Lotus 3-Eleven and Evora Sport 410 now available in Malaysia

 The handover presentation of the Lotus 3-Eleven to its new owner Jeffry (second from left). Present at the event were (from left), Ahmad, Radzaif, and Tengku Djan.

KUALA LUMPUR: If you are in the market for an exclusive, lightweight sports car then you are in luck. Lotus Cars Malaysia unveiled not one but two models - Lotus 3-Eleven and Lotus Evora Sport 410 - which are now available in Malaysia.

The 3-Eleven is Lotus’ fastest car in its product range and is available in two variants - the Road version for RM640,855 and the Race version for RM868,214.

The Lotus Evora Sport 410 also comes in two choices - manual and automatic transmission - with a starting price of RM640,999 for the latter and RM651,999 for the former.

 Lotus Evora Sport 410.

The new 3-Eleven features an all-new lightweight body with an open cockpit design (which means no roof and no doors) and a revised supercharged 3.5 litre engine which produces 450hp.

The 3-Eleven hits 0-100kph in 3.4 seconds and features a lightweight aluminium extruded and bonded chasis while the body is comprised of carbon fibre. The front and rear suspension is a fully independent double wishbone type, fixed anti-roll bars, Eibach springs and Ohlins single adjustable dampers.

Other features include engine stop/start button, adjustable traction control, full-colour TFT display and 225/40 18inch wheels in the front with 275/35 19inch wheels in the rear.

The Race version includes a more aggressive aero kit, a sequential gearbox and an FIA compliant driver’s seat with a six-point harness.

The Evora Sport 410 has a bit more practicality with a roof and two doors and, in this latest iteration derived from the Evora 400, the boffins at Hethel (Lotus’ manufacturing facility in the UK) has slashed 70kg of weight, increased its power output, and improved its handling.

The Evora Sport 410 now comes with a host of high-performance carbon fibre components as standard and the supercharged engine produces 410hp and takes only 4.1 seconds from 0-100kph.

 Lotus Evora Sport 410.

Some of its features include driver selectable ESP modes - Drive/Sport/Race, tyre pressure monitoring system, active exhaust valve control, and black Alcantara trimmed carbon fibre sports seats with contrast stitching.

Can’t get enough of carbon fibre? Well, the 410 has it in spades with the carbon fibre tailgate with integrated rear spoiler and louvered backlight, carbon fibre rear diffuser, and carbon fibre roof panel, front access panel and front splitter.

Present at the event were chairman of Lotus Cars Malaysia, Datuk Ahmad Fuaad Kenali; Director of Lotus Cars Malaysia, Datuk Radzaif Mohamed and Head of Lotus Cars Malaysia, Tengku Djan Ley.

A handing over ceremony of a Lotus 3-Eleven was also held and was presented it to its new owner, Jeffry Talib.

 Lotus Evora Sport 410.


Finland's Nokian Tyres joins peer Michelin in exiting Russia

                COPENHAGEN: Finland's Nokian Tyres said on Tuesday it would start a "controlled exit" from the Russian market, having already scaled down the production of its Russian tyre plant after Moscow's invasion of Ukraine.

The announcement followed a similar move earlier on Tuesday by its French peer Michelin, which said it would hand over its Russian operations to local management.

Nokian Tyres, which used to make 80% of its passenger car tyres in neighbouring Russia, said it would evaluate different options for the exit.

"The process will be done with due consideration to local employees and legislation," it said in a statement.

The company has continued to increase capacity at its factories in Finland and in the United States to secure supply of its products, and has decided to invest in completely new capacity in Europe.

It announced earlier in the year that it had stopped investments into the Russian facility and started transferring production of selected key product families from Russia to its other factories.

"As part of the process, Nokian Tyres will record impairments of approximately €300 million (RM1.4bil)related to the Russian assets in the second quarter of 2022," the company said in a statement.

Taking the impairments into account, the value of its net assets in Russia and Belarus totalled €400 million (RM1.9bil) at the end of May, the company added.

Nokian Tyres has been operating in Russia since 2005. In 2021, the business area of Russia and Asia represented 20% of its net sales.


Mercedes-Benz Trucks masters 3D-printing of metal parts

                STUTTGART:   Mercedes-Benz Trucks has successfully created a strong metal component in original part quality for the first time using a 3D printer.

The printed spare part, a thermostat cover for truck and Unimog models from older model series, has passed quality checks at Mercedes-Benz, and is now celebrating its premiere.

Metal parts from the 3D printer excel with their high strength and thermal resistance, and the process is suitable for the production of mechanically and thermally stressed components required in small numbers such as making peripheral engine parts, in-engine parts and also parts in cooling systems, transmissions, axles or chassis.

In contrast to the Selective Laser Sintering (SLS) used in the plastics sector, 3D printing of metallic components uses Selective Laser Melting (SLM). In the case of the thermostat cover, for example, the powdered aluminium/silicon material is applied in individual layers and melted by an energy source - usually one or more lasers.

 The thermostat cover being shaped into the finished product.

When one layer is completed, a new layer of powder is applied automatically and the melting process is repeated. The process is repeated until a high-strength, three-dimensional aluminium component suitable for use in areas of high temperature has been produced. Thanks to the layered structure, the process also offers a level of geometrical freedom unmatched by any other production method.

Metallic components can be produced "at the touch of a button" with any geometry and in any numbers. The 3D replacement parts production began with rarely ordered aluminium parts. These excel with almost 100% density and greater purity than conventional die-cast aluminium parts. Apart from their high strength and hardness, as well as high dynamic resistance, their production requires no cost-intensive development work or procurement of special tools.

"The availability of spare parts during a workshop visit is essential for our customers – no matter how old the truck is, or where it is located. The added value of 3D printing technology is that it increases speed and flexibility, especially when producing spare and special parts. This gives us new possibilities for offering our customers spare parts rapidly and at attractive prices, even long after series production has ceased," said Mercedes-Benz Trucks marketing head Andreas Deuschle.

Mercedes-Benz Trucks said 3D metal printing could in future allow decentralised and much faster, local production directly in the worldwide Mercedes-Benz production locations.

Mercedes-Benz Trucks has been using 3D-printing technology to create high-quality plastic components, which is ideal for the production of smaller batches.


Ford launches Omnicraft brand to sell auto parts to fix competitors' vehicles

                DETROIT: Ford, in a bid for a piece of the rapidly growing global auto parts market, is launching a new brand called Omnicraft to sell parts to Ford dealers and independent repair shops to fix competitors' vehicles.

Omnicraft joins Ford's established Motorcraft which makes parts for Ford vehicles.

Frederiek Toney, president of Ford's customer service division, said the global business for automotive parts, which is now estimated at more than US$500 billion, and service will expand by 70 percent in the next six years or so.

Toney would not say how much of the global market Ford wants to capture, but said that in 10 years the company would be pleased if 10 percent to 15 percent of its parts sales were from Omnicraft.

Suppliers will make the parts, and Ford will sell them at a profit, but says they will be competitively priced, in part to attract independent repair shops as well as its own dealers.

Having the parts for non-Ford vehicles will allow dealers to increase repair and service business, as well as offer an opportunity to convince owners to look over new Ford cars and trucks while they are at the dealership.

At first, Omnicraft parts will be sold at Ford and Lincoln dealerships, of which there are 3,200 in the United States and 10,500 globally. Omnicraft will be active in Ford's major markets around the world, Toney said.

As the average age of vehicles increases, especially in mature markets like the United States and Europe, there is more of a need for auto parts, said Toney, "which is no secret. It behooves us to try to compete for the life cycle of ownership" and not to focus as Ford has on the early years of that cycle.

In the US market, the average age of a vehicle on the road is more than 11 years.


You can buy a new VW Beetle on Lazada for a limited time

                KUALA LUMPUR: The local Volkswagen distributor appears to be testing the waters through its initial partnership with e-commerce site Lazada Malaysia to sell 12 limited edition Beetles.

This is the first time a car maker and an e-commerce company is teaming up to sell cars online.

These limited edition Beetles will be sold at RM112,112, which is 18% off the recommended retail price. The offer is valid only in Peninsular Malaysia. The 12.12 limited edition Beetle comes in two designs – the “Herbie 53” in Pure White and White Silver and the “Hot Bug” in Tornado Red.

The Beetle comes with leather-wrapped multi-function steering wheel, a 5.8-inch "Composition Colour" touchscreen infotainment system with USB, Bluetooth and eight speakers; and seat trim covers in "Pepita" fabric.

Under the bonnet is a 1.2-litre turbocharged TSI engine producing 104hp and 175Nm. The car has a 7-speed DSG automatic transmission.

The sale is also in conjunction with Lazada’s Online Revolution Campaign, which will run from Dec 12-14.


Hyundai raids Bentley to turbo-charge Genesis luxury drive

                BEIJING: After poaching Bentley's design chief last year, Hyundai Motor Co is set to announce it has also secured the services of the luxury marque's exterior designer.

Korean Sangyup Lee is being brought in to work with Luc Donckerwolke, a Peruvian-born Belgian, to lead Hyundai's development of its Genesis premium car brand - a project driven by Chung Euisun, heir-apparent to the Hyundai Group.

Hyundai Motor, which sells some 8 million cars a year, sees limited growth unless it breaks into new markets, said a person close to the automaker. For the South Korean firm, that means premium cars and maybe pick-up trucks and parts of Southeast Asia.

 Lee

Lee says he is set to join Hyundai Motor as a vice president in charge of Hyundai and Genesis design, reporting to Donckerwolke, who will head up Hyundai's new Prestige Design Division, as well as being global head of Hyundai design.

Bentley spokesman Andrew Roberts confirmed Lee "has resigned from Bentley to take a position at another brand."

A Hyundai spokesman declined to comment.

Lee, 46, ran Bentley's exterior design since 2012 having previously worked at Volkswagen group's design center in California, and General Motors. He played a lead role in designing the Chevrolet Corvette, Stingray and Camaro - which featured in the "Transformers" movies - and Bentley's Bentayga SUV.

Lee told Reuters the ex-Bentley design duo aim to make Genesis a recognized global premium brand as new disruptive technologies such as autonomous, connected cars and alternative propulsion systems alter the auto design landscape.

