US senators ask automakers for details on cyber security

                BOSTON: Two US senators have asked the world's biggest automakers for information on steps they have taken to protect cars from being hacked, as attention on vehicle security has surged following the first car recall over a cyber bug.

Democratic Senators Edward Markey and Richard Blumenthal wrote to 18 automakers on Wednesday asking about efforts taken to secure vehicles including 2015 and 2106 models. They asked automakers how they test electronic components and communications systems to ensure attackers cannot gain access to onboard networks.

Concerns about auto cyber security have grown since July, when researchers gained remote control of a moving Jeep, prompting Fiat Chrysler Automobiles to recall some 1.4 million vehicles for a software update.

The request from the senators follows a review that Markey began in December 2013. He concluded in a February 2015 report that the spread of technology connecting vehicles to networks had outpaced industry and government efforts to protect vehicles from hackers.

The senators said they want to know what automakers have done since the last survey to beef up security.

Modern cars typically have dozens of small computers that connect to multiple external networks, making them vulnerable to cyber attacks similar to ones waged on traditional computer systems. Researchers have said attackers could put lives at risk if they can gain remote control of key vehicle systems such as steering and acceleration.

"As vehicles become increasingly connected to the Internet, and to one another through advanced features and services, we continue to see how these technologies present vulnerabilities that can compromise the safety and privacy of drivers and passengers," the senators' letter said.

They added that the industry has made some progress in recent years. "We appreciate that many automotive companies have begun to take concrete steps to close these security gaps."

Letter recipients included BMW, Fiat Chrysler, Ford, General Motors Co, Toyota and Volkswagen AG.

Security experts have said it will take years for carmakers to plug security holes because they have been adding computers to vehicles for two decades, but only recently started seriously looking for security bugs.

"They've been trying to fix the problems, but it takes a long time," said Chris Rouland, founder and chief technology officer of cyber security firm Bastille, said in a Reuters.com video on car hacking.


Early look at Cars 3 at NAIAS

                LOS ANGELES: The North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) announced today that Pixar Animation Studios, will participate in the 2017 NAIAS – hosting a press conference on Sunday, January 8, 2017, including an early look at their upcoming summer film, “Cars 3” and the debut of a life-size version of one of the film’s stars.

“Having Pixar choose to join NAIAS and share an early sneak peek at their next film – from one of the most famous movie franchises in the studio’s storied history – is proof that Detroit is home to all facets of automotive, whether it’s fantasy or real-life,” said Sam Slaughter, 2017 NAIAS Chairman.

Along with its much-anticipated press conference, Pixar will create a special “Cars 3”-themed display on the show floor for the thousands of journalists and nearly a million individuals that will visit during the run of show.

“With every film that we make at Pixar, we do our best to create worlds and characters that ring true to our audiences,“ said “Cars 3” director Brian Fee. “A huge part of doing this successfully lies in the extensive research that we do on each film.

"‘Cars 3’ is a love letter to racing and its roots, so we could not be more excited to be a part of the North American International Auto Show to share a little bit of our film with our fellow car enthusiasts.”


Designing sounds for electric vehicles

Zimmer (left) and Vitale working on sound design for the BMW Vision M NEXT hybrid supercar in 2019. The supercar project has since been ditched for cost reasons.
COLOGNE: A strange, soft whistle travels along the street. It sounds like a noise made by a flying saucer, or something out of Star Trek.

In fact, it's an electric car. They sound very different from conventional vehicles — and that's completely intentional.

"For years, manufacturers have tried to make their vehicles quieter," says Stefan Sentpali, professor of Acoustics, Dynamics and Automotive Engineering at the Munich University of Applied Sciences.

"Now they have to deliberately add a sound to them," he says.

Without added noise, electric cars are so quiet that they can pass unnoticed by unwary pedestrians, the visually impaired or other road users. So by law, new hybrid and electric vehicles have to have added noise, known as an acoustic vehicle alerting system (AVAS).

No creaks or rumbles

"How exactly the cars sound is up to the manufacturers," says Sentpali. "It can be either exciting or plain — the important thing is that it sounds like a car."

Sounds have helped people to classify objects for thousands of years. "People have a certain expectation of what an object sounds like," says Sentpali, and this of course also applies to electric cars.

"The sound must be of high quality, it mustn't creak or rumble, because we subconsciously associate that sort of noise with something being wrong," he explains.

But how should they sound? Sentpali believes this is where science fiction can help. "People know how vehicles sound in sci-fi films, and they will use this as a guide for e-vehicles," he says. "They sound up to two octaves higher, like a soft, pleasant whistle."

Indra Koegler is a sound designer at Volkswagen. Together with Klaus Zyciora, head of design for the VW Group, and the musician Leslie Mandoki, VW has developed a futuristic sound for its electric series.

"E-mobility feels and drives differently, so it can sound different," says Zyciora. The trick is to create a sound for different groups that is perceived by all of them as pleasant and not disturbing.

A new world inside

Future VW e-vehicles will sound different, depending on their size. "Today, a conventional small car makes a different noise to a large sedan," says Koegler. The e-cars also sound different from the inside, for example in warning sounds and voice control responses.

"The most beautiful sound in a car is absolute silence," says Mercedes sound designer Thomas Kueppers. The German manufacturer is aiming for an almost noiseless driving experience.

In future models, such as EQS and EQE, however, there will also be added driving sounds that change when accelerating.

The range of different sounds includes starting, ready to drive, engaging the gears and so on. These driving noises are not ready-made MP3 or wave files, but the individual sounds of a real-time calculation. "Depending on the driving status, the sound changes. Behind this is a great deal of computing power," says Kueppers.

Renzo Vitale is responsible for the BMW Group's electric car sound. In the case of the MINI Electric, this includes the prescribed driving noise as well as the sounds in the interior. "When stationary, the electric car should sound friendly, light and bright; when driving, sporty and dynamic," says Vitale.

Together with Hollywood film composer Hans Zimmer, he is developing various interior soundscapes that are intended to provide an even more aesthetic driving experience.


Toyota sets up research institute in China to study hydrogen, green technologies

                BEIJING: Toyota Motor Corp said on Sunday it was setting up a research institute here in partnership with Tsinghua University to study car technology using hydrogen power and other green technologies that could ease environmental problems in China.

The initiative, outlined by Toyota’s president and chief executive Akio Toyoda in a speech at Tsinghua University, is part of the Japanese carmaker’s efforts to share more technology with China as it seeks to expand its business in the country by beefing up manufacturing capacity and distribution channels, a source close to Toyota said.

The Tsinghua-Toyota Joint Research Institute will conduct research into cars and new technology to solve environmental problems in China, including reducing traffic accidents, Toyota said in a statement.

 The fuel cell stack (above) is what generates the on-board electricity from hydrogen and oxygen which propel FCEVs with zero emissions. The high-pressure tank (below as shown in cutaway) stores the hydrogen fuel.

The institute will “co-operate in research not only related to cars for Chinese consumers, but also in research related to active use of hydrogen energy that can help solve China’s energy problems,” the company said.

The move dovetails with Toyota’s announcement this month that it would offer carmakers and suppliers around the world free access to nearly 24,000 patents for electric vehicle technologies.

Executive vice-president Shigeki Terashi said earlier this month that the automaker intended to become a tier 2 supplier of hybrid systems and that it had already received enquiries from more than 50 companies.


2017 Renault Mégane R.S. to debut in Monaco

                MONACO: Due to be unveiled officially at September’s Frankfurt Motor Show in Germany, the all-new Mégane R.S. is poised to break cover in Monaco on Friday 26th May, driven by Renault Sport Racing Formula One Team’s Nico Hülkenberg.

For the occasion, the car will sport a yellow and black livery to mark the 40th anniversary of Renault’s involvement in Formula 1.

Since 2004, the successive generations of Mégane R.S. have provided their owners with landmark innovations and technologies, from independent steering axis front suspension and a choice of Sport and Cup chassis, to Recaro bucket seats, Brembo brake callipers and innovative R.S. Monitor.

Renault Sport’s staff are continually exploring new frontiers when it comes to providing customers with exceptional suspension and engine performance, along with aerodynamics honed for efficiency and the best of F1 technology.

The successive generations of Mégane R.S. have all stood out as benchmarks in the compact sports car class.

Renault Sport’s road car range has long been driven by the experience Renault has forged in Formula 1 over the past four decades.

The three generations of its flagship model – the Mégane R.S. – have featured a raft of advanced technologies for almost 15 years.


100 Tesla Model S electric cars to be imported duty-free

                SAN FRANCISCO: Good news for green "motoring" in Malaysia. The Malaysian government has approved 100 units of Tesla Model S to be imported soon with duty exemptions.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak, who is on the last leg of his week-long working visit to the United States, announced this after a tour of Tesla Motors headquarters in Palo Alto near here. He also had a brief drive of Tesla's latest model, the Model X SUV.

Najib said he visited Tesla to show the government’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions and a cleaner environment.

READ ALSO: Tesla Model S coming to Malaysia The 17-inch touchscreen is the main attraction on the dashboard of the Model S.

The nod for the bulk purchase ties in with Greentech Malaysia's plan to promote sustainable mobility and green technology in the country. Greentech is an organisation under the Ministry of Energy, Green Technology & Water.

The Model S are expected to be restricted for use among government-linked companies (GLCs) under a leasing programme spearheaded by Greentech.

In May 2015, Greentech CEO Ahmad Hadri Haris had  pointed out that Model S would be leased out to interested GLCs for two years at RM6,000 per month, which includes servicing and maintenance.

Late last year, it brought in two units of Model S for trials and offered the media a chance to drive it. (CarSifu had a day-long drive in the car recently. Report to come soon).

The two cars, shipped in via Tesla Hong Kong, were rear-wheel drive variants of the 85kWh Model S. It has a range of 427km, a top speed of 225kph and 0-100kph sprint time of 5.4s.

The 85kWh Li-ion battery has since been discontinued in favour of the 90kWh battery, which offers longer range and performance.

 Najib was impressed with the Model X after driving it. The SUV has falcon wing doors as shown. - Bernama

At Palo Alto, Najib expressed delight after taking the Model X for a spin.

“Its capabilities are really extraordinary and the display on the fully digital panel is very sophisticated,” said the Prime Minister. “It is a very fast car with acceleration from zero to 100km at around three seconds (3.4s for P90D variant with Ludicrous Speed Upgrade).”

