Classic cars damage environment less than modern motors, study shows

                LONDON: Classic cars are much less damaging to the environment when compared to modern vehicles, research from a specialist cherished vehicle industry report in the UK says.

The average classic emits 563kg of CO2 per year, yet an average passenger car such as modern Volkswagen Golf has a 6.8-tonne carbon footprint when taking its production process into account, said the survey conducted by specialist insurance provider Footman James.

The findings will gladden the hearts of many classic car enthusiasts who say older cars are more sustainable since they have outlived many equivalent models.

In doing so they have avoided the wasteful use of energy to make new cars. Classics are also generally used less than modern vehicles.

The report said battery-electric vehicles have even more of an impact in terms of average carbon emissions footprint than a classic or modern internal combustion engine car.

The fully electric Polestar 2, for example, is said to create 26 tonnes of CO2 during its production process alone - an emissions figure that would take a typical classic car 46 years to match.

"This shows that despite the enticing prospect of zero-tailpipe emissions from an electric vehicle, classic cars are far less impactful on the environment long-term due to their infrequent use," said the authors of the Indicator Report.

"It's easy for one to assume that classic cars are more damaging simply because of their older and less efficient engines, however, the data in this report disproves that theory," said managing director of Footman James, David Bond.

"It's really about how these vehicles are maintained and used," he added. "It is clear that while new modern and electric cars might seem better for the planet day-to-day, the problem is how much of an impact their production causes."


Car-ramming trailer identified

                MALACCA: A car-ramming incident took place here in what could be another road rage case following one in Penang last month where a lorry driver smashed through 18 cars that were blocking his way.

Malacca police chief Deputy Comm Datuk Ramli Din said the registration number of the trailer that committed the offence near the Hang Jebat stadium has been identified.

He said the heavy vehicle was from out of town.

“It is just a matter of time; the driver will be apprehended to help in investigation for reckless driving,” he said.

DCP Ramli said the police had so far received 18 reports from the affected car owners.

The trailer, he said, was believed to have been travelling without consignment when the incident occurred on Sunday.

DCP Ramli said the stadium had about 30,000 spectators that night, forcing some to park a distance away from the stadium.

Some 20 cars were badly damaged when the trailer smashed into the parked vehicles during the game.

The incident is believed to have occurred at about 10.15pm while the game between Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT) and the Police was ongoing.

The cars were parked along the shoulder of Sungai Udang-Paya Rumput-Ayer Keroh (SPA) Highway.

Fans only discovered that the cars were damaged after one motorist informed them at the end of the Super League tournament.

Meanwhile, Chief Minister Datuk Seri Idris Haron said he sympathised with the losses incurred by the fans.

However, he said, they should not have parked their vehicles hazardously along a busy stretch.


BMW Connected app lets new 5 Series owner remotely check surroundings of car

                MUNICH: BMW has dropped some hints on the next BMW 5 Series. In the latest video released, it shows how advanced technology is helping the new 5 Series owner keep an eye on his car even if he’s miles away.

Part of the BMW Connected ensemble, the “Remote View 3D” feature will let the owner view the car’s surroundings from a smartphone app

In the short clip, a presenter explains what the Remote View 3D app does on the G30 5 Series, which will be the first model to get this feature. He holds up an iPhone showing a bird’s eye view of the 5 Series and the top left corner of the screen suggests the car is a 540i, the successor to the 535i.

BMW isn’t telling yet when the new 5 Series is coming but it could make its world premiere at the upcoming Paris Motor Show in October or the 2017 Detroit auto show in January.

The G30 addresses a key point that the current F10 5 Series is one of the heaviest in its segment. The G10 will be better, being lightened for better ride and performance. An obvious way to shed meaningful weight in the car is to use carbon fibre parts as in the 7 Series.

At the same time, BMW is testing out the G30-based M5, which is expected to roll out by early 2018, round about the same time the Z5 roadster will be introduced.


Renault plans engine software patch to cut diesel emissions

                PARIS: French carmaker Renault will announce measures in March to reduce real-world emissions of nitrogen oxide (NOx) pollutants from its latest diesel vehicles, chief competitive officer Thierry Bollore said today.

The engine adjustments, to be delivered in the form of a software upgrade, will be available for vehicles with the latest Euro 6 generation of diesel engines, Bollore told reporters in a briefing at Renault headquarters west of Paris.

Starting in July, voluntary engine checks will be offered to owners of about 700,000 vehicles that may be eligible for the upgrade, the company said.

AFP reported today that Renault is recalling 15,000 vehicles before they go on sale to check their engines.

French transport minister Segolene Royal said today that Renault "has committed to recalling a certain number of vehicles, 15,000 vehicles, to check them and adjust them correctly so that the filtration system works" in all temperatures.

"New cars must meet the norms," she said, adding that the adjustment could be quickly done. "To correctly adjust an engine takes half a day," she added.


Europe must expand chargers to catch up with electric car sales, says industry

                BRUSSELS : Europe’s rollout of vehicle charging points is not keeping up with the strong growth in electric car sales, an industry group said on Wednesday, warning that a lack of infrastructure could hamper future sales of low-emission vehicles.

Sales of battery and plug-in hybrid cars in the European Union and Britain reached 458,915 vehicles last year, 110% more than in 2017, the European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association (ACEA) said.

The number of charging points grew by 58% over the same period, however, to just shy of 200,000.

“This is potentially very dangerous, as we could soon reach a point where growth of electric vehicle uptake stalls if consumers conclude there are simply not enough charging points where they need to travel, or that they have to queue too long for a fast charger,” ACEA director-general Eric-Mark Huitema said in a statement.

While the coronavirus pandemic has sent overall car sales tumbling this year, combined sales of battery and plug-in hybrid models have increased - helped by tougher EU car emissions standards, and national support schemes to boost post-pandemic recovery.

ACEA urged the European Commission to speed up a planned review of EU rules on charging infrastructure, and set binding targets for countries to deploy more chargers.

An EU clean transport strategy, expected later this year, will “aim to boost the deployment of EU-wide charging infrastructure and increase the number of charging stations,” a Commission spokesman said.

The executive plans to use EU funds to help install the one million public recharging and refuelling stations it says will be needed for the 13 million low-emissions vehicles expected on Europe’s roads by 2025.

NGOs said such efforts should target priority areas.

“This means first and foremost private charging in buildings and business premises where cars are parked,” said Julia Poliscanova, clean vehicles director at Transport & Environment.


Ford trots out new Kuga with three hybrid options and more room

                DETROIT: US carmaker Ford is planning a generation change with its compact SUV Kuga, with the new platform set to hit dealerships in early 2020. It will be the brand's first model with three different hybrid options, Ford says while unveiling the popular car model.

The vehicle is becoming noticeably bigger in its newest iteration, with the wheelbase growing by 2 centimetres, the length by 9 cm and the width by 4 cm. With this bulking up, the carmaker promises more space for passengers and luggage. In addition, the new Kuga will be up to 90 kilograms lighter and therefore more economical, Ford says.

For more CO2 savings, there's a completely new driving range with three different hybrid systems: Alongside the conventional petrol models, there are also mild, full and plug-in hybrids available.

In additional to the wide selection of alternative drivetrains, the Kuga will also strive to score highly with its assistance systems and infotainment, according to Ford.

Promised features include online navigation, a wi-fi hotspot and an app with which one can remotely access the onboard computer as well as certain vehicle functions.


Rolls-Royce turns on the bespoke charm with Private Office Dubai

                DUBAI: Rolls-Royce has opened its first so-called "Private Office" here, offering exclusive product previews and detailed commission consultations.

Private Office Dubai is the first among similar facilities planned for luxury hot spots around the world.

It serves as an extension of the Rolls-Royce base at Goodwood, UK.

The Dubai setup comes with a bespoke designer and a bespoke client experience manager who are tasked with building closer contact and relationships with its wealthy clientele.

For the Dubai outpost, Rolls-Royce has named Michelle Lusby as the designer while Chris Hardy is the client experience manager.

"For many years, we have been inviting our VIP clients to the Home of Rolls-Royce in Goodwood – and
now, following significant demand, we are bringing Goodwood to the world," said Rolls-Royce Motor Cars CEO Torsten Müller-Ötvös.

Private sessions can be booked via the local dealer. Private Office Dubai is located at The Offices 4, One Central.


Jeweller David Yurman selling US$48,000 handmade motorcycle

                NEW YORK: A massive, high-speed motorcycle isn’t exactly the first thing you think of when you think of David Yurman, the high-end jeweller known for his twisted-cable bracelets and dark pearl earrings.

But when you think of Evan Yurman-David's son and the head of their brand's men's line-it should be. He just commissioned a bike called the David Yurman Forged Carbon Motorcycle by MV Agusta and is releasing it for sale concurrent with his new men's jewelry collection. You can buy the bike for US$48,000.

Evan is a longtime motorcycle obsessive who has been collecting dirt bikes, vintage BMWs, and old Harley-Davidsons for decades. (Catch up with him in the Hamptons or at his place in Upstate New York, and you’re as likely to find him on a motorbike as in a car).

He knew exactly whom he wanted to go to for a one-of-a-kind statement bike that would inspire while demonstrating the unique material properties of a small capsule collection of rings, keychains, and cufflinks: iconic builder Walt Siegl. Siegl is the Austrian-born craftsman and pro racer famous for hand-making custom motorbikes at his remote shop in New Hampshire.

Walt produced a thing of beauty: a three-cylinder, 800cc, four-stroke, 12-valve, and liquid-cooled engine that gets 160hp, an immense amount of power for a machine that weighs just 138kg. It can hit more than 290kph.

The guy I spoke with who had ridden it said that pushing up the highway was a life-changing experience. Siegl made the bike in custom Kevlar, with a forged carbon triple tree (the apparatus at front) and rear and front fender, plus high-end Brembo radial disc brakes. Everything about it is custom-made; the unique molds alone cost US$15,000 to make.

In fact, Yurman said, if the bike were priced appropriately, it would cost closer to US$250,000. “There's no profit involved in this at all, whatsoever,” he said. “Walt is a great bike modifier and sculptor, and I was inspired to call him up and collaborate.”

Until it's sold, Yurman keeps it at his private design studio. “I just wanted to own it, that's all,” Yurman said the other day, laughing. Actually, he explained, it worked perfectly as a practical application of his latest obsession: forged carbon.

