Strong year-on-year performance for myTukar and Genie Malaysia

                KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia’s fastest growing digital used car ecosystem - myTukar and Genie Malaysia - have recorded strong sustainable growth.

Commemorating its fifth anniversary this year, myTukar started its humble beginnings in a small Glenmarie office in 2018.

It has grown to be leading online used car retailer with a 33-branch strong operation nationwide, together with two state-of-the-art reconditioning centres and five workshops with after sales capabilities – a feat unique in the used car industry.

myTukar’s steady expansion nationwide is part of the company’s active goal to provide trustworthy, hassle-free and best digital experience when buying and selling, financing, insuring and servicing used cars.

It only just began retail last year and has now sold nearly 6,000 cars to end-customers.

Together with its wholesale business, it has now sold over 100,000 cars worth over RM3bil via its 2,600-dealership network.

Chairman and founder of myTukar, Fong Hon Sum who has 20 years in the auto retailing industry said: “I have seen its many major pain points. When I first started this business, I had a simple dream: to change and revolutionise the used car industry in Malaysia.

“Hence, the creation of “myTukar”, a platform to inject transparency, seamlessness and peace of mind in an industry where there was little trust, and to leverage technology to digitalise an age-old, opaque and poorly regulated industry. I am very proud of how myTukarians have changed and will continue to change the industry, every single day.”

myTukar and sister company Genie Financial Services Malaysia are also dedicated to being key contributors to the economy with job creation in Malaysia.

During the pandemic, myTukar and Genie Malaysia’s strong financials not only allowed them to sustain their headcount, but also saw sizable expansion across the board from 175 to 1,300 local employees, providing job security to Malaysians in a heavily impacted industry.

CEO of myTukar, Derrick Eng said he started myTukar alongside Fong with a commitment to providing seamless accessibility to all Malaysians.

“I am proud to see how far we have come –converting our many crises into strengths.

“From a workforce of 175 before Covid-19 to about 1,300 employees today, we have strategically hired, trained and upskilled our employees throughout the pandemic.

“The success we have achieved today is down to the truly extraordinary, passionate but quiet execution of the myTukar family. More importantly, we are very focused on laying the foundations of a sustainable Malaysian tech company, proudly built, and led by Malaysians for the underserved local used car community,” he said.

Genie Malaysia is also on track to becoming the fastest growing used car fintech provider in the country, as it celebrates its first anniversary of its operations this year with an outstanding loan book of RM315mil and zero NPL, while also measuring positive EBITDA.

A prudent cost structure allows them to be profitable from day one.

Currently, Genie Malaysia processes over 3,000 applications as it offers dealers and used car consumers with seamless, AI-enabled credit scoring and digitised lending.

CEO of Genie Malaysia, Simon Chan said after being in the auto financing industry for 25 years, it became his personal mission to drive financial inclusion and empowerment.

“Starting Genie Malaysia was an opportunity to address a large but underserved used car financing segment in Malaysia. We have been able to harness technology, big data and AI to effectively offer financial services to dealers and consumers who are otherwise unbanked.

“We have been able to make lending more credit-worthy and easier for ordinary people who have genuine needs to own cars. Genie Malaysia is backed by financing facilities from at least one leading domestic bank, which is a huge validation of our business model, and we are open to partnerships that will help banks serve the underserved in a better and safer manner,” he said.

myTukar and Genie Malaysia have grown to be significant contributors towards the Malaysian community as well as economy, bolstered by its stronghold of local partners and investors.

This includes Sime Darby, DRB-Hicom, approximately 100 local dealer shareholder partners.

These successful partnerships cement myTukar and Genie Malaysia not just as leaders within the used car ecosystem in Malaysia, but reaffirm their position as proud Malaysian start-ups.

October also marks the third anniversary of Carro’s investment into myTukar and Malaysia.

Chief Financial Officer of Carro, Ernest Chew said: “As a Malaysian myself, it has been remarkable to witness our local team build a sustainable digital used car ecosystem in the country. Beyond just helping people buy and sell cars, we want to be a digital ecosystem of services that improves financeability and supports the entire car ownership experience.

“It is incredibly important for us to have positive EBITDA; Carro has recorded positive EBITDA as a group and EBITDA break even in three other ASEAN countries in the previous quarter,” he said.

For details, visit https://mytukar.com/ and https://www.geniefinancing.com/


Brunei revises vehicle registration, licence renewal procedures

                BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN: Brunei's Land Transport Department (JPD) has announced changes to the way vehicles are registered and licences are to be renewed amid a Covid-19 outbreak.

Land transport director Rozaly Saidon told reporters on Monday the JPD has been facilitating new vehicle registrations with the Brunei Automobile Dealers Association (BATA).

“A representative from BATA will submit registration forms and documents through a dropbox at the Ministry of Transport and Infocommunications (MTIC).

“As of Sept 13, the department increased its capacity in vehicle registration from 70 a week to 250,” he said.

The director also announced the re-opening of registration for used vehicles and change in vehicle ownership starting today (Monday).

The director said, “In the first phase, requests have to be made through vehicle agencies according to a quota set by the department.”

The process will involve submission of photos of the vehicles, documents such as bank statement and car insurances by representatives of vehicle agents via dropbox.

Each request will be charged B$5 (around RM16) with payments made online via the BIBD mobile app.

The director said used vehicle inspections are no longer conducted by the JPD but they still need to be checked at Vehicle Inspection Services (VIS) centres, which include Bayu Ilham, Bengkel Kereta Berakas Sdn Bhd (BKB), JYM Sdn Bhd in Kuala Belait and B-TOP for motorcycles.

After the submission at the dropbox, Notice of Inspections (NOI) will be sent by the JPD via e-mail.

“Those interested in using suspended vehicle registration numbers can submit their request and relevant documents via the dropbox. No walk-in services are available during this phase,” he said.

On delays of vehicle licence (VL) and driving licence (DL) renewals, the director said online portal GOVBN, TransportBN and Darussalam line 123 (TD123) have received over 1,000 requests per day.

“Between Aug 1 and Sept 19, 38,467 requests and 24,872 texts were sent to applicants,” Rozaly said.

He added that JPD has a backlog of 4,718 requests from applicants.

According to the director, the JPD received 1,353 requests for licence renewals (VL and DL) from Aug 1 to Sept 19, 2021, while 1,217 texts were sent to successful applicants, 717 licences sent through mail and 445 collected from post offices.

“However, there are applications which cannot be processed. Some 136 requests via SMS could not be processed as applicants failed to include relevant information, 87 applicants failed to include their mobile phone numbers, 44 applicants only included their home phone numbers and five applicants submitted wrong mobile phone numbers,” said the director.

JPD said a confirmation SMS will be sent three days after the payment has been made and applicants can collect their licences at post offices or via mail after seven to 14 days.

Applicants are encouraged to make payment online through the TransportBN app or online portal www.gov.bn using debit or credit card.

The director reminded the public to show proof of their renewal when collecting their licences by showing a receipt or SMS confirmation. —Borneo Bulletin


Sainz joining Ferrari in 2021 as Vettel's replacement

                LONDON: Spaniard Carlos Sainz will race for Ferrari in 2021 and 2022 as replacement for four times world champion Sebastian Vettel alongside Charles Leclerc, the Italian Formula One team said in a statement on Thursday.

Sainz, 25, has been at McLaren since last year and Ferrari will be his fourth team after his 2015 debut with Italy-based Toro Rosso. His father and namesake is a two times world rally champion.

“With five seasons already behind him, Carlos has proved to be very talented and has shown that he has the technical ability and the right attributes to make him an ideal fit with our family,” said team principal Mattia Binotto.


Rallying: Dakar dozen for Peterhansel, Price claims bike crown

                RO CUARTO (Argentina): France’s Dakar Rally legend Stephane Peterhansel celebrated his 12th title on Saturday as motorbike rider Toby Price became the first Australian to etch his name on the gruelling event’s roll of honour.

The 50-year-old Peterhansel avoided any late drama to safely cross the finish line of the closing 13th stage at Rio Cuarto to give French manufacturer Peugeot their first win since 1990.

“It’s extraordinary. The pressure was very high, but we came through,” said the Dakar’s all-time record winner.
“Some of my wins count more than others, but this one’s definitely in the top 3.”

 Price. - EPA

Price, 28, who came third last year on his debut, dominated the two-week bike race after lifting the second stage last week.

“Being the first Australian to win the Dakar is just insane,” Price said.

“I don’t know what to say, I don’t know what to think... I’m in shock, I never would’ve thought I could win this race in my second participation.

“This is incredible for my family, my friends and my fans back in Australia!“

The rider from New South Wales finished fourth on the final day to wrap up the title and supply his KTM team with a 15th consecutive crown.

He had a tidy 39-minute cushion over his Slovakian teammate Stefan Svitko with Chilean Pablo Quintanilla at 48min in third.

While he was savouring opening his Dakar account, Peterhansel was adding a new chapter to his love affair with the iconic event he first competed in back in 1989.

He made what ultimately proved to be a decisive step towards the 2016 title on Thursday’s drive from Belen to La Rioja.

With his Peugeot teammate and arch rival Carlos Sainz coming to a grinding halt 30km from the line, he ended the day a full one hour clear of last year’s winner Nasser Al-Attiyah behind the wheel of a MINI.

 Locals waving at Peugeot's Peterhansel and co-driver Jean Paul Cottretafter at the end of Stage 13 of the Rally Dakar 2016 between Villa Carlos Paz and Rosario, Argentina, on Jan 16. - AFP

After safely coming in ninth behind final stage winner Sebastien Loeb, Peterhansel took the title with over half an hour to spare from Qatari Al-Attiyah.

For Peugeot this was a superb achievement coming just two years after their return to the iconic event following a 26-year absence.

South African Giniel De Villiers driving a Toyota took third over an hour adrift.

Peterhansel won the first of his six titles on two wheels in 1991 and his 11th victory behind the wheel of a Mini in 2013.

“It’s too early to think about the future,” he said.

“One thing’s for sure, getting the same number of victories on a bike and in a car was the last big goal in my career. Now that it’s done, I don’t think there are many things left to motivate me.”

The quads category was won for the third time by Marcos Patronelli with Dutchman Gerard de Rooy annexing his second truck title.


Santa's riding a Dodge Hellcat Redeye this Christmas Eve

                DETROIT: For this year's holiday season, Dodge has transformed a crimson Hellcat Redeye into a jolly sleigh.

Yesterday, Dodge published their first holiday video of the season featuring a Hellcat redesigned with some yuletide flair and piloted by a Santa who clearly lifts weights. Looks like the reindeer may be getting a vacation this year.

