Nissan NP300 Navara launched from RM79K

                SHAH ALAM: Edaran Tan Chong Motor (ETCM), the exclusive distributor of Nissan vehicles in Malaysia, has introduced the third generation Navara pickup truck with an improved 2.5-litre turbo diesel engine as completely built-up unit from Thailand.

Taking over the reigns from the Navara D40, ETCM touts the Nissan NP300 Navara with a as "the ultimate pickup" that comes in six variants - all with an electronically controlled four-wheel-drive system with shift-on-the-fly for 2H, 4H and 4L.

With a three-year or 100,000km warranty (whichever comes first), the new Navara comes in six variants, while being priced on-the road without GST with insurance at RM81,527.08 for the Single Cab and RM92,630.24 for the E-variant - both equipped with a six-speed manual only.

Next is the SE at RM100,850.72 with a manual gearbox or RM105,988.52 with a seven-speed automatic.

The V-variant is priced at RM113,181.44, while the range-topping VL costs RM124,484.60 and both are available with an automatic gearbox only.

It comes in five colour choices for the new Navara, starting with solid white (Single Cab only) as well Savanna Orange (new), Brilliant White, Tungsten Silver and Diamond Black.

With an 80-litre tank for the new 2.5-litre YD25DDTi variable geometry turbo-diesel engine that resides under the hood for all variants, it twists out 160bhp at 3,600rpm and 403Nm of torque at 2,000rpm, but it's the VL that gets tuned up to 186bhp (+26bhp) at 3,600rpm and 450Nm (+47Nm) at 2,000rpm.

All variants have a wheelbase of 3,150mm, while measuring 5,255mm-long, 1,850mm-wide, while the VL is the tallest at 1,840 followed by the V at 1,810mm and the E at 1,800mm. The Single Cab has the smallest dimensions at 5,235mm-long, 1,790mm-wide and 1,775mm-tall.

The standard rear bed comes in measuring 1,465mm-long, 1,560mm-wide and 474mm-tall, but the Single Cab gets a larger one at 2,310mm-long (+845mm), 1,560mm-wide but 472mm-tall (-2mm).

At 1,775kg (kerb), the Single Cab with 223mm ground-clearance has a is as basic as it gets halogen headlights and fog lamps, 16-inch steel rims with 205R16C tyres and mud guards as well as electrically adjustable side mirrors and door handles both in black.

The cabin gets two airbags for the dual-occupant cabin with vinyl-wrapped passenger (fixed) and driver (four-way manual adjustment) seats, four-speaker multi-infor display with CD-player, radio and AUX-in as well as two 12V power outlets and manual locks (optional alarm and central locking available).

It sits on an independent double-wishbone with front stabiliser bar for the front suspension, a multi-leaf spring and shock absorber setup for the rear as well as front disc brakes and rear drums with load-sensing proportioning valve (LSPV).

As for the 1,833kg (kerb) E-variant, it has 5mm less of ground clearance at 215mm and looses LSPV while adding built-in side-steps, a bed-liner, rear spoiler.

It is also the first Japanese pickup truck to feature a multi-link rear suspension that improves handling and comfort while being able to take on a maximum payload of one tonne.

Inside, there's a tilt-adjustable steering wheel, zero gravity inspired fabric seats with six-way manual adjustment (four for passenger), flip-up rear seats, rear ventilation, three 12V power outlets, six-speaker sound system, USB port, ISOFIX with tether and an alarm system with central locking.

The SE variant with a kerb weight of 1,846kg (1,834kg - manual), adds chrome to the door handles and folding side mirrors with integrated signals and changes out the steel wheels for 16-inch alloys with 255/70 series tyres that adds 10mm of ground clearance to 225mm.

Safety gets bolstered with anti-lock braking system, electronic brake force distribution, brake assist, vehicle dynamic control, traction control, active brake limited slip, hill start assist and hill descent control.

For the 1,848kg (kerb) V-variant, it adds keyless entry with push-start/stop button, a reverse camera, a five-inch full-colour advanced drive assist display in the instrument cluster as well as volume, Bluetooth handsfree and cruise controls on the steering wheel.

Lastly, the 1,879kg (kerb) VL gets 18-inch wheels with 255/60 series tyres that increases the ground clearance to 230mm and allows for an angle of approach of 31-degrees and an angle of departure of 25.6-degrees.

The exterior sees the addition of roof rails and LEDs for the headlights and boomerang-shaped daytime running lights, while the cabin upgrades the rear view mirror to auto dimming with an in-built compass and dual-zone climate controls

The seats are now wrapped in leather and the driver's seat gets an eight-way and two-way lumbar support power-adjustability.

Other optional accessories from Pro-Form Tango (imported from New Zealand) includes the sport bar (RM2,650) and sport lid (RM5,830) or the complete set for RM7,950, while the elegance package that includes metal sport pedals, stainless steel kick plates, door visors and door handle finishers for RM1,166.

Other options consist of leather combination upholstery (RM2,438), a seven-inch multimedia sound system with navigation (RM3,922) and four window tint options of Solar Gard (S/C) for RM1,272, Solar Gard (RM1,484), Solar Gard Amorcoat (RM2,067) and V-Kool Elite Security (RM5,141).

“We name the NP300 Navara The Ultimate Pickup, as it has the flexibility to be sturdy and reliable for work, yet comfortable and spacious for the weekend", said ETCM executive director Datuk Dr. Ang Bon Beng.

NISSAN NP300 NAVARA VL

NISSAN NP300 NAVARA VNISSAN NP300 NAVARANissan YD25DDTi 2.5-litre engine with variable geometry turbocharged systemNissan YD25DDTi 2.5-litre engine with variable geometry turbocharged systemNissan YD25DDTi 2.5-litre engine with variable geometry turbocharged system Pro-Form Tango Sportbar and Sport LidNissan NP300 Navara Single Cab


German carmakers call for post-Brexit rules to be postponed

                BERLIN: Germany's powerful auto industry association is urging the European Union and Britain to postpone post-Brexit rules it says would hamper the transition to electric vehicles, potentially boosting the hand of UK-based carmakers calling for the same.

Under the trade deal agreed when Britain left the EU, 45% of the value of an electric vehicle (EV) sold in the EU must come from Britain or the EU from 2024 to avoid tariffs.

The problem is that a battery pack can account for up to half a new EV's cost and Europe has not yet developed a big enough battery industry of its own - and is unlikely to do so by the end of 2023, the VDA association said in a statement.

Tariffs both on exports to Britain and imports from it would be "a significant competitive disadvantage for the European car industry in relation to its Asian competitors in the so important UK market", it said.

They would also represented a "danger for the development of e-mobility" as they would hurt the whole EU supply chain including battery makers, causing Europe to fall further behind as a production site.

"This would put the brakes on the transformation," the lobby group said.

Earlier this week, carmaker Stellantis warned British car plants would close with the loss of thousands of jobs if the issue was not addressed.

Britain said on Wednesday it was in talks with Brussels.

"We hope to be able to come to a resolution with the EU on this," Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's spokesman told reporters on Wednesday.


Toyota and CJPT partners to showcase new energy vehicles in Thailand

                BANGKOK: To promore hydrogen and electrified vehicles, Toyota Motor Thailand Co Ltd, Isuzu Motors Ltd, Suzuki Motor Corp, Daihatsu Motor Co Ltd, along with Hino Motors Ltd will be working together in holding a test drive event, and introduce commercial vehicles to government officials, media, fleet companies, and partner corporations.

The vehicles will include the zero-emission hydrogen-powered Toyota Sora FCEV (fuel cell electric vehicle) bus, the Toyota Hilux Revo BEV (battery EV) concept, Hino FCEV heavy duty truck, Toyota e-Palette, Suzuki Every small van and even a hydrogen-powered Yamaha H2 ROV (recreational off-highway vehicle) buggy.

Commercial Japan Partnership Technologies Corp (CJPT) president Hiroki Nakajima said, "We want to contribute to improving the quality of life of people in Asia with various low-fuel consumption and high-efficiency vehicles, including small (Kei) internal combustion engine (ICE) vans, hybrid EVs, BEVs, and FCEVs."

 Toyota Hilux Revo BEV

In a statement, CJPT said starting from Thailand, the group will continue to work to quickly deploy decarbonisation technologies to the Asian market by integrating their knowledge and collaborating with like-minded stakeholders.

Following the collaboration with Charoen Pokphand Group (CP) announced in December 2022, CJPT aims to expand partnerships in Asia, including in the area of energy supply (energy solutions), mobility solutions such as vehicle provision and logistics management, and data solutions, by integrating the strengths of each company.

"It is important to provide the optimal mobility solution according to the regional environment and customer needs. CJPT positions this test drive event as part of expanding activities with more partners and will further accelerate CJPT's efforts to realise carbon neutrality in Thailand," said the group.

READ MORE:Toyota and CP Group to explore making hydrogen from poultry manureElectric Hilux coming, says Toyoda on Toyota's 60th aniversary in Thailand Toyota Hilux Revo BEV Toyota Hilux Revo BEV Toyota Hilux Revo BEV Toyota Hilux Revo BEV Toyota Hilux Revo BEV Toyota Hilux Revo BEV Toyota Hilux Revo BEV Toyota Hilux Revo BEV


Full lockdown nationwide from June 1-14 as cases soar past 8,000

                PETALING JAYA: A nationwide full lockdown will take place from June 1 to 14 and all sectors will not be allowed to operate during this period except the essential economic and service sectors.

A special National Security Council meeting chaired by Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin today made the decision to implement the full lockdown for 14 days.

In a statement by the Prime Minister's Office (PMO), it said the decision was made following the steep climb of Covid-19 cases that breached the 8,000 mark with more than 70,000 active cases today.

"So far, 2,552 people have died and the number is climbing.

"The existence of new and more virulent variants that are highly infectious also influenced today's decision.

"With the steeply increasing numbers, our hospital capacity nationwide to treat Covid-19 patients is also getting thinner," the statement read.

Should this first phase of lockdown succeed in reducing the number of daily cases, the PMO said the government would move on to the second phase that allows some economic sectors to open provided no large gatherings are involved and physical distancing is practised.

