Volvo AD cars to start rolling on British roads

LONDON: Volvo Cars is taking steps to begin autonomous driving (AD) trials in the UK next year - dubbed Drive Me London, in order to help accelerate its introduction to help reduce the frequency of accidents, congested roads and commuting times.The Swedish car maker that invented the three-point seat belt in 1959, is pioneering the development of AD systems globally as part of its commitment to eradicate the possibility of people being seriously injured or killed in a new Volvo by 2020.Drive Me London will differentiate itself from other AD programmes by using real families driving AD cars on public roads (rather than on test tracks) as its source to further develop the technology and make it suitable for real world driving conditions.Thatcham Research will be providing technical data analysis and professional test drivers when needed as part of the trialThe trail looks to start in early 2017, with a limited number of semi-autonomous driving cars that will be further expanded in 2018 to include up to 100 AD cars - making it the largest and most extensive AD testing programme on Britain’s streets.The introduction of AD cars promises to revolutionise Britain’s roads in four main areas – safety, congestion, pollution and time saving.Independent research has revealed that AD has the potential to reduce the number of car accidents by up to 30% with up to 90% of all accidents presently caused by driver error or distraction.Thatcham Research chief executive Peter Shaw said: “Vehicle manufacturers are predicting that highly autonomous vehicles, capable of allowing the driver to drop ‘out of the loop’ for certain sections of their journey, will be available from around 2021. Without doubt, crash frequency will also dramatically reduce. We’ve already seen this with the adoption of Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) on many new cars."Research in the US by NHTSA predicts that by 2035, as a result of autonomous and connected cars, crashes will be reduced by 80%. Additionally, if a crash unfortunately can’t be avoided, then the impact speed will also drop as a result of the system’s performance - reducing the severity of the crash.”In terms of congestion, AD cars allow traffic to move more smoothly, reducing traffic jams and by extension cutting dangerous emissions and associated pollution, while saving valuable time.Volvo Cars president and chief executive Håkan Samuelsson said that there are multiple benefits to AD cars“That is why governments globally need to put in place the legislation and infrastructure to allow AD cars onto the streets as soon as possible. The car industry cannot do it all by itself. We need governmental help.”He added that AD cars are very much a "leap forward" in terms of car safety and "the sooner AD cars are on the roads, the sooner lives will start being saved.”


Hyundai reveals new-generation Santa Fe

SEOUL: The all-new fourth-generation Hyundai Santa Fe has just been revealed by the South Korean automaker, and it's now taking a somewhat surprising turn in the incredibly important US market.

That's because as well as the Santa Fe Sport name being dropped in favour of just Santa Fe, the new version of the company's best-selling SUV will be offered with a diesel powertrain over there for the first time.

There will still be two versions of the Santa Fe with different wheelbases, but the smaller of the two will now just be called the Santa Fe and the long-wheelbase version will now be called the Santa Fe XL.

But if even the XL isn't big enough for your needs, Hyundai has also confirmed another, all-new, three-row, eight-passenger SUV is now in the development stage and will be an entirely new nameplate for the Hyundai brand.

Official images of the new Santa Fe reveal a look that's a little more SUV and a little less crossover than we're used to. The all-new fourth-generation model appears bigger, wider and more muscular than the model it replaces. There's plenty of large glass for improved visibility, and on the inside there's a new instrument panel with an almost 3D look about it, and a repositioned infotainment screen that's been designed to reduce unwanted glare.

It's not clear what engines will be offered with the new Santa Fe in Europe and Asia, but in the US it will give buyers a choice between two petrols and a diesel. The 2.2-litre diesel sounds a lot like the unit that all current Santa Fe models in Europe have under the hood at the moment, but whether the 2.4-litre four-cylinder and 2.0-litre turbo-four engines the Americans will be offered are made available elsewhere remains to be seen.

The fourth-generation Santa Fe will get its full public debut at the Geneva Motor Show on March 6. Sales in Europe will start in summer, with sales in the US expected to begin a little later in the third quarter of 2018.


The Volkswagen Golf's new petrol engine is as efficient as a diesel

                WOLFSBURG: Volkswagen has developed an engine: the new 1.5 TSI ACT BlueMotion with an output of 130PS and is currently already powering the Golf.

Volkswagen claims this petrol engine is like no other before it: a petrol engine that offers diesel-like fuel economy but is significantly cheaper to buy and on a journey occasionally switches off two of its four cylinders or even takes a complete break.

In the future, the efficient 1.5 TSI ACT BlueMotion will also be available for other Volkswagen models.

The combined fuel consumption of a Golf 1.5 TSI ACT BlueMotion is just 4.8 l/100 km. Volkswagen achieves this benefit through the new TSI Miller combustion process and the use of a high-tech turbocharger with variable turbine geometry (VTG).

Whenever possible, Active Cylinder Management – called ACT for short – deactivates the two inner cylinders. It always does this at times when power demand is low.

The deactivation function operates within an engine speed range of 1,400rpm to 4,000 rpm and at vehicle speeds up to 130kph.

The driver is made aware of the barely perceptible changeover from four to two-cylinder operation by the "2‑cylinder mode" notification in the instrument display.

The 1.5 TSI ACT BlueMotion achieves an extra level of innovation when combined with the seven-speed DSG dual clutch gearbox.

As soon as the driver lets the Volkswagen 'coast', i.e. predictively releases the accelerator pedal for conditions ahead or is going down a slight slope, the engine management system switches off the TSI completely and decouples it from the drivetrain by disengaging the clutch.

In this phase, the engine no longer needs to be "dragged along"; the use of the vehicle's kinetic energy is thus optimized.

In parallel with the cylinder deactivation and complete engine shut-off, a further feature of the 1.5 TSI ACT BlueMotion is the previously mentioned new TSI Miller cycle combustion process.

This entails the use of optimized valvetrain control (early closure of inlet valves) – combined with higher compression and turbocharging.

It innovatively controls combustion of the fuel and air mixture, which leads to an improvement in efficiency of up to 10%.

Within the foreseeable future, Volkswagen will be launching further derivatives of the 1.5 TSI ACT BlueMotion in global markets.


3M Car Detailing shines like no other

                KUALA LUMPUR: Maintaining a meticulously kept vehicle not only protects a much loved set of wheels, but it also gives vehicle owners a strong sense of pride.

This is where a professional car detailing centre such as TMCC Autoline Sdn Bhd, which has trained personnel for cleaning and detailing your vehicle, can help.

TMCC Autoline, located in Kepong is a 3M authorised auto detailer that offers services including 3M Paint Coating Protection, 3M Trizact Abrasives and 3M Perfect-It EX Paint Finishing System, and 3M Headlight Restoration System.

3M Paint Coating Protection – Silica Coating Protection: Recommended Retail Price from RM1,488

Prolonged exposure to harmful rays, air pollutants and unpredictable weather conditions in Malaysia will damage your vehicle’s paint finish.

Offering a showroom-quality finish, the 3M Paint Coating Protection features a silica coating paint protection which cannot be removed easily.

This helps to ensure that your vehicle continues to sparkle and look brand-new.

Most importantly, 3M Paint Coating Protection offers a significant advantage over a conventional car wax or paint sealant in keeping your paint noticeably cleaner in between regular washes.

The 3M Paint Coating Protection offers advantages in car paint protection such as:

- Hydrophobic and water repelling for easy cleaning and maintenance
- Cost-saving and time-efficient on polishing and waxing
- Enhance vehicle’s resale value
- Improve paint durability, maintains vehicle paint in showroom condition
- Achieve longer lasting shine, gloss and paint protection
- Highly resistant against air pollutants and oxidation from Ultraviolet (UV) rays
- User-friendly, polish-on technology for easy and effective application
- Comprehensive warranty and after-sales maintenance.

3M Trizact Abrasives and 3M Perfect-It EX Paint Finishing System: Recommended Retail Price from RM700

This can achieve a perfect finish with 3M’s best finishing systems.

3MTM Trizact Abrasives used in paint defect removal and refinement can help reduce compounding and buffing time.

These abrasives consist of precisely-shaped three-dimensional pyramids distributed uniformly over the surface of the disc.

As these pyramids wear, fresh, sharp mineral is constantly exposed to the working piece, resulting in faster, more consistent cutting throughout the life of the discs.

3M Perfect-It EX Paint Finishing System delivers optimal performance every time when it comes restoring car paint.

It uses unique formulas to quickly remove scratches and other surface defects.

Additional wet time with these products allow the usage of minimum material and the easy clean up feature helps reduce process time.

The advantages include:

- Paint defects removal and refinement
- Eliminates fine swirl marks permanently
- Removes minor scratches, dirt and other marks from car surfaces
- Removes the orange peel effect from factory paint to even out the surfaces
- Restores car paint with the shine and high gloss similar to a mirror effect

3M Headlight Restoration System: Recommended Retail Price from RM330

The 3M Headlight Restoration System can restore the clarity to headlights, tail lights, fog and directional lights that have become yellowed, cloudy or hazed over time.

Headlight lenses have either a hard surface layer or a UV resistant coating on the outer surface of the lens.

Once a lens has been degraded by sun or UV light and becomes yellowed or cloudy, it is necessary to remove that yellowed layer in order to restore clarity to the lenses.

 Before 3M Headlight Restoration treatment.

More importantly, most headlights can be restored by 3M Headlight Restoration System, which costs a fraction of the price of lens replacement and the entire process takes only less than an hour to complete.

The advantages include:

- Restores plastic headlight covers to like-new condition for a fraction of the cost
- Increases road safety with enhanced visibility
- Provides long lasting protection for your headlight covers with 12 months warranty

 3M Headlight Restoration treatment. After 3M Headlight Restoration treatment.

For details, visit TMCC Autoline Sdn Bhd at No. 22A, Ground Floor, Jalan Rimbunan Raya, Laman Rimbunan, Kepong, Kuala Lumpur or call 03-6251 1288.

Other authorised 3M Autocare centres are:

- Mnergy Auto Spa
25G, Jalan Puteri 2/6,
Bandar Puteri, Puchong.
Tel: 03-80527899

- TGAC Autocare
9-12-G, Jalan Jalil Perkasa 5,
Aked Esplanad, Bukit Jalil,
Kuala Lumpur.
Tel: 03-89991038


Scania in Malaysia starts sales of battery electric trucks

                SHAH ALAM: Scania in Malaysia has begun the sales of the much-awaited battery electric truck.