The ripped elves in Santa's workshop may have created the fastest sleigh-ride ever — and this muscled, tattooed Saint Nick is far from disappointed. The doors are gone, the windshield has been cut in half, and all the tires have been replaced by silver runners that will make delivering toys a breeze.

As a tribute to the reindeer that the Hellcat replaced, the Redeye emblem is sporting a set of antlers fit for the holidays.

Beside Santa's new souped-up sleigh three other festive models will be on special this Black Friday: the Dodge Challenger, Charger, and Durango, all of which are at least "America's Fastest" in their respective model categories, even the newly bulked up Santa may be the strongest the world has ever seen.

It's probably a good idea to be nice this year; after all, with his sleigh's new 797-horsepower engine, it looks like this bulked-up Kris Kringle may even have time to do a second trip.


Mazda reveals lightweight concepts at 2015 SEMA

LAS VEGAS: Mazda revealed two design concepts at the SEMA Show in Las Vegas, based on its all-new 2016 MX-5 Miata — MX-5 Spyder and MX-5 Speedster — demonstrating two vastly different takes on lightweight, open-air performance.

“Both MX-5 Spyder and MX-5 Speedster are uncompromising designs that highlight the core strengths of MX-5,” said Ken Saward, design manager, Mazda North American Operations.

MX-5 Spyder is a sophisticated interpretation of the classic vintage roadster.

Its bikini top was developed by ASC – American Sunroof Corp with the fabric supplied by Haartz.

Other highlights include its specially formulated Mercury Silver paint color, carbon fiber aero kit, grille intake and body toneau cover and lightweight Yokohama ADVAN Racing RS II 17-inch wheels.

Its interior is adorned in Spinneybeck “PRIMA” natural leather, lending a sense of vintage motoring from behind the wheel.

As for the MX-5 Speedster, it pares the roadster back to the essentials for an unadulterated, wind-in-the-hair driving experience, evocative of the open-top sports cars of the 1950s — even going to far as to eschew a windshield for a deflector.

In the same vein, the Speedster has custom 16-inch RAYS Extreme Gram Lights wheels, benefitting MX-5 with less unsprung weight.

MX-5 Speedster finished in a new concept color called Blue Ether.

Other details on MX-5 Speedster include an adjustable coilover suspension, which lowers it by 30mm compared with the production-car specifications, a Racing Beat center-mount exhaust, an interior retrimmed in Alcantara, carbon fiber Mu-Len Delta seats created exclusively for MX-5 and carbon fiber doors.

In all, the lighter-weight materials have helped contribute to a weight loss of more than 113kg, with MX-5 Speedster weighing 943kg.

MX-5 Spyder

Engine: SKYACTIV-G 2.0L DOHC 16-valve 4-cylinder with VVT
Wheels: Custom Yokohama ADVAN Racing RS II 17 x 8 (42mm offset)
Brakes: Front Brembo four-piston calipers with vented rotors
Tyres: Yokohama ADVAN A048 225/45/17
Shocks Springs: Adjustable coil-overs
Weight: 1043kg
Exterior Color: Mercury Silver
Interior: Seats, doors, trimmed in Spinneybeck “PRIMA” natural leather

MX-5 Speedster

Engine: SKYACTIV-G 2.0L DOHC 16-valve 4-cylinder with VVT
Wheels: Custom RAYS 57 Extreme Gram Lights 16 x 8 (45mm offset)
Brakes: Front Brembo four-piston calipers with vented rotors
Tyres: Kumho Ecsta V710 225/50/16
Shocks Springs: K&W adjustable coilover suspension
Weight: 943kg
Exterior Color: Blue Ether
Seats: Lightweight seats developed by Mu-Len Delta Seat exclusively for the 2016 MX-5, constructed of Carbon Fiber and trimmed in black Alcantara


Lynk & Co confirms electrified models exclusively for Europe

                GOTHENBURG: Lynk & Co is one of those Chinese brands owned by parent company Geely that most consumers in Europe won't have heard about yet, but that's likely to change before too long.

That's because the company with the same owner as Volvo has revealed a plug-in hybrid variant of its 01 crossover at the just concluded Beijing Motor Show, while at the same time outlining an electrification plan to include Europe, which it refers to as the "New Energy Strategy."

The company is looking to launch a couple of models in Europe to begin with, which will be the flagship 01 and the sportier and more compact 02 that's a crossover designed to rival the Mercedes-Benz GLA. What's perhaps more significant, although not particularly surprising for a Chinese brand in the current climate, is that Lynk & Co has announced that all its models available in Europe will be electrified.

Lynk & Co's senior vice president, Alain Visser, insists that it's always been in the company's strategy to only offer electrified powertrains in European markets when sales get under way.

"There will be no diesel, no manual and no ICE [internal combustion engine] Lynk & Co derivatives in Europe," says Visser. "When we start production in 2019, and sales starting from 2020, in Amsterdam, Barcelona, Berlin, Brussels and London, our range will be all about new energy."

Mats Fagerhag, the vice president of parent company Geely, explained the rollout strategy further by revealing that "the new energy plan for Lynk & Co will be implemented in stages with the goal of following PHEV [plug-in hybrid electric vehicle] with HEV [hybrid electric vehicle] and then BEV [battery electric vehicle]."

It's probably no surprise either that both the 01 and 02 models from Lynk & Co are built using the same platform as the new Volvo XC40, which was designed to be able to support fully electrified powertrains as well as petrols, diesels and hybrids.

The plug-in hybrid powertrains the company will use to start with will couple an electric motor and battery system to a new 1.5-litre three-cylinder petrol engine, and the 01 PHEV is quoted as offering a fuel economy rating of 1.4 l/100km and a range of up to 50km on electric power only.


Prodrive produces Hummingbird - the world’s lightest folding bike

                LONDON: Prodrive has brought the Hummingbird lightweight folding bike concept to reality.

The British motorsport and advanced technology business has refined the design and re-engineered key components to ready the bike for volume production.

The Hummingbird weighs 6.7kg, making it the lightest folding bike in the world, thanks mainly to its carbon frame, carbon forks and seat post. The frame was designed and is being manufactured by Prodrive Composites in Milton Keynes with further parts production and final assembly carried out at Prodrive’s headquarters in Banbury.

Hummingbird has a unique and simple folding mechanism in which the trailing arm pivots around the crank. Unlike other folding bikes, this ensures the chain always remains in tension, even when fully folded. It also allows the bike to be wheeled along the ground when folded.

The bike was conceived by Petre Craciun, a London-based designer and keen cyclist. He found that existing folding bikes on the market were heavy and unattractive so decided to design his own.

“Most folding bikes are at least 12kg, which is a lot to carry up and down stairs or on and off trains,” said Craciun. “I wanted to design something really different, not only half the weight of existing folding bikes, but a product with distinctive styling that would be eye-catching, instantly recognisable and something people would be proud to be seen riding.”

Prodrive will produce the first test bikes in October with production bikes going on sale early next year.

“We are always looking for interesting and innovative projects where Prodrive can inject its technical and engineering expertise," said Prodrive chairman David Richards in justifying the creation of the high-tech bicycle.

"Since I first met Petre last year and saw his concept it’s taken us about 12 months to bring it to fruition. The Hummingbird combines all the key attributes of style, innovation and technical excellence that Prodrive stands for and we’re very proud of the end result.”


Car buyers today: Who cares who made it — will my smartphone connect?

                HAMBURG: Brand loyalty is a thing of the past for car owners. A recent survey shows that buyers no longer care as much whether there's a Prancing Horse or Blue Oval on top of the bonnet.

More important: Will my smartphone connect to the car's infotainment system? Will I be able to answer messages from the car? Will I be able to get my Spotify playlists while driving?

Seven out of 10 respondents (69 per cent) taking part in a survey by Germany's IT association Bitkom said that Android or iOS connectivity was a more important question before buying.

The brand of the next car, on the other hand, is only an important matter for 65 per cent.

The younger the buyer, the more important good smartphone integration via CarPlay, Android Auto or manufacturer software is, according to the research.

In the group of up to 29-year-olds, this is vital to 80 per cent of drivers, and to 78 per cent of 30 to 49-year-olds, meaning the vast majority of under 50-year-olds want to bring their own music and apps with them when driving.

But smartphone connectivity still doesn't trump all other factors: safety (98 per cent), as well as comfort (92 per cent) and modern assistance systems (84 per cent) were more important to most.

Whether a car is powered by electricity or fossil fuels is relevant to 79 per cent of buyers. The January 2021 study included 1,003 people in Europe aged 16 and over.


Refreshed Porsche Macan arrives

SEPANG: The new entry level compact SUV from Porsche, the Macan, was launched at the Sepang International Kart Circuit here today.

It now features a 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo engine specifically tailored for this vehicle. It delivers 252hp and 370Nm of torque and is mated to a seven speed PDK dual clutch transmission.

The new Macan can be distinguished by its "hovering" four point LED daytime running lights.

The centrepiece is its new high resolution seven inch touchscreen Porsche Communication Management system (PCM) which is now standard in this model.

The Macan price is estimated at RM435,000.


Ops Tiris: 63 arrested, over RM1.2mil worth of diesel seized

                PUTRAJAYA: The Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry has arrested 63 individuals and seized diesel worth more than RM1.2 million in the first round of an operation, which was carried out nationwide from March 1 until yesterday.

The ministry's secretary-general, Datuk Azman Mohd Yusof, said a total of 2,164 checks were carried out at petrol stations, wholesalers, manufacturers, quarries, check points and other premises during the period.

He said the ministry also managed to build as many as 55 cases involving petrol stations, houses, wholesalers, quarries, workshops and others.

"A total of 54 locals and nine foreigners were arrested since Ops Tiris was launched,” he said in a statement today.

Ops Tiris is being held for six months from March 1 until Aug 31 to ensure that there are no leakages in the implementation of subsidised diesel.

Meanwhile, Azman said the ministry would continue to bolster enforcement on activities involving the embezzlement of subsidised diesel through checks conducted at hotels, tea plantations and petrol stations around Cameron Highlands through Ops Tiris.

Enforcement also included checks and inspections at petrol stations, licensed diesel wholesalers, licensed permit holders and fishermen associations and notices will be issued under Section 8 of the Supply Control Act 1961 with the purpose of obtaining information on the source of diesel oil supply, purchase price and source of oil sales.

"We did this to ascertain if there are leakages in the sale of subsidised diesel oil to unqualified parties or sectors,” he said.

He stressed that there will be no compromise with any party and stern action will be taken at various levels to ensure that the issue of embezzlement and leakages are totally curbed.


