Proton Saga Anniversary Edition launched at RM39,300

                SHAH ALAM: Proton today launched a 35th anniversary Saga that's limited to just 1,100 examples.

Based on the 1.3-litre Premium AT variant, the Saga Anniversary Edition is priced at RM39,300 (on-the-road without insurance or sales tax) -  without the sales tax rebate, the car would cost an additional RM500.

The first Saga was launched on July 9, 1985.

The Saga Anniversary Edition comes in black paint that's accented by yellow external wing mirrors.

The yellow colour is also found on the strips of the front upper grille garnish and rear bumper garnish.

Sporty gunmetal grey alloy wheels differentiate this Saga from the regular ones.

Inside the cabin, the yellow stripes are applied on the air conditioning vents, centre console as well as the pair of rings that make up the rev-counter and speedometer in the instrument cluster (with staging).

Also included is an N95 cabin filter that filters out 95% of particles down to 0.3 microns and 98% of PM2.5 dust particles, which includes smoke particulates, dust, bacteria and other airborne pollutants.

Existing Saga owners can buy the filter for RM50.15 but after Oct 9, the price increases to RM59.

The Saga gets an optional accessories package that's compatible with all 2019 Saga model variants.

This includes a front lip, side skirts, door visors, boot tray and insulation for the front hood and rear trunk lid.

The package is priced at RM2,035 but if bought separately, it would cost RM815 more at RM2,350.

The Saga Anniversary Edition is currently available at all Proton showrooms nationwide as well as online on the company's website.

“The past 35 years have been a testament to Proton’s dedication towards producing products the ‘rakyat’ desire. For the decades to come, we are focused on delivering products, services and experiences of even higher quality,” said Proton deputy CEO Datuk Radzaif Mohamed.

In June, Proton revealed that it managed to sell 4,447 units of the A-segment Saga alone and over 4,150,035 units have been produced since it was first launched 35 years ago.


Coronavirus could kill off the auto show, once and for all

File pic. In a social media-obsessed environment, the pillars sustaining the need for an auto show is already starting to look shaky. — Relaxnews
NEW YORK: On Tuesday, Feb 25, Bentley executives were mobilising to debut the US$2 million Bacalar at the Geneva Motor Show, announcing with the one-of-12 grand tourer their plan to double down on custom cars as the figurehead of the company’s business model.

By Friday, the show was cancelled after fears of the coronavirus led Swiss officials to ban gatherings of more than 1,000 people. It was the first time the show had been cancelled since World War II.

So, the 100-year-old car company improvised. Staffers took the journalists they had planned to host at the show on a seven-car driving tour instead.

The route started in London, skipped through whisky tastings in Scotland, stopped by an abandoned airport runway for 257kph-plus petal-to-the-metal runs, and ended with an intimate dinner and Bacalar debut at brand headquarters back in Crewe, England. The rest of the world watched the unveiling via live video feed.

"It was one of the best weekends and lessons in versatility I’ve seen in recent time,” says communications head Erin Bronner, who spearheaded the brand’s efforts to salvage the debut of Bentley’s new cars.

Instead of reinforcing the notion that automotive brands must be present at the customary trade events, the coronavirus looks to be proving the opposite.

"What has happened with cancelling the Geneva show has happened against the backdrop of automakers already looking at the alternative platforms for vehicle introductions,” says Stephanie Brinley, the principal automotive analyst for IHS Markit, an automotive research firm.

"This gave them an opportunity to test some things out they might not have done this particular year.”

Gem in the crown

Geneva was supposed to be immune. Held annually in March since 1905, the show is the most glamorous of the world’s automotive trade shows, the place where such iconic cars as the Ferrari 250 California Spider, Porsche 904, Lamborghini Diablo, and Jaguar E-Type were first seen.

This year, McLaren, Bugatti, and Aston Martin-as well as the European brands Audi, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz-had reserved their glitziest debuts for the event. Historically, thousands of journalists from all corners of the globe descend on Geneva’s Palexpo convention center for three days of news conferences, executive roundtables, and corporate dinners.

But in a social media-obsessed environment, the pillars sustaining the need for an auto show had already started to wobble.

