Lincoln Continental might sport some retro 'suicide doors'

Lincoln has teased a 'suicide door' concept for the next Continental.
DETROIT: "Suicide doors" have long left modern cars unless you're willing to put down a serious wad of cash for a Rolls-Royce.

If you're a fan of these unsafe, but fashionably retro backwards-opening doors, you may be in luck, though: Lincoln has been teasing the resurrection of the concept with a picture of the centre-opening doors of the 1960s Lincoln Continental captioned, "TBT...or is it?"

This is a not-so-subtle hint that the new Continental model will probably sport these rear-hinged doors. But it's going to be difficult for Lincoln to get such a design up to regulatory standards, especially if it's shooting for the pillar-free design; they were discontinued by many manufacturers because of safety issues.

Of course, some models did pass the rigorous testing and were able to keep the doors on some of their production models, like the Rolls-Royce Dawn whose back-hinged front doors were eloquently renamed "coach doors". A Lincoln Continental would be an option for those with a lower price tag in mind.

Given the way the sedan market has been sagging, this feature may draw back some nostalgic customers who have a special place in their heart for retro-styled vehicles.

No details are known yet on how far along in the development process Lincoln is, or if the doors will ever make it onto a production model. With all the major automotive shows coming up in early 2019, we can only hope that the next Continental will make an appearance soon.


Sisma Auto opens premium multi-brand 3S centre

                SHAH ALAM: Sisma Auto has announced the opening of Sisma Auto Hub, its multi-brand 3S centre for customers to buy, sell or service any brand of luxury car, at what was previously the Jaguar Land Rover 3S centre at Glenmarie here.

This follows the recent move by Jaguar Land Rover (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd, a joint venture between Sisma Auto and Sime Darby, to consolidate its retail operations in Malaysia.

The move saw acquisition of dealer assets and transfer of staff from both Sime Darby Auto Connexion and Sisma Auto and the consolidation of retail operations to Ara Damansara, Selangor and Jalan Sultan Ahmad Shah, Penang.

While Sisma Auto still retains significant interest in the Jaguar Land Rover business as a joint venture partner, it now plans to leverage its more than 25 years as a franchise dealer for Jaguar, Land Rover and Volvo to offer the same 3S experience for any brand of luxury car.

Sisma Auto Hub Glenmarie features a 14-car showroom and a 16-bay service centre equipped with the latest tools and diagnostic equipment.

Sisma Auto Hub also sells and services used luxury cars.

Aside from Jaguar Land Rover (Malaysia) and Sisma Auto Hub, the company operates two Volvo outlets – a dealership at Bukit Bintang, Kuala Lumpur, and Selekt Centre in Glenmarie, next to Sisma Auto Hub.

Sisma Auto is opening a flagship Volvo 3S dealership in Sungai Besi, Kuala Lumpur by the end of this year.


It's real! This is the BMW X7 pick-up truck

                MUNICH: What if a BMW X7 becomes a pick-up truck? That is entirely in the realm of possibilities.

Twelve BMW trainees set out to convert the company's biggest crossover into a truck as a one-off exercise that is being showcased today at the BMW Motorrad Days in Garmisch-Partenkirchen, 89km south-west of here.

The trainees made the conversion with help from BMW's Concept Vehicle Construction and Model Technology divisions at its plant here.

The one-off combines the drive technology of the 250 kW/340 hp X7 xDrive40i (fuel consumption combined: 9.0 – 8.7 l/100 km; CO2 emissions combined: 205 – 198 g/km) with the innovative vehicle concept of a five-seater luxury pick-up.

A handcrafted loading area boasting a sophisticated fine-polished wood finish, a height-adjustable two-level air suspension and numerous high-class equipment details make this X7 Pick-up an ideal companion for the diverse day-to-day uses and more.

A BMW F 850 GS – a powerful motorcycle from the adventure segment – on the loading area completes the conversion. Together they are able to reach even the remotest corners of the world.

The length of the loading space varies from 140cm (closed) to 200cm (open). Thanks to the use of carbon reinforced plastics on roof components, rear doors and the rear lid, it was possible to further reduce weight by 200kg vs. the production model, despite a 10cm longer body.

The combination of honey-coloured teakwood and the BMW Individual colour Tanzanite Blue metallic – an exclusive navy blue finish that develops extra depth when exposed to sunlight – was inspired by yachting sports and creates a sophisticated look.

It took the trainees 10 months to turn a concept into a fully functional, road-legal automobile in show car quality.


Do you really need the handbrake or is parking in 'P' enough?

                BERLIN: If you drive an automatic, you might have wondered if it's enough to just put the gearshift in "Park" when you stop the car - or do you also need to engage the handbrake, no matter what?

Safety experts say if the gearshift lever of a vehicle with automatic transmission is in the "P" position, the car will be well secured against rolling away. But they also warn that drivers should also apply the handbrake to be on the safe side.

"The park position should theoretically be sufficient in most cases, since here a locking pin engages mechanically in the gear teeth of the transmission and the vehicle is thus held by the drive wheels," says Reinhard Buchsdruecker from the German testing organisation Dekra.

 Many modern cars have electronic brake that replaces the traditional handbrake.

However, the pin could give way under heavy loading, such as a steep gradient. Older vehicles are particularly vulnerable in colder weather because of a phenomenon known as "brake shoe freezing," which affects vehicles with drum brakes and inadequately protected wire rope hoists.

So the handbrake should therefore always be used, and the users of company cars, in particular, must apply the handbrake.

"Insurance companies and employers' liability insurance associations demand that company car users secure their cars with the handbrake so that they do not unexpectedly start moving and cause an accident", says Buchsdruecker. Depending on your country and insurer, failure to do so can result in the loss of accident insurance coverage.

Buchsdruecker's overall advice once you've parked is to "set the gear lever to P, switch off the engine and apply the handbrake."


Briton in road rage incident charged with criminal intimidation

                KAJANG: A British national was charged with two counts of criminal intimidation in a road rage incident on the North-South Highway at the magistrates' court here Tuesday.

The accused, Mcgruer Kenneth George, 40, a director of an employment agency, pleaded not guilty to both charges.

On the first count, he was charged with threatening a Myvi car driver, Dzulzalali Iqram Osman, 30, an engineer, with the intention to cause injury.

On the second count, he was charged with smashing the windscreen of a Myvi car belonging to Moeznimanwaty Osman, 39.

George was alleged to have committed both offences at Km 305 of the North-South Highway from Kuala Lumpur to Seremban, between 6.24pm and 6.30pm on Oct 25.

In mitigation, the accused who was represented by counsel Diar Isda Yasmin Ismail, appealed to the Court not to confiscate his passport as he required it for company purposes.

Diar Isda Yasmin added that her client had given full cooperation to authorities and has lived in the country since 2002.

Magistrate Aina Azahra Ariffin ordered the accused to surrender his passport and set bail at RM11,000 with two Malaysian sureties for both charges.

She also fixed Dec 4 for mention.

The prosecution was conducted by deputy public prosecutor R. Siamalah.


Toyota Gazoo Racing accessories introduced

                SHAH ALAM: UMW Toyota Motors has unveiled a range of Gazoo Racing (GR) accessories for motorsports fans to add more excitement to their GR Yaris, Vios GR-S, Vios and Yaris.

All parts are exclusively available nationwide at five GR Garages and 39 GR outlets (Toyota dealerships competing in the Vios Challenge racing series).

 Carbon fibre-design dashboard.

The parts are:

1. GR Yaris Front Spoiler with Rear Extension
2. GR Yaris Side Skirt
3. GR Yaris Rear Bumper Spoiler
4. GR Yaris Sports Muffler
5. GR Yaris Interior Panel (Carbon Fibre Design)
6. GR Tyre Valve Cap
7. GR License Plate Lock Bolt
8. GR Push Start Switch Button
9. GR Emblem
10. GR Luggage Mat
11. GR Carpet Mat
12. Stabilizer Bar (Front Strut Bar & Rear Anti-Roll Bar)
13. Sporty Windshield Stripe
14. Sporty Body Stripe
15. Sports Muffler Cutter
16. Illuminated Scuff Plate
17. Premium Wheel Hub Nut (Black Chrome)
18. Interior Panel Package (Carbon Fibre Wrap)
19. TGR Acrylic Plate (Rear)
20. TGR Plate Holder and Acrylic Plate (Front)
21. Black Top Package (Black Paint)
22. Black Wing Mirror Cover (Black Paint)

 Front strut bar. Rear anti-roll bar.

Exclusive to the limited-edition GR Yaris and only available at GR Garages nationwide which are five styling upgrades that include a GR Front Spoiler with Rear Extension; GR Side Skirts; GR Rear Bumper Spoiler; GR Sports Muffler and an GR Interior Panel Set (Carbon Fibre Design).

All other parts are available for the Vios GR-S, Vios and Yaris.

This however, excludes the GR start switch button, GR emblem, GR carpet mat, which already come standard in the Vios GR-S.

 Carbon fibre-design door armrest. Illuminated scuff plate.

Gazoo Racing Malaysia’s Chief Motorsports Officer Akio Takeyama said Gazoo Racing had made tremendous traction in the domestic market since the brand was introduced locally in 2017.

“The brand represents Toyota’s motor-acing activities worldwide, and this has translated into a great number of initiatives locally that include the organising of the Toyota Gazoo Racing Festival, the Vios Challenge one-make race, the Gazoo Racing Velocity Esports Championship, the launch of exclusive GR vehicles, the roll-out of the Vios GR-S in Malaysia and establishing the Gazoo Racing Young Talent Development Program for young racing drivers.

“The availability and sale of GR parts and accessories is a further extension of these initiatives as Toyota steps up its efforts to gain a bigger foothold in Malaysian motorsports,” said Takeyama.

 GR Yaris rear spoiler. GR Yaris luggage mat.

“GR is as much about performance as it is about styling, safety and lifestyle, and this is reflected throughout the introductory list of parts we are making available today,” he added.

UMW Toyota Motor President Ravindran K. said GR Parts would allow customers to add a higher degree of personalisation to their vehicles, especially those who share the passion for motorsports.

“While GR models are a pedigree of its own, the GR brand is not confined to only outright performance. The brand also conveys driving enjoyment and excitement, and this is precisely what customers can look forward to with the availability of these parts and accessories,” said Ravindran.

All GR Parts and accessories come with a one-year warranty and to ensure quality fitment, customers can have the products installed at the respective GR Garages and GR outlets.

