Exit: Renault’s US$2.4bil worth of Russian assets prove too toxic

                PARIS: Fifteen years ago, Vladimir Putin had a problem.

AvtoVaz, maker of the favoured car brand of the communist era, was the butt of jokes (How do you double the value of a Lada? Fill the tank.)

The state-owned company was struggling to cope with competition from foreign automakers that ventured into Russia after the collapse of the Soviet Union.

Despite AvtoVaz’s troubles, when the Kremlin put a stake in AvtoVaz up for sale in 2007, Western manufacturers lined up.

Renault prevailed over the likes of General Motors and Fiat, with Putin betting superstar executive Carlos Ghosn would respect the Russian identity of the company much like he had managed the proudly French and Japanese members of the word’s biggest auto alliance.

Landing Lada turned out to be a pyrrhic victory.

Renault announced Wednesday it will write off the value of its €2.2 billion (RM10.2bil) worth of assets in Russia, an amount equivalent to roughly a third of its market capitalisation.

It’s also assessing options for its more than two-thirds stake in AvtoVaz, an operation with a whopping 45,000 employees.

For weeks, Renault was reluctant to join the mass exodus of companies from Russia. Shutting down plants and cutting off trade was going to be far costlier for the carmaker than its rivals.

Renault sold more than 480,000 vehicles in the country last year, second only to France and more than double its deliveries in any other nation.

With no good options to choose from, Renault tried maintaining some semblance of status quo.

Days after Russia invaded Ukraine, the company temporarily halted its assembly plant near Moscow due to supply and logistics issues.

AvtoVaz succumbed to the same strains, but both set dates for when they planned to resume operations.

When Renault reopened the Moscow facility this week, the blowback was severe.

A member of parliament called for a UK boycott, and Ukraine’s foreign minister followed suit soon after.

Within hours, the company caved, suspending activity at the Moscow factory.

Renault was on shaky ground before Russia’s invasion.

Ghosn’s unceremonious ousting from Nissan in late 2018 destabilised the two companies’ alliance almost to the point of complete rupture.

Chief executive officer Luca de Meo’s plan to turn Renault around called for the carmaker to make still-meager profit margins for years to come.

Fitch Ratings has warned this tenuous recovery could be derailed.

The company’s market capitalisation has now fallen back below the value of its stake in Nissan.

De Meo hasn’t spoken publicly about what went into Renault management’s thinking about staying or going.

If the reversal of decades of investment in Russia by foreign businesses is permanent, it could lift AvtoVaz - Lada used to command almost 80% market share.

For the time being, however, sanctions will decimate the economy, and the asset has proven too toxic.

De Meo’s counterpart at Renault’s biggest rival, Stellantis CEO Carlos Tavares, is one of increasingly few Western bosses who has tried to justify keeping assembly lines running.

He said early this month pulling out of Russia would hurt workers, not Putin.

"I don't buy that we need to make announcements on pulling back or not," Tavares told reporters.

"What’s important is that we take care of the people."

Given how quickly the pressure campaign on Renault forced its hand, Stellantis’ van factory near Moscow may not operate for much longer.


D-Max adapts to changing tastes

                With almost 100 years of automotive experience, Isuzu Motors continues to be renowned for its commercial vehicles that are fuel-efficient and robust.

In a recent interview, its general manager (light commercial vehicle – product planning and vehicle engineering) Makoto Tamazawa said that in the last decade, the demand for interior comfort from pick-up truck buyers had increased significantly.

This is in tandem with the evolution of the pick-up truck, from an austere utility vehicle to a dual-purpose leisure vehicle-cum-workhorse.

The Japanese automaker’s new-generation pick-up trucks feature an interior with executive car-like ambience, and a ride quality geared towards passenger car comfort.

“In the market, there are pick-ups with all-round coil springs and even multi-link rear suspensions which can provide better comfort.

“On the other hand, the rigid leaf-spring rear suspension is better for hauling heavy loads or business usage,” noted Tamazawa who is based in Fujisawa city, Japan.

He said the higher demand for occupant comfort meant that pick-up truck engineers faced an increasingly daunting challenge in achieving a balance between ride comfort and commercial needs.

As a result, the second-generation Isuzu D-Max has a stylishly-finished cabin with features that are geared towards passenger comfort and ease of use.

These include a top-notch audio system where Isuzu engineers embedded a pair of class-first ‘exciter’ tweeters into the roof lining to create a spatial soundstage.

 Isuzu D-Max acting as transports for the media during the Borneo Safari (2013) where it earned the Vehicle of the year award.

However, Tamazawa emphasised that Isuzu’s approach has always been about durability and reliability.

“Isuzu Motors is a commercial vehicle manufacturer with a long and illustrious history.

“We have the benefit of using this DNA when developing pick-ups. We are different from other pick-up marques,” he said.

In designing the second-generation D-Max, Isuzu engineers focused on the pillars of “Reliable Buddy”, “Comfortable”, “Sporty” and “Durability” to meet the demands of the global marketplace.

“With the four pillars as a framework, the D-Max is able to satisfy the needs of buyers.

“Other equipment or features can be added to the pick-up, depending on the unique requirements of different markets,” said Tamazawa.

Although pick-ups are sporting larger storage space these days, such a trend says Tamazawa, might not be feasible in the long run.

“It is true that even the second generation D-Max is bigger, compared with its predecessor.

“However, you should note that we need to improve performance and fuel-efficiency, and yet at the same time, cater to current demands for more cargo carrying capacity and cabin room.

“So, it is difficult to balance all these requirements,” he said.

Tamazawa foresees that the size of future generation pick-ups will be similar to current sizes, with the exception of North America, “where the demand for extra large pick-ups is very strong”.

Meanwhile, the second generation D-Max has improved aerodynamics thanks to research work done using wind tunnel testing at sites such as the Japan Railway Technical Research Institute, which is known for Japan’s bullet train designs.

Tamazawa pointed out that extensive wind tunnel testing was carried out to enchance vehicle performance and fuel-efficiency.

“Although it is expensive and time consuming, we can optimise a vehicle aerodynamics through a rigorous battery of wind tunnel tests,” he said.

Before its global launch, the current D-Max had undergone durability testing of over four million kilometres.

Tamazawa said while CAE (computer-aided engineering) is essential in designing vehicles today, conventional methods are still employed.

“Actual vehicles need to be driven by humans under harsh conditions, different terrain and weather.

“Drivers come in all types – tall, short, petite, big and small.

“We do all kinds of tests in order to develop the best product,” he said.

Concerning hybrid powertrain technology, Tamazawa said the concept was expensive and mainly available for passenger cars.

“Hybrid pick-ups are not suitable at the moment.

“We also look at customer demand, and if the trend moves in this direction for pick-ups, we will be ready.”


Ferrari promises 'even more unique' cars in shift to electric

                MARANELLO: Electric and hybrid models should make up 80% of Ferrari's sales by 2030, the luxury carmaker told investors today, vowing to produce "even more unique" cars as it makes the expensive shift to zero-emission models.

"We believe we can use the electric engine to enhance the performance of our cars," chief executive Benedetto Vigna said today as he unveiled the company's long-awaited new business plan.

Vigna confirmed the Italian carmaker's plans to launch its first electric model in 2025, and Ferrari said it would launch 15 new models from 2023 to 2026.

"Everything we do will always focus on being distinctively Ferrari," company chairman John Elkann said in opening remarks.

"The opportunity set of electrification and electronics will allow us to make even more unique cars."

Ferrari expects fully-electric cars will make up 5% of sales in 2025 and 40% in 2030, Vigna said. Hybrid models should rise to 55% of sales in 2025 from 20% in 2021, before dropping to 40% in 2030.

Vigna said Ferrari would develop and build its own electric motors, inverters and battery modules for its electric models on a new assembly line at its plant here, while outsourcing non-core components to partners.

On its first SUV, "Purosangue" (Thoroughbred), Ferrari revealed it will be unveiled in September, with deliveries from 2023. Vigna said it would comprise no more than 20% of total annual sales and will have a V12 engine.

Faced with looming bans on fossil-fuel vehicles in Europe and China, major automakers have committed to spend more than US$250 billion (RM1.1tril) through 2025 on the shift to electrification, according to industry estimates.

Ferrari said it expects to invest €4.4 billion (RM20bil) by 2026, most of that on product development, while delivering EBITDA (core earnings) of €2.5-2.7 billion (up to RM12.3bil) by that year. The carmaker expects cumulated free cash flow of €4.6-4.9 billion (up to RM22.5bil) from 2022 to 2026.

Like other makers of sports cars, Ferrari's challenge goes beyond just the huge capital investments necessary to develop electric models that can match their high-performance fossil-fuel forebears.

Ferrari also sells an emotional experience to wealthy customers centred around the throaty roar of a powerful engine.

Customers and investors both like what Ferrari does today, with a long order book for cars that start from over €200,000 .

On the journey to electric sports cars, Ferrari needs to make sure its high-net worth customers and investors are along for the ride.


Audi teases new second-generation A1

A teaser image of the new A1 dashboard.
INGOLSTADT: Audi has begun teasing the all-new second-generation of the A1. The first teaser image isn't a cryptic, disguised artist's impression of the exterior though, but is instead an animated gif of the new model's dashboard.

Audi seems to have caught on to the idea that increasingly advanced infotainment systems are vital to the success of smaller, more affordable models such as the A1, which is why the first details released, on the Audi AG Facebook page, are of the hugely updated system.

What the image confirms is that the vastly enhanced infotainment system will be the kind of thing we'd normally associate with something much higher up in a manufacturer's range than an entry-level model like the A1.

 The current A1.

It features the haptic MMI Touch touchscreen display already found in the likes of the new A6, A7, A8 and Q8, and the car also gets Audi's Virtual Cockpit digital instrument panel. Unlike in those models though, the system in the A1 won't be offering the third display lower down the center console.

The Virtual Cockpit is also unlikely to be a standard feature of many A1 models and will instead be an optional extra. Even with something like the considerably more expensive A5 S-Line, the Virtual Cockpit is an expensive upgrade. Perhaps surprisingly though, a very similar system is part of standard equipment in other VW Group models such as the Volkswagen Golf GTI.

Second-generation A1s will be built on the VW Group's ubiquitous MQB platform, called A0, and using the new platform will bring a number of benefits. One of the first and most notable benefits will be to make the new A1 larger than the model it's going to be replacing.