"Because of these technologies, the car industry is about to hit a crossroads. The future is truly open," he said. "It's difficult to say if all the prestigious brands today will still be around in 10-20 years."

Lee, who says he was first approached by Hyundai two years ago, said he and Donckerwolke plan to design Genesis cars from a "clean sheet of paper".

"For decades, luxury brands such as Bentley, Aston Martin and Maserati have been about possession," he said. "In the future, as disruptive technologies kick in, luxury is going to be about experience. People are going to look for a special experience rather than something special to own."

As "mobility on demand" - the once futuristic concept of calling up a robot-car by smartphone - takes hold, Hyundai predicts many households in the United States, its biggest market, will no longer own two, or three cars, but spend more on one car, said the person close to the company.

"That means upscale cars," he said, adding "profitability-wise, the luxury segment is much better, too."

That fits with Chung's aspiration to not just drive the Genesis brand but elevate the Hyundai name to an elite global corporate league alongside the likes of BMW, Boeing and Apple.

"That's his legacy. ES (Euisun) wants to make Hyundai a truly globally recognized and respected company," the person said.

Chung was involved with hiring both Donckerwolke and Lee, as well as Manfred Fitzgerald, former brand and design director at Lamborghini who was named earlier this year as head of Genesis, said another person with knowledge of the matter.


EV owners now have more choices with Tenaga Nasional DC fast chargers along expressway

                KUALA LUMPUR: Tenaga Nasional Bhd launched three Electron DC fast charging stations on the North-South Expressway earlier this month.

In keeping with the theme, numerous automotive brands with electric models were invited to witness the opening ceremony on Feb 16.

Among them was China's Great Wall Motor's Ora Good Cat, which was represented by GWM Malaysia managing director Mike Cui.

Cui said his company was keen to work with companies like Tenaga Nasional to promote Malaysia's emerging electric vehicle (EV) market.

The 180kW DC chargers are located at the lay-bys in Ayer Keroh (northbound), Tapah (northbound), and Paka (northbound). Each charging station has two guns dispensing 90kW each.

Usage is free for this month with pricing to be announced on March 1.

Tenaga Nasional will be installing six more DC fast chargers along the highway by the end of this year.


Fuel prices: All up 1 sen

PETALING JAYA: It’s mid-week and you know the drill. Fuel prices will be up 1 sen across the board from tomorrow.

RON95 petrol sees a rise to RM2.17 from RM2.16 per litre while the price of RON97 petrol is up at RM2.47 per litre from RM2.46 per litre.

The price of diesel rose one sen from RM2.10 per litre previously to RM2.11 per litre.

The new prices take effect from Oct 19-25.


New Kia Rio 5-door tyke and Cerato Koup arrives

                KUALA LUMPUR: While NAZA KIA Malaysia, the official distributor of the brand in Malaysia, has launched its latest five-door Rio that’s priced on-the-road with GST and insurance at RM79,080 and comes with a five-year unlimited mileage warranty.

While priced the same as its predecessor, this B-segment contender comes equipped with a Gamma 1.4-litre multi-point injection engine (MPI) with dual overhead camshafts (DOHC) and continuous variable valve timing (CVVT) from KIA.

The engine produces 107bhp and 137Nm of torque, while mated to a four-speed automatic transmission with a shift-gate for manual-style gear shifting.

The Rio’s front grille and rear styling has been revised as it rolls on new 17-inch alloy wheels and comes equipped with projection-type headlamps, daytime running lights, automatic electric folding mirrors with LED signals and LED rear combination lamps.

Inside, the Rio gets a glossy black finishing on the centre and gear console, where it houses the push-start ignition and a six-speaker audio system with hands-free functionality, Bluetooth connectivity, Auxiliary and USB ports and 860MB for MP3 and phonebook storage.

Premium amenities include a sunroof, a supervision meter cluster with a trip computer, automatic air-conditioning with cluster ionizer and auto defog system and automatic wipers.

For safety, the Rio comes equipped with six airbags, anti-lock braking system (ABS), electronic brake distribution (EBD), brake assist system (BAS), vehicle stability management (VSM), electronic stability control (ESC), hill start assist control (HAC) and rear ISOFIX.

The New Rio 5-Door is available in Deep Blue, Signal Red, Clear White and Bright Silver.

“The New Rio 5-Door boasts a bold and distinctive personality, bringing the latest B-segment model smartly into line with the rest of Kia’s strikingly modern, design-led product range,” said Naza Kia Malaysia COO Datuk Syed Abdull Hafiz Syed Abu Bakar.

The Kia Rio was first launched in Malaysia in 2013, having sold more than 3,200 units to date, and will now play a significant part in sustaining their sales volume at 10,000 units per annum.

Meanwhile the Kia Cerato Koup has been previewed and gets a 1.6-litre turbo gasoline direct injection (GDI) engine that churns out 201bhp at 6,000rpm and 265Nm of torque from 1,750 to 4,500rpm, while mated to a six-speed automatic transmission – allowing it sprint to 100kph from standstill in 7.4sec.

Other features include HID headlamps and LED package, sunroof, frameless doors, ventilated driver’s seat, dual zone automatic climate controls with cluster ioniser, 4.2-inch TFT LCD Supervision cluster, smart welcome light system and the motor driven power steering (MDPS) with Flex Steer with a choice of Comfort / Normal / Sport steering feel.

While it's price has yet to be determined, the Cerato Koup comes equipped with safety features such as front and rear parking sensors, six airbags, VSM with ESC, ABS, EBD, BAS and HAC.


Aiways ready for Europe

                SHANGHAI: One of the eagerly awaited exhibits at the Geneva Motor Show, which will open its doors to the public on March 5 will be the European version of the all-electric U5 SUV, which is to be presented by Chinese manufacturer Aiways.

The presentation will take place a year after unveiling of the Chinese version of the SUV, and the new model is expected to be quite similar.

The Aiways U5 is powered by a 140kW motor, offering the equivalent of 190hp, and has an estimated range of close to 500 km. The plug-in is destined to go on sale in Europe in April.

The launch of the new vehicle will also mark the arrival of another Chinese car maker on the European market. Founded in 2017, Aiways aims to produce vehicles equipped with the latest technologies at affordable prices.

Alongside the U5 at the Geneva show, Aiways will also be presenting the RG Nathalie, an electric super sports car with a methanol fuel cell, and the Aiways U6ion, a new all-electric concept, which will be making its world premiere at the show.

The 90th Geneva Motor Show will run from March 5-15.


Prices of Honda HR-V and CR-V drop

The HR-V.
PETALING JAYA: Honda Malaysia has drop prices of the HR-V and CR-V by over RM1,000 with effect from May 1.

The new pricing of the 1.8-litre HR-V in S, E and V trims are RM101,100 (-RM1,100), 110,700 (-RM1,100) and RM121,000 (-RM1,200) respectively while the new pricing of CR-V 2.0 2WD will be RM141,500 (-RM1,400).

Honda Malaysia said the price changes were in response to the Government's "re-classification under the new customs tariff code" of two-wheel drive SUVs.

It said it would maintain the waiting period for all Honda models at 1 to 2 months even with the upcoming Raya festive period when car makers traditionally experience a sales surge as they throw in festive discounts or goodies.

It said it would be able to adjust production according to demand as it is using two production lines at its Malacca plant.

In a related development, the car maker said it is on track to achieve its sales target of 100,000 units and to maintain its No. 1 position in the non-national segment and No. 2 in overall Total Industry Volume this year.

It has achieved 35% of the sales target so far with more than 34,500 unit vehicles sold as of April 2017. On a year-on-year comparison for the same period, the sales achievement of first four months this year increased with more than 9,800 units sold which is 40% higher compared to 2016.

In terms of market share, Honda contributed 19.4% to the TIV as of March 2017 which was 5.1 points higher compared to the same period last year. Following the strong result from the 2 models launched in the first quarter, Honda Malaysia achieved an all-time high with a record of 20.5% market share for the first time in March 2017.

Honda Malaysia’s 7-seater crossover, the BR-V, sold more than 7,800 units and contributed 23% to the current overall sales. The City also contributed 23% to overall sales.

The 10th-generation Civic grabbed pole position in the C-segment and has sold more than 15,700 units since its launch in June last year. Currently, the Turbo variant of the Civic alone is sold at an average of 840 units per month, which makes up to 60% of the total number of Civic sold.

The Jazz and Accord have also secured top positions in their respective segment as of March, said Honda Malaysia.

It said it is organising two promotions this month: 'Nikmati Musim Bonus’ from May 1-31 and a Honda Nationwide Showroom Event on May 13 in conjunction with Mother’s Day. More details at www.honda.com.my.


Elderly driver crashes car into Seremban restaurant

                SEREMBAN: An elderly driver apparently stepped on the accelerator pedal by mistake and rammed his car into a restaurant in Seremban on Tuesday afternoon. No one was hurt in the incident.

The car smashed though tables and chairs and came to rest against a side wall at the back of the Sheng Seng Fatt restaurant, with its signal lights blinking.

The 82-year-old man sustained head injuries but was able to step out of the car. The unnamed man was taken to hospital for treatment.

Fortunately, the eatery was empty when the mishap took place as it was just opening up for business.

A video clip of the accident was made available by China Press.

Over the years, there have been numerous reports of accidents locally and abroad caused by elderly drivers who jump kerbs and crash into crowds, often with fatalities. As drivers age, they tend to suffer from slower reflexes and diminished alertness.

READ MORE:
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The cause is almost always due to the elderly driver hitting the accelerator instead of the brake pedal. Or they might have wanted to reverse but had forgotten to shift the gear lever from "D" to "R", leading to unintended consequences.

In Malaysia, Perodua's top-specced Myvi and Aruz (and top-specced Toyota Rush, which the Aruz is based on) comes with a safety feature that addresses pedal missteps. Called Pedal Mis-operation Control, the technology suppresses engine output when the driver accidentally stomps on the accelerator pedal (such as during low-speed parking). This reduces damage from incidents where the driver has panicked.

While elderly drivers have the lowest crash rates of all age groups in Malaysia, it is not so in developed countries with a sizeable ageing population.

A 2011 Carnegie Mellon University study revealed that in America, the fatality rate for drivers over 85 is four times higher than for teenagers, usually believed to be the most reckless category of drivers.