Also striking a chord with him were the safety features of the electric SUV, which comes with falcon wing doors. He singled out the forward-collision warning with automatic braking, found normally in more expensive cars, as a safety system that impressed him.


VW embarks on RM211bil electrification plan

Diess promises that mass produced VW electric cars will be 'emotional vehicles'.
WOLFSBURG: Volkswagen expects to become the most profitable manufacturer of electric cars thanks to a multi-billion euro expansion plan to mass produce battery driven vehicles, chief executive Herbert Diess said on Friday.

VW will spend almost 44 billion euros (RM211bil) on developing electric cars, autonomous driving and new mobility services by 2023 and explore further areas of cooperation with US automaker Ford.

Diess said he hoped to have an outline agreement on cooperation with Ford fleshed out by the end of the year, with the initial focus on commercial vehicles. He added that a merger with Ford was not on the agenda and also said there were no plans to take a stake in the American company.

Mass producing electric cars will help the carmaker reduce the cost to the same level as current diesel vehicles, Diess said at a news conference in Wolfsburg, VW’s home town.

“Very emotional vehicles, high economies of scale, I think we will be the most profitable company in electric vehicles,” Diess said, responding to a question in English.

The supervisory board of Europe’s largest carmaker voted on far reaching capital spending plans to begin mass production of electric vehicles in Europe, the most radical strategy shift since VW’s diesel cheating scandal in 2015.

Volkswagen will retool three of its German plants to build electric cars and to explore alliances with battery partners and rival carmakers.

VW plans to increase productivity of its factories by 30 percent by 2025 by building more vehicles from different brands on the same production line. It wants to lower the carmaker’s research and development ratio at the group’s automotive division to six percent of revenues from 2020 onward.

“Volkswagen must become more efficient, more productive and more profitable in order to finance the high expenditure in he future and stay competitive,” Diess said.

Jobs fear

Labour unions, who control half the seats on Volkswagen’s supervisory board, need to sign off on the plan to create global production capacity for 1 million electric vehicles by 2025 amid their concerns that assembling battery driven cars will require fewer workers.

Around 436,000 industrial jobs in Germany are tied to building petrol and diesel engined vehicles.

Jobs are under threat because a combustion engined car has 1,400 components in the motor, exhaust system and transmission, while an electric car’s battery and motor has only 200 components, according to analysts at ING.

Volkswagen’s management this week outlined plans for converting car plants in Zwickau, Emden and Hannover to build electric cars, providing job guarantees to workers until 2028.

The first ID electric car is due to roll off the production line in Zwickau in 2019, as the plant ramps up to a production capacity of 330,000 electric vehicles. Zwickau currently builds the VW Golf and the Golf Estate.

Volkswagen’s MEB electric vehicle platform is also being eyed by Ford as the two companies continue exploratory talks about an alliance to develop self-driving and electric vehicles.

“Our two companies complement each other very well in terms of both products and regions. The joint development and manufacture of a range of light commercial vehicles is at the core of the envisaged cooperation,” Diess said.

VW expects significant synergy effects from this alliance, which may allow potential for developing a next generation Amarok pickup truck series and further sports utility vehicles, Diess said.


Toyota unveils comic book concept car

                TOKYO: When car designers seek inspiration, they usually look to nature or to objects like fighter jets, but for Toyota's latest conceptual take on its GT86 sportscar, the company has looked to cult 1990s manga comic book and cartoon series "Initial D."

Those that know their manga will know that central "Initial D" character Takumi Fujiwara is a delivery driver by day and aspiring street racer by night. But they'll also know that his car of choice was a seriously tuned 1986 Toyota Corolla GT Coupe AE86.

But that's only because he had no money — the old Corolla was his parents' car — and because the GT86 wasn't available until 2012, and so Toyota has reimagined the Initial D car for the 21st century, taking what was best about the fictional AE86 and applying it to the real-life GT86.

So the concept car, created by Toyota's UK special projects department, sticks with the black-and-white monochrome graphics that the comic car sported. It also boasts the 2016 version of each real-life custom part that Fujiwara fitted to his car in the comic series.

So the Initial D GT86 has a carbon fiber bonnet, the latest TRD Sportivo suspension system, a Fujitsubo exhaust system, a Cusco Type OS front strut brace and custom RS Watanabe alloy wheels.

Even features that seem dated by today's standards such as yellow-tinted fog lamps and mud flaps are on the car because they were integral to the original, as is the lack of a rear spoiler (something the GT86 comes with as standard).

"With this Initial D concept we not only acknowledge how important the AE86 was in influencing Toyota's modern approach to sports cars but also demonstrate how the GT86 can be aesthetically and dynamically improved with relatively simple aftermarket accessories," said Joe Clifford from the special projects team. "But perhaps most of all, we just thought it was an achingly cool idea."

Since its launch in 2012 the GT86, also sold as a ScionFR-S and as the Subaru BZR, has been a huge hit with keen drivers of all ages. Jeremy Clarkson, presenter for TV program "Top Gear" from 2002 to 2015, declared it his favourite car of the year and it has been fully embraced by the customisation and tuning community to the extent that it is always one of the most popular cars at SEMA. But that is something that Toyota always hoped would happen when the company started designing the car.

"Right from the start, the Toyota GT86 was developed as a car that would appeal to enthusiasts, whether in standard trim or as an exploitable base for further modifications," said Clifford.


First Bugatti Baby II prototype to mark 110th anniversary

                PARIS: Bugatti today revealed the first Bugatti Baby II prototype at the brand’s 110th anniversary in Molsheim.

Earlier this year, at the 2019 Geneva Motor Show, Bugatti had revealed the re-imagining of the iconic Bugatti Baby as a 3D printed model. It captured the imagination of automotive enthusiasts around the world, and the limited edition run of 500 cars sold out within three weeks.

To design the Baby II, Bugatti has partnered with The Little Car Company to produce the greatest junior car ever created. After months of development, the Bugatti Baby II has now reached the point where the first prototype, named XP1 was ready for test drives by VIPs at La Grande Fête in Molsheim.

Based on the iconic Bugatti Type 35, the Baby II combines the playfulness of the original Baby, re-imagined with 21st century technology. To allow the Baby II to be driven by both adults and children, it has grown from the 50% scale of the original to a 75% scale replica of the Type 35, and includes a sliding pedal box for drivers young and old.

So, while the original 500 Babys could be a tight squeeze for even the smallest children, the Baby II allows parents and grandparents to share the love of driving with their children and grandchildren.

The Baby II has been designed to be fun to drive from the start. The rear wheel drive powertrain comes with two selectable power modes for drivers of different experience: a 1kW ‘child mode’ with the top speed limited to 20 km/h, and a 4kW ‘adult mode’ with the top speed limited to 45 km/h.

In addition, for those enthusiasts who crave even more pace, some versions come with a ‘Speed Key’ just like its big brother, the Chiron, which allows power of up to 10kW and disengages the speed limiter. Fortunately there is a Limited Slip Differential to help drivers make the most of the torque available at the rear wheels.

As standard the car will be painted in French Racing Blue with a black leather interior, but other colour options will be available for both the exterior and interior. These include the opportunity to have your Baby II painted in the same solid contemporary colours as the Chiron, or alternatively there is a selection of vintage colours, each dedicated to a famous driver or event from the history of Bugatti.

The car will come with two sizes of removable battery, a standard 1.4 kWh pack and a long- range 2.8 kWh version. While exact range will depend on driving style, the larger pack is expected to give a range of more than 30km.

In addition, all owners of Baby IIs will receive membership of The Little Car Club, and be able to attend events where they, their children and their grandchildren can drive their cars at famous motor racing circuits.

Prices start at €30,000 or RM139,000 (plus taxes and delivery) and production starts at the beginning of 2020. The car will be manufactured by the Little Car Company in the UK, and all 500 cars will be produced over the course of 2020 and 2021.

Whilst all 500 Bugatti Baby IIs sold out within three weeks of the Geneva Motor Show announcement, it is still possible for customers to join the reserve list should a prospective buyer pull out, or to get the first notification of any future models. For more details, go to www.bugattibaby.com


Lamborghini Lounge opens in Tokyo

                TOKYO: Automobili Lamborghini has announced the opening of The Lounge Tokyo in the exclusive residential area of Roppongi, the second venue of its kind after New York.

It features a permanent Ad Personam studio where clients ordering cars can fully personalize every aspect of their new Lamborghini’s exterior and interior colour and trim.

The Lounge Tokyo’s ground floor provides the first entrée into Lamborghini lifestyle, as well as being the venue for personalized handovers to owners of their new Lamborghini. The second and third floors offer event and meeting locations for both business and private occasions.

The venue will also open to the public for special activities such as exhibitions or art shows.

Katia Bassi, Chief Marketing & Communication Officer of Automobili Lamborghini says: ‘‘We created this lounge because we are designers of experience, and we want guests to enjoy the real Italian Lamborghini feeling in this space: a little of Sant’Agata Bolognese soul in the heart of Tokyo."

The inaugural exhibition sees a collaboration between Lamborghini and world-renowned fashion designer Yohji Yamamoto.

The lounge offers the perfect setting to present an Aventador S ‘‘dressed’’ by Yohji Yamamoto, alongside a co-branded capsule collection comprised of three unique pieces: mod coat, bomber jacket and hoodie sweatshirt.

The correlation in brand values between Lamborghini and Yohji Yamamoto was clear and the collaboration was born.

Mitja Borkert comments: “It has been exciting to have the chance to work with Yohji Yamamoto, who innately understood our significant Lamborghini design DNA. Our collaboration inspired this outstanding artwork and design for the Aventador S celebrates Italian craftsmanship connecting with Japanese culture.”

Yohji Yamamoto says: “Lamborghini super sports cars are more instantly recognizable than any other car manufacturer - just one glance is enough. I am delighted to see the realization of this collaboration, highlighting the uniqueness, the timelessness, and the abundant passion, which are characteristic of both our brands.”


Bentley shows off Nasa-inspired 'gigapixel' image

LONDON: Bentley unveiled on Tuesday a “gigapixel” image, featuring the new Mulsanne Extended Wheelbase crossing San Francisco’s Golden Gate bridge.

The image was created using technology originally developed by Nasa to enable Mars rovers to take exploratory panoramic photographs. Viewers can use an innovative, interactive zoom function to travel from 700 metres out all the way into the Mulsanne’s cabin – right down to the 4,500 individual stitches in the embroidered “Winged B” headrest logo.

