Petron introduces RON 100 Euro 4M petrol

PETALING JAYA:  Petron has come out with a new fuel called Blaze 100 Euro 4M, costing RM2.80 per litre.

The RON 100 petrol is the most technologically advanced fuel in Malaysia, priced even above Shell's V-Power Racing Euro 4M (RM2.65 per litre) to reflect its advantage.

Blaze 100 contains a Tri-Active formula that promises better power, engine protection and better fuel economy. While high performance cars have the most to gain from using the RON 100 petrol, ordinary cars will still register a noticeable improvement in engine performance as well as cleaner engine because of the fuel's higher additive dosage and better fuel economy

At the launch today at the Batu Tiga Petron station in Shah Alam, Porsche and Lotus owners and media members were given the chance to fuel up with Blaze 100 for free.

Eight Petron stations will initially offer Blaze 100 - recognised through the silver-coloured pump - in Klang Valley and Johor. More stations will start offering the new fuel in the coming months.

The fuel is produced locally at Petron's refinery in Port Dickson.

CarSifu took the opportunity to test Blaze 100 by filling up a near-empty Perodua Myvi 1.3 automatic with the fuel soon after the launch.

The improvement was almost immediate after starting up the car with the engine becoming more powerful, smoother and responsive.

The vibration level at idle was also much lower and more comfortable in the Myvi which was running on RON95 petrol before the fill-up.

With noticeable increase in acceleration performance, we would say that the Myvi 1.3 now feels like a Myvi 1.5.

Try out Blaze 100 and judge for yourself.

Petron stations selling Blaze 100 now are Petron ML3 Federal Highway; Petron Taman Tun Dr Ismail; Petron Damansara Kayu Ara; Petron Kesas West Bound; Petron Jalan Maarof, Bangsar; Petron Sg Besi Toll South Bound; Petron Skudai Toll North Bound; and Petron Linkedua South Bound.


Ford may run EV business separately, says report

                DETROIT: Ford is considering ways to separate its electric-vehicle operation from its legacy business, Bloomberg News reported on Friday, citing people familiar with the effort.

Chief executive officer Jim Farley has considered spinning off Ford's electric operations or its internal combustion engine business, the report said.

Ford, however, denied plans to spin off either of the businesses.

"We’re focused on carrying out our Ford+ plan to transform the company and thrive in this new era of electric and connected vehicles," the company said in an emailed statement.

Under the strategy dubbed "Ford+", the No. 2 US automaker had last year outlined plans to spend over US$30 billion on EVs by 2030.

Ford said last month it would have the annual capacity to build 600,000 electric vehicles globally within 24 months.


S. Korea to pump US$896mil into self-driving tech by 2027

                SEOUL: South Korea said Tuesday it will spend some US$896mil (RM3.9bil) by 2027 on developing technologies for "high automation" vehicles that can lead growth in the automobile market, Yonhap News Agency reported.

The investment calls for the development of "level four" autonomous cars, according to the Ministry of Science and ICT.

There are six levels of self-driving cars that range from no automation "level zero" all the way up to "level five" that is fully autonomous with a vehicle being able to drive itself without almost any human input.

READ MORE: Six levels of driving automation explained in simple terms

The level four cars are called "high automation" vehicles that can fully control steering and speed, and normally can be driven without the driver controlling the vehicle in most situations.

These cars can also be driven in full automation mode in certain areas.

At present, most cars on the road referred to as autonomous vehicles are "level two" cars with "driver assistance" programmes.

These offer some steering control to keep a car inside a lane and manage the speed to maintain a set distance from other cars but require constant attention and input from the driver, with self-driving only allowed in very restricted areas.

The ministry then said the country will need to create supporting services and an ecosystem that involves close cooperation between various state actors and the private sector.


Ferrari 488 GT3 Evo 2020 unveiled

                SCARPERIA (Italy): The new version of the 488 GT3, which will compete in the main international GT championships in 2020, was unveiled at the Oct 24-27 Ferrari Finali Mondiali at Mugello.

The new Evo package is the result of Ferrari’s desire to further refine certain aspects of one of the most successful cars in the marque’s history.

This has been achieved using innovative concepts derived from its track experience and feedback from the teams competing with the 488 GT3.

Aerodynamics, vehicle dynamics, ergonomics, safety and reliability were the main focuses of development, all, of course, in compliance with the strict power and aerodynamic efficiency performance limits imposed by FIA regulations.

The engineers honed the 488 GT3 Evo 2020's aerodynamics to boost the car's stability with the new front-end design making a significant contribution.

Over 18,000 hours of calculations and CFD simulations, followed by wind tunnel testing, went into the design of a new bumper with a smaller frontal section under the headlights.

This has allowed the introduction of a pair of flicks to generate more downforce, making the car more stable without modifying the aero balance thanks in part to turning vanes inside the splitter.

Aerodynamic development also extended to other areas of the front of the 488 GT3: the vents on top the wings are larger than the current model and the front section of the door is now more tapered to more efficiently channel lateral flows.

The vents on the rear wing have also been completely redesigned.

The 488 GT3’s vehicle dynamics have been key in its success, and this area has been further improved in the new 488 GT3 Evo 2020.

The wheelbase is longer, as in the 488 GTE, to optimise tyre use, reduce tyre wear and facilitate the conversion from GT3 to GTE.

The engineers also focused on reducing the car's weight with the result that more ballast can be used to attain the minimum weight imposed by the Balance of Performance, thus lowering the centre of gravity.

In addition all the vehicle dynamic controls, including the traction control and ABS, have been optimised.

No performance upgrades have been made to the engine, a twin-turbo V8 with a 90-degree angle between the cylinder banks, nor have any components been modified.

However, it does benefit from a new engine management system which improves reliability and guarantees smoother, more precise torque delivery.

Endurance racing has evolved to the extent that it is increasingly resembling extended sprint racing. This demands meticulous attention to detail, including in the cockpit.

The 488 GT3 Evo 2020 debuts a new seat which meets the new FIA safety regulations.

Developed jointly with Sabelt for both the GT3 and GTE, it is not only more rigid and robust but is also 2.4 kg lighter with new belts and a new buckle.

The additional 24H/Endurance package is specifically designed for clients interested in that particular type of racing.

The basic equipment includes a front bumper with additional headlights, quick-fill couplings for engine oil and coolant, carbon-fibre clutch, brake callipers adopted from the GTE and steel wheel nuts.

Optional features include sensors for the coolant level and refuelling completion with warning lights, and Le Manstype, 4,500 lumen LED main headlights.

The new components and improvements introduced in the 2020 version of the 488 GT3 Evo are also available as upgrade kits for existing cars.


Ford unveils chic noise-cancelling kennel just in time for New Year's fireworks

                COLOGNE: Ford is taking its Active Noise Control tech out of the car and into a kennel prototype to create a safe place for pets while we celebrate the New Year with fireworks.

To kick off Ford's new series of initiatives — called Interventions — that apply automotive tech to non-automotive applications, the company unveiled a prototype of a new Quiet Kennel, a place where dogs and their ultra-sensitive hearing can be safe and feel at ease when fireworks or thunder starts sounding.

Nearly half of dogs in the UK show signs of fear upon hearing fireworks, the sounds of which can be difficult to muffle even inside a home. Ford saw this as an opportunity to use the Edge SUVs noise-cancelling tech to solve an everyday issue which affects both pets and their owners alike.

Just like the technology counteracts engine or transmission sounds using opposing sound waves, when the kennel detects fireworks, it begins cancelling out the sound. High-density cork is a key material in this product, because it's able to significantly reduce sounds until they're nearly undetectable.

Ford noted that the Quiet Kennel is "just a prototype for now" suggesting that the company may bring it into production in the future, but there's no indication when that will happen — if ever — or at what cost.


Honda starts hyping about upcoming Fit (Jazz)

                LOS ANGELES: Honda's refreshing the Fit (Jazz) and it's going to be more stylish and sporty, while being equipped with the an added safety and driver assistive technologies.

"With sporty new styling and additional feature content, the 2018 Honda Fit ups the ante with new styling and sophistication not typically found in the subcompact segment," said American Honda Automobile Division senior vice president Jeff Conrad.

In the US, the Fit's going to feature a new horizontally layered, two-piece chrome and piano black grille with an enlarger "H", newly designed and more integrated pair of headlights, chrome front bumper accents, front splitter, and front fog lights.

At the rear, the redesigned bumper features a piano black accent, splitter-shaped lower section and new rear cluster lights.

In the United States, the Fit Sport variant will be positioned between the range-topping LX and entry-level EX.

The Sport variant will feature a full body kit, including one bright orange front splitter, black 16-inch wheels, rear tri-strake diffuser with bright orange upper trim line, chrome exhaust tips and "Sport" badges.

It will also be adding two new colours – Helios Yellow Pearl (replacing Mystic Yellow) and Orange Fury, to the current list of White Orchid Pearl, Lunar Silver Metallic, Modern Steel Metallic, Crystal Black Pearl, Milano Red and Aegean Blue Metallic.

The inclusion of Honda Sensing, which seems to be standard in all variants, adds adaptive cruise control, collision mitigation braking system, lane keeping assist system with lane departure warning and road departure mitigation with road departure warning to the list of safety features.

In doing so, the Fit effectively becomes the only vehicle within its segment to have such an exceptional spread of safety and driver assistive technologies.

"Fit has always represented a great value for subcompact customers and the addition of available Honda Sensing to its fun-to-drive performance and unmatched versatility will keep the Honda Fit as the industry's benchmark subcompact," added Conrad.

This is the third-generation Fit's first update since the launch of the 2015 model in 2014.

More in-depth information about the upgrades to the 2018 Fit, including expanded feature content will be provided in the near future.