The five GR Garages nationwide are Fokus Tetap (Shah Alam, Selangor), PCM Klang Motor (Klang, Selangor), Wing Hin Auto (Balakong, Selangor), Telagamas (Kulim, Kedah) and Mutiara Motorsports (Masai, Johor).

For a complete list of the GR outlets, and for more information, log to UMW Toyota Motor’s website at www.toyota.com.my.


Honda Malaysia's push for one-stop centres part of improving customer service

                PETALING JAYA: Honda Malaysia is maintaining its focus on improving customer experience by expanding the Body & Paint (BP) Centres at its dealerships.

This year, Honda Malaysia has opened six new BP Centres that have commenced operations, bringing the total Honda BP Centres to 28.

The company is committed to enhancing the customer experience at all Honda dealerships including the BP Centres for customers to truly enjoy the Joy of Buying and peace of mind in its after-sales services.

The existence and expansion of BP Centres are in line with the company’s direction to provide convenience to the customers by fulfilling their various needs in just one centre.

Honda Malaysia managing director and chief executive officer Toichi Ishiyama said: “Honda Malaysia is striving to provide more after-sales convenience to our customers by extending the BP Centre footprint.

"We believe the expansion of BP Centres will help Honda Malaysia meet the increasing demand as well as offer high quality after-sales service and benefits to our customers such as skilled technicians and conducive environment."

All dealerships are also equipped with advance facilities and equipment to ensure that customers’ vehicles are well taken care of.

To top it off, Honda Malaysia provides quality products in its BP Centres.

These includes waterborne paint, the revolutionary green product as well as genuine Honda parts that are certified by Honda Motor Co.

Honda Malaysia has maintained consistent sales growth for the past 5 years, which the company saw an average of 30% increase from 2014 to 2018.

The growth also translated to an increase in after-sales service intakes of the company.

As of October 2019, Honda Malaysia recorded over 36,000 BP service intakes, a 40% increase from the BP service intakes in the same period last year.

The rising BP service intakes is attributed to customers’ understanding towards the need of genuine Honda bodyworks, parts as well as paintworks for their Honda cars that ensure quality and long-term use.


In Brazil, Tucson Prime's journey from street dog to car salesman has created an Instagram star

                SERRA (Brazil): In the spotlight in the run-up to the country's presidential election, Brazil's influence keeps expanding in many fields, even the most unexpected.

Now, the internet can't get enough of the incredible story of Tucson Prime. From a stray dog in Brazil to a car manufacturer's mascot on social media, Tucson Prime's life has been a rollercoaster of surprises.

The story of Tucson Prime started when a car dealer, Emerson Mariano, adopted a street dog and turned him into a car salesman.

This took place in Serra, Brazil, at a Hyundai dealership where the animal had taken to hanging around, looking generally good-natured.

After seeing him standing there, in front of his dealership, Emerson Mariano decided to take the dog under his wing — a decision that turned out to be a wise move.

Named Tucson Prime in a nod to a Hyundai vehicle model, the dog quickly became the mascot of the dealership. In Serra, he even became the carmaker's greatest asset in attracting new customers.

His kennel, which today sits among the cars on display, certainly does not go unnoticed, and nor do his strolls through the aisles.

This unusual situation did not escape the attention of Hyundai's marketing department in Brazil, which decided to set up an Instagram profile for the dog.

Once a local curiosity, Tucson Prime quickly became a national star, followed today by nearly 200,000 people.

Becoming a real mascot for the brand, this canine car salesman now shows his Instagram followers the ins and outs of how a dealership operates, just as if he was one of its employees. Like a four-legged influencer, he has also formed several partnerships with institutions and brands related to animals.

Check out Tucson Prime's adventures on Instagram: instagram.com/tucson_prime


Pagani Zonda HP Barchetta unveiled

                SAN FRANCISCO: Lots of exciting and exotic new cars are expected to be unveiled at the Pebble Beach each year, but there are few new models that could claim to be more exotic or more exclusive than the Pagani Zonda HP Barchetta.

It might be a little odd to see another new Zonda as Pagani announced it was stopping the production of the Zonda several years ago, and after many new "last ever" Zondas, this one is once again being touted as the last.

The Pagani Zonda HP Barchetta that was revealed to the world at Pebble Beach over the weekend is one of only three examples that will ever be produced. Company founder Horacio Pagani and his team came up with this latest take on the Zonda to mark Pagani's 60th birthday, and as a tribute to the first car that was produced some 18 years ago.

In some ways, the HP Barchetta is a collection of Zonda's "greatest hits" features and components from over the years — or, if one was to be unkind, something of a Frankenstein creation made up of leftover bits from previous Zonda builds.

The colour scheme is obviously inspired by the launch specifications of the new Pagani Huayra Roadster, and the Frankenstein theme is further endorsed by the right side of the car being fitted with blue wheels while the wheels on the other side are a silver alloy finish.

Other interesting elements include a cropped windshield, carbon-titanium composite components from the Huayra, and seats also borrowed from the Huayra dressed in ivory leather with tartan elements and blue leather highlights.

The steering wheel is also finished with blue leather and wood — the wood being one of a number of elements of the car inspired by classic motorsports.

Powering the HP Barchetta is a Mercedes-AMG V-12 mated to a six-speed manual transmission, with carbon-ceramic Brembo brakes employed to take care of stopping duties.

We're told the weight is 1,250 kg, which is 20 kg heavier than the Zonda F Roadster, but lighter than the Huayra Roadster that weighs-in at 1,280 kg. Further performance figures have not yet been released.


Malaysia still lacks EV charging stations, says ministry

                CYBERJAYA: Malaysia still lack electric vehicle (EV) charging stations to cater for the growing demand of such cars since there are only about 1,000 EV charging stations compared with the 10,000 such stations targeted by 2025, says Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation Chang Lih Kang.

"EV is still new to our market and country. The ecosystem is still not complete because there not enough charging stations. Therefore, manufacturers hesitate to enter the market,” he told reporters after witnessing the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Alibaba Cloud and Agmo Holdings Bhd here on Tuesday.

The cooperation between the two digital platforms is aimed at enabling EV users seeking chargers to identify EV charging stations and the services provided through Agmo EV application that can be downloaded in Android and iOS forms.

The application claims to provide a complete integrated system, which offers cashless payment methods, navigation assistance and rates offered at the respective charging stations.

Chang said his ministry would carry out programmes for the development of the local EV industry with the cooperation of the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry and Tenaga Nasional Bhd.


Volvo gunning for zero traffic deaths

                CHICAGO: Lex Kerssemakers, the head of Volvo's operations in the US said that the only acceptable number of road traffic deaths is "zero".

Addressing the crowds on the opening day of the Chicago Auto Show, Kerssemakers outlined Volvo's ambitious aim — Vision 2020 — the goal of which is to ensure no one travelling in a new Volvo is killed or injured in a crash by the end of the decade.

"It is unacceptable that more than 1.2 million people are killed in traffic annually," Kerssemakers said. "Here in the US, the figure is approximately 33,000 people. Zero is the only acceptable number for us to work towards."

Volvo built its reputation on safety and has been one of the early leaders in the development of semi-autonomous driving systems, technologies the company sees as being crucial to reducing and eventually eliminating deaths caused by road traffic accidents.

The S90 sedan, which is being showcased at the Chicago Auto Show is the first mass-market car to go on sale in the US with a host of semi-autonomous drive features, including highway navigation, as standard. But that is just the beginning.

"At the end of 2017, we will have the largest and world's first fleet of 100 autonomous vehicles in the hands of real customers," Kerssemakers said, referring to Volvo's multi-year autonomous driving tehnology project — Drive Me — currently underway in Gothenburg, Sweden. "It will allow real customer feedback to help develop the first AD cars available to a wider audience. It will also assist authorities to understand how legislation, infrastructure planning and other societal elements will need to develop."

The Chicago show runs from Feb 13-21.


Maserati Ghibli updated for more class and thrills, going for RM619K

                The 2017 Maserati Ghibli sports saloon gets even more luxurious and sporty, with an updated Ferrari-built twin turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 petrol engine that now delivers 350hp, which is 20hp more than its predecessor.

It is priced at RM618,800 with a three-year unlimited mileage warranty.

And if you are concerned about the air quality on the road, fret not as the Ghibli now has Air Quality Sensor, which can calculate external pollution levels and prevent polluted air from entering the cabin.

Updates in the cabin include a large 8.4-inch touchscreen in the central dashboard linked to a new infotainment system that is compatible with both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone mirroring functions.

The central, lower console between the front seats, now has a hosts a rotary knob to control volume and functions, a new lid and a new phone storage compartment.

So, the Ghibli's cabin has quite a busy lower centre console with lots of storage options and control functions.

For better safety on the road, the Ghibli gets the Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) which includes front and rear parking sensors with reversing camera, Surround View Camera, Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop and Go, Forward Collision Warning, Lane Departure Warning System, Blind Spot Alert and Rear Cross Path Detection.

Parking the Ghibli is now much easier with the Surround View Camera system, which uses four cameras to provide a 360-degree view around the car on a top-down image.

Available from Naza Italia, the official importer and distributor for Maserati in Malaysia, the rear-wheel drive Ghibli carries a high price tag.

Rivals include the Jaguar XF, BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe, Audi A7 Sportback and the Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class saloon.

However, potential buyers should take note of its mighty 3.0-litre V6 twin turbocharged petrol engine that produces a blistering 350hp and 500Nm of torque.

Power is delivered via a smooth and efficient 8-speed ZF automatic transmission, which now features the Start and Stop function.

The 350hp Ghibli can do the 0 to 100kph sprint in just 5.5 seconds.

Built together with the Maserati Quattroporte on the same production line at the Avvocato Giovanni Agnelli plant in Grugliasco near Turin, the Ghibli also shares parts of its core architecture - chassis, suspension layout, V6 engines - with the flagship Italian saloon.

There's no lack of premium kit here, and you get nice kit like dual-zone automatic climate control, a space saving electronic parking brake, powered front seats with two memory settings for the driver's side, posh leather seat upholstery, and a 900W 10-speaker Harman Kardon audio system.

Amid all the modern gadgetry in the cabin, there is still some old school charm with an analogue clock with the Trident emblem positioned on the top centre of dashboard.

It is a plush, well-appointed cabin with lots of practicality like rear air-conditioning vents, four door bins and an assortment of cup holders and cubbyholes for small items.