An incredible 4,425 times larger than a typical smartphone image, this extraordinary photograph is made up of 53 billion pixels (or 53,000 megapixels). It was created by taking 700 individual shots from the same location and “stitching” them together digitally. The result, if reproduced in standard print format, would be the size of a football field.

Bentley created the shot to capture both the detailing of the Mulsanne and the scale of our brand’s ambitions, said Bentley board member for sales and marketing Kevin Rose.

EXPLORE NOW (external site)

Designed for chauffeur-driven customers, the Mulsanne Extended Wheelbase in Rose Gold over Magnetic duo-tone featured in the gigapixel shot offers a first-class air-travel experience for the road.

The 250mm extension of the Mulsanne’s wheelbase (from 3,266mm up to 3,516mm) enlarges the space for rear-seat passengers.

To exploit the extra space, Bentley came up with airline-style electronic legrests which are built into the bases of the two rear seats. These extend outward and pivot, affording rear-seat passengers the luxury of choice between upright, relaxed and reclined seating positions.

An attractively appointed console separates the two rear seats in the Mulsanne Extended Wheelbase. It houses practical features such as USB ports, pen holders, cup holders and a glass-covered stowage area.

For passengers who want to work on the move, both rear seats can also be specified with a deployable, folding table. For privacy, electric curtains at the rear are standard fitment and can be tailored with either a black or champagne coloured interior lining.

Rear-seat passengers also benefit from a large-format sunroof over the rear cabin. Controlled by the passengers or the driver, the tilting and sliding glass panel (with Alcantara sun blind) allows natural light to flood into the Mulsanne’s beautifully appointed cabin and clearly reinforces the Extended Wheelbase’s focus on the rearward passenger.

For additional differentiation and choice, customers are able to specify their cars in a wide range of duo-tone exterior paint combinations, such as the Rose Gold over Magnetic seen in the gigapixel image, and with a beautiful new 21” wheel.


Hyundai reveals European i30 N Line specs

                FRANKFURT: Hyundai has just released extensive details on its new "warm" version of the i30, the i30 N Line, a model that will narrow the gap between the regular i30 and the recently-introduced i30 N.

The new trim level takes some of the more aggressive styling elements of the full-fat i30 N performance model and adds them to an i30 with the most powerful engine from the regular lineup.

For some, this could be the "Goldilocks" i30: not fast and furious as the i30 N, but also a little livelier than the standard model.

Instead of a new engine, the i30 N Line inherits the most powerful unit from the regular lineup, which is a 138bhp 1.4-litre T-GDi petrol. If that's a little too thirsty for your liking the new model is also available with a 134bhp 1.6 CRDi diesel.

Most, though not all, features that mark this model out from lesser i30s are aesthetic. The smart new bumpers are heavily influenced by those on the i30 N, and the car also gets 18-inch alloy wheels as part of the standard equipment.

At the back are the twin-exhaust pipes that are more or less obligatory for this type of car, and there are N Line badges on the wings, a gesture to the car's sportier credentials.

There are some enhancements genuinely aimed at delivering a sporty persona to the N-Line, such as a sportier chassis set-up than the standard-range, larger front brake discs and a set of Michelin Pilot Sport 4 tyres.

Buyers can choose from two different grades of N Line i30: N Line and the more opulent N Line+. The more expensive + version adds a heated steering wheel, leather and suede seats with a memory-function driver's seat, an electrically-adjustable lumbar support passenger seat, dual-zone climate control and automatic windscreen wipers.

Hyundai Europe's marketing and product boss Andreas-Christoph Hofmann credits the introduction of the new N Line to the success of the i30 N. He explains: "Now we are extending that feeling to a wider audience with the new i30 N Line. We believe the comprehensive package of design and engineering enhancements will continue to attract more new customers to the Hyundai brand in Europe."

The i30 N Line and N Line+ go on sale across Europe later this summer, with prices starting from €23,785 (RM113,000).


Govt dismisses rumours VEP would be scrapped

                JOHOR BARU: The Government does not plan to scrap the Vehicle Entry Permit (VEP) for foreign cars, saying it will fine-tune the system to prevent any hiccups.

Transport Minister Datuk Seri Liow Tiong Lai, who disclosed this, maintained that the VEP was not discriminatory and would first be enforced on cars entering Singapore and later from Thailand, Brunei and Kalimantan.

“Please do not listen to rumours and speculate on the date of implementation. I apologise to the Johor government as they want it to be implemented as soon as possible but we need some time to make sure there are no hiccups,” he told reporters after the opening of the new RM48mil Johor Port Authority building here by Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin yesterday.

Asked if there was a deadline set for the introduction of the VEP, he said: “Please give us some time to make sure everything is in order ... maybe in a month or two.”

He said testing of the system was ongoing, adding that he had directed round-the-clock checks instead of just during the day.

So far, more than 120,000 Singapore-registered cars have signed up online for VEP.


Aston Martin drops plans to put electric Rapide E into production, says report

                LONDON: Aston Martin has cancelled its plans to put the all-electric Rapide E into production despite pre-orders for the model having opened back in April.

A few months shy of a year following the Aston Martin Rapide E's world debut at Auto Shanghai 2019, sources close to the brand told Autocar last Friday that the company no longer plans to put the electric model into production.

This news comes months after Aston Martin opened pre-orders for the model -- 155 were expected to be built. Now, according to Autocar, the Rapide E will "become a research project used to further Aston's broader electrification program, with no intention of producing customer cars."

The company has not yet issued an official statement on the news. It is unknown how many of the 155 models were reserved and what the official customer price was. Rather than launching this EV, the company is said to be focusing on the launch of its first SUV.

The first deliveries of this model, the DBX, are expected to begin during the second quarter of this year.


2016 Beijing Auto Show: Ladies of the Auto Fair

                BEIJING: China is the world's largest vehicle market, with sales of 21.15 million passenger cars and 3.45 million commercial vehicles in 2015.

The Auto China show, which alternates yearly between Beijing and Shanghai, is among the top-ranked auto shows globally.

Showgirls at the motor show were among the highlights, but this time, in line with the increasingly sophisticated tastes of Chinese car buyers, the scantily-clad models are no longer seen.

Instead, as with other top-ranked motor shows, the brand ambassadors are rather demure and sweet-looking, and are dressed fashionably in a way that is not going to raise the blood pressure of hot-blooded men.


BMW readies new M4 DTM contender to bang wheels with Super GT

                MUNICH: The motorheads at BMW M Motorsport has built the most powerful Deutsche Tourenwagen Masters (DTM) car ever after having just revealed their new M4 DTM season challenger that's based on the new Class 1 regulations.

In accordance with the latest regulations, the 4.0-litre V8 P66 engine of last year has been done away with and instead a more powerful and fuel efficient 2.0-litre turbocharged P48 inline four-cylinder mill (with direct injection) now resides, which will allow it reach speeds of up to 300kph.

To release the power is a redesigned and shortened exhaust system and only a single pipe can only peek out on the right side underside of the car, towards the centre of the door and next to the vents. The second exhaust pipe on the left side of the car has been done away with.

Also, the mandatory weight of the new M4 DTM, when empty, is now less than 1,000kg, but must weight a minimum of 981kg without driver or fuel - this is 50kg less than last season.

This combination of more engine power and less weight means that the M4 DTM has a significantly lower weight to power ratio of 1.6 kg:1hp and should ensure that the car will be able to reach the 300kph mark along the fastest sections of the track on the DTM calendar that includes the Parabolica at the Hockenheimring.

With the new Class 1 regulations stating that there will no long be a need for a number plate, it has allows the M4 DTM's radiator grille to be optimised and the size of the intakes and cooling system to be increased - this includes the bonnet for the intercooler of the 2.0-litre turbocharged engine.

To make the M4 DTM more robust when engaging in wheel-to-wheel battles, the protrusion of the front splitter has been reduced by 90mm, while the rear diffuser has been lowered by 30mm and the start of the diffuser ramp has been moved back by 870mm.

At the rear, the M4 DTM's rear wing (as one section) has been significantly widened by 520mm - an adoption from the Japanese Super GT Championship, and still has Drag Reduction System (DRS), in the form of a pneumatic flap mechanism to reduce the amount of aerodynamic drag generated by the car.

The DRS function will be used with the newly-introduced push-to-pass function that starts this season that will allow drivers to call upon 30PS of extra engine power at the push of a button which will temporarily allow more fuel to be injected into the P48's turbo engine.

Inside, the cockpit receives a new firewall for added safety while doing away with the interior mirror and instead equipped with a rear-view camera and display.

Also, a new vent on the rear windscreen has been added to aid in cabin ventilation, but other than those mentioned, the race car's aerodynamics have remain unchanged against its predecessor in order to avoid an 'aerodynamics arms race' between manufacturers.

The Class 1 technical regulations were announced at the Norisring in June, 2018, by DTM boss Gerhard Berger and his SUPER GT counterpart Masaaki Bandoh that comes with a 'common parts' concept to help reduce real costs, while adding the aspects of greater safety and equal opportunity.

Components for nearly all areas of the car have been standardised and will be produced and distributed in both Europe and Japan to help bring costs down - allowing manufacturers the omit the need to invest heavily into design and development efforts.

However, the biggest difference concerning power plants in the new regulations was the change from last year's 4.0-litre V8s to the current 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engines that will produce somewhere around the 620hp mark - roughly 100hp more than before.

With the added power, the regulations will allow for the front aero design to be adapted in order to provide more cooling function for the engine and brakes, while the front and rear diffuser as well as the rear wing can be modified to the same standard as the current Super GT specifications.

This season (2019) will most likely see two racing series go head-to-head against each other.


Hi Proton! How it works and what to expect in the future

                SHAH ALAM: In December 2018, Malaysians were introduced to the Proton X70 sport utility vehicle with a system that came with a voice command function.

Dubbed the Global Key User Interface (GKUI), the system is able to detect and respond to the "Hi Proton" voice command which helps to improve safety by allowing drivers to keep their attention on the road ahead.

From that point, the user is able to speak various commands such as (but not limited to) navigation, weather, music and in-car control functions including climate controls as well as windows and sunroof operation.

Development
The system was initially introduced in the Geely Bo Yue (2018) and was specially catered to the Chinese market and was subsequently localised for Malaysia.

In order to achieve this, a team comprising of developers from ECARX (the China-based company responsible for developing the original GKUI), local carmaker Proton and Altel - the company responsible for the layout of the required infrastructure for the system to function in Malaysia.

One of the first key tasks was to shift the language from Mandarin Chinese to English - the preferred language for the system, with around 200 Malaysians recording the simple phrase, of "Hi Proton" in their respective accents and dialects.