VW to unveil first car built on MEB electric platform at Frankfurt Motor Show

                WOLFSBURG: Volkswagen announced last Friday that the fully electric ID.3 will make its world premiere at the Frankfurt Motor Show, which kicks off next week.

Despite Volkswagen opening pre-booking for the ID.3 back in May, the EV built on the MEB platform has yet to have its vapourwave wraps taken off; nevertheless, over 10,000 registrations were made during the first 24 hours they were opened.

Next Tuesday, those clients will finally get a look at what the model looks like sans camouflage.

The company equates the ID.3 with the Beetle and Golf models because of its representation of the "third major chapter of strategy importance for the history of the Volkswagen brand."

When it launches, the EV will be available with three battery configurations: 77kWh, 58kWh, and 45kWh with ranges spanning between 330km and 550km. The base model will have a starting price of €30,000 (RM139,000).

The motor show will run from Sept 10-22. Production of the model is expected to begin at the end of this year with deliveries starting in mid-2020.


Love for antique cars allows 'Nasi Lemak Volvo' seller to boost sales

A different take. Mohsin and his wife selling 'nasi lemak' using the front of a Volvo 122 Amazon as the base for their stall. — Bernama
BATU PAHAT: A man's love for a classic car model – the Volvo 122 Amazon – has paid off as he uses a modified unit to sell nasi lemak, which has drawn a large clientele due to its unique look.

Mohsin Yusop, 40, who sells nasi lemak in Senggarang here, says he has a collection of 10 units of the same car model, which was produced during the 1960s.

He said five of his cars have been modified and two out of these are being used by him and his wife, Norazlina Jaafar, 38, to sell nasi lemak.

Because of the novel use of the vehicle, customers have labelled the stall "Nasi Lemak Volvo RM1".

He said he had even given the five cars names such as "Master Hawk", "Mini On" and "Sampan Volvo Jaguh".

 Mohsin showing a Modenas Jaguh motorcycle hooked up to a classic Volvo that has been cut into half. — Bernama

Mohsin added that another car from the five is regularly rented out for ceremonies like weddings and retirements.

He added that he had spent about RM60,000 on his hobby so far.

"One of the cars is now being modified into a food truck for me to sell nasi lemak in the future, ” he said.

According to Mohsin, he started collecting the cars five years ago after finding it difficult to ferry his nasi lemak on his Modenas Jaguh motorcyle to the place of business located about 1km from his house.

He then customised an antique car he had bought a few years back to transport 500 packs of nasi lemak daily.

"I did not expect the Volvo and Modenas Jaguh combination to became an attraction that would boost our sales, ” said the father of three children, aged five to 13.Mohsin said while most of his cars are modified, he still keeps one in its original form as his main transportation.

"Initially, many said it was weird seeing me buying old junks – but now after witnessing the results, they finally understand, ” said Mohsin.


Aiways starts shipping first cars overseas

                SHANGHAI: Aiways, the Shanghai-based personal mobility provider, has started the first overseas shipment of its U5 all-electric SUV, with 500 units leaving the company’s smart plant here.

The cars will arrive at the French island of Corsica next month. Residents and tourists on the island will be the first consumers in Europe to experience the Aiways U5, which will be available to rent from Hertz Corsica, operated by local company Filippi Auto.

With this shipment, Aiways becomes the first Chinese startup to deliver EVs to the European Union (EU), at a time when EU countries are ramping up investment in smart, zero emission transportation and build a sustainable recovery from the Covid-19 pandemic.

During its epic 15,022km, 53-day EV road trip from Xi’an to Frankfurt in 2019, an engineering team in two Aiways U5 prototypes passed through more than a dozen European countries. During the journey the cars were showcased to numerous partners and suppliers, such as Grupo Antolin in Besançon, attracting widespread praise for their quality and performance.

In celebration of Aiways’ first overseas shipment, the company held a special ceremony in Shanghai, where Aiways has the current capability to build 150,000 vehicles per annum. Aiways executives and employees were joined by representatives from the Chinese government and automotive industry.


CKD BMW 630i GT M Sport debuts at RM418K

                KUALA LUMPUR: The locally-assembled BMW 630i GT M Sport has arrived.

The grand tourer is priced at RM417,659.05 (without SST) and RM430,800 (with SST). It was launched alongside the 530e M Sport and 530i M Sport.

The new 630i GT features revised headlights, a larger kidney grille, new bumper and LED headlight design. BMW Laserlight is an option if you want to pay extra.

A new bumper shape and a new diffuser insert come with the M Sport package, complemented by two-sided trapezoidal exhaust pipes. An active rear spoiler for the tailgate comes as standard, increasing downforce at higher speeds. The 630i GT comes with 20-inch alloy wheels with mixed run-flat tyres.

The spoiler automatically deploys at 120kph and is retracted once the car slows down to 80kph. Meanwhile, manual operation is available via a button on the centre console. For added convenience, the 630i GT comes with the Comfort Access System and BMW Display Key.

The 630i GT is powered by an inline four-cylinder petrol engine capable of a maximum output of 258 hp, a peak torque of 400 Nm and a top speed of 250kph. The century sprint is completed in 6.5 seconds.

The generous, luxurious interior and slightly elevated seats (by 5 cm) ensure pleasant journeys and all-round visibility. Leather Dakota upholstery, individual headliner anthracite and fine-wood ash trunkwood open-pored trim with Pearl Chrome highlight trim finisher are amongst the highlights.

From the driver’s seat, the standout feature is the fully digital instrument display along with the central Control Display – its size increased from 10.25 inches to 12.3 inches. The High Gloss Black control buttons in the centre console and instrument panels in Sensatec appear sophisticated and elegant. Standard are 4-zone climate control, sports seats for both driver and front passenger, along with M leather steering wheel and head-up display for the driver.

BMW says the rear seat bench provides three full-size seats, along with generous legroom. Additional touches to comfort are roller sunblinds – electrical for the rear window and mechanical for rear passengers’ side windows. A two-part panoramic glass roof at just over one metre in length and 90cm wide, creates an airy space. Complementing the array of comfort features is a 16-speaker Harman Kardon audio system.

The car is equipped with Driving Assistant and Parking Assistant Plus, as well as active cruise control with Stop&Go function. AThe car also gets a fully digital BMW Live Cockpit Professional with BMW Operating System 7, which provides access to a world of BMW digital features. These features include navigation, the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant, 4G LTE connectivity and various services such as Remote Software Upgrade and over-the-air map updates for the navigation system.

Four exterior colours are offered – Bernina Grey Amber Effect, Mineral White, Carbon Black and Sophisto Grey Brilliant Effect. For the interior, customers can choose either Leather ‘Dakota’ Black or Leather ‘Dakota’ Cognac.

SPECIFICATIONSBMW 630i GT


Chinese-owned Qiantu K50 all set for NY reveal

                LOS ANGELES: A Chinese company with ambitions to break into the US market will be showing off its first product - the Qiantu K50, an electric supercar.

The car will be revealed at the April 17-28 New York International Auto Show.

Production of the car has been outsourced to a new California outfit called Mullen Technologies, which has been assigned the job to homologate, assemble and sell the vehicle in North America. Deliveries of first orders is expected to be in 2020.

The K50 is Qiantu’s flagship model and combines a 296kW/402hp engine mounted on an all-aluminum frame with an aerodynamic carbon fibre design that combines lighter weight and a stronger downforce for optimal performance and handling.

The sculpted carbon-fiber body adds a futuristic element and is available in six colours.

The car is still a work in progress. Additional K50s are arriving at Mullen R&D centre, where diagnostic and battery testing as well as homologation process will begin.

Qiantu is a subsidiary of CH-Auto Technology Corporation Ltd. Beijing-based CH-Auto was set up in 2003 and it designs, develops, manufactures, and sells conventional vehicles, new energy vehicles and military vehicles.


Carmakers from Audi to Renault begin rebooting Europe plants

                NEW YORK: Volkswagen AG’s Audi unit is among automakers gradually reopening factories in Europe, even as the Covid-19 lockdowns drag on across much of the region.

Some 100 workers at Audi’s Gyoer, Hungary site, one of the world’s largest engine plants, restarted output on an assembly line in a single-shift system, the company said Tuesday. A second line is set to follow at the end of this week.

Manufacturers are facing a crushing economic blow after governments across Europe placed restrictions on public life to combat the pandemic, which has claimed some 120,000 lives worldwide. The slump may mean 3 million lost vehicle sales this year in Europe, or €60 billion (RM285bil) in lower revenue, according to Bloomberg Intelligence analyst Michael Dean.

After weeks of restrictions, governments and corporations are sketching out exit strategies. Still, any efforts to get the economy back on track are likely to be gradual, and may encounter setbacks if the virus resurges.

In Germany, chancellor Angela Merkel will discuss possible steps to ease restrictions with leaders of the German states today.

The talks are set to influence when and how quickly the country’s automotive giants, from Daimler AG to BMW AG, start revving up factories in Germany, the region’s carmaking heartland.

Rebooting Europe’s sprawling industrial network will prove complex. Supply chains are closely intertwined across regions, transport restrictions are poised to remain in place for some time and the number of infections is still relatively high in some areas.

Industry executives have warned against a hastily arranged restart and called for a coordinated European approach, even as crisis-fighting measures vary from country to country.

Renault SA has restarted a portion of operations in Portugal, and plans to resume part of its production in Romania on April 21, a spokesman said.

Russian operations gradually began restarting on Monday. Hyundai’s car-making facility in Nosovice, Czech Republic, is resuming output with two shifts instead of the usual three, CTK reported.

At Audi, Volkswagen’s biggest profit contributor, vehicle production in Hungary could start toward the end of next week. VW, the world’s biggest automaker, employs about 470,000 people across Europe, the majority of its global workforce of around 670,000.

"The company is doing everything to safeguard the health of employees,” Audi said in the statement.

