Germany's leading car show no longer wants to be a horsepower parade

                MUNICH: No Opel, no Toyota - many prominent car manufacturers won't even be there: The once world-famous Frankfurt motor show IAA (Internationale Automobil-Ausstellung or International Automobile Exhibition) wants a new start as a citizen-friendly street festival.

First of all, the city is about to change: Frankfurt to Munich.

From Sept 7-12, the show will no longer be all about cars. Instead, the theme will now be transport in general. According to the Munich trade fair, 50 bicycle manufacturers will also be represented at the new IAA Mobility.

"We are convinced that with the IAA we will show the world of mobility of tomorrow," said Juergen Mindel, the managing director of the German Association of the Automotive Industry (VDA), which is now organising the event together with the trade fair company.

The last edition of the IAA in Frankfurt in 2019 was met with major protests from environmentalists and a six-figure drop in visitor numbers.

At the same time, major car companies have taken a bigger interest in tech shows like the CES in Las Vegas, where they hope to flaunt their cars' new smarts.

However, environmentalists have again announced protests, accusing the car industry of greenwashing.

As in Frankfurt, the IAA is to be opened by German Chancellor Angela Merkel. At the new IAA, however, parts of the event will be moved to the magnificent squares of Munich's city centre, including a concert stage.

"For the first time, visitors to the IAA will also be able to test a large number of new cars," said Mindel, adding that the manufacturers have planned more than 230 vehicles for this purpose.

Another attraction will be, among other things, "Germany's largest public fast-charging park" for electric cars, Mindel said.

According to Mindel, more than 500 manufacturers from almost 30 countries will be represented. Among them are Audi, BMW, Daimler, Ford, VW, Porsche, Renault and the Korean Hyundai Group, but also tech companies like IBM and the Chinese company Huawei.

The IAA is opening up to all mobility players, Mindel said - "cars, bicycles, scooters, but also classics."

But some of the most prominent names in the car industry will not be there: for example, Toyota will not be participating, according to a company spokesman.

The new Stellantis group, in which Peugeot/PSA and FiatChrysler have merged, will also be absent with all its brands, including its German subsidiary Opel, the company says.

The US group General Motors also does not have the IAA on its website on the list of trade fairs in which the company wants to participate, and has yet to confirm to us if it wants to be present.

Neither the VDA nor the Munich show gave concrete answers to questions about how many visitors they expect and which prominent companies will not be attending.

However, the organisers hope to be able to convince more exhibitors to attend the IAA again for the next edition in 2023. In 2019, 560,000 visitors had found their way to the IAA in Frankfurt, in 2017 it had been over 800,000.

The new IAA is also the first major international event to be held in Germany since the start of the pandemic. By contrast, the Munich Oktoberfest, traditionally held in the second half of September, has been cancelled for the second time.

In the city centre, the IAA is supposed to have a "happening, festival character," as trade fair manager Tobias Groeber says. But there are also sophisticated hygiene and security concepts for all areas of the IAA.


All-new Elantra Smartstream G1.6 launched at RM158,888

                PETALING JAYA: Hyundai-Sime Darby Motors (HDSM) has launched the all-new Elantra sedan with an introductory price of RM158,888 excluding insurance for Peninsular Malaysia.

Fully-imported from South Korea, the C-segment sedan features an innovative and exquisite jewel-cut exterior design, a new vehicle platform as well as an Intelligent Variable Transmission (IVT) that is mated with a Smartstream G1.6 petrol engine.

The new Elantra is also the first Hyundai model to be fitted with an intelligent transmission (IVT) that offers class-leading performance and fuel economy while the 1.6-litre Smartstream G1.6 engine delivers 123PS at 6,300rpm and a peak torque of 154Nm at 4,500rpm.

Built on Hyundai’s third-generation K3 vehicle platform, the Elantra's four drive modes of Smart, Comfort, Eco and Sport promises an exhilarating drive while keeping fuel consumption low.

With a 2,720mm wheelbase (+20mm), the new Elantra is also 4,650mm-long (+30mm), 1,825mm-wide (+25mm) and 1,420mm-tall (-15mm).

Despite having a sleeker roofline compared to its predecessor, the new Elantra's headroom is not compromised.

Its long wheelbase also provides a best-in-class of rear legroom while the wider track width means improved shoulder room in the front and rear.

Bootspace is 474-litre and 60/40 split folding rear seats enables big bulky items to be transported with ease.

The “immersive cocoon” interior envelops the driver to provide an airplane cockpit-like feel.

The large interface consisting of two harmoniously connected 10.25-inch Supervision TFT and an 8-inch floating display enhances the futuristic feel of the car.

Its 8-inch infotainment system displays a wide variety of useful information such as utility, driver assistance and navigation.

The Elantra’s segment-first wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay and multi-connection Bluetooth support also allow for two devices to be paired at the same time — one for phone calls and one for streaming audio.

Aside from six airbags and a host of other standard safety equipment, the Elantra is also fully equipped with Hyundai’s Smartsense package which includes:

* Blind-Spot Collision Avoidance Assist (BCA) with Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist (RCCA)
* Smart Cruise Control (SCC) makes highway and long-distance driving more comfortable
* Lane Keep Assist (LKA) and Lane Following Assist (LFA)
* Forward Collision Avoidance Assist
* Rear Occupant Alert
* Safe Exit Warning
* Driver Attention Warning
* Leading Vehicle Departure Alert

HDSM managing director Low Yuan Lung said the new Elantra was a game changer, not just in its looks but the entire package that comes with it.

"Its sporty elegant-look that comes with a high-tech premium interior and Hyundai’s Smartsense features make it an unbeatable C-segment car in its class,” he said.

The Elantra is offered with a five-year or 300,000km (whichever comes first) warranty.

It is available for viewing at all Hyundai showrooms nationwide.

For details, call Hyundai’s Customer Careline at 1-300-13-2000 or log on to www.hyundai.com.my.


Citroën announces it will make EVs available from 2020

                PARIS: Citroën promises electric autos for all in its new advertising campaign.

This is the latest installment in the brand's "hitchhiker" campaign, launched in 2018, which, this time around, turns a spotlight on the new C5 Aircross Hybrid.

We follow the hitchhiker as he travels from era to era, thumbing rides in a 2CV, a DS and a Mehari, before finally being picked up by a C5 Aircross Hybrid.

This latest model, which is a family-size SUV, is the French manufacturer's first plug-in hybrid. It is based on the C5 Aircross Hybrid Concept exhibited at the Paris Motor Show in 2018. The new vehicle is now available for order, with prices starting at €39,950, but is not expected to arrive in dealerships until mid-2020.

The campaign slogan is, "For 100 years, Citroën has made automobile available to all. In 2020, Citroën will make electric available to all."

In concrete terms, Citroën has decided that, starting next year, every new internal-combustion engine launch will be accompanied by an electric version, whether it be a plug-in hybrid for larger automobiles or an all-electric version for smaller ones. In so doing, the manufacturer will have electric versions for 100% of its range by 2025.

The campaign film, which was launched online and on social networks on Dec 19, will be broadcast on television from Dec 26.


This trick will help you avoid a car-door collision with a cyclist

It's always a good idea for the car driver to look over the shoulder that is closest to oncoming traffic. — dpa
BERLIN: One in every five accidents that result in serious injuries to a cyclist is caused by collisions with a car door that suddenly opens.

In order to minimize the risk of a collision with cyclists approaching from behind, drivers need to check more than their rear-view or side-view mirrors when getting out of a parked car.

It's always a good idea to look over the shoulder that is closest to oncoming traffic. A useful method for doing so is to reach across your body to open your driver-side door; in other words, open the door with your right hand if you're in a country that drives on the left side, and with your left if you drive on the right.

Since this is how the upper body naturally rotates, doing so will automatically turn your field of vision laterally and behind you.

For their part, cyclists should always keep a minimum distance of 1 metre from parked cars and should look for clues that the driver is about to get out, such as when other passengers are exiting.


540C Coupé is most affordable McLaren

SHANGHAI: The McLaren 540C Coupé is set to be launched at the Shanghai Motor Show.

The most affordable McLaren yet, the 540C Coupé joins the recently revealed 570S Coupé in the Sports Series as the brand brings its race derived DNA to a new audience and segment. These introductions bring the number of new McLarens launched in 2015 to four as the brand continues its rapid growth.

Globally available and priced from £126,000 (around RM682,000), the 540C Coupé can be pre-ordered now with deliveries scheduled in early 2016.

The 540C Coupé shares similarities with the models in the Super Series and Ultimate Series, including a light weight carbon fibre chassis and race-derived technologies.  It is fitted with a mid-mounted 3.8-litre twin turbocharged V8 engine which has been developed to be responsive and thrilling, even at low engine speeds. As its name suggests, the Sports Series dedicated application of the award-winning McLaren power unit generates 540PS at 7,500 rpm and 540Nm of torque at 3,500-6,500 rpm. With stop-start technology, it offers optimised levels of efficiency and a longer range suited to the typical usage of cars in this segment.

At the heart of the 540C, as with the 570S, is the unique carbon fibre MonoCell II chassis which has been newly designed with a greater focus on day-to-day usability, offering improved ingress to and egress from the cabin, along with class-leading occupant protection and safety. A dry weight of as low as 1,311 kg is achieved as a result of this lightweight structure and the use of aluminium body panels. This figure sees the 540C almost 150kg lighter than its closest competitor.

Power is delivered through the rear wheels via a seven-speed seamless shift gearbox (SSG) which, aided by the low weight of the 540C, sees the 0 to 100kph sprint completed in 3.5 seconds, 0 to 200kph in just 10.5 seconds, and on to a top speed of 320kph. Given this level of performance, 9.2l/100km on the EU combined cycle and emissions of just 258 g/km are an impressive achievement.

A subtly revised aerodynamic package and a dedicated wheel design mark out the 540C Coupé against the more powerful 570S Coupé. Unique aero blades below the front bumper channel cold, clean air through the lower bodywork and up over the sculpted bonnet, flanked by large LED headlamps.

