s an option as well if you get an upgraded 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system that also offers a reverse camera with guide lines. For many car buyers, integrated navigation is unnecessary as Waze on their phones do just as well.

Performance

Bereft of a 4WD drive system and low-range gears, this version of the Fortuner is meant for urban settings. Like the Hilux, it uses the same 2.4L turbodiesel engine that makes 148hp and 400Nm, mated with a six-speed automatic transmission and power relayed to the rear axle.

Peak output arrives at 3,400rpm, while maximum torque comes in from 1,600rpm - 2,000rpm.

Ride & Handling

Most SUV owners here don’t go offroading and that’s a fact.

So a vehicle with a lighter 4X2 system makes sense and is easier on the pocket – more so now than ever.

Like the Hilux, the Fortuner is based on a ladder frame chassis. Both use independent double wishbone in front but the Fortuner swaps out the leaf springs of the pick-up truck for rear coil springs in the rear for improved handling and a more comfortable ride.

Cabin insulation has been improved so it’s relatively quiet when the Fortuner is speeding down the highway.

The diesel clatter isn’t that noticeable from inside the cabin and all but disappear once the Fortuner gets going.

Acceleration is smooth and throttle response is good. Going uphill at full load is decently robust without having to push the engine too hard on account of the diesel mill’s natural low-end torque. The Fortuner offers the option to save a bit of fuel or make the engine livelier with the respective Eco and Power mode buttons, and that’s appreciated.

While looking like a sedan inside, the Fortuner still can't run away from its truck roots even with the suspension changes.

For what it is, the Fortuner feels agile in turns though there's some lean but it's well controlled and won't cause panic attacks in the driver. Some of the vibrations from rough roads do get transmitted into the cabin so it's not as refined as how a sedan would ride on such surfaces. At the end of the day, it's a compromise and an acceptable one in this case.

Backed by low-end grunt, high ground clearance and good approach angle, the Fortuner can still handle some light offroad duties that should see it able to cross gentle terrain and ford shallow streams/flooded roads without calling for rescue service. But the fact it is only a 4X2 means it runs the risk of getting stuck if it enters boggy ground.

Fuel consumption

Being a diesel vehicle, this Fortuner goes far on 80 litres of fuel. The family adventure with the SUV criss-crossed the valley, and up and down Genting Highlands. It included visits to Kuala Selangor for seafood and firefly watching. And then it was onwards to KL/PJ and Sepang for more shopping and other indulgences.

Some 70% of the trips were on highways, while the rest was city driving. We managed to clock a pleasing 9.2 l/100km.

Reliability

The Fortuner comes with a 5-year warranty with unlimited mileage.

Price

The Fortuner 2.4 VRZ AT 4X2 retails at RM175,346 (on-the-road minus GST and without insurance). This is a reduction of RM10,454 following the new government’s decision to have zero-rated GST from June 1. Expect the price to go up post-SST (Sales & Services Tax) from Sept 1.

The three other variants are priced as followed: the base 2.4 AT 4X4 (RM160,251); 2.4 VRZ AT 4X4 (RM184,779.); and 2.7 SRZ AT 4X4 (RM171,594).

Summary

The fuel efficiency and 400Nm torque come in useful when hauling a whole lot of people across great distances, and that’s nice work from the diesel mill. The Fortuner may not be as pretty or as affordable as some of its competitors but Japanese-grade quality still counts for much in a beefy looking SUV that meets the essential needs of a people-lugger – and then some.


Nissan to set up EV battery plants in Japan, Britain, says Nikkei

                TOKYO: Nissan Motor Co will partner with China-based battery maker Envision AESC group to build new battery plants for electric vehicles in Japan and United Kingdom and will invest over 200 billion yen (RM7.5bil), Nikkei reported today.

The Japanese automaker will start turning out batteries in two new plants as early as 2024, aiming for total capacity sufficient to power 700,000 EVs per year, the report said.

"Nissan will continue to accelerate electrification towards carbon neutrality, however we have no further plans to announce at this time," said a Nissan spokesman.

Batteries are one of the costliest components of EVs as raw materials account for the largest part of the cost.

