New Mercedes-AMG E 53 to replace E 43

                STUTTGART: A new Mercedes-AMG E 53 4Matic has been unveiled in saloon and estate body styles to replace the current E 43. The new model will slot into the manufacturer's range as a speedy understudy to the full-blown E 63 and E 63 S variants.

The car uses AMG's new 3.0-litre inline six-cylinder petrol engine with EQ Boost technology. The EQ Boost will provide an additional 22hp and 250Nm of torque, bringing the model up to 435hp and 520Nm of torque.

The EQ Boost system uses a starter-alternator fitted in between the engine and transmission. The idea is to enhance driving performance at the same time as reducing fuel consumption and emissions. Mercedes claims it can deliver up to 7.2l/100km on the combined cycle, and that the car emits just 200 g/km of carbon dioxide.

While the numbers for the fuel economy and emissions don't sound startling for a car today, they become considerably more impressive when they're combined with performance figures. They show the AMG E 53 will have a top speed that's electronically limited to 250kph, and it will get to 100kph from a standing start in as little as 4.5 seconds.

The new model also features as standard an AMG Speedshift TCT 9G gearbox delivering extremely short shift times, a rapid response to shift paddle commands, a double-declutching function and multiple downshifts.

Other standard features that set the new E 53 apart from the crowd include: 19-inch alloy wheels; AMG performance exhaust, Ride Control suspension and Dynamic Select with a choice of driving modes; Command Online with a 12.3-inch infotainment display; a 12.3-inch cockpit display; a Multibeam LED Intelligent Light System and Nappa leather upholstery in black with red contrast stitching.

There's also wireless phone charging, a parking package with a 360° camera, and a memory package that includes electrically adjustable front seats and steering column.

Orders are open now, and deliveries will start in July.


Continental UltraContact UC7 for passenger cars and MPVs

                KUALA LUMPUR: Continental Tyres is rolling out the new UltraContact UC7 in Malaysia.

It's the first of the German tyre maker's Generation 7 products and is marketed as an all-round tyre that prioritises safety, with an emphasis on exceptional noise reduction and long drive life.

The tyre caters to a wide range of passenger cars and MPVs and is available from 15” – 18” tyre size fitments.

Continental did not reveal prices in its statement. The tyre is already on sale at dealerships but is available in selected sizes for now. More will come.

According to Continental, the UltraContact UC7’s outstanding wet performance comes from shorter braking distance and outstanding grip on wet slippery roads, thanks to the Aqua Channel Advanced surface sipes on the centre part of the pattern which efficiently evacuate water to reduce the risk of hydroplaning.

Simultaneously, the innovative Noise Breaker 3.0 design with Flow X-celerator leverages the Venturi Effect principle to accelerate water flow through the groove, improving surface contact between rubber and road.

The UltraContact UC7’s Diamond Compound formulation is said to enhance the transformation of kinetic energy into heat at optimum levels, resulting in shorter braking distances even on wet roads.

The tyre's quieter nature is a result of reduced noise levels and smooth vibrational frequency.

As sound waves travel through the grooves, the Noise Breaker 3.0 interrupts the waves by disrupting the homogeneity of the grooves.
The sound waves are broken up and dissipated into smaller waves, preventing noise from building up and travelling into the cabin of the car.

The Diamond Compound with whisper touch also contributes to reduced noise generation by absorbing impact from the road.

The long drive life comes from the Diamond Compound’s optimised polymer network, which provides wear resistance for long-lasting tread life.


BlackRock joins e-car charging venture Ionity in US$788mil funding round

                FRANKFURT: BlackRock, the world's largest money manager, has joined electric vehicle charging (EV) venture Ionity in a 700 million euro (US$788mil/RM3.3bil) funding round, providing a much-needed cash injection to speed up construction of high-power loading sites.

The investment, which also includes contributions from existing shareholders, will enable Ionity to more than quadruple the number of high-power 350 kilowatt charging points to 7,000 by 2025, Ionity said today.

Ionity did not provide a detailed breakdown of the funding round, in which existing investors Volkswagen, Daimler, BMW, Ford and Hyundai also participated.

Sources said last month that BlackRock alone was close to investing around 500 million euros in Ionity.

"Ionity really stood apart in terms of the maturity of the business and the sophistication of the existing partnerships," said David Giordano, Global Head of Renewable Power at BlackRock.

Founded in 2017 to accelerate the installation of charging stations along European motorways, Ionity now operates more than 1,500 charging points in 24 countries.

BlackRock's investment in Ionity makes it the venture's first shareholder from outside the automotive industry, highlighting the growing interest in the EV sector, which not only covers production of cars but also vital infrastructure.

"It's the coupling of the energy and mobility sector in particular that makes it an attractive asset," Ionity CEO Michael Hajesch said.

He said that Ionity was likely to seek additional manufacturers for its hardware, which is so far mainly being built by ABB and Australia's Tritium, as part of the expansion plan.

Asked whether Ionity would pursue an initial public offering (IPO) or a deal with a special acquisition purpose company (SPAC), in its next growth phase, Hajesch said this was difficult to predict due to the market's dynamic development.

"And that's great. One has many options."


'Driving means freedom': Automobility for people with disabilities

                BERLIN: Tina Schmidt-Kiendl is faster in her wheelchair than some people are on foot.

And she stopped feeling arm and shoulder pain from propelling it long ago. Nevertheless, all it takes to remind her that she's physically disabled is something as simple as a kerb that's too high.

But there's one place where the 46-year-old German, whose legs have been paralysed since she suffered a herniated disc, is as mobile as someone who's perfectly healthy: behind the wheel of her MINI, which she accelerates and brakes using hand controls.

"To me, driving means freedom," she says.

And she wants other people with disabilities to enjoy this freedom to the fullest extent possible.

So she developed, with the support of her employer, Munich-based carmaker BMW, what she says is the first driver safety training course for people with a physical disability.

The aim is to impart the competence and confidence they need for safe driving.

"No one wants to be in an accident, of course," says Schmidt-Kiendl, who is one of the course instructors.

"But we've got to be extra careful and also think for others, because the disabled often can't free themselves from a car without others' help."

She may have found an important niche, because "more disabled people drive cars than you think," she says.

Making this possible are car modifications that compensate for the driver's disability, notes Achim Neunzling, founder and chairman of Germany's Association of Disabled Car Owners (BbAB).

They include an extra ring on the steering wheel to replace the accelerator pedal, and a hand lever for braking. Wider doors and lifing mechanisms for wheelchairs, and even complete refittings, are further options.

The modifications made for Janis McDavid, a 30-year-old motivation trainer who was born without arms or legs, show how extensive they can be.

He rolls his wheelchair into the rear compartment of his Mercedes-Benz Sprinter via a ramp, climbs behind the steering wheel and operates the vehicle with a small joystick that he clamps under his shoulder.

He says he's driven more than 300,000km this way.

These vehicles - some of which are standard models while others, like McDavid's, are bespoke solutions in the extreme - are provided by automobile retrofitters and car rehab companies.

ADAC, the German motorists' association, lists more than 50 of them in car-loving Germany. In addition, some automakers offer disabled-friendly modifications by custom order.

Of course, not all adapted vehicles are as expensive as McDavid's, which cost a six-figure sum. "But just hand controls for accelerator and brake, and a PRN satellite, will quickly run you €7,000  (RM34,000)," says Neunzling.

The latter is an ergonomic grouping, around the steering wheel, of controls for things such as headlights, windscreen wipers, turning indicator, hazard lights, rear window heater and horn, allowing their operation without having to remove your hands from the wheel.

Disabled persons must not only overcome physical and technical obstacles to drive, but plenty of bureaucratic ones too. "As varied as physical disabilities can be, so too are the legal principles and individual regulations meant to make autonomous mobility possible for everyone in our society," writes the ADAC in a text providing advice on the subject.

Schmidt-Kiendl puts it more starkly: "You've got to look for a long time before you find the right contact person, and then you have to do lots of paperwork before your disability is entered in your driving licence, and the adaptations in your vehicle registration document. In the best-case scenario, you can also find someone to pick up some of the costs for it all."

According to Neunzling, carmakers will often grant disabled persons rebates upon presentation of their disability ID and in some countries people with disabilities of certain grades are either partly or fully exempt from the motor vehicle tax.

But even if this is the case, it's rarely enough to cover the extra costs that disabled drivers incur.


New services are sharing spotlight with new cars at LA Auto Show

                LOS ANGELES: Volvo and Lincoln are both launching new services that will make luxury car ownership simple, hassle-free and extremely attractive to the next generation of drivers.

The concept of personal mobility is changing and established automakers are moving quickly to adapt to what is going to be a huge shift for the industry as a whole.

On the Volvo stand, alongside the North American debut of its smallest premium SUV, the XC40, the company introduced "Care by Volvo" a service that is meant to make owning a car as simple and hassle-free as owning a smartphone on an all-inclusive contract.

In fact, Volvo says the smartphone market directly inspired the new service, which allows owners to essentially take out a subscription on a car.

"Care by Volvo takes the guesswork out of car ownership, covering insurance, service, maintenance and basically everything except gas," said Volvo Cars USA president/CEO Anders Gustafsson.

For a flat fee of US$600 (RM2,445) a month for a 24-month period, every aspect of car ownership is covered, even wear and tear on the tyres. The entire process of choosing a model and trim level is taken care of online and the car subsequently picked up from the local dealer.

Servicing and maintenance is handled via a concierge service — a Volvo representative will collect and return the car at your convenience — and help is at hand 24/7 in case of an accident, emergency or breakdown.

Lincoln, who used this year's show to launch its new Nautilus mid-size SUV, can already claim to be the only US car marque that offers a concierge servicing and maintenance service — including the delivery of a courtesy car for the duration — as standard on all of its models.

 Lincoln concierge service.

However, it's not resting on its laurels and revealed that it is working with CLEAR to make its customers' lives even more stress-free.

CLEAR is a fast-track service for clearing airport security that uses biometric data to authenticate a person and then lets them jump the line and go straight through screening. The service is in place at 30 US airports, and starting in January, all Lincoln owners will get two six-month CLEAR memberships free (one for themselves, the other for their partner). What's more, Lincoln Black Label owners will get a year's subscription.