Other changes from what we have at the moment include a colorful accent surrounding the vent that can be seen in the teaser, which hints that this junior member of the Audi range will be available with other customisation and personalisation options not seen on more expensive models. A full reveal of the new A1 has been confirmed to be taking place in Barcelona in the not too distant future, and the covers will likely come off the A1's exterior very soon.


Nissan JukeCam: World’s first integrated 360-degree camera

                PARIS: Nissan has unveiled its latest innovation for drivers with a sense of adventure. Called JukeCam, it’s the world's first integrated multipurpose 360º dashcam that transforms in seconds to an action sports camera. It also a special edition Juke called Juke Envy.

Two bespoke mounts – one integrated into the dashboard of a Nissan Juke crossover, and another attached to a helmet – mean that JukeCam is suited for filming every aspect of the driver’s life.

That could be life on the road, where dashboard cameras can help reduce insurance premiums and settle claims. Or it could be life on the slopes, in the air, down mountain trails or on any other adventure where a first-person action camera is part of the kit list.

The fully integrated JukeCam has an ‘always-on’ recording capacity of three hours when used as a dash-cam, allowing journeys to be recorded should the footage be required for an insurance claim. Once JukeCam is detached from the dashboard-mounted base to be used as an action camera, the battery will last up to two hours.

Nissan JukeCam is a technology concept that’s been developed in conjunction with 360fly, a manufacturer of 360º cameras.

The JukeCam was showcased by Xpogo in new Guinness World Records attempt.

Juke Envy
Nissan now offers its crossover customers another way to stand out from the crowd by enhancing the Juke’s individual personality with a stylish new Special Version – the Juke Envy. The new model plays a starring role in the video of Xpogo’s Guinness World Record breaking attempt.

The Juke Envy adds striking personalisation options. Tokyo Black front and rear bumper inserts, headlight inserts for the Xenon headlights and 18” alloy wheels with Tokyo Black inserts are complemented with Detroit Red wing mirror covers and Style Pack for the side door sills and lower boot finisher. The styling continues inside the cabin with Detroit Red interior personalisation.

Juke Envy is available with a choice of two powertrains – the DIG-T 115 petrol and dCi 110 diesel.


PJ car theft syndicate busted, 12 arrested

                PETALING JAYA: If your old car has been stolen, you might still be able to get it back.

Police have crippled a car theft syndicate here that specialised in cannibalising old vehicles for parts.

The group has been linked to thefts all over Selangor, including in Petaling Jaya, Subang Jaya, South Klang, North Klang and Kajang.

Petaling Jaya OCPD Asst Comm Mohd Zani Che Din said a team of police personnel from the Petaling Jaya crime intelligence (D4) and serious crimes (D9) units raided a scrap metal shop at Section 20, Bandar Serendah, Hulu Selangor at around 3.30pm on Oct 16.

READ MORE: Insurers see drop in car thefts in Malaysia

"We arrested 12 suspects during the raid, including two Bangladeshi nationals and an Indian national aged between 24 and 50.

"Checks at the yard revealed 21 vehicles which had been reported stolen," he told reporters at the Petaling Jaya police headquarters on Saturday (Oct 19).

The vehicles included 12 Proton Iswara, eight Proton Saga and a Mazda van.

"The vehicles were reported stolen in Petaling Jaya, Subang Jaya, North Klang, South Klang, Kajang, Cheras and Brickfields," said ACP Zani.

"Further investigations revealed six of the suspects had been previously arrested for various crimes and drug-related cases.

"Interrogation of the suspects revealed their involvement in 30 car thefts in the Klang Valley since August this year," he said adding that the syndicate would cannibalise the stolen vehicles for parts before crushing the remaining chassis for scrap metal.

The suspects have been remanded until Aug 20 to help with investigations.


Türkiye builds new car battery plant

                ISTANBUL: The construction of a new automotive battery plant began Monday in northwestern Türkiye with a ceremony attended by Turkish president Recep Tayyip Erdogan.

SIRO, a joint venture between China-based Farasis Energy and Turkish electric car manufacturer Togg, held the groundbreaking ceremony for the new SIRO Battery Development and Production Campus in the town of Gemlik in the north-western Bursa province, said Xinhua.

The new facility will begin operation in 2026 and become an integrated centre manufacturing lithium-ion nickel manganese cobalt batteries, modules and packs.

"We are taking a step towards making Türkiye a powerful player in battery technologies," said Erdogan in his opening remarks. "Türkiye will become one of the few countries capable of developing and manufacturing battery cells."

He said that this investment would add US$33 billion to the GDP within 10 years and create 7,000 jobs.

"We showed our support by offering 30 billion liras (US$1.55 billion) in fixed investment," he added, "and we'll continue to support anyone who contributes to the Turkish economy, whether they are foreign or domestic."

The SIRO facility will be located right next to the Togg Technology Campus, where it already began manufacturing the batteries for Türkiye's first electric vehicles.

Founded in 2018 and backed by the state, Togg is seen as Erdogan's prestige project to relieve Türkiye's dependence on foreign carmakers.

Farasis Energy operates two production facilities in Ganzhou and Zhenjiang provinces in China. - Xinhua


Mercedes-Benz offers subsidies to retrofit older diesel cars in Germany

                BERLIN: Daimler said on Tuesday Mercedes-Benz customers in Germany could apply for a €3,000 (RM14,116) subsidy to upgrade the exhaust filters of older, polluting diesel vehicles, the latest effort among German car makers to avoid inner-city bans.

Car makers have been forced to consider upgrading exhaust treatment systems on older cars after German cities started banning heavily polluting diesel vehicles to cut fine particulate matter and toxic nitrogen oxides.

Daimler launched a website this week to process applications for financial support, as German motor authority KBA seeks to approve an after-market kit to upgrade the exhaust systems on various Mercedes diesel passenger vehicles.

The company has offered the subsidy to customers in German regions that face potential driving bans, the carmaker said.

The first retrofit kit for Mercedes cars with “Euro 5” diesel engines, including the best-selling E 220 and E 250 models, has been developed by Dr Pley SCR Technology, a Bavaria-based, family-owned business. It will cost around €3,000 to buy and install.

German carmakers initially offered software updates and shied away from endorsing hardware retrofits, instead lobbying for customers to buy new cars with cleaner engines.

But consumer groups pressured carmakers to endorse retrofits as a more cost-effective measure.

“We have known right from the start that retrofits are feasible and have now proved this to the carmakers,” said Thomas Steinbrueckner, head of development at Dr Pley SCR Technology.


Aston Martin to shed up to 500 jobs in cost-cutting drive

                LONDON: Aston Martin plans to shed up to 500 jobs as it seeks to bring its cost base into line with reduced sports car production levels, it said on Thursday.

The job cuts come a week after Aston Martin confirmed that Tobias Moers, CEO of Mercedes-AMG, would become chief executive on Aug 1, replacing Andy Palmer.

The 107-year old firm said the job losses reflected lower than originally planned production volumes and improved productivity across the business. An employee and trade union consultation process will be launched in the coming days.

Aston Martin, famed for being fictional secret agent James Bond’s car of choice, has seen its share price plummet since floating in October 2018.

Last month, it posted a deep first-quarter loss after sales dropped by almost a third due to the impact of the novel coronavirus outbreak.

“The measures announced today will right-size the organisational structure and bring the cost base into line with reduced sports car production levels, consistent with restoring profitability,” it said.

It said its first sports utility vehicle (SUV), the DBX, which is key to boost volumes and appeal to new buyers including more women, remains on track for deliveries in the summer and has a strong order book.

Aston Martin is also reducing costs and removing non-critical expenditure in other areas, including contractor numbers, site footprint, marketing and travel.

It said the restructuring is expected to deliver total annual savings of about £38 million (RM203mil). Restructuring costs are expected to be about £12 million (RM64.2mil).


Mercedes-Benz springs a Concept IAA

FRANKFURT: The Mercedes-Benz "Concept IAA" (Intelligent Aerodynamic Automobile) is two cars in one: an aerodynamics world champion with a Cd value of 0.19 and a four-door coupé embodying irresistible design.

The study, which is celebrating its world premiere at the Frankfurt International Motor Show, switches automatically from design mode to aerodynamic mode when the vehicle reaches a speed of 80 kph, whereby numerous aerodynamics measures alter the shape of the vehicle.

Inside, the "Concept IAA" continues the design line of the S-Class and S-Class Coupé, offers new touch-based functions and provides an idea of what the interior of a business saloon might look like in the near future.

At the touch of a button, or automatically on reaching a speed of 80 km/h, the Mercedes-Benz "Concept IAA" (Intelligent Aerodynamic Automobile) performs a fascinating transformation in which the captivatingly beautiful four-door coupé turns into an aerodynamics world champion: eight segments extend at the rear, increasing its length by up to 390 millimetres; front flaps in the front bumper extend by 25 mm to the front and 20 mm to the rear, improving the air flow around the front end and the front wheel arches; the Active Rims alter their cupping from 55 mm to zero; and the louvre in the front bumper moves 60 mm to the rear, improving the underbody air flow.

"Fascinating and technically sophisticated cars form the core of Mercedes-Benz. The 'Concept IAA' applies intelligent innovations to resolve the conflicting aims of functionality and aesthetics and shows that we still have plenty of ideas on how to achieve further improvements in efficiency," says member of the Daimler Board of Management for Group Research and Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars Development, Prof. Dr Thomas Weber.

Equally, the "Concept IAA" exemplifies the fundamental technological changes which are taking place in the automobile industry. The primary driving force behind this process of change is digitisation – commonly referred to in a business context as "Industry 4.0".

For Mercedes-Benz, a continuous digital process chain from research and development through production to marketing and sales, logistics and the service area is already becoming reality.

The interior of the "Concept IAA" combines stylish sportiness with modern luxury. The interior continues the design line of the S-Class and S-Class Coupé while providing an idea of what the interior of a business saloon might look like in the near future. The choice of colours and materials conjures up extrovert contrasts between anthracite and white as well as between aluminium and cut glass. Elegantly curved forms, flowing lines, carefully chosen high-quality materials and the touch-based operating philosophy provide for a high level of functionality.

The steering wheel also incorporates touch-based operating functions, offering great functionality in the most compact dimensions as a study in perfect ergonomics: OFN (Optical Finger Navigation) buttons, embedded in the clusters in a similar hovering manner as the touchpad in the centre console, enable the driver to scroll through the instrument cluster menus.

