Kia teases refreshed 2020 Cadenza with series of sketches

                SEOUL: On Kia's official Korean Facebook page earlier this week, the company posted a handful of sketches of what looks to be a facelifted Cadenza.

Though the Kia Cadenza was first produced back in 2009, the sedan wasn't introduced to the US until the 2014 model year; four years later and just in time for a major model refresh, Kia's Korean Facebook page published an album of four sketches depicting the 2020 K7, the name of the Cadenza in Korea.

Based on the images, Kia is bringing a more luxurious disposition to the model. Nearly all elements on the front end look to have been widened and become more angular: the grille, the headlights, and all components on the bumper.

While the rear end doesn't appear to have changed much, it looks like it has been squared out to further emphasise the new aggressive stance of the model.

Like the outside, the interior features cleaner contours that are no longer abruptly obstructed by various air vents, controls, or cup holders like in the 2019 version.

A larger touch screen has been set into a wood-trimmed dash above the center console which has been finished in a gloss black.

All versions of the 2019 Cadenza are powered by a 3.3-litre V6 engine that can generate 290hp, 344Nm of torque; therefore, it's likely that the 2020 model will be powered by the same engine or one very similar.

The base version of the 2019 Cadenza has a starting MSRP of US$33,100, so the price of the refreshed version will likely fall within the same ballpark.


Pre-sales begin in Europe for Volkswagen ID.4 GTX

                WOLFSBURG: Volkswagen has started taking pre-sale orders for the recently premiered all-electric Volkswagen ID.4 GTX high-performance variant.

Prices start from 50,415 euros in Germany, with customers being able to apply for a (net) subsidy of 7,500 euros.

As the first performance variant under the GTX label, the ID.4 GTX is said to be as sporty as a GTI and promises practical good sense combined with driving pleasure.

With GTX, Volkswagen is charging the world of electric mobility with new, intelligent sportiness that combines performance and sustainability.

The GTX is also part of Volkswagen's move towards its ‘Way to Zero’ objective to make the company net carbon-neutral by 2050.

Featuring an electric motor on each axle to deliver an output of 299PS (220kW), the ID.4 GTX is the first variant in the ID.4 line-up to get all-wheel drive.

The battery of the ID.4 GTX has a net energy content of 77kWh, enough for a customer-oriented range of 340km to 480km.

With a maximum charging capacity of 125 kW, the battery can be recharged quickly and can accelerates from 0 to 60kph in 3.2 seconds and from 0 to 100kph in 6.2 seconds.

The vehicle’s top speed is electronically limited to 180kph.

The standard Vehicle Dynamics Manager connects the optional adaptive chassis control with the XDS electronic axle differential lock and manages their interaction with maximum precision.

The design of the ID.4 GTX underscores its extraordinary character, combining driving pleasure with a robust look, drawing a connection to the Golf GTI.

The familiar light strip at the front has been combined with powerful, dynamic elements – in particular, the three honeycomb elements that form the daytime running lights.


MARA Liner signs deal for 27 MAN city buses

                KANGAR: MAN Truck and Bus (M) Sdn Bhd (MTBM) has signed a deal with MARA Liner Sdn Bhd, to expand the existing fleet of myBAS Perlis as well as provide after-sales service.

The new MAN buses are based on the MAN 14.280 HOCL two-axle chassis and was built in cooperation with a local body manufacturer.

myBAS Perlis is part of the Stage Bus Service Transformation Program enforced by Malaysia’s Land Public Transport Commission (SPAD) to provide better access to urban and rural communities.

The service commenced operations in 2015 and to-date covers six trunk routes and four feeder routes, carrying an average of 1,200 passengers daily.

The signing ceremony between MTBM and MARA Liner and the handover of the 27 units of MAN A80 City buses were held at MARA Liner Perlis, in the presence of Tan Sri Syed Hamid Syed Jaafar Albar, the chairman of SPAD, and witnessed by representatives of myBAS Perlis.

Hartmut Mueller, managing director of MAN Truck and Bus (M) Sdn Bhd said, “We are delighted that MAN buses are selected to provide a highly modern and safe public transportation for the myBAS program.”

The MAN A80 City bus for myBAS Perlis has a low entry design, making it extremely easy for passengers to board and exit, and can carry up to 41 passengers.

The 10-metre bus is powered by a 280hp diesel engine.

“The efficient fuel consumption and low life-cycle costs of MAN buses are among the main deciding factors for us when it comes to the vehicle of choice for the fleet expansion of myBAS Perlis,” said Zahrail Affenday bin Mohamed, chief operating officer of MARA Liner Sdn Bhd.

As part of the 5-year contract with MARA Liner, MTBM will also undertake to provide technical competency and knowledge transfer to MARA Liner Service Center in Alor Setar through various the train-the-trainer apprenticeship programs.

Both MARA Liner Service Centers in Alor Setar and Kuantan are MTBM’s appointed service dealers.


Carmakers worldwide are embracing electrification

                PARIS: Maserati's CEO has just announced that its brand's entire production will be electrified (hybrid or full-electric) by 2025.

The Italian carmaker joins a slew of other car companies who have announced that they will be ending their gasoline vehicle production sooner or later, keeping in mind that the end of production of internal combustion engine vehicles is not expected before 2040 at the earliest.

In terms of greener modes of transportation, the pioneering carmaker is Swedish: Volvo transitioned to full-electric or plug-in hybrid this year.

Meanwhile another company, France's DS, announced that by the year 2025, its entire fleet of new vehicles will offer an electrified version (hybrid or 100% electric).

Jaguar Land Rover's goal is to sell by 2025 around 300,000 electric vehicles a year before turning to 100% electric production. Fellow British brand Bentley will take more time and offer electric-only cars by 2030. Same for Porsche.

By 2022, more than half of the entire lineup of Fiat Chrysler Automobiles should be hybrid or electric.

BMW announced that gasoline cars will represent only half of its offer in 2021. The German automaker plans on offering at least 25 electrified models (comprising 13 full-electric) in its ranges by 2023.

In France, Renault has long been a full-electric vehicle pioneer, while Citroën plans on offering an electrified version of every new model it launches, be it plug-in hybrid for bigger vehicles or 100% electric for city cars. Peugeot has chosen a more distant deadline: 2030.

In Asia, some carmakers are focusing more on hydrogen energy. Brands like Toyota, Honda, Hyundai and Kia are developing fuel cell models.

Hydrogen fuel cell cars can be driven long distances with zero carbon emissions, the cars turning hydrogen and oxygen into electricity and water.


Ford introduces exoskeleton wearable to lessen worker fatigue, injury

                DEARBORN (Michigan): Imagine lifting a bag of flour or a watermelon over your head up to 4,600 times a day as part of your job – that is similar to what some Ford employees do every day as they work to build vehicles around the world.

Repetitive motions like those can lead to fatigue and injury for workers, but now Ford is rolling out a new wearable technology globally called EksoVest that helps reduce injury risk in some plant workers after a successful trial in two US plants.

Ford employees in 15 plants and seven countries around the world are able to use an EksoVest to help lessen the physical toll that their job takes on their body.

Ford partnered with Ekso Bionics to enhance this wearable technology that elevates and supports a worker’s arms while performing overhead tasks such as reaching up with a power tool to screw bolts to secure the car’s brace – all while standing underneath the vehicle.

“Building vehicles is physically a tough job,” said Bruce Hettle, Ford group vice president, Manufacturing and Labor Affairs. “We care about our employees and are trying to help them do their jobs with the least amount of wear and tear on their bodies possible.”


MSO recreates legendary Gulf livery for McLaren 720S

                LONDON: The in-house bespoke arm of luxury supercar maker McLaren Automotive, McLaren Special Operations (MSO), has unveiled a bespoke Gulf Oil-liveried McLaren 720S decked out with the brand’s racing colours.

The project is part of the renewed relationship announced last summer when McLaren confirmed Gulf’s return as an official strategic partner and a demonstration of the personalisation possibilities available on McLaren’s supercars

McLaren first partnered with Gulf in both Formula 1 and Can-Am from 1968 to 1973. The association was revived in the 1990s with the GTC Competition team’s legendary McLaren F1 GTRs, with victory in the 1996 BPR Global Endurance Series and the GT1 Class at the 24 hours of Le Mans in 1997.

Having reunited again in 2020, this year Gulf became the preferred lubricant supplier to McLaren Automotive, with all cars to be filled with Gulf oil and fuel optimised for high performance engines.

A limited number of customers will exclusively have the opportunity to have their McLaren supercars hand-painted by MSO in Gulf livery. The 720S revealed this week is the culmination of a joint project between MSO and Gulf to ensure a perfectly colour-matched range of paints in metallic and solid finishes that capture both of their unique identities.

Having trialled several iterations to create the perfect finish from McLaren Automotive paint technology partner AkzoNobel’s pallet of premium automotive paint hues, the definitive version alone is the product of 20 days of work by MSO’s craftsmen and women.

In addition to the iconic racing blue and orange colours, MSO has echoed the Gulf solid orange colour on the brake calipers, with the bespoke interior of this 720S featuring matching blue and orange stitching with Gulf logos embroidered on the headrests and painted on the sills.

The famous McLaren steering wheel incorporates a centre band to match the exterior stripe in Gulf solid orange and Gulf solid dark blue on the visual carbon fibre spokes.


Plight of car dealers struggling to stay open to be raised in Cabinet

                PETALING JAYA: At least 30% of independent car dealers under the Federation of Motor and Credit Companies Associations of Malaysia (FMCCAM) are at risk of closing permanently before 2022 as losses or lost business amounts to RM300mil, says Transport Minister Datuk Seri Dr Wee Ka Siong today.

He said he would raise the plight of new and used car dealers in the Cabinet soon.

He said not only the automotive industry need to be opened but its entire supply chain needed to resume operations, from showrooms to the factories that assemble the parts..

"I chaired an online meeting with several associations dealing with new and used motor vehicle sales today to listen to their feedback on how the government should reopen businesses in the upcoming phases of the National Recovery Plan (NRP)," Wee said in a Facebook post today.