Available for viewing at Scania Malaysia Bukit Jelutong, the electric trucks are aimed at helping customers meet their Environment, Social and Governance (ESG) goals.

The vehicles are offered in both rigid truck and trailer tractor configurations.

The vehicles are equipped with a brand new driveline, improved batteries, faster and more powerful charging capabilities and get a 350km range at 40 tonnes load and 250km range at 64 tonnes max gross tonnage weight (GTW).

The new triple electric machine powertrain also provides ample electromechanical power take-off (PTO), ensuring smooth and reliable operation of temperature-controlled transports or power-hungry applications such as hook lifts.

The battery packs are now assembled in-house at Scania, to perfectly fit both the strengthened chassis and the new placement of the charging interface, on the right-hand side behind the driver's door.

Closely connected is the completely reworked heating and cooling system, keeping powertrain and battery components at their perfect operating temperature, and allowing excellent fingertips control of the cabin climate through our digital platforms.

The aerodynamics of the cab has also been further improved with wind deflector extensions to ensure every bit of energy provides the maximum distance and range.

 Heba.

Scania Southeast Asia managing director Heba El Tarifi said Scania has a wide range of products and services to address customers’ ESG objectives.

“One of them is Scania Ecolution way-of-working with our customers to reduce CO2 emissions over the years.

“Now with battery-electric solutions, Scania continues to be a proud leader in driving the shift towards a sustainable transport system with our customers,” she said.

Meanwhile, Mekar Angkut Sdn Bhd chairman Che Ibrahim Che Ismail said Scania had made it easier to adopt battery electric solutions through a consultative sales process.

“From charging to battery warranty, from financing to insurances, from repair and maintenance contract to driver training; the battery electric truck from Scania is optimised to suit my operations. I look forward to working more with Scania towards getting one,” he said.


Aston Martin makes foray into S. Korea

                SEOUL: Aston Martin will open its first showroom in the South Korean capital, Seoul.

Operated by Kiheung International Limited Company the new dealership will comprise a state-of-the-art 1,500 square metre facility at 235 Banpo Street, Seocho-gu in Seoul.

Set to open to customers in April 2015, the new showroom becomes Aston Martin’s first and only official dealership in South Korea and signals the British sport car brand’s ambition to expand its sales and service operations to cover more of the world’s key luxury markets.

CEO of the new dealership, Mr Lee Kei Wung, said: “I am honored to be able to launch Aston Martin in the Korean market.

“As befits this great British luxury sports car brand, Aston Martin Seoul will strive to constantly exceed our customers’ expectations in every way.”

He added: “The new dealership we are establishing here will provide exceptional aftersales service. In fact, our technicians have already completed the detailed and rigorous Aston Martin training course in England.

“We will do everything possible to offer a complete one-stop ‘shop’ for all things Aston Martin: from new and pre-owned car sales to the highest quality after-sales service.”

Welcoming the announcement of the new dealership in Seoul, Aston Martin Global Sales Director Christian Marti said: “I’m very happy that we are able to develop this stunning new facility in South Korea.

“Offering the highest levels of sales and after-sales service to our owners around the world is fundamental for our business, and I’m very pleased that we have been able to add further dealer coverage in this key region.”


Strong sales in H1, weak sales in H2 expected, says HLIB

                PETALING JAYA: The automotive industry is expected to see a rebound in total industry volume (TIV) this year, say analysts.

The main reason is the sales and service tax (SST) exemption for vehicle purchases that is still in place, they said.

According to Hong Leong Investment Bank (HLIB) Research, TIV is expected to grow by 18.8% year-on-year (y-o-y) to 600,000 units in 2022.

This would be driven by the extension of the SST exemption until the middle of this year, the backlog of pent-up orders from 2021, new model launches in 2021 and early 2022, as well as the low base effect from last year.

However, sales in the first half of the year are expected to be much stronger than the second half, it said.

“The outlook in 2022 can be broadly categorised into two halves: a strong first half (average 60,000 to 65,000 units per month), driven by the SST exemption.

“This will be followed by a weak second half (averaging 35,000 to -40,000 units per month) due to the after-effects of the SST exemption ending, as car buyers would have brought forward their purchases,” HLIB Research said.

The research house said that this effect of bringing forward purchases was seen during the 2018 “tax holiday” from June to September when the goods and services tax was “zerorised” but SST had yet to be re-implemented.

“Any model introduced in 2022 may soften the negative impact of post-SST exemption,” HLIB Research said.

The research house said it expects a challenging second half of the year, with stiff competition to emerge across the board.

“Original equipment manufacturers will have to leverage on attractive new models and sales programmes in order to sustain sales,” it said.

Meanwhile, RHB Research said the full-year TIV figure for 2021 is likely to beat its forecast of 470,000 units, which implies a 13% y-o-y decline.

“Despite the robust 2021 performance, we leave our 2022 forecast TIV of 540,000 units unchanged as we expect much of the backlog to be filled this year.

“This is given the persistent chip shortage and earlier-than-expected extension of the SST exemption period,” it said.

RHB Research is also expecting a post-SST exemption hangover eventually in the second half of the year.

“The SST exemption should compensate for the loss of sales during the full lockdown and keep demand buoyed, coupled with the low interest-rate environment amidst production bottlenecks.

“Our view remains largely unchanged and we think the extension in SST exemption to June 2022 will not be as effective as before,” it said.

It reasoned that consumers intending to take advantage of the SST discounts would have already done so during the past 18 months.

“Beyond that, we expect TIV to taper off for a few quarters following the re-imposition of the SST, before resuming growth,” it said.

RHB Research is keeping its “neutral” call on the auto sector at this juncture, as it said near-term headwinds such as component shortage and the Covid-19 workplace threat are expected to remain.

HLIB Research also maintained its “neutral” call on the sector as it also noted that TIV is expected to normalise in the second half.


Beijing Auto Show (2016): revised Mitsubishi ASX

                BEIJING: The revised Mitsubishi ASX compact crossover with the Dynamic Shield front design concept made its Asian debut at the 2016 Beijing Auto Show.

The revised ASX adopts Mitsubishi's "Dynamic Shield" front design concept that expresses function of protecting both occupants and vehicle while maintaining the powerful performance and excellent fuel economy of its previous version.

Dynamic Shield, together with restyled 17-inch wheels, makes for a more athletic and energetic look.


All-electric Volvo C40 Recharge opens for booking in Europe

                GOTHENBURG: Volvo Cars has officially opened order books for the C40 Recharge, the company’s latest fully electric model.

It is available either by a monthly subscription or can be bought outright. It's selling in Sweden at SEK 690,000 (RM345,000).

A landmark car for the company’s recently announced new commercial strategy, the C40 Recharge is available online via volvocars.com in markets across Europe* as of this week.

Customers can order from the comfort of their own home, or place an online order together with their retailer.

In line with its ambition of reducing complexity in its model portfolio and focus on attractive pre-selected variants, Volvo Cars has drastically simplified the consumer offering of the C40 Recharge.

When customers get a new C40 Recharge, it will come with a convenient Care offer including items such as servicing, warranty, roadside assistance, as well as insurance and home charging options where available.

“We call it the future of Volvo,” said Lex Kerssemakers, Head of Global Commercial Operations at Volvo Cars. “That is because our Volvo C40 Recharge is more than just a new car. It is our first ever electric-only model and represents a significant step in our plan to move online for the benefit of consumer convenience. It is, in short, a completely new take on a Volvo.”

The C40 Recharge is the latest manifestation of Volvo Cars’ commitment to a zero-emission future. The company will roll out several additional electric models in the coming years and aims for 50 per cent of its global sales volume to consist of fully electric cars by 2025. By 2030, it plans for every car it sells to be pure electric.

The C40 Recharge has all the benefits of an SUV but with a lower and sleeker design. The rear of the C40 Recharge features a striking rear-end design to go with the lower roof line, while the new front design introduces a new face for electric Volvos and includes headlights with state-of-the-art pixel technology.

Inside, the C40 Recharge provides customers with the high seating position that most Volvo drivers prefer, while it is available with a range of colour and deco options unique to the model. It is also the first Volvo model to be completely leather free.

Like the XC40 Recharge, the C40 Recharge comes with one of the best infotainment systems on the market, jointly developed with Google and based on the Android operating system. It provides consumers with Google apps and services built-in, such as Google Assistant, Google Maps and the Google Play Store.

Unlimited data enables superior connectivity and the C40 Recharge is designed to receive software updates over the air. That means it will continue to improve over time after it has left the factory.

The propulsion consists of twin electric motors, one on the front and one on the rear axle, powered by a 78kWh battery that can be fast charged to 80 per cent capacity in about 40 minutes. It offers an anticipated range of around 261 miles 420km, which is expected to improve over time via over-the-air software updates.


June 29-July 5: RON97 petrol price up 11 sen to RM2.49


Cycle & Carriage introduces Mercedes-Benz Star Mobile

                KUALA LUMPUR: Cycle & Carriage Bintang Berhad has launched the Mercedes-Benz Star Mobile.

A first-of-its-kind in Malaysia, this new service offers customers best-in-class services with minimal wait time, conveniently at their doorstep.

The Mercedes-Benz Star Mobile, housed within a Mercedes-Benz Vito, is designed to give customers hassle-free maintenance services for theirMercedes-Benz vehicles.

The Mercedes-Benz Star Mobile is manned by two qualified technicians and fully equipped with the Xentry Diagnosis system, special tools and technician hand tools to perform off site repair and maintenance jobs.

The services include scheduled maintenance services, wiper blade replacements, key battery or infrared replacements and battery replacements right at a customer’s door step, without having to drive into a service centre.

Cost estimates are provided ahead of services including itemised costs for required parts and labour costs.

Customers can schedule an appointment with any Cycle & Carriage dealership within the Klang Valley to enjoy the Mercedes-Benz Star Mobile services.

The Mercedes-Benz Star Mobile operates daily (except public holidays), Monday to Friday from 8am to 8pm, and Saturday to Sunday from 8am to 1pm.

To book an appointment, customers can call their respective Cycle & Carriage service centres or directly call The Mercedes-Benz Star Mobile hotline at +603 – 6192 9200.

Cycle & Carriage is the pilot for the roll-out of the first Mercedes-Benz Star Mobile.

In celebration of the Mercedes-Benz Star Mobile launch, Cycle & Carriage is waiving the service fee for the first three months.