We really like the deep centre storage box with two cup holders (can fit two 600ml water bottles placed upright), and it's also where you can find a chiller function to cool drinks, and 180W power outlet.

A spacious 500-litre boot and 60/40 folding rear seats add more utility.

Running on high-performance Pirelli P Zero tyres sized 245/45 (front) and 275/40 (rear) wrapped around 19-inch alloy wheels, the Ghibli can be a smooth, refined executive drive or a sporty, engaging and aggressive creature.

Drive modes include an "Auto Sport" mode with sporty gear engagement, and there's also the Skyhook adaptive damping system where at the press of a button, ride comfort and damping stiffness can be adjusted.

You get the thrilling full-bodied exhaust growl of a 3.0-litre V6 twin-turbo powered Italian stallion from the quad exhausts when putting the car through its paces on an empty highway stretch.

The Ghibli's speed-sensitive, servo-powered hydraulic steering is precise and communicative, and throttle response is sharp.

While we did not push the Maserati too hard, we certainly enjoyed its composed handling at speed which is expected, given its sophisticated engineering, ideal 50:50 weight distribution, double-wishbone front and five-bar multi-link rear suspension set-up, and the standard limited slip differential.

With the 2017 updates and more safety features, the Ghibli continues to be an exciting, engaging drive with plenty of leather-clad luxury and high-tech driver assistance systems.

Maserati Ghibli (2017 model) Engine: 2,979cc V6 twin turbo petrol
Maximum power: 350hp at 5,500rpm
Maximum torque: 500Nm at 1,750rpm to 4,500rpm
Transmission: 8-speed automatic from ZF
Acceleration (0 to 100kph): 5.5 seconds
Features: Seven airbags, front and rear parking sensors with reversing camera, surround view camera, Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop and Go, Forward Collision Warning, Lane Departure Warning System, Blind Spot Alert, Rear Cross Path Detection, Brake Assistance System (BAS), Maserati Stability Program (MSP), Tyre Pressure Monitoring System, rear ISOFIX fittings for child seats.
Price: RM618,800 (excludes road tax, insurance and registration); three-year unlimited mileage warranty


Sunsuria inks MoU with China's IAT for EV development

                KUALA LUMPUR: Sunsuria Bhd is exploring a collaboration with China's IAT Automobile Co Ltd to undertake research and development in electric vehicle (EV) and EV-related products.

In a filing with Bursa Malaysia, the company said the tie-up would involve the creation and manufacturing of Malaysia's own brand of EV with cutting-edge technological advances.

According to the filing, IAT is China's largest independent car design company.

Sunsuria IAT (M) Sdn Bhd is a joint venture that is 51% owned by Sunsuria and 49% held by IAT.

"The MoU will allow the company an opportunity to collaborate with IAT to tap into the research and development in in the area of EV and EV-related products and to provide automotive education (college), talent cultivation for Malaysia and South East Asia to enhance operational efficiency.

"The MoU is part of the series of foreign direct investments with total commitment of RM170 billion in investments from China, which was secured in conjunction with Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s visit to China," it said.


India guards against virus at car show dominated by Chinese firms

                NEW DELHI: India’s biennial auto show that kicks off this week is set to be dominated by Chinese automakers showcasing cutting-edge electric vehicles and connected cars — but with booths staffed only by Indian employees and representatives.

With the death toll from a new coronavirus outbreak in China nearing 500 and cases of the disease spreading across the globe, organisers of the show are reassuring visitors that officials arriving from China will not be in attendance.

“There will be no visitors or delegations from China at the Motor Show 2020,” Rajan Wadhera, president of Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM) — which is organising the show — said in a statement on Tuesday.

Chinese companies have confirmed their booths would be staffed by Indian representatives or employees, he said.

Chinese automakers SAIC Motor Corp Ltd, Great Wall Motor Co Ltd and FAW Haima are set to showcase cars including electric vehicles, while over 300 Chinese autoparts companies are also due to participate.

With India this week identifying a third positive case of the virus in the country, SIAM has also printed advisories for visitors and set up an on-site first aid facility in partnership with a local hospital.

The Automotive Component Manufacturers Association of India (ACMA), which is organising a parallel exhibition for autoparts companies, late on Tuesday said visitors from China would not be attending and that displays of some 30 Chinese exhibitors would be staffed by Indian representatives as a precaution.

Chinese auto firms have been working to woo Indian buyers with Internet-connected cars, filling a breach left by Western and Japanese manufacturers including Fiat Chrysler Automobiles NV, Honda Motor Co Ltd and Nissan Motor Co Ltd, which will not participate in this year’s show.

They also hope India’s market can help combat slowing sales in China, which fell 8% in 2019 and are set to decline again in 2020.

Suzuki Motor Corp and Hyundai Motor Co have long dominated India’s market with low-priced compact cars, and have in recent years expanded into other categories.

Chinese automakers do not plan to compete in the entry-level segment, instead appealing to drivers with in-car technology, safety features and clean energy vehicles.

Great Wall, which is making its India debut at the show, intended to bring over 100 delegates but all have cancelled, including the president, a local executive said.

“The first and most important thing is the safety of people. Once this situation is taken care of, our senior executives will come to India,” said marketing and sales director Hardeep Brar.


Audi connect SIM for European customers

                INGOLSTADT: Audi is now equipping its new models that use the second-generation modular infotainment platform with the Audi connect SIM. The factory-installed SIM card offers customers the advantage of being able to immediately use the wide range of Audi connect services with the accompanying data flat rate both domestically and abroad.

The Audi connect SIM is a permanently installed SIM card, known as an embedded SIM or eSIM, which customers in Europe will receive in combination with the optional Audi connect equipment package. This transforms the car into a mobile communication centre. The SIM card brings Audi connect services on board via an LTE/UMTS module with a download speed of up to 100 MBit/s.

Services include navigation with Google Earth and Google Street View, travel, traffic and parking information. In addition, drivers can access their Twitter and e-mail accounts and their smartphone’s calendar. The new SIM card contains an unlimited data volume for using these services. Another advantage is that in most European countries, the Audi connect SIM automatically accesses the provider for each specific country, as needed. This eliminates high, country-specific roaming charges and inconvenient roaming confirmations for the customer.

Later this year, customers will be able to buy additional data packages for the Wi-Fi hotspot, independent of the integrated Audi connect services. It allows all passengers to surf the Internet at attractive rates with up to eight mobile devices. If a customer selects a European data package, the data transfer also automatically works accordingly when crossing an international border – and thus when changing Internet provider – at fixed prices.

Customers will be able to reach the online shop of Audi partner Cubic Telecom through their myAudi account. After a one-time registration, they will be able to obtain the data package for the Wi-Fi hotspot from this shop. Once the required access is granted in the online shop, data packages can be quickly bought directly through the MMI system in the car. Customers may also continue to use their own SIM card in the car and establish Wi-Fi internet access through their own cellular provider. In this case, the data volume used by Audi connect services will also be charged to the customer’s SIM card and the Audi connect SIM temporarily deactivated.

With Audi connect, use is included for three months or, for an additional fee, for three years. After this, customers can ask their Audi service partner to extend access for a fee.

The Audi connect embedded SIM is used in all new models that include the second generation of the modular infotainment platform. These are currently the Audi A3, the A4, the Audi Q2 and the Q7. Other model series will follow. The Audi TT, the R8, the A6 and the A7 are currently excluded from this new offer.

The offer is the first result of a collaboration between Audi and the Irish company Cubic Telecom, a supplier of seamless worldwide connectivity solutions.


Genesis names new global head

                SEOUL: Genesis has announced the appointment of Mike (Min Kyu) Song as its global head and his promotion to executive vice president, effective Jan 1, 2023.

In addition to his new role, Song will continue to serve as COO leading all aspects of the business worldwide. He will be responsible for accelerating Genesis' global presence.

Song joined Genesis in January 2020 to lead global sales, achieving significant growth in product volume and profitability. He was appointed chief operating officer in September 2021 and has played a leading role in strengthening global business operations, elevating the brand's awareness as a top player in the luxury automotive market.

Prior to joining the Genesis brand, Song built an extensive automotive career spanning three decades at Hyundai Motor Company. Since joining the company in 1993, he has held key positions in Hyundai’s offices in North America and the Middle East, ultimately assuming the role of Head of Hyundai Motor Middle East and Africa.


Facelifted Perodua Axia launched

                SHAH ALAM: The refreshed Perodua Axia was launched today, promising even more fuel efficiency.

The compact car has added variable valve timing (VVT-i) to its 1.0 litre 1KR-VE engine, endowing it with the ability to achieve better fuel economy at 22.5km per litre.

The engine also benefits from a slight increase in power and torque by 1hp and 1Nm respectively, and now produces  67hp at 6,000rpm and 91Nm at 4,400rpm.

The new Axia was unveiled at the MYPerodua Nation carnival, which is being held at Aeon Mall here from Jan 20 to Jan 23.

The Axia looks different now as it has undergone cosmetic changes to the front fascia with two different looks across its four variants.

The entry-level variants - Standard E and Standard G - features a newly styled front grille identified by the single silver bar running across it and a bumper design along with projector headlamps for a bold appearance. Another addition here is the tailgate handle at the rear for all variants.

 The new facelifted Axia Standard G variant.

The Standard E comes with a manual 5-speed transmission only is priced at RM24,900 and the Standard G has a manual option at RM34,900 and automatic at RM36,900.

The pricier versions of the Axia, the SE and Advance, now features a completely new and slimmer grille with two chrome bars as opposed to the previous "open-mouth" look.

It also has newly designed projector headlamps and bumper and more chrome around the front foglamps and doorhandles. The SE and Advance also get side skirtings and 14in spiral design alloy rims.

 Push start button on SE and Advance variants.

Both variants now comes with push start/stop button and smart entry system with smart key. While the top-of-the range Advance has the additional multimedia system with 'Smart Link' for Android devices.

The Axia SE (manual) is priced at RM37,900 while the automatic is priced at RM39,900. The Advance is available in automatic only is priced at RM42,900.

 The interior of the Axia Advance.

All prices are on-the-road with insurance.

In a related development, the grand prize winner of Perodua's 'Test Drive and Win" SMS contest was announced at the event. Law Soon Hee, 26, received his prize of a new Bezza 1.3L Advance variant.

