VW boss rules out reviving Beetle name for the electric era

                BERLIN: Volkswagen chief executive Thomas Schäfer has ruled out bringing back the Beetle name for a future electric car for as long as he is in charge, the top executive told the British car magazine Autocar.

When asked if the most famous badge in the company's history could be revived, Schäfer said: "I don't think so, because certain vehicles have had their day."

"It wouldn't make sense to bring it back. I wouldn't say with 100% [certainty], but from where I stand now, I wouldn't consider it," Schäfer told Autocar in comments published last week.

The news comes amid a range upheaval at VW as all-electric models like the ID.3 seek to gradually replace the evergreen Golf as standard-bearer.

A former VW CEO's decision to ditch the Golf name has been reversed but Schäfer said names like the Scirocco which was used for a sporty model for decades, were not due to return.

"Obviously, we have a lot of names in our history but there are only, I'd say, a little more than a handful that are really iconic and global", said Schäfer.

The VW chief's comments coincide with the unveiling of virtual Beetle EV for an animated film which prompted speculation that a real, zero-emission production version might be on the way.

The car was designed for a superhero called Ladybug who stars in the upcoming children's film "Miraculous: Ladybug & Cat Noir, The Movie," due to shown for the first time on Netflix at the end of July.

The shape of that car harks back to VW's heritage just like the current ID Buzz resembles the first camper bus but Schäfer said reviving old names for nostalgia reasons "would be a dead end".

A name could only be brought back if the reincarnation adheres closely to the original, said Schäfer. It needed to have the genes of the vehicle that went before.

VW has already been down the revival road with the "New Beetle" produced from October 1997 until July 2010.

It drew much inspiration from the first Beetle but had a front engine, driving the front wheels, with luggage storage in the rear. The broadly similar "Beetle" was built at a factory in Puebla, Mexico until July 2019.

The rear-engined, air-cooled original VW Beetle was first produced in response to Nazi dictator Adolf Hitler's call for "a people's car". It was built in many versions from 1938–2003 during which time more than 21 million units of the car were turned out.

 Schafer.


BMW teases new roadster ahead of Pebble Beach

                MUNICH: Lots of auto events around the world that started out as something relatively specialised are increasingly being used by major automakers to showcase their new, upcoming production models.

BMW has a history of using the sensational Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance event in California to wow crowds and the assembled media with one-off concepts. But via the medium of Twitter, the German luxury manufacturer has announced this year it will be unveiling a new car that could actually be one destined for production.

The car will be revealed on Aug 17, and BMW grandly claims "the road will never be the same" as a result of it.

Last year saw BMW use Pebble Beach to show the world its Turbomeister 2002 Hommage, but the statement about this year's reveal changing the road has obviously led to considerable speculation about this being a production model rather than a one-off. In typically cryptic fashion, all the tweet actually told us was "Find out what is hiding in the dark on Aug 17 at Pebble Beach," which was accompanied by an intriguing teaser sketch.

What's obvious from the image is that the new model is a drop-top of some sort, and it also appears to have cowls behind the front seats, suggesting this is a two-seater roadster. The length of the bonnet also indicates a front-engined format, so, the easy conclusion to jump to is this could be the new successor to the Z4 that we already know is in the pipeline. The problem with that theory though is the Toyota-based model to replace the last Z4 is a relatively compact car, whereas this one looks to be too long for that.

So, unless this is something completely out of the blue, the most likely explanation is this must be the convertible version of the upcoming 8 Series flagship coupe that's getting very close to being released.

The two-seat look of the teaser sketch does tend to contradict that particular theory, but this could just be a concept and the production model wouldn't look greatly different with its rear seats. Regardless, all will be revealed, as they say, in just over a couple of weeks.


Win RM5,000 daily at BHPetrol: Just buy minimum RM30 of fuel

                Boustead Petroleum Marketing Sdn Bhd, which markets and distributes BHPetrol fuel and lubricants, is giving away RM5,000 cash every day to their eCard loyalty program customers in a “eCard Pump and Swipe” contest.

The promotion which runs from April 1 to 30, 2018 at BHPetrol service stations with eCard acceptance, offers RM5,000 cash to one lucky winner every day.

To participate, customers need to buy a minimum RM30 of fuel products (Infiniti 95, Infiniti 97, Infiniti Diesel and Infiniti Euro5 Diesel) in a single receipt and swipe their eCard.

Recently, BHPetrol general manager (supply, retail and government public affairs) Azizul Azily Ahmad presented a contest prize of RM5,000 cash to Khairul Azmi Abdul Kadir.

Khairul Azmi has been an eCard member for the last four years and is a regular customer at BHPetrol Taman Tun Dr Ismail, and pumps Infiniti Euro5 Diesel.

He plans to donate his winning prize to the mosques and surau in conjunction with the upcoming Ramadhan month.

With the BHPetrol eCard loyalty programme, members get 1 ePoint for every RM1 spent at BHPetrol service stations and participating merchant outlets.

Points can be redeemed for items and gifts, including RM10 worth of fuel or merchandise with only 950 ePoints.

Members can also redeem gifts from the BHPetrol Rewards Catalogue or online – ecardrewards.bhpetrol.com.my.

For details, visit www.bhpetrol.com.my.


Honda and Toyota recall 5.3 million US cars over air bag risks

                WASHINGTON: More than 5 million vehicles in the US will be recalled over separate issues that could prevent frontal air bags from deploying normally in a crash.

Honda Motor Co. said it will recall 2.4 million older vehicles over defective air bags that the now-bankrupt supplier Takata Corp. told US regulators in December could put drivers at risk, the automaker said Tuesday.

Separately, Toyota Motor Corp. will recall roughly 2.9 million vehicles over a faulty electronic control unit that could malfunction in certain crashes and cause air bags and seatbelt pre-tensioners — the devices that tighten belts in a crash — to not deploy, the company said in a statement.

For Honda, the callback covers Honda and Acura vehicles from the 1996 through 2003 model years containing a so-called non-azide propellant, a formula Takata used before the ammonium nitrate propellant behind the previous recalls of tens of millions of vehicles worldwide.

Toyota’s recall covers certain sedans and hatchbacks from model years 2011 through 2018.

The new flaw, which Takata reported to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration in early December, could allow air and moisture to leak into the air bag inflator over time and potentially degrade the propellant.

That could cause an air bag to inflate too slowly or with too much force and cause the metal canister containing it to explode and spray drivers with metal shards.

In a statement, Honda said it was aware of one such rupture that occurred in a 1997-model Honda Civic in 2012 in Texas, plus two more in Japan in vehicles being scrapped.

Honda said replacement parts from alternative suppliers are not available and repairs will begin in roughly a year.

Consumers will receive notices in the mail from Honda beginning in the middle of March with a second one going out when the replacement parts are available.

NHTSA began investigating electronic control units made by auto parts supplier ZF-TRW in 2018 and last year expanded the probe to cover an estimated 12 million US vehicles.

A Toyota spokesman said the parts involved in its recall are the same.


Exclusive new Mercedes-Maybach S 650 Night Edition for US

                LOS ANGELES: Mercedes-Benz USA has unveiled the limited new S 650 Maybach Night Edition featuring unique and distinctive black and carbon fiber elements.

Limited to just 15 units, the Mercedes-Maybach S 650 Night Edition is powered by a handcrafted 6.0-litre V12 biturbo engine producing 621hp and 1,000Nm of torque.

It is the most powerful in the Mercedes- Maybach sedan lineup and can rocket from zero to 60 mph in just 4.6 seconds.

The Magic Body Control suspension features a camera that automatically scans the road ahead to proactively counteract bumps and dips for a supremely smooth ride, and it will even lean into curves like a slaloming skier for more dynamic handling.

Key highlights that set the Night Edition apart include the exclusive interior carbon fiber trim in the front and rear of the vehicle, a carbon fiber rear spoiler, and shadow “smoked” 20” Maybach forged wheels.

Finished with Obsidian Black exterior paint and Exclusive Nappa Leather upholstery in Porcelain and Black, this exclusive Edition is complemented by Night Edition leather floor mats and a trunk mat in black with porcelain edges, while Night Edition badges also adorn the front fenders and interior trim.

The sumptuous interior has features such as two executive rear seats with a 43-degree recline angle and power calf rests, front and rear seats with massage feature, a wood/leather steering wheel and leather covered door sills and seat consoles, extended interior ambient lighting in the rear cabin and rear seat entertainment.


Hyundai i20 N hot hatch details revealed

                SEOUL: Hyundai Motor has revealed its latest high-performance model - the new i20 N that's a hot hatch ready for racetrack duties.

Inspired by the i20 WRC rally car, the i20 N is touted to offer a fun driving characteristic and joins the i30 N and i30 Fastback N in the South Korean carmaker's performance line-up.

With a wheelbase of 2,580mm and sitting 10mm closer to the ground compared to the standard i20, the performance-oriented i20 N measures in at 4,075mm-long, 1,750mm-wide and 1,440mm-tall.

Power comes from a Gamma II 1.6-litre T-GDi engine that's managed by a six-speed manual transmission (with Launch Control and Rev Matching) and produces 204PS from 5,500 to 6,000rpm and 275Nmn of torque from 1,750 to 4,500rpm.

The engine features an exclusive turbo system which is cooled by an intercooler and the water circulation of the engine. A 350-bar high-pressure injection rail provides for fuel atomization, a faster engine response, as well as a more efficient mixture preparation.

The brand's new Continuously Variable Valve Duration (CVVD) technology finds its way inside to further help optimise fuel efficiency. The CVVD regulates the duration of valve opening and closing according to driving conditions, achieving a boost in performance and a 3% improvement in fuel efficiency.

Further driving enhancements include the N Corner Carving Differential - a Mechanical Limited Slip Differential (m‑LSD) that utilises a mechanically controlled Torsion gear type to control the power transfer to the front wheels. This helps to optimise traction and enhances grip during cornering.

While weighing roughly 1,190kg (kerb), 0 to 100kph sprints take just 6.7 seconds and can reach a top speed of 230kph.

