Want to buy a new car online? You almost can – through a dealer

                The auto dealer – around for more than a century and viewed almost as negatively as members of Congress – looked like a ripe target for disruption when retailing moved online.

Now that startups have tried and failed to beat the car salesman, many are taking a different route: catering to them.

After watching predecessors like TrueCar Inc and Ford Motor Co stumble in their attempts to bring more Amazon-like e-commerce to car shopping, a new wave of auto finance upstarts has emerged. Rather than fight a dispersed and politically-connected dealer industry, they’re bringing the country’s 17,000 new-car dealers into the digital age, meaning consumers aren’t going to be bypassing the dealership to buy new rides anytime soon.

“The market is so big that there’s nothing preventing someone from creating a new dealership model, but I want to go after the biggest part of the pie, which is how consumers buy cars today,” said Kevin Singerman, founder of AutoFi, a two-year-old San Francisco-based startup that began piloting its mobile financing app with Ford dealerships this winter. “That’s a much more attractive opportunity.”

Almost 20 years after the Internet brought price transparency to the US’s almost US$1tril (RM4.43tril)-a-year new car sales market, several steps of the shopping process have migrated online. But as buyers turn to Kelley Blue Book and AutoTrader.com for price comparisons and Consumer Reports for model reviews, they remain unable to finish the car-buying process without a visit to the dealer.

The average consumer visited about 2.8 dealerships before buying a car in 2016, compared to 3.5 in 2012, according to JD Power & Associates.

The portion of the buying process that’s yet to be cracked – solidifying financing and insurance – remains a profit centre for dealers and has become a target for startups, though most are now taking aim with dealers’ blessings. The new apps replace tedious paperwork with a few taps and swipes on a smartphone, but the underlying economics are little changed.

In most of these digital-age car-financing apps, the same banks quote the same rates they would in a dealership, and the so-called “dealer reserve” – the fee the dealer gets for being an intermediary between lender and borrower – remains baked into the monthly car payment. That’s the case at Irvine, California-based mobile financing app AutoGravity, said chief marketing officer Serge Vartanov.

The startup, which makes money by charging dealers and banks an origination fee once a car sale is completed, counts several ex-finance executives from Daimler AG among its founders and is backed by the German carmaker. The founders visited dealerships and lenders before writing a single line of code, Vartanov said.

AutoGravity is looking to improve the car shopping experience “without disrupting anyone,” he said.

AutoGravity makes a “white label” version of its app that dealers can roll out with their own branding. It allows shoppers to pick a car, find a dealer and apply for credit approval all from their couch.

“It feels nice being able to go through the loan process without having to dress up and go down to either a bank or heaven forbid the dealership,” one user, Justin Turpin, wrote in a review on the Google Play app store. “Of course once you do get the loan you have to put your pants on to get the car.”

The startups have good reason to tread lightly on traditional dealer turf. Scott Painter, former head of vehicle pricing site TrueCar, stepped down in late 2015 after angry dealers nearly bankrupted the company by withdrawing from the site over concerns it was squeezing them on pricing. Jacques Nasser, a former Ford chief executive officer, was forced out in 2001 after his attempts to sell vehicles online incurred dealer wrath.

There are also practical reasons for dealers to stick around. Most consumers want to test drive a big-ticket purchase like a car, and dealers need to do in-person inspections to assess the value of a trade-in, said Chris Sutton, an analyst with JD Power. They also do repairs and maintenance work, and with cars growing more complex and software-laden, that work becomes more specialized.

Regulations also work in dealers’ favour. Franchise laws that have been on the books for decades were put in place to prevent manufacturers from opening stores that would compete directly with mom-and-pop dealers. Tesla Inc has been challenging the direct-sales ban on a state-by-state basis, with mixed results.

Even the most futuristic of technologies are carving out a role for dealers. BMW AG and Fiat Chrysler Automobiles NV are rolling out augmented reality features for smartphones and several automakers are developing virtual reality goggles that let consumers inspect cars remotely but ultimately still steer them to a dealership, according to Accenture Plc.

“Car dealers will continue to play a vital role as the point of sale and delivery,” said Georg Bauer, a former BMW and Tesla executive who founded a mobile car-buying startup called Fair with TrueCar’s Painter. “They need to embrace and adopt new technologies and alternative ownership models to stay in the game.”

To be sure, there are startups in the US that have already put the entire car buying process online – including those final steps dealers are gripping tight. But they’re confined to the used-car market due to franchise laws and manufacturers’ reliance on dealer networks. Used-car startups raised US$1.1bil (RM4.86bil) globally last year, down from a peak of US$1.2bil (RM5.31bil) in 2015, according to data from CB Insights.

Vroom is a three-year-old startup that buys, refurbishes and delivers used cars to shoppers’ doorsteps without making them visit a dealership. The company sold 50,000 units last year and had US$1.1bil (RM4.86bil) in revenue, according to CEO Paul Hennessy.

By comparison, AutoNation, the largest dealership group in the US, sold 225,713 used cars in 2016 – plus 337,622 new ones, according to its annual report. Hennessy says he has enough scale to avoid charging customers a dealer reserve fee on financing, a win for customers who also get to skip the dealership.

Neither Vroom, nor used-car online marketplace Shift, which offers online credit approvals and doorstep delivery, seems too intent on eating dealers’ lunch. They say the market is big enough to accommodate everyone, and they aren’t planning to push their dealer-free used-car strategy into the new-car market.

Dealers themselves are embracing technological change because they realize they have no choice but to accept the dominance of e-commerce, said Sutton of JD Power.

Geri Lynn, the owner of a Nissan dealership in Houma, Louisiana, bought new web tools earlier this year that allow shoppers to negotiate a whole purchase online and just come into the dealership to sign the paperwork. Despite all the change, she’s confident enough to be investing a couple of million dollars in remodelling her dealership.

“We don’t make US$5,000 (RM22,132) on a used car like we used to, but I don’t know any dealers in this country that are not earning a good living,” said Lynn, who’s been in the business since 1985. “Dealers are smart and they know how to make money, and they’re going to find ways to make money even when the rug gets pulled out from under them.”


Ferrari considering Netflix and esports involvement

                BARCELONA: Ferrari are considering engaging with Netflix on a second Formula One documentary as well as joining the rest of the 10 teams in the esports world championship, team boss Mattia Binotto said.

Ferrari and champions Mercedes did not cooperate on the successful "Drive to Survive" 10-part fly-on-the-wall series filmed by Netflix last season, arguing that they needed to focus on the title battle.

When their cars or drivers did feature, it was from the official world feed television footage.

“It’s certainly an interesting program. We were not participating last season as Ferrari,” Binotto told reporters at the Spanish Grand Prix, the fifth round of the 21 race championship.

“We are considering it at the moment. We have not taken our final decision, so it’s something we will do in the next few weeks.”

Formula One’s managing director Sean Bratches said this month that he expected a second series to go ahead, with filming already underway.

Ferrari are the only ones without a presence in the official F1 esports championship, which is in its third season and involves the teams only later in the year. Mercedes won both titles last year, as in the real world.

Binotto said Ferrari’s stance on that could change as well.

“Esport is increasing in terms of interest and certainly as Ferrari we are looking seriously into it,” he said.

“We are not yet fully committed to the program but it’s something where the discussions are ongoing and we will very soon make our own decision.”


Dua Lipa and Jaguar create music track for fans to remix

                LONDON: British/Kosovan singer-songwriter Dua Lipa has collaborated with Jaguar to make music in a completely new way.

Using Jaguar’s custom-made software, she created an exclusive remix of her latest track, ‘Want To’ and empowered fans all over the world to create personalised remixes using their own data – from the way they drive, the songs they listen to, or by tapping a rhythm on a mobile.

Over a million different remixes are possible, with multiple tempos and versions based on a range of music genres from hip- hop and dance, to orchestral, pop music and drum and bass.

The track has already become the most remixed song in history following its launch at an exclusive gig at Sugar City in Amsterdam, where music fans and stars from across Europe, including supermodel Doutzen Kroes and actress Alix Benezech, drove the all-electric I-PACE to create their own versions.

To create her own remix of ‘Want To’, Dua Lipa drove the Jaguar I-PACE, and her style of driving was captured by the car’s intelligent sensors. From the amount of electrical energy consumed, to the way Dua Lipa accelerated and braked, the data captured was used to influence the track; from the tempo to the arrangement and the overall feel.

The Dua Lipa x Jaguar version of ‘Want To’ appears on the album ‘Dua Lipa The Complete Collection’, released this Friday, Sept 7.

Speaking at the track’s launch in Amsterdam, Dua Lipa said: “I’m so excited to collaborate with Jaguar and push the boundaries of music and technology for my fans. It’s pretty mind-blowing that anyone can create their own unique version of my single ‘Want To’ based on the way they drive a Jaguar, or what music they listen to.

“It’s crazy to think that the data from my drive in the electric I-PACE can alter the energy of my music to create a totally new and incredible sound.”

It’s not only drivers who can remix the track, music fans across the globe will also be able to create their own versions of the Dua Lipa song by using Jaguar’s clever remix software at http://remix.jointhepace.com.

This innovative app allows users to remix the Dua Lipa track using their Spotify streaming history – taking data from the music they listen to and rearranging elements of the track to create a personalised version.

From the average tempo of your playlists, to the mood and energy of the music you stream most often, the data is used to conduct a remix just for you. Those without a Spotify account can also create a remix in the app by tapping their mobile to ‘set the pace’ of a new version of the song.

All remixes can then be shared via the user’s social channels.


Feb 16-22: Petrol prices up 1 sen


Mitsubishi Triton exceeds 16% target market share

                KUALA LUMPUR: The Mitsubishi Triton was the only pick-up model to grow year-on-year sales, with 5,762 units sold (+ 0.9%) for Financial Year 2019 (April 2019 to March 2020).

This was despite the pick-up truck segment sales declining by 21% during the same period of time.

From January to March 2020, the Triton consistently maintained its market share by 22% or more.

The Triton’s overall market share for FY2019 closed at 17% versus Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia's (MMM) target of 16%.

In FY2019, the Triton double cab was the top seller in the pick-up truck segment, in three states namely Melaka, Penang and Kedah.

“We are happy that the Mitsubishi Triton’s appeal in Malaysia remains strong. Throughout the year, the Triton has been recognised as the best-handling, the more fuel-efficient pick-up truck as well as the cheapest to maintain in terms of after sales service,” said Tomoyuki Shinnishi, CEO of MMM.

