Lotus Emira in detail

                HETHEL: The Lotus Emira is an all-new mid-engined premium sports car that built on the legacy of the Elise, Exige and Evora, the Emira represents a quantum leap forward for Lotus.

The Emira is the first all-new Lotus sports car to be delivered under Vision80, the strategic plan which is guiding the transformation of Lotus as it moves towards its 80th anniversary in 2028.

Pronounced "Eh-meer-ah", the word features in numerous ancient languages and often translates as "commander" or "leader".

The Emira has been developed on a new lightweight bonded aluminium chassis, technology pioneered by Lotus and which remains an intrinsic part of the company’s sports car DNA.

That innovative vehicle architecture, known as Lotus Sports Car Architecture, is wrapped with a bold and sculpted design using cues clearly developed from the Evija. Key dimensions of the Emira are length 4,412mm; width 1,895mm; height 1,225mm; and wheelbase 2,575mm.

Two petrol engines

First customer cars will start to be delivered around the world from next spring. Powering the Emira will be a choice of two petrol engines.

At launch, the first cars will be available as limited-production "First Edition" models powered by the much-loved and Lotus-honed 3.5-litre V6 which cut its Hethel teeth powering the Exige and Evora.

From summer 2022, the first new Lotus sports car engine for more than a decade makes its debut, with the Emira powered by AMG. The new-to-Lotus AMG unit is a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder inline-4 from the performance division of Mercedes-Benz.

Working with Lotus for the first time, AMG has come on board as technical partner on the Emira programme, with some fundamental changes made to the in-line four-cylinder set-up for its Lotus debut.

Transverse-mounted and delivering rear-wheel drive, the unit has been modified with a new air intake system and new exhaust to suit the character of the Emira.

The second engine is more familiar, the 3.5-litre supercharged Toyota V6 that is so loved by drivers of the Exige and Evora. Cars will be available with a manual, automatic and Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT).

Across the Emira range, power output will between 360bhp and 400bhp at launch, with 0-100kph acceleration in less than 4.5 seconds and top speeds of up to 290kph. Maximum torque will be 430Nm and CO2 emissions will start below 180g/km. The car has a target weight of 1,405kg in its lightest form, and prices will start at less than £60,000.

Exterior

Vertical all-LED headlamps are standard across the range, with a wing-inspired twin blade design also familiar from the Evija. The bonnet houses the current iteration of the iconic Lotus roundel, its first appearance on a new Lotus sports car and slightly larger than on previous models.

Looking at the Emira in profile, the sculpted section cut into the door leads air flow towards the intake ahead of the rear wheel. This serves a dual purpose, providing air for the engine but also to cool it. The Emira name badge is visible from the side, integrated into the C-pillar. All wheels are 20-inches in diameter; as standard they will be fitted with a Goodyear Eagle F1 Supersport tyre, while a Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 is a cost option available in conjunction with the Lotus Drivers Pack. Both tyres have been specially developed for the Emira by their manufacturer.

At the rear, the Lotus wordmark dominates the integrated bumper, above a body coloured panel that’s clearly inspired by the rear of the Evija. At each end is an exit vent for air from the wheel arch. Each corner has a flat C-shaped LED light cluster linked by a slimline high-level brake light. Below is a black section housing twin exhaust pipes either side of the number plate and with an air diffuser underneath to aid downforce.

Efficient aerodynamics has been at the heart of the Lotus brand since the company was founded in 1948. It is a philosophy linked to delivering outstanding performance whether a car is on the road or race track. There are no active aerodynamics in the Emira; it is the only model in its class to create passive downforce that’s balanced between the front and rear axles at all speeds, tuned to the weight distribution and suspension geometry of the car. It means as downforce increases with speed, generating higher grip through corners, the handling characteristics remain constant, precise and predictable.

The Emira has two defined chassis and suspension settings. Tour is tuned for everyday road use, delivering the optimum blend of Lotus dynamic performance and handling with a more comfortable ride. Sports is available with the optional Lotus Drivers Pack and provides a slightly stiffer suspension set-up for enhanced dynamic capability and feel. Hydraulic steering provides excellent feedback for the driver.

Interior

The Emira has a modern cockpit environment with the essential controls to hand and minimum distraction.

The wraparound nature of the dashboard as it blends into the door trim creates a cossetted feeling that makes the driver feel at one with the car. The raised gear shifter enhances that emotion.

There are a high number of soft-trimmed surfaces, that blend with modern technical finishes to create a premium experience for the driver. There are details added in tribute to the heritage and sporting success of Lotus.

Examples include the positioning of the gearstick on manual cars, which echoes that of the iconic Esprit, and the semi-exposed gear linkage visible at the base of the centre console on V6 manual cars, as on the Elise and Exige. Adding to the sense of theatre is the protective red cover over the start/stop button.

The two seats have been designed to combine high lateral support for high-speed cornering with total comfort for long distance journeys. There is four-way electric adjustment on the standard seat, with the option to upgrade to a premium sports seat with 12-way electric adjustment for both the driver and passenger. All seats are unique to the Emira. The dramatic supercar-like low stance of the car has been achieved while matching best-in-class ingress/egress and headroom.

Also unique to the Emira is the flat-bottomed sports steering wheel with metallic spoke detail and integrated controls. The interior features ambient and wraparound lighting as well as map lights.

Features available on the Emira include keyless go, cruise control, rain-sensing wipers, electric folding door mirrors, rear parking sensors (with front sensors as an option), auto-dimming rear view mirror, curtain airbags, launch control (as part of optional Lotus Drivers Pack), and a stolen vehicle tracker.

Advanced Driver Assistance Systems

Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) available on the Emira include adaptive cruise control, anti-collision system, fatigue alert, road sign information, vehicle speed limiter, lane departure warning, rear cross traffic alert, lane change assist.

The glass area has been designed to provide good all-round visibility for daily use.

Access to the car’s infotainment system is via a 10.25-inch centrally mounted touch-screen, with an additional 12.3-inch TFT driver’s display behind the steering wheel. All content is exclusive to Lotus has been designed and developed by an in-house team. Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are integrated as standard.

Also exclusive to Lotus is the availability of a 10-channel premium sound system from highly respected British brand KEF. This is the company’s first ever automotive partnership and features its signature Uni-Q™? technology, a configuration which dispenses with separated tweeter and mid-range, instead combining both into an acoustically idealised single unit.

Finished with a distinctive bespoke speaker fret design, Uni-Q covers the entire mid and high-frequency sound spectrum from a single point in space, delivering a more coherent, hyper-realistic sound experience.

Storage is vital in sports car and the Emira’s cabin strives to give as much space as possible. It has twin central cup holders with a phone storage slot between them, and door bins that can accommodate a 500ml bottle. Practicality also comes from the glovebox, trinket tray ahead of the gearstick, armrest between the seats with USB and 12v ports, plus a console net for bottles or documents.

Luggage or other large items can be stored behind the two seats (208 litres) or in the boot to the rear of the engine. This space (151 litres) will take a standard-sized flight case or a set of golf clubs.

Manufacturing will take place at Lotus’ famous home in Hethel, Norfolk, following more than £100 million of new investment in the company’s UK facilities.

The highly skilled operations teams will be supported by new processes and technologies. An all-new paintshop features robotic application – a first for Lotus that will improve quality, capacity and process repeatability.

Bookings open worldwide

Lotus retailers around the world are now taking deposits for the Emira. A digital visualiser showcasing the car’s design is live at www.lotuscars.com.

The Emira is available in six exterior paint colours at launch – Hethel Yellow, Shadow Grey, Magma Red, Nimbus Grey, Dark Verdant and the launch finish of Seneca Blue.

Seven interior colours are available – Black Nappa leather, Red Nappa leather, Grey Nappa leather, Tan Nappa leather, Black Alcantara with grey stitch, Black Alcantara with red stitch and Black Alcantara with yellow stitch.

There are five wheel choices – cast 10-spoke, gloss black 10-spoke, silver forged V-spoke, gloss black forged V-spoke and diamond cut forged V-spoke) – with four brake caliper colours – black, red, yellow and silver.

The Emira will make its public dynamic debut this coming weekend at the Goodwood Festival of Speed (July 8-11).


Marchionne voted 'World Car Person'

                GENEVA: The late Sergio Marchionne has been picked as the World Car Person Of The Year For 2019 by 80 World Car Awards (WCA) jurors from 24 countries.

At the time of his passing last July, Marchionne was FCA CEO;  CNH Industrial chairman; and Ferrari chairman/CEO.

World Car jurors voted for Italian-Canadian Marchionne over several other motor industry executives, engineers, designers and entrepreneurs from all corners of the globe.

The trophy was received by FCA president/CEO Mike Manley on behalf of his former boss.

The award recognises his accomplishment in taking two declining, regionally-focused companies and forging them into one profitable global entity.

In addition, he spun off Ferrari as a highly successful separate business, solidifying the future of that iconic brand. And, shortly before his death, he set FCA on a defined five-year course to ensure its continued success.

Marchionne was — and still is — regarded as one of the ultimate "car guys" of the modern era.

Meanwhile, the World Car 2019 will be announced at the New York Auto Show on April 17.


Ferrari CEO moves fast like Musk while forging own path on EVs

                MARANELLO: One turns 20 this year, the other shipped its first car shortly after World War II. The former wants to bring sustainable transportation to the masses, while the latter sells speed and extravagance to the world’s wealthiest. One’s cars quietly whir, and the other’s roar.

Tesla Inc. and Ferrari NV have little in common, and won’t for another few years. But in one of the few interviews he’s given since becoming chief executive officer of the Italian supercar manufacturer 17 months ago, Ferrari chief executive officer Benedetto Vigna complimented the electric vehicle maker led by Elon Musk while drawing clear distinctions between their respective paths forward.

Speaking at Ferrari’s Maranello headquarters, Vigna, 53, credited Tesla with accelerating change within an industry steeped in engine cylinders.

The executive who pioneered sensors used in billions of iPhones discussed how Ferrari will navigate the shift to batteries from combustion engines, the runaway success of the brand’s newest model line and the future of luxury.