The OFN button on the left controls the left-hand display, while the button on the right controls the right-hand display. In this way, the "hands on the wheel, eyes on the road" operating philosophy which has been applied by Mercedes-Benz for many years now is implemented in a manner which is at once brilliantly simple and uncompromising.

The "Concept IAA" is 5040 mm long (5430 mm in aerodynamic mode), 1995 mm wide and 1305 mm high. Its wheelbase measures 2975 mm, and the front/rear track widths are 1710 and 1770 mm respectively. The concept car is powered by a petrol/electric plug-in hybrid drive with a total output of 205 kW (279 hp). This provides it with a top speed of 250 km/h (electronically limited). CO2 emissions and electric range depend on the mode in which the vehicle is tested: in aerodynamic mode the "Concept IAA" manages an all-electric range of 66 km and emits 28 g CO2 per km.

The "Concept IAA" show car forms part of a long line of aerodynamically perfected vehicles from Mercedes-Benz. With a dimensional concept that makes it suitable for everyday use, this four-seater attains a Cd value of 0.19, assuring it of a place in the gallery of record-breaking and racing vehicles such as the Mercedes-Benz W 25 record-breaker of the 1936 season.


China auto sales likely tumbled 18% in January, coronavirus seen taking heavy toll

Medical personnel arriving today with medical supplies in transport aircraft of the Chinese air force at the Wuhan Tianhe International Airport following the outbreak of the novel coronavirus in Wuhan. — Reuters
BEIJING/SHANGHAI: China’s vehicle sales likely fell by almost a fifth in January, marking a 19th consecutive month of decline, hurt by Lunar New Year holidays that started earlier than last year and by the coronavirus outbreak.

The epidemic will hit auto sales and production hard in the short term, the China Association of Automobile Manufacturers said, predicting competition in the industry would get fiercer and some smaller parts suppliers could collapse.

Preliminary data for January shows vehicle sales tumbled 18% while sales of battery electric and other so-called new energy vehicles plunged 54.4%, down for a seventh month in a row, the association said.

It did not give absolute figures.

Although the earlier start to the holidays, when consumers don’t do much shopping, was the main factor behind the dismal numbers, local governments began imposing travel curbs and warning residents to avoid public spaces in the last two weeks of January.

An extension of the holidays to counter the virus also discouraged dealers from ordering cars at the end of the month as is their usual practice.

“Due to the extension of the holidays, the shortage of workers and auto parts, we predict that the production of more than one million vehicles will be impacted by the coronavirus epidemic,” Chen Shihua, a senior association official said.

The association said last month sales are likely to shrink 2% in 2020, a third straight year of contraction.

In Hubei province where the outbreak began and a major car manufacturing hub responsible for nearly 9% of China’s output, Dongfeng Motor Group Co Ltd and its partners Honda Motor Co Ltd, Renault SA and Peugeot SA have all said they are delaying the restart of production.

Tesla Inc, which started delivering cars built at its $2 billion plant in Shanghai last month, restarted production in Shanghai on Monday with local government help.

Those operating plants outside Hubei province such as Volkswagen AG and General Motors Co have said they will keep some factories idled for an extra one or more weeks.

Industry sales fell 8.2% last year, pressured by new emission standards in a shrinking economy and by trade tension with the United States.


Fancy cookies in the shape of cars?

This sample lets you make cookies in the shape of the Mazda RX-7.
PETALING JAYA: Since we’re going to be spending more time at home in this pandemic, it’s best to pick up a hobby like ... baking cookies.

Why cookies? Because there is a website that sells car cookie cutters. Yes, cookies in the shape of cars and it will taste better because of it too (well, maybe).

Though it’s an American website with USD prices, you can opt to purchase it or do a DIY car cookie cutter project and then bake the cookies.

That will definitely keep you busy and your stomach full.


Danish police seize Lamborghini Huracan caught speeding

A Huracan though not the one seized by Danish police.
COPENHAGEN: Danish police have confiscated a high-performance luxury car after its new owner was caught speeding as he drove it home from Germany to Norway, a northern Danish newspaper reported Friday.

The man, an Iraqi citizen resident in Norway who was not identified, was registered Thursday as driving at 236kph in his Lamborghini Huracan on a stretch of highway where the top speed is 130kph.

Under a new Danish law, police can seize the vehicles of reckless drivers and auction them off, with the money going into Danish coffers.

The Nordjyske newspaper said the man had bought the car hours earlier in Germany for 2 million kroner (RM1.3mil).

Jess Falberg, the on-duty officer with the northern Denmark police, told Nordjyske that the owner was “a little annoyed” when the car was seized.

The car owner will also be fined for speeding in due course.


Local Hot Rocket Racing Club unlocks new achievement

                SHAH ALAM: Hot Rocket Racing Club has achieved a historial milestone by securing podium finishing in all its go-kart endurance races throughout 2022.

Hot Rocket’s elite team dubbed ‘Rocket Nation’ finished third at the ‘Pinnacle Kart 6-hour Endurance Race’ organised by Kelab Karting Selangor (KKS).

Hot Rocket Team A which is Hot Rocket’s second runner-up team qualified the 12th position due to technical difficulties but climbed up and finished 4th position.

Hot Rocket Team B consists of academy drivers who finished 11th position overall.

Hot Rocket Racing Club's wins in 2022 are:
> Traxion Supercar Owner Go Kart Championship R1 – 1st position
> Traxion Supercar Owner Go Kart Championship R2 – 3st position
> Traxion Supercar Owner Go Kart Championship R3 – 2st position
> Kart Hauz 4-hour Endurance Race – 1st position
> Pinnacle Kart 6-hour Endurance Race – 3rd position

The go-kart racing club which has 500 registered members and over 1,600 followers on social media, now aims aims to double their member count and participate in international go-kart endurances races as the new year’s resolution.

The club said its success comes from its driver development programme that selects drivers with exceptional skill from the community and develops them into race winning drivers.

‘Rocket Nation’ is Hot Rocket’s elite team that consists of the community’s top drivers, while Hot Rocket Team A are the second runner-up and substitute drivers for the elite team, much like Red Bull and Alpha Tauri.

Hot Rocket Team B is the club’s training ground for both up and coming drivers and race team managers in training.

After every race, the seats for each team are refreshed and open to the rest of the community to ensure each driver retains their competitive edge.

For details on Hot Rocket Racing Club, visit www.hotrocketracingclub.com.


First drive of Toyota bZ4X electric SUV

                BURI RAM (Thailand): The media had a brief test drive of the all-electric Toyota bZ4X at this weekend's (Dec 16 to 18) Idemitsu 1500 Super Endurance race at the Chang International Circuit.

Likely to be launched in Malaysia in 2023, following its recent launch in Thailand in November, the all-wheel drive bZ4X has a 71.4-kWh lithium-ion battery, and a travel range of up to 411km.

As expected from a BEV (battery electric vehicle), the drive is near silent, without the noise or vibration of a combustion engine, and acceleration is effortless.

The electric SUV also felt very stable at speeds.

WATCH: Facebook video


Auto battle hits Indonesian streets

                JAKARTA: Despite being relatively minor players in the global automobile industry, Chinese carmakers have been gearing up to invest in Southeast Asias largest economy to pave their way to grab slices of the local auto market, which has long been dominated by Japanese brands such as Toyota, Honda and Daihatsu.

Earlier this week, PT SAIC-General Motors-Wuling (SGMW) Motor Indonesia, also known as Wuling Motors, launched the operation of its first local production facility in Indonesia.

With a US$700 million investment, the facility, located in Cikarang, West Java, is designed to produce 8,000 units of the Wuling Confero S by year-end.

 The Wuling Confero S. - Image from carreview.id

The low-cost car, with a price tag of between Rp 135 million (US$10,110) and Rp 165 million, will heat up competition in the low-end multipurpose vehicles (MPV) market against popular brands such as the Toyota Avanza, the Daihatsu Xenia and the Honda Mobilio.

Last year, another Chinese player, PT Sokonindo Automobile, a subsidiary of a joint venture between the Chinese Dongfeng Motor Group and the Chongqing Sokon Motor Group, entered the Indonesian market with the operation of a factory in Cikande, Banten.

The company produces pickup trucks under the Super Cab brand and has planned to market its sport utility vehicles (SUV) starting in 2018.

Meanwhile, PT Geely Mobil Indonesia, a subsidiary of Zhejiang Geely Holding Group Co. Ltd., and PT Chery Mobil Indonesia, a subsidiary of Cherry Automobile China, have been in the Indonesian market since 2009 and 2012, respectively.

Association of Indonesian Automotive Manufacturers (Gaikindo) chairman Yohanes Nangoi said the advent of non-Japanese players in the country's automotive industry was not new.  He said China still has a chance to muscle in on traditional Japanese auto markets but Japan still has the upper hand in Indonesia.

 Chery cars sold in Indonesia.

"The market is open, but we know that Japanese automakers are so far the most aggressive players in the sector," he said.

Yohanes, a former executive with PT Isuzu Astra Motor Indonesia the sole distributor of cars made by Japan's Isuzu Motors in Indonesia said that the cheap image of Chinese products would not affect sales of Chinese cars in Indonesia.

"Learning from history, we have seen changes in car tastes among Indonesian consumers. American and European products were popular in the 1960s, before being overtaken by Japanese and Korean brands.  And now it can be China's turn. We have to see the innovations and improvements from China," he added.

China and Japan have also been competing to secure major infrastructure projects in Indonesia. The former, in 2015, for example, defeated the latter in a bid to build a multi-billion-dollar high-speed railway connecting Jakarta and Bandung, West Java.

 What the Confero S looks like from inside.

The Industry Ministry's director-general for metal, machinery, transportation equipment and electronic industries, I Gusti Putu Suryawirawan, said Chinese investors are interested in putting their money in Indonesia after having looked at the countrys potential markets.

He said that in order to compete with Japanese brands, other producers had to pay attention to the cars' qualitiy, prices and aftersale services.

Chinese business players have learned from their past mistakes, such as not preparing the aftersales, which hampers their situation. Now, they have facilitated customers with easier access to their services, he told the Post.

Amid a global economic slowdown, Indonesia, home to more than 250 million people, saw domestic car sales decline to 1.21 million units in 2014 after touching 1.23 million in 2013. The figure fell by another 16 percent to 1.03 million in 2015.