He added, “The automotive sector is likely to remain under pressure with the Covid-19 pandemic but it is imperative for the company to focus on the positives while planning for the growth of our businesses once the situation has improved. Rest assured, our team is working closely to implement extra precautionary measures, post-MCOto ensure that our sales outlets and service centres are a safe place for customers to shop and to service their cars with peace in mind.”


Land Rover customer wins trip to Britain

                KUALA LUMPUR: Jaguar Land Rover Malaysia’s authorised dealer Sisma Auto Sdn Bhd and multiple award-winning carrier Qatar Airways teamed up to reward a lucky customer with a 5-star trip to Britain.

As the top winner of the Sisma Auto “UK VIP Experience” promotion, property developer Tan Sri M. Ramasamy won two return business class tickets on Qatar Airways’ world’s best Business Class, 5-star accommodation for 4D3N, a Land Rover Experience Drive in Solihull and a private tour of Land Rover’s factory.

Sisma Auto managing director Syed Khalil Syed Ibrahim and Qatar Airways Country Manager for Malaysia and Brunei, Emmanuel Oswald, presented the prize to the winner, who was represented by his wife Puan Sri Indra Ghandi at the dealer’s Kuala Lumpur City showroom at Menara Worldwide recently.

Ramasamy had bought a Range Rover Vogue, which was one of more than 200 Jaguars and Land Rover vehicle sold in the competition period.

“At Sisma Auto, we have always emphasised on providing customers with a unique and outstanding experience. Our partnership with a 5-star airline like Qatar Airways, acclaimed for its exquisite customer service, reflects our brand values and would ensure a truly pampering journey to and from London for the lucky winner,” said Syed Khalil.

“I decided to buy my Range Rover from Sisma Auto as their personalised service has been exceptional and gives me total peace of mind. I am looking forward to visiting the Land Rover factory for the first time, and of course, the driving experience at Solihul,” Ramasamy, 52, said.

Qatar Airways was named ‘Airline of the Year’ and ‘Best Airline in the Middle East’ and won the ‘Best Business Class Seat’ category at the 2015 Skytrax World Airline Awards.


Toyota Fortuner gets EEV status costs up to RM16,000 less

                SHAH ALAM: With immediate effect, the Malaysian Government has deemed the Toyota Fortuner an Energy Efficient Vehicle (EEV), which means it gets a RM16,000 reduction (depending on variant) off its price.

With the reduction, the entry-level turbo-diesel Fortuner 2.4 VRZ is now priced on the road with GST and insurance at RM175,400 while the range-topping petrol-powered 2.7 SRZ is now at RM183,800.

"Since the announcement of the current National Automotive Policy in January 2014, UMW Toyota Motor has strived to support the policy and assembling EEVs demonstrates our commitment," said UMW Toyota Motor deputy chairman Akio Takeyama.

According to the company, the Fortuner was tuned to achieve high fuel-efficiency to allow owners to get more mileage out of the 80-litre fuel tank.

Following the price reduction, the Fortuner's specifications remain unchanged with the 2.7 SRZ maintaining its Bi-LED headlamps, Power Back Door, seven airbags, vehicle stability control and 6-speed sequential automatic transmission with paddle shifters to name a few.

Also maintained is the Fortuner's a five-year unlimited warranty, reinforced chassis frame, suspension revisions for comfort and improved sound insulation for a quieter cabin.

The Fortuner, launched in May 2016, received the full five-star crash rating by ASEAN New Car Assessment Programme (NCAP) and was the best Sport Utility Vehicle (SUV)/Crossover at the 2016 CarSifu Editors Choice awards.

“Besides meeting criteria relating to the fuel efficiency of the model, qualifying for EEV incentives also encompasses the level of investment made, transfer of technology, localisation of components, and economic contribution to the nation," said UMW Toyota Motor president Ravindran Kurusamy.

For more information, log on to www.toyota.com.my, call 1-800- 8-TOYOTA (869682) or visit the nearest Toyota outlet.


Why are we so angry on the road?

A woman trying to calm an angry driver after two cars stopped on the PIE. An in-car camera video of a confrontation between the two drivers was posted on Dec 9. - Photos from Facebook/roads.sg
SINGAPORE: They think nothing of stopping the car in the middle of a highway to spew vulgarities at each other.

Some angry motorists have even exchanged blows, in full view of others.

They do not seem to care that they are being caught in the act, thanks to the widespread use of in-car cameras.

The scourge of road rage is back in the news - that too in full view of all.

In 2001, the situation was such that then Chief Justice Yong Pung How said road rage offenders should face jail time, and that a fine was not enough to fight it.

In 2002, a year after jail time became a precedent for road rage incidents involving violence, there were 61 cases reported.

According to the latest police statistics obtained by The Sunday Times, the number of road rage incidents reported as "voluntarily causing hurt" cases hit 75 last year, up from 69 in 2014. There were 90 reported cases in 2013.

These numbers, however, do not tell the full story as not all confrontations end in fisticuffs. Many are not reported but end up online, thanks to in-car cameras.

Two recent videos that were posted on the community page Roads.sg captured fuming motorists. Despite the loud and colourful exchanges, they did not trade blows. But the videos went viral and sparked animated online discussions not just about who was right, but also the problem with road rage here.

In one of the videos, posted on Dec 9 and viewed more than 478,000 times, a heated dispute occurs between two drivers on the Pan-Island Expressway. The driver of a black Chevrolet is seen getting out of his car and confronting the driver of a white BMW.

The Chevrolet driver claimed the other driver did not slow down to let him merge into the PIE. The BMW driver, however, wrote on Roads.sg that he did not even see the Chevrolet.

In another video, posted last Monday and viewed more than 100,000 times, the passengers of another BMW are seen making obscene gestures and appeared to be spitting at the car behind. The car's camera caught their antics.

Aloysius Fong, who started Roads.sg in 2014, said the site receives about a hundred video submissions from motorists every month, but only a few of them involve road rage.

He said in-car cameras do not capture all road rage incidents. Sometimes, motorists use their mobile phone to film the altercation.

But these cameras do not just catch an exchange. Sometimes, they spark it. "In-car cameras are supposed to capture unjust acts (on the road). Instead, people think that since they have a camera, and if they feel they are in the right, they are entitled to confront others," he said.

Fong added that because motorists think they have video footage which favours their case, they can confront other road users.

Mohamed Baiross, managing partner of I.R.B Law LLP, said that police do not just rely on videos. They also explore oral and written testimonies, documents, and photographs in a trial. "But at the end of the day, it lies with the trial judge how much weight he wants to give to the video evidence," he added.

He advised motorists to send their videos to the police, instead of putting them up on social media.

"Motorists may feel that there is a public interest in shaming and bringing up such bad behaviour. But it could be potentially defamatory and smacks of vigilante justice - let the authorities do the enforcement under the due process of law."

But why are people so angry?

Besides impatience, Fong said that many drivers are also protective of their pricey vehicles.

"It's an expensive investment, they think. When you knock into my car, I'm going to retaliate," he said of the mindset.

Psychiatrists say there are other reasons. Dr Adrian Wang, a consultant psychiatrist at Gleneagles Medical Centre, said: "People who are vulnerable to road rage may have a lot of tension, stress, and resentment, harboured over time.

"And when you have had a bad day at work, or had a row with the wife, the anger takes over. On another day, you may have just given way to another motorist and let it pass."

Dr Wang said road rage is not necessarily about confrontations. The anger can also be expressed through driving dangerously, such as cutting into the lanes of others.

Motorist Jerry Yeo, 43, said he does get irritated on the road.

"Drivers slowing down in front of you for no reason, or tailgating. I do get angry but I wouldn't go beyond just a few toots of the horn," he said.

The police, meanwhile, encourage motorists to submit videos of traffic violations as they could provide critical information to aid investigations. "Witnesses of such violations are also strongly encouraged to come forward to lodge a police report, to assist the Traffic Police with investigations," a police spokesman told The Sunday Times.

"As the police cannot be everywhere all the time, the community serves as additional eyes for us on the roads," he added.


Locally assembled Ducati Multistrada 1200 unveiled

PETALING JAYA: Next Bike, the sole importer and distributor of the Ducati brand in Malaysia, has unveiled the latest iterations of the venerated Multistrada 1200.

The locally assembled Multistrada 1200 features the latest Desmodromic variable timing technology called the Ducati Testastretta DVT that is said to be the first in the motorcycle industry.

The DVT engine controls both the intake and exhaust valves independently to optimise performance across the entire power band to give smooth delivery, exciting torque at low rpms, yet giving good fuel consumption figures that are Euro 4 compliant.

The twin-cylinder engine in L-configuration pumps out 117.7kW at 9,500rpm, though Ducati did not reveal the torque figures.

Safety will be a strong selling point of the Multistrada, with the presence of the Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) to improve the performance of the ABS brakes and traction control.

IMU detects the roll, yaw and pitch angles to calibrate braking performance and to prevent wheel locks or spins, even when the bike is taking a corner.

On the Multistrada 1200S, the IMU is paired to a series of LED lights in front that will acts as cornering lights to boost night visibility when taking corners, making this a much safer machine.

This high-end version of the Multistrada also features a Bluetooth module as standard to enable seamless integration between the machine and smartphones running on iOS or Android.

Beyond being able to answer calls, the rider will also be alerted to SMSes (but cannot read them), as well as control his/her playlist. The Ducati Multimedia System comes in a colour TFT dashboard that will also let riders have a recording of their riding experience via ducati.com.

In a statement issued at the launch on Friday, Datuk SM Faisal Tan Sri SM Nasimuddin, group executive chairman of the NAZA World group said 2016 will be a milestone year for Ducati Malaysia.

"The new Multistrada 1200 plays an important role in our product line-up in Malaysia and it would increase our market share in the premium bike segment and further capture the hearts of Malaysians. The new Multistrada 1200 resonates sports handling, smooth performance and low fuel consumption to a whole new level.”

The Multistrada 1200 and Multistrada 1200S is priced at 127,198.94 and RM144,158.94 with GST, respectively.

Test rides at the Ducati outlet at Naza Automall here are available.


Italy curbs China influence over F1 tyremaker Pirelli

                ROME: Italy’s government stepped in to limit the influence of China’s Sinochem over Formula One supplier Pirelli SpA, citing concern about data collected by sensors in the company’s tyres.

Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s cabinet used its “golden power” rights to impose restrictions on Sinochem’s access to information from the technology, deeming it strategically important, the government said in a statement Friday. Sinochem is Pirelli’s biggest investor.