He said while the government considers which sectors will be allowed to operate in the NRP’s second and third phases, businesses must conduct their activities in a safe manner, and ensure their employees and customers are fully vaccinated and continue to follow standard operating procedures at all times.

"This is the bare minimum obligation that all businesses must give in order for the government to be convinced it is safe enough to allow them to reopen.

"We are fully aware that the number of confirmed cases remains high, but the owners and employees of businesses and supply chains who are fully vaccinated are also on their last legs."

The discussion was joined by FMCCAM president Datuk Tony Khor, Malaysian Automotive Association president Datuk Aishah Ahmad, Honda Dealers Association Malaysia chairman Dato Mahfoz Hamid, Perodua Dealers Association Malaysia president Khairul Nizam Ayob, Toyota Dealers Council Malaysia president Simon Thong, and Proton Edar Dealers Association Malaysia president Liew Vee Lee.

Dr Wee was joined by Cabinet colleagues Deputy Education Minister Datuk Dr Mah Hang Soon and Deputy International Trade and Industry Minister Datuk Lim Ban Hong.


PLUS expects 1.6 million vehicles on highways for CNY peak days

                SUNGAI BULOH: The number of vehicles on PLUS highways is expected to increase significantly to 1.6 million daily on four peak days in conjunction with the Chinese New Year holidays.

PLUS Malaysia Bhd chairman Datuk Mohamad Nasir Ab Latif said the days are Jan 28, Jan 29, Feb 2 and Feb 5.

"We expect an increase of 17.4% of vehicles on the road over normal days," he said in his speech at the launch of the Ops Selamat Lunar New Year edition today.

PLUS traffic alerts will be issued through the @PLUSTrafik Twitter handle which has about 727,000 followers, he added.

"We will also put up the latest traffic information on electronic signage at strategic locations along the highways to enable road users to plan their journey," he said.

Mohamad Nasir said PLUS will also issue travel schedule advisories from Jan 28 until Feb 6 to help road users avoid being stuck in congestion.

"We urge everyone to plan their respective journeys based on the travel advisories. We hope more people will abide by the advisories as it will lead to much smoother traffic," he added.

On Ops Selamat, Mohamad Nasir said PLUS is grateful for its strategic partnership with the police in advocating road safety.

"We hope the latest operation will spur the public to prioritise safety on the road," he said.


Behold the world's fastest road-legal electric car

                LONDON: What do a Bugatti Veyron, Lamborghini Aventador, Mclaren 675LT, Porsche 911 Turbo S, Ferrari 488, a Tesla Model S and the latest generation Honda Acura NSX all have in common? They're all slower in a drag race than a modified yet road legal electric car from the early 1970s.

That's right, a ‘restomod' Enfield 800 nicknamed the Flux Capacitor by its owner, car journalist Jonny Smith, has just set a new world record for the fastest, road-legal plug-in electric car on a drag strip. It covered the standing quarter mile in just 9.86 seconds, accelerating from 0 to 182kph in six seconds and managing an average speed of 195kph over the course.

 Smith

In June, a team of students at ETH Zurich and Hochschule Luzern universities in Switzerland managed to get their high-tech electric prototype, the "Grimsel" to go from 0 to 100kph in 1.513 seconds, making it the fastest accelerating EV in history. But unlike the track-only Grimsel, the Flux Capacitor has doors, lights, a roof and meets regulations for highway use. In fact, to qualify to race, it first had to cover 42km on normal roads.

"I'm in awe of what this little yellow thing can cope with," said Smith. "Despite so many racers telling me that a 68-inch wheelbase car could never safely go as fast as we wanted, the Enfield has proved them wrong."

Under the skin, the Flux Capacitor differs from an original specification Enfield 800. It uses lithium ion batteries from a Bell Super Cobra attack helicopter and two DC 9-inch motors power the rear wheels. These upgrades mean the car delivers 800bhp and 1,627Nm of torque. Yet, the car's exterior is just as it was in 1973 when it first rolled off the production line.

"Originally the car was designed to drive up to speeds of 64kph. Now it triples the speed within quarter of a mile without any aerodynamic alterations - which is testament to the original design," said Smith.

Enfield was a pioneering electric car company based in the UK that history forgot. Built using tubular steel and aluminum, like modern sportscars, the tiny vehicles used lead-acid batteries and could cover roughly 80-145km on a charge. Nevertheless they promised an alternative to gasoline during the oil-scarce early 1970s. Interest was such that when one was shipped to the US for an electric vehicles symposium, then Governor Ronald Reagan was so excited by the Enfield that he wanted to build them in California.

But the problem was the cars cost too much and by 1976, after just over 100 working examples, the company and its cars were no more.

"I set out to build a British electric hot rod. I hope I've achieved something leftfield enough to prove that David certainly can beat Goliath," said Smith.


SUVs get parked in the sea, revealing scope of US auto market glut

                DETROIT: The length of almost two football fields, the cargo ship Jupiter Spirit arrived in Los Angeles’ harbour on April 24 after an almost three-week journey from Japan, ready to unload its cargo of about 2,000 Nissan Armada SUVs, Rogue crossovers and Infiniti sedans in a quick, half-day operation.

But when the ship, operated by Nissan Motor Co.’s freight arm, got about a mile offshore, its captain was ordered to drop anchor. And there the ship remained for almost a week - a floating symbol of an unprecedented logjam as nearby storage lots covering hundreds of acres overflowed with vehicles that Americans suddenly have little desire to buy.

There are gluts of all shapes and kinds forming in the US nowadays, a testament to the scope of the economic pain Covid-19 is inflicting.

Slaughterhouses are killing and tossing out thousands of pigs a day, dairy farmers are pouring away milk, oil sellers were paying buyers to take barrels off their hands last week, and now, brand-new cars are being left adrift at sea for days.

For the auto industry, which saw US sales plunge almost 40% in March, the crisis has left cars gathering dust on dealer lots, dealerships shuttered, auction prices slipping and tens of thousands of workers laid off or furloughed.

“Dealers aren’t really accepting cars and fleet sales are down because rental-car and fleet operators aren’t taking delivery either,” said John Felitto, a senior vice president for the US unit of Norwegian shipping company Wallenius Wilhelmsen.

“This is different from anything we’ve seen before. Everyone is full to the brim.”

The Jupiter Spirit’s shipment of vehicles was finally unloaded on April 29.

But the auto industry is typically a just-in-time business, which makes the delay at ports like Long Beach so unusual.

The majority of the quarter million cars imported from Japan last year came through West Coast ports, mostly via LA and Long Beach, according to IHS Markit PIERS data.

Some East Coast ports such as in Brunswick, Georgia, are experiencing higher-than-normal inventory, but industry officials say the main logjam is on the West Coast.

“It is very abnormal for a container ship, a car carrier or a cruise ship not to go right to the berth, discharge and be on their way,” said Kipling Louttit, executive director of the Marine Exchange of Southern California, a non-profit that monitors commercial ship traffic.

At the Long Beach terminal south of LA, cars are discharged at one of two piers - one with a 22-acre lot and another with 168 acres - that are capable of storing several thousand vehicles. They typically spend little time there before being relocated to larger storage lots some 12km away, where costs are lower, said Glenn Farren, director of tenant service and operations at the port. Then they’re gradually sent via truck or rail to dealers.

 New Nissan Rogue crossovers are parked on a trailer inside an auto terminal at the Port of Los Angeles on April 28. - Bloomberg

But last month’s sales collapse produced a chain-reaction backlog, causing some ships to divert to other ports, others to wait days to discharge cargo and, ultimately, others to cancel voyages before they even got underway.

The Port of Hueneme, a major import facility in Ventura County, California, had to find space in the surrounding area for about 6,000 surplus cars, in addition to the 4,000 on its site.

Auto-logistics firms secured lots at a nearby cold-storage facility and an adjacent US Navy base after scouring sites at local colleges emptied by the coronavirus.

“You can’t stack cars,” said Kristin Decas, the port’s director and chief executive officer. “We even looked at using the Ventura County Fairgrounds.”

Toyota has taken the precaution of leasing additional storage space at a sports venue in California, even though it hasn’t yet experienced major issues accepting deliveries from inbound vessels, a spokesman said.

A representative for Hyundai Motor Co. said the South Korean automaker also has experienced elevated West Coast inventories and found additional storage lots to ease pressure on port facilities.

Jupiter Spirit is operated by Nissan Motor Car Carrier Co., an affiliate of the Japanese carmaker and Mitsui O.S.K. Lines Ltd.

Nissan said the delays at Long Beach are a result of decreased demand amid the Covid-19 pandemic and that it does not currently have a timetable for clearing its vehicles from the port and secondary-storage lots.

“The company is optimising the flow of the vehicles and positioning them closer to dealers for quick availability when the market recovers and customers return to showrooms,” said Nissan spokesman Chris Keeffe.

Another car-carrying vessel, operated under lease by Japan’s Kawasaki Kisen Kaisha Ltd., arrived in LA on April 21 and discharged its cargo.

But the ship, the Morning Crystal, hung around for a week awaiting its next mission to Nagoya, Japan, which is atypical in a business where busy ships normally run routes back-to-back.

Even as ports struggle to cope with excess auto inventory, they’re preparing for an even worse outcome - deliveries stopping altogether as the recession digs deeper.

Demand for cars and trucks in the US is expected to drop 27% to 12.5 million vehicles this year, IHS Markit estimates, which would be the fewest for the industry since 2010.

Used-car prices are expected to plunge somewhere in the range of 8% to 16% through June, according to J.D. Power, then stabilise by year-end as the country reopens and demand picks back up.

Those sour predictions match up with what the Hueneme Port expects: at least a 25% drop in auto shipments in the coming year.

Auto-import logistics companies already have laid off about 80% of local staff in anticipation of a long dry spell, Decas said. Her port has only two car-carrying ships scheduled after May 17 compared with at least four or five a week in normal times, she said.

The port is fortunate in having another source of revenue, though. It’s a big importer of tropical fruit, like pineapples, avocados and especially bananas.

“People may not buy cars in a recession,” Decas said, “but they’ll eat a banana.”


Electronic parts maker FoundPac eyes auto parts manufacturing in 2021

                GEORGE TOWN: Foundpac Group Bhd, with RM51mil in net cash as of June 30, will venture into the production of critical automotive parts business in 2021.