Last year, car sales gained momentum when they increased again by 4.7 percent, nearly reaching the sales performance of 2014.

BMI Research estimated that more than 90 percent of Indonesia's car market is currently dominated by Japanese brands.

Separately, Center of Reform on Economic Indonesia executive director Mohammad Faisal said China's investment in the automotive sector would influence Indonesia's bargaining position towards Japan, including in pushing for technology transfer schemes in the automotive industry. - Jakarta Post/Asia News Network


INFINITI uses Q50 Red Sport 400 in 'human excitement' study - VIDEO

                DUBAI: INFINITI Middle East, in collaboration with Emotiv Inc, will seek to identify and measure the level of human excitement when individuals get behind the wheel of the recently launched Q50 Red Sport 400.

Over the next four weeks, customers around the Middle East region will have the opportunity to drive the Q50 Red Sport 400 wearing the pioneering Emotiv Insight headsets that will measure their mental performance indicators and sub-conscious responses to characterize their driving experience.

The Japanese luxury arm of Nissan rolled out the study under the banner of #UnleashYourPotential, which aims to demonstrate how the changes in brain activity when driving the powerful sports sedan can affect enjoyment, excitement, engagement and focus, improving driving performance and thereby increasing their potential.

"With new turbocharged engines and a range of enhanced technologies, the new INFINITI Q50 Red Sport 400 delivers a truly empowering drive. It delivers an experience that provokes powerful emotions, passion and excitement, enabling its driver to really push their limits.

Through our collaboration with Emotiv Inc., we are now focusing on translating what this emotion, power and excitement really means through a unique and innovative study that will allow us to quantitatively test how the Q50 Red Sport 400 helps our drivers to 'Unleash their potential,'" said INFINITI Middle East managing director Juergen Schmitz.

The Emotiv Insight is a sleek, five-channel, wireless EEG headset that records brainwaves and translates them into meaningful and easily understandable data.

It also the only device in its category that offers five EEG sensors plus two reference sensors.

The headsets provide in-depth information on brain activity and are the most technically advanced and credible consumer EEG devices on the market.

The Q50 Red Sport 400 features a 3.0-litre twin-turbo V6 petrol engine with direct injection to produce 400hp at 6,400rpm and 475Nm of torque from 1,600 to 5,200rpm.

It also features a host of technological advancements that include Directive Adaptive Steering, Dynamic Digital Suspension and safety innovations such as Back-up Collision Intervention with Cross Traffic Alert, Predictive Forward Collision Warning and Around View Monitor with Moving Object Detection.


Hyundai and Kia cut China output amid diplomatic tensions

                SEOUL: Hyundai Motor Co and Kia Motors Corp have slashed vehicle production in China, sources said, as diplomatic tensions and competition from Chinese brands play havoc on sales and threaten earnings.

China, the world's biggest auto market, accounted for over a quarter of the pair's 2016 overseas sales but their March sales there were smashed by anti-Korean sentiment and competition from the likes of Geely Automobile Holdings Ltd.

Hyundai and Kia saw their combined China sales slump by 52 percent in March from a year earlier, Yonhap news agency reported on Tuesday, endangering not only the automakers' earnings but those of South Korean suppliers.

Political tensions have soared since late February when South Korea's Lotte Group agreed to provide land for a US missile defence system outside Seoul. The move angered Beijing, although Seoul says the system is a response to North Korea's nuclear threat and is not aimed at China.

South Korean firms including Lotte Group have been targeted in a Chinese backlash involving boycott calls in state media, protests and suspensions of operations.

But analysts and sources said the row was just another headache for the South Korean carmakers, whose long-term challenge has been how to compete in China and the United States where their mainstay sedans have lost market share to sport utility vehicles.

"China is not the goose that lays the golden egg for Hyundai anymore,” said Lee Hang-koo, a senior research fellow at Korea Institute for Industrial Economics & Trade.

Hyundai's problems were a result of its "failed global strategy", he added.

Kia Motors has cut production shifts at its China factories, two of the sources familiar with the matter said. Hyundai also had eliminated a second shift from its three factories in Beijing starting mid-March, one of the people said.

The sources declined to be identified because the matter was not public. The automakers declined to comment on Tuesday.

Hyundai had already suspended output at its factory in Hebei from March 24 to April 4. It was unclear how the shift cuts would affect employment.

Hyundai Motor has four passenger car factories in China, with one more plant scheduled to commence production later this year. Kia, Hyundai's smaller affiliate, has three.

Poor consumer sentiment towards South Korean products in China had likely dragged down overseas sales in March, the companies said on Monday without putting a number on the falls. One source said Kia Motors' China sales likely more than halved in March from the year prior.

In the United States, Hyundai Motor posted a sales fall of 8 percent and Kia Motors slumped 15 percent in March from a year earlier. The US market declined 2 percent in March.

Hyundai Motor shares fell 2.6 percent and Kia Motors declined 0.8 percent in the wider market, which was down 0.1 percent.


Ford Lunar new year promotion

                PETALING JAYA: Sime Darby Auto Connexion (SDAC), the sole distributor of Ford in Malaysia, is ushering in the Lunar New Year by extending its prosperity sales promotion especially for the Ford Ranger XLT.

New Ford Ranger XLT owners can enjoy extended zero maintenance costs for five years or 100,000km (terms and conditions apply).

This promotion is valid from now until Feb 28, 2018 and the consumer-first promotion includes rebates up to RM5,000, shopping vouchers and exclusive, limited-edition angpow packets.

And that's not all as SDAC is also offering more rebates and goodies for other Ford models.

New owners of the Ford Ranger WildTrak will also receive up to RM5,000 in rebates, shopping vouchers and exclusive angpow packets.

The Ford Focus or Fiesta offers rebates up to RM23,000, three years free maintenance and five years warranty.

To ensure a safer, smoother journey home during the festive holidays, SDAC is encouraging Ford owners to take advantage of a free, 27-point vehicle inspection by Ford-certified technicians using only original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts.

There are also discounts of up to 20% on selected parts and a 10% labour discount on selected packages.

Customers who spend more than RM350 on a single valid Tax Invoice will also receive Free Ford merchandise available only at authorised dealers.

The nationwide promotion ends on Feb 17, 2018 while stocks last.

For more information on these attractive offers, visit www.sdacford.com.my.


BMW Group and Daimler AG join forces for automated driving

                MUNICH: The BMW Group and Daimler AG are to join forces on automated driving. Initially, the focus will be on advancing the development of next-generation technologies for driver assistance systems, automated driving on highways and parking features (up to SAE Level 4).

The two companies have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to jointly develop this technology, which is key for future mobility. The BMW Group and Daimler AG view their partnership as a long-term, strategic cooperation and aim to make next-level technologies widely available by the middle of the coming decade.

“As we continue to pursue our strategy, we are combining the expertise of two technology leaders. At the BMW Group, long-term partnerships within a flexible, scalable, non-exclusive platform are fundamental to advancing the industrialisation of autonomous driving. Combining the key expertise of our two companies will boost our innovative strength and speed up the spread of this technology,” said Klaus Fröhlich, Member of the Board of Management of BMW AG, Development.

Ola Källenius, Member of the Board of Management of Daimler AG, responsible for Group Research and Mercedes-Benz Cars Development said: “Autonomous driving is one of the most revolutionary trends for us at the moment, and the entire Daimler Group is working very hard on it. As always at Daimler, our top priority is safety.

"Instead of individual, stand-alone solutions, we want to develop a reliable overall system that offers noticeable added-value for customers. Working with the right partners, we want to make significant advances in enhancing the performance of this technology and bring it safely on the road.”

The planned cooperation offers the BMW Group and Daimler AG a number of obvious advantages: the skills and experience of the individual partners and a scalable architecture will speed up and streamline the development of future technology generations.

Joint development work will be carried out via a scalable architecture covering several stages of automation, with Levels 3 and 4 enabling automated driving on highways.

In addition, the two partners plan to discuss the possibility of extending their collaboration to cover higher levels of automation, both on highways and in urban areas. These considerations underline the sustainable, long-term nature of the cooperation, which includes the aim to create a scalable platform for automated driving.

The BMW Group and Daimler AG will also explore additional partnerships with other technology companies and automotive manufacturers that could contribute to the success of the platform.


Beefed-up VW Golf GTi 8 comes hard on the heels of revamped hatchback

                WOLFSBURG: Volkswagen's popular Golf 8 hatchback is due out in mid-2019 and hard on its heels will be the hottest-ever GTI-badged version, the German Autobild car magazine reports.

The GTI retains its racy looks with bright red trim applications, twin exhausts and a rear spoiler in order to distinguish it from humbler models in the range. It seems the big changes are under the bonnet.

Customers will be able to order the GTI with up to 300hp which is a major gain over the maximum 245-horse version currently available.

Power will come from an uprated version of the turbocharged 2-litre engine in the current Golf 7 version. The power unit is also used in the Golf R performance variant.

Pundits said the power boost for the genre-defining hot hatch is a response to similar sporty offerings from other makers with more performance on tap.

Inside the GTI gets a high level of connectivity, with a new digital dash and state-of-the-art infotainment. The car may even have a lap timer and acceleration metres for owners who want to test their car on race circuits, said Autobild.

Volkswagen has said the Golf 8 will "set new standards" when it bows in officially later this year although the look and feel of the car will be largely the same as before.

The GTI version traditionally follows several months later.


Volvo V90 wagon to be introduced on Feb 18

 Duett.

GOTHENBURG: Following the debut of the S90 at the Detroit auto show last month, Volvo is planning to roll out the V90 wagon in Stockholm on Feb 18.

The V90 is a car that benefits from over 60 years of estate building heritage that started with the Volvo Duett which was launched in 1953 – the first car to meet the combined needs of drivers’ active leisure time and practical professional lives.

Since that day, Volvo has sold more than 6 million estates worldwide, representing around a third of the total number of Volvos sold since the company’s foundation in 1927, giving it a reputation for designing and building the ultimate family estates.

 Volvo 245.

“We have provenance in the estate segment,” said Håkan Samuelsson, chief executive at Volvo Cars. “In many people’s minds we are known as the definitive estate brand. While the Volvo brand stands for much more than just estates, we will proudly carry forward this rich heritage with the V90.”

Based on the same Scalable Product Architecture (SPA) as its XC90 and S90 siblings, the V90 is the estate version of the S90 sedan.