Here are excerpts from the conversation that have been edited and condensed for length and clarity:

Q: What have you learned from Tesla?

The big contribution that Tesla has made to the automotive industry? It was a wake-up call. Things used to happen too slowly. Tesla shook up the industry and accelerated processes and decisions. They were faster and more agile.

Q: How unique is Ferrari’s path towards electrification?

Electrification is a new way to provide our customers a unique driving experience, and I’ve no doubt that our electric powertrains will give clients the same thrills of combustion engines. The point is how to extract the best emotion from the use of this technology, giving something unique to the clients.

Driving thrills is a combination of factors: longitudinal acceleration, lateral acceleration, sound, gear-changing and braking. This doesn’t change if the powertrain is electric.

Q: Is Ferrari on track with its electrification plans?

Yes, we’re fully on track to unveil our first fully electric Ferrari in 2025. That means it will go into the market the following year.

Q: What will be the main differences between an electric Ferrari and other cars?

Well, there are functional cars, that have the goal of moving people from point A to point B, emitting zero carbon dioxide. You don’t care about its brand; what really matters is that it moves you. Separately, there are emotional cars that gives you a unique driving experience, like Ferraris.

Q: How do you consider Tesla?

For me, it’s a functional car. It’s meant to go from one point to another.

There’s a perception Ferrari has been slower with respect to electrification than some competitors.

That’s not true. I just think a company like us can’t impose any choice on clients, and that’s why we’ll keep offering a mix of technology for as long as it’s feasible. That means internal combustion engines, hybrids and fully electric models.

Q: You’re going electric, but the long-awaited Purosangue unveiled just a few months ago will only be powered by combustion engines. What was behind this decision?

That shows there’s still room for a mix of technology.

We’ve filled the order book four times faster than our original plan. Still, I can reiterate that Purosangue’s contribution to our deliveries won’t exceed 20% during the model’s life cycle.

Q: Can you tell us more about the Purosangue order book?

The only thing I can tell you is that we are in line with other models, so we have orders placed for delivery going well into 2024.

Q: What are your views on electrification?

Some regulators at a certain point decided that the community should go into electric, right or wrong. And it is - this is going to happen.

Electrification is just one piece of the pie, and there’s indeed too much hype about it as well as on software and the debate about the need to consolidate the supply chain.

Most people are looking too much at the technology itself, so you have people talking about things such as axial flow, radial flow and power density, when the most important thing is the client’s perception.

Q: What do you mean?

Electrifying cars is relatively easy from technological point of view. The real point is how to extract the best emotion for the use of this technology you want to provide to the driver.

Technology is just a tool, and I think there’s too much money poured into this, and this is because there’s a lack of deep knowledge.

Q: What is the biggest threat you see for Ferrari?

I can’t see any specific threat for Ferrari. There is a threat for the luxury industry overall, which is how will new generations react to luxury goods?

That’s why I’m putting a lot of attention on sustainability, a true sustainability action plan. When I say that we want to be carbon neutral by the end of 2030, I mean that by end of 2030, I want to sharply cut emissions.

Q: What would you like your legacy to be?

What I’d like to leave is a company where there is more empowerment at all levels, that’s more unified. I want decisions to be taken at all levels. There’s this trend in Latin culture companies to wait for the boss to tell the people what they have to do. Do it, full stop.

Q: How do you measure success?

It’s all about how quickly you understand the environment around you and how quickly you adapt and make decisions, partially with the brain and partially with the gut. If you believe you need to wait to have the whole range of elements to make the final decision, well, it’s too late.


Triumph Rocket 3 GT: The mightiest of them all

                THE Triumph Rocket 3 is a beefy roadster equipped with the world’s largest production motorcycle engine capacity of 2.5-litre.

The muscle machine comes in two variants of 3 R and 3 GT.

The Rocket 3 GT’s ergonomics is much more relaxed with laid-back cruiser attitude with easy to reach handlebars and backrest making this bike ideal for a long touring session.

Meanwhile the Rocket 3 R offers mid-foot controls with two vertical position settings that can be adjusted to meet the riders need with an upright sitting position.

My test unit was Rocket 3 GT.

Its engine comes with three hydroformed and hand-welded exhaust headers.

Masterfully crafted with excellent details, the exhaust headers are hand-welded due to the complexity of the shape.

The 3 GT's iconic twin headlight fits well into the whole design.

Other features on this bike that further enhance the look of the Rocket 3 are sculpted fuel tank with Triumph’s signature design, brushed stainless steel tank strap and aluminium Monza-style cap, brushed aluminium air-box cover, brushed aluminium Monza-style coolant and oil caps, machined fins on the crankcases, brushed exhaust heat shields and end caps, and hidden folding pillion footrests with unique foldaway design.

The pillion pegs fold away neatly that you don’t even know they are there.

The Rocket 3 GT offers a full colour TFT screen, which has two dynamic information layout design themes that can be tailored, including a feature that allows the rider to personalise the start-up screen message with their name.

The instrument angle is adjustable for optimum visibility, and the onscreen information is easily controlled via the all-new illuminated switch cubes and 5-way joystick.

The TFT multi-functional instrument is packed with useful information like digital speedometer, trip computer, digital tachometer, gear position indicator, fuel gauge, service indicator, ambient temperature, clock and rider modes.

The bike is also equipped with My Triumph app which supports smartphone calls, music, navigation and GoPro.

This mighty roadster weighs at 294kg comes with four riding modes - Road, Rain, Sport, and a Rider.

Each of the riding modes offers different throttle response and traction control.

Other rider aides available include Hill Hold Control, Cruise control, keyless ignition, and push-button steering lock.

I rode the bike with a 18-litre fuel tank to Teluk Intan via the Plus Highway and the back roads of Bidor and returned to KL via the new highway from Teluk Intan onto Kuala Selangor and Kuala Lumpur.

After a good 40 minutes of riding on the backroads of Bidor, the Rocket 3 GT was definitely a perfect bike for this type of cruising.

The Rocket 3 GT’s handle was wide and allowed a natural reach.

The ergonomic was spot on. I did not feel any aches on my shoulders, back, or my legs.

There was ample space on the saddle for me to move and enough leg room too.

This beast can hold a straight line in any circumstance, be it corners and twisties.

It is simply amazing, that a bike of this size is agile and fast.

Very little effort is needed to challenge any corners. I did not have to push the bike hard to take the corners. Taking corners was effortless even at high speed.

This 2.5-litre motorcycle with huge tyres will impress anybody with its handling in the corners, where the front tyre is 150mm and the rear is whopping 220mm.

The Rocket 3 GT comes with the Avon Cobra Chrome tyres, exclusively developed for it.

While riding on the highway, the backroads, and a few encounters with traffic jams, I realised that bike felt half its weight.

The weight distribution on this bike is simply spot on and feeling like a mid-sized bike.

For a light person like me, this is good news.

The suspension of the bike is applaudable.

The front is the adjustable upside down (USD) Showa forks which is firm under hard braking and rebounds gently.

Meanwhile the rear suspension is an adjustable Showa monoshock that soaks up all the imperfection on the roads thus giving me a comfortable ride.

On the highway, every time I upshift, I can feel the torque from the bike's engine.

Overtaking vehicles with this machine is easy with the torque delivery coming in smooth and strong.

You will never be left behind on the highways unless you want to.

The potent combination of the abundant horsepower and faultless torque delivery equals impeccable acceleration which makes this bike a treat to any speed aficionado.

The Rocket 3 GT offers the world’s highest torque of any production motorcycle offering 221Nm of torque at 4,000rpm, and 165hp at 6,000rpm.

Now with so much power, this bike has Brembo as a reliable partner.

The front wheel is fitted with a pair of Brembo M4.30 four-piston radial-mounted Stylema front calipers biting the 320mm discs.

Meanwhile, the rear is fitted with a Brembo M4.32 4-piston monoblock caliper with a 300mm disc.

Both brakes are equipped with Cornering ABS.

I did manage to do a few sudden stops to test the brakes and there is no reason not to feel safe with the brakes.

Truth be told, I did ride beyond the approved speed limit as I could not resist holding back the "tonnes" of power in my palm.

I twisted the throttle hard and believe you me, the bike was cruising at a speed where any sane person will go speechless.

One of my riding mates who was on his touring bike, was impressed with the Rocket 3 GT's speed.

He was trying hard to keep up with me on straight roads and corners.

When we finally stopped, he had only one thing to say - "Unbelievable”.

The gears and clutch on this machine were smooth and light despite the size of the engine.

I was expecting a heavy clunky sound when I engage my gears but instead, every gear change be it upshift, or downshift was quiet.

Meanwhile, the clutch pull was feather-light and I only used three fingers most of the time.

The only time I used all the fingers was when I was feeling frisky and wanting to push the bike beyond the legal speed limit.

Priced at RM139,900 (without insurance, road tax and registration), the Rocket 3 GT is definitely a head turner.

Besides being an eye candy, what is there not to like this machine.

You must test ride the bike to experience the pure joy of a 2.5-litre machine which is so easy to manage.

Bikes designed with the punch and thrills of the Rocket 3 GT don’t come by often but Triumph has nailed it.

SPECIFICATIONS

Triumph Rocket 3 GT

Engine: 2,458cc, DOHC, water-cooled inline 3-cylinder
Maximum power: 165hp at 6,000rpm
Maximum torque: 221Nm at 4,000rpm
Transmission: Six-speed
Front suspension: 47mm Showa USD fork adjustable for compression and rebound damping; 120mm travel
Rear suspension: Piggyback Showa monoshock adjustable for spring preload, compression and rebound damping; 107mm travel
Front brake: Brembo M4.30 Stylema 4-piston radial monoblock calipers, dual 320mm discs with Cornering ABS
Rear brake: Brembo M4.32 4-piston monoblock caliper, single 300mm disc with Cornering ABS
Fuel capacity: 18 litres
Dry weight: 294kg
Price: RM139,900 (without insurance, road tax and registration)


Volkswagen Group tests autonomous parking in Hamburg

                WOLFSBURG (Germany): The Volkswagen Group is currently testing its autonomous parking system at Hamburg Airport where Volkswagen, Audi and Porsche vehicles can navigate their way to a parking spot based on a multi-storey car park map.