Join the Ducati Champions Ride Meet & Greet session on Oct 20

                PETALING JAYA: Ducati in Malaysia will be holding a Champions Ride Meet & Greet session with Ducati team riders who are in town for the Malaysia MotoGP Grand Prix 2022 at the Sepang International Circuit from Oct 21-23.

As run up to race day, the Champions Ride Meet & Greet session will be held at Ducati Flagship Showroom in Petaling Jaya on Oct 20.

The event begins at 8am and those who want to attend must scan the provided QR code and register.

Ducati riders Francesco Bagnaia and Jack Miller are expected to have an autography session with Ducati fans at 9am before flagging off to the Prime Minister's Office in Putrajaya at 9.45am.

The event in Putrajaya ends at 11am after a video and photo session.


Lotus evolves a faster Evora to match Mercedes-AMG GT R stats

                LONDON; Just weeks after unveiling its fastest road-legal car in history, the 305kph Evora GT430, it's taking the wraps off the Evora GT430 Sport, which is even faster still.

How fast? With a 0-100kph time of 3.8 seconds and a 315kph top speed, it boasts the same vital statistics as the Mercedes-AMG GT R.

Lotus's CEO, Jean-Marc Gales claims that the new model complements the existing GT430 and is intended to offer clients even more choice.

The Evora GT430 already has cemented its place as a true collector's car, but we know that many of our customers want the option of choosing a less aggressive version, with the same power, but without some of more arresting design and aero elements. With the Evora GT430 Sport, we have responded to this demand," he said.

However, there's a catch. Lotus hasn't tweaked the new car's engine to hit this new top speed. Both cars use exactly the same 430hp, 450Nm of torque, supercharged V6.

Instead, to increase straight-line performance in the GT340 Sport, Lotus has stuck fastidiously to its late founder, Colin Chapman's philosophy of cutting weight wherever possible to boost speed. And in the case of the new model, those weight-savings have come from ditching its carbon fiber external aerodynamics package.

That cuts 10kg from the car's overall weight and nudges its power-to-weight ratio up to 345hp per tonne. But the lack of an aero package means that the new car only generates 100kg of downforce when traveling at its top speed, compared with the 250kg of downforce generated by the Evora GT430.

All of which means that at the limit, the new car could feel a little light and even skittish, if travelling in anything other than a straight line.

To really put it into perspective, that 10kg kit enables the GT430 to lap Lotus's iconic Hethel test track in 1 minute, 25.8 seconds. Despite being a faster car, the GT430 Sport is a full second slower. But while all Lotus cars are derived from the track, not all Lotus owner buy their car for racing purposes. But if they do want to take the car on the circuit, thanks to adjustable Öhlins dampers, a Torsen-type limited slip differential and an adjustable traction control system, plus some serious brakes, this new model should still bring joy.

"This is a car that epitomizes a purity of engineering that many car manufacturers fail to match," said Gales. "The Evora GT430 range continues [Colin Chapman's] legacy, combining our expertise in highly efficient engineering and aerodynamics with more power and torque to provide one of the most rounded and rewarding driving experiences on the road or track."

The Evora GT430 Sport will cost from £104,500 (RM580,000) when it goes on sale later this year.


Xiaomi’s US$10bil car project bogged down by regulatory hurdles

                BEIJING: Xiaomi Corp is facing difficulties getting regulatory approval for its electric vehicle project in China, an unexpected hurdle for the smartphone giant’s US$10 billion (RM45bil) carmaking endeavour.

The Beijing-based company has been talking to officials at the National Development and Reform Commission about the licensing for months without success, according to people familiar with the matter.

Xiaomi is one of the later would-be entrants to a Chinese EV sector already teeming with rivals, including longer-established names BYD Co. and Nio Inc.

But billionaire co-founder Lei Jun, who has said EVs will be his final startup endeavour, hopes Xiaomi’s expertise in connected technologies and building loyal user communities can translate in the world’s biggest EV market.

But the longer the delay in securing a licence, the bigger the headstart its rivals will gain.

The smartphone and electronics maker is pursuing new growth areas after logging its first sales decline on record in the first quarter.

While some Xiaomi executives are hopeful the authority will eventually green-light the EV project, others worry the process will delay the company’s plans, said one of the people, who asked not to be named discussing internal matters.

Xiaomi incorporated its EV subsidiary in September 2021, allowing the company to begin the application process.

A company representative declined to comment. The NDRC didn’t immediately respond to a fax seeking comment.

China has been stepping up scrutiny of the EV sector, after a rush into the industry led to a spate of high-profile bankruptcies.

New EV applicants are asked to submit a series of documents to prove their financial and technological capabilities, and the review process can take months.

The government also sometimes rejects applications, with companies then back at square one when it comes to the regulatory process.

The absence of a carmaking licence has had limited impact on Xiaomi’s EV development efforts for now, said one of the people.

The EV division has more than 1,000 employees and Xiaomi has said it plans to mass produce its first vehicle in 2024.

It has acquired land in the south-eastern suburbs of Beijing for an assembly plant, and bought EV startups to add technology.

In early 2021, Lei pledged to invest about US$10 billion over 10 years to make Xiaomi-branded cars.

The 52-year-old has largely retreated from the public eye to spend time on the EV project.

China’s electric car market is already crowded, with Tesla Inc., Nio and Warren Buffett-backed BYD among the biggest players.

A growing number of tech companies from Baidu Inc. to Huawei Technologies Co. are exploring business opportunities in autonomous driving, smart cockpit and power management technologies.


Win tickets to Fast X movie

                KUALA LUMPUR: The Lego Group is running the Dream It, Build It! contest till May 18, leading up to LazMall Super Brand Day.

Customers can look forward to exclusive Lego Fast & Furious Starter Kits and stand to win movie tickets to the latest film in the Fast & Furious Saga, Fast X.

In the #LEGOMYDreamItBuildIt contest, the top three winners with the most creative builds can win prizes worth at least RM950, while 10 consolation winners can win to RM450 worth of prizes, courtesy of the Lego Group and Universal Group.

Participants are required to:

⦁ Take a photo of their dream LEGO Vehicles build
⦁ Share the idea behind their design in a post with a caption
⦁ Include the hashtags #LEGOMY and #LEGOMYDreamItBuildIt
⦁ Tag @lazada_my to submit their entries on either Facebook or Instagram

Also, customers can also look out for exclusive Lego Fast & Furious Starter Kit Bundles which consist of an exclusive box that unfolds into a play mat for a unique and long-lasting unboxing play experience, Fast X merchandise from Universal Products & Experiences including a T-shirt and a lanyard, as well as two Lego Fast & Furious Speed Champion sets namely 76917 2 Fast 2 Furious Nissan Skyline GT-R (R34) and 76912 Fast & Furious 1970 Dodge Charger R/T.

Additionally, the top three pre-sale spenders who purchased from the pre-sale collection (available May 11 – 18) on Lego LazMall Super Brand Day can win a pair of tickets each to the new Fast X movie premiere on May 16, 2023.

The first 250 orders will also get to enjoy the ‘Fast & Furious X-Perience’ where they have the benefit of free same-day delivery on limited orders as well as savings of up to 33% off storewide (exclusions will be applied to new launches), various pre-sale savings and deals, flash sales and exclusive LazMall Super Brand Day vouchers.

Also, there are Lego Vehicles themed in-store activations happening on selected weekend afternoons from April 13 to May 28 in selected Lego Certified Stores, Legoland Malaysia Resort, and Toys “R” Us stores.

These vehicles-themed in-store activations help to create an atmosphere of play for children, surrounding detailed models of realistic dream car sets.

Not only will participants get to engage in hands-on interactive play experience with a Lego Vehicles set, but they will also get to try their hand at building a simple Lego car on the spot using the assorted Lego bricks provided.

Upon completion of both vehicles-themed checkpoints, participants can redeem a free Lego polybag.

Interested participants can register for preferred sessions with the Lego staff or event crew on a first come, first served basis.


Champs-Elysees to be pedestrianised once a month to combat smog

                PARIS: Paris' most famous boulevard, the Champs-Elysees, will be off-limits to cars on the first Sunday of every month starting in May, Paris city hall said.

The first pedestrian-only day will be May 8 instead of May 1, a public holiday, when many of the council workers needed to run the scheme will be off work, Nayor Anne Hidalgo's office said.

From then on, cars will be banished from the two kilometre-long street on the first Sunday of every month when museums in Paris are also free to the public.

Nine new routes will also be pedestrianised every Sunday and public holiday - adding to the 13 already subject to traffic restrictions under the "Paris Respire" anti-pollution programme.

Hidalgo, a Socialist, has made fighting the smog that periodically shrouds the French capital one of her top priorities.

The World Health OrganiSation says fine-particle air pollution is responsible for about 42,000 premature deaths in France each year.


Volkswagen to test autonomous vehicles in Chinese city Hefei

                BEIJING: Volkswagen AG said today it will start testing autonomous vehicles in China’s eastern city of Hefei, its first in the world’s biggest car market.

China has become a hot spot for trying out autonomous driving vehicles. Toyota-backed Pony.ai, Baidu Inc, Nissan-backed WeRide and Didi Chuxing are all testing autonomous cars in different cities as automakers and tech companies are investing billions in the technology.

Volkswagen, the biggest foreign automaker in China, will start the test in Hefei with Audi’s e-tron electric sport utility vehicles from September, it said in a statement. The test will be open to the public from next year.

In May, Volkswagen said it would invest 1 billion euros to take a 50% stake in the state-owned parent of Chinese electronic vehicle group JAC.

Volkswagen will also take full management control of its existing electric vehicle joint venture with JAC in Hefei by raising its stake to 75% from 50%.

Volkswagen also has ventures with state-owned China FAW Group Corp Ltd and SAIC Motor Corp Ltd.

The German car company sold 1.59 million vehicles in China in the first six months of 2020, down 17% from 1.92 million vehicles in the same period last year. For all of 2019, Volkswagen sold around 4.23 million vehicles in the country.

In June Volkswagen closed its $2.6 billion investment in Pittsburgh-based self-driving startup Argo AI, in which Ford Motor Co also has a stake.


Nissan NP300 Navara coming in November

                KUALA LUMPUR: Local Nissan distributor Edaran Tan Chong Motor Sdn Bhd (ETCM) said today the new NP300 Navara will be making its way to Malaysia next month.

The NP300 Navara made its world debut last year in Thailand, and has already started selling in Vietnam, Laos, Myanmar, Cambodia, Philippines, Indonesia and Australia this year. Most recently, the NP300 Navara was launched in Europe at the 2015 Frankfurt Motor Show.

The 12th-generation NP300 Navara comes from a long line of Nissan pick-up heritage spanning 80 years. Around 14 million units of the pick-up have been sold in 180 countries.

