Govt to roll out MBIKE system to check illegal border crossings

                JOHOR BARU: The Immigration Department plans to overcome illegal entries and exits by motorcyclists between Johor and Singapore with a new automated border control system known as MBIKE, to be launched in December.

It is similar to the autogates placed at all entry and exit points in Malaysia. Singapore has automated its clearance for motorcycles since 2008.

The Malaysian system, which uses a radio frequency identification device (RFID) sticker attached to the holder’s passport, requires the holder to place their thumb on the reader before the gantry gate opens.

The advanced system will also be able to detect if there is only one person or a pillion rider as well on a motorcycle. If there are two people on the motorcycle, both will be required to scan their thumbs.

Johor Immigration director Datuk Rohaizi Bahari said this system will be the first of its kind at any CIQ (Customs, Immigration and Quarantine) in Malaysia for motorcycle clearance.

“This system will not just enhance security at both checkpoints but also ease clearance at the Johor Causeway and Second Link,” he said.

Registration, which is free of charge, is now open. “So far, response at the Johor CIQ has been overwhelming, with 4,500 people having registered for it since Sept 30,” he told The Star.

Requirements for the application include holding a passport that is valid for more than six months, being free from any blacklist and being at least 18 years old.

Each year, dozens of Malaysian and foreign motorcyclists are jailed or fined for entering or leaving the country without stopping to present their passports at the 150 Immigration counters at the Johor Causeway and Second Link.

For years, many have claimed ignorance, blamed the counters for being closed or having no Immigration officials present to verify their passports, as there are no gantries to stop the motorcyclists from zooming past the counters, especially during rush hour.

For the first nine months this year alone, some 104 local and foreign motorcyclists have been detained for such offences at both the checkpoints.

Offenders face fines of between RM1,500 and RM1,800, in default two or three months’ jail.

Some 40,000 Malaysian motorcyclists travel to Singapore daily, mainly for work.

At present, there are 100 motorcycle lanes in and out at the Bangunan Sultan Iskandar CIQ here and 50 lanes at the Kompleks Sultan Abu Bakar at the Second Link.

The system, said Rohaizi, will also help free their personnel to focus on other areas because much manpower is needed to man at least 60% to 75% of the counters to clear the motorcycles daily.

Manual booths at both CIQs will continue for motorcyclists who do not have MBIKE and foreigners, he added.

To apply for MBIKE, just go to the one-stop registration centre at the Johor CIQ or contact its hotline at 07-218 2400, or visit www.mbike.my.

Another one-stop centre at the Second Link will open by this month.

Both centres will operate round the clock.


Enjoy cheaper fuel in January 2015

                PETALING JAYA: Prices for RON95 and RON97 petrol have dropped by 35 cents per litre from today, while diesel is down by 30 sen.

With the drop, fuel prices per litre are now RM1.91 for RON95 petrol, RM2.11 for RON97, and RM1.93 for diesel, announced the Domestic Trade, Cooperative and Consumerism Ministry in a statement Wednesday.

Minister Datuk Seri Hasan Malek said that the Government would continue to monitor the market price of petrol and diesel, as well as currency exchange rates, in the coming months.

On Dec 1, 2014, retail prices for petrol and diesel were fixed on a managed float system, effectively marking the removal of all fuel subsidies.

Under the managed float, retail prices would be based on the monthly average world price of crude oil.


Orders for new Volvo XC40 surge past 20,000 units

                STOCKHOLM: Volvo Cars has reported that orders for its XC40 small premium sport utility vehicle (SUV) has already exceeded 20,000 units and with deliveries already beginning in Europe and America, it's now headed for the upcoming Beijing Auto Show in March.

The five-door Swedish compact SUV made its official debut last year in September and has two 2.0-litre (1,969cc) turbocharged engines for choice - one for petrol and another for diesel.

The B4204T14 petrol engine for the T5 AWD variant produces 247PS at 5,500rpm and 350Nm of torque from 1,800 to 4,800rpm.

As for the D4204T12 diesel engine for the D4AWD variant, it dishes out 190PS at 4,000rpm and 400Nm of torque from 1,750 to 2,500rpm.

Depending on variant, the XC40 weighs in from 1,684kg to 1,733kg (kerb), while sporting a 2,702mm wheelbase and measuring 4,425mm-long, 1,863mm-wide and 1,652mm-tall.

The arrival of the XC40 means that for the first time, Volvo Cars has three new globally available SUVs in what is the fastest growing segment of the automotive market, paving the way for further growth in sales and profitability.

The Swedish compact SUV is the first model on Volvo Cars’ new compact modular-vehicle architecture (CMA), which will underpin all upcoming cars in the 40 Series, including fully electrified vehicles. Co-developed within Geely, CMA provides the company with the necessary economies of scale for this segment.

The XC40 is also the first Volvo to come with a car-sharing feature, enabled via Volvo’s digital key technology and its connected services platform Volvo On Call.

New owners can simply share their car with family and friends without having to hand over a physical key.

Today Volvo Cars also launches its global marketing campaign around the XC40. The campaign features a new version of the famous ‘My Favorite Things’ song from the classic musical and film, ‘Sound of Music’. The campaign version was recorded by Swedish artist Jennie Abrahamson and was released on Spotify just prior to the campaign launch. The song and updated context underline Volvo Cars’ approach to challenging the traditional car ownership model.

“With the XC40, we enter the fastest growing segment in the industry, the XC40 completes our global SUV line-up, bringing the award-winning safety, connectivity and infotainment technologies known from our larger cars to the small SUV segment. These latest figures show that our customers clearly like what they see,” said Volvo Cars senior vice president of strategy, brand and retail Björn Annwall.

Volvo’s new small SUV is one of seven shortlisted for the 2018 European Car of the Year, the winner of which will be announced in March. This week, the XC40 was awarded the prestigious Car of the Year award by leading UK automotive publication What Car?


Hyundai plans to raise stake in self-driving startup, says report

                SEOUL: Hyundai Motor Group plans to ramp up its stake in a local startup specialised in autonomous driving technology and invest about 400 billion won (RM1.4bil), a newspaper report said today.

Hyundai Motor Group, which houses Hyundai Motor Co and Kia Corp, has been working on acquiring more stake in 42dot Inc, the Korea Economic Daily said, adding that the process is likely to be completed next month.

Kia and Hyundai Motor hold a combined 20.4% stake in the startup, as of 2021, according to 42dot Inc's regulatory filing.

Hyundai Motor Group did not immediately respond to Reuters request for a comment.

The Seoul-based automaker plans to introduce more than 31 electric models through 2030 to secure a projected 12% of the global electric vehicle market.

In March, the company floated plans to invest about 95.5 trillion won (RM326bil) through 2030, including autonomous driving technology and electric-vehicle businesses


Lightning sends wickedly fast electric motorcycle off to be mass-marketed

                SAN JOSE: Lightning has announced that a new electric bike is coming to town, with enough range and power to make Zero and Harley Davidson nervous.

For years, Lightning Motorcycles electric superbikes have been setting speed records across the US beating all gas-powered competitors in its tracks. Thie week the company announced the new Lightning Strike, Lightning's first-ever mass-market electric motorcycle featuring the brand's iconic speed.

Thursday's press release was accompanied by a teaser image showing almost nothing of the bike except for a pair of glowing headlights.

Beneath the tagline reading "Lighting Strikes Twice," Lightning provided a generous amount of performance specs that show that the bike will certainly be in competition with some of the most popular electric bike models currently on the market.

The Lightning Strike is said to come with 240km of range, have a top speed of 240kph, and charge in 35 minutes all for US$12,998 (around RM54,000).

For nearly US$17,000 (RM70,000) less than H-D's new electric LiveWire, you get 64km more of range and a top speed of about 80kph more. Compared with Zero's most popular bikes, the Lightning Strike offers extremely competitive numbers.

The official launch is scheduled to take place in March just one month after Zero debuts the newest generation of the SR/F.


Geneva motor show organisers to help Qatar set up own show from 2023

                DOHA/GENEVA: There's a new international motor show coming up and it's set to open in Doha in 2023.

It's getting a big helping hand from the organisers of the Geneva Motor Show. The full concept reveal of the Qatar Geneva International Motor Show will be made by the guys behind the Geneva show when the next one is set to resume from Feb 19-27, 2022. The 2020 and 2021 shows had been cancelled because of the pandemic.

As partners, the Geneva International Motor Show (GIMS) and Qatar Tourism have hinted that the platform is positioned as a new world-renowned motor show for the Middle East.

The first edition of the Qatar Geneva show is planned for the autumn, and the organisers intend the event to take place every two years.

"The joint forces with Qatar Tourism empower us to focus on the upcoming 91st edition of GIMS in February 2022, where we will be able to gather ideas and learnings for the new motor show in Doha,” said the Geneva show's permanent committee president Maurice Turrettini.

Qatar Airways Group chief executive and chairman of Qatar Tourism Akbar Al Baker said the development of the Doha motor show was in tune with the Qatar National Vision 2030 to expand its tourism attractions.


No upper age limit on e-hailing drivers set by Transport Ministry, says Dr Wee

                PETALING JAYA: There is no maximum age limit fixed for e-hailing drivers under the Transport Ministry, says Datuk Seri Dr Wee Ka Siong.

The minister said neither the ministry nor the Road Transport Department (JPJ) had set any conditions or rules regarding the maximum age for any individual who wishes to hold a Vocational Licence to work as a driver of a public service vehicle (including e-hailing) or goods vehicle.

"Any individual may continue to hold or renew their Vocational Licence, as long as the individual complies with all other necessary conditions including submitting a medical report confirming that they are healthy and able to perform driving functions safely," he said in a statement today.

Dr Wee was responding to a report that Grab driver Rasamany Vettivelu (pic) was left jobless after the 75-year-old was laid off by the e-hailing platform, apparently over the company's own internal restrictions on hiring drivers over the age of 69 due to safety reasons.