"Our clients tell us time is their ultimate luxury," said Lincoln president Kumar Galhotra. "So we've paired our exceptional vehicles with world-class services in collaboration with CLEAR to enable them to travel along their journey even more effortlessly and efficiently."

Lincoln also announced that it is going to extend its chauffeur service — Lincoln Personal Driver — to Dallas starting in 2018. The service, which provides Lincoln owners with access to a personal driver for their car who can also carry out errands, launched earlier this year in San Diego and Miami and has been a huge success.

And, like Volvo, the company also confirmed that it is developing a vehicle subscription service that it plans to test in California in early 2018.


Honda Civic Type R limited edition for Europe

                LONDON: With the Civic Type R Limited Edition, Honda is unleashing the most extreme version of its renowned high-performance car.

Built as the purest expression of Type R to date, the Limited Edition features new lightweight components, a stripped-back interior, enhanced driving dynamics and stand-out styling.

Developed with track performance as its core focus, the new Civic Type R Limited Edition has been designed and engineered to be the most dynamic front wheel drive hatchback available.

With new lightweight components and a stripped-back, driver-focused interior, this is the most extreme version of the iconic Civic Type R ever made.

Just 100 will be built for Europe, featuring lightweight flow-formed 20-inch forged BBS alloy wheels with Michelin Cup 2 tyres, which are designed for high-speed track driving but still deliver exceptional on-road performance.

 Civic Type R Limited Edition

Modified dampers optimise this new wheel and tyre combination and recalibration of the EPAS offers maximum control and feedback.

To reflect its extrovert nature, an exclusive new colour, ‘Sunlight Yellow’, is introduced for the Civic Type R Limited Edition, along with a dark chrome Civic badge on the back.

With the addition of contrasting gloss black paint on the roof, wing mirrors and intake vent on the bonnet, the bold colour scheme reflects Honda’s sporting heritage and ensures the Limited Edition stands out as a unique proposition in the performance hatchback segment.

The Civic Type R Limited Edition’s interior echoes Honda’s sporting bloodline: featuring the iconic red bucket seats and red Alcantara steering wheel complemented by the teardrop gear knob.

Each model features a plaque marking the build number of the car.

 Civic Type R Limited Edition

Continuing its track-focused nature, the infotainment and air conditioning systems are omitted to save weight.

Additional weight is saved by reducing sound-deadening materials in the roof, rear hatch panel, front bumper and dashboard.

The Limited Edition Type-R is 47kg lighter than a Type R in GT specification.

Unlike other brands’ track-focused performance hatchbacks, the Limited Edition retains its rear seats and the everyday usability for which the Civic is renowned.

The new Limited Edition model retains the Type R’s powerful 2.0-litre VTEC Turbo engine. Peak power output is 320PS at 6,500rpm and peak torque is 400Nm from 2,500rpm to 4,500rpm. 0-62mph is achieved in 5.7 seconds.

Sales of the 100 Type R Limited Edition cars for Europe start in summer 2020 and prices will be announced closer to the launch.

 Civic Type R Limited Edition Civic Type R Limited Edition Civic Type R Limited Edition


Tesla recalls about 30,000 Model X cars over air bag issue

                WASHINGTON: Tesla Inc recalled nearly 30,000 Model X cars in the United States over an issue that may cause the front passenger air bag to deploy incorrectly.

The air bag could deploy incorrectly in certain low-speed collision events where a young front seat passenger is unbelted and out of position, increasing the risk of injury, the company said in a filing with US regulators.

Tesla said it was not aware of any crashes, injuries or deaths related to the recall.

The problem will be addressed through an over-the-air software update, the company said in a letter filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Earlier this month, the world's most valuable automaker recalled over 40,000 Model S and Model X vehicles due to the risk of experiencing a loss of power steering assist when driving on rough roads or after hitting a pothole.


US Congress considers whether to require car child alerts

                WASHINGTON: Automakers would be required to install technology on new vehicles that alerts exiting parents to check for children in the back seat under legislation introduced in Congress in response to deaths of children left behind in hot cars.

Lawmakers say more than 800 children forgotten in vehicles have died from heatstroke in the United States over the last two decades.

The bill would require the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration to write new rules withIN two years mandating the introduction of “a distinct auditory and visual alert” to remind drivers to check the back seat. It would also require a study to assess the feasibility of retrofitting existing vehicles with the system.

The Alliance of Automobile Manufacturers, representing General Motors Co, Toyota Motor Corp, Volkswagen AG and other major automakers, said it will “carefully review any legislative proposals keeping in mind that fewer than 13% of new car buyers have a child six years old or younger.”

The group noted, “It takes about two decades for a technology to reach all the passenger vehicles on our roads. Greater public awareness saves live today.”

The proposal is sponsored by a number of lawmakers including Senate Commerce Committee Chairman Roger Wicker, a Republican, the committee’s top Democrat Maria Cantwell and Representative Jan Schakowsky, who chairs a subcommittee overseeing auto safety that held a hearing on the issue on Thursday.

Schakowsky said 48 children died of heat stroke in cars last year. “In the vast majority of those cases, the adult did not realise the child was inside the car. It’s not enough to educate parents about the risks,” she said.

She noted that many newer vehicles alert drivers if they leave their keys behind. “You should get a warning if you leave a child in the car,” she added.

GM in 2016 introduced a safety system to remind drivers to check for children in the rear seats. Triggered by back doors of the car being opened at the start of the trip, the system, in use on some vehicles today, alerts drivers with a unique honking sound to check the back seat at their destination.

The system does not detect the presence of a child in a car seat.

The Senate version was introduced late Wednesday, while the House version will be introduced in the coming weeks.


Volvo Car Malaysia launches first CKD EV — the XC40 Recharge Pure Electric

                PETALING JAYA: Volvo Car Malaysia has rolled out the country's first locally assembled electric vehicle (EV) in the form of the XC40 Recharge Pure Electric.

The sports utility vehicle is assembled at the Volvo plant in Shah Alam where the site will also be Volvo's hub for EV production for the Asean region.

The price of the all-electric XC40 will be announced on April 4 where the vehicle will be available for viewing at showrooms as well as ready for online purchase.

Customers can take delivery of their electric XC40 in late April.

Based on the conventional XC40, the electric XC40 comes with a distinctive closed-off front grille and does not have exhaust pipes.

Wheels are the 19-inch type.

The SUV's two electric motors, one each at the front and rear axles, deliver a combined output of 408hp with an all-wheel drive capability.

The electric XC40 can do the 0-100kph sprint in 4.9 seconds and has a top speed of 180kph.

Driving range is estimated at 418km on a single charge.

Charging for its high voltage lithium-ion battery is done through a CCS 2 connector.

READ MORE: Volvo owners can soon get a fast charge at US Starbucks

The battery can be charged up from 0 to 100% using 11kW AC in around seven hours, while a 150kW DC will power up from 10% to 80% in 33 minutes.

Inside, the electric XC40 features a 12.1-inch digital instrument panel with an Android-powered infotainment system with 9-inch touchscreen.

The infotainment system also allows users to access Google Maps, Google Assistant and Google Play Store.

The electric XC40 comes with a warranty of five years with unlimited mileage, while the battery has an eight-year/160,000km warranty.

At the launch in Petaling Jaya on Tuesday, Volvo Car Malaysia managing director Charles Frump said the company is aiming to be the leading luxury EV brand in Malaysia.

“Volvo Car Malaysia is ready to implement Volvo’s global plan for a fully electric line-up by 2030, starting with the launch of the XC40 Recharge Pure Electric.

“The XC40 Recharge Pure Electric is just one of our many steps to encourage consumers to adopt electric vehicles for a more sustainable future.

“By mid-decade, we’re aiming to reduce our overall CO2 lifecycle emissions per car by 40%. This means more than simply reducing tailpipe emissions by electrification is not enough. We must reduce CO2 emissions across our operations and supply chain,” he said.

Frump also said Volvo Car Malaysia would be introducing a new electric vehicle model annually beginning this year.

The company, he said, is also aiming for 75% of its vehicles to be sold by 2025 to be EVs.

To date, Volvo is the only automotive maker in Malaysia with a full range of locally assembled (CKD) plug-in hybrids.

For details, visit www.volvocars.com/my or follow Volvo Car Malaysia on Facebook http://bit.ly/VolvoMY-FB and Instagram at http://bit.ly/VolvoMY-IG.


Hankook Ventus Prime 3 K125 tyres now on offer

                KUALA LUMPUR: Hankook Tire has announced a special two-month tyre promotion that offers cash voucher rebates for customers when purchasing two or four pieces of its new Ventus Prime 3 K125 tyre.

The promotion, from July 1 to Aug 31, is applicable to 16 to 19-inch sizes of the tyre and gets accompanied with a voucher rebate of up to RM100 in the form of either Aeon’s shopping voucher, Lazada’s gift card or Grab’s e-promo code.

After purchasing the tyre during the promotion period, customers will need to log on to hankooktire.space or scan the QR code (which will be provided by the dealer or retailer where the purchase was made) to register their contact details.

Upon processing and approval, the selected voucher will be sent to the customer by SMS or postage, where applicable.

This promotion is being made available at all authorized Hankook Master dealers and retailers within Peninsula Malaysia and the cash voucher rebates are based on a first come first served basis while stocks last.

The South Korean tyremaker's flagship tyre was introduced in Malaysia towards the end of 2019 and is touted to be ideal for tropical weather conditions while providing a "perfect harmony between performance, comfort and safety".

The tyre comes with wide four channel grooves for better performance, safety and comfort in both dry and wet conditions.

When on dry roads, the tyre is said to provide an increased contact patch with the road and together with the enhanced stiffness in the tread's block, greater handling and braking performance are achieved.

During wet conditions, the tyre's silica compound comes into play to offer better steering response, improved traction and rolling resistance.

“Hankook Tire is very pleased to be offering our award-winning innovative tire, the Ventus Prime 3 K125 for all car owners in Malaysia who are seeking for a safer and distinguished driving experience," said Hankook Tire Malaysia managing director Tommy Kim.


BYD hikes pricing for Dolphin model despite slowing car demand

The Dolphin (right) and Seal were previewed in Malaysia at the launch of the Atto 3 on Dec 8.