The vehicle's orientation is provided by simple pictorial markers installed in the multi-storey car park and can also be used in essentially any selected car parks from 2028 onward.

“Autonomous parking can make an important contribution to creating convenient, stress-free mobility for our customers. We therefore want to democratise the technology and make it accessible to as many people as possible,” said Volkswagen Group chief digital officer Johann Jungwirth.

The autonomous parking function being publicly demonstrated for the first time in Hamburg has already left the research lab and is currently at an advanced stage of development.

In the first stage it will be possible to use autonomous parking in selected multi-storey car parks in an exclusive traffic flow - meaning it won't be accessible to people.

Before going into operation, the system is being extensively tested with thousands of parking simulations performed and analysed with regards to procedures in different places around the world.

The next stage will be operation in mixed traffic, i.e. vehicles parking and moving autonomously in the same areas of the car park as cars with drivers. And the vision is clear: to have vehicles parking autonomously in all car parks, including public ones, such as outside supermarkets.

There are good reasons for gradually introducing autonomous driving functions: "What we offer our customers works absolutely reliably and safely. This is what today's technology for vehicles from the Volkswagen Group stands for, and we will continue to keep this promise – also in the era of autonomous driving," said Johann Jungwirth.

The vehicles with the autonomous parking function will all be equipped with an active surroundings recognition system enabling it to recognise objects and react accordingly by going around them, braking or completely stopping.

Vehicles are equipped for this with a sensor set, such as ultrasound, radar and cameras and the data is processed in a central control unit within the car.

In the multi-storey car park, the car uses map data to drive on its own accord to a vacant parking spot via simple pictorial markers.

The test is a joint undertaking of Volkswagen Group's three brands, the Free and Hanseatic City of Hamburg and Hamburg Airport.


Porsche expands 911 GTS line-up

                ATLANTA: Porsche is expanding the 911 model line with five new GTS models: the 911 Carrera GTS with rear-wheel drive, the 911 Carrera 4 GTS with all-wheel drive — both  available as a Coupé and Cabriolet — and the 911 Targa 4 GTS with all-wheel drive.

The 3.0-liter flat-six cylinder with larger turbochargers delivers 450hp, which is 30hp more than the current 911 Carrera S and 20 horsepower above the previous, naturally-aspirated GTS model. All GTS variants are equipped as standard with a seven-speed manual transmission.

The seven-speed Porsche Doppelkupplung (PDK) dual-clutch transmission is available as an option.

A totak of 549Nm torque further improves acceleration and responsiveness. Maximum torque is available between 2150 and 5000 rpm. Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) is included as standard on all GTS models.

The GTS models distinguish themselves within the 911 model line not only in terms of technology, but also in their design: All GTS variants are based on the Carrera 4/4S body, which measures 72.9 inches (1852 mm), even on the rear-wheel-drive models.

The new Sport Design front end with a spoiler lip painted in black emphasizes the high-performance character. Combined with an increased rear spoiler extension height, it reduces lift on the front and rear axle compared to the Carrera S models.

Tinted tail lights, rear lid grill strips with a satin black finish and tailpipes in high-gloss black, which are part of the standard Sport Exhaust system, give the GTS a particularly striking appearance.

The GTS offers a unique interior. The stopwatch of the standard Sport Chrono Package is integrated as a central component of the dashboard. The included Porsche Track Precision App has been further enhanced for the market launch of the GTS models. Its features include automatic recording as well as a detailed display and analysis of driving data for smartphones.

Standard Sport Seats Plus with GTS logos on the headrests provide increased lateral support and comfort. They are fitted with a combination of leather and Alcantara that is highlighted with a new seat stitching.

Alcantara can also be found on the standard GT Sport steering wheel, the gear lever and the armrest. The brushed aluminum interior trim is anodized with a black finish.


US fast food chain Chipotle to expand drive-thrus

                LOS ANGELES: US fast food chain Chipotle on Wednesday announced it planned to expand its drive-thru lanes and hire as many as 10,000 new employees.

Chipotle, known for its tacos and burritos, first introduced drive-thru lanes in 2018, and has so far opened 100 as the method of ordering becomes both increasingly popular and necessary due to the coronavirus pandemic.

In a statement, the company said it plans to include the lanes, known as Chipotlanes, in 60 percent of its new restaurants and hire up to 10,000 employees to staff them.

"Customers want convenience and appreciate the ability to personally retrieve their orders without leaving their car," said Chipotle's chief restaurant officer Scott Boatwright.

"With a dedicated team and kitchen devoted to digital orders, we need to continue to grow our workforce to support the increasing demand, especially in locations featuring a Chipotlane."

The company said it saw digital sales grow 80 percent in the first quarter despite business lockdowns to stop the transmission of coronavirus.

Drive-thru service is well-established at fast food restaurants.

At McDonald's, 75 percent of its restaurants offer such an option, which along with deliveries helped the chain through the early months of the pandemic, CEO Chris Kempczinski said at a conference in June.


First drive: We take new Toyota Vios to Desaru and back

                The new Toyota Vios, one of the country’s most popular sedans since its introduction over 15 years ago, is now packed with convenience and safety features that were never before available much less at the price points from RM77,200 to RM87,300.

Features that come standard across the board are keyless entry, push-button start, Eco and Sport modes, automatic air-conditioning, illuminated door sill scuff plates, front footwell illumination, two rear USB ports, rear parking sensors, seven airbags, ABS (anti-lock braking system) with EBD (electronic brakeforce distribution), brake assist, vehicle stability control, traction control, hill-start assist control and rear ISOFIX child seat anchors.

It should also be noted that the heavily-revised third generation Vios is the first model to roll out of UMW Toyota Motor’s new manufacturing facility at Kawasan Perindustrian Bukit Raja, Klang, Selangor.

Despite being a popular car among Malaysians, the one notable gripe about the Vios over the years has been its conventional exterior design.

Well, that’s not the case anymore.

The new Vios has a more exciting front fascia with its narrow and long headlights, split grille, sharp edges and a host of design elements such as the vents, fog lamp housing and the distinctly placed Toyota badge give it that predatory look which is more commonly associated with the Toyota Harrier sports utility vehicle.

This is evident also with the rear tail light that has a “hawk eye” housing.

The hood is creased for a muscular effect and another interesting crease on the sides which starts from just behind the B-pillar and slants down to the front wheel arch which makes one think of a wing and suits its overall design language.

The new Vios is offered in three variants - J, E and G - and all are powered by the 2NR-FE 1.5 litre Dual VVT-i four-cylinder engine which produces 107PS at 6,000rpm and 140Nm of torque at 4,200rpm mated to the continuously variable transmission (CVT) with 7-speed Sport Sequential Shiftmatic mode.

Just a week before the official launch of the Vios, members of the media were invited to take part in a drive from Shah Alam to Desaru, Johor on the top-specced G variant which comes with added bells and whistles such as paddle shifters, projector headlights, 16-inch wheels, leather seats and front armrest, auto-dimming rear-view mirror, Optitron instrument cluster with a 4.2-inch multi-information display (MID), front parking sensors, 360-degree camera system, front digital video recorder, blind spot monitor and rear cross traffic alert.

As soon as I got behind the wheel, one is immediately greeted by the new dashboard layout with its hooded and curved surfaces housing the instrument cluster, the 6.8inch touch screen infotainment unit and automatic climate control buttons.

The G-variant features a leather steering wheel and gearknob so there is a feeling of quality in looks and feel.
As we hit the road, I noticed how quiet the engine was and the smooth acceleration it provided.

The CVT gearbox still drones when you step on the accelerator but the exhaust note seemed refined without it being too grindy and intrusive.

The car handles very well on highways and city roads but it’s the old roads where its limits can be tested. The Vios proved to be a bit floaty on the bends and turns but we were also driving spiritedly and honestly, it was expected.

However, there was still enough grip from the car and it did not hamper one’s confidence if we took a corner a bit too fast.

The level of comfort, however, took us by surprise.

Driving all the way south to Desaru is a long journey and throughout the drive, the well-insulated cabin cancelled the noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) levels to a very low point.

Coupled with comfortable seats and effective air-conditioning as well as adequate rear legroom and headroom, one didn’t feel as lethargic sitting for as long as we did. Of course we did stop to stretch our legs and have lunch.

Another cool thing was the blind spot monitor which lights up the side mirrors whenever there are vehicles approaching the sides.

We also had a demonstration of the 360-degree camera system which is really useful when you’re not sure of your surroundings and can turn it on to have a better gauge of the environment.

The new Vios easily breaks new ground in terms of value and features for B-Segment cars.

It goes to show that nowadays, an affordable car does not have to sacrifice on safety, comfort and even looks to provide a well-rounded package for the masses.

SPECIFICATIONSToyota ViosEngine: 1,496cc, 2NR-FE,
4-cylinder, in-line, 16-valve, DOHC with Dual VVT-i
Maximum power: 107PS at 6,000rpm
Maximum torque: 140Nm at 4,200rpm
Transmission: Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) with 7-speed Sport Sequential Shiftmatic mode
Standard features: Keyless entry, push-button start,
Eco and Sport modes, LED daytime running lights (DRL), automatic air-conditioning, illuminated door sill scuff plates, front footwell illumination, two rear USB ports, rear parking sensors, seven airbags, ABS (anti-lock braking system) with EBD (electronic brakeforce distribution), brake assist, vehicle stability control, traction control, hill-start assist control and rear ISOFIX child seat anchorsJ variant features: Multi-Reflector halogen headlamps, bulb rear combination lamps, fabric seats, 15inch wheels, CD Player with Tuner, MP3, AUX-Jack, USB & Bluetooth, rear parking sensor
Price: RM77,200 (on-the-road without insurance)
E variant features:
J variant features plus LED tail lights, fog lights, auto-fold door mirrors with indicators, 60:40 split-folding rear seats, multifunction steering wheel, DVD Player with 6.8-inch touchscreen, USB Mirroring, Tuner, HDMI, MP3, Voice Dial, AUX-Jack, Bluetooth and Reverse Camera with a 360-degree camera system, Blind Spot Monitor (BSM)
with Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA), acoustic windshield, vibration control front side
glass and front digital video recorder
Price: RM81,200 (on-the-road without insurance)
G variant features:
E variant features plus projector halogen headlights, 16-inch wheels, leather seats, steering wheel, gearknob and armrest, auto-dimming rear-view mirror, paddle shifters, Optitron instrument cluster with a 4.2-inch MID display, six speakers and front parking sensors
Price: RM87,300 (on-the-road without insurance)


Stellantis to buy software developer aiMotive in autonomous driving push

                MILAN: Stellantis said today it had agreed to buy aiMotive, a Hungary-based developer of advanced artificial intelligence and autonomous driving software, to advance its technology development efforts.