The i20 N has been fitted with a front bumper with a larger air-intake to help feed the turbocharger as well as a wider radiator grille with the "N" logo features a unique pattern inspired by a chequered flag,

Tomato Red acts as accents on the lip spoiler, new side skirts and the rear.

At the rear, a distinctive WRC-inspired roof spoiler helps to generate downforce to keep it "grounded" when at high speeds, as do the rear diffuser.

Other fitments include a large single exhaust, front LED headlights, darkened tail lamps, N-branded brake callipers and bespoke 18‑inch alloys in a grey matte finish wearing 215/40 Pirelli P-Zero ultra-high-performance tyres with “HN” (Hyundai N).

All budding owners need to do is decide which of the six colours get to accompany the N signature Performance Blue livery that's exclusive to Hyundai N models, an optional Phantom Black roof for a two-tone style and the added Tomato Red accents.

The colours include Performance Blue, Intense Blue, Polar White, Sleek Silver, Brass and Phantom Black.

Inside, the "blacked-out" cabin gets Performance Blue accents and is fitted with dedicated sport seats with integrated headrests, N steering wheel and N gear knob and sporty N metal pedals.

The digital cluster and audio-visual with navigation screen include features such as the variable LED red zone which varies according to engine oil temperature while a shift-timing indicator cues the driver to switch gears optimally at red-line.

Other goodies that have been thrown in include the N Grin Control System which provides five driving modes of Normal, Eco, Sport, N and N Custom.

The Electronic Stability Control (ESC) can be operated in three stages of on, sport and totally off before adding in motorsport-inspired features include an electric sound generator, variable muffler control as well as left-foot braking calibration and a brake pad wear indicator (PWI).

Other than the additional software and mechanical inclusions, engineers have gone through and refined the regular i20’s chassis, suspension, brakes and steering in order to properly handle the added performance and capabilities.

The chassis has been reinforced at 12 different points while the suspension now features reinforced front domes and knuckles with adjusted geometry.

This includes increased camber for better traction and five fixation points for the wheel as well as a new anti-roll bar, new springs and shock absorbers for maximum driving fun.

The all-new N Power Sense Axle at the front combined with a Dual Coupled Torsion Beam Axle (CTBA) at the rear provide higher stiffness for improved ride and handling performance.

Meanwhile, the high-performance brakes feature an increased front disc, which is 40mm larger over standard for increased fade-resistance and a more consistent brake pedal feel.

The steering ratio has been reduced to 12.0 compared to the standard i20's 12.4 and its column-mounted motor-driven power steering system (C-MDPS) has been specially tuned.

Over the i20 N's list of performance goodies, safety has also been beefed up with the inclusion of Hyundai SmartSense Advanced Drivers Assistance System

The system includes features such as Forward Collision Assist City / Interurban / Pedestrian (FCA) as well as Intelligent Speed Limit Assist (ISLA), Lane Following Assist (LFA) and Blind-Spot Collision Warning (BCW), Forward Collision Warning (FCW), Lane Departure Warning (LDW), Lane Keeping Assist (LKA), Driver Attention Warning System incl. Leading Vehicle Departure Alert (LVDA) (DAW+), High Beam Assist (HBA), Rear Cross-Traffic Collision Warning (RCCW) and Rear-view monitor with parking guidance (RVM).

A Performance Driving Data System has also been thrown in to help monitor and improve a driver’s track skills.

This feature saves and displays driving data, including information on horsepower, torque and turbo boost while also providing a lap and acceleration timer.

An optional 10.25-inch LCD touchscreen navigation system with dedicated N content, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto displays the necessary for drivers and is also available with the latest version of Bluelink - Hyundai’s state-of-the-art connected car services.

This offers a wide range of Connected Car services such as Hyundai LIVE Services, Connected Routing and Last Mile Navigation, as well as remote features via the Bluelink smartphone app. Bluelink comes with a free five-year subscription.

The all-new i20 N will be available across Europe from the second quarter of 2021.


Cadillac wants to rewrite the book on car ownership

                DETROIT: Book by Cadillac is described as a first-of-its-kind way of owning a luxury car - and one that could soon become the norm.

The idea is simple: rather than buying one Cadillac that best suits your needs year-to-year, for a monthly subscription fee, members can instead switch between different models, from sporty coupés to roomy SUVs as and when their lifestyle demands, day-to-day.

"Book by Cadillac is an innovative new option targeted at a growing class of luxury drivers searching for access to various cars over time, dependent on their individual needs, coupled with a hassle-free white-glove exchange," said Uwe Ellinghaus, Cadillac chief marketing officer.

When the service launches in New York, members will pay a monthly subscription fee of $1500 and will be able to select the car they want via an app. Every model offered will be a current model year example and in the highest specification Platinum trim.

Mileage is unlimited as is the length of the subscription. People will be under no obligation to sign up and pay for long-term membership.

Since 2015, Audi has been testing a similar service called Audi On Demand, in San Francisco. However, it differs in one big respect, it is closer to a traditional car rental service with concierge delivery and collection, though users can select exactly what type of Audi they need and where it should be delivered to. They can also specify child seats, ski racks and bike racks on certain models.

Cadillac's approach is to treat users as owners, with the car of their choice permanently in their possession until they decide that it's sunny enough for a convertible, or icy enough to warrant using an SUV.

As well as announcing Book by Cadillac, the firm on Thursday revealed that 2016 has been a record year for sales. Its grand total of 308,692 cars for the calendar year is an 11% increase on 2015 and its best single year since 1986.

In particular, its new models are finding fans in China where there has been a 45.9% increase in demand over the past 12 months and is now comfortably the marque's second biggest market after the US.

"It was a stunning year for Cadillac's global growth in 2016," said Cadillac president Johan de Nysschen. "Drawing more customers than any year in the past 30 is an excellent springboard for the robust product offensive from Cadillac in the coming years."


Aussie miner BHP to boost nickel exploration spending amid EV boom

                KALGOORLIE (Australia): BHP Group will increase its spending on nickel exploration over the next two years to meet growing demand for the raw material used in making electric vehicle batteries, the chief of its nickel operations said today.

BHP, through its Nickel West unit, has supply agreements for the metal with Tesla and Toyota, and this month also announced a deal with Ford.

The miner said it has the second largest nickel sulphide resource base globally, based on its land holding, totalling 120,000 hectares, in the Agnew-Wiluna belt in Western Australia.

The area has in excess of 7.4 million tonnes of nickel that still remains largely unexplored, said BHP Nickel West  asset president Jessica Farrell.

"We have budgeted a significant uplift in exploration spend over the next two years, which we expect will advance many of our targets," Farrell told an industry conference here, without providing an investment number.

"This year will be the highest annual spend for exploration in Nickel West," Farrell said.

By 2030, around 60% of all car sales globally will be electric, increasing to 90% of all car sales by 2040, she said.

"The dominant battery chemistry powering this global fleet is expected to rely on nickel," Farrell said.

"This megatrend, combined with a firm demand base from the traditional stainless and class-1 applications means we anticipate demand for nickel in the next 30 years will be 200% to 300% of demand in the previous 30 years," she said.

BHP signed renewable wind and solar energy contracts with power companies this year, including a deal for wind power from Italy's Enel Green Power, that is expected to cover energy needs of three of its major nickel operations in Western Australia by 2024.


Jan 30- Feb 5: Diesel down two sen to RM2.07 per litre, petrol unchanged

                PETALING JAYA: Petrol prices will remain unchanged from Jan 30 to Feb 5, says the Finance Ministry.

The price of diesel, however, will be reduced by two sen from RM2.09 per litre to RM2.07 per litre.

The ministry said that RON97 petrol would remain priced at RM2.20 per litre, while RON95 petrol would stay at RM1.90 per litre.


Solar-powered car from Germany's Sono Motors unveiled in final form

                MUNICH: Until now, we've only seen a few early prototypes of the Sion, a futuristic new electric runabout planned by a German startup and promising the ability to recharge itself on its own with the help of solar power.

One year before the start of series production, Sono Motors has now shown the final design of its debut car that wants to boost its range by up to 245km a week with the help of 456 solar cells on the body.

The relatively compact Sion will cost around €30,000 (RM136,000) at launch, the company announced at the premiere here on Monday.

This also sets it apart from the Dutch Lightyear Zero, which plans to bring solar technology into series production at the turn of the year, but is expected to cost around €300,000 (RM1.4mil).

According to Sono Motors, Sion production is scheduled to start in the second half of 2023.

Sono has smoothed out the design of previous prototypes, fitted new headlights and tail lights and tidied up the interior.

However, the designers' trademark use of moss (no longer living and protected by glass) as a dashboard decoration remains present as a means to market the car's greener mobility.

According to the manufacturer, the treated moss is intended to ensure a "pleasant indoor ambience" and needs replacing around as often as a commercial air filter.

The Sion is powered by a 163hp engine and can hit a maximum speed of 140kph. The battery capacity of 54 kW should allow a range of 305km.

But to enable customers to go even further, the solar cells provide electricity for an average of 112 and at best 245km per week, according to Sono Motors.

The makers say you'll need about 35 minutes to recharge the car at a fast charging station - if you don't want to wait a few days for the sun to finish the job.


Facelifted Renault Megane R.S. 300 Trophy introduced at RM326,476

                PETALING JAYA: Local Renault distributor TC Euro Cars (TCEC) has launched the facelifted Renault Megane R.S. 300 Trophy which gets an upgraded engine, more sophisticated LED lighting and improved convenience features.

This five-door hothatch is priced at RM326,476 on-the-road for private registration without insurance in Peninsular Malaysia, valid until June 30.

In Langkawi, the car is priced at RM174,888.

Alternatively, the Megane R.S. 300 is also available under the subscription package at RM5,200 per month for three years, RM6,200 per month for two years or RM7,200 per month for one year.

The subscription also covers road tax, insurance, regular service and mileage of 20,000km per year.

The upgraded turbocharged direct injection 1.8-litre engine now features ceramic ball-bearing turbocharger and improved exhaust system.

