CIA 'mission' on cars shows concern about next-generation vehicles

                SAN FRANCISCO: WikiLeaks documents showing the US Central Intelligence Agency considered a "mission" against connected car technology underscores auto industry concern that the science behind the next generation of vehicles could be turned against them.

Cyber security is considered key to the rollout of tomorrow's self-driving and today's connected cars, which resemble computers on wheels with a host of communications routes that hackers could target.

If consumers are to trust smart vehicles, they must deem them safe from attack. Security experts cite the terrifying hypothetical example of a remote attack on a fully autonomous vehicle with no steering wheel or brakes, in which the passenger would have no recourse to regain manual control of the car.

"You have a lot of car companies trying to design cars to be better suited to automation, which means they're more attractive to hackers," said auto consultant Roger Lanctot of Strategy Analytics.

READ MORE:
HARMAN devises onion-like security system to check car hacking

A major strategy for automakers is to reduce the number of communications gateways to crucial systems and to require services offered by third parties to go through a single secure path.

WikiLeaks documents show the CIA citing "vehicle systems" and a car operating system from QNX, owned by Blackberry Ltd, as "potential mission areas" for the CIA's "Embedded Devices Branch" to consider.

The QNX operating system, which is used by most global automakers, provides a "a comprehensive, multi-level, policy-driven security model ... to mitigate attacks," the company said in a statement to Reuters. But given the collection of software, hardware and network components that make up a connected car, "security is only as strong as its weakest link," it said.

While the CIA's interest in cars brought widespread attention, the industry has already received wakeup calls about cars' potential to be hacked.

Researchers in 2015 used a wireless connection to turn off a Jeep Cherokee's engine, prompting a recall of 1.4 million vehicles by Fiat Chrysler Automobiles.

In September last year, Chinese cyber security researchers hacked a Tesla Inc Model S sedan, remotely tapping the brakes and popping the trunk. The electric carmaker subsequently patched the bugs using an over-the-air fix. Tesla did not respond to a request for comment on its cyber security protocol.

The hacking of the Jeep and the Tesla "brought it home to the industry that even if its improbable it's technically possible," said Mark Wakefield, global co-head of the automotive practice at AlixPartners.

If a car was seen as vulnerable, it "could be a big brand problem," Wakefield said. Hacks could also expose private information shared between car and third parties - credit card numbers, account numbers or passwords - to theft.

A January survey by the University of Michigan's Transportation Research Institute found that 33 percent of respondents said they were "extremely concerned" over hacking of full self-driving cars to cause crashes.

The number of ways into cars has proliferated, from cell phone signals to dongles. One such gateway is the standard OBD-II port found under the steering wheel historically used for onboard diagnostics. Today, hundreds of after-market devices use the port, whether to monitor driving for insurance needs or provide conveniences like safety alerts.

"The security of these devices is important, as it can provide an attacker with a means of accessing vehicle systems and driver data remotely," warned the FBI in a March 2016 bulletin on cyber security risks to motor vehicles.

Carmakers are also building walls between non-crucial infotainment systems and driving controls so that any breach is blocked before it could compromise key functions like brakes.

The first step the industry is tackling is intrusion detection, said Lanctot. But what to do when a breach is detected is complicated, because shutting off parts of a car could be unsafe, he said.

Tesla was first to champion "over-the-air" technology in which wireless software updates are sent remotely to cars. Although some have argued such updates are a way in for hackers, Tesla and others see them a key protection to upgrade security and repair vulnerabilities quickly.

In January, US lawmakers introduced a bill calling for cyber security standards for new cars but so far US regulators have issued recommendations, not rules, on how carmakers should shield their computer systems from hackers.

The industry is "years away" from solving the cyber security problem, Lanctot said, noting that the first generation of cars built after the Jeep hack that include some kind of detection capabilities will not be seen until early in 2018.


Cycle & Carriage presents study grants to five automotive students

                PETALING JAYA: Cycle & Carriage continues its commitment in creating exceptional journeys for its community by providing financial assistance to deserving underprivileged youths and a chance to grow their career in the automotive field.

For the third year running, C&C awarded five students the Cycle & Carriage Study Grant 2021, a financial aid that offers the opportunity for technical and vocational education in the automotive sector.

The students who were awarded the coveted study grant that will lead to a placement at Cycle & Carriage includes Teshvinder Singh a/l Sarjit Singh, 19, Lee Kai Jing, 20, and Lim Chin Lun, 19, who are pursuing a Diploma in Automotive Technology.

Meanwhile, award recipient A. Shamstephen, 19, is pursuing a City & Guilds Diploma, while Vinod Vasudevan, 20, is studying a Master Technician Course.

The 2021 Cycle & Carriage Study Grant is a programme that was designed to help students from the B40 group who are keen to pursue or are already pursuing automotive studies.

The grant includes a bursary of RM5,000 per annum for a maximum of three years.

Upon completion of their studies, the students will start their career with a year-long position in C&C.

Applicants of the 2021 Cycle & Carriage Study Grant must be Malaysians and of ages 16 years and above who are enrolled in an automotive training institution accredited by the Department for Skills Development (DSD) of the Ministry of Human Resources or Ministry of Higher Education (MOHE).

 Tok signing the study grant agreement.

Cycle & Carriage CEO Thomas Tok said the company has always been committed to creating exceptional journeys and placing people at heart of the organisation’s vision and mission.

“We are constantly looking for ways to nurture the next generation of quality talents who can provide the exceptional services that we cultivate here at Cycle & Carriage. With this study grant, we are thrilled to welcome the next generation of talents to our team into the field of automotive,” Tok said at the award ceremony held at Cycle & Carriage Petaling Jaya recently.


MAA expects TIV to drop to 650,000 units in 2023, down from 2022's record 720,658

                PETALING JAYA: Malaysia is projected to record a total industry volume (TIV) of 650,000 units in 2023, down 9.8 per cent from the 720,658 units registered last year, said the Malaysian Automotive Association (MAA).

Its president, Datuk Aishah Ahmad, said passenger and commercial vehicles were expected to achieve sales of 585,000 and 65,000 units, respectively, this year.

"The main reason for the decline in our TIV forecast is the end of the sales tax exemption on March 31, 2023.

"After that period, there is no sales tax exemption and most customers have already placed the orders forward. That is why we expect that after the first quarter of 2023 (1Q 2023), the orders will drop and slow down,” she said during a press conference on motor traders and manufacturers’ performance here today.

Aishah noted that MAA had considered the economic and environmental factors in its forecast for the TIV in 2023, namely the global economic growth that is expected to slow down and may even fall into a recession this year.

"The slowdown of the global economy is among the factors that are expected to contribute to the decline of the TIV because it impacts sales and prices will go up.

"Our currency is also weakened compared to foreign currencies, hence, if we buy at a higher price (manufacturing cost), we cannot afford to sell it at loss,” she said.

Among others, Aishah said the rush to deliver backlog orders exempted from the sales tax before the end of March 2023 might provide impetus to sales, particularly in the passenger vehicles category in 1Q 2023.

"Introduction of many new models with the latest technology advancements and many new electric vehicles (EVs) at affordable and competitive prices should entice and sustain buying interest among consumers.

"The automotive industry continues to face challenges and supply chain issues such as the semiconductor chip shortage, uncertainties in geo-political tension, and the possible resurgence of COVID-19 cases worldwide, among others, which may affect the country’s economic growth momentum and disrupt sales of new vehicles,” Aishah highlighted.

She said MAA also appeals to the government for EV incentives to be extended for a longer period, until 2030, and not just on a yearly basis.

Meanwhile, Aishah said the historic all-time high TIV recorded in 2022 was attributed to the pent-up demand for new vehicles, especially during the first half of 2022 (1H2022); the authorities’ decision to allow buyers with confirmed bookings (with sales tax exemption and bookings submitted before June 30, 2022) to register their new passenger vehicles by March 31, 2023; and partially due to the low base effect.

She also said the low TIV in 1H2021 was due to the implementation of the full movement control order (FMCO) in June 2021.

The total registration of new passenger vehicles in 2022 rose to 641,773 units from 452,486 units in 2021, an increase of 189,287 units or 41.8 per cent.

The commercial vehicles segment also registered a high growth of 39.9 per cent or 22,488 units to reach 78,885 units.

"The improvement in sales of commercial vehicles was due to increasing demand as companies started to invest in anticipation of an economic rebound after two years of slowdown due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic,” she said.

The total industry production (TIP) of new vehicles in 2022 increased by 220,624 units or 45.8 per cent to reach a total of 702,275 units compared to 481,651 units in 2021.


Shell Malaysia extends 'Ekstra' promotion

                KUALA LUMPUR: Shell Malaysia is delighting customers during the Hari Raya Aidilfitri season with the “Ekstra Ganjaran Setiap Hari” BonusLink loyalty programme promotion.

The extended promotion allows customers up to four times points from now until July 31, and getting extra value every time they fuel up at Shell stations.

To join, customers need to swipe their BonusLink card, or use the BLINK app at Shell and pump a minimum of RM50 of Shell FuelSave 95, Shell V-Power 97, or Shell V-Power Racing fuels in a single receipt.

Customers can multiply their points by double, triple, and even quadruple when they make up to four visits per month.

The point multiplication is only applicable within the same month and will reset on the first of every month, until July 31.

Customers can sign up for BonusLink at any Shell station nationwide or register by downloading the BLINK app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.

“In the spirit of Hari Raya Aidilfitri, we are giving extra rewards to our customers through the extension of the BonusLink loyalty programme promotion," said Shell Malaysia Trading Sdn Bhd and Shell Timur Sdn Bhd managing director Shairan Huzani Husain.

For more information on Shell Malaysia and its initiatives, visit www.shell.com.my.


Parking, bike share, taxis: will we soon be able to pay for everything in Google Maps ?

                SAN FRANCISCO: Google Maps is integrating more and more services into its platform, from bike sharing to street parking and car battery charging.

As Maps enables access to an increasing number of services, most of the times users are rerouted to dedicated applications.

But Google would like to consolidate it all, by providing a payment service without the user exiting Maps.

Google is already testing this new integrated feature in Austin, Texas, thanks to local parking service Passport.

Drivers can now pay directly in Maps, via Google Pay.

In a near future, Google Maps will be able to integrate dozens of services, therefore limiting the need to download multiple third party apps.