Group chief executive officer C.H. Ong said the Penang-based group had planned to start its automotive critical parts business this year, but had to postpone it to 2021 because of the Covid-19 pandemic.

“The pandemic has slowed the demand for automotive parts and disrupted the production and exports in China and Europe.

“This has placed intense pressure on an industry already coping with a downshift in global demand, and likely to lead to an increase in merger and acquisition activity.

“For this reason, we are pursuing the manufacturing of automotive component business in 2021, ” he told StarBiz.

According to ReportLinker, a technology market research firm, the market size of global auto parts and accessories is expected to hit US$2.3 trillion by 2027, which translates to a 3% compounded annual growth rate (CAGR).

Ong said: “China, the world`s second largest economy, is forecast to reach a projected market size of US$474.8bil by 2027, growing at a 5.5% CAGR over the 2020-2027 period.

”Among the other noteworthy geographic markets are Japan and Canada, each forecast to grow at 0.8% and 2.2%, respectively, over the 2020-2027 period.

“Within Europe, Germany is forecast to grow at 1.4% CAGR.

“The growth potential of the automotive parts business is enormous, which is why we are venturing into it.”

According to Ong, the group had invested in 2019 the machinery and equipment to manufacture critical automotive parts.

“We are in the process of applying for the IATF 16949 certification (a global technical specification and quality management standard) that will qualify the group as a first and second-tier producer of critical automotive parts.

“These are parts used in, for example, the steering system of an automobile.

“We expect to get the IATF certification in the first half of 2021 and start commercial production in the second half. We have already gotten the licence to produce automotive parts and components from the Ministry of International Trade and Industry

“We are talking with European and Asian carmakers and expect to conclude the negotiations in 2021 that would establish the group as a supplier of automotive components.

FoundPac has vast experience in manufacturing precision machining parts, ” he said.

According to Ong, the group will also expand its presence in the 5G telecommunication segment.

Foundpac produces test sockets and stiffeners that are attached to semiconductor test equipment to check integrated circuits used in a wide range of 5G hardware, electronic home appliances, consumer electronics, automotive infotainment, and semiconductor products.

Ong said the global 5G infrastructure equipment market is expected to recover by 2023 due to the pandemic.

“This year the 5G infrastructure equipment market is expected to decline US$1.9bil from US$2bil in 2019.

“The market is expected to recover by 2023. North America was the largest region in the 5G infrastructure equipment market in 2019.

“Asia-Pacific is expected to be the fastest growing region between 2020-2030, ” Ong said.

According to The Business Company Research report, the decline is mainly due to economic slowdown across countries owing to the Covid-19 outbreak and the measures to contain it.

“The market is then expected to recover and reach US$9.37bil in 2023 at a CAGR of 70.16%, ” the report added.


Chery all set for Malaysian debut in July, two CKD SUVs offered

                KUALA LUMPUR: Chery is scheduled to start local assembly of the Tiggo 8 Pro and Omoda 5 in June followed by their launch in July to signal the Chinese brand's return to the Malaysian market.

The local plant would have a production capacity of 30,000 units per annum

As to who the local contract assembler is, Chery said it would be announced soon.

Media reports have speculated it could either be assembly units run by Sime Darby Motors or DRB-Hicom.
 Zhang.
The local assembly would involve localisation of components such as plastic parts, wheels and seat materials, Chery International executive vice president Charlie Zhang said at a media briefing here today.

He had arrived in Malaysia to finalise details on the local Chery operations before the official opening in July.

The Tiggo 8 Pro will be available at launch with a 2.0-litre, 4-cylinder petrol engine in either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive configuration. A plug-in hybrid combining a 1.5-litre turbo mill paired with two electric motors would likely arrive in 2024.

The 7-seat Tiggo 8 Pro should give the Proton X90 a good run for the money. The Proton SUV, also a 7-seater, is expected to launch by mid-2023.

As for the Omoda 5, Chery is expected to spec the 5-seat SUV with a 1.5l turbocharged powerplant though it's also available with a 1.6l turbo mill in other markets.

Malaysians can also look forward to the all-electric variant of the Omoda 5 coming after the first wave of combustion-engined SUVs.

Zhang expects the sporty and futuristic-looking Omoda 5 to be the volume seller, snapping up 60% of sales, while the Tiggo 8 Pro would account for the rest.

According to Zhang, the Tiggo 7 Pro would come later as Chery needed time to assess local requirements and configure it properly to give customers the most bang for the buck.

The B-segment Tiggo 4 Pro is also on the cards though no specific timeline has been given.

He said Chery would continue to sell combustion engine vehicles for as long as there is demand around the world.

Chery's first foray into Malaysia was almost 20 years ago but it didn't last as the products were not competitive enough and the customer ownership experience left much to be desired.

But that is now water under the bridge.

Just as in Indonesia, Chery’s return to Malaysia is because it says it has advanced to a point where it has attractive and competitive products to offer local customers.

Its strategy is to offer its internal combustion-engined cars first in countries that are not ready yet for electric mobility.

In a video interview with CarSifu last September, Chery International country director for Malaysia Leo Chen had said the SUV models that Malaysians could get are the Tiggo 4 Pro, Tiggo 7 Pro and Tiggo 8 Pro as well as the Omoda 5.

In October, it previewed the Tiggo 8 Pro and Omoda 5 as well as three other models along with a short media drive of the Tiggo series.


Over half of Malaysians not keen on owning cars, claims report

                KUALA LUMPUR: More than half of residents in Malaysia (51%) would consider giving up car ownership and rely on long-term car rental if it was convenient and easy for them, says a report by Avis Budget Group, a leading global provider of mobility solutions.

The report noted that however, almost all (97%) of residents in Malaysia surveyed think that owning a car is important and 67% still see the car as the ideal mode of transport.

Also, 73% of respondents feel comfortable having their data accessed and shared for the implementation of smart infrastructure and better travel experience.

The report, titled The Road Ahead: The Future of Mobility, examined the way in which the mobility landscape is changing around the world, how it is likely to look in the future and, how people in different countries view these changes.

In the research, respondents revealed that over the next decade, consumers are likely to move to an access-driven and on-demand model as their favourite mode of transportation. The Avis report polled 14,286 adults in July and August 2019 across 16 international markets in Europe and Asia, including Malaysia.

“Driven by technology advancements and the influence of services like Amazon, Netflix and Spotify, people today want to consume and access products and services at the click of a button," said Avis Budget Group president (international) Keith Rankin.

"The expectation for an on-demand service has impacted the mobility industry and resulted in the evolution we’re seeing today - from being able to book a taxi instantly to hiring a car for a week-long holiday, all from your smartphone. However, our report reveals that we are now seeing a rise in this demand for instant access and flexibility, resulting in changing behaviour towards car ownership.

“Changing needs and the expansion of the sharing economy offer both challenges and opportunities for the mobility industry. Our research has shown that whilst consumers are expectant of connected, integrated and on-demand services, they still want convenience at a reasonable price.

“It’s imperative that different mobility players work together to ensure the future needs of consumers are met. We have demonstrated the success of collaboration, as shown with our fleet management as a service (FMaaS) partnerships with Via and Lyft, and our agreements with Ford and Continental in providing connected cars.

"Our partnerships demonstrate well how the sector can work together to provide the on-demand and connected services that customers want. These can range from a technology giant delivering 5G, or local governments working with the private sector for improved, urban electric vehicle (EV) access for residents.”


German prosecutors charge former VW CEO Winterkorn with fraud

Winterkorn. — Reuters
FRANKFURT/BERLIN: German prosecutors charged former Volkswagen boss Martin Winterkorn with fraud on Monday over his role in the carmaker’s manipulation of diesel emissions testing, more than three years after the scandal came to light.

The German case comes nearly a year after the United States filed criminal charges against Winterkorn, accusing him of conspiring to cover up the German carmaker’s diesel emissions test cheating.

The prosecutors office in the German city of Braunschweig said in a statement that Winterkorn and four other managers faced charges. It did not give the names of the other four or say whether they were still employed by Volkswagen.

A spokesman for Winterkorn did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Volkswagen chief executive Herbert Diess, who only joined the carmaker in July 2015 and became CEO a year ago, said he was not among those charged.

“I am not among the accused. I do not expect to be charged,” Diess said on the sidelines of the Shanghai auto show.

Volkswagen admitted in September 2015 to having used illegal engine control software to cheat US pollution tests, triggering a global backlash against diesel after the scandal that has so far cost the carmaker 29 billion euros (RM135bil).

Winterkorn resigned shortly after the scandal came to light, saying at the time he was stunned by the scale of misconduct.

Prosecutors said Winterkorn was accused of a particularly serious case of fraud, breach of trust and breaching competition laws because he had not acted - despite having a special responsibility to do so as the company’s CEO - after it became clear on May 25, 2014, that diesel engines had been manipulated.

He neglected to inform authorities in Europe and the United States as well as customers of the illegal software and he also did not prevent the continued installation of such software, the prosecutors said.

They added that this had resulted in Volkswagen being slapped with much higher fines in Germany and the United States than would have been the case had he acted.

Criminal proceedings against the carmaker over the rigged tests had already resulted in a one billion euro fine in June last year, marking one of the highest ever punitive payments imposed by German authorities against a company.

Volkswagen said it would not comment because the company was not a party to the proceedings against individuals and that the Braunschweig criminal case against the company itself had been closed.

Winterkorn remains in Germany, which does not typically extradite its citizens for prosecution in US courts.

In a related case, the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) sued Winterkorn last month, saying US investors were informed too late about the Volkswagen diesel emissions scandal, alleging “massive fraud”.

The Braunschweig prosecutors said people accused of particularly serious fraud could face up to 10 years in prison in Germany.

They said investigations into another 36 suspects in the diesel emissions scandal were ongoing and it was unclear when they would be wrapped up.


Vietnam's bikers racing to upgrade as auto sales explode

                Hoang Hai turned his back on a Vietnamese business that was headed for bankruptcy and became a driving instructor instead. Now he is riding a wave of interest in car ownership as the country's trend-setting middle class swaps two wheels for four.

