European carmakers' leather use fuelling deforestation, says NGO

                LONDON: Some of Europe's biggest car giants including BMW and Jaguar Land Rover use leather linked to deforestation in South America, threatening the most vulnerable tribes, environmental campaigners Earthsight claimed on Wednesday.

The non-profit organisation said the automakers buy leather for vehicle interiors initially sourced from cattle ranching on illegally razed land in a part of Paraguay that is home to one of the world's last tribes with no contact with outsiders.

The London-based group said the leather from the Paraguayan Gran Chaco, a region rich in biodiversity that is home to jaguars and giant anteaters, enters the auto industry supply chains via Italian tanneries.

"Our investigation highlights the urgent need for EU and UK legislation mandating car companies and other industries to conduct proper due diligence," Earthsight said in a lengthy report titled "Grand Theft Chaco".

However, it alleged that trade groups linked to the automotive industry have lobbied the European Union and German governments to water down or scrap proposed new laws to require companies to clean up their supply chains.

"If they are to avoid being branded hypocrites, the car giants must now come out in public support of meaningful regulations," Earthsight added.

"If they don't, it is essential European lawmakers stand firm against lobbying to the contrary."

Earthsight's investigation identified cattle ranches that have illegally cleared forest inhabited by the Ayoreo Totobiegosode, said to be the only indigenous people living in voluntary isolation in the Americas outside the Amazon rainforest.

Undercover visits

During undercover visits, it found Paraguayan tanneries which supply Italian counterparts bragging that they provide leather for a number of famous cars, including BMW models and the Range Rover Evoque.

BMW told the NGO it had "no information" that its Latin American leather supply chains were "affected by the problems presented" but that it was "exploring options for extending traceability systems further".

It added in a statement that it had investigated the possible violations and been assured all company standards had been met, but was seeking further detailed information from Earthsight.

The firm, which owns the MINI and Rolls Royce brands, added that its "medium-term strategy" is to phase out leather from the region altogether.

Jaguar Land Rover, which noted that its leather suppliers are based in mainland Europe and Scotland but sources hide from all over the world, said it took immediate action to investigate.

"We tracked the supply chain that Earthsight references and we have not as yet found evidence to verify that we have been supplied with hide from an illegally cleared area," it added.

"We continue our drive for further transparency."

Earthsight said it was easiest to trace the leather being used by BMW because the German automaker had shown "more concern over the source of their leather than most of their competitors".

But the NGO found no car firm was able to trace all of its leather back to ranches, which it said was essential if links to human rights and environmental abuses are to be avoided.


President of Japan's Nidec resigns over weak earnings

Nagamori (main pic). Inset at top is Kobe and Seki.
UPDATE: Seki has since been hired by Taiwan's Foxconn as its chief strategy officer for electric vehicles. He reported for duty from Feb 1, 2023.

TOKYO: Japan's Nidec Corp, a major manufacturer of electric motors, has replaced its second-in-command and will choose the next president from within the company in the spring of 2024, it said on Friday.

Jun Seki, president and chief operating officer who once held the chief executive position, will resign to take responsibility for a deterioration in the company's earnings, Nidec said.

In the meantime, vice chairman Hiroshi Kobe will take over the role from Saturday.

The announcement comes after repeated attempts to quell concerns over finding a suitable leader to succeed founder and chairman Shigenobu Nagamori.

At a news conference on Friday, Nagamori said Kobe will only serve temporarily, as the company will choose five vice presidents in April next year and appoint one of them to be the president in April 2024.

"As for why it took so long for my successor, I take full responsibility for that," Nagamori said. "In retrospect, I was under the false impression of finding a better successor outside the company as opposed to inside."

Nagamori, 78, recruited Seki, a former Nissan Motor Co executive, in 2020 to help Nidec become a major player in components for next-generation automobiles.

Seki became CEO in June 2021 but was demoted less than a year later with Nagamori expressing dissatisfaction with the company's business performance and a fall in its stock price.

Nidec's automotive products unit, which was led by Seki, this year reported a first-quarter operating loss, hit by Covid-19 lockdowns, a global micro-chip shortage as well as high restructuring expenses and development costs. Nidec's overall operating income was, however, essentially flat for the quarter.

On Friday, Nagamori said he "was shocked" by poor performance of the unit led under Seki, adding the company will not bring in people from outside the company to immediately take over the top role in the future.

He also reiterated his remarks from an earnings call in July that he wanted to hand over the reins in two years and denied speculation that he intends to remain in the role long-term.

Kobe, 73, has been with Nidec since its founding in 1973.

Nagamori said he has an "absolute trust" in Kobe whom he has known for 55 years and will work together to improve the performance of the company.


Chile's unique Atacama desert sullied by world's junk

                SANTIAGO: It may be one of the driest places on Earth — a brutal, alien landscape where life seems impossible.

But Chile's massive Atacama desert is a unique and fragile ecosystem that experts say is being threatened by piles of trash dumped there from around the world.

Mountains of discarded clothing, a graveyard of shoes, and rows upon rows of scrapped tyres and cars blight at least three regions of the desert in northern Chile.

"We are no longer just the local backyard, but rather the world's backyard, which is worse," said Patricio Ferreira, mayor of the desert town of Alto Hospicio.

The Atacama, with its striking otherworldly beauty and expansive salt flats, has also been transformed by intensive mining for copper and lithium.

Carmen Serrano, head of the Endemic Roots environmental NGO, said that most people see the Atacama as nothing more than "bare hills" where they can "extract resources or fill their pockets."

'Lack of global awareness'

Chile has long been a hub for secondhand and unsold clothing from Europe, Asia, and the United States, which is either sold on throughout Latin America, or ends up in rubbish dumps in the desert.

Spurred on by the world's insatiable appetite for fast fashion, this chain last year saw over 46,000 tonnes of used clothing funneled into northern Chile's Iquique free trade zone.

Full of chemicals and taking up to 200 years to biodegrade, activists say the clothing pollutes the soil, air and underground water.

The heaps of hand-me-downs are sometimes even set alight.

"The material is highly flammable. The fires are toxic," said lawyer and activist Paulin Silva, 34, who has filed a complaint at the country's environmental court over the damage caused by the mountains of trash and clothing.

"It seems to me we need to find those responsible," she said, standing amid the discarded items which she said were "dangerous, an environmental risk, a danger to people's health."

Used cars also flood into the country from the free trade zone. Many are exported to Peru, Bolivia or Paraguay, while others end up dumped in graveyards kilometres wide in the surrounding desert.

Piles of abandoned tyres are also scattered across the desert.

The mayor Ferreira lamented a "lack of global awareness, a lack of ethical responsibility and environmental protection" from "the unscrupulous of the world."

"We feel abandoned. We feel that our land has been sacrificed."

A 'very fragile' ecosystem'

For more than eight million years, the 100,000 square kilometre expanse of the Atacama has been the most arid desert in the world.

Rain is rare, and in some parts, non-existent.

The driest part is the Yungay district in the city of Antofagasta. Here, scientists have found extreme forms of life, microorganisms that have adapted to a practically waterless world, high levels of solar radiation, and barely any nutrients.

Scientists believe these microorganisms may harbour secrets to evolution and survival on Earth and other planets.

Nasa considers the Yungay district to be Earth's most similar landscape to Mars, and uses it to test its robotic vehicles.

While it doesn't receive much rain, large banks of fog roll across the desert, allowing some plants — and some of the world's hardiest lichens, fungi, and algae — to grow.

Scores of brightly coloured wildflower species bloom when it gets above average rain in a spectacular display that happens every five to seven years, most recently in 2021.

It is an ecosystem that is "very fragile, because any change or decrease in the pattern of precipitation and fog has immediate consequences for the species that live there," said Pablo Guerrero, a researcher at the Institute of Ecology and Biodiversity and expert in desert cactus.

"There are cactus species which are considered extinct" as a result of pollution, climate change, and human settlement.

"Unfortunately, it is something we are seeing on a massive scale, with systematic deterioration in recent years."


Shell to give away 500 bottles of Advance AX7 motorcycle engine oil

                KUALA LUMPUR: Shell is looking to give back to bikers and bike mechanics via its #OutrideAnything campaign and gets ready to give away 500 bottles of its Advance AX7 semi-synthetic engine oil to bikers.

To receive a free 1.0-litre bottle during the campaign period (from June 27 until July 11), participants will need to log on to a dedicated site and answer a simple quiz correctly to be in the running.

The company boasts that the Advance AX7 semi-synthetic engine oil is able to enhance fuel economy and reduce maintenance costs.

Additionally, it also has the ability to a bike achieve better mileage by as much as 36km per full tank of petrol.

For those who purchase a 1.0-litre bottle of the oil from a participating workshop, they will receive a free bandana (while stocks last).

Meanwhile, as more bike workshops reopen, more than 2,000 local bike mechanics are set to benefit from the Shell Advance Masterclass training programme.

Now in its fourth year, the programme is a unique learning and certification initiative aimed at upskilling bike mechanics and workshop owners.

The programme comprises of a series of online videos developed in collaboration with renowned MotoGP master mechanic Jeff Oh to guide and provide mechanics with knowledge and tips on proper motorcycle maintenance.

The interactive modules are delivered to participants via visits to workshops by the Shell Advance team and through demonstration videos on the Shell Advance Masterclass website.

