Bentley Airline Seat Specification adds more luxury to Bentayga EWB

                CREWE (UK): Bentley has unveiled the new Airline Seat Specification of the Bentayga Extended Wheel Base (EWB) that is said to be the world’s first to feature auto climate sensing system and advanced postural adjustment technology.

With up to 22 ways of adjustments, the rear seats provide the finest rear accommodation since the Mulsanne.

After a rear seat passenger selects their desired temperature from seven different levels, the auto climate seat senses passenger temperature and surface humidity with an accuracy of 0.1°C every 25 milliseconds.

The system can then determine whether to apply heat, ventilation or both simultaneously to keep the passenger at optimum thermal wellbeing.

Meanwhile, the postural adjustment system, featuring 12 silent motors, automatically makes micro adjustments to the passenger’s seating position and pressure points, using an algorithm developed in collaboration with a chiropractor.

The motors work together with three intelligent pneumatic valve electronic control units, and the combination of motors and valves is managed by a master Seat Motion & Wellbeing ECU.

The system can apply 177 individual pressure changes across six fully independent pressure zones over a three-hour period improving comfort and minimising fatigue throughout a journey.

By subtly changing the shape of the surfaces of the seat over time, no one area of the body endures pressure fatigue for an extended period – meaning the occupant is always comfortable.

With initial customer uptake of 50% the Airline Seat Specification, the Bentayga EWB demonstrates a new benchmark in wellbeing features, providing the most comfortable experience possible for those travelling on extraordinary journeys.

The Bentley Airline Seat Specification also adds further cushion and backrest bolster adjustment, cushion extension, electric headrest height adjustment and a deployable footrest to the back of the front passenger seat.

The rear seat passenger on this side of the car can also move the front passenger seat forwards via a “VIP mode”.


Clooney’s sis-in-law faces drink-driving charge in Singapore

                SINGAPORE: The sister-in-law of Hollywood movie star George Clooney is facing a drink-driving charge in Singapore.

Tala Alamuddin Le Tallec (pic), 47, was allegedly caught with 95mcg of alcohol in 100ml of breath while driving along Holland Road at around 2.30am on May 14 this year.

This is almost triple the prescribed limit of 35mcg of alcohol in 100ml of breath.

Le Tallec, a Singapore permanent resident, is the sister of Amal Clooney, a human rights lawyer.

Le Tallec was also in the district court yesterday on charges of using a car without a Singapore Class 3 driving licence, driving without insurance and taking the vehicle without the owner’s consent.

The identity of the vehicle’s owner was not revealed in court.

According to documents submitted in court, Le Tallec was previously convicted of drink driving in the republic on April 15, 2013.

Repeat offenders can be jailed for up to a year and fined between US$3,000 and US$10,000 (RM12,580 and RM41,900), while the maximum jail time for first-time offenders is six months.

First-time offenders may also face a fine of between US$1, 000 and US$5,000 (RM4,200 and RM20,970).

Earlier media reports stated that Le Tallec had worked as an events planner before launching a fashion line called Totally Tala.

She lived in New York City before marrying a businessman based in Singapore, but The Daily Mail reported in 2017 that she later remarried, to an Italian businessman.

The mother-of-two regularly travels around the world, often posting pictures on her Instagram page.Le Tallec, who is represented by lawyer Shashi Nathan, is now out on bail of US$5,000.

She will be back in court on Sept 19. — The Straits Times/Asia News Network


Tesla will remove more vehicle sensors amid Autopilot scrutiny

                SAN FRANCISCO: Tesla Inc said on Tuesday it will remove ultrasonic sensors from its vehicles starting this month, as it moves ahead with using only cameras in its safety and driver-assistant features.

Tesla vehicles now have 12 ultrasonic sensors on the front and rear bumpers, and short-range sound sensors are mainly used in parking applications and to detect close objects.

"It'll save them a few dollars. I mean those things are pretty cheap," Guidehouse Insights analyst Sam Abuelsamid said, referring to ultrasonic sensors. "It'll also save them some chips."

Tesla last year started dropping radar sensors amid a chip shortage.

Chief executive Elon Musk has said Tesla can achieve full autonomy with cameras only, but he has missed his targets to roll out self-driving taxis which require no drivers.

The automaker faces growing regulatory, legal and public scrutiny over its Autopilot system following crashes.

Tesla said it will remove ultrasonic sensors from the Model 3 and Model Y globally over the next few months, followed by the Model S and Model X in 2023.

The transition will temporarily limit automated parking features, but not affect crash safety ratings, Tesla noted.

"It remains to be seen whether this will be 'two steps forward and one step backward' or the other way around," said Raj Rajkumar, a professor of electrical and computer engineering at Carnegie Mellon University.

While self-driving tech firms and automakers use multiple sensors like expensive lidars, Tesla relies only on cameras and artificial intelligence to help a vehicle recognize the environment.

"The question is how well the cameras can see nearby the car, which sometimes can be limited," said Professor Philip Koopman of Carnegie Mellon University.

A widely followed Tesla researcher known only as "Green" on Twitter tweeted on Tuesday that ultrasonic sensors are also used in Autopilot as a "fail-safe" feature for changing lanes.

"Impact on safety of autopilot is likely small. Now impact of safety of manual parking on the other hand might be big," he said, adding that parking chimes help people avoid hitting walls and other obstacles.


Tesla Model S regains top safety rating after software update, says Consumer Reports

                SAN FRANCISCO: Tesla Inc's Model S sedan regained Consumer Reports' top safety rating, the magazine said on July 25, after the automaker updated the emergency braking system on the vehicle.

Tesla provided an over-the-air update in July to its software on the Model S to include automatic emergency braking (AEB) at highway speeds, Consumer Reports said.

In April, the magazine, which provides an annual rating of vehicles sold in the United States, lowered its rating on the Model S, noting that Tesla's last software update for the emergency braking system was not adequate.

The previous update activated AEB on vehicles on speeds up to 28 mph (45kph), far lower than the 90 mph (144.8kph) limit for the prior AEB system included on older vehicles.

Consumer Reports said at the time the sedan lost its top ranking in the ultra-luxury car category for failing to install the feature that it had promised to owners as standard equipment.

The magazine awards extra points to the overall score to vehicles that provide automatic braking as a standard feature across all trims.


UMW Toyota Motor advocates environmental sustainability

                PETALING JAYA: The 2017 Toyota Eco Youth (TEY) programme was launched today marking another year of environmental activities with the overriding theme to reduce carbon footprint by students from selected school in Malaysia.

This would be done through inculcating skills amongst student to care for the environment and to lessen the impact of climate change.

Since its inception in 2001, UMW Toyota Motor had spent more than RM6mil for the programme which enabled students to develop both technical and soft skills in finding solutions to environment protection.

As part of its corporate social responsibility program, the company engages in educating the youth in secondary schools by enabling them to become ambassadors in advocating environmental sustainability for better quality of life.

Looking at the current environment scenario, the company sees that the reduction in carbon footprint is an important step as most people do not realize that their own activities are in fact carbon footprints that are contributing towards various environmental issues arising nowadays.

This has prompted UMWT to adopt Reduction of Carbon Footprint as the theme for this year’s programme.

UMW Toyota Motor has taken impactful measures by installing solar panels at its assembly plant to reduce electricity  consumption.

The company has introduced new methods in waste water management and encouraged planting more trees surrounding its compound.

“On global basis, Toyota Motor Corporation established the Toyota Environmental Challenge 2050, which identified 6 key environmental issues to be tackled in the next 3 decades such as CO2 reduction, water usage optimization and establishing societies that practice recycling and earth-friendly culture”, said Akio Takeyama, Deputy Chairman of UMW Toyota Motor.

Meanwhile, the President of UMW Toyota Motor, Ravindran Kurusamy said “This Toyota Eco Youth programme inculcates amongst younger generation, the need to engage in environmentally sustainable activities. The lessons they learn here will be useful when they make decisions as future leaders of the country.”

The Toyota Eco Youth is one of UMWT’s CSR activities and is a community-level project involving multiple stakeholders including the local councils, governmental agencies, community leaders, local residents and private companies.

The company hopes that all participants of this year’s Toyota Eco Youth Programme take up the challenge to reduce greenhouse gases in their projects.


Japanese vehicles to get cheaper in Europe

                LONDON: Some Japanese vehicles are set to get a whole lot cheaper for car buyers in Europe than they have been until now thanks to the EU and Japan signing a trade agreement.

It will also be good news for anyone in the business of supplying models from Japanese manufacturers, although it won't see the price of Japanese cars and SUVs drop across the board.

Until now, imported Japanese cars had a ten percent tariff imposed on them by the EU, and there was also a three percent tariff on parts.

These tariffs will no longer apply, with the tariffs to be reduced to zero over eight years, but anyone assuming there will be a ten percent drop in the price of Japanese vehicles in general may be more than a touch disappointed.

On the face of things, Japanese cars are already popular in Europe, particularly Toyotas and Hondas, so a major reduction in the price of these models would only see Europeans buying more of them, right? Well, yes, it's a fair assumption, but for many models it won't happen.

The reason is that a large number of the most popular models sold in Europe by Japanese manufacturers are built in Europe, and therefore don't attract the 10 percent external tariff in the first place.

In fact, there are very few of the bigger-selling Japanese vehicles in Europe that are still built in Japan and exported into the EU. For example, the Toyota Yaris is built in France, the Toyota Auris is built in the UK and the Toyota Aygo is built in the Czech Republic. Likewise, the Honda Civic and Honda CR-V are both built in the UK.

However, if you fancy something a little more upscale, such as a Lexus for example, the majority of Lexus models sold in Europe are still built in Japan, and should therefore see a reduction in their price. Subaru is another manufacturer that doesn't assemble its cars in Europe, so if an Impreza is on your list of potential buys you could be saving some money in the future.

But just because a Japanese car isn't made in Europe it doesn't mean it will necessarily cost less. And that's because Japanese manufacturers also have a lot of manufacturing infrastructure in Southeast Asia and North, South and Central America, where tariffs still apply.


Porsche Boxster GTS and Cayman GTS enter

                KUALA LUMPUR: Porsche franchise holder Sime Darby Auto Performance (SDAP) has revealed two new additions - the Porsche Boxster GTS and Cayman GTS.

Separating the Boxster GTS and Cayman GTS is not just their starting base prices (including all duties - excluding insurance) of RM660,000 and RM700,000 respectively, but also a difference of 10hp and 10Nm in performance.