Since the Duett, Volvo wagons that followed were the Amazon (221), 1800 ES, 245, 960 and 850 T5-R.


Geely's EV maker Polestar plans new plant for Precept model

                BEIJING: Polestar, the performance electric vehicle maker based in Sweden and owned by China’s Geely, plans to build its Precept electric sedan in China at a new factory, its CEO said on Saturday.

Polestar’s CEO Thomas Ingenlath, who is one of the few international executives to attend the Beijing International Automotive Exhibition 2020 after a 14-day compulsory quarantine upon his arrival in China, made the remarks at an event at the auto show.

Polestar will build a manufacturing facility for the model in China, the world’s biggest auto market.

The automaker started producing its Polestar 2 sedans this year in China and sells them in China, Europe and the United States.

Ingenlath said last week that Polestar also plans to expand its sales network and is looking at new markets in the Asia Pacific region and the Middle East.


Jaguar F-Type replacement to be electrified

                LONDON: These days, news of car makers announcing electrified models is becoming the new normal. Such is the case with Jaguar, which has indicated that the successor to the F-Type will be electrified.

Jaguar Land Rover's North America CEO Joe Eberhardt said the new car will have an electrified powertrain. "Every new car launched after 2020 will have some form of electrification. That is full electric, plug-in hybrid or mild hybrids."

Jaguar sold 2,787 units of the F-Type through August of this year, which is some 41 more than were sold during the same period last year. However, according to JATO Dynamics, sales of the F-Type in Europe dropped by 0.5 percent to 2,992 units sold through July this year.

The F-Type was introduced in 2013. Recent industry developments and trends mean today's models will probably have a shorter shelf life than their predecessors, so the current F-Type might not be with us as long as we may have normally expected.

Ian Callum, who has led the Jaguar design team now since 1999, wouldn't be drawn on when the F-Type would be replaced.

Speaking to the Automotive News publication, Callum said, "We will do another range of sports cars eventually."

"There are a number of people in the world who think sports cars are finished because SUVs can get around a corner as quick as a sports car can, technology being what it is,” he added.

“But there is something very emotional about a sports car that conveys the ultimate in the sense of performance and design."


One-off Peugeot 3008 tackles northern Ho Chi Minh trail

                HANOI: Peugeot created a one-off adventure concept of its 3008 sport utility vehicle (SUV) which managed to successfully tackle the northern section of the iconic Ho Chi Minh trail in Vietnam.

Based on the 1.6-litre PureTech GT Line model, this 3008 has been fitted with 17-inch steel wheels wrapped by Cooper AT3 off-road tyres.

Beneath it, there's underbody protection which includes a front skid plate,

A powerful LED bar with plenty of lumens provides all the necessary illumination when the sun goes down and is installed at the front of the Rival aluminium roof rack with a fully retractable ARB Simpson roof tent for 3008's occupants to rest their weary heads.

The one-off model is then finished in a unique wrap and fitted with a bicycle rack with a Peugeot trail bike for some two-wheeled adventures.

“This one-off model exemplifies the practicality and off-road ability of our best-selling SUV. With relatively minor modifications, the 3008 has tackled some tough terrain, proving the effectiveness of its Advanced Grip Control technology and demonstrating its true outdoor potential,” said Peugeot UK managing director David Peel.


Protest in Madrid as conservatives suspend ban on most polluting cars

Traffic in Barcelona city.
MADRID: Thousands protested here on Saturday against the suspension of curbs on polluting cars by the new conservative city hall, raising fears that environmental rollbacks seen in the United States may be spreading to Europe.

The first reversal of environmental policies by a major European city comes despite soaring global environmental concerns and is a fresh sign of growing divisions in Spain after a series of inconclusive elections in April and May.

Last November, Madrid’s then far-left government banned most petrol and diesel cars from its center to tackle high levels of nitrogen dioxide. The policy was known as “Madrid central” and it was intended to bring Madrid into line with EU clean air rules which it had been violating since 2010.

“Yes we can, I do want Madrid central,” chanted the protesters. Some were holding banners that read “I want to breathe free” and “We aspire to have a Madrid without smoke”.

“We have to save (the planet) starting at the local and small level, the first thing is Madrid’s center,” said Laura Martin, a 39-year-old actress.

She added that she was concerned that the new Madrid government might have some similar ideas to US President Donald Trump’s rollback of environmental policies, such as weakening rules limiting carbon emissions from power plants and standards on harmful gas emissions from cars and trucks.

People of all ages rallied despite a scorching heatwave in Spain and most of Europe, which had already forced the city of Paris to ban more than half of all registered cars from its roads earlier this week because the heat worsens pollution.

Various European cities including Paris, Hamburg, Amsterdam, London and Oslo have started to penalise or ban older polluting cars as they seek to phase out all fossil fuel cars in the coming decade.

Environmental groups including Greenpeace say the “Madrid central” measure slashed air pollution levels from car emissions in the center to record lows.

The new city hall run by the conservative People’s Party suspended fines on cars entering the currently restricted area of around five sq km (two sq miles) from July 1, while it reviews the plan to make it “compatible with citizens’ mobility needs”.

“As far as I know at the European level there’s no precedent in ending a car traffic restriction,” said Lara Lazaro, researcher of the Real Instituto Elcano.

The European Commision has warned Spain that it would face sanctions and a possible lawsuit if it fails to meet air quality standards in its largest cities of Madrid and Barcelona.


Conditional MCO: Up to three people per car now allowed

                PUTRAJAYA: Up to three people per car are now allowed for those in areas under conditional MCO, says Senior Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob.

The Defence Minister said the National Security Council special meeting had heard views and requests from the public to allow more than two people in a vehicle.

“We deliberated on the issue as there have been complaints and suggestions by some for the government to relax the ruling.

“So today, the NSC has decided to allow three people to travel in a car. This ruling will take immediate effect, ” he said today.

Among standard operating procedures in conditional MCO areas is that only two persons from the same house are allowed to go out to get essential items.

All states in the peninsula, except for Perlis, Pahang and Kelantan, are under a conditional MCO due to the rise in Covid-19 cases.

Sabah, Labuan, Kuala Lumpur and Putrajaya are also under the order.

Ismail Sabri said when the two-in-a-car ruling was in effect, police had the discretion to allow more people to travel together.

He cited instances such as children taking their aged parents for medical services and couples with young children going to supermarkets where police could allow more than two people in a car.

“However, police found that it was not easy to exercise this discretion. So we have decided to allow three people in a car now, ” said Ismail Sabri.


Citroen Grand C4 Picasso - Plenty of space and go

                Futuristic. It’s how best to describe the seven-seater Citroen Grand C4 Picasso multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) that comes with a punchy engine with a surprising amount of safety, hi-tech fitment and comfort.

The Grand C4 Picasso may possess the usual MPV one-box silhouette, but grabs attention to the unconventionally styled front and rear that instantly transforms the overall look into almost something out of a science-fiction graphic novel.

It isn’t something that deserves a glance and simply be content with, because – if anything, it should be treated like a glass of wine that’s sipped at and slowly appreciated - allowing the palate to savour the notes and nuances of its offerings till its fleeting end as it slowly trickles down the gullet.

The Grand C4 Picasso’s split-faced design has its LED daytime running lights sitting on the same line flanking the logo, while the main headlights are located just below and the fog lamps just below that.

At the rear, there are the intricately designed twin three-dimensional brake lights that the French carmaker has come up with to help the Grand C4 Picasso take a few steps from being the run-off-the-mill to ultra-contemporary.

Although the MPV will fit five conveniently, it’s more realistic to say that the third row seats, which – by the way, can easily pop-up from under the floorboard, are more suitable for children or young adults.

Furthermore, the second row of seats can be individually slid back and forth as well as reclined – allowing the already generous 632 litres of boot space to be expanded to 793.

But if a flatbed is needed, the second row nicely folds down into the floorboard as well to help fit bulkier items and with the inclusion of a powered tailgate, it definitely adds a nice touch of convenience to this spacious vehicle.

Overall, the interior feels grand with leather upholstery while the driver and front passenger get electrically adjustable seats with a massage function for the driver and a fully recline-able one with an electrically extendable foot rest for the front passenger.

The edges of the headrests can be folded inwards to embrace the head like those on airline seats.

The driver gets a very commanding view ahead as the 12- and seven-inch screens adds colour and character to the cabin.

There’s simply a lot of glass real estate, for better visibility no-doubt, but thankfully the French carmaker has included blinds into the rear door inserts.

If anyone finds the Grand C4 Picasso a handful to park, there’s Park Assist to provide handsfree parking - all the driver needs to do is select which side the parking bay is located by indicating left or right and then choosing parallel or reverse parking – exiting a parallel parking lot is also available.

Being in this neck of the woods, it’s still a little difficult to quell the tropical heat effectively with just perforated blinds and shades but there are air conditioner vents on the B-pillars to help with air circulation.

Be it adults or minors, a convenient foldable tray table has been fitted behind the front seats that should fit a mini laptop, a few cups and perhaps a few choice selection of snacks for long haul journeys.

It seems the Grand C4 Picasso has more style than cup holders or stowage compartments, while they’ve moved the steering wheel to the right for us, the fuse box has not followed and is currently a resident of the glove compartment - which means little or nothing gets in there.

Furthermore, the twin cup holder along the central tunnel just weren’t able to properly fit two large takeaway cups of coffee and to rectify that, it was instead relegated to stowing the house keys, office tag and the mobile phone.

Citroen has opted for a gear lever that’s placed just behind the steering wheel, and while it was thought to be relatively ergonomic in placing, it didn’t stop the left hand from flailing about in search of the usual gear knob thanks to muscle memory.

With a kerb weight of 1,320kg, the Grand C4 Picasso comes with an EAT6 six-speed automatic gearbox that’s been mated to the 1.6-litre e-THP (Turbo High Pressure) engine churning out 160bhp at 6,000rpm and 240Nm of torque from 1,400rpm onwards.

Overall, the e-THP engine is a smooth operator that’s able to adapt to throttle inputs while driver assistance features such as Lane Departure Warning, Blind Spot Monitoring System and Active Cruise Control add to safer driving.

The suspension does well to take on shocks and in keeping the MPV well and truly stable when pushing it around the bends, but it still needs a little more refinement by displaying a choppy disposition when going over uneven surfaces at low speeds.

