Unique McLaren coupes delivered

                LAS VEGAS: Ten unique McLaren sportscars that emulate the look and feel of a McLaren 570S GT4 race car but are fully road-legal have today been delivered to their new owners at a special McLaren customer event near Las Vegas, USA.

Commissioned as an MSO Bespoke project – the service from McLaren Special Operations (MSO) that allows almost limitless enhancement and personalisation of McLaren cars – the 10 MSO X cars were ordered by the US market’s largest McLaren retailer, McLaren Newport Beach.

Designed to mirror the external appearance of the McLaren 570S GT4 race car as closely as possible, the MSO X cars are deliberately finished in accordance with race car design practice and all have liveries inspired by McLaren F1 GTR endurance race cars of the mid-1990s.

The revised design of the MSO X cars optimises circuit aerodynamic efficiency, with each car featuring a 570S GT4-inspired, pylon-mounted rear wing that provides approaching 100kg of extra downforce. A fully functional ‘goose neck’ carbon fibre roof snorkel for enhanced induction airflow, inspired by the 1997 F1 GTR Longtail, additionally delivers a unique cockpit sound.

The transformation is completed by the inclusion of front dive planes, an MSO Titanium Super Sports Exhaust, Pirelli P ZERO™ CORSA tyres and a 570S GT4-style bonnet with specially constructed air intakes that work in conjunction with the roof snorkel and rear wing as a complete MSO aerodynamic package. Extensive use of satin finish carbon fibre across the entire bodywork, including roof, bonnet, side skirts and engine cover, as well as a unique rear bumper with ‘cut-outs’, helps to reduce weight.

“The MSO X collection is the perfect example of the rich vein of bespoke service offered by McLaren Special Operations. Customers come to us with their thoughts and ideas and MSO works with them to set boundaries within which they can then let their imaginations run wild. What could be better than a McLaren buyer playing the role of ‘race engineer’ in briefing the MSO team and directing them to test and validate those ideas to create a race-bred road car such as this?” said Jolyon Nash, McLaren Automotive Executive Director, Global Sales and Marketing.

The interior of each MSO X car features a track-oriented, minimalist design and is visibly different to any other McLaren Sports Series road car. The carbon fibre Monocell 2 chassis is deliberately exposed, complementing carbon shell bucket seats, exposed carbon fibre sill panels and a bespoke carbon fibre bulkhead that features stowage space for a race helmet.

The centre tunnel storage bin has been removed to save weight and the raised, carbon fibre centre console that features in the 570S GT4 further accentuates the racing intent. The MSO X cars are also equipped with a colour matched harness bar to hold the 6-point racing harnesses for track driving (in addition to regular three point belts) and McLaren Track Telemetry with a full suite of cameras.

Befitting the fact that the MSO X cars are designed to be driven on the road to reach a track, McLaren’s reputation for road car usability is at least partially retained, with parking sensors, rear view cameras, vehicle lift and race air conditioning on all the vehicles.

The MSO X commission progressed from an initial design discussion to all 10 examples being sold and delivered in just eight months, as McLaren Newport Beach Dealer Principal, Pietro Frigerio, explains: “The aim of this project was to have a serious track car that could still be driven on the road and this finished project screams ‘race car’ to the casual onlooker.To have the MSO X project go from renderings at the Goodwood Festival of Speed last July to the 10 magnificent supercars that we handed over to our excited clients today, is nothing short of amazing.”


McLaren shares its electric dreams

                GENEVA: McLaren is investing £1bil (RM5.9bil) over the next six years in order to develop 15 new supercars including hybrids and to weigh up the pros and cons of an all-electric ultimate series hypercar.

In the lead up to this year's Geneva Motor Show, McLaren surprised everyone with the the 570 GT, the most comfortable, luxurious, borderline practical supercar in the firm's six-year consumer automotive history. However, the surprises didn't stop there.

The most impressive announcements were about its ambitious plans for the future, something CEO Mike Flewitt calls "Track 22" as it covers the company's next six years in business. "Since its inception, McLaren Automotive has launched world-class products and this has been made possible by continuous investment in our future," he said. Therefore, the company is getting ready to plough 25% of its turnover - a £1 billion investment - back into the business. "This will see us launch 15 all-new cars or derivatives," continued Flewitt.

 Flewitt with the P1.

It will also mean the development of a new engine as well as a move towards hybrid powertrains. The company's current hypercar, the P1, is so ferociously fast because it uses a combination of gas and electric power and that type of technology is coming to the broader McLaren range. "Our next hybrid vehicle will launch towards the latter part of our six-year plan," Flewitt explained, "And we will see at least 50% featuring hybrid technology by 2022. Hybridisation has obvious CO2 and fuel consumption advantages but for us, it is all about delivering the performance and enjoyment of a McLaren."

But if the ‘standard' range of supercars boast hybrid power, its next ultimate series flagship will have to serve up something even more astounding and Flewitt confirmed rumors that the company has been exploring electric power: "Our engineers have even started work on a one-off prototype to evaluate the possible benefits of a fully-electric powertrain in an Ultimate Series car; such is the pace of development."

However, that car would be for the future. For now, the next McLaren scheduled for launch is the 570S Spider in 2017, and one thing that definitely isn't in the long-term business plan is a crossover or SUV. "[The] Business Plan confirms that [we] will remain proudly and fiercely independent by continuing to build the world's finest two-seater sports and supercars," said Flewitt.


Malaysian 2-wheel motorsports: AAM out, MAM in

                KUALA LUMPUR: The Motorsports Association of Malaysia (MAM) has been announced as the official governing body for all motorcycling activities in Malaysia at the FIM annual general assembly held in Monaco on Saturday.

This came after the FIM board of directors proposed a motion recommending the expulsion of automobile Association of Malaysia (AAM).

MAM in a statement on Monday noted that a Swiss-based sports law specialist Nicola Noth and Tan Sri Mokhzani Mahathir, who represented AAM and MAM respectively, presented their arguments to the delegates before a secret vote was taken.

The delegates then voted by more than the two-thirds required majority to expel AAM from the FIM. A second motion to accept the affiliation of the MAM was then taken and was accepted by unanimous decision.

"As the new governing body of Malaysia, MAM aims to further develop, support and ensure continuity towards Malaysian motorsports."

;The MAM delegation comprised Mokhzani and Muizz Azli while AAM was represented by Nik Muhammad Rafizan Nik Rashid and Noth.


This LaFerrari sold for US$7mil

                ORLANDO: A LaFerrari was auctioned off for US$7mil (RM31mil) over the weekend to become the most valuable 21st century automobile ever sold at auction.

The exclusive sale took place during the Ferrari Finali Mondiali weekend at the Daytona International Speedway in Daytona Beach, Florida.

The Italian automaker donated the luxury sports car at an auction held jointly between RS Sotheby's and the National Italian American Foundation's Earthquake Relief Fund.

All proceeds will be donated towards reconstruction efforts in the area of central Italy that was struck by an earthquake this year.

The LaFerrari features a red exterior, white dream line on the hood and rear windshield and small Italian flag on the hood.


VIDEO: The hoverboard is no longer fiction

                CALIFORNIA: Believe it or not, but the hoverboard has literally become a reality, thanks to the efforts of Lexus and its world leading partners in super conductive technology.

The biggest question remains – how?

The Lexus hoverboard operates using magnetic levitation to achieve its grand feat of frictionless movement via a combination of liquid nitrogen cooled superconductors and permanent magnets.

It’s been shaped like Lexus’ signature spindle grille and uses materials found in the Japanese luxury car brand, ranging from high technology to natural bamboo.

Over the next few weeks, Lexus will be testing its hoverboard in places like Barcelona, Spain over the coming weeks.

The Lexus Hoverboard is part of the fourth project in the Lexus ‘Amazing in Motion’ campaign that showcases the creativity and innovation of the Lexus brand.

"At Lexus, we constantly challenge ourselves and our partners to push the boundaries of what is possible,” said Lexus International executive vice president Mark Templin.

“That determination, combined with our passion and expertise for design and innovation, is what led us to take on the Hoverboard project,” he added.


Subaru teases 2019 Forester ahead of New York reveal

                NEW YORK: There are quite a few new versions of popular compact crossovers in the offing right now, and some of the less vaunted models are hoping to make big strides in this lucrative area of the market with some sharp new designs to tempt buyers away from the traditional big names.

Subaru has been playing with the idea of a pincer-shaped taillight design for some time now, but so far the concepts wearing them have never gone into production. That looks about to change now though as a teaser image of the 2019 Forester has been released ahead of the vehicle's official unveiling in New York next month.

It appears the new Forester is finally going with the kind of light design Subaru concepts have been wearing for a while now, but it's intriguing that the Japanese automaker has chosen to tease the rear of the new model and not the front.

There's a good chance the 2019 Forester will take a few other styling elements from the stunning VIZIV Future concept Subaru first revealed at the Tokyo Motor Show way back in 2015, which it's been updating and rehashing to some degree ever since. However, don't expect a full-blown production version of VIZIV because that's definitely not what we're going to be getting with the new Forester.

It's thought the new Forester will take more styling cues from the latest Subaru Ascent as that's more like what's been seen with camouflaged prototypes of the new Forester that have been spotted out on road tests.

The new model will be a little larger than the outgoing Forester, but the growth isn't likely to be too substantial. After migrating to Subaru's Global Platform that the new Forester will also use, the much smaller Impreza gained a little more cargo space, but not much extra for passengers.

No word has yet been given about what will be powering the new Forester, but it would make sense for it to adopt the 2.4-litre turbo that produces 260hp in the Ascent as it's just a little more powerful than the Forester's current 2.0-litre.

The New York Auto Show, set to open March 30 after two press days March 28-29, will be the venue for the official unveiling, and the 2019 Forester will be arriving in showrooms later this year.


GM races to build a formula for profitable electric cars

                DETROIT: General Motors chief executive Mary Barra has made a bold promise to investors that the Detroit automaker will make money selling electric cars by 2021.

What Barra has not explained in detail is how GM intends to do what, so far, no major automaker has done.

The answer is a big bet on combining proprietary battery technology, a low-cost, flexible vehicle design and high-volume production mainly in China, according to six current and former GM and supplier executives and six industry experts interviewed by Reuters.

