Top 10 EV terms that are likely to confuse the lay person

                LONDON: The top 10 items of confusing electric vehicle (EV) information have been revealed following research by DriveElectric, one of the UK’s leading electric vehicle leasing companies.

Feedback has shown that many motorists don’t understand terminology relating to EVs, and in addition, there is a lack of consistency in the way that such information is presented in the industry.

DriveElectric has found that the top 10 areas of EV information where more clarity and consistency is required are as follows:

EV acronyms

There are many EV acronyms that drivers of petrol and diesel cars don’t understand. Two examples are ‘kW’ and ‘kWh’. EV battery sizes are quoted in kWh (kilowatt hours). Charging speeds are quoted in kW (kilowatts). However the output of an EV’s electric motor is also expressed in kW – although sometimes this is quoted in PS, HP or BHP. Being aware of the power output of an EV is important.

The output of an electric motor of a plug-in hybrid vehicle (PHEV) is usually relatively low, whereas the power output of the electric motor of a pure EV is usually much higher, which is the reason why BEVs (battery electric vehicles) have strong performance, but PHEVs typically have poor performance when driving on electric power.

However most people won’t be aware of the power output of an electric motor in a plug-in hybrid because it generally isn’t publicised widely.

Battery size

The battery capacity of an EV is stated in kWh, which is a new concept to many motorists, and to make things even more confusing, sometimes battery sizes are quoted in terms of the "actual" size of an EV’s battery, and sometimes battery sizes are quoted for the ‘usable’ size of an EV’s battery – both of which are different.

Consumers can find it hard to know which battery size is being quoted for a particular EV, making like-for-like comparisons difficult.

Driving range

Motorists aren’t clear about the realistic driving range that can be expected from an EV. Although the older and less accurate New European Driving Cycle (NEDC) driving range figure has been replaced by the updated official Worldwide Harmonised Light Vehicle Test Procedure (WLTP) figure, this is still not a realistic expectation of what can expected in real-world driving due to variables such as driving style, weather, load, topography, etc.

It’s often not clear for car buyers if the electric driving range figures displayed in response to online searches are for WLTP or estimated real-world driving ranges.

Charging speeds

What’s the difference between slow, fast, rapid and ultra-rapid charging? Most people don’t know, but more worryingly, there is much inconsistency within the industry over the use of these terms. Slow charging should refer to charging using a 3-pin plug, or up to 3 kW. Fast charging should refer to 7 kW (a home wall box) to 22 kW (typically found at a public charging site). Rapid charging refers to public charging that is between 50 kW to 150 kW, and ultra-rapid charging refers to charging at rates above 150 kW. The problem is that the terminology is applied differently by different people.

Three-phase charging

Many car manufacturers, particularly German OEMs, quote charging times for EVs based on using 11 kW, or three-phase, electric power, because this is common for domestic properties in Germany. However very few homes in the UK have this level of power – it’s mainly commercial premises that are likely to have three-phase power in the UK. So quoting times for 11 kW charging can be misleading for EV buyers.

Maximum charge rate

Different EVs have different maximum charging rates, but research has shown that most car buyers have limited understanding about this. The maximum charging rate of an EV is important, because if you plug your EV into a 350 kW chargepoint but your EV can only charge at 100 kW, then your charging will be slow compared to an EV that can charge at 350 kW.

Drop-off in charging speed

Many EV drivers believe that if they charge at a 100 kW chargepoint, the car will charge at 100 kW for the duration of the charge. In reality, nothing could be further from the truth.

If you’re lucky, a charge could start at 100 kW, but it could be less, and it will drop from this rate, typically reducing down in ‘steps’. This is because an EV is likely to charge at a fast rate when its battery is almost empty, but when the battery charge increases, the charging speed will drop significantly.

It’s for this reason that EV manufacturers will typically quote rapid charge times from 10% to 80% rather than to 100% – although again there is much inconsistency in the industry about the exact figures that are quoted – some manufacturers quote the time taken for an EV to charge from 0% to 80%.

This is also why it takes a long time to charge from 80% to 100% at a public rapid charger – so it’s best to stop charging at that point and let other EV drivers use the charger.

Public charging, connectors & cables

Motorists who have previously never used public charging are often confused and anxious about charging an EV. There are lots of technical terms used when referring to charging, connectors and cables – such as CHAdeMO, CCS, Type 1, Type 2, etc. The good news is that the vast majority of new EVs use just one type of charging connector for public rapid charging – CCS (combined charging system) – and charging at most rapid chargers is as simple as connecting the charger’s cable with the CCS connector to the car’s socket and making a contactless payment.

Efficiency

A "miles per gallon" figure has been quoted for petrol and diesel cars for many years, so buyers can compare how efficient one car is against another. A "miles per gallon" figure isn’t applicable to an EV, but, with rising energy prices, it’s important to know how efficient an EV is compared to rivals. Efficiency figures do exist for EVs, but they’re often not easy to find, and the figures quoted are often inconsistent. For example, some EVs have a "miles/kWh" figure quoted, whereas others have figures for "kWh/100km", "Wh/mi" or "Wh/km". Miles/kWh is the most easily comparable with miles per gallon, so this should be used for consistency.

Electrified

Manufacturers are increasingly using the term "electrified" for their cars, but what does this mean? Does it mean fully electric? Or plug-in hybrid? Or hybrid? Or mild-hybrid? Well, car manufacturers seem to use the term to cover all of the above technologies, which makes it very confusing – and misleading – for car buyers.

DriveElectric has used the above findings to inform the development of content on its website to provide clear information about EVs.

For example, each vehicle is accompanied by a graphic that instantly provides four values for an EV’s range: official WLTP range, summer real-world range, winter real-world range, and the combined real-world range. In addition, information is clearly provided about an EV’s efficiency, useable battery size, and maximum rate of charging.


New Mitsubishi dealership opens in Bukit Raja, Klang

                KUALA LUMPUR: A Mitsubishi 3S centre has opened in Bukit Raja, Klang.

The new 3S Centre is located at No. 36, Jalan Astaka 4, Bandar Bukit Raja, 41050 Klang Selangor.

With a built-up area of close to 5,000 square feet, the 3S Centre by dealer MN Wheels Sdn Bhd houses a customer lounge with WiFi and sufficient space to display up to two cars. Its service centre also comes with a fully-equipped workshop with three service bays.

This is the second Mitsubishi Motors showroom for MN Wheels Sdn Bhd with the first one in Kuala Selangor. Both showrooms incorporate Mitsubishi Motors’ new corporate brand; represented by its global tagline "Drive Your Ambition".

“With Mitsubishi Motors’ sales growing quickly and expected to increase over the coming years, we aim to open a new showroom in every quarter for financial year 2021 (April 2021 to March 2022)," said MMM chief executive officer Tomoyuki Shinnishi.


Renault offers 1-month subscription trial plan with 50% savings on Captur

                KUALA LUMPUR: TC Euro Cars, the official distributor of Renault vehicles in Malaysia, has announced a new limited promotion on its Renault Subscription 1-Month Trial Plan.

The promotion, from now until Oct 31, follows the French carmaker's recent F1 podium finish at the infamous Nurburgring circuit in Germany.

Those considering the Capture crossover can now enjoy a 50% savings at a reduced rate of RM699 (normal price RM1,499) which includes road tax, insurance, regular servicing and unlimited mileage.

No booking fee or security deposit is required and there are 100 pre-owned Captur units available.

The promotion is available exclusively via Shopee Malaysia and Renault Malaysia E-Store.

Customers who have made a booking can redeem their special offer on the trial plan between Nov 16 and Jan 15, 2021.

All pre-owned Captur vehicles are pre-facelift versions and have been inspected to meet the company's quality and safety standards.

The Captur is powered by a turbocharged TCe 120 engine that is mated to a six-speed Efficient Dual Clutch (EDC) transmission that can deliver performance equivalent to a naturally aspirated 1.8-litre engine.

Compact, yet spacious and refined, the Captur is considered highly suited to today’s modern urban drivers.

“With the ongoing pandemic, we understand that times are still very challenging for many Malaysians. We hope that this new offer will help lighten their financial load while ensuring they can stay safe with an affordable private transportation solution,” said TC Euro Cars CEO Wong Hoe Mun.

For more information, log on to www.renault.com.my or call 1800-18-8663 (Monday – Sunday, 8.00am – 8.00pm).


Ford follows GM, VW with two new dedicated EV platforms by 2025, say sources

                DETROIT: Ford Motor Co will announce today that it is developing two dedicated all-electric vehicle platforms, one for full-size trucks and SUVs, the other for cars and smaller SUVs, as part of a strategy to catch General Motors Co, Volkswagen AG and Tesla Inc in the global electrification race, sources familiar with Ford's plans said.

The all-EV platforms are part of an ambitious multi-year, multi-billion-dollar plan the No. 2 US automaker will outline to investors at its Capital Markets Day in an online event.

The dedicated platforms will give Ford common architectures — including shared chassis components, electric motors and battery packs — on which to base many of its future electric vehicles. That will enable it to simplify and reduce the expense of everything from logistics to manufacturing as it transitions from a global lineup of mostly fossil-fueled products.

Ford said it does not comment on future product speculation.

At Wednesday's investor event, the company also will provide more details on its long-range battery strategy, including a recently announced battery joint venture with Korea's SK Innovation, as well as broader goals for electric, commercial and self-driving vehicles, said the sources, who asked not to be named. read more

Ford previously said it will spend US$22 billion through 2025 on electrifying many of its vehicles in the Americas, Europe and China. The sources said Ford is planning to launch at least nine all-electric cars and car-based SUVs and at least three electric trucks, vans and larger SUVs, including second-generation editions of the Ford F-150 Lightning and Mustang Mach-E at mid-decade.

What Ford chief executive Jim Farley cannot predict, however, is whether — and how many — customers will embrace the newer battery-powered vehicles, even if they are able to match or beat current combustion-engine counterparts in price, performance and operating costs. That concern is shared by nearly all automakers except Tesla, whose lineup is 100% electric.

Ford's traditional rivals have sprinted ahead, with both VW and GM committing tens of billions of dollars to electrify their fleets in the same markets as Ford, but on more aggressive timetables. VW and GM each will have at least two dedicated EV platforms, on which many of their future vehicles will be based.