With an electric power steering system, which was sincerely a pleasure to use, there was still that inherent disconnect from the road when compared to the usual hydraulics steering system that keeps the driver more informed and connected to the road.

It’s obvious it was built for long haul travels, able to soak up the highway’s undulations and the ability to travel up to a top speed of 201kph.


Scania Southeast Asia names Heba Eltarifi as new MD

                SHAH ALAM: Scania Southeast Asia has appointed Heba Eltarifi as its new managing director based in Malaysia.

She took on the role from Jan 1 this year as Scania marks 50 years in Malaysia.

She was previously the chief financial officer at Scania Australia.

Responsible for the finance and IT Procurement departments in Australia, as well as for commercial operations such as used truck sales and truck rental, Heba has enjoyed a wide range of experiences within the business over the past two decades.

She holds a Bachelor of Commerce degree, Diploma of FEM Executive Management Program from Stockholm School of Economics and is a Certified Practising Accountant. She is married with one child.

“Scania will continue to support the logistics, construction and public service sectors, commuting people and goods every day throughout the region and in this country," said Heba.

“The timing cannot be any more challenging than the economic impact that our customers are facing throughout the region due to the pandemic. I am confident that my team and I will continue to pull through and come out stronger than ever for them.”

Scania Southeast Asia is a business unit with its head office in Malaysia. It supports Malaysia and Singapore markets with dedicated sales and services centres. For the markets in Vietnam, Myanmar, Philippines, Brunei and Cambodia, the support is provided by authorised private dealers.

In Malaysia, Scania started in 1971 with the first Scania LB110 truck’s arrival at Port Klang, delivered to Kontena Nasional.

Local assembly of trucks and buses began in 1994.


Megane E-Tech: Renault debuts electric compact crossover

                MUNICH: Renault was at the forefront of the electric revolution with the little Zoe, but the competition has since caught up. The Megane E-Tech crossover is now intended to help the French manufacturer regain its lead.

Electric mobility is now entering its second round at Renault with the next electric developed specifically for e-mobility, almost 10 years after the premiere of the Zoe.

The compact Megane E-Tech was developed on its own CMF-EV battery platform and is making its debut at the IAA car show in Munich before going on sale next year, the manufacturer has announced.

However, the current Megane with conventional engines will still be offered in parallel for the time being, Renault says. The electric model essentially only shares the name - even the Renault logo has been redesigned.

Designed as a crossover, the Megane E-Tech measures 4.21 metres and is more than a hand's breadth taller than its namesake. According to Renault, it offers significantly more space inside and also has a more modern cockpit with larger screens and more options for controlling various media and apps.

Under the hood, Renault initially relies on two variants of a front-mounted electrically excited synchronous motor with 130 or 218 horsepower. With these, sprint times of 7.4 seconds at best are possible.

The all-new electric motor, developed withing the Renault–Nissan–Mitsubishi Alliance, boasts better power output compared to permanent magnet motors and doesn’t require rare earth metals, thereby reducing the environmental impact and cost of large-scale production.

The top speed is limited to 160kph. The engines are powered by 40 or 60 kWh batteries. Charged with up to 130 kW, this enables a standard range of 300km for the small battery and up to 470km for the large battery, according to the manufacturer.


ZF may eclipse Continental in reinvention race during EV shift

                FRANKFURT: ZF Friedrichshafen AG is poised to overtake Continental AG as the auto-parts rivals navigate fierce headwinds to tackle the disruptive shift to electric and self-driving vehicles.

The German supplier to the likes of BMW AG and Porsche met its profit-margin target last year amid a double-digit jump in revenue, even as the further fallout from the Covid-19 pandemic and major supply shortages weighed on the industry.

"It was an exceptionally challenging year for our company,” chief executive officer Wolf-Henning Scheider said in an interview at ZF’s headquarters overlooking Lake Constance.

"We could have generated more revenue, but growth was held back by headwinds like the chip shortage, rising raw material costs or much higher freight rates.”

Revenue last year rose by at least 10% and the operating profit margin was between 4.5% to 5.5%, Scheider said. The privately-held engineering group will report detailed full-year earnings on March 17.

The rise indicates revenue of about 36 billion euros or higher, which would exceed Continental’s targeted sales of as much as 33.5 billion euros for 2021.

Continental lowered its outlook in October and last year separated its powertrain operations.

Tracing its origins back to airship pioneer Ferdinand von Zeppelin, the company is under pressure to pivot to the electric and self-driving age.

ZF specialises in making high-performance transmissions for upscale combustion cars, a component that risks becoming gradually obsolete in the move to battery-powered vehicles.

As companies navigate the shift, early radical decisions have been rewarded.

US supplier Delphi in 2017 spun off its powertrain business to focus on its autonomous vehicle efforts. Aptiv Plc now has a market value of nearly US$40 billion, while Sweden’s autoliv Inc. in 2018 separated its electronics unit that now trades as Veoneer Inc.

In contrast, Continental took until last year to carve out its powertrain business with its share price more than halving since 2018.

ZF catapulted itself into the upper echelons of global automotive suppliers with the US$12.9 billion acquisition of TRW automotive to focus on electric-vehicle components and safety systems.

In 2020, it bought Wabco Holdings Inc. in a US$7 billion deal to add commercial-vehicle technology. The company has stopped allocating funds to the development of new combustion-engine technology two years ago.

ZF remains "open towards acquisitions, even if in the next 3 to 4 years they might not be on a scale like the Wabco deal,” Scheider said, while divestments are an option too.

"We review our portfolio continuously to see if we’re still the best owner for a business unit.”

Incorporating Wabco forced ZF to weigh painful restructuring decisions to cut costs when the Covid-19 pandemic erupted at the same time.

Labour unions warned global headcount might be cut by as many as 15,000 people, roughly 10% of the workforce.

Management had signalled cutbacks might be needed to reduce the risk of breaching credit covenant agreements.

The talks over headcount reductions and the future of factories have progressed but aren’t finalised entirely yet, Scheider said, expecting headwinds including the ongoing chip shortage to last for some time.

"New technology like electric mobility, autonomous driving or software offer more revenue potential for ZF than we generate with existing technology,” Scheider said.

"Our business in 2030 should be bigger than now.”


When it comes to cleaning your car, what's on the inside counts

                BERLIN: Crumbs get in the seat cracks, there's mud on the floor, and dust. Lots of dust: A car's interior can get just as filthy as the exterior and needs a cleaning once in a while.

For a professional-level cleaning, you need just a few basic products and a couple of hours set aside for cleaning and letting the interior fully dry, according to the experts.

First and foremost, do not use any cleaners that contain alcohol, says the Automobile Club of Germany (AvD). The plastics and Plexiglass in your car's interior, not to mention the soft coatings on surfaces, can become dull and cracked.

Alcohol-free window cleaners are perfect for cleaning your car's windows, while other interior surfaces, such as the centre console or door moulding, should be wiped down with a microfibre cloth that's been moistened with warm, soapy water.

A vacuum can be used to suck up any crumbs or dirt in the seats and any other cracks. Floor mats should be taken out and shaken, then wiped down with water and a foam cleaner.

If your car has leather upholstery or a leather steering wheel, the AvD recommends being sparing with leather care products.

To get rid of any residual odour after you've cleaned, just place a bowl of freshly ground coffee in the car overnight.


Hyper-Fast and Ultra-Fast: Charging info made simple for EV owners of America

                WASHINGTON: Electrify America and Electrify Canada have announced that they will establish two power names of Hyper-Fast for 350 kilowatt (kW) chargers and Ultra-Fast for 150 kilowatt chargers in an effort to simplify the charging experience for both new and existing electric vehicle (EV) customers.

The companies are making this new naming convention available to all charging providers to help set a universal standard.

The Hyper-Fast and Ultra-Fast names will appear on newly redesigned labels on chargers across the Electrify America and Electrify Canada networks, to convey available charge power in a simple, easy-to-understand way.

The companies pioneered the availability of the fastest charging speeds available today at up to 150kW and 350kW, which have become a standard in the industry for publicly available charging.

The new labels will feature two maximum power descriptions with bold, eye-catching colours for easier recognition:

> Hyper-Fast: Indicates power delivery of up to 350kW, which can provide about 30km of driving range per minute of charging depending on the EV’s charging capability. (Green label & three bolt icons):

> Ultra-Fast: Indicates power delivery of up to 150kW, which can provide about 15km of driving range per minute of charging depending on the EV’s charging capability. (Teal label & two bolt icons)

“We want to help make the transition to EV charging easier by translating kilowatt ratings into simpler names like Hyper-Fast and Ultra-Fast with corresponding colours to help them make a selection at the charger,” said Robert Barrosa, senior director, sales, business development and marketing of Electrify America and Electrify Canada.

“As EV sales continue to grow, it’s important that we continue to educate everyone on how easy public charging can be, ensuring consumer comfort with making the switch. It should not require a calculator to figure out what charger’s power output may best match the capabilities of their EV.”


Ford offering Raya goodies

                PETALING JAYA: In conjunction with the upcoming Raya festivities, Ford and local distributor Sime Darby Auto Connexion (SDAC) today announced attractive cash rebates of up to RM12,000 on select models nationwide through July 31.

Customers can choose between cash rebates – up to RM12,000 for the Fiesta, up to RM10,000 for the Focus, and up to RM8,000 for the EcoSport – or 0% interest for up to five years.

Buyers who confirm their bookings through July 31 will also receive exclusive Ford merchandise, while stocks last.

 EcoSport.

In addition to this Raya sales promotion, Ford is offering all customers a free 27-point vehicle health check by Ford-certified technicians to promote safe travel this festive season.

Select Ford models are also eligible for discounts of 10% on parts and labour charges with brakes and timing belt packages, while those who choose ‘The Works Fuel Saver Package’ can enjoy a 15% discount on Motorcraft and Castrol engine oils and oil filters, and a 10% discount on labour.

“As part of our commitment to bring customers closer at every opportunity, we’re pleased to offer cash rebates, promotions and service discounts, so more Malaysians can travel home safely and in style,” said Sime Darby Auto Connexion managing director Lee Eu San.

To qualify for these offers, customers simply need to register for an e-mail coupon at www.fordconsumer.com and present it at any authorised Ford service centre.

 Focus.


Toyota 86 revised and improved

                TOKYO: The revised Toyota 86 front engine, rear wheel drive sports car has improved aerodynamics, and a few other enhancements.