“If you just take forged carbon and put it in jewelry, that is only a one-way conversation. But if you put it in the form of a motorcycle, something you can use, it becomes a dialogue. So we got to utilise it in a different way that may be considered esoteric to some, but for the people who utilise it as a means to their industry, like Walt, we give them the opportunity to think way outside the box.”

If you can’t be the one to get your hands on the bike, you can always buy one of the new rings. They’re made with forged carbon, too. (US$350-US$840 at David Yurman retailers worldwide.) — HANNAH ELLIOTT


100-day countdown to launch of cleanest-ever Euro-6 vehicles

                LONDON: This weekend begins the 100-day countdown to the official launch of the strictest-ever European vehicle emissions regulation, Euro-6.

From Sept 1, all new car models sold in the EU must meet this low emissions standard, making them the cleanest vehicles in history.

With three months still to go before the new standard becomes mandatory, the latest figures from Britain's Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders show that British car makers are ahead of the game, with around half of new car buyers opting for a Euro-6 car last month.

Consumers are doing their bit for air quality, too, by opting to buy these low emission vehicles in increasing numbers. In April, almost one out of every two new cars registered (45.9%) boasted next-generation Euro-6 technology, compared with fewer than one in five (18.7%) in September 2014. Meanwhile, a staggering 70.4% of Britain’s top 10 best-sellers registered last month met the standard.

Next-generation Euro-6 technology vehicles not only boast the lowest CO2 emissions on record, but they emit virtually zero particulate matter, while nitrogen oxides emissions are more than half those of previous generation motors built in the past five years.

Euro standards refer to the European legislation for vehicle emissions, which has been in place – and constantly tightening – since 1992.


Hyundai offers first look at fuel cell truck

                SEOUL: Hyundai Motor on Monday presented a first look at a render image of a new truck with fuel cell powertrain which is set to be launched in 2019.

This follows on from the rollout of the ix35 Fuel Cell and the NEXO.

The fuel cell electric truck boasts distinctive design which sets it apart from other Hyundai commercial vehicle line-up.

The truck aims at simple and clean design which is also aerodynamically efficient with a spoiler and side protector.

The front grille symbolises hydrogen through geometric shapes, giving the vehicle a unique look.

The vehicle presents an eco-friendly look with an iconic blue colour application and a bold side body graphic on the container.

During the Sept 20-27 IAA Commercial Vehicles 2018 taking place in Hanover, Germany, Hyundai will announce the future plans for introducing the fuel cell electric truck in the European eco-friendly commercial vehicle market next year as well revealing vehicle specification.

Hyundai Motor also recently completed South Korea’s first domestic highway journey with an autonomously navigated semi-trailer truck.

Its Xcient truck drove 40km on the highway between Uiwang and Incheon, carrying large semi-trailer simulating cargo transportation, showcasing Hyundai’s advances in future mobility.


Car-free living takes off in car-centric cities across US

A rendering of The Plant, a converted industrial space envisioned as the anchor for a car-free development in Houston.
LOS ANGELES: A car-free development that’s long been hailed as potentially transformative is starting to come to life in Tempe, Arizona.

At Culdesac, a collection of mid-sized apartments and retail spaces with no residential parking, exterior walls have risen.

Pavers, murals and desert cactus accent walkways and public spaces, and on-site restaurants and a farmer’s market recently opened.

The first group of residents is set to move into a 16-unit building this May.

“The majority of Americans want to live in car-free neighbourhoods,” said Ryan Johnson, co-founder and chief executive officer of Culdesac.

“We just haven’t been building them since the advent of the car. The areas that are walkable have just gotten more expensive, which has made the demand higher.”

A 17-acre, US$170 million project that’s been an urbanist obsession since it was announced in late 2019, Culdesac is being watched closely as a test case for a new kind of car-free development.

 The car-free development Culdesac is now under construction in Tempe,

A confluence of trends has made such projects both more financially viable and marketable — especially in the South and Sun Belt, where zoning rules are often more permissive but car dependency and the urge to sprawl can be just as powerful.

New transportation options like ride-hailing services and increasingly popular electric bikes and e-scooters have been accompanied by zoning changes that eliminate parking mandates and prioritise paths and bike lanes, opening up real estate for infill development.

Combine that with the rapidly rising cost of owning a vehicle, and giving up the car keys might not seem like such a big sacrifice — even in cities built around automobile use.

Such projects can be more affordable to build, and cheaper to rent: The median cost to build a parking structure in the US was US$25,700 per space in 2021, according to builder WGI.

The Terner Center for Housing Innovation at the University of California at Berkeley estimated that parking adds up to US$36,000 per unit of new housing built in the state.

Accordingly, new developments that radically de-emphasise the private automobile are proliferating.

In Charlotte, North Carolina, a firm called Space Craft recently opened The Joinery, a 83-unit parking-free residential building that quickly fully leased.

Space Craft’s CEO, Harrison Tucker, said the expanding metro — a growth-focused market with less regulation than other big US cities — was the perfect place for such a project.

In recent years, Charlotte has been promoting transit-oriented development and expanding its Lynx light rail line: The Joinery is a short walk from the Parkwood Station.

While Charlotte has one of the highest rates of car ownership in the US, there’s a strong consumer desire for car-free living, and the proliferation of new mobility options provided key arguments for securing financing.

“Our product offered lower rents to residents, US$100 to US$200 below our competitors, and was the best product in the market because we were able to reinvest some of the savings from parking,” said Tucker, who sees walkable urban neighbourhoods becoming their own real estate investment class.

“The economic case was just very strong.”

The pivot away from parking also had some less quantifiable advantages.

Instead of entering via the parking deck — a common layout for apartment complexes built (sometimes literally) around garages — the development has a big public entryway at ground level that’s designed to build community, Tucker says.

 A rendering of CYKEL, a new car-free apartment complex that prioritises bicycle facilities.

Two of the development’s retail tenants, a coffee shop called Night Swim and brewery Protagonist, offer “third places” (a location other than work or home) for tenants to socialise.

Of course, there’s nothing radical about this style of walkable urbanism — it’s the template for cities since they first appeared.

Decades ago, developers who embraced the principles of the New Urbanist movement built several similarly configured planned communities that prioritised pedestrian access and mixed uses, most famously the town of Celebration in Orlando, Florida.

But in car-centric, suburbanised modern America, such spaces remain strikingly scarce.

In a recent report from Smart Growth America, the authors found that walkable urbanism in the largest 35 metros accounted for 19.1% of real US GDP while representing only 1.2% of land and housing 6.8% of the population.

Accordingly, those who want to live in a walkable community can expect to pay a premium — 34% more per square foot for homebuyers and 41% more in rent for multifamily rental apartments.

The current wave of interest in building walkable developments got its start in the market reset after the 2008 recession, according to Michael Rodriguez, director of research for Smart Growth America, as developers saw that these projects could be more economically durable.

“Walkable urbanism is making economic sense for communities throughout the country, and it’s just a choice whether you want to have it or not,” said Rodriguez, one of the report’s co-authors.

“A lot of cities make it far too difficult to develop, and that just exacerbates the problem of price pressure.”

 A rendering of a proposed mixed-use project in Houston’s Second Ward that’s built around former industrial space.Building a walkable archipelago

Another project under construction in Charlotte, CYKEL, also takes advantage of the city’s transit investment and development regulations.

The 104-unit residential tower in the Seversville neighbourhood prioritises facilities for two-wheelers, not cars: Its ground-floor cycle centre has an on-site bike repair station and space for e-scooters, cargo bikes, and other micromobility modes.

It’s also close to a bus stop and greenway, and will feature pick-up and drop-off spots for Uber and Lyft. Only a handful of parking spaces serve the entire building.

Radically reducing the amount of parking means passing along those savings to tenants, said Brian Bradley, senior associate at Grubb Properties.

The building will meet affordability standards for residents earning below 80% of area median income, an effort made possible without subsidies in part due to ditching parking (being located in an Opportunity Zone also helped shave costs).

Since the building won’t be leasing until the spring of 2024 at the earliest, Bradley couldn’t cite specific rents or cost savings.

Grubb, which has US$1.9 billion in assets under management, has tracked a marked decline in car usage among their renters.

In its Link buildings, a sub-brand of multifamily projects launched in 2013, the number of car spots used per bedroom has dropped from 1.4 to 0.7 over the last decade.

While walkable new neighbourhoods can be found in just about any major city, deliberately designing projects that omit parking or can offer significant transit options has long been challenging due to zoning rules.

Houston, with its notoriously lax zoning regulations, might seem like a natural test bed for such a development.

But The Plant, a proposed 17-acre project just east of downtown in the city’s Second Ward, only became feasible when the city recently relaxed parking requirements for parts of the city, said Jeff Kaplan, a social entrepreneur and principal at Concept Neighborhood.

These rules mandated off-street parking spaces for new housing, office and retail developments — a policy that helped keep Houston one of the most car-intensive cities in the US as it grew.

Kaplan’s firm is leading the long-term transformation of the area’s warehouses and industrial spaces, a project that’s expected to cost at least US$350 million.

Developers have land ownership and are fundraising, using projects like The Plant, a converted industrial space, as proof of concept.

The project will include about 1,000 residential units, with a handful of parking spots at commercial sites and a deal with an electric carshare firm.

A focus on walkability, and smaller retail spaces with walk-up windows, can help incubate independent and minority-owned businesses, Kaplan said.

 Phase 2 of The Joinery.

One of the appeals of the project, and a reason similar ones are taking shape across the Sun Belt, is demographics.

Metros like Denver, Dallas and North Carolina’s Research Triangle are emergent “superstar regions,” according to Scott Rechler, CEO of New York-based developer RXR.

The company recently announced the US$91 million acquisition of a 1,000-acre mixed-use development site in Apex, North Carolina, where it plans a US$3 billion project.

Many of these regions, which have growing innovation and biotech sectors, are more affordable than coastal superstar cities, and new arrivals are looking for developments that offer walkability and cultural amenities.

The Houston metro is also seeing significant population growth, but it’s lacked this kind of connected urbanism, Kaplan says.

The planned neighbourhood would be near bike paths, transit lines and the Buffalo Bayou park and trail.