"Phase Two of the lockdown is expected to last for four weeks after Phase One ends.

"After that, Phase Three would start with the implementation of the movement control order (MCO) where no social activities are allowed.

"Most economic sectors would be allowed to operate according to strict SOPs and physical distancing at workplaces, which will be limited," it said, adding that the decision to move from one phase to the next is subject to risk assessments by the Health Ministry.

"The assessment would be made based on the daily cases and the hospitals' capacity nationwide to treat Covid-19 patients," it added.

PMO also assured that the government would prevent the country's public health system from collapsing.

"Various support and assistance will be given to the Health Ministry to increase the hospital capacity throughout the country.

"The government will also increase the number of vaccines to be administered to the people over the next few weeks to expedite herd immunity in the country."

Following the government's decision to implement a full closure of the economic and social sectors, PMO said the Finance Ministry would detail the assistance package to the people and affected businesses.

"An announcement on this assistance package will be made soonest.

"We call on all Malaysians to remain disciplined and always adhere to the SOPs to break the chain of Covid-19 infections.

"It is best to stay home to flatten the Covid-19 infection curve," it added.


BMW hit with US$40 million US penalty for safety lapses

                WASHINGTON: US auto safety regulators on Monday fined BMW US$10 million, part of a US$40 million civil settlement over the German automaker's safety lapses.

The fine is the second paid by BMW since 2012 and the latest in a series of civil penalties imposed on major automakers by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

Under the settlement, BMW admitted it did not comply with minimum crash protection standards, failed to notify owners of recalls in a timely fashion and failed to provide accurate information about its recalls to NHTSA.

The NHTSA fined BMW US$3 million in 2012 for similar problems.

The settlement ends a NHTSA investigation into whether the company failed to issue a recall within five days of learning that its 2014 and 2015 MINI Cooper models failed to meet regulatory minimums for side-impact crash protection.

The US$40 million settlement includes a US$10 million fine, a requirement that the company spend at least US$10 million meeting the order’s performance obligations, and US$20 million in deferred penalties if the company fails to comply with the order or commits other safety violations.

BMW agreed to hire a government-approved independent safety consultant and disclose updated procedures to NHTSA. The agency has required a number of automakers to agree to independent monitors or retain outside consultants to improve safety procedures as part of settlements.

BMW said in a statement it agreed to settle the allegations as part of a two-year consent order. "The company is committed to further improving its recall processes to better serve its customers," it said.

"The requirement to launch recalls and inform consumers in a timely fashion when a safety defect or noncompliance is discovered is fundamental to our system for protecting the traveling public. This is a must-do," said NHTSA Administrator Mark Rosekind.

The agency ordered BMW to create a plan to deter dealers from selling unrepaired, recalled vehicles after an agency investigator was able to buy a new vehicle that had been recalled but not fixed, a violation of US law.

Earlier this month, the agency fined Fiat Chrysler Automobiles NV US$70 million for failing to disclose vehicle crash death and injury reports. The automaker also paid US$70 million in July to resolve allegations it mishandled nearly two dozen recall campaigns covering more than 11 million vehicles.

In January, Honda Motor Co paid US$70 million to the NHTSA in fines for failing to disclose death and injury reports.


VinFast delivers first 45 cars in US market

                LOS ANGELES: VinFast delivered its first 45 cars to customers in California on Wednesday, its first sales outside Vietnam.

The company, a subsidiary of conglomerate Vingroup JSC, had shipped 999 vehicles to California in November but faced more than two months of costly delays in preparing them for delivery.

Last week, the company slashed the lease price on the VF8 electric crossover by 50%.

VinFast faced anger and frustration from early reservation holders when it said the initial shipment of VF8 cars would have a lower battery range than the company had claimed in marketing.

It also dropped an option for consumers to rent the electric car's battery, a plan it had advertised as a way to bring down the cost of ownership.

VinFast said on Wednesday the VF8 City Edition Eco, a rebranded version of the car to account for its lower range, would have an EPA estimated battery range of 333km.

The first cars were available for lease through US Bancorp, VinFast said. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has not yet provided a safety rating.

VinFast has signalled it expects the lease to qualify for a subsidy of up to US$7,500 under the President Joe Biden administration's incentive program payable to the finance company. VinFast is not yet certified to participate in the subsidy.

It is looking to compete with established carmakers at a time when major automakers, led by Tesla, are driving prices down and bringing a range of new EVs to market.

Analysts say quarterly results from US electric vehicle startups Lucid, Rivian and electric semi truck maker Nikola all reflected pressure from lower orders, higher interest rates and increased competition.

At VinFast's store in Marina Del Rey, California, James and Christine Wang took possession of a VF8 they had reserved earlier this year.

"We're early adopters, we like to try things out," said James Wang, 36.

Andrew and Nikki Le, who ordered 11 VinFast cars, took delivery of the first of those at the store. They had toured the VinFast factory in Haiphong, Vietnam in May as part of a promotion by the company, they said.

VinFast said insurers including State Farm, Allstate and Progressive would provide policies for the new model.

Vehicle subscription service Autonomy has a deal to buy 2,500 vehicles from VinFast, the companies said last year. Autonomy did not respond to a request for comment on when it would take delivery.

With its initial vehicle deliveries stalled, VinFast cut dozens of jobs in the United States and Canada and merged those operations earlier this year.

The company is waiting for final regulatory approval to begin construction of a US$4-billion plant in North Carolina.


Daihatsu driving innovation at upcoming expo

PETALING JAYA: Daihatsu (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd (DMSB) will be showcasing its first automatic transmission (AT) light commercial vehicle in Malaysia at the upcoming Malaysia Commercial Vehicle Expo  (MCVE 2019).The expo will take place from Jun 20 to 22, 2019 at the Malaysia International Exhibition and Convention Centre (MIECC).Occupying a significant exhibition area in the expo, DMSB will be showcasing the Gran Max Panel Van (AT), equipped with rear-wheel drive (RWD) function that will offer drivers better initial acceleration and improved traction.The Gran Max Panel Van (AT) is able to accommodate up to 2,000 kg of gross weight (with load), and is  powered by DOHC DVVT 1.5 litre engine.The vehicle also comes with enhanced fittings such as anti-lock braking system (ABS), dual front SRS airbags as well as power steering features to support local driving habits and ensure easy handling.DBSM will also be exhibiting a custom-built Gran Max panel van which will feature a conservation initiative to reduce vehicle’s CO2 emissions.Another highlight at the expo will be a custom-built Gran Max pickup truck to be used as a mobile clinic, as part of a collaboration with Columbia Asia Hospital to offer complimentary health screening throughout the three days of the expo.There will also be a blood donation drive administrated by the National Blood Centre on the second day of the event from 12pm to 6pm at Daihatsu’s booth.  DBSM will also be introducing various tailor-made programs suitable for small businesses as well as larger fleets at the expo.Arman Mahadi, Managing Director of Daihatsu (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd said, “The Gran Max is extremely versatile and can allow up to 17 customised body applications. This adaptability makes the Gran Max the perfect vehicle for a wide range of transport and business needs.”


Hyundai preps new i30 Fastback N for launch

                BERLIN: Hyundai Motor is in the final stages of development for its new i30 Fastback N and will be the next model to join its expanding range of high-performance cars wearing the N logo.

Prototype testing is now well under way, including extensive assessments on a variety of road surfaces around Europe.

Among the testing locations is the famous Nordschleife circuit at the infamous Nürburgring in Germany, where Hyundai has its own technical centre.

The track and public roads around the region are among those used to evaluate performance and durability, helping to prepare what will be the third N model, after the five-door i30 N and the Veloster N.

Launched earlier this year, the i30 Fastback — the only five-door coupe in its segment, enhances the original model to bring about the heart-racing sibling - the five-door i30 N.

More information on the New i30 Fastback N will be announced later this year, closer to the time of its launch.


Alibaba's self-driving vehicles could deliver your packages in 2019

                HANGZHOU: Two Chinese titans, Alibaba and Robosense, have joined forces to create G Plus, “the world's first solid-state LiDAR unmanned logistics vehicle.”

In other words, a self-driving delivery truck made up of lockers that can only be opened when at the right destination and/or unlocked by the customer.

The G Plus robot can adapt to carrying several packages of various shapes and sizes, or even change its use altogether. The unmanned-vehicle basically consists of a unit placed on wheels that is autonomously driven by RoboSense's LiDAR technology, allowing for other retail scenarios, such as a mobile self-pickup station, a mobile coffee vending machine and so on.

Incorporating other technologies could increase the security, inventory range and convenience. According to The Verge, these avenues have already been explored as “Alibaba showed off a driverless delivery robot that will help ship goods purchased online to customers more conveniently and a storage locker with facial recognition that promises to keep food warm.”

The announcement by the two Chinese firms details RoboSense's latest solid-state LiDAR technology as cheaper and more reliable than the traditional form, thus allowing these vehicles to be mass-produced for “rapid expansion of unmanned logistics vehicles and streamlining mass market logistics.”

LiDAR technology is a sophisticated version of what humans do when they can't see where they're going — walking slowly with their arms out searching for obstacles.

The surveying method beams pulsed laser lights at a target - for example, the road ahead - and then measures the reflected pulses with a sensor. LiDAR is short for, ‘light imaging, detection, and ranging', technology which assists with not only autonomous driving but also forestry (tree inventory), wind farm optimisation (measuring wind speeds), and the list goes on.

Traditionally, a mechanical multi-beam form is used, which relies on over a hundred laser transmitters and receivers. However G Plus consists of just three RS-LiDAR-M1Pres, two in the front, one in the rear “to ensure the most powerful 3D perception for driving.”

Alibaba is currently testing out the robot on roads surrounding their headquarters in Hangzhou, a large city in eastern China, with plans to begin commercial production by the end of this year.


Daimler to cut 1,100 managing positions worldwide, says daily

                FRANKFURT: Daimler will cut 1,100 leadership positions worldwide, or about 10% of its management, German daily Sueddeutsche Zeitung said on Friday, citing a newsletter circulated by the company’s works council.

A spokesman for Daimler’s works council referred to an internal letter circulated by works council chief Michael Brecht.