"I was sad and heartbroken when I received an auto-generated notification via text message from Grab saying that due to age restrictions, my services will be terminated on April 30, ” she had said.

Rasamany, nicknamed "Grab Aunty", said she was disappointed that she could not continue as an e-hailing driver although she was physically fit.

"I want to be healthy and independent," she added.

Dr Wee said the maximum age set by Grab as reported was an internal ruling as part of its own condition to register an individual as an e-hailing driver.

"Taking into consideration the issue of hardship faced by the public as a result of this Covid-19 pandemic, I hope e-hailing service operators across the country including Grab can from time to time review the internal conditions they set for e-hailing drivers, including the maximum age limit.

"This is to help all those who are involved to be able to continue their livelihood working as e-hailing drivers," he added.

"At the same time, e-hailing drivers must also be responsible by ensuring that their health is in good condition at all times.

"The level of personal health is very important to ensure that the services provided are safe, especially to passengers and other road users," Dr Wee said.


Ford dials up Mustang Mach-E driver assistance and comfort as electric Mustang sales dominate

                LONDON: The Ford Mustang Mach-E 1 now becomes an even more compelling choice for drivers making the switch to electric, introducing enhanced driver assistance technologies, comfort and styling features.

Mustang Mach-E now delivers as standard Ford’s Intelligent Automated Cruise Control 2.0, 2 which can use information from the navigation system and forward-facing camera to automatically adjust vehicle speed not only according to speed limit signs but also to upcoming curves, turns and roundabouts.

Drivers can also now tow larger trailers and caravans with ease, as Mustang Mach-E rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive models equipped with the 91 kWh extended-range battery are able to tow up to 1,500 kg – increased from 1,000 kg. 3

Around 80 per cent of Mustang Mach-E customers to-date have moved from other car brands to join Ford in its electric transformation – and the first electric member of the Mustang family outsold the petrol-powered Mustang 4 by a factor eight-to-one in 2022 to-date.

“Mustang Mach-E was developed from the ground up to deliver the character and performance of our iconic Mustang sports car. Now we’ve made the first SUV member of the Mustang family even more tempting for the ever-growing number of customers ready to embrace the electric revolution,” said Martin Sander, general manager, Ford Model e, Europe.

Mustang Mach-E customers can also now benefit from a wider model range and choice of personalisation options.

Previously available only on all-wheel drive models, the Premium specification is now offered for rear-wheel drive models with the 91 kWh extended-range battery, adding standard 19-inch alloy wheels, Adaptive LED headlamps with Glare-Free Auto High Beam,2 eight-way powered driver and passenger seats, and red brake callipers combined with black exterior detailing.

Head-turning Vapor Blue and Carbonized Grey exterior colour options are now available alongside two additional alloy wheel designs, across the Mustang Mach-E line-up.


World premiere of Lamborghini Huracan GT3

                SANT'AGATA BOLOGNESE (Italy): Automobili Lamborghini has presented the new Huracan GT3, in a world premiere at its headquarters in Sant'Agata Bolognese.

The GT3 competitor makes its debut following that of the new Huracan LP 620-2 Super Trofeo, which will be the protagonist of the Lamborghini Blancpain Super Trofeo in Europe, Asia and North America from this year.

Starting in 2015, the Huracan GT3 will line up in the Blancpain Endurance Series that runs over five venues in Europe, among which is included the famous Spa-Francorchamps 24-hours race.

The growth and success of Lamborghini motorsports activities throughout the world has heightened its appeal to partners: the prestigious Indonesian oil and energy petroleum company Pertamina will be the official technical partner of Lamborghini Squadra Corse activities in the coming years.

"With the Huracan GT3, Lamborghini Squadra Corse takes a further step forward in the development and production of a race car for this category, which is among the most prestigious and challenging in international motorsport. Lamborghini is thus for the first time directly involved in GT motorsport activities with the in-house development of this new model,'' declared Stephan Winkelmann, President and CEO of Automobili Lamborghini.

The Huracan GT3 is equipped with an Alu-Carbon chassis and a fully integrated FIA-compliant roll-cage.

The kerb weight is 1,239kg with a 42/58 front/rear weight distribution.

The bodywork is in composite materials and, along with the aerodynamics, has been developed in collaboration with Dallara Engineering.

As for the Huracan Super Trofeo, the GT3 is equipped with new bodywork fast- fittings and equipped with a new, enhanced-performing engine and gearbox oil cooler.

Special attention has been given to safety, with the Huracan GT3 equipped with a carbon frame 8862 specification seat; an OMP fire extinguishing system; and an innovative roof hatch which enables, in case of need, quick assistance by medical personnel through the roof of the car. Seat belts are provided by OMP, the fuel tank is an FT3 type and the pedals are adjustable.

The new rear-wheel drive Huracan GT3 adopts the V10 direct injection engine mounted on the road car, managed by a Bosch Motorsport control unit that also manages traction control, gearbox and the TFT display on the dashboard.

The engine is coupled with a sequential six-speed gearbox, according to FIA regulations, and a three-disc racing clutch.

In Europe, the Huracan GT3 is priced at 369,000 Euro (excluding taxes) ex works.


March 3-9: RON97 petrol up 16 sen

                KUALA LUMPUR: The retail price of RON97 petrol will increase by 16 sen a litre from March 3-9, while the price for RON95 and diesel remains unchanged.

The Finance Ministry, in a statement on Wednesday (Feb 23), said the retail price of RON97 petrol increased from RM3.29 to RM3.45 per liter, while RON95 and diesel remained at RM2.05 and RM2.15 per litre, respectively.

"To protect consumers from the effects of rising oil prices in the global market, the government has retained the retail price of RON95 petrol at the ceiling price of RM2.05 per litre and diesel at RM2.15 per litre, even though the actual market price of both products has surpassed the ceiling price,” the statement read.


Kia shares first picture of its new XCeed crossover

                SEOUL: Kia has shared the first picture of its new urban crossover, called the XCeed, due to be officially unveiled June 26, 2019.

According to the South Korean automaker, this new model offers an alternative to traditional larger SUVs with its sportier design and handling yet comparable interior space and luggage capacity. Kia also claims to be aiming this model squarely at millennials.

This forthcoming model is actually a production version of the SP Signature concept presented at the Seoul Motor Show in March 2019.

At first glance, the vehicle boasts a relatively robust appearance with its long hood, LED headlights stretching out to the grille and bold shoulder line. Inside, it is expected to get a new infotainment and navigation system in the form of a 10.25-inch touch screen. Kia is also thought to be including adjustable mood lighting that changes the cabin lighting to suit user preferences.

The new Kia XCeed will be officially unveiled on June 26, before going on public display at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September. It is scheduled to launch in South Korea in late 2019 and globally in 2020.


Ford reinvents the wheel – in carbon fibre

                MELBOURNE: Other than supercar maker Koenigsegg, Ford and Australia-based Carbon Revolution has crafted the first mass-produced, track capable carbon fibre wheels for the venerable Shelby GT350R Mustang.

All 37 GT350R Mustangs will be the first mass-produced car to receive mass-produced carbon fibre wheels as standard fitment and weighing just a little over 8kg a piece.

Ford had set high testing requirements for the wheels, which needed to survive high-speed curb strikes, damage from ultra-violet rays and chemical exposure, and above all else - extreme heat durability up to 900-degrees C.

To combat these heat levels, the wheels feature a multi-material coating formulation to provide a thermal barrier.

A plasma arc gun was used to liquefy a ceramic material and the wheels were then coated at critical points around the inner hub and on the back of the spokes.

The result is an incredibly thin, nearly diamond-hard coating that shields the wheel from the GT350R’s 900-degrees Celsius potential for producing rotor heat.

The only drawback is that the flawless finish is a gloss black that hides the carbon fibre weaves.

In the curb-strike test, Ford said that due to the wheel’s lightweight, advanced construction methods and resins in the wheels, along with the highly-developed MagneRide dampers, the suspension was able to react so fast that the driver wasn’t sure the test had been carried out correctly and was thus required to repeat it.

The wheels also provide a reduction in rotational inertia of more than 40%, which positively impacts acceleration and braking performance.

A reduction in un-sprung weight (components not supported by the suspension) can have a significant impact on handling and performance by helping vehicles start, stop and turn faster by reducing wheel rotational inertia, dramatically improving response time to driver input.

In addition, lower un-sprung weight also translates to suspension components not having to work so hard to keep the tires in contact with the road over undulating or broken surfaces.

Ford said that the wheels are so light that the springs and MagneRide dampers had to be recalibrated because the suspension can respond considerably faster to road inputs.

Each wheel has a RFID chip with a unique tracking number embedded into the wheel’s structure, and each is individually entered into a quality assurance system.

Once this structure is assembled, it’s infused with resin and cured at high temperatures.

While the wheel cures, 61 individual checks and more than 246,000 data points are logged before being released from the machine.

To guarantee quality parts, the cured wheels are analysed using a 3D computerized topography (CT) imaging process in which more than 18,000 X-ray images are taken.

If the wheel passes inspection, it will undergo machining for the valve stem and mounting hardware holes before it gets painted, coated, assembled, dimensionally checked and shipped to Flat Rock Assembly Plant for installation on a new GT350R.

“The carbon fibre wheels reduce vehicle weight by 60 pounds (27kg) compared to aluminium, yet are stiffer for better steering response, we believe this is a game changer for the industry and a great example of improved performance through innovation,” said Ford Performance chassis supervisor Adam Wirth.


Interested in an F1 racing helmet or steering wheel?

                PARIS: Artcurial Motorcars will host a sale of the former collection of Giuseppe Neri, a friend of Enzo Ferrari, at its Automobilia auction on Feb 6.

The lots include a large number of objects relating to the famous Italian brand. In particular, objects directly linked to its Formula 1 activities are expected: car components, steering wheels and helmets.

