New battery design can charge an electric car in 10 minutes

                NEW YORK: Ten minutes charging time to add 320km of driving range: scientists in the US have claimed a technological breakthrough that could resolve one of the key concerns surrounding all-electric vehicles.

Writing in the journal Joule on Wednesday, researchers at The Pennsylvania State University said that such a speedy charge rate required a battery to rapidly take in 400 kilowatts of energy.

Current generation vehicles are not capable of this feat as it risks the lithium plating, the formation of metallic lithium around the anode, which would severely deteriorate battery life.

To get around this constraint, the researchers raised the temperature of their experimental battery to 60 degrees Celsius during the charge cycle, then lowered it back down as it was used.

What this does is "limit the battery's exposure to the elevated charge temperature, thus generating a very long cycle life," said senior author Chao-Yang Wang, a mechanical engineer at The Pennsylvania State University.

But scaling up the design and bringing it to market may take a decade, Rick Sachleben, said a member of the American Chemical Society.

Makers will need to make sure that rapidly raising the temperature is safe and stable, and doesn't lead to explosions given the phenomenal amount of energy that is being transferred.

"Fast charging is one of the holy grails of electric vehicles," he said. "It's one of the things that is necessary for them to compete with petroleum-fueled internal combustion engines."

Current generation Tesla vehicles require about 30 minutes for a partial charge.


Jeep reveals V8-powered Wrangler Rubicon 392 concept

                LONDON:  Jeep has introduced its new Wrangler Rubicon 392 concept that's powered by a 6.4-litre V8 engine producing 450hp and 610Nm of torque.

Managing the power will be a more robust eight-speed transmission that sends the "twist" to the third-generation Dana 44 axles with a Selec-Track full-time two-speed transfer case with a 3.73 gear ratio and electric front and rear axle lockers.

Even with the larger 37-inch mud-terrain tyres on 17-inch beadlock wheels designed to hold on to the tyres at low pressures and steel lateral angles, 0 to 100kph sprints can be completed in almost five seconds before it gets on more questionable terrain.

There, the Jeep Performance Parts 2.0-inch suspension lift-kit from Mopar as well as the new aluminium monotube Fox shock absorbers deal with the abuse.

With the lift-kit, it's new ride height now stands at 337mm which means it'll wade through up to 864mm of water and has improved approach (51.6 degrees), breakover (29.5 degrees) and departure angles (40.1 degrees).

Other than the uprated performance and suspension components, Jeep has also looked to upgrade the engine mounts, beefed up the frame and added on some protection in the form of rock rails, steel bumpers with a Warn winch, and a steel belly pan.

The concept will be coated in  Granite Crystal exterior colour that's infused with bronze accented tow hooks, hedging, springs, shocks and wheels.

It will also feature a performance-oriented front hood, custom half doors and Wrangler's Sky One-touch powertop with removable side panels to let the cabin's Red Rock leather seats with gold stitching and performance steering wheel grab all the attention.

Unfortunately, it's still just a concept with no word as to when it might be sent into series production, so for the meantime, keep those fingers and toes crossed.


CMCO extended yet again in KL, Selangor and Sabah until Dec 31

                PUTRAJAYA: It wasn't unexpected. With Covid-19 cases continuing to increase, the Government's only recourse was to extend again the conditional movement control order (CMCO) in Selangor, Kuala Lumpur and Sabah.

It will last until Dec 31. The CMCO was supposed to end on Dec 20.

For Selangor, the order applies to all districts except for Sabak Bernam, Hulu Selangor and Kuala Selangor which has returned to recovery MCO on Dec 6.

In other states, the CMCO has also been extended to Dec 31 for the following districts: Seremban and Port Dickson districts in Negri Sembilan as well as Johor Baru, Batu Pahat and Kulai districts in Johor, said Senior Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob.


Citroën dishes up C5 Aircross Hybrid

                PARIS: Citroën has announced the launch of a plug-in hybrid version of its family SUV, which is based on the C5 Aircross Hybrid Concept unveiled at the Paris Motor Show in 2018. Prices for the new vehicle will start at €39,950 (RM183,000).

The C5 Aircross Hybrid combines a PureTech 180hp internal combustion engine and an 80kW electric motor, for a total horsepower of 225hp, with an e-EAT8 automatic gearbox. The French manufacturer guarantees a range of 50km in all-electric mode as well as absolute silence on board with no bumps or vibrations.

Citroën has announced average CO2 emissions of 39 g/km for the vehicle along with fuel consumption of only 1.7 l/100 km (in WLTP cycle).

As might be expected, the interface for the new auto features a range of dedicated controls, with the notable inclusion of a driving mode selector, and touchscreen pages and two gauges devoted to the management of the hybrid. The idea is to be able to recharge the battery with a conventional domestic socket overnight or on the weekend (count between 4 and 8 hours depending on amperage) and also with a rapid charger (in less than two hours).

As to the other details, the C5 Aircross Hybrid also benefits from a modular interior, with three individual rear seats that can be reclined, slid forwards or backwards, or removed.

Although it is already available for order, the Citroën C5 Aircross Hybrid is not expected to appear in showrooms before the end of the first half of 2020.

Citroën, which aims to expand its range of low emissions vehicles, has decided that from 2020 all new brand models must be made available in an electrified version, whether it be plug-in hybrid for larger vehicles or all-electric for subcompacts and smaller. Following this policy, the automaker should have more or less electrified all of its range by 2025.


Most US car headlights inadequate, insurance group's ratings find

                WASHINGTON: Headlights on a third of US midsize car models do a poor job, and only one, the Toyota Prius v, performed well enough with an optional upgrade to earn a good rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety in results released on Wednesday.

While they currently meet US government standards, better headlights could reduce US accident deaths and improve safety, the Arlington, Virginia-based group said.

In its first ratings of vehicle headlights, the insurance group tested midsize cars to see how well they illuminate the road and whether they create excessive glare for oncoming vehicles. The group's ratings carry weight with consumers so automakers work to win high marks in its tests.

Government rules allow for significant variation in the amount of illumination that headlights provide in actual on-road driving, IIHS said.

Of 31 midsize models it tested, 11 earned an acceptable rating, nine were rated marginal and 10 were poor. The Prius v was rated good when equipped with optional LED headlights and a feature that turns off high beams when there is an oncoming car.

Vehicles getting acceptable ratings include the Audi A3, Honda Accord and Nissan Maxima. Vehicles with poor ratings include the Kia Optima, Chevrolet Malibu and Volkswagen Passat.

Many luxury vehicles have poor-rated headlights, and many cars only get higher ratings with option packages. For example, the base Prius v, which has halogen lights, gets a poor rating.

Some headlights are inadequate because they are not aimed properly at the factory. "Many headlight problems could be fixed with better aim," said IIHS engineer Matthew Brumbelow.

The US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration said in a statement Tuesday that its revised new car assessment program will give incentives for automakers to improve headlight performance.

"NHTSA is committed to promoting a higher standard of safety, including in headlighting systems," spokesman Bryan Thomas said

A spokesman for the Alliance for Automobile Manufacturers, a trade group representing Toyota, General Motors Co, Ford, Volkswagen AG and others, declined to comment.

A 2007 NHTSA report found that 49 percent of passenger traffic deaths occur at night, while 25 percent of driving occurs at night. It's not clear how much the fatality rate is related to lighting, versus driver behavior at night like speeding or intoxication.


The car from the future: Driving Mercedes' gull-winged Vision AVTR

                STUTTGART: Even the most high-tech of concept cars at motor shows look like relics from old sci-fi movies next to the Vision AVTR, a concept from Mercedes that aims to look not a generation or two into the future but rather to leap forward a whole century.

And because that's a pretty long time even for designers with a lot of visionary foresight, they got a little help from Hollywood, namely legendary director James Cameron.

The car was inspired by his blockbuster "Avatar" and like the creatures in that movie, the luxury saloon is intended to exist in harmony with nature.

With balloon-like tyres festooned with thousands of LEDs and illuminated flaps on the roof that act as solar panels, this self-driving car certainly looks futuristic. The glass doors are frameless and swing upwards like the wings of insects.

Inside there's an airy and luxurious four-seater lounge, which, apart from the Mercedes logo on the curved display module that replaces the dashboard, is not much is reminiscent of a car at all.

The car wakes up with a spectacular light show and everything shimmers in the same blue colour that dominates Pandora, the planet in "Avatar."

You can relax in a vegan imitation leather lounger while a movie is shown on the console and the car drives you to your destination.

Being environmentally friendly is the focus here with a carpet of sustainably harvested rainforest rattan while the console is made of plastic rubbish taken from the sea.

The controls are as unusual as the materials: there are no instruments or switches and everything the passengers need to know is projected onto the console.

The only real operating element is the so-called merge device, through which man and machine become one — at least in the concept of the designers.

In practice, it's a silicone-clad knob that's shaped like a jellyfish and which works as a joystick when the driver wants to take back control from the autopilot.

The driving force comes from four electric motors that together produce more than 476 horsepower and which are fed by a 110 kWh battery that doesn't contain rare, toxic or expensive materials or metals - in fact the battery is 100 per cent compostable.

The theoretical driving performance is appropriate for a luxury coupe: A top speed of 200 km/h and a range of 700 kilometres on a single charge.

Another unusual feature: The car can move sideways crab-style by around 30 degrees.

The car is far from road-ready yet, and Mercedes says it won't be launching before the year 2153. And yet the Vision AVTR offers a possible glimpse into a distant future — perhaps in a century it will look perfectly normal.


Celebrating 80 years of the Volkswagen Beetle

                PETALING JAYA: This year, the iconic Beetle celebrates its 80th birthday, and Volkswagen is marking the event with a nationwide dealer celebration and everyone is invited.

The nationwide birthday celebration will take place on the Mar 17, Saturday at all authorized Volkswagen dealers from 11am till 5pm.

Visitors at the party will be able to test drive the Beetle Sport 1.2TSI, and enjoy fun themed activities and refreshments for the whole family.

Those who take part in the test drive will also stand a chance to win a lucky draw price of a LEGO Creator Expert Volkswagen Beetle at the dealership.

The Beetle Sport is priced from RM147,888 and is available in a variety of colours that will delight owners – Bottle Green, Pure White, Tornado Red, Blue Silk, Dark Bronze and Habanero Orange.