“We hope that our Shell Advance Masterclass programme can help local mechanics gain further recognition for their skills and outride challenges to build a better future for themselves,” said Shell Lubricants marketing general manager May Tan.

For more information, log on to www.shell.com.my/advance.


JPJ in final stages of preparing for VEP system

Liow monitoring the traffic situation and RC operations during his visit to the Bangunan Sultan Iskandar CIQ complex in Johor Baru.
JOHOR BARU: The Road Transport Department (JPJ) is in the final stages of synchronising its system in preparation for the Vehicle Entry Permit (VEP).

To date, at least 200,365 Singaporean vehicle owners had registered online ahead of the VEP implementation, Transport Minister Datuk Seri Liow Tiong Lai said.

The date of implementation had yet to be fixed as the ministry was still gathering online registrations and data, he added.

“We are synchronising the registered data with JPJ’s MySIKAP system. The VEP will be paid via an RFID (radio frequency identification) tag.

“The tag is like a sticker with a barcode that should be placed on the windshield of the vehicle,” he told pressmen during a visit to the Bangunan Sultan Iskandar Customs, Immigration and Quarantine complex (CIQ) yesterday.

Once the implementation began, Liow said, the tags could be collected at the stations listed on the portal where the vehicle owners had registered earlier.

He said unlike the recently implemented RM20 road charge (RC), the VEP was important to weed out cloned cars and foreign-registered vehicles that entered Malaysia without exiting, as well as those with unpaid compounds or traffic summonses.

Liow encouraged Singaporeans who had not registered to do so.

“I would like to point out that this is not a move to discriminate against Singapore-registered vehicles as the same charges will be introduced in stages at other entry points in the country – at the borders of Indonesia, Thailand and Brunei,” he said.

The RFID tags could eventually be used to pay the RC as well, as an alternative to the Touch ’n Go payment system used currently, he added.

A fee of RM10 would be charged upon registration via https://vep.jpj.gov.my. The VEP is renewable every five years.

On the RC, which started on Nov 1 for foreign-registered vehicles entering Malaysia through Johor, Liow said operations had been smooth so far.

“We have JPJ officers and enforcement personnel monitoring the 38 lanes at the CIQ here and 24 lanes at the Second Link to ensure there are no hiccups,” he added.


2018 CNY festive promotion by Volkswagen

                KUALA LUMPUR: Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM) Aftersales has launched a Chinese New Year promotion from the 22nd January till 28th February 2018 with a complimentary 20-point safety check to ensure a safer drive and peace of mind for all Volkswagen owners during the festive season.

Customers who spend RM800 and above on service and maintenance at any Volkswagen Service Centre will also receive exclusive merchandise.

Additionally, all Volkswagen Aftersales customers will receive a Chinese New Year goodie bag, while stocks last.

This Aftersales promotion is running concurrently with VPCM's "Leader of the Pack" Chinese New Year promotion, which offers cash rebates, "Liquid Gold" Petrol Card worth RM1,118 and limited edition LEGO Volkswagen T1 Camper Van on the purchase of any Volkswagen car from now till the 28th of February 2018.


How do speed cameras actually work? Everything you need to know

                FRANKFURT: Just about every driver knows the feeling: You coast past a police car or a speed camera, instinctively slam on the brakes and take a quick, nervous glance at the speedometer. How much were you over the speed limit?

According to the ADAC, Germany's largest automobile club, around 2.8 million drivers per year in that country alone are caught driving above the speed limit. They can expect to receive not only fines but also penalty points on their licences, and potentially also increases in insurance premiums.

But how are speeding offences measured in the first place? The classic among speed measurement instruments, especially in Europe, is the stationary speed camera. It is usually installed in such a way that it can be used to measure speed in both directions of travel, depending on the "shooting direction."

Three brass strands containing piezoelectric crystals are placed a few centimetres below the surface of the road, about one metre apart from each other, explains Tobias Goldkamp, a traffic ??lawyer.

When a car passes over them, electricity is generated through the movement of the sensitive crystals. Using these electric charges, the speed can be calculated based on the distance between the three brass strands. "The box is only responsible for taking the photo," says Goldkamp. This enables the authorities to record the driver's licence plate and send them the resulting fine by mail.

Speed traps with radars are also used in various forms, most often as mobile speed cameras. "The devices emit radar beams that are reflected by the vehicle as it passes," says Jens Doetsch, another traffic law expert.

"When the measuring threshold is exceeded, a photoelectric device is triggered, which is usually visible in the form of a flash," Doetsch explains. Radar technology is the most error-prone of all modern measuring systems because of the wide radar waves it employs.

Another sight that is becoming increasingly common in some areas of the world is silver columns with dark rings on them. Underneath this unassuming exterior lie laser speed measuring systems.

"With laser technology, light pulses are emitted, which are then reflected by the vehicles. This allows us to calculate the speed," explains Sebastian Ramb from Vitronic, a company that specialises in manufacturing laser-based speed measurement devices. Other companies in the same sector include Jenoptik, VDS and Gatso.

The lasers can cover up to four lanes at a time. In contrast to stationary cameras, the fully digital systems do not have any film reels that need regular replacement. "The data can either be read out by authorised personnel via encrypted USB sticks, or sent over an encrypted connection," says Ramb.

The measuring range can also be deduced from the number of dark rings on the silver pole. "Poles with four rings measure in both directions, while those with three rings only cover one direction of travel," explains Ramb.

Behind the dark covering in the upper section of ??the poles, there are lighting units with the flash apparatus. The measuring equipment, including the cameras, is at the bottom of the pole.

Laser beam measurement is also an increasingly common method for speed traps. Device models like the ESO ES 3.0 have five sensors; if a car passes through the lasers, the speed can be calculated from the time elapsed between the beam interruptions, explains Doetsch. "At the same time, photo boxes are built alongside the laser devices to provide photographic evidence."

In instances when a police car is attempting to detect the speed of other cars on the road, this is usually measured using video images. "The speed of the police car is then used as a reference point," says Doetsch.

Anyone using apps to detect speed cameras or receive warnings about upcoming speed traps should be careful. "In principle, warning systems aren't allowed," says Doetsch, with a fine and penalty points being a usual punishment. "In the worst-case scenario, the device itself can be confiscated."

The purchase of such apps is not usually forbidden, however, and people who use them while in their car enter a legal grey area. Specifically, it is not yet entirely clear whether speed trap warning apps are also prohibited when used by passengers.


Police carrying out stringent checks on road users

A soldier ordering a driver to turn back at a roadblock in Johor Baru. — Bernama
PETALING JAYA: Traffic in the Klang Valley has picked up recently despite the movement control order (MCO) still in effect.

In Selangor, police have noticed an increase in traffic volume since the third phase of the MCO.

Selangor Traffic Investigation and Enforcement Department chief Supt Azman Shariat said there were more cars on the road at various roadblocks.

“The traffic becomes congested because of the stringent checks. If the queue is too long, we will open two lanes to carry out inspections.

“But this can only be done on certain roads as some stretches are too narrow to accommodate additional lanes, ” he said.

Kuala Lumpur Traffic Investigation and Enforcement Department chief Asst Comm Zulkefly Yahya said there was a slight increase in traffic in the city.

“This is probably due to more establishments allowed to operate in phase three of the MCO.

“Traffic is usually heavy between 6.30am and 8.30am with people going to work.

“When congestion occurs, we will open up two lanes at roadblocks to smoothen things, ” he said.

The police urged the public to remain indoors and comply with the MCO. Those who need to go out to buy essential items should plan their journey and visit the nearest outlets.

Selangor deputy police chief Deputy Comm Datuk Arjunaidi Mohamed said the time for warning errant motorists to abide by the MCO is over and they would be arrested on sight.

He said after two phases of the MCO, the public should already know what they could or could not do during this period.

“We will no longer warn and give advice. Now we will arrest those who defy the MCO."


Audi testing digital sealing in car production

                SINGAPORE: Audi is testing a new method of body sealing at its paint shop in Gyor, Hungary.

Before a car is given its paint finish, a paste-like sealing material is applied to areas such as the weld seams. This improves vehicle acoustics, guards against corrosion and seals off the interior.

The new method ensures complete freedom in determining the thickness and width of material to be applied. This makes it possible to apply the sealing material more quickly and with high precision.

The new, automated process is known as digital sealing. A robot-guided applicator deposits ultra-fine droplets of uniform quality to the body with outstanding accuracy. Beforehand, trained system operators program the optimal width and thickness of material to be applied. Thanks to the precision involved, almost none of the sealing material goes to waste. Since less material is used, the overall weight of the vehicle is reduced by several kilogrammes— lightening up improves vehicle dynamics and cuts carbon emissions.

Audi said the new process also benefits employees, as their work are made easier. The benefits of the new method are most apparent in hard-to-reach places that are subject to exacting quality requirements concerning tight seals. In the past, these steps in the process often called for a lot of experience and meant demanding ergonomics, including working overhead on the vehicle underbody.

Another example is sealing the cut-outs for the rear lights, known as the “lamp pots.” Audi and its development partner Atlas Copco are now trying out the new method for this purpose in a series production facility for the first time at the paint shop at Audi’s site in Gyor.

The new, automated process also saves time and improves the visual appearance of the seals thanks to its consistent level of precision. A patent application has been filed, and the method is due to be rolled out at additional Audi sites.


