VW and China partners will soon allow house automation from the car

                SHANGHAI: Imagine rolling up to your home to be greeted with warm lights, air cooled to just the right temperature and water heated and ready for your shower.

That will be possible for owners of SAIC Volkswagen cars in China in the near future, with a new partnership the carmaker and online shopping giant JD.com announced on Wednesday.

SAIC Volkswagen’s Passat cars and other models produced this year will come with JD.com’s smart home services built in, the companies said in a statement.

When linked to users’ home appliances, the system will allow them to control their home appliances while inside the cars through voice commands or the vehicles’ touchscreens.

Users can also set the system to switch home appliances on or off automatically when their cars are within a certain range of their homes.

For example, by saying the words “turn on ‘going home’ mode”, the system can be triggered to turn on the lights, air conditioner and water heater once the car is within a certain distance from home. Drivers will also be able to view the quality of the air and security of their home from the screens in their cars, the companies said.

Smart vehicles and smart homes are part of the so-called internet of things (IoT), or devices that are connected to the Internet and can communicate with each other.

While smart home devices have been popular for years, connected cars have also been gaining traction gradually, with the proliferation of faster internet speeds and the rising use of smart devices.

Globally, the connected car market is expected to reach US$197bil (RM858.52bil) by 2026, according to US-based market research and consulting firm Reports and Data. Apple launched its in-car interface CarPlay as early as 2015, while Google introduced its equivalent, Android Auto, in the same year. More than 500 car models from 60 different auto brands now support Android Auto, according to Google.
China, the world’s largest automobile market, wants 30% of all new cars sold by 2025 to be “intelligent connected vehicles” with a range of automated features, according to a draft plan released by the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology.

Last year, Alibaba Group Holding – the largest e-commerce player in the country – teamed up with auto giants Audi, Renault and Honda to integrate its smart speaker, Tmall Genie, with the brands’ new cars. Alibaba is the Post’s parent company.

The partnership offered car owners a range of voice-controlled services such as the identification of nearby attractions and the ability to book tickets and order items while driving, and also allowed those with paired Tmall Genie smart speakers at home to monitor and control their smart home devices remotely while driving.

JD.com, the second-largest e-commerce player in China, marked its first entrance into the connected car market in 2018 with a partnership with Chinese automobile manufacturer Geely. It has since teamed up with other domestic carmakers such as Dongfeng Venucia and FAW on similar initiatives to deploy smart speakers in cars.

Competition in the segment is heating up though and JD.com will need to differentiate its products from other major tech platforms that are looking to enter the connected car market, such as by collaborations with real-estate developers to provide integrated smart home solutions that can be linked with connected cars, according to Jason Low, a senior analyst at tech market research firm Canalys.

“The top three major platforms in China – Baidu, Alibaba and Xiaomi – are also tackling the automotive market in China,” Low said. “It will be highly challenging for JD.com as its rivals are better established in the smart home area, and they are also willing to invest to create new partnerships and services to win the market.”

Another key challenge for IoT manufacturers, according to Low, is security. “As of now, the risks are expected to be low as the smart systems that are being put in place will not have full control of the car’s critical driving and safety systems,” he said.

“But in the long-term, especially as cars become fully autonomous, this will become an area of high concern which solution providers and car manufacturers will have to address fully.”

JD.com’s IoT platform, JD Whale, currently connects more than 150 million devices from over 1,000 brands, it said in the statement, adding that the platform has enabled over 25 million families in China to control all of their home devices and make purchases by voice command since its debut in 2015.

Going forward, JD.com and SAIC Volkswagen – a joint venture between Germany’s Volkswagen Group and China’s SAIC Motor – are also planning to launch “smart maintenance services” which will allow owners of SAIC Volkswagen cars to check the overall condition of their vehicles from home and view customised recommendations for maintenance services.

“When we think about travel functions, what we think about most is how to connect the car with the outside world, how to take the car as the key connecting point, and how to provide a real experience of connectivity for living,” said Ying Gao, senior product manager at SAIC Volkswagen Mobile Internet.

“JD will continue to fully leverage our IoT and AI (artificial intelligence) technology capabilities, supply chain and merchandise to provide technology and services for our partners,” said Yazhuo Wang, General Manager of IoT Solution and Product at JD Cloud & AI. – South China Morning Post


Jeep sales climbing in Japan as younger people warm to the brand

                TOKYO: While American-branded cars have historically struggled in Japan, Jeep, the rugged-looking sports utility vehicle, looks to be gaining popularity, particularly among younger buyers.

Jeep sales in the Asian nation are expected to increase 5% this year to more than 15,000 units, Hitoshi Ushikubo, the head of sales at Fiat Chrysler Japan, said in an interview on Monday.

Fiat Chrysler Japan is yet to be officially merged with the Japan office of Peugeot SA and come under the new Stellantis NV umbrella.

Shoppers in Japan have typically opted for smaller cars with high fuel efficiency, one reason why Ford Motor Co. ended up quitting the country in 2016.

But Jeep has managed to retain a loyal customer base. Now, amid the coronavirus pandemic, more young people are taking an interest in the cars, drawn by their ability to handle all sorts of outdoor terrain, which helps with avoiding public transport.

“We’ve made efforts to fit with the Japanese market” by rolling out cars with right-hand drive, unlike General Motors and Ford, Ushikubo said.

“Young people are looking for cars that allow them to present a part of their character,” he said, adding that a strong social media presence has also helped the brand.

Jeep sold 1,925 cars in March, 36% higher than the same month of 2020, which was impacted by Covid-19, with Wrangler and Renegade marques most popular, according to a statement today. Jeep ranked third last year among imported SUV brands in Japan, selling 13,588 units.

Tsubasa Imai, who bought a Jeep Grand Cherokee a few months ago, is one satisfied customer. “I like outdoor activities and I was looking for a car that has high horsepower and can carry a lot of baggage,” the 24-year-old said. There also aren’t too many cars in Japan that can tow a boat as well as look cool, he said.

Fiat Chrysler Japan expects to introduce new models for the Grand Cherokee, Compass and Gladiator this year. Keeping to that schedule may however depend on the availability of chips, Ushikubo said.


MMM expands Triton line-up with GL variant

                KUALA LUMPUR: Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia (MMM), the official distributor of Mitsubishi vehicles in Malaysia, introduced its latest Triton VGT AT GL variant.

It arrives priced with GST without insurance at RM103,800, while accompanied by a five-year or 200,000km warranty (whichever comes first) and hails from the company's global production hub in Thailand unit

Externally, it features a dark front chrome grille, side-steps and 16.0-inch alloys, while the cabin's notable goodies include a double-DIN audio system, 4WD selector and automatic climate controls to name a few.

Under the hood lies the latest 2.4-litre MIVEC turbodiesel engine with Variable Valve Timing technology that works together with a variable geometry turbocharger (VGT) to provide 181PS and 430Nm of torque.

Notable capabilities of the Triton include the ability to turn within a 5.9m radius and the ability to up to a 1-tonne payload.

For safety, the Triton VGT AT GL comes with active stability and traction control system (ASTC) that helps keep the driver in control during over or understeer situations.

Other safety equipment includes electronic brake-force distribution, brake assist, active stability control, traction control, hill-start assist and trailer stability assist.

A Mitsubishi roadshow will be held in Johor Baru from Sept 19 to 24 at the Centre Court of Aeon Tebrau City from 10.00am to 10.00pm and again in the Klang Valley from Sept 27 to Oct 1 at the Centre Court of Mid Valley Megamall from 10.00am to 10.00pm as well.


Mercedes-AMG GT 63 S 4MATIC+, C 63 S and Coupé launched, prices start from RM770K

Mercedes-Benz Malaysia vice president of sales and marketing Mark Raine with the newly launched Mercedes-AMG GT 63 S 4MATIC+.
SEPANG: Mercedes-Benz Malaysia has just launched a trio of cars to expand its current lineup of AMG performance vehicles at the Sepang International Circuit.

The new additions to its AMG performance lineup start with the brutal looking Mercedes-AMG GT 63 S 4MATIC+ costing RM1,798,888 (on-the-road without insurance).

Next on the list is the sporty two-door Mercedes-AMG C 63 S Coupé, priced at RM820,888.

Lastly, the more conservative 4-door Mercedes-AMG C 63 S costs RM768,888.

The three cars are fully-imported and are equipped with a powerful 4.0-litre (3,982cc) twin-turbo V8 engine producing 510hp from 5,500 to
6,250rpm and 700Nm of torque from 2,000 to 4,500rpm

However, the GT 63 S 4MATIC+'s engine gets tuned up to 639hp from 5,500 to 6,500rpm and 900Nm of torque from 2,500 to 4,500rpm.

The engines are handbuilt in Affalterbach, Germany and are in accordance with the AMG's "one man, one engine" philosophy.
Power is managed by a nine-speed AMG Speedshift Multi-Clutch Technology 9G automatic transmission that allows the sedan to sprint from 0 to 100kph in 4.0 seconds with the coupe taking 3.9 seconds before both cars reach a top speed of 290kph.
The GT 63 S 4MATIC+, on the other hand, shaves the time down to 3.2 seconds and has a top speed of 315kph.

Furthermore, the new cars - like all vehicles from Mercedes-Benz Malaysia, are covered by a four-year warranty (two-year manufacturer and two-year in-country extended warranty) with unlimited mileage and Service24h Roadside Assistance service.

An extended Limited Warranty Programme for one or two-year plans are also available and comes with unlimited mileage as well.

Inspired by the two-door Mercedes-AMG GT, the all-wheel driven four-door AMG GT 63 S 4MATIC+ comes as standard with a host of AMG packages that include an Aerodynamics package, Carbon-Fibre package, Night package, light display and a performance exhaust system - all designed and honed in Affalterbach, Germany.

The GT 63 S rolls on 21-inch AMG lightweight forged wheels that partially obscure the yellow-painted performance brake callipers and cross-drilled discs and have been further equipped with Adaptive Highbeam Assist Plus for the multibeam LED headlights and sunroof.

Other exterior equipment includes the AMG Ride Control+ suspension system, AMG Dynamic Plus package and the AMG Dynamic Select system.