The Beetle comes with paddle shifters, cruise control, 2-zone Climatronic air-conditioning system, 6.5” Composition media with touch screen display with App-Connect, leather trim “Vienna” seats with front seat lumbar support, bi-xenon headlamps and LED daytime running lights.

A 1.2l turbocharged TSI engine with an output of 105PS - with the 7-speed automatic transmission DSG with a maximum torque of 175Nm under the hood ensures an exhilarating ride with every drive.

Customers can enjoy a rebate of RM5,000 for a Beetle, as well as cash rebates of up to RM15,000 on other Volkswagen models.

All Volkswagen models registered from the Jan 1, 2018 also come with a 3-year (or 45,000km, whichever comes first) free maintenance package.

For more information, please visit www.volkswagen.com.my


Geely's EV brand Zeekr sells out of deliverable cars for this year

                BEIJING: Zeekr, a new premium electric vehicle (EV) brand launched this year by geely, has sold out of deliveries for this year, Chief Executive An Conghui said today.

Geely, the owner of Volvo Cars, in April launched Zeekr to target growing Chinese demand for premium EVs that has boosted sales for Tesla Inc and Chinese peer Nio Inc.

Parent Zhejiang geely Holding Group and geely Automobile jointly invested 2 billion yuan (RM1.3bil) in the Zeekr venture.

Executives said that Zeekr would use a direct sales model to manage pricing and inventory. The brand plans to open more than 100 stores this year.

Geely is making Zeekr 001 cars in China's eastern city of Ningbo.


Why autonomous freight ships may reduce number of trucks on roads

                ESSEN: While drivers and city dwellers continue to wait for the safer roads, leisurely commutes and high-tech driving experience promised by autonomous cars, shipping companies have been busy looking into how the same technology can transform their industry.

German shipping industry experts say they expect their waters to be full of autonomous freight ships within the next 15 years, according to a new study by local government industry group that is pushing for autonomous ships to be trialled in Germany's western Ruhr region.

The study said the technological development may lead to less trucks driving on roads, as goods can instead by shipped closer to their destination by small autonomous ships using canals, rather than being offloaded straight onto trucks by large freighters arriving in ports.

Last year, plans were unveiled for the first autonomous ship by two Norwegian companies, chemicals company Yara and marine technology manufacturers Kongsberg.

Their YARA Birkeland is first being trialled with humans on board, not unlike current autonomous car trials, and is set to graduate to full autonomy as early as 2020.


Mercedes-Benz Malaysia sales hit record in 2016

                KUALA LUMPUR: Mercedes-Benz Malaysia posted an all-time record sales of 11,779 units in 2016, up 9% from 10,845 units sold in the previous year. This was 873 more vehicles sold when compared to its closest rival BMW.

Mercedes-Benz Malaysia president and chief executive officer Dr Claus Weidner said Mercedes-Benz continued to be the number one premium car brand locally with a 2.4% market share and hoped to retain its pole position in 2017.

“Last year was exceptional in the history of Mercedes-Benz Malaysia. We achieved a tremendous milestone as we contributed towards the global success of Mercedes-Benz, which set a new record with double-digit growth of 11.3% and over two million vehicles sold worldwide.

“We are working hard to sustain our success here in Malaysia,” he told a media briefing on the group’s 2016 performance here today.

Mercedes-Benz Malaysia’s record-breaking performance came as demand for Mercedes-Benz vehicles in the Asia-Pacific region achieved a new high, increasing by 19.3% compared to 2015 which totalled 734,109 vehicles delivered to customers.

READ MORE:BMW sold 10,906 vehicles in Malaysia

Malaysia was listed as a contributor to this best in history growth along with other leading Asia Pacific countries, namely Japan (+3.5%), South Korea (+25%), Australia (+14.8%) and Taiwan (+17.4%).

Amid the challenging economy, Weidner said the company’s strategy of prioritising customer service had paid off and kept its sales performance at a steady pace throughout 2016.

He said Mercedes-Benz Malaysia’s production plant in Pekan, Pahang, produced 7,882 vehicles last year, recording a growth of 2.2% from the previous year.

He said the group also offered a comprehensive financing at 1.88% and has a loan portfolio of RM1.8bil currently, with four out of every 10 vehicles sold being financed and insured by its sister company, Mercedes-Benz Services Malaysia.

“Mercedes-Benz Malaysia will continue to invest in dealer network, upgrade facilities and up skill its manpower in Malaysia,” he added.

Meanwhile, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia vice president (sales and marketing) Mark Raine said the company hoped to register another stellar performance in 2017, banking on new model launches expected this year together with the 17 models launched last year.

On the impact of weak ringgit on car sales and pricing, he said Mercedes-Benz Malaysia would continue to monitor all influencing factors, but as of now, it had no plans to increase the prices of its vehicles.


Scion FR-S transitions into facelifted Toyota 86

                LOS ANGELES: The former Scion FR-S will debut as the Toyota 86 at the New York International Auto Show with interior and exterior changes, as well as suspension and powertrain upgrades. The face lifted Toyota 86 will go on sale at all Toyota dealerships this fall.

In addition to the Toyota 86 name change, two other Scion vehicles will have new designations for 2017. The Toyota Corolla iM and Toyota Yaris iA will join Toyota’s small car line-up.

For its move to Toyota, the 86 sports car adopts more aggressive styling with a larger center intake emphasizing the low, wide stance of the car. The front of the car has a new design with re-configured LED front headlamps and turn signals, and revised bumper. The rear now sports LED tail lamps and a new bumper design. The alloy wheels feature a twisted spoke design and 86 logos have been incorporated into a badge on the front fender, as well as inside the front headlamps.

The interior also features the 86 logo on the new “Grandlux” material used on the instrument panel surround. The same material adds a new, soft feel to the door trim. Drivers also will enjoy new seating material with silver stitching and a sporty steering wheel with integrated audio controls and an 86 logo on the center hub.

Enhanced control and agile performance are achieved through revised shock tuning and a spring rate change. On the manual version of the car, additional performance comes from a gear ratio change and a torque increase to 212Nm, as well as a five-horsepower increase to 205hp. Hill Start Assist Control helps prevent the car from rolling back on steep hills.

The new Toyota 86 also will be featured in Formula Drift with racers Ken Gushi and Ryan Tuerck.

“When we announced the transition of the Scion models to Toyota we hadn’t planned on changing the names of our cars, but by popular demand, for our sports car, we decided to adopt the global name of 86,” said Toyota Division Group Vice President, Bill Fay.

“Enthusiasts have a strong association with the front-engine, rear-drive heritage of the ‘hachi-roku’ and the dynamic performance it offers.”

 The C-HR Concept.

Joining the Toyota 86 on the show floor will be the Toyota C-HR Concept. The US production version of the C-HR will be shown later this year and the vehicle will go on sale in spring 2017.

The C-HR Concept is named for its compact size and high ride height. With four doors and a hatch for supreme functionality, it’s pitched as the vehicle for “yuccies,” the young urban creatives who inspired the design.

Underneath the design of the C-HR is a platform featuring Toyota’s New Global Architecture (TNGA). TNGA is an integrated approach to developing new platforms and powertrains for Toyota. It creates a lower centre of gravity, increased body rigidity, more responsive handling and improved ride comfort.

More information about the technical specifications for the C-HR will be available when the production version debuts later this year.


Grab the Tribuna Ducati package for the MotoGP Malaysia Oct 21-23

                KUALA LUMPUR: Ducati in Malaysia is elevating the MotoGP thrills with the Tribuna Ducati Package at the Sepang International Circuit from Oct 21-23.

‘Tribuna’ is Italian for grandstand.

Priced at RM499, the package offers:

> Exclusive three days admission to the Tribuna Ducati Grandstand
> Complimentary refreshments
> Tribuna Ducati Race Kit
> Exclusive access to reserved motorcycle parking
> Apparels & merchandise rebates voucher (10%-50% on selected items)

The package can be booked at any Ducati showrooms.


Rolls-Royce Spectre wraps up global testing

                LONDON: The Rolls-Royce Spectre electric car has now completed a 2.5-million-kilometre testing programme simulating more than 400 years of use.

In the most demanding development process in the marque’s 119-year history, Spectre has endured temperatures ranging from -40°C to +50°C, and in conditions spanning from Arctic snow and ice to deserts, high mountain passes and the world’s megacities.

En route, every one of Spectre’s 141,200 digital sender-receiver relations and 25,000 performance-related functions has been observed, analysed and tuned by Rolls-Royce engineers, a process representing over 50,000 collective driven hours.

Rolls-Royce said this has resulted in thousands of iterative improvements in everything from Spectre’s acoustic performance, composure under cornering and steering precision to its charge time, electric range and torque delivery.

The Spectre, with a range of up to 520km, has also undergone the marque's unique Lifestyle Analysis process. This additional testing programme is based on the marque's knowledge and understanding of the super-luxury consumer, and continuous intelligence-gathering across the luxury sector.

It enables engineers to anticipate the demands likely to be placed on a new Rolls-Royce and ensure that final engineered and fashioned experience incorporates appropriate features and responses.

Using this knowledge, engineers have considered a range of variables of particular relevance to Rolls-Royce clients.

For example, they have examined how Spectre’s drivetrain performs on specific roads in and around the world’s most exclusive enclaves, including: Sanya on Hainan Island, China; Dubai in the United Arab Emirates; Napa Valley in California; and London, in the marque’s home market.

This testing is not limited to performance under highway speeds.

Specific city centre destinations are also used to ensure that features such as four-wheel steering offer the requisite manoeuvrability benefits to access areas roads and property approaches with limited space.

Testing was also done in and around the boroughs of Mayfair and Kensington and Chelsea, London, to ensure the appropriate rear axle steering for approaching key residential streets and luxury retail locations.

Similarly, given the environments Spectre will be placed in worldwide, a large number of static testing procedures are undertaken that address key client concerns.

These include if it is possible to hold a normal telephone conversation inside the car while it is parked alongside a waiting helicopter, the strength of the car’s in-car Internet connection between specific skyscrapers, and ease of access when placing specific objects inside the car – the long garment bags used to protect formal evening suiting and gowns.

Customer deliveries of the Spectre will start in the fourth quarter of this year.


Mazda rolls out Aqua-tech Paint System to its first foreign plant

                HIROSHIMA: Mazda has announced the introduction of its unique Aqua-tech Paint System to its first overseas facility.

