Renault Clio RS 200 EDC tested

                Everyone loves a sporty car that can weave through traffic with loads of fun thrown in. Our tester had a good time with the Clio RS 200 EDC.

Renault is no stranger to making ferocious hot hatches, and with the new Clio Renault Sport (RS) 200, they intend on continuing that long tradition.

The latest incarnation of the wild ride does hint at some ‘growing up’, and in many ways this is clearly seen.

The car is now strictly five-door only, which might sadden those who love the original three-door sporty look.

But fear not, the rear door handles are of the neatly ‘hidden’ design, like those we used to see on an Alfa Romeo 156, so you still have a sporty silhouette at first glance.

There is nothing subtle about the exterior of this sporty compact, the aggressive front screams in your face with its sharp-looking headlamps, bright daytime-running lights and large Renault grille (with a Formula One-inspired horizontal strip and RS-badge prominently displayed for good measure), while the rear sports a roof spoiler and diffuser for aerodynamic purposes.

Sleek-looking tail lamps are among the most handsome in its class and exhaust pipes are neatly integrated into the diffuser.

The side profile boasts muscular shoulders and fancy mouldings, completed all-round by Goodyear Eagle F1 tyres on 17-inch wheels that look mean.

The Flame Red paintjob our test car came in completes the overall look of the exterior.

There is no doubt that this is one hatch you don’t want to mess with on the road.

Stepping inside, you’ll find the interior isn’t as flashy as the exterior, but it is still sporty nevertheless.

A hands-free Renault key card is intended to be slotted into the dash, but you can still activate the push-start ignition system with the card placed in your pocket.

There is a certain feel of spaciousness in the cabin, which is remarkable considering the fact that this is in all honesty a rather compact car.

Even up in the rear, it isn’t as tight as one might expect.

Boot space is larger than average in its class, and seats can fold down for added flexibility.

Good to know that you still have practicality available on days you wish to use the car for less insane purposes.

A meaty leather-wrapped steering wheel greets you, armed with huge paddle shifters and a cool-looking instrument cluster behind, where a digital speedometer takes centrestage.

An orange theme dominates, with accents on the doors, air conditioning vents, steering wheel, upholstery stitching, gear lever, carpets and best of all, orange seat belts!

Renault Sport branding is also flashed here and there, as to remind you what car you are in.

The “floating effect” centre console looks neat but it is quite apparent that this design, originally made for left-hand drive, wasn’t “mirror-imaged” when the Clio RS 200 was converted to right-hand drive.

Thankfully the gear lever housing is angled correctly.

One of the highlights of the Clio RS 200 is RS Monitor 2.0, which provides the driver with a plethora of information.

Track enthusiasts and PlayStation addicts will get a real kick out of this, as you can obtain real-time info like g-force diagrams, bar graphs (torque, power, turbo pressure, throttle valve aperture, brake pressure, steering wheel angle, engine speed, wheel torque, water, transmission and intake air temperature, among others), wheel spin and even a graphical display of the twin-clutch gearbox internals.

There is a GPS-aided stop watch for you to track your lap times, with a data logger which you can plug in a USB stick to store.

For some drivers this may be more information than they would ever need, but for weekend track warriors, this feature is heaven-sent.

Another interesting feature would be the R-Sound Effect, which is a fun application that utilises the car’s sound system to reproduce the sound of a several high-performance engines.

Three are unique to the Clio RS (Alpine A110, R8 Gordini and Nissan GT-R) and you can even make the car sound like a cruiser bike!

However, I believe the one that takes the cake would be the ‘Renault Reinastella’, a George Jetson-like hover car that’s purportedly from the year 2038 and emits a flying saucer sound. Yes, you read that right.

If you haven’t noticed, the new Clio RS is available only with a six-speed ‘Efficient Dual Clutch (EDC)’ transmission, which might be a slight bummer for hardcore enthusiasts who love their manual gear shifts.

The paddle shifters work well, but I personally felt the response time could be a little more instant.

Gearshifts are brisk in automatic mode though, and even in default settings the car is very nimble.

The new 1.6L four-cylinder 16-valve turbo delivers 200hp at 6,000rpm, along with 240Nm of torque from 1,750rpm.

The highlight would be the RS Drive, a little insignificant-looking button that sits between the gear lever and handbrake.

Pressing the button modifies the mapping of the EDC gearbox, alternating between the various modes (normal, sport and race).

The high amount of torque is guaranteed to provide instant driving thrills, and coupled with performance tyres this pocket rocket will devour any corner with relative ease.

This is one car that begs to be driven fast and floored hard.

And I really must mention the exhaust note, which is stupendous.

Really. Just switch off the R-Sound Effect because that note is truly the real deal.

The segment where the Clio RS 200 sits in is starting to really pick up lately, with quite a number of competitors that include the VW Polo GTI, Peugeot 208 GTI and the upcoming Ford Fiesta ST.

This made-in-France Clio RS 200 can be yours for RM172,888 (on-the-road with insurance).


2020 Subaru Legacy sedan to debut in Chicago

                TOKYO: The all-new 2020 Subaru Legacy sedan (U.S. model) will make its world debut at the 2019 Chicago Auto Show.

It gets new LED headlights and a revised exterior design that looks sleeker, judging from the teaser image that Subaru has released.

Another teaser photo of the interior shows a big vertical touchscreen on the centre dashboard, located behind the gear knob.

The new Legacy is likely to get an updated 2.5-litre flat-four engine mated to a CVT (continuously variable transmission), as well as all-wheel drive.


Puspakom offers free vehicle inspection in conjunction with Hari Raya

                SHAH ALAM: The Computerised Vehicle Inspection Centre (Puspakom) is organising a voluntary vehicle inspection for free to all drivers and private vehicle owners from April 10 to April 20 in a move to ensure safe driving during Hari Raya Aidilfitri.

Its chief executive officer, Mohammed Shukor Ismail, vehicle owners who wish to have their vehicle checked for free can just walk in at any Puspakom branch nationwide (except for its Shah Alam, Selangor; Taman Bukit Maluri, Kuala Lumpur and Pasir Gudang, Johor branches) from 8am to 5pm.

He said its Mobile Inspection Unit is also offering free inspections at several selected locations listed on Puspakom's website at www.puspakom.com.my or Puspokom Sdn Bhd Facebook.

The voluntary vehicle inspection will focus on safety aspects with regards to brakes, side slips, tires, suspensions, emission, lights, bottom and top of the vehicle as well as tinted windscreens.

"The free inspection drive is aimed at getting vehicle owners to be more aware of the condition of their vehicles through inspections using computerised equipment and with the information gained they could then send their vehicle for proper maintenance service," he said in a statement today.


Electric successor to Volvo XC90 may be named Embla

                PETALING JAYA: Volvo Cars has already made it clear its product line-up will go fully electric by 2030.

It's believed that the all-electric successor to the XC90 would be named Embla, as hinted by Volvo CEO Hakan Samuelsson, who had said in a recent interview that the new name of the top electric SUV model would begin with a vowel.

The XC90 successor would also be the first model to be based on an entirely new electric platform. It would be made at Volvo's plant in South Carolina, USA, and is scheduled to be unveiled in 2022.

Embla is also the name of the first woman in Norse fables. Adding credence is a report from auto website Carbuzz that said Volvo had registered the "Embla" name in October.

Other pure electric models would also get unique names as Volvo sheds the alphanumeric naming system.

At present, Volvo already has two electric models - the XC40 Recharge and C40 Recharge - but they are built on the Compact Modular Architecture (CMA) jointly developed by Volvo and parent company Geely in 2017. That platform was meant for combustion engined cars, and to use it for electric cars meant making compromises.

With a new electric platform, the issue of engine and exhaust system become irrelevant, allowing Volvo to offer electric cars that have a flat floor and a roomier interior.


Citroën C5 Aircross revealed in Shanghai

                SHANGHAI: The Citroën C5 Aircross is making its world debut at the 2017 Shanghai auto show.

It will launch in China in October, followed by Europe in the second half of 2018.

Citroen's latest vehicle is aimed at cashing into the SUV trend that has swept the world and now accounts for almost one quarter of global vehicle sales. Citroën said the C5 Aircross would be one of several upcoming SUVs with more personality and ease of use for everyone on-board.

Inspired by the Aircross Concept that was unveiled in 2015 here, the C5 Aircross is the first vehicle to be equipped with a new suspension system with Progressive Hydraulic Cushions. This system delivers improved damping for exceptional ride comfort that is synonymous with Citroën.

Powered in China by the latest-generation petrol engines developing 165hp and 200hp, along with the EAT6 e-shift automatic gearbox, the C5 Aircross promises driving comfort, driving pleasure and outstanding efficiency.

This will be the first Citroën vehicle to feature the Plug-In Hybrid PHEV e-AWD drivetrain, bringing amazing dynamic performances. This hybrid drivetrain will comprise a 200hp petrol engine and two electric motors, and will develop total output of 300hp. New C5 Aircross will then become the most powerful Citroën production car ever.

Four modes of operation will be available: ‘All-electric’ (with a range of 60km), ‘Hybrid’ for long distances without charging, ‘Combined’ and ‘4X4’. This technology will make it possible to charge the battery during deceleration or via the combustion engine while driving.

The high bonnet line, short overhangs, flowing organic lines and strong graphic features, convey a bold and comforting identity. It gets full LED headlights and four 3D LED oblong modules making up the rear lights. The tailgate is hands-free and electrically operated.

At 4.5m long, the vehicle has as 2.73m wheelbase and a 482l boot space. The two-level boot floor makes it possible to partition the space in order to safely store smaller items. It gives the opportunity to create a totally flat floor thanks to the ‘Magic Handle’ that is accessible from the boot, which is useful to fold the rear seats (60:40 split) without any effort.

Inside, welcoming seats, a wide and tall central console, and soft and warm materials enhance the feeling of protection and comfort. Taking advantage of the EMP2 platform, this new car offers intelligent architecture and enhanced well-being on-board. The available space is open and full of light, thanks to the panoramic sunroof. There are front heated seats with massage functions and welcoming rear seats with extra leg room. The atmosphere inside the car is even purified thanks to air quality treatment.

To attract younger buyers, the C5 Aircross provides features for occupants to stay connected such as a wireless induction charging function for smartphones, mirroring function for Apple Carplay on the 8-inch HD touchscreen and navigation.

The vehicle also packs in driving aids that are the precursor to driverless vehicles. The aids include Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop Function, Active Safety Brake, Speed Sign Recognition, Active Blind Spot Monitoring System, Automatic Dimming Headlights, Active Lane Departure Warning System and panoramic view.