Inside, the cabin has been accented by matt carbon-fibre trim and have been fitted with a multi-function sports steering wheel (with centre marker) wrapped in Dinamica microfiber, Nappa leather and Dinamica microfibre combination upholstery, powered sports seats with memory function and an Air-Balance package.

The 395-litre boot can be expanded by an added 60 litres located beneath the boot floor and with the backrests folded down, this capacity increases to 1,324 litres.

Furthermore, the cabin also features keyless-entry with push-start button, automatic Thermotronic climate controls, photochromic rear view mirror, yellow seat belts, heads-up display, Widescreen digital cockpit, touchpad, wireless charging (front and rear), and illuminated door sill panels with AMG lettering.

Other features include an AMG Track Pace (lap-timer), Driving Assistance package, Easy-Pack tailgate, tyre pressure monitoring system, handsfree boot operation and Tirefit (tyre repair kit).

Entertainment comes from a Burmester surround sound system with Apple CarPlay, Comand Online, 360-degree camera view camera system, Active Distance Assist Distronic and Active Parking Assist with Parktronic.

The C 63 S sedan gets key features such as the 19-inch forged lightweight wheels with a cross-spoke design that partially hide the red callipers, panoramic sunroof, Adaptive Highbeam Assist Plus and multibeam LED for the front headlights as well as power folding mirrors.

Also included are the exterior carbon-fibre package, night package, sports tyres, spoiler lip and performance exhaust system from AMG.

Inside, the cabin is accented with carbon-fibre and light longitudinal-grain aluminium while the AMG two-tone red pepper and black Nappa leather take care of the upholstery.

The powered front sports seats have four-way lumbar support with memory function and heating and the AMG performance multifunction steering wheel gets wrapped in a combination of leather and Dinamica microfibre.

There is also a heads-up display as well as a touchpad controller to navigate through the menus on the 10.25-inch Media display or view the outside world from within the car via the 360-degree camera system while the driver gets a 12.3-inch full-digital instrument display.

With an analogue clock on the centre of the dashboard, entertainment is processed by the Burmester surround sound system that comes with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and Comand Online.

As for the Coupe variant, its list of equipment is very similar to the sedan but other than the lack of two extra doors in comparison, its 19-inch lightweight forged wheels have a five twin-spoke design and it also now features a safety belt feeder.

Mercedes-AMG C 63 S

Mercedes-AMG C 63 S Coupe

Mercedes-AMG GT 63 S 4MATIC+


These apps in the US are helping drivers find parking spots faster

                LOS ANGELES: Rental cars are a US$30-billion-a-year business in the US, according to statistics from Auto Rental News. Despite ride-sharing services and public transportation, rental revenues grew by more than US$1 billion from the previous year.

Sometimes, it makes sense to have a car to cover a lot of ground quickly or to lug a lot of equipment. But then a car becomes a ball and chain.

There are systems to help you find a parking space, and we're just starting to see them in airports and other destinations frequented by travellers.

When flying, Ontario International Airport and San Diego International Airport now offer on-site parking you can reserve and pay for in advance. But such innovations at Los Angeles International Airport lots are still in the offing.

If parking is such a problem, why not just add spaces? For one thing, they are expensive to build. For another, they require maintenance. What's really required, says Steffen Turoff, who manages the LA office of Walker Consultants, a parking consulting company, is better management of those spaces.

"If you look just about anywhere, everybody is parking up front, and the spaces and bottom level on the edges are always empty," he said. "You can keep adding, but you don't solve the problem."

Reserved parking has a revenue benefit, although not always for the customer: As with airline tickets, demand influences prices.

An app that tells you what's available where and for how much will let you manage your time and the parking company manage its space.

A company called Parking Sense and its technology are the force behind a guidance system that vows to lead you to the promised land of reserved parking. It claims that it can cut the time it takes to find parking by as much as a half-hour. Plus, by not driving around looking for a spot, you're reducing emissions.

ParkUp Pay's app lets you find parking and know the cost before you commit to a spot. It has 87 parking sites in the LA area and will add 140 more in the next 12 months, says Jack Bezzant, the chief executive of the company whose goal is to make "parking as reliable as electricity" and says this method is "absolutely cheaper than valet."

It's not the only game, of course. I found ParkWhiz and when I asked it to find something, it came back with a spot that cost 5 dollars and was a one-minute walk.

Spot Hero, which says that the 85 hours that LA drivers waste looking for parking costs US$1,700 a year, found a US$5 spot close to my destination. Meanwhile Parking Panda found me an US$11 place and would, as many apps will, let me use my phone for my mobile pass. Some also allow you to use Apple Pay.

There are many more, and you may need to try several because not every company is in every city. — TCA/dpa


GoCar teams up with TotalEnergies to offer Online-to-Offline services

                PETALING JAYA: GoCar Malaysia, a leading on-demand mobility-as-a-service platform, has inked a partnership agreement with TotalEnergies Marketing Malaysia to launch Online-to-Offline offerings including TotalEnergies’ lubricants and expertise from the GoCar Garage network.

The strategic partnership will enable both companies to widen their customer reach and service networks, starting with onboarding TotalEnergies Quartz Auto Services onto the GoCar mobile app.

This integration is in line with TotalEnergies’ ongoing digitalisation drive to enhance consumer touch points across multiple channels.

It will also accelerate the availability of GoCar Garage’s convenient one-stop solution for consumers to service, maintain and repair their cars, with a target of 200 locations nationwide this year.

 TotalEnergies Marketing Malaysia managing director Jennifer Li (left) signing the partnership agreement with Nicholas Tan. With them are (from left) Minard, Ramadier, Tan Chong Group deputy president Datuk Rosie Tan and Warisan TC Holdings Group CEO Tan Keng Meng.

GoCar Garage and its expanding network of Garage partners will also offer TotalEnergies’ advanced Quartz lubricants that leverage breakthrough molecular technology to deliver optimum engine protection, efficiency and resilience.

Building on 60 years of experience, Quartz lubricants have been formulated to meet a range of demands.

Each formula undergoes thousands of hours of research, development and testing.

TotalEnergies Marketing Asia Pacific Middle East lubricants, specialties & B2B vice-president Vincent Minard said the company has been at the forefront of driving digital innovation to offer greater value to customers.

“Collaboration with GoCar Garage via GoCar app is in line with our focus to deliver quality lubricants through our partner workshops, directly to customers.

“The O2O channel will provide more drive-ins to our partner workshops and convenient service to GoCar Garage customers.

“We believe that the market is ripe for a new way of servicing a car, especially for off-warranty vehicles. One that is more convenient and affordable and at trusted service centres.

TotalEnergies Operations Director, Oceania and South-East Asia, Aimeric Ramadier, said the company is excited to partner with GoCar Garage as customer centricity is a priority for both companies.

“We are looking forward to expanding our collaboration with GoCar in other business areas to deliver even more added value to Malaysian auto customers,” he said.

GoCar president Nicholas Tan said the company is of the view that the market is ripe for a new way of servicing a car, especially for off-warranty vehicles that is more convenient and affordable and at trusted service centres.

“This alliance with TotalEnergies will increase the availability of our seamless and transparent GoCar Garage services nationwide.

“Additionally, it will ensure we continue delivering quality to our customers, which is the cornerstone of our business,” said Tan.

Created to offer a seamless end-to-end car maintenance experience with transparent pricing structures, the GoCar Garage digital platform allows customers to schedule service
appointments, select services, pre-approve quotations before work begins and make payments, all through the GoCar mobile app.

Customers in the Klang Valley can also opt for the GoValet door-to-door delivery service to save time and enjoy more convenience.

GoCar Garages are equipped to service passenger vehicles from local and Japanese to continental and premium brands.

To locate a GoCar Garage and book a service appointment, download the GoCar mobile app.


Toyota to build US battery plant under US$3.4bil plan

                DALLAS: Toyota plans to invest US$3.4 billion (RM14bil) in the US through 2030 to establish a new company and build its first US battery plant, becoming the latest global automaker to accelerate the transition to electric vehicles through a battery push.

Production would start in 2025 and at first focus on batteries for hybrid electric vehicles, creating 1,750 new jobs, the company said in a statement that didn’t disclose the location or production capacity.

The investment is specifically for battery work and won’t be used to expand vehicle-assembly capacity, a spokesman said.

The investment is part of Toyota’s global plan announced last month to spend 1.5 trillion yen (RM55bil) by 2030 on battery development and production.

The world’s No. 1 automaker expects electric vehicles to account for nearly 70% of its US sales by 2030, up from almost 25% currently.

Global automakers are boosting investments in battery production to take on EV market leader Tesla Inc.

Stellantis NV and LG Energy announced plans today to build a battery-cell factory in North America to supply the carmaker’s growing fleet of electric vehicles.

Stellantis, with brands like Jeep and Ram, has a target of raising US sales of electrified vehicles to 40% of deliveries by the end of the decade.

Ford Motor Co. last month unveiled a plan to spend US$11.4 billion with South Korea’s SK Innovation Co. to build battery and EV plants in Tennessee and Kentucky.

General Motors Co. also stepped up investments in electric and autonomous vehicles in June, with a plan to spend $35 billion (RM146bil) by 2025.

By building a new US battery plant, Toyota is pushing for a localisation of its supply chain and production know-how.

Like other carmakers, its output has been hit by supply-chain disruptions as factories in the key South-East Asian region shut down due to Covid-19.

"This investment will help usher in more affordable electrified vehicles for US consumers,” Ted Ogawa, chief executive officer of Toyota Motor North America, said in a statement.

The Japanese automaker’s US headquarters is in Plano, Texas, near here.

The investment may also help the automaker politically, with Ogawa saying Toyota’s electrification push is about creating American jobs while helping the environment and consumers.

As the Biden administration pushes for a sweeping clean-energy agenda, Toyota is among the foreign automakers and other non-unionised carmakers who have voiced their unease with signs that the administration favours unionised Detroit carmakers in the race to win over electric car buyers.

Last month, Toyota said a proposal by US House Democratic lawmakers to give union-made electric vehicles higher subsidies discriminates "against American autoworkers based on their choice not to unionise.”

By 2030, Toyota expects to sell 2 million zero-emission vehicles globally.

The company projects it will sell as many as 1.8 million electrified vehicles in the US, including zero-emission models.