Sepang circuit gets fast and furious

Track staff scrutinising the safety and medical cars at the Sepang circuit.
SEPANG: Fasten your seat belts and get set for the furious action that’s coming to town.The much awaited event of the year is back.

Preparations have now kicked into high gear at the Sepang International Circuit for the upcoming Formula One Petronas Malaysia Grand Prix next weekend.

Sepang International Circuit chief executive officer Datuk Razlan Razali said the Formula One Management (FOM) containers have arrived and were being set up.

“FOM circuit engineers are also in the midst of laying cables for time keeping and broadcasting.

“The work on the equipment is already 50% completed,” he said.

A site visit by The Star saw engineers scrutinising the Mercedes-AMG GT S safety car and Mercedes-AMG C63 S Estate medical car at the pit lane.

The engineers were also spotted inspecting the cables.

“This will be the first time we are hosting two international motorsports events in the same month.

“Yes, it is going to be a hectic time ahead but we are very excited to be the host,” he said.

The Formula One Petronas Malaysia Grand Prix will run from Sept 30 to Oct 2 while the MotoGP is from Oct 28-30.

Fans should also come prepared with umbrellas and raincoats as October is expected to be a wet month.

Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation Datuk Seri Madius Tangau said scattered rain had been forecast for early in the month, followed by thunderstorms towards the end.

“In general, during the Formula One race, the Malaysian Meteorological Department has predicted isolated showers over the coastal areas.

“Isolated thunderstorms are also expected during the MotoGP,” he said.

Formula One Petronas Malaysia Grand Prix has a reputation for an unpredictable outcome.

In 2012, the pitwall radar showed steady showers 10 minutes before the race. Due to heavy rain, the race was suspended on Lap 9.

Fernando Alonso of Scuderia Ferrari won the race after it resumed.

The following year, the race began with a damp track which saw Sebastian Vettel of Red Bull Racing Formula One team emerging victorious.


Should you be keeping a spare fuel canister in the car?

                BERLIN: It used to be common to pack a spare fuel canister when setting off on a longer journey by car. The fear of not making it to the next filling station was ever present.

But does it still make sense nowadays? How should motorists secure the canister, and is extra fuel even allowed on board?

Achmed Leser, an accident expert from technical inspection service Tuv says a spare fuel reserve is unnecessary. "With a measured driving style, modern vehicles can travel up to 1,000km or more on one tank of fuel, whether they are diesel or petrol-powered."

Nevertheless, some drivers still opt to carry a small amount of additional fuel, while others transport fuel home from the filling station for use in other machines. So what are the rules for carrying extra fuel on board?

For safety reasons, many countries around the world set limits on how much flammable material can be carried in a car. Europe, for example, limits containers to a size of 60 litres.

Other countries entirely prohibit carrying reserve canisters.

Leser recommends carrying a maximum of 5 or 10 litres in a can. "The canister must be secured in the boot in such a way that it cannot shift or fall over, even in the event of emergency braking or a sudden evasive manoeuvre," the accident expert says. "The best way to do that is to use straps."

You may also want to think twice before crossing any borders with large petrol cans in your boot, and consider any customs and road traffic regulations in the country you're driving into.


Renault to produce new Alpine model at Dieppe site

                PARIS: French carmaker Renault will produce the new electric model of its Alpine brand at its Dieppe site in northern France, chairman Jean-Dominique Senard said today.

"There was uncertainty over the future of that plant a few years ago and now thanks to the work of Renault's teams...we will be able to really secure the future of that plant," Senard told France Inter radio.

Renault, Nissan and Mitsubishi Motors on Thursday said they planned to deepen co-operation in electric vehicle (EV) production as their two decade-old alliance positions itself to compete as auto markets switch to EVs.

Senard also told France Inter radio that Renault hoped to hire a further 2,500 workers for its French factories.


Rodin Cars' FZERO is a 1,200hp track hypercar, coming in 2023

                LONDON: New Zealand performance car maker Rodin Cars has announced that their new track hypercar, the Rodin FZERO, is officially entering production.

Three years after it was first revealed as Rodin’s next venture, the company has released more FZERO production details, including some impressive specs, a release date and the public unveiling of major completed vehicle components at their Donington Park showroom.

Twenty-seven Rodin FZEROs will be available to buyers, with the first coming off the assembly line in the summer of next year.

Rodin’s most ambitious and eagerly anticipated car yet, the FZERO continues where the previous model, the FZED, left off.

Where the purpose of the FZED is to deliver a driver experience aligned with being behind the wheel of a modern Formula One car, the FZERO takes that a leap further, aiming to be the ultimate in track performance, far beyond that of anything seen before.

Building a car without restrictions of road laws or race series regulations, means it can be developed with no limits, allowing for performance that would otherwise be unobtainable. The singular goal of the Rodin FZERO is to be the fastest car around track, without exception.

As the 698kg car is made to attack lap times, the emphasis of the FZERO is on weight and airflow aerodynamics. The chassis is constructed from nose to tail of carbon fibre composite, with all components manufactured on site at Rodin Cars.

Designed and developed from the ground up by Rodin Cars and in conjunction with famed engine manufacturer Neil Brown Engineering, the Rodin FZERO is powered by a revolutionary 4.0-litre V10 twin-turbo engine with the assistance of an electric power unit.

At just 132 kg, the engine named the RCTEN, is designed to be the lightest and most compact V10 ever built. A very impressive accomplishment given the engine hasn’t compromised on power, still producing a combined 1176 PS and 1026 Nm of torque. All whilst revving all the way up to 10,000 rpm.

“The Rodin FZERO is the physical representation of the ultimate heights in vehicle performance. Without the restrictions of building to a set of rules, we are able to make the car lighter, more powerful, and produce significantly more downforce," said Rodin Cars founder David Dicker.

"The only real restrictions we face are the laws of physics, and we have even pushed those to the absolute limit. We look forward to bringing the most intense driving experience conceivable to tracks around the world.”

The Rodin FZERO will be available to customers in a configuration of their choice, allowing them to customise specific aspects of the car based on their driving style and the track on which they will be using it. In addition, Rodin owners receive access to custom racewear services, vehicle storage and delivery, and full driver training at Rodin’s picturesque private race tracks.

Based in New Zealand, Dicker has crafted Rodin Cars from the ground up, resulting in possibly the most unique and technically advanced vehicle manufacturing facility in the world.

Located on a remote 550-hectare property in the South Island, in the shadow of a jagged mountain range, the site, complete with a plant, build facility, 3D printing resources and three test tracks, has the credentials to achieve the company’s vision – to build the fastest car on earth.


Hyundai's Supernal to lead the way in air mobility

                SEOUL/WASHINGTON: Hyundai Motor Group announced today a new company called Supernal, LLC to take its future mobility vision forward.

An evolution of its Urban Air Mobility Division announced at CES 2020, Supernal, will be the binding component of the group’s future mobility vision.

The company is developing a family of electric air vehicles and convening public and private stakeholders to responsibly shape the emerging advanced air mobility industry.

It plans to launch its first commercial flight in 2028 and scale operations, leveraging the group’s manufacturing expertise, as the advanced air mobility market and public acceptance begin to grow in the 2030s.

The initial concept vehicle, the S-A1, made its debut at CES 2020. Supernal aims to develop the concept further and plans to begin certification with US regulatory agencies in 2024.

Its first air vehicle will be electric-powered and autonomous-capable and is planned to accommodate four to five passengers on initial urban and urban-adjacent routes.

Supernal is one of over 50 companies in Hyundai’s network collaborating to make mobility a service, not just a product.

It is working to integrate advanced air mobility into existing transit networks and to shape a seamless intermodal passenger experience.

The vision is for passengers to use a single app – like current rideshare platforms – to plan their journey, which could include taking a car or rail from home to an AAM "vertiport," an eVTOL across town, and an e-scooter for the last mile.

“In adding a new dimension to mobility, we are on a mission to transform how people and society move, connect, and live,” said Hyundai Motor Group president and Supernal CEO Jaiwon Shin.

“We have bold ambitions at Supernal but being first to market is not one of them. We are working to build the right product and the right integrated market, and we will leverage Hyundai Motor Group’s scaled manufacturing expertise to ensure AAM reaches the right price point and is accessible to the masses.”


Demand for gasoline is plunging all over the world

                NEW YORK: US gasoline demand has collapsed as stay-at-home orders keep drivers off the road, following the pattern seen in the hardest-hit parts of Europe.

Sales at retail stations were down 46.6% from a year earlier in the week ending March 28, according to a report from OPIS by IHS Markit. The average station sold about 41,639 litres — less than two tanker trucks’ worth.

The gasoline demand plunge accelerated as government orders on staying home became more widespread, dropping 30% in a week. The loss of consumption in the US echoes that of Spain and Italy, which imposed some of Europe’s harshest restrictions on movement. Demand there for gasoline was down about 85%.

Weekly US government data show that the least gasoline was supplied to the market since 1994. While the drop isn’t as drastic as at the retail level, it’s likely to increase as retailers take less fuel. Refineries are cutting back production as fuel piles up in storage tanks, in turn pushing down crude prices.

Globally, oil demand may shrink by as much as a third, according to some estimates.

European countries are also taking a hit. Gasoline demand fell 83% on an annual basis in Spain during the week ended March 29, according to pipeline operator CLH Group. In Britain, gasoline sales in late March were down by 66%, compared with an average during the previous two months, the UK Petrol Retailers Association said.

A survey of Dutch car dealers, driving schools and transport companies found that respondents lost almost half of their revenue on average as a result of the virus, according to industry group Bovag, which conducted the study.

"The Netherlands really has come to a standstill,” said Bovag spokesman Tom Huyskens. "Only those that really need it are driving, filling up their tank, but otherwise traffic has pretty much stopped.”

In the US, diesel demand hasn’t been hit as bad, as truck deliveries have continued. But Pilot Co., America’s biggest truck-stop company, is facing a 25% to 30% slowdown as the impact of coronavirus moves through the supply chain, keeping economic activity muted and workers at home, CEO Jimmy Haslam said in an interview.

"With big box retailers starting to slow and automakers shutting, we expect more slowdown in coming weeks,” he said.

Meanwhile, tthe world’s largest oil producers are hammering out the terms of an unprecedented deal to mitigate the devastating impact of the coronavirus crisis as they prepare for an extraordinary meeting this week.

Saudi Arabia and Russia are closing in on an agreement to curb output, which could drain some of the oil surplus threatening to overwhelm storage tanks and force a wave of abrupt production shutdowns, according to delegates involved in the talks. The two energy giants, together with others in the Opec+ alliance, will hold a virtual meeting on Thursday to finalise the accord.