Like the Peugeot 3008, the C5 Aircross is equipped with Grip Control, which works with special 19-inch wheels and Mud & Snow tyres. Designed to help the car move over difficult terrain, Grip Control delivers the benefits of intelligent traction in off-road mode.

It uses an advanced anti-skid function built into the ESP computer, which manages the traction from the driven wheels. It includes a number of modes for different types of terrain. The Grip Control provides access to five operating modes: ‘Standard’, ‘Sand’, ‘Off-road’, ‘Snow’ and ‘ESP OFF’.

The vehicle also features Hill Assist Descent Control (HADC), a new function to help the driver safely control and steer the vehicle on steep slopes. The system is able to maintain a low vehicle speed for greater control and safety.


Belgian scientists turn polluted air into auto fuel

Belgian scientists have developed a device that uses light and a special catalyst to clean polluted air, but at the same time produces hydrogen that can then be used to power hydrogen fuel cell vehicles.— AFP
BRUSSELS: There are a number of huge challenges facing the global auto industry, but two of the biggest are reducing pollution and developing replacements for fossil fuel-powered vehicles for a more sustainable future. It has to be said it's early days yet, but some scientists in Belgium have come up with a way of potentially killing both of these incredibly difficult birds with one stone.

Scientists from the University of Antwerp and KU Leuven (University of Leuven) in Belgium have developed a device that uses light and a special catalyst to clean polluted air, but at the same time produces hydrogen that can then be used to power hydrogen fuel cell vehicles.

The device uses a process called, "heterogeneous photocatalysis," which has been used previously to siphon hydrogen from water and nullify gas-based pollutants. However, it's rarely been used to do both at once, but the team now appears to have managed it thanks to what's called a "photoelectrochemical cell," which makes use of solar cells to produce hydrogen in a similar way to electrolysis water-splitting.

According to Professor Sammy Verbuggen, the two processes are performed in the one device in what are being referred to as two individual "rooms," which are separated by a membrane to isolate them from each other. On one side of the device air is purified with a photoanode, while in the other side of the device hydrogen is generated from "a part of the degradation process" thanks to a cathode that's been tucked behind the solid electrolyte membrane.

The key to the team's success so far is the choice of catalyst. Professor Verbuggen explains, "In the past, these cells were mostly used to extract hydrogen from water. We have now discovered that this is also possible, and even more efficient, with polluted air."

But before we get too carried away, the team is quick to point out this apparent wonder device is at a very early stage of development. They insist that what they have come up with so far is little more than a "proof-of-concept," which they also admit has "ample room for improvement."

The device so far only measures a few square centimetres, so it's hardly up to powering fleets of vehicles or counterbalancing our carbon emissions. Every exciting development has to start somewhere though, and this definitely looks to be very encouraging at least.


Tan Chong Aftersales Division tops Global Nissan Aftersales Award 2020 in Asia-Pacific region

                KUALA LUMPUR: Tan Chong Aftersales Division recently emerged as winner in the Global Nissan Aftersales Award 2020 (GNAA), making it three wins since 2017 as the best achieving Nissan dealer for aftersales services within Asia and Pacific region.

The Global Nissan Aftersales Award is one of the most prestigious honours by Nissan Motor Co Ltd. (NML), aimed to motivate and improve aftersales operational excellence, and enhance customer service experience across the globe.

The award is granted to the best performing Nissan dealer according to a set of standards covering the aspect of parts and service performance, customer service and satisfaction, and quality of business management.

Tan Chong Ekspres Auto Servis Sdn Bhd (TCEAS) head of aftersales Michael Yao Tsu-Wei said the company was proud to be recognised as the best among Nissan Aftersales dealers from across the region.

“To win three times since 2017 is a testament to our focused customer approach, dedication in service performance and team work.

“We will continue to improve and consistently provide our customers with highest service support to improve customer satisfaction,” said Yao.

Edaran Tan Motor (ETCM) sales and marketing director Christopher Tan said the award sets a new milestone for the Company.

“The teams, especially aftersales, have consistently challenged and go beyond their best efforts to provide excellent services to our customers. I would like to thank the teams for their continuous support and hard work,” he said.

Nissan Service Centres Continue Operation, Warranties Remain Active All Nissan service centres are operating as usual in the Phase 1 and 2 of National Recovery Plan (NRP) period, except for those within the Enhanced Movement Control Order (EMCO) affected areas.

Services will be rendered via appointment only that can be made beforehand via DriveOn mobile app, www.tceas.com, Nissan Customer Care Centre Hotline at 1800-88-3838 or contact directly to the operating service centre.

Customers are encouraged to select the nearest service centre to abide by the travelling regulations.

Existing warranties will remain valid even if the preventive maintenance service cannot be performed during Phase 1 and 2 of NRP period.


Mazda begins gearbox production in Thailand

                HIROSHIMA: Mazda has announced that production of transmissions has begun at a new Thai plant.

The SKYACTIV-Drive automatic transmission produced at the Mazda Powertrain Manufacturing (Thailand) Co, Ltd in Chonburi province is one of Mazda’s new SKYACTIV Technologies that is said to offer driving pleasure and high environmental and safety performance.

Annual production capacity at the Thai plant is expected to be 400,000 units. The new plant, together with an existing plant in Japan, will raise Mazda’s annual production capacity to 1,540,000 units globally.

Transmissions produced in Thailand will be supplied to global production facilities including Auto Alliance (Thailand) to be used in the new Mazda2 (Mazda Demio in Japan), Mazda3 (Mazda Axela) and CX-5.

Mazda expects SKYACTIV models to account for over 85% of sales by fiscal year ending March 2016.


April 21-27: No change in fuel prices

                KUALA LUMPUR: The retail prices for RON97 and RON95 petrol and diesel will remain unchanged from April 21 until April 27.

The Ministry of Finance, in a statement, said the retail prices of RON97 and RON95 petrol would remain unchanged at RM3.81 and RM2.05 per litre respectively while the price of diesel remains at RM2.15 per litre.

The new price is based on the weekly retail price of petroleum products in accordance with the Automatic Pricing Mechanism formula.


Innovative MBUX system introduced for Mercedes-Benz V-Class and Marco Polo

                STUTTGART: The Mercedes-Benz V-Class facelift along with the Marco Polo and Marco Polo HORIZON camper can be ordered together with the intuitive and self-learning MBUX multimedia system.

What's more, from the end of 2019, newly ordered Marco Polo vehicles will come as standard with Mercedes-Benz Advanced Control (MBAC). This innovative interface module turns the compact camper van with a star into a connected home on wheels.

"Digitalisation and connectivity are important components of our product strategy. By integrating the MBUX multimedia system familiar from Mercedes-Benz passenger cars, we are making the cockpit of our MPV and Marco Polo models based on the V-Class even more comfortable," explains Klaus Maier, Head of Marketing and Sales at Mercedes-Benz Vans.

 The new Mercedes-Benz Marco Polo.

"And for camping enthusiasts, we have an additional special highlight. We are thrilled to be able to offer the Marco Polo in future as standard with Mercedes-Benz Advanced Control. With that our customers are able to travel in a mobile "smart home"; meaning they are able to centrally control various components within the living area, such as the lights or heating, for example with their smartphone."

The central element of the MBUX multimedia system is its intuitive operating concept and most notably its voice control system. It recognises almost any imaginable sentence concerning the areas of infotainment and vehicle operation.

With the MBUX multimedia generation, Mercedes me connect services also achieve a new dimension in terms of their quality, thus improving the overall connectivity experience in and around the V-Class, Marco Polo and Marco Polo HORIZON.

Among the services are the free basic services Maintenance Management, Accident Recovery and Breakdown Management, not to mention Telediagnostics and Remote Vehicle Diagnostics.

MBAC makes it possible to connect the following aspects in the living area of the Marco Polo, all of which can be conveniently controlled from a central location such as the fill levels of the water tanks, the charge level of the auxiliary battery, setting the temperature of the coolbox, setting the warm-air auxiliary heating, controlling the electrically extendible pop-up roof, controlling the electric sliding sunroof, controlling the Jehnert sound system and controlling the main and ambient lighting.


BMW Malaysia clearing out spruced-up 330e and X5 PHEVs

                CYBERJAYA: BMW Malaysia today introduced the F30 330e M Performance Edition and F15 X5 xDrive40e M Performance Edition, while keeping the prices unchanged.

Both locally assembled plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) are equipped with M Performance accessories. Only 300 units are offered for each model with the 330e going for RM258,800 (on the road, without insurance) and the X5 xDrive40e at RM390,800.

Today's announcement, coming a day after BMW's stellar 2018 sales results, also signals that the all-new G20 3 Series and G05 X5 will make landfall this year. BMW will announce the launch dates soon enough. It is standard practice to dress up outgoing models before the new ones come in. And for those who don't need the latest, such outgoing models could prove to be attractive purchases.

The 330e plug-in hybrid now features sportier aerodynamics and aesthetics with the addition of M Performance side skirts, side sill foils, and front grilles in high-gloss black, as well as the lightweight M Performance Carbon mirror caps for the side mirrors.

The vehicle features a front attachment in Matt Black, a rear spoiler and a rear diffuser, in addition to the aggressive M Performance dark tail lights that round up the athletic look.

The interior, meanwhile, is equipped with M Performance stainless steel pedals and footrests.

The exterior colour offerings for the 330e M Performance Edition include Sunset Orange, Black Sapphire, Estoril Blue or Alpine White; while the interior is decked out in Black Dakota Leather.

The X5, meanwhile, gets similar M Performance kit along with carbon front attachment and a rear spoiler in high-gloss black and carbon rear diffuser.

Inside, there's also stainless steel pedals. The X5 plug-in hybrid comes in Carbon Black, Mineral White or Space Grey. All exterior colour offerings are paired with Black Dakota Leather, whereas Carbon Black offers an additional option of Terra Dakota Leather.

READ MORE:
BMW G20 330e plug-in hybrid revealed
CarSifu went to Atlanta in 2018 for first drive in BMW G05 X5 Dropping prices

BMW Group Malaysia is gearing up for the Chinese New Year period with reduced prices on selected models.

They are the 318i Luxury, 530i M Sport, 630i GT and X1 sDrive 20i Sport. The X1 is updated with new designed wheels in the form of 18” Y Spoke Style 566 Alloy Wheels as well as a new exterior trim and roof rails in satinated aluminium.

