The year’s hottest new cars just got cold as ice

                NEW YORK: At least three years and about US$1 billion (RM4.3bil). That’s roughly what it takes to make a new vehicle, from drafting table to dealerships.

Car companies live and die by that long-range gamble—but every once in a while, the bet coincides with an economic disaster.

The coronavirus pandemic and its attendant recession may be the worst time to launch a car since, well, since we’ve had cars.

Selling a Model A was a tough task during the Great Depression, but at least dealerships were open and some assembly lines still humming.

The global auto industry of 2020 is witnessing an unprecedented, near-instantaneous drop in demand as potential customers steer clear of car lots, and dealers close up shop to comply with public health mandates.

Volkswagen, Honda, Hyundai, and Mazda each reported a more than 40% decline in US sales last month. For the year, S&P expects global auto sales to plummet almost 15%.

For sales of the most anticipated cars of 2020, the timing couldn’t be worse.

In a normal economy, the first few months for any shiny new machine are relative magic. Overeager customers clamour for the fanciest, most profitable versions, and dealers seldom have to offer discounts or incentives. Now, every sale (done online or over the phone) will be considered a coup.

What’s more, the newest machines aren’t just grocery getters—they’re the result of product decisions made during one of the industry’s hottest streaks—the fruits of bull market research and development. Many are bold bids for incremental business, niche cars that might not have received a green light in a shakier economy.

Among them are a few futuristic electric vehicles, which suddenly must contend with some of the lowest gas prices on record. Others are six-figure speed machines that were banking on Wall Street bonuses and swelling stock markets, neither of which seem likely in 2020.

What follows are some of most needle-moving whips rolled out in years—all for a pre-coronavirus world. With would-be buyers now focused on the grave crisis at hand, this is less a preview of automaker glory than a wistful look at what might have been.

SUVsLand Rover Defender

The much-anticipated new Land Rover Defender launches this year with the historic brand’s manufacturing sites shuttered. While the vehicle’s release remains on schedule, the first media test drives planned for April were predictably cancelled.

The good news for the British automaker though is that the off-road rig, a stalwart of British royalty for four decades, got a fair amount of publicity last year: The Defender’s official debut took place at the 2019 Los Angeles Auto Show, and it has been making the rounds on Instagram ever since.

Ford Bronco

Along with the Defender, the reborn Ford Bronco is one of the most hyped vehicles in years. In 1996, Ford parked the Bronco name (which dates back to the mid-1960s) after O.J. Simpson provided the worst kind of publicity.

In subsequent years, the seminal SUV became a design icon and collector’s item as Jeep took over ownership of the off-road adventure market. We were supposed to see the new Bronco on April 2, but its debut has been delayed.

Chevrolet Trailblazer ACTIV

In North America alone, the pandemic is destroying US$12 billion in potential sales each week while scrapping 331,000 vehicles that would otherwise have come off of assembly lines, according to Bloomberg Intelligence. Still, US automakers like Ford hope the second half of 2020 will allow them to make up some lost ground.

Crosstown rival Chevrolet has turned to Trailblazer, a nameplate that’s been defunct in the US since 2009, to carry its newest, small, crossover SUV.

With an optional three-cylinder engine and a sticker price below US$20,000, the little rig is aimed at young, outdoorsy folk.

Chevrolet, however, already has three smallish SUVs to sell.

Moreover, Kia is aiming for the just-right-size SUV market with its new Seltos, another middle child in a big family. The Seltos began selling in the US in February, before the coronavirus shutdowns began in earnest. For now, the machine is coming from factories in South Korea, which are still running.

Aston Martin DBX

Aston Martin’s make-or-break DBX, another latecomer to the luxury SUV game, is the first of its kind from the 107-year-old brand.

The automaker first showed the 542-horsepower DBX at the LA Auto Show in November 2019; media drives were planned for May. Those have been postponed and production at all the company’s manufacturing sites halted.

Meanwhile, Aston Martin doesn’t have enough working capital and still desperately needs the SUV to deliver drivers. The global crisis and its effect on demand may leave the company in a very bad place. Spokesman Nathan Hoyt says the vehicle’s US launch remains on track for the second half of the year.

Mercedes Maybach GLS 600

In the more opulent tier, the upcoming Mercedes Maybach GLS 600 SUV will compete against Bentley’s Bentayga and Rolls-Royce’s Cullinan. It has a V8 engine that churns out 550hp and 729Nm of torque, plus a 48-volt “EQ Boost” system that helps smooth out all that power.

The machine was scheduled to go on sale in the US in the second half of this year. But with Mercedes manufacturing at a standstill, it’s too early to say if that will remain the case, says a Mercedes representative.

Electric vehiclesTesla Cybertruck

When it comes to futuristic electric vehicles designed for an US$80-a-barrel world, Tesla products remain at the forefront, though the company has remained tightlipped about timing, given current events.

The all-electric flatbed Cybertruck that almost broke the Internet when it debuted last year is one hanging in the balance. The Blade Runner-style vehicle boasts driving range estimates of up to 800km and a zero-to-100kph sprint of 3.0 seconds.

Production is tentatively slated to begin in 2021, and Tesla is already taking deposits, but all this could change. Though initially unwilling, Elon Musk eventually shut down his California factories last month.

That shutdown also applies to Tesla’s Model Y, a compact electric SUV the company started delivering to customers in March, but has yet to be seen in the wild in significant numbers.

Rivian R1S

Rivian Motors set out to do for SUVs and trucks what Tesla had done for electric sedans.

It promises its R1S will be able to travel 640km on a single charge, drive through three feet of water and zip up to 100kph in three seconds, all with Costco-capable cargo space.

Rivian was planning to deliver its first SUV late this year; at the moment, its facilities are shuttered, including the former Mitsubishi plant in central Illinois, where it was mapping out assembly lines.

Ford Mustang Mach-E

Ford has also been hustling to finish its Mustang Mach-E, an all-new, all-electric vehicle whose November debut won broad praise for checking three critical boxes: good looks, long range, and performance specs that best gas-powered pony cars.

Now, dozens of early versions are cycling among the homes of Ford engineers, who disinfect each before continuing work. Pre-coronavirus, Ford said that the number of deposits for the machine was sizable, with a greater-than-expected share from drivers who had never owned a Ford.

Polestar 2

An additional electric offering has experienced unlikely progress.

Against all odds, the fastback Polestar 2, Polestar’s second vehicle and first all-electric car, started production on March 23 at Zhejiang Geely Holding’s plant in Luqiao, China.

First unveiled in February 2019 as a fierce potential rival to Tesla, the Polestar 2 produces 408hp and 660Nm of torque, with an estimated range of 470km. It remains unclear, though, how many units will be produced or when deliveries might begin.

BMW i4 Concept

Last month, BMW “e-revealed” the BMW i4 Concept, which had been slated to premier at the since-cancelled Geneva Auto Show. The company has yet to show the production version, but it’s expected to be an all-electric sedan that uses an 80-kilowatt-hour battery to get 530hp and 590km of driving range. Despite the current closure of BMW production plants, the i4 is expected to start selling towards the end of 2021. Says spokesman Thomas Plucinsky: “We don’t anticipate any delays.”

Sports carsFerrari Roma Coupe

The US$225,000 Ferrari Roma super car debuted in November in, of course, Rome.

But a total Ferrari production halt on March 14 included production of the 611-horsepower, V8 Roma, which was supposed to roll into dealerships towards the end of the year.

Ferrari hopes to eventually make up for the lost production with additional shifts. “No material impacts on deliveries and waiting list are foreseen at the moment,” a spokesman says.

Porsche 911 Turbo S

Spurred by a heady stock market, super expensive, super fast sports cars were enjoying a moment until March arrived. Porsche had big plans to roll out the 640-horsepower, muscle-y 911 Turbo S version of its franchise machine with group media drives.

Instead, the company delivered the 640-horsepower machines one by one via fleet drivers prepped on disinfection and social distancing.

Porsche’s plants in Zuffenhausen and Leipzig have been silent since March 21, and Porsche Experience Centers in LA and Atlanta, where the Porsche-curious take test drives and track lessons, sit empty.

McLaren Elva

Over in England, the US$1.7 million McLaren Elva super car packs a punch: 804hp on a V8 engine and rear-wheel drive. It’ll do zero to 200kph in just 6.7 seconds, which makes it faster than its sibling, the track-suited Senna.

McLaren had planned to build just 399 of them, each one customised through the company’s special-ops MSO division and delivered at the end of 2020.

“We will continue with all possible design and engineering activities that we can at this stage,” says Roger Ormisher, vice president of communications at McLaren. The carmaker will “then finalise physical development once staff are back at MTC, with the plan to deliver Elva into production as close as we can to Q4 2020.”

Lotus Evija

Finally, Lotus is trying to piece together its first new vehicle in more than a decade. The machine, dubbed Evija, is stunning—and costs US$2.1 million.

Shaped like a spaceship with trimmed sides and massive wheels, it boasts nearly 2,000hp generated from four electric motors, as well as a zero-to-100kph sprint of fewer than three seconds.

Only 130 will be built by the legendary British automaker. As for when they will be built, that will be determined later.

Production has halted at Lotus’s Norwich headquarters while engineers continue tweaking designs from home.

“The vehicle development process is as it was—just not in the offices,” says Rob Borrett, a company spokesman.


Tesla starts selling new set of all-weather floor mats for Model 3

                SAN FRANCISCO: Last year, Tesla launched a set of all-weather Model 3 floor mats floor whose design and price tag were easily outshined by third-party vehicle accessory manufacturers.

Over the weekend, as spotted by Electrek, the company released a new set of mats with a refreshed design just in time for rainy and snowy autumn weather.

Like the set that was released in 2018, these weather-proof mats are made completely of recyclable materials and are cadmium-, lead-, latex-, and PVC-free. On the other hand, these liners feature structured walls to keep dirt, water, and other debris from reaching the Tesla's carpet interior.

Compared to last year's version, these mats are US$50 (RM210) more, settling in at US$195 (RM816); however, flat liners typically retail for less than US$60 (RM251) by third-party vendors.

Structured mats that more properly protect the vehicle available from non-Tesla brands are usually priced around US$200 (RM837), making Tesla's version quite competitive for the first time.


BMW donates five turbocharged 2.0-litre engines to varsities and colleges

                CYBERJAYA: BMW Group Malaysia has given five of its BMW TwinPower Turbo 2.0-Litre 4 Cylinder engines to five Malaysian engineering universities and colleges for research and development and to enhance engineering expertise.

