Look out for the most powerful (and mouthful) Range Rover SVAutobiography Dynamic

                WHITLEY: For 2017, Range Rover, the world’s most successful luxury SUV with over a million sales worldwide receives a suite of advanced semi-autonomous driving technologies and the introduction of the new Range Rover SVAutobiography Dynamic.

Epitomising Range Rover luxury and performance, the new SVAutobiography Dynamic model is the most powerful, most dynamic production Range Rover to date.

The SVAutobiography Dynamic marries the finest attention to detail with elegant and luxurious materials including diamond quilted leather seats, contrast stitching and a knurled finish rotary shift controller and pedals.

Powered by a 550hp V8 supercharged engine, the SVAutobiography Dynamic, through specially configured suspension, delivers the ultimate combination of performance and handling without compromising Range Rover’s peerless comfort and refinement delivering a 0-60 time of 5.1 seconds.

Range Rover continues to cement its peerless all-terrain capability through a host of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS).

Standard driver assistance technologies include Rear Park Distance Control, Cruise Control and Speed Limiter, Lane Departure Warning and Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB).

This intelligent technology uses a forward facing camera to detect a risk of collision and warn the driver initiating full emergency braking if the driver fails to respond.

The additional ‘Drive Pack’ includes existing features such as Blind Spot Monitor, Traffic Sign Recognition and Reverse Traffic Detection, and new technology including Intelligent Speed Limiter, which uses the Traffic Sign Recognition hardware to automatically adjust the vehicle speed to meet the prevailing speed limit.

Also included in the Drive Pack is Driver Condition Monitor which analyses data such as steering inputs and road speed, as well as taking account of the time of day, to warn against driver fatigue.

Advanced Tow Assist takes any anxiety out of the difficult task of reversing while towing a trailer. Using the vehicle’s existing Surround Camera System, this technology enables drivers to guide a trailer into position with minimal effort.

By following the trajectory lines overlaid on an image from the rear-facing camera displayed on the central touchscreen, Advanced Tow Assist is able to automatically steer the vehicle to follow the path selected by the driver using the dash-mounted rotary Terrain Response selector.

Low Traction Launch is a manually selectable driving mode designed to assist drivers when pulling away from a standstill on slippery surfaces such as wet grass, snow or ice. By controlling the amount of torque that can be applied by the driver, the system reduces the likelihood of wheelspin to maintain traction and ensure smooth acceleration.

The feature can be accessed independently through the central touchscreen and the driver is prompted to engage Low Traction Launch whenever Grass/Gravel/Snow mode is selected using Terrain Response 2. The system remains active until the vehicle reaches 30km/h.

The introduction of Jaguar Land Rover’s ‘InControl Touch Pro’ infotainment system delivers improved satellite navigation functionality and connectivity.

The fast, intuitive operation is augmented by the new larger 10-inch dual-view touchscreen display, alternatively users can choose to enhance their view of the navigation system by selecting to convert the digital display behind the steering wheel to a full-screen view of their route and map, increasing visibility and minimising distraction from the road ahead.

As part of an ‘InControl Connect Pro’ pack, InControl Touch Pro incorporates a series of new app services to Range Rover. InControl Remote Premium allows customers to remotely control vehicle functions such as activating the climate control to cool or heat the car ready for departure, set and deactivate the alarm, and even start the engine.

The app will alert owners if their vehicle alarm has been triggered.

Additional InControl Touch Pro Services include live apps that can be downloaded to provide information such as headline news, weather reporting and flight tracking.

InControl Touch Pro also features ‘door-to-door routing’, an intelligent, multi-device system that navigates users to their destination whether they be on foot or behind the wheel, thanks to a Land Rover-dedicated smartphone Route Planner app.

‘Commute mode’ automatically learns frequently-used routes and recommends the most efficient route dependent on live traffic data, then shares the driver’s destination, arrival time and current location with friends, family and colleagues via a live messaging system through the driver’s smartphone.

In addition to the existing engine line-up, UK customers will have the option of specifying Jaguar Land Rover's 3.0 litre V6 supercharged petrol engine. The V6 achieves 340 PS and 450 Nm of torque combined with CO2emissions of 248g/km. Effortless acceleration and power delivery produces a 0-60 time of 7.1s.

The 3.0 litre V6 engine features lightweight all-aluminium construction and combines supercharging with direct-injection and variable intake, and exhaust valve timing to deliver exceptional throttle response, linear power delivery and a unique soundtrack.

The level of personalisation available for 2017 Model Year Range Rover is taken to new heights with the introduction of new exterior finishes available through Jaguar Land Rover’s Special Vehicle Operations division.

19 new colours give customers more choice of metallic and pearlescent colours, widely available in either gloss or satin matte finishes. The additional palette ranges from traditional shades to bolder, more contemporary choices.


BMW's new M5 Competition delivers 625hp

                MUNICH: The highly anticipated sportier version of the new BMW M5 has been officially unveiled and the first shipments are expected this summer. This new model has added power, but that's not the only difference.

The Competition's twin-turbo V8 engine bumps the power up to 625hp. This, combined with a Steptronic eight-speed automatic gearbox results in high-performance acceleration of 0-100kph in 3.3s and 0-200kph in 10.8s, plus a top speed of 250kph.

With the optional M Driver's package, top speeds can even get up to 305kph. What's more, to give a better grip on the road and more of a sporty look, the chassis has been lowered by 7mm, the suspension has been revamped and the tailpipe offers a new sportier design.

Following on from the M2 Competition, this latest M5 model is the second in the new separate range. Its price has not yet been disclosed, but is likely to top 130,000 euros (RM615,000), bearing in mind that prices for the standard M5 start at 127,550 euros (RM603,000).


Nissan and Mitsubishi unveil light EVs for Japan

TOKYO: Mitsubishi Motors Corp and Nissan Motor Co unveiled their first jointly developed light electric vehicles (EVs), aiming to draw more Japanese drivers to battery-powered cars by offering low-priced micro models.

The two Japanese automakers, part of an alliance with French carmaker Renault SA, were once considered trailblazers in Japan's EV market but have struggled to attract customers and face challenges from fast-growing newcomers such as Tesla.

"I'm confident that (the new vehicles) representing the alliance will be a game changer for electric vehicles in Japan," Nissan chief executive officer Makoto Uchida said at an unveiling of the new models in the western Japan city of Kurashiki.

The automakers are hoping to leverage their presence in Japan's unique market for micro "kei" cars, which account for nearly 40% of cars on the road in Japan.

The three companies' alliance early this year detailed a five-year plan to invest US$26 billion on EV development, including kei cars.

Nissan, which produces the LEAF and the Ariya electric vehicles, will offer its first light EV, the Sakura, starting at about 1.78 million yen (RM62,000) after factoring in a government subsidy, and with a range of 180km.

Mitsubishi Motors, maker of i-MiEV electric cars, will release the "eK cross EV" starting from about 1.85 million yen (RM64,000) including the subsidy, also with a range of 180km.

Both automakers said they would start selling their new line-up of electric "kei" cars this summer.

"People who used to think that EVs are too expensive will become a little more interested in EVs and will be willing to give them a try," said Riho Suzuki, Nissan regional product manager.


How convenient! Jaguar and Shell launch world’s first in-car payment system

                NEW YORK: Jaguar drivers can now use their car’s touchscreen to pay for fuel through a new cashless payment app developed with Shell.

The Shell app is one of several new enhancements to the 2018 Jaguar F-PACE, XE and XF models. Other updates include the introduction of a new 247HP 4-cylinder Ingenium petrol engine as the entry powertrain for each of the three models and the addition of several convenience features such as available gesture technology where the sweep of a foot can open the trunk.

Rather than using a card at the pump, or waiting in the service station, owners who install the Shell app can simply drive up to any pump at a Shell service station (initially in Britain and then globally) and use the vehicle’s touchscreen to select how much fuel they require and securely pay using PayPal or Apple Pay. Android Pay will be added later in 2017.

An electronic receipt will be displayed on the touchscreen, so customers can leave the gas station confident of having paid. An electronic version of the receipt will also be sent directly from the pump to the driver’s email address so it can be added seamlessly to accounting or expense software.

“In a world where cash is no longer king, customers are increasingly using electronic payments and contactless cards,” said Jaguar Land Rover's director of connected car and future technology Peter Virk. “Making a payment directly from a car’s touchscreen will make refuelling quicker and easier. With this new system, you can choose any pump at the gas station and pay for the fuel even if you’ve forgotten your wallet or can’t find your credit or debit card.”

Unlike current phone-based payment methods, Shell and Jaguar Land Rover have created a simple but secure customer experience that uses geolocation technology and a cloud based pre-payment check with the PayPal or Apple Pay wallet.

Shell introduced mobile payments at the pump in Britain in 2015, and serves around 30 million customers daily. "Today, we are proud to offer the next step in cashless motoring, with Jaguar and Land Rover customers in the UK paying for their fuel using the car’s touchscreen," said Shell Brands International global vice president shell retail marketing and chairman David Bunch, adding that his company plans to deploy the service to its 43,000 service stations globally.

The Shell app with in-car cashless payments will be available to download by users in Britain now and will be rolled out to additional markets, including the United States, throughout 2017.


INSIGHT: Japan Inc's safety failures point to deeper malaise

                TOKYO: A series of safety scandals at Japanese companies have put the country’s lionised factory floor under scrutiny as manufacturers struggle with increased pressure on costs, stricter enforcement of standards and growing competition.

With margins squeezed by a stagnant domestic market and rivalry from China and South Korea, many factories have cut costs, reducing their reliance on workers in lifetime employment in favour of labourers on temporary contracts.

As they have done so, safety scandals have erupted across the country’s much-vaunted manufacturing sector, with Subaru Corp on Friday joining Nissan Motor Co Ltd in admitting it failed to follow proper vehicle inspection procedures.

Earlier this month, Japan’s third-largest steelmaker, Kobe Steel Ltd, said its workers had tampered with product specifications for years, leaving companies around the world scrambling to verify the safety of cars, planes, trains and electrical goods.

 The Japanese car industry as represented at the ongoing Tokyo Motor Show.Penny-wise, pound foolish?
Unable to easily lay off “regular” employees, full-time employees with permanent contracts and pay scales based on seniority that formed the heart of Japan’s post-war workforce, companies have increasingly come to rely on “non-regular” workers - temps, part-timers and short-term contract workers.