HONG KONG: BYD Co., China’s biggest maker of green cars, has increased pricing for its popular Dolphin model and scrapped an entry-level version of the vehicle, just as automobile demand in the nation looks to be coming off the boil.

Shenzhen-based BYD said 2023 pricing for its Dolphin subcompact hatchback will start from 116,800 yuan (RM74,000) and stretch to 136,800 yuan (RM87,000).

Previously, the all-electric Dolphin started from about 96,800 yuan (RM62,000), making the newer version around 20% more expensive.

Some additional colours have been added and the new model offers a comfort mode on top of the original three driving modes of energy saving, snow and sports, according to local media reports.

Its range is slightly extended at 420km on a single charge versus 400km.

BYD’s decision to hike pricing is an interesting move in the face of slowing consumer purchases.

As recently as last week, the founder and CEO of rival EV maker Nio Inc. warned of a challenging first half as a cut in government EV subsidies and the broader economic slowdown erode local demand in the world’s largest new-energy vehicle market.

Deliveries of new-energy vehicles - pure electric and hybrid cars - to dealerships in China are expected to reach 6.5 million by the end of the year, and may touch 8.4 million in 2023, China’s Passenger Car Association said at a briefing earlier this month. Still, the year-on-year growth rate is slowing.

Like other automakers, BYD is also feeling the impact from China’s explosion in Covid cases.

A top executive said earlier this month that production is being curtailed to the tune of at least 2,000 cars a day with around 20% to 30% of BYD’s staff unable to work because they’re quarantining at home.


European car sales emerge from long slump

                PARIS: New car sales in Europe rose by nearly six percent in 2014, ending a long slump in activity that began in 2007, but analysts warn the sector has not yet turned the corner in the region.

The European Automobile Manufacturer’s Association (ACEA) said last week that 2014 new car sales grew by 5.7 percent, but noted current volumes of activity remain significantly lower than they were before the global financial crisis that drove the sector into six years of decline.

Europe’s continuing economic sluggishness means carmakers are unlikely to be able to repeat 2014’s performance, with analysts expecting sales growth to be limited to one to three percent this year.

A recovery to pre-crisis levels is most likely still years away.

Carlos Da Silva, an auto industry expert at IHS consultants, said that “2014 should be taken with relief and satisfaction.”

“However, by any means, this growth should not be misinterpreted: the foundations for a flourishing car market are yet to be built,” he added.

“Right now, the patient is still limping, not starting to run on both legs!“

The European car sector’s convalescent state is clear in comparing the 12.5 million units sold last year to the 16 million which rolled off dealer’s lots in 2007 before Wall Street unleashed a global financial crisis.

IHS said it does not expect the market to approach those levels until the end of the decade.

Moreover, activity across Europe varied greatly by market, lacking the generalised effervescence needed to drive enduring growth across the industry.

Among the largest markets, Spain led the sales growth at 18.1 percent, in part due to a new government incentive programme.

Britain followed with 9.3 percent growth, Italy at 4.2 percent, Germany 2.9 percent.

France managed only 0.3 percent growth.

“The situation in Europe is still quite contrasted, but it’s much better than we expected at the beginning of the year, when we forecast two to three percent,” noted Jean-Francois Belorgey, an analyst with consultants EY.

“(There is) a rather clear relationship between (national) economic health and market activity.”

Britain has been a bright spot in the region, with its economy expected to have grown 3 percent in 2014.

But with the Europe-wide economic outlook remaining mostly subdued through 2015, hopes that 2014 might mark a definitive rebound for carmakers are equally guarded.

“The European economy is still ailing, with weak growth and high unemployment,” said Belorgey. “It’s more a case of 2014 having been a nice surprise.”

The Volkswagen group remained Europe’s largest car producer in 2014, with sales rising by 7.2 percent to 3.2 million units.

It was followed by Peugeot maker PSA, which managed a 3.7 percent increase to 1.4 million vehicles.

But number three Renault posted a much larger 13.3 percent increase to 1.2 million units.

Ford moved into fourth place, with sales rising by 5.8 percent to 927,861 vehicles.

General Motors fell into fifth place as sales dropped by 4.3 percent to 905,444 vehicles, due largely to the withdrawal of its Chevrolet line from Europe.

Renault said this week that low-cost models are now three of its top-five selling vehicles worldwide.

Sales of its low-cost Dacia brand rose by 23.9 percent last year in the countries the ECEA tracks. Renault sells the vehicles under its own symbol in numerous countries around the world.

Belorgey noted that while much of Renault’s growth was driven by the surge of its Dacia brand, the wider segment is not uniformly booming - as witnessed by modest activity for rivals like Kia, which posted just a 4.4 percent advance.

By contrast, virtually all players in the premium luxury segment saw robust sales increases, including 30.1 percent for Lexus, 12.3 percent for Volvo, 4.8 percent for Audi, and a whopping 70.6 percent for Jeep.

“The automobile industry is one where the offer is a means of stimulating demand,” Belorgey said.

“Cars are products that make people want them, which is reassuring for manufacturers. Rolling out new attractive models is a way... to come out ahead.”


Chevrolet crosses over completely for Detroit

                DETROIT: Chevrolet will be taking the wraps off what it describes as an "all-new" Traverse SUV on Jan 9.

The car for growing families - it offers three rows of seats - will be the sixth new or heavily refreshed crossover or SUV added to Chevrolet's lineup over the past 18 months. The company says that when it debuts here, the 2018 Traverse will offer best-in-class leg room for the three passengers using the third row of seats, should match or better the competition in terms of cargo space, and will be focused on premium design and technology features.

"Nobody in the industry offers a broader, fresher lineup of SUVs and crossovers than Chevrolet," said Alan Batey, president of GM North America and brand chief of Global Chevrolet. "From the all-electric Bolt EV to America's longest-running nameplate, Suburban, we've got something for every customer and lifestyle."

Of the 15.85 million vehicles of all shapes and sizes sold in the US thus far in 2016, over one in three (37% or 6.03 million) were SUVs and crossovers. Factor in pickup sales too and that market share jumps to 53%.

But even without help from the likes of the Ford F-150 or Chevrolet Silverado, the crossover as a vehicle type is more popular among Americans than any other sort of car - 4.4 million sales versus 2.9 million for medium sized cars; 2.6 million for small cars; or 2.4 million for pickups.

This remarkable demand is why car companies, particularly US automakers, are going to remarkable lengths to ensure they have a lineup overflowing with crossovers and SUVs.

The latest-generation Chevrolet Tahoe may be the most reliable SUV in the full-size class (based on JD Power data) but it is only the 24th most popular SUV or crossover on sale in the US today. In fact, Chevrolet only has one model, the new Equinox, in the top 10.

The three most popular SUV/crossover models in the US at the moment are all Japanese - the Honda CRV, Toyota RAV4 and the Nissan Rogue. The Ford Escape (fourth place, 281,281 sales in 2016) is the most popular American SUV and the Ford Explorer, which kick-started the current trend, is in fifth place.

Still, sales of all SUVs and crossovers were up 10.5% this year, and the trend shows no signs of ending, so expect the North American International Auto Show to be full of new crossovers from US car builders when it opens its doors to the press on Jan 9.


Toyota, Intel, others to form auto big data consortium

                TOKYO: Toyota Motor Corp, chipmaker Intel Corp and other technology and auto companies are forming a consortium to create an ecosystem for big data used in connected cars, the Japanese automaker said on Thursday.

Swiss telecom equipment maker Ericsson, Japanese auto parts maker Denso Corp and telecoms firm NTT DoCoMo Inc are also part of the group, called the Automotive Edge Computing Consortium.

The consortium aims to use data to support emerging services such as intelligent driving, creating maps with real-time data and driving assistance based on cloud computing, Toyota said in a statement.

As cars are equipped with new capabilities, from staying in lanes to driving themselves, they are using and producing vast amounts of information, including where they drive.

Data volume between vehicles and the cloud is expected to reach 10 exabytes per month around 2025, about 10,000 times larger than at present, Toyota said.

Last week, Toyota and smaller rival Mazda Motor Corp said that they would work jointly on producing electric and connected cars.


NUMBER ZERO gives new meaning to magnetic car phone holder

                PHILADELPHIA: NUMBER ZERO is more than just a magnetic car phone holder.

It's being touted as the the world's first 5-in-1 magnetic car phone holder with "dynamic animation".

The second-generation phone holder offers a new way for drivers to go hands-free on the road while also serving as a scent diffuser, décor, an animated toy, and table-top phone stand.

The creator of the product, Zhiwen Wu, has begun crowdfunding the US$19.99 (RM85) gadget as an Indiegogo project.

"NUMBER ZERO's phone holder is unlike anything else on the market — with a magnet strong enough to hold 12 iPhones at once — and moving animations that make the holder a piece of automobile artwork when not in use," said Wu.

"It's easily the most functional and versatile automobile phone holder ever created."

Owners of a NUMBER ZERO phone holder can also create completely custom backgrounds for the device.

Wu has won numerous design awards after majoring in Industrial Design. His goal is to create fun, creative, and original products that are practically and thoughtfully designed. NUMBER ZERO has a US office in Delaware near here and an office in Shenzhen, China.


Jaguar Land Rover gives second life to I-PACE batteries

                LONDON: Jaguar Land Rover has announced a partnership with the energy specialist Promac to develop local, zero-emission energy storage units powered by used batteries from its I-Pace model.

The automaker wants to give a second life to batteries from its electric SUV.

The idea is to develop a zero-emission energy storage station, charged by solar panels, using the batteries extracted from its I-Pace vehicles.

This energy storage system is intended to support the local electricity grid when supply is limited or demand is too high.

It will include lithium-ion cells from the Jaguar I-Pace's batteries. Initially, these are being taken from the brand's prototypes and engineering test vehicles.

The unit provides zero-emission power when access to the electrical grid is saturated or unavailable, with a capacity of up to 125kWh.

This solution, which works in complete autonomy, is, for example, sufficient to supply a standard family home for a week, according to Jaguar Land Rover.

It is also evidently possible to hook up your electric car to the system to recharge the vehicle.

This partnership is the first in a series of projects to create new circular economy models for Jaguar Land Rover's batteries.

