Naza Automall sets up mid-year mega deal promotion

                KUALA LUMPUR: Naza Automotive Group, the automotive division of Naza Group, is offering a further markdown on vehicle prices with its Naza Automall Mid Year Mega Deal from now until July 15.

Customers can enjoy savings and value-added deals with further markdown prices with 5% SST in addition to the government announced sales tax exemption.

On top of that, customers are entitled to low interest rates starting from 1.88% and a free one-year warranty on various vehicles offered at Naza Automall in Petaling Jaya.

Operating times are from Monday to Fridays from 9.00am to 6.00pm and from 10.00am to 6.00pm on weekends and public holidays.

For added convenience, customers can now view the vehicle models on sale in the comfort of their own homes via several online marketplace platforms.

A video call with a salesperson can also be arranged for customers who prefer a two-way interaction for more information on the vehicle(s).

More information can also be had on the Naza Automall's social media channels (Instagram: @nazaautomall, Facebook: @nazaautomall.my).

“We are taking this opportunity to further markdown our vehicle prices so that our customers can enjoy even more savings during this tax exemption period," said Naza Corp Holdings group CEO (Automotive Group) Datuk Nik Hamdam Nik Hassan.

Adhering to the implemented health and safety measures, customers interested to test drive a vehicle are required to make an appointment with dedicated sales advisors.

However, only two people will be allowed in a vehicle at one time and the vehicle will be sanitized before and after the test drive.

Naza Automall, PJ is the largest automotive showroom in Malaysia and is your one-stop centre that caters for your automotive needs with various brands under one roof.

The Naza Automotive Group recently announced a new price list for vehicles under its automotive brands in line with the implemented sales tax exemption for locally-assembled vehicles and tax reduction for imported cars until the year-end as part of the national economic stimulus plan - Penjana.

"We also understand that some customers may have fully adapted to online shopping and are more comfortable with the online marketplace. Thus, we’ve also started exploring several digital platforms to extend our reach. We also believe that digitising our business is pivotal to the future of the automotive industry," added Nik.


Meet the most outrageous WRX STI yet from Subaru

                NEW YORK: Subaru of America revealed its most outrageous WRX STI ever.

This WRX STI is a custom-built tyre destroyer that's set to star in the next instalment of Hoonigan’s Gymkhana video series with Subaru Motorsports USA driver Travis Pastrana at the wheel.

Drawing on Subaru’s championship-winning rally and rallycross experience, this one-off STI throws out the rule book with the sole objective of taking Gymkhana to the next level.

Subaru and Hoonigan announced in May that Travis Pastrana would take over the Gymkhana series for 2020, bringing the series back to its roots—the  featured Ken Block driving Subaru WRX STI models - but promising a new take on the Gymkhana concept.

With Pastrana’s decades of experience in rally, rallycross, supercross, freestyle motocross, NASCAR and stunts, Subaru was tasked with delivering a vehicle that could do things no Gymkhana car had ever been asked to do.

The resulting build demanded the expertise of Subaru’s decades of motorsports experience, and the creativity of technical partner Vermont SportsCar to build a production-based sedan on the limit of what was possible.

This focus on extreme performance is evident from every angle, thanks to a raw carbon body with a wildly aggressive and wind tunnel-proven aero package unlike anything seen on a Gymkhana build before.

With a custom-made Subaru Boxer engine, flame-spitting hood exit exhaust, long-travel suspension, and a race-ready interior built to Pastrana’s specs, this is an STI born to shred tyres and smash expectations.

“This STI is unbelievable! We’ve never had the opportunity to do this before, to build a car with no restrictions. Engine, suspension, aero—everything is unlimited, clean sheet. It’s crazy fast, easy to control and get sideways and it was perfect out of the box in testing. Gymkhana is a new challenge for me but I want to raise the bar, and this is the car to do it,” said Pastrana.

“When we brought Subaru back to Gymkhana, we knew we had to build something outrageous. Travis always wants to push the limits, so we knew from the outset we weren’t going to do this with a rally or rallycross car. This was an opportunity for us to redefine what an STI could be, and the results speak for themselves," said Subaru of America motorsports manager William Stokes.


Volkswagen aims to beat land speed record with tricked-out Jetta

                BERLIN: The fastest Volkswagen Jetta saloon of all time is being fettled by the German carmaker for an attempt to break a land speed record on the Utah salt flats.

The weapon of choice for VW is a specially prepared version of the next-generation Jetta that has not yet been released.

The seventh edition of the conservatively styled saloon made its world debut this year at the Detroit Auto Show.

A tuned VW Beetle is the current record-holder in the BGC/G class of the Southern California Timing Association. The attempt will take place between Aug 11 and 17.

READ MORE:VW Jetta exits Malaysia

With more than 500hp on demand, the tricked-out Jetta is expected to reach a speed of more than 335kph. It has a special low-slung chassis, stripped-out, lightweight interior and two brake parachutes at the rear. The modified Jetta uses the 2-litre engine fitted to the Golf GTI and R production models.

"With this attempt at the record, we want to underline the sporting potential of the new Jetta and inspire our customers with the more powerful Jetta GLI," says Hinrich Woebcken, CEO of Volkswagen in North America.

The Jetta is one of Wolfsburg's biggest sellers, with 17.5 million turned out globally since launch in 1979.


Jaguar's legendary E-Type still turns heads at 60

The E-Type Roadster (right) with its current successor - the Jaguar F-Type.
FRANKFURT: It was a cool March day in Geneva when British carmaker Jaguar unveiled its new E-Type sports-car, but when the dust sheets came off at the motor show, visitors were hot under the collar with excitement as they craned for a glimpse.

Inspired by the successful D-Type racer, the alluring, pin-up shape was the star of the 1961 car show. The fixed-head coupe prototype had only turned up 20 minutes before the grand opening following a mad dash from the factory in Coventry. The engine was still warm.

The E-Type conquered the hearts of the High Society by storm and it still turns heads today. Designer Malcolm Sayer gave his creation a never ending long bonnet, a compact cabin and a pert rear end. After the staid XK series, the new E-Type was a revelation.

Sales exceeded all expectations. The factory expected to move just 1,000 units but ended producing five times that number in the early years.

Noted customers included US actor Steve McQueen, Brigitte Bardot, Frank Sinatra, George Harrison, Tony Curtis and Britt Ekland. They all fell in love with a sexy car that typified the Swinging Sixties along with the Beatles and the mini skirt.

The competition was bowled over too and Ferrari founder Enzo called the E-Type "the most beautiful car in the world." His verdict is clearly shared by the curators of the Museum of Modern Art in New York.

They lauded the car's perfect proportions and its influence on many models that followed. In 1966 the E-Type became only the third automobile to be honoured with a permanent place in the museum's designer collection.

The E-Type was a great on the road too, thanks to a lusty 3.8-litre, six-cylinder petrol engine up front. It turns out 269 horsepower, enabling the sportster to top 240kph.

Five victories in the gruelling Le Mans 24-hour race cemented the car's reputation for reliability and for a time it was the fastest production car in the world. Both the coupe and open-top versions were eternally popular with those who could afford them.

Later versions were powered by a thirsty 5.3-litre V12 unit, with 315 horses. The power increase coincided with the oil crisis and a gaz-guzzling sports car was a low priority, even for the rich. Production stopped in 1979 after 72,529 examples of the E-Type had been built.

For classic car expert Frank Wilke, the E-Type is among the top 10 classic cars of all time.

"The Jaguar was accepted throughout the car world and recognised as an icon. Not even the dubious technical reputation of contemporary English cars could take the shine off that," he says.

The E-Type never ended up as a bargain basement banger and many were cherished for years by their owners. Good cars do not come cheap today but they are nothing like as expensive to buy as second-hand Ferraris or Lamborghinis.

An early E-Type coupe will change hands for around €100,000 (RM495,000), according to Classic Analytics. A roadster commands a surcharge of some 25 per cent.

"That's cheap when you consider what an important car this is," says the expert.


Genesis shows off G90 exterior

                SEOUL: Genesis has officially revealed exterior images of the G90, a full model change version of the brand’s flagship luxury sedan.

This is the first full model change following the facelift model in 2018. The name "G90" follows the brand’s naming scheme, combining the letter "G" for Genesis and the number "90" indicating that it is the brand’s flagship.

The G90 is available in a choice of standard sedan or long-wheelbase sedan, with the long-wheelbase version featuring an extended wheelbase of 190mm giving more space for rear seats

The G90’s appearance is the most elegant interpretation of the brand’s design philosophy of Athletic Elegance yet, showcasing to customers that it is a flagship capable of providing a luxurious experience.

The model’s front consists of a new Crest Grille and sleek Two-Line lamps that resembles the brand’s emblem.

The Crest Grille takes the G90’s luxurious look to the next level with its Layered Architecture finish, which is comprised of two G-Matrix patterns layered on top of one another to create a three-dimensional effect.

The Two-Line headlamps, located on both sides of the grille, feature the thinnest Two-Line design lamps by Genesis.

By intercrossing the lens of the Daytime Running Lights (DRLs) with low beam powered by MLA (Micro Lens Array) technology, ensuring the headlamps' thin lines.

The G90 also has a Clamshell Hood, a single panel that combines the hood and fenders in order to eliminate panel gaps and create a sleek impression.

This sleekness is also embodied in the Guilloché pattern-applied emblem, which is nearly 80 percent thinner than seen on previous emblems.

The Parabolic Line and Daylight Opening (DLO) to the side further evoke the impression of a sedan

When viewed from the side, the Parabolic Line design, which starts from the hood and flows along the bottom of the window to the trunk in a seamless line.

And vehicle’s refined and voluminous body has been further enhanced with the Athletic Power Lines on the fenders around the wheels.

The DLOs that surround the first- and second-row seat windows are designed to harmonize with its thick C-pillars.

This offers second-row passengers both an open atmosphere and privacy at the same time, ultimately coming together to complete the model's image as a best-in-class luxury sedan.

The Two-Line rear combination lamps – key elements of the Genesis design language – are elongated along the trunk, with Genesis’ lettering emblem placed concisely between them.