“The works council was recently informed by management about the personnel and financial situation of the company,” Brecht told employees. “Talks have started, there are no results yet.”

Daimler’s works council rules out compulsory layoffs until 2030, Brecht said, adding that voluntary buyouts should be possible but only in a situation when both parties consent.

Daimler’s new chief cxecutive is due to give a strategy update, which could include cost measures, on Nov 14.

Daimler said the carmaker was working on a cost analysis so that the car, truck and bus maker can remain competitive going forward. Details will be revealed during the carmaker’s capital markets day.

“We are in constructive talks with employee representatives and cannot comment on speculation,” Daimler said.


New 2019 Mercedes GLE unmasked

                STUTTGART: As Mercedes has just taken the wraps off the new 2019 version of its luxury GLE SUV it's now become obvious this is significantly more than a cosmetic redesign with a few more features.

After a series of teasers in recent weeks, the all-new 2019 Mercedes-Benz GLE has now been unveiled to the world without its camouflage ahead of its full debut at next month's Paris Motor Show. And from what we can now see and what we're being told by the luxury automaker, the all-new GLE is going to be as stylish and as technologically advanced a new offering as the sensational new A-Class has proved to be.

Although there's no mistaking the new model as the company's latest take on the mid-size SUV, the 2019 GLE is different enough to its predecessor to be easily identifiable as a new and more stylish contender in the market. The sheet metal is new all around, the front fascia has a more squinting and sportier look than the current model, and it takes a least a little of its inspiration from the latest A-Class. The rear of the vehicle gets a slightly more subtle update with a slimmer tail-light design and a blacked-out D-pillar, and the wheelbase is 80mm longer to deliver a little extra legroom inside.

The German automaker's current party piece, the dual-screen infotainment and instrument display, is a key new feature of the GLE just as it is now in the A-Class, E-Class and S-Class. The pair of impressive 12.3-inch screens sit above four individual air vents, and the cabin is beautifully adorned in woods, metal and leather from top to bottom.

In Europe the GLE will launch with a choice of two engines. The GLE 450 4Matic gets a 362hp inline-six with 48-volt mild-hybrid technology for better performance and lower emissions. The alternative will be GLE 300d with a 2.0-litre four-cylinder diesel under the hood, and both engines will come mated to a nine-speed automatic gearbox.

Eventually, there will be a GLE 350 de diesel plug-in hybrid added, and a pair of six-cylinder diesels will complete the family for 2019 in 350d and 400d variants. Flagship AMG versions will follow in 2020, and a GLE Coupe will join them.


Can Hyundai beat Mercedes and BMW at their own game?

                SEOUL: When the 2017 Hyundai Genesis G80 goes on sale this fall it will do so as a car with more passenger space than a Mercedes E Class, more horsepower than a Cadillac CTS and with a raft of active safety systems as standard that even Volvo S90 drivers are offered as optional extras.

But will all of this be enough to make clients ditch their Audi A6, BMW 5 Series or Lexus in favour of a Genesis? If those in the market for a mid-luxury sedan simply look at the figures in order to make their decision, then the answer will be "yes."

The Genesis G80 is an attempt to take the best elements of every German and Japanese premium sedan currently on sale and distil them into one vehicle.

For example, the car offers 3,050 litres of passenger space - that's 283 litres more than a Cadillac CTS and 255 litres more than the new Mercedes E-Class. It also offers more luggage space than any competitor including an Infiniti Q70 or BMW 5 Series.

In terms of performance, Hyundai claims the Genesis's body is stiffer than that of a BMW 5 Series for better handling. The car can be specified with rear-wheel or all-wheel drive and there's a choice of two engines - a 311hp 3.8-litre V6 and a 420hp 5-litre V8, both of which are mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission.

Then there's the safety technology. The G80 is the only car that comes with autonomous emergency braking with collision avoidance or mitigation, smart cruise control, blind spot detection, lane keep assist and a rearview camera as standard.

There's even an in-cabin CO2 sensor. It monitors air quality and as soon as CO2 levels pass 2,000 parts per million, fresh air is circulated around the cockpit to ensure the driver doesn't feel drowsy.

But luxury is about more than creature comforts. It is increasingly about the whole ownership experience. So Hyundai will give Genesis owners three years' complimentary maintenance and will send a valet to collect the car and leave a courtesy vehicle every time a tune-up is needed. Its connected services, including a concierge are also bundled in free of charge for the first three years.

"Genesis cars exude confidence, and it has driven us to design an ownership experience that is personalised, convenient and saves time," said Erwin Raphael, general manager of Genesis in the US market.

"Respect and courtesy are the foundation of the Genesis Experience. We will honour our owners' time through streamlined processes that put their needs first."


WATCH: Video review of BMW X7 in Texas

                PETALING JAYA: The BMW X7 was introduced with the launch of the facelifted 7 Series on July 11.

Prior to that, CarSifu had clocked up plenty of air miles to try out the X7 during its international media drive in the United States in early March.

The seven or six-seater SUV X7 xDrive40i Pure Excellence will be available at all authorised dealerships nationwide from September, priced at RM888,800.

Drive comes from a 3.0-litre turbocharged B58 inline-six engine producing 340hp from 5,500 to 6,500rpm and 450Nm of torque from 1,500 to 5,200rpm. The engine is mated to an eight-speed Steptronic sport transmission.


Renault plans to recycle end-of-life EV battery metals

                PARIS: The Renault group, an electric vehicle pioneer, has joined forces with Veolia and Solvay to recycle end-of-life EV battery metals in a closed loop.

The aim is to preserve resources while also re-introducing them into the production process, as well as reducing the carbon emissions linked to battery manufacturing.

What to do with batteries and, above all, the materials they contain, when they reach the end of their lives?

That's one major environmental issue resulting from the rise of electric vehicles. With almost 10 million EVs already in circulation worldwide - a figure that could increase tenfold in the next 10 years - it's a crucial question.

In response, Renault has decided to work with two partners: Veolia, for the dismantling and recycling of lithium-ion batteries; and the Belgian group Solvay, for the chemical extraction of battery metals.

Together, the partners aim to create a secure and sustainable source of supply for metals used in the manufacturing of EV batteries, namely cobalt, nickel and lithium.

These metals have to be extracted and purified in order to be reused. This new closed-loop process should help significantly reduce the environmental footprint of these future batteries.

A pre-industrial demo plant is being set up in France before larger-scale deployment.

Note that the Volkswagen group has also pledged to recycle key materials from its lithium-ion batteries, starting at its Salzgitter plant in Germany.


Stand a chance to win new Toyo Proxes CR1 tyres at Nov 19 launch

                PETALING JAYA: Here's a heads-up. There's a new tyre coming to town and it's called Toyo Proxes CR1.

As with many events set against a pandemic backdrop, Toyo Tires is playing it safe by launching its latest product in Malaysia on Nov 19.

The live streaming session can be viewed at 9pm on that day at Toyo Tyre Malaysia’s Facebook page.

Technical details, available sizes and pricing would be revealed during the livestream.

In a brief statement today, Toyo Tires said the Proxes CR1 is a tyre designed to provide a premium, smooth and relaxing drive for passenger cars and SUVs. It claims to offer superior performance on both wet and dry road conditions, improved fuel efficiency and a longer tyre life. Such feats are achieved through the company's proprietary "T-Mode and Nano Balance Technology" that optimises the performance of tread components, it said.

During the livestream, Malaysian drift driver, Tengku Djan Ley Tengku Mahaleel, will share personal feedback from using the Proxes CR1 on his Mercedes-Benz C 230. He had put the tyres to the test at the Setia City Convention Centre car park in Shah Alam recently.

During this interactive virtual event, prizes would be given away to 53 lucky winners. The first three winners to click LIKE, SHARE video and ANSWER all 5 questions correctly would walk away with 1 set of Proxes CR1 tyres while the remaining 50 winners would be rewarded with a RM20 Petronas petrol card each.


BMW special offers for Malaysian companies

                KUALA LUMPUR: The new BMW Group Corporate Programme allows organisations as well as small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in Malaysia to buy BMW and MINI vehicles at a very attractive cost of ownership with exceptional benefits.

Specifically for SMEs, the programme offers a 3% rebate with the minimum purchase of two vehicles and is applicable for SMEs in the manufacturing sector with sales turnover not exceeding RM50 million or full-time employees not exceeding 200 workers as well as SMEs in the services and other sectors with sales turnover of not exceeding RM20 million or full-time employees not exceeding 75 workers.

SMEs must be registered with the Companies Commission of Malaysia (SSM), respective authorities of district offices in Sabah or Sarawak or respective statutory bodies for professional service providers.

Meanwhile, public listed companies on the main board as well as subsidiaries of public-listed companies on the main board, large firms, multinational corporations (MNCs), government-linked companies (GLCs), Syarikat Menteri Kewangan Diperbadankan (MKDs) and state-owned enterprises can enjoy a 4% rebate for every fleet purchase of four to seven units while companies that purchase eight units and more are entitled to a 6% rebate.

The new programme for Malaysian companies also includes new fleet renewal benefits where companies that have purchased four to seven units with the previous agreement can now enjoy a 4% rebate when purchasing an additional one to seven units while companies which have purchased eight or more vehicles will be entitled to a 6% rebate for every vehicle acquired.

A 5% rebate is also offered on selected vehicles purchased under the International Supply Agreement with the BMW Group.

International Supply Agreements are worldwide corporate partnership agreements the BMW Group have with multinational organisations that operate across multiple locations.

The benefits of the new Corporate Programme are also applicable to spouses of employees in the partner companies.

With approval from BMW Group Malaysia, the concessions may also be extended to subsidiaries of the parent companies.

In order to enjoy these privileges, corporate customers need to provide supporting documents that include a To Whom It May Concern letter, business card, latest payslip and marriage certificate for units registered under the spouses’ name.

The programme is valid for 24 months from the first unit purchased.

Privileges include a 3% reduction off the normal loan interest rate from BMW Credit (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd, BMW Driver Training Programme at only RM888 instead of the regular RM1,700 and exclusive invitations to special events.

The programme is however not applicable for the BMW X1 xDrive 20d, the new MINI Cooper 3-Door (Salt), and any other models sold under promotional offers, duty free as well as vehicles purchased as part of the MM2H and MREP programmes.