It can deliver more grunt than the previous version at 300PS and 420Nm of torque and allowing a 0-100kph sprint of 5.7 seconds.

Like racing cars, its six-speed Efficient Dual Clutch gearbox comes with steering wheel-mounted gearshift paddles.

The gearshift performance depends on which R.S. Drive mode is selected, comprising “My Sense”, “Save”, “Sport” and “Race” modes.

Also new are full LED headlamps and revised daytime running lights plus new rear LED lighting signature.

Other new items are exclusive R.S. double-diamond stamped specific leather, Alcantara steering wheel, honeycomb radiator grille stamp that incorporates R.S. double diamond logo, Easylink 7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support, sportier dashboard with 7-inch customisable TFT driver's information display and Trophy stamped F1-style blade.

Also new are 19-inch Jerez wheels with design inspired by the Renault Sport R.S.01 concept car, featuring a diamond-cut finish with red borders.

The Megane R.S. 300 Trophy is equipped with the Cup chassis that features a Torsen mechanical Limited Slip Differential, with new calibration that enables more precise entry to corners and improved traction when exiting corners.

It also comes with 4Control - a four-wheel steering system that delivers outstanding agility through tight turns and impressive cornering stability at higher speeds.

At low speeds, the rear wheels turn in the opposite direction to the front wheels, the more direct steering delivering incisive handling.

At high speeds, the front and rear wheels turn in the same direction, meaning the rear wheels are perfectly aligned and the car enjoys increased stability.

Other R.S. features include R.S. Vision high-performance lighting that combines four functions of sidelights, cornering lights, fog lights and long-range high beam lights; rear bumper with a built-in diffuser and the iconic central exhaust; narrower rear spoiler to improve aerodynamic performance; Brembo brake callipers in striking red and wing-mounted air extractors which optimise airflow through the wheel arches.

“The new Megane R.S. 300 Trophy stays true to our commitment to performance, living up to Renault’s rich racing heritage. Furthermore, we have made it more accessible by offering both purchase and subscription options for those that appreciate performance in their everyday drive.” said TCEC chief executive officer Wong Hoe Mun.

Warranty is three years or 100,000km whichever comes first.

Besides the new Flame Red, the Megane R.S. 300 Trophy is also available in Diamond Black, Pearl White and the signature Liquid Yellow (additional RM9,000) or Orange Tonic (additional RM9,000).


Audi electric cars to be built around the world

                BERLIN: Audi plans to build electric cars at all of its factories worldwide, including sites in Mexico and Hungary, the luxury carmaker’s chief executive said today.

Audi has to date only assigned production of its first mass-produced electric sport-utility vehicle to a factory in Brussels and has been pressured by its labour leaders to allot zero-emission cars to core plants in Germany.

“In future electric cars will roll off the line in all of our plants,” Audi chief executive Rupert Stadler told a staff gathering at Audi’s base in Ingolstadt.


Carmakers rev up emissions cuts as tough rules loom

                PARIS: Global carmakers, stung by emissions scandals, are racing to hunt down every gram of harmful CO2 spewed out on the roads as tougher pollution rules kick in.

Auto manufacturers gearing up for Europe’s biggest annual car show in Geneva are celebrating the end of the sector’s crisis. European sales have returned to levels last seen in 2008 before a global financial meltdown inflicted deep dents on their business.

But a dark cloud has gathered over the outlook because of emissions scandals, especially involving European market leader Volkswagen, and the road to recovery will be paved with unprecedented efforts to fight auto pollution, involving equally unprecedented costs.

”Solutions are more and more expensive,” said Marc Charlet, at Mov’eo, an automotive and mobility research network. “There is much at stake here, and the competition is fierce.”

European rules for combustion engines were always going to become more stringent, but Volkswagen’s emissions cheating, the industry’s biggest pollution scandal to date, has turbo-charged regulators’ eagerness to crack down on pollution.

Sales of cars with cleaner alternative technologies are still only marginal, with electric cars accounting for just 1.2 percent of new car sales in the EU in 2015, according to the European Environmental Agency.

Volkswagen admitted in 2015 to having installed software in 11 million diesel engines worldwide to circumvent emissions tests.

Carmakers are now having to steer toward engines that emit no more than 95 grams of CO2 per kilometre by 2021 to meet European requirements, compared to 130 grams in 2015.

But as diesel cars have been getting a bad rap because of emissions scandals, that target looks harder to meet.
”Diesel cars emit 15 percent less CO2 per kilometre” than gasoline-fuelled models, said Christophe Aufrere, a technology strategist at car parts maker Faurecia.

That means gasoline-powered cars have to take up the slack, requiring the industry to squeeze more efficiency out of engines and to reduce vehicles’ weight.

If they don’t manage, the bill will be high. Automakers failing to meet the CO2 targets — capping petrol consumption to 4.1 litres per 100 kilometres and diesel to 3.6 litres — will have to pay 95 euros (RM449) for every extra CO2 gram emitted by each car — potentially adding up to tens of millions of euros of fines.

”We will have to look for grams to save in every part of the car, particularly in components,” said Guillaume Devauchelle, head of innovation and research and parts maker Valeo. This includes air conditioning, second only to the engine for energy use, electric compressors, self starters, right down to lightbulbs. Every weight gain of 12 kilos, meanwhile, translates into one gram of CO2 saved.

Better electronics and aerodynamic designs will also help. Research and development costs “have practically doubled in the past decade” said Remi Cornubert at AT Kearney, a consulting firm, adding that half the increase was forced on carmakers by regulators.

”The car of the future will be significantly more expensive to design and to build,” said Guillaume Crunelle, auto expert at the Deloitte consulting group.

Executives needing a break from nagging worries about rules and money can always take time to enjoy the glamour for which the Geneva show is famous.

The legendary Ferrari, Lamborghini, Pagani, McLaren and Bentley have picked Lake Geneva’s shore to present new models. Renault will showcase the final version of its Alpine A110 sports car.

”Geneva has always been the show of beautiful automobiles and prestigious racing cars,” said Ferdinand Dudenhoeffer at the CAR institute.

But the greatest buzz may come from so-called “crossover” vehicles (CUVs), which combine features taken from sports utility vehicles (SUVs) with those of passenger cars.

The segment, including fashionable urban four-wheel drive vehicles, now makes up nearly 30 percent of the European car market and features the Volvo XC60, the Citroen C-Aircross, the DS7 Crossback and the Land Rover Velar.

Some 180 companies will be present at the 10-day show which opens to the public on March 9 after two press days during which most major corporate announcements are expected. Last year’s show attracted 687,000 visitors.


819hp Lamborghini Sián Roadster struts out

                BOLOGNA: Lamborghini debuted the Sián Roadster on Wednesday.

It's a limited edition, open-top hybrid super sports car engineered around Lamborghini’s iconic V12 engine. All 19 units are already sold.

Roadster features Lamborghini Sián’s world-first use of super capacitor in hybrid solution and unique materials-science application.

With 819hp on tap, it's the roofless version of the most powerful Lamborghini ever produced.

It's low weight-to-power ratio of 2.0 kg/hp enables it to sprint from 0 to 100kph in under 2.9 seconds and reach a top speed of over 350kph.

The Sián Roadster makes its debut in Blu Uranus, especially selected by Lamborghini’s Centro Stile, which together with the Ad Personam department works with every Sián client to personalise the colour and finish of their Roadster.

The complementary interior is a combination of white with Blu Glauco detailing and aluminum elements in Oro Electrum: new-design air vents produced via 3D printing allows customisation with a client’s initials.

The aerial view of the Sián Roadster is evocative of the iconic periscopio line inspired by the first Countach, running diagonally from the cockpit to the rear and culminating in the aerodynamic airstreamers behind driver and passenger.

The car’s very low front, with integrated carbon fiber splitter, houses the iconic Lamborghini Y-shape headlights.

Lamborghini says airflow is directed through the front splitters and through the front bonnet, through the side air intakes and outlets and over the rear spoiler, with no loss of aerodynamic efficiency from the roadster’s roofless design.

Active cooling vanes on the rear use unique materials-science technology patented by Lamborghini: operation of the vanes is triggered by the reaction of smart-material elements to the temperature generated by the exhaust system, causing them to rotate and providing an elegant and lightweight cooling solution.

The rear of the car incorporates Lamborghini’s evocative hexagon design, including six hexagonal taillights inspired by the Countach. The rear wing is integrated within the profile and extends out only during the driving to enhance the performance.

The low, chassis houses a next-generation V12 powerplant: ‘Sián’ in local Bolognese dialect, meaning ‘flash’ or ‘lightening’, denotes the Sián Roadster’s electrification as part of the future hybrid strategy

The Sián Roadster’s hybrid system provides the highest power possible via the lightest solution, combining the V12 engine with a new powertrain. A 48-volt e-motor, delivering 34hp, is incorporated into the gearbox to provide immediate response and improved performance. The e-motor also supports low-speed maneuvers such as reversing and parking with electric power.

The Sián Roadster sports Lamborghini’s innovative supercapacitor application: a world-first technology storing 10 times the power of a lithium-ion battery.

It's located in the bulkhead between cockpit and engine for optimum weight distribution. Three times more powerful than a battery of the same weight and three times lighter than a battery producing the same power, the electric system with the supercapacitor and e-motor weighs 34kg; it delivers a remarkable weight-to-power ratio of 1.0 kg/hp.

This advanced technology combines with the V12 engine, which incorporates titanium intake valves and is uprated to 785hp at 8,500 rpm. Combined with the additional 34hp from the hybrid system, the Sián Roadster delivers a total of 819hp and reaches a top speed of over 350kph.

The Roadster features a highly sophisticated regenerative braking system, developed by Lamborghini. The symmetric behaviour of the supercapacitor, which contrary to normal Li-Ion batteries can be charged and discharged with the same power, fully charges the Sián’s energy storage system every time the vehicle brakes.

The energy stored is an instantly-available power boost, allowing the driver to draw immediately on increased torque when accelerating away, up to 130kph when the e-motor automatically disconnects, improving the elasticity maneuvers and making it more than 10% faster than a car without this system.