Present at the event were Datuk Dr Zahari Husin, Managing Director of Perodua Sales Sdn Bhd, Masanori Takahashi, President of Perodua Auto Corporation Sdn Bhd, Datuk (Dr) Aminar Rashid Salleh, President & CEO of Perodua, Tan Sri Asmat Kamaludin, Chairman of Perodua, Datuk Dr Nik Norzrul Thani Nik Hassan Thani, Chairman of Perodua Sales Sdn Bhd, Datuk Ahmad Suhaimi Hashim, President of Perodua Global Manufacturing Sdn Bhd and Datuk Zainal Abidin Ahmad, Vice President Perodua Auto Corporation Sdn Bhd.

 The 1.0 litre engine now comes with variable valve timing, VVT-i.


Automakers aren’t doing enough to cut emissions, says whistleblower

                BERLIN: European automakers are still not doing enough to cut carbon gas emissions, the non-governmental organisation that blew the whistle on the pollution-cheating scandal at Volkswagen complained on Wednesday.

Five months after exposing the German auto giant for installing so-called defeat devices in its diesel engines, the International Council on Clean Transportation said the sector as a whole was still lagging in its efforts to curb pollution.

And Europe’s attempts to regulate in this area were too timid, ICCT said.

The VW scandal was “an extreme case, but higher emissions are the norm” in the automobile sector, said Vicente Franco, of ICCT’s Berlin office.

“No manufacturer is perfect.”

It was ICCT which uncovered the “dieselgate” scam in September, sending shockwaves around the automobile sector all over the world and drove VW into its deepest-ever crisis.

The German group deliberately installed the devices into 11 million diesel vehicles worldwide with the aim of getting around emissions regulations, notably in the United States.

While the scandal had raised awareness of the subject, automakers had “come up with answers that point towards loopholes in regulation rather than technical answers,” Franco said.

“Regulatory proposals for RDE (real diesel emissions) recently are an improvement, a step in the right direction, but insufficient,” he said.

Franco was speaking at a round-table discussion on the VW scandal organised by the environmentalist Green party in German parliament.


BMW confirms recall of 323,700 cars across Europe

                MUNICH: BMW on Wednesday confirmed it would recall 323,700 cars across Europe due to a faulty component that could cause engines to catch fire.

Just under a third - 96,300 - of the affected vehicles are in Germany, while 75,000 are in Britain, said a BMW spokesman.

Some 23,500 cars in France and 24,700 in Italy are also hit.

The Europe-wide recall came after the company was forced to take back more than 100,000 cars in South Korea over the problem.

BMW also had to apologise as more than 30 of its vehicles caught fire this year there.

The car giant blamed a faulty component called the exhaust gas recirculation cooler that generated excessive sediment and caused engines to catch fire "in rare cases".

In Europe, the recall covers a wide range of four cylinder diesel models produced between April 2015 and September 2016, as well as six cylinders manufactured between July 2012 and June 2015.

BMW said it did not yet have an estimate of the cost of the recall, as it would depend on how many cars would require replacements of faulty components following checks.


Focus on road safety must shift to entire system, says US agency

                DETROIT: The new chairman of the US National Transportation Safety Board wants governments and businesses to change the way they look at highway safety, considering the whole system rather than individual driver behaviour.

Jennifer Homendy, nominated by President Joe Biden earlier this year, said such an approach works in aviation, where there were no US fatalities last year.

On the roads, there were 38,680 deaths nationwide, the greatest number since 2007.

More than 8,700 motor vehicle deaths were reported in the first three months of 2021, up 10.5% from a year earlier. At the same time, vehicle miles travelled declined.

"The current approach, which favours automobiles and punishes only drivers for crashes, is clearly not working,” she said Monday in remarks prepared for a speech to the Governors Highway Safety Association conference in Denver.

"If we are going to get to zero, we will have to do something different.”

Homendy used speeding as an example of the "Safe System Approach” to road safety.

Rather than focusing solely on drivers, she questioned whether the whole system failed.

She asked whether road designs encourage high speeds, or whether "ill-conceived” federal guidance has led to increasing speed limits in states.

She also asked about states that take away the ability of local authorities to set lower speed limits and "manufacturers who design vehicles that can exceed 100mph or that have no speed limiters.”

Speeding-related crashes rose 11% last year, she said, with troopers in her home state of Virginia posting images on social media of tickets to speeding drivers, one for going 185kph in an area with a 88kph speed limit.

She told the group of state and territorial highway safety officials that speed limits and laws against impaired driving still have to be enforced.

But she said enforcement alone can't make the roads safer.

Homendy called on road designers, public health officials, governors, vehicle makers, transportation providers and communities to share a new vision. "The carnage on our roads has to stop. You know it, and I know it,” she said.

The NTSB investigates road crashes and other transportation incidents, but it has no regulatory authority.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration regulates vehicles, while the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration regulates trucking companies. The Federal Highway Administration is responsible for roadways.


Goodyear launches new range of Eagle F1 and Asymetric tyres

                PETALING JAYA: Goodyear Malaysia has recently unveiled its latest addition to the Eagle F1 family, the SuperSport RS, SuperSport R, SuperSport, Asymmetric 5 and the Asymmetric 3 SUV.

The launch in Malaysia comes after Goodyear’s recent sponsorship of three participating teams in the World Endurance Championship also known as Le Mans, Jota Sport, Jackie Chan DC Racing and High Class Racing.

The Eagle F1 SuperSport was developed for better grip and handling on the road. Through the usage of an innovative U-shaped compound, the Eagle F1 SuperSport Series has specialised power zones which creates pockets of control for superior wet and dry handling.

The Eagle F1 Asymmetric 5 offers luxurious comfort and superior wet braking. The specialised thread design and Impulse Control Compound Technology, a highly refined silica compound, allow the tyre to endure the force of high-speed braking, shortening the braking distance.

For larger cars and SUVs, the Eagle F1 Asymmetric 3 SUV is designed to be sturdy while promoting better fuel consumption due to its low rolling resistance.

It is also capable of shortening braking distance through ActiveBraking Technology, in any condition.

"We continue to innovate to bring cutting-edge technology and differentiated features to our tyres. The most important aspect is that motorsports allows us to test our capabilities and push our limits so that we can eventually achieve excellent technology transfer and utilise development experience from the tracks to the road,” said Managing Director of Goodyear Malaysia, Alex Ng.

In addition to this series, Goodyear will be announcing a brand new tyre in 2020.


Renault F1 team to be named Alpine from 2021 F1 season

                PARIS: Renault will rename its team Alpine from the 2021 season, the Formula One team said in a statement on Sunday.

The team will take on the new name and also have a new colour scheme with the French national colours of red, white and blue replacing yellow and black.

"Alpine is a beautiful brand, powerful and vibrant, that brings a smile to the faces of its followers," new chief executive Luca de Meo said in a statement.

"By introducing Alpine, a symbol of French excellence, to the most prestigious of the world's automotive disciplines, we are continuing the adventure of manufacturers in a renewed sport.

"We are bringing a dream brand alongside the biggest names, for spectacular car races made and followed by enthusiasts. Alpine will also bring its values to the F1 paddock: elegance, ingenuity, and audacity."

Loss-making Renault, under De Meo, had announced a new organisational structure focused on core brands rather than geographical regions, with Renault F1 team principal Cyril Abiteboul overseeing one of the four divisions.


Renault's latest Megane Sedan has a panoramic roof

PARIS: Renault has unveiled a new Megane Sedan, a four-door version of its famous hatch with an opening panoramic glass roof, an unusual feature for a vehicle in this market segment.

The front of the car inherits the same new signature style as other recent Renaults, but the Megane Sedan stands out with its panoramic glass sliding sunroof. Linking the windshield to the rear window, this creates a stylish two-tone effect. The sedan also comes with a hands-free Easy Trunk Access system.

This new Megane Sedan is announced with a multitude of high-end features, including a 7-inch colour TFT digital counter, a colour head-up display, Easy Park Assist, the R-LINK 2 multimedia tablet and Multi-Sense driving modes. It features driving aids such as Advanced Emergency Braking System, Lane Departure Warning, etc.

Depending on the country of sale, Renault will equip this model with two petrol engines (SCe 115 and TCe 130) and three diesel engines (dCi 90, dCi 110 and dCi 130).

The new Megane Sedan joins the standard Megane hatchback and the Megane Estate.

The 2016 Megane Sedan will be sold in the following countries: Algeria, Saudi Arabia, Australia, Bulgaria, Croatia, Egypt, United Arab Emirates, Estonia, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Israel, Latvia, Lebanon, Lithuania, Morocco, Poland, Czech Republic, Romania, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Tunisia, Turkey and Ukraine.


EU needs to up EV support to fend off Chinese competition, says climate group

                LONDON: The European Union needs to provide more regulatory incentives for its carmakers to scale up fully electric vehicle (EV) production or risk losing market share to Chinese rivals, according to a study by climate group Transport & Environment.

In the T&E report From boom to brake: is the e-mobility transition stalling? released today, the group said that EV sales growth in the bloc had slowed, with fully-electric cars making up 11% of sales in the first half of 2022 when historical trends suggested they should have reached 13%.

In the meantime, Chinese carmakers including BYD and Great Wall Motor are looking to gain a foothold in the EU and have recently scored high safety ratings for their EVs.

T&E estimates Chinese-made EVs accounted for 5% of fully-electric car sales in the EU in the first half of this year and could have an 18% share of the market by 2025.

The EU is currently negotiating a proposed package of climate proposals, which includes an effective ban on the sale of new fossil-fuel vehicles from 2035.

T&E said to further stimulate European EV production, the EU should stick to the ban, oppose any exemptions for synthetic fuels in cars, remove an emissions benchmarking system from 2025 and use EU funds and national policies to accelerate the scale-up of EV production.

"The failure of EU carmakers to scale up...supply could result in foreign automakers offering affordable models and capturing a large share of the mass market in Europe," the report said.

"If the EU is unable to efficiently regulate its own market, it risks losing its economic sovereignty in the automotive industry."


Perodua in no rush to produce electric cars

                TOKYO: Perodua has no immediate plans to produce electric cars in Malaysia due to the lack of charging infrastructure to support such vehicles on local roads.

The company’s substantial shareholder Daihatsu Motor Co Ltd yesterday unveiled its concept electric vehicle (EV) at the Tokyo Motor Show 2017.

According to Perodua Auto Corp Sdn Bhd vice-president Datuk Zainal Abidin Ahmad, Malaysia does not have “sufficient infrastructure” to enable Perodua to manufacture such electric vehicles (EVs).