No financial details of the transaction were disclosed.

The acquisition enhances Stellantis' artificial intelligence and autonomous driving core technology, expands its global talent pool, and boosts the mid-term development of its all-new STLA AutoDrive platform, the company added in a statement.

The deal also supports Stellantis' ambition to generate around €20 billion (RM94bil) in additional annual revenues by 2030 from software-enabled product offerings and subscriptions.


BMW and Valeo working on Level 4 automated parking

                MUNICH/PARIS: BMW and Valeo are teaming up to co-develop next-generation Level 4 automated parking experience.

In January both companies signed an agreement for a strategic cooperation, which will focus on joint development of next-generation high-end parking user experience for customers on private grounds and parking facilities.

Ranging from Automated Maneuver Assistance to Level 4 Automated Valet Parking, all functions will be based on technology and sensors in the car. Infrastructure based services will also be jointly developed to experience fully automated parking and charging in enabled public parking facilities and sites.

The software functions are based on the current automated parking software stack first launched with the BMW iX in 2021. In the next generation it will be further extended by a powerful computing platform hosting the jointly developed algorithms.

Automated Valet Parking (AVP) offers drivers and passengers a fully automated and driverless parking experience.

At a drop-off zone the driver leaves the car and the vehicle takes over tasks such as autonomously finding a parking spot, the necessary maneuvers for parking in and out and can also drive back to a pick-up zone to return the vehicle back to the driver.

To optimise use of the parking time, additional services like fully automated charging or fully automated washing can be deployed. Such functionalities offer real customers benefits in terms of comfort and safety.


Jaguar inches closer to electric car goal with plug-in E-Pace SUV

                LONDON: Jaguar wants to make nothing but electric cars by 2025, and with its latest update to the E-Pace, the British manufacturer is now a small step closer to this goal.

For the first time this small SUV is being offered as a plug-in hybrid, allowing it to drive purely electrically on short distances.

The plug-in is based on a three-cylinder petrol engine with an electric motor on the rear axle. It is fed by a battery that is supposed to supply enough electricity for up to 55 kilometres of pure electric driving, Jaguar says.

The system power is 309hp and the standard consumption is 2.0 litres (43 g/km CO2). Apart from the purely electric I-Pace, this makes the E-Pace the most frugal Jaguar to date.

There's also a cheaper three-cylinder engine with 160hp available as a mild hybrid, albeit with a bigger environmental footprint and standard values from 6.8 litres (at least 154 g/km).

Jaguar's range also includes the 2.0 litre diesel with 163hp in the entry-level model or 204hp in the more powerful variants as well as the petrol engine (also 2.0 litres) offered with either 200 or 249hp.

In addition to the new engines, Jaguar has also installed a new infotainment system and touched up the design at the front and rear.

However, the designers have refrained from making any radical changes. Because if they are serious about switching to pure electrics, the E-Pace will be finished by 2025 at the latest.


Mitsubishi Triton VGT Athlete launched: RM126,990

                PETALING JAYA: The new Mitsubishi Triton VGT Athlete 4x4 pick-up truck variant has been launched, priced at RM126,990 (same price with the Triton VGT Adventure X).

Only available in Black Mica, the Triton Athlete is spotted with new front bumper garnish, new black grille with honeycomb mesh, new black 17-inch alloy wheels, new sports bar and dark grey and orange decal.

Other highlights in black include the side step, door mirror, door handle, rear bumper and new tailgate spoiler.

The Triton Athlete also houses a new Infotainment system with Apple Car Play, and has a black monotone interior with perforated orange leather combination and ‘ATHLETE’ embroidery which matches the orange stitching found on the leather steering, leather gear knob, door trim and centre console.

Other Triton variants are:

- VGT AT Premium (RM116,300)
- VGT AT GL (RM103,800)
- VGT MT (RM107,600)
- MT (RM93,920)
- Quest (RM77,390)

Prices are on-the-road without insurance, GST inclusive.

All Triton variants (except Quest) get a five-year or 200,000km (whichever is first) warranty.

The Quest gets a five-year or 100,000km (whichever is first) warranty.

The Triton Athlete is powered by the award-winning 2.4-litre MIVEC turbodiesel engine with Variable Valve Timing technology.

Coupled with Variable Geometry Turbo (VGT), it produces a strong 181 PS of power and 430 Nm of torque.

All Triton models are imported as a Completely Built-Up (CBU) vehicle from Mitsubishi Motors global production hub in Thailand.

The Triton Athlete is equipped with seven SRS airbags, Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA), Active Stability with Traction Control, Hill-Start Assist (HSA), Trailer Stability Assists (TSA) and Brake Override System.

The safety of the Triton is further strengthened by a strong Mitsubishi Reinforced Impact Safety Evolution (RISE) body construction.

The Triton has picked up three awards last year namely- DSF.my and Allianz- Vehicle of the Year, Carsifu’s Editors Choice Awards 2017- Best Pick Up Truck of the Year and Diesel Engine of the Year.

MMM will be having a Mitsubishi Ultimate Drive Event nationwide featuring Mitsubishi Motors Brand Ambassador and Malaysia Motorsports Athlete, Leona Chin at the following locations:

Visitors to the roadshow can expect lots of exciting activities such as car simulator challenge where the finalist will get to race with Leona Chin!

Test-drive any Mitsubishi model during the event day and stand to win RM888 cash prizes or Ralliart merchandise.


Puspakom's trailer service able to inspect 60,000 vehicles

                JOHOR BARU:  Puspakom hopes to inspect at least 60,000 vehicles using its mobile trucks, known as Premier Mobile Inspection Service this year.

Puspakom operations-premier services division head Mohd Zuha Mohd Yusof said that the service has been growing steadily since 2013.

He added that Puspakom now has six trailers which were deployed nationwide to carry out inspections.

Each trailer, from France, is valued at RM2.4mil.

"The mobile services offered are similar to the ones offered at our Puspakom centres. The difference is that we go to our customers especially those with a lot of commercial vehicles," he said, adding that presently the service was popular in the Klang Valley, Johor and Penang.

He was speaking to reporters during a media briefing at the Puspakom centre in Tanjung Langsat.


Beat the 'clockers' or how to spot a car with falsified mileage

                BERLIN: A second-hand car with low mileage is automatically worth more and there is the rub.

As many as a third of second-hand cars on sale have had the mileage manipulated or "clocked" by an unscrupulous seller in order to push up the asking price, warns Germany's huge ADAC motoring club.

The dismayed buyer of a manipulated car may find out later that the vehicle is worth only a fraction of the price paid. In brazen cases an illegally-clocked car may be valued at next to nothing.

Germany's Handelsblatt newspaper quoted police who uncovered the case of a Mercedes-Benz E-Class saloon which was offered for sale with only 88,000km on the odometer.

It turned out that tamperers had reduced the mileage from a genuine 687,000km, meaning that although the car carried a price ticket of €17,000 (RM82,000) it was actually worth little more than scrap value.

Odometer tampering goes on all over the world and older car models are more prone to manipulation than modern, electronic-packed vehicles which sometimes have anti-tamper safeguards.

READ MORE: Bosch developing technology to end mileage manipulation

In most countries it is not actually illegal to alter the mileage setting of a second-hand car, but the seller is breaking the law if he does not tell the buyer that the mileage displayed is inaccurate.

To beat the "clockers" a buyer should examine a car carefully for signs of heavy wear and tear. A saggy or worn driver’s seat indicates high miles, along with worn pedals, switches and steering wheels. Lots of stone chips on the bonnet point to much motorway driving.

A car that has been clocked might have a sloppy gearbox, worn-out brakes and clutch and tired suspension. During a test drive, listen carefully for clonks from the engine, springs and other components. They will give away the truth about a car's mileage.

If a service book is supplied with the vehicle, check that the entries are correct and that there are no big gaps during which the mileage suspiciously does not go up.

If you are unsure about the dealer's stamps you could contact the workshop to see if the work was carried out as claimed. Genuine bills will always show the date on which the work was completed.

Finally, a glance under the bonnet will reveal tags from recent and maybe older oil changes. Simply walk away if the mileage figure on these does not tally with what the seller is claiming for the car. This will certainly save heartache and expense further down the line.


Lexus introduces Inspiration Series sedan

                PLANO (Texas): The 2020 Lexus LS 500 Inspiration Series exemplifies the power of colour with a new, limited production exterior and interior combination that gives the flagship sedan an unmistakable visual presence.

The fourth Inspiration Series vehicle from Lexus, the LS 500 is the first sedan to get this exclusive treatment. It starts with a unique new exterior colour , Deep Garnet.  Garnet, a deep, metallic shade of red that shimmers in direct sun yet has a deep, lustrous tone in the shade.

The vibrant colour is complimented by standard 20-inch wheels finished in Black Vapor Chrome. Like the Deep Garnet paint, these wheels glimmer in the sun yet retain a polished, subdued look in the shade that accentuates the LS 500’s elegant proportions.

Look inside the Inspiration Series and you’re greeted with an interior that exudes glamour from every inch of the cabin. It starts with the standard White leather trim used on the seats, center console and door panels.

The semi-analine leather uses a dyeing process that gives it a bright white colour that stands in stark contrast to the black dashboard, steering wheel and carpet.

It’s a dramatic look that is further accentuated by the standard Kiriko glass trim on the door panels. Previously only available with the Executive Package, Kiriko glass is one of the LS’s most striking interior design flourishes.