Both cars have the same wheelbase at 2,475mm, as well as overall length (4,404mm) and width (1,978mm) with the exception of height - the Boxster GTS stands at 1,273mm-tall, while the Cayman GTS is taller at 1,284mm.

Both cars get a new spoiler lip and nose design along with its standard fitment of bi-xenon headlights, Porsche Dynamic Light system, LED daytime running lights and blackened tail pipes for its upgraded sport exhaust system.

The Porsche Adaptive Suspension Management system has also been added, allowing the dampers and engine mounts to stiffen while the car is lowered by 10mm, as has the Sport Chrono package with Sport Plus mode on top of Normal and Sport modes.

The cars use a six speed manual transmission as standard and also comes with a set of 20-inch Carrera S wheels with 235/35 (front) and 265/35 (rear) series tyres - partially hiding the four-piston aluminium monobloc brake callipers that bite down on its 330mm (front) and 299mm (rear) cross-drilled disc brakes.

The options list includes the Porsche Doppelkupplung (PDK) dual-clutch transmission, 20-inch Turbo-design in optional gloss black and the Porsche Torque Vectoring system that supplements the standard Porsche Stability Management system.

The duo from Stuttgart receives the same naturally aspirated 3.4-litre flat-six mid-mounted engine (found in the Boxster S and Cayman S), and now red-lines at 7,800rpm along with an upgrade in power.

The Boxster GTS enters the scene with 330hp at 6,700rpm and 370Nm of torque from 4,500 to 5,800rpm, while the Cayman GTS gets 340hp at 7,400rpm and 380Nm of torque from 4,750 to 5,800rpm.

With a manual gearbox, the Boxster GTS is 0.1 seconds and 4kph slower than the Cayman GTS - taking 4.9 seconds to reach 100kph from standstill before reaching a top speed of 285kph.

But in Sport Plus mode and with the optional PDK transmission, the Boxster GTS shaves its 0-100kph sprint time down to 4.7 seconds, while the Cayman GTS does the deed in 4.6 seconds, and top speed is reduced to 279kph and 283kph, respectively.

This is due to the PDK's additional 30kg weight, which brings the 1,345kg kerb weight of both Porsches to 1,375kg.

"The new Boxster GTS and Cayman GTS, both lightweight mid-engined sportscars, makes its possible for customers to enjoy superior race track performance with uncompromising everyday utility and comfort," said SDAP CEO Arnt Bayer.

Porsche Boxster GTS

Porsche Cayman GTS


2017 upgraded Hyundai Elantra launched; 1.6L T-GDI Sport version for RM131,488

                SHAH ALAM: The 2017 sixth-generation upgraded Hyundai Elantra is offered in three variants, namely the 2.0-litre MPI Executive (RM116,388) and Dynamic (RM120,588), and the Elantra Sport (RM131,488).

Prices are on the road without insurance.

The 2.0-litre cars have Nu 4-cylinder engines delivering 152ps at 6,200 rpm and 192Nm of torque at 4,000 rpm, paired with Hyundai’s 6-speed automatic transmission.

The Elantra Sport gets a Gamma 1.6-litre turbo direct injected (T-GDI) petrol engine that generates 204ps at 6,000 rpm and 265Nm of torque at 1,500-4,500 rpm, mated to an Ecoshift 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (7DCT).

Dynamic Precision is the new design concept for the sixth-generation Elantra.

It gets front bumper air vents and LED daytime running lights, as well as High Intensity Discharge (HID) headlights (for Elantra Sport only) and eye-catching split type LED Tail lamps.

It also boasts a multimedia system that is equipped with Android Auto and Apple Car Play, and the biggest cargo space in its class with a loading capacity of 407 litres.

The Elantra is now reinforced with 53 per cent of Advanced High-Strength Steel (an increase of 32 per cent compared with the previous model) providing improved stiffness at a lower body weight.

 Hyundai Elantra (Dynamic).

This increased utilisation results in a 29.5 percent stiffer torsional rigidity and 25.3 percent greater bending strength, which bring improvements in vehicle ride and handling, quietness, durability and driving performance.

Furthermore, the new Elantra increased structural adhesive application 40 times at higher stress points on the chassis and to reinforce welding areas.

A component often found in aerospace applications, these structural adhesives also contribute to improved NVH and vehicle dynamics due to extra stiffness in the chassis.

In addition to the strengthened chassis, the Elantra makes structural improvements to the front side members that are now a hexagonal design and the dash-to-cowl connection has also been reinforced.

The rear doors also feature dual impact beams.

 Hyundai Elantra Dynamic.

A six airbag system is standard, along with Electronic Stability Control, Vehicle Stability Management, Traction Control, and ABS.

Additional safety technologies include Blind Spot Detection with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert and Lane Change Assist (for Elantra Sport only), a rear-view camera, Parking Guidance System, Tyre Pressure Monitoring System and Hill-start Assist Control.

The Elantra Sport also gets features such as an auto defogging System, dual-zone auto climate control and rain-sensing wipers.

 Hyundai Elantra Sport.

The new Elantra’s segment-exclusive Hands-free Smart Trunk, allows Elantra drivers to conveniently open the boot if their hands are full by simply approaching the rear of the vehicle with the key fob in a purse or pocket.

An audible beep will sound three times, and the boot will automatically open.

There is also Auto Cruise Control which makes long distance driving more comfortable as well as the 3 different drive modes namely Eco, Normal and Sport modes that allow the driver to adapt the throttle, transmission and steering to their driving needs.

Hyundai-Sime Darby Motors (HSDM) offers a 5-year or 300,000km (whichever comes first) warranty on all its new passenger vehicles.

A 24-hour road assist service is also available.

 Hyundai Elantra Sport.  Hyundai Elantra Sport.


Life-size LEGO Honda Civic Type R revealed

                MELBOURNE: One of the most iconic cars in the current Honda lineup, the Civic Type R, has been transformed into a life-size LEGO model ahead of the "LEGO MASTERS’ show airing on Australia's Channel Nine TV from April 28.

The team behind the creation, led by Ryan McNaught – LEGO Certified Professional – used more than 320,000 LEGO bricks in the build and took over 1,300 hours with a team of nine assembling each brick by hand.

McNaught expressed some exciting but technical challenges in building the Type R due to the unique shape and design of the vehicle – elements that attract award recognition worldwide.

“We’ve loved the challenge of this project. The car is shaped with a considerable amount of curved lines, making it a tough but interesting build. From the working lights and indicators to intricate LEGO Honda logos, the detail on the model has been a fun one for us to work on”, said McNaught.

A steel frame supports the structure of LEGO bricks, all glued together and is built completely by stock standard pieces. The car "comes to life" with the help of an iPad which turns on the headlights, DRLs, fog lights, hazard lights, brake and reversing lights.

The LEGO car was built from the ground up, layer by layer. The most challenging elements of the build were the window wipers due to their fragility, and the back spoiler which needed structure to allow it to float.

The impressive build celebrates Honda’s support of the upcoming show LEGO MASTERS, which will see eight pairs of LEGO fanatics fight it out in a high intensity building competition. McNaught will judge the show alongside Australian radio and TV personality, Hamish Blake, as host.

The LEGO Civic Type R will be making appearances across Australia over the coming months.


NY proposes financing subway with toll to enter Manhattan

                NEW YORK:  New York's mayor and the state's governor on Tuesday proposed a congestion zone in central Manhattan to finance an overhaul of the city's ailing subway.

The plan, which must be approved by the state legislature, marks the first time Governor Andrew Cuomo and Mayor Bill de Blasio — both Democrats — have set aside their bitter differences to support a comprehensive upgrade.

With six million passengers a day, the system is the largest in the United States and one of the world's most heavily traveled.

But its many failings — delays, overcrowding, accidents, filth — have long been a source of political discord and growing rider discontent.

De Blasio wanted a "millionaire's tax" to finance modernisation, and has regularly blamed Cuomo and his state transportation authority for the subway's decline.

Stressing that the crisis "runs deeper than ever," de Blasio acknowledged that "among all alternatives, congestion pricing has the greatest prospects for immediate success."

Under the plan, electronic tolling devices would be installed on roads on the perimeter of Manhattan.

Vehicles entering the "central business district" would be charged cashless tolls that would vary according to congestion levels, with off-peak discounts. Emergency vehicles would be exempted.

A similar system has been in place in London since 2003, as well as other big cities like Singapore, Stockholm and Milan.

Revenue from the tolls, and from a new internet sales tax, would be used to revamp the subway.

Cuomo approved a US$1 billion emergency plan in 2017 to replace the metro's outdated signalling system but the latest version involves more sweeping structural changes.

It is unclear how much revenue the tolls would bring in, but the non-profit Environmental Defense Fund estimates they would raise US$1 billion a year.

"Since transportation makes up a third of New York's greenhouse gas pollution, congestion pricing will help put the city and state on a trajectory to meet their ambitious climate goals" of reducing greenhouse gases by 80 percent by 2050, the Fund said in a statement.

The tolls would go into effect as soon as the electronic infrastructure is in place, no later than January 2020, according to the plan.

It also calls for re-configuring the entrances to stations to prevent fare evasions.

The renovation plans will be reviewed by a group of independent experts, led by engineers from Cornell and Columbia universities.


Highway users must still tap Touch'n Go cards even on toll-free days

                PETALING JAYA: PLUS Malaysia Bhd is reminding highway users that they must still tap their Touch'n Go cards at the toll lane readers as usual although no toll charges will be imposed on Jan 20 and 21.

The special two-day toll waiver begins from 12.01am, Jan 20 and ends on 11.59pm, Jan 21.

In a statement, the company said that the tapping of  Touch'n Go cards on the toll lane readers were required for travel record purposes.

Welcoming the two-day toll waiver in conjunction with Chinese New Year which was announced by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim on Jan 18, PLUS chief operating officer Datuk Zakaria Ahmad Zabidi said:

"PLUS anticipates that most highway users will seize the opportunity to enjoy the toll waiver and plan their Balik Kampung travels based on toll waiver dates.

"Therefore, we advise the public to plan their journey carefully and to anticipate that their journey back to their hometowns may take longer especially during the two special days announced by the Prime Minister.

He said the company had also placed several measures to ensure smooth and safe travelling during the festive season where heavy traffic is expected.

PLUS also recommends use of Waze or Google Maps during journeys to get the latest traffic updates.


Lotus Exige S with auto gearbox

                LONDON: The Lotus Exige, with its ground-breaking, extruding aluminium and bonded chassis, lightweight composite body and race-bred double wishbone suspension now features an automatic transmission option.

With an exceptional power-to-weight ratio of 292hp/tonne, an even more focused driving experience is made possible by including the 6-speed automatic gearbox option.