VW launched the first of its all-new electric vehicles, the ID.3, last year in Europe, while GM will begin building its new Hummer EV pickup later this year in the United States. Both companies also are rolling out additional EV models that will share key components with those vehicles.

Ford earlier this year introduced the Mustang Mach-E, an electric crossover built on a new dedicated platform with the internal designation GE, the sources said.

A newer version of that platform, designated GE2, will debut in mid-2023, underpinning new Ford and Lincoln SUVs, according to Sam Fiorani, head of global forecasting at AutoForecast Solutions.

The same GE2 platform eventually will be used as the base for replacements for the Mustang coupe and Mach-E, the sources said.

Ford will use a second passenger car platform — a version of Volkswagen's MEB architecture — in Europe for at least two new models beginning in 2023, the sources said.

In February, Ford said its European lineup will be all-electric by 2030.

The redesigned F-150 Lightning, due in late 2025, is expected to be the first to employ the new TE1 truck architecture, Fiorani said. The first-generation Lightning, which debuts next spring, uses a platform that is heavily derived from the standard F-150.

Ford could also use the new TE1 platform for electric versions of the Lincoln Navigator and Ford Expedition SUVs, the sources said.

In addition, Ford is expected to get a new electric vehicle, possibly a midsize pickup, that would be based on a platform from EV startup Rivian, in which Ford is an investor.


B10 biodiesel okay for our cars, says Mercedes-Benz

                KUALA LUMPUR: Mercedes-Benz Malaysia has declared the B10 biodiesel safe for use in its diesel-powered vehicles.

It said Daimler AG’s research and development on the blend has found no risks to its current diesel vehicle fleet in Malaysia.

“After having initially stated that the B10 biodiesel blend requires further consideration, we are now pleased to inform our customers about the B10 biodiesel blend suitability for all Mercedes-Benz diesel vehicles currently sold by Mercedes-Benz Malaysia," said Mercedes-Benz Malaysia outgoing president and CEO Roland Folger.

"We have service intervals of 12,000km to ensure our customers are not affected by the diesel quality.  Our diesel-powered vehicles sold in Malaysia were seen to have run both smoothly and safely with the use of the B10 biodiesel,” he said.

The introduction of B10 biodiesel would have environmental, technological and cost impacts, said Folger, adding that stakeholders must work together to resolve the effects.

In contrast, BMW Group Malaysia has said the B10 blend was not compatible with its diesel cars. It had said last month that the use of the B10 blend could cause engine damage. It had also said modern diesel engines in Malaysia could run on the B7 biodiesel but not B10.


Audi now taking deposits for e-tron all-electric SUV

                INGOLSATDT: In many sectors, expecting customers to put down a sizeable deposit on a product they haven't seen, other than in pictures, that won't even go into production until next year would seem to be asking quite a lot of them.

But it doesn't appear to be a problem for Audi as it's now expanding the areas where customers can put down a €2,000 (RM9,800) deposit on its first fully-electric SUV, the e-tron.

After having already received 5,000 orders from customers in Norway, which is Europe's largest market currently for EVs, Audi dealers in Switzerland, Austria and Belgium are now able to take e-tron deposits from consumers.

Although the e-tron is currently only being marketed to the public in those four countries, an Audi spokesman has said that local sales organisations in other markets such as China and Germany will make decisions on when they will start taking orders separately.

The e-tron SUV will be the first vehicle to spearhead Audi's electric car product offensive, which is particularly important for the company as it continues to try to restore its technology credentials in the wake of its parent Volkswagen Group's diesel emissions scandal. The SUV EV will be launched later this year, when it will then go head-to-head in the market with the likes of the Tesla Model X and Jaguar I-Pace.

As well as the obvious environmentally friendly credentials, the Audi e-tron will also boast a driving range on a full charge of 500km and fast charging.

The vehicle's drivetrain will develop 496hp and as much as 800Nm of torque. That translates to acceleration from 0 to 100kph in just 4.6 seconds, and onwards to a top speed will be 210kph.

And as far as the size of the SUV is concerned, its 4880mm length will see it positioned in the market right in between the current Q5 and Q7, although the e-tron's roofline will be lower than both of those models.

The vehicle will finally be unveiled in Brussels at an Audi summit in August, and it's the first of three all-electric vehicles Audi is set to launch by 2020.


Kawasaki makes comeback with Modenas

                GURUN: Kawasaki is re-establishing its presence in the Malaysian market through its partner Modenas following two years of uncertainty for bike owners on the brand status and aftersales service position, those involving warranties in particular.

This happened due to Kawasaki terminating the services of the previous distributor two years ago as it wanted to be more directly involved in the Malaysian market.

Its link with Modenas was already firmly established since the late 1990s as the popular Modenas underbone models Kriss is based on Kawasaki models with a high percentage of local content.

Additionally, Kawasaki has a 19% share in Modenas and this was increased to 30% earlier in the year, with the possibility of a further increase in stake up to 48% in the near future.

With Modenas being the third best seller in the Malaysian motorcycle market (first five months sales of more than 31,200 bikes), Kawasaki obviously saw the potential of strong and continuous local motorcycle market demand for its underbone models all the way up to big engine capacity touring and sport models.

Before Kawasaki could take firm steps to implement new distribution strategies in 2020, the pandemic struck leaving Kawasaki and its customers in a kind of limbo over motorcycle servicing, warranty and spare parts.

Since the beginning of 2022, Kawasaki quickly got down to be more involved in the market by upping its stake in Modenas and appointing it as the official distributor of its range, both in Modenas and Kawasaki brand names.

It then went about establishing a new dealer network with Modenas that comprises two main channels: Kawasaki Shop and Kawasaki Station.

The former is an exclusive one that only sells the Kawasaki motorcycle range while the second network consists of multi-brand dealers who also promotes the Kawasaki range.

Together, they add up to 20 service dealers for Kawasaki owners and this number would be doubled to 40 in 2023.

With Kawasaki taking a greater stake in Modenas, new assembly lines were set up to put together the Kawasaki range targeted at the growing Malaysian market.

A recent visit to the sprawling Modenas factory in Gurun, Kedah gave us an insight into the initial assembly of the new product that would spearhead Kawasaki’s concerted comeback.

This is the two-cylinder four-stroke Ninja 250 and Z250, both with ABS (anti-lock brake system) and non-ABS models, that would be launched by the end of July.

Currently, the parts are all brought in from Kawasaki Thailand and would carry the Kawasaki brand name initially.

 Ninja 250.

Kawasaki-Modenas would work towards 33% local content later in the year and this newly assembled range would carry the Modenas name subsequently.

The assembly line was set up by engineers from Kawasaki Japan and Thailand, and the quality of the assembly process is kept high with training input and supervision from Kawasaki engineers.

As part of the quality assembly procedure, a special dyno test machine was brought in from Japan.

Unlike the existing one at the factory for the Modenas underbones that test the newly built machine on the rear wheel, this unique dyno test machine conducts tests on both the front and rear wheels.

 Z250.

The role of the dyno test machine is to test the engine performance and braking capabilities especially for the ABS braking capability in front.

Apparently, Kawasaki is the only motorcycle manufacturer in Japan to use such a dyno test machine and its instalment in the Modenas factory make it the first in the Asean region to have such an equipment.

The Ninja 250 and Z250 range would be followed up towards year end by the local assembly of the popular Vulcan S 650, which would also carry the Modenas name badge.

As there are lots of room for expansion at the Modenas factory, plans are already afoot to set up more assembly lines alongside that for the Ninja and Z250 to put together the expanding Kawasaki range to come.

 Vulcan S.

For models above 650cc, Kawasaki would offer them as imported motorcycles and Modenas would again serve as distributor for the CBU range.

Kawasaki buffs would be interested to know that the mouth-watering CBU range includes the Ninja ZX10R, Z900RS, Ninja 1000SX and Versys 1000.

As far as the motorcycle prices are concerned, Modenas CEO Roslan Roskan says their joint intention is to offer highly interesting and appealing models at ‘affordable’ prices.

For sure, that inference means the CKD models would carry prices that are lower than the imported ones made available previously.

Another attractive note for Kawasaki fans is that there is also the possibility of a Super Moped model in the comeback strategy in time to come, probably in 2023 along with other exciting models if all goes to plan.


Proposal for electric car plant in Johor

                JOHOR BARU: Permas assemblyman Datuk Che Zakaria Mohd Salleh today said he would submit a proposal to Johor Mentri Besar Datuk Osman Sapian for the building of a modern garbage disposal plant and an electric car plant in Pasir Gudang.

He said the proposed modern garbage disposal facility would use technology from Finland, while the electric car factory would use technology from China and Japan.

"We have identified a suitable site to build the garbage disposal and still looking for a suitable site for the proposed electric car factory," he said recently.

Che Zakaria said other development projects were also in the pipeline for Pasir Gudang , such as a floating restaurant at Tasek Bandar Seri Alam.


Traffic summonses at 50% discount to nudge offenders to pay up

                KUALA LUMPUR: Police are offering a 50% discount for traffic offenders to settle their outstanding summonses online from Jan 18 to Feb 1, said Bukit Aman Traffic Investigation and Enforcement Department director Datuk Azisman Alias.

He said this year, police would emphasise e-payments for any party that wants to settle their outstanding summonses, especially during this festive season.

"But this time, I try to give special discount of 50%. We never did online payment before which would not require people to queue for hours to pay.

READ MORE: Police targeting 'mat rempits' during CNY season

"You can make payments online via MyEG and Rilex.com," he told reporters here on Monday.

According to Azisman, 5,763 cases of fatal crashes were reported last year compared to 5,870 cases in 2018.

"This is the department's key performance index where we have reduced fatal accidents by 107 cases or 1.8%. Although the number is small, this is our KPI, and we expect this number to reduce every year," he added.


Proton Ertiga MPV launched from RM59K

                PETALING JAYA: The Proton Ertiga compact MPV is launched today in two variants with prices starting from just under RM59,000.

The B-segment MPV will be offered in Executive (5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic) and Executive Plus 4-speed automatic, priced respectively at RM58,800, RM61,800 and RM64,800.

Smaller than the Exora, the six-seater Ertiga is the fourth and final product from Proton this year to be rolled out after the new Perdana, Persona and Saga.