At the rear, the diffuser sits between the twin exhausts which exit below the rear bumper. The aerodynamically-led styling of the Sports Series Coupé includes intricately designed dihedral doors which include the elegant floating door tendon. This design feature channels air along the length of the door into the two integrated air intakes mounted in the rear quarter panel. This creates a clean path for the air to flow along the bodywork with minimal drag, directing air to the flying buttresses at the rear of the cabin which optimise air flow over the rear deck to increase downforce levels and aid engine cooling. An integrated spoiler at the trailing edge of the rear deck provides optimal downforce.

The 540C Coupé is fitted with cast alloy wheels, available with silver or stealth finish, 19-inch at the front and 20-inch at the rear. These are fitted with Pirelli P Zero tyres as standard, which have been developed specifically for the Sports Series to offer high levels of performance in all conditions, with progressive levels of grip and a focus on comfort. The 540C retains the Formula 1-derived Brake Steer system, designed to aid cornering through the application of braking force to the inside rear wheel. This enables later braking into corners, and earlier application of power on exit.

The 540C features a newly-developed suspension system: it uses front and rear anti-rollbars Formula 1- style dual wishbones and independent adaptive dampers. The damper tuning has been revised on 540C, over 570S, with more focus on day-to-day road driving. Adaptive dampers offer control over bump and rebound settings using the familiar McLaren ‘Normal’, ‘Sport’ and ‘Track’ handling settings, with the Sports Series having its own unique damper settings. In ‘Normal’ mode, the system provides a refined yet engaging ride, while the ‘Sport’ and ‘Track’ settings allow a greater level of focus and engagement when required. Twin damper valves ensure precise control, while dual wishbone suspension provides optimised levels of ride quality and driver feedback.

The interior of the Sports Series has been created with a focus on space and ergonomics, offering great outward visibility and interior space for occupants and their belongings.  Organic curves carried inside from the exterior design bring delicate tension without aggression to ensure the cabin remains a welcoming environment.

Inside the cabin, the 540C Coupé is luxuriously appointed with leather upholstery to the seats, dashboard and lower doors as standard. The ‘floating’ centre console features a seven-inch IRIS touchscreen which controls all elements of the infotainment system. The air conditioning controls are also incorporated, as first seen on the McLaren P1, minimising switchgear in the cabin. The touchscreen also controls the standard DAB digital radio, as well as satellite navigation, Bluetooth telephony and media streaming, voice activation and the audio media player. The IRIS system also includes the electronic owner’s manual.

The McLaren 540C Coupé is the second model to join the Sports Series, and sits alongside the 570S Coupé.


Dacia enters Dakar Rally from 2025

                BUCHAREST: Dacia has confirmed that from 2025, it will compete as a manufacturer in the World Rally-Raid Championship and the Dakar Rally.

Before taking up the challenge of the 2025 season, Dacia prototypes would be put to the test as early as 2024 at the Rallye du Maroc.

The Romanian automaker said it would tap the skills of the Renault parent company and British motorsport and engineering group Prodrive for this project.

Prodrive has been involved in the Dakar Rally and Rally-Raids since 2020, taking part in the last three Dakar with cars designed and managed by their own teams, achieving second place overall in 2022 and 2023 with Sébastien Loeb.

Loeb and Cristina Gutiérrez Herrero have been picked to be the Dacia drivers.

The Dacia prototype would run on synthetic test fuel supplied by Aramco. Its fuel is made by combining renewable hydrogen with captured CO2, resulting in a lower-carbon fuel compatible with today’s engines.


BMW Oil Inclusive Programme available with Maybank Instalment Plan.

                PETALING JAYA: The BMW Oil Inclusive Programme  is now available for all BMW vehicles with Maybank Instalment plan. Maybank cardholders can now enjoy six to 12 months repayment period, through the Ezypay method, with a minimum spend of RM500.

The instalment plan is available for all aftersales transactions including Vehicle Service, Extension of Warranty and Service Packages, Repair, Body and Paint, Parts and Accessory, and Lifestyle items.

The BMW Oil Inclusive Programme allows BMW owners to extend the service for their vehicles within a set number of years or mileage period at a competitive price, with a choice of 5 Years/60,000km or 5 Years/100,000km.

Owners can enjoy a fixed price for the next 5 years and peace of mind as trained BMW Certified Technicians service their vehicles with the latest know-how, technology, and equipment. It also includes BMW Genuine Oil (Full Synthetic), BMW Oil Filter, and labour.

Catered for BMW vehicles without any active package with BMW or out of BMW Warranty and Service Package, this vehicle service interval is a Condition Based Service with an average of 10,000km service interval, which could differ by vehicle manufacturing date and user’s driving behaviour.

“We at BMW Group Malaysia are always in an ongoing pursuit of ways to enhance the sheer pleasure of a BMW ownership experience by providing quality initiatives. With this new offer, our goal is to affirm our initial sentiments for owners to enjoy their cars and peace of mind ownership experience even after the original service period,” said managing director and CEO of BMW Group Malaysia, Han Sang Yun.

For more information and purchase of the New BMW Oil Inclusive Programme, kindly get in touch or visit your preferred BMW Authorised Dealership today.


Win a Kia Cerato

                SHAH ALAM: Those who book a Kia car or test drive any cars at Setia City Mall, Setia Alam from April 1 to 5, 2015 still stand a chance to win the grand prize – a 2.0-litre Kia Cerato.

Naza Kia Malaysia chief operating officer Datuk Syed Abdull Hafiz Syed Abu Bakar said, "This year, with Kia On Tour, we hope that we can bring the Kia driving experience to all Malaysians, which we hope Kia enthusiasts all around Malaysia will take the chance to get to know more about Kia products currently in the market such as Kia Cerato, Picanto, Rio, Optima K5, Sorento and Sportage.”

Kia On Tour will also be held from April 3 – 5 in Alor Star Mall, Amanjaya Mall Sungai Petani, and Kota Bharu Mall.

The roadshow will also be at City Square Johor Bahru (April 24 – 26), AEON Ipoh Station 18 (April 28 – May 3), 1 Utama Shopping Centre Bandar Utama (May 13 – 17), The Spring Mall Kuching (May 22 – 24).


Land Rover comes up with see-through trailer concept

LONDON: Land Rover is developing a see-through trailer concept that would completely remove the blind spot created when towing a caravan or trailer. This transparent view would allow the driver to clearly see vehicles coming up behind and help driver confidence by improving visibility whilst manoeuvring.

The prototype ‘Transparent Trailer’ system combines the video feed from the vehicle’s existing surround camera system - which includes the reversing camera and a camera on each wing mirror - with a video from a digital wireless camera that is placed on the rear of the trailer or caravan. The video feeds are then combined to create the live video images that make the trailer behind appear see-through. When the trailer is coupled to the towing car, the live video feed would automatically appear in the rear view mirror inside the vehicle.

“When you are overtaking it is instinctive to check your mirrors, but if you are towing your vision is often restricted with large blind spots," said Jaguar Land Rover research and technology director Dr Wolfgang Epple.

"Our Transparent Trailer project is researching how we could offer a view out of the vehicle unrestricted by your trailer, no matter what its size or shape. Our prototype system offers a very high quality video image with no distortion of other cars or obstructions. This means the driver would have exactly the right information to make safe and effective decisions when driving or manoeuvring, making towing safer and less stressful.”

When reversing, the driver would also be able to view the camera feed from the back of the caravan or trailer through the infotainment screen, with guidance lines calibrated to help reverse both car and trailer.

Another Land Rover advancement is Cargo Sense, an innovation for an in-car trailer monitoring system designed to optimise cargo loading for safer towing. The prototype system combines a remote video camera inside the trailer and a mat of pressure sensors on the floor, that both link wirelessly to the towing vehicle.

As well as helping customers load cargo evenly and uniformly, the pressure sensitive mat would detect if the load of boxes, antique furniture, a classic car or even a valuable horse is moving around the trailer in an unexpected or abnormal way whilst travelling.

The system would send a "Check Cargo" warning to the dashboard to alert the driver to an issue with the cargo, or a horse, before it becomes serious. Live video footage from the camera inside the trailer could then be made available through the infotainment screen in the vehicle.  A passenger would be able to view the footage whilst the vehicle is in motion. Alternatively, the driver could view the video while stationary to assess the situation in the trailer from the safety of the driver’s seat.

“Many of our customers tow valuable cargoes for business and pleasure, so we are researching a range of technologies that would enhance the towing experience and make it safer," said Dr Epple, who once worked for Malaysian car maker Proton.


Porsche Ventures invests in start-up Griiip

                STUTTGART: Porsche is expanding its start-up portfolio with a minority stake in Griiip.

The start-up has developed a cloud-based data platform that enables the transmission of motorsport data directly from the racing car, and then both analyses and visualises it in the cloud.

Griiip introduces a new dimension of user engagement, data analysis and viewing experience aimed at bringing the excitement of motorsport to every level of end-user – drivers, teams and fans.

The Israel-based start-up set out on a mission to make motorsport more accessible by providing new and innovative ways for racing organisations, leagues, franchises and car manufacturers to engage with fans.
 Meschke.
The company’s personalised digital media platform, RAMP (Racing Media Platform), offers a unique approach to fan engagement with the aim of attracting younger audiences that seek a more immersive and personalised viewing experience via digital mediums.

The solution includes direct access to raw data from the vehicle electronic units through a hardware component known as the Red Box.

The information is extracted during races and used to create data-driven products including live content. Personalised content production made possible by RAMP allows viewers to access drivers’ profiles and compare their performance in real-time in an innovative way.

This can include a range of datasets such as driver stress levels, the vehicle’s battery status, predicted lap times or tyre data. The information is collected and displayed in charts in real-time to allow viewers to compare driver performance.

“Motorsport has always been part of Porsche's DNA and digitisation is part of our Strategy 2030. This investment is another exciting and promising step to transfer our heritage into the future,” says Lutz Meschke, deputy chairman of the Executive Board and Member of the Executive Board for Finance and IT at Porsche.

Porsche Motorsport recently conducted a successful proof of concept to verify the company’s technology.

"Griiip offers a future-oriented and innovative motorsport data platform which connects all stakeholders (up to mixed reality races) and creates a new era of motor racing viewing experience,” said Fritz Enzinger, vice president of Motorsport at Porsche.

Griiip was founded in 2015 by Tamir Plachinsky and Gil Zakay in Petah Tikva. Griiip has already signed cooperation contracts with several racing series.


