KL City Hall to take over clamping operations from contractor

                KUALA LUMPUR: City Hall (DBKL) will be taking over clamping operations from their appointed contractor Vista Summerose Sdn Bhd effective Nov 1.

Mayor Datuk Nor Hisham Ahmad Dahlan said his legal department would be reviewing the contract and studying the legality of the action.

“But in the meantime, our enforcement team will take over clamping operations in the city using our own SOP (standard operating procedure) and by-laws," Nor Hisham said.

This latest development follows yesterday's report in Star Metro that clamping operations in Kuala Lumpur would be suspended indefinitely from November after a directive issued by the mayor's office. Now, the mayor appears to have changed his mind about suspending clamping indefinitely.

When asked why DBKL was taking over the job, Nor Hisham said: “They (parking operators) are too aggressive and were unreasonable."

“They have a KPI of 1,000 (cars to clamp) per day, and sometimes they are too aggressive when fulfilling that number," he said.

When asked to explain what he meant by aggressive, the mayor said: “Sometimes people park for just a few minutes, and they will clamp the car," he said.

“And there were complaints that people had to wait more than one hour to get their cars released.

"We are very uneasy about these complaints, so we will review (contract) and take over for now," he said.

When asked what would be a reasonable grace period to allow people who have illegally parked to not be compounded, the mayor said: “Fifteen minutes. We will give them a maximum of 15 minutes before we take action," he said.

The clamping issue stretches back to May this year. Following requests by Kuala Lumpur MPs, clamping was suspended for a few days that month.

However, it was lifted in non-hotspot areas in the city.

When contacted, Kepong MP Lim Lip Eng said he agreed with the mayor’s decision for DBKL to take over clamping operations, saying that parking should never have been privatised in the first place.

“While I agree that clamping is effective to curb congestion, the way Vista Summerose is doing it was wrong," he said.

“They were not following the SOP properly, and sufficient warning and time were not given to motorists," he added.

When contacted, Vista Summerose managing director Datuk Nik Haidi Nik Mohamad said he followed the SOP that was prepared, issued and approved by DBKL.

“We were accused for being a crony company to the previous government, but the truth is we have been in the parking business since the 1980s during the late Tan Sri Elyas Omar’s (KL's 3rd mayor) time and have worked in 34 towns and cities nationwide," he said.

“Based on our data, every day there are about 70% of traffic dodgers in the city who don’t pay parking charges.

“That is equivalent to 150,000 to 200,000 cars that are monopolising parking bays and depriving others from using it," he said.

“So the way we see it, we are educating 200,000 motorists by clamping the cars of 1,000 traffic violators."

According to Nik Haidi, up until last month, only RM8mil out of RM1bil's worth of compound notices has been paid since 2010.

About 915 vehicles are clamped per day with 3,600 compound notices issued daily.

DBKL's parking contract was outsourced to Yayasan Wilayah Persekutuan (YWP), which at the time then headed by then Federal Territories Minister Datuk Seri Tengku Adnan Tengku Mansor. YWP then privatised the enforcement of parking rules and wheel clamping to contractor Vista Summerose in September 2016.


Honda apes classic designs with launch of revamped Monkey

                LONDON: Honda is set to release a redesigned version of its beloved Monkey motorcycle in June.

The mini motorbike originally debuted in a Japanese amusement park in 1961, but later found its way onto the road in countries around the world. After a long break, Honda will soon be offering the Monkey back in global markets. Honda has not yet announced prices.

Small wheels and a relatively low seat height, trademarks of the original Monkey's design, have been preserved in the new edition. Classic details such as the single seat, rounded rear-view mirrors and chrome details complete its classic look.

The Monkey's air-cooled 125-cc single-cylinder engine has 9.4hp. The bike also has 12-inch cast aluminium wheels, weighs 107 kilograms when fully fuelled and features an anti-lock braking system and LED headlights.


Daimler to buy US$23bil of battery cells for electric car drive

FRANKFURT: Daimler will buy battery cells worth more than 20 billion euros (RM96.3bil) by 2030 as it readies mass production of hybrid and electric vehicles, the maker of Mercedes-Benz cars said today.

The company is one of a number of German automakers massively expanding in electric vehicles as European regulators clamp down on toxic diesel emissions.

“With extensive orders for battery cells until the year 2030, we set another important milestone for the electrification of our future electric vehicles,” Wilko Stark, who oversees procurement and supplier quality on the board of Mercedes-Benz Cars, said in a statement.

Daimler declined to say which suppliers would be awarded the contracts. The company already has battery cell supply deals with Korea’s SK Innovation, LG Chem and China’s Contemporary Amperex Technology (CATL), as it plans to launch 130 electric and hybrid vehicles by 2022 in addition to making electric vans, buses and trucks.

Stuttgart-based Daimler needs battery cells as it builds a global network of battery assembly plants in Kamenz, Untertuerkheim and Sindelfingen in Germany, as well as in Beijing, Bangkok, and Tuscaloosa, United States.

Daimler said it was expanding its competence in battery cell research and working on next generation batteries to cut its dependence on costly rare earth minerals including cobalt, which is mainly sourced from war-torn Democratic Republic of Congo.

The Mercedes-Benz EQ electric car, set for a 2019 launch, will use battery cells containing 60 percent nickel, 20 percent manganese and 20 percent cobalt, the company said.

Future Mercedes-Benz electric cars will contain batteries using 80 percent nickel and only 10 percent manganese and 10 percent cobalt, it added.

“Our engineers are also working on a ratio with 90 percent nickel, 5 percent manganese 5 percent cobalt in order to reduce the amount of rare earth metals even further,” Daimler said, adding it was also working on solid state batteries - which don’t require any cobalt - for future products.

The auto industry currently has a range of different battery recipes competing for use in battery cathodes. One is NCA, or lithium nickel cobalt aluminum oxide, produced by Panasonic and used by Tesla.

Chinese manufacturers use a composition called LFP which has a lower energy density but does without cobalt, while Japanese carmakers use LMO, or lithium manganese oxide, which is used by Nissan and LG Chem.


Nissan Serena S-Hybrid Tuned by IMPUL now available

                KUALA LUMPUR: Edaran Tan Chong Motor Sdn Bhd (ETCM) has introduced the sportier Nissan Serena S-Hybrid Tuned by IMPUL.

With IMPUL additions, this Serena S HYbrid's range has been extended by an additional two more models - the 2.0L IMPUL Highway Star at RM145,578.59 and 2.0L IMPUL Premium Highway Star at RM155,863.43. Prices quoted are on-the-road with GST without insurance.

The Serena S-Hybrid Tuned by IMPUL gets a new front bumper, rear bumper spoiler, side skirts and a Roof spoiler for the exterior, while getting accented by IMPUL chrome sport ducts and a chrome bonnet fin before up-sizing the wheels to 18-inch IMPUL Aura SX-50 alloys in gun-metallic and gloss finish and fitted with MICHELIN Pilot Sport 3 tyres.

Exclusively for 2.0L IMPUL Premium Highway Star, the Serena S-Hybrid offers diamond-stitched combination leather seats with IMPUL logo embossed to the front seats.

The additional parts are also available for existing owners of the locally-assembled Nissan Serena S-Hybrid and can uptake the IMPUL package by calling ETCM's IMPUL division at +603 4047 8786 or email impul@tanchonggroup.com.

To adapt to the current trend where MPVs are tuned with even more style and sophistication, ETCM has introduced to Malaysians the Nissan Serena S-Hybrid Tuned by IMPUL. We believe that this fresh appearance will bring added value to Nissan vehicles as IMPUL is now made possible not only for sedans, SUVs and crossovers, but MPVs as well,” said ETCM director of marketing and product planning Tan Keng Meng.

For more information, log on to www.impul.com.my.


Carmakers can kiss pre-pandemic combustion car sales goodbye

                OSLO: There are growing signs that global auto sales will continue their comeback from the pandemic, chip shortage and other supply chain snarls.

As the recovery takes shape, it’s becoming clearer that sales of internal combustion vehicles are unlikely to ever return to pre-pandemic levels.

Calling peaks is generally a no-win endeavour.

The call will either be correct but seem obvious after the fact, or wrong and cause for years of mockery.

But with 2022 data now available, BNEF is confident the global market for internal combustion vehicles peaked in 2017 and is now in structural decline.

This may seem self-evident to those watching the market closely, but is likely still jarring for others.

Forecasts for oil demand issued just a few years ago still assumed steady growth in sales of these vehicles well into the 2030s.

At the 2017 peak, 86 million internal combustion passenger vehicles were sold, including traditional hybrids like the Toyota Prius. Battery-electric and plug-in hybrid models were a tiny sliver of the market that year, accounting for just over 1 million vehicles combined.

The picture was quite different in 2022. Combustion vehicle sales were down almost 20% from the peak, to 69 million, and plug-in vehicles jumped to 10.4 million.

Even if we add plug-in hybrids to the internal combustion column, the picture doesn’t change much. The market still would have peaked in 2017, and global sales in 2022 would be 72 million, still 16% off the high from five years earlier.

The trend in China is even more pronounced.

Plug-in vehicles made up 26% of vehicle sales in 2022, while combustion models were 28% off the 2017 peak. BNEF is expecting plug-in models to be around a third of all passenger vehicles sold there this year.

The story is similar in Europe, with internal combustion vehicle sales down significantly from their peak.

In the US, EV sales are poised for a breakout year with support from the Inflation Reduction Act.

It’s worth exploring if anything could reverse this trend.

There’s a big gap in EV adoption between wealthy and emerging economies, for example.

But while it’s tempting to think this could offset what’s happening in China, Europe and North America, it’s hard to see where the growth in combustion vehicle sales would come from.

Southeast Asia is a growing car market, but even there, much of the expansion is poised to be taken up by EVs rather than gasoline models.

Countries including Thailand and Indonesia are pushing to become hubs for battery and EV production.

It’s a similar story in India, where EVs are on the ascent and the government has big ambitions to build up a domestic industry. Sales went from 15,000 in 2021 to almost 50,000 in 2022, and BNEF is expecting the strong growth to continue this year.

New-vehicle sales in Brazil and Mexico are largely flat, and the numbers in Africa are still very small.

Combustion vehicles may eke out a minor gain this year over 2022 levels, but global deliveries won’t come anywhere near the high of 2017.

With respect to energy market implications, it’s the fleet that matters, and the changeover will take time.