The automatic control panel is integrated neatly into the centre console of the cockpit, with buttons for Park, Reverse, Neutral and Drive with beautifully crafted, forged aluminium, manual-shift paddles located behind the steering wheel cross-spokes, upshifts take just 240 milliseconds, with rapid downshifts accompanied by a throttle-blip (when in Sport mode).

In both automatic and manual gearshift modes, the Exige S provides the driver with a very rapid driving experience.

In Sport mode, throttle response is sharpened and the Lotus Dynamic Performance Management (DPM) increases the traction slip thresholds allowing the driver even more vehicle control before an intervention is required.

The Optional Race Pack includes Race mode, which reduces the intervention of the DPM further and incorporates a Launch Control system.

Jean-Marc Gales, CEO Group Lotus plc, stated: “Expanding the Exige range, with a new automatic gearbox, opens up a new market for those who prefer using a paddle shift with the alternative of an automatic gearshift. We expect that the Exige S Automatic will account for over a third of the total global sales for the Exige S range as many drivers will appreciate the involvement of a manual paddle-shift and the convenience of an automatic.”

Aided by the 345bhp, 3.5-litre, supercharged V6 engine, the Lotus Exige S Automatic reaches 100km/h in only 3.9 seconds.

The automatic transmission is available on both Exige S and Exige S Roadster models.


GM's Cruise unit starts preproduction on autonomous shuttle

                SAN FRANCISCO: Cruise LLC, the self-driving-car unit majority-owned by General Motors Co., has started preproduction on its purpose-built battery-electric autonomous shuttle and boosted its access to cash.

The company has begun assembly of around 100 units of its Origin vehicle — unveiled in January 2020 — at a facility in Warren, Michigan, and expects to complete building them this summer ahead of testing.

Cruise has also secured a US$5 billion (RM21bil) credit line from GM Financial, the automotive finance arm of GM.

"Hundreds of engineers from General Motors, Honda and Cruise haven't skipped a beat, completing their development work, getting supply chains ready," Cruise chief executive officer Dan Ammann wrote in a blog post Tuesday.

"Against all odds, they've kept the Origin program on time, and on track for production at GM's Factory Zero assembly plant."

Cruise is one of several companies racing to put fully autonomous vehicles on the road, an effort that's taking longer than anticipated.

Alongside rivals like Waymo, the self-driving arm of Google parent Alphabet Inc., and Amazon.com Inc.-owned Zoox, the company is testing retrofitted conventional cars on public roads. Few startups are commercially deployed.

The multiyear credit line from GM takes Cruise's access to capital to more than US$10 billion (RM41bil), Ammann said.

Longer-term, the shuttles will be built at GM's more than 4 million-square-foot facility in Hamtramck, Michigan, known as Factory Zero. Full production is due to start in early 2023.


New VW Amarok all set for July 7 world premiere

                WOLFSBURG: Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles’ premium pick-up will celebrate its digital premiere on July 7.

And in the live stream it will be appearing to the world for the first time wholly undisguised.

In addition to its unique design, the completely new Amarok features numerous highlights and brings many technical innovations with it into the pick-up B-segment.

While the first Amarok was an in-house development, this time VW has teamed up with Ford. The basis for this version is the Ford Ranger.

Although the Ford collaboration brings various changes, VW says this pick-up will retain its own destinctive design and also go its own way in the interior.

Like the Ranger, the Amarok will be available with a 10-speed automatic transmission and as a rear-wheel drive or with two different four-wheel drives.

The engines also come from Ford and buyers are set to get a choice of a V6 diesel with a capacity of three litres, which produces 184 kW/250 hp in the Ranger, and four four-cylinder engines.

The live stream will take place at 10:00 CEST (4pm same day in Malaysia) on July 7.


RON95 petrol down 3 sen to RM2.26

PETALING JAYA: Petrol prices are down 3 sen from tomorrow.

RON95 and RON95 petrol will be priced at RM2.26 and RM2.53 per litre. Diesel remains unchanged at RM2.32 per litre.

The prices are valid from Jan 11-17.


Beijing traffic cut, schools closed due to pollution red alert

                BEIJING: Half of Beijing's private cars were ordered off the streets on Tuesday and many construction sites and schools were closed under the Chinese capital's first-ever red alert for pollution.

A grey haze descended on the city of around 21.5 million people, with levels of PM2.5 -- harmful microscopic particles that penetrate deep into the lungs -- at one point above 300 micrograms per cubic metre according to the US embassy, which issues independent readings.

The World Health Organization's recommended maximum exposure is 25.

The alert coincided with global climate change talks in Paris, where Chinese President Xi Jinping has vowed "action" on greenhouse gas emissions.

Most of China's greenhouse gas emissions come from the burning of coal for electricity and heating, which spikes when demand peaks in winter and is the main cause of smog.

It was the first time authorities declared a "red alert" since emergency air pollution plans were introduced two years ago, although levels were far from the city's worst.

It came a week after thick grey smog shrouded Beijing, cutting visibility severely and sending PM 2.5 levels as high as 634 micrograms per cubic metre.

Under the alert -- the highest in a four-tiered, colour-coded warning system -- outdoor construction sites are ordered to close, and some schools are urged to do so, with several Beijing residents saying their children had been told to stay at home.

An odd-even number plate system also means that half the city's private cars are not allowed onto the streets on alternate days. According to official statistics, almost 4.4 million private cars were registered in the Chinese capital at the end of 2014.

Some industrial plants are told to cease or reduce operations, as well.

Authorities in the capital were heavily criticised after only issuing an orange alert for last week's pollution.

An editorial in the government-published newspaper the China Daily on Tuesday said the decision to issue the alert showed that "authorities have listened to residents' concerns."

"Of course," it added, "we don't expect the frequent issuance of a red alert, and we hope that we will be able to forget about it in the near future", when the government can "keep the air clean for good".


Cycle & Carriage to sell Mercedes-Benz stake to Daimler

                KUALA LUMPUR: Cycle & Carriage Bintang Bhd will cease to be a shareholder in Mercedes-Benz Malaysia Sdn Bhd (MBM) as Daimler AG has exercised its call option on 66 million MBM shares currently held by the auto retailer.

In a statement today, Cycle & Carriage said it is obliged to sell the shares, representing a 49% stake in MBM, to Daimler for a consideration of RM66mil. Following the disposal, it will no longer be entitled to MBM's annual dividend of about RM11.2mil even when it is declared.

The disposal is expected to take place on Nov 30, 2019, being the expiry of 12 months from the date of the notice from Daimler.
"Cycle & Carriage Bintang would like to assure all our customers that the recent decision by Daimler AG to exercise their call option on the company’s holding in Mercedes-Benz Malaysia will not impact our commitment or ability to continue delivering exceptional experiences to our customers across our nationwide dealerships in Malaysia.

"All dealerships will continue to provide you with quality sales and aftersales services in accordance with the strictest Mercedes-Benz quality standards supported by Mercedes-Benz Malaysia," said Cycle & Carriage CEO Wilfrid Foo.

CYcle & Carriage said the disposal will not directly affect any of its trading operations, trading performance or support of its customers.

"CCB is a leading Mercedes-Benz dealer group in Malaysia, with 13 sales and aftersales facilities across the country to serve Mercedes-Benz customers.

"It is committed to being the partner of choice of MBM and Mercedes-Benz customers alike, and will continue to work alongside MBM to grow the Mercedes-Benz brand in Malaysia’s luxury car segment," it said.

Trading in Cycle & Carriage shares was halted from 9am to 10am on Monday in light of the announcement. It last traded at RM1.94 a share at Friday's close.


KLIMS'18: Meet the beauties

                KUALA LUMPUR: The Kuala Lumpur International Motor Show 2018 (KLIMS'18) has seen an interesting array of past, current and future vehicles that will have any petrol head steaming over, but what really puts things into gear are the lovely ladies that complement them.

This year's KLIMS'18 have participating automotive brands that include CAM, Citroen, Daihatsu, DS (Citroen), Ford, Grand Max, Honda, Hyundai, Isuzu, Kia, Lexus, Petronas Motorsports, Mitsubishi, Nissan, Perodua, Peugeot, Proton, Tata, Toyota and UD Trucks.

The opening hours at KLIMS’18 are 11am to 10pm on weekdays and 10am to 10pm on weekends.

Every entrance ticket purchased stands a chance to win either a Toyota C-HR, a Honda City or a Perodua Myvi in a visitors’ lucky draw.

Also, each online purchase of KLIMS’18 entrance ticket at AirAsia Red Tix is entitled to one entry of fortnightly draws with AirAsia return flights to Bangkok, Hong Kong, Bali, Taipei, Jakarta and Shanghai as well as the grand draw to Tokyo, Japan up for grabs.

Online purchases can be made via the AirAsia Red Tix website (airasiaredtix.com) and KLIMS’18 website (www.klims.com.my).

Entrance fees are RM20 on weekdays and RM25 on weekends.

For children aged 3 to 12 years old, entrance tickets are RM5 and students/senior citizens are charged RM5 (weekdays only).

There is also a family package where parents and up to five children aged 12 years old and below are charged RM40 (weekdays) and RM50 (weekends).

Those with special needs (with handicapped card/physically handicapped) get free entry together with one accompanying person.

Star Media Group is the official media partner of KLIMS’18.


Born-again bubble car set to go on sale in Switzerland

                ZURICH: The Microlino electric runabout, which takes design cues from the iconic BMW Isetta bubble car, is due to go on sale in Switzerland in the first quarter of this year, Germany's Autobild motoring newspaper reports.

Micro Mobility Systems has taken more than 11,500 pre-orders for the retro-styled car which features a single front door opening forward to present bench seating for two.

The lightweight Microlino is powered by an electric motor unlike the original produced by BMW Isetta. It used a lethargic petrol-driven motorcycle engine.

The Microlino has two wheels at the front and two at the rear which are set closer together. Some of the original bubble cars were tricycles with just one rear wheel.

Designed for crowded city streets, the nimble Microlino can dash from zero to 50kph in just five seconds. Top speed is given as 90kph.

The born-again bubble car has a range of 200km between battery charges and its batteries can be replenished by up to 80 per cent within two hours at an 6kW charging station

The start of regular deliveries was announced by company director Oliver Oubouter. Deliveries to German customers will follow.

The Microlino will be built in a factory in the German town of Delbrueck where the company aims to employ 50 people. The plant can turn out around 8,000 bubble cars annually.

The minicar was designed by Italian Marco Brunori and was originally to have been assembled near Imola by component maker and MMS-partner Tazzari.

