New Isuzu trucks for TNB

                PETALING JAYA: Isuzu Malaysia recently delivered a new batch of 12 units of its Isuzu light duty trucks to Tenaga Nasional Berhad (TNB) during a handover ceremony held in Pekan, Pahang.

This handover marks the latest phase of the RM31mil deal, whereby 200 units were initially procured, with remaining units expected to be supplied to TNB by end 2017.

The 2-year fleet deal consist of the Isuzu ELF NPR 6-Wheeler Crew Cab, which have been customised to suit the national electric provider’s key task of serving the nation promptly and efficiently.

 Anas (left) and Kenji at the handover ceremony in Pekan, Pahang.

Operating under TNB Distribution, the Isuzu light duty trucks will undertake its role as part of the field and rural support services. In addition, these trucks - that offer notably wider cabin space and better engine performance, will be supplied to TNB Distribution centres throughout the nation.

During the ceremony, the CEO of Isuzu Malaysia, Kenji Matsuoka, took the opportunity to express his utmost gratitude to TNB for the trust and recognition shown towards Isuzu Malaysia, in tasking the light duty trucks to support the nation’s electrical needs.

He added that aside from the enduring and robust qualities that the trucks had to offer, Isuzu Malaysia will always be prepared to serve TNB with proper support and services.

The 12 new units the Isuzu ELF NPR 6-wheeler Crew Cab were then officially presented to Tenaga Nasional Berhad’s General Manager of Fleet Management Department Mohammad Anas Ibrahim.

Aside from replacing TNB’s aging fleet of support trucks, the light duty trucks are set to ensure time-efficient customer service, while maintaining fuel efficiency and reliability to keep TNB’s support operations running effortlessly.

Also present were Othman Alias (President) and Noh Jaafar (Vice President) of Kesatuan Percantuman Pekerja-Pekerja TNB, to mark the distribution of the vehicles to TNB distribution centres nationwide.


Caltex kicks off RON97 promo

                PETALING JAYA: Chevron Malaysia Limited , which carries the retail brand Caltex has announced its RON97 promotion at all Caltex Stations nationwide.

The promotion is for a six-week period and aims to reward customers nationwide – more than 190 lucky customers will stand a chance to walk home with a share of over RM110,000 worth of prizes.

Two grand prize winners will be drawn weekly, each walking away with RM5,000 in cash while 30 winners will walk away weekly with StarCash worth RM300.

For JourneyTM Card and BCard winners, each will be rewarded with an additional 10,000 BPoints when they transact using their BCARD.

“The RON97 promotion serves as an opportunity for our customers to save on fuel expenses and for us to also reward our loyal and new customers who use our premium fuel,” said Chevron Malaysia’s country chairman Shahid Ahmed.

Chevron Malaysia said Caltex with Techron offer five benefits. It is specially-formulated to keep an engine clean and removes dirty deposits from vital engine parts to help the vehicle perform at its best.

In addition to the RON97 promotion, Caltex is also offering its Caltex Premium 97 customers with a RM10 discount on Techron Concentrate Plus when they pump a minimum of RM50 worth of RON97 in a single receipt.

Chevron Malaysia said Techron Concentrate Plus is designed to help restore the engine and can help remove harmful deposits from fuel injectors, intake valves and combustion chambers.

To participate, buy a minimum of RM50 worth of Caltex Premium 97 at any Caltex stations nationwide to stand a chance to win weekly cash and prizes.

The RON97 promotion kicked off on Aug 16 and will take place over a period of six weeks before ending on Sept 30.

The Caltex promotion came on the heels of recent major developments in the retail fuel sector. BHPetrol started the ball rolling with the sale of Euro5 diesel in Johor Baru last year, which then expanded to the Klang Valley earlier this month. Petronas took the cue and followed up by announcing the sale of Euro4M petrol across most of its stations across the country.

BHPetrol is expected to start selling Euro4M petrol from Sept 1.


McLaren 675LT teased ahead of Geneva

                LONDON: McLaren has provided a snippet of what is to come at the Geneva Motor Show this March with a new more powerful 675LT to join its stablemates.

While the company hasn’t revealed its official performance figures, they have revealed that there will be an increase in the engine’s output by 25PS to settle at 675PS (666bhp).

The additional 25PS has been squeezed out of its 3.8L twinturbo V8, which allows the new McLaren to obtain the 675 designation while the LT nomenclature harks back to the company’s legendary ‘Longtail’ name that was given to the McLaren F1 GTR Longtail.

The 675LT will focus on performance-optimised aerodynamics with more downforce, driver engagement, power and less weight.

The iconic Longtail name made its debut during the 1997 season of sportscar racing and it was then that the distinctive stretched silhouette of the McLaren F1 GTR became popularly known.

The nickname stuck, and the model went on to become one of motorsport’s most successful GT cars.

McLaren says that deliveries of the McLaren 675LT (only in coupe form) are to begin later this year with its official figures released sometime before its official debut at the Genevea Motor Show.


The Bentley Flying Spur V8 takes off

                CREWE: The Bentley Flying Spur is now available with Bentley’s renowned and highly successful V8 powertrain, as an alternative to the iconic W12.

Research from the last ten years shows a significant shift in the usage of the Flying Spur from chauffeur-driven owners to customers driving themselves with passengers accompanying them.

Global research (including two customer clinics in America and China) also demonstrated that over 40% of customers travel with rear seat passengers at least once a week.

This data has been used to develop the latest iteration of the new four door grand tourer, focusing on the driver experience whilst retaining a cabin space that combines exquisite luxury with integrated latest-generation technology.

The Flying Spur V8 offers a more driver-centric experience via increased agility and a more characterful engine note, whilst benefiting from increased range between fuel stops and a reduction in CO2 emissions.

At the heart of the vehicle is Bentley’s 4.0-litre, twin turbocharged V8 engine, that produces a peak power of 550PS and uses twin-scroll turbos to reach its maximum torque of 770Nm at just under 2000rpm.

To maximise fuel economy, the V8 can shut down four of its eight cylinders under light-load conditions, when torque demand is below 235Nm and engine speed is below 3000rpm.

The change is imperceptible to the occupants – with deactivation times of around 20 milliseconds (a tenth of the time it takes to blink).

The Flying Spur V8 is 100kg lighter than the W12 version, making the vehicle feel more agile and responsive with a distinctive personality of its own.

The new model includes the latest powertrain and chassis advancements; Adaptive Air Suspension, Torque Vectoring by Brake, Drive Dynamics Control, and Electric Steering, all of which are standard features.

Furthermore, customers can add Bentley’s pioneering 48V electric active anti-roll technology (Bentley Dynamic Ride), and Electronic All-Wheel Steering for even greater agility.

The new Flying Spur, available in both four-seat or five-seat configurations, incorporates a class-leading portfolio of intelligent and intuitive equipment and technology tailored to the driver and passengers.

The industry-first Bentley Rotating Display is also available on the new Flying Spur V8, including Apple CarPlay, photorealistic landscapes through satellite maps and advance warning of changing road or traffic conditions via the local hazard information service.

Member of the Board for Engineering, Dr. Matthias Rabe, comments:

“Based on our research, customer feedback and trends of customer usage, the new Flying Spur V8 has been engineered to deliver driver-focused ability, whilst offering passengers the refinement, comfort and technology expected from a grand limousine.

“The Flying Spur range is purposeful yet elegant. It has classic Bentley design, best-in-class execution, authentic materials and attention to detail. The new Flying Spur V8 also includes the latest driver assistance and infotainment systems for enhanced safety, security and relaxation on every journey."


VW weighs expansion for Chinese budget-car brand Jetta

                FRANKFURT: Volkswagen AG is exploring options to expand its new Chinese entry-level brand Jetta, including potentially taking it beyond the world’s largest auto market.

Eight months after its introduction, Jetta has claimed about 1% of the Chinese market as younger, price-sensitive customers buy cars to avoid public transport following the coronavirus outbreak, Harald Mueller, the brand’s president, told reporters this week.

“The successful start has of course also sparked interest from other markets in the Volkswagen world,” Mueller said.

VW struggled for years to develop no-frills cars for emerging markets because high technology costs made it difficult to roll out price-competitive vehicles in the budget segment.

The company eventually opted for a two-pronged approach: it tapped the cachet of its Jetta sedan - popular in Europe and the US for decades - to establish an affordable marque for its largest market China, while sister brand Skoda focused on India.

China’s entry-level segment is largely dominated by domestic manufacturers from Great Wall Motor Co. to Geely Automobile Holdings Ltd. as well as other Asian brands.

It accounts for about 30% of the country’s total market, and about 80% of those buying an entry-level vehicle are buying their first car, according to VW.

Jetta’s current lineup comprises two sport utility vehicles and one sedan, built at VW’s joint venture with FAW Car Co. Ltd. in Chengdu. Volkswagen, the world’s largest automaker, has a total market share of about 20% in China.


What you need to know about film tinting

                PETALING JAYA: Have you ever driven or been in a car without any auto film? Then you’d probably be all too familiar with how uncomfortable it is and just how easy it is for sun damage to occur especially if you’re in for a long drive.

Besides causing a sweaty and uncomfortable drive, the sun also emits ultraviolet and infrared rays that can damage our skin and eyes as well.

While cars do protect us from the general elements, we are still exposed to the invisible dangers of the sunlight during our commute. This is where the role of auto film comes in, not just for the privacy of your vehicle, but to also offer you protection from the harmful rays.

With a wide range of auto films in the market that come with various prices and standards, how does one go about in selecting the “right” auto film?

To begin, we must first understand:

1. What is Visible Light Transmission (VLT) and Sun Protection Factor (SPF)?
Visible light transmission levels are normally represented in percentage which is equivalent to the percentage of visible light that enters the vehicle window. In other words, 30% VLT filters out 70% of visible light and only allows 30% of VLT to enter.

The lower the percentage, the darker the window film. On the other hand, SPF is the measurement on how long the sunscreen will protect your skin from ultraviolet B (UVB) rays. UVB rays tend to damage the epidermis which is the skin’s outer layer. These are the 3 most common SPF levels seen on sun blocks:

> SPF 15 blocks 93% of UVB rays> SPF 30 blocks 97% of UVB rays> SPF 50 block 98% of UVB rays

To simplify it further, SPF 30 means the sunscreen will provide 30 times more protection than having no sunscreen.

