Raya exodus: PLUS expects two million vehicles on highways

                KUALA LUMPUR: PLUS Malaysia Berhad (PLUS) anticipates that two million vehicles will use its highway network daily on peak days of Aidilfitri this year.

PLUS chief operating officer Datuk Zakaria Ahmad Zabidi Zabidi said in a statement here the figure translates to a 20% increase in traffic compared with normal days.

The peak days are from April 20 to 21, 24 to 25, April 29 to May 1, and from May 4 to 7.

"Therefore, we advise highway customers to plan for their ‘Balik Kampung’ travel earlier to avoid getting caught up in traffic surges during peak days,” he said today.

In coping with the traffic increase, he said PLUS is preparing and taking various strategies to help travellers enjoy safer and more convenient travel on its highways.

"The strategies include safety, traffic and congestion management, traffic distribution, traffic management at toll plazas, facilities management at rest areas, as well as traffic information dissemination throughout the holiday period,” he said.

Zakaria said to ensure the safety of highway users, PLUS continues to collaborate with the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) and the Road Transport Department (JPJ) for traffic law enforcement as well as carry out continuous road safety advocacy on the highways throughout the festive period.

In addition, he said PLUS also provides an Emergency Response Team comprising police, JPJ, Civil Defence Force, St John's Ambulance and Red Crescent Society at 11 strategic locations on the highway with more than 500 personnel.

"To improve the level of safety on the PLUS highway network including the East Coast Expressway 2  during the festive season, a total of 269 highway patrol teams including PLUSRonda and LPT2Ronda are assigned with patrolling 24 hours a day and to assist highway users in distress and emergencies. This is an increase of 9.3% over normal days,” he said.

PLUS will also issue its travel time advisory for the North-South Expressway as a strategy to distribute traffic and help the public to plan their “Balik Kampung” and return to the Klang Valley during the holidays.


LED maker D&O Green Technologies poised for growth with global auto sales recovery

                PETALING JAYA: The recovery of global vehicle sales, which has led to the higher demand for LED adoption, has spurred more design-enquiries for D&O Green Technologies Bhd.

This and other factors have led PublicInvest Research to forecast double-digit earnings growth for the financial year 2021 (FY21).

It said that the strong recovery in global car sales in China, the European Union and the US was leading to higher LED adoption, increasing global market share and seeing stronger penetration into exterior LEDs.

The design-enquiries were also more than that in the first half of the year.

If the rollout of electric cars by D&O’s key customers is on track and well-received, the house does not rule out the possibility of stronger earnings growth for even FY22-FY23.

“We expect to see a strong finish to FY20 before heading to a more exciting growth phase over the next three years, ’’ it added.

The report said the decent third-quarter FY20 report card reflects the start of D&O’s growth momentum. It has maintained its “outperform’’ call with an unchanged target price of RM1.88 a share. This is based on 40 times the FY21 earnings per share.

D&O is one of the world’s leading automotive LED makers for module suppliers. China is D&O’s biggest sales contributor. It has more than 100 customers worldwide.


Team Maxxis wins Rainforest Challenge 2017

                PETALING JAYA: Team Maxxis 4x4 Malaysia has won the championship title of the Rainforest Challenge (RFC) 2017 which was held from recently in Pahang.

This victory marks a historical hat-trick win for Team Maxxis as they have previously won the challenge since 2015. This marks a significant milestone in the 21 year history of the Rainforest Challenge.

RFC 2017 attracted participants from over 36 nations including Russia, Hong Kong/China, Equador, Colombia, Indonesia, Thailand, Sri Lanka, Vietnam, Philippines and India.

The teams went through the most challenging terrains in the natural rainforest of Pahang which started at Balok, Kuantan on Nov 25 and ended at Sebarau, Pahang on Dec 5.

The vehicle number 119 was driven by Chang Chiew Shen, the champion driver for the last two years, and new co-driver August Rambil, emerged champions yet again by out-beating one of the most respected Russian teams., vehicle number 104 driven by Roman Kulbak and co-driver Pavel Kovalenko.

The major sponsors include Maxxis International Taiwan, Kian Hon Tyres Sdn Bhd (Maxxis Malaysia), Milwaukee Power Tools, Eurol Oil Lubricants, Bendix Brakes Malaysia, Tough Dog Malaysia, Coyote Beadlocks USA, Tirecare Malaysia and Tenna Apparel.


VW takes on Tesla with first ID.4 electric models in China

                SHANGHAI: Volkswagen AG launched two ID.4 electric sport-utility vehicle models in China on Tuesday, taking on Tesla Inc in the world's biggest auto market.

The ID.4 CROZZ model is being made by Volkswagen’s joint venture with FAW Group, while the ID.4 X is produced by a separate venture with SAIC Motor.

The models mark the start of a major push by Volkswagen into the electric vehicle market in China to take on the likes of Tesla and Nio Inc.

The German group did not disclose the price of the two models. But a presentation at the product launch said the starting price of the SUVs, which are larger than Tesla’s China-made Model 3 sedans, would be less than 250,000 yuan (RM156,000) after electric vehicle subsidies from the Chinese government.

The starting price for Model 3 sedans in China is currently 249,900 yuan (RM155,000), after subsidies.

The ID.4 models will have driving ranges of over 400 kilometers and offer over-the-air software updates, Volkswagen executives said at the event.

China chief Stephan Woellenstein said Volkswagen would roll out eight ID. family electric models in China by 2023.

Sales of electric, plug-in hybrid and hydrogen-powered vehicles in China are forecast to rise to 20% of new car sales by 2025 from just 5% now, the State Council said on Monday.

Around 1.1 million such vehicles are expected to be sold in China this year.

(Clip below in Chineses)


BMW teases iNEXT SUV concept and confirms 2018 reveal

                MUNICH: BMW has teased a new all-electric SUV from its i sub-brand that's due to go into production by 2021, the iNEXT.

The iNEXT is a concept that's another Vision Vehicle along the same lines as the Vision Dynamics concept we were presented with at last year's Frankfurt Motor Show. As well as publishing this rather unrevealing teaser image, BMW has also confirmed the vehicle itself will be unveiled in all its electrified glory later this year.

Up to now, the majority of all-electric cars we've been offered by major manufacturers have largely been reasonably compact hatchbacks and sedans.

While a number of mostly Chinese fledgling brands have been touting some larger, SUV-based models, there's not been much in the way of larger EVs for those who want or need a bigger vehicle and fancy going all-electric, but the iNEXT is expected to be of a similar size to the X5.

Even though we will be seeing the concept in the flesh in 2018, the final production model isn't going to be made available until 2021. This will be just one of 12 new fully electric models the Bavarian automaker is going to be introducing by 2025, and we'll get to see it not long after the BMW i4 sedan.

BMW's chairman of the board, Harald Krüger, announced the iNEXT during Thursday's annual general meeting as a new technological flagship of the BMW brand, which will incorporate all the advancements in road mobility made of recent years.

Despite no details of the proposed powertrain being revealed, other than it being all-electric of course, mentioning technological advancements in road mobility suggests that a heavy dose of autonomous tech will be included.

In a statement issued by BMW, Krüger said of the concept: "The iNEXT project is our building kit for the future. It will benefit the entire company and all our brands. For the first time, we are combining all key technologies for future mobility in one vehicle. The iNEXT is fully electric, fully connected and also offers highly automated driving."

Earlier this year, Alexander Kotouc, the head of BMW I Product Management, told Auto Express: "It's groundbreaking; the iNEXT will be more of the shape and size of an X5. It will have a completely different interior and be able to seat five people."


Audi has 7 world premieres in Geneva

                GENEVA: Alongside the Audi prologue Avant concept car, the Audi stand at Europe’s biggest auto show of 2015 will also exhibit four new Audi R8 models.

These are the Audi R8 V10, R8 V10 plus, R8 LMS and R8 e-tron.

The Audi Q7 e tron quattro marks the arrival of the first plug in hybrid in the Q model series.

Meanwhile, the Audi RS 3 Sportback sits proudly on the podium as the most powerful premium compact car in the world.

 Audi RS 3 Sportback.

As for the second generation R8 sports car, its V10 mid‑engine and a newly developed quattro drive ensure sporty driving performance, especially in the top-of-the-range version with 610hp: achieving 0 to 100km/h in just 3.2 seconds, and a top speed of 330km/h.

The second-generation R8 forms the basis for more models.

The latest evolutionary version of the electrically-powered R8 e‑tron supercar achieves torque of 920Nm, and sprints from a standstill to 100 km/h in 3.9 seconds.

Thanks to new battery cells, the range could be more than doubled compared to the first version of this technological wonder – it is now more than 450km.

The new Audi R8 LMS race car was developed based on the new GT3 regulations due to come into effect worldwide from 2016.

Despite massive performance increases, around 50 percent of its components are the same as the series-production car.

By presenting the Q7 e‑tron quattro, Audi introduces its second vehicle featuring a plug‑in hybrid drive system.

 Audi Q7 e-tron 3.0 TDI quattro.

The large SUV is the world’s first plug‑in hybrid car with a six-cylinder diesel engine and permanent all-wheel drive.

Powered by the lithium-ion battery, the large SUV covers up to 56km on electric power alone.

Together with the diesel engine, the car can cover a total distance of 1,410km.

According to the ECE standard for plug‑in hybrid vehicles, the Audi Q7 e‑tron quattro needs only 1.7 liters of diesel fuel per 100km.

The new RS 3 Sportback  – the world’s most powerful car in the premium compact class – serves up 367hp.

The 2.5 TFSI engine accelerates the five‑door model from 0 to 100km/h in 4.3 seconds and goes on to reach an optional top speed of 280km/h.

Offering immense pulling power, utmost responsiveness and its very own musical note, the engine’s brand‑typical throaty five‑cylinder sound reminds us of the very first quattro.

A seven‑speed S tronic, which shifts even faster than in the previous model, directs the power of the 2.5 TFSI to the quattro permanent all‑wheel drive system.

 Dr Ulrich Hackenberg (Audi AG management board member for Technical Development) with the prologue Avant.

The Audi prologue Avant – the new interpretation of the Avant philosophy – has a length of 5.11 meters and a width of 1.97 meters.