Mitsubishi vehicle disinfectant approved by EPA in US

                FRANKLIN: Mitsubishi Motors North America (MMNA) announced that Diamond Premium Care, a non-abrasive, antimicrobial, no-contact disinfecting and deodorizing spray used on vehicle interiors and HVAC systems, is now approved by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to kill SARS-CoV-2 virus, associated with the Covid-19 pandemic.

Mitsubishi Motors is the first and only OEM deploying this service on a national scale in the US.

“Diamond Premium Care is a rare tool in the fight against Covid-19. It offers peace of mind to the driver of any vehicle, but it’s especially valuable to those with added exposure, whether that comes from regularly sharing their vehicle with others or from the direct risk of on-the-job exposure to Covid-19,” said MMNA Vice President of Aftersales, Scott Smith. “MMNA and our dealer partners are proud to be able to offer this first-of-its-kind, EPA-approved service to everyone during these challenging times.”

Diamond Premium Care works by killing 99.9% of viruses and bacteria that inhabit automotive interiors and circulate through vehicle HVAC systems. It also eliminates odours at the source, without using abrasive chemicals like bleach or scented masking agents.

For interior application, the dye-free treatment is applied directly by spray to vehicle surfaces, and for HVAC application, it is applied through the outdoor air intake vent, allowing it to permeate through the HVAC system and cabin interior.

For a standard-size vehicle, treatment can be completed in just 10 minutes.


BMW is official automotive partner for 2017 Le Tour de Langkawi

                KUALA LUMPUR: BMW Group Malaysia, being the official automotive partner for the 22nd Le Tour de Langkawi Malaysia 2017, has committed more than 200 of its vehicles in support of the event from Feb 22 to Mar 1.

While bearing the blue and white colours from the Bavarian coat-of-arms, the fleet will consist of the 1 Series, 2 Series GT, 330e plug-in hybrid, 5 Series (F10), X1, X4, BMW Motorrad R 1200GS and MINI Countryman sport utility vehicle.

The vehicles will be used during Asia’s premier cycling stage race event by marshals, officials and also act as shuttles for riding teams.

The event, which is organised by the Ministry of Youth and Sports Malaysia and managed by Ciclista Sports, will cover more 1,200km - spread over eight stages.

During which, Asian and Malaysian riders will get the chance to challenge World Tour giants and Grand Tour cyclists from the Pro Continental ranks of China, South Korea, Philippines, Indonesia, Singapore, Thailand, Hong Kong and Kazakhstan.

“Le Tour de Langkawi 2017 is our first ever presence in the sport of cycling at the highest level in the region and we at BMW Group Malaysia are very excited with the opportunity," said BMW Group Malaysia head of corporate communications Sashi Ambi.

He added that they are also pleased to be the White Jersey Sponsor for the competition, which is given to the best Asian rider to signify the discovery of local and regional talent and heroes in the sport.


Chery: Making a big leap

                Founded in 1997 as a state-owned enterprise in China’s Anhui province, automaker Chery has since outgrown its reputation as a builder of small passenger cars for its domestic market and has now become one of China’s largest and most well-known carmakers.

Since its inception, Chery has expanded its global reach by establishing partnerships and joint ventures with other carmakers - entering new markets in Europe and South America, among others.

In 2005, the carmaker attempted to establish itself in Malaysia by setting up its operations and a small assembly facility in Johor.

The following year, the brand introduced its subcompact QQ, followed by the Tiggo, Eaststar and Maxime models before exiting in 2015 due to poor sales.

Of late, the company has since made clear its intentions to make a comeback into the Malaysian market with its Tiggo 8 mid-sized sports utility vehicle (SUV) and Omoda 5 compact SUV.

The company said the SUVs will debut as early as June with the intention of positioning them just below the likes of Honda’s CR-V and HR-V line-ups in terms of pricing.

Both SUVs will initially be showcased in CBU forms to help tickle the fancies of interested car buyers with the final product to be delivered as a CKD unit.

The two SUVs will be followed by the introduction of the Tiggo 8 Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) and an electric vehicle (EV) version of the Omoda 5 have been earmarked for introduction in the first quarter of 2024.

Meanwhile, the Tiggo 8 and Omoda 5 SUVs will be powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged engine producing 254hp and 390Nm of torque mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission with an all-wheel drive system.

During a recent visit to the carmaker’s headquarters in Wuhu, China, a select few of the Malaysian motoring fraternity had a chance to sample the Tiggo 8’s handling prowess on a closed circuit located nearby.

While navigating through a figure-eight, braking and moose test, we’re happy to report the Tiggo 8 performed adequately while having a comfort-tuned suspension and rolling on 18-inch wheels with 225/60 series tyres.

Although this practical SUV responds well to steering inputs, pitch and roll were very much apparent – as expected from such a pairing of the suspension, wheels and tyres.

Flooring the pedal will get the front of the vehicle to rise while the rear takes a noticeable squat. Thankfully, the vehicle levels out quickly.

Here, drivers will appreciate the Tiggo 8’s response to steering inputs despite it rolling about, however, the moose test would further magnify such an experience since it requires sudden directional changes at higher entry speeds.

Such a test typically rewards a sportier setup which provides a more lateral experience than roll.

The high-profile tyres will inherently numb driver feedback from the tyres which will have them guestimating more than reacting to maintain control over the SUV - all while rear-seated occupants attempt to refrain from flailing about.

Getting hard on the brakes will get the job done to bring the Tiggo 8 to a complete stop and this will be accompanied by a noticeable amount of downward pitch.

Although the compact Omoda 5 was not on hand at the closed circuit, it was made available at the company’s test facility located within its assembly plant’s grounds during a plant visit.

There, we were able to test the Omoda 5 over different road surfaces which included rough surfaces such as cobblestones as well as large, medium and small bumps.

The facility is used to test newly assembled vehicles for any potential flaws in assembly and/or equipment and unfortunately did not allow the Omoda 5 to be manhandled - unlike the larger Tiggo 8.

Over such surfaces, the Omoda 5 showcased a stiff chassis that’s accompanied by a suspension that’s not only comfort-tuned but also highly compliant - much like the Tiggo 8.

Noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) were also reasonably dealt with as occupants enjoy the rather plush seats.

Accelerating up to speed before getting hard on the brakes to bring the Omoda 5 to a standstill felt adequate as well.

The overall experience from these two SUVs has left a somewhat premium aftertaste from a plush interior that’s been blended with acceptable NVH levels, a highly compliant suspension and good build quality.

Clearly, Chery has come a long way as a carmaker, having upped its quality controls and as such has managed to build what seems to be vehicles that are not just more than road-worthy but also price-worthy. - JAY WONG


Police and JPJ determined to put a stop to illegal racing

                KUALA LUMPUR: Police said they were determined to stop illegal racing, while the Transport Ministry has ordered the Road Transport Department to step up enforcement against illegal racers.

The moves follow allegations that several Perodua Myvis, which were racing on the Duta-Ulu Kelang Expressway (DUKE), caused a Mitsubishi Pajero to crash.

A couple and their seven-month-old infant in the Pajero were killed in the accident on Saturday, which has led to a public outcry.

“We do not want illegal racers to spill more innocent blood,” Deputy Transport Minister Datuk Abdul Aziz Kaprawi said yesterday.

He said he would ensure that JPJ was firm in enforcing traffic laws and that it increased its operations against illegal racing, especially during weekends.

“JPJ will focus its efforts on areas known for illegal racing,” he said after meeting the family of the three who were killed.

He said the Malaysian Institute of Road Safety Research (Miros) had also been instructed to assist police in their investigations.

“Our main concern is finding out the cause of the crash since no one has come forward to claim responsibility.

“We will charge those found guilty of the offence,” Abdul Aziz said, adding that they were also looking at installing more CCTVs along the highways.

Eyewitnesses said the suspects were racing with four other Myvis before the accident, although representatives of the car club which the suspects belonged to have denied the claim.

Abdul Aziz said car clubs were not illegal and some were actually helping the authorities.

“But heavily modified vehicles and racing on public roads are illegal,” he said, urging motorists to abide by traffic laws.

He said Yayasan Pewaris Batu had also set up a bank account to channel funds to the two girls orphaned by the accident, Nur Firuza Amira and Nur Firuza Akila.

“The funds will be placed in this account to ensure that the two girls get some assistance every month until they reach adulthood,” he added.

Bukit Aman traffic chief Senior Asst Comm Datuk Mohd Fuad Abdul Latiff said police were very close to solving the case.

“We believe we already know who caused the accident and we will reveal this in the near future.

“Regardless of who blames who, the police investigations will reveal what actually happened,” he said.

He said police took illegal racing seriously and were determined to stop such activities.

“We are aware of car clubs holding gatherings from time to time and are keeping tabs on them,” he said, adding that although these meetings were not illegal, they must always adhere to traffic laws.

He said no one was above the law and car club meetings should always disperse in an orderly fashion to ensure the safety of other motorists on the road.

“My advice is simple: just obey the law and be courteous and respectful drivers,” he said.

Meanwhile, social media users have slammed the speeding Myvi drivers, calling them irresponsible, reckless and childish.

“There are only two kinds of racers,” Mohamed Shah Osman commented on Facebook. “Smart ones who race on proper racing tracks and wannabe racers with super tiny brains.”

Ashley PMun said it was “devastating” to see the photos of the accident and that she felt enraged when she watched the video footage of the Myvi drivers speeding on the expressway.

“The group are brainless and cruel humans who take innocent lives for granted,” she said, adding that it was horrible that their actions claimed three lives.

“Just one stupid act and it took three innocent lives,” said Sabrina Gan, adding that instead of pleading innocence and giving excuses, the Myvi drivers should at least accept responsibility for their actions.

News of the drivers being released on police bail on Sunday also resulted in a wave of angry comments online.

Shalizahanim Shukor said it was “unbelievable” that bail had been granted to the drivers as they had no regard for their own safety, let alone the safety of others.

M. Jacob Mathews said he could not accept that bail had been granted.

“What happened to law, order and justice?” he added.

Police arrested the two drivers over the weekend and released them on bail.

The case is being investigated for reckless driving.


Bosch promotes cabin filter for better air quality

                PETALING JAYA: Bosch Automotive Aftermarket Malaysia (Bosch AA) held a ‘Mask Up Your Car’ online media briefing session to encourage precautionary measures be practiced within our cars.