To draw focus to the iconic Genesis design elements on the upper rear part of the vehicle, functional elements, such as the license plate, various sensors, and the reverse lights, have been placed towards the bottom to ensure that the rear offers a clean and luxurious look.

The G90 long-wheelbase model features more space for the second-row door and C-pillar area thanks to its expanded wheelbase. This allows for more spacious rear seats. It also offers a 20-inch wheel design exclusive for this model.

Additionally, the Parabolic Line formed by the DLOs that surround the windows and the B-pillar are finished in chrome, allowing the long-wheelbase model’s side profile to make even more of an impression.

The model also has exclusive front and rear bumper designs that feature chrome decorations on its rims for enhanced elegance.

With the G90, Genesis plans to expand its presence in the luxury sedan market not only in South Korea, but across the globe.

Detailed specifications of G90 will be revealed at the time of global launch in South Korea.


Smartphone integration beats carmakers' infotainment, German tester finds

                BERLIN: A report in the magazine Test, published by German's Stiftung Warentest consumer organisation, suggests linking your smartphone to the dashboard with a smartphone integration app offers a much cheaper and more flexible approach than the carmakers' infotainment systems.

It advises new-car buyers to demand that Apple CarPlay, Android Auto or MirrorLink be fitted to vehicles at the factory, and the proprietary systems of the carmakers be left out.

Price is a key factor. Whereas the "Command Online" multimedia system in a little Mercedes-Benz A Class costs more than 3,600 euros, ticking the box to connect the car’s display and speakers with CarPlay or Android Auto would only cost 357 euros. On top of that, you get to keep all the benefits if you destroy or sell the car.

Unlike a manufacturer's system, your smartphone and its navigation or music apps stay with you and can be used in a rental car too, or in your next car - as long as it also supports the technology.

The phone-based software is also kept up to date more regularly, because apps and smartphones have more rapid release cycles than proprietary in-car entertainment systems do, the tester notes. Drivers can link mobile devices to their car using cables, such as through a USB port, or wirelessly.

The only prerequisite is that your new car has a screen and that its maker offers CarPlay, Android Auto or MirrorLink as an accessory.

Android Auto requires you to have a mobile device with Android 5.0 at minimum, MirrorLink is offered for some Samsung, HTC, LG or Sony phones and CarPlay works with the Apple iPhone 5 or later.

According to Test magazine, Mirrorlink couldn’t quite keep up with the other two programs, largely because it can only be linked with a few types of smartphone.

In any case, the added capabilities don't bring along any danger of driver distraction: a smartphone’s display remains locked when the programs are in use.


BFGoodrich launches g-Force Phenom T/A ultra-high-performance tyre

                KUALA LUMPUR: The new BFGoodrich g-Force Phenom T/A on-road, ultra-high-performance tyre is billed as taking vehicle performance to the next level, in both wet and dry conditions.

Now available at BFGoodrich’s authorised dealers, the BFGoodrich g-Force Phenom T/A tyre comes in 25 sizes in the 16 to 20-inch range.

Recommended retail prices of the new tyre are from RM500 to RM1,300.

The g-Force Phenom T/A tyre is said to ensure exhilarating driving with uncompromised handling capabilities for launching off the line, tight cornering, and hard braking.

Prichapakorn Dangrojana, managing director of Michelin Malaysia, Singapore and Brunei, said, "The BFGoodrich g-Force Phenom T/A tyre is designed to maximize vehicle potential with confidence and comfort, at a reasonable price. Bringing unparalleled performance at a phenomenal value, this newly launched tyre is sure to attract new consumers to the brand, and lure them into performance driving.”

BFGoodrich says key advantages of the g-Force Phenom T/A tyre include uncompromised handling performance plus impressive traction, thanks to the Performance Racing Core construction that maintains an optimal footprint shape during cornering at high speeds.

The tyre also promises exceptional wet performance with better road contact in dry zones and less road contact to evacuate more water in wet zones, thanks to the Ulti-Grip technology, as well as maximum handling and shorter braking distances, thanks to the Wide Circumferential Rain Grooves that help evacuate water quickly.

The tyre also features Larger Solid Shoulder Blocks, inspired by decades of racing knowledge, that delivers confidence on every turn, as well as comfort in the cockpit area with Lateral Groove Damper that helps reduce road noise.

There is a six-year tyre warranty for BFGoodrich passenger car and light truck tyres against defects in design, workmanship and materials, used in normal service and in accordance with the maintenance recommendations and safety warnings of the company.


Renault's 4L takes to the air on 60th anniversary

                PARIS: Renault is set to showcase the AIR4, an original show car largely inspired by the French automaker's famous 4L.

This latest iteration takes the form of a futuristic flying vehicle with four large propellers.

For this project, Renault is collaborating with TheArsenale, a marketplace specialising in the future of mobility.

It was imagined, designed, developed and assembled entirely in France, at the heart of Europe's leading technology park in Sophia Antipolis, in the Alpes-Maritimes region surrounding Nice.

The vehicle, entirely made of carbon fibre, keeps the same lines and proportions as the original 4L. It flies thanks to four double propellers, with the chassis placed in the centre of the frame.

The vehicle is powered by lithium polymer batteries. It can reach a maximum horizontal speed of 94kph and fly up to 700m high.

The show car will have its world premiere here, at the Atelier Renault, from Nov 29 to the end of 2021, before heading to the United States - to Miami and then to New York - before later stopping off in Macau.

The Renault 4 will soon be revived in the form of an electric crossover expected on the market by 2025. It will take on some of the features of the original R4, and will be based on the same technical platform as the upcoming electric Renault 5.

The Renault 4L celebrates its 60th anniversary in 2021. The legendary car sold more than 8 million units in over 100 countries during its 30-year life.


Lexus greenlights 7-seat RX

                TOKYO: Lexus will show off a long-wheelbase RX that can seat seven people at the 2017 Los Angeles Auto Show.

The all-new RX L will feature three rows of seating, and will be available with petrol (RX 350L) and hybrid powertrains (RX 450hL).

Lexus said in a brief statement, accompanied by a teaser photo, that the RX will retain its stylish figure while also providing more flexibility for passengers.

The current fourth generation standard RX has been available in Malaysia since November 2015. It is offered in six variants, priced on-the-road without insurance from RM388,800 to RM520,200.  A hybrid forms the top of the line and its Nickel-Metal Hydride battery gets an eight-year warranty, regardless of mileage. All variants in Malaysia are backed by a three-year warranty or 100,000km (whichever comes first).


Malaysia's first autonomous vehicle testing route okayed

A general view of Cyberjaya.
CYBERJAYA: Futurise Sdn Bhd (Futurise) — a wholly-owned subsidiary of Cyberview Sdn Bhd — has announced that Malaysia’s first self-driving vehicle testing route has been approved.

The seven kilometre-long Cyberjaya Malaysia autonomous Vehicle Testing Route was jointly developed by Futurise and the Ministry of Transport under the National Regulatory Sandbox (NRS) initiative for the development of autonomous vehicles or self-driving vehicles.

In a statement last week, Futurise said eMoovit Technology Sdn Bhd would be the first company to use the route.

Formed in 2016, eMoovit is a local startup company specialising in driverless vehicle software for urban routes.

The software can be used in different applications, such as first/last-mile transportation, logistics and utility solutions.

Meanwhile, those who wish to use the testing route may submit their application to Futurise, which acts as the secretariat that endorses the application together with the autonomous vehicle testing evaluation committee, chaired by the ministry.

Committee members include the Sepang Municipal Council, Road Transport Department Malaysia, Land Public Transport Agency, Malaysian Institute of Road Safety Research, Malaysia automotive Robotics and IoT Institute, and Universiti Teknologi Malaysia’s automotive Development Centre.


Ford brain research attempts to figure out quickly when drivers switch off at wheel

                COLOGNE: Ford is working with neuroscientists to develop a faster and more effective way to detect when drivers are tired, distracted or not concentrating

Driver fatigue may be a contributing factor in up to 25 per cent of fatal and serious road incidents.

A survey showed that 40 per cent of drivers in Europe do not follow the recommended practice of taking a break every two hours on long journeys.

“The brain processes huge amounts of information when we are driving, but that may change as driver assistance technologies do some of the driving for us," said Stefan Wolter, research engineer, Research and Advanced Engineering, Ford of Europe.

"Drivers also get tired and their minds can wander. Identifying more quickly when this happens could be of critical importance.”

Working with neuroscientists, Ford is hoping that by identifying the brain responses that reveal lapses in concentration, it may then be possible to match the scans to their physical manifestations – such as changes in heart rate or breathing.

Should a loss in concentration become apparent, for example if a change in heartbeat variability was detected via wearable technology, the vehicle could then alert the driver.

As driver assistance technologies offer increasing levels of support to those behind the wheel, it remains crucial drivers stay alert and do not become overly reliant on assistance technologies.

Ford is conducting this research on mapping brain patterns to driver’s reactions with Uniklinik RWTH Aachen, in Germany.

The testing involves participants completing a driving simulation while their brain activity is scanned by an MRI machine. A specially positioned mirror enables the participants to see the simulation on the screen.

The scenario, designed using gaming technology, involves a three-lane motorway at night where a vehicle in the middle lane brakes suddenly and the participant has to take over and move the car to the left or right, using a handheld device. The participants are also prompted by engine sounds to indicate which lane it is safe to move to.

The MRI machine scans the brain before and during these actions, while the researchers measure how quickly the participant reacts and if they make the right decision, and monitor changes to heart rate, breathing rate and other physiological measures.

“We believe that by capturing this data we could one day be able to generate unique physiological driver fingerprints so that drivers of the vehicles of the future can be prepared to react and to intervene immediately in case it is required,” said Professor Klaus Mathiak M.D. Ph.D., head of Psychoneurobiology and lead consultant for Psychosomatic Medicine, Uniklinik RWTH Aachen.

For more than a decade, a coffee cup symbol displayed in the dashboard cluster has highlighted to Ford drivers that they may be showing signs of fatigue and should take a break.