The technology was first introduced at Mazda's Ujina plant in Japan. Changan Mazda Automobile Co, Ltd in Jiangsu, China became the company’s second plant and first overseas facility to feature the environment-friendly paint technology.

Reducing volatile organic compounds (VOC) emissions from vehicle body paint shops is a long-standing issue for the automobile industry, which has traditionally favoured VOC-heavy oil-based paints and thinners.

Automakers moved towards water-based paints in an effort to reduce VOC emissions, but the energy-intensive evaporative drying process required for these paints resulted in increased CO2 emissions.

Mazda’s Aqua-tech Paint System overcomes this trade-off by simultaneously reducing emissions of VOC and CO2, and makes more efficient use of energy and paint materials than traditional paint systems.

The company is aiming to achieve high-quality and efficient vehicle manufacturing at its global production bases by developing technologies such as Aqua-tech in Japan before rolling them out at overseas facilities.

Mazda said the installation of the new paint system in Changan Mazda was achieved without interrupting vehicle production.

It also said the quality of the finish is as high as that of vehicles painted in Japan, even for designer colours such as Soul Red.

“As an automaker, we have an obligation to not only make high-quality cars, but also reduce our impact on the environment,” said Mazda senior managing executive officer Kiyotaka Shobuda.


KLIMS'18: Lexus UX unwrapped

                KUALA LUMPUR: Lexus Malaysia is displaying the Lexus UX or urban crossover at KLIMS'18.

It is the premium marque's first entry into the compact SUV segment.

Built on a new Global Architecture - Compact (GA-C) platform, the UX is said to have the lowest centre of gravity in the segment, which provides a dynamic and sure-footed handling akin to that of a sporty coupe.

In the cabin, new materials such as the Japanese paper Washi texture features strongly on the trim while the leather seats use a Sashiko quilted upholstery, giving it better wear resistance.

It also has the largest heads-up display in its class, a new 7-inch fully digital combination meter cluster, a 10.3-inch EMV display in the centre console and a 8-speaker Lexus Premium Audio system.
Powered by a 2.0-litre engine that produces 169hp, the UX also has a Lexus-first technology for its transmission.

Its new gearbox uses a mechanical first gearbox to provide spirited acceleration from start, before the CVT takes over for a smoother drive and impressive fuel economy.

Safety systems include Pre-Collision system, Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Departure Alert and Adaptive High-beam System.

At the Lexus stand will also be displayed the seventh-generation ES, LS+ Concept, RX300 Special Edition and LC500.

Star Media Group is the Official Media Partner of KLIMS’18.


Gazoo Racing festival Season 6 takes off this weekend

                SEPANG: Entering its sixth season, Toyota Gazoo Racing Malaysia returns in a very big way with a grid of new faces and young drivers, putting up close to RM1mil in prize monies and incentives, to firmly establish it as Malaysia’s premier motorsports event, a race for the people.

The 2023 racing calendar will see three rounds or a total of six races of the GR Vios Challenge being held with the opening round being held this weekend at Sepang International Circuit.

Toyota will also build on its strong presence in the national racing series with the continuation of the GR Vios Sprint Cup in the Malaysia Championship Series (2 rounds/4 races) and the running of the GR Vios Enduro Cup at the prestigious Sepang 1000km endurance race as the racing season finale.

UMW Toyota Motor president Datuk Ravindran K said racing has had a very profound impact on the Toyota brand globally and domestically.

“Embarking on our sixth season of the Toyota Gazoo Racing Festival, we remain committed in our mission to make an impactful contribution to Malaysian motorsports.

“Toyota also firmly believes the Malaysian motorsports eco-system can evolve to become very dynamic. By eco-system, I mean the development of future talent and the creation of a more vibrant motorsports industry,” he said.

In five seasons of racing, the Toyota Gazoo Racing Festival’s unique approach combining motor-racing with a carnival has successfully attracted more than 15 million spectators and viewers (both on-site and online via live streaming).

Season 6 will continue with full-fledged on-ground and online event.

In the GR Vios Challenge, racing will again be divided into four classes:

> Promotional Class for local celebrities;

> Super Sporting Class for elite and professional drivers;

> Sporting Class for amateur and gentlemen drivers; and

> Rookie Class for young drivers.

RM70,000 and RM50,000 which will go to the overall champion of the Super Sporting and Sporting Class champions respectively making the GR Vios Challenge the most lucrative motorsports event in the country for the last five years.

The format of a one-make series in the GR Vios Challenge remains unchanged with Rounds 2 and 3 in June and September respectively.

Gazoo Racing’s calendar will also include the GR Vios Sprint Cup, which is run independent of the Vios Challenge, and will feature two rounds scheduled for May and June in tandem with the Malaysia Championship Series (MCS).

Each round will feature 2 races with a total of more than RM200,000 in prize monies at stake.

Gazoo Racing will also continue to make its presence felt in the national series by once again participating in the prestigious Sepang 1000KM Endurance Race (S1K) in November.

The race will see the third time the GR Vios Enduro Cup being organized offering up to RM30,000 in prize monies, and will also see Toyota challenging for the overall S1K honors.
Toyota had also raced to a historic 1-2 overall victory in the nine-hour race last year and will be looking to defend this title.

Season 6 will see more than 40 drivers forming the grid in the GR Vios Challenge.

In the elite Super Sporting Class, teenage driver Hayden Haikal returns for his sixth straight season in the GR Vios Challenge and with the aim of defending the title he won last year.

He will represent Axle Sports in a two-car entry alongside Naquib Azlan who was also last year’s Sporting Class champion.

Meanwhile, in pursuit of his fourth Class title will be Tengku Djan Ley Tengku Mahaleel who will be leading Prima Pearl TD Racing’s two-car entry alongside Mitchell Cheah.

Big names to look out for include the Laser Motor Racing pair of Eddie Lew and Putera Adam, Royal 47 Racing’s Brendan Paul Anthony, Telagamas Toyota’s Freddie Ang, Toyotsu Racing’s William Ho, and S&D Tama Motorsports’ Goh Chok Tong.

As usual, the Sporting Class for amateurs will field the most number of competitors with no less than 18 contenders signed up.

The grid will also feature a number of young drivers who will include Nabil Azlan (Season 5 Rookie Class champion) driving for Axle Sports, 23 Motors’ Abdul Miqail, Crestmax Motorsports’s Bradley Benedict Anthony, Distinctive Model’s Aaron Haikal, Super Evergreen Motorsport’s Muhammad Amirul Haikal, and Todak Wheelstar Motorsport’s Muhammad Alif Shawqi.

The Promotional Class for local celebrities will see half the grid made up of new faces.

They will include professional tenpin bowler and Ratu Ten Pin drama actress Syaidatul Afifah; actor, television host and Hot FM radio presenter Imran Aqil; actor and host Ezzrin Loy; actor, host and television personality Hefsy Sahad; and actress and model Reen Rahim.

Rejoining the grid will be former Promotional Class overall champion and actor Shukri Yahaya; actor Zizan Razak; actress and television personality Ahirine Ahirudin; and television personality Ain Edruce.

Season 6 will also see UMWT continuing with the Gazoo Racing Young Talent Development Program which was first started in 2020.

The programme, designed to promote young drivers up the motorsports ladder, has so far successfully produced 12 very talented young racers between the ages of 14 and 20 making their transition from the sport of karting and simulator racing to saloon car racing.

Another six graduates who will be joining this season’s Rookie Class include 16-year-old and 2019 Rotax Max Malaysia junior champion Ariff Azmi; 16-year-old racing driver and simulator racer Iman Danish; 17-year-old karter Azriel Azhar; 18-year-old simulator racer Nazmir Azlan; and 19-year-old simulator racers and racing enthusiasts Yazid Razak and Elson Lew.

Nazmir is the third sibling to join the GR Vios Challenge and Rookie Class, following in the footsteps of his two elder brothers Naquib and Nabil who have both been crowned the overall champion of the Rookie Class.

Naquib went on to also clinch the overall championship in the Sporting Class for amateur drivers in 2022 and will compete in the Super Sporting Class for professionals this season.

Joining the Rookie Class with the most racing experience will certainly be Iman who has several podium and top 10 finishes to his credit which includes coming in third in the Super 1600 Class, second in the Tiner Production Class, and fourth in the Saga Cup in the MSF Racing Series.

Members of the public and race enthusiasts are invited to Round 1 of the Toyota Gazoo Racing Festival and GR Vios Challenge this weekend (Feb 18-19) at the Sepang International Circuit.

Catch all the action and stage performances by local celebrities on ground or streamed live on Toyota’s website at www.toyota.com.my and on the Toyota Malaysia and Toyota Gazoo Racing Malaysia Facebook pages.


Porsche's Macan Turbo gets an update

                STUTTGART: Despite Porsche launching the Macan S in December with the company's "sport" designation, the new Macan Turbo's updated engine has power that outshines the athletic compact SUV by 80hp.

Though the 2.9-litre twin-turbo V6 engine of this Turbo generation may be smaller than the previous iteration's 3.6-litre V6, it puts out nearly 40hp more power. This upgrade allows the car to reach a top speed of 270kph — for comparision, the Macan S goes up to 254kph — and accelerate from 0 to 100kph (with the Sport Chrono Package) in 4.3 seconds.

The chassis has been optimised for a more dynamic experience, and Porsche's highly sensitive Surface Coated Brakes come standard as do new 20-inch Macan Turbo wheels.

The exterior has been restyled with a unique front apron exclusive to the new Turbo variant and a double-winger fixed roof spoiler. Thanks to the three large air intakes in the front and the sport exhaust system with silver twin tailpipes in the back, any onlooker will be able to identify this particular Macan as the segment-leading Turbo.

On the inside, the 2020 Macan Turbo is equipped with 18-way sports seats finished in leather and a Bose Surround Sound System. The dashboard is outfitted with a 10.9-inch full HD touchscreen display which supports voice-control and online navigation with live traffic information.

To top things off, owners can opt for a wireless charging smartphone cradle, a heated windscreen, and an ioniser to improve interior air quality.

The new Macan Turbo is available to order now, starting at US$83,600 (RM353,000).


Takata doubling US recall for faulty air bags to 34 million vehicles

                WASHINGTON/DETROIT: Japanese air bag maker Takata Corp is doubling a recall of potentially deadly air bags to nearly 34 million vehicles, creating the largest automotive recall in American history, US safety regulators said on Tuesday.