The mask in this case is a cabin filter which filters the air coming into the car through the air conditioning system and improves the air quality.

The session was joined by special guest speaker Dr Rajveer Singh Saren, Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT) Specialist who shared insights on how air quality directly affects our health and immune system.

“Air pollution is a silent killer and has caused over three million deaths in the Southeast Asian region. In Malaysia, the World Health Organization categorizes our air quality as moderately unsafe .

"In my 17 of years of practicing, I’ve seen an increase in health problems such as asthma, allergies, sinusitis, chronic bronchitis, lung cancer and heart attacks every year due to long term exposure to current air quality levels,” said Rajveer.

A Bosch AA study done in April this year reported that 96% of Malaysian drivers showed concerns about air quality in the car.

Dillion Goh, Marketing Manager of Bosch AA said, “We at Bosch highly encourage drivers to start making the air quality in the car cabin a focal point for health with prioritizing the use of good quality cabin filters in this new normal and beyond.

"Many drivers are unaware of the existence of a cabin filter and they are in fact a simple, affordable, and very accessible car part that helps limit airborne pollutants, bacteria and viruses from flowing into the car cabin.”

A good cabin filter like the Bosch Aeristo Premium comes with enhanced features including anti-bacteria and anti-virus properties that can help minimise exposure risks to airborne pollutants, bacteria and viruses.

The Bosch Aeristo Premium cabin filter is suitable for everyone, and especially beneficial for asthma or allergy sufferers, pet owners, frequent travellers and families with children.


Lexus Next Step Plan tailored for the UX buyer

                KUALA LUMPUR: Lexus Malaysia is aiming to broaden the UX customer base with a new financing scheme.

The Lexus Next Step Plan, offered by Lexus Capital Services, touts lower Instalment Rates Compared To Conventional Hire Purchase.

The UX, offered in three variants, is priced from RM237,000 to RM291,000.

Lexus said the plan offers an instalment rate from as low as RM1,938 for the first three years.

READ MORE: Lexus UX 200 tested

After that, payments continue to be tailored to fit the customer's earning power, said Lexus in a statement.

Through the Lexus Next Step, customers can also choose to trade in their UX for another Lexus model at the end of sixth year or continue with added payments until the ninth year.

The UX is available for test drives at any of the six authorised Lexus Centres around the country.


A Lamborghini hypercar to strut out at 2016 Geneva motor show

                DETROIT: Lamborghini will debut an 800bhp sports car at the 2016 Geneva International Motor Show, according to US magazine Road and Track.

The rumour regarding the existence of a Lamborghini hypercar is not new. In fact, the hypercar was awaited this summer at Pebble Beach and at the Frankfurt Motor Show but to no avail. Road and Track now reports that Lamborghini director Stephan Winkelmann has confirmed the car's official world premiere at the Geneva Motor Show from March 3-13, 2016.

Little is known about the characteristics of the car but it has been suggested that it will be a hybridised vehicle equipped with an 800bhp engine. Production will inevitably be limited to a mere dozen units.

The new model, which could be called "hyperVeloce," should be similar to the Bugatti Veyron, McLaren P1, Ferrari, Porsche 918 Spyder and Koenigsegg Regera - the supercar of all vehicles with a horsepower of 1500bhp and the ability to go from 0 to 400kph in 20 seconds.

Meanwhile, Lamborghini has only just revealed the Roadster version of the Aventador LP750-4 SV (Superveloce) in Pebble Beach. The 750bhp vehicle will be limited to 500 units. Interested buyers will need to fork out close to 500,000 euros to bring this jewel home come spring 2016.

The Roadster should be able to reach a top speed of 350kph and go from 0 to 100kph in only 2.9 seconds.


Sony to test self-driving cars to boost sensing, safety technologies

                TOKYO: Sony Corp said it would start testing self-driving cars as early as this year to beef up the company’s sensing and safety technologies, as the Japanese electronics and entertainment giant accelerates its automotive push.

Sony revealed the plan as it unveiled an electric concept car with 33 embedded sensors, including image sensors and solid state light detection and ranging (Lidar) sensors, at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas on Monday.

The Vision-S electric concept car, developed with the help of Bosch, Continental and other partners, also incorporates Sony’s in-car entertainment systems with spatial audio technology.

Sony is aiming to start test rides during the next financial year starting in April to check the performance of its auto- related technologies, a spokesman said. The company has no plans to produce its own cars, he added.

Sony dominates the market for smartphone image sensors, but has been trying to catch up with ON Semiconductor Corp in sensors for automotive applications.

“It’s not an exaggeration to say that mobile has been the mega-trend of the last decade,” Sony chief executive officer Kenichiro Yoshida said at a CES press conference. “I believe the next megatrend will be mobility.”


Porsche Taycan updated: more range, more connectivity, more colours

                STUTTGART: The Taycan and Taycan Cross Turismo will start the new model year in September with extensive changes.

Thanks to technological developments, the day-to-day range of the electric sports cars will be improved.

Further significant upgrades include the deep integration of Android Auto in the Porsche Communication Management (PCM) system, as well as the availability of Remote Park Assist for the first time on the Taycan.

With this new optional assistance system, the process of parking the car can be controlled via a smartphone, without the driver needing to be at the wheel.

With the new Paint to Sample and Paint to Sample Plus options, unusual and personal colour choices can now be realised. For example, the Taycan can now be painted in the ‘90s classic Rubystone Red, or in bright Acid Green.

The new Taycan model year will not be homologated separately, so there will not be any new WLTP range values.

However, the real-world range of the latest versions will be greater in day-to-day use.

Extensive technological developments have been implemented to achieve this increase. In Normal and Range modes, the front electric motor is almost completely decoupled and de-energised in the partial load range in the all-wheel drive models.

Furthermore, no drive is transmitted to either axle when the car is coasting or at a standstill. This electric freewheel function reduces drag losses. The motors are switched on again within milliseconds only when the driver requests more power or changes the driving mode.

The thermal management and charging functions have also been further improved. With the Turbo Charging Planner, the high-voltage battery can now be heated to a slightly higher temperature than before. This means that fast charging is possible earlier and at a higher charge level. In addition, the waste heat from the electrical components is used to an even greater extent for battery temperature regulation.

The Voice Pilot voice assistant now also understands instructions in everyday language even better. The satellite navigation system calculates more quickly, primarily uses the online search for points of interest (POI) and also displays its information more clearly.

The layout and operating system have also been revamped slightly: there are now five menu options instead of three on the left side of the central display and the icons can be arranged individually.
The cult colours make a comeback: even more individual paintwork

The Taycan has been particularly successful in recent months. With 20,000 vehicles delivered in the first half of 2021 alone, the year-to-date number is only slightly below the total for 2020 as a whole. Sales of the latest member of the model range are on a par with those of the sports car icon, the 911.


The technology being copied from cars to make cycling much more safe

                FRANKFURT: Many cyclists are downright afraid of slamming on the brakes - and rightly so.

If you squeeze the brake on the front wheel too hard, the bike can freeze up, jackknife and slide dangerously to one side. If you're going fast, there's even a risk that the bike will flip and send you flying over the handlebars.

This is also the reason why the front brakes of children's bicycles are sometimes marked with red paint during bike-riding lessons on schoolyards. Red means "danger" - "use with caution."

And yet if you need to stop with a short braking distance, then there's no way around that front brake.

Roughly speaking, when you brake, your body weight is pressed onto the front wheel, giving it more traction and allowing it to absorb more braking force.

If only there were some way to prevent that front wheel from slipping or the rear wheel from lifting off the ground.

ABS for bikes

Bicycle manufacturers have been looking for a way out of this dilemma for quite some time. As early as 18 years ago, the East German manufacturer Biria introduced a mechanical anti-lock braking system for bicycles.

This was supposed to prevent the front wheel from slipping and the bicycle from flipping over. With Biria, the coaster brake acted on the front and rear wheel simultaneously. But sadly this innovation was ahead of its time, and the company didn't last long.

It was only in 2017 for the world's leading supplier of e-bike parts decided to try out electronically controlled, hydraulic ABS for bicycles (after developing the first electronic ABS for cars for market in 1978).

The next year, the first ABS bikes with Bosch technology made their debut at the bicycle manufacturers like Centurion, Cresta, Flyer, Kalkhoff and Riese & Müller.

Bosch itself does not build bikes, but supplies important components such as electric motors and batteries - and now also lots of electronics and software for the "smart bike".

So far, however, only very few e-bikes on the market are equipped with ABS. This could have something to do with the fact that the old ABS control unit from Bosch consisted of a clunky-looking box weighing around 800 grams and mounted on the front of the handlebar.

The extra cost of around €500 is also likely to have put off many potential users.

At the Eurobike 2022 trade fair in Frankfurt am Main in mid-July, ABS pioneer Bosch has now unveiled a completely revised system. It's much more compact, lighter and also blends in much better with the look of the bike. It is also said to be somewhat cheaper.

"The second-generation module is now 77% smaller and 55% lighter" says Claus Fleischer, business manager of Bosch's e-bike system division.

"This allows us to mount it at the bottom of the bicycle fork, close to the brake caliper. The ABS system is thus barely visible to the untrained eye."

New software takes bike type into account

A big difference compared to the first ABS generation is now also the software that controls the ABS. While the first generation could not distinguish between trekking bike, mountain bike or cargo bike, the ABS 2.0 now takes into account the different e-bike types and their distinct relationship between weight and centre of gravity.

On the cargo bike with a low centre of gravity, the ABS combination of hardware and software ensures that fast, safe and stable braking is possible even when the bike is carrying a heavy load. This is because the front wheel can no longer lock up and jackknife.

On a touring or mountain bike, a sensor is used on the rear wheel. It monitors whether the wheel is still turning or lifting off the ground.

If the rear wheel lift sensor is activated, the brake pressure on the front wheel is automatically lowered within milliseconds so that the rear wheel regains contact with the ground.

Professional mountain bikers can also select a mode in which the ABS intervenes less actively or switch off the ABS completely.

Low power needs

The energy requirements for ABS to work are low and easily covered by any e-bike's battery, Bosch says. In tests with a pre-production model, no significant effects on the range could be determined.