The goal is to protect a technology that allows for advanced embedded sensors in tyres that collect location and infrastructure data. The data could be used for industrial optimisation and feed into artificial intelligence models, making it critical to national security, according to the statement.

Some strategic decisions will require an 80% majority in the board and Pirelli will be required to set up an independent unit to ensure the security of the technology and its data. A Pirelli spokesman declined to comment.

Pirelli is a test case for Meloni as she seeks to show resolve in distancing Italy’s economy from China at a time of increasing US-Chinese technological and economic rivalry.

Sinochem owns a 37% stake in Pirelli following a 2017 listing. Bloomberg News first reported in April about Italy’s plan to restrict Sinochem’s power over Pirelli.

Milan-based Pirelli has touted its system as the future of tyres, saying the next step would be to connect them “to a network with other vehicles and the surrounding infrastructure”

Pirelli is one of Italy’s most prominent manufacturers, known for its focus on patents as more efficient tyres become key components in the auto industry, especially for electric vehicles.

The company is a key supplier to super-car makers and a partner of Formula One racing. Pirelli in 2020 ranked third in Italian filings to the European Patent Office.

Italy’s intervention was triggered by the renewal of a shareholder pact between Sinochem and Camfin, the financial holding of Pirelli CEO Marco Tronchetti Provera. Camfin owned 14.1% of Pirelli.

The pact requires government approval in line with Italy’s enhanced "golden power" rules.


Beer and bull-riding: Australian revellers celebrate the outback

The Deni Ute Muster draws some 20,000 revellers and 6,000 pick-up trucks. — AFP

SYDNEY: Thousands of revellers have flocked to the rural Australian town of Deniliquin in a rowdy celebration of their love of utility vehicles and the outback, with whip-cracking and bull-riding contests among the highlights.

The Deni Ute Muster, which celebrated its 20th anniversary this weekend, is the biggest festival of its kind in the world.

It draws some 20,000 revellers and 6,000 pick-up trucks — known locally as utes — from across the vast continent to the small town of Deniliquin around 700km south-west of here.

"It's a gathering of utes, an iconic event that celebrates lots of rural Australia," said the festival's general manager Vicky Lowry.

The two-day event has outlasted other festivals held in Australia by embracing the nation's rural heritage, including the ubiquitous ute commonly used on farms.

First built in Australia in the 1930s by the Ford Motor Company, the ute was believed to have been designed to specifically cater to local farming families, and has since become a symbol of the country's outback culture.

Other highlights include so-called circlework competitions — where utes drive around a dirt track doing a variation of donuts — kicking up dust as thousands of spectators cheer them on.

But the main highlight remains the ute paddock, where Australians young and old party late into the night in front of large bonfires, setting up tents or swags — a rolled-up tent — beside their vehicles.

At the paddock, jumping on top of your ute to crack a whip or down a bottle of beer is a common occurrence, as is the blasting of country music.

"Well, we come here with the boys... just come to get away from work and get drunk," Lochie Donovan, 20, told AFP before jumping on the hood of a ute to empty a can of beer.

The event is also a chance for rural Australians, who often live hundreds of kilometres from the nearest town, to make new friends.

"It's my first time, it's been on my bucket list. I just wanted to come for a bit of a perv on the fellas. Cowboys are good," said Debbie-Jane Cornford, 42, who was attending her first ute muster.

The festival attracts top local and international country music singers, with American star Carrie Underwood headlining this year.


Lazada Malaysia selling 25 Volkswagen cars with free 'JOIN' accessories

                KUALA LUMPUR: Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM) today launched the ‘JOIN’ range, which is an accessory package available on the Volkswagen Polo, Vento Comfortline and Highline, Tiguan Highline and Passat Comfortline.

‘JOIN’ accessories include side scuff plates, rear spoiler, trunk garnish, VW Tint, and a list of other exclusive add-ons worth up to RM12,000, depending on the model.

Volkswagen and Lazada Malaysia are once again collaborating to offer a special deal for the Malaysian public.

Twenty-five units of JOIN models will be exclusively available on Lazada from Oct 12 to Oct 30.

Customers need only pay the retail price of the car to receive the ‘JOIN’ accessory package for free.

To make a booking, customers are required to pay a booking fee of RM799 (for the Polo JOIN and Vento JOIN), or RM1,699 for the Passat Comfortline JOIN and Tiguan JOIN via Lazada Wallet, credit card or online banking, after which they will receive a call from a Volkswagen representative for arrangements on the preferred dealership and to complete the registration and delivery of the vehicle.

Those interested can visit https://www.lazada.com.my/shop/volkswagen-passenger-cars-malaysia/.

“We were delighted to have pushed boundaries and make history with our collaboration, when 12 units of the special edition Beetle was sold out in 20 minutes on Lazada last December,” said Erik Winter, managing director of VPCM.

Volkswagen Polo ‘JOIN’ - priced at RM81,990

Available colours: Candy White, Carbon Steel Grey, Flash Red and Reflex Silver.

The Polo ‘JOIN’ comes with added accessories such as side scuff plates, trunk garnish, rear spoiler in black, side mouldings, leather seats and VW Tint worth RM7,000.

Equipped with a 1.6l 105PS petrol injection 16-Valve Multi Point Injection (MPI) engine and a 6-speed automatic transmission with Tiptronic with sport mode, the Polo 1.6l comes with a maximum torque of 153Nm available at a low 3800rpm.

The Polo 1.6l is equipped with the new RCD 340G head unit which offers a wide range of connectivity options such as USB and iPod interface, AUX-IN support, SD card slot, Bluetooth and App-Connect (CarPlay, Android Auto and Mirrorlink).

Volkswagen Vento Comfortline and Highline ‘JOIN’ - priced at RM91,690 and RM98,490

Available colours:

- Candy White and Carbon Steel Grey (Vento Comfortline)
- Carbon Steel Grey and Deep Black (Vento Highline)

Both Vento variants are offered with ‘JOIN’ accessories, which includes trunk garnish, rear spoiler, side mouldings, side scuff plates, leather seats and VW Tint worth RM7,000.

The Vento Highline is powered with the award-winning 1.2l turbocharged direct injection TSI engine with an output of 105PS. Paired with a 7-speed automatic transmission DSG (with sport mode) and a maximum torque of 175Nm, between 1,550 – 4,100 rpm, the Vento is the sedan with the highest torque in its class.

The Vento Comfortline comes with a 1.6l 105PS Multi Point Injection (MPI) and a 6-speed automatic transmission gearbox with Tiptronic function. Maximum torque is 153Nm at 3,800rpm, and fuel consumption is 6.5l per 100km.

Volkswagen Tiguan Highline ‘JOIN’ - priced at RM175,990

Available Colours: Deep Black, Pure White and Tungsten Silver.

The Tiguan is Volkswagen’s most successful SUV with over 2.8 million units sold globally.

The Tiguan JOIN comes with additional front design element, rear spoiler, trunk garnish, chrome exhaust tip, load lip protector, footboards and VW Tint worth RM10,000.

The Tiguan combines a 1.4l turbocharged direct injection TSI engine with a 6-speed direct shift gearbox (DSG) with sport mode to give an impressive output of 150PS and a torque of 250Nm between 1,500 to 3,500rpm. It boasts an impressive acceleration of 8.9 seconds from 0 to 100kph.

Volkswagen Passat Comfortline ‘JOIN’ - priced at RM188,690

Available Colours: Deep Black, Manganese Grey, Pure White and Reflex Silver.

The Passat Comfortline JOIN variant comes with aluminium sport pedals, side scuff plates, new 18” Marseille alloy wheels and VW Tint worth RM 12,000.

The Passat Comfortline is powered with a 1.8l turbocharged TSI engine, and paired with a 7-speed direct shift gearbox (DSG)with sport mode to give an impressive output of 180PS and a torque of 250Nm between 1,250 to 5,000rpm.

All JOIN models are also offered with VPCM’s Price Protection Scheme (PPS), which is also still applicable for Volkswagen cars registered before the 30th of November 2018 and while stocks last.

All Volkswagen models come with 3-years free maintenance, 5-years manufacturer’s warranty and 5-years roadside assistance.


Renault may split EV business, find partner for legacy assets

                PARIS: Renault SA is exploring a possible breakup and initial public offering of its electric vehicle assets, according to analysts, a move that would transform the French automaker laid low by its ties to Russia.

The possibility of a transformational change was outlined in broad terms by the manufacturer in February.

During a meeting last week with analysts, top managers including chief executive officer Luca de Meo and chief financial officer Thierry Pieton provided more details, including timing and the potential involvement of a partner.

"The management team continues to conduct exploratory works in view to split the company into possibly two entities,” Stifel analysts including Pierre Quemener wrote in a note.

A so-called New Mobility company made up of electric vehicles and assets from its Mobilize car-sharing unit would be separated from the legacy assets, they said.

"The CEO added that the latter could be combined with the ones of a potential partner,” the note said. "An IPO of New Mobility assets could be contemplated for 2023.”

A Renault spokesman declined to comment.

The possibility of a deep overhaul of Renault is emerging just as the company faces a crisis surrounding its longstanding business in Russia.

Renault last month signalled a retreat from its second-largest market by halting operations at its Moscow plant and saying it’s assessing available options for its AvtoVaz venture that makes the country’s top selling Lada brand.

A move to split the company would serve not only to deflect from a costly pullout from Russia, but also to raise funds for development of EVs and technology.

Renault cut its forecasts for group operating margin and automotive operating free cash flow, citing the suspension of its business in Russia.

Weighing revamp

Less than a week before Russia invaded Ukraine that triggered wide-ranging sanctions and an exodus of foreign companies, Renault said it was considering a reorganisation during an earnings presentation.

The company "is studying the opportunity to bring together its 100% electric activities and technologies within a dedicated entity in France to accelerate their growth,” it said in a Feb 18 statement.

"At the same time, Renault Group is also studying the opportunity to bring together its activities and technologies of ICE and hybrid engines and transmissions based outside of France within a dedicated entity.”

Any IPO of the EV and Mobilize assets could be led by Clotilde Delbos, deputy CEO who relinquished her role in February as chief financial officer to head Mobilize.

"All options to separate the ICE from the BEV business are on the table,” Exane BNP Paribas analysts wrote in a note, saying this could include an IPO of the EV assets or off-loading of the combustion-engine operations into a joint venture.

JPMorgan analyst Jose Asumendi also wrote about the possible split including "looking at Renault as a standalone EV entity carve out of the current group under the format of an IPO.”

Renault isn’t the only automaker to consider this type of move as a way to transition to electric vehicles with Ford Motor Co. separating its EV operations from its legacy combustion-engine business.