A deal still hinges on some form of co-operation with the US. That may be difficult to achieve with President Donald Trump resisting any partnership with the OPEC cartel that he’s vilified for years. But the group is holding out hope for some kind of American involvement, and buy-in by others such as Canada and Brazil, at a gathering of Group of 20 oil ministers scheduled for Friday.


Hyundai signs development deal with another electric vehicle startup

                SEOUL: Hyundai Motor Co broadened its future transportation portfolio with an agreement to jointly develop electric vehicles with California startup Canoo, the companies said on Tuesday.

It was the second such deal announced in recent weeks by Hyundai and sister company Kia Motors Corp, which in mid-January said they would invest $110 million in UK startup Arrival and jointly develop electric commercial vehicles.

In Seoul, a Hyundai spokesman said the automaker’s partnership with two-year-old Canoo would focus on smaller electric passenger vehicles about the size of its Accent compact.

Like Arrival, Canoo has developed a “skateboard” - a low-rise platform that bundles batteries and electric motors with such chassis components as steering, brakes, wheels and tires - on which a variety of body types can be built.

Canoo last fall revealed its own “post-SUV” model, based on its electric-vehicle skateboard and intended to be marketed to individuals and fleets by subscription.

Hyundai has been investing heavily in recent months in a variety of future transportation ventures, notably a US$4 billion joint venture with auto supplier Aptiv, announced in September, to develop self-driving vehicles and systems.

Those investments are part of a sweeping five-year, US$87 billion plan to ramp up the automaker’s expertise and activity in electrification, automation and related services.

Previously, Hyundai and Kia had made a number of transportation-related investments, including in Silicon Valley self-driving startup Aurora and ride services startups Ola in India and Grab in Singapore.

Hyundai and Kia last year invested US$89 million in Rimac Automobili, a nine-year-old Croatian company that aspires to build electric supercars and which is also backed by Porsche AG.


Williams considers sale of struggling F1 team

                LONDON: Williams is considering a sale of its once-dominant but now struggling Formula One team as part of a new strategic direction, Williams Grand Prix Holdings (WGPH) said today.

The company published annual results showing Formula One revenue slid to £95.4 million (RM510mil) in 2019, down from £130.7 million (RM699mil) the previous year.

“The WGPH board is undertaking a review of all the various strategic options available to the company,” it said.

“Options being considered include, but are not limited to, raising new capital for the business, a divestment of a minority stake in WGPH or a divestment of a majority stake in WGPH including a potential sale of the whole company.”


Jaguar Land Rover trot out their Bond cars in Frankfurt

FRANKFURT: Jaguar Land Rover celebrated their vehicles appearing in the new Bond adventure, SPECTRE on Tuesday night.

Cars, including the Jaguar C-X75, Range Rover Sport SVR and the iconic Land Rover Defender, stole the show as they were unveiled in public for the first time at the palatial Thurn und Taxis here.

Naomie Harris (Moneypenny) and David Bautista (Hinx) were guests of honour at the glamorous event showcasing special stunt vehicles used in the latest instalment of the James Bond series.

Guests were entertained by British singer and musician John Newman, who performed a number of top ten hits from his album.

SPECTRE, the 24th James Bond film, from Albert R. Broccoli’s EON Productions, Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Studios and Sony Pictures Entertainment, sees the Jaguar C-X75 drive through the moonlit streets of Rome in one of the movie’s most iconic high speed chase scenes.

Driven by Hinx, played by David Bautista, the C-X75 supercar, named the most advanced Jaguar ever created, was provided by Jaguar Land Rover Special Vehicle Operations (SVO) in collaboration with development partner Williams Advanced Engineering headquarters in Oxfordshire, England.

SVO was created in June 2014 to focus on meeting the increasing expectations of today’s Jaguar and Land Rover customers.

Specially modified Land Rover Defenders and the fastest, most powerful Land Rover ever, the Range Rover Sport SVR also star in major action sequences shot in Austria. The Defenders were constructed by the JLR Special Operations division with huge 37-inch diameter off-road tyres and enhanced body protection to tackle the terrain of the snow-covered mountain roads used for filming.

Fans around the world will be treated to a host of exclusive SPECTRE content on Jaguar and Land Rover’s social channels and brand new websites, including special access to unseen footage and interviews with the design, SVO and stunt teams as well as a 360 dynamic walk-around of the Jaguar C-X75.

Meanwhile, Agent 007 (James Bond played by Daniel Craig) will be driving an Aston Martin DB10, a one-off car specially built for the film.

SPECTRE will released worldwide from October.

 Bautista and Harris posing with the Range Rover Sport SVR.


BMW Group Malaysia strengthens EV workforce with expert certification programme

                KUALA LUMPUR: BMW Group Malaysia is cultivating highly skilled experts in the field of Electric Mobility through its internationally recognised BMW High Voltage Expert Certification programme.

The company said the move would not only enhance the electric vehicle (EV) landscape in Malaysia with a wide network of charging infrastructure but also complement the uptake of electromobility since the arrival of the latest BMW i vehicles earlier this year.

The BMW High Voltage Expert is a specialised talent who works at the highest level on BMW electric vehicles.

Conducted at the BMW Group Regional Training Centre in Malaysia, the programme that certifies a BMW High Voltage Expert allows for the servicing and repair of the most advanced BMW i vehicles worldwide.

To qualify as a BMW High Voltage Expert, the prospect must already be an existing BMW High Voltage Technician, who must first undergo a pre-selection process which includes a knowledge assessment and an interview.

The prospect would also need to obtain first aid certification and undergo a full body check-up, after which, they are put through 15 days of intensive training, with the requirement of passing two theory exams and four practical exams to proceed to the next stage.

This is followed by a final theory exam and practical demonstration under live high voltage to secure
the certification which is completed in another 10 days.

BMW Group Malaysia managing director Hans de Visser said the company had always believed that the future is Electric.

“Since BMW Group Malaysia first introduced BMW i to the country back in 2015, we have envisioned a Malaysia where electric mobility is fully embraced and have been working hard to that end.

“We understood the obstacles faced by Malaysians in adopting EVs, such as range anxiety, which we have been alleviating by rolling out EV infrastructure across the country.

“At the same time, service and repair are also important points of consideration, ensuring that BMW i owners have greater peace of mind when it comes to the ownership of their BMW electric vehicles,” he said.


Lower toll charges expected to ease cost-of-living pressure, says economist

                PETALING JAYA: The government’s move to ask PLUS Malaysia Bhd to once and for all fix its toll charges at lower rates is expected to slow down hikes in transportation costs, say economists.

Prof Dr Yeah Kim Leng, an economist with Sunway University, said the move, which is part of a plan to allow the current owners of PLUS to hold on to the company, would likely help in containing inflationary pressure on transportation costs.

“With this new agreement, the public will not have to deal with any cost-of-living pressure caused by toll increases, which are supposed to happen every few years under the original concession, ” he added.

He said the 20-year extension of the concession was a trade-off so that the company could slash its toll rates by 18%.

It is unlikely, he added, that the reduction in toll collection would greatly impact PLUS’ ability to maintain its highways.

“It is not expected to be a big issue because the toll collection is still more than sufficient to pay the maintenance costs.

READ MORE: You get to pay less toll on six PLUS highways from Feb 1

“According to some estimates, maintenance costs only make up about 10% to 25% of the concessionaire’s total costs, ” he said.

He also disagreed that the potential decrease in toll collection could lead to smaller payouts for the Employees’ Provident Fund (EPF), which owns 49% of PLUS.

“As there is a 20-year extension for the concession, the revenue cycle of PLUS has been lengthened by another 20 years.

“PLUS is a profitable and matured asset. It is good for it to remain indirectly in the hands of the government, especially because EPF contributors are members of the public, ” he said.

Socio Economic Research Centre executive director Lee Heng Guie also welcomed the move to lower the toll charges as it will help ease the cost of living.

“It is good news at a time when we have to cope with the rising cost of living. I believe the Government has weighed all the options and considered the rakyat’s welfare, ” he said.

The Institute for Democracy and Economic Affairs (Ideas) supports the decision to not sell PLUS and points out that there should first be a proper divestment policy before such a disposal.

CEO Ali Salman said a transparent divestment process must be in place before the Government engages in the privatisation of its assets.

“It is imperative on the part of the Government as guardian of national assets to produce and communicate a comprehensive divestment policy framework.

“The framework should also fully consider the implications of government-linked companies reforms, which may entail asset sales, to the broader socio-economic dynamics, ” he said.


Buffett-backed Chinese EV maker BYD says making 5 million masks daily to fight virus

Protective masks moving through a machine on the protective mask production line at a Hong Kong factory. —Bloomberg

BEIJING/SHANGHAI: Chinese electric vehicle maker BYD said today it is making 5 million masks a day to fight the coronavirus pandemic that has killed nearly 3,200 people in China.

The Shenzhen-based automaker, which is backed by US investor Warren Buffett, said in a statement it started work on building a new mask production line in late January. BYD also produces around 300,000 bottles of hand sanitisers a day, it said.

Bloomberg reported BYD as claiming that it is now the world’s biggest face-mask maker after starting production less than a month ago. It is expanding capacity on top of the daily 5 million masks it makes.

Founder Wang Chuanfu led a team of 3,000 engineers to build production lines from scratch using 90% in-house components. BYD didn’t specify what type of masks it makes.

BYD, which also produces EV batteries, said it will give masks to its workers to ensure normal production and will supply the rest to people in Hubei, the epicentre of the coronavirus, and to hospitals and public transport.

More than 134,500 people have been infected globally by the coronavirus and over 4,900 have died, according to a Reuters tally of government announcements. The total number of cases in mainland China is 80,813.

As factories in China, the world’s No.2 economy, start to resume work, a number of Chinese manufacturers, including a subsidiary of Apple Inc partner Foxconn, have refitted production lines to make masks and medical clothing to meet surging demand.

SGMW, a Guangxi-based joint venture of General Motors, SAIC Motor and a local partner, is also making around 2 million masks a day.


Pininfarina's 1,900hp Battista all-electric hypercar goes on public display in London

                LONDON: Automobili Pininfarina's 1,900hp zero-emissions Battista luxury hypercar goes on public display in a bespoke enclosure at the British Library’s main Piazza from June 6 to 9.