The power consumption is so low that even after the motor assistance is automatically switched off when the battery is empty, the ABS safety function is still available for a long time.

Only when the battery is completely empty does the ABS switch off with an indicator light that lights up shortly beforehand.

According to the testing organisation Dekra, ABS is a "sensible step towards more safety on pedelecs" as it "defuses many critical braking situations."

The question of how expensive this gain in safety will turn out to be will be answered when bike manufacturers begin launching their new models with ABS. Experts at the Eurobike trade fair assume an additional cost of between €300 and €400 (RM1,810).


Opel pulls wraps off next-generation Astra

                BERLIN: Opel has pulled the wrapping from its new Astra, releasing the first photos of the next generation featuring a decidedly sporty design that especially scores points against its rival, the VW Golf.

Alongside striking curves, the compact also bears the brand's new "Vizor" front fascia. Opel has not yet given any details on pricing, but it should be slightly more expensive than the current model, which starts in the US$26,660 range, when it hits showrooms.

The Astra technically shares a platform with its French sister models DS4, Peugeot 308 and the Citroen C4, which is where the Astra's plug-in hybrid system, available for the first time, also stems from.

Opel combines a 1.6-litre petrol engine with an electric motor and 12.4-kWh back-up battery, with an estimated electric range of about 50km. Depending on the model variant, the system performance is between 180hp and 225hp, according to the manufacturer.

Alternatively, there will also be a 1.2-litre three-cylinder petrol engine with 110hp or 130hp, as well as a diesel that can provide 130 hp from four cylinders with a capacity of 1.5 litres. Opel has not yet provided details about the performance and fuel consumption.

Opel also promises LED headlamps as standard as well as a digital cockpit with free-standing screens behind the steering wheel with the Astra. For an additional charge, drivers can opt for particularly ergonomic seats and, for the first time, a full head-up display.

The new Astra, which has grown to 4.37 metres, is expected to go on sale starting in early 2022.


Skoda LEDs that warn pedestrians

                PRAGUE/LONDON: Czech car manufacturer Skoda is developing a new road safety feature that uses flashing LEDS in the front grille to warn pedestrians and cyclists of danger ahead.

The trial project, announced on the maker's UK website, uses LED signals mounted in the grille of an Enyaq iV. These indicate when other road users can go or should wait and when the car itself is about to move off into traffic.

The system replaces the Enyaq iV’s backlit Crystal Face grille with a new body featuring LED strip holders. The programmable LEDs can be controlled separately, making it possible to create unique animations.

The prototype uses a battery of red and green icons, which is however bad news for those who suffer from colour blindness, and the car can flash up a warning to pedestrians when a runaway car is unable to stop.

The icon library includes green arrows, a green figure, a warning triangle and a red triangle with a cross. There is also information on the car's internal display so the driver knows what is being shown.

When the car approaches a pedestrian crossing, it can warn those waiting to cross in advance that it has spotted them. It then stops and displays green arrows, for example, to tell them it is safe to cross. Once they have crossed, and the car is about to set off, it can display a different signal to warn pedestrians that the car is moving.

Skoda is also testing a robot traffic beacon designed to help children, senior citizens and people with disabilities cross the road. The robot is about two metres tall and looks like a mobile traffic light.

The robot, which is over two metres tall, looks like a mobile traffic light that makes its way to the middle of a pedestrian crossing.

Once it gets there, it displays a green light and pedestrians can cross. The robot constantly monitors its surroundings to can detect whether a car is approaching the crossing.


Mercedes‑Maybach GLS 600 4MATIC refreshed

                STUTTGART, Germany: The new Mercedes GLS models get updated for 2024, with fresh looks, upgraded standard equipment, new options and software, and interior colours and trim.

The latest Mercedes‑Benz GLS, Mercedes‑Maybach GLS 600 4MATIC and Mercedes‑AMG GLS 63 4MATIC+ get an even more striking radiator grille, a more prominent bumper and a redesigned simulated underguard (standard equipment).

As before, the Mercedes‑Benz GLS is a seven-seater as standard.

Vertical chrome bars and the "Maybach" lettering are the distinguishing features of the top model's high-quality radiator grille.

A new option are 23‑inch forged wheels in typical Maybach design with forged wheel bolt cover.

A new standard feature is ambient lighting with animated projection of the Mercedes‑Maybach pattern.

The centre sections of the seat surfaces and backrests now feature diamond-pattern quilting.

With the optional MBUX Multi-Seat Entertainment system, rear-seat occupants experience the same comprehensive range of infotainment and comfort features as those in the front.

They have the use of up to three touchscreens, and a variety of intuitive control options such as the "Hey Mercedes" voice assistant.

The voice assistant can also be activated without the keyword "Hey Mercedes".

Also new is the latest steering wheel generation with touch controls on the spokes, two USB ports (optional equipment) with 100W output in the rear of the centre console, and Energising Air Control (optional in Western Europe) with two-stage filter concept against fine dust and other pollutants.

<img class="size-full wp-image-293658" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/dsc.carsifu.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Carsifu-2024-updated-Mercedes%E2%80%91Maybach-GLS-600-4MATIC-9.jpg" alt="Mercedes-Maybach GLS 600 4MATIC


Swiss road agency bans new Porsche Cayenne registrations

                ZURICH: Switzerland's road agency has imposed a preliminary ban on new registrations of Porsche Cayenne cars equipped with manipulated diesel engine management software.

The preliminary ban, imposed on Cayenne cars with three-litre diesel motors of emissions standard euro 6, does not affect cars already registered in Switzerland, the agency said on Friday.

Sports car maker Porsche AG is owned by Volkswagen, which in 2015 admitted to systematic manipulation of engine management software to cheat emissions tests.

Germany in late July announced a recall of affected Porsche Cayenne models after finding potentially illegal emissions controlling software in the vehicles.

Germany must eventually follow other European countries in banning new diesel cars, chancellor Angela Merkel has said, conceding for the first time that diesel's days are numbered in the wake of the emissions scandals.

Her comments followed mounting pressure on Germany's auto makers who concealed from regulators the true emissions level of diesel vehicles.


Tesla closes its first showroom in China in retail strategy shift, say sources

                SHANGHAI/BEIJING: Electric vehicle giant Tesla has closed what had been its flagship showroom in China as the company adjusts its sales and service strategy in its second-largest market, two people with knowledge of the matter said.

Tesla shut the showroom in Beijing's Parkview Green, an upscale downtown shopping centre late last week, according to the people, who spoke on condition they not be named because they were not authorised to discuss the closure.

A member of the mall's staff confirmed to Reuters during a visit to the site today that Tesla had shut the showroom, whose windows are now plastered with posters belonging to the next tenant, a streetwear brand.

"Their contract with us expired and Tesla decided not to extend it," the mall staff member said.

A call to the store earlier in the day was redirected to another Tesla showroom nearby. Tesla did not immediately reply to a request for comment.

The Beijing store, opened in 2013, was Tesla's first in China. It was renovated in 2018 and expanded to occupy two floors of the mall.

Tesla owns and runs over 200 outlets across the country that display models and arrange test drives for potential buyers.

Reuters reported in September that Tesla was considering closing some showrooms in flashy malls in cities like Beijing after traffic plunged during COVID restrictions. read more

It also plans to put more emphasis on stores in less-costly suburban locations that can also provide repairs as the company works to meet Chief Executive Elon Musk's goal of improving service for customers.

As part of that effort, Tesla has been hiring technicians and other staff for service jobs in China. The company's China recruitment website showed 305 openings for service jobs as of today, little changed from September.

More than half of Tesla's China stores do not offer repair or maintenance services and are in high-rent locations where space is limited. That included the now-closed Parkview Green Tesla store.

Tesla owns all of its own stores rather than relying on dealers. It also sells its cars online. That has allowed it more leeway to adjust a retail strategy that had been initially modeled on Apple's glossy stores in high-rent locations.

Tesla has cut starter prices for its Model 3 and Model Y cars by as much as 9% in China, reversing a trend of price increases across the industry amid signs of softening demand in the world's largest auto market. read more

Tesla sold 318,151 vehicles in China in the first nine months of 2022, up 55% from a year earlier, according the China Passenger Car Association. By comparison, overall sales of electric vehicles and hybrids increased 113.2%.


Tesla expands discounts with price cuts in Singapore, Europe and Israel

                SINGAPORE:  Tesla Inc today slashed prices for its electric vehicles in Europe, Israel and Singapore, expanding a global discount drive it began in China in January while raising concerns about its industry-leading profit margin.

Tesla last week reported first-quarter deliveries up just 4% from the previous quarter despite offering discounts in the United States, China, Japan, Australia and South Korea aimed at spurring demand.

Days after releasing the disappointing delivery data, Tesla announced its fifth vehicle price reduction this year in the U.S. market, as Washington prepares to introduce tougher standards that will limit EV tax credits.

In 2022, the world's most valuable automaker also missed CEO Elon Musk's delivery target of 50% growth, held to a 40% increase due to logistical issues and slowing demand.

Tesla said on Friday it cut prices in numerous European markets including Germany and France because of a scaling up and improvement in its production capacity.

In Germany, Tesla has lowered the price of its Model 3 and Model Y vehicles by between 4.5% and 9.8%, data on its website showed on Friday, marking its second price reduction this year after a price reduction of 1-17% in January.

In Singapore, it cut prices of its Model 3 and Model Y vehicles between 4.3% and 5%, its local website showed.

Tesla reduced prices on real-wheel drive version of both Model 3 and Model Y by S$4,000 (RM13,254), and dual motor all-wheel drive version of the two models by S$5,000 (RM16,567), its website showed.

Tesla also cut prices in Israel, with the price of the base rear-wheel drive Model 3 slashed by 25% after an initial round of global price cuts in January.

Musk has said Tesla would focus on bringing prices down to drive demand and that it had seen success in sparking orders with January's discounts.

In the United States, Tesla has cut the price of its base Model 3 by a cumulative 11% since the start of the year, with a 20% reduction on its base Model Y.

Tesla reports its first-quarter results next week.


Singer restored Porsches get Stuttgart support

                STUTTGART: Singer, an independent niche player in restored Porsches, had scored a recognition from Porsche.