When a DJ draws inspiration from the sound of an electric sports car

                DETROIT: The sound of a Ford Mustang Mach-E, the latest 100% electric version of the legendary sports car, can be heard on the latest track, "New Breed," by American electro composer Matthew Dear.

When designing the car, Ford paid particular attention to developing the car's sound quality, so that it could be perceived both inside and outside while in motion. And the engineers involved in the project turned to science-fiction movies for inspiration

READ MORE: US gives automakers at least six more months to meet 'quiet car' rules

The project to make it into a musical track, initiated by the manufacturer itself, immediately appealed to the Detroit-based DJ: "The idea of remixing the sounds from the Mustang Mach-E was immediately interesting because I've always considered myself to be a ‘sound tinkerer,'" said Dear.

The title "New Breed" is available on all streaming platforms.

The all-electric Mustang Mach-E boasts a power output of up to 248 kW, the equivalent of 332hp. It is available starting at US$43,895 (RM182,000) for first deliveries scheduled for late 2020.


BMW iX Flow named to TIME’s List of Best Inventions 2022

                NEW YORK: The BMW iX Flow was named as one of TIME’s List of Best Inventions 2022.

The annual list features 200 extraordinary innovations.

The BMW iX Flow featuring E Ink is a unique vehicle capable of changing its entire body color at the touch of a button and was first revealed at the Consumer Electronics Show 2022 in Las Vegas.

By making it possible to alter the body colour and display different patterns, the BMW iX Flow opens up a whole new way of personalizing the driving experience.

A variable exterior colour can also contribute to wellness in the interior and to the efficiency of the vehicle.

This is done by taking account of the different abilities of light and dark colors when it comes to reflecting sunlight and the associated absorption of thermal energy. A white surface reflects a lot more sunlight than a black one.

By implication, heating of the vehicle and passenger compartment as a result of strong sunlight and high outside temperatures can be reduced by changing the exterior to a light color. In cooler weather, a dark outer skin will help the vehicle to absorb noticeably more warmth from the sun.

In both cases, selective colour changes can help to cut the amount of cooling and heating required from the vehicle's air conditioning.

This reduces the amount of energy the vehicle electrical system needs and with it also the vehicle's fuel or electricity consumption.

In an all-electric car, changing the colour in line with the weather can therefore also help to increase the range. In the interior, the technology could, for example, prevent the dashboard from heating up too much.

E Ink technology itself is extremely energy efficient. Unlike displays or projectors, the electrophoretic technology needs absolutely no energy to keep the chosen colour state constant. Current only flows during the short colour changing phase.

Electrophoretic colouring is based on a technology developed by E Ink that is most well-known from the displays used in eReaders.

The surface coating of the BMW iX Flow featuring E Ink contains many millions of microcapsules, with a diameter equivalent to the thickness of a human hair.

Each of these microcapsules contains negatively charged white pigments and positively charged black pigments.

Depending on the chosen setting, stimulation by means of an electrical field causes either the white or the black pigments to collect at the surface of the microcapsule, giving the car body the desired shade.

To compile the list, TIME solicited nominations from TIME’s editors and correspondents around the world, and through an online application process, paying special attention to growing fields such as the electric vehicle industry, green energy, and the metaverse. TIME then evaluated each contender on a number of key factors, including originality, efficacy, ambition, and impact.

Of the new list, TIME’s editors write, “The result is a list of 200 groundbreaking inventions (and 50 special mention inventions) including life-mapping artificial intelligence, diamonds made from excess carbon in the air, and the most powerful telescope ever that are changing how we live, work, play, and think about what’s possible.

The full list is available here: time.com/best-inventions-2022


Proton dresses up Saga with goodies, SV variant axed

                PETALING JAYA: Proton has unveiled a new Saga variant called the Saga Plus, which gets five additional items at no extra charge.

Slated as the replacement for the Saga SV variant, the Saga Plus comes with a set of 14-inch alloy rims, a full body kit, spoiler, rear garnish body colour and a “Plus” grade mark.

The new variant carries the exterior of the Saga Executive variant while retaining the SV’s price bracket.

The Saga Plus is priced from RM33,242 to RM36,576 depending on transmission type and colours. Transmission is either the five-speed manual or the continuously variable type while the engine is a 1.3-litre CamPro IAFM.
“This means that there is no price increase despite having the improved looks.

“The Saga Plus design not only appeals to those with a small family but also to youths and young executives who have just entered the employment market,” said Proton chief executive Datuk Abdul Harith Abdullah.


MG Cyberster debuts at Auto Shanghai

                LONDON/SHANGHAI: MG announced at Auto Shanghai 2023 that it would start production of its high-performance EV sports car – Cyberster.

The two-seat roadster marks a much-anticipated return to sportscar production by the marque, with Cyberster poised to bring the story right up to date with its powerful all-electric powertrain and contemporary cabin featuring cutting-edge driver technology.

An interactive gaming cockpit and 5G connectivity are some of the high tech features.

The Cyberster range is estimated at 800km and it has a sub-3s sprint time from 0-100kph.

“Our intention was to create a completely new roadster ready for a new generation of sportscar drivers and which opens a bold and compelling new chapter for MG,” said Carl Gotham, Advanced Design Director of the company’s Marylebone design studio in London.

“The focus for Cyberster was to create a design that was respectful of the brand’s illustrious past and to bring back that sporting bloodline, while also being absolutely clear that it should be modern and forward-facing like the MG of today, completely in-tune with the rapid transition to electric vehicles.”

Cyberster is expected to arrive for sale in the UK and Europe in the summer of 2024. Pricing will be announced in due course.

The MG sports car returns …… pic.twitter.com/hiR8BhlsFh
— MG Motor UK (@MGmotor) April 13, 2023


Mercedes-Benz 9G-TRONIC production begins

                STUTTGART: Mercedes-Benz has unveiled its world's first nine-speed 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission for premium vehicles with rear-wheel, all-wheel, hybrid or plug-in hybrid drive.

The German luxury coach builder touts its new gearbox to be excellent in terms of smoothness with scarcely perceptible gear-shifts and in turn improves on both efficiency and noise levels.

At its launch, the 9G-TRONIC has been made available in the Mercedes-Benz E 350 BlueTEC and the GLE Coupé (C 292) was the first model series to be equipped from the outset with this transmission.

The all-new E-Class drive variations available at market launch are now equipped as standard with the new transmission with further plans for it to be used in almost all Mercedes-Benz model series with a longitudinally mounted engine.

Production of the transmission has already begun at Daimler's (Mercedes-Benz's parent company) Romanian subsidiary Star Assembly in Sebes and will be investing a further 300 million euros to expand its transmission-manufacturing capacity.

This will translate into 1,000 new jobs being created for the new production area that covers the size of around ten football fields, which will have some 500km of cables and roughly 5,000 tonnes of metal for its construction.

“With the expansion of transmission production in Sebes, we are able to respond more flexibly and efficiently to the growing demand for automatic transmissions,” said Mercedes-Benz Cars (manufacturing and supply chain management) divisional board member Markus Schäfer.


World’s largest rooftop solar panel installation for Falken tyre plant in Thailand

                FRANKFURT: The world’s largest rooftop solar panel installation on a single facility, measuring 100,000 square metres - the size of over 18 football pitches - is under construction for Falken at parent company, Sumitomo Rubber Industries (SRI) factory in Thailand.

Comprising 40,000 solar panels with a total output of 22MW, the new installation will generate enough solar power to support manufacturing a range of Falken tyres destined for Europe, once completed in January 2025.

The investment in the new solar panel installation, along with gas co-generation system and biomass electric power system energy initiatives at the Rayong Province facility will enable it ultimately to use 100 percent renewable energy.

As well as adopting solar power, a new gas co-generation system, comprising two 6.6MW boilers, powered by renewable energy sources, will replace energy supplied by local utility companies.

Biomass, derived from the surplus branches and trunks after rubber trees are harvested, as part of SRI’s Sustainable Natural Rubber programme, will provide additional electrical power.

In total, the new initiatives will reduce total annual CO2 emissions by 38,000 tonnes.

Driven by SRI’s long-term sustainability policy, "Driving Our Future Challenge 20505" the latest initiatives will help accelerate its carbon neutral goals.

This aims to reduce annual Scope 1 and 2 CO2 emissions by 50 percent (compared to 2017 emissions) with its 2030 target now set to be achievable one year ahead of schedule.

READ MORE:
Proton to boost solar power adoption with appointment of second photovoltaic supplier
Proton unveils solar power facility at Tanjung Malim
Toyota plant in Thailand to increase solar energy usage
Stellantis expands use of solar power at Gurun plant
UK group introduces world's first pop-up mini solar car park and EV charging hub


BMW UK rolls out digital car locator to aid customer purchase

                LONDON: With the re-opening of dealerships across the UK, BMW Group UK has launched new digital car locator tool on the BMW and MINI websites to support customers with their next purchase.

BMW and MINI customers using the new car locator will have real time access to the entire network of new stock vehicles at retailers across the country. Each vehicle listing provides extensive technical details, specification information, pricing and accompanying imagery.

To start the process customers select the models they are interested in and set their initial budget (monthly or "on the road").

They enter their postcode and are prompted to select one retailer from a list of their five closest locations. Newly introduced functionality provides for a powerful search of the retailer’s local, group and national new vehicle stock that is typically available for handover within two weeks.