2. Low-Grade vs Quality film
Have you ever seen colour change, bubbles, warping or peeling on a car tint? It is often caused by low-grade tinting, which are more prone to the risk factors listed above.

Additionally, the price could be a fraction of the more notable brands, but it may not protect you and your car interior from the harmful UV rays or even the heat. It is merely just for aesthetics. Low-grade films are available  at almost any car accessory shops, but it often lacks quality, lifespan, protection and security.

The normal cost for a quality tint will range from RM700 to RM5,000 for an established auto film brand.

3. Basic protection features
As mentioned above, exposing your skin to the sun can lead to skin problems and in worst case scenarios, skin cancer. To prevent that, it is crucial to carefully select a film that provides the protection you need. A basic quality tint will have UV protection and heat rejection features at the very least. Most standard auto films block out 99% of UV rays.

4. Choose a trustworthy brand
Companies can make claims about their products but how do you know which are accurate? This is where research would prove to be extremely useful. Look-up for the product’s specification sheets online to back up their data or seek brands that have third-party accreditation.

Brands like 3M auto films are recommended by the US skin cancer foundation, as they provide a total sun protection factor (SPF) of more than 1000 — 30 times higher than a top-grade sunscreen. The film’s high SPF level provides protection from the dangers of the sun’s UV rays, which includes sunburn, premature aging and skin cancer.

By rejecting the radiation of UV light, auto films also help to protect the interior decoration of your vehicle from discolouring and cracking.

5. Keep cool and reduce fuel consumption
It is important to note that auto films alone are unable to entirely block out heat from the interior of a vehicle and this is because other parts of the vehicle also absorb heat.

However, with the help of good quality auto film, a significant amount of heat can be blocked out depending on the Total Solar Energy Rejected (TSER). TSER is a term you will often see on the brochures of auto films. It is equivalent to the heat rejected by the film. The higher the number, the more heat is rejected which in turn will cool down your car at a faster rate.

As a result, it reduces the need to blast your air conditioning and may subsequently reduce fuel consumption for  some cars.

6. Security and safety
Besides protecting the occupants of a vehicle from harmful UV rays, auto films can also prevent your windows from shattering into tiny pieces during an impact. Security films can hold broken glass pieces together and keep it from flying airborne which may cause collateral damage when an accident or robbery happens.

In Malaysia, where smash- and-grab cases are rampant, security films prove to be helpful as it makes it more difficult and time-consuming for the crime to take place. Note that security films are not designed to be impenetrable in case rescue operations need to take place.

7. Ask about warranty
Besides looking at the specifications an auto film provides you, you should also check if they provide a warranty for it. Most quality products come with a warranty from the manufacturer which is fulfilled by authorized dealers. In cases where the film has a defect or starts peeling within the warranty period, you should be able to make a claim.

This is also why it is important to only purchase auto films from legitimate authorized dealers. A tip is to visit the brand’s website to check for the list of authorized dealers nearby your area. This is to ensure that you are still covered by the existing warranty even if that outlet is no longer in business.

You should also compare the length and coverage of the warranty as some brands provide a longer period to offer long term value. This is why it is recommended to go for a trusted brand that has a good history of performance quality and after sales service.

READ MORE: Fully darkened rear windows and windshield allowed8. Should I install metallised films?
Metallised films are a popular type of auto film in the market due to its fairly affordable price and proven quality. It might sound like the ideal choice, but metallised films come with some issues. Because of the metallic compounds in the film, metallised films might interfere with GPS signals, mobile phone signals, RFID Tag, and even your auto gate signal.

Another problem with metallised films is corrosion. Corrosion happens when metal is exposed to water and air, causing a chemical reaction. It affects the appearance of the film and even the heat rejection performance.

Over time, the colour of the tint will change to purple or brown which eventually affects visibility. These are some things to consider if you are recommended a metallised film.

9. Darker film doesn’t mean better heat rejection

Firstly, check the current tint regulations before applying, to prevent trouble with local authorities. The current regulations for tinting in Malaysia are — 70% VLT for the windscreen, 50% VLT for the front side windows and any percentage for the rear windows.

A darker film does not necessarily reflect heat better than a clear film. Heat rejection is calculated based TSER.

So, when choosing a film to cool your car, keep in mind that darker tint doesn’t mean better heat rejection.

We hope these tips narrow down your choices and help you find an auto film that best suits your needs.


McLaren 720S racers offered Track Pack specification

                LONDON: A new Track Pack specification for the McLaren 720S is now available, taking the British supercar to the next level for owners who want to exploit its formidable dynamic abilities on a circuit.

With the wide breadth of 720S capability extended even further, the McLaren 720S Track Pack establishes a new pinnacle of track focus within McLaren’s core Super Series line-up. The introduction follows the availability of a Track Pack for McLaren’s Sports Series, which one in 10 570S buyers specify.

The introduction of the Track Pack for 720S comes as McLaren’s new 720S GT3 race car moves into the next stage of its development programme.

 Mclaren 720s GT3 testing in Brno.

Further testing has been taking place throughout Europe, including at the Brno circuit in the Czech Republic recently where the two cars came together to share track time.

To date, the McLaren Automotive Customer Racing division has tested extensively at six European circuits, with 10 drivers experiencing the car.

The majority of track mileage has been covered by McLaren Automotive factory drivers, but the programme has also seen a number of amateur racers providing further feedback during the development process. A combination of multiple rig tests and track time has allowed completion of engine performance evaluation for the GT3 car.

Available now for the road-legal 720S, the Track Pack’s individual features comprise functional and visual upgrades and deliver a weight-saving of 24kg.

Based on 720S Performance specification – which, with hood air intakes, rear fender air intakes and door mirror casings in carbon fibre and engine bay ambient lighting, turns heads in any pit lane or paddock – the Track Pack exterior features are Super-Lightweight 10-Spoke Forged Alloy Wheels, an MSO Defined Gloss Finish Visual Carbon Fibre Active Rear Spoiler and a Sports Exhaust.

Inside the expansive teardrop cabin, body-hugging Lightweight Carbon Fibre Racing Seats in either regular or touring size are complemented by MSO Defined Satin Visual Carbon Fibre Extended Gearshift Paddles and a steering wheel trimmed in black Alcantara.

A titanium bar mounted behind the seats supports 6-point harnesses for both driver and passenger.

The Track Pack adds even more motorsport intent to a car designed from the outset to excel on both road and circuit and having a bespoke Track setting among its drive modes and a lightweight but strong and stiff carbon fibre Monocage II body structure at its core.

McLaren’s acclaimed 720ps twin-turbocharged 4.0-litre V8 engine delivers acceleration from standstill to 200kph in 7.8 seconds, with Proactive Chassis Control II active suspension and carbon-ceramic disc brakes optimising dynamic performance and braking.

Owners can analyse their track driving using another element of the Track Pack, namely the McLaren Track Telemetry (MTT) system.

Using three video cameras built into the car and advanced data-logging software, MTT allows a driver to monitor their performance and understand where opportunities to improve lie. A range of real-time data is displayed – such as lap times, sector splits and driver comparisons – as well as video footage to spot missed apexes and premature or delayed braking points.

The Track Pack adds £28,360 (RM155,000) to the price of a McLaren 720S, which represents a saving over the cost of buying the individual Pack components separately.

The 720S Coupe in Performance specification with Track Pack is available to order from McLaren Automotive retailers for 2019 delivery, priced from £224,700 (RM1.2mil).

Pricing for the McLaren 720S GT3 is £440,000 (RM2.4mil) Ex Works, with customer deliveries also beginning in early 2019.


Audi Open Haus Promotion Begins

                KUALA LUMPUR: In conjunction with the festive season, Audi Malaysia has just launched the Audi Open Haus promotion at all of its nine authorised dealerships nationwide from June 5 to July 31.

The promotion features the Audi Progressive Plan step-up financing on all models (except the Audi R8).

This allows new owners to enjoy a low monthly instalment for the first year from RM999 for the Audi Q3, RM1,399 for the Q5 and RM1,499 for the A6 sedan.

Also from Jun 10 to 17, there will be a special Audi “Fresh!” Service Clinic whereby all Audi vehicles aged four years or older (inclusive of parallel imported vehicles).

These vehicles are qualified to get a comprehensive 21-point vehicle health check, a dust and pollen filter change (worth up to RM400), an Audi vehicle care kit as well as other maintenance services for only RM350.

On a softer note, Audi Malaysia will also be introducing a video series titled “Nak Ikut Boleh Tak?”; loosely translated as “Can I Tag Along”, a moving account of the unbreakable bond between two brothers, which is especially pertinent during this festive season.

For more information log on to www.audi.com.my/offers or the Audi Malaysia Facebook page at www.facebook.com/AudiMalaysia.


Swiss army tanks drive by night as roads go soft in the heat

German Leopard 2 tanks belonging to the German Army are loaded onto trains in Sondershausen, Germany last month before being deployed to Lithuania. Tank units are switching to night-time duty in Switzerland to protect roads melting in the summer heat. — dpa

VIENNA: Tank units are switching to night-time duty in Switzerland to protect roads, an army spokesman said today.

As the current heat is softening up the asphalt, the army's 57-ton vehicles can no longer drive on all types of roads during daytime, spokesman Daniel Reist told Swiss news agency sda.

Tanks could create holes and leave tracks, he added.

This year's heat record in Switzerland was measured on Sunday at 36.2 degrees in Sion in the south-west of the country. Temperatures are expected to rise even higher this week.

The army has also adapted to the heat by shifting strenuous activities such as marches to the early morning or late evening.

Superiors are under instructions to let their soldiers take breaks for drinking, and to monitor their intake of water, according to Reist.