The Microlino caused a splash as a concept at the Geneva car show in 2016. A ready-to-roll prototype was shown at the Frankfurt car expo a year later.


The new normal — Volkswagen Malaysia now offers home delivery option

                PETALING JAYA: Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM) now offers Volkswagen owners the option to have their new cars delivered to their homes.

The home delivery service is available nationwide at all authorized Volkswagen dealerships. Delivery is free for owners located within a 20km radius from their selected dealership.

All new Volkswagen cars will be delivered on a single flatbed carrier truck and fully covered in canvas to ensure tip-top condition upon delivery. Adhering to strict safety guidelines, the carrier trucks are cleaned and disinfected before and after each delivery, with drivers regularly checked and practicing COVID-19 safety measures.

Owners will receive an SMS notification once their new car has been collected and is en route to them.

Owners will receive an SMS notification once their new car has been collected and is en route to them.
The owner’s Welcome Kit will be placed in the locked car. The sanitised keys would be placed in an envelope and presented to the owner by the truck driver.

For owners seeking additional peace of mind, the Volkswagen Deep Sanitisation service package is now available, and starts from as low as RM80. The treatment package works to eradicate more than 99% of germs and bacteria in the car interior and air con system.

“With the introduction of this service, we are closing the loop and making it easy for our customers to buy a Volkswagen from the comfort and safety of their own homes. It is as simple as selecting their preferred model on the eShowroom, finalizing the sales process and having the new car delivered right to their doorstep," said VPCM managing director Erik Winter.


Petrol prices drop 1 sen, diesel drop 4 sen

                PETALING JAYA: The price of diesel has gone down by four sen, while petrol prices dropped 1 sen for the next seven days.

RON95 will be priced at RM2.29 per litre while RON97 will retail at RM2.57 per litre.

Meanwhile, diesel is at RM2.21 per litre (down by 4 sen from RM2.25).

The change will take effect from Dec 7 to 13.

The new prices were announced by the Domestic Trade, Co-operatives and Consumerism Ministry Twitter account on Wednesday evening.


Toyota swamped by orders for Mirai hydrogen car

                TOKYO: Toyota has been swamped by orders for its first mass market hydrogen fuel-cell car, the company said Thursday, with demand in the first month nearly four times higher than expected for the whole year.

The Japanese auto giant said it had received more than 1,500 orders for its “Mirai” sedan since its launch in mid-December. It had planned to sell 400 in Japan over 12 months.

Roughly 60 percent of those orders are from government offices and corporate fleets, with the remaining 40 percent from individual consumers, the company said in a statement.

Unexpectedly high demand for the environmentally friendly four-door car - which has a 6.7 million yen (RM204,000) price tag - means early buyers might have a bit of a wait.

“Due to the large volume of orders received, Toyota forecasts a significantly longer time to delivery than originally expected,” the statement said.

Fuel-cell cars are seen as the Holy Grail of green cars as they are powered by a chemical reaction between hydrogen and oxygen, which emits nothing more harmful than water from its exhaust.

But a limited driving range and lack of refuelling stations have hampered development of fuel-cells and their cousin, all-electric cars, which environmentalists say could play a vital role in cutting greenhouse gas emissions and slowing global warming.

The Mirai can travel about 650km without refuelling, some three times further than an electric car, and its tank can be filled in a few minutes like gasoline engine vehicles, according to Toyota.

The car will hit the US and some European countries, including Britain, Germany and Denmark, this year, Toyota has said.

It hopes to sell more than 3,000 units by the end of 2017 in the United States, and up to 100 annually in Europe.

Japanese automakers, including Toyota’s rivals Honda and Nissan, have been leaders in the green car sector.

This week, Honda unveiled the newest version of its FCV fuel-cell car at the Detroit auto show, with the vehicle set to hit the market next year.

Toyota has announced it is making thousands of patents for fuel cell vehicles royalty-free in an effort to encourage other automakers into the new industry.

News of the rapid success of the Mirai - which means “future” in Japanese - comes a week after the Tokyo metropolitan government announced the athlete’s village for the 2020 Olympics would be a futuristic “hydrogen town”.

On Thursday, Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe said he wants all government departments to use fuel-cell cars, and pledged to cut red tape so it is easier to set up hydrogen re-fuelling stations.


Idris Jala-led task force to ensure Proton on right track this time

                PETALING JAYA: The International Trade and Industry Ministry (Miti) has outlined the responsibilities of the task force to ensure Proton’s transformation plan is successful.

The task force, led by Performance Management and Delivery Unit (Pemandu) CEO Datuk Seri Idris Jala, will be responsible in monitoring the implementation of Proton's business recovery plan which aims to make the company more competitive, said its Minister Datuk Seri Mustapa Mohamed in a statement today.

It will also monitor a strategic plan to increase domestic market shares, and to penetrate into international markets.

"The task force will also identify strategic partners from abroad in the near future to assist Proton in achieving its goal of improving competitiveness.

"However, the task force will not be involved in Proton's day-to-day operations as that will be the full responsibility of Proton's management and board of directors," he said.

Mustapa, along with Minister in the Prime Minister's Department Datuk Seri Abdul Wahid Omar and Idris, held a meeting between the top management of DRB-Hicom and Proton concerning the actions, which would be taken in light of the Cabinet's decision.

The task force comprises six people, three each from the private and public sectors.

Task force members from the public sector are: Miti deputy secretary-general (industry) Datuk Nik Rahmat Nik Taib, Finance Ministry strategic investment division secretary Dr Yusof Ismail and Economic Planning Unit (EPU) deputy director-General (Macro) Datuk Yogeesvaran Kumaraguru.

Members from the private sector consist of: Symphony House Bhd executive chairman and Group chief executive officer (CEO) Tan Sri Azman Yahya, Celcom-Axiata Berhad chief executive director Datuk Sri Shazalli Ramly and Maybank Community Financial Services head Datuk Dato’ Hamirullah Borhan.

On April 8, the Cabinet approved Proton's request for a soft loan of RM1.5bil. The purpose of the loan was to enable Proton to make payments to vendors that supply components to it.

The loan comes with several conditions attached to ensure the national carmaker is competitive, even at an international level.


A little steering primer

                A

Absorption:
Steering absorption ensures that the steering wheel never turns too quickly.

Assistance:
Is delivered by the power steering. Mechanical steering is when only the force exerted by the driver on the steering wheel turns the car.

D
Directional stability:
The ability of the vehicle to continue on a straight path without moving the steering wheel.

R
Returnability:
Returnability ensures that the steering wheel always returns to center, guaranteeing that the vehicle continues on a straight path.

S
Stability limit:
The narrow range in which a car drives through a curve, for example, without swerving or becoming uncontrollable.

S
Steering power:
The effort that the driver must exert in order to move the steering.

S
Steering response:
The ability of a vehicle to cleanly and directly perform steering commands while driving on a straight path.

Key Developments In The History Of Steering

Power steering: This assisted steering is one of the greatest evolutionary steps in steering technology. It boosts the driver’s steering power hydraulically. Before power steering, parking a car was an involuntary workout. Only with the advent of the power steering system could larger and heavier vehicles be offered to a greater pool of customers, notes Koch.

Servotronic: The next development in hydraulic power steering was Servotronic, which makes it possible to adjust the amount of steering assistance to suit the speed of the vehicle, explains Koch. Since Servotronic assists with maneuvers, little effort is required from the driver. And it provides stability at higher speeds. In contrast to plain power steering, both are now possible. Koch adds, “So not only is it easy to park, it also delivers sharp handling when driving fast, with the focus on driving pleasure.”

Electric power steering: Koch calls electric steering the “Big Bang” in steering history. It offers the advantages of Servotronic, while saving on fuel because the EPS (Electric Power Steering) motor only uses electricity when it is actually used to steer. As cars spend most of the time driving straight ahead, this plays an active part in reducing consumption, which translates into fuel savings of a good three percent. It doesn’t sound like much, but the impact is enormous. EPS makes all steering functions possible, from parking assistance through to autonomous driving.

Rear-wheel steering: This further assists the agile driving performance of a vehicle. It enhances the vehicle’s lane stability at higher speeds (the rear wheels turn in tandem with the front wheels) and improves the car’s maneuverability at lower speeds (the rear wheels turn in the opposite direction to the front wheels). This significantly reduces the turning radius. Rear-wheel steering “drops” the car handling feel by one car class. BMW offers rear-wheel steering for the new BMW 5 Series and other models.


BMW listless with no new models shown in Geneva

                GENEVA: As BMW prepares to celebrate its 100th birthday next week, Mercedes-Benz is out to spoil the party.

Mercedes has its best shot yet this year to reclaim the luxury-car crown that BMW has held for a decade, a triumph that highlights the challenge facing BMW to re-energise the brand.

Yet the Munich-based company isn’t bringing any new models to this week's Geneva International Motor Show, in contrast with Daimler AG, which will show its bread-and-butter Mercedes E- Class sedan to European audiences for the first time, alongside a C-Class convertible.

“BMW has lost some of its dominance,” said Stefan Bauknecht, a Frankfurt-based portfolio manager at Deutsche Bank AG's DWS unit, which owns BMW AG shares. “Players who’ve had a weak phase have caught up.”

After filling all the niches from the 1-Series compact to the 7-Series, BMW's pipeline looks thin.

Chief executive officer Harald Krueger, in the job for almost a year, so far hasn’t laid out a strategy that can capture the imagination of customers and investors. By contrast, his counterpart at Daimler, Dieter Zetsche, has rejuvenated the fleet, pushed into segments that BMW previously dominated and boosted sales aggressively in markets such as China, where BMW's growth has slowed to a trickle.

 The M760Li xDrive on display at the Geneva show. The car is not a new model as it is a muscled-up version of the current 7 Series. - EPAREAD ALSO: BMW to debut M760Li and i8 Protonic Red at Geneva

It's a turning of the tables: Just a few years ago, Mercedes appeared to have lost its mojo, Zetsche's tenure was being questioned and then-BMW CEO Norbert Reithofer had bragging rights with a carbon-fiber-framed sports car that got a cameo in a “Mission: Impossible” movie.

BMW's latest car highlights the challenges facing Krueger. Introduced just a few months ago, the 7-Series hasn’t made a notable dent in the lead commanded by Daimler's S-Class for top- of-the-line luxury sedans.

Sales of the BMW model in January were fewer than half the 8,500 deliveries posted by the Daimler rival. Making matters even tougher, Mercedes has differentiated its S-Class by introducing convertible, coupe and ultra-luxury Maybach variants.