“We’re one of the most culturally diverse cities, and what we’re lacking are publicly driven neighbourhoods that really celebrate that,” he said.

In Charlotte, Space Craft has three more car-light apartment buildings and commercial projects opening in the next few years, and plans to enter another Sun Belt market.

While Culdesac CEO Johnson wouldn’t speak specifically on the company’s next location — past coverage has mentioned cities like Dallas, Atlanta and Raleigh, North Carolina — he confirmed there are more in the works.

In time, Space Craft’s Tucker sees the expansion of these projects creating a kind of walkable archipelago across a city.

“As more of our projects get built out, we’ll see that the sections of Charlotte that we were involved in developing will have a street-life quality that other developments can never have,” he said.

“There’s a lot of opportunity to build walkable neighbourhoods around the country.”


Is this the ultimate drop-top Aston Martin?

                LONDON: Unveiled on Friday at the Goodwood Festival of Speed (FoS), the Vantage GT12 Roadster is a bespoke commission and one that took over nine months to deliver. Based on the already hardcore already very limited edition Vantage GT12 coupe, this roadster takes everything up an individual notch.

It keeps the 6-litre V12 that makes the hard top so exhilarating but adds magnesium inlet manifolds, and magnesium torque tube plus a titanium exhaust system for better engine breathing, and therefore performance, but also to cut weight.

Chopping the roof - a critical structural component - off a seriously taut, seriously fast car can have a catastrophic impact on its performance, handling and safety. But Aton's bespoke customisation department, Q by Aston Martin, has reworked the suspension to ensure this car behaves like it looks.

And it looks like no other production Aston Martin Vantage to date thanks to the fact that it is literally festooned in unique carbon fiber body panels that up the aerodynamics and the visual drama, from the engine bulge in the hood, along the vehicle's sides via re-imagined door skirts and through to a more prominent rear bumper/diffuser.

What's more, it will always look like no other Vantage convertible. The owner, reportedly one of Aston Martin's best clients, has paid a further premium to make certain that Q can never recreate this car for anyone else.

Aston Martin president and CEO Dr Andy Palmer said: "The Vantage GT12 Roadster is a hugely exciting project. Not just because it's sensational to look at, but because it vividly demonstrates the expanded capabilities of Q by Aston Martin."

Like a number of premium automotive marques, Aston Martin is investing more and more in customisation and bespoke services partly to meet growing client demands and partly to counter the competition from companies like Mansory, by offering similar tuning and bodywork services but in a way that stays true to Aston Martin's original design vision.

In recent years Q by Aston Martin has been responsible for a growing number of limited edition and bespoke cars including the Vulcan, the Aston Martin Lagonda Taraf and of course the limited edition hyper car the One-77.

"In just nine-months we took a customer's dream and realised it, with a fully-formed, exactingly engineered and fully road-legal one-off. That is the essence of the Q by Aston Martin service," said David King, Vice President and Chief Special Operations Officer.


Apple rumoured to be in talks to acquire McLaren

 The McLaren 570GT.
SAN FRANCISCO: Californian technology and design firm Apple is in talks with British supercar manufacturer McLaren, according to a new report.

The iPhone company is understood to be interested in acquiring or becoming a significant stakeholder in McLaren, which not only designs and manufacturers high spec sports cars, but as a conglomerate is involved in solar, wind, and advanced automotive technologies.

The report, originating with the Financial Times details a possible takeover deal at up to US$2bil.


Tesla has been a major trending topic on Weibo this year

                BEIJING: Tesla regularly kindles passionate commentary among web users in China.

In Weibo's ranking of the topics that trended most on the social network, the American company is in fifth place.

While this may be interpreted as good news for the company in terms of visibility, it has not necessarily always been for "good" reasons.

The American company is regularly called out in regards to its braking system, or more generally the safety of its users. In recent months, Tesla has appeared 130 times in the trending topics.

First place on the ranking is occupied by the Covid-19 pandemic, followed by the "gaokao," the entrance exam to higher education, extremely important for the youth of China.

Brake system failure

The failure of a Tesla car's braking system became a hot topic last April. At the 19th Shanghai International Auto Expo, a woman climbed into a Tesla car to protest the company following the crash of her Tesla.

According to her, the company had refused to share the vehicle's data with her or to reimburse her. She wore a T-shirt with the slogan "brake failure" which has become one of the top trending topics during this first half of the year.

Despite this bad buzz, Tesla continues to gain ground in China.

Its sales momentum has grown, with the carmaker's revenue increasing by 102.9% over the year and now accounting for 23.3% of Tesla's total revenue.

The Chinese market now surpasses the European Union in terms of market share. And this doesn't look set to change as the American company has made the Chinese market one of its main priorities.


Nissan hints at return of Xterra

The 2012 Xterra.
NASHVILLE: With crossovers and SUVs dominating the global auto market right now, it makes sense for companies to resurrect discontinued SUVs, and Nissan's Xterra, which ended production in 2015, might just be on its way back.

Nissan North America's vice president of product planning, Michael Bunce, recently told Wards Auto that the company was looking into theoff-road utility market again. The Xterra was, he said, "a great asset in terms of a name and a badge. It's on the shelf right now, but it's something we could utilise in the future."

The Xterra was launched in 1999 and stayed in production in the US until 2015, when it was discontinued due to various reasons: its poor fuel economy, falling sales, and the need for expensive essential upgrades to make it comply with increasingly stringent safety and emissions regulations.

 The 2018 Frontier.

Technically, the Xterra is still in production in China, but the model sold there by Zhengzhou Nissan Automobile is based on the old Xterra platform and is in fact badged as the Nissan Paladin.

It's expected that Nissan will reveal an all-new version of its enduring, but dated, Frontier pickup truck sometime in 2018, and a new Xterra could share the same platform. It appears the Japanese auto giant has been watching Ford's introduction of smaller displacement, more fuel-efficient engines into its own trucks and SUVs, and is looking to go down a similar route.

As far back as six years ago, Bunce's predecessor, Larry Dominique expressed interest in what Ford was doing with V-6s in the F-150. At the time, Dominique told Wards Auto, "Who would have thought three years ago V-6 turbos would be 35% of Ford F-150 (sales)? Having somebody like Ford leading the way…I think is great. It opens up the door to us to look at alternatives, as well."


VW halts sale of some ID.4 EVs over risk doors might fling open in motion

                FRANKFURT: Volkswagen AG has ordered dealers in the US and Canada to stop selling its ID.4 electric SUV because its doors might open while in motion, and the German carmaker doesn’t yet have a fix for the problem.

Nearly 18,000 vehicles built at its Chattanooga, Tennessee, factory may have door handles that are malfunctioning because of water seeping in, according to a stop-sale notice dated April 3.

This can "cause a situation where a vehicle door could open unexpectedly” at low speed, VW said.

First reports of ID.4 driver and passenger doors opening surfaced in January, prompting supplier U-Shin Ltd. to analyse the failed parts, and VW to discuss the issue with the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration the following month.

The carmaker, which has issued a recall, identified a total of 10 ID.4s with the self-opening doors made in Chattanooga.
A repair for the issue isn’t yet available, according to VW’s April 3 notice.

Volkswagen is pushing hard to increase its US market share with a portfolio of SUVs and boosting its production footprint in North America.

The carmaker has plans for more than 25 new electric models in the US by 2030 and a new factory in South Carolina to produce electric trucks and SUVs under the Scout brand.

It’s also set to build its first battery plant outside of Europe in Canada.


Volkswagen develops ground-breaking Car2X safety feature

                WOLFSBURG: Thanks to Volkswagen's (VW) latest technological innovation - Car2X, VW vehicles are now able to wirelessly connect to other vehicles including traffic infrastructure.

In recognition of the German carmaker's efforts, Euro New Car Assessment Programme (NCAP) gave special recognition to the traffic hazard alert function with the Advanced Award for ground-breaking safety features.

The German automotive association ADAC tested the new technology and declared it a “technical milestone”.

At the moment, VW's new Golf (Mk8) is currently the first car on the European market to be equipped with Car2X as standard.

The technology is based on the Wi-Fi p wireless standard that's specifically tailored to local communication between vehicles without the need for a mobile phone network and can provide a blanket coverage within the limits of the system.

Within a radius of up to 800m, connected vehicles can directly exchange positioning data and information with each other and can allow them to warn each other of dangers or make contact with the traffic infrastructure within a matter of milliseconds.

ADAC tested Volkswagen’s Car2X technology by sending the Golf into eight typical hazardous situations in which a driver - without being warned, would not be able to react at all, or would only be able to react much later.

In all eight situations, the vehicle warned the driver reliably and in time, often even 10 or 11 seconds before the impending accident.

Thus, ADAC has declared Volkswagen’s new technology (certified by TÜV) as a “technical milestone” that's comparable to systems such as anti-lock braking system or airbags.

In the initial development stage, which Volkswagen is introducing with the new Golf, Car2X technology is active at speeds over 80kph.

In future, it should also be able to improve safety in city traffic by being able to communicate with nearby traffic lights – thereby improve traffic flow and reduce environmental impact.

Car2X technology utilises swarm intelligence in a local environment and improves as more and more participants connect.

For this reason, Volkswagen is now rolling it out on a broad scale after the Golf with other new models of the brand to feature the technology as standard. Other car manufacturers are also working on their own technology.

The Euro NCAP organisation intends to incorporate Car2X technology into its rating in future.

“Volkswagen is to be congratulated for making the technology standard in vehicles selling in high numbers like the Golf," said Euro NCAP secretary general Michiel van Ratingen.


New Honda plug-in NSX at Pikes Peak

                COLORADO: For the 100th anniversary edition of the Broadmoor Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, Honda is entering a plug-in battery vehicle inspired by the new NSX supercar.

Plug-in electric and hydrogen fuel cell cars might not yet be ready for the motoring mainstream. They come at a huge financial premium yet offer a shorter usable range than any gasoline-powered equivalent without the supporting infrastructure to be able to re-fill or recharge on a typical journey.

However, while they're not ready for a grand tour or a long commute, they are already better than anything with an internal combustion engine when it comes to racing over shorter distances.

To show just how much better, Honda is bringing an electric vehicle concept racer to this year's event in Colorado Springs, Colorado, USA on Sunday, June 26.