If GM can meet Barra’s ambitious profitability target, then it will house two different businesses by the mid-2020s: A traditional focus in North America on trucks, sport utility vehicles and cars fueled with petroleum, and a global electric car company centered in China, branching into pay-per-use services such as robotaxis.

Barra’s promise to turn a profit is a bold claim in a market segment that has been driven more by government policy than consumer demand, and where Tesla Inc - the world’s largest electric-vehicle manufacturer - is burning through more than US$1 billion in cash each quarter selling premium-priced vehicles.

Barra and GM have invested heavily in the electrification strategy, and worked during the past year to persuade investors that GM can compete with Tesla by building on the success of the automaker’s latest electric vehicle, the Chevrolet Bolt EV, and cutting costs along the way.

A key element of the plan, according to two people familiar with the company’s strategy, is slashing the amount of cobalt in GM’s new EMC 1.0 battery system. The price of cobalt – the single most costly ingredient in current lithium-ion battery cells - has soared in the past two years in expectation of a surge in demand from automakers. Cobalt prices hit a record high this month on the London Metal Exchange.

GM’s new battery design increases the amount of nickel, which enables batteries to store and produce more energy, said these people.

GM engineers are also working on other design and technological advances, according to executives and company patent filings, including more efficient packaging of batteries in vehicles and improved systems for managing energy flow and cooling the battery cells.

Without providing details, GM has said it expects these changes to cut the cost of battery cells by more than 30 percent, from US$145 per kilowatt-hour to less than US$100 by 2021.

Battery experts said the full cost of a GM battery pack, such as the one used now in the Bolt EV, is US$10,000-US$12,000, or nearly one-third of the car’s US$36,000 sticker price.

By 2021, however, that price could drop to US$6,000, according to consultant Jon Bereisa, a former GM engineering director who helped develop the Chevrolet Volt hybrid and spearheaded much of the automaker’s early lithium-ion battery development.

With improvements in battery chemistry and packaging, Bereisa said, the next-generation Bolt “could deliver a 45-percent increase in range for about the same (battery) pack cost, or the same range at 45 percent less pack cost.”

Pam Fletcher, vice president in charge of GM’s global electric vehicle programs, and other GM executives would not comment on specifics of the new battery system, which is slated to be introduced in 2020-2021.

To be sure, electric vehicles account for only a small fraction of global auto sales. Like other manufacturers, GM is banking not only on reducing its own costs and improving vehicle performance, but also on increased demand driven by higher government-mandated electric vehicle quotas in China that are intended to help reduce pollution and the country’s dependence on petroleum.

In addition to improving battery and vehicle design and performance, GM is working with Chinese partner SAIC to reduce the cost of assembling electric cars. Sources said GM and SAIC are designing dedicated electric vehicle factories in China that are far smaller, less complex and more efficient than a conventional car plant.

GM has more capital for electric vehicle development because of Barra’s decisions to sell money-losing European operations, exit other unprofitable markets and invest in a new generation of highly profitable, petroleum-fuelled large pickup trucks, launching later in 2018.

The automaker now has more than 1,700 engineers, designers and researchers working on batteries and electric vehicles, many of them at the GM Technical Center in Warren, Michigan, where the company opened a dedicated battery research center in 2009, a week after it filed for bankruptcy reorganization.

Automotive experts say GM’s battery and EV group is one of the largest in the world, rivalled only by Toyota Motor Corp in Japan and Daimler AG in Germany.

Toyota has patented more battery technology in recent years than GM, although its focus has been mainly the Prius family of hybrid gasoline-electric vehicles, rather than on pure battery-powered cars like GM’s Bolt EV.

GM was issued 661 US patents on battery technology from 2010 through 2015, the latest that such data is available from the United States Patent and Trademark Office, trailing only Toyota’s 762 battery patents among global automakers.

In addition to the battery work, GM engineers are developing a new dedicated “plug and play” structure for its next-generation electric vehicles that is flexible and modular, meaning it will be able to accommodate battery systems of different sizes, as well as hydrogen fuel cells, one of the sources said.

In an interview, Mark Reuss, head of global product development, said GM’s strategy to reduce battery cost is not tied to a single improvement such as a change in battery chemistry, but rather a series of continuous enhancements in battery technology and packaging.

“There are no silver bullets here,” Reuss said. GM also has not solved all the problems required to achieve its goal, he said. “It’s called ‘product development’ for a reason,” he said.

The most recent developments and enhancements in battery technology have not been made public, according to GM’s Fletcher.

“There’s a lot of stuff that we choose not to patent because we don’t want to make it visible” before the new technology goes into production, Fletcher told Reuters.

GM’s patent history since 2010 shows a focus on improvements in battery technology, packaging and processing, some of them designed to help boost the battery’s energy and extend vehicle range between charges, according to company filings.

GM jointly developed its current battery know-how with Korea’s LG Group, which makes batteries and electronic components for the Bolt. Introduced in October 2016, Bolt was the first mass-produced electric vehicle to go more than 320km between charges, and sell at a sticker price of under US$40,000. GM sold 23,297 Bolts in 2017.

Tesla reported producing just 1,770 of its US$35,000 Model 3 sedans in 2017, well short of the company’s original targets.

The launch of the Bolt and its warm reception by reviewers, customers and investors was a watershed event for Barra and GM’s top management.

“It was a ‘holy shit’ moment that made us rethink what might be possible,” said one GM insider.


2019 Mercedes-AMG GT S Roadster: Open-air joy

                STUTTGART: Mercedes-AMG is extending its sports car portfolio with the new AMG GT S Roadster as an attractive open-air model.

With this latest addition the AMG GT family now has a dozen members: four two-door Coupés, three Roadsters, two customer sports racing cars and three four-door Coupés.

The basis for the high Driving Performance of the new AMG GT S Roadster is the combination of a lightweight aluminium spaceframe, a V8 biturbo engine, a seven-speed dual clutch transmission, a rear axle locking differential and a sport suspension with aluminium double wishbone axles.

Compared to the AMG GT Roadster, the AMG GT S Roadster is rendered even more dynamic by numerous modifications to the engine, suspension, brakes, design and interior.

This positions it between the AMG GT Roadster and the even more powerful AMG GT C Roadster, now providing a choice of three open-top two-seaters.

The AMG 4.0-litre V8 biturbo in the AMG GT S Roadster delivers an output of 384 kW (522 hp) and maximum torque of 670 Nm. This is available over a wide engine speed range from 1900 to 5000 rpm.

A sprint from standstill to 100 km/h is absolved in 3.8 seconds. The dynamic power delivery continues right up to the top speed of 308 km/h.

Power transfer is based on the combination of a front mid-engine and the AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 7G sport transmission.

The AMG GT S Roadster is equipped with the AMG RIDE CONTROL suspension with adaptive damping adjustment as standard.

The driver is able to set the AMG GT S Roadster to his/her individual requirements using the AMG DYNAMIC SELECT controller.

Five drive modes, "C" (Comfort), "S" (Sport), "S+" (Sport Plus), "RACE" and the individually programmable setup "I" (Individual) are available.

The active air regulation system AIRPANEL included as standard is a particular technical highlight.

Vertical louvres at the bottom of the front apron are opened and closed electronically by means of an electric motor in around one second to guarantee the required amount of cooling.


Old Miti letter for travel still valid until June 3, say police

                PETALING JAYA: Police will allow the use of existing letters issued by the International Trade and Industry Ministry (Miti) for work-related travels until June 3.

In a press conference today, Petaling Jaya OCPD Asst Comm Mohamad Fakhrudin Abdul Hamid said many are still using the old letter.

"Some have said the new ones are still pending, while others have said that they have just applied the night before. So, as per the orders of the state police chief, we will allow the use of the old letters when we inspect cars at our roadblocks until June 3.

"We have also advised them to go through their employers to apply for the new Miti letter, or letter of authorisation from the respective ministries," he said, adding that once the grace period is over, police will proceed with issuing compounds.

Earlier today, Petaling Jaya police inspected two factories in the area for Covid-19 SOP compliance.

"I am pleased to see that the factories here, especially the big ones, have been very compliant.

"Our checks will be continuous, and so far, we have inspected 24 locations," he said.

On road block updates, ACP Mohamad Fakhrudin said that 10 mobile roadblocks will be mounted in the district.

In a statement, he said that six permanent roadblocks in Petaling Jaya will be enforced. They are at Subang toll plaza, Sungai Buloh toll plaza, Kota Damansara toll plaza, Damansara toll plaza, Federal Highway and Taman Kannagapuram.


Italy has room for second major automaker, says minister

                MILAN: Italy has room for another mass-market carmaker beyond Stellantis NV to protect local jobs and meet a rising demand for electric vehicles, Industry Minister Adolfo Urso said.

The country is relatively unique among European auto heavyweights in having only one mass-market manufacturer in the multinational Peugeot and Fiat maker, Urso told Bloomberg News in a recent interview.

"Stellantis produces over one million vehicles in France, while in Italy it’s less than a half of that,” the minister said. "It’s the country with the highest delta between production and market demand.”

The Italian government is taking an increasingly active role in reshaping the country’s industry and institutions - from bidding for Telecom Italia SpA’s network via its state lender to approving restrictions on the Chinese owners of Formula 1 supplier Pirelli SpA.

Italy’s auto lobby has called for the state to invest in Stellantis - formed from the merger of PSA Group and Fiat Chrysler - amid worries of job losses as the sector transitions away from the combustion engine.

France’s 6.1% stake in Stellantis is seen as an example of how Italy should protect its own national interests.

Still, the government in Rome remains cautious. Finance Minister Giancarlo Giorgetti dismissed the notion of a direct investment in Stellantis at Bloomberg’s Italy Capital Markets Forum earlier this month.

Stellantis is planning to cut as many as 2,000 jobs in Italy this year, some 4.3% of its workforce in the country.

At the same time, the manufacturer has pledged to boost production at its Melfi plant in southern Italy and is moving ahead with plans for a battery factory in Termoli. It’s also turning its iconic Turin facility into an EV hub.


Bookings open for Lexus UX 200: RM244K to RM300K

                KUALA LUMPUR: Bookings are now opened for the imported Lexus UX 200 compact crossover which comes in three variants, with on-the-road prices without insurance at RM243,888 (Urban); RM283,888 (Luxury) and RM299,888 (F Sport).