The lower retail prices (on the road, without insurance) are as follows:

> BMW 318i Luxury RM198,800 (less RM4,000)
> BMW 530i M Sport RM372,800 (less RM7,000)
> BMW 630i GT RM430, 800 (less RM19,200)
> BMW X1 sDrive 20i Sport RM220, 800 (less RM7,000)

 The 6 Series GT.


GM says it is 'almost there' on million-mile electric vehicle battery

The Ultium battery pack. Current electric vehicle batteries typically last 100,000 to 200,000 miles (up to 320,000km).
DETROIT: General Motors Co is “almost there” on developing an electric vehicle battery that will last one million miles (1.6 million km), a top executive said on Tuesday.

The automaker also is working on next-generation batteries even more advanced than the new Ultium battery that it unveiled in March, according to GM executive vice president Doug Parks, who was speaking at an online investor conference.

He did not specify a timeline for introduction of the million-mile battery, but said “multiple teams” at GM are working on such advances as zero-cobalt electrodes, solid state electrolytes and ultra-fast charging.

Current electric vehicle batteries typically last 100,000 to 200,000 miles (up to 320,000km).

Reuters reported exclusively in early May that Tesla, in partnership with Chinese battery maker CATL, plans to introduce its own million-mile battery later this year or early next.

CATL provides battery cells to other vehicle manufacturers, and has supply agreements in China with GM and its local partner SAIC Motor.

GM unveiled its Ultium advanced battery system in March. On Tuesday, it said its US$2.3 billion battery production joint venture in Ohio with Korean partner LG Chem will be called Ultium Cells LLC.

GM and LG Chem are pursuing a variety of ways to reduce battery costs, Adam Kwiatkowski, executive chief engineer of GM’s electric propulsion systems, told another online investor conference on Tuesday.

The partners are investigating such initiatives as investing in mines, hedging metals prices and partnering with metals refiners, he said.

GM chief executive Mary Barra reiterated earlier this year that the automaker intends to sell 1 million electric vehicles a year in 2025 in the United States and China.


Land Rover Discovery to appear ahead of local launch

                PETALING JAYA: The new fifth-generation Land Rover Discovery (L462) sport utility vehicle (SUV) will be making an appearance ahead of its official launch that's expected to be in January, 2018.

During the preview, Jaguar Land Rover Malaysia will be taking orders for the new British-made SUV and has chosen to power it with a 3.0-litre Td6 (turbodiesel V6) AJD engine mated to an eight-speed ZF automatic transmission.

Other engine variants include a 2.0-litre I4 Ingenium turbodiesel, 3.0-litre AJ126 V6 supercharged petrol engine and a 5.0--litre AJ-133 supercharged V8 (SVX).

With a kerb heft of 2,230kg (2,193kg - petrol), the new Discovery has a wheelbase of 2,923mm (+38mm) and comes in measuring 4,970mm-long (+132mm), 2,073mm-wide (+51mm) and 1,888mm-tall (+47mm).

The latest Discovery will be equipped with the brand's second-generation Terrain Response system that allows its driver to select auto (new), snow, grass, gravel, mud ruts, sand, or rock crawling with a twist of dial.

Much like the L405 Range Rover, it uses aluminium for its chassis and revised body panels - allowing it to shed up to 480kg while increasing torsional rigidity simultaneously over its predecessor. It's newfound aerodynamic efficiency also helps to improve fuel consumption.

The cabin has been equipped with five ISOFIX mounting points which includes the third row seats as well, along with precise finishes and high quality materials.

As part of its special preview, visitors will be offered a 360-degree experience of the vehicle via a Virtual Reality Experience kit - allowing patrons to experience animations to help bring it to life.

The Discovery was first introduced in 1989 at the Frankfurt Motor Show, and will be previewed from Nov 9-12 at Hall C (Booth 69) of the Malaysia Agro Exposition Park Serdang.


MINIfest returns with The 60 Years Special

                PETALING JAYA: MINI Malaysia invites MINIacs to celebrate 60 passionate years of MINI which is taking place on Sept 7, 2019 at the Indoor Arena of Bukit Kiara Equestrian & Country Resort.

MINI, the most sophisticated compact premium automotive brand in Malaysia will be hosting its second MINI-styled festival.

MINIfest The 60 Years Special is an exciting day of celebration to commemorate the brand’s 60th anniversary. There will be a host of exciting activities to welcome MINIacs this year, including: a special MINI-styled marketplace, delicious food from a variety of popular food trucks, live music performances as well as thrilling rides and games.

Early birds will also enjoy exclusive giveaways.

The highlight of MINIfest The 60 Years Special is the new anniversary-exclusive MINI 60 Years Edition on display, along with MINI Classic cars.

Test drives will also be available throughout the day for 10 different MINI models, including the MINI Cooper S 3 Door, MINI Cooper S 5 Door, MINI John Cooper Works Clubman as well as the MINI Cooper S Countryman Pure that was unveiled this year.

The MINIfest will be held on Saturday, Sept 7, 2019 at Indoor Arena of Bukit Kiara Equestrian & Country Resort, Kuala Lumpur from noon to 7pm.


Porsche 911 GT2 RS unleashed from RM2.9mil

                SEPANG: Sime Darby Auto Performance (SDAP), the authorised importer of Porsche in Malaysia, has unveiled the visceral 911 GT2 RS (991.2) at the Sepang International Circuit.

At 1,470kg - wet weight with full fuel tank, the new GT2 is priced from RM2.9mil (including all applicable duties except registration fee, road tax and insurance) and is accompanied by a four-year warranty as well as the title: The most powerful Porsche ever built.

The rear-mounted 3.8-litre (3,800cc) flat-six engine from the 911 Turbo S now comes with enlarged twin-turbochargers (with variable turbine geometry) to produce 700PS (+80PS)  at 7,000rpm as well as 750Nm (+50Nm) of torque from 2,500rpm before red-lining at 7,200rpm. The engine's combined fuel consumption is rated at 11.8 litres per 100km with CO2 emissions at 269g/km.

While at speed, the GT2’s aerodynamics is able to generate up to 312kg (front - 105kg, rear -207kg) and can be up-rated for the track use to 416kg (front - 145kg and rear - 271kg).

Power is delivered exclusively to the rear wheels (with rear-axle steering) and is managed by a reinforced seven-speed PDK (Porsche Doppelkupplung - double clutch) with paddle-shifters to handle the extra ‘twist’.

This helps the GT2 to get up to 100kph from standstill in 2.8 seconds before reaching a top speed of 340kph.

Due to the extra power, the German sports car maker had to re-calibrate the Porsche Stability Management system with Sport mode to handle the excess power.

As standard, the car uses magnesium for its roof, Gorilla Glass for the front windshield, polycarbonate rear and side windows, polyurethane front and rear aprons, carbon fibre reinforced plastic (CFRP) for the hood (with NACA ducts) and rear wing, titanium for the rear silencer (-7kg) as well as ceramic composite brake system (identified by yellow calipers) to help keep it lightweight.

To take weight-savings a notch higher, a Weissach Package is available as an optional extra (RM138,000) that reduces its total weight down by almost 27kg (26.7kg) to 1,443kg.

This means, the roof (-0.5kg), anti-roll bars, coupling rods on both axles (-5.3kg) and paddle shifters (-0.2kg) have been swapped out for CFRP parts while the wheels (-11.5kg) are now made out of magnesium.

Also included are lightweight carpets with cutouts (-0.2kg) and a titanium roll-cage (-9kg), while the luggage compartment lid (at the front) and roof get a wide stripe in matching body colour down the centre.

For audio, navigation and communication purposes, the Porsche Communication Management (PCM) system has been fitted as standard and has been added with a Connect Plus module and a Porsche Track Precision app with lap trigger which uses external markers on the start / finish straight.

An optional Chrono Package expands the PCM function to include a performance display to help track-goers display, save and evaluate track times, while adding a digital-analogue stopwatch on the switch panel.

“The 911 GT2 RS is not only the most powerful, but also the fastest 911 ever built. It has the performance level of a super sports car and has set a new record for road-approved sports cars on the 20.6km Nürburgring Nordschleife (Nurburg circuit - North loop) at six minutes and 47.3 seconds,” said SDAP chief executive officer Arnt Bayer.

 Arnt with the newly launched Porsche 911 GT2 RS (991.2) fitted with the optional Weissach RS package.

Purchasing the GT2 also means that new owners will receive their very own Porsche Design ‘special-issue’ calibre 01.200 titanium watch, which can be ordered at the Porsche Centre.

The watch took designers three years to develop and comes with a flyback function, load-path-optimised movement bridge and an official Contrôle Officiel Suisse des Chronomètres (COSC) certificate of authenticity.

Both vehicle and watch are produced individually (according to the customers’ preferences) and will be delivered simultaneously.


Triumph Tiger 850 Sport: Value-for-money prowler

                THE Triumph Tiger 850 Sport caught the attention of many adventure bike enthusiasts when it arrived in Malaysia.

The motorcycle, which features a 888cc three-cylinder engine, has good performance and robust quality like other Triumph Tiger models along with value for money price point compared with its segment rivals.

The bike weighs 217kg (wet weight) and the fuel capacity is 20 litres.

The sitting position of this bike is upright and the reach to the handlebars is relaxed.

There is no stress on the shoulders and arms.

The bike also comes with an adjustable seat height from 31.9 to 32.7 inch.

One thing I must admit, after four hours of riding the bike with one hour break in between, the ride was comfortable.

The saddle was firm and comfy, ideal for long rides.

The bike comes with a windscreen which could be adjusted easily while on the move.

I could ride the bike way beyond above the legal speed limit without my head bobbing around aimlessly, made possible when the windshield is at tallest setting.

In fact, during a heavy downpour, the windshield also protected me from the rain.

During my long ride or while waiting at the traffic lights, I did not feel any heat around my legs.

Although the heat disbursement was excellent, some journalists did complain about it.

From the time I thumbed the starter in the morning and after a five-hour of ride and back home late afternoon, I was mindful of the engine’s character.

The bike accelerates with very little effort, and it was easy for the engine to hit the 5,000rpm easily.

The hand clutch, gear and the throttle worked in unison offering the ultimate biking experience.

I only needed three fingers to pull in the clutch lever and the Tiger Sports 850 is at ease be it on the highways or the city traffic.

The engine is friendly and has no surprises. Every time I twisted the throttle, the power delivery is smooth with no sudden surge of power.

It is a pleasant experience that will put any new rider at ease as the engine offers a combination of wide band of power with good torque that is ideal for a middleweight adventure bike of this sort.