“Our customers are important to us, and we dedicate ourselves to continually learning and understanding their different needs and preferences. We aim to be a trusted dealer partner by translating our insights into innovative services and experiences that enhance the overall customer journey. The Mercedes-Benz Star Mobile is a shining example of a premium service that delivers greater convenience and peace of mind when it comes to caring for our customers’ cherished Mercedes-Benz vehicles,” said Cycle & Carriage Bintang CEO Wilfrid Foo.


2019 Maserati Levante S: Carsifu drives the SUV in England

                SUSSEX, England: As part of the media programme at the 2018 Goodwood Festival of Speed in West Sussex, England, Maserati organised a three-hour drive of the 2019 updated Levante S in GranSport trim.

The 177km route was a mix of narrow village and town roads, and smooth highways and it was mostly a relaxed, leisurely drive with us slowing down to a crawl occasionally for horses munching on grass next to countryside roads.

There were numerous speed limit cameras along the route, especially on the highways and we did not want to risk getting a speeding fine.

We started from New Milton town in south west Hampshire, and stopped for a quick tour of iconic gin-maker Bombay Sapphire's distillery in Laverstoke before driving towards a lunch stop at the charming Beaverbrook country house hotel near Leatherhead, Surrey.

READ MORE:

2018 Goodwood Festival of Speed: Maserati MC12 GT1 Centenario

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Maserati updates 2019 Levante with new styling and kit

The units we drove in England were left-hand drive, which felt a bit odd as we were in a right-hand drive country although we quickly got used to this.

We were snugly ensconced in the 12-way power sport front seats, and found features like the plush leather upholstery, 14-speaker Harman Kardon Premium sound system, Alcantara roof lining, surround view camera system, power-adjustable sport steering wheel with aluminium gearshift paddles, and the sharp and accurate Electric Power Steering to our liking.

The car's large rear cargo area of 580 litres was more than enough for our luggage bags.

To recap, the Levante S has a petrol-powered 3.0-litre twin-turbocharged, direct injection V6 engine with 430hp at 5,750rpm and 580Nm of torque in Sport mode between 1,750 and 5,000rpm.

In Normal driving mode, the torque rises to 500Nm in the lower rev range, reaching the 580Nm maximum at 5,000rpm.

On the few occasions where we stomped on the accelerator pedal, the result was a very satisfying, visceral engine roar and quick adrenaline-inducing sprints in the Levante S.

The Levante S accelerates from 0 to 100kph in 5.2 seconds and has a top speed of 264kph.

The V6 engine’s specific torque of 194Nm per litre is the best in the luxury SUV class, as is its specific power (144hp per litre).

The eight-speed automatic ZF gearbox is silky smooth, and we mostly kept the car in Sport drive mode for faster response - not that it made a lot of difference as we did not drive like madmen.

It's worth noting that by default, the car is set to Auto Normal mode, but by pressing a button, the driver can select other drive modes - Off-Road, ICE (increased control and efficiency) and Sport.

ICE (increased control and efficiency) is for even better traction in slippery conditions while also reducing fuel consumption.

The Levante S is very well appointed with high-end features like Air Suspension, electronically controlled Skyhook shock absorbers and the Q4 AWD (all-wheel-drive) system, which come as standard equipment.

The aluminium front double-wishbone and rear five-link suspension layout provides exceptional comfort, control and performance.

Our co-driver, a writer from Singapore, was not keen on using the car's Lane Keeping Assist function which we easily switched off via the car's 8.4-inch multi-touch screen.

Advanced Driving Assistance Systems (ADAS) in the Levante S includes Forward Collision Warning (FCW), Highway Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, Active Blind Spot Assist and Traffic Sign Recognition.

The Brembo brake system provides outstanding stopping power as we found out when we once had to step hard on the brakes as traffic suddenly slowed on the highway.

The current edition of the Levante S was launched in Malaysia in November 2017 by Naza Italia, the official importer and distributor for Maserati.

It is priced from RM788,800 (inclusive of local taxes and duties) and includes a 3-year warranty with unlimited mileage plus a Maserati Premium Service Plus of 3 years/60,000km (whichever is first).


Nissan unveils summertime special

                NASHVILLE: With an increasing number of families in the US buying double cab pickup trucks as alternatives to traditional family sedans and VW in the process of reviving its iconic camper van in an all-electric format, the popularity of lifestyle vehicles doesn't seem to be on the wane.

And now Nissan is getting in on the act too with the unveiling of Titan Surfcamp concept, which is a lifestyle vehicle for beach lovers based on the popular Titan XD pickup truck.

For anyone who likes to visit the beach on a regular basis, the Titan Surfcamp is the perfect vehicle as it's basically a beach bungalow on wheels based on a Titan XD with a 5.0-liter Cummings turbodiesel engine under the hood.

This really is the ultimate beach vehicle as it comes with a variety of boards such as a surfboard and paddleboard, and there's even a solar-powered shower for washing off all that sand and salt at the end of a hard day enjoying yourself at the shore.

The Surfcamp is a lot more than a surfer dude wagon though, as it's also kitted out for fishing with a number of fishing rods. And after a long day at the beach, there's also a roof-mounted tent for a happy camper or two to climb inside and bed down for the night, without having to head off on a long drive home or to find a hotel somewhere.

A separate trailer isn't required for storing all the kit as everything fits neatly inside the Nissan, and there's no need to worry about getting stuck in the sand as the Surfcamp is fitted with an Icon Stage 5 lift kit and Icon wheels wrapped in Nitto Ridge Grappler tyres. The regular Titan XD front bumper is replaced with a Fab Four Vengeance Series unit, and the body of the Surfcamp has been decorated with a retro-inspired wrap along the lines of a Hot Wheel Datsun.

Of course, don't expect to see the Nissan Titan Surfcamp in a dealership anytime soon as this appears to be a one-off designed for a trade show. It will be on display at the International Convention of Allied Sportfishing Trades (ICAST) in Orlando, Florida July 10 -13.


How to prepare your dog for a road trip

                BERLIN: Some dogs love car trips but for others, it’s terribly stressful, leading to barking, whining and sickness, even.

Owners can influence this.

“You can slowly and carefully get your pet used to car travel, ” says TV dog trainer Martin Ruetter who comes from Cologne, Germany. Dogs have to be taught that car trips aren’t dangerous and there’s no reason to be afraid.

Often, the problems start early as most young dogs are picked up by their new owners and taken in a car.

That is usually a painful separation from its siblings and mother, and the car’s movement may further upset a puppy’s sensitive sense of balance at that delicate age.

The trick is to help your dog enjoy it. “The first step is to put food in the car, ” says Ruetter. You can also play games with your dog, hiding food and letting it be found. if your dog can handle all this, then try the same process but with the engine running. Sit in the car yourself and buckle up and pretend you’re about to go for a drive.

However, only start the car if your dog isn’t showing any signs of stress such as panting or salivating, Ruetter says.

Gradually, you can increase the distance and the speed – always provided your dog stays cool.

“Basically, every training session should end with a good moment, ” says Yasmin Diepenbruck, a vet from Bernkastel-Andel on the Moselle. Stop at the first indication that your dog is suffering the slightest stress or discomfort.

There are several ways to make sure your dog stays safe on trips. Padded safety harnesses, for example, give the dog a certain amount of freedom of movement in the back seat, but could be difficult if there’s a crash. If you put up a stable net or grid to keep your dog in the boot, that could mean your dog gets thrown around in an accident.

Experts say the safest way to travel is in a transport box in the boot, positioned at right angles to the direction of travel behind the rear seat backrest, according to Europe’s largest car club, the ADAC in Germany.

Keep the safety belts from the rear seat fastened even if nobody’s sitting there to make the backrest more stable in the event of a crash.

Small boxes can be placed in the foot well behind the front seats.

However, this too needs practice. Just like driving, the dog needs a chance to get used to the box, and that process requires patience and motivation. “You could try initially keeping the box in the house so it becomes a safe place, ” says Ruetter.

Treats help, too. Try placing your dog’s favourite snack or toy at the front of the box when you start the training process.

Nudge it back, successively, so the dog gets used to the box in stages. But keep it open, for now.

Your next step could be a bone to gnaw on, that the dog chews in the box – and only in the box.

Don’t let your dog leave the box with the bone – remove it if the dog heads out.

Now, if the dog is willing to enter the box without any hesitation. try closing the door, just for a few seconds.

And make sure that once you put the box in the car, it’s fastened safely so it doesn’t slip when your dog bounces in and out of it.


Starting today, MCO offenders must pay RM1,000 fine if caught

                KUALA LUMPUR: The police will start issuing compound notices to movement control order (MCO) violators from today, says Comm Datuk Seri Acryl Sani Abdullah Sani.

"We will start issuing the compound notice which comes with a RM1,000 fine starting today. We received the forms and documentation for the compounds last week," he told a press conference in Bukit Aman today.

He said that the compound would not be issued at the roadblocks, adding that MCO violators will be brought to the nearest police station or district police headquarters and it will be issued there.

"If the violators fail to pay the compound amount, they will be tried in court. They are given two weeks to settle the amount at any Health Ministry office," Comm Acryl said.

He reminded everyone not to take the decision to issue compounds lightly as it involves a fixed amount of RM1,000.

"There is no room for discounts once the compound has been issued," he said, adding that it is in accordance with the Prevention and Control of Infectious Diseases Act 1988.


Mercedes-Benz City Store aims to stand out

                KUALA LUMPUR: Mercedes-Benz dealer Cycle & Carriage Bintang Bhd today opened the Mercedes-Benz City Store.  It is the first of its kind Mercedes-Benz dealership located in the lifestyle and entertainment hub, TREC Kuala Lumpur.

The 9,373 sq ft Mercedes-Benz Cycle & Carriage Bintang TREC Autohaus is able to house seven showroom vehicles. Managed by a 16-member sales team, the new dealership sports a new look with the latest in modern interior design and furnishings.

It also include a private showroom lounge and bar.

 How the store looks inside.

Cycle & Carriage Bintang CEO Datuk Wong Kin Foo said the store was a RM4.3mil investment.  "This Autohaus sets itself apart in appearance with black ceiling, wood finishing, multiple colours wallpaper and lights which amplifies the vibrancy of the brand, and the chosen location permits such loud interpretation.”

Mercedes-Benz Malaysia vice president sales and marketing for passenger cars Mark Raine praised the store, saying it would create new experiences for customers.

Cycle & Carriage Bintang  recently launched upgraded dealerships in George Town and Petaling Jaya.

It operates a network of 11 dealerships nationwide, which include seven 3S Autohauses, two sales showrooms and two service centres.