These non-regular workers allow companies to cut costs and adjust their workforce, said Koji Morioka, emeritus professor at Kansai University and an expert on workplace issues. But it has led to a de-skilling of the factory floor, lowering standards and increasing the likelihood of wrongdoing and accidents, he said.

“The use of these ‘disposable’ workers is greatly increasing,” Morioka said. “The loss of experienced, skilled workers on the factory floor is becoming more and more risky.”

The share of non-regular workers in the labour force has risen from 20 percent in the early 1990s to a record 37.5 percent last year - with the proportion in some companies higher still.

The pay gap is stark, with regular workers last year on average paid 321,700 yen (RM12,000) monthly compared with 211,800 yen (RM7,900) for contract workers.

Companies are failing to produce the skilled workers needed to ensure standards are met in areas like safety at a time when scrutiny is intensifying around the world and lapses are met with greater criticism, said Parissa Haghirian, professor of Japanese management at Sophia University in Tokyo.

“There is a real human resource problem,” she said, with the traditional model of hiring workers straight out of school or university, teaching them on the job and rotating them between departments no longer functioning well.

Afterthought
With the ratio of companies complaining of labour shortages at a 25-year high and with firms needing specialists but failing to produce them internally, competition for skilled workers is likely to become more fierce, Haghirian said.

“I predict high performers will leave more quickly... leaving companies in trouble because these people traditionally would stay and drag everyone else along,” she said.

Japanese companies are not alone in being caught up in scandals, with European and US companies caught cutting corners and manipulating results in areas like vehicle emissions tests to the sale of meat. But the Japanese firms face questions over whether they can adapt quickly enough.

Some Japanese makers have taken the attitude that “because the factory floor is well run, quality control and inspection can be applied as an afterthought,” said Tadashi Kunihiro, a lawyer who is a director and auditor on company boards.

Companies, he said, were not placing their most skilled workers in quality control roles.

While safety lapses have been going on at some companies for years or even decades, the decline of the lifetime employment system has likely sapped the loyalty of workers who are more likely to raise concerns themselves, Kunihiro added.

Improving transparency at companies has been a key plank of Prime Minister Shinzo Abe’s corporate governance reforms through measures such as boosting the number of outside directors.

Need for execs to spend time at shopfloor
But experts question whether such reforms can do much to prevent safety scandals occurring in the first place.

“Even if there are more outside directors, if there is cheating on the factory floor there is no way they will be able find out,” a senior executive in the aluminum industry said, speaking on the condition of anonymity.

“Even executives don’t know what’s happening on the factory floor,” he said.

Executives are guilty of becoming too detached from the operational side of the business, said Toshiyuki Shimegi, president of Porsche Japan.

“There is a need for more micromanagement,” he said on the sidelines of the Tokyo Motor Show. “They are missing the hands-on approach.”


One-off widebody Hellcat looks to Pike's Peak

                LANSING (Michigan): Dodge is looking to send its venerable Charger SRT Hellcat up into the clouds of Pike's Peak and it'll be dressed up in a custom widebody kit and plenty of performance modifications to boot.

The now American four-door muscle car is a race-prepared concept that's based on the new road-going Charger Sport and Racing Technology (SRT) Hellcat Widebody.

The concept, which will compete in the Exhibition Class on June 30, wears a distinctive red/black/gray/white SRT livery created by the FCA US Product Design Office that was first previewed at SpringFest on April 14.

Engineers at Dodge SRT have teamed up with Wesley Motorsports to bring about a specially tuned supercharged 6.2-litre HEMI V8 engine.

The custom tune and a race exhaust system will help the car maintain its power output at the upper altitudes during the "run up into the clouds".

For handling purposes, this Hellcat will be fitted with Bilstein shock absorbers with what seems to be standard production SRT springs.

To keep it from slipping will be a set of standard 20x11-inch Carbon Black forged wheels wrapped by Toyo Proxes RR DOT Competition tyres.

Stopping power will come from the high-temperature brake fluid that will help the Pagid RST 1 racing brake pads bite hard to bleed speed and if the worst should happen, an FIA-spec roll cage, racing seat and racing fuel cell help to up safety levels.

While the Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat Widebody for Pikes Peak is a one-off concept, it carries much of the stock equipment used for the production version of the 2020 Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat Widebody.

Such equipment includes the front six-piston and rear four-piston Brembo brake callipers, SRT developed and tuned TorqueFlite eight-speed automatic transmission.

Not to mention, this Hellcat hasn't been entirely stripped out and still even carries an air conditioning compressor as well as other standard equipment to maintain its production-car credibility.

Helming the widebody Hellcat will be award-winning driver Randy Pobst, a three-time “Race to the Clouds” veteran for the 97th running of the climb up Pike's Peak.

As standard, the Hellcat Widebody is 3.5-inches (89mm) wider with its supercharged 6.2-litre V8 engine producing 707hp and 880Nm of torque - allowing it to sprint from 0-100kph in 3.9 seconds before reaching a top speed of 318kph.

With stickier Pirelli 305/35ZR20 tyres on its 20-inch wheels, the 3.5-inch (89mm) wider hellcat is able to pull 0.96g on the skid pad.

Such improvements allow this new Hellcat Widebody to lap a 3.4km track some 2.1 seconds faster (about 13 car lengths per lap) than before.

The hill climb is a world-renowned up-hill climb that forces drivers to negotiate 156 turns over a 20km route.

The climb starts at an altitude of 9,390-feet where the air is thin before finishing at 14,115-feet which robs the engine of performance and the driver of stamina.


Licenceless traffic offenders may pay hefty price

                KUALA LUMPUR: Police want traffic offenders caught without licences to be prosecuted in court.

“We do not want to issue compounds to offenders who do not have proper licences anymore. We are proposing that we charge them in court,” said Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Khalid Abu Bakar.

Khalid said this was to ensure that road users did not take the matter lightly and were responsible on the road.

“There are many accidents and fatalities caused by those without licences,” he said, adding that action would also be taken against owners who allow others without licences to use their vehicles.

This would include parents who let their children use their vehicles despite not having the licence to drive or ride a motorcycle.

“They need not be arrested on the spot but when we get the directive to charge from the Attorney-General, we will charge them in court,” he said when asked whether offenders caught without licences would be arrested on the spot.


Big bonus offers for Kia cars

                KUALA LUMPUR: Naza Kia Malaysia has a "K Surprise Series" campaign where for a limited time, Kia car buyers can enjoy bonuses up to RM15,888 and three-years free maintenance service on selected models.

The campaign covers the Kia Rio sedan K2, Cerato K3 and Optima K5.

The three-years or 60,000km free maintenance service covers parts and labour.

Customers must follow the service interval recommended by Kia.

Also, those who test drive a Kia will stand a chance to win tickets to Euro 2016 in the ‘Kia Lucky Drive to France’ contest.

Winners will be announced in May.


New Kia Global Ambassador announced

                KUALA LUMPUR: A new Kia Global Ambassador for Malaysia has been announced.

The new ambassador is Lim Chee Kin from Shah Alam, who was selected by Kia Motors Corporation for showing his love for the brand on all social media platforms - garnering over 2,600 followers.

Owner of a Kia Rio SX, Lim received an ambassador sticker, plaque, Kia exclusive merchandise and RM1,000 service voucher.

Other benefits include awards eligibility, early updates on new car launches and special event invitations.

A Kia Global Ambassador is a customer who shares their positive experiences with the brand via its social media platforms and channels as well as on their own personal social media channels with friends and families.

Conceived by Kia Motors Corporation, other countries taking part in the Kia Global Ambassador program include Germany, Italy, the United Kingdom, Iraq, Palestine, Brazil, Paraguay, Russia and South Africa.

“Kia fans are encouraged to declare their excitement for the brand. We look forward to having more Kia Global Ambassadors from Malaysia in the years to come,” said Naza Kia Malaysia head of service operations Asrul Affendi.


BMW HQ puts on a spectacular light show ahead of IAA Munich

                MUNICH: With IAA Munich set to open in the coming days on its home turf, BMW is putting its best foot forward.

It held a spectacular light show last night that lit up the façade of the BMW Group headquarters

Four different animations addressing the transition to future mobility were projected on the world-famous architectural icon that is shaped like a four-cylinder engine.

The BMW Group’s current messages were conveyed by the 99-metre-high building in the form of powerfully expressive, brightly coloured animated sequences.

Head of BMW Brand Communication and Experience, Stefan Ponikva, emphasises the particular significance of the BMW Tower and the importance of this campaign: “The Four-Cylinder is the architectural icon of the BMW Group and a distinctive landmark in the city of Munich. We’re keen to send out a powerful signal to the world in support of a sustainable vision for a circular economy.”

The various sequences on the cylinder-shaped façade visualise the BMW Group’s approaches to CO2 reduction, climate neutrality and the circular economy over the entire lifecycle of an automobile. From low-impact extraction of raw materials and energy-efficient production through to maximum efficiency during the customer use phase and recycling at the end of the product’s lifetime.

A sequence of different projections illustrates this cycle, showcasing the circular economy – the BMW Group’s guiding theme at the IAA 2021 – as well as the company’s accomplishments to date in the electrification of its vehicles and the use of innovations such as those in the area of digitalisation.

One of the animations visualises the transition from the combustion engine to electric mobility: starting with the virtual up-and-down movement of pistons to portray the combustion process in the cylinders, this then transforms into colourful pulsating battery cells, finally announcing the status “Fully Charged”.

Another sequence is dedicated to the circular economy. At the beginning of this animation, the building shell of the Four-Cylinder Tower appears to melt, after which the inside of the cylinders fills with liquid metal.

From a vortex, the silhouette gradually emerges of the “BMW i Vision Circular” – the study vehicle being premiered at the IAA that symbolises the BMW Group’s extensive expertise in the circular economy. The following words appear at the end of this sequence: “WELCOME TO IAA. LET'S RE:IMAGINE TODAY.”

Film music creator and Academy Award winner Hans Zimmer provided the musical background for the light show; the sound collaboration was realised by Remote Control Productions, one of Zimmer's companies.

Over 16 million pixels from 36 projectors made the tower light up

Further light projections are planned for the days to come.


Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series previewed from RM3mil

                SEPANG: Mercedes-Benz Malaysia today previewed the two-seater Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series, the pinnacle of its GT family.

Although the ultimate performance machine comes with a staggering price from RM3mil, the company said all 13 units destined for well-heeled local sports car connoisseurs have been allocated.