China's car market seen rebounding from virus as lockdowns ease

A carrier trailer transporting newly made cars at a port in Dalian, Liaoning province, last May. — Reuters
BEIJING/FRANKFURT: China’s auto market, the world’s biggest, will gradually recover and remain stable for a long period despite short-term pressure from the coronavirus pandemic, officials said today.

The statement came as executives from Mercedes-Benz and Volkswagen said demand is rebounding in China after restrictions on social life were eased and dealerships re-opened.

China’s auto sales dropped 79% from a year earlier in February due to the pandemic. However, the situation was temporary and didn’t affect long-term trends in the industry, Cai Ronghua, a senior official at National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC), told a news conference.

He noted the broader impact of any further downturn in the sector.

“If auto production and sales continue to decline, it will not only affect the industry itself, but also affect the resumption of production in other industries, and may even affect the smooth operation of the entire economy,” Cai said, adding auto production had not so far been affected by global auto parts supply disruption.

Separately, the Ministry of Ecology and Environment is considering postponing the implementation of new gasoline emission standards in some provinces, Wu Xianfeng, a senior official there, said.

Volkswagen, the world’s largest carmaker and China’s best- selling manufacturer, said showroom traffic during the last weekend of March had rebounded to year-earlier levels after its dealerships re-opened as measures to contain the pandemic were eased.

The SAIC Volkswagen factory in Changsha resumed operations this week, putting all but one of VW Group’s 33 car and component plants in China back in business, VW said.

Volkswagen Group China CEO Stephan Wöllenstein said: “Our dealerships are seeing customers on the showroom floors once again. There are growing signs of recovery, with a good chance that the Chinese car market could reach last year’s level in early summer.”

Daimler, which owns the Mercedes-Benz brand, said on Wednesday China demand had recovered to near pre-crisis levels and its factory in Beijing had resumed production running a two-shift system.

“In China and South Korea our dealerships are fully open and we see a significant increase in demand there. That gives us confidence,” Daimler board member Britta Seeger said.

In addition to its Chinese plants, Daimler wants to resume production at its German plants in Untertuerkheim, Hamburg und Berlin on April 20, followed by a ramp up at its plants in Sindelfingen und Bremen.


E-hailing drivers don't have to change status of vehicles to e-hailing private vehicles

                PUTRAJAYA: E-hailing drivers have been given the flexibility of not changing their vehicle category from individual private vehicle to e-hailing private vehicle (AH), says Transport Minister Anthony Loke Siew Fook.

He said the move was decided following discussions between the Transport Ministry and the Road Transport Department (JPJ) on Tuesday after receiving complaints from e-hailing drivers, especially those from Grab.

Previously, e-hailing drivers had to change the usage code of their vehicles from the individual private vehicle code to the AH code at JPJ as one of the requirements to be an e-hailing driver.

“I have talked to the JPJ, and we have agreed to do away with this requirement.

“This means e-hailing drivers can still keep their vehicles as individual private cars,” he told reporters after a meeting with JPJ here on Tuesday.

However, Loke said vehicles used for e-hailing services should have a public service vehicle (PSV) licence, passenger insurance, e-hailing sticker and e-hailing vehicle permit (EVP) from the Land Public Transport Agency.


Bugatti ups its game with Chiron Super Sport after Rimac Nevera debut

                FRANKFURT:  Croation manufacturer Rimac has only just just presented the "fastest car in the world" with the electric Nevera, and now Bugatti wants to do one better.

The French musclemaker is once again raising the bar for supercars, announcing a new Chiron as a Super Sport at the beginning of next year.

It brings with it the power of 16 cylinders and increases horsepower by 100 to a colossal 1,600hp. Hold down the pedal and the car won't stop accelerating until it hits 440kph, Bugatti says. Up to now, the limit was at a mere 420kph.

The higher top speed is achieved not only by the more powerful engine, but also by new aerodynamics. Chiron oglers will notice the changes above all at the rear, which has been stretched out by 25 cm.

According to the VW subsidiary, this should ensure that the Chiron remains very "neutral and calm" even beyond 350kph, thus offering high-speed drivers a sense of safety.

However, the price of the two-seater is as spectacular as its performance figures. According to Bugatti, the car is not available for less than €3.2 million  (RM16mil) in its home market. That's around US$2,400 (RM9,882) per unit of horsepower.

Bugatti's new top model is also a response to the electric super sports car Nevera, which the Croatian manufacturer Rimac had only just dubbed the fastest in the world.

This reaches 412kph at full throttle and can manage a sprint from 0 to 100kph in less than 2 seconds. This takes half a second off the standard Chiron.

Bugatti has not yet given a sprint value for the Super Sport. Rimac is also ahead in terms of performance with 1,904hp. Only in terms of price does the French take the lead in the car quartet: Rimac sells its electric racer for as little as €2.4 million (RM12mil).


Porsche defies car industry gloom with record sales

                FRANKFURT: Porsche AG shrugged off widespread industry malaise, reporting record deliveries for last year and predicting that its first all-electric model Taycan will foster further growth in 2020.

Global deliveries rose 10% to 280,800 cars in 2019, driven mainly by strong consumer appetite for the Macan and Cayenne sport utility vehicles, Porsche said Monday in a statement.

"We’re optimistic that we can sustain the high demand in 2020,” sales chief Detlev von Platen said in the statement. Sales momentum should benefit from "the introduction of some new models and full order books for the Taycan,” he said.

The most profitable division of Volkswagen AG, the world’s largest automaker, is entering a new era with this year’s rollout of the Taycan four-door sedan, which challenges Tesla Inc.’s Model S.

Porsche’s cachet has been shaped for decades by fast sports cars with roaring combustion engines, and success of the costly expansion into electric cars is mission-critical for the German manufacturer amid stricter emission regulations in key markets.

Sales rose 8% last year in both China and the US, Porsche’s two largest markets. It sold 86,752 cars in China, where luxury rides have been less affected by the waning demand hurting the overall market, and 61,568 cars in the US. In Germany, sales advanced 15% to 31,618 vehicles.


Toyota Gazoo Racing Festival 2019 - former airport becomes motorsport playground

                PETALING JAYA: Bandar Malaysia will become the backdrop for the most unique stopover yet in the Toyota Gazoo Racing Festival and Toyota Vios Challenge racing series with an airstrip being transformed into a racing track for the very first time ever.

The former airport and home of the Royal Malaysian Air Force in Sungai Besi will play host to Round 2 of Malaysia’s premier street racing series from Nov 9-10 with free admissions for members of the public.

The 1,199m-long runway has become a 1.7km circuit with the aircraft hangars housing the motorsports and automotive festival.

“As a street racing series, one of the most challenging tasks is to find a venue that is not only large enough to accommodate both the racing circuit and festival ground but more importantly accessible and as close as we can to fans and spectators. These challenges, however, also
present us with the unique opportunity to explore venues never before used or envisioned as a racing circuit,” said UMW Toyota Motor chief motorsports officer AkioTakeyama.

“In the case of Round 2, a former airport is as unique as it gets and the location as central as you can be in Kuala Lumpur,” he added.

Construction of the Bandar Malaysia circuit took approximately three weeks to complete and works involved transporting, positioning and interlocking of hundreds of blocks of four-tonne concrete barriers as well as debris fencing to form the inner and outer parameters of the track.

The track must also be built to FIA (the Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile) safety specifications.

“Street racing brings out the best in Malaysian racers. The absence of run-off areas makes it extremely unforgiving, more intimidating and even more difficult to master. It requires 110 per cent concentration, focus and precision from the drivers. For spectators, a street race is even
more exciting visually as they are able to be closer to the action,” said Takeyama.

In three seasons of the Toyota Vios Challenge series, the race has been held at various stadium and exhibition grounds in Terengganu, Johor, Penang and the Klang Valley, including the Sepang International Circuit.

Emulating street races such as the historic annual Macau Grand Prix, the Toyota Vios Challenge is no less exciting.

More importantly, it provides drivers with a more challenging race, an even greater level playing field and the excitement of driving on a variety of tracks - contributing to the honing of a racer's technical and driving skills.

Meanwhile, UMW Toyota Motor president Ravindran K. said that the prospect of transforming an airstrip into a full-blown racing track is a manifestation of both Toyota and its Gazoo Racing philosophy of breaking tradition and pushing the boundaries.

“Innovation is not only reflected in the vehicles we produce, but it underlines the way we think and do things, and in the case of the Toyota Gazoo Racing Festival, it means turning the least expected venues into tracks to bring motor-racing closer to the masses,” said Ravindran.

The second round of the Toyota Vios Challenge will feature two days of racing involving three categories of Promotional (celebrity), amateur (Sporting) and professional drivers (Super Sporting).

Ten local celebrities will be competing in the Promotional Class of the Toyota Vios Challenge and will include the likes of Shawn Lee, Shukri Yahaya, Diana Danielle, Nabil Ahmad, Janna Nick, Khai Bahar, Wany Hasrita, Nabila Razali, Ain Edruce and Syafiq Kyle.

Both Shawn and Wany will start with one race win each under their belts after winning the opening two races of Season 3 in Kuala Terengganu last month.

“Round 2 is going to be very exciting because we will be competing on a new track. There’s really no way of preparing for it in terms of setting up the car until we get a chance to drive on the track during the official practice session and evaluate the surface condition and overall flow
of the circuit. From what I gather so far, it’s going to be quite a fast track,” said Shawn.

Among the big names in Malaysian motorsports driving in both the Sporting and Super Sporting classes include Season 1 and 2
Sporting champions Brendan Paul Anthony and Brendon Lim.

Also, there will be Season 1 and 2 Super Sporting champions - Tengku Djan Ley and Boy Wong as well as experienced drivers such as Kenny Lee, William Ho, Mark Darwin, Kenneth Koh, Sutan Mustafa and Syafiq Ali.

The Sporting Class will also feature 15-year-old Hayden Haikal.

For Super Sporting Class driver Kenny Lee, the first practice session is critical to uncover much of the unknown.

“I have never had the opportunity to visit Bandar Malaysia in the past and therefore I don’t know what the surface condition is like. The first thing everyone will be looking into is certainly the final track layout and finding the fastest racing line around the track. We’ll also have to carefully look at the surface conditions especially in the braking zones because you never know, some areas can be a bit bumpy, slippery or even dusty,” he said.