IPhone assembler Foxconn sets up auto arm as Apple Car looms

Foxconn’s key unit Foxconn Technology Co. is reportedly expanding a plant to develop automotive metal parts. — Reuters
TAIPEI: Apple Inc.’s Taiwanese manufacturing partner Foxconn Technology Group is setting up a car venture, strengthening its automotive capabilities at a time when technology companies including its California ally are looking to expand in vehicles.

Foxconn is joining forces with Chinese carmaker Zhejiang Geely Holding Group Co. to provide production and consulting services to global automotive enterprises, according to a statement from the companies Wednesday.

Amid reports of Apple considering making its own electric vehicles, Foxconn has been bulking up its automotive muscles swiftly. Such moves may help the company become a major contender to make cars for its largest customer.

With development work still at an early stage, Apple will take at least half a decade to launch an autonomous electric vehicle, people with knowledge of the efforts have told Bloomberg News. That suggests the company is in no hurry to decide on potential auto-industry partners.

Last week, Hyundai Motor Co. backed away from a statement confirming it is in talks with Apple, saying it had been contacted by potential partners for the development of autonomous electric vehicles.

Foxconn, whose main listed arm is Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., in October unveiled its first-ever EV chassis and a software platform aimed at helping automakers bring models to the market faster.

It plans to deliver its first development kit in April, with Hon Hai chairman Young Liu saying EV-related business in the first half will be “very good”. Meanwhile, Foxconn’s key unit Foxconn Technology Co. is reportedly expanding a plant to develop automotive metal parts.

Earlier this month, Foxconn signed a manufacturing deal with embattled Chinese electric-vehicle startup Byton Ltd. with the aim to start mass production of the Byton M-Byte by the first quarter of 2022.

An Apple car would rival electric vehicles from Tesla Inc. and offerings from companies such as upstart Lucid Motors and established manufacturers like Daimler AG and Volkswagen AG. Setting up a car plant can cost billions of dollars and take years, likely the reason why Apple is talking to potential manufacturing partners.

Apple has continued to investigate building its self-driving car system for a third-party auto partner rather than its own vehicle, the people familiar have said, and the company could ultimately abandon its own car efforts in favour of this approach.

Other technology companies seeking to expand into the autonomous driving space have also sought partnerships. Alphabet Inc.’s self-driving unit Waymo has worked with Chrysler, while Amazon.com Inc. has tapped Rivian Automotive Inc. for cooperation over delivery vans.

This week, billionaire Li Shufu’s Geely struck a pact with search-engine giant Baidu Inc. to set up a venture to make intelligent electric vehicles.

Li, who is also Daimler’s largest shareholder, has championed partnerships and consolidation as a way for automakers to pool resources for initiatives like self-driving cars and electrification. He’s built a global carmaking empire over the past two decades, securing stakes in European legacy brands such as Lotus as well as investing in Malaysian auto company Proton.


Saudi women-only motorshow opens in Jeddah

Saudi women are seen at the first automotive showroom solely dedicated for women in Jeddah on Jan 11. — All images by Reuters
JEDDAH: Women flocked to Le Mall here on Thursday to check out the kingdom's first car exhibition aimed at women, a few months after Saudi Arabia granted them the right to drive.

Pink, orange and yellow balloons hung in the mall's showroom as women posed for photos and selfies in front of the cars. One woman in the driver's seat fixed her face cover. Another wrapped her turquoise-painted fingernails around the steering wheel, feeling it out.

In a decree issued in September, King Salman ordered by June an end to the ban on women drivers, a conservative tradition that has limited women's mobility and been seen by rights activists as an emblem of their suppression.

Saudi Arabia is the only country that bans women drivers. The landmark royal decree has been hailed as proof of a new progressive trend in the deeply conservative Muslim kingdom.

"I've always been interested in cars, but we didn't have the ability to drive," said Ghada al-Ali, a customer. "And now I'm very interested in buying a car but I would like the payments and prices to not be very high."

Saudi Arabia's cost of living has risen after the government hiked domestic gas prices and introduced value-added tax (VAT) in January.

The exhibition focussed on fuel-efficient cars and provided a team of saleswomen to help their new customer base. The showroom carried signs emblazoned with the slogan "Drive and Shop", a play on words in Arabic, using the female form of the verbs.

"It is known that women are the largest section who shop in malls," said Sharifa Mohammad, the heads the exhibition's saleswomen. "This whole mall is run by women anyway. All the cashiers are women. Everyone in the restaurants are women."


Ants, bats and birds evicted for new German Tesla plant

UPDATE: Reuters reported that a German court on Sunday had ordered Tesla to stop clearing forest land for its Gigafactory. The court ruling, by the higher administrative court of the states of Berlin and Brandenburg, comes after the state environmental office gave a green light to clear 92ha of forest for the plant. Planning permission has not yet been granted to build the plant, however, meaning US entrepreneur Elon Musk’s company is preparing the ground at its own risk.

BERLIN: US electric car giant Tesla began clearing forest for its first European "Gigafactory" near Berlin last week, and is now racing against the clock to rehouse ants, birds and hibernating bats.

Workers have started clearing a 92-hectare area of forest at the site in Gruenheide in Brandenburg state after Tesla received the green light from authorities last month.

But after concerns from environmentalists, Tesla has announced measures to relocate wildlife from the affected area, according to reports in various German media this week.

The company will have to relocate "forest ants, reptiles and five bats", Tagesspiegel daily wrote last Wednesday.

According to the Sueddeutsche Zeitung, numerous ant colonies would be dug out with "shovels and little diggers" and relocated way from the plot.

Tesla spokesmen could not immediately be reached for comment on the plans.

According to local media, the company has also promised to hang 400 nesting boxes in the area, as deforestation will rob a number of birds of their homes.

But with the factory intended to open in 2021, the car giant faces a race against time to clear the forest and relocate the animals.

Birds will return to nest in the trees from March onwards, and the bats are set to wake from hibernation and begin mating around the same time.

Germany's Nature and Biodiversity Conservation Union (NABU) warned that moving the bats in particular would not be easy.

"To disturb the bats as little as possible, they will have to be moved during hibernation," Christiane Schroeder, director of NABU's Brandenburg branch, told the Berliner Zeitung daily last month.

In a recent interview with Tagesspiegel, Brandenburg's state environment minister Axel Vogel praised Tesla's environmentally minded approach.

Tesla had "approached conservationists early and proactively," said the Greens party politician. Co-founder Elon Musk had himself proposed a plan to plant three times as many trees as would be cut down, he added.

Brandenburg, a state surrounding Berlin, has high hopes that Tesla's arrival could bring thousands of high quality jobs.

But critics have claimed that deforestation could harm wildlife and endanger the drinking water supply.

And environmental protection is not the only hurdle Tesla have faced in Gruenheide.

Last month, authorities defused seven World War II bombs discovered at the site of the future factory.


Companies going on all-out price war to attract buyers

                PETALING JAYA: There is a slump in car sales now, but dealers and automobile companies are going on an all-out price war to get the vehicles moving.

Many of the dealers are offering fantastic deals and discounts, and extended warranties, to boost sales especially with the Chinese New Year in mind.

Chinese New Year is usually the period when there is an upsurge in vehicle sales. With worries over a weakening ringgit pushing up car prices in the future, dealers are telling prospective buyers that now is the best time to get a new car.

Naza Corp Holdings Sdn Bhd group chief operating officer (automotive group) Datuk Samson Anand George acknowledged that stiff competition among car dealers would benefit buyers.

“Now would be the best and right time to buy a car. Those waiting to buy should not wait any longer.”

He said some 46 Naza car dealers took part in a “Chinese New Year Ang Pow Vaganza” over the weekend where rebates up to RM25,000 were offered to buyers, along with a buyback guarantee at 50% of the value. “Feedback from our dealers was good and we are considering holding a similar promotion soon.”

Proton Holdings Bhd said intense competition as well as the economic slowdown negatively affected customer confidence.

Its CEO, Datuk Ahmad Fuaad Kenali, said Proton’s market share went from 17.4% in January to 8.5% in August last year before bouncing back to 16% in October.

Additionally, Proton sales also suffered due to delayed launches of some of its models earlier last year, however new launches in Q2 and Q3 helped it regain momentum. But Fuaad believes these setbacks to be temporary.

“The impact of the weakening Ringgit could affect material costs as imported components will become expensive but I feel this is temporary and the Ringgit will strengthen once everything stabilises,” said Ahmad Fuaad.

One of the ways Proton plans to face the challenging times is to improve its after sales service to make it more convenient for Proton owners to care for their cars.

“Proton has put a lot of effort to improve our after sales service. Besides our service centres, we also introduced the MyProton app to allow more flexibility for our customers to arrange for a test drive or service their cars,” said Ahmad Fuaad.

Proton is giving "prosperity" rebates up to RM12,000 depending on the model under its promotion.

Among other promotions were Honda Malaysia’s “The Rooster Brings Goo-Gooo-Gooood Deal” with cash bonuses and ang pows worth up to RM12,000 for six models and Toyota Malaysia’s “The Drive Begins!” with cash rebates of between RM2,000 and RM10,000 for eight models.

Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia’s “Biggest Angpow of the Year” is offering a chance for buyers to win an ang pow packet of RM66,888, including cash back ranging from RM1,288 to RM388 for six models.

Other promotions include Tan Chong Group’s 60th Anniversary ang pow offer of between RM2,500 and RM6,500 for five Nissan models and Jeep’s “Unbeatable Deals” of savings between RM90,000 and RM150,000 for three models.

Ford Malaysia is giving easier vehicle ownership with up to to 17 months' free loan installments.

Subaru Malaysia’s “Have A Fulfilling 2017’ is offering RM8,888 ang pow and Isuzu is offering rebates of up to RM12,000.

Perodua is also in the fray, offering “Golden Prosperity Deals” with rebates of between RM2,188 and RM3,888 for four models.

BMW Malaysia “CNY@BMW” is offering financing interest rates from 1.68%, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia is offering 1.88% while Volvo Malaysia is offering 1.8% under its “Festlig Season” promotion.

Malaysian Automotive Association (MAA) president Datuk Aishah Ahmad said car sales were expected to increase by at least 5% as consumers take advantage of the offers. “It is a win-win situation as dealers get more sales while consumers get to choose the best deals.”

Car dealers, she said, were willing to accept lower profit margins as they had stocked up cars when the currency rates were more favourable. Aishah added that concerns over higher car prices later in the year would also drive some to buy a car now rather than risk paying more a few months down the road.