The Black Series has been synonymous with a very special type of car since 2006: uncompromisingly sporty, with an expressive design and the most consistent technology transfer from motorsport to series production.

Although based on the AMG 4.0-litre V8 biturbo engine with dry sump lubrication, the new GT Black Series' engine has been given an internal code of M178 LS2 as it had been extensively modified to deliver 730hp and 800Nm of torque.

Coupled to a modified seven-speed AMG Speedshift DCT 7G transmission, the supercar can rocket from 0-100kph in 3.2 seconds, to 200kph under nine seconds and a top speed 325kph.

The 'torque tube' that transfers power from the engine at the front to the rear-mounted transmission is made from carbon fibre, and at just 13.9kg is around 40% lighter than its already weight-optimised aluminium counterpart in the AMG GT variant.

Taking cues from motorsports, the GT Black Series' new carbon-fibre bonnet has two large exhaust air outlets made from black-finished carbon surfaces to guide the warm air out of the engine compartment and also increases the overall downforce.

The lightweight carbon-fibre roof, carbon-fibre tailgate with small spoiler lip and larger rear windscreen made from lightweight thin glass are part of its intelligent weight reduction regime.

Its underbody is almost fully panelled not only to meet aerodynamic requirements but also to dissipate engine heat.

The rear aerofoil blades are also made from carbon fibre and can be mechanically adjusted to various track conditions.

The sophisticated aerodynamics not only make a significant contribution to high driving dynamics and stability on fast circuits.

The standard ceramic high-performance compound brake system with black painted brake calipers and white lettering is also characterised by low weight and high performance.

Meanwhile, the AMG Traction Control is adjustable and can be fine-tuned without any ESP brake intervention whatsoever to provide the ideal level of assistance for each driver and each track situation.

The interior design emphasises the prime position of the GT Black Series where exclusive nappa leather is combined with sporty Dinamica microfibre in black with orange contrasting topstitching.

The instrument panel and the newly designed lightweight door panels, which are now equipped with loop pull handles instead of conventional handles, are trimmed in black Dinamica microfibre.


Evergrande NEV starts first mass production, say sources

                SHANGHAI/HONG KONG: China Evergrande New Energy Vehicle Group started its first mass production today, two sources with direct knowledge of the matter said.

Mass production for its inaugural Hengchi 5 sport-utility vehicles at its Tianjin production facilities came 12 days ahead of schedule, the people said, and the firm plans to hold an official ceremony in the next two weeks.

The firm, a major unit of cash-strapped property developer China Evergrande Group, has been struggling to secure external investment for its operations.

Evergrande NEV declined to comment.

Evergrande has introduced several EV models, but the rest have yet to enter mass production.

The EV firm said in November it had been negotiating with potential buyers regarding the disposal of some assets and talking to potential investors about funding.


Audi Online Showroom debuts, Q3 Sportback arrives at RM302K

                PETALING JAYA: Malaysians keen to get a standard Audi or the RS models can now do so online via the Audi Online Showroom (www.audisale.my).

Audi in Malaysia made the announcement today in conjunction with the arrival of the Q3 Sportback and the opening of the order books for the upcoming RS models.

Priced at RM301,739, the Q3 Sportback is now available throughout the dealer network as well as the Audi Online Showroom.

The Q3 Sportback is the first Audi compact crossover. The car combines the strong presence and versatile everyday convenience of an SUV with the sporty elegance and handling of a coupé.

 Q3 Sportback interior.

Beneath its expressive design, it offers a variable interior with a digital operating concept from the full-size automotive class.

Differentiating from the Q3, which comes with a 1.4 TFSI engine, the Q3 Sportback is offered in Malaysia exclusively with the more powerful 2.0 TFSI powerplant paired with quattro all-wheel drive. To enhance the driving experience, the car is equipped with Audi drive select and progressive steering.

Other notable design and technology features on the Q3 Sportback include 19-inch Audi Sport cast aluminium wheels in 5-twin arm design in matt titanium look, full LED headlights and rear lights with dynamic turn indicators and the black appearance package that highlights the model’s sporty persona.

The Audi smartphone interface works seamlessly with both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, thus unlocking many digital functionalities, while the Audi virtual cockpit, which is a fully digital display and the latest Audi MMI system enable safe access to these features.

Audi Online Showroom and RS models

The Audi Online Showroom complements the overall dealer network for the brand in Malaysia and serves as a platform to showcase upcoming Audi models including some first-in-market offerings.

The digital platform will be constantly updated and refreshed to include more models as they become available.

RS models available for booking at present are the RS 4 Avant, RS 5 Sportback, RS 6 Avant and RS 7 Sportback. Being available on an indent basis will provide fans and customers with more flexibility to customise the cars to their specific preferences and taste.

RS 4 Avant (Specs)
The RS 4 Avant is a practical family car that has performance attributes. It is powered by a 2.9 litre bi-turbo engine with 450hp, mated to a specially tuned 8-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission and paired with quattro all-wheel drive.

RS 5 Sportback (Specs)
The RS 5 Sportback combines good looks, limitless power and practicality. Wider and more squat than the standard A5 Sportback, the car promises top performance with its specially tuned 2.9-litre bi-turbo 450hp engine and the right level of aggression.

RS 6 Avant (Specs)
Whether it is for a business meeting or a family outing, the RS 6 Avant is game. The RS 6 Avant is a high-performance car packed with everyday usability and charismatic looks. Under the sculpted bonnet lies a 4.0-litre V8 bi-turbo engine delivering 600hp and 800Nm of torque, taking just 3.6 seconds to complete the century sprint.

RS 7 Sportback (Specs)
The RS 7 Sportback is an elegant yet powerful grand tourer. It has a 600hp 4.0-litre V8 bi-turbo engine with the latest quattro technology to deliver performance in every condition.


Mechanic charged with reckless driving, causing death of four family members

Aliff Asyraf (left) pleaded not guilty to the charge. — Bernama
KUALA LUMPUR: A mechanic was charged in the magistrate’s court here today with reckless driving resulting in a road crash that caused the death of four family members on the Sultan Iskandar Expressway last month.

Aliff Asyraf Abu, 27, who was in a neck brace and using a walking stick, however, pleaded not guilty to the charge before magistrate Amanina Mohamad Anuar.

He was charged with driving a four-wheel-drive pick-up truck in a reckless manner, resulting the vehicle to veer into an opposite lane and crash into a multi-purpose vehicle, causing the death of the driver and three others in the ill-fated multi-purpose vehicle.

The crash, which killed C. Tinisha, 31; her husband, P. Milan Damani, 32; and their children, four-year-old Ishaan Ivaan Damani and three-year-old Rihaan Ivaan Damani, occurred at 11.20pm on Feb 27, 2022, on the Sultan Iskandar Expressway.

The charge against Aliff Asyraf was framed under Section 41(1) of the Road Transport Act 1987, which provides for imprisonment of between five and 10 years and fine of up to RM50,000, as well as losing his eligibility to hold a driving licence for at least five years, upon conviction.

Aliff Asyraf, represented by lawyer Muhammad Izzat Hasizan, was allowed bail of RM12,000 with one surety and the court also ordered that his driving licence be suspended pending disposal of the case.

The court also set April 28 for mention.

Deputy Public Prosecutor Siti Nursyuhada Abd Rauf prosecuted.


Lexus reveals extended version of Black Panther commercial

LOS ANGELES: As announced earlier this month, Lexus will once again be participating in advertising’s biggest day of the year with a commercial in Super Bowl LII on Sunday, February 4.

Today, the brand has released a 60-second extended digital version of the ad, which was created in partnership with Marvel Studios’ highly anticipated film “Black Panther,” opening in U.S. theaters February 16.

The spot, “Long Live the King,” pairs the flagship luxury performance sedan 2018 Lexus LS 500 F SPORT with the Black Panther, played by Chadwick Boseman. A 30-second version of the ad will air during the third quarter of the Super Bowl.

The high-impact story in “Long Live the King” revolves around the character of T’Challa in his role as Black Panther recovering stolen vibranium, the mythical ore found only in the Black Panther’s home of Wakanda, and his nearly simultaneous need to represent his country as king at a world leadership conference.

The Lexus LS 500 F SPORT is the only vehicle both powerful and luxurious enough to keep pace with a Super Hero and escort a king. With appearances by the country’s elite bodyguards, the Dora Milaje, and unexpected help from Wakanda, “Long Live the King” will engage fans of the Super Bowl and “Black Panther” alike. The Lexus LC 500 luxury performance coupe used in the film also has a cameo.

“There is an authentic match between the duality of both the Black Panther and the LS. The spot utilizes the Black Panther’s life as a Super Hero and as royalty to show the two sides of the LS: performance and luxury,” said Cooper Ericksen, Lexus vice president of marketing. “The stars aligned for this Super Bowl spot, with Lexus launching our flagship sedan and audiences primed for Marvel Studios’ highly anticipated release ‘Black Panther.’ Uniting LS with Black Panther on advertising’s biggest stage was an opportunity we couldn’t pass up.”

The song “Legend Has It” by Run the Jewels, with its driving beats and “step into the spotlight” lyric, provides the perfect soundtrack for the action as the Black Panther and the LS 500 F SPORT make their thrilling debuts. The song, also used in the first trailer for the film, is from the album “Run the Jewels 3,” which debuted at # 1 on Billboard’s Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums chart for the physical release.

“This spot feels beautifully cinematic from start to finish,” said Mindy Hamilton, Marvel’s senior vice president of global partnerships and marketing. “With a character as important as Black Panther and a brand as iconic as Lexus, we knew that we had to rise to the occasion by creating something unforgettable. It’s a climactic moment for all of us as we come together to celebrate this wonderful collaboration and enjoy the big game.”


Next-generation Nissan Juke may show up this year

                LONDON: The Nissan Juke might not be everyone's idea of a stylish crossover, but it's hard to argue with the sales success the Nissan has enjoyed worldwide since it went into production in 2010.

It's no exaggeration to say it's been a huge success story for the Japanese auto giant, but the supermini-SUV segment has moved on, and the competition has upped its game. It's therefore time for an all-new Nissan Juke, and it sounds as though one will be with us later this year.

Sources say the next-generation Juke is imminent and will probably appear this year with an entirely new platform, more environmentally friendly engines, a hybrid version, and significantly upgraded technology. This should allow the Juke to compete seriously with the slew of new subcompact crossovers that have been arriving in the market since the original Juke was launched. These include the likes of the Peugeot 2008, Renault Captur, Jeep Renegade and Kia Soul, and even premium models such as the Audi Q2.