Tengku Djan Ley shared the same sentiment, saying that drivers will, in essence, have only about 90 minutes throughout the race weekend to learn the new track.

“We have a track walk on Thursday evening and the official practice starts on Friday, so essentially you only have a couple of laps to try and decipher the entire track and obtain enough information that will go into setting up the race car. Those who are able to do this will have an
advantage,” said Tengku Djan.

“There’s really not much that can be done to the set-up apart from experimenting with different tyre pressures, suspension settings and alignment combinations, but these small changes do make a big difference on the track.”

Sporting Class driver Kenneth Koh said the prospect of racing on an airstrip is both exciting and creates suspense.

“With racing, it’s always about the surface conditions and whether it offers drivers the desired levels of grip, but none of us has ever experienced driving on an airstrip and this does create some suspense,” said Koh.

“I am both excited and nervous at the same time, but I am certain that Round 2 will be a very interesting race. Once again, everyone will be competing on a level playing field.”

For race fans and spectators, the Toyota Gazoo Racing Festival will showcase Toyota’s fleet of vehicles, test drive sessions, a drift performance by professional Japanese drivers, a concert, a bey blade and racing simulator challenge, and the sale of merchandise.

Visitors to the festival will also be able to get up close and personal with the newly-launched Toyota GR Supra.

Entrance is free of charge and the event is from 9.00am to 6.00pm on Saturday and Sunday (Nov 9-10).


Hino Truck hits reliability milestone

                PETALING JAYA: A Hino truck operated by courier company GD Express Sdn Bhd (GDEX) has reached one million kilometres without the need to go through an engine overhaul, and this was celebrated in a Reliability Certificate award ceremony organised by Hino Motors Sales Malaysia Sdn Bhd (HMSM).

HMSM managing director Atsushi Uchiyama presented the Reliability Certificate to GDEX, in recognition of the truck's reliability and the courier company's steadfast maintenance of the truck.

“The reliability of a truck is a major concern for business owners. Travelling for one million kilometres without the need to undergo an engine overhaul not only proves the reliability of our truck but also shows the credibility of Hino Total Support Value,” said Uchiyama.

The truck had been operating since 2006 on long and line haul routes of Ayer Keroh, Malacca and the Southern region.

GDEX managing director Teong Teck Lean said, "Good maintenance of the truck includes on-time servicing at Hino authorised service centres and using Hino genuine parts."

Teong also expressed his satisfaction with driver training programmes conducted at Hino Total Support Customer Centre (HTSCC) in Sendayan, Negeri Sembilan and said the drivers’ skill also played an important role in truck reliability.


Govt receives 21 proposals for third national car project

                KUALA LUMPUR:  The government has received 21 proposals from both local and foreign firms for the third national car project, up from the previous 14 announced earlier, said International Trade and Industry (MITI) Deputy Minister, Dr Ong Kian Ming.

Ong said the increased number of proposals showed the new national car project had not been impacted by the United Kingdom-base Dyson's decision to sett up an new electric car manufacturing plant in Singapore.

“I think Malaysians should not worry too much about Dyson's decision, as we have not lost out to Singapore (in this case),” he told a press conference after launching the Business Excellence Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Forum here, today.

According to Ong, the electric car factory could in fact benefit Malaysian companies by offering them participation opportunities in the value chain.

He also said more good news pertaining to Dyson's investment would be made by MITI Minister Darell Leiking on his return from an official visit to Bangkok.

Meanwhile, Ong said many industry players were looking forward to the Industry 4.0 Policy expected to be launched by Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad on Oct 31.

“This is something many industry players are anticipating, to see how it can be synergised with the 2019 Budget,” he added.

Meanwhile, earlier in his speech, Ong said from 2014 to 2017, Malaysia's labour productivity grew by 3.5 per cent, while employment rose by 1.5 per cent.

“This encouraging trend needs to be sustained, with initiatives focusing on the competitiveness of Malaysia's exports, fostering regional integration, adoption of new technology and developing human capital, as well as organisational excellence, essential prerequisites in preparing for the future,” he added.


Toyota producing medical face shields in Japan

                TOYOTA CITY: Toyota Motor Corp will produce 40,000 medical face shields per month starting April 27.

Toyota plans to further expand production to 70,000 pieces per month at a rate of 3,600 pieces per day.

Toyota Group companies now producing medical face shields include Toyota Motor East Japan and Toyoda Gosei Co Ltd, Daihatsu Motor Co Ltd, and Hino Motors Ltd.

Additionally, Toyota Industries Corp plans to produce 10,000 units per month at 500 units per day from April 29, and Toyota Auto Body Co Ltd is also looking at starting production of medical face shields from mid-May.

The Toyota Group has positioned this initiative for supporting the around-the-clock efforts of the frontlines of the medical sector, who are working hard to diagnose and treat patients for Covid-19, as part of Toyota's Kokoro Hakobu Project.

Going forward, the Toyota Group intends to prioritise the allocation of the medical face shields it produces to medical facilities and local governments.


Militem introduces FEROX500 4X4 vehicle

MONZA: Italy's Militem has rolled out the FEROX500 4X4 vehicle, which features a 6.4-litre V8 Hemi making 464hp.

The launch was held to mark the opening of Militem's first dealership in Düsseldorf, Germany.

The FEROX500 is priced from €149,500 (around RM700,000). Like all Militem models, it is accompanied by a European warranty that extends to 36 months or 100,000km.

The FEROX500 is the maximum expression of Militem’s sporty vision and delivers high performance, both on-road and off, boasting a 0-100kph acceleration of just 4.5 seconds.

The FEROX500 comes from a line-up that includes the FEROX and the FEROX-T pick-up, a Sport Utility Truck (SUT) that combines all the benefits of an SUV with that of a pick-up; both are available also in the ADVENTURE version.

The FEROX500 is the fifth model from Militem’s luxury range and its engine is derived from the Jeep Wrangler Rubicon 392 sold in the US.

Torque from the V8 reaches 637Nm at 4,300rpm, and 75% of the twist is delivered low down in the rev range. Transmission is an 8-speed automatic TorqueFlite controlled by paddles set behind the steering wheel, a system already introduced by Militem on the FEROX-T.

FEROX500 provides, on the one hand, 40% more performance than the 3.6-litre V6 FEROX and boasts supercar acceleration. On the other hand, it maintains all the characteristics of a true offroader thanks to adjustable suspension re-engineered by Militem.

The highlight is the braking system, totally redefined by Militem in collaboration with Powerbrake – among the leaders in the sector.

Up front are 370x34 mm slotted, semi-floating discs with radial expansion and contraction featuring 72 ventilation channels and a surface coating. Teamed with the discs are turned aluminum radial calipers machined from billets with internal fluid crossovers and 6 pistons crafted from stainless steel.

Completing the set-up are high-performance brake pads and aircraft grade cables in low-expansion braided steel.

In the rear, the brakes adopt 4-piston calipers in combination with 370x32 mm discs, also featuring high-performance brakes and tubing in low-expansion braided steel.

Standard lightweight hybrid forged wheels are 22-inch but customers can size down to 20-inch. The vehicle can be fitted with road or all-terrain tyres.

Its off-roading capability is attributed to a new suspension system.

The suspension set-up can be modified to tackle any type of surface thanks to the greater ground clearance provided by the Militem 2” Lift-Kit. Militem Performance Shocks dampeners, feature separate twin gas and dual-effect hydraulics. The suspension is built from aluminum and coated in ccarbon-fibre. The system also includes a torsion bar that can be calibrated and is an efficient steering damper.

As for the cabin, it has been designed for comfort and luxury, with switchgear that are within easy reach.

The ergonomic seats have a racing derived shell shape, with incorporated headrests and they are wrapped in nappa leather and Alcantara.

The leather finish can also be extended to the dashboard, instrument panel, steering wheel boss, gear knob, door panels and luggage compartment lining, pairing well with the carbon-fiber and all-black inside.

Another Militem first is the interior pack in glossy carbon-fibre: door handle inserts, the steering wheel and console come in carbon-fiber.

The Militem-designed steering wheel derives from racing and have a flattened bottom and ‘bullseye’ at the top to have the wheels always aligned when pushing the gas pedal hard. Here, there is the possibility to mix things up with supple leather, Alcantara and carbon-fibre.


New policies and studies needed to develop EV sector, says Dr Wee

                PETALING JAYA: Malaysia needs to conduct more studies and implement new policies to allow for better development of the electric vehicle (EV) sector in the country, says Transport Minister Datuk Seri Dr Wee Ka Siong.

Dr Wee, who received a courtesy call from Alpha Ess Co Ltd chief executive and co-founder Alfred Wang today, said with EVs becoming more prevalent globally, it was inevitable that they enter the mainstream of development in Malaysia.

"I received a courtesy call from Alfred at my office in Putrajaya today. We exchanged views on EV development in Malaysia and the world.

"I shared with him that for the EV sector to flourish in Malaysia, we need to look into implementing new policies that address the various issues surrounding EVs," he said in a Facebook posting.

Dr Wee said Malaysia needed to develop and improve the infrastructure required for the EV sector to grow.

"With the emphasis for various transportation sectors to go green, it is time for us to conduct in-depth studies on the implementation plans of introducing more charging stations in public places, including shopping malls and highways, and on the disposal of old batteries.

"I believe Alpha ESS, as an energy storage solution company and service provider, will be able to share its vast experience in this relatively new industry with us," he said.

Also present during the meeting were Alpha ESS vice president and co-founder Zoe Zhang and its general manager for Malaysia Arthur Liu.


New DS5 flagship model arrives at RM198,888

                KUALA LUMPUR: The latest Citroen DS5 has landed and the brand's flagship model is sporting more goodies and new styling cues.

Priced on-the-road with GST and insurance at RM198,888, the new DS5 comes in five colour options of Artense Grey, Noir Perla Nera, Bleu Encre, Pearl White and Whisper Purple.

It is also accompanied by a five-year or 120,000km (whichever comes first) warranty along with a 24-hour Roadside Assistance service as well as exclusive access to the Sky Lounge at Subang Airport - courtesy of Naza.

Under the hood lies a 1.6–litre turbocharged engine with direct injection, mated to a six-speed automatic gearbox, that produces 165PS at 6,000rpm and 240Nm of torque, while fuel consumption on the combined cycle is 5.9 litres per 100km  and CO2 emissions at 135g/km.