An improved version of Nissan’s 2.5L Diesel YD25 engine under the bonnet provides a maximum power output of 187hp and torque of 450Nm at 2,000rpm, making it the most powerful pick-up in its segment. Together with a seven-speed automatic transmission with manual mode – the first in its class – the NP300 Navara is said to lead the way with more power and smoother acceleration with better fuel economy.

It will also be the first Japanese pick-up with multi-link rear suspension to be offered in Malaysia for improved ride comfort, handling and stability.

ETCM is organising a series of roadshows from Oct 15, whereby the public could get a glimpse of the new pick-up via a unique 3D floor art display.

Alternatively, members of the public can visit www.np300navara.com.my to discover Nissan’s  pick-up heritage and register their interest on the NP300 Navara for an invitation to a test drive.

For more details,  call the Nissan Customer Care Centre Hotline at 1800 88 3838.


After phone boxes, charging points may become new icon of Britishness

                LONDON: Electric vehicle charge points could join red phone boxes and post boxes as an "iconic" sight on British streets under new design plans.

A contract valued at £200,000 (RM1.2mil) has been advertised by the Department for Transport in an effort to secure a design team for the project.

It explains how officials from the Office for Zero Emission Vehicles want the successful bidder to develop an "iconic, functional public electric vehicle charge point".
The move was welcomed by Conservative former transport minister Sir John Hayes, who said he hopes the charge points will become a "design classic" - similar to the red pillar box or the Gilbert Scott red phone box.

The contract is expected to run between Aug 9 and Oct 29 of this year, with the advertisement stating: "Our aim is for the design to be a guide for local authorities and companies who wish to use it.

"As the charge point rollout continues to accelerate, there is potential for this design to become a piece of iconic British street furniture.

"The project will generate excitement of our charge point rollout ambitions and contribute to a sector wide conversation on good charge point design."

Sir John, MP for South Holland and The Deepings, told the PA news agency: "We do need to think of something like the Gilbert Scott phone box or the pillar box, something that people can immediately identify and it should be something that of itself becomes a design classic.

"We shouldn't see this merely as a piece of utility although, of course, it provides a utilitarian purpose. We should see it as something that adds to the street furniture around our towns and cities.

"That's why the design becomes critical, not only so that it's recognisable but also that it's something people enjoy seeing."

Sir John has previously proposed a design competition and his enthusiasm for the project led to Labour MP Karl Turner suggesting the charge points should be known as "Hayes hooks" in his honour.

Sir John went on: "Using the example of the phone box, I guess at the time it was quite radical but now it's seen as quite retro.

"We shouldn't be frightened of having a design that is of sufficient quality that would look good in all kinds of places - it isn't just something that is brazenly metropolitan or its opposite.

"It should be something that can fit in all kinds of places, with necessary slight tweaks or adaptations so if you're going to put it in Bath it's probable it might want to look somewhat different to how it might look in Canary Wharf, but it has to be sufficiently recognisable. "That's certainly true of pillar boxes."

The British government intends to prohibit the sale of new petrol and diesel cars and vans from 2030. Prime Minister Boris Johnson's 10-point plan for a green industrial revolution, announced in November 2020, made clear his ambition to "accelerate the transition" to electric vehicles.

Business Secretary Kwasi Kwarteng last month acknowledged the need to get the "right charging infrastructure" in place given "range anxiety" concerns which exist among electric vehicle owners.


Hyundai shows off new i20 interior

                LONDON: Hyundai has released s new photo of the next i20 that shows off two large digital screens, a new colour scheme, ambient lighting technology and striking horizontal blades stretching across the whole front interior.

A 10.25-inch digital cluster and a 10.25-inch centre touchscreen have been visually combined to increase the elegance and visual comfort of the interior

The all-new i20 will have its public world premiere at the Geneva Motor Show next month

The cockpit of the all-new i20 was designed to feel wide and airy. One of the most prominent design features are the horizontal blades stretching left-to-right across a high, prominent dashboard, which contain the air vents.

The elegantly-sculpted doors, inspired by shapes found in nature, give it a sensuous feel. Integrated ambient lighting technology allows for a pleasant light at night, and the colour accents match throughout the interior.

The all-new i20 is available with three different interior trims: Black Mono, Black and Grey.

Two 10.25’’ screens offer upgraded connectivity.

Behind the steering wheel is a 10.25-inch digital cluster with a key colour that changes based on the selected drive mode – blue for Normal, green for Eco, and orange for Sport. To the right of the steering wheel, mounted high in the visual centre is a 10.25-inch centre AVN (audio/video/navigation) touchscreen.

Integrated into the AVN touchscreen are a range of new connectivity features not seen in the i20, including Hyundai Bluelink Telematics. Among these are Hyundai LIVE services, which include real-time traffic and weather data, information about nearby fuel stations including fuel prices and parking spaces, and online voice recognition. Further Bluelink services include Find My Car, remote lock services, navigation to local points of interest, vehicle alarm information, and maintenance reports.

In addition, the all-new i20 is fully compatible with Android Auto and Apple Car Play, wireless in combination with the 8” Display Audio. A wireless charging pad is available as well.

A new Bose audio system consisting of eight speakers, including a subwoofer, delivers a premium-quality sound.


Daimler to revamp China plant to make Actros trucks as sales surge

                BEIJING: Germany’s Daimler AG and its China commercial vehicle partner Beiqi Foton Motor Co plan to invest 2.75 billion yuan (RM1.7bil) to build Mercedes-Benz-branded Actros heavy trucks for the first time in China, a document showed.

The partners plan to revamp plants at their joint venture Beijing Foton Daimler Automotive (BFDA) in China’s capital Beijing and add a production line, giving the plant a capacity of 50,000 Actros trucks a year, according to the construction document posted on the venture’s website.

A source familiar with the matter said the companies plan to embark on the revamp next year.

Foton had no comment and Daimler did not immediately respond to Reuters queries about the project.

Shares in Foton jumped by their maximum 10% daily limit and were headed for their best day since Oct 13 after the Reuters report.

All Mercedes-Benz trucks currently sold in China are imported and priced significantly higher than the venture’s domestically made Auman trucks.

The truck joint venture sold 111,788 Auman trucks, which have Daimler’s technology input, in the first 10 months this year, up 55% from same period last year.

Reuters reported the expansion plan in August last year. Sources familiar with the matter later said the progress was slow, citing product and supply chain planning, regulation approvals and the impact from the Covid-19 pandemic.

Daimler said in 2016 it planned to make Actros trucks in China by the end of the decade but has not since publicly given updates.

Daimler, which has a passenger car joint venture with Foton’s parent BAIC Group, sold around 700,000 passenger cars in China last year. Its chief executive said last month China will remain Mercedes-Benz’s biggest growth market in the next decade and it will adjust production locations to capture shifts in demand.

Overall truck sales in China, the world’s biggest auto market, jumped 24% between January and October to 3.87 million units, driven by government investment in infrastructure and as buyers upgraded to comply with tougher emissions rules.

But the market is largely dominated by local companies including FAW’s Jiefang, Dongfeng Motor and Sinotruk, which offer more price-competitive products.

International truck makers including MAN SE and Volvo trucks have engine partnerships with local companies.


Renault shows off extreme Clio R.S.16

MONACO: Renault Sport have unveiled a new concept car on the streets of Monaco’s famous Grand Prix circuit on Friday driven by Renault Sport Formula One Team’s Kevin Magnussen.

The Clio R.S.16 is the highest performance Renault Sport road-going vehicle ever and its reveal in 2016 celebrates both 40 years of Renault Sport and Renault’s return to Formula One as a constructor.

“Our aim was to produce a concept car with genuinely outstanding performance credentials,” notes Patrice Ratti, Managing Director of Renault Sport Cars, leader of the project which particularly inspired the development team’s specialists. “On paper, producing a Clio R.S. powered by our most potent engine – namely the 275-horsepower two-litre power unit which delivers peak torque of 360Nm – was an extremely appealing idea, but we had to make sure it was feasible.”

Thanks to new working procedures involving teams from the worlds of motorsport and road cars, the development of the highest-performance road-going Renault Sport car ever took just five months from start to finish.

Finding the ideal way to house the engine, transmission and cooling system of the Mégane R.S. 275 Trophy-R was a significant challenge. The exhaust system was also revised as a function of the engine’s potential, while the suspension was engineered to match the car’s performance characteristics. Careful attention was paid to the sound produced by the car, too, and an Akrapovič twin exhaust system was selected.

The design and development team dealt successfully with the constraints inherent in the Clio R.S. 16 project (body widened by 60mm, 19-inch wheels and optimisation of the engine cooling system) to produce an expressive, sporty stance. The result is enhanced by an LED R.S. VISION chequered-pattern lighting signature featuring exclusive multi-faceted reflector technology.

Renault Sport’s trademark Liquid Yellow has been combined with gloss black details to mirror the livery of Renault Sport Formula One Team’s R.S.16 F1 single-seaters.

The car’s next official appearance will be the Goodwood Festival of Speed on June 23-26.


Older motorists baulk at buying an electric car, survey shows

                BERLIN: New research shows that many drivers aged over 55 years of age are not keen on buying an electric car.

Range-anxiety is one of the major factors holding back these older would-be buyers, according to a survey by global consultants KPMG.

The survey found that when considering the purchase of an electric car, range anxiety - namely worry about the distance the car can travel on one charge - was the top concern for 75 per cent of people aged over 55.

Less than half (40 per cent) of those surveyed between the ages of 18-34 had such misgivings.

The results come from poll of 2,001 people in Britain taken in September, said KPMG.

"There's clearly a massive generational shift taking place," said Justin Benson, who heads the automotive section at KPMG UK.

"Millennials and Generation Z are moving towards electric vehicles and the over 55s appear to be reluctant to do the same quite so quickly."

Benson said young people also tended to focus more on how quickly a vehicle can be charged rather than how far it will travel on replenished batteries.

"Young people are typically more open to trying new things and there's an element of expecting to have almost anything within a very short time span, if not instantly at the touch of a button," said the KPMG expert.


Derrick's love affair with Porsche

                KUALA LUMPUR: Datuk Derrick Lim is a man who leads by example.

As president of Porsche Club Malaysia (PCM), the businessman has not one but six Porsches, underscoring his passion for all things Porsche.

The Lim family has a Macan, Cayenne and four 911s that include the 997 GT3 RS 4.0.

Lim counts the GT3 RS as his "all-time favourite", which he takes for a spin once in a while.

He said the Macan, Cayenne and occasionally the other 911s serve as his daily ride.

The club Lim headed started with less than 10 members in 1998 and grew to 2,000 today, of which 400 are active members.