“With the ringgit weakening, there is no choice but to increase car prices once the existing stocks are depleted,” she said, adding that this decision would depend on the car companies’ business strategies.

MMA reported that new passenger car sales dropped 13.8% to 456,943 units between January and November last year from 530,173 units during the same period in 2015.

However, sales picked up by 2.5% in November last year. The upward trend continued in December and is likely to last through the Chinese New Year. MMA will release its 2016 annual car sales report after meeting on Jan 19.

Federation of Malaysian Consumers Associations (Fomca) secretary-general Datuk Paul Selvaraj said that while competition among car dealers would benefit consumers, those wanting to buy a car must ensure they could afford it.

“If they are able to manage their finances well, now would be a good time to get a car. However, they need to see if they really need to buy a car as it is the largest expenditure next to buying a house,” he added.

Selvaraj said that failure to repay car loans was among the reasons why many were made bankrupt.


60,000 hours to become a Takumi

                TOKYO: In the West, it's often considered that it takes 10,000 hours of study for the average person to become an expert in their subject. But in Japan you're not considered a master of your craft until you've spent 60,000 hours refining your skills. That's the equivalent of working 8 hours a day, 250-days a year for 30 years.

A documentary unveils the world of the Takumi - the highest level of artisan in Japan. The character-driven portrait, made by Chef's Table Director, Clay Jeter, for Lexus is due for release on Prime Video, through the Prime Video Direct self-publishing service, on March 19 globally.

Takumi - A 60,000-hour story on the survival of human craft follows four Japanese artisans who are dedicating their lives to their crafts, including a double Michelin starred chef, a traditional paper cutting artist, an automotive master craftsman and a carpenter for one of the oldest construction companies in the world.

The documentary, which premiered at the DOC NYC film festival in New York, is unique in that the medium is also the message. There will be a feature length version plus a '60,000' hour cut which loops scenes of each Takumi's essential skills of their craft they repeat over and over again to highlight the hours, days and years of practice involved.

Narrated by Former British Museum Director Neil Macgregor and including interviews from world experts in craft and AI, it asks how we will honour and preserve human craft as simultaneously we design machines to act more precisely and faster than humans ever can.

"In the time period we live in, which is so attention-deficit, we all feel like we don't have enough time." says Nora Atkinson, curator of craft at the Smithsonian American Art Museum. "So, the thousands of hours it really takes to become a skilled craftsman is something that a smaller sphere of artists will experience."

By 2050, it's estimated that machines will be capable of surpassing human performance in virtually every field "We're in the midst of exponential progress," said Martin Ford Rise of The Robots: Technology and The Threat of a Jobless Future author. He said that this rate of transformation hasn't been seen before. "In the next 10 years, we're going to see 10,000 years of progress."

Will human craft disappear as artificial intelligence reaches beyond our limits? Or will this cornerstone of our culture survive and become more valuable than ever? This documentary looks at how to take the long road to excellence in a world that's constantly striving for shortcuts.

"The essence of Takumi is to gain a sublime understanding of the nuances of a particular art," said Nahoko Kojima, the paper cut artist who appears in the documentary.

"To be focused and spend countless hours on one thing, and to carry on. It requires one to empty the mind and focus in a way that is simply not possible when still acquiring a skill."

Viewers can enjoy the 54-minute version or sit and watch the 60,000-hour version on www.takumi-craft.com that allows them to soak up the level of dedication and commitment it takes to achieve a special kind of mastery.

The documentary, created by The&Partnership London, will be available on Amazon Prime Video, Amazon Instant, Google Play and iTunes.


Ghosn in no position to lead Renault, says French finance minister

                PARIS: Carlos Ghosn should not remain in charge of Renault after his arrest in Japan, France’s finance minister said today, urging the carmaker to move swiftly to install an interim management team to limit the damage.

Ghosn, one of the best known leaders in the car industry, was arrested in Japan on Monday after Renault partner Nissan said he had engaged in wrongdoing including personal use of company money and under-reporting how much he was earning for years. Nissan plans to oust him as chairman on Thursday.

“Carlos Ghosn is no longer in a position where he is capable of leading Renault,” Finance Minister Bruno Le Maire told France Info radio.

“Nevertheless, we have not demanded the formal departure of Ghosn from the management board for a simple reason, which is that we do not have any proof and we follow due legal procedure,” added Le Maire.

The French state owns 15 percent of Renault, which in turn holds a 43.4 percent stake in Nissan.

Le Maire also called on Renault’s board to meet “in the coming hours” to set up an interim management structure in light of the arrest of Ghosn, who is chairman and chief executive.

The board will meet later today, a company spokesman said.

It will discuss temporarily replacing Ghosn while he remains in detention in Japan, said sources familiar with the matter.

Le Maire said he would contact his Japanese counterpart over the matter, and reiterated that France’s priority was to ensure the stability of the Renault company.

Le Maire added that Renault’s partnership with Nissan was in the interests of both France and Japan and of both companies.

“Renault has been weakened, which make it all the more necessary to act quickly,” said Le Maire.

Renault to “neutral” from “outperform”.

Le Maire said he had asked French tax authorities to look into Ghosn’s affairs and that they had found nothing of particular note.


Back to the future with DeLorean's new gullwing electric flagship

                HOUSTON: The DMC DeLorean is one of the world's most famous cars next to James Bond's Aston Martin DB5 and now it's back on the block as a gullwing battery-electric sportster called Alpha 5.

The spaceship-style name suits this rakish creation which is very much a homage to the angular 1980s original although at first glance it looks nothing like it.

The svelte form of the Alpha 5 is a long way from the wedge-shaped stainless-steel DMC of yore but the tail-lights and rear black slats are a nod to the first car along with the chunky louvres over the rear windows.

The new Alpha 5 comes from Giorgietto Giugiaro's Italian styling house and guess what? The maestro designed the first DMC too. The new car will debut at Pebble Beach in August before going into production in 2024.

The US company's mission statement on its website has Star Trek-style boldness to it too: "Designed with purpose. DeLorean has confidence and a compelling presence. We will continue to apply our rebellious DNA to shape our vehicles and constantly push the boundaries of what's possible."

The first DeLorean gained fame as the automotive star of the "Back to the Future" film franchise, where the car plays an imaginary time travel machine using a so-called flux capacitor.

That DMC needed to travel at 142kph in order to initiate time travel and for this reason only 88 of the new Alpha 5 will go on sale.

The new car is no time traveller but performance should be in the supercar league, with sub four-second acceleration from zero to 100 kph. Key technical details are still under wraps.

Former Tesla top executive Joost de Vries is behind the project. His DeLorean Motor Company based near here follows on from British engineer Stephen Wynne, who gained the rights to the original company name and branding in 1995.

Aimed at the kind of customer who would otherwise buy a Porsche Taycan, the Alpha 5 is bigger and longer at almost five metres from bumper to bumper. At two metres, it is also impressively wide and has four very comfortable seats.


Additional 12 RFID lanes on PLUS expressway now operational, says Nanta

                KUALA LUMPUR: The additional 12 radio frequency identification (RFID) lanes on the North-South (PLUS) Expressway have been fully completed and began operations on March 11, said Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi.

He said that the additional RFID lanes were originally scheduled to be completed in mid-April, however, the work was completed ahead of schedule.

The additional RFID lanes are at toll plazas in Setia Alam, Subang, Jalan Duta, Putra Mahkota, Kajang, Kubang Semang, Sungai Besi, Shah Alam, Sungai Buloh, Rawang Selatan and Penang Bridge.

"I was also given an assurance that this RFID system will always be in the best condition. However, I also expect cooperation from RFID users on the PLUS expressway to always use the same RFID lane or payment mode when entering and exiting the toll plaza.

"At the same time, motorists should ensure that the eWallet balance is sufficient before starting the journey for a smoother travel experience,” he said in a statement on his official Facebook today.

He also congratulated PLUS Malaysia Berhad for successfully completing the work ahead of schedule.

In January, Nanta announced the additional 12 RFID lanes in several toll plazas on PLUS Expressway following complaints by motorists that a lack of such lanes was causing congestion.


Bentley, Lamborghini skip Paris show amid VW cost-cutting drive

                WOLFSBURG: Volkswagen supercar brands Bentley and Lamborghini have dropped out of the Paris Motor Show next week as their German parent is reining in spending on auto exhibitions to cushion costs from its emissions scandal.

One year after admitting it used illegal software to rig diesel emissions tests, Volkswagen is cutting costs across the group to fund a strategic shift in the business and to cover billions of euros in fines and payments linked to its scandal.

Bentley said on Monday it was skipping the crowded Oct 1-16 show and would instead focus on small events to market more directly to buyers. Lamborghini said it was revising strategy regarding auto show attendance, including the choice of locations where the Italian brand wants to be.

Car-show extravaganzas cost millions of euros as brands, especially luxury nameplates, strive to outshine one another. VW will dispense with a glitzy gala here and instead present stationary cars with a focus of executive speeches on design, a spokesman said.

"A crisis can lead to marginalisation, but it can also mark the turning point for something better, for a real change of tack," chief executive Matthias Mueller told a staff meeting in Wolfsburg on Sept 14. "We need to rejig the group" to boost profitability and catch up on new technologies, he said.

Other carmakers missing this year's Paris show include Ford, Volvo and Aston Martin. But besides cutting costs on opulent show stands, manufacturers are increasingly courting buyers through blogs and web-based events.

The world is continuously changing and Lamborghini, as a brand of luxury super sports cars operating internationally in a niche market, aims to anticipate such changes, the carmaker said.


Dogs more relaxed in EVs than diesel cars, study shows

                LONDON: Dogs have been found to be more relaxed when travelling in an electric car than in a diesel-powered vehicle.

Online vehicle marketplace CarGurus partnered with England's University of Lincoln on a new study, which looked at the effects on dogs of travelling in a diesel car versus an electric vehicle.

The two-day investigation used 20 dogs, each taken on two 10-minute car journeys – one in an EV and one in a diesel. During the trip, their behaviour was analysed.

Led by Daniel Mills, Professor of Veterinary Behavioural Medicine at the University of Lincoln, the study found that dogs were less settled in diesel cars compared with EVs. It also found that signs of car sickness were reduced in electric cars.

The investigation also found that there was no evidence to suggest that EVs have a detrimental effect on dog welfare, with the transition for dogs between travelling in a diesel car and an electric version being ‘smooth’.

