Audi presents pioneering technologies

                INGOLSTADT, GERMANY: Pioneering technologies from the areas of development and production were shown in an Innovation Forum organized by Audi recently.

Journalists viewed the company’s new Lighting Assistance Center, Wind Tunnel Center and various stations depicting milestones along the way to the intelligently connected factory.

“The principle of ‘Vorsprung durch Technik’ is tangible in all areas of our company,” stated Rupert Stadler, Chairman of the Board of Management of AUDI AG.

“Our employees are bursting with ideas and energy. Together, we are shaping the premium of the future with innovative, efficient and emotive automobiles from an intelligently connected factory.”

In the 120-meter-long new Lighting Assistance Center, Audi experts presented innovative lighting technologies such as matrix-laser headlights and a laser spotlight for the high beam.

In the Wind Tunnel Center, the focus was on the new Audi R8 LMS.

The racing car features extremely good aerodynamics, which are the result of intensive work and numerous tests in the wind tunnel.

“In our Technical Development, the technology of tomorrow is already being created today,” stated Prof. Dr. Ulrich Hackenberg, Board of Management Member for Technical Development.

“This is where the core values for ‘Vorsprung durch Technik’ are developed. This is where we push forward in the innovative fields of lighting, connectivity, piloted driving, engines, efficiency and sustainability.”

Audi puts innovative technologies into its cars in an increasingly intelligent production process: “Our goal is the ‘smart factory’ in which processes run semi-automatically and production equipment is intelligent. Humans and machines are coming closer together – just like the digital and the real world,” stated Audi’s Board of Management Member for Production Prof. Dr. Hubert Waltl.

At the Innovation Forum, media representatives gained a good insight into important aspects of the “smart factory.”

In the assembly process, the focus was on a robot that works hand in hand with people – without any protective fence and always at the same speed as the employees.

They also saw how experts virtually plan the new Audi plant in Mexico and analyze the Audi RS Q3 with an augmented-reality system.

In Audi’s Tooling Division, the company showed its intelligent tools, which control themselves so that precision of hundredths of millimeters can be achieved with car-body parts.

And an expert explained how a 3D printer produces metal parts with complex geometries.


Enhanced MCO in Klang Valley to stem tide of infections

                KUALA LUMPUR: An enhanced movement control order (MCO) will be imposed in most parts of Selangor and Kuala Lumpur from tomorrow until July 16, and only selected factories are allowed to operate.

Senior Minister (Security) Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob said only factories producing rice, bread, sugar, cooking oil, wheat, fresh milk, baby formula, medicine and face masks will be allowed to operate throughout the period.

He said the enhanced MCO was needed given the rise in Covid-19 cases.

“Selangor recorded an average of 1,800 to 1,900 cases daily while Kuala Lumpur has between 600 and 1,000 cases daily.

“All districts in Selangor and Kuala Lumpur recorded Covid-19 case incidents of more than 12.1 per 100,000 residents.

“R-naught in both states are still around 1.0 and do not show a downward trend.

“This is a worrying situation, taking into account the density of residents and the spread of three new variants which are much more dangerous.

“After a discussion involving various agencies and risk assessment by the Health Ministry, the National Security Council has decided to impose enhanced MCO at several sub districts in Selangor and a few localities in Kuala Lumpur from July 3 until July 16,” he said in a statement yesterday.

Ismail Sabri said all residents in the enhanced MCO areas are not allowed to leave their homes except for one person from each home who will be allowed to buy basic necessities within 10km of their homes,” he said.

“No movement outside of homes beyond 8pm, unless for emergencies or with prior approval from the police.

“Only one passenger is allowed inside taxis and e-hailing vehicles.”

However, inter-district and inter-state travel will be permitted for those with vaccination appointments,” he said.

“Those with appointments must provide proof such as via the Mysejahtera application.

“Airports and harbours will be allowed to operate as per normal.

“Public transport will also be allowed to operate at a 50% capacity.

“Only essential services such as utilities, sewage and cleaning can operate from 8am to 8pm.

Those not in the approved list of services are prohibited from working onsite.

“Employers must comply by providing leave or enforcing work from home orders,” he said.

As for restaurants, only take away or drive through services will be allowed, Ismail Sabri said.

Petrol stations will be allowed to open from 6am to 8am, however, those along highways can run for 24 hours, he added.

“Wholesale markets are allowed to operate from 12am to 6am. Pasar tani (farmers market) and markets can operate from 6am to 2pm.

“No sports, social and recreational activities are allowed throughout this period,” he said.


Polestar hunts for suppliers to make truly climate-neutral car

                GOTHENBURG: Electric-vehicle maker Polestar plans to partner with suppliers including Autoliv Inc. and ZF Friedrichshafen AG to build what it says will be a "truly” climate-neutral car.

The Sweden-based firm has signed letters of intent to work with SSAB AB on fossil-free steel, Norsk Hydro ASA on zero-carbon aluminum and autoliv on emissions-free airbags and seat belts, it said Wednesday.

Similar plans exist with Germany’s ZF on power trains and ZKW Group on electrical control systems and wiring.

The goal is to by 2030 develop a climate-neutral car by eliminating carbon from manufacturing and the supply chain - rather than planting trees to offset emissions.

"We are leveraging innovation and collaboration to address the climate crisis,” chief executive officer Thomas Ingenlath said in a statement.

The automaker founded by Volvo Cars AB and its Chinese owner Zhejiang Geely Holding Group Co. said additional suppliers, researchers and investors are welcome to join the effort.

Polestar, which plans to go public in a US$20 billion reverse merger with a blank-check firm this year, targets sales of 290,000 cars by mid-decade - a tenfold increase from last year.

Industry leader Tesla Inc. delivered more than 936,000 vehicles in 2021.


What's in a name? Just how do you pronounce Taycan from Porsche

STUTTGART: Porsche's first all-electric vehicle has a unique name - Taycan - but do you know how to pronounce it? Click on the video and you will be duly informed.

It's uncertain as to which language the name is derived from although Porsche has said it has Eurasian roots and roughly translates as “lively young horse”.

The name is apt considering the Taycan's power will come from two permanent asynchronous electric motors, one for each axle, generating a combined output of around 600hp and makes the century sprint in just 3.5 seconds with a top speed of more than 200kph.

Since we are on the subject of saying car names right, many people mispronounced the brand from Stuttgart. Here below is how to say Porsche right without embarrassing yourself.


Ford Everest scales the peaks

It looks like the all-new Ford Everest will have plenty of new and first-in-the-segment features to offer when it finally comes off the production line in a few months’ time.

At the global unveil of the production model in Beijing recently, the consensus among the Ford team implied “customer expectations fulfilled” as attributes of their latest SUV were shared with journalists from China, Asean and other countries across the Asia Pacific.

“We are meeting the needs of our customers more than ever before,” said David L. Schoch, Ford Motor Company’s group vice-president and Asia Pacific president.

“The newest member of our SUV family offers a breakthrough new vehicle that will redefine across the Asia-Pacific what our customers can expect from an SUV.

“It will enhance our popular SUV range and advance our leadership in this dynamic segment,” he said.

And there it was, looking big and tough in a striking shade of red; its aerodynamic build adding a touch of refinement and sophistication, and the bold inverted trapezoidal grille indicating its Ford heritage.

“The new Ford Everest represents an epic commitment on the part of the Ford Motor Company to meet and exceed high customer expectations,” said Trevor Worthington, vice-president, Product Development, Ford Asia Pacific.

“From the very beginning, we set aggressive targets, and with the Ford Everest, we have truly raised the bar for this type of vehicle in design and capability, with advanced technologies for a smarter, safer and more capable vehicle at a very attractive price.”

The Everest was developed from the ground up (this is not an SUV with a pick-up base, Schoch stressed) by Ford’s Asia Pacific design and product development teams, said exterior design manager David Dewitt proudly.

"It involved the most extensive research into markets and consumer preferences ever, “the most research ever conducted for a vehicle developed by Ford in Asia Pacific”, he said.

“Customers told us they wanted an SUV that balances off-road toughness with a refined, comfortable interior, and we listened.

“This vehicle reflects what the consumer wants, inside and out.”

He added that consumers would know at a glance what they’re getting – an exceptionally capable vehicle with an unmatched level of comfort.

“The new Ford Everest goes beyond anything we’ve seen before in this segment. It’s a perfect balance between functionality and aesthetic harmony, wrapped up in a package that looks equally at home in the city and at the ends of the earth.”

“Is it all about customer expectations then? What about your own expectations as a designer?” I asked Dewitt.

“I would say I met my own expectation as well as that of the customers. I would drive the vehicle myself, and I live in Australia,” he said, alluding to the vast environment of the continent where urban landscapes meld with the rugged outback, and where the SUV would take to both like a duck to water.

In fact, it was in Australia that the concept version of the Ford Everest was first shown in 2013.

When I posed the question: “How would the Everest appeal to women, bearing in mind the fact that they are increasingly taking charge of household decisions such as choosing the family car?”, it drew smiles from Schoch, John Lawler, chairman and chief executive officer of Ford Motor China, and Richard Tilley, product development director for Ford Asia Pacific and Africa.

It was obviously an unexpected question and a bemused Tilley answered without giving any specifics, only assuring that he was confident the Everest would appeal to women, too.

“It’s very good in the city and for weekend drives for the whole family,” he said.

“How would you describe customers’ expectations of their SUV?” I asked Maurizio Tocco, interior design manager for Ford Asia Pacific.

“Very challenging to achieve,” he replied.

“But we have done it. The Everest interior has a higher level of craftsmanship than you would expect from such a rugged SUV.”

We were not allowed to get inside the SUV, but from what we could see, it certainly looked posh.

“You see the stitches? They really are stitched in,” Tocco said as he pointed out the features, big and small, in the interior.

“Every detail in the Everest is refined – from the instrument panel to the luggage compartment – and crafted with a level of detail, more like a premium watch rather than a tough SUV,” Tocco explained.

“The end result is a subtle and truly exceptional experience for drivers and their passengers.”

Among the exciting features on offer in the new seven-seater SUV include:

> Advanced active safety features including Collision Mitigation System and Roll Stability Control, and segment-first features like Curve Control to help drivers stay in command even in the most challenging situations.

> An array of safety features, including seven airbags, an advanced safety cage with ultra-high-strength boron steel and first-in-class features like Emergency Assistance.