The Battista, in a unique exterior finish, is in London representing the company's partnership with the British Library’s ‘Leonardo da Vinci: A Mind in Motion’ exhibition.

A new film of this unique Battista at the British Library has been produced celebrating the luxury electric car company’s ambitions for extreme performance, innovative engineering and beautiful style – principles of modern-day Italian automotive design that resonate back to Leonardo’s inspirational work.

The Battista was presented to a select audience at a VIP preview event yesterday (6th June) by Automobili Pininfarina Design Director, Luca Borgogno.

“We are incredibly proud to be partnering with the British Library and celebrating the life and work of a true Italian genius. Leonardo proved that design and engineering can be revolutionary, functional and beautiful and this is a principle by which Pininfarina has lived throughout its 90-year history," said Borgogno.

"The Battista will set new levels for performance and deliver innovative engineering solutions in an elegant and beautiful body, so we hope it represents how we, as Italians, have been inspired by Leonardo for centuries.”

Production of the 150 Battista all-electric hypercar will begin in 2020, in Cambiano near Turin, Italy - the home of Pininfarina S.p.A.
The vehicle will become the most powerful electric vehicle ever to emerge from Italy.

It is anticipated that only 50 of the 150 electric hypercars will be available for the European market.

The exhibition - A Mind in Motion, marks the 500th anniversary of Leonardo da Vinci's death and celebrates it by revealing the inner workings of his complex mind and his fascination with motion – which he considered to be “the cause of all life".

Leonardo da Vinci is known first and foremost as an artist but the British Library’s exhibition will focus on his notebooks and the unique and compelling insight they offer into the workings of his mind and his scientific investigations.

It will be the first time a selection of notes and drawings from the Codex Arundel (owned by the British Library), the Codex Forster (owned by the V&A) and the Codex Leicester (owned by Bill Gates) will be displayed together in the UK.

The exhibition will also look at how the scientific exploration of nature and motion found in his notebooks directly informed his work as an inventor and artist.

Leonardo was exceptionally skilled as a draughtsman and able to express in visual terms the form and intended function of his designs and drawings: principles similar to those on which the Pininfarina Carrozzeria was founded by Battista ‘Pinin’ Farina in 1930.

Potential customers are invited to apply to own a Battista via an online service within the company’s website.


No dine-in but you can still tuck in

                KLANG: Soon after the movement control order was implemented in Selangor recently and dine-ins were restricted, restaurant owner Jacqueline Ong spotted some people eating takeaways in their cars.

That sparked her “meals on wheels” idea.

“I wanted to make dining in the car a better experience and decided to serve customers in their vehicles, ’’ said Ong, who owns a Western food restaurant called Moka Artisan Coffee and a Chinese vegetarian restaurant, Namaste, both in Bandar Botanic here.

The first thing that Ong did was to source for small individual table tops that would fit into cars as well as craft out ways her customers could make their orders.

“For Moka Artisan Coffee, they have to walk in to order and wait in their cars to be served.

“Once they have finished eating, they just need to honk and our staff will collect the plates and cutlery, ’’ said the 54-year-old restaurateur.

READ MORE: Padi House restaurant in Cyberjaya is doing it, too

Those wanting to eat at Namaste can call to order their food if they don’t wish to walk in.

“As Namaste provides soup with meals, we serve drinks followed by soup. After the soup is consumed, we serve them their orders, ’’ Ong said.

She added that the novel method not only allowed customers to eat in comfort in their respective cars but also helped her business.

“I hope this trend will pick up as not many people are aware of our latest dining service, ’’ she said.

Sisters Thong Yeei Yarn, 24, and Yeei Lork, 21, had initially gone out to pack their lunch but ended up eating in their car at Moka Artisan Coffee instead.

“When we found out about the restaurant’s car-dining facility, my sister and I decided to give it a try and we enjoyed our spaghetti and chicken chop seated comfortably in our car, ’’ said Yeei Yarn.

She said patrons who order takeaways can eat their food soon after it’s prepared as opposed to waiting until they reach home and best of all, “there won’t be any dishes to wash”.


Volvo Cars races to record sales in 2017

                GOTHENBURG: Swedish carmaker Volvo, owned by the Chinese Geely, said Thursday that booming demand in China helped it notch up record sales for the fourth consecutive year in 2017.

Volvo Cars said in a statement that it sold a total 571,577 cars worldwide last year, an increase of seven percent over 2016, thanks to "growth in all regions."

The carmaker attributed its strong performance to the success of its 90-series cars and the XC60, presented at the Geneva Auto Show last March.

In regional terms, sales grew by 20.9 percent in the Asia Pacific region, with sales in China alone up by as much as 25.8 percent.

 The XC60 T8 Inscription.

Sales in the Europe, Middle East and Africa region were up 3.3 percent in 2017. By contrast, sales in the US declined by 1.5 percent.

Volvo Cars announced in early July that it would launch only electric or hybrid models starting from 2019, promising a "historic end" to vehicles equipped with a combustion engine.

The Gothenburg-based group is the first major manufacturer to plan to electrify all its models and to set a roadmap for the phasing out of the internal combustion engine, a century and a half after its invention.

Volvo Cars has seen a dramatic recovery and strong profit since it was bought by Geely from Ford in 2010. Volvo's annual results will be published on Feb 8.

Geely also became the largest shareholder of AB Volvo, the world's number two truck maker, in December, buying shares from the investment firm Cevian Capital at an estimated value of 2.7 billion euros (RM13bil).

While the total amount of the transaction has not been disclosed, Geely signed a cheque for 3.2 billion euros (RM15.4bil), according to the Swedish daily Dagens Nyheter.


New Volkswagen Passat R-Line open for booking

PETALING JAYA: Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM) is accepting pre-bookings for the new Passat R-Line which is locally assembled with an estimated price of RM200,000 to RM210,000.The Passat R-Line boasts a new 2.0TSI turbocharged engine  paired with a new and improved seven-speed wet clutch direct shift gearbox (DSG) which produces 190PS and 320Nm of torque.The Passat R-Line has new front and rear bumpers, side R-Line badge, chrome trims and 19” Verona alloy wheels.As for the interior,  it has the Nappa carbon-style black leather seats, steering wheel and aluminium sports pedals.Safety-wise it comes with Side Assist with 180-degree detection range of up to 50 metres and Rear Traffic Alert.The Passat R-Line fitted with Volkswagen’s Discover Pro infotainment system with a 9.2” touchscreen and has convenient features such as voice control, gesture control, a customizable three-view split screen and Wireless App-Connect with Apple Car Play. The Passat R-Line will be available in six colours: Aquamarine Blue, Tamarind Brown, Manganese Grey and Reflex Silver, Deep Black and Oryx White.Bookings and viewing arrangements can be online or at authorized Volkswagen dealerships nationwide.It is also currently on display at Oval Centre Court, Lower Ground Floor, 1 Utama Shopping Centre, Petaling Jaya from 12 to 16 August, 2020.


Facelifted Mercedes-Benz CLA is here

                PETALING JAYA: Mercedes-Benz Malaysia has announced the facelifted CLA. Prices for the CLA 200, CLA 250 Sport 4MATIC and CLA 45 4MATIC are RM236,888, RM278,888 and RM408,888 respectively.

The refreshed CLA shows off a diamond radiator grille in chrome as standard with LED headlamps. The interior also benefits from numerous enhancements, such as new seat covers and trim parts, as well as chrome-plated controls. The Mercedes-AMG CLA 45 4MATIC now comes with better styling and an upgraded interior.

Exterior

All models are now equipped with AMG Line exterior. This design and equipment line combines carefully coordinated features to further increase the sportiness and exclusivity of the vehicle. Dynamic looks from all angles are ensured by the powerful AMG bodystyling comprising front apron, rear apron and side sill panels plus a diamond radiator grille with chrome pins and the twin-pipe exhaust system with chrome-plated tailpipe trim. The lowered sports suspension improves handling and increases driving pleasure.

The CLA is equipped with diamond radiator grille in chrome pins, plus a new front bumper with chrome trim strip. The rear bumper is available with a panel incorporating a trim strip in chrome on the CLA 200 or black (with Night package on the CLA 250 Sport 4MATIC) between the tailpipes. The tailpipe trim panels themselves are now integrated flush into the bumper. This adds visual width to the vehicle and ensures a superior high-quality appearance thanks to even and narrow gaps where the panels join.

Rounding off the striking exterior, the CLA 200 is equipped with 18-inch AMG multi-spoke light-alloy wheels (19-inch AMG cross-spoke light alloy wheels on the CLA 250 Sport 4MATIC), perforated brake discs at the front and callipers at the front with Mercedes-Benz lettering.

Cabin

The interior comes with new seat covers and trim parts, as well as chrome-plated controls. The highlight is a much slimmer-looking freestanding 20.3 cm (8-inch) media display with a new-style glass cover. The CLA 200 and CLA 250 Sport 4MATIC are equipped with the Audio 20 CD systems, while Mercedes-AMG CLA 45 is equipped with COMAND Online. The new-style dials and red needles in the instrument cluster make it easier to read the instruments.

The CLA 200 and CLA 250 Sport 4MATIC features new trim elements in black DINAMICA microfiber serve to liven up the interior, boasting a sportier interior character, including sports seats in ARTICO man-made leather / DINAMICA microfibre, a multifunction sports steering wheel with flattened bottom section and a shift lever in perforated leather with contrasting red topstitching.

The  34-watt LED low-beam headlamps have low energy consumption – around 60 percent less than xenon and around 70 percent less than halogen.

The low-beam headlamps use LED projection technology, while the main-beam headlamps use LED reflection technology. Direction indicators, daytime running lamps and position lights are in the form of multifunctional fibre-optic cables, which are also used for the "Coming Home" function.

Tail lights have automatic intensity control. These reduce the dazzling effect for vehicles following. The multi-level functionality regulates the brightness of the brake lights and direction indicators in three stages (Day/Night-time driving/Night-time stationary).

The CLA has already previously included the latest generation of assistance and safety systems that are, in some cases, only now gradually being introduced in the other model series. Among these are, for example, Active Brake Assist as standard (known until now as COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST PLUS), which is able to trigger autonomous braking as a means of reducing the danger of rear-end collisions, as well as the transmission mode selection function DYNAMIC SELECT. With this system the vehicle characteristics can be adjusted at the touch of a button, as the system modifies the engine, transmission and steering at the driver's behest.