“Both hybrid cars and EVs will require sufficient infrastructure in terms of charging facilities and the range of lithium ion batteries which are not fully available in Malaysia currently,” he told reporters at the sidelines of the Tokyo Motor Show 2017.

Zainal pointed out that a study on the impact of producing EVs and the market requirement in Malaysia will be carried out given Perodua’s confidence in the EVs once sufficient infrastructure is being put in place.

 There's still a lot of life left in conventional engines as represented by the Bezza.

“The EV is a totally different powertrain. We haven’t done any studies or come out with any ideas on what we want to do for the future generation power train,” added Zainal.

Moving forward, he said Perodua would continue to focus on boosting the efficiency of its internal combustion engine capabilities via improvement in technology. The company is currently undertaking a study on how to improve the fuel consumption of its engines.

Zainal noted that: “I would rather focus on our bread and butter, which is the internal combustion engine capabilities that is energy efficient, maximising the efficiency of fuel consumption by enhancing technology.

Perodua’s Bezza, the first energy efficient vehicle’s fuel consumption reaches up to 22.8km per litre for its manual transmission, while its automatic transmission can travel up 21.3 km per litre.

 A Li-ion battery for a car.

For Malaysia to produce EVs, Malaysia Automative Institute chief executive officer Datuk Madani Sahari said it is important to own the technology of producing its own lithium ion batteries as “this component could incur cost up to 40% of an electric vehicle”.

Currently, the automotive sector in Malaysia is moving towards the commercialisation of the lithium ion battery. The commercialisation is expected to start in the first quarter of 2018.

Another key infrastructure needed to produce EVs in the country is the charging stations for electric cars.

By 2020, Malaysia is targeting to have a total of 100,000 electric cars. For the national carmakers to produce EVs, Madani said that cost competitiveness of the lithium ion batteries is vital. He also predicted that the prices of EVs will mature in the next 10 years in Malaysia.

“The national carmakers will start to produce EV cars when their business plans make sense in terms of cost competitiveness and wide availability of the charging stations.”

“It’s a chicken and egg situation, the government is taking the initiatives under the two pronged strategies (producing lithium ion battery and EV charging stations), so we can enable the introduction of EVs,” he added.


First drive: Mercedes S 500 plug-in hybrid

                Talk about Scandinavia, and deep fjords, steep mountains and the Northern Lights come readily to mind. Toss in a certain Mercedes-Benz into the mix and it's a tale waiting to be unravelled.

We were in Denmark and Sweden in September to size up the Mercedes-Benz S 500 plug-in hybrid (PIH), the third of its kind after the S 400 and S 300 BlueTEC hybrids.

The S 500 PIH, available only in long wheelbase form, is billed as blending an ultra-modern hybrid drive and emission-free mobility, with unique innovations and luxurious equipment.

Before we get into the drive – a few points to note on what could well be the benchmark in plug-in hybrids. There is no V8 under the bonnet.

The luxury limousine is instead powered by a 3.0-litre V6, which puts out 333hp from 5,250-6,000rpm. Add another 113hp, courtesy of the electric motor mated to the petrol engine and you get a system output in excess of 442hp.

The combination of these two elements will take you 100km on a mere 2.8 litres of petrol.

With a fully charged battery, the S500 PIH will waft you on electrons to a distance of 33km at speeds up to 140kph, with the sound of tyres on tarmac only heard when a window is open.

Given that the owner of this car (in this country) would probably be found sitting on the rear seats of the ultra-luxurious rear, the driver’s day off can only be an opportunity to enjoy the performance of a hi-tech vehicle behind its steering wheel.

And when you’re done wafting along on electricity, pushing your foot further down activates probably the finest machine in the Plug-In Hybrid class, yet.

A muted but reassuring roar from the high-pressure injection engine boosted by twin turbos slingshots you from standstill to 100kph in 5.2 seconds, and further on to an electronically-limited top speed of 250kph.

All this while the S 500 PIH’s emissions are kept at a comforting 65g per CO2/km.

Contributing to energy recovery is the haptic accelerator pedal that can signal via a double impulse when the driver should take his foot off the accelerator for sailing and recuperating. During electric operation, it can supply the driver with feedback on the switch-on point of the combustion engine. The energy flow is shown in all operating states in the instrument cluster and in the central display, if this is selected.

Daimler AG chose the test drive for the S 500 PIH from Copenhagen, Denmark, to Malmo in Sweden mainly because these locations are dotted with electric charging points.

Adding to the eco-credentials of such charging points is the fact that power for them come from the numerous wind farms at sea and on land.

Speaking of charging, the car's charging port is located in the rear bumper below the right tail lamp. An automatic lock ensures that the cable cannot be separated from the vehicle by unauthorised persons.

The  high-voltage  lithium-ion battery, fitted above the rear axle of the S-Class to save space, takes from two hours to four hours to be fully charged.  While power can come from either a station or household socket, Mercedes-Benz does say that the supply of electricity to the car will be made even easier in future through inductive, cableless charging.

To dispel notions that such advanced technology are unreliable, Mercedes-Benz vouches that the battery and plug-in components such as the electric motor and power electronics would work as advertised. It's willing to guarantee their performance for the first six years or 100,000km mileage. So you are covered.

When on the move in electric mode, the car just wafts along. Press gently on the accelerator and the car responds instantly while seeming to whisper “efficiency” as we silently glided among conventional “noise-makers”.

It’s so hush in the cabin that classical music fans will hear every instrument in the orchestra. Even before you get in, the car can be set up to be air-conditioned to the preset temperature. Not only is the cabin thereby cooled, seats are also ventilated to avoid scorched butts.

We eventually reached a highway that led to a tunnel under the Oresund Strait and then out onto a bridge and into Sweden.

It was then that we decided to have a bit of fun. With drive mode switched to “S”, we floored the accelerator.

We hit triple digit speeds without much fuss and the engine issued a muted growl and turned traffic to a warp-speed blur.

While focused on the frightening speed, we weren’t paying attention to the GPS and nearly missed an exit, which was taken in the nick of time followed by a quick decision to test the lateral G-forces as we entered a wide parabolic turn.

It was reassuring to see the car stuck to the road like glue. The throttle was eased off as we turned into a deserted road and traversed a picturesque scenery.

The car felt solid and certain through the gentle curves and shallow rises and didn’t feel as though we were commanding over two tonnes of lumbering machinery.

At this point, it was time to emulate the typical Malaysian flagship Mercedes owner.

This writer sat in the rear while a reporter from another publication took over the wheel.

Sitting in the back was like gently falling into a soft cocoon of heavenly decadence made of plush leather.

Recline the seat, and you will be staring through glass sunroofs. And behind each front seat were two 10-inch flat display panels operated by a remote control stored below the armrest. We sailed  through the Swedish countryside as we watched broadcast television in Danish and Swedish.

Not understanding the lingo, we switched to radio and settled for classical music through a Burmester 3D surround sound system with 24 loudspeakers, 24 amplifier channels and a total system output of 1,540 watts.

And that’s not the end of everything that can be said of this car.

It comes with a whole arsenal of safety features such as the collision warning system - Collision Prevention Assist Plus with Adaptive Brake Assist and even a wrong-way warning function among other things.

These days, performance and economy are two things that can actually go together.

Add luxury and consideration for the environment and it’s a formula for a vehicle that is truly a class above the rest.

If you want this plug-in hybrid, you can order it through Mercedes-Benz Malaysia. Be prepared to fork out 109,000 euros (RM443,000)  for starters on top of hefty taxes. — AHMAD MUNIR SABKI

Click Mercedes-Benz Hybrid Strategy (pdf format)


Daimler brings SUV to luxury Maybach brand's portfolio

                GUANGZHOU: Daimler plans to sell luxury Maybach brand’s first sport-utility vehicle, its China chief executive, Hubertus Troska, said on Thursday, joining other luxury brands that offer SUV models to attract customers from China and the United States.

Daimler plans to roll out the Mercedes-Maybach GLS model, which is based on the Mercedes GLS-Class SUV, in the second half of 2020, Troska said, adding China is Mercedes-Maybach’s biggest market.

The move comes one day after James Bond’s carmaker of choice, Aston Martin, rolled out its first SUV model, the DBX. Luxury carmakers from Rolls-Royce to Lamborghini launched ultra-luxury SUV models in the past year to boost their brand’s overall profitability.

In 2012, Daimler, which owns the Mercedes-Benz brand, stopped making Maybach’s iconic long limousines after the vehicles, which were based on a unique design and cost around US$380,000, failed to sell heavily enough.

At the time, Maybach vehicles were marketed as a separate brand from Mercedes-Benz. Among the owners were oligarchs, rap stars, and royals including Russia’s Roman Abramovich, musician Jay-Z and King Juan Carlos of Spain.

When the joint Mercedes-Maybach brand was launched in 2014, Ola Kaellenius, then the Mercedes-Benz executive responsible for marketing and sales, said the brand was expected to sell well in China, the United States, Russia and Japan.

At the Shanghai autoshow this year, Daimler’s Troska said demand for Maybachs was more than 600 a month in China.

From the first glimpse of the model, one can't help but notice the extreme opulence of the Mercedes-Maybach GLS,  thanks to the plethora of glossy chrome detailing and the extravagant two-tone paint job.

While the V8 engine -- which is paired with hybrid EQ Boost system -- is not the star component of the model, it still delivers a respectable 550hp and 731Nm of torque. Behind the hood, however, is where the SUV earns the Mercedes-Maybach designation.

The back seats, which have a touchscreen display fitted between them, can recline electronically and the padded areas -- as well as dash -- are finished with Nappa leather. A sliding and tilting sunroof comes standard, as do seats with heating and massaging capabilities. Available upon request is a center console with extending tables and a refrigerator "with space for champagne bottles," and a fragrance designed especially for the model.

In the front, the dash is also outfitted with a touchscreen display that appears to be floating. The MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) is powered with artificially intelligent technology that has the ability to get smarter over time.

The components that are not covered in leather are finished in chrome, wood, or rose gold coloring to create an "ambience from the yachting world." LED optical fibers can be found throughout the front and back of the interior and are integrated into the roof liner as part of the ambient lighting system.

If a client desires, the SUV can be even further enhanced with the addition of various accessory and technology packages.

The price is expected to be just as out of this world as the luxuriousness. — Reuters/Relaxnews


'Eleanor' voted most popular movie car to drive in the UK

                LONDON: According to Trackdays.co.uk, the iconic Shelby Mustang GT500 - nicknamed Eleanor from the movie Gone in 60 Seconds (2000), starring Nicolas Cage, has been voted as the most popular.