Over the years, Giuseppe Neri gathered a wide range of photographs, models and various souvenirs from competitions. F1 enthusiasts will have a particularly hard time choosing their favourites as the catalogue includes drivers' helmets, including some of Fernando Alonso and Michael Schumacher (one of which is estimated to fetch between 20,000 and 30,000 euros), but also replicas of steering wheels, parts from the single-seater cars (fairing, engine hood, wing tips) and even engines.

Other items relating to Ferrari, ranging from a fan's collection of numerous spare parts, catalogues and user manuals, are also on the programme of this sale, as are nine watches from Breguet.

Discover the catalogue for the Automobilia auction of Feb 6.


VW's Cupra to launch three electric models by 2025

                BARCELONA: Volkswagen's Spanish brand Cupra will launch three electric models by 2025, including what would be its first fully electric vehicle to be made in Spain, Cupra said on Tuesday.

Volkswagen delivered 452,000 all-electric vehicles last year and is aiming for half of its global output to be all-electric by 2030.

The German carmaker has earmarked €159 billion (RM748bil) over the next five years for investment in electrification, far more than rivals.

Cupra, which has close ties to VW's other Spanish brand SEAT and focuses on high-margin sports vehicles, unveiled its new models at an event outside here. They will take its total number of models to seven.

"In the mid-term, our aim is to deliver 500,000 cars per year and push forward with our international expansion into new markets as well as entering new segments," Cupra's chief executive Wayne Griffiths said in a statement.

Since its creation in 2018, Cupra has delivered about 200,000 cars and its turnover reached around €2.2 billion (RM10.3bil) in 2021.

The Terramar model will be its first electrified sport-utility vehicle. It will be available in 2024 either with an internal combustion engine or as a plug-in hybrid. It will be produced at Audi's Gyor plant in Hungary.

The Tavascan is an electric concept car expected to be launched in 2024. Its production details have not yet been announced.

In 2025, Cupra will launch its UrbanRebel electric model. Production is planned at SEAT's Martorell Barcelona plant, but is subject to the Spanish government approving Volkswagen's request for public aid as part of its decision to build a battery cell plant in Spain.

It is the first electric vehicle to be assigned to Martorell, which aims to make 500,000 electric cars a year, including for the Volkswagen Group.


Proton bullish as market share tops 18.1%

                SUBANG JAYA: Proton announced today it has achieved an 18.1% market share in June, its best since July 2015

This was despite estimated total industry volume shrinking by 30.8% to 42,090 units.

The local carmaker said it was normal for local sales to trend lower immediately after a festive period.

For June, it was no exception as the highs prior to the Hari Raya Aidilfitri holiday were followed by a tough sales environment.

In contrast, June 2018 was different as it was the first month of the post-GST tax holiday period making it challenging for most automotive brands to post positive year-on-year sales growth numbers.

However, the company's sales grew by 23% compared to June last year, placing it second for the third consecutive month in the national car segment, helping to contribute a sales growth of 61% for the first six months of the year.

On the X70 mid-sized SUV, Proton has delivered 15,175 units for the first half of the year, making it the sales leader overall for the SUV segment.

The company said sales of its Saga continue to grow with 2,541 units delivered in June, contributing to volume growth of 27% over the first six months of 2018.

The rest of the models that have recently received been updated are reported to be performing well. Bookings for the Persona, Iriz and Exora increased by an average of 108%, 180% and 135% respectively when compared to their pre-update booking numbers.

"Our year to date market share currently stands at 14.7% and is a big improvement of our 2018 figure of 10.8%," said Proton chief executive officer Dr Li Chunrong.

"For the second half of the year, we will concentrate on continuing to build our sales and exciting the market further by introducing new and updated models as was promised at the beginning of the year.”


Brazen tontos fixing GPS devices on vehicles of enforcement personnel

File pic of police and Road Transport Department cracking down against tontos in Shah Alam in May 2016.
KUALA LUMPUR: Tonto syndicates are getting more brazen and are fixing Global Positioning System (GPS) devices on vehicles belonging to the Malaysian Border Security Agency to track the movements of enforcement personnel stationed at the nation's borders.

Tonto syndicates are made up of individuals who trail enforcement officers to tip off wrongdoers.

Agency director-general Datuk Shaharuddin Abu Sohot said that three of its vehicles were detected with GPS devices placed on their rear bumpers earlier this year.

"When our personnel carried out a vehicle inspection, we found a suspicious gadget which turned out to be a GPS device.

As such, Shaharuddin said all agency vehicles had been ordered to undergo a thorough inspection to ensure that no devices such as GPS are found.

"Indeed, the tonto syndicates will monitor enforcement personnel and we are investigating as to how the devices could be placed on the vehicles.

"There is a possibility that the devices were installed when the agency sent its vehicles for servicing and maintenance at the (work)shop ... however, investigations are still in progress," Shaharuddin said.

He reminded agency personnel to be alert to the threats of the tonto groups as they could act aggressively.

"Personnel have also been supplied with firearms should they face certain threats," he said.

In 2016, a female Customs officer Anisah Ali, 54, and her two colleagues were trailing a vehicle which was suspected to be carrying smuggled cigarettes.

Their vehicle was hit by a four-wheel drive vehicle, believed to belong to tontos at Banggol Chicha, Pasir Mas, Kelantan. Anisah died in the incident


Anthracite grey and magma red: The trendiest car colours right now

A car in anthracite grey. — Image from dipyourcar.com
BERLIN: The endless succession of black cars pass unnoticed, but one stands out: a small and instantly noticeable pink one.

Around 75 per cent of new cars in a car-loving country like Germany are painted white, black or grey, according to the country’s Federal Motor Transport Authority.

It hasn't always been this way. Up until the 1970s bright green or orange cars were a common sight. It’s only really in the last 10 years that the neutral tones have become so dominant.

"Today, technical colours such as grey are predominant,” says Paolo Tumminelli, from Cologne’s International School of Design, “and green has become rather rare.”

Ferrari and Mazda

But he adds that car makers are increasingly promoting bright, striking colours. Ferrari has been producing its bright red for decades, of course.

But Mazda has been presenting its new models in magma red for a few years now, and in fact a majority of the company’s customers now opt for this fiery tone. Against that, buyers of the Mercedes A-Class – who have a choice of 11 colours – mostly opt for polar white, while obsidian black dominates in the S-Class.

Professor Tumminelli thinks bright metallic paints – particularly silvers and blues – are about to make an impact, though the whites, greys and blacks are still likely to be dominant.

"A car remains a serious investment," he says, "customers think about their public image, and that is backed-up by what’s pushed in the advertising."

Blues and greens

BASF is one of the car paint market leaders in Europe and supplies almost all manufacturers. Their chief designer, Mark Gutjahr, says blues are currently popular – there are apparently 135 different shades of blue currently available – and this is a trend that’s set to grow.

But he has also noticed more demand for classy greens, like emerald, and gold is also on the rise. "It looks very elegant when the tone changes between grey and beige," he says. In his opinion, warmer colours in particular will increase over the next few years.

"That’s a consequence of the social situation," he says, "many people long for a warmer aesthetic in a world they perceive as more hostile."

And there’s more to grey that just a mix of black and white, and the range available will be warmer, as the use of silver lacquers declines.

"Silver stands for the outdated technology of 20 years ago" says Gutjahr. "Nobody wants that anymore. While 15 years ago the silver content of lacquers was a good 30 percent, today it is only 10 percent."


Mazda taps SUV craze with Koeru concept

                HIROSHIMA: The Mazda Koeru concept will make its world premiere at the 66th 2015 Frankfurt International Motor Show (IAA) in September.

Koeru, Japanese for “exceed” or “go beyond”, is Mazda’s latest venture into the growing crossover SUV market.

As with its other cars, Mazda says the concept will feature the KODO – Soul of Motion design, expressing the power and vitality of a predator along with a unique level of refined dignity.

It will also sport the full line-up of Mazda’s SKYACTIV Technology, ensuring high dynamic performance, fuel economy and safety with driving enjoyment.

The carmaker will also display its new-generation model line-up in Frankfurt.

Highlights include an all-new MX-5 complete with accessories as well as several SKYACTIV powertrains.

The IAA is open to the public from Sept 17-27.


Lamborghini is replacing the Aventador with Revuelto plug-in hybrid

                BOLOGNA: Lamborghini has introduced its first plug-in hybrid production car, a V-12 coupe with three electric motors and 1,001 horsepower-and a 9.6km electric-only range.

The 2024 Revuelto will replace the conventionally powered Aventador supercar made since 2011 and follows the path of the Terzo Millennio electric concept and the rare Sián, which used hybrid technology.

It boasts 13 drive modes, all-wheel-drive, and an eight-speed gearbox that shifts the car to 100kph in 2.5 seconds, according to the company. Top speed is more than 350kph.

Here, as with the US$3 million-plus Sián, the hybrid technology is about maximising power and seamless performance rather than driving far without using gasoline (although Lamborghini says C02 emissions will be reduced by 30% compared with the Aventador).

That’s far enough to let you exit your neighbourhood silently in EV mode before the roar of the V-12 kicks in and annoys the neighbours.

Other supercar hybrids like the McLaren Artura might get you to the store or work and back, with a (barely) more useful 30km on electric-only driving.

The Revuelto arrives just weeks after the Sant’Agata Bolognese, Italy-based company reported strong earnings for 2022 and order books bulging with buyers until at least 2024.

Last year, Lamborghini sold a record 9,233 vehicles globally, up 10% from 2021, and reported US$2.59 billion in revenue, up 22% year over year.

The Volkswagen AG-owned brand has promised that by 2024, it will offer plug-in hybrid versions of each model in its lineup, even the bestselling Urus SUV.

Named after a bull that fought in Barcelona in 1880, the Revuelto is made almost entirely of carbon fibre, which is used in the chassis and the frame, and visible in much of the bodywork.