The new Ford Model e unit will scale up EV offerings and develop software and connected-vehicle technology and services, while Ford Blue will focus on combustion vehicles, cutting costs and simplifying operations. Ford had considered a spinoff.


MBM Resources donates RM300,000 to anti-Covid-19 cause

                KUALA LUMPUR: MBM Resources Berhad donated RM300,000 to help support the nation’s healthcare system in the ongoing battle against the novel coronavirus (Covid-19).

Channelled through the Sumbangan Perubatan Kementerian Kesihatan Malaysia, the allotted contribution will go towards the purchase of medicines, medical equipment and other medical necessities to ease the increasing weight experienced by hospitals around Malaysia.

Speaking on behalf of the company, MBM Resources chairman Datuk Dr Aminar Rashid Salleh said that the rise in the number of Covid-19 cases in Malaysia has had public hospitals working overtime and experiencing a shortage of medical supplies.

"The gravity of this situation cannot be overstated and as a socially responsible corporate citizen, it is our duty to aid the nation as much as we can."

Aminar said he and MBM  Resources thanked all medical personnel for serving the country in combating against Covid-19.

“Our heartfelt appreciation also goes to other frontliners involved in this crisis including the police, army, immigration, local authorities and others”, he added.

In compliance with the government’s Movement Control Order (MCO) and in support of a safer Malaysia, the company has suspended operations of its trading and manufacturing divisions and has extended a work-from-home directive, where applicable to the relevant employees.

During this period, the administrative office is closed. The management remains reachable at contact@mbmr.com.my.


Hap Seng Star Mercedes-Benz Autohaus opens in Bukit Tinggi, Klang

                KLANG: Mercedes-Benz Malaysia and Hap Seng Star together unveiled its latest Autohaus to date in Bukit Tinggi, offering an exclusive luxury lifestyle experiences to its customers in the Klang region.

The Autohaus serves as a one-stop auto centre spanning 49,543sq ft of showroom and amenity spaces, built on over 142,000sq ft of land.

The new Hap Seng Star Bukit Tinggi Autohaus features enhancements and upgrades to provide a luxurious retail and sales experience concept.

 Sagree (left) and Behrend.

The Autohaus has a service capacity of up to 900 cars a month, expendable in the future.

Its scheduled service maintenance and major repair works are carried out by trained and fully-equipped technicians from Mercedes-Benz.

The Autohaus is also ready to serve the brand’s Mercedes-EQ customers with 120kW DC Charger and dedicated EV charging facility of up to four vehicle bays.

Other service differentiation offerings range from Express Service 2.0, pick-up and delivery, drop-and-go service booking, wheel alignment and balancing, electrical diagnosis and repairs, paint coating, and glass tinting along with insurance and warranty claims.

Mercedes-Benz Malaysia president and CEO Sagree Sardien said the Bukit Tinggi facility is a testament of the joint commitment to redefine a luxurious brand experience for Malaysian customers at every point of their journey.

“The new state-of-the-art Autohaus features increased capacity for customer service, with digital transformation and high focus on data protection, and additional amenities for a seamless and sustainable brand experience that Mercedes-Benz can exclusively offer,” she said.

Hap Seng Consolidated Bhd group chief operating officer and chief executive of Hap Seng Group Automotive Division Harald Behrend said Bukit Tinggi is a prominent and established township.

“We want to be where our customers are, and deliver to them, the best customer services and retail experience.

“In today’s context, we are cognisant that the customer experience is equally as important as the product offering, and thus, together with Mercedes-Benz, we aim to capitalise on the immense auto business opportunities within the Bukit Tinggi region and growing it into a significant auto hub in the years to come,” he said.

The Bukit Tinggi building has also been certified with Bronze award by GreenRE certification.

Other sustainability initiatives practise include a rainwater harvesting system.

The Hap Seng Group currently operates a total of nine Autohaus which include locations in Kuala Lumpur, Kinrara, Balakong, Jalan Ipoh, Setia Alam, Bukit Tinggi, and Melaka in Peninsular Malaysia; as well as Kuching, and Kota Kinabalu in East Malaysia.

Hap Seng Group also operate a standalone Mercedes-Benz Certified Pre-owned Centre in Kinrara and a standalone Body and Paint centre in Shah Alam.


Here are 8 VW Golf GTI facts you need to know

                WOLFSBURG: It is often red, has checked seats and does not just have a sporty look – most people could tell you that much about the Golf GTI

A host of interesting stories and facts has accumulated over the past 45 years, and we have put these in print for you!

Fact 1: GTI engine with four cylinders

A GTI characteristic: it still relies on a robust, four-cylinder petrol engine to provide maximum driving pleasure. This started out in 1976 as a 110 PS injection engine, but now the new Golf GTI
unit has more than double the power – a mighty 245 PS!

The Golf 1 already went from 0 to 100kph in an impressive 9.2 seconds, while the needle on the speedometer stopped moving at 182kph. Back then, mid-range saloon cars struggled to hit the 160kph mark. Not only that: the new Golf GTI keeps pushing on until it reaches 250kph (electrically limited).

Fact 2: Unique rim design for each GTI generation

The combination of tyres and rims on a car represents the key connecting factor that ensures optimal transfer of drive performance to the road. This is particularly important for the current top of the range 300 PS GTI, the Golf GTI Clubsport, which is available with the innovative Vehicle Dynamics Manager and the new “Nürburgring” driving profile.

The optics are important too: almost 50 percent of the overall appearance for a car can be attributed to the rims. The GTI has had plenty over the decades.

Fact 3: 5,000 Golf GTIs were planned and more than 2.3 million have been constructed

Anton Konrad, then head of the press department at Volkswagen: “We were aiming for a sporty series Volkswagen with a bit of understatement. We planned to construct 5,000 of these cars that you could use to go shopping or drive on the racetrack.”

The sales department was not particularly optimistic ahead of the IAA 1975: “We won't even sell 500 of these GTIs.” And they would be proved right. Ultimately, it was not 500 Golf GTIs that were sold, but more than 2.3 million of them!

Fact 4: European aesthetics combined with comfort

Star designer Giorgetto Giugiaro created the appearance of the Golf in Turin. Herbert Schäfer, design director at the time, installed the legendary red GTI trim strip in Wolfsburg, while the iconic checked design was produced by the first woman in the Volkswagen design department – Gunhild Liljequist.

Visiting London on a journey around Britain proved inspirational for her. Black was sporty enough, but she was looking for a second colour with a powerful, sophisticated effect – and settled on red. The golf ball design for the gear knob on the 4-speed transmission was also her idea. This still graces the 6-speed gearbox in the eighth-generation Golf GTI

You also have the option of ordering the car with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission and shift-by-wire.

Fact 5: Legendary three-spoke “spittoon steering wheel”

Ready to go: the Golf GTI now has a new multifunction sports steering wheel, with touch controls, perforated leather and GTI clasp.

The Golf 1 GTI already had a three-spoke steering wheel of similar style: fans affectionately dubbed it the “spittoon steering wheel” – as the Wolfsburg logo was located in a deep recess – and it remains a collectors’ item to this day.

Fact 6: Golf GTI Cabrio? Yes, VW had that in the sixth generation

A topless Golf 6 GTI: on the Golf GTI Cabrio, the electrohydraulic system opened the soft top in 9.5 seconds, requiring 11 seconds to close it at 30kph.

With the roof closed, it was possible to reach 237kph. In the months before it was discontinued, the GTI Cabrio was even officially referred to as the “most powerful open Volkswagen”!

Of course, the Porsche 918 Spyder or the Lamborghini Huracán Spyder were the most powerful cars that the group produced, but after production of the Golf R Cabrio ceased, the Golf GTI Cabrio was the fastest car without a roof to come out of Wolfsburg.

Fact 7: 2012 heralds a meeting of two global brands – in the Golf GTI adidas

To quote the brochure: “Your personal trainer recommends 30 minutes of exercise every day. It’s lucky he didn’t tell you what to exercise with.” You had to be quick out of the blocks in 2012 to secure a Golf GTI adidas from the limited edition of 4,410.

You could then settle into one of the sports seats embroidered with the “adidas” logo, with those three famous “adidas” stripes running down the middle.

Fact 8: The first GTI to communicate

More progressive than ever: the current Golf - including the Golf GTI - is the first Volkswagen production vehicle to be equipped with Car2X communication. Other cars use a WLANp connection to warn you of impending danger, such as the end of a traffic jam or a hazardous area, in milliseconds.

The innovative Vehicle Dynamics Manager takes performance to the next level. It means that the Golf GTI is not just a sports car but also allows you to benefit from improved safety features. Side fact: a modern Volkswagen contains 10 times the amount of software you would find in an up-to-date mobile phone.


KLIMS 2018 to make big splash at MITEC, KL

Aishah delivering her speech at KLIM'18 today.
KUALA LUMPUR: Organised by the Malaysian Automotive Association (MAA), the 10-day Kuala Lumpur International Motor Show 2018 (KLIMS’18) will open its doors to the public on Nov 23 till Dec 2 at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC).

Besides new car, bike and commercial vehicle launches, the motor show will have exciting concept cars, innovative automotive products and attractions such as vehicles created by university students, exotic vehicles, the longest limousine in Malaysia and fancy customised art on bikes and vehicles.

Also, each online purchase of KLIMS’18 entrance ticket at AirAsia Red Tix is entitled to one entry of fortnightly draws with AirAsia return flights to Bangkok, Hong Kong, Bali, Taipei, Jakarta and Shanghai as well as the grand draw to Tokyo, up for grabs.
The vehicle launches will include the Malaysian debut of the Ford Ranger Raptor performance truck and a new Ford Mustang (one unit flown into Malaysia for the motor show).

Ford Ranger pick-up truck buyers at the show stand a chance to win a Ranger Raptor under the “Buy A New Ford Ranger, Win A Ranger Raptor” contest.

Another highlight is the Proton X70 sports utility vehicle, which will be making its public debut at KLIMS’18.

Five units of the first C-segment premium SUV from Proton will be displayed, and there will also be special areas to highlight the technology, safety and performance aspects of the vehicle.

Also, the new Mitsubishi Triton pick-up truck will make its Malaysian debut at the motor show.

Star Media Group is the Official Media Partner of KLIMS’18.

MAA president Datuk Aishah Ahmad takes time off to tell more about the motor show, which makes a big return after a five-year hiatus.