In Japan, for example, more than a quarter of the total fatal accidents in 2016 were caused by drivers over 65, according to police records.

A funeral service company in central Japan had in 2017 gone to the extent of offering a 15% discount to elderly drivers who give up their driving licences.

In the larger context, Malaysia still has one of highest road traffic accident rates in the world. It has the third highest fatality rate in Asia and Asean, behind Thailand and Vietnam. These fatality rates are similar to that of some African countries.

By comparison, the fatality rates in developed countries are all in single digits.

Generally, over half of all road traffic deaths usually involve adults aged between 15 and 44 years, who are often the family breadwinners.


Volvo rear-wheel drive makes comeback in its electric SUVs

                GOTHENBURG: Volvo has brought back rear-wheel drive after an absence of 25 years. It is now available in the fully electric XC40 Recharge and C40 Recharge.

The single motor with standard range is driven by a 175kW permanent magnet electric motor (e-motor), which provides a three per cent increase in power output over the outgoing 170kW single-motor front-wheel drive variant.

In the XC40 Recharge single motor, the same 69kWh battery capacity is carried over, but enhancements in cooling efficiency mean it can now deliver increased range and driving up to 460km, compared with 425km before. All ranges are according to the real-world WLTP cycle.

The range of the C40 Recharge single motor meanwhile improves up to 476km from 438km. A 10-80 per cent charge takes about 34 minutes using a 130kW DC public charger.

Volvo offers an option to upgrade power and range. Customers can opt for a larger battery coupled with a more powerful, 185kW permanent magnet e-motor on the rear axle.

This second new variant comes with an 82kWh battery pack which boosts range up to 515km for the XC40 Recharge single motor extended range and up to 533km for the C40 Recharge single motor extended range.

Here too, charging power has improved as the larger battery pack allows for charging at an updated top rate of 200kW DC (previously 150kW DC maximum), while a 10-80 per cent charge takes about 28 minutes.

The all-wheel drive variants also benefit from these updates, realising even more impressive range improvements. The previous set-up of two 150kW e-motors on the front and rear axles has been replaced by an in-house developed 183kW permanent magnet e-motor on the rear axle and a new 117kW asynchronous electric motor on the front axle.

This new configuration, paired with an 82kWh battery pack and overall efficiency improvements in battery cooling, means the XC40 Recharge Twin Motor AWD can now drive up to 500km on a single charge, a 62-km boost over the previous iteration. The range of the C40 Recharge Twin Motor AWD has improved up to 507km from 451km.

Exterior updates also help to improve efficiency where possible. For example, a new 19-inch alloy wheel for both XC40 and C40 Recharge not only boosts the overall look of the models, but it also helps to reduce drag through its aerodynamic design.

“These updates are another big step in our work towards becoming a fully electric car maker by 2030,” said Volvo chief operating officer and deputy chief executive Javier Varela.

“Range and charging times are new key factors for more and more of our customers, and these improvements make our fully electric models even more attractive than they already were.”

Elsewhere in the product portfolio, the plug-in hybrid models in Volvo's 90 and 60 Series get a new two-phase on-board charger that allows these models to charge at a faster rate (market dependant). The new on-board charger almost doubles the maximum charge capability on these cars to 6.4kW.


Hennessey Venom F5: Rise of a new speed demon

                HOUSTON: Hennessey Performance has unveiled the production version of its Venom F5 hypercar, ahead of customer deliveries in 2021 – the company’s 30th anniversary year.

The all-new 100% bespoke Venom F5 is built to deliver the world’s most exhilarating all-round driving experience and unparalleled performance. With its immense power, low weight and refined dynamics, the F5 boasts extraordinary handling and a visceral experience behind the wheel.

Priced at US$2.1 million (RM8.5mil), just 24 examples of the Venom F5 will be produced with each unique to its owner.

The heart of the car is the Hennessey-built 6.6-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine named "Fury", which delivers 1,817hp at 8,000rpm and packs 1,617Nm of torque.

Deploying this level of power in a car weighing just 1,360kg results in rapid acceleration: 0-100kph takes less than three seconds and it will smash a 0-200kph run in under five seconds.

As part of its validation, the rear-wheel drive F5 is targeting a top speed in excess of 500kph and will prove this with a transparent and independently verified top speed run in 2021.

The Venom F5 project is overseen by company founder and CEO John Hennessey, who has shaped every aspect of the car’s specification, design and development. John has combined knowledge from the company’s past 30 years of making fast cars faster with the highest levels of specialist engineering talent.

John Hennessey: “Our customers love speed, so we’re fired-up to push the boundaries of what’s possible to attempt the world’s fastest production car record, but the Venom F5 is about more than just speed and power. This car will handle superbly, quality is exceptional, there are more than 3,000 bespoke parts, materials are exquisite, everything is a fitting tribute to 30 years of the Hennessey brand.”

The car’s dynamics have been developed by Hennessey’s in-house dynamics guru – legendary US racing driver and vehicle set-up expert John "Heinrocket" Heinricy. The aim would be to achieve a world-class all-round driving experience on road and track.

The F5’s features ultra-lightweight carbon fibre monocoque that weights only 86kg and premium quality and bespoke construction.

The F5 will complete top speed testing in the first half of 2021 at the NASA Shuttle Landing Facility in Florida. Subsequent top speed runs will follow an intense period of real-world development at Hennessey’s own testing facility, plus the Circuit of The Americas – with Heinricy leading the development team and conducting the bulk of hands-on testing.

The F5 aims to exceed 500kph on a two-way validated speed run using a production specification car. The record attempt will be independently verified by the world-renowned experts from Racelogic using VBOX GPS data acquisition systems.

GPS data and uninterrupted video footage will also be made publicly available following the speed test.

Heart of the matter

The F5 has a rear-mid-mounted twin-turbocharged V8 engine that generates a power-to-weight ratio of 1.34hp-per-kg – the highest of any road car.

The Fury is a 90-degree push-rod cross-plane crank V8 engine that weighs 280kg. The bespoke unit features an all-new cast iron block and aluminium cylinder heads and runs an aggressive road cam providing a characteristic off-beat race car sound and feel. Each engine is hand-built with precision components crafted from high-grade metals including aluminium, titanium and Inconel. These include the crankshaft, pistons, valves and connecting rods.

A unique intake manifold design places the intercooler between the plenum and cylinder heads allowing the inlet air temperatures from the turbos to be greatly reduced before the charged air enters the combustion chamber, resulting in greater air density and enhanced power efficiency. The Fury’s multi-stage dry sump oil system uses Pennzoil 10w60 synthetic motor oil to deliver optimum performance right up to its 8,500rpm (in F5 mode) redline.

Additional power is delivered by two bespoke-built high-output precision ball-bearing turbochargers with 3D printed titanium compressor housings and 76mm (3-inch) billet aluminium compressor wheels. Set right at the rear end of the engine bay sits a bespoke stainless-steel and Inconel exhaust system, which is treated with Cerakote to protect the engine bay from excess heat.

Fury lives up to its name, the engine is loud, immensely powerful and offers abundant torque. The powertrain exhibits an extremely flat torque curve, meaning that the F5 produces high levels of pulling power from very low down in the rev range.

The F5 uses a specially-designed longitudinally-mounted semi-automatic gearbox with steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters. Having evaluated all potential options, the Hennessey team chose the only option capable of transferring the F5’s furious torque to the road – a single-clutch CIMA gearbox with seven ratios.

The set-up features close ratios at the lower end for rapid acceleration, with longer higher ratios to achieve the sought after top speed of over 500kph.

Lightweight and low

The monocoque is a huge part of what makes the F5 a great driver’s car, its torsional rigidity (52,000 newton meters per degree), providing a solid base to build from and proving essential for the car’s agility.

Compared to other hypercars, the F5 will offer "more bandwidth". Capable of being driven easily on sweeping rural roads or at speeds in excess of 500kph, it promises over 1.0G of acceleration and a furious sound that combines the thunderous V8 muscle car rumble with turbo whistles and pops.

Aerodynamic performance, which has been refined and evaluated extensively using computational fluid-dynamics (CFD), will be perfected by Heinricy in the real world with a series of "coast-down" tests. These run the car to a designated speed then coast while recording downforce and drag.

Alongside aerodynamics, significant consideration was given from the outset to both unsprung mass and achieving a low centre of gravity.

The F5 uses carbon ceramic brakes, forged aluminium wheels and lightweight Penske dampers to keep unsprung mass low, helping the car to feel nimble and ‘alive’.

The centre of gravity is kept low by positioning the powertrain deep within the car’s sub-structure. The Hennessey-built engine features a dry sump that enables the crank height to be kept very low to the ground.

With the engine delivering such immense power, one of the challenges for the Hennessey engineers is how best to transfer the car’s colossal forces through its rear wheels to the ground.

This is handled with precision by the car’s Motec controller, which will be calibrated for optimum power and traction control. In addition, five different drive modes (Sport, Track, Drag, Wet, F5) can be selected that alter the power delivery, traction and braking performance of the car. Only the top ‘F5’ mode will unlock the maximum available power.

The car’s huge 345/30 section 20-inch rear tyres provide a substantial contact patch to boost traction under acceleration and cornering.

At the front, the 265/35 section front tyres are mounted on 19-inch wheels. Michelin will test its Pilot Sport Cup 2 tyres to ensure they can withstand the speeds and loads that the car will generate.


2016 Geneva Motor Show: Volkswagen T-Cross Breeze concept

                GENEVA: The Volkswagen T-Cross Breeze concept car made its world premiere at the Geneva Motor Show, and is the first convertible SUV (sport utility vehicle) in the Polo class.

It offers a first look at a newly developed SUV model series for Volkswagen.

The four-seat T-Cross Breeze is equipped with an interactive cockpit and a next-generation ergonomic concept, where touch-sensitive surfaces and newly developed “by-wire” solutions replace conventional switches and buttons.

Volkswagen has implemented an ergonomic concept with almost no buttons on board the T-Cross Breeze.

Gesture control also forms an integral part of the operating interface.

It has a a 300W BeatsAudio sound system that makes open-top cruising an acoustic pleasure.

The sound system is compatible with the App-Connect suite of connectivity services, meaning that CarPlay (Apple), Android Auto (Google) or MirrorLink can be used to control the playlists of virtually all current smartphones via the T-Cross Breeze's HMI.