Externally, all Citroen badges have been removed in an attempt to establish itself as a new stand-alone brand.

The refreshed DS5 now sports a new front fascia with a chrome hexagonal frame grille with the DS monogramme in the centre, while flanked by xenon headlights and LED daytime running lights.

Inside, there's that driver-centric aviation-inspired cockpit style that's being made available in Sand Beige or a new Basalt Black colour for the leather upholstery as well as a new colour touchdrive interface with Mirror Screen that lets users mirror smartphone content onto the screen.

There's also the six-speaker (with boot-mounted subwoofer) Denon Hi-Fi audio system with a USB/iPod and Bluetooth connectivity.

Other features include a colour heads-up display on a transparent blade, keyless entry with push-start button, electric front seats with memory
function and an electric parking brake.

The new DS5 also comes with an 18” alloy rims, automatic headlights and wipers and external mirrors with integrate turn signals.

As for safety, there's six airbags, anti-lock braking system, electronic stability program (ESP), emergency brake assist, electronic brakeforce distribution and dynamic stability control.

"The new DS 5 is the flagship model that introduces the brand’s new stand-alone identity with its impressive new front end with avant-garde styling", said Naza Corporation Holdings group chief operating officer (Automotive Group) Datuk Samson Anand George.


US expands VW pollution-skirting probe to other carmakers

                WASHINGTON: The US government has expanded its investigation of pollution-skirting devices in diesel vehicles to other manufacturers after Volkswagen admitted it used them to thwart US environmental standards.

The Environmental Protection Agency said Monday that it will screen for so-called “defeat devices” in diesel vehicles on the road that are produced by other manufacturers. The California Air Resources Board is a partner in the investigation, an EPA spokesperson said in an email to AFP.

The EPA declined to identify the automakers it is looking at.

The expanded investigation came in the wake of Friday’s announcement by the EPA and the California authorities that Volkswagen, Europe’s biggest automaker, had admitted it equipped 482,000 cars in the United States with the illegal defeat devices.

The covert software device turns off emissions controls when the car is being driven and turns them on only when the car is undergoing an emissions test.

The vehicles affected are four-cylinder VW and Audi diesel cars built since 2008.

Under the US Clean Air Act, fines of up to US$37,500 may be imposed on each car, meaning VW could be fined more than US$18 billion.

In Germany, currently hosting the Frankfurt motor show vaunting the industry’s strengths and environmental credentials, the government launched an investigation into whether Volkswagen or other carmakers are doing anything similar in Germany or Europe.

Transport Minister Alexander Dobrindt told the Bild daily that he had asked Germany’s Federal Motor Transport Authority “to immediately have specific and extensive tests conducted on all Volkswagen diesel models by independent experts.”

South Korea’s Yonhap news agency said that authorities there, too, would conduct emissions tests on three Volkswagen car models in mid-October to check for similar deception.

Beyond the potential fines and lawsuits, and the billions of euros that evaporated in Volkswagen’s stock market value as its shares plunged 18.19 percent to 133 euros (US$148.80), wiping out more than US$15 billion, the company faces a potentially crippling blow to its reputation.

The EPA said that the agency had not issued a formal recall for the VW vehicles but expects to “compel” the company to issue a recall to reduce the emissions impacts of those vehicles.

“Depending on the complexity of the repair and the lead time needed to obtain the necessary components, it could take up to one year to identify corrective actions, develop a recall plan, and issue recall notices,” the US agency said.


UK to unveil battery plant strategy in bid to retain carmakers

                LONDON: The UK is poised to unveil plans to boost green manufacturing, just as it seeks to lure investment in a new battery plant from Jaguar Land Rover parent Tata Group.

The government’s "Advanced Manufacturing Plan” will form part of the UK response to US President Joe Biden’s US$369 billion package of green subsidies and tax credits, three people familiar with the plan said.

Ministers including Energy Secretary Grant Shapps have expressed concerns that the American plan - and the European Union response to it - risked triggering protectionism.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s government is seeking to address the danger to Britain’s green industries posed by business incentives abroad which threaten to draw investment away from the UK as it gets squeezed between two larger economic powers.

Tata’s decision will provide an early test of post-Brexit Britain’s ability to attract flagship investments.

The Indian conglomerate is nearing a decision to pick Spain or the UK for a battery plant that will supply Jaguar - a British automaker.

But one UK official said there are concerns Spain will win out, and an industry official said Spanish authorities are convinced they’ve clinched the investment, while cautioning that nothing is set in stone.

UK officials have also raised fears that Drax Group Plc may divert £2 billion of planned investment in carbon capture to the US.

Critical minerals

All officials familiar with the matter spoke with Bloomberg on condition of anonymity because neither the UK government’s plans, nor Tata’s decisions have been made public.

When it comes to stimulating green investment, Treasury officials have privately conceded they can’t come close to matching Biden’s measures.

And while they concede the UK doesn’t have a significant green manufacturing base to protect, they are increasingly worried potential investment may be diverted to the US.

Ministers, led by Business and Trade Secretary Kemi Badenoch are still working through the details of the manufacturing plan, but measures are likely to center on deregulation until funding commitments are made by Chancellor of the Exchequer Jeremy Hunt in his Autumn Statement, one person said.

The new UK plan will focus on securing supplies of critical minerals, as well as battery and electric vehicle production, two people said. Badenoch is also working to reduce energy costs for those industries, they said.

‘Green Day’

It will form the centrepiece of what’s being described internally as "Green Day,” which has been penciled in for the end of March.

That’s also likely to feature an updated Energy Security Strategy, the launch of the UK’s nuclear power plan, and a response to a recent review which criticized the government for not doing enough to invest in projects that benefit the economy and climate, people said.

The attempt to attract Tata follows the collapse of homegrown battery hopeful Britishvolt earlier this year.

Last month, its administrators selected Australian startup Recharge Industries as the buyer for the majority of the insolvent firm’s business and assets.

Recharge says it plans to focus on building stationary batteries that are used to store energy first, before branching out into electric vehicle cell manufacturing.

In a potential boost to the domestic auto industry, BMW AG said this week it’s making progress on securing subsidies from the UK to build electric MINI models at its Oxford factory.

The Conservatives have been in power since 2010, and have been criticized by the Labour opposition for overseeing a decline in manufacturing.

Former Prime Minister Theresa May published an industrial strategy in late 2017, but her successor, Boris Johnson, scrapped it in early 2021.


BMW Group opens largest RDC in South Korea

                SEOUL: BMW Group Korea officially opened its new Regional Distribution Center (RDC) in Anseong, Gyeonggi-do, South Korea - the largest among all of the German carmaker's global national sales companies.

After having invested KRW130bil (RM49bil), the new centre is effectively the company's largest logistics hub and has been operating for the last 14 months after its groundbreaking ceremony in March 2016.

The new BMW RDC covers a total area of about 57,000 square meters on a site totaling 211,500 square meters in Joil-ri, Yangseong-myeon, Anseong-si, Gyeonggi-do.

It is approximately three-times the size of any existing distribution center and 30-times larger than a football field - the largest among all of BMW’s global RDCs with the exception of the headquarters in Munich, Germany.

The new facility comprises of a total of six buildings including a main warehouse, two storage areas for hazardous goods, storage for pallets, a welcome house and a security building, a large parking lot and an artificial marsh together with convenience facilities for the employees, such as a park, cafeteria, a walking trail and a welcome centre.

The RDC is located in the southwestern part of the greater Seoul metropolitan area - being within an hour's drive from Incheon International Airport as well as Pyeongtaek Port, and has quick connections with four major expressways — the Jungbu, Pyeongtaek–Jecheon, Seohaean, and Yeongdong.

In addition, when the Eurasian railway line starts its operation in 2019, the railway route will be added to the existing air and maritime transportation links.

Accordingly, the speed and stability of parts supply is expected to increase.

The BMW RDC has also set up a strategy to strengthen cooperation with a number of countries including China, Japan and Malaysia where BMW Group national sales companies are also located, and thus improve its status as a key logistics hub in the Asia–Pacific region.

Faster parts supply will help lead to reduced repair times for the benefit of customers

The number of parts in storage at the new BMW RDC is approximately 75,000 - more than double the volume in an existing RDC with 35,000.

In addition, compared to the existing distribution center in Icheon, the parts loading rate has been optimized from 75% to 95%, ensuring efficient handling of a large amount of parts.

With the part types in storage further diversified and more efficient logistics system implemented, lead-times to each dealership will be minimized and parts delivery times will be shortened.

This is naturally expected to reduce overall repair times for customers and in addition, the emergency and same-day delivery services, which are already provided to each dealership, will be expanded.

“With the opening of the new RDC, we have secured an expanded logistics system to successfully supply two million parts a year to our dealers and customers,” said BMW Group parts logistics management vice president Wolfgang Baumann at the BMW RDC opening ceremony.

In line with its expanded scale, the parts processing capacity of the new BMW Group Korea RDC has been improved by more than three times compared to the previous RDC by 12 docks each for both inbound and outbound operations of the warehouse along with four extension docks.

As for parts storage, approximately 86,000 shelves have been installed to secure a sufficient loading area.

In addition, for the ultimate data protection against unexpected accidents, the IT system has been fortified with redundant wiring and backup power supply for all electric systems throughout the buildings, while the state-of-the-art RF scanner improves the system even further.

Moreover, ergonomic designs have been extensively incorporated to protect the health of employees working at the site with the floors meeting AR1 requirements for surface abrasion resistance (British Standards 8204) and guarantees a lifespan of more than 30 years.

In consideration of the health of workers, dust-free materials were used to create a pleasant working environment.

All lighting in the facilities have been equipped with motion sensors that automatically activate and deactive as people walk by, helping to lower energy consumption by approximately 40%.

At the same time, the dual heating system will minimize temperature differences between the floors and high ceilings to maintain an optimal temperature all year round.

Fire prevention has also been thoroughly prepared with 13,000 ESFR (Early Suppression Fast Response) sprinkler heads installed throughout all warehouses for early suppression of any fire, and all structures were built using non-flammable mineral wool panels.

Furthermore, for all firefighting devices installed throughout the entire RDC including fire shutters and screens, only UL and FM certified products were used, while 900 tons of water has been stored underground for an emergency situation.