The Hanoi driving school where Hai works is inundated with people eager to get behind the wheel. About 300 have applied each month so far this year, double the rate in 2014.

Hai, 45, says at least eight out of 10 learners don't own a car, but they all want one. "As soon as there is an intention to buy a car, they'll take a driving lesson," he said.

Famous for its swarms of scooters, Vietnam is seeing auto sales surge amid the rapid expansion of a young, style-conscious middle class after 15 straight years of economic growth of over 5 percent.

While major regional car markets Indonesia and Thailand saw annual declines in auto sales last year, Vietnam's leapt 43 percent, Vietnam Automobile Manufacturers Association (VAMA) data shows. Toyota, Mercedes-Benz, Ford  and Honda reported solid annual sales increases, despite high import taxes.

The number of households in Vietnam with financial assets of $100,000 to $2 million will soon be among the fastest-growing in the world, according to Economist Intelligence Unit research, fuelling luxury vehicles sales in a country where gross domestic product per capita is still only about $1,500.

Porsche Cayennes and Bentleys can nowadays be seen jostling with budget cars and scooters on the chaotic boulevards of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.

BMW says its sales in Vietnam since 2007 have jumped an average 20 percent to 30 percent annually, with more units sold in the past two years than the more populated Philippines, though still far behind more developed Thailand and Malaysia.

"Vietnamese are very entrepreneurial," Horst Herdtle, head of importer BMW Euro Auto Vietnam, said. "They want their cars to reflect that success."

Importers say that while high taxes are putting the brakes on Vietnam's auto market, some of these obstacles should disappear in 2018 when import duties on cars traded among Southeast Asian countries are removed.

Andreas Klingler, general director of Porsche's Vietnam importer, said there was a waiting list of almost 100 people for the German sports cars, and most customers wanted their rides customised.

"Most of our clients prefer to configure their own dream car," Klingler said in an email.

While importers eagerly await the lowering of regional tariff barriers, the domestic auto manufacturing industry is bracing for tough times.

Toyota Vietnam president Yoshihisa Maruta told reporters last week the company was considering whether to continue its assembling operation in Vietnam, as importing complete cars from other Southeast Asian countries would be cheaper in 2018.

Motorcycle salesmen are also nervous about the future.

Registered motorcycles in Vietnam, where one in two citizens owns a bike, fell annually from about 3.3-3.7 million units during 2011-2013 to 2.92 million last year, according to official data in state media. Resident motorcycle makers include Yamaha, Suzuki, Honda and Piaggio.

For many who can afford it, upgrading is a must, not just from motorcycles, but to as flashy a ride as possible.
"Once you drive cars, you no longer want to ride bikes," said Doan Van Tuan, an employee of a government firm, as he inspected the new BMW X6 model at its Hanoi launch.

"You hang out with your friends whose cars are nicer than yours - you have to look at the trend and think again."


The rise of Titan shock absorbers

                Starting a local custom suspension business for cars from scratch has proven fruitful as it has grown from strength-to-strength over the years.

Some 15 years ago, Richard How started MPD Auto Centre, a business producing servicable shock absorber and suspension components and the Titan brand name was born.

Originally operating out of a workshop in Pandan Mewah, Ampang, MPD Auto Centre literally made the big move to a new and bigger premise at Kota Damansara, Petaling Jaya.

Located in the Sunsuria Technology Centre industrial area, the new semi-detached factory takes up 17,000sq ft and offers a larger space for the workshop and convenience for the customers.

“The original shop in Ampang was too small. I was always looking to expand my business anyway but I knew it would take time. And my customers also used to complain about the lack of parking space and some were even concerned about leaving their cars overnight because they felt the area was not safe enough.

“The new location is much better for everyone. A lot of my customers are from Petaling Jaya anyway and I’m a resident of Petaling Jaya too so its convenient and since the move, the business has been growing,” said How.

MPD Auto Centre is a family run business with How solely concentrating on product research and development while his wife and 26-year-old son, Marc How, manage the other aspects of the business.

“I used to work alone but I can’t get my head around sales, marketing and accounting. I’m a technical person and now that my family helps run the business, I can just concentrate on improving the product. I’m always doing research and development on the suspension system and improving the equipment and machines in the workshop,” said How, 56.

Besides the new location, the business aspect of the customisable Titan suspension systems has also changed. Richard started out by catering to performance enthusiasts with his brand of mono-tube shock absorbers but now MPD Auto have branched out to satisfy the needs of regular and luxury car owners.

“For daily users, the most important thing is comfort and stability.

“Comfort for the smooth driving experience and stability during high speed.

“The suspension system has to strike a balance between the two which makes it pleasant for everyday use for the driver and passengers.

“With the Titan suspension system, we will customise to your driving habits and car.

“Our systems are also servicable as well and comes with a warranty too,” said How.

Marc, who began helping his father since he was 16-years-old, now helps to run the day-to-day operations among other things.

“You need a team to build a business. Which is why we have specific roles in conducting our business.

“My dad is not very good at the business so I’ve taken some of those responsibilities so he can concentrate on the technical side of things.

“Now that we have moved to the new location, my job is to build-up the business even more.

“I look after the customers’ needs and also find new customers to bring up the sales. Marketing is the other thing I’m doing as well. I still test out the suspension on the cars and help my dad with tuning the systems,” he said.

Like his father, Marc is self taught with no technical and business background.

“I used to help my dad during the weekends when I was sixteen and later, worked full-time with his business.

 How (left) and Marc installing a Titan shock absorber on a car.

“My dad wanted me to continue my studies but he was going through a tough time back then, and I could see he was always happy when I was around the workshop so I decided to go to work for him,” said Marc.

Richard related that he had only primary school education up to Standard Five.

“I was never really any good with studies. I was much better at drawing.

“I worked different jobs before I started this business.

“I was an auto mechanic and I worked at a furniture shop for a while but I stopped because I liked cars better,” said How.

For someone who has run his own business for so many years now, How points out that the most important thing is not about making money but having determination and improving your product.

“You have to work hard and don’t give up.

“I went through a lot of trying times with my business so it’s also important to have a cool head too.

“It’s not just about making money. It’s about making a good product for people to enjoy.

“Success takes time. I knew that from the beginning. It takes time and effort for a business to grow. I knew I needed a bigger space for my business back then but things like this takes time but if you work hard and don’t give up, your happy day will come,” said How.


A final facelift: The last update before Porsche Macan goes electric

                STUTTGART: It was supposed to be retired soon. But because the successor to the Porsche Macan will be a pure electric, and that won't be ready until 2023, its lifespan is being expanded with one final facelift.

The Macan has been given an updated design, interior and engine range, with the German luxury car maker set to start deliveries at the beginning of October to bridge the time until the all-electric version debuts.

However Porsche won't be killing off the combustion engine just yet, and the facelifted Macan will still be sold in parallel to its upcoming electric counterpart in some markets for some time, according to the manufacturer.

Porsche has mainly updated the engine range and trimmed down the selection. For example, the 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo in the base model now has 265hp and the Macan S comes with a V6 with 380hp.

The Macan GTS increases by 60hp to 440hp, while the turbo version is not available. The more tightly tuned GTS is therefore this range's powerful flagship and also has a new sports air suspension.

At its best, the Macan accelerates from a standstill to 100kph in 4.3 seconds and achieves a top speed of 273kph. WLTP consumption is 10.1 to 11.3 litres and CO2 emissions 228 to 265 g/km, depending on model and engine variant.

To go with the re-sorted engine range, there are modified aprons and sills all around the exterior and a new centre console inside, inspired by the Panamera, with more space and fewer switches. In addition, Porsche says LED headlights are now standard.

Prices in Europe start at 62,917 euros for the base model. The S and GTS versions start at 71,723 euros and 88,264 euros respectively.


How can Lamborghini maintain momentum?

                BOLOGNA: The past 12 months will be remembered as a record year for Italy's most flamboyant supercar builder but what has Lamborghini got planned to keep its customers satisfied in 2017?

For the first time in its 54-year history, Lamborghini has sold more than 3,400 cars in a single year. Even with China cooling as a market for the world's most exclusive and desirable automobiles, Lamborghini managed to sell 3457 cars; that's a 7% increase on last year's sales and a 200%+ increase on sales as recently as 2010.

"In 2016 Lamborghini has proven to be in excellent shape," said company CEO, Stefano Domenicali. "This new all-time high is once more confirming the substance and sustainability of our brand, product and commercial strategy."

 The Aventador S Coupe.

It's phenomenal growth but with competition at the highest echelons of the automotive market at its fiercest for decades, how will Lamborghini maintain this momentum?

The first move is a complete refresh of the Aventador. After five years and 6,000 unit sales, even a car with 700hp can start to seem stale.

So the new Aventador S will come with 740hp, a 0-100kph time of 2.9 seconds and a 350kph top speed. And for good measure, Lamborghini is also adding a new four-wheel steering system to complement its all-wheel drive.

Alongside the new Aventador, the company is readying a lightweight, more aggressive, track-focused version of its Huracán (in both hard- and soft-top form) that's expected to make its debut in Geneva.

 The Urus Concept.

And while these supercars will keep the company's oldest customers very happy, Lamborghini believes that the only way to continue posting record years is to move into the burgeoning SUV market with the Urus.

"[We are] preparing not only for new models in our super sports car range, but for a company-wide quantum leap in our product portfolio -- the third model line," said Domenicali.

The company is so sure that the Urus will be a hit that it's spent most of the past year expanding its factory so that it can meet forecast demand when the car officially goes on sale in 2018. But expect to see the finished model much sooner, potentially at Geneva.

As well as being the most powerful and fastest production SUV in the world when it launches, Lamborghini has also confirmed that it will be the marque's first turbocharged model and the first car in its history to offer a hybrid option.


Ford to partner with Mahindra to develop SUVs and electric car

The Mahindra KUV 100.
DETROIT: Ford and India's Mahindra & Mahindra on Thursday signed an agreement that will see the two companies working together to develop midsize and compact SUVs and an electric vehicle.