This will be the second year in succession that the carmaker has tested an all-electric car at the competition. In 2015, Tetsuya Yamano raced an electric car based on the Honda CR-Z clocking up a class win. For 2016, the event's centenary year, Yamano will drive the NSX-inspired concept looking to repeat the feat.

"We've been tuning the car for several weeks at Pikes and have advanced its performance significantly," said Yamano. "We're honored to be running at Pikes in this historical, anniversary year -- an event respected by racing fans all over the world."

The Pikes Peak hill climb consists of 156 corners over 12.42 miles (19.99km) and an elevation that rises from 9390 to 14115 feet (1440-2862 meters). The elevation is important. As the air thins internal combustion engine performance drops -- by up to 30percent -- and as oxygen becomes a rarer atmospheric commodity, drivers' reaction times increase.

The overall four-wheel course record is held by Sebastian Loeb - the greatest driver of his generation - behind the wheel of his Peugeot World Rally car, but electric cars and bikes are catching on.

Electric cars deliver 100% acceleration and 100% torque 100% of the time. There is no gearing either so drivers only have to think of acceleration, deceleration and braking, giving them greater mental space to contemplate the road ahead and be absolutely ready for the next turn.

Honda has been working on a four-motor set up for the race car so that each wheel is independently powered and capable of finding its own grip. It's a concept that's central to the hybrid NSX supercar. And it's an idea that means each wheel can juggle torque and power independently.


Electric car charging probed as Germans seek to go greener

                BRUSSELS: Germany’s electric car charging stations will be probed by the country’s antitrust watchdog following a flood of complaints about the cost and terms of powering up greener vehicles.

Europe’s largest car market is rolling out a nationwide electric car charging infrastructure by 2030 in an effort to rein in transport emissions. The Federal Cartel Office said its sector inquiry should identify potential problems on price and location.

"The conditions and prices for charging in public spaces are of central importance for the decision of consumers to switch to electric mobility,” Andreas Mundt, the cartel office’s president, said in a statement on Thursday.

"The market is still emerging, of course. But we are already receiving more and more complaints about the prices and conditions on the charging stations.”

Getting electric cars powered up from a still-patchy network of charging stations is a key drag on customers’ decision to ditch older vehicles. The car market is growing with 2.1 million electric vehicles sold worldwide last year. The European Commission is pushing for 1 million public charging points in the region by 2025.

European utilities and energy companies like EDF and Shell are buying up companies active in charging, while Shell is also rolling out chargers at its retail refuelling sites.

German regulators said non-discriminatory access to suitable locations for charging stations and what terms of use for the charging stations "are of crucial importance” to make sure companies are competing fairly.


Ford to use renewable energy sources to make vehicles in Michigan

                DETROIT: Ford Motor Co said today every vehicle it makes in Michigan would be assembled using solar and other renewable energy sources by 2025, as the automaker aims to lower its emissions.

Michigan-based Ford has signed a renewable energy purchase pact with local provider DTE Energy, under which the utility firm will add 650 megawatts of new solar energy in the state for the carmaker.

Ford operates three plants in Michigan at Dearborn, Wayne and Flat Rock that build the F-150, Mustang, Ranger and Bronco models.

Ford is buying carbon-free electricity through DTE’s MIGreenPower program, which is among the largest voluntary renewable energy programs in the country.

To date, the company has more than 600 businesses enrolled in the program along with more than 62,000 residential customers. On an annual basis, MIGreenPower customers have enrolled 2.8 million megawatt hours of clean energy in the program, which has the environmental benefit equivalent to avoiding 2.2 million tons of carbon dioxide emissions.

DTE is Michigan’s largest producer of renewable energy and the company plans to add thousands of megawatts of new clean energy projects to support the program.


Merdeka goodies with Sportage GT and Cerato

                KUALA LUMPUR: Naza KIA Malaysia, the official distributor of KIA vehicles in Malaysia, is offering a special Merdeka Sale throughout the month of August for the Kia Sportage GT and Kia Cerato 1.6 SX models, complete with added privileges, in a patriotic tribute for all Malaysian car owners to enjoy during the nationwide celebration of the 60th Merdeka.

Every purchase of either the Sportage GT or Cerato 1.6 SX during this Merdeka month will come with:

> Three Years Free Maintenance Service – includes parts and labour fees for a hassle-free car maintenance experience.
> Peace of mind with KIA Value 5 Programme – Guaranteed future value after 5 years of ownership and easy upgrade to any new Kia model.
> Access to Sky Lounge – Free exclusive access for owner and a guest to premium facility at Subang Skypark.
> Five Years Warranty – Worry-free ownership experience with unlimited mileage.

The Sportage GT is made for the go-getters in life who lead a confident and active lifestyle, also offers a breathtakingly distinct design, an attractive interior, attractive features, exuding a bold sporty look for the SUV.

The Sportage’s ‘GT Line’ specification adds further visual and dynamic appeal to complement those who desire a more powerful driving experience.

The popular SUV model also added a feather to its hat last year by securing first place in the 2016 J.D. Power Vehicle Dependability Study for its high quality and reliability.

Meanwhile, the sporty sedan Cerato has emits a sophisticated vibe with its attractive styling, fluid appearance and advanced convenience and driver-assistance features.

Apart from just the exterior, the Cerato model received notable interior upgrades from its predecessor and now comes with a motor-driven power steering (MDPS), Bluetooth connectivity, push-start ignition, an 8-inch touchscreen display with rear view camera, 4-way powered memory seat with lumbar support, among many others.

Throughout the month-long Merdeka Sale campaign, the Sportage GT will be offered at an exclusive price of RM126,388 while the Cerato 1.6L SX will be selling at RM88,888.

These Merdeka deals are available for a limited time only and valid at all Naza Kia showrooms nationwide from now until Aug 31, while stocks last.


XE SV Project 8: Jaguar's most powerful vehicle coming

                LONDON: Jaguar Land Rover Special Vehicle Operations (SVO) has announced it will produce the Jaguar brand’s most powerful vehicle ever – the new XE SV Project 8.

A prototype version of the specially tuned Jaguar super sports sedan has now undertaken its debut test at the grueling Nürburgring Nordschleife, adorned with an exclusive camouflage created by SVO Design.

Targeted for on-sale in 2018, the XE SV Project 8 will be the second Collectors’ Edition vehicle from SVO, following the successful launch of F-TYPE Project 7 in 2014.

The heart of the all-wheel drive XE SV Project 8 will be a newly-tuned version of Jaguar Land Rover’s supercharged 5.0-litre V8 engine producing an estimated 600PS to make this new supercar the most powerful production Jaguar ever produced. No more than 300 cars, all hand-assembled at SVO’s Technical Centre in Coventry, will be created for sale worldwide.

John Edwards, managing director of Jaguar Land Rover Special Operations said: “The time is right for SVO to produce the most extreme performance road car in the history of Jaguar ... the new XE SV Project 8 takes aerodynamics and performance engineering to another level – it is conceived for enthusiasts and the most discerning collectors. The price for such an extreme performance sports car available in strictly limited numbers will reflect that.”

Additional details of the XE SV Project 8 will be revealed June 28, ahead of its world debut at Goodwood Festival of Speed on June 30.


The end of stop-and-go? What self-driving cars may mean for traffic

                MUNICH: Feel like reading or watching a movie when you’re stuck in stop-and-go traffic? Thanks to advancing technology that’s now a possibility not only for a car’s passengers but also the driver.

For example, the current S-Class from Mercedes, which reaches Level 3 (or "highly automated") self-driving according to the authoritative classification of the SAE International organisation.

Level 3 means that the driver can hand over the steering wheel and responsibility to an autonomous car, but must be able to take over driving again at short notice if requested to do so by the system.

BMW offers Level 2+ in the new 7 Series, which means that the car can drive independently, but the person behind the wheel remains responsible for monitoring the traffic situation.

As far as autonomous driving is concerned, such cars are technological beacons. But will we all soon be letting ourselves be driven around by our cars? And will it become a problem when more and more automated cars meet cars that are still being driven by humans?

No quick breakthrough

It will take at least another 10 years before Level 3 driving assistants become established, says Professor Markus Lienkamp from the Chair of Automotive Engineering at the Technical University of Munich (TUM) in Germany.

"The sensors and cameras alone cost between US$3,000 and US$4,000, and the selling price of the traffic jam pilot as an option is around US$6,000. In purely economic terms, this will not pay off for compacts and small cars in the next few years," he says.

Andreas Rigling, who heads a test centre for active vehicle safety at German motoring organisation ADAC, also doesn't expect a breakthrough for Level 3 vehicles any time soon.

"Only when these assistance systems work absolutely safely at speeds of around 130kph will their use become the norm and not the exception, as it has been up to now,” he says.

In the US, some states permit the operation of fully autonomous vehicles on the roads. In Germany, automated driving has so far been limited to certain traffic situations on the autobahn, such as traffic jams.

Other European Union states, on the other hand, still require a responsible driver in every vehicle. According to Rigling, this could become a challenge with Level 2+ systems.

There’s a risk that drivers would come to rely too much on assistance systems, although the driver must still remain fully responsible at all times.

Who needs it?

Jan Becker is an expert on autonomous driving who teaches on the topic at Stanford University and who has developed operating software for automated driving cars with his company Apex.AI.

He sees the traffic jam assistant more as a convenience feature: "It's not really necessary." For that reason, authorities are unlikely to make it mandatory in the way that ABS and ESP are.

Automated driving does not seem to have much benefit for private cars, Lienkamp believes, but "from a business perspective, automated driving makes more sense for robot cabs, public buses or trucks."

But even if automated vehicles become common, they will probably never have the roads entirely to themselves. "There will always be mixed traffic on the roads, if only because of classic cars," says Andreas Rigling.

According to Professor Lienkamp, it could be a problem that humans and machines interpret traffic rules differently. "Natural human driving often deviates from traffic rules," he says, while computer-controlled cars are more precise.

But that could also be an advantage. In stop-and-go traffic, for example, a computer system would close gaps more quickly and thereby reduce congestion. Cars and traffic systems, such as traffic lights, will also be able to share information about traffic and road conditions.

But it will be years before this works smoothly and the appropriate infrastructure is in place.

"The automotive industry has not yet committed to a standard. Whether communication will later run via wi-fi or 5G has not yet been decided," Lienkamp says.