Q: In the previous editions, the motor show was held at the Putra World Trade Centre. Can you talk about the venue change to MITEC?Aishah: This is the biggest KLIMS ever, in terms of floor space. Exhibitors have taken up 16,053 sq metres and among the biggest exhibitors are Honda Malaysia, UMW Toyota Motor, Petronas, and Naza Group of Companies.

This time, we aim to have 350,000 visitors and we think this is achieveable as MITEC is new and state-of-the-art, designed for easy pedestrian movement.

The motor show has 74 participating companies occupying six exhibition halls spanning two levels at MITEC.

Automotive brands include CAM, Citroen, Daihatsu, DS, Ford, Grand Max, Honda, Hyundai, Isuzu, Kia, Lexus, Petronas Motorsports, Mitsubishi, Nissan, Perodua, Peugeot, Proton, Tata, Toyota and UD Trucks.

Q: What is your advice regarding commuting to MITEC? Should visitors drive and will there be ample parking space?Aishah: We have negotiated with MITEC management and parking charges at MITEC will be RM15 per entry during the motor show.

While visitors may prefer to drive, using public transport might be better as parking space at MITEC and in the vicinity is limited due to the high visitor numbers we expect.

That is why we have provided free shuttle buses and vans to MITEC.

The free shuttle buses are available at the taxi stand at the front entrance of Sunway Putra Mall; and Door A at Semantan station (MRT Sungai Buloh-Kajang Line).

The free shuttle vans are available at Tun Razak Tennis Stadium and MATRADE open air car park.

The free shuttle vans can also be hailed along Jalan Sultan Haji Ahmad Shah by visitors who choose to park their cars in the vicinity of MITI (Ministry of International Trade and Industry), Kuala Lumpur Court Complex as well as the Lembaga Hasil Dalam Negeri (Inland Revenue Board).

Q: What can visitors expect at KLIMS’18? Will there be many exotic cars, fun activities as well as vehicle price discounts and promotions?Aishah: MAA has spared no effort in promoting KLIMS’18. Besides the 20 vehicle and three motorcycle brands (Kawasaki, Honda and Benelli), we have 65 exhibitors promoting automotive accessories and services.

Most exhibitors will have attractive offers and promotions.

As for design concepts, UMW Toyota Motor is bringing in the TS030 hybrid Le Mans Prototype 1 (LMP1) sports car and FT-1 performance concept while Lexus Malaysia will display the automated-driving capable Lexus LS+ concept.

Perodua will also have a concept car.

The latest Nissan LEAF electric car will also be previewed.

Also, do check out the KLIMS’18 Suped-Up Cars zone specially brought to you by Wrap Xpert where supercars on display include Bentley GT, the Lamborghini Gallardo, the McLaren 650S, and the Cadillac Escalade 180” - the longest souped-up limousine in Malaysia.

Then we have the nostalgic cars in the Down Memory Lane section, and the latest custom-built bikes in the Art of Speed Zone.

Upcycling workshops will also be organised at 2pm during weekends for visitors.

Q: Motor shows are typically about exotic machines and shiny wheels. Is KLIMS’18 designed to also be a family or kids-friendly event?Aishah: Yes, children will also enjoy the motor show. KLIMS’18 has family and kids-friendly activities like the kids’ driving school, inflatable castles, rock painting, baby corner and music entertainment from buskers.

There will also be Meet and Greet sessions with selected celebrities during weekends from 3pm to 5.30pm - Amyra Rosli, Elizabeth Tan and Jinny Boy (Nov 24); Alif Satar and Sazzy Falak (Nov 25); Marsha Milan and Nazim Othman (Dec 1).

Also, aspiring and professional photographers can join the KLIMS’18 Photography Competition and win attractive prizes (first prize is RM1,000 cash and a gift; followed by two merit prizes of RM500 and a gift each; followed by five consolation prizes of RM100 cash and a prize each).

We also have 10 prizes of RM50 each in a Instagram Photo-Of-The-Day contest.

Q: The theme for KLIMS’18 is ‘Beyond Mobility.’ Why was this theme chosen?Aishah: When we talk about “Beyond Mobility”, we want to show the future of cars — design, technology and trends.

The automotive technology landscape is changing very fast with rapid developments in electric vehicles, new energy cars and autonomous cars.

At KLIMS’18, we want to show the latest car models in the country, and many car marques will be launching new models.

Car buyers will also enjoy attractive offers.

KLIMS’18 also has a Innovation Centre area where there are vehicle prototypes imagined, researched and developed by university students.

Universiti Teknologi Mara is bringing their Urban Intelligent Mobile Autonomous Vehicle, the nation’s first autonomous electric vehicle, to KLIMS’18.

Universiti Putra Malaysia is showcasing the Lekir, their entry for the Student Formula in the Japan Monozukuri Design Competition.

Universiti Sultan Zainal Abidin is showcasing their Smart Urban concept vehicles.

Universiti Malaysia Perlis will showcase their project named “Seri Perlis”, a retro-themed motorcycle.

Universiti Pertahanan Nasional Malaysia has an armoured vehicle, while Universiti Malaysia Pahang will show their Vehicle Global Positioning System test car.


Special car plate part of Sabah VIP protocol, says state secretary

                KOTA KINABALU: A photo showing a government vehicle with the licence plate stating “Isteri YAB Perdana Menteri” (Prime Minister’s wife) has gone viral on social media.

Sabah state secretary Datuk Seri Safar Untong said the special licence plate was a normal practice by the state for VIPs attending official functions.

These people include the PM, his wife, ministers and assistant ministers as well as their wives, he added.

“The Prime Minister’s wife did not request for such a licence plate,” he said in a statement today.

Safar said the photo was taken outside a hotel in the city recently.

He said such plates and vehicles were provided to coincide with visit schedules of these individuals and were not permanent.

The PM’s wife, Datuk Seri Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail, was in Kota Kinabalu for a function recently.


Ducati updates 2021 lineup - SuperSport 950, Panigale and e-MTBs in the mix

                BOLOGNA: Ducati has unveiled its new 2021 models starting with its electric mountain bikes before moving on to its SuperSport and its flagship Panigale V4.

The SuperSport 950, for 2021, has been revised in design, enriched with electronic equipment and gear, as well as becoming compliant with the Euro 5 anti-pollution legislation.

The aesthetic link between SuperSport 950 and Panigale V4 is now even stronger.

The front view is defined by the new full-LED headlight supported by two fins and flanked by two air intakes that widen the view.

The DRL clearly recalls the sharp luminous signature of the Panigale V4 and is made thanks to a refined opal that diffuses the light evenly.

The fairings have been redesigned to accentuate the sportiness of the bike and the fluidity of the shapes.

The air vents coming from the water radiator are inspired by the double extractor of the Panigale V4 models.

The SuperSport 950 also features a single-sided swingarm, a trellis frame fixed to the engine that acts as a stressed element to reduce weight and bulk, ergonomics with raised handlebars for greater control even with the passenger.

The seat has been revised to maximize rider comfort through greater longitudinal usability, multi-adjustable suspension, three-spoke "Y" aluminium wheels and Pirelli Diablo Rosso 3 tyres, radial master cylinders for brake and clutch and high-performance Brembo braking system with double 320mm disc for a dry weight of 184kg.

Electronics for the new SuperSport 950 sees it getting equipped with electronic controls based on information from its Bosch six-axis inertial platform that's capable of instantly detecting roll, yaw and pitch angle of the motorcycle.

The electronic package consists of Cornering ABS, Traction Control, Wheelie Control and Electronic Shifting.

The adjustment of the electronic settings, as well as the Riding Modes (Sport, Touring, Urban), is done through the menu of the new 4.3-inch full-TFT display with graphics and interface inspired by the Panigale family.

For colours, it is available in red and, for those who want a more refined chassis, the S version is available in “Ducati Red” and “Arctic White Silk”.

The SuperSport 950 S is equipped with fully adjustable Öhlins suspension and passenger seat cover.

Both will be available in Ducati dealers from February 2021 while a detuned version is also available.

In 2021, the flagship Panigale V4 and V4 S models will become compliant with the Euro 5 homologation regulations for the countries that require them with its weight, maximum power and torque levels remaining unchanged.

The electronic package that equips the Panigale V4 evolves and now includes the latest generation Ducati Traction Control which is said to be even more predictive - DTC EVO 3 with a strategy derived from Ducati Corse.

The Riding Mode strategy is also new, specifically, the Race Riding Mode has been split into two distinct mappings, allowing the rider to have two different configurations to define the best set-up based on the track and his riding style.

For 2021 Ducati is expanding the Panigale family by introducing the Panigale V4 SP version, which marks the return of the historic “SP” (Sport Production) acronym.

The Panigale V4 SP is numbered, and the number is engraved on the machined steering head.

The Panigale V4 SP - with 214 hp and 126Nm of torque and a dry weight of 173kg, has a dedicated livery and is equipped with all the technical features to enhance its qualities in track use.

This includes carbon rims, brake callipers and master cylinders, dry clutch and the same chain size (520) - all derived from the Superleggera V4.

The most important component for the improvement of the dynamic qualities is its five split-spoke carbon rims that are 1.4kg lighter than the forged aluminium ones of the Panigale V4 S to help reduce rolling inertia. This helps make the bike significantly more agile when changing directions.

The exclusive Brembo Stylema R front brake callipers ensure high braking power, as well as exceptional consistency of performance even during a long timed session without changes to the brake lever stroke.

The callipers are activated by a Brembo MCS radial-pump, which allows for rapid adjustment of brake-feel to suit the rider’s needs.

The Desmosedici Stradale of the "SP" mounts a dry clutch, which allows it to be even more effective on the track when riding to the limit, and is coupled to a final drive with 520-chain that's narrower and lighter than the one fitted to the Panigale V4 S.

The Rizoma anodized aluminium footpegs mounted on the Panigale V4 SP are fully adjustable to adapt to the ergonomics of each rider and maximize ground clearance for use on the track.

The bike is also equipped with a racing kit for track use that allows the removal of the rear-view mirrors, license plate holder and open clutch cover.

The livery of the Panigale V4 SP is inspired by the one used in the winter tests by the official MotoGP and Superbike teams, reworked by the Ducati Style Centre.

The fuel tank is in exposed aluminium, the fairings are matt black enriched with fluorescent red details and carbon components, such as the front mudguard and wings. A racing kit is also available for track use.

This includes machined from solid aluminium caps for the removal of the rearview mirrors, kit for the removal of the license plate holder, open clutch cover and includes the Ducati Data Analyzer + with GPS module.

The Panigale V4 and V4 S will be available in Ducati dealers starting from December, with the Panigale V4 SP from March 2021.