Pinning down the exact number of vehicles in the world is a tricky exercise, but BNEF expects the global combustion vehicle fleet to be relatively steady for the next three years before starting to decline in earnest from 2026 onward as the EV fleet swells.

Once the fleet turns, it will be almost impossible to reverse, and that will have ramifications for oil demand and emissions.

In BNEF’s models, overall oil demand from road transport is set to peak in 2027, just four years from now.

Trucks are the next battleground, but the future is shifting quickly there, too.

Already 7% of all commercial vehicle sales in China were electric last year. Even heavy truck sales - long viewed as the hardest to electrify - crossed 5% EV share there in December.

Assuming combustion car sales did crest in 2017, another set of peaks won’t be far behind.


BMW Malaysia steps up push to sell more electrified cars

                KUALA LUMPUR: BMW Malaysia today anounced its "Joy.Electrified by i" sales campaign to put more electrified cars on the road.

The offers listed in the campaign end on March 31.

It kicks off with offers on the 530e plug-in hybrid. It is being promoted with a financing rate of 0.33% under the BMW Straight Line Financing Solution and comes with rebates from RM20,000.

In addition, BMW Malaysia is throwing in a free 1-year BMW Comprehensive Motor Insurance, as well as free a 1-year BMW Ultimate Protection Programme. All new cars will also receive a 6-year or 100,000 km hybrid battery warranty.

Should a BMW be declared total loss or stolen within the first 12 months of ownership, it will be replaced with a new unit of the same model. The motor insurance programme would also settle the total loss or theft claims within one month. It also touts such benefits as instant claim processing of windscreen damage and waiver of betterment for vehicles up to 10 years.

BMW Ultimate Protection Programme is the first-of-its-kind insurance plan underwritten by Allianz General Insurance Company. It offers both the driver and his BMW car a special relief, scratch and dent, flood coverage, among others.

The campaign period also introduces the BMW ChargeNow promo where new owners of selected iPerformance vehicles will receive the BMW i AC fast charging cable and BMW ChargeNow card, which grants access to partner charging stations like ChargEV by Malaysian Green Technology Corporation.

With the BMW ChargeNow service, customers can enjoy 24/7 support and access to all charging locations in ChargEV’s growing network which now offers more than 270 charging facilities nationwide. Additionally, new owners of the 740Le will enjoy a complimentary BMW i Wallbox Plus and BMW i AC fast charging cable with the BMW i Wallbox promo.

Don't worry that replacing a plug-in hybrid’s battery may burn a hole in your pocket.

The batteries for BMW cars are designed in a modular system which is unique in the industry. With modular battery packs like the one in the 530e M Sport, you can replace one module for just RM5,000 instead of replacing an entire pack. The battery pack comes with six modules.

On the average battery lifespan, drivers of electrified cars should note that with a favourable driving profile, regular charging from the socket and by avoiding long storage periods without charging, the battery health and capacity can go well beyond the warranty period of six-years/100,000km.


Scientists create super-strong, lightweight metal with nanoparticles

                LOS ANGELES: US scientists have invented a new metal that combines magnesium infused with silicon carbide nanoparticles for exceptional strength and lightness.

The new metal could be used for, among others, airplanes, cars and mobile electronics.

To create the super-strong but lightweight metal, the team researchers from the UCLA (University of California, Los Angeles) Henry Samueli School of Engineering and Applied Science found a new way to disperse and stabilise nanoparticles in molten metals. They also developed a scalable manufacturing method that could pave the way for more high-performance lightweight metals. The research was published today in Nature. Li

"It's been proposed that nanoparticles could really enhance the strength of metals without damaging their plasticity, especially light metals like magnesium, but no groups have been able to disperse ceramic nanoparticles in molten metals until now," said Xiaochun Li, the principal investigator on the research and Raytheon Chair in Manufacturing Engineering at UCLA.

"With an infusion of physics and materials processing, our method paves a new way to enhance the performance of many different kinds of metals by evenly infusing dense nanoparticles to enhance the performance of metals to meet energy and sustainability challenges in today's society."

Structural metals are load-bearing metals; they are used in buildings and vehicles. Magnesium, at just two-thirds the density of aluminum, is the lightest structural metal. Silicon carbide is an ultra-hard ceramic commonly used in industrial cutting blades. The researchers' technique of infusing a large number of silicon carbide particles smaller than 100 nanometers into magnesium added significant strength, stiffness, plasticity and durability under high temperatures.

The newly discovered nanoparticle dispersion relies on the kinetic energy in the particles' movement. This stabilizes the particles' dispersion and prevents clumping.

To further enhance the new metal's strength, the researchers used a technique called high-pressure torsion to compress it.

The new metal (more accurately called a metal nanocomposite) is about 14 percent silicon carbide nanoparticles and 86 percent magnesium. The researchers noted that magnesium is an abundant resource and that scaling up its use would not cause environmental damage.


Peugeot to introduce electric version of Partner Tepee

                LONDON: French carmaker, Peugeot, has partnered with Tepee Electric to bring about an all-electric vehicle with more than 160km of certified range on a single charge.

The Peugeot Partner Tepee Electric is basically showing the company's intention to make electric vehicles more accessible to the masses.

Ear-marked to make its debut at the upcoming Geneva International Motor Show in March, the EV's attractiveness stems from its proposition of low running costs and its zero-emissions environmental credentials.

For convenience, owners will be able to remotely control certain functions of the EV via a smartphone or tablet, such as the air-conditioning and battery charging.

There will be other standard driving assistance features such as hill-assist start, cruise-control, reverse camera and an eight-year or 100,000km battery warranty for some peace of mind.

Whether its for personal or business use, it's three rear seats are able to fully fold flat to expand the existing 1,350-litre boot space to 3,000 litres.

“The vehicle offers an impressive range and is easy to run and maintain, making it a highly attractive option for those looking to switch to electric,” said Peugeot UK managing director David Peel.


Conditional MCO extended for another four weeks to June 9

                PETALING JAYA: The movement control order (MCO) has been extended for another four weeks until June 9, says Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin.

He made the announcement in a live broadcast today.

This will be the fifth time that the government has decided to extend the MCO.

The MCO was first enforced on March 18 for a two-week period after a spike of Covid-19 cases in the country.

It was then extended in phases, each phase lasting two weeks.

The country is now in the fourth phase of the MCO, which will be in place until May 12.

However, on May 4, the government imposed the conditional MCO, which allowed almost all economic sectors to reopen.

Muhyiddin said a research agency in Singapore had recently ranked Malaysia fourth out of 105 countries in terms of public satisfaction over how the government is handling the Covid-19 pandemic.

As of May 9, 4,929 or 74.8% of infected people have recovered.


McLaren Ultimate Series set for Dec 10 reveal

                DUBAI: McLaren said on Tuesday its next Ultimate Series model will be revealed online on Dec 10.

The Ultimate Series car will be the ultimate track-focused McLaren, with daily usability sacrificed to give the most intensive driver experience around a circuit.

Designed as the most extreme road-legal McLaren ever, it is the third of 15 new models or derivatives due by the end of 2022 under the McLaren Track22 business plan. It will be delivered ahead of a second future Ultimate Series model codenamed BP23, which aims to be the world’s first Hyper-GT.

Positioned above McLaren’s core Super Series, the Ultimate Series has previously comprised the P1 and P1 GTR. Like these two cars, the new generation of McLaren Ultimate Series models will be available in strictly limited numbers.

The public debut of the new McLaren is scheduled to place in March at the 2018 Geneva Motor Show.


New Peugeot 408 transformed into SUV coupe

                PARIS: Peugeot is getting ready to introduce the 408 as a SUV fastback or coupe by the end of June.

It released a teaser photo today showing the grille of the car and the model number above. The French automaker said the new 408 would be an SUV fastback.

The 408 that we were familiar with used to refer to Peugeot sedans and stationwagon. That's history from here on.

The new 408 is likely to be built on a stretched version of the EMP2 platform, and it wouldn't surprise us to know Peugeot would offer various powertrain choices from combustion engine to plug-in hybrids and a battery electric version, perhaps further down the road. Output could range between 177hp and 355hp.

Peugeot said the new 408 would be a global model, so that means it would not only be sold in Europe but would cater to a broader market.


Honda BR-V arrives, priced at RM85,800 and RM92,800

                KUALA LUMPUR: The Honda BR-V seven-seater crossover has arrived here, priced on-the-road at RM85,800 (E variant) and RM92,800 (V variant).

It comes with a five-year warranty with unlimited mileage, and service intervals are every 10,000km.

Up to six free labour services are offered (alternating with paid services) up till the 100,000km mark.

Billed as offering an SUV (sport utility vehicle) body and the roominess of an MPV (multi-purpose vehicle), the BR-V is powered by a 1.5- litre SOHC i-VTEC engine delivering 120ps at 6,600rpm and 145Nm of torque at 4,600rpm.

It has a CVT (continuous variable transmission) which was developed under Honda’s Earth Dreams Technology.

Based on fuel consumption tests in Thailand, the BR-V can deliver 15.5km per litre.

The BR-V also earned a maximum 5-star safety rating from the ASEAN New Car Assessment Programme (NCAP).

Standard safety features include two airbags, VSA (vehicle stability assist), HSA (hill start assist), ABS (anti-lock braking system), EBD  (electronic brake distribution) and ISOFIX points for child car seats.

Class-leading highlights include the biggest trunk space (223 litres with all seats up, 539 litres when 3rd row seats are folded), highest  engine output (120ps) and highest ground clearance (201mm).

Standard equipment include rear air-conditioning, electric power steering, rear drum brakes, 195/60 R16 tyres, halogen projector headlights, LED daytime running lights, roof rails, 11 cup holders, and a four-speaker audio system with USB and Bluetooth, hands-free features.

The entry-level E variant gets body-coloured outer door handles, mechanical tailgate lock, manual air-conditioning, and fabric seats.

The higher grade V variant costs an extra RM7,000 and gets front fog lights, chrome outer door handles, electrical tail gate lock, smart entry with engine push-start button, audio controls on the steering wheel, automatic air-conditioning, leather upholstery, and a 6.1-inch display screen with HDMI port, and rear view camera.

READ MORE:
Honda BR-V not under-powered, says chief engineer
Honda BR-V open for booking
First drive of Honda BR-V in Bangkok
Honda aims BR-V at smaller families, too

The BR-V offers impressive practicality, with its multi-configuration seats where second row seats have an easy one-touch tilt and tumble in a 60:40 configuration while third row seats have 50:50 tilt and tumble.