In particular, the new RDC boasts an eco-friendly green zone with a rape flower garden, a the garden zone is packed with 21,000 trees including King cherry, birch, Japanese cornel, and dawn redwood.

The new RDC is expected to generate direct and indirect benefits by creating approximately 600 jobs following the completion of the warehouse, a site expansion to a scale of 31,000 square meters in total area is scheduled.

“The new RDC will enable us to provide premium customer service as it supplies parts swiftly and effectively not only in the capital region, but also across the country. It will soon advance to be a new global logistics hub,” said BMW Group Korea CEO Dr. H.J. Kim.

Meanwhile, the company is focusing on infrastructure investment in Korea for the Korean society and consumers, such as building the BMW Driving Center, the only comprehensive automotive cultural complex in the world, the world's fifth R&D Center, and the largest RDC in Asia.


Used car segment thriving in Malaysia

                PETALING JAYA: The used car industry is on-track to register double-digit growth in sales this year, backed by higher online transactions and better consumer sentiment.

Federation of Motor and Credit Companies Association of Malaysia (FMCCAM) president Datuk Tony Khor said less than 400,000 used cars were sold in 2021.

“This year, they will be more than 400,000 units. We are projecting double-digit growth for 2022, 2023 and 2024,” he told StarBiz.

Khor emphasised that the used car market in Malaysia is expected to show considerable growth in the future, led by the popularity of online used car platforms that provide convenience to both buyers and sellers.

“We predict a compounded annual growth rate of 10% over the next three years.

“However, in order for used car sales to overtake new car sales, we need to instill confidence in buying a used vehicle.”

To do this, Khor said car buyers must feel safe and protected when purchasing a used car – a sentiment that is similar to buying a new car.

Khor said the FMCCAM has tied up with eAutoGen Capital to launch AutoGen Plus, an extended warranty programme.

He said the warranty would provide coverage for up to 10 years.

“For now, AutoGen Plus covers mainly the car engine and transmission. We are looking forward to eAutoGen providing a complete solution in the near future.

“With this extended warranty programme, used car dealers are protected from the risk associated with sourcing, such as trading cars with pre-existing issues, in-scope components condition, or reported beyond economical repair.”

Khor said having an extended warranty meant consumers would have more peace of mind and confidence when purchasing a used car.

“With an extended warranty programme now available for used cars, we believe that consumers will be more confident when purchasing older vehicles.

“Together with aggressive online campaigns by used car dealers, we are optimistic about the outlook of the Malaysian used car segment,” he said.

When considering the trend in developed countries, Khor said the ratio of used car sales versus new car sales is about two to one.

“This means that for every new car sold, two used cars are sold.

“In Malaysia, sales of used cars are at 400,000 units yearly, while for new vehicles it is around 600,000 units annually.”

Khor is optimistic that with time, the sales ratio of used cars versus new vehicles in Malaysia will be comparable to that of other countries.

Despite the discontinuation of the sales tax holiday, Khor is hopeful that sales of new cars will continue to remain steady for the remainder of 2022.

“As more people purchase new cars, the more they will need to trade in their old vehicles,” he said.

The vehicle sales tax exemption was announced in June 2020, under the short-term economic recovery plan or Penjana.

Under the exemption, locally-assembled cars are fully exempted from the sales tax while for imported cars, the sales tax was reduced from 10% to 5%.

The tax holiday was supposed to end in Dec 2020 but was however extended to June 30, 2021, and then again until the end of that year.

During the tabling of Budget 2022 in October last year, the government announced that the sales tax exemption would be extended one more time until June 30, 2022.

The multiple extensions were mainly due to the repeated lockdowns over the past two years, which disrupted business operations and prevented car buyers from being able to fully enjoy the benefits of the tax holiday.

However, buyers who had booked their vehicles during the tax holiday period have until March 31, 2023 to register their vehicles with the Road Transport Department.

Total vehicle sales surged more than 500% year-on-year to 48,922 units last month, mainly due to the low base during the same period last year as businesses were affected by the nationwide lockdown.

A total of 43,594 passenger vehicles were sold, while 5,328 units of commercial vehicles were registered, according to the Malaysian Automotive Association (MAA).

The association said the shortage of chips and components had continued to affect some vehicle marques in July.

It said sales for August would likely be maintained at last month’s level.

The MAA has forecast new vehicle sales to grow 5% to 630,000 units for 2022.


Mercedes-Benz takes over-the-air upgrade to the next level

                STUTTGART: Mercedes-Benz is expanding the possibility of upgrading vehicle programmes and systems over-the-air (OTA) instead of just updating them.

Mercedes-Benz's Digital Vehicle & Mobility head Georges Massing said with OTA, it is not just software updates that the company could deliver to vehicles already sold but also features which haven't even been invented yet.

"OTA enables the vehicle to become a more and more effective tool for the customer as time goes on," he said.

Massing said OTA updates were not new for Mercedes-Benz.

"Thanks to our many years of experience and many successfully run OTA campaigns over the years, our customers always have the latest software in the vehicle," he said.

What started with Mercedes-Benz vehicles in the US in 2013 has become standard for the Mercedes-Benz User eXperience (MBUX) infotainment system today.

Some twelve million over-the-air updates have now been performed with many MBUX customers around the world visiting the Mercedes me Store to book and add additional services and optional extras.

With over-the-air updates, completely new features enter the vehicle that is already with the customer.

As soon as a new update is available from Mercedes-Benz, a message is shown in the vehicle's central display; along with the download and installation of the update done in the background.

The user then has to agree again explicitly to the activation.

Mercedes-Benz relies on mobile radio technology and the communication module installed in the vehicle to transmit the data which is said to be the most secure way.

Updating the navigation maps stored in the vehicle began with the E-Class in 2016.

What previously required the insertion of a data medium such as a DVD, or a workshop visit, now takes place automatically over the air every three months, assuming the customer has activated this service in the Mercedes me Portal.

A further option for an updated and improved user experience is the additional booking of new functions in the Mercedes me Store such as Smartphone Integration like CarPlay or Android Auto, In-Car Office or the digital radio DAB+ for optimum radio reception.

And the best thing of all is that services whose subscription has expired can also be renewed quickly and easily online via the Mercedes me Store.

Currently, A-Class owners who have been using MBUX since 2018 are now receiving the additional streaming services TIDAL and Amazon Music, as well as access to the Mercedes me Store in MBUX.


Waze can now guide you to your destination in Cantonese

                KUALA LUMPUR: For Waze users more comfortable with the Cantonese dialect, here's good news.

Waze has taken the effort to offer Cantonese as a voice navigation option.

The option is being rolled out in stages starting from today.

The inclusion of Cantonese was made possible by Waze users from Malaysia, Hong Kong, China, Taiwan, Singapore, the United States, and Britain, who volunteered to help make the app more inclusive.

With support and recruitment efforts from the community, the team behind Waze put together the new language option in two months.

The quick turnaround was achieved by the Waze localisation team who adapted the dialect from the existing Chinese language, working together by adjusting Simplified Chinese and Traditional Chinese to Chinese HK. The team also selected a Hong Kong-approved Chinese language voice to ensure precise pronunciation and directions to give drivers a clear and secure driving experience.

At present, Waze has more than 50 languages available. The Waze app is available for the Android phone and iPhone.


Ford Mustang55 special edition revealed

                COLOGNE: Ford has announced the new Ford Mustang55 special edition model for customers in Europe, celebrating the 55th anniversary of the famous sports car.

Based on the 450PS Ford Mustang 5.0-litre V8, the new Mustang55 Edition features unique exterior styling including distinctive bonnet and side-stripes, badging, and optional rear spoiler, alongside a high-specification interior.

In addition, the Ford Mustang 2.3-litre EcoBoost now delivers styling upgrades inspired by Mustang Shelby models, and features as standard Ford’s Active Valve Performance Exhaust that enables drivers to adjust the intensity of the Mustang’s exhaust note to suit their mood and driving scenario.

Also FordPass Connect on-board modem technology turns Mustang into a mobile WiFi hotspot with connectivity for up to 10 devices.

Mustang earlier this year celebrated 55 years since its introduction on April 17, 1964, and in 2018 was the world’s best-selling sports coupe for the fourth consecutive year.

The new Ford Mustang55 5.0-litre V8 and Ford Mustang 2.3-litre EcoBoost are available to order from August.

The new Mustang55 special edition – available in fastback and convertible body styles – delivers a unique twist on the Ford Mustang’s sleek and athletic styling with black, dissolve-effect stripes for the low-profile bonnet and lower body sides, and a black painted roof for fastback models that complements the gloss-black 19-inch alloy wheels.

Shadow Black Mustang55 models feature silver stripes, and convertibles models feature a black cloth roof.

The upper and lower front grilles are finished in two-tone gloss black and Pillar Black with the upper grille incorporating a Pillar Black pony badge.

Pillar Black 5.0 front wing badges also feature an exclusive Colorado Red execution for the decimal point. An optional Pillar Black raised boot-lid spoiler completes the bespoke exterior look.

Mustang55 models equipped with Ford’s six-speed manual gearbox feature a unique moulded gear-shift knob, while 10-speed automatic models feature a unique alloy metal gear-shift knob.

Standard comfort and convenience technologies include heated and cooled front seats, Ford’s sophisticated SYNC 3 connectivity system now with DAB+ radio, a premium 12-speaker B&O Sound System, and FordPass Connect on-board modem for enhanced connectivity and functions including Remote Start* for automatic models, Remote Door Lock Unlock and Vehicle Locator.


China's Geely to add US$5bil battery plant in EV push

                BEIJING: Geely said it would build an electric vehicle battery factory with a planned annual manufacturing capacity of 42 gigawatt hours (GWh) in China’s eastern city of Ganzhou, as it expands its EV line-up in the world’s biggest car market.

The total investment in the project by Geely’s technology arm would be 30 billion yuan (RM19bil), according to a separate statement from the local government. Geely’s technology group has previously invested in Ganzhou-based EV battery maker Farasis.

The planned factory comes after Geely announced a flurry of tie-ups in January aimed at turning the automaker into a leading EV contract manufacturer and engineering service provider, as it fights the incursion of EV leader Tesla Inc.

Geely, which owns Volvo Cars and a 9.7% stake in Daimler AG, is competing with Great Wall and Nio Inc.