BMW rose 1 percent to 74.61 euros as of 2:23 p.m. in Frankfurt trading. The stock has dropped 24 percent this year, the second-worst performance on the STOXX 600 Automobiles & Parts Index, which has declined 17 percent.

Falling behind Mercedes, the luxury-car industry's current No. 2, would cast a shadow over plans to celebrate BMW's 100th anniversary alongside German chancellor Angela Merkel on March 7 in Munich.

It also makes for a tough start for Krueger, who took charge in May. A notable sales lift won’t come soon. The next generation of BMW's 5-Series business sedan isn’t due before 2017, and the best-selling 3-Series may come in 2018. And Audi is also keeping up the pressure with new and refreshed SUVs, including the subcompact Q2 and an electric crossover, due in 2018, to challenge BMW's ‘‘i’’ line.

“BMW is probably at the worst point in terms of its relative product cycle in quite a while,” said Dominic O’Brien, a London-based analyst with Exane BNP Paribas.

BMW said it delivered a record number of cars in 2015, adding that a gain of 7.5 percent in sales during January was a “pleasing” start to the year.

While luxury-car makers tend to emphasise pricing over volume, sales rankings do matter. BMW often notes its No. 1 ranking, and last year the company offered US dealers unusually high incentives to refresh their service fleets.

Part of the reason BMW lacks near-term growth drivers is that it's already occupying just about every segment it can, even pushing into people carriers with the van-like Gran Tourer. That creates a difficult challenge for Krueger, who at 50 years old is the youngest CEO of a major automaker, as he tries to shift the company from its roots emphasising acceleration and handling to tackle the transformation of the car into a smartphone on wheels.

“Krueger's task is comparatively harder” because he's the first BMW CEO confronted with disruptive technologies that threaten the whole sector, said Ingo Speich, a fund manager at Union Investment. “They were able to generate a blockbuster every four to five years that also helped lift profitability. That's not so easy anymore.”

Investors’ focus will be more on the outcome of a strategy review expected on March 16, about 10 months since Krueger took over as CEO. BMW's last rethink was in 2007, when Reithofer pushed the sporty brand to invest billions to reduce fuel consumption. One result was the electric “i’’ venture that pioneered, with mixed results, the use of carbon fibre in mass- produced autos.

BMW's electric-car effort has stalled. The company hasn’t announced any followup models since rolling out the i8 plug-in hybrid sports car in 2014. The battery-powered i3 last year sold 24,057 cars, out of a total of 2.2 million BMW, MINI and Rolls- Royce deliveries, as low oil prices and patchy charging networks turn buyers off of electric vehicles.

Krueger will need to address challenges including technologies for self-driving and connected cars as well as investment in electric vehicles to keep up with emissions regulations. The company will probably say how it’ll address slower growth in China, where stellar sales in previous years helped generate the funds necessary for ventures like the “i” project, said Union Investment's Speich. Krueger must also emerge from the shadow of Reithofer, who took over as chairman after leaving his CEO post.

Krueger “really needs to provide some kind of big bang,” said Sascha Gommel, a Frankfurt-based analyst at Commerzbank AG. “He needs to show he's taking charge in terms of the strategy.”


EV maker Rivian to start taking pre-orders for electric pickup, SUV

                LOS ANGELES: Electric vehicle startup Rivian said on Wednesday it would begin taking pre-orders for its electric pickup truck and SUV, with deliveries for both EVs scheduled for next year.

The launch editions of the electric R1T pickup and R1S SUV were priced at US$75,000 and US$77,500, with a 480km driving range on both vehicles.

Rivian, which is backed by Amazon.com Inc and Ford Motor  said US deliveries for R1T would start in June 2021, while the R1S deliveries would begin in August.

Pre-order holders will get early access on Nov 16 to configure their vehicle colour, battery range as well as wheels and tyres.

Rivian is building EV delivery vans for Amazon, which has ordered 100,000 vans from the startup, while Ford invested US$500 million in April with plans to use the Rivian EV platform to build a new vehicle in North America.


Singaporeans need over RM220,000 just for right to buy car

                SINGAPORE: The cost of buying the right to own a car in Singapore hit a record for the third consecutive bidding, according to data released by the Land Transport Authority.

Bids for open category certificates of entitlement (COE), which can be used for any vehicle type but end up being used mainly for large cars, increased to a high of S$99,999 (RM312,000) in April’s first round of bidding. That’s a cost incurred before buying the actual vehicle.

Premiums for larger and more powerful cars in Category B reached their second highest level at S$98,389 (RM307,000), while smaller cars, or those 1,600cc and below with horsepower not exceeding 130 bhp, rose to S$72,996 (RM228,000).

The government recently announced that it would reclassify electric vehicles under 110kw into this latter Category A as of May to make mass market EV’s more affordable and to help Singapore with its sustainability plans.

Still, the EV plans might not target special car owner categories.

Existing car owners must renew their vehicle’s COE before it expires and at least 6% of car buyers in Singapore owned more than one car last year, according to the LTA. A COE is valid for 10 years.

Over a third of the new registered cars in the second half of 2021 were luxury models (22% either BMW or Mercedes-Benz), according to Bloomberg calculations based on official data.

Private transport costs rose 17.2% from a year earlier in February, pushing the nation’s overall inflation to its highest level since Feb. 2013.

New registrations of motor vehicles in Singapore hit a 20-month low in February, according to Gaikindo.

For more details on Singapore's COE, go to the Land Transport Authority's website.


Hyundai Mobis develops the in-wheel system, an electric motor inside the wheels

                SEOUL: Hyundai Mobis announced it has succeeded in developing an in-wheel system, which lets the motor control each wheel directly.

The key technologies for in-wheel system, including drive motor and the controller, have been developed in-house.

The in-wheel system is the latest technology with no record of being mass-produced anywhere in the world.

Hyundai Mobis currently is verifying its reliability for mass-production based on the Hyundai Ioniq 5.

Hyundai Mobis began developing the in-wheel system in 2010 in response to the emerging electric car market.

In-wheel motor requires a complex design process to place a powertrain on wheels. It is seen as a technology that needs to overcome a series of challenges, including securing of drive performance and durability.

Key highlights of the in-wheel system are enhanced drive and power efficiency, longer cruising range, improved driving performance, and unique steer modes.

Applying the in-wheel system in the vehicle means to maximise the drive efficiency without the need to install a separate power transmission component, such as a drive shaft (a component that transmits torque to wheels). This will also improve power efficiency.

Additionally, in-wheel systems improve the driving range of electric vehicles with secured battery capacity.

It frees up space inside and allows new ways of packaging the interior.

The system also provides efficient torque distribution for each motor in a wheel, enabling optimum turns and body control.

Hyundai Mobis reportedly improved the turn movement and power efficiency by 20% or more through efficient torque distribution in all four directions.

Unique features like crab walking and zero turns are also available with the in-wheel system.

The in-wheel motor is the key technology of the e-corner system. Hyundai Mobis unveild the e-Corner system based on Ioniq 5 at CES 2023.

Hyundai Mobis is currently developing the e-Corner System by installing it in real cars with a goal of completing the development within the next five years.


Govt waiting for 'right moment' to implement RON95 petrol subsidy

                BATU CAVES: The government is looking for the "right moment" to implement its targeted RON95 fuel subsidy announced during Budget 2019 on Nov 2 last year.

Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail said the ministry was close to completing all the preparations needed to implement the targeted fuel subsidy.

"Choosing the right moment is important, and as far as preparation is concern, we are almost there," he said at a press conference today.

Saifuddin said the ministry was still trying to decide when to bring the matter up with the Cabinet.

He added that the mechanism and the decision on the price cap in relation to global crude oil prices, were some of the details that the ministry had to work out.

"So we are looking to pick the right moment that would bring relief not just regarding the financial impact on the government but also on other stakeholders, such as petrol companies, the petrol dealers and, most importantly, the people," he said.

Finance Minister Lim Guan Eng announced the petrol subsidy under Budget 2019.

Under the programme, owners of cars and motorcycles with engines below 1,500cc and 125cc respectively will receive subsidies for RON95 petrol at 30 sen per litre.

The subsidy for car owners will be limited to 100 litres of petrol monthly, while motorcycle owners will get 40 litres monthly.

Some RM2bil has been allocated for the new initiative, which is expected to benefit more than four million car owners and 2.6 million motorcycle owners.


WATCH: 5G helps modified Proton Exora drive itself

                PUTRAJAYA: Celcom showed last week the potential of 5G in autonomous driving.

It modified a Proton Exora into a self-driving car on Thursday, introducing it at the 5G Malaysia Showcase, which opened from April 18-21.

Other potential applications of 5G include remote healthcare diagnosis and consultation, immersive education, real-time e-sports with multiple 4K displays, holoportation, drones for various digital mapping and monitoring, robots, smart manufacturing, precision farming, virtual reality classroom and smart IoT campuses.

The public had a chance to take a taxi ride in the Exora over the weekend.

Radars, sensors, cameras, and laser-emitting lidars and a machine learning computer are necessary to turn a standard car into a robocar.

Local startup eMoovit Technology Sdn Bhd, which developed the driverless system, explained in the video how the driverless Exora works.
READ MORE:
Six levels of driving automation explained in simple terms
EU lawmakers back wifi-based car standard in win for Volkswagen
VW a winner as EU set to favour Wifi over 5G: draft
Ultra fast 5G network to usher in autonomous vehicles
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What's in store from BMW in 2020

                MUNICH: BMW says it will reduce consumption and emission levels of its current models while extending new offerings to its current lineup of vehicles from the second quarter of 2020.

The first goal would be achieved through the use of mild-hybrid technology as used in the 5 Series. Starting in March/April, the same tech would be deployed in the 3 Series as well as the X3 and X4.

Meanwhile, 33 more BMW models would already have complied with the Euro 6d emissions standard, which will not become obligatory until 2021.

The German carmaker also added that a further drive variant for the 1 Series as well as additional engines for the 3 Series Sedan and the 3 Series Touring will help to enhance the diversity of available options in the premium compact and premium mid-range segment.

It would also introduce more interior design options in the X5, X6 and X7.

The use of mild hybrid technology, first introduced in the 520d, comprises a 48-volt starter generator as well as an additional battery to enhance efficiency and vehicle dynamics.

The new 320d would feature the use of mild hybrid technology as will the 320d Touring, 320d xDrive Sedan, 320d xDrive Touring, X3 xDrive20d and X4 xDrive20d.

In the BMW mild hybrid model, the energy recuperated from accelerating and braking helps to generate additional drive power. A 48-volt starter generator delivers an additional power output of up to 11hp.