The concept car uses a 1.0-litre turbocharged and direct-injection TSI petrol engine that has a stop-start system and recuperation mode.

Its 110ps engine also makes 175Nm of torque from just 1,500 rpm.

The TSI engine drives the front wheels via a 7-speed DSG dual-clutch automatic gearbox.

The 1,250kg SUV convertible sprints from 0 to 100kph in just 10.3 seconds.

At a length of 4,133mm, the T-Cross Breeze is slightly longer than a CrossPolo.

It has 19-inch aluminium-alloy wheels.

The rear end of the convertible SUV, meanwhile, is dominated by the extremely wide trunklid with integrated LED taillights.

In the future, the Tiguan and Touareg will be joined by three more Volkswagen SUV models.

The market launch of the new Tiguan will be in April in Germany.

This will be followed by a new mid-size SUV for the US and China as well as the Touareg SUV.

Below the Tiguan, two new SUV models will make their debut: in the Golf class there will be an SUV that is similar to the T-Roc concept car, while the T-Cross Breeze moves into the Polo size range.

“The T-Cross Breeze is a teaser for the most compact sport utility vehicle that Volkswagen plans to make – and the nucleus of a new SUV and convertible design in the compact sector,” said Klaus Bischoff, Head of Design for Volkswagen.


Germany likely to miss e-cars target, says Merkel

                BERLIN: Chancellor Angela Merkel said that Germany will likely miss the government's target of bringing one million electric cars onto the roads by the end of the decade.

"As it looks at the moment, we will not achieve this goal," Merkel told fellow lawmakers of her centre-right CDU/CSU bloc.

She added, however, that a mass market breakthrough of demand for battery-powered cars could come very abruptly, as was the case with other innovations such as the introduction of the smartphone.

The sale of electric vehicles (EVs) has remained sluggish in Germany despite discounts introduced last year and granted to buyers of green cars. In 2016, there were less than 80,000 electric cars on German roads.

Experts say German consumers remain reluctant to buy EVs because of relatively high prices, limited driving range and restrictions due to the low number of charging stations.

In 2016, there were some 7,400 charging points in Europe's most populous country, according to electricity industry group BDEW.

The long time it takes to charge batteries is another disadvantage of electric cars compared to conventional cars with gasoline tanks that can be filled up in seconds.


July 14-20: RON97 petrol down 5 sen to RM4.75

                KUALA LUMPUR: The retail price of RON97 petrol will be lower by five sen at RM4.75 per litre, while the prices of RON95 petrol and diesel remain unchanged for the week from July 14 to July 20.

The Finance Ministry said in a statement today stated that the prices of RON95 petrol and diesel remained at RM2.05 per litre and RM2.15 per litre respectively.

"Even though the market price for RON95 and diesel has increased beyond the current ceiling price, their prices are maintained to protect consumers from global oil price increase.

The ministry said the new price is based on the weekly retail prices of petroleum products in accordance with the Automatic Pricing Mechanism formula.


Mercedes-Benz to increase Aston Martin stake to up to 20% by 2023

                STUTTGART: Daimler unit Mercedes-Benz is to lift its stake in Britain’s Aston Martin to up to 20% by 2023, making it one of the struggling British carmaker’s largest shareholders, Aston said on Tuesday.

Aston Martin, popular for being James Bond’s carmaker of choice, has suffered a torrid time since it floated two years ago, with its shares losing two-thirds of their value this year.

The 107-year-old firm hired Tobias Moers, former CEO of Mercedes-AMG, as its new boss from August.

Aston said the increase in Mercedes-Benz’s stake, from 2.6% currently, would take place in several stages as part of a wider issue of 250 million shares at 50 pence each.

The stock issued to the German group will have a maximum value of £286 million (RM1.6bil), it said.

The deal will see an existing supply agreement between the two firms, in place since 2013, expanded to give Aston Martin access to key Mercedes’ technology, including hybrid and electric drive systems.

“We take another major step forward as our long-term partnership with Mercedes-Benz AG moves to another level, with them becoming one of the company’s largest shareholders,” said Aston’s chairman and biggest shareholder Lawrence Stroll.

The German firm will get the right to nominate one non-executive director to Aston Martin’s board after its first shareholding increase, the London-listed firm said.

Aston, which has started deliveries of its first sport utility vehicle, the DBX, said on Tuesday it swung into an adjusted core loss of £29 million (RM157mil) in the third quarter, versus a profit of £43 million (RM233mil) last year.

Revenue in the period nearly halved to £124 million (RM672mil) , it said.

Aston Martin is targeting annual capex of £250 million to £300 million (between RM1.4bil and RM1.6bil) per year between 2021 and 2025.

It envisages production volumes of about 10,000 units, revenues of about 2 billion £ and adjusted core profit of 500 million £ by financial years 2024 or 2025.


Ferrari vows 'even stronger' 2023 with four new models

                MILAN: A procession of new models will continue to boost earnings at Ferrari, the Italian luxury sports car maker said on Thursday, as it promised "even stronger" results this year after a 16% jump in 2022 core earnings.

Deliveries jumped almost a fifth to 13,221 cars last year, led by the established Portofino M and the SF90 family models, as well as the 296 GTB and 812 Competizione. China saw the strongest growth, with shipments jumping 73% to 1,552 cars.

Ferrari said it would launch four models this year, adding to the new 390,000 euro (RM1.8mil) Purosangue four-seater which will start being delivered to customers in the second quarter.

"Our order book is robust, it covers all this year and good part of the next one," chief executive Benedetto Vigna said.

"Purosangue ordering has been extraordinarily high; well beyond expectations."

Third Bridge analyst Orwa Mohamad said the new Purosangue would increase Ferrari's customer base in 2023.

"Ferrari reported a strong performance with attractive profit margins and one of the most significant volume increases over the last 10-12 years," he said.

Road to electric

The carmaker's Milan-listed shares rose as much as 7.4% after its results were published and closed up 7.3%.

According to a regulatory filing, BlackRock, the world's largest asset manager, now has a 5.5% stake in Ferrari, which is controlled by Exor, the holding company of Italy's Agnelli family.

Vigna said the company, known for its roaring petrol engines, was "fully on track" with its electrification plans, which envisage the launch of its first fully electric car in 2025.

"After June last year we've seen a progression of results, both on the product side and on the development of our manufacturing facility," he said.

Ferrari's fully electric cars will be fitted with an acoustic system to help them deliver the brand's distinctive noise, according to a patent the company filed last month in the United States seen by Reuters.

The company, which unveiled its business plan to 2026 in June, forecast adjusted earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA) of 2.13-2.18 billion euros in 2023, up from last year's 1.773 billion euros.

RBC analyst Tom Narayan said he had feared a conservative stance on 2023 due to currency headwinds and raw material prices.

"But today's guidance raise suggests management has good confidence in 2023 mix and margin," he said.

Fourth-quarter adjusted EBITDA rose 18% to 469 million euros, beating analysts' expectations.

"These figures provide the base for an even stronger 2023, fuelled by persistently high demand for our products worldwide," Vigna said.

The company also announced on Thursday it would pay all its employees a performance bonus of up to 13,500 euros (RM62,216) each, up from 12,000 euros (RM55,304) last year.


BMW's German plants to start making EVs by 2022

                MUNICH: BMW has announced that all of its manufacturing plants in Germany will be directed at building electric vehicles (EVs) from 2022 onwards.

At present, the German carmaker's plant in Leipzig, Germany, is the only one producing BMW EVs in the zee country since 2013.

Soon, the company's Dingolfing plant will soon be churning out the upcoming fully-electric iNext and will also be responsible for producing up to 500,000 electric motors by 2022.

The Munich plant will also start production of the all-electric i4 - a four-door gran coupe, and its lines have been undergoing changes to accommodate it.

Finally, by 2022, the Regensburg plant will also join the EV production club, but a model has yet to be named with rumours pointing to the new 7 Series.

The Leipzig and Regensburg plants will be manufacturing battery modules and high-voltage batteries for current and future models as demand climbs.


Dutch online store lets you build your own DIY electric car

                UTRECHT: Netherlands-based online store Bol.com is offering customers a quirky, do-it-yourself electric car which can be assembled from 223 mainly household articles sold on the company's internet sales platform.

The "Winkelwagen" - the name is Dutch for shopping trolley - is more of a fun car for two adults than a genuine electric vehicle, but the company says it is fully operational and has a range of 35km

Bol.com said the electric runabout marks the 18th anniversary of the company which is the biggest online retailer in the Netherlands.

The Bol range covers 15 million different items, none of which have anything to do with cars. The list of parts for the Winkelwagen includes many everyday items which go together to make up the blue and white vehicle.

The chassis consists of a children's bed and the bonnet is actually a wheelbarrow tray. The pedals are made from steel kitchen spatulas and the front grille is a stainless steel cooking grid.

Passengers sit on office chairs, using dog leads as safety belts. Among the other items used are disco lighting, dumbbells, gym mats, a rubbish bin and even a toilet brush.

Power for the Winkelwagen comes from a motor of the type used to power electric wheelchairs and mobility scooters for senior citizens.

The Winkelwagen weighs 322kg, measures 2.72 metres from front to rear and is 1.47 metres wide. Performance figures for the car have not been released.


BMW recalls 110,000 cars in Japan over Takata air bags

                MUNICH: BMW today recalled about 110,000 cars in Japan over potentially faulty air bag inflators made by Takata Corp, as part of the auto industry's largest ever global recall.

The German automaker recalled 44 models including its 116i and 118i hatchbacks and the 320i sedan to replace passenger-side air bags made by the parts maker, according to a filing to Japan's transport ministry. Affected vehicles were produced between 2004 and 2012.

Defective Takata air bags have been linked to at least 14 deaths and 150 injuries worldwide as the ammonium nitrate-based propellant used in its inflators has a tendency to explode following prolonged exposure to hot, humid conditions, spraying metal shrapnel.

Today's recall comes after Japan's transport ministry in May ordered automakers to recall an additional 7 million vehicles in Japan equipped with Takata air bag inflators which do not contain a drying agent, in phases by 2019, following an expanded recall by US authorities.