The universities and colleges were University Malaysia Pahang, Infrastructure University Kuala Lumpur, Taylor’s University, International College of Automotive and The Otomotif College.

“Working with engineering universities and colleges here provides us with the opportunity to share and grow expertise, skills and indirectly helps drive innovation for the automotive industry in the country," said BMW Group Malaysia managing director and CEO Alan Harris.

"It is our way of creating value for the industry, which is a core principle of the BMW Group.”

Last year, the company had started a partnership with Universiti Teknologi Malaysia in Johor to improve supply chain and logistics management.


Pulau Indah Expressway an accident-prone stretch

                KLANG: The 17.7km Pulau Indah Expressway is a dangerous stretch where many accidents have taken place.

There have been more than 2,300 accidents along that road since 2017, with 26 deaths.

Deplorable road conditions and aggressive driving are the main reasons for the expressway’s notoriety.

South Klang OCPD Assistant Commissioner Shamsul Amar Ramli attributed the hundreds of accidents there to bad visibility due to rain, unsafe road conditions, drivers not adhering to the speed limit and faulty street lights along certain stretches.

“The (bad) road conditions are also the cause of accidents and this needs to be addressed.

“On our side, the police carry out traffic enforcement to curb aggressive driving and speedsters, and we want to remind all motorists to exercise caution while on the Pulau Indah Expressway,” he said.

ACP Shamsul said about 300 summonses were issued for various traffic offences from January to April this year.

An estimated 50,000 vehicles plying this route daily mostly comprise people living on Pulau Indah where the Selat Lumut Bridge connects mainland Port Klang to the island.

“The most dangerous stretch is after the expressway, parallel to Muhibbah Marine Engineering, heading towards Westport, where there is a sharp bend.

“Many accidents have occurred here and the street lights have been out for some time,” he said.

ACP Shamsul said he had proposed several times at the Klang Municipal Council full board meetings to have a motorcycle lane on the expressway.

Opened in 1995, the four-lane Pulau Indah Expressway connects Pandamaran via the six-lane Shah Alam Expressway (Kesas) to Westport on Pulau Indah.

Motorists use this route to get to Westport, Port Klang Free Trade Zone and the Boustead Cruise Centre on Pulau Indah.

Union of Employees of Port Ancillaries Services Suppliers secretary A. Balasubramaniam said there have been many road deaths on the expressway.

“Based on my observation, this is due to aggressive driving, potholes, and pitch-dark conditions for a few kilometres,” he said.

“Even after patching up the potholes, they reappear and it’s an accident waiting to happen.

“The Public Works Department (JKR) must do resurfacing work to improve the road.”

Balasubramanian added that the Federal Government must allocate funds to improve the expressway that sees hundreds of people from the B40 group travelling to Pulau Indah for work.

“A solution to the problem is long overdue. We hope the Works Minister will visit this expressway soon to understand the dangerous situation the workers face daily.”

Malaysian Trades Union Congress, Safety, Occupational Health and Environmental Bureau chairman Matkar Siwang urged the Federal Government to widen the expressway into six lanes to cope with the traffic congestion.

“We want a motorcycle lane because it is dangerous for motorcyclists to share a lane with huge trailers and lorries.”

Matkar added that driving on the expressway was unnerving because of the bad road conditions.

“A risk-mapping exercise should be done to identify dangerous spots in an effort to reduce the number of accidents there.” Klang JKR district engineer Syaharidanisman Mohd Johanis said the expressway is being upgraded and involves metre-deep repairs.

“Roadworks are being done in stages. This is under Phase Two of the Works Ministry’s project that began on April 13 and will be completed by April 12, 2021, at a cost of around RM300mil.”

Syaharidanisman said due to the nature of the soil, which is marine clay, multiple layers need to be strengthened for better drainage and even distribution of vehicle weight.

“It involves a lot of work and all is going on as planned.”

He said the problems of potholes and non-functioning street lights would be addressed, and added that JKR was also widening the expressway although the number of lanes would remain the same.


TC Trucks Sales opens new showroom in Johor

                JOHOR BAHRU: TC Trucks Sales Sdn Bhd (TCTS) has officially launched its latest and modern new showroom in Bukit Indah here in a commitment to expand its network in the southern region.

The latest showroom at Wisma Tan Chong along Jalan Indah 15/2 here at Bukit Indah here, augurs well for TCTS given Johor Bahru growing population and close proximity to Singapore.

The new TCTS showroom covers a total build-up area of 2,912 sq ft with space to display a light commercial truck and a pick-up truck with a cosy customer lounge.

Products offered are Foton and JMC vehicle brands such as the Foton Auman heavy-duty and light-duty trucks as well as the JMC Vigus Pro 4X4 AT pick-up truck.

TCTS sales director Law Ah Tiong said the new showroom would allow the company to serve customers better and grow its business in this region.

“This new showroom is part of our effort to improve our network and provide ease and convenience to the community. We will continue to enhance and upgrade our sales and service to provide the best services to our customers,” he said.

TCTS also works closely with Angka-Tan Motors, the Foton and JMC national distributor in Malaysia and their principals, by actively providing feedback and market demands to ensure the company offers the right products.

Operating hours for Bukit Indah showroom are:
Monday – Friday: 8.15am–6.15pm
Saturday – Sunday and public holiday: 10am–4pm
Tel: 016-783 3344


600hp Polestar hyper coupé debuts, sale via subscription

                SHANGHAI: If every car that it builds is exciting as the Polestar 1, Volvo's decision to spin off its racing and tuning arm as a standalone environmentally responsible sportscar company could be one of the best it's ever made.

Unveiled at a special event in China, where the new cars will be built, the Polestar 1 will go on sale in 2019 and is described by its creators as a 2+2 grand tourer coupé.

"Polestar 1 is the first car to carry the Polestar on the bonnet. A beautiful GT with amazing technology packed into it - a great start for our new Polestar brand," said Thomas Ingenlath, Volvo's former chief of design and the current CEO of Polestar.

The inaugural Polestar uses a hybrid powertrain to deliver a combined 600hp and 1000Nm of torque and, at 150km, it can travel further on pure battery power than any plug-in hybrid currently on sale anywhere in the world.

However, as the brand grows and the technology underpinning it matures, Polestar will move away from internal combustion assistance altogether. "All future cars from Polestar will feature a fully electric drivetrain, delivering on our brand vision of being the new standalone electric performance brand," said Ingenlath.

The new car closely follows the lines and creases of the achingly beautiful 2013 Volvo coupé concept that debuted at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show (and which Ingenlath penned) and that made such a huge impression on the car-obsessed that Volvo executives were inundated with demands for the car to become a reality.

Four years later that reality has arrived, and the car doesn't just look sporting, it promises to deliver on those aesthetics. It has a weight-reducing but rigidity-increasing carbon fiber shell. It is the first production car to use Öhlins Continuously Controlled Electronic Suspension and the addition of a double electric rear axle means that the car can push torque to the wheel that needs it most in a millisecond.

Those that want this limited production car will have to have a very fast Internet connection as all ordering and specification will take place exclusively online. And, as for the price tag, Polestar isn't charging a lump sum, rather a subscription over two or three years.

This fee will cover all aspects of ownership and maintenance from automated collection for servicing and return at a designated location.

The system will also permit owners to loan their cars to others via the smartphone as a key system that can give a third party geotagged, time-controlled access to the car, with the accompanying app.

Digital order books for the Polestar I will open Tuesday.

And, for those that want something less sporting but even more environmentally responsible, on Tuesday the company confirmed that Polestar 2, which will be a true mass-produced car, will be an all-electric compact car aimed squarely at those otherwise considering a Tesla Model 3 when it is revealed in 2019, while the third new Polestar, due a year later, will be a larger SUV-style plug-in electric car.


Lord March first non-pro driver to steer Bugatti Chiron hypercar

LONDON: Festival of Speed founder Lord March became the first non-professional driver on Sunday to drive the new Bugatti Chiron.

The quad-turbocharged hypercar appears set to become the fastest production car ever made, Bugatti claiming a top speed of 420kph and 0-100kph time of just 2.3-seconds. This 1,479bhp, eight-litre, W16-engine monster costs around £1.9m (RM10.5mil), and is a replacement for the not exactly slow Veyron 16.4. Just 500 are set to be built.

 Lord March.

Lord March enjoyed every second of his outing up the Hill. He said: "In terms of an overall automotive experience, that was at the very top - unbelievable power, yet unbelievably drivable. It was a full rush for all the senses."

Earlier, the Bugatti super sports car was presented at the legendary hill climb – piloted by British racing driver and Le Mans winner Andy Wallace, who has been an official Bugatti driver since 2011.

Bugatti is preparing for the start of series production of the Chiron at the company’s headquarters in Molsheim, Alsace, France. The super sports car is to be produced in a limited series of 500 vehicles. More than 200 customers have already ordered their Chiron and the first vehicle is due to be delivered to a customer in the autumn of 2016.

Since 1993, the Goodwood Festival of Speed has been one of the international highlights in the calendar for motorsports enthusiasts and fans of racing cars of all vintages. Every year in June, about 200,000 visitors flock to Goodwood House to the north of Chichester, 129km south-west of here. The highlight of the event is the famous hill climb; the vehicles entering this event drive over a 1.86km course with nine bends over the hill at Goodwood.


Land Rover launches off-road competition for US drivers

                FLAGSTAFF (Arizona): There's no end of competitions run by motor manufacturers to win all sorts of things these days, but the vast majority require very little by way of effort, regardless of how big or small the prizes are. That's not the case with one Land Rover has just launched in the United States though.

The British luxury 4x4 manufacturer is now running a competition where US consumers have the chance to win one of four places on the Land Rover Experience Tour Peru 2017. It certainly isn't a case of winning a raffle to get one of the places on offer, as the events run across four separate locations are genuine off-road trials.

The first of the four trials was held at the Overland Expo West in Flagstaff, Arizona at the weekend. A further three winners will be selected from further trials to be conducted at each of the three Land Rover Experience Driving Schools located in California, Vermont and North Carolina.

Each of the four trials are free to enter, and full details can be found by visiting the Land Rover Experience website or by calling any of the three Land Rover Experience (LRE) Driving Centers of Quail Lodge in Carmel, California; the Equinox Resort in Manchester, Vermont; or the Biltmore Estate in Asheville, North Carolina. Anyone who wasn't successful at the Overland Expo West event is allowed to enter once more at any one of the three LRE locations.