While the dogs in the study lay down for around a third of the journey in both cars, in the diesel vehicles the dogs broke their laying position on average 50% more than in an EV. This difference is likely down to the change in vibration levels, says the study.

Daniel Mills, Professor of Veterinary Behavioural Medicine, University of Lincoln, said: “We know most dogs will travel in a car at some point in their life, if not on a daily basis. Yet as EVs become more prevalent with motorists, until now there were no studies of their effect on dogs.

“Our results clearly show that dogs seem to be more relaxed in EVs, particularly when looking at behavioural traits such as restlessness.

“Additionally, an interesting and somewhat unintended revelation from the study came from the dogs that we identified as having potential symptoms associated with travel sickness.” - PA Media


Amazon shows off new Rivian electric delivery van model

                SEATTLE: Amazon.com Inc revealed an electric delivery van model being built for the retail giant by Rivian Automotive Inc., an early step towards getting 100,000 similar vehicles on the road in the next decade.

Amazon last year placed the order, the largest electric vehicle purchase in history, as part of a plan to eliminate the company’s contribution to greenhouse gas emissions by 2040. It aims to have the first vans on the road delivering packages next year.

The vehicle, which Amazon showed off in a video and blog post on Thursday, is one of three models Rivian is building for Amazon. It comes with exterior cameras capable of providing a 360-degree view, integration of Alexa, Amazon’s voice software, and three levels of shelving for packages.

The blog post didn’t include key details such as the vehicle’s cargo capacity or name, but an Amazon spokesman said the vans can travel as much as 241km on a single charge.


Humans still key to auto plants of the future

                SHANGHAI: Carmakers have big plans for their next generation of factories: smarter designs, artificial intelligence and collaborative robots building a wide range of vehicles on the same line.

The plants will also feature a component they say is the secret ingredient to flexible manufacturing: humans.

SAIC-GM’s factory in Shanghai, which opened in 2016, is one of the world’s most advanced auto plants, assembling Buick minivans and Cadillac sedans and SUVs, including the CT-6 plug-in hybrid for U.S. consumers.

GM’s Shanghai plant is expected to eventually produce new electric vehicles, primarily for the Chinese market, executives have said.

The plant, which GM operates with Chinese partner SAIC Motor Corp Ltd, feels almost like a scene from a Star Wars film, with battalions of machines quietly working in self-directed harmony.

Collaborative robots, or “cobots,” painted matte green and unrestrained by the steel cages that surround their larger industrial cousins, are being programmed to work alongside humans on the line. One unusual operation advanced models now handle is installing gears in transmissions.

“They can actually feel; they can pick up a gear set (and) mesh the gear into a transmission,” Paul Buetow, GM’s China manufacturing chief, said on a recent tour of the plant. The robots reduce strain on humans and improve quality and consistency.

Globally, automakers are embracing Industry 4.0 — a term coined by German manufacturers for the digitalization and automation of assembly processes — and the consensus is that fewer people will be required in future factories. But humans will still be needed.

“This is not about cutting head count,” said an insider familiar with industry efforts to upgrade and streamline auto plants in the United States, China and Europe.

The focus instead is on improving flexibility and efficiency between machines and humans as automakers figure out how to build multiple models — powered by gas engines, electric motors, or both — in the same factory.

“It’s not just blood and sweat that goes into manufacturing on an assembly line,” said United Auto Workers president Dennis Williams. “It’s critical thinking that automation can’t replicate.”

A new generation of cobots is working alongside humans at General Motors Co plants from Shanghai to Orion Township, Michigan.

The Orion plant, north of Detroit, is one of the industry’s most flexible. It builds three models on one line: The gas-engine Chevrolet Sonic, the battery-powered Chevrolet Bolt EV and the self-driving Cruise AV.

More than 800 robots work there, including a half-dozen cobots painted green to denote they can safely operate around humans.

The machines handle the “dirty, dull, difficult and dangerous” tasks while people do the work requiring dexterity and intelligence, says Marty Linn, GM’s principal engineer for robotics.

In one section of the plant, cobots glue protective pads onto headliners, a tough job for humans because the glue is heated to scalding temperatures before it is applied.

At another station, a cobot takes new spare tires off a conveyor belt and stacks them on a cart. This, GM’s Linn said, was a job workers universally hated because it was repetitive and back-breaking.

At the end of the line, cobots ensure headlamps are properly aligned. They will also be used to test sensors on automated vehicles, Linn said.

Markus Schaefer, head of production and supply chain at Daimler AG’s Mercedes-Benz Cars, said the German automaker is “paring back automation” in final assembly to boost flexibility.

“We need this because we are making a greater variety of derivatives and, as a premium automaker, we make highly individualised vehicles,” he said.

Schaefer said Mercedes will eventually have plants that can build vehicles with different powertrains and with both front- and rear-wheel drive.

The automaker is converting its showcase Sindelfingen plant to build the GLA, a compact front-wheel-drive utility vehicle, as well as its rear-wheel-drive S-Class luxury sedan.

How collaborative robots and other digital tools are used will determine the size and layout of future factories - and how many humans work there.

Ford Motor Co executive Joe Hinrichs created a stir last October when detailing the automaker’s vision of a future factory for electric vehicles, which have fewer parts than those with combustion engines and thus would require far less floor space, fewer workers and lower investment.

But like other major global carmakers, Ford appears reluctant to invest in dedicated electric-vehicle plants until there is sufficient - and consistent - demand to justify the expense.

Ford has years of experience building different types of vehicles on one line, including versions of the Focus compact with gasoline engines and electric motors.

Ford has installed a few collaborative robots at its recently renovated Louisville, Kentucky, truck plant. The company is also using digital tools such as including augmented reality to map new assembly lines, and predictive analytics to schedule repairs and maintenance before machines break down.

The company has no immediate plans for a separate, highly automated plant for its next-generation electric vehicles, some of which are expected to share factory space with traditional combustion-engine models, according to sources familiar with Ford’s strategy.

An April report by Barclays’ global auto investment team predicted “robots won’t kill all automotive jobs,” at least not in the near term.

Auto companies are working on “perfecting the combination of human and robot,” according to the report, because “the human touch is still necessary.”

Even Tesla chief executive Elon Musk, who long praised robots’ virtues and promised to turn his California electric car factory into a highly automated “alien dreadnought,” has had something of an epiphany.

Bedeviled by technical glitches, Musk recently tweeted: “Excessive automation at Tesla was a mistake ... Humans are underrated.”


Canadian company Loop Energy says new fuel cell more efficient than diesel engine

                VANCOUVER: Hydrogen fuel cell maker Loop Energy said today that its latest cell system can deliver better fuel economy than a diesel engine at current price levels.

The Burnaby, British Columbia-based company said that - based on a pan-European diesel cost of US$1.91 per litre on Sept 5 and US$10 per kg of hydrogen — a truck could travel just over 179km on US$100 worth of fuel using its new S1200 hydrogen fuel cell system versus a little over 175km for an equivalent diesel truck.

As the auto industry makes the shift to zero-emission electric vehicles (EVs), big freight truck makers like Daimler Truck and Volvo are investing heavily in hydrogen fuel cells to haul freight long distances because batteries weigh too much to make electric trucks viable.

Hydrogen fuel cells run hydrogen through a catalyst that produces energy and heat to power a small battery that drives the truck - the only emission from these cells is water.

Hydrogen fuel cells have faced two challenges for broad adoption: they have so far been less efficient than diesel and fuelling infrastructure in Europe is virtually non-existent.

Nyland said the new cell system essentially addresses the first of those challenges.

"This brings the future forward," said Loop Energy chief executive Ben Nyland. "This product delivers the economics that are needed for adoption today."

Nyland said that Loop Energy aims to provide the fuel cell system to startup truck makers and as part of hydrogen powertrains provided to big truck makers by major suppliers.

The company's biggest shareholder is US engine maker Cummins, which holds a more than 20% stake in Loop Energy.


Honda to appoint R&D chief Toshihiro Mibe as new CEO, say sources

Mibe.
TOKYO: Honda Motor Co Ltd will name Toshihiro Mibe, head of the its research and development arm, as new chief executive officer, say two people with direct knowledge of the matter.

Japan’s second-biggest automaker by sales will announce the decision after a board meeting as early as Friday, the people said, requesting anonymity because the information is not public. Mibe will be confirmed as president and representative director at an annual shareholders’ meeting in June, they said.

Honda hiked its full-year operating profit forecast 23% to 520 billion yen (RM19.8bil) earlier this month as it trimmed costs while demand in China and elsewhere gained momentum. That compared with larger peer Toyota Motor Corp which raised its forecast by a bigger-than-expected 54% to a record US$19 billion (RM76.8bil).

Mibe, who is a director at Honda, will replace Takahiro Hachigo, who has held the CEO role for six years. Executive vice president and chief operating officer Seiji Kuraishi will remain in his post to support Mibe, the people said.

It was not immediately clear whether Hachigo would retain a position at Honda.

“No decisions have been made, and there is nothing we can say,” a Honda spokesman said in response to Reuters’ query about the personnel moves.

Mibe, 59, joined Honda in 1987, taking part in engine development as well as managing powertrain and drivetrain businesses. His career includes an operating officer stint in 2014 and he is currently also in charge of intellectual property and standardisation.

After becoming Honda R&D president in 2019, he and Hachigo pushed forward structural reform at the research unit, with electrification in mind.

Hachigo became CEO in 2015, a rare appointment for Honda considering he had not headed the R&D arm as is typical for Honda CEOs.

He spearheaded restructuring plans to simplify and improve efficiency in developing cars, seeking ways to cut model variations and production costs.

During his tenure, the automaker consolidated vehicle and motorcycle development operations, while shifting the research unit’s focus to new mobility and robotics.


Ford in Malaysia offers fantastic savings for Mustang, Fiesta and Ranger

                KUALA LUMPUR:  Sime Darby Auto Connexion (SDAC), the sole distributor of Ford in Malaysia, today announced its ‘Seize the Deal’ campaign offering fantastic rebates of up to 17 percent on top of the six percent GST reduction on selected Ford models.

Valid nationwide for all variants of the Ford Mustang, Fiesta and Ranger models, the promotion applies to vehicles registered from now until 31 August 2018.

All prices stated are on-the-road, without insurance, for Peninsular and East Malaysia and private individual registration only.