> Intelligent four-wheel drive system, an active transfer case with Torque on Demand, Terrain Management System, best-in-class ground clearance of 225mm and water-wading capability of 800mm.

> The latest generation of Ford’s in-car connectivity solution, SYNC 2, lets drivers use natural voice commands to control the car’s entertainment system, climate controls and connected mobile devices.

> Power and efficiency to go further, made possible by one of three petrol and diesel engines, mated to durable and efficient six-speed automatic or manual transmissions.

And, for parents concerned about the safety of their children behind the wheel, the new Ford Everest features Ford’s MyKey smart key technology. By programming a special key, parents can limit the vehicle’s top speed and audio volume, and encourage seatbelt use through a persistent Belt-Minder warning.

“The new Ford Everest is an exceptionally versatile vehicle, equally prepared for the everyday commute as it is for the most extreme off-road terrain,” Schoch promised.

It is going to resonate with drivers across Asia Pacific and around the world, he added. Competition from other car companies in the segment doesn’t seem to bother him.

“In Asia Pacific this year, total SUV sales alone were up 28%. Ford sales were up 78%,” he said.

The strong presence of Chinese journalists hinted at the fact that the main market would be China, where the Everest, which underwent extreme off-road testing at the Arizona Proving Ground in the United States and the Simpson Desert in Australia, will be manufactured by Ford’s Jiangling Motors Corp (JMC) joint venture at the JMC Xiaolan Plant in Nanchang, China.

For the Asean market, it will be manufactured at AutoAlliance Thailand in Rayong. The all-new Ford Everest is expected to be launched in Malaysia in 2015.

The price is not available yet, but it promises value for money, a comfortable ride, an enjoyable drive, and a sense of pride and prestige for those behind the wheel.


Road deaths and accidents drop by over 30%

                PETALING JAYA: Malaysia had cleaner air due to less traffic on the road during the movement control order (MCO).

And now, we have fewer road deaths and accidents – the number of people who were killed on the road fell by 32.7%.

Meanwhile, the number of accident cases have dropped by 36.1% during eight months in the MCO period compared to the corresponding period last year.

Between March 18 and Nov 18, a total of 248,116 cases were reported nationwide.

This is a dip, compared with the 388,015 cases reported during the same period last year.

"It is a reduction of 139,899 cases or 36.1%.

"From the total number of cases, fatal accidents amounted to 2,662 cases this year compared to 3,974 of such cases last year.

“It is 33% less this year," reveals Deputy Comm Datuk Azisman Alias in an interview recently.

The Bukit Aman Traffic Investigation and Enforcement Department (JSPT) director says while the number of cases were significantly down this year, the number of victims have increased slightly by 11.4% this year.

"A total of 11,230 victims were involved in accident cases this year compared to 10,077 last year.

"However, the number of deaths (as a result of accidents) have shown a decline of 32.7%," he adds.

In terms of states, Selangor recorded the highest number of accident cases during the MCO period with 72,815 cases followed by Johor (33,723 cases) and Kuala Lumpur (29,134), DCP Azisman says.

"Selangor recorded a reduction of 36.9% (115,440 cases in 2019) while Johor recorded 39.7% decline (55,902 cases in 2019) compared to the same period last year.

"In terms of fatal accidents, Selangor tops the list too with 491 cases followed by Johor with 395 incidents.

"For Selangor, it showed a drop of 26.8% compared to last year while for Johor it is a 41.9% reduction," he says.

States with the least accidents between March and November this year were Perlis (946 cases), Terengganu (5,683) and Kelantan (6,269).

DCP Azisman adds that for the number of deaths in fatal accidents, Selangor has the most number with 510 this year but it is a reduction of 28.2% compared to 710 deaths last year.

However, it is Johor that showed the biggest drop in deaths.

"Johor recorded a 42% decline in the number of deaths with 427 deaths compared to 736 deaths last year," he says.

Penang had the third highest road deaths, with 299 deaths recorded this year - a 30.5% decrease from 430 last year.

As for the victims, the number of fatalities were mostly from between the age of 21 and 25 with 385 deaths this year compared to 541 deaths last year, DCP Azisman highlights.

"For that age group, it is a decline of 156 cases or 28.8%.

"The second highest fatalities this year involved the 16-20 age group with 354 deaths compared to 654 last year," he adds.

It is, however, a concern that more children aged between six and 10 died in accidents this year, with 107 deaths recorded compared 91 to last year - making it a 17.6% increase.

Motorcycles contributed the highest number of vehicles involved in fatal accidents during the MCO period with 1,949, which is a 28.6% reduction followed by cars at 508 (40.7% reduction).

Given the high demand for delivery services during the MCO period, DCP Azisman says 12 deaths involving such riders were recorded followed by five who were badly injured while 48 others suffered light injuries.

JSPT personnel had to face various challenges during the conditional MCO period, including various excuses given by road users when stopped at roadblocks.

"Quite a number of Malaysians still try to travel between state or district borders in areas placed under conditional MCO.

"Among the excuses given were attending weddings, visiting an ailing family member or visiting parents.

"Such road users will face problems if they don't have police permission to travel inter state or inter district," he says.

The lack of understanding on conditional MCO is also a challenge for traffic police personnel, he adds.

"It could be that their understanding of conditional MCO regulations is not that clear.

"Traffic police personnel have to explain to them on the regulations, including the ban on inter state and inter district travels," he says.

JSPT personnel, similar to other frontliners are also vulnerable to getting infected despite all personnel following strict standard operating procedures (SOPs), DCP Azisman points out.

"Whenever we encounter road users be it at roadblocks or other circumstances, there is no way to ascertain whether the road users are with symptoms or otherwise.

"We also hope that road users will wear face masks when talking to police personnel especially at roadblocks," he adds.

DCP Azisman reminds people to stay at home during recovery or conditional MCO if they have no urgent matters to attend to.

"Staying at home will lessen the number of vehicles on the road, thus reducing the accident rate.

"Road users should always drive or ride carefully while abiding by all the rules and regulations," he says.


Fuel prices up after dropping for 5 weeks

                PETALING JAYA: Fuel prices will go up across the board after five weeks of declining prices.

RON95 will be priced at RM1.93 per litre (+ 4 sen), RON97 at RM2.19 (+ 4 sen) and diesel at RM1.91 (+ 7 sen).

This was announced on RTM1 and posted on the Domestic Trade, Cooperatives and Consumerism Ministry's Twitter account on Wednesday evening. The prices are valid from July 6-12.

The weekly fuel pricing mechanism came into effect in April this year.

Prices of petrol and diesel had been placed on a managed monthly float system since Dec 1, 2014 following the removal of fuel subsidies.


MOS Syntec ES engine oil caters to bikes 500c and above

                PETALING JAYA: Motor Oil Specialist (MOS) recently launched its newest engine oil, Syntec ES designed for motorcycles with 500cc engine capacity and above.

This new engine oil is said to offer optimal engine protection and performance for such motorcycles.

This engine oil is suitable for any adventure, sports or street motorcycle at an affordable price, according to MOS.

It said Syntec ES meets the latest standards issued by the American Petroleum Institute, offering high thermal resistance to protect the engine.

The engine is further protected from high wear and tear from harsh motorcycle engine operation, it added.

The Syntec ES product range is available in mineral, semi-synthetic and fully-synthetic forms.

MOS, a Malaysian company established in 1997, specialises in lubricants for the automotive, industrial, agricultural and marine markets.

Syntec ES was added to MOS' line of products from its factory in Sungai Buloh, Selangor after extensive market research on this segment of the motorcycle market.

Go to www.mos.com.my for more information on Syntec ES engine oil. Alternatively, call Nigel Logan at 012-3107828.


Tesla raises China-made Model 3 prices after EV subsidies cut

                BEIJING: Tesla Inc raised prices for two China-made Model 3 variants after authorities cut subsidies in the world’s biggest auto market.

China cut subsidies on electric vehicles, effective April 23, but will have a three-month transition period.

The starting price for the Shanghai-made Standard Range Model 3 sedans is 303,550 yuan (RM188,000) after receiving subsidies, up from 299,050 yuan (RM185,000), while Long Range Model 3 cars, which Tesla plans to roll out from June this year, are now priced at 344,050 yuan (RM213,000) versus 339,050 yuan (RM210,000) earlier, a Tesla China company website shows.


All-new BMW X4 to debut in Geneva

                MUNICH: The all new BMW X4 Sports Activity Coupe which emphasizes on sportiness and expressive design, will have its world premiere at the International Motor Show in Geneva in March 2018.

The exterior design of the all-new BMW X4 shows off its powerful agility and self-assured presence. The extravagantly styled and dynamically stretched lines adds an eye-catching athletic stance to the BMW X model family.

The second generation X4 his now bigger than before with an increase in length (+81 mm), width (+37 mm) and wheelbase length (+54 mm) compared with the outgoing model.

The interior boasts a modern, premium feel with the trademark blend of robustness and high-class elegance. The cockpit is designed for the driver in typical BMW fashion and includes redesigned sports seats and knee pads.

The new X4 will be available in xLine, M Sport X and M Sport variants.

And for the first time, customers have the exclusive options from the BMW Individual portfolio, allowing a vehicle configuration to be closely tailored to the customer’s personal style.

The X4 will consist of a broad range of engines featuring three petrol and three diesel units and power outputs between 184hp and 360hp. And the transmission consists of an eight-speed Steptronic and BMW xDrive intelligent all-wheel drive now comes standard on all models.

If that's not enough power for you, then there are two BMW M Performance models - the X4 M40i and X4 M40d - which boast phenomenally powerful engines, plus model-specific design and equipment features.

The new X4 claims to have superior driving dynamics courtesy of the extensively upgraded and lighter chassis technology tuned specifically for the X4.

The vehicle weight is now lowered by up to 50kg compared to the outgoing model the aerodynamics are impressive too with a drag coefficient (Cd) of 0.30.

It will also feature the latest version of the iDrive operating system and intelligent voice control fitted as standard while Control Display with touchscreen functionality and BMW gesture control will be available as options.

Finally, the new X4 has state-of-the-art driving assistance systems enhance comfort and safety. Customers can opt for the Driving Assistant Plus including Steering and lane control assistant plus Lane Keeping Assistant with side collision protection.