Its look is pure aggression: vertically opening scissor doors, side fins shaped like shark teeth, and an overall wedge shape punctuated by hexagon-shaped exhaust pipes.

The taper of its nose is similar to the Murcielago, and its proportions mimic those of the Diablo, but the oppressive glare of the headlight and air vent combination at the front is all its own.

As with all racers of this magnitude, the body flourishes are geared toward maximizing aerodynamic efficiency.

Even the door handles are designed to divert air from the hood to horizontal fins on the sides of the car.

A wing profile design on the carbon fibre roof directs air to the rear intakes; small grilles inside the wheel arches help cool the brakes and reduce resistance inside the wheel wells; the menacing headlamps are framed by aerodynamic blades that connect the front splitter to the hood of the car, for seamless airflow.

Inside, the Revuelto looks like the cockpit of a jet, which follows Lamborghini’s signature style.

The two-seat cabin, with more headroom and legroom than the Aventador, is oriented in a Y shape and centered around an 8.4-inch vertical touchscreen.

Larger digital displays are located on the driver’s side and passenger side of the dashboard. A new swipe function allows the pilot and co-pilot to move applications and information from the central display to the side displays with the ease of dating on Tinder.

A few buttons do remain inside the car, like the turn signals and launch control. There’s even one cupholder, a rare concession to convenience in the track-focused supercar world.

The hybrid function offers three dedicated driving modes-Recharge, Hybrid and Performance-and it takes roughly one hour to regain full battery life using a 3kW domestic charger.

It can also regain charge using regenerative braking from the front wheels or can be charged automatically in just six minutes using the V-12 engine when the car is driving.

A fully electric Lamborghini is still far off.

In 2021, chief executive officer Stephan Winkelmann told Bloomberg that 2030 was the target date, and in an interview on March 10 reiterated his opinion that EVs aren’t yet right yet for the brand.

"Not in terms of technology, but not also in terms of customer perception,” he says.

"This will change, I’m sure about that. But we have time, and we also need time to prove that a fully electric car can be not only fast, but also (provide) emotion.”

Deliveries of the Revuelto will begin by the end of the year, a Lamborghini spokesman said.

Pricing has yet to be announced. If it’s anything like the cost of the Aventador, it will start above US$500,000 (RM2.2mil).


Porsche spins a new groove for Macan in new campaign

                SINGAPORE: Porsche is using the Macan as the centrepiece in its “Life Intensified” campaign to highlight the customisation options availale to its smallest SUV. An Instagram contest is being held in conjunction with the event.

The Macan is showcased in the campaign with four unique colours: Lava Orange, Rivera Blue, Viper Green and Ultra Violet.

Alongside the campaign, the Instagram contest will offer three individuals a fully sponsored photography class held by Florian in Penang, Malaysia. To enter the contest, members of the public would simply need to take and post a photo or video that embodies their interpretation of “Life Intensified”.

The photo or video must then be uploaded to Instagram with the hashtag #LifeIntensified. Winners will be announced on Sept 17. More details at www.lifeintensified.asia.

Porsche set up a unit called Porsche Exclusive in 1986 to sell customised parts. It was rebranded as “Porsche Exclusive Manufaktur" this year.

The range of services available also includes advising customers, developing special equipment options for each model range and producing limited production runs. Last year, Porsche Exclusive Manufaktur produced 15,000 customised vehicles for its customers.


Digital Girls’ Day at Audi

                SINGAPORE: The world of technology is open to everyone. This is the message Audi wants to convey on its first digital Girls’ Day today.

More than 150 schoolgirls from the Ingolstadt and Neckarsulm regions of Germany had a chance to get a first look at technical professions at Audi in a virtual format.

Girls’ Day is an important event intended to help boost integration of skilled female employees and offers participants’ information about various apprenticeships as well as dual study programmes at Audi AG.

Interested girls from grades seven to ten can learn more about the various training programmes in various presentations and ask questions from the comfort of their own homes. Due to the coronavirus pandemic, this year’s Girls’ Day is taking place virtually for the first time.

Audi apprentices will present their career fields with presentations and video clips and share insights from their daily routines with participants via the digital “Stream & Chat” format.

A total of nine apprenticeships will be presented that are offered in Ingolstadt and Neckarsulm – including production mechanic, warehouse logistics expert, it expert, mechatronics technician and automotive mechatronics technician.

Julia Habermeier, third-year automotive Mechatronics Technician apprentice: “Girls’ Day really helped me overcome my initial fear of what I thought was a ‘typical man’s career’ during the career orientation. It’s great that we can hold Girls’ Day digitally despite the ongoing coronavirus situation and that I can participate myself as an ambassador for apprentices. I have never regretted my decision to train as an automotive mechatronics technician and I hope to persuade a participant or two to pursue my chosen career.”


Lamborghini LMDh prototype racing car to get world premiere at Goodwood

                BOLOGNA: Lamborghini will unveil its new LMDh racing prototype at this year's Goodwood Festival of Speed.

The new car is set to compete in the world's most important endurance races: the Hypercar class of the 2024 FIA World Endurance Championship including the 24 Hours of Le Mans; and in the GTP class of the IMSA WeatherTech Sports Car Championship Endurance Cup, which includes iconic races such as the 24 Hours of Daytona and 12 Hours of Sebring.

The car will debut on July 13 and would be presented by Lamborghini chairman and CEO Stephan Winkelmann, chief technical officer Rouven Mohr and motorsport head Giorgio Sanna, together with their partner Iron Lynx.

In the year that the Italian sports car maker celebrates its 60th anniversary, new models running "up the hill" at Festival of Speed 2023 will include the Revuelto unveiled earlier this year as the successor to the Aventador.

Also taking to the famous Goodwood track is the V10 Huracan Sterrato that goes beyond the tarmac with its special Rally mode for dirt and loose surfaces, and making its public dynamic debut in the UK.

A Revuelto and Huracan Sterrato will be displayed outside the Lamborghini Lounge, and together with a Huracan Tecnica and Huracan ST0, plus Urus Performante can also be seen in the Sports Car and First Glance paddocks at Goodwood Festival of Speed 2023, from where they will run up the hill throughout the weekend.

Goodwood Festival of Speed is held at the Goodwood House estate in Sussex, UK from July 13-16.


How to deal with dead insects on your car without damaging the paint

                BERLIN: There are few better places in the world to look for dead insects than on the front of a well-travelled car.

But if you value the coat of paint on your car, you're advised not to use special chemicals or a high-pressure hose to remove anything that's stuck to the body of the car.

Instead there's another method that simpler, cheaper and more environmentally friendly: soften them with some water. Soak an old towel or cloth in some water, lay it over the affected area and leave it for a few hours.

You can add a few drops of washing-up liquid to help with stubborn remains. Afterwards, the dirt should be easy enough to wipe off without the need to scrape it off.

Finally, you'll make it much easier for yourself if you make it harder for insects to get stuck to the car in the first place: Rub some wax on the hood and you should notice far less dirt and insects.


New MODENAS Karisma, Elegan and Kymco Downtown scooters introduced

SHAH ALAM: Motosikal dan Enjin Nasional Sdn Bhd (MODENAS), a subsidiary of DRB-HICOM Berhad (DRB-HICOM), has launched three new scooters for the Malaysian market - namely the all-new Karisma 125, Elegan 250 from Modenas, as well as the locally-assembled Downtown 250i by Kymco from Taiwan.The new Karisma 125, Elegan 250 and Downtown 250i scooters are currently priced at RM4,980, RM12,830 amd RM21,500 respectively.First introduced in 2003, the new generation Karisma 125 comes in either Bright Red or Pearly White and is powered by a 125cc engine generating 9hp at 7,500rpm, while featuring a USB port for charging purposes, a multi-purpose key control system and a spacious compartment.The larger Elegan 250 is offered in two colour choices of Matt Black and Matt White, while utilising a 250cc fuel injected engine with a  single overhead cam (SOHC) to generate 22hp at 7,000rpm and has a liquid cooling system for better and smoother riding performance.The Elegan uses a telescopic front fork and a trailing rear swing arm for its suspension and comes equipped with disc brakes for the front and rear as well as an LCD dashboard.As for the Kymco Downtown 250i scooter, the brand's  first model to be launched in Malaysia,  which is based on the larger Kawasaki J300 and is assembled at the Modenas plant in Gurun.To facilitate the after sales support and needs of KYMCO scooter users, EMOS is planning to leverage on its network of 200 dealers and its own service centers in Gurun, lpoh, Subang, Johor Bharu and Kuantan. EMOS has appointed 30 dealers as part of its business partners in introducing KYMCO scooters to the market.Modenas Karisma 125Modenas Elegan 250Kymco Downtown 250i


Detroit Three ready for 2019 rumble over lucrative pickup trucks

                DETROIT: The battle for profits from sales of large pickup trucks is intensifying among the Detroit Three automakers as sales of small cars in the United States shrivel.

For decades Ford Motor Co has had the single best-selling truck brand in its F-Series trucks. General Motors Co’s Chevrolet brand was a solid No. 2, and Fiat Chrysler Automobiles NV’s Ram brand was a distant third.

Now, that hierarchy may be in flux. Sales figures for December and the fourth quarter released on Thursday show FCA’s Ram brand tied with GM’s Chevy brand for the No. 2 spot during the fourth quarter, as sales of the redesigned Ram pickup surged, fuelled in part by demand for an optional 12-inch (30.48 cm) dashboard screen.

 The latest Ford F-250 XLT.

Chevy not long ago held second place to Ford by a wide margin. GM executives said on Thursday they are bullish on their new GMC and Chevy trucks for 2019.

“There’s no doubt this segment (pickup trucks) is one of the epicenters of the auto wars,” said Sandor Piszar, director of marketing for Chevrolet at GM. “It’s been that way forever and we wouldn’t have it any other way.”