The BR-V also received an enhanced NVH (noise, vibration and harshness) improvement which includes bulkhead sound muffling, insulators for back roof lining, hood and doors and improved steering vibration.

The BR-V is offered in five colours namely Dark Ruby Red Pearl, Modern Steel Metallic, Lunar Silver Metallic, Taffeta White and a brand new colour, Golden Brown Metallic.

The BR-V also comes with three versatile accessories packages.

The Utility package priced at RM1,280 includes door visor, cargo tray, trunk organisers, sun shade and door protector film.

The Urban package includes tailgate spoiler, running board and side step garnish and is priced at RM2,945.

The Modulo package is priced at RM3,750 and offers front and rear lower garnish as well as side under and tailgate spoilers.

Standard equipment (E and V variants)

* Halogen head lamps with LED Daytime Running Lights
* Side mirrors with Turning lights
* Roof rails
* Pole antenna
* Rear air-conditioning ventilation
* 11 cupholders
* 12V power outlet
* Dual front airbags
* Second row ISOFIX points
* Vehicle Stability Assist
* Anti-lock braking system
* Electronic brakeforce distribution
* Hill Start assist
* Reverse sensors
* Security alarm with immobiliser

E variant only

* Body colour outer door handles
* Mechanical tailgate lock
* Shiny dark metallic instrument panel
* Manual air-conditioning
* Fabric upholstery
* Urethane steering wheel and gear knob
* Standard audio system with Bluetooth, USB, AUX, handsfree and 4 speakers

Photo gallery (E Variant)

V variant only

* Chrome outer door handles
* Bumper lower garnish
* Chrome side protector
* Smart Entry with Push Start Button
* Electrical tailgate lock
* Steering wheel switch audio control
* Water print matt instrument panel
* Automatic air-conditioning
* Combi leather upholstery
* Leather steering wheel and gear knob
* Leather door lining armrest
* Assistant seatback pocket
* Assistant vanity mirror
* 6.1-inch audio display with Bluetooth, USB, HDMI, AUX, mobile phone handsfree support and 4 speakers
* Reverse camera

Photo gallery (V variant)


Tesla tells US of new fatal crashes involving automated driving

                WASHINGTON: Tesla Inc. disclosed to US regulators two new fatal crashes involving automated driver-assist systems, bringing its total to 16 since the government required carmakers to begin submitting data on such accidents in June 2021.

The new crashes, both involving Tesla Model 3 vehicles, were reported between Sept 15 and Oct 15, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration said.

Tesla previously reported 14 fatal crashes involving its Autopilot system since June 2021.

Safety advocates in Washington have called for regulators and lawmakers to set firmer rules for so-called self-driving cars and technologies such as Tesla’s Autopilot driver-assist feature, which are gaining popularity.

The figures were included in the third public release of data collected about crashes involving so-called Level 2 automated driving systems, gathered under a June 2021 order demanding carmakers and technology companies report the incidents.

The safety agency recently escalated an investigation into whether Tesla’s Autopilot system is defective.

It opened the probe, which is unrelated to the data released this week, in August 2021, when it began looking into how the system handles crash scenes following a dozen collisions with first-responders and other vehicles.


2017 Geneva Motor Show: FIAT debuts stylish Fullback Cross pick-up truck

                GENEVA: FIAT has unveiled the new and trendy-looking Fullback Cross pick-up truck at the Geneva Motor Show.

The new model has been designed to further broaden the appeal of the FIAT Fullback with lifestyle users. As well as going on sale via the Fiat Professional dealer network, the Fullback range will also be available through the Fiat passenger cars dealer network.

The Fullback Cross, based on the Mitsubishi L200, features a range of interior and exterior styling upgrades, including a new grille with matt black ingots, a satin silver skid plate, eye-catching black details and revised larger side steps. The Fullback, by the way, is assembled in Thailand.

An exclusive textured black sport bar gives the Fullback Cross a sleeker silhouette and underlines its dynamic profile. The model’s individual look is completed by the new all-black cargo space, with the Fiat logo in relief.

Available as a double cab, the Fullback Cross comes with a 2.4-litre common rail turbodiesel engine and develops 180hp and a maximum torque of 430Nm. There are also two transmissions available: six-speed manual or five-speed automatic with sporty sequential mode and dashboard commands.

The Fullback is equipped with an electronic selector allowing drivers to engage the all-wheel drive system, with a choice of four modes. A central differential, supported by three electronically controlled clutch modes, manage torque transmission to the wheels in real time based on road conditions and speed.

The Fullback Cross features such standard safety equipment as ABS with EBD, TSA (Trailer Stability Assist – a system which aids stability during towing), LDW (Lane Departure Warning), seven airbags and cruise control. Bi-xenon headlights, front fog lights and LED daytime running lights are also included as standard.

The interior features leather seats, steering wheel and gear knob, automatic dual zone climate control and heated front seats, with six-way electric adjustment on the driver's side.

The infotainment equipment includes a 7-inch touchscreen with DAB CD/MP3 Radio, Bluetooth and USB port. A rear parking camera and satellite navigation complete the interior set-up.


Ford reveals video of 'Feel the View' technology

                DETROIT: A lot of the cutting-edge technology we see appearing in our cars comes from top-line motorsport such as Formula 1, which often starts to appear as an expensive option in high-end models at first and then trickles down over time into the mainstream.

That type of tech inevitably tends to be about performance or safety, so it's often left to vehicle manufacturers to come up with some of the more imaginative and niche developments.

Ford has now developed something that would never have come out of Formula, which is an intriguing system designed to give blind people an idea of what's outside of the car window.

Ford calls this system "Feel the View," and it delivers information to blind passengers in a very clever way using vibrations on the glass.

The device sits on top of the passenger window and has a camera facing outside the vehicle. At the press of a button the system takes an image of the current view which is then converted into black and white.

Different shades are then translated into different levels of vibration, and the system also tracks the passenger's finger so it can vibrate differently as the finger passes over various parts of the image, just as if the image was being projected onto the window.

To show this very clever system in operation, Ford has released a video that shows just how much it could mean for making the world more accessible and inclusive for those with seriously impaired vision.

It's not expected that Feel the View will become part of the standard or optional equipment in most new Ford vehicles anytime soon, but it would be fantastic if it was to be made widely available in some form by the Blue Oval or put into mass production in some other way.

It's possible the system has been created as part of the ongoing development of driverless vehicle technology, but regardless of how it has come about, it would be a shame if it wasn't made widely available in some form in the not-too-distant future.


State-of-the-art Toyota HQ opens in Texas

                PLANO (Texas): Toyota Motor North America, Inc. (TMNA) is celebrating the official opening of its new North American headquarters in Plano, Texas with a gala event to be attended by hundreds of dignitaries, partners and community leaders who will get the first glimpse of Toyota’s new corporate campus that reaffirms the company’s longstanding commitment to the United States.

“The opening of our new headquarters in Plano is an extraordinary next step in Toyota’s 60-year journey in the United States,” said Jim Lentz, CEO of Toyota in North America.

“With team members from four different companies together in one campus location, we believe this will inspire greater collaboration, innovation, and faster decision making as we turn to and lead the future of mobility, all with an eye on our customers.”

Lentz added, “We appreciate the support from President Trump of our continued commitment to investing in the US and sustaining American jobs.”

Congratulating Toyota on its grand opening, the company received a written statement from the White House, signed by the President.

Three years ago, Toyota announced its “One Toyota” initiative to create more unified operations in North America, in part, by bringing together its quality engineering, sales, marketing, financial services, and corporate functions in one location.

Since then, the company has invested about US$1 billion on the project to build its new corporate campus on 100 acres in Plano and move thousands of team members and their families from California, Kentucky and beyond to North Texas.

With construction nearly complete, occupancy began in late spring, and an average of a couple hundred team members per week are moving in, which is expected to continue in phases through December.

In a separate development, the Toyota C-HR leads the pack as the top-selling new SUV during the first half of 2017.Toyota Motor Corporation revealed strong first-half results for its C-HR model, with sales topping 79,303 units, earning the top spot among all automakers in the number of new SUVs sold in Japan during the first half of 2017.In addition, C-HR sales peaked at 13,168 units in April 2017, making the C-HR the most purchased vehicle in Japanese market (including mini-vehicle sales) within that month.The C-HR debuted in December 2016 as an SUV that reflects Toyota's commitment to design and a quality driving experience.The C-HR is popular with customers of all ages with its sleek cabin profile and diamond architectural theme exuding a bold and daring personality, combined with the Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA)2 platform that enhances driving performance through a low center of gravity and top-class fuel economy.


Electric car range sapped by hot and cold weather, US test finds

                ORLANDO: Cold weather can sap the battery power of electric cars by more than 40 per cent, according to tests carried out by the AAA motoring club in the United States.

The results confirmed what many EV owners have suspected and will do little to comfort buyers holding back from buying an electric car because of range anxiety.

The AAA club, which has 59 million members, put five popular, electrically driven production cars through their paces in various weather conditions.

The models chosen were the BMWi3s, a Chevrolet Bolt, Nissan LEAF, Tesla S75D and the e-Golf from Volkswagen.

The cars were driven at temperatures ranging from 23.9 degrees Celsius to -6 degrees C.

On average, the electrics lost 41 per cent of range when the outside temperatures were frigid. This means that the range of a car that manages 100km in summer conditions was slashed to just 56km in sub-zero conditions.

"As long as drivers understand that there are limitations when operating electric vehicles in more extreme climates, they are less likely to be caught off guard by an unexpected drop in driving range," says Greg Brannon, AAA director of Automotive Engineering and Industry Relations.

The trials were carried out twice — once with the car's air-conditioning switched on, and once with it not running.

The biggest range losses occurred when an electric car's power was used for heating the interior and defrosting windows. Cars with conventional petrol or diesel engines use waste heat from combustion for these tasks.

The BMW runabout suffered the biggest range loss — up to 50 per cent — followed by the Chevy Bolt, Tesla, VW and Nissan.

The results are similar to tests carried out by a German car magazine and by the country's huge ADAC motoring club.

Hot climes can also cause problems, since air-conditioning needed to cool down the car's inside also drain the batteries, thus reducing driving range.