It remains to be seen how far the designers go with the exterior, but what's been done in the US to models such as the Murano and the Rogue suggest a more conservative approach to the styling isn't out of the question, even for a vehicle as renowned for its unique looks as the Juke.

Nissan's chief creative office, Shiro Nakamura, has been quoted as saying the next generation will still be "edgy and less mainstream," but still be recognisable as a Juke.

A new Juke will make the switch to the Renault-Nissan Alliance's Common Module Family CMF-B platform, which the all-new Nissan Micra also uses now. The change to the new platform is a big deal because the current platform is now regarded as slow and expensive to produce, especially compared with the modern standards of its rivals.

The new platform will also open up a new range of engine possibilities, including 1.0-litre three-cylinder turbo petrols that are now so popular. But a 1.5-litre diesel will still be offered for the time being, alongside a 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol engine that's likely to be the top-of-the-range powerplant with around 190bhp.

As mentioned earlier, a hybrid variant is plausible, perhaps using a range-extender powertrain that has already appeared under the hood of the sporty Gripz concept at the Frankfurt Motor Show in 2016.


On the hunt with the Isuzu Safari

The D-Max has gone stylish but loses none of its ruggedness.

LAY your eyes upon this beastly beauty and there may be no turning back, because this is Isuzu’s way of keeping budding owners visually poised in admiration with its D-Max V-Cross 3.0 Safari - dressed only in Venetian Orange Mica for our test.

Although the name can be quite a mouthful, this is one of three 3.0L V-Cross variants introduced in Malaysia last year.

Of late, the pickup truck has garnered substantial popularity, eventually becoming seen as a fun rugged vehicle to own rather than for its commercial applications in the past.

In this case, its not another fun rugged vehicle to own, instead the V-Cross Safari now adds a considerable amount of sporty styling with its bright orange sheet metal and matt grey external furnishings that includes the grille, front bumper guard, side steps, black roof rails and dark-grey 17-inch wheels with 255/65 tyres.

Furthermore, it comes with a V-lid that helps distinguish itself within the pickup truck realm and it’s a stylishly sporty pick up truck that, without question, turns heads even though its priced rather steep at RM118,485.90 (OTR with insurance).

However, we realised that the longer we stood before the Safari, the more we wanted it.

For those who own a Chevrolet Colorado, the cabin will be a familiar sight, but for those who aren’t it’s a dark plastic affair with plenty of stowage compartments for keys, bottles and such.

The plush Italian leather seats with orange piping helps to add a dash of luxury comfort, as does the 6.2-inch live surround sound system with GPS-navigation and a reverse camera.

Under the hood, the Safari’s five-speed automatic with sequential shift is married to a 3.0L 4JJ1-TCX Variable Geometry System (VGS) turbocharged diesel engine - producing 174bhp at 3,600rpm and 380Nm of torque from 1,800 to 2,800rpm.

There’s a certain refinement that comes through to the driver, because rather than being bounced about within the cabin, the suspension soaks up much of the road’s unevenness – a rarity that’s hard to come by.

Prodding the accelerator, the Safari gets up to highway speeds with relative ease thanks to its 380Nm of torque on tap, but for those more familiar with 420Nm of torque, the difference is marginally.

But while there’s much gusto (and roar) during acceleration, the front discs and rear drums are also able to pull on the reins to slow it down decently with quite a good amount of direct feel to it – another great plus point.

Other than being equipped with the standard two-airbag deal, the Safari is impressively equipped with a plethora of safety equipment as standard.

This includes an anti-lock braking system with electronic brake-force distribution and brake assist, traction control and the ever-important electronic stability control to keep the vehicle in check.

Pushing the Safari around tight bends will require a little more skill, especially when there’s more weight to manage.

We were quite pleasantly surprised with the lack of apparent roll that usually puts drivers off from seeking out their vehicle’s handling limits.

In short, the Safari’s handling could be labelled as obedient or even confidence inspiring, perhaps just enough to keep up with the likes of a Ford Ranger / Mazda BT-50.

Overall, we’d dare seek to own this particular pickup truck from Isuzu, bearing in mind that this isn’t the most powerful, nor the most accommodating in payloads, but heck it scores high in both the style and handling departments.

It’s enough to say that Isuzu has done a praiseworthy job in making the Safari attractive enough to even warm up to the notion of becoming future truck owners.


Aston Martin confirms new DBS 770 Ultimate

                LONDON: Aston Martin has confirmed that it will be producing a limited run, final edition version of its DBS flagship.

Though details are thin for now – ahead of the car being revealed in "early 2023" – Aston Martin has stated that the V12 twin-turbocharged engine in the DBS will be tuned up to 760bhp, representing a significant hike on the 715bhp you’ll get from the regular car.

The 770 in the car’s name references the Ultimate’s output in PS.

Even the standard DBS will manage the 0-100kph sprint in just 3.2 seconds – with power sent to the rear wheels via an eight-speed automatic gearbox – so it’s likely that the Ultimate version will be able to shave this time down even further.

As a limited-edition version, just 499 examples of the Ultimate will be produced, according to Aston.

The British firm has also stated that it will act as the "ultimate finale to a bloodline", which suggests that the DBS nameplate won’t be returning to an Aston Martin vehicle.

The DBS badge was first used in 1967, before being resurrected in 2007 as a more focused version of the firm’s DB9.

Even though the standard DBS is capable of generating up to 180kg of downforce at its 340kph top speed, there’s a good chance that Aston Martin engineers will increase this on the Ultimate given the car’s additional performance.

Expect additional aerodynamic tweaks and lighter materials across the board.

Given the extra punch that the Ultimate brings – as well as its limited nature – expect its price tag to far exceed the £257,000 (RM1.4mil) one which accompanies the standard DBS. — PA Media


Suzuki to invest US$1.3bil in India electric vehicle production

                NEW DELHI: Suzuki Motor will invest US$1.3 billion (RM5.5bil) into electric vehicle and battery production in India, the Japanese car maker said Sunday, as it accelerates long-term plans to achieve carbon neutrality.

In a deal signed with the Indian state of Gujarat in the presence of visiting Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida and Indian counterpart Narendra Modi, Suzuki said it planned to increase production capacity for electric vehicle manufacturing in the state.

It aims to begin operations in 2025.

The company will also build a plant making EV batteries on land near its Gujarat plant, while a joint venture — Maruti Suzuki Toyotsu India — will construct a vehicle recycling facility at the same site, the statement said.

"Suzuki's future mission is to achieve carbon neutrality with small cars," the company's president Toshihiro Suzuki said.

The announcement comes as major automakers move to boost production of green cars in a bid to reduce emissions.

Early this month US car titan Ford said it would separate its conventional and electric-auto businesses as it steps up production of emission-free vehicles.

Sony also announced it was teaming up with Honda to create a joint venture that will develop and sell electric vehicles, after its January unveiling of the Vision-S, a new prototype.

Nissan, Renault and Mitsubishi Motors have promised to offer 35 new electric models over the next five years, while Toyota recently hiked its 2030 EV sales goal by 75 percent.


Volvo to celebrate 90th anniversary at Techno Classica

                GOTHENBURG: To mark 90 years since the first car left its facility here on April 14, 1927, Volvo has decided to create a special stand for Techno Classica, the largest classic car show in the world, set to take place in Essen, Germany, between April 5-9.

The Swedish manufacturer is putting together a display that will include a number of landmark models from its illustrious history, but it will also take the opportunity to showcase its newest model too, the all-new XC60 crossover SUV that was only unveiled for the first time at the recent Geneva Auto Show.

The new, second-generation XC60 has some big shoes to fill after the original model — launched some nine years ago — went on to become the biggest-selling premium midsize SUV in Europe. Almost a million units of the original XC60 have now been sold worldwide, and the model now represents as much as 30 percent of Volvo's entire global sales.

Six historic Volvo models will also feature at the show, including the PV654 (1934), PV444 (1957), 1800 S, 145 Estate (1968), the 262C and finally the 850 R.

These six models represent an excellent spread across Volvo's history, from the PV600 series launched in 1929 just two years after the company started, to the 850 R, which was the high-performance take on the very successful Volvo 850 from as recent as 1996.

The 1800 S is perhaps the most iconic Volvo of them all though. Manufactured between 1961 and 1973, the P1800 starred as Simon Templar's car in the hit 1960s TV series "The Saint," and is now a highly sought-after and desirable classic among collectors.


Extended-use Shell Rimula Ultra promises to help optimise fleet ops

                KUALA LUMPUR: Shell Malaysia will soon introduce Rimula Ultra, which it claimed is one of the most advanced fully synthetic heavy-duty diesel engine oils in the world.

The flagship product meets the latest European ACEA E6 and ACEA E9 specifications and manufacturers’ approvals for use in ultra-modern diesel engines that comply with Euro 4 to Euro 6 emission standards.

It offers longer oil life and extended oil-drain intervals of up to 150,000km, better engine wear protection under all terrains and weather conditions as well as better fuel economy. Malaysia is said to be the first Asean market to sell Rimula Ultra.

Shell Malaysia had recently exhibited its range of Rimula lubricants, clean diesel and fuel card at the June 20-22 Malaysia Commercial Vehicle Expo. It was appointed the official fuel and lubricant partner for the expo.

Shell Malaysia said its current range of Rimula lubricants meet API CK-4 specifications and are said to be compatible with biofuels, including B10 biodiesel.

Shell Malaysia said when Rimula is used with its FuelSave Diesel, the benefits are amplified. The fuel promises to keep a vehicle’s engine clean and protected for efficient running, lowering operational costs for fleet operators.

The Shell Card, it added, offers a simple, secure and convenient way for fleet owners to buy fuels and keep their trucks running by enabling access to more than 900 Shell retail stations nationwide. Companies using the fuel card would be issued a single online invoice coupled with data insights for customised solutions.


Nikola may seal order for 100 EVs from port trucking firm

                PHOENIX: Nikola Corp said on Thursday it signed a letter of intent with port trucking firm Total Transportation Services Inc for trials and possible order of 100 vehicles from the electric-truck maker.

Shares of the Phoenix, Arizona-based company surged 7.5% in premarket trading after the announcement.

Total Transportation is a large player at the ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach in southern California, which see up to 14,000 trucks on location in a month.

"The LOI is for 100 zero-emission trucks beginning with a four-truck pilot slated to start in the first half of 2022 and consisting of two BEVs and two FCEVs," said Nikola.