Proton said the Ertiga is its first MPV with Energy Efficient Vehicle (EEV)-status and is based on the Suzuki model by the same name. The Ertiga is the first model introduced through Proton's collaboration with Japan's Suzuki Motor Corporation.

Powering the Ertiga is a 1.4-litre Suzuki K14B engine with variable valve timing (VVT) that delivers 92hp at 6,000rpm and 130Nm of torque at 4,000rpm.

The engine with dual-overhead cams (DOHC) has 16 valves, metal timing chain, multi-point injection, plastic manifold and drive-by-wire technology. Other features include headlamp levelling, 4 speakers, radio/CD/MP3 and USB/iPod jack.

The Executive Plus is fitted with auto fold side mirrors, audio controls on the steering wheel, chrome finish inner door, and fog lamp garnish.

Safety features include two front airbags, anti-lock braking system, electronic brake force distribution, power window anti trap (driver's side only) and reverse sensors.

The vehicle has a length of 4,265mm, width of 1,695mm, height of 1,685mm, wheelbase of 2,740mm and kerb weight of 1,175kg.

The Ertiga claims a fuel economy (at a constant 90kph) of 5.7-litres/100km for the manual and 6.0-litres/100km for automatic. Fuel is fed from a 45-litre tank and wheels are 15-inch alloys with a 15-inch steel spare.

Front suspension is MacPherson struts while rear is a torsion beam-type. Colours available are red, brown, white and grey.

READ MORE: First drive of Proton Ertiga MPV ahead of launch

Proton Ertiga 1.4 Executive

Proton Ertiga 1.4 Executive Plus


PLUS toll charges may go up 5% next year

                KUALA LUMPUR: Brace yourselves, folk, for the possibility that PLUS toll rates may go up by 5% next year.

Deputy Works Minister Datuk Rosnah Rashid Shirlin said PLUS would be allowed to raise toll rates by 5% every three years from 2016 until the extended concession period ends in 2038.

"However, the Government will have a right to study PLUS' application to increase toll rates after considering the Consumer Price Index and certified traffic volume audit.

"This means that there is will not be an automatic toll hike," she said when replying a question raised by Datuk Ahmad Fauzi Zahari (BN-Setiawangsa) in Parliament today.

She said the new terms following the review of the concession period did not include PLUS' management of the Penang Bridge.

She added that PLUS was to have reviewed its toll rates in 2015 under a concession review agreement in 2011.

She said the previous permitted hike was 10% every three years based on a calculation of 13.96 sen per kilometer.

Earlier, when answering a question by Datuk Haji Mohd Idris Jusi (PKR-Batu Pahat), Rosnah said PLUS made a post-tax profit of merely RM8.4mil out of the total RM2.16bil in toll revenue collection last year.

She said this was based on the 506 million vehicles using eight highways under PLUS's management in 2014.

She noted that a bulk of the company's collection revenue was used to repay loans (50%) with the remaining was used as operating and maintenance costs (20% to 25%), upgrading works (15%) and returns to shareholders. (10%).

Rosnah said Khazanah Nasional Berhad (51%) and the Employees Provident Fund (49%) owned PLUS.

Last Monday, Works Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof had informed Parliament that RM214mil had been set aside under Budget 2016 to compensate PLUS.

He said the compensation was part of measures taken by the Government to ensure that toll rates were not raised to the maximum by highway operators.


Paris plans to ban through traffic in city centre from 2022

                PARIS: Paris mayor Anne Hidalgo’s latest effort to rein in car use and fight pollution would prevent non-residents from driving across the French capital's historic heart in 2022.

The plan would stop through traffic from a large zone covering Paris’ core, to cut pollution and noise and free up more space for trees, cycle lanes and pedestrian areas. A public consultation for the plan launched this week.

The new zone would not ban cars altogether: It would still permit motorised access to the zone’s residents (including short-term hotel guests), to people with disabilities, and to vehicles used for public transit, deliveries or services.

The new rules would nonetheless make it illegal to drive across the city centre without stopping. That would cover about 55% of total traffic — more than 100,000 cars — passing through this zone on average per day, the city says.

The plan comes after years during which Hidalgo’s administration has systematically sought to rein in automobile use. The city has already barred heavily polluting diesel cars from within the city’s beltway, pedestrianized the Seine quayside, reduced car access on many major streets and expanded green areas and sidewalks in areas previously reserved for driving and parking.

After introducing further vehicle lane closures and bike paths during the pandemic, Hidalgo has remained adamant that the lifting of lockdown restrictions and the return to workplaces must not signal a return to a streetscape dominated by cars.

The car-calmed zone will be a new tool to fend off a post-pandemic car comeback within Paris’ innermost ring of boulevards, a zone of around 14 square kilometres.

This area stretches east to west between the two squares that bookend the heart of the city — from the Place de la Bastille all the way to the Place de la Concorde — and include the city’s two central islands, the Marais district (already substantially pedestrianised) and much of the Left Bank’s Latin Quarter.

Not all of Paris’ busiest quarters would be included in the zone — the Champs Elysées, for example, would lie outside it, as would the major shopping district around the Garnier Opera House. But the lion’s share of Paris government buildings and cultural institutions will lie within its borders, along with a large portion of its stores and restaurants.

The city has also suggested it might extend the zone further, if the public consultation suggested there was an appetite to do so.

Vehicles entering this zone will be monitored by city officials, according to Paris Transit Commissioner David Belliard, with fines meted out to non-residents and those entering without permit.

Details on enforcement haven’t been shared; similar traffic-restriction programs, as in London, use hundreds of automated cameras. Meanwhile, new barriers and pedestrianisation schemes will also reduce the number of streets allowing access.

The zone is needed, the city says, because much of the traffic flowing around the Place de la Concorde consists of vehicles making trips that could easily be carried out by public transport. The city’s press release estimates that 70% of current through-journeys in the zone need not be carried out by car. The plan may slow any swing back to car use among Parisians as residents resume regular habits after the pandemic, in a city where, as of April 2021, public transit ridership still remained at just 60% of its pre-crisis levels

Elsewhere in Europe, other cities are also seeking to curb traffic. Oslo will start to phase out access for fossil-fueled vehicles in 2022, while London and Milan have employed congestion charges for cars driving into their centers for several years. Within France, the cities of Lille and Nantes already have low-speed limit, pedestrian-priority zones covering their downtowns.

But fans of these pollution-fighting edicts faced a setback in another European capital this week, when a Spanish court refused an appeal seeking to defend Madrid’s low-traffic zone, called Madrid Central. The largest and most ambitious measure of its kind to date in Europe, Madrid Central had been canceled in July 2020 because a court ruled that its creation had failed to offer clear public disclosure or provide the necessary economic assessment. The administration of Mayor José Luis Martínez-Almeida said it would not contest the ruling — understandably so, given that it was colleagues in the mayor’s own Popular Party who filed the initial complaints against the zone when they were in opposition. Under pressure to meet national requirements for emissions reduction, Madrid may still retain some form of traffic limits in its city center.

Madrid’s fate is still not one that Paris is likely to face for a while. Hidalgo’s progressive environmental and transportation policies have not always made her time in the public eye easy, but she has largely escaped political consequences for any pushback against them. Having been re-elected at the head of a left-leaning coalition that includes the French Green Party in June 2020, her administration in a fairly strong position to implement sweeping change. While this latest ban stands to mark a new milestone in the city’s car-free agenda, it’s unlikely to be the last.


Hyundai Staria MPV ready for pre-order ahead of launch

                PETALING JAYA: Hyundai's all-new luxury 7-seater MPV, the Staria Premium, which will debut in Malaysia soon, is positioned as Hyundai’s most luxurious Hyundai MPV targeting professionals and active urban families.

The Toyota Alphard/Vellfire rival is the first of Hyundai’s purpose-built vehicles that aims to redefine in-car travel experiences.

Featuring Hyundai’s new design language that is futuristic, the Staria Premium evokes the streamlined form of a spaceship.

Its sleek exterior is defined by a single stroke running from front to rear — inspired by the curve of light that illuminates the Earth’s horizon at sunrise when viewed from space.

Staria Premium’s front is embellished with horizontal daytime running lights (DRLs) and a positioning lamp on its front, both running across the width of the vehicle.

This is complemented by a bold, wide radiator grille with a unique pattern. Its clean silhouette is further accented by a pair of low-set headlamps. Hyundai uses the same body colour for all frontal parts to maximise the vehicle’s modern style.

It also embodies Hyundai’s "inside-out" design that emphasises interior spaciousness and usability.

Its cabin, which is inspired by the interior of a cruise ship, delivers an open atmosphere through its innovative design architecture. Like a cruise ship, the vehicle’s lower beltlines and panoramic windows aim for a spacious and pleasant environment for all passengers.

The overall cabin offers a luxurious experience that is more premium than any mass market MPV.

The simple interior layout focuses only on the essentials to provide more room and flexibility, such as the glove compartment in the first row passenger seat which has been moved forward to provide extra legroom.

The cargo space availability varies depending on how the seating configurations are arranged.

The two- and three-seater, optimised for business use, offers maximum cargo space of almost 5,000 litres.

The 7-seater Staria Premium that is set to be launched in Malaysia will be motivated by a diesel-powered 2.2CRDi engine.

The improved engine is mated with a eight-speed automatic transmission, delivering an estimated power output of 175hp and 431Nm of torque.

Its high-efficiency, air-cooled turbocharger has an improved compressor and turbine wheel performance for better low speed torque performance.

The Staria Premium is now open for booking at all Hyundai authorised showrooms. Interested parties can
also book online via Hyundai’s new online shopping platform, Cl!ck to Buy.


Pebble Beach is back on, but not all automakers are on board

                SAN FRANCISCO: For many car enthusiasts, attending the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance is a bucket-list occasion. Since 1950, the annual event in Carmel, Calif., has hosted the world’s most beautiful and expensive collectible cars for a week of lavish parties, blue-chip auctions, glamorous rallies, and exclusive high-roller meetings.

It was canceled last year because of the coronavirus pandemic, losing half of its routine $2 million-plus in sponsorships and ticket sales—not to mention the millions generated by the influx of tens of thousands of the world’s most avid car lovers to the Monterey Peninsula. But Sandra Button, the chairman of the Pebble, as longtimers call it, confirmed on May 12 that the show will indeed go on this year on its usual date, the third Sunday in August.

How many automakers come on board, however, remains to be seen.