BMW said the electric over-boost is made available spontaneously, enhancing dynamics when starting off and accelerating from standstill.

During the journey, the electric over-boost can be used to support the combustion engine, enabling it to run as frequently as possible within an efficiency-optimised load range and to reduce consumption peaks.

Moreover, when driving within inefficient operational ranges, it is possible to supply the 48-volt battery with additional energy from the starter generator by raising the load point when required.

Furthermore, the 48-volt starter generator provides for smooth switching off as well as a faster and thus more comfortable re-starting of the combustion engine when the Auto Start-Stop function is used at road junctions or in traffic jams.

When the vehicle decelerates, the combustion engine can be disconnected at a speed of less than 15kph. The kinetic energy gained when decelerating further to a standstill is then used for recuperation.

 BMW 118d

The efficiency-enhancing effect of the “coasting” function has also been optimised.

At a speed of up to 160kph, the combustion engine is no longer switched into idle mode but is completely disconnected and during the journey, engine re-start is also fast and comfortable.

The optimised “coasting” function is available both in the Comfort and Eco-Pro modes of the Driving Experience Switch.

At present, 40 BMW models already fulfil the future Euro 6d emission standard.

The vehicles that will already comply with the Euro 6d emission standard as from the second quarter of 2020 include the 1 Series, 2 Series and 3 Series as well as the X1, X2, X3, X4, X5 and X6.

Starting in March 2020, additional drive variants will increase the diversity of the 1 Series and 3 Series model range.

The 120d will be added to the model range in the premium compact segment and is one of the models that already meet the Euro 6d emission standard.

The power generated by the car’s 2.0-litre 190hp four-cylinder turbodiesel powered unit is transferred to the front wheels via a standard eight-speed Steptronic transmission.

It will allow the new 120d to accelerate from 0 to 100kph in 7.3 seconds and onwards to a top speed of 231kph.

A new 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine complements the drive portfolio for the new 3 Series.

The power unit for the new 318i Sedan and 318i Touring are able to deliver a maximum power output of 156hp and 250Nm of torque.

 BMW 3 Series Touring

The standard equipment range for the new 3 Series entry model includes an eight-speed Steptronic transmission with acceleration from 0 to 100kph taking 8.4 seconds for the Sedan and 8.7 seconds for the Touring model. Top speed has been rated at 223kph (Sedan) and 220kph (Touring).

The 7 Series and 8 Series with extended standard configuration have extended their offerings of leather options and interior trims to the X5, X6 and X7.

From March 2020, a broader range of standard features will enhance comfort in the luxury-class models of the BMW 7 Series and the BMW 8 Series.

In the future, the 7 Series luxury sedans, 8 Series luxury sports cars as well as the high-performance M8 Competition Coupe, M8 Competition Convertible and M8 Competition Gran Coupe will be equipped with automatic soft-close doors.

Thanks to a wider selection of leather options and interior trims, there are now new possibilities to individualise the X5, X6 and X7.

From April, the perforated Vernasca leather trim in the colour combination of Canberra Beige/Black is additionally available for these three models. In the future, the X6 can be ordered with Cognac/Black perforated Vernasca leather.

Likewise available for the Sports Activity Coupe are the extended BMW Individual leather options of Merino in the colour combinations of Tartufo/Black, Ivory White/Black and Ivory White/Night Blue/Black.

Also, the BMW Individual all-leather interior trim of Merino in the colour combinations Coffee/Black and Tartufo/Black will be provided along with a new range of options for the BMW X6 - High-grade Poplar Grain, Anthracite-Brown, open-pored.


Preview 7-seater Ford Everest at 1Utama shopping centre

                PETALING JAYA: The Ford Everest is coming soon and Malaysians can get an up-close look at the SUV at the new wing of 1Utama Shopping Centre here next week.

Local Ford distributor Sime Darby Auto Connexion said the public could have a preview and get more information on the 7-seater Everest at the ‘Ford Go Further Roadshow’ from April 27 to May 2.

Also on display will be the Focus, Ranger and EcoSport.

Visitors who book any of these models at the roadshow will be rewarded with a RM300 "Shopping Bonanza" rebate.


Perodua does not engage third-party companies in hiring process

                RAWANG: Perodua clarifies that it does not engage a third-party in its hiring process, in trying to deal with misleading information being circulated by a WhatsApp account and website.

On June 24, the local carmaker came to be aware of a website containing the company's current employment vacancies, however, the wages and benefits being offered had been altered.

The company has already sought the help of the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) to identify the owner(s) of the website and WhatsApp account, and to remove the misleading information.

The posts are still available on the website.

"We will not hesitate to take legal action against those who have caused this unnecessary confusion to the public if deemed appropriate," said Perodua president and chief executive officer Datuk Dr Aminar Rashid Salleh.

For official employment information or any other information regarding Perodua, visit www.perodua.com.my.


US urges recall of 67 million air bag parts in safety mess

                WASHINGTON: US regulators are urging a recall of 67 million air bag inflators they say could explode in a crash, a major escalation of a safety issue that has plagued the auto industry for years.

The US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration identified at least nine cases of ruptured air bag inflators that led to injuries, including two deaths, dating from 2009 to as recently as this past March.

The parts, made by Knoxville, Tennessee-based ARC Automotive Inc., should be immediately recalled, the agency said in a letter to the company posted online Friday.

The air bags are used by at least a dozen car manufacturers, including General Motors Co., Stellantis NV, Volkswagen AG and Hyundai Motor Co. GM is recalling almost 1 million vehicles from 2014 to 2017 that are equipped with ARC inflators.

Still, the parts maker said it’s premature to begin a large-scale withdrawal.

ARC said in a letter to the agency that it would continue to cooperate with the investigation but doesn’t believe NHTSA can compel it to conduct a safety recall. The spat could end up in court if the parties can’t reach an agreement.

The situation echoes the sprawling recall of more than 100 million defective air bag inflators made by the now-defunct Takata Corp., which was the biggest auto recall in US history.

While the ARC problem appears to be unrelated, the prospect of recalling tens of millions of vehicles to get repairs would be a significant burden on the industry and car owners.

NHTSA didn’t specify every automaker or vehicle model that used the ARC parts.

The GM recall involves 994,763 Buick Enclave, Chevrolet Traverse and GMC Acadia vehicles from model years 2014 through 2017, NHTSA said in a filing.

‘Strongly disagrees’

ARC said it "strongly disagrees” with NHTSA’s assessment that a safety defect exists in the air bag inflators produced over an 18-year period.

The company has been cooperating with the agency’s investigation since 2015.

The alleged flaw in ARC’s inflators has key differences compared with the Takata defect, which has been linked to 25 deaths and 400 injuries in the US, according to NHTSA.

Regulators say they have "tentatively concluded” that welding performed in the manufacturing of ARC inflators until January 2018 may have left debris inside the part.

During a crash, gas produced by ignition is supposed to fill up the bag. When the channel is clogged, it can cause excess pressure to build up inside the inflator and potentially spray metal fragments, the agency said.

Seven of the nine incidents cited by NHTSA occurred in the US, including the death of a driver in Michigan in 2021.

The agency has also reviewed reports of ruptured ARC inflators in Turkey and Canada, the latter of which killed the driver.

Three of the incidents involve model year 2015-2017 Chevy Traverse SUVs.

Meanwhile, with Takata, the propellant used in its defective parts was based on ammonium nitrate, a chemical explosive that is difficult to keep stable.

Investigators found that the propellant could degrade after years of exposure to swings in temperature and humidity.

In a crash, unstable ammonium nitrate propellant can ignite with too much force and in turn rupture its metal housing, sending shrapnel-like pieces of metal into the vehicle.

Despite an extraordinary campaign by regulators and automakers to replace defective parts with safer ones, almost 8 million Takata inflators remain on US roads.

Continued deaths have prompted some automakers to warn drivers to not drive older vehicles until the parts are swapped out.


Japanese car makers looking to local pop culture heroes to stand out

                TOKYO: Some of Japan's top automakers, with a reputation for quality performance wrapped in often bland design, are turning to the country's pop culture to give them "J-factor" and help set them apart in a world of increasingly look-alike cars.

Designers of Nissan Motor's GT-R supercar, for example, borrowed from the popular "Gundam" sci-fi anime franchise to give the pug-nosed US$100,000 model a mechanical, robot-like appearance, with a squared off rear and round tail lamps.

"Take a look at the car's window and roof line. It doesn't flow smoothly from front to rear, it's bent. We wanted to express the awkward but cool, powerful shape of the Japanese anime robot," said global design chief Shiro Nakamura.

 Nakamura holding a model of Nissan Skyline GT-R supercar as he speaks next to a model of 'Zaku' character (centre) from Japan's popular robot animation series Gundam, at the company's Global Design Centre in Atsugi. — Reuters

"We wanted to set us apart from Porsche, Ferrari and other supercars, which are designed to mimic the streamlined beauty of a hunting animal, like a jaguar."

Nakamura, who has also designed for General Motors and Isuzu Motors, wants Japanese cultural aesthetics to help Nissan cars stand out from the crowd, noting that "globally, cars from the mainstream brands have started to look more and more alike."

"We stress Japan because we're a Japanese brand," he added. "Unless you derive design and styling from your own cultural DNA, there's no chance for continuity, and you lack confidence."

Nissan and others hope that efforts such as these can help them differentiate in a market where so many of today's cars are difficult to tell apart.

"Efficiencies of mass production, economies of scale, brand globalisation, a risk-averse corporate culture, a car's ergonomics, and infrastructure and regulatory constraints all play into this phenomenon," said Richard Kong, managing partner at Montaag, a California-based design firm, who was previously a chief designer at Ford's Lincoln brand and also worked at BMW's design subsidiary.

Others, too, are searching for that J-factor.

At Toyota Motor, the front grille and angled LED headlamps on the latest version of the hybrid Prius C are said to make the hatchback look a little like Pikachu, the tough but cuddly hero of "Pokemon", another popular, long-running Japanese anime series.

 The Prius c.

However, Toyota's global design chief Tokuo Fukuichi said the resemblance was not necessarily intended, and was more to do with engineers' efforts to improve the car's aerodynamics.

For Toyota, and especially its premium Lexus brand, the J-factor is more in the car's functionality than its styling, Fukuichi said: "the way the doors open and shut and how knobs and switches and the steering wheel feel when you touch them."

"Ahead of how the car looks we try to put the importance of visibility to reduce blind spots, for example. We stress the craftsmanship. That's our DNA and J-factor," he said, referencing a national culture where a bullet train stops at the platform within just 10 cm of where it should, and the conductor apologizes if the train is 30 seconds late.