Recycling electric batteries will indeed represent a considerable challenge for car makers.

Renault, for example, has already launched several Refactory projects, to develop factories based entirely on circular economic activities, in which as much material as possible is recycled to ensure more sustainable mobility in the future.


VLF Automotive: A Force to be reckoned with at Auto Shanghai

                DETROIT: Boutique US supercar builder VLF Automotive is bringing a 338kph roadster based on the Dodge Viper to April's Shanghai motor show.

When Henrik Fisker isn't busy developing cars under his own Fisker Automotive brand, he's helping VLF Automotive build up a range of fascinatingly powerful luxury cars.

Co-founded by former GM Vice Chairman Bob Lutz, manufacturer Gilber Villarreal and racing driver Ben Keating, VLF's ultimate aim is to be an American alternative to boutique supercar makers such as Koenigsegg, Spyker or even Pagani. And that goal could well be in their grasp with the VLF Force 1 V10 Roadster. (The company's name is taken from the initials of Villarreal, Lutz and Fisker).

Following on from the launch of the hard-top Force 1 V10 coupé at the 2016 Detroit Auto Show, the new variant is again based on the Dodge Viper and will use the same normally aspirated V10. The car's Henrik Fisker-designed exterior has been sculpted from carbon fibre and the brakes are from Brembo. The wheels are wrapped in Pirelli P Zero tyres (just like on the world's greatest supercars) and the 745hp the engine is expected to develop goes exclusively to the rear wheels via a six-speed manual gearbox.

 The men behind the cars. They are (from left) Fisker, Lutz and Villareal.

All of which, the company claims, will result in a 0-100kph time of less than 3 seconds and a 338kph top speed.

The car is also expected to come with a price tag in the region of US$300,000 (RM1.33mil) when it officially goes on sale. And while that may seem very expensive for what some would argue is little more than a Dodge Viper with a new shell, Ben Keating's involvement in the project suggests that the car will offer performance more on par with a racing car than a muscle car. Keating made his name racing Dodge Vipers on the track.

What's more, starting with a donor or foundation car is the key to eliminating all of the quality and reliability issues that would otherwise stop a boutique car maker form challenging the establishment.

For example, the Hennessey Venom GT, which is just about to cease production and is officially the fastest car built in the US, uses a Lotus front end and Lotus doors to ensure fit and finish, that basic electrics work and that it meets US crash safety standards. Allowing the company to devote its time and resources to the things it does best, making cars that go extremely quickly.

By following the same principle, VLF could very quickly establish itself, too.

The 2017 Shanghai motor show opens to the public on April 21.

 A foretaste of what the roadster version would look like. This is the hard-top Force 1 V10 coupé.


Jenson Button puts his McLaren P1 up for sale

                LONDON: Even if you have the appropriate amount of funds available to you, it's not everyday you can just go out and buy a McLaren P1.

It's even less common to be able to buy one previously owned by a former Formula One driver, but at the moment you can. And that's because Jenson Button, the winner of the 2009 FIA Formula One World Championship, has now put his on the market for sale.

Button put his P1 up for sale on Monday and used Instagram to make the announcement. His post reads: "McLaren P1 up for sale so that someone else can enjoy her. It's a tough decision but living in America I don't really get the chance to drive this beauty, I did give her a final blast up to Silverstone for WEC last month though!"

Speaking to the UK's Autocar publication earlier this year, Button said he loved the P1 because of its "its slightly snarly on-the-limit behaviour." Even though just 375 examples of the P1 were built by McLaren between October 2013 and December 2015, this one is even more unique and is described by the selling dealer as a unique '1 of 1 example,' due to its 'Grauschwartz Grey' paint, interior color combination and road legal 'Track Mode 2' options.

The P1 made its global debut at the Paris Motor Show in 2012, and after going on sale in the UK in October of 2013, all 375 build slots were spoken for by November.

The car was considered the successor to the revolutionary F1 due to its use of hybrid power and technology derived straight from Formula One. And like the F1, the P1 is a mid-engine, rear wheel drive design that used a carbon fibre monocoque and roof structure safety cage concept called MonoCage, and accommodates up to three people with the driver in a central position.

Of course, the question everyone will want to know is how much it will cost to take the P1 off Jenson's hands.

Although this is very much a case of if you have to ask the price you probably can't afford it, a 2015 P1 sold in the United States earlier this year for US$1.7 million (RM7mil). If that hasn't put you off and you're probably happy to pay a little more than that for an example with this car's provenance. The car is being sold by Steve Hurn Cars, who are based in Suffolk in the UK.


Two-seat, open-top driving joy: What makes a roadster a roadster?

The latest MX-5.
BERLIN: When a road winds its way up a mountainside in tight bends and hairpin turns, many drivers take a deep breath and try their best to steady their nerves. But not roadster drivers - they are suddenly in their element, rejoicing not only in every sharp curve along the road, but also in the feeling of cool wind blowing in their hair.

Cars were initially designed purely for transporting passengers or goods, not to offer their owners enjoyment through driving.

But the earliest roadsters, like the first Ford Thunderbird, changed that: They offered far more driving pleasure than actual utility.

"With open roadsters, owners can enjoy the ride, but they also like to show off," says design professor Paolo Tumminelli from the Technical University of Cologne.

Unlike most convertibles, roadsters have only two seats and are minimally equipped. "A convertible is based on a comfortable coupe, with a folding roof that can be opened," says Tumminelli. In contrast, a roadster is an open sports car with a fabric roof.

Particularly in early models, roadsters were "sports cars that were driven open," explains Tumminelli. Their drivers were tough: Hats and lambskin jackets offered only cursory protection from rain or cold.

 The Z4.

Today's roadsters, however, offer the comfort of convertibles and hardly differ from them when it comes to features, with insulated folding roofs in many models protecting occupants from the elements. The only difference? Roadsters still only offer seating for two, as compared to convertibles, which have four or five seats.

"Many customers treat a roadster like the BMW Z4 as a reward, as a driving machine for pure pleasure," says Andreas Ederer, product manager for the car. "Roadster owners usually have multiples cars."

For these owners, it's really about driving. For them, the road is the goal rather than the destination. "No other car is as close to its surroundings – it's like a motorcycle," says Ederer.

Stefan Bratzel from the FHDW University of Applied Sciences in western Germany also sees the roadster's distinct driving behaviour as a special characteristic.

"Small, lightweight roadsters, with their low seating position, convey an especially sporty driving experience," says Bratzel.

On the whole, roadster sales are relatively low. "In this small segment, manufacturers have to carefully calculate whether there are enough customers and determine exactly how to position their vehicles," explains Bratzel.

For example, the Mazda MX-5 is considered an affordable roadster, while the BMW Z4 is designed for the premium segment.


VW Touareg R set for world premiere in Geneva

                WOLFSBURG: Volkswagen is set to add a range-topping new premium model to its flagship Touareg line – the Touareg R which will debut at the upcoming 90th International Geneva Motor Show in March.

The versatile model’s 462PS plug-in hybrid drive offers an innovative blend of superlative performance and electric efficiency.

When the battery is sufficiently charged, the new SUV always starts in the all-electric E-MODE for zero emissions. The battery capacity is designed so that the Touareg R can cover the average daily commute under electric power.

Like all Touareg models, the new R version comes with permanent all-wheel drive (4MOTION) as standard.

4MOTION and the powerful drive system (700Nm of torque) means the Touareg R has also been homologated for a maximum trailer weight of 3.5 tonnes.

The premium model can cope with this maximum trailer weight even in E-MODE. As the first plug-in hybrid SUV in the world, the Touareg can also be fitted with the trailer manoeuvring system Trailer Assist.

And yet another first: the Touareg will be available with Travel Assist for the first time. The premium model will be the first Volkswagen to boast assisted driving (automatic longitudinal and lateral guidance) up to a speed of 250kph.

The extremely well appointed Touareg R, which features the Black Style exterior design package along with 20- inch alloy wheels (Braga) and R-Line interior trim (including Vienna leather with crystal grey stitching), is set to enter the market in the second half of 2020.


More traffic ops planned

                BENTONG: Don’t say you have not been warned! There will be more speed traps and traffic operations on the road.

Transport Minister Datuk Seri Liow Tiong Lai said he has asked police, the Road Transport Department and the Road Safety Department to enhance enforcement in a move to reduce accidents and deaths on the road.

“The drastic increase in road accidents and fatalities this festive season is abnormal and worrying,” he said at the Hari Raya open house by Pahang Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Adnan Yaakob here yesterday.

Police have said that the average fatality rate during Ops Selamat had gone up to 22 a day compared to 13 last year.

Liow said they would beef up operations and campaigns to raise public awareness.

“There are still a few days to go before traffic returns to its usual volume. We are doing all we can to save lives.

“We need your co-operation. We alone cannot achieve the results effectively,” he said.

Liow also warned the motorists to be extra alert.

“Drive slowly especially now when there is a huge increase of vehicles on the road,” he added.

He, however, noted that most motorists are aware but lack good attitude.

Liow hoped the new driving licence curriculum, which emphasises on safe and responsible driving, could help change drivers’ attitude and reduce accidents and fatalities.

Police statistics showed that there had been 12,383 accidents since Ops Selamat was launched on July 10.

Federal traffic chief Senior Asst Comm Datuk Mohd Fuad Abdul Latiff said police issued 123,190 summonses since the start of the operations.

There had been 203 fatalities in 76 accidents, most of them on federal roads, he said.

Meanwhile, three passengers were injured after an express bus hit a divider and landed in a ditch along the North-South Expressway near Rawang at 6.30am yesterday.

SAC Mohd Fuad said the accident occurred at KM436 of the highway, adding that it was raining heavily then.


Detailing: Flame on for high shine

 SierraGlow's Blue Flame product from Japan being applied on the Perodua Alza.

How would you like your car done, sir?” asked SierraGlow operations director KF Choong.

For a split-second, “medium-rare, thanks!” was almost my reply, because it’s all about a unique application that’s meant to detail your ride and not about steak tartar, fillet mignons or a juicy rib eye.

Known as SierraGlow’s Blue Flame, the application is by itself a new way to preserve the longevity of your vehicle’s paintwork.