The Tiger 850 Sport comes with a smaller five-inch display screen unlike the Tiger 900 GT and Rally variants that get a seven-inch screen.

What I like about the screen is that it comes with four different graphic layouts.

The info on the screen is legible even on sunny days but I would have preferred for the info readout fonts to be a bit bigger.

Coming with Rain and Road riding modes, Rain reduces the throttle response but Road gave me the desired throttle response with no lag in power delivery.

The Tiger 850 Sport does not comes with the "bells and whistles" of more expensive bikes but gets at least riders’ aids such as traction control and anti-lock braking system.

You can disable the traction control but the ABS stays on permanently.

This bike tackles any corner with confidence and I did not have to work hard as it leans in naturally.

On a few tight twisties, I was quite impressed that I was able to maneuver confidently around 90kph.

The front comes with a Marzocchi fork which is non-adjustable but is set well and designed to remain in between soft and firm while tackling uneven roads.

Meanwhile, the Marzocchi rear shock, is preload-adjustable, which did well in all the corners and twisties while riding up to the Frasers Hill.

The Tiger 850 Sport is fitted with two Brembo Stylema four-piston calipers biting 320mm discs at the front and a single-piston caliper with a 255mm disc in the rear.

Feedback from the front calipers is better than the back, delivering good stopping power.

Kudos to the front forks where the braking is handled with care with a bit of dive.

The Tiger 850 Sports is an ideal adventure bike for any newbie as its power is easily controlled and basic features are sufficient to make its a value-for-money buy.

This RM59,900 bike is perfect for the daily commute and also as a touring bike for long trips.

SPECIFICATIONSTriumph Tiger 850 SportEngine: 888cc, DOHC, liquid-cooled inline three-cylinder, 12 valves
Maximum power: 84hp at 8,500rpm
Maximum torque: 82Nm at 6,500rpm
Transmission: Six-speed
Suspension: Front Marzocchi 45mm inverted fork; rear Marzocchi monoshock, preload adjustable
Braking system: Front Brembo Stylema four-piston calipers, dual 320mm floating discs with ABS; rear Brembo single piston sliding caliper, 255mm disc with ABS
Fuel capacity: 20 litres
Wet weight: 217kg
Price: RM59,900 (without registration, road tax and insurance)


BMW Motorrad presents autonomous riding BMW R 1200 GS.

MUNICH: If cars can do it, so can motorcycles. We are talking self-riding bikes here.

It's even more unsettling for an autonomous bike as one can obviously see it has no rider as it speeds forward and weaves around as if ridden by a ghostly figure.

BMW Motorrad's first autonomous bike was presented last week at the BMW Motorrad Techday 2018.

A BMW R 1200 GS made its first rounds in front of assembled journalists, as if by magic, at the BMW Group testing ground in Miramas, southern France.

Developed by graduate engineer Stefan Hans and his team, the vehicle independently rides off, accelerates, circles a winding test track and independently slows down to a stop.

BMW Motorrad said the proof of concept is not meant to introduce an autonomous bike per se but use it as a platform for development of future systems and functions to make motorcycling even safer, more comfortable and increase the riding pleasure.

The aim of the prototype was to gather additional knowledge with regards driving dynamics in order to detect dangerous situations early on and thus support the driver with appropriate safety systems while turning at intersections or when braking suddenly, for example.

With BMW bikes bought mainly by rich middle-aged men, we could see such autonomous tech coming in useful in other ways. Like when such riders suffer a heart attack or a blackout and sensors on the bike are able to assist in quickly rolling the bike to a safe stop by the kerb and calling out for emergency aid with GPS co-ordinates included.

Apart from the impressive autonomous riding demo, BMW Motorrad also presented other exciting technology projects.

Luminous motorcycle headlights from cornering lights to laser headlights were highlights as well as a motorcycle frame made completely using a 3D printing process, including a rear swing arm.

 3D-printing is in vogue among car and bike makers. Here BMW Motorrad shows off complex components using the S 1000 RR.


Four classic Porsche Spyders going under the hammer at Pebble Beach

                SAN FRANCISCO: The place to be this month for lovers of classic cars is Pebble Beach for Monterey Car Week. Porsche fans with the requisite funds have the chance to buy four incredible rare Spyder models to be auctioned off by Gooding and Company at its 15th Annual Pebble Beach Auction.

The four models being put up for sale cover 52 years of Porsche production. One is a race car that has never been offered for sale to the public before. It's a relatively new car, but a model any Porsche collector would like to get their hands on.

The model in question is a 2007 Porsche RS Spyder LMP2 prototype race car that was entered in a number of endurance events in the early years of its life. The RS Spyders won consecutive IMSA LMP Championships, an overall win at Sebring, and class wins at Le Mans. The V8 engine that powered it was used as part of the hybrid powertrain in the incredible Porsche 918 Spyder.

This particular example with chassis 9R6.706 was originally sold to CET Solaroli Motorsports in Florida. Not surprisingly, Gooding and Company isn't offering any official estimates of what it's expected to sell for.

A much older model, and the oldest of these four Porsches, is the 1955 550 Spyder with chassis number 550-0053 originally sold to a private racer in California. The current owner has had the car for 20 years, during which time it's largely been out of the public eye. It's estimated to bring between US$4million and US$5million when it goes across the block.

Probably costing a little less at an estimate of between US$3.6million and US$4.1million, the third of the quartet is a 1959 718 RSK Spyder that is one of just 34 ever built. As well as the 1959 24 Hours of Les Mans, this car's pedigree also includes completing the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb and several SCCA events early in the 1960s.

If the previous three are a little out of your price range, the last of the four is probably the most affordable option. It's a one-off 1966 911 Spyder created by Bertone as a possible forerunner of a full production convertible 911. Porsche displayed this one at the 1966 Geneva Motor Show, but instead went with the 911 Targa. It's still not a cheap car by any means - it's expected to go for between US$700,000 and US$1million.


Ghosn predicted Nissan will go bankrupt by 2022, says lawyer

                TOKYO: Nissan will go bankrupt within two to three years, Carlos Ghosn told a defence attorney during more than 10 hours of interviews before the auto executive skipped bail and left Japan.

The former chairman and chief executive officer of Nissan Motor Co. and Renault SA made the prediction last year in a series of conversations about his arrest and prosecution, said Nobuo Gohara, a former prosecutor who also is a vocal critic of Japan’s justice system.

"He told me that Nissan will probably go bankrupt within two to three years,” said Gohara, who held a news conference here today to discuss his conversations with the now-fugitive auto titan. Ghosn didn’t offer detailed reasons Nissan would run into difficulties, according to the lawyer.

Azusa Momose, a spokesman for Nissan, declined to comment.

The Yokohama-based company is suffering from declining car sales in China and Europe, prompting it to slash profit and sales forecasts for the fiscal year ending March 31 and say it would eliminate 12,500 jobs globally.

Gohara said he met with and interviewed Ghosn five times during a two-month period, just before the former auto executive fled, for a book he planned to publish before the start of Ghosn’s trial, which no longer is likely to happen. Gohara last met with Ghosn two days before his December escape to Beirut.

The attorney said he had permission from Ghosn to disclose the details of their conversations.

Gohara regularly comments on issues surrounding the Japanese justice system in his blog and TV appearances. Since Ghosn’s arrest, he’s also criticized what he calls Japan’s "hostage justice” system and the country’s recent introduction of plea bargaining.

The 65-year-old Ghosn, speaking earlier this month from Beirut, said he fled Japan because he no longer thought he would have a fair and speedy trial.

The former executive was facing several charges of financial misconduct, including underreporting his income and breach of trust. In the latter charges, Japanese prosecutors accused him of transferring personal trading losses to Nissan and using company funds for his own and his family’s gains.

Ghosn insisted he was the victim of a conspiracy to take him out because he was working on a merger of Nissan and alliance partner Renault. Mitsubishi Motors Corp. is the third member.

"Nissan and prosecutors worked together to bring a criminal case against Ghosn,” Gohara said in Tokyo.

Greg Kelly, a former executive in the Nissan CEO’s office, was arrested the same day as Ghosn and now is likely to face charges of financial misconduct alone.

Kelly’s chances of proving his innocence are good, Gohara said, "because the same issues are at stake for both Kelly and Ghosn. Kelly’s exoneration will mean Ghosn is also innocent.”

Ghosn spent a total of almost 130 days in a Tokyo jail and was contemplating trial in a country where prosecutors virtually never lose.

He was freed on bail last year under strict conditions, such as not being able to communicate with his wife and only being allowed to use a computer in his lawyer’s office.


McLaren adds Sport Pack and Design Editions for 570GT

                LONDON: In case a McLaren 570GT isn't quite desirable enough as it is to tempt you to take the plunge and buy one, the British supercar manufacturer is enhancing the Sport Series even further with the addition of a new Sport Pack and Design Editions for the 570GT.

The McLaren Sports Series models will now offer greater choice of specification and an enhanced range of options as the company brings in new features to upgrade its Coupé and GT models to bring them more inline with the 570S Spider that was launched last year.

Of the cars being upgraded, the 570GT gets the lion's share of the new goodies with carbon-ceramic brake discs now part of the standard equipment, and the introduction of the Sport Pack, which lets buyers specify a 570GT with the same dynamic settings as the 570S Coupé and Spider.

The 570GT is a model that offers a more relaxed drive than the 570S Coupé partly due to lowered suspension spring rate stiffness and a 2 percent reduction in steering ratio for improved stability at greater speeds. Those who prefer the idea of a car tailored more towards a GT driving experience will welcome this combination, but some buyers have requested that the sharper, more precise dynamic behavior of the 570S Coupé be made available with the GT body style too.

The Sport Pack for the 570GT addresses these demands with a number of component and calibration changes, which include the steering rack, damper actuators and uprights that are already found on the Coupé and Spider. Also, the adaptive damping, steering and Electronic Stability Control are all the same 'S' tune.

Add in a set of Pirelli P-Zero Corsa tyres that are also included as part of the Sport Pack, and the result is a driving experience the same as the 570S Coupé and Spider for a relatively modest extra investment.

Five new Design Edition Packs are also now available for the 570GT. The packs bring together popular exterior colours with the By McLaren luxury design interior that best complement them, but for a significantly lower financial outlay than if specifying them separately.

The new Design Editions are: Silica White exterior with Saddle Tan and Carbon Black interior, Pacific Blue with Jet Black and Areia, Blade Silver with Natural Tan and Carbon Black, Fire Black with Jet Black and Areia, and Storm Grey with Jet Black and Almond White.