CLA 45 4MATIC

The CLA 45 offers as standard items that were previously options.such as the LED High Performance headlamps, now come as standard. The twin louvre in the radiator grille is finished in silver chrome.

The aerodynamics has been improved and the Cd value reduced, all for better driving dynamics and stability. The design of the AMG spoiler lip on the boot lid is new. Further exterior features of the facelift include the AMG front apron in a new A-wing design with front splitter inserts in matt titanium grey and high-gloss black flics. The latter also help to improve the flow of cooling air.

New at the rear is the design of the diffuser insert, with four vertical fins. The CLA 45 4MATIC is also equipped with AMG Aerodynamics package. This comprises a larger front splitter, additional flics, a black AMG spoiler lip at the rear plus spoiler lips over the simulated air outlets on either side at the back.

The interior has been similarly upgraded. The instrument panel is upholstered as standard in ARTICO man-made leather, as are the beltlines with an exclusive finishing touch of red contrasting topstitching. The trim element represents a further highlight: this features a matt printed finish, although the essential structure still has a polished surface that bears the AMG logo.

With a peak performance of 381hp and maximum torque of 475Nm, the CLA 45 4MATIC is among the most powerful vehicles in their segment, accelerating from rest to 100kph in just 4.2 seconds. Combined fuel consumption is 6.9l/100km.

Other new features included the AMG DYNAMIC SELECT transmission modes as standard, plus the shorter gear ratios of the AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7-speed sports transmission.


KLIMS’18: Workhorses from CAM, Isuzu, Daihatsu, UD Trucks and Tata

                KUALA LUMPUR: Besides the latest passenger vehicles, the Kuala Lumpur International Motor Show 2018 (KLIMS’18) is also showcasing new commercial vehicles for business onwers and fleet operators.

CAM, Isuzu, Daihatsu, UD Trucks and Tata Motors have brought in an impressive display of workhorses for KLIMS’18.

CAM launched the 20-seater City Transporter here at KLIMS’18.

As private registrations are available for this transporter vehicle, C.A.M has been getting good response from the public.

In addition, anyone who purchase the truck during KLIMS’18 will be eligible for a RM2,000 rebate and 360-degree camera worth RM3,500 (includes installation).

Another CAM vehicle on showcase is the Luxury model 18-seater available in 2.5L and 3.0L CDTi.

The 6-speed manual is available for the first time at KLIMS’18.

Anyone who buys the vehicle will also get a RM2,000 cash rebate plus window tint and a dash camera worth RM2,000.

UD Trucks and its sole distributor, Tan Chong Industrial Equipment Sdn Bhd (TCIE) presented the all-new light duty truck – Kuzer.

Kuzer is the newest member of the UD Trucks range joining the popular heavy-duty Quester and the medium-duty Croner, in the list of offerings by the leading Japanese truck manufacturer.

Steve Hedouin, managing director, Hub Malaysia and Oceania of UD Trucks commented “Following the vision of UD Trucks’ founder, Kenzo Adachi to ‘make the truck the world needs today’. Kuzer is the perfect truck for urban driving, especially for the narrow roads of inner cities.”

On display at Isuzu is a street rugged D-Max, off road version of MU-X and the new 1.9L Ddi BluePower engine.

There is a highly eccentric urban rugged design of the D-Max at KLIMS’18.

The exterior comes with army electric blue geometrics with red highlights as the main body colour.

The body is upgraded with steel bumpers, street styled alloy wheels and a roll bar with a tougher look.

The interior comes with a ‘blue metal armour’ design which reassembles a suit of a soldier.

The MU-X was improved upon its participation in the renowned Borneo Safari.

It is fully off road capable, equipped with various add-ons such as the winch, roof tray, mud tyres and steel bumpers.

It is also lifted 3 inches for improvement in ground clearance in both inclines and declines.

The interior received an upgrade in leather seats.

The monotone black and yellow accent decal complements the entire rugged and tough look.

One of the highlights on display is the newly invented RZ4E-TC 1.9L Ddi BluePower diesel turbo engine.

The RZ4E is a new generation diesel engine which is the result of four years of extensive research in diesel engine technology.

At the Tata Motors booth, the workhorse vehicles on display includes Prima 4038 S, Super Ace and Ultra 814.

DRB-Hicom Commercial Vehicles Sdn Bhd (DHCV), the authorised importer and distributor of Tata Motors Ltd commercial vehicles in Malaysia.

Tata Motors (which also owns Jaguar and Land Rover) is currently the world’s tenth largest motor vehicle manufacturer in the world, and the world’s fourth largest truck and second largest bus manufacturer in the world.

 www.stevenleong.com

Daihatsu Malaysia recently introduced the very first automatic transmission (AT) in the light commercial vehicle segment – the Gran Max Panel Van (AT).

The 4-speed automatic gear, with light powered steering and 4.7m small turning radius is a power-combo to boost easy vehicle handling.

The multi-purpose panel van is also equipped with rear-wheel drive (RWD) that improves driving grip while transporting its goods, especially on uneven road conditions.

The vehicle is able to accommodate up to 2,000 kg of gross weight (with load) and runs on Electric Fuel Injection (EFI) powered by DOHC DVVT 1.5 litre engine, that produces maximum power of 71kW/6000rpm and maximum torque of 134Nm/4400rpm.
The engine is compatible with RON 95 petrol.

Safety features include anti-lock braking system (ABS) and dual front SRS airbags along with its high rigidity monocoque body structure.

The new Gran Max Panel Van (AT) model is priced from RM69,888 excluding insurance and comes with 3 years of warranty/100,000km.

KLIMS’18 offers visitors a chance to win either a Toyota C-HR, a Honda City or a Perodua Myvi through a lucky draw.

Every entrance ticket purchased is entitled for the lucky draw at the motor show, which is held at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC).

Entries for the lucky draw close at 9pm on Dec 2, and the winning tickets will be drawn at 9.30pm on the same night by Malaysian Automotive Association (MAA) president Datuk Aishah Ahmad.

MAA is the organiser of the motor show, which features over 74 marques of vehicle brands and automotive products spanning over six exhibitions halls covering two levels at MITEC.

Participating automotive brands include CAM, Citroen, Daihatsu, DS, Ford, Grand Max, Honda, Hyundai, Isuzu, Kia, Lexus, Petronas Motorsports, Mitsubishi, Nissan, Perodua, Peugeot, Proton, Tata, Toyota and UD Trucks.

Entrance fees are RM20 on weekdays and RM25 on weekends.

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

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

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

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


BMW X5 prototypes undergoing exceptionally demanding testing

                MUNICH: One day the new BMW X5 is being tested at the polar circle and the next it is already doing laps on the Nürburgring: The driving trials for the successor of the current BMW X5 test both the car’s endurance as well as its versatility.

The new Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) is undergoing an exceptionally demanding and varied testing program as part of its series development process.

The prototypes of the new BMW X5 must not only stand the test in all the world’s climate zones, but also master every kind of terrain.

In the coming fourth model generation, the car has a new suspension and chassis systems, which are available for the first time in a BMW X model.

It gets Adaptive M Suspension Professional and the Integral Active Steering, which is also being offered for the first time.

The new offroad package offers an impressive combination of highest-level ride comfort on the road and the possibility of changing the vehicle setup at the press of a button to suit the conditions of driving off the beaten track perfectly.

Be it snow, sand, rocks or gravel roads – the new BMW X5 has the perfect powertrain and suspension setup for each surface.

The prototypes proved how capably the new BMW X5 accelerates, steers and brakes in the winter test centre in Arjeplog, Sweden, on South African gravel tracks and the in desert dune landscapes of the USA.

They were subjected both to maximum cold and scorching heat. Extremely dry mountain terrain as well as tropical humidity and muddy tracks had to be mastered by the new BMW X5.

And since this endurance testing only proves part of the car’s unmistakable character, the testing series conducted on the BMW Group’s testing grounds in Miramas in the South of France, on the high-speed circuit in Talladega in the US state of Alabama and on the Nürburgring racetrack in Germany were equally important.


Saudi women rev up motorbikes as end to driving ban nears

Saudi Noura preparing for a training session at the Bikers Skills Institute, a motorcycle driving school, on the outskirts of Riyadh. — AFP
RIYADH: Even a year ago, it would have been hard to imagine — Saudi women clad in skinny jeans and Harley-Davidson T-shirts, revving motorbikes at a Riyadh sports circuit.

But ahead of the historic lifting of a decades-long ban on female drivers on June 24, women gather weekly at the privately owned Bikers Skills Institute, to learn how to ride bikes.

"Biking has been a passion ever since I was a kid," said 31-year-old Noura, who declined to give her real name as she weighs public reactions in the ultra-conservative Islamic kingdom.

Overturning the world's only ban on female drivers, long a symbol of repression against women, is the most striking reform yet launched by powerful Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.

But it has been overshadowed by a wave of arrests of female activists — including veteran campaigners who long resisted the ban.

None of the women at the floodlit motoring circuit wanted to talk about the crackdown, a deeply sensitive issue, focusing instead on securing a basic freedom long denied to them.

"I grew up watching my family riding bikes," Noura said as she mounted a Yamaha Virago.

"Now I hope... to have enough skills to ride on the street."

Next to her, revving a Suzuki, sat Leen Tinawi, a 19-year-old Saudi-born Jordanian.

For both women, biking is not just an adrenalin-fuelled passion, but also a form of empowerment.

"I can summarise the whole experience of riding a bike in one word -- freedom," Tinawi said.

Both bikers follow their Ukrainian instructor, 39-year-old Elena Bukaryeva, who rides a Harley-Davidson.

Most days the circuit is the domain of drag racers and bike enthusiasts — all men.

But since offering courses to women in February on the basics of bike riding, four female enthusiasts have enrolled, most of them Saudis, Bukaryeva said.

"They always wanted to learn how to ride a motorcycle. And now they are saying 'it's my time'," said Bukaryeva.

She echoed a catchphrase printed on the institute's promotional material: "It's your turn to ride."

Asked why more women had not enrolled for the course, which costs 1,500 riyals (around RM1,600), Bukaryeva said: "Maybe their families stop them."

Tinawi echoed the sentiment, saying she faced strong reservations from her family.

"My parents said: 'You on a bike? You are a girl. It's dangerous'," she said.

In Saudi Arabia, taking the wheel has long been a man's prerogative.

For decades, hardliners cited austere interpretations of Islam as they sought to justify the ban, with many asserting that allowing them to drive would promote promiscuity.