Volvo Car Malaysia announces zero GST prices

                KUALA LUMPUR: Following the Ministry of Finance Malaysia’s announcement that the Goods and Services Tax (GST) is set to be standard-rated 0% from 1 June 2018, Volvo Car Malaysia has updated its model range price list.

The prices quoted above are on-the-road (private registration for Peninsular Malaysia) without insurance.

This revised pricing will take into effect starting 1 June 2018 and will remain until further notice or announcement from the Ministry of Finance Malaysia.

Standard-rated 0% will also be applicable for parts and servicing prices at all of Volvo Car Malaysia’s authorised dealers; this includes purchases of all Volvo Service Agreement (VSA) packages as outlined below:


Proton's 2021 product launch plan on track despite pandemic impact

                SUBANG JAYA: Proton says its 2021 product launch plan is on schedule despite supply chain hitches caused by the pandemic.

It expects production to stabilise by mid-2021 with the arrival of vaccines against Covid-19.

"We have an exciting series of improved products in the pipeline while the X50 will now be able to establish its standing in the market by benefitting from a full year of sales," said Proton Edar CEO Roslan Abdullah.

"There will undoubtedly be more challenges ahead until the world is able to control the spread of the virus but we are aware this is now the new norm for doing business and the onus is on us to innovate our operations to better serve our customers.”

He said Proton's order book remains healthy with orders carried over from the end of last year. While customer visits to showrooms had dropped as a result of the Movement Control Order, Proton's ability to receive bookings online had helped to boost sales, he said.

He also said the company is working hard for supply to catch up to demand.

The Saga continues to lead Proton's January 2021 sales. With 2,583 units delivered it was the second most popular A-segment sedan in the country.

 Proton is struggling to keep up with demand for its latest model, the X50.

Proton finished the month ranked second by delivering 5,964 units. This represents a sales decrease of 29.9% compared to January 2020. Market share is estimated at 18.5%, about 1.0% less compared to the same period last year. The overall figures though are a reflection of supply not being able to meet demand rather than a reduction in bookings.

Malaysia’s automotive sales for January is forecast to be slightly above 32,000 units, corresponding with a major drop in volume for most major players.

READ MORE:  10 new cars coming in 2021


Vehicle sales expected to spike with end of tax holiday

                KUALA LUMPUR: The discontinuation of the vehicle sales tax exemption beyond this month may create a brief spike in demand for cars for the rest of June and result in a potential sales glut for the remainder of 2022.

An analyst said there could be an “order avalanche in the next 10 days” as potential car buyers will want to take advantage of the limited time left before the tax holiday ends.

“Key implications include a likely surge in orders for the rest of June, bringing forward some sales from the second half of 2022.

“Customers are unlikely to cancel orders post-June 2022, as they may still receive the vehicles before March next year,” he said.

An industry observer cautioned that the discontinuation of the sales tax exemption, which has been in place for two years, could have the same implications as the tax holiday that was implemented in 2018.

“When the government zero-rated the goods and services tax or GST for three months in 2018, it resulted in a spike in demand for vehicles. After the tax holiday ended, car sales were affected for quite some time.”

In a statement yesterday, Finance Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Aziz said the vehicle sales tax exemption will end on June 30 as planned.

In his statement, Tengku Zafrul said the extension of time until March next year (to register vehicles booked during the sales tax holiday) was a “midpoint solution” to balance the interests of consumers and the national tax revenue. A total of 868,422 vehicles have been sold and citizens have benefited from a sales tax exemption amounting to RM4.7bil, he noted.

“With the reopening of the economy, operations within the local automotive sector have returned to normal.”

He added that buyers who had booked their vehicles during the tax holiday period have until March 31, 2023 to register their vehicles with the Road Transport Department.

Malaysian Automotive Association (MAA) president Datuk Aishah Ahmad said the time extension will let car companies clear the backlog of orders received from customers.

“Hopefully, the shortage of chips and components would be resolved by then.

“The MAA would like to thank the Finance Ministry (MoF) for this extension to assist in clearing the backlog of order banks,” she told StarBiz.

 Aishah.

In his statement, Tengku Zafrul said the extension of time until March next year (to register vehicles booked during the sales tax holiday) was a “midpoint solution” to balance the interests of consumers and the national tax revenue.

A total of 868,422 vehicles have been sold and citizens have benefited from a sales tax exemption amounting to RM4.7bil, he noted.

“With the reopening of the economy, operations within the local automotive sector have returned to normal.”

Tengku Zafrul acknowledged that there had been a large number of vehicle orders that still could not be met in the wake of disruptions to the global supply chain.

“The whole world is facing a shortage of semiconductor microchips, which is widely used across several industries, including the automotive sector.”

The minister said a total of 264,000 vehicles were booked during the sales tax exemption period, but had yet to be delivered to the respective buyers.

“The extension of this vehicle registration period is a mid-point solution to balance the interests of consumers and the national tax revenue, which needs to be lifted again post-pandemic to ensure the welfare of the people and the economic well-being of the country continues to be preserved,” said Tengku Zafrul.

An analyst from a local bank-backed brokerage said the extended waiting period for new cars due to supply chain imbalances had resulted in many car buyers being unable to benefit from the sales tax exemption, should it have ended on June 30.

“Together with the populist aspects, an extension was somewhat expected. Generally positive for the auto sector and helps to avoid some compression of margins, as some distributors were prepared to absorb the sales tax for orders placed before the expiry of the current exemption,” he said.

The vehicle sales tax exemption was announced in June 2020, under the short-term economic recovery plan or Penjana.

Under the exemption, locally-assembled cars are fully exempted from the sales tax while for imported cars, the sales tax was reduced from 10% to 5%.

The tax holiday was supposed to end in Dec 2020 but was however extended to June 30, 2021, and then again until the end of that year.

During the tabling of Budget 2022 in October last year, the government announced that the sales tax exemption would be extended one more time until June 30, 2022.

The multiple extensions were mainly due to the repeated lockdowns over the past two years, which disrupted business operations and prevented car buyers from being able to fully enjoy the benefits of the tax holiday.

Separately, the MAA said in a statement yesterday that total vehicle sales in May rose to 49,603 units from 47,207 units a year earlier.

MAA expects sales in June are expected to be better than the month of May.

It said the aggressive sales push by car companies and the sales tax exemption, which ends this month, will incentivise customers to buy passenger vehicles.

The association added the shortage of chips and components as well as supply chain disruptions will continue to affect some makes.

Year-to-date May 2022, vehicle sales rose to 265,656 units from 247,250 units a year earlier.

The MAA is projecting vehicle sales in 2022 to grow 18% year-on-year to 600,000 units, underpinned by the post-pandemic global economic rebound as well as better business operating conditions.


Ducati in Malaysia unleashes nine bikes

PETALING JAYA: Next Bike Sdn Bhd, the official distributor for Ducati in Malaysia unveiled an impressive 2019 line-up of nine bikes at the Ducati Malaysia Première 2019 at Naza Automall PJ.First introduced at the Ducati World Premiere 2019 in Milan and later displayed at the prestigious International Motorcycle and Accessories Exhibition (EICMA 2018), the Ducati 2019 line-up consists of the Panigale V4 R, Diavel 1260 S, Hypermotard 950, Multistrada 950 S, Multistrada 1260 Enduro and from the Scrambler range; the all-new Scrambler Icon, Scrambler Full Throttle, Scrambler Desert Sled and Scrambler Café Racer.“As the epitome of all-Italian Excellence, the Ducati brand offers a wide range of state-of-the-art bikes crafted to perfection based on the Ducati core values of Style, Sophistication and Performance. Among the nine Ducati bikes being launched today include Malaysian Ducati fan favourites Hypermotard 950 and Scrambler Café Racer. With this massive line-up, we are confident that we will achieve our 2019 sales target of over 300 bikes this year,” said SM Nasarudin SM Nasimuddin, Group Executive Chairman and Group CEO, Naza Corporation Holdings Sdn Bhd.
Ducati Panigale V4 R

In this latest version of the superbike, its Desmosedici Stradale 1103 cm3 engine has been replaced with the 998 cm3 Desmosedici Stradale R engine to comply with displacement limits set by Superbike World Championship (WSBK) rules, offering extreme performance designed for the track. In fact, the Ducati Panigale V4 R is the most powerful factory motorcycle ever built by Ducati to date.Priced at RM299,900.Ducati Diavel 1260 SPowerful, muscular, agile and effective between the curves for maximum riding enjoyment, the second-generation Diavel 1260 S combines the performance of a maxi-naked with the ergonomics of a muscle cruiser.Built around the Testastretta DVT 1262 engine, the bike is capable of delivering 159 hp at 9,500 rpm and 129 Nm acceleration with a low-rev smoothness ideal for everyday riding or touring.Priced at RM139,900.Ducati Hypermotard 950Given a whole new look, the Ducati ‘fun bike’ takes its cue from the supermotard race world with completely overhauled ergonomics and an ultra-advanced chassis set-up and electronics package.Powering the Hypermotard 950 is a renewed 937 cm3 twin-cylinder Testastretta 11˚ with more muscle, greater pulling power and new electronics to ensure smoother control. Achieving 114hp at 9,000 rpm and a flat torque curve peaking at 9.8kgm at 7,250rpm, the engine is perfect for ultimate on-track sports fun, twisting country roads and everyday urban roads alike.Priced at RM75,900.Ducati Multistrada 1260 EnduroThe new Multistrada 1260 Enduro expands the concept of adventure with new Ducati Testastretta DVT engine which ensures outstanding pulling power right from the low-to-mid rev range.The Enduro is equipped with the most advanced Ducati technology safety features including the Bosch Cornering ABS which maximises active safety even when leaning into curves, Ducati Traction Control, Ride by Wire, Ducati Wheelie Control and semi-active Ducati Skyhook Suspensions (DSS) Evolution.Priced at RM138,900 (Red) and RM139,900 (Sand).Ducati Multistrada 950 SFor the first time, the Multistrada 950 is now available in the S version. The rider can enjoy sheer riding pleasure as the brand’s smallest “multibike” is fitted with the Ducati Skyhook Suspension (DSS) system which continuously adjusts fork and shock absorber damping so the suspension responds instantaneously to changes on the road.Ducati Quick Shift up & down (DQS) is also available on the bike to allow clutch-less upshifting and downshifting, and the bike also features a full-LED headlight, 5” colour TFT display, a Hands-Free System, Cruise Control and backlit switchgear controls, and an upgraded rider-bike interface (HMI) which is more user-friendly.Priced at RM95,900.Ducati Scrambler RangeConsisting of four carefree bikes; Scrambler Icon (RM52,900), Scrambler Full Throttle (RM62,900), Scrambler Desert Sled (RM67,900) and Scrambler Café Racer (RM67,900), this year’s line-up sees several feature upgrades including all-new headlights with LED DRL (Daytime Running light) and automatic LED indicators which boosts bike visibility in traffic, even during the day.The 2019 Scrambler bike range comes complete with the New Bosch Cornering ABS safety feature, exclusive for this vehicle category, which maximises active safety during braking, and for added comfort the seats of the respective bikes have been redesigned to provide the ultimate riding experience.The impressive nine-bike Ducati 2019 line-up is available at authorized dealerships in Petaling Jaya, Sungai Buloh, Kuala Lumpur and Penang. Scrambler Icon.