The first-generation X4 contributed significantly to the continuously increasing market success of the X models as it combined robust all-round qualities with the sporty elegance of a BMW coupé. It succeeded in arousing the enthusiasm of new target groups for the unique driving pleasure offered by a X model.

Meanwhile, BMW achieved a milestone at the rollout of its 200,000th X4 today at its US plant in Spartanburg, South Carolina. The white SUV will be delivered to a customer in Asia.

Production of the first-generation X4 is scheduled to end next month. The X4 has been built at the Spartanburg site since 2014.

READ MORE: CarSifu test-drives first-gen BMW X4 The 200,000th X4 of the outgoing generation is heading to a customer in Asia.


Rolls-Royce's Spirit of Ecstasy figurine redesigned for electric Spectre

                LONDON: Rolls-Royce is coming out with a reshaped Spirit of Ecstasy figurine for the Spectre - its first electric car.

The BMW-owned luxury automaker said the mascot is now lower and has a more dynamic stance.

It stands 82.73mm tall, compared to the predecessor’s 100.01mm. Her robes, which flow behind her in the slipstream – often but erroneously characterised as "wings" – have been subtly reshaped to make them more aerodynamic and realistic.

The most visible change is her stance. Previously, she has stood with her feet together, legs straight and tilting at the waist. Now, she is braced for the wind, one leg forward, body tucked low, her "eyes" focused ahead.

These changes are part of the overall move to make the Spectre aerodynamic.

The earliest Spectre prototypes have a drag coefficient of 0.26, making it the most aerodynamic Rolls-Royce ever created. The figure is expected to improve during the product’s testing this year.

In a break from the past, the new figurine was digitally sculpted by a computer modeller as opposed to being handmade.

Changes to the Spirit of Ecstasy have been made throughout her 111-year lifespan. She has been cast in various sizes and materials and, briefly, in a kneeling position.

It was registered as the intellectual property of Rolls-Royce on Feb 6, 1911.

The new version created for Spectre will appear on all future models. The current design will still be used on Phantom, Ghost, Wraith, Dawn and Cullinan and their Black Badge alter egos where applicable.

In conjunction with the revised iconic figurine, Rolls-Royce has announced the jury for the Spirit of Ecstasy Challenge.

The contest under the Rolls-Royce art scheme called Muse is calling for young artists to place the Spirit of Ecstasy in a different context beyond her current position on a Rolls-Royce bonnet.

For each edition of this biennial contest, a global panel of judges would pick a medium for the contestants to create their interpretation of the figurine.

For the first edition, that medium is textiles. The jury members are: Anders Warming, Director of Design, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars; Yoon Ahn, Creative Director of Ambush and Jewellery Director at Dior Men; Tim Marlow, Director and Chief Executive of the Design Museum in London; and Sumayya Vally, Principal of South African architectural practice, Counterspace.

Three finalists will get the chance to visit the Rolls-Royce headquarters in Goodwood, West Sussex, where they will meet the marque’s craftsmen, before completing their creations.

The final works will be unveiled later this year before proceeding on a global tour – including to Rolls-Royce showrooms.


Volvo to provide vehicles for Didi’s self-driving test fleet

                BEIJING: Volvo Cars will provide hundreds of XC90 SUVs equipped with driverless technology to Didi Chuxing’s test fleet of robo-taxis, hoping it’ll pave the way to potential mass production.

The cars will be the first to integrate Didi’s new self-driving hardware platform, DiDi Gemini, to be deployed in Didi’s ride-hailing network, the Chinese company said Monday in a statement.

The Swedish-made vehicles are equipped with a number of backup systems such as steering and breaking, enabling them to be activated for autonomous driving once other parts of the technology are ready.

“The vehicles we now deliver will be fit for operation without a driver, whenever the software and sensor sets will be capable of that,” Volvo Cars’ head of strategy Alexander Petrofski said in an interview.

Like the rest of the industry, Volvo has tempered its ambitions on rolling out self-driving vehicles, and investors have grown sceptical of the arrival of robo-taxi fleets following delays and crashes. The technology is still attracting supporters however.

Self-driving startup Cruise LLC, backed by General Motors Co., last week raised US$2.75 billion from investors including Walmart Inc. to take its valuation to more than US$30 billion.

Volvo has pushed back a plan to offer autonomous driving in some settings by at least a year to 2022, as it readies new vehicle underpinnings that’ll support self-driving technology.

“The functionality, software and algorithms required all rely on data, and the database will gradually grow over time,” Petrofski said. “Unfortunately it will not be possible for us to flip a switch and activate it globally, but we see a scenario where we gradually activate this with more use cases and more regions.”

Beijing-based Didi, which is the largest investment in SoftBank Group Corp.’s portfolio, is planning to raise as much as US$500 million for its self-driving unit as it’s preparing for a public listing that could happen as early as this quarter. The company began testing autonomous vehicles in 2016 and aims to have more than 1 million self-driving taxis in operation by 2030.


BHPetrol Merdeka contest winners get gold coins

                PETALING JAYA: BHPetrol presented a special Limited Edition 999.9 gold coins worth RM4,000 each to the 60 winners of its 60th Merdeka anniversary contest at a prize giving ceremony in KidZania Kuala Lumpur today.

Winners got the gold coins which were specially embossed with BHPetrol’s signature service station and 60th Merdeka motif.

The contest was held from May 15 to July 31 and open to customers who pumped a minimum of RM30 of petrol or Euro 5 diesel.

They were given a tissue box which contained an entry form. More than two million entries were collected for the contest.

In presenting the gold coins to the winners, BHPetrol managing director K.T. Tan said contest was part of the company’s efforts to reward loyal customers and to celebrate the 60th Merdeka day.

Also present at the prize giving was BHPetrol general manager (Supply, Retail and Government Public Affairs) Azizul Azily Ahmad.

The company’s previous gold coin contest was held 10 years ago during the 50th Merdeka Day celebration.

The company also announced that it has tied-up with Touch N Go to provide a free RM3 E-voucer with every RM50 reload at BHPetrol outlets. The promotion runs from Aug 30 to Sept 30.

Among the prizes worth up to RM50,000 up for grabs were petrol, and Touch N Go cards, watches and SmarTags.


Hyundai reveals all-new 2022 Tucson SUV for the US market

                LOS ANGELES:  Hyundai unveiled on Monday its new Tucson SUV to US media in West Hollywood, California.

The all-new Tucson design is derived from a series of Hyundai Design Center concepts expressing its evolving "Sensuous Sportiness" global design identity. Tucson gasoline and hybrid models will begin availability for the US market in spring 2021, with plug-in models available in summer 2021.

The new 2022 Tucson internal combustion models will be produced at Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Alabama (HMMA) and Ulsan, South Korea.

As part of Hyundai’s growing N brand, Hyundai is developing an N Line version of the Tucson to appeal to enthusiast buyers, with a more aggressive exterior appearance and interior details. N Line will be coming later in 2021 with full details provided closer to that timing.

“Our new Tucson represents the future of Hyundai’s full-spectrum eco-powertrain approach, offering internal combustion, hybrid and plug-in hybrid models in a high-volume compact SUV. With all-wheel-drive capability now added to new hybrid SUV platforms, customers no longer need to choose between all-road, all-weather capability and outstanding efficiency,” said Thomas Schemera, executive vice president, head of Product Division at Hyundai Motor Group.

Exterior design

The SUV exterior uses what Hyundai designers call "Parametric Dynamics" with kinetic, jewel-like surface detailing that emphasises Tucson’s distinct identity in a crowded SUV segment.

Tucson’s integration of technology and design is evident in innovative half-mirror type daytime running lamps (DRLs) that are assimilated within the parametric grille and only visible when illuminated.

Tucson’s side profile conveys an impression of powerful forward motion. The long hood and level roofline coupled with a long wheelbase and short overhangs reflect a ready-for-anything dynamic character.

Crisp geometric angles and edges create a striking contrast between a sleek silhouette and masculine wedge lines. The chrome line beginning from the side mirrors follows the arc of the roofline with increasing width and subtly conveys speed as it reaches the C pillar.

The kinetic design theme carries over to the rear, where the full-width tail lamp incorporates half-concealed triangular shapes that are clearly visible when illuminated, echoing the DRL theme in front.The Hyundai logo is elevated and integrated into the glass, and the rear wiper is concealed beneath the rear spoiler.

INTERSPACE Interior

Tucson’s interior, or "INTERSPACE", offers sensuous, multi-layered forms that provide a feeling of openness and serenity. This is a place where space, technology and information seamlessly blend.

The broad ridge of the dashboard blends consistently with the doors, wrapping around front occupants like a geologic gorge, while a vertically oriented, fully integrated center fascia descends to the console like a waterfall.

Twin silver garnish lines streaming from the center fascia to the rear doors harmonize neatly layered surface materials in complementary, neutral tones. Ambient mood lighting is adjustable to 64 colours in 10 levels of brightness.

The interior offers three new technologies, including a 10.25-inch full-touch screen exempt of hard buttons, a hoodless digital gauge cluster, and multi-air ventilation, a temperature-adjusting system providing diffused airflow on the front passengers. This indirect, diffusing ventilation system reduces potentially unpleasant airflow and is unique in the automotive industry.

These features create a high-tech, fresh and exciting ambience, with cushioned materials on high-touch areas, various material applications based on the frequency of interface, and a premium overall presence. Tucson’s second-row seats feature fold-and-dive functionality for easily optimized reconfiguration capability between passengers and cargo.

For extra convenience, a release lever for this function is also located in the rear cargo area.

The new Tucson for the US only offers the long-wheelbase version of the global platform, which is longer, wider, taller, and has a longer wheelbase than the previous generation. Moreover, passenger volume increases by 170 litres, to 3,063 litres, and cargo volume has increased by 218 litres, to 1,095 litres.

Diverse Smartstream engine line-up

The new Tucson offers both a Smartstream 2.5-litre, direct-injected and multi-port-injected gasoline engine as well as 1.6-litre, direct-injected, turbocharged hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains.

The Smartstream 2.5-litre engine, with high-efficiency combustion, cooled EGR and an optimised ITMS cooling system, boasts 187hp at 6,100 rpm and 241Nm of torque at 4,000 rpm, with a targeted combined fuel economy of 28 mpg with front-wheel drive.

This 2.5-litre engine couples to an 8-speed automatic transmission for high efficiency and acceleration.

Hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains

Tucson’s hybrid and plug-in hybrid models focus on a balanced combination of fun-to-drive performance coupled with excellent economy.

The Hybrid powertrain 1.6-litre turbocharged gasoline engine produces an estimated 177hp and 265Nm  of torque, with an estimated 226 total system combined horsepower. The hybrid powertrain also produces an estimated 350Nm of torque from the combined hybrid powertrain, with a 44.2 kW electric motor and a 1.49 kWh battery pack.

The Hybrid powertrain delivers this abundant power through an HEV-tuned six-speed automatic transmission for smooth, quiet and efficient performance. Combined, this hybrid powertrain is 30 percent more fuel efficient than the standard gasoline engine, with 20 percent more torque for effortless daily driving. This superb efficiency also provides for over 800km of range before refueling for greater driving convenience.

Plug-in Hybrid models feature a high-output 1.6-litre turbocharged, direct-injected hybrid powertrain coupled with a six-speed automatic transmission. The Plug-in Hybrid battery is larger than the hybrid battery, with 13.8 kWh of power, yielding an estimated all-electric range of 44km and estimated fuel economy of over 70 MPGe.

PHEV level-2 charging capability takes less than two hours to recharge the system, using a 7.2kW on-board charger. The Plug-in Hybrid powerplant delivers power through a PHEV-tuned six-speed automatic transmission for smoothness and efficiency.

Both these new powertrains use cutting-edge engine technology in the form of Continuously Variable Valve Duration (CVVD). This innovative new valve duration technology continually optimises valve opening duration for optimal power, efficiency and emissions with minimised compromise in key measures of engine performance.

For the first time in a Hyundai SUV, hybrid and plug-in hybrid models will also offer standard HTRAC AWD capability to meet the needs of eco-focused buyers with specialised modes for greater adaptability to terrain and weather conditions, including Snow mode.

e-Handling driving dynamics

The driving performance goal for the Tucson was to create a more pure sense of connection between the vehicle and the driver. Driving dynamics match the sporty exterior design, and the handling package is improved, so the new Tucson is even more agile than the previous generation.

The suspension has been refined in conjunction with e-handling systems to minimise traditional compromises between sporty handling and superb ride comfort.

Tucson hybrid models feature Hyundai’s e-handling technology, which precisely applies electric motor torque control according to dynamic inputs and road conditions to improve cornering performance for a new level of fun-to-drive dynamics.

As the Tucson hybrid turns-in to a corner, the electric motor system applies precise incremental braking force to the front wheels, increasing their tyre contact patch on the road surface for enhanced traction and steering response while initiating turn-in.

Then, as the vehicle moves to exit the corner, the electric motor applies precise torque to the rear axle, increasing the rear tyre contact patches for enhanced traction and control accelerating out of the corner.


VW's top new ID4 electric is an all-wheel-drive GTX with 480km range

                BERLIN: VW has announced plans to launch a more muscly top version of its ID4 electric SUV this summer and instead of GTI or GTE, it will bear a new GTX badge and add a second motor for more horsepower, according to Volkswagen

In addition to the 204-horsepower motor in the rear, there's a second electric motor on the front axle, turning the GTX into an all-wheel drive electric while also boosting system output to 299hp.

This allows the ID4 GTX to accelerate from 0 to 100kph in 6.2 seconds and while the normal ID models peak at 160kph, the GTX is electronically limited to 180kph, according to the manufacturer.

The power for this is supplied by a 77 kWh rechargeable battery that promises a range of up to 480km (WLTP).

In addition, the GTX has a modified set-up for suspension and steering as well as the option of a sports suspension with adaptive dampers, progressive steering and reduced ground clearance.

VW has also subtly modified the design, emphasised the basic colour of the bodywork and fitted a few darkened add-on parts.

Volkswagen says the GTX badge will drive up the price of the ID4 to at least €50,415 (RM251,000) in its European home market.


Prius owners in Japan offered upgrade service

                TOYOTA CITY: Toyota announced last week that it has started offering an upgrade service in Japan that allows customers to upgrade their cars as part of its efforts to enhance car value.

The service is available for the Prius U Grade.

Toyota has been offering retrofitting of new equipment that was not installed at the time of purchase through Kinto Factory scheme.

This new upgrade service enables retrofitting of safety and security devices and functions previously unavailable, such as the Advanced Park feature of the Toyota Teammate advanced driving support technologies, to cars equipped with "Upgrade Ready Design".

Upgrade Ready Design allows future devices and functions to be retrofitted by anticipating the work required for upgrades at the development stage and designing systems in advance that can significantly reduce the time required.

In addition, seven items such as a Blind Spot Monitor, Panoramic View Monitor, Parking Support Brake (rear pedestrian detection), and Steering Wheel Heater can now be retrofitted individually as upgrade menu options.

Toyota said it would expand the upgrade menus to extend the usefulness of its cars. Future upgrades could include large-screen display audio, heated seats, seat ventilation and synthetic leather seats.

Applications for the upgrade service are accepted through the Kinto Unlimited smartphone app.

Rates are standardised nationwide, and there are two payment options: a lump-sum payment or an addition to the monthly subscription fee.


Ford SYNC 3 recognises handwritten Chinese

                SHANGHAI: With SYNC 3, Ford’s next generation in-car media and navigation system, the Ford Mustang can understand handwritten Chinese characters inputted with a swipe of the finger.

With enhanced voice recognition technology, SYNC 3 also recognizes voice commands in Mandarin Chinese.

Previously, inputting Chinese characters on an in-car touch screen would require typing in pinyin (phonetic spellings of Chinese words using the alphabet) and then selecting one of multiple characters, all of which have analogous pronunciations, in order to enter a command or search for a destination.

Even with predictive technology, this process can be slow and less intuitive for the driver, and doesn’t suit people – usually older Chinese – who have difficulties using pinyin.

“The Chinese version of SYNC 3 is far more than just a translation of a global technology,” said Fisher Xu, SYNC Supervisor for Ford Asia Pacific.

“For instance, when you talk to a friend in China and they ask where you are, they’re really looking for a building name or a point of interest, not a street number. That’s probably different to other parts of the world, and SYNC 3 is smart enough to know this local preference, seamlessly.”

Mustang, the top-selling sports coupe globally and in China, can now recognize Chinese handwriting through Ford SYNC 3 in-car entertainment, connectivity and navigation system.

Ford’s multi-modal handwriting feature allows users to scribble characters by hand, and instantly recognizes each stroke of the character as it is made, by tracing it and turning it into a typeface.

With more than 2,500 commonly used characters in the Chinese language and a wide range of different writing styles and habits, it leverages automatic association technology based on a large database of characters and fuzzy search algorithms to save users time and increase accuracy.

SYNC 3 can also decipher Chinese characters written at angles of up to 15 degrees.

This means that after a driver is buckled up and about to pull out of a parking space, they can lean over and comfortably handwrite any address or point of interest.

Or, while they’re driving, their front seat passenger can lean across and scribble, and the system understands that just as easily.

After the system finds the address, the driver or passenger can zoom in and out on the map just by pinching the 8-inch screen, just as they would on a smartphone.

The all-new, all-American muscle car was introduced in Asia for the first time in 2015, to coincide with the pony car’s 50th anniversary.

Sales in China have continued to grow, jumping 45 percent in of 2016, making it the country’s best-selling sports coupe.

In addition to Mustang, SYNC 3’s Chinese handwriting feature is now available in several different Ford nameplates sold in China, including the Focus and Taurus Limited Edition passenger cars, and the Edge, Kuga, and Explorer SUVs.


Fiat reveals that Fifi is the most popular name for Fiat 500

                LONDON: In honour of the reveal of the British royal baby name, Fiat has announced the five most popular names for the Fiat 500 based on personalised name sticker orders: Fifi tops the list.

Earlier last week, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex announced that their little boy's name has been selected: Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor. To celebrate, Fiat did some research of their own and discovered that the Fiat 500's most popular name choice is Fifi.

This fact was determined based on which names were requested most frequently for the free personalised name stickers that the company offers to Fiat owners. Fifi came in first, followed by Bella, Luigi, Minty, and lastly Freddie.

Mopar service, parts, and customer care director John MacDonald commented on the popularity of the name stickers stating that "The fantastic response we had from owners shows how the Fiat 500 is so much more than a car to its owners, it becomes a member of the family."

Fiat 500 owners can order their own name sticker until the end of June. MacDonald predicts that, in response to the naming of the royal baby, the popularity of Archie is going to be on the rise.


Malaysian car buyers favour online research to showroom visits, says Google

Day presenting data on car buyer trends to the press today.
KUALA LUMPUR: The process of buying a car in Malaysia today starts behind the computer as buyers visit fewer showrooms before making their choice, said Google Malaysia head of marketing Jon Day.

He said that a recent study by Google and TNS Research revealed that 86% of Malaysians looking to buy a car start with online research. Day said that more than 75% of Malaysians are online and are quite savvy with their searches – how they search and what sites they visited.

Because of this, Day said, Malaysians are visiting fewer dealers because of all the information on brands and models available online. "At the end of the day, they are going to be visiting two to three dealers compared to three to four in 2013," he said during a press briefing held by Google Malaysia on Thursday.

According to Day, car companies need to be aware of online trends among Malaysian car buyers to draw them to their showrooms and ultimately to sell their cars. Beyond price, he said Malaysians generally choose functionality over design, adding that this included fuel mileage and seating capacity.

He added that after-sales service provided by car companies and the resale value of the car were also important. Engine and overall performance are considered further down the line and were less important to Malaysian buyers, he noted.

The data was derived from surveys of recent car buyers and those looking to buy cars, as well as analysis of online search queries.


German car makers warned of possible battery materials shortage, says paper

                FRANKFURT: The German car industry risks running short of key raw materials for automotive batteries, hampering a planned boost in the production of electric vehicles (EVs), Germany’s largest industry association BDI warned.

“The risk of running into bottlenecks in raw material supply is increasing because demand is growing faster than production capacity,” Matthias Wachter, head of security and raw materials at the BDI was quoted as saying by Sunday paper Welt am Sonntag.

“Without sufficient supplies for instance of cobalt, graphite, lithium or manganese there won’t be any future technology ‘made in Germany’,” he added.

Demand for these materials is expected to soar as carmakers rush to embrace EVs in response to governments around the world cracking down on pollution.