Many women fear they are still easy prey for conservatives in a nation where male "guardians" -- their fathers, husbands or other relatives -- can exercise arbitrary authority to make decisions on their behalf.

"Expect more accidents" because of women is a common refrain in an avalanche of sexist comments on Twitter.

The government has preemptively addressed concerns of abuse by outlawing sexual harassment with a prison term of up to five years and a maximum penalty of 300,000 riyals.

The most immediate practical worry for female motorists is the dress code.

Inside the private institute, the bikers wear skinny jeans, with abrasion-proof knee pads wrapped outside — but that is still unthinkable in public.

Body-shrouding abaya robes — mandatory public wear for women — are impractical while riding as their flowing hems could get caught up in the wheels.

Many women also complain that female instructors are in short supply and that classes are expensive.

But topping all concerns is the crackdown on women activists — while the kingdom trumpets women's rights.

Saudi Arabia this month said it detained 17 people for "undermining" the kingdom's security.

State-backed media published pictures of veteran driving activists, the word "traitor" stamped across them in red.

"It's a complete contradiction for the government to proclaim it is in favour of new freedoms for women and then target and detain women for demanding those freedoms," Samah Hadid, Amnesty International's Middle East director of campaigns, told AFP.

The arrests have unleashed a torrent of global criticism — including from vocal supporters of Prince Mohammed's reform drive, such as Bernard Haykel, a professor at Princeton University.

Calling the crackdown "a mistake", he has urged the government to "apply due process and the rule of law" in handling jailed activists' cases.

Observers say the arrests seem calculated by the crown prince to placate clerics incensed by the modernisation drive and to send a clear signal that the pace of reform will be driven by him alone, not the activists.

Back at the institute, as the floodlights dimmed and the women bikers donned their abayas to leave, the crackdown was not a topic of discussion.

"A climate of fear is now evident in Saudi Arabia," Hadid said.


Discover the Mercedes-Benz Museum at home

                STUTTGART: You can't go out but you can still admire Mercedes-Benz vehicles and its rich history from afar at the Mercedes-Benz Museum which houses 160 vehicles and a total of 1,500 exhibits in a building thanks to digital formats.

A tour through the 16,500 square metres of the exhibition can stretch up to five kilometres. On the Museum’s website it only takes a few clicks to compile an experience to suit individual wishes.

The website provides information and 360-degree shots of all seven Legend and five Collection rooms with their vehicles here.

Every visit to the Museum is a unique experience. A web series focuses on this perspective and documents tours with various protagonists.

These include Jutta Benz, who has a special connection to the Museum since she is the great-granddaughter of the inventor of the automobile Carl Benz and his wife Bertha.

Or Bernd Mayländer, who has been driving the safety car in Formula 1 for twenty years.

The series continues with Dr Ulrike Groos, Director of the Kunstmuseum Stuttgart (Stuttgart Art Museum), Gorden Wagener, Daimler AG’s Chief Design Officer, and Benedikt Weiler, curator of the Mercedes-Benz Museum.

The guides at the Mercedes-Benz Museum have countless stories to tell about the exhibits of the permanent exhibition and the architecture.

They share their enthusiasm and astonishing facts with visitors on tours onsite and on Instagram.

There are stories about the highlights of the permanent exhibition as well as about the current special exhibition “40 years Mercedes-Benz G-Class” with fascinating facts about the legendary cross-country vehicle.

Additional interactive tours on the Museum’s Instagram channel @mercedesbenzmuseum are planned.

On his discovery tour through the Museum, successful YouTuber Shmee150 presents five little-known facts about Mercedes-Benz and the predecessor brands in 180-degree virtual reality format. Viewers can also look around the museum themselves by means of the mouse pointer or by moving their smartphone.

For those wishing to spend more time, an entire tour is available which shows the Mercedes-Benz Museum by night. The film was made in the course of the event “Night at the Museum” with bloggers and influencers who were permitted to stay inside the Museum overnight.


Elon Musk’s impact on language

Musk strikes a pose at the China-made Model 3 delivery ceremony at the company's Gigafactory in Shanghai on Jan 7. — Bloomberg
SAN FRANCISCO: Elon Musk, who turns 50 later this month, is many things: entrepreneur, financier, the chief executive officer of both Tesla Inc. and SpaceX, a crypto influencer, celebrity, spreader of memes, father to six boys, recent host of Saturday Night Live and Technoking.

Musk has made an impact on language, as many of his phrases will endure for decades to come. Musk, a voracious reader with a wide-ranging vocabulary, has invented countless words: Gigafactory, Supercharger and Hyperloop all come to mind. They have become part of the common lexicon with astonishing speed.

Through sheer force of will and repetition, the words and phrases that Musk has either devised outright or championed became part of Tesla’s corporate culture. Before long the vast ecosystem of Tesla fans, customers, suppliers and Wall Street analysts and journalists adopted them. The same can be said for SpaceX, whose names for autonomous “drone ships” are references to the Scottish author Iain Banks.

Musk’s vast interests are spread across multiple industries — automotive, aerospace, neuroscience, infrastructure — and no other business titan today uses language as effectively as he does.

Close watchers of Tesla are familiar with Musk’s favourite catchphrases: order of magnitude, force majeure, the machine that builds the machine. It’s common to see them on the Tesla earnings bingo cards that get shared around before nearly every earnings call. The cards are made by fans, investors and critics of the company alike, and spread on Reddit forums and Twitter.

But it’s the names of the company’s existing and future products that have really caught on — and caught fire with the imagination.

Tesla isn’t just making an electric truck: it’s making a Cybertruck. Don’t really understand what’s Cyber about it? It doesn’t matter: you know what it looks like.

Many of the words speak to the sheer scale of Musk’s ambitions, which are always far grander than people realise initially. A battery factory isn’t just a battery factory, it’s a Gigafactory. (Giga comes from the Greek word “gigas,” or giant.)

A fast charging station for Tesla’s electric cars isn’t just a charging station, it’s a Supercharger. (Tesla has more than 25,000, giving them the largest network in the world.)

The battery packs that Tesla sells to utilities that promise “massive energy storage?” Megapacks.

There are no signs of him stopping. At Tesla’s “Battery Day” in September 2020, Musk talked about reaching “Terawatt-hour” scale battery production. “Tera is the new Giga,” Musk said on stage.

It has now reached the point where every battery factory — even those being made by competitors — is called a gigafactory, regardless of its physical size or planned output.

“Nissan in advanced talks to build battery gigafactory in UK,” reported the Financial Times. “Stellantis discussing conditions with Rome to build gigafactory in Italy,” said Reuters.

As Oscar Wilde famously said: “Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery that mediocrity can pay to greatness.”


Open top fun with updated MINI Convertible

                MUNICH: With spring on the way, the updated MINI Convertible gets ready to hit the road with its top down.

To make this car stand out, it gets a new exclusive exterior paint of Zesty Yellow.

Its soft roof is fully electrically driven, and thus particularly quiet textile soft top can be opened and closed within 18 seconds at a time.

The soft top can also be activated while driving at speeds of up to 30kph.

For a precisely dosed supply of fresh air and sunlight, the front section of the soft top can be continuously retracted by up to 40cm.

This sunroof function is available at any speed.

As an alternative to the black version, a MINI Yours soft top is also available, which refers to the British homeland of the MINI brand with a woven-in Union Jack pattern in titanium grey.

The dynamic arrow graphic on the soft top of the MINI Convertible in the Sidewalk Edition is just as striking.

In addition, the hexagonal radiator grille has gained in size and presence, while black inner housings now make the round LED headlights look even more expressive.

The bumper strip at the front of the vehicle, which serves as the number plate holder, is now no longer painted in black but always in the same colour as the car.

For the latest generation of the MINI Convertible, there is a choice of three engine variants with a power range between 102hp and 178hp.

The petrol engines with three or four cylinders feature modern MINI TwinPower Turbo technology and comply with the Euro 6d emissions standard.

The model range also includes the extremely sporty MINI John Cooper Works Convertible with a 231hp four-cylinder turbo engine that enables acceleration from zero to 100kph in 6.6 seconds.

In combination with the optional eight-speed Steptronic transmission, the sprint to 100kph is completed in 6.5 seconds.

By far the most important sales market for the MINI Convertible is Germany, followed by the US and Great Britain, and far ahead of France, Spain and Portugal, which are known for their reliably warm summers and many hours of sunshine.

Last year, German MINI fans opted for a MINI Convertible in almost every fifth purchase.


Aston Martin picks racer's company as Asian distributor for Vantage GT3 and GT4 race cars

                KUALA LUMPUR: Aston Martin has appointed Motorsports Services AMR Asia Limited as its exclusive distributor of all variants of Vantage GT race cars, parts and technical support for China, Hong Kong, Macau, Taiwan and South-East Asia.

The new company was set up by three partners who included Malaysian racing driver Weiron Tan.

The main targets for this expansion would be the 2022 Asian Le Mans Series, the GTWC Asia and the China GT Championship.
 Tan.
Motorsports Services AMR Asia said it operates from its base near Sepang and another one in Zhuhai to serve the Chinese market.

"It’s been a challenging year for the motorsport industry ... because of the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic. Nevertheless, the timing of this announcement and the infrastructure we are putting in place will allow us to repay the faith of Aston Martin and expand the AMR GT racing footprint throughout the region, providing quality service and support to our valued customers,” said Tan, a director in the company.

The selection of Motorsports Services AMR Asia as the regional distributor is the latest step in Aston Martin Racing’s strategy to extend and support its global network of partner teams.

Alongside the expanded programme of deploying on-the-ground and remote support from its FIA GT World Endurance Manufacturers’ Championship-winning engineers and technicians, Motorsports Services AMR Asia became the third regional hub to provide local support and technical assistance.


Volkswagen offered €7.5bil for Lamborghini, says auto mag

                FRANKFURT:  Volkswagen has received a €7.5 billion offer (RM38bil) for Lamborghini, Autocar reported today, though VW's Audi said the supercar brand was not for sale.

The non-binding offer sets out terms for the purchase of Automobili Lamborghini by Switzerland's Quantum Group AG, which has formed a consortium with London-based investment firm Centricus Asset Management, Autocar reported.

The report, citing offer documents, also said that the consortium would include job assurances for existing Lamborghini employees for up to five years and the creation of 850 new jobs.

Volkswagen confirmed that there was agreement in the group that Lamborghini, which has been named repeatedly as a possible divestment candidate, will remain part of Volkswagen.