Mercedes-Benz, for years one of the brands with the biggest presence, will reportedly not inhabit the circus-size white tent it has in previous years. Nor will it debut a significant concept car as it’s done for years with models such as the EQ Silver Arrow and Vision 6.

“At this point we’re actively reviewing the return of our in-person, brand-experience events, and it’s still premature to discuss details at this time,” a Pebble Beach spokesman says.

Rolls-Royce, another preeminent marque that has usually commandeered a multimillion-dollar estate on Spanish Bay for parties so clients could see their moored yachts from the garden, will not do so this year, a source close to the company says.

Representatives from McLaren and Lamborghini have indicated the brands will attend but with reduced footprints. “We are focusing on our customers this year,” rather than announcing big news or heavy brand building, says Roger Ormisher, a spokesman for McLaren.

Aston Martin will herald one global reveal, display two cars owned by company chairman Lawrence Stroll, and reveal “some Bond stuff,” according to a spokesman.

Porsche has said it’s pressing forward “with an abundance of caution.” Says spokesman Marcus Kabel: “We’re looking forward to returning, so long as circumstances allow us to do so.”

Ferrari will be based once again at Casa Ferrari on Fairway One at Pebble Beach. Also at Fairway One, concurrent with the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance on Sunday, the company will host the Ferrari Concorso, a dazzling array of select Ferraris that is open to all guests.

BMW—a longtime participant that has hosted meals, cocktail hours, concept debuts, and press announcements—didn’t respond to requests for comment about its plans by the time of this story’s publication.

The brand most eager to get back to normal is Rolls-Royce rival Bentley, which plans to attend “in full force,” according to a spokesman.

“During the past year, small events and digital discussions were appropriate, but people want, and need, real interactions again,” says Christophe Georges, the president and chief executive officer of Bentley Motors Inc.

“Monterey Car Week is an opportunity to welcome Bentley customers, to meet and collaborate with them. We share our plans for the future and welcome their reactions, and we look forward to doing so again this year.”

Worth the hype

The Pebble Beach Concours is one of several galas that dot the third week of August every year: A lobster-stuffed, champagne-soaked lawn party called The Quail Motorsports Gathering is held on the Friday prior to the main concours on the lawns of the Quail Lodge & Golf Club at the Peninsula Hotel; the Werks Reunion is slated for Aug 13; the Italiano Concourso will fall on Aug 14 in nearby Seaside; and the contrarian Concours d’Lemons—a tongue-in-cheek gathering of oddball and unloved cars—is slated for the same day, also in Seaside.

Insiders typically attend multiple events each day, driving between them in their own Bentleys, Aston Martins, and Lamborghinis, before capping the evening with associates and friends at dinner on Carmel’s Ocean Avenue.

“The concept lawn at the (Pebble Beach Golf Club) Lodge and the McCall’s Motorworks Revival at the Jet Center are a must-see—and of course, the Quail,” says Howard Leight, the owner of the Malibu Rocky Oaks Estate Vineyards, who attended Monterey Car Week for 30 years in a row until Covid-19 hit.

With the number of traditional auto shows continuing to dwindle and virtual debuts lacking the marketing muscle that helps drive sales for high-net-worth individuals, the Pebble has become the only big opportunity on the US car calendar for an elite automaker to flex its prestige.

“You do not save money by cutting back on experiences with a customer,” says Bentley’s Georges. “To do so would show a lack of respect for our guests. And we must provide the Bentley experience.”

Historically, about 20,000 people dressed to the nines trek to the Pebble Beach Golf Club (and pay US$500 each) for access to the climactic concours finale Sunday morning. There, total auction sales of classic Ferraris and Maseratis by the likes of Bonhams and Gooding & Co. routinely reach US$400 million.

But it’s the unveiling of futuristic concept cars and brand-new supercars for sale that bring in the high rollers that automakers of this caliber need to survive.

“Auto and luxury goods makers have signalled a very strong interest in being here—the demand is very strong,” says Pebble Beach chairman Button. “Nearly all of our previous partners are making plans to return, and we’re fielding a lot of interest from possible new partners.”

It costs roughly US$1 million for an OEM to “do” a traditional car show or Monterey Car Week, but the rate at which attendees are converted into buyers in Monterey is far higher. Traditional car shows claim conversion rates of less than 1%; at Pebble the rate is in the mid-double digits.

For automakers, Pebble Beach is a self-selecting proposition, Polestar spokesman John Paolo Canton told Bloomberg in 2018. Canton worked for Ducati and McLaren before he became head of communications for Volvo’s luxury subsidiary.

“Anybody who is going to fly from wherever, deal with a four-night-minimum, a brutally expensive hotel, as opposed to buying a US$10 ticket to a local auto show—you’re already dealing with the people who have the money and the vested interest in the cars,” Canton said. “It makes way more sense for premium automakers to go to Pebble.”

The biggest factor for the OEMs in deciding whether they can and will attend the festivities isn’t which executives in Europe have gotten their vaccines and can start international travel. (“The vaccine program is working well thus far, and we will incorporate recommended safety protocols at all events,” Georges says.)

Nor is it cost: The market prices of oysters and vodka are hardly prohibiting factors for companies that base their identities on no-limit opulence. Nonetheless, many hotels on the Peninsula are honouring 2019 rates, though spokesmen for the Inn at Spanish Bay, a host hotel for the event, and InterContinental’s Clement Monterey didn’t respond to requests for comment.

It helps that the main concours shows and all of the peripheral group drives and car rallies, such as the one McLaren will host for its most special owners, are outside activities. Organisers of the Quail say they’ll hold the event at a limited capacity, below the normal 5,000 tickets sold, whatever that ends up being.

“It just keeps changing month by month,” says spokeman Heather Buchanan. “We don’t know yet what will be our limitations and the protocols for distancing and mask usage, but we will be following those protocols.”

Button says Sunday’s main concours will be at 75% of normal capacity, though the standard 200 cars will be displayed on the grass. “If needed, we will increase the size of our show field to increase social distancing,” she says.

McLaren’s Ormisher said the company’s decision to not have its customary home base in a prominent spot along the Pebble Beach golf course has more to do with the house it previously used changing owners than anything else.

It all comes down to the matter of health and safety protocols during a week that traditionally capitalizes on private dinners in cozy club rooms and deals done in intimate confines over whiskey and cigars.

Such chummy activities are not exactly kosher yet, legally speaking, when less than half of the American public is vaccinated and suspicious variants of the virus are rearing their ugly heads.

Ultimately, an automaker’s decision about how much it can or cannot do officially at Pebble Beach may be made by lawyers.


Mercedes hybrid makes KL-Bangkok run

                Single tank challenge – take-two!

And this time around it’ll be done in a Mercedes-Benz E 300 BlueTEC Hybrid priced at RM338,888 (OTR including GST without insurance) that’ll be driven from Kuala Lumpur to Bangkok, Thailand.

In the past, we haven’t been too lucky when it comes to these types of fuel runs; in fact, we had the misadventure of being disqualified at the very start of our attempt.

Disheartened, we made the best of the situation – but still, the memory remains.

Seizing the opportunity to set things right, we went off for one of the longest ordeals we’ve ever experienced in an attempt to use the least amount of fuel possible over the course of three days.

To complicate matters, national pride was now at stake with our learned colleagues from Thailand joining in on the “fun” – just under 1,500km spread over the next three days.

No doubt we were all driving the same model, ours was the odd one out with a rear boot lid spoiler that adds some downforce and the Mecedes-Benz logo on the front grille which lights up when a door is opened.

Other than those two items, everything was to factory specification.

To reduce the tyres’ rolling resistance, their pressure was increased to roughly 44psi.

The higher pressure did result in a firmer ride but overall comfort wasn’t compromised.

Before we began our long journey, we were allowed to manage the settings within the car and we were hell-bent on ensuring that electrical drain from the 0.8kWh lithium-ion (Li-ion) battery was minimised by non-essential equipment.

That meant that both ambient lighting and the instrument cluster was set to the lowest brightness and the climate control temperature was set to 26 Celsius on the lowest speed, which gave us a slight trickle of air from the vents.

Under the hood lies a 2.1-litre turbodiesel married to the 7G-Tronic Plus seven-speed automatic transmission with 201bhp at 4,200rpm and a massive 500Nm of torque that’s available from 1,600 to 1,800rpm.

Additionally, the electric motor is capable of supplying up to 250Nm of torque when in Electric Vehicle
(EV) mode.

The strategies employed throughout the three days required a feather-light foot so that revs don’t climb past 2,000rpm and utmost vigilance to ensure that we maintained a fuel economy of about 4.0 litres per 100km.

In addition, where possible, using EV mode would help to drastically reduce fuel consumption, especially when moving off from standstill and maintaining that mode for as long as possible.

However, it has to be noted that while in EV mode, the E 300 hybrid can only get up to a maximum speed of 35kph and its accelerative properties are far from that of a Mercedes F1 car.

But maintaining EV mode would prove to be more difficult than we initially imagined, since a slight over-prod of the accelerator pedal may start up the engine, which meant that the throttle had to be feathered ever so delicately and stay in EV mode for as long as the battery allowed.

Ideally, we tried maintaining an average speed of 80kph or more that would allow the transmission to use seventh gear, but anything less than that and the transmission would drop to sixth.

As we wiled the miles away and the trees passing by like a slow flip of a book’s page, no one would have even imagined that two guys in a car would get overly excited about a down hill slope.

The only reason was that these hills were crucial in gaining more speed, momentum and the opportunity to engage sailing mode which allows the engine to shut down and allow the electric motor to take over.

But while in sailing mode, the electric motor can act like a generator, trying to recharge the battery, which feels like engine braking, but can be cancelled by pulling on the right paddle shifter.

But in order to be effective in going up and over hills, travelling at between 100kph and 110kph to start with would help tremendously - but getting up to that speed means going over a fair number of hills to begin with.

By using all these strategies, we were able to emerge victorious with an average fuel economy of 4.3l/100km after covering a total of 1,486km at an average speed of 64kph and a total drive time of 23 hours and 10 minutes.

And even at the end of it all, our car still had slightly more than a quarter of fuel left in the 80-litre tank, which leads us to believe that a Bangkok to Singapore road trip is possible in this hybrid.


Tesla Shooting Brake heading for London Motor Show

                LONDON: The world’s first Tesla-based production Shooting Brake is coming to the London Motor Show in May.