Getting to know your Mercedes-Benz

PETALING JAYA: Cycle & Carriage Bintang Berhad (Cycle & Carriage) and Mercedes-Benz Malaysia recently hosted over 150 new Mercedes-Benz owners at the world’s first Mercedes-Benz Discovery Learning Programme.Overseeing Malaysia’s largest and most experienced Mercedes-Benz authorised dealer network, Cycle & Carriage presented a personalised approach to empower new owners to get better acquainted with the latest technologies and safety features of their vehicles.“We understand the advanced technology within a Mercedes-Benz vehicle and the all-encompassing customer services support system surrounding it may seem overwhelming to customers. This is why Cycle & Carriage sees the importance of a personalised approach through the Mercedes-Benz Discovery Learning Programme."Mercedes-Benz Malaysia has crafted it specially to help our customers get better acquainted with their vehicles and receive assurance of our capabilities in handling their technically advanced Mercedes-Benz vehicles,” said Cycle & Carriage CEO, Wilfrid Foo. A Cycle & Carriage Service Advisor explaining to customers the Pre-Safe and safety features in a Mercedes-Benz vehicle.The Mercedes-Benz Discovery Learning Programme featured an interactive agenda beginning with a live demonstration. This featured globally certified Cycle & Carriage Product Experts presenting a detailed demonstration of purposefully-designed features within a Mercedes-Benz, such as Park Assist and Hold functions among others.An informative sharing session followed next. Here, Cycle & Carriage service advisors took customers step-by-step through the Pre-Safe and safety features available within a Mercedes-Benz vehicle.Taking it a step further, Cycle & Carriage also helped customers understand more about its extensive expertise and repair facilities at its service centres spanning 10 locations across Malaysia, including its Daimler AG certified body and paint centres.Presently, Cycle & Carriage is supported by three major body and paint centres located in the southern, central and northern regions, namely Johor Bahru, Bukit Tengah and Batu Caves.Incorporating an interactive discovery experience, Cycle & Carriage displayed Mercedes-Benz vehicles for customers to personally explore at their own pace. Product Experts were on hand to take questions and enquiries by customers one-on-one.Following the one-on-one discovery experience, customers put their new found knowledge to the test through a practical demonstration. Here, customers tested the driving and safety functions.The day’s agenda concluded with a recap for customers to once again witness a live demonstration on key features presented earlier in the programme and have any further queries answered.


Mitsubishi enlists Israeli startup as Japan plays catch up on connected cars

                TOKYO:Mitsubishi Motors Corp has signed on to Israeli startup Otonomo's car-data marketplace as Japanese automakers race to make up ground on US and European rivals to provide in-vehicle connected services.

The first Japanese auto manufacturer to join a platform like Otonomo's, Mitsubishi Motors will get access to a network of some 100 retailers, insurers and others who will pay for the data and provide revenue-generating services such as parking apps, on-demand car washing and subscription-based refueling.

The initiative will roll out this year in the United States and Europe, with Japan following later, the companies said. They did not disclose the financial terms of the deal.

The Japanese have lagged in providing connected-car services, with just 30 percent of vehicles sold last year equipped with embedded connectivity, compared with more than half in the United States and Europe, according to consultancy SBD Automotive.

It could be a costly missed opportunity. McKinsey & Co. predicts the market for in-vehicle data will swell to as much as $750 billion by 2030.

In addition, the Japanese brands risk losing touch with an increasingly connected consumer globally.

"It is about understanding customer behaviours: how they use their cars and how they maintain them," Mo Al-Bodour, a Detroit-based analyst at SBD, said by email.

"This has implications that range from current customer relationships to how future products should be designed."

Other Japanese manufacturers have so far focused on building their own platforms.

Toyota has a subscription-based service called T-Connect, which offers things like real-time traffic information and links to a human operator for help with restaurant booking or getting assistance in the event of an accident.

Honda has developed a similar offering called Honda Connected, but it has partnered with Alibaba in China to develop connected services specific to that market.

What Otonomo offers is a way to scrub and standardise the data coming out of the vehicles and ensure its use conforms to the privacy laws of each region.

The four-year-old, Tel Aviv-based startup also has partnerships with Daimler and BMW. It expects to announce more tie-ups with car makers later this year, co-founder and CEO Ben Volkow said by email.


Tesla to buy battery tech maker Maxwell Technologies

                SAN FRANCISCO: Tesla Inc has agreed to buy energy storage company Maxwell Technologies Inc for US$218 million in an all-stock deal that could help the electric car maker produce batteries that hold more energy and last longer at a time when it needs to cut costs and faces growing competition.

Tesla is rapidly increasing production of its Model 3 sedan and needs to lower the price to reach a broader customer base than its pure luxury vehicles.

Maxwell executives told investors in January that it had developed and patented a “dry electrode” technology that could significantly increase the driving range and reduce the cost of electric vehicle batteries. In a presentation, Maxwell said it expected strategic alliances “within six months” centered around this technology.

The company also makes ultracapacitors, which discharge energy faster than batteries and are seen as complementing battery technology.

Ultracapacitors, combined with the energy of batteries, can enable rapid response times, function across a broader temperature range and lengthen battery life by up to two times, according to a blog post on Maxwell’s website.

Volvo-owner Geely Holding Group last May announced a deal with Maxwell and described the company’s ultracapacitor technology as helping to deliver “peak power” for hybrid cars.

“Tesla needs Maxwell’s solvent-free battery electrode manufacturing for a viable path to lower battery costs,” said Craig Irwin of Roth Capital Partners. “Real competitors are coming now, so Tesla needs to move fast.”

Maxwell’s customers also include General Motors and Lamborghini.

Currently, Japan’s Panasonic Corp is the exclusive battery cell supplier for Tesla cars.

Tesla chief Elon Musk had highlighted the importance of ultracapacitors back in 2013.

"I'm a big fan of ultracapacitors. Was going to do my PhD at Stanford on them. But we need a breakthrough in energy density...," Musk had tweeted here

Tesla also sells power storage, often in conjunction with its solar power business, and ultracapacitors could be used in backup systems for homes and for utility power grids.

Maxwell expects the deal, which has already been approved by its board, to close in the second quarter of 2019, or shortly thereafter.


Bentley posts record 2020 sales, thanks to China boost

                LONDON: Volkswagen’s luxury British automaker Bentley posted record sales of 11,206 cars in 2020 despite the Covid-19 pandemic causing the company’s factory to close during the first lockdown in England, as demand in China soared by nearly 50%.

The plant in northern England did not produce vehicles for seven weeks as restrictions were imposed in March and then ran at half normal output in the subsequent nine weeks, but new models helped to drive up demand overall, the carmaker said on Tuesday.

Demand increased by 48% in China thanks to the popularity of the new Flying Spur, and rose by 4% in the Americas, offsetting drops in Europe and the Middle East.

“As we look to the year ahead we remain cautiously optimistic as much remains uncertain,” said chief executive Adrian Hallmark.

Sales in 2020 were 2% higher than in 2019.


Honda aims BR-V at smaller families, too

                PETALING JAYA: Honda says a shift in local SUV/crossover ownership behaviour is encouraging it to introduce the seven-seat BR-V.

While the BR-V was built ostensibly to cater to big families, Honda is also trying to make a persuasive case for smaller families to acquire it, saying that smaller families are now also buying big passenger-carrying SUVs.

Citing an example, a Honda spokesman said: “It could be that a family of four would still buy it and use it to visit ageing parents staying in another part of the country.” And the extra space in the BR-V, he said, would come in handy to pick up extra passengers without the inconvenience of enlisting a second vehicle.

Fair enough. With Malaysians enjoying a number of “balik kampung” holidays such as Chinese New Year, Hari Raya and Deepavali every year, a people carrier that looks good would be an ideal vehicle to use for the style-conscious buyer.

Talking up the comfort levels in the third row, the Honda executive also said it would be a comfortable space even for senior citizens if they realise they could have more space by sliding second row seats forward. Like the second row, the backrest are also reclinable.

These were some of the nuggets of information glimpsed at a media briefing by Honda Malaysia during a drive in Bangkok last month.

The BR-V is an Asean project originating in Thailand and the model made its world debut in Indonesia last year before going on sale there and in Thailand, the Philippines and India.

It will soon make its Malaysian debut in the first quarter of 2017.

At the media briefing, Honda described the BR-V as “an exciting product” as it is the first time it is building a 7-seat crossover in this segment, and which will be priced affordably. In Thailand, the BR-V is also sold as a 5-seater. The 7-seater is priced at 820,000 baht (RM102,000) while the 5-seater is 750,000 baht (RM94,000).

It also described the exterior and interior design concepts as well as touch on the 1.5l-i-VTEC engine and the newly developed CVT. The engine is able to run on E85 biofuel.

With output at 118hp, ground clearance at 201mm and standard boot space at 223l, these are the highest figures in the segment, said Honda.

Safety equipment in the BR-V is commendable as it comes with hill-start assist, rear-parking camera, dual airbags and traction and stability control systems.


Pininfarina gives voice to Battista

                MUNICH: Automobili Pininfarina has revealed "Suono Puro" – the sound concept created for the Battista EV.

Aural sensations for the company's electric hyper GT have been created to align with the car's design, which it hopes would appeal to future owners.

The soundtracks came about after over 2,000 hours of composition, development and fine-tuning by vehicle and sound designers and engineers.

Pininfarina said Suono Puro comprised "well-being qualities" associated with the 432 Hz frequency. It likened the sounds to the positive emotional effect of Tibetan singing bowls and was used by classical music composers such as Mozart or Verdi.

At idle speed, the Battista's sound frequency is 54 Hz (down three octaves from 432 Hz). It claimed the effect of this frequency on the human body, which is on average made of 70 percent water, contributes to a sense of wellbeing.

"Our sound designers and engineers have crafted a unique, organic EV sound experience, something special and authentic for people experiencing the vehicle," said Pininfarina chief product and engineering officer Paolo Dellacha.

"It is a signature for Battista and the Automobili Pininfarina brand that is as recognisable, pure and individual as its design."

Customer deliveries of the car will start later this year.


2020 motorcycles: Simple designs and powerful engines

The AMB 001 is jointly produced by the motorcycle manufacturer Brough Superior and Aston Martin and is limited to 100 units.
COLOGNE: If you've ever thought of getting a motorcycle, this might be the year to finally do it. In 2020, the market is set to be flooded with a huge selection and variety.

According to industry expert Michael Lenzen, manufacturers are competing to offer a model in every segment.

Take Harley Davidson, for example. The brand is now offering an Enduro motorcycle for the first time, the Pan America, moving into territory previously dominated by companies like BMW, Ducati, KTM, Honda and Yamaha.

 Pan America.

At the same time, small manufacturers such as Herald Motor Company from England and Brixton Motorcycles, which is part of the Austrian KSR Group, are trying to impress bikers with simpler designs.

Their models range from 125cc to 500cc and are inspired by the classic scrambler or cafe racer look, providing affordable and beautiful alternatives to heavily powered motorcycles.