At Nissan, Nakamura has experimented with a modern interpretation of Japanese pop culture's affinity for cuteness.

He says he has been told that the Nissan Juke, a mini-SUV, looks not unlike Monkey D. Luffy, a piratical lead character with a large grin in Japanese anime "One Piece". He says he has no issues with this, though any likeness was unintended.

"That ... cutesiness is also Japanese pop culture DNA (that) we try to convey in some of our cars while keeping them modern," Nakamura said, referencing also the Cube microvan, which is boxy and squat but has a modern look and an asymmetrical wraparound rear window.

"Symmetry is a Western concept," he said. "Japanese are more comfortable with imbalance."


Tesla wants videos of its cars running over child dummies taken down by safety group

                SAN FRANCISCO: Tesla Inc has demanded a safety advocacy group take down videos of its vehicles running over child dummies when its driver assistant system was engaged, calling them "defamatory" and "misleading."

The group, the Dawn Project, has launched a nationwide TV campaign warning of alleged potential dangers of what Tesla calls "Full Self-Driving" (FSD) software, adding to public and regulatory scrutiny of the technology.

One of the videos posted by the group shows a Tesla vehicle with FSD software running over child-sized mannequins, and says "Tell Congress to Shut it Down."

In a Cease and Desist letter dated Aug 11, Tesla said the Dawn Project and its founder "have been disparaging Tesla's commercial interests and disseminating defamatory information to the public."

The letter was disclosed by the Dawn Project on Thursday.

Tesla threatened to take legal action, saying the tests in the videos are "likely fraudulent" and "misrepresent the capabilities of Tesla’s technology."

The US safety regulator has stepped up investigations of Tesla's autopilot system following a series of crashes.

The company said its "FSD Beta," a test version of its new automated driving technology used by a limited number of consumers, "does recognise pedestrians, including children, and when utilised properly, the system reacts to prevent or mitigate a collision."

The Dawn Project was founded by Dan O'Dowd, a critic of Tesla's FSD system and a software entrepreneur in California who had run for the US Senate.

The Dawn Project said its tests "are completely legitimate and not deceptive," and called Tesla's letter "marketing propaganda."

Tesla did not immediately respond to a request for comment.


Mercedes-Benz pick-up truck to debut on Oct 25

                STUTTGART: The pick-up truck Mercedes-Benz is planning to make has long been known to be real, and no longer just a rumour.

It will finally be revealed in concept form on Oct 25 and is likely to be known as the GLT model. It's about the size of the Nissan Navara and Renault Alaskan since it's being built on the same platform as the two trucks. The protoype shown here undergoing testing have a similar rear lip spoiler as seen in the Navara.

Mercedes-Benz won't be too adventurous with its truck, as engine options would likely be similar to what the Navara and Alaskan are using to keep costs down. But it will still be a premium vehicle from Mercedes and we can expect some luxurious appointments to make the product stand out from the competition, which will be the Volkswagen Amarok, Ford Ranger and Toyota Hilux.

 Note the rear lip spoiler 'borrowed' from the Nissan Navara. - Images from Youtube user walkoart

So engine choices are expected to be a four-cylinder 2.3-litre turbodiesel, a 2.5-litre four-cylinder petrol version, and a 3.0-litre V6 turbodiesel making up to 258hp and 620Nm of torque.

The Mercedes truck is unlikely to show up in Malaysia as it will be built at Nissan's plant in Argentina and target markets in Latin America, Australia and South Africa. With its brand cachet, the Mercedes pick-up truck is expected to be priced higher than the mainstream trucks in the same segment.

Would you buy a Mercedes-Benz GLT (assuming that's the final name for the truck)?


Vehicle sales down nearly 21% in September

                KUALA LUMPUR: Vehicle sales in Malaysia fell 20.8% in September to 40,981 units from August due to the shorter working month and more stringent hire purchase rules, says the Malaysian Automotive Association (MAA).

It said on Monday sales – comprising of 36,517 passenger vehicles and 4,464 commercial vehicles -- fell 14.8% from the 48,125 units a year ago.

Total industry vehicles for the period January to September were however, up 1.8% to 425,711 units from 418,277 units in the previous corresponding period.

In terms of production, year-to-date there was a decline to 381,171 units from the 3865,965 units from a year ago.

On the outlook for October, the MAA expected sales volume to be better than in September because of the longer working month.


New Mercedes S-Class sets it apart from the competition

                SHANGHAI: As expected Mercedes' flagship luxury sedan boasts new levels of comfort, convenience and attention to aesthetic detail, but it's the host of new active safety and driver assistance technologies debuting on the car that are really going to set it apart from the competition.

Eschewing New York in favour of a Shanghai reveal, the 2017 Mercedes-Benz S Class aims to move the company ahead of the chasing pack when it comes to real-world semi-autonomous capabilities.

And thanks to a completely reworked and redeveloped suite of systems that can work together to offer everything from automatically slowing to enter a corner or bend and then accelerating out of it and being able to assist with steering inputs on the autobahn at speeds in excess of 192kph, to being able to take over completely in traffic jam situations with braking, accelerating, stopping, starting and even steering, it may well have succeeded.

This is the first Mercedes that can combine camera, sensor, live and archived mapping information to develop a 360° picture of the world around it so it knows that the reason the car ahead is slowing down is because there's a toll booth or car park barrier ahead.

There is going to be a huge transitional period where drivers start to cede more and more control over to their cars before full autonomy is the norm. And during that transition, drivers are still going to have to step in and take control, stay alert and always understand what's going on.

And it's here as much as in its new automated overtaking system - tap the indicator stalk, if the coast is clear, and overtaking is permitted, the car will pass the vehicle in front and pull back into lane within 10 seconds - that the car stands out.

The dual-screen instrument panel keeps the driver informed at all times of which systems are employed and what they're doing.

At the same time, all controls for the myriad systems are integrated directly into the steering wheel's surface and respond to touch, swipes and taps like a smartphone screen. These controls also monitor that the driver has at least one hand on the wheel at all times to ensure he or she is still ready to take responsibility for the car in challenging situations.

This is also why the car takes monitoring driver activity to new levels. As well as suggesting a break when traveling in heavy conditions for a prolonged length of time, the new S Class will be able to increase the driver's ‘wellness.'

Thanks to something called Energizing Comfort Control, this car can change your mood for the better making you feel fresher, warmer, joyful, comfortable or vitalised, depending on the setting. Select a mood and the car will activate the climate control, seat massage function, use fragrances, in-cabin lighting, increase or reduce ventilation and even add a musical soundtrack to change how you feel.

The new feel-good S Class will go on sale in July.


Toyota Vios Challenge - Season 2 (Round 4) comes to a heated finale

                SEPANG: The final race of the Toyota Vios Challenge race series drew to a close with the crowning of three new champions in the Super Sporting (professionals), Sporting (amateurs) and Promotional (celebrity) classes at the Sepang International Circuit (SIC).

Two cautious but tactical finishes in two races over the final weekend of the season were enough to crown Boy Wong Yew Choong (car 21) of team ST Wangan Racing as Season 2’s overall champion in the Super Sporting Class with a total of 95 points.

Wong was already in the lead with 79 points before heading to the North Track of SIC for Round 4 of the race series and managed to finish Saturday's Race 1 in third place and Sunday's Race 2 in seventh place to earn him 16 points to become the overall champion.

Taking first place on the final day of racing (Sunday - Race 2) was Kegani Racing's William Ho (car 39) who fought a hard battle after leading the 20-lap race from pole to finish.

“I wasn’t driving all out in order to conserve the tyres to the end of the race, and thankfully that strategy prevailed,” said Ho.

Ho lead the intense start-to-finish race for Race 2 and was constantly hounded by the drivers of Team Nanoplus - Keifli Othman (car 45) and Eddie Liew (car 9).

Midway through the race, Liew finally managed to get past teammate Keifli for second place.

While Liew and Keifli traded paint at the front, Laser Motor Racing’s Alif Hamdan (car 63) was getting faster with each consecutive lap and even managed to get past Keifli for third.

Alif’s challenge for second place, however, did not come until the very last lap but Liew kept his cool to retain track position and crossed the finish line second, just 2.4 seconds behind the race winner Ho.

Second overall in the championship was Kegani Racing’s William Ho with a total of 86 points while Dream Chaser’s Brendan Paul Anthony (Car 91) completed the four-round season in third with 73 points.

In the Sporting Class for amateur drivers, Tedco Racing’s Brendon Lim Boon Yew (car 86) claimed the overall championship with a total of 86 points.

This was just one point ahead of ST Wangan Racing Team’s Eric Yong Boon Pin (car 22) with 85 points, while third overall was Panglima City Racing Team’s Kenneth Koh (car 28) with 81 points.

Lim was in commanding form and kept much of his cool during a heated Race 2 to finish the 20-lap race with more than 11 seconds ahead of the pack to claim his first ever victory of the season.

“I’ve had a very challenging Season 2 with several misfortunes, technical problems and collisions and I told myself that I needed at least one race win before the season comes to a close. Thankfully, that came true today,” said Lim.

Yong crossed the finish line in second place for his second consecutive podium over two days of racing after finishing in third during the previous day's Race 1.

Coming in third for Race 2 was Kulim Top Wheels’ Datuk Ken Foo (Car 10) who thwarted a last-minute challenge from 14-year-old Hayden Haikal (Car 11).

“I’ve enjoyed every moment of racing in the Toyota Vios Challenge over the last two seasons. It has certainly improved my driving and I’m looking forward to be back next season,” said Foo.

As for the Promotional Class for celebrities, local actress Diana Danielle (car 15) was crowned overall champion with a total of 100 points and became the first woman to clinch the title.

Finishing second and third overall were singers Aiman Tino (car 77) with 94 points and Akim Ahmad (car 46) with 92 points respectively.

However, it was a series of firsts for the top three winners with local singer Khai Bahar (car 94) racing to his first ever race victory of the season.

He was joined by fellow singer Wany Hasrita (car 8) and UMW Toyota Motor deputy chairman Akio Takeyama (car 1) making their maiden appearances on the podium in second and third places respectively.

“To find myself leading the race and eventually winning is absolutely unreal and to be honest I was really nervous. It has been a fantastic and eye-opening experience for me and all my fellow celebrities to have had the opportunity to participate in the Toyota Vios Challenge,” said Khai.

The second season of the Toyota Vios Challenge consisted of four rounds held in four different venues throughout Malaysia with a total of 8 races.