The intricate design of each Kiriko panel reflects both the smooth white door trim and the dark Mark Levinson speaker grills, making the glass the perfect bridge between light and dark. Additional Inspiration Series touches include blue LED dash lighting and “Lexus” puddle lamps that welcome you at each door.

Like all 2020 LS 500s, the Inspiration Series is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine with twin turbochargers that develop 416hp and 442lb-ft of torque.

Limited to just 300 units in the US, the 2020 LS 500 Inspiration Edition goes on sale this fall.


Honda Malaysia's 3XTRAORDINARY savings campaign

                PETALING JAYA: Honda Malaysia is running a 3XTRAORDINARY Savings campaign where car buyers can enjoy Low Interest Rate or Cash Option, Year-End Bonus and Extra Cash Rebate which starts from 1 December 2018 until 31 December 2018.

The rebates ranging from RM2,500 to RM50,000 are available for various Honda models, namely Jazz, BR-V, City, Civic, CR-V, Accord, Odyssey and Civic Type R.

To enjoy the great rebates, the vehicle must be registered between 1 December 2018 and 31 December 2018 and purchased from any of the 97 authorised Honda dealers nationwide.

Honda Malaysia is also rewarding existing Honda Insurance Plus (HIP) customers with a gift when they renew their HIP insurance at a Honda Authorised Dealer during this campaign period.

Honda Malaysia has maintained its position as the No.1 in Non-National Segment and No.2 in overall Total Industry Volume (TIV) thus far since January, thanks to its stellar sales performance.

Among the best-selling Honda models, the City tops the chart with more than 30,200 units sold and contributed 32% to Honda Malaysia’s total sales from January to November 2018.

With this outstanding performance, City sealed its popularity by leading the B-segment sedan as of November 2018.

The Civic and CR-V were also highly popular with Malaysians, contributing 16% and 13% respectively to the company’s total sales units as of November 2018.

At the beginning of the year, Honda Malaysia launched the Odyssey with Honda SENSING, completing the line-up of SUV, sedan and MPV equipped with this Next Generation Advanced Safety Technology.

Now available in the CR-V, Accord and Odyssey; the Honda SENSING underlines Honda’s continuous efforts to introduce advanced technologies that make mobility better.


Tesla delivers Model X electric SUV to take on luxury carmakers

                FREMONT: Tesla Motors delivered the first of its long-awaited Model X electric sports-utility vehicles on Tuesday, a product investors are counting on to make the pioneering company profitable after years of losses.

The launch of the Model X represents a milestone for the loss-making Silicon Valley automaker during a period of high spending and modest growth, because it can now boast a second model in production beyond its Model S sedan, launched in 2012.

"I think we got a little carried away with the X," Chief Executive Officer Elon Musk told reporters ahead of a launch event near the company's Fremont factory, where luxury Model Xs have been moving down the production line in recent weeks, nearly two years behind the company's original schedule.

Musk estimated that 25,000 customers had pre-ordered the crossover online or in its stores and that it would take 8-12 months for those ordering from now to receive the SUV.

In retrospect, the company may have done less, Musk said.

"There is far more there than is really necessary to sell a car. And some of the things are so difficult, they make the car better but the difficulty of engineering those parts is so high."

Between 4,000-6,000 guests filled a cavernous space for the launch. Invited to the event were Model X reservation holders, Tesla employees and Model S and Roadster owners. The Roadster sportscar, which is no longer in production, was the company's first vehicle.

Musk has said the all-wheel drive Model X - with two electric motors, the ability to travel about 250 miles (about 400 km) on a single charge and seating for seven people - was "the hardest car to build in the world".

Priced as high as US$144,000, it features so-called "falcon-wing" doors that open upward rather than to the side - controlled by sensors that can modulate the height to clear garage ceilings - seats that can be adjusted separately and a panoramic windshield that extends overhead.

Musk said the biggest challenges were making the doors open in a graceful "balletic" manner, the expansive windshield - which he said was the largest piece of glass ever used in a car - plus its sun visor and the moveable seats, which he said were deceptively tricky.

"One of the hardest things to design is a good seat," he said.

Although global adoption of electric vehicles has been slow, Tesla has been the U.S. pioneer in luxury electric cars charged by batteries. It is betting that high-performance and stylish offerings will boost acceptance amid a sea of alternatives, such as hybrids or electric vehicles powered by hydrogen.

Tesla predicted its SUV would receive 5-star safety ratings in all categories, based on data from its crash tests, due to its low center of gravity, which helps reduce rollovers.

The Model X, like the Model S, will be continuously improved, Tesla said, due to software transmitted "over the air". A highly anticipated update expected within the next month will allow for an auto-pilot function, in which cars can be driven hands-free on freeways.

The buzz surrounding Tesla's Model S sedan - whose P85D variant won a top score of 100 from Consumer Reports magazine in August - has managed to preempt high-end German rivals such as Volkswagen's Audi and Porsche, BMW and Daimler's Mercedes-Benz.

At the Frankfurt Auto Show earlier this month, Audi unveiled its e-tron quattro sport-utility vehicle, and Porsche showed off its first battery-powered sports car, although neither will be available before 2018.

But spending on the Model X, a new Nevada battery factory and the lower-cost Model 3 due by late 2017, have all increased capital expenses, which totaLled US$831.2 million in the first half of the year.

The Model X, he said, "gives us a cashflow stream we can use to develop and facilitate" Tesla's three vehicles either in production or development.

Six new cars were delivered on Tuesday to a group made up of Tesla board members, investors and friends of Musk who had pre-ordered.

In August, Musk said Tesla would make between 50,000-55,000 Model S and Model X vehicles this year, with the capacity for 1,600-1,800 vehicles per week on its production line next year.

Tuesday's unveiling showcased the top-of-the-line "Signature" Model X, priced between $132,000 and US$144,000, with optional add-ons such as acceleration upgrades, packages for subzero weather package or towing.

The company has not disclosed pricing for the base model, but Musk said that in the future, there would be a "lower-cost" Model X.

Watch the Model X launch (external site)


Fiat Chrysler picks Google, Samsung for global connected car system

                DETROIT: Fiat Chrysler said today it will use technology from Alphabet Inc’s Google and Samsung to connect all its vehicles by 2022, providing music and video and facilitating future car-sharing and self-driving capabilities.

Fiat Chrysler Automobiles NV (FCA) will use Google’s Android operating system globally instead of a mixture of software that varies by region, a spokesman said. The automaker will also use a cloud-based digital platform from Samsung Electronics Co Ltd’s Harman unit.

Unlike its rivals General Motors Co and Ford Motor Co, FCA has spent virtually nothing on developing self-driving vehicle technology. This saves the company large amounts of money, but makes it reliant on outside parties to provide technology and systems.

FCA said it will launch the new capabilities in the second half of 2019. The company said the system will aid owners “by predicting maintenance needs, locating fuel and charging stations, receiving traffic prompts and restaurant offers and providing live customer-care assistance at the push of the button.”


Nissan panel to recommend outside director to chair board: Nikkei

The issue of Nissan’s chairmanship is crucial after the Japanese firm identified the concentration of power in one executive as one of the reasons Ghosn was able to carry out his alleged fiscal misconduct. — Reuters
TOKYO: A Nissan Motor governance committee will recommend the appointment of an external director as board chairman, a role distinct from company chairman, in a move to decentralise power at the top level, the Nikkei business daily reported today.

Under Nissan’s current corporate charter, the position of board chair is automatically appointed to head the company board, the Nikkei said citing a source. Former chairman Carlos Ghosn had filled both roles prior to his arrest in November for under-reporting his salary for eight years.

The issue of Nissan’s chairmanship is now particularly important after the Japanese firm identified the concentration of power in one executive as one of the reasons Ghosn was able to carry out his alleged fiscal misconduct.

Speculation has swirled about whether the newly appointed chairman of France’s Renault, Jean-Dominique Senard, would assume the chairmanship of the Japanese automaker.

The Nikkei report comes after the governance committee said in a statement that the separation between operation and oversight was among topics discussed on Friday at the committee’s third meeting since it was formed in December after Ghosn’s arrest.

The panel, comprising three Nissan external board directors and four third-party members, is scheduled to make recommendations to Nissan’s board in March on how to tighten lax governance and approval processes for matters including director compensation and chairman selection.

A spokesman for the committee said it could not comment on potential recommendations before they are submitted to the Nissan board. Nissan did not immediately reply to emailed request for comment.


Toyota and Honda have best supplier relations in US, says study

                DETROIT: For the fifth straight year, Toyota and Honda topped a study of automakers with US plants in supplier relations, helping them get the best parts at the lowest cost.

Toyota was the tops in supplier relations, followed closely by Honda. Ford was a distant third, followed by Nissan. General Motors and Fiat Chrysler Automobiles NV were tied for last place.

Those six are the largest automakers in the US auto sales market and have the largest US auto industry production footprints.

Lagging relations with suppliers means less profit, said the study's author, John Henke, president of Planning Perspectives and a marketing professor at Oakland University near Detroit.

Toyota and Honda improved their scores by an average of 8.7 percent over the year, the study showed.

If the other four had improved their relations by as much they collectively would have added US$2 billion in 2014 operating profit, Henke said.

GM would have earned another US$750 million last year had its supplier relations improved 8.7 percent, the study found.

Suppliers have become more discerning about which companies they serve, said Henke, who has produced a study of relations of automakers and their Tier 1 suppliers for 15 years. A supplier will show its best new technology to the automaker that treats them best, he said.

Gone are the days when parts suppliers would build plants in order to take as much automaker business as they could get.

Suppliers "are not willing to put in the infrastructure to support all the business they could possibly get today because they don't know what's going to happen tomorrow," said Henke.

The 2008-2009 recession "spooked" suppliers away from investing for work that has not been contracted yet, and the best of them became highly efficient, Henke said.


Petronas Dagangan Bhd and customers donate RM50K to charity

                KUALA LUMPUR: In the spirit of giving and sharing during the holy month of Ramadan, Petronas Dagangan Bhd (PDB) contributed RM50,000 to five charitable organisations namely Rumah Kasih Harmoni, Rumah Kebajikan Amal Cahaya Tengku Ampuan Rahimah, Rumah Titian Kaseh, Rumah Amal Limpahan Kasih and Persatuan Orang Buta Malaysia.