In the next stage, the same group of people were asked to record 32 barge-in commands – words and sentences that awaken the system before further commands could be issued.

Each participant was asked to record each command 10 times quickly and 10 times slowly to ensure the system was able to capture the words at varying degrees of speed and pronunciation.

While Ecarx supported such efforts technologically, Proton contributed by sharing their knowledge and experience of the local terrain and culture as well as helped facilitate the involvement and subsequent contributions of local mobile network providers Celcom and Maxis.

The collaboration saw a special e-SIM was co-developed to help facilitate the use of 4G-networks from within the vehicle which allows for a two-way conversation to ensue between the car and the user.

The respective data packages also allow the car to continuously feed users with the requested navigational information as well as an almost endless supply of music via Tencent Music.

The Future
At present, the local carmaker is currently looking to include Joox music into its GKUI and could be introduced in the near future.

Another possible inclusion is Astro Radio which allows users to tune into their preferred radio station via an app instead of having to search for the station's frequency.

Apart from that, the integration of e-wallet and cashless applications is currently being examined that would allow users access to their e-wallet balances and status via the head unit.


Perodua Bezza gets top safety rating

                KAJANG: The new Perodua Bezza has received the maximum 5-star Asean NCAP safety rating, for the top-of-the-range Bezza 1.3-litre auto Advance variant fitted with dual frontal Seatbelt Reminder System (SBR) and Electronic Stability Control (ESC).

The other four Bezza variants without ESC received a 4-star rating.

ISOFIX child anchors and top tether come as standard in all Bezza variants.

Hence, in the Child Occupant Protection (COP) category, Bezza achieved a 4-star rating by achieving 85% compliance.

 Dr Wong presenting the 5-star safety rating certificate for the top Bezza version to Perodua president/CEO Datuk Aminar Rashid Salleh. Present are (from (left) Khairil, Perodua Global Manufacturing president Datuk Ahmad Suhaimi Hashim and Perodua Sales managing director Dr Zahari Husin.READ MORE:
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Perodua Bezza set to boost UMW’s earnings

Also, the Bezza comes as standard with dual frontal airbags and SBR for driver only.

New Car Assessment Program for Southeast Asian Countries (ASEAN NCAP) chairman Dr Wong Shaw Voon said, "It is the first sedan car by Perodua and it is also the first Perodua car to be installed with ESC.

Furthermore, it is also Energy Efficient Vehicle (EEV) compliant, in line with the National Automotive Policy.”

ASEAN NCAP secretary-general Khairil Anwar Abu Kassim said, “The Bezza has moved further than basic requirements by installing ESC and dual SBR for its higher variant but at an affordable price. Bezza proves that safety is affordable.”

The Bezza is priced on-the-road at RM37,300 (1.0L manual): RM39,300 (1.0L auto): RM42,800 (1.3L manual): RM44,800 (1.3L auto Premium) and RM50,800 (1.3L auto Advance).

It has a 5-year or 150,000km (whichever comes first) warranty.


Will the next Volkswagen Golf be sold as an NFT?

                WOLFSBURG: Volkswagen is jumping on the NFT bandwagon.

The German automaker announced that it will unveil its very first NFT Golf in February 2022, but not necessarily in the usual sense of a non-fungible digital token.

In fact, the carmaker is promising a new Golf, simply called NFT, for "Notably Fast Transporter."

That's all we know officially, even if the ambiguity is obviously intentional. The only picture put online by Volkswagen doesn't show any details of this new Golf.

READ MORE: In Malaysia, VW Arteon on sale as digital NFT collectibles

The teaser only suggests that it will probably be the fastest version in the range.

The other kind of NFT, the kind getting a lot of headlines in the last several months, takes the form of a unique certified digital token, which guarantees its exclusive character.

So what could Volkswagen be planning? Exclusive digital content? A fully virtual version? This would be in line with what Alpine has recently proposed. The car manufacturer has created concept cars in NFT format that can be used in a video game!

We'll have to wait until February to see what Volkswagen has in store with its NFT launch.


May 13-19: Fuel prices unchanged

                PETALING JAYA: Fuel prices will remain unchanged from May 13 to May 19, says the Finance Ministry.

In a statement today, it said that the retail price for RON97 and RON95 petrol would remain at RM2.60 and RM2.05 per litre, respectively.

The price of diesel remains unchanged at RM2.15 per litre.

The weekly fuel pricing mechanism was reintroduced on Jan 5, 2019, under the Automatic Pricing Mechanism.


Hyundai to unveil new EV concept in Geneva

                GENEVA: Hyundai will unveil its new concept EV, “Prophecy”, expressing the company’s latest design language, at the upcoming Geneva International Motor Show, on March 3, 2020.

In line with Hyundai’s “Sensuous Sportiness” design philosophy, the new concept embodies a beautiful silhouette accentuated by graceful curves flowing over broad rear flanks that provide excellent aerodynamics.

The boat-tail line created by the rear quarter panels are complemented by the integrated spoiler and pixel lamp taillights.

“”Prophecy” does not follow trends. It accentuates timeless beauty that will stand the test of time,” said SangYup Lee, Head of Hyundai Global Design Center. “Its iconic design stands to expand Hyundai’s design spectrum toward even broader horizons.”

The name “Prophecy” reflects the concept’s purpose, defining the direction of future Hyundai designs, while establishing itself as a design icon for Hyundai’s EV lineup.


Yamaha NVX introduced

                KUALA LUMPUR: Hong Leong Yamaha Motor Sdn Bhd finally unveiled the Yamaha NVX here, following a sneak preview during the 2016 Malaysian MotoGP event.

Launched with the theme “Revolution in Innovation”, the NVX is intended to take the automatic segment of the Malaysian two-wheeler market to the next level.

“The Yamaha NVX is truly an innovative addition to the Yamaha automatic model range. Wrapped in a body packed with innovative features, the NVX is poised to set a new standard in its category,” said Hong Leong Yamaha’s managing director, Datuk Jim Khor.

The scooter’s 155cc fuel-injected single-cylinder engine is liquid-cooled, and comes with variable valve actuation (VVA) to offer a lively response to make both city and long distance riding a breeze.

“Other neat features to look out for in the NVX include 14-inch rims with wide tubeless tyres, a 25-litre under seat storage compartment, twin LED headlights, as well as LED taillight and brake light,” said Khor, who added that ABS is standard equipment.

The NVX is also designed with a more sporty outlook in mind, through its sharp bodywork and graphics. “The NVX is equipped with a 5.8 inch (14.7cm) LCD display which shows the tachometer, speedometer, VVA indicator, and odometer.

Above that, its other premium attributes include a smart key system, and an engine start/stop system for better fuel efficiency,” Khor added.

Priced at RM10,500 including GST, the NVX is targeted at Malaysians who want a mid-sized stylish automatic bike with state-of-the-art features previously only found on larger capacity motorcycles.


Bikers rejoice, a maintenance-free chain has been developed

                MUNICH: BMW Motorrad has shown off an innovative chain that could considerably change the life of many bikers. Its new M Endurance chain requires less maintenance and no lubricant thanks to a new coating material.

The first two 4-cylinder models BMW S 1000 RR and S 1000 XR already offer this innovation as an option, and it will soon be made available to further models.

This new M Endurance chain gets rid of the need for chain lubricant and tension adjustments on its motorcycles, because it's made of tetrahedrally amorphous carbon (ta-C), better known as industrial diamond.

The substance is hard and resistant, eliminates friction, and therefore doesn't wear out.

The BMW press release highlights the maintenance-free aspect of this new material, and therefore its green properties. It eliminates "cleaning work that is unavoidable with a conventional chain due to splashed lubricant.

Accordingly, the M Endurance chain also offers maximum environmental friendliness."


Gadget-free ways to keep kids comfy during long car rides

                PETALING JAYA: With the long Hari Raya Aidilfitri school break ending in a few days, families are now busy preparing for their journeys back to the city. Given the expected traffic congestion with a massive number of vehicles on the road, long travel time is almost a guarantee during this time of the year.

Long journeys are already stressful on adults, what more on young, restless children. Often, parents need to prepare in advance for their journeys to make the ride comfortable and (almost) stress-free for everyone.

While it’s easy to allow a digital device to “babysit” children during the journey, these electronics-free ideas also provide the necessary activities for children to kill time.

Put together a fun kit

Packing things like stickers, colouring books, activity books and children’s favourite toys will help kids entertain themselves during the journey.

Empower them to choose what they want for the trip, and they will be more likely to enjoy those activities. You can also add new books and stickers into the pack for novelty.

Ioli Communications chief executive officer Yan Lim says she always prepares fun car ride packs for her younger children, aged nine, five and two, before embarking on long car rides.

“I pack stickers, colouring books, crayons and small toys that they currently love so they can keep themselves busy. It’s important to make sure those items can last at least half of the ride. The other half of the ride is usually spent sleeping.” she says.

Treat travel as bonding time

With all family members physically grouped together, a long car ride is the perfect opportunity to talk about many things – something urban families can’t do often given everyone’s hectic daily schedule.

Ask your young ones about their friends and their activities in school. Families can also have a car-aoke and sing-along together while in the car.

Clinic nurse Siti Sharmiza Abdul Razak, whose sons are nine and six, says she enjoys having conversations with them during car trips.

“We talk about their life and the journey’s surroundings and make up impromptu games. I also like having a sing-along with them. I think being creative during journeys makes the trip bearable – especially when you’re in the middle of a traffic congestion – and you get to bond with your children differently than when you are at home.”

 Yan packs car ride fun kits for her younger children to get them occupied when the family travels.Pack their favourite snacks

Travel-sized cookie packs, chocolates and snacks make great travelling companions for children. If you like your car to be squeaky clean, it may be time to lower your standards because well, children’s comfort matters too.

It’s best to keep beverage to water because spilt milk in a vehicle will leave an unpleasant odor that takes a while to clear. Also, always be ready with wet wipes to clean soiled fingers.

For accountant Nik Nurul Diyanah Nik Mohd Amin, whose children are ten, eight and four, having enough snacks for little ones is crucial.

“There’s not much space and activities that they can do, so bringing their favourite snacks is one of the things I do to keep them happy and occupied throughout the journey,” she says.

Create your own games

Whether it is counting cars in a certain colour, adding or subtracting the cars’ plate numbers and naming an object within sight and asking the kids to find it, your creativity is the limit when it comes to inventing engaging games during a long drive.