The event opened at the Sultan Mizan Zainal Abidin Stadium in Kuala Terengganu, before moving to the Malaysia Agro Exposition Park
Serdang (MAEPS) in Selangor and was followed by the Batu Kawan Stadium in Penang, before heading to SIC.

“It has certainly been a successful Season 2 for us, and I am pleased to say that the Toyota Gazoo Racing branding has generated a tremendous amount of awareness. We look forward to continuing with this initiative as long as possible in Malaysia,” said Takeyama.


F1: Ferrari continues with tobacco sponsor

                LONDON: The Ferrari Formula One team and tobacco company Philip Morris International announced on Monday the renewal of one of the longest-running and least obvious sponsorships in sport.

A Ferrari statement gave no details about the amount or time frame of the deal.

The partnership has been running for more than 40 years, surviving a ban on visible cigarette advertising that led other teams to kick the lucrative habit and look for revenues elsewhere.

Philip Morris’s Marlboro brand was last seen on Ferrari’s grand prix cars in 2007.

The team race in a predominantly red and white livery, the same as Marlboro’s traditional branding although the Italian sportscar manufacturer has always been associated with the colour red.

Ferrari team principal Maurizio Arrivabene previously worked for Philip Morris International while Ferrari chairman Sergio Marchionne is on the tobacco company’s board of directors.

The European Union’s health commissioner asked Ferrari back in 2007 to end tobacco sponsorship of the team, saying it undermined the goal to end cigarette advertising at sporting events.

In 2010, a “bar code” livery was removed from the Ferrari cars after complaints that it represented subliminal advertising for Marlboro. Ferrari said it did so to end speculation and had never intended the code to be associated with the brand.

“It is verging on the ridiculous to claim that the colour red or a graphic design which shows a bar code could induce people to smoke,” former Ferrari president Luca di Montezemolo said at the time.


Honda Malaysia opens its biggest 3S centre in Kuching

                KUCHING: Honda Malaysia has opened its biggest showroom in the city with the introduction of the new 3S centre here by Northmont Capital Sdn Bhd.

The new Honda 3S centre is strategically situated in Petra Jaya, which is convenient and easily accessible for customers residing in the many residential areas to the north and south of the Sarawak River.

Honda Malaysia now has 14 dealerships in the East Malaysia region, and the opening of this new Honda 3S centre can further enhance the Company’s dealership network in the region.

Northmont Capital invested RM15 million into the new Honda 3S Centre that sits on a 4,711-square-metre land with a total build-up area of 2,339 square metres, which is the biggest Honda 3S Centre here.

The new 3S centre houses a total of 12 service bays, 3 general repair bays and 1 tyre service bay that can service up to 50 cars per day.

“Honda Malaysia is also prioritising after-sales services to offer the best experience of owning a Honda," said Honda Malaysia managing director and chief executive officer Hironobu Yoshimura.

"To-date, Sarawak recorded close to 40,000 service intakes, which is an increase of 17% from 2021. The opening of this new 3S centre with facility expansion is timely to meet increasing demand and customer needs. I am confident that this new Honda 3S Centre can provide enhanced after-sales service to our customers in Kuching and further elevate the customer satisfaction,” said Yoshimura.

Northmont Capital has made available a variety of amenities at the 3S centre, comprising comfortable lounges, complimentary Wi-Fi services, and kids’ corner.

On top of that, the dealership offers road tax renewal and insurance coverage renewal services, car wash services, vehicle air conditioning service, and tyre alignment and balancing services, among others for customers’ convenience.

“This year, the East Malaysia region has recorded encouraging sales performance, and contributed 5% to Honda Malaysia total sales from January to September 2022," said Honda Malaysia managing director and chief executive officer Hironobu Yoshimura.

"Out of the 5% sales contribution, Sarawak is the bigger contributor with 3%. The City is the most sought-after model in Sarawak, contributing 22% to the total state sales in the region. The new HR-V which was launched in July 2022 has also received overwhelming response in Sarawak, with over 200 units sold in the state.”


Mercedes-Benz GLA 250: Compact luxury

                THE Mercedes-Benz GLA might be the entry level sports utility vehicle (SUV) but by joining the locally assembled range, it has become more value for the money with a slightly different equipment package.

With on-the-road without insurance price of RM271,164, the GLA 250 AMG Line comes with the Advanced Connectivity Plus and Parking Function with perpendicular parking.

Little else is different between the local and the previously imported model, which certainly adds to the vehicle’s good value for the buck.

We certainly enjoyed ourselves over the weekend with the GLA 250 AMG Line, especially its sprightly pace with turbo power against the normally aspirated one in our own crossover.

The GLA 250 comes with a 2.0-litre engine that delivers 244hp and 350Nm of torque that peaks as early as 1,800rpm, giving it a 0-100kph acceleration of 6.9 seconds.

We enjoyed this quick acceleration performance each time the road cleared up only to sober up as we reached traffic congestion again, but that was the thrill we had during the short time the GLA 250 was in our hands.

The GLA 250 didn’t disappoint in all other manners of city motoring either as it was generally easy to live with in city traffic although the occasional turbo spurts did seem to have the fuel tank level indicator going down quicker.

This was despite the auto engine cut-off feature every time we came to a stop, with the engine restarted the moment we hit the accelerator pedal.

That’s the price of the heady charge whenever one could partake of and we felt that was something one could control; simply, it’s a choice that the GLA 250 owner would have to live with.

With the 8G-DCT dual-clutch (eight-speed) automatic transmission, good fuel mileage should be better enjoyed on long distance drives with the engine running at a lower pace at legal speeds (which we didn’t have the time to check out).

Mercedes chooses a rather simplified version of gear selection via the steering control stalk; flick down for D(rive), up for R(everse) (N(eutral) is a light flick in between, and press down for P(ark).

For manual shifting, the steering wheel paddle shifters would come in handy for those who like to select the gear they are most comfortable with for taking corners.

As the entry level SUV/Crossover, the GLA 250 comes in a smaller dimensional package against the GLC model and that makes it more manoeuvrable in tight spots although parking is made so much easier with the reverse camera and body detection aids.

Its rounded edge profile has a contemporary look and the power design details include the short body overhangs front and rear and power dome bonnet while the 19-inch twin-spoke alloy wheels come as part of the AMG Line package.

Our eyes are drawn particularly to the glittering nose panel that encompasses the bold and striking Mercedes-Benz logo, nicely matched by a smaller one on the power dome bonnet.

Its sporty orientation is further boosted with the AMG Line’s lowered and dynamically tuned suspension that made it a delight to drive along winding stretches with pretty accurate steering feel and minimal body lean.

It is smaller than its bigger SUV cousins but the GLA 250 is still a tall vehicle compared with sedans and being dynamically sound in this area made it just as exciting to drive.

In creature comfort, the dynamically tuned suspension handled the respective road surfaces the city is riddled with – potholes, dips, rumble strips, speedbumps, badly patched surfaces, among others – rather well.

Most of the road impacts and harshness were nicely absorbed to make ride comfortable, except for sudden dips and bumps that brought about a hard impact almost to the point of being jolting.

Generally, the AMG suspension system would please most needs nicely in ride comfort while being dynamically sound for quick corner bashing.

Road roar is a common bane these days and this varies according to road surfaces; that in the GLA 250 was not that much different.

We noticed the growing pitch in road noise from about 70kph but it wasn’t that intrusive or loud and we could catch the news being read over the radio system without turning up the volume on the steering control.

As a SUV, the GLA 250 has flexible interior space that one could make use of and we found this feature useful for moving some sizeable items around over the weekend.

The 40:20:40 split rear seatrests are easy to fold flat to enhance the standard 420 litres of luggage space by at least twofold; good enough for us to carry our stuff around without having to make more trips than necessary.

Being a compact SUV, the GLA 250 only seats five but in good comfort with adequate legroom and headroom; it’s also wide enough to provide reasonably good elbowroom as well.

All told, the GLA range is for those who wants their premium drives not too big and nicely sized to their needs, with a “power” kick for that occasional quick pick-up-and-go.

And as a locally assembled model with a cheaper price, it felt just as solid and well put together for one to enjoy its merits all the more.

SPECIFICATIONSMercedes-Benz GLA 250 AMG LineEngine: 1,991cc, four-cylinder, turbocharged
Maximum power: 224hp at 5,500rpm
Maximum torque: 350Nm from 1,800 to 4,000rpm
Transmission: Eight-speed 8G-DCT dual clutch automatic
Acceleration (0-100kph): 6.9 seconds
Top speed: 240kph
Features: Airbags, lowered and dynamically tuned suspension, Direct-Steer system, 19-inch five-twin-spoke alloy wheels, aluminium roof rails, auto dimming rearview and driver’s door mirror, multi-function sport steering wheel in Nappa leather, illuminated door sill panels with Mercedes-Benz nameplate, rear seatbelt status indicator, tyre pressure monitoring system, remote engine start, live traffic information, Mercedes-Benz emergency call system, Adaptive Highbeam Assist, reverse camera, cruise control, Blind Spot Assist, Active Parking Assist, Active Brake Assist, Exit Warning Assist, Active Lane Keeping Assist, Keyless-Go, Easy-Pack tailgate
Price: RM271,164 (on-the-road price without insurance)


April 25-May 1: Diesel down three sen, petrol prices unchanged


Banks rubbish report 60% of car loan applications rejected

                KUALA LUMPUR: The Association of Banks in Malaysia (ABM) refutes a news report’s claim of a 60% car loan rejection rate, saying the approval rate in the first nine months of the year remained the same as last year’s, at 68%.

The association said based on feedback from eight commercial banks offering hire purchase financing, approval rates for loans to purchase cars in 2016 stood at about 68% of the total number of applications received.

“The approval rate from January 2017 up till September 2017 remained steady at the same percentage of 68% based on total number of applications received,” ABM said in a statement, referring to a Chinese daily report published earlier this month.

It added that commercial banks in Malaysia had remained supportive of the automotive sector as evidenced by the high approval rates, and car loans would continue to be extended to eligible borrowers.

ABM pointed out that as with all loans, banks would in their credit evaluation process consider all aspects to determine an applicant’s ability to service the loan.

It listed several factors, including the applicant’s ability to service the loan, the applicant’s repayment track record, loan amount applied for, and length (or term) of the loan.

Among the main reasons for the rejection of car loans are history of credit default/unfavourable track record, insufficient income evidence, uncertain payment ability and low net disposable income.

ABM said members of the public could contact ABMConnect at 1300-88-9980 or via eABMConnect at www.abm.org.my for any enquiries or complaints related to car loan matters.