 The Palexpo convention centre is the venue for the Geneva Motor Show.

Endless press briefings at automotive trade shows were once deemed exclusive but now are streamed simultaneously worldwide. Near-meaningless product embargoes are often broken by influencers, while trained journalists play by the rules.

It’s similar to what’s happened in the fashion industry, where live video streams and the impact of influencers demanding-and being granted-front-row billing at the expense of magazine editors and news journalists has nearly erased the benefit to many brands of holding live runway shows at all.

Executives at luxury car brands know that their primary buyers are more likely to frequent verdant putting greens and cocktail-saturated soirées rather than florescent-light drenched convention centers swarming with trade press.

Jaguar Land Rover, Nissan, Ford, and others had already planned to skip Geneva altogether, even before the virus became front-page news.

Ferrari, Lamborghini, Bugatti, and their upper-echelon ilk have been skipping the lesser auto shows for years. Audi, Bentley, and Daimler said they supported the decision to cancel in Geneva.

Last year, organisers pushed Detroit’s auto show from its customary January date to June, hoping the warmer weather would prove more alluring to the vendors, journalists, and brands that justify its existence. Last week, organisers cancelled the Frankfurt auto Show. The Beijing auto show has been postponed indefinitely, due to the Covid-19 outbreak.

"It is a turning point,” says Mike Dean, the head of the European automotive equity research team at Bloomberg Intelligence. "Maybe it just pushes us along a bit, towards where we are already headed. We’ll wait and see.”

Bentley is reconsidering its entire commitment.

The cost of the quickly put together drive "was a fraction” of what the brand would typically have spent at an auto show, says one Bentley spokesman, and the debuts drew stellar reviews nonetheless. Brands can spend as much as US$20 million on the cost of building a booth, hosting media, transporting cars, housing staff, and the usual marketing.

But it only costs a few million dollars to host VIPs, clients, and friends of the brand at exclusive events-and returns a higher sell-through rate.

"It’s still very early to tell the overall (return on investment) and impact,” says the Bentley spokesman. "But coverage of our newest debuts, including the Bentley Mulliner Bacalar and the Mulliner GT Convertible, have received great praise.”

The same goes for McLaren, which debuted its track-happy, bone-thin 765LT coupe via live video feed from company headquarters in Woking, England.

The car was turned around halfway to Geneva and sent back to Woking to be unveiled outside, on the main boulevard in front of McLaren’s factory.

"We made the best of a difficult situation,” says Roger Ormisher, McLaren vice president of communications. "But no decisions about future participation in motor shows have been made at this stage.”

Onward and upward

Elsewhere, the show goes on.

Many automakers posted their Geneva debuts on social media and other digital platforms. The Aston Martin V12 Speedster, BMW i4 Concept, Bugatti Chiron Pur Sport, and Hispano-Suiza Carmen Boulogne all saw the light of day despite the cancellation.

Koenigsegg gave Top Gear a YouTube tour of its Gemera debut inside the empty Geneva convention centre while workers deconstructed half-built stands and lighting structures.

Both the prestigious Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance on March 7 in Florida and jewel-of-the-car-year Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance in August in Carmel, Calif., will continue as planned, organisers say. So do those organising the New York International auto Show slated to start on April 7 in midtown Manhattan.

"We are in communication with state and local officials and the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center,” NYIAS officials said in a written statement. "The Javits Center and the auto Show are taking precautionary measures inside the venue while the state and local agencies are taking steps to limit the spread of respiratory viruses.”

As of now, the debuts of more than 50 new vehicles remain scheduled. Bugatti has said it will show a new car that was intended for Geneva. Ford will debut its much-anticipated new modern Bronco.

Back in Geneva, event organisers have found a temporary solution: A virtual press day of their own to show off the new Porsche Turbo S, Koenigsegg Gemara, and Automobili Pininfarina Battista Anniversario up close, for free, and on repeat. And you won’t even have to fight the crowds.