US safety agency to jumpstart revamp of new car rating programme

                WASHINGTON: The US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) said Wednesday it is reviving a long-stalled effort to overhaul the five-star crash rating programme for all new vehicles.

In 2015, under President Barack Obama, NHTSA proposed requiring automakers to add crash avoidance technologies to gain top, five-star ratings as part of its New Car Assessment Programme (NCAP). Those changes were set to start in the 2019 model year but have been on hold as the auto safety agency held additional public hearings.

NHTSA’s acting chief, James Owens, said in a statement Wednesday the agency would propose “propose significant updates and upgrades” in 2020 “by creating additional market-based incentives for automakers to continue investing in innovative safety technologies that will save lives and prevent injuries.”

A group plans to hold a press conference here today, criticising NHTSA’s failure to update the ratings. The National Transportation Safety Board has recommended pedestrian collision avoidance systems and forward collision avoidance systems to be added to the programme.

Critics note the vast majority of new vehicles achieve four or five-star ratings, making it difficult for consumers to differentiate between vehicles.

NHTSA said potential changes include “new test procedures, updates to vehicle labeling, advancements in crash-test dummies... and new technologies tied to the safety of pedestrians and other vulnerable road users such as cyclists.”

The 2015 proposal sought to prod automakers to add advanced technologies including forward collision warning, lane departure warning, blind-spot detection, lower beam head lighting, semi-automatic headlamp beam switching, amber rear turn signals, rear automatic braking and pedestrian automatic emergency braking and to factor those in to setting the ratings of up to five stars.

The Alliance of Automobile Manufacturers, a trade group representing General Motors Co, Volkswagen AG, Toyota Motor Corp and others, told NHTSA last year “it is important that any new additions to NCAP significantly increase real-world safety. If not, they will only increase vehicle cost without any commensurate real-world safety benefit.”

Automakers covet five-star ratings, so new rules could effectively require manufacturers to make technology currently offered as pricey options on some vehicles standard equipment on all vehicles.

NHTSA in 2015 proposed adding a new frontal crash test, new pedestrian crashworthiness testing and add two new advanced crash test dummies.

The tests are only to set crash ratings included on new car window stickers - not for crash tests needed for US vehicles to be legally sold.


Rossi joins four wheel champions in elite club

                LONDON:  Italian MotoGP great Valentino Rossi has become the first motorcycle rider to be invited to join the exclusive British Racing Drivers' Club (BRDC) purely on his two-wheeled achievements.

The club, which owns the Silverstone circuit and includes motorcycle and Formula One world champion John Surtees among drivers like Lewis Hamilton and Jackie Stewart, said on Wednesday that Rossi had accepted an honorary membership.

"Valentino is without any doubt one of the greatest motorcycle riders ever in a sport that has played an extremely important part in Silverstone's history," said Surtees, a BRDC vice-president.

Rossi, currently level on points with Yamaha team mate Jorge Lorenzo at the top of the championship, will be competing in the British MotoGP round at Silverstone on Aug 28-30.

Known as "The Doctor", the Italian has won nine motorcycle grand prix world championships including seven in the top category.


Made in Germany MINI coming in 2023

                LEIPZIG: In 2023 the first MINI to be made in Germany will roll off the assembly lines at BMW Group Plant Leipzig.

This follows a decision by the BMW Group for the production of the all-new successor to the current MINI Countryman will be contracted out to the facility in Saxony, making it the BMW Group’s first German site to produce both BMW and MINI vehicles.

As it will be manufacturing both the combustion and electric powered versions of the forthcoming MINI crossover, Plant Leipzig has been the subject of an investment programme to ensure suitable expansion of its production capacity, including e-drive component assembly.

The realignment of the MINI product portfolio will see the brand strengthen its commitment to electromobility and the crossover segment, which continues to grow around the world.

The successor to the popular MINI Countryman will come with a choice of front or all-wheel drive, with highly efficient petrol or diesel engines, or an all-electric drive.

BMW Group Plant Leipzig will launch production of the forthcoming generation of crossovers for the premium compact segment in 2023.

“Over the last few years, we have worked continuously to lead our plant into a successful future. This contract to produce the successor to the MINI Countryman gives us another major milestone to work towards,” says Hans-Peter Kemser, Director of BMW Group Plant Leipzig.

“It is clear evidence of the company’s faith in our expertise and our site, and fantastic news for the future of our plant.”


Malaysia aims to be major biofuel supplier

                KUALA LUMPUR: As one the world’s major palm oil producers, Malaysia will continue to play a major role in ensuring that palm oil remains a sustainable and eco-friendly fuel replacement for the world markets, said Minister of International Trade and Industry, Datuk Darell Leiking.

“Palm oil is a viable option to reduce our dependency on fossil fuels, as it has tremendous potential as a renewable source of energy.

“As the largest exporter and second largest producer of the palm oil in the world, we sit in a position to ensure that this commodity evolves into an industry that brings such benefits to the global markets, in particular the energy and transportation ecosystem”, he said.

Biofuels have recently received significant attention as a viable replacement for fossil fuels.

Apart from its potential as a leading fossil fuel replacement, biofuels are sourced from planted crops, allowing its production to be planned, harvested and renewed sustainably compared to fossil fuels that take millions of years to form and are becoming increasingly scarce.

Furthermore, they have carbon-neutral properties, as planted sources of fuel consume carbon dioxide as they grow, offsetting its carbon footprint during its consumption.


Aurrigo develops autonomous pod for the visually impaired

                LONDON: A company called Aurrigo is launching a beta test for driverless pods in collaboration with Blind Veterans UK to transport residents with visual impairments around their rehabilitation campus.

UK-based driverless pod manufacturer Aurrigo announced this week that it has developed an autonomous pod specially designed for those who are blind.

In collaboration with Blind Veterans UK, the driverless PodZeroes begin undergoing testing this spring at the rehabilitation centre, ferrying up to four former soldiers at once from place to place at 24kph.

The PodZero has been outfitted with lighting brighter than that in a typical transport vehicle while it has been finished with prominent colours on the seating and rails.

Not only does Aurrigo hope that this type of solution will benefit the visually disabled at this centre, but also that it could be a "long-term solution to improve the independence of people that have mobility issues."

This six-month test is a precursor to this type of specialized mobility allowing the company to observe and assess how the visually impaired riders work with the pod and how it functions in the real world. Improvements needed will then be implemented in the next generation of the model.

Aurrigo's pod officially begins beta testing this April and continues for the following six months.


VW to hire over 1,000 IT experts

                WOLFSBURG: The Volkswagen Group is on an IT-recruitment bend as it moves into vehicle electrification and autonomous driving.

It is hiring over the next three years more than 1,000 IT experts with know-how in artificial intelligence, big data, virtual reality, smart production and connectivity.

The IT experts will include those from the gaming industry and top-level research.

Half of these people will be employed in Wolfsburg. They will work in the core IT organisation at the company's headquarters as well as in IT labs in Wolfsburg, Berlin and Munich.

Volkswagen said these labs are creating new solutions in the fields of big data, Industry 4.0, the Internet of things, connectivity, mobility services and virtual reality.

Over the past few months, Volkswagen Group IT has already recruited from a variety of sectors and countries – including robotics experts, level designers, design thinking experts, and AI research workers.

“People who want to shape the future of mobility are coming to Volkswagen,” said Dr Karlheinz Blessing, Member of the Board of Management of the Volkswagen Group in charge of Human Resources.

“We are tackling the major challenges of the future with the best people: digitalisation, software development, E-mobility, autonomous driving and mobility services. For these fields, we are reinforcing our team with top-class experts."


Leipzig auto show scrapped on flurry of auto-maker cancellations

                LEIPZIG: Organisers of a car show in eastern Germany's Leipzig on Monday scrapped the bi-annual gathering after several exhibitors dropped out.

"In there last few days there has been an unprecedented development -- many car manufacturers cancelled their participation in quick succession," said Martin Buhl-Wagner, who heads the Leipzig exhibition.

"That leaves us with no other option but to cancel the show," he added.

Twenty-two car manufacturers were registered for the AMI exhibition in early February, but 13 of them withdrew their participation two months before the show.

Volker Lange, who heads the association VDIK that represents car manufacturers in Germany, said the sudden cancellations may have come as "many car manufacturers are developing new sales and marketing strategies, which include alternative communication concepts".

French car maker Renault said it had dropped out because of the weak attendance of other manufacturers.

The exhibition, which was launched 25 years ago, attracted 242,000 visitors during its previous edition in 2014.


Uber will now check up on you if your ride stops for too long

                SAN FRANCISCO: Uber has published a video to YouTube illustrating its newly launched RideCheck feature, an app tool that checks in on passengers if their ride has been stopped for a while.

To add to the suite of native, in-app safety features, Uber announced this week that it has rolled out another one, designed to ease and hasten a passenger's access to emergency services.

In the event that there's an unexpected pause on a trip, Uber will automatically send a push notification to the passenger's smartphone asking if everything is okay. Tapping on the alert will allow users to either cancel the notification or press "Safety" to open a menu of help options which includes 911 Assistance, Call Uber Safety Line, and Share My Trip.

If the app detects that a crash possibly happened, Uber will reach out to ask: "Were you involved in a crash?" If a user taps "yes," they will be prompted with buttons like 911 Assistance, Report a crash, and Insurance Hub.

RideCheck alerts can optionally be deactivated if deemed by the user unnecessary.

This feature started rolling out Monday alongside existing safety tools within the app including Trusted Contacts, Driver Hour Limits, the Safety Toolkit.


The changing face of compact cars: Even small must get bigger

                BERLIN: Automobiles tend to get bigger with every generation, and compact cars aren't exempt from this rule. In Europe and other markets, however, compact cars have tended to be the second choice, a spare to take to the city.

Now, more buyers are choosing to make small cars their primary go-to, says auto trends expert Ferdinand Dudenhoeffer of the University of St Gallen in Switzerland.

“For a family of three, a compact car is an attractive option, as you can also take it on holiday with your luggage,” he says.

Following a long trend of ever-growing SUVs, small and compact cars are now also getting higher and wider.

"Big, bigger, biggest seems to be the maxim," Dudenhoeffer says. The additional interior space in a small car can serve a small family well.

Another growing trend in the auto industry is electric cars, and nowhere is this more obvious than in small city runabouts.

The new wave of so-called plug-in hybrids is a way for automakers to get their fleets’ average emissions down, Dudenhoeffer says. He believes the plug-in hybrid is an interim solution for manufacturers who don’t yet have the capability to build purely electric cars.