Nikola's Tre BEVs are designed for local deliveries up to 560km, while its Tre FCEV trucks are aimed at longer hauls of up to 800km.


WATCH: Tesla Glass explained

                LOS ANGELES: Tesla posted a video clip last month outlining the technology behind its proprietary Tesla Glass.

Tesla Glass debuted in 2016, and since then, the electric car maker has improved on it, using different materials with the glass to suit different uses.

The special glass is used not only on its cars but is also applied as solar roof tiles in buildings.

In this 2-minute plus video, Tesla Glass director Mike Pilliod, formerly an Apple materials engineer, explains how its glass for the windows has an acoustic layer to dampen out outside noise.

Tesla cars also have glass roofs starting from the Model S, through to the Model X and Model 3 to give the cabin an airy and spacious feel. Its implementation in the Model Y is the best yet, with a seamless curved glass that stretches across the whole cabin.

The massive glass roof in the Model Y meets standards to shield occupants from harmful UV rays. At the same time, the glass roof and windows also have to comply with safety standards if an accident happens.

An important function of the Tesla Glass as used in the front windshield is that it has been designed to act as a lens for its front-facing Autopilot camera.

Oh, one other cool detail. Taking advantage of the expansive glass roof, Tesla cars have a Camp Mode, where occupants can sleep overnight in their cars and look up into a starry night with cabin temperature automatically set. Users can also adjust the temperature to their requirements.


Mercedes shifts Focus to two wheels

Fitness Bike from FOCUS for Mercedes-Benz.
STUTTGART: Mercedes-Benz is partnering with German cycle maker Focus on a new range of suitably exclusive bikes for on- and off-road use.

Consumers can choose from a traditional mountain bike, a road racer, a fitness and training model or an all-out trekking bike, but in each case the design is the same - a proven Focus construction with Mercedes-Benz aesthetic elements.

Each model is finished in black with blue contrasts on the cross bar and around the tail and while Focus's branding takes pride of place on every model in the new collection, the bikes do also feature the Mercedes three-pointed star just above the front forks.

 Fitness Bike.

Due in large to the fact that it will be available in four different frame sizes and with 27.5- or 29-inch wheels, the Mountain bike is likely to offer the broadest appeal. It comes with disc brakes front and rear, a 22-gear Shimano SLX system, front fork suspension and integrated cables -- i.e., the brake lines and gear linkages run through rather than outside the frame. Even the largest model only tips the scales at 11.4kg.

Both the fitness and trekking bikes boast a hydraulic braking system optimized for safe deceleration, a 27-speed gear set-up, and suspension with locking springs. Meanwhile the Trekking bike also gets mudguards, carriers for bags and sturdier wheels and tires.

The Road Racing bike is seriously light, weighing half as much as the trekking model (7.9kg versus 15.6kg) thanks to its carbon fiber construction. It comes with hydraulically activated front and rear brakes, a 22-gear Shimano Ultegra system (so an 11-speed cassette on the rear wheel and paired with a Shimano two-sprocket crank) and a Concept saddle, stem and handlebars.


Proton plans to produce EV by 2027

                KUALA LUMPUR: Proton is in the midst of strengthening its electric vehicle (EV) capabilities and plans to launch and produce its own EV by 2027, said its deputy chief executive officer Roslan Abdullah.

Roslan said Proton has been discussing with potential partners to embark on the venture as it could not just jump into producing EVs without understanding how to sell and market the vehicles.

He said Proton’s EV roadmap started 10 years ago, but it was not pursued due to lack of market demand and technologies.

"So, this next five years (until 2027) will give us ample time to determine which technology is most acceptable, easy to maintain and affordable for consumers and us,” he told reporters after the panel discussion at the Invest Malaysia Series 2 event, titled ‘The Road to EV’ here today.

Before migrating to its own EV, Roslan said Proton would gain more experience by collaborating with the Smart automobile Co Ltd as the latter’s new distributor in Malaysia and Thailand.

"The collaboration with Smart automobile and the distribution of the smart cars will teach us (Proton) how to assemble EVs locally and give us experience and knowledge on the assembly process,” he said.

Smart automobile is a joint venture established by Mercedes-Benz AG and Zhejiang Geely Holding Group Co Ltd.

When asked about the challenges new energy vehicles (NEV) face in penetrating the Malaysian market, Roslan said the solutions would require stronger support from the government, better industry readiness and a shift in customer preference towards EVs.

He said sales of NEVs increased to 3.4 per cent or 13,800 units year to date, with hybrid EVs being more popular than battery-powered EVs.

"There are major challenges to overcome, requiring time and collective effort.

"These challenges include Malaysia not having many affordable EV cars, slow consumer adoption, lack of clarity on EV charging infrastructure development, talent development in the EV segment and lack of investment in related technologies,” he said.

Roslan said more development and support for the EV industry is necessary for it to move forward.

"This includes research and development programmes, investment in the supply chain, technology and providing better EV infrastructure,” he added.


UK watchdog studies 'range anxiety' in electric vehicle charging

                LONDON: Britain’s competition regulator said on Wednesday it would study whether the fast-growing electric vehicle charging sector worked well in helping drivers deal with “range anxiety”, or the worry about not being able to find a chargepoint.

Research showed range anxiety was a key concern for many consumers and ensuring easy access to chargepoints was key to persuading drivers to switch to electric vehicles, the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) said.

Britain will ban new petrol and diesel vehicles from 2030 to help cut greenhouse gas emissions.

There are almost 20,000 vehicle chargepoints, up from around 1,500 in 2011, although more will be needed in the future as this is the only way to power electric vehicles, the CMA said.

“Being able to easily stop off at a petrol station is a standard part of a journey and consumers must trust that electric chargepoints will provide a similarly straight-forward service,” said CMA CEO Andrea Coscelli.

The CMA will look at how to develop a competitive sector while also attracting private investment to help the sector grow, and ensure drivers get the best service from chargepoints.

The CMA said it would consider “how to ensure the sector works well for people now and in the future, which will help to build trust in the service and address any competition issues.”

The review will be completed within a year and look at the supply of chargepoints for plug-in hybrid and all-electric passenger electric cars and light vans.


Mercedes-Benz CEO sees soaring demand, teases electrified AMG platform

                FRANKFURT: Mercedes-Benz is virtually sold out of electric cars as tight supply chains make it tough for the luxury carmaker to keep up with rising demand, its chief executive said today.

Asked about comments by rivals, including Volkswagen, that demand for electric vehicles was outstripping supply, Ola Kaellenius told the FT Future of the Car 2022 conference: "That's largely true for us as well."

Kaellenius said the customer response to the company's EQ family of electrified luxury vehicles had been "so tremendous that we're doing everything we can to get the cars to the customers as fast as we can".

Kaellenius also teased details of a fully-electrified platform for its high performance AMG brand, which he said would be unveiled at a strategy update the company has scheduled for May 19.

"We're now in full development of a fully-dedicated electric architecture for AMG, from the ground up," he said, adding the platform would hit the market "sometime towards end of 2025".


Apple assembler Foxconn aims to supply to about 3 million EVs by 2027

A scooter rider passing by a Foxconn office building in Taipei. — Reuters
TAIPEI: Foxconn aims to provide components or services to 10% of the world's electric vehicles (EVs) by between 2025 and 2027, and has been in talks with multiple car manufacturers for future cooperation, chairman Liu Young-way said today.

The Taiwanese contract manufacturer, formally called Hon Hai Precision Industry Co Ltd and a major supplier to Apple Inc, is looking at growth from sectors such as EVs, digital health and robots in a drive to diversify its global investments.

“We want to push Taiwan’s EV industry to the world,” Liu said here.

In January, automaker Fiat Chrysler said it has plans for a joint venture with Foxconn to build electric cars and develop Internet-connected vehicles in China.

“Hon Hai has to ready our open platform as soon as possible. We need to move fast to grab market share,” he said, referring to Foxconn’s pledge to build an “open platform” to make key EV components including battery and car-internet services to automobile makers.

Foxconn will work with multiple auto makers to reach the goal of 10% global EVs, Liu added, representing around three million vehicles.

Liu, however, declined to provide a revenue target for the EV business or details citing “ongoing talks”.

Foxconn is planning to launch its solid-state battery for EVs in 2024, which is a high-capacity energy storage device that improves on current batteries.

Foxconn’s Taipei-listed shares closed up 0.6% today, outperforming the broad market, which ended 0.6% weaker.

Liu has said earlier this year that Foxconn was working to build supply chains in China and the United States, amid a years-long drive to diversify its investments around the world.


Audi unlikely to produce BMW 8 Series rival

                INGOLSTADT: Although Audi's design supremo Marc Lichte admits he would be eager for his company to produce a luxury coupe to rival BMW's eagerly anticipated new 8 Series, and he does have ideas for such models already, a lack of market demand for such a car means it's unlikely at the moment.

Even though the luxury coupe´ segment appears to be undergoing something of a resurgence at the moment with the Mercedes-Benz S-Class Coupe´, and the upcoming BMW 8 Series and the Polestar 1 from Volvo's performance arm, Audi looks to be staying out of the fray, at least for the moment.

When questioned about the possibility of going head-to-head with the likes of BMW and Mercedes and others in the two-door luxury coupe segment, Lichte told Autocar , "I love the shape of a two-door coupe´, but it is also true that the [sales] volumes [for them] are much lower than for four-doors. In the future, who knows? We have many ideas in this direction."

 The Concept 8 Series shown at the 2017 Frankfurt Motor Show.

It's no secret Audi has moved away from two-door cars in recent times, although the impressive Prologue concept car showcased at the Los Angeles Auto Show in 2014, did give an intriguing insight into how a range-topping Audi coupe´ might look. In fact, the Prologue was one of the first designs Lichte came up with for Audi, and was effectively intended to preview a then-new design language for the brand that could still emerge one day as an A9 two-door flagship coupe´.

If Audi was to relent and decide to produce such a car, there doesn't appear to be room in the schedule for it until at least 2019 anyway, as no fewer than four new Audi models are already fast approaching. The first is a new A6, which will then be followed by the Q8, a new A1 and a new Q3.

Of course, if the 8 Series proves as successful as the X6 SUV coupe´ was with buyers when it was introduced to a sceptical media, Audi may need to have a rethink.


Don't bend the Bugatti — a new bonnet costs a fortune

                HAMBURG: If you are one of the few ultra-rich who drive a Bugatti Chiron Super Sport 300+, you may not need to worry too much about finding "small change" for a repair.