This isn't the first time such an alliance has been spoken about as Ford and Mahindra, which is one of India's oldest vehicle manufacturers, had previously announced plans last September for a strategic alliance. However, the agreement is now signed so work can now finally get under way.

Mahindra is probably best known as a manufacturer of trucks, tractors and EVs, and in the past it has tried and largely failed to sell its products into the lucrative American market, although a notable exception came in the form of the Jeep CJ copycat, the Roxor.

The midsize SUV when it's finished is to be sold independently by both companies under separate brands, and from there the two companies will work together to produce a compact SUV and an all-electric vehicle.

It seems logical from the Ford point of view that a tie-up with a company like Mahindra could help it increase its share of the growing and potentially extremely lucrative Indian market, but there could be other export opportunities for the fruits of this new partnership in the future.

Late last year, Mahindra opened a new headquarters near Detroit because it wants to sell EVs in the American market. The company also owns the Ssangyong brand that hasn't yet made it to America, but its current range of small CUVs sold elsewhere in the world could potentially provide platforms that could be utilized for the co-developed product.

At the press conference to announce the partnership, the two companies stated that the agreement covers a period of up to three years, and it will include helping support Mahindra in some of the world's emerging markets.

Models like the Quanto and KUV100 that Mahindra already produces are the kind of small, car-like vehicles that are much more popular in emerging markets than generally more expensive pickup-based SUVs. Speaking of the agreement, the two companies said: "The strategic alliance continues to focus on leveraging the benefits of Ford's global reach and expertise and Mahindra's scale in India and its successful operating model."


Cross a Supra and Chiron, and this is what you get ...

LOS ANGELES: Look hard at the Toyota Supra and you might start to imagine the front end of a different car.

For artist Michael Grigorev, it seemed that the intricate nose of the Supra would sit well with a grille from supercar builder Bugatti to bring about the "Togatti Supron" (Toyota Supra + Bugatti Chiron).

The Supra actually looks like an ideal candidate for the nose job as rendered in this post.  Its appearance reminds one of the Italian supercar brand's Galibier concept that did not take off.

Arguably, the grille might have actually helped tone down the already busy front end that tries to emulate an F1 racecar's nose to some degree.

Although the front end is just an artist's fantasy,  fans of the Supra are calling for an open-top variant like the BMW Z4.

After all, the two carmakers  share the same platform, so a Targa / Speedster version of the Supra is definitely a possibility.

The question is, will Toyota be willing to develop one or is it already in the pipeline and it's not telling? We will just have to wait and see.


Nikola names Michael Lohscheller as next CEO

                PHOENIX: Nikola Corp says Michael Lohscheller, previously from Opel and Vinfast, will take over as the electric-truck maker's chief executive officer when Mark Russell retires on Jan 1 next year.

Lohscheller, who joined the company in February, will take over as president from Russell and join Nikola's board effective immediately, the company said.

Nikola said Lohscheller, 53, was instrumental in Tre battery electric vehicles' production and in achieving development milestones for the Tre fuel-cell electric vehicles.

Nikola, which aims to make between 300 and 500 Tre battery electric trucks this year, stuck to its production target last week after its second-quarter revenue beat estimates.

Lohscheller was the CEO of German automaker Adam Opel AG from conglomerate Stellantis NV's, stable and briefly served as Vietnamese car maker VinFast's global top boss before taking on the role of Nikola Motor's president.

Russell, 59, replaced Nikola founder Trevor Milton, accused of defrauding investors by lying about the company, as CEO in 2020.


BMW exploring energy investments to reduce dependence on natural gas

                BERLIN: BMW is exploring new investments in solar, geothermal and hydrogen energy to lower its dependence on natural gas, the carmaker's production chief said today, warning an embargo on Russian gas would bring the industry to a standstill.

The carmaker, which relied on natural gas for 54% of its energy consumption in 2021, is examining where it can add solar panels to its plants and developing plans with local authorities to transport hydrogen to its plant in Leipzig, Germany.

"Hydrogen is very well-suited to lower or even fully compensate for gas demand," Milan Nedeljkovic said.

"Our industry accounts for around 37% of German natural gas consumption," he said when asked what would happen to BMW's plants in the event of a halt to gas deliveries from Russia.

"Not just BMW but the entire sector would come to a standstill."

BMW's plans reflect wider preparations underway across German industry to shift away from Russian gas and come up with a system to ration available supplies in the event of a sudden halt to deliveries.

Beyond Germany, a new plant in Debrecen, Hungary, which BMW has said will be the world's first auto factory to run entirely without fossil fuels, will rely heavily on solar, Nedelkjovic said, adding that the carmaker was also looking into using geothermal energy.

Geothermal power is more stable than weather-dependent renewables but has not seen growth or investment comparable to wind or solar partly due to high upfront costs and complex licensing processes for drilling.

Asked about the potential of nuclear energy, which accounts for around half of Hungary's energy supply but is being phased out in Germany, Nedeljkovic said: "Nuclear energy can be a stabilising factor, particularly in these volatile times. For our own production we rely on regenerative energy sources."


Hyundai Ioniq 5 EV open for booking and arriving this month

                PETALING JAYA: Hyundai-Sime Darby Motors (HSDM) will be rolling out Hyundai’s top electric vehicle (EV), the Ioniq 5, this month after the successful sale of its Kona Electric model last year.

The Ioniq 5 is now open for booking at all authorised Hyundai showrooms with a booking fee of RM1,000.

The EV is available with two battery pack options of either 58kWh or 72.6kWh, and electric motor layouts of a rear motor only or both front and rear motors.

All variants provide outstanding range and deliver a top speed of 185kph.

Styling includes Hyundai’s first clamshell hood that minimises panel gaps for optimal aerodynamics, front bumper with an eye-catching V-shape and distinctive daytime running lights (DRLs) that provide an unmistakable light signature unique to Ioniq 5.

Small pixel-like clusters also appear at the rear of the vehicle.

The Ioniq 5's automatic flush door handles also provide clean surface styling and enhanced aerodynamic efficiency.

The front and rear forms of the vehicle merge together at its doors, offering another example of Hyundai’
‘Parametric Dynamics’ design that was first seen on the Elantra.

The strong C-pillar shape, inspired by Hyundai’s ‘45’ EV concept, gives the Ioniq 5 a commanding presence that is clearly identifiable from a distance.

The Ioniq 5 is built on Hyundai’s dedicated battery EV architecture – Electric-Global Modular Platform (E-GMP), enabling unique proportions on an elongated wheelbase.

Aero-optimized wheels further echo the Parametric Pixel design theme of the Ioniq 5 and are offered in a super-sized 20-inch diameter, the largest wheels ever fitted to a Hyundai EV.

Sime Darby Motors Malaysia managing director of retail and distribution Jeffrey Gan said Hyundai is
expected to lead the electric vehicle market segment in Malaysia as more electric vehicles are expected to
be rolled out over the next three years.

“The Kona Electric introduced last year was a resounding success with the first batch of vehicles sold out,” said Gan.

HSDM managing director Low Yuan Lung said the Ioniq 5 is the benchmark in redefining the electric mobility lifestyle with sustainable and innovative features.

“It offers an innovative interior design with eco-friendly materials, strong performance mated with ultra-fast charging and a Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) function,” he said.

A boxed-up teaser display of the Ioniq 5 will be at 1Utama Shopping Centre’s Centre Court (Ground Floor) from March 2 to 6.

The Ioniq 5 can be booked online via Hyundai’s online shopping platform, Cl!ck to Buy www.hyundai.com.my/clicktobuy/ or visit any of Hyundai’s authorized showrooms.

Customers can also call Hyundai’s Customer Careline at 1300-13-2000 or log on to www.hyundai.com.my for more information and enquiries.


Police set to crack down on traffic offenders

                KUALA LUMPUR: Police will go after individuals who have yet to settle their arrest warrants or summonses when Ops Warta begins next week.

Bukit Aman traffic chief Senior Asst Comm Datuk Mohd Fuad Abdul Latiff said a two-week grace period was given but many had yet to pay their summonses.

“As of Monday, our records show that only 18,260 summonses with warrants of arrest status had been settled.

“I urge these people to think wisely and take the opportunity given to pay up their summonses,” he said in a statement on Tuesday.

SAC Mohd Fuad said that starting next week, police personnel would be carrying out their duty to trace and detain traffic offenders with warrants of arrest.

“I warn them to settle their summonses immediately. If they fail to do so, they will be taken to court.

“And if they do not give full cooperation, police will invoke the arrest procedure including handcuffing the offenders," he said.

Those who want to check on their summonses can visit the traffic police counters nationwide, or log into www.myeg.com.my and www.rilek.com.my.

It was reported that police would be going all out to serve the 1.59 million warrants of arrest when Ops Warta starts.


Mazda North America to make auto brakes as standard

                WASHINGTON: Mazda North American Operations will make Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) standard on all of its new vehicles by September 1, 2022, as part of its i-ACTIVSENSE safety technologies strategy.

AEB helps to prevent crashes and to reduce their severity by applying a vehicle's brakes automatically.

The systems use on-board sensors such as radar, cameras or lasers to detect an imminent crash, warn the driver, and prepares the vehicle by adjusting the brake pads closer to the brake discs, and if the driver does not take sufficient action, apply the brakes.

Mazda's Smart City Braking System:

Mazda's i-ACTIVSENSE is an umbrella term covering a series of advanced safety technologies which make use of detection devices such as milliwave radars and cameras.

They include active safety technologies that support safe driving by helping the driver to recognise potential hazards, and pre-crash safety technologies, which help to avert collisions or reduce their severity in situations where they cannot be avoided.

"Mazda's safety philosophy is based on understanding, respecting, and trusting the driver, because driving matters," said Mazda North American Operations president and CEO Masahiro Moro.


China's SAIC to dilute stake in MG Motor India, drive EV sales

                BENGALURU: China's SAIC Motor plans to drop its ownership in MG Motor India to allow domestic entities to take a majority stake, the Indian electric vehicle maker said today, as Chinese investments face increased scrutiny by the New Delhi government.

MG also plans to invest more than 50 billion rupees (RM2.7bil) to build a second plant in India amid a slew of other proposals, including exploring cell manufacturing, with the aim that at least 65% of its sales comprise of EVs from 2026.