Now, this unique research project could take driver monitoring an important step further and help ensure a smooth transition to driving vehicles with advanced driver assistance features.


No longer too posh for pink, Bentley selling pastel-painted dropheads

                LONDON/BEVERLEY HILLS: Time was when luxury car manufacturer Bentley would have turned down a customer request for a pale pink-painted model.

Since then, US model Paris Hilton has been seen at the wheel of a Barbie pink Bentley she had sprayed to suit her unusual taste and now the noble brand has opted for visual overkill of its own.

Bentley has launched pastel-coloured limited editions of three Continental GTC Speed convertible models in hues and finishes that "recall the golden age of Hollywood."

It seems the maker hopes to mine a glam tradition in the upmarket district of Los Angeles that goes back nearly 100 years, as Bentley explains in a gushing press release.

"1920's residents such as (Ed: film stars) Mary Pickford, Douglas Fairbanks, Will Rogers and Rudolph Valentino gave Beverley Hills a cachet that it has never lost, and the colours of that Art Deco era have been brilliantly evoked in the Jetstream Blue, Sage Green and Hollywood Blush Pink finishes of the three Mulliner Bentleys".

The dropheads come as standard with a W12 engine delivering 650hp, a 0-100-kph sprint time of 3.6 seconds and a top speed of 335 km/h.

The models are turned out by Bentley's Mulliner in-house customising outfit and the company said demand for exotic paint finish orders had more than doubled since 2020.


Digital sales helping auto industry ride through pandemic, says Transport Ministry

                PETALING JAYA: Sales of cars have not been affected by the Covid-19 pandemic, says Transport Minister Datuk Seri Dr Wee Ka Siong.

He said this was because industry players had an existing online presence, which enabled them to continue serving the public during the movement control order.

Referring to the online vehicle ownership transfer system, he said the willingness of industry players under the Federation of Motor and Credit Companies Associations of Malaysia (FMCCAM) to embrace technology was laudable.

"Because they were bold to embrace technology and offer online services, the automobile industry can still serve the public during the MCO.

"Their efforts to go online also paid off handsomely as online vehicle ownership transfers account for an average of RM40mil each year," he said in his speech at FMCCAM's virtual 43rd annual general meeting on Saturday (June 12).

He said it was "good news" as car sales were not affected by the pandemic except for the initial lockdown in March and April last year.

Dr Wee said the government would continue to listen to the business community for their feedback on issues affecting them, as both the government and the private sectors are facing unprecedented challenges due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

Under the online vehicle ownership transfer systems, the Temporary Ownership Transfer System and its eSerahan Tukar Milik (eSTM) extension allow vehicle owners to conduct ownership transfers without visiting the Road Transport Department (JPJ) offices.

Using a MyKad and thumbprint verification of both parties, ownership of vehicles can be transferred to used car dealers temporarily for a period of six months.

If the vehicles are unsold within that time, ownership automatically becomes permanent for used car dealers.

FMCCAM president Datuk Khor Chong Boon said despite most business sectors being affected, car sales had grown 20% as 347,000 online ownership transfers took place between January and May this year.

"Last year, we achieved our target and saw 601, 000 ownership transfers. This would not have happened without the systems as these cases would have required 1.2 million trips and manpower if done offline," he said.

The online systems, added Khor, also made JPJ's work easier by digitally processing the collection of RM40mil in processing fees.

He called on the government to further simplify the vehicle ownership transfer process by allowing the system partners to print out the paper version of the vehicle ownership certificate, which now can only be printed at JPJ offices.

"As for the road tax document, all our members are ready to invest and set up kiosks at all state associations and key auto cities to make things easier, without passing the burden to the buyers.

"We also call on the government to allow us to conduct vehicle inspection by setting up a working committee together and include our participation while drafting relevant policies," he added.


GoCar and EV Connection join forces to enhance EV charging convenience

                PETALING JAYA: GoCar Malaysia, a leading on-demand mobility-as-a-service platform and EV Connection, a one-stop electric vehicle (EV) charging service provider, have entered into a partnership to expand accessibility to EV charging stations in the country.

The collaboration will enable the integration of GoCar’s mobile app with EV Connection’s JomCharge mobile platform to increase connectivity to more EV charging stations and fast DC chargers for GoCar users and the general public.

Following the first phase of integration, which is expected to be completed by the third quarter of the year, GoCar users and the general public will be able to view charger locations, charger availability and charger types within EV Connection’s network via the GoCar app.

Future plans to scale up include enhancement of services such as the capability to pre-book an EV charger, schedule a recharge, make payments and track the vehicle charging progress through the GoCar app.

EV Connection currently has one of the largest DC charger networks in the country, located along the North-South Expressway.

The company is targeting an expansion to 100 charging stations by the end of the year, featuring universal DC chargers that can accommodate all types of EV makes and models.

GoCar Malaysia CEO Wong Hoe Mun said the strategic partnership with EV Connection is in line with GoCar’s commitment to bring the EV experience into mainstream Malaysia through GoEV.

“Through this integration, we believe that our users can better plan their trips and have real-time updates on EV charging locations on the fly.

“This will ultimately reduce range anxiety and increase comfort and convenience for GoCar and other EV users,” said Wong.

Having diversified from a car sharing platform to offering a range of mobility solutions, GoCar has been focused on expanding access to EV solutions through EV car sharing, EV subscription and EV charging.

The company recently added the Hyundai Kona to its GoEV line-up and aims to increase its fleet to more than 100 EVs by the end of the year.

 Kona EV.

Since the launch of GoEV in December last year, more than 1,000 GoEV users have clocked an excess of 500,000km.

For more than 90% of users, it was the first time they had ever experienced driving an EV.

EV Connection technical director Dr Che Hang Seng said this collaboration was in line with Jomcharge’s mission to support the electric mobility transition in the region.

“Together with GoCar, we hope to relieve the anxiety and reduce EV-adoption barrier for the mass market,” said Dr Che.

A pioneer in EV charging solutions, EV Connection is the only EV service provider with an integrated portfolio of hardware, installation, operation, maintenance, cloud services and support.

Apart from being a TÜV SÜD certified EV charger installer, the company is an authorised distributor for brands like ABB and Hager and is registered with the Energy Commission, Construction Industry Development Board, Tenaga National Bhd and MyHijau.

To sign-up for a GoCar membership and experience the quiet, clean yet powerful drive of an EV, download the GoCar mobile app here.

For more information about GoCar Malaysia, visit https://hi.gocar.my or follow the GoCar Malaysia Facebook, Instagram, https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCz6-zOVUt8YfnCzKKEvMbtw and Twitter channels.


Ford Mustang muscling its way through

                From the land that brought the phrase “shock and awe” and other 10-second sound bites into the global lexicon, it is any wonder that the Ford Motor Company’s first Mustang being exported on a global scale – in 50 years – was dubbed by the US press as “a Mustang for all markets”.

While the love of overstatement is very much an American marketing thing, there is something to be said about seeing an iconic muscle car stretching its legs and venturing into a big bad world keen on fuel economy and nimble handling, and where big engines are levied with heavy taxes.

And, yet, there is something to be said about the allure of sticking the biggest engine you can find into the smallest, lightest 2-door-fits-four-or-more occupant chassis you can muster and pointing this rear-wheel drive vehicular Frankenstein in the direction of the straightest, longest stretch of tarmac.

For those brief moments, thoughts like gas mileage and excruciatingly expensive road tax fly out the window in a blast of screeching tyres, a burst of acceleration and the loud roar of a V8 on full octane overdrive. For many, this is automotive Nirvana.

It is an undisputed fact that the US is the birthplace of the muscle car.

Yet, there are differing schools of thought as to what the first muscle car was.

Some say it was the 1949 Oldsmobile Rocket 88.

Others say that the true golden age of the muscle car began with the introduction of the Pontiac GTO in 1964.

For many more – like this writer – the birth of the muscle car came as a result of the Ford Mustang.

Unveiled in the early 60s, the Mustang remains the only “pony car” – a breed of sports car coupes with long hoods and short rear decks – that remains in uninterrupted production.

While others have faded and then been revived, in a space of more than 50 years we have seen six generations of Mustangs.

When we say “we”, of course, we mean North Americans, mostly.

Ford did sell some to the Germans under the “T5” name (“Mustang” was owned by German firm Krupp and used for a line of trucks) and 250 lucky Australians were able to buy modified right-hand-drive Mustangs under a licensing deal.

All in all, Ford only sold 161,000 Mustangs overseas in five decades, or about 3,220 cars per year.

To show you how small a figure that is, by comparison, Perodua sold 17,584 cars in April this year alone.

That is changing with the imminent arrival of Ford’s first true global Mustang.

Such is its optimism for its potential success that it has taken onboard around 3,000 employees (working on two shifts) to assemble the car for all markets and hired more staff at ports whose roles include checking custom forms and making sure the right language manuals are in the glove box.

For Malaysia, the new Mustang is expected to hit local shores next year with an indicative price range of more than RM350,000 for the 2.3L EcoBoost variant and up to RM600,000 for the top of the range for the 5.0L V8 big daddy.

The latter is the one you want if you want to fulfil your Bullitt fantasies. This is also the variant that will make your banker and the Road Transport Department (JPJ) very, very happy.

Based on a few handy online calculators, that 5.0L pony car could be slapped with an annual road tax of RM11,130, while a RM600,000 price tag and a seven year loan (at 3.2% per annum) should set you back around RM6,428.57 per month.

It is okay to faint.

This writer did after seeing those numbers.

Muscle cars, it would seem, are products of their North American environs, where petrol is relatively cheap, the straight roads beg for whopping straight line speed and JPJ is not knocking on your door and asking for a big wad of cash for your big-engined car every year.

And, yet, that statement is not entirely true.

There was a British muscle car, Jensen Motor’s gorgeous Interceptor. Essentially an American V8 engine mated with an Italian-designed body, the Interceptor was a head-turner.

However, the car was doomed when Jensen Motors went into receivership in the mid-70s.