It is sold with a five-year unlimited mileage warranty, and aftersales support is available at seven locations across Malaysia.

All variants are front wheel drive, and powered by a 2.0-litre petrol VVT-iE intelligent variable valve-timing engine producing 169hp at 6,600rpm and 205Nm at 4,800rpm mated to a 10-speed direct-shift CVT (continuously variable transmission).

The UX 200 is billed as combining the best of attributes and versatility of an SUV (sport utillty vehicle) with the sleek and elegant styling of a hatchback.

Developed on the latest Global Architecture-C Platform that creates a more stable and dynamic chassis, highlights include its fluid lines and distinctive spindle grille, and the Lexus Safety System + (LSS+).

“It is truly a product of creative engineering by Lexus led by its first female chief engineer. It is beautifully styled in the spirit of Engawa (Japanese traditional architecture seamlessly to connect inside with the outside). It also includes high-end Japanese design elements as Sashiko upholstery (Japanese stitching technique). The UX is the first Lexus model to offer a new trim grain finish that’s inspired by the grain of Japanese paper know as Washi, familiar in traditional Japanese home,” said Lexus Malaysia deputy chairman Akio Takeyama.

The base UX 200 Urban variant has 17-inch wheels, 3-beam LED projector headlamps, power retractable side mirrors, rear air-conditioning vents, a six-speaker Lexus Premium Audio system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, 7-inch display screen, and powered eight-way front seats.

Standard safety systems include Front Pre-Collision System (PCS), Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC), Lane Keeping System, Adaptive High-beam System (AHS), Active Cornering Assist (ACA), Vehicle Stability Control System (VSC), Hill-Start Assist, reverse parking assist monitor, eight airbags and whiplash injury lessening seats.

Paying the extra RM40,000 for the Luxury variant gives you 18-inch wheels and run flat tyres, rain sensing wipers, auto folding side mirrors, roof rails, powered back door with hands-free kick-open function, powered steering column, eight audio speakers including sub woofer, a 10.3-inch display screen, three-memory function for driver's seat, Blind Spot Monitor (BSM), Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA) and a Panoramic View Monitor.

Extra kit on the range-topping F Sport variant includes Adaptive Variable Suspension, Rear Performance Damper, paddle shifters and Heads-up Display (HUD).

Lexus UX 200 (Urban trim): RM243,888

- 215/60 R17 tyres
- 3-Beam LED Projector Headlamps
- Power Retractable side mirrors
- Leather Texture & Black Paint interior
- Push Start Ignition
- dual zone air conditioning
- rear air con vents
- Electric Parking Brake with Auto Brake Hold
- Lexus Premium Audio, 6-speaker,
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- 7-inch display screen
- Power 8-way front seats
- Front Pre-Collision System (PCS)
- Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC)
- Lane Keeping System
- Adaptive High-beam System (AHS)
- Active Cornering Assist (ACA)
- Vehicle Stability Control System (VSC)
- Hill-Start Assist
- Reverse Parking Assist Monitor
- 8 airbags
- Whiplash Injury Lessening Seats

Lexus UX 200 (Luxury trim): RM283,888

- 225/50 RF18 Run Flat tyres
- Rain sensing wipers
- Auto folding side mirrors
- Roof Rails
- Power Back Door With Hands-free Kick-open Function
- Japanese Paper Grain & Metallic Ornament interior
- powered Steering Column
- Lexus Premium Audio, 8-speaker including Sub Woofer,
- 10.3-inch display screen
- 3 Memory function for driver's seat
- Blind Spot Monitor (BSM)
- Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA)
- Panoramic View Monitor

Lexus UX 200 (F SPORT trim): RM299,888

- Adaptive Variable Suspension
- Rear Performance Damper
- Leather Texture & Metallic Ornament interior
- Paddle shifters
- Heads-up Display (HUD)


MazdaSports Academy for CX-5 owners postponed

                KUALA LUMPUR: The “Advance Driving” programme for Mazda CX-5 owners will be rescheduled to another date.

In a statement, Mazda car distributor Bermaz Motor said the event which was due to take place on October 13 and 14 (8am till 4pm; Saturday and Sunday) at MAEPS (Malaysia Agro Exposition Park Serdang) was postponed until further notice.


Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia donates a Triton pick-up truck to Insaf Malaysia

                SHAH ALAM: Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia (MMM), contributed a Triton 4X4 pick-up truck to Insaf Malaysia, a non-profit organization (NGO) carrying out humanitarian efforts.

The Triton will be used by Insaf Malaysia especially for transporting food items for those that have been victims of poverty and natural disasters.

Other programmes of the NGO include distribution of food bank, lunch boxes and rice bags to orphanages and welfare homes as well as ‘Meals on Wheels’ where food are distributed to old folks who have been abandoned or living alone.

The NGO also builds shelter homes for those that have been affected by natural disasters and are in dire need for a roof above their heads.

MMM chief executive officer Tomoyuki Shinnishi said the company's CSR vision for this year is ‘Inspiring Lives Today for a Greater Future’.

"Our missions are to implement CSR activities that provides aid to support underprivileged children, and to collaborate with NGOs in promoting a sustainable economy, society and environment.

"So when we found out that Insaf Malaysia’s humanitarian efforts is constantly striving for voluntarily action, we want to support their work by contributing a Triton pick-up truck in hopes that the NGO can go beyond the distance and to help more underprivileged families,” said Shinnishi.

 Ishak (left) receiving the mock key of the Triton from Shinnishi.

At the handover ceremony, Insaf Malaysia president and founder Ishak Abdul Kadir said the contribution of the Triton pick-up truck was timely, practical and very much appreciated.

“We have been witnessing a dangerous trend from the number of people suffering from malnutrition and food insecurity especially during this pandemic.

“We are doing all that we can to make sure children or families don’t go to bed hungry hence we are so glad to have companies like Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia reach out to us to offer help," he said.


Meet the Nissan GT-R Drone

LONDON: Nissan unveiled on Thursday the GT-R Drone – one of the fastest accelerating FPV (First Person View) racing drones in the world.

Built to be able to keep up with the new 2017 Nissan GT-R while filming on the track, the drone features the latest in performance-enhancing technology – just like its automotive equivalent.

Custom designed by World Drone Prix Champions, Tornado XBlades Racing, the GT-R Drone uses a special race-tuned configuration and low-drag canopy to reach 100kph from a standstill in just 1.3 seconds.

To show off the talents of both machines, the GT-R Drone took on the road-going supercar around the challenging Silverstone circuit.

Both machines use advanced technology and engineering to extract the maximum performance, both in a straight line and through corners. The GT-R car transfers power from its twin-turbocharged 3.8-litre 24-valve V6 to all four wheels; the GT-R Drone delivers high acceleration via four propellers mated with 2000kV XNova motors and race specification Sky-Hero quadcopter frame.

The race saw Nissan NISMO driver Ricardo Sanchez take the wheel of the new GT-R with James Bowles, the 2015 British National Drone Racing champion, piloting the GT-R Drone around a purpose-built 1.9km course at Silverstone.

The new 2017 GT-R represents the most significant changes to the car since the R35 model was first introduced in 2007. Unlike the drone, the GT-R features new aerodynamic features which are designed to keep it firmly on the ground.

While the drone can out-accelerate the car, wheels soon catch up with rotors: the GT-R Drone has a top speed of 185kph, versus 315kph for the car.

Even the four-wheel-drive system of the GT-R can’t match the agilty of the drone though, which has a turning circle of just 0.3m. Its custom setup allows it to perform heart-stopping manoeuvres with incredible precision and agility.


Samsung-Fiat talks stall amid Note 7 crisis

                SEOUL: Fiat Chrysler Automobiles NV’s talks with Samsung Electronics over a partnership with its car-parts unit have stalled because the Korean company is focused on resolving the Galaxy Note 7 smartphone crisis, according to people familiar with the matter.

Fiat and Samsung also haven’t agreed yet on the valuation of Magneti Marelli and the structure of a deal, said the people, who asked not to be identified because the negotiations are private.

While the discussions haven’t been dropped, it’s unlikely that an accord will be signed by the end of the year as planned because Samsung’s priority now is managing the Note 7 phone issue rather than pursuing large deals, they said, adding that the two companies are still interested in exploring a partnership.

South Korea’s largest company on Wednesday cut its third-quarter operating profit outlook by US$2.3 billion (RM9.8 billion) after ending production of its fire-prone Galaxy Note 7 smartphones.

Fiat declined to comment on the status of talks with Samsung, while the latter said in an e-mailed statement it doesn’t comment on rumors or speculation.

Fiat chief executive officer Sergio Marchionne, who dropped his push for a merger with another automaker last year, has increasingly turned his attention to technology providers.

In March, he offered to assemble cars for Apple Inc. and in May announced a cooperation project with Alphabet Inc.’s Google on driverless vehicles.

For Samsung, a move into automobile components would help decrease its reliance on consumer electronics.

Fiat has a market value of about 7.4 billion euros (RM35 billion).

Samsung was in advanced talks to buy some or all of Marelli, people familiar with the matter said in August.

The South Korean manufacturer was particularly interested in Marelli’s lighting, in-car entertainment and telematics business, the people said at the time.

Marchionne said on Aug 27 that Samsung is a “potential strategic partner.”

Chairman John Elkann confirmed in September that Fiat is “holding talks to strengthen Magneti Marelli in the future” because “components are important in the evolution of cars and there is increasing need for electronics.”

He said Marelli is in talks with several potential partners, including Samsung.

Selling part of Magneti Marelli would help Marchionne reduce its debt, moving closer to what analysts consider the most challenging part of his five-year strategy: turning 5.5 billion euros (RM26 billion) of net industrial debt into a cash pile of at least 4 billion euros (RM18 billion).

Achieving the goal at the end of 2018 would put Fiat Chrysler, the first major carmaker to strike a deal with Google on driverless vehicles, in a better position to find a partner.

Marchionne, who plans to leave the helm of Fiat in 2019, contends that the auto industry needs consolidation to finance investment in new technology.


Stellantis, Foxconn to form connectivity-focused car technology JV

                DETROIT: Carmaker Stellantis and iPhone assembler Foxconn plan to create a joint venture to supply in-car and connected-car technologies across the auto industry, they said on Tuesday.