When the four winners have been selected, they'll then travel in two pairs to join separate waves of the Land Rover Experience Tour Peru 2017. One pair will take part between Oct 28 and Nov 3 to negotiate more than 800km of challenging terrain from Cusco, through Machu Piccu, Pitchari, Satipo, and concluding in Huancayo. The second pair will join the event between Nov 4 and Nov 9, leaving Huancayo for a 644km journey over the Peruvian mountains and across the desert to Pisco in Peru.

Contestants on the trials are required to drive a Land Rover-designed off-road course where they'll be judged on the precision of their obstacle tackling and their speed for safely completing the course.

Consumers will be able to sign up for a spot on one of the trials from June 1 by visiting the LRE website or by contacting one of the US or Canadian LRE Driving Schools.


VIDEO: Ford Fusion V6 Sport's suspension avoids potholes

                The latest Ford Fusion V6 Sport is the first vehicle in the company’s line-up to feature continuously controlled damping and pothole mitigation technology as standard against the likes of the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry.

Ford’s test facility at the Lommel Proving Ground in Belgium was used to replicate the effects of the world’s worst potholes and other extreme surfaces with its 1.9km pothole-ridden track.

Onboard computers analyse multiple signals collected from 12 high-resolution sensors – adjusting the dampers every two milliseconds for the best vehicle response in every situation.

When the edge of a pothole is detected, the car’s computer quickly adjusts the dampers to its stiffest settings to limit the wheel and tyre’s downward travel into the pothole and won’t strike the opposite side of the pothole as harshly.

The rear suspension can respond even faster, with a signal from the front wheel providing a pre-warning to the rear wheel well before it reaches the pothole.

With an estimated output of 325hp from the Fusion V6 Sport’s 2.7-litre twin-turbo EcoBoost V6 engine, not only can it deal with potholes, but also possess improved handling characteristics.

Two suspension modes of normal and sport are available at the push of the button, with the former providing a balance of comfort and handling for daily driving, while sport mode increases the overall damping rates to improve responses to driver input and to help the car corner flatter when at speed.

According to the American Automobile Association, pothole damage cost US drivers approximately US$3 (RM12) billion a year and drivers report paying US$300 (RM1,200) to repair pothole-related vehicle damage.

“The new Fusion V6 Sport substantially reduces the harsh impact potholes often deliver. Our new pothole mitigation technology works by actually detecting potholes and ‘catching’ the car’s wheel before it has a chance to drop all the way into the pothole,” said Ford continuously controlled damping engineering expert Jason Michener

“We tested and tuned this system by driving over countless potholes – subjecting Fusion V6 Sport to the brutal, square-edged potholes of our Romeo Proving Grounds to finesse the software,” he added.

The all-new Fusion V6 Sport with continuously controlled damping and pothole mitigation technology is due to arrive at Ford dealerships in the US in the second quarter this year.


LEGO’s Harley-Davidson Fat Boy cruising into Malaysia

                KUALA LUMPUR: LEGO Malaysia has launched its latest LEGO Creator Expert model, the first-of-its-kind Harley-Davidson Fat Boy.

“Bringing this Harley-Davidson motorcycle to life in brick form is incredibly exciting. The model truly captures the iconic design, advanced engineering and attention to detail of this iconic motorcycle, offering an immersive building experience and a unique collector’s item for Harley-Davidson enthusiasts and LEGO fans of all ages,” said LEGO Group design master Mike Psiaki.

The LEGO Creator Expert Harley-Davidson Fat Boy is priced at RM459.90 and measures in at 200mm-high, 180mm-wide and 330mm-long - requiring 1,023 LEGO bricks to build.

Fans get to explore the finer details of this iconic piece of engineering with it’s solid-disc Lakester wheels with beefy tyres to its teardrop fuel tank with printed logos and inbuilt speedometer.

Other features include a Milwaukee-Eight engine with moving pistons, dual exhaust pipes, handlebar steering, movable gearshift pedal and brake levers, kickstand and a sturdy display stand.

Arriving in an authentic dark red and black colour scheme, spinning the rear wheel brings the engine's pistons to life.

“The authenticity of Harley-Davidson design comes by sweating the details from start to finish. We looked at every nut and bolt on the bike, all the finishes, and every small detail. Working with the LEGO team on this project allowed us to bring that same attention to detail to a collaborative product, and to celebrate a brand that inspired the imagination and creativity of many of us at Harley-Davidson from a young age, including myself,” said Harley-Davidson vice president (styling & design) Brad Richards.


McLaren reveals Carbon Theme Senna

                LONDON: McLaren will be taking its incredible new Senna model to the Geneva Motor Show in Switzerland next week. The 789hp hypercar will be created in five different themes, and one of them, the "Carbon Theme," has been revealed in some official images published by McLaren.

As you would expect from the name, there's a lot of carbon fibre going on here, and the interior echoes the theme by using a Carbon Black Alcantara trim. On the outside there are no less than 67 Visual Carbon Fiber parts, which the British sports car manufacturer says took nearly 1,000 hours to produce.

These parts are then further accentuated by the use of Solar Yellow and Laurel Green detailing, which is an obvious but tasteful nod to the F1 legend the car is named after, who always wore a helmet decorated in the colours of his home country of Brazil. The car itself costs £750,000, but choosing the Carbon Theme adds a further £300,000 to that not-inconsiderable price tag.

That's not all though, because McLaren can also fit a set of ultra-lightweight MSO 7-Spoke Hybrid Carbon Fiber wheels as another optional upgrade, if buyers wish. These stunning center-lock wheels boast a forged aluminum and carbon fibre construction, which means compared to the standard wheels they reduce the weight by 10 percent and rolling inertia by 10 to 15 percent. This inevitably helps to improve the acceleration, braking and steering response of the car.

"The McLaren Senna customers in specifying their own, personalised cars are almost without exception commissioning an elevated level of MSO content, so we are definitely appealing to our target audience," said McLaren's Special Operations managing director Ansar Ali.

"With the car having generated so much interest since its unveiling in December, we knew we needed to produce something very special in order to showcase the unique talents of McLaren Special Operations."

What was perhaps more interesting about the Carbon Black Senna was a snippet saying McLaren would make a "surprise announcement" at the Geneva Motor Show. Considering the pricing and exclusivity of the Senna, and the fact the production run of 500 is already sold out, it's hard to imagine the company announcing more units will be produced.

At least we won't have long to wait to find out as the show opens next week.


Futuristic Nissan BladeGlider on parade in Rio Olympics - VIDEOS

                RIO DE JANEIRO: Nissan unveiled on Thursday the working prototype of its futuristic BladeGlider vehicle, combining zero-emissions with high-performance in a new sports car design.

The vehicles, developed from concept cars first shown at the Tokyo Auto Show in 2013, have arrived in Brazil to symbolise future technologies that will combine Intelligent Mobility, environmentally-friendly impact and sports-car driving capabilities.

The debut of the BladeGlider prototypes forms part of Nissan’s ongoing commitment to the development of zero-emission vehicles and new automotive technologies including autonomous drive systems and connectivity. Nissan already sells the world’s highest-volume zero-emission car, the LEAF, and is pioneering Intelligent Mobility systems that will be deployed in a range of vehicles over coming years.

With the BladeGlider, Nissan’s vision was for an agile, efficient EV that would provide new dimensions of driving fun and excitement - a car that would "glide:, thanks to the near-silent performance of its electric powertrain and aerodynamic shape.

After two years of work on design, engineering and development, Nissan BladeGlider has evolved further into an exciting, real-life study into the potential of advanced EV performance. BladeGlider epitomises Intelligent Mobility, a philosophy to make its cars more exciting by redefining how they are driven, powered and integrated into society.

The demonstration models feature an advanced chassis configuration with a narrow front track and wider rear track for optimum aerodynamic efficiency and handling stability.

High-waisted, rear-hinged dihedral doors provide a dramatic entry and exit to the cabin. The open roof of BladeGlider is reinforced with an integrated roll-over protection structure, providing the exhilaration of an open-topped race car with the safety of a coupé.

Wheel-mounted controls for BladeGlider’s systems feed into an advanced display showing speed, state of battery charge, regeneration mode and torque map. Flanking the central display are two screens, with the images of rear-view cameras mounted just behind the front wheels. An alternative to door-mounted mirrors, this dual screen design improves the aerodynamic efficiency of BladeGlider. The driver sits in arrowhead formation slightly in front of two passengers, who enjoy extended legroom. The view for all occupants is panoramic, thanks to the seamless cockpit windscreen.

Power is 100 percent electric, with exceptional powertrain performance delivered by Nissan’s technical partner for the BladeGlider project, UK-based Williams Advanced Engineering. Maximum speed of the demonstration models is in excess of 190kph, with 0-100kph taking less than 5 seconds. The rear wheels’ drive is provided by two 130kW electric motors – one for each wheel.

The system features torque vectoring, controlling the torque delivered to the driven wheels, improving the handling even further. With torque vectoring, if the car starts to understeer, it automatically sends more torque to the outside wheel to restore the handling balance.

Designed to add to the driving experience rather than govern it, the torque vectoring systems has three settings: off, agile and drift mode.

Power is supplied by a high performance five module lithium-ion 220kW battery. Bespoke cooling systems have been developed for both the battery and the motors.

The interior of the BladeGlider reflects the vehicles’ sporting intentions, with four point safety harnesses for each occupant. The seats offer exceptional support to sides and legs of the driver and passengers. The seats are trimmed in a highly tactile blend of fabric and epoxy resin coating, resulting in a tough and grippy material that has the effect of comfortably adhering occupants securely in place.

There are two colour trims – Cyber Green and Stealth Orange. These colours are used for the upper portions of the seat back, and framed with a silver reflective material to create an eye-catching, sporty look. The base of the seats are in black, patterned material, with a band of green and orange trim framing the cushion.

“These prototypes epitomise Nissan’s drive to expand its Intelligent Mobility strategy, where driving pleasure combines with environmental responsibility," said Nissan president and CEO said Carlos Ghosn.

"Nissan believes that enthusiasts should look forward to a zero emission future and BladeGlider is a perfect demonstration of that. It’s the electric vehicle for car-lovers.”

Two BladeGliders will be presented here this month. One will be on static display in Rio while the second will be offering rides to media and VIPs.