On Wall Street, investors give electric car leader Tesla Inc a higher valuation than any of the Detroit automakers. But in the nation’s heartland, big pickups remain far more popular and profitable than any electric car - and most other consumer vehicles of any kind.

Large pickups generate at least US$17,000 a vehicle in pretax profit for GM, the company has indicated in disclosures to investors. By contrast, many Detroit Three sedans are so unprofitable, their manufacturers have decided not to build them anymore.

Disciplined approach

Sustaining sales and pricing in the large-pickup segment will be critical in a year when most forecasters expect overall US car and light truck sales to fall.

Ford’s US sales chief, Mark LaNeve, on Thursday called the F Series “the backbone of our franchise,” during a conference call, and added the “segment will continue to be strong, but hotly contested” in 2019.

Automakers are banking on pickup truck sales to stay strong even if US interest rates continue to rise. Rising interest rates translate into higher monthly car payments and are expected to deter some buyers in 2019.

GM has said 27 percent of Chevrolet and GMC trucks - which can haul trailers by day and substitute for a luxury sedan by night - sell for more than US$55,000.

The new Silverado was engineered with a focus on slashing weight and trimming production costs to compete with market leader Ford. However, the truck has received unflattering reviews for its utilitarian interior.

GM’s Piszar brushed aside the critics. “We’re not concerned at all,” he said. “As people see this new truck they’re blown away.”

He said the automaker has adopted a “very disciplined, very gradual” approach to ramping up production of its new truck. All versions of the new Silverado will be in dealerships in January and sales moving forward will reflect that reality, he said.

Ram on the rise

The transformation of large pickups from work vehicles to substitutes for luxury sedans is most evident in the new Ram. FCA designers stuffed the new Ram 1500 with features including a 12-inch touchscreen, betting customers would pay more for a fully loaded truck.

“These are all the things that customers who are paying that kind of money have come to expect,” said Jim Morrison, head of the Ram brand for North America. “It’s amazing to be able to have your cake and eat it too.”

FCA chief executive Mike Manley said that with the new Ram trucks and additional production capacity, the brand should be the No. 2 seller in the segment.

In the fourth quarter, FCA’s Ram brand tied the Silverado at around 161,000 trucks. For all of 2017, FCA sold 500,000 Ram pickups to the Silverado’s 585,000.

Who is really No. 1?

The Detroit automakers on Thursday renewed their jostling over which among them is really the leader in truck sales.

Ford claims its F-Series is the market leader, with 909,330 trucks sold in 2018, an increase of 1.4 percent over 2017.

But collectively across its Chevrolet and GMC brands -including smaller, midsize trucks like the Chevrolet Colorado - GM sold more pickups in 2018 with 973,469 vehicles sold, an increase of 2.6 percent over 2017.

Ford will start selling its midsize Ranger pickup truck this month to compete with the Colorado.

Overall, the Detroit Three sold 620,206 full-size pickups in the fourth quarter of 2018. Ford had 37.1 percent share of that total, GM had 36.8 percent and FCA had 26 percent. In the fourth quarter of 2017, the Detroit Three sold 594,691 full-size pickups during the fourth quarter. Ford accounted for 40 percent of that total, GM had 38.8 percent and FCA 21.2 percent.

FCA was the only one of the three that reported an increase in full-size pickup sales in the fourth quarter.


Toyota Hilux gets two L-Edition variants: RM119,300 (2.4L) and RM133,900 (2.8L)

                SHAH ALAM: The Toyota Hilux pick-up truck range gets expanded with two “L-Edition” new variants, namely the 2.8-litre AT 4x4 (priced at RM133,900) and 2.4-litre AT 4x4 (priced at RM119,300).

The Hilux “L-Edition” (the ‘L’ refers to ‘Luxury’) comes with a more premium and tougher look.

The Hilux “L-Edition” variants get a bold front design with an aggressive image and wider appearance created by its hexagonal grille surrounded by chrome trim.

The bumper now has a larger and wider air intake below the grille.

The changes emphasise the toughness of the Hilux, a key attribute throughout its 50-year history.

A new rear step ornament is integrated with silver trim.

The Hilux L-Edition also comes with a new stylish 5-spoke 18-inch rims with two tone colour - silver and black.

Inside, the Hilux L-Edition has an all-black interior theme with a combination of piano black trim.

The high-quality combination leather seat is perforated for more comfort and better ventilation.

For the Hilux 2.8 L-Edition, there are specially designed Optitron meters with white background lighting, to provide clear viewing under all lighting conditions.

For safety, the L-Edition is equipped with 7 airbags, Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Active Traction Control (A-TRC) and Hill-start Assist Control (HAC) as standard.

For the 2.8 L-Edition, Downhill Assist Control (DAC) is added to make driving down a steep slope easier and safer.

The new variants features the existing Hilux 2.8-litre and 2.4-litre 4-cylinder turbodiesel engines, equipped with 6-speed automatic transmission with sequential shifter.

All Toyota models come with a 5-year warranty and unlimited mileage (except for Toyota Hilux with maximum mileage of 150,000km).

The warranty is transferable to the next owner (terms and conditions apply).


Automakers recall 12 million US vehicles over Takata air bags

                WASHINGTON: Eight automakers said on Friday they are recalling more than 12 million US vehicles for defective Takata air bag inflators, widening the largest-ever auto safety effort to more passenger-side devices.

Honda Motor Co is recalling 4.5 million US vehicles while Fiat Chrysler Automobiles NV is recalling 4.3 million, according to the documents. The new recall is focused on passenger-side air bag inflators, while prior recalls were for all frontal inflators.

Takata declared 14 million inflators defective in the first phase of its latest recall, and the Friday notice is largely included in that total.

Japan's Takata Corp this month agreed to declare as many as 40 million additional air bag inflators defective by 2019 in a move that will involve recalls by 17 automakers.

Takata inflators can explode with too much force and spray metal shrapnel into vehicle passenger compartments.

The defective air bag inflators have been linked to at least 13 deaths and more than 100 injuries worldwide. The vehicles being recalled were built between 2002 and 2011 and include pickups, SUVs and cars.

Separately, Takata is in bailout talks with a number of potential investors including private equity firm KKR & Co, source said on Thursday.

Takata and the automakers say there are no reports of any ruptures involving the vehicles in the latest recall. They are prioritised by the car's age and the risk of exposure to high humidity. As a result, some owners may not get replacement inflators for several years.

Automakers worldwide had previously recalled about 50 million vehicles with Takata inflators.

Japan's transport ministry said Friday that automakers will recall 7 million vehicles there, so the total worldwide is approaching 70 million.

Other automakers will issue notices in the coming days.

Before Friday, 14 automakers led by Honda had recalled 28.8 million inflators affecting 24 million US vehicles.

At least 2.3 million of the 12 million vehicles in the latest recall were subject to previous driver side recalls.

Toyota Motor Corp told regulators it is recalling 1.65 million vehicles while Subaru is recalling nearly 400,000 vehicles in the United States.

The two automakers said they include some discontinued Saab and Pontiac vehicles assembled for General Motors Co.

Fiat Chrysler said Friday it is also recalling 933,000 vehicles sold outside the United States for Takata inflators. It told the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) that the second phase of the Takata expansion would include 660,000 additional US vehicles.

Mazda Motor Corp is recalling 730,000 US vehicles while Nissan Motor Co is recalling 400,000.

Mitsubishi Motors Corp is recalling 38,000 vehicles and Ferrari NV is calling back 2,800 US sports cars.

Automakers face challenges obtaining enough replacement parts and getting owners to repair their cars. Through May 20, just 8.5 million inflators have been replaced.

Takata may face still more vehicle recalls.

Under a November agreement with NHTSA, it agreed to phase out the volatile chemical ammonium nitrate used in the recalled inflators.

Takata could be required by 2019 to recall another 50 million US inflators with ammonium nitrate unless Takata can prove they are safe under the NHTSA agreement.

In November, Takata agreed to pay a US$70 million fine for safety violations.

The embattled Japanese supplier faces an ongoing US criminal investigation as well as class-action lawsuits and suits filed by the state of Hawaii and the US Virgin Islands.


Lamborghini open to considering all-electric supercar

Domenicali unveiling the Huracan Performante in Geneva on Tuesday. - Bloomberg
GENEVA: , Lamborghini is open to an all-electric addition to its line-up of luxury sports cars, its chief executive said, evidence that German parent Volkswagen's interest in producing zero-emission vehicles could extend to the very top end of its brands.

The 54-year-old Italian car firm is already deviating from its tradition of producing high-powered, low-slung sportscars with its new sport utility vehicle, called Urus, itself a variation in its bovine branding.

The SUV will be launched at the company's headquarters in Sant'Agata Bolognese, Italy, towards the end of this year, with deliveries starting in the second half of 2018.

"Electrification is an area of great attention for us, but I'm not expecting it will happen in the short term," CEO Stefano Domenicali told Reuters at the Geneva car show, ruling out a purely battery-powered Lamborghini before 2025.

"We need to be realistic," he said, pointing to the need to preserve the characteristics of a supercar in terms of handling, weight and performance even in an electric model, while at the same time considering its cost and the required investments.

Lamborghini, one of VW's stable of superluxury brands along with Bentley and Bugatti, already plans to bring a plug-in hybrid version of the Urus SUV by 2020.

Separately, the CEO held out the prospect of another record year for Lamborghini in 2017, powered by undiminished demand for super-luxury cars in the United States, China and Europe.

The company was showing its new Huracan Performante in Geneva ahead of first deliveries in June, with the level of pre-orders already looking good, said Domenicali, the former head of Ferrari's Formula One racing team.
"Since the financial crisis, the market for super sports cars has seen a constant recovery," he said.