The innovative system also delivers instant acceleration in low gears, with improved traction force provided by the combination of V12 engine and hybrid system.

The moment when deceleration and missing torque is felt during gear changes powered by a traditional combustion engine, is eliminated by the torque upshift fill provided by the hybrid’s e-motor: the driver will feel only the pull backward of acceleration, eliminating uncomfortable jerking movements.


SEMA 2018: Honda reveals nearly cabinless concept truck

                LAS VEGAS: Honda opened the 2018 SEMA show with the Rugged Open Air Concept, an open air truck designed — both inside and out — to withstand the great outdoors.

Honda used the opening day of SEMA 2018 as an opportunity to showcase its new off-road-ready Rugged Open Air Concept — an aggressively styled pickup complete with the "utility of the Honda Ridgeline" and the "off-road ruggedness" of the Honda Pioneer.

This brawny concept exposes passengers to the outdoors with nothing but a cabin frame overhead. The interior was redesigned to be ale to survive in the face of nature with waterproof upholstery and durable paint-on surfaces "to protect the exposed instrument panel from the elements."

Though the model is a concept, it has been developed with existing Honda parts, making the off-roader a potential reality for some. The modified Ridgeline body and suspension are coupled with production Pioneer doors, and a custom bed and tailgate panels inspired by thePioneer 1000side-by-side.

This Rugged model stands beside an impressive lineup of Honda models on display in LA, including the Honda Civic Type R TCR, the THR-W Honda Civic Type R, the F3 Americas Race Car, the 2019 Honda Insight, the Honda Ridgeline Overland Concept, and a collection of Powersports models.


Use of illegal retreaded tyres posing serious danger to motorists

                PETALING JAYA: Illegally retreaded tyres are putting the lives of road users at stake, so much so that even transport and tyre associations have called for a clampdown on shady retreaders.

An average of two accidents happen daily due to tyre combustion or tyre debris on the road. PLUS Malaysia Bhd recorded 613 road accidents last year on the expressway due to these factors.

Heavy vehicles tend to go for retreaded tyres for the obvious reason.

“A retreaded tyre is usually 50% cheaper than a new tyre,” said Pan Malaysia Bus Operators Association president Datuk Mohamad Ashfar Ali.

Stressing that his members would not buy uncertified retreaded tyres, he said the low quality of some of these illegally tyres could cause them to explode while the vehicle was moving.

These tyres might burst due to overloading, casing, or that the rubber and the glue used on the tyres were below par.

“The tyre is the only contact point between the road and the vehicle. So, it must be able to withstand the heat, the high speed the vehicle is travelling in and the load of the vehicle,” he said.

As such, he said, express buses on long journeys would be fitted with new tyres while normal buses that travel short distances would be installed with retreaded tyres at the back wheel.

Such tyres must come only from certified manufacturers, he said, adding that a tyre should ideally be retreaded only once.

Mohamad Ashfar urged the authorities to crack down harder on illegally retreaded tyre manufacturers.

Pan Malaysia Lorry Owners Association president Jong Foh Jit acknowledged that it was common for lorries to use retreaded tyres as they were cheaper.

“But they must ensure the tyres are certified by Sirim,” he said.

READ MORE:
Tyre retreaders cite high cost of certification as deterrence

“Some people are tempted to go for cheaper, illegally retreaded tyres due to the economic slowdown, but they may endanger themselves and other road users,” he added.

Jong said some lorry operators would retread a tyre two to three times.

Tyre Retreading Manufacturers Association of Malaysia said it was high time the authorities clamped down on unscrupulous tyre retreaders.

The move would force retreaders to get the Sirim certification and start complying with government standards, association president Chin Hong Meng said.

“We have been encouraging them to get Sirim’s MS224 certification since 2007. That’s 10 years ago! We’ve already given them ample time. It is high time that enforcement was carried out,” he said.

Transport Minister Datuk Seri Liow Tiong Lai slammed illegal manufacturers, saying that many fatal accidents were caused by retreaded tyres that did not meet standards.


Ducati Malaysia offers rebates up to 80% for 2018 year-end

                KUALA LUMPUR: Ducati Malaysia is offering rebates up to 80% during the Ducati Red Christmas: Year End Special promotion.

From now until 31st December, customers will enjoy savings up to RM50,000 on selected Ducati bikes; exclusively for Ducati PJ customers, including the fun and versatile Multistrada 950 from only RM76,000 which comes with a free Touring Pack.

At just RM115,000 onwards, customers can now own a Diavel Diesel; the timeless and unique bike reflecting Diesel’s hard rock DNA, complete with a Termignoni full system exhaust package.

There are also discounts up to 70% on Ducati and Scrambler Ducati apparel until 2nd January at the official Ducati merchandise shop in Ducati Petaling Jaya.

The brand will be offering fantastic discounts at all authorised Ducati stores and dealerships nationwide of up to 80% for Ducati accessories and spare parts from 10th December 2018 to 13th January 2019.

Customers will also be treated to a 25% rebate for Desmo service parts as part of its pre-purchase program.

To sweeten the deal, customers with minimum spend of RM600 in a single receipt will bring home a complimentary authentic Ducati T-shirt worth RM250!

Ducati Malaysia will also be providing a free 15-point check at the Ducati Service Clinic Ducati Malaysia, Next Bike Sdn Bhd, Lot 1, Jalan 51A/221, 46100 Petaling Jaya,Selangor, from 21st – 23rd December.

This special value added service is available from 10am to 5pm and is open to all Ducati models, including official imports and grey import bikes.


Tesla says Model 3 design still a work in progress

                SAN FRANCISCO/DETROIT: Tesla Motors Inc said today the design of its new Model 3 has not been finalised, even though the electric car maker expects to begin building the mass-market sedan within the next 18 months.

Tesla's plans to expand its Fremont, California factory are still in process and some aspects of procuring and making parts for the Model 3 have yet to be determined, the company said in its quarterly financial report.

The Model 3, whose projected starting price of US$35,000 is less than half of the luxury Model S sedan, is intended to dramatically boost Tesla's production volume and revenue, and help the company eventually turn a profit.

Tesla has missed many of its key production deadlines, including launches of the Model S and Model X sport utility vehicle, because of quality and supply issues.

"We are evaluating, qualifying and selecting our suppliers" for the Model 3, Tesla said in the report filed with the US Securities and Exchange Commission.

Tesla chief executive Elon Musk last week jolted investors with the news that he planned to accelerate production at the Fremont plant, which is now targeted to build 500,000 vehicles in 2018, two years ahead of schedule.

The accelerated production schedule is "aggressive," Barclays analyst Brian Johnson said in a phone interview today. "Finalising the design work, and lining up the suppliers and launching in one and a half years seems not possible."

On a conference call with analysts last week, Musk acknowledged that the Model 3 design was not complete, saying it would take another 6-9 weeks to complete engineering decisions.

An initial rush of 325,000 Model 3 reservations, each accompanied by a refundable US$1,000 deposit, could persuade Tesla to raise additional funds to help finance the accelerated production.

Tesla appeared to be conserving cash in the first quarter as it struggled to cope with parts shortages and early quality problems on the Model X, the financial filing showed.

With an operating loss of US$248 million, free cash flow dipped to a negative US$466 million, even as Tesla slashed capital spending nearly in half.

But the company said in the filing it expected to ramp up capital spending later this year and could spend more than US$2 billion in the next three quarters, including more than US$500 million to begin production of vehicle battery cells at its Reno, Nevada plant by year-end.

Tesla boosted its cash position to US$1.4 billion as of March 31, after drawing down more than US$400 million from a revolving credit line.


2017 Bangkok Motor Show: Nissan Note

                BANGKOK: The Note B-segment hatchback was the highlight at the Nissan display area at the 2017 Bangkok Motor Show.

Launched in Thailand two months ago, the spacious Note is Nissan's answer to the Honda Jazz.

It is produced under Thailand's Eco-Car Phase 2 programme, which translates into reduced duties.

Hence, it has a fuel economical 1.2-litre three-cylinder engine, mated to a CVT automatic transmission.

It runs on 185/65 R15 tyres, and fuel economy is rated at 5 litres per 100km.

Features include ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), EBD (Electronic Brake-force Distribution) and brake assist.


Unlike diamonds, highway tolls aren't forever, says Works Ministry

                KUALA LUMPUR: Claims that highway users will be paying toll indefinitely following the restructuring of four companies with an extension of the concession period are untrue, says the Works Ministry.

The ministry said concessionaires cannot arbitrarily add on new debts as enshrined in the New Agreement involving the recent restructuring of the four concessionaires.

"The government will always ensure that consumers are not burdened.

"If this restructuring is not allowed in order that the government can save on compensation, then the toll rate increase has to be given, which will then cause a chain reaction where the cost of goods will increase as well," it said in a statement today.

On April 4, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob announced the government's decision to maintain toll rates on four highways until the company's concession period ended.

The four highway concession companies are Kesas Sdn Bhd which manages the Shah Alam Expressway (KESAS), Stormwater Management and Road Tunnel (SMART), Western KL Traffic Dispersal System Sdn Bhd or SPRINT and Lingkaran Trans Kota Sdn Bhd (Damasara-Puchong Highway or LDP).

In the same statement, the ministry also clarified on the alleged fixed cost for the construction and maintenance of the highways and extension of the concession period which has always been worrisome to consumers.

"This is a false and misleading statement. The government has never paid or provided allocations in the form of fixed costs for the construction or maintenance of the highways.

"Construction was done using funds obtained by the concession company through loans or the issuance of Sukuk which must be repaid through toll collection while the operation cost and maintenance is covered through toll collection," it said.

The statement also clarified that the extension of the concession period was given only as an indicator to assure Sukuk holders that their investment would be repaid.

"The earliest expiration date is six more years which is 2028 for Kesas, another eight years to 2030 for LDP, another 12 years to 2034 for SPRINT and another 20 years which is 2042 for SMART. This is enshrined in the existing Concession Agreement. In this structuring, the extension given is not exclusive (to any of the our concession companies)," it said.