Through the campaign, Ford’s iconic pony car, the multiple award-winning Mustang, is now priced from RM396,2711 with a total savings of up to RM113,000 (up to 13 percent rebate with zero-rated GST).

Available in two variants – the GT 5.0L and 2.3L EcoBoost – the new Mustang also comes with a three-year full manufacturer’s warranty.

Meanwhile, promotional prices for the sporty Ford Fiesta is from RM68,401.

Customers can enjoy rebates of up to 17 percent in addition to the zero-rated GST for a combined savings of up to RM20,300.

For the ‘Built Ford Tough’ Ranger, buyers can enjoy rebates to up to 10 percent on top of the six percent GST savings.

This works out to a combined savings of up to RM19,830 with prices starting from RM70,910.

“This is a great time to own a Ford. We encourage all Malaysians to ‘Seize the Deal’ now and enjoy tremendous savings from these fantastic rebates on our popular Ford vehicles in addition to the zero-rated GST already implemented on our full line-up,” said Syed Ahmad Muzri Syed Faiz, managing director, Sime Darby Auto Connexion.


Honda Malaysia issues new product recall, warns of fire risks in some older Accords

This 2013 Accord has been flagged for a potentially serious defect.
PETALING JAYA: Honda Malaysia today announced a recall of the Odyssey and Accord over a battery sensor failure and a defective door mirror component.

The battery sensor failure issue, limited to the Accord, is due to a flaw in the production process that may lead to an electrical short circuit of the sensor and the vehicle may catch fire in the worst case scenario. A total of 20,233 units of Accord (2013 - 2016 Year Model) are affected.

The defective door mirror component is due to inconsistent surface treatment of the movable contact area inside the door mirror retracting switch, which may cause the affected door mirror to retract during driving or parking. A total of 27,912 units of Accord (2013 - 2016 Year Model) and 971 units of Odyssey (2014 - 2017 Year Model) are affected.

 This generation of the Odyssey is also included in the recall.READ MORE:
Honda to use Facebook to find owners with defective Takata airbags
70% of faulty Takata front airbag inflators replaced as at August, says Honda Malaysia

All other current selling models are not affected by the latest product recall.

Honda Malaysia said replacement parts availability is at 50% for both the battery sensor and the defective door mirror component. It said stocks are enough for current replacement requirements.

There is no incidence of fire, crashes or injuries related to these issues reported in Malaysia so far.

All affected customers will be informed via notification letters, which will include details of the product recall. Customers who receive the letter are advised to send their vehicles to the nearest Honda authorised dealer for inspection and replacement.

For more details, call 1-800-88-2020 or go to www.honda.com.my or www.productrecall.honda.com.my.


Automakers in Detroit show off new cars as consumers crave SUVs

                DETROIT: What do the Buick Avista coupe, a Mercedes roadster and Hyundai's Genesis G90 luxury car have in common? They are among the hottest cars on display at the Detroit auto show.

There's just one problem: The models that excite car buffs aren’t what the public is buying. While people like to ogle sexy coupes and sedans, when it comes time to buy, they go for roomy sport utility vehicles.

“You see a nice sedan, a hot coupe, and some more sedans,” said Jack Nerad, executive market analyst for automotive-pricing firm Kelley Blue Book. “It's just not what the market is buying. It's a real head-scratcher.”

In 2015, the best year in U.S. automotive history, passenger car sales fell 2.2 percent while sales of light trucks - pickups, minivans and SUVs - soared 13 percent. Sales of crossover SUVs like the tiny Buick Encore and the BMW X5 rose 19 percent, according to research firm Autodata Corp.

That's the paradox on display at this year's Detroit auto show. Mercedes-Benz had Indie pop singer Ryn Weaver serenade the debut of its SLC roadster, a 363-horsepower looker that replaces the SLK. But Mercedes car sales fell in the U.S. last year while SUV sales soared.

Hyundai Motor Co. had its own debutante ball for its new Genesis luxury division, which showed off the flagship G90 sedan. Entering the luxury market is never an easy ride, but Hyundai is going after it with the kind of long, sleek sedan that wealthy car buffs love. Its seats can be adjusted 22 different ways. The car offers a 420-horsepower V-8 engine and, according to Hyundai, better handling than a Mercedes S550.

Toyota Motor Corp's Lexus also unveiled a dynamic performance vehicle: The LC 500 sports coupe accelerates from 0- to-100kph in under 4.5 seconds, faster than the Mercedes SL550, and will start at about US$100,000 when it goes on sale in 2017.

Gasoline prices
Powerful cars should be selling well. Crude oil prices have fallen to their lowest prices in 12 years at about US$31 a barrel. That has gasoline averaging less than US$2 a gallon across the United States.

But it isn’t helping luxury brands sell their car models. Take the Mercedes E-Class, the mid-sized Benz that starts around US$53,000. In a hot car market with cheap gasoline, its sales fell 25 percent to just under 50,000 cars. Sales of the rival BMW 5 Series fell 16 percent to 44,000 cars. The Cadillac CTS sedan fell 37 percent to less than 20,000 cars as its buyers looked across the showroom for the SRX crossover.

“SUVs seem to be the zeitgeist,” said Uwe Ellinghaus, Cadillac's chief marketing officer. “They are more practical and versatile and they are now completely acceptable among business and luxury buyers.”

What that says is that one of the car companies might have lit up the show with a good crossover SUV or some other sport utility vehicle.

Timing ‘anomaly’
The lack of SUV introductions is “just an anomaly of timing,” said Ford Motor Co. Executive Chairman Bill Ford, “because the SUV segment is growing so fast and there are a lot of models proliferating.”

Ford, which is planning to bring back the Bronco model, has four new SUVs coming over the next four years, including updates to existing ones. But all the Ford brand had to show was a spruced up Fusion family sedan.

“There are no show stoppers” at this year's event, said Jeff Schuster, an analyst with LMC Automotive. “There definitely was an opportunity to give consumers what they want. And what they want is SUVs.”

Buick did have a new SUV to show, at least one that is new to Americans. The Envision will be imported from China this year. For its North American debut, GM had it tucked away to the right of the stage where the much-praised Buick Avista concept coupe was shown.

Buick got some buzz in Detroit this year with a car it isn’t planning to make - a 400-horsepower coupe built on the underpinnings of the Chevrolet Camaro sports car.

When asked why GM wouldn’t sell it, company President Dan Ammann was pragmatic: “Because everyone wants SUVs.”


Mercedes-AMG CLA 45 tested

                Humans have a penchant for assuming the grass is always greener on the other side. Not always true but we find comfort in the thought, whether it’s played out in a job hunt, a migration decision – or an adulterous affair.

So, automotively speaking, if the standard CLA 200 or CLA 250 Sport don’t rock your boat, Mercedes-Benz will point you to what could assuredly be a better driving experience in the Mercedes-AMG CLA 45 4MATIC.

The refreshed CLA 45 arrived in Malaysia last September with better styling and an upgraded interior. This, being an AMG car, it comes with performance upgrades.

The pre-facelift model was already powerful in its own right and the new one piles on the performance with an improved engine along with a retuned suspension, better aerodynamics and various cosmetic changes.

The engine is certainly impressive for the RM409K that’s traded for the car, which is a whopping RM172,000 premium over the base version.

We could think of many other ways to spend that money. Like getting a much bigger luxury car whose performance wouldn’t be shabby either. But big isn’t always what every car buyer wants.

There are those who like them small, light and powerful, the better to make ‘em dance to the driver’s steering and pedal input.

They are a select few who would think nothing of plonking down that amount of cash in the pursuit of motoring pleasure. And it is by its nature a selfish pursuit with little thought given to practicalities, which are best left to the one or two SUVs/MPVs parked in the family garage.

If a mini CLS-looking car with real performance chops grabs you, the CLA 45 is right up your alley. In the AMG realm, this fully imported model is “affordable” luxury, serving as a starter car to move up the AMG totem pole.

In this refresh, the numbers and feature set are made more appealing.

With 381hp (+21hp) and 475Nm (+25Nm) on tap, the CLA 45 remains arguably the most potent 2.0-litre car in town, accelerating from rest to 100kph in just 4.2 seconds, compared to 4.6s previously. Combined fuel consumption is 6.9l/100km though you would be hard put to achieve such low figure in reality, but that number is of cursory importance to those who pick the CLA 45.

This car was never bought because the owner wanted to save a bit of petrol. No, it’s for hedonistic pursuits, and the only thing that matter is to salve the itchy right foot by letting it loose on the go pedal as often as is desired out on the open road.

When it comes to thrust and low-end punch, this car, lowered as it is, can really go fast – and looks good doing so. Few would dispute that.

Thanks to a guy named Martin Topf, the engine of the test car purred as sweetly as a shopping addict after a satisfying retail therapy session. Topf is but one of a number of AMG technicians whose job is to hand-build each engine to completion under the Mercedes-AMG policy of "One Man — One Engine"

With the name plate of the technician affixed to each engine he builds, the AMG car owner will always know who personally assembled the heart of his ride. It’s one of the little charming touches of the AMG brand, you see.

On the outside, the CLA 45 is a figure of sporty aggression coupled to swoopy lines.

A big part of the huge cash outlay goes into the AMG mill but it also pays for the better detailing and muscular front and rear bumpers as well as 19-inch AMG light-alloy wheels.

The CLA 45 shows off a darkened diamond radiator grille with twin louvre finished in silver chrome. LED High Performance headlamps are standard where previously it wasn’t. The AMG front apron is now fashioned in a new A-wing design with front splitter inserts in matt titanium grey and high-gloss black flics that help to improve the flow of cooling air.

The rear diffuser insert comes with four vertical fins. A black AMG spoiler lip at the rear plus spoiler lips over the simulated air outlets on either side at the back round off the exterior.

Open the doors and frameless windows set the tone for entry into the cabin.

Like the muscular-looking exterior, the cabin is dramatised through the use of carbon fibre panelling and a dark interior that’s interspersed with red accents on the dash as well as the leather upholstery.

Seatbelts are fiery red and both rows of seats have red stitchings and detailing, which are more lavish for the sports seats upfront.

A beefy steering wheel with paddle shifters and studded pedals are standard fitment. Instrumentation is well laid out and within easy reach in a cabin that looks well put together.

Unlike the standard CLAs, the AMG variant gets a proper gear lever on the traditional centre console – as it should be - instead of a stalk behind the steering wheel.

It hooks up with AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7-speed sports transmission that has shorter gear ratios this round. On top of that, the AMG DYNAMIC SELECT allows the driver to choose from different drive modes that modify the engine, transmission and steering behaviour according to his whims and fancies.