2015 LA Auto Show: Scion goes exploring

 The C-HR Concept.

LOS ANGELES: Toyota's Scion is showing different facets of itself at the ongoing Los Angeles Auto Show.

First up is Scion FR-S Release Series 2.0. Touted as the most most exclusive Scion release series yet and with only 1,000 units for sale, the variant is stylistically simple but comes with luxurious appointments and premium features, including heated seats in black Alcantara and leather with camel-coloured accents; Lunar Storm paint and 17-inch forged alloy wheels; Smart key with push-button start; dual-zone automatic climate control and HID headlamps with LED daylight running lamps.

A high-riding concept was also on display Named for its Compact size and High Ride height, the C-HR Concept incorporates distinctive styling and sporty performance. The versatile hatch and sophisticated touches aim to meet the lifestyle needs of the young urban creatives who inspired the design.

 Eddie Huang Scion iA.

Huang and Skybound Entertainment took the Scion iA, which is based on the Mazda2, and re-imagined it as a classic lowrider, outfitting the iA with a chain-link steering wheel, custom swivel front seats and a one-of-a kind gold-plated grille. The hood features a mural of a “human panda,” which is how Huang refers to himself.

 Skybound Entertainment/Robert Kirkman Outcast Scion iA.

Fans of The Walking Dead will appreciate Skybound Entertainment’s execution of Robert Kirkman’s latest comic book, Outcast. With the theme of demonic possession, the orange, black and green-toned car moves and operates on its own via pneumatic movements of multiple components and an automated sequence of light and audio effects.

Scion has also worked with LA streetwear designer Chris Stamp to produce a collection of jackets, shirts and pants.

The auto show runs from Nov 20-29.


Proton gets 7,000 bookings for new Persona

                SHAH ALAM: Proton has received 7,000 bookings to date for the new Persona.

Group managing director Datuk Seri Syed Faisal Albar Syed A.R. Albar said the latest Persona has been well received since it was launched on Aug 23.

"We are quite happy with the numbers and we are on track to achieve the sales target of between 3,000 and 4,000 units per month, a target that was mentioned previously by Proton chief executive officer Datuk Ahmad Fuaad Mohd Kenali," he told reporters at the appreciation ceremony for Malaysian Olympic Medallists here on Wednesday.

The new Persona is the second generation of the Persona family, first introduced in 2007.

At the appreciation ceremony, Proton and its parent company, DRB-Hicom Holdings Bhd, awarded national shuttler Datuk Lee Chong Wei, who won three silver medals in the Olympics, with a Perdana.

The other silver medallists, Pandelela Rinong and Cheong Jun Hoong (women's synchronised 10m platform diving); Chan Peng Soon and Goh Liu Ying (badminton mixed doubles); as well as Goh V Shem and Tan Wee Kiong (badminton men's doubles) were each presented with a Suprima S 1.6L Turbo Premium.

National track cyclist Azizulhasni Awang received the Persona for winning the bronze medal in the men's keirin event.

As for the rewards for Malaysian Paralympians who won medals in Rio de Janeiro, Syed Faisal Albar said DRB-Hicom had announced that it will reward them with umrah packages.

"Naza Group is planning to reward the Paralympians with a car, however, we think it is redundant to also give them a car," he said.

"In fact one of them (Paralympians) mentioned that he wishes to bring his parents for umrah, so based on this, we want to give them something meaningful," said Syed Faisal Albar.


Perodua rubbishes Axia defect allegations

                PETALING JAYA: Perodua has dismissed allegations on social media that the Axia has a steering lock defect.

It said it has found the allegations on its smallest model to be false after it and several government agencies have conducted detailed investigations.

On the other hand, it accused "some quarters" of trying to damage its brand.

"We are working with the authorities to identify those involved and we will consider appropriate action deemed fit,"it said in a statement.

It said all its vehicles undergo strict safety procedures and tests set inhouse as well as by government agencies such as Sirim and the Road Transportation Department.

It urged customers to offer feedback directly to the company as it has a team to solve any issues concerning its products and services.


Tesla offers discount in Singapore on EVs in inventory

                SINGAPORE: Tesla has begun offering discounts to electric vehicle buyers in Singapore who agree to purchase existing inventory of the Model 3 or Model Y, a company sales representative said today.

Tesla is offering a discount of US$5,000 for electric vehicle purchasers who trade in an existing internal combustion vehicle and another US$5,000 credit against the cost of the certificate to operate a car in Singapore.

In addition, for qualified buyers who have a place for home installation, Tesla will provide the wall connector for charging, although the consumer has to pay for the cost of installation.

The limited-term discounts in Singapore come just days after Tesla cut prices in China, South Korea, Japan and Australia.


Mitsubishi announces lineup for 2016 Paris Motor Show

                TOKYO: Mitsubishi Motors Corporation has announced its official lineup for the 2016 Paris Motor Show, which includes the world premiere of the GT-PHEV Concept SUV. The concept model is powered by MMC's plug-in hybrid EV (PHEV) system which comprises three motors.

The GT-PHEV will be the centrepiece of the MMC booth and will be surrounded by a variety of plug-in hybrid vehicles (PHEV) and 100% electric vehicles (EV) to support the booth's theme of "Driving Beyond: Another Step Forward with SUVs and Electric Power."

Joining the GT-PHEV concept at the MMC booth will be the eX concept, a compact SUV powered by an EV system, and 2017 model year European market versions of the Outlander and Outlander PHEV – both being shown for the first time.

The GT-PHEV Concept is a high-end next-generation SUV that is designed to handle a variety of road surface conditions. The concept feature's MMC's latest design language paired with an advanced and proprietary electric and all-wheel control technologies.

In its overall design, the GT-PHEV Concept projects the image of a "ground tourer" – a car made for cruising across vast distances.

Inside the GT-PHEV Concept uses a horizontal dashboard that creates a spacious ambiance, making it easier for the driver to sense changes in vehicle attitude. Together with an instrument panel with a high centre console, the cockpit-like interior wraps around its passengers, providing a sense of solace and security. Generous use of the burgundy genuine leather trim, colour coordinated with the exterior roof colour is another touch in creating a classy and comfortable interior space.

The PHEV system features improved electricity generation performance and motive performance. This combination delivers the performance ideal for a "ground tourer" and also makes for comfortable driving on longer trips with an electric-only range of 120km and a combined hybrid cruising range of over 1,200km. The triple-motor powertrain, with one unit at the front and two at the rear, delivers a dramatic improvement in the performance of its full-time four-wheel drive powertrain and MMC's own Super All Wheel Control (S-AWC) integrated vehicle dynamics system, bringing new levels of handling stability.

The Mitsubishi GT-PHEV Concept also adopts the latest in connected car technology in extracting its performance and functionality to the fullest. The technology feeds route information back to the car as well as data on weather and road surface conditions acquired from information networks.


KYB Pro-X series shock absorbers for two-wheelers debut

                TELOK PANGLIMA GARANG (Selangor): KYB-UMW Malaysia has introduced its Pro-X series shock absorbers which promises higher level of handling performance, ride stability and safety.

Pro-X, which is the abbreviation of “Product Extreme,” is designed, developed and produced locally.

The premium shock absorber comes with a gold-coloured sub-tank and red or yellow coils springs to add a stylish appearance to motorcycles and scooters.

Designed for the rear suspension, Pro-X shock absorbers also increase the rear height slightly to reduce tail sagging.

 Mizuno launching the company's Pro-X performance shock absorbers in Teluk Panglima Garang, Selangor, today.

Pro-X shock absorbers with external sub-tanks are designed to contain 50% more oil than regular shock absorbers and this helps in reducing heat build-up during long distance or extreme riding for consistent damping performance. The sub-tank also has an internal bladder system to ensure smooth damping action.

The combination of higher damping force and spring rate set in Pro-X shock absorbers results in better ride comfort, dynamic performance and enhanced tyre traction control. This combination also allows riders to achieve improved stability on uneven roads and during cornering at high speeds.

At the moment, the Pro-X shock absorbers are available for the Yamaha Lagenda and NVX 155 models. Pro-X series for the Honda Wave and EX5, as well as the Yamaha RXZ and Nouvo models will be produced by the end of the year.

“Pro-X is a new product targeted at motorcycle enthusiasts who want high performance shock absorbers that are stylish and fit their personality,” said KYB-UMW Malaysia managing director Iwao Mizuno at the launch of Pro-X at its factory here.

He also said that Pro-X shock absorbers are made with high grade materials and advanced oil filling technology from KYB Japan are used to eliminate air bubbles from being trapped in the oil chamber during production. A single unit of the Pro-X shock absorber costs around RM200.

Pro-X shock absorbers are available in spare part shops nationwide.


Perodua banks on Sabah and Sarawak as top market for Aruz

                KUCHING: Perodua is aiming for its new seven-seater Aruz to top the SUV sales charts in Sabah and Sarawak, a predominantly SUV-driven market.

“Perodua is targeting to expand further its East Malaysian market share from 40% currently, and the Aruz will spearhead that expansion,” said Perodua president and CEO Datuk Zainal Abidin Ahmad on Saturday.

He was here to flag off the Perodua Aruz TransBorneo Convoy, in which six units of the Aruz will be travelling 1,500km from Kuching to Tawau from March 16-22.

Along the way, the convoy will be calling at major towns and cities including Sibu, Bintulu, Miri, Kota Kinabalu, Ranau and Sandakan to engage with local communities and councils, allowing them to get up close to and experience the new Perodua SUV.

Perodua has delivered over 4,000 units out of over 14,000 bookings nationwide to date.

The Aruz X is sold at RM74,900 while the AV variant is RM79,900 in Sabah and Sarawak.

READ MORE: Perodua Aruz launched in Jan 2019


Transport Ministry releases guidelines for motorcycle delivery riders

                PETALING JAYA: Guidelines for motorcycle riders who are booked to deliver parcels and food via online applications have been released by the Transport Ministry.

Minister Datuk Seri Dr Wee Ka Siong said businesses offering motorcycle rider services to deliver food, beverage and parcels will be classified as “p-hailing services”.

In a statement today, he set out the guidelines for p-hailing riders, which are:

> Riders are advised against using inter-state highways to travel further than 10km and must adhere to advisories by the National Security Council (NSC), including avoiding red zones. It is compulsory for riders to use only gazetted motorcycle lanes, where possible, while wearing clearly visible attire.