Moving into electric mountain bikes (e-MTBs) Ducati also took the opportunity to introduce its new TK-01RR e-enduro as well as show off its significant technical updates for its All-Mountain Ducati MIG-S.

The Ducati MIG-S All Mountain bike, for 2021, adopts a new 630Wh Shimano battery which guarantees an increase in autonomy of about 26%.

The MIG-S has also been revised in the geometry of the frame, with an elongated top tube and a vertical seat tube (74.7-degrees), for greater riding comfort, traction and control in the more technical passages.

The TK-01RR enduro bike here is completely new with a 630Wh EP8 Shimano battery that weighs just 2.6kg - making it one of the lightest and most compact engines in the segment while providing a maximum torque of 85Nm with a maximum servo assistance ratio of 400%.

Combined with the new Shimano E-tube Project App, the EP8 system allows advanced degrees of customization to adapt the character of the engine to its rider's needs.

The TK-01RR also features a 12-speed transmission and Shimano XT brakes along with the brand new 180mm Öhlins RXF 38 fork, fully-adjustable rear Öhlins TTX shock absorber with 170mm travel and Pirelli Scorpion S tyres that's been specifically developed for e-MTBs.The Ducati e-MTB range can already be ordered in Ducati dealers and on Ducati.com with deliveries commencing from February 2021.


Vespa Primavera Pic Nic launched from RM19,900

                PETALING JAYA: Didi Resources, the official distributor of the Vespa brand in Malaysia, has introduced the new Primavera Pic Nic.

The limited-edition Vespa comes in three colours of elegant White Innocenza, the fresh Green Relax and the gentle Grey Materia.

The Vespa comes with standard front and rear carry racks with brown straps which are functional.

The straps keep your belongings secured while you bring it along on a long journey.

Vespa Pic Nic is powered by a one-cylinder four-stroke 150cc iGet air-colled engine and equipped with electronic injection and 3-valve distribution.

The engine power and torque delivered thus is perfect for city traffic and for open roads too.

As per Vespa’s signature, the two-wheeler is completely made of steel.

The beauty of the scooter is ultimately highlighted by the chromed details of the crest, the white outlines of the shield and the white wheels.

Meanwhile Primavera Pic Nic range is equipped with 12-inch wheels, made of aluminum alloy and with a five-spoke design in white.

The scooter starts from RM19,900.


Controversial RM1.55bil highway project okayed

                KUALA LUMPUR: The controversial East Klang Valley Expressway (EKVE) project has been approved by the Ampang Jaya Municipal Council (MPAJ) albeit with several conditions in place.

Council president Abdul Hamid Hussain said the project was approved during a special One Stop Centre (OSC) committee meeting on Aug 12.

“Some of the conditions that the project developer Ahmad Zaki Resources Bhd (AZRB) must adhere to include submitting the latest Traffic Impact Assessment (TIA) study and verified by an independent body. A latest study of the Social Impact Assessment must also be submitted to the council.

“Another crucial condition is AZRB must also take into account improvements suggested by the residents in the proposed construction of the highway,” said Abdul Hamid.

He said the highway builder must also comply with approval conditions set by the Drainage and Irrigation Department, the Public Works Department and MPAJ’s Planning Department.

The approval is for Phase One of the expressway project, which is a 24.16km stretch from the Sungai Long Interchange to the Ukay Perdana Interchange.

The expressway was gazetted in the 2011 MPAJ Draft Local Plan 2020 (RT MPAJ).

At a cost of RM1.55bil, the highway is designed as a closed toll system and with five toll plazas at each of the planned five interchanges.

Once completed, the EKVE will make up the final stretch of the Kuala Lumpur Outer Ring Road (KLORR) system.

The project drew public outcry when it was made known that the Ampang forest reserve would be cut down.

The Selangor Forestry Department in February 2014 announced a proposal to degazette 106.65ha of the forest reserve for construction of the EKVE.

A proposed Phase Two of the project was cancelled as it would have cut through the Ulu Gombak forest reserve north of the Klang Gates Dam, which is a water catchment area.

It was also announced in February this year that the company had received approval from the Federal Government to start work on the construction of the highway.

 The congested MRR2 is a normal sight on a working day. Residents are worried that the EKVE will compound traffic congestion as it is an arterial road.

MPAJ councillor Ahmad Sabri Abu Bakar said the proposal was endorsed by the councillors provided the conditions stipulated were met.

“The OSC committee, which comprise various government agencies, set the conditions and the councillors were satisfied with them.

“We have no objections as long as all the conditions are met,” he said, adding construction of the highway was expected to commence soon.

Sabri, who is also councillor for Zone 5 Bukit Antarabangsa, said the developers had also agreed to upgrading works as a contribution in corporate social responsibility.

“A 0.35km stretch of Jalan AU5 will be widened while Jalan Ukay Perdana will be expanded to six lanes from the current four,” he said.

Residents of Bukit Antarabangsa in Ampang are crying foul over the state government’s and MPAJ’s handling of their objections against the construction of the EKVE.

The Bukit Antarabangsa Residents Task Force, a coalition of 32 residents associations within the enclave of Bukit Antarabangsa, Ukay Perdana and Ukay Bistari, said the various authorities had shown a lack of transparency, integrity and professionalism in addressing their concerns against the project.

The residents had earlier voiced their objections against the project for fears of compounding the traffic congestion near their houses.

They had proposed for an elevated highway that would bypass Jalan Ukay Perdana.

Task force facilitator Dr Mohamed Rafick Khan Abdul Rahman said despite several attempts to engage with Selangor Mentri Besar Azmin Ali’s office, MPAJ and its councillors, residents had been frustrated with the lack of communication.

“During a meeting organised by Malaysian Highway Authority (LLM) and attended by MPAJ, AZRB and residents on July 1, it was agreed that a copy of the TIA would be given for us to evaluate and revert back to them within 60 days. Within that time, it was also agreed that no decision would be made on the project.

“But now we find out that the project has been pushed through the OSC committee meeting and approved with conditions,” he said.

Rafick said an independent review of the TIA was conducted by the Malaysian Institute of Road Safety Research (Miros) on behalf of the task force late last month.

“Based on their findings, there were several erroneous information in the original TIA, the most glaring of which is that it was done in 2012.

“According to the guidelines, the time lapse between the dates of a TIA study and its submission should be no more than two years.

“What is even more shocking is that the original TIA was done during the Chinese New Year festive holiday (Jan 23 and 24, 2012) when the volume of traffic was significantly less than normal.

“How could the OSC and the councillors have approved the project with the incomplete information?” he questioned.

Another Task Force facilitator, Brig-General Datuk Mohd Arshad Raji said the approval of the project was a betrayal to the residents.

“We are the affected residents. How can they not have consulted nor informed us of the decision to approve the project?” he asked, adding that the residents would continue to protest against the project.


Audi opens automated driving research centre in Silicon Valley

                SAN JOSE, California: Audi will open a new Audi Automated Driving Development (A2D2) R&D office in San Jose to create Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) specifically for the North American market.

Located in the heart of Silicon Valley, A2D2 will have the flexibility to quickly develop new software and to collaborate with nearby startups for production-intent applications.

The U.S. is expected to continue its lead in terms of ADAS system capabilities based on artificial intelligence and its cloud supported development processes in the push to more advanced Level 2+ automated systems for the coming decade worldwide.

“Given the rapid advancement of driver assistance technologies in North America, it’s important to be part of the latest breakthroughs, work with leading edge of technology startups and attract the top talent,” said Frank Grosshauser, senior director, ADAS, Audi of America.

“We’re looking to bring on as many as 60 engineers to develop new functionalities, catered specifically to North American Audi customer needs.”

A2D2 is the first office dedicated to developing ADAS hardware and software specifically for North American roads and driving behaviors.

To start, A2D2 has outfitted several Audi Q7 development vehicles with roof-mounted sensor kits to collect data and help software engineers develop tools that power tomorrow’s vehicles and enhance the driving experience in an Audi.

The A2D2 development vehicles are wrapped in a QR code that links to a webpage with the latest Audi automated driving breakthroughs and developments.

Designers working in the Audi Design Loft in Malibu, California, created the unique graphics and logo specifically for A2D2.

The fleet of testing vehicles will be used for data acquisition to develop various cloud-based automated driver-assistance functions planned for introduction by 2023.


Ford may slash ad spending, revamp dealers to boost EV profit, says CEO

Farley at the launch of the F-150 Lightning in Dearborn, Michigan on April 26.
DETROIT: Ford Motor Co needs to overhaul its century-old business model - from slashing advertising spending to reworking its dealer network - if it is to earn enough profit on electric vehicles to compete with Tesla and others, the automaker's chief executive said on Wednesday.

The shift from internal combustion vehicles to EVs is "the most exciting land grab in our industry since the Model T" introduced by Henry Ford in 1908, CEO Jim Farley said at an Alliance Bernstein conference.

As the competition shifts from established players like Ford to newcomers from China and Silicon Valley, "the industry is heading to a huge price war," Farley said.

As a result, Ford is reviewing nearly every aspect of its business just months after Farley restructured the company into three units - Ford Pro for commercial customers, Ford Blue for its profitable gasoline-powered trucks and SUVS, and Ford Model E for electric vehicles.

Farley said Tesla, which was founded 100 years after Ford, enjoys a significant cost advantage that has convinced the Michigan-based automaker to consider reducing or eliminating dealer inventories of unsold vehicles and following Tesla in selling some vehicles directly to customers.

He said Ford may have "multiple tiers of dealers" and some will be more specialised as the company launches a second generation of electric vehicles in about four years.

"We have this opportunity to use our physical presence to outperform" newcomers, including tech companies, Farley said, but future standards for dealers "are going to be brutal. They're going to be very different than today."

Farley said he was "not convinced" that Ford needs to continue buying advertising, especially for popular new electric models like the F-150 Lightning, which is sold out for the first year.

The US automaker spent US$3.1 billion on advertising last year, according to the company's annual report, compared to nothing for Tesla.

"If you ever see Ford Motor Company doing a Super Bowl ad on our electric vehicle, sell the stock," he said.

On a related development, Ford said it would invest US$3.7 billion in assembly plants in Michigan, Ohio and Missouri for production of both electric and gasoline-powered vehicles.

It said US$2.3 billion of the total investment would be spent on EVs, part of the US$50 billion in EV spending through 2026 it previously outlined.

Ford officials said the company would  receive incentive packages of about US$150 million and about US$200 million from Michigan and Ohio, respectively.