 Scrambler Full Throttle. Scrambler Desert Sled. Scrambler Cafe Racer.


Dainese created soft-top for Pagani Huayra Roadster

BOLOGNA: Did you know the Pagani Huayra Roadster soft-top was made by Dainese?

The Italian maker of motorcycle clothing, sportswear and protective gear was tasked with coming out with a suitable soft-top for the sportscar.

Dainese’s expertise in technical fabrics enabled the creation of an innovative material made up of different layers of refined material and waterproofed using technology specially developed by the Vicenza-based firm’s R&D department. The aim was to achieve the right balance between flexibility and resistance across every single zone.

The soft-top is a combination of components in High Elastic Modulus Carbon Fiber developed by Pagani, which is connected by means of aluminum and titanium billet joints that stretch the technical fabric.

As the "Pagani Fabric" is closed, predetermined folding areas make it possible for the fabric to follow the folds of the structural members, like origami. This system ensures the durability of the fabric over time and reduces the amount of storage space needed in the car to a minimum. The soft top equipped on the Huayra Roadster offers both a comfortable driving experience and a one-of-a-kind look.

“Creating the reserve soft-top for the Huayra Roadster was a real technical challenge,” said Pagani Automobili chief designer Horacio Pagani.

“Our goal was to provide customers with a folding roof solution, one that takes up minimal space when stored in the car. The soft-top was conceived as a lightweight, resistant tensostructure, in which every single element contributes to carrying out the overall function through tension.”


Pioneering EV trial heralds ability to predict battery lifespan

                LONDON: A world-first, real-life trial of electric vehicles, involving battery analytics specialist Silver Power Systems (SPS), EV manufacturers and academics, has brought closer the holy grail of battery modelling: accurately predicting EV battery lifespan.

With the rapid growth in electrification driven by the UK's 2030 ban on new ICE sales combined with the battery being by far the most expensive component of an EV, it has become necessary for all sectors – from OEMs and battery manufacturers to fleet owners and operators – to understand how the battery is performing and predict how much it is likely to degrade over the vehicle’s lifetime.

Until now, predicting lifespan has been difficult.

While digital models of EV batteries have been created, they have lacked accurate real-world data to back them up.

What’s more, not all batteries are made equal, and not all batteries are treated equally throughout their life, degrading at different rates, subject to different drivers and charging routines, further underlining the need for real-world data to be combined with machine-learning based predictive technology.

Run over the last nine months, the pioneering REDTOP (Real-time Electrical Digital Twin Operating Platform) automotive research programme has sought to bring about a step change in battery understanding, with the objective of creating the world’s most advanced battery "digital twin" – a highly-sophisticated virtual model, linked to a real battery.

Part-funded by The Advanced Propulsion Centre UK (APC), the revolutionary project, led by Silver Power Systems, has seen partners Imperial College, London Electric Vehicle Company (LEVC) and JSCA, the research and development division of the Watt Electric Vehicle Company, join forces on a real-world EV trial.

Since January, some 50 LEVC TX electric taxis and a new EV sports car from the Watt EV Company have collectively travelled over 500,000km as part of the programme. Each vehicle has been fitted with Silver Power Systems’ data-collecting IoT device, which constantly communicates with the company’s cloud-based software.

This data has been analysed by SPS’s machine learning-powered platform EV-OPS, and together with Imperial College’s battery researchers, the world’s most advanced digital twins of actual EV batteries have been created, giving not just a view of real-time battery performance and state-of-health, but also the potential to enable these highly sophisticated battery models to predict battery lifespan.

“This really is the holy grail,” explained Pete Bishop, CTO of Silver Power Systems.

“Understanding how an electric vehicle’s battery is performing right now – and predicting how it will perform over the coming years – is absolutely critical for many sectors. But to date there has been a lack of data and predictive modelling has been largely lab-based.

“By combining a robust real-world trial with our EV-OPS machine-learning analytics capability through the REDTOP programme, we have not only been able to unlock an unprecedented view of real-time battery performance and state-of-health but also create the world’s most advanced digital twin enabling prediction of battery future life.”

SPS’s technology promises benefits for a wide variety of sectors. Unparalleled monitoring gives a total picture of battery activity, identifying differences between batteries (whether performance or charging capability) and – in the long term – building up a complete picture of battery health over the life of the vehicle: a battery ledger.

For electric vehicle manufacturers this monitoring capability gives insights into battery performance enabling them to accelerate the development of battery-powered vehicles.

Fleet operators can gain a complete picture of EV health across their vehicle fleet enabling them to more efficiently run their vehicles (and potentially extend their life), while fleet owners can use SPS’s capabilities to predict the future residual value of vehicles based on future battery health.

OEMs and battery manufacturers can use the technology to enable more accurately underwritten battery warranties, setting warranties on a new battery or managing risk on existing battery, while other sectors who can benefit include insurance providers, transport authorities, councils and even private EV owners for whom having access to data on their own vehicle’s battery performance is beneficial.

In the future, SPS’s vision is for its technology to digitally optimise EV batteries during their life.

“On top of using a combination of real-world data, machine learning and the digital twin to predict future battery degradation, we can use this technology to update an EV’s software via the cloud to change algorithms or parameters to optimise the performance of the battery as the cells age and maximise battery life," said Silver Power Systems programme manager Liam Mifsud.

"For all automotive sectors, the potential to improve battery performance and overall useable life is revolutionary.”


Showtime in Shanghai as automakers race for China edge

                SHANGHAI: Global automakers unveiled new SUVs, electric vehicles, and futuristic concept cars at the Shanghai Auto Show on Wednesday, racing for an edge in the world’s biggest auto market as growth slows after years of frenzied sales.

China’s automotive market remains the most important in the world for manufacturers, with sales jumping 14.9 percent to 24.38 million passenger cars last year, well beyond the 17.55 million bought by US drivers.

With China’s fast-expanding middle class adopting modern, mobile lifestyles, passenger-car sales have nearly quintupled over the past decade.

But volume last year was skewed upward by a short-term purchase incentive and has generally slowed of late as China’s decades-long economic boom loses pace.

A number of automakers have already reported falling China sales so far this year. Analysts warn full-year volume could be flat and possibly contract in 2018 for the first time in memory.

Major carmakers remain bullish at the Shanghai show, China’s biggest automotive showcase.

But they acknowledge they will have to innovate to keep on track as consumer tastes evolve in an ever-changing market.

”We believe the future of driving will be autonomous driving and that is true for China as well,” said Daimler’s China CEO Hubertus Troska, adding the firm would push to bring the next-generation functions to the Asian giant.

He said Mercedes sales grew 37 percent in this year’s first quarter.

”I don’t think we will be at the same level at the end of the year but it is still going to be a very good year,” he said.

As that moderates, manufacturers are focusing on still fast-growing segments like sport-utility vehicles, which are expected to overtake China sedan sales possibly this year.

Ford has even announced plans to try to sell its American-icon pickup trucks in China.

Electric cars have also seen hot growth, fuelled by green incentives from the government, which is mulling new quotas requiring carmakers to produce certain amounts of “new energy” vehicles.

Volkswagen, China’s overall market leader, will introduce a range of new SUV models in China this year and ramp up production of electric vehicles, said its China CEO Jochem Heizmann.

”It’s developing even quicker than we estimated,” he said of SUV sales.

"I am very confident. We are still investing in China, a level of about 4 billion euros (USD4.3mil) this year along with our JVs (joint ventures).”

The Chinese car market soared past the United States eight years ago to become the planet’s top market and in 2016 set a 26th straight annual sales record.

Sales were boosted last year by the government’s temporary halving of a 10-percent purchase tax on small-engine cars in late 2015.

Consultancy IHS Markit warned last week that slower sales had triggered a “rampant price war” in China that could pinch automakers’ global profits.

Analysts say going forward the maturing of the market will benefit larger manufacturers with the scale and product range to pivot along with consumer tastes, and that a shakeout of less-able players is likely in coming years.


New Porsche Macan debuts, priced from RM434K

                KUALA LUMPUR: The refreshed Porsche Macan has arrived in Malaysia, priced from from RM433,154.

It is now available for booking and is offered in three variants: Macan from RM433,154; Macan S from RM623,593; and Macan GTS from RM786,232.

They are backed by 2 years warranty and 2 years free maintenance.

Note that the Macan is still in its first generation, with Porsche set to deliver an all-electric Macan in the second generation from 2023. The electric Macan, codenamed E-Macan, will be sold alongside the combustion engine Macan, once it's out. At least for a few more years until Porsche AG can gauge demand for the electric SUV in different regions of the world.

Featuring an enhanced design with new 3D structural elements and dynamic side blades for a sporty look, the latest Macan has been updated for sharpness, with a modern interior and performance to match.

The Macan's nose has been redesigned with an inlay in the exterior colour that emphasises the car’s width, complementing a new 3D structural element to give the car a more imposing look at the front.