> All riders must carry with them at all times authorisation letters from their employers or the relevant local authority.

> All p-hailing riders must download and register themselves under the mySejahtera app, which is by the National Security Council (NSC), as further validation for enforcement personnel. (More information can be obtained at mysejahtera.malaysia.gov.my)

> Operating hours for riders are limited between 8am to 8pm every day under the movement control order (MCO). Other operating hours and permitted delivery items are subject to zonal restrictions and regulations stipulated by the NSC.

> All operators and riders must use proper social distancing and contactless transaction practices. These include wearing face masks, using hand sanitisers and frequently washing hands after making each delivery.

> Riders are to sanitise their delivery boxes daily according to guidelines by the Health Ministry.

> If an employee is found to be infected with Covid-19, the employer must fully assist the Health Ministry to manage the employee and carry out contact tracing.

> For p-hailing services registered with a local authority, any rider that contracts Covid-19 or shows symptoms must immediately take the necessary steps to self-isolate and cease to provide delivery services.

> All businesses must ensure that their riders have the appropriate insurance coverage, with their motorcycles in safe working condition.

> All riders must be at least 18 years of age, possess a valid driver’s licence and not blacklisted by the Road Transport Department (RTD) or Royal Malaysian Police.

> All riders must adhere to general traffic regulations, such as by wearing motorcycle helmets. Boxes carried by p-hailing motorcycle riders must also adhere to dimensions and usage as prescribed by the RTD.

Dr Wee expressed hope that with these guidelines, Malaysians “will be assured that their food and parcel deliveries will be safe and hygienic without risk of contamination during the current pandemic situation”.

For further information, members of the public can contact the Ministry via email at aduan@mot.gov.my, WhatsApp to 019-290 7723, hotline at 1-800-88-7723 (from 8am to 8pm) or visit cccovid19.mot.gov.my.


Volvo says software issues delay EX90 production

                GOTHENBURG: Volvo Car AB will delay the production start of its electric flagship SUV because the company needs more time for software development and testing.

Output of the EX90 is now expected to begin in the first half of 2024, Volvo said today.

The Sweden-based carmaker had previously said the car would start rolling off the line in the fourth quarter of 2023.

Demand for the car remains high, according to a statement.

Putting on the brakes for further work on the vehicle’s software will help ensure a quality experience for all customers, Volvo said.

Carmakers have started to run into trouble on aligning complex development and production schedules for future vehicles decked out with sophisticated digital offerings.

Volkswagen AG has delayed key models like the Porsche Macan for at least two years because it couldn’t get the software ready on time, and EV startup Fisker Inc. cut its output forecast after struggling with software integration problems.

In a separate statement, Volvo sister brand Polestar Automotive Holding UK Plc said its Polestar 3 will also be delayed as the model shares the same new all-electric vehicle underpinnings.

Production should start during the first quarter of next year.

Polestar also reduced its forecast for this year to between 60,000 to 70,000 vehicles because of the delay as well as a slowing economic environment. It had previously aimed to make about 80,000 cars in 2023.

Polestar 4 is going ahead as planned with a launch in China in the fourth quarter and other markets in early 2024.


Honda developing three new electric vehicle platforms by 2030, says exec

                TOKYO: Honda Motor Coplans to build millions of electric vehicles (EV) by 2030 using three new dedicated platforms, with one to be jointly developed with US partner General Motors Co, a top executive at the Japanese automaker said.

Shinji Aoyama, Honda's global head of electrification, said the firm will introduce an electric mini commercial vehicle in Japan in 2024, built on a new small EV platform. This will be followed by full-size electric model in North America in 2026, on a new large platform.

Both platforms will be used for other models.

Speaking in a video call, Aoyama said a third platform, which he described as "medium size", will be shared with General Motors, starting in 2027.

The two companies in early April said they would jointly develop "affordable electric vehicles" for global markets, but released few other details. read more

"Whether they will be based on Honda's architecture or on GM's platform has not been decided," Aoyama said.

"We have not decided which plants (or) what will be produced," he added. "But we are going to share the bill of process" for manufacturing "to enable the cars to be produced at either" Honda or GM plants.

GM is building two premium electric SUVs for Honda in North America, starting in 2024, based on the dedicated EV platform that underpins GM's Cadillac Lyriq.

Aoyama said Honda has agreed to use GM's next-generation Ultium battery, though the specifications have not been finalized. But the Japanese automaker has no plans to participate in GM's Ultium battery joint venture with South Korea's LG Energy Solution, he said.

Honda has said it plans to build two million electric vehicles globally by 2030, including the mid-size models being developed with GM.

Aoyoma said Honda is targeting North American production of 750,000-800,000 electric vehicles in 2030, and about the same in China, with another 400,000-500,000 in Japan and other markets.


Moto Guzzi 3S centre officially opens in Gasket Alley

                PETALING JAYA: Didi Resources together with Piaggio Asia Pacific officially opened its Moto Guzzi 3S centre.

Together with Stronghold Cycles, who will operate the showroom and Goh Brothers Motorcycles will take care of the after sales services.

 From left: Stronghold Cycles director Mark Ng, Didi Resources & Goh Brothers Motorcycles director Goh Kian Sin, Malaysia Motorcycle & Scooter Dealers Associaton chairman Datuk Wee Hong, Asia Pacific 2-Wheeler and Piaggio Asia Pacific managing director Simone Niccolai and Didi Resources chairman Rewi Hamid Bugo. nicolai and Bugo

The Moto Guzzi facility sits within the 30,000 square-feet Gasket Alley centre, which helps provide Guzzi owners a place to 'hang out' at a restaurant, bar and custom shop as well as various other shops.

The Moto Guzzi showroom features a garage-feel that helps promote creativity along with an array of accessories and merchandises available.

For the after sales centre, four dedicated bays have been put in place on
top of special tools, computerized diagnostics, parts rooms and trained technicians by Piaggio.The place would also be able to do body and paint services.

 From left: Didi Resources chairman Rewi Hamid Bugo, Didi Resources & Goh Brothers Motorcycles director Goh Kian Sin, Stronghold Cycles director Mark Ng, Malaysia Motorcycle & Scooter Dealers Association chairman Datuk Wee Hong and Asia Pacific 2-Wheeler and Piaggio Asia Pacific managing director Simone Niccolai.

“We believe the creation of the 3S centre within the Gasket Alley is a great platform that allows our customers to experience something beyond a typical motorcycle showroom and the integration of our corporate identity has been perfectly executed to showcase the garage feel of a Moto Guzzi," said Asia Pacific 2 Wheeler and Piaggio Asia Pacific managing director Simone Niccolai.

Also, in conjunction with the opening, Didi Resources celebrated the fiftieth birthday and subsequently introduced the V7 III Anniversario with only 1,000 units avaialble worldwide.


Renault goes back to the future in an electric acceleration

                PARIS: Renault unveiled a more ambitious strategy for electric vehicles today, betting on new, affordable versions of its iconic small cars of the past to catch up with Volkswagen in the fast-growing sector.

Renault chief executive Luca de Meo said it planned to launch 10 electric cars by 2025 and that all-electric vehicles would account for up to 90% of Renault models by 2030, dropping its reliance on hybrids to hit the target under a previous plan.

Renault is betting that an electric version of its classic Renault 5 compact car, which was discontinued in the 1990s, will capture the imagination of today's drivers.

It was also set to unveil its new electric "4ever" today. Two sources close to the company said it would be a revival of the Renault 4 hatchback, which went out of production last century too.

De Meo said that new, purpose-built electric car platforms and a cluster of production sites in northern France would allow Renault to deliver electric vehicles (EVs) at a lower cost.

"Today is a historic acceleration of Renault Group's EV strategy," de Meo said in a statement.

Shrinking share

Renault's Zoe model, the biggest-selling battery electric car in its segment in Europe for years, is losing ground to models such as Volkswagen's ID.3 compact electric car.

Figures from database EV-Volumes.com showed Volkswagen's share of the EV market in Europe soared to 25% last year from 14% in 2019, overtaking the Renault, Nissan, Mitsubishi alliance, whose share shrank to 19% from 23% in 2019.

De Meo, a former Volkswagen executive who turned the German automaker's SEAT brand around, has been tasked with helping Renault turn a new page after a troubled spell.

Former boss Carlos Ghosn was ousted and arrested in Japan in 2018 on charges of financial malpractice, which he denies. Ghosn left behind a sprawling model range with low margins and Renault racked up heavy losses when global demand for cars fell.

De Meo's turnaround plan - which he has termed a "Renaulution" - is to lay off thousands of workers, reduce the range of models, and improve cooperation between alliance partners on vehicle production.

Renault said this month it would combine three of its plants in northern France into a new legal entity, Renault ElectriCity, that will produce 400,000 vehicles a year by 2025.

The company has previously said it will use purpose-designed vehicle platforms, known as CMF B-EV and CMF A, to produce small and affordable EVs.


New Amarok vastly improved, says VW

                HANNOVER: Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles has announced the world premiere of the second-generation Amarok.

The on- and off-road all-rounder has been designed and conceived in Germany and Australia; it is being produced in South Africa.

The pick-up will also go on sale in Australia and New Zealand, numerous countries of Africa, the Middle East and Europe.

It will come onto the market in the first few countries from the end of the year.

It is based on Ford's T6 platform that is the basis for the current Ranger.

But it strikes out with its own visual identity and boasts over 20 new driver assist systems, mobile online services, engines that are both efficient and high-torque, two all-wheel drive technologies and tailor-made accessories.

Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles said the latest Amarok is more powerful, more athletic and more charismatic.

“For the new generation we have significantly modified the Amarok’s archetypal design. It is now unambiguously more expressive and even more impressive”, says Albert Kirzinger, Head of Design at Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles.

Making a statement in itself is the new front section of the pick-up, which is launching in the specification variants ‘Amarok’, ‘Life’ and ‘Style’, as well as the top versions ‘PanAmericana’ (off-road styling) and ‘Aventura’ (exclusive styling).

The new Amarok has straight and very upright bonnet with Volkswagen DNA. The same applies to the bars running horizontally across the radiator grille with the integrated LED headlights, which come as standard on all versions.

On the Amarok PanAmericana, Aventura and Style the headlights used will be ‘IQ.Light – LED matrix headlights’ which interactively light up the road as bright as day and have an unmistakable light design.