The five-door car with its pioneering body concept positions itself in the luxury class.

The Audi prologue Avant has the plug‑in hybrid drive from the Audi Q7 e‑tron quattro, which achieves even higher performance in the show car.

455hp of system power output by the 3.0 TDI engine and the electric motor in combination make the car sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.1 seconds.


Car designer renders Nissan 370Z successor

                LOS ANGELES: California-based designer Le Yang Bai has rendered his interpretation of the next-generation Nissan Fairlady, with styling cues inspired by the legendary 240Z.

Earlier this year, rumours had emerged about the next-generation Z sports car using retro styling designs from the 240Z.

The renderings on his blog are collated into what he dubs the "Nissan Fairlady 480Z".

The designer says it was a personal project based on redesigning one of his favourite Japanese classics, the Nissan Fairlady.


Honda Accord 2.4 VTI-L might be a keeper

                The 2.4-litre Honda Accord came into our hands many moons ago. And we clambered aboard and swiftly skipped out of the Klang Valley for a little R&R.

Honda Malaysia has a fondness to hand out “festive cars” and this time it was the Accord on the checklist for Chinese New Year. Oh, when was that? February, yes.

We rarely get test cars on festive seasons.

But when we do, it’s often to take it out of city limits even if it means jostling for road space with holiday crowds streaming out.

For some of us, who choose to stay back in the Klang Valley, it’s a wonderful chance to motor around sparsely trafficked roads for the first few days.

We chose to get out of KL for a change of scenery. It wasn’t haze season at the time, so that made the drive all the more pleasant – and healthier.

Port Dickson is a convenient weekend getaway if you want to stay overnight, but a day trip is always the other option.

Not wanting to rush it as it was a holiday stretch, we decided to stay two nights at a hotel there, which had a lovely view of the Straits of Malacca from the eighth floor, and a multitude of water chalets fanning out to sea.

And so off we went in the Accord for some family bonding time while seeking to indulge in the flavours of the kopitiam, restaurants and stalls across the resort town.

As the top-of-the-line model that Honda Malaysia offers, the Accord 2.4 VTI-L carries itself well.

On the outside, it’s a picture of modern elegance and is sizeable enough to qualify as a family or executive sedan.

There’s continuity in the lines as they flow from front to back and the Accord attempts to look sporty with flared front fenders and a short rump that nonetheless opens up to a generous stowage boot space.

The front offers an agreeable but somewhat conservative styling that’s bolstered by LED headlamps that swivels in corners.

A thick chrome bar links up the large wraparound LED combo tail lamps, adding a robust flourish to the rear.

Lending visual impact are 18-inch alloy wheels that are exclusive to the 2.4-litre variant. A 2.0-litre Accord, available in two trims, get 17-inchers instead.

However, where looks are concerned, the competition has gotten better than the Accord.

Check out the sportier-looking 2.5L Camry Hybrid or the Mazda6 for comparison. Honda is aiming to address this in the 2016 Accord, which is a facelift in the model’s midlife cycle.

Step inside and one will find the Accord to be premium and roomy, with ample headroom and elbow room to manoeuvre around.

Leather seats and lashings of pseudo wood panelling are to be found across the dash, on the centre console and door armrests to evoke a luxury ambience.

A central dual colour screen infotainment system anchors the attractive dash and should find its share of owners who adore it though we do think the dash could do with fewer buttons.

Parking brake is foot-operated so that’s a good move to free up centre console space.

The driver gets an eight-way power seat while the front passenger has it four-way to adjust for optimal comfort.

Dual-zone air-conditioning is standard and cold air is pumped to rear passengers through separate vents.

Other worthy mod-cons to note are the multi-angle rear-view camera and Honda LaneWatch to minimise blind spots on the left side, with a camera mounted below the side mirror.

It should prove useful to less skilful drivers. And no, there’s no camera for the driver’s side as you are expected to rely on your senses to avoid mishaps.

The Accord had already clocked nearly 30,000km before we took it, so it was well and truly run in.

On the move, the car remains a quiet and relaxing drive. This Accord comes with noise cancelling technology that works in tandem with cabin insulation to keep the interior hush.

Under the bonnet lies a 2.4-litre “Earth Dream” engine that emphasises efficiency over performance.

Nevertheless, the 173hp and 225Nm of torque are respectable numbers that are manifested in power being delivered smoothly and progressively – as expected of such a car.

Drive is relayed to the front axle via a 5-speed automatic transmission that rows through the ratios without hesitation.

The 65-litre tank was easily good for 500km, but real-world figures would vary depending on driving style and typical traffic conditions.

If you want to be miserly about it, turning the ECON mode on should help with extending mileage.

One would think 18-inch wheels would ride hard but the pliant suspension helps offset any stiffness and is competent enough to keep road harshness and vibrations at bay.

High-speed stability is commendable and the car feels planted in the straights and when rounding bends.

A long distance commute or trip would be quite soothing under the circumstances, backed by a substantial range of safety equipment such as six airbags, stability control, hill start assist, ABS, electronic brake force distribution, emergency stop signal, active cornering lights and blindspot detection.

The exhaust note turns noticeably sporty above 3,000rpm to quicken the heartbeat, complemented by the availability of a sport mode and paddle shifters.

The steering is light and quick, but muted in feel. The engine doesn’t have that sumptuous grunt at the low end and needs to be revved harder to go up a stretch of incline.

But no worries, it eventually gets there with little fluster.

Maybe it was just us, but we found the sat-nav required too much fiddling around to use; the mapping info also did not have sufficient details on some main roads and POIs (Point of Interests).

Imagine running on a blank landscape as we cruised the South Klang Valley Expressway.
Well, hopefully the maps would have been upgraded since.

Make no mistake. The 2.4-litre Accord is a very likeable car and is certainly worth the extra penny if you are changing up from lesser automobiles.

But it’s also playing in a competitive field where it cannot afford to be complacent or risk being undercut by piranha-like rivals who are catching up.

Note that the locally assembled Accord is due for a price increase come 2016, no thanks to a depreciated ringgit.

Going forward, styling changes are expected of the Accord and upgrading the kit list (think more forward gears and feel-safe paraphernalia among others) would only enhance its status as a flagship with youthful vigour.


First drive of new Proton Saga to Ipoh

                It’s an early morning for the local motoring fraternity, with more than 30 of us converging at Proton’s Centre of Excellence to evaluate the latest iteration of the Saga - the local carmaker’s model that started the ball rolling.

The Saga might look different, but it still uses the same platform as its predecessor.

Although the wheel arches seem to drown out the wheels, the new sheet metal does help to get this model back up to date thanks to its new curves and subtle creases - with a definitive one on its sides to give it some sporty appeal.

A quick glance at it from all angles may have some taking a longer time to admire this car and its new found looks.

The rear-end now takes on a rounded fast-back design that has helped improve the car’s overall aero-efficiency.

There’s minimal overhangs on the Saga, especially the boot section that could create the suspicion that space is limited for the sake of better knee room for rear-seated passengers or vice versa - this would be incorrect.

Instead, the boot accommodates up to 420 litres of space and rear leg-room is quite adequate, which is particularly satisfying to have for those long journeys.

Nonetheless, the external styling looks modern, albeit with a touch of “European” influence.

Opening the doors are next to effortless and the cabin looks very much inviting with the seats looking well-bolstered, but they were more towards the firmer side and didn’t have enough thigh support while the driver sits in a rather upright position for with a commanding all-round view.

Although the seat is height adjustable, it’s actually more of an angle adjustment for the base with little influence, but for for those with a height of 175cm might find the meeting point between the roof and windshield seem oddly close with a few inches of headroom left.

This means that at certain times, the rear-view mirror can turn into a slight visual obstruction that’ll require some head ducking in order to solve, just to get a better view. And since the steering wheel is only tilt-adjustable, reclining back will only put it further out of arm’s-reach.

Furthermore, the same steering wheel from the Exora / Prevé / Suprima S is being used, and has that tendency to accidentally change the Clarion entertainment unit’s mode with the ball of the palm.

From the driver’s vantage point, the screws that hold the door latches were clearly seen. It wasn’t a bother since the car is priced from RM36,800 to RM45,800 (on-the-road with GST and insurance), but they did seem odd after being screwed into a square frame instead of a round one.

It has to be noted that the arm rests at the front could have been moved a full foot (12 inches) forward to make the window controls more ergonomically accessible.

The dashboard controls have a simplistic layout no doubt and although they are intuitive, the row of buttons need to have a better tactile and reassuring feel of robustness.

It would also make more sense if they were placed above the entertainment unit for better ease of reach and visibility - since activating the front and rear fogs do not appear on the instrument cluster.

After all, such buttons which includes front fogs (Executive and Premium only), central locking, rear window defogger, hazard lights, rear fogs, parking sensors and electronic stability control (Premium only) are more of a priority.

Under the hood, there’s a familiar 1.3-litre (1,332cc) engine producing 94hp at 5,750rpm and 120Nm of torque at 4,000rpm to pull its 1,035 to 1,075kg (depending on variant) of kerb heft with its front wheels.

The continuously variable transmission (CVT) felt much more livelier to use with a good amount of response from it over its predecessor and has the ability to put the power down, but can it’s wheels handle whats coming? Oh yes in deed.

The Saga may use a torsion beam suspension at the rear, but it’s still able to track around highspeed corners surprisingly well - especially for the Premium variant, staying planted, with the rear-end showing much loyalty to the front for a very confidence-inspiring drive.

But, the element of float at the back starts to rear its ugly head with just a touch of it in the Executive as it rolls on 14-inch alloys with 185/60 Silverstone Kruizer1 NS800 tyres before becoming quite apparent in the Standard using 13-inch steel wheels with 175/70 Silverstone Synergy M3 tyres to water down the driving enthusiasm.

Overall, the steering now feels lighter, with a certain sharpness to it for a responsive and sporty feel, while the the suspension can and will deal with undulations and uneven road surfaces very well to provide a good amount of road surface feedback to the driver.

Not to mention, noise, vibration and harshness have been significantly quelled above legal speeds, allowing occupants to have a decent conversation even if they were to be travelling at a top speed of 180kph.

Even if one were to be travelling at such speeds, which there will be, the car will need a decent amount of braking power as well as an antilock braking system (ABS) to help avoid any surprises while on the road.