"If you don't have the electric platform yet, you feel your way around with a few plug-in hybrid vehicles and hope that that will be enough to achieve the targets," he says.

"Some automakers are also putting a lot of pressure on their dealerships to get these cars into the market with high sales targets."

Dudenhoeffer points out that the extra weight plug-in hybrid vehicles must carry is a big disadvantage. In addition to the combustion engine, they have an electric motor as well as a battery on board to be charged externally with a plug.

Stopping to find a power socket every 50km or 60km isn’t an ideal scenario, he says. Hybrid systems without plugs make more sense for small and compact cars.

He believes fully electric cars are a better option. Modern small and compact electric cars offer ranges of around 300km. starting at around US$30,000 (RM132,000). That's a bit more pricy, but many countries offer large rebates or incentives for consumers buying electric cars.

And the numbers might look better very soon: Dacia, known as a price breaker, is the first manufacturer to announce a low-cost electric car, to be released in 2021.

Notepad


Pakistan plant a boost for Proton

Alhaj Group Pakistan CEO Hilal Khan signing the deal for the Karachi plant with Proton's international sales director Steven Xu in Islamabad last Friday.
PETALING JAYA: Proton Holdings Bhd, a 51%-owned subsidiary of DRB-Hicom Bhd, has been on a roll with its latest plan to set up an assembly factory in Pakistan.

The carmaker, which has been struggling in past years due to declining sales, is seeing signs of recovery following the emergence of China-based Geely which acquired a 49.9% stake in Proton in 2017.

In a statement reply to StarBiz, Zhejiang Geely Holding Group said the move to set up a factory in South Asia was “part of Geely’s commitment to help restore Proton to its position as a bestselling brand in Malaysia and also a leading Asean brand.”

Proton setting up factory in Pakistan will be its first facility in South Asia, tapping into a new market with a population of 210 million.

The plant will be a joint effort between the Malaysian carmaker and its local partner Alhaj Automotive.

The research house reckons that Proton may not need to pump fresh capital expenditure into the plant in Pakistan as Proton will not own it. This would, in turn, benefit DRB-Hicom in the long term.

“Al-Haj had already acquired land for an assembly plant for Proton cars nearby Port Qasim area in Karachi.

Al-Haj will own the assembly plant by itself, while Proton will provide the necessary technical support to Al-Haj,” HLIB said.

It reckons that Al-Haj is the exclusive authorised distributor and assembler of Proton vehicles in Pakistan, following an official signing ceremony back in August 2018. It was reported back then that Al-Haj planned to introduce modern and high tech vehicles in different categories including entry level sedans, mid-level sedans, crossovers/SUVs, MPV and hatchbacks in Pakistan.

“We are positive with the new Proton plant set-up in Pakistan, in order to cater to the local Pakistan market, as well as potentially, the regional South Asia market.

“We understand that Proton will not incur capex for the Pakistan assembling plant, as Proton does not own the plant,” HLIB said in its recent report.

It maintained its “buy” call on DRB-Hicom with a target price of RM2.58 on the back of strong demand from Proton’s first SUV model, the X70, which set a precedent to the next model launches by Proton.

“We believe the strong demand for Proton’s new X70 will provide confidence to the market on Proton’s subsequent new model launches (based on Geely platform),” HLIB said.

Three months ago, Proton launched its first SUV model, the X70, which has boosted the carmaker sales significantly.

Proton’s sales rose 42% year-on-year to 12,300 units in the first 2 months, of which almost half was from SUV X70 sales.

The SUV X70 sales had also boosted DRB-Hicom earnings.

The group recorded a net profit of RM73.02mil for its third quarter ended Dec 31, 2018, compared with a net loss of RM70.03mil in the previous corresponding period, due to better operating financial performances from all of its business divisions.

Revenue in the third quarter rose to RM3.17bil from RM2.9bil a year earlier.

“The higher revenue was contributed by the better performance of the automotive companies, including the sale of the X70 SUV by Proton, which was launched in December 2018,” DRB-Hicom said.


Stop 'wasting time', build ventilators to address Covid-19, Trump tells GM

A ventilator is seen at the New York City Emergency Management Warehouse, where 400 ventilators arrived and before being shipped out for distribution. — Reuters
WASHINGTON/DETROIT: US President Donald Trump on Friday invoked emergency powers to require General Motors Co to build much-needed ventilators for coronavirus patients after he accused the largest US automaker of “wasting time” during negotiations.

Trump, who has been on the defensive for not moving faster to compel the production of medical equipment, for the first time invoked the Defence Production Act, saying GM was not moving quickly enough even though earlier on Friday the largest US automaker announced it would begin building ventilators in the coming weeks.

Asked about negotiations with GM over ventilators, Trump expressed anger with the company’s decision to close an assembly plant in politically important Ohio. He also criticised GM’s prior decisions to build plants outside the United States.

“I didn’t go into it with a favourable view,” Trump told a news conference of the GM talks. White House adviser Peter Navarro said the administration ran into “roadblocks” with GM this week.

GM said in a statement in response to Trump that it has been working with ventilator firm Ventec Life Systems and GM suppliers “around the clock for over a week to meet this urgent need” and said its commitment to Ventec’s ventilators “has never wavered.”

The act grants the president power to expand industrial production of any key materials or products for national security and other reasons.

New York governor Andrew Cuomo and other Democrats have urged him to invoke the act, but the president had been reluctant to do so until now.

Democratic US Senator Ed Markey said, “About time. Now, tell us every day: which companies will be making more of this equipment, how much is being made, and where the equipment is going.”

On Friday, the number of confirmed coronavirus cases in the United States topped 100,000, the highest in the world according to a Reuters tally. The US death toll topped 1,550.

Trump also said countries such as Britain, Germany, Spain and Italy need ventilators and that if the excess volume is not needed, the United States can export them.

Earlier, Trump lashed out at GM and Ford Motor Co for moving too slowly just hours before GM said it would build medical equipment at an Indiana plant.

Trump criticised the US automakers and said he expected the United States would make or obtain 100,000 additional ventilators within the next 100 days.

The attack on the automakers coincided with rising tension between Trump and the Democratic governors of New York and Michigan, who have criticised the administration’s response to the Covid-19 pandemic.

On Thursday evening, Trump questioned in an interview on the Fox News network whether New York state needed 30,000 ventilators to cope with rising numbers of coronavirus patients, as Cuomo had said.

GM and Ford separately announced earlier this week they were working with medical equipment companies to help boost ventilator production.

GM and its partner Ventec confirmed after Trump’s tweets that the No. 1 US automaker would deploy 1,000 workers to build ventilators at its Kokomo, Indiana, parts plant and ship as soon as next month. It was aiming to build more than 10,000 per month with the ability to go higher. Suppliers in the effort were told the target was 200,000 ventilators.

But early Friday, before GM issued its release, Trump attacked the automaker and chief executive Mary Barra on Twitter, reviving his grievance with Barra for closing and selling a car factory in Ohio, a state critical to the president’s re-election campaign.

“General Motors MUST immediately open their stupidly abandoned Lordstown plant in Ohio, or some other plant, and START MAKING VENTILATORS, NOW!!!!!! FORD, GET GOING ON VENTILATORS, FAST!!!!!!” Trump wrote on Twitter on Friday.

“They said they were going to give us 40,000 much needed ventilators, ‘very quickly’,” Trump said on Twitter of GM and Ventec’s effort. “Now they are saying it will only be 6000, in late April, and they want top dollar.”

Trump’s comments about GM and Ford came after a New York Times story Thursday suggested the White House had backed away from announcing a major ventilator deal with GM and Ventec because the price tag was too high. That drew criticism from Democrats.

Following Trump’s tweets, Ford said it was moving as fast as it could to gear up its ventilator manufacturing efforts and was in “active conversations” with the Trump administration seeking approvals. Ford said it has “teams working flat-out with GE Healthcare to boost production of simplified ventilators.”

Other automakers have said they are working to produce ventilators, masks and other medical equipment. Outside the United States, Chinese, Indian and German car makers have separately announce their plans to make ventilators or parts for the machine. They include BYD, SAIC, GAC Motor of China; Mahindra of India; and Volkswagen of Germany.

On Friday, Toyota Motor Corp said it was “finalising agreements to begin working with at least two companies that produce ventilators and respirators to help increase their capacity.”

New York City mayor Bill be Blasio on Friday said on Twitter that Tesla Inc had agreed to donate hundreds of ventilators to hospital intensive care units in New York City and the state of New York.

Tesla chief executive Elon Musk in response said the electric carmaker was helping locate and deliver existing ventilators.

Tesla on Friday did not respond to a request for comment on where it got the ventilators and whether the company was producing any ventilators of its own, something Musk has said the company will do.

Fiat Chrysler Automobiles NV (FCA) and Ferrari previously said they were exploring making ventilators in Italy.


Ampang council acts to free up illegally 'booked' parking spaces

                KUALA LUMPUR: Traffic cones, flower pots and old chairs used to illegally hog parking bays were removed by Ampang Jaya Municipal Council (MPAJ) during a recent operation.

The items were confiscated by enforcement officers as they were found to be obstructing public spaces and roads.

“The operation was carried out at the Rumah Pangsa Kos Rendah 420 in Bandar Baru Ampang and Rumah Pangsa Kos Rendah Taman Bakti in Taman Cempaka following complaints.

“Those with similar issues can lodge a report via aduan.mpaj.gov.my or WhatsApp 019-266 8100,” it said in a social media post today.

The enforcement garnered positive reactions from the public, with some commenting that stern action should be taken against those who illegally reserve parking bays.

A frequent visitor to Pandan Mewah, Mohd Shahrul, said many bays were reserved by shopowners for their own use.

“Even on weekends and public holidays they leave chairs and other items, preventing others from using them,” he wrote.

One commenter said there should be notices warning the public of the potential repercussions of "reserving" parking spaces.

“The public can also use these signs to tell off those who are unaware.

“High fines should be imposed on offenders to prevent such situations from recurring,” he said.


New Mercedes A-Class to finally make its way to America

                STUTTGART: When the third-generation of the Mercedes-Benz A-Class was released, it soon became a big success everywhere it was sold. But despite the popularity of the smallest and most affordable model in the Mercedes range, the German luxury automaker refrained from offering it in the lucrative American market.

That's finally coming to an end though, as the latest redesign of the entry-level Mercedes is going to be made available to buyers in the US as the company believes it finally has a version that will appeal to US consumers.