Especially Brixton's similar models Crossfire 500 and Crossfire 500 X and their pristine design present a countermovement to the trend to go higher, faster and stronger, Lenzen says. In his view, this development is reflected in models with up to 48 hp like the new Kawasaki W 800, which are great for beginners.

 Crossfire-500-X.

But new models are also about innovations and showcasing what is technically feasible, according to the expert. The 180-hp AMB 001, a joint production of British motorcycle manufacturer Brough Superior and British luxury sports car manufacturer Aston Martin, is one example. The motorcycle was launched as a limited edition of 100 and costs more than 100,000 dollars.

Meanwhile, the new edition of Honda's supersport classic CBR 1000 RR-R Fireblade should be far less expensive. But the Japanese have not yet given details about the price of this 217-hp machine.

 CBR 1000 RR-R Fireblade.

"Honda had fallen somewhat behind in the supersport segment in recent years and had to do something about it," explains Lenzen, who sees the new model as an attempt to regain pole position.

But not everyone enjoys that much power. According to Lenzen, many manufacturers are once again refocusing on the middle segment and thus reacting to the growing number of beginners and comebacks to the sport.

Italian manufacturer Aprilia, for example, is launching the new RS 660, a lightweight motorcycle with a straight twin engine.

 RS 660.

BMW probably also considers the crossover models F 900 R and F 900 XR to be within the mid-range segment, Lenzen suspects. Whether a motorcycle with 900 cc and 105 hp really still belongs in this segment, however, is open to discussion.

"But BMW wants it that way and has created a competitive Touring motorcycle in the two-cylinder range by enhancing its 800 series."

BMW has also announced the launch of the BMW R18 for 2020, which will be powered by the two-cylinder boxer engine Big Boxer.

 R18. F900 R. RevoNex.


Don't worry, your warranty intact during MCO period, Proton tells customers

                SUBANG JAYA: Proton car owners whose vehicle warranty is expiring during the movement control order (MCO) period need not worry.

Proton said today warranties expiring during the MCO period will be extended by 1,000km or 30 days following the final day of
the MCO, whichever comes first.

Although all its service outlets are closed during the MCO period, warranties would remain valid even if the vehicle misses its recommended service period, said Proton.

Customers are advised to service their vehicle within 30 days of the end of the MCO period to keep their warranties active, it said.

They should contact a Proton service outlet to book an appointment within 15 days of the end of the MCO period, it added.

The local Nissan distributor has announced a warranty extension as well while the global headquarters of Hyundai has declared a similar intent for its cars sold worldwide.


Petrol prices reach new high in Singapore — above RM10 per litre

Even after discounts, pump prices are still at their highest ever in Singapore. - The Straits Times/ANN
SINGAPORE: Fuel pump prices have reached another new high, with posted rates breaching previous records in early March - even though oil prices are around 15 per cent lower than in March.

According to Fuel Kaki, a fuel price tracker initiated by the Consumers Association of Singapore, a litre of diesel is between S$3 - RM9.56 (SPC, Sinopec) and $3.05 - RM9.72 (Caltex, Shell) - up to 15 per cent higher than the previous peak back in March.

A litre of 92-octane petrol now ranges from S$3.13 - RM10 (SPC) to S$3.20 - RM10.20 (Caltex), or 7 per cent higher than in March.

A litre of 95-octane petrol is between S$3.16 - RM10.07 (SPC) and $3.25 - RM10.36 (Shell, Caltex), while 98-octane petrol is between $3.64 - RM11.64 (SPC, Sinopec) and $3.74 - RM11.92 (Shell). This is around 0.5 per cent higher than their March highs.

The so-called premium 98-grade now ranges between S$3.77 - RM10.77 a litre (Sinopec) and $3.96 - RM12.62 a litre - also 0.5 per cent higher than their March highs.

The benchmark Brent crude last closed at around US$109 (S$150) a barrel on Thursday (May 19), down from nearly US$128 a barrel on March 8.

RBOB gasoline, however, had gone from nearly US$3.70 a gallon in March to US$4 early this week, before settling at US$3.80 on Thursday. RBOB gasoline is an approximate proxy for wholesale petrol.

After discounts, pump prices are still at their highest ever in Singapore.

For 92-octane petrol, Caltex has reclaimed its lead as the cheapest retailer, with a price of S$2.59 a litre (with OCBC Voyage card). But its rate of S$2.75 (with Unlimited Cashback card) is also the highest here after discount.

For 95-octane, Sinopec is still the cheapest at S$2.48 (OCBC cards) although it has only three stations here.

Among retailers with sizeable networks, Caltex offers the lowest rate of S$2.63 (with OCBC Voyage card), while Shell has the highest rate of S$2.93 (with UOB One card).

For 98-octane, which is necessary for only a minority of cars here, Sinopec again leads with $2.86 a litre. Among retailers with sizeable station networks, Esso's $3.03 is the lowest (with DBS Esso card), and Shell's $3.37 is the highest (with UOB One card).

With the latest increase, motorists are paying around 22 per cent more than in January for a litre of the popular 95-octane fuel after discounts.

Meanwhile, oil majors have been reporting a surge in profits.

According to reports compiled by USAToday, Shell trebled its first-quarter earnings to US$9.1 billion, while BP posted a first-quarter profit of US$6.2 billion – its highest in over a decade.

Exxon (marketing the Esso brand of fuels) more than doubled its earnings in the first three months of the year to US$5.48 billion, and Chevron (marketing the Caltex brand of fuels) posted first-quarter earnings of US$6.26 billion – more than four times what it made at the same time last year.


Wraith ‘Inspired by Music’ unveiled

LONDON: Rolls-Royce Motor Cars has introduced the Wraith ‘Inspired by Music’.

A Lyrical Copper exterior paint finish, presented with a blend of brushed and polished textures hints at the use of copper in high-end audio systems. On opening the car’s coach-doors, attention is drawn to re-imagined speaker grilles, here presented in copper theme, and engraved with the words ‘Bespoke Audio’.

The door panniers and floor mats have been crafted from finely-woven leather to add an additional depth of tactility to the car’s interior cabin. Copper-coloured door inserts, which start at the front of the cabin before tapering at the rear, have been included in the design to emphasise Wraith’s characteristic internal curves.

A book matched copper finish features for the first time on Wraith’s fascia,  extending the car’s theme. The same copper tone extends to Wraith’s signature seat bullets.

he chaplets on the clock have been designed and meticulously crafted with a combination of warming copper and silver, whilst the radial lines of the outer bezel playfully emulate the look and feel of vinyl records.

The Bespoke Audio system was created from scratch by a team of automotive audio engineers. The two-year development process saw the team work closely with Rolls-Royce interior designers to ensure the system was tuned to the interior of the cabin.

The sound and dynamic range is delivered via a 1300W, 18 channel system comprising two powerful bass speakers, seven tweeters and seven mid range speakers. Two ‘exciter’ speakers hand-fitted in the car’s headlining play a vital role in bringing the sound to the listener at ear-level; ensuring the output imitates the way music is experienced in a live setting. Microphones constantly monitor ambient and exterior noises and will adjust volume and tone settings automatically to ensure no external agent detracts from the user’s listening pleasure.

Wraith ‘Inspired by Music’ completes a trilogy of distinctive Bespoke Collections. The first, Wraith ‘Inspired by Film’ celebrates Rolls-Royce’s long association with the silver screen whilst, Wraith ‘Inspired by Fashion’ allows customers to commission a piece of automotive haute couture inspired by the materials and motifs of high fashion.


Facelifted 2019 Jeep Renegade to arrive in September

The current Jeep Renegade.
DETROIT: The Jeep Cherokee was recently unveiled in its refreshed 2019 model year form at the Detroit Auto Show, and according to Autocar in Britain, the Renegade will be the next Jeep model to benefit from a mild refresh for 2019 with some modest changes to its exterior styling and a raft of new technology inside.

It's probably not unfair to say the subcompact crossover has been something of a surprise success story for Jeep, especially in Europe where the brand has struggled during 2017.

The Fiat 500-based Renegade will probably get some revised LED daytime running lights and a few other tweaks here and there on the outside.

 The 2019 Jeep Cherokee.

But the spy shots of the new models that have been leaked so far appear to show that much of its retro-look will be retained, which is probably wise as the styling has to have been largely responsible for the Renegade's continuing popularity with buyers.

Bigger changes are set to take place inside the little Jeep, where there will be a larger infotainment screen replacing the current 6.5-inch unit, which will also take the place of the buttons and other controls that surround the screen at the moment.

The new screen will remain housed in the shaped surround it has now, which means it won't be occupying any more dashboard space than it does already.

The biggest development with the new model will be a 48-volt mild hybrid propulsion system based around a 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo petrol engine, which will eventually be offered in every vehicle in Jeep's line-up. And by the end of the decade, Jeep plans for every model, including the Renegade, to also have a plug-in hybrid variant available.

Although Jeep hasn't revealed exactly which motor show the new Renegade will be revealed at, the production vehicle has been confirmed as going on sale in Europe in September of this year, which suggests it will make its debut at a show in the first half of 2018.

Mike Manley, Jeep's CEO, said in an interview with Autocar, "With the Renegade growing in Europe, we are where we want to be. We have yet to complete the European rollout of the Compass, which is in Europe's biggest segment. In 2018, I'm looking for significant growth on 2017."


Nilai police to probe long line of cars parked on emergency lane

                NILAI: Photos showing a large number of cars parked on the emergency lanes on both sides of the Temiang-Pantai Highway went viral on social media on Sunday.

In confirming the event took place, Nilai district police chief Supt Mohd Fazley Ab Rahman said in a Facebook post today that the group were believed to be members of the FCCM-FC Club Malaysia – an auto club – who had pulled over to the emergency lane of the highway on Saturday to take pictures.

The long line of cars numbered almost 50.

Supt Mohd Fazley said Nilai police will call up some individuals from the group soon to have their statements recorded.

"We will call up the club head first and so far we have identified about 48 cars.

"Stopping and parking a vehicle on an emergency lane without a valid reason is an offence as it can pose a danger to other road users," he said.


Stretched Rolls-Royce Phantom gets Privacy Suite for, well, total privacy

                CHENGDU (China): Rolls-Royce has introduced improved privacy for rear passengers in the new Extended Wheelbase Phantom.