The front ventilated discs and rear drum brakes do have a decent bite to them, but there are very few people who are able to react in a manner that do not lock up the brakes - even race car drivers with their endless amount of driving experience face the same problem (watch F1 racing for instance).

To reiterate, the Saga is a budget car to help first-time owners get rolling and if it does have a spartan-ish interior, Proton does deserve some credit in their efforts to make it comfortable, capacious and convenient in varying degrees thanks to a more sophisticated feel and looks of the “budget” materials (plastic) as well as the inclusion of more premium technologies such as Bluetooth connectivity and a reverse camera (Premium only).

What most impressed was the way it conducts itself when at slow or high speeds. Surprisingly, it’s actually a confidence inspiring budget car to drive and if some of the issues mentioned earlier fade away because of this mere fact, then this might be where the puck stops for some of us.

READ MORE:New Proton Saga is priced from RM36,800 to RM45,800Bezza Advance versus Saga Premium — which to buy?


New entry-level Porsche Taycan 4S launched

                STUTTGART: Porsche has launched the third version of its all-electric sports saloon with the Taycan 4S.

The Taycan 4S is the new entry-level model in the series, after the Turbo S and the Turbo, and available with two battery sizes - up to 390 kW (530 PS) and range of up to 407km, or 420 kW (571 PS) and range of up to 463km.

In both variants, the Taycan 4S accelerates from a standing start to 100 km/h in 4.0 seconds.

The Taycan 4S gets 19-inch Aero wheels and red-painted brake callipers, and LED headlights including Porsche Dynamic Light System Plus (PDLS Plus).

As standard, the Taycan 4S comes with a partial leather interior as well as front comfort seats with eight-way electrical adjustment.

With the Taycan, Porsche offers an entirely leather-free interior for the first time.

Interiors made from innovative recycled materials underscore the sustainable concept of the electric sports car.

Porsche uses a centrally networked control system for the Taycan chassis.

The integrated Porsche 4D Chassis Control analyses and synchronises all chassis systems in real time.

As standard, the Taycan 4S features adaptive air suspension with three-chamber technology including electronic damper control PASM (Porsche Active Suspension Management).

The Taycan 4S has six-piston fixed-calliper brakes on the front axle with internally vented cast iron brake discs. Four-piston brakes are used on the rear axle.


VW ID.4: Technical dive

WOLFSBURG: The ID.4 was rolled out in a digital world premiere on Wednesday, making it Volkswagen’s first fully electrically driven SUV generating zero local emissions and produced with a carbon-neutral balance.

Volkswagen said the ID.4 is an all-round talent that can be driven in a sporty, yet also easy and comfortable way.

The battery stores up to 77 kWh of energy (net) and enables ranges of up to 520km (WLTP). It is installed below the passenger compartment for a low centre of gravity.

The electric drive motor, positioned at the rear axle, generates 150 kW (204 PS) – enough to accelerate from 0 to 100kph in 8.5 seconds and deliver a top speed of 160kph. Thanks to the rear-wheel drive’s strong grip and its 21cm of ground clearance, the E-SUV also performs well in gentle off-road terrain.

READ MORE: VW aims to turn legions of SUV buyers into electric converts with  ID.4

At launch, the ID.4 is solely a rear-wheel-drive. A dual motor, all-wheel-drive variant making 302hp/225kW will start selling, come 2021.

For Europe, the ID.4 is available with three electric motor options using either a 52 kWh battery pack or 77 kWh battery. Two variants using the 52 kWh battery have motors producing either 146hp/109kW or 168hp/125kW. The top variant using the 77 kWh battery gets a more powerful motor producing 201hp/150kW for a maximum range of 520km. It sprints from 0-100kph in 8.5s.

For North America, VW will start out with one variant using a 82 kWh battery pack that powers an electric motor that produces 201hp/150kW to offer a driving range of 402km. Note that the motor offers the same output as the European top variant.

The ID.4’s exterior has athletic proportions and high aerodynamics with a drag coefficient of 0.28.

The basic version already features headlights that are almost completely equipped with light-emitting diodes (LEDs) while its tail light clusters have been fully equipped with this technology.

As the top-of-the-range version, interactive IQ.Light LED matrix headlights are even more progressive: they welcome drivers with swivelling lens modules and generate an intelligently controlled main beam.

These headlights have been paired with the new 3D LED tail light clusters. Their tail light is particularly homogeneous and lights up in an intensive red. The ID.4 is fitted with large wheels of up to 21 inches.

The ID.4 with a length of 4.58 metres uses Volkswagen’s modular electric drive matrix (MEB) architecture. It divides the space for occupants and technology in favour of passengers. The room available in the vehicle interior is at the level of conventional SUVs in the next category up.

Colours and materials are contemporary while also being homely. Depending on the rear seat backrest’s position, the luggage compartment boasts a capacity from 543 to 1,575 litres. The equipment range of the ID.4 includes an electrically driven boot lid, roof railing and a towing bracket.

The E-SUV’s operating concept does not depend on physical buttons and switches. It is based on two displays – one of which diagonally measures up to 12 inches and features touch functionality – as well as “Hello ID.” natural voice control.

The new ID.Light – a narrow light strip under the windscreen – intuitively supports drivers. An augmented reality head-up display is optionally available to blend a host of displays with reality – for instance, navigation arrows telling drivers to turn off are projected onto the road surface in exactly the right lane.

The Discover Pro navigation system brings We Connect Start online services on board. IQ.Drive assist systems make driving an even more relaxed experience and this particularly applies to Travel Assist. Software and hardware in the ID.4 have been designed as part of a completely new architecture, making it possible for customers to download updates to the car after the purchase.


All-new Isuzu D-Max officially unveiled

                PETALING JAYA: Isuzu Malaysia has officially launched its all-new third-generation D-Max 4X4 pick-up truck line-up that is more upscale, smart and refined while maintaining its well-known fuel efficiency and rugged off-road performance.

At the same time, Isuzu Malaysia also kicked off the D-Max Breaking Boundaries test drive campaign that runs until May 31 at authorised Isuzu showrooms where visitors can get to know the new model up close, as well as get exclusive Isuzu merchandise giveaways and a chance to win cash prizes.

Nakamura (left) and Suzuki with the top-of-the-line D-Max X-Terrain variant.

The new line-up, which has a 5-star Asean NCAP safety rating, comes with 4X4 drivetrain in single or double cab bodystyles, six-speed manual or automatic transmission and 1.9-litre or 3.0-litre turbodiesel Blue Power engines.

On the road-without insurance prices for private registration in Peninsular Malaysia are:

- D-Max 1.9L Single Cab (MT) RM88,599.20,
- D-Max 3.0L Single Cab (MT) RM95,538.40,
- D-Max 1.9L Double Cab Standard (MT) RM99,599.20,
- D-Max 1.9L Double Cab Standard (AT) RM106,999.20,
- D-Max 1.9L Double Cab Premium (AT) RM121,549.20,
- D-Max 3.0L Double Cab Premium (AT) RM128,038.40, and
- D-Max 3.0L Double Cab X-Terrain RM141,938.40

All D-Max variants enjoy a five-year or 150,000km warranty while the X-Terrain enjoys a class-leading seven-year unlimited mileage warranty.

The 3.0-litre (4JJ3-TCX) engine has been improved and now delivers 13PS more at 190PS and 70Nm more torque at 450Nm.

The engine also reaches its flat torque curve earlier at 1,600rpm compared with 1,800rpm previously.

Among the upgrades were high pressure common rail fuel injection system, electronically controlled high efficiency variable geometry turbo, and new piston and combustion chamber design.

Meanwhile, the 1.9-litre (RZ4E-TC) engine still produces the same 150PS and 350Nm of torque, gets a new turbocharger for better responsiveness and improved top-end performance.

The new generation D-Max employs a new ladder frame that offers improved stiffness and strength to ensure better handling and durability.

Its new suspension configuration and a longer wheelbase that allows the engine bulk to be located further behind the front wheels, the result is a more dynamic handling and comfortable ride.

The flagship 3.0L X-Terrain variant comes with exclusive features including remote engine start, rear differential lock, wet wiper system, brown leather seats with eight-way electronic adjustment including lumbar support, a 9-inch infotainment touchscreen panel that incorporates Android Auto and wireless Apple Carplay and an Advanced Driver Assist Systems (ADAS).

The ADAS has Forward Collision Warning (FCW), Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB), Lane Departure Warning (LDW), Turn Assist, Pedal Misapplication Mitigation, Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with stop & go function, Automatic High Beams (AHB), Blind Spot Monitor (BSM), Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA), Manual Speed Limiter (MSL) and Multi-Collision Brake that applies the brakes should any of the seven airbags be deployed.

The X-Terrain comes exclusively in Valencia Orange or Sapphire Blue while other variants are available in Silky White Pearl, Mercury Silver, Onyx Black and Splash White.

Isuzu Malaysia CEO Koji Nakamura said Isuzu engineers spent years developing and over four million kilometres in testing the new model to achieve the best Isuzu D-Max they have ever created.

"They then added the soft touches and high-tech features to satisfy the discerning owners who desire comfort and sophistication in their modern day vehicles," he said.

Isuzu Malaysia Light Commercial Vehicle Division COO Masayuki Suzuki said the all-new D-Max has found many new fans in all the markets it had been launched.

"It appears to be the case here too in Malaysia where we have garnered over 1,000 bookings even before its official launch today.

"With the strong interest in the all-new D-Max, I believe that our target of 6,400 units this year will be achievable,” he said.

For details, logon to the D-Max website at pickuptruck.isuzu.net.my/


Automakers invest heavily in electric vehicles despite still-low demand

                NEW YORK: Demand for electric vehicles remains low in the US market, but industry executives at the New York auto show this week said they are pushing ahead with billions of dollars in investments even while preaching patience.

Officials said their companies are charging ahead with a flurry of new electric vehicle (EV) models, citing rising regulatory requirements globally.

Last year, only about 2 percent of US auto sales comprised full electric or plug-electric hybrid models, with Tesla Inc accounting for more than a third of those sales. The United States ranks seventh in EV sales as a percentage of overall sales, according to the International Energy Agency.