The two companies have signed a non-binding memorandum of understanding to form Mobile Drive, a 50-50 joint venture based in the Netherlands focused on infotainment, telematics and cloud service platform development.

Stellantis chief executive Carlos Tavares said the partnership with Foxconn was one of the bricks in the group's business plan, which is expected between the end of this year and the beginning of 2022

"It is a 'must' of our future strategic direction," he said.

The partnership however appears less extensive than the market had expected, after Fiat Chrysler, now part of Stellantis, said last year it was planning to set up a joint venture with Hon Hai Precision Industry, Foxconn's parent company, to build electric cars and develop Internet-connected vehicles in China.

The deal also leaves open questions on how Stellantis plans to pursue one of its main goals, a relaunch in Asia, where it currently makes less than 3% of its revenues.

Stellantis chief software officer Yves Bonnefont said the decision to enter a joint venture with Foxconn was mainly driven by the need to move fast and to access the best expertise available.

No financial details of the tie-up were disclosed.

Mobile Drive will operate as an automotive supplier, aiming to provide software systems and related hardware both to Stellantis and other interested automakers, the companies said in a joint statement.

The software developed will include artificial intelligence-based applications, 5G communication, upgraded over-the-air services, e-commerce opportunities and smart cockpit integrations, to connect software and apps to the car's wider systems.


Volkswagen Malaysia gets new MD

Winter (left) and Steiner.
KUALA LUMPUR: Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM) has appointed Erik Winter as its new managing director with immediate effect, replacing Alin Tapalaga, who is returning to Europe, citing "health reasons".

Winter will oversee the company’s Brand and Human Resource operations.

No stranger to the automotive retail scene, Winter brings with him the experience and expertise garnered from 16 years serving under Porsche Holding Salzburg’s (PHS) numerous business units around the globe.

Previously based in China, where he was responsible for the retail operations of one of the brands represented by PHS, Winter and Florian Steiner, VPCM managing director for Aftersales, Information Technology and Finance, will focus on strategies to boost Volkswagen market share, dealer network and aftersales.


Mitsubishi Motors says sticking with China despite poor sales

                TOKYO: Mitsubishi Motors Corp. has refuted reports that it plans to bow out of China as competition among automakers there continues to intensify.

"No decisions have been made about leaving the market but it has become clear we need a plan to overcome difficulties in China,” chief executive officer Takao Kato told reporters at a media briefing in Japan today.

Mitsubishi Motors’ plant in Changsha, Hunan province suspended production in March.

The Japanese carmaker’s joint venture partner, Guangzhou Automobile Group Co. (GAC), then didn’t list the production and sales numbers for Mitsubishi for the first time in April, triggering speculation the two companies were cutting ties.

A representative from GAC said the omission was made because Mitsubishi’s production numbers make up a small portion of its total and they were therefore folded into the "others" category.

Kato said today Mitsubishi’s plant will reopen in June as planned, although circumstances remain difficult.

Mitsubishi’s Outlander isn’t selling well in China, Kato said, where local firms like Warren Buffett-backed BYD Co. are dominant as Japanese makers continue to stagnate or slide.

The automaker’s retail sales in China dropped to 32,000 units in the third quarter and those numbers are expected to decline again for the quarter that ended March, the company said today.

"We’re discussing with our partners in China on how to move forward,” Kato said. "We’re watching the situation closely.”


Fuel supply to normalise by May 9, say petrol dealers

                PETALING JAYA: The shortage of petrol is likely due to refilling issues caused by massive jams on the highway, says the Malaysian Petrol Dealers Association.

"The issue isn't that there isn't enough petrol in the country because there is enough but it's getting it from the depot to the stations along the highways that's the problem.

"A variety of factors are affecting this, with the large amount of fuel purchased during the Raya holidays being the main one.

"You can see the horrible traffic jams and everybody is travelling. That shows you that sales would be extraordinary and because of that the stations are drying up faster but there are issues getting refills on time," said association president Datuk Khairul Annuar Abdul Aziz.

As of now, the shortages are mainly at pumps along highways, he said, with those in cities and townships still operating normally.

He added that the situation is expected to normalise by tomorrow.

A shortage of petrol along major highways has brought frustration and anger among road users returning from the Raya break.

Many took to social media to vent their frustration after finding that many petrol stations had run out of RON95 petrol, with only the pricier RON97 available.

The price of RON95 petrol from May 5-11 is RM2.05 per litre and RM3.94 per litre for RON97.

Adding fuel to the fire was a shortage of cash at ATMs.

One irate Twitter user, Shasya Edora asked: "What is happening? No fuel at the east coast region from Besut to Kuantan. Many cars are parked at the sides (of the road).

"Before going back from Shah Alam to Kemaman, was trying to fill the car. Surprisingly, RON95 out of stock, first time it happened," she tweeted.

Another Twitter user, @winn3risg, said there has been a major petrol shortage since yesterday in Penang.

"It's madness this year, major gridlock. No fuel. When want to return home suddenly, car has a problem," tweeted @izzatyysahkrii.

Heavy traffic has been reported on several major highways heading towards Klang Valley as people return home after the holiday season.


The EV charging buildout has a problem: many stations don’t work

                NEW YORK: Fear of drained batteries is a big barrier for many US drivers considering ditching gasoline-powered cars.

Many US public charging stations fail to work when electric-vehicle drivers need them, according to a new J.D. Power report that underscores the Biden administration’s challenge in building out a network of stations nationwide.

In a survey of more than 11,550 drivers, the firm found that one in five didn’t manage to charge their vehicle during a visit to a station. Of those that didn’t get their vehicles charged, 72% blamed faulty equipment.

Diminished driver satisfaction with the patchwork network of US charging stations threatens to slow the pace of electric-car sales—a key piece in President Joe Biden’s plan to slash carbon emissions.

Fear of drained batteries, after all, is a key barrier for many drivers contemplating ditching gasoline-powered vehicles.

“Public charging continues to provide challenges to overall EV adoption,” Brent Gruber, executive director of global automotive at J.D. Power, said in a statement. “We need to make sure those stations are reliable.”

The infrastructure law that Biden signed last year devotes US$5 billion to building a nationwide network of EV charging ports along major travel corridors, with stations spaced no more than 50 miles apart.

But the J.D. Power survey, conducted with EV data firm PlugShare, suggests that merely deploying those chargers won’t be enough to convince sceptical car buyers to try an EV.

Respondents gave the highest satisfaction ratings to Tesla Inc.’s chargers, both its high-speed Superchargers and its slower destination chargers often found at hotels and restaurants.

Among the most common types of public chargers—known as level 2 chargers—ports deployed by Volta Inc. and ChargePoint Holdings Inc. scored second and third in satisfaction, respectively.


VW-led research team to recycle batteries multiple times for the first time

                WOLFSBURG: Partners from the industrial and scientific communities want to jointly prove that the most valuable components of traction batteries can be recovered and reused several times in succession through recycling.

The HVBatCycle research consortium has the goal of keeping cathode metals, electrolyte and graphite permanently in a closed material cycle (closed loop).

Under the leadership of the Volkswagen Group, TANIOBIS GmbH, J. Schmalz GmbH and Viscom AG are working together with researchers from RWTH Aachen University, TU Braunschweig and the Fraunhofer Institute for Surface Engineering and Thin Films (IST) for three years to research and develop the necessary processes.

The project is funded by Germany's Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action.

In order to have to use fewer materials from primary sources such as mines or salt flats, essential raw materials are to be recovered not just once, but several times.

To this end, battery cells made from recycled material are recycled again, thereby also proving that even multiple recycling runs have no influence on the material quality.

Closing the loop requires complex interdisciplinary processes. For efficient and ecologically and economically sensible recycling, all processes must be coordinated with each other in order to produce sorted and high-quality secondary materials under the highest safety requirements.

This is about scalability and economic efficiency in particular.

The consortium project focuses on the mechanical-hydrometallurgical recycling route, which is characterised by low energy requirements and the possibility of a comparatively simple decentralised distribution of certain recycling processes in Europe.

This favours a local circular economy and secures strategically important raw materials, which significantly reduces Europe’s dependence on other regions of the world.

The HVBatCycle project aims to identify efficient processes and innovative solutions that ensure the establishment of an end-to-end value chain with high economic efficiency while, at the same time, maximising recycling and energy efficiency and minimising environmental impact.


Join the Mitsubishi Xpander Venture event at Dataran Karnival Shah Alam from Jan 14-15

                SHAH ALAM: Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia is holding the Mitsubishi Xpander Venture event at Dataran Karnival, Perkarangan Shah Alam, here from Jan 14-15.

The event, which is open with free admission from 10am to 6pm, allows the public to experience the rugged capabilities of Xpander seven-seater crossover.

Among the obstacle course is the Devil’s Angle will see participants go through a water-wading stretch to showcase Xpander’s versatility to handle rough roads or flash floods with its high ground clearance of 205mm.

 Pix from Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia Facebook.

Another stirring course is the Side Traverse, which is specially designed to test Xpander’s agility and superior handling.

Besides those, other courses include Log & Roll which is to experience the superior suspension and overall cabin comfort of the Xpander.

Visitors can also test the Roller Conveyer which recognises Xpander’s excellent safety where the car’s Traction Control helps to maintain traction on slippery or rugged surfaces.

 Pix from Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia Facebook.

Last but not least, visitors can also try the Agility Challenge to test Xpander’s tight turning radius of 5.2m.

This challenge showcases Xpander’s turning done effortlessly with easier maneuverability, especially in tight spaces such as shopping mall parking bays or small and winding countryside roads.

 Pix from Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia Facebook.

To provide a carnival-like environment, visitors can also expect the following excitements:

> Test drive and receive exclusive Mitsubishi Motors caps,
> Test drive and stand to win attractive lucky draw prizes such as Nintendo Switch, G Shock, and North Face Jacket,
> Book an Xpander or Triton pick-up truck and receive an 8oz Stanley lifestyle tumbler,
> Crowd interaction with Malaysian celebrities - Sharifah Shahirah, Jan 14 (Saturday) at 12pm, Bell Ngasri on Jan 15 (Sunday) at 12pm and Sherry Alhadad on Jan 15 (Sunday) at 3pm.
> Free flow of cotton candy, ice-cream, and fun activities for the whole family.