Lexus LC 500h hybrid to make world premiere in Geneva

                GENEVA: Lexus will unveil the hybrid version of its all-new LC luxury coupe at the 2016 Geneva Motor Show.

The LC 500h is equipped with Lexus’ next generation hybrid powertrain, the Lexus Multi Stage Hybrid System, promising enhanced driving pleasure, more performance, and greater efficiency.

The LC was first revealed at the 2016 North America International Auto Show. Its styling, performance and craftsmanship position the vehicle as Lexus’ flagship coupe. The LC also uses Lexus’ new architecture that is said to offer enhanced dynamic capability.

Inspired by the acclaimed LF-LC concept that debuted in 2012, the LC represents a shift in Lexus’ engineering processes and design ideologies, and marks the beginning of a new phase for the Lexus brand. Its outstanding visual appeal has been widely praised following the Detroit reveal, and recognised by professionals who granted LC EyesOn Design awards for Production Car and Best Designed Interior at the 2016 NAIAS.

Lexus will also display the LF-FC concept in Geneva. Revealed at the 2015 Tokyo Motor Show, the LF-FC is powered by a high output fuel cell system. It also features an advanced touchless human machine interface as well as automated driving technologies.


GAC Honda to absorb Honda Automobile (China)

                GUANGZHOU: GAC Honda Automobile Co., Ltd. (GAC Honda), a joint venture company of Honda in China, announced that it will absorb its wholly owned subsidiary, Honda Automobile (China), Co., Ltd., effective April 1, 2020.

As a result of this merger, Honda Automobile (China) will be renamed as the Guangzhou Development District Factory of GAC Honda.

Honda Automobile (China) was established in 2003 as China’s first automobile production plant dedicated exclusively for export.

Striving to advance its production operation to be more flexible and efficient and to improve its business structure, Honda Automobile (China) was made a wholly owned subsidiary in 2018, and now will be absorbed by GAC Honda.

Under the new name, Guangzhou Development District Factory, the plant will begin producing Accord for the China domestic market starting in April, while continuing to produce and export the City model for the Mexican market.

With the addition of the 50,000-unit production capacity of Guangzhou Development District Factory, the total production capacity of GAC Honda will be 770,000 units a year.

GAC Honda will continue expanding the joy of mobility through advancing its production system by increasing efficiency and flexibility and by delivering products which provide value to its customers in a timely manner.


Drunk-driver detectors for cars mandated in US infrastructure bill

                WASHINGTON: New cars will be required to have technology to detect drunk drivers and a system to keep children from being accidentally left in vehicles on hot days under a series of long-sought safety measures included in the infrastructure bill awaiting a vote in the US Senate.

Other provisions included in the 2,702-page bill are a mandate for automatic emergency braking and crash avoidance systems for new cars, and rear guards for semitrailer trucks to keep the passenger compartments of cars from being crushed in rear-impact collisions.

Jason Levine, executive director of the Center for Auto Safety, which lobbies for more stringent auto safety rules, applauded the inclusion of the measures.

"There is little question our nation is long overdue for critical updates to our infrastructure especially when it comes to vehicle safety and the rising tide of preventable car crash deaths," he said.

Although people in the US drove less in 2020 because of the pandemic, an estimated 38,680 people died in traffic crashes, which is the highest number of annual deaths since 2007, according to a release from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration in June.

The number of US traffic deaths rose by 7.2% from the previous year, despite the 13.2% decrease in vehicle miles travelled.

Backers say the anti-drunk driving provisions in the measure would drastically reduce the number of deaths that occur on US roads.

"This is the most significant rule making in NHTSA's history," Stephanie Manning, government affairs officer for Mothers Against Drunk Driving, said.

"Ever year we wait, thousands of people will die."

The provision mirrors legislation that Representative Debbie Dingell has championed for several years. It orders NHTSA to study the feasibility of various technologies and establish a final rule within three years mandating some form of anti-drunk driving technology.

Drunk drivers

Among the systems that have been studied are ones that monitor a driver for signs of distracted, impaired or fatigued driving.

One uses sensors that scan drivers' eyes for signs that are similar to ones that police officers look for when they suspect impairment during traffic stops.

"We can't wait any longer to make our roads safer from drunk driving accidents," Dingell, a Michigan Democrat, said in a statement.

"The inclusion of my bill in the bipartisan infrastructure package will help incentivise the development and implementation of technology to stop drunk driving once and for all and save lives."

A measure to combat deaths of children inadvertently left in a car on hot days calls for a "door logic" alert that reminds a driver that a rear door had been opened and closed prior to the engine starting.

The alert tells the driver when the engine is turned off to check the back seat.

Janette Fennell, president of Kids and Car Safety, said she wished the bill had gone further to prevent the accidental deaths of children.

Since 1990, she said, more than 1,000 children had died in hot cars.

"The Senate version is only requesting a reminder system that does not detect anything," Fennell said. "It does not let you know if there is an actual child in the back seat."

More needed

Senator Ed Markey, a Massachusetts Democrat who has been advocating for more auto safety legislation, said that variations of bills he has introduced are included in the package, including ones related to seat-back failure, distracted driving and recalls, but he will still be pushing for more.

"We must still fight to improve this bill before it becomes law," Markey said.

"That's why I will be offering several amendments to strengthen my existing safety provisions and remove dangerous proposals that could undermine some of the rules we already have on the books."

Any changes to the bill will be difficult and require broad agreement. Amendments will need 60 votes to pass.

Cathy Chase, president of Advocates for Highway and Auto Safety, said it is important for Congress to address auto safety, but she said she wishes the bipartisan infrastructure measure would have gone even further.

"The past year-and-a-half has been exceptionally deadly for motorists and other road users," Chase said in a statement.

"This alarming fatal upward trend must be met with the advancement of available, game-changing safety technologies and other upgrades."


Helmet airbag among Autoliv's innovations to be showcased at EICMA

                STOCKHOLM/MILAN: Autoliv, Inc. is looking beyond the car and developing a series of products to significantly improve motorcycle safety.

The concepts include the world's first motorcycle helmet with an integrated airbag for enhanced head protection in collaboration with AIROH, airbags for protective clothing, and a motorcycle airbag.

The innovations will be presented at the EICMA trade fair in Milan, Italy on Nov 8-13.

Instead of focusing on one specific safety product, Autoliv Research has identified the types of severe injuries that are most frequently sustained by motorcycle riders.

The injury mechanisms were then reproduced in virtual and physical testing.

Based on insights derived from the tests, two sets of new safety solutions were developed: on-vehicle- and on-rider safety solutions.

"To substantially reduce the number of motorcycle rider injuries and fatalities, we need to take a holistic approach where we investigate several combined countermeasures," said Autoliv president and CEO Mikael Bratt.

"We have always developed our products based on real world data to ensure the benefit for the end user. We intend to use the same approach to other mobility modes, like motorcycle riders, to save more lives."

Together with Italian helmet manufacturer AIROH, Autoliv has studied and developed a concept of a motorcycle helmet with an integrated airbag.

Autoliv's testing shows that the peak linear head acceleration and head injury risk in an impact can be significantly reduced by using airbag technology.

In addition, Autoliv is focused on improving chest and shoulder protection for motorcycle riders, primarily to protect a rider that is ejected from a motorcycle.

Consequently, Autoliv is developing inflators and airbags for high-quality protective clothing such as rider jackets.

Extensive virtual simulations and crash tests have shown that an airbag in a frontal collision can reduce injury risk to head, neck, and chest.

Autoliv has developed an airbag mounted on the vehicle frame which is deployed in milliseconds during a crash.


Mercedes-Benz E 300 Exclusive Line: Luxury and power

                The Mercedes-Benz E-Class luxury saloon has always been a top choice for the well-heeled businessman or corporate chieftain looking for a ride that underlines success and prestige, as well as delivering a plush ride and luxurious comfort.

Early last year, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia rolled out three new locally assembled refreshed variants to the E-Class range, namely the E 350 AMG Line (RM399,888); E 300 Exclusive Line (RM379,888) and E 200 Sportstyle Avantgarde (RM329,888).

The refreshed E-Class trio received quite a number of updates in looks, performance and safety features.

Our test drive unit here is the E 300 Exclusive Line which replaces the previous E 250 Exclusive Line, and is only RM20,000 cheaper than the E 350 AMG Line.

Compared with the higher-priced E 350 AMG Line, the E 300 Exclusive Line gets less power (lower by 41hp and 30Nm of torque) from the same turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine, mated to a nine-speed torque converter automatic transmission.

You still get plenty of muscle from the E 300 Exclusive Line, which produces 258hp and 370Nm of torque, and very quick acceleration (0 to 100kph sprint in 6.2 seconds).

Looks and features

Unlike the other two refreshed E-Class saloon variants which carry sportier looks with the big central star emblem in the radiator grille, the E 300 Exclusive Line carries a more stately and elegant look with a classic Mercedes radiator grille, and the iconic three-pointed star mounted on the bonnet.

This is known locally as the "uncle" or "towkay (business owner)" look.

In the cabin, the elegant look is emphasised by black Nappa leather upholstery, chromed door handles, and glossy wood trim and stitched leather surfaces.

A classic clock in the centre console lends a charming old school contrast to the dual screen display for the digital cockpit, and modern tech such as COMAND Online infotainment system with touchpad controller.

You also get the convenience of using finger swipes on the touch sensitive steering wheel buttons to scroll through the Navigation, radio, media, telephone, and vehicle settings as well as options for Mercedes-Benz Apps, Link, Apple Carplay and Android Auto.

This E-Class has lots of upscale features including a panoramic powered sliding sunroof, Burmester audio system, wireless charging pad for smartphones, powered tailgate and powered front seats with three memory settings.

For charging mobile devices, we found three USB ports (including two USB ports as well as a SD card slot in the centre storage box between the front seats).

Storage options include front seatback pockets, door pockets and a rear armrest with integrated cup holders and compartment.

Rear air-conditioning vents help to keep passengers cool and there is a huge 540-litre boot for those golf bags.

Safety

As expected of an E-Class, there is a barnful of premium safety and driving assistance technology including a 360-degree camera system (very useful during parking in tight spaces), Adaptive Highbeam Assist Plus, Active Brake Assist, Active Parking Assist, Pre-Safe protective measures, and a tyre pressure monitoring system.