Michelle Krebs, analyst at online marketplace Autotrader, expects EV sales to remain relatively modest until charging infrastructure, prices and battery performance improve.

“It’s going to be a pretty long runway,” Krebs said, adding EV sales may first rise dramatically in government and corporate fleets.

In New York, industry executives said they face hurdles to selling EVs - persistently low fuel prices, lack of consumer education, lower residual values, higher upfront costs because of battery packs and consumer concerns about the availability of charging infrastructure.

Nevertheless, automakers are showing sportier, more creative EVs than the original plug-in models that were mostly small cars.

Hyundai Motor Co’s luxury Genesis unit at the show showed an EV concept car, called the Mint, capable of an estimated 200 miles per full charge and fast recharging, while its Kia affiliate unveiled a concept EV crossover with butterfly wing doors called the HabaNiro.

Daimler AG showed a new Mercedes-Benz SUV called the EQC Edition 1886 that will go on sale next year ”and then we have a whole lot of other electrics coming over the next couple of years,” said Dietmar Exler, who heads Mercedes-Benz USA.

Jaguar Land Rover began selling its electric Jaguar I-PACE, in late 2018 in the United States and is selling only about 200 a month. ”It will be a long, long time until we see mass adoption,” said Joe Eberhardt, who heads the company’s North American unit.

The US$70,000 I-Pace was named World Car of the Year this week at the New York show.

There are nearly 300 million gasoline-powered vehicles on US roads, Eberhardt said. ”Nobody is going to drive them into the ocean.”

He noted the economic advantages of EVs are slight at current gasoline prices. He suggested an I-PACE owner would on average save about US$500 a year by using electricity rather than using fuel, but they will also save on maintenance costs.

Germany’s Volkswagen AG and its Audi unit are introducing a half-dozen new electric vehicles in the coming two years and have aggressive volume targets, aiming to have 20 to 30 percent of its sales as EVs by 2025.

As part of VW’s US$25 billion ”dieselgate” settlement, the German automaker agreed to add at least three additional electric vehicles, including an SUV, in California by 2020.

Volkswagen US chief Scott Keogh said the company, which showed off a concept ID Buggy EV, is investing in EVs not as a “guilt play” to address its prior diesel issues but to make money.

Keogh says there will be a flurry of launches in the next three years but it will still be a few years beyond that. ”I think 2025 is where you’re really going to see - is it taking hold?” Keogh said.

Audi said this week it plans to start delivering its new electric E-Tron SUV to US consumers next month. It has just delivered test vehicles to its 300 dealers, said Mark Del Rosso, president of Audi of America, noting that many people who reserved an E-Tron are new to the Audi brand.


First production-ready Battista prepared for world debut

                TORINO: Automobili Pininfarina is taking the most significant step yet in delivering its pioneering pure-electric Battista hyper GT, with the first production-spec example making its debut on Californian roads as part of a series of exciting experiences organised for its clients during the Aug 12-15 Monterey Car Week.

The finished Battista features distinctive black exposed signature carbon fibre bodywork and black gloss precision polished Impulso rims.

Inside, the first production-spec model to emerge from the Cambiano atelier facility in Italy, features black sustainable luxury leather with Iconica Blu contrast stitching and quilted Pilota seats in Iconica Blu Alcantara. The seats feature Pilota Carbon Components finished in black exposed signature carbon coordinating with the striking exterior.

The 1,900hp electric hyper GT is the fastest and most powerful Italian sports car ever made.

Bespoke chassis settings will ensure the Battista hyper GT delivers a unique dynamic experience that can be tailored to suit every journey and the pure-electric model will accelerate from 0-100kph in sub-two seconds – faster than a current Formula 1 car.

No more than 150 Battista hyper GTs will be created for clients worldwide. North America and Europe will account for the majority of sales, followed by the Middle East and Asia.

The exclusive hyper GT is priced from US$2.2m and is available to order through a global network of specialist retailers. The Battista battery is available with up to 10 years of manufacturer warranty.

Monterey Car Week will also see the US premiere of the exclusive , itself a tribute to the life and work of design icon Battista "Pinin" Farina. Limited to just five vehicles worldwide, it represents the pinnacle of Automobili Pininfarina’s Pura design philosophy, with aerodynamic enhancements and tailored detailing providing a uniquely dynamic personality.

 Battista Anniversario.

As part of an extensive programme prepared for Automobili Pininfarina’s clients in North America, the exclusive hyper GT will be joined at the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance by a fleet of iconic Pininfarina-designed vehicles to celebrate more than 90 years of design excellence.

“The premiere of the first production-specification Battista in the US marks the beginning of another significant chapter in the Automobili Pininfarina story. We look forward to our clients in the US experiencing the immense dynamic performance and personalised luxury of Battista for the first time,” said Automobili Pininfarina CEO Per Svantesson.


Car-mad Italy experiencing a bicycle boom

                ROME: The scene looks a bit like the Giro d'Italia bike race except that the many cyclists going past the Colosseum in Rome aren't professional athletes but rather ordinary Romans.

It's not just the Italian capital that's currently experiencing a two-wheeler boom. With the end of the pandemic lockdown, it looks like something is changing in the land of Ferrari, Fiat and Vespa.

"I have never experienced such a change," says Alessandro Tursi, president of Italy's FIAB bicycle association.

The architect and urban planner is surprised. He's been campaigning for a green transport policy in Rome and elsewhere for years with only moderate success.

His efforts were always stymied by laws, bureaucracy, and the drivers' lobby. When the coronavirus arrived in Italy, all that changed.

"In April and May, in the intense Covid-19 crisis, it was suddenly different and easy," he says.

The Italian government has issued special decrees to get the economy going after the emergency stop imposed during the lockdown, including bike-friendly changes to traffic rules.

In addition, Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte has promised urban dwellers a subsidy of up to 60 per cent of the price of a bike or electric scooter, up to a maximum of €500 (RM2,417).

One reason that people have taken to bicycles is that social isolation rules meant that buses and trains can take fewer passengers. People are also uncomfortable queuing at train stations and bus stops.

Before the Covid-19 crisis, many Italian cities experienced constant traffic jams. More cyclists can ease that problem and the bike subsidy should also boost the economy. After all, Italy is at the forefront of bike production in Europe.

Cycling on Italy's usually traffic-snarled streets also became a more pleasant experience during lockdown as there were fewer cars. Then when bicycle stores re-opened in May they were swamped by eager buyers.

The bicycle industry association Ancma expects a sales increase of 60 per cent after the lockdown and are predicting that the annual increase could be up to 25 per cent.

Bicycle sellers in Milan told the Repubblica newspaper that people there are buying bicycle who in the past would never have considered using one.

The city, often smog-shrouded in winter, has announced that it will have created around 25km of additional cycle paths by September. Further routes are to follow by the end of the year.

In Rome, mayor Virginia Raggi has sent out construction teams to create cycle lanes and establish road markings. The capital wants to quickly create 150km of cycle lanes.

Previously, a bicycle in Italy was considered more of a sports equipment than a means of transport and when it comes to road safety the Mediterranean country is below average for the European Union.

Bike friendliness and the quality of the bike trail network decreases from north to south and the depth of potholes increases, cycling lobbyist Tursi says.

In the centre of the capital, the ancient cobblestone streets are a challenge for cyclists even without the cars, motorcycles, and buses that brazenly compete with them for road space.

Alessandro Malagesi, an organiser of cyclist protests, was sceptical about whether his driving compatriots would ever voluntarily share the streets with more bicycle. But that looks to be changing.

"If you don't start with the changes, nothing will ever happen. The sales boom is a good sign," he says.

Nada Franco, who serves one customer after another at a bicycle shop on the Via del Cardello near the Colosseum, says: "Let's hope this development really lasts."


Triumph announces new Street Triples

The new Street Triple RS (left) and S.
PETALING JAYA: The new Street Triple is here and is available in three variants, priced from RM53,000 to RM67,000.

They are the Street Triple S, the Street Triple RS and the Street Triple R Low Ride Height (LRH), which offers a special seat that is mounted 30mm lower than the standard seat.

As the entry variant, the Street Triple S is priced at RM52,900. It is available in Diablo Red and Phantom Black colours.

The Street Triple R (LRH) is priced at RM59,900.00, and is available in Crystal White, Phantom Black and Matt Silver Ice.

The top-of- the-range Street Triple RS is RM66,900.00 and comes in Matt Silver Ice and Phantom Black (Metallic). All prices are inclusive of GST.

 The 5-inch colour TFT instrument display on the R and RS versions.

First introduced in 2007, the Street Triple has been hailed as one of the best naked bikes for the city and for the track with more than 50,000 units sold worldwide. The latest generation Street Triple has made further improvements.

The new range of Street Triple variants in Malaysia is powered by a bigger but yet lighter engine than the old powerplant. The new engine is based on the 675cc engine that made the Triumph Daytona such a revered motorcycle. It features 80 new engine parts that include an increased bore and stroke, new crank, pistons, con-rods and balancer shaft. There are also new nikasil-plated aluminium barrels that replace the old iron liners in the 675cc engine.

The Daytona-derived 765cc triple-cylinder engine in the new Street Triple features different levels of tune in the S, R and RS.

 The Fast Bikes team with the Street Triple are (from left) sales manager Arie Raphael, chief operating officer Datuk Razak al-Malique and aftersales head Mavrikos Panagiotis.

For the Street Triple S, the engine produces 111bhp at 11,250rpm, and 73Nm of torque at 9,100rpm. In the R, the engine produces 116bhp at 12,000rpm and 77Nm of torque at 9,400rpm. In the RS, the same liquid-cooled, 12-valve, DOHC engine produces 121bhp at 11,700rpm and 77Nm of torque at 10,800rpm.

All three variants feature a multipoint sequential electronic fuel injection with SAI and electronic throttle control. The exhaust system on all the bikes is the same with a stainless steel three into one exhaust system with a low single sided stainless steel silencer. Power is
channelled through a wet, multi-plate clutch with slip and assist function. The RS is the only variant that comes with a quick shifter as standard.