VW has kept some components operations running in Germany during the shutdown, with a total of 1,700 employees across five sites, to safeguard parts supplies to factories in China where the industrial recovery is progressing.

While a moderation in new infections prompted Austria and Denmark to start easing restrictions, France just extended a lockdown that might push the bloc’s second-largest economy into a deeper recession. Britain is also likely to lengthen restrictions, Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab told reporters.

Even if auto production resumes, it’s not clear when showrooms will reopen or whether consumers will want to buy.

Dealerships are increasingly feeling the pinch from the sales halt imposed last month, German car data provider DAT said Tuesday.

Cars lose €28 (RM133) in value on average each day, so a dealer with inventory of 300 vehicles is already facing €235,200 in costs to date, according to DAT.


GM CEO Barra first woman to chair Business Roundtable

                WASHINGTON: General Motors chief executive Mary Barra was today named chair of the Business Roundtable, the automaker confirmed, making her the first woman to lead the influential group of US business leaders.

Barra, who has headed the largest US automaker since 2014, was elected by fellow CEOs to succeed Doug McMillon, president and CEO of Walmart, who has chaired the Business Roundtable since January 2020.

The Business Roundtable, founded in 1972, includes other well-known business executives such as Apple CEO Tim Cook and JPMorgan Chase & Co CEO Jamie Dimon. Members collectively lead companies with 20 million employees and more than US$9 trillion in annual revenues, according to the group.

Barra will serve a two-year-term at a time when businesses face major issues in Washington, including proposals in Congress to hike corporate taxes and new environmental regulations.

The group has taken positions on a number of issues, including backing a US$1.2 trillion infrastructure bill as well as policing and immigration reforms.

"I look forward to continuing to help advance policies that offer greater economic growth and opportunity for all Americans," Barra, who joined the roundtable in 2017, said in a statement.

Barra, who has worked at GM in a series of positions since 1980, was the first woman to run a global automaker and regularly appears in media rankings of top executives.


Vehicle sales dip in June, to stay at same levels in July

                KUALA LUMPUR: Vehicle sales dipped in June to 50,275 units, which was lower from a year ago and in May due to the shorter working month, the Malaysian Automotive Association (MAA) said.

The trade body said on Monday the sales were 0.6% lower when compared with the 57,362 units in May. “Sales volume in June was 12% or 7,087 units lower than a year ago because of the shorter working month due to the Hari Raya festive holidays,” it said.

Of the 50,275 units sold in June, passenger vehicles accounted for 45,339 and the rest were commercial vehicles. Year-to-date, unit sales were at 284,461 units, up 3% from the 275,483 units in the previous corrsponding period.

As for the current month of July, the MAA expected sales to be maintained at the June level. It explained that one factor was the delay in the process of vehicles registrations due to uncertainties arising from the liberalisation of motor insurance from July 2017. The liberalisation of tariffs came into effect on July 1.

The MAA data also showed vehicle production declined 21.3% to 32,179 units in June compared with 40,928 units a year ago. Year-to-date, production fell 2.9% to 255,318 units from 262,963 units in the previous corresponding period.


Proton to ramp up exports in 2021

                SUBANG JAYA: With domestic sales on a tear in 2020 despite a pandemic, Proton is looking at stepping up exports in 2021.

As many as five market introductions will take place in the coming weeks.

Proton will soon announce the start of CKD and sales operations in Kenya and Pakistan as well as the international market debut of the X50 in Brunei.

Bangladesh and Egypt will also be hosting virtual product launches for the current Saga this month. This will be followed by a similar launch to occur in Nepal just as the year draws to a close.

Proton’s export business has grown 10.6% so far this year.

“While local market leadership is one of our targets, it is equally vital for the Proton brand to build up its presence internationally, representing both the company and Malaysia," said Proton Holdings Bhd chairman Datuk Sri Syed Faisal Albar.

"This was part of the 10-year plan that was devised at the beginning of our strategic partnership with Geely.”

Exports of Proton cars began with the Saga in 1989 and since then, 405,267 units have been sold in various markets globally.

At the end of November 2020, the number of Proton vehicles exported to other countries had already exceeded the total from the year before.


DualShock4 controls Nissan GT-R/C around Silverstone

                LONDON: Nissan has modified one its GT-R sportscars so that it can be controlled by a Sony Playstation DualShock4 controller around the Silverstone race track.

The feat was done to celebrate the upcoming launch of the Gran Turismo Sport game that's due out in Europe on Oct 18, while marking 20 years of Nissan's involvement in the Gran Turismo gaming series.

The remote-controlled vehicle, dubbed the GT-R/C is capable of reaching a top speed of 315kph – not restricted for the purpose of the project car – with no one sitting behind the wheel.

It was put through its paces by NISMO racing driver Jann Mardenborough around Silverstone from the cockpit of a Robinson R44 Raven II helicopter, which had been given special permission to operate at a low altitude around the track.

Jann is one of the most successful winners of the GT Academy, which is Nissan’s revolutionary driver discovery and development programme, and was subsequently approached to be the first driver of the car thanks to his skills in both the Gran Turismo game and real-life motorsport.

The GT-R/C was engineered in the United Kingdom by JLB Design, using a standard-spec 542bhp V6-powered 2011 R35 – the same year Jann won in the GT Academy.

His fastest lap was 1min 17.47 seconds and averaged 122kph with a top speed of 131mph/211kph around the track – the average speed around the 2.6km track is 134kph.

Four robots were used to operate the steering, transmission, brakes and throttle, while six computers housed within the boot updates the controls at up to 100 times per second and the steering position is measured to one part in 65,000.

The unmodified DualShock4 has a 1km wireless operation range and connects to a microcomputer which interprets the joystick and button signals and transmits them to the car's on-board systems.

To help Jann judge the vehicle’s speed through the corners, a Racelogic VBOX Motorsport sensor was installed to relay speed data to a LCD display in the helicopter cockpit.

The car is also fitted with two independent safety systems, operating on different radio frequencies, which allow two additional operators to apply full ABS braking and cut the engine in the event of the main operator losing control of the vehicle.

Next year, the car will be go on tour to primary and secondary schools in the UK to promote future careers in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths) subjects.


Toyota Gazoo Racing: Taking on the challenge

                THE Toyota Gazoo Racing (GR) festival which was introduced in 2017, has become one of the popular local events not only for motorsports fans but also for all in the family.

Its main draw - the Vios Challenge one-make race - has opened the door of affordable entry into the local motorsports scene and has attracted celebrity drivers, and professional and budding racers.

UMW Toyota Motor president Ravindran K said that aside from giving the Toyota brand a sporty boost, the event had also created awareness of the exciting feel as well as the robust and dependable build of Toyota vehicles.

“Basically when we started Gazoo Racing at that time, we wanted to change the thinking among people that Toyota cars were for the matured,” he said at the sidelines of the Season 5’s finale of the Toyota Gazoo Racing festival and Vios Challenge racing series at Sepang International Circuit recently.

He said the company wanted to endear youths to its vehicle line-up.

“We wanted to engage the youths and we had a total shift from 2017 to now.

“We want people to feel that our cars can run not only on normal roads but also in a race,” he said, adding that even if Toyota cars had sporty performance, they were still comfortable for daily drives.

Ravindran said the event also gave the opportunity to young local engineers to tinker with race cars and improve their performance and dynamics.

“We have a small R&D section where we want our young engineers to localise the ‘feel’ of the car so we can give ideas to (Toyota operations in) Japan and Thailand,” he said.

“I think Gazoo Racing is the right platform for people to see where we are moving to and also as a platform for young engineers to join us and build better cars for the future,” he said.

 Vios GR-S.

Among the fruits of the labour is the Vios GR-S, which is the sportiest variant of the UMW Toyota Motor’s best-selling family-oriented Vios line-up.

Drawing experience from the Vios Challenge race cars, the Vios GR-S was locally developed to deliver higher levels of performance and handling compared with the regular Vios.

This was achieved while maintaining ride comfort and staying within the affordability of typical compact sedan buyers.

“We want to tell the market that Toyota products come with quality and reliability, and you will not make a mistake by buying Toyota,” he said.

Ravindran also said that the GR branding has taken off locally with the introduction of the GR Supra, GR Yaris, and GR Garage.

GR Garage is a shop-in-shop concept where selected authorised Toyota dealers would sell GR products such as high-performance GR cars, and exclusive GR accessories and merchandise.

Apart from the Vios GR-S, Ravindran said UMW Toyota Motor would be creating more GR variants soon.

“We want to create the image of sportiness but they are not weekend cars. Even on normal days, you can drive it and enjoy it. Exciting and fun,” he said.

“I think it is also good for young people to invest in our cars as they have good resale value,” he said.

Ravindran also said the UMW Toyota Motor would introduce more electric vehicles under both Toyota and Lexus brands in the near future.

“You can see many foreign brands introducing EVs in Malaysia.

“We are slightly slow (in the rollout) but we already have the technology,” he said, adding that the company was taking the introduction of the EV line-up introduction its stride to build customer confidence and avoid mistakes.


Nissan's X-Trail goes semi-autonomous

                TOKYO: Nissan is continuing its cautious journey into semi-autonomous driving with the launch of the new X-Trail. Hitting dealerships initially in Japan this weekend, it will do so as the company's first SUV to come with ProPILOT, the name Nissan is giving to its suite of technologies that enable its cars to manage acceleration, braking and steering within a single lane in highway driving conditions.

The system works at cruising speed when the road is clear but is equally competent in congested stop/start situations when traffic is backed up.

Nissan is committed to competing in terms of driver assistance and semi-autonomous features with the best that European and American manufacturers can offer with the cars it sells in those regions. However, it has chosen to debut and develop each new system initially in its domestic market, with the aim of launching a car that can offer self-driving assistance in urban, inner city conditions towards the end of the decade.