To save costs, the Japanese automaker's alliance partner Renault chief executive Luca de Meo said this month the two companies are in talks to collaborate more by using the same battery technology, and Gupta said they have agreed on the common specifications of batteries


Nexteer Automotive shows new driving tech at Auto Shanghai 2023

                SHANGHAI: Nexteer Automotive is displaying a full range of steering, driveline and software technologies at the 2023 Shanghai Auto Show from April 18 - 27, showcasing how the company, as a global technology leader, solves motion control challenges across all megatrends in the automotive industry.

Nexteer's booth feature a vehicle concept display, which highlights how Nexteer technologies, such as Steer-by-Wire (SbW), stowable steering column, high-performance halfshafts, steering software and more, support the various megatrends.

High-Output and Modular Options for Electric Power Steering (EPS)

Nexteer's complete line of underhood High-Output EPS systems offer increased output capabilities to meet the needs of heavier vehicles such as EVs, without the need to move up to more premium EPS technologies.

High-Output EPS can also help convert heavier vehicles like light commercial vehicles from hydraulic to electric power steering – enabling them to benefit from EPS's added safety and performance features.

In addition, Nexteer has expanded its cost-effective modular and platform design for Column-Assist EPS and Rack-Assist EPS.

These leverage Nexteer's existing, industry-leading EPS building blocks to achieve scalability for Nexteer and flexibility to meet a wide range of OEM customers' requirements.

Lightweight & Efficient Driveline Solutions

Nexteer's wide range of halfshaft technology solutions offer lower mass, high durability and excellent noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) performance.

For example, Nexteer's halfshaft designs can meet expanded fatigue requirements due to increased torque and regenerative braking needs in EVs, and the Company's specialized joint types can be used for enhanced NVH and efficiency needs due to the quietness of EVs.

Steering Software Solutions

Nexteer's software portfolio includes: Software for Advanced Steering Features and Functions; Road Surface Detection; Vehicle Health Management; Brake-to-Steer; and Safety / Cybersecurity.

These solutions increase safety, performance and convenience across all ADAS (advanced driver-assistance system) levels and in connected environments via software-defined vehicles.


Proton and Pekat Group to install green energy photovoltaic panels at car maker's sites

                KUALA LUMPUR: Proton and Pekat Group Bhd, through their respective subsidiaries, have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to promote the adoption of solar photovoltaic (PV) technology within the national car maker's business ecosystem.

The MoU was inked between Proton's Proton Global Services Sdn Bhd and Pekat Group's Solaroo Systems.

Under the collaboration, Solaroo will install rooftop PV panels at 50 sites of Proton's staff and vendors' premises that would provide an output of 1.5MW-peak in two years.

The MoU also continues Pekat’s successful launch of a 12MWp grid-connected solar PV system at Proton’s manufacturing plant in Tanjung Malim, Perak, enabling a reduction in carbon footprint and energy costs since March this year.

Appearing for Proton were Proton Edar chief executive officer Roslan Abdullah, Proton Global Service chief executive officer Lee Yeet Chuan, while Solaroo was represented by director Johann Sze and Pekat by its chief executive officer Chin Soo Mau.

 (From left) Roslan, Lee, Johann and Chin.

Roslan said the move would help Proton improve its ESG (Environmental Social and Governance) score and provide an ethical and sustainable impact of its business.

“With energy costs still elevated, coupled with the continuous push among carbon conscious stakeholders towards sustainability, the partnership between PGS and Solaroo marks the beginning of the next phase in Proton’s journey towards a more holistic green energy adoption,” he said.

Roslan also said the adoption of more clean energy measures throughout Proton's ecosystem was in line with the government’s target to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050.

Lee said the investment into the PV system would range from RM5mil to RM12mil as costs would depend on the size of the sites to be installed.

Meanwhile, Johann said the collaboration with Proton would improve Solaroo’s standing in providing PV services in the commercial and industrial segment.

“With the inevitable electricity tariff hike, the usage of renewable energy is appreciable in today’s economy,” he said.


Is Alpine about to go green?

                PARIS: It's only a matter of time until Alpine starts work on a hybrid model, says Renault.

Alpine will join the all-electric revolution, Groupe Renault's executive vice-president for sales and regions Olivier Murguet told British publication Auto Express.