While production officially ceased in 1976, there have been several attempts to revive the car in the 1980s and 1990s, all of which failed.

Today, a new firm, Jensen International Automobile, rebuilds original Interceptors with modern bits and bobs if you have a yen for an automotive classic.

However, it will cost you £180,000 (RM1.061mil) to own one.

Plus, its V8 Chrysler engine will mean that your annual road tax bill will set you back around RM19,230. Let us not go into how thirsty a V8 engine can get, lest we keel over from shock.

A more viable option, and located in a land very much like the US where there are plenty of straight roads and wide open blue skies, is Holden’s Monaro.

Three generations were built between 1968 and 1977, as well as 2001 and 2006, and they had all the right DNA.

Mostly powered by V8s (there were a few V6s and straight-sixes), these rear-wheel driven beauties were meant for the open road.

Loud, raucous but filled with creature comforts so that it can be used as an around town runabout.

They were also – like the early American muscle cars – relatively affordable, at around A$11,000 (RM31,100) when they were first introduced in the 1960s to about A$60,000 (RM169,700) for the third generation ones in 2006.

A used third generation Monaro could fetch around the A$35,000 (RM99,000) mark.

We say relative because a Nissan Sunny in the early 2000s would set you back around A$20,000 (RM56,600).

Then again, a Sunny does not exactly come with a roaring V8 under the bonnet. Neither does it look like it chews up tarmac for fun - the Monaro did.

Of course, the ultimate Australian muscle car had to be a Ford, the Falcon Cobra to be exact.

Fitted with either a 5.8L or 4.9L V8 – depending on the production run that your vehicle came from – only 400 of these beauties were ever built.

They are very rare now but, just like Frank Bullitt’s Mustang, they are film star famous. A heavily modified Falcon Cobra – dubbed the V8 Interceptor “Pursuit Special” was Max Rockatansky’s black chariot of retribution.

Film buffs will know officer Rockatansky as “Mad Max”.

So, on the minus side, muscle cars are expensive to buy (if you are Malaysian), expensive to run and probably expensive to maintain.

On the plus side, though, when you are behind the wheel and the wide open road lies before you, there is nothing quite like it in the world.


New Mercedes cars comply with Euro 6d-TEMP standard

                STUTTGART:  Significantly reduced NOx emissions is a characteristic feature of Mercedes-Benz vehicles which are certified according to the Euro 6d-TEMP standard.

All Mercedes-Benz passenger cars that can be ordered in the new car business now meet this requirement.

Furthermore, Mercedes-Benz currently has a whole series of vehicles on the market that already comply with the even stricter Euro 6d standard. This will gradually become mandatory as of Jan 1, 2020.

The decision made at the start of the decade to develop an entirely new diesel engine generation is paying dividends.

The innovative technologies implemented in the process ensure low NOx emissions. With the changeover to the new engine generation, all new Mercedes-Benz passenger cars available to order now comply with the Euro 6d- TEMP or Euro 6d standards.

The limit values for NOx in emission tests - for Euro 6d these are also at 80 milligrammes per kilometre also during RDE (Real Driving Emissions) tests - are so-called "not to exceed" limit values that must be complied with during each valid RDE test.

This means that a vehicle may also not exceed the limit under the worst conceivable combinations of RDE conditions – for example, with a heavy load, in hilly topography, and in unfavourable temperature and traffic conditions.

The limit applies not only to new vehicles, but also to vehicles with more than 100,000 kilometres. Results of real-world tests on the road often stay significantly below the limit of 80 milligrammes per kilometre, which is confirmed by independent measurements.


First drive of Rolls-Royce Wraith

The Rolls-Royce Wraith is the “ultimate gentleman’s gran turismo” as proclaimed by Rolls-Royce Motor Cars, chief operating officer, Torsten Müller-Ötvös.

And after having the opportunity of driving the Wraith from Petaling Jaya to Putrajaya, I can only agree with the sentiment.

When it comes to the Rolls-Royce, my opinion of it had been that it is the ultimate car to be chauffeured in.

And that is still true if you’re sitting in a Phantom or Ghost Series II (I sat in the latter on the way back from Putrajaya and it is an exquisite experience in-and-of itself).

Where the Wraith is concerned however, one must take the opportunity to get behind the wheel and driving it will only make the heart grow fonder.

You have to understand that this is the most powerful Rolls-Royce in existence - under the hood is a 6.6-litre, twin-turbo V12 engine which produces 624hp at 5,600 rpm and a maximum torque of 800Nm at 1,500-5,500 rpm.

Its the type of figures that can rival Italian and German supercars.

Yet it looks, sounds and behaves nothing like a sports car although its performance is just as breathtaking.

To look at the Wraith from the front with the classic grille and Spirit of Ecstasy figurine on top, you wouldn’t be able to tell the difference between the Phantom or the Ghost.

It’s only when you look at it from the sides and rear is where the Wraith distinguishes itself from the rest.

It has the swept line of a fastback - a body style where the roof slopes down to the rear - and this gives it all the power, mystery and elegance of the Wraith as well as its grand touring credentials.

The frameless two-door Wraith opens coach-style bearing one of many features emblematic of the pinnacle of luxury and exclusivity and all it takes is a touch of a button to shut the doors close.

The interior design is striking without screaming for attention and blends modernity and antique features like the engine start/stop button and the polished push/pull knobs to open and shut the air-conditioning vents.

The craftsmanship is nothing short of exquisite.

The wood panelling on the doors of the Wraith for example, is the first to feature a new wood treatment known as Canadel Panelling, a beautiful open grain wood with a grain orientation angled at 55° and bookmatched throughout to appear seamless and dynamic.

The cabin inside is naturally comfortable and supremely sound-proofed to give its occupants a private and serene surrounding, leaving out all the hustle-and-bustle of city life.

I was simply astonished at how silent the Wraith is.

There is no hint that you’re driving a V12 turbo engine until you floor the accelerator.

Even then, there is no evidence of turbo-lag since maximum torque already kicks-in at 1,500rpm and the exhaust note lets out a low-volume and refined growl.

There is nothing brash about the Wraith as the power delivery is buttery smooth and yet, it gives you a rush just like a sports car does when you open the throttle.

The ride is stable and graceful at low and high speeds, and the brakes require very little coaxing for it to catch.

Ironically, I felt completely detached from the car because there is no feedback through the steering wheel and even as a passenger you don’t feel like you are travelling in an automobile.

Rolls-Royce describes this as the ‘magic carpet ride’ and it is magical.

When I was driving the car and looking straight down the Spirit of Ecstasy figurine, I felt like I was in a bespoke carriage being pulled by an invisible force which I simply steered and spurred.

And speaking of bespoke, Rolls-Royce has 44,000 body colour options to choose from and then some (if you can’t find a colour you like, you can bring them a sample for them to emulate).

You get an enticing bespoke option for the interior roof of the Wraith.

Sure, you can have the option of a sunroof but you can also recreate a starry, starry night or your favourite constellation through its Starlight Headliner which uses 1,340 individual fibre optic lights hand-woven into the roof-lining by the Rolls-Royce leather shop.

The Wraith represents all that is new and exciting for Rolls-Royce and the company did it by adhering to the wisdom of its co-founder, Sir Henry Royce, who said, “When it does not exist, design it.”


New Ford Ranger unveiled in Bangkok

BANGKOK: Ford unveiled its new Ranger here today, and the model is expected to arrive in Malaysia late this year.

Ford says the latest Ranger sets a new benchmark in the pickup truck segment with a blend of robust capability, craftsmanship and advanced technology.

The changes begin with an updated exterior design. A bold, more modern look lends Ranger a powerful presence on the road.

A more muscular hood flows into a strong new trapezoidal grille, while imposing projector headlamps make the truck instantly recognizable, with a bold, technical look.

The Ford Ranger remains one of the most capable trucks in its class. With a class-leading ability to wade through water up to 800mm deep, and with 230mm of ground clearance, it is designed and engineered to handle the most extreme terrains with ease. Thanks to a 28-degree approach angle and 25-degree departure angle, drivers in the new Ranger can feel confident when taking on steep obstacles.

A robust electronically controlled transfer case allows drivers in 4x4 models to shift on the fly from 4x2 to 4x4 high with a knob on the center console. For low-speed torque or additional downhill braking, drivers can also engage low-range 4x4 gearing, while an electronic locking rear differential helps to improve traction in difficult conditions. These off-road strengths are matched by towing capability of up to 3,500 kg and exceptional payload capacity.

The Ranger achieves all this with a level of refinement not usually seen in the pickup truck segment. While the current Ranger already sets the standard for ride and handling, Ford engineers fine-tuned its suspension for additional comfort and even better handling.

The driving experience is further enhanced by an electric power-assisted steering (EPAS) system, which provides precise steering with a natural and confident feel. With EPAS, steering is light and manageable for low-speed maneuvering, such as parking, and precise at higher speeds – with assistance varying as necessary based on speed, steering wheel angle, cornering forces and acceleration or deceleration. By eliminating the power steering pump used in a traditional power-steering system, EPAS also results in a quieter vehicle and improves fuel efficiency by about three percent.

Engineers also fitted the new Ranger with advanced sound-deadening materials and improved insulation for one of the quietest and most comfortable cabin interiors in its class.

For maximum power and torque for heavy-duty towing, Ford is offering the latest generation of its proven 3.2-liter Duratorq five-cylinder TDCi diesel engine. Upgrades including an updated exhaust gas recirculation system help to improve fuel efficiency by up to 18 percent, while still putting out 147 kW of power and 470 Nm of torque.

Equipped with the latest generation of Ford’s 2.2-liter Duratorq four-cylinder TDCi diesel engine, the Ranger delivers significantly improved fuel efficiency and refinement while also providing the power Ranger customers demand. Depending on the market, Ford will offer a standard 2.2-litre engine, which generates an improved 118 kW of power and 385 Nm of torque, or a high-efficiency (96 kW) variant for up to 22 percent improvement in fuel economy.

The new Ranger is also available with Ford’s 2.5-liter Duratec petrol engine, providing 122 kW of power and 225 Nm of torque#.