The recall involves passenger and driver-side air bag inflators in vehicles made by 11 automakers, the US Department of Transportation, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and Takata said. It expands on the 16.6 million vehicles called back for repairs for the same issue in previous regional and national recalls, and boosts the number of vehicles affected globally since 2008 to more than 53 million.

Regulators on Tuesday linked six deaths worldwide to defective Takata air bags which exploded with too much force and sent shrapnel into the vehicles.

Takata chief executive Shigehisa Takada said in a statement: "We are pleased to have reached this agreement with NHTSA, which represents a clear path forward." The company declined to say whether markets outside the United States would be affected.

It was only under pressure from US regulators that Takata agreed to the expanded recall. It had previously resisted expanding the recalls, saying the defect cited by automakers was not "officially recognized." Japan's Toyota Motor Corp, Nissan Motor Co Ltd  and Honda Motor Co Ltd had expanded their Takata recalls over the past week.

The automakers have said they decided to proceed with their recalls after finding some Takata air bag inflators were not sealed properly, allowing moisture to seep in to the propellant casing. Moisture damages the propellant and can lead to an inflator exploding with too much force, shooting shrapnel inside the vehicle.

The six deaths linked to the defective air bags have all occurred in cars made by Honda, which has borne the brunt of the Takata recalls to date. Honda gave a disappointing profit forecast last month due to higher costs related to quality fixes.

Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx said NHTSA also issued a consent order to Takata, requiring the supplier to cooperate in the safety agency's ongoing probe as well as any oversight.

NHTSA also said it will "organise and prioritize the replacement of defective Takata inflators" under its legal authority. This is the first time the safety agency has used this power since 2000, when Congress granted it under the TREAD Act.

"We will not stop our work until every air bag is replaced," Foxx said.

Foxx and NHTSA's new administrator, Mark Rosekind, have been aggressive in tackling auto safety issues. On Monday, NHTSA escalated a running regulatory battle with Fiat Chrysler Automobiles, saying it could impose "multiple penalties" on the automaker and order a public hearing to examine FCA's handling of 20 recalls affecting more than 10 million vehicles.

NHTSA had slapped Takata in February with a US$14,000 per-day fine for failing to fully cooperate with a probe, but Rosekind said that was suspended for now.

Takata's recall will cost the supplier and its automaker customers an estimated US$4 billion to US$5 billion, said Scott Upham, president of Valient Market Research, which tracks the air bag industry.

Takata has said it expects to return to profit this financial year, but its chief financial officer told analysts last week it would not set aside more cash to pay for the expanding recalls.


Goodyear Eagle-360 concept tyre is a TIME-honoured invention

                KUALA LUMPUR: The Goodyear Tire Rubber Company's unique Eagle-360 concept tyre has been named one of TIME magazine’s Best Inventions of the Year (2016).

Each year, TIME magazine’s technology editors list the year’s best inventions that are making the world better, smarter and in some cases — a little more fun.

This year’s list had 25 inventions, which in addition to Goodyear’s Eagle-360 concept, included a virtual reality headset, shoes that lace themselves, a solar roof collaboration between Tesla and SolarCity, and the Chevy Bolt electric vehicle.

“By steadily reducing the driver interaction and intervention in self-driving vehicles, tyres will play an even more important role as the primary link to the road,” said Goodyear chief technical officer Joe Zekoski.

“Goodyear’s concept tyres play a dual role in that future both as creative platforms to push the boundaries of conventional thinking and testbeds for next-generation technologies. Although the Eagle-360 is a future concept, it represents an essential aspect of Goodyear’s innovation strategy and our vision for smart and safe mobility," he added.

The spherical-shaped concept tyre is touted by the company to be ideal for providing self-driving cars the ultimate amount of maneuverability, connectivity and biomimicry to increase safety.


Locally-assembled BMW X5 xDrive45e M Sport PHEV rolls in at RM441K

                CYBERJAYA: BMW Malaysia has introduced the locally assembled X5 xDrive45e M Sport (G05) plugin hybrid electric Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV).

The official launch ceremony can be viewed via the company's official Facbook page or http://youtube.com/user/bmwMYS/live channel.

The X5 Drive45e M Sport will be made available for viewing at all authorised dealerships nationwide from June 20 and will come priced without insurance at RM440,745 and comes with a five-year unlimited mileage warranty.

The warranty is coupled with the company's free scheduled service programme, a two-year run-flat tyre warranty programme, free roadside assistance with accident hotline and an eight-year or 160,000km (whichever comes first) battery warranty as standard.

Opening the dual-section powered tailgate gives access tot he 500-litre boot that's expandable to 1,720 litres when the rear backrests are folded down.

Also, new owners will be treated to the brand's Premium Ownership experience which provides a BMW White Card membership card before giving access to the BMW Group Loyalty+ Mobile App and online service.

Four colour options are available for choices which include Phytonic Blue, Black Sapphire, Mineral White and Artic Grey.

The colours are paired with black "Vernasca" perforated leather and high-gloss brown "Fineline Stripe" polished wood trim for the interior.

Commonly known as "The Boss", this X5 rolls in with a few updates to its features that include slimmer-looking adaptive LED headlights and front LED fog lights - both flanking the front signature kidney grilles.

As an added option, the exterior of this G05 can be upgraded with M Performance Genuine Parts and Accessories that include the front air inlet, exterior mirror caps, front and rear winglets, a rear carbon fibre diffuser, side decals and side skirt films in Frozen Black as well as matte jet-black Star-Spoke wheels.

For power, the front hood hides the 3.0-litre (2,998cc) inline-six turbocharged B58 engine producing 335hp from 5,000 to 6,500rpm and 500Nm of torque from 1,600 to 4,500rpm.

Together with the 113hp / 265Nm electric motor that slots itself between the engine and the eight-speed Steptronic transmission by ZF, the combined system's output (engine and electric motor) means it punches out 394hp at 5,500rpm and 600Nm of torque from 1,500 to 5,200rpm.

The "twist" gets distributed by the xDrive all-wheel-drive system that gets the four 20-inch "style 740 M" bi-colour Star Spoke M light-weight alloy wheels spinning while wearing 275/45 Bridgestone Alenza run-flats as standard.

This translates to a century sprint (0-100kph) time of just 5.6 seconds before reaching a top speed of 235kph where occupants can enjoy the dual-axle air suspension system in relative comfort while the blue M Sport brake callipers stand ready to bring it hurriedly to a complete stop.

On a full charge, the Munich-based carmaker said that the X5 with just its electric motor is able to travel up to 77km and achieve a top speed of 135kph before the petrol engine kicks in.

Inside, the cockpit features a power-adjustable M leather steering, front powered Sports seats with driver memory function, quad-zone automatic climate controls, an instrument panel wrapped in synthetic Sensatec leather, wireless charging pad located in the centre console just forward of the cup holders and a 12.3-inch Live Cockpit Professional instrument cluster for the driver.

A 464-watt 16-speaker Harman Kardon Surround Sound system is connected to the BMW iDrive 7.0 infotainment system that comes with Gesture Control and Intelligent Personal Assistant as well as two 10.2-inch Rear Seat Entertainment Professional touchscreen monitors.

When out on the road, owners will be aided by the new BMW Personal CoPilot advance driver assist systems which include Lane Departure Warning and Lane Changing Warning, Frontal Collision Warning with braking intervention, Rear Crossing Traffic Warning, Rear Collision Prevention and speed limit info.

Additionally, the G05 is also equipped with Parking Assistant Plus with Surround View Camera along with Reversing Assistant that keeps a record of the last 50m travelled at speeds up to 35kph which assists drivers to reverse out from a parking spot or tight spaces by taking over the steering system.

Owners will be given a BMW Display Key that can provide information with regards to charge status and range among others as well as access to climate controls to help prime the cabin for a comfortable entry before starting on a journey.

For greater convenience, Comfort Access 2.0 keyless entry system has been added which uses Near Field Communication (NFC) available on select Android smartphones to unlock the X5 when the owner approaches from approximately one metre away. Likewise, it can also automatically lock when the owner moves more than two metres away from the vehicle.

“The introduction of the New BMW X5 xDrive 45e M Sport not only expands our portfolio of locally-assembled vehicles here in Malaysia but also strengthens our strategy for electrified mobility for the country," said BMW Group Malaysia managing director Harald Hoelzl.

He added that over 3,000 units of the X5 were delivered last year (2019) which accounted for more than 25% of sales for the BMW X-range and is certain that this new X5 xDrive45e M Sport will continue to uphold the legacy of its iconic predecessors as the most efficient and powerful premium SAV on the road.


Porsche drops the top on its hot new 911 Convertible

                STUTTGART: The allure of a Porsche 911 is hard to resist and well-heeled buyers will soon be snapping up the hot new revamped version which rolls into showrooms in early 2019.

The lightly retouched exterior gives the 911 drop-head a fresh look and its arrival comes only weeks after the latest generation tin-top Coupe version was revealed.

First off the blocks is the Carrera S variant with a powerful 450-hp engine which enables the supercar to storm to beyond 300kph before it runs out of urge.

The rear-wheel Porsche 911 carries a price tag of €134,405 (RM637,000), with the Carrera 4S, four-wheel drive version available at a premium.

The key change for 2019 is the rejigged folding fabric hood which Porsche has fitted with improved hydraulics. The lid pops up in just 12 seconds to satisfy fresh-air fans.

The S cabriolet is only the start, says Porsche and the German maker plans to offer the drop-head as an entry-level, 385-hp version soon as well as a turbocharged model. A Targa with a removable roof section is also in the pipeline.


New battery-making process means more electric cars, sooner

                BERLIN: Scientists in Germany have come up with a faster way to make the electrodes used in batteries for electric cars, a discovery that will likely mean more zero-emission vehicles will able to make it to the roads more quickly.

The new electrode-coating process enables record production speeds and also reduces waste, researchers at the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) in Karlsruhe say.

This should help bring down the coat of batteries and boost electromobility by making electric cars cheaper to produce.

On a typical production line, electrodes using the new process can be produced for three times as many battery cells. The electrodes in lithium-ion batteries are coated with metal and they act as current collectors, conducting the electric current in and out of the cell.

At present coating the electrodes means applying electrode material in the form of a thin paste to a copper or aluminium foil in a rectangular pattern.

The drawback is that the coating process has to be interrupted and restarted repeatedly and producing the sharp edges without smearing the material is hard to achieve at high production speeds.

Using a special nozzle developed at KIT, the electrode coating is carried out much faster and the material dries more quickly.