The reason for choosing Japan is because, according to company chairman Carlos Ghosn, its government, more than any other, understands and is behind the development of autonomous driving technology in terms of creating the right legislation and legal frameworks to make them a reality on real-world roads.

And there is also clearly a strong consumer appetite for this type of technology. In August Nissan launched its first car of any description with ProPILOT technology as an option — the Serena minivan. And since it went on sale, 60% of buyers have paid the premium to have the system installed.

As well as ProPILOT on the inside, the new X-Trail will come with a smarter external look. The front headlamps and V-Motion grille have been beefed up to add to the vehicle's rugged look, and new upward creases in the hood complete it.

Nissan has also upped the levels of active safety technology on offer. The car can now automatically help with steering input while changing lane if another vehicle is approaching, or, conversely, if the car starts to accidentally wander out of its designated lane markings.

The systems aiding low speed maneuverability and parking have also been improved. The car can monitor for obstacles, pedestrians and vehicles crossing behind the car and alert the driver, the park assist is easier to use and the car also gets an all-round monitoring system that uses cameras to give the driver a 360° view of the car's exterior on the central dashboard display.


Renault ousts CEO in post Ghosn-era reset

Delbos would be supported by two newly appointed deputies during the interim period.

PARIS: Renault’s board voted today to oust chief executive Thierry Bollore, as the French carmaker and Japanese partner Nissan seek a fresh start following the scandal-hit tenure of former alliance supremo Carlos Ghosn.

Relations between Renault, which named its finance director as temporary CEO, and Nissan, which picked a new CEO on Tuesday, have been strained since Ghosn’s arrest in Tokyo last year on allegations of financial misconduct, which he denies.

Bollore, who had long been Ghosn’s right-hand man, was promoted to help steady Renault this year, with Jean-Dominique Senard hired from Michelin as chairman.

But Bollore had had an uneasy relationship with Nissan, according to sources familiar with the matter, and Renault and the French state, its key shareholder, have repeatedly emphasised their wish to repair ties and reinforce the alliance.

Tensions between the partners were further inflamed this year, including during various spats over governance reforms, and after a failed deal under Senard’s watch to pair Renault up with Fiat Chrysler, which withdrew a merger offer.

Renault said today that financial director Clotilde Delbos would take over Bollore’s job on an interim basis.

“The board of directors decided to end the mandate of Mr Thierry Bollore as chief executive officer of Renault ... with immediate effect,” the company said in a statement.

 Bollore.‘Coup de force’

Bollore denounced his looming exit as a “coup” in a newspaper interview on Thursday evening, after news that Senard was poised to trigger his departure had emerged in the French press on Tuesday.

“The brutality and the totally unexpected character of what is happening are stupefying ... This coup de force is very worrying,” Bollore told Les Echos.

Renault also named two deputies to back up Delbos: top sales executive Olivier Murguet and a senior manufacturing and supply chain chief, Jose-Vicente de los Mozos.

The triumvirate has echoes of the new top team announced on Tuesday by Nissan.

Nissan picked Makoto Uchida, previously the head of its Chinese business, to replace Hiroto Saikawa, who stepped down as CEO in September after he admitted to being improperly overpaid.

Uchida is known for close ties to Renault, which could help ease tensions in the alliance.

Saikawa and Bollore barely spoke and were seen as clear irritants to the relationship between Nissan and Renault, French official and company sources told Reuters in June.

Before his ouster, Ghosn had been working on a plan for a full merger of Renault and Nissan, but had met resistance in Japan, which is concerned about French government influence in the alliance.

The French government, which holds a 15% stake in Renault, expressed its support for Senard on Thursday after Bollore hit out at the company, saying it trusted the chairman to submit the “necessary decisions” to the board.


Cabinet to hear about PLUS' future direction this month

                KUALA LUMPUR: The three ministries involved in discussions on the takeover of PLUS Malaysia Bhd will issue a joint memorandum to the Cabinet this month on the future path of the country's biggest highway operator.

Works Minister Baru Bian said the three ministries - Works, Finance and Economic Affairs - have met last week and will meet again soon, following which they will come up with the joint memorandum by mid-December.

"After the discussions, there will be a joint memorandum presented to the Cabinet, based on the three Ministries' decision.

"This will be done shortly; we are targeting the middle of this month if possible," said Baru in a press conference at the National Technical Profession Day celebration here on Tuesday (Dec 3).

On a question whether PLUS' major shareholders Khazanah Nasional Berhad and Employees Provident Fund (EPF) will be called in for the next meeting, Baru said that they will only be summoned if the need arises.

UEM Group Bhd, which is fully-owned by the government's sovereign wealth fund Khazanah, owns a 51% stake in PLUS, while the remaining 49% belongs to the EPF.

"For the time being, this meeting is only between the three ministries because we have received the offers already.

"For the Works Ministry, we have received the details and been briefed by respective representatives.

"At this moment, they (Khazanah and EPF) don't need to be in, if need be, we will call them in," he said.

He added that his Ministry has received five offers in total, with four bidders from the private sector and also one proposal from Khazanah itself.

"Khazanah is also proposing their own structure, so we are considering all of these proposals," he said.

It was previously reported of Baru saying that the four bidders were Widad Group Bhd, Maju Holdings Sdn Bhd, RRJ Capital and business tycoon Tan Sri Halim Saad.

On whether other proposals had been received by the Finance Ministry, Baru said that he only knew that it had also received a proposal from Khazanah.

"The Finance Ministry doesn't submit (the proposals) to us, they have received one from Khazanah but I don't know about others," he said.

While Khazanah has said it has no plans to divest PLUS, the government has shown willingness to consider private bids for PLUS.


Car showrooms brace for deluge

                PETALING JAYA: It will be a mad rush for car bookings over the next nine days as the sales and services tax (SST) exemption ends on June 30.

However, buyers who order their vehicles by June 30 will be allowed until March 31 next year to register their vehicles with the Road Transport Department (JPJ).

This is because the delivery of new vehicles has been delayed for longer than usual, taking up to a year for some, due to the global semiconductor chip shortage.

Amy Tan, a local car brand saleswoman in Kuala Lumpur, said she has already been receiving more enquiries via WhatsApp following the government’s announcement.

“People are excited to take advantage of these last few days to book their car and enjoy the SST exemption.

“The fact that they have until March 31 next year to register their vehicle has further sweetened the deal.

“Customers are willing to wait for months before getting their cars,” said Tan, adding that she received 18 enquiries yesterday, while several customers have made appointments to come to the showroom this week.

“The SST exemption can’t go on forever as the government needs to collect taxes after spending so much during the Covid-19 pandemic, but the initiative has been good to help revive the automotive industry.”

Sime Darby Motors retail and distribution managing director Jeffrey Gan believes that customers will take this opportunity to place orders.

His company distributes a range of models from renowned brands such as BMW, MINI, Hyundai, Ford, Jaguar, Land Rover and Volvo.

He added that the waiting period between making a booking and getting the car delivered to the buyer depends on the model, and it could range from three months to a year.

“The move by the government to extend the JPJ registration to March next year is a good one as it will help the automotive industry fulfil backlogged orders.

“Customers will have the opportunity to take delivery of their vehicles that were affected by the shortages in stocks,” said Gan.

READ MORE:Spike in demand expected
No more SST exemption, says Finance Ministry
Used car market facing shortage as well
Car buyers willing to wait it out to get wheels of their choice

Federation of Motor and Credit Companies Association of Malaysia president Datuk Tony Khor welcomed the decision by the government.

However, he urged the government to waive the June 30 cut-off time for car bookings and open up the SST to customers who register their cars within the nine-month period.

“In our proposal on May 31, we requested that the government extend the SST period for a year and we are very thankful that they gave us nine months.

“However, as the delay of delivery stretches, some customers will want to change their car models or are not able to get a certain model for imported cars.

“We hope the government will consider extending the tax exemption until March 2023 to let the market keep on moving,” he said.

Under the SST waiver, locally assembled cars priced below RM100,000 could enjoy savings of between RM2,000 and RM3,000, while cars costing between RM100,000 and RM200,000 could be cheaper by between RM4,000 and RM7,000.

Malaysian Automotive Association (MAA) president Datuk Aishah Ahmad said it is hoped that customers would hurry and place their orders before June ends so that they can still make use of the tax holiday.

“We have a backlog of orders and so the move to allow until the end of March 2023 to register new vehicles that were booked by June 30, 2022 will pacify those customers who have a long waiting time.

“It will also hinder order cancellations by customers. The waiting time depends and varies according to car model – some are three, six or even eight months.

“Both locally made and imported cars take a long time,” she said when contacted yesterday.

Aishah said the order bank is expected to slow down after June 30 before picking up again.

“It has always been like that when there is a change in policy,” she added.

On the MAA’s target of 600,000 units of vehicle sales for 2022, Aishah said this target can be achieved.


Petrol stations, eateries, convenience stores can open until midnight, says Hisham

                KUALA LUMPUR: Petrol stations, eateries and convenience stores will soon be allowed to operate from 6am to midnight, said Senior Minister (Security) Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Hussein.

This will apply to all states, regardless of which phase under the National Recovery Plan (NRP) they are in.

The exception would only be for localities placed under an enhanced movement control order.

Hishammuddin said this was one of the decisions agreed upon in the Covid-19 Quartet Ministers Meeting which also involves Health Minister Khairy Jamaluddin, Communications and Multimedia Minister Tan Sri Annuar Musa and Finance Minister Tengku Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz.

The proposal, said Hishammuddin, will be tabled to the Special Committee on Pandemic Management which is chaired by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob.

Ismail Sabri will announce more once the decision receives approval.


Round 1 of Toyota Gazoo Racing Festival Season 4 postponed

SHAH ALAM: With the extension of the movement control order to Feb 4 for Selangor and Federal Territory, UMW Toyota has decided to postpone Round 1 of Season 4 of the Toyota Vios Challenge scheduled from Jan 28-30 at the Sepang International Circuit.