AAA urged electric vehicle owners to be aware of a reduction in range and the need to charge more often to minimise the chance of being stranded by a dead battery.


Lotus Emira First Edition boasts world’s most powerful four-cylinder engine

                LONDON: Lotus has confirmed full details on the price and spec of the eagerly anticipated Emira First Edition.

Fully loaded with a host of desirable technology, infotainment and comfort features, plus unique badging, the configurator for the four-cylinder two-seater is now live on www.lotuscars.com.

The Emira is the last petrol-powered car from Lotus before a new all-electric era begins on March 29 when the Type 132 makes its world debut.

Critically acclaimed by the media, customer orders for the Emira V6 First Edition have exceeded expectation and continue to come in from all over the world, according to Lotus.

Last week there was a 50% increase in website traffic and an 175% increase in Emira enquiries following positive global coverage of prototype "first drives".

The new four-cylinder Emira is powered by a bespoke version of AMG’s M139 direct injection engine.

It is made specifically for the Emira, and includes hardware changes to aid mid-mounted integration and new software to give it a Lotus character.

It is the world’s most powerful four-cylinder engine homologated for road use (up to 208bhp / litre), widely regarded as the world’s best i4 unit and has an enviable reputation for reliability.

Using cutting-edge technology, it delivers high performance with low emissions. The twin-scroll turbocharger with roller bearings is optimised for fast spool-up and minimum lag. The exhaust system is designed by Lotus and unique to the Emira.

Key to its appeal is the standard-fit eight-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT) with paddleshift – a first for Lotus.

“It’s a bespoke rear-wheel drive variant of the transmission developed by Lotus in collaboration with AMG. On top of that, the gearshift strategy has been defined by the Hethel team as part of the car’s performance attributes. It is unique to the Emira and optimised for the best blend of outstanding driving engagement and performance, fuel consumption and emissions,” said Lotus director for vehicle attributes Gavan Kershaw.

Delivering 360bhp, the car features a unique engine bay cover and C-pillar badging. As with the Emira V6 First Edition, the i4 version offers a high level of standard equipment and is available with a variety of "no-cost" optional finishes and materials to enable customers to tailor the car to their own style. A number of additional cost options add an extra touch of personalisation.

The car rides on 20-inch ultra-lightweight V-spoke forged alloy wheels.

They’re diamond-cut to create a premium two-tone finish, though silver or gloss black versions are available as a no-cost option.

Two-piece brake discs – with branded calipers in either red, black, yellow or silver – are part of the First Edition spec, plus a Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS). The car comes in one of six vibrant paint colours: Seneca Blue, Magma Red, Hethel Yellow, Dark Verdant, Shadow Grey and Nimbus Grey.

Exterior details include LED lights all round, a titanium exhaust finisher, heated power-fold door mirrors and rear parking sensors. The Lower Black Pack is fitted as standard, which means the front bumper air blades, front splitter, side sills and rear diffuser are all in finished in gloss black.

There are seven interior colour choices, all available at no extra cost. They are red, black, grey and tan Nappa leather, as well as black Alcantara with either red, yellow or grey stitching. Satin chrome trim finishers, white interior mood lighting and Lotus-branded sill kick plates complete the premium look.

The heated seats feature 12-way adjustability and two memory presets linked to the door mirrors (driver’s seat only). Climate control, cruise control, keyless start, voice control and selectable drive modes are all included.

Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are part of the spec, supported by Bluetooth and USB/12v sockets. Integrated satellite navigation is available in selected markets.

The 10-channel/340W premium audio system has been developed in partnership with British brand KEF and includes DAB digital radio.

All functions are accessed through a 10.25-inch centrally mounted touch-screen, with driver feedback through a 12.3-inch TFT instrument cluster ahead of the multi-function steering wheel.

Three more option packs are fitted as standard to the car, making four in total. The Lotus Drivers Pack gives customers the choice of Tour or Sport suspension, and the choice of Goodyear Eagle F1 Supersport or Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tyres.

It also includes Track Mode ESP, with a new Track mode highlighted on the TFT instrument display screen which prioritises information required for high-performance driving.

The Design Pack adds privacy glass, sports pedals, a black Alcantara headliner and Emira-branded footwell mats. The Convenience Pack adds front parking sensors, rear reversing camera, rain-sensing wipers with aero blades, auto-dimming mirrors and a rear luggage storage net.

The Emira First Edition costs £71,995 (RM396,000). Customers in the UK can reserve their chosen car via the website from 8 April and deliveries will start towards the end of the year.

The entry level four-cylinder Emira will, as previously revealed, cost £59,995. The full spec will be announced later this year, with cars available next spring.

The entry level Emira V6 will be launched in January 2023 and will cost £64,995 (€81,995 in Germany, $82,900 in USA). More details on both models, including the full spec and options pricing, will be made available this summer. Online customer reservations will start at the same time.

In addition, Lotus has confirmed that an extended palette of new paints will be available exclusively on the entry level versions of both the Emira and Emira V6. There will be seven new shades coming at the start of 2023, with further details revealed this summer.


2024 Mercedes-Benz GLA updated; PHEV unit has more range

                STUTTGART: Like the new 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLB, the new GLA range gets an updated front and rear design, LED high performance headlights, an upgraded interior, and more extensive standard equipment.

While the four petrol and four diesel powertrain options are the same as the new 2024 GLB, there is a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) GLA 250 e model.

The PHEV offers more power and electric range, with an improved high-voltage battery.

The output of the electric motor has increased by 5 kW to 80 kW, while the system power remains the same.

On the charging side, three options are still available: in addition to the 3.7 kW standard, the battery can now be charged with alternating current and up to 11 kW.

Also, the battery can be charged with direct current and up to 22 kW. This further reduces charging times.

The visualisation of the hybrid functions in the head unit is also updated.

Other updates for the equipment, safety, digital and comfort kit such as the latest MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) generation with intuitive operation and adaptive software, and upgraded Driving Assistance package, are similar to the new 2024 GLB.

READ MORE:2024 Mercedes-Benz GLB gets updated looks and kit


Fifth McLaren Longtail teased in new pic and video

                LONDON: McLaren recently saturated all its social media accounts with teaser images and videos of the upcoming Longtail, scheduled to make its debut Jan 16.

This week, McLaren announced that the next Longtail will be unveiled next week. We've been provided with videos, close-up pics, and even a couple specs to hold us over until Wednesday when the model, likely the 600LT Spider, comes out to play.

Last year, the 600LT coupe was launched, so it's only natural that the topless version will be arriving soon if the company follows the release pattern seen with the 675LT.

Like the 720S, this model will be announced under the Track25 business plan, a McLaren initiative designed to turn the company's lineup completely hybrid by 2025.

The car that will be unveiled next Wednesday will be the fifth to carry the LT name and, like the others, it will be available in extremely limited quantities with production running for just 12 months.

Shockingly enough, this LT hasn't yet reached its capacity in purchase requests like other McLaren models often do before they publicly debut, therefore, you better start pinching your pennies now. The 675LT Spider had a price tag of US$349,500 (RM1.4mil), so adjust your budget accordingly.


Why the most boring spot check on your car is so important

                BERLIN: Checking the tyre pressure on your car has to be one of the most dull and unpleasant duties that car ownership brings with it.

You'll likely find screwing on and off the valve caps cumbersome, perhaps also a waste of time. And yet safety testers warn that neglecting to check the pressure or forgetting to put back the small cap on the valve will only cause a far bigger nuisance.

It's true that valve caps themselves don't have a particularly relevant impact on sealing against pressure loss, like the valve itself.

"But they make an important contribution to protecting the sensitive pressure valve from dirt and dust," explains Achmed Leser from safety inspection agency TÜV.

"The valve is what seals the tyre against loss of pressure," says Leser. "These tiny components open and close via an integrated seal. This gets switched when the pump is turned on."

Valves are exposed to the highest levels of pressure. If dirt gets into the valve stem, pumping up your tyre can then cause a leak.

"The valve no longer closes completely, the air escapes and a gradual flat tyre occurs."

Driving with the wrong pressure, meanwhile is dangerous and also increases fuel consumption, manufacturers say. As many as one in two cars are driven with the wrong air pressure, manufacturer Nokian Tyres warns.

Is there a difference between a metal cap and a plastic one? According to tyre expert Leser, metal valves are no longer just a question of taste, but are already preferred by many tyre manufacturers for high-performance models because of their greater stability.

The metal cap also has a small rubber seal that additionally protects the valve from dirt and water. "Because even small water particles can affect the seal of the valve."

Finally, the tyre expert warns motorists not to trust their car's assistance systems too much when it comes to tyre pressure. Monitoring systems by no means replace regular air pressure checks on your tyres. The systems usually only alert the driver when the pressure is reduced by 20%.


Sg Buloh overhead bridge restaurants closed for sanitation work, says PLUS

                PETALING JAYA: The Sungai Buloh overhead bridge restaurants have been temporarily closed starting today to allow sanitation works to be carried out, says Plus Malaysia Berhad (PLUS).

In a tweet today, PLUS said the restaurant complex is scheduled to reopen at 6pm on May 12.

PLUS also assured that petrol stations there would not be affected by the closure and will continue operating as usual.

“The Sungai Buloh overhead bridge restaurants (both ways) will be temporarily closed beginning May 9 and is scheduled to reopen at 6pm on May 12.

“The petrol stations, however, will continue operating as usual.”

The restaurants there are among the premises listed in the Hotspots Identification for Dynamic Engagement (HIDE).

Senior Minister (Security) Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob said on Saturday that all premises listed in HIDE would have to close for three days.

There were 151 hotspots identified in the first HIDE system list, mainly comprising shopping malls around the country as well as restaurants and markets.

National Covid-19 Immunisation Programme Coordinating Minister Khairy Jamaluddin had previously said all premises and locations in the HIDE system are not Covid-19 clusters but have the potential to turn into one if pre-emptive action is not taken.


Embattled parent of BMW's China partner names new chairman

Flags with the logo of BMW fluttering at the venue of a ground breaking ceremony for a new BMW assembly plant, inside the BMW Brilliance Plant Tiexi, in Shenyang in 2018. — Reuters
BEIJING: Shen Tiedong has been named as chairman of Huachen Group, parent of BMW's China partner Brilliance Auto, according to a Brilliance Auto wechat post today.

Huachen is standing on the brink of bankruptcy, defaulting on billions of yuan in debt obligations.