These include linear torque from low engine speeds through improved intake and exhaust systems (manual transmission models), and outstanding steering stability due to reworked shock absorber valve structures.

It also features the smallest-diameter steering wheel ever made by Toyota as well as a 4.2-inch TFT color multi-information display (equipped as standard on the GT Limited and GT models).

The 2.0-litre boxer engine has a maximum output of 207ps at 7,000rpm and 212Nm at 6,400 to 6,800rpm with a 6-speed manual transmission.

With a 6-speed Super ECT (Electronically Controlled Transmission), the car outputs 200ps at 7,000rpm and 205Nm at 6,400 to 6,600rpm.

A wing-type rear spoiler is equipped as standard on the GT Limited model.

Bi-Beam LED headlamps are equipped as standard on all models while LED front fog-lamps are standard on the GT Limited and GT models.

The 86 features 17-inch aluminum wheels (equipped as standard on the GT Limited and GT models) with machine-cut highlights and gun-metallic paint.

The 86 features a steering wheel with a diameter of 362mm ― the smallest ever used in a Toyota―with a cross-sectional shape that provides an optimal grip.

Chief Engineer Tetsuya Tada, who is currently in charge of development on the 86, commented: "We overhauled everything ― primarily as a result of technological feedback from the 86's participation in the 24 Hours of Nurburgring."


Smart is ready for the future

                PETALING JAYA: With the Smart #1 electric car set to launch in Malaysia in the last quarter of 2023, local distributor Proton New Energy Technology (Pro-Net) has begun to hasten the drum beat to build public awareness about the battery electric car.

While the Smart brand of the 1990s started out as a maker and purveyor of microcars and subcompacts under the aegis of Mercedes-Benz, the latest one is bigger and has become an electric SUV, the result of a joint venture with China's Zhejiang Geely Holding Group.

Pro-Net aims to shape a premium ownership experience for Smart buyers.

The approach would be multi-faceted: a specially designed Smart space to engage with customers and prospects; Smart 3S centres to better serve car owners; and a Smart app to provide a holistic digital journey for car owners as they could use it to make service appointments and browse for the nearest charging station, among other benefits.

Pro-Net is also looking at improving the charging infrastructure. It is working with Gentari to add more public charging stations in the country.

Initial plans call for the building of 20 DC chargers in 2023, with more to come by 2025. Pro-Net, a Proton subsidiary, would provide the space and power supply, while Gentari would install and operate the chargers under an agreement between the two parties.

The first charging station would be installed at the Proton Centre of Excellence HQ in Subang Jaya, while Smart dealers’ outlets would also be equipped with charging stations.

Pro-net has been on a hiring spree to build out its sales and aftersales networks in preparation for the arrival of the premium Smart #1.

It is appointing qualified dealers in the Northern, Central and Southern Region of the peninsula.

Beginning from 1997, Smart brand pioneered the creation and innovation of urban mobility.

In 2019, Smart became the world's first car maker to switch completely from a combustion engine to electric drive only.

With Mercedes-Benz and Geely joining forces (and resources) in 2019, they are developing Smart into a global provider of connected, battery-electric premium vehicles.

Geely's global engineering network handles the engineering and development of new models; Mercedes-Benz designs the interior and exterior.

In September 2021, the Smart Concept #1 was showcased at IAA Mobility 2021 in Munich, and it was to be the precursor of the Smart #1. Six months later on April 8, 2022, the Smart #1 made its world premiere in Berlin.

In China, where superlatives reigned, 10,000 bookings were recorded in the first 24 hours when the order books were opened on April 27.

More positive news came on Nov 16 when the Smart #1 earned a five-star Euro NCAP safety rating.

It has been less than a year since the Smart #1 arrived on the world stage and already the stylish electric SUV has won multiple other awards and recognition in China and around the globe.

The Smart is produced in Ningbo, China. More models in the small- and compact-car segment are expected to be introduced in the coming years.

READ MORE:Smart #1: Designed to be the cool and trendy EV
Next model is another SUV called smart #3


Detroit auto show tries to reclaim past glory

                DETROIT: Trying to reclaim its past glory as the world's pre-eminent event, the Detroit auto show kicks off today with shiny, new cars displayed against a gloomy outlook for the industry.

American, Asian and European auto makers will try to ramp up the excitement, showcasing their latest offerings at the event starting next week at the massive Cobo convention center in downtown Detroit.

But several major brands were skipping the show altogether, while others were reducing their presence — something unheard of in years past when the event was impossible to miss.

And analysts said they expect few headline-grabbing announcements.

The dwindling interest was expected to bring a subdued air to the annual gathering organised by North America's car dealers, which are fresh off a year of sales growth but facing what analysts expect will be a gloomy 2019.

"The Detroit show historically included great anticipation around new products, designs, features and power trains. This year? Not so much," industry analyst Adam Jonas of Morgan Stanley said in an investor note.

Not only are American car makers reducing their footprint at the show, major German manufacturers, with the exception of Volkswagen, will be completely absent.

The show has been losing a battle with a far bigger and more enticing conference held in Las Vegas in January — the Consumer Electronics Show (CES), where car makers have been making important announcements in recent years.

Rising prices for steel and aluminum, a consequence of steep tariffs the United States has imposed on major trading partners, are squeezing bottom lines.

And an economic slowdown in China is threatening consumer spending on big-ticket items, while rising US interest rates and car prices are making monthly payments more expensive and new cars less attractive.

Jonas also predicted car companies would announce lower profit forecasts, as the industry is mired in an uncertain global economic and political climate.

Gloomy sales forecasts

North American consumers have been on a car buying binge for several years, but even here the makeup has changed, favouring trucks and SUVs with dwindling sales for smaller models.

Sales rose 1.8 percent in 2018 compared to the previous year, for a total of 17.3 million vehicles.

But sales growth last year was helped by massive US tax cuts and those effects are expected to wane in 2019, said Jonathan Smoke, chief economist for Cox Automotive.

"While 2018 was a very strong year for both the economy and vehicle sales, it will be nearly impossible to repeat," Smoke said in an analysis.

As a result, car makers were expected to pull back spending. Some could examine the need for plants producing out-of-favor small cars and sedans, said industry analyst Jessica Caldwell of Edmunds.

GM already announced plans for plant closures and layoffs, and could slash costs further. Ford also plans to reduce its global workforce, and other major brands could be next. Tens of thousands of jobs are at stake around the world.

GM was to hold an investors conference Friday, when CEO Mary Barra will announce the company's financial targets for 2019.

'Less exciting'

Perhaps a symptom of the Detroit show's fall from grace, the GM conference, traditionally held at the auto show ever year, will instead be in New York.

The Detroit auto show "has become less exciting, it is not the highlight of the auto shows anymore," Caldwell said. "There is no big marquee product that everyone will be talking about."

However, Ford and Germany's Volkswagen are expected to announce a strategic alliance, including autonomous and electric cars, at the show on Tuesday, said a source familiar with the matter.

That alliance between auto giants will be closely watched, especially after Ford's decision last year to phase out many sedan models in North America.

Organisers are moving the Detroit show to June, hoping it will help revitalise interest. This year's 30th anniversary gathering will be the last held in winter.

The show still attracts nearly a million people every year, and organizers hope to build on its popularity.

Brian Moody of the car search site Autotrader says the Detroit auto show is still relevant, because it is where the most consumer-ready technologies are revealed.

"They are going to display technologies that have a little more practical usages," Moody said. "It's the kind of things that you can see and have today."

The North American International Auto Show opens today in Detroit — first to the press, and then to the general public Jan 19-27.


McLaren 620R adds an R Pack

                LONDON: The McLaren 620R can now be ordered with an exclusive ‘R Pack’ from the McLaren Special Operations (MSO) bespoke division.

This optional package, available to customers in Europe, Middle East and Africa, includes several design and engineering upgrades that further intensify the immersive driving experience of the most track-focused and powerful Sports Series model ever.

The R Pack includes a Gloss Finish Visual Carbon Fibre Roof Scoop; Titanium SuperSports Exhaust with Gloss Nano Black finishers; Gloss Finish Visual Carbon Fibre Front Fender Louvres and a Carbon Fibre Interior Pack.

The striking Gloss Finish Visual Carbon Fibre Roof Scoop was inspired by the legendary McLaren F1 Longtail and operates as a fully functional air intake system that invigorates the driving experience with its active air induction sound.

The Roof Scoop can also feature a camera, which operates in conjunction with the McLaren Track Telemetry (MTT) system to record the epic track sessions of the most passionate owners.

Enhancing driver engagement further, the MSO Defined Titanium SuperSports Exhaust is up to 5 decibels louder than other Sports Series exhaust options and delivers a sharper and more characterful exhaust note.

The MSO Defined Gloss Finish Visual Carbon Fibre Front Fender Louvres provide a striking visual enhancement at the front of the 620R, while a Carbon Fibre Interior Pack complements the purposeful and track-inspired interior of the vehicle.

The McLaren 620R is the first car in its class to offer true motorsport credentials in a fully road-legal package. The limited-edition coupé evolves the competition specification of the McLaren 570S GT4 to deliver a pure motorsport experience in a road car and providing a seamless transition from race to road that is free from any restrictions that race regulations apply.

Power is delivered by a M838TE 3.8-litre twin-turbo V8 engine used in McLaren 570S GT4 car, which has been reconfigured to achieve 620PS and develops 620Nm of torque, making the 620R the most powerful Sports Series derivative ever, with acceleration of 0-100kph in 2.9 seconds and 0-200kph in 8.1 seconds.


Woman's car loses all four tyres in theft in front of home

                KEPALA BATAS: A woman’s car was stripped of its tyres near her Penaga house here on Monday.

Photos of the woman’s car missing all four tyres went viral on social media and the woman subsequently made a police report on Tuesday after her neighbour told her about it.

North Seberang Prai OCPD Asst Comm Noorzainy Mohd Noor said the victim had parked the car outside her house as there was no more space within her property.

“The victim said their car was also equipped with an alarm system but there were no sensors on the tyres. They had a CCTV in front of their house and we checked the footage, but the suspect’s face was unclear, ” he said.

“We hope the public would be cautious and at the same time refrain from making such news viral on social media as this would raise concerns, ” added ACP Noorzainy.


VW labour boss wants faster electric car rollout at Wolfsburg, says paper

                BERLIN: The head of Volkswagen's works council wants the carmaker to bring forward production of electric vehicles at its main plant in Wolfsburg to 2024 make it more competitive, a newspaper reported today.