It's probably because for the first time, Mercedes is going to offer a sedan version of the A-Class, and that's the one US dealers will be able to look forward to selling in the autumn of 2018 as a 2019 model year.

The timing could be seen as a little puzzling by some observers though. Firstly, US buyers are not exactly in love with small cars right now as crossovers dominate to such a point that the likes of the Dodge Dart and Chrysler 200 have already been completely discontinued.

 The A-Class sedan is previewed as the Concept A Sedan.READ MORE:
New A-Class cabin impressive
Concept A Sedan showcased

Secondly, although the US auto market has been more than a little resistant to hatchback body styles in the past, the likes of the latest Honda Civic and Chevrolet Bolt appear to be changing perceptions after now being offered as hatches as well as sedans.

But the global sales chief of Mercedes-Benz, Britta Seeger, says, "We truly believe that now with the body style we have the right answer for the market. It's a very attractive car for younger people – but not only for younger people – it can have a broad audience because it's a nice entrance into the Mercedes-Benz family."

The redesigned A-Class will be built on the company's MFA2 platform, which already underpins the likes of the CLA and GLA crossover, and the A-Class sedan for the American market is expected to be built at a Nissan-Daimler joint venture assembly facility to open in Mexico.


A Xmas windfall: Ferrari workers get 5,000 euro bonus after share sale

                MILAN: Luxury carmaker Ferrari is giving its employees a Christmas treat, awarding them a 5,000 euro (RM22,798) bonus each to thank them for this year's financial results and a successful Wall Street debut, a spokesman said.

The maker of supercars like the 1-million-euro hybrid LaFerrari, which is being spun off from parent Fiat Chrysler Automobiles , listed in New York in October and is due to start trading on the Milan bourse on Jan 4.

Ferrari, based in the northern Italian town of Maranello, has more than 2,850 employees.

The sale of a 10 percent stake in Ferrari raised US$982 million for the parent, while the overall windfall from the listing and spin-off is seen at more than US$4 billion.

The pay sweetener comes on top of other production-related bonuses the workers are due to receive for 2015.


Pirelli partners Italian car audio specialist in new hi-fi system

                MILAN: Pirelli has teamed up with Modena firm Ixoost to create a new sound experience with a motorsport edge.

The exclusive hi-fi system includes a Bluetooth speaker within a replica Wind Tunnel Tyre, made by Pirelli for Formula 1 teams to conduct aerodynamic testing.

The wind tunnel is a vital tool for Formula 1 teams to study every aspect of air flow, in their search for optimal performance – where the tyres play a vital role as well.

And from the scale-model F1 Wind Tunnel tyre, Pirelli P Zero sound by Ixoost was born. The acoustic system includes a powerful amplifier with a 100-watt digital signal processor and is equipped with a 100-mm midwoofer as well as a 25-mm silk tweeter. The whole system is made entirely in Italy by Ixoost, featuring hand-crafted touches and attention to detail.

With the most advanced 4.0 Bluetooth APTX technology, Pirelli P Zero sound can connect wirelessly to smartphones and other compatible devices, enhancing the audio signal in wireless mode and ensuring the best possible playback.

Pirelli P Zero Sound is available in nine colours that reflect those used to distinguish the different racing compounds. Thanks to its appealing shape and compact dimensions (330mm diameter and maximum depth of 200mm), this design piece is said to fit in anywhere in the house.

The new speaker was previewed at the Formula 1 Pirelli Grand Prix De France 2018. Pirelli P Zero sound will be seen in the F1 Pirelli Hot Laps garage during other Grand Prixs this year.


Skoda eyes S-E Asia or India in expansion push

                FRANKFURT: Volkswagen AG’s Skoda unit will spearhead a fresh push into some emerging markets where Europe’s largest automaker has so far trailed behind Asian rivals.

VW’s most profitable mass-market brand is freeing up funds for investments in India or Southeast Asia as well as shifting its lineup towards electric cars, chief executive officer Thomas Schaefer said in a phone interview. Skoda has overhauled its Indian operations after calling off cooperation plans with Tata Motors Ltd. and is nearing a decision on building a factory in Southeast Asia.

“We see huge potential to grow in emerging markets,” said Schaefer, who took over as CEO in August. “We’re in very good talks in countries like Vietnam.”

VW has a checkered history trying to crack emerging markets beyond China and Brazil.

Mixed results

Previous projects for making low-budget cars or teaming up with local peers have been bruising experiences.

A collaboration with Jaguar Land Rover owner Tata Motors collapsed in 2017 after failing to achieve planned cost savings.

Success in Southeast Asia, Russia or North Africa could help Skoda reap revenues from combustion-engine technology for longer to help finance the shift towards electric cars in Europe, its main market.

A decision on a factory in Southeast Asia could be made this year after discussions faced delays from travel restrictions triggered by the Covid-19 pandemic. Japanese and South Korean manufacturers dominate in the region.

Skoda’s cars sell for less than VW’s namesake brand and share key technology. While VW’s Audi and Porsche brands compete with the likes of Mercedes-Benz or Tesla Inc., the Czech unit vies for customers with French peers and Hyundai Motor Co.

Skoda has revamped its lineup in India with new sedans and the Kushaq SUV, after selling just over 10,000 cars last year in the market that’s dominated by Maruti Suzuki and Hyundai.

“We now have the right strategy, the right team and the right products in place to grow in India,” Schaefer said. Its Pune factory has the potential to reach production capacity of 250,000 cars, he said. The Pune site also makes VW-branded cars.

First E-SUV

In its main sales region Europe, Skoda is rolling out the Enyaq IV this year, the brand’s first fully-electric vehicle based on VW’s mass-market platform for battery-powered cars.

It will soon add a coupe version and has plans for a smaller EV by 2025. The second part of the decade should see a mid-sized EV about the size of its Octavia model.

“There’s more to be done to improve cost efficiency,” Schaefer said. Skoda expects to nearly double profitability to pre-pandemic levels of about 8% return on sales “in the mid-term.”


Tesla tests Luminar sensor Musk scorned as ‘fool’s errand’

                SAN FRANCISCO: Tesla Inc, whose boss Elon Musk says he can develop a fully self-driving car without using laser-sensor technology, has a contract to use such sensors from Luminar Technologies Inc for testing and development, according to people familiar with the matter.

A photo of a Tesla Model Y with a roof rack of lidar sensors posted to Twitter on Thursday stoked speculation that the companies were working together, sending Orlando, Florida-based Luminar’s shares up more than 10% that day. While similar images of Teslas with lidar sensors have popped up before on social media, it was unclear until now what the relationship is between Tesla and Luminar.

Luminar sold Tesla the sensors on that Model Y as part of an agreement between the companies, some of the people said, requesting anonymity because the information is private.

In addition, Bloomberg News confirmed with the California Department of Motor Vehicles that the manufacturer’s licence plate on the photographed vehicle belongs to Tesla. The same manufacturer’s plate has been spotted on other Tesla vehicles, including a prototype of the forthcoming Cybertruck.

Luminar shares surged in early trading Monday. A Luminar representative declined to comment. Multiple Tesla executives contacted by Bloomberg didn’t respond to a request for comment. Tesla has disbanded its media relations department.

The Model Y with the sensors was spotted in Palm Beach, Florida, around 8 a.m. Thursday by Grayson Brulte, a consultant to the autonomous-vehicle industry who lives in the area. The photos he posted to Twitter fanned market speculation that Chief Executive Officer Musk might be hedging his claim that he can develop a camera-only self-driving system, without the radar and laser sensors embraced by competitors.

It’s not clear what Tesla’s intentions are with Luminar’s lidar, the people familiar with the matter told Bloomberg. Tesla engineers could be benchmarking their camera-centric self-driving system against lidar; they also could be testing lidar for future use.

Any suggestion that Musk would change course to adopt lidar is unrealistic, said Sam Abuelsamid, an analyst with Guidehouse Insights.

“The more likely scenario is they are using the Luminar lidars to validate their camera-based FSD system,” Abuelsamid said in an interview, using an acronym for full self-driving. “If they made that change, it would effectively depreciate their entire fleet of vehicles. They are not going to retrofit one million vehicles.”

Key technology

Lidar, which stands for light detection and ranging, is a key technology for the world’s leading automakers, tech companies and startups as they race to make fully autonomous cars a reality. Lidar uses lasers to build a three-dimensional image of the surrounding landscape, which is critical to how the vehicle perceives the environment, predicts the behavior of pedestrians and other vehicles, and plans how to safely navigate roads.

Musk has been a lone, and loud, voice saying that lidar isn’t necessary.

“Lidar is a fool’s errand,” he said during Tesla’s “Autonomy Day” for investors in April 2019. “Anyone relying on lidar is doomed.”

Luminar, which went public in a US$3.4bil (RM14.09bil) reverse merger last year, has production agreements to supply lidar sensors to Volvo Car AB and the flagship R brand of SAIC Motor Corp, China’s biggest automaker.

More recently, Musk has softened some of his public comments on lidar technology. In an appearance on the audio chatroom Clubhouse earlier this year, he admitted to “talking smack” about lidar and said that SpaceX – the rocket company Musk also leads – developed its own internal lidar to aid the SpaceX Dragon capsule. “Obviously if I hated lidar I wouldn’t have done that,” Musk said. “However, for driving on real world roads you have to solve vision, understanding objects.”

On an earnings call last month, Musk suggested Tesla is also moving away from radar, which, along with lidar and cameras, is one of the three technologies the industry has viewed as critical sensor hardware needed to reach a future of self-driving vehicles.

Analyst Adam Jonas of Morgan Stanley called that a bold and risky move. Jeff Osborne of Cowen & Co went a bit further: “We continue to question Tesla’s approach to vehicle automation,” he wrote in a note to clients. “In our view this is unlikely to succeed.”


Power grids worldwide not yet ready for 'flying cars', says Brazil's Eve

                SAO PAULO: Power grids around the world are not yet ready for the so-called flying car, an executive with Brazilian start-up Eve Air Mobility told Reuters, adding that the electric aircraft maker is in talks with power providers to bridge the gap.

Eve's Services & Operations Solutions Vice President, Luiz Mauad, said the nascent industry does face challenges when it comes to the power supply the electric aircraft needs to recharge. But he expressed optimism they would be overcome in time for Eve to meet its target of starting commercial operations in 2026.

Eve is one of a bevy of startups worldwide developing battery-powered aircraft that can take off and land vertically to ferry travelers to airports or for short city trips, allowing them to beat traffic.

Mauad said Eve has been talking to global power generators and distributors about making infrastructure adequate for the electric vertical take-off and landing aircraft (eVTOLs), including the so-called vertiports they would take off from.