Power is managed by an intelligent ECU that offers up to five different riding modes. The Street Triple S gets two riding modes - rain and road - with ABS and Triumph Traction Control, while the Street Triple RS gets five modes - rain, road, sport, track and one more rider programmable mode with customizable electronic interference. The R variant features all the riding modes found in the RS, except the track mode. All variants come with ABS and switchable traction control as standard.

The design of the new naked motorcycle is now more aggressive.

The headlights now feature Daytime Running Lights (DRLs) for the R and RS variants, which increase visibility for other road users. The DRLs are also 28 times brighter than the previous generation model which featured a bulb sidelight.

The overall design of the Street Triple has also been updated with all new bodywork like the new inner and outer radiator cowls, new front and rear mudguards and new rear body panels. The RS is distinguished from the rest of the pack with its colour-coded belly pan, colour-coded pillion seat cowl with interchangeable pillion seat as standard, and a lower chain guard.

 Street Triple RS in action.

The Street Triple R and RS now feature an all-new intuitive five-way joystick control to make it more ergonomic and easier to select riding modes while riding.

The instrument cluster has been updated. The S variant gets an updated LCD instrument screen that displays the fuel gauge, odometer and the Trip Meter. The R and RS variants on the other hand get an all-new five-inch TFT display that is said to be one of the most advanced in the motorcycling industry.

The TFT display offers four different themes that change the layout of information pertaining to the riding modes. The display is also adjustable so that riders of all heights get a clear and precise view of the screen.

 Street Triple S in Diablo Red. Street Triple RS (also below).


Lazada Malaysia working with Miros to expand use of child seats

The Lazada Car Seat Assurance icon shown here is a sign that the car seats meet stringent UN safety requirements.
KUALA LUMPUR: Lazada Malaysia has signed an agreement with the Malaysian Institute of Road Safety Research (Miros) to raise awareness on the importance of child seats in reducing road fatalities.

As part of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), Lazada Malaysia has launched its car seat assurance programme, which vets such products on its online mall, LazMall, to ensure they meet the United Nations’ ECE R44/04 and ECE R129 specifications. This comes ahead of the enforcement of the use of child seats from Jan 1.

At present, over 40 product models from six local and foreign brands on LazMall carry the Lazada Car Seat Assurance icon, with prices ranging from RM100 to RM1,599. The child seats that have so far been cleared by Lazada Malaysia come from the following brands: Joie, Koopers, Sweet Cherry, Quinton, Sweet Heart Paris and Chicco.

 Lee and Dr Siti Zaharah posing with the MoU. Standing behind are (from left) Shahrul, Kamarudin and Suret.

Approved car seats can be identified via the Lazada Car Seat Assurance icon. Lazada said it guarantees that each car seat bearing this icon are sold by sellers who have submitted to Lazada copies of UNR44 or UNR129 certificates (which are strict and comprehensive sets of child car seat safety regulations by the UN) as well as crash test reports. This product documentation has also been submitted to Miros for further validation that they are safe for use.

The MoU was signed by Lazada Malaysia chief business officer Kevin Lee and Miros director-general Dr Siti Zaharah Ishak. The signing ceremony was witnessed by Deputy Minister of Transport Datuk Haji Kamarudin Jaffar, Miros chairman Datuk Suret Singh and Lazada Malaysia public policy and government affairs vice-president Shahrul Shaari.

READ MORE:
Used child car seats proposal for parents who can't afford new
Govt to use soft approach first in child seat enforcement


BMW M3 CS could come with manual transmission and rear-wheel drive

                MUNICH: The upcoming BMW M3 CS (Competition Sport) is believed will be made available with manual transmission and rear-wheel drive.

According to BMWblog, the ultimate version of the G80 M3 sports sedan is expected to be lighter than the current M3 Competition and could ditch the automatic transmission and all-wheel drive system to achieve the effect.

At the moment, the Competition editions are just a step below the CS offerings in pecking order of performance and "purer" driving levels.

The current M3 Competition is already packing 510hp and 650Nm of torque from its 3.0-litre in-line six-cylinder turbo engine for 0-100kph sprint time of 3.9 seconds.

The M3 Competition is available in six-speed manual or eight-speed automatic transmission and rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive system depending on the market.


VW in Msia launches new Shopee store

                KUALA LUMPUR: Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM) continues to drive its online brand presence with its new official store on Shopee, the leading online shopping platform in Southeast Asia.

Just in time with the coming 7.7 Mid-Year Sale, Volkswagen is offering exclusive deals for cars booked via Shopee from June 23 till July 7.

Customers need only pay RM199 to be entitled to rewards ranging from RM4,279 up to RM14,819, depending on VW models chosen.

This includes exclusive online deals and savings, free home delivery within a 20km radius from your preferred dealership, free deep sanitisation package worth up to RM150, and a free Volkswagen LEGO camper worth RM499.

Seven lucky customers who purchase a Volkswagen during this period will also stand a chance to win RM700 Shopee voucher.

VPCM managing director Erik Winter said the company's move to Shopee is a way for the brand to optimise its services on digital applications while offering the best deals and convenience when it comes to buying a Volkswagen.

“We have achieved great success with our digital and e-commerce initiatives and being present on Shopee was the next natural step for us. This partnership with Shopee leverages on their digital expertise and platform to connect with our customers whilst offering them irresistible deals in conjunction with Shopee’s 7.7 Mid-Year Sale,” he said.

Shopee regional managing director Ian Ho said the compoany was pleased to be a part of this partnership with one of the biggest motoring brands in the world.

"It comes just at the right time following the recent announcement by the Government on the 50% sales tax exemption on imported and full exemption on locally assembled cars.

"This piece of good news paired together with the attractive deals by Volkswagen on its store on Shopee is not to be missed," he said.

To book your Volkswagen on Shopee store, visit shopee.com.my/volkswagen.os.


Toyota plans to expand production, shrink cost of hydrogen fuel cell vehicles

                TOYOTA CITY: Toyota is doubling down on its investment in hydrogen fuel cell vehicles, designing lower-cost, mass-market passenger cars and SUVs and pushing the technology into buses and trucks to build economies of scale.

As Toyota cranks up improvements for the next generation of its Mirai hydrogen fuel cell vehicle (FCV), expected in the early 2020s, it is hoping it can prove wrong rival automakers and industry experts who have mostly dismissed such plans as commercially unviable.

The maker of the Prius, the world’s first mass-produced “eco-friendly” gasoline-hybrid car in the 1990s, says it can popularise FCVs in part by making them cheaper.

“We’re going to shift from limited production to mass production, reduce the amount of expensive materials like platinum used in FCV components, and make the system more compact and powerful,” Yoshikazu Tanaka, chief engineer of the Mirai, said in an interview.

It is planning a phased introduction of other FCV models, including a range of SUVs, pick-up trucks, and commercial trucks beginning around 2025, a source with knowledge of the automaker’s plans said.

The automaker declined to comment on specific future product plans. But it has developed FCV prototypes of small delivery vehicles and large transport trucks based on models already on the road, as Tesla Inc (TSLA.O) develops a battery-operated commercial semi-truck from the ground up.

“We’re going to use as many parts from existing passenger cars and other models as possible in fuel cell trucks,” said Ikuo Ota, manager of new business planning for fuel cell projects at Toyota. “Otherwise, we won’t see the benefits of mass production.”

The company is also betting on improved performance. Toyota wants to push the driving range of the next Mirai to 700-750km from around 500km, and to hit 1,000km by 2025, a separate source said.

Driven by the belief that hydrogen will become a key source of clean energy in the next 100 years, Toyota has been developing FCVs since the early 1990s.

Hydrogen is the most abundant element in the universe and stores more energy than a battery of equivalent weight.

The Mirai was the world’s first production FCV when it was launched in 2014. But its high cost, around US$60,000 before government incentives, and lack of refueling infrastructure have limited its appeal. Fewer than 6,000 have been sold globally.

LMC Automotive forecasts FCVs to make up only 0.2 percent of global passenger car sales in 2027, compared with 11.7 percent for battery EVs. The International Energy Agency predicts fewer FCVs than battery-powered and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles through 2040.

Many automakers, including Nissan Motor Co and Tesla, see battery-powered cars as a better, zero-emission solution to gasoline engines. Only a handful, including Honda Motor Co and Hyundai Motor Co produce FCVs.

But people familiar with Toyota’s plans said the automaker thinks demand will perk up as more countries, including China, warm to fuel cell technology. The company also sees FCVs as a hedge against a scarcity of key EV battery materials such as cobalt.

For now, Mirais are assembled by hand at a plant in Toyota City, where 13 technicians push partially constructed units into assembly bays for detailed inspections. This process yields just 6.5 cars a day, a sliver of Toyota’s average domestic daily production of about 13,400 vehicles.

Strategic Analysis Inc, which has analyzed costs of FCVs including the Mirai, estimates that it costs Toyota about US$11,000 to produce each of its fuel cell stacks, by far the vehicles’ most expensive part.

Toyota has been building up production capacity to change that, as it expects global FCV sales climb to 30,000 units annually after 2020 from about 3,000. Strategic Analysis estimates that would allow Toyota to reduce costs to about US$8,000 per stack.

It has already begun to use parts developed for the Mirai in other models, such as the fuel cell stack, which is used in Kenworth freight trucks being tested in California, the Sora FC bus it released in Japan in March and the delivery trucks it will test with Seven-Eleven stores in Japan next year.

“It will be difficult for Toyota to lower FCV production costs if it only produces the Mirai,” the first source told Reuters on condition of anonymity as he was not authorized to speak publicly about the issue.

“By using the FCV system in larger models, it is looking to lower costs by mass-producing and using common parts across vehicle classes,” he added.

The Mirai’s high production costs are largely due to expensive materials including platinum, titanium and carbon fiber used in the fuel cell and hydrogen storage systems.

Engineers have been reducing that by improving the platinum catalyst, a key component in the 370 layered cells in the fuel cell stack, which facilitates the reaction between hydrogen and oxygen that produces electricity.

“We’ve been able to decrease the platinum loading by 10 percent to 20 percent and deliver the same performance,” said Eri Ichikawa, a fuel cell engineer at Cataler Corp, a Toyota subsidiary that specializes in catalytic converters.

Strategic Analysis says using that much less of the precious metal would save up to US$300 per fuel cell stack, based on an estimate that Toyota now uses about 30 grams of platinum per unit.