“It’s all about protecting the original paint of your car with the use of our non-toxic inorganic substances that are not susceptible to oxidation,” said Choong.

The company has been detailing cars since 2007 and Choong says they were the first to utilise silica-based products from Japan.

The most unique thing about the Blue Flame application, lies in the way it is applied – think secondary school days and science classes with a blue-flamed Bunsen burner.

This is the type of flame that’s going to “brush” the surface of the vehicle – which doesn’t just include the metal panels, but also the headlights and wheels (tyres not included).

The assurance came when Choong showed us that the heat wasn’t that intense when he brushed the flames on this hand.

“The flame is hot, but it’s not hot enough to melt any part of the vehicle instantly,” he assured.

He added that there’s nothing special about the flame, other than it being blue and its contents – which is used to bond with the surface and act as a primer for the glass coating to adhere to.

 Choong detailing the Perodua Alza.

For those unfamiliar with detailing, let’s equate this to a full-body spa session that will practically take up the whole day, so do make sure there’s nothing important that needs to be done.

Our vehicular test subject was a four-year-old Perodua Alza with a solid white paint job that’s been plagued by stubborn dark greyish cloudy coating.

Why the coating?

The car in mention belongs to our very own Star photographer, Raymond Ooi, who shyly acknowledged that it had been “a while” since its last wash – a year or so was his estimate.

After picking up our jaws off the ground, Choong outlined the process that was to come – shampoo, cabin steam cleaning, a claybar session, a polishing compound, compound removal, final wash, Blue Flame application and lastly the Nano-glass coating.

After a quick “shampoo”, the Alza’s “true colours” were exposed – heavily oxidised and rough.

Instinctively, the thought of a good wax application would seem ideal to bring that paint back up from the depths of its dirty complexion.

“Actually, waxing can cause more damage than you’d imagine. It’s petroleum-based which can retain a lot of heat to make that top layer more porous and all that’s going to make the dirt sink in deeper,” explained Choong.

He indicated that waxes trap dirt quite easily and wiping it from the paint’s surface simply causes micro-scratches (swirls) to appear – like very fine spider-webs, when seen under bright conditions.

 A polisher compound working its way into the embedded dirt.

Heavily oxidised, it seemed that the dirt has managed to penetrate deeply – imagine not taking a shower for more than a year, causing a layer of dark tint to form onto the body with large areas of dark blotchy patches.

The next step in detailing the Alza was a claybar session, which is meant to pick up stubborn left over stains and minute particles, but in the case it had to be forgone due to the severe degradation of the paintwork’s top layer.

What was required was a good “cleansing” compound to be applied that would help “exfoliate” the dirt off the paint.

The compound used on the surface of the paintwork is a tad abrasive, which is required for the “exfoliation” process to help expose the “healthier” paintwork and remove/reduce the fine swirl marks left from previous washes or waxing sessions.

Again, due to the severity of the paintwork, this process had to be repeated a few more times before the showroom colour (or close to it) could be seen.

A quick run through the body work with a different compound to remove the “cleanser” from the Alza’s surface and it was off for a final and thorough steam wash before the Blue Flame was applied.

As previously mentioned, not only does it act like a primer on top of the original lacquer (or what’s left of it), it also helps to even out the top layer of paint before the Nano Glass coat gets applied.

In total, what was supposed to take an average of five hours to complete the Blue Flame package turned into a nine-hour ordeal, but it has to be mentioned that it was well worth the wait to see how an extremely neglected four-year-old car was returned to its prime.

Truthfully, the Alza’s solid white paint cannot be said to be absolutely perfect, but it can be said to be at least 95% close to showroom perfection.

 Almost like showroom condition after the Blue Flame treatment.

Cost wise, the Blue Flame package starts from RM1,300 onwards – this will depend on the size and condition of the vehicle to begin with and includes a five-year warranty that guarantees the original paint from deterioration due to environmental or ultra-violet damage.

If other services are required, SierraGlow does provide a grooming package for a nominal fee to help return the car back to shine, especially after the Blue Flame application, which helps to remove minor scratches sustained from other washes.

SierraGlow also includes fabric/leather interior steam cleaning services as well.

For more information, log on to www.sierraglow.com or call +603-8081 3732.


Watch out for bump-and-rob criminals, motorists told

                PETALING JAYA: Police here are calling for motorists to be vigilant after a string of bump-and-rob cases that they believe were perpetrated by the same suspects.

Authorities said the first two cases occurred on Tuesday when two men crashed into and robbed two people of their cars in the city area.

“The following day, a teacher from SMK Bandar Utama 2 was robbed of her vehicle along Persiaran Bandar Utama. We believe the same people were behind these crimes because the suspects used a car they had stolen from one of the earlier victims to rob the teacher,” said OCPD Asst Comm Azmi Abu Kassim.

He said the suspects struck at night and in the early morning, and were not just targeting women.

“The other two cases involved a middle-aged bank executive and a senior citizen, both male. They are just looking for lone targets driving popular models,” he said.

“They will bump into the back of their target’s vehicle and then attack when the victim exits to speak with them. Then they will drive off with the car, leaving the victim behind.”

ACP Azmi advised the public to drive to the nearest police station should they encounter a similar situation, saying that motorists were “under no obligation to exit their cars to negotiate” with the driver who bumped their vehicle.


China new energy vehicle sales to grow over 40%/yr in next 5 yrs, says industry body

                SHANGHAI: China's new energy vehicle (NEV) sales are expected to grow more than 40% each year in the next five years, a senior official at the China Association of Automobile Manufacturers (CAAM) said today.

Fu Bingfeng, executive vice chairman of CAAM, made the remarks at a conference held by the industry body here.

Fu's presentation showed that CAAM forecasts sales of NEVs, including battery electric, plug-in hybrid and hydrogen fuel cell vehicles, to hit 1.9 million units this year and 2.7 million vehicles in 2022.

NEV makers, such as Tesla Inc, Nio Inc, Xpeng Inc and BYD, are expanding manufacturing capacity in China, encouraged by the government's promotion of greener vehicles to cut pollution. read more

China could extend tax exemptions on NEV purchases beyond 2022 to support development of the sector, Wan Gang, a high-ranking government industrial policy adviser who is often referred to in state media as China's "father of EV", said at the same CAAM conference.

Shares in China's NEV-related companies climbed after the forecast.

Top battery maker CATL gained 3.7%. Hunan Zhongke Electric Co Ltd, Ningbo Rongbay New Energy Technology Co Ltd, Guangzhou Tinci Materials Technology Co Ltd and BYD climbed between 2.9% and 10%.


Four Nissan models now priced higher in Malaysia

                KUALA LUMPUR: The prices for certain Nissan car models have increased by 2.8% to 6.7%, from April 1, 2016.

Edaran Tan Chong Motor Sdn Bhd (ETCM), the sole distributor of Nissan in Malaysia, said the price hike was mainly due to the weakened ringgit, which has hampered operational costs.

In a statement, the company said it was among the last auto companies to increase prices.

"Over the past months despite severe pressure from a weakened ringgit, we have has implemented necessary measures to reduce the impact," said ETCM executive director Datuk Ang Bon Beng.

“We have always strive to offer affordable pricing," he added.

The price hikes apply to four locally assembled Nissan cars, namely the Almera (RM3,734 to RM4,610 depending on variant), Grand Livina (RM3,125 to RM6,225), X-Gear (RM4,073) and Teana (RM3,715 to RM4,800).

Prices for Serena S-Hybrid, X-Trail, NP300 Navara and NV200 are unchanged.


5 hybrid trucks added to Allianz Road Rangers fleet

                KUALA LUMPUR: Allianz General Insurance Company (Malaysia)  Berhad has added five hybrid trucks to its Allianz Road Rangers fleet, bring the fleet total to 250 tow trucks.

Allianz Road Rangers currently comprises various tow trucks including spectacle lifts, flatbed carriers, super carriers, king dollies, and basement trucks.

The hybrid trucks come with combined features of a flatbed carrier and a spectacle lift that can tow two accident vehicles simultaneously.

A flatbed carrier features a long hydraulic flatbed that inclines and allows vehicles to be driven or pulled onto the bed for towing, while a spectacle lift or wheel lift tow truck has a metal yoke that hooks up the drive wheels of the vehicle towed.

Besides that, the hybrid trucks also carry mini and normal-sized wheel dollies.

Furthermore, hybrid trucks are also suited to tow modified or lowered vehicles or vehicles (particularly of continental-make) that suffer from broken air suspension systems, thus resulting in a lowered suspension before loading onto the carrier platform.

Allianz General’s chief of claims Damian Williams said the addition of the remote-operated hybrid trucks now completes the Allianz Road Rangers fleet.

“Since its launch in 2017, the Allianz Road Ranger accident assistance service has been key for our customers. In looking out for our customers, we continue to enhance the service or our fleet to ensure our service remains first-rate," said Williams.

"With the addition of the innovative hybrid trucks, we can serve our customers better, more so should two vehicles insured under Allianz General are involved in an accident.”

In 2021, Allianz General had 1.13 million Motor Comprehensive customers, with 64,000 customers benefiting from the complimentary Allianz Road Rangers service.

“With the hybrid trucks, our Allianz Road Rangers technicians are also better equipped to handle complicated towing jobs. So, if a flatbed is required and dispatched to the accident scene, but the parking brake is stuck, the technician can easily deploy wheel dollies and tow the vehicle using the yoke, all with no further delay in service,” said Williams.

In the event of an accident, Allianz General’s Motor Comprehensive customers should call 1-800-22-5542. To learn more about the Allianz Road Rangers service, visit allianz.com.my/road-rangers.


2015 Tokyo Motor Show: A mix of the outlandish and ingenious

 Suzuki Ignis.

TOKYO: Japan's biggest single automotive showcase may only come around just once every two years but no other international motor show promises the same combination of the outlandish and outright ingenious.

This year's Tokyo event, which opens its doors to the general public on October 30 (after press and preview days Oct 28 and 29), will play host to no fewer than 42 vehicular world debuts.

Among them will be the Suzuki Ignis, an ultra-compact, ultra-efficient crossover and the Honda FCV, the company's first hydrogen fuel cell car for the masses.

However, it's the sheer breadth of concept cars currently being teased by a host of Japanese brands that are generating the most excitement.