Vehicles can be sorted by "on the road" pricing, or, thanks to full integration with BMW Financial Services, by the customer’s monthly payment budget.

The latter feature supports a high level of refinement as customers are able to adjust their finance product, deposit contribution, contract duration and/or mileage terms to suit their circumstances.

Results can then be filtered based on personal preferences such as colour combinations, fuel types, transmission and more. Up to three vehicles can be added to a shortlist throughout the refinement process and compared side by side in detail.

Once the right vehicle has been identified, the final step of the process involves either submitting a contact enquiry to the chosen retailer, or paying a £500 (RM2,692) reservation deposit by credit or debit card there and then. Where customers choose to reserve their car online, their selected retailer will contact them directly to discuss the next step.

BMW said it is seeing a sustained rise in web traffic. Online car reservations were up by 130% in May on the previous month, with this trend continuing into June.


Walmart plans own EV charger network at US stores by 2030

                NEW YORK: Walmart plans to have its own network of electric vehicle charging stations for public use by 2030, to tap into growing adoption of EVs in the United States.

The new fast charging stations will be placed at thousands of Walmart and Sam's Club stores, alongside nearly 1,300 it already operates as part of a deal with Electrify America, one of the country's largest open public EV networks.

Walmart's more than 5,000 stores and Sam's Club warehouses are located within 16km of about 90% of Americans.

"We have the ability to address range and charging anxiety in a way that no one else can in this country," Vishal Kapadia, Walmart's recently-appointed senior vice president of Energy Transformation told Reuters, adding that the new stations will also address issues around reliability and cost.

Kapadia said the strategy entails less risk and will allow Walmart to offer an experience and price "in a way that is not possible when a third party is involved in the equation".

While there are not yet many EVs in the US as a proportion of the total number of cars on the roads, this is beginning to change as high gas prices, increasing state subsidies and new more affordable models have quickly accelerated adoption.

A US$5 billion investment by the Biden administration to launch a national charging network is also expected to drive EV sales. By 2029, EVs could account for a third of the North American market, consultancy AutoForecast Solutions forecasts.

With about 240 million customer visits to its stores each week, the new stations could provide Walmart with data on how shoppers pay for them or the time spent at a particular store.

Kapadia said he expects the new charge points to be DC fast chargers, with about 4 chargers on average installed per store.

Walmart declined to comment on details of the investment and said it is in the process of identifying a supplier.


Personalise the Mercedes-EQS with MANUFAKTUR

                STUTTGART: Mercedes-Benz has announced its individualisation programme MANUFAKTUR is now extended to the new EQS, the electric version of the S-Class.

Special paint finishes and high-quality interior refinements expand the possibilities for putting together an EQS to suit the owner's personal taste.

Below are some examples from the MANUFAKTUR range for the EQS:

> Nine MANUFAKTUR paints are available, including those familiar from the S-Class such as MANUFAKTUR vintage blue non-metallic or MANUFAKTUR kalahari gold magno (€7,021.00 each in Germany).

> As with the S-Class, there is the MANUFAKTUR Interior Package (from 11,007.50 euros). It is available for the EQS from Mercedes, also in combination with AMG Line interior, as well as the EQS from Mercedes-AMG. It is offered in combination with comfort suspension seats; availability depends on market.

The front and rear seats are finished in nappa leather and feature intricate diamond quilting.

Nappa leather in a MANUFAKTUR colour is also used for the armrests in the doors, the centre console and the lower section of the instrument panel. The MANUFAKTUR colours tobacco brown, mystic red and rosé grey are new. Another highlight is the MANUFAKTUR steering wheel covered by hand in nappa leather, colour-coordinated with the respective interior colour.

The high-pile floor mats are edged in nappa leather. The floor mats and head restraint cushions are embroidered with the Mercedes-Benz star or the Mercedes-AMG logo.

The illuminated door sill trims bear the lettering of the respective brand and a MANUFAKTUR exclusive pattern. The centre console is adorned with MANUFAKTUR lettering in a high-sheen chrome look. Executed in cursive script, it testifies to the label's claim to quality craftsmanship.

> The Emblem Package (from €1,487.50) is available for the standard interior with black seat upholstery and black carpet. High-pile floor mats and head restrain cushions are embroidered with the Mercedes-Benz star ton-in tone. Note that the package is offered in combination with AMG Line interior and not for Mercedes-AMG models and availability depends on market.

The MANUFAKTUR range was introduced a year ago. Back then, it was launched in exclusive model series such as the Mercedes-AMG GT 4-Door Coupé, the S-Class long-wheelbase version, and the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class..

Under the programme, selected materials are predominantly processed by hand, exclusive paint finishes and high-quality embellishments in the interior offer a wide range of options for an individual appearance. The German car maker said the individualisation range had been well received by customers.

A corresponding programme has already been available for the G-Class for several years: the "G manufaktur" presents its own selection of materials and colours specially adapted to the vehicle architecture.


Want to buy new F1 world champion's Honda Civic Type R?

                PARIS: A Honda Civic Type R belonging to Max Verstappen, the 2021 Formula 1 world champion, will go up for sale on the Internet to benefit Red Bull's Wings for Life nonprofit foundation.

Freshly crowned F1 world champion for the first time in controversial conditions after the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, Max Verstappen is now parting ways with his company car. His Civic Type R is going on sale at CarNext.com, the driver's partner for two seasons.

Max Verstappen used this car to travel around during the different stages of the world championship, mainly between his hotel and the paddock. Like all the vehicles on the CarNext.com platform, this car was checked and fully reconditioned before being put up for sale. The champion himself checked that it was in working order.

The car sales platform intends to put this Honda Civic Type R 'Max Verstappen Edition' up for sale on Dec 23, 2021, at a price of €33,333, on a "first come, first served" basis. The vehicle purchased will be delivered directly to the buyer's home.

Proceeds of this sale will be donated in full to the Wings for Life nonprofit foundation, which aims to find a cure for spinal cord injuries.


DS 9 to launch in September with French luxury and optional hybrid

                PARIS: Since the demise of the Renault Vel Satis, Citroen XM and Peugeot 605, French carmakers have not had much to offer in the upper middle class. But now DS is lining up the DS 9 model, set to go on sale in September.

The flagship of the French division in the Stellantis Group is to compete against cars like the Audi A6, the BMW 5 Series and the Mercedes E-Class.

The 4.93-metre-long sedan with a hatchback and plenty of chrome details is said to be unmistakable even at night because of its characteristic lights.

In addition to the exterior design, the French maker claims to have chosen particularly fine materials and to have applied a great deal of finesse with artisan methods.

In addition, the car's interior will bring high-tech equipment with a night vision system and online infotainment, as well as comfortable seats and a forward-looking chassis, the premium marque says.

Under the bonnet, DS is going with the trend and phasing out diesels. Instead, they want to attract frequent drivers and company car customers with three plug-in hybrids.

Some of these will also have all-wheel drive and will deliver an electric range of between 48km and 60km. The most powerful plug-in hybrid has 360hp.

The first two models are a 2.0-litre petrol engine and only one plug-in. Both achieve an output of 225hp.

The internal combustion engine has a standard consumption of 5.6 litres (CO2 emission 128 g/km), while for the part-time electric DS gives figures of 1.6 litres and 35 g/km. This makes top speeds of 236kph and 240kph possible.

The second plug-in will be a version with 250hp and a range of around 60km later in the year.

The DS9 is priced at upwards of €47,550 (RM240,000) in its home market.

At the top of the spectrum, there will then be a version with two electric motors and all-wheel drive for at least €64,250 (RM324,000), which achieves a system output of 360hp.


Tesla's Musk relocates to Texas from California; compares himself to war general

Musk says tech companies in Silicon Valley had too much influence on the world and predicted a decrease in their power. — Reuters
SAN FRANCISCO: Silicon Valley billionaire Elon Musk said on Tuesday he had relocated to Texas from California as he wanted to focus more on Tesla Inc’s new electric car plant and his SpaceX venture in the Lone Star state.

Musk confirmed the move in an interview with Matt Murray, the Wall Street Journal’s editor in chief.

“The two biggest things that I got going on right now are the Starship development in South Texas ... and then the big new US factory for Tesla,” the 49-year-old Tesla chief said.

“It wasn’t necessarily a great use of my time here (in California)”.

Texas might potentially offer some tax reprieve for the world’s second richest man. It does not collect personal income tax while California has some of the highest state tax rates in the United States.

An over 670% jump in Tesla shares this year has boosted Musk’s net worth from US$27 billion to US$155 billion, just behind Amazon.com Inc’s Jeff Bezos, according to the Bloomberg Billionaires Index.

In a conversation touching a wide range of topics including government intervention, technology companies and corporate policy, Musk criticised CEOs of other US companies for not focusing enough on their products.

“If you find yourself spending a lot of time giving presentations and reviewing spreadsheets, you’re barking up the wrong tree,” Musk said.

The billionaire also compared himself to a war general and said, “If you think about war ... do you want the general in some like ivory tower or on the front lines? The troops are going to fight a lot harder if they see the general on the front lines.”

Musk said tech companies in Silicon Valley had too much influence on the world and predicted a decrease in their power.

On Tesla’s move to raise US$5 billion in capital, he said: “We thought we can retire a lot of the debt and increase the security of the company ... have more of a war chest.”