Ducati Malaysia offers free passes to Malaysia Motorcycle Grand Prix 2018

                KUALA LUMPUR: Ducati Malaysia is offering fans of the Italian motorcycle brand a chance to win free Malaysia Motorcycle Grand Prix (Sepang GP) 2018 Grandstand and Hillstand passes.

From now until Oct 31, a total of 80 Moto GP 2018 passes will be up for grabs.

Grandstand pass winners will be entitled to rebates on apparel during the race weekend at the Ducati booth and Ducati Moto GP Meet & Greet sessions.

Hillstand pass winners can enjoy exclusive giveaways and access to the Ducati pop-up store and bike displays.

To stand a chance to win Grandstand passes, fans will need to book or purchase any Ducati motorcycle at a selected authorised dealership and this is on a first come, first served basis.

To qualify for a lucky draw entry to win Shell Hillstand passes, the lucky winner will need to test ride a Ducati at a selected authorised dealer, take a photo of your Ducati riding experience, upload it on Instagram or Facebook with the hashtag #RIDEandWIN and don't forget to tag Ducati Malaysia (Instagram: @Ducati_MY, Facebook: @DucatiMY) as well.

The participating authorised Ducati outlets include Ducati Petaling Jaya, Ducati Kuala Lumpur, Ducati Penang and Ducati Sungai Buloh.

This year's Moto GP 2018 race weekend will be held from Nov 2 to 4 at the Sepang International Circuit.

For more information, log on to the company's Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/DucatiMY/) or Instagram page (https://www.instagram.com/ducati_my/).


UMW Toyota Motor posts strong April sales with 9,280 units

                SHAH ALAM: UMW Toyota Motor (UMWT), the sole importer, distributor and manufacturer of Toyota vehicles in Malaysia, today reported a strong and positive month of April in which new vehicle sales achieved 9,280 units for Toyota and Lexus.

Growth was largely driven by restored consumer purchasing confidence, an increasingly growing demand for new models; as well as consumers rallying to take advantage of savings with the exemption of Sales & Service Taxes that has been extended to June 30.

The performance in the month of April was greatly buoyed by the recently launched Corolla Cross and Harrier as Toyota continued to satisfy an increasingly growing demand for a new generation of adventurous consumers.

UMWT said it acknowledges the Government’s support towards the development of the automotive industry in Malaysia in light of the current pandemic situation.

“The Covid-19 pandemic has resulted in an extremely challenging year for both manufacturers and consumers, but measures put in place by the Government has successfully restored and strengthened consumer purchasing power,” said UMWT deputy chairman Akio Takeyama.

He also attributed the growth in sales to the timely introduction of numerous new models that have been able to firmly establish new benchmarks in the various vehicle segments by enhanced technological and safety features, styling and driving dynamics.

“The new generation of Toyota vehicles retains all the hallmarks of being reliable, robust, economical and practical but brings forward new levels of comfort, performance and driving enjoyment that resonates strongly with the evolving requirements of a new generation of consumers,” Takeyama said.

 Corolla Cross

UMWT president, Ravindran K. also underlined UMWT’s continued commitment for expansion and the enhancement of its sales and after sales service network, as well as the introduction of more innovative and attractive offers to reward customers with a greatly enhanced ownership experience.

In line with this pursuit, UMWT also announced the opening of a new 2S Sales and Service Centre in Cheras (PDC Automobile), and the opening of two new 3S Sales, Service and Spare Parts Centres in April led by Mutiara Motorsport in Johor Bahru and HLT Temerloh in Kemaman, Terengganu.

“Additionally, we have also been paying close attention to customers’ inclinations for online connections as indicated by strong digital preferences and gains that we have received through online enquiries and bookings," Ravindran said.

"We will continue our assertive pursuit on digitally-led avenues and serve our customers better on all platforms, moving forward,” he added.

In conjunction with the Hari Raya Aidilfitri festive period, UMWT is offering a Countless Rewards promotion in which customers will continue to enjoy enormous SST savings on both locally-assembled and imported models until June 30.

In addition, customers also stand to enjoy additional savings with Toyota Service Savers that provides peace-of-mind vehicle ownership with lower maintenance cost for their vehicles.

 Harrier

New car buyers can also opt to benefit from lower installments (depending on model) with UMWT’s EZ Beli financing scheme.

UMWT will also be releasung an annual Hari Raya Festive Film titled “Umi Pembaris” this week honouring timeless lessons on family values, culture and tradition that the company keeps ever so closely to its heart even in this age of change, transformation and modernisation.


Toyota wins award for innovative production technology

                TOYOTA CITY:  Toyota says its aluminum casting technology that results in lowering carbon dioxide emissions and high thermal efficiency in cylinder head production has won the 2019 Okochi Memorial Production Prize.

The award recognises remarkable achievements related to research and development, and the application of production engineering, production technology, and production systems annually.

Toyota received the prize for a world-first aluminium casting technology for cylinder heads, which affect engine performance.

The cooling water channels of a cylinder head are normally formed using molds made from sand and adhesive, known as a core.

The technology commonly used to make cores at present employs an organic material called phenolic resin as the adhesive. However, the casting process produces strong odours and smoke, giving rise to the issue of large deodorisation equipment required to deal with the odorous gas by-products.

The aluminum casting technology developed by Toyota uses the inorganic material, water glass, which does not cause odours or smoke.

Moreover, this world-first technology enables complex shapes to be created and the sand to be reused. Using water glass, which is not subject to thermal degradation, to adhesive the sand has succeeded in reducing odour concentrations during the casting process to 1/100th or less, thereby reducing the investment required in deodorisation equipment.

The last time Toyota won the award was three years ago. It is also the 12th Okochi Memorial Prize overall for Toyota.


In one Philly garage, women using their own elbow grease

Banks posing for a portrait at her garage in Upper Darby, Pennsylvania, earlier this month .— AFP
PHILADELPHIA: On the outside, the auto body shop looks like the three other garages in this unassuming suburb of Philadelphia. Inside, classic rock is blaring from a radio and the sweltering August heat is unforgiving.

But it's quickly apparent that this is no ordinary garage.

Shop forewoman Sue Sweeney -- clad in black shorts, a black tank top and a bandana -- is inspecting a car on a lift above her, while another woman passes her tools from a tray of equipment resting on a work bench. There are hardly any men to be seen.

Welcome to Girls Auto Clinic, where a fleet of women mechanics is breaking the mold in the male-dominated industry.

"I used to be a woman in the automotive industry that hated all my experiences," said founder and CEO Patrice Banks.

"I called myself an auto airhead. I always felt like I needed a guy to go to the mechanic with me or that I was being taken advantage of."

Banks was 31 and working as a manager at an engineering lab in 2012 when she decided to switch gears, head back to school and become a mechanic herself.

What began as monthly car workshops for women turned into a successful business.

Last year, Banks opened Girls Auto Clinic — complete with a nail salon for its predominantly female customers.

"I wanted to create a business where they feel welcomed and they feel empowered," the bubbly Banks said with a smile.

"If we are the number one customer, so many of us shouldn't be feeling mistreated or misunderstood."

In the United States, women make up about half of all drivers, according to the Department of Transportation, but they only account for about three percent of all automotive technicians and mechanics.

At Girls Auto Clinic, nine of the 10 employees are female. They call themselves "She-canics."

"I can come in, be me, I can dress however I want and I'm not going to get judged whether I look girly enough or too boyish because of the type of work I'm going to do," said Sweeney, 42.

During her 23 years in the business, Sweeney has heard every cliche in the book. One former colleague told her she "should be barefoot and pregnant in the kitchen."

But she says blatant sexism based on the physical nature of the work never deterred her.

As Sweeney hoists an engine into a car, Banks says: "She's incredible. And I'm like, who passed up on her?"

Banks, who sports a pair of red heeled work boots, changes a tire with ease, narrating her actions step by step, as she does in her recent book, "Girls Auto Clinic Glove Box Guide."

"It's relatable -- women get it," she says. "It's not boring car stuff like 'Let's talk about carburetors or horsepower.'"

Girls Auto Clinic has been open for just over a year, but has already built a loyal customer base. Banks estimates that 75 percent of her customers are women, many of whom drive a few extra miles for the unique repair experience.

"The skilled and construction trades have tried for decades to incorporate more women with limited success, but having a female-owned and -operated business with trained professionals sounds like a good idea," said Arthur Wheaton, professor of industrial and labor relations at Cornell University.

"There is certainly room for growth in the auto repair sector as fewer people go into the skilled trades."

Banks is hoping to capitalize on her success and turn the shop into a nationwide franchise. A recently launched crowdfunding campaign aims to help open two new locations in 2019 and three more by 2020.

"What's bigger than female empowerment right now?" Banks asked, convinced Girls Auto Clinic will become a household name among female drivers.

"We're riding that wave, people are looking for things like this. This is the right time."


Tesla finally entering Malaysia?

                PETALING JAYA: Tesla entered Singapore in 2021 and Thailand last year. Malaysians may not have long to wait as signs are showing that it could officially set up shop in Malaysia in the not-too-distant future.

In a regulatory filing with the US Securities and Exchange Commission, Tesla named Tesla Sdn Bhd as one of its subsidiaries in its FY2022 annual report.

Locally, a Companies Commission of Malaysia filing in October last year revealed that Tesla Sdn Bhd's business activity were the wholesale and retail of new motor vehicles; other service activities incidental to land transportation; and maintenance and repair of motor vehicles.

Tesla Sdn Bhd was formerly known as Tesla Services Sdn Bhd and was set up in Penang in 2017 to serve as a regional hub for the US company's accounting and finance activities in the Asia Pacific region as well as Europe, the Middle East and Africa.

It didn't last long and was shuttered by 2020 and reborn as simply Tesla Sdn Bhd last year.

Whether Tesla will set up shop in 2023 or later remains to be seen as it has not mentioned any market expansion in its latest note to investors.

READ MORE: Pekema proposes way to spur EV growth


BMW's new drop-top green machine

                LOS ANGELES: What's better than an environmentally friendly sports coupé? An environmentally friendly sports convertible.

And BMW's stand at the 2017 LA Auto Show revealed both: the all-new i8 Roadster and an impressively updated version of its existing i8 hybrid performance car.