"For the medium term, I don´t see a change in that substantially positive trend, especially since economic regions like the US and China are showing unchanged growth." Domenicali said he expected sales this year to increase by a single-digit percentage rate from last year's record 3,457 deliveries.

Future shipments for sportscars would be capped at around 3,500 a year but could go slightly higher as the market expands to a maximum of 3,800, to safeguard the brand's exclusivity, he added, although the Urus SUV could double overall production volumes.

"We will be prudent. Of course we will grow sustainably, but being in the luxury market we must not take every growth potential that is there," he said.

Depending on demand the Urus could add at least another 3,500 vehicles to Lamborghini's total output, he added.


Mitsubishi Fuso and Hino to merge

                TOKYO: Mitsubishi Fuso Truck and Bus Corp and Hino Motors Ltd will merge on an equal footing and collaborate in the areas of commercial vehicle development, procurement, and production.

In a statement, Daimler Truck Holding AG and Toyota Motor Corp said both Mitsubishi Fuso and Hino will build a globally competitive Japanese commercial vehicle manufacturer, after signing a memorandum of understanding (MoU).

Daimler Truck and Toyota will equally invest in the merged entity of Mitsubishi Fuso and Hino.

"They will collaborate on the development of hydrogen and other CASE (connected/autonomous and automated/shared/electric) technologies to support the competitiveness of the new company," said the companies.

Details on the shareholding ratio and corporate structure of the new holding company will be ironed out over the next 18 months.

The companies aim to sign definitive agreements in the first quarter of 2024, and close the deal by end-2024.

The companies said by joining forces, Mitsubishi Fuso and Hino would create synergies and enhance the competitiveness of Japanese truck manufacturers.

Both Daimler Truck and Toyota count global full lineups tailored to local needs among their corporate strengths and ― toward achieving carbon neutrality ― value multi-pathways that provide diverse options based on local conditions and how their customers use vehicles.

Martin Daum, CEO of Daimler Truck said, "We at Daimler Truck are very proud of our products, because trucks and buses keep the world moving. And soon they will even do so with zero emissions. So there is a great future ahead―and today's announcement is a crucial step in making that future work economically and in leading sustainable transportation. The planned new company will be a major force in Southeast Asia and an important associate of the Daimler Truck family."

Koji Sato, CEO of Toyota Motor Corp said, "This collaboration among our four companies is a partnership for creating the future of commercial vehicles in Japan and the future of mobility society."


Peugeot in Malaysia announces new line-up for 2017

                PETALING JAYA: Nasim Sdn Bhd, the official distributor for Automobiles Peugeot in Malaysia, announced five new models for 2017 and they include the 208 PureTech, 2008 SUV PureTech, all-new 3008 SUV, Traveller and all-new 5008 SUV.

Members of the media were also treated to an early preview of the upcoming new 208 PureTech and 2008 SUV PureTech at its annual media appreciation night.

Winner of the 2015 and 2016 'International Engine of the Year' awards, the PureTech engine is the best in class when it comes to fuel efficiency with 4.2 litre for every 100km and churns out 205Nm of torque as early as 1,500rpm.

Datuk Samson Anand George, Group Chief Operating Officer, Automotive Group, Naza Corporation Holdings, said “In the coming year, we are gearing up to be bigger and better in terms of our offerings as well as services to our customers. As our customer base continues to grow, we are more committed than ever in delivering excellent aftersales services to enhance the customer experience.

"To us, our customers are our priority and we look forward to serve them well in years to come. It is our promise to ensure that our customers will be able to experience the drive of their life through a wide range of offerings from Peugeot.”

Despite being a challenging year for the automobile industry in 2016, Peugeot Malaysia prevailed with the successful launch of the new Peugeot 408 e-THP which embodied First Class for All design philosophy, a design that captivates and impresses.

The new model has received positive response from the public, and Peugeot Malaysia aims to build on this success with the new exciting models in 2017.

In 2016, Nasim announced an investment of RM5 million to ensure customers’ satisfaction. This is a testament of Peugeot’s promise towards refining their customer service through the implementation of various services for customers to have peace of mind.

These services include setting up a new Technical Centre, Body & Paint Centre as well as offering 3 years of Roadside Assistance at no charge. Peugeot will continue to further strengthen this in 2017.

For more information on Peugeot Malaysia, please visit www.peugeot.com.my.


Nvidia superchip dives into self-driving cars

                At the 2015 International CES, Nvidia CEO Jen-Hsun Huang took the wraps off two new automotive computers that will be able to give the digital dashboard of the future a photo-realistic feel and cope with all of the incredibly complex processing that will be needed in order for self-driving cars to travel collision-free.

The Nvidia Drive PX packs the same punch as a turn of the Millennium supercomputer, uses two processors and can simultaneously crunch through data coming from 12 individual high-resolution cameras.

At the moment, the most technologically advanced cars use a combination of sensor types, including cameras, in order to navigate the road ahead, stay in lane and maintain a safe distance from the car in front.

However, the next generation of these systems, which will bring fully-autonomous driving one step closer to reality, will do away with other sensors for higher resolution cameras, capable of capturing and identifying greater and greater levels of detail.

"Mobile supercomputing will be central to tomorrow's car," said Jen-Hsun Huang.

"With vast arrays of cameras and displays, cars of the future will see and increasingly understand their surroundings. Whether finding their way back to you from a parking spot or using situational awareness to keep out of harm's way, future cars will do many amazing, seemingly intelligent things. Advances in computer vision, deep learning and graphics have finally put this dream within reach."

The Drive PX is already capable of enabling a car to find a parking space and to park itself even in a crowded garage and has the learning capabilities to be able to discern different types of vehicle - from police cars to delivery vans and whether a car is parked or waiting to pull away.

While the Drive PX is monitoring what's going on outside, the Drive CX computer powers the car's digital dashboard and can even keep a digital eye on the driver. Capable of powering 16.8 million pixels across multiple displays, Nvidia claims that the computer's graphical capabilities are 10 times that of the current best systems.

This level of detail means that a digital rendering of a rev counter or speedometer will look as good as an analogue gauge and will bend and appear to move depending on the driver's line of sight.

The Drive CX can also support everything from navigation and infotainment to offering 360 degree views of the car's exterior for eliminating blind spots.

In a related CES development, Daimler on Monday showed its vision of the driverless car, a prototype vehicle that allows four passengers to face each other as the vehicle finds its way.

"In the future, the car brings access to the single most important luxury goods of the 21st century private space and quality time," said Daimler chief Dieter Zetsche, as he unveiled the self-driving Mercedes-Benz luxury sedan F 015.

Vehicles, he said, "will be exclusive cocoons on wheels that enable people to do exactly what they want."

The futuristic designed car with a sweeping curved form factor still has a steering wheel, unlike the Google driverless vehicle, but the driver's seat and front passenger seat can pivot to allow the vehicle to become a "private retreat," according to Daimler.

"This is what we believe will be next in the terms of the car's design, concept and communication," Zetsche said.

The prototype was to take a driver along the Las Vegas Strip later Monday before being put on display at the huge tech show set to open Tuesday.

The show is devoting an increasing amount of space to automotive technology, including vehicles that offer some autonomy and greater connectivity.


TNG launches GOProtect insurance platform

                KUALA LUMPUR: TNG Digital Sdn Bhd (TNG Digital), owner and operator of the Touch ‘n Go eWallet (eWallet) has introduced GOprotect, a platform which allows users to buy various types of insurance offerings conveniently through the eWallet app.

GOprotect offers six insurance products via the eWallet app, namely WalletSafe, SafeTrip, SafeHome, CarInsure, CI Insure, and MotoInsure to cover various customers’ needs.

"With GOprotect, eWallet users can purchase an insurance plan in less than three minutes after comparing quotes from our leading insurance partners such as AlA Malaysia, Allianz, Etiqa, MSIG, Takaful Ikhlas, Takaful Malaysia, and Zurich Takaful.

"Users are also guaranteed a hassle-free claim process through the round-the-clock insurers’ claim hotline,” it said.

Speaking to reporters during the launch today, TNG Digital chief executive officer Alan Ni said that more than two million policies have been issued via the eWallet since the launch of its first insurance product in July 2021, adding that 1.5 million policies were issued last year.

"We plan on doubling the number of policies issued this year and will continue to improve the overall insurance penetration, especially among the B40 group, where it is still very low at only 30 per cent.

"By working closely with our trusted insurance partners, TNG eWallet will introduce more value-for-money insurance products in the near future," he said.

Ni said the company has always envisioned TNG eWallet becoming a one-stop alternative to banking solutions, enabling users to access a full suite of financial services products.

"We are one step closer to that vision with the launch of GOprotect today, and we will continue to build that pipeline by working with various partners to grow our financial services offerings which will benefit and add value for our users,” he added.

Those who wish for more information on GOprotect may visit https://www.touchngo.com.my/consumer/insurance.


A VW Golf R rebuilt for the racetrack

WOLFSBURG: Volkswagen Motorsport is developing its first racing car based on the seventh-generation Golf.

The production-based, 325hp concept car is assembled in accordance with TCR (Touringcar Racer) regulations and is intended to help Volkswagen evaluate a potential customer racing programme from the 2016 season onwards.

To accelerate the development of the car, the new Golf will be tested under competitive conditions between now and the end of the season: as cooperation partner, the Liqui Moly Team Engstler will run two cars at the eighth round of the TCR at the Red Bull Ring in Spielberg, Austria.

“The newly created TCR category provides a promising platform for customer racing – on a national and international level. With exciting races, production-based technology and reasonable costs, it offers a new outlook for private racing teams,” said Volkswagen Motorsport director Jost Capito.

“When developing the Golf-based concept car, we are able to fall back on the resources at Volkswagen. This reduces both development time and costs. We will also use the rest of the season to test the car under competitive conditions and evaluate a possible customer racing project from 2016.”