Chinese regulators have launched an investigation into possible violations of disclosure laws by the company.

Brilliance makes vehicles with BMW in the north-eastern Chinese city of Shenyang. It also has a joint venture with Renault SA.

Yan Bingzhe, Huachen's former chairman, will step down, the post said. It did not offer details of how Huachen plans to repay the debts.


He who hesitates may be lost in China's electric car market

                HONG KONG: Thinking about trading in your gas guzzler in China for something battery powered and greener?

Those who hesitated to make the leap earlier have paid for it, with one manufacturer after another raising prices. Indecision could be even more costly going forward.

A slew of automakers are demanding more money to cover the higher cost of raw materials.

Tesla, BYD, Xpeng and Li Auto are just some that have raised prices in March. Tesla’s Model Y Performance now costs 417,900 yuan (RM277,000) after two price hikes in less than a week totalling 30,000 yuan (RM20,000).

Some of Xpeng’s cars are as much as 20,000 yuan (RM13,215) more expensive now. And a BYD model will set you back another 6,000 yuan (RM3,972), after a 7,000-yuan (RM4,634) increase in January.

Among the biggest holdouts is Nio, which said last week it won’t be raising prices in the short term. Let’s not forget China has been offering subsidies since 2009 as a carrot for those willing to become early adopters. It’s certainly worked.

Last year, around 3 million new-energy vehicles, which includes plug-in hybrids, were sold. That’s expected to rise to 5.7 million units this year, according to BloombergNEF. But here’s the rub: subsidies have already been cut by 30% this year and will be gone by the end of 2022.

If consumers are on-the-fence, they may want to rethink that indecision. The combined effect of the most recent hike means Tesla’s standard-version Model Y in China now costs 316,900 yuan (RM210,000).

That’s a 15% increase from five months ago when it was previously eligible for the subsidy.

Tesla’s cheapest China-made car - and one that is still eligible for a subsidy - is the Model 3. That costs 279,900 yuan (RM186,000) after discounts, still 44,000 yuan (RM29,128) more than in November last year.

Once China stops all subsidies, that Model 3 will cost 290,888 yuan (RM193,000), assuming Tesla doesn't change its current pre-subsidy price. That would be a 23% uplift in a little more than a year.

BNEF reckons more generally that EV prices remain expensive globally and need to fall around 25% to boost adoption.

At least in China, plentiful makers, models and price points - including one of the country’s best-sellers, the entry level Wuling Hongguang Mini that costs less than 30,000 yuan - can still pull in new buyers.

Morgan Stanley however says EV makers will need to raise prices by 15%, citing the cost pressures on battery suppliers as Chinese prices for lithium carbonate spiral.

The US investment bank warns of demand destruction, saying substantially higher prices may have a potential negative impact.

The net effect of price rises probably won’t show materially in EV monthly sales numbers.

But the point is these cars are unlikely to cost less down the road, considering automakers’ willingness to raise prices on a whim and with subsidies fast fading.

Car buyers may be delaying any EV purchase at their peril.


Japan asks US for equal treatment in electric-vehicle policy

                TOKYO: Japan joined the European Union in calling planned US aid for local electric-vehicle manufacturers "discriminatory” and demanded equal treatment for the nation’s car makers.

The country’s automakers may hesitate to invest in the electrification of vehicles in the world’s largest economy if the US offers "discriminatory incentives” to local manufacturers, Japan’s government said in a statement dated last Friday.

"This could cause negative impacts on the expansion of investment and employment in the US,” it said in the statement.

A multinational dispute has been raging over the recently passed US Inflation Reduction Act and subsidies to be provided through it to support green technologies in the country. The EU, South Korea and other trading partners see the aid as unfair.

The US should give Japan "treatment no less favourable” than North American countries regarding requirements concerning the final assembly of autos, critical minerals used for them, and their battery components, according to the statement.

The requirements of the electric vehicles tax credit are "not consistent” with the US and Japan’s shared policy to work with allies and like-minded partners to build supply chains, the Japanese government said.

They "preclude Japanese businesses from enjoying the benefit,” it said.

Japan has submitted these demands to the US Treasury Department and Internal Revenue Service in response to a request for comments on Credits for Clean Vehicles.


Volvo and Varjo launch worlds-first mixed-reality application

                STOCKHOLM: Volvo Cars and Varjo - a Finnish maker of high-end augmented-reality headsets, have together created a world-first mixed-reality approach to evaluating prototypes, designs and active safety technologies.

The collaboration will be further strengthened by the Volvo Cars Tech Fund’s decision to invest in Varjo.

The Tech Fund is Volvo’s venture capital fund, which invests in high-potential technology start-ups.

The two companies have made it possible for the first time to drive a real car while wearing a mixed-reality headset, seamlessly adding virtual elements or complete features that seem real to both the driver and the car’s sensors, for development purposes.

Until now, no other car maker has been able to do this.

The Varjo XR-1 headset, launched today, provides photorealistic mixed or virtual reality at a high-definition resolution better than anything currently available. As such, the XR-1 can radically reduce development timeframes by creating the new ability to evaluate features and designs almost immediately.

Compared with its predecessor, the XR-1 adds high-definition cameras to the headset and enables mixed reality. This allows Volvo Cars’ designers and engineers to ‘drive’ future cars and evaluate all features in a simulation environment many years before they exist, enabling the company to develop the safest cars with the most refined user experience possible.

“With this mixed-reality approach, we can start evaluating designs and technologies while they are literally still on the drawing board. Instead of the usual static way of evaluating new products and ideas, we can test concepts on the road immediately. This approach offers considerable potential cost savings by identifying priorities and clearing bottlenecks much earlier in the design and development process,” said Volvo Cars chief technology officer Henrik Green.

The XR-1 also allows Volvo Cars’ engineers to develop and evaluate active safety solutions much easier. Safety experts are able to drive real cars while wearing the XR-1 headset at Volvo’s research facilities in Sweden, testing virtual active safety systems imposed via augmented reality on the real-life environment.

Highly accurate eye-tracking technology embedded inside the XR-1 makes it easy to assess how drivers use a new functionality and whether they are distracted in any way. This technology-based approach to measuring distraction levels ensures that Volvo Cars can develop new features without causing additional distraction.

“From the very beginning, our vision has been to create a product that can seamlessly merge the real and the virtual together. The incredibly advanced ways in which Volvo Cars uses the XR-1 show that Varjo’s technology enables things that have been previously impossible. Together with Volvo, we have started a new era in professional mixed reality,” said Varjo founder and CEO Niko Eiden.

 Volvo Cars and Varjo launch world-first mixed reality application for car development

Volvo Cars is a trailblazer within the car industry in using augmented and virtual reality in its design and development work. The partnership with Varjo is the latest and most advanced manifestation of the company’s strong position in this area. Volvo Cars believe in the power of smart partnerships with leading tech companies to develop next-generation technologies.

“Varjo is a clear leader in its field. The company’s technology promises a lot for the future, but also offers clear applications already today for Volvo Cars. Varjo is a textbook example of the type of companies we seek to invest in,” said Volvo Cars Tech Fund CEO Zaki Fasihuddin.

The Varjo XR-1 headset and Volvo Cars’ application of the technology are demonstrated as of today at the Augmented Reality World Expo in Santa Clara, California. A patent has been filed for the application of the technology.


Honda and Suzuki unveil new bikes

                PETALING JAYA: It was a good week for the motorcycling community as Honda and Suzuki unveiled new fuel-injected two-whellers.

On Tuesday, Honda introduced the EX5 Dream FI, which is equipped with the PGM-FI technology.

The air-cooled 109.17cc engine with a compression ratio of 9 to 1 is said to offer better fuel efficiency compared to its now discontinued predecessor.

 Honda EX5 FI.

“The EX5 FI is a considerable upgrade from the EX5 110 launched two years ago.

“It is a product I can recommend with full confidence as the specifications of the FI model is based on customer requirements,” aid Boon Siew Honda Sdn Bhd managing director and CEO Koji Onishi at the event.

According to Onishi, the four-speed bike promises a smooth ride, and is expected to be warmly received by the Malaysian market.

The kickstart version of the EX5 FI goes for RM4,299, while the automatic starter version it at RM4,529, without GST.

Two days later, Suzuki Assemblers Malaysia Sdn Bhd gave the media a preview of its Suzuki Address (yes, you read it correctly!), a continuously variable transmission- based scooter that comes with a spacious 20.6-litre underseat storage, which is an important selling point given more and more riders are opting for full-faced helmets.

The 113cc Address also comes with a rear brake lock mechanism to enhance parking safety, something like a handbrake for two-wheelers.

Other selling points of the very manoeuvrable ride include tubeless tyres mounted on cast aluminium wheels, and a rather large 5.2-litre fuel tank.

According to Suzuki Assemblers managing director Toru Kobayashi, Suzuki was responsible for creating the scooter market for Malaysia when it launched the V100 in 1992.

“In 2012, it launched the 115cc NEX, and this model is now one of the best-selling scooters here,” he said during at he launch at the Shah Alam Kart Circuit.

Retailing at RM4,788 without GST, the Address is the first Suzuki scooter here which adopts an advanced fuel injection system, which could give up to 53kpl, which in this case, could theoretically wring out 276km on a full tank.

The air-cooled engine is compressed at a ratio of 9.4 to one to yield a maximum power of 6.9kW, though no torque figures were supplied.

More details on Honda EX5-Fi

Suzuki Address


Ford spices up Fiesta and Focus

                COLOGNE (Germany): Ford unveiled its latest beefed-up Fiesta with the ST200 and a sporty option for the Fiesta and Focus models that come with a ST-Line application.

To celebrate Ford's 40-year anniversary of the Fiesta, the company with the blue oval logo will debut a more powerful version of the ST200 - making it the most powerful production Fiesta to date.

The compact hot hatch is ready for orders, priced at £22,745 (RM140,000) in the UK, and brings with it a 10% extra power at 200PS and 20% more torque at 290Nm from its tuned-up 1.6-litre EcoBoost petrol engine with an additional 15PS and 30Nm of torque available for up to 20 seconds with its transient overboost. The ST200's predecessor - the Fiesta ST made 182PS and 240Nm of torque.

This allows the ST200 to sprint to 100kph from standstill in 6.7 seconds and onwards to a top speed of 230kph.

To handle the added performance better Ford Performance fitted the ST200 with a retuned suspension and steering for better ride and handling characteristics.