In conjunction with the New Year festivities, customers who book and register a new Xpander can choose to enjoy either a low monthly installment rate starting from RM798, or low-interest rate of 2.38% valid with Maybank or Public Bank only.

Customers may also opt for a special trade-in programme that offers RM2,000 support for customers who trade in their existing car for a new Xpander.

These promotions are on-going until March 31.

The Xpander Venture event will also be making its way to Toppen Mall outdoor carpark, Johor Baru on Feb 4-5 and Kompleks Sukan Likas, Kota Kinabalu on March 4-5.


Toll charges expected to be abolished in stages

                PETALING JAYA: The government has decided to abolish toll charges gradually and in phases, in line with Pakatan Harapan’s general election pledge to the people.

Sources say that while a study currently being conducted on toll charges will only be finished by June, at least one concessionaire has offered to give rebates and discounts to road users in the meantime.

“It was agreed that tolls would be abolished over time but it will be phase by phase, not immediately,” a source with direct knowledge of the matter said.

According to Works Minister Baru Bian, the government would only make a final decision after the study was submitted.

He said one or two toll concessionaires had come up with several proposals that could be implemented in the meantime.

“In fact, we are looking at it at the short term, medium term and long term. There are some proposals that are feasible and can be implemented in the immediate future for the short term.

Abolishing tolls was one of Pakatan Harapan’s pledges in its manifesto for the 14th General Election last May.

But Pakatan has not been able to deliver on it after winning power due to the massive debts left behind by the previous administration,

In June last year, Lim said the promise to abolish road tolls would only be looked at once Malaysia’s financial situation had improved.

In November, Works Minister Baru Bian told the Dewan Rakyat that there were 29 highways with tolls in the country.

Of the 29, the concession for two would end in 10 years’ time, while agreements for another 16 would end between 11 and 20 years’ time.

The remaining 11 are highways where tolls will be collected beyond the next two decades.

Baru also told Parliament that his ministry had been given six months to negotiate with the stakeholders and concessionaires.

Federation of Malaysian Consumers Associations secretary-general Datuk Paul Selvaraj welcomed the upcoming announcement on tolls.

He said any move to help Malaysians reduce the rising cost of living would benefit not just the bottom 40% households (B40 group) but the middle 40 (M40) households as well.

“Other than housing, transport is a major concern raised by consumers. The last mile connectivity of our public transport is still not good enough for urbanites to rely solely on public transport, so many people have no choice but to drive.

“This means they have to pay for parking, get stuck in jams and pay tolls,” Selvaraj said.

READ MORE: Highway operators say no easy way out for govt


Proton X70 Merdeka Edition introduced, priced at RM126,100

                SUBANG JAYA: Proton today launched its first limited production SUV when it unveiled the Proton X70 Merdeka Edition (ME) at its dealer, Ming Heng Motor’s 4S showroom, in Setapak, Kuala Lumpur.

Available only as a Premium variant X70, 62 units of the X70 ME will be offered at RM126,100 in snow white or flame red only.

The number of units being built coincides with the 62nd anniversary of Malaysia’s independence. Proton is aiming to wrap up the sales of the special edition during the Merdeka month of August, based on current demand levels for the SUV.

Mechanically, the X70 ME is identical in specification to a regular Premium variant of the SUV. The differences are made up of an exterior styling package and some additional interior trim.

For the exterior, a signature paint colour called Quartz Black has been added to the roof and A-pillar. Door visors have also been added all-around together with a rear bumper scuff plate and, as a finishing touch, a customised Merdeka Edition emblem has been mounted on the tailgate.

Inside, Proton have added new floor mats, a trunk mat and a special numbered Merdeka Edition emblem to make each vehicle unique. The Nappa leather seats and glass roof along with the Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) found on the Premium variant are all carried over in the ME.

“The Proton X70 Merdeka Edition was born out of Proton’s desire to celebrate Malaysia’s Merdeka anniversary month. We are extremely thankful for the support Malaysian car buyers and the Malaysian government has shown to Proton, so this is the company’s way of creating a special version of the X70 as a small gesture of thanks to all Malaysians,” said Proton CEO Dr Li Chunrong.


February petrol prices down

                PETALING JAYA: Here's some good news. Petrol prices from Feb 1 have been revised downwards from its January prices.

For the second month of 2016, RON95 will be priced at RM1.75 per litre (10 sen less from January), RON97 at RM2.05 (less 20 sen) while diesel will go on sale at RM1.35 (less 25 sen).

The price Euro 5 diesel will also go down by 15 sen to RM1.45.

Petrol Dealers Association of Malaysia president Datuk Hashim Othman confirmed the new pricing when contacted.

The Domestic Trade, Co-operatives and Consumerism Ministry decided to set the prices of petrol and diesel on a managed float system from Dec 1 last year following a removal of all fuel subsidies.

Since then, fuel prices have been going down as world prices also took a beating.

January prices saw a reduction from the December prices with RON95 selling at RM1.85 per litre (RM1.95 in December), RON97 at RM2.25 (RM2.45), diesel RM1.60 (RM1.90) and Euro 5 diesel RM1.70 (RM2).


Dr M: Proton was a success

                LONDON: Still championing his cause for a third national car project, Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad rubbished claims that Proton was a failure.

At a dialogue session with about 200 Malaysians in the United Kingdom, he argued that the first national carmaker had achieved much success under good management, according to Bernama.

He said Proton had accumulated RM4bil in reserves and built a plant in Tanjung Malim with its own money without asking for government assistance or borrowing from the bank.

According to him, Proton had been a success until foreign cars were allowed to enter the country unrestricted, with conditions imposed on the sale of Malaysian cars in other countries.

“If you keep buying foreign cars, you will lose a lot of money every year,” he was quoted as saying by the national news agency.

At the 24th Nikkei Conference on the Future of Asia in June, Dr Mahathir revealed that his government was planning to work on a new national car project.

However, many Malaysians did not respond positively to the suggestion, asking instead that the public transport system be improved.

In the London dialogue session, the prime minister continued to champion the third national car project, but reiterated that the government will have to ask the private sector to implement it as Putrajaya does not have enough money.

“Then you develop vendors and create businesses producing parts. This will create jobs for the people and generate a lot of business for small businesses,” Bernama quoted him as saying.

He said a national car would allow Malaysia the opportunity to develop the engineering sector and increase its skills and knowledge.

“It’s not just about the car, but the engineering possibilities which the car can lead to as well as the stimulation of other areas of economic functions,” he added.


World premiere of the Volkswagen I.D. VIZZION in Geneva

                WOLFSBURG: After presenting the first all-electric vehicles of the new I.D. Family models , the Volkswagen brand is now showing, for the first time, a concept of an autonomously driving automobile which makes it debut at the Geneva International Motor Show.

Volkswagen is currently advancing the development of modern vehicles in all areas. The goal: to apply innovative technology to making the automobile cleaner, safer and much more convenient and comfortable.

With these new qualities, the car will be able to further extend its significance and value for future mobility. Furthermore, use of this car will be made possible for customer groups who cannot drive today, e.g. because of their age.

The new I.D. VIZZION concept car is the fourth member of the Volkswagen I.D. Family.

With its innovative technology, fully-automated operating concept and elegant form, the premium class saloon is showing the direction Volkswagen is taking in the technology and design of its future electric models.

Inside the I.D. VIZZION, engineers have systematically exploited the potentials of autonomous driving.

The ‘digital chauffeur' with its many assistance systems assumes control of the vehicle – without a steering wheel or visible controls.

For the ‘driver' and passengers this signifies a new dimension of safety and comfort.

The concept car drives, steers and navigates autonomously in traffic, enabling passengers to freely structure their time during the drive.

A virtual host, with which passengers communicate via voice and gesture control, knows the personal preferences of the vehicle guests – thanks to complete embedding into the digital eco-system – and it adapts to each of them individually.

The system power of the 5.11 metre long I.D. VIZZION is 225kW. Its top speed is 180 km/h (111 mph). The 111 kWh lithium-ion batteries enable a driving range of up to 665km when braking regeneration is factored in.

Based on its intelligent management, the two electric motors cooperate with maximum efficiency and drive all four wheels of the saloon.

The I.D. VIZZION clearly demonstrates the great potential of the all-electric architecture from Volkswagen.


Hankook CEO arrested on bribery charges

                SEOUL: Cho Hyun-bum, chief executive of Hankook Tire & Technology, South Korea’s top tyre maker, was arrested today on charges that include allegations of taking bribes, a court spokesman said.

Hankook Tire declined to comment. Hankook was not able to provide details of Cho’s lawyer.

Family-controlled Hankook Tire is one of the world’s top 10 tyre makers, whose customers include Hyundai, Ford and Volkswagen.

A court here had issued the arrest warrant for Cho late today. Yonhap News Agency reported that prosecutors charged him with taking around 500 million won (RM1.8mil) in kickbacks from suppliers and misappropriating funds at affiliates.


Ducati Scrambler 1100 Special

                The new Ducati Scrambler 1100 comes in three variants, which are the Standard, Special and Sport.

With the Standard model being the base variant, the Special comes with spoked wheels for that retro 'scrambler' look as well as a lower bar, chromed exhaust, brown leather seat and a brushed swing arm.

The Sport model has similar wheel design like the Standard model, but the design of spokes has been further enhanced - as was the headlight that was inspired by the tape that Scrambler riders use to stick on their headlight during the Scrambler's heyday.

You will be able to see the 'X' in the headlight and at night it looks very retro.

From the day the Scrambler was launched, it was all about lifestyle and riding pleasure.

Speed was never part of Scrambler’s narrative and the design of it is similar to the Ducati Scrambler 800.

At a glance, onlookers will realise its great finishes.

The most obvious one to the naked eye are the black aluminium spoked wheels, 18 at the front and 17 at the rear, an aluminium front/rear mudguard, brown seat, chrome exhaust pipes and gold-coloured anodized fork sleeves.

It is also available in ‘Custom Grey’ with a black frame.

While riding this bike to Frasers Hill, I realised that the seat was not only comfortable but wide enough for my tiny bottom to move around and helps to ease fatigue.

I have no complaints on the ergonomics of this bike. My hands were positioned on the handle bar slightly wider than the knees and were able to mange it without any issues.