Enter the Infiniti contest and win a Formula 1 car drive

                KUALA LUMPUR: Infiniti and Renault Sports Formula One have teamed up to offer lucky winners a chance of turning their dreams of driving a Formula 1 car into reality.

Two lucky winners will be rewarded with all-expense paid trip from Dec 6 –10 to the renowned Circuit Ricardo Tormo in Valencia, Spain and have a money-can’t- buy unique brand experience exclusively arranged by Infiniti Malaysia.

The winners will experience the moment of high adrenaline driving normally only experienced by Formula One drivers.

Winners will receive training in both physical and technical driving techniques and have briefs and debriefs with their race engineers before getting behind the wheel of the Formula One car.

They will then switch over to two-seater Formula 1 ride driven by the one of the team drivers.

The campaign starts from Oct 1 and ends in Nov 15; to enter, participants are required to test drive an Infiniti car at the Infiniti Center Kuala Lumpur, the Icon @ Jalan Tun Razak, snap a picture of themselves with an Infiniti car, upload the photo on the contest site and share on Facebook to get votes.

The photo with the highest votes will win.

Participants who purchase an Infiniti and register the car before the end of the campaign date will be rewarded and stand a stronger chance of winning with the votes being multiplied by 10.

Details of the contest are available on www.infiniti.com.my.


T-Rex says of Audi tech: You completed me - VIDEO

                INGOLSTADT: Here's an amusing and entertaining take on the Audi driverless technology.

In Audi-speak, the highly-automated process is known as piloted driving. The unlikely combination of the short-armed T-Rex and how Audi used it in this video to promote piloted driving is ridiculous. But if it gets the message across and sticks in the head, then the video would have done its job well, and elicited a few chuckles along the way.

Anyway, hit the play button and find out for yourself.

Audi has long researched piloted driving, and has repeatedly documented its progress in this technology with demonstrations with a driverless Audi TTS in the United States and the RS 7 Sportback at the Hockenheim racetrack in Germany. Since early this year, Audi has been demonstrating the next stages of piloted driving on public roads, such as the US highway from the West Coast to Las Vegas, on the A9 Autobahn in Germany and in urban traffic in Shanghai.

“Jack” – the internal nickname for the Audi A7 piloted driving concept technology platform – is now driving more naturally. This is illustrated by the way it confidently deals with hazardous points on the road. “Jack” now passes trucks with a slightly wider lateral gap. It also signals upcoming lane changes by activating the turn signal and moving closer to the lane marking first – just like human drivers would do to indicate their intentions.

The super brain of piloted driving is the central driver assistance controller, or zFAS. It uses state-of-the-art, high-performance processors to evaluate the signals from all sensors in real-time and create a model of the car’s surroundings. This model represents the prevailing traffic situation as accurately as possible.

 The RS7 piloted driving concept used in 2014 and 2015 trials to advance autonomous driving is on display at the 2016 Paris Motor Show.


Perodua sedan may be launched in second half of 2016

PETALING JAYA: Will the much-anticipated Perodua sedan be launched this year?
According to a May 19 Maybank Investment Bank report, it could be introduced in the second half of the year and priced from RM32,000 to RM40,000, bringing the competition to Proton Saga and its next replacement model.

A successful launch of the Perodua sedan model carries a threefold benefit to parent company MBM Resources.

Firstly, MBM supplies auto parts (i.e. seatbelts, airbags and wheels) to Perodua via wholly-owned Hirotako, 51%-owned Autoliv and 78%-owned OMI. Secondly, MBM distributes 10-11% of Perodua cars sold in Malaysia via 51.5%-owned DMM Sales. Lastly, Perodua is a 22.6%-owned associate which accounts for 90% of MBM’s bottomline.

 The Perodua GMS (global model sedan) Buddyz concept of 2013 may be the base for the production sedan.

The Maybank Investment Bank report said: "In our projection, we expect Perodua to sell 220,000 units in 2016, of which 15,000 units are attributed to the sedan model during a 5-month contribution. We expect this model to be priced around the RM32k-RM40k range, in order to compete against Proton Saga, which accounted for 40k-45k units in market size in 2015."

The investment bank said pending further information on the actual price and specifications, it is maintaining a hold on the MBM Resources stock.

It has long been speculated that the sedan would be based on a Dahaitsu model with extensive body makeover by Perodua, just as it has done with the Myvi and Alza.


Last Chevrolet Cruze in Ohio built amid GM restructuring

Employees watching as the last Cruze rolls off the assembly line at the Lordstown plant on March 6.
DETROIT: General Motors Co said the last Chevrolet Cruze rolled off the assembly line Wednesday afternoon at its Lordstown, Ohio, assembly plant, the first of five plants in North America to end production this year and ending US production of the Cruze.

Workers posted photos of the final Cruze making its way down the assembly line on social media. It came off the line around 3pm, said a GM spokesman.

The Cruze “was a good product and was built with tremendous pride by the Lordstown employees. We know this is an emotional day for our Lordstown team,” GM said in a statement.

The Lordstown plant is being idled, resulting in the loss of 1,500 jobs. Since 2017, GM cut two of the three production shifts, eliminating 3,000 jobs amid sagging demand for small cars. GM is continuing to produce the Cruze in Mexico for other markets, but not for the United States.

GM noted that over 400 Lordstown employees have accepted offers at other GM locations, and it reiterated that jobs are available at other assembly plants for anyone willing to relocate to other states.

The United Auto Workers union, which has filed suit challenging GM’s decision to end Cruze production at Lordstown, said it “will leave no stone unturned in keeping the Lordstown plant open.”

GM’s chief executive, Mary Barra, has said the final fate of the plant and whether it will reopen will be decided this summer in contract talks with the UAW.

The 6.3-million-square foot Lordstown assembly complex has manufactured more than 16 million vehicles since it opened in 1966, including nearly 2 million Cruze cars since 2010.

In November, GM announced it would idle five North American plants, including Lordstown, and cut up to 15,000 jobs.


SAIC and Haier said to unite in latest push into smart cars

                SHANGHAI: Chinese carmaker SAIC Motor Corp. and appliance giant Haier Group Corp. signed a preliminary agreement to jointly develop intelligent transportation systems and smart homes, according to two people familiar with the matter.

The duo will cooperate in areas including autonomous driving and lightweight-material development and establish a fund to invest in areas such as intelligent manufacturing, the people said, asking not to be named discussing information that isn’t public.

The agreement, signed Thursday, also involves Haier investing in a SAIC unit that will be set up to develop autonomous driving technology at Yangshan Port to the south of Shanghai, the people said, without disclosing financial details.

SAIC shares were up 0.2% as of 9:55 a.m. on Friday in Shanghai, while Haier rose 0.5% in the city and its Hong Kong-listed shares advanced 1.4%, heading for their first gain of the week.

A SAIC representative confirmed the two companies have signed a cooperation agreement and said more details will be announced in due course.

A representative from Haier wasn’t immediately available for comment.

Chinese automakers and technology behemoths are making a concerted push into electric vehicles and autonomous driving, teaming together on several projects as investors flock to the space, driving up valuations for companies that made early moves into the future of transport.

SAIC and e-commerce heavyweight Alibaba Group Holding Ltd. unveiled their IM brand EV sedan in January and are due to start taking orders next month.

Carmaker Zhejiang Geely Holding Group Co. and search-engine giant Baidu Inc. said in January they’d jointly produce smart EVs too, while smartphone maker Xiaomi Corp. said in February it was monitoring developments in the sector.

Elsewhere, Apple Inc. is being closely watched to see if it chooses a partner for a self-driving EV venture.


Rule on odd and even vehicle registration number in Terengganu postponed

                KUALA TERENGGANU: The enforcement of a rotation system based on vehicle registration numbers to limit the number of vehicles on the road across Terengganu, scheduled to begin today, has been postponed.

Terengganu police, in a statement on Facebook, announced the postponement to allow for a detailed study to be carried out first.

Terengganu police had asked the public yesterday to check the last digit of their vehicle registration number — on whether it was odd or even — before leaving the house.

The rule was slated to begin with only vehicles with an odd last digit allowed on the streets on April 1 followed by even-numbered vehicles the following day, and so on, during the second phase of the movement control order.


Lamborghini and Carbon Champagne team up

                BOLOGNA: Automobili Lamborghini and Champagne Carbon recently toasted their new partnership at the Italian super sports car brand’s Sant’Agata Bolognese factory.

Carbon Champagne was created in 2011 by Carbon CEO Alexandre Mea, a fifth-generation heir to his Devavry family Champagne house established in 1920.

His low volume, exclusive Champagne is produced using hand-processed Grand Cru and Premier Cru fruit from the family vineyard, stored in oak barrels for a depth and character of flavour, then bottled in the Carbon-crafted bottles.

The carbon wrap of the bottles is made from a 37-step process, applied in various carbon and coloured finishes, and thus protecting the Champagne from light and preserving its taste.

The ultra-premium wine, crafted in time-honoured traditions, juxtaposes with the high-tech innovation of the carbon fibre bottles. Champagne Carbon will be a partner supporting motorsports events as well as lifestyle celebrations.

Present to sign the deal were Lamborghini CEO Stephan Winkelmann and Champagne Carbon CEO Alexandre Mea. Bugatti has a similar tie-up with the French wine producer.


The virtues of the BMW 545e xDrive PHEV

                PETALING JAYA: With BMW Group Malaysia going ga-ga over plug-in hybrids, can we expect them to bring in the 545e xDrive PHEV, in 2021?

Let's wait and see. Meanwhile here are some serious specifications to consider.

When it was unveiled last month, the facelifted BMW 5 Series introduced extensive powertrain upgrades and updated plug-in hybrids.

The all-new 545e xDrive borrows its powertrain from the 745e and X5 xDrive45e.

The new BMW 545e xDrive sedan is powered by a 6-cylinder petrol engine that develops a peak output of 286PS. The hybrid architecture also employs an electric motor with a maximum output of 109PS.

The maximum torque reaches a top 600Nm which is delivered to the BMW xDrive all-wheel drive chassis, thanks to the 8-speed Steptronic transmission.

The new 545e xDrive Sedan is capable of running in purely electric mode between 54 and 57 kilometers.


New Peugeot 3008 SUV raises the bar, coming to Malaysia in Q2 2017

                The 3008 is marking out Peugeot as a trendsetter.

The compact SUV, which made its world premiere at the recent Paris Motor Show, moved into its next phase as it was paraded and test-driven by over 800 motoring journalists from around the world in the northern Italian city of Bologna.

It goes on sale in Europe this month and should arrive in Malaysia by the second quarter of 2017.