The website allows people to experience the silver screen action behind the wheel with the summer blockbuster in full swing.

“It’s great to see that the awesome Shelby Mustang GT500 Eleanor is crowned the celluloid champion and it appears that blockbusters like Gone in 60 Seconds and the incredible Fast and Furious films are inspiring people to experience these awesome motors for themselves," said TrackDays.co.uk operations manager Imran Malek.

“Indeed, while thousands of people head to the cinema this summer holiday to catch the latest blockbuster, thrill-seekers are making tracks to their closest race circuit to drive a movie car for real!”

Meanwhile, taking second place was the Ford Escort RS MK1 from the movie Fast & Furious 6 (2013) and is currently also being enjoyed at race circuits across the UK.

The final podium spot and the most modern car making up the top three is the Audi R8, loved by Tony Stark played by Robert Downey Jr in Iron Man and also loved by Brits putting the pedal to the metal.

Further down the leaderboard in sixth place is the ultra-stylish Aston Martin DB5, probably the most famous James Bond car which cemented its place in movie history when it starred alongside Sean Connery in Goldfinger (1964).

Meanwhile, two Japanese carmakers also made an appearance in the top 10 with fifth position going to the Nissan GT-R R35 which plays a starring role in the blockbuster Furious 7 (2015).

Going back to the start of The Fast and the Furious franchise, which began in 2001, it was the Toyota Supra that took 10th spot as the most popular.

“Going to the cinema is great fun but for some people simply watching the on-screen action just isn’t enough. They want to experience the thrills behind the wheel like their film idols and driving a movie car at a race circuit is the next closest thing,” added Imran.
Shelby Mustang GT500 Eleanor (Gone in 60 Seconds)Ford Escort RS MK1 (Fast & Furious 6)Audi R8 (Iron Man)Shelby Cobra (Bad Boys)Nissan GT-R R35 (Furious 7)Aston Martin DB5 (Goldfinger)Dodge Challenger Hellcat (The Fate of the Furious)Ford Mustang GT Stage 3 ROUSH (Transformers)Dodge Charger (The Dukes of Hazzard)Toyota Supra (The Fast and the Furious)


Peugeot Kota Kinabalu is now open

                PETALING JAYA: Nasim Sdn Bhd, the official distributor for Automobiles Peugeot in Malaysia, has launched its latest 3S outlet in the country, Peugeot Kota Kinabalu.

“Four years ago, when we re-entered the Sabah market, we pledged to achieve a market share of 2 to 3% in Sabah within three years. Now, I am proud to say that we have a 14% market share among European passenger cars here. Peugeot Kota Kinabalu will further strengthen our position here,” said Naza Automotive Group, Naza Corporation Holdings group chief operating officer, Datuk Samson Anand George.

“Peugeot Kota Kinabalu will carry our full range of affordable products ranging from the 208 at only RM88,888, all the way to the 508 GT at RM204,188. This will include recent Malaysian Car of the Year Award winners, the 308 THP and 508 SW,” he added.

With an investment of RM1.5 million, Peugeot Kota Kinabalu measures 5,200 sq ft and features free Wi-Fi and a lounge for its customers.

Owned and operated by Boston Auto, the service centre has 3 bays with the capacity to service up to 12 units of cars per day. All cars will be serviced with genuine Peugeot parts by trained professionals.

The 3S centre will serve the state of Sabah and in particular the markets in Kota Kinabalu, Penampang, Tamparuli and Tuaran.

Peugeot Kota Kinabalu is part of a nationwide expansion exercise by Nasim. It is the fifth new outlet launched by Nasim this year besides the launch of new outlets in Taiping, Petaling Jaya, Klang and Kajang.

These new outlets will contribute to Nasim’s target of selling 4,200 units this year.

Nasim currently has a total of 43 outlets nationwide in operation since embarking on a rapid network expansion four years ago.

All Peugeot models come with five-year warranty with unlimited mileage together with Nasim’s 24-hour Peugeot Assistance service, complimentary access to the Peugeot Lounge at Subang Airport and Peugeot Privilege membership, all to provide the best ownership experience for its customers.


Ride-hailing giant Gojek to shift to electric vehicles by 2030

Operators scanning a Gojek taxi rider's battery barcode to charge it at a charging station in Jakarta.
JAKARTA: Indonesian ride-hailing startup Gojek plans to make every car and motorcycle on its platform an electric vehicle (EV) by 2030 through partnerships with manufacturers and favourable leasing arrangements, says co-chief executive Kevin Aluwi.

Gojek announced the plan today under a zero-emission pledge laid out in its first annual sustainability report, which analysts widely regard as a move aimed at bringing the company closer to a public listing.

However, analysts expect the cost of going electric in Indonesia to be high due to the need for related infrastructure in a country which only has around 100 charging stations.

"Our target is to work with various different players within the industry and government to reduce the cost of EVs to about 30% lower than internal combustion engine vehicles," prioritising Gojek's home market, Aluwi said in an interview ahead of the report's release.

The Jakarta-based firm is in talks to support development of Indonesia's EV industry, including how to build infrastructure such as battery swap and charging stations, he said.

Gojek, which also offers food delivery and payment services, says it has over 2 million drivers across Indonesia, Vietnam, Thailand and Singapore, and is backed by big-name investors including Alphabet Inc's Google and Tencent Holdings Ltd.

Aluwi, who co-founded Gojek in 2011, said the firm has EV pilot programmes in Indonesia with state energy firms Pertamina and Perusahaan Listrik Negara, scooter makers Gesits, Viar, NIU Technologies and Honda Motor Co Ltd, plus automakers Toyota Motor Corp and Mitsubishi Motors Corp.

The main concerns for drivers switching to EVs involved power and infrastructure as well as cost, Aluwi said. To help with financing, Gojek is exploring leasing arrangements, potentially through its financial services arm, he said.

"We do know that the building of this electric vehicle ecosystem from raw materials to battery production to vehicle production is something that many in the government see as a big part of the future in Indonesia," Aluwi said.

The world's fourth-most populous country has grappled with choking air pollution in cities, with traffic-clogged capital Jakarta consistently ranked among the region's most polluted.

Indonesia aims to start processing its rich supplies of nickel laterite ore for use in lithium batteries as part of a long-term goal of becoming a global EV hub.

Gojek's sustainability chief, Tanah Sullivan, said the firm has also launched programmes to reduce single-use plastic in food delivery to help achieve its zero waste and zero emission goals by 2030.

Regional rival Grab pledged in December to have 26,000 EVs in Indonesia by 2025.

"Gojek and Grab's driver base is quite big. This should help to reach economies of scale for electric motorcycle development and sales," said Septian Hario Seto, deputy head of investment and mining coordination at the coordinating ministry of maritime and investment.

The government is helping Gojek in talks with Chinese battery maker Contemporary Amperex Technology Co Ltd (CATL) to supply EV batteries, Septian said.

Reuters reported in April, citing sources, that Gojek and Indonesian e-commerce platform Tokopedia are close to finalising an US$18 billion merger that would see them list both in Jakarta in 2021 and in the United States at a valuation of US$35 billion to US$40 billion.


BHPetrol presents prizes to OrangeMania winners

                PETALING JAYA: BHPetrol recently held a prize giving ceremony for the winners of the BHPetrol & Partners OrangeMania Campaign which took place at the Royale Bintang Hotel, The Curve here.

The lucky winners walked away with an iPhone 6 and an iPad Mini3. And those who attended the event and participated in the on-the-spot quizzes received gifts like BHPetrol vouchers, LINE dolls, and TGV movie cards from senior marketing manager of BHPetrol, Baba Tan.

“We are glad that this promotion has attracted more customers coming to our stations and we hope they will continue to be our fans. We wish to congratulate all the winners who have participated in the contest and also our heartiest thanks to our campaign partners for making it a success” said Tan.

LINE, TGV, Permanis, Nestle and Wrigleys were the partners for this promotion. Customers were required to make a purchase at participating BHPetrol to be eligible to participate in the contest.

Starting from May 1 to June 30, BHPetrol continues with its promotion whereby customers who purchase RM20 petrol at participating BHPetrol are able to enter contest to win Prizes which includes RM5 petrol e-voucher, Wonda coffee, Line stickers, Iphone 6, Ipad Mini3 or LINE Dolls.


BMW S 1000 RR World Superbike components 3D printed right at the circuit

                MUNICH: The BMW Group already applies 3D printing to production procedures in many areas – and BMW Motorrad Motorsport is also relying on this innovative technology with the BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team.

It enables fast and efficient production of new prototype components right at the circuit. These can then be tested on the BMW S 1000 RR before they go into final production in Munich or at supplier locations. It also means that smaller parts that are often not subject to intense stresses can be made on-site and then used in races.

BMW Motorrad Motorsport brings along a portable 3D printer that travels to each circuit and is then assembled in the BMW Motorrad WorldSBK Team pit area on race weekends.

“This technology allows us to make improvements to the RR quickly and efficiently. The development of a WorldSBK bike is an ongoing process and it is often the minor details that make a motorbike better,” said BMW Motorrad Motorsport director Marc Bongers.

The on-site printer is backed up by the BMW Group’s in-house Additive Manufacturing Campus if more resources are required.

This channel provides the team with unique access to not only the advisory 3D printing experts, but also to a full range of printing methods and various materials for different applications. Manufacturing of the components can be triggered directly from the track, via BMW’s own systems.

Examples of parts that are printed in plastics or metals directly for use on the World Superbike include brake ventilation in plastics reinforced with carbon fibre, complex moulded parts, titanium crash pads, aluminium distributor boxes and aerodynamic trim parts.


Asia Pacific premiere of Lamborghini Revuelto at Auto Shanghai 2023

                SHANGHAI: The Revuelto, Lamborghini's first V12 high performance electrified vehicle (HPEV) hybrid super sports car, debuts in the Asia Pacific region at Auto Shanghai 2023.

Sitting in the heart is a new naturally-aspirated V12 engine, supplemented by three electric motors to produce a combined 1015 CV total, alongside a double-clutch gearbox that makes its debut on a 12-cylinder Lamborghini for the first time.

The Revuelto has a fully carbon-fiber front structure. An electric mode for this plug-in hybrid is available, one of the thirteen different driving modes.