China’s government has heavily promoted new energy vehicles (NEVs) — such as battery-powered, plug-in petrol-electric hybrid and hydrogen fuel cell cars — in response to chronic air pollution, spurring interest from technology companies and investors alike.

China forecasts NEVs will make up 20% of its annual auto sales by 2025 from around 5% in 2020.

READ MORE:  VW to set up battery plants, expand charging points in e-car shift


Macron pledges electric-car leasing to wean drivers off gasoline

                PARIS: Electric-car makers could get a boost in France from a campaign promise by Emmanuel Macron to make driving EVs more affordable.

The French president pledged to develop a state-sponsored EV leasing program for low-income households if he wins re-election next month.

The proposal was part of a 4-hour-long pitch to voters unveiled at a press conference last Thursday outside the capital.

The measure stands to benefit European carmakers rolling out new EV models including Renault SA and Peugeot and Citroen-maker Stellantis NV. The war in Ukraine and the steep jump in oil prices have put energy costs high among voter concerns.

Macron didn’t offer details on the leasing plan, but it would play into automakers’ strategies to promote long-term car rentals and sharing as the future of mobility.

The government already offers subsidies to buy EVs.

All polls show Macron leading the first and second rounds of the election that starts on April 10, and he is expected to win.

Lowering fuel costs for drivers is an important political theme for France’s president after his mandate was marred early on by months of violent protests — the so-called Yellow Vest movement — that was sparked by a proposal to raise a fuel tax.

In the wake of the Ukraine war, the French government has announced a rebate of 15 euro cents (67 sen) per litre on gasoline and diesel for four months starting April 1 at a cost of about €2 billion (RM9.2bil).


Jeep venture takeover push kicks off Stellantis’s China reboot

                DETROIT: Stellantis NV is poised to roll out a new strategy for China, with the first major step being to take control of its struggling Jeep joint venture from a domestic partner, according to people familiar with the matter.

The automaker formed from the merger between Fiat Chrysler and PSA Group is in advanced discussions with state-owned partner Guangzhou automobile Group Co. on raising its stake in the 50-50 venture overseeing its Jeep operations in China, said the people, who asked not to be named because the discussions aren’t public.

The change could take effect as early as next year, when Chinese rules on JVs are set to be loosened, the people said.

In the coming years, Stellantis plans to promote brands including Jeep and DS in the world’s biggest car market, and also push an electric Opel model, one of the people said.

Stellantis is trying to align its production with disappointing levels of demand in China, outlining in a statement last week a plan to integrate Jeep import operations into the JV and centralise production in Changsha.

One of the people said the venture’s second plant in Guangdong would be closed.

Representatives for Stellantis and GAC declined to comment on plans for China beyond the statement.

Stellantis chief executive officer Carlos Tavares has for months been promising investors a plan to improve the carmaker’s dismal performance in China.

Out of the 3.6 million vehicles the company sold worldwide in the first half, roughly 50,000 were delivered in China. Its market share in the country slipped to 0.5% compared with double-digit share in all other regions outside Asia.

BMW deal

The venture with GAC produces the Jeep Cherokee, Renegade, Compass and Grand Commander primarily for the Chinese market. Deliveries of locally made models plunged 45% to 44,026 units in 2020, one of the people said.

Stellantis’s plan comes ahead of China lifting a cap on foreign ownership that has for decades limited global carmakers’ access to its market.

BMW reached an agreement with Brilliance China Automotive Holdings in 2018 to raise its equity in their joint venture to 75% from the current 50%, with the transaction to be completed next year.

As part of the Fiat Chrysler-PSA merger, Stellantis also inherited a venture in China with the Dongfeng Motor Group that makes Peugeot and Citroen models.

Dongfeng sold some of its stake in Stellantis last week as part of an agreement with PSA reached in December 2019.

Since Stellantis was formed at the start of the year, Tavares has unveiled plans for electrification and pledged more details with regard to the group’s software plans.

In the past few months, Tavares has also said the company was "moving forward very well” on China, and by year-end would have a full strategy including an "innovative” new business model.


Behave on the road, and be rewarded with cheaper insurance coverage

                PETALING JAYA: Something good is coming the way of responsible drivers. They will be rewarded with lower car insurance premiums under a proposal mooted by the Transport Ministry today.

Minister Anthony Loke said the discounts would apply to drivers who do not commit any traffic offence in a year.

The "carrot and stick" approach to shape good drivers is expected to be implemented next year, said Loke, adding that his ministry is now discussing with the Malaysian Automotive Insurance Association (PIAM) on how to make it work.

A driver will have his licence suspended if he commits too many offences under the demerit system.

Loke also said the reward idea came from PIAM which had told him that low accident risk drivers should benefit from their responsible driving habit.

On the Automated Enforcement System (AES) waiver, Loke said he was upset to learn that traffic offences shot up three times to 15,000 during the exemption period from Aug 17-31. He said the Road Transport Department would come down hard on traffic offenders from now on.

He said there would be no discount or exemption for compounds issued for offences under the Automated Enforcement System (AES) from now on.

He said those issued AES compounds have 60 days to settle the RM300 fine, adding offenders will also earn demerit points.

A traffic offender who reaches the first 20 demerit points will be issued a warning. For the next 20 points, his licence may be suspended or revoked.

Probationary drivers will have their licence cancelled once they accumulate 20 or more demerit points.

“Offenders who do not clear their compound payments will be charged in court. If they fail to show up, they will be blacklisted from engaging in any transaction involving the Road Transport Department (JPJ) until the case is cleared.

“These include getting a road tax, and obtaining or renewing driving licence.”

The minister’s statement follows the taking over of the Automated Awareness Safety System (AWAS) by JPJ from Sept 1.

The AES, combined with the demerit point system (Kejara), is known as AWAS.

In another development, Loke said drivers of foreign vehicles who have yet to settle traffic summonses will soon not be allowed to leave the country.

Such actions will be taken once the Vehicle Entry Permit (VEP) system kicks off at its borders in stages, starting later this year.

The first stage of VEP will start at the border with Singapore this year followed by the border shared with Thailand.

The Road Transport Department said in July it had been testing the VEP system at the two Singapore entry points border via the Causeway and the Second Link was to wrap up in August.

At present, Malaysia imposes a road charge (RC) of RM20 (S$6.61) per vehicle on foreign vehicles entering the country via Johor from Singapore.

It was implemented at the Johor Causeway here and the Second Link Crossing in Tanjung Kupang, Gelang Patah, on Nov 1 2016.


More power with Caltex Euro 5 diesel

                KUALA LUMPUR: Caltex has launched its Euro 5 compliant diesel fuel, namely Caltex Power Diesel with Techron D.

Developed with near-zero sulphur content, Caltex Power Diesel (Euro 5) with Techron D contains less than 10 parts per million (ppm) of sulfur, compared with Euro 2M diesel which contains 500ppm.

Caltex Power Diesel (Euro 5) with Techron D is also an improved ultra-premium diesel containing Chevron's exclusive Techron D additive to control deposits, help maintain fuel injector cleanliness and enable optimum engine performance.

Caltex is a retail brand of Chevron Malaysia Ltd.

"The introduction of Caltex Power Diesel (Euro 5) with Techron D is our commitment to provide customers with clean, reliable and quality products which not only increase vehicle performance but prevent engine corrosion for both old and new diesel engines," said Chevron Malaysia country chairman Shahid Ahmed.

In a diesel engine, keeping the fuel injectors clean is critical as diesel fuel injectors are prone to deposit formation.

Deposits can upset the injector spray pattern and hinder the fuel-air mixing process and this can result in higher fuel consumption, reduced engine performance and increased emissions.

The new Caltex Power Diesel (Euro 5) with Techron D can keep clean fuel injectors and optimise power.

In engine and laboratory tests, it delivered excellent results including:

- 100 per cent clean fuel injector that translates to optimal fuel economy, lesser emissions and restoration of lost power
- Zero Power Loss
- Metal surface protection against corrosion
- Foamless, resulting in a faster and cleaner fill


Coupon parking system back again in Subang Jaya

                PETALING JAYA: It seems like deja vu for Subang Jaya residents who will now be using the scratch-and-display parking coupons once again.

In a reversal move, Subang Jaya Municipal Council (MPSJ) is re-introducing the prepaid scratch cards for parking, a method in use nearly two decades ago before it was replaced by the pay-and-display machines in 2001.

The scratch card system has been implemented since Monday but was only officially launched yesterday at the SS15 wet market on a six-month trial basis. The system is in place side by side with the existing parking system in commercial areas.

Council president Datuk Nor Hisham Ahmad Dahlan said MPSJ would allow a temporary dual-system and the public now had the option to either continue using the current pay-and-display system or use the new scratch cards.

During the launch, Nor Hisham and his deputy, Abdullah Marjunid, handed out 100 scratch-and-display coupons to residents as a gesture of goodwill. They also distributed leaflets informing the public about the scratch cards.

 Nor Hisham handing out the new parking coupons to residents at the launch in SS15, Subang Jaya.

Nor Hisham said MPSJ would evaluate the efficacy of the different parking payment methods by taking into account residents’ feedback and examining the coupon purchase trend.

“We want to look at the options, that is why by Aug 1 we will discuss the matter at the fullboard meeting to decide on the best method whether it is the machine, the scratch cards or carry on with the dual system.

“This trial will also help us to decide on the most suitable system for new areas where currently there is no parking fee imposed,” he added.

Some of the motorists interviewed in the affected areas were unaware that there was a new parking system over the past three days.

Generally, confusion abound.

SS18 resident Kathleen Francesca See said she was not aware there would be a new system until she saw the banners.

 According to PMSJ; there are 334 parking coupon agents in the municipality.

Other motorists who realised the scratch coupons had been introduced, were not sure if they should use them or continue with the parking coupons dispensed by the machines. Many people also wondered where to buy the scratch-and-display cards.

The reception to the scratch cards system is mixed.

Those who see its benefit, like SS15 Hexagon RT chairman Rita Bhardwaj, welcomed the fact that the public was being given an alternative way to pay for parking.

Parking is still limited to per hour basis at the Taipan USJ commercial area. (New scratch card system implemented in MPSJ areas alonside current pay and display system)
Be gone in 60 minutes: Parking is still limited to one hour at the USJ Taipam commercial area.