The ministry explained that with the restructuring, the toll rate would remain the same for a further period, in fact the government could also end the concession period at any time subject to its financial position to avoid an increase in the price of goods due to a rise in toll rate.

The statement also clarified the allegation against Amanat Lebuhraya Rakyat Berhad (ALR) which took over the highway assets worth over RM5bil with a mere capital of RM5,000.

"The role of the ALR is solely as the custodian of the four highways. Prospective sukuk investors (or sukuk subscribers) need confidence to invest (for returns) and as such, the ALR consists of corporate figures who are not affiliated with any political party.

"This allows ALR with a capital of only RM5,000 to act as "guardian" of the four highways. In addition, since the original shareholders are no more and since ALR is non-profit, then no more dividend payment is required to be made and which thus allows the toll rate to be maintained at the existing rate,” it added.


Repair services for old SmartTAG devices stopped from July 1

                PETALING JAYA: Come July 1, aftersales service will be halted for the 14-year-old SmartTAG OBU 330 device, says Touch 'n Go Sdn Bhd in a statement on its Facebook page.

However, the device can still be used at the toll booths as long as it's still functional.

“The device was first introduced in 2004, and it can still be used. But we will not provide repair services for that model anymore,” said a Touch ‘n Go spokesman.

In the Facebook notice, the company said some of the spare parts for SmartTAG OBU 330 was no longer available.

One SmartTAG user G.Rajan said the SmartTAG OBU 330 was a more durable product compared to the newer model.

“I don’t fancy the new one because, in my case, the screen became faulty within a month of purchase.

“Half the screen became blank, and I couldn’t see my credit balance. However, my friends who have the older ones are happy with their older devices,” said Rajan, who bought his new device for RM120.

Rajan, who is an IT expert, said there were many YouTube tutorials on how to repair the newer SmartTAG at home.

Another use Albert Koh, said the OBU 330 was easier for sensors to detect at toll booths compared to the newer version.

“My old SmartTAG lasted over five years compared to the new ones which I changed within a year,” said Koh.

Meanwhile, over at the Touch ‘n Go Facebook page, SmartTAG OBU 330 users are asking if they would be given a new device if their old ones became faulty and could no longer be repaired.


AMG muscles in on another Mercedes

STUTTGART: Just in time for the Paris motor show, Daimler-Benz's dedicated performance arm, AMG has been let loose on the latest generation Mercedes E-Class sedan and station wagon.

The new E 43 4Matic models, which will make their real-world debut in Paris on Sept 28, are described as simply the first stage of AMG enhancement, in other words, even more powerful E 63 versions with V8 engines are in the pipeline.

However, for those that can't wait, the E 43 is no slouch. AMG has taken the cars' standard 3-litre V6 and upped the power to 401hp via improvements to the powerplant's twin turbochargers. And then, thankfully, routed that power and the accompanying 520Nm of torque through a nine-speed automatic transmission to all for wheels for greater control and handling.

"We have considerably expanded our model range for performance-oriented customers with our new 43 models," said Mercedes-AMG chairman Tobias Moers. "The E 43 4Matic adds particularly versatile alternatives for business and recreation to this extensive product range."

Indeed the station wagon, a type of car that usually appeals to people because of its practicality - space for all the family and their luggage - has been turned into a muscle car for soccer moms. Even with the extra weight and aerodynamic limitations of a larger trunk, it can go from 0-100kph in 4.7 seconds, making it just 0.1 seconds slower than the more shapely sedan. However, that power is being offered with responsibility, as Mercedes claims the car can deliver a fuel economy of 8.4l/100km on the combined European test cycle.

Other refinements over standard models include retuned sports suspension that can be set up for a stiffer or softer ride, depending on who is sitting in the passenger seat, faster shift times from the gearbox and a shortened steering ratio. However, aware that with the station wagon in particular that the car is going to spend as much time negotiating carparks as it is hairpin bends, the ratio can be adjusted for speed and situation.

Then of course there's the exterior styling. No one who gazes upon either E 43 will be in any doubt of their performance potential thanks to 19-inch alloy wheels, three huge air intakes in the front apron and the twin polished tail pipes and diffuser at the rear.


BMW dealer Wheelcorp Premium opens 4S outlet in Bukit Tinggi, Klang

De Visser with Michael (left) and Jayden at the opening of the Bukit Tinggi 4S dealership.
KUALA LUMPUR: BMW authorised dealer Wheelcorp Premium today unveiled its new 4S showroom that will feature new facilities aimed at improving customer service.

The showroom, located in Bukit Tinggi will be home to new vehicles from the BMW, BMW i, BMW M and MINI portfolios, as well as BMW Premium Selection (aka used cars) – serving customers in Klang and its surrounding townships including Shah Alam, Setia Alam and Kota Kemuning.

Beyond the premium creature comforts that can be expected from a 4S centre of the BMW Group, Wheelcorp Premium elevates its customer experiences with luxurious kitchen innovation experts De Dietrich in its NEXTGen Luxury space, Ogawa in its Relaxation Zone as well as Starbucks in one of its two Isetta Bar lounges.

BMW and MINI owners are able to have access to the 4S service centre providing sales, services, spare parts and systems at Wheelcorp Premium Bukit Tinggi, further complemented by the body and paint repair facilities in the Setia Alam dealership.

The 170,000 square feet Bukit Tinggi dealership has 20 service bays, allowing up to 80 service appointments to be handled per day.

These new work-bays are complemented by a drive-through-operated fast-lane service for customers requiring on-the-go maintenance and repairs.

A myriad of customer-dedicated facilities will also be made available including insurance renewal and trade-in services, along with "Reception at the Car". BMW describes its "Reception at the Car" service as a way to keep customers in the loop on what needs to be serviced or changed. An employee will go through with the customer the list of things to be done and the service will proceed only with the customer consent.

For a collection of merchandise and accessories, customers can browse the BMW and MINI lifestyle section.

The dealership has the capacity to display up to nine units of BMW vehicles, including those from the BMW M and BMW i portfolio, as well as four units of MINI vehicles and 25 units of BMW Premium selection as well as MINI Used Car Next.

DC fast chargers are also available at Wheelcorp Premium Setia Alam with access to public use via the ChargEV App.

To date, BMW Group Malaysia provides BMW and MINI EV owners with access to over 610 charging facilities nationwide, powered by industry partners JomCharge with over 65 charging stations, Gentari with 117 charging stations, and ChargEV with over 330 charging stations - including the 26 charging facilities powered by ChargEV and Yinson GreenTech at 17 Starbucks stores within the Klang Valley, Penang, Malacca and Johor.

Over 80 BMW i charging facilities are also available at most authorised BMW and MINI dealerships across the country, with more to be installed in 2023.

BMW Group Malaysia managing director Hans de Visser, who was present at the opening of the new showroom, said the areas that the latest Wheelcorp Premium serves offer huge business potential.

"Over the next five years, we will see the premium segment in these areas grow by over 20% and we need to prime ourselves to meet this growth.”

Wheelcorp Premium,  led by a father-and-son team, has been a BMW dealer for 10 years. It is helmed by executive chairman Michael Liew and managing director Jayden Liew - who are back-to-back winners at BMW's annual dealer awards.

Wheelcorp Premium Bukit Tinggi 4S Centre operates from 8.30 am to 7.00 pm daily from Monday to Saturday and 10.00 am to 6.00 pm on Sundays at Lot 142646, Jalan Remia 5/KS 07, Ambang Botanik, 41200 Klang, Selangor. To learn more about the new dealership, visit https://bmw-wheelcorppremium.com.my/.


Jaguar I-Pace finally unveiled

LONDON: There's been so much said and written about the Jaguar I-Pace over the last few months you could be forgiven for thinking it had been on sale for some time.

It hasn't been, of course, but at least it's now been officially unveiled in its final production form ahead of its public debut at the 2018 Geneva Motor Show.

Completely new models from major manufacturers deservedly get a lot of attention, but the I-Pace is more than just another new Jaguar as it's the British luxury manufacturer's first venture into the world of all-electric vehicles.

It might look quite familiar as this production model is very close to the original 2016 concept, and plenty of images have been published of the I-Pace undergoing testing at the Nurburgring and elsewhere. However, this is a new model where what's underneath the body is going to be talked about a lot more than the exterior styling.

At the heart of the Jaguar's powertrain is a state-of-the-art 90 kWh lithium-ion battery powering two electric motors, and the system puts equal focus on practicality and performance.

The 394hp and 696Nm powertrain gets the SUV from 0 to 100kph in as little as 4.8 seconds, but it's also capable of delivering a driving range of 480km on a single full charge. And if a 100kWh DC fast charger is available, the I-Pace can be recharged to 80 percent in just 40 minutes.

Ian Hoban, Vehicle Line Director, Jaguar I-Pace, explains: "We set out with a clean sheet approach to harness new battery electric technology with an architecture engineered from the outset to optimise performance, aerodynamics and interior space. The result is the I-Pace; a true Jaguar and truly driver-focused EV. For I-Pace customers, fuel stations are a thing of the past, after overnight charging they'll wake up every morning with a 'full tank of fuel'!"

Jaguar isn't leaving things to chance when it comes to that all-important range either, as the navigation system is specially designed to offer routes that ensure the maximum possible range.

The Jaguar I-Pace is available to order now, with prices starting from £63,495 (RM345,000) in Britain before any government incentives are applied.


VEP trial run to end soon

                PONTIAN: The Vehicle Entry Permit (VEP) trial run for foreign-registered vehicles entering Malaysia from Johor’s entry points is expected to be completed by the end of this month, says Transport Minister Datuk Seri Liow Tiong Lai.

The trial began in July to iron out any technical problem that may arise at the Causeway and Second Link checkpoints.

“I will not announce the implementation date without being sure that the system is perfect as we cannot afford any mistake,” he told reporters after launching the Tanjung Piai and Pontian MCA divisions’ annual general meeting yesterday.