Musk has earned Tesla stock options related to his 2018 pay package that are currently worth almost US$20 billion.


New Honda Civic teased, prototype to debut on Twitch Nov 17

PETALING JAYA: Honda is not taking the traditional path with the debut of the next generation Honda Civic prototype which will be exclusively showcased on the streaming gaming platform Twitch on Nov 17, 2020.

The Japanese marque had announced the date and released a very short video showing bits and pieces of the upcoming prototype.

The video shows what looks like the sedan variant and the hatchback should be making its way soon enough because the latter usually gets the Type R treatment.

What we do see from the teaser is a slim Solid Wing grille, sleeker headlamps, new taillights, a kink on the C-pillar, and a new snazzy interior among other things.

We'll know more once its fully revealed on Nov 17.


Amazon may buy robo-taxi startup Zoox, says WSJ

                SAN FRANCISCO: Amazon is in talks to buy robo-taxi startup Zoox, accelerating its efforts when it comes to self-driving vehicles, the Wall Street Journal reported on Tuesday.

Alphabet, Uber, Tesla and major car makers have been investing in technology that eliminates the need for humans to navigate vehicles.

Amazon has its own team in the race and is said to be pursuing the technology with an eye towards using it in trucks moving goods for the e-commerce colossus.

Amazon and Zoox are in advanced negotiations of a deal that would value the startup at less than the US$3.2 billion (RM14bil) it was estimated to be worth in a funding round two years ago, the Journal reported, citing unnamed people with knowledge of the matter.

The take-over talks could yet break down, according to the report.

Based in Foster City near here, Zoox was founded in 2014 with a mission to build a "fleet of fully autonomous, battery electric, zero-emission vehicles that are purpose-built and optimized for ridesharing in cities."

Zoox late last year targeted Las Vegas as a market for an "autonomous driving fleet and service" by vehicles that could be summoned using a smartphone app, according to its website.


Hyundai Mobis invents world’s first rollable vehicle display

                SEOUL: Hyundai Mobis says it has succeeded in developing the world’s first rollable display for automotive applications.

Users can adjust the display size depending on situation. The display takes up a minimal amount of space, which, in turn, is expected to significantly improve the automotive interior design.

The rollable display features a screen that rolls up and down when displaying driving information including the navigator.

The screen disappears when the engine is turned off; drivers can roll the screen up just one-third of display with only the minimum driving information required.

The display is scaled up to two-thirds when using navigation; it can be switched to full-screen mode with the 16:9 aspect ratio to watch videos while the vehicle is parked or when the car is being charged.

Hyundai Mobis plans to introduce the rollable display, which was partly introduced in the smartphone and the TV market, into automotive market and win orders from overseas.

The primary target audiences are North American and European luxury brands. Hyundai Mobis said the technology has proven to be reliable and durable, attracting the interest of many customers worldwide.

The rollable display will be placed where the navigation system is currently installed.

The display takes up a minimal amount of space, and as a result, is expected to revolutionise automotive interior design. In purpose built vehicles (PBVs) for leisure activities and families, the display can be installed on the ceiling between the front and the back seats and let it roll down or alternatively, it can be installed sideways next to the seats.

Hyundai Mobis' rollable display comes in either QHD resolution or higher. The company said it can make super-sized displays of 30 inches or more. The biggest feature of the rollable display is its lightweight structure with minimal volume. It only requires 12cm of depth for the rollable display to be installed near the driver's seat.

In today’s in-vehicle infotainment market, display technology for in-car entertainment is rising as the new growth driver. The existing LCDs are fast replaced by super-sized plastic OLEDs of 20 inches and larger.

With this in mind, Hyundai Mobis has been working on rollable display for the past two years.

So far, the company has developed the instrument panel (cluster), 360° Surround View Monitor (SVM) system, head-up display (HUD), focusing on the internalised infotainment capability.


Ford will challenge dealers to match Tesla's lower selling costs

                DETROIT: Ford Motor Co chief executive Jim Farley will go to Las Vegas next week to roll the dice on a strategy to convince dealers to cut as much as US$2,000 (RM8,996) from the cost of delivering an electric vehicle to a customer.

Ford has told dealers that one key topic for the meetings will be a discussion of new agreements that would govern how dealers sell Ford's expanding lineup of electric vehicles.

Farley told analysts in July that Ford needs to cut US$2,000 a vehicle out of selling and distribution costs to be competitive with Tesla Inc and other electric vehicle startups that sell directly to consumers without franchised dealers.

About a third of those savings could come from what Farley called a "low inventory model," where customers order a vehicle and Ford ships it to the customer, rather than stocking vehicles on dealer lots for weeks or months.

"We think that's about - worth maybe US$600, US$700 in our system," Farley told analysts. Tesla can also adjust prices rapidly on its website, and keep most of the gain from a price increase.

Ford declined to comment other than to say “we are excited to meet next week with our North America dealers to grow and win together.”

Dealers said they expect Ford to outline minimum investments for charging stations and other equipment to support electric vehicle customers.

A key question will be how quickly dealers will be required to install chargers, which dealers said can cost as much as US$500,000.

"The manufacturers so far have let us scale into it and I think Ford will hopefully do the same thing. You just can't say, 'Listen, we're going to sell 2 million electric cars five years from now and we expect you to put in five superchargers,'" said Rhett Ricart, owner of Ricart Ford, a large dealership in Columbus, Ohio.

Tesla's success at selling electric vehicles without franchised dealers is putting pressure on all established automakers to overhaul their retail networks.

A shift by Ford to a Tesla-style build to order system could come with caps on the profit margins dealers can earn on a new vehicle sale, some dealers said.

"I see dealer margins still being very competitive, but they are going to shift," Farley said in July. Ford intends to put more emphasis on selling products and services after the initial vehicle sale, he said.

Dealers said state franchise laws could give dealers leverage to resist efforts by Ford to set fixed prices or fixed fees for delivering electric vehicles.

Rival General Motors Co last week said it would offer buyouts to US Buick dealers who did not want to make required investments as the brand shifted to an all-electric lineup. GM has already spent US$274 million to reduce the ranks of US Cadillac dealers. read more

Josh Sloan, the general manager who oversees two Ford stores and one Lincoln store for Michigan's LaFontaine Automotive Group, said his company is prepared to spend what it takes to shift to electric vehicles.

"I was surprised there weren't higher standards from Ford sooner," Sloan said. "We're moving into this really fast. If you're not all-in, you're going to lose."


7-speed dual clutch auto introduced in selected MINI models

                MUNICH: The MINI 3 door, MINI 5 door and MINI Convertible are getting a 7-speed Steptronic automatic transmission with double clutch.

According to MINI, the new gearbox for the MINI would result in extremely fast gear changes, a high degree of shift comfort and optimised efficiency. It is offered in conjunction with selected engine types and as an alternative to the standard 6-speed manual transmission. The new double clutch transmission provides impressive shift dynamics for enhanced driving fun while at the same including all the comfort features of an automatic transmission.

The design principle of the double clutch transmission has been adapted from motor racing. Just like on the race track, it allows MINI drivers to undertake highly dynamic acceleration manoeuvres by enabling upward gearshifts without torque interrupt.

The driver can keep the accelerator pressed down while the transmission control sets the shift points so precisely within just a fraction of a second that the ideal engine speed is always available after the gearshift to ensure a continuous increase in speed.

The double clutch transmission is operated by means of a newly designed electronic selector lever which always returns to its original position after changing between driving mode D, neutral position N and reverse mode.

The parking lock is activated by pressing the P button. S mode can be activated from position D by shifting the selector lever to the left: this supports a particularly sporty driving style as well as allowing manual intervention in the choice of position. The electronic control of the new double clutch transmission for MINI also includes a shift strategy based on navigation data and supports both the engine start/stop function and coasting so as to reduce fuel consumption and emission levels.

The increase in drive positions as compared to the 6-speed manual transmission benefits both sporty flair and ride comfort. The seven gears of the double clutch transmission enable a broader spread of gears, thereby reducing the differences in engine speed between the various drive positions.

Together with the direct engine link that is characteristic of the double clutch transmission, the small rev jumps make for particularly intense driving fun when accelerating. This applies to automated shifts in D and S modes as well as to manual interventions in the selection of drive positions in M mode.

In S mode the gearshifts occur at increased engine speeds and with further increased shift dynamics. In S mode, the driver can also spontaneously switch to manual shifting. Here, manual gear selection is sequential. The selector lever is briefly moved forward to shift down and raised slightly in order to move up to the next higher gear.

In automated mode, driving fun can also be enhanced by linking the transmission control to the optional MINI navigation system. The double clutch transmission control unit is then able to draw on navigation data to adapt its shift strategy to the given situation on the road. When approaching a sharp bend or junction, for example, a downshift is made early on so as to be able to make use of the engine braking effect for deceleration purposes.

When passing through two bends in quick succession, the drive position engaged after downshifting is maintained so as to avoid any unnecessary shifting and ensure the ideal gear is available for powerful acceleration on exiting the bend.

To minimise fuel consumption when stopping at junctions, for example, the double clutch transmission also allows use of the engine start/stop function. In addition, The coasting function is available in the MID and GREEN driving modes.


Win a superbike in BHPetrol-Drive M7-Digi contest

                BANGSAR: BHPetrol customers stand a chance to win a superbike in another attractive contest run by Boustead Petroleum Marketing Sdn Bhd, which markets and distributes BHPetrol fuel and lubricants.