 Toyota president Akio Toyoda standing between the company's Mirai fuel-cell powered vehicle (FCV), left, and a first generation Prius hybrid vehicle after the 60th Anniversary Tokyo Motor Show Parade held ahead of the 44th Tokyo Motor Show 2015 in Tokyo on Oct 24. - BloombergA sporting chance of production
Mazda is bringing a sports coupe concept to this year's show and there's a good chance the car could lead to a new RX8 production vehicle, complete with a rotary engine. All that Mazda will say is that the design references the company's great sports cars of the past while also looking to the future.

Toyota is being far less coy about its S-FR concept. A lightweight 2+2 coupe with rear-wheel drive and potentially excellent handling, it is expected to challenge the Mazda Miata MX5 in terms of price and performance.

Yamaha, a company famed for two-wheelers is also looking to get in on the lightweight sportscar action with the unveiling of a mid-engine concept designed by Gordon Murray. Next to nothing is known about the car, but if the man responsible for the McLaren F1 is involved, expect something impressive.

 Lexus teasing what could be an all-wheel drive hydrogen-fuelled LS, which may use an uprated Toyota Mirai powertrain.The lap of luxury
This year's show coincides with Lexus's 25th anniversary and the premium marque is marking the occasion with a show car that represents "progressive luxury". It will also give the clearest sign of what the next generation LS - the company's flagship executive sedan - will be offering in order to compete with the Mercedes S Class and BMW 7 Series.

Suzuki will be showing something called the Air Triser, which is an exercise in packaging as well as comfort, and brings an executive lounge feeling to the interior ofLexus's anniversary, innovations in autonomy what to watch for at the 2016 Tokyo motor show

Complete autonomy
One of the most intriguing cars at this year's show will be Nissan's Teatro for Dayz concept which attempts to understand what the next generation of road users will want from a car. A complete blank canvas, it jettisons all current design motifs so that the owner can instead project his or her own personality on it, inside and out.

The Mitsubishi eX Concept is much more conventional by comparison but will showcase the company's latest innovations in battery technology and will debut an augmented reality windshield that brings autonomous and connected car features to drivers without the associated distractions.


Hyundai's Tiger concept vehicle drives — and walks as well

                SEOUL: It's a "Tiger" of a vehicle and is undaunted by any challenging terrain.

This is the idea behind Hyundai's second Ultimate Mobility Vehicle (UMV) and the first designed to be unmanned.

The transforming intelligent ground excursion robot (Tiger in short)  is designed to carry various types of payload while travelling over challenging terrain.

Tiger  is being developed by Hyundai’s New Horizons Studio, based in Mountain View, California.

The studio was set up in late 2020 to develop UMVs drawing on research and innovation leadership from Silicon Valley and other innovation hubs. Engineering design software company Autodesk and external concept design studio Sundberg-Ferar were also involved in the Tiger project.

The first version of Tiger is X-1 (the X stands for experimental) and brings together a wide-range of technological and design expertise.

The teams have been working together to create a lightweight but incredibly strong structure, with the legs and certain chassis elements created using carbon fibre composite additive printing.

“Vehicles like Tiger, and the technologies underpinning it, give us an opportunity to push our imaginations,” said Dr John Suh, Head of New Horizons Studio.

“We are constantly looking at ways to rethink vehicle design and development and re-define the future of transportation and mobility.”

Tiger’s exceptional capabilities are designed to function as a mobile scientific exploration platform in extreme, remote locations.

Based on a modular platform architecture, its features include a sophisticated leg and wheel locomotion system, 360-degree directional control, and a range of sensors for remote observation. It is also intended to connect to unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), which can fully charge and deliver Tiger to inaccessible locations.

A large load bay housed within its body means Tiger can carry goods for delivery, or be deployed to deliver aid packages in emergency situations.

Leg-wheel articulation enables Tiger to tackle a range of extreme situations while keeping payloads more level than a typical ground vehicle.

With its legs retracted, Tiger drives like an all-wheel drive vehicle and is in its most efficient mode because it moves by rolling traction. But when the vehicle gets stuck or needs to travel over terrain that is difficult or impassable for wheels alone, it uses its walking ability to get unstuck or more easily travel over that terrain.

This was a feature previously seen in Elevate, Hyundai Motor Group’s first-ever UMV concept with moveable legs, which debuted at the 2019 Consumer Electronic Show (CES).

Like Elevate, Hyundai's other transforming four leg-wheel ground vehicle, Tiger shares similar characteristics such as its legs and wheels.

The difference between Elevate and Tiger is that, while the former can carry passengers, the latter is uncrewed.

Both Tiger and Elevate blend robotic and wheeled locomotion technologies, allowing them to traverse terrain beyond the limitations of even the most capable off-road vehicle.


From Nov 1, compulsory Socso contributions for cabbies and e-hailing drivers, says Kula

                IPOH: Beginning Nov 1, it is compulsory for taxi and e-hailing drivers to contribute towards the Social Security Organisation (Socso), says Human Resources Minister M. Kulasegaran.

He said only 5,197 out of 100,000 of these drivers are currently covered by Socso.

Asked on action to be taken against drivers who failed to register with Socso, Kulasegaran said there was a possibility that their licences would not be renewed.

He, however, said that the mechanism was still being fine-tuned with the Transport Ministry.

"Probably these drivers will have to show proof that contribution is being made to Socso, before their licences, or registration as taxis or e-hailing drivers are renewed.

"This is the process we are looking at, but it is yet to be finalised.

"We want to assist these drivers, and not make things difficult for them," he added.

The contribution is between RM157.20 and RM592.80 per year, and the coverage depends on the scale the drivers choose.


Elon Musk now world's wealthiest person, say US media

Musk. — AFP
SAN FRANCISCO: Elon Musk, the outspoken and envelope-pushing chief executive of Tesla, overtook Amazon boss Jeff Bezos to become the world's wealthiest person, US media reported Thursday.

Musk is a major shareholder of the electric car company and has benefited from Tesla's surging share price over the last year. CNBC estimated Musk's wealth at US$185 billion.

The distinction is the latest superlative for the South African-born Musk, who leads the aerospace venture SpaceX in addition to Tesla, which has become a pacesetter for the car industry as conventional automakers try to catch up to Tesla's lead in electric autos.

Tesla had a strong 2020 as it ramped up auto production, broke ground on new factories and reported a series of profitable quarters that enabled shares to rise more than 700 percent during the year as it was added to the prestigious S&P 500 index.

Musk has hit a stride after stumbling in 2018, when US securities regulators required the Tesla chief to step down as chairman and pay US$20 million to settle charges he defrauded investors with false claims on Twitter in August about a possible bid to take the company private, which was quickly aborted.

Shares of Tesla Inc jumped as much as 5.6% on Friday, pushing the electric-car maker’s market capitalisation to over US$800 billion for the first time ever and inching closer to the trillion dollar club.


Which VW suits you? It's all in the stars

                WOLFSBURG: According to Volkswagen, a car is not just a means of transportation – it also offers clues to your personality, lifestyle and character traits.

With so many vehicles bearing the "VW" logo, it can be hard to find the perfect match, so they've looked to the...stars to help you out.

To explore these cosmic connections from a different angle, the German carmaker has developed a guide that pairs the attributes associated with your zodiac sign to current and classic Volkswagen models.

Aquarius: Lively, sociable and original, you prefer the unconventional to the traditional. The Beetle, the quintessential Age of Aquarius car, is fun, unique and one-of-a-kind – just like you.

Pisces: Intuitive, imaginative, creative and compassionate, you are escapist by nature. An iconic Microbus will give you the freedom to follow your whimsies and hit the road (and knowing your selfless ways, VW is sure you’ll have plenty of passengers).

Known for your patience and empathy, you will feel good knowing that the microbus is anticipated to be reincarnated as an electric model – the ID. BUZZ – in 2022.

Aries: Adventurous, energetic and a bit of a trendsetter, you were the first of your friends to embrace EVs. The all-electric e-Golf is agile, fun to drive and designed to keep up with your active and energetic personality.

Your sympathetic and courageous side will also feel good knowing your car is helping lower greenhouse emissions.

Taurus: Reliable, practical and dependable, you want a car that’s just as solid and steady as you are, and the Tiguan checks all the boxes.

The mid-size, sporty SUV offers spaciousness combined with VW’s hallmark driving dynamics and careful attention to detail (which, as a fellow meticulous planner, you can appreciate).

Plus, its ergonomically-designed seats, heated side mirrors and available panoramic sunroof all appeal to your self-indulgent side.

Cancer: Family-oriented and a homebody by nature, you crave a steady and spacious shell to get you from point A to point B - the redesigned 2020 Passat fits the bill.

Known for your unwavering attention to detail, you will appreciate the midsize sedan’s intricate balance of high quality, value and modern comforts.

Leo: Vivacious, theatrical and passionate, you are a charismatic, natural-born leader who loves basking in the limelight.

Behind the wheel of the sporty, statement-making Jetta GLI, you are bound to make a splash.

You have a palpable, high-energy and an ambition that can’t be tamed and this bold, eye-catching sedan is the perfect ride to get you to new heights.

Virgo: Reliable, meticulous and modest, you desire a car that is practical, dependable and yet ever-so-slightly off the beaten track.

Look no further than the Jetta because this sassy sedan offers all the features you require – easy handling, plenty of torque and a comprehensive suite of driver assistance technology – plus fun interior styling and a concert-quality stereo system.

Libra: Clever, passionate and talented, Libras are going places and plan to get there in style.

The Arteon, outfitted with frameless side windows and a wraparound grille, is the perfect blend of form and function – and a natural fit for the sign that places value on balance, order and equality.

Scorpio: Determined, powerful, passionate and endlessly curious, you need a sleek and sporty SUV to keep up with your bold and ambitious plans.

Just like Scorpio, the Atlas Cross Sport emulates confidence and encourages spontaneity with its versatile cargo space that allows for every day (and not-so-everyday) activities.

Sagittarius: Free-spirited, fun and focused, you seek out adventure and love a good road trip with friends. Enter the Atlas.

A perfect complement to your work hard, play hard mentality, the seven-seater offers ample seating for friends and family to join you on your adventures.