Maximising the efficiency of its engines, the Ranger is available with Automatic Start/Stop Technology, improving fuel economy by up to 3.5 percent. On the move, an available longer final drive ratio boosts fuel economy at highway speeds.

A host of technology is available on the Ranger to help drivers stay connected and in control.

SYNC 2, the latest generation of Ford’s in-car connectivity system, gives drivers smarter and safer ways to stay connected. Using natural voice commands, like “temperature 20 degrees”, “play AC/DC” or “I’m hungry”, the driver can control the car’s climate controls, entertainment system and navigation system more easily than ever before. An eight-inch touchscreen places more controls at the driver’s fingertips, with colour-coded corners for easy menu navigation.

For extra convenience, the new Ranger features a 240-volt power socket that can be used to power a laptop computer anywhere, from a work site to a family road trip.

There is also an array of driver assist technologies such as Lane Keeping Alert + Lane Keeping Aid, a radar-based Adaptive Cruise Control and Front and Rear Park Assist.

Other tech on board include Tyre Pressure Monitoring System, Driver Impairment Monitor, Hill Launch Assist, Hill Descent Control, Adaptive Load Control, Emergency Brake Assistance, and Electronic Stability Program with rollover mitigation and trailer sway control.

Starting later this year, the truck will start selling in more than 180 markets worldwide.

Ford will make the new Ranger at its AutoAlliance Thailand facility in Rayong, Thailand by mid-2015 for distribution throughout Asia Pacific, its Silverton Assembly Plant in Pretoria, South Africa for distribution in Africa and Europe, and its Pacheco Stamping and Assembly Plant in Argentina for distribution in Latin America.


US safety agency says ‘did not assess’ Tesla Autopilot effectiveness

An advertisement promoting Tesla Autopilot at a showroom of Tesla in Zurich, Switzerland. — Reuters
WASHINGTON: A US traffic safety regulator on Wednesday contradicted Tesla Inc’s claim that the agency had found that its Autopilot technology significantly reduced crashes, saying that regulators ”did not assess” the system’s effectiveness in a 2017 report.

Autopilot, a form of advanced cruise control, handles some driving tasks and warns those behind the wheel they are always responsible for the vehicle’s safe operation, Tesla has said.

The US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, which issued the statement, and National Transportation Safety Board are investigating a fatal crash in March in which the driver was using Autopilot.

Following that fatality, Tesla pointed to a 2017 NHTSA report on a May 2016 fatality involving a driver using Autopilot. The report said crash rates fell by 40 percent after installation of Autopilot’s Autosteer function, and noted that this number was derived from Tesla airbag deployment data.

The agency said on Wednesday its crash rate comparison ”did not evaluate whether Autosteer was engaged” and ”did not assess the effectiveness of this technology.” The agency described the Autopilot analysis in the 2017 report as a ”cursory comparison” of airbag deployment rates before and after installation of the feature to determine whether models with Autosteer had higher crash rates. Such a finding ”could have indicated that further investigation was necessary,” the agency said.

Tesla declined to comment.

In March, Tesla said that over a year ago, the US government found that its first iteration of Autopilot reduced crash rates by as much as 40 percent. ”Internal data confirms that recent updates to Autopilot have improved system reliability,” it added.

On Jan. 19, 2017, Musk tweeted: ”The data show that the Tesla vehicles crash rate dropped by almost 40 percent after Autosteer installation.” Autosteer, a system that automatically keeps the vehicle in the center of a lane, is part of the Autopilot technology package. The 2017 NHTSA probe found no evidence of a defect.

Investigations into the death of Walter Huang, the driver in the March 23 Tesla car crash, are ongoing. The NTSB confirmed last month it had two other pending investigations of incidents involving Tesla vehicles, including an August 2017 Tesla battery fire in Lake Forest, California, after an owner lost control and ran the vehicle into his garage.


Skoda UK promotes Laura in-car digital assistant

                LONDON: Skoda's in-car digital assistant, named Laura, is available on the new UK model range from the Czech auto marque.

The digital assistant Laura can carry out a number of different functions at the driver’s request.

"With the ability to speak six languages and a permanent online connectivity, she is a valuable driver aid for owners,” says a spokesperson at Skoda UK.

Meanwhile, new research by Skoda UK shows almost a third of UK motorists have confessed to giving their car a name, with some Brits admitting to naming it after a family member or loved one.

In a survey of 2,000 drivers, 32% revealed they had named at least one vehicle they had owned, with a quarter of those admitting to naming three or more vehicles during their lifetime.

Skoda’s research further acknowledged the individual relationship we have with our cars, with over 450 unique names given by motorists.

Some of the more common ones that surfaced multiple times included Betty, Freddie, Daisy and Rosie. Beyoncé, Harrison Ford and Elvis Presley were the celebrity names listed while Bubbles, Beast, The Brussel Sprout, Zorro and Ketchup were examples of the more amusing choices from drivers.

Skoda's research also found that Brits had an incredibly strong affection for their cars, with 10% of motorists admitting they loved their car more than their spouse or partner, and one in seven claiming that their love for their car superseded that of their parents and/or siblings.


Mazda MX-5 with a monstrous 525bhp

                PALISADE (Colorado): Meet the 525bhp Mazda MX-5 Miata roadster, courtesy of American tuner Flyin' Miata.

The specialist Miata tuner is based in Palisade, Colorado and has beefed up the popular Japanese convertible with serious firepower from Chevrolet 6.2-litre V8 engines. The car looks almost completely stock from the outside and interior, but Flyin' Miata says it has been completely re-engineered.

All parts used in the conversion are new, and most of the original systems have been retained.

However, Flyin' Miata has disabled traction control, and also replaced the electric power steering with a hydraulically assisted unit with a variable ratio. After conversion, the Miata is 113kg heavier.

The balance of the converted Miata is still close to its front/rear stock weight bias of 52:48, as after conversion, it has a weight bias of 53:47.

There are three Chevrolet LS3 crate V8 engine choices, namely the standard 6.2-litre 430hp LS3 crate engine found in the recent Chevrolet Corvette and Camaro sports cars, and an LS3 E-Rod engine (better emissions compliance) or the monstrous LS376/525 engine with 525bhp and 663Nm of torque.

Also, the modified Miata gets a Tremec T56 Magnum 6-speed manual transmission, and an upgraded rear end with an LSD (limited-slip differential), a new driveshaft and new halfshafts.

READ MORE:
CarSifu reviews Mazda MX-5
5 highlights of Mazda MX-5
Mazda MX-5 is 2016 World Car of the Year
Mazda MX-5 hits millionth mark
One-millionth Mazda MX-5 set to go on 18-stop US tour

The price of the conversion starts from US$49,995 or RM202,621 (car not included).

An extra US$1,780 or RM7,214 will get you the monstrous LS376/525 engine with 525bhp.

For details, visit www.flyinmiata.com


Malaysian vehicle sales jump in March ahead of GST

                KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysian vehicle sales jumped to 67,314 units in March 2015, which was an increase of 33.6% from February ahead of the implementation of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) on April 1.

According to the Malaysian Automotive Association (MAA) on Friday, this was the second highest monthly sales since July 2013 where sales volume had then surged to 68,451 units.

“The surge was due to very attractive offers and incentives given by car companies to clear stocks prior to the implementation of the GST,” it said.

Of the 67,314 units sold in March, the MAA said 59,318 were passenger vehicles and the remaining 7,996 commercial vehicles.

Compared with a year ago, there was a 14.2% increase from the 58,924 units in March 2014.

For the January to March period, vehicle sales totalled 168,306 units, an increase of 5.2% from the 159,913 units in the previous corresponding period.

Production of vehicles in March increased to 60,085 units from 50,382 units a year ago.

On the outlook for April, the MAA said it expected sales to be lower compared to March when consumers were buying forward prior to the implementation of the GST.

“Moving forward with GST already being implemented, we expect the market to normalise,” said the MAA.


Nuro R1 driverless van delivery trials get under way

A Nuro R1 packed with groceries from Fry's.
SAN FRANCISCO: There's still considerable debate about how desirable the concept of a truly driverless car is, but not many of us will find much to object to in the idea of driverless delivery vehicles. These might get to our roads even before autonomous passenger vehicles, as serious testing of one such service gets under way in Scottsdale, Arizona.

The American supermarket company Kroger is partnering with technology startup Nuro to trial a driverless delivery service from a single Fry's Food Store in Scottsdale.

Kroger isn't the only company of this type looking into implementing this kind of technology — as the industry tries to lower the high cost of what are called "last-mile" deliveries to customers' homes, Walmart has also teamed up with an autonomous vehicle developer in Phoenix, Arizona.

 The first phase of the trial will begin with a fleet of modified Toyota Prius.

Traditional grocery retailers are particularly keen to develop the technology in the face of the new threat from Amazon. The online retail giant has rolled out a free Whole Foods delivery service for customers who subscribe to its Prim perks programme.

"Kroger wants to bring more customers the convenience of affordable grocery delivery," Kroger chief digital officer Yael Cosset said of the trial, confirming that the test was intended to gauge what the level of customer demand may be for such a service.

The first phase of the trial will begin this week, using a fleet of Toyota Prius models equipped with Nuro driverless technology. These vehicles have seats to accommodate people, who can override the autonomous system in case of an error or emergency.

A delivery from the Scottsdale Fry's store via one of the driverless Toyotas will cost US$5.95 (around RM25) with no minimum order, but it will only be available within the zip code of the store in question.

If all goes well, the trial will start using Nuro R1 driverless delivery vans with no seats from the autumn.


China's Chery files trademark complaint against Mercedes over green car brand

                BEIJING: Chinese automaker Chery Automobile Co Ltd has filed a complaint with the country's trademark regulator over Mercedes-Benz's use of the "EQ" name for a line of green-energy vehicles, throwing up a potential road block for the Daimler AG unit in the world's largest electric car market.

A Chery spokesman said today that the automaker had filed a complaint with the Trademark Office of the State Administration for Industry and Commerce, which it hopes will bar Mercedes from using the name in China. She said Chery has used the name "eQ" for its two-door battery electric car for two years.