German carmaker Volkswagen said it is pushing to secure long-term supply contracts to avoid material shortages as it aims to invest 34 billion euros (RM167bil) in battery-powered cars by 2022 to challenge Tesla.

Daimler’s Mercedes brand plans to offer an electric version of every model it sells by 2022, while rival BMW, a pioneer in electric cars with its i3 model, has vowed to achieve mass production by 2025 with 12 fully electric models.

Recycling companies such as Belgium’s Umicore or US group Retriev Technologies are preparing to extract metals from old batteries so they can capitalise on an expected shortfall in materials.


Range Rover Velar 2.0L R-Dynamic gets enhanced interior

                PETALING JAYA: The refreshed Range Rover Velar 2.0L R-Dynamic has arrived, featuring some interior enhancements.

It is priced from RM612,207.74 (excluding road tax, registration and insurance but with 50% SST exemption)

Apart from interior revisions, the Driver Assistance Systems have been improved and the SUV now comes with electronic air suspension that is standard in the 3.0-litre supercharged V6 petrol Velar.

While the exterior remains unchanged, noticeable interior changes include a new toggle shifter and a new steering wheel design with integrated smart buttons and hands-on wheel detection feature.

It also comes with innovative features that enhances the experience of everyone on board, including the premium cabin lighting, 10-inch dual touch screen, a 12.3-inch Interactive Driver Display, and a coloured Head-up Display.

Driver Assistance Systems have been upgraded with a 3D Surround Camera that provides the driver with a 3-dimensional view around the Velar which makes manoeuvring across different terrains easier – displaying several views simultaneously including a 3D perspective view plan from above and ClearSight Ground View.

Inspired by the latest mobile devices, Pivi Pro, Jaguar Land Rover’s all-new infotainment system is customisable to display information that is most relevant to the driver and can be directly accessed in two taps or less. Users can also connect two smart phones at once so driver and passenger can enjoy hands-free connectivity without having to swap connection.

Another new feature that comes with the Velar is the Active Road Noise Cancellation (ARNC) system. It comes standard with the Meridian Sound Systems that works just like a pair of high-end noise cancellation headphones to deliver a quiet and more refined cabin experience.

The Electronic Air Suspension with an automatic access height changes the vehicle‘s height quickly to keep all four wheels on the ground, even on the most uneven surfaces.

This makes entering or loading heavy objects into the Velar easier and convenient. The vehicle’s height can be altered by +/- 50mm to suit the user needs using the 10-inch touchscreen, key fob or control buttons in the loadspace area.

In addition, the air suspension’s ride height drops by 10mm to improve the aerodynamic drag thereby improving fuel efficiency when cruising above 105kph.

Wade Sensing, which is unique to Land Rover models is now available with the latest Velar. The system uses ultrasonic sensors in the exterior mirrors to visually show via the touchscreen and audibly alert the driver if water approaches the vehicle’s wading depth.

Maintaining the same P250 powertrain, the Velar produces 249 PS and high maximum torque of 365Nm, available from 1,300rpm and 4,500rpm.

The 2.0-litre turbocharged Ingenium petrol engine is matched to a smooth-shifting ZF eight-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive with Intelligent Driveline Dynamics.

The Velar is made at the company’s Solihull plant, 180km north-west of London.

All Land Rover vehicles come with Land Rover Care programme which includes a five-year warranty, five years’ free service and three years’ roadside assistance.


Carsifu's top picks at 2018 Thailand International Motor Exposition

                BANGKOK: The Thailand International Motor Exposition 2018 recently kicked off with futuristic concept cars and more than 20 new model unveils that will leave residents of the 'Kingdom' spoilt for choice.

One of the highlights of the expo was the unveiling of the Rolls-Royce Cullinan - the British ultra luxury carmaker’s first all-wheel driven sport utility vehicle (SUV), with its bespoke offerings of 44,000 exterior colours, personalised cabin interiors and recreational modules to suit the owners’ lifestyles.

Powering the Cullinan is a 6.75-litre N74B68 twin-turbocharged V12 petrol BMW engine that is paired to an eight-speed automatic to manage the rated output of 563hp at 5,000rpm and 850Nm of torque from 1,600rpm for its permanent all-wheel drive system. Top speed has been electronically limited to 250kph.

All that sits within an aluminium space frame chassis, which is a version of the company's modular “Architecture of Luxury” platform.

Driving prowess is bolstered by a four-wheel steering system that is connected to a self-levelling air suspension system made up of double-wishbone front and five-link rear axles, electronically controlled front and rear dampers and electrically-actuated active anti-roll bars.

To enhance comfort levels, the SUV comes with “The Flagbearer”, which uses stereo cameras integrated into the front windscreen to scan the road ahead and adjusts the suspension according to what it ‘sees’ at speeds of up to 100kph.

Moving on to the Porsche showcase and there sat the newly-minted Macan SUV which made its world premiere in Shanghai, China before being officially launched in Europe in October.

The facelifted Macan boasts of new design elements, extended equipment and added features that include full connectivity options and a modified turbocharged petrol engine.

Although the Macan’s 252hp / 370Nm 2.0-litre turbocharged engine stays its output Porsche officials stated that the combustion chamber's geometry has been improved on, while maintaining its marriage to a seven-speed PDK dual-clutch gearbox that manages power delivery to the staggered set of 18-inch wheels (optional 21-inch wheels also available).

The Macan’s engine performance allows the mid-sized SUV to sprint from 0-100kph in 6.7 seconds and onwards to a top speed of 227kph. Fuel consumption has been rated at 8.1 litres per 100km on the combined cycle.

Changes within the cabin sees it sporting a new three-dimensional LED light panel at the rear and a new fully interconnected Porsche communication management system with a 10.9-inch (previously 7.2-inch) touchscreen display.

Outside, the Macan features the iconic four-point daytime running lights, LED brake lights, an enlarged central air intake at the front, 3D tail lights and a new rear light strip with an integrated 3D ‘PORSCHE’ lettering.

As standard for the Thai market, the SUV from Stuttgart, Germany receives the Macan Premium Package which throws in a BOSE surround sound system and includes Apple CarPlay with Siri, ambient lighting, Mechanical sun-blinds and auto dimming mirrors.

Still in German territory, Thailand also received the new BMW M850i xDrive Coupe, which makes an entrance with its low and powerful stance complemented by full-LED Laser front headlights and LED rear light clusters as well as enlarged signature kidney-grilles and forward air intakes to name a few.

Under the hood lies a 4.4-litre twin-turbo V8 producing 530hp from 5,500 to 6,000rpm and 750Nm of torque from 1,800 to 4,600rpm - allowing it sprint from standstill to 100kph in 3.7 seconds and onwards to an electronically-limited top speed of 250kph.

Five driving modes have been provided in the form of COMFORT, ECO Pro, ADAPTIVE, SPORT and SPORT+ as standard.

The chassis has been put together with a combination of aluminium, magnesium and carbon-fibre-reinforced-plastic (CFRP) for an exceptionally rigid-yet-lightweight structure.

Also as standard, the M850i arrives with the Adaptive M Suspension Professional, M rear spoiler and 20-inch M light-alloy Y-spoke wheels.

Inside, the cabin has been laden with a host of goodies that include a fully digital instrument cluster, 10.25-inch Control Display, a 16%-larger heads-up display, M leather steering wheel with paddle shifters, stainless steel mesh interior accents, ‘CraftedClarity’ (glass application) that illuminates the ‘8’ on the gear selector, illuminated door sills with 'M850i' designation as well as redesigned front and rear sports seats (without headrests) upholstered in Merino leather.

For added safety, the M850i gets fitted with Person Warning with City Braking Function, Rear-collision Prevention, Lane Departure Warning, Blind Spot Detection, Cross-traffic warning rear, Speed limit info, No-overtaking indicator and Parking Assistant Plus for added convenience.

Taking a glimpse into the future, Mercedes-Benz in Thailand showcased its EQA concept to provide viewers with an indication as to how the German automaker will apply its EQ strategy, which refers to its future intelligent electric mobility with an attractive design that promises exceptional driving and maximum safety.

According to Mercedes-Benz (Thailand) president and CEO Roland Folger, the EQA will possess “impressive agility and an amazingly long driving range of about 400km (depending on lithium-ion battery capacity installed of up to 60kWh) thanks to our well-developed architecture for pure electric vehicles.”

The EQA features two electric motors - one for each axle, with a combined output of 200kW that is able to alter its drive characteristics by varying the permanent all-wheel drive system's front to rear torque distribution accordingly - based on the parameters of the two driving modes of Sport and Sport Plus.

Depending on drive mode, the faux front grille will alter its looks and will depict a horizontal ‘flaming wing’ when in Sport mode, while Sport Plus mode changes it out for vertical struts in the style of a Panamericana radiator grille.

The EQA is fast-charge capable and can be conducted through the usual wallbox or via induction and payment for charge usage at public charging stations will be made seamless with its Mercedes me-based services.

Onto the MINI camp and the British iconic automaker showcased its radical John Cooper Works GP Concept that has been built upon the inspirations of the brand’s conquest during the 1967 Monte Carlo Rally as well as the looks of the John Cooper Works GP (2012) and Cooper S with John Cooper Works GP kit.

The concept has been coated in a shade of Black Jack Anthracite - allowing the paint to shimmer between shades of grey and black, while being accented with Curbside Red and High Speed Orange.

The concept also wears claddings of large carbon fibre parts that include the front and rear aprons, side skirts and a rather large roof spoiler to help optimise the car’s power-to-weight ratio and front-to-rear weight balance.

Inside, the cabin has been stripped down and fitted with black patinated smooth leather for the head restraints and bolsters as well as a black dashboard that houses the digital interface in the central instrument cluster and everything is set against the backdrop of a bright silver aluminium roll cage.

For China-owned British car maker - MG Motor, the company brought out its sporty E-Motion prototype electric roadster that’s said to have been earmarked for production some time in 2020.

The all-electric drivetrain is being developed inhouse by Shanghai Automotive and Industrial Corporation (SAIC) and promises over 500km of driving range on a single charge as well as a 0 to 100kph sprint times of less than 4.0 seconds.

Opening the electric roadster’s butterfly-style doors lies its four-seater cabin layout that will be fitted with ‘advanced connectivity’ as well as a touchscreen infotainment system for both front and rear passengers.