As a matter of interest though, the cost of some spare components for the Bugatti special model is enough to give the owner of a humbler car a heart attack.

Online spare parts dealer parts4USA is offering a front end for the Bugatti Chiron Super Sport 300+ for a staggering €393,754.95 (RM1.8mil). The deal includes the front lip, left and right mudguard and front bonnet. The parts are all new and original.

For that money you could also buy a new supercar.

A regular Chiron front costs around €80,000 (RM375,000) lower front bumper part with front grille retails for €78,750.95 (RM369,000).

A Chiron costs at least US$3 million (RM13.5mil) to buy so the cost of replacement parts might be seen only as a minor drawback.

By comparison, a McLaren 720s front bumper cover seems cheap at €9,842.95 (RM46,000) while a front fender for an Aston Martin DBX is a real snip at €4,920.95 (RM23,000).

It's worth remembering that all supercars are expensive to maintain and the earlier Bugatti Veyron is no exception.

The engine is equipped with a dry-sump oiling system and 16 drain plugs which can only be accessed after removing certain components of the underbody.

That explains why a Bugatti Veyron oil change usually costs between €20,000 and €25,000 (RM117,000).


Daimler invests in super-fast battery charging technology

                STUTTGART: If petrol and diesel really are going to be abandoned, the problem of the limited range of electric vehicles has to be overcome, or does it? The current emphasis in EV development appears to be on creating such a battery that can store more electricity for greater vehicle operating ranges.

But as ranges of over 480km are now being achieved by the likes of Tesla, it seems the emphasis might be shifting to charging times. And that's where StoreDot comes in because it's working on developing a way an electric vehicle can be fully recharged in as little as five minutes.

So far, the Israeli company has raised some US$60 million in investment, which has come from a number of investors that include high-profile contributors such as Daimler, Samsung, and Chelsea FC owner Roman Abramovitch.

StoreDot will use the investment for developing what it calls "FlashBattery," a replacement for traditional Li-ion battery technology that will deliver at least 480km of range on a single charge.

The obvious aim is for FlashBatteries to go into production electric vehicles as a replacement for current forms of electric power storage. Daimler's involvement makes that a more realistic eventuality as it's already producing electric vehicles, so StoreDot and Daimler will be able to jointly work on vehicle-friendly solutions.

In both Europe and the United States, studies have shown more than 75 percent of motorists do less miles per day on average in their vehicles than the range already offered by today's EVs.

If an electric car could be recharged fully in as little as five minutes, the days of "range-anxiety" could be over, and electricity could replace diesel and petrol faster than many people would ever have believed.


Aston Martin sees DBX orders offset Valkyrie supercar delays

                LONDON: Aston Martin Lagonda Global Holdings Plc expects demand for its DBX SUV to help balance out delays for the Valkyrie supercar as the carmaker pushes ahead in its turnaround plan.

The Gaydon, England-based carmaker expects "meaningful growth” in 2022, as it rolls out new variants of the DBX, including the 707, billed as the most powerful SUV, Aston said Wednesday.

The manufacturer is also working on a V12 version of the Vantage sports car.

Aston says the new variants, along with price increases across a range of products, will help improve profitability.

The company has spent the last 18 months restructuring after a rescue by Canadian billionaire Lawrence Stroll.

The 62-year-old fashion mogul injected cash and forged closer ties with Daimler AG’s Mercedes-Benz in the shift to electric and self-driving cars.

The carmaker reported fourth quarter earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation of £65.6 million (RM373mil), falling short of analysts’ estimates of £81 million (RM461mil).

The company said it is on track to achieve its medium-term revenue and profit targets.

Aston expects to deliver more than 6,600 vehicles in 2022, a rise of 8%, and plans to spend about £300 million (RM1.7bil)) on capital expenditures and research and development, it said in a statement. Net debt rose to £892 million (RM5bil).

The carmaker will have hybrid variants of all its models in the next two years, with the first fully electric cars by 2025, Stroll said in an interview.

Aston also plans to deliver as many as 90 Valkyries this year.

Aston, alongside other carmakers like Stellantis NV, said that tight global supply chains continue to challenge production.

In January, Aston said delayed deliveries of the £2.4 million Valkyrie had reduced its earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation by about £15 million.

Still, the company said it sold more than 3,000 DBXs in the year, giving it a 20% share of the luxury SUV market.

"We always mentioned that 2023 is the year we become profitable,” Stroll said in an interview with Bloomberg Television.


DS car brand plans to go electric

                PARIS: PSA Group's premium DS brand has announced plans to go electric by 2025, with fully electric vehicles or hybrid models.

The brand's ambition is to be one of the global leaders in electrified cars in its market. A first key step will be the unveiling of the first-ever fully electric DS at the Oct 4-14 Paris Motor Show.

This will be followed at the end of 2019 by the release of a production DS 7 Crossback E-Tense 4x4, an eagerly awaited rechargeable hybrid with four-wheel drive and a 50km range in electric mode.

The announcement comes as part of a growing trend in the car world. Volvo and Porsche, for example, have already announced plans to go electric by 2020 and 2030 respectively.

The news also comes a few days after the brand revealed a new concept car called the X E-Tense. This vehicle offers a powerful vision (up to 1,000kW in "circuit" mode, equivalent to 1,360 horsepower) of the EV for 2035.

Note that DS has also been part of the FIA Formula E electric-car racing series since its inaugural season in 2014.


New Toyota Hilux and Fortuner launched - VIDEO

 Nakajima (seated) and Ismet with the new Hilux today.PETALING JAYA: The all-new generations of the Toyota Hilux and Fortuner were jointly launched today. Both are locally assembled with the Hilux priced from RM89,900 and the Fortuner from RM186,900.The Hilux is available nationwide from today, while the Fortuner will only hit showrooms in June. Distributor UMW Toyota Motor is targeting to sell 27,000 units of the Hilux and 1,400 units of Fortuner by the end of this year.The Hilux and Fortuner models are part of the Innovative international Multi-purpose Vehicles project (referred to as the ‘IMV Project’) and shared many parts and systems for cost savings. Under the IMV strategy, all product development and manufacturing are done at specific locations around the world other than engineering R&D in Japan.READ MORE: Quick drive of Hilux and FortunerWhile based on the same platform, the Fortuner has a different rear suspension. Both models use independent double wishbone in front but the Fortuner uses rear coil springs for better handling and a more comfortable ride. In contrast, the Hilux has typical leaf springs at the back.Both models have fresh new styling. Aerodynamic performance has also been improved to give better stability at high speeds and reduce wind noise. Their interiors are also even more passenger car-like than before with high-quality materials and additional convenience features. On hand to explain the key features of the two models was Hilux/Fortuner chief engineer Hiroki Nakajima, who is also a Toyota managing officer.Hilux
With local market share at 52%, the Hilux remains the best-selling model in the 4x4 pick-up segment in the country. The 8th-generation Hilux is offered through six variants in Double Cab and Single Cab configurations with two powertrain options - the 2.4 litre and 2.8-litre. Highlighting its workhorse nature, all versions get a 6-speed manual gearbox except the 2.8G and 2.4G, which come with a 6-speed auto box.
These diesel engines are new and replace the previous 3.0L and 2,5L respectively. Both are part of the recently developed Global Diesel engine series. This series is characterised  by stronger low-end torque delivery, better response for acceleration, greater reliability under high stress and improved fuel efficiency.The 2.8-litre engine makes 175hp at 3,400rpm, 9% more than the 3.0-litre lump. Peak torque of 450Nm from 1,600rpm to 2,400rpm is also 31% more. The 2.4-litre turbodiesel engine makes 148hp at 3,400 rpm, 4% higher than the outpit of the 2.5-litre engine used before. Torque is higher at 400Nm from 1,600rpm and 2,000rpm, 17% more.The four-cylinder engine uses a high-pressure commonrail fuel delivery technology together with a turbocharger that has an electronically-controlled variable nozzle (VNT) for responsiveness. Weight and internal friction have been reduced while the intercooler is relocated to the front from the top for more effective cooling. Nakajima said a robust protection system in front minimised the risk of the intercooler being damaged in an accident.One of the highlights of the new generation is the stronger chassis frame as well as bodyshell. For example, the bodyshell of the new Hilux has 45% more spot weld points to improve body rigidity. High tensile steel plates are also used in the upper and lower body to improve strength and safety but without adding more weight. The latest structural enhancements make the frame more long-lasting while also improving ride comfort and handling. Crash safety is also improved as the chassis frame is stronger and has better impact absorption.“The Hilux model had maintained its popularity with over 200,000 units of the outgoing generation have been sold throughout Malaysia since launched in 2005.  It became one of the best-selling models for UMW Toyota Motor the past 10 years." said UMW Toyota Motor president Datuk Ismet Suki.Fortuner
The new Fortuner comes in two variants and the price starts from RM186,900 for Peninsular Malaysia.  Customers have a choice of either the same 2.4-litre turbodiesel engine found in the Hilux or a proven 2.7-litre petrol engine. In its second generation, the model is relatively young in the the Toyota line-up, having been introduced 12 years ago.
It has been restyled and marketed as a premium and classy 7-seat SUV with the robustness of traditional SUVs. It used an all-new ladder frame chassis that has been made more rigid for durability, confident handling, ride comfort and low levels of Noise, Vibration and Harshness (NVH).It has flared wheel arches and a floating roof appearance due to wraparound styling on the rear roof pillars, similar to the Lexus RX. The 2.4L version gets bi-LED projector headlamps while the 2.4L uses halogen lights. The cabin was designed for greater comfort and convenience in a move to make it more like a premium car interior. Soft-touch materials are used in key contact areas, 4-spoke steering wheel has switches, 8-way power adjustment of driver's seat, and more legroom in second row, with reclining function in third row. There's also plenty of cubby holes and storage spaces to fit a modern, active lifestyle.The 2.7-litre petrol engine is the same as before but now comes with Dual VVT-i to increase efficiency and responsiveness, It makes 164hp at 5,200rpm with peak torque of 245Nm at 4,000rpm. Both versions are fitted with a 6-speed automatic gearbox; manual selection is available via the sequential function. For the higher grade, the driver can choose gears from the steering wheel using paddle shifters. A Drive Mode switch gives the driver a ECO (for better fuel efficiency) or POWER (for performance) mode. If neither is chosen, the default mode provides a balance of fuel economy and performance.Both variants have Auto Disconnecting Differential (ADD) which allows engagement of the front differential from 2WD to 4WD while the vehicle is moving. New to the latest Fortuner is an Electronic Transfer Dial, a rotary dial instead of the traditional second lever that direct power to the front axle with High and Low ranges.Common to both
The interior refinement owes much to Nakajima, whose previous experience was focused on cars rather than pick-ups.
For a more pleasant drive, the levels of NVH have been lowered significantly that Toyota claims occupants won’t believe there are in a pick-up truck or SUV. Considerable effort went into suppression of NVH, starting with an improved body structure that helps prevent road and mechanical noise entering the cabin as well as generous use of insulating materials. As in many premium SUVs nowadays, the new Fortuner has a Smart Entry and Push Start System.Additionally, a feature which will delight owners is the power rear door on the Fortuner 2.7SRZ that allows the rear door to open and close at the touch of a button.Such feature is usually available only on a more expensive SUV model.The latest Hilux and Fortuner come with many active and passive safety features which are similar to what is offered in passenger cars. For example, ABS is standard for every variant of the Hilux and Fortuner along with 3 front SRS airbags (the third one is for the driver’s knee) and 3-point auto-retracting seatbelts for every occupant. For the top variants of both models, there are also 4 additional airbags at the outer sides of the front seats and over the windows for a total of 7 airbags (the Hilux is the first in its class with this many airbags).A new feature is Active Traction Control (A-TRC) which mimics the function of the limited-slip differential (LSD) for maximising traction on challenging terrain or surfaces. This gives the driver confidence to concentrate on driving rather than worrying if he will be stuck.As with all the latest models offered by UMW Toyota Motor since April 1 this year,  the new Hilux and Fortuner come with a 5-year warranty, subject to terms and conditions. The fully-backed warranty is transferable to the next owner if it is still in effect when sold off.READ MORE: Hilux to lead model launches in 2016New Toyota Hilux spotted in Shah Alam