The contest is open to those who buy Digi Prepaid Reloads at participating BHPetrol stations or DriveM7 energy drinks, from 1st November to 31st December 2016.

Customers get 10 per cent instant reward of Free Internet Credit when reloading Digi RM30, RM50 or RM100 during weekends, and are entitled to join the contest.

Also, buy 2 cans of Drive M7 energy drinks at a special price and you can join the contest.

All contest entries are to be submitted via smartphone by scanning the QR codes or visit http:/goo.gl/8zDZFI to access the contest website.

The grand prize is a Yamaha R1 Superbike sponsored by Mutiara Motor Sdn Bhd.

Monthly prizes are Pocket Mini Bike (2 winners) and Samsung Galaxy Note 5 (2 winners).

Consolation prizes are Drive M7 merchandise items (100 units).

The contest is a collaboration between BHPetrol with Mutiara Food & Drinks (M) Sdn Bhd and Digi Telecommunications Sdn Bhd.

BHPetrol senior marketing manager Baba Tan said, “This is one of our ways to show our gratitude to our customers, and seeing their happy faces when driving out of our stations is a great satisfaction to us.”

For more details about the promotion, log on to www.bhpetrol.com.my


Consumer Reports slams reliability of Tesla Model S

                DETROIT: Consumer Reports said it would no longer recommend Tesla's Model S sedan due to reliability concerns, in a blow to the luxury electric-powered car initially awarded the highest-ever score in the U.S. magazine's performance ratings.

The decision, based on the influential publication's annual survey of vehicle reliability, sent shares of Tesla Motors Inc  reeling and underscored the risk of introducing cutting-edge fuel-saving technology and digital multimedia systems in vehicles.

Consumer Reports found "an emerging trend of increased troubles" with a broad range of vehicles that use new transmission technology to boost mileage. The survey was presented by the magazine's editors at a meeting of Detroit's Automotive Press Association on Tuesday.

The findings illustrate automakers' challenges as consumers and regulators demand more innovation.

Groundbreaking technology comes with a heightened risk of malfunctions over the life of a vehicle, compromising the reliability car owners enjoy from more mature technology.

The magazine said Tesla owners have reported "an array of detailed and complicated maladies" in their Model S sedans.

Still, 97 percent of Tesla owners would buy another Model S, the magazine found, citing quick responsiveness on repairs from the Palo Alto-based company "with a minimum of fuss to owners." One of the most technologically adventurous cars on the market, the Model S registered a worse than average reliability score based on survey responses from 1,400 owners.

The battery-powered Model S P85D was lauded in August for racking up the best scores ever in the magazine's performance tests. But owners complained of rattles, leaks, and problems with the charging equipment, drivetrain and center console displays, Consumer Reports said.

"Close communication with our customers enables Tesla to receive input, proactively address issues, and quickly fix problems," a Tesla spokesperson said.

"Over-the-air software updates allow Tesla to diagnose and fix most bugs without the need to come in for service. In instances when hardware needs to be fixed, we strive to make it painless."

Complaints about balky multimedia infotainment systems continue to plague several major automakers, including Ford Motor Co, Nissan Motor Co, Fiat Chrysler Automobiles NV and General Motors Co, the magazine found.

Honda Motor Co's Acura luxury brand fell seven places to No. 18 in the magazine's ranking of 28 brands because of problems with transmissions and in-car entertainment systems.

Overall, Toyota Motor Corp's Lexus brand was the top-ranked brand in the magazine's reliability survey. The highest-ranked Detroit brand was GM's Buick, at No. 7.

Fiat Chrysler Automobiles NV's Fiat brand came in last.


Progress towards a more powerful lithium-air battery

                LONDON: A new kind of chemistry could power lithium-air batteries over long-standing technological hurdles, leading toward a product that may one day be strong enough to replace gasoline in cars, researchers said recently.

Rechargeable batteries have been around for decades - the lithium-ion battery that powers many mobile devices is marking its 25th anniversary next year - but scaling up the technology to the level of powering automobiles has proven difficult.

Researchers have spent years looking into a kind of battery known as lithium-air, or lithium-oxygen, which could provide 10 times more power, and possibly enough energy density to compare with gasoline, but these too have been plagued by practical problems.

While an ultimate lithium-air battery remains at least a decade away, researchers at the University of Cambridge say they have patented a technology that overcomes some of the major obstacles.

Senior author Clare Grey, a chemistry professor at the University of Cambridge, said her team's "significant achievement" has been making strides toward high capacity "and the fact that we've taken the efficiency down into numbers that compete with current lithium-ion technology," she told reporters.

Since the technology is still in the lab phases, it is not possible to directly compare it to currently available technologies, she said.

But the latest approach has shown increased energy efficiency of up to 93 percent, and does so by relying on a very different kind of chemistry than previous attempts, employing lithium hydroxide (LiOH) instead of lithium peroxide (Li2O2).

The "demonstrator relies on a highly porous, 'fluffy' carbon electrode made from graphene (comprising one-atom-thick sheets of carbon atoms), and additives that alter the chemical reactions at work in the battery, making it more stable and more efficient," said a statement from the University of Cambridge.

The result is another step on the path toward to a more practical, high-powered battery, said Grey.

"We're excited by the chemistry, but we've also got quite a lot of work to do in particular to understand the mechanisms of this chemistry and optimize it and to work on getting it closer to a higher rate system."

The paper is published in the US journal Science.


Ducati Malaysia wins three global recognition titles at international dealer conference 2022

                SARDINIA (Italy): Next Bike Sdn Bhd, the official distributor for Ducati motorcycles in Malaysia, won three titles at the recent Ducati Global Dealer Conference 2022 held at The Forte Village Resort here.

They were:

> Global Distributor Of The Year 2022
> Best Marketing Team 2022 APAC
> Best Commercial After Sales Team 2022 APAC

Next Bike head of company Dennis Micheal who accepted the accolates said the recognition was a celebration of the entire Ducati Malaysia family, from the working team keeping all the gears turning rapidly every single day, to our passionate community of owners and customers.

“There is no question that the Ducati brand continues to strengthen its global presence, and the teams in every individual country have worked tirelessly.

“We are just proud, humbled and grateful that all the work has continued to yield amazing results for us,” he said.

The three awards for Ducati Malaysia also arrive as celebrations of the invaluable efforts from the local network of Ducati dealers that have continued to grow the love for the Ducati brand and bring it closer to customers nationwide:

• Ducati Sungai Buloh - Welly World Cycle
• Ducati Penang - Sheng Fatt Motor Sdn. Bhd.
• Ducati Kuala Lumpur - Madani Greatlink Sdn Bhd
• Ducati Johor Bahru - Ultra Maxlink Sdn Bhd


Zurich General Insurance makes road tax and insurance renewal easier

                KUALA LUMPUR: Zurich General Insurance Malaysia Berhad has announced a collaboration with Finology Sdn Bhd to help make road tax and insurance purchases easier.

"With economic activities starting to resume, we understand the importance of road tax renewal, as well as motor insurance so Malaysians can commute to work with peace of mind as the renewal exemption period ends," said Zurich General Insurance chief executive officer Junior Cho.

Through Finology's affiliate partner PayLink Global (Payquik), road goers will be able to access Payquik's 250 kiosks nationwide - the first of its kind in Malaysia.

The kiosks - available 24 hours a day, are generally located in offices of utility companies, shopping malls and government buildings for better convenience.

This way, convenience has now been factored in to help Malaysians find a quick and convenient solution when renewing their road tax and motor vehicle or motorcycle insurance.

Cho added that the three-way collaboration with Finology and Payquik will help widen the access for drivers and riders to obtain the service and protection they need in a fast and easy manner.

According to a 2018 statistics from the Road Transport Department (JPJ), there are about 29 million registered vehicles in Malaysia - of which only 19 million vehicles renew its road tax every year and about 95% of those with expired road tax are motorcycles.

"The reality is that there are still customers who prefer to pay with cash or who do not own a credit card. This means that these people do not have sufficient access to the necessary financial services online," said Finology managing director Jared Lim.

Lim added that enabling motor insurance purchasing and road tax renewal through kiosks is a great alternative to paying online or over the counter.

The latest collaboration is a joint effort to promote financial inclusion and offer Malaysians comprehensive coverage while on the road.

In 2019, Zurich and Finology collaborated to offer customers end-to-end online insurance quotation and purchase services via Finology’s platform loanstreet.com.my.


Ford unveils all-electric E-Tourneo Courier for Europe

                COPENHAGEN: Ford has revealed the all-new E-Tourneo Courier here as part of "Bring On Tomorrow Live" – a showcase event for Ford’s electric journey.

The E-Tourneo Courier is a five-seat multi-activity vehicle with a distinctive SUV-inspired design, offering plentiful space for passengers and their belongings within a compact city-friendly footprint.

The latest addition to Ford’s versatile Tourneo family features a refined all-electric driveline, complemented by an extensive array of digital experiences and connected features to help make EV ownership attractive and accessible, with convenient over-the-air updates to enhance the product over time.

“Exciting new products like E-Tourneo Courier are the future of Ford in Europe – electric, fun, and fuelled by a restless need for adventure. Our new all-electric multi-activity vehicle is the latest demonstration of our multi-billion dollar global push to scale EV production and deliver connected, must-have vehicles for our customers,” said Martin Sander, general manager, Ford Model e, Europe.