 The Mercedes EQ Concept.

Mercedes showed off a concept car for its forthcoming line of electric vehicles last year, saying it would build its first EQ car in a German factory by the end of the decade. The automaker said last year it could make EQ in China but did not give a launch date. A Mercedes spokesman declined to immediately comment today.

A ruling in Chery's favour would be a blow to Mercedes in a key market for new-energy vehicles as more electric cars are sold in China than the rest of the world combined, thanks in part to government initiatives targeting air pollution.

"If it entered the Chinese market, it would impact our trademark rights," the Chery spokesman said.

"Mercedes Benz EQ and our (eQ) are extremely similar. Their product is also an electric car." China's central government aggressively promotes green cars to fight intense urban smog and is urging its domestic industry to leap forward in automotive technology.


Local production of GAC GS3 SUV to begin in April 2024

GAC Group VP and GAC International chairman Yu Jun (left) and Tan at the event.
PETALING JAYA: WTC Automotif (WTCA) Malaysia Sdn Bhd today announced plans to set up a RM60mil local assembly programme for China-based automotive brand Guangzhou Automobile Group (GAC) along with more than 70 showrooms over the coming years.

During a press conference at GAC Motor's future flagship showroom in Section 13 here, Warisan TC Holdings Bhd chief executive officer Tan Keng Meng said the showroom would be ready by the third quarter of this year.

The announcement was made during a handover ceremony today, which saw 25 units of the brand's GS3 sports utility vehicle (SUV) added to Mayflower Car Rental Sdn Bhd's existing fleet of 50 units.

WTCA is a fully owned subsidiary of Warisan TC Holdings - a member of the Tan Chong Group of companies.

Following the handover ceremony, Tan said WTCA's plans to locally assemble the SUV would see an annual output of about 10,000 units.

"The plant is currently in the planning stage where the model-specific toolings, jigs and such are being prepared and will probably take about a year to conduct," said Tan.

Tan said that the incoming SUV would feature GAC Motor's third-generation 1.5-litre direct-injected turbocharged engine producing 177hp and 270Nm of torque while mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission.

He touted that the SUV would feature "next-generation design cues" as well as a Level 2 advanced driver-assistance system but declined to provide details until closer to its official launch.

For the time being, Tan said that the necessary equipment is currently being brought in from GAC Motor and production is expected to commence around April next year.

"We intend to go as high as possible on the local content - at least above the 50% mark, while also remaining as cost-competitive as possible," said Tan.

"As long as local content is above the 40% mark, we will be able to export the vehicle within Asean, so this is something we are seriously looking at," he added.

With the upcoming assembly plant, Tan said it will be able to produce both left and right-hand drive units.

"Primarily, we are looking at Malaysia first with other countries to come later - subject to discussion with GAC of course," he said.

Tan added the company is also looking to expand its CKD offerings to include more SUVs, sedans, multi-purpose vehicles and electric vehicles.

"Our aim is to hit high volume sales and in order for us to do this, we need a network that will help us achieve it," Tan said.

Currently, there are four GAC outlets located nationwide, including the headquarters in Petaling Jaya as well as Berkeley Garden (Klang) and Bukit Indah (Johor Baru) with another five outlets to open by year-end. — JAY WONG


Transport Ministry has no plans to punish driving schools for ex-students' traffic offences

                PETALING JAYA: There are no plans to revoke or cancel the permits of driving schools and their instructors whose former students are involved in traffic accidents, says Transport Minister Datuk Seri Dr Wee Ka Siong.

"The Transport Ministry wishes to stress that (any) action to cancel the permits of driving schools and revoke the certificates of the instructors, where many former (students) are involved in road accidents, is a personal view of the Road Transport Department (JPJ) director-general and not a policy of the ministry at the moment," he said in a Facebook post today.

It was reported earlier this week that JPJ director-general Datuk Zailani Hashim said a system would be introduced alongside the eTesting pilot project to be implemented in April to help identify driving schools whose former students were involved in traffic violations.

Zailani said a code would be embedded on the driving licence which would identify the institute from which the traffic offenders graduated.

Dr Wee noted that any policy direction or proposal towards improvement must undergo holistic and scientific studies by the ministry.

He added such studies take into account various aspects such as feasibility and the ability to achieve the objectives of a proposal.

"The ministry does not want to point fingers arbitrarily at any parties and find fault based solely on unfounded presumptions and hypotheses," Dr Wee said.

He added that detailed studies on the matter would also require engagement with stakeholders to get their feedback and proposals for improvement.

At present, he said the ministry and agencies under its purview would continue with advocacy and enforcement activities to create safety awareness amongst road users.


VW gives early glimpse at ID Life, first of many cheap electric cars

                BERLIN: Volkswagen might be forging ahead with its switch to electric mobility, but the auto giant's electric vehicles have so far largely remained exclusive to those with extra cash to spend compared to the price of a diesel or petrol.

But the company is now sharing details on its plans for a more affordable line of electric cars, starting with the ID Life.

Volkswagen has announced that it wants this car, a concept of which has been unveiled, to become the new entry-level EV for its electric fleet by the middle of the decade.

Its home market starting price is set to be comparatively low at around €20,000 (RM97,000), with further members of the Life family set to follow soon after, Volkswagen says.

In addition to the T-Cross-style crossover unveiled earlier this year, VW is also planning a conventional small car along the lines of the Polo.

And since the ID Life has a Targa roof (with a removable roof centre section), the company says it may also develop a completely open version.

All models will share the same MEB modular electric construction platform, which has, however, been somewhat shortened for the 4.09-metre-long ID Life.

In addition, the engine in these small cars will be moved from the rear to the front for reasons of cost and weight.

Inside, the operating system is to be simplified and reduced even further, with fewer switches and a smartphone as display. However, the production model will probably not have a head-up display instead of conventional instruments - especially given the low pricing.

But, according to many experts, this clashes with the design of the drive system, which is generously dimensioned for a vehicle in this size and price class.

According to VW, the 57kWh of battery capacity are sufficient for up to 400km of driving and with 234hp the ID Life can reach up to 180kph.

But VW says nothing is final yet. "We are showing here what is possible. We can always downgrade later," the company's engineers say.


BMW Motorrad introduces R 1250 R, R 1250 RS and S 1000 RR from RM106K

                KUALA LUMPUR: BMW Motorrad Malaysia has unveiled a trio of high powered motorcycles that include the new R 1250 R, R 1250 RS and S the high-powered S 1000 RR.

Priced on-the-road without insurance, the trio of bikes starts the price hike with the new R 1250 R at RM105,500 and is accompanied by three colour options of  Light White, Racing Blue Metallic or Racing Red.

Moving higher into the price range is the R 1250 RS at RM106,500 (available only in Imperial Blue Metallic) before reaching the high-powered S 1000 RR at RM138,500 which can be had in Light White, Racing Blue Metallic or Racing Red.

These bikes are available under BMW Group Financial Services Malaysia's Financing Plan and, based on an 80% loan over a four-year period, monthly repayments for the R 1250 R starts from RM1,250 while the R 1250 RS starts from RM1,300 and S 1000 RR starts from RM1,690.

Additionally, owners can also enjoy additional benefits such as the Premium Engine Oil Inclusive, Service Inclusive and Warranty Extension Programmes by BMW Motorrad Malaysia on top of the standard three-year unlimited mileage warranty with three-year roadside assistance programme.

Both R 1250 R (239kg - wet) and RS (243kg - wet) are powered by the same 1,254cc boxer engine that's been redeveloped to produce 136hp at 7,750rpm and 143Nm of torque at 6,250rpm.

This allows the bikes to reach a top speed of 200kph yet fuel consumption can remain at a lowly 4.75 litres of petrol per 100km thanks to the inclusion of BMW ShiftCam Technology for the intake valves.

Accompanying the new engine are other technical changes such as an optimised oil supply, twin-jet injection valves, a new exhaust system and a 22-litre (18.0 + 4.0-litre reserve) tank.

The R variant has a saddle height of 820mm, however, a 760mm Low or an 840mm Sport seat can be had as an optional extra while the RS variant's seat is fixed at 820mm.

Standard equipment for both bikes includes Automatic Stability Control, two riding modes of Rain and Road, TFT-Display with connectivity and Hill-Start Control (HSC).

Usually offered as an added option, but now provided as standard, is the ride mode Pro (Dynamic Traction Control, Anti-lock Braking System Pro, HSC Pro and Dynamic Brake Control) as well as daytime running lights, keyless ride, Shift Assist Pro, Style HP.

Optional extras for the R and RS include hard case panniers with painted cover, top box with painted cover, tinted windshield, machined and adjustable rider footrest pegs, machined footbrake and gear shift-lever, machined hand lever brake and clutch, engine spoiler and auxilliary headlamps (RS variant only).

The new BMW S 1000 RR, now in its third iteration after having been redeveloped from scratch, now comes with a new Flex Frame to create a leaner-looking fuel tank (20.5-litre with 4.0-litre reserve) and 824mm-high saddle area for improved support and knee grip.

Along with LED reflector headlights, the sporty S 1000 RR also comes with the M Sport Package that includes an exclusive sport seat, country-specific brake lights, carbon fibre wheels and a lightweight maintenance-free battery (capable of 12 V / 8 Ah).

Because of the M Package, the bike's wet weight has been reduced down to 193.5kg from its standard 197kg - a stark difference from the second-generation's stock 208kg heft.

Contributing to the reduced weight is the lightened 999cc four-cylinder engine, also with ShiftCam Technology, and a lightweight exhaust system that has helped to improve output to 207 hp at 13,500rpm and 113Nm at 11,000rpm.

Although the bike is able to reach a top speed that's in excess of 299kph, it is still able to consume just 6.4 litres of petrol per 100km.

Included in the equipment list is the next-generation electronic suspension Dynamic Damping Control system as well as four riding modes of Rain, Road, Dynamic and Race aside from the inclusion of Launch Control and Pit Lane Limiter.