While MG did not detail how or when SAIC would start lowering its stake, local media quoted MG managing director, Rajeev Chaba, saying the first step will be announced this year, with the aim to be majority owned by Indians in 2-4 years.

Two weeks back, local media reported that JSW Holdings Ltd, the financial arm of Indian conglomerate JSW Group, was in talks to buy a stake in MG. JSW denied the report.

MG did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

MG entered India in 2019 with plans to invest about US$650 million (RM2.9bil). But New Delhi has sought to limit investments from Beijing after a 2020 clash between soldiers from the two countries on their disputed Himalayan border.

Last November, the government asked MG to explain why it posted a loss in 2019-2020, its first year of operations.

Nonetheless, MG, last month, launched its second electric offering and India's lowest-priced EV – the Comet EV – as it seeks to take on local market leader Tata Motors.

It now plans to launch four to five new vehicles, mostly electric.

MG also said it would look to turn profitable by 2025 and raised its annual sales target to 100,000 units from 80,000 earlier.

The company has a manufacturing facility in the western Indian state of Gujarat, with an annual production capacity of 125,000 vehicles.


Tesla plans to build cathode building at Texas Gigafactory

                AUSTIN: Tesla Inc on Wednesday applied for a permit to extend its existing Austin-based car factory with a building to produce cathodes for battery manufacturing, according to city filings and a spokesman.

An application submitted on Wednesday for an Austin building permit under the program name "Cathode" listed the Colorado River Project LLC as a co-applicant. That is the name Tesla has used throughout the permitting process for its new Texas factory on the state and local level.

"I can confirm that this is for the Tesla project and this permit is for a cathode building," a spokesman for the city's development services department said on Thursday, adding that the city did not have further information.

News site Electrek first reported on the filing on Thursday.

The new building would extend Tesla's existing vehicle factory located on the eastern outskirts of Austin near the airport. According to the city filing, it would have the size of nearly 1.6 million square feet.

The electric carmaker began manufacturing vehicles at the factory on the eastern outskirts of Austin earlier this year.

Chief executive officer Elon Musk in September said Tesla plans to build a cathode facility as part of its battery cell production plant.

The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality on Jan. 20 approved Tesla's vehicle manufacturing site. The carmaker still has several other permits pending with the commission, which needs to provide air quality permits for polluting manufacturing sites.

In 2020 filings with the Commission, Tesla said its emissions sources for battery cell production would include anode and cathode mixing dust.

Cathodes are the single most expensive component of a battery and producing them requires lots of space and emits large quantities of CO2 emissions.


Five tips from Ford

PETALING JAYA: Hari Raya Aidilfitri is finally around the corner and almost every Malaysian road will experience peak traffic flow in the coming days when millions of people traverse from north to south, east and west, back to their kampungs to enjoy the festivities with family.

Notwithstanding the celebrations, it is also a time when road users need to be extra cautious while on the road. Sadly, during every festive period, there is a significant spike in road accidents and fatalities.

Some of the main causes of accidents include unusually heavy volume of traffic which means road users will spend longer hours on the road, resulting in fatigue and stress. To help you arrive safely at your destination with your loved ones, here are five tips for your trip home from Ford:

1. Prepare Your Car:

Before you embark upon your balik kampung journey, there are some basic checks you can perform to help get your vehicle ready for a long drive. Before setting out, you can check the oil levels, wiper fluid, and tyre pressure. If you are travelling with children, ensure they are buckled up and use an appropriate child safety seat for their age.

2. Plan Your Trip:

Leave plenty of extra time on your trip. Delays are the one thing that you can count on when driving long distances while millions of fellow travellers are doing the same. Building in extra time can help keep you relaxed on the drive, and will allow you to take breaks along the way. Remember, the shortest route isn’t always the fastest route, aim to avoid roads that are prone to congestion during peak hours.

3. Pack Smartly:

Make sure you keep a basic first-aid kit in your glove box. Also bring things to entertain yourselves, like music, games, and toys for kids.

4. Divide the Labour:

Driving long distances can be tiring, so try to take breaks and share the driving. Some people are good at navigating; others couldn’t read a map if they tried. Know who does what well, and divide up jobs by talent and preference.

5. Keep Calm and … :

When frustration rises, remember everyone is just trying to get home to their loved ones. Losing your temper will not help the situation. Take a step back, remember Hari Raya is about forgiveness and reconciliation, and re-evaluate your itinerary and ETA.

Of course, safe driving should not only be practiced during festive seasons. Ford invites all members of the public to join the ‘Future of Safety with Ford’ tour – a fun, interactive and hands-on experience that aims to promote greater road safety awareness among all Malaysians. Through the programme, Ford will encourage consumers to drive safely for the sake of their loved ones, and consider technologies that can help them do so.

The 45 minute safety tours will be held on Aug 6-7, every half an hour from 10am, at 1Utama Shopping Centre, Petaling Jaya.


Lambo dealers are keeping warm despite crypto winter

                NEW YORK: Many crypto buyers have been consumed by a single, persistent question as they’ve watched the prices of coins rise and fall over the past few years: When Lambo?

Lambo is shorthand for Lamborghini, the luxury vehicle that’s the ultimate symbol of success when it comes to getting rich off of digital currencies, and the focus of thousands of "wen Lambo?” memes.

Along with high-end watches and other traditional displays of wealth, the supercars have for years been a fixture at Bitcoin conferences and on the Instagram feeds of crypto influencers.

The recent crash in the price of crypto has flooded second-hand markets with other luxury goods, including Patek Philippe and Rolex watches.

Lamborghinis, however, are doing just fine.

The strong demand for supercars suggests most owners inhabit a rarified stratum of trophy seekers, those who are so wealthy that they’re essentially undisturbed by changes in the market.

Peter Saddington is one of them. He became famous in the crypto car community after he bought a Lamborghini in 2017 for 45 Bitcoin, equivalent to more than US$200,000 (RM892,000) at the time.

He had bought the Bitcoin for just US$115 (RM513) in 2011, back when the cryptocurrency was worth less than US$3 (RM14).

The move helped popularise buying luxe cars in crypto.

Today, even after the crash, the 45 Bitcoin he spent would be worth $1 million.

Saddington said many of his friends in the industry are still in the market for luxury cars. Big price shifts are par for the course in digital currencies and shouldn’t get in the way of luxury car purchases, said Saddington, now an investor in crypto projects.

Over video chat, Saddington showed off a sleek, black Mercedes he bought in April using money he earned from Bitcoin mining.

He said he has no plans to sell his original Bitcoin Lamborghini: "It’s in the other garage.”

autoCoinCars, an online platform founded in 2018 that lets buyers buy luxury cars with digital money, has seen sales on its platform double to US$12 million in the past year, a rate that’s holding steady, said chief operating officer Luke Willmott.

The company often registers more luxury vehicle sales during times of market turmoil, Willmott said.

Part of the reason for that, he believes, is because Lamborghinis tend to be less volatile than digital currencies.

"People are spending because they want to exit out of their crypto and get into physical assets,” he said.

"That will allow them to then have this asset that doesn't depreciate like how their crypto asset will depreciate.”

Indeed, in a cruel twist of the markets, Lamborghinis have recently held their value better than cryptocurrencies.

The prices of Bitcoin and Ether have plunged by more than 50% since November, and platforms and lenders like Celsius Network and Voyager Digital have recently gone bankrupt.

Meanwhile, the price of a used Lambo has held about steady over the last year, according to CarGurus.com.

Lamborghini sales last year were higher than ever and are on pace to exceed that record this year, according to financial disclosures last week from the parent company Volkswagen AG.

Part of the reason sales have held up so well is that supplies are low and waitlists are long. O’Gara Coach Co., a high-end Southern California auto dealership with an option to purchase cars in crypto, hasn’t seen any change in Lamborghini sales since the market tumult set in.

A spokesman said the dealership’s Lamborghini waiting list is more than a year and a half long.

The allure for cryptocurrency speculators is similar to what drives just about any wealthy person to spend so much on a small automobile.

"If you want a really fast car, you can get something else for a lot cheaper. If you get a yacht, you can take your family on vacation,” said SHL0MS, a pseudonymous nonfungible token artist.

A Lamborghini "purely exists to flaunt wealth,” said SHL0MS, who in February exploded a Lamborghini Huracan on camera in an effort to mock crypto industry excess. (The resulting NFTs sold for US$2.2 million.)

Most people hurt by the crypto crash never made enough to buy a Lamborghini in the first place, but there are some who got in over their heads.

CJ Wilson, a retired professional baseball player who owns several luxury auto dealerships in Fresno, California, said he’s seen more people in recent weeks trying to sell their vehicles.

The previous bull market may have lured some traders into a false sense of security, Wilson said: "People get suckered into this narrative that things go up only.”


Subaru Ascent is a future 7-seat SUV

                NEW YORK: The Subaru Ascent SUV Concept made its world debut at the New York Auto Show on Wednesday.

The styling concept also confirms the name Ascent for the upcoming Subaru 3-row SUV. Both the design concept and the production Ascent will feature an all-new turbocharged direct injection boxer engine.

The exterior design of the concept follows Subaru’s “Dynamic x Solid” theme with powerful fender flares representing Subaru’s all-wheel drive system and a large, bluff grille denoting an SUV look. It rides on 21-inch wheels.

It is around 5 metres long, 2.0-metres wide and 1.8 metres high. The wheelbase is a little under 3 metres.

The interior of the concept features a flowing dashboard design and a 7-passenger configuration with centre captain’s chairs.
The Ascent production model will be based on a modified version of the Subaru Global Platform that debuted last year.

The model will be built at Subaru of Indiana, Inc. in Lafayette, Indiana and will be sold exclusively in the North American market starting in 2018.


Volvo sold over 600,000 CMA-based cars

                GOTHENBURG: It's an achievement worthy of publicity. Volvo Car Group has announced that it has sold over 600,000 cars based on the Compact Modular Architecture (CMA) platform by the end of July.

The volume included cars from affiliates Lynk & Co and Polestar.

The CMA platform was co-developed by Volvo Car and Zhejiang Geely Holding (Geely).