Today saw PCM turned a new chapter with the opening of its office at Porsche Centre Sungai Besi in Kuala Lumpur. The office is located on the first floor of the showroom.

Present at the opening ceremony were Sime Darby Auto Performance chairman Tan Sri Mokhzani Mahathir and its CEO, Christopher Hunter.

Lim emphasised that PCM is the only legitimate Porsche club in Malaysia, which has been recognised and licensed by Porsche AG, Germany since 2003. Globally, it is the 170th club on the rolls of the German high performance car maker. It is also registered with the Registrar of Societies.

Lim cautioned that there were local clubs using the Porsche name that were not the "real McCoy" and have sown confusion among the public.

"So if you want to join a club, join the rightful one," Lim urges new Porsche owners.

Club activities include frequent drives and social events throughout the year for members to get together to enjoy their passion. Events include track days, drive clinics, road rallies and social drives.

Activities are funded by membership fees and sponsorship.

On the international front, PCM has ambitions to forge a regional bloc of clubs called Porsche Club Asia, similar to what is seen in the US and Europe that aims to expand the community of Porschephiles.

In 2019, PCM signed an MoU with clubs from Singapore, Indonesia, Thailand, China, Cambodia, South Korea and Hong Kong to cultivate closer ties. With signs of recovery from the pandemic in 2022, PCM aims to get the momentum going for Porsche Club Asia.

To be a PCM member, one must own a Porsche car or have ready access to a Porsche. The annual membership fee is RM600, while first-time applicants also pay a one-time registration fee of RM400.

For more information, visit http://www.porscheclub.my/ or https://www.facebook.com/porscheclubmalaysia.


'Great future' ahead for classic cars, says top Mercedes manager

                VIENNA: The head of Mercedes-Benz's classic car division believes cherished cars have a promising time ahead of them, despite the transition to electromobility and the phase-out of fossil fuels.

"Classics have a great future", Marcus Breitschwerdt told the Swiss news website 20 Minutes when interviewed at classic car show The Ice in St. Moritz.

"For one thing, in times of change there will be many who want to hold on to the familiar and preserve the tried and tested. And for another, there is more and more prosperity in the world," he said.

Amid looming combustion engine bans in some countries and the rise of electromobility, the future of classic cars, and their associated emissions and lower levels of fuel efficiency, is uncertain.

And yet "there is nothing more sustainable than a car that is passed on from generation to generation," Breitschwerdt believes. "Because with every kilometre of mileage, the amount of CO2 caused by the production of a car becomes smaller."

The expert said classic cars are rarely used in everyday life or driven over long distances and thus leave a smaller CO2 footprint than modern vehicles. "Moreover, e-fuels are a viable way to move classic cars more sustainably."

Asked about which cars to buy on either a small or large budget, Breitschwerdt had this advice: "Buy the most recent or the oldest."

"The former because, like the last generations of the Mercedes SL, the S-Class or even the C-Class, they are only at the very beginning of their value development and, on top of that, they also have a high degree of suitability for everyday use.

"And the latter because pre-war cars in particular are currently a little under the radar of collectors," said Breitschwerdt.

"Owners are currently undergoing a generational change and supply currently exceeds demand."


World's first 3D-printed car due on roads in 2019

                SHANGHAI: It's been easy for us to think of 3D printing as something of a gimmick while the process has still been in its embryonic stage, but when news emerges about a 3D-printed car that is genuinely set to take to the roads as soon as next year, it's probably time to sit up and take notice. And we're not just talking about a one-off prototype here either, as next year is when this world-first is actually set to go into production.

The car is a Smart-sized model called the LSEV that's made almost entirely using 3D-printing technology, and the makers are a joint venture between the Chinese Polymaker company and the Italian-based manufacturer X Electrical Vehicle (XEV).

A few components of the car still have to be made by conventional methods, such as the chassis, the windows and the tires, but the vast majority of the car is made by 3D printing. Although it would probably be easier, quicker and cheaper at the moment to use conventional production methods, the real point of 3D printing is that it dramatically reduces the amount of waste material produced during the production process. This has led the boss of Polymaker, Xiaofan Luo, to predict that the project will "inspire more [car] companies to adopt 3D printing."

A further advantage of 3D printing in this application is that it allows the manufacturer to greatly reduce the number of parts used, and therefore reduce the environmental impact of car production. In this particular case the number of plastic parts was just 57, compared to the 2,000 it would have taken if conventional manufacturing methods were used.

The prototype of the LSEV has a claimed range of 150km on a single charge, a top speed of 69kph, and it weighs-in at just 450kg, which is around half the weight of a Smart Fortwo. The car is currently on display at Shanghai's China 3D-printing Culture Museum and will be making an appearance at the Beijing motor show next month.

It took just three days to produce the prototype. XEV intends to build around 500 of them each year on a single production line, and when it goes on sale in late 2019 (probably in China first) it's thought it will sell for the equivalent of around US$10,000 (RM40,000).


Fuel prices lowest in February after float

                PETALING JAYA: Since the implementation of the managed float system in December last year, the lowest price that RON95 petrol had touched was RM1.70, in February.

February also saw prices of RON97 and diesel at their lowest -  RM2.00 and RM1.70 - respectively.

Prior to the managed float, RON95 was selling at RM2.26, RON97 at RM2.55 and diesel at RM2.23.

Under the managed float,  retail prices would be based on the monthly average world price of crude oil with other factors also being considered.

The then Domestic Trade, Cooperatives and Consumerism Minister Datuk Seri Hasan Malek said the average price difference in the cost of the fuels in a month would determine the retail prices for the following month.

Global crude oil prices have been on a downward slump since the middle of last year and though crude oil prices have recovered a number of times during the year, prices have dropped by almost a third from the same time last year.


Boon Siew Honda the first local manufacturer to have EEV bikes

                GEORGE TOWN: Boon Siew Honda Sdn Bhd has announced that its four motorcycle models have been certified as Energy Efficient Vehicles (EEV), making it the first motorcycle maker to have EEV-certified models.

They are EX5 Fi (pic), Future Fi, Wave Dash (Fi) and Wave Alpha qualify as EEVs. Among them, three models, EX5 Fi, Future Fi and Wave Dash, consume 1.8 litres of petrol per 100km, which is 18% better than the EEV’s regulation benchmark.

The certification from the Road Transport Department took effect from Aug 1  The Energy Efficient Vehicle (EEV) is defined as a vehicle that meets the carbon emissions and fuel consumption standards issued by the Malaysian Automotive Institute. For motorcycles with engines between 101cc and 150cc capacities, the EEV certificate will be granted to a model that consumes less than 2.2 litres of petrol per 100km.

While the Government aims to make 85% of total vehicle production to be EEVs by 2020, 83% of Boon Siew Honda’s production already qualify as EEVs.


Indonesian authorities run ‘two-faced’ car off the road

                BANDUNG: A double-ended car owned by a septuagenarian mechanic from Indonesia has been ordered off the road, but he has not given up on the quirky creation just yet.

Roni Gunawan built the “two-faced” car with the help of colleagues in Bandung, West Java province, by welding together the front halves of two orange Toyota Limos.

The head-turning vehicle - which took about three-and-a-half months to build - has two engines, two steering wheels and two sets of pedals.

Its dual features make it particularly easy to park, Gunawan told AFP.

But the 71-year-old’s dream has hit a serious speed bump: local authorities have ticketed him, saying he lacks the necessary permits for the modifications.

Despite the setback, Gunawan has vowed to get the vehicle roadworthy so it can see another day.

”I will not be making a second,” he said. “It’s new in Indonesia - two faces, two machines.”


No need to use MySejahtera app when filling up petrol, clarifies Petrol Dealers Association chief

                PETALING JAYA: Individuals only need to scan the MySejahtera App when entering the convenience store at petrol stations, says Petrol Dealers Association of Malaysia (PDAM).

Its president, Datuk Khairul Annuar Abdul Aziz, said the directive that was given to them was to only register details of patrons when they enter such locations.

He clarified that there was no need to do so when refuelling one's vehicles.

“What we were told is that we have to have the QR code and temperature screening upon individuals entering the shops.

“Beyond that, there is no need, ” he said when contacted today.

He said one of the petrol station owners has clarified and confirmed the matter with the Crisis Preparedness and Response Centre (CPRC).

“Another thing is that it is dangerous to be on your phone near the fuel pumps. So, for safety considerations, it is not practical to do that.

“For self-service machines and infrastructure, there is no need to scan the QR code, ” he said.

An email written by the CPRC, sighted by The Star, responding to an enquiry about the matter also clarified that individuals only need to scan the QR code when entering a premises.

“Brief encounters such as refilling oil at pump stations or when making payments do not require the MySejahtera app to be scanned, ” the email read.

This comes following a viral audio clip of a man who alleged that his father was slapped with a RM1,000 fine because he did not scan the MySejahtera app when refuelling his vehicle.


Nissan ups the goodies with sales campaign

                KUALA LUMPUR: Local Nissan vehicle distributor Edaran Tan Chong Motor is holding the Nissan Great Rewards campaign that offers great savings for buyers to maximise the benefits of the recently extended vehicle Sales Tax exemption.

Nissan vehicle buyers can also expect low monthly instalment with Flexi Financing programme and attractive accessories or maintenance packages under the campaign.

The Nissan Almera 1.0L Turbo now comes with Urban accessories package worth up to RM5,500 and an attractive Flexi Financing offer at an affordable RM530 monthly, while the new Special Civil Servants Promotion offers the Almera Turbo VL variant with starting price from RM71,906 only.

The redesigned Navara 4X4 2.5L Turbo Double-Cab pick-up truck which features many best-in-class technologies, including an array of Nissan Intelligent Mobility driver assisted features and safety systems, is also available with an attractive Flexi Financing offer from RM960 monthly.

The X-Trail now comes with Impul or Aero Edition accessories package worth up to RM5,600 and an attractive Flexi Financing offer from RM1,020 monthly, while the Serena S-Hybrid comes with free three years maintenance service with parts and labour included and Flexi Financing offer with an irresistible RM1,080 monthly.

ETCM's recently launched the Nissan Flagship Store on Lazada e-commerce platform allows a convenient and secure new Nissan vehicle buying experience.

Customers can also book the Almera Turbo, Navara, X-Trail or Serena S-Hybrid with a low booking fee of RM250.

The Nissan Flagship Store on Lazada is at www.lazada.com.my/shop/nissan-malaysia-flagship-store.

For more information, customers can check out the Nissan Online Showroom at www.nissan.com.my or call the Nissan Customer Care Centre hotline at 1800-88-3838.