These games are interactive and competitive, so children will find them enjoyable. To keep them engaged, time the games and start a new one before they are bored.

For older children, word search or Scrabble work too. Besides keeping them occupied, they help with children’s vocabulary too.

Listen to audiobooks

Parents can play toddlers or children’s audiobooks during their car trips to entertain little ones. It’s almost like reading to your children, but doing so in a moving vehicle may make you dizzy so audiobooks are the next best thing.

From fairy tales to modern stories, you can also expand on these tales and discuss the stories with your children if you want the session to be more interactive.

Travel during children’s nap time

This might not work all the time for all trips, but when you can, try to coincide the journey with children’s nap times.

You can also travel right after they have had a good swim or play. This guarantees that they will sleep throughout the journey, which gives children the necessary rest time and parents, some peace and quiet as you head to your destination.


Tesla to warn of data privacy risk from car security cameras in Germany

                BERLIN: Tesla will warn that its "sentry mode", which records a car's surroundings, risks infringing data privacy laws in Germany after consumer group vzbv sued the manufacturer for failing to mention this in advertising.

The case is the latest in a series of disputes in countries from China to the Netherlands over the cameras in Tesla cars, which the company says are to protect from theft or vandalism but authorities worry lead to filming without consent.

The vzbv lawsuit filed last July alleged that the carmaker was misleading consumers by not informing them in advertising that the driver could be violating data protection regulation if the feature was used in public spaces and filmed passers-by without their knowledge.

After a hearing on the case in Berlin, the company issued a cease-and-desist declaration stating it would no longer advertise that way, according to a statement by vzbv.

Tesla could not immediately be reached for comment.

The carmaker's manual for buyers in the U.S. states that "it is your sole responsibility to consult and comply with all local regulations and property restrictions regarding the use of cameras."

A spokesman for Berlin's data protection agency said that the person driving the car is responsible for turning off the cameras in public spaces. Responsibility would extend to the company if images were transmitted to and stored by Tesla, the spokesman added.

The personal data watchdog in the Netherlands drew a similar conclusion in February, attributing responsibility for filming to the driver.


Aston Martin celebrates grand opening of Q New York flagship store

                NEW YORK: Aston Martin has opened its first global flagship store here.

It marked the opening of Q New York with a grand celebration at the venue on 450 Park Avenue in Manhattan.

Celebrating the British brand’s 110th anniversary, guests in attendance included New York Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers, American actresses Zoey Deutch and Gabrielle Union, and British mezzo-soprano Katherine Jenkins OBE. Guests were greeted to a cocktail reception at Q New York with an exclusive DJ set from British-born, New York City-based, Isabella Massenet.

Amongst the celebrations, the world’s first Super Tourer made its North American premiere, with the DB12 unveiled for the first time in the brand’s largest commercial market.

In the week of North America’s second Formula One race of the season in Canada – the home race for Aston Martin Aramco Cognizant Formula One Team driver Lance Stroll – Aston Martin’s AMR23 car was also on display, allowing New Yorkers to get a closer look at the track car, which has propelled the British team to third in the Constructors’ Championship.

Located on one of the most prominent corners of Midtown Manhattan, the new location brings the company’s bespoke service, Q by Aston Martin, to North America for the first time.

The new store will serve as a showcase and launch venue for Aston Martin’s latest products, from special builds to limited-edition models and newcomers to Aston Martin’s portfolio.

Q New York offers a blend of digital and physical car configuration. As part of a custom-made appointment, customers will be able to visualise their personalised Aston Martin on a 10.5 metre x 3.5 metre LED wall capable of providing a 360-degree view of any Aston Martin in real-life size.

Use of Near-Field Communication (NFC) technology will facilitate specifications, allowing customers to combine the sensorial touch and feel of physical colour and trim samples with live configuration on screen.

A live video link from Manhattan to Aston Martin’s design studio in Gaydon, UK, enables real-time communication with the brand’sdesigners and the Q by Aston Martin team, providing a customised experience available outside of a personal visit to the headquarters.

A concierge experience, high-end dining and overnight travel experiences will also be available for those seeking to extend the experience of creating their own Aston Martin.

“The opening of our first flagship Q location, in our largest commercial market, is the latest distinct expression of Aston Martin’s shift to an ultra-luxury brand," said Aston Martin executive chairman Lawrence Stroll.

"It demonstrates our ambition to drive global growth and create elevated customer experiences to match our owners’ passion for Aston Martin."


Hyundai recalls over 390,000 vehicles in North America for possible engine fires

The 2013 Santa Fe. The largest recall covers more than 203,000 units of the SUV produced from 2013 through 2015.
DETROIT: Hyundai is recalling more than 390,000 vehicles in the US and Canada for two problems that can cause engine fires.

In one recall, owners are being told to park their vehicles outdoors until repairs are made.

The largest recall covers more than 203,000 Santa Fe Sport SUVs from 2013 through 2015. Some are being recalled a second time. Brake fluid can leak into the anti-lock brake computer, causing an electrical short that can lead to fires.

Owners should park outdoors and away from structures until the problem is fixed, according to documents posted Tuesday by the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Dealers will replace a fuse and replace the computer if necessary. Owners will be notified in June.

The brake computer problem has caused 18 fires in the US, but no injuries, according to documents.

Hyundai says the recall "enhances the remedy” from one issued in September of 2020.

The company says it kept investigating after the September recall and found that replacing the fuse would reduce the safety risk.

"Hyundai is conducting this new recall to ensure the safety of its customers,” the company said in a statement.

The other recall covers nearly 187,000 2019 and 2020 Elantras, and 2019 through 2021 Konas and Velosters. All have 2-liter engines.

The piston rings may not have been properly heat-treated, which can cause engine damage, oil leaks and possible fires. Hyundai says the rings can be too hard and can be chipped, scuffing the engine cylinder. The piston problem has caused five fires but no injuries, according to documents.

Dealers will inspect and replace the engine if necessary. They'll also install piston noise sensing software. Owners will be notified in late June.

Engine failure and fire problems at Hyundai and affiliated Korean automaker Kia have plagued the companies for more than five years, affecting the owners of more than 8 million vehicles.

Last month, Kia recalled over 147,000 2020 and 2021 Soul and Seltos SUVs due to the piston ring problem. The automaker said it had four reports of fires potentially related to the issue.


2019 Bangkok Motor Show: Show girls

                BANGKOK: Leggy and beautiful show girls who tirelessly preen and pose for the cameras are part of the Bangkok International Motor Show, and the 2019 edition does not disappoint.

Here is a selection of the "eye candy" adorning the vehicles on display at the motor show, which opens its doors from 27 March to 7 April 2019 at Impact Challenger, Muang Thong Thani.

The 12-day motor show expects to welcome at least as many visitors (1,620,000 people in 2018) as last year.


Classic Mini gets electrified ahead of production EV

                NEW YORK: Mini has unveiled an electric version of its iconic "Classic" model ahead of the New York Auto Show, which opens to the public today. This one-off Classic Mini Electric concept comes ahead of a production Mini Electric vehicle, due by 2019.

Since Mini presented its fully electric concept in Frankfurt in 2017, a production model has been on the cards for 2019, in time for the 60th anniversary of British automotive brand, now owned by BMW. In the meantime, Mini is keeping fans keen at the New York Auto Show with a surprising electric version of its most iconic model, bridging the brand's past and future.

From the outside, this red and white car has the look of the iconic Mini. However, a little yellow "Mini Electric" logo reveals that this version is, in fact, an electric vehicle. The manufacturer states that, in true Mini tradition, the electric motor's acceleration maintains the unmistakable go-kart feel when driving. This one-off model is not for sale.

Mini's upcoming 100% electric production model is still in development and is based on a three-door Mini.

In 2008, Mini presented a prototype called "Mini E," which gave rise to 500 production models between 2009 and 2010.


Bosch and Microsoft team up to develop vehicle software platform

                BERLIN: Bosch will work with Microsoft on a software platform for vehicles, it said on Thursday, as it strives to get a foot in the door to the fast-growing market for electromobility and automated driving technologies.

By using cloud technology, the software platform will ensure that vehicles’ control units and computers can get software throughout their life time, the German auto supplier said.

The technology is based on Microsoft Azure and includes software modules from Bosch, it said, adding that they plan to use the software platform in vehicle prototypes by the end of 2021.

“We are thus creating the conditions for wireless updates to work just as smoothly and conveniently on vehicles as they do on smartphones,” said Bosch managing director Markus Heyn.

The companies will also cooperate to adapt existing software tools to let automakers and suppliers to simplify and accelerate their own software updates.

Last week, German carmaker Volkswagen AG announced a similar cooperation with Microsoft to use its cloud computing services to help it streamline its software development efforts for self-driving cars.


Proton dealers test drive Geely Boyue in Shanghai

                SHANGHAI: Proton took its top dealers to visit Geely in China recently in a bid to share how Geely dealers operate their centres in Shanghai.

The trip consisted of 28 top PROTON sales and service center owners, accompanied by Proton officials and a representative from a financial institution.

The national car maker has recently urged its dealers and service center operators to upgrade their facilities in preparation for the new Proton models which will be introduced next year.

The trip exposed them to a Geely dealer in Shanghai and for many, it was their first trip to China where a car dealer actually opened up its doors for the Malaysians to learn and study their daily operation and the Proton dealers are highly impressed with the success of Geely in its native country.

Ryan Lai, director for LHM One Stop, a Proton 4S outlet in Nilai said that he was pretty much awed with the level of customer service that the Geely outlet provided for Geely car owners.

"The service has a waiting lounge that does not look out of place in a 5-star hotel! Usually, the atmosphere can only be experienced by European premium car owners but Geely is offering it to their customers," said Ryan.

READ MORE:

2017 Geely Boyue: Quick test drive in Ningbo

Geely Auto: Carsifu visits Geely's Shanghai facilties

Geely group's remarkable rise via tech takeovers

Dealers were also invited to test drive the Geely Boyue which will be introduced in Malaysia soon.

"I was sceptical at first but from the moment I sat inside the Boyue, I knew this is the right vehicle for Proton’s new image," Ryan explained.

His view was also shared by Susan Leong from Hoi Keen Service in Kuantan.

Hoi Keen runs a Proton service center and also a body and paint shop for the brand.

"It has a luxurious interior and felt very premium for its segment," said Susan.

A veteran in the industry, Datuk Shamshudin of Pantai Bharu with a Proton 4S centre in Jalan Meru expressed his confidence in Proton and Geely.