The platform debuted in 2017 with the hugely-popular XC40, and due to its modular design, was used to create the Lynk & Co 01, 02, 03 and 05, as well as the pure electric 2020 Polestar 2 and Volvo’s first all-electric model, the XC40 Recharge.

 XC40 Recharge.

Deliveries of the new CMA-based Polestar 2, which began this month, will continue to drive sales on this successful platform.

“We are incredibly proud of these sales figures for our CMA cars,” said Håkan Samuelsson, chief executive at Volvo Cars. “We have had ten very successful years with Geely and we will continue to leverage the excellent partnerships we have created within the group to pave the way for further growth and synergies.”

READ MORE:
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First all-electric Polestar 2 delivered


Tesla must fix 'flaws' in Autopilot after fatal crash, says US consumer group

The fatal crash of the Model X in March that took the life of its driver. - Reuters
WASHINGTON: A consumer advocacy group today urged Tesla Inc to fix what it termed as “flaws” in the automaker’s driver-assistance system Autopilot after a preliminary government report said a driver did not have his hands on the vehicle’s steering wheel in the final six seconds before a fatal crash.

The report issued on Thursday by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) said Walter Huang, the driver of the 2017 Model X using Autopilot, had been given two visual alerts and one auditory alert to place his hands on the steering wheel during the trip - but those alerts came more than 15 minutes before the March 23 crash.

He died in hospital soon after the crash.

David Friedman, director of Cars and Product Policy and Analysis for Consumers Union, the advocacy arm of Consumer Reports, said the NTSB’s “alarming report reinforces why Tesla must respond immediately to previous concerns raised about its driver-assist system.”

Friedman said the crash “demonstrates that Tesla’s system can’t dependably navigate common road situations on its own, and fails to keep the driver engaged exactly when it is needed most.”

The NTSB report said the vehicle had sped up from 100kph to nearly 114kph in the three seconds before the crash.

In the minute before the crash, Huang’s hands were on the wheel for a total of 34 seconds, but not in the last six seconds before he struck a crash attenuator and concrete barrier on US Highway 101 in Mountain View, California, the report said.

Tesla says drivers are supposed to keep their hands on the wheel at all times when using the system, but many drivers at times opt not to do so.

Tesla declined to comment on the NTSB report and did not immediately comment today, but said in March that Huang had not braked or taken actions to avoid the crash in the final seconds before the accident.

A lawyer for Huang’s family, Mark Fong, said in a statement the NTSB report supports “our concerns that there was a failure of both the Tesla Autopilot and the automatic braking systems of the car,” he said. “The Autopilot system should never have caused this to happen.”

Last month, police in Utah said a Tesla in Autopilot crashed into a stopped fire truck. In that incident, the driver of the Model S did not touch the steering wheel in the 80 seconds before the crash.

Tesla’s owner’s manual warns drivers that the system may not detect stationary objects when traveling at higher speeds.

The safety board is investigating four Tesla crashes since August 2017 and looking at post-crash fire issues and the use of Autopilot.

The NTSB previously faulted Tesla in a 2016 fatal crash in Florida in which Autopilot was engaged, saying: “Tesla allowed the driver to use the system outside of the environment for which it was designed and the system gave far too much leeway to the driver to divert his attention.”


Ducati to supply electric motorcycles for FIM Enel MotoE World Cup from 2023 season

                BOLOGNA (Italy): Ducati is beginning its electric motorsports era as the sole official supplier of motorcycles for the FIM Enel MotoE World Cup, the electric class of the MotoGP World Championship starting with the 2023 season.

The agreement signed with Dorna Sports, organiser and promoter of the most important international two-wheel racing championships, lasts until 2026 and will therefore cover four editions of the MotoE World Cup.

The announcement of the agreement was made during a joint press conference in the press room of the Misano World Circuit "Marco Simoncelli"; on the eve of the Made in Italy and Emilia-Romagna Grand Prix, the third to last round of the 2021 MotoGP World Championship.

This is a historic step for the Borgo Panigale motorcycle manufacturer which, following its custom of using racing competition as a laboratory for technologies and solutions that then become reality for all motorcyclists, enters the world of electric bikes starting from the sportiest sector, that of the electric class of the MotoGP World Championship.

The goal is to develop expertise and technologies in a constantly evolving world such as the electric one, through an experience familiar to the company like that of racing competition.

Ducati forms part of the Volkswagen Group, which has made electric mobility an essential element of its 2030 "New Auto" strategy, represents the best prerequisite for an extraordinary exchange of expertise in the field of electric powertrains.

Domenicali (left) and Ezpeleta at the press conference.

Ducati Motor Holding CEO Claudio Domenicali said the company was proud of this agreement because it represented a historic moment for Ducati.

"Ducati is always projected towards the future and every time it enters a new world, it does so to create the best performing product possible," he said.

Dorna Sports CEO Carmelo Ezpeleta said the organisation was proud to announce Ducati as the new, single manufacturer for the FIM Enel MotoE World Cup.

"With their incredible racing history, it is an honour to welcome this commitment from one of the best-known manufacturers in the paddock and to take on this new challenge together," he said.


Lexus ES

                Japanese luxury car-maker Lexus has updated the looks and features of its Lexus ES mid-sized sedan for 2015, which comes in three variants - the ES 250 Premium, ES 250 Luxury and the ES 300h Hybrid.

The cosmetic changes to the ES include a re-designed front fascia featuring a much bolder spindle grille while the headlamps have been upgraded to LED (light emitting diodes) compared to the previous Halogen and HID type.

Both the headlamps and rear combination lamps look sharper now thanks to the L-shaped design.

READ ALSO: New cars coming in second half of 2015

The front fog lamp bezel now look sleeker too with a vertical design compared to the round shape earlier.

The wheels offered now are completely new designs with a more aggressive nature to it.

And the dual exhaust pipes now comes with a more distinguished diamond shape, ditching the safe circular shape before.

The interior has been slightly updated as well with a more elegantly designed steering wheel which consists of birdseye maple and leather.

The multi-information display (MID) on the instrument panel has been bumped up to 4.2-inch compared to the earlier 3.5-inch.

The shift lever too has undergone some changes as it now made of leather and chrome with a leather boot instead of the pervious skinny-looking lever which featured leather and wood accents.

The new ES also features a more quieter and premium-feeling cabin.

The quilted upholstery too has a refreshed and luxurious look thanks to its new and meticulous stitching pattern.

The Luxury and Hybrid variants now come with Blind Spot Monitor and Rear Cross Traffic Alert while Hill-Start Assist Control comes standard across the line-up.

Pricing (on-the-road without insurance) starts at RM259,200 for the ES 250 Premium; RM278,600 (ES 250 Luxury) and RM355,100 (ES 300h).

For more information on models, go to the local Lexus website.


Video comparison between new and old BMW X3

MUNICH: BMW has posted a video comparing the new X3 with the previous one.

The X3, unveiled at the BMW plan in Spartanburg, South Carolina, USA, where it will be produced, is a compact crossover and competes with the Audi Q5, which has been around since 2003.

The second-generation has been in production since late 2010, and its replacement uses much of the same design language.

The cosmetic changes in the X3 are an evolution rather than a revolution. The entire vehicle is a little more rounded as BMW continues to soften the angles that were so prevalent in its design philosophy a few years ago.

The interior has also been enhanced for an ergonomic feel while drivers will also be able to benefit from a refined system linking them to their car and their smartphone, with gesture and voice control for BMW's ConnectedDrive. Three lines will be available: xLine, Luxury Line and M Sport.

The new X3 uses a new platform that underpins the new 5 Series sedan, and it's also expected to be the starting point for a new 3 Series in 2018.

The platform is a lightweight, rear-wheel drive affair to deliver improvements in fuel-efficiency, handling and performance over the second-generation model.

The new X3 range will include three petrol and two diesel engine variants, and models listed for the US include the flagship BMW X3 M40i and the xDrive30i.

The new X3 is retailed in Germany from 47,000 euros (RM226,000), 3,400 euros (around RM16,300) more than the previous generation. However, the higher price includes more standard equipment.


GWM to start Brazil plant operations in May 2024

                IRACEMAPOLIS (Brazil): Chinese carmaker Great Wall Motor Co Ltd will start operations of its Iracemapolis plant in Brazil on May 1, 2024, the company announced on Thursday, also disclosing which vehicles it will manufacture there.

The firm, owner of brands such as Haval and Tank, said it will produce a hybrid, flex-fuel pickup called Poer and a still undisclosed hybrid SUV in the plant, which was bought from Mercedes-Benz in 2021 and will be its largest in a Western country.

GWM will join firms such as Toyota, which already manufactures hybrid flex-fuel cars in Brazil, and Stellantis, also investing in the technology.

Those cars can run on 100% ethanol in addition to their electric engines. Poer will be the first hybrid pickup produced in Brazil, according to the firm.

GWM also expects to export vehicles from the South American nation, initially eyeing other Latin American countries.

It will start renovations in the plant in the first half of 2023, aiming to expand its capacity to 100,000 vehicles per year from the current 20,000.


Proton confirms 49 employees in Shah Alam tested positive for Covid-19

                KUALA LUMPUR: Proton Holdings Bhd has confirmed that 49 of its employees have tested positive for Covid-19, subsequent to one of its workers testing positive on Oct 14.

In a statement today, it said all 49 employees are from its engineering division in Shah Alam, Selangor.

"For now, the company has requested all non-essential personnel from the affected facility to work from home as a precautionary measure.

"The company has been adhering to official protocols and is continuing its efforts with more stringent actions to prevent further spread, ” it said.

Proton said contact tracing is ongoing, adding that it has set up a Covid-19 team to monitor the situation.

The company said it will continue to strictly adhere to safety and health guidelines.

Furthermore, it said Proton’s centre of service excellence and showroom in Shah Alam are disinfected on an hourly basis, and all customer-facing personnel follow a rigorous procedure.

"Proton is working with the authorities and is satisfied with the actions taken so far.

"The safety of all Proton staff, customers, and Malaysians are of utmost importance to the company and will be its main priority, ” it added.


Porsche 911 GT3: Track ripper

                Same track, different days and different cars.