However, a riding buddy of mine tried it for a good hour and he felt that those with shorter arms might find it bit uncomfortable on a long ride unless the handlebar reaches closer to the riders.

While cruising at above the legal speed limits on highways, the Scrambler 1100 Special does not seem to have a great amount of horsepower and torque that I was looking for.

This 1,079cc machine produces 84.5hp at 7,500rpm and 88Nm of torque at 4,750rpm, however, what this machine offers is smooth power delivery that's complemented by a decent amount of torque when needed.

Believe me, the torque was good enough for overtaking a Ducati Diavel for a short bit and at any engine revs, there were no vibrations at all.

The Scrambler 1100 Special engine was derived from the Ducati Monster 1100 EVO and the engineers at Ducati’s headquarters in Bologna redesigned it to meet the needs of the Scrambler 1100.

So, the Monster lives in the Scrambler, only everything else is different.

The bike comes with three riding modes which are City, Journey and Active.

City offers a smooth and pleasant throttle response which is ideal for a city commute while Journey is programmed for long distance cruising.

Active unleashes more power with less intrusion from the four-stage Ducati Traction Control (DTC).

Before I forget, this bike is simply easy to handle in the worst traffic congestion that I have encountered.

I got caught in a heavy rain where I was soaked to the bone. Traffic was crawling and it looked like a huge parking lot.

I was able to weave in and out of the traffic by paddling the bike or riding it in first gear.

The bike was light enough for me to paddle and at low rpm, it did not stall at all.

The 810mm brown seat and the high foot pegs allowed me to stand up and look ahead of traffic. I think I was the envy of all car drivers who were caught in their vehicles - seething with frustration.

While going up and coming down Frasers Hill, I encountered all sorts of corners and the bike handled it very well.

I could flip the bike easily from left to right as the Scrambler 1100 felt light in the hands.

This gave me the confidence to tackle all sorts of corners and twists without stressing myself.

Meanwhile the chassis of the bike and the suspension allowed me to ride with confidence.

Ground clearance was decent due to the high foot pegs, but my only complaint was that the stock suspension was too stiff for my liking.

Thus my advice to all owners is to find the right suspension setting that suits their riding style.

It will take a few rides before one can find the ideal setting.

On few wide and sharp corners, I was able to hold the line without any problems.

I am quite sure that the Bosch inertial measurement unit (IMU) was running silently in the background and was partly responsible for keeping me upright.

The IMU feeds lean angle information into the algorithms controlling the ABS and Traction Control systems.

Meanwhile, I have no complaints about the Brembo brakes and have yet to fail me - be it rain or shine or sudden hard stops or casual braking.

The Scrambler 1100 Special, priced at RM80,746 (before SST), should be recommended to any seasoned or novice riders who seek a cool ride that offers an unforgettable riding experience.

SPECIFICATIONS - Ducati Scrambler 1100 Special

Engine: 1,079cc L-Twin, Desmodromic distribution, two valves per cylinder, air-cooled

Maximum power: 84.5hp at 7,500rpm
Maximum torque: 88Nm at 4,750rpm
Transmission: Six-speed,

Front suspension: Marzocchi fully adjustable 45mm fork with 150mm travel
Rear Suspension: Kayaba adjustable for preload and rebound with 150mm travel

Front brake: 2 x 320mm semi-floating discs, radially mounted Brembo Monobloc callipers, 4-piston with ABS
Rear brake: 245mm disc, 1-piston floating calliper with ABS

Features: Ride By Wire, Bosch inertial measurement unit (IMU), Ducati Traction Control

Fuel tank capacity: 15 litres

Dry weight: 189kg

Price: RM80,746 (before SST)


China's auto industry wastes no time coaxing drivers back to showrooms after lockdown

File pic of people walking near the showrooms of Chinese and foreign car dealerships in Beijing in October, 2018. — Reuters
BEIJING: China’s auto industry has gone from zero to sixty in its post-pandemic campaign drive, with manufacturers and dealers quick to woo back lockdown-weary consumers through campaigns as unusual as a makeup-promoting personality touting car leasing.

Social media celebrity Lipstick King urged millions of fans on a live-streamed shopping show to sign up to a lease deal for General Motors Co’s Cadillac CT4 compact sedan.

“This colour has the sense of ‘I’m in charge’ independence,” he said, displaying a scale model of a chocolate-coloured car.

The plug is just one part of an eruption of promotional campaigns featuring steep discounts, cold-calling and gimmicks, from an industry obliterated by government restrictions on movement imposed in January to curb the spread of a virus which in China has infected 81,000 people and caused 3,300 deaths.

The economy shrank 21% in January-February with sales in the world’s biggest vehicle market last month plunging 79%.

Retail sales of passenger cars dropped 45% in the first three weeks of March, and the China Association of Automobile Manufacturers does not expect demand to normalise until the third quarter.

With authorities gradually easing restrictions, automakers and dealers have started the engines on their promotional machinery to undo what consulting firm IHS Markit described as an “unprecedented and almost instant stalling of demand”.

US electric vehicle (EV) maker Tesla Inc has launched test-drive and delivery services involving no staff contact, while Zhejiang Geely Holding Group Co Ltd is delivering disinfected cars and dropping off keys with drones.

The EV unit of Guangzhou Automobile Group Co Ltd is even testing a system to perfume its Aion LX SUV with the aroma of traditional Chinese medicine.

SAIC-GM-Wuling (SGMW) - a venture between SAIC Motor Corp Ltd, US maker GM and a local partner - on Feb 25 started offering up to 11,000 yuan (RM6,700) off purchases of its Wuling and Baojun brand vehicles, until the total discounts given reach 1 billion yuan (RM615mil). Buyers also get medical masks.

Seeing the promotion, restaurateur Wang Zhiyuan, 37, visited an SGMW dealership in Beijing earlier this month and received a 2,000 yuan (RM1,220) discount on a Wuling Hongguang commercial MPV.

Family sauna equipment supplier Mo Xiufeng, 40, was at the same dealership viewing the same vehicle to make a purchase he had been chewing over since before the lockdown.

“I haven’t been able to come in the meantime because, fearing the virus, I didn’t want to leave my home,” he said.

The dealership sold just 20 vehicles in February. It targets March sales of 100, versus an average of 500 before the virus.

Due to the campaign, SGMW’s nationwide is a picture of even quicker recovery. A spokesman said March registered at least five days of sales surpassing 5,000 vehicles, with one day reaching 6,000, exceeding last year’s daily average. At the beginning of February, sales were around 200.

No inventory

Still, industry bodies have called for government help including purchase tax cuts on small vehicles, support for sales in rural areas and eased emission rules.

The China Automobile Dealers Association has lobbied for loans to dealerships and temporary liquidity support such as credit lines.

Local authorities in cities that rely heavily on vehicle manufacturing, such as Guangzhou in the south and Ningbo in the east, have also started to offer purchase incentives.

Visits to showrooms by a Reuters reporter and telephone interviews with 50 dealerships across China indicate the campaigns are indeed bringing shoppers back.

A Beijing dealership for a joint venture between Dongfeng Motor Group Co Ltd and Japan’s Honda Motor Co Ltd, however, has a problem beyond footfall that is likely to leave March sales in “single digits” versus the usual 100.

“The problem now is we don’t have enough cars in inventory,” said the sales manager.

Dongfeng Honda is based in the city of Wuhan where the virus was first reported at the end of last year, and where business activity has been restricted for two months. A Honda spokesman said production at the venture was gradually increasing.

“The manufacturer said new cars would not arrive until mid-April,” the sales manager said, standing in a deserted showroom.


Ford F-150 gets 637Nm of torque and 10-speed gearbox

                DETROIT: America's most popular vehicle is now also one of its most innovative and impressive thanks to a reworked V6 EcoBoost engine that can serve up a remarkable 637Nm of torque and a 10-speed automatic transmission.

It seems that Ford's latest Le Mans win has really stirred up a performance obsession at Ford's HQ and that no car, no matter how big or small, is safe from getting a huge injection of engineering innovation or simple out-and-out power.

The latest to benefit is the F-150 pickup - the company's most popular vehicle in the US and one that's just as much a calling card as a hot hatchback, a European specification Mustang, or a return to the supercar market with the Ford GT.

For 2017 it is getting a second-generation twin-turbo 3.5-litre EcoBoost V6 engine that will send 375hp to the wheels and 637Nm of torque - that's 10hp and 68Nm more than the current model.

"The 2017 Ford F-150 now delivers the best torque in the segment," said Raj Nair, Ford executive vice president, Product Development, and chief technical officer.

And it's a segment that includes diesel engine and V8-powered competitors and that's what makes the innovation so impressive.

However, Ford isn't stopping with a power boost, that new-generation is being mated with a 10-speed automatic transmission. "[It is] a transformative 10-speed automatic that improves nearly every aspect of F-150 performance," said Nair.

Since opting for EcoBoost technology in its F-150 range rather than the usual V8, Ford has had to go to great lengths to highlight that losing two cylinders was not going to diminish performance even though the new engines are much more environmentally friendly than their predecessors.

It's also why the new Ford GT supercar has gone with six rather than eight cylinders to show that it's a serious alternative, even when the cars the GT is competing with have eight, 10 or 12 cylinders.

However, what the GT can't claim but the humble pickup can is that it is the first mass-produced consumer vehicle in history to come with a 10-speed automatic gearbox as standard. Even the latest super hot Mercedes sedans and coupés have to make do with a nine-speed transmission.

The 2017 Ford F-150 will go on sale this fall.


Angka-Tan Motor to launch JMC Vigus Pro 4X4 pick-up truck soon

                KUALA LUMPUR: Angka-Tan Motor Sdn Bhd  is set to expand its portfolio of vehicles following the appointment of ATM by Jiangling Motors Co., Ltd (JMC) as the official distributor of the JMC Vigus Pro 4x4 pick-up truck in Malaysia.

The collaboration between Angka-Tan Motor and JMC was sealed after both parties signed the Vehicle Technology Licensing agreement on July 1 last year whereby JMC granted Angka-Tan Motor the sole right to manufacture, assemble and sell the Vigus Pro 4x4 pick-up truck and related parts and components in Malaysia.

Angka-Tan Motor also plans to offer the Vigus Pro 4X4 across 13 sales and service outlets nationwide.