Musk's defamation win may reset legal landscape for social media

Musk defended his comments as trivial taunts made on a social media platform that he argued everyone views as a world of unfiltered opinion, which is protected as free speech, rather than statements of fact. — AFP

LOS ANGELES: Elon Musk’s daring has left its mark on electric cars and rockets, and now experts say the entrepreneur may have reshaped US defamation law with his willingness to defend at a high-stakes trial a lawsuit over an off-the-cuff tweet.

The victory by Tesla Inc’s outspoken chief executive over a Twitter message describing a British cave explorer as “pedo guy” has raised the bar for what amounts to libel online, according to some legal experts.

Musk defended his comments as trivial taunts made on a social media platform that he argued everyone views as a world of unfiltered opinion, which is protected as free speech, rather than statements of fact.

“I think this verdict reflects that there is a feeling that internet tweets and chats are more like casual conversation whether you call it opinion or rhetoric or hyperbole and should not be punished in a lawsuit,” said Chip Babcock, a lawyer who defends against defamation lawsuits.

Several other attorneys who specialiSe in defamation cases privately expressed surprise at the outcome of what they viewed as a strong case for the cave explorer, Vernon Unsworth. They attributed it to Musk’s fame and the perceived youthfulness of the jury.

But they also agreed it would shift the legal landscape, undercutting the cases that would have seemed viable before the trial while defendants would use it to try to reduce possible settlement values.

Musk’s court papers cast his comments as part of the rough-and-tumble world of Twitter, which rewards and encourages emotional outbursts and sucks in readers worldwide but that no one takes seriously.

Mark Sableman, a lawyer who defends defamation cases, said the freewheeling nature of social media has inevitably changed the understanding of language and what amounts to defamatory factual statements, versus opinion.

“I think defendants in modern defamation cases are likely to point to the vitriolic no-holds-barred nature of modern social media, cable TV, and political discourse, in contending that many words and accusations formerly considered defamatory are now understood only as mere opinions, not factual assertions,” he said.

In general, to prove libel, the written form of defamation, someone must show the existence of a false statement, which defendants often try to present as opinion. The plaintiff also must show it was published to a third party, it was negligent and it caused harm.

“While there is more leeway and more hyperbole online and in social media in general, courts never really accepted that argument that social media is a libel free-zone,” said Lyrissa Lidsky, a professor who specialises in defamation at the University of Missouri School of Law.

Several attorneys said Unsworth appeared to have a strong case, and noted that Musk failed to convince the judge to dismiss it at an early stage.

But they cautioned that anything can happen in a courtroom where factors such as the credibility of witnesses and likeability of parties can become important factors.

“Based on the court’s pre-trial rulings on motions, Mr Unsworth’s case going in had the potential to underpin a substantial verdict in his favour,” said John Walsh, who represents people bringing defamation cases.

Unsworth helped rescue a boys soccer team from a flooded cave in Thailand and during a TV interview criticised Musk’s “PR stunt” of showing up at site with a mini-submersible, which was never used. Musk responded with several tweets to his almost 30 million followers and a damaging email to a news outlet, and the lawsuit followed.

In recent years, judges have been wrestling with social media comments and whether to consider them factual statements or protected opinions.

US President Donald Trump, singer and actress Courtney Love and actor James Woods have all been embroiled in multiple libel lawsuits over tweets, with mixed results.

Trump has had success casting Twitter as a place where combatants trade demeaning messages that users understand are not defamatory statements of fact.

Judge James Otero in Los Angeles dismissed a case against the president for a tweet blasting as a “total con job” a claim by adult film actress Stormy Daniels that she was threatened for speaking about an alleged affair with Trump.

Otero described the message as “rhetorical hyperbole,” fired off with an incredulous tone that no reasonable person would take as factual statement about Daniels, whose real name is Stephanie Clifford.

Unsworth’s attorney, Lin Wood, warned social media is “tearing at the fabric of society” and the Musk verdict would worsen that trend.

“It is now said by this jury that insults are completely open season,” he said. “Everyone should be concerned about their reputations.”


New Hyundai Kona and Sonata launched in Malaysia

                PETALING JAYA: Hyundai-Sime Darby Motors (HSDM) has two new models in the Malaysian market – the D-segment Sonata sedan and the compact SUV, Kona.

The Kona is available in three variants: the 2.0-liter Nu MPI Standard and Active, and the top-specced 1.6 Turbo which is priced at RM123,888, RM138,888 and RM151,888 respectively.

HSDM is offering a special introductory price for a limited time only of RM115,888 for the 2.0 Kona, RM130,888 for the 2.0 Active and RM143,888 for the 1.6 Turbo.

The Sonata is only available in the SmartStream G2.5 version and priced at RM206,888.

 Hyundai Sonata.

HSDM is offering the first 50 Sonata units at a special introductory price, inclusive of tax savings, of RM189,888

All prices are on-the-road without insurance and sales tax.

Both the Sonata and Kona come with a five-year or 300,000km (whichever comes first) warranty.

The Kona incorporates several distinguishing features such as Wireless Phone Charging and Driver Attention Warning System.

The contrasting vibrant colour seatbelts and interior trim colour creates a burst of exciting colour in the cabin.

The Sonata offers the state-of-the-art hidden lighting lamps architecture; blind-spot-view monitoring that offers a “live” video feed of blind spots which is projected onto a video screen on the digital gauge cluster; and a 6-speed automatic transmission with a shift-by-wire feature controlled by a push-button shift console.

It is also the first Hyundai model in Malaysia to be equipped with the Smartstream G2.5 powertrain.

Low Yuan Lung, Managing Director of HSDM said, “We understand the needs of our customers. Today’s car buyers would prefer to be associated with a brand that is distinctive, and offers quality, innovative designs and performance. The all-new Sonata and Kona have been specially created to appeal to these car owners.

“We have received overwhelming response for the new Kona during the pre-launch booking phase. As a result of the positive response, we are happy to announce that we will continue to market the Kona here. Customers can thus expect the next generation of Kona to be introduced here as well.

“The new Sonata is a fully transformed vehicle that bears more resemblance to a sporty four-door coupe. The new model is a step up from what people have come to expect from Hyundai and is expected to draw onlookers to take a closer look at the details."

The new models are available for viewing at all Hyundai showrooms nationwide. For more information contact Hyundai’s Customer Careline at 1-300-13-2000.

Kona

The Kona’s 'urban smart armour' exterior features voluminous, aggressive body styling which complements a low and wide stance.

Its masculine, protective ‘armour’ combines with LED lighting for a high-tech look. It incorporates Hyundai’s new family identity, the cascading grille, featuring a sporty mesh pattern, flanked by flared and wing-like fenders. It is further enhanced by a composite headlamp design, with high-efficiency LED headlights and LED Daytime Running Lights (DRLs).

The 2.0 Active and 1.6 Turbo variants are fitted with 18-inch alloy wheels while the 2.0 basic variant is fitted with 17-inch wheels.

Safety-wise, the Kona 1.6 Turbo has advanced safety features such as Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA), Lane Keeping Assist (LKA), High Beam Assist (HBA), and Driver Attention Warning (DAW).

While the Kona 2.0 litre has radar systems for its Blind-Spot Collision Warning (BCW) and Rear Cross-Traffic Collision Warning (RCCW).

The Kona is offered with two powertrains – the 2.0-liter Nu MPI engine and the Gamma 1.6-liter 4-cylinder direct-injected, turbocharged engine.

The 2.0-liter Nu MPI generates 149hp at 6,200 rpm and 180Nm at 4,000rpm while the 1.6 Gamma T-Gdi generates 177hp at 5,500rpm and 265Nm of torque from 1,500-4,500rpm. The turbo engine is coupled to a seven-speed EcoShift dual- lutch transmission (DCT).

The infotainment system offers connectivity features, including Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The standard seven-inch colour LCD display includes AM/FM/MP3 touchscreen audio, auxiliary input jacks, voice-command recognition and Rear View Monitor.

It also comes with a Heads-Up Display system located behind the instrument panel while the 1.6 Turbo offers offers Qi wireless charging for smartphones.

Colour variations allow buyers to further express themselves such as Chalk White, Lake Silver, Phantom Black, Pulse Red and Ceramic Blue. The 1.6 Turbo gets black colour-contrasting roof, providing high contrast between the body, roof and wheels.

Unique to the Kona is also its vibrant contrasting coloured seatbelts and interior trims. Grey coloured interior trims and black seatbelts are matched with the Lake Silver, Phantom Black, Blue Lagoon and Ceramic Blue exteriors; Red seatbelts and Red interior trims are paired with the Phantom Black and Pulse Red exteriors; and Lime seatbelts and Lime interior trims are paired with Chalk White.

Sonata

The new-generation Sonata is the first sedan designed with Hyundai’s Sensuous Sportiness design language.

The new Smartstream G2.5 powertrain offers dynamic performance with a smoother and comfortable driving experience, reduced emissions and better fuel efficiency. It is paired to a six-speed automatic transmission.

The new powertrain boasts 180hp at 6,000rpm and 232Nm of torque at 4,000rpm.

Gear selection is controlled by a new Electronic Shift Button (shift-by-wire) selector that makes for safer and precise gear changes.

Exterior-wise, the front features a newly designed Digital Pulse Cascading Grille that spans from the front and finishes at the innermost points of new combination headlamps.

A chrome line flows from the wing mirror, right around the side passenger windows, and returns to the front of the car by running down the length of the hood and ending at a sharp right angle beneath each headlight.

This chrome strip features graduated LED Daytime Running Lights embedded with Hidden Lighting Lamps.

Also a first for a Hyundai vehicle, Hidden Lighting Lamps are a design innovation that incorporates state-of-the-art lighting technology, forming the Sonata’s light architecture.

The Hidden Lighting Lamps appear to be chrome when switched off and become dramatically lit when turned on.

Inside, there the leather interior and the 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, which is customizable to suit different driving modes and preferences. At the centre of the dashboard is an infotainment 8-inch HD screen with the audio-video and navigation (AVN) functions.