You also get run-flat tyres and Multibeam LED headlamps.

The E 300 Exclusive Line comes with a Lane Tracking package which includes Blind Spot Assist and Lane Keeping Assist to ensure the driver does not drift into other traffic.

Drive

Running on Pirelli Cinturato P7 high performance runflat tyres sized 245/40 (front) and 275/35 (rear) wrapped around 19-inch wheels, the E 300 Exclusive Line provides a silky-smooth, refined ride quality especially in Comfort setting.

Ride comfort is top-notch, and we loved that discomfort from driving over potholes, bumps and irregularities on bad roads was marvellously cushioned.

The E 300 Exclusive Line is fitted with Agility Control suspension with selective damping system, which is designed to strike a good balance between ride comfort and sporty handling via shock absorbers that vary damping firmness according to driving dynamics - for example, damping is increased with more vehicle body roll.

We also like the convenience of switching drive modes via the steering column-mounted gear shifter stalk.

We enjoyed the muscle and responsiveness of the turbocharged powertrain, and in Sport or Sport+ settings, there is a low, throaty growl (quite muted thanks to the high quality sound insulation) when we stepped harder on the accelerator pedal.

The steering is light, accurate and responsive and we found the E 300 Exclusive Line to be impressively agile and nimble when driven at some speed in the corners.

The front sports seats bolster our bodies well.

Verdict

The E 300 Exclusive Line delivers what one expects from an E-Class luxury saloon - a beautiful, well-appointed interior loaded with high-tech driving assistance systems, plenty of leg and head room, a big boot as well as a refined, buttery smooth ride.

At the same time, belying its stately and elegant looks, it offers plenty of brawn and a bit of sporty handling when you want some speed in getting to your destination.

Mercedes-Benz E 300 Exclusive Line

Engine: 1,991cc, four-cylinder turbocharged
Maximum power: 258hp at 5,800rpm
Maximum torque: 370Nm at 1,800 to 4,000rpm
Transmission: 9G-Tronic nine-speed torque converter automatic
Features: Agility Control suspension and Dynamic Select (Eco, Comfort, Sport, Sport +, Individual), Multibeam LED headlamps, 19-inch 10-spoke light-alloy wheels, Nappa leather upholstery, panoramic sliding sunroof, automatic climate control, sunblind in rear doors, powered adjustable front seats with memory function, 4-way lumbar support, wireless charging pad for smartphones, powered bootlid, Burmester audio system, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto
Safety features: 360-degree camera system, Adaptive Highbeam Assist Plus, Active Brake Assist, Active Parking Assist, Pre-Safe safety systems, Tyre pressure monitoring system, run-flat tyres, Blind Spot Assist and Lane Keeping Assist,
Price (OTR without insurance): RM379,888


Mitsubishi to unveil Ground Tourer Concept in Paris

                TOKYO: Mitsubishi Motors will unveil the all-new Ground Tourer Concept at the 2016 Paris Motor Show in October.

An up-market SUV, the Ground Tourer Concept is aimed to be the latest expression of Mitsubishi Motors' design ambitions, expressed through four elements: Augmented Possibilities, Functional Beauty, Solid Thrust and Japanese Craftsmanship.

The newest concept further expresses Mitsubishi Motors' plug-in hybrid electric (PHEV) flagship technology. The vehicle is a showcase of advanced driving technologies using the latest Japanese design trends and quality. It's a car designed for effortless cruising in all driving conditions on and off road, while accommodating passengers in a quiet, comfortable and luxuriously crafted interior.


Auto Shanghai 2019: Lotus Type 130 - first British full electric hypercar

                SHANGHAI: At Auto Shanghai 2019, Lotus gave a glimpse of its upcoming first all-new production car since 2008, the Type 130 - which is also set to be the first British full electric hypercar.

The all-new car will be revealed, together with the full details of this technical tour de force, in London, the birthplace of Lotus, later this year.

CEO Phil Popham said: “Type 130 will be the most dynamically accomplished Lotus in our history. It marks a turning point for our brand and is a showcase of what we are capable of and what is to come from Lotus.”


Hyundai reveals more details on Prophecy concept EV

                SEOUL: Hyundai Motor has revealed more details of its Prophecy Concept electric vehicle (EV) in a walk-around video with the company's chief design officer Luc Donckerwolke who explains some of the key features inside and outside the vehicle.

The Prophecy, which had its digital premiere last month, showcases ideas and features Hyundai will develop in the future.

Using inspiration from vintage cars of the 1920s and 30s, the Prophecy brings with it a smooth, coupe-like design with sweeping curves and smooth lines to set it apart from the angular 45 - another of the South Korean carmaker's concept car that debuted at the IAA in 2019.

Like 45, the Prophecy inherits the design language of pixel lights while its dynamic shape and rear spoiler give it a sporty appearance and its propeller-shaped wheels help to reduce air resistance to give it a sense of sensuous sportiness.

Inside, the cabin is all about relaxation thanks to the use of dark colours and natural materials in an attempt to create a completely new type of in-car experience.

No steering wheel - just joysticks

Making the Prophecy unique is its steering mechanism with dual joysticks located left and right from the driver - one on the centre console and another on the door trim.

This allows for a more spacious and comfortable seating position while driving that frees up more space on the dashboard for other features.

In addition, 90% of the vehicle’s functions can be controlled via buttons on the joysticks for an ergonomic setup that's known as the Intuitive Human Interface that increases passenger safety and visual freedom.

Optimised seating position through the Smart Posture Care System

The new Smart Posture Care System (SPCS) allows drivers to enjoy an optimised seating position based on their individual physical characteristics.

The driver can either adjust the seat manually according to their preferences or allow the car to suggest a “smart” seating position for them.

In “smart” mode, the driver enters their height, seated height, and weight, and the car automatically adjusts to the driver’s individual physical condition.

The SPCS controls the seat, steering wheel, mirror, and Head-Up Display, and is based on medically-verified information.

Relax mode: turning a vehicle into an entertainment space

The infotainment system is integrated into a large screen stretching across the entire front of the vehicle’s interior.

When not driving, the car can be used as an entertainment space by switching into Relax Mode.

In Relax Mode, the seats recline and the dashboard swivels upwards, creating the optimal seating position from which to enjoy the content shown on the display.

Because of the lack of a steering wheel, the occupants have virtually zero visual obstacles – they see only the horizontal pillar-to-pillar display and the wing-shaped dashboard.

As autonomous driving technology progresses, the potential for vehicles to be used as relaxation spaces will grow in importance.

Cleaning the air both inside and outside the vehicle

Not only is Prophecy a zero-emissions electric vehicles – it actually cleans the air.

This is thanks to a unique air filtration system with a fine dust sensor built into the vehicle.

When particle levels inside the vehicle get too high, the air system activates, taking in fresh air from the outside, filtering it for purity, and circulating clean air throughout the vehicle.

Moreover, this does not just happen when the car is driving – this EV continues to clean the air, even when it is idling or charging, and even if no one is inside.

In most cars, the driver or passenger rolls down the window when they want a breath of fresh air but with this EV's air is always fresh which means the dual-pane glass windows always stay up.

Once the air inside gets stale, fresh air is taken in via intake valves at the front of the vehicle.

When no fresh air inside the car is needed, the filtered air is pumped back into the atmosphere via two outlets at the bottom of the side doors. This system is significantly more energy-efficient than a traditional ventilation system.

Platform and powertrain

After 45, the Prophecy is the second Hyundai vehicle to be built using the Electric Global Modular Platform or “E-GMP” – Hyundai’s first dedicated EV platform.

Electric powertrains are much more compact than their internal-combustion counterparts, meaning there is no need for a wide front hood or a bulky centre console.

This allows automotive designers to reclaim the space for passenger use, and to reimagine the range of in-car experiences.


US faces tough choices in 2022 on mines for electric-vehicle metals

                WASHINGTON: The United States has enough reserves of lithium, copper and other metals to build millions of its own electric vehicles (EVs), but rising opposition to new mines may force the country to rely on imports and delay efforts to electrify the nation's automobiles.

The tension underscores the dilemma facing the United States going into 2022, a year in which US policymakers hope to see groundbreakings on a raft of EV manufacturing facilities from Ford Motor Co, General Motors Co and others.

President Joe Biden signaled earlier this year he prefers to rely on allies for EV metals, part of a strategy designed to placate environmentalists. That means US automakers will find themselves competing with international rivals for supply amid the global rush to electrification.

US metals imports, though, could boost greenhouse gas emissions by increasing shipping from overseas mines to processing facilities, most of which are in Asia, thus abrogating part of the rationale behind building more EVs.

A Reuters analysis found that proposed US mining projects could produce enough copper to build more than 6 million EVs, enough lithium to build more than 2 million EVs and enough nickel to build more than 60,000 EVs.

The estimates are based on the volume of minerals used to make a Tesla Inc Model 3, the world's most popular EV, according to a study by Benchmark Mineral Intelligence. Other types of EV use different amounts, depending on design.

"If we don't start getting some mining projects under construction this coming year, then we will not have the raw materials domestically to support EV manufacturing," said James Calaway, executive chairman of ioneer Ltd.

Biden in August issued an executive order aimed at making half of all new vehicles sold in 2030 electric.

Washington so far has offered confusing guidance to its mining industry. For example, the US Fish and Wildlife Service is poised to label a rare flower found on a handful of acres at ioneer's Nevada lithium mine site as endangered, a step that could impede permitting. At the same time, the US Department of Energy is deciding whether to lend the company more than US$300 million to build the mine.

Opposition

Other proposed mines face opposition from indigenous groups, ranchers or environmentalists, underscoring the broader tension in the United States as resistance to living near a mine clashes with the potential of EVs to mitigate climate change.

In early 2022, federal judges are set to rule in two separate cases as to whether mine approvals granted by former President Donald Trump to Lithium Americas Corp and Rio Tinto Plc should be reversed.

In Minnesota, state regulators are weighing whether permits issued to PolyMet Mining Corp, which is controlled by mining giant Glencore Plc, should be revoked or reissued. PolyMet's mine would become a major nickel producer just as the only US nickel mine is set to close by 2025.

In North Carolina, Piedmont Lithium Inc's failure to keep local landowners abreast of its development plans may cost the company necessary local zoning approvals.