Warisan TC Holdings Bhd CEO Tan Keng Meng said Angka-Tan Motor and JMC were ready to introduce an "exciting contender" in the popular pick-up segment.

“The stylish and technologically advanced Vigus Pro 4x4 pick-up truck has proven its mettle in the Chinese market and we can’t wait to share this new product with pick-up fans across Malaysia,” he said.

JMC president Xiong Chunying said the company is a leading manufacturer and exporter of light commercial vehicles in China, and was thrilled to offer Malaysian consumers a versatile yet attractive pick-up truck engineered with the latest technologies.

“JMC has been standing as the second best-selling brand in the pick-up segment in China for many consecutive years,” said Xiong.

Prices and detailed specifications of the Vigus Pro 4x4 are expected be revealed this month.

The Vigus Pro 4X4 can be viewed at Angka-Tan Motor’s flagship showroom in Klang, Selangor. Bookings can be made at the nearest dealers or by calling 03-3359 6068.

For details, visit jmcmalaysia.com of follow JMC Malaysia on https://www.facebook.com/jmcmalaysiaofficial.

Key specifications of the Vigus Pro 4X4:

• 2.0L TDI 4-cylinder with VGT turbo diesel engine
• 141PS at 3,600rpm and 340Nm of torque from 1,500rpm to 2,600rpm
• Eight-speed ZF automatic with manual shift mode
• BorgWarner 4WD System with 2H, 4H and 4L modes
• Rear Differential Lock by Eaton
• Class-leading fuel economy at 7.8L/100km
• Rear-view camera


BMW Motorrad Malaysia offers new aftersales and warranty extension for owners

                PETALING JAYA: BMW Motorrad Malaysia has introduced three new aftersales care programmes – The BMW Motorrad Engine Oil Inclusive, Service Inclusive and Warranty Extension for its new and existing premium motorcycle customers in Malaysia.

BMW Motorrad Malaysia is offering two programme options of three years (or 30,000km) or five years (or 50,000km) for its first ever Engine Oil Inclusive programme.

The programme offers regular engine oil services which also includes BMW ADVANTEC genuine oil and filter replacement for all new and registered BMW motorcycles dated under 10 years from first registration.

With Service Inclusive, customers are covered in terms of Valve Clearance Check, Fork Oil Check, Transmission Oil Change, Spark Plug replacement, Brake Fluid Change, Air Filter Change, CVT Belt Replacement, Fuel Filter Change and Rear Axle Oil Change.

The BMW Motorrad Warranty Extention programme offers an added extension of the manufacturer’s warranty after the expiration of the statutory warranty period, including corrective work repairs with BMW genuine parts.

The add-on programme can be purchased as an additional one-year or two-year package above and beyond the manufacturer’s warranty, which was raised to a standard of three years for BMW motorcycles registered from Jan 1, 2019.

The programme is available on offer for new and registered motorcycles dated 90 days from its first registration, but excludes the BMW Motorrad offering of the Roadside Assistance programme introduced earlier this year.

Harald Hoelzl, Managing Director of BMW Group Malaysia said, “A complete peace of mind ownership experience is the key to premium expression of a vehicle from the BMW Group. It is also how we differentiate ourselves to create value for our customers in the premium automotive industry.”


Honda's electric, autonomous work vehicle showcases the future in construction site trial

                LOS ANGELES: Honda has been testing a second-generation prototype of its electric, autonomous work vehicle, capable of transporting a maximum load of 400kg on any construction site.

Although it is not yet ready for commercial release, the vehicle has been tested in real-world conditions on a construction site in the United States, where it successfully performed its functions.

This Honda Autonomous Work Vehicle - or AWV - was used by the American engineering and construction company Black & Veatch on a construction site in New Mexico.

For one month, this fully electric and autonomous prototype fulfilled a whole series of missions on a vast solar-energy construction project. This included transporting construction equipment, as well as water and various supplies.

This vehicle is capable of carrying loads of up to 400kg and towing a 750kg trailer.

Range is estimated at a minimum of 45km, with the maximum load, and more depending on the vehicle's uses. It can therefore be operational over an entire working day, bearing in mind that it takes six hours to recharge its batteries.

Originally, the AWV was a concept dating back to 2018 combining an off-road platform with advanced autonomous driving technology.

The result today is a new class of vehicle, capable of operating in a variety of working environments.

It uses sensors, cameras, GPS, radar and LiDAR to operate fully autonomously, find its way around and avoid potential obstacles. Note that it can also be remotely controlled.

For the moment, Honda has not announced commercialisation plans for the vehicle, but companies wishing to test it can request a trial.


Naza Premira streamlines sales and after sales-operations

                PETALING JAYA: Naza Premira centralised three brands (Piaggio, Vespa and Aprilia) at the Piaggio Motoplex Concept Showroom at the Naza Automall, Petaling Jaya.

This will enhance the quality of sales experience for consumers in terms of giving them a total holistic view of the three brands, which are now housed under the same facility.

Naza Premira also streamlined its after-sales division for Piaggio Group products with the set up of the Naza Premira Technical Centre, situated within the Naza Automall, Petaling Jaya compound.

Alternatively, owners can also service their bikes at the authorised service centres nationwide.

All authorised service centres in Malaysia have been given a complete technical training from Naza Premira after-sales division and technical trainer from Piaggio Asia Pacific in Hanoi, Vietnam.

All authorised service centres are now equipped with an exclusive Piaggio Advance Diagnostic System (P.A.D.S) that can perform several technical analyses such as downloading the Electronic Control Unit (ECU) Data that can be reset and reprogrammed while remapping and checking error code for any trouble shooting.

“By streamlining the after sales division we have gained good support from our authorised service centres hence there is an increment of 200 per cent for Piaggio brand parts sales nationwide. We are currently holding more than RM2 million worth of parts and accessories and our authorised dealers holding more than RM300,000 worth of parts and accessories."

"With this initiative, we ensure that our customers will have an ease of mind when buying any of our products where we provide complete services via our sales, service and spare parts,” said Farouk Faisal, chief operating officer of Naza Premira Sdn Bhd.

The Piaggio Motoplex Concept Showroom will have its official launching in the second quarter of 2017.


Infiniti sets up short usage showrooms to assist new centre start-ups

                ROLLE (Switzerland): Infiniti is introducing a chain of short usage showrooms across Europe to allow new centres to start operating whilst their main facility is under development.

Capitalising on the introduction of three all new products being introduced this year, 12 bespoke 28m2 short usage centres have been constructed to accommodate the opening of new centres across Europe. The first of these new centres has already been deployed in Bristol, UK with more due to appear across Europe in the coming weeks.

“We have been overwhelmed with interest in the Infiniti Q30,” said François Goupil de Bouillé, Infiniti Vice President, Europe, Middle East and Africa. “The short usage showrooms are an ideal way of sharing the Infiniti Q30 and the rest of the range with as many people as possible in locations where a permanent Infiniti Centre is yet to open. It is a typically innovative Infiniti initiative.”

Visitors to the short term showrooms will be able to see and experience the Q30 and its many features, arrange a test drive and use iPads to configure their ideal specification in a unique augmented reality display. They will also be able to explore the premium brand and the rest of the model range on a big screen while enjoying traditional Infiniti hospitality in the climate-controlled environment. Consultants will be on hand to answer questions and assist with orders for cars including the new Q30, already the fastest-selling Infiniti ever to go on sale in Europe.

Each showroom is built with large glazed areas for an open, welcoming feel. The layout, design and finish are inspired by Infiniti’s unique concept of customer hospitality, as offered by the permanent Infiniti centres. The “plug ’n play”showrooms are designed to be easily transported by truck and can be put up in two days.

The innovative retail initiative comes at a time of rapid growth for Infiniti and in the middle of a product offensive that is seeing more new cars and a wider spread of premium Infiniti models than ever before.

Since the beginning of the year the all-new Q30 premium active compact is on sale. At the upcoming Geneva Motor Show the brand-new sports coupe Q60, the premium active crossover QX30 and the upgraded Q50 will be making their European premieres.


Ford EV customers to gain access to 12,000 Tesla Superchargers

                DETROIT: Ford Motor Company said it has reached an agreement with Tesla Motors that will provide Ford electric vehicle customers access to more than 12,000 Tesla Superchargers across the US and Canada, doubling the number of fast-chargers available to Ford EV customers starting spring 2024.

A Tesla-developed adapter will provide Ford F-150 Lightning, Mustang Mach-E and E-Transit vehicles fitted with the Combined Charging System (CCS) port access to Tesla’s V3 Superchargers.

Ford will equip future EVs with the North American Charging Standard (NACS) charge port, removing the need for an adapter for direct access to Tesla Superchargers, starting in 2025.

“Tesla has led the industry in creating a large, reliable and efficient charging system and we are pleased to be able to join forces in a way that benefits customers and overall EV adoption,” said Marin Gjaja, chief customer officer, Ford Model e.

“The Tesla Supercharger network has excellent reliability and the NACS plug is smaller and lighter. Overall, this provides a superior experience for customers.”

The BlueOval charging network is already North America’s largest public charging network with over 84,000 chargers including access to over 10,000 public DC fast-chargers.

Adding more than 12,000 Tesla Superchargers creates the single largest integrated fast-charge network across the US and Canada, designed to significantly reduce charge anxiety for Ford customers, with automatic routing to the nearest charger and seamless billing via FordPass.

Additionally, Ford dealers are adding roughly 1,800 public-facing fast-chargers and locations to the BlueOval charge network by early 2024.


Nio to make self-developed battery packs from 2024

                SHANGHAI: Chinese electric-car maker Nio said that in 2024 it will start making high-voltage battery packs that it has developed itself, as part of a drive to improve profitability and competitiveness to take on rivals such as Tesla.

Nio, plans to start producing an 800-volt battery pack in the second half of 2024, its chairman William Li told analysts on a call on Thursday.

Most electric vehicles operate with 400-volt batteries while Porsche's Taycan electric cars are powered by 800-volt lithium-ion battery packs, which recharge faster.

Li said Nio - which has over 400 employees working on the research and development of battery technologies - also plans to use a combination of self-produced and externally sourced batteries in the long run, a plan similar to Tesla's.