The car with the new feature known as Privacy Suite was showcased at the 2018 Chengdu Motor Show on Friday.

An electrochromatic glass allows front and rear cabins to be visually separated at the touch of a button. The rear occupant is offered the option to see through the glass and on to the road ahead or to quickly transform the glass to opaque, providing a convenient and absolute level of privacy.

The Privacy Suite is also heavily insulated against noise, providing what Rolls-Royce claims is the highest possible levels of acoustic insulation. A frequency-specific compound inhibits the transmission of conversations in the rear cabin to the front cabin.

A fully integrated intercom system allows communication on demand. Controlled by the rear passenger, the intercom system can be used to open a direct line to the driver at the press of a button whilst the driver is able to ‘call’ the rear occupants, who can choose to answer or reject the communication.

In addition, a large aperture controlled solely by the rear passenger allows documents or other objects to be easily passed between the front and rear cabins. When open, the aperture is illuminated to ensure passengers are satisfied with the nature of the documents or objects before they receive them.

A bespoke rear theatre entertainment system has also been integrated into the Privacy Suite, which includes two high definition 12-inch monitors linked to the motor car’s suite of fully connected software as well as an HDMI port that allows passengers to synchronise their highly secure personal devices. This is controlled from the centre console.

Rear Privacy Curtains have also been added allowing full closure of the side and rear window as well as Rear Privacy Glass, extending discretion when the curtains are open.


World's first car to come with built-in Apple Music is Porsche Taycan

                STUTTGART: Porsche is planning to become the first car maker to offer music streaming service Apple Music built into a model with their upcoming Taycan.

The fully electric roadster, which formally debuts in September, integrates Apple Music into its cockpit as standard, with the service available on the touchscreen display.

Apple Music subscribers can stream via the Taycan's three-year complimentary in-car internet data roaming package, meaning crossing borders shouldn't put a stop to your driving soundtrack.

However anyone considering the car simply because of the "free" Apple Music integration should note that even the €2,500 (RM11,637) downpayment for European buyers would get you roughly a lifetime subscription to Apple Music on your smartphone.

Expected to cost upwards of US$150,000 (RM633,000), the Taycan will be Porsche's first-ever electric car when it launches on the market at the end of the year.

With Porsche's voice assistant, you can request songs, albums, radio stations or even some of the playlists specifically created by Porsche.

This is the first-ever full integration of Apple Music in any vehicle, while other, new or existing Porsche owners will also receive up to six months free of the streaming service.

"Listening to music while driving can be an electrifying feeling," said Oliver Schusser, Vice President of Apple Music and International Content. "With the Taycan (..) customers now can choose Apple Music built-in seamlessly to find the perfect soundtrack for every drive.”


As Bugatti 'supercar' legend bows out, others wait in line

                GENEVA: They have fighter jet-type accelerations, custom-made interiors and seven-figure price tags: “supercars” are centre stage at the Geneva Motor Show, even as one of its legendary stars is bowing out.

The last Bugatti Veyron ever to be made has pride of place at the show for auto enthusiasts to bid farewell after the brand announced last month that it had sold the 450th and final model of the car with its 16-cylinder monster engine that produces up to 1,200 horsepower.

“With the Veyron we created a modern icon, and this show is an opportunity to put the car on a pedestal and celebrate, and say thank you to everyone involved, and close the chapter,” Stefan Brungs, Bugatti’s head of sales, told AFP.

Since the Veyron was unveiled to the world at the beginning of the 2000s, competitors have rushed to carve out a place in this exclusive world of cars that only the ultra-rich can afford.

Sweden’s Koenigsegg, for instance, boasts it makes not “supercars”, or even “hypercars”, but full-blown “megacars.”

 The first Veyron. was displayed next to the last one.

The company is presenting its Regera at the Geneva show, which opened to the public on Thursday.

The car comes with a hybrid powertrain that produces 1,500 horsepower, capable of accelerating from 0 to 400 kilometres an hour in 20 seconds.

That’s roughly twice the horsepower of a regular Formula 1 car, though the Regera is much heavier.

“Now it seems to be pretty normal to have almost  1,000 horsepower,” says Jens Sverdrup, the brand’s head of sales.

The cost?  Around US$2 million (1.8 million euros), or more depending on what you want added.

That’s the amount the thrill-seeking rich will also need to fork out for McLaren’s P1 GTR.

Like Aston Martin’s Vulcan, which also premiered in Geneva, it is a car destined for “gentlemen drivers” that can only be used on special tracks, and the price tag comes with piloting lessons included.

But Dave Eden, spokesman for the brand made famous by its Formula 1 success, warns that the P1 GTR will only be made available to those who already own the P1 road car -- a hybrid supercar unveiled in 2012 that already costs more than one million euros.

 Lamborghini Aventador SV. Koenigsegg Regera.

And orders for the GTR have been limited to just 40, a figure almost attained, he said.

“We’ve got people flying in from all over the world to see the cars,” Eden added.

While the stalls of more generalist brands are open to all, those of the “supercar” manufacturers are surrounded by glass barriers and entrances are guarded by imposing security men.

In front of the stalls belonging to Italy’s Ferrari and Lamborghini,  men gather in quest of selfies -- and also photos of models in figure-hugging dresses posing next to the vehicles of their desire.

Some brands, like Italy’s Pagani, make an effort for the vast majority of visitors who will never have the means to pay for such “supercars” by giving out posters.

“We sell cars but we give as a present dreams to car lovers all around the world,” says Luca Venturi, spokesman for Pagani.

“We are the kind of guys who used to have a Lamborghini Countach poster on the wall.”

 Pagani Huayra.

The brand manufacturers the “Huayra”, a carbon fibre Batmobile look-a-like whose interior is made of leather.

The price - 1.3 million euros, VAT not included.

As for Bugatti, its Veyron may be bowing out but the brand owned by Volkswagen has no intention of leaving it without heirs.

Bugatti still holds the speed record for a production car at 431kph, and its next vehicle “will be fascinating and even better than what you see here,” says Brungs.

“The car will come most probably next year,” he says.

“We love competition, and if someone tries to beat us, we’ll take this as a challenge, and we enjoy striking back.”


34,000hp and 73 BMW M cars delivered in one day

 An exterior view of the Welt in Munich.

MUNICH: The BMW Welt here held an extra "scrumptious" event recently.

At the end of May for one day only, 73 M cars with a total power output of 34,000hp, were handed over to their delighted owners, some of whom reacted as if they were kids in a candy store. But that's perfectly understandable. Some of you taking delivery of your own M car would be over the moon as well.

Among the impressive hardware were 45 limited M4 GTS.

The BMW Welt, located next to the BMW headquarters, is a multi-purpose exhibition centre that also doubles up as a car delivery centre for customers.

Watch the biggest delivery of M cars in one day the BMW Welt has ever seen.


First drive of new Toyota Camry

The Toyota Camry sedan has been ever-popular with Malaysians since the Japanese marque introduced it way back in 1994. Fast-forward to the present and the latest 2015 edition Toyota Camry has updated its looks, powertrain and features which makes this premium sedan even more attractive.

The Camry is available in three variants 2.0E, 2.0G and 2.5L Hybrid and is priced at RM149,900; RM159,900 and RM174,900 respectively. (All prices are on-the-road with insurance).

The most obvious change to the 2015 Camry is the top-of-the-range 2.5L which is only available as a hybrid. Its updated looks features an all-new front that has a powerful presence – the slender new upper grille and headlamps is unified by a chrome trim capping which runs the full width of the car.

The radiator grille has two designs to distinguish between the 2.0L and 2.5 Hybrid: a lateral fin type for the former and mesh type for the latter.

The rear bumper has been reprofiled for a three-dimensional look with dual exhaust tailpipes on the 2.0L variants.

The 2015 Camry has a bold, wide and low stance and profile-wise, it combines the clean, forward-leaning wedge shape of the previous 2012 generation with slightly increased front and rear overhangs.

The interior of the Camry for all variants features a black theme, a redesigned centre cluster with bevelled surfaces on the sides and an inverted U-shape in the middle.

And what would a Camry be without its woodtrim that gives it a premium feel and look?  The Camry Hybrid is fitted with Zebra wood while the 2.0L variants have Crotch wood which has swirling, irregular figures and gives off an enhanced sense of depth.

The instrument panel has been revised as well with chrome plating for a more luxurious look and clear blue illumination is now used in conjunction with white illumination for improved visual clarity under all lighting conditions.

A 4.2-inch colour Multi Information Display(MID) sits in between the speedometer and tachometer.

Members of the media were given the opportunity to drive the mid-range Camry 2.0G on the highways of the Klang Valley and there were competitor models including the previous generation 2.0 Camry for comparison.

The new Camry 2.0G has a brand new 4-cylinder 16-valve DOHC 1,998cc engine with a new and advanced variable valve timing system known as VVT-iW (variable valve timing - intelligent wide).

This system improves fuel economy and lowers emission while delivering enhanced power, performance and torque.

The Camry 2.0G pushes out 165hp at 6,500rpm and a maximum torque of 199Nm at 4,600rpm. It is mated to a new Multi-Mode 6-speed Super ECT automatic transmission with torque converter.

Driving the Camry 2.0G, it was apparent that the gear shifts and power delivery were smoother compared to the previous generation Camry.

Another stand out the new Camry offered was the best in riding comfort, handling and quietness.

And part of this is due to the new pre-load differential on the front axle which increases straight line stability during acceleration and cornering.

The front and rear MacPherson and independent strut suspension systems have also been fine tuned for ride comfort. In terms of quietness in the cabin, a lot of noise has been cancelled out due to the sound damping material in the front doors.

Even the windshield glass has acoustic-reducing properties which is achieved by inserting a polyvinyl layer between the two sheets of glass.

This layer of insulation helps reduce noise and absorbs chassis vibrations and specific soundwaves for a quieter interior.

The 2.0G and the Hybrid offers a comprehensive set of Active Safety Systems which include Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) with Traction Control and Hill Start Assist.

The Hybrid however comes with a Blind Spot Monitor which uses radar waves to detect other vehicles within a metre of the car.

The warning indicator is present on the door mirrors and will flash to alert the driver. The Hybrid also has a system of sensors for the Rear Cross Traffic Alert System which is useful when reversing out of a parking lot and the view is obscured. A buzzer will sound and the warning indicators on the door mirrors will flash if a vehicle approaching at a distance between 5.5 and 20m.