"Precision of electrode coating is an essential factor for efficiency and costs of battery cell production," said Professor Wilhelm Schabel from the Institute of Thermal Process Engineering – Thin Film Technology (TVT-TFT), who is responsible for research into this topic at KIT.

“Even smallest production errors make battery cells unusable. Due to the high reject rate and the low throughput, lithium-ion batteries today are more expensive than actually necessary," said Schabel.


Mercedes-Benz Malaysia's Advanced Modern Apprenticeship 2023: Now open for applications

                KUALA LUMPUR: Mercedes-Benz Malaysia Training Academy's Advanced Modern Apprenticeship programme for 2023 is now accepting applications until July 31, 2023..

The comprehensive three-year course, fully funded through a scholarship, encompasses skills such as presentation, critical analysis, decision-making, and systematic thinking as an automotive mechatronic technician in systems and high-voltage technology, and ensures guaranteed employment opportunities upon completion.

Edmin Naidoo, vice president of customer services, Mercedes-Benz Cars, Malaysia and SEA II said, “In light of the ever-evolving technology within our Mercedes-Benz vehicles, the preparation for battery electric vehicle (BEV) transformation and integration into our dealer network, further encourages us to develop and nurture our skilled workforce to meet the increasing demand. By utilising our exclusive educational platform, which includes training facilities and rigorous guidelines, we can nurture certified Mercedes-Benz professionals who will contribute to our network and ensure the delivery of exceptional customer experiences.”

Since 1984, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia's Training Academy has produced over 900 apprentices who now serve in various positions across different specialisations within the brand's authorised dealer network.

The programme has been receiving an average of 500 applicants annually since 2017.

The three-year apprenticeship course encompasses a curriculum aligned with globally approved syllabuses and training guidelines established by Mercedes-Benz Global Training, incorporating Mercedes-Benz Competence elements to ensure continuous development of trainees with the brand.

The programme includes International Qualifications up to Level 3, acknowledged by the Department of Skills Development under the Ministry of Human Resources.

As part of Mercedes-Benz's global strategy and focus on electric vehicles, the brand has introduced a new profile for the electric vehicle specialists, known as Qualified High-Voltage Technician (QHV) as an additional module.

Upon completion of the Advanced Modern Apprenticeship programme, participants will be certificated in SKM Level 3, C&G VRQ Level 3, Qualified Maintenance Technician (QMT), Qualified System Technician (QST) / Qualified Bodywork Technician (QBT) / Qualified High-Voltage Technician (QHV), depending on the specialisation chosen.

Employment is guaranteed upon programme completion, with a minimum salary in the first year and incremental growth opportunities thereafter.

The entire course will be conducted at the Mercedes-Benz Malaysia Training Academy in Bandar Kinrara, Puchong.

Interested individuals with a minimum of 3 credits in SPM or equivalent qualifications, including a pass in English, can apply for the program until July 31, 2023.

They can also visit mb4.me/AMA or email mbm_apprentice@mercedes-benz.com for further information.


Techrules hires Giugiaro for supercar

                BEIJING: Techrules, an automotive research and development company based in Beijing, has hired Italian designers Giorgetto and Fabrizio Giugiaro, and engineering and production specialist L.M. Gianetti, for its supercar project, reports Automotive News Europe.

Techrules had premiered its revolutionary turbine-recharging electric vehicle (TREV) technology at the 86th Geneva International Motor Show earlier this year.

The TREV technology will be used for China’s first supercar, which is due to be launched in the next three years.

Techrules is also looking at possible sites in Europe to produce the AT96 and GT96 variants of its supercar.

TREV is a range extender system that uses a micro-turbine to generate electricity that charges a battery pack.

A development prototype has begun tests in February 2016 at the Silverstone race circuit in the United Kingdom.

The supercar can produce peak power of 1,030bhp and initial projections indicate blistering performance (0 - 100km/h in 2.5 seconds; 350 km/h restricted top speed) and a long travel range (over 2,000 km).

Under plug-in operation, it achieves fuel consumption of just 0.18 litre per 100km.


Mazda 30th anniversary edition MX-5 in racing orange

                LONDON: After 30 years and more than 1 million units sold, the MX-5 is the world’s best-selling two-seater roadster.

Launched as a tribute to these MX-5 fans, a 30th Anniversary Edition is exclusively offered in the newly developed Racing Orange body paint.

The MX-5 30th Anniversary Edition features forged aluminium Rays wheels developed exclusively for the MX-5 in cooperation with Rays Co Ltd. and a 30th anniversary badge displaying the model’s serial number.

Other unique features include orange brake callipers, and for the first time in the UK, Brembo front brakes.

Inside, the bespoke feel continues with orange accents on the seats, door trim, dashboard, steering wheel, air vents and gear lever, while Recaro seats and Alcantara trim on the door trim and instrument panel add a sense of exclusivity.

The 30th Anniversary Edition also features Apple Carplay and Android Auto as standard.

Just 3,000 cars will be produced globally, and fittingly for one of the world’s biggest MX-5 markets, the UK will receive 600 units – 400 convertibles and 200 RFs (Retractable Fastback).

As with all 2.0-litre 2019 Mazda MX-5 models, the 30th Anniversary features the new 184ps version of the Skyactiv-G engine, while across both body types this range-topping special edition comes with a six-speed manual gearbox, Bilstein dampers, strut-brace and limited slip differential.


US regulator clears Tesla after death probe

                WASHINGTON: US authorities have found no evidence of any defects in Tesla electric cars after investigating the death of a man whose Model S collided with a truck while he was using its Autopilot system, the first fatality involving semi-autonomous driving software.

The US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration said on Thursday it will not seek a vehicle recall after conducting a six-month investigation.

The crash drew enormous attention and raised questions about the safety of systems that can perform driving tasks for long stretches with little or no human intervention.

The regulator's decision is seen as a boost to automakers racing to get vehicles that are nearly self-driving or fully autonomous on US roads in the next few years.

US Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx told reporters that drivers have a duty to take their obligations seriously and automakers must explain the limits of semi-autonomous systems.

"The (auto) industry is going to have to be clear about what the technology does and what it is does not do, and communicate it clearly," Foxx said.

Joshua Brown, a 40-year-old former Navy SEAL from Ohio, was using the technology in his Model S before he collided with a truck near Williston, Florida, last May and was killed.

NHTSA said in a report that Brown did not apply the brakes and his last action was to set the cruise control at 119kph, less than two minutes before the crash.

The agency said Brown "should have been able to take some action before the crash, like braking, steering or attempting to avoid the vehicle. He took none of those actions."

Tesla Motors Inc said "the safety of our customers comes first, and we appreciate the thoroughness of NHTSA’s report and its conclusion."

Jack Landskroner, a lawyer for Brown's family, said they plan to evaluate all of the information from government agencies investigating the crash "before making any decisions or taking any position on these matters."

Tesla in September unveiled improvements to Autopilot, adding new limits on hands-off driving and other features that its chief executive officer said likely would have prevented a fatality.

NHTSA said in the report that drivers could be confused about whether the system or the driver is in control of the vehicle at certain times. The agency also said its decision to close the investigation was not contingent on the software improvements announced in September.

NHTSA also said an analysis of Tesla data suggested the vehicle crash rate fell by 40% after the installation of its Autosteer lane-keeping function.

The investigation was closely watched by automakers who are introducing semi-autonomous features and pursuing fully self-driving vehicles. Brown's death raised questions about whether regulators have the authority to oversee rapidly developing vehicle technologies.

In October, CEO Elon Musk said all new Tesla models will come with an US$8,000 (RM36,000)hardware package to enable them to be fully self-driving. By the end of 2017 a Tesla should be able to drive in full autonomous mode from Los Angeles to New York "without the need for a single touch" on the wheel, Musk said.

Rival automakers have said they expect to be able to field autonomous driving capability by around 2020.

The US National Transportation Safety Board, which is also probing the crash, said there have been no reported incidents in the United States involving a Tesla in autopilot mode that resulted in fatalities or injuries since a Pennsylvania crash in July injured two people.

Tesla has introduced restrictions on Autopilot after concerns arose that the system lulled users into a false sense of security through its "hands-off" driving capability. Drivers are temporarily prevented from using the system if they do not respond to audible warnings to take back control of the car.


Porsche and Michelin showcase tyres that contain 53% sustainable materials

                LONDON: The new, fully-electric Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 ePerformance is showcasing its potential at the June 23-26 Goodwood Festival of Speed on Michelin tyres that contain 53% sustainable materials.

At last August’s Le Mans 24 Hours, Michelin revealed the new tyre containing 46% sustainable materials it had developed for GreenGT’s fuel-cell electric racing prototype.

Today, it has taken the proportion of biosourced and recycled raw materials to 53% for the tyres it has supplied to Porsche, with no detriment to the performance and safety levels that have long been hallmarks of its competition tyres.

The sustainable raw materials that go into these tyres range from natural rubber and carbon black recycled from end-of-life tyres, to orange and lemon peel, pine-tree resin, sunflower oil and scrap steel.

In keeping with its Michelin In Motion policy, Michelin plans to make all its tyres exclusively from sustainable materials by 2050.

Looking beyond Porsche’s record bid at Goodwood, the German make’s upcoming all-electric motorsport programme will provide Michelin with a chance to evaluate its sustainable solutions in the extreme conditions associated with topflight racing.

The French firm is effectively determined to accelerate the development of its technologies and their carry-over to production electric-vehicle tyres, while the energy transition provides it with a valuable opportunity for growth, along with a means to showcase its expertise and innovation.


Bosnian Tesla fan impatient for Cybertruck release builds a lookalike

The Cybertruck replica is based on a Ford Raptor F-150. — Reuters
MOSTAR (Bosnia): A Bosnian fan of both Ford trucks and Elon Musk’s Tesla could not just sit on his hands waiting for the electric carmaker to release its Cybertruck, expected from late 2021.

Instead he came up with his own version of the futuristic vehicle.

It took eight months for IT specialists and engineers at Igor Krezic’s Stark Solutions company to disassemble a rugged Ford Raptor F-150 into its smallest parts and then transform it into a petrol-powered vehicle that resembles a Cybertruck.

The first drive through the streets of the southern town of Mostar drew a lot of attention, Mario Coric, the company manager, told Reuters.