Below the transverse bars, the radiator grille unit merges depending on version into a further horizontal level of the front section or – in the case of the PanAmericana and Aventura – into an X-shaped design.

The new Amarok is being launched with a four-door double cab (DoubleCab) and two-door single cab (SingleCab).

In silhouette the wheel arches, which are half-round as before, are especially striking on both versions. In contrast to many other pick-ups the upper termination of the wheel arches forms a practically straight rather than a circular line – a typical Amarok design feature.

The wings above the up to 21-inch alloy wheels have a powerful look and around the wheel arches are clad with robust plastic. The shape of the panels creates a look of the Amarok slightly flexing its muscles. The new pick-up is striking from the back too. Beneath the large VW symbol the word ‘Amarok’ is embossed across almost the entire width of the tailgate.

The outer frame of the rear section is formed by the C-shaped tail lights, which reach far into the silhouette. On the PanAmericana and Aventura versions they too use LED technology.

At 5,350mm, the new Amarok is 96mm longer than its predecessor. A wheelbase of 3,270 mm represents an increase of 173 mm. That provides more room, especially on the double cab’s second row of seats. The wheelbase has thus grown much more than the total length. And that shortens the body overhangs.

The result: sharper proportions and improved off-road capability thanks to better approach angles. The off-road capabilities of the Amarok, which will have all-wheel drive as standard in many markets, are also enhanced by much greater fording depth for driving through watery terrain. Previously it was 500mm, now it’s 800mm.

The cabin has been set up to be functional and high-quality. The spectrum of display units is made up of digital 8.0-inch instruments (‘Digital Cockpit’, fully digital and 12.0-inch in

Nsize on the Style and above) and a modern touchscreen in tablet format (10.0-inch in size; on the Style and above 12.0-inch as standard) for the infotainment system.

Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles has implemented a mix of digital functions and ergonomically configured buttons and/or push/rotary switches in the Amarok that are intuitive to use. The infotainment system’s volume and all-wheel drive system’s settings are, for instance, controlled via such hard keys. Dependent on specification, these both robust and premium-looking features are framed in aluminium.

The sound system comes from Harman Kardon – as standard in the Amarok PanAmericana and Ventura and available as an option for other specification lines.

Included as standard in the Amarok PanAmericana and Aventura is a leather-look instrument panel with elegant contrast stitching. The vehicle’s premium positioning is also matched by the new seating: the Amarok’s driver and front-seat passenger sit on ergonomically designed seats, which in the higher specifications can be electrically adjusted into multiple positions.

The rear of the DoubleCab also offers plenty of space and comfort for three adult passengers to enjoy the journey. The seats of the Style version have ArtVelours covers as standard, while in the Amarok PanAmericana and Aventura Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles uses high-quality leather.

As was the case on the predecessor model, the cargo bed between the wheel arches has enough room for a Euro pallet loaded in sideways. The single cab version can even take two pallets loaded in sideways. The load is strapped down via eye rings on the cargo bed, which can each take a load of up to 500kg.

In line with this high load capability, the maximum payload has gone up from a good tonne to now 1.16 tonnes. The cargo box can also be secured using an electrically operated roll cover. This roll cover can be opened and closed from the cargo box itself, from inside the vehicle or by remote control via the vehicle key.

An interesting fact for globetrotters is that the static roof load capacity is 350 kg – sufficient, for instance, for a four-person roof tent that will be available as an accessory.

Either ex-factory or in the range of accessories, there will also be features such as alloy wheels up to 21-inch in size, all- terrain tyres (up to 18-inch) and a diverse array of trailer mounts.

Further features available for the cargo box will include a bike holder, a multifunction carrier system, a manual version of the roll cover and a diverse range of styling bars.

There will once again be a hardtop for the cargo bed, with which the pick-up effectively transforms itself into an SUV with the load capacity of a van.

The off-road qualities, meanwhile, can be further optimised by a bull bar, underbody protection elements, all-terrain running gear, eye rings for hauling, and a snorkel attached on the outside to the left-side A-pillar for supplying the engine with fresh air when driving through water.

Five turbocharged engines are offered and are individually tailored to the world’s markets

Four turbo diesel (TDI) engines and one turbocharged petrol (TSI) engine have been developed for the new Amarok. Qualities common to all five engines are efficiency and high levels of torque.

On the African market, for instance, it is the base specification engine that is being used: a four- cylinder, 2.0-litre TDI delivering 110 kW (150 PS).

In terms of power output the next engine for many markets of the world is a 2.0-litre four-cylinder TDI delivering 125 kW (170 PS).

Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles will also be offering a four-cylinder TDI engine with 2.0 litres of cubic capacity and bi-turbocharging; it develops 150 kW (204 PS) or 154 kW (209 PS) dependent on the market.

The engine used as the new top TDI is a 3.0- litre V6. It provides power output of 177 kW (241 PS) or 184 kW (250 PS) dependent on the market.

A 222 kW (302 PS) 2.3-litre turbocharged petrol engine has also been designed specifically for the traditional petrol engine markets.

Standard across most variants is a new 10-speed automatic gearbox served via a (by wire) e-shifter. For the 150-kW version this automatic transmission will be available as an option. The new 10-speed gearbox replaces the 8-speed automatic transmission of the predecessor model. In addition, there will be 6-speed automatic transmission and manual 6- or 5-speed gearboxes for various engines.

In many markets the Amarok is being supplied with all-wheel drive (4MOTION) as standard. Depending on region and engine there will be two different 4MOTION systems here: one with selectable all-wheel drive based on the given situation, and one with permanent all-wheel drive.

The drive system technology ensures that the new Amarok too is able to master any terrain and depending on engine version is permitted to tow up to 3.5 tonnes.

Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles had sold over 830,000 units of the first-generation Amarok in Europe, Australia, New Zealand, Africa, North Asia and South and Central America.


Nio cuts prices, ends free battery swapping as sales slide

                SHANGHAI: Nio said today it would lower prices for all its models and end free battery swapping services to new buyers, as the Chinese electric vehicle maker faces mounting pressure over earnings losses and lukewarm sales.

Nio will cut prices by 30,000 yuan (RM19,405) for all models including its revamped ES6 and ES8 sports utility vehicles from June 12, according to a company statement. That equates to discounts ranging from 6% to 9% on Nio cars.

The company also would no longer provide free battery swapping services to buyers who place deposits on Monday and onwards, it said.

More than 40 auto brands operating in China including BYD and Volkswagen have joined a price war started by Tesla this year in a fight for market share as car demand slumps, with ripples spreading throughout the country's wider automotive industry.

"The adjustments had been discussed internally for quite a while and we took advice and suggestions from some users," Nio Chief Executive William Li said on the company's social media app, referring to the price cuts and the new policy on battery swapping.

"It is the best timing to publish it ... but we can't make everyone happy," he said.

Nio had been offering the swapping services for free at least four times each month to existing owners.

It is among only a handful of EV makers betting on battery swapping as a major power option for electric cars while main rival Tesla has dismissed battery swapping as "riddled with problems and not suitable for widescale use".

Nio said in February it would accelerate expansion of its batter swapping network with a plan to build 1,000 swapping stations in China this year to bring the total number of such sites to 2,300 by year-end.

The loss-making company's investments in battery swapping stations, however, have been questioned by investors for dragging on its profitability. Its net loss reached 4.7 billion yuan in the first quarter, compared to 1.8 billion yuan in the same period a year earlier.

Sales of Nio slid in April and May as the price war in China intensified and overall demand weakened. With its pure electric cars priced above 300,000 yuan (RM195,000), Nio delivered 43,854 vehicles in the first five months.

In comparison, Tesla's China sales were more than five times Nio's over the same period, while BYD sold 923,343 cars, thanks to its offerings of both pure electric and plug-in hybrids for less than 300,000 yuan.


The rich barred from using subsidised fuel from 2024, says Ahmad Maslan

                PONTIAN: Those in the T20 group will no longer be able to reap benefits meant for lower and middle income earners with the implementation of targeted fuel subsidies for RON95 petrol and diesel next year, says Datuk Seri Ahmad Maslan.

The Deputy Finance Minister said that more than RM50bil were spent on subsidising fuel such as RON95, diesel and gas that were enjoyed by all Malaysians including the T20 group.

"We do not want the rich to get more than the poor. They are already getting more as it is now with their bigger cars due to RON95 being subsidised at RM2.05 per litre.

"They have the financial capabilities to pay more for their petrol compared to those in M40 and B40 who have smaller cars and even ride motorcycles," he added.

Ahmad, who was also the Pontian MP, said this when met after attending a Hari Raya Aidilfitri gathering organised by Johor Writers Association here today.

He added that the current subsidy mechanism must be fixed immediately to ensure it reaches its target groups, which are the lower and middle income earners.

"However, bus operators, including school buses, will still get the subsidy for diesel as we do not want to see them hiking their fares, which would burden the people," he said.

Ahmad also said the government was able to save RM4bil between January and July last year when it removed electricity subsidies to companies and corporations.

"This is why we are looking at having a proper subsidy system in place as the revenue we save can go back to the people. The government can build more hospitals, clinics and schools," he added.

On Thursday, Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Minister Datuk Seri Salahuddin Ayub said the implementation of targeted fuel subsidies for RON95 petrol and diesel was expected to begin next year.

He said the National Economic Action Council (MTEN) agreed in a meeting on Wednesday that an integrated database should be prepared to ensure the effectiveness of the implementation of the initiative.

Salahuddin added the discussions involved his ministry, the Finance Ministry, Transport Ministry and Investment, Trade, and Industry Ministry.

"All agencies and ministries already have their own databases, we just need to coordinate and make sure they are accurate and effective when it (targeted subsidies for diesel) is implemented," he said.

On Monday (May 15), Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said the government has implemented a subsidy targeting programme in stages starting from January 2023 when the government would no longer provide full electricity tariff subsidies to large companies that use a large amount of electricity.

He said targeted and sustainable subsidy management was a priority in ensuring government spending is channelled to development needs that can provide higher added value to the national economy.

Anwar, who is also the Finance Minister, said the nation’s diesel subsidy system should be improved as the country’s subsidy liability jumped to RM13bil last year.


Ford showcases 'Europe's greatest driving roads' - VIDEO

                COLOGNE: It is 330km long, has more than 100 hairpin corners, and offers some of the most incredible views in Europe. The breath-taking pass overlooked by “Dracula’s castle” in Romania is one of six routes brought to life in a new video series entitled “Europe’s Greatest Driving Roads”.