The Bind Spot Monitor and Rear Cross Traffic Alert System were tested in a controlled environment which was at the open car park at the Setia Alam Convention Centre. And while we didn’t manage to test the Camry Hybrid on the highway, there was an acceleration test provided which proved to be an eye-opener.

As it is a hybrid system, featuring a 2.5L engine which produces 202hp with 213Nm of torque with a small high-torque electric motor that produces 270Nm on its own.

All the twisting force of the small electric motor is at your disposal when starting off and the Camry Hybrid simply catapults you in a composed and safe manner.

Even though it was a brief experience of driving the new Camry 2.0G and Hybrid, it was enough to convey how exciting and relevant the Camry nameplate is after being around for 20 years.


Dutch firm aims to deliver first flying car in 2018

PAL-V says its vehicle is not a helicopter, in which the blades are powered by an engine. It is a gyroplane, in which the blades rotate because of airflow. — AFP
AMSTERDAM: From "The Jetsons" to "Chitty Chitty Bang Bang", flying cars have long captured the imagination.

While several futuristic projects are under way in different countries, a Dutch design may be the first one sold and soaring into the skies.

After years of testing, the PAL-V company aims to pip its competitors to the post. It is poised to start production on what they bill as a world first: a three-wheeled gyrocopter-type vehicle which can carry two people and will be certified for use on the roads and in the skies.

"This kind of dream has been around for 100 years now. When the first airplane was invented people already thought 'How can I make that driveable on the road?'," chief marketing officer Markus Hess told AFP.

The PAL-V (Personal Air and Land Vehicle) firm, based in Raamsdonksveer in the Netherlands, is aiming to deliver its first flying car to its first customer by the end of 2018.

The lucky owner will need both a driving licence and a pilot's licence. But with the keys in hand, the owner will be able to drive to an airfield for the short take-off, and after landing elsewhere drive to the destination in a "door-to-door" experience.

Different versions of a flying car are being developed in the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Japan, China and the United States.

But final assembly on the PAL-V will start in October, with the company seeking to be the first to go into commercial production.

The PAL-V uses normal unleaded petrol for its two 100hp engines, and can fly 400km to 500km at an altitude of up to 3,500 metres. On the road, it has a top speed of around 170kph.

In 2019, the company expects to produce between 50 and 100 vehicles, before ramping up to "quite a few hundred" in 2020.

It won't be cheap. The first edition, the PAL-V Liberty, costs 499,000 euros (RM2.4mil), while the slightly cheaper PAL-V Liberty Sport, to be made next, has a price tag of 299,000 euros (RM1.5mil).

PAL-V was founded in 2007 by Robert Dingemanse and pilot John Bakker.

"In the beginning it was, let's make a gyrocopter drivable," said Hess.

But the company, which has some 40 to 50 employees, realised the weight and length of a gyrocopter's blades gave the vehicle a high centre of gravity when driving, especially taking corners.

They have designed the car so at the flick of a button the blades fold down and gather like a bat's wings on the top.

And they have incorporated into the car a 2005 breakthrough — when the Dutch company Carver invented a tilting system for three-wheelers — to counter the high centre of gravity and make it roadworthy.

The company insists the PAL-V is not a helicopter, in which the blades are powered by an engine. It is a gyroplane, in which the blades rotate thanks to airflow.

Even if both engines cut out, the blades will still turn, so "even if you go at zero speed it still keeps rotating and you are not going to drop out of the sky," said Hess.

While he refused to divulge how many orders they have, he said the company "was more than satisfied".

Clients put down a non-refundable deposit of 10,000 to 25,000 euros (up to RM120,000) depending on the model. A third option is to put 2,500 euros (RM12,000) into an escrow account, which secures them a place in the line.

"In a sense, we are selling a dream," Hess said, standing next to the sleek, black first model developed in 2012 which has already put in "substantial hours" of flying and driving time.

Parts are on order, with the first already in stock. Once built, the vehicle will have to complete at least 150 flying hours, and undergo extensive tests to receive its certification from the Cologne-based European Aviation Safety Agency (Easa).

Hess defended the hefty price tag. It's not a lot more than "a super-duper sports car with a few extras," he said.

"Considering the extra certification standards we have to go through for aviation, and that a super-duper sports car can't even fly, we think it's actually a bargain."

The PAL-V staff know many inventors in other countries also developing flying cars, but remain unconcerned by the competition.

And Hess laughs when asked whether the skies will become too crowded.

People at first "cannot even imagine flying cars. Then suddenly when they start imagining it, they see millions of flying cars in the air."

That new reality, for the time being, is still a long way off, he said.


Mercedes' most powerful S-Class ever can hit 100kph in 3.3 seconds

                BERLIN: Even the luxury saloon talked up as the "best car in the world" can still use some extra muscle, Mercedes believes, and has announced an AMG-badged version of its S-Class with 802hp and breakneck acceleration.

When Mercedes-AMG launches the S 63 E PERFORMANCE hybrid in 2023, it will be the most powerful S-Class to date, makers say.

Although Mercedes has not yet named a price, it's also likely to be one of the most expensive S-Class models ever this side of a Maybach edition.

In its home market of Europe, Mercedes AMG is expected to ask for more than the €140,420 (RM648,000) needed for the current top-of-the-range S 580 e model.

The drive is the familiar V8 turbo with 612hp. This 4.0-litre engine is combined with a plug-in module. An electric motor on the rear axle contributes another 190hp. According to AMG, this makes for a whiplash-causing maximum torque of 1,430Nm.

Despite weighing a good two tonnes, the S 63 accelerates from a standstill to 100kph in 3.3 seconds at best (shaving about 2 seconds off the times for earlier standard models) and can hit speeds of up to 290kph.

Buyers won't be getting this car to reduce their carbon footprint, but Mercedes is throwing in a modest electric range of 33km from an electric motor powered by a rechargeable battery.

This feature also reduces the standard consumption to 4.4 litres (CO2 emissions: 100 g/km).

For the first time, AMG combines air suspension with active roll stabilisation and rear-axle steering in the S-Class.

In addition, the Panamericana grille, which is typical of all other AMG models, is being fitted for the first time on the S-Class, complete with massive air vents.


Global automakers expect tougher going in 2017 China sales

Traffic flowing on an overhead ring road in Beijing last month.- AFP
BEIJING: Global automakers reported a surge in China sales last year as consumers rushed to take advantage of a tax cut on small-engine cars, but cautioned 2017 would be tougher for the industry as the incentive is rolled back and the broader economy slows.

Toyota Motor Corp, Ford Motor Co and Nissan Motor Co Ltd on Friday each reported sales growth of 8 percent or better for 2016, although Honda Motor Co Ltd led the pack with a 24 percent growth.

Toyota, which reported an 8.2 percent rise in China sales last year, sees growth slowing in 2017 as slightly higher taxes keep some buyers away from the world's biggest auto market. It expects to sell at least 1.2 million vehicles, steady from 2016.

"We are not being strictly volume focused. We would like to do so (increase volumes) while boosting car quality and keep our customer base satisfied with our products and service," a Beijing-based Toyota spokesman told Reuters.

While Honda expects to sell more vehicles in China this year, it forecast a significantly slower growth rate of 7.4 percent, roughly in line with a slowing economy.

Demand for cars in China got a shot in the arm in 2016 ahead of a planned expiry of lower taxes at year-end. Sales will come under pressure this year, but not fall sharply, given a decision to slowly roll back the incentive instead of abruptly ending it.

The purchase tax on cars with engines of 1.6 litres or smaller in China, at 5 percent now, will rise to 7.5 percent this year before returning to 10 percent in 2018.

Overall passenger car sales in China could have dropped 2 percent this year had the tax cut expired on Dec. 31, but are now expected to grow by 3-5 percent, consultancy Automotive Foresight said.

Analysts, however, cautioned that car sales could fall in the first quarter as consumers fearing the policy would end in 2016 moved ahead their purchases instead of waiting until 2017.

"In late 2016 we definitely saw pull forward effects in engines below 1.6 litre. This will effect the Q1 negatively," a sales executive at a major foreign automaker told Reuters.

Honda posted the biggest growth in China sales last year among automakers reporting Friday, powered by a steady stream of new models, mainly in the hot sport-utility vehicle segment. Vehicle sales by Honda rose to 1.25 million in 2016, while Ford reported a growth of 11.9 percent to 1.24 million vehicles.

But with premium Lincoln brand car sales, which are not consistently included in monthly data releases, Ford's sales totalled 1.27 million, giving it an edge over Toyota and Honda.

All three, however, continued to lag Nissan Motor Co Ltd in China sales. Nissan's sales grew 8.4 percent to 1.35 million vehicles in the country last year.

General Motors Co and Volkswagen continue to be the market leaders in China. On Thursday, GM and its joint venture partners reported sales of 3.87 million vehicles in China for 2016, up 7.1 percent.

The full-year figures come in spite of sales slipping for several brands in the final month, with GM, Honda and Toyota all reporting a year-on-year drop for December with news China was not completely ending its tax incentive making its impact felt.


BMW M launching its first own car in 40 years

                MUNICH: Some four decades since the M1 became one of the best-known sports cars of the 1970s, BMW's single-lettered subsidiary M is now working on its first original car.

But this time this bit of Bavarian brawn won't be wedge-shaped sports car, but an SUV. The 5.11-metre-long XM is set to be BMW's most powerful off-road vehicle to date and also the most horsepower-packed ride from M.

According to the high-performance manufacturer, the vehicle can reach speeds of up to 270kph and will go on sale in April 2023 and cost upwards of €170,000 at home in Germany.

The engineers at M have also opted for a drive train with plug-in technology — a first for one of their flagship cars.

At its heart is a new, 4.4-litre V8 engine capable of 489hp, supported by a 197 hp electric motor. BMW puts system output at 653hp. If that's not enough, then wait for the version with 748hp, set to follow in late 2023.

READ MORE: BMW's 'cartoonishly ugly' XM sports utility divides the car world


Toyota downsizing in Thailand

                BANGKOK: Toyota Motor Corp's Thai unit has launched a voluntary redundancy program aimed at cutting around 800 subcontractors in Thailand due to economic problems in the southeast Asian country and abroad.

Thailand's economic slowdown, along with uncertainty over the global economy, have affected both the domestic automotive industry and exports since the beginning of the year, it said in a statement.