All-new Honda CR-V European specifications revealed

                LONDON: Familiar vehicle models don't get much bigger-selling than the Honda CR-V, so this is a crucial time for Honda as it releases European pricing and specification details of its all-new fifth-generation version of the compact crossover.

It's always great to hear about exciting new models, but major car makers like Honda can't afford to take their eye off the ball by neglecting their existing bread-and-butter nameplates in the pursuit of all that's new and shiny.

Though some observers might call the CR-V a rival to the popular SEAT Ateca, it's really the other way round, as SEAT would love the Ateca to get anywhere near the global sales of the CR-V.

When the latest version of the CR-V goes on sale in September, prices will start from around €29,000 (RM138,000), and as well as the restyled exterior and interior there will be some major revisions to the CR-V format. That's because for the first time in its illustrious life, the CR-V will be available with the option of seven seats, and also as a hybrid.

The entry-level model for the 2019 model year will be the S, and from there the range will go onwards and upwards to the SE, SR and the top-of-the-line EX. The SR will boast leather upholstery and advanced safety features such as blind spot warning and cross traffic monitoring, while the top-spec EX adds a heated steering wheel and rear seats, a head-up display, an electric tailgate and a panoramic sunroof.

Under the bonnet there will be a choice of three different powerplants, although both the conventional petrol engines are based on the same 1.5-litre turbocharged unit. The base engine develops 170bhp and comes mated to a manual gearbox and front-wheel drive in the entry level S and the SE, while SE, SR and EX models can be optioned with four-wheel drive. The SE, SR and EX are available with a 188bhp version of the engine, which also gets Honda's impressive CVT transmission.

For an additional €1,900 (RM9,000), the CR-V can be had with seven seats in SE and SR variants, with a manual or an automatic gearbox.

The CR-V will also offer a hybrid engine option for the first time this year, a 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine connected to a pair of electric motors which Honda is grandly calling the Intelligent Multi Mode Drive (i-MMD). The system breaks from recent hybrid convention a little, as one of the motors is for propulsion, while the other is primarily an electric generator.


Thrilling race action at Toyota Gazoo Racing this weekend: October 20 - 21

                SERDANG: Thrilling race action and a multitude of activities await spectators at Round 2 of the Toyota Gazoo Racing Festival and Malaysia’s premier street-racing series the Toyota Vios Challenge which will be held at the Malaysia Agro Exposition Park Serdang (MAEPS) in Selangor this weekend from Oct 20 (Day 1)  to 21 (Day 2) from 8am to 7pm.

The two-day festival will showcase the preview of a brand new Toyota Rush, test drives, promotions and celebrity performances to thrilling race action by racers competing in the Promotional, Sporting and Super Sporting classes respectively on a purpose-built street circuit.

The opening round of the Toyota Gazoo Racing Festival and the first two races of the Toyota Vios Challenge was held in Kuala Terengganu in August (Day 1 and Day 2) which attracted more than 20,000 spectators.

“Toyota is All About the Drive, and the Toyota Gazoo Racing Festival provides an ideal platform for our customers to experience this. We invite everyone to come see for themselves the reliability, durability, safety, competitiveness and performance of our vehicles, in particular the 1.5-litre Vios, in the hands of racers competing in the Toyota Vios Challenge,” said UMW Toyota Motor Sdn Bhd president Ravindran K.

“One of the highlights of the Toyota Gazoo Racing Festival at MAEPS, will be the exclusive preview and test drive/taxi ride of the All-new Toyota Rush, a 1.5-litre compact sports utility vehicle (SUV),” he added.

Activities for spectators include:

- Display and test drive of Toyota’s latest range of models
- All-new Toyota Rush Preview
- Concert by the Toyota Gazoo Racing celebrities,
- Promotional activities,
- Superfans Signing Session (a chance to mingle with the celebrity drivers),
- Appearance by Baby Shark mascot,
- Display and sales of merchandise booths,
- Stage games,
- Gathering of car clubs,
- Simulator racing challenge,
- Drift performance by Toyo Tyres
- Lucky draw.

After Kuala Terengganu in August and this weekend’s Round 2 at MAEPS, the festival is scheduled to travel to the Batu Kawan Stadium in Penang in February 2019; with the finale being contested at the Sepang International Circuit in April 2019.


'Humble and hidden' auto suppliers driving the EV revolution

                WOERT (Germany): The shift to electric cars may pose an existential threat to suppliers of combustion engines but for auto parts firms such as TE Connectivity the challenge is keeping up with demand.

It makes the connectors that link miles of cables in cars to all things electrical, from sensors to fuel injection systems to infotainment - and if there's anything the cars of an electric era will need, it's larger and ever more complex connectors.

That's why TE spent US$125 million to open a new building in 2020 dedicated to electric vehicle (EV) parts at a factory tucked away in a shallow valley in the small town of Woert in southern Germany.

And that's why it's on the lookout for acquisitions or partnerships to keep expanding its auto business, chief executive Terrence Curtin told Reuters: "We're going to continue to add capacity."

As legacy auto parts suppliers figure out if and when to sell combustion engine businesses or buy EV parts makers, TE and rivals in the connectors or sensors businesses such as Sensata Technologies, Amphenol Corp and Molex are looking to supply higher-value components and do more development work with carmakers going through a massive transition.

"All these automakers talking about moving their fleets to electric and making promises about range are incapable of doing that without suppliers like TE," says William Kerwin, an analyst at Morningstar who covers TE, Sensata and Amphenol.

Auto parts account for over 40% of TE's US$15 billion in revenue, making it one the biggest car suppliers most people have never heard of. Its US$43 billion market value is far bigger than Nissan and Renault combined - and more than three times heavyweight supplier Continental.

TE has a price-to-earnings ratio of about 18, Amphenol and Sensata are in the 20s, while Continental trades at about 10.

European demand explosion

TE's Curtin said car parts suppliers and automakers alike had been caught out by an explosion in demand for EVs in Europe over the past two years - and with everyone playing catch-up TE's new facility was running at double its planned production.

While a global shortage of semiconductors has hit overall car production, Curtin said automakers have been using the chips they do have to prioritise EVs over fossil fuel vehicles - putting ever more strain on suppliers such as TE.

The challenge TE faces is getting the timing and scale of its expansion right, given the EV transition and shift to self-driving cars could run into speed bumps, such as an end to subsidies or safety concerns, Curtin said.

Because for TE, electrification means going bigger.

The far greater power needed by EVs means TE must develop larger and more complex components to handle the extra current, without causing fires.

TE's conventional parts have up to five components but its newer EV parts have up to 50 components. The supplier also now buys tonnes of aluminium, which is lighter and cheaper than copper, to make up portions of those larger parts.

In the older part of the Woert factory, machines spit out 16 connectors for fossil fuel cars a second. In the new building, more complex and costly machines, some supplied by Germany's Manz, crank out larger copper connectors with welded alloy springs for EV charge ports at a far slower pace.

TE also makes a large connector here that sits atop an EV battery module - an EV has up to 12 modules - and serves as its brain, measuring each battery cell's performance while a tiny semiconductor measures their temperature.

The new facility in Woert can make 2 million such connectors a year but demand continues to soar.

"We're going to need more," said Matthias Lechner, TE's head of Europe, Middle East and Africa, adding that TE planned to manufacture more at a plant in Hungary and elsewhere.

Lechner, who describes TE as "humble and hidden", says its connectors can reduce EV charging time by 10 minutes, an edge carmakers can sell to consumers.

Data connectors

CEO Curtin says EVs and self-driving cars will double the value of the parts TE supplies from about US$70 now for the average fossil fuel car. That means the payoff could be huge.

EVs almost doubled their global share of vehicle sales to 6% in 2021, according to research group JATO Dynamics, and that share is only set to rise.

Europe's auto supplier market will grow to 330 billion euros in 2030 from 216 billion now, driven by software, EVs and electronics, McKinsey estimates, as firms tackle chip bottlenecks and cost pressure while investing in growth.

"We're observing a double transformation," McKinsey partner Timo Moeller said.

TE's Woert site employs 2,200 people and is adding more engineers and technicians, as well as different machines to make connectors for data in self-driving cars - because unlike EV parts, tiny connections are better for moving data.

TE has three auto parts factories in Germany and another five across Europe. Worldwide, it has 29 factories dedicated to its automotive business.

Morningstar's Kerwin said TE faces the same risks as others in a cyclical business such as the auto industry.

But he said TE had a "sticky" relationship with customers and has embedded engineers with carmakers to develop products for vehicles in an electric age.