“Everybody was watching and half of them thought we made a tank, because people don’t know what the Cybertruck is. One girl even stopped and asked if this is the place where they are producing Tesla Cybertruck,” Coric said on Friday.

Krezic declined to speak to Reuters.

Though it may not look identical to Cybertruck’s functional prototype the pickup captures its spirit.

“The owner wanted us to combine two opposite sides — Ford and Cyber — because he is a fan of both Tesla and Ford, so we merged two souls into one,” he said.

“This one uses gasoline and Tesla uses electricity. We tried to copy as much as possible but our car is not the same size as the Cybertruck,” Coric added.

There was no immediate comment from Tesla and Ford.

Coric said Stark Solutions was now trying to register the pickup to be able to drive it on roads but they were encountering problems because sharp vehicle edges like those seen on the Cybertruck are banned in Bosnia.

Tesla plans to build its US$1.1 billion Cybertruck factory near Austin, Texas, ending an intense competition with neighbouring Oklahoma, the carmaker’s chief executive Musk announced in July.

With a starting price of US$39,000, the Cybertruck resembles an armoured vehicle and takes aim at the heart of Detroit automakers’ profitable truck business.


Increased new-car demand during pandemic has US industry optimistic about 2021

                DETROIT: Increased demand for new vehicles during the Covid-19 pandemic helped General Motors Co and other automakers report strong fourth-quarter US sales on Tuesday, and executives voiced optimism the rebound from low sales during the April-May production shutdown will continue in 2021.

GM reported a 4.8% increase in US sales in the fourth quarter, while Toyota Motor Corp and Volkswagen AG saw their sales rise 9.4% and 10.8%, respectively.

Industry officials expect the US auto sector to finish the year with 2020 sales in the range of 14.5 million to 14.6 million, which would be down from 17.1 million in 2019. But with vaccines being rolled out, low interest rates and strong consumer savings, officials expect demand this year to rebound.

Toyota officials said they expect 2021 US new-vehicle sales of 16 million, while VW forecast 15.6 million.

“We’re ready to rock 2021,” David Christ, Toyota Motor North America group vice president and general manager of the Toyota division, told reporters on a conference call, describing the US consumer as resilient.

Volkswagen of America chief executive Scott Keogh agreed on 2021 expectations in a separate call. “I’m as optimistic as one can be.”

GM chief economist Elaine Buckberg said the US automaker sees an “inflection point” for the US economy in the spring. The Detroit automaker’s average transaction price per new vehicle set a full-year record of US$39,229 in 2020.

“Widening vaccination rates and warmer weather should enable consumers and businesses to return to a more normal range of activities, lifting the job market, consumer sentiment and auto demand,” she said in a statement.

Consumers in the financial position to buy a new car during the coronavirus pandemic aren’t holding back on upsizing their purchases in favour of bigger vehicles with more amenities, according to industry consultant Edmunds.

The average down payment for a new vehicle climbed to US$4,734 in the fourth quarter, from US$4,329 a year ago, Edmunds said.


New C8 Corvette to be 1,000hp, mid-engined hybrid, says report

2019 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 Indianapolis 500 pace car.
DETROIT: It's already known that the next Corvette will break from tradition and morph into a mid-engined model, but it also appears there's also going to be an all-wheel drive hybrid boasting a reputed 1,000hp.

That's according to America's Car and Driver website, which appears to have a wealth of inside knowledge about the next-generation Chevrolet Corvette and has been revealing some nuggets of information.

And the really good news is despite that incredible horsepower figure, Chevrolet is determined that the Corvette won't stray from its usual realm of affordability.

The body panels will remain largely made from fibreglass, but they'll be set on a spaceframe that will be mostly lightweight aluminium.

 Corvette ZR1.

The first variant to be launched will be the coupe, which will feature an updated version of the current car's 6.2-litre LT1 V8 under the bonnet. Although it will be slightly heavier than the current unit, the output should rise to around 500hp, so an entry level C8 should be quicker than a current entry level C7.

Following on from there will be a 5.5-litre DOHC V8 offering around 600hp, but somewhere down the line there will eventually be a twin-turbo take on the 5.5-litre V8 with an astonishing 800hp.

That would push the Corvette seriously close to Dodge Challenger Demon territory, but Chevy is then really going to push the boundaries with the aforementioned hybrid.

Car and Driver insists that after a decent amount of time has passed and people have really begun to appreciate the 'Vette in its new format, a 200hp electric motor will be added to that 5.5-litre V8. Sitting at the front where the engine used to be located and driving the front wheels, the electric motor will transform the Corvette into a mid-engined, all-wheel drive hybrid monster with somewhere close to 1,000hp at its disposal.

What's perhaps just as astounding is the fact this incredible hypercar will be sold alongside the likes of the Malibu, Impala and Trax at regular Chevy dealerships, and could have the same warranty as any traditional Chevy.

It's hard to say what kind of price will be asked for this beast of Corvette, but it's probably safe to assume it will be considerably more affordable than a European model with anything close to the same kind of power and that demand will be off-the-scale.


Man arrested after video surfaces of boys doing 'Superman' stunt on moving car

                JOHOR BARU: Police have detained a 49-year-old man after a video clip was shared on social media showing two small boys doing the “Superman” stunt on the back of a fast-moving car in Pasir Gudang.

Seri Alam OCPD Supt Ismail Dollah said the suspect was arrested on Sunday evening at a house in Taman Nusa Damai in Pasir Gudang following tip-offs from the public.

“We believe the suspect was the vehicle’s driver when the two boys were on the car’s boot.

“We also seized the Toyota Vios car used in their stunt,” he said in a statement here today.

He added that three boys, aged between 10 and 12, were involved in the stunt, which went viral on social media.

“One of the child is the suspect’s son,” he said, adding that the police would request to remand the suspect who would be investigated under Section 366 of the Penal Code for endangering the lives of others.

The video of two boys doing the "Superman" stunt on the back of a moving car went viral recently, sparking concern among those who viewed it.

In the clip, two boys are seen on the boot holding onto the fast-moving car as it speeds down a busy intersection believed to be in Taman Scientex in Pasir Gudang.


Mobility study cites roadblocks for US electric vehicles, sustainable aviation

                LOS ANGELES: Automakers may not be able to build as many electric vehicles as they would like — and consumer demand for those EVs may not materialise as quickly as anticipated — if government and industry do not address and resolve a convergence of issues, a new study released today said.

Among those roadblocks, a looming shortage of battery raw materials could put government mandates “in conflict with manufacturing reality” — one of the macro trends charted in the 2023 Moving World Report, published by investment firm UP.Partners.

Obstacles to the acceleration of EV production and demand in the United States include ongoing turmoil in global supply chains, insufficient vehicle charging infrastructure and an overloaded electrical grid, the 120-page report said.

The report notes that EV battery demand is expected to increase tenfold or more by 2030, but that a “massive dislocation” between demand and supply of key materials such as lithium, cobalt and nickel is likely to increase the cost of EVs to consumers — a stark finding as a global price war, ignited by leader Tesla, escalates.

The study is based on dozens of interviews and cites technical and financial data from research studies by the International Energy Agency, the US Energy Information Administration, McKinsey, Silicon Valley Bank, Carnegie Mellon University and others.

In keeping with its focus on “the movement of people and goods on the ground, in the air, at sea and in space,” UP.Partners looked beyond terrestrial vehicles to aviation, where it noted the dramatic rise in cargo drone deliveries in 2022 and a potentially “crippling” shortage of pilots by 2030.

While aviation companies continue to pursue alternative technologies from batteries to hydrogen, managing partner Cyrus Sigari said that sustainable aviation fuel is “the only rational pathway” to reducing aviation carbon emissions over the next 20 years.


New record gathering of 180 Mercedes-AMG cars set at Sepang International Circuit

                SEPANG: Mercedes-Benz Malaysia (MBM) and AMG Owners Club of Malaysia has set a gathering record of 180 Mercedes-AMG cars at a single location recently.

The feat, achieved at the AMG Track Day 2022 at the Sepang International Circuit here, also saw club members getting an exclusive driving experience featuring a selection of luxury and high-performance vehicles from Mercedes-Benz Malaysia.

 Jopp flagging off the Mercedes-AMG cars.

The AMG Track Day was held along side the launch of the new locally-assembled Mercedes-AMG A 35 sedan and GLA 35, and the preview of the Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series, the top model in the GT family.

MBM vice-president of sales and marketing Michael Jopp said the company was excited to have the AMG Track Day return this year.

“It is a thrilling experience unlike any other and it was a privilege to have our customers and prospective customers out here with us, immersing ourselves in the Ultimate Driving Performance.

“This event is part of our efforts to offer the best customer experience with our latest Mercedes-Benz and Mercedes-AMG cars and we are grateful to our partner the AMG Owners Club of Malaysia (AOCM) for supporting it.

“This initiative by MBM once again underlines the brand’s ongoing values by presenting the Best Customer Experience to loyal customers and prospective buyers by combining adrenaline, speed, precision and power with the Mercedes-AMG models at the Sepang International Circuit," he said.

READ MORE: 50 BMW M cars come together for 50 years of M


Toyota revises kit on Hilux, Fortuner and Innova

                SHAH ALAM: UMW Toyota Motor has upgraded several features of its Toyota Hilux range as well as added a new variant including enhancements to its Fortuner sport utility vehicle and Innova multi-purpose vehicle and the orders books are now open.

For the Toyota Hilux pick-up truck range, a new Hilux 2.8 Black Edition now replaces the Hilux 2.8L-Edition as the range-topper, now with a bolder appearance with an exterior colour theme of black and dark grey and gets priced at RM139, 888 on-the-road without insurance.

A glossy black finish is applied to the door handles, fog lamp covers, wing mirrors and 18-inch alloy wheels while dark grey is used for the bumper guards and grille for a contrasting effect.

Inside, there's a new 6.75-inch infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay available as standard, seamless connectivity is possible for all current smartphones (provided the required software is installed).

Introducing also as recommended is Vehicle Telematics System (VTS), with a three-year free subscription by purchasing the Toyota insurance package.

In addition, the Rear Digital Video Recorder (DVR) is to supplement the one installed at the front and with the additional DVR covering the back of the vehicle it can be used as evidence in the event of a rear-end collision.

Customers can also include with their purchase optional Advanced Safety & Security features that include Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) system fitted to the wing mirrors and Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA) to detect vehicles approaching from either side when reversing.