E-Tourneo Courier is one of 10 all-electric vehicles Ford has committed to offering in Europe by 2024, as it targets zero emissions for all vehicle sales in the region by 2035.

The company is investing US$50 billion globally through 2026 to achieve a targeted run rate of more than 2 million all-electric vehicles by the end of that year.

The all-electric model will arrive in 2024 for customers across Europe.  It follows the EcoBoost petrol-engined Tourneo Courier that opens for order this summer, with initial deliveries before the end of 2023.

Designed for adventure

E-Tourneo Courier was developed from the ground up to deliver a spacious and practical design in a manoeuvrable and compact package. Short overhangs and direct, straightforward lines strengthen the exterior’s visual width and toughness, while the EV-only front end features a futuristic-looking coast-to-coast light bar and Ford signature chrome diamond grille.

“We designed E-Tourneo Courier to help customers get the most out of life – whether out with family and friends or coming home with the rear seats flipped and bikes in the back – and the exterior design expresses that ‘no-nonsense’ character,” said Amko Leenarts, Design director, Ford, Europe.

The all-electric multi-activity vehicle is developed to carry five adults and their luggage in comfort, and with practicality optimised using a 60-40 split rear bench and over 44 per cent more boot space than the outgoing Tourneo Courier.

Occupants also benefit from improved shoulder room and headroom, as well as a range of convenient stowage options including a configurable centre console, hidden boot cubby and 44-litre frunk.

The onboard digital experiences are centred around the “digiboard” instrument panel that features a full digital instrument cluster and SYNC 4 infotainment controlled via the large 12-inch touchscreen.

The fully connected cabin features wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay integration, as well as a phone charging pad to stay connected on the go. Over-the-air updates can improve functionality over time without the need to visit a dealership.

E-Tourneo Courier is available with a range of stylish series choices, including the distinctive Active model with contrast roof colour, wheel arch mouldings, roof bars and unique seat fabrics.

New all-electric experience

Smooth, refined all-electric journeys are enabled by E-Tourneo Courier’s 100kW (136PS) e-motor, further enhanced using a selectable one-pedal driving mode.

It boasts the most comprehensive suite of advanced driver assistance systems in class and drivers can select from Normal, Eco and Slippery drive modes.

The vehicle offers both 11kW AC and 100kW DC charging options, and charge management is made easier with Ford’s end-to-end home charging solution, handy app, and scheduling capability to take advantage of cheaper energy tariffs where available.

A typical 7kW overnight domestic charge from 10-100 per cent takes 7.8 hours.

Ford software and the BlueOval Charge Network, which is one of the largest in Europe and set to include 500,000 chargers by 2024, also facilitate public charging.

At a DC fast charger, customers can add 86km range in just 10 minutes and charge from 10-80 per cent in under 35 minutes when needing a fast top-up away from home.

E-Tourneo Courier will be produced in Craiova, Romania, from the second half of 2024 alongside the Puma crossover – Ford’s best-selling passenger car in Europe, set to offer an EV variant by 2024.

The all-new Tourneo Courier with a 125PS 1.0-litre EcoBoost turbocharged petrol engine enters production later in 2023.


Ineos takes one-third share in Mercedes F1 team

                LONDON: Chemicals giant Ineos is taking a one-third share in Lewis Hamilton's Mercedes team alongside parent company Daimler and team principal Toto Wolff, the Formula One champions announced last week.

Ineos, owned by British billionaire Jim Ratcliffe, will be an equal partner in the team. Daimler will reduce its current 60 percent shareholding and Wolff will increase his current 30 percent.

Under the new structure, Wolff, 48, will continue in his role as team principal and CEO for a further three years.

Ineos, which has a growing sports portfolio including football, cycling and sailing interests, was announced as Mercedes' principal partner earlier this year.

The British-based Mercedes team have won seven consecutive double world championships — drivers' and constructors' championships — since 2014.

"Big challenges are a core part of our mindset at Ineos and our involvement across a number of different sports demonstrates that we always aim for the very best," said Ineos chairman Ratcliffe.

"When we entered Formula One earlier this year, we chose to do so with a Mercedes team that had set new benchmarks, and since then we have been in discussions about how we could increase our involvement."

Wolff said: "This new investment from Ineos confirms that the business case for Formula One teams is robust and sends an important signal of confidence in the sport after a challenging year."

British world champion Hamilton is yet to sign a new contract at Mercedes but looks set to stay.

A post on the team's official Twitter page on Thursday carried the hashtag "announce" accompanied by the "coming soon" and "pen" emojis along with a quote from Hamilton expressing his desire to stay with Mercedes.

The 35-year-old won a record-equalling seventh Formula One title last month, six of which have come since his switch from McLaren to Mercedes in 2013.


Bosch goes for platinum-light fuel cells

                LONDON: Global automotive supplier Bosch expects platinum to play only a minor role in its new fuel cells, giving precious metal markets scant benefit even as the technology gains momentum for pollution-free transport.

According to Reuters calculations, Bosch would only need a tenth of the platinum used in current fuel cell vehicles.

Hopes of reviving demand and prices of platinum increasingly hinges on widespread uptake of fuel cells in vehicles, ships and trains to make up for dwindling amounts used in each device, analysts say.

The spot price of platinum has shed more than 40 percent in the last five years, burdened by persistent oversupply, before rebounding slightly in recent months.

But hopes that fuel cells will boost long-term demand may be dampened after Germany’s Robert Bosch GmbH told Reuters that platinum was expected to play only a “minor role” in its plans to mass produce fuel cells.

Privately-owned Bosch, which last month signed a deal with Powercell Sweden AB to mass produce fuel cells, said its fuel cell design was not finalised, but it expects them to use only as much platinum as a diesel catalytic converter.

A catalytic converter in a diesel passenger vehicle typically uses three to seven grams of platinum compared with around 30-60 grams currently needed for a fuel cell for the same vehicle, according to analysts.

“There has been lots of optimization work concerning platinum in fuel cells,” Achim Moritz, product manager for mobile fuel cells at Bosch, told Reuters.

“If you look at a diesel catalytic system, there is about the same amount of platinum content you need for a fuel cell,” he added.

He declined to give specific estimated figures for the S3 fuel cell system it is developing with Powercell and expects to launch by 2022, citing commercial sensitivities.

Toyota also slashes platinum

Bosch’s fuel cell deal with Powercell, announced last month, was another signal that the technology is poised to be rolled out more widely as governments toughen emissions regulations.

China is leading the way, targeting 2 million fuel cell vehicles by 2030.

Fuel cells generate electricity through a chemical reaction using hydrogen as a fuel and platinum as a catalyst, but comprise only a fraction of the electric vehicle (EV) market even though they allow vehicles to travel much longer distances between charges than battery powered cars.

For years, fuel cells were expected to boost platinum demand dramatically, but doubts have increased due to reports that scientists have found ways to cut the amount of platinum they contain.

The best selling fuel cell vehicle, Toyota’s Mirai, is expected to cut platinum by two-thirds to around 10 grams per vehicle in its next version, down from 30 grams in the current model, according David Hart, director of E4tech consultancy, based in Lausanne.

“They (fuel cell makers) all have a pathway of using less platinum, which is fairly clear,” Hart said.

Toyota Motor Corp declined to comment.

Hyundai Motor Co has cut the amount of platinum needed for the fuel cell stack in the latest edition of its NEXO, released last year, to 56 grams from 78 grams previously, a company spokesman told Reuters.

Hyundai plans to invest over 6 billion euros to make 700,000 fuel cell systems annually by 2030.

Wider uptake?

Fuel cells give EVs longer ranges and recharging takes a matter of minutes, a fraction of what is needed for batteries.

Hyundai’s NEXO has a range of 610km compared to 363km for the best-selling battery electric vehicle, Nissan’s LEAF.

That is especially useful for heavy goods vehicles and buses, which are expected to be the primary market for fuel cells initially.

“The heavy duty truck side is the biggest initial opportunity for fuel cells because they are very hard to electrify with batteries,” said Mårten Wikforss, a consultant for Sweden’s Powercell.

Batteries would take up more space in a heavy goods truck and would take hours to recharge.

Once costs come down, fuel cells may also appeal to car buyers who do not want to worry about frequent and time-consuming recharging.

If fuel cells catch on in ships and trains as well as road vehicles, platinum demand may get a boost despite the lower loadings due to the sheer numbers, some analysts said.

Global demand for platinum for all fuel cells from vehicles is forecast rise to 366,000 ounces by 2030 but to surge to 965,000 ounces when including other fuel cell and hydrogen uses, said Jonathan Butler, head of business development at Mitsubishi Corp.


VW's US recall could be thwarted by reluctant diesel owners

                SAN FRANCISCO: As Volkswagen AG prepares to explain how it might fix the polluting diesel cars that set off the biggest scandal in the German automaker's history, whatever solution it proposes could be undermined by some owners in the United States who won't bring their cars in for a recall and can't be forced to.

The cars, some 482,000 Passats, Golfs and Jettas sold in model years 2009 to 2015 in the United States, are peppy and fun to drive, owners say. Because fixing the cars is likely to result in lower performance and fuel economy, some drivers will decline, even though their cars would continue to spew 40 times the smog-producing emissions permitted by some states. If they do, there are few enforcement levers in place.