Part of the donation amount came from customer's contribution through the purchase of Iftar@Mesra pack, which was made available during the Ramadan month.

The Iftar@Mesra pack is an extension of PETRONAS' Mornings@Mesra programme customised especially for the fasting month, containing chocolate bars, dates and a mineral water.

For every purchase of the Iftar@Mesra pack priced at RM5, 50 cents are channeled to the needy.

Speaking about the initiative, PDB's head of retail Business, Aadrin Azly said, "The Iftar@Mesra is a new initiative by us to provide our customers the convenience of grabbing something light especially when they are on the road and unable to make it home in time for buka puasa. At the same time, we are pleased that part of the sales of the Iftar@Mesra pack is channeled to a meaningful cause and we would like to thank all those who have contributed to the programme."

"PDB is also adding on to the amount collected so that each charitable organisations will take home a total of RM10,000 today. It is hoped that this contribution would help relieve some of the financial burden incurred especially for the upcoming Hari Raya celebration," he added.

The RM50,000 will reach about 450 less fortunate comprising children and senior citizens and will help towards the home's expenses.

About 150 invited guests, including representatives from the homes, were also treated to a sumptuous Iftar following the handover ceremony.

The Iftar@Mesra pack is still available for purchase until 16 June 2018.

For quick and affordable breakfast solutions after Ramadan, customers can opt for the Mornings@Mesra combos, comprising three menus namely, Big Bites, Light Bites and Happy Bites, catering to both heavy and light eaters as well as kids, priced from RM3.


Hitachi unveils automotive batteries

                KUALA LUMPUR: Hitachi’s automotive batteries have arrived in Malaysia and to begin with, they’re offering two variants starting with the entry-level MF ES Series and their range-topping MFX batteries.

The MFX batteries are priced from RM350 onwards, while the ES Series start from RM250 and are being manufactured by a dedicated Hitachi Chemical Group factory in Thailand.

Both batteries are currently available at more than 5,000 dealers nationwide including Sabah and Sarawak.

An agreement was signed with Hitachi Chemical Asia-Pacific (HCAP), making local company Borneo Technical (a member of the Toyota Tsusho Group in Japan) the official distributor of the fully imported batteries.

The batteries are developed entirely with Japanese technology and is said to offer reliability, value and peace of mind thanks to an extended two-year warranty (or 40,000km) for the MFX batteries.

“We are committed to the successful rollout of the Hitachi range of automotive batteries and have in place, plans to ensure sustainability of sales moving forward,” said Borneo Technical president Takuya Hirano.


Honda reveals production version of new Insight hybrid

                NEW YORK: Honda is set to give the final production version of the new Insight hybrid its global debut at the New York International Auto Show opening this week, and has now revealed images of what the car looks like ahead of the official unveiling at the prestigious event.

While it's not unusual for a manufacturer to discontinue a vehicle in its portfolio and then find market conditions have changed to a point where reintroducing it in a new form appears to be the thing to do, what Honda is doing here is unusual.

Not only is it unusual for a manufacturer to make this turnaround in less than four years after first discontinuing the model, but for it to be a hybrid model that was taken out of production at a time when electrification was just starting to take off really does make one scratch your head.

To be fair to Honda, the images of the new production version of the Insight shows a car that's likely to find much more favor with potential buyers due to how it looks than its predecessor could ever have hoped for. Unsurprisingly, the production model looks pretty much identical to the concept version unveiled earlier at the Detroit show.

The new Insight is based on the current Civic platform, and it will be built at Honda's facility in Indiana where the Civic and CR-V are also built. At the moment Honda is insisting that there are no plans to offer the new Insight for sale in Europe, although its hybrid powertrain is likely to make the trip under the hood of a Civic.

That system is made up of a 1.5-litre Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder petrol engine coupled with a generator motor and a propulsion motor. Most of the time the propulsion motor is only used for forward movement, which means the petrol engine turns the generator motor to produce the electricity for the propulsion motor.

However, there are certain circumstances, such as highway driving at speed where a lock-up clutch will then connect the engine to help the drive axles. This is a lot like the "range-extender" system already found in the American Chevrolet Volt, and could be a kind of hybrid system we might be seeing more of in the future.


F1 designer Gordon Murray unveils first supercar under his own name

                NEW YORK: Gordon Murray designed one of the most expensive cars ever made, the McLaren F1, which requires US$20 million (RM84mil) to purchase when one is offered for sale — which is almost never.

After that and 85 other supercars for employers that have ranged from Brabham to Mercedes-Benz, the mustachioed 74-year-old South African expat has unveiled the production version of the first car to bear his name.

The Gordon Murray Automotive T.50 is a US$3 million (RM12.7mil) coupe with a carbon-fibre body and a rear fan as big as a turbine.

Its naturally aspirated 650bhp, 3.9-litre V12 engine will likely be the last non-electric version of its kind to be used in a car of this calibre. Production remains at full speed ahead, regardless of the pandemic, Murray says.

“If the car had already been in production, we would have obviously had a problem,” he says on the phone from one of his homes, this one “out in the sticks” in England.

“But it just so happened [that] when we had lockdown back in April, we were in the middle of just signing off all the drawings for production, which is something that we can easily do from home.”

Supercar fans have had plenty of time to drool over their prospects of getting one since Murray showed an initial ballpoint sketch of the project two years ago.

A show-only shell of a concept was released late last year.

Still, two-thirds of the 100 cars to be made are spoken for, and half of those buyers have paid both the first and second of the three monetary payment installments required. (The last installment will occur when the car is delivered, scheduled for 2022.)

Ostensibly, such buyers come to the rear-mid engine, rear-wheel-drive vehicle for the kind of supernatural driving experience heretofore only experienced by those who either race Grand Prix cars professionally or who own the F1.

Its sheer feather weight sets it apart: At 986kg, the T.50 is half the weight of other supercars.

Murray says that he avoided the “weight-gain spiral” that can result from chasing top speeds and the highest power output.

Instead, he benchmarked the lowest possible weight for every component in the car, down to individual nuts and bolts.

The T.50’s fully carbon fibre monocoque and body panels total less than 150kg; the combined weight of three carbon-fibre seats is a mere 12.7kg.

Murray says he designed the T.50 to be one better than the F1.

“We are in the perfect position of knowing what makes the F1 driving experience so good and what makes it bad, actually, because there are a few things wrong with the F1,” Murray says.

“So this is better in every way because of modern technology and materials. And it’s lighter and the engine is better, so the driving experience is better, and you don’t have the massive insurance bill and the worry that something is going to go wrong.”

Customers are also, no doubt, buying into the myth that has enfolded Murray like a deep ocean fog rolling onto the coastline.

A close friend of the late George Harrison, Murray is a true renaissance man: He paints extensively and designs houses in rural France and Scotland. Named Commander of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (CBE) last year, he collects vintage T-shirts, with at least 1,000 stored in one of his barns in an English country house.

Brazilian superstar Ayrton Senna was driving Murray-designed cars during his dominant, glamorous F1 years. “Gordon is like a god to everybody,” says David Gooding, founder of Gooding & Co. auction house.

The T.50 comes with dihedral doors and seating for three, with the driver’s seat front and centre while the two passengers sit slightly behind it.

Interior components are made from solid aluminium, the accelerator pedal crafted from titanium. There are neither touchscreens nor stalk controls inside, as in the F8 Spider and other Ferraris. Instead, the indicators are operated by thumb-buttons on the steering wheel’s horizontal spokes.

Adequate ground clearance in both front and back helps navigate driveways and sidewalks. Comparatively speaking, there is ample storage space: One space above each passenger’s footrest, another under each passenger’s seat, plus one behind the driver’s headrest.

Set in the left and right rear haunches of the car are vertical-load luggage compartments, each with around 90 litres of capacity, enough to fit a carry-on bag. These considerations are often overlooked in such supercar brands as Pagani and McLaren.

“I’ve designed this car to be used every day,” says Murray in his typically understated English way.

He has personally met each buyer and says they come from all over the world, with the hot spots centred in Japan, Europe, the UK, the US, and the Middle East.

Most, he adds, are under the age of 45—an astoundingly youthful group, considering the fact that the average Rolls-Royce buyer is 50 and the average age of luxury car buyers is several years older.

During the specification process, each customer will have a personalised seat fitting, a steering wheel height-and-reach adjustment, and a fine-tuning of the pedal-box setup.

Porsche specialist Bruce Canepa will service the US-based T.50 cars out of his shop in northern California; Murray has a service network in the UK, Japan, and Abu Dhabi as well.

“Flying technicians” like those used at Lamborghini will also travel to farther-flung T.50 owners to service them with maintenance and repairs at home. Murray will personally hand over each customised car when it is completed.

“The T.50 buyers fit the F1 owner profile,” Murray says. “They’re people who appreciate driving the car and using the car. They all tell me exactly the same thing: ‘When I was a teenager, the poster on the wall was the F1. I started a business; 10 years later, the business was successful. F1s — you can’t really find one anymore, so this is my McLaren F1.’”


Peugeot offers insight on how Focal develops its sound system

                LONDON: The partnership between French carmaker Peugeot and French Hi-Fi solutions manufacturer Focal dating back to 2014.

Since 2014, and more prominently since 2016, with the launch of the new 3008 & 5008 SUV, Peugeot has partnered with the prestigious French brand Focal to design its on-board hi-fi systems.

The two companies share identical brand values, an essential starting point for a perfect collaboration.

Focal is recognised as a world leader in the manufacture of hi-fi solutions and is based in Saint-Étienne (France).

This French company manufactures loudspeakers for the home and multimedia, audio systems for cars, monitoring loudspeakers for recording studios and audiophile headphones.

All Focal products are designed and developed in France with nearly 40 years of innovation in exclusive acoustic technologies and its engineers are involved very early on in a new vehicle project.