Visually, the concept car features 18-inch racing rims, a chassis roughly 40cm wider than that of the production Golf, and a striking rear wing to the Golf a "ready-to-race" look and first-class handling.

An aerodynamically designed front splitter and carbon rear wing are also among the modifications for the racetrack. Among the components designed to protect the driver are a racing seat with head protectors, a racing safety cell, and a safety tank in accordance with FIA regulations.

The 2.0-litre turbo engine with direct fuel injection comes from the top sporting model, the Golf R. The racing version of this engine generates 325hp and 410Nm of torque.

Volkswagen Motorsport is developing the car in cooperation with the sport department at SEAT, meaning it can call on SEAT’s experience with the Leon Cup Racer. As with the Volkswagen Group’s production vehicles, the MQB platform also offers many synergies for racing cars and reduces the cost of assembling and running the touring car.


Get ready to join that Zoom meeting in your Tesla

                SAN JOSE: Zoom recently announced that its famous video conferencing service will soon be available in Tesla cars.

That will make it possible for you to take part in a Zoom meeting from behind the wheel of your car... but only when you are not moving!

This means that while you're charging your car on a Supercharger or taking a break at a highway rest stop, you'll be able to sit behind the wheel of your Tesla and connect to a video conference. Eventually, the idea is to be able to use Zoom from anywhere, so that you don't have to miss any meeting.

Of course it's already possible to participate in a Zoom meeting from your car, simply by using the dedicated application on your smartphone.

But this is the first time it gets integrated into a car's onboard system. The app uses the camera inside the Tesla to stream the user, who will be able to see the other meeting participants on the central screen of his car.

However, don't even think about using it while driving; Zoom can only be activated when the car is stopped.

Zoom will be available as "standard on all new Tesla models soon."

We can bet that most of the current owners will also be entitled to it, via a simple remote update.

Technically, Zoom has not yet specified what type of connection will be used to access its services, whether it will be via a simple local Wi-Fi network or via a paid subscription to a premium connection.


2018 Bangkok Motor Show: 2018 Toyota Yaris ATIV in TRD kit

                BANGKOK: Toyota Motor Thailand is showcasing a TRD kitted version of its popular Yaris ATIV compact car sedan at the 2018 Bangkok Motor Show.

The TRD kit is aimed at those who want a sporty look with a sleek, aggressive rear spoiler.

Launched in August 2017, the new Yaris ATIV is classed under Thailand's eco-car programme, and is powered by a 1.2-litre Dual VVT-i engine mated to a Super CVT-i automatic transmission.

Its petrol consumption is rated at 5 litres per 100km or 20km per litre (combined cycle).

Running on 185/60 R15 tyres, the Yaris ATIV is also engineered to run on E20 biofuel (blend of 20% ethanol and 80%
petrol).

There are five variants priced from 479,000 Baht (RM59,218) to 635,000 Baht (RM78,505).

The Yaris, known as Vitz in Japan, was originally sculpted by Toyota Design Development in France.

The Yaris was introduced in 2006 for the first time in Thailand as a premium compact hatchback.

In joining Thailand's eco-car programme, Toyota introduced the 1.2-litre Yaris in October 2013 exclusively in Thailand.

The Yaris hatchback was the best-selling model in the Thai passenger car segment for 3 consecutive years with over 150,000 accumulated sales (sales of the 1.2-litre Yaris from October 2013 - July 2017).

MORE PHOTOS: 2018 Toyota Yaris ATIV (range-topping Grade S)


Haval Rocks The Town tour kicks off

SHAH ALAM: Go Auto Sales Sdn Bhd, (Haval Malaysia) the exclusive distributor for Haval in Malaysia, officially launched the ‘Haval Rocks The Town’ tour at their central region roadshow in AEON Mall, Shah Alam.The event is held as part as the Haval Malaysia's recent 'Reimagine' campaign.
Haval Rocks The Town tour is one of the ways for the brand to get closer to the Malaysian public where Haval Malaysia will be showcasing its SUV models in addition to many activities planned for all age groups.At their mall roadshow in Shah Alam, special appearances by local celebrities, Aedy Ashraf – Haval H1 recently appointed social media influencer - and Rozita Che Wan, Haval H2 model ambassador.
“Our Reimagine campaign, just began recently with HAVAL Rocks The Town tour last weekend where our crew, called Haval Hollerz roam the roads of Kuala Lumpur and had fun activities with the public through the karaoke contest in our H2 and the same time they will be able to checkout both our H1 and H2 models in person.

"In a way, we’re bringing our SUVs to you and hope that any potential customers will reimagine their dream car,” said executive director of Go Auto Group, Datuk SM Azli SM Nasimuddin Kamal.

The Haval Rocks The Town tour fun filled activities include Catch the Haval Hollerz – a photo contest, Haval Carocks – a karaoke contest where those participate to upload the video on the Instragram and Facebook and those will the most likes will be able to be the monthly winner, Haval Movez - is a dance competition open to all dance enthusiast and all contestant can join the competition as a group or as a solo performance will be held at in shopping malls during Haval's roadshow.

Participants stands a chance to win RM500 at all eight preliminary rounds and RM4,000 cash prize at the Final Dance Off.

In addition, during the Haval mall roadshows, additional activities such as Haval Kidz Colouring Contest, Photo contest with our Haval SUVs, performances by clowns are available to entice the public.
For more information of the reimagine campaign visit http://reimagine.haval.my/. Customers can contact Customer Care at 03-5569 7332 or email us customercare@goauto.com.my.You can also visit www.haval.my or our official Facebook page at www.facebook.com/havalmy or instagram page at www.instagram.com/havalmy.


VW to invest in mines in bid to become global battery supplier

                BERLIN: Volkswagen plans to invest in mines to bring down the cost of battery cells, meet half of its own demand and sell to third-party customers, the carmaker's board member in charge of technology said.

Europe's biggest carmaker wants its battery unit PowerCo to become a global battery supplier, not just produce for Volkswagen's own needs, Thomas Schmall told Reuters in an interview.

PowerCo will start by delivering cells to Ford for the 1.2 million vehicles the US carmaker is building in Europe on Volkswagen's electric MEB platform, he said.

Long-term, Volkswagen plans to build enough cells to meet half its global battery needs, with most production capacity located in Europe and North America, according to Schmall.

"The bottleneck for raw materials is mining capacity - that's why we need to invest in mines directly," he said.

The carmaker was partnering on supply deals with mining companies in Canada, where it will build its first North American battery plant.

Schmall declined to comment on further locations under consideration or where or when Volkswagen might invest directly in mines, saying the company would not disclose that information until the market was more settled.

"In future, there will be a select number of battery standards. Through our large volume and third-party sales business, we want to be one of those standards," he said.

Ambitious roadmap

Making or sourcing batteries at a reasonable cost is a key challenge for carmakers like Volkswagen, Tesla and Stellantis as they seek to make electric vehicles (EVs) affordable.

Only Tesla has pledged more investment into battery production than Volkswagen, according to a Reuters analysis - though even the US EV maker is struggling to ramp up production and is recruiting Asian suppliers to help.

Few carmakers have disclosed direct stakes in mines, but many have struck deals with producers to source materials like lithium, nickel and cobalt and pass them onto their battery suppliers.

PowerCo, set up last year, is targeting 20 billion euros in annual sales by 2030.

It's an ambitious roadmap for a unit not yet producing at scale. Production will start in 2025 at PowerCo's plant in Salzgitter, Germany, 2026 in Valencia, Spain and 2027 in Ontario, Canada.

Still, Schmall is confident the carmaker can expand quickly - and must do so if it wants to build an affordable EV, in which 40% of the costs come from the battery.

Volkswagen released on Thursday the details of a 25,000-euro EV it aims to sell in Europe from 2025.

China's BYD, which also produces batteries, is far ahead of Volkswagen in the affordable EV race and outsold the German carmaker for the second time in four months in China in February.

Reducing costs

In Volkswagen's 180-billion-euro five year spending plan, up to 15 billion is earmarked for its three announced battery plants and some raw material sourcing.

The carmaker has so far nailed down raw material supply until 2026 - by which time the German and Spanish plants will be in operation - and will decide in the next few months how to meet its demand from then on, Schmall said in the interview.

It has also ordered some $14 billion in batteries from Northvolt's Swedish plant.

"Bringing down battery costs further is a challenge," Schmall said. "We're using all the instruments with PowerCo."

Asian producers like CATL, LG Chem and Samsung SDI dominate global cell production, with almost half of planned battery cell capacity in Europe by Asian players.

Half the staff at Volkswagen's PowerCo are industry veterans from Asia, Schmall said, enabling the battery unit to enter the industry at the top of the learning curve.


Malaysian riders in SAATC

                PETALING JAYA: Five young Malaysian riders, aged between 15 and 18, will be among 22 riders from across Asia and Australia competing for honours in the 2015 season of the Shell Advance Asia Talent Cup (SAATC).

Four riders who competed in the inaugural season last year - Adam Norrodin, 16; Fakhrusy Syakirin Rostam, 18; Helmi Azman, 15 and Shafiq Rasol, 18 - will be joined by new rider Azroy Anuar, 15.

The SAATC is a competition that promotes the best young talent from world of motorcycle racing, giving them a formal path into competitive road racing.

The Cup is led in part by renowned talent scout Alberto Puig, the legendary Spanish ex-racer.

Puig, who is also the leader of the successful MotoGP Academy, hand-picked the 2015 season riders who will compete over six rounds in Thailand (March 22), Qatar (March 29), Malaysia (Aug 2), China (Sept 20), Japan (Oct 11) and Malaysia (Oct 25).

This year, Japan will be represented by seven riders. Indonesia and Thailand will have three riders each while China has two. Australia and Philippines will be represented by one rider each.

Riders will race on Honda NSF250R Moto3 bikes powered by Shell V-Power racing fuel and lubricated with the new Shell Advance Ultra with PurePlus Technology fully synthetic motorcycle engine oil.