Additionally, the new superbike will also feature the ‘Pro Modes’ which offers three additional riding modes – Pro 1, Pro 2 and Pro 3, allowing the rider to individually adapt the control functions of DTC, ABS Pro, DTC Wheelie detection, throttle response (torque adjustment) and engine braking.

Ultra-fast gear shifting without the clutch is enabled by the HP Shift Assistant Pro which has been included as standard as well as the redesigned 6.5-inch TFT instrument panel that's been linked to the Multi Controller on the clutch-side panel for quick operation.

There are also individually tailored screen displays such as the Pure Ride screen that shows all the information required for regular road use while the three Core screens are designed for the racetrack.

If what's provided isn't enough, there's always the optional extra's that include the M Carbon parts footrests, M Brake-Clutch lever, tinted windshield, bubble windshield or a tinted bubble windshield.

There's also the M Seat which can be had in 814mm (low), 824mm (mid) or 849mm (high) as well as an M Datalogger and M Laptrigger, M Cover Kit, M Calibration Kit, Tank Bag and Rear Bag options.

“Our portfolio of premium motorcycles has been raising the bar in the motoring industry for more than a century now. Today, our newest premium motorcycles for the Sport and Roadster segments are now available for our customers in Malaysia,” said BMW Group Malaysia managing director Harald Hoelzl.

BMW R 1250 R

BMW R 1250 RS

BMW S 1000 RR


Ferrari offers 15-year extended warranty

                MARANELLO: Ferrari introduces the New Power15 extended warranty programme which provides cover for Prancing Horse cars for up to 15 years from the date they are first registered.

Once again, Ferrari is leading the market in its provision of after-sales services to its clients.

In 2014, in fact, Ferrari became the first marque in the world to offer clients the possibility of extending warranty cover up to 12 years.

Now it has extended that programme still further to offer owners an even better package.

Every new Ferrari comes with the standard factory three-year warranty along with a seven-year free maintenance programme.

The full factory warranty can be extended for a further two years and, from the vehicle’s 6th to 12th year, owners can stipulate the New Power warranty which provides cover on all major components.

New Power15 extends even further Ferrari’s class-leading programme with the possibility of covering the vehicle’s main mechanical components, including the engine, gearbox, PTU, suspension and steering, from year 12 right up to year 15.

The coverage for the new extension lasts for 12 months and can be renewed annually for three years.

This warranty extension option is available both for new and pre-owned Ferraris.

Subject to the car passing specific technical checks, the New Power15 extended warranty can also be provided for cars on which the Ferrari extended warranty cover has not been taken up, or on cars with gaps in the cover.

This makes the New Power15 Extended Warranty the most flexible and comprehensive package of its kind and sets a new benchmark in the automotive world.


Japan's Renesas, India's Tata Motors partner to develop chip solutions

                NEW DELHI: Japanese chipmaker Renesas Electronics Corp and India's Tata Motors have formed a strategic partnership to design, develop and make semiconductor solutions, the firms said today.

The move comes as a persistent global shortage of semiconductor chips has hobbled the automotive and electronics industries, among others, forcing production cutbacks, while highlighting global dependence on a few sources, such as Taiwan.

Renesas will collaborate with Tata Motors, India's biggest manufacturer of electric cars, on developing "next-generation automotive electronics" to accelerate the growth of electric and connected vehicles, the companies said in a statement.

"The collaboration will accelerate our presence in these areas in India as well as globally," Natarajan Chandrasekaran, the chairman of Tata holding company Tata Sons, said.

Areas of collaboration eyed by the firms include a non-exclusive partnership on emerging automotive technologies, such as advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) as well as wireless network solutions including 5G.

Here Renesas will work with Tata group firm Tejas Networks to make products initially destined for India and eventually global markets.

India is among the countries racing to subsidise domestic construction of factories that turn out semiconductors and displays in an effort to minimise supply risks.

Its plan for US$10 billion in incentives has lured applications from firms such as a joint venture between domestic conglomerate Vedanta and Taiwan's Foxconn, and Singapore's IGSS Ventures.

Oil-to-metals giant Vedanta plans to invest US$20 billion for two units for chip and display manufacturing while jeweller Rajesh Exports will invest US$3 billion in an electronic display plant.

India expects the domestic chip market to reach US$63 billion by 2026 from US$15 billion in 2020.


Smart move: Man parks car in kitchen so storm won’t blow it away

                JACKSONVILLE (Florida): It started as a light-hearted challenge between a Florida couple, can a Smart car fit into their kitchen? The answer: Yes it can.

Patrick Eldridge parked his Smart car in his kitchen to protect it from Hurricane Dorian because he didn’t want it to “blow away” and to prove that he can park his car there.

Jessica Eldridge said her car was already parked in the garage. To avoid cleaning their garage out, her husband proposed to park it in the house.

“I said there was no way he could. He said he could, ” Jessica said. “So he opened the double doors and had it in. I was amazed that it could fit. He had it in with no problems.”

Dorian was skirting Florida’s coast Wednesday, narrowly missing Jacksonville as it headed northward along the Georgia, South Carolina and North Carolina coastlines.

The Category 2 storm has devastated the Bahamas, where rescue crews have only begun taking the full measure of the damage.

With the car in the middle of the kitchen, Jessica Eldridge had to move around it to cook and serve dinner.

“I’m hoping he will pull it out pretty soon once the wind dies down, ” she said. “There is room and it’s not in the way but my dogs are confused by it.” – Philippine Daily Inquirer/Asia News Network


Order a car wash via Volvo's mobile app

                LONDON: Volvo Car UK offers its customers the convenience of having a cleaner car via its new app-based mobile valeting service - Volvo Car Mobile Wash.

Depending on the model, prices start from £22 (RM120) for a simple wash that's handled by mobile car wash company GoWashMyCar.

The new Volvo Car Mobile Wash app-based service works in conjunction with the Volvo On Call digital services platform that allows its customers the convenience of choosing the desired date, time and location of said "wash" to ensue.

Also, with the use of Volvo On Call's remote car unlocking and locking facility, customers need not be physically present.

For options, customers are able to choose the level of valet they want and can opt for a body wax or an eco-friendly water-minimising clean among others.

Exclusive to the users of the app, a free car health check is also included in the service which covers tyre pressures and tread-depth, screenwash top-up, coolant level check and visual report of the bodywork.

The service was initially available to Volvo owners with access to Volvo On Call located within the M25 that's also known as the London Orbital Motorway - a major road that encircles almost all of Greater London, England.

Currently, plans may be afoot to extend the app's reach to other parts of the UK at a later date.

“Working with the expert team at GoWashMyCar, we have designed this new service to be hassle-free for our customers and to provide them with the kind of premium-quality valeting their car deserves. It is another example of how we can use the technology and peace-of-mind security of Volvo On Call to make life easier,” said Volvo Car UK marketing strategy director Mike Johnstone.


Fancy a RM35,000 Ferrari office chair?

                MARANELLO: If the car is way above your pay grade, the Ferrari office chair will be a more affordable consolation.

The “Cockpit” is the first office chair designed by Ferrari Design Centre and produced by Poltrona Frau, which has upholstered the interiors of Ferrari cars since the 80s.

The armchair has an architectural and modular structure, and offers expansion possibilities. For the moment two versions are available: the President and the Executive. Both comprise a reclining base and seat, integrated with two different backrests. The President is the managerial model with a high backrest that is inspired by the ergonomics of competitive racing seats. The Executive model, a chair that adapts to all work contexts, has a deliberately low and narrow backrest to ensure more freedom of movement.

The President retails for 10,000 euros (RM47,000), while the Executive is priced at 7,500 euros (RM35,205).

The materials are the same as those used in Ferrari cars, like the external shell moulded from carbon or alutex. The central band on the seat takes its cue from racing seats, while the swivel device sports the same design and mechanical elements as the steering wheel.

For the leather upholstery, the Ferrari Design Centre team has chosen shades and finishes inspired by the trim of the three Tailor-Made service lines, which allow for the personalised configuration of the car: Scuderia, Classica and Inedita. Cockpit can also be customised in terms of its colours and materials.


Tesla first foreign automaker to build wholly-owned Shanghai plant, says WSJ

                SAN FRANCISCO: Tesla has reached an agreement with Shanghai authorities that would make it the first foreign automaker to build its own plant in China, putting it in the driver's seat in the world's biggest electric-vehicle market, the Wall Street Journal reported.

The Silicon Valley electric carmaker's wholly-owned manufacturing facility would be built in Shanghai's free-trade zone, the Wall Street Journal said, quoting unnamed sources with knowledge of the deal, and could allow Tesla to dramatically lower the cost of its cars in China.

China usually requires foreign automakers to set up joint ventures with local Chinese partners, which involves splitting profits and giving away some technology, though they also avoid import tariffs.

AFP was not immediately able to obtain comment from Tesla or the Shanghai government.

China's electric-vehicle market is already the world's largest and is expected to continue growing fast, especially since the government plans to require that all automakers' sales include a certain percentage of electric vehicles from 2019.

Beijing is also mulling plans to ban fossil-fuel burning cars by an unspecified date, following decisions by France and Britain to outlaw the sale of such vehicles from 2040 to limit emissions. No timeframe for the launch of the Tesla plant was given.

Tesla had said in June that it was in talks with the Shanghai government and that it would detail its China manufacturing plans by the end of the year.

More than half a million "new-energy" cars were sold in China last year, and the government is targetting sales in the millions in coming years.

The Wall Street Journal said any cars built by Tesla in the free-trade zone would still incur a 25% import tariff.


Ford wants tequila-maker Jose Cuervo's leftovers - VIDEOS

                WASHINGTON: Ford seeks to develop a sustainable and lightweight material with the world's best selling tequila-maker Jose Cuervo for use in its vehicle line-up.

The collaboration expands the automaker’s portfolio of earth-conscious materials to include the tequila distributor's leftover agave plant fibres.

The agave-derived bio-plastics for parts include wire-harnesses, heating-ventilating-air-conditioning (HVAC) units and storage bins, which are currently undergoing test phases and have so far shown to possess high levels of aesthetic qualities and durability.