Its rebuilt Porsches whose engines are restored by third party tuners, will now be done by Porsche itself.

This move, which was reported by Carscoops, would be a thumb-up to Singer's Porsche projects by the manufacturer itself.

Although Porsche sells its engines to third parties to be used in racing, the sale to Singer is different as the restorer firm is not into motorsports and more interested in Porsche original manufactured blocks and tuned to meet specifications set by Singer.

The engines will be built at the Porsche Motorsport North America (PMNA) headquarters, south of Los Angeles, California.

However, Porsche engines under the Singer DLS, or Dynamics and Lightweight Study are not included in this move and will continue to be a product of Williams Advanced Engineering in the U.K.


This Nissan can produce electricity for an emergency response

                PARIS: Nissan has presented a prototype based upon its LEAF model. It consists of an emergency vehicle capable of sharing the electricity produced by its batteries to offer aid in case of an unforeseen event.

This 100% electric car works in short as a mobile power supply that allows emergency services to function in case of extreme weather or natural disaster. Indeed, when an earthquake or a hurricane strikes, the delay to restore electric power can last for 24 to 48 hours, depending on the severity of the damage.

That's when the Re-LEAF could come in handy. This prototype features waterproof plug sockets mounted directly to the body of the car: two external C-form connectors and a domestic socket set on the truck.

Emergency electrical devices can be plugged directly into this system (up to 230 V). A jackhammer, a medical ventilator and even a kettle could thus simultaneously draw on power produced by the lithium-ion battery of the vehicle.

This prototype boasts the LEAF's bi-directional charging ability. This means that the electricity can be absorbed to charge the car's battery, but it can also share power if necessary. Nissan states that the latest iteration of the standard LEAF could provide enough electricity to power an average European household for six days.


All about Eve, the new luxury electric car from China

                AUSTIN: Tesla's latest rival comes from Chinese start-up Nio which unveiled a sleek, luxury lounge on four wheels at the recent digital event South by Southwest in Texas.

Eve is the name chosen for the self-driving showcar, scheduled to hit the US market in 2020.

The maker, which used to be known as NextEV, say the car is bound for Europe and other continents too, although it may take a while to get there.

Nio chose the music, art and media festival in Austin to unwrap the Eve as it also focuses on the interior design of upcoming hands-free cars.

Nio has revealed hardly any technical details except that the car is not driven by a combustion engine. Power comes from four electric hub motors, with storage batteries mounted low in the chassis.

The see-through roof and opaque sides of the Nio Eve give the concept a unique look straight out of a science fiction movie.

Inside the sumptuous cabin for six people there is no steering wheel or pedals to be seen. Passengers interact with a digital assistant called Nomi, which provides verbal and visual connections.

"Our cars will be your companion and will know your needs. They will be a welcoming living space that moves you," said Nio's US chief Padmasree Warrior.

Comfort is the emphasis in Eve with sofas, reclining seats, pillows, fold-out tables and deep-pile carpet. A wide forward-sliding door enables easy access.

"Nio Eve, our vision car, showcases the future of autonomous driving, the company said. "It is a digital companion, a robot on wheels and it constantly learns about its occupants and their preferences."


Perodua commits to increase component purchases by 20%

                KUALA LUMPUR: The Perodua Vendors Club, more commonly known as KVP, lauds Perodua’s commitment to increase its automotive component purchases by 20% to RM6 billion this year from RM5 billion in 2018 despite the small 0.21% total industry volume growth projected by the Malaysian Automotive Association (MAA).

Perodua president and CEO Datuk Zainal Abidin Ahmad announced this commitment during the launch of the Perodua Aruz last Tuesday.

At the same event, Zainal also announced that 95% of the Perodua Aruz’s components were locally-sourced.

“We are in full support of Perodua’s commitment to increase its component purchases notwithstanding MAA’s forecast of a marginal total industry volume increase this year.

“This commitment will further help strengthen our position as we look forward to expand together with Perodua,” KVP president Musa Zahidin Ahmad Zaidee said.

Musa also added that many of the KVP members were involved in the development of the Perodua Aruz and are now supplying the model’s components.

According to MAA, Perodua sold 227,243 vehicles, capturing 38% of the total industry volume in 2018. On a year-on-year basis, Perodua’s annual sales increased by 11% from 204,867 units in 2017.

Musa said that the KVP is also appreciative of the guidance and assistance Perodua has provided over the years to its 138 members.

“Among the key ways Perodua has assisted us is by providing shorter payment terms to our members who were affected by the acute reduction of local component purchases that began in 2014,” Musa said.

Perodua has also improved the vendors’ financial efficiency by purchasing tooling directly from international makers, eliminating the need to acquire financing.

In addition to the financial assistance given by Perodua, Daihatsu Motor Company of Japan has also played a critical role in helping local vendors and has recently appointed at least two local vendors to be part of its global supply chain.

Daihatsu has also given its commitment to continue to support Perodua and its local vendors as Perodua looks to the Asia-Pacific region for growth, Musa said.


BMW’s hydrogen babysteps keep fuel-cell cars in slow lane

                MUNICH: BMW AG is showing off its first hydrogen-powered iX5 sport utility vehicles this year but still has some way to go to make the technology a viable alternative to battery-electric cars.

The German manufacturer plans to ship around 80 of the SUVs to Europe, Asia, the US and the Middle East for use in test drives and car shows, part of a drive to offer customers options outside of pure battery cars in the electric shift.

Hydrogen vehicles are struggling to take off because of high costs and a fledgling fueling infrastructure.

"Hydrogen is a versatile energy source that has a key role to play in the energy transition process and therefore in climate protection,” BMW chief executive officer Oliver Zipse said in a statement.

"One technology on its own will not be enough to enable climate-neutral mobility.”

That BMW’s test fleet remains small is a reflection of the difficulties hydrogen cars - a technology companies have worked on for decades - have been having breaking into the mainstream.

Only around 60,000 of them are on the roads, with Hyundai Motor Co.’s Nexo the bestseller last year.

That compares with a fleet of roughly 19 million battery-electric vehicles, according to BloombergNEF estimates.

Fuel-cell systems still struggle to compete with lithium-ion batteries on costs even after the EV industry saw the first increase in pack prices last year since BNEF began tracking them in 2010.

Mercedes-Benz AG has phased out the hydrogen-powered variant of its GLC SUV it built in small batches.

While Honda Motor Co. stopped production of its Clarity hydrogen model in 2021, it has announced plans to start production of a fuel-cell vehicle in the US in 2024.

BMW is weighing to start serial production of hydrogen models in the second half of this decade, but any sales push makes sense only once adequate infrastructure becomes available, said Frank Weber, the carmaker’s technology chief.

Just 750 hydrogen refuelling stations were in operation globally last year, according to the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory researcher.

Getting the hydrogen-powered iX5 in front of the public is one way of highlighting the technology’s strong points, BMW said.

Filling up the iX5 with hydrogen takes only four minutes, compared with about 30 minutes for charging the most advanced battery-powered vehicles.

BMW expects the adoption of hydrogen long-haul trucks to speed up installations of refuelling stations, in a boon also to passenger cars. The company hopes that the cost of fuel-cell components comes down once hydrogen rigs are produced at scale.

"We are confident that at the end of the decade, prices for an electric vehicle with a larger battery and fuel cell cars will be on par,” Weber said.

Still, BMW’s small test fleet suggests the German company isn’t expecting larger-scale adoption anytime soon.

It’s also keeping the vehicles on a tight leash: aside from company-organised test drives, the cars won’t be handed out to drivers for everyday use.

"Fuel-cell cars are always going to be more expensive than battery-powered ones,” said BNEF analyst Martin Tengler.

"Maybe BMW is targeting a niche segment, there might some money to be made. But the big picture is that it’s best to leave hydrogen cars where they have always been - just around the corner.”


PSA Group: See, we are upfront with our real-world fuel consumption data

                PARIS: The PSA Group has published real-world fuel consumption data for 1,000 Peugeot, Citroën and DS cars

The measurements obtained on 58 PSA models make it possible to estimate the consumption in real-world driving conditions for more than 1,000 versions of Peugeot, Citroën and DS vehicles. For each model, the estimations have been made using the same engine and gearbox, plus three variants: body type, trim level and tyre dimensions.

The measurement results were based on the test protocol established with Transport & Environment (T&E) and France Nature Environment (FNE). The measurements were made under the supervision of the Bureau Veritas certification organisation, which has certified the accuracy and integrity of the results.

On the occasion of the Geneva Motor Show, Peugeot, Citroën and DS brands offer to their customers the possibility to check their average consumption in real-world driving conditions by logging onto their respective websites. A web-based application will allow them to view this data for their model by entering its characteristics (body type, trim level, engine, gearbox and type of tyres).

Additionally, each client will be able to estimate own consumption based on the actual use of his vehicle (number of passengers, load, driving style, etc.).

The application is available on the brands website in six countries: France, Germany, Britain, Italy, Spain and Switzerland. It will then be available progressively in the rest of Europe.

Building on the European RDE "Real Driving Emissions" project, the protocol measures fuel consumption using a portable emissions measurement system installed on the vehicle.

The readings for the 58 models have been made on public roads (23km on urban roads, 40km on the open road and 30km on motorways) under real driving conditions (air conditioning, luggage and passengers, hilly terrain, etc.).


Stellantis says it's 'no dinosaur' as it steps up electric ambitions

Stellantis is now the world’s fourth largest carmaker, with 14 brands. — Reuters
MILAN/PARIS: Newly-formed Stellantis, a combination of Peugeot-maker PSA and Fiat Chrysler (FCA), wants to use its clout to take on rivals racing to produce more electric vehicles, chief executive Carlos Tavares said on Wednesday.

Stellantis is now the world’s fourth largest carmaker, with 14 brands including Opel, Jeep, Ram and Maserati, and like its peers, it is grappling with a shortage of semiconductors and investments in electric vehicles.

Low global car inventories and cost cuts should help boost profit margins this year, though the carmaker is also looking beyond savings, Tavares said.

“This is not a crisis merger,” he told an analyst conference, after Stellantis forecast higher profitability for 2021 and PSA and Fiat which merged in January reported better-than-expected results for 2020.

“This is a merger that is going to open new opportunities for a company that is sound, with talented people ... who do not want to be cornered in a legacy or a dinosaur position.”