At the back, a striking diffuser in a particularly technical design increases the car’s sportiness when viewed from the rear. LED headlights with the Porsche Dynamic Light System (PDLS) and Sport Design exterior mirrors are now standard on all models.

Inside, the Macan features a sporty and elegant interior with selected equipment from the 911 Carrera, as well as a futuristic centre console with a high-quality glass look, packed with intuitive touch-sensitive surfaces to elevate day-to-day practicality.

The Macan is powered by a redeveloped 2.0 litre inline four-cylinder turbo engine, delivering 261hp and a maximum torque of 400Nm, or an increase of 13hp and 30Nm compared to the pre-facelift Macan.

The Macan S uses a new 2.9-litre V6 biturbo engine that produces 375hp, 26hp more power than before.

This new powerplant propels the vehicle from a standstill to 100kph in 4.6 seconds, onto a top speed of up to 259kph.

Under the bonnet of the new sporty flagship Macan GTS, the 2.9-litre V6 biturbo engine now delivers 434hp – an increase of 59hp.

With the responsiveness and power delivery typical of Porsche GTS cars, it completes the 0 to 100kph sprint in 4.3 seconds when fitted with the Sport Chrono package and reaches a top speed of 272kph.

All engines are coupled to a seven-speed Porsche dual-clutch transmission (PDK) and the Porsche Traction Management (PTM) all-wheel-drive system.

The Macan and Macan S are equipped with a Premium Package as standard.

The package adds more comfort and luxury features such as 14-way electric comfort seats with memory package, Power Steering Plus, Park Assist including reversing camera and surround view, automatic dimming interior and exterior mirrors, and BOSE Surround Sound System.

The Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) now also comes as standard and is available in the Premium Package, actively and continuously regulating the damping force for each individual wheel and adapted specifically for this model.

A total of 14 colours are available for the all-new Macan range, including the new colours Papaya Metallic and Gentian Blue Metallic; Python Green exclusively for the Macan GTS.

With its Individual Colour and Paint To Sample options, Porsche Exclusive Manufaktur further expands the potential for design freedom for the Macan. Larger wheels are also fitted as standard: they measure at least 19 inches for the Macan.

“With its powerful yet sophisticated appearance, the all-new Macan hints at what lies beneath an ideal compact SUV for the driven expressive urbanite, toeing the line brilliantly between sporty exhilaration and dynamic performance even day-to-day around the city,” said Sime Darby Auto Performance chief executive officer Christopher Hunter.


Lotus Engineering goes BattCon

                LONDON: Lotus Engineering is launching a pilot containerised battery testing facility named BattCon, an abbreviation of Battery Containerised Test Facility, to assess energy storage solutions for the booming EV sector.

It will allow Lotus Engineering to carry out various battery cell, module and pack characterisation tests, performance evaluations, and component and lifetime testing under controlled conditions.

The ‘containers’ are individual walk-in laboratories and will be in operation at Lotus HQ in Hethel, Norfolk, as well as the new Lotus Advanced Technology Centre in Wellesbourne, West Midlands.

Each is the size of a standard 40ft shipping container and so can easily be packed up and transported as a mobile testing unit, available to Lotus Engineering customers wherever they are.

Lotus has three operational units as part of the pilot scheme.

For clients, Lotus Engineering will offer an EV safety-compliant workshop facility with specialist staff experienced in testing batteries.

Companies new to the EV field, and those who would otherwise need to invest in additional test facilities, will have access to a fast, efficient and cost-effective solution to develop new technologies and speed up their route to market.

For Lotus itself, the new technology will support ambitious plans to launch a new range of performance vehicles.

Matt Windle, Executive Director, Engineering, Lotus, commented: “As the race intensifies for automotive and other sectors to develop new and novel battery technologies, there will be increased demand for suitable testing facilities. Project BattCon begins to address this problem by evaluating how Lotus Engineering can meet the battery testing opportunities for the UK supply chain and OEMs.”


Perodua raises awareness with National Kidney Foundation

                PETALING JAYA: National automaker Perodua contributed one unit of its best-selling Axia car to the National Kidney Foundation (NKF) in conjunction with the 10th anniversary of the 'World Kidney Day' celebration.

Members of the public stand a chance to win the Axia by participating in the 'Spot & Ride' contest as well as raise awareness about kidney care and the cause of kidney failure.

“This collaboration with the National Kidney Foundation is our way to create awareness about the cause of kidney problems and to encourage people to live a healthier life,” said Perodua president and chief executive officer, Datuk Aminar Rashid Salleh.

The contest, which is part of the “World Kidney Day” celebrations at Sunway Pyramid, kicks-off  Feb 28 and ends Mar 1, will see participants contributing an entry fee of RM10 for the chance to win an Axia. (Terms and Conditions apply).

Each entry would entitle a participant a 30-second window to search and spot a winning ticket in a Perodua Axia. The ticket can be traded into attractive prizes including goodie bags and discount vouchers as well as be submitted as an entry ticket to win a Perodua Axia during a lucky draw contest which be held on Mar 29, 2015.

According to the NKF website, the NGO needs to raise RM12 million annually to subsidise the dialysis treatments cost for 1,509 patients who seek treatment at its 28 dialysis centres nationwide.

“Therefore, all fund raised from the contest and road show will be channelled to NKF which will be used by the kidney patients who are registered under NKF,” said Aminar.


Etiqa offers ‘Drive less save more’ campaign

                KUALA LUMPUR: Etiqa launched its usage-based “Drive Less Save More” motor insurance and takaful add-on that offers drivers rebates of up to 30% of their premiums or contribution based on vehicle mileage clocked.

In a statement today, it said this optional add-on is free, with rebates paid whenever a claim is made at a customer’s convenience, subject to a minimum of 10 days between each upload.

The add-on is available to all private car comprehensive drivers.
With people working from home (WFH) and having restricted mobility due to Covid-19, people are driving less while still having full motor insurance or takaful.

Despite the pandemic, the risk of cars getting stolen remains the same.

READ MORE: Pacific & Orient Insurance and Berjaya Sompo are alternative insurers in 'drive less, pay less' plans

Cash rebates is calculated on a daily basis, as a percentage of a customer’s basic premium or contribution (minus no claim discount)

It added the “Drive Less Save More” add-on is available when buying new or renewing motor insurance or takaful.

To qualify for the rebates, customers need to submit a photo of their vehicle number plate as well as car odometer via the Etiqa Smile mobile app.

Subsequently, during the policy or certificate period, customers will need to upload an image of their odometer reading as often as they like, with a minimum gap of 10 days between uploads in order to obtain their rebates.

The images will be used to determine the mileage driven and to calculate the corresponding rebate amount.


First driverless taxi hits the streets of Singapore

                SINGAPORE: The first driverless taxi began work today in a limited public trial on the streets of Singapore.

Developer nuTonomy invited a select group of people to download their app and ride for free in its "robo-taxi" in a western Singapore hi-tech business district, hoping to get feedback ahead of a planned launch of the service in 2018.

"This is really a moment in history that's going to change how cities are built, how we really look at our surroundings," said nuTonomy executive Doug Parker.

The trial rides took place in a Mitsubishi i-MiEv electric vehicle, with an engineer sitting behind the steering wheel to monitor the system and take control if necessary. The trial is on an on-going basis, nuTonomy said, and follows private testing that began in April.

Parker, whose company has partnered with the Singapore government on the project, said he hoped to have 100 taxis working commercially in the Southeast Asian citystate by 2018. Nutonomy is one of several companies racing to launch self-driving vehicles, with automakers and technology firms striking new alliances.

Swedish automaker Volvo AB said last week it had agreed to a US$300 million alliance with ride-hailing service Uber to develop a driverless vehicle.

Israeli driving assistant software maker Mobileye NV said its vehicle, developed with Delphi Automotive Plc, would be ready for production by 2019, while Ford Motor Co said its self-driving car was slated for 2021.


January vehicle sales up 1%, says MAA

                KUALA LUMPUR: Total vehicle sales in January inched up by only one per cent or 329 units to 50,602 units from the 50,273 units recorded in the same month last year, the Malaysian Automotive Association (MAA) said.

However, the sales volume for the month was 22 per cent lower than the previous month due to excessive year-end offers given by car companies in December 2014.

"The announcement that car prices would be lower once the Goods and Services Tax (GST) is implemented had caused consumers to hold back purchases," MAA said in a statement here Tuesday.

The sale of passenger vehicles in January decreased to 44,697 units from 44,702 units in the same month last year.

In contrast, commercial vehicle sales increased to 5,905 units from 5,571 units in January last year.

Meanwhile, total vehicle production went up to 56,654 units in January from 55,503 units registered in the same month last year.

Passenger vehicle production grew to 52,387 units from the 50,874 units.

However, commercial vehicle production fell to 4,267 units from 4,629 units.

On outlook, the MAA said the sales volume for February is expected to be lower than January because of a shorter working period, the result of Chinese New Year festive holidays.


India plans new battery swap policy for electric scooters, rickshaws

The draft policy will separate battery costs from the upfront cost of buying electric vehicles, driving EV adoption. — Reuters
NEW DELHI: India is planning new rules to make batteries used in scooters, motorcyles and three-wheeled rickshaws swappable across different models, part of a proposed new policy released by think-tank Niti Aayog.

Niti Aayog said the draft policy, which proposes standards for battery pack dimensions and charging connectors to support interoperability, will decouple battery costs from the upfront cost of buying electric vehicles, driving EV adoption.

Swappable batteries are not currently used in India's fast-growing electric scooter segment on any commercial scale.

The draft policy did not include details of any investment plans. It will be open to public comments until June 5, after which a final policy will be produced. Once finalised, it will be in force until March 31, 2025.

The think-tank has also proposed offering buyers incentives for the purchase of EVs with swappable batteries. While it did not give further details, Reuters has previously reported that the incentives could be up to 20% of the total battery lease cost.

India said in February it would introduce a new policy for battery swapping to boost sales of EVs, which are key to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's carbon reduction and climate change agenda.

The move is a boost for companies like India's Reliance Industries and Britain's BP Plc, which last year formed a battery-swapping joint venture in the country.