Biden himself took steps in October to block Antofagasta Plc's Twin Metals copper and nickel mine project in Minnesota for 20 years. The proposed underground mine would have become a major US supplier of copper for EVs, which use twice as much of the red metal as vehicles with internal combustion engines.

Despite that step, the White House has been working to highlight its support for certain EV mining projects, including Lithium Americas' proposed lithium mine - despite Native American opposition - and a California geothermal lithium project funded in part by GM.

The administration also touted a Tesla lithium supply deal with Piedmont, even though that arrangement was put permanently on hold earlier this year.

Many of the mining projects have strong support from labour unions, a constituency that the president has worked to cultivate and one sometimes at odds with environmental groups hoping to block new mines.

Biden's EV goal "means good-paying union jobs for working people in responsible mining operations that will both supply battery minerals and protect the environment," said Tom Conway, head of the United Steelworkers, a union that represents some US miners.


Road tax can be renewed at Puspakom outlets starting tomorrow

                KUALA LUMPUR: The renewal of road tax for private vehicles can now be done at a Computerized Vehicle Inspection Centre or Puspakom beginning tomorrow.

The Road Transport Department (JPJ) said today that the initiative would be carried out in stages involving 39 Puspakom centres in the peninsula.

"The early phase of the implementation of road tax renewals will only involve privately-owned vehicles either individually owned or registered under a company.

"Later, the initiative will be expanded to services like renewal of motorcycle road tax and e-hailing vehicles. We expect to do this in November.

"Prior to this, all road tax renewal transactions at Puspakom only involved goods vehicles weighing under 7,500kg (decontrolled) which we had begun doing since last year," said the department.

According to the statement, the initiative to add more channels for the renewal of road tax was to improve on the department delivery service to make it more efficient and effective and also to give the public more access to JPJ services.

"The public wishing to make online road tax renewals at Puspakom will have to make online appointments at https://lkm-appoinment.puspakom.com.my. Walk-ins are not allowed in view of the high Covid-19 cases in circulation.

"All transactions at Puspakom counters are on cash term only,” said the JPJ statement.

For more information, the public can call Puspakom’s customer service line at 03-5101 7000 or e-mail to customerservice@puspakom.com.my or on Puspakom’s official page or private message Puspakom at its official Facebook page or via ‘live chat’ at www.puspakom.com.my.


Pakistan's auto industry draws fire

Pakistani drivers caught in a traffic jam in Islamabad. Car makers in the country have been accused of failing to produce cars to the required safety standards. — Reuters
ISLAMABAD: Pakistan's car industry came under fire in the Senate, which claims car makers  were assembling vehicles that were unsafe and raising prices indiscriminately.

Winding up discussion on the decline in car sales in the country, Minister for Parliamentary Affairs Azam Swati told the house that new rules were being drafted to punish the manufacturers of unsafe vehicles.

He said the companies would be held responsible for any fatal accidents arising from air bags that fail to open and not carrying out other standard safety safeguards. "They will have to pay multi-million rupees in fine.”

The minister said that under the new auto policy unveiled by the government, 18 new car making plants had been set up, five of which were onstream now. He said Chinese and Korean companies were among the players.

Swati noted that the demand-supply factor determined market prices and the government could not fix the rates. He, however, said the prices would drop as production exceeded demand.

Earlier, Senator Atiq Ahmad Shaikh alleged a cartel was controlling Pakistan's car industry and that poor quality vehicles were being assembled.

He said the companies involved kept on increasing car prices and failed to meet their commitments under which downstream factories were to be set up. The sector could not attract new investments because of the cartel, he added.

Senator Nauman Wazir said it was strange that while Pakistan produced the most inexpensive tractors, so-called "locally manufactured" cars were the most expensive.

He said most of the car parts were imported, adding that a number of incidents had been reported in which air bags did not open in case of accidents.

He said no crash tests were conducted and unsafe cars were threatening the lives of Pakistanis. — Dawn


Ford CEO Hackett said to be reviewing future products, plants, countries

                DETROIT: Ford Motor Co chief executive Jim Hackett is reviewing the automaker's operations in India and other markets, as well as Ford's future product programs including plans to build a self-driving commercial vehicle in 2021, according to company officials and other sources familiar with that review.

Hackett, who took over as CEO in May, has told investors he is working on a 100-day review of Ford's operations but has so far provided few details of the process, except to indicate that it is looking at the automakers' luxury vehicle strategy, the future of its small vehicles and investments in emerging markets.

Ford chief financial officer Bob Shanks said the review covers a range of issues, including Ford's strategy for India.

"We have a lot of work to do (as) we address issues of how to fix India," Shanks said. "Everything is on the table."

General Motors Co in May said it would stop selling cars in India but continue to produce vehicles there for export. Shanks said no decisions have been made and noted that Ford has a larger business in India than GM did. "We are very cognizant that will be the third-largest market in the world," he said.

 Hackett.

"Some big decisions will be made," Shanks said, but he cautioned Ford may not disclose all those decisions at the end of the 100-day review.

Hackett is addressing challenges that have contributed to a nearly 8 percent decline in Ford's share price this year.

The review of the Lincoln luxury brand includes whether current plans will meet former CEO Mark Fields' ambitious targets for growth and revenue, people familiar with the process said.

Ford has set a target of putting a self-driving shuttle into commercial ride-sharing fleets by 2021. Hackett is reviewing the investment and timing for that project, the sources said.

Hackett is also assessing whether to reduce and consolidate production of models such as the Fiesta subcompact and two midsized sedans that are built in multiple locations around the world, but are experiencing slowing demand.

One proposal would shift production of the next-generation Mondeo mid-sized sedan from Europe to Mexico, where it would share an assembly line with its sibling, the Ford Fusion, avoiding the cost of retooling two plants.

Shortly after he took charge, Hackett approved a proposal to shift production of the next-generation Focus for North America from Mexico to China, saving the company an estimated $500 million by consolidating two factories into one.

Hackett also is said to be questioning a plan to build at least half a dozen future models, including replacements for the Ford Mustang and Explorer and Lincoln Continental, on a new flexible platform that is designed to accommodate both front- and rear-wheel-drive vehicles.


Sony and Honda unveil Afeela EV in latest challenge to Tesla

                LAS VEGAS: Sony Honda Mobility Inc. said its electric vehicle will launch under the brand afeela, the latest debut in a field already crowded by earlier entrants such as Tesla Inc.

Cars bearing the new marque will capitalise on the expertise of Sony Group Corp. and Honda Motor Co., Sony Honda Mobility chief executive officer Yasuhide Mizuno said, unveiling the venture’s first prototype during Sony’s CES press conference here on Wednesday.

The new company is also collaborating with Qualcomm Inc. and Epic Games Inc. to enable 5G connectivity and entertainment.

The joint venture’s first car to roll out on the CES stage was a sedan featuring 45 sensors, including cameras, radar and ultrasonic sensors. It is "a software-defined vehicle,” Qualcomm CEO Cristiano Amon said during the presentation.

Sony said it would keep the afeela cars constantly updated, and Amon said his company’s Snapdragon Digital Chassis would be designed to enable that.

Tesla Inc. has set the standard for connected vehicle experiences, through the regular addition of games and other enhancements over the course of owning one of its vehicles.

Sony, Honda and many European automakers like Volkswagen AG are now collaborating to combine car manufacturing capabilities with electronics firms’ knowledge of entertainment, networking and sensors to shorten development times for smart electric vehicles.

Epic Games will work with Sony Honda to help "deliver connected automotive experiences that lead the way not only in visual communication and safety but also entertainment,” Epic Games Chief Technology Officer Kim Libreri said at the event.

The joint venture between Sony and Honda was made official in October, promising to deliver premium EVs in North America and Japan starting in 2026.


Transport Ministry tells JPJ to clear backlog of driving licence candidates

                PETALING JAYA: The Road Transport Department (JPJ) has been instructed to clear the backlog of candidates waiting to obtain driving licences, says Datuk Seri Dr Wee Ka Siong.

The Transport Minister said that the ministry and JPJ would conduct on-ground monitoring to listen to stakeholders and the public to solve the issue.

Dr Wee visited Berjaya Driving Institute in Johor Baru today.

"As of July 2022, within a period of seven months, the number of Berjaya's students is almost equal to the total number of students for the period of 2018. This shows an increase of 42% of students who have registered this year compared to 2018.

"Meanwhile, the number of instructors at the institution decreased from 215 in 2020 to only 185 in 2022 currently," he said in a Facebook post on Thursday.

He added that in Johor alone, there were 3,639 people waiting to take driving classes and only 1,518 certified driving instructors.

"Those planning to take the driver's licence test have to wait two to three months," said Dr Wee, adding that the same situation was happening in the Klang Valley.

"On Wednesday (Aug 17), I instructed the JPJ to resolve the issue of candidates piling up or 'backlog' immediately when chairing the post-Cabinet meeting of the Transport Ministry," he said.


Airbus-backed tournament unveils first electric racing aircraft

A prototype of an electric-powered aircraft set to be flown in the Air Race E-series, on display during the first day of the 16th Dubai Air Show at Dubai World Central in Dubai on Nov 17. The Dubai Air Show is the biggest aerospace event in the Middle East, Asia and Africa and runs Nov 17 - 21. — Bloomberg
DUBAI: An Airbus-backed air racing tournament unveiled an electric-powered sports aircraft on Sunday, billed as the world’s first, as the European planemaker seeks to boost its green aerospace technology.

Several companies, including US ride-hailing company Uber Technologies Inc, are working on electric-powered flying cars, amid increasing concerns about the environmental impact of fossil-fuel intensive air travel.

Last month, Airbus rival Boeing announced a partnership with automaker Volkswagen’s sports car brand, Porsche, to develop a concept electric flying vehicle capable of transporting people in urban environments.

Air Race E said the aircraft, called White Lightning and unveiled at the Dubai Air Show, will be manufactured by UK-based Condor Aviation.

The aircraft will use an electric motor that will carry it at flight speeds of around 482kph on a tight 5km circuit, just 10 metres above the ground.

“The racing series will provide a test bed for innovation and accelerate the journey towards electric commercial travel,” said Air Race E chief executive Jeff Walkman.