To design the Focal premium high-fidelity system, designers, engineers and sound technicians from both brands have combined their expertise by coming up with a tailor-made aesthetic and acoustic integration.

The result must be adapted to the characteristics of each vehicle and take into account the specific features of the chosen audio system.

The interior design of each Peugeot model with a Focal installation has thus enjoyed a specific development linked to the Hi-Fi option.

The work of integrating the loudspeakers goes beyond simple positioning in the passenger compartment of the vehicles.

It is the result of several years of creation and cross-design of strategic parts guaranteeing the final acoustic quality.

Each area of the vehicle is studied which includes dashboard, glazing and doors among others.

Everything relies on design and materials to obtain the best rigidity, eliminate vibrations and optimise the layout of the system.

For each new collaboration, the entire passenger compartment is the subject of a specific development.

A Focal Hi-Fi option is a set of exclusive acoustic improvements that includes heavyweights in the doors, choice of density for the sealing membranes, laminated glazing, simulations and studies of dashboard load volumes, the orientation of the tweeters and opening rate as well as thickness of the protective grilles to name a few.

The Hi-Fi System generally consists of Focal's latest ranges of Sopra or Chora loudspeakers.

Then it’s time to choose the loudspeakers, these unique pieces that FOCAL has been imagining and manufacturing for more than 40 years.

There are proprietary and patented technologies to transpose the sound space and distil all the details and the atmosphere of the musical creations being listened to.

Hours of fine-tuning are then necessary and thousands of kilometres are travelled by acoustic engineers.

This is done in order to get the best out of the installation, thereby ensuring an optimal and unique listening experience.

The quality of the previous steps is essential to electronically adjust the sound scene, creating a comfortable environment and listening quality that belongs only to the car being studied.

With the two tricolour manufacturers having joined forces to create an exceptional listening experience in the car, they are also working together beyond the mere design of a Hi-Fi system tailored to a vehicle.

These two companies are nonetheless committed to all the details upstream and downstream that will simply serve the sound and enable participation in a unique experience.

Therefore, to fully discover and feel the mastery of the FOCAL Premium Hi-Fi System on-board the French carmaker's vehicles, the teams called on French composer Benjamin Shielden to write a musical track: Golden Lion.

This exclusive track showcases the quality of the audio system and listening environment during demonstrations.


Auto suppliers join funding for self-driving laser sensor firms

                SAN FRANCISCO: Two makers of laser-based sensor technology announced new funding rounds, with top automotive suppliers Delphi Automotive, Magna International and Magneti Marelli investing in the competitive technology considered key to self-driving cars.

Israel’s Innoviz Technologies announced a US$65mil (RM272mil)  funding round, joined by Delphi and Magna, and Canada’s LeddarTech said its US$101mil (RM423mil) funding round included Delphi and Magneti Marelli.

Lidar, which relies on light pulses reflected off objects to gauge their position on and near the road, is seen by most automotive experts as one of the crucial elements for full self-driving cars and has become a prime focus.

The investment by the suppliers underscores their need to identify self-driving solutions for global automakers. Such tier-one suppliers serve as systems integrators, responsible for vetting devices and technologies that they integrate into automobiles.

The cost, complexity and accelerated pace of development of self-driving vehicles are fuelling sweeping alliances between automobile manufacturers and suppliers, and suppliers and makers of specific technologies, such as Lidar.

Innoviz’s Series B funding round comes as the firm prepares for the 2019 debut of its automotive grade solid-state Lidar device, InnovizOne, for full and partial self-driving systems.

Delphi and Magna will offer Innoviz’s technology to the automakers it supplies, Oren Rosenzweig, co-founder and chief business officer of Innoviz, told Reuters.

The company also plans to mass produce its Lidar platform for testing and development available in the first quarter of 2018.

LeddarTech’s Series C funding round was led by German lighting company Osram and will be used to accelerate Lidar development with suppliers, the company said.

Over a dozen companies, from early entrant Velodyne to companies like Quanergy Systems and start-up Luminar, are vying to lower the price of Lidar and improve its performance to meet real-world needs beyond its current use in development of self-driving cars.

“When we started out we thought the biggest issue was price,” said Rosenzweig. “We’re working on getting the price down significantly compared to what you have today, but we have to make the performance much higher.”

He estimated that Innoviz’s first Lidar will be priced “in the hundreds” of dollars.

Comparing Lidar companies is difficult due to the variations in technology and the lack of standards in judging performance.

Delphi announced last month that it had acquired a minority stake in Innoviz.


Goodyear rolls out IntelliGrip Urban and Eagle 360 Urban tyres

                AKRON (Ohio): Designed for future-generation autonomous electric ride-sharing vehicles in urban areas, the Goodyear IntelliGrip Urban and Eagle 360 Urban concept tyres are set to meet the rising interest for on-demand-transportation.

The Goodyear IntelliGrip Urban concept tyre is equipped with advanced Sensor-in-Tyre technology, and designed to support autonomous vehicle control systems and enhance passenger safety.

The concept tyre is capable of sensing road and weather conditions.

The IntelliGrip Urban would enable fleets to monitor their vehicles and tyres in real time, giving them a competitive advantage whilst helping to increase their profitability.

 Goodyear Eagle 360 Urban.

Meanwhile, the Eagle 360 Urban tyre features bionic skin with a sensor network that allows the concept tyre to check on its own status and gather information on its environment, including the road surface.

Via connectivity with other vehicles as well as infrastructure, traffic and mobility management systems, the Eagle 360 Urban also captures information on its surroundings in real-time.

The bionic skin’s high-sensory capacity tread, with its sensor network, captures information on road and weather conditions and transmits this input to the vehicle’s ‘nervous system’ to improve the car’s braking, handling and efficiency.

 Goodyear IntelliGrip Urban.

The intelligent morphing tread prepares the vehicle for the unexpected by proactively providing safety under all conditions.

Depending on the road and weather conditions, the most appropriate tread pattern appears autonomously with the help of the bionic skin of the tyre.

The bionic skin allows self-healing repair.

And, in combination with the Artificial Intelligence unit, it measures current and predicts future tyre wear to allow automated tyre management, enabling predictive and proactive maintenance.


Angelique Kerber meets new Porsche Panamera Turbo

                STUTTGART: Tennis queen Angelique Kerber landed in Munich on Tuesday morning, after her triumph at the US Open in New York, and the new world No. 1 met another fantastic athlete – the Porsche Panamera Turbo.

The Porsche brand ambassador was not going to be stopped from getting behind the steering wheel herself and driving the 550bhp gran turismo to a photo shoot and press roundtable.

The Panamera Turbo which unites the performance of a true sports car with the comfort of a luxury limousine, recently set a new record of 7:38 minutes for a four door car around the legendary Nurburgring North Loop.

"In climbing to the top of the world rankings and winning the US Open, Angelique Kerber has written sports history,” said Porsche chairman Oliver Blume.

“She’s a fantastic sportswoman and a role model that young people can base themselves on. We are proud of our brand ambassador.”


Kia Niro HUV set for Chicago Auto Show world premiere

                SEOUL: Kia has unveiled on Monday the first official images of the sporty and versatile Niro – an all-new Hybrid Utility Vehicle (HUV) that’s set to add a fresh dimension to the global compact SUV market.

The styling of the Niro was led by Kia’s design centres in California and Namyang in South Korea and incorporates the practicality and aesthetic allure of a compact SUV, with a sleek, aerodynamic body and subtly sculptured surfaces.

Highlighting the raised rear haunches that endow the HUV with an athletic stance, the image also reveals high-mounted LED taillights that complement an uncluttered rear end. The slim character line and rear windows emphasise the car’s sleek profile, while allowing greater room for the Niro’s muscular wheel arches.

The all-new Kia Niro is the first model to be based on Kia’s new dedicated eco-car platform, and the HUV is set to achieve a sub-90 g/km CO2 emissions rating (combined, based on the New European Driving Cycle), thanks to its all-new downsized gasoline-electric hybrid powertrain.

The Niro HUV will be unveiled to the world at the 2016 Chicago Auto Show in February.


Ducati shows off SuperSport at Intermot

                COLOGNE: Ducati has unveiled the SuperSport, the company's latest sport road bike, at the Intermot motorcycle fair here. It was the first of a series of new bikes from Ducati for 2017.

The SuperSport is designed for those who want a sport-inspired bike that still provides comfort and easy handling on everyday roads. Ducati described it as a fun bike that's versatile and accessible.

The approachable feel is attributed to easy handling, the confidence-inspiring Ducati Safety Pack (Bosch ABS + Ducati Traction Control), the price-quality ratio of the equipment and the long maintenance intervals.

Powering the SuperSport is a twin-cylinder 937 cm³ Testastretta 11° engine, delivering 113hp and a linear torque curve. With three riding modes (Sport, Touring and Urban), the SuperSport's behaviour can be adapted to different moods and riding conditions. It is also ideal for medium-distance runs as it comes with a 16-litre fuel tank coupled with relaxed rider and passenger positions and good airflow deflection from the height-adjustable screen.

The SuperSport range includes a SuperSport S version featuring fully adjustable Öhlins suspension, the Ducati Quick Shift up/down system and a rear seat cover: the latter are also available as accessories for the SuperSport.

The SuperSport is displayed together with other 2017 bikes such as the Monster 821 EURO 4, now available in the new “Dust Grey”, and the Diavel EURO 4. Other all-new developments include the “Volcano Grey” colour for the Multistrada 1200 S, on which technical upgrades have been introduced, and the 1299 Panigale, which now features a new EVO electronics package featuring Ducati Traction Control (DTC) and Ducati Wheelie Control (DWC).


Hyundai promotes its China design chief to head global styling

                SEOUL: Hyundai Motor Company announced that Hyundai Design director in China Simon Loasby (pic) has been promoted to Head of Hyundai Styling Group at Hyundai Design Center in Korea.

Since his arrival at Hyundai Motor in mid-2017, Loasby has been defining Hyundai’s design identity in China, spearheading introductions of new models with stylish design language, including the LaFesta sporty sedan.

In his new role, Loasby will oversee design strategy and direction for Hyundai models worldwide, reporting to SangYup Lee, Head of the Hyundai Design Center, and Luc Donckerwolke, Chief Design Officer of Hyundai Motor Group.