Li said Nio plans to use self-produced battery packs for its new mass-market marque, which is expected be ready for sale in the second half of 2024. These new models are expected to be priced around 200,000 to 300,000 yuan (up to RM198,000), he added.

Nio said battery costs would have risen in the second quarter after the renewal in April of an agreement with its sole battery supplier CATL.

The company said on Thursday its net loss narrowed to 1.8 billion yuan in the first quarter from 4.9 billion a year earlier.

But Nio forecast deliveries of between 23,000 and 25,000 vehicles in the quarter ending June 30, down from 25,768 in the first quarter, reflecting a general drop in production by major automakers as a result of a two-months long COVID-19 lockdown in Shanghai.


Electric car stores will be restricted in US state of Mississippi

                JACKSON, (Mississippi, USA): Mississippi governor Tate Reeves signed a bill Tuesday restricting electric car manufacturers from selling vehicles in person unless they open franchised dealerships.

Defying calls from some fellow Republicans in the Legislature to veto the measure, Reeves enacted into law House Bill 401, introduced by Republican Rep. Trey Lamar of Senatobia.

The law will force electric car companies such as Tesla and Rivian to sell vehicles through franchises rather than company-owned stores, which is how they currently operate.

"Almost 200 small businesses in communities across our state are seeking assurances that big manufacturers can’t just destroy their businesses. That’s fair!” Reeves, a Republican, said in a statement posted to social media.

"I also recognise that innovation in this industry is inevitable. And with innovation comes new companies with new business models. I am committed to find long-term solutions-in an ever changing market.”

The bill does not restrict the sale of electric cars, as people can buy them online. But if they want to buy an electric car in person, they would have to drive to the state’s only Tesla store in Brandon, which will be allowed to remain open under the new law.

Tesla or any other electric car company could not open a new brick-and-mortar location to sell cars unless they enter a franchise agreement.

Before the bill passed in a bipartisan 39-13 vote on March 3, it sparked an intraparty debate among GOP lawmakers.

Opponents said it would interfere with the automobile market and stop electric carmakers from bringing new technology and jobs to the state.

Proponents said the law would ensure all car manufacturers, regardless of their business model, play by the same rules.

Republican Sen. Brice Wiggins, a Republican from Pascagoula, had hoped Reeves would veto the legislation. Lawmakers were aiming to attract Tesla to Mississippi's Gulf Coast, an area Wiggins called the state’s economic driver.

"In today's world, if you don't innovate, you lose out. We as a state cannot afford to lose out," Wiggins told The Associated Press on Tuesday.

"My vote against the bill was a vote for capitalism, competition and innovation rather than for a policy of protectionism.”
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Geely drops plan to acquire Proton

                HONG KONG: China's Geely Automobile Holdings has withdrawn its bid to acquire a controlling stake in Malaysian automaker Proton, Geely's president, An Conghui has told the South China Morning Post.

Geely, the owner of the Swedish Volvo brand, earlier today reported better-than-expected earnings for 2016, as net profit surged by 126% to 5.1 billion yuan (RM3.3bil).

It had been considered the favourite to acquire a controlling stake in Proton, Malaysia's largest carmaker which also owns the Lotus sports car marque, though Europe's second-largest carmaker Groupe PSA, which owns the Citroen, Peugeot, and DS brands, was also in the running.

Geely's revenue jumped 78% to 53.7 billion yuan as the group sold 765,970 vehicles in 2016, up 50.2% from the previous year. Of these, 744,191 units were sold domestically, up 53.6% from 2015, according to the company's filing to Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing.

An did not elaborate on the reasons for the Proton decision, but Li Shufu, its chairman, had previously indicated the Malaysian firm had been uncertain about what it wanted from an overseas partner, in an interview with Bloomberg earlier this month.

Any successful bidder will get access to Proton's Tanjung Malim assembly plant, which has an annual production capacity of 150,000 vehicles in two shifts.

Owning a car assembly in Malaysia would also qualify its owner to ship vehicles tax-free anywhere among the 10 members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, or Asean, with a combined population of 623 million people.

Geely's main ambition is to expand its footprint into South-East Asia, said Robin Zhu, a Hong Kong-based auto analyst at Sanford C. Bernstein, when the news of Geely's withdrawal of interest in Proton broke. Last month it announced a 2017 sales target of 1 million vehicles, an increase of 34% from last year. It has been actively seeking overseas acquisitions, Hong Kong-based executive director Lawrence Ang told the post earlier this month.

Proton is looking for a strategic partner to assist with research and development as part of conditions it agreed to receive a loan of RM1.5bil from the Malaysian government last year.

The firm, once one of the Malaysia's flagship companies, has been struggling with losing market share in Malaysia while failing to compete overseas.

The last time it recorded a better annual performance was in 2008, when net profit of that year surged by 179% to 866 million yuan from 2007, according to Reuters figures.

The company is proposing HK$0.12 per share as a dividend for this year.

The only black mark on its earnings was that exports declined sharply by 15% year on year to 21,779 units. And in the first two months of 2017, it further tumbled by 60% year on year.

An said the decline was "within expectation and within planning".

"Uncertainties from international markets, geographical politics, and currency rates are eroding the profit of export, that is why we intentionally brought down export volumes," he said.

An said Geely still maintained the target to become a top ten "international car maker", and is determined to enter the Europe and US market "when time is ripe".

He said the company would push out its first Lynk & Co new SUV brand – being developed in collaboration with Volvo – in the fourth quarter, while planning to introduce at least two more new models during the first half of next year to become China's first automaker to market its own brand in developed markets, beginning with Europe and the United States.

In its results filing, the company said 2017 could be another "stellar" year, as demand remains strong for new products launched in 2016.

But it also highlighted pressures coming from fierce competition, and admitted that its sales late in 2016 were heavily influenced due to the reduction of purchase tax subsidies in China for compact vehicles from 50% to 25% starting from 2017.

Geely's share price increased 5.83% on Wednesday to close at HK$11.98, from a recent low of HK$2.7 last February.

"Geely so far tells the most successful story through cross-border acquisition and synergy in China's automotive sector," said Zhang Yu, managing director Automotive Foresight.

Geely bought control of the Volvo brand of vehicles from Ford Motor Co for US$1.8bil in 2010, and transformed itself from a low-end automotive manufacturer with improved product design and engineering acquired from the Swedish brand.

"The introduction of its new Lynk brand will help to improve the company's pricing level up to 250,000 yuan per unit from the current 180,000 per unit, which will be a boost to the brand positioning," Zhang said.

Geely also owns Manganese Bronze, the company that assembles London's iconic black cabs, and assembles the TX4 model in Shanghai to export to Britain. – South China Morning Post


Mazda museum opens in Germany

                MUNICH: Mazda likes to market itself as Japan's most unconventional auto firm. So, where better to open a museum charting its first 100 years of car making history than Germany?

Mazda Classic - Automobil Museum Frey is actually the brainchild of the Frey family, owners of a German Mazda dealership, Auto Frey, who has built up a remarkable collection of noteworthy Mazdas since starting to sell the marque in 1978.

"Uniquely impressive, the first Mazda museum outside Japan represents a dream come true for the Frey family to share with the public its one-of-a-kind collection of vintage Mazdas from around the world," said Mazda Motor Corporation executive vice president Akira Marumoto.

The museum is housed in a refurbished, converted train depot dating from 1897 in Angsburg, 80km north-west of here. Officially opening this week, the centrepiece exhibit will be 45 classic Mazdas including a 1967 Cosmo Sport, a 1969 Luce R130, a 1966 Familia 1000 coupé, a 1976 Mazda 616 and a mid-engined AZ-1 sportscar from 1992.

Each of the vehicles on display comes from the Frey's personal collection and many were restored personally by family members. Collecting Mazdas became a huge household passion and led to Patriarch Walter and his sons Markus and Joachim travelling the world in search of new rare finds.

In fact, the collection currently runs to 120 vehicles, meaning that the display will be constantly refreshed and rotated so that regular visitors will always see something new.

"Everyone at Mazda headquarters is very proud that the Freys are a part of our organisation and have created something so extraordinary," Marumoto said.


DS poised to reveal new model this week

                PARIS: The DS auto brand appears poised to unveil a new model — probably a concept car — on March 21, according to its styling director, Thierry Métroz, who shared some previously unseen images on the Instagram social network.

Without giving more away about this forthcoming model, Métroz said it would not be the DS 8, the new sedan the auto brand is expected to unveil this year.

These three mysterious images offer a glimpse of a particularly futuristic-looking vehicle, likely to be an electric model and possibly with cameras in place of its exterior mirrors.

What appears to be a new concept car could make its debut next month at the Shanghai motor show in China, which opens to the public on April 18.


Vantage Dark Knight Edition now available from Aston Martin Kuala Lumpur

                KUALA LUMPUR: Aston Martin Kuala Lumpur has a new special edition Vantage - the Dark Knight Edition.

However, the company has not revealed the price of this enhanced edition which is based on the standard Vantage that starts from RM678,000 (before duties and taxes).

The Vantage Dark Knight Edition comes featuring the use of the Exterior Black Pack.

This means the front grille, window surround finisher, quad tailpipes and perforated side gills get a matte black finish.

The mirror caps get a gloss black finish while the roof, rear diffuser insert and blades get painted in gloss black before the rear tail lights get a smoked tint.

Other accoutrements include machined carbon fibre for the front and rear wings as well as the ‘Aston Martin’ script on the rear decklid.

Also fitted are the lightweight Carbon Ceramic Brake (CCB) system (-24kg) that will still maintain the stopping power even at an extreme temperature of above 800 degrees Celcius.

The master cylinder and booster have also been updated to reduce brake pedal travel and create a more responsive feel.

The CCB is recommended to be used with the 20-inch lightweight forged wheels to up the sporty appeal.

Finally, the cabin features Caithness leather and pure Alcantara.

Metallic black accents and Dark Knight leather are matched with the satinated carbon fibre trim inlay mixed with Dark Chrome Interior Jewellery with pure black Alcantara.

For more information about the Vantage Dark Knight Edition or to schedule a viewing appointment, log on to www.astonmartinkualalumpur.com or call +60 3 2163 1196 or email astonmartinkl.enquiries@wearnes.com.READ MORE: Aston Martin luxury homes in NY comes with special edition DBX