VW's China partners bristle as carmaker lavishes love on new venture

Potential customers checking a Volkswagen ID.4 X electric vehicle displayed inside an ID. Store X showroom of SAIC Volkswagen in Chengdu in January. — Reuters
BEIJING: Volkswagen is in talks to tighten its grip on a majority-owned joint venture in China, sparking tensions with the German automaker's other Chinese partners who fear they could be sidelined, sources familiar with the matter said.

The world's second-biggest carmaker secured a controlling 75% stake in a venture with China's JAC in 2020 after Beijing relaxed rules that had previously barred foreign firms from owning majority stakes in local auto companies.

Volkswagen, which took control of one of JAC's plants in the eastern city of Hefei last year, is now in talks to buy another as part of a big expansion in electric vehicles (EV), three sources with knowledge of the matter said.

That has rattled Volkswagen's other Chinese partners, SAIC Motor and FAW, which want the German group to commit more models to their own ventures, said sources at Volkswagen, the Chinese firms and joint ventures.

The stakes are high. Boosting its majority-owned business would mean Volkswagen wouldn't have to share so much profit with state-run partners and can accelerate its EV push without having so many partner negotiations in the world's biggest car market.

But the German group can't afford a false step, as it now makes about 40% of sales and half of its profits in China - mostly through its ventures with SAIC and FAW.

In a sign of its ambitions, Volkswagen is planning to relocate hundreds of Beijing-based staff to Hefei, according to Volkswagen sources and a memo seen by Reuters. Beer gardens are being set up around the Hefei plant to create a German atmosphere for its employees.

JAC's chairman Xiang Xingchu said last year it expected the joint venture to make 200,000-250,000 vehicles in 2025 and 350,000-400,000 in 2029.

Volkswagen said the venture's portfolio would not directly compete with those of its other joint businesses in China, but would rather be complementary.

"The investment is a long-term strategic decision as we expect the total NEV (new energy vehicle) market in China to grow to around 30 million NEVs by 2030," it said. That would be up from around 1.4 million NEVs last year.

FAW, JAC and SAIC declined to comment. Volkswagen has a 50-50 venture with SAIC, and holds 40% of its venture with FAW.

Separately, Volkswagen is also considering producing light duty trucks in China, possibly at a revamped JAC truck plant, two of the sources said.

The sources cautioned Volkswagen has not made decisions on these plans and they are subject to change. The German group declined to comment.

Selling its Hefei plant would leave JAC only making passenger cars under the Sihao marque in nearby Anqing city, one of the sources said.

The Chinese company, whose parent group is owned by Volkswagen and local government, still makes trucks and vans under its own brand.

Tensions

Volkswagen is the most successful foreign automaker in China, selling around 3.85 million vehicles there last year despite the pandemic. That compares with General Motors' 2.9 million vehicles and Toyota's 1.8 million.

"It's fair to say that without VW, the Chinese autos industry wouldn't exist as we know it today and vice versa," Bernstein analysts said in a recent a research note.

"No global OEM (original equipment manufacturer) is bigger in China and has leveraged the benefits more than VW. China was (and remains) the source of about 50% of VW's earnings and cash flows."

In its early years, Shanghai-based SAIC-Volkswagen helped Volkswagen break into the market with local production of the Santana sedan in 1985.

FAW-Volkswagen, meanwhile, made Audi the first locally-produced premium car model in China, grabbing orders from the government and leading its competition with BMW and Daimler.

At their height, Santana and FAW-Volkswagen's Jetta and Citroen Fukang - compact sedans together known as the "old three" - made up a majority of China's car market in the 1990s.

SAIC-Volkswagen and FAW-Volkswagen are now seeking assurances their businesses won't suffer as Volkswagen looks to step up investment in Hefei, five of the sources said.

"We laid good ground for Volkswagen in China so it cannot abandon us in the future," one senior FAW source said.

Tensions between the partners are not new.

Volkswagen CEO Herbert Diess riled SAIC in 2019 when he told the media he planned to increase stakes in Chinese ventures.

SAIC responded that any major decision related to the joint venture required discussions by both partners and it was "disappointed" Volkswagen would announce such an important issue without coordinating with it.

The Chinese firms frequently ask for more models to boost their ventures, and negotiations have not always been smooth.