Others in the EV battery field in India include Japan's Honda Motor, Indian start-up Sun Mobility, and motorbike maker Hero MotoCorp, which has formed a partnership with Taiwan's Gogoro.


Amsterdam makes a new push to keep cars out

                AMSTERDAM: The Dutch capital is proposing new restrictions on through-traffic as it redoubles efforts to keep cars from flooding the central city.

While Amsterdam’s well-known network of dedicated bicycle lanes have made cycling a swift and popular mode of transport across the Dutch capital, the city is not exactly the car-free paradise outsiders might assume.

Among residents, automobiles still accounted for almost 20% of all journeys in Amsterdam in 2021 — and 55% of trips undertaken by visitors, according to the city. In a dense, older city with narrow streets and conflicting demands for access, this causes problems, notably for public transit in the central city, where trams and buses often struggle to make headway as they mix with cars.

In response, city leaders have been working to limit the number of private vehicles in this equation, by removing automobile parking spaces and banning car traffic on certain streets.

Now Amsterdam is proposing a wider crackdown on cars criss-crossing its city center by closing sections of several streets to through-traffic — both to help clear street space and ultimately to wean citizens off the habit of treating the city core as a standard route across town.

These interventions would cover multiple locations in the metropolitan area outside the historic core, including arteries around the Vondelpark, in the City West and East Amsterdam areas, as well as four bridges over the Amstel river. The bans on through-traffic are designed to reroute cars to the A10 highway, which would function as a distribution ring, enabling motorists to access each city district separately.

“The city is growing. The space is not,” said Amsterdam’s deputy mayor Melanie van der Horst. “With more people, we need to have different ways of living together,” she said in an interview. Amsterdam added over 189,000 residents since 2000, and it forecasts 250,000 new residents in the city by 2050.

Several other nearby EU cities, such as Paris and Brussels, have also launched efforts to combat though-traffic, often as elements of larger campaigns to reduce car use, improve air quality and achieve climate goals.

In Amsterdam, the vehicle restrictions follow up on the city’s new speed restrictions, set to take effect in December 2023, that will cut maximum speed limits across much of the city to 30kph, from the current 50kph.

Adopted to curb traffic crashes as well as improve transit service, the new rules allow areas that have separate lanes for buses and trams to remain at 50kph. “Where (buses and trams) drive together with a car, that slows public transport down,” Van der Horst said. “We’ve looked at taking out the car.”

The busy Vondelpark area — where public transport and cars share the same pavement — is likely to serve as the first site for an implementation test.

The closure to through-traffic of four locations around the park, in the southwest side of the city, is expected to be the most promising, as public transport experiences many delays in the area. The changes are also expected to yield more space for bicycles and pedestrians, as well as additional green space.

Van der Horst doesn’t expect the street changes to be expensive to implement: Large pots with plantings can serve as bollards to halt vehicles, if the proposal is approved.

“We’ll just literally block it, with flowers,” she said. “It’s pretty Dutch.”


Hyundai Mobis inks deal to co-develop software platform

                SEOUL: Hyundai Mobis and German software platform expert Vector have agreed to the joint development of a vehicle software platform.

Vector, a partner of AUTOSAR, which endorses global standards for automotive software, is a leading provider of development tools and software platforms to global automakers and suppliers.

As software platforms have become a critical component in defining competitiveness in vehicle manufacturing, automakers are now requiring their suppliers to adopt AUTOSAR-based software platforms.

Through the memorandum of understanding (MoU), the two companies are anticipating increased competitiveness of their automotive software in the global automotive industry.

The two companies will first install the co-developed software in core components related to parking systems, autonomous driving sensors, infotainment systems, and electrified parts. It is also expected that this list of core components installed with the platform will grow further.

For Hyundai Mobis, this partnership is only the start of more long-term partnerships to come with major software companies that have elemental technologies for automated driving.

The first of these partnerships will most likely be concluded in the areas of automotive communication solutions and autonomous driving sensors.

Hyundai Mobis is the parts and service subsidiary of Hyundai Motor.


UMW Toyota Motor opens bookings for 2024 Alphard (RM538K) and Vellfire (RM438K)

                SHAH ALAM: UMW Toyota Motor has opened bookings for the 2024 fourth-generation Toyota Alphard and Vellfire.

The luxury MPVs (multi-purpose vehicles) are offered in the Alphard 2.4T Executive Lounge and Toyota Vellfire 2.5 variants, with estimated on-the-road without insurance prices at RM538,000 and RM438,000 respectively.

They are available in four colours; Platinum White Pearl, Precious Metal, Precious Leo-Blond (Alphard only) and Black.

The new Alphard 2.4T Executive Lounge features a 2.4-litre 16-valve DOHC engine with turbocharger and intercooler paired with a Direct Shift 8-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters.

Meanwhile, the latest Vellfire features a 7-speed Super CVT-i with Sports Sequential Shiftmatic and has a Front Performance Brace that provides efficient power transmission for
smooth acceleration.

Datuk Ravindran K., president of UMW Toyota Motor, said the new 7-seater model has “an air of luxury that customers can be proud of.”

The new Alphard and Vellfire have a distinctive grille and full LED Lamps with sequential signal lamps, luxurious cabins featuring leather and woodgrain materials, and a fixed panoramic glass roof.

A 64-colour illumination along the side of the ceiling adds to the classy environment inside the Alphard and Vellfire.

The driver’s area is said to be akin to a private jet cockpit with all mechanical switches and control buttons positioned optimally for easy reach.

Likewise, the instrument panel has a 12.3-inch full-colour TFT digital combination meter paired with the new head-up display.

Both front and rear first-row seats have heater and ventilation functions.

The Alphard 2.4T Executive Lounge’s rear first-row seats have a seat massage function.

UMW Toyota Motor is also introducing the world’s first Hybrid Long Slide of up to 480mm for the first row rear seats of the Alphard (power and manual) and Vellfire (manual only).

The Alphard and Vellfire seats are also fitted with an Anti-Vibration Structure which reduces the feel of impact during the drive, especially on bumpy and uneven roads, for a more comfortable driving experience.

The Alphard and Vellfire come with Toyota Safety Sense technology, with enhanced Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC), Lane Departure Alert (LDA), Road Sign Assist (RSA), and Adaptive High-beam System (AHS).

ALSO READ:2024 4th-gen Alphard and Vellfire: 2.5-litre petrol, 2.4-litre turbo and hybrid powertrains


Parking bay sells for over RM5mil in Hong Kong

                HONG KONG: A single car parking space has been sold for a whopping HK$10 million (RM5.4mil) at a luxury Hong Kong apartment complex, local media reported on Friday.

The 12.5 square-metre (135 square-foot) spot is part of a development on The Peak, a swanky area that has attracted some of the city's richest residents since colonial times.

Boasting breath-taking views over Victoria Harbour, the hilltop has eye-watering property prices - including some of the world's most expensive real estate.

While Hong Kong's wealthy think nothing of dropping millions of dollars for their homes, millions of the city's residents struggle to afford the rent on shoe-box apartments - many smaller than the parking space.

A 2019 report by UBS said a "skilled worker" needed 22 years of income to afford a 60-square-metre flat, up from 12 years a decade ago, with salaries staying largely the same since 2008.

Another study from the same year listed the average property price in Hong Kong at US$1.2 million (RM5mil).

The luxury property market has rebounded following a period of uncertainty around growing political unrest in the city, and appears to have weathered the economic impact of Covid-19.


How Tesla defined a new era for the global auto industry

Visitors looking at a Model 3 on display at an auto show in southwestern China's Chongqing Municipality on June 13. — AP
FRANKFURT/BEIJING/DETROIT: Tesla Inc’s rapid rise to become the world’s most valuable carmaker could mark the start of a new era for the global auto industry, defined by a Silicon Valley approach to software that is overtaking old-school manufacturing know-how.

Tesla’s ascent took many investors by surprise. But executives at Daimler AG, the parent company of Mercedes-Benz, had a close-up view starting in 2009 of how Tesla and its chief executive Elon Musk were taking a new approach to building vehicles that challenged the established system.

Daimler, which bears the name of the man who invented the modern car 134 years ago, bought a nearly 10% Tesla stake in May 2009 in a deal which provided a US$50 million lifeline for the struggling start-up.

That investment gave Mercedes engineers an inside view of how Musk was willing to launch technology that wasn’t perfect, and then repeatedly upgrade it, using smartphone style over-the-air updates, paying little regard to early profitability.

Mercedes engineers helped Tesla develop its Model S luxury sedan in exchange for access to Tesla’s partially hand-assembled battery packs, but in 2014 Daimler decided to sell their stake amid doubts Tesla’s approach could be industrialised at scale.

Tesla would go on to pioneer new approaches in manufacturing, designs in software and electronic architecture which enable it to introduce innovations faster than rivals, leaving analysts to draw comparisons with Apple.

Three people directly involved with the Mercedes side of the collaboration said the brief partnership highlighted the collision of old and new engineering cultures: the German obsession with long-term safety and control, which rewarded evolution, and the Silicon Valley carmaker’s experimental approach which embraced radical thinking and fast innovation.

“Elon Musk has been walking on the edge of a razorblade in terms of the aggression with which he pushes some technologies,” said a former Mercedes engineer who worked on the partnership.

By contrast, Mercedes and other established automakers are still not comfortable about releasing a new technology, such as partially automated driving, without years of testing.

Tesla did not respond to requests for comment.

Investors favour the Tesla model, in an industry undergoing fundamental and dizzying change even though the US carmaker will face an onslaught of competing electric vehicles from established automakers during the next few years.

They are putting their money on Musk and his company, even though Mercedes-Benz alone sold 935,089 cars in the first half of 2020, dwarfing the 179,050 delivered by Tesla in the same period.

Today, Tesla is worth nearly US$304.6 billion, more than six times Daimler's US$47.7 billion market capitalisation.

Two cultures collide

Daimler and Tesla began collaborating after Mercedes engineers, who were developing a second-generation electric Smart car, bought a Tesla Roadster. They were impressed by the way Tesla packaged batteries, so arranged a visit to Silicon Valley to meet Musk in January 2009 and ordered 1,000 battery packs.