Production of the ST200 begins this month with deliveries starting soon after and the production line has also added an additional exclusive specification such as Storm Grey to its exterior colours as well as machined matt black alloy wheels and special interior detailing.

It comes with a revised front spoiler, side-skirts, body-colour rear diffuser element and large rear roof spoiler, LED day-time running lights

Other improvements include a rear twist-beam with 27% more roll-stiffness and a front anti-roll bar that's been increased to 21mm from 19mm diameter support revised damper specifications for better impact absorption that lowers the ride-height by 15mm than standard Fiesta models.

Power steering settings for the ST-specific 13.69:1 sharpened steering ratio with a shortened steering arm and modified steering knuckle are further revised for improved steering feel and feedback on centre.

There is also Enhanced Torque Vectoring Control (eTVC) system which applies some brake force to the inside front wheel when cornering to improve road holding by reducing understeer without affecting speed.

The three-mode Electronic Stability Control (ESC) system provides full system intervention; wide-slip mode with limited intervention; and full ESC de-activation.

It also receives a larger tandem brake master cylinder over standard Fiesta models for its red painted callipers that bite down on the partially obscured 278mm (front) and 253mm (rear) disc brakes by the 17-inch wheels.

Inside, there's partial leather Charcoal Recaro front seats with silver stitches, as are the seatbelts, illuminated scuff plates with an incorporated ST200 logo, carbon fibre dashboard inserts, alloy-metal pedals and shifter, an ST-specification steering wheel and headliner with silver effect detailing.

The list of amenities include Ford’s SYNC voice-activated communications and entertainment system with five-inch display, a sound symposer that channels the engine note to the cabin, MyKey that allows owners to set maximum speed, audio volume limits and ensure that safety features are not disabled when allowing others the use of their car.

“The Fiesta ST is truly beloved by owners and critics. The ST200 takes this special drivers’ car to a new level of power and performance, We think it’s a future classic in the making,” said Ford Europe product development vice president Joe Bakaj.

Also available for order are the Fiesta ST-Line and Focus ST-Line for the European market, priced from £15,645 (RM94,000) and from £20,595 (RM123,570) respectively in the UK, which brings with it a sporty styling that's been inspired by Ford Performance.

Both ST-Line models offer budding owners with sporty upgrades that include a sports suspension, trapezoidal front grille with honeycomb design, fog lamps with dark surrounds, front bumper lip spoiler (Fiesta ST Line), bumper insert (Focus ST-Line), rear diffuser, roof spoiler, black beltline beneath the windows, side-skirts and ST-Line exterior badging on the front wings.

With a 10mm-lower ride-height, the list of goodies continue with 17-inch alloy wheels for the Fiesta in Rock Metallic Grey for both Fiesta and Focus ST-Line models, as well as sport seats with red stitching, perforated leather ST-style steering wheel with grey stitching, ST-style gear knob, a dark woven headliner and ST-Line scuff plates.

The new Fiesta ST-Line comes with three- petrol engine choices of a 100PS, 125PS or 140PS 1.0-litre EcoBoost engine mated to a five-speed manual transmission, while a 95PS 1.5-litre TDCi diesel with a five-speed manual transmission rounds off the list.

The Focus ST-Line's engine options start with the 125PS 1.0-litre EcoBoost and is followed by a choice of 150PS or 182PS 1.5-litre EcoBoost for the petrol range.

The diesel range includes a 1.5-litre TDCi diesel with 120PS and a 2.0-litre TDCi with 150PS providing a choice of either a six-speed manual or six-speed PowerShift automatic transmission with paddle-shifters.

“The new Fiesta ST-Line and Focus ST-Line will offer customers a chance to enjoy the famous fun-to-drive characteristics and great looks of Ford’s performance models in an exciting and affordable package with a broad range of petrol and diesel engines – and we will be introducing two further models later in the year,” said Ford of Europe marketing, sales & service vice president Roelant de Waard.


Air bag maker Takata to file for bankruptcy this month, say sources

                NEW YORK/WASHINGTON: Takata Corp, the Japanese company facing billions in liabilities stemming from its defective air bag inflators, is preparing to file for bankruptcy as early as next week as it works towards a deal for financial backing from US auto parts maker Key Safety Systems Inc, sources said on Thursday.

Takata, one of the world's biggest automotive suppliers, has been working for months to complete a deal with Key Safety.

A person briefed on the matter said Key was expected to acquire Takata assets as part of a restructuring in bankruptcy.

The Nikkei business daily reported that a new company created under Key will buy Takata operations for about 180 billion yen (US$1.6 billion) and continue supplying air bags, seat belts and other products, leaving liabilities behind in a separate entity.

Takata declined to comment. Michigan-based Key, owned by Chinese supplier Ningbo Joyson, did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

The Tokyo Stock Exchange said on Friday it had suspended trading in shares of Takata following media reports of preparations for a bankruptcy filing. At its previous close, it had a market value of US$360 million.

Also at stake is US$850 million owed by Takata to major global automakers under a settlement agreed to earlier this year stemming from the automotive industry's largest ever safety recall.

Sources familiar with the matter said a final deal with Key may not be reached before Takata files for bankruptcy. The company plans to begin proceedings in both the United States and Japan, the sources said.

Major global car manufacturers have expressed concern about the company filing for bankruptcy without a deal in place because of disruption it could cause to the production of replacement air bag inflators. More than 65 percent of 46.2 million recalled Takata air bag inflators in the United States have not been repaired.

A US judge said earlier this year the costs of replacing all of the faulty Takata inflators could be US$8 billion.

Takata inflators can explode with excessive force, unleashing metal shrapnel inside cars and trucks.

In January, Takata agreed to plead guilty to criminal wrongdoing and to pay US$1 billion to resolve a US Justice Department investigation into ruptures of its air bag inflators linked to at least 16 deaths worldwide. They also have been blamed for more than 180 injuries worldwide.

A federal grand jury in January indicted three former Takata executives for criminal wrongdoing in connection with the safety defect.

Takata has already paid a US$25 million fine and US$125 million to a victims' compensation fund, including for future incidents.

Takata has until early 2018 to pay the US$850 million owed to automakers, or within five days of securing a financial backer.

Then-US Attorney Barbara McQuade said in January that if Takata filed for bankruptcy, the Justice Department would be a creditor in the restructuring.

Key was chosen by Takata earlier this year as the favoured buyer for the company. Since then, Key has been working with Takata on a restructuring plan.

Inflator recalls began around 2008 and involve around 100 million inflators around the world used in vehicles made by 19 automakers, including Honda Motor Co, Ford Motor Co, Volkswagen AG and Tesla Inc. Recalls are to continue through at least the end of 2019.

Last month, four automakers including Toyota Motor Corp agreed to a US$553 million settlement to address class-action economic loss claims covering owners of nearly 16 million recalled vehicles with Takata inflators.


Honda to dish up CR-V hybrid with 800hp

                LOS ANGELES: A Honda CR-V with 800hp? It's unimaginable — until now.

The creative minds of the engineers at Honda Performance Development (HPD) and Auto Development Center (ADC), and designers from North America Auto Design Division of American Honda have built the ultimate high-performance beast – the Honda CR-V Hybrid Racer project vehicle – a track monster with some 800 electrified horsepower.

The car is a radical departure from the road car, sporting a extremely lightened widebody through the generous use of carbon fibre. The front doors open butterfly-style, while the rear doors don't open but is fused with the rear half-section to lift up  as a one-piece structure as shown in one of the pictures below.

The CR-V Hybrid Racer will be revealed on Feb 28.

HPD is a wholly owned subsidiary of American Honda Motor Co., Inc. and leads all of Honda and Acura's high-performance racing programs in North America.

It specialises in the design and development of powertrains, chassis, electronics, performance parts, technical support, and race support.

It has a long history of creating, manufacturing, and supporting Honda Racing and Acura Motorsports customers since 1993.


Sea metals for electric car batteries

                VANCOUVER: Scientists are urging countries to go green by mining polymetallic nodules from the seas as they’re effectively an EV (electric vehicle) battery in a rock.

Polymetallic nodules are made of almost 100% usable minerals and contain no toxic levels of deleterious elements, compared to ores mined from the land which have increasingly low yields (often below 1%) and often do contain toxic levels of deleterious elements.

This means that producing metals from nodules has the potential to generate almost zero solid waste and no toxic tailings, as opposed to terrestrial mining processes which produce billions of tonnes of waste and can leak deadly toxins into soil and water resources.

This is part of the findings from a study commissioned by the DeepGreen exploration company, which examined how to source the massive amount of mineral resources required for a wholesale move away from fossil fuels with the least amount of damage to the planet.

“Ocean nodules are a unique resource to consider at a time when society urgently needs a good solution for supplying new virgin metals for the green transition. Extraction of virgin metals—from any source—is by definition not sustainable and generates environmental damage. It’s our responsibility to understand the benefits — as well as the damages associated with sourcing base metals from nodules,” said Gerard Barron, DeepGreen chairman and CEO.

In recent months DeepGreen has continued its push to disrupt the minerals industry and re-shape how critical battery metals are sourced, processed and ultimately recycled, through several key milestones.

In October, DeepGreen derived its first metal from polymetallic nodules in a processing lab, and in March, the company’s partner Allseas acquired a former drill ship to convert to a polymetallic nodule collecting vessel.

Earlier this month, the company announced the acquisition of Tonga Offshore Mining Limited (TOML), giving DeepGreen access to a third seabed contract area in which to explore for battery metals with significantly lower environmental and social impact.


Journey-sharing app Jaunt wins Ford Smart Mobility Game Challenge

                BARCELONA: A new app that could make journeys more efficient, more sociable and help to alleviate congestion has been announced the winner of the Ford Smart Mobility Challenge. The creators of journey-sharing app Jaunt were on Wednesday presented with the €10,000 (around RM47,000) top prize at Mobile World Congress here.

Developed by Ilya Zarembsky and Betsy Medvedovsky, in New York, the Jaunt app enables users to both create journeys and join those created by others for fastest journeys or more scenic routes. An interactive map enables users to filter available “jaunts” by transport mode, location and time, and discover more about their fellow travellers. Sharing trips, the use of different traffic modes, and motivating travellers to use alternative routes will help to ease the pressure on main traffic routes and improve the flow of traffic in city areas.

Judges for the Ford Smart Mobility Challenge came from Ford, Cologne Game Lab, USC Games Program, Cologne International School of Design, and Turn 10 Studios.