“By consistently focusing on these issues, we will be able to progressively lower the cost of FCVs in the future,” Tanaka said.


IGP: 800 roadblocks in place nationwide from June 1-14

                KUALA LUMPUR: Mobile roadblocks will be used in addition to permanent roadblocks to discourage travel during the full lockdown which starts nationwide on Tuesday.

Inspector-General of Police Datuk Seri Acryl Sani Abdullah Sani said there will be about 800 roadblocks in place nationwide.

“Around two-thirds will be permanent roadblocks while the rest will be mobile ones.

"The district police will also identify areas and lanes used for travel and close them if needed.

“We will also increase spot checks outside the city due to the rate of compliance there being lower, ” he told a press conference today.

He reiterated that unlike the first MCO, no curfew will be enforced.

“However, since all businesses must close by 8pm, people shouldn’t have a reason to be out. Our objective is to discourage unimportant movement, ” he said.

The IGP noted that traffic jams at roadblocks will be unavoidable.

“I advise the public to prepare their utility bills to prove their home residence to make things smoother during checks.

“All travel permission will also be scrutinised and we will do a more thorough check at roadblocks, ” he said.

He added that manpower on the ground will also be increased, with 15,000 more personnel being deployed from other agencies to assist the police.


Renault brews nostalgia for Father’s Day

                LONDON: Today is Father’s Day. To mark the occasion, Renault in UK has resurrected its most-loved campaign, "Papa, Nicole", to launch the all-new Mégane E-Tech 100% Electric.

For anyone above the age of 35, the mere mention of "Papa? Nicole?" conjours up more than a fond association with Renault.

It reminds them of the French countryside in the ‘90s; the signature ‘Johnny and Mary’ theme music; combined with the saga of a young French girl, her father and their adventures in a small hatchback.

For some, the romantic connection went further. Between 1991 and 1998 the name Nicole rose up the charts of baby names, to be 36th most popular name for new-born girls, with over 7,000 Nicoles born between 1996-2000 (ONS). It is estimated that baby girls were named Nicole after the female protagonist of the ad campaign.

Now, the latest reinvention of the "Papa, Nicole" story is told through real life father-daughter stories that explore issues faced by modern day Papas and Nicoles. In a unique twist, this new ad created by Publicis•Poke features real families that named their daughters Nicole after the original ad.

Renault put the call out to the 6,000 Nicoles in the UK, and their Papas, asking them to share their stories – creating a new chapter in the ‘Papa, Nicole’ story, that’s relevant in 2022.

Inspired by the iconic campaign, the new take on "Papa, Nicole" aims to tell the stories of three modern-day Nicoles who were named after the campaign: a singer, a fashion and disability awareness content creator and a fashion photographer.

The ad explores their independence and empowerment - and the changing role of "Papas" in that relationship by sharing their intimate, emotive and compelling real-life stories.

The campaign aims to speak to two audiences at totally different life-stages in one breath: the 40-60-year-olds who lived through and fondly remember the ‘90s "Papa, Nicole" campaign, alongside 20-39-year-olds, the modern-day Nicole – by celebrating their differences (and similarities) through real life stories.

The campaign will run on social, display, print and out-of-home platforms until the end of July.

Featuring within the advert, is the Mégane E-Tech Electric, the first of a new generation of electric vehicles launched by Renault in 2022.

All models are powered by a 60kWh battery for a WLTP-certified range of up to 450km on a single charge, with AC/DC rapid charging up to 130kW as standard, delivering up to 299km of driving range (WLTP) in 30 minutes.

Customers can choose from three trims – Equilibre, Techno, and a range-topping Launch Edition – with each equipped with a 12.3-inch driver information display, 9-inch multimedia display, and Android Automotive OS with integrated Google services.

The Mégane E-Tech Electric is priced in UK from £35,995 (RM194,000) on the road.


Electric-truck maker Lordstown's CEO, CFO resign

                PITTSBURGH: Lordstown Motors Corp on Monday announced the sudden departure of its chief executive and finance head, just days after the electric truck maker warned that it may not have enough money to stay in business over the next year.

The resignations of founder and chief executive Steve Burns and chief financial officer Julio Rodriguez come as the company's board reported conclusions from an internal investigation into claims made by short-seller Hindenburg. Burns is Lordstown's largest shareholder with a stake of more than 26%, according to Refinitiv data.

Lordstown acknowledged it had overstated the quality of pre-orders for the company's electric trucks, but rejected as false Hindenburg's accusations it had overstated the viability of its technology and misled investors about production plans.

Goldman Sachs, which advised the blank-check company that merged with Lordstown last fall and helped put together the deal's financing, declined to comment.

When it announced its deal to go public through a reverse merger last August, Lordstown said it had pre-orders for its Endurance pickup truck worth about US$1.4 billion.

After Hindenburg accused the company of misleading investors on the pre-orders, Lordstown said they were non-binding and has since said it has no binding orders.

The company named lead independent director, Angela Strand, as executive chairman to oversee the firm's transition until the appointment of a permanent CEO. She will take part in a media appearance Lordstown had scheduled for Burns and other executives today.

"We remain committed to delivering on our production and commercialisation objectives," Strand said in a statement. Lordstown did not make Strand available for an interview.

Strand, 52, is managing director of an advisory firm specialising in technology and business strategy, and has worked with fleets and fleet management companies, the types of customers Lordstown is aiming to win after Endurance production is scheduled to start in September.

RBC Capital Markets analyst Joseph Spak said Burns was not the right fit for Lordstown as it attempts to build production and a change in strategy could occur with new leaders, putting at risk the company's advantage of being the first with an electric pickup on the market.

Lordstown disclosed customer deliveries won't begin until the first quarter of 2022, putting it just ahead of the spring launch of Ford Motor Co's electric F-150 Lightning.

Becky Roof, who had previously served as interim CFO at numerous companies including Eastman Kodak and Hudson's Bay Co, was named interim finance chief of Lordstown, effective immediately.

Lordstown also disclosed in a regulatory filing it has hired a unit of AlixPartners, an advisory firm known for helping companies restructure operations.

Since the going-concern warning last week and a free fall in its share price, the company has tried to allay some worries by saying it was in talks with multiple parties to raise funds.

"It was untenable for the company to secure necessary new capital with a management team widely seen as potentially not leading the company into the next era of its development," Morgan Stanley analyst Adam Jonas said in a research note.

Lordstown and fellow EV maker Nikola, both of which went public via acquisitions by SPACS, have become a target of short-seller Hindenburg. Both companies saw their CEOs subsequently resign.

In March, Hindenburg disclosed it had taken a short position in Lordstown shares, saying the company had misled consumers and investors.

Subsequently, the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) had asked the company for information related to its SPAC merger and pre-orders of its vehicles.

Hindenburg Research founder Nathan Anderson said the news was not a surprise.

"Today's disclosure largely verifies the concerns we raised," he said in an interview.

"The top two executives don't resign when allegations are meritless."


Allianz General ready for fast flood claims settlement ahead of monsoons

                KUALA LUMPUR: As Malaysia and the region heads into the monsoon season, a topical response comes from Allianz General Insurance Company (Malaysia) Bhd  that will hook public attention.

Allianz General is touting its ability to settle flood claims fast if you and your cars have been affected.

During this time, Allianz General customers can call 1-800-22-5542 for towing assistance (motor comprehensive policyholders) or to expedite claims for those with home or commercial insurance.

“Our fast claims initiative has one goal – to reach out to our customers as fast as we can and provide them with quick financial relief," said Allianz General claims chief Damian Williams.

"It is about being there for our customers during the worst of times. So, for this special initiative, we are extending our towing assistance to all motor comprehensive policyholders without flood cover extensions.”

As part of the special initiative, the company has all 250 Allianz Road Rangers tow trucks nationwide on standby to facilitate towing services and is ready to mobilise it flood claims assets including seven Allianz-branded 4x4 pick-up trucks, a claims caravan, and a team of nationwide adjusters to accelerate investigations to ensure a swift claims settlement.

The meteorological department expects this year's monsoon season to run from November until March 2023.


Google creates wallet app for car keys, credit cards and tickets

                SAN FRANCISCO: Alphabet Inc.’s Google will let consumers store and use car keys, credit cards and event tickets in a new Wallet app that it’s separating from its longtime Pay app.

Consumers in the US and Singapore will have access to both apps, with Pay used for financial management and transferring money to friends or family, while in 39 other markets the Wallet app will replace Pay, the Mountain View, California-based company said at its annual Google I/O developer conference on Wednesday.

“As things have digitised so quickly, it became very clear that you’re moving beyond just the payments context, and so we need to give users a dedicated home for that,” Bill Ready, Google’s president of commerce, said in an interview. “Mobile drivers’ licences, car keys, those are well beyond just payment use cases.”

Google debuted its payment app in 2015 and revamped it in late 2020 as a hub for consumers to track expenses and hunt for discounts.

The company said at the time the app had 150 million monthly active users globally. But Google faces tough competition from Apple Inc. as well as its own partners on Android devices, such as Samsung Electronics Co.

With Ready, who joined the technology giant in 2020, Google has been shaking up its approach to payments. In October, for instance, the company shelved a yearslong plan to debut a digital checking and savings service for the Pay app that it had already lined up nearly a dozen banking partners for.

Google Pay has gained some traction in India. There, users will be able to use the Pay app they’re familiar with, the company said in a statement.

Ready, who spent eight years at PayPal Holdings Inc. and some of its subsidiaries, said Google isn’t charging users for the changes to its apps. Instead, he said, the aim is to boost use of the company’s myriad apps and services.

“We don’t need to monetize on the payments,” Ready said. “We’re not charging for this, but we believe it has the potential to be quite beneficial to the advancement of the free and open web, and we see that comes back and pays dividends for the ecosystem.”


VW says its new car software will be 'easy to update' and affordable

                BERLIN: Volkswagen admits that its long-planned new software system, set to unite the group's various brands under one easy-to-use platform, will cost the manufacturer a lot of effort and cause stress with some brands, but will be worth it from the consumer's viewpoint.

"The platform needs to be updated easily, frequently and with little customer interaction," Alf Pollex, head of the development alliance for the planned central car IT system, said, explaining the software's high level of requirements.