"We regret that we are, at present, unable to advise on a firm date for Round 1. "Nevertheless, we are working with government authorities and monitoring our recovery from the increase in coronavirus cases."We certainly hope to be able to kick-off the season soon," said Akio Takeyama, UMW Toyota Motor Deputy Chairman and Gazoo Racing Malaysia’s chief motorsport officer.Takeyama also said the race would and must go on. "But not until we can together, successfully mitigate the threat of Covid-19 to ensure the safety of all racers, participating teams, officials, spectators and stakeholders," he said.

After three successful seasons, Season 4 of the Toyota Gazoo Racing Festival promises an even more exciting year ahead with the introduction of three individual racing series (Toyota Vios Challenge, Gazoo Racing Vios Sprint Cup and Gazoo Racing Enduro Cup) for a total of 11 races.

The growing participation of young racers in the series over the past three seasons has also led the company to establish a Gazoo Racing School and announced the introduction of a Rookie Class in the Toyota Vios Challenge for drivers between the ages of 14 and 20


Mercedes-Benz Unimog is off-roader of the year 2020

                STUTTGART: It comes as no surprise that the Mercedes-Benz Unimog multi-utility truck has been voted as off-roader of the year in the "Special Vehicles" category for the 16th time in a row, by readers of "Off Road" magazine.

The Unimog was well ahead in first place with 54.7 percent of readers' votes.

The extreme off-road Unimog is highly popular with globetrotters as a basic vehicle for travelling on and off metalled roads, and in its lower-weight version with only 7.49 tonnes GVW it can also be driven with a car driver's licence (grade 3).

"We are delighted with this award even if we could not accept it personally due to the present situation. This is again a show of confidence in our Unimog from the Off Road readership and we thank them immensely for this. Even after almost 75 years the Unimog is the ultimate off-road vehicle and presently holds the world record for a wheeled vehicle driving at altitude. Many of its ingenious features such as the three-point mounting system for the living area body make it an ideal vehicle for expeditions beyond tarmacked roads, in difficult terrain or for journeys to altitudes just below 7000 m on the world's highest active volcano, as it recently proved," said Dr Ralf Forcher, head of Unimog sales and marketing.


Suzuki Malaysia launches three CBU bikes

                SHAH ALAM: Suzuki Assembers Malaysia Sdn Bhd (SAM) launched three new CBU models from Japan here Tuesday in a simple ceremony at the City Karting Go-Kart Circuit.

Addressing the media, SAM managing director Toru Kobayashi said the company expects to sell a total of 300 units of either the V-Strom 650 ABS, V-Strom 650XT ABS as well as the Gladius ABS, all brought in from Japan.

Both the V-Strom 650 and V-Strom 650XT are sport adventure tourers, while the Gladius is a simple naked street bike.

 Suzuki Assembers Malaysia Sdn Bhd (SAM) has launched the Gladius ABS naked street bike, brought in from Japan.

Despite their different market segments, they all share several similiarities: the powerplant is a 90 degree V-twin that displaces 645cc.

The V-Strom 650 and the V-Strom 650XT comes with 320bit ECU which is mated to the Suzuki Dual Throttle vale system that should enhance low-to-mid rpm range torque, a linear throttle response, and lower emissions.

Both V-Strom also feature twin iridium spark plugs per cyclinder, a feature expected to improve combustion, throttle response and stable idle.

What would differentiate the V-Strom 650 from the 660XT is that the latter will feature the iconic "beak" that is located right under the headlight.

The Gladius, initially codenamed SFV650, will appeal to a broad range of riders as its seat height is only 785mm, while both front and rear suspensions are fully adjustable.

 Suzuki Assembers Malaysia Sdn Bhd (SAM) has launched the V-Strom 650XT ABS sport adventure tourer, brought in from Japan.

More good news comes in the form of gear indicators, which is useful in telling the difference between the 5th and the 6th.

The V-Strom 650 ABS, V-Strom 650XT ABS and Gladius ABS retails at RM41,900, RM43,900 and RM39,900 respectively.

More details are available from www.suzuki.com.my or by calling 04-3877 453.


Naza Kia Malaysia cracks top 5 in customer service

                KUALA LUMPUR: Naza Kia Malaysia has been ranked fourth place in the J.D. Power 2016 Malaysia Customer Service Index (CSI) study.

Now in its 14th year, the study measures overall service satisfaction among owners who took their vehicle to an authorised service centre by examining dealership performance in five factors which are service quality, service initiation, vehicle pick-up, service advisor and service facility.

The results of the study are based on responses from 3,257 new vehicle owners who bought their mass market brand cars (no premium brands) between February 2014 and May 2015, and took their cars for service to an authorised service centre between August 2015 and May 2016.

Naza Kia Malaysia currently has 46 service centres nationwide that serve over 6,000 customers per month.

These service centres scored a rating of ‘Among the Best’ in the study, the only brand in the top 10 to achieve that rating.

Among Naza Kia Malaysia’s initiatives for its aftersales service is the Family Like Care (FLC+) programme, which provides practical and valuable service experiences to Kia customers.

“Naza Kia Malaysia has gone from strength to strength in J.D. Power Malaysia’s Customer Service Index (CSI) Study, steadily climbing up the rankings in the Study and strengthening our position in customer satisfaction. This great achievement was made possible by our aggressive nationwide network expansion, highly trained service advisors and advanced systems put in place with support from Kia Motors Corp,” said Datuk Samson Anand George, group chief operating officer, automotive group, Naza Corp Holdings.


Xiaomi scooter to get Mercedes-AMG Petronas F1 Team edition

                BEIJING: Xiaomi will be launching a special edition of its Mi Electric Scooter Pro 2, designed in collaboration with the Mercedes-AMG Petronas F1 Team.

“We are extremely excited to bring the Mercedes F1 experience closer to our fans.  Like us, Xiaomi is committed to continuous innovation and we are delighted to work alongside them to bring to the market this new edition of their flagship Mi Electric Scooter Pro 2,” said Chris Church, vice president of brand partnerships APAC at Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula 1 team:

The new Mi Electric Scooter Pro 2  can travel up to 45km, at speeds up to 25km per hour.

It can effortlessly climb 20% incline slopes and accommodate a week’s worth of trips on a single charge.

A built-in LCD lets riders view and control a wide range of parameters - check the real-time speed, choose a riding mode, connect to Bluetooth, and even monitor headlight status.

The Mi Electric Scooter Pro 2 also features a 300W motor, double braking system, shock-absorbing pneumatic tyres, and an easy folding design.

It also sports front, rear, and side reflectors as well as an upgraded 2W headlight that illuminates up to 10 meters ahead, for improved visibility.

Xiaomi also debuted the Mi Electric Scooter 1S – a more streamlined model for casual commuters.

The Mi Electric Scooter 1S can travel up to 30km at speeds up to 25km per hour and offers an upgraded display, headlight, and other safety features.

The Mi Electric Scooter Pro 2 will become available from EUR 499 (RM2,430).

Meanwhile, the Mi Electric Scooter 1S can be pushed from EUR 399 (RM1,943).


New VW Passat launched, priced from RM160K to RM199K

Passat Highline.
SHAH ALAM: The new Volkswagen Passat has finally arrived.

Available in three trim lines, the refreshed Passat is priced at RM159,990 for Trendline, RM179,990 for Comfortline and RM198,990 for Highline.

The Highline comes with 2.0L TSI turbocharged engine and a 6-speed direct shift gearbox (DSG), delivering an impressive output of 218hp and 350Nm of torque from 1,500rpm to 4,400rpm.

 Passat Comfortline.READ MORE:
First drive of the new VW Passat
50 rugged VW Dune for Malaysia

Under the bonnet of the Trendline and Comfortline is the 1.8L TSI turbocharged engine that is paired with an improved 7-speed direct shift gearbox (DSG).

This combination provides an output of 178hp, and a torque of 250Nm between 1,250rpm and 5,000rpm.

One of the most innovative cars in its class, the Highline variant comes with Active Info Display system, a full digital instrument cluster in place of the traditional instrumentation that is interactive and fully customisable. It's an idea borrowed from the digital cluster of the Audi TT.

The Passat Trendline does not have powered front seats. It gets a 5-inch touchscreen colour display, multi-function leather steering wheel, push start ignition button, front and rear parking sensors, electric parking brake with auto hold, driver alert system (Rest Assist), automatic lights and wipers, three-zone temperature control air-conditioning, and a multi-collision brake system.

As for the Passat Comfortline, additional or upgraded kit includes LED headlamps and daytime running lights, a 6.5-inch touchscreen with Mirrorlink, semi-autonomous Park Assist, 12—way powered front seats with memory and massage function for driver, "Vienna" partial leather seats, keyless access or entry, cruise control with speed limiter, Easy Opening tailgate, paddle shifters and rear view camera.

Meanwhile, the top-grade Passat Highline gets extra or upgraded kit such as XDS or electronic differential lock, DCC (dynamic chassis control), powered roll-up sunscreen for rear window, wood decorative inserts, GPS Navigation and Lane Assist.

The all-new Passat comes with a 5-year manufacturer’s warranty, and is available in seven colours – Pure White, Deep Black, Reflex Silver, Indium Grey, Crimson Red, Black Oak Brown and Harvard Blue.

The new Passat also comes with a free five-year service and maintenance package for units booked by the end of of 2016.