BHPetrol gets new station in Lukut

                PORT DICKSON: BHPetrol has opened its latest station to provide convenience and services to residents in the Sepang-Lukut area, Negri Sembilan.

Officially launched by Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail on Monday, the BHPetrol Sepang Lukut station is operated by Seng Group of Companies, one of the most active companies in the construction and retail of petrol stations in Malaysia.

The station's strategic location and spacious area makes it easy for consumers to fuel up, buy a variety of items at the BHPetromart convenience store or to use the toilet.

Customers can also top up their Touch N'go credit and even pay bills via e-Pay.
Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail (second from left) with Seng Group of Companies managing director and CEO Datuk Seri King Lim (right) officiating the launch of BHPetrol Sepang Lukut station. Also present were Seng Group of Companies president Datuk Seri Christopher Lim (second, right) and BHPetrol general manager (supply, retail and government public affairs) Azizul Azily Ahmad (left).   - fotoBERNAMA
Seng Group of Companies managing director Datuk Seri Dr King Lim Chin Fui said the company was honoured and grateful to the support and patronage from the area's multi-ethnic community.

In conjunction with the opening ceremony which coincided with the Chinese New Year celebration, Seng Group of Companies also presented contributions to 17 schools around Port Dickson and several NGOs.

Other VIP guests at the launch were BHPetrol Supply, Retail, Corporate Affairs and Public Relations Division general manager Azizul Azily Ahmad and Seng Group Of Companies chairman Datuk Seri Christopher Lim Seong Joo.


Honda Gold Wing Series to receive Android Auto integration

                LOS ANGELES: Honda announced that Android Auto will be integrated with its current-model Gold Wing at no additional cost.

Customers with Android 5.0 or later smartphones and the Android Auto app will be able to communicate seamlessly with the application and its services that include music, phone calls and messaging.

When utilizing it while riding a Gold Wing, connection with a Bluetooth headset (sold separately) will be required and the method to update software is planned to be available in mid-June, 2020.

Since the Gold Wing GL1000 went on sale in North America in 1975, the Gold Wing series has evolved as Honda's flagship model for over four decades.

In October 2017, the new Gold Wing was announced in North America, becoming the world's first motorcycle with Apple CarPlay integration.

Navigation features to enhance the ride experience and application-specific services have been well-received by many customers.

Android Auto is a simple way for customers to use a phone on the motorcycle. With a simplified interface and easy-to-use voice actions, it looks to minimize distraction so riders can stay focused on the road.

Android Auto makes it easy to access a rider's favourite list of music, media and messaging apps while on the motorcycle.

With Google Assistant on Android Auto, riders can stay focused, connected and entertained, keeping their eyes on the road and their hands on the handlebar, while using their voice to help with their day.

With Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration coming to more models, Honda plans to bring more comfort and convenience to customers' motorcycle lifestyles worldwide.


Hyundai reveals first images of new Santa Fe

                SEOUL: Hyundai Motor has unveiled the first official images of the new Santa Fe which will celebrate its world premiere later this month.

Hyundai said the fourth generation Santa Fe is a premium-designed SUV with class-leading roominess.

It displays a modern and elegant appearance complemented by eye-catching twin headlights and the Cascading Grille, Hyundai’s SUV-family identity. The exterior design is characterised by a powerful wide stance and an athletic, bold look. It features refined lines that reinforce the car’s status at the top of Hyundai’s SUV line-up. The Santa Fe interior design combines premium quality with a horizontal and roomy layout and enhanced visibility.

Its exterior dimensions make it appear even more prominent. With a length of 4,770 mm, a width of 1,890 mm and a longer wheelbase, it also provides more comfort for its passengers.

Hyundai said the SUV offers best-in-class safety features.

As part of its SmartSense technology, the Santa Fe offers a comprehensive package of active safety features, making advanced technology affordable. Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist is a Hyundai first. When reversing out of areas with low visibility, the system not only warns the driver if vehicles approach from the side – it also applies the brakes automatically.

The Safety Exit Assist prevents accidents when vehicles approach from behind by temporarily locking the doors, so that passengers will exit the car safely.

Further details will be disclosed at the world premiere before making its debut at the Geneva Motor Show in March 2018.


Perodua extends operating hours for service centres and B&P hubs

Perodua Sentral PJ - Perodua's flagship outlet

RAWANG: Perodua has announced that it has extended its operating hours for selected service centres as well as body and paint (B&P) hubs, effective immediately.

The company's pilot project will involve 16 service centres and three B&P hubs nationwide which will operate from 8.00am to 9.00pm (Peninsular Malaysia) and 7.45am to 8.45pm (East Malaysia) from Monday to Saturday.

“We know that many of our valued customers’ vehicles are overdue for servicing as our nationwide operations were shut for two months due to the Movement Control Order (MCO),” said Perodua president and chief executive officer Datuk Zainal
Abidin Ahmad.

The local carmaker said that 2.35mil service intakes were experienced in 2019 via its 202 service centres nationwide.

“We are therefore extending the operating hours of selected service centres and B&P hubs to meet the high demand and continue to give our valued customers total peace of mind,” added Zainal.

Customers wanting to service their vehicles are required to secure an appointment slot beforehand with their service centre of choice with walk-ins still not accepted at present.

Zainal added that the pilot project should help to ease the demand for servicing of Perodua vehicles - especially in major regions.

“We will monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of this pilot project continually but for now, it will run until further notice,” he said.

The company stated that all visitors to the service centres and B&P hubs must undergo temperature checks prior to entering the outlets as well as register their details and adhere to social distancing markers within the outlets at all times.

Also, hand sanitisers have been placed at key locations, while the outlets themselves are regularly sanitised.

“As a People First company, this initiative represents Perodua’s perpetual commitment to put our valued customers first in everything we do,” concluded Zinal.


Volvo V90 T5 wagon: Scandinavian luxury and comfort

                It is quite powerful, offers supreme comfort, lots of luggage room and interior space as it's about the size of a typical Japanese D-segment sedan, and and topping it all off, you can have a bit of fun with it as it handles very well when you chuck it around corners and road bends.

Meet the Volvo V90 T5 estate or station wagon.

Still, station wagons aren't popular in Malaysia and we surmise that this is likely due to an association with hearses. However, there's no denying that a well-equipped and kitted out station wagon from a Swedish premium car marque is a marvellous creature to experience, especially on long weekend drives.

Priced at RM393,888 on-the-road without insurance, this 5-door, 5-seater station wagon is a wonderfully comfortable transporter.

The distinctly Scandinavian premium leather clad interior, with smooth dark wood trim and chrome door handles, has an upscale look while the seats hold our bodies comfortably, and are akin to premium furniture.

Highlights include the high-performance audio system with 10 speakers (6-channels, 330W), and the state-of-the-art CleanZone Interior Air Quality System (IAQS).

CleanZone monitors incoming air and shuts the cabin's air intakes if harmful substances are detected while a multi-filter reduces the levels of dust, pollen, particles and chemical odours.

The powered tailgate with hands-free function provides more convenience.

There is an impressive amount of space and the rear seats fold flat.

To store luggage for a weekend getaway, the V90 offers 560 litres of space (volume to glass line - rear seats up) or 1,526 litres (volume to roof - rear seats down).

To hold small items in the cabin, there are also front seat-back nets and shopping bag hooks.

The large nine-inch Sensus Connect colour touchscreen display is intuitive, and gives access to car functions such as radio, rear headrest fold, lane keeping aid, rear view camera, parking aids and temperature controls.

With Volvo Cars renowned for automotive safety, it's a given that the V90 has a barnful of advanced safety and driver assistance systems.

Standard kit includes the Intellisafe package which has Volvo’s City Safety, an advanced Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) system that can detect and mitigate collisions with pedestrians, cyclists, and large animals.

Also included is Run Off Road Mitigation, which is an auto-steer function that helps to keep the car on the road.

There is also a semi-autonomous drive feature, Pilot Assist which can keep the car on course within lane markings and functions up to 130kph.

Regarding its road manners, our V90 tester ran on Pirelli P Zero high performance tyres sized 245/45 R18 and handled corners very proficiently when we tossed it around at some speed.

The electric powered steering was very well tuned, and felt well-weighted and chatty.

There is plenty of muscle from the 2.0-litre turbocharged engine delivering 254hp at 5,500rpm and maximum torque of 350Nm from 1,500 – 4,800rpm.

This is mated to a smooth-shifting eight-speed automatic that delivers power to the front wheels.

In the V90, the driver can choose from four driving modes: Comfort, Dynamic, Eco and Individual.

By switching between the modes with the roller control in the centre console, one can adapt the powertrain, steering and other vehicle characteristics.

For example, Eco mode adjusts the powertrain and air-conditioning for better fuel economy while Dynamic mode is calibrated for sporty driving, with quick engine, gearbox, steering and braking responses.

Now, the V90 promises 6.8 litres per 100km on mixed highway/city driving but bear in mind, this car has a 1,743kg kerb weight and a powerful turbocharged powertrain.

So if fuel economy is an important concern, one had better be very gentle on the throttle.

Of course, in an masterfully designed oasis of comfort like the V90, one would normally not be in a hurry to get anywhere.

Volvo V90 T5 estateEngine: 1,969cc 4-cylinder turbocharged
Maximum power: 254hp at 5,500rpm
Maximum torque: 350Nm from 1,500 – 4,800rpm
Transmission: 8-speed automatic
Acceleration (0 to 100kph): 7.0 seconds
Features: Airbags, Engine Start-Stop with ECO+, Hill Start Assist (HSA), Hill Descent Control, City Safety with Collision Avoidance and pedestrian, cyclist and large animal detection, rear collision warning and mitigation support, Run-off Road Mitigation, Pilot Assist with Steering Support (up to 130kph) - semi-autonomous drive, Lane Keeping Aid, Blind Spot Information System (BLIS), Cross Traffic Alert, electronic stability control (ESC), Spin Control with Engine Drag Control
Price: RM393,888 on the road without insurance; 5-year and unlimited mileage warranty; 5-year Volvo On Call road assist


Hail the Robocar!

 Image by Chief Design Officer Daniel Simon / Roborace Ltd.

LONDON: The first designs of the Roborace autonomous electric race car was revealed today – and it’s a futuristic creation that is unlike anything ever seen on a race track before.

The design is the work of the newly-appointed Roborace chief design officer Daniel Simon, who has earned some of his design chops from working with Volkswagen and Bugatti in the past.

Simon, who is renowned for his work on Hollywood sci-fi blockbusters such as Tron: Legacy, Prometheus and Oblivion, set out to create something that took full advantage of being the first-ever racing car that doesn’t need to accommodate a driver.