Five years ago the hybrid hypercar raced into being thanks to McLaren, Ferrari and Porsche all using batteries to make their sportscars go like lightning.

But while these dream cars got all of the attention, BMW was busy building something similarly powered and similarly impressive: the i8 — an ultralight coupé built from exotic materials and powered by a tiny three-cylinder turbocharged engine plus a battery pack. It sipped fuel as if it were fighting a mild gasoline allergy, yet delivered the same sort of driving performance that would put any of its full-blooded ‘M' cars in the rearview mirror.

Fast-forward to today and none of the aforementioned battery-assisted McLarens, Ferraris or Porsches are still in production.

But the i8 still is (and is still 10 times cheaper than any of those cars), and at the LA Auto Show it has just become even more fun because now it comes as a hard top or a soft top but both models also get an improved engine and battery pack that have upped the total output to 374hp.

That doesn't sound like much at all, but in a car built from aluminum and carbon-fiber reinforced plastics it translates into a 0-100kph time of just 4.6 seconds and an electronically limited 250kph top speed.

And because the electric engine powers the front wheels and cancels out all turbo lag while the gasoline engine sends its power exclusively to the rear, the car's roadholding, grip and handling are exquisite.

The car was conceived as an electrification research facility on wheels. As customers bought the cars and as BMW built them, the technology underpinning the model would improve and evolve.

And that's why as well as a new drop top exterior, the car can boast a suitably improved power pack. It can now offer 53km of pure electric range and can offer it without capping speed. It can be driven in full electric mode at speeds of up to 120kph.

Even when the twin-turbo 1.4-litre engine kicks in to power the rear wheels or top up the battery pack, the car still delivers an incredible fuel economy of 2.1l/100km and in the hard top, which is 60km lighter, the economy is even better — 1.9l/100km.

The new BMW i8 Roadster will go on sale in May 2018 when prices will be confirmed


Honda Jazz 1.5V sampled

                Surprised. That was how I felt about the new Honda Jazz after just driving it from The Royale Chulan Damansara hotel in Petaling Jaya, Selangor to the Petronas petrol station in Lentang, Pahang (just further up from the Genting Sempah R&R area).

I was really pleasantly surprised with the overall look and performance of the car (and mind you I was travelling with two extra passengers and a trunkful of sporting paraphernalia besides our individual luggage packs).

You see, a whole bunch of us (around thirty members of the media) were invited to drive the new third generation 1.5L Jazz up to Kuantan, Pahang recently and drive back to Petaling Jaya the following day.

There were ten cars and it was already pre-packed with a variety of stuff in the boot and the back seat (which can be folded up) of each car.

All three of us just carried a light backpack each but we did not have a problem fitting all of it into the already packed boot.

That was a nice surprise. I took the wheel of the top-of-the-range Jazz V variant (there are two other variants, the base S and the mid range E) for the first stretch of the drive and the car is pretty nimble to handle under urban conditions.

The steering is light and its got a good turning radius of 5.1m which is small so you can make tight turns without much fuss at all.

And then we were on the Karak highway which has its fair share of steep climbing slopes and again, there was not a hint that the Jazz could not cope with the load in the vehicle.

I guess that should not be too surprising since this compact car packs the same punch as its sedan sibling, the Honda City sedan.

That’s right, the Jazz’s 1.5-litre i-VTEC engine mated to a continuous variable transmission produces 120PS at 6,600rpm and a maximum torque of 145Nm at 4,600rpm.

It was such a comfortable drive too but the steering feels pretty light at higher speeds that it might rattle your confidence going through turns and bends.

There was nothing to worry though as the car handled well even in such conditions.

I was really enjoying the drive and before I knew it, we reached the driver change-over stop at the Petronas station in Lentang and it was my turn to be the back seat passenger.

The V variant Jazz, priced at RM87,800 (on-the-road with insurance), comes with a seven-inch touchscreen display and I noticed that it was difficult to see under sunlight.

This was while I was driving and I thought it might be different if I sat in the back from a different viewing angle but it was not.

The screen doesn’t handle glare too well but this is by no means a deal breaker.

As soon I got in to the back, I noticed that there was more than enough legroom and headroom.

The new Jazz has a wheelbase of 2,530mm or 30mm more than the previous generation — so it’s really roomy back there which, again was a very nice surprise.

And boy was it comfortable back there.

Everybody who sat in the back would just fall asleep almost immediately and so did I.

Later on, we got off the highway and drove on the old road which had undulations and a rougher surface yet the Jazz’s suspension just absorbed all of it.

Coupled with the fact that the cabin is pretty quite inside with minimal noise, vibration and harshness (NVH), makes for a really enjoyable experience riding in this car.

We overshot our destination (Kuantan) on purpose so as to have lunch in Chukai, Terengganu.

Interestingly enough, if you’re in the market for keropok lekor - a fish cracker snack which originates from Terengganu - there are simply endless rows of shops and stalls selling the delicacy.

After lunch, we stopped by the beach nearby, Pantai Mak Nik, for a photography session and again the Jazz, when faced with really narrow roads had no trouble manoeuvring in and out of there.

In the end, I was left extremely impressed with the new Jazz.

I like the new look, which has shed its oval like appearance for a bolder yet still diminutive profile and the creases that run across its flanks are simply stylish.

The Jazz is flexible with the way the back and front passenger seats can be folded and reclined to fit long objects making it versatile where space and storage are concerned.

And safety-wise, it comes with six airbags (V variant only), hill start assist, emergency stop signal and vehicle stability assist which makes the new Jazz feature-packed, practical and just fun to drive.


The days of the gear shift are numbered as tech takes over

                BERLIN: Gone are the days when the gear knob was once a vital part of nearly every car like the steering wheel and the horn.

Automatic transmission and not manual is the preferred option for many drivers these days. With all-electric cars coming on stream even the stick shifts are now disappearing.

"The gear shift is dying out," says Alistar Whelan, who is in charge of interior design at Jaguar.

The number of cars fitted with automatics is growing steadily and electric motors with single-speed transmission make the conventional gearbox redundant.

In an electric motor, power is applied from the bottom all the way up to the top of an electric motor's revolution range so there is no need for a gearbox.

Internal combustion engines have a more narrow operating range and need more gears in order to produce power efficiently. Naturally it was not always like that. In the early days of the automobile, changing gears called for a degree of strength and manual dexterity.

The gear shift on a 1902 Mercedes Simplex for instance was a fearsome metal lever in a quadrant located on the outside of the passenger cabin.

 A 7-speed dual clutch automatic transmission from Kia.

Once gearboxes became smaller and more sophisticated the gear stick quickly moved inside the car where it has remained for well over 100 years.

According to Luca Borgogno, who heads design at Pininfarina in Italy, there is a psychological aspect to gear shifting which will also vanish when technology renders it obsolete.

Just holding the steering wheel and gripping the gear knob gives the driver a feeling of being in control of the car - or at least the engine. A hand on the gear knob is also a cool pose that suggests mastery, says the Italian.

It used to be important for a driver to know which gear he is in - especially when accelerating to overtake another vehicle. With an automatic you can see at a glance whether you are in Park, Reverse, Neutral or Drive and that is all that matters.

The gear shift has been evolving in recent years and many carmakers go in for a downsized and discreet function. Jaguar and Land Rover have replaced the gear stick with a rotary control on the transmission tunnel.

READ MORE:: Audi drops manual transmissions for US market The 6-speed dual clutch automatic gearbox of the Renault Captur.

The shifter on upmarket Mercedes-Benz models is no larger than the turn indicator switch and affixed to the steering wheel. Electric cars need only a “D” for drive, “R” for reverse and a “P” for parking, says Jaguar man Whelan.

Buttons like these can be installed almost anywhere on the fascia which makes space for practical features like more cupholders, says Whelan with a nod to the new I-Pace. Jaguar’s electric SUV has just three buttons where the gear stick used to be and an inductive charging cradle for mobile phones.

Many car designers do not want to see the gear stick vanish completely and some contemporary offerings can be regarded as the last fling of an outmoded control mechanism.

But while sporty cars will continue to have paddle shifters on the steering wheel linked to an automatic or manual box, some gear knobs are literally shifting upmarket, like the one adorned with exquisite Swarovski Crystals in BMW’s upcoming X7 premium SUV.


Proton to unveil electric vehicles as early as 2025

                PUTRAJAYA: Proton Holdings Bhd may accelerate the introduction of electric vehicles (EVs) suitable for Malaysian consumers as early as 2025 compared to 2027 as initially projected.

Deputy chief executive officer Roslan Abdullah said Proton is currently in the process of identifying suitable models of EVs that are more affordable and practical.

“We may have a model that is affordable but not practical, so we are identifying together with Geely to speed up the project and this is also on the recommendation of the government, especially the International Trade and Industry Ministry, to ensure that Proton accelerates the EV project.

“We will inform the media of the latest information,” he said after the launch of the Proton Rahmah 2023 campaign.

The campaign, which started yesterday until May 31, was launched by International Trade and Industry Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz.

It encourages Proton owners to send their vehicles to certified service centres for a free 40-point safety check, and service package worth RM150.

The campaign is targeted at owners of Proton Persona, Proton Iriz, Proton Exora, Proton Saga, as well as previous models including Proton Inspira, Proton Waja and Proton Wira.

Roslan said Proton expects 55,000 to 57,000 vehicles or eligible customers to get the service package during the campaign period.


Japan's ultra-exclusive Magarigawa driving club set to open in spring 2023

Construction of the track is still in progress.
TOKYO: For wealthy car lovers looking to live and play with their 800hp supercars, the Magarigawa Club could be just what they are looking for.

Asia's first full-fledged private driving club is set to open in the spring of 2023.

At its perimeter are luxury villas for sale. In the first round of bidding, all five units of the villas have sold out.

Four more villas are to be offered for sale before the opening of the club.

Named Owner’s Paddock, the accommodation is villa-style offering independence and privacy with immediate access to the clubhouse building with its hot spring baths, spa facilities, restaurant, bar lounge and fitness and training rooms.

Each villa has a private garage and a terrace with views over the driving track below.

The private space takes advantage of the sloping terrain and is integrated into the surrounding environment, allowing the owner to enjoy safe and relaxing moments with family and friends after a day's driving.