Last but not least on our choice picks during the expo is the Mazda Vision Coupe, which CarSifu had the honour of previewing in Bangkok, Thailand during this year's Mazda Asean Design Forum.

The coupe was flown into the Kingdom from Japan to sit on display to communicate the Japanese carmaker’s design philosophy for the upcoming seventh-generation models that will be introduced in the near future with its ‘new elegance’.

In creating the form of the body, designers at Mazda stripped away the ‘unnecessary’ for that ‘less is more’ philosophy, while its body panels have been intricately and purposefully shaped to give a play of light and shadow across its supple-looking steel surfaces.

Mazda said that the cabin will be symmetrical, with the steering sitting in the centre and everything else to the left and right and sitting  further towards the rear.

This forms a single smooth line based on the ‘golden ratio’ of classic coupe proportions to help create the feeling of a high-performance machine with a hint of powerful forward momentum.

Also, the interior is said to exude a sense of speed with the centre console, door trims and instrument panels all seemingly intersecting one another without coming into contact.

Spatially, the cabin encourages air flow throughout for the comfort of its occupants who will also note the lacking sense of confinement.

In terms of technology, the coupe will be fitted with see-through screens that will not hinder its driver’s view and will function as a display if and when it is required with a quick touch/swipe.

The 12-day expo, now in its 35th year of running is being held at the Impact Exhibition and Convention Center in Muang Thong Thani, Thailand from Nov 29 to Dec 10 and has been themed ‘Enjoy Driving! Before Driverless Era’.

Participants of the expo include 36 car makers from nine countries and 23 motorcycle makers from seven countries.

Organisers of the expo estimate that car bookings may reach 45,000 units as well as another 8,000 units for motorcycles  and everything should generate roughly 55bil Baht worth of transactions from an expected crowd of 1.5mil visitors this year.

Rolls-Royce Cullinan SUV

Porsche Macan (facelift)

BMW M850i xDrive

Mercedes EQ

MINI JCW GP Concept

MG E-Motion prototype

Mazda Vision Coupe


Defying Trump, California locks in vehicle emission deals with major automakers

The coastal city of Santa Monica is near Los Angeles, California.

WASHINGTON: The California Air Resources Board (CARB) and major automakers on Monday confirmed they had finalised binding agreements to cut vehicle emissions in the state, defying the Trump administration’s push for weaker curbs on tailpipe pollution.

The agreements with carmakers, including Ford Motor Co, Volkswagen AG, Honda Motor Co and BMW AG, were first announced in July 2019 as voluntary measures, prompting anger from US president Donald Trump.

A month later, the Justice Department opened an antitrust probe of the agreements, only to end it without action.

The administration in March finalised a rollback of US vehicle emissions standards to require 1.5% annual increases in efficiency through 2026, well below the 5% annual increases in discarded rules under President Barack Obama.

The Center for Biological Diversity estimates the deal will improve fuel economy 3.7% year over year between 2022-2026.

Volvo Cars, owned by China’s Geely Holdings, also finalised its agreement on Monday.

CARB said the deal will cut vehicle greenhouse gas emissions through 2026 and “encourage innovation to accelerate the transition to electric vehicles, provide industry the certainty needed to make investments and create jobs, and save consumers money.”

The White House did not comment.

The 13 states that follow California’s standards, which represent about 40% of the US auto market, have said they support the agreements.

In May, a group of 23 US states led by California and some major cities challenged the Trump vehicle emissions rule.

Other major automakers like General Motors Co, Fiat Chrysler Automobiles NV and Toyota Motor Corp did not join the California agreement.

Those companies also sided with the administration in a separate lawsuit over whether the federal government can strip California of the right to set zero emission vehicle requirements.

Ford said the deal will support “and incentivise the production of electrified products, and create regulatory certainty.”

Honda said the agreement will allow it to sell “a single nationwide fleet... that achieves substantial annual emissions improvements.”


New BMW X5 speeds through Sahara like it was on Monza circuit

                MUNICH: BMW not only declares its new X5 is a better off-roader. It wants to show you it is. Hence, it went to all the trouble to set up a little demo in Morocco

For the Italian launch of the X5, BMW’s office in Italy has created the iconic bends of Monza into the sands of the Sahara. The historic Monza circuit was reproduced in Merzouga, Morocco, a route of 5,793 metres that stands out among the sands and rocks of the Sahara. Every bend, every straight section, every chicane has been  reconstructed on a 1:1 scale, both in the radius of curvature and in the distances.

The demo was certainly no easy task to prepare. For two weeks, more than 50 people including engineers, surveyors, technicians, workers and pilots have toiled to carve out a sandy circuit. It took 4 days of study and preparation with surveyors, engineers and architects, with 8 post for topographic design and simulation.

For 9 days, 4 bulldozers and 4 trucks dug 24 cubic metres at a time to prepare the soil and remove excess sand; while 2 graders and 2 compactors have defined and compacted the track. Over 3500 cubic metres of earth have been moved to give life to the off-road track.

The X5, demo-ed here was fitted with the optional xOffroad package, which makes its debut on this model. The vehicle was welcomed in Morocco by the new BMW R 1250 GS, the enduro motorcycle, recently upgraded with a new boxer engine.

All X5s are built at the Spartanburg BMW plant in the United States. The launch on the Italian market is slotted for Nov 24.

The new chassis systems improve the off-road performance, sportiness and comfort of the new X5. The SAV is equipped as standard with Dynamic Damper Control while the Adaptive M Professional suspension with active anti-roll stabilisation and Integral Active Steering (making its debut in an X model) assures agile and dynamic driving characteristics. The air suspension of the two axles was fitted for driving comfort and allows the vehicle height to be adjusted by 80mm by pressing a button or using the BMW Display Key.

If the customer chooses the xOffroad package, a specific button gives the driver the choice between four off-road driving modes (xSand, xRocks, xGravel, xSnow), which automatically determine the ideal vehicle height settings, xDrive system, acceleration response and transmission control, and corrective inputs of the DSC system when he needs to drive on sand, rocks, gravel or snow.


LRT station offers free parking for two months

                PETALING JAYA: Motorists will get to enjoy two months of free parking from now until May at the newly opened Taman Bahagia LRT park-and-ride facility in SS2, Petaling Jaya.

A one-time entry fee of RM3 per vehicle will be charged after the two months is up.

Located along the Damansara-Puchong Highway (LDP), this parking lot is the third phase for the station, with the first parking lot located right behind the station.

The second one is on the right, while this new one is on the left. All three are located on Tenaga Nasional Bhd (TNB) reserve land used to house the company’s electric towers.

“With these facilities in place, there is no reason for motorists to double park or park illegally on the roads near the train station anymore,” said Petaling Jaya City Council (MBPJ) public relations officer Zainun Zakaria during a site visit.

“Plus, our fees are really cheap compared to parking on the roadside at 60sen per hour.”

She added that enforcement officers would take strict action against motorists who park irresponsibly by either clamping, towing or issuing compound notices.

There are a total of 504 parking bays and five spots for the disabled at the new facility.

The first phase has 55 lots and the second 224 lots.

“There is more than enough parking space here now, so there is no excuse to block the already narrow and busy roads around the LRT station,” Zainun stressed.

Costing more than RM3mil, this project, which completed on March 3, was funded by the Transport Ministry under the National Key Result Area (NKRA), with MBPJ as project manager.

“Our aim is to provide an integrated transport system which includes providing parking facilities to help encourage more motorists to use public transport and ease congestion,” said Transport Ministry’s logistic and land transport undersecretary R. Veejendran.

He added that during the site visit, there were a total of six projects under the NKRA in Petaling Jaya.

Four being park-and-ride facilities built at three different LRT stations and the other two being bus terminals – one along Jalan Othman and the other in PJS 3.

“Our first park-and-ride project with MBPJ was in Taman Paramount, where we provided 328 bays with six lots for the disabled at a cost of more than RM2.3mil,” Veejendran said.

This project was completed on July 18 last year, and followed by the park-and-ride at the Taman Jaya LRT station on Sept 27, costing RM848,222.

There are 194 parking bays there with four of them for the disabled.

Phase two of the Taman Bahagia park-and-ride facility with 224 bays was completed on Sept 29 at a cost of more than RM1mil.

“All in all, we have provided 1,250 parking bays at the three LRT train stations in Petaling Jaya, and we will be working with MBPJ on similar projects again in the future,” he said.

Meanwhile, the Old Town bus terminal in Jalan Othman, which has been delayed for more than a year, is expected to be completed by end of the month.

Also a project under the NKRA, the RM4mil development which started in September 2014, is now being given the final touches before being opened to the public in July.

It saw the old two-storey bus terminal being torn down to make way for a new and modern two-storey bus terminal.

“The bus terminal is almost complete. What’s left is just some interior finishing and the installation of escalators, which should take about a month,” he said, adding that the bus terminal would be handed over to MBPJ to manage by the end of March.

Once opened, this terminal will cater to all buses passing by it, including the PJ free city bus.


Tesla breaks a long-held sales record in Norway

                OSLO: Norway's best-selling car record for a single year previously belonged to Volkswagen, which sold nearly 16,700 units of its famous Beetle in 1969.

Shifting 16,748 units since the start of the year, the Tesla Model Y beat a record that previously stood for more than 50 years.

In addition, the Tesla SUV was also the best-selling new car of any engine type in Europe in November 2022.

In the year-end ranking of top-selling new vehicles in Norway, the Model Y is ahead of two other electric SUVs, the Volkswagen ID.4 and the Skoda Enyaq iV.

In fact, Norway is the first country in the world where almost all new cars sold are now electric.

Norway has long been the country best prepared to make the transition to all-electric power with minimal delay, and for several reasons.

The country has long favoured the development of electric cars, notably by setting up a tax incentive scheme very early on, encouraging people to buy "clean" cars, and by developing significant charging infrastructure for many years.

In this respect, many other European countries appear to be lagging behind.


Malaysia starts returning vehicles to Thai owners

A pick-up truck is disinfected following its return to Thailand on Wednesday. — Image from Bangkok Post
PETALING JAYA: Thai vehicle owners who left their cars in Malaysia following the Covid-19 lockdown have begun receiving them back.

Bangkok Post reported that most of the cars were concentrated in Kelantan where their owners often stay temporarily to conduct business.