Gamification has proven to be an effective way to solve real-life problems in many areas, including the search for a cure for AIDS, and the knowledge from the challenge could lead to innovative solutions and new approaches to integrating urban transport, as well as encouraging positive commuter behaviour.

“Game developers have an impressive track record in taking new ways of looking at real-world problems and coming up with fresh solutions, and that is exactly what we wanted to tap into for the Ford Smart Mobility Game Challenge,” said Ken Washington, vice president, Ford Research and Advanced Engineering.

“Jaunt is the perfect example of just such a disruptive approach. Avoiding busy routes by connecting travellers to share trips could help to reduce congestion through ride-sharing, and makes lives better by helping people to enjoy journeys more – whether travelling by car, bicycle, public transport, or on foot.”

Ford Smart Mobility is the company’s plan to be a leader in connectivity, mobility, autonomous vehicles, the customer experience and data and analytics. Looking for new and innovative ways to solve global transportation issues is integral to Ford’s transformation into an automotive and mobility company, with latest developments outlined by Ford president and CEO Mark Fields earlier this week.

Ford also has embraced gamification to accelerate the development of autonomous technologies and to enhance the Ford ownership experience.

Runner-up SelfieGo, an app designed to make journeys by bicycle and on foot more appealing, and third-placed Flux, an app designed to alleviate congestion through the gamification of traffic jams, were awarded a further €7,500 prize money. Developed with Cologne Game Lab and launched last year at Gamescom, the largest interactive games trade fair in Europe, the Ford Smart Mobility Game Challenge invited developers to create game concepts that could solve real-life problems in urban mobility.


Myanmar man held for purposely running into oncoming traffic

                PETALING JAYA: A 25-year-old Myanmar national was detained in connection with a viral video showing a man purposely running into traffic.

North Klang OCPD Asst Comm S. Vijaya Rao said the man was detained at Jalan Shahpadu Rantau Panjang, Klang today.

"The suspect will be remanded for further investigation.

"We are investigating under Section 336 of the Penal Code for causing endangerment," he said when contacted today.

The viral 45-second video was previously shared on social media along with a message warning people to be careful of a man purposely running into traffic.

ACP Vijaya Rao had said the video showed an accident at Jalan Goh Hock Huat in Klang at 12.08pm on April 7.

"A man lodged a police report saying that an unknown man had suddenly crossed the road and flung himself onto his car's windshield.

"The pedestrian, who suffered minor injuries, left the location when told that the victim's car was equipped with a dashcam," he said when contacted.


Sime Darby Auto ConneXion unveils the Live the Range Life branding

                KUALA LUMPUR: Sime Darby Auto ConneXion (SDAC), the sole distributor for Ford in Malaysia, has unveiled a new brand positioning – Live the Ranger Life – which celebrates the Ranger’s evolution into the modern lifestyle truck that it is today.

The new brand essence encapsulates the values and persona of the Ranger, which has transformed over the years beyond being just a truck for work to one that enables every need and lifestyle choice of a diverse range of customers.

SDAC managing director Turse Zuhair said Live the Ranger Life personified how the Ranger is more than a purely utilitarian workhorse.

“It is now leading the pack as a versatile and premium truck that is increasingly purchased for lifestyle reasons that people aspire to own.

“Customers are choosing to purchase a Ranger not just for work, but also for play and family, thanks to its renowned strength, engineering capabilities, smart technologies, luxurious cabin and passenger vehicle features,” he said.

The five tenets expressing the “Live the Ranger Life” spirit gathered through a global customer survey conducted by Ford across its markets are: “We Make Our Own Fun” (fun in driving and in living), “Up and Over” (tackling challenges), “Bring Others Along the Journey” (family and friends), “Can’t Help but Help” (assistance to others) and “Carve Our Own Path” (being bold and fearless in life).

To enhance the lifestyle focus, SDAC is also getting ready to launch its Lifestyle Ford Merchandise store on its e-commerce enabled website.

For a seamless shopping experience, customers can browse for the available merchandise and make their purchases using their preferred payment mode including online banking, credit and debit card, or e-wallets anytime and from anywhere.

They can also arrange for the items to be delivered to their desired address.

Other exciting first in-market programmes in the local pickup segment will also be launched in the coming months.

To keep abreast with the latest offerings under this new brand expression, visit www.sdacford.com.my or follow the Ford Malaysia Facebook, Instagram and YouTube channel.


Takata won't set aside more cash reserves for recalls, says official

                TOKYO/BEIJING: Takata Corp will not set aside more cash to pay for an expanding car recall linked to its air bag inflators because the defect cited by automakers was not "officially recognized," analysts cited its chief financial officer as saying.

Takata CFO Yoichiro Nomura was speaking to analysts Thursday at a company briefing that was closed to the media, but two analysts told Reuters the executive said he saw no reason to set aside more cash.

Nomura also said Takata had asked automakers to accept installment payments from the supplier for recall costs, according to the analysts who spoke with Reuters.

Earlier, Honda Motor Co and Daihatsu Motor Co said they would recall more than 5 million cars to replace potentially fatal air bag inflators made by Takata, a day after Toyota Motor Corp and Nissan Motor Co said they were taking back 6.5 million vehicles.


Watch Audi e-tron prototypes stamp their mark in Kalahari Desert

                WINDHOEK (Namibia): Four Audis, a drone and a desert. If you must, call it trivial pursuit but Audi engineers recently set out to create four giant rings in the desert sand, which reminded us of the Jaguar publicity stunt on a Welsh beach we told you about on Monday.

The outing called for precise co-ordination of the four e-tron prototypes in the vast expanse of the Kalahari Desert. Needless to say, the engineers didn't get it right the first time.

They finally got the Audi logo imprint right on the second try and this was done in 30s. Quite a neat trick really, which Audi was eager to share in the clip below that was posted up on YouTube last week.


Volvo expands XC40 range with first 3-pot petrol engine

                LONDON: Volvo has expanded its XC40 premium compact SUV range, strengthening the appeal of the reigning European Car of the Year with new powertrains and trim levels.

The new powertrains are led by the debut of the much-anticipated T3 petrol - Volvo's first ever three-cylinder engine and the latest addition to the Swedish brand's Drive-E engine family.

The T3 is ideally suited to the XC40's role as a nimble and efficient, urban-friendly vehicle with its compact 1.5-litre, direct-injection unit that produces 156hp at 5,000rpm and 265Nm of torque from 1,850 to 3,850rpm.

Furthermore, the engine is matched to a six-speed manual transmission, while an eight-speed automatic option will be introduced at a later date.

This little T3 petrol engine gives the littel XC40 compact SUV the ability to tow up to 1.6 tonnes with a braked trailer, yet dispatch 0-100kph sprint in 9.4 seconds, have a combined fuel economy of up to 45.6mpg (5.16L/100km) and carbon dioxide emissions from 144g/km.

The latest T3 petrol now forms up the ranks of its other XC40 compact SUV brethren in England that include the 2.0-litre, four-cylinder T4 petrol and D3 diesel engines.

The XC40 range also now offers a full spectrum of equipment grades: Momentum, R-Design and Inscription, each with an optional 'Pro' upgrade.

The standard equipment featured on Momentum model includes the Sensus 9.0-inch touchscreen control with smartphone connectivity and satellite navigation, automatic LED headlights with Active High Beam, 18-inch alloy wheels and a dual-zone climate control system that monitors and maintains cabin air quality.

Also included is the Volvo On Call remote control and emergency assistance service that comes as standard together with keyless entry with push-start button, rear parking sensors, cruise control, automatic wipers and integrated roof rails.

As for the R-Design models, these have been distinguished by exterior features such as a Black Stone roof and door mirrors, high-gloss black grille, front and rear skid plates, roof rails and window frames, dark-tinted rear windows, integrated dual tailpipes, and alloy wheels with a striking diamond-cut and matt-black finish.

The sporty theme continues inside with R-Design tread plates, black headlining, sports pedals and a perforated leather wrapping for the steering wheel and gearknob.

Equipment features include leather and Nubuck upholstery, front seat cushion extensions and LED front fogs, while offering a more dynamic suspension setting compared to stock and includes stiffer springs, thicker anti-roll bars and faster-acting rear shock absorbers.

The Inscription specification builds on the Momentum grade with contemporary luxury items including Driftwood cabin inlays, leather-faced upholstery, a power-adjustable driver's seat, ambient door and instrument panel lighting, and a powered tailgate.

An Orrefors crystal glass inset adds a special quality to the gearshift lever on automatic versions, front parking sensors, matt silver skid plates and chrome grille inserts are also part of the package.

The Pro versions of each grade introduce further comfort and convenience elements, including heated front seats, larger-diameter wheels (on R-Design Pro and Inscription Pro models), active bending headlights, LED front fogs with cornering function, and a heated windscreen.

A wide range of option and accessory packs are available for customers to individualise their XC40.

All models are available with the Intellisafe Pro pack, which includes Volvo's pioneering Pilot Assist driver-assistance system.

This provides steering, braking and acceleration control to help keep the car within its lane, and at a set speed or a safe distance from any vehicle ahead.

The full XC40 range, extending to 38 different combinations of engines, equipment grades and transmissions, is on sale now, with on-the-road prices ranging from £27,610 (RM146,115) for the T3 Momentum manual to £37,620 (RM200,000) for the T5 Inscription Pro automatic.


Panoz to offer self-healing paint on its sports cars

                ATLANTA: As our cities, towns and streets continue to get more and more congested with vehicles every year, inadvertent damage caused to vehicle paintwork through bumps and scrapes also becomes an increasingly common hassle.

And as insurance premiums are a real worry for many drivers, claiming for small scrapes and scratches isn't really an option as the cost of losing a no-claims bonus is higher than paying for a repair. But a small automaker in the United States has an answer to some of the problems, as Panoz has announced all its cars will soon get self-healing paint.

The luxury manufacturer of roadsters and coupes has partnered with another company called Feynlab to use its Self-Heal Plus coating on new Panoz paint jobs.

The coating is actually a memory polymer, and when it's scratched it can reform in its original configuration when it gets exposed to heat. It's claimed the coating works with light scratches and swirl marks, and these minor blemishes can be healed by simply leaving the car out in the sun, or by using a hair dryer.