The conversion is based on the Model S 90D and is done by carbon fibre coachbuilder QWest.

The QWest Shooting Brake carries over the Model S’s sharp 0-100kph time of 2.8 seconds but is 12kg lighter because carbon fibre is used. Its visible carbon fibre on the tailgate, rear roof section and D pillar mark it out against the standard car while adding strength and reducing weight.

It’s 209 litres larger than the standard 90D, and QWest has strived to ensure an integrated and elegant design. The Norfolk-based company is famed for setting the benchmark for a modern connotation of a traditional coachbuilder, using only carbon fibre in its operations.

The show takes place from May 17-20.


Ford in Malaysia offers RM7K savings on Ranger variants

                KUALA LUMPUR: Sime Darby Auto ConneXion (SDAC), the sole distributor for Ford in Malaysia, is offering savings on the Ford Ranger WildTrak, XLT Plus and XL while stocks last.

Buyers of the Ranger WildTrak and XL get cash rebates of up to RM7,000 while XLT Plus buyers get savings of RM7,188.

"By offering these savings, we hope to lighten the financial load for customers,” said Syed Ahmad Muzri Syed Faiz, managing director, Sime Darby Auto ConneXion.

Customers can now request for a test drive vehicle to be delivered to their home or office, within a 10km radius of their chosen dealership.

This can be arranged by either contacting the Ford dealership nearest to them, submitting an online test drive request via the SDAC-Ford website or by messaging a Ford Digital Salesperson via WhatsApp at 0192041200.

The Digital Salesperson can answer queries including stock availability, loan financing options, road tax and vehicle registration fees as well as insurance options.

Buyers can also visit the Ford flagship facility at Sime Darby Motors City at Ara Damansara.

"Customers can rest assured that the necessary safety precautions are in place, including social distancing, temperature checks, supply of hand sanitiser dispensers and frequent sanitisation of high frequency touchpoints” said Jeffrey Gan, managing director for retail and distribution, Malaysia, Sime Darby Motors.

The Ford Ranger WildTrak has a 2.0L Bi-Turbo engine mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission, delivering 213ps and 500Nm of torque.

The  Ranger XLT Plus features the 2.0L Single-Turbo that produces 180ps and 420Nm of torque, and has convenience features such as keyless entry with push-start-button and the Easy Lift Tailgate.

The Ranger XL makes light work of any challenge, with a 1,000kg payload and 3,500kg towing capacity.


Porsche scoops two top awards in UK

                LONDON: Porsche is proving it is the benchmark sports car manufacturer once again, with the announcement today of two of its latest models being recognised as ‘best-in-class’.

At the UK Car of the Year Awards 2015, the Boxster GTS won ‘Best Open Top Car’ while the Macan took the trophy for ‘Best SUV’.

The Boxster was launched with a GTS version for the first time last year.

Joining other current Porsche models wearing the highly-revered ‘GTS’ nameplate – the Cayman, 911, Panamera and Cayenne – this benchmark roadster is even more dynamically focussed than other Boxster models.

Boasting 330 hp, the GTS is the most powerful Boxster to date.

 Porsche Macan.

“Simply the best all-rounder – fast, comfortable and useable every day,” said Paul Hudson, one of the expert judges, while another, Al Suttie, said: “sensational handling, performance and steering provided in a sleek drop-top so you can hear that amazing engine more clearly.”

The Macan, launched in 2014, entered a new market segment for Porsche – the premium compact SUV arena.

“I’ve never driven an SUV that handles better,” said David Motton, while fellow motor journalist Craig Thomas added: “…it combines all the comfort of a high-riding mid-size 4x4 with Porsche’s sports car-like driving characteristics.”

Launched in 2014, the UK Car of the Year Awards are judged by 27 of Britain’s most-read motoring journalists.

Each judge uses their expertise to pick out the top performer in 12 vehicle categories, before deciding the overall winner from their favourites in each class.


Tyre companies under anti-competition probe

                KUALA LUMPUR: The Malaysia Competition Commission (MyCC) has started to probe tyre and beverage companies in Malaysia for possible anti-competitive behaviour.

This follows a directive from Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Minister Datuk Saifuddin Nasution Ismail, who was informed of price increase notices issued by certain industry players in July and August 2018 prior to the implementation of Sales and Service Tax (SST) on Sept 1.

MyCC director of investigation and enforcement division, Iskandar Ismail, said Saifuddin instructed MyCC, together with the Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Ministry's (MDTCA) enforcement division, to conduct an investigation to determine whether these actions raised concerns under the relevant laws.

"The joint operation between the MyCC and the MDTCA will not be the last and we will continue to work with the ministry to enforce the law.

MyCC and the MDTCA jointly inspected several tyre companies, followed by MyCC's inspections on the related associations.

Iskandar said a separate ground inspection was also carried out by the MyCC against a beverage manufacturer following its action of issuing a price revision notice to supermarkets and hypermarkets in Malaysia.

The investigation by the MyCC on these parties concerns Section 4 of the Competition Act 2010, while the investigation by the MDTCA was pursuant to the Price Control and Anti-Profiteering Act 2011.

Notices have been issued to the parties to produce certain data and documents within a deadline set by both authorities in order to assist further investigations. For more information on the Act and the MyCC's activities, log on to www.mycc.gov.my.


Audi plans to cut water consumption in production in half by 2035

                INGOLSTADT: Audi says it plans to keep its own water consumption to a minimum and stop using drinking water in vehicle production in the future.

Its target is to cut water consumption in production in half by 2035

To this end, Audi is implementing efficient processes and closed water cycles, and increasing the use of rainwater. In the long term, Audi plans to implement closed water cycles at all production locations.

Drinking water is a valuable and scarce resource: 2.2 billion people worldwide do not have regular access to clean water.

The United Nations estimates that the demand for drinking water may increase by 55 percent by 2050.

Water is also essential in automotive production, for example in the paint shop or for leak tests.

In order to prioritise water conservation measures in a targeted manner, Audi uses a site-specific water value that puts the water withdrawal at the locations in relation to regional availability.

Taking the regional circumstances into account allows measures to be implemented in areas where water is particularly valuable. This way, the ecologically weighted water consumption in production is to be reduced from the current average of around 3.75 cubic meters to around 1.75 cubic meters per produced car by 2035.

Audi México is a pioneer when it comes to the economic use of water as a resource.

The plant is the first production site worldwide to produce vehicles without any wastewater and has been doing so since 2018.

A biological treatment facility with a downstream ultrafiltration and reverse osmosis system collects the wastewater generated in production, purifies it, and feeds large quantities back into the plant’s water cycle.

The location uses the treated water as service water, reuses it in production, or uses it to water the green spaces on the plant premises, for example.

At the Neckarsulm site, a closed water cycle is to be established between the plant and the neighbouring municipal treatment facility of the Unteres Sulmtal wastewater association.

Before the cycle and the associated construction of a new water supply facility can start, Audi is testing the procedure with a pilot facility.

If the tests are successful, construction of the new water supply facility is to start in 2022, and the plant is to close this water cycle from 2025.

A new service water supply center has been in use at the Ingolstadt site since 2019. Together with the previous treatment system, roughly half of the wastewater generated at the location can be fed into a circuit where it is treated and prepared for reuse.

Audi also uses rainwater retention basins at multiple sites in order to cover its own water demand in the most resource-saving way possible. They include Audi México and its base here.

The use of rainwater is also to be increased at the other locations over the next few years.


Video game developers roped in for autonomous tech

                LONDON: Oxbotica, a global leader in autonomous vehicle software, is employing world-leading video game developers who have worked on some of the highest-rated titles of the last decade to create the autonomous software for the vehicles of the future.

The techniques behind animation technology used in the development of big blockbuster movies are also being harnessed by Oxbotica, while a video game engine, not dissimilar to those behind Fortnite and Call of Duty, is helping run the company’s virtual test programme.

Simulation is one of the key enablers for Oxbotica's autonomous software stack and its goal of Universal Autonomy, allowing engineers to run virtual testing in an infinite number of scenarios; varying environmental conditions, traffic congestion, and modelling unpredictable pedestrian behaviour or scenarios which can’t easily be recreated in the real world.

Software changes can then be played back through these simulations in a fraction of the time required for live testing, allowing development to happen quickly, safely and at scale.

Simulated scenarios can be run all day, every day, to ensure our software is thoroughly tested before being deployed to the fleet – whether that’s on-road, off-road, down a mine or around an airport.

“There is a lot of commonality between developing a chart-topping game and autonomous software, the most valuable being robust coding principles and a focus on CPU efficiency. We are able to write new code, debug and test in real-time without sacrificing robustness or safety," said Todd Gibbs  who was the first game developer to move to Oxbotica.

Oxbotica’s modular software stack twins simulation testing with live on-road trials, conducted in London and Oxford, to build a full autonomy ecosystem that can be deployed at scale, anytime, and in any place.


Jaguar XF Saloon and Sportbrake get fancy new trim option

                LONDON: Jaguar this week announced that the latest XF Saloon and XF Sportbrake are both available in a limited edition trim package, the Chequered Flag edition, that gives the models handsome cosmetic upgrades and your choice of engine.

The exterior, which can be painted in black, gray, or white, has been redesigned to feature side vent badging, a new set of Gloss Black alloy wheels, body-coloured side sills, and sportier-styled bumpers.

The interior, too, received a collection of enhancements including an R-Sport full-leather interior upgrade with your choice of black-on-black or red-on-black colour options, a dark aluminum instrument panel and, of course, Chequered Flag treadplates.

A new Smartphone Pack that supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto comes standard on each model, as well as a couple extra features including Navigation Pro and other online services like Share ETA.

As for the engines available, the petrol options include 250PS or 200 PS Ingenium 2.0-litre four-cylinder engines with rear-wheel drive (RWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD), and the diesel options include a 180PS Ingenium 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine with RWD and AWD, a 240PS Ingenium 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine with AWD, and a 300PS 3.0-litre V6 twin turbocharged engine with RWD.

The Chequered Flag XF Saloon starts at £34,950 (RM188,000) in the UK while the XF Sportbrake begins at £37,390 (RM201,000).


Nissan sales fell in Asia and Oceania

                BANGKOK: Nissan has reported a 20.2% year-on-year drop in vehicle sales to 257,110 units in 2014 for the Asia and Oceania region.