Look up and there’s a sunroof that is retractable on days when you want to let in the sun and the wind.

The front seats are what refined sport seats should look like, being purposeful and providing high lateral support when the car starts getting tossed into corners. Rear seats lack thigh support and are tight even though seats have been thinned a bit, proving that there’s only so much space you can carved out in a small car.

Besides, it’s often the case that back row passenger comfort plays second fiddle in many driver-oriented performance cars.

The saving grace is that for short trips, rear passengers should find it bearable.

From the piloting point of view, rearward vision is okay but is reduced to letterbox slot if the midship headrest in second row is raised.

On the other hand, there’s little to complain about the 470l of boot space which is reasonable in this class.

Wake up the engine, and it fires up with a pop and crackle from the quad pipes to remind all it's no ordinary runabout. With a little shiver, the car meshes the 7-speed dual clutch and gets going.

On the move, the enormous power and speed prove to be highly pleasurable especially with the accompanying soundtrack from the rear pipes, which take on a raspier tone from mid-range onwards.

The elevated exhaust note, however, may not be appreciated by neighbours on a quiet Sunday morning.

If there was any turbo lag, we didn't feel it as we rev the engine to quicken the pace. With this car, going fast is the default, and pottering along in crawling traffic is most vexing.

Few cars on local roads can match it for outright thrust and there's little danger of challengers overtaking it unless the CLA 45 driver allows them to.

AMG engineers have tuned the CLA 45 suspension to be a bit softer than the A 45, both of which share the same platform. While the A 45 is meant to be the hot hatch, the CLA 45 is presented as the more laid back sibling.

With drive to the four corners, the CLA 45 is grippy and predictable; steering is communicative with good road feel so you really know where the wheels are pointing.

The CLA 45 offers up four drive modes: “Comfort“ (C), "Sport" (S), "Sport+" (S+) and "Individual" (I). The Individual setting allows for full manual mode with shifting done via paddle shifters.

City driving with all the troublesome stop-start traffic it entails is best done in Comfort mode. Turn the heat up in the three other sportier modes and the car's dynamics sharpen up for the joyride.

The CLA 45 is in its element when tackling corners though there's some understeer when shoving the front-biased car around.

The 4MATIC system is able to shunt 100% of the torque to the front axle or split it 50:50 between the axles as required within milliseconds.

With performance cars like these, brakes have to be better than okay. In this regard, the CLA 45's stoppers are highly effective, showing minimal fade, as we worked the car hard during three days of driving.

As we returned the key to Mercedes-Benz, we could say without reservations that the CLA 45 is no pretender. Cloaked in curvy sheetmetal, it has the scope to be beastly at a moment's notice. As it was meant to be.


Proton achieves best first half result in 11 years

                SUBANG JAYA: Proton recorded its best first half of the year results since 2012.

With 14,351 units sold in June (domestic + export), total sales now stand at 77,321 units, equivalent to an increase of 28.6% over the previous year and outpacing total sales growth for the industry by more than three times.

 X50.

For June, total industry volume (TIV) is estimated to be 61,900 units and as a result, market share for Proton is estimated at 23.2% while the year-to-date market share figure has increased again to 21.3%, an improvement
of 3.2% over the corresponding period of 2022.

This is the highest growth figure among the top five brands in Malaysia’s automotive market, which also grew by 9.4% in the first half of the year.

Proton models performed outstandingly in June with five models leading sales in their individual market segments.

 Saga.

The Saga retook the lead for A-segment sedans by going over the 6,000-unit threshold for the third time this year and ending the month with 6,111 units.

Cumulatively, 33,325 units have been sold thus far, which is the model’s best performance since 2012.

The newest addition to Proton’s range performed even better in percentage terms.

Deliveries of the X90 have now begun in earnest and increased more than four times in June.

 Persona.

Some 1,082 units of Proton’s first new energy vehicle (NEV) were delivered, which vaulted the model straight to the top of the D-segment SUV category.

Another model to finish at the top of its market segment in June is the Persona.

With 2,254 units sold in June, it retook the lead for B-segment sedans while also retaining its position as the overall segment leader after six months.

The Persona is Proton’s best performer in terms of individual sales growth, posting an impressive increase of 79.4% despite the introduction of newer and more expensive rivals from other brands.

The X50 meanwhile retains not only its overall lead for B-segment SUVs but also its position as the most popular SUV in Malaysia, a distinction held since its market launch in October 2020.

Proton sold 2,449 units in June while cumulatively, 17,562 units have been delivered this year, an increase of 9.9% over 2022.

Proton’s fifth overall segment leader is the Exora, which remains unchallenged in the C-segment MPV market.

The company sold 368 units in June, leading to a cumulative 21.5% increase in sales.

The Iriz meanwhile achieved 842 units in June, third best in its segment, but overall sales have mirrored the performance of the Persona with a 58.6% jump this year.

Finally, the X70 posted its second-best performance for the year with 1,245 units sold last month.

Proton Edar chief executive officer Roslan Abdullah said the company's performance in the first half of 2023 was noteworthy as it had achieved its best start to a year since 2012 and is also on track for a fifth consecutive year of sales growth.

 Roslan.

“The numbers show demand for our products remains strong despite projections of a reduction in liquidity for consumers, and this is proven by our growth rate outpacing the overall market by over three times.

“It also shows that our strategy of offering high-quality products with connectivity technology at varying price points allows us to cover a large portion of Malaysian car buyers.

“For the second half of the year, Proton is confident we have the products and promotional strategies in place to continue our growth trajectory.

“We will also execute our plans to update our range, launch our entry into the Malaysian EV market with PRO-NET and further improve the quality of our products via investments announced this year to improve our production capabilities,” said Roslan.


Peugeot drives back into the US market but not with cars

                PARIS: It's been 26 years since Peugeot last set foot on US soil. It shut down its north American operations on August 6 1991. But on Wednesday it returned as a service provider, not an automaker.

The company that can currently claim to be France's largest carmaker in terms of volume is returning to the States in general and to Seattle in particular to launch Free2Move, a smartphone-app-based transport aggregation service.

Rather than provide users with direct access to its own short-term rental car or a ride hailing service, Free2Move crunches the data available from a myriad of existing service providers, from Car2Go and Zipcar to those on two wheels such as Spin Bike. Then it calculates the optimum way for a user to reach his or her destination based on cost, time and availability.

"As mobility services evolve and innovate based on the way people think about and consume mobility, bringing Free2Move stateside provides us with a unique way to address consumer demands, as well as a flexible platform to roll out future products," said Groupe PSA's North America President and CEO, Larry Dominique.

The service is already live in the company's native France as well as Britain, Germany, Spain, Italy Austria and Sweden and boasts over 400,000 regular users. The company plans to roll out the app across the US gradually starting in Seattle as the city is investing heavily in integrated mobility.

"We're pleased to announce today that we will begin our North American operations in Seattle," said Groupe PSA Senior Vice President of Mobility, Brigitte Courtehoux. "As we begin to add more providers and roll out to new cities, Free2Move will enrich the lives of Americans who embrace innovative, non-traditional forms of transportation."

Like all major established automakers, Peugeot is taking steps to reinvent itself as a mobility provider rather than simply a car company. General Motors and Jaguar Land Rover have both invested millions of dollars in Lyft. Daimler, Mercedes-Benz parent company has its own car sharing business, car2go, and only last week snapped up US-based ride sharing start-up Via Transportation with the aim of expanding its services to continental Europe.

"The decision to launch a service that helps people move around in the most efficient way underscores our commitment to the future of Groupe PSA," said Dominique.


You will be able to charge up your EV at some Petronas stations soon

                KUALA LUMPUR: Petronas has agreed to install 66 electric charging stations nationwide by the end of this year as part of government efforts to turn Malaysia into an electric vehicle (EV) hub.

The charging stations would be located at Petronas stations along major highways in the country.

Petronas would first deploy the GreenTech-branded charging stations known as ChargEVs at its stations along NKVE and Solaris Putra by the end of this month.

Petronas' marketing arm Petronas Dagangan Bhd signed the Memorandum of Understanding with Malaysian Green Technology Corporation (GreenTech Malaysia) at the 7th International Greentech & Eco Products Exhibition & Conference Malaysia (IGEM 2016) last week.

To promote electric vehicle use, both organisations will also conduct a joint study on energy efficient stations to find out how to enhance the infrastructure for electric vehicle ownership and usage in the country.


Volvo Car Malaysia expands used car programme

                KUALA LUMPUR:  Volvo Car Malaysia is extending its pre-owned car programme, Volvo SELEKT, to more Malaysians through its authorised dealer Western Circle (PG) Sdn Bhd in Penang, with additional listings available on carlist.my.

Volvo SELEKT was launched last year to provide pre-owned Volvo cars to customers. Previously offered only through Sisma Auto Glenmarie, Western Circle will be the second of two authorised Volvo dealerships to house SELEKT cars.

Located in Juru, Western Circle services customers and clients in the northern region of the peninsula.

In addition to physical dealerships, consumers can also browse and shop for Volvo cars – either Volvo SELEKT or Volvo quality used cars – from their homes through the Volvo Used Car Locator, an online platform that holds an inventory of all Volvo pre-owned cars available across 14 dealerships in Malaysia.

In response to the positive reception, increased demand for pre-owned Volvo cars, and the convenience of online browsing, Volvo Car Malaysia has partnered with iCar Asia to list all available pre-owned models from Volvo’s participating authorised dealers on its online buying and selling used car listing platform, carlist.my.

Volvo Car Malaysia managing director Charles Frump said customers who bought a Volvo under the Volvo SELEKT programme were not just getting a more streamlined shopping experience of quality cars at a more accessible price but also peace of mind through dedicated service and assurance of quality.

"All Volvo SELEKT cars undergo Volvo-approved checks to ensure that they meet the safety, performance, and appearance standards. This check and selection process can only be done by authorised Volvo Car dealers.

"Consequently, each dealership holds the same criteria for all pre-owned vehicles and conducts a series of checks and updates to ensure that all Volvo quality used cars are maintained up to Volvo’s standards," he said.

Additionally, new Volvo SELEKT car owners will get a complimentary 12-months warranty and a 1-year maintenance service package (VSA 1), as a headstart.

For more information on the Volvo SELEKT programme and its offerings, visit Volvo Car Malaysia’s Used Car Locator at https://selekt.volvocars.com.my.