That has caused a reduction in production volume, overtime hours and monthly income offered to employees, it said.

The company has offered the redundancy package to around 800 subcontractors but more workers have applied for the scheme, said Phuphal Samata, the president of Toyota Thailand Worker's Union.

"There isn't overtime payment anymore, so many subcontractors may want to find other work and take this compensation package," he said.

Toyota commands about a third of the local auto market and has 18,000 workers in Thailand, 40 percent of whom are subcontractors, he said.

Thailand is a regional production and export hub for the world's top carmakers. The sector accounts for around 10 percent of the country's gross domestic product.

Domestic auto sales have declined almost every month on a yearly basis since May 2013 following the ending of a government car subsidy scheme in 2012.

In January, Toyota forecast Thailand's total domestic car sales would fall 10 percent in 2016 from a year ago to 720,000 units. It sees its own annual auto sales falling 9.8 percent from last year.

Job cuts at Toyota are unlikely to spread to other automakers as the firm has hired many workers since the car subsidy scheme, said Surapong Paisitpattanapong, spokesman for the Federation of Thai Industries' Auto Industry.

"I don't think others will immediately follow suit because May's auto production, exports and domestic auto sales are growing. There's still hope," he said.


Nissan Micra successor is an all-new electric compact

                PARIS: Nissan has announced an all-new compact electric vehicle coming to European markets.

Planned to be made in the Renault ElectriCity centre in France, the new car will succeed the iconic Nissan Micra as the entry-level vehicle in the Nissan line-up.

The Europe region is already playing a key role in driving electrification under Nissan’s Ambition 2030 vision, with new vehicles and technologies arriving soon including the new Nissan Ariya, a new EV crossover and Nissan’s unique e-POWER technology arriving in Europe in the new Qashqai and X-Trail.

The all-new electric compact car will further enhance this future line-up.

Announced recently as part of the new Alliance 2030 roadmap, it is designed by Nissan and engineered and manufactured by Renault on the Alliance CMF B-EV platform. This platform enables the companies to maintain unique styling for their respective products.

The EV announced adds to the portfolio of Nissan vehicles made by Renault in France, which include Nissan’s portfolio of LCVs, notably the new Nissan Townstar, which is succeeding the e-NV200 as Nissan’s small electric van.


Jail for Maserati driver over hit-and-run accident with pedestrian

Wong was disqualified from holding or obtaining all classes of driving licences for five years from his date of release. — ST
SINGAPORE: A Maserati driver involved in a hit-and-run accident with an elderly pedestrian, who suffered multiple fractures, was sentenced to 16 weeks’ jail and a fine of S$800 on Thursday (March 23).

For causing grievous hurt to Foo Kok Kam, 85, while driving in an inconsiderate manner in 2020, Wong Kim Punn, 52, was disqualified from holding or obtaining all classes of driving licences for five years from his date of release.

Wong, who used to own businesses including one called Fragrant Florist, pleaded guilty in February to multiple charges under the Road Traffic Act.

He was involved in another traffic accident in 2019.

According to court documents, he was driving the car at the cross junction of Ophir Road and Victoria Street in December 2019 when it collided with a cyclist.

At around 11pm on July 9, 2020, Wong was driving along East Coast Road when the car struck Foo.

Footage obtained by the prosecution showed Wong’s car hitting Foo who was crossing the road slowly. The elderly man was then flung into the air before landing on the ground.

In earlier court proceedings, Deputy Public Prosecutor Chee Ee Ling said: “After the collision, the accused slowed his car down for a while, however he did not stop and proceeded to drive away from the scene without rendering assistance to the victim.”

An eyewitness made a police report that a blue Maserati had knocked down the elderly man.

Wong’s car was later seized and sent to the Health Sciences Authority, along with Foo’s shorts.

Investigators later discovered that some materials found on Foo’s garment could have originated from the right fender and bonnet of the car.

Following the accident, Foo suffered injuries including multiple fractures in the pelvic area.

He was then given hospitalisation leave of 43 days and had to use a wheelchair for more than two months.

Defence lawyer Selva Naidu from Liberty Law Practice had earlier told the court that was no allegation that his client was driving over the speed limit in the area.


Nikola, Bosch to build fuel-cell power modules at Arizona plant

                PHOENIX: Nikola Corp said today it had signed a deal with Germany's Bosch Group to build Bosch fuel-cell power modules at the US vehicle maker's facility in Coolidge, Arizona for two of its trucks powered by hydrogen fuel-cells.

Bosch, which has a stake in Nikola, will supply fully assembled fuel-cell power modules and other major components to the Phoenix, Arizona-based company.

A fuel-cell power module is a system that generates electricity from hydrogen in vehicles and is essentially used in commercial vehicles.

The truck maker will then assemble them at its manufacturing unit in Coolidge for its regional and long-haul commercial semi-trucks.

Nikola expects to launch the fuel-cell power modules in 2023.

The announcement comes over a month after Nikola's founder Trevor Milton was criminally charged with defrauding investors by lying to them about the company's products and technology.

Nikola in August halved its annual deliveries estimate and slashed its revenue forecast as supply chain issues drove delays in receiving certain parts.


LTS Group awarded MAN’s CLA Customer of the Year

PETALING JAYA: Leading transportation service provider, Lee Ting San Group of Companies (LTS Group) has been named Malaysia’s Cargo Line A (CLA) Customer of the Year 2016 by MAN Truck and Bus.LTS Group is the largest container haulier in Malaysia and commands a fleet of close to 1,000 vehicles that support its nationwide and cross-border transportation services.The company has a total of 90 MAN CLA trucks, 40 of which was acquired in 2016 and early this year, it has also expanded its fleet by 70 MAN TGS prime movers.LTS Group was the only award recipient from Malaysia among other MAN award winners from the Latin America, Middle East, Africa and Asia Pacific regions. This is the first year the CLA Customer of the Year recognition is presented to MAN’s biggest CLA customers worldwide.Lee Kah Chye, CEO of LTS Group who received the award from MAN Truck and Bus at the recently held IAA Commercial Vehicles 2016 (IAA 2016) said “LTS is honored to receive this award. We are thoroughly convinced about the German-engineered CLA and the good service network that MAN provides”. Jeroen Lagarde, MAN Senior Vice President and Head of Sales for Overseas Region (right) presenting the CLA Customer of the Year Award 2016 to Lee.He was among several senior representatives from 13 haulier, logistics and oil and gas companies from Malaysia that joined MAN Truck and Bus (M) Sdn Bhd to visit the world’s largest commercial vehicles trade show held in Hanover, Germany last month, followed by a visit to MAN’s manufacturing plant in Munich.The 10,000 sqm exhibition space at the IAA was the stage for an impressive presentation from MAN. Showcased was the TG model series that offer engines with new power levels, finely tuned transmissions and a number of new interior and exterior design features. Another highlight at the fair was MAN’s optimized engine programme that can help improve fuel consumption and ensure increased performance.The company also introduced the fully electric MAN Lion’s City articulated bus with different charging infrastructure concepts as well as an MAN TGS semitrailer tractor with electric drive for use in applications relating to inner-city night-time supply.With altogether more than 5,500 trucks sold at the IAA, MAN has far exceeded its own expectations. Sales expectations for the IAA were also exceeded in the bus sector. A total of more than 350 vehicles are on the company’s order list. MAN also had the chance to symbolically hand over the 7,500th MAN Lion’s Coach at the IAA.“We are delighted at the trust and confidence that our customers have in MAN Truck and Bus to be a reliable partner in their business. We hope to be able to continue to play a significant role in contributing to an efficient and reliable logistics and transportation system in Malaysia”, said Hartmut Mueller, Managing Director of MAN Truck and Bus (M) Sdn Bhd.


DS 4 Crossback Moondust launched in UK

                LONDON: DS Automobiles, the premium brand of Groupe PSA, is launching a new limited edition: DS 4 Crossback Moondust.

The exclusive model - of which only 25 are available in the UK - features a matt paint finish and higher levels of equipment.

Its platinum grey colour also has a special matt paint finish, similar to that used on the capable DS 3 Performance Black model.

The DS 4 Crossback Moondust includes Basalt Black grained-leather seats, Mirror Screen for smartphone access, DS LED Vision for a better view of the road and a reversing camera.

It also features 18 inch gloss black ‘Brisbane’ alloy wheels, Front parking sensors, Blind spot monitoring system, Lane departure warning system, Reverse-dipping door mirrors and Aluminium sports pedals.

There is a choice of three engine / powertrain combinations consisting of the BlueHDi 120 diesel, the award-winning PureTech 3-cylinder petrol engines and the latest ‘quick-changing’ EAT6 (Efficient Automatic Transmission with 6-speeds).


Suzuki Belang 150 is street savvy

Other than the Yamaha FZ150i, there are not many locally assembled motorcycles that fall in the 150cc category (Kawasaki D-Tracker 150, KLX150S and the two-stroke Ninja ZX150 come to mind).

In this regard, the Suzuki Belang 150 is a welcome addition, though it differs from all the three bikes mentioned earlier in the sense that it is still based on an underbone frame design.

This gives the Belang a slim profile, making it a highly suitable urban commuter when the rider needs to do lane splitting on a daily basis.

A slim profile is only half of the story, as the Belang is fitted with an eager mill that can give the rest a run for their money.
The Suzuki Belang makes use of an oil cooler (but no fan) to keep temperatures in check.
In engine capacity, the Belang sits at the top of Suzuki Assemblers Malaysia Sdn Bhd’s seven offerings.

The 147cc engine with double overhead camshaft and four valves pulls strongly when the throttle is opened, giving it a good spread of torque for overtaking or just to keep up with traffic flow.

As a bonus, the rear view mirrors offer good viewing angle and are pretty much vibration-free.

The feeling of power delivery is smooth, though it does take a while to nudge the Belang to triple digit speeds.

But at speed, it is heartening to note that it feels solid and planted, courtesy of the robust chassis and swing-arm suspension.

It is just a pity that the Belang is still using a carburettor, when many of its peers are moving to fuel injection, like the FZ150i, for example.

I am not sure whether it is due to the carburettor system, but cold morning starts is not such a smooth affair, and the bike does seem to need a few minutes to warm up before the jerkiness disappear.

Braking, while adequate, is not entirely crisp in feeling, which is a bit of a letdown.