Loasby’s position as Director of China Design will be succeeded by Vice President Minchul Koo, who is currently the Head of Hyundai Exterior Design Group.

Loasby, 51, has a Master’s Degree in Vehicle Design from the Royal College of Art in London, and studied Mechanical Engineering at the University of London.

Prior to joining Hyundai, he spent 10 years in China as Director of Design for Volkswagen Group China, working on numerous high-profile projects for Chinese customers, following leadership roles at Rolls-Royce and Bentley Motor Cars.


X5 M Competition is 5 millionth BMW built in the US

                SPARTANBURG: The 5 millionth BMW built in the United States rolled off the line at Plant Spartanburg in South Carolina on June 4.

The historic vehicle is a Toronto Red Metallic BMW X5 M Competition equipped with a 617-horsepower M TwinPower Turbo V-8 engine, Silverstone Full Merino Leather interior and 21/22-inch M Star-spoke bi-color wheels.

Due to its historic significance, this X5 M Competition will remain at the factory and become part of the BMW historic collection.

“You cannot be successful in business if you do not have great products and great people. This BMW X5 M Competition is a symbol of the success of our products and the commitment and dedication of our associates and supplier network,” said Knudt Flor, president and CEO of BMW Manufacturing.

“Every BMW X5 in the world comes from Plant Spartanburg. We are proud to call South Carolina home!”

Last year, the plant, which is BMW's largest in the world, celebrated 25 years and set a new production record of 411,620 BMW Sports Activity Vehicles.

The plant employs more than 11,000 people who build BMW X3, X4, X5, X6 and X7 models for the U.S. market and the world.

“BMW changed the very fabric of our state’s economy when it decided to locate in South Carolina nearly three decades ago,” said Gov. Henry McMaster.


Wrong steering component fitted to new Mercedes S-Class sparks recall, up to 1,400 units affected

                STUTTGART: It's scary news that Mercedes-Benz can do without but the serious defect affecting a small number of the latest S-Class flagship was revealed in a report by Business Insider earlier this month.

Daimler is recalling up to 1,400 units of the 2021 model over flaws in the inner tie rods that could lead to dangerous steering issues.

Early buyers of the affected S-Class units have been urged to head to their local dealerships immediately for an inspection of the tie rods and replace them for free if necessary.

Business Insider cited a Daimler spokesman as saying that the affected cars might have been supplied with inner tie rods not meant for the model. This could then lead to a situation where the connection to the steering rack might not “permanently withstand the stress of driving.”

The component is said to be shipped by the supplier pre-assembled as a complete unit and installed at Mercedes's Factory 56 plant in Sindelfingen, Germany.

The W223 S-Class made its world premiere in September 2020.


Continental teams up with CarBengkel app

                PETALING JAYA: Continental Tyres in Malaysia has teamed up with CarBengkel mobile application which will enable car owners to locate via GPS the location of the nearest Continental, Dunlop or Viking workshops to request for breakdown and tyre change quotations and services.

“This is a great app for motorists to have on their smartphones which can help them in emergencies. Continental Tyres is honoured to partner with CarBengkel. With it, we’re better able to attend to our customers’ needs where ever they may be,” said vice-president of marketing and sales, PLT & TT, Continental Tyres, Malaysia, Cameron Wilson.

CarBengkel is available for free on both Apple AppStore and Google Play and is linked to a network of 1,000 workshops, and service centres nationwide.

CarBengkel team is currently scrutinizing an additional 1,800 workshops and service centres to be included its network.

CarBengkel founder and managing director Armin Baniaz said he and his team built the app so that motorists can spend less time looking for a workshop that offers impeccable service at affordable prices.

“Most households do not set aside a budget for car maintenance as they do other expenses but it needs to be done to ensure the vehicle’s optimal performance. It is only when the time comes for the vehicle’s regular service or when it breaks down that motorists realise that they have to part with a sum of money and maybe even more if an essential part of the vehicle needs to be replaced,” said Armin.

Motorists can use CarBengkel to request price quotations from workshops for repair or maintenance works and choose the one that fits their budget.

The CarBengkel mobile application also enables users to send an SOS alert to nearby workshop when their vehicles break down in unfamiliar territories.

CarBengkel signed a partnership with Malaysia Automotive Institute (MAI) to chart the network of service centres and workshops nationwide. MAI will also be collating labour costs and the recommended retail prices of car parts which will be made available on the CarBengkel app.


Continental bets on automated-driving growth in unit overhaul

                FRANKFURT: Continental AG will create a dedicated unit for its self-driving technology as the German automotive supplier hopes to benefit from rising sales for electric cars filled with electronic gadgetry.

Continental’s board approved plans to move the driver-assistance business into a special “Autonomous Mobility” unit at the start of next year, the company said Tuesday.

It’s also pushing ahead with the spinoff of its Vitesco powertrain division in the second half of 2021.

“The autonomous mobility market will more than double in the next three years,” Chief Executive Officer Nikolai Setzer said. “Our goal is and will continue to be global technology leadership when it comes to assisted and automated driving.”

Continental earlier this month warned profitability will be held back by an industry-wide shortage of semiconductors that could drag on through the rest of the year and ongoing fallout from the pandemic.

The manufacturer has been hard hit by the global health crisis that’s disrupted the industry, having announced plans last year to cut or transfer some 30,000 jobs.

A steady decline in returns culminated in the abrupt departure of former CEO Elmar Degenhart. Since then, chip troubles have plagued plants across the industry.

Setzer pledged in December to sharpen the group’s focus on growth areas. Investments in automated driving functions will rise by as much as €250 million (RM1.2bil) this year as the auto industry adds electric models and software-based functions.

Continental swung to a €718 million operating loss last year, while the adjusted result more than halved to €1.3 billion. The adjusted Ebit margin slumped to 3.5%.


CNY toll discounts on LDP, Sprint and Kesas highways

                PETALING JAYA: Lingkaran Trans Kota Sdn Bhd (Litrak) has announced that the group will be giving toll discounts on Jan 28 in conjunction with the Chinese New Year.

Its communications department head, Shah Rizal Mohamed Fawzi, said all classes of vehicles would be given discounts on the Damansara-Puchong (LDP) and the Western KL Traffic Dispersal Link System (Sprint) highways.

However, he said, the toll discount would only be given to Class 1 vehicle owners on the Shah Alam (Kesas) Highway. (Class 1 vehicles are those with 2 axles and 3 or 4 wheels excluding taxis)

A 60 sen discount would be given to those travelling on the LDP, while Sprint Highway road users would enjoy a 20 sen discount from midnight to 11.59 pm on that day.

"A 10% toll discount will only be given to Class 1 vehicles owners plying the Kesas Highway," he told reporters during a Litrak Chinese New Year charity programme in Puchong near here today.

He said it was estimated that some 578,000 motorists travelling on these three highways would be enjoying the discounts offered by the respective concessionaires on this Chinese New Year.


Nissan names darkhorse candidate Uchida as next CEO, Gupta as COO

                TOKYO: Nissan Motor Co named Senior Vice President Makoto Uchida as its next chief executive on Tuesday, picking a relative outsider who joined the automaker mid-career and is known for his rigorous work ethic and relentless focus on cost control.

In picking Uchida, the board of Japan's second-largest automaker selected an executive who was not seen as a top contender in recent weeks.

He will be joined by Mitsubishi Motors executive Ashwani Gupta, who was named as chief operating officer. Former China chief Jun Seki, who was widely seen as one of the top contenders for the CEO job, will be vice COO, the company said.

The three will take the helm of a company that has been shaken by turmoil following the downfall of former Chairman Carlos Ghosn last year and the departure of former CEO Hiroto Saikawwa

"Strong leadership is required," Yasushi Kimura, Nissan's chairman, told a news conference. "Group leadership, where they all support each other, will be more transparent."

Directors at Nissan, including those from top shareholder Renault SA, voted unanimously in favour of the two executives, a source said.

Ghosn is awaiting trial in Tokyo on financial misconduct charges that he denies.

Saikawa was forced to step down after he admitted to being improperly overpaid.

The internal strife also has implications for Nissan's often difficult relationship with Renault.

Uchida was not seen as one of the frontrunners in the race to be the next chief executive, Reuters has reported.

The India-born Gupta is currently COO of alliance junior partner Mitsubishi Motors Corp.


Stiffer penalties for all forms of reckless driving, not just drink driving, says ministry

                PETALING JAYA: The proposed amendments for stiffer punishments for drink driving will also include other forms of reckless driving, says the Transport Ministry.

Its Minister, Datuk Seri Dr Wee Ka Siong, said the proposed amendments to Sections 41-45 of the Road Transport Act 1987 are mainly related to driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, and dangerous driving.

"Therefore, be it driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol or 'Geng Basikal Lajak' (modified bicycles) or 'Mat Rempit' (motorcycle racers), any form of reckless or dangerous driving will be covered in the proposed amendments to the Act," he said.

Dr Wee, who is also MCA president, said the issue of driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol had nothing to do with race or religion.

"This is an issue of personal safety. Any final amendments to the Act are to impose more severe punishments against dangerous drivers and have nothing to do with race," the Ayer Hitam MP posted on Facebook last night.

He added that tragedies related to dangerous driving have nothing to do with race, adding that people need to have "more compassion towards others."

"I hope we can look beyond race, religion or political differences to support the proposed amendments to this Act," he said.

On May 30, Dr Wee appealed to motorists not to drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

He said motorists must value their own lives and those of other road users, following another incident where a drunk driver crashed into a motorcycle that killed one and seriously injured another.

Dr Wee also assured that all proposed amendments to the Road Transport Act 1987 will be finalised in mid-June before being tabled at a Cabinet meeting.

On May 29, a 22-year-old man who was driving while under the influence of alcohol was detained following a fatal accident near the Federal Highway.

The police said the car driven by the man was involved in a collision with a motorcycle at KM34.2 of the Federal Highway at around 6am.

The accident led to the death of the 42-year-old motorcycle pillion rider while the rider sustained serious injuries.