The lockdown in Malaysia began on March 18 and is set to lift on Aug 31. When the movement control order began, the Thai traders returned to their home country, leaving their vehicles behind.

Sungai Golok district chief Rungruang Thimabut said local officials of Narathiwat and Kelantan agreed to help following pleas by the owners for the return of their vehicles, many of which were pick-up trucks.

Thai territorial defence volunteers on Tuesday drove the first batch of vehicles through the Sungai Golok immigration checkpoint.

The vehicles would be handed over to their rightful owners after being disinfected and left in the sun for three days. As part of the safety protocol, the volunteers were to be quarantined for 14 days.

Cross-border trading between southern Thailand and Malaysia is robust and is set to grow further. It contributes the bulk of total trade between both countries, which stood at nearly RM100 billion last year.


All-new Triumph Tiger 1200 introduced from RM115,900

                PETALING JAYA: Triumph Motorcycles Malaysia has unveiled the all-new Triumph Tiger 1200.

The new Tiger 1200 adventure and touring motorcycle will be offered locally in two variants of GT Pro and Rally Explorer.

The GT Pro is more attuned to touring while the Rally Explorer is designed for on-road and off-road riding.

The Rally Explorer comes with a wet weight of 261kg and a 30-litre fuel capacity.

Meanwhile, the GT Pro is lighter at 245kg with a smaller 20-litre tank.

Both variants are powered by a new generation 1,160cc T-plane triple 3-cylinder engine that comes with 12 valves, dual camshafts and liquid cooling.

Output is 148HP at 9,000rpm with 130Nm of torque at 7,000rpm.

Notable features for both bikes are hill hold, cruise control, five riding modes, adaptive cornering lighting, all-led lighting with daytime running light, LED Auxiliary Lights, 7-inch TFT instrument panel with My Triumph Connectivity System, ABS and Traction Control, hand guards, aluminium skid plate.

However, blindspot radar, tyre pressure monitoring system, engine protection bars and fuel tank protection bars are only available on the Rally Explorer.

The GT Pro is priced at RM115,900 (excluding road tax and insurance) and the Rally Explorer costs more at RM130,900.

Fast Bikes Sdn Bhd chief executive officer Datuk Razak Al Malique Hussain said:

“The Tiger 1200, like all of Triumph’s new generation of motorcycles, underlines the brand’s philosophy moving forward to muscle out the competition by offering customers greater excitement on two wheels at exceptional value for money proposition.”

For more information, contact Triumph Motorcycles Malaysia at 03-7960 9007; visit website at www.triumphmotorcycles.com.my; or visit any of Triumph showrooms in Petaling Jaya, Penang, Auto City Juru, Johor Bahru, Kota Kinabalu and Batu Caves.


Hyundai teases sharp new Kona and Kona N Line SUVs

UPDATE: The Hyundai Kona is expected to launch in Malaysia in the last quarter of 2020. Booking is now open for the crossover which is estimated to be priced at around RM115,000

FRANKFURT: Hyundai Motor has shared a glimpse of its upcoming Kona and Kona N Line SUVs that express Hyundai’s "Sensuous Sportiness" global design identity.

The new Kona gets a wider stance and a shark-inspired nose that gives the model a sleeker look. Upgraded daytime running lamps (DRL) give it a high-tech, sophisticated style. Front skid plate and bumper add to its armoured appearance.

In contrast, the new Kona N Line receives a more aerodynamic design with low-set air intakes and a more aggressive front bumper, complemented by corner fins and lean crease lines.

The N Line model offers an attractive entry point to the N brand and expands Kona’s appeal to a broader range of customers.

More design details on the new Kona and Kona N Line would be revealed in the coming weeks.


Taking the digital road

                PETALING JAYA: With the help of sales tax exemption initiatives until the end of the year, the local automotive industry is expected to continue to experience growth and is on the road to recovery despite challenging times.

The fact is that the automotive sales industry is vigorous in venturing into innovative approaches.

With more safety restrictions and precautions in place as a result of the current pandemic, car exhibitions and roadshows have made the transition from physical showrooms to virtual alternatives.

Car buyers can continue to explore the features and specifications of the vehicles from the comfort and safety of their own home through online events such as digital roadshows.

Jonathan Adams, Chief Marketing Officer of iCar Asia, an automotive buying and selling e-commerce site said, "Since the consumers are facing limitations to buy and visit the showrooms and distributors, we took the initiative to organise virtual events to enable buyers to get their dream vehicle easily and comfortably, without any worries. ”

Does this mean physical showrooms will cease to exist? Not entirely as there will still be customers who prefer to test drive the vehicle before making the final purchase.

The key to targeting consumers is through a personalized approach. There is no one size fits all. As businesses are gradually moving towards online car sales, operations through distributor websites or automotive e-commerce sites, expect the user convenience and safety to be prioritized.

In the end, an enhanced user experience online provides the consumer the option and selection to suit their needs in acquiring their dream car.


VW fined one billion euros by German prosecutors over emissions cheating

                BERLIN: Volkswagen was fined one billion euros (RM4.7bil) over diesel emissions cheating in what amounts to one of the highest ever fines imposed by German authorities against a company, public prosecutors said on Wednesday.

The German fine follows a US plea agreement from January 2017 when VW agreed to pay US$4.3 billion (RM17.2bil) to resolve criminal and civil penalties for installing illegal software in diesel engines to cheat strict US anti-pollution tests.

“Following thorough examination, Volkswagen AG accepted the fine and it will not lodge an appeal against it. Volkswagen AG, by doing so, admits its responsibility for the diesel crisis and considers this as a further major step towards the latter being overcome,” it said in a statement.

The fine is the latest blow to Germany’s auto industry which cannot seem to catch a break from the diesel emissions crisis. Germany’s government on Monday ordered Daimler to recall nearly 240,000 cars fitted with illicit emissions-control devices, part of a total of 774,000 models affected in Europe as a whole.

Munich prosecutors this week widened an emissions cheating probe into VW’s luxury brand Audi to include chief executive Rupert Stadler among the suspects accused of fraud and false advertising.

The prosecutor’s office in Braunschweig imposed the fine against VW on Wednesday for organisational deficiencies which failed to prevent “impermissible software functions” from being installed in 10.7 million cars between 2007 and 2015.

The fine did not address any civil claims or claims by vehicle owners, the prosecutor’s office said in its statement. It does, however, end regulatory offence proceedings against Volkswagen, which the Wolfsburg-based carmaker said would help to settle further administrative proceedings against VW in Europe.

VW is far from being out of the woods. The carmaker’s new chief executive, Herbert Diess, and the group’s chairman Hans Dieter Poetsch are still being investigated by Braunschweig prosecutors for suspected market manipulation.

Poetsch, also CEO of VW’s majority stakeholder Porsche SE, is separately being investigated by prosecutors in Stuttgart over the same suspicions.

“Courts will now hardly be able to dismiss consumer complaints,” said Jan-Eike Andresen of platform MyRight which has mandated US law firm Hausfeld to pursue civil claims.

Hausfeld represents aggrieved VW owners and shareholders on both sides of the Atlantic.

Wednesday’s fine was not included in the 25.8 billion euros (RM118bil) of provisions that VW set aside for the diesel cheating scandal, and would hit earnings, analysts at Evercore ISI said.

Volkswagen said it held a management board meeting to discuss the latest development in its emissions crisis with members of the supervisory board also being informed.

Further steps would be taken to overcome the diesel cheating scandal and to restore trust in the company, Diess said.


12 Proton outlets achieve 3S and 4S status

                PETALING JAYA: The Dealers Network Upgrade and New Dealership Agreement signing ceremony was held at Proton Centre of Excellence in Shah Alam which saw a total of 12 Proton dealers approved for 3S and 4S status.

Proton also announced that half of these approved dealers were new investors.

The six new investors present for the signing ceremony were Victorange Sdn Bhd, Fook Loi Corporation (Sabah) Sdn
Bhd (Kota Kinabalu), Fook Loi Corporation (Sabah) Sdn Bhd (Sandakan), Ming Heng Sdn Bhd, Grand Arena Automotive Sdn Bhd and YS Autoworld Sdn Bhd.

Present at the ceremony were Chief Executive Officer of Proton, Dr Li Chunrong; Deputy Chief Executive Officer of Proton, Datuk Radzaif Mohamed; Chief Executive Officer of Proton Edar Sdn Bhd, Abdul Rashid Musa and senior management members of Proton.

So far, 93 outlets have been approved for upgrades to 3S and 4S,  while there are 16 outlets remaining to achieve the target of 109.

“All our plans are on track with most states having fulfilled its quota for outlet upgrades except for five states which are Melaka, Johor, Terengganu, Perak and Central. However, the numbers are small. We are confident, even before October, we should be able to realise the total of 109 outlets,” said Abdul.


Daimler embarks on self-driving race with San Francisco shuttles

                FRANKFURT: Daimler AG plans to offer autonomous shuttles on public roads in California from next year, adding momentum to the global race for self-driving vehicles with technology giants like Alphabet Inc.’s Waymo and rival BMW AG.

The service will start with a test fleet in the second half of 2019 in the San Francisco Bay Area, with users hailing vehicles via an app that’ll prompt the cars to come to them within a defined area, the German manufacturer and Robert Bosch GmbH said Wednesday in a joint statement.

The offering, if successful, will join Daimler’s suite of mobility services that includes car sharing, the Mytaxi ride-hailing service and moovel, an app that helps users decide how to get to their destination quickest.

Mercedes-Benz maker Daimler and Bosch, the world’s biggest car-component supplier, started working on autonomous vehicles last year. Wednesday’s announcement suggests the technology partners are speeding up plans from an initial target of taking robo-taxis to the road in 2023, as other major players aren’t far behind.

By 2019, General Motors Co. expects to deploy electric Chevy Bolt robot taxis in big US cities. Ride-hailing giant Uber Technologies Inc. has also pledged to launch a fleet of self-driving Volvo XC90 sport utility vehicles in that time frame.

“The decisive factor is to introduce a safe, dependable and mature system,” said Michael Hafner, Daimler’s head of automated driving. “If in doubt, thoroughness comes before speed.”

While Waymo and GM pursue ambitious plans for road-worthy robo-taxi fleets, Daimler declined to say how many cars will roam the street on their own. Most shuttles will have a safety driver, the company said.