Shell PurePlus Technology is a revolutionary gas-to-liquid (GTL) process that converts natural gas into crystal-clear base oil with virtually none of the impurities found in crude oil.

GTL base oil delivers higher levels of cleansing and superior wear and corrosion protection.

Speaking at the presentation of the Malaysian riders for the 2015 SAATC, Shell Lubricants cluster general manager - Southeast Asia, Troy Chapman, said,"Shell Advance is honoured to support the second year of this exciting championship. For the many budding talents across Asia, SAATC is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to train and race at a very competitive and professional level under expert guidance."


Audi A5 Sportback launched, two variants from RM351K

                PETALING JAYA: The new Audi A5 Sportback has been launched in Malaysia and now features a tauter look, with cutting-edge MMI touch operating system as well as a mild hybrid technology for greater fuel consumption.

It is available in two variants: Audi A5 2.0 TFSI priced at RM350,900 and Audi A5 Sportback Advanced 2.0 TFSI priced at RM377,900. All prices are on-the-road without insurance.

Audi has significantly revised the exterior, with the front end, in particular, exuding an even more powerful resolve as with the honeycomb grille is flatter and wider. While the ventilation slits above the grille are reminiscent of the classic Audi Sport quattro from 1984.

A bold blade forms the lower edge of the bumper, which features larger air inlets. A new sill provides for a slimmer appearance when viewed from the side and a diffuser insert with trapezoidal tailpipes makes the rear more athletic.

With its new MMI touch system, the highly connected Audi A5 offers a user experience similar to a contemporary smartphone. A 10.1-inch touch display with acoustic feedback replaces the rotary pushbutton used in previous models.

It comes standard with the top-of-the-line MMI navigation plus infotainment control center integrated with Audi Smartphone Interface, for both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.

The updated Audi A5 range comes to Malaysia with two 2.0 TFSI engine and drivetrain combination; a 150hp and 249hp.

Both are paired to the efficient and sporty seven-speed S tronic transmission while the latter version, which comes in the “advanced” trim level, also feature quattro drive with ultra technology.

Both powertrains feature the mild hybrid system (MHEV) integrated into the 12-volt electrical system. Central to the mild hybrid system is the belt alternator starter (BAS), which is connected to the crankshaft.

The Audi A5 is able to coast with the engine switched off between 55 and 160 kph. During this time, the lithium-ion battery powers the electrical consumers.

The start-stop range operates from as low as 22kph. When the accelerator is depressed, the BAS restarts the engine quickly and smoothly.

In a real-world, everyday operation, the MHEV system can reduce fuel consumption by up to 0.3 liters per 100km according to Audi. measurements.

The updated Audi A5 Sportback is available at all Audi showrooms, including the new Audi Online Showroom.


Light green shade for cars to dominate in Asia Pacific come 2021, says BASF

                FRANKFURT: A muted shade of green is expected to be the top colour choice for cars sold in the Asia Pacific in 2021, according to German automotive coatings maker BASF.

Asia Pacific’s key colours reflect a positive, flexible attitude for change, action and the future. They are warm and emotional colours with a steady mood. They are not black or white, but more blurred and floating, like human emotion.

“Individuality is the trend in play here. We live for today and want to make the future better,” said Chiharu Matsuhara, head of design, Asia Pacific.

“We try to enjoy life and be positive as much as possible, and change what we did in the past.”

The findings are part of BASF's 2020-2021 Automotive Colour Trends for various parts of the world.

Other global key colours are a warm beige for EMEA (Europe, the Middle East and Africa) and coarse gray for North America.

Designers of BASF’s Coatings division around the globe created the collection, called CODE-X, with everything from new, reimagined whites, to the darkest of jet blacks, and a variety of vibrant colour spaces in-between.

Every year, the designers of BASF’s Coatings division study future trends which they use as foundation for the development of surface, texture and colour positions. They draw inspiration from many things, including industry, fashion, consumer products, and nature. They share their research with BASF’s customers – the automotive designers – and help develop the colours of the future.

The colours serve as inspiration to automotive designers for vehicles that will be on the road in three to five years. Many have effects or textures, making them a tactile as well as a visual and emotional experience.


Supercar Blondie is ahead of the line with Lexus LFA successor

                LOS ANGELES: YouTuber Supercar Blondie has something to crow about. She has been given first access to the Electrified Sport concept car that is set to be the successor to the Lexus LFA.

In a video that has drawn over 1 million views since it was posted on Aug 17, the celebrity made an entrance with a Toyota forklift to "drag" a crate into a warehouse here to unpack the all-electric supercar.

Australian Alexandra Mary Hirschi aka Supercar Blondie then performed a walkaround of the car, which made its public debut in June at the 2022 Goodwood Festival of Speed in Britain.

The swoopy coupe features some design cues of the LFA that was motivated by a naturally aspirated 4.8-litre V10 engine making 553hp. Lexus ended production of the LFA in 2012.

But the as yet unnamed successor is expected to offer up to 800hp with a 0-100kph sprint in just over 2s.

The interior has been blacked out as much of the details have yet to be worked out but a simulated manual gearbox is rumoured to be in the works for the two-seat supercar.


2017 Geneva Motor Show: Audi RS 5 Coupé

                GENEVA: The all-new Audi RS 5 Coupé makes its world debut at the 87th annual Geneva Motor Show this week, delivering phenomenal pace from its brand new V6 biturbo TFSI, a lighter overall weight and a healthy hike in torque.

“The new Audi RS 5 Coupé is the gran turismo among the RS models from Audi Sport,” said Stephan Winkelmann, CEO of Audi Sport.

The RS 5 Coupé is also the first car to bear the new Audi RS design idiom that will be introduced to the Audi Sport range.

The designers drew inspiration for the RS 5 Coupé from the distinctive racing details of the Audi 90 quattro IMSA GTO.

Massive air inlets with the honeycomb structure typical of RS models characterise the front end of the new Audi RS 5 Coupé.

The Singleframe radiator grille is much wider and flatter than in the base model.

The RS 5 Coupé rolls as standard on 19-inch wheels, with 20-inch wheels available as an option.

With a length of 4,723 millimetres, the new Audi RS 5 Coupé is 74 millimetres longer than the previous model.

Packing a mighty punch, the car’s all-new 2.9 TFSI biturbo engine produces 450PS and delivers 600 Nm of torque, with a charismatic soundtrack that is reminiscent of the V6 TFSI housed in the original B5 RS 4.

It produces 450PS and peak torque of 600 Nm – up 170 Nm from the previous model – is available across a wide band from 1,900 to 5,000 rpm.

The top model in the A5 family sprints from 0 to 62mph in 3.9 seconds.

Two turbochargers are positioned centrally between the cylinder banks of the 2.9 TFSI unit.

According to the NEDC, the V6 biturbo is capable of a fuel efficiency gain of 17 percent over the previous model.

Another factor in the greater fuel efficiency of the new RS 5 Coupé is its significantly lower weight.

It tips the scales at 1,655 kilograms, 60 kilograms less than before.

The biturbo’s power flows through a eight-speed tiptronic to the quattro permanent all-wheel drive.

The drive forces are distributed asymmetrically to the axles (40:60) to guarantee dynamic handling with optimal traction and the greatest possible safety. Audi Sport also offers a rear sport differential.

Audi Sport also offers the RS sport suspension with Dynamic Ride Control (DRC), ceramic brakes and dynamic steering with RS-specific tuning.

The Audi smartphone interface uses Apple Car Play and Android Auto to make selected apps available in a separate MMI menu.

The touchpad in the centre console is used to zoom, scroll and enter characters.


American duo jailed by Tokyo court for helping Ghosn flee Japan

Ghosn. — AP

TOKYO: A Tokyo court today doled out the first sentences in Japan related to Carlos Ghosn's arrest and escape, imprisoning US Army Special Forces veteran Michael Taylor for two years and his son Peter for one year and eight months for helping the former Nissan Motor Co Ltd chairman flee to Lebanon in 2019.

"This case enabled Ghosn, a defendant of serious crime, to escape overseas," Hideo Nirei, the chief judge, said while explaining the judgement. "One year and a half has passed, but there is no prospect of the trial being held."

Wearing dark suits and flanked by four guards, the two remained silent during their 20-minute appearance at the Tokyo District Court.

Nirei said the elder Taylor played a "leading role" in the escape by escorting Ghosn onto the jet, while his son had taken care of his luggage and provided him with a key to a hotel room where he changed clothes.
 Michael Taylor.
The two men, who had faced up to three years in prison, pleaded guilty and made a tearful apology to the court last month, saying they regretted their role in smuggling Ghosn out of Japan hidden in a box aboard a private jet from Japan’s Kansai airport at the end of 2019.

Prosecutors said the Taylors received US$1.3 million (RM5.5mil) for expenses and as payment, with another US$500,000 (RM2.2mil) for legal fees.

A Turkish court in February convicted Turkish company MNG and two pilots for their role in Ghosn's escape, sentencing the pilots to four years and two months in jail.

The Taylors were arrested in the United States in May 2020, but did not arrive in Japan until March because their lawyers sought to prevent their extradition, arguing that they could not be prosecuted for helping someone "bail jump" and that they could face relentless interrogation and torture.

Suspects in Japan are interrogated without their lawyers present and are often denied bail before trial.

Ghosn remains a fugitive in his childhood home of Lebanon, which doesn't have an extradition treaty with Japan.

In Japan, he faces charges he understated his compensation in Nissan's financial statements by 9.3 billion yen (RM359mil) over a decade and enriched himself at his employer's expense through payments to car dealerships in the Middle East.

Greg Kelly, a former Nissan executive charged with helping Ghosn hide his compensation, is also on trial in Tokyo, with a judgment expected next year. Both Ghosn and Kelly deny the charges.

The Taylors have 14 days to appeal the verdict and sentence.