The bike runs on six speeds, which is a good thing, and I am glad to note that it has a top gear indicator.

Shifting is reasonably smooth, though the gear lever takes some getting used to.

Like large bikes, the Belang also employs the one-down-rest-up gear shifting pattern.

However, it wasn’t possible for me to just rely on my toe, and I was forced to use the toe-and-heel way of shifting as I was not able to put my feet (wearing a pair of sneakers) under the front lever due to insufficient space.

Fuel economy is outstanding, at 42km per litre in a mostly urban cycle.

Lubricant change without removing the filter takes only one litre of oil, making this another plus.

When viewed in entirety, the Belang is a pretty decent ride for urban trips as well as the occasional run to nearby towns.

Due to its relatively lack of heft (108kg dry), the Belang also makes a perfect bike for those beginning to venture into bikes with clutches.

The handling and overall balance makes this bike a rider-friendly one.

Launched in April 2009, the Belang retails at RM7,620, while the limited edition, launched in July this year (the version tested by us) costs RM7,720.


Your phone can already help find your car

                BERLIN: With a smartphone in their pocket, drivers can safely forget where they've parked their car. That's because apps and digital assistants will remember for you.

You can easily mark the parking space using the Google Maps app (Android and iPhone), for example. The blue dot shows the current position; for safety's sake you can tap on the GPS symbol again when getting out of the car.

Tap the blue dot and select the option "Save your parking". Next to the marker on the map it you'll see the label “You parked near here”. If you get lost, simply enter "Parking location" in the Google Maps search bar and the app will navigate to the parked car.

Other map and navigation apps offer similar features, for example Apple Maps, Maps.me and Sygic. When you save the location, you assign it a name, preferably with a date.

What about when there's weak signal in an underground car park?

In general, locating a parking space outdoors is usually possible without any problems. If you're in an underground car park and have weak GPS signal, you can record the location at the entrance and also record the level and parking space number with a photo. Some apps also use wi-fi or mobile data to determine your position.

You can also find your parking space with the help of a voice assistant. Apple's Siri navigates to your car if the parking space was previously saved with iPhone and CarPlay.

Three settings are required on an iPhone: “Location Services” must be activated under Settings / Privacy, the “Significant Locations” option under Settings / Privacy / Location Services / System Services and the “Show parked location” option under Settings / Maps.

The parking space is saved when there is a correct connection to CarPlay or to the car's Bluetooth system. If you want to go back to the car later, just ask Siri: "Where did I park?"

Location services must also be activated on Android. Press and hold the home screen button on your smartphone or say “Ok Google” when getting out of the car. Then say "I parked here." To find your way back to the car, just ask Google Assistant: "Where have I parked?"

There are also special apps for saving car parking spaces, for example Find My Car or ParKing.


Drivers waste billions on parking searches, overpayments, says INRIX study

                DETROIT: Motorists in the United States, Germany and Britain spend billions each year in time and fuel searching for parking spots then pay for more time than they need to avoid tickets that would likely cost less, concludes a study released on Wednesday by traffic data aggregator INRIX.

As cities become more congested, the direct and indirect costs of parking are a headache for motorists and policy makers, who often have conflicting goals.

Drivers want cheap, plentiful parking while governments in many large cities want to discourage vehicle traffic, reduce congestion and cut the air pollution generated as cars hunt for on- or off-street parking.

Automakers and technology companies, meanwhile, hope to profit from guiding motorists more smoothly into parking spaces using smartphone apps or technology that automates parking maneuvers.

Closely held INRIX of Kirkland, Washington provides traffic data to parking services and automakers and owns the parking reservation app ParkMe.

The study of parking costs was based on information from the company's parking database and survey responses from 18,000 drivers in 30 cities in Britain, Germany and the United States, the company said.

The study concluded that in the United States, the average driver overpays for parking by US$97 a year by buying more time than needed while average parking ticket costs are US$12 a year.

INRIX estimates that searching for a parking space in major U.S. cities costs motorists an average of US$345 a year in lost time and wasted fuel.

In the UK, motorists pay for excess parking time by an average of 209 pounds (US$269), although average parking ticket costs are 39 pounds a year, the study found. The search for parking consumes time and fuel valued at 733 pounds.

In Germany, INRIX estimates motorists pay 98 euros (US$112) more than needed for their parking, to avoid an average 8 euros in parking fines. Germans waste an average 896 euros a year hunting for places, the study found.

INRIX found that fewer than 10 percent of respondents in the three countries used one of many smartphone apps designed to help motorists find, reserve and pay for a space in advance of using it.

Asked what they would pay for "smart parking" technology, INRIX said 43 percent of respondents said nothing.


Chinese web-video tycoon raises over US$1bil for electric car

                BEIJING: China’s Le Holdings Co has raised US$1.08bil (RM4.5bil) to develop its electric sports car that has drawn comparisons to the Batmobile, the latest in a series of alternative energy vehicle investments even as the industry is set for a Chinese government shake-up.

The Beijing-based company, also known as LeEco, has attracted a group of Chinese investors for the project’s initial funding, including Legend Holdings Corp., Yingda Capital Management Co. and China Minsheng Trust, it said in a statement Tuesday.

LeEco joins a bevy of startups to have announced fundraising completions as the industry hangs on the verge of a major shake-out. The government is imposing stricter technology standards and considering limiting the number of manufacturers to 10.

WM Motor, founded by Freeman Shen, former Zhejiang Geely Holding Group Co. top executive, said last month it has raised US$1bil to prepare it to challenge Tesla Motors Inc.

LeEco’s billionaire founder Jia Yueting, who built his wealth from video platform Leshi Internet Information & Technology Corp, said in April financing had been the weakest link for the electric-car project.

NextEV Inc., another Chinese electric-car startup with ambitions of unseating Tesla, last year raised funds from investors including Sequoia Capital and Joy Capital as part of plans to develop affordable, connected green cars.


BMW shifts past German rivals' diesel pain with e-car push

                MUNICH: BMW AG is setting its sights on the future, with plans to boost spending on electric cars and self-driving features to move on from the German auto industry’s diesel woes.

A day after agreeing to upgrade newer diesel cars and offer trade-in incentives on older models, BMW underscored its focus on managing the transition to an era of electric-powered robo-taxis. The Munich-based manufacturer has also taken on a more combative tone, pointing the finger at rivals Volkswagen AG and Daimler AG as being behind the curve.

“No established competitor has been able to put as many electrified vehicles onto the roads as we have,” chief executive officer Harald Krueger said Thursday. The company will also be able to build conventional, hybrid and battery-powered variants on the same assembly lines, with such flexibility being a “key to success in times of volatility and uncertain forecasts,” he said.

BMW had the most decisive response to the emergency diesel talks in Berlin on Wednesday that sought to stave off looming driving bans in cities. It announced an offer of €2,000 (RM10,160) to trade in older diesel cars for an electrified or new diesel model, while Volkswagen and Daimler lacked details. BMW is also the only carmaker offering an EU-wide incentive, Krueger said on a conference call.

The maker of BMW, MINI and Rolls-Royce cars also has a lower burden to bear in the deal with the German government, recalling 300,000 cars compared with 900,000 for Daimler and 3.8 million for Volkswagen. Krueger, who repeatedly insisted that his company’s cars are cleaner than rivals, literally sought to separate himself from his counterparts by standing a noticeable distance from Volkswagen’s Matthias Mueller and Daimler’s Dieter Zetsche during a press conference to present the results of Germany’s unprecedented diesel summit.

Wednesday’s deal has failed to cool criticism carmakers are getting an easy way out of the emissions crisis. It will also need to convince judges, who have the power to enact driving bans in municipalities failing to meet air quality standards. Last week, Stuttgart’s administrative court ruled the city’s current plan to meet regulation is inadequate, and criticised software upgrades as insufficient to lower nitrogen oxide levels. Broad diesel bans were the quickest option to finally meet regulation, according to Judge Wolfgang Kern. The decision will likely be appealed at the federal administrative court, whose ruling will act as a blueprint for other cities considering bans.

Germany’s diesel summit was “disappointing,” and offered little new information over what was already announced by carmakers, according to Bloomberg Intelligence analyst Michael Dean.

Money-spinning

BMW is ramping up spending not only on future technology but also on potential money-spinning models like the 8-Series luxury coupe and the full-sized X7 sport utility vehicle. The models are part of plans to introduce 40 new or overhauled autos in coming years to counter Mercedes-Benz’s surge to number one in global luxury-car sales. The goal is to maintain profitability even as investment pressure increases.

Despite the strains of what the company calls “the largest model offensive” in its history, BMW is maintaining growth. Earnings before interest and taxes rose 7.5% to €2.93bil (RM14.89bil) in the second quarter, as the revamped 5-Series sedan helped lift auto margins to 9.7% from 9.5%.

Doing homework

“This solid result shows that BMW, despite the diesel discussion, is well on track operationally,” said Marc-Rene Tonn, a Hamburg-based analyst at Warburg Research. “They’re doing their homework and are coming up with strong models.”

BMW stuck to a goal to slightly increase full-year deliveries and pretax profit, and raised its revenue outlook for the autos segment to a “solid” gain from a previously expected “slight” increase. The second-quarter pretax figure jumped 9.2% to €3.06bil (RM15.5bil).


Silicon Valley automotive ethernet chip startup Ethernovia raises US$64mil

                SAN FRANCISCO: Silicon Valley automotive ethernet chip startup Ethernovia Inc said today it had raised US$64 million in a Series A funding round including Porsche Automobil Holding SE, Qualcomm Ventures, VentureTech Alliance and others.

As automakers pivot to electric vehicles with more driver assistance functions, they are revamping the electronics to eliminate dozens of cables that crisscross the car linking up over 100 microchips.

Instead, they are building a central computer to control everything from camera and radar sensors to the windows and the entertainment dashboard.

Ramin Shirani, Ethernovia's co-founder and CEO, said he started the company in 2018 to build a single ethernet network in the car that would be the backbone for these new vehicles.

"We're not the brains of the car. We're not the sensors of the car. But anything that connects the brains to the sensors, that's where we are," said Shirani.

Ethernovia has created a family of ethernet chips and software that help simplify the electronics architecture of the car, he said.

The company said that the funding would be used to continue developing the products and to build up a team for marketing, sales and customer support. It declined to share the latest company valuation.