“It is convenient for us because if we cannot find a parking machine, we can use the scratch cards,” she said, but lamented that council enforcement was very much lacking and indiscriminate parking was still a big problem in the SS15 commercial area.

USJ 4 resident Jade Yap said, “It will be great if they can have both systems simultaneously as it will cater to two different types of users (frequent long hours and occasional short periods).

“If it is entirely the prepaid scratch coupon system, it will be a waste for users who mostly park for short periods of time.”

See said the scratch-and-display method was convenient as it eliminated the hassle of looking for coins to pay for the machine-dispensed coupons, but it would mean a loss for the motorist who use the hourly scratch coupon if they only parked for 30 minutes.

Each scratch card is valued at 50sen, which allows users to park for an hour.

If one were to park for eight hours, there would be eight cards. Under the current pay-and-display system, one can pay for the amount of hours needed in one ticket.

This does not apply to the USJ Taipan commercial area where parking is still limited to one hour, regardless if one uses the pay-and-display system or scratch card.

During the launch, SS17 Residents Association secretary A.B. Naicker asked about places selling the coupons.

RT SS15/2E secretary Michael Sundram said, “From our experience in areas where they use these scratch-and-display coupons, the problem is that sometimes we cannot find the shops selling the booklet. Then it becomes an inconvenience and we risk getting summoned for not paying parking fee.

“The signage for the coupon agents in Subang Jaya are not prominent.”

According to MPSJ, there are 334 parking coupon agents in the municipality.

StarMetro drove around the Subang Jaya SS15 commercial area and only noticed one signboard indicating the shop selling the coupons.

 Be gone in 60 minutes. Parking is still limited to one hour at the USJ Taipan commercial area.

The scratch-card parking system will be managed by Godell Parking Sdn Bhd, which is also the company running the current pay-and-display machine system.

MPSJ initially proposed for scratch cards to be introduced only in new commercial and industrial areas that did not have parking machines (“MPSJ starts new parking system” in StarMetro on Jan 31). The proposal also stated that coupons in the new areas cannot be used in the existing commercial and industrial areas and vice-versa.

However, the council later held a special closed-door meeting and came up with a totally different scheme.

Nor Hisham said MPSJ would postpone and study the implementation of the new parking system for new commercial and industrial areas during these six months.

When asked about the sudden change, he said it came about because of feedback from the public.

“We will study the scratch card system and the feasibility of introducing it to new areas.”


Hennessey planning four-door Cadillac supercar

                HOUSTON: The Texan tuning, customisation, racing and supercar company has announced its intention to take the new Cadillac CTS-V and turn it into the world's fastest production family sedan.

The standard CTS-V will come with a 640hp 6.2-litre V8 engine when it goes on sale later this year and, according to Cadillac, the result is a 0-100kph time of less than 4 seconds and a top speed of 322kph.

For most people that would be more than enough, but for John Hennessey and his Hennessey Performance Engineering team, those figures are simply "a good starting point," and he plans to pick up where Cadillac left off.

The Hennessey HPE1000 Twin Turbo CTS-V will be limited to just 24 examples a year but will up the power to 1000hp and in doing so seriously recalibrate its top speed. "I believe that our 2016 Twin Turbo CTS-V will have a top speed approaching 386kph," says Hennessey.

"I've owned and driven several Cadillac CTS-Vs over the past 5 years. I love the practicality and the ease of driving these cars every day. They are also a great platform from which we can create our own special 4-door supercar."

Bolting two turbos on to an engine will increase the power, and any tuning shop could do that, but Hennessey will be rebuilding the engine to take the extra strain - so new pistons, cylinder heads and crank shaft - so that it will continue to work as a daily driver.

The special model will also get some aerodynamic upgrades and some much larger carbon ceramic brakes and, like other special Hennessey editions, some interior customizations, too.

At the moment, another equally American car, the Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat is officially the world's fastest, most powerful production sedan.

Thanks to a supercharged, 6.2-litre Hemi V8 engine under its air-scooped hood, it comes with 707hp on tap and a top speed of 328kph. However, since its launch late last year it seems to have really stirred up the competition, which isn't surprising considering that it has more horsepower on tap than a Ferrari 458 Italia and a higher top speed than any four-door Bentley, Mercedes or Maserati.

And as well as taking the title off the Hellcat Dodge, Hennessey is also planning to offer step-by-step upgrade packages to Cadillac CTS-V owners that will offer more #34;modest' 100-150hp power increases over the standard 640hp engine.


The red pill for the G-Class: Mercedes shows up at premiere of 'The Matrix Resurrections'

                STUTTGART/SAN FRANCISCO: The new film The Matrix Resurrections celebrated its US premiere at the Castro Theatre in San Francisco on Dec 18.

In the film, audiences will return to a world of two realities: one, everyday life; the other, what lies behind it.

Neo, the main character in the film, is again faced with the crucial question: the blue or the red pill? If he takes the blue pill, he remains in the everyday life of the simulated world of the Matrix.

If he chooses the red one, he escapes from the alien-determined life into the unknown real world and once again fights against the rule of the machines.

Mercedes-Benz appeared at the premiere via the installation of an imposing red pill next to the historic film palace.

It was around 12 metres long, four metres wide and 3.5 metres high. In it, a powerful Mercedes-AMG G 63 in selenite grey was presented.

In the film, the off-road icon G-Class also takes part in a fast-paced chase. In a G 550 (US model), more rebels pave the way for Neo and Trinity, the two main movie characters, to escape from the Matrix.

“The G-Class and the red pill go very well together. Both stand for freedom, individuality, and self-determination. That's why we are delighted to support Warner Bros. Pictures with the worldwide cinema release of The Matrix Resurrections with an extraordinary and attention-grabbing installation,” said Mercedes-Benz G CEO and managing director Dr Emmerich Schiller.

“Sponsorship is a central component of our branded entertainment activities. Mercedes-Benz has a long tradition as a sought-after partner of the film industry, both nationally and internationally.

"We have had a close partnership with Warner Bros. for around 20 years, because the medium of film allows brand and product communication to be implemented in a highly emotional way and also immortalised to a certain extent.”

The Matrix: Resurrections arrives in theatres and HBO Max on Dec 22.


Volvo Trucks celebrates 50th anniversary with record truck delivery

Volvo FH16

SHAH ALAM: Volvo Trucks today announced a stellar financial year 2018, having recorded a total sale of 450 units of premium heavy-duty trucks to customers in Malaysia.

In Malaysia, Volvo currently offers three truck models - the FM, FMX and flagship FH.

Out of the total, the company sold 266 units of the FM model, 138 units of the FMX model, and 46 units of the flagship FH model that comprised of two variants - the FH13 and FH16.

Each of the three models can be customised accordingly for industry-specific applications.

“Overall, we logged in an 18% sales growth from what we had attained in 2017. This strong performance has been a very pleasing addition to the brand’s continuous market-leading position in the European heavy-duty commercial vehicle segment in Malaysia for seven years in a row,” said Volvo Trucks Malaysia managing director Mitch Peden.

The FM model is seen as the ideal all-round player for multiple industries, while the FMX model is touted to offer ground-breaking innovations for more efficient mining and construction work.

The company's flagship which was launched two years ago in the country is seen to be gaining in popularity within the heavy haulage sector thanks to its torque, power and innovative features for handling deliveries of over-sized loads for both short and long-haul distribution.

The technology in the FH not only provides high onboard safety but also for a more economical driveline and high uptime while being well-known to push the limits of what a premium truck can offer.

 Volvo FH13

According to the company, several aftermarket services introduced last year to further boost customer satisfaction and long-lasting truck ownership experience includes the Volvo Service Planning, 24-months Fitted Parts Warranty and Extended Workshop Hours programmes.

The Volvo Service Planning is a tailored plan of pre-scheduled service sessions ascertained based on truck usage information such as payload, road condition and vehicle mileage.

This programme seeks to prevent unplanned stops which could cause business delays for customers.

Mechanics, service bays and parts are pre-booked to ensure vehicles are completed within the estimated service duration.

Under the 24-months Fitted Parts Warranty, the company will repair or replace for free any faulty genuine parts that were fitted by a qualified technician at any of its authorised dealerships.

The Extended Workshop Hours, currently available in Volvo’s flagship Port Klang dealership allows customers to bring in their Volvo trucks for service and maintenance beyond the standard workshop hours and on Saturdays.

“With these enhanced aftermarket support, our customers are able to receive the best care benchmarked against the highest global standards which Volvo has always adhered to.

"Our objective is to ensure that our customers’ trucks spend as little time as possible in the workshop and more uninterrupted time on the road,” said and we’re very satisfied with the sale performance of this truck so far,” added Peden.


Lexus NX gets 'iced up' for spectacular debut

BRUSSELS: The concept of driving on ice has taken on a whole new meaning for Lexus, which has crafted the world’s first set of working wheels and tyres made from frozen water.

Lexus recently commissioned a team of ice sculpture specialists to explore how ice could be used in place of conventional alloy metal and rubber.

After three months’ research, design and testing, the finished wheels were fitted to a Lexus NX for the ultimate ice drive. The car itself was deep-frozen, stored for five days at -30°C (it started first time) before being driven off down a London road.

The addition of in-wheel LED lighting added an extra dramatic dimension to the cutting-edge contemporary styling of the NX.

The project was undertaken by Hamilton Ice Sculptors, a London-based business established for more than 35 years with experience in producing innovative and large-scale works. For the Lexus commission – the first of its kind – genuine NX wheels and tyres were laser scanned and replicated using computer design and numerical control techniques. The result was a fusing of art and engineering.

Four sculptors worked for 36 hours to produce each wheel. The finish was achieved with hand-crafting, using Japanese steel chisels and shaping tools. Even the tread patterns on the tyres were faithfully reproduced.

The ice was made from softened water taken from a moving flow to ensure it was perfectly clear when taken from the freezer. Acrylic inserts were added to ensure the wheels could take the load of the NX.

Richard Balshaw, Lexus Director, said: “Creating Amazing is what Lexus is about. Projects such as our hoverboard, the origami-inspired cardboard car and now a dazzling set of fully functioning ice wheels, demonstrate how we use advanced technologies and the best craftsmanship traditions to achieve outstanding results. That’s not just for eye-catching one-off projects, but for the cars we deliver to our customers, too.”