 The 3008 has lofty goals to meet.

The Malaysian delegation of 10 writers from various auto sites, magazines and newspapers arrived at the tail end of the month-long Peugeot media drive campaign to push home the message that the 3008 is a global car designed for the world and not just for Europe. The 5-seater is built to cater to the tastes of Asians as much as it is for the Western world, said Peugeot spokesman Alexis Vannier.

CarSifu was in the entourage from Malaysia to sample the SUV first-hand.

The 3008 is manufactured at Peugeot’s plant in Sochaux, France and also at its joint venture factory in Chengdu, China.

The front-wheel drive SUV is available with a 1.2-litre, 1.6-litre and 2.0-litre turbocharged engines. Transmission is either a 6-speed manual or 6-speed auto. We had the chance to try out all three engine options.  The 2.0-litre 3008 was the only diesel SUV we drove, while the other two were running on petrol. Local Peugeot distributor Nasim Sdn Bhd is expected to bring in the 1.6-litre petrol variant.

The second-generation 3008 has turned out to be a stylish product with premium aspirations and truly worthy of being called an SUV unlike the first generation model which looked like an MPV.

 The 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol 3008 will come to Malaysia. Here's how the advanced dash looks like. Route map for the media drive of the 3008. It starts from the Bologna airport to Florence and thence to the hotel resort outside Bologna city.

Vannier said Peugeot has ditched the idea of making mini and mid-size MPVs as it now believes a people carrier in a SUV bodystyle would be a better sell to customers worldwide in tune with the current SUV fixation globally. The French car maker will, however, continue to offer a large premium Traveller MPV, a joint venture model between Toyota and PSA Peugeot Citroën, announced last December.

Vannier dismissed rumours that a sportier 3008 GTi is in the works. However, he confirmed that a plug-in petrol hybrid 3008 (no more diesel hybrids as Peugeot is going where the money is) will be coming in 2019, which will allow the SUV to behave as an all-wheel drive 3008.

 A foggy morning in Bologna.

After driving the 3008 over two days outside the city of Bologna, it was easy to see why Peugeot is confident the 3008 would do well across key markets around the world.

We dare say this is a car that would make Peugeot rivals sit up and start worrying, going by its attractive design, cabin refinements and technological innovations. Imagine a digital meter cluster as standard fitment in all variants, and that’s something special that should make the SUV stand out.

In addition, the ride and handling of the 3008 is more than decent. We will delve more into that in an upcoming article.

This is also a car that offers a premium sound system from Focal as an optional factory-fitted equipment. It is available with a Grip Control Pack that includes Hill Assist Descent Control that allows the 3008 to do some basic offroading.

Let’s not forget that the 3008 is also available with the e-Kick foldable electric scooter or e-Bike foldable electric bicycle as an optional mobility solution if urban congestion gets the better of the SUV. Park the car, whip out the lightweight e-Kick/e-Bike from the boot and off you go to get past the jams.

Price-wise, Nasim is working on it but it should not deviate far from the RM154,000 asking price of the previous 3008. Nasim is also keen to load up the new 3008 with the Grip Control Pack as an additional sweetener for prospective buyers.

Suffice to say at this point that the exterior and interior of the 3008 are smartly packaged and gel together. Coupled with a favourable driving impression, Peugeot has solidified its move to go upmarket with the new 3008.

 Rowing manually through the 6-speed gears of the 1.2L petrol 3008. Media briefing before the drive from the Bologna airport to Florence. The 1.6L petrol variant stops for a break at sunset. The driver sees over the top of the small steering wheel into the digital instrumentation.


Toyota shakes up to focus on product lines

                TOKYO: Toyota  announced an overhaul of its corporate structure on Wednesday as the world's biggest-selling carmaker seeks to streamline decision-making and improve the way it manages its production as output hits record highs.

Effective April, the number of business divisions will be increased to nine from the present four, with the aim of creating a company "built around product-based rather than function-based organisations," it said in a statement.

Three new divisions will separately focus on compact, mid-size and commercial vehicles, alongside divisions dedicated to connected cars and to research and engineering.

READ ALSO: Honda in revamp mode, too Kotera.

The company will maintain its premium Lexus division, along with its two region-based divisions overseeing geographical markets, while it will also have a dedicated powertrains division.

Managing officer Shinya Kotera will become senior managing officer and will lead the company's division which oversees China, Asia, and other regions. The remaining divisions will be led by existing senior managing officers.

Kotera, 54, previously headed the company's operations in East Asia and the Oceania region.

Toyota's sharper focus on end products comes after it posted global sales of 10.1 million vehicles in 2015 and begins vehicle production using its new, standardized engineering platform, under which vehicles will share more common parts according to their size, cutting production costs by as much as a fifth.

Toyota's revamped Prius, which began production in December in Japan, is the first model produced under Toyota's New Global Architecture platform. The compact saloon will be followed by a new C-HR crossover model which was unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show this week and which will be produced in Turkey.


Nissan GT-R offers a #LegendarySalute to India

                NEW DELHI: The Nissan GT-R gave a #LegendarySalute to India, by creating the world’s largest-ever country map.

Nissan Motor India celebrates the 68th year of the Republic with a record-breaking tribute to India and its people starring the legendary Nissan GT-R sports car.

The company is set to enter the Limca Book of Records – the Indian equivalent of Guinness Book of World Records – for the world's largest-ever outline of a country map.

This was achieved by a GT-R, which carved out the approximate map of India spanning three square kilometers on the dry surface of Sambhar Lake in Rajasthan.

Nissan chose Sambhar Lake in Rajasthan as the location for the record attempt for its level and dry lakebed surface, stunning vistas and soil, which is soft enough to leave a deep impression to be captured by camera drones high above.

The Nissan GT-R's precise and crisp responses enabled the car to maneuver through the twists and turns to trace the complex proportions of India's landmass on the sandy surface in a dry section of the lake.

At the helm of the vibrant red GT-R was professional rally driver Rahul Kanthraj.

To ensure accuracy, the map was created by plotting the coordinates on a GPS device, and multiple laps were driven to approximate the actual map.

The dimensions of the map were about 3km in length and 2.8km in width, with a total outline periphery of 14.7km.

Officials from the Limca Book of Records were on site to validate the process.

Apart from its 3.8-liter hand-built twin turbo V6 engine producing 565HP, the 2017 Nissan GT-R comes equipped with ATTESA E-TS advanced all-wheel drive system.

Instead of the traditional 50/50 torque split between front and rear axles, this electronically controlled system provides up to 100 percent of available torque to the rear wheels, and can send up to 50 percent of torque to the front wheels.

This provides the steering feel and response of a rear-wheel driven vehicle, while giving the added confidence that only AWD can offer.

The Nissan GT-R was launched in India in December 2016 in its Premium Edition.

The first delivery of the supercar in the country was to Bollywood action star and Nissan Brand Ambassador, John Abraham.

The GT-R is produced at Nissan's world-class plant in Tochigi, Japan.

India's first official Nissan High Performance Centre (NHPC), in Noida, provides exclusive sales and service for the 2017 Nissan GT-R.


Pick up an Isuzu D-MAX at Perfect Livin ‘16

                PETALING JAYA: If you’ve dreamed of owning and driving one of the most economical and capable pick-up trucks in Malaysia, then come and visit the Perfect Livin Exhibition where you stand a chance to drive away with a brand-new Isuzu D-Max.

Isuzu Malaysia, the main sponsor of the exhibition, will be giving away a unit of the ultra-capable 2.5-litre 4x4 and one unit of the luxurious 3.0-litre 4x4 Safari model to the lucky winners who participate in the What’s Your Hunch? contest.

To participate in the contest, visitors simply need to purchase RM500 worth of items at the Exhibition, guess the number of fluffy pillows stuffed into two units of Isuzu D-Max at the venue and submit their answers on the official contest forms.

However, if you simply cannot resist the temptation of these multi award-winning lifestyle vehicles, then go up to the Isuzu booth and ask the sales consultants about the exclusive offer on all Isuzu D-Max and MU-X, valid only at the Perfect Livin exhibition.

 Executive director of Isuzu Malaysia, Hajime Machimura.

According to executive director of Isuzu Malaysia, Hajime Machimura, the association with Perfect Livin as the event’s main sponsor helps illustrate the versatility of the vehicle and showcase what possibilities a pick-up truck offers to urbanites.

“Urban folks are always looking for an adventure, be it off the beaten path indulging in their favourite weekend activity or on a shopping spree seeking out the latest bargains. With the versatility of a pick-up truck like the Isuzu D-Max, limitless possibilities are instantly available to every owner,” said Machimura.

With numerous class-leading features including one of the most spacious and comfortable interiors in its class and a large cargo bed designed for easy loading of hefty items, the Isuzu D-Max has proven to be a popular choice for those who rather not stifle their free spirit and live within the confines of a saloon car.

Perfect Livin, Malaysia’s premier home and lifestyle exhibition opens on April 7th at the Putra World Trade Centre (PWTC) with over 1,200 booths offering a myriad of home-shopping solutions.

It continues to the Borneo Convention Centre in Kuching from April 21st till 24th before heading to the Sultan Ahmad Shah International Convention Centre in Kuantan from May 5th till 8th and finally closing at the Setia City Convention Centre in Selangor from 3rd till 5th June.


Taxify changes name to Bolt in drive to go electric

Bolt founder Villig says it would use electric vehicles to shuttle people around. — AFP
TALLINN: Estonian ride-hailing service Taxify said last Thursday it had changed its name to Bolt and planned to roll out its new brand focused on electric vehicles in the coming weeks.

The Uber rival, which also operates via a smartphone app, said its new name reflected changes in transportation.

"Our new name 'Bolt' stands for fast, effortless movement -- exactly what the experience of getting around in a city should be, be it by car, scooter or public transport," Markus Villig, the firm's co-founder, told local agency the BNS Baltic News Service.

"It also underscores our belief that the future of transportation will be electric," he explained, adding that the company "started to outgrow parts of the brand, including the name."

"As we have 10 million new users joining each year, it means that a large part of the customers we will have in several years, will know nothing of our current brand (Taxify)," he added.

Like Uber, Bolt allows users to book rides and pay for them without using cash.

Villig said Bolt app users will not need to take any action because the service will update automatically.

He launched the tech company in 2013 when he was only 19.

Business has boomed and it now claims 25 million customers in over 30 countries, according to the company website.

Investors including Daimler, Didi Chuxing, Korelya Capital and Internet currency exchange service TransferWise co-founder Taavet Hinrikus, it says.