The Revuelto features a recurring Y-theme in its headlights and taillights, its large side air intakes as well as the center of the dashboard.

The iconic V12 is celebrated by being on full display in the rear.

The Revuelto also has a carbon fiber monocoque, extended all the way to the front end, creating a monofuselage that draws inspiration from aeronautics.

This structure application has a central monocoque in forged composites, billed as a far more sustainable technology than traditional manufacturing processes.

The brand also showcased the rear-wheel drive V10 Huracán Tecnica, the super SUV Urus Performante, as well as the Urus S at the motor show.

Commenting on the significance of the Chinese market as the second largest single market globally for the brand, Stephan Winkelmann, Chairman and CEO of Automobili Lamborghini, added: “The Chinese market has registered strong growth in the years and will keep playing a strategic role in our future development. Our dedication here is unwavering, and we will continue to expand our presence with the extended dealer network and diversified exclusive experiences."


China agrees to delay electric car quota by a year, says source

                BERLIN/RASTATT: China agreed to delay an 8 percent quota for electric and hybrid vehicles by a year until 2019, an auto industry source said, in a major concession for German carmakers seeking to expand in the world's largest auto market.

In a draft in September, Chinese policymakers proposed that 8 percent of automakers' sales be battery-electric or plug-in hybrid vehicles by 2018, sparking protests from domestic and international carmakers.

After a meeting with German chancellor Angela Merkel in Berlin on Thursday, Chinese Premier Li Keqiang said a "solution" for implementing the quotas had been found, though he gave no details.

As part of a compromise deal, German carmakers who fail to fulfil the quota in the near term will be able to offset penalties by ramping up electric vehicle deliveries at a later date, the industry source said.

Daimler chief executive Dieter Zetsche said earlier on Friday that China had agreed to adjust the pace of introducing stringent domestic quotas for electric car sales.

The concession followed an auto industry lobbying effort before this week's Germany-China summit.

Asked what had been agreed between Germany and China, Zetsche told Reuters: "What we talked about was the timeline, the pace of this transition. I think we reached a result which is satisfactory for everybody." Zetsche said that he could not give further details given that the Chinese and German participants in the negotiation had also not divulged details of the compromise.

Maintaining and extending its current strong position in China is crucial for Germany's auto industry, led by Volkswagen , Daimler and BMW, and its broader economy.

Handelsblatt, citing industry sources, said China had agreed to delay the introduction of the rule by a year and allow firms to make up for inadequate electric sales volumes later. Measures were also being investigated to allow German firms to limit their transfer of technology to China, Handelsblatt said.


German automakers fight to defend their turf from Chinese rivals

                SHANGHAI/BERLIN: German automakers have turned up in full force at Shanghai's auto show as they fight to stay on top of consumer trends in the country that will define whether they maintain their market dominance in the electric age both at home and abroad.

Their heavy presence - with the entire board of Volkswagen AG and more than 100 VW employees attending, in contrast to Japanese or French automakers - shows they are taking the challenge seriously, said Yale Zhang of Shanghai-based consultancy Automotive Foresight.

But with German companies relying on China for a third of their passenger vehicle sales, they also have the most to lose.

"A lot of features in our cars are inspired by China," Oliver Zipse, CEO of BMW, accompanied by his sales and technology chiefs, told a news conference, adding that the Chinese market was ahead of the global curve.

His comments mark the power shift from the combustion-engine age when German cars were seen in China as the pinnacle of global engineering, to the electric age when German automakers are learning from their Chinese counterparts who have moved faster on developing technology for electric vehicles (EVs) that sets them apart.

Volkswagen executives have said the company's unrivalled global scale will help it win the race for affordable EVs - but that capacity could turn from a blessing to a curse if sales dip, with the market share of China's BYD Co Ltd surpassing that of the Volkswagen brand's this year so far.

While the battery-electric vehicle market share of German automakers in China is rising, it is still miniscule.

The combined market share of the battery-electric vehicle market in China held by Audi, BMW, Volkswagen and Mercedes-Benz rose to 4.8% in 2022 from 2.2% in 2020, according to a Reuters analysis of sales data from the Chinese Association of Automobile Manufacturers.

The EV sales of all four German brands added up to only a quarter of BYD's in 2022.

German carmakers' total market share in the country rose from 19.9% in 2015 to 24.6% in 2019, but has fallen back down to 19.1%, according to data provided to Reuters by Germany's autos association VDA.

"The Chinese market is no longer as stable for German carmakers as it was," Thomas Luk, partner at management consultancy Kearney, said on the sidelines of the Shanghai show.

"Becoming faster won't be enough to keep up ... their business culture must change," he said.

 BYD Seagull is sending shockwaves through the global industry.Shift in thinking

Analysts in Shanghai pointed to the tendency of German carmakers to market their new EVs as an electric version of their combustion-engine predecessors as a sign that the companies had not yet made the mental shift towards putting electrification first.

"It is important to see EVs as a new generation of products, rather than an extension of combustion-engine cars," Zhang said. "Hopefully the Shanghai show can shake that misconception."

"If foreign brands are stubborn with their thinking, they will be phased out," Feng Xinya, president of Chinese state-owned manufacturer GAC Group, said.

Chinese brands have also adopted new sales strategies to make inroads in Europe, which analysts said European legacy brands must learn from to keep up in the digital age.

Brands like Nio and Lynk & Co, owned by Geely and Volvo Cars, have set up community spaces, cafes and bars, which Nio has said translates into sales via peer-to-peer recommendations.

Many are also adopting direct sales, an approach German automakers like BMW and Mercedes-Benz have also said in recent months they are moving towards.

"One of the key objectives of this strategy is to control the customer experience fully," McKinsey wrote in a December report.

Still, sources said Chinese brands were focusing first on dominating their domestic market before taking a more aggressive strategy in Europe, where Asian battery makers have already laid solid ground.

Chinese EV brands were for now setting prices higher to avoid upsetting European policymakers concerned that they will flood the market even though they are able to offer far lower prices, said a source who asked not to be named.

BYD this week unveiled the Seagull, an electric vehicle with a range of over 300km whose price starts at just US$11,000 (around RM50,000) - cheaper than many entry-level combustion-engine models in Europe. The company is planning to bring the Seal and Dolphin models to Europe later this year.

"The Chinese are more careful in Europe," Luk said.

In China, though, the battle is fierce.

“I used to be careful with using the word 'doomed,'" Zhang of Automotive Insight said.

"But I am quite sure now, at least in China, foreign brands' days are numbered."


Audi USA pairs up with Amazon Music

                WASHINGTON, D.C.: Audi announced this week a partnership with Amazon Music, allowing Audi owners in the United States to access the streaming service through the car's MMI connect app in the MMI system.

Owners of 2017 or 2018 models of the A3, A4, A4 allroad, Q7, R8, TT and 2018 models of the Q5 and A5 can listen to millions of songs available through Amazon Music right from the road, from streaming services Amazon Music Unlimited and Prime Music.

When connected via the Audi MMI connect app, drivers can use the MMI interface to make song selections, scroll through the playlists and stations, browse new releases and charts and search the music library to explore new artists, genres and styles.

Audi customers who are also Amazon Prime members can now stream more than two million songs available from Prime Music, as well as over one thousand playlists and stations. Additionally, Amazon Music Unlimited subscribers can access the on-demand, full catalogue streaming service, including tens of millions of songs and thousands of playlists and stations through the Audi MMI connect app.

Customers who have bought or stored music from Amazon Music are also able to stream their library while driving (no membership or subscription required).

In addition to music streaming, with an active Audi Connect PRIME subscription, the Audi connect mobile application also supports remote vehicle services including Curfew, Speed, and Valet Alerts, remote lock and unlock capability and online car finder.


You are looking at the Nissan X-Trail Aero Edition

                KUALA LUMPUR: The X-Trail is not getting the Nismo treatment this time. Instead, Nissan is turning to Tomei Motor Co for some cosmetic upgrades.

Two versions of the X-Trail Aero Edition are offered. The 2.0L 2WD Aero Edition is priced at RM141,428,96 while the 2.5L 4WD Aero Edition is going for RM163,616.06. Both comes with seven years, unlimited mileage warranty. The accessories are factory fitted and are backed by a three-year or 100,000km warranty, whichever comes first.

It includes a front aero bumper, side under spoilers and rear aero bumper. The package also includes gloss black 5-spoke, 17-inch alloy wheels and brown Nappa leather seats.

According to Nissan distributor Edaran Tan Chong Motor, Tomei is a Japanese motorsports outfit.

Edaran Tan Chong Motor marketing and product planning director Tan Keng Meng said the X-Trail Aero Edition would appeal to those seeking a more premium Japanese SUV.

In conjunction with Tan Chong's 60th anniversary, Edaran Tan Chong Motor is offering attractive deals on the X-Trail Aero Edition with options thrown in that would mean savings of up to RM6,000. Alternatively, there are Raya rebates of RM4,500 with a RM1 promotion for an 8-inch multimedia navigator.

The distributor said the Tomei upgrade is also available to existing X-Trail owners.

Call 03-4047 8786 or email tomei@tanchonggroup.com for more information.


Your teen's brain behind the wheel explained

                CHICAGO: Adolescent brains negotiate risk differently than those of adults and a new study exposes what modulates their risk tolerance as they drive.

Working with 14-year-old participants who were accompanied by their mothers, the research team tracked blood flow in their brains as they completed a simulated driving task.

In one experiment, teens drove alone and in the other, their mothers were watching, according to the study.

When driving alone, teens find risky decisions rewarding, the research revealed, but a mother's presence can nullify that thrill, potentially leading to wiser decisions.

Upon running a yellow light, blood flow increased to the reward centre of the brain, called the ventral stratum, when the teen drove alone.

This part of the brain has been demonstrated in prior studies to be more sensitive to rewards during adolescence than any other part of life.

"The prevailing view is that this peak in reward sensitivity in adolescence underlies, in part, adolescent risk-taking," says lead author Eva Telzer.

Yet with Mom watching, this effect was minimal, according to the study, and teens used the brakes considerably more upon approaching yellow lights.

"The teens go from about 55 percent risky choices to about 45 percent when their mom is watching," says Telzer. "That's a big effect."

In the presence of their mothers, the teens' prefrontal cortex activated when they hit the brakes, yet this did not happen when they hit the brakes while driving alone, say the researchers.

This part of the brain is associated with cognitive control, and it's important in the art of regulating behavior, says Telzer, who says the two mechanisms of nullifying the risk reward factor and activating the prefrontal cortex have implications for road safety.