The Sepang circuit has become a familiar stomping ground. We have lost count of how many times we have been there to cover track and ground events from launches to “Car X Driving Experiences”. Substitute “Car X” with any number of brands from Honda, Toyota, Audi, Mercedes-Benz, Lamborghini, Ferrari or BMW.

And just like that, a whole day passes by.

At times like these, it’s an occasion to drive the guts out of each car, yet remain mindful to stay within the limits of one’s own capability.

Earlier this month, Porsche’s regional headquarters in Singapore organised a drive for the media and its customers at Sepang to show off the Porsche 911 GT3 and the more powerful Turbo S as a foil.

This was a re-enactment of the event in February where our writer, Rizal Johan, was supposed to try both cars but instead went with the Turbo S and Carrera 4S after the GT3 drive was axed following a global recall over an engine fire risk.

A total of 785 of the 2014 GT3s around the world were reportedly affected. Porsche has since identified the cause, replaced all engines and declared the problem solved. We were reassured no one would be toast that day.

Porsche says 80% of GT3 owners take their cars to the track. As a track-oriented road car, the GT3 is strictly a two-seater unlike the Turbo S a 2+2 coupe, that is relatively more “practical”, more powerful and exhibit a wider dynamic range as a high performance car.

The GT3 cabin is dominated by Alcantara, leather and parts in Galvano Silver as well as brushed aluminium.

Alcantara is easy to grip and maintain, hence it’s mainly found on touchpoints like the steering wheel rim and gear lever.

A 4.6-inch colour display forms part of the five-dial instrument cluster with rev meter in dominant spot, providing the driver with data from the on-board computer, including average speed and fuel consumption, fuel range and outside temperature, and allows him to view data from the stopwatch of the optional Sport Chrono package.

A 7-inch infotainment screen is centrally located on the dash.

The Sport Chrono Package comprises an analogue and digital stopwatch on the dashboard. In conjunction with Porsche Communication Management (PCM), Sport Chrono Package functionality is enhanced with a performance display and the ability to display, store and evaluate recorded lap times.

Build quality is, as expected, stellar.

 The GT3 engine is not turbocharged but delivers so much power and torque.

You sit low and deep in the bucket seats that are snug and comfortable, partly to offset the hard ride.

Rearward view, however, is marred by the huge spoiler.

Among the 911s, long considered the quintessential sports car, the GT3 is ranked a few pegs below the top dog – the Turbo S.  One is RM1.23mil; the other is RM1.75mil. At such stratospheric prices, the owners of such cars demand nothing but the best in handling and performance.

While both are adept at the essentials as sports cars go, they differ in some ways.

The GT3 sits lower, is slightly bigger and comes with a GT3-specific 7-speed gearbox designed for rapid-fire shifting in tune with the rigours of track use.

The dual-clutch transmission’s depth of skill might even surprise those who have been rueing the absence of a 6-speed manual.

There’s also a raft of aerodynamic mods to keep the car light,  agile and fast – front spoiler, underbody panel,  huge active rear spoiler and 20-inch forged aluminium wheels form part of the go-fast implements. At 1,430kg, the GT3 is also 175kg lighter than the Turbo S.

It has for the first time active rear-wheel steering that turns rear wheels slightly in or out; this improves manoeuvrability at low speeds and stability (together with massive rear spoiler) at high speeds. The 3.8-litre flat-six enginein the rump is a piece of engineering marvel.

Based on the current 911 Carrera’s powerplant, much of it is altered to effectively make it a new engine.

It’s high revving – up to 9,000 rpm - and Porsche has managed to squeeze 475hp and 440Nm out of the naturally aspirated direct fuel injected engine.

Power peaks at 8,250rpm, while maximum torque is dialled in at 6,250 rpm.

All these tech wizardry ultimately come together to decide how well the car handles and drives.

Get the GT3 quickly up to speed and you will discover it’s nimble, powerful, aurally intoxicating and is what a sports car should be.

Porsche says the GT3 can go from 0-100kph in 3.5s; there no reason to doubt as it’s helluva quick on take-off.

We managed to hit 240kph in the long straight before having to stomp hard on the brakes – splendid stoppers, we might add - as the next corner loomed rapidly into view.

 The 7-speed PDK designed for the GT3.

The 7-speed Porsche Doppelkupplung dual-clutch transmission (PDK) offers lightning quick shifts that are seamless and gear changes up or down are smooth and imperceptible.

The new PDK, revised specially for the GT3, is so good that we didn’t give the paddle shifters a second thought.

Stable and assured, the GT3 took corners like a champ.

Only once did the tail give way but that was quickly corrected with counter steering.

The thing is the GT3 tunes you in to when tyres are at the limit and gives you fair warning to recover and stabilise the car before it’s too late.

Improving cornering are Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tyres that are tenacious grippers.

Handling and steering are remarkable, with the steering feel well-weighted and delivering communicative feedback on what the rubbers are doing.

The power is accessible across a wide band, starting low down and ramping up the heavier the right foot presses down.

At full pelt, the engine sings a song drivers crave – from a low rumble-cum-sputter to a race-worthy wail.

No piped-in synthetic stuff here; this is the real deal.

It’s a heady concoction of power, speed, sound and handling that delivers a stirring performance deserving of a standing ovation.

 The Turbo S in action at the Sepang circuit.

In contrast, the Turbo S comes across as less raw, more refined but with even more power, the better to haul a heavier body around.

The bi-turbo 3.8-litre Turbo S is a little quicker than the GT3 in the 0-100kph sprint while the difference in top speed is marginal – Turbo S at 318kph and GT3 at 315kph.

Make no mistake. The 560hp/700Nm Turbo S can run rings around most car sand still tickle the brain’s pleasure centre, showing definitively it’s a 911 at heart.

All the elements that makes a fine sports car are there – speed, cornering prowess, agility, traction and keen feedback accompanied by that seductive exhaust note.

The GT3 fills a niche, while the Turbo S caters to a wider playing field, answering the need for high performance and a car for everyday use.

 The Turbo S has a yellow-themed interior as the body colour.

While Porsche will say the GT3 can be used on a day to day basis, it’s not as comfortable on account of the hard ride and the lower ground clearance.

Word is an even more extreme version, the GT3 RS, is round the corner.

We reckoned the GT3 is going to be stashed away on most days of the year, seeing track duty every now and then when its owner is in the mood.

On regular days, he would be seen using a luxury sedan/SUV to work or as the vehicle of choice for a family weekend holiday out of town.

Now tell us if this isn’t a more plausible scenario.


Hyundai hosts global EV maintenance workshop

                SEOUL: Hyundai Motor Company says it has recently held a global workshop specialising in electric vehicle (EV) maintenance, to enhance its professional capabilities in the EV era.

The "EV Tech Lab" workshop was designed to help establish Hyundai Motor as a top EV company by placing global EV maintenance professionals through theoretical and practical trainings.

The training focused on repairing EVs, with courses focused on typical maintenance cases and high-level repairs.

“This workshop will help Hyundai Motor take the lead as a global top brand in EV maintenance technology,” said Sung Nam Kim, Vice President and Head of Global Channel and Service Sub-Division at Hyundai Motor Company.

“We will continue striving to provide professional and advanced maintenance service for EVs to our global customers.”

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Hyundai Motor held the workshop from June 28 to July 6, with 25 global key EV maintenance professionals in attendance from Asia, Europe and the US.

Top service experts at Hyundai Motor, including proficient mechanics from South Korea, led the training.

The workshop’s interactive courses included "EV Tech Training" based on actual field cases and shared regional repair cases, "EV Tech Study" on quality-related cases and lectures on EV trends, and "EV Tech Experience" with field trips to EV-related sites, including Hyundai Motor’s Ulsan plant, , Hyundai Motorstudio Goyang, Genesis Suji, and EV-specialised service bases such as the Hyundai EV Station Gangdong.

As more consumers choose EVs, the importance of systematic maintenance services and infrastructure is expected to increase.

Hyundai Motor is focused on continuing the training of maintenance experts. To this end, the company plans to provide preemptive customer service by strengthening its EV maintenance data analysis capabilities in global service sectors.


Regulating Uber and Grab takes time, says SPAD

                PETALING JAYA: Uber and Grab are on the way to being regulated, the Land Public Transport Commission (SPAD) said, after taxi drivers protested against the ride-hailing apps in Kuala Lumpur Tuesday.

"The Commission is undertaking efforts to ensure applications such as Uber and Grab are brought into the system and regulated.

"However this move will require time," a spokesman said in a statement.

He said vehicles using Uber and Grab to pick people up were not licensed either by SPAD or the Road transport Department (JPJ).

He also said SPAD was aware of problems faced by taxi drivers, and that it was trying to find a solution to improve their collective welfare.

 Taxi drivers protest over Uber and Grab brings KL traffic to a halt.

"SPAD will continue to engage the taxi industry and relevant stakeholders and balance the need to protect commuters' interest for better service," he said.

Earlier, nearly a hundred taxi drivers parked their cars along Jalan Bukit Bintang and blocked traffic for about an hour.

They demanded that Uber and Grab be banned. Police then tried to get the drivers time to disperse.

Five drivers were arrested after a final warning was not heeded.

Normal traffic resumed on Jalan Bukit Bintang at about 12.30pm.

Taxi drivers in recent times have protested against these apps, blaming them for a loss of income.

Uber and Grab have been seen as cheaper alternatives to taxis here, with some users claiming that the app's drivers have been giving better services as well.


Mercedes-AMG GT R to be axed after 2021, says report

                STUTTGART: The days of the Mercedes-AMG GT R are numbered, according to Allcarnews on YouTube.

It reported that the GT R would be phased out after the 2021 model year.

It cited an alleged email sent to Mercedes-Benz dealerships stating the matter to that effect.

The email also claimed that order books for 2021 model-year GT Rs would ceased on Dec 29.

At one time, the GT R ruled the roost as the hottest AMG GT available. Then came the GT Black Series that left the GT R in the shade.

As the new top dog, the GT Black Series set a new record as the fastest overall production car at the Nürburgring-Nordschleife, lapping the nearly 21km track in 6:48.047 minutes.