In the three states with the most VW diesel cars caught up in the emissions scandal, only California withholds registration renewals from cars that fail to comply with recalls. In Texas and Florida, which have the second- and third-highest number of VW diesels after California, there are no emission standards in place for diesel vehicles.

READ ALSO:No problemo in Malaysia, says VW Malaysia

Nationally, only 17 states are required by the Clean Air Act to confirm that owners of cars subjected to a recall show proof they have complied with it before they are allowed to take an emissions test required to register their cars, the Environmental Protection Agency said.

The EPA couldn't confirm whether the 33 other states don't require owners to prove they have complied with a recalI. Texas doesn't include diesel vehicles in its emission inspection program and Florida no longer has a vehicle emission inspection program, EPA said. It isn't known how many other states don't require vehicles to pass emissions tests.

The EPA has said a recall is likely.

"I love the car," said the owner of a diesel Passat in Florida named Thomas, who didn't want to give his last name because of privacy concerns. "However, a lot of that is based upon the performance of the car. I am very dismayed that I am now in the position of ignoring the recall to have the performance of the car versus having the recall performed and the car not performing like the one I purchased."

Jared Allen, a spokesman with the National Auto Dealers Association, said loopholes in states such as Florida are why the nationwide recall completion rate hovers around 70 percent.

"There is no enforcement mechanism that is tied to the consumer's ability to continue driving the vehicle," Allen said.

German regulators have set a Wednesday deadline for VW to disclose how vehicles will be fixed to comply with EU emissions laws.. On Thursday, VW's US head will testify before US lawmakers.

In the meantime, one owner on the VWVortex website said that VW would have to wave "a big carrot" in front of their customers to get them to comply with the recall.

That could come in the form of loyalty programs, trade-ins, or cash incentives. VW late last week informed dealers it would offer "loyalty bonuses" of US$2,000 for owners who want to trade in their cars.

Thomas from Florida said he doubted that would be enough: "I think the hit we'll take in resale will be much greater than that."

The EPA has the authority to order VW to recall the vehicles, but its authority to compel consumers to get their cars repaired is limited.

Asked about enforcement levers, the EPA said a recall wouldn't necessarily require owners to repair their vehicle. Manufacturers have to submit quarterly reports summarizing response rates to the agency, the EPA said.

But the stakes of disobeying a recall are clear: "Without the repairs, vehicles may be emitting harmful pollutants in excess of the federal emission standards," the EPA said in a statement to Reuters.

In a recall, California officials deny re-registrations to owners who fail to bring their vehicles into compliance. Vehicles are registered yearly so owners could get away without a fix for up to a year without being caught.

"I'd most likely wait as long as possible and let others be the technology pathfinders and get my cars 'fixed' only when there was a hard deadline by California after other folks get all the bugs worked out," said owner David Rosing of Los Angeles.

A majority of states, however, including Texas and Florida, have no such laws, frustrating environmentalists.

"I'm a bit surprised if Texas and Florida don't do the same thing (as California) and the EPA doesn't enforce that," said Roland Hwang, director of the National Resource Defense Council's energy and transportation program.

One thing that could affect the recall response rate is that problem is emissions-related and not a safety issue. Even in safety recalls, many vehicle owners don't take cars back to dealers to get them repaired, as they are not forced to.

According to the Alliance of Automobile Manufacturers, which is currently researching recall response rates, in 99 percent of safety recalls from 2000 to 2013, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration did not issue an unconditional "do not drive" recommendation.

That means that without Volkswagen's prodding its customers or wooing them with financial incentives, regulators can do little but hope that owners will comply.

"Regulators should be giving the orders and calling the shots," said Kristen Monsell, an attorney with the Center for Biological Diversity. "Instead, VW seems to be in the driver's seat."


German startup Sono tests solar-powered car

                MUNICH: Munich-based startup Sono Motors is testing a vehicle with solar cells integrated into its bodywork that can charge the battery as it drives along.

The charging system for the company's all-electric Sion car is reportedly in the final stages of development.

As record hot weather continues to grip the planet, a solar-powered car than can charge its battery as it drives is probably right up there on a lot of people's wishlists.

 The Sion's air filtration and humidity regulation system uses moss integrated into the dashboard. - Reuters

Germany has set a target of having at least one million electric cars on its roads by the year 2020, but at the moment it looks likely to miss it. Not wanting to fall short of its own goal, in April 2018 the German government said it would offer support to companies developing and producing batteries for electric vehicles.

The Sion electric car is the brainchild of Sono Motors, founded as recently as 2016. This fully-electric model can be charged from conventional power outlets, from other electric vehicles, and via solar power through solar cells integrated into its body.

While a vehicle body operating as a solar cell is unusual, that's not even the most radical aspect of this revolutionary new model.

 Solar panels on the bonnet. - Reuters

Perhaps the most out-there feature of the Sion is its air filtration and humidity regulation system, which uses moss integrated into the vehicle's dashboard. The manufacturer says the moss needs no watering or any other special treatment in order to maintain it.

Some 330 solar cells are attached to the vehicle's roof, bonnet and sides and the Sion will offer a range of around 250km before it needs to be recharged.

Production gets under way in the second half of 2019 and Sono already has around 5,000 orders for the car, expected to start selling next year from as little as €16,000 (RM76,000).


VW Beetle Club gets official debut

                KUALA LUMPUR: The limited edition Volkswagen Beetle Club was first previewed during the recent Kuala Lumpur Fashion Week 2015 held at the up-market Pavilion shopping centre and now it’s getting its official debut.

The new Beetle Club comes fully imported from Mexico and will only come draped in Habanero Orange with only 50 units being brought in and each will be priced from RM152,888.

To help it stand out are its exclusive aesthetics that include a set of 17-inch Ravenna wheels, “Club” lettering and chrome side sills.

Inside, the sports seats are upholstered in ‘Club’-exclusive Vienna leather with orange stitching and accents, while the steering wheel now features the ‘Club’ lettering too.

The Beetle Club uses the familiar seven-speed DSG gearbox that’s mated to a 1.2-litre turbocharged TSI engine producing 104bhp at 5,000rpm and 175Nm of torque from 1,500 to 4,100rpm.

“Since its arrival on Malaysian shores 60 years ago, the Volkswagen Beetle has preserved its reputation of being an iconic car. We seek to constantly excite our fans by bringing these limited editions to them,” said Volkswagen Group Malaysia managing director Armin Keller.

Also on display was the Jetta Club, priced from RM122,888, previously launched in May that featured a multi-media headunit with navigation and window tint.

For more information, log on to www.volkswagen.com.my.


Feb 3-9: Fuel prices unchanged

                PETALING JAYA: The retail price of RON95 and RON97 petrol will remain unchanged at RM2.05 and RM3.12 per litre, respectively, from Feb 3 until Feb 9, says the Finance Ministry.

In a statement today, it said the retail price of diesel would also remain unchanged at RM2.15 per litre over the same period.

"The government has maintained the retail price of RON95 petrol at the ceiling price of RM2.05 per litre and diesel at RM2.15 per litre even though the actual market price for both products has increased above the ceiling price set," it said.


Audi's functions-on-demand programme lets drivers keep their options open

                INGOLSTADT: Audi is rolling out a functions-on-demand programme that will enable customers to instantly upgrade their cars with additional lighting, driver assistance and infotainment functions for defined periods at any point during their ownership.

The e-tron electric SUV will be the first vehicle to benefit from the over-the-air update, with more models to follow.

The new service will offer Audi drivers greater flexibility by enabling them to add an array of upgrades in areas including lighting, driver assistance and, in the longer term, infotainment retrospectively and for specific periods such as business trips or holidays.

Customers can activate additional functions online any time after delivery via myAudi app and myAudi web portal.

The hardware for the features available as part of the functions-on-demand programme is installed in all vehicles at the factory, and is available throughout their life cycle, but each component is only "switched on" when customers either specify it at the point of order or pay to use it for a defined period at any point during their ownership.

The preferred period can be selected via the myAudi app or the myAudi web portal, which can also process bookings and payments. As soon as a transaction is completed a signed data package is generated and transmitted to the car via the mobile network, meaning the chosen function is available to the driver the next time the car is started.

Customers have a choice to try out a feature for a month at a nominal cost before committing, and they can then either choose to extend their usage of the function or leave their booking to expire automatically without any further input needed on their part.

The booked functions always apply to the car rather than to the customer, meaning that when the car is sold they remain active for the full term that has been booked and can be used by the next owner. In addition, the next owner can choose to book further functions later on to suit their needs.

The type and extent of options offered as part of the programme will depend on the model. In the first phase for the e-tron SUV they include the possibility to add a lighting package which upgrades the standard LED headlights to Matrix LED specification and a park assist system to make lighter work of parking manoeuvres.

When the Matrix LED function is activated individual segmented diodes in the high beam setting automatically dim or deactivate to give maximum illumination without dazzling leading or oncoming traffic. The driver can simply leave the system to adapt to its surroundings. Dynamic indicators, which "sweep" in the direction of intended travel, are also part of the package.

By specifying park assist, the driver can fully relinquish control of the steering when parking – the system can automatically guide the e-tron into parallel spaces and bays, leaving only the simpler tasks of accelerating, braking and changing gear as required. More functions will follow in subsequent stages of the programme.