Summary of key differences among variants Passat Trendline.Passat Trendline
- 5-inch touchscreen
- Start/stop push button
- 16-inch alloy wheels
- Driver Alert System
- Manual front seats
- 3-zone climate control
- Electric parking brake with auto hold function
- Front and rear PDC
- Automatic wiper and lights
- Electrically operated foldable wing mirrors

 Passat Comfortline.Passat Comfortline
(Additional equipment on top of Trendline)
- 6.5-inch touchscreen with Mirrorlink
- Full LED headlamps
- 17-inch alloy wheels
- Rear view camera
- Cruise control with speed limiter
- 12-way front seats with memory and massage feature for driver
- Keyless entry
- Paddle shifters
- Park Assist

 Passat Highline.Passat Highline
(Additional equipment on top of Comfortline)
- 6.5-inch touchscreen with MirrorLink and Navigation
- Full digital meter cluster
- 18-inch alloy wheels
- Cabin ambient lighting
- Lane Assist
- Electrically-operated roll-up of rear sunscreen
- Wood inserts
- Dynamic Chassis Control
- Electronic Differential Lock


Toyota pulls Suzuki firmly into its orbit through stake deal

                TOKYO: Toyota Motor Corp and Suzuki Motor Corp will take small equity stakes in each other, the Japanese car makers said today, as they seek to develop newer technologies and meet sweeping changes upending the global auto industry.

The tie-up is the latest example of automakers chasing scale to manage costs and boost development.

Car makers - especially smaller ones like Suzuki - are struggling to meet the breakneck growth of an industry transformed by the rise of electric vehicles (EVs), ride-hailing and autonomous driving.

Toyota will pay around 96 billion yen (RM3.8bil) for a 4.94% stake in Suzuki, while Suzuki will acquire in the market around 48 billion yen (RM1.9bil) worth of shares in Toyota. That is equivalent to 0.2% of Toyota’s shares as of today’s closing price, before the announcement.

The companies said in a joint statement they intended to overcome challenges facing the industry by “building and deepening cooperative relationships in new fields while continuing to be competitors”. They said they would strengthen technologies and products in which each of them specialise in.

The firms had said in 2016 they were exploring a partnership, citing technological challenges and the need to keep up with industry consolidation. Earlier this year they said they would produce EVs and compact cars for each other.

Automakers around the globe have been joining forces to slash development and manufacturing costs of new technology. Ford Motor Co (F.N) and Volkswagen AG (VOWG_p.DE) have said they will spend billions of dollars to jointly develop electric and self-driving vehicles.

Shares of Toyota and Suzuki closed little changed before the announcement.

Toyota’s orbit

The deal brings Suzuki firmly into Toyota’ orbit, alongside Daihatsu Motor Co, Hino Motors Ltd, Subaru Corp, Mazda Motor Corp and Yamaha Motor Co.

Rival Nissan Motor Co has an alliance with France’s Renault, although that has been shaken following the ouster of former Chairman Carlos Ghosn, and with Mitsubishi Motors Corp.

Honda Motor Co has a tie-up with General Motors Co.

Toyota has been looking to expand scale in next-generation technology and said this year it would offer free access to patents for EV motors and power control units.

It believes that move would help it cut by as much as half the outlays for expanded electric and hybrid vehicle components in the United States, China and Japan.

Supplying rivals would greatly expand the scale of production for hardware.

Suzuki, which specialises in affordable compact cars, had been struggling to keep pace with the huge costs of investing in research and development for automated driving functions.

Toyota said in June it aims to get half of its global sales from electrified vehicles by 2025, five years ahead of schedule, and will tap Chinese battery makers to meet the accelerated shift to electricity-powered cars.


2018 CarSifu Editors’ Choice Awards: Why cars won

                PETALING JAYA: Fresh from the excitement of last night's 2018 CarSifu Editors’ Choice Awards, it's time to tell why we chose the winning cars in each category.

The Volvo XC60 plug-in hybrid SUV was crowned "Car of the Year" and for good reason, which will be explained below.

A total of 54 vehicles were nominated across 32 categories in this year's awards event.

READ MORE:
2018 CarSifu Editors’ Choice Awards: Volvo XC60 T8 is Car of the Year
2018 CarSifu Editors’ Choice Awards in picturesCar of the YearVolvo XC60 T8 Twin Engine PHEV

The XC60 T8, which has also won the Best Mid-size Luxury SUV/Crossover and Best Hybrid Vehicle categories, is fully loaded with high-end materials, top safety technologies and a powerful, smooth powertrain.

It is a prime example of a premium car featuring a clean, attractive Scandinavian exterior and a thoughtfully designed and detailed, roomy interior.

The XC60 has high-end features like air suspension and Pilot Assist, which is Volvo’s advanced semi-autonomous driver assistance system as well as a plug-in hybrid system that provides up to 45km in all-electric mode, and needs only four hours to a fully charged lithium-ion battery.

There is plenty of muscle with a powerful 2.0-litre turbocharged and supercharged Drive-E 4-cylinder engine, and it also has all-wheel drive (AWD) system, which is reassuring when loss of traction occurs in challenging weather or terrain.

The XC60 is more than just about being competitively priced and equipped with nice features as well as the safety technologies that Volvo Cars is renowned for; it is also a classy SUV that is a joy to drive and deserves the top accolade.

Car of the Year first runner-upMazda CX-5 2.5 GLS

The CX-5 appeals with its minimal, elegant and sporty design and the finesse of its interior on top of the features and price makes it a desirable and classy SUV to own.

Car of the Year second runner-upPeugeot 3008

Featuring a stylish body and interior as well, the 3008 is a well-designed SUV that impresses with its good looks.

Despite being a front-wheel drive SUV, it comes with an advanced traction control system that allows it to tackle rough terrains like a true-blue 4X4.

1. Best Compact HatchPerodua Myvi 1.5 AV

Malaysia’s most popular compact hatch continues its dominance with its new sporty styling, a comprehensive safety feature set, affordability, comfort and fuel economy.

Safety features which were once only found in premium vehicles such as six airbags, Pre-collision Warning and Pre-collision Braking have filtered its way down to the masses, making it one of the safest compact cars to own.

2. Best Economy Car (1.3-litre and below)Kia Picanto

Although it is a Korean marque, it feels more like an European offering which makes it the best value for money with its robustness, build quality, good looks, safety and infotainment features.

3. Best Mid-size Performance HatchbackVolkswagen Golf R

Based on the standard Golf model, Volkswagen engineers have injected plenty of power and driving dynamics into the unassuming Golf and turned it into a high performance demon.

Besides delivering loads of speed and fun, the Golf R’s dual clutch transmission makes it easy not just for casual drivers but also for hard core enthusiasts who want lightning fast gear shifting.

4. Best Large-size CarKia Stinger 2.0 GT-Line

The fastback sedan with its lean muscle-car looks is a rear-wheel drive turbocharged, torquey offering which is shaking up the premium sedan segment with its compelling overall packaging and performance.

We are won over by its power, responsive and smooth drivetrain, spacious cabin, premium interior trim and upholstery, and driving refinement.

5. Best Mid-size Luxury Executive CarVolvo S90 T8 Twin Engine PHEV

The Swedish sense of space, luxury, design, safety and technology is refreshing and inspiring what with its twin-charged (supercharged and turbocharged) engine and an electric motor that powers the rear wheels which makes it effortless to drive and does not compromise on space and practicality either.

6. Best Mid-size Luxury Performance CarBMW M5

It’s the battle of the super sedans and the BMW M5 is the first to the finish line for its handling fluidity, all-wheel drive and punchy performance.

Its all-wheel drive can be set to rear-wheel drive only to continue the tail-happy tradition of M cars.

7. Best Large-size Luxury Executive CarMercedes-Benz S 450 L

Perception and status is, more often than not, more important than figures and features. And such is the case here as the newly facelifted S 450 L which remains the embodiment of the chauffeur-driven luxury executive car.

It also is a shining example of what the German automotive technology and luxury can produce.It’s also semi-autonomous now which adds to the driving pleasure and ease on highways.

8. Best Compact SUV/CrossoverToyota C-HR

The edgy, futuristic design of the C-HR both on the exterior and interior leaves quite an effect and combined with the impressive list of features and safety such as blind spot alert and rear-cross traffic alert makes this a winner.

9. Best Mid-size SUV/CrossoverMazda CX-5 2.5 GLS

The naturally aspirated CX-5 2.5 GLS variant offers power and value in this segment.

Its clean, minimal and elegant design and quality materials in the interior and impecabble fit and finish gives it an impression of being premium vehicle at a more competitive price.

10. Best Large-size SUV/CrossoverLexus RX350L

If you are going to make a big, bold statement then you would best do it with the RX350L and you can bring the family along too as this seven-seater is brimming with power and luxury with a silky smooth 3.5-litre V6 engine under the hood and a huge amount of space with the second and third row seats folded.

11. Best Large-size SUV/Crossover (Five-seater)Renault Koleos Signature

The French marque has delivered an SUV with an emphasis on stylish design, comfort, spaciousness and practicality for the urban scene.
It is smooth driving thanks to its 2.5-litre engine and has premium touches such as a panoramic sun roof and tanned leather upholstery among others.

Also included are a hands-free power tailgate, a new smartphone replication feature through the R-LINK 2 multimedia system that is compatible with both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto which is integrated into the vehicle’s capacitive touchscreen display.

12. Best Compact Luxury SUV/CrossoverMINI Cooper S E Countryman ALL4 PHEV

The Countryman leads the way with its snazzy design making it a very unique offering in the luxury compact crossover segment what with its small, turbo-charged displacement and being a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV), one could run on it up to 125kph on electricity alone. Simply shocking.

13. Best Mid-size Luxury SUV/CrossoverVolvo XC60 T8 Twin Engine PHEV

The Volvo XC60 T8 lays down the power with its twin engine plug-in hybrid powertrain while wrapping you in its minimally designed, natural surroundings of wood and leather in the interior while offering a plethora of safety features via its Intellisafe suite.

14. Best Pick-up TruckIsuzu D-Max X-Series

The D-Max X-Series brings aggression to the table with its front spoiler and rear skirting as well as racing stripes and red accents to a well-kitted, tough and frugal pick-up.