Capricorn: Practical, prudent and ambitious, you’re not going to blow your savings on some flashy status symbol.

Your business-minded and want something that’s sturdy and reliable but has flair and the beloved Golf GTI is the perfect workhorse, offering great handling, performance and comfort all for a reasonable price.

Gemini: Adaptable, adventurous, and versatile, you are the quintessential, and much beloved, Golf R: quick, fun and never dull.

The hot hatchback also shares Gemini’s dual personality – it’s a practical, everyday commuter with a sports-car soul.


Lotus defies Brexit with production jump under Geely

Lotus design director Russell Carr explaining design details of the Evija electric hypercar.
LONDON: Lotus Cars is preparing for an expansion under Asian owner Geely Automobile Holdings Ltd. that could see the iconic British automaker open a second British factory and target new markets by building higher-volume models in China.

Lotus plans to triple output at its base in Hethel, eastern England, to slightly more than 5,000 cars a year and could reach 10,000 if it adopts a double-shift work pattern, chief executive officer Phil Popham said in an interview. Further increases might require a new plant elsewhere in the country, he said, adding that he’s unconcerned about the impact of Britain leaving the European Union.

Popham described Lotus as a "70-year-old startup” after the launch of its first new car in 10 years. The £1.7 million (RM8.7mil) all-electric Evija will be followed by a solely combustion-engined model to be revealed in 2020, after which all subsequent cars will have electric variants, possibly skipping a hybrid option which the CEO said can add too much weight for a sports design.

Lotus’s 10-year growth plan includes an expansion into new segments, Popham said after unveiling the Evija at an event here where it displayed past models including the 1960s-vintage Elan and the wedge-shaped Esprit, famously driven underwater by film spy James Bond. That could include anything from a sport-utility vehicle through a crossover model to a sedan. The company made 1,632 cars in 2018 and expects to top 1,700 this year.

Geely chief technical officer Feng Qingfeng, also CEO of Group Lotus following a takeover by the Zhejiang-based automaker in 2017, told journalists that while Lotus’s core sports lineup would continue to be built in Britain, higher-volume models could be made in China.

"The manufacturing location depends on the local advantage,” he said. "The UK is good at making hand-made cars, so sports and hypercars. In China, we may have more advantage in infrastructure for mass-production cars.”

Popham said there’s scope for Lotus to work with other Geely companies, which include Sweden’s Volvo Cars and Malaysia's Proton, the UK brand’s former owner, though there’s no question of re-badging other platforms with the name, and neither would the same model be made in multiple locations.

READ MORE: Evija: Lotus showcases first pure electric sports car

Speaking on Bloomberg TV, the CEO said Lotus has secured the first few orders for the Evija in recent weeks and expects to sell the "halo” model, which will have a production run of just 130 cars, to buyers from around the world.

Despite the Evija’s hypercar credentials, which will see it vie with the Pininfarina SpA Battista and Rimac Automobili’s Concept One, as well as top-end conventional models from the likes of Ferrari NV and Lamborghini, Popham said future cars will remain within Lotus’s established £50,000 to £150,000 (RM256,000 to RM766,000) price bracket, though there’s some scope for moving upscale.

Even with the advance of automation, Lotus sees a long-term market in supplying cars "that people can have fun in,” the CEO said. New technologies will be used to assist the driver in getting the most out of the car, while intervening if they "overstep the mark,” he said.

Feng ruled out an early return to Formula 1 racing, where Lotus was once a dominant force, while saying he expects the company to do more in motor sport generally.

 Popham presenting the Evija.

UK Business Secretary Greg Clark attended the Evija launch, and Popham said Lotus will benefit from government initiatives to encourage electric cars, though hasn’t received loan guarantees like those recently granted to Jaguar Land Rover after it announced a new range of electric cars.

Lotus has no major concerns about Brexit, Popham said, adding that a UK split from the European Union on Oct 31 now seems likely given commitments from the candidates to succeed Theresa May as prime minister. The company has stockpiled parts in case of a no-deal exit, but the CEO said any impact would be limited and predicted that new trade accords would be rapidly concluded.

"We’re a nation that’s historically one of the biggest traders in the global market, always have been, always will be, so it’s matter of time before a new deal is done with Europe and other trading partners around the world,” he said.


Tesla mulls exporting China-made EVs to United States, say sources

China-made Model 3s rolling off the Tesla plant in Shanghai in this file pic. — Reuters

SHANGHAI: Tesla is considering exporting made-in-China electric cars to the United States, two people with knowledge of the planning told Reuters, a reversal that would reflect the automaker's deepening cost advantage at its Shanghai plant and slower demand from Chinese consumers.

Tesla has been studying whether parts made by its China-based suppliers are compliant with local regulations in North America, and if they are, could ship China-made Model Y and Model 3 cars for sale there as soon as next year, said the people, who declined to be named as the matter is private.

That could also open a channel for exports to Canada, one of the people said.

Tesla did not immediately respond to a request for comment, but Musk in a Twitter post after the story's release replied "False" without elaborating.

Tesla's Shanghai Gigafactory has the capacity to produce 1.1 million electric vehicles per year after an upgrade earlier this year, making it Tesla's most productive manufacturing hub.

The Shanghai plant makes Model 3 sedans and Model Y crossovers to sell in China and for export to markets including Europe, Australia and South East Asia.

Until recently, Tesla had been selling or shipping for export every vehicle it could produce in Shanghai, but inventory levels rose by their largest margin ever in October, according to data from brokerage CMBI.

In addition, factors including a cheaper yuan against the U.S. dollar, lower raw material prices in China and the rise in Tesla and new-car prices in the United States have combined to make exports from China to the United States potentially cost competitive, the people with knowledge of the plans said.

The plan, if enacted, could create new complexity for US buyers.

Under the terms of a new electric-vehicle subsidy and production-incentive plan signed into law by US President Joe Biden, the incentive available for an individual vehicle could vary depending on whether it was imported.

It could also be politically contentious. Tesla has been widely seen as one of major beneficiaries of the Biden administration's Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), which offers rebates of up to US$7,500 on EV purchases as part of a law intended to push automakers to reduce their reliance on China.

Tesla chief financial officer Zachary Kirkhorn told investors last month that the automaker was "very well-positioned to capture a significant share" of the incentives offered under the IRA for EVs and batteries for energy storage.

Until now, Tesla's strategy has been to build the cars it sells in North America at its plants in Fremont, California, and Austin, Texas.

The California plant, Tesla's first, produces the Model S, the Model 3 sedans and the Model X and Model Y crossovers. The Texas plant, which opened earlier this year, makes the Model Y and will produce Tesla's upcoming Cybertruck.

Tesla is also ramping up production at a plant it opened in Berlin earlier this year. Output from the Berlin plant will reduce the need for some exports from China, one of the sources said.

At the same time, the price gap between Tesla cars sold in China and the United States has been widening, reflecting both higher US prices and new discounts in China.

In China, where CMBI analysts have warned of a coming "price war," Tesla slashed the starter prices for Model 3 and Model Y in China by as much as 9% last month.

On Monday, it offered an additional rebate for buyers who take delivery this month and buy insurance from one of Tesla's partners.

Tesla sells the Model Y for the equivalent of US$49,344 in China, compared to the US price of US$65,990. China-made cars face a 27.5% US tariff, while light-duty trucks face a 25% tariff.

China, the world's largest auto market, imposes a 15% tariff on imported vehicles.

In 2018, before Tesla's Shanghai plant was operating, Chief Executive Elon Musk had asked then-President Donald Trump to raise tariffs on cars imported to the United States from China in order to achieve "a fair outcome" where both sides had equivalent and "equally moderate" tariffs.

Tesla would not be the first US automaker to ship made-in-China vehicles to the United States. General Motors has imported the Buick Envision SUV and unsuccessfully petitioned for an exemption to 25% US tariffs imposed by the Trump administration.


BMW starts making refreshed 7 Series

                MUNICH: BMW said it has begun production of the new 7 Series at its Dingolfing plant, around 100km north-east of here.

BMW's top model has been thoroughly revised and given greater presence since the sixth generation model was launched three-and-a-half years ago.

The 7 Series will continue to be available in two body variants, including the Long Wheelbase version with its 14-cm-longer wheelbase. Eighty per cent of customers opt for this version, which offers even more space in the rear.

The start of production of the facelifted 7 Series is also seeing a number of innovations happening on the factory floor.

Car and process innovations

Firstly, a plug-in hybrid will be available with a six-cylinder engine for the first time in the form of the 745e /745Le. The 286hp six-cylinder inline engine is combined with a 113hp electric motor for a total system output of 394hp.

Combined fuel consumption of the 745e /745Le are: 2.3 – 2.1 l/100 km / 2.3 – 2.2 l/100 km; combined power consumption: 15.6 – 15.1 kWh/100 km / 15.7 – 15.6 kWh/100 km; and combined CO2 emissions from fuel: 2 – 48 g/km / 53 – 50 g/km.

Furthermore, the refreshed 7 Series is the first BMW car to get a fourth-generation battery. The latest battery-cell technology gives the luxury sedan an all-electric driving range of up to 58km, ensures local emission-free driving and is virtually silent. The battery installed in the 745e / 745Le is made in Dingolfing, which serves as the hub supplying BMW plants worldwide with batteries and electric motors for production of electrified vehicles.

Another innovation that marks the facelifted 7 Series production is the increased digitalisation of workflow.

For assembly of less-ordered special equipment, like the rear centre console, the vibrating alarm of a smartwatch alerts employees on the corresponding section of the line that an “exotic” is coming up and gives them instructions for additional work steps.

Data glasses are also used in training new staff. When learning new work steps, virtual assistance is projected into the employee’s field of vision. This enables rapid, sustainable learning in pre-assembly of complex components like the rear light. This augmented-reality application is used at assembly training centres and constantly refined in working methods in co-operation between production planning and IT.

Digitalisation is also making further inroads in supplying assembly lines with components. The latest generation of autonomous tugger trains is currently being piloted on longer routes between the warehouse and assembly hall. The capabilities of driverless tugger trains go beyond automation of earlier solutions. New and smarter logistics helpers will enable dynamic route guidance according to delivery priority, with active obstacle avoidance.