With younger car buyers looking for more software features that can be rolled out like smartphone updates and purchased or leased as needed, Volkswagen has been working to develop its answer to Tesla's software platform with "over the air" updates.

Volkswagen says the software will keep drivers "up-to-date with the newest features, applications and functions-on-demand." However the high requirements of ease of use and uncomplicated technical delivery are among the reasons why the project needs time.

Volkswagen is also behind on its original plan, and Audi and Porsche are continuing to work on autonomous driving outside of the planned software system for the time being.

Version 2.0 of the software should be ready by the middle of this decade and, according to group CEO Herbert Diess, it will then "tie various developments together."

However, for now the company has continued to temporarily keep different versions of the software separate, which will initially bring additional financial burdens.

"I am convinced that the software will be ready for the launch of Trinity," Diess said, referring to VW's plans for an affordable limousine aiming to bring electric mobility to the masses with more than 700 km of range and turbo charging, set for launch in 2026.

According to Pollex, Volkswagen's new software requires a complex change in IT and electronics - which has direct consequences for the updating of functions, for example.

In older, decentralised systems, "you used to make individual updates to individual control units - the update capability of the entire system was therefore extremely challenging."

With more and more networking, automation and infotainment creeping into cars, it's now all the more important to centralise computer, controller and software architectures, Pollex says. This will allow updates to be made in uniform blocks, rather than sporadically.

Only a fully developed unified system in version 2.0 will also ensure that all types of cars can be equipped with it at competitive prices. "We can thus also offer the system in entry-level vehicles in a way that it remains affordable for them," said Pollex.

"So this architecture sets the basis for how things will go in the long term with software and electronics for premium as well as mass-produced vehicles and for future model generations - hence our decision to want to develop this ourselves as a group."


Ducati announces three new Scrambler variants for INTERMOT 2018.

                COLOGNE: Ducati has revved up three new versions of its Scrambler in the form of Full Throttle, Café Racer and Desert Sled for this year's International Motorcycle, Scooter and E-Bike Fair (INTERMOT 2018).

The fair will take place from Oct 3 to 7 in Cologne, Germany, and will see the new Full Throttle take its cue from the flat track Scrambler ridden by Californian racer Frankie Garcia in the 2018 American Super Hooligan Championship.

The two-tone black-yellow white-striped tank, all-new rear end with dedicated seat, white-rimmed yellow number holders, low-slung tapered handlebar, stubby front mudguard and dual-silencer exhaust will add to the distinctiveness of the Scrambler Full Throttle.

The Café Racer, with its renewed livery of Silver Ice Matt graphics with blue frame, draws its inspiration from the legendary Ducati 125GP Desmo, which is why it wears new 17-inch spoked wheels, aluminium bar-end mirrors, dual tailpipe, nose fairing, stubby mudguard and lateral number holders (number 54 in honour of Bruno Spiaggiari) to give the bike that '60s race look - although a modern radial front brake pump sits up front.

As for the Desert Sled, it gets a red frame, new seat with colour-coordinated stitching, spoked wheels with black rims, Off Road Riding Mode that allows for ABS disengagement, adjustable Kayaba suspension, headlight mesh guard, exclusively designed high mudguards, engine skid pan and a dedicated riding position.

The aluminium used on the beefier side panels help contrast against the steel of the teardrop tank and the glass of the headlight, while the black-painted engine and brushed cylinder head fins have been added for that two-toned look.

The bikes receive, as standard, an all-new headlight with LED Daytime Running Light, auto-off LED indicators, more ergonomic and simplified switchgears for the LCD menu that now shows selected gear and fuel level information.

They also come equipped with Ducati Multimedia System that lets riders listen to playlists, answer incoming calls or chat with the passenger on the intercom via Bluetooth.

For safety, the Scrambler-trio have also been equipped with a Cornering ABS system from Bosch and riders can now appreciate the new softer-feel hydraulic clutch control.


UK's first driverless bus service launched

                EDINBURGH: Marking the launch of the UK’s first autonomous bus service and one of the first of its kind in the world, a driverless bus has taken passengers across Scotland's Forth Road Bridge.

The autonomous service, which the UK government believes involves the world’s first full-size, self-driving public buses, is shuttling passengers between a car park outside Edinburgh and a train station in the city.

Scotland’s transport minister Kevin Stewart was one of the first to strap in for the short journey as the Stagecoach vehicles were tested on the service between Ferry Toll near Inverkeithing, Fife and Edinburgh Park.

The service will operate on a trial basis until 2025 and each bus will have two members of staff – a safety driver who can take control of the vehicle, and another to sell tickets and provide customer service.

A fleet of five Alexander Dennis Enviro200AV vehicles will cover a 22-km route, in mixed traffic, at up to 80kph across the bridge.

As the driver lifted his hands from the wheel for the first time, Stewart assured the rest of the passengers he felt “very safe”.

"I felt very safe on the bus, there has been a huge amount of testing. There were staff on board. I hope the people of Fife and Edinburgh come to see for themselves just how safe all of this is," he told the PA news agency.

“We need people to use public transport more, whether that be buses or trains. We’re doing all that we can to encourage people on to public transport. This adds to the mix and we have a way to go in terms of that change," he said.

"We all have a part to play in carbon reduction and using buses and trains as a way to do that."

The buses have completed one million testing miles so far, and the vehicles have attracted the attention of the world’s media. The service will start taking paying customers across the Firth of Forth on Monday. — PA Media


ABB PixelPaint wins award for ability to do two-tone spraying in single pass

                ZURICH: ABB’s PixelPaint robotic non-overspray technology for the automotive industry has won this year’s Innovation and Entrepreneurship in Robotics & Automation (IERA) Award for Outstanding Achievements in Commercialising Innovative Robot and Automation Technology.

Launched in 2020, PixelPaint uses inkjet head technology to directly apply high resolution two-tone or individualised designs to a car body in a single pass, enabling manufacturers to easily meet the rising demand for customised paint jobs while eliminating wasteful overspray.

Traditionally, applying a two-tone or customised design onto bodywork has required a vehicle to be put through a painting line twice, once for the first layer and then, after the areas have been masked, again for the second colour. Typically, masking the bodywork has needed around 10 to 20 operators per shift, with two operators also needed to de-mask it after the second colour had been applied.

With only 70 to 80 percent of the paint being applied to the bodywork surface when sprayed, wastage levels have been significant, increasing costs through recycling and having to buy additional paint.

PixelPaint overcomes these issues, providing a faster, highly accurate and more sustainable solution for customized painting. The PixelPaint cell comprises a high DPI inkjet head, two IRB 5500 paint robots, dosing control package, and RobotStudio® programming software for two tone and decorative painting applications.

The ability to combine improved efficiency, flexibility and environmental performance was a key factor in the jury’s decision to bestow the award to PixelPaint.


Tolled highways report completed, takeover decision hopefully in weeks, says minister

                PUTRAJAYA: A study on the government’s proposed takeover of tolled highways from concessionaires has been completed, and hopefully a decision will be made in a few weeks says Works Minister Baru Bian.

He said the study, prepared by certified audit consultants on the toll industry, had been presented to the Cabinet.

“So now we are only waiting for the Cabinet to decide,” he said after a site visit to a housing development project by the Construction Industry Development Board of Malaysia (CIDB) near Precinct 12 in Putrajaya yesterday.

He said there was no exact time-frame for a decision because feedback needed to be gathered from other ministries.

“We just have to wait because we need to circulate to all the ministries for their review and feedback.

“However, I hope it will be within the next few weeks and not months,” he said.

Baru had earlier said any takeover of tolled highway concessionaires would only be approved by the Cabinet after detailed studies were completed.

His latest statement came following Finance Minister Lim Guan Eng’s announcement that the government had made a RM6.2bil bid to take over four tolled highways in the Klang Valley.


Tokyo Motor Show 2019: Nissan IMk concept

                YOKOHAMA (Japan): Nissan unveiled its IMk concept car that promises chic design, cutting-edge technologies and powerful acceleration for its “ultimate urban commuter.”

The purely electric vehicle (EV) is touted as a "luxury small car" which points towards Nissan's new design language or its Intelligent Mobility which is the brand’s vision for changing how vehicles are powered, driven and connected to society.

At 3,434mm-long, 1,512mm-wide and 1,644mm tall, this EV of a compact city car will provide drivers with nimble handling characteristics and connectivity.

It is also equipped with the latest ProPILOT advanced driver assistance technologies and seamless connectivity features.

Externally, the IMk is all about Timeless Japanese Futurism where the exterior is characterized by flowing lines with carefully applied Japanese motifs and dipped in an Akagane paint scheme – reflecting a reddish copper colour.

A close look reveals additional elements of “Japanese DNA” throughout the IMk with its V-motion signature “shield” and combination taillights with a trellised, woodwork-type impression.

Inside, the cabin is called "a new type of room” - much like a cafe or lounge with a bench-style seat complete with a dimpled texture, while the dashboard and sections of the doors are upholstered in light tonal materials to "cozy-up" the atmosphere.

Akagane-coloured accents are found along the instrument panel, doors and steering wheel which adds brightness to the interior.

Wooden slats are used to interlock the lower door section just like the Japanese wood joinery technique of "kigumi" as dark coffee-coloured floor carpeting with woven strands of metallic fiber lay the floor.

Other than the start button and shifter, the IMk’s thin dashboard is void of physical controls.

Powering up the IMk reveals cabin comfort controls and settings with soft glowing icons within the Akagane trim.

Important driving information, such as vehicle speed and navigation directions, appear in “midair” by way of a bezel-less prism display.

Customized information is communicated to the driver via holographic displays and an interior accent lighting mimics the prism display’s colour scheme (depending on the displayed content).

When using the touch-sensitive surface, swiping actions can be utilised when viewing a map – a touch of whimsy is displayed in the form of
a flock of birds flying across it and if more attention is spared, one might even notice a faint bird pattern across the prism.

In terms of technology, the IMk comes with the latest of driver-assist technologies.

This includes a smartphone-enabled ProPILOT Remote Park feature with valet parking feature which can search for a parking space automatically after alighting from the vehicle. Once ready to head out, a simple tap of a button brings the car to you.