Added convenience equipment includes 360-degree Around View Monitor and built-in SmartTag reader,

15. Best Compact MPVProton Ertiga Plus Xtra

Proton’s six-seater offers exceptional value, handling, efficiency and practicality for a people mover that is robustly built and now features a seven-inch touchscreen infotainment system with DVD playback as well as Bluetooth smartphone connectivity and a USB port for all under RM65K.

16. Best Mid-size MPVNissan Serena S-Hybrid

The Nissan Serena 2.0-litre S-Hybrid priced at RM133,000 onwards provides best-in-class fuel economy of 14.2 km per litre.

Also, this roomy and innovatively designed seven-seater MPV with Captain Seats has top-notch features like Intelligent Around View Monitor, Hands-Free Dual Power Sliding Doors, seven USB Ports and a Dual Back Door design that can be opened easily even in tight parking spaces.

17. Best Large-size MPVHonda Odyssey 2.4

Besides having interior comforts expected of a premium MPV, the 2018 refreshed seven-seater Odyssey 2.4-litre EXV priced at close to RM260,000 has the premium Honda Sensing safety technologies that elevate the safety benchmark in its segment.

These safety technologies include Forward Collision Warning, Collision Mitigation Braking System, Lane Departure Warning, and Road Departure Mitigation. Other premium features here are Adaptive Cruise Control and Lane Keep Assist System.

18. Most Well-Specced Mid-size SUV/Crossover Peugeot 3008

Rolling in with grace and blended with a futuristic design, this SUV has gone the extra mile of combining necessities with added conveniences to give it that ‘must have’ premium feel about it.

From it’s five-star EuroNCAP crash rating to its 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, 8.0-inch touchscreen, a willing 1.6-litre turbocharged engine and that fashionably attired cabin, it makes the Peugeot 3008 a clear winner.

19. Most Well-Specced Large-size Car Mazda6 2.5 GLS

This Japanese brand has been well and truly revered by its peers for building one of the best handling cars on the market today.

For what it provides, from its Bose sound system to its head-up display and the inclusion of its safety as well as i-ActiveSense advanced safety technologies deems the Mazda6 2.5 GLS a thoroughbred that aims to excite.

20. Most Well-Specced Large-size SUV/Crossover Mazda CX-9

This Mazda CX-9 flagship three-row crossover SUV priced at around RM265,000 for the two-wheel drive variant, boasts seven seats, lots of storage space, and plenty of premium comfort and safety features including Smart City Brake Support, Lane Departure Warning, Lane Keep Assist and Blind Spot Monitoring.
It has outstanding driving dynamics and a smooth, strong turbocharged 2.5-litre powertrain as well as Mazda’s G-Vectoring Control technology which provides improved cornering control and better passenger comfort.

21. Most Well-Specced Mid-size Luxury Executive CarVolvo S90 T8 Twin Engine PHEV

The Volvo S90 T8 Twin Engine plug-in hybrid priced at RM368,888 impresses with renowned Volvo safety and driving assistance features like automatic braking functionality, collision avoidance and mitigation, a 360 degree surround view camera, blind spot information with cross traffic alert and lane keeping aid,

Run-off Road Protection with Road Edge Detection, Park Assist Pilot as well as the semi-autonomous drive mode called Pilot Assist with Steering Support which works at speeds up to 130kph. This luxury sedan also has a spacious 500-litre boot and all-wheel-drive capability.

22. Most Well-Specced Large-size Luxury Executive CarMercedes-Benz S 450 L

The new S-Class is infused with the latest automotive technology such as the Distronic Plus proximity control and Active Steering Assist which offers semi-autonomous driving experience.

It also features Multibeam LED headlights with Ultra Range high beam that is able to project up to 650 meters as well as the visually stimulating twin-display high resolution screens and touch sensitive control buttons among others.

23. Best Design of the YearLamborghini Urus

The five-seater Lamborghini Urus super-luxury SUV, priced just under RM1mil before duties, sports the powerful and muscular lines as well as the two-thirds body, one-third window ratio typical of Lamborghini sports cars.

The Urus has a distinctive single-line silhouette featuring a dynamic coupé-style fly line, accented by the frameless doors.

Its 3-metre long wheelbase and low seating position for occupants creates a spacious feel, while the ergonomic cabin is replete with luxury Italian craftsmanship featuring the finest leather, aluminium, carbon fibre and wood.

24. Best Business RideMercedes-Maybach S 560

Its truly a magical ride with the Maybach as it is able to adjust accordingly to surface undulations before driving over them thanks to the Magic Body Control curve inclination function and Road Surface Scan which scans for uneveness on the road ahead.

The Airmatic suspension is responsive and adjusts itself with information from Road Surface Scan to make bumps and potholes almost non-existent. Its rear legroom is beyond compare and its opulent interior trimming makes it a car fit for royalty.

25. Best Family Ride (RM100K-RM200K, 3-Row Seating) Mitsubishi Outlander 2.0 CKD

The seven-seater 2.0 litre Outlander CKD priced at RM137,888 offers a lot of value and has the benefit of 4 Wheel Drive which also incorporates an Eco mode for better fuel efficiency.

There’s a host of nice features like keyless entry, push start button,automatic headlamps and wipers, dual zone climate control, and a best-in-class cargo volume of 1,608 litres and also, Air Gesture Control for the 7-inch touchscreen unit. As for safety, it offers seven airbags, Active Stability Control, Hill Start Assist, Driving Video Recorder and a reverse camera.

26. Best Lifestyle Crossover (RM100K-RM200K)Subaru XV AWD

Compact and affordable from RM119,000, this all-wheel-driven cross-over is not only sure-footed when off road, but also very confidence inspiring when on tarmac.

Its combination of stylish design and powerful 2.0-litre engine adds to its rugged appeal.

27. Best Hybrid VehicleVolvo XC60 T8 Twin Engine PHEV

The 2.0-litre Volvo XC60 plug-in hybrid is competitively priced at RM343,888 for the flagship T8 Twin Engine Inscription Plus variant.
Featuring one of the longest all-electric drive range for hybrid cars in Malaysia, users can drive the XC60 T8 up to 45km without using a drop of petrol.
As conventional hybrid car design will have batteries placed in the trunk, the XC60 T8’s batteries are cleverly packed in the floor tunnel from the front to the rear axles, resulting in XC60 losing none of its trunk space.
With its semi-autonomous driving feature and IntelliSafe Assist, the XC60 T8 is also one of the safest cars on Malaysian roads.

28. Best Large-size Sporty Luxury CarMaserati Ghibli S

The upgraded 2018 Maserati Ghibli S is priced at RM718,800 and is a prime example of a luxury sports sedan that is engineered as a finely honed, involving machine for keen drivers.

The Ghibli S impresses as a performance-oriented car with a potent 3.0-litre Ferrari-built V6 twin turbo engine, and at the same time, charms with its plush cabin, finer qualities, and classy Italian craftsmanship.

29. Best Luxury Lifestyle Coupe/CabrioletMercedes-Benz S 560 Cabriolet

Considered to be one of the most stylish within the S-Class model range, the Cabriolet variant arrives with much glamour thanks to its understated sporty good looks, for a classy entrance.

The S 560 Cabriolet is literally a drop top rocket on wheels that is as detailed in comfort and fitment as the flagship executive S-Class limousine.

30. Best High Performance Sports CarPorsche 911 GT3

The Porsche 911 GT3, with its naturally aspirated and high-revving engine easily wills its driver not to release the accelerator.
Inside, the trimmings are Alcantara and accented by carbon fibre inserts for a blend of sporting luxury.

With a 0-100kph sprint of 3.4 seconds and a top speed of 318kph, miles of smiles are guaranteed in this car.

31. Best Large-size Luxury SUV/CrossoverRange Rover Velar

The Range Rover Velar P250 R-Dynamic priced at RM555,000 has an impressive host of luxury appointments as well as top-notch fit and finish, and deserves high praise for its use of premium materials.

Premium features include side steps that automatically slides out as soon as the door is opened, 10-way powered seats with driver memory, a Meridian Surround Sound system with 17 speakers and subwoofer, a surround camera system and a Touch Pro Duo infotainment system which features two 10-inch high-definition touchscreens integrated seamlessly behind secret-until-lit surfaces.

The steering feel is responsive and communicative, and with four-wheel drive and a Terrain Response system, the Velar is also a quick vehicle, powered by a 2.0-litre Ingenium petrol engine with twin-scroll turbocharger that develops 250PS.


VW and BP could expand e-car charging alliance to other regions

                DUESSELDORF: Europe's top carmaker Volkswagen and oil major BP plan to deepen their electric charging partnership and could expand it to other regions and technologies, their CEOs said.

The comments reflect increasing efforts by carmakers and energy companies, including utilities and oil firms, to expand charging infrastructure for electric vehicles and tackle the issue of range anxiety - or concern about adequate energy storage - that's still weighing on demand.

To tackle the problem, both groups plan to jointly install 8,000 fast-charging spots across Europe by 2024 for battery-powered vehicles in a deal that will see BP putting up mobile chargers produced by VW at its network of petrol stations. read more

The mobile fast-chargers will have a capacity of around 150 kilowatts (kW), which can deliver a meaningful charge for a range of around 160km in just over 10 minutes, making it comparable with the time it takes to refuel.

"There are so many more areas where we are complementary," Volkswagen CEO Herbert Diess told reporters on the sidelines of an event in Duesseldorf on Thursday, unveiling the first electric vehicle charging stations of their joint cooperation.

"BP has a very strong network in many places of the world. So it means what we do here we can do in other places as well," Diess said, adding BP could also be a strong partner in the area of electric truck charging.

The network will be open to other brands, BP CEO Bernard Looney said, a key differentiator to Tesla's network of superchargers, which has started to open up to rivals but still remains only accessible to Tesla drivers in numerous markets.