Controlled by planemaker Embraer, Eve has an order backlog of up to 2,850 aircraft, with clients in countries including Brazil, the United States, India and France.

"We see that major cities are more prepared and companies say they have grid studies for those cities, where demand is greater," Mauad said. "But there is still the 'final mile' challenge so that power can get to the vertiports."

He added Eve was keen to partner with power firms to develop the necessary infrastructure, and said in Brazil the company has been discussing projects with EDP.

"Once our clients decide on their specific routes, the power firms will be able to establish if a given place is OK or if it will require more time," Mauad said.

Eve's eVTOL is being developed to have a range of 100km. The average travelled distance is likely to be around 30km, the company estimates.

Discussions are also advancing on establishing vertiports, Mauad said, noting that studies show they can be as small as a helipad or as large as a hub, with several stands and passenger terminals, depending on demand and available area.

"It is a sector in which we learn as we go."


UMW Toyota opens flagship stores on Lazada and Shopee

                SHAH ALAM: UMW Toyota Motor has opened an online store at two of Malaysia’s popular e-commerce platforms - Lazada and Shopee, where car buyers can find special deals on selected models.

“As online shopping is now part of daily life, UMW Toyota Motor is also establishing a presence on the popular e-commerce platforms of Lazada Malaysia and Shopee with the Toyota Flagship Stores," said UMW Toyota Motor president Ravindran K.

Ravindran added that the company wants to make it easier for customers to buy a Toyota vehicle with great money-saving deals.

The introduction of the online stores on Lazada and Shoppee follows the earlier introduction of the company's Online Showroom.

Booking fees at the online stores can be as low as RM250 and payment can be made via credit card or electronic bank fund transfers.

The booking fee starts the purchase process which will be followed up by personal attention from a Sales Advisor at the nearest authorized Toyota dealership to the customer.

Chat support is also available at the online stores (Monday – Friday, 9:30am – 5:30pm) for customers who may have queries.

There will be promotions (*for selected 2019 stocks only) at the online stores from time to time with exclusive money-saving offers.

At current, there is a special promotion available for the Fortuner SUV (limited stocks) worth RM22,760 and comes with a five-year free scheduled maintenance (terms and conditions apply).

There are also other exclusive deals for the Toyota Innova, Toyota Harrier and Toyota Hilux (limited stocks) as well.

The deals are available only for online bookings at the Toyota Flagship Stores on both Lazmall and Shopee Mall.

“Online sales of new cars have been gaining popularity in other countries and has become more appreciated with the current situation whereby consumers may be reluctant to go to showrooms due to health concerns. We, therefore, offer online channels through the popular e-commerce platforms as well as our own Toyota Online Showroom so they can be fully informed and then make the purchase conveniently,” said UMW Toyota Motor deputy chairman Akio Takeyama.


China's Evergrande delivers first electric vehicles

                BEIJING: China Evergrande New Energy Vehicle Group Ltd has started deliveries of its Hengchi 5 electric vehicle, with the first 100 customers getting their cars on Saturday, it said on its official Wechat account.

The company, a unit of heavily indebted property developer China Evergrande Group, launched production of the vehicle at a plant in the northern city of Tianjin last month.

Evergrande is aiming to shift the group's primary business from real estate to the automobile venture over the next decade, with plans to make 1 million vehicles by 2025.

It has said it would start mass production of its second EV model in the first half of 2023 and a third in the latter half of next year.

The Hengchi 5 sport-utility vehicle sells for 179,000 yuan (RM117,000).


BMW i charging facilities available in Northern region

                CYBERJAYA: BMW Group Malaysia and Tian Siang Premium Auto have installed two new BMW i Charging Facilities each at The Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat in Ipoh and the Iconic Hotel in Penang to form part of BMW Group Malaysia’s ongoing efforts to drive e-mobility forward.

The new charging facilities arrive following the introduction of the first BMW i Charging Facilities in Perak earlier this year by Tian Siang Premium Auto at WEIL Hotel, Ipoh.

This was followed by another installation at the Holiday Inn Melaka and The Equatorial Melaka by Seong Hoe Premium Motors as well as at CityONE Megamall Kuching by Regas Premium Auto Sarawak.

BMW Group Malaysia’s portfolio of Visionary Mobility with the BMW iPerformance vehicles are also supported by the ChargEV platform through its partnership with the Malaysian Green Technology Corporation.

The BMW ChargeNow service, which is offered as part of the BMW 360-degree ELECTRIC programme, also grants direct access to partner charging facilities like ChargEV.

Here, customers can enjoy 24/7 support and access to all charging locations in ChargEV’s growing network, which now offers more than 270 charging facilities nationwide.

“The New BMW i Charging Facilities are another step forward for us. BMW Group Malaysia has delivered close to 10,000 vehicles year-to-date and with BMW iPerformance vehicles accounting for 56% of total deliveries, it makes Malaysia among the top three markets for BMW plug-in hybrid vehicles deliveries," said BMW Group Malaysia head of sales Raymond Tan.


Toyota to invest US$600m in China's Didi, new JV

Didi Chuxing senior vice president Stephen Zhu (left) closing the deal with Toyota Motor Corporation executive vice president Shigeki Tomoyama following the investment deal.

BEIJING: Toyota Motor Corp said today it will invest US$600 million in Chinese ride-hailing giant Didi Chuxing and a new joint venture to expand collaboration with the firm in China.

The move accelerates a trend in China which has seen automakers launch their own ride-hailing services, and ride-hailing firms such as Didi team with automakers to develop purpose-built cars for their services.

The Japanese carmaker said the new joint venture would include Toyota’s Chinese partnership with Guangzhou Automobile Group Co Ltd (GAC), and would see the companies combining services and technologies.

The collaboration utilized Toyota’s connected technologies and next-generation battery electric vehicles, Toyota Executive Vice President Shigeki Tomoyama said.

Toyota, which has said it aims to get half of its global sales from electrified vehicles by 2025, has tapped Chinese battery makers including Contemporary Amperex Technology Co Ltd (CATL) and BYD Co Ltd to aid it in the shift to electricity-powered cars.

Didi has also set up ventures with Volkswagen and BAIC’s new-energy vehicle unit.

Sources said in June that Didi was in talks with Nissan Motor Co and its China partner, Dongfeng Group, to form another fleet-management venture.

Toyota and Didi have previously collaborated on other vehicle projects and services for Didi drivers.


New BMW X3 undergoes winter testing in Sweden

                MUNICH: BMW has released a video showing the upcoming X3 undergoing winter testing in Sweden.

As is typical of upcoming car launches, they have tp be subjected to numerous tests before they are certified fit for production and sale.

Such tests includes, for example, testing under extreme climatic conditions such as those prevailing in scorching hot deserts or freezing cold winter landscapes.

A team of BMW engineers recently completed an X3 testing programme in the small Swedish town of Arjeplog. Pre-series models of the new X3 had to prove that they were also able to withstand cold, ice and snow.

Located in the historic province of Lapland barely 56km south of the polar circle, Arjeplog offers the ideal conditions for this. An abundant amount of snow and temperatures of minus 20 degrees and below cause the many lakes in the surrounding area to freeze over.

The resulting vast, even surfaces serve as proving grounds on which steering, suspension and drive characteristics can be tested and various different technical solutions compared against one another.

In the process, engineers tweaked the intelligent four-wheel technology xDrive to ensure the best possible traction on icy surfaces. Other factors they considered were optimising handling agility via the fully variable torque distribution to ensure improved driving dynamics and active driving safety.


New Renault Megane R.S. previewed, prices start from RM280K

The Megane R.S. being previewed today. Next to the Renault are (from left) Tan, Laplanche and Govin.
PETALING JAYA: A preview of the all-new Renault Megane R.S. hot hatch, the iconic performance car from the French marque, was held for members of the media and now comes with five doors and in two variants.

The variant with manual transmission is priced at RM279,888 (on-the-road without insurance); the other with efficient dual clutch (EDC) auto transmission goes for RM299,888.

The new Megane R.S. is slated to be launched later this year.

The fourth-generation Megane R.S. now features a new 1.8L direct injection, twin scroll turbocharged engine mated to either a manual six-speed transmission or six-speed EDC auto transmission. Both variants have the same output and torque at 280PS at 6,000rpm and 390Nm of torque from 2,400rpm to 4,500rpm.

It is also equipped with Renault's 4Control four-wheel steering system, a global first for the C-segment hot hatch and promises outstanding agility through turns and impressive cornering stability at high speeds.

The new Megane R.S. also looks the business with its design cues taken from the world of motorsports. As such, the body is wider at the front by 60mm, 45mm at the rear and the ride height is lowered by 5mm compared to the Megane GT.

It also features a wider air-intake at the front bumper, a 3D honeycomb pattern grille mesh, sculpted body sides, a redesigned narrower rear spoiler and rear bumper with built-in diffuser as well as 19-inch wheels for a more aggressive look.

What is interesting about the new Megane R.S. is that it now comes with five-doors instead of three in its previous iteration and an auto transmission option.

"The Megane R.S. has always been pretty much close to hardcore," Renault Asia Pacific importer operations head Quincy Govin said in an interview.

"We are not the normal, run-of-the-mill sports hatchback. The Megane R.S. has always been this edgy, hardcore sort of thing and Renault has built this up but what we realised is that we've missed out on a very large chunk of the market that wants something quick, fast and practical.

"So, as a result, we see today, the iteration of the new Megane R.S. being only five doors with an option of an automatic gearbox. This will broaden the appeal to a lot more customers who would have otherwise been put-off by only having three-doors and only having a manual transmission," he said.

"We don't want to alienate the customers who are already fans of the manual transmission, so today we previewed the manual transmission variant first to solidify this message to say 'No, we haven't left you out. We're still that hardcore, bad-boy.' But we have a mission to expand this to customers who would otherwise not consider us."

Also present at the event was French ambassador to Malaysia, Frédéric Laplanche, and TC Euro Cars chairman Nicholas Tan.

The new Megane R.S. is available for booking. Test-drives, however, will only be available at Renault's Petaling Jaya showroom from August onwards.

The first 10 customers to book the new Megane R.S. before May 31 will enjoy an all-expense paid trip to France including a unique experience to the Renault Sport facility in Dieppe.

The Megane R.S. comes with a three year or 100,000km warranty (whichever comes first).

First deliveries of the fully imported model are expected in September this year.

2018 - New Renault MEGANE R.S. Sport chassis tests drive in Spain