SAIC said publicly in both 2018 and 2019 that its MEB factory would make electric Audi cars. However, Volkswagen was then not fully on board with the plan, sources said, although there have been signs of progress recently.

A filing by China's industry ministry last month showed an electric Audi SUV, similar in size to Volkswagen's ID.6 7-seat electric model, was pending regulatory approval.

FAW, meanwhile, has pressed Volkswagen for a standalone electric venture in which Audi would hold a 75% stake and FAW 25%. However, three of the sources said the project was struggling to pass Volkswagen's internal feasibility review.

"Two old partners keep asking for more models that we cannot satisfy. This is torturing," one senior Volkswagen executive said. Volkswagen now has over 50 models in China. General Motors has 60, including many mini-van models, and Toyota around 20.


Johor Causeway to open 18 hours daily from Nov 29 to ease cross-border cargo transport

                PETALING JAYA: Representatives from the country's logistics and transport operators have met with the Transport Ministry to sort out congestion issues during cargo movement to Singapore.

In a Facebook post today, Transport Minister Datuk Seri Dr Wee Ka Siong said he met online with representatives of operators, including the Pan Malaysian Lorry Owners, the Association of Malaysian Hauliers, and the Malaysia Tipper Lorry Operators’ Association.

"I was glad to share with them the good news, which is that both Malaysia and Singapore have agreed to extend the operation hours of Johor Causeway from 12 hours to 18 hours, or from 7am to 1am, after discussions with our Singapore counterparts.

"The new operating hours will be enforced after both Malaysian and Singaporean Prime Ministers launch the VTL-Land on the Causeway on Nov 29.

"Since April 2020, the operating hours have been reduced to 12 hours (7am to 7pm) following the border closure due to the pandemic," said Dr Wee, who added that he understood the difficulties faced by industry players over the severe congestion when lorry drivers and logistics operators need to transport essential products from Malaysia to Singapore on a daily basis.

"It is hoped that this initiative will ease the movement of lorries and trailers, and help the recovery of the country’s economic activities, especially the transportation sector, that has been affected by the Covid-19 pandemic," he said.


Naza launches Merdeka sale campaign

                KUALA LUMPUR: Naza Motor Trading, a subsidiary of the Naza Group and Malaysia’s largest vehicle importer, has kicked off the "Merdeka Beli & Menang" campaign.

From now until Sept 16, each successful purchase of a vehicle from Naza Automall qualifies as an entry to win attractive prizes of electronics totalling up to RM45,000 including Huawei smartphones, 55-inch Smart TVs and Apple iPads.

As a bonus, customers who buy vehicles during the campaign can indulge in the best deals in town with 50% savings on SST.

Also included are fast loan approvals, free warranty on top-grade automobiles from luxury multi-purpose vehicles (MPVs) to sedans from brands such as Porsche, Mercedes-Benz, Lexus, Toyota and MINI among others.

Operating times are from 9am to 6pm (Mondays to Fridays) and 10am to 6pm (weekends and public holidays).

For more information, log on to Naza Automall's social media channels (Instagram: @nazaautomall, Facebook: @nazaautomall.my).


Canada's Suncor sees electric vehicles disrupting oil demand as much as Covid-19

Suncor Energy facility in Sherwood Park, Alberta. — Reuters

TORONTO: The shift to electric vehicles and other low-carbon technologies could disrupt crude oil demand on a similar scale to the coronavirus pandemic, Suncor Energy Inc’s chief executive said on Monday.

The comments are a stark prediction in an industry that frequently downplays the impact of electrification and points to forecasts of rising global oil demand to justify new investment and pipeline expansions.

Canada is the world’s fourth-largest oil producer and the sector accounts for 10.6% of the country’s gross domestic product.

“While Canadian oil and gas will remain a significant part of the global energy mix for some time, we have to take advantage of new opportunities that offer attractive growth prospects,” Suncor CEO Mark Little said in an opinion article for Canada’s Corporate Knights magazine.

“The temporary economic lockdown triggered by the 2020 pandemic is giving us a glimpse into a not-too-distant future where the transformation of our energy system could disrupt demand on a similar scale.”