Asked to comment on the Autocar report, a spokesman for Volkswagen unit Audi, which is in charge of Lamborghini, said: "This is not the subject of any discussion within the group. No, Lamborghini is not for sale."

Representatives of Centricus and Quantum Group were not immediately available for comment.

Sources said in October that Volkswagen had drawn up plans to carve out Lamborghini to make it a more independent business within its stable of car brands and facilitate a potential initial public offering (IPO) at a later stage.


Continental Tyre and Castrol in Malaysia exploring collaboration

                KUALA LUMPUR: Continental Tyre Malaysia and Castrol Malaysia have signed a memorandum of understanding to explore a joint initiative across the country.

Both companies aim to strengthen their position in the country by leveraging on each other’s extensive dealer network, offerings, and expertise to offer consumers high quality products and services for a convenient and complete experience, for added peace of mind.

Under the proposed collaboration, Continental and Castrol will offer motorists in Malaysia a combined trade loyalty programme where they can enjoy various deals, incentives, redemptions, and rewards.

Both brands are also working towards a partnership that could see joint branded outlets nationwide with plans to grow and expand.

Continental Tyre Malaysia managing director Andrea Somorova said there is a steady demand for both brands and their products in the market among the premium vehicle owners.

“We saw a great opportunity for us to come together to consolidate our offerings to serve our customers better.

“We believe that with both brand’s long-standing service and excellence in the market, we will continue to be
the preferred brands in automotive maintenance,” she said.

Castrol Malaysia & Singapore market sales director Gan Wee Kiong said the this partnership is a testament to both brand’s commitment to safety and customer satisfaction as together we join forces to further build our brand presence in Malaysia.

“Through our combined expertise that supports new opportunities, we will continue to lead and innovate in securing global market leadership when it comes to service and maintenance.”

For more information on Continental Tyres, visit www.continental-tyres.com.my or visit its Official Facebook page at www.facebook.com/continental.malaysia.

For more information on Castrol Malaysia, visit www.castrol.com/my or visit its Official Facebook page at
https://www.facebook.com/castrolmalaysia.


Feb 23-March 1: Still no change to fuel prices

                KUALA LUMPUR: The retail prices of RON97 and RON95 petrol and diesel will remain unchanged for the period from Feb 23 to March 1.

The Finance Ministry, in a statement today, said that RON97 petrol remains at RM3.35 per litre, RON95 (RM2.05) and diesel (RM2.15).

The weekly retail prices of the products were set based on the Automatic Pricing Mechanism formula.


Host a party with Nissan

                PETALING JAYA: Want to host a party without paying a single cent for it? Well you’re in luck because Edaran Tan Chong Motor (ETCM), the distributor of Nissan cars in Malaysia, will be awarding six lucky winners the opportunity to host their own type of ‘Celebration Party’ worth RM50,000.

Known as the Riang Raya Campaign, it will run throughout the months of June and July.

The Celebration Party comes with full facility of an event organizer, decoration, venue rental, sound systems, food, beverages and many more (terms and conditions apply).

All Nissan customers have to do is submit an entry form with their purchase of a new Nissan vehicle.

“We are always looking for innovative ways to reward our customers, and we believe that the concept of this ‘Riang Raya Campaign’ has never been done before here,” said director of marketing and product planning, ETCM, Tan Keng Meng.

“Being able to plan their celebration is a way of us at ETCM to be closer to our customers, and playing a part in creating a wonderful moment for them to share with friends and loved ones. This is something we are extremely honoured to be doing,” said Tan.

As part of the Riang Raya celebrations, ETCM is also extending its “RM1 Promotion Campaign”. With only RM1, customers get to purchase the Nismo Aerokit for the Almera, or an impul Aerokit for the Grand Livina, or Sylphy.

The RM1 promotion is also extended to the 8-inch display Multimedia Navigation System with the purchase of the Teana or X-Trail 2.5.

Additionally, customers who purchase the X-Trail 2.0 will be entitled to add on leather seats for RM1.

New to this campaign, the RM1 is extended to selected variants of Navara for a Navi-Plus Package. Additionally, for the Serena S-Hybrid promotion, customers get to enjoy a free two-year maintenance service (terms and conditions apply).

And that’s not all, ETCM is also offering customers the opportunity to win a brand new iPad Air 2 when they participate in a test drive at any Nissan showroom nationwide.


UMW Toyota Motor continues steady growth in May

                SHAH ALAM: UMW Toyota Motor continues at a steady pace moving forward, registering sales of Toyota for the month of May at 7,442 units, while Lexus recorded a total sale of 137 units.

As for UMW Toyota’s sales for May 2022, the total number of Toyota and Lexus sold were 36,972 units.

The overall Toyota and Lexus sales for April were at 6,946 units as compared to 7,579 units in May of the same year.

UMW Toyota managed to closely maintain its numbers and registered only a slight difference when comparing the current month with the corresponding month of the previous year.

The total Toyota and Lexus sales for the year as at to date May 2022 is 36,972 units, compared with 34,026 units for year-to-date sales of May 2021.

This shows a gain of 9% when compared to the previous year, despite the forecast that vehicle sales in Malaysia will be slow for the rest of the year.

Based on the global shortage of semiconductors, automobile producers are finding it difficult to increase their production to meet demand.

In addition, the resumption of the sales and services tax (SST) after June 2022 will also put a damper on sales.

However, some buyers may want to take advantage of the pricing prior to re-implementation of the SST and this will assist to ramp up sales.

UMW Toyota Motor president Ravindran K said the company appreciated and was emboldened by the support it had received from customers.

“It has always been our policy to put our customers first and we are always ready to extend our assistance to the many Toyota fans as we journey out of these uncertain times.

“We are looking forward to continued confidence in our products and servicing capabilities, backed by our advanced automotive technology and comforted by the security features of all our products. Here’s to a more positive outlook forging ahead,” he said.

Continuing with the monthly promotions, UMW Toyota is offering benefits worth RM4,000 to fans of the Yaris and Vios.

June will also see Toyota lovers gearing up for mid-year savings as well as cash rebates and sales tax savings.

UMW Toyota Motor expects a further increase as it gears up for upcoming product launches.

For more information, visit Toyota.com.my or call the Toyota freephone line at 1-800-8-TOYOTA (869682).


Second Mark 2 by Callum in production

                LONDON: Jaguar is building the Mark 2 in a limited run of 12 cars.

Each vehicle will be tailored to an individual buyer, who will spend time with  Jaguar’s design director Ian Callum to finalise the specification.

“No two cars will be the same," said CMC managing director Nick Goldthorp.

"It is all in the small details that can be tailored, including the gearbox, exterior and interior colours. Each Mark 2 can be built as a right or left hand drive car with automatic or manual transmission and can be additionally fitted with power steering, air conditioning, electric windows and different types of wood veneer.”

The first car, a Mark 2 redesigned by Callum and re-engineered by CMC for his own personal use, was unveiled at the opening of the company’s new headquarters in August 2014, boasting a huge number of aesthetic and technical modifications.

“The second Mark 2 by Callum is in production, it is going to be a left hand drive car and the body is nearing completion. We should finish the vehicle by the end of this year,” said Goldthorp.

 Callum with his Mark 2.

Last year's car took CMC 18 months to build, Callum The 18-month joint project between Callum and CMC sought to retain the integrity of the original Mark 2, whilst making it even more exciting in shape and performance.

Callum said: “This is a very personal statement. A long held notion that, although the Mark 2 has always been a beautiful car, it could be even more exciting in shape and performance. Whilst maintaining the purity of the car’s form, I wanted to add a number of modern twists to the design. Simplification and clarity was my objective.”

Featuring a modified and uprated 4.3 litre XK engine, 5-speed manual gearbox, unique independent rear suspension and upgraded front brakes, the Mark 2 by Callum promises an intuitive driving experience.

Commenting on the specifications, Callum said: “The stance of the Mark 2 is already excellent, but I wished to make it even better. The car’s form is now 30mm lower and sits on 17” split rim spoke wheels. The bumpers are now part of the overall form. It is a fine balance of extracting and adding.

“I have always loved traditional louvres as seen on many older race cars. Four louvres appear on the side of the car to add to that sense of power and ‘something different’. Of course they had to work, so they have been designed in a low-pressure area for a better internal airflow from the modified engine.”

The suspension has been designed and reengineered by CMC. The front incorporates a bespoke power assisted rack, uprated coil springs, roll bar and wishbone bushes, adjustable dampers and solid subframe mountings, repositioned to improve anti-dive characteristics. The unique independent rear suspension now includes uprated coil springs, blade control wishbones, outboard disc brakes, an anti-roll bar and adjustable dampers.

The car has been fitted with Clarion’s NZ502E single DIN multimedia station, a high technology in car entertainment system with a 16cm flip-out touch screen, amongst other features, and component loudspeakers in specially-designed housings. The cabling has been provided by VDC Trading, as used in the world’s top recording and mastering studios, such as Abbey Road.


Ford recalls 1.5 million F-150 pickups

A 2017 F-150.
DETROIT: Ford announced Wednesday it is recalling 1.5 million of its best-selling F-150 pickup trucks due to a glitch in its transmission system that can lead to accidents.

The defect is present on some 2011 models of the truck with six-speed automatic transmission that can experience "a temporary, unintended downshift into first gear" because of a sensor problems.

"Depending on vehicle speed, a downshift to first gear without warning could result in a loss of vehicle control, increasing the risk of a crash," the automaker said.

Ford said it was aware of five accidents, including one case of "whiplash."

About 1.26 million of the affected cars were based in the United States and the remaining 221,000 in Canada. The vehicles were built in Michigan and Missouri.

Ford also announced recalls of 28,200 Lincoln Continental vehicles in the 2017-2019 model years due to a door latch problem; and about 4,350 vehicles from its 2019 class of Ford Mustang, Lincoln Nautilus and Lincoln Navigator over blank instrument panels upon vehicle startup.

Ford said it knew of no accidents related to either of the latter two recalls.


Honda Civic Type R Limited Edition sets new lap record at Suzuka

                NAGOYA: Honda’s most extreme Type R yet, the Civic Type R Limited Edition has set a new 2 mins 23.993 secs lap record for a front-wheel drive car at the Suzuka Circuit in Japan.

The Suzuka Circuit is a 5.8 km track famous for its high-speed chicanes and challenging corners, incorporated in a 'figure eight' layout that includes a long 1.2 km back straight that passes over an earlier part of the circuit.