Lithium batteries installed under the fuselage of the plane will provide power for five minutes of high intensity racing and around 10 minutes of reserve flying at reduced power, the firm said.

Air Race E is aiming to be the world’s first all-electric airplane competition when it launches its inaugural series of international races in 2020. It expects to this week name eight teams for its first race.


Japan Display aims to bring some panel production back from China

                TOKYO: Japan Display Inc aims to bring some automotive panel production back to Japan after the novel coronavirus outbreak disrupted its supply chain in China, a company executive said today.

Under the plan, Japan Display would boost production at its plant in Tottori, western Japan, to supply panels to major Japanese automakers, Kazutaka Nagaoka, chief manufacturing officer, said in an interview.

“We could have spared opportunity losses if we had our production in Japan,” Nagaoka said, referring to production disruptions at its Chinese plant due to a coronavirus lockdown this year.

Nagaoka declined to give a timeframe or an amount for the investment in the production shift, but said the company hoped to make a final decision on the plan as quickly as possible.

READ MORE: Japan wants manufacturing back from China, but breaking up supply chains is hard to do

The world’s largest automotive screen maker produces panel cells in Japan and ships most them to its Chinese plant, where backlights, connectors and other parts are added — a labour-intensive process that requires constant manual work.

Nagaoka said advancements in machinery had helped automate the back-end processes, reducing labour costs even if they are done in Japan.

Its automaker clients also want their panels produced at automated lines for quality control reasons, he said.

Japan Display, which earns about 60% of its revenue from Apple, is aiming to beef up its automotive display business to reduce its dependence on the saturated smartphone market.

The company has agreed a deal to receive up to 110.8 billion yen (RM4.3bil) from Japanese investment manager Ichigo Asset Management, a critical bailout for the company that has long been dependant on publicly funded rescues.


Volkswagen Golf Estate makes world premiere

                WOLFSBURG: The new VW Golf Estate has made its world debut, offering even more space, dynamism and digital gear than before.

The greater amounts of available space, comprehensive standard features and new drive types with mild hybrid and twin dosing technology represent pioneering characteristics.

The new Estate is now 66mm longer as such, legroom in the rear has been significantly enhanced and luggage compartment volume also increased.

The new Golf Estate R-Line.

The new drive systems offer pure efficiency. Take the eTSI with 48V technology and 7- speed dual clutch gearbox, for example: a 48V belt-driven starter-alternator, 48V lithium-ion battery and the TSI engine merge to form a new mild hybrid drive system.

The benefits of the new eTSI include a significantly lower consumption, as the Golf Estate switches off the turbocharged direct-injection petrol engine whenever possible to coast along without generating any local emissions.

For this reason, all eTSI engines have been paired up with an automatic dual clutch gearbox (7-speed DSG) as standard.

The new Golf Alltrack as the all-wheel drive Golf Estate with SUV genes is also making its debut.

The new Golf Alltrack.

In Germany pre-sales for the Golf Estate have started, while other European countries will gradually follow.

“As a compact, spacious model, the Golf Estate has already impressed more than 3 million customers since its debut in 1993. The latest generation inspires with its beautiful design and, with the most advanced cockpit in its segment, takes a giant step towards digitalisation.

In addition, it scores high marks with efficient drives, maximum safety and significantly more space – the perfect family car. And those who are looking for something more sporty will love the new Golf Alltrack.

As a crossover between the Golf Estate and an SUV, it offers the perfect combination of space, innovation and fun even off paved roads thanks to its all-wheel drive.“ said Member of the Volkswagen Passenger Cars Board of Management responsible for Sales, Jürgen Stackmann.


Ferrari fits new Purosangue SUV with trademark V12 roar

                MILAN: Ferrari said it first ever sport utility vehicle, the Purosangue, will be powered by its gas-guzzling 12-cylinder trademark engine, in a break from the Italian carmaker's recent focus on less polluting models.

"We've tested several options, it was clear that the V12, for the performance and driving experience it could provide, was the right option for the market," Ferrari chief executive Benedetto Vigna said on Wednesday.

Vigna, a former tech industry chief who will present his first comprehensive business plan for Ferrari on June 16, would not be drawn on the price or production figures for the Purosangue (Thoroughbred), which will be launched within months.

Ferrari earlier presented first quarter results which showed a 12% rise in its core earnings as demand for its sports cars remained strong despite global political turmoil.

Fitting the Purosangue with its most powerful engine is a break from Ferrari's recent strategy, which has focused on V8 and V6-hybrid models, such as in the recently unveiled 296 GTS, with V12 cars accounting for 17% of total shipments last year.

Vigna said Ferrari would be driven by a desire to maintain its exclusivity hallmark with Purosangue, which will bring the group into the lucrative SUV segment, going head to head with rivals such as Volkswagen's Lamborghini.

Lamboghini's Urus SUV is fitted with a V8 bi-turbo engine, while the company has said it would power its next sports car, scheduled next year, with a V12 hybrid powertrain.

Vigna took charge of Ferrari last September, with a task to take a brand synonymous with roaring combustion engines into the new era of silent and cleaner electric mobility.

As part of this plan Ferrari has already presented four hybrid models and promised a full electric car for 2025.

Ferrari's adjusted earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortization (EBITDA) were 423 million euros in January to March, helped by the collection of advances on the Daytona SP3, one of Ferrari's latest models.

The result broadly matched analyst expectations of 425 million euros, according to a Reuters poll, and Ferrari confirmed its outlook for the year.

"These results were sustained by a strong net order intake, which continued firmly over the first three months of the year: today the order book already covers well into 2023 and most of our models are sold out," Vigna said in a statement.

However, Ferrari shares closed down 5.57%, the worst performers in Italy's blue-chip basket, with traders noting broader market concern over luxury companies, and attention now focusing on next month's capital markets day.

Vigna noted Ferrari had not been immune to supply chain issues and inflation but said it had responded by raising prices late last year, and also with its pricing policy on new models.


Hyundai to invest US$18bil in S. Korean EV industry by 2030

                SEOUL: Hyundai Motor Group said today it planned to invest 24 trillion won (US$18bil/RM80bil) in South Korea's electric vehicle (EV) industry through 2030, bolstering its presence in a segment that is set to dominate long-term global automotive demand.

The investment plan by the group, which includes Hyundai Motor Co, Kia Corp and Hyundai Mobis Co Ltd, came as President Yoon Suk Yeol attended a groundbreaking ceremony for Kia's first designated electric vehicle plant.

The new plant, the auto group's first in the country in almost three decades, is set to begin production in 2025.

The auto group, which houses luxury brand Genesis, besides Hyundai and Kia, also announced that it plans to expand annual EV production in Korea to 1.51 million units and global volume to 3.64 million units by 2030.

Kia said in a statement that it would invest about 1 trillion won for the plant and plans to produce 150,000 units in the first full year, with the potential to expand in line with future market conditions.

Yoon pledged comprehensive measures in the first half of this year to help South Korea's auto industry better prepare for transformation to the "vehicles of the future", the presidential office said in a statement.

It added that the government would expand tax benefits for domestic EV facility investment for a five-fold boost in production capacity by 2030.

The South Korean auto group said last year it would invest more than US$10 billion in the United States by 2025 to enhance collaboration with US firms in advanced technology.

The US investment plan includes its US$5.5 billion investment for new electric vehicle and battery facilities in the state of Georgia.


After long journey, Fiat Chrysler and PSA seal merger to become Stellantis

                MILAN: Fiat Chrysler and PSA sealed their long-awaited merger on Saturday to create Stellantis, the world’s fourth-largest auto group with deep enough pockets to fund the shift to electric driving and take on bigger rivals Toyota and Volkswagen.

It took over a year for the Italian-American and French automakers to finalise the US$52 billion deal, during which the global economy was upended by the Covid-19 pandemic. They first announced plans to merge in October 2019, to create a group with annual sales of around 8.1 million vehicles.

“The merger between Peugeot S.A. and Fiat Chrysler Automobiles N.V. that will lead the path to the creation of Stellantis N.V. became effective today,” the two automakers said in a statement on Saturday.

Shares in Stellantis, which will be headed by current PSA chief executive Carlos Tavares, will start trading in Milan and Paris on Monday, and in New York on Tuesday.

Now analysts and investors are turning their focus to how Tavares plans to address the huge challenges facing the group – from excess production capacity to a woeful performance in China.

Tavares will hold his first press conference as Stellantis CEO on Tuesday, after ringing NYSE’s bell with chairman John Elkann.

FCA and PSA have said Stellantis can cut annual costs by over €5 billion without plant closures, and investors will be keen for more details on how it will do this.

Marco Santino, a partner at consultants Oliver Wyman, said he expected Tavares to disclose the outlines of his action plan soon, but without divulging too many details at first.

“He has proven to be the kind of person who prefers action to words, so I don’t think he will make loud statements or try to over-sell targets,” he said.

Like all global automakers, Stellantis needs to invest billions in the years ahead to transform its vehicle range for the electric era.

But other pressing tasks loom, including reviving the group’s lagging fortunes in China, rationalising its huge global empire and addressing massive overcapacity.

“It will be a step by step process, also to allow the market to better appreciate every single move. I don’t think we will have all the details before one year,” Santino said.

FCA CEO Mike Manley - who will head Stellantis’ key North American operations - has said 40% of the carmaker’s expected synergies would come from convergence of platforms and powertrains and from optimising R&D investments, 35% from savings on purchases, and another 7% from savings on sales operations and general expenses.


Japan and France to explore cooperation on auto technology

                TOKYO: Japan and France today said they had agreed to share information and explore deeper cooperation in next-generation auto technology, a move that could also be aimed at repairing the strained alliance between Nissan and Renault.

In a statement, Japan’s trade ministry said the two governments had agreed to start talks to bolster possible cooperation in areas such as automated driving, batteries and electric vehicles (EV).

French president Emmanuel Macron had in June called for further synergies and alliances to strengthen the Renault-Nissan partnership in a global market.

“The Renault-Nissan alliance is a jewel in the industry. We created a giant which we must not only preserve but develop synergies and alliances to strengthen it in the face of international competition.”

Nissan had in response said there was no quick fix to strained relations with Renault SA , saying inequality between the partners could unravel their two-decade-old automaking alliance.