According to Murguet, "Electrification will be massive." He told the publication that "[they] have to intensify electrification. Alpine cannot escape," going on to cite the latest Ferrari as an example of somewhat-unlikely vehicles to have taken a turn towards greener pastures.

Whether equipped with thermal, hybrid or electric engines, future Alpine models will nonetheless have to maintain the brand's DNA, which is synonymous with performance, agility and sportiness.

For the time being, the release date of the first hybrid model has not been made public. We do know, however, that an SUV is currently being considered at Alpine, for a possible 2022 release.

As of now, Alpine's sole model, the A110, comes in three versions: Pure, Légende and S, the latter of which, the A110S, is equipped with a 1.8-litre, 292hp turbocharged engine, whereas the other two models reach 252hp.


Volvo returns to Sarawak

                KUCHING: Volvo Car Malaysia, together with its appointed dealer, Fotroende Automobile, marked a return into Sarawak after an absence of a decade with the grand opening of Volvo Kuching – a full-fledged 3S centre (Sales, Service, and Spare Parts) located along Jalan Tun Jugah.

The launch ceremony was officiated by the Managing Director of Volvo Car Malaysia, Lennart Stegland who impressed on the importance of Sarawak for the future growth of the brand.

 From left, Lai and Stegland at the launch of Volvo’s 3S centre in Kuching.

“Sarawak’s potential in the premium car market cannot be understated. It is vital that we regain a foothold in Kuching before expanding into other cities within the state. We have worked hard to ensure that the brand is represented by competent and passionate dealer partners that will serve our customers well.”

Like all Volvo dealerships, Volvo Kuching will adhere to the latest showroom and service standards which Volvo terms “Volvo Retail Experience” or VRE – a customer-centric, Scandinavian-inspired experience that is cool on the outside and warm on the inside.

“VRE is based on Volvo’s brand philosophy which revolves around people and what’s important to them. I am confident that Fotroende Automobile will deliver the expected level of service to our loyal customers in Kuching,” Stegland added.

The company’s name (Fotroende Automobile) is derived from the Swedish word “Förtroende” which means “confidence”.

“Demand for the brand is strong, especially with the arrival of exciting new models from Volvo. We are proud that have been chosen by Volvo Car Malaysia to represent the brand here in Kuching,” said Managing Director of Fotroende Automobile, David Lai.

The Volvo showroom in Kuching opens from 8:30am till 5:30pm, Monday to Friday, and closes at 4pm on Saturdays. It is also open on Sundays and Public Holidays from 10am to 3pm.


Jaguar Land Rover bonds with 007

                WHITLEY (United Kingdom): Jaguar Land Rover has a new mission with James Bond – a three-year partnership at the state-of-the-art interactive experience, 007 Elements in Sölden, Austria.

007 Elements is the first immersive, interactive James Bond cinematic installation, at the summit of the Gaislachkogl mountain in Sölden.

007 Elements offers visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the world of the iconic secret agent in a new mountain-top location next to the ice Q restaurant used as the Hoffler Klinik in Spectre.

Interactive displays featuring Jaguar Land Rover technical content along with the Land Rover Defender and Range Rover Sport SVR used for filming Spectre will form part of the experience.

Visitors will also see the latest Jaguar Land Rover technology, with the artificial intelligence systems and 90kWh lithium-ion battery from an electric Jaguar I-PACE performance SUV used to power a wireframe model of the C-X75 concept car that starred in a spectacular car chase through Rome in Spectre.

Jaguar Land Rover vehicles have appeared in nine Bond films since Octopussy in 1983, when Roger Moore made a dramatic escape in a Range Rover Classic driven by Bianca (Tina Hudson).

Mark Cameron, Jaguar Land Rover Experiential Marketing Director, said: “From one British icon to another, Jaguar Land Rover is proud to be part of 007 Elements , the new James Bond experience. We have collaborated with EON Productions and Cable Car Companies Sölden to showcase our Bond vehicles and latest technologies in this unique installation overlooking the Ötztal Alps.”

007 Elements will open to the public on July 12 2018. For further information visit www.007elements.com


BYD probed for pollution amid reports of nosebleeds in children

                SHENZHEN: BYD Co., the Chinese automaker backed by Warren Buffett, has come under fire for pollution at one of its factories that residents say has caused nosebleeds in hundreds of children.