Another effort, backed by both Toyota Motor Corp. and BMW, has a driverless shuttle ferry workers from a parking garage in Detroit to their office. The slow-lane approach comes after several accidents, including an Uber test car killing a pedestrian in Arizona, prompted some companies to pause robo-taxi tests.

“Developing automated driving to a level ready for series production is like a decathlon,” Stephan Hoenle, a senior vice president in Bosch’s automated driving unit said in the statement. “It’s not enough to be good in one or two areas.”


Morgan turns 70, rolls out limited edition Plus 4

                LONDON: The Morgan Motor Company has built the first of its limited-run Plus 4 70th Anniversary Edition models and they come in four variants.

The four cars, the first of just 20 examples to be built, were completed at the British carmaker's factory in Malvern Link in the UK last week and deposits have already been taken for all of them.

The completion and distribution of the first cars came just before the Morgan Motor Company took the decision to close its factory for one month as part of efforts to combat the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19).

For the first time since World War II, the factory will close for an extended period from March 25 March onwards.

In celebration of its 70th anniversary of the Plus 4 production, each of the anniversary models will be individually numbered and built in a unique specification with several notable details.

The production of these models follows the launch of the all-new Plus Four earlier in March which is underpinned by Morgan’s latest CX-Generation aluminium platform.

The new Plus Four is referred to with a wordmark as opposed to the numerical reference of its predecessor and will replace the outgoing 4/4, Plus 4 and Roadster.

The introduction of the new model means that the Plus 4 70th Anniversary Edition models will be the last to be built on Morgan’s traditional steel frame chassis - a version of which has been in production since the Morgan 4-4 was introduced in 1936.

For a short period of time, the last of the traditional steel chassis Plus 4 models are being built alongside the first of the CX-Generation platform Plus Four models.

First built in 1950, the Plus 4 is one of the company’s best-selling models throughout seven decades of production, and is admired by fans of Morgan worldwide.

For the first time ever, the chassis will be painted in gold to highlight the significance of Morgan’s 111-year history.

Other than the individually numbered plaque, a specially embroidered headrest will be used to further differentiation as well as a special Platinum Metallic paint.

Also used are satin dark grey wire wheels to complement the paint while a motorsport-inspired front valance and exterior black pack consisting of a stone guard, A-pillars and side screens - all coated in black.

Inside, the cabin features leather upholstery, a Ravenwood veneer dashboard, dark grey box weave carpets and a satin black Mota-Lita steering wheel as well as leather-trimmed steering cowl and door handles, mohair hood cover, and side-screen storage bags.

Heated ‘performance’ seats, footwell lighting and an exclusive commemorative Photographic Build Record are also included with the car.

The cars come with an engine map configured by Aero Racing - the company's in-house performance tuners, who have uprated the power from 154bhp to 180bhp - allowing for a 0 to 100kph sprint time of under 7.0 seconds.

Additionally, they have been fitted with an Aero Racing sports exhaust before being finished by a ceramic-black tailpipe.

“It’s a poignant moment as the first CX-Generation Plus Four models are built alongside the final steel chassis Plus 4 models. We feel that both models represent the true qualities of a Morgan sports car,” said Morgan chairman and CEO Steve Morris.


Singapore nightclub reveller fined RM7,500 for leaping onto roof of BMW

Screengrab showing Chee jumping on top of the BMW car. — Facebook/Belleiansa Xu
SINGAPORE: A nightclub reveller who downed six bottles of whisky with friends while celebrating his birthday decided to end the night by running over a car – literally.

But little did Chee Chu Siong know that he was also running into trouble.

For when the event management executive leapt on the bonnet of a BMW as it approached him in a car park, before marching over the windscreen and roof, its driver had the in-car camera switched on to record his antics.

The clip has since been viewed more than 17,000 times on YouTube and also led to him being traced and prosecuted.

Deputy Public Prosecutor Li Yihong said that Chee had gone to a St James Power Station club with his friends on May 4, 2018, and they left at around 3am the next day.

The group was walking through a nearby car park when Chee spotted the BMW, which was being driven by 70-year-old private-hire car driver Koh Poh Choh.

Li added: “As the complainant was driving up to the accused and his friends, the rest of the group moved to the side of the road, but the accused ran into the path of the complainant's car.

“The complainant was forced to bring his car to a complete stop so as not to crash into the accused. The accused then jumped onto the bonnet of the complainant's car, just as the car came to a stop”.

The court heard that Chee then stepped over the windscreen and climbed onto the roof before jumping off and walking away.

Koh was unable to alight in time to detain Chee.

Chee was represented by lawyers Josephus Tan and Cory Wong from Invictus Law Corporation.

Tan told the court that his client is remorseful, adding that Chee had also paid the full compensation of S$12,300 (RM37,050).

Offenders convicted of committing a rash act that endangers the personal safety of others can be jailed for up to six months and fined up to S$2,500. – The Straits Times/ ANN

WATCH: Offence in progress


Updated BMW 5 Series previewed

                KUALA LUMPUR: BMW Group Malaysia has previewed the new BMW 530e M Sport and the new BMW 530i M Sport as the upcoming additions to its line-up of locally-assembled premium executive sedans.

The estimated on-the-road without insurance (with sales and services tax) price for 530e M Sport plug-in hybrid is RM343,000 and the 530i M Sport is RM396,000.

Complete with the M Aerodynamics package, the new variants are now fitted with larger kidney grilles and slimmer headlights with a new daytime running light design.

The 530e M Sport comes with Adaptive LED Matrix headlights, in addition to the standard LED headlights, while the 530i M Sport is equipped with the BMW Laserlight.

Both  include  the  anti-glare  BMW  Selective  Beam  high-beam  assistant  with turning lights, and adaptive cornering function.

The BMW Individual high-gloss Shadow Line frames the 530e M Sport, while the 530i M Sport gets the BMW Individual Exterior  Line Aluminium Satinated.

The front and rear bumpers on both variants are also redesigned with larger air intakes, alongside new LED taillight elements in the signature BMW L-shape.

For the first time, the light source is integrated directly into the  taillight’s  outermost  layer, maximising the 3D effect.

While both cars also feature Adaptive Suspension and the M Sport brake with blue-painted M Sport brake callipers with  M designation, they also get new 19-inch M light alloy Y-Spoke 845M Bi-Colour Jet Blackwheels with both mixed and runflat tyres.

Powering the 530e M Sport is a 2.0-litre 4-cylinder BMW TwinPower Turbo and an eDrive electric motor delivering a combined output of 292hp and 420Nm of torque with 109hp contributed by the electric motor.

Coupled to an eight-speed Steptronic transmission, the 530e M Sport does the century sprint in 5.9 seconds and has a top speed of 235kph.

Fuel consumption is rated at 2.3-litres per 100km with a CO2 emission of 53g per km.

An all-electric top speed of 140kph and range of up to 67km (NEDC correlated) is possible.

The hybrid battery can be fully-charged with a BMW i Wallbox in approximately 3 hours and 35 minutes, or under 6 hours with a conventional main socket via a standard charging cable.

The 530i M Sport, meanwhile, also gets a 2.0-litre 4-cylinder BMW TwinPower Turbo delivering 252hp and 350Nm of torque mated to an eight-speed Steptronic transmission.

A 0-100kph sprint is done in 6.4 seconds along with a top speed of 250kph.

Fuel consumption is 6.7-litre per 100km with a CO2 emission of 154g per km.

Further enhancing the driving experience of both premium sedans are Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) that is complemented by Dynamic Traction Control (DTC), Cornering Brake Control (CBC), Dynamic Brake Control (DBC) and the Antilock Braking System (ABS) with Brake Assist.

Also included are M leather steering wheel, stylish front sport seats, interior trim finishers in Aluminium Rhombicle, Dakota Leather upholstery, BMW Individual anthracite headliner,interior ambient lighting and the BMW Live Cockpit Professional, running the latest BMW Operating System 7.

The 530i M Sport also comes with an electrical glass roof.

BMW Group Malaysia managing director Harald Hoelzl said the BMW 5 Series has long set the leadership pace in the premium executive segment with their outstanding driving dynamics, appearance  and  digital innovations.

"The upcoming introduction  of  these two new  variants in  Malaysia also  signifies  our  commitment  towards  driving  and leading change in the local automotive industry especially in the electrified segment," he said.

Customers can register their interest for both cars at BMW Shop at https://shop.bmw.my/.


Age limit of public service vehicles extended

                PETALING JAYA: The Transport Ministry has announced an automatic one-year extension of vehicle age limit for public service vehicles in a bid to aid the public transport sector.

Its minister, Datuk Seri Dr Wee Ka Siong, said the decision to grant this extension was made with the understanding that many drivers and operators would face great difficulty in replacing their vehicles during this challenging time.

This was to assist the public transport industry, particularly those operating or driving taxis, school and tour buses, to weather the difficulties caused by the Covid-19 pandemic, he said.

"The ministry will grant an automatic extension of one year to public transport vehicles that have or will reach their maximum vehicle age limit as stipulated in their respective permits or licences, including those that had been granted a prior extension in 2020.

"Any public service vehicle that has or will reach its respective permitted age limit between Jan 1 and Dec 31, 2021 will be granted an automatic one-year extension for the vehicle's licensing purposes.

"However, this extension is only for vehicles that have undergone and passed the Puspakom vehicle inspection process to ensure their road-worthiness and safe operation," he said on Monday.

Dr Wee said that all classes of public service vehicles under the purview of the Land Public Transport Agency and the respective Commercial Vehicle Licensing boards of Sabah and Sarawak were eligible for this extension.

The ministry's decision regarding this extension for tour or excursion buses has also been made in coordination with tour operator licensing and tour or excursion bus licensing requirements in Sabah, Sarawak and Labuan under the purview of the Tourism, Arts, and Culture Ministry.

It followed the outcome from consultations between the ministry and the industry's representatives and associations, added Dr Wee.

They include the Federation of School Bus Associations Malaysia, Pan Malaysia Bus Operators Association, Persatuan Pengusaha Bas Persiaran Semenanjung Malaysia, and Gabungan Teksi Semenanjung Malaysia, Koperasi, among others.

"The ministry remains committed to the feedback from transport industry players affected by the pandemic as public transport remains an essential transport for many.

"We hope that this automatic extension of the vehicle age limit for one year will bring some relief to the industry as companies focus on recovering to become competitive again to serve the public," he said.