The Braunschweiger Zeitung quoted works council chief Daniela Cavallo as saying a global chip shortage and the Covid-19 pandemic were reducing output at the plant this year and it needed to make a new model to secure its competitiveness.

"The site needs a faster path to e-mobility," the newspaper quoted Cavallo as saying, adding this should happed in 2024.

Under its Trinity project, VW has been developing a flagship electric sedan to be built at Wolfsburg from 2026.

Producing electric vehicles in Wolfsburg sooner would address capacity use issues that are causing fears in the workforce at the plant, where workers are on "Kurzarbeit" reduced-hours shifts, the paper reported Cavallo as saying.


All-new 11th generation Honda Civic launched from RM125,600

                KUALA LUMPUR: Honda Malaysia has finally launched the all-new Honda Civic after organising a media teaser drive at the Sepang International Circuit in mid-December.

This new 11th-generation model, which is also bigger and more spacious, is expected to maintain the nameplate's No. 1 position in the C-segment market.

The four-door sedan is available in three variants of E, V and RS, priced at RM125,634, RM138,043 and RM144,350 respectively.

Prices are on-the road without insurance but with sales tax exemption.

Compared with the 10th-generation model which was introduced locally in 2016, the latest edition is 30mm longer, 3mm wider and 1mm lower.

The new model's wheelbase is also longer at 35mm.

The new Civic is now more elegant looking while still retaining a large portion of its athletic and low-slung looks.

READ MORE: Tomoyuki Yamagami sheds light on new Honda Civic development

The car comes with newly designed LED headlights with LED daytime running lights and new rear LED combination lights that are sporty-looking and stylish.

The Civic is built using "laser brazing" technology for the first time, giving it a smooth and clean roofline for a sleeker appearance.

In addition, the body rigidity has been increased compared with the previous generation Civic for better handling and ride comfort.

Inside, the new Civic gets higher levels of visibility with an open feeling of spaciousness, achieved through an expanded glass area.

Its dashboard now features a honeycomb mesh panel that exudes a premium feel and touch.

The 1.8-litre naturally aspirated engine has been axed in favour of using an improved 1.5-litre turbocharged engine for all three variants.

The 1.5-litre turbocharged VTEC engine, coupled to a continuous variable transmission, now delivers more performance at 182PS and 240Nm of torque compared with the 10th-generation Civic.

The new Civic's Drive Mode Switch allows the driver to select his preferred modes of ECON, Normal and Sport.

Standard items are Smart Clear Wiper, Walk Away Auto Lock, Smart Entry with Push Start Button, rear air-conditioner vents, seven-inch TFT meter cluster, six airbags, rear seat belt reminder, leather steering wheel with audio controls, and Bluetooth with AppleCarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, among others.

Also included are Driver Attention Monitor, Vehicle Stability Assist, Hill Start Assist, Emergency Stop Signal, Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Brake Distribution and Auto Brake Hold.

The new Civic also comes with the Honda Sensing suite of smart driving aid system that has been refined for smoother operation and now gets a new feature of Lead Car Departure Notification System.

The feature is the first equipped in Honda Malaysia’s model line-up where it will alert a non-attentive driver who has stopped at the traffic lights that the vehicle in front of him has departed.

Other regular Honda Sensing features are Adaptive Cruise Control, Low Speed Follow, Collision Mitigation Braking System, Forward Collision Warning, Lane Keep Assist System, Road Departure Mitigation, Lane Departure Warning and Auto High Beam.

The E variant is offered with fabric seats, seven-inch audio display, four speakers, reverse camera, one USB port, two rear USB chargers, front roof ambient light, front and rear parking sensors and 16-inch wheels.

The V variant is improved with leather seats, two USB ports, eight speakers, wireless Apple CarPlay Connectivity, nine-inch Advanced audio display, eight speakers, 17-inch wheels, Honda LaneWatch camera and Honda Connect telematics systems.

Honda LaneWatch camera allows the driver to have a wider left rear view through a camera, while Honda Connect provides access to some of the Civic's safety, security and convenience features remotely through a handphone app.

The RS comes with additional items such as combination leather seats and leather steering wheel with red stitching, black headlining, sport pedals and foot lamp.

The top-of-the-line variant also gets RS exclusive exterior features such as side mirrors, shark fin antenna, outer door handles and trunk spoiler painted in black.

Meanwhile, the RS' twin tailpipe with chrome finisher and 18-inch matt black alloy wheels heighten its sporty  flair.

Two new colours of Ignite Red Metallic and Meteoroid Gray Metallic join the current offering of Platinum White Pearl, Lunar Silver Metallic and Crystal Black Pearl.

Honda  Malaysia managing director and chief executive officer Madoka Chujo said the company is is aiming to sell 900 units per month of the new Civic.

She sad the company had received strong pre-launch bookings of 1,200 units for the new Civic. Chujo (right) with Honda Malaysia president and chief operating officer Sarly Adle Sarkum at the launch of the new Civic.
“This model is a modern interpretation of the classic and timeless human-centred Honda values, with a new design concept that exudes a New Age Identity sedan.

“Packed to the brim with advanced features while keeping true to the Civic DNA styling, handling and powerful performance - the 11th-generation all-new Civic is truly built and powered by Passion, inspired by a strong Legacy and built for the Future,” she said.


Lexus premieres 2021 IS sports sedan

                TOKYO: Lexus today held an online world premiere of the new Lexus IS compact rear-wheel-drive sports sedan.

The new IS is billed as delivering better maneuverability and riding comfort, honed at Toyota Technical Center Shimoyama.

"What we had foremost in mind in developing the new IS was to make it a car that excelled in communicating with the driver. We aimed to make the new IS a Lexus compact sports sedan that provides high-quality riding comfort while offering a high level of vehicle control," said Lexus International chief engineer Naoki Kobayashi.

Body rigidity was enhanced, and the 2.0-litre turbo version features adaptive transmission control that evaluates the driving environment based on factors such as the depression of the accelerator by the driver, and selects the most-appropriate gear.

A new Spindle Grille features a three-dimensional, polyhedral structure while the F Sport version boasts an exclusive "F" mesh pattern.

Also, while retaining a single-lens camera and millimeter-wave radar used in the Lexus Safety System+, Lexus has added functions such as Emergency Steering Assist and has improved the system's lane recognition performance.

The performance of the single-lens camera and millimeter-wave radar has been improved to expand the response range of the Pre-Collision System, which is designed to detect daytime bicyclists and pedestrians in low-light conditions and, at intersections, to detect oncoming vehicles before right turns and pedestrians crossing the street from the direction toward which the vehicle was traveling before it started to make a right or left turn.

Also featured are functions such as Emergency Steering Assist, which assists steering within the vehicle's lane as cued by the driver, and Low Speed Acceleration Control which supports the prevention of collisions caused by pedal misapplication at times of reduced speed.

Dynamic Radar Cruise Control and Lane Tracing Assist (LTA) combine to make it easier for the driver to keep in the current lane on a motor-vehicle-only roadway, etc.

If the system detects a potential lane departure, LTA alerts the driver with a visual warning and either an audible alert or steering wheel vibration.

In the new IS, lane recognition performance, which makes assist possible, has been improved.

When LTA is activated, AI technologies are applied to camera-actuated, white-line recognition for advanced deceleration of the vehicle in line with the size of the curve. Keeping lateral g-forces constant while driving through curves contributes to stable and comfortable driving and makes driving assist more continuous even in curves with a smaller radius and in tunnels.

Automatic High Beam detects preceding or oncoming vehicles and automatically switches between high beam and low beam headlights.

Road Sign Assist acquires road sign information using a camera and navigation maps and displays it on the multi-information display.

This reduces possible driver failure in recognizing signs and supports safe driving.

If non-operation by the driver continues during use of Lane Tracing Assist, Driver Emergency Stop Assist (coordinated with Lane Tracing Assist) supports the driver through audio and visual alerts and gentle deceleration.

It then activates the vehicle's hazard lamps and horn to alert those outside the vehicle to help prevent or reduce damage to the vehicle or to others, while slowing and eventually stopping the vehicle within its lane.

After stopping the vehicle, it unlocks the doors and activates an automatic HELPNET connection for a rescue request, contributing to early driver rescue.

Various other forms of advanced safety equipment are featured on the new IS and are being actively introduced by Lexus.

These include parking support brakes, which contribute to mitigation of damage in collisions due to pedal misapplication in places such as parking lots or in minor collisions with vehicles approaching from the rear, and the Panoramic View Monitor, which supports periphery safety checks.

 2020.03.26 2020.03.26 2020.03.26


Speed limits on all roads to be reduced by 10kph during CNY

                PETALING JAYA: Speed limits will be reduced by 10kph for all federal and state roads during the Chinese New Year Ops Bersepadu operations.

Transport Minister Datuk Seri Liow Tiong Lai said the speed limits would be lowered to 80kph for federal roads and 70kph for state roads during the operations from Jan 21 to Feb 5. He said heavy vehicles would be prohibited from using the highways on Jan 26, 27, 31 and Feb 1.

"In 2016 alone, the number of fatalities due to accidents had risen sharply to over 7,000 deaths.

"This is very worrying. Statistics will remain statistics if we all don't do our part to reduce the number of accidents," he said when launching the national-level road safety campaign in conjunction with the Chinese New Year celebrations at Sunway Pyramid on Tuesday.

Liow said 6,193 fatal road accidents were recorded in 2015. This rose to 6,570 cases last year. "The number of deaths rose to 7,152 deaths in 2016 compared to 6,706 two years ago," he added.

In total, Liow said there were 521,446 accidents last year compared to 489,606 in 2015. Liow said human error accounted for 80.6% of road accidents while 62.7% of fatal accidents involved motorcyclists.

"The realities of the figures should be an eye-opener to everyone to adopt a safe and careful attitude when on the road," he said.

Liow said the the new Automated Awareness Safety System (Awas) is expected to be enforced in April. The Awas system is an integration of the Automatic Enforcement System (AES) and the Kejara Demerit Point System. He said the use of camera technology and demerit point deduction system would help educate road users to abide by the law.

He said that integrated enforcement would be carried out under Ops Bersepadu during the Chinese New Year festive period. The Malaysian Institute of Road Safety (Miros) would conduct a assessment of the effectiveness of the operation during the festive period.