Officials in Changsha, the capital of central China’s Hunan province, sent a team to BYD’s factory to investigate gas emissions after receiving complaints from neighbours, the local government said in a statement on its official Weibo account Sunday.

The team included third-party testing institutions and experts who will try to get to the bottom of the issue that’s seen scores of parents in Changsha protest.

According to one report, more than 600 children living near the production plant in the city’s Yuhua district have experienced repeated nosebleeds since April.

Shenzhen-based BYD said over the weekend that its emissions comply with regulations and noted it has taken steps to reduce the odour caused by the plant, which has been in operation since 2012.

BYD also said that it has filed police reports alleging the complaints about nosebleeds are groundless and malicious.

BYD is one of China’s most successful car companies in terms of sales, producing both conventional petrol engined automobiles as well as electric vehicles. It also makes batteries for EVs.


Mercedes-Benz Services Malaysia gets new MD

                PUCHONG: Mercedes-Benz Services Malaysia has appointed Anamika Talwar as its new managing director.

Talwar's position takes effect since Nov 1 and will replace Mike Ponnaz who goes on to become the managing director of Mercedes-Benz Financial Services in Hong Kong.

Talwar brings with her more than two decades of experience comprising of building new businesses, running country operations as well as driving growth and innovation.

She previously worked as the Regional Head of Strategy, Insurance and Business Development for the Americas region and as the regional Head of Sales & Marketing as well as Digital Transformation for Africa and the Asia Pacific region.

Before joining Mercedes-Benz Services Malaysia, Anamika served as the managing director of Mercedes-Benz Financial Services Singapore for three years.

There, she led the transformation of the customer journey to introduce paperless digital lending and was recognized as the “Digital Leader of the Year” by Women in IT Awards Asia in 2019.

During her leadership, the business received several awards for digital innovation and was recognized as the “Best Luxury Car Financing Specialist”.

Talwar has a degree in engineering from the Indian Institute of Technology, Bombay and an MBA from Carnegie Melon University.

“Mercedes-Benz Services Malaysia is a leader in the mobility and financial services industry, and I am excited for this opportunity in Malaysia to follow the strong business momentum set by former managing director Mike Ponnaz.

"Our customers are the focal point of our strategy and we will continue to delight them with an evolving suite of value-added financing and insurance options tailored to their needs,” said Talwar.


Overview: Mercedes-Benz X-Class

                STUTTGART: The Mercedes-Benz X-Class unites the typical traits of a pickup - robustness, functionality, strength and off-road capabilities - with the classical characteristics of a Mercedes - design, comfort, driving dynamics and safety.

Brand characteristic SUV design: With the centrally positioned star, twin-louvre radiator grille, powerfully honed bonnet and headlamps extending far into the wings, the X-Class seamlessly fits in to the Mercedes-Benz portfolio.

Premium effect on a new level: Three trim parts for the cockpit, six seat covers including two leather variants with contrasting topstitching, and two colours for the roof lining provide the widest choice of materials and colours in this vehicle segment.

A pickup to suit different lifestyles and work environments: The PURE basic variant for classic robust use, PROGRESSIVE for higher requirements in terms of quality feel and comfort, and POWER as the high-end variant for urban lifestyles.

Top-of-the-range engine in the segment: A top-of-the-range V6 diesel with 190 kW/258 hp will be released mid-2018 occupying a leading position in the mid-size pickup segment. The market launch will start with the diesel X 220 d (120 kW/163 hp) and X 250 d (140 kW/190 hp) as well as a petrol engine (122 kW/165 hp) in selected markets.

Individualisation on account of a diverse range of Mercedes-Benz accessories: As from its market launch, customers can add a styling bar, side bar, canopy, various covers as well as numerous cargo and off-road solutions – all developed and designed by Mercedes.

Driving enjoyment on a par with passenger cars: Thanks to the wide track, the spring and damping system tuned for the comfort typical of a Mercedes, and the coil springs as well as internally vented disc brakes on the front and rear, the X-Class is the first pickup that offers not just excellent off-road but also superb on-road performance.