Stellantis aims to deliver over 5 billion euros a year in savings through the merger, as well as bulking up to face industry challenges.

Automakers are racing to develop electric vehicles to meet tighter CO2 emissions targets in Europe and this week Volvo joined a growing number of carmakers aiming for a fully-electric line-up by 2030.

Stellantis plans to have fully-electric or hybrid versions of all of its vehicles available in Europe by 2025, broadly in line with plans at top rivals such as Volkswagen and Renault-Nissan, although Stellantis has further to go to meet that goal.

The group said 2021 results should be helped by three new high-margin Jeep vehicles in North America and a strong pricing environment there. The US market has driven profits for years at FCA and starts off as the strongest part of Stellantis.

The carmaker is targeting an adjusted operating profit margin of 5.5%-7.5% this year.

That compares with a 5.3% aggregated margin last year: 4.3% at FCA and 7.1% at PSA excluding a controlling stake in parts maker Faurecia, which is set to be spun-off from Stellantis shortly.

Tavares said he did not consider the guidance to be cautious. It assumes no more significant lockdowns caused by the global Covid-19 pandemic, but the executive warned of other headwinds including the rising price of raw materials.

The industry is being squeezed by a Covid-19-related global shortage of semiconductors, used for everything from maximising engine fuel economy to driver-assistance features.

Tavares said the problems might not be fully resolved by the second half of 2021, as some auto rivals have flagged, describing supplies as the “big unknown” for revenues in 2021.

The group is now working through reorganising some of its factory set-ups, though it has pledged to close no plants, and finalising new management teams.

Priorities for 2021 will also include defining a strategy for China, Tavares said, where some Stellantis brands have struggled more than rivals.

Tavares, who previously ran PSA, achieved an improvement in margins at the French carmaker by cutting costs, simplifying its vehicle line-up and delivering synergies on its purchase of Opel/Vauxhall, a strategy investors hope he can replicate.

Combined adjusted earnings before interest and tax (EBIT) amounted to 7.1 billion euros ($8.6 billion) at the group last year. At the end of 2020, combined liquidity stood at 57.4 billion euros and free cash flow at 3.3 billion euros.

Stellantis is planning a capital markets day for late 2021 or early 2022.


Kuhl Racing buffs up Toyota 86

                TOKYO: Some of the handiwork by Japanese tuner Kuhl Racing can be seen on the Nissan GT-R, Suzuki Swift, Toyota Vellfire/Alphard and Prius.

One of its latest showpieces is based on the Toyota 86. It has begun selling a wide body kit for the 86, which features flared front and rear wheel arches. The kit has the effect of widening the front end to 40mm and the rear to 50mm.

The front lip spoiler and side lip spoiler have been moulded in a two-step design to make the car look wide and racy. The front spoiler and custom cooling ducts are also positioned tp optimise downforce and brake cooling.

The rear includes a carbon fibre wing and the back bumper is up to 150mm in depth and large ducting enhances the sporty look.

The aero parts are made of fibre-reinforced polymer aero material.


Betting on death of petrol cars, Volvo to go all electric by 2030

                LONDON: Volvo’s entire car line-up will be fully electric by 2030, the Chinese-owned company said today, joining a growing number of carmakers planning to phase out fossil-fuel engines by the end of this decade.

“I am totally convinced there will no customers who really want to stay with a petrol engine,” Volvo chief executive Håkan Samuelsson told reporters when asked about future demand for electric vehicles. “We are convinced that an electric car is more attractive for customers.”

The Swedish carmaker said 50% of its global sales should be fully-electric cars by 2025 and the other half hybrid models.

Owned by Hangzhou-based Zhejiang Geely Holding Group, Volvo said it will launch a new family of electric cars in the next few years, all of which will be sold online only. Volvo will unveil its second all-electric model, the C40, later today.

Samuelsson said Volvo will include wireless upgrades and fixes for its new electric models - an approach pioneered by electric carmaker Tesla Inc.

Carmakers are racing to switch to zero-emission models as they face CO2 emissions targets in Europe and China, plus looming bans in some countries on fossil fuel vehicles.

Last month, Ford Motor Co said its line-up in Europe will be fully electric by 2030, while Tata Motors unit Jaguar Land Rover said its luxury Jaguar brand will be entirely electric by 2025 and the carmaker will launch electric models of its entire line-up by 2030.

And last November, luxury carmaker Bentley, owned by Germany’s Volkswagen, said its models will be all electric by 2030.

Electrification is expensive for carmakers and as electric vehicles have fewer moving parts, employment in the auto industry is expected to shrink.

Last week, the head of Daimler AG’s truck division said going electric will cost thousands of jobs in the company’s powertrain plants in Germany.

Volvo said it will invest heavily in online sales channels to “radically reduce” the complexity of its model line-up and provide customers with transparent pricing.

The carmaker’s global network of 2,400 traditional bricks-and-mortar dealers will remain open to service vehicles and to help customers make online orders.

Via volvocars.com customers will be able to choose from a simplified range of pre-configured electric Volvos for quick delivery - but they will still be able to order custom-made models.


Polestar 1 enters final prototype stage before production starts

CHENGDU (China): Initial Polestar 1 customers have started the process of confirming their final specification as the Electric Performance Hybrid takes the final steps towards production.

This landmark moment comes as the bespoke new Polestar Production Centre here is currently producing tooling try-out cars (TT) which are the final prototype vehicles before pre-production and customer production cars are built.

“It’s great to see how we have progressed from showing the Polestar 1 for the first time in 2017, to now having our beautiful new manufacturing facility up and running with the TT cars being tested in and around the plant,” said Polestar CEO Thomas Ingenlath.

The TT prototype series, which includes around 50 cars thus far, is used to fine-tune production methods and for evaluation of tooling implementation, ensuring that the manufacturing and assembly processes work as intended, before customer car production begins.

“Now we enable our loyal customers to secure their final specification for their car, knowing that we are going to give them an awesome GT that is built to the highest levels of quality, fit and finish.”

The Polestar Production Centre here is in its final stages of completion and is due to be open later in 2019.


Singapore to halt car population growth from next year

                SINGAPORE: Singapore, one of the world’s most expensive places to own a vehicle, will not allow any growth in its car population from February, citing the small city-state’s land scarcity and billions of dollars in planned public transport investments.

The Land Transport Authority (LTA) said it was cutting the permissible vehicle growth rate in the city-state to 0 percent from the current 0.25 percent per annum for cars and motorcycles. The rate will be reviewed in 2020.

Singapore tightly controls its vehicle population by setting an annual growth rate and through a system of bidding for the right to own and use a vehicle for a limited number of years. It is one of the most densely populated nations on the planet and already has an extensive public transport system.

Currently, 12 percent of Singapore’s total land area is taken up by roads, the LTA said. “In view of land constraints and competing needs, there is limited scope for further expansion of the road network,” it said.

Singapore, whose total population has risen nearly 40 percent since 2000 to about 5.6 million now, counted more than 600,000 private and rental cars on its roads as of last year. These include cars used by drivers that work with ride-hailing services such as Grab and Uber, which are becoming increasingly popular.

A mid-range car in Singapore can typically cost four times the price in the United States.

Singapore has expanded its rail network length by 30 percent and has added new routes and capacity in its bus network. The government will continue to invest S$20bil (RM62bil) in new rail infrastructure, S$4bil (RM12.4bil) to renew, upgrade and expand rail operating assets, and another S$4bil in bus contracting subsidies over the next five years, the LTA said.

The LTA will keep the growth rate for goods vehicles and buses at 0.25 per cent until the first quarter of 2021.


Lexus LC 500 and LC 500h evolved

                DALLAS: The Lexus LC 500 is in a constant state of evolution and as such, the LC coupe receives key refinements in 2021 to further cement the connection between driver and machine.

The 2021 LC 500 coupe is the sharpest, most evolved LC to date, and the story of its evolution is one of both addition and subtraction.

What gets subtracted is a reduction of nearly 10kg of unsprung weight, which engineers accomplish with changes highlighted by using aluminum lower suspension arms, lighter suspension stabilisers with a hollow design and revised diameter, new high-strength coil spring material, and lighter 21-inch rear wheels.

To enhance vehicle controls at mid- to high-speed ranges the 2021 LC’s Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) is enhanced with Active Cornering Assist (ACA). This system helps control cornering by providing brake control to the inner wheels in accordance with lateral acceleration when G-force demands are greater during spirited driving.

Logic changes to the 10-speed automatic Direct-Shift transmission on the V8-powered LC 500 help provide enhancement for daily driving in what engineers refer to as the “active zone,” or the area where most drivers find themselves at in the 50-70% throttle range.

The Direct-Shift transmission allows the engine rpm to expand in this range to accentuate the feeling of acceleration before shifting into the next gear.

Engineers also updated the downshifting model on the 500h Multi-Stage Hybrid System, as it now will downshift into second gear instead of third to allow for smoother operation and more robust acceleration out of hairpin turns.

Thundering through the variable Active Exhaust, the 5.0-litre, naturally aspirated V8 issues a full-throated engine note as a call to driving enthusiasts.

The LC 500 has an output of 471hp and 541Nm of peak torque. The LC is also capable of delivering a 0-to-100kph time of 4.4 seconds and up to a manufacturer estimated 9.4 l/100km on the highway.

The powerful 5.0-litre is paired with a 10-speed Direct-Shift automatic transmission. The updated 10-speed is refinement to further evoke the performance of the V8 engine and provide an even more direct connection of driver to machine.

The LC 500h Multi-stage Hybrid System teams the gasoline engine with two electric motor/generators.

An Atkinson-cycle 3.5-liter V6 gasoline engine utilizes D-4S direct fuel injection for optimum efficiency while the lightweight valvetrain with Dual VVT-i ensures ample torque across the engine speed range.

Moreover, the system keeps the planetary-type continuously variable transmission from Lexus Hybrid Synergy Drive and adds a unique four-speed automatic transmission. Working in concert, the two gearsets alter output in four stages to utilize the V6 engine across the entire speed range.

The Lexus Safety System+ (LSS+) comes standard on every LC 500 and LC 500h for 2021. LSS+ features Lane Departure Alert with Lane Keep Assist (LKA).