Only 50 memberships are offered with each priced at 29.8 million yen (a little over RM1mil). The offer period ends on June 30.

The club itself is divided into two decks, with an upper level giving a panoramic view of the clubhouse and Owner's Paddock/driving course. The lower level comprises a clubhouse restaurant, pool and bar lounge.

Located in a hilly part of Chiba prefecture, the driving club area spans 1 million sq m, with a track created by Tilke Engineering, which have designed over 80 racetracks worldwide including 19 Formula One circuits.

The track stretches 3.5km. It has a 800m long straight, 22 corners and elevation change of 80m. The maximum ascent is 20% and maximum descent is 16%.

It is located about an hour's drive from Tokyo and Haneda airport.


Audi reveals new A6 Avant

INGOLSTADT: Estate cars — or station wagons — are probably not as popular as they once were, but they still have a strong and committed following and some manufacturers are sticking with them. Audi is a manufacturer that's always been particularly renowned for its wagons, so the unveiling of the new A6 Avant to join the sedan will likely make plenty of enthusiasts very happy.

It could be the fact Audi gives its wagons their own distinct name of Avant, or it could just be because they are particularly adept at producing good-looking, high-quality vehicles of this type. Either way, few automakers carry off this body style quite as well as Audi does with its Avant models, and the new A6 variant is no exception.

Inevitably, the new A6 Avant will be measured and shopped against its two big rivals of the BMW 5 Series Touring and the Mercedes-Benz E-Class Estate, but the evolutionary styling enhancements it shares with its sedan sibling definitely put it right up there with the most desirable vehicles of its type.

Like the majority of new vehicles these days, the new A6 Avant is a little bigger than the model it replaces. It's now 10mm longer, 30mm wider and 6mm taller with reduced front and rear overhangs compared to its predecessor, but it's not enough for you to notice unless you're inside taking advantage of the extended wheelbase.

Although rear-seat passengers will enjoy a little more legroom than in the previous model, that all-important load bay remains exactly the same size as before. It would be a little greedy to want more though as it offers 565 litre of cargo space as standard, but as much as 1,680 litres if you fold the 40:20:40-split rear seats down flat.

Despite a wagon being an inherently practical choice for most buyers, Audi has chosen to sacrifice a little utility in the name of style with a more rakish tailgate. This could make swallowing larger items more challenging than in the past, but the company says it's a nod in the direction of the car's 100 Avant heritage.

The engine lineup will mirror that of the sedan, which means petrol and diesel V6s that will all feature 48-volt mild-hybrid technology and four-wheel drive, and they will be on sale from the summer.


Digital licence plate pilot programme begins in California

Reviver Auto's digital number plate with 'cause' message.
SACRAMENTO: California is often used as the testbed for new automotive technology in the US, and after a number of years in development a new digital number plate pilot programme is now getting under way in the Golden State.

Drivers in California will now be able to buy and fit these new plates that use the same E Ink screen technology as the Amazon Kindle e-reader and some wearable items, and also incorporate a wireless communication system. The revolutionary new plates were developed by a company called Reviver Auto and replace a traditional stamped plate. The system is available for both retail and commercial vehicles, although they don't come cheap.

The Sacramento Bee newspaper is reporting that dealerships are expected to offer the plates at a price of US$699 (RM2,785), but that doesn't include the cost of installation, the US$7 (RM28)-per-month service charge or the cost of registering the vehicle. Anyone who chooses to pay this amount of money for the new plates will be able to register their vehicle online instead of going in person to the DMV (Department of Motor Vehicles). Annual registration can also be done electronically, so there will no longer be a need to have annual year stickers as there is at the moment.

When the vehicle isn't moving, the digital plate can also be used to display custom messages, branding and advertisements, or more important information such as Amber alerts or road closures. The plate's number will still be on display, but it will be shown smaller and tucked away into the right hand corner.

There's also a built-in tracker that allows for geofencing, which is the creation of a virtual geographic boundary that allows software to trigger a response when the vehicle enters or leaves a particular area. The tracker can also be used to help an owner and the police locate a stolen vehicle, or at least the license plate, if it's been removed from the vehicle. Customers are also able to track and log trips based on time, distance and route using Reviver Auto's software, and if a vehicle is sold along with its digital plate the new owner can quickly and easily transfer the vehicle's ownership

Of course, much of this can already be done with other less costly systems that are already available. It will be interesting to see how well received the new plates are, and if they are something that will eventually become commonplace or disappear through lack of interest due to the expense.


Mercedes-Benz A-Class sedan arrives: A 200 at RM230K and A 250 at RM268K

                KUALA LUMPUR: The new Mercedes-Benz A-Class sedan (or limousine, as the German premium automaker prefers to call it) arrives in Malaysia in two variants: the A 200 Progressive Line and A 250 AMG Line at RM229,888 and RM267,888 (estimated) respectively on the road without insurance.

Both variants use a 7G-DCT dual-clutch automatic transmission, with the A 200 powered by a 1.33-litre turbocharged engine producing 163hp/250Nm while the A 250 has a 2.0-litre turbocharged engine producing 224hp/350Nm.

Other than that, the main differences between the two A-Class variants are the exterior and interior trim, as well as comfort seats in the A 200 and sports seats in the A 250.

The new A-Class sedan is said to offer segment leading rear headroom (944 mm).

It has a 420-litre boot, and a large boot opening to allow comfortable loading and unloading.

The new A-Class is the first Mercedes-Benz model to feature the completely new MBUX - Mercedes-Benz User Experience multimedia system.

MBUX is customisable and adapts to the user. Standard features include the MBUX infotainment system with touchscreen, and the latest-generation driving assistance systems such as Active Brake Assist and Active Lane Keeping Assist.

Also, for the first time, the A-Class is able to drive semi-autonomously in certain situations.

Improved camera and radar systems allow the car to see up to 500 metres ahead.

Mercedes-Benz A200 sedan (Progressive Line trim)Transmission & Technology

1.3L 4-Cylinder Turbocharged Petrol Engine
7G-DCT dual-clutch automatic transmission
Lowered comfort suspension
Direct-Steer system
DYNAMIC SELECT

Exterior Features

Progessive Line exterior
18-inch 5-twin-spoke light-alloy wheels
LED High Performance headlamps
Adaptive Highbeam Assist
Electrically folding and adjustable exterior mirrors

Comfort & Interior Features

Progessive Line interior
ARTICO leather
Black open-pore linden wood trim
Leather multifunction sports steering wheel
Comfort Seats
Ambient lighting
THERMATIC automatic climate control
Auto dimming interior and driver's side exterior mirror
Electrical adjustable front seats with memory function
Rear armrest
Double cup holder
4-way lumbar support

Safety & Assistance Package

Reversing camera
Active Parking Assist with PARKTRONIC
Active Brake Assist
Cruise control
KEYLESS-GO
PRE-SAFE
Kneebag
Anti-theft alarm system
Tyre pressure monitoring system
Run-flat tyres

Multimedia System

MBUX multimedia system
Hard-disc navigation
10.25-inch All-digital instrument display
10.25-inch Media Display
Touchpad
Apple CarPlay
Android Auto

Mercedes-Benz A 250 Limousine AMG LineTransmission & Technology

2.0L 4-Cylinder Turbocharged Petrol Engine
7G-DCT dual-clutch automatic transmission
Lowered comfort suspension
Direct-Steer system
DYNAMIC SELECT

Exterior Features

AMG Line exterior
18-inch AMG 5-twin-spoke light-alloy-wheels
LED High Performance headlamps
Adaptive Highbeam Assist
Electrically folding and adjustable exterior mirrors

Comfort & Interior Features

AMG Line interior
ARTICO leather/DINAMICA microfibre black
Light longitudinal-grain aluminium trim
Multifunction sports steering wheel in nappa leather
Sports seats
Heated front seats
Ambient lighting
THERMATIC automatic climate control
Auto dimming interior and driver's side exterior mirror
Electrical adjustable front seats with memory function
Rear armrest
Double cup holder
4-way lumbar support

Safety & Assistance Package

Reversing camera
Active Parking Assist with PARKTRONIC
Active Brake Assist
Cruise control
KEYLESS-GO
PRE-SAFE
Kneebag
Anti-theft alarm system
Tyre pressure monitoring system
TIREFIT

Multimedia System

MBUX multimedia system
Hard-disc navigation
10.25-inch All-digital instrument display
10.25-inch Media Display
Touchpad
Apple CarPlay
Android Auto


Sime Darby Auto ConneXion unveils year-end Ford service promotion

                KUALA LUMPUR: Sime Darby Auto ConneXion (SDAC), the sole distributor for Ford in Malaysia, has launched its year-end and Chinese New Year service promotion that runs from Dec 1 to Jan 21, 2023.

Customers who book a service during the campaign period will enjoy 20% savings on absorbers, brake pads, brake fluid, battery, wiper blades, and upper and lower radiator hoses and coolant.

The promotion is valid for selected Ford vehicles only and also does not apply for the next-generation Ranger, Raptor and the next-generation Everest.

For added peace of mind, all Ford owners can also take advantage of the complementary 27-point vehicle inspection conducted by Ford-certified technicians to ensure their vehicles are in tip-top condition.

Customers can rest assured that only Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) parts are used when servicing at any Ford Authorised Service Centres nationwide.

With Genuine Ford Parts, customers can be certain of the highest standards of quality, fit and finish as the parts are specifically designed for Ford vehicles to ensure superior performance.

They also come with a warranty of 12 months or 20,000km, whichever occurs first.

For added assurance, all Ford Authorised Service Centres are staffed and equipped only with Ford-certified technicians and diagnostic tools.

In addition to the standard five-year manufacturer’s warranty, customers can also take up the Ford Extended Warranty Plan (EWP), which offers the PremiumCare package, for up to seven years of coverage against unexpected repair costs.

To enjoy this PremiumCare package for the most comprehensive coverage, all customers need to do is purchase the plan before three years or 100,000km, whichever comes first.

Customers can also opt for the Ford Extended Service Package (ESP) and purchase it before their first service.

Through ESP, customers can make upfront payments for scheduled services for up to five years. A key benefit is cost savings as they can lock-in the current price amidst rising costs.

SDAC managing director Turse Zuhair said domestic travel has been on the rise post-pandemic.