Also included is the more advanced ProPILOT 2.0, which helps make driving safer, more pleasant and enjoyable for drivers by combining navigated highway driving with hands-off single-lane driving capabilities.

Just as popular cafes and lounges offer free Wi-Fi to keep customers connected, the IMk can keep its occupants constantly and seamlessly plugged in with the latest connectivity technology.

A driver can link to the car with a smartphone to authenticate their identity, automatically apply personal settings – such as seat position, interior lighting and climate controls – and plan their commute.

Before leaving on a trip, the IMk informs the driver of the best departure time via smartphone, taking into consideration variables such as traffic congestion.

After arriving and valet parking itself, the vehicle can seamlessly integrate with a home energy system and use spare battery capacity to balance home energy needs, using Nissan Energy Share (Vehicle-to-Home).

While on the trip, occupants can enjoy Nissan’s Invisible-to-Visible (I2V) technology by merging information from sensors outside and inside the vehicle with data from the cloud.

I2V technology can track the vehicle's immediate surroundings and anticipate what's ahead, even showing what's behind a building or around the corner.

Guidance is given in an interactive, human-like way, including via an avatar that appears inside the car.


Fuel prices on up-trend

                PETALING JAYA: The price of fuel seems to be on an uptrend with an across-the-board increase.

The price of RON95 will increase by 1 sen to RM2.21 from RM2.20, while RON97 will rise by 4 sen to RM2.52 from RM2.48 in the previous week.

As for diesel, it takes a large 9 sen jump to RM2.14 from RM2.05 per litre previously.

The prices will take effect from 12.01am onwards from Sept 14 to 20.

The weekly fuel pricing mechanism came into effect in April this year, and the prices of petrol and diesel had been placed on a managed monthly float system since Dec 1, 2014 following the removal of fuel subsidies.

Fuel Prices From Sept 14 to 20
RON95 - RM2.21 (+1 sen)
RON97 - RM2.52 (+4 sen)
Diesel - RM2.14 (+9 sen)


BMW unveils refreshed 5 Series

                MUNICH: BMW has revealed its latest 5 Series executive ride with new styling cues and added features.

The line-up of "das neu 5er" with the internal code G30 includes a sedan and touring (wagon) body styles with either a plug-in hybrid, petrol or diesel powertrain that sends power to a rear or xDrive all-wheel-drive system via a standard eight-speed Steptronic transmission.

With the exception of the 530e and M550i, all other petrol variants are fitted with a new 48-volt mild-hybrid technology that's touted to have a faster-responding starter-generator and greater efficiency while providing 11hp of electric motor "boost" for the engine.

The four and inline six-cylinder petrol engines have been further optimised to help them meet the Euro 6d emissions standard.

All that's needed now is to figure out what sort of power is deemed favourable, which ultimately decides the displacement and number of cylinders, with choices starting with the 520i that's powered by a 2.0-litre (1,998cc) turbocharged in-line four-cylinder engine.

Here, power has been rated at 184hp from 5,000 to 6,500rpm and 290Nm of torque from 1,350 to 4,250rpm for the rear wheels which allow the entry-level G30 to accelerate from 0 to 100kph in 7.9 (Touring - 8.3) seconds before reaching a top speed of 235kph (Touring - 225kph).

Moving up to the 530i (rear or xDrive for Sedan and Touring) also means climbing the performance ladder with the same engine in the 520i - only now it pumps out 252hp from 5,200 to 6,500rpm and 350Nm of torque from 1,450 to 4,800rpm.

This allows the 530i to sprint from 0 to 100kph in 6.4 seconds (xDrive - 6.3) while the Touring does it in 6.7 (xDrive - 6.6) seconds before being electronically limited to a top speed of 250kph - a standard practice by the Munich-based carmaker for all its models.

As for the 540i - also available as a Sedan (Rear or xDrive) or Touring (xDrive only), it uses a higher displacing 3.0-litre (2,998cc) inline six-cylinder engine instead that punches out 333hp from 5,500 to 6,250rpm and 450Nm of torque for a 0 to 100kh sprint time of 5.2 (xDrive - 4.9) seconds.

For those who desire greater potency, there's also the M550i xDrive Sedan that's powered by a 4.4-litre (4,395cc) V8 producing a whopping 530hp from 5,500rpm to 6,000rpm and 750Nm of torque from 1,800 to 4,600rpm which allows it to rocket from 0 to 100kph in 3.8 seconds.

But, for those who are more eco-conscious, there's the plug-in hybrid 530e Sedan (available from November onwards) and Touring body styles with the options of having it in rear or xDrive configurations.

Power comes from a 1,998cc turbocharged engine that puts out 184hp from 5,000 to 6,000rpm and 300Nm of torque from 4,000rpm while being supplemented by a 109hp / 265Nm electric motor that can run solo or add to the engine's output - bringing the combined system output to 292hp and 420Nm.

Regardless of whether it sends power to the rear wheels or xDrive system, it sprints from 0 to 100kph in 5.9 seconds with a top speed of 225kph (140kph - electric) and has an all-electric range of 58 to 62km.

If that isn't enough, then perhaps the 545e Sedan (also available from November onwards) might be more enticing with a larger displacing 3.0-litre (2,998cc) inline-six mated to a synchronous electric motor that sends power to the xDrive all-wheel-drive system.

The engine is capable of delivering 286hp from 5,000 to 6,000rpm while maximum torque of 450Nm is achieved from 1,500 to 3,500rpm.

The electric motor is able to output 109hp and 265Nm for a maximum combined system output of 394hp along with 600Nm of torque - giving it the ability to catapult from 0 to 100kph in 4.7 seconds while having 54 to 57km of pure electric range and an electric top speed of up to 140kph.

In terms of new external goodies for the G30, the M Sport package is now seen fitted as standard along with an enlarged kidney grille, redesigned LED headlights, newly-designed rear bumper and light clusters as well as trapezoidal exhaust tips.

Furthermore, the updated G30 now boasts of newly added colours to be coated with along with additional BMW Individual paint finishes, M Sport package with new and muscular design features and model-specific accents for the flagship BMW M550i xDrive Sedan.

Even newly designed wheels have been added that range from 18 to 20-inches along with a lightweight and more aerodynamic 20-inch option.

Inside, the cabin's standard features now include a 10.25-inch free-standing display (or optional 12.3-inch) Control Display,  new interior trim strips, automatic climate controls with extended features and a sports leather steering wheel with newly arranged multifunction buttons.

Also, the controls on the centre console are now in High-gloss Black and the seats now make use of Sensatec perforated synthetic leather while having been further optimised for comfort even if the new M multifunction seats have been opted for.

For added convenience and sophistication, the BMW Operating System 7 has been fitted and plays host to new applications and connectivity along with added personalisation features while sporting a newly optimised user interface with new graphics in the control-display.

Furthermore, the G30 can be fitted with the optional Parking Assistant with additional reversing assistant function as well as a new BMW Drive Recorder that's part of the optional Parking Assistant Plus which can record up to 40 seconds of video footage from points around the vehicle

To get around, the G30 can now rely on a cloud-based BMW Maps navigation system that offers a more precise route calculation and estimated times of arrival. as well as provide real-time traffic data updates at short intervals and allows the driver to enter any word when selecting a destination.

Standard smartphone integration now also features Android Auto in addition to Apple CarPlay and also includes WiFi connectivity with information appearing in the Control Display, instrument cluster and optional Head-Up Display.

For updates to the system, the G30 now features Remote Software Upgrade where vehicle-specific content and updates such as function extensions for driver assistance systems can be integrated into the car over the air as well as vehicle software and digital services.

As for safety, the G30 has been equipped with new driver assistance systems along with extended functions such as Lane Departure Warning that's part of the optional Driving Assistant – now also with lane return function.

The new optional Driving Assistant Professional now includes Active Navigation with the help of the Lane Change Assistant together with the automatic formation of emergency-lane and junction warning (now with city braking) functions.

3D visualisation of the surrounding area shows traffic situations and possible interventions by the driver assistance systems in the instrument cluster.

BMW 530e (G30) xDrive SedanBMW 530i xDrive Touring BMW 540i (G30) xDrive SedanBMW M550i xDrive M Performance partsBMW Control Display


Don't buy a new car, hang on to your old one, BMW now telling owners

                LONDON: It's not often that a car boss tells customers to keep an older car for longer and not bother about buying a new one, but that is just what BMW's sustainability chief is suggesting.

Monika Dernai, who heads the sustainability team at BMW, made the proposal when speaking to an audience in London, according to the UK car mag Auto Express.

She said the automotive industry could reduce waste by encouraging people to hang on to their existing cars and retrofitting them with upgrades to keep them fresh instead of constantly buying new models.

"We really need to think about prolonging the life of cars; not having a used car market where you sell cars to each other, but maybe take a car and extend its life-span," said Dernai.

"The idea could be that you could freshen up the interior."

The proposal is little short of revolutionary for an industry geared towards selling new cars — even to people who do not really need them, since their existing vehicles are still in good condition.

Sustainability is a topic for more and more car buyers, but so far the issue has revolved mainly around the use of interior materials where production is less harmful to the environment.

Meanwhile, the owners of cars in Germany and the UK aged over 30 years say it is more sustainable to keep them longer rather than change every few years. They also deny that older models contribute heavily to greenhouse gas emissions.

Older engines for instance cannot compete with modern motors on emissions, but the average classic car produces only 563kg of CO2 emissions a year, according to research by Britain's Centre for Economics and Business Research. The low emissions are down to the fact that classic cars are usually driven less often.

BMW's Dernai was contributing to a podium discussion in London on the topic of creating a circular economy in late November. The idea here is that society should reuse and recycle everything as much as possible and produce minimum waste.

The manager's suggestion comes amid controversy over the carbon footprint of new electric cars, with some critics pointing out that their production uses more energy than they are likely to save.

Modern cars are greener than older ones and they also consume less fuel but a number of factors have pushed up the price of used cars prompting many owners to keep their transport for longer.

Soaring fuel prices, the high purchasing cost of vehicles, a rise in quick ride-hailing services, and greater climate-conscious sentiments especially among millennials (those born between 1981 and 1996), have seen people shying away from buying a new vehicle.