"A parent's presence is actually changing the way the adolescent is reasoning and thinking about risk -- and this increases their safe behavior," she says.

The study was published in the journal Social Cognitive and Affective Neuroscience.


Nissan turns Rogue into a winter Warrior

MONTREAL: When Nissan adapted the Rogue for winter driving, it probably did it tongue-in-cheek as the video below showed.

It announced last week a surprise debut at the 2016 Montreal International Auto Show - a crossover demonstrating no fear for the harshest winter conditions and a new icon for Nissan's winter-ready crossover family – a Rogue equipped with a full snow track system.

Named the "Rogue Warrior," Nissan's number one-selling product in Canada has been transformed into an extreme prototype, which sits on heavy-duty snow tracks measuring 30"/76 cm in height, 48"/122 cm in length and the individual track width is 15"/38 cm.

The Rogue Warrior was modified entirely by Quebec-based Motorsports in Action (MIA), using the Dominator track system from American Track Truck. Besides the tracks, adjustments to suspension, and application of custom snow guards and minor body tunings to make room for the tracks, the Rogue remains stock. The production Rogue's advanced Xtronic® transmission remains untouched, as does the AWD drivetrain.

Rogue Warrior has the ability to perform in a variety of environments, but is specifically designed to handle snowy conditions. It is capable of driving up to 100kph, scaling a 45 degree grade in groomed snow, and has a ground clearance of 23"/58 cm.

Nissan said the Xtronic transmission was suited to the snow track system. A wider gear ratio range allows for stronger acceleration from a standing start and the D-Step shifting logic allows rapid shifts at high throttle openings.

The Rogue remains the best-selling vehicle in the Nissan line-up with annual sales of 35,841 units, up 24.3 per cent over 2014. Completely redesigned for model year 2014, the Rogue was one of the top 10 most sold vehicles in Canada in June, July, August and December.

"In the automotive industry, it's the norm to develop a prototype and show it to the world through photos or a static auto show display, but with the Rogue Warrior – we had to do something more," says Steve Rhind, director of marketing at Nissan Canada.

"When the all-wheel drive system on the Rogue and Nissan's advanced Xtronic transmission are matched with snow tracks, it results in something spectacular – a Rogue capable of overcoming severe, off-road winter conditions. This video shows an entertaining side of our brand's persona, and does justice to the extreme capabilities of the Rogue Warrior - an idea developed and executed entirely in Canada."


Giant UK electric-car charging station also will supply the grid

                LONDON: An electric-vehicle charging station that can juice hundreds of cars a day and set up with two batteries that can send power to the UK grid is opening in Oxford.

The project, known as the Energy Superhub Oxford, will include 42 rapid chargers at the Redbridge Park and Ride. Britain will need to rapidly scale up charging infrastructure and battery storage to achieve its goals for cutting carbon emissions.

The £41 million facility was developed by Pivot Power, a division of Electricite de France SA, with the Oxford City Council.

The system includes 12 Tesla Superchargers, a 2-megawatt vanadium flow battery from Invinity Energy Systems Plc and a 50-megawatt lithium-ion battery from Wartsila Oyj. It’s the largest pairing of those two battery technologies and could serve as an example for building storage capacity to help reach climate goals.

“We really need to accelerate this whole plan,” said Matt Allen, chief executive officer of Pivot Power. “Our superhub model will be a key part of that acceleration.”

Electric vehicles made up 14% of UK car registrations in the first five months of the year, nearly double the percentage from a year earlier, according to industry data.

Some of the chargers will be able to add 483km of range to an electric car in 20 minutes, potentially providing extra juice for hundreds of cars a day.

The charging station plugs directly into the grid via a 6.4km underground cable. There’s enough capacity to add more chargers in the future, potentially to electrify Oxford’s buses.

One key barrier to large-scale electric vehicle charging is having the access to power. Local distribution networks are carefully balanced and can’t always accommodate a huge source of unpredictable demand like an EV charging facility.

The Oxford charging station will connect directly into National Grid’s larger network that stretches across the country.

Batteries can help boost the amount of power coming from renewables by recharging when solar and wind are plentiful and then discharging when there’s high demand.


June 24 - July 6: Fuel prices unchanged

                KUALA LUMPUR: The retail prices of RON97 and RON95 petrol will be maintained at RM4.84 per litre and RM2.05 per litre for the week from June 24 to July 6.

The Finance Ministry said, in a statement today that the price of diesel would also remain at RM2.15 per litre, even though the market price for RON95 and diesel had risen beyond the current ceiling price.

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


Mercedes and AMG prep series of special editions

                STUTTGART: In celebrating Mercedes-AMG's 50th anniversary this year, the tuning-arm of Mercedes-Benz is expanding a few model ranges with a special lineup of Edition 50 cars - all kitted up of course, and heading for the Geneva International Motor Show.

The list of cars to receive the Edition 50 badges (and their respective list of additional equipments) are the new AMG GT C Roadster, C 63 Cabriolet and C 63 S Cabriolet Ocean Blue Edition, C 43 4MATIC Coupé and Cabriolet Night Edition.

Starting with the AMG GT C Roadster with a 557hp 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 engine, that's being limited to just 500 examples worldwide, it gets two special paint finishes in designo graphite grey magno or designo cashmere white magno.

There will be black chrome accents on the side-skirt trim, front splitter, Panamericana grille's air intakes, fins on the side air outlets in the front wings, rear diffuser and exhaust tailpipes, while the cross-spoke AMG forged wheels will match the accents in terms of finish.

Inside, the theme will be black and silver, which means it will use STYLE Exclusive nappa leather trim in silver pearl/black with grey diamond-patterned contrasting topstitching.

The black AMG Performance steering wheel will be in DINAMICA microfibre with grey contrasting topstitching, 12 o'clock mark in silver pearl, "Edition 50" lettering and a note on the limitation.

Other added features such as the AMG Interior Night package includes steering wheel spokes, shift paddles and door sill panels in black, before finishing with silver seat belts, black chrome trim and the head restraints of the AMG Performance seats embossed with the words "GT Edition 50".

While utilising the same engine and displacement as the GT C Roadster, only playing to a different tune, the Ocean Blue Edition for the C 63 Cabriolet with 476hp and C 63 S Cabriolet with 510hp will be limited to 150 units.

Both cars will come in a new exclusive deep ocean blue colour for the soft-top roof and will be splashed onto the trim strips on the front and rear apron, surrounds on the hub caps, top stitching in the crystal grey interior and the IWC-designed analogue clock.

There will be two colour options of designo cashmere white magno and designo selenite grey magno for choice and will cover the A-Wing front apron, exterior mirror housings, side sill panels and the spoiler lip.

The AMG forged wheels in a cross-spoke design - 19-inch (front) and 20-inch (rear), will be painted in titanium grey.

Inside, it uses a light crystal grey theme with nappa leather and diamond quilting with deep ocean blue contrasting topstitching that's combined with matt silver glass fibre trim (high-gloss carbon fibre as a no-cost option) with the Edition badge in the centre console.

The flat-bottom black-rimmed steering wheel, also wrapped in nappa leather and accompanied by silver-coloured buttons, will be borrowed from the S 63 4MATIC Cabriolet.

As standard the seats will be fitted with the AIRSCARF neck-level heating and climatised seats with AMG badges in the backrests of the front seats and the embossed AMG emblems in the front head restraints.

The 367hp C 43 4MATIC Coupé / Cabriolet Night Edition with its 3.0-litre twin-turbo V6, will receive black accents on the diamond radiator grille, front splitter, rear apron and side skirts, boot lip and the tailpipe trim elements on the exhaust system.

Its 19-inch multi-spoke light-alloy wheels will come in a matt black finish and will feature high-sheen rims for contrast.

Lastly, the rim of the nappa leather/DINAMICA microfibre performance steering wheel with a flattened bottom will also be in black.

“2016 was the most successful year so far in our company history. We shall be using this momentum to fill even more customers with enthusiasm for Mercedes-AMG in our anniversary year, 2017," said Mercedes-AMG CEO Tobias Moers.

To top it all off, Mercedes-Benz will launch its own special editions towards the later part of this year and early part of 2018, such as the SLC300 RedArt Edition, AMG SLC43 Performance Studio RedArt package and the SL designo Edition for the SL450 and SL550.

The compact SLC300 will be in Selenite Grey Metallic paint with Gloss Red accents on the front spoiler, intake arches, rear diffuser and side fins.

The 18-inch twin 5-spoke wheels are finished in highly polished silver that partially obscure the cross-drilled disc brakes and red brake calipers with "Mercedes- Benz" lettering for the front set.

The interior gets exclusive RedArt stylized leather with nappa leather upholstery, contrasted by Silver Pearl nappa leather inserts with red contrasting topstitching and the RedArt Edition logo embroidered on the head rest.

Elements in carbon-fiber-look leather will be on the sport steering wheel, headrest and DYNAMIC SELECT selector lever.

The AMG-ed version - the SLC43 Performance Studio RedArt, will be coated in Selenite Grey Magno instead with red trim elements on the front spoiler, intake arches, rear diffuser and side fins as it rolls on 18-inch AMG 10-spoke light-alloy wheels finished in high-gloss black with red rim flanges and accompanied by red "AMG" brake calipers.

The seats will be retained from the SLC300 RedArt Edition and will come with heating as well as AIRSCARF neck-level heating for both driver and front passenger during top-down driving.

There will also be carbon-fiber leather that embossed within the multi-function sports steering wheel, headrest and DYNAMIC SELECT selector lever.

As for the SL450 and SL550, both roadsters can be had in the SL designo Edition which applies Brilliant Blue Metallic or Cardinal Red Metallic paint and accented by chrome flics in the front bumper for the exterior.

It will then be finished with a set of 19-inch (front) and 20-inch (rear) AMG 10-spoke forged wheels, while having the "designo Edition" logo placed laterally between the chrome accents on the fenders.

The seats and door centre panel will be in Porcelain / Black nappa leather, while the roof liner will be in Porcelain DINAMICA and the seat belts in white that will match the ambient lighting.

There will also be a 3-spoke two-tone multifunction sports steering wheel in Black / Porcelain nappa leather with the DYNAMIC SELECT selector lever in Porcelain leather while Porcelain Piano Lacquer accents the interior to round everything off.

All these cars will be joined by a new E-Class Cabriolet, which will be shown for the first time at the Geneva show.