You will also find a sunroof, electric parking brake, smart trunk, wireless smartphone charging pad with cooling fan, standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and split-folding rear seats.

In terms of safety, the Sonata has six-airbags, Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS), Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Hill-Start Assist Control (HAC), Brake Assist System (BAS) and the Vehicle Stability Management (VSM), Blind-Spot View Monitor and the Blind-Spot Collision Warning (BCW) system which scans for vehicles entering your blind spot.

The all-new Sonata comes in a choice 6 exterior colours: White Cream, Shimmering Silver, Nocturne Grey, Oxford Blue, Midnight Black and Flame Red.

The Oxford Blue and Flame Red exterior colours are matched with the black leather interior; Shimmering Silver exterior colour with the Greige two-tone leather interior; while the White Cream, Nocturne Grey and Midnight Black exterior colours are matched with the Camel two-tone leather interior.

WATCH LAUNCH VIDEO


Mercedes-Benz X-Class gets green light

                STUTTGART: Mercedes-Benz is going ahead with the X-Class that was previously introduced in Stockholm as a concept.

The German coach-builder has two engine options - 220 d or 250 d, and each can be had with rear-wheel drive or with the 4MATIC all-wheel drive system.

Market launch begins in November 2017 in Europe, with South Africa and Australia tagged for the beginning of 2018 and Argentina and Brazil at the beginning of 2019. No word for us folks in Asia just yet.

But here's a few details about the new X-Class that's priced from 37,294 euros (RM180,000).

There's going to be three trim parts for the cockpit, six seat covers including two leather variants with contrasting topstitching, and two colours for the roof lining.

The PURE will be the basic variant, followed by PROGRESSIVE that's meant for the those with higher requirements in terms of quality feel and comfort, and then there's the range-topping POWER as the high-end variant for urban lifestyles.

While a 258hp V6 will be released in mid-2018 and will feature a permanent all-wheel drive version, the X-Class will start things off with the 220 d with 163hp at 3,750rpm and 403Nm from 1,500 to 2,500rpm and a 250 d with 190hp at 3,750rpm and 450Nm from 1,500 to 2,500rpm.

The suspension is front double wishbone and rear multi-link setup and rolls on either 17 or 18-inch wheels with 255/65 or 255/60 series tyres respectively, which obscures the disc brakes all-round. The 19-inch wheels with 255/55 rubbers are meant solely for the 250 d variants.

Depending on variant, it can take on payloads ranging from 999 to 1,042kg and both engine variants can also be had with the 4MATIC all-wheel drive system.

The six-speed manual transmission is available for both engines, but only the seven-speed automatics can be had with the 250 d.

READ MORE: Mercedes-Benz X-Class at a  glance

At launch, customers will be able to add a styling bar, side bar, canopy, various covers as well as numerous cargo and off-road solutions – all developed and designed by Mercedes-Benz.

The suspension system will be tuned to typical Mercedes-Benz comfort, ventilated discs will be provided all-round and is being touted to be

For safety, the upcoming X-Class will include items such as Active Brake Assist, Lane Keeping Assist and Traffic Sign Assist, among others.

It will also come fitted with Mercedes me connect, allowing the owner to connect to their vehicle via smartphone at all times and can call up useful information such as the location of the vehicle or the fuel level, and navigate from door to door.


No need for commercial vehicles to get transport ministry endorsement letter

                PUTRAJAYA: Owners of commercial vehicles are not required to request for an endorsement letter from the Ministry of Transport (MOT) to operate during the Movement Control Order (MCO), the ministry said today.

"Restrictions will not be placed on commercial vehicles operating during the MCO," it said in a statement.

Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin had announced on Monday that the MCO would be enforced in six states - Penang, Selangor, the Federal Territories (Kuala Lumpur, Putrajaya and Labuan), Melaka, Johor and Sabah - from Jan 13 until Jan 26.

The Conditional Movement Control Order, meanwhile, is implemented in Pahang, Perak, Negeri Sembilan, Kedah, Terengganu and Kelantan, while Perlis and Sarawak are placed under the Recovery Movement Control Order for the same period.

The ministry said owners of commercial vehicles only needed to produce the verification letter from their employers when requested by enforcement personnel and special lanes would be designated at all roadblocks for them.

For other logistics companies, such as freight forwarders and warehouse operators that are registered with an association, the ministry said the endorsement could be obtained through their respective associations.

"This letter must be shown together with proof of membership in the association when requested by enforcement personnel at roadblocks," it said.

For companies that are not registered under any association or non-governmental organisation, an endorsement letter can be applied for at https://application.mot.gov.my/.

The ministry also advised public transport users to comply with the related standard operating procedures and guidelines as announced by the National Security Council, practice physical distancing, and maintain good hygiene as preventive measures to ward against Covid-19 transmission.


Kia brings all-electric concept car, autonomous driving and 5G tech

                SEOUL: South Korean car maker Kia has announced that it will present a new all-electric concept car in a worldwide premiere at the CES consumer technology show, which opens to the public on Jan 9 in Las Vegas.

For the time being, the manufacturer has merely revealed a few dark and shadowy images of the upcoming concept car, embodying its vision of the future of mobility. Onboard, Kia promises a new human-machine interface and an entirely reworked lighting system.

Kia will also be demonstrating self-driving technology and onboard 5G connectivity on its CES stand.


Bet everything on electric: Inside Volkswagen's radical strategy shift

                WOLFSBURG: If Volkswagen realises its ambition of becoming the global leader in electric cars, it will be thanks to a radical and risky bet born out of the biggest calamity in its history.

The German giant has staked its future, to the tune of 80 billion euros ($91 billion), on being able to profitably mass-produce electric vehicles - a feat no carmaker has come close to achieving.

A Reuters analysis of 29 global automakers found that they are investing at least US$300 billion in electric cars.

So far mainstream automakers’ electric plans have had one main goal: to protect profits gleaned from high-margin conventional cars by adding enough zero-emission vehicles to their fleet to meet clean-air rules.

Customers have meanwhile largely shunned electric vehicles because they are too expensive, can be inconvenient to charge and lack range.

The biggest strategy shift in Volkswagen’s 80 years has its roots in a weekend crisis meeting at the Rothehof guesthouse in Wolfsburg on Oct 10, 2015, said senior executives.

At the meeting hosted by then VW brand chief Herbert Diess, nine top managers gathered on a cloudy Saturday afternoon to discuss the way forward after regulators blew the whistle on the company’s emissions cheating, a scandal that cost it more than 27 billion euros in fines and tainted its name.

“It was an intense discussion, so was the realisation that this could be an opportunity, if we jump far enough,” said Juergen Stackmann, VW brand’s board member for sales.

“It was an initial planning session to do more than just play with the idea of electric cars,” he told Reuters. “We asked ourselves: what is our vision for the future of the brand? Everything that you see today is connected to this.”

Just three days after the Rothehof meeting of the VW brand’s management board, Volkswagen announced plans to develop an electric vehicle platform, codenamed MEB, paving the way for mass production of an affordable electric car.

For months after the Volkswagen scandal blew up in 2015, rival carmakers treated diesel-cheating as a “VW issue”, according to industry experts. But regulators have since uncovered excessive emissions across the sector and unleashed a clampdown that undermines the business case for combustion engines, forcing a sector-wide rethink.

Now the “villain” of dieselgate is likely to become the largest producer of electric cars in the world in coming years, analysts say, putting it in pole position to flood the market - should the demand materialize.

“Decisions to convert the Emden factory (in Lower Saxony) to build electric cars, would never have happened without this Saturday meeting,” said Stackmann, one of five senior VW executives who spoke to Reuters.

However the full scale of VW’s ambitions were only revealed two months ago when it took the industry by surprise by pledging to spend 80 billion euros to develop electric vehicles and buy batteries, dwarfing the investment of rivals.

It plans to raise annual production of electric cars to 3 million by 2025, from 40,000 in 2018.

Strategic perils

It’s a risky bet.

With regulators and lawmakers, rather than customers, dictating what kind of vehicles can hit the road, analysts at Deloitte say the industry could produce 14 million electric cars for which there is no consumer demand.

It’s also an all-or-nothing bet in the long run.

VW, whose ID electric car will hit showrooms in 2020, has set a deadline for ending mass production of combustion engines. The final generation of gasoline and diesel engines will be developed by 2026.

Arndt Ellinghorst, analyst at Evercore ISI, said betting on electric vehicles (EVs) could be risky because customers did not want to own cars dependent on street-charging facilities.

“What if people are still not ready to own EVs? Will adoption be the same in the US, Europe and China?” he said.

But he added that EU and Chinese emissions regulations made electric vehicle adoption inevitable and that being an early industry mover in that direction offered a “positive risk-reward”.

Another by-product of dieselgate that quickened VW’s electric drive, according to the senior executives, was a purge of the company’s old guard, who became the focus of public and political anger.

This empowered Diess, a newcomer who had joined as VW brand boss shortly before US regulators exposed the carmaker’s emission test cheating.

Diess, who joined from BMW where he helped pioneer a ground-breaking electric vehicle, has since been appointed CEO of Volkswagen Group, a multi-brand empire that includes Audi, Porsche, Bentley, Seat, Skoda, Lamborghini and Ducati.

Carmakers have failed to mass-produce electric cars profitably largely because of the prohibitive cost of battery packs which make up between 30 percent and 50 percent of the cost of an electric vehicle.

A 500 km-range battery costs around US$20,000, compared with a gasoline engine that costs around US$5,000. Add to that another US$2,000 for the electric motor and inverter, and the gap is even wider.

Even electric start-up Tesla’s cheapest car, the Model 3, is on sale in Germany at 55,400 euros, priced just below a base model Porsche Macan, a compact SUV. In the United States, Model 3 prices start at US$35,950.

VW believes its scale will give it an edge to build an electric vehicle costing no more than its current Golf model, about 20,000 euros, using its procurement clout as the world’s largest car and truck maker to drive down the cost.