Since production of the first 7 Series began in 1977, more than 1.9 million BMW 7 Series cars have been built in Dingolfing. Last year, over 90 percent of all units produced were exported abroad. The Chinese market plays an especially important role for the model: In 2018, 44 percent of global sales were delivered to customers in China.

Sharing design language

The redesigned front and rear ends give the 7 Series a more expressive look. At the front, the enlarged kidney grille contrasts with the slim headlights. It used the same design language as the 8 Series and the X7.

The rear-end design also brings fresh accents: The flatter three-dimensional rear lights are fully LEDs. Beneath the chrome bar between the two rear lights, there is now a slim six-millimetre light strip, which creates a discreetly illuminated accent when daytime running lights are switched on and produces a distinctive night-time design in the dark. There are also special rear lighting effects when the car is locked and unlocked.

The interior is now also available with extended quilting around the centre console and in the armrests integrated in the door trim. New fine-wood interior trim is also available. Improved acoustic shielding in the rear wheel arches reduces the level of tiye noise noticeable in the interior. To further enhance acoustic comfort, the side windows now also come with increased material thickness.


Suzuki unveils anniversary edition GSX-R

                LOS ANGELES: To mark its 30th year in production, a championship-winning Suzuki sports bike is getting a limited edition paint job.

The anniversary edition of Suzuki's GSX-R, which will go on sale this November, is finished in the classic blue and white livery that adorned racer Kevin Schwantz's GSX-R when he rode to victory in 1985.

Thirty years on the bike has evolved considerably in terms of technology and power -- it now has a 1000cc engine and ABS but it is still devastating rivals at the track and the celebratory model is just that, a reminder of the bike's achievements.

Other than the unique paint finish, the bike is the same as the current road-going model.

The bike has a 999cc, 4-stroke, 4 cylinder liquid cooled DOHC engine, with a 6-speed, constant mesh transmission.The engine makes 183hp at 12,000rpm and 117Nm at 10,000rpm.

Optimally shaped combustion chambers and a compression ratio of 12.9:1 promote low-range and mid-range performance and help realise a broad torque curve.

Electronically controlled steering damper contributes to handling stability and a more alert and agile feel by increasing the damping force at higher speeds and reducing it at lower speeds.

The front disc brakes are equipped with the top-of-the–line radial-mount Brembo monobloc calipers along with a single-piston caliper rear brake.


Hyundai hires former GM researcher to lead self-driving car centre

                SEOUL: Hyundai Motor Group has hired a former General Motors researcher to oversee its centre to develop fully autonomous vehicles, joining other automakers and Silicon Valley giants in accelerating efforts on the fast-growing technology.

Lee Jin-woo, 47, who has previously led autonomous driving technology development at General Motors (GM) for more than a decade, will head the newly established Intelligent Safety Technology Center - a combined research body for Hyundai Motor and its affiliate Kia Motors - starting today.

"The new centre will not only enhance existing Advanced Drive Assistance System technologies but also conduct research into artificial intelligence related self-driving car technologies with the aim of commercialising those technologies," Hyundai Motor said in a statement today.

Hyundai Motor and Kia, together the world's fifth-largest automaker, aim to develop highly automated vehicles by 2020 and fully autonomous vehicles by 2030.

However, experts say Hyundai needs to do more to catch up with rivals in the self-driving car race.

Last week, Ford announced plans to invest US$1 billion over the next five years in autonomous vehicle tech firm Argo AI, while GM made a billion-dollar bet a year ago with its acquisition of Silicon Valley self-driving startup Cruise Automation.

"Bringing in one person is not enough. Hyundai should form alliances with other companies, which will help hedge financial risks related to developing self-driving cars at a time of falling profit," said Lee Hang-koo, a senior research fellow at Korea Institute for Industrial Economics & Trade.

"But this requires commitment from the top management."

Hyundai Motor, which has typically promoted executives from within, has hired a series of executives from overseas, mostly in the design and engineering field.

Lee earned a post-doctorate at Cornell University, after studying at South Korea's KAIST and Seoul National University.


Ford production of electric Mustang exceeds gas-powered models

                DETROIT: Ford surpassed a significant milestone in its conversion to electric vehicles, producing more battery-powered Mustangs so far this year than gasoline-fuelled versions of its iconic pony car.

Ford has built 27,816 electric Mustang Mach-E models at a plant in Mexico this year compared to 26,089 copies of the traditional internal combustion engine Mustang at a factory in Michigan, according to production data the automaker released Thursday.

Chief executive officer Jim Farley said last week that he expects four-in-10 models Ford sells to be electric by 2030, as he revealed plans to boost spending on battery-powered models by 36% to $30 billion.

The Mach-E went on sale late last year and was the top-selling vehicle in Norway last month. In the US, where EV adoption is slower, the gas Mustang still outsells the electric version by nearly three-to-one.

“Mach-E has been much stronger than we expected, so we’ve totally run out of stock,” Farley told reporters at the introduction of the electric F-150 Lightning pickup May 19.

“Mach-E is going global as we speak, but in the US” the wait for a Mach-E “is months.”

The global computer-chip shortage hobbling the auto industry played a role in the Mach-E surpassing the traditional Mustang.

Farley said the company is prioritising its newest models, such as the Mach-E and the Bronco SUV, as its distributes its scarce supply of semiconductor modules. Ford’s Flat Rock, Michigan, factory built no gas Mustangs last month, according to the production data.

“We have purposely protected our launches - Bronco, Bronco Sport , Mach-E, F-150,” Farley said. “If we can switch a module over to one of those launch vehicles, we have. We’re very protective of the launches because they are so important for our business.”

Ford said its supply of gasoline-fueled Mustangs is down to 24 days, about one-third of what is considered a healthy inventory.

“We are really excited about the success that we are having with our launch of the all-new Mustang Mach-E, not just here in America, but globally too,” Erich Merkle, Ford’s sales analyst, said in an emailed statement.

“To be fair, please keep in mind that Mustang and Flat Rock have been impacted by outside factors, which has been the semiconductor chip shortage.”


                STUTTGART: Some questions just have to be asked. Porsche says it has the answers— delivered with an amusing twist. This time: Just how big are the biggest batteries in the world?

It all began very modestly.

In 1800, the Italian physicist Alessandro Volta presented an invention to the venerable Royal Society in London which made an unassuming impression at first, but would quickly make name for itself all around the world: the Voltaic pile, the forerunner of today’s batteries.

The structure of the cylindrical object was typical of the era and consisted largely of wood—with plastic as an insulating material for the housing having not yet been invented at the time.

The functional principle of first power source, however, was actually very modern: Plates made of different metals such as copper and zinc were separated from each other by pieces of cardboard or leather that were saturated with an electrolyte (for example, salt water or lye).

Today’s batteries use the same basic principle for operation. But while these early sources of power developed in the 19th century were primarily used as aids in the laboratory, today’s batteries play a key role in electronic devices and electric vehicles.

And that’s not all: In the future, they are supposed to also help bring the fluctuating production of renewable energies into line with effective power consumption levels.

One example of how this will be achieved is a "grid booster" made of lithium-ion batteries currently being put together in Kupferzell, Baden-Württemberg, covering an area the size of four-and-a-half soccer fields. From 2025 on, it will be able to deliver a maximum of 250 megawatts of power—for one hour, amounting to a capacity of 250 megawatt-hours (MWh).

Not, however, that this puts the grid booster in Kupferzell anywhere near the top of the list of the world’s largest batteries.

That honour is taken by the Moss Landing Energy Storage Facility in Landing Harbor, California, which has a capacity of 1,200 MWh and is also based on lithium-ion batteries.

Also in California—in Lancaster near Los Angeles—is the Luna LAB Energy Storage Facility, comprising lithium-ion batteries that boast a storage capacity of 908 MWh. It can supply 170,000 households in the US state with clean electricity for four hours.

Not bad for a technology that first saw the light of day 200 years ago as a concoction of wood and metal.


                LONDON: Bespoke automotive manufacturer R-Reforged will produce its Aston Martin Vantage V12 Zagato Heritage TWINS in-house at its new facility in Warwick.

R-Reforged will hand build the 38 Coupé and Speedster TWINS that celebrate the centenary of the Zagato Atelier (1919-2019) and 60-year long partnership between the Milanese ‘Signature’ and British sports car manufacturer.

Offered solely in pairs to just 19 customers (with the majority already sold), the sculpted Aston Martin Vantage V12 Zagato Heritage TWINS by R-Reforged were created by Zagato and R-Reforged to combine the best of two automotive worlds: a sporting Speedster in its purest form and a timeless Coupé, redefining the 2011 Aston Martin Vantage V12 Zagato.

Each features iconic Zagato design cues synonymous with the Carrozzeria, notably the ‘double bubble’ roof on the Coupé and, exclusively, the 100th anniversary gold Z badging.

Now derived from the later V12 Vantage, the 19 Coupés and 19 Speedsters feature a reworked version of its 5.9 litre 48 valve, naturally aspirated engine to produce 600bhp (85bhp more than the original).

Clothed in an all-carbon fibre body, both incorporate an active aero and deployable rear wing to improve stability at high speeds.

This is combined with design tweaks such as new, centre locking 19-inch bespoke alloy wheels designed by APP Tech.

“The Aston Martin Vantage V12 Zagato Heritage TWINS by R-Reforged are undoubtedly a highlight of our centenary celebrations,” says Andrea Zagato, “A beautiful, bespoke and intrinsic part of our history and creative association with Aston Martin.”

Aston Martin VP and chief marketing officer, Peter Freedman said: “Aston Martin’s relationship with Zagato stretches back 60 years.”

Marella Rivolta Zagato, who co-runs the Italian design house, specified the first two cars.

She explained: “When I was selecting the body colours, I looked for something that would simultaneously represent our 100-year heritage and our future. The most symbolic colours are gold and platinum, which are precious metals.”

R-Reforged forms part of the AF Racing Group, an organisation working closely with Aston Martin as project partners on the Aston Martin Valkyrie.

Formed in 2018, Swiss-based R-Reforged focuses on vehicle refinement and associated small-scale series production.

R-Reforged is a brand of the R-Universe together with R-Experience, R-Service and R-Motorsport, which are wholly owned by Swiss AF Racing Group.