Panoz is an independent manufacturer of luxury hand-crafted, custom, American sports cars founded by Daniel "Dan" Panoz in 1989. The company near here was the first US auto manufacturer to use super formed aluminium panels for the bodies of its cars and in 1995 created America's first Aluminium Intensive Vehicle (AIV), the Panoz AIV Roadster.

Dan's father, Don, decided to enter racing in 1997 to help promote his son's brand further, and today the company is a renowned manufacturer of luxury sports cars for the road and track.

Self-Heal Plus is now being applied as a standard feature on all Panoz cars, but it's not a cheap way of avoiding needing a season ticket at the body shop as Panoz cars start from US$159,000 (RM636,000).

The only major manufacturer to come up with anything even close to this has been Nissan, but the coating it demonstrated on the LEAF a couple of years ago was self-cleaning, and not self-healing.

Feynlab's Self-Heal Plus is available in Europe, but only through accredited "pro" level detailers. At the moment though, it appears to be sold out at every detailer accredited to offer it.


Sime Darby Auto Selection opens service centre to handle post-warranty vehicles

                PETALING JAYA: Sime Darby Auto Selection has opened its first ever service centre for multi-brand vehicles in Glenmarie, Shah Alam.

It is part of the company’s strategy to offer a new after-sales service alternative at a price point competitive with independent workshops for post-warranty vehicles.

Meant to complement existing after-sales service of all car brands, the company said owners with vehicles past their warranty period will be able to get the same quality of service provided by brand-specific authorised service centres.

It also said the service centre is fully equipped and has well-trained mechanics to handle car repairs and maintenance.

Apart from basic services such as engine oil replacement, tyre alignment and balancing, air-conditioner and car disinfection service, Sime Darby Auto Selection Service Centre also offers repairs, car washes and vehicle inspections.

The new service facility that measures 4,117 square feet houses a total of six service bays, a customer lounge equipped with free WiFi, coffee and tea-making facilities, as well as complimentary snacks. Those unable to personally send in their cars can also arrange for pick-up and delivery service.

Located at Lot 33, Temasya Industrial Park, Glenmarie, Shah Alam the Sime Darby Auto Selection Service Centre operates from 9am to 5pm Mondays to Fridays and 9am to 12.30pm on Saturdays. The centre is closed on Sundays.

To book a service, the customer must fill up his details at www.simedarbyautoselection.com.my and a service adviser will be in touch with them.

For more information on the new service centre or to book a service, customers can also call 03-4065 2502.


CarSifu Editors’ Choice Awards is back again!

                PETALING JAYA: For the second year running, the CarSifu Editors’ Choice Awards will honour the best passenger vehicles in the market, with the results to be announced On Oct 5 at a gala dinner at The Royale Chulan Damansara hotel.

This year, awards for 31 categories are up for grabs including “Car of the Year.”

Categories include Best Compact Hatch, Best Economy Car (1.0 to 1.5-litre), Best Mid-sized Car (C segment), Best Compact SUV/Crossover, Best Pick-Up Truck and Hybrid Vehicle of the Year.

Other categories include Business Car of the Year, Hybrid Luxury Car of the Year and Best Design. There will also be categories for petrol and diesel engines of the year.

The awards will honour outstanding cars for advancements and innovations in areas such as design, features and green technology.

READ MORE: BHPetrol and Silverstone partner CarSifu

These cars were evaluated in key areas such as safety, performance, comfort, fuel economy, handling, styling as well as their individual “wow” factor.

Vehicles shortlisted are from brands such as BMW, Chevrolet, Ford, Honda, Hyundai, Infiniti, Isuzu, Jaguar, Kia, Lexus, Maserati, Mazda, Mercedes-Benz, MINI, Mitsubishi, Nissan, Peugeot, Porsche, Proton, Renault, Toyota, Volkswagen, Volvo and Westar-Maxus.

The Honda Civic 1.5 TC Premium was crowned “Car of the Year 2016” at last year’s inaugural event.

Transport Minister Datuk Seri Liow Tiong Lai has been invited as the guest of honour for the gala dinner.

Some of the award-winning cars, along with several recently launched vehicles, will be presented at the CarSifu Auto Show 2017, to be held at Mid-Valley Megamall, Kuala Lumpur from Oct 25 till 29 .

Boustead Petroleum Marketing and Silverstone Marketing are Star Media Group’s partners in the awards and auto show.


GS Yuasa to double EV range with new battery from 2020, says daily

                TOKYO: Japan's GS Yuasa Corp will begin mass-producing as early as in 2020 a new lithium-ion battery that would double the range of electric vehicles while keeping prices steady, the Nikkei business daily reported today.

The new battery, to be developed by a joint venture with Mitsubishi Corp and Mitsubishi Motors Corp, will be supplied to Japanese and European automakers, the paper said.

Current electric vehicles (EVs), which use lithium-ion batteries, need 20-30 minutes to recharge even with fast chargers and typically have a range of just 300-400km.


Fiat Chrysler and Peugeot speed up work to close merger

The logos of car manufacturers Fiat and Peugeot are seen in front of dealerships of the companies in Saint-Nazaire, France. — Reuters
PARIS: Working groups at car makers Fiat Chrysler (FCA) and Peugeot’s owner PSA are speeding up work on closing their alliance deal despite the coronavirus crisis, PSA chief executive officer Carlos Tavares said in an internal note seen by Reuters.

Tavares also said in the note the working groups were also speeding up work on synergies.

The crisis triggered by the new coronavirus has virtually wiped out demand for new vehicles, pushing automakers to temporarily halt most production and leaving them needing cash.


Ford celebrates 10 millionth Mustang while banking on car's draw

                DETROIT: The Ford Mustang — an iconic American brand and a symbol of cool — will reach a major milestone Wednesday as the 10 millionth vehicle rolls off an assembly line at a Detroit-area plant.

The car celebrated in American song and film, and recognised the world over as an iconic American cultural export, will get a big party at Ford's Michigan headquarters.

It's a turning point for the carmaker, which is banking on the Mustang's wide appeal to help it grow global market share.

US sales of the Mustang are dropping, but they are accelerating overseas in markets such as China and Germany.

To celebrate the Mustang milestone, Ford is appealing to the sense of nostalgia for what is seen as the original "freedom vehicle" that exemplified Americans' love of the open road. After all, the car was named after a horse that roams free in the American West.

"I can think of no other American car that captures the love affair with the automobile that Americans have had... like the Mustang," said automotive historian John Heitmann of the University of Dayton. "It is as American as one can have an American product."

&
'A freedom vehicle'

The Mustang once germinated an entire sub-genre of cars. From a technical standpoint, the original 1965 Mustang was not meant as a muscle car intended to attract those who gravitate to fast wheels.

It was in fact one of the original so-called "pony cars" — a smaller, affordable, practical sibling of flashy sports cars intended to appeal to young professionals, including women.

But the Mustang became an icon almost from the start, in no small part thanks to marketing that would rival a modern-day iPhone launch.

It debuted in the spring, at the 1964 New York World's Fair, far before other companies announced their latest offerings in the fall. It was hyped up in advance and automotive industry journalists were on hand.

Automotive historian Bob Merlis, at the time a teenager, witnessed the World's Fair launch.

"It was almost like pandemonium. People were so excited about this car," Merlis said.

"It was sort of a counterpoint to the very square, staid station wagon ethos that Americans grew up with in suburbia," he recalled. "It represented some kind of a freedom vehicle. It embodied that."

Wilson Pickett immortalised the car in "Mustang and Sally," a rhythm and blues classic of 1966.

Two years later, the American film star Steve McQueen drove a Mustang in the thriller "Bullitt" — cementing the car's cool factor.

It even captured the public imagination overseas, appearing in the 1966 Oscar-winning French film "A Man and a Woman" by Claude Lelouch.

Global draw

Ford has been playing up that nostalgic past. At this year's Detroit auto show, the company unveiled a new limited-edition Bullitt Mustang, along with McQueen's restored original.

For its celebration, Ford intends to highlight Mustang owners' loyalty to the brand by featuring the first Mustang ever purchased — still owned by the original buyer.

Mustang owners also have been known to form clubs and restore older models.

"Our intent is to have all 54 years represented," said Ford spokesman Jihan Cadiz. "For us, obviously it's a big day."

The Mustangs will parade from the company's headquarters in Dearborn, a Detroit suburb, to the Flat Rock plant where Mustang are assembled.

The celebration is part of a strategic decision by the American auto giant to focus heavily on the sporty icon.

Mustangs soon will be one of only two passenger cars from Ford — along with a crossover Focus — sold in North America. All other Ford offerings will be trucks and SUVs.

Ford sold only about 81,000 Mustangs in 2017, a mere 0.5 percent of the North American car market, according to Autodata. But Mustang sales are growing overseas.

Auto industry analyst Karl Brauer of Kelly Blue Book said Ford is banking on Mustang's pull as an American cultural symbol — even selling the vehicle well in places such as Germany, where there is a proud tradition of highly-engineered muscle cars.

"It sells extremely well globally," Brauer said. "So clearly, there's really a fan following."

Since Ford began exporting Mustangs in 2015, it has become the world's best-selling sports car.

The company also says the car is the best-selling coupe in China, which by 2025 is projected to have twice the share of the global car market compared to the United States.


Mobileye CEO sees 'great consolidation' ahead in autonomous car sector

Shashua says few players can go from silicon chips to self-driving systems. — Reuters
JERUSALEM: The autonomous car industry will have to consolidate because it is too difficult for separate companies to cooperate in developing self-driving vehicles, the head of Intel’s autonomous car unit said on Tuesday.

Amnon Shashua, CEO of Intel’s Israel-based Mobileye, said the strategy of having individual companies each focusing on one component, like safety, sensors or maps, is not sustainable because it’s an “end-to-end system” that cannot be broken down.

“It’s a formidable task, and there are going to be very very few actors who can go from silicon (chips) to self-driving systems,” Shashua said during an online conference by the Israel government-backed EcoMotion.

“Therefore, what we see in the industry and what will continue in the industry is a great consolidation,” he said.

Chipmaker Intel bought Israeli public transit app maker Moovit earlier this month for about US$900 million to help it develop self-driving “robotaxis” that could take to the streets in early 2022.

The countries expected to first get driverless robotaxis include Israel, South Korea, France and China. Test fleets with safety drivers inside the vehicle will begin to deploy later this year, Shashua said.

He said he believes commercial autonomous cars will be available in 2025.