Other Hilux models include the 2.4 Single Cab M/T, 2.4 STD M/T, 2.4 G M/T, 2.4 G A/T and 2.4 L-Edition A/T with prices ranging from RM90,000 to RM124,888.

The Fortuner 2.7 SRZ and 2.4 VRZ now comes with the Android Auto and Apple CarPlay as a standard, together with a large 9.0-inch display for its
infotainment system with the required software installed on the smartphone and do not come with a price revision.

The Fortuner 2.4 variant now comes with seven airbags and have the option of adding a rear Digital Video Recorder (DVR) for the display and can be installed by UMWT’s own personnel.

Although prices of the Fortuner 2.7 SRZ A/T and 2.4 VRZ A/T have not changed, the 2.4 A/T is now priced at RM171,500 on-the-road without insurance.

Like the Fortuner, the Innova 2.0X and 2.0G variants also get Android Auto and Apple CarPlay as standard together with the new 9.0-inch display with now changes in pricing.

Also as an optional extra, BSM and RCTA are available as well as a DVR for the front and rear of the vehicle.

The optional items can be ordered prior to purchasing with the installation done at UMWT’s own Accessories Centre.

There are three variants of the latest Innova to choose from, all powered by a 2.0-litre engine and are the 2.0X A/T, 2.0G A/T and 2.0 E A/T.

For more information, log on to toyota.com.my or call Toyota freephone line at 1-800-8-TOYOTA (869682).


Manhattan's newest Covid-age real estate bet: condos for cars

                NEW YORK: A Manhattan garage operator is betting that city dwellers in the Covid age are driving more, and would pay a premium for a personal place to put their cars.

Centerpark converted an Upper East Side garage into a condominium — but instead of apartments, it's selling 23 parking spaces, and hired a luxury real estate broker to market them for sale to the public for as much as US$350,000 (RM1.5mil) each.

"So many people have said 'I'm not going to get on the subway again for a very, very long time," said Kirsten Jordan, the Douglas Elliman Real Estate broker who's marketing the units.

"There are others saying, 'I'm paying US$60 (RM254) to get from the Upper East Side to Tribeca — because Ubers are so expensive. It might make sense to buy'" a spot.

The pandemic has transformed where New Yorkers live, how they work and how they get around. As of mid-July, weekday subway ridership had plummeted 54% from the pre-Covid days, according to the Partnership for New York City. The number of city-bound travellers on the suburban commuter rails was down more than half.

New vehicle registrations in Manhattan jumped 27% in 2020 to 55,748, according to the state Department of Motor Vehicles. They're on course to top that total this year, with 37,735 new registrations recorded through July 29.

That has increased demand for parking, according to Centerpark chief executive officer Gregg Reuben. The restaurant sheds that have sprouted up along roadways, combined with new bike lanes, have eliminated as many as 10,000 street spaces, he said.

And garages that offer monthly rentals are raising prices.

"It's simply going to become more challenging to own a car in Manhattan," said Reuben, who estimates that at least three of the firm's other 17 Manhattan rental garages could go condo.

"People are looking for convenience and security, and there are others who see this strictly as an investment opportunity."

Most of Manhattan's for-sale garage spaces are open only to residents of the properties they're affiliated with, according to Jonathan Miller, president of appraiser Miller Samuel Inc.

And they're rising in value: The average per-square-foot price of spots at condo and co-op buildings has soared 51% in the past year.

At one new condo project, 378 West End Ave., nine parking spaces open only to owners of the buildings' priciest apartments are listed for sale at US$550,000 (RM2.4mil) each, filings show.

At Centerpark's garage at 301 E. 69th St., buyers would get 185 square feet of space between painted lines — enough for a car plus additional room to hang items like golf clubs or strollers along the wall.

A few contracts, at a pre-sale price of US$199,000 (RM843,000), are pending. Owners must pay property taxes — projected at US$3,720 (RM16,000) annually — and common charges, just as they would on a residential condo.

"It's about as close to having your own driveway in Manhattan as you can get," said Reuben.


Nissan's premium brand Infiniti names new global chief

                BEIJING: Nissan Motor Co’s premium division Infiniti is expected to announce a new acting global chief for the brand, the company said, after its newly appointed head, Christian Meunier, left to lead the Jeep unit of Fiat Chrysler Automobiles.

Nissan’s chief quality officer Christian Vandenhende will oversee Infiniti’s global operations effective immediately, until a new brand chief is named, Infiniti said in the statement on Tuesday.
 Vandenhende (left) and Meunier.
Meunier was named global chief in early January after its previous boss Roland Krueger left the Hong Kong-based brand.

Meunier will take over as global president for SUV-focused Jeep effective immediately, Fiat Chrysler said in a separate statement.

An Infiniti spokesman said Meunier’s resignation was not related to Nissan’s internal investigation into its former leader Carlos Ghosn.


It takes teamwork: Tips for motorcycle rides with a passenger

                HAMBURG: Curvy country roads or a straight avenue. Every motorcyclist has a favourite route and it's nice to be able to share this with friends or family members as pillion passengers.

However, there are a few precautions to take to ensure that the journey is enjoyable and safe for both the motorcyclist and their passenger.

An understanding between these two people is crucial, according to motorbike specialist Joerg Lohse. "The journey is like teamwork, both people have to coordinate with each other," he says.

If both are travelling together for the first time or after a long break they should agree hand signals or knocking signals before starting their journey.

"These are used for quick communication, for example to warn against riding too fast or to call for a break," Lohse says. A more high-tech system is to have an intercom fitted into the two helmets.

Before the first big tour, Lohse recommends a practice ride in a large parking lot or an empty industrial street.

"When there is no traffic in sight, the team can practise acceleration, braking, emergency braking and cornering, and refine their interaction," he says.

Especially for newbies, motorcycling is a new and dynamic driving experience that needs to be practised.

Lohse considers suitable all motorcycles that have a wide, soft, long and comfortable seat, such as travel enduros or tourers.

Even if machines are designed for two-person use with rear footrests and handles, road safety expert Juergen Bente says that some technical adjustments may be necessary.

For example, depending on the manufacturer the bike might require pre-loading of the rear spring or an increase in tyre pressure.

Exact instructions will usually be found in the motorcycle's manual. It's also important not to exceed the total permissible weight.

Michael Lenzen, the chairman of Germany's Federal Association of Motorcyclists, advises caution when getting on the machine.

"The easiest way to get on is when the rider holds the machine with a secure stance, the pillion passenger steps on a footrest and pulls themselves up with one hand on the shoulder of the rider," he says.

Prudent riders will start off slowly and will avoid leaning too much as well as heavy acceleration and violent braking. For the pillion passenger, they'll find a secure hold by hugging the rider at the hip.

Built-in handholds can be useful, but usually shift the focus towards the rear. "That is why we advise friends or family members to grip the rider," Lenzen says.

"In addition to the agreed hand signals, the pillion passenger should adopt the same posture and movement as the rider, such as leaning into curves," Bente says.

During cornering, the pillion passenger should ideally drop down into the curve to avoid the two helmets colliding when the rider brakes.

The rider also has to adapt to having a passenger onboard. "Because of the higher weight, the driving behaviour changes," Bente says. "The acceleration and braking distance take longer. The rider also needs to put more pressure on the brake lever."

Another tip is not to overdo it when starting out. "Especially the first trip when the pillion passenger has not yet got used to motorcycling doesn't have to be long," Lenzen recommends.


New Ford Focus arrives, starting at RM119K

PETALING JAYA: The new Ford Focus is launched today, priced at RM118,888 for the 5-door Trend variant and RM139,888 for the 4-door Titanium+ variant and 5-door Sport+ variants.

The new Focus has a 1.5-litre four cylinder Ecoboost engine, which is the most powerful in its class - pumping out 178hp and 240Nm of torque, and is mated to a six-speed SelectShift automatic transmission.

Additionally, all current Ford owners can enjoy a cash rebate of RM3,000 when buying the new Focus, until April 30, 2016.

For the RM21,000 price difference, the high-grade variants get extra or better kit including LED daytime running lights, power-adjustable and auto-folding side mirrors, auto headlamps, rain sensing wipers, dual-zone air-conditioning, 12V powerpoint in armrest stowage bin, leather upholstery, steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters, eight-inch touchscreen display SYNC2 with SD slot and nine audio speakers, rear armrest with integrated cup holders, side and curtain airbags, keyless entry and start, front parking sensors, Active Park Assist and City Stop, Blind Spot Information System with Cross Traffic Alert, and cruise control.

READ MORE:Brief experience after Malaysian launchFirst drive of Ford Focus in Australia

The Focus is a bread-and-butter model that has come to be Ford's best-selling passenger car on a global scale since 2012 in its third-generation status.

Since the Focus was introduced in 1998, 12 million cars had been sold globally, 2.3 million of them in the Asia-Pacific region.

The new Focus is also the only car in its class in Malaysia to have an enhanced Active Park Assist system, Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) with Cross Traffic Alert.

Using radar technology, BLIS alerts the driver when another motorist is in the driver’s blind spot by illuminating warning LEDs in the external mirrors.

In urban driving up to 50 km/h, an enhanced Active City Stop system can help to mitigate low-speed collisions.

Using a windshield-mounted sensor to detect braking, slower-moving or stationary vehicles in front, the system pre-charges the brakes if the car is approaching a vehicle in front too quickly.

If the driver fails to take action, the system reduces engine torque and automatically applies the brakes to reduce the impact of a collision.

The new Focus even allows owners to encourage safe driving when they are not behind the wheel, with Ford MyKey.

Owners can programme a spare key to reduce the maximum speed of the vehicle, give an earlier low-fuel warning, limit the volume of the in-car entertainment or even disable it completely if the seatbelt is not fastened.

“The new Focus has evolved in nearly in every aspect – design, smart technology, driving dynamics, powertrain and refinement. We’re confident this will further strengthen its appeal with Malaysian customers,” said Sime Darby Auto Connexion managing director Syed Ahmad Muzri Syed Faiz.

Cutting-edge technologies include SYNC 2, Ford’s in-car connectivity system that boasts an eight-inch colour touchscreen to operate phone, entertainment and climate control using a simple voice command system.

There is also a smart, hands-free parking system called Enhanced Active Park Assist, which builds on Ford’s popular Parallel Park Assist with the addition of Perpendicular Park Assist.

Once activated, the system scans for available parking spaces alongside other cars.

When it finds one, the system takes control of the car’s steering to guide the vehicle into the space while the driver controls the shifting, braking and acceleration.