Economic shutdowns to limit the outbreak’s spread ground travel to a halt, cutting fuel demand by roughly 30% worldwide. Suncor, Canada’s No. 2 oil producer, curtailed output and cut its dividend by more than half.

The sector also faces mounting pressure from a growing number of investors who screen companies based on environmental, social and governance guidelines.

Norway’s US$1 trillion wealth fund in May blacklisted Suncor and other large oil sands producers for producing excessive greenhouse gas emissions.

Little called for federal investment to help the industry diversify into hydrogen, renewable jet fuel and carbon fibre.

Bitumen is rich in asphaltenes, the feedstock for carbon fibre, used for producing lighter vehicles including electric vehicles, he said.

“If we can figure out how to do this affordably at scale, it has the potential to quadruple the revenue from Alberta’s current bitumen output,” he wrote.


Infiniti to make 5 new models in China

The new QX50.
HONG KONG: Infiniti, the luxury arm of Nissan, has announced plans to build five new models in mainland China, reaffirming the importance the company places on the Chinese market as a big hope for future growth.

And as China is also probably the hottest market as far as electric cars are concerned, the luxury brand has also promised all its new vehicles from 2021 onwards will be electric and e-POWER driven.

Although the Chinese vehicle market, and the Chinese economy in general, hasn't been growing as quickly as predicted over the last year or two, the potential for foreign automakers to grow their businesses there is still pretty phenomenal.

 The Q Inspiration concept.

The Chinese government has recently announced plans to relax some of the rules regarding foreign companies manufacturing and selling in the country, so the race is on once again for vehicle manufacturers to take advantage.

If there are two things the Chinese consumers seem to love it's luxury and electrified vehicles, so Infiniti's plans appear to either be perfect timing or a calculated plan to make the most of the opportunity.

A locally produced all-new QX50 midsize luxury crossover will be the first of five new vehicles the brand intends to start manufacturing and selling in China over the next five years. And as for the electrification plans, the Infiniti Q Inspiration concept car is the showcase of the company's future as far as electrification, technology and design are concerned.

Infiniti's Chairman and Global President, Roland Krueger, says of the plans: "Over the next five years Infiniti is planning to localize five new vehicles in China, tripling our sales here in our fastest growth market, globally. As part of our roadmap to electrify our portfolio, we anticipate that by 2025, more than 50 percent of new Infiniti vehicles sold globally and in China will be electrified."

The all-new Infiniti QX50 will make its Asia debut at the upcoming Beijing Motor Show, and those built in China will be produced exclusively for the Chinese market.

The QX50 will also be joined at the show by the Q Inspiration concept, which will also be seen in Asia for the first time and represents the first manifestation of Infiniti's new form language for an era of electrified powertrains.


China's electric car drive, led by BYD, leaves global brands behind

                SHANGHAI: China's auto market, the world’s largest, is accelerating towards an electric future – leaving established global brands stuck in the slow lane.

When auto executives convene in Shanghai for the auto show starting today, they will return to a sharply different market from the one they left in 2021 when the industry gathered for a limited event under strict Covid-19 controls.

The biggest change: China-made brands now lead in key segments and their rise has been powered by new electric-drive models that are gaining share at home and overseas.

The biggest winner has been BYD, which will use the Shanghai show to unveil a new hatchback electric vehicle (EV) for value-seeking buyers and a pricier EV styled as an SUV.

BYD’s sales in China are up almost 69% this year, giving it an 11% share of the overall car market, more than the Volkswagen brand or the Toyota brand, according to an analysis of sales data.

"The stratification of this market into clear winners and losers is becoming clear," Bill Russo, founder of consultancy Automobility said in a note issued on Tuesday.

"And there are very few winners and a whole lot of losers."

China’s passenger car sales were down 13% in the first quarter, data from the China Passenger Car Association show.

But sales of EVs and plug-in hybrids – an area where Chinese automakers led by BYD now dominate – were up 22%. Sales of internal-combustion vehicles were down by an almost equal margin.

The result has been a double whammy for the likes of Volkswagen, General Motors, Honda and Nissan. Sales are down and so is market share.