"The synergy is there and the Boyue will definitely make a big impact in Malaysia," said Shamshudin.

The dealers also got the opportunity to visit Geely Research Institute and showcased the group's current technology and future designs.

Shamshudin, Ryan and Susan have together announced openly that their company will be investing millions into expanding their Proton outlets.

"This trip has really opened up our eyes to what Proton will achieve in the near future."

"We will be investing in Proton brand because we have seen what the future is for Proton. It is bright," said Ryan.


Uber resumes testing for autonomous cars in 'manual mode'

Uber suspended its autonomous driving testing in several locations in the United States after the March accident in Arizona that killed a pedestrian. — AFP
SAN FRANCISCO: Uber said Tuesday it was taking the first step towards restarting its autonomous ridesharing programme, putting its self-driving cars back on the road in "manual mode," with a driver at the wheel at all times.

The ridesharing giant said its specially equipped vehicles would be back in service for the first time since it suspended tests following a fatal accident in Arizona.

"We're starting with cars in manual mode, with a mission specialist sitting behind the wheel and manually controlling the vehicle at all times," Uber said in a statement announcing the new testing in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

"While we are eager to resume testing of our self-driving system, we see manual driving as an important first step in piloting these safeguards."

The testing will enable Uber to gather data on different scenarios that will be recreated in computer simulations, and also develop more accurate mapping for the vehicles.

Uber suspended its autonomous driving testing in several locations in the United States after the March accident in Arizona that killed a pedestrian.

The National Transportation Safety Board said in a preliminary report in May that the car's sensors detected the pedestrian six seconds ahead of the crash but failed to activate emergency braking.

The NTSB said Uber's engineers had disabled an automatic emergency braking system "to reduce the potential for erratic vehicle behavior."

The pedestrian was dressed in dark clothing and was pushing a bicycle that had no side reflectors when she crossed a unlit section of roadway.

Uber said that in the new tests in Pittsburgh, the self-driving vehicles will have a driver-monitoring system "to help ensure mission specialists remain attentive behind the wheel."

The system will send an audible alert if it detects driver distraction.

Uber said its automated collision avoidance systems will remain enabled during manual driving - activating emergency braking when it detects a potential accident.


S. Africa's auto industry could lose 10% of workforce, says survey

A worker walking near a row of cars at Nissan's plant in Rosslyn, outside Pretoria in this 2009 file pic. — Reuters
JOHANNESBURG: South Africa’s auto industry might have to lay off up to 10% of its workforce because of a three-week lockdown, according to an industry-wide survey by the National Association of Automobile Manufacturers of South Africa.

The survey, dated April 8, estimated the 21-day national lockdown could lead to job losses of between 1% and 10%, which could rise to between 21% and 30% if it is extended until the end of May.

It was submitted on Wednesday to the government, which issued the same questionnaire to a range of industries to gauge the impact of the lockdown or any extension as it grapples with close to 1,900 coronavirus cases and a shrinking economy.

Almost one-third of the country is already unemployed.

The government considers the automotive industry its most important manufacturing sector and that it is central to reviving South Africa’s flagging economy via industrialisation.

Companies range from the local units of global automakers, such as Nissan and Ford, and component manufacturers to tiny panel beaters and informal workers.

Neither Nissan, Ford nor South Africa’s Department of Trade and Industry had an immediate comment.

The survey, compiled by the auto association's CEO Mike Mabasa, covers the entire automotive industry which, it said, employs 468,000 people.

The vast majority of those jobs are in the retail sector. Manufacturing accounts for around 110,000 of the jobs, the survey said.

It also estimated that only 51% to 60% of the industry’s payroll will be paid at the end of April, and between 11% and 20% of small or medium-sized businesses could close.

Estimated potential SME closures rose to between 21% and 30% in a lockdown ending May 8 or at the end of May, according to the survey, which only provides a rough estimate of the aggregate impact on the industry as a whole.

“It is anticipated that new vehicle sales will decline by more than 50% in April 2020 under the current 21-day lockdown,” a response to one question in the survey stated.

Should the lockdown period be extended, new vehicle sales and exports could both decline by more than 80%, with the industry’s major export markets also shut down and the movement of people and goods restricted, it said.


BMW 1 Series (F40) ready for debut, changed to front-wheel drive

                MUNICH: BMW is set to introduce its third-generation 1 Series (F40) with front-wheel drive architecture and promises "driving pleasure" along with a significant increase in cabin space.

The main reason for the switch from rear-wheel drive to front-wheel is to improve the amount of space available to passengers. BMW said that despite being roughly as long as its predecessor at 4.32 metres, the car offers more space inside on all seats.

After five long years of development, the German carmaker has earmarked June 25 to 27 for the F40's official unveiling at BMW Welt in Munich, Germany.

This will be followed by its international debut during the upcoming IAA event in Frankfurt am Main on Sept 28.

In comparison to the second generation (F20/21) the new 1 Series has a wheelbase of 2,670mm (-20mm) and measures in at 4,319mm-long (-5mm), 1,799mm-wide (+34mm) and 1,434mm-tall (+13mm).

Both front and rear track are an even 1,565mm while ground clearance stands at 153mm.

Externally, it features larger kidney grilles on the sporty single-frame bumper which are flanked by more slanted headlight housings (optional - LED headlights) and the rear LED light clusters are now much more slender.

Inside, the cabin is provided with a newly designed instrument panel, backlit trim strips fully-digital instrument cluster with BMW Operating System 7.0 (optional - BMW Live Cockpit Professional).

Also included are heads-up display, BMW intelligent Personal Assistant, BMW Gesture Control and an optional Digital Key which allows the vehicle to be locked and unlocked via a smartphone as well as allow the engine to start once the smartphone is placed in the dedicated tray.

Rear-seated passengers now benefit from 33mm of added knee room as well as larger rear doors for easier ingress and egress.

In total, there will be four equipment lines available, starting with Advantage, Sport Line, Luxury Line and M Sport.

The F40 is made available in five variants - two of which are petrol powered and the rest are oil-burners with an all-wheel-drive option for both fuel options.

The variants include the 118i, M135i xDrive, 116d, 118d and 120d xDrive.

The 118i is powered by a 1,499cc turbocharged three-cylinder engine - fed by a 42-litre fuel tank, that is able to produce 140hp from 4,200 to 6,500rpm and 220Nm of torque from 1,480 to 4,600rpm.

Depending on market, it will have either a six-speed manual or a seven-speed Steptronic dual-clutch transmission married to the 1.5-litre powerplant that can accept a minimum of RON91 and uses 5.0 to 5.7 litres per 100km on the combined cycle.

The 118i is able to sprint from 0 to 100kph in 8.5 seconds before reaching a top speed of 213kph with a rather impressive 0.26Cd drag coefficient.

Behind the 60:40 split rear backrests (optional - 40:20:40 split) is a 380-litre (+20 litres) boot that's expandable to 1,200 litres.

It comes with BMW EfficientDynamics standard features, such as brake energy regeneration with recuperation display, electric power steering, auto start-stop function, optimum shift indicator, ECO PRO mode with coasting function (with automatic transmission), optimised aerodynamic attributes, active air flap control, on-demand operation of ancillary units, map-regulated oil pump, differential with optimised warm-up behaviour.

The 1,365kg (kerb) luxury compact rides on single-joint spring strut axle in lightweight aluminium-steel construction for the front and a multi-link axle in lightweight steel construction with separate spring and damper configuration for the rear.

An M Sport adaptive suspension is also available as an added cost option.

It rolls 16x7J-inch wheels with 205/55 series tyres that partially hide the front and rear single-piston floating callipers that bite down on the ventilated disc brakes.

Directional changes are handled by the Electric Power Steering (EPS) system with Servotronic function and there's an option to change out the standard steering wheel for a more sportier one from M Sport.

As standard, the 118i comes with driving stability systems such as dynamic stability control, anti-lock braking system, automatic stability control and dynamic traction control.

This also includes actuator contiguous wheel slip limitation, dynamic brake control, dry braking function, brake-fade compensation, Start-Off Assistant, electronic differential lock control, performance control and trailer stability control.

For added safety, there are six airbags, crash sensors and a tyre defect indicator.

The heavier M135i xDrive at 1,525kg, on the other hand, gets a more powerful 1,998cc turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 306hp from 4,500 to 6,250rpm and 450Nm of torque from 1,750 to 5,000rpm.

The 2.0-litre engine - requiring a minimum of RON95, gets fed by a larger 50-litre fuel tank with fuel economy rated from 6.8 to 7.1 litres per 100km on the combined cycle.

With an eight-speed Steptronic Sport transmission mated to the more powerful engine, 0 to 100kph sprint times drop to 4.8 seconds and top speed has been electronically limited to 250kph.

Other differences include a sportier M Sport electromechanical steering with Servotronic function, larger 18x8J lightweight alloys with 225/40 series tyres, narrow track widths at 1,560m (front) and 1,563mm (rear) as well as more drag at 0.34Cd.

As for the diesel variants, the 116d has the same drag coefficient, wheel and tyre combination, drag coefficient as well as front and rear track widths at the 118i.

The 116d's powerplant is a 1,496cc three-cylinder turbodiesel - fed by same 42-litre fuel tank found in the 116i, puts out 116hp from 2,250 to 4,000rpm and 270Nm of torque from 1,750 to 4,000rpm.

With either a six-speed manual or seven-speed Steptronic dual-clutch transmission, the 116d is able to sprint from 0 to 100kph in 10.3 seconds and onwards to a top speed of 200kph while fuel consumption is rated at 3.8 to 4.2 litres per 100km.

The 118d uses a 1,995cc four-cylinder turbodiesel engine, fed by 42-litre fuel tank as well, to provide 150hp from 2,500 to 4,000 and 350Nm of torque from 1,750 to 4,000rpm.

With the same transmission as the 118i and 116d, it gets from 0-100kph in 8.4 TO 8.5 seconds and has a top speed of 216 to 218kph and a fuel consumption rating of 4.1 to 4.4 litres per 100km on the combined cycle.

The 120d xDrive, on the other hand, has a front and rear track width of 1,561mm and a 0.27Cd drag coefficient.

Power comes from the same engine under the 18d's hood, only with a different tune and an upsized fuel 50-litre fuel tank to produce 190hp from 2,500 to 4,000rpm and 400Nm of torque from 1,750 to 4,000rpm.