“My goal was to create a vehicle that takes full advantage of the unusual opportunities of having no driver without ever compromising on beauty,” he said. “Racing engineers and aerodynamicists have worked with me from the beginning to strike that balance. The Roborace is as much about competition as it is entertainment. Therefore – and quite unusual in today’s racing world – beauty was very high on our agenda and we work hard to merge the best performance with stunning styling.

To produce high downforce with minimal parts, Simon used the floor as the main aerodynamic device. "We are developing active body parts that are more organic and seamless than solutions today.”

The new racing series is organised by Formula E as a support series that would start before the main event. A London-based company called Kinetik will make the cars, which are all the same except for their own real-time computing algorithms and artificial intelligence (AI) technologies. The car is said to be able to achieve a top speed of over 300kph.

No specific date was given for the first Roborace but a press statement said it would take place during the 2016/17 Formula E season. The next round of the Formula E race begins in Long Beach, California on April 2.

 Designer Simon works on a eclectic mix of projects with some from Hollywood studios. - Image from danielsimon.com

The Roborace championship, which will see 10 teams duke it out for AI supremacy, will provide a competitive platform for autonomous driving that are now being developed by many large industrial automotive and technology players as well as top tech universities.

"This first image of the Robocar, designed by Daniel Simon, represents a vision of what cars will be, a vision of our future," said Formula E CEO Alejandro Agag.

"In Formula E, we are proud to promote, together with pioneers like Denis Sverdlov and Daniel Simon, a revolution in the world of motorsport, a project that will change the future of mobility".


Israel's Cognata to partner with Hyundai Mobis for simulation

                TEL AVIV: Israel’s Cognata, a provider of simulation software and training data for driver-assistance systems and autonomous vehicles, said on Wednesday South Korean software provider Hyundai Mobis selected Cognata to test its offerings.

The deal brings Cognata’s technology to one of South Korea’s largest automotive groups.

Large-scale simulation provides the only environment where advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) and autonomous vehicle technology can be safely tested and validated, the company said.

“We are seeing incredible momentum and growth in ADAS and autonomous driving in South Korea,” Cognata CEO Danny Atsmon said.

Lee Chang-ik, who manages autonomous vehicle simulation in Hyundai Mobis, said Cognata would help it accelerate time-to-market for its offerings.


Your choice of hybrids and PHEVs in Malaysia

                OWNING a hybrid car is no longer a unique proposition as more and more car manufacturers are offering hybrid variants to the Malaysian consumer.

Even more enticing is that you can now own such fuel-efficient cars below the RM100K mark.

Besides getting the price down, hybrid and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEV) are fuel efficient and does save you from visiting the petrol pump on a regular basis.

However, PHEVs cost more than hybrids as they come with larger batteries and can be charged via an external cable.

Overall, these electrified cars also benefit the environment with its low emissions by applying the electric motor and the start/stop feature which switches off the combustion engine when the car is idle.

Another benefit of these cars is the very low cabin noise level.

When the car utilises the electric motor, it is so quiet sometimes you can’t tell whether it is running or not.

This offers another level of comfort for the driver and passenger.

Even when the combustion engine is ignited, these cars are so well damped sound-wise that you may not even notice the engine is running.

Finally, another plus to a hybrid and PHEV is that they produce more output than its combustion engine equivalents especially more torque which results in more powerful drives.

Let’s take a look at the options of owning a hybrid or PHEV car in Malaysia.

BMW 330e M-Sport

The direct competitor of the C-Class plug-in hybrid is the Bavarian-make 330e M Sport trim PHEV priced at RM258,800.

It also features a 2.0-litre turbocharged engine mated to an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission.

Coupled with the electric motor, the car generates 252PS and 420Nm of torque.

Besides the usual drive modes of Eco, Normal, Sport and Sport+, the 330e also comes with three other modes of AUTO eDRIVE which lets the car determine the use of engine, electric motor or both; MAX eDRIVE uses mostly electric motor; and SAVE BATTERY uses the engine for most of the time.

The M kit includes a set of 18-inch double-spoke M light alloy wheels with 225/45 (front) and 255/40 (rear) tyres and the M Sport suspension package which lowers the car by 10mm.

For more information, click here and here.

BMW X5 xDrive40e

If PHEV SUVs is more your thing, then you want to have a look at this.

It’s locally-assembled in M Sport trim priced at RM388,800 on-the-road without insurance.

Under the hood is a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine which churns out 242hp and 350Nm of torque and a synchronous electric motor.

The combined system output is 313hp and 450Nm of torque delivered by the eight-speed Steptronic automatic transmission to all four wheels. It has an electric range of around 30km.

The battery pack for the vehicle is a lithium-ion unit with a gross energy capacity of 9.0kWh

Equipment on the xDrive40e includes front sports seats, auto air-conditioning with four-zone control, a Navigation system Professional system with a 10.25-inch display monitor, a Harman Kardon surround sound system with 16 speakers and a rear seat entertainment system made up of two 10.2-inch monitors.

The car has Lane Departure Warning and City & Pedestrian Collision Warning with front and rear Park Distance Control (PDC) as well as Surround View, which comes with side and rear view cameras.

And you get the BMW ConnectedDrive Services with Intelligent Emergency Call, BMW TeleServices, Concierge Services and eDrive Services.

For more information, click here.

BMW 740Le X-Drive

The BMW 7 Series is now exclusively offered as a plug-in hybrid in Malaysia and is locally-assembled to boot and priced at RM598,800 on-the-road without insurance inclusive of a five-year/unlimited mileage warranty.

The 740Le xDrive is powered by a 2.0 litre BMW TwinPower Turbo four-cylinder unit offering 258PS and 400Nm.

The supplementary synchronous electric motor is integrated into a ZF-sourced eight-speed automatic transmission with Steptronic.

The combined system output is 326PS and 500Nm of torque. In electric mode, it has a range of 41km.

Eventhough this is a big car it’s no slouch as it can go from 0-100kph in just 5.3 seconds.

Luxury appointments include a Design Pure Excellence exterior and interior package, Nappa leather quilted upholstery and a Poplar Grain Grey fine-wood trim finish.

The equipment includes the Sky Lounge panoramic glass roof, a BMW Display Key, a 16-speaker Harman Kardon sound system, two 10-inch display screens operated via a BMW Touch Command seven-inch touchscreen tablet.

Safety-wise, it comes with eight airbags, Isofix, an Active Protection System, lane departure warning, lane change warning, pedestrian collision warning, crossing traffic alert, active cruise control with a Stop&Go function, steering/lane control assistant and lane keeping assistant with active side collision protection.

Also included is a head-up display, parking assistant, automatic parallel and perpendicular parking and surround view.

For more information, click here.

Honda City and Jazz Sport Hybrid i-DCD

Honda Malaysia made a mark in the local industry this year by offering hybrid variants of the City sedan and compact hatch, Jazz with prices at RM89,200 and RM87,500 respectively.

 Honda City.

Both cars have a 1.5-litre DOHC i-VTEC engine mated to a 7-speed dual clutch transmission producing a combined output of 137hp and 170Nm of torque.

The features of both cars are quite similar especially in terms of safety other than the fact that the Jazz lacks side mirrors with turning lights, auto retractable door mirrors, rear air-con vents and paddle shifters.

Honda Malaysia recently posted figures of 1,200 bookings of both cars combined. And this figure is dated Sept 30, 2017 with the City being the more popular of the two.

 Honda Jazz.

Honda Malaysia offers a five year warranty with unlimited mileage, free labour service up to 6 times within 100,000km or five years and an eight year hybrid battery (lithium-ion) warranty with unlimited mileage. Terms and conditions apply.

For more information, click here and here.

Hyundai Ioniq

The Ioniq hybrid from South Korean marque Hyundai was launched at the end of November 2016.

Now available in two variants - HEV and HEV Plus AVN - with prices starting from RM100,328 and RM116,488 respectively.

The Ioniq Hybrid is powered by the Kappa 1.6 litre Atkinson GDi combustion engine and the electric Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor (PMSM) which is mated to a 6-speed dual clutch transmission (DCT).

The combustion engine produces 105PS at 5,700rpm and 147Nm of torque at 5,000rpm while the 32kW electric motor pushes out 43hp and 170Nm of torque.

Powering the electric motor is the lithium-ion polymer battery.

Standard features for both variants are impressive such as include keyless entry, smart key with stop start button, LED daytime running lights, dual zone climate control with single zone operation mode, seven airbags, anti-lock brake system (ABS), brake assist system (BAS), hill-start assist control (HAC), electronic stability control (ESC), vehicle stability management, auto cruise control, auto light control, tyres pressure monitoring system, front and rear parking sensors and rear view camera.

Meanwhile, the high spec HEV Plus AVN variant comes with HID Bi-Xenon head lamps and LED type rear combination lamps, 8-inch high definition Android-based TFT-LCD digital cluster, wireless charging for smartphones, blind spot detection (BSD), lane keeping assist system (LKAS), autonomous emergency braking system (AEB), smart cruise control system and rain sensor.

For more information, click here.

Mercedes-Benz C 350 e

Need more oomph for your C-Class then the C 350 e is the way to go.

This is a PHEV priced at RM289,888 (Avantgarde trim); RM294,888 (with AMG Line interior); RM299,888 (AMG Line exterior and interior).

The combustion engine comprises of a 2.0-litre turbocharged engine and outputs 279hp and 600Nm of torque.

It uses a lithium-ion battery which can be recharged by plugging to a charging station or wall socket. The battery can be fully charged from 10% to 100% in about one hour and 45 minutes with the 230V 16A 3.7kW single-phase wallbox (RM7,000) or about two hours with a 230V 13A 3.0kW wall socket.

It comes with the highly sought after Airmatic air suspension which is comes as standard, for outstanding ride comfort with minimal road noise and tyre vibration.

The only downside is the size of boot which shrinks due to the placement of the battery.

The C 350 e has a smaller 335-litre boot compared with a 480-litre boot in the non-hybrid C-Class.

For more information, click here.

Mercedes-Benz E 350 e

If you want the latest E-Class PHEV sedan then there are three choices to choose from: E 350 e AMG Line, E 350 e Exclusive Line and E 350 e Edition 60.

It features a 2.0-litre turbo four-cylinder engine mated the nine-speed 9G-Tronic automatic transmission producing 208 hp and 350 Nm of torque and an electric motor. The combined output produces 281hp and 550Nm of torque.

The all-electric range is rated at 33km. And the century sprint is achieved at 6.2 seconds.

The E 350 e Exclusive Line is priced from RM392,888 features the classic look while the E 350 e AMG Line (RM395,888) comes with a sporty interior while the E 350 e Edition 60 (RM408,888) is limited to only 60 units, features exclusive and luxurious options including 19-inch 6-spoke light alloy wheels and Exclusive Line interior package.