More than 40 auto brands have followed Tesla in cutting prices on EVs since January in a price war that has supported sales of EVs and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs), both of which are classed as “new energy vehicles” in China. It has also cut into industry-wide profitability, analysts say.

The ‘final bastion’ for combustion

For years, China’s entry-level market for passenger cars was dominated by combustion-engine cars made by global automakers in partnership with Chinese brands.

But for cars priced between US$22,500 and US$30,000, this year has been a wipeout for gasoline-only vehicles. Sales were down 20.5% in the first quarter, compared to a 68% gain for EVs and plug in hybrids.

BYD’s Song plug-in hybrid SUV, with a starting price of about US$20,000, outsold the Nissan Sylphy, which had been China’s top-selling car for three straight years. BYD’s Dolphin EV, which starts at about US$17,000, was ahead of the Volkswagen Passat.

Because of the cost pressure on EVs from battery materials, the entry-level market is likely to be “the final bastion” for gasoline-only vehicles in China, Xu Haidong, deputy chief engineer at the China Association of Automobile Manufacturers said.

In China’s premium market, with prices between about US$52,500 and US$60,000, electric-drive cars are already the best sellers.

BYD dominates China’s market for plug-in hybrids, cars that have a combustion engine but are capable of being charged and running for shorter distances on electric power.

Plug-ins represent more than half of BYD sales this year, giving the company scale to compete on price across its line-up, analysts say.

Tesla’s ‘heart and lungs’

Tesla saw a 27% increase in Chinese sales in the first quarter to just over 137,000 of its Model 3 sedans and Model Y crossovers. Tesla also increased share after cutting prices in China by between 6% and almost 14% in January.

That put starting prices for Teslas in China between US$7,500 and about US$10,700 lower than current US prices, which have also been discounted.

Analysts and investors will focus on what that means for margins when Tesla announces first-quarter results on Wednesday.

“Gaining further share in the key China market will be the hearts and lungs of the Tesla growth story,” Wedbush analyst Daniel Ives said in a note on Monday.

In a further threat to established brands, China’s exports are growing fast, led by EVs and PHEVs. Industry-wide exports from China were up 83% last quarter from a year earlier.

BYD, which markets its cars in Europe and Southeast Asia, had a 13-fold increase in exports from China.


VW teams up with Microsoft in cloud push

                WOLFSBURG: German automaker Volkswagen AG will use Microsoft Corp's Azure cloud platform to provide all future digital services and mobility offerings across its entire fleet, the companies said on Sept 28.

From 2020 onwards, more than 5 million new Volkswagen-brand vehicles per year will be fully connected and will be part of the Internet of Things (IoT) in the cloud.

By building the Volkswagen Automotive Cloud, Volkswagen will be able to leverage consistent mobility services across its entire portfolio and to provide new services and solutions such as in-car consumer experiences, telematics, and securely connect data between the car and the cloud.

Volkswagen will establish an automotive cloud development office in Washington State close to Microsoft's headquarters.

Automakers have been partnering with consumer technology companies as they increasingly invest in connected cars.

 Volkswagen will build all in-car services for vehicles of the core Volkswagen brand as well as the Group-wide cloud-based platform (also known as One Digital Platform, ODP) on Microsoft technology.


Auto sales to pick up from Q2

                PETALING JAYA: Positive consumer sentiment on the back of better economic growth is expected to spur car sales in 2021.

Vehicle sales growth is also anticipated to remain steady even if the sales tax exemption that ends this month is not extended, say analysts.

According to Frost & Sullivan Asia-Pacific mobility consulting analyst Nur Afiqah Mohamad, the sales tax exemption has been successful in dampening the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on the local automotive sector.

“Based on the sales performance observed during the sales tax exemption period in the second half of 2020, we expect automotive sales will see a moderate decline in the first few months of 2021.

“This is because consumers who intended to purchase new vehicles would have completed their purchases before the tax exemption expires, thus exhausting the demand for new passenger vehicle in early 2021, ” she told StarBiz in an e-mail.

An analyst with a local bank-backed brokerage said he expected total industry volume growth to be flat next year. “At most, we’re expecting low, single