All-wheel drive for any surface: The engageable 4MATIC all-wheel drive with low-range gearing and optional differential lock on the rear axle masters any terrain. From the middle of next year a permanent all-wheel drive will be available.

Star safety: Like all Mercedes-Benz vehicles, the X-Class stands out for its exemplary passive and active safety equipment. This includes Active Brake Assist, Lane Keeping Assist and Traffic Sign Assist, among others.

The first intelligently connected pickup: Thanks to Mercedes me connect, X-Class customers are connected to their vehicle via smartphone at all times and can call up useful information such as the location of the vehicle or the fuel level, and navigate from door to door.

Attractively priced in the segment: The X-Class is available in Germany from 37,294 Euro (incl. 19 percent VAT). Market launch begins in November 2017 in Europe. South Africa and Australia will follow at the beginning of 2018, as well as Argentina and Brazil at the beginning of 2019.


Jeep Renegade featured in series of clips

                LONDON: Factory Media, the leading specialist in lifestyle sports, is helping Jeep in the UK to promote the four-wheel drive Renegade sport utility vehicle (SUV) by unveiling a series of videos to help explore the past, present and future ‘renegades’ of its surf and mountain biking sports ambassadors.

Jeep’s Renegade SUV will be the spearhead of the story to help extreme sports presenters Tim Warwood and Adam Gendle go off-road to meet the Trek Factory Racing cycling team of mountain bikers Dan, Rachel and Gee Atherton as well as big wave surfer Andrew Cotton.

The series of videos are currently being released and is being called ‘Ultimate Renegades’, which will reveal the adventures of the Atherton Jeep ambassadors.

Warwood and Gendle will give an insight into the sporting personalities as well as showing exclusive behind-the-scenes content and teaser footage.

"It’s great the likes of the Athertons are able to travel to off-road remote locations in their Renegades and test themselves to the extreme. The Renegade is literally enabling them to go anywhere and do anything,” said Jeep UK head of brand Damien Dally.

The Ultimate Renegades series are available on Jeep UK's Facebook page, Twitter and Instagram accounts.

The Jeep Renegade is being sold in the UK from £17,495 (RM99,700) and is available in Sport, Longitude, Limited, Trailhawk, Night Eagle, Dawn of Justice and a limited edition 75th Anniversary trim levels.

With either an automatic or manual transmission in mind, engine choices include a 140hp 1.4-litre turbocharged or 110hp 1.6-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine as well as a 120hp 1.6-litre or 140hp 2.0-litre turbodiesels for choice while rolling on 16-inch aluminium wheels with 215/65 series tyres.

As standard it comes with air conditioning, electric parking brake, electric power steering,
six-speaker sound system, Ecodrive (drive monitoring system), 3.5-inch monochrome TFT display, electrically adjustable external mirrors, start-stop functionality and steering wheel controls.

For safety, there's six airbags, electronic roll mitigation, electronic stability control, traction control, hill-start assist, panic brake assist, ISOFIX anchor points, trailer sway control and tyre pressure monitoring system.


Pan Borneo Highway expansion and MRT 3 get go-ahead

                PETALING JAYA: The government has approved the Klang Valley Mass Rapid Transit Line 3 (MRT3) project and the expansion of the Pan Borneo Highway project, says Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob.

The Prime Minister said priority will be given to local contractors especially bumiputras to generate business opportunities as well as to create employment opportunities.

"This will spur economic growth and development, in particular the government’s objective to further strengthen the business sector, as well as to create 600,000 jobs this year.

"Implementation of the MRT 3 project will complement the existing public transport infrastructure in the Klang Valley to provide integrated, affordable and seamless services for Malaysians.

"In relation to the Pan Borneo Highway, the first phase of the Sabah segment is being implemented and involves 15 packages in which work progress so far has reached 52% and is expected to be completed by October 2024.

"To improve the link, the government has agreed to continue the implementation of 19 additional work packages that will involve an alignment of 367km with a construction period of five years.

"The first phase of Sarawak Pan Borneo Highway will involve a range of 786km and has achieved 78% work progress so far.

"To complement the Sarawak segment, the government also agreed to implement the Sarawak-Sabah Link Road project and the Trans Borneo Highway project," he said in a statement today.