With its lightweight components, suspension and steering upgrades, and a stripped-back, driver-focused interior, the Civic Type R Limited Edition is on sale across Europe now.

Widely regarded as a highlight in the Formula 1 calendar, Suzuka has been an important test bed for developing performance Honda vehicles and engines since 1962.

It was built on the instruction of company founder and president, Soichiro Honda, who famously said: "Automobiles cannot be improved if they are not put through their paces on the racing circuit."

The record-breaking lap was achieved by a Type R Limited Edition development car as it underwent its final performance evaluation in February 2020.

The development car featured the same technical specifications representative of the production version, with no modifications or performance enhancements.

Just 100 of the Type R Limited Edition will be built for Europe. The new Limited Edition features lightweight 20-inch forged BBS alloy wheels with high grip Michelin Pilot Sport Cup2 tyres. These provide a 10kg weight saving.

The new Limited Edition also has modified dampers and a recalibrated steering, and an Adaptive Damper System’s control software that evaluates road conditions faster, resulting in improved damper reactions for both better handling response.

"Throughout testing, the introduction of a new two-piece floating brake system demonstrated braking feel and deceleration power exactly as intended by the driver” added Hideki Kakinuma, Civic Type R Project Leader.

“Reduction of the unsprung weight from the lightweight forged wheels further improved road holding and increased traction during acceleration from the two tight Degner Curves and the famous 130R corner. An increase in engine cooling performance also enabled the vehicle to fully utilise its 320PS output to reach top speed on the back straight towards the end of the lap."

The new Limited Edition model retains the Type R’s powerful 2.0-litre VTEC Turbo engine.

Peak power output is 320PS at 6,500 rpm and peak torque is 400 Nm from 2,500 rpm to 4,500 rpm. 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) is achieved in 5.7 seconds.

The striking Type R Limited Edition will be available in an exclusive new colour, 'Sunlight Yellow', and will feature an exclusive dark chrome Civic badge on the rear hatch and a contrasting gloss black roof.

Gloss black wing mirrors and an intake vent on the bonnet complete its aggressive styling.

The interior has red bucket seats, a plaque marking the build number of the car, and an Alcantara-wrapped steering wheel and a newly designed teardrop style gear knob.

Infotainment and air conditioning systems are omitted to save weight, but the rear seats remain for everyday usability.

The new tyres and wheels, together with new lightweight components and a stripped-back interior all contribute to a 47kg weight reduction compared to the Type R GT variant.

Honda's 10th-generation Civic Type R GT broke the front-wheel drive lap record at the Nurburgring Nordschliefe in 2017 with a lap time of 7 minutes 43.8 seconds.

Following this success, a production specification Civic Type R GT went on to break front wheel drive production car records at five legendary European racetracks with Honda racing stars behind the wheel.


BMW AG first company in Germany certified as fair pay employer

                MUNICH: BMW AG is the first company in Germany to be awarded top-level certification from the Fair Pay Innovation Lab (FPI).

The document reaffirms that the company’s remuneration structures are fair, with no significant difference between the overall remuneration packages of women and men.

Based in Berlin, the FPI is a globally recognised certification organisation for fair pay.

The award of the Universal Fair Pay Check was announced by the FPI on March 7.

Fair pay and salaries foster inclusion and innovativeness, and motivate employees.

With skilled people in short supply, they make BMW an attractive employer, especially for women.

BMW AG said remuneration is based on group-wide role evaluations, collective pay agreements and, for management-grade employees, salary brackets, but also personal and company performance.

The same level of job, working hours, personal performance and professional experience are subject to equal pay across all BMW AG sites.

BMW AG has set up remuneration processes that ensure equal pay is not just for now but integral to a longer-term system.

The annual equal pay analysis, for example, is based on scientifically recognised analysis methods and allows annual assessments of the remuneration of men and women, fixed and variable elements included.

It identifies the adjusted and non-adjusted gender pay gaps.

In 2022 the non-adjusted pay gap at BMW AG was 1.3% in favour of female employees.

The adjusted gender pay gap, which takes into account structural factors such as salary group and professional experience, amounted to just under 1% in 2022 in favour of males – equivalent to near parity.


2017 Geneva Motor Show: AMR takes Aston Martin to new extremes

                GENEVA: Aston Martin has picked the 2017 Geneva Motor Show to launch AMR - a sub-brand that strengthens the connection between road and race cars. The Rapide AMR and Vantage AMR Pro concepts were unveiled in conjunction with the event.

AMR takes technology and inspiration from motorsport to amplify the sporting prowess present across the model range.

The Rapide represents the first tier of AMR, enhancing the four-door sports car with a suite of power, chassis and styling upgrades, plus a new interior treatment. The Vantage AMR Pro - heavily influenced by Aston Martin Racing’s WEC winning V8 Vantage GTE - is the flagship that shows off AMR’s "Track to Tarmac" philosophy whereby race technology is transferred to road cars.

While future development of the core AMR models will be part of Aston Martin’s central vehicle engineering teams, development of all AMR Pro models will be led by Q by Aston Martin Advanced Operations. The department - managed by Aston Martin’s VP and Chief Special Operations Officer, David King - has extensive experience of creating extreme Aston Martins, with recent projects including the Vantage GT12, Vantage GT8 and Aston Martin Vulcan.

Underlining Aston Martin’s commitment to its new high-performance brand, AMR’s European development and brand centre will be based at Aston Martin’s state-of-the-art Nürburgring Test Centre, which is located within sight of the Nürburgring Nordschleife race track.

The AMR brand follows in the wheeltracks of successive iconic Aston Martin road cars which boasted top-level racing pedigree. In the mid-1930s the success of Aston Martin’s Team Cars in the Ulster TT road race led the marque to build further examples of the lightweight two-seater for sale to the public.

[caption id="attachment_123929" align="aligncenter" width="1000"]The Vantage AMR Pro (left) and Rapide AMR concepts.

[/caption]

In 1951, Sir David Brown introduced uprated and highly desirable "Vantage" specification models, and steered the marque to an historic outright win at Le Mans with the iconic DBR1 in 1959.

Since the formation of Aston Martin Racing (AMR) in 2004, Aston Martin has enjoyed success in the FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC), winning the 2016 FIA WEC GT Drivers Championship, while also securing three class victories at the 24 Hours of Le Mans over this period. Similarly, Aston Martin Racing’s GT3 and GT4 racers have secured countless victories and championship titles around the world.


Porsche mulls joint projects with Apple

                FRANKFURT: Managers at Porsche late last year travelled to the United States to discuss possible joint projects with iPhone maker Apple as well as with some other tech companies, Porsche's CEO said today.

"We already have Apple CarPlay, we will expand on that," chief executive Oliver Blume said during a video conference on the carmaker's annual results today.

He said Porsche and Apple traditionally cooperate closely and that they were "on the same wavelength" but added that it was too soon to make any decisions on future projects.

Blume also said that Porsche was considering whether to enter Formula One, but said no decision has been made.

German newspaper Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung had reported in January that Volkswagen's supervisory board would decide at the end of February whether both its luxury brand Audi and Porsche would join F1.

 Blume.


Shell-BonusLink contest offers chance to win RM5,000 daily cash prize

                KUALA LUMPUR: Shell Malaysia has launched its latest Menang RM5,000 Hari-Hari contest that's aimed at strengthening customer loyalty.

The contest, which ends on Jan 7, 2018, is a joint effort between the Dutch oil and gas company and consumer rewards programme BonusLink.

To be a potential RM5,000 cash prize winner, consumers need to swipe their BonusLink card and refuel with a minimum spend of RM30 for any petrol/diesel fuel at any Shell retail station nationwide.

Additionally, winners of the contest will also be awarded an extra 50,000 BonusLink points if they swipe at another BonusLink partner within the same calendar month.

 Shairan (left) and BonusLink general manager Victor Goon showcasing the BonusLink card.

"The Menang RM5,000 Hari-Hari contest is one way to reward our customers, and help them to end the year on a high note," said Shell Malaysia Trading and Shell Timur managing director Shairan Huzani Husain.

For more information and to view the list of daily winners of the contest, log on to www.shell.com.my/LebihEkstra or www.bonuslink.com.my.


Honda Insurance Plus offers value to Malaysian car owners

                PETALING JAYA: Honda Malaysia has launched the Honda Insurance Plus (HiP) plan to provide comprehensive coverage for customers’ welfare and advantages.

Rescue

As unforeseen situations might happen on the road, HiP rescue teams are on call twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week, in order to help customers to get back on the road safely. Customers can call for assistance any time of day by dialling the nationwide HiP 24/7 emergency assistance line, 1-800-18-1177.

In times of accident, car breakdown or flood, the 24-hour emergency towing service will be dispatched to retrieve the affected Honda car and send it to the nearest Honda Authorised Body and Paint Centre within a 450km round trip radius for inspection and repair. At the same time, HiP members will be guided and updated constantly by the designated Honda Authorised Dealer on the claim procedure.

The insurance plan also offers roadside repair service with free labour up to RM200 per event such as jump-start, battery replacement, changing a flat tyre and fuel refill, exclusive of spare parts.

Protection

To ensure comprehensive protection for customers, Honda cars involved in accidents or breakdowns will be transported to a trusted Honda Authorised Body and Paint Centre and inspected by specialists who adhere to Honda standards.

To date, Honda Malaysia has 23 Authorised Body and Paint Centres nationwide that provide high quality service with certified technicians and are equipped with state-of-the-art tools and equipment to ensure that the cars are returned to the owners in the best possible condition.

In addition, all body and part replacements are 100% genuine and comes with six months warranty or 10,000km service warranty.

Customers will be able to get their cars back quicker and with faster claim approval, especially for pre-approved claims below RM20,000 repaired only at Honda Authorised Body and Paint Centres.

Savings

Aimed at providing security and relieving customers’ financial pressure, HiP comes with extended coverage terms and better savings on replacement costs. HiP members are eligible for coverage that includes 100% pay-out for theft or total loss due to accident based on the sum insured. There will be no hidden cost for new parts replacement for accident repairs for cars up to ten years old as well as 24 hours emergency towing.

Existing and new Honda customers can apply or renew their HiP at all authorised Honda dealers.

For more information on HiP, customers can visit any of the 98 authorised Honda dealerships nationwide or call Honda’s Toll Free number at 1-800-88-2020.