Use of this plant-based material could help to decrease vehicular weight, thus lowering fuel consumption, and if the fibres do find a permanent place in Ford's vehicles, there shouldn't be any problems of shortage since Jose Cuervo harvests up to 300 tonnes of agave per day.

Currently, the automaker uses several bio-based materials in its vehicles, while testing many more for future applications that include algae, tomato peel and carbon dioxide.

This helps to improve the carmaker's environmental impact by reducing the use of petrochemicals and reducing carbon emissions while also helping to lighten their vehicles to reduce fossil fuel usage.

Such sustainable materials used by the company include Kenaf (a tropical plant in the cotton family) that's used in the door bolsters of the Ford Escape; Repreve fabric made from recycled plastic bottles (saves five million plastic bottles from landfills annually) used in the F-150 truck.

Other materials also include post-consumer cotton from denim and T-shirts used as interior padding and sound insulation in most Ford vehicles; EcoLon post-consumer nylon carpeting found as cylinder head covers in the Ford Escape, Fusion, Mustang and F-150.

The use of recycled plastic bottles are becoming floor carpeting, wheel liners and shields in several

vehicles including the Ford Transit and C-MAX, furthermore the company has gone to the extent of utilising recycled post-consumer tyres for other seals and gaskets.

The company also uses rice hulls to reinforce plastics in the F-150's electrical harness, while soy-based foams are used as seat cushions, seat backs and head restraints in Ford’s North American vehicle line-up, while wheat straw is used in the Ford Flex to reinforce storage bins.

Lastly, cellulose tree fibres are used in the armrest of the Lincoln MKX - replacing glass-filled plastic. This industry-first material weighs 10%-less and is produced 30% faster.


Govt stays cautious on proposal to limit 'kapcai' speed to 70kph

                KUALA LUMPUR: The proposal to limit the speed of low-capacity motorcycles, better known as ‘kapcai’, to 70kph needs to be studied first because its implementation would involve about 10 million registered motorcycle owners, said Transport Minister Anthony Loke.

He said the study should cover safety and various other aspects and how far it could be implemented.

‘’We are aware there is a proposal to limit the speed of kapcai, but with the situation in Malaysia, it needs a very big approval as it involves many kapcai owners in the country.

‘’Maybe it involves 10 million motorcycle owners. So, this is a decision which will have a big impact. I am not rejecting the proposal but in terms of practicality, it must be viewed from numerous angles,’’ he said here today.

In August, Works Minister Baru Bian was reported as saying that the recommendation to impose a speed limit for kapcai could not be implemented yet as it needed time for a thorough study.

The Safety First Group, a road pro-safety group, had urged the government to enforce the 70kph speed limit for kapcai and provide more dedicated motorcycle lanes to reduce accidents involving them.

Commenting on the call for motorcycle lanes on the left of road, Loke said it would be submitted to the Economic Affairs Ministry to make it part of the 12th Malaysia Plan.

He said it was a good proposal but its implementation required high expenditure as it involved building road structures.

‘’We hope we can build special motorcycle lanes and also provide highway designs in future which take the matter into account.’’


China tells automakers to strengthen data protection

                BEIJING: The Chinese government has urged automakers to strengthen data protection and store locally generated key data in the country.

Automakers need to get regulatory approval for both when they need to export critical data and before they update in-car systems, according to a new policy published by the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology on its website.

The policy does not include lines of punishment should companies fail to follow the rules.

This comes amid China's push to ensure the security of data generated by connected vehicles as the proliferation of smart cars such as Teslas fuels concerns about national security, in line with its broader aim to tighten policies around privacy.

China issued in April a second version of a draft Personal Information Protection Law, which calls for tech platforms to impose stricter measures to ensure secure storage of user data.

In September, it will implement its Data Security Law, which requires companies that process "critical data" to conduct risk assessments and submit reports.


CarSifu and FMCCAM sign MoU to seek collaborative ventures

Loke (standing, fifth from left) witnessing the MOU signing between Yeow, Khoo and Khor, alongside Tony (standing, fifth from right).

KUALA LUMPUR: CarSifu, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Star Media Group (SMG) has inked a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Federation of Motor & Credit Companies Associations of Malaysia (FMCCAM) to jointly explore collaborative opportunities.

Witnessed by Transport Minister Anthony Loke, the MoU was signed by SMG group chief executive officer Alex Yeow, FMCCAM honorary secretary general Khoo Kah Jin, and ezAuto Asia group managing director Khor Lin Yong.

Also present to witness the signing were FMCCAM president Datuk Tony Khor, Public Gold Group chairman Datuk Wira Louis Ng Chun Hau, eAutoGen Capital Sdn Bhd advisor Tan Sri Richard Koh, and eAuto Sdn Bhd chief executive officer Morvin Tan at HXC Grand Ballroom in conjunction with FMCCAM’s 55th anniversary celebration.

Yeow said that the MoU serves as a starting point to more strategic partnerships between all three parties.

“SMG is one of Malaysia’s leading media organisations and is highly sought after as a credible source of news and up-to-date information. On the other hand, FMCCAM serves as the voice of Malaysia's independent motor vehicle dealers, providing sales and services to motorists and businesses in Malaysia.

“Through this multi-party collaboration, CarSifu and FMCCAM can leverage on each other’s reach and member base to build a complete ecosystem on all things automotive and provide consumers with end-to-end solutions,” said Yeow.

Yeow explained that when the partnership kicks off, dealers will be able to better connect their businesses to the marketplace, improve vehicle buyers service experience and satisfaction, and eventually provide a hassle-free and smooth buying experience for consumers.

He added that consumers are set to enjoy a one-stop platform for all their needs in getting pre-owned cars, ranging from comparison and selection, reliable inspection and quality certification, competitive insurance, loan and extended warranty, seamless transfer and more, all with a peace of mind.

“Together, we can bridge the gap of trust between sellers and buyers, and drive the future of Malaysia's automotive industry and community forward,” said Yeow.

Established in 1979, FMCCAM pays close attention to instilling confidence in buyers looking to purchase pre-owned vehicles, as well as protecting pre-owned car dealers from associated risks.

To date, FMCCAM is made up of nine-member state associations, including 3,500 registered members out of 5,000 independent motor vehicle dealers nationwide.

Tony said the pre-owned car market is constantly evolving and the challenges faced by pre-owned car dealers are never the same.

“International car firms with huge capitals, better resources and online platforms are gaining control of the market in Malaysia and this has affected our supply of vehicles.

“To tackle this challenge, we should focus on offering quality service, before, during and after sales, for the sustainable development of the pre-owned car industry. I’m confident that this collaboration with CarSifu will help FMCCAM and our partners raise the bar in our services and expand our reach to more consumers,” he said.

Providing an example, Tony said FMCCAM has partnered with e-AutoGen to provide an attractive extended warranty programme that also helps dealers remain competitive.

For as low as RM298 per year, the car is covered in terms of breakdown caused by brakes system, gearbox, and engine for up to 16 years, as long as mileage is below 200,000km.

“With these innovative offerings coupled with the strengths of SMG as a leading media group, we’ll be able to build a one-stop solution platform for buyers through CarSifu. SMG will also allow the pre-owned car industry to foster a more transparent dealership customer experience and ultimately give buyers the assurance they need when making a purchase,” he added.

The other signee for the MoU is ezAuto Asia Sdn Bhd, an online platform which aims to connect all car stakeholders in a transparent and risk-free marketplace, starting with car dealers and end users.


VW may sell off Ducati in group revamp

                FRANKFURT: Volkswagen is considering a possible sale of Italian motorcycle maker Ducati as Europe's largest carmaker streamlines operations to help fund a strategic overhaul following its emissions scandal, two people familiar with the matter said.

Volkswagen (VW) is reining in spending across the group, including cutting thousands of jobs at its core passenger-car brand, to help pay for a multibillion-euro shift to embrace electric cars and new mobility services.

VW has tasked investment banking boutique Evercore with evaluating possible options including a sale of the Ducati brand, which its Audi division acquired for about 860 million euros (US$935 million) in 2012, the sources said.

While Wolfsburg-based VW has started reaching out to potential buyers to sound out their interest, no decision has been taken on whether the brand will be sold, they added.

VW referred to Audi for comment. Audi and Evercore declined to comment.

One of the sources said Ducati made annual earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA) of roughly 100 million euros and could fetch a valuation of up to 1.5 billion euros, or 15 times its core earnings - a multiple similar to that of Italian supercar maker Ferrari.

A banker close to the industry said potential buyers were likely to offer VW an earnings multiple of more than 10.

The motorbike maker may appeal to peers in China, India's Hero or investors such as the consortium that bought British sports car maker Aston Martin in 2007, the sources said.

"It is an asset for trophy buyers with bigger interest in the brand than in the technology," one of the people said.

Private equity firms could also be attracted to a brand whose motorcycles have won the Superbike racing competition 17 times, the sources said.

It remained unclear whether large competitors such as Polaris, Harley Davidson, Suzuki, Honda or Kawasaki might be interested, they added.

If VW does not attract sufficient interest, it may also consider a stock market flotation for Ducati, the people said.

Analysts questioned Audi's purchase of Ducati when it was announced in April 2012, saying the deal had no economic or industrial logic and just reflected former VW chairman Ferdinand Piech's passion for the Italian company's expertise on design and light engines.

But Piech has since bowed out as chairman and agreed earlier this month to sell the bulk of his stake in the Porsche SE family holding that controls VW to his younger brother.

VW said last June it would review its portfolio of assets and brands, rekindling speculation among analysts that "non-core" businesses such as Ducati or a diesel-engine business for machinery could be up put for sale.

Chief executive Matthias Mueller, asked by Reuters at the March 14 annual press conference whether this review had reached any conclusions, said VW still had nothing to announce.

Ducati posted sales of 593 million euros in 2016, according to Audi's annual report. Audi's motorcycle unit, of which Ducati is a part, made adjusted earnings before interest and taxes of 51 million euros in that year.