The sales plunge was largely due to Thailand, where sales fell by almost 40% to 59,220 units.

This reflected the poor performance or 33.7% drop in auto sales in Thailand last year, due to political issues, the end of excise rebates for first car buyers, and tighter loan approvals.

Also, in Malaysia, Nissan sales in 2014 fell by 22.3% to 43,210 units.

A statement from Nissan said sales in Malaysia was affected by the short supply of the Almera before a minor model change.

It should be noted that Nissan’s Asia and Oceania region does not include Japan, mainland China and India.

Meanwhile, Nissan noted that December 2014 highlights included steadily increasing NP300 Navara sales in Thailand and good response to the newly launched X-Trail with 1,900 bookings in six weeks.

The Datsun Go and Go+ were well accepted in Indonesia with more than 2,670 units sold, accounting for 17% of the market share for December in the low-cost, green car (LCGC) segment.

Both Datsun models also set best record with almost 3,000 bookings for December 2014 since their launches.

Korea and New Zealand set best December sales records of 860 units and 550 units respectively, with both driven by the all-new Qashqai, while Vietnam reported an all-time best monthly sales record of 360 units.


Traffic builds up on Johor Causeway after PM announces movement control order

The view from the Woodlands checkpoint towards Johor, as seen on the Onemotoring website.
JOHOR BARU: Traffic on the Johor Causeway started to build up an hour after Malaysia imposed a movement control order following the rise in Covid-19 cases in the country.

Footage of the Johor Causeway on Singapore-based website Onemotoring as of 11.28pm today, showed that the jam has started to build towards the Woodlands checkpoint in Singapore. It only cleared more than an hour later.

However traffic was normal at the Second Link.

Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin had earlier announced that the entire country would be on a movement control order starting from March 18 until 31.

However, he did not specify if this would apply to the 250,000 to 300,000 people mainly Malaysians who commute between both countries daily.

A Singaporean motorist known as Tan said that the Johor Causeway was quite empty these days, especially after many Singaporeans started staying back in the island republic.

"But after the Prime Minister's speech, a lot of people are worried about a Malaysian government lockdown or restriction which has caused widespread panic," he said when contacted.

He hoped that the Malaysian government would give a clearer picture as Singapore has not imposed such a stand to stop daily commuters.


Govt wants all new cars to have ESC system by 2018

                SEPANG: All new cars must be equipped with the Electronic Stability Control (ESC) system from June 1, 2018, said Transport Minister Datuk Seri Liow Tiong Lai.

He said that studies have shown that the ESC system can reduce deaths by 40% while also reducing the risk of collisions.

"It is also the most cost-effective life saving device at present, with positive results from the EU, the US, Canada, Turkey, Australia and more," he said.

 ESC components from Bosch.

Liow was speaking at the Stop the Crash event at the Sepang International Circuit on Tuesday afternoon.

He added that the Government is also studying the eCall system, which is to be implemented in January 2019.

It will automatically notify emergency services with accurate crash information when an accident takes place.


VW and Mercedes-Benz leading in connected car innovation,  says study

                MUNICH: Volkswagen remains the most innovative company in the connected car sector, ahead of Mercedes-Benz and Tesla, while BMW is falling behind, according to new industry research into automotive innovation.

Research led by car industry analyst Stefan Bratzel published late in August ranks French groups Stellantis and Renault and the Japanese Nissan Group as very poor in connected car technology.

Germany's CAM Institute for mobility research estimates that from 2030 onwards, the automotive industry will be able to generate sales of almost €1,000 (RM4,457) per vehicle per year through recurring payments for digital services.

Worldwide, the market volume would then be over €200 billion (RM891bil).

"The promise of these data- and software-driven services is a particularly good return on investment in the future," says Bratzel.

To achieve this, however, manufacturers still have to "significantly increase their competences in these future fields," he cautioned.

"This also requires new collaborations with Big Data players like Alphabet, Apple as well as Chinese digital companies like Tencent and Baidu, which in turn want to capture parts of the connected services market."

The institute had compared 336 innovations and services from 28 car companies in connectivity, interfaces, autonomous driving and services in 2021.

As prominent examples of innovation, researchers noted the digital twin of the chassis in the Porsche Taycan, bidirectional charging in the VW ID.3 and Tesla's fast charging network and novel games.

The study also counts US carmakers Ford and General Motors among the top performers. In a comparison of countries, Germany continues to lead with 30% of global innovation power in the automotive sector, but the lead is shrinking.

"China's manufacturers have been steadily producing more innovations for several years, but the US is also catching up again after a period of weakness," says Bratzel.


Four students nabbed for throwing stones at vehicles on highway

                KANGAR: Police have detained four students who were caught red-handed throwing stones at vehicles travelling on the Changlun-Kuala Perlis expressway near here.

"These youths have been throwing stones at vehicles since five months ago," said Perlis police chief SAC Shafei Ismail, adding that they had caused thousands of ringgit in damage to vehicle owners.

"Six reports have been lodged since November and the latest police report was on Dec 1," he said.

He said police began observing the stretch two weeks ago.

"They were arrested when one of them threw stones at policemen in disguise," he said.

He said the four, aged between 15 and 17, were arrested on Thursday afternoon and two of them tested positive for syabu.

"The two youths who tested positive of syabu admitted to throwing stones at vehicles at Km13.3 and Km16 of the Changlun-Kuala Perlis expressway," he said.

"They would hide on overhead bridges and throw stones at vehicles below.

"After hitting a car, they would flee the scene in motorcycles," he said, adding that they turned the illegal act into a competition of sorts.

He said they were looking for two to three more suspects involved in the case.

The youths have been remanded for four days until Dec 14 to facilitate investigations of the case under Section 427 of the Penal Code for causing mischief.


Govt clarifies: Fuel price policy to remain unchanged despite removing ceiling price

                PUTRAJAYA: There is no change in policy on how retail fuel prices are determined, despite the government revoking a clause for the ceiling price of RON95 and diesel.

Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Minister Datuk Alexander Nanta Linggi said that automatic pricing mechanism is being used to determine the prices of refined products.

He said since March 30,2017, the prices of petrol and diesel in the county is determined on a weekly basis.

"The ministry enforces these (prices) through a gazette on price control and anti-profiteering (determination of maximum retail price for petrol and diesel) under the Price Control and Anti-Profiteering Act 2011.

"The reason this is gazetted is to enforce control in the retail price of petrol and diesel that is determined by the Finance Ministry," said the minister today.

However, beginning Feb 29 this year, the ministry changed the mechanism for the enforcement of the price control for the retail price of petrol and diesel.

The new mechanism comes under Regulation 12A of the Supply Control Regulations of the Supply Control Act 1961.

"The change in the mechanism is aimed to increase the effectiveness in enforcement and monitoring by the ministry if there is a violation of the Act," he said.

Nanta said in the interest of the public, the ministry is committed to ensuring that oil companies and petrol station operators comply with the prices set by the Finance Ministry.

"The government will continue to monitor the effects of changes in the price of crude oil. We will also take appropriate measures to ensure the welfare and wellbeing of the people will be looked after," he said.

The Federal Gazette published on June 3 no longer contains a clause for setting the ceiling price for petrol and diesel.

This comes after the government revoked a clause for the ceiling price of RON95 and diesel.

The ceiling price for petrol and diesel was introduced by the then Pakatan Harapan administration.

The then-Pakatan government had capped the price of RON95 and diesel prices at RM2.08 and RM2.18 respectively.


JPJ targets RM1.5mil for ‘KES’ plate series

File pic of a JPJ employee posting names of successful bidders in a licence plate series sale.
PETALING JAYA: The Kedah Road Transport Department (JPJ) is aiming to get RM1.5mil in bids for the “KES” series vehicle registration numbers, Harian Metro reported.

State JPJ director Ismasuhaimi Shariff said bidding for the registration numbers KES 1 to KES 9999 opened on Monday and will close at midnight on April 15.

He expressed confidence in achieving the RM1.5mil target based on the amount received from previous registration number series, namely KEN (RM4.13mil), KEE (RM1.87mil) and KER (RM1.16mil).


Mercedes-Benz EQA 250 electric vehicle arrives from RM278,000

                KUALA LUMPUR: Mercedes-Benz Malaysia (MBM) has kicked started its electric mobility journey with its first electric vehicle (EV) - the EQA 250 AMG Line - with deliveries to begin next month.

Fully-imported from Germany, the EQA 250 in AMG Line trim, comes with on-the-road without insurance price of RM 278,201.

 Jopp (left) and Sagree at the launch.

The EQA 250 compact sports utility vehicle (SUV) is powered by an electric motor delivering 190hp and 370Nm of torque to the front wheels.

The EQA 250 can accelerate from 0-100kph in 8.9 seconds and a top speed of 160kph.

Its high voltage lithium ion battery comes with an usable content of 66.5kWh and promises a driving range from 402km to 429km.

Energy consumption is rated at 17.6kWh/100km.

The battery, which is located under the floor of the vehicle, can be charged through a CCS port from 10% to 100% with 11kW AC in 5 hours 45 minutes, while fast charging with 100kW DC completes the task in 32 minutes.

Sharing key underpinnings and styling with the conventional GLA model, the EQA 250 features a black panel radiator grille with central star that is the identity of Mercedes-EQ sub-brand.

Another distinctive design feature of the Mercedes-Benz's EV line-up is the continuous light strip at front and rear.

Featuring full-LED head and tail lights, the EQA 250 which had a Cd values of 0.28, also gets specially optimised 19-inch Aero wheels and adapted front and rear wheel spoilers.

The EQA 250 also comes with a standard heat pump as part of its sophisticated thermal management system to maximise battery efficiency by keeping the temperature at optimal range.

The EQA 250 also features an acoustic presence indicator that generates specific Mercedes-Benz sounds outside of the vehicle up to a speed of 20kph to warn pedestrians and cyclists.

Features include MBUX multimedia system, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, widescreen cockpit display, Touchpad without Controller, Driving Assistance Package, Active Distance Assist Distronic, Dynamic Select, sports seats and comfort suspension among others.

The EQA 250 comes with the standard four years unlimited Mercedes-Benz Warranty, while the high-voltage battery gets an eight years or 160,000km warranty, whichever comes first.