The eight-speed automatic transmission manages power delivery to all four 17x7J lightweight alloy wheels with 225/45 series tyres to send it from 0 to 100kph in 7.0 seconds and onwards to a top speed of 230kph while consuming 4.5 to 4.7 litres per 100km on the combined cycle.


BMW Shorties 2017: 10 finalists from 90 submissions

                KUALA LUMPUR: The BMW Shorties, Malaysia’s most prestigious and longest running short film competition has selected 10 finalists from a total of 90 submissions for the year 2017, continuing its success in growing more talents in the local film making industry.

Han Sang Yun, managing director and CEO of BMW Group Malaysia said, “Over 11 years, the BMW Shorties program has had the esteemed opportunity of not only shaping the local film making industry but also meeting the emerging needs and challenges of the change in digital and social media, where the elements of storytelling and framing of content are crucial in the medium of communication. The program has been very successful in identifying and supporting new talents for the future of the industry as well as inspire creativity and drive innovation in the medium.”

Judging this year’s competition is a line-up of Malaysia’s top and notable film making virtuosos which comprises award-winning creative producer, Nandita Solomon; up-and-coming film maker and screenwriter, Nadira Ilana; scriptwriter and actor, Redza Minhat; award-wining film makers Ho Yuhang and Tan Chui Mui.

Nandita Solomon, who has sat on the BMW Shorties judging panel for several years, said, “For all the years I’ve contributed as a judge in the competition, this year specifically was challenging due to the different portrayal and interpretation of film making by the participants. Their diversity in style and storytelling demanded a critical deliberation from the judging panel.

Nadira Ilana, who joins the judging board for the second time, commented, “As I was a part of the panel last year, this time around I had a more focused approach in attending to the films submitted. I must say that our local talents continue to impress me with their creativity and innovation, evidently so from their work. It was very refreshing to see passion portrayed through bold storytelling in the film entries. This proves the abundance of creative talents out there, and through a platform like the BMW Shorties, it gives them the support to mark their legacies in the art of film creation for the long run.”

One of the 10 finalists will win the grand prize award of a RM 75,000 production grant alongside promising prospects in the filmmaking industry. Other accolades for filmmaking potentials include Best Director, Best Actor, Best Actress, Best Screenplay, Best Cinematography, Best Production Design, Best Editing and Best Sound Design, as well as the ever popular People’s Choice Award.

The 10 finalists’ short films are up to contend for the People’s Choice Award which opens for public voting, from November 14 to December 14, 2017 on www.bmwshorties.com.my.

The BMW Shorties 2017 Finalists (in alphabetical order) are:

After Tango by New Chun Hui
Desakan Dewasa by Johanna Johan Ariffin
Gold! There’s gold in the river by Mallory Lee
Livornia by Shaurin Zainurin
Never Was The Shade by Lim Kean Hian
Sekunder by Wan Mohd Shafiq
Selam 2.0 by Lor Yew Mien
The Last 7 by Jared Lee Wei Sheong
Touch by Chong Kah Man & Lim Poh Yun
The Road to God by Mohd Jefri Samaroon

The BMW Shorties 2017 Supporting Award nominees in alphabetical order are:Best Director

New Chun Hui for After Tango
Lor Yew Mien for Selam 2.0
Lim Kean Hian for Never Was The Shade

Best Cinematography

Gold! There is gold in the river! by Thng Wai Fong
Never Was the Shade by Jason Wong
Selam 2.0 by Khairil M Bahar

Best Screenplay

After Tango by New Chun Hui
Desakan Dewasa by Johanna Johan Ariffin
Never Was The Shade by Lim Kean Hian & Rozie Rashid

Best Production Design

Sekunder by Kirin Muhamad
Selam 2.0 by Mohamad Rabani Abdul Hamid
The Last 7 by Michael Lourdes

Best Sound Design

Sekunder by Syazana Nadira
Selam 2.0 by Ashwin Gobinath
The Last 7 by Warren Santiago

Best Editing

After Tango by Dixon Yoong
Never Was The Shade by Wong Kai Yun
Sekunder by Directed by Ammar Aizad

Best Actor

Desakan Dewasa by Bront Palarae
Never Was The Shade by Steve Yap
Sekunder by Hasnul Rahmat

Best Actress

Sekunder by Livonia Ricky
Selam 2.0 by Ameera Ramlee
Selam 2.0 by Yuna Rahim


Ferrari boss confident of keeping lead even with switch to electric powertrains

                MILAN: Ferrari, the sports car maker synonymous with roaring petrol engines, welcomes the shift to electric powertrains and is confident of retaining its lead in the market for high performance cars, its chairman said on Monday.

The European Union last month proposed an effective ban on the sale of new petrol and diesel cars from 2035 as part of its measures to combat global warming, posing a challenge to automakers that have made powerful engines a key selling point.

But Ferrari chairman and acting CEO John Elkann told analysts today the company known for its "Prancing Horse" logo saw the change in technology as an opportunity.

"We see the regulation as welcome," Elkann said, as Ferrari stuck to its main 2021 targets after reporting second-quarter core profits just ahead of expectations.

"The opportunity set by electrification, electronics and other technologies that are coming available will allow us to make even more distinct and unique products," he said.

Elkann, the scion of Italy's Agnelli family which controls Ferrari through its investment company Exor, was speaking weeks before new CEO — technology industry veteran Benedetto Vigna — takes the helm on Sept 1.

One of Vigna's tasks could be to forge new partnerships, along the lines of Ferrari's existing tie up with Britain's Yasa, now part of Daimler, to help with the shift to an electric era, Elkann said.

"We believe that within the industry and more importantly, outside of our industry, we are going to benefit much from partnerships and joint programmes," he said.

Ferrari has pledged to launch its first all-electric car in 2025.

The company today reported a tripling in adjusted core earnings (Ebitda) for the second quarter to €386 million (RM1.9bil) as shipments recovered from pandemic-hit trading in the same period last year. That was just ahead of analysts' mean forecast of €373 million (RM1.8bil).

Ferrari increased its industrial free cash flow guidance for this year to around €450 million (RM2.2bil) from around €350 million, but left forecasts for net revenues and adjusted core earnings (Ebitda) unchanged.


Nissan on penny-pinching drive, say insiders

                BEIJING: Japan’s Nissan Motor Co has told its managers to slash non-essential spending as the automaker grapples with slumping car sales and tumbling profits, say three company sources with knowledge of the matter.

The penny-pinching drive is in place for the rest of financial year until end-March and will most likely continue into the coming business year, they said.

Managers have been told to put the kibosh on unnecessary travel, sales incentives and promotional events to “conserve every yen,” as one source put it.

Meetings that three or four people would once have traveled to attend in person, might now only have one Nissan representative, the sources said, while other gatherings and dinners have been cancelled altogether or replaced by video-conferencing.

The extensive spending cuts come in tandem with Nissan’s decision this month to order a two-day furlough for US employees Jan 2-3. There is also an effective travel ban for staff in the United States, where sales have been particularly hard hit, one source said.

While the automaker is not facing any cash crunch, the actions underscore a deepening sense of crisis at Nissan which has been rocked by the ouster of scandal-hit leader Carlos Ghosn, the departure of other top executives and strained relations with alliance partner Renault SA.

In April, it embarked on a wide-ranging turnaround plan to revive sales and boost profits but the business outlook has worsened more than anticipated, the sources said. In November, it reported 70% slide in second-quarter operating profit and cut its full-year forecast to an 11-year low.

The de facto freeze on non-essential spending is “increasingly a modus operandi at Nissan globally,” a second source said, adding: “The house is not on fire, but there’s something smoldering.”

The three sources declined to be identified as Nissan has not publicly disclosed the extent of the cuts.

A Yokohama-based Nissan spokesman said: “Given the business and operational situation we face, we’re carrying out moves to cut expenses.”

The sources stressed that the automaker had sufficient cash resources.

According to a fourth Nissan source, the automaker has good credit lines and plenty of cash, including money in China, which he said is years of accumulated profit from Nissan’s China joint-venture operations.

This week Nissan’s stock hit lows not seen since September 2011 after Jun Seki, its vice chief operating officer and a former contender for CEO, said he was leaving the firm to become the president of Nidec Corp.

The automaker today named executive officer Hideyuki Sakamoto as a candidate for the board of directors following Seki’s resignation.


Volkswagen continues to rebuild its identity with its latest electric concept car

                SHANGHAI: The I.D. Crozz is Volkswagen's third fully-electric autonomous car study and the first to adopt a crossover form factor as the brand gets ready to launch its first serious long-range affordable plug-in vehicle at the end of the decade.

VW has started from scratch in its efforts to create not just one, but an entire fleet of electric models for the future and each of the concepts it has revealed over the past 18 months has been an attempt to demonstrate the flexibility and possibilities its newly developed electric vehicle platform (the MEB) can offer in terms of vehicle type, shape and features.

The I.D. Crozz follows an electrical reimagining of the Komi microbus (the I.D.) and of the Beatle (The I.D. Buzz) and is, according to the company, the clearest conceptual demonstration yet of what the VW of the future will look like and what it will be capable of doing using this MEB platform as a base.

"If it was ever possible to make a one-hundred percent certain prediction of what the future will look like, here it is, in 2017," said Klaus Bischoff, Head of Design for the Volkswagen Brand.

"For us, the three prototypes of this new generation of zero-emission vehicles -- I.D., I.D. Buzz and I.D. Crozz -- mark the start of a design and technology revolution that is going to change individual mobility and the Volkswagen brand forever."

Though just a show car, making its global debut at the 2017 Auto Shanghai, VW claims this vehicle has a 112mph (180kph) top speed, a maximum output of 302hp and a range of 311 miles (500km) on a single charge based on the latest European Driving Cycle criteria.

What's more, it has a smart all-wheel drive system. There are motors powering both the front and rear axles, but only the rear wheels usually turn. When more grip is needed or traction starts to fade, the front wheels come to life too.

And because it's meant to be a genuine all-terrain machine, if the driver heads off road, the all-wheel drive system can be activated manually.

"By 2025, we want to have sales of pure electric vehicles up to one million units a year. The I.D. CROZZ will play a key role in that. (Electric car) production will start in 2020," said company chairman Herbert Diess.


Myvi drivers in DUKE crash claim trial

                KUALA LUMPUR: The two Perodua Myvi drivers involved in an accident which killed a couple and their seven-month-old girl on the DUKE highway have pleaded not guilty at a magistrate’s court here.

Siti Noor Aini Mohd Said, 35, and Mohammad Fizal Reza Jamauddin, 31 were charged Friday with causing death by reckless driving under Section 41(1) of the Road Transport Act 1987.