The collaboration expanded. At a joint press conference in the Mercedes-Benz museum in Stuttgart in May 2009, Tesla said the partnership would “accelerate bringing our Tesla Model S to production and ensure that it is a superlative vehicle”.

For its part, Mercedes wanted to use Tesla’s batteries to power an electric version of its compact Mercedes-Benz B-Class. The Tesla Model S would hit the road in 2012. An electric B-Class, arrived in showrooms two years later.

 Musk dancing onstage during a delivery event for Tesla China-made Model 3 cars in Shanghai on Jan 7. — Reuters

Despite having batteries supplied by Tesla, the Mercedes had a shorter operating range after Daimler engineers configured the B-class more conservatively to address their concerns about long-term battery degradation and the risk of overheating, a second Daimler staffer who worked on the joint projects told Reuters.

German engineers found that Tesla engineers had not done long-term stress tests on its battery. “We had to devise our own programme of stress tests,” the second Daimler engineer said.

Before starting production of a new car, Daimler engineers specify a “Lastenheft” - a blueprint laying out the properties of each component for suppliers. Significant changes cannot be made once the design is frozen.

“This is also the way you can guarantee that we will be profitable during mass production. Tesla was not as concerned about this aspect,” the second Daimler source said.

Daimler’s engineers suggested the underbody of the Model S needed reinforcing to prevent debris from the road puncturing a battery pack, the first Daimler engineer said.

To quash doubts about safety and security, following a series of battery fires, Tesla raised the ride height of its vehicles, using an over-the-air update, and a few months later, in March 2014, said it would add a triple underbody shield to new Model S cars and offered to retrofit existing cars.

Musk was able to make adjustments quickly thanks to Tesla’s ability to burn through more cash during development.

“At Mercedes you can make such adjustments every three years at best,” the engineer said.

The Model S, a four-door electric sedan would go on to outsell the flagship Mercedes-Benz S-Class in the United States in May 2013, and outstrip S-Class deliveries globally by 2017.

Musk: Innovate or go

Musk's relentless focus on innovation explains, in part, why he has disrupted the traditional auto world. In an interview at the 2020 Air Warfare Symposium, published on YouTube, he was asked about the importance of innovation among his employees.

“We certainly need those that do advanced engineering to be innovative,” Musk said.

“The incentive structure is set up ... such that innovation is rewarded. Making mistakes along the way does not come with a big penalty. But failure to try to innovate at all ... comes with a big penalty. You will be fired.”

Established automakers are playing catch-up to Tesla, designing their own software operating systems and dedicated electric cars.

Mercedes will release its EQS next year - a four-door limousine built on a dedicated electric vehicle platform, with an operating range of 700km. A new version of the Mercedes S-Class, which will have combustion and hybrid powertrains and semi-autonomous driver assistance systems, is due this year.

From an investor perspective, traditional players face billions of dollars in restructuring costs as they transform product lines and factories to move away from internal combustion technology

“No one is going to give an OEM (established automaker) a five-year window to say ... you can totally retool your business, and I am going to buy in and fund this journey,” said Mark Wakefield, co-leader of automotive and industrials practice at consulting firm AlixPartners.

Start-ups, however, get time from investors to learn, make mistakes and grow, he added.

Investors are betting on Tesla’s ability to scale up manufacturing just as they once backed Toyota Motor Corp, which defined the auto industry’s last era with its mastery of highly efficient, high-quality lean production.

Toyota overtook the market capitalszation of former industry leader General Motors in 1996, though it wasn’t until 2008 that it sold more vehicles than its Detroit rival.

The Japanese giant also cultivated ties with Tesla, with the US startup helping it design an electrified RAV4 compact sports utility vehicle under a 2010 deal.

Toyota was impressed by the speed with which Tesla came up with the new design, but ultimately decided Tesla’s methods were not suitable for mass production by a mainstream manufacturer when Toyota’s standards for product quality and durability were applied, two company insiders familiar with the partnership said.

Toyota said the joint project involved cooperation on the development of electric cars, parts and production system.

“Toyota accomplished what the project set out to achieve, and it ended in October 2014 after Tesla delivered roughly 2,500 electric powertrain systems over three years” for an electrified RAV4 crossover SUVs, a spokesman said.

Both the Toyota and Daimler collaborations were agreed before the Volkswagen emissions-cheating scandal in 2015, which prompted a global regulatory backlash and forced carmakers to step up investments in electric cars.

“That was all before dieselgate, which changed the economics of electric and combustion-engined cars,” a senior Daimler manager said. “Tesla has a lead. Let’s see if they can scale up.”

READ MORE:
Tesla's Musk qualifies for US$2.1 billion payday
Tesla hiring servicing staff in 'unsupportive' Singapore


Most Malaysians guilty of using their phones while driving

                PETALING JAYA: Ask any Malaysian if they have ever used their mobile phones while driving and chances are, most of them will admit to being guilty as charged.

A lawyer in her 50s, who wished to be known only as Eli, said she was typing a message at a red light.

A police officer pulled up alongside, told her that it was an offence to do so and issued her a summons, even though she argued that her car was stationary.

“The case went to court and I fought it myself. The judge found me guilty as it was illegal to use the phone, even when the traffic light is red,” Eli said, adding that she had to pay the RM300 compound recently.

Meanwhile, an audit assistant who declined to be named said he rear-ended another car last month as he did not realise that the traffic lights had turned red and all other cars had stopped.

He was playing games on his handphone after work as the traffic was slow-moving and he thought he could split his attention between his phone and the road.

“It was really boring being stuck in the jam so I whipped out my phone to play a game. I really should have focused on driving.

“Luckily, the cost to fix the dents and scratches was not too high as the impact wasn’t great,” he said, adding that he will not repeat it again.

A sales manager, who wanted to be known only as Marlene, said she learnt a hard lesson after crashing into a motorcyclist while looking at the Waze navigation application on her phone.

“I was so focused on the on-screen map that I made an abrupt turn without checking if there were any vehicles near my car.

“I noticed too late that a motorcyclist was beside me.

“Our vehicles collided and he was thrown off his bike. I offered to send him to the hospital,” she related.

Marlene, 29, said the motorcyclist, who escaped with light injuries, forgave her and left the scene.

“It was a scary experience. Since then, I have never made any turns without checking my surroundings first,” she added.


The Shark Skwal is a helmet with LEDs

                PETALING JAYA: Modern cars with LED lighting are now commonplace. Even helmet makers are getting into the act - all in the name of safety.

The Shark Skwal is the first full-faced helmet on the market to feature LEDs. Its modern lines are enhanced with four integrated LED lights on the chin and forehead vents, as well as on both sides of the rear spoiler.

Once turned on the LED’s glow a yellow/green colour, which not only stands out but also raises visibility at night. The lights can be on permanently, or set to blink. Battery life on the LEDs is up to five hours if set to be on permanently and up to eight hours if set to blink, the battery is charged by USB.

The French helmet brand is known for its colourful graphics and innovative designs and the SKWAL continues that trend.

The SKWAL has a new shape and its rear spoiler enhances its aerodynamics and solid stability. It also features a new visor system, Autoseal, which uses a sprung visor that keeps it perfectly in place, keeping water out and hugely reducing noise.

Despite the new technology and LED battery, the helmet remains light and weighs around 1470grams. It also features SHARK’s Easyfit system for glasses wearers, has an internal sun visor and can be fitted with SHARK’s Bluetooth unit SHARKTooth – other Bluetooth systems can also be fitted.


Bolivia's new lithium tsar says country should go it alone

A Bolivian flag flying on the Isla Incahuasi in the Salar de Uyuni (Uyuni Salt Flats) in Potosi, Bolivia. South America controls about 70% of the world's reserves of lithium. — Bloomberg

LA PAZ: The new chief of Bolivia’s state-owned lithium company YLB plans strict limits on foreign investment in extraction and processing of the white metal key to electric vehicle batteries, he said in his first interview with international media since taking the reins this month.

Juan Carlos Zuleta, a lithium expert who has worked in Chile and Bolivia, said a deal with a German firm that was aborted last year would remained shelved, while another with a Chinese partner was being re-assessed.

“It is important for the international community to know that Bolivian law says lithium should be extracted and processed by Bolivians,” he said in an hour-long interview at YLB’s headquarter here. “Now we are here to comply with the law.”

He was referring to a constitution put in place under former socialist leader Evo Morales, who resigned and fled the country in November after a disputed election and widespread protests.

Zuleta said Bolivia would not strike deals in the short-term allowing overseas firms with more advanced expertise to come in and help ramp up extraction. Instead he would look to strengthen local know-how and work with outside expert advisers.

Bolivia, Chile and Argentina form South American’s “lithium triangle.” The US Geological Survey estimates that Bolivia has 9 million tonnes of identified lithium resources buried beneath its famed salt flats, the largest being the Salar de Uyuni.

However, its lithium industry barely got off the ground when Morales was in office, due to a lack of local expertise, push-back by local communities, tougher conditions and higher extraction costs than in neighbouring Chile.

Analysts said many of those same obstacles still exist and that with low global lithium prices it will be tough for Bolivia to create a commercial lithium industry any time soon.

Zuleta said he can boost technical expertise through a network of global experts, while leveraging new, little-tested technology like direct lithium extraction.

Bolivia has been producing around 400 metric tones of lithium per year in a test site, a tiny amount, he said, but should be able to scale up fast.

“I guess if everything happens in the manner we are hoping it will happen we could be reaching the goal to produce around 50,000 metric tonnes in the next five years... That’s possible, we just have to put things in the right place and get to work.”

He added a deal with German firm ACI Systems struck under Morales but scrapped last year would not move forward or be revived. “We don’t see in the near future any possibility to reinstate that kind of arrangement.”

A separate deal with a Chinese partner Xinjiang TBEA was also under scrutiny though he hoped it could move forward under the right conditions.

“We’re not going to leave this project behind,” he said referring a 15,000 tonne capacity lithium plant. He said the plant should be complete by the end of the year and ramp up to full production one to two years after that.

Zuleta pointed to the global electric vehicle revolution spreading to South America as a positive, though agreed there was a major caveat to all his plans: new elections on May 3.

“We hope that we will have the opportunity to accomplish all the goals we are proposing right now, but we still have to see what the final results will be in May.”