Customers who opt to have the wallbox installed will receive a two-year warranty by the manufacturer.

To further encourage the adoption of EVs, MBM signed an MoU with Petronas Dagangan Bhd (PDB) last November to install five high speed chargers, branded as ENERGISE by PETRONAS, along the entire North-South Expressway and part of the East- Coast Expressway as the first step.

MBM also plans to install 13 new DC fast chargers in strategic dealer locations nationwide this year where EQ customers can use at no cost until the end of 2023.

MBM president and CEO Sagree Sardien said the launch of the EQA is an important milestone as it showed the company's commitment to “lead in electric” while utilising a holistic well-rounded approach towards a sustainable tomorrow.

She said the company would be introducing more EV models and variants, while exploring the possibility of assembling EVs locally.

“As we gear up to implement our EV readiness and sustainability efforts, it is our top priority to kickstart this journey towards an electric future by working with the right partners to achieve future mobility.

Through our continuous partnership with Petronas and our CSR outreach programmes, education will play a vital role in making this future a reality,” Sagree said.

PDB managing director and CEO Azrul Osman Rani: “Sustainability is at the core of everything that we do, and we are excited to extend our expertise with our long-standing partner, Mercedes-Benz to build a holistic EV infrastructure in Malaysia.”

Meanwhile, MBM vice-president of sales and marketing Michael Jopp said the entry-level EQA 250 is still packed with seamless connectivity, clear design and advanced technology.

 EQA 250 powertrain.

“The EQA is progressive and intuitive and offers customers electrification in the compact segment. The EQA is an important vehicle, both globally and locally as we embark on our journey towards an all-electric future,” he said.

Jopp also said MBM service centres were fully equipped to service EVs.

He said MBM technicians are prepared for servicing EVs since they had familiarised themselves with the high voltage system of plug-in hybrid electric vehicles and had undergone upgrading training.


MAN delivers first batch of new MAN Truck Generation with Euro V engines

                SERENDAH: MAN Truck & Bus (M) Sdn Bhd (MAN Malaysia) recently handed over the first batch of its New MAN Truck Generation vehicles to the pioneer group of customers at a celebration party at its assembly plant at Serendah, Selangor.

Seven units of the New MAN Truck Generation, each powered by low emission engines that meet Euro V standards, were handed over to six transport companies – two of whom are first-time MAN Truck customers.

The New MAN Truck Generation with Euro V engines as standard is an all-new product range that leads the way in driver orientation, fuel efficiency, assistance systems, digital networking and above all, sustainability.

LTS Distribution (M) Sdn Bhd, part of the Penang-based Lee Ting San Group that is one of the largest trucking companies in Malaysia, received its 360hp New MAN TGS 4X2 that would be used for short haul transportation trips.

Sim Aik Chan Trading Sdn Bhd was the proud owner of a 540hp New MAN TGS 6X4, equipped with a robust chassis and powerful yet economical engine, to that is the latest member of the company's fleet would be more than capable of handling the heavy-duty task of transporting construction material all over the country.

Global integrated logistics solution provider Sea Hawk Global Lines Sdn Bhd too delivery of two units – the 540hp New MAN TGX 6X4 flagship model that was the star attraction at the recent Malaysia Commercial Vehicle Expo (MCVE) 2022, and a 440hp MAN TGS 6X2.

With their fuel efficient ‘green’ engines, both the New MAN Trucks would help Sea Hawk expand its transportation services to the oil and gas sector where Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) compliance is mandatory.

First-time MAN customer, container specialist Timur Permai Haulage Sdn Bhd, received their preferred choice of a 440hp New MAN TGS 6X2 as it was the perfect solution for the company’s container haulage requirements.

Another first-time MAN customer, Rani Transport Sdn Bhd, took delivery of a 360hp New MAN TGS 4X2 with ADR (Agreement Concerning the International Carriage of Dangerous Goods by Road) specifications that is ideal for transporting chemicals to hard to access water treatment plants around the country.

Meanwhile, total logistic solution provider Globonus Sdn Bhd also opted for an ADR specification New MAN TGS 6X2 with 440hp that meets its requirements as a key vendor to a multinational oil and gas company.

At the event, MAN Malaysia managing director Andrew O’Brooks thanked the customers for joining the sustainability journey with MAN.

 O'Brooks.

“In November 2021, MAN became the first truck manufacturer in Malaysia to offer Euro V engines as standard across its entire product portfolio. It was a bold move as we were challenging Malaysian transporters to join the journey and take the lead in reducing carbon emissions.

“To our delight, they took up the challenge. Market response has been overwhelming. This clearly demonstrates that transporters in Malaysia are more than willing to do their part as the nation aims for carbon neutral status by 2050.

“They know that with our New MAN Truck Generation, they can attain both profitability and sustainability,” he said.

For details on the New MAN Truck Generation, visit www.man.com.my.


Ford makes F-150 Raptor even more off-road capable

                DETROIT: Ford's F-150 Raptor is already most people's idea of the ultimate high-performance off-road pickup truck from the factory.

No manufacturer or model can afford to stand still though, so the Blue Oval is making it even better for the 2019 model year with upgrades focusing on some key components that make the Raptor a true benchmark for off-road trucks.

There's already more than enough power and torque on tap under the bonnet of the mighty Ford pickup, but delivering the ultimate high-performance off-road truck is about much more than just engine power, it also has a lot to do with the suspension.

And the Raptor's suspension upgrades for the 2019 model year make it even more capable of clawing away at the terrain than it is already.

The main upgrade is the addition of class-exclusive FOX 3.0 Internal Bypass shocks with Live Valve technology, which can adapt themselves to the terrain in real-time to actively maximise handling, comfort, and bottom-out resistance.

The 2019 Raptor will also boast New Trail Control, which is a system similar to cruise control for low-speed, rugged terrain that automatically adjusts to send power and braking to individual wheels so drivers can stay focused on the important job of steering. And to keep you in your seat when navigating the kind of terrain the Raptor is designed to handle there are also some all-new Recaro seats.

READ MORE:Ford Ranger Raptor debuts in Bangkok at RM210K

Hermann Salenbauch, the global director of Ford Performance vehicle programmes says of the truck: "Raptor's success is rooted in its incredible suspension, superb vehicle control and the confidence the truck instills in its owners. Upgrades to the 2019 F-150 Raptor have improved all three to new levels that the competition will have to benchmark – again.

By automatically varying compression rates, Raptor can now make the most of its suspension travel of 13 inches at the front and 13.9 inches at the rear. The 2019 Raptor is not just more capable off-road. It's smarter."

The already-aggressive exterior gains even more intensity for 2019 thanks to a number of eye-catching new colours that include Ford Performance Blue, Velocity Blue and Agate Black, and we'll be seeing them on the upgraded 2019 F-150 Raptor when it goes on sale later this year.


Pininfarina strengthens management team, teases new limited-edition car

                TURIN: Marking its fifth anniversary, Italian luxury carmaker Automobili Pininfarina strengthens its management team with the appointment of a new chief technical officer (CTO) and chief operating officer (COO).

Alongside presenting its new management team appointed by CEO Paolo Dellachà, it has confirmed plans to launch an exclusive new limited-edition car designed for collectors this summer. The new supercar is set to be the first in a series of new cars.

“The fifth anniversary of Automobili Pininfarina is a moment to celebrate the remarkable achievements of the diverse group of experts we have brought together at our European bases in Cambiano and Munich," said Dellachà.

“After bringing Battista to life and breaking production car world records, it is the first electric hyper GT in the hands of clients around the world, across Europe, the USA and now Canada," he added.

Automobili Pininfarina now employs 116 people across its sites in Cambiano, Italy and Munich, Germany.

The Battista pure-electric hyper GT entered series production in the summer of 2022, with deliveries to clients worldwide beginning in the same year.

In February this year, the Battista broke a series of speed records at India’s Natrax facility, including achieving an astonishing world record quarter mile sprint time of just 8.55 seconds.

Andrea Crespi is promoted to the position of CTO with Andrea Novello promoted into role of COO.

Crespi was elevated from his role as ePowertrain and High Voltage Systems Director at Automobili Pininfarina.

Crespi is highly experienced in electrification architectures and electric vehicle design for luxury brands, formerly holding senior positions at Aston Martin and Maserati before joining Automobili Pininfarina in 2018.

Crespi has played a leading role in delivering the record-breaking performance of Battista from its advanced EV architecture and will now lead technical development of all future luxury cars from Automobili Pininfarina.

Crespi said: “This is an incredibly exciting moment of evolution for Automobili Pininfarina, as we enhance our technical vision and prepare to broaden our portfolio of luxury electric vehicles.”

Meanwhile, Novello was promoted from his role as Production Director.

Novello is a highly experienced engineer in luxury vehicle and body development and has previously held positions at Maserati and Pininfarina S.p.A before joining the Automobili Pininfarina family in its first year, in 2018.

Novello said: “I have a deep personal connection with the Pininfarina brand through my previous work in Cambiano and through family members that worked in this famous facility before me. I consider it my second home!"

"My team and I are proud to be crafting an exceptional luxury car in Battista today, and we are ready to bring our incredible brand and the next in a series of incredible pure-electric vehicles to our customers this year.”

The two new appointments join existing management team members Dave Amantea (Chief Design Officer), Dan Connell (Chief Brand Officer) and Gösta Henning (Chief Sales Officer).


Ducati Streetfighter V4 Lamborghini unveiled

                SAN MARINO: The new Ducati Streetfighter V4 Lamborghini, inspired by the Huracán STO1 super sports car, was unveiled to the public at the San Marino Grand Prix at the Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli.

The bike is the second collaborative project between the two brands, ambassadors of Made in Italy, which in 2020 gave birth to the Ducati Diavel 1260 Lamborghini, inspired by the Sián.

The most stunning Ducati Streetfighter V4 produced is a motorcycle that perfectly embodies the values of style, sportiness, and exclusivity shared by Ducati and Lamborghini, the two brands of excellence that have helped write the history of Italy’s “Motor Valley” and that have renewed and expanded their collaboration with this project.

The result is a combination of technology, performance and beauty to deeply inspire enthusiasts from the very first look.

Applying the well-known “Fight Formula” to the technical base of the Panigale V4 S 2023 and integrating elements and stylistic features that are unmistakably Lamborghini, Ducati has created an exclusive all-new model within its range.