Pre-Collision System (PCS) with Pedestrian Detection is standard and includes features such as Frontal Collision Warning (FCW), Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) and Pedestrian Detection.

All-Speed Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC) is also included, as is Intelligent High Beam that will default to high-beam mode when the road ahead is clear but will temporarily switch to low beams when headlamps or taillamps are detected.

Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) and Side Mirrors with BSM Indicator is standard on every LC 500 and LC 500h.


Hyundai to develop mini electric car, electric scooter, says Korean daily

                SEOUL: Hyundai Motor will start developing a one-seater electric car and an electric scooter, according to a media report, as the South Korean automaker seeks to expand into the burgeoning "smart mobility" industry.

Devising smarter ways to get around - known in the industry as smart mobility - looks set to become a new battleground for automakers as urbanisation grows, pollution worsens, and more cars clog up cities in emerging markets.

The plan is part of Hyundai's future mobility project IONIQ unveiled by the automaker's heir apparent and vice chairman Chung Eui-sun at the Geneva auto show on Tuesday, said Korea Economic Daily, citing a company official.

Hyundai is also working on a wearable robot to help senior citizens move around, the report said. A Hyundai spokesman declined to comment on the report.


Hot zone parking system in local councils gets thumbs-up

                PETALING JAYA: Finding street or municipal parking bays in any commercial area in the Klang Valley is like looking for a needle in a haystack.

In many areas, bays are taken up by shop owners and office workers as it is often the most affordable parking available.

This means the bays are fully occupied until the end of the day, depriving customers and visitors of places to park.

In view of this, the Selangor government has issued a directive for local councils to implement a two-hour parking system (or hot zone parking) in certain sections of busy commercial areas aimed at improving parking space usage.

Subang Jaya City Council (MBSJ) was the first to implement the ruling with Petaling Jaya City Council (MBPJ) and Ampang and Klang municipal councils following suit.

Selangor local government, public transportation and new village development committee chairman Ng Sze Han said there was good response from the public and shop owners in Subang Jaya where the two-hour parking system was introduced.

“Business has improved, as it is easier to find parking, especially for restaurants where customers need about an hour for lunch.

“There was some confusion during the initial stage (of implementation) but the feedback since then has been positive,” he told StarMetro.

Ng said more operators in commercial areas in Selangor were requesting for “hot zone parking” to be implemented.

In areas where hot zone parking was already in place, he said the number of bays would be increased.

He added that the zone expansion under MBSJ would take place next month.

Calls for enforcement

Motorist Chen Fong Chin, 46, said nowadays, she did not dread having to run errands in Bandar Puteri Puchong, Subang Jaya, since the system was introduced.

The accountant said there would always be at least one or two vacant bays.

“Previously, I would have to circle around for 20 to 30 minutes hoping for a parking bay to open up,” she said.

Chen added that although she did have to ask someone about how to pay for the designated parking with the mobile app, it was now more convenient to run errands.

A frequent visitor to SS15, R. Sivakumar lauded the two-hour parking initiative but said better enforcement was needed.

“I have sometimes seen vehicles parked in the designated parking bays beyond two hours.

“Only enforcement officers can check if anyone has gone past the time limit so unless they are there, people will continue to try to skirt the rules,” he said.

Fahria Muhsin, when met at the Ampang Point commercial area, said introducing the two-hour parking system in high-traffic areas was a good idea.

“By 8am, most of the public parking bays here are taken up mostly by office workers.

“I had a hospital appointment nearby and wanted to park in the area but it was already full.

“I ended up circling the area four times before finding a spot,” the 27-year-old said.

Field engineer Sallehin Nordin, 33, said having designated bays with a time limit was much needed for those running quick errands.

“Not only here (in Ampang), but most city and commercial areas are facing the same problem.

“Allocating a few bays with a time limit will help bring customers into the area and not deprive those who need the cheaper parking at the same time.”

Plans to expand

In Subang Jaya, some 2,302 bays have been designated for hot zone parking.

MBSJ corporate and strategic management department deputy director Azfarizal Abdul Rashid said the hot zone parking system has had a positive impact as it has resulted in low occupancy for the bays.

“This gives more users an opportunity to park in the area.

“Motorists have been complying but compounds and towing can be carried out when rules are not followed,” he said.

On March 22, MBPJ introduced the hot zone parking system at the Section 52 commercial area.

Petaling Jaya mayor Mohamad Azhan Md Amir was reported saying that MBPJ would extend the two-hour parking limit to the Section 14 and SS21 Damansara Utama commercial areas by end of May.

In Ampang Jaya, the two-hour parking limit has been introduced in only one area – the busy Jalan Memanda commercial district – nearby Ampang Point mall.

Although 10 bays were designated as hot zone parking bays since February, enforcement only begins this month.

MPAJ public relations and secretariat division head Norhayati Ahmad said leeway was given to raise awareness on the new system.

“MPAJ did not issue any compounds or tow vehicles that did not abide by the two-hour parking limit as long as users paid the parking charges,” she said.

“We have given time for visitors to get used to the idea and will start enforcement.”

She said users could choose the “two-hour parking” option when using the Smart Selangor and Flexi parking apps.

“There will be frequent checks by enforcement officers to make sure the bays are not misused.”

MPAJ intends to expand the hot zone parking system involving 10 bays in the Taman Melawati commercial area sometime this year, Norhayati said.

According to MPAJ records, 45,412 parking compound tickets were issued as at March 15.

It was previously reported that the Selayang Municipal Council (MPS) also has plans to introduce a two-hour limit for on-street parking.

Two bays per road will be reserved in 14 high-traffic areas.

According to an MPS spokesperson, the council had submitted the list of proposed locations to the Selangor government to endorse, and it was still in the process of gazetting the amendment to the Road Transport Order (Parking Space Allocation) MPS 2007.


PLUS releases travel advisory for Chinese New Year

                PETALING JAYA: In anticipation of the increase in traffic on highways during the Chinese New Year period, PLUS Malaysia Berhad has issued a travel time advisory (TTA) to ease traffic flow leading up to the celebration.

PLUS expects daily traffic to increase from 1.4 million vehicles to 1.6 million during the festive period from Jan 28 to Feb 6.

For those planning to use the North-South Expressway, those leaving the Klang Valley to northern destinations like Perlis, Kedah, Penang and North Perak are advised to enter the highway before 10am.

This also applies to highway customers heading towards Johor in the south.

As for those who are travelling from the north to the Klang Valley, they are advised to start their journey before 9am.

For destinations closer to the Klang Valley, road users are advised to plan their journey to enter highways after 1pm.

PLUS chief operating officer Datuk Zakaria Ahmad Zabidi encouraged travellers to follow the TTA in order to avoid congestion as it can prevent vehicles heading to various destinations from converging at various locations along the highway.

Saying that Chinese New Year is a long-awaited joyous occasion, Zakaria reminded highway users to not let their guard down and maintain Covid-19 standard operating procedure – especially when stopping at the rest and service areas (R&R) and lay-bys.

“MySejahtera scans are still required and dining-in is allowed for fully vaccinated customers while physical distancing must be adhered to,” he said in a statement today.

Zakaria also reminded motorists to drive safely during bad weather and to be alert, adding that getting enough rest and sleep is important before starting the journey.

He also said that vehicular maintenance was vital to increase safety on highways.

“Seat belts are strongly encouraged for all passengers sitting at the back.

“Child safety seats are also important to protect the little ones,” he said, adding that road users should always follow speed limits.

He added that PLUSRonda highway patrol teams would be at hand to assist in any eventuality and can be contacted via the PLUSLine at 1-800 880 000 at any time.

“To ensure a seamless and smooth journey as one enters and exits the toll highways, ensure that the Touch ‘n Go card and Touch ‘n Go RFID e-Wallet have sufficient balance at all times.

“The latest traffic updates are available from the PLUS App journey planner CCTV function, PLUSTrafik Twitter and Putri (PLUS Unique Texting Realtime Interface) chatbot as well as highway electronic messaging signs.

“Highway customers are encouraged to use Waze or Google Maps to navigate their journey as well,” he added.


Afghan firm eyes emerging middle class with new cars, trucks

A man checking out the hybrid solar-powered vehicles made by Amin Noor. — Reuters
KABUL: An Afghan company has unveiled a range of small trucks and passenger vans which it hopes will appeal to a local market still dominated by second-hand Japanese models imported via Dubai.

The firm, Amin Noor, presented the vehicles at a ceremony in the capital Kabul, a reminder that in a country beset by militant violence and political instability there are companies working hard to tap a small but growing middle class.

Beyond the security challenges, firms also face the added hurdle of power cuts that are a regular occurrence across Afghanistan.

 A journalist sitting inside a hybrid solar-powered car. — AFP

“The overall cost is much cheaper than those products we import to Afghanistan,” Economy Minister Mustafa Mastoor said at the ceremony, where white vans, trucks and cars were decorated in red ribbon.

Some were electric and powered by rechargeable batteries, others by diesel.

“We are confident that the Afghan market will welcome these type of products, not only from Amin Noor company but all other investors if they come and invest in quality products.”

 A worker cleaning another variant of the  hybrid solar-powered car. — AFP

There are 11 different models in total, priced between US$1,200 (RM4,980) and US$2,500 (around RM11,000). Amin Noor has produced 200 vehicles to date.

For company manager Ahmad Zia Ahmadyar, the next phase for Amin Noor — which produces vehicles at its factory in Balkh province in the north of Afghanistan — was to reduce the number of parts that needed importing.

 Another angle of the vehicles. — AFP


Honda hires US engineering firm Exponent to probe Takata air bags

                TOKYO: Honda Motor Co has hired Exponent, a US-based engineering consulting company enlisted by Toyota Motor Corp during its recall crisis in 2010, to investigate the cause of ruptures in some air bags made by Takata Corp.

The hiring of Exponent was first reported by Japan's Jiji News today and confirmed by a Honda spokesman here.

A consortium of 10 automakers led by Toyota and which includes Honda has separately commissioned engineering firm Orbital ATK to conduct independent testing of Takata's air bag inflators, which can rupture with too much force, shooting metal shards into vehicles.

Six deaths have been linked to the problem so far, all on Honda cars.

About 25 million vehicles with Takata air bags have been recalled worldwide since 2008.