Standard equipment includes AIR BODY CONTROL, Pre-Entry Climate Control system and an advanced energy recuperation mode for exceptional driving comfort, multibeam LED headlights with adaptive highbeam plus, keyless-go entry and start, thermotronic three-zone climate control, nappa leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats with memory and four-way lumbar support, active parking assist, a 360-degree camera, panoramic sunroof, 64-colour ambient lighting and a powered bootlid, twin 12.3-inch Wide Cockpit display, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, Qi wireless charging and a 13-speaker Burmester sound system.

For more information, click here.

Mercedes-Benz S 400 h AMG line

This is the first locally assembled hybrid luxury saloon which was launched back in 2014 and is now offered in AMG Line trim priced at RM598,888 on-the-road without insurance.

The AMG Line kit includes an AMG bodystyling kit and 19-inch AMG light-alloy wheels, a new three-spoke AMG multi-function sports unit steering wheel and AMG sports pedals.

It is powered by a 3.5 litre V6 CGI engine which pushes out 306hp and 370Nm and is paired with an electric motor integrated between the engine and the 7G-Tronic seven-speed automatic transmission.

The car comes equipped with LED intelligent light system headlamps, an electric panoramic sliding sunroof, an Airmatic suspension system and a Driving Assistance package Plus which includes Distronic Plus with Steering Assist and Stop&Go Pilot, Brake Assist BAS PLUS with Cross-Traffic Assist, Pre-Safe Brake with pedestrian detection, Pre-Safe Plus, Active Lane Keeping Assist and Active Blind Spot Assist.

Inside the cabin are plush appointments like designo brown high-gloss sunburst myrtle wood trim elements, black or brown leather upholstery, a 13-speaker Burmester Surround Sound audio system and a rear seat chauffeur package.

For more information, click here.

Toyota Camry Hybrid

The popular sedan from Toyota received a hybrid powertrain back in 2015 and comes in two variants - 2.5 Hybrid Luxury and 2.5 Hybrid Premium - priced at RM169,900 and RM160,200 respectively.

The 2.4-litre petrol engine produces 160PS and 213Nm of torque of mated to the electronically controlled continuously variable transmission (E-CVT) while the electric motor pushes out 143PS and 270Nm.

For those who enjoy wood trim and leather seats, among other things, while still staying well below the RM200K budget, this is the best bet for you.

The Luxury version comes with 17-inch wheels while the Premium comes with 16inch wheels and the kit list is almost the same except the Premium excludes the automatic rain sensor, wireless charger, 7” touch screen display audio with navigation system, DVD player, tuner, MP3, USB, Bluetooth, reverse camera and JBL speaker.

Safety wise, the Premium lacks the blind spot monitor and rear cross traffic alert but both cars come with seven airbags, anti-lock braking System (ABS) with electronic brake-force distribution (EBD) and brake assist (BA), vehicle stability control (VSC) and traction control (TRC), hill-start assist control (HAC), emergency stop signal and ISOFIX.

Currently, Toyota is offering a promotion of RM7,000 cash rebate + 1 year free service until Dec 31, 2017.

For more information, click here.

Volvo S90 T8 Twin Engine Inscription

The Swedish marque has set its sights on the luxury E-segment sedan market with the recent launch of the plug-in hybrid Volvo S90 T8 Twin Engine which comes in two variants - Inscription and Inscription Plus - priced at RM368,888 and RM388,888 (on-the-road without insurance).

The S90 T8 features a transversely-mounted twin-charged (supercharged and turbocharged) 2.0 litre four-cylinder Drive-E engine mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission with an output of 320hp and 400Nm. This powers is the front wheels while the rear axle is powered by an electric motor with lithium-ion battery.

Standard equipment includes full LED headlamps with Active Bending Lights and LED DRLs, LED taillamps, 19-inch wheels, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, head-up display, a nine-inch touchscreen head unit, leather-wrapped multifunction steering wheel and dual-zone climate control.

Exclusive to the Inscription Plus is the Bowers & Wilkins premium sound system with 19 speakers and a set of electronically-controlled adaptive dampers.

Safety features are abound here with the Volvo Intellisafe pack, beginning with adaptive cruise control with distance monitoring, City Safety with full auto braking, smart detection of cyclists, pedestrians and large animals, Run-off Road Mitigation, Park Assist with Park Assist Pilot (self-parking) and level two Pilot Assist, Blind Spot Information System with Cross Traffic Alert, Lane Keeping Aid, and 360 degree surround view camera.

For more information, click here.

Volvo XC90 T8 Twin Engine

The Volvo XC90 PHEV has been a popular choice of SUVs from the Swedish marque over a decade ago and was updated in 2016 and locally-assembled for competitive pricing at RM403,888 on-the-road without insurance.

This is a seven-seater SUV and introduced the T8 Twin Engine which you now find in the newly released S90 sedan along with signature “Thor’s Hammer” LED DRLs, LED Active Bending Lights and Active High Beam Control headlights, LED Adaptive Brake Lights, dual exhaust tips and a powered tailgate.

The interior gets a Nappa leather upholstery, the three-spoke multi-function steering wheel, a crystal gear knob made by Swedish crystal makers Orrefors, and diamond-cut engine start/stop button and volume control knob, a long nine-inch touchscreen display linked to Volvo’s latest Sensus Connect High Performance audio system interface which controls almost every feature of the car, including the four-zone climate control system, navigation, WiFi hotspot and surround-view camera.

Then there is the 10-speaker sound system, Bluetooth, USB and Aux connectivity, Android and Apple screen mirroring and a 12.3-inch Adaptive Digital Display instrument panel.

The XC90 is powered by 2.0 litre four-cylinder supercharged and turbocharged Drive-E petrol engine and an electric motor.

There is also an eight-speed torque converter automatic transmission.

The engine produces 320hp and 400Nm of torque and is sent to the front wheels while the electric motor drives the rear wheels.

It has a total system output is at 407hp and 640Nm, and both drive units form an electric all-wheel drive system. It has an electric range of 43km.

Safety-wise, it gets seven airbags, Adaptive Cruise Control, City Safety with Front Collision Warning and Pedestrian and Cyclist Detection with Full Auto Brake, Lane Departure Warning, Lane Keeping Aid, Roll Stability Control, Hill Descent Control, the run-off road protection package and the Park Assist Pilot system.

For more information, click here.


Fugitive tycoon Ghosn to star in screen productions

The documentary and six-part series will trace Ghosn's colourful story. — AP
PARIS: Fugitive auto tycoon Carlos Ghosn and his wife will take part in a documentary and a mini-series about his life, co-producers Alef One of France and MBC of Saudi Arabia said Monday.

The ex-Nissan chief was arrested in Japan in November 2018 on financial misconduct charges and spent 130 days in detention, before he dramatically jumped bail and smuggled himself out of the country late last year.

The 66-year-old businessman for the first time appeared in public in Lebanon in January, claiming he was a victim of a plot by Nissan and Japanese officials.

The documentary and six-part series will trace Ghosn's colourful story, "from his status as one of the most powerful bosses in the automobile industry to that of Japan's most wanted fugitive after his escape to Lebanon where he now resides," the producers said.

"Both productions will include exclusive contributions by Carlos and Carole Ghosn," they said in a statement.

Shooting for the documentary started last month in Beirut and is to continue until the end of the year on location in France, Japan and the United States, said the producers, and will include interviews with the Ghosn couple and other key figures.

As director, they hired Briton Nick Green, whose documentary work includes "A Dangerous Dynasty: House of Assad".

The mini-series comprising six one-hour episodes will be based on a screenplay supervised by Mark Goffman, whose was a writer for "The West Wing" and, more recently, the executive producer for the Netflix series "The Umbrella Academy".

The Ghosn series, to be shot in 2021, will be directed by Charlotte Brandstrom, of "Conspiracy of Silence" and "Madam Secretary" fame.


Kia Rio sedan delivers value

                The B-segment Rio is Kia Motors' bestselling global model, and it's easy to see why after we lived with it for three days.

This is the sedan variant with a 389-litre boot, which was launched in Malaysia in January 2016.

The Rio has been a major driver of Kia's success in recent years, as the Korean automaker churned out well-designed, sleek-looking cars with a contantly improving reputation for quality and reliability.

It also helped that Kia cars are known for being packed with nice features.

Now, in this case, you don't get push-start ignition, powered seats, reverse camera, a touchscreen display, automatic air-conditioning or rear air-conditioning vents.

What you do get for RM72,888 on-the-road, are important safety features like six airbags, electronic stability control (ESC), all-round disc brakes, hill assist control (HAC) and a tyre pressure monitoring system.

There's also a cabin that feels spacious, with more than adequate head and legroom for four adults as we discovered when making a 250km round trip from Petaling Jaya, Selangor to Raub and Sungai Klau in Pahang to sample the "king of fruits" during the recent durian season.

The interior is sensibly designed, with decent storage options like a deep centre glovebox and cupholders between front seats, door pockets and a compartment behind the gear stick.

There's a USB port (useful for charging smartphones), and a six-speaker CD/radio/MP3-capable audio system with 800MB of memory and Bluetooth. The tilt and telescopic steering wheel allowed us to better adjust our driving position.

We liked the solid and comfortable fabric seats, dark and sporty theme of the cabin, the signature "three cylinder" instrument cluster, and well-laid out controls and switches.

Running on Hankook Kinergy Eco tyres sized 185/65 R15, the Rio sedan has solid fit and finish, and everything seemed well put together.

The motor-driven power steering is precise, and the cabin was quiet and comfortable during our drive to Sungai Klau.

With a 109ps power output and 137Nm of torque, the car did not feel underpowered even when occupied by four adults on uphill stretches on the Karak Highway.

Power delivery from Kia’s 1.4-litre Gamma DOHC CVVT engine is smooth, via the four-speed automatic transmission.

When driven at 80kph on smooth highways, we noted the engine speed was around 2,000rpm.

At 110kph, the engine speed was around 3,000rpm.

Ride quality is comfort-biased, with a front MacPherson strut and rear torsion beam suspension, and we found it to be quite well-tuned.

The Rio sedan has sporty looks, especially with Kia's signature "tiger-nose grille".

In summary, the Rio sedan is a value-for-money deal that is family-friendly and practical, and definitely does not feel cheap.

It has solid built quality, impressive safety features for the B-segment, and provides smooth and enjoyable motoring.
With a five-year warranty and unlimited mileage package thrown in, the Rio deserves a good look from B-segment sedan buyers.

In terms of price, after-sales warranty, airbag protection and safety features, it certainly outshines the competition.