“We are Volkswagen, a brand for the people. For electric cars we need economies of scale. And VW, more than any other carmaker, can take advantage of this,” a senior Volkswagen executive told Reuters, declining to be named.

The carmaker’s electric-vehicle budget outstrips that of its closest competitor, Germany’s Daimler, which has committed $42 billion. General Motors, the No.1 US automaker, has said it plans to spend a combined $8 billion on electric and self-driving vehicles.

Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi said in late 2017 they would spend 10 billion euros by 2022 on developing electric and autonomous cars.

“On a 2025 view, we expect Volkswagen to be the number one electric vehicles producer globally,” UBS analyst Patrick Hummel said. “Tesla is likely to remain a niche player.”

Stricter testing

VW’s test cheating using engine management software - “defeat devices” - resulted in the introduction of tougher pollution tests which revealed in 2016 and 2017 that emissions readings across the industry were up to 20 percent higher under real-world driving conditions compared with lab conditions.

This has raised the bar on the auto sector’s efforts to cut emissions of carbon dioxide, blamed for causing global warming.

EU lawmakers in December agreed a cut in carbon dioxide emissions from cars of 37.5 percent by 2030 compared with 2021 levels. This was after the European Union forced a 40 percent cut in emissions between 2007 and 2021.

“This goal is no longer reachable using combustion engines alone,” Volkmar Denner, chief executive of Bosch, the world’s biggest auto supplier, said about the 2030 proposals.

Every gram of excessive carbon dioxide pollution will be penalised with a 95 euros fine from this year onwards.

Strategy firm PA Consulting forecasts VW will face a 1.4-billion-euro penalty for overstepping average limits in Europe by 2021, while Ford and Fiat-Chrysler face fines of 430 million euros and 700 million euros respectively.

Daimler, BMW, PSA, Mazda and Hyundai will miss their 2021 average emissions targets, PA Consulting forecasts. Toyota, Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi, Volvo, Honda and Jaguar Land Rover are on track to meet their goals.

PA Consulting’s forecasts were extrapolated using 2017 registration data for each powertrain type and consumer buying trends, but do not include more recent sales trends.

Ford, VW and BMW said they would meet their targets because of a push to sell more hybrid and electric cars in 2018. Daimler said it aimed to meet the targets, PSA said it would respect the targets while Fiat-Chrysler declined to comment. Mazda had no immediate comment, while Hyundai did not respond to a request for comment.

Carmakers have struggled to lower their average fleet emissions because of a shift in customer taste toward heavier, bigger SUVs (sports utility vehicles), which make it harder to maintain the same levels of acceleration and comfort without increasing fuel consumption and pollution.

SUVs are now the most popular vehicle category in Europe, commanding a market share of 34.6 percent, according to JATO Dynamics. Even Porsche, which makes lightweight sportscars, relies on sports utility vehicles for 61 percent of sales.

As the industry-wide scale of excessive emissions prompted Brussels to push through tougher laws late last year, VW executives concluded that purely electric cars were the most efficient way to meet carbon dioxide goals across its fleet.

This was the point of no return, according to executives, when the company made the final electric investment decisions and committed to staying the course it had plotted after dieselgate.

“After evaluating alternatives, we opted for electromobility,” chief operating officer Ralf Brandstaetter told Reuters about VW’s deliberations in November.


Mercedes E 400 Avantgarde locked and loaded

                The double-headlamp styling of the second generation Mercedes-Benz E-Class (W210) which rolled out in 1995 became such a recognisable and popular feature that the car was affectionately called “tai sai ngan” (Cantonese for big small eyes) by local enthusiasts.

That “four-eyes” design was retained in the next two generations until advancements in headlight technology rendered it unnecessary for the E-Class to have headlamps in separate housing.

In the interest of preserving the E-Class’ recognisable styling, the headlamps on both sides are now in a single housing, use LED daytime running strips to mark out the “eyes.”

Aside from enhancing the sedan with a more polished and business-like appearance, the headlamps are also brighter and smarter.

It was during a night drive in the E400 Avantgarde on an unlit trunk road stretch from Bidor to Sungkai, Perak that we fully appreciated this upgrade.

Not only did the white LED lights gave a brighter and even spread over the dark road, they also had a longer range.

The awe comes once the smart high beam was switched on.

Unlike the smart high beam system in other Continental models that fully dips the beam to avoid dazzling oncoming vehicles, the E400’s intelligent system will only dip the portion that shines at the vehicles ahead.

With this feature, we could still keep some portions of the high beam on without irritating other road users.

To keep the E-Class among the best-selling luxury sedans in the country, the line-up comes with premium amenities for the comfort of its owners.

As the top variant of the E-Class, the E400 gets all the goodies, starting with the powerful and responsive bi-turbo 3.0-litre V6 block that pumps out 333bhp and 480Nm of torque.

Paired with a smooth-shifting 7G-Tronic Plus seven-speed automatic transmission, the E400 delivers a polished ride that the three-pointed star brand is well-known for.

Aside from endowing the car with refinement, the direct injection engine is also punchy and responsive, allowing the E400 to accelerate from 0-100kph in 5.3 seconds.

If not for its electronically capped top speed of 250kph, the E400 can go much faster.

With this sort of performance, the E400 is also a very fast cruiser and can easily outgun any hot hatch or sports sedan on local roads.

Despite the adrenaline-pumping performance, this large sedan which is fitted with large 18-inch wheels, still promises a low fuel consumption of 7.9-7.5l/100km.

The suspension, with comfort settings tuned in, easily absorbs shocks and jolts from rough roads from reaching the passengers inside.

This makes the E400 an ideal luxury vehicle for long distance journeys and travelling over poorly maintained roads.

At high speeds, the E400 feels planted and wind noises are kept at bay with good aerodynamics and sound insulation materials.

The electric power steering, which comes with mechanical direct-steering, is effortless to use besides allowing for a quicker response.

Inside, a 17.8-cm high resolution screen which displays infotainment data and satellite navigation takes centrestage on a dashboard that evokes build quality.

Enhancing the plush and spacious interior are soft-touch materials, leather seats, and Black Ash wood and metallic inserts.

Those at the rear are not only pampered with their own air-conditioner vents with air speed and temperature controls but also two 20.3cm-colour monitors for AV entertainment.

Adding to this sedan’s feel-good environment are the sunroofs for front and rear passengers.

The car also comes with a rare feature - double sun visors - so those at the front can conveniently block out the sun at the windscreen and windows at the same time.

A unique but convenient item is a retractable tray in the boot which comes in handy for holding grocery bags in place within the deep trunk that can hold several golf bags.

Other safety features include a radar-based collision warning system with adaptive brake assist that helps to reduce rear-end collisions and the Attention Assist which detects the drowsiness level of the driver and advises him to take a break.

While the Surround View Camera allows the driver to see all four sides of the vehicle from the dashboard centre for easier parking manoeuvres, he can even have the E400 park itself by switching on the Active Parking Assist.

By melding hi-tech wizardry with performance and luxury, the E400 is a smart and elegant choice for the well-heeled.
The on-the-road without insurance but with GST price for the E400 is RM490,888.


Facelifted Honda Accord on display at media bash - VIDEO

KUALA LUMPUR: Honda Malaysia today previewed the facelifted Accord at its media lunch event at a hotel here.

The car, dressed in Obsidian Blue Pearl colour, had windows that were heavily tinted to discourage photography of the interior. From what we could make out in the harsh noon-day lighting, the dash looked to have some tweaks to it.

Honda Malaysia announced on Monday that the refreshed ninth-generation Accord is now open for booking nationwide and that it will be launched "very soon."

As is common with most facelifts, the car gets new front and rear bumpers. It also comes with new lighting design to complement the forward front look with solid wing face design. The rear tail lights have been revised, and now feature LED combi lights bars. New alloy wheels are added to freshen it up further. The 2.0-litre and 2.4-litre engines remain unchanged.

Other than blue, other body colours are White Orchid Pearl and Lunar Silver Metallic as well as Modern Steel Metallic and Crystal Black Pearl.

The imminent debut of the Accord comes on the heels of the launch of the much anticipated Civic in June.

READ MORE:
Here's what we thought of the present Honda Accord
Honda Accord Hybrid introduced in Thailand
Honda report shows that it wants to be loved Front ends compared. Below is the outgoing Accord.


2019 Ford Mustang Shelby GT350 gets aerodynamic and chassis upgrades

                LAS VEGAS: If you're tired of hearing about exciting new performance upgrades being made to a car and then find they are only for the track focused versions, Ford is doing quite the opposite with the 2019 Mustang.

Instead of the chassis and aerodynamic upgrades for the 2019 model year being made to the Mustang Shelby GT350R, it's the road-going GT350 that's getting the treatment while the track-focused version will carry over.

On the surface the changes to the car won't be too obvious, perhaps apart from the GT350 getting the grille from the GT350R, but they're actually quite significant. As well as the aerodynamics, there are also upgrades to the suspension system and a bespoke set of summer tires from Michelin.

The Shelby gets a new rear spoiler that features a Gurney flap, which helps create additional downforce but without adding too much extra drag. The grille follows a similar theme with fewer openings in it than the current one so there's less drag at the front end. The spoiler, grille and new wheels are therefore the only visual signs separating the new model from the current car, but that's probably because Ford insists customers are more than happy with the way the car looks already.

For improved braking and better grip when cornering, Michelin was commissioned by Ford to produce a set of Pilot Sport Cup 2 tyres with a model-specific compound and tread pattern, although they're the same 295/35-19 section up front and 305/35-19 section at the back of the car.

Out of sight, the springs and shock absorbers have been revised so they're now 10 percent softer at the back and 10 percent firmer in the front, and the Magneride system's tuning, ABS and electronic power steering system have also all been improved.

It's not all about a firm ride and white-knuckle performance though, as the car also gets some attention paid to its driver and passenger comfort. Power adjustable seats with faux suede inserts are now available, as are faux suede inserts on the doors.

There's also an optional 12-speaker B&O Play sound system available if you want to listen to something other than the car's fabulous-sounding V8 engine and exhaust system when the car goes on sale early next year.