The bike is produced in a numbered limited series of 630 units and reinterprets in a Ducati key the concepts of the Huracán STO, integrating technical and stylistic elements typical of Lamborghini DNA, including the exclusive livery in green and orange.

The Ducati Style Center, in collaboration with Lamborghini’s Centro Stile, redesigned the superstructures of this special bike, drawing inspiration from the Huracán STO.

It features specially-made forged wheels enhanced by the titanium clamping nut on the rear; the front fender design is inspired by the air ducts integrated in the Huracán STO’s “cofango”; the toe cap, radiator cover, wings, tank cover and tail are all made of carbon fibre, the same used for the super sports cars from Sant’Agata Bolognese.

The livery features the STO logo and the number 63, which refers to the year 1963 in which Lamborghini was founded.

This number, multiplied by ten, gives the 630 units to be produced by Ducati, each accompanied by a certificate of authenticity.

The colors used for the bike are exactly the same as those used for the Huracán STO, with a base in “Verde Citrea” (green) and contrasting parts in “Arancio Dac” (orange).

The model name and the progressive number are shown on a metal plate inserted in the central tank cover and an aluminum insert on the ignition key.

There are also grille extractors and air intakes on the tank cover, toe cap and tail piece that explicitly echo the Huracán STO’s rear brake cooling ducts; the vents on the car’s front fenders; and the hood extraction vents.

The bike’s seat is also inspired by the Huracán STO’s seat finish with accents matching the superstructure.

At the heart of the Ducati Streetfighter V4 Lamborghini is the 1,103cc Desmosedici Stradale engine with power of 208hp with a dry clutch, as on the Ducati MotoGP and Superbike models.

In addition to the 630 examples of Ducati Streetfighter V4 Lamborghini, Ducati will offer an even more exclusive series dedicated to 63 Lamborghini customers who, thanks to the Ducati Style Center, will be able to create unique examples by customising their Ducati Streetfighter V4 Lamborghini with livery and rims in the same color as their car, completing the bike through Ducati’s Speciale Clienti programme.

It will then be possible to choose the brake calliper colors and seat details from those included in the Huracán STO palettes: yellow, red, black and California orange, in addition to the standard color scheme.

Owners of the Ducati Streetfighter V4 Lamborghini will be able to complete their look with a helmet, jacket and limited-edition bike leathers, in colorways reflecting their Ducati bike’s specification.


Hyundai Santa Fe R 2.2 litre CRDi turbodiesel: Big on comfort

                The all-new Santa Fe turbodiesel variant has upped its game giving its occupants more room and more reason to be in it with its striking looks.

The all-new fourth generation Hyundai Santa Fe R 2.2 litre CRDi turbodiesel is a seven-seater with the looks, power and safety features to entice your hard-earned money from the competition.

The review unit we tested is the top specced Premium variant priced at RM213,888. It is also available in the Executive variant for RM193,888.

Read more: Off the beaten path with the Santa Fe

All prices are on-the-road without insurance.

While it is a substantial price difference between the two variants at RM20,000, Hyundai adds more equipment in the Premium variant and some extra safety features well.

This seven-seater SUV is built for the family in mind and with that, let's have a look at what's on offer.

Features

The Premium turbodiesel SUV comes with more enticing kit compared to the Executive such as the free-standing 7inch display for the audio system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a 7-inch Supervision TFT LCD instrument cluster, wireless phone charger, an 8-way power seat for the front passenger, power tailgate, rain sensor, bi-function LED projection, LED lamps, dynamic bending light, bigger 19-inch wheels and safety systems such as rear cross traffic collision warning, blind-spot collision warning and the innovative rear occupant alert.

The latter has been developed by Hyundai to monitor the rear seats and prevent children as well as pets from being left behind or forgotten and from locking themselves in.

It also has the standard safety features including six airbags, back warning camera and parking distance warning for the front and rear.

As for the upholstery, the Premium variant allows you to choose between black or burgundy leather. For the ultimate driving position, the driver gets a 12-way power seat.

Rear passengers get to stretch their legs as there is copious amounts of legroom in the Santa Fe with a wheelbase measuring 2,765mm. An increase of 65mm over its predecessor.

Read more: 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe is coming

Getting in to the third row is also convenient with a one-touch tilt and slide of the second row seats. And if its space you are after, folding the third row gets you 547 litres and if that is not enough, you can also fold the second row for whopping 1,625 litres.

One can also configure the space in the rear as the second row is split 60:40, so with the third row folded, one can leave a single seat up at 40% or double seat at 60%.

Looks

This is a bold looking SUV with creases along the body and large wheel arches that it gives it the right amount of character and comes out looking refined. The 19inch wheels fills out the wheel arches nicely without leaving too much of gap.

The front fascia is especially eye-catching with the large radiator grille and the wide chrome trim above it. The LED Daytime Running Lights (DRL) at the sides is slim and sleek while right below it is the tall, pentagonal LED Headlamp unit.

On the top is the roofrails which gives a robust presence and the rear is complimented with the boomerang-shaped wraparound tail-lights and dual tailpipes for that sporty effect.

Drive

This turbodiesel generates 193PS at 3,800rpm and a powerful 440Nm from as low as 1,750rpm to 2,750rpm which makes it really torque-y.

On top of it it comes with an eight-speed automatic gearbox and has Hyundai’s HTRAC variable all-wheel drive system which delivers 35% to 50% of power to the rear-wheels making this a formidable vehicle on and off-road.

It also has a driver selector mode for Comfort, ECO or Sport depending if you want stable driving in comfort, more efficient fuel economy in ECO and an exciting drive when you switch to Sport.
There is also a Smart function which recognises your driving style and switches modes automatically.

I found myself using Comfort and ECO with the Smart function around the city and urban areas and didn't really need to switch to Sport because if I wanted a boost, I just stepped on the accelerator and the early torque kicks in and with the ample horsepower, the Santa Fe just lets loose.

Its straight line acceleration is steady and for a big SUV it handles really well, hugging bends and turns which makes one very confident behind the wheel.

The all-wheel drive system is probably responsible for this.

The cabin is also quiet with minimum noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) although you can hear the clatter of the diesel engine when idle but it is not too obvious or distracting. Most importantly, it is a comfortable and cosy interior well-suited for the whole family.

In conclusion, the Santa Fe turbodiesel is a good looking, well-equipped SUV which offers space and seats and effortless driving on the road and even offers a sense of adventure by being able to go off the beaten path. It is only the price tag which one has to contend with being over RM200K.

SPECIFICATIONSHyundai Santa Fe R 2.2 CRDi PremiumEngine: 2,199cc R CRDi turbodiesel

Maximum power: 193PS at 3,800rpm

Maximum torque: 440Nm from 1,750rpm to 2,750rpm

Transmission: Eight-speed automatic and HTRAC variable all-wheel drive system

Features: Keyless entry, push-button start, cruise control, dual-zone climate control with ioniser, a 10-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, black leather upholstery, a freestanding seven-inch infotainment touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity and a reverse camera, adaptive LED headlights, LED tail lights, LED fog lights, 19-inch alloys, leather dashboard trim, an eight-way powered passenger seat, a seven-inch instrument display, auto-dimming rear-view mirror and powered tailgate

Safety features: Six airbags, ABS with EBD and brake assist, vehicle stability management, hill-start assist control, downhill brake control and ISOFIX second-row child seat anchors, blind spot monitoring with rear cross traffic alert and Rear Occupant Alert

Price: RM213,888 (on-the-road without insurance)


World premiere of smart #3 at Auto Shanghai 2023

                SHANGHAI: In a world premiere at Auto Shanghai 2023, the Mercedes-Benz global design team unveiled the smart #3, the iconic brand’s first-ever sports utility coupé.

The smart #3 has a premium and sporty look, as it shares the same design philosophy as the smart #1.

The first model in the new product range, the smart #1, has made its European market debut and is set to arrive in Britain in summer this year.

"As an all-electric pioneer, smart is committed to uncompromising quality of experience and interactions. Therefore, smart will keep on expanding its product family to offer a variety of cars that optimally suit different customer groups and lifestyles,” said Dirk Adelmann, CEO of smart Europe.

At the front, the smart #3 has slimmed down CyberSparks LED headlights that are paired with a distinctive “shark nose” and A-shape wide grill.

On the sides, the prominent two-tone roof meets the smooth, continuous e-line that connects the A-pillar and C-pillar, creating an elegant sporty silhouette.

In the interior, the sculpted dashboard flows seamlessly into a high console, housing the central cockpit, a 12.8-inch elevated central screen.
Thanks to a longer wheelbase, the smart #3 offers an even more spacious interior.

Integrated headrests additionally increase the driving comfort, and the infotainment system has a 13-speaker Beats sound system.

The smart #3 will come in new colours, including a vibrant Photon Orange Metallic and a futuristic Electric Blue Matte exterior as well as a new Vibrant Brown interior variant.

The smart #3 will be presented to the European audience at IAA Mobility 2023 Munich, Germany in September 2023, before launching in the respective European markets early next year.


Tonale: Alfa Romeo's first new car in years is a high-tech SUV hybrid

                BERLIN: Things have been quiet at Alfa Romeo for quite some time now, but now the Italian subsidiary of the automotive giant Stellantis is now showing signs of life once again.

Starting in mid-2022, Alfa Romeo wants to step up to rival SUVs like the VW Tiguan, BMW X1 and Ford Kuga with the Tonale, the company's first new model this decade and first plug-in hybrid ever.

A compact off-roader named after a pass in Italy's Trentino Alps, the Tonale shares a platform with sister brand Jeep, measures around 4.50 metres in length and has space for five people.

Beyond the angry-looking front, the car's interior wants to score points with plenty of tech and Alfa Romeo says it has kitted out the Tonale with two large displays in the cockpit.

Under the bonnet, the Italians are also adding electric support for the first time, and the 1.5-litre petrol engine with 160 or 130 horses is equipped with a 48-volt starter generator, enabling very short trips on purely electric power.

Alfa Romeo will also introduce a plug-in hybrid for the first time.

Combining a 1.3 litre petrol engine, a 15.5 kWh battery and an electric motor, it has a system output of 275hp, can drive up to 60 kilometres without emissions and has all-wheel drive thanks to the second engine in the rear.

For those who don't care that much about emissions, there is also a 1.6-litre diesel with 130hp.