"Five hundred and fifty million people live within 20 minutes of a BP site," Looney said, adding this provided the scale needed to roll out electric chargers on a bigger level.

"The thing that I love about partnerships: we can do coolants together, we can do energy together, electrification, hydrogen ... all these things," he said. "We will do things in 3-4 years together that we didn't even imagine existed today."

Volkswagen also has European charging cooperations with Italy's Enel and Spain's Iberdrola, with Diess saying there would soon be an update on the latter alliance.


Toyota CEO says his successor must have ‘unshakeable conviction’

                TOKYO: Toyota Motor Corp is working to foster candidates capable of eventually helming the top job, president and chief executive officer Akio Toyoda told shareholders at an annual meeting.

The world’s No. 1 carmaker is taking steps to find and develop potential successors, Toyoda, 66, said in response to a shareholder’s question at corporate headquarters today.

Anyone following in his footsteps must have "unshakable conviction on why Toyota exists” and a firm understanding of the company’s philosophy, Toyoda said, adding that his goal will be to "rejuvenate” management with the move.

The brief question-and-answer moment shines light on a topic that’s been top of mind for some Toyota investors and analysts over the past few years: who’s in line to replace the automaker’s current president who, over the past 13 years, has captained its rise to record profit and pole position as Japan’s most valuable company.

Toyoda, grandson of the founder, is the second-longest tenured head of a major automotive company, according to data compiled by Bloomberg.

He took the reins at Toyota in 2009, shortly after Elon Musk assumed his post at Tesla Inc.

Steps in March to create a new "executive vice president” role has fuelled mild speculation on the company’s succession plans, and whether the three men selected for the position - chief financial officer Kenta Kon, chief technology officer Masahiko Maeda and chief human resources officer Masanori Kuwata - are being groomed as candidates for the top job.

Koji Kobayashi, an operating officer who spoke at today’s shareholders meeting, declined to say who may be in the succession pipeline.

Instead, he took a few minutes to reflect on Toyoda’s tenure, saying that the CEO helmed the company through "crises, one after another.”

While others may have been overwhelmed, Toyoda was "energised,” he said.

Now, he’s starting to "plant seeds for the future, with three young executive vice presidents and other executives,” Kobayashi added.

In terms of age, Toyoda is still on the younger side, compared with when prior Toyota presidents stepped aside.

Katsuaki Watanabe was 67 when he relinquished the role in 2009, while Fujio Cho was 68.

"I would wish to pass on the baton to a successor as soon as it makes sense,” Toyoda said in an interview published in an in-house publication in 2020.

That decision will take some time to think over, Toyoda said.

With regard to a successor, "they have to exceed me. It’s a tough challenge, but it’s what’s best for our stakeholders.”

What’s clear is any successor will take on an enormous job: leading the 84-year-old motor company through the global auto industry’s swift and sometimes turbulent shift to autonomous, electric vehicles.

When Toyoda took over as president, the automaker was just on the edge of a recall that would impact millions of vehicles.

The company posted a record loss of 392 billion yen (RM12.8bil).

In the years since, Toyota’s profits steadily recovered and then ballooned.

That was despite periods of intense disruption ranging from an earthquake and tsunami that upended Japan’s automobile production in 2011, to the Covid-19 pandemic.

Since Toyoda took over in June 2009, Toyota shares have almost tripled, giving the company a valuation of almost 34 trillion yen (RM1.1tril).

Even through the most recent period of disruption, Toyota kept its supply chains relatively steady, beating Germany’s Volkswagen AG in 2020 and 2021 to claim the title of the world’s top-selling automaker.

Analysts, on average, are projecting that Toyota will post a record operating profit of 3.24 trillion yen for the fiscal year through March, up more than 40% from before the Toyoda era.

Toyoda also led the company’s forays into new arenas, forging partnerships with Panasonic Holdings Corp. and Softbank Group Corp. in batteries and self-driving cars.

He also pushed Toyota’s investment in Tesla and committed 8 trillion yen worth of spending on its fleet of electrified vehicles.

Toyoda’s son, Daisuke Toyoda, 34, is often flagged as next in line after his father’s immediate successor.

He’s currently a senior vice president at Woven Planet Holdings, Toyota’s advanced technology arm led by roboticist James Kuffner.

Though the wish is for Toyoda to stay on forever, "there’s a limit,” Kobayashi said.

The president has been working on building a management structure, "and whoever becomes the next president, I’m sure the company will be in good shape,” he said.


Twice round the world: Raikkonen breaks long distance F1 record

Raikkonen had achieved a statistical landmark that was the equivalent of driving two laps of the world, round the equator. — AFP
BARCELONA: Kimi Raikkonen on Sunday became the driver to have raced the greatest distance in Formula One history when he completed his 37th lap of the 66-lap Spanish Grand Prix won by Lewis Hamilton for Mercedes.

Raikkonen, in an Alfa Romeo, finished 14th, one lap down, but had achieved a statistical landmark that was the equivalent of driving two laps of the world, round the equator.

He exceeded the previous record of 83,846km, according to his team, when he finished lap 37.
The previous record-holder was his former Ferrari team-mate Fernando Alonso.

Last Sunday, during the 70th Anniversary Grand Prix at Silverstone, Raikkonen became the driver to have completed the most laps with 16,845 in his career, passing the previous record held by seven-time champion Michael Schumacher.

Raikkonen, 40, won the world title with Ferrari in 2007 and on Saturday secured his best start of the season by qualifying 14th on the grid for Alfa Romeo.

The famously taciturn Finn was not impressed, however, and said he could have done better with another run on softer tyres.

And after the race, showing no interest in his statistical achievement, he said: "We were a bit faster than last week, but I was hoping for better. We kept trying and I think we're going in the right direction."


Land Rover Defender gets V8 muscle from US tuner

                LOS ANGELES: This Land Rover Defender 110 - an icon of British off-roading capability and ruggedness, has done away with its diesel-burning ways instead now has a high-powered American muscle for its heart.

American Land Rover tuner specialist, ECD Automotive Design has managed to fit a massive 6.2-litre LS3 V8 engine from a Corvette under the hood of this Defender that's dressed in British Racing Green.

A definite 565hp "sleeper" in this respect, but no one would have expected refinement to be included in this package.

The tuning company has also provided this Defender with a custom air suspension system and 18-inch wheels wrapped by all-terrain tyres from BF Goodrich.

The cabin's upholstery sports beige leather Recaro seats and an Evander wood rim steering wheel and a cargo area that's been customised with a wine and glass caddy among others.

There's no mention on pricing for this particular Defender yet, but they also do provide a "Greener" option that allows the Defender to get its propulsion from an electric motor sourced from Tesla instead.

But is this the first of its kind? No. Having an LS3 V8 engine under the hood of a Defender has been done before by Himalaya - another tuner that's based in South Carolina - also in the US.

Himalaya used a Defender 110 Crew Cab as the base for its blacked-out Spectre and fitted it with a lifted suspension system, 37-inch offroad tyres, Brembo brakes, Fox Racing shocks, a Warn winch, front and rear skid plates, front bull-bar and a custom spare wheel case.

Inside, the cabin features Alcantara headliner, leather upholstery and an Alpine x JL Audio sound system.

Next, they decided to strap on a Whipple supercharger to up the LS3's 525hp standard output to new heights and the entire package is going for somewhere in the vicinity of a six-figure asking-price that's in US Dollars.


Volkswagen's race with Tesla will be tight, says Diess

                BERLIN: Tesla works at twice the industry pace in many processes but still needs to ramp up highly complex factories and find qualified workers to win the electric vehicle race, Volkswagen's chief executive said today.

The US carmaker, posing a challenge to German electric vehicle production with its new plant near Berlin, had the advantage of a blank slate start and a small number of models, Diess said, making it easier to scale.

But his own company Volkswagen was also speeding up, Diess said.

"There's a lot coming from our side too... a lot of momentum. It will certainly be tight in coming years," Diess said, speaking at a car industry conference in Bochum, Germany.


Aeristech's e-superchargers wins Queen's Award

                LONDON: British electric motor specialist Aeristech has been awarded a Queen’s Award for Enterprise in Innovation in recognition of its work to develop a series of increasingly advanced, high-speed electric motors to power e-superchargers and hydrogen fuel cell air-side compressors.

Based in Leamington Spa, where it recently relocated to its new headquarters, the company has a growing portfolio of contracts with vehicle manufacturers and Tier 1 suppliers bringing the benefits of its technology to market.

Aeristech’s unique technology allows higher performance from the company’s smaller, more efficient-running motors to help its customers to achieve higher performance from their own products and playing a significant role in the advancement of technologies to reduce energy consumption and vehicle emissions.

“Over the past few years Aeristech has developed and commercialised what we believe to be the most advanced, oil-free, high-speed electric motor systems available, and it is very gratifying to have this recognised by receiving a Queen’s Award for Enterprise,” said Aeristech CEO Richard Wall.

He added that their clients in the automotive industry, as well as other sectors such as aviation, stationary power and industrial, are adopting their technology as part of their strategy to reduce emissions.

The Queen’s Awards for Enterprise recognised Aeristech’s progress in delivering their most ambitious set of motor systems yet, with some motors in excess of 20kW.
The company's technology splits the control system for torque and speed, enabling smaller, more efficient running motor controllers which are coupled to dedicated motor designs.

“By reducing controller switching loads and running temperatures in combination with advanced motor design, we can run our motors faster for far longer without fear of over-heating. This is ideal for electric supercharging and hydrogen fuel cell compressor applications, and we are working with a wide cross-section of the automotive industry to adopt our designs,” said Wall.

The Queen’s Awards for Enterprise were established 54 years ago as the most prestigious business awards in the UK and celebrate the success of exciting and innovative businesses which are leading the way with pioneering products or services.