Both pleaded not guilty to the charge.

Magistrate Noorul Fhaiez Mohd Nayan fixed bail at RM9,000 with one surety each and fixed June 22 for mention.

Deputy public prosecutors Suhaimi Ibrahim and Nadia Malek Fauzie had earlier applied for RM15,000 bail with one surety each.

Lawyer S. Prakash, who represented Siti Noor Aini and lawyer Hashim Ibrahim, who acted for Mohd Fizal, however asked for reduced bail at RM5,000 each.

The accused were ordered to surrender their passports to the court until after the case. Their driver’s licences have also been suspended.

If convicted, the duo face a minimum of two years’ jail and RM5,000 fine.

Last Saturday, 35-year-old Fairuz Nizam Husain, his wife Nova Safitri Azhari, 25, and their baby girl Nur Firuza Annisa, were killed in a crash involving three vehicles at KM6 of the DKE highway.

The tragedy resulted in a public uproar after it appeared that the Myvi drivers had been racing on the highway with several others when the accident occurred.

The Mitsubishi Pajero Sport Fairuz and his family were travelling in overturned after it was rammed into by one of the speeding Myvis, causing all three occupants to be thrown out of the four-wheel drive vehicle.

Fairuz died on the spot while his wife and daughter died at the Kuala Lumpur Hospital.

One Myvi driver escaped uninjured while the other had minor injuries.

Lawyer Cantius Leo Camoens held watching brief for the family of Fairuz at the court.
The victims’ family members were not seen in court.


Hyundai Palisade replacing Santa Fe, to debut at 2018 LA Auto Show

 The Palisade is named after an affluent US ocean-side locale which is home to a collection of mid-century modern masterpiece homes. The region also boasts of cool sea breezes, easy access to the beach, and spectacular sunsets.

LOS ANGELES: Hyundai promised a luxe three-row crossover earlier this year, and the brand is now delivering: the 2020 Palisade SUV reveal is scheduled for Nov 28.

Hyundai has revealed the name of the luxurious flagship SUV we knew was coming: the 2020 Palisade.

As we found out earlier this year, the vehicle does feature three rows; now, we know officially and specifically that the model offers eight-passenger seating designed with premium materials, intelligent technology, and generous cargo space with "modern families" in mind.

The SUV was engineered to satisfy the needs of growing families with active lifestyles. Safety and security are supported by intelligent technology integrated into the vehicle, all while offering style inspired by the picturesque beaches and bold architecture found in the Pacific Palisades; Hyundai describes this styling as, "understated" yet, "worthy of a flagship SUV."

After the 2020 Palisade is shown at the LA Auto Show, it will go on sale in summer 2019. Without official pricing or further specs, we can assume that the base will cost more than the 2019 Santa FE — the vehicle the SUV was designed to replace — which starts at US$25,500 (RM107,000).


Isuzu Malaysia launches new Elf trucks with Smoother AMT gearbox

                SETIA ALAM: Isuzu Malaysia has launched new variants of its popular Elf and Forward commercial trucks, with 6-speed Automated Manual Transmissions (AMTs) and a 19-tonne Forward variant.

The new 2019 range of Isuzu trucks will be available at all 43 authorised Isuzu truck outlets nationwide from third quarter of 2019.

Isuzu Malaysia will be offering 19 variants of the Elf commercial trucks covering 4-wheeler, 6-wheeler, 4x4 and Crew-Cab versions, giving it the widest range of light duty truck options in the market.

Selected Elf truck models will be fitted with the Smoother 6-speed Automated Manual Transmissions (AMTs).

The Smoother AMT selects the most appropriate gear for the driving condition, and thus ensures that the engine revolutions remain within its optimal range, which extends the life of the engine and drivetrain.

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Isuzu Malaysia launches 19-tonne Forward commercial truck

On the Smoother AMT models, there is a secondary Econo Mode that the driver can select to automatically change gears at lower engine revolutions, providing even greater fuel savings.

Although the price of the Smoother AMT models is higher, business owners can enjoy lower running costs as fluid coupling doesn't cause wear and tear.

Also, it will be easier to employ drivers as the pool of drivers who can handle manual transmissions is shrinking.

Drivers too will find the Smoother AMT models less tiring to operate.

The engines for the Smoother AMT models comply with the Euro 3 emission standards.

Isuzu Malaysia is also introducing three new crew cab variants to its 2019 commercial trucks line-up.

Unlike some retro-fitted after-market crew cabs that are prone to ill-fitment, Isuzu's crew cabs are designed at Isuzu's R&D centre employing the latest technologies, built and outfitted completely in the Isuzu factory - with full compliance with the highest ECE safety standards and are sold with the full Isuzu warranty.


125th anniversary Shell mineral water bottle design series launched

                PETALING JAYA: Shell in Malaysia has launched a series of limited edition Select water2go mineral water bottles as a part of ongoing celebrations for its 125th anniversary.

Designed by Malaysian artist Cheeming Boey, each bottle depicts a key milestone of the company over the years. The limited edition Select water2go bottles are priced at RM1.70 each and will be available in Peninsular Malaysia at both Shell Select and Kedai.

Boey’s six designs reflects Shell’s journey in Malaysia.

> the country’s first oil well, the Grand Old Lady of Miri in 1910;
> the Shell Traffic Games launched in 1957, which kicked-off over five decades of road safety education;
> one of the country’s first filling stations in Klang;
> the Malaysian launch of Shell V-Power in 2000;
> the launch of Welcome to Shell in 2015; and
> the research and conservation of Danum Valley.

Each design will feature characters from Boey’s book series, When I was a Kid.

“To commemorate our 125th anniversary in Malaysia, we wanted to share our history and achievements with Malaysians. Boey’s art narrates our past achievements in a fun and relatable way, allowing Malaysians to take home a little part of our history,” said Shell Retail Malaysia/Brunei general manager Shairan Huzani Husain.


Hardcore Lexus RC F Track Edition to debut at Detroit show soon

                DETROIT: Lexus will be staging the world premiere of the 2020 Lexus RC F Track Edition at the North American International Auto Show here on Jan 14. It is being touted as the most powerful Lexus offered since the LFA supercar.

The Japanese luxury car maker has been terse with its Thursday announcement, which was accompanied by a teaser photo of a giant carbon fibre wing for added downforce in a track car. However, there are already spy shots floating around that hints of a meaner track car with major performance boost.

The spy images indicate the upcoming RC F Track Edition will sport a carbon fibre bonnet with a small vent in the centre along with with a large splitter and bigger corner inlets than the existing RC F.

They also show a coupe that rides lower with wider tyres, and this certainly means the suspension settings have been revised to cope with the altered dynamics. Stopping power will also be improved as the cross-drilled brake discs and big calipers behind the V-spoke wheels suggest.

Lexus has not revealed the performance figures yet but we hazard a guess that it will be north of what the current RC F or the LC 500 offer. At present, the 5.0-litre V8 mill of the RC F produces 467hp and 529Nm of torque. The same engine in the LC 500 has been tweaked to make 4hp more and 12Nm more.

Come a wintry Jan 14 in Detroit, Lexus will livestream the world premiere for the benefit of car enthusiasts.

Starting 2020, the Detroit show will marked a new milestone when it opens in summer on June 8.

Organisers and exhibitors have previously supported the move to open the show latter in the year to avoid a clash with the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas and to allow for more outdoor promotional activities during the warmer months.

The show this year pulled in some 800,000 visitors over two weeks.


Buy a VW, get a VW plate, but you gotta hurry

                PETALING JAYA: The stars are in alignment, it seems. And it's a good time to whip up sales. Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia announced today that the Road Transport Department has started the "VW" car registration series, so those who buy a Volkswagen in the next few days will be one of the lucky few to own the car with a VW number plate.

Customers who are interested should visit their nearest dealers to find out more or to place a booking before the "VW" series ends.

In a related development, Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia also said the ongoing trade-in programme for the Jetta and Passat is due to end on March 31. For those pre-booking the soon-to-be launched new Tiguan, there is a limited early bird discounts, which ends April 31. The Polo hatch is also being sold at RM69,888 for a limited time.


McLaren 650S Le Mans announced

                LONDON: As an ode to the McLaren F1 GTR’s success and domination at the 24 Hours of Le Mans, during its inaugural year of participation, comes 50 units of the McLaren 650S – each complete with a Le Mans badge.

During the supercar maker’s participation in the prestigious 24 Hours of Le Mans race in 1995, it saw five of its F1 GTR race cars cross the line in first, third, fourth, fifth and thirteenth.

Soon after, and to celebrate such a feat, five special edition McLaren F1 LM (Le Mans) were commissioned – one for each of the cars that finished.

It’s been 20 year’s and McLaren has decided to commemorate their 1995 success with 50 special edition 650S Le Mans cars ‘done up’ by the boys at the McLaren Special Operations (MSO) division.

The styling of the McLaren 650S Le Mans edition was inspired by and tweaked in consultation with the original McLaren F1 designer – Peter Stevens, and the race-winning chassis #01R McLaren F1 GTR.

Such tweaks include the roof-mounted snorkel air intake, which seems to “enhance (the) aural drama within the cabin” while channelling air into the unaltered 3.8L twin-turbo V8 with 641bhp / 678Nm, 0-100kph in 3.0sec and a top speed of 329kph.

Directly above the wheel arches that house the 19-inch front wheels (20-inch for the rear) are flaps/louvres that help dissipate heat away from the carbon ceramic brakes with orange callipers via venturi-effect while creating additional front downforce too.

The car gets fitted with carbon fibre parts that include the front splitter and rear bumper with MSO coming up with special extended side blades and a rear diffuser – all this while being painted only in metallic Sarthe (capital of Le Mans, France) Grey.

The cabin is practically upholstered in black leather and Alcantara with splashes of the Mclaren’s orange found on the sports seats’ backrest with Le Mans stitched in white into the headrest.

While a standard 650S Coupe costs from £195,000 (RM1.1mil), each McLaren 650S Le Mans will cost £244,500 (RM1.4mil), with deliveries due to commence by the middle of the year.

While a standard 650S Coupe costs from £195,000 (RM1.1mil), each McLaren 650S Le Mans will cost £244,500 (RM1.4mil), with deliveries due to commence by the middle of the year.

In addition, new owners of the McLaren 650S Le Mans will also receive an exclusive invitation for (plus a guest) to join McLaren at a 20th anniversary celebration of the famous victory at the historic Le Mans circuit…on the house.