Ismail Sabri said for flood mitigation projects, the government is currently preparing a development allocation of RM1bil per annum under the 12th Malaysia Plan.

"Taking into account the severe north-east monsoon flood phenomenon resulting in loss of lives and damaged properties, the Cabinet has decided to increase and expedite flood mitigation projects with additional expenditure of RM15bil between 2023 and 2030," he added.

He said implementation of high-impact infrastructure projects in the peninsula, Sabah and Sarawak including construction of integrated rail networks and highways as well as flood mitigation projects will spur economic development as well as contribute to national competitiveness and the well-being of the people.


Hyundai announces pop-up hotel powered by electric cars

                LONDON: South Korean carmaker Hyundai has announced the first hotel in the world to be powered by cars – naturally a fleet of all-electric models from its own range.

Power comes from Hyundai Ioniq 5 models, which feature a vehicle-to-load (V2L) function, a bi-directional charging ability that allows the EV to power domestic appliances and in this case, an entire hotel.

The feature is becoming increasingly common on electric vehicles which, like all EVs, feature big batteries which are not doing anything useful when the vehicle is parked or sitting idle.

Hyundai is among several EV manufacturers who have begun to think about how these batteries could be useful in such situations.

The Hyundai Hotel is located near Epping Forest in the Essex countryside north of here.

Hyundai hopes it will appeal to people who prefer to go on holiday closer to home as the cost of living in Europe soars. The firm said research in Britain bears out the trend.

The hotel is a pop-up clearly designed to garner publicity and will only open for business for 14 nights from Oct 19 to Nov 5 with an option to return in 2023.

The "pop-up" Hyundai Hotel includes a luxury cabin, restaurant and private cinema – all of which are off-grid.

The project follows last year's Hyundai Ioniq 5-powered wooden cabin cum home office in the Swedish woods, part of company plans to offer "electrified experiences integral to an eco-friendly lifestyle."


Volvo Cars to set up tech hub in Stockholm

                STOCKHOLM: Volvo Cars will establish a tech hub in the Swedish capital of Stockholm it said today, as it seeks to reach its goal to sell at least half of its cars online.

The Gothenburg-based automaker said over 700 employees skilled in areas such as software engineering, data science and analytics, would be located at the new hub.

"The expansion will support Volvo Cars' strong growth, as well as its mid-decade ambitions to sell at least half of all its cars online and to develop at least half of all software in-house," it said in a statement.

Volvo, majority owned by China's Geely Holding, also aims for 50% of its sales to be pure electric cars by the middle of this decade.


Production of new Nissan LEAF kicks off in Europe

                SUNDERLAND: The Nissan LEAF is probably as synonymous with all-electric vehicle technology as the Toyota Prius is with hybrid technology. So, even though the amount of EVs in the market is about to expand exponentially, the LEAF is still the biggest-selling electric vehicle in the world, and the all-new second-generation of the Nissan EV has just gone into production in Europe, with deliveries to customers across the continent set to begin in February 2018.

Probably the most important enhancement with the arrival of the new model is the increased range it offers drivers on a single battery charge. The new model has a range 378km, up from the previous best of 250km, but Nissan isn't pinning all its hopes of further success with the new model on extended range alone. The all-new LEAF will also have a healthy dose of the latest Nissan advanced driver-assist and connectivity technology onboard too.

Production of the car has now got under way at Nissan's plant in Sunderland in Britain, which follows in the tyre-tracks of the first-generation model that's been in production in Britain since 2013, and has sold more than 85,000 units across Europe since it first arrived as an import from Japan in 2011.

Although the car has yet to find its way to European consumers, it can already claim to be a multiple award-winner. At the CES (Consumer Electronics Show) annual CES Unveiled ceremony in New York recently, the new LEAF was named Best of Innovation award winner for Vehicle Intelligence and Self-Driving Technology, and honoree for Tech for a Better World.

Among the technological innovations, the new LEAF features a new e-Pedal to allow the driver to start, accelerate, decelerate and stop the car by nothing more than increasing or decreasing the pressure applied to the accelerator. It also includes ProPILOT advanced driving assistance, which is a cutting-edge take on an adaptive cruise control, and ProPILOT Park, which is a fully-automatic parking system.