Ford Performance’s engineers regularly drive the most challenging roads across the continent to test development models in the most challenging environments. The company also has decades of experience searching out the perfect roads for automotive journalists to test new vehicles. This supported a year-long research and ranking process by a team that covered a total of 15,000km in their hunt for the ultimate European road-trip.

Working with Ford and BP/Castrol, motoring journalist Steve Sutcliffe – a veteran of more than 750 car launches across 42 countries – lent his experience to a project that showcases established favourites alongside little-known gems. Over six videos, Sutcliffe gets behind the wheel to explore each road while offering historic and cultural insights for every location.

“It’s amazing some of the roads that didn’t actually make the list – but we weren’t just looking for twisty runs to please the petrol heads. We scored each route for thrills, quality of road surface, accessibility, hospitality, scenery, and food and drink,” said Sutcliffe, a former racing driver. “Enthusiasts will know of some of the roads, like the Transfagarasan Highway in Romania, but perhaps not the C462, in Spain. In some ways, it would be nice to keep these roads to ourselves – but when roads are this good they need to be shared.”

For each “Europe’s Greatest Driving Roads” video, Sutcliffe drove the Ford that best complemented each route, including the new Focus RS, Mustang 5.0 V8 GT, Mustang 2.3 EcoBoost, Focus ST, Focus ST diesel and Fiesta ST.

“Our goal was to share our knowledge of the finest driving roads across Europe with people who love cars and love driving,” said Mark Truby, vice president, Communications & Public Affairs, Ford of Europe. “It’s a true ‘bucket list’ not just for petrol heads, but anyone who wants to plan an amazing road trip.”

Here is the list of the first six roads featured:

ROMANIA, Transfagarasan Highway: Built by former Romanian dictator so his people could readily flee to the mountains should the Soviet Union invade. It even passes the castle of Vlad the Impaler’s – the real-life inspiration for Count Dracula.
Sutcliffe says: “If you are a true driving enthusiast, the Transfagarasan is genuinely a bucket list kind of place to visit.”

U.K., North Yorkshire, Blakey Ridge: Roughly following the route of an old railway line to the now quiet iron ore mines of the moors. Fortunately, it was filmed just before a huge snow storm struck.
Sutcliffe says: “The way it winds itself across the moors, throwing blind crests and fast but ever-tightening corners at you all the way along, is completely fascinating.”

SPAIN, Catolonia, C462: Leading up to a dam, the road was built for a planned power station, but the power station never appeared. Literally a road to nowhere.
Sutcliffe says: “There is just about everything a road could ever offer, and there are three distinctly different sections to it. One that’s fast and fluid, another that consists mostly of tunnels, and then a third section that’s narrower and far more twisting.”

FRANCE, the Alps, D526 & D926: One of the most gruelling stages of the 2015 Tour de France, and equally challenging in a car.
Sutcliffe says: “Of all the roads we went to I think this was my personal favourite. It was/is thoroughly epic to drive on, yes, but it’s also just stunning to look at, to be among.”

GERMANY, Black Forest Highway, B500: A little over 40 kilometres through the Black Forest, with smaller, equally challenging roads branching from it. During filming it rained constantly for four days.
Sutcliffe says: “Bikers flock to the B500 in the summer months, and who could blame them when the rewards are this rich?”

MALLORCA, MA10 “Mountain Road”: Roman origins and a remote monastery that was built at the road’s peak to be purposefully difficult to get to.
Sutcliffe says: “The road itself is an absolute peach to drive on, spiralling its way across the northern tip of the island, going through tunnels and across lakes and over rocky bridges in the process.”

“There were a few adventures along the way. Not least when the drone crew we hired in Germany pulled out at the last minute to help out on Star Wars: The Force Awakens,"  Sutcliffe added. “I’m proud of this selection – and the debate it will no doubt provoke among driving aficionados.”

READ MORE:  New drive mode in Ford Focus RS drifts into controversy


Nissan's Ariya electric SUV sales delayed due to Covid-19, chip shortage

                YOKOHAMA: Availability of Nissan Motor Co's Ariya, a new electric SUV, will be delayed due to the coronavirus pandemic and a global shortage of chips, a senior executive at the carmaker said today.

Nissan announced last year that it had planned to begin sales of the Ariya in Japan from mid-2021.

But the rollout of the limited model in Japan has been pushed to "this winter," executive vice president Asako Hoshino, told reporters.

"Sales in the United States and Europe will typically come around two months later," Hoshino said. She said she expects the model to be sold around tens of thousands in the first year of sales, with the highest demand in Europe.

"I think in Europe, (the Ariya) will of course contribute to (the overall) unit sales," Hoshino also said, when asked what the significance of the model is to the carmaker.

The Ariya is Nissan's first brand-new EV in almost a decade after the Leaf hatchback, which made its mark as the world's first mass-market electric vehicle.

The electric SUV will also be sold in China but no specific timeline has been disclosed yet.


Toyota says US tariffs on steel, aluminium will substantially raise production costs

                TOKYO: Toyota said today US tariffs on imported steel and aluminium would substantially raise costs and therefore prices of cars and trucks sold in America.

“The (US) Administration’s decision to impose substantial steel and aluminium tariffs will adversely impact automakers, the automotive supplier community and consumers,” said the automaker.

Toyota added that more than 90 percent of the steel and aluminium bought for cars built in the United States is sourced from the country.

President Donald Trump announced on Thursday he would impose hefty tariffs on imported steel and aluminium to protect US producers, risking retaliation from major trade partners like China, Europe and neighbouring Canada.

Trump said the duties of 25 percent on steel and 10 percent on aluminium would be formally announced next week although White House officials later said some details still needed to be ironed out.


Watch Resident Evil 6: The Final Chapter and stand a chance to win BMW Motorrad merchandise

                PETALING JAYA: In conjunction with the release of Resident Evil 6: The Final Chapter in cinemas nationwide, BMW Motorrad Malaysia is introducing a lucky draw contest where Malaysian movie-goers can stand a chance to win BMW Motorrad merchandises worth up to RM500.

Running from today to Feb 28 2017, the contest is open to anyone with a Resident Evil 6: The Final Chapter ticket purchased at any cinemas in Malaysia.

To enter the competition, simply follow these simple steps:

1. Watch Resident Evil 6: The Final Chapter at any cinemas nationwide. Keep the ticket.

2. Write your full name, mobile number and email address at the back of your Resident Evil 6: The Final Chapter movie ticket.

3. Bring your Resident Evil 6: The Final Chapter movie ticket to any BMW Motorrad authorised dealer showroom and drop your ticket in the contest box.

Contest winners will be notified within four weeks of the closing date – Feb 28 2017. Terms and conditions apply.

For a list of BMW Motorrad authorised dealerships, go to www.bmw-motorrad.com.my.

BMW Motorrad Malaysia will also be displaying the BMW Motorrad S 1000 XR – the exact bike ridden by Alice, played by Milla Jovovich in Resident Evil 6: The Final Chapter – at selected cinemas nationwide.

The premium motorcycle which defined the Adventure Sport segment combines dynamic performance, innovation and comfort with extreme multi terrain capability.

Showcased in collaboration with Sony Pictures, the BMW Motorrad S 1000 XR will be displayed at the following cinemas and dates:

Cinemas Display Duration

GSC Pavilion, KL Jan 20 – Feb 4

GSC Signatures, KL Jan 20 – Feb 4

GSC Gurney Plaza, Penang Jan 19 – Feb 03

GSC Sunway Carnival, Butterworth Jan 19 – Feb 03

MM Plex (former Cathay Cineplex), City Square Jan 20 – Feb 04

GSC Suria Sabah Jan 19 – Feb 03

GSC City One, Kuching Jan 19 – Feb 03


Indonesia auto sales plunge 96% in May

File pic of motorists commuting in heavy traffic in Jakarta. — AFP
JAKARTA: Car sales in Indonesia plunged 95.8% in May from a year earlier to 3,551 units, industry association data cited by the country’s largest auto distributor PT Astra International showed today.

May sales were also less than half the 7,868 units sold in April when sales were down 90.6% from a year earlier due to movement curbs imposed to contain the spread of the coronavirus.

Indonesia’s car market is dominated by Japanese brands, with Toyota and Daihatsu usually leading sales, but Mitsubishi and Suzuki led in May.


GM shakes up lithium industry with California geothermal project

                DETROIT: General Motors Co is investing in a US lithium project that could become the country's largest by 2024, making the automaker one of the first to develop its own source of a battery metal crucial for the electrification of cars and trucks.

The deal, announced today, comes as automakers around the world scramble for access to lithium and other electric vehicle (EV) metals as internal combustion engines are phased out.

Detroit-based GM said it will make a "multimillion-dollar investment" in and help develop Controlled Thermal Resources (CTR) Ltd's Hell's Kitchen geothermal brine project near California's Salton Sea, roughly 258km south-east of Los Angeles.

"This will supply a sizeable amount of our lithium needs," said Tim Grewe, GM's director of electrification strategy.

The company declined to be more specific on its investment amount, but said the project's lithium will be used to build EVs in the United States and that GM engineers and scientists will visit the site once pandemic-related travel restrictions end.

While other automakers, including China's Great Wall Motor Co and BYD, have invested in lithium producers before, none appear to have taken such an aggressive step to be part of the production process, as GM is taking with CTR.

The move could spark other automakers to follow suit with similar partnerships, especially as demand for the metal is expected to outstrip supply by 20% within four years, according to industry consultant Benchmark Mineral Intelligence.

The Hell's Kitchen project could be producing 60,000 tonnes of lithium - enough to make roughly 6 million EVs, depending on design - by mid-2024 if all goes as planned, said Rod Colwell, CTR's chief executive. The company expects to obtain federal environmental permits by the end of next year.

That output would make CTR's Hell's Kitchen the largest US producer of the white metal, with production roughly twice as much planned by a rival Nevada project from Lithium Americas Corp.

"There's a great window of opportunity here to develop more lithium in the United States," Colwell said.

The announcement comes two weeks after GM boosted its electric and autonomous vehicles budget by 75% to US$35 billion.

The geothermal process involves extracting super-hot lithium-rich brine from reservoirs 2.4km underground and using the heat to produce electricity, after which lithium is extracted from the brine.

The brine is then reinjected into the earth, making the process more sustainable than open-pit mines and brine evaporation ponds, the two most-common existing methods to produce the white metal.