Perpendicular Park Assist uses two new ultrasonic sensors on the rear of the car, which also enables Park-Out Assist.

Park-Out Assist takes the stress out of exiting a parallel parking space by taking control of the steering while the driver operates the brake and accelerator.

When reversing from a perpendicular parking space, Cross Traffic Alert uses three distinct warnings to alert drivers if the system detects a vehicle approaching either from the left or the right side, up to a range of 40 metres.

A more refined Electric Power Assisted Steering (EPAS) system further improves the driving experience with more precise steering and lower effort.

The new Focus also offers impressive levels of cabin quietness, with sound deadening materials – including sound-insulating windshield glass, thicker side-window glass, thicker carpets, increased insulation in the door trims, and improved engine insulation – for increased refinement.


Local apps for motorists get mixed reception

                PETALING JAYA: There is a mobile app for everything these days. From ones that highlight the best places to eat, to an app that helps you find the nearest public toilet, new mobile apps are hitting the market every day.

Even local authorities are jumping on the bandwagon with a range of software as their additional ways to communicate with the public especially their ratepayers. The local councils have worked with app creators to jointly develop and tailor them to municipal needs.

While some, like those related to parking and compound payment apps are well used, others have received a poor response, partly because the apps have not been improved or updated regularly.

Several community leaders in Kuala Lumpur said they preferred to contact the local authority directly instead of using mobile apps. “After all these years, we have already established a relationship with them, so it is easier to contact them directly,” he said.

Bukit Bandaraya Residents Association (BBRA) adviser Datuk M. Ali questioned what assurance was there that the response time would be faster by using the apps.

“I would usually call their service hotline, followed by formal letters and emails. Sometimes, I would even have to call the respective units or departments to get an update.

“Acknowledging and responding to any form of communication from the public within one or two weeks must be a SOP (standard operating procedure) for all at DBKL,” he added.

Kuala Lumpur resident T. Reena, 29, said she was sceptical of apps that required personal information during registration.

Aduan MPSJ is developed by MPSJ for users to report problems regarding public facilities. Currently, it is only available on Google Play Store. “Some of the apps like KLCares and iClean Selangor require handphone numbers and even identity card numbers.

“I would not want to give such personal information out as I do not know how much protection there is for my information,” she said, adding that providing an email address should be sufficient.

Since it was first introduced by Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) early this year, the eDrive DBKL has only received a 2.5 stars rating with some 1,000 downloads from Google Play Store.

 The Itis command centre in Kuala Lumpur.

While there were some positive reviews, most said they found the mobile app inconvenient to use, while others lamented that it did not provide real-time data.

The app is linked to the Integrated Transportation Information System (Itis) that allows road users to check on traffic and plan their journey.

One council-led app that is highly popular is the FlexiParking app which allows users to pay parking fees via their smartphones. And in some cases, motorists are also able to pay for parking compounds using the same method.

Developed by Leading Innovative Technologies & Systems Sdn Bhd (LiTS), the app is used in the jurisdiction of five Selangor local councils. It was previously reported that the app had been downloaded more than 10,000 times across all councils.

Taman Permata resident Jason Lim, 25, said he only used FlexiParking app to pay for parking.

“Since the app was introduced here, it has been my go-to method to pay. It saves time and I do not have to scratch out a parking coupon. “It was worse previously when there was only the parking machines as most were usually faulty,” he said.

Shah Alam City Council (MBSA) corporate communications head Shahrin Ahmad said both the i-Adu and FlexParking apps were well received as they enabled the public to file complaints easily, which helped save time.

“In this era of information technology, MBSA has also taken steps to provide quick service to the community, especially when the public do not have the time or the inclination to fight through traffic congestion to lodge a complaint or settle similar matters at the counters in the council’s office.

“Therefore, we have introduced these mobile apps to enable the public to interact with the council or file complaints with ease,” he said.

He added that FlexiParking had 13,867 users to-date and the council anticipated that the number would increase as the app was easy to use and the process was quick.

Subang Jaya Municipal Council (MPSJ) public relations senior assistant director Asfarizal Abdul Rashid said the Aduan MPSJ app was developed in 2011 and the council was updating it.

“The public can file complaints or alert the council on matters such as damaged public facilities, attach photos related to their complaints, and add a location. This ensures that we get the correct information, especially the location.”

“It is convenient for users because they can carry out all these tasks on their smartphones instead of having to download the relevant forms to a computer and attach the files to the email.

“With these mobile apps, the public can also check the status of their complaints and find out if the problems have been rectified.”


Bring on the power: Detroit auto show roars to life

 The Hyundai Santa Cruz Crossover Truck Concept.

Luxury and performance vehicles look set to steal the headlines at the first major international auto show of the year in Detroit, further proof the industry is back to its boisterous best after near-collapse.

The world’s top vehicle manufacturers were Sunday putting their finishing touches to their extravagant display stands and there was no mistaking the prevailing sense of optimism and anticipation.

The US auto industry last year clocked up its best year in sales in nearly a decade and, with the low cost of gas and low interest rates, has created what analysts are calling a near-perfect storm.

With host Detroit now on the long road to recovery after the largest municipal bankruptcy in US history, experts are expecting the North American International Auto Show to let its hair down.

More than 40 new car and truck models are forecast to go on display from Monday, when the show opens its doors to the media.

 Buick Cascada.

All the talk points to the luxury sector as being the one to watch this year.

“I’m convinced the US economy and auto market are on the same upward trajectory as the city of Detroit,” Mercedes-Benz chief Dieter Zetsche said Sunday, presenting the new GLE Coupe - a hefty combination of power and luxe - at an upscale downtown hotel.

Much of the pre-show buzz has surrounded a new incarnation of Honda’s legendary Acura NSX supercar and Ford was expected to roll out one of its own in the shape of an eagerly awaited new GT.

“The NSX is going to be beautiful. This is what you go into journalism for,” said Scott Burgess, Detroit editor at Motor Trend.

“You could almost have a motor show just for the NSX.”

Ford’s refusal to give any information away has served only to whet appetites and increase speculation.

 Mulsanne Speed

“Ford has been the quietest in not telling us what they have,” he said.

Not to be outdone, Cadillac will show off its most powerful product in the brand’s 112-year history, the new 640 horsepower CTS-V. And then there will be Lexus with it GS F performance sedan.

“It’s a very exciting time to be a luxury brand in the US. Luxury cars are making inroads into the mass market,” said Ravi Shanker, executive director and lead auto analyst at Morgan Stanley.

Brian Bolain, corporate marketing manager, Lexus division, told the same Society of Automotive Analysts conference Sunday: “Luxury is about the brand, always has been, and will continue to be so.”

But while the overall mood in Detroit is overwhelmingly more positive than in recent memory, it is not all good news.
The European market “continues to bomb,” said Shanker, while emerging markets in Brazil and Russia “are struggling a bit.”

And while the low price of gasoline is drawing buyers back to gas-guzzling performance vehicles, there is a downside to that too, said Shanker.

“It’s good because there are more dollars in consumers’ pockets,” he said.

“But then it’s bad because lots of the US economy depends on the gas and oil industry.”

And then there is the sensitive issue of recalls - a record 60 million vehicles in the US last year, with GM in particular in the spotlight over an ignition problem linked to dozens of deaths.

But amid all the gleam and muscle on display, no one was talking about recalls as the show poised to open.

 Mayer Hawthorne of Mayer Hawthorne and The County helping Mercedes-Benz introduce the GLE 63 Coupe (left) and the GLE 450 AMG Coupe at the Detroit auto show. - AFP Infiniti Q60 Concept. Buick Avenir Concept Mercedes-Benz Cars head Dr Dieter Zetsche at the world premiere of the new Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupes in Detroit. Honda FCV Concept. Teaser of the as-yet unveiled Acura NSX. Nissan Titan XD. Ford F-150 Raptor.


Tesla delays restart of Shanghai production

                SHANGHAI: Tesla has notified workers and suppliers that production at its Shanghai factory will not resume today as it had hoped, according to an internal notice shared with Reuters.

Reuters reported earlier on Sunday that the US automaker aimed to resume production today, citing two sources, as it expected to see its first batch of workers released from a lockdown the city imposed to combat a surge in Covid-19 cases.

However, Monday production plans have now been cancelled, according to the notice, which did not elaborate on the reasons or say when the company expected activity to resume.

Production at Tesla's Shanghai factory, which produces cars for the China market and is also a crucial export hub, has been halted since March 28 after the government launched a two-stage lockdown that started in areas east of the city's Huangpu River where the plant is located.

Tesla had originally hoped to only halt operations for four days, but cancelled production plans for Friday and Saturday after the authorities extended tight movement restrictions in the eastern half of the city. Virtually all of Shanghai is currently under lockdown.

The current stoppage marks one of the longest suspensions since the factory started production in late 2019. Tesla makes 6,000 Model 3 and 10,000 Model Y cars per week at its Shanghai factory, one of the sources said.

Tesla did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

"This was an exceptionally difficult quarter due to supply chain interruptions and China zero-Covid policy," its chief executive officer, Elon Musk, said in a tweet on Saturday.


Proton all set for fresh start in Chile

                SANTIAGO: Proton is gearing up to relaunch its models here this Saturday after almost a two-decade hiatus.

Proton began shipment of 50 units of Preve to Chile in March following an announcement last November that Proton would re-enter the Chilean market. It last exported Wiras to Chile in 1998.

Malaysian ambassador to Chile Datuk Dr Mohamad Rameez Yahaya said Proton would bring 1,000 units of selected models into the market and expects to generate RM68 million in sales.

"This indicates that Malaysia-Chile relations continue to grow stronger," he said in his address at the Seminar on Business Opportunities with Malaysia, organised by the Malaysian External Trade and Development Corporation (Matrade) here on Monday.

Mohamad Rameez said Chile is the only Latin America country to have signed a free trade agreement with Malaysia which makes the country an even more important trade partner for Malaysian companies planning to venture into the continent.

Mohamad Rameez said Proton had appointed Andes Motor, a member of Kaufman Group, as its distributor here. Kaufman Group is the top car distributor in Latin America.

It would begin with the sales launch of the Preve and Exora this month, followed by the Saga in November.

On trade prospects between the two nations, Mohamad Rameez said bilateral trade between Malaysia and Chile is expected to grow further as both are members of the Trans-Pacific Partnership trade pact.