"The writing is on the wall that you have to play into electrification if you want to succeed," Kerwin said.


Ford’s stock slump under CEO Hackett now exceeds his predecessor

                DETROIT: Ford stock has fallen further under chief executive officer Jim Hackett (pic) than it did during the leadership of his predecessor, who was ousted by the company’s board.

The automaker’s shares have declined 38% since Hackett became CEO in May 2017, replacing Mark Fields, who was pushed out by Ford directors unhappy with the direction of the company. During the 35-month tenure of Fields as CEO, Ford’s stock fell 37%.

Hackett is under pressure to accelerate his US$11 billion turnaround plan after a disastrous rollout of the redesigned Explorer SUV led to dismal earnings and a disappointing profit forecast.

While Hackett maintains the support of executive chairman Bill Ford, great-grandson of founder Henry Ford, he shook up management last month and installed Jim Farley as his new No. 2 executive to speed up the company’s revival.

Investors have continued to sell off Ford shares, which fell 4.8% to close at US$6.74 in New York trading on Thursday, the lowest in almost 11 years.

"The company must earn back the trust of the market by delivering results ... as in not missing numbers for the rest of this year and showing a real path to improving profitability significantly,” Adam Jonas, an analyst for Morgan Stanley, wrote in a March 3 research note. He rates Ford the equivalent of a buy but last month switched his top pick from Ford to General Motors Co.


Third national car project: DreamEdge Sdn Bhd to be driver with Daihatsu aid

                CYBERJAYA: DreamEdge Sdn Bhd has been appointed to drive the third national car project, said International Trade and Industry Minister Darell Leiking.

While Japan's Daihatsu Motor will provide technology support, it will not have a stake in the business.

Leiking said the Government would consider offering tax incentives for the business, which would be wholly privately funded.

The ministry said in a statement that the new car would be fully designed and developed by Malaysian engineers, focusing on new upper body; interior and human-machine interface systems; ride & handling; as well as minimising noise, vibration & harshness.

DreamEdge founder and CEO Khairil Adri Adnan said the first model would be a C-segment sedan using hybrid technology. Examples of C-segment cars are Kia Cerato, Mazda3 and Honda Civic.

He said DreamEdge was looking for more money to fund the project and said it had already secured "a few hundred millions of (ringgit)" to date.

A prototype would be revealed in March 2020, and the car is aimed for market launch in March 2021. The new model has yet to be named.

READ MORE:
Third national car project may use govt funds after all. Here's what Dr M says
Indonesia president signs new EV decree to bolster industry

Headquartered in Cyberjaya, DreamEdge is an engineering services company catering to various industries such as automotive, rail, electronics, energy, defence, precision equipment and tooling design.

According to the company's website, DreamEdge started in 2007 with three engineers in a shop office, before growing to today's workforce of over 100 engineers and operations at its research and development Digital Design Centre at iTech Tower, Cyberjaya.

DreamEdge also has a Additive Manufacturing and Prototyping Centre at AutoVille Cyberjaya, an Innovation and Technology Centre located within Sirim, Bukit Jalil, a Digital Engineering Design Centre in Taiping, Perak as well as an research and development office at Shibuya, Tokyo and facilities in Istanbul.

The company's website also proudly notes that it is a product of the country's Look East policy, and inculcates the Japanese working culture in its employees.

DreamEdge said it has secured contracts for design as well research and development works from clients in Japan, Britain, Austria, Brazil, Saudi Arabia, and United Arab Emirates.

"These contracts can be in the form of projects that can vary from a few thousand ringgit for small scale engineering deliverables to millions of ringgit for turnkey projects e.g. new vehicle development, which involves design, prototype development and developing systems for mass production," the website said.

DreamEdge's Khairil graduated in Bachelor of Science Electronics and Engineering from Polytechnic University Japan.

His biography on DreamEdge's website states he had a 10-year stint with Digital Process Limited, Japan (Dipro) which is a leading global provider of CAD/CAM/CAE and BOM/PDM solution and services in engineering and manufacturing.

He also won a Young Inventor award from Switzerland for Best Malaysian Invention, when he was 16 years old after being inspired by the American 80’s television series Knight Rider and building a car that could be controlled remotely.


Electric cars no threat to those with heart implants, says study

                BERLIN: With the rise of the electric car came a fear among millions of people with heart implants that the electromagnetic fields produced by electric cars could cause a potentially fatal suspension of the heart pumping mechanism of implants or provoke shock deliveries of implanted defibrillators.

However, a study at the German Heart Centre in Munich of 108 participants living with heart implants or pacemakers suggests that vehicle interiors of electric cars are well enough shielded against electromagnetic fields.

Likewise, during the charging process – whereby even stronger electromagnetic fields are generated – there was no evidence found that suggested the performance of the implants was affected or impaired.

 A doctor at the National Heart Institute in Kuala Lumpur showing how a dual chamber pacemaker works in a model of a heart. — Bernama

Each study participant was assigned one of the four electric cars and analysed as they accelerated on a rolling test bench to a speed of 120kph and, later, charged the car.

Despite the positive findings of the study, the constantly evolving technology around electric cars and their charging processes means that a complete and permanent “all-clear” cannot be given to the vehicles.

Millions of people worldwide suffer from heart failure and cardiac arrhythmias and require the use of a pacemaker or an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) under the skin - both of which are responsive to electromagnetic fields.


Facing tech threat, Daimler, BMW to combine car-sharing businesses

                FRANKFURT: Daimler and BMW have joined forces to expand their businesses in new services such as car-sharing and electric vehicle charging to compete with Uber in the United States and Didi Chuxing in China.

Under the terms of their deal, which includes car-sharing units Car2Go and DriveNow as well as ride-hailing, parking and charging services, Daimler and BMW will each hold a 50 percent stake in a joint venture.

They said their goal was to offer customers a system of intelligent, seamlessly connected mobility services that could rapidly be expanded around the world, while continuing to compete on the market for luxury cars. Daimler is the owner of the Mercedes brand.

“As pioneers in automotive engineering, we will not leave the task of shaping future urban mobility to others,” said Daimler chief executive Dieter Zetsche.

Consultancy PwC has said that conventional carmakers will become marginalised by cash-rich technology firms if they do not develop pay-per-mile mobility services.

Their share of global auto industry profits may fall from 85 percent to less than 50 percent by 2030, it said.

Evercore ISI analyst Arndt Ellinghorst said the deal between Daimler and BMW seemed to make sense for consumers. “As with many things related to shared mobility/connectivity services, consumers want a ‘one-app’ solution rather than a multitude of standalone offerings,” he said.

“Industry-wide collaboration will need to materially increase if carmakers want to have a realistic chance to turn ‘new mobility’ services into profitable revenue generators,” he added.

The deal will have no impact on the operating profit margin of BMW’s core automotive segment, the companies said.

Daimler agreed earlier this month to buy Europcar’s 25 percent stake in Car2Go for 70 million euros, a move seen at the time as paving the way for closer co-operation with BMW.


Fisker reveals technology behind Orbit

                LOS ANGELES: Electric vehicles do things differently from combustion engine-powered models in a number of ways, such as not needing any sort of gearbox as the electric motors drive the axles directly. Now Fisker is going a step further with its latest electric project, the Orbit, which is an autonomous shuttle bus with the electric motors in the wheels themselves.

The Orbit, the result of a partnership between US-based Fisker Inc. and China's Hakim Unique Group, is about as far away as we could get from the high-performance electric prototypes we've been seeing a lot of lately as as it's an entirely passenger-carrying-focused shuttle bus designed for urban environments.

But instead of using a bus stop in the way a traditional bus service would, the idea behind the Orbit is it would pick passengers up from their desired location along the route. Passengers would request a ride using a smartphone app, but the shuttles would operate on set routes and not in the same way a ride-sharing service like Uber and Waymo will pick up and drop wherever the passenger requests.

The Chinese partner behind the operation is expected to handle distribution in Asian cities.

A British technology company called Protean Electric has developed the in-wheel motors used in what's called the Protean Drive system. By using this system instead of a more traditional motor setup, and combined with the autonomous capabilities of the shuttle, it means passenger space in the Orbit is maximised compared other vehicles of a similar size.

The in-wheel system uses a permanent magnet and synchronous electric motor, which gives each of the four wheels 109bhp. In most of its applications, the Orbit is likely to use two-wheel drive, but four-wheel drive will be available for more specialised applications. It therefore means the shuttle will be available with powertrains offering 218bhp or 436bhp.

Things start to get really interesting when it comes to the real strength of electric motors, which is torque. Each motor used produces 1,253Nm of torque, so in theory, a four-wheel-drive version of the Orbit could produce a mind-boggling 5,015Nm of torque. In real-world applications though, the motors are likely to be toned down as that much torque isn't needed for a shuttle bus.

Fisker's founder, Henrik Fisker, says of the new model: "The Orbit already encompasses breakthrough automotive technology, design innovation and exciting touches that will change the way urban populations think about short-trip experiences. The fastest path to fully autonomous vehicles is through shuttles like the Orbit, and we're excited to lead the charge into the future of mobility with such world-class, sustainable technology."

Testing of the Orbit shuttle will get under way later this year and the first Orbit routes will be confirmed and deployed in 2019.


Buemi clinches Formula E title

                LONDON: Switzerland's Sebastien Buemi won the second Formula E electric championship on Sunday with the title settled when he set the fastest lap of the final race here.

The Renault eDams driver collided with Brazilian title rival Lucas Di Grassi, who had started the day on equal points, on the first lap but won thanks to the two extra points awarded for fastest lap.

Frenchman Nicolas Prost, Buemi's team mate and son of four-times Formula One champion Alain Prost, won the two races at London's Battersea Park.

Brazilian Nelson Piquet Jr. won the inaugural Formula E title last year.

In related news, Dragon Racing will compete under a new name after announcing a long-term alliance on Friday with the California-based electric car startup Faraday Future. The partnership will last four years with an option to extend for another four.

The announcement was made during the FIA Formula E London ePrix, and the partnership will begin with Formula E's third series, which starts on Oct 9, 2016. The new team name will be Faraday Future Dragon Racing.

"It's an honour for Dragon Racing to form this ground-breaking alliance with Faraday Future," said Jay Penske, Dragon Racing's team owner and team principal. "Formula E symbolizes a vision for the future of motorsports and the automotive industry, and Faraday Future's strategy for next-generation connected electric vehicles aligns seamlessly with Dragon Racing and Formula E.