Warren Buffett's Berkshire Hathaway Inc operates geothermal power plants at the Salton Sea and has in the past studied ways to produce lithium there. The Salton area is estimated to contain more than 15 million tonnes of lithium, according to the US Geological Survey.

CTR, which received California state funding last year, said its project will emit 15 times less carbon dioxide than lithium mines in Australia, the world's largest producer.

GM is also talking with other US lithium companies for supply, including those who plan to produce the metal from clay, brine and other geological sources, Grewe said.

The announcement comes the day after US president Joe Biden promoted a video on his Twitter feed featuring US Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm and White House National Climate Advisor Gina McCarthy driving in a GM-produced electric Chevy Bolt.

GM said there was no connection between the tweet and Friday's announcement.


Harley-Davidson to spread its wings to Johor in Q2 2021

                JOHOR BARU: Harley-Davidson plans to expand its motorcycle business operations to Johor Baru in the second quarter of this year.

According to a post on the Sultan of Johor Sultan Ibrahim Sultan Iskandar's Facebook page, Juan Chow Wee, who is the general manager of Harley-Davidson's exclusive distributor in Malaysia, Didi Resources Sdn Bhd, was granted an audience at Istana Flintstones, near Mersing, recently.

At the meeting, Juan presented his business plan, namely the 3S centre — Harley-Davidson sales, service and spare parts — which would be located in Jalan Stulang Laut, here, next year.

According to the social media post, the Johor Sultan said the expansion of business operations with the opening of the 3S centre showed the company's confidence in the potential of Johor's economic development.

"In the current situation, they still manage to expand here and have a strong brand following.

"Jalan Stulang Laut is a prime focus area and I hope they can also maintain the service quality and sustain business operations, which will contribute to the Johor economy," said Sultan Ibrahim in the post.


In-car odour neutraliser uses neuroscience to tackle bad smells

                PARIS: Automotive supplier Valeo has introduced Odor Free, the first neuroscience-based odour neutraliser for cars.

This system is based on the diffusion of a "neutral" fragrance, which inhibits the perception of unpleasant odours in the cabin.

Here, the idea isn't to mask bad smells by adding a perfume, but to use a neutral fragrance to modify the signal received by the brain that activates the cognitive perception of the bad smell.

As such, the bad smell remains, but the occupants of the car no longer sense it.

This neutral fragrance acts as a kind of decoy, and makes it possible to override the perception of odours such as tobacco, food or sweat that can be present inside the car, especially when there are several people sharing the space.

To achieve this, Valeo worked with researchers at the Weizmann Institute's olfactory research laboratory in Israel.

The product will be available from the second half of 2022 in the form of a medallion hanging from the rearview mirror or a diffuser fixed to the central air vent.

While private individuals will obviously be able to benefit from this technology, it is more likely to be used by professional fleets, rental cars and taxicabs. In theory, it can also be adapted for buses.

In addition to Odor Free, Valeo's teams are also working on how to use odours to influence a driver's moods and alertness.


Cadillac says small SUV at least four years away

                WASHINGTON: General Motors Co's Cadillac brand is at least four years away from introducing a small sport-utility vehicle which is a critical part of expansion plans, the brand's president said on Thursday.

"Product development life cycles being what they are, I don't have a date in mind but I would estimate it is at least four years away," Cadillac president Johan de Nysschen told reporters at the Washington Auto Show.

The small SUV will be priced less than the larger Escalade SUV, which has a starting list price of nearly US$68,000. The smaller SUV is part of Cadillac's planned US$12 billion new model offensive over the next five years that will include eight vehicles.

Cadillac also currently sells a mid-size SUV, the SRX, which is priced from just over US$38,000.

GM has laboured for years to rebuild Cadillac into a global brand, but it has stumbled as it tried to re-establish its stature in the US market, where sales declined 6.5 percent last year. Globally, Cadillac sales increased 5 percent.

Small luxury SUVs are a fast-growing segment in the United States, China and Europe. Cadillac's main rivals, including Ford Motor Co's Lincoln brand already have small luxury SUVs in the market.

 The Escalade.

De Nysschen said the strong dollar would hurt Cadillac and other US-based manufacturers as Asian and European competitors can be expected to use the currency advantage to cut prices.

De Nysschen also said the automaker's flagship CT6 sedan will be unveiled on March 31 at the New York Auto Show.

The CT6, which heralds a new naming scheme of letters and numbers that will be adopted across the Cadillac brand, is aimed at competing with models from BMW and Daimler's Mercedes-Benz.

He declined to say how much the CT6 would cost but he did say it would be the most expensive car in Cadillac's lineup.

De Nysschen said he expects Cadillac sales to be flat in 2015, partly because a raft of new products will not start hitting showrooms until late 2017.

He said Cadillac will produce diesel-powered cars and SUVs, which are popular in Europe, starting in 2019.

"If you want to play in Europe, you better have some diesels," de Nysschen said.

"Come along the next decade I want to start pushing more strongly into Europe," he said, adding that diesels would also be offered for sale in the United States.


As China plans new rules, global automakers move to store car data locally

                SHANGHAI: BMW, Daimler and Ford have set up facilities in China to store data generated by their cars locally, they told Reuters, as automakers come under growing pressure in the world's biggest car market over how they handle information from vehicles.

Cars are being fitted with an ever-increasing array of sensors and cameras to assist drivers.

But the data they generate can also be used by manufacturers to help develop new technologies, such as autonomous driving systems, raising privacy and security concerns, particularly when the information might be sent abroad.

US electric carmaker Tesla is under public scrutiny in China over its storage and handling of customer data in the country.

Last week, Reuters reported that staff at some Chinese government offices were told not to park their Tesla cars inside government compounds due to security concerns over vehicle cameras, according to two people with knowledge of the matter. read more

Tesla said on Tuesday it had set up a site in China to store data generated by all vehicles it sells in the country. read more

Other automakers said they have done the same.

Ford Motor said it established a data center in China in the first half of last year and was storing all vehicle data locally.

BMW said it operates "local data centres in China for the Chinese vehicle fleet," without saying when they opened.

Daimler said it runs "a dedicated vehicle backend in China, where vehicle data is stored."

General Motors and Toyota Motor Corp declined to discuss how they manage their data in China, while France's Renault said it does not yet have a car data centre in China.

Nissan Motor and Stellantis said they would comply with rules in China but gave no further details.

Volkswagen said compliance with data protection rules was crucial for a successful digital transformation, but "as the regulatory environment is still in rapid development, it is too early for us to comment on the specifics."

None of the carmakers said whether they would share data from China with their overseas offices.

Honda Motor Co and Hyundai Motor Co did not respond to requests for comment.

China introduced a cybersecurity law in 2017 that required all companies to store key locally-generated data onshore in China, but that was before "smart" cars made the issue a major concern for carmakers.

This month, China's cyberspace regulator posted a draft rule that said automakers must seek customer approval to collect driving data. The rule, in the public consultation phase, would also require automakers to store data locally and get regulatory permission when they want to send such data to foreign entities.

In the wake of the 2017 cybersecurity law, the new proposals shouldn't be a surprise to any automakers, said Tu Le, an analyst at China-based research firm Sino Auto Insights who was critical of manufacturers that have been slow to adapt.

"The lack of a 'data' strategy tells me that decision-making is still centralised at their home offices and that they're still struggling to evolve into 'digital' first companies," Le said.

The European Union's General Data Protection Regulation also sets strict rules on how companies handle and store data.

It is unclear what impact China's requirements will have on the way global automakers research and develop new models or technologies. It is not unusual for companies currently to share data from China to their headquarters to develop models, executives at various manufacturers said.

"Data will ultimately be the difference-maker for companies because that's what they'll use to build products and services that help differentiate themselves from their competitors," Le said.


Up for auction: Modified Toyota Supra so powerful it's insane

                TOKYO: The Toyota Supra is one of those cars that have had enthusiasts calling for a new version ever since the last one was laid to rest by the Japanese automaker back in 2002. Well, a new Supra does look to be coming our way in 2018, but in the meantime, there's a modified 1994 model going up for auction in January that's probably unlike any other Supra out there — and is very different from any new Supra model Toyota is expected to unveil next year.

An auction house by the name of BH Auction will be selling the car in question off at the 2018 Tokyo Auto Salon on Jan 12. The car is a 1994 model year that's been modified by Japanese tuning company Top Secret.

The first feature that jumps out is the gold-coloured body, but it's what's lurking under the hood that really sets this Supra apart from the rest. That's because Top Secret has replaced the original engine that would probably have been a 2.5-litre six-cylinder twin-turbo producing less than 300hp, with a 5.0-litre V-12. It's not a V-12 borrowed from a Ferrari or an Aston Martin though, but instead it's actually a genuine Toyota engine from a model called the Century, which is a Japan-only luxury sedan. In addition, the current owner has had the car up to 358kph on the Nardo test track in Italy.

Of course, Top Secret didn't just drop a V-12 into its Supra; they also added a pair of turbochargers. And if that's wasn't going to be enough power for potential buyers, they also fitted it out with a nitrous oxide system to ramp up the V-12 to deliver a staggering 930hp and 1,013Nm of torque.

As well as the power upgrades, the car also has a body kit that actually makes it pretty unrecognisable as a Supra from the front. The car is estimated to go for 8 million to 12 million yen (between RM290,000 and RM435,000).


Which warning lights on your dashboard should you worry most about?

                BERLIN: Many of a car’s assistance systems and overall functions use coloured indicator lights in the dashboard to inform the driver about potential problems.

A good rule of thumb to keep in mind is that when a red light turns on, you should stop the car as soon as possible, according to a leading safety inspection agency.

A red light warning might appear if there's too little oil, oil pressure or engine coolant, the Tuv agency says.

Motorists must immediately stop the car if they see a red exclamation point with circle around it. This symbol indicates something is wrong with the brakes, and continuing to drive could be dangerous.

For example, the linings may be worn down or there may not be enough brake fluid in the system. If this is the case, stop the car and call for help. If the issue was that the handbrake was inadvertently lifted, the symbol should disappear once it is released.

Warning lights that are orange or other colours represent issues that usually don’t have to be dealt with immediately. However, if the orange lights for anti-lock brakes or the airbags are persistently on, motorists should promptly make an appointment with a workshop and should drive very cautiously until then. After all, these lights are designed to tell drivers that their assistance and security systems are not in proper working order.