“With the upcoming Christmas, New Year and Chinese New Year holidays falling on long weekends, more people will be travelling and connecting with loved ones. We hope this latest promotion will help our Ford customers stay safe on the roads while enjoying more savings,” he said.

Customers can also easily book a service appointment at their desired or closest Ford Authorised Service Centre online via the Ford website anytime and from anywhere.

For five authorised service centres nationwide namely, Ford Ara Damansara, Ford Petaling Jaya, Ford Juru, Ford Butterworth and Ford Kuching, the real-time e-Service appointment booking option is available.

This allows customers to immediately know available time slots as well as select and confirm their preferred schedule (up to one month in advance).

To make a service appointment booking online, click https://www.sdacford.com.my/owners/service-maintenance/book-a-service-appointment.

Alternatively, customers can make an appointment at their preferred Ford Authorised Service Centre, which can be located https://www.sdacford.com.my/owners/service-maintenance/locate-a-service-centre.

For more information regarding the promotion, visit www.sdacford.com.my.


GoCar offers great savings on Shopee 11.11 Sale

                KUALA LUMPUR:  Malaysian consumers looking for an affordable private transportation solution can take advantage of the upcoming 11.11 Shopping Festival to enjoy more savings on subscription plans offered by GoCar, Malaysia’s leading on-demand car-sharing platform.

Already the most affordable multi-brand car subscription in the market, GoCar Subs is offering an additional 30% discount with up to 5,000 free coins (worth RM50) on weekly and monthly plans on Nov 11, starting from 12am to 11.59pm.

This offer is not applicable with the existing deal available on Shopee for the Nissan Almera.

Meanwhile, customers who sign up for the 12-month, 24-month or 36-month subscription plan via the GoCar Subs store on Shopee during the 11.11 Festival will only need to pay a booking fee of RM10, instead of the normal RM100 booking fee.

Booking fees made via Shopee will be deducted from the first invoice total.

This 11.11 campaign applies across all five categories within GoCar Subs offerings – Cheap, Base, Plus, Expat and Luxe – with vehicles ranging from national-made brands like Perodua and Proton to luxury brands like MINI, Mercedes-Benz and more.

GoCar recently streamlined its subscription pricing with a new ‘One Price’ structure by reorganising all the vehicles in its garage into just five categories.

This allows GoCar Subs to offer one standard rate across all models within each category for each subscription plan option available.

Bookings are on a first-come, first serve basis.

On top of 11.11, GoCar Subs is also currently offering the NEW2SUBS promotion applicable to customers who subscribe 12 months and above.

* Get the first month free and 50% off the second and third-month subscription fee,

* Additionally, customers also get a free mileage upgrade to 2,500km from 1,650km,

* Swapping fee waiver for the first year if they decide to swap to another vehicle, with up to two swaps per year

Those who are interested in the GoCar Sub 11.11 sale can visit the GoCar Store on Shopee here.

For more information about GoCar Subs, visit www.gocarsubs.com.


More options now in Toyota's Kinto One subscription plan

                PETALING JAYA: Toyota Capital Malaysia Sdn Bhd has refined its Kinto One car subscription plan.

Subscribers can now choose from different yearly mileage packages starting from 20,000km to 30,000 km and choose a longer subscription of up to 5 years.

In addition, Kinto One now offer a Lite Package for those who don't travel much.

Kinto One is a joint collaboration between Toyota Capital Malaysia Sdn Bhd and UMW Toyota Motor.

For companies seeking a full-service lease product, Toyota Capital Malaysia Sdn Bhd is offering Kinto One Business. It said the plan would appeal to companies that wants to be light on their asset and lessen the unnecessary administrative works.

Current models available for Kinto One subscription includes popular models of Lexus and Toyota as well as Hilux and Hiace. A list of inventories together with its subscription prices are available at www.kinto-my.com.


Retiree wins BMW Z4 in Quill Auto contest

                PETALING JAYA: Retiree Wong Ngai Chee was picked as the grand prize winner of the Quill Automobiles’ X Marks The Future Contest, driving home a shiny new BMW Z4 sDrive30i M Sport.

The RM479,800 Z4 roadster, introduced only last year, is capable of hitting the 0-100kph mark in just 5.4 seconds.

The contest by the BMW dealer ran for six months from July last year, drawing over 3,000 entries.

Wong's daughter had bought an X1 for him as a surprise gift on Aug 13 last year, qualifying the 73-year-old for entry into the contest.

His name was picked in a lucky draw by Quill Group executive director Datuk Michael Ong at its BMW dealership here on Saturday.

Wong, who attended the prize-giving ceremony with his wife, was elated at his win and immediately called his daughter and other family members to inform them of the good news. "I wasn’t planning on attending the ceremony, but I’m so glad I decided to show up,” said Wong, who lives in Setia Alam, Shah Alam.

“My family and I have been loyal customers to Quill Automobiles for many years, and this once-in-a lifetime experience really makes our loyalty worthwhile.”

Second prize Winner Millie Yap and third prize winner Angeline Kwan took home a cabin-size Tumi luggage worth RM2,690 and a VIP dining experience at Le Petit Chef by Elements KL worth RM1,998, respectively.


More power and premium stuff in new Lexus RX

PETALING JAYA: The new fourth-generation Lexus RX sport utility vehicle (SUV) has more premium features and better driving performance.

Offered in six variants, it is priced on-the-road without insurance at RM388,800 (RX 200t Premium); RM408,400 (RX 200t Luxury); RM422,990 (RX 200t F Sport); RM457,800 (RX 350 Luxury); RM486,300 (RX 350 F Sport) and RM520,200 (RX450h hybrid).

It come with a warranty of three years/100,000km (whichever comes first).

The RX 450h has an extra Lexus Hybrid Battery eight-year warranty, regardless of mileage.

The RX200t variants are powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged and direct-injected inline 4-cylinder petrol engine, and a 6-speed automatic transmission.

This 2.0-litre turbo engine produces 235hp from 4,800 to 5,600rpm with 350Nm of torque from 1,650 to 4,000rpm.

The RX 350 has a 3.5-litre direct-injected V6 petrol engine mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission, which delivers 295hp at 6,300rpm with 370Nm of torque available between 4,600 and 4,700rpm.

For the RX 450h hybrid, its 3.5-litre mill produces 258hp at 6,000rpm with 335Nm at 4,600rpm.

Total system output of the hybrid powertrain is 308hp, and power delivery is via an E-CVT (electronically-controlled continuously variable transmission).

Meanwhile, all variants have illumination at the door handles with a key-less hole design, Blind Spot Monitor and Rear Cross Traffic Alert, 10 airbags, rear view camera, all-wheel drive (AWD), and huge 20-inch wheels with 235/55 tyres.

Except for the RX 200t Premium, all variants also have a moonroof and a Panoramic View Monitor which gives the driver a bird’s-eye view of the area around the car.

The new RX is also bigger than before, with a 50mm increase in wheelbase which provides more cabin room for five occupants.

Lexus says every new RX is painted at its factory in Japan, with a scratch-resistant self-restoring coat which uses a high-performance macromolecular polymer.

The high elasticity of the material helps resist scratches, such as from fingernail marks around the door handles. The paint also possesses a high level of gloss retention.

Meanwhile, the top two variants, namely the RX 350 F Sport and RX 450h hybrid have a Heads Up Display (HUD) projected on the windscreen directly ahead of the driver.

This is a Lexus first and the large 240 x 90mm colour display, the largest in a Lexus vehicle, allows for a variety of information to be presented to the driver.

Two audio systems are offered – the Lexus Premium Audio Surround System with 12 speakers and a Class D amplifier, and the superlative Mark Levinson Surround System.

The Mark Levinson system is only in the top two variants, and features 15 Green Edge speakers and has automatic sound volume adjustment (a Lexus first).

Another world first is the unique design of the front cup holders, where their depth can be adjusted to suit a variety of containers from tall plastic bottles to short cups or cans.

The analogue clock positioned in the centre of the dashboard has its time setting automatically adjusted via GPS (global positioning system), a feature which will be appreciated by RX owners who drive to Thailand.

A Lexus first is the touchless rear door operation for the top three RX variants, where the door can be opened by just holding a hand near the Lexus emblem.

Also, the F Sport variants come with Adaptive Variable Suspension, which enhances handling and stability.


2016 Paris Motor Show: Porsche's new 911 GT3 Cup ready to go racing

                PARIS: Porsche has unveiled its new 911 GT3 Cup that has been completely redeveloped and now looks set to do battle on the world's race tracks next year.

The world's best-selling racecar has a naturally aspirated 4.0-litre flat-six engine in the rear to deliver 485hp to the rear wheels.

The engine now possesses a valve drive with stiffer mounted rocker arms and a central oil feed for the very first time.

Additionally, there's now an integrated oil centrifuge, a stiffer crankshaft, new front and rear apron for better downforce generation to improve traction and grip levels.

With a ready-to-race weight of 1,200kg, the race car's 1,840mm-wide rear wing from its predecessor has been retained, along with the body's aluminium-steel composite construction, one-piece central-locking 18-inch racing wheels with 270mm-wide Michelin racing slicks for the front and 310mm for the rear.

For safety, there's a solid safety cage and a bucket-style racing seat that's been moulded heavily around the head and shoulder areas.

Furthermore, the rescue hatch in the roof has been enlarged, which is in line with the latest FIA standard, to make it easier to provide initial treatment and recovery following an accident.

Porsche manufactures the 911 GT3 Cup on the same production line as the 911 road car in its main plant in Stuttgart-Zuffenhausen.

The basic race tuning is performed at the Weissach motorsport centre, where vehicles are also thoroughly tested by a professional race driver prior to delivery to the customer.

Some 3,031 units of the 911 GT3 Cup have been built in the 996, 997 and 991 model lines since 1998, making the brand's cup racing car from Stuttgart the most-produced and most-sold GT racing car in the world.

The new 911 GT3 Cup will be used in the 2017 race season, initially exclusively in the Porsche Mobil 1 Supercup, which is held alongside the Formula 1 races, and in the Porsche Carrera Cup Deutschland, as well as in North America. As of 2018, the car will also be available for other brand cups.

In total, Porsche is organising 20 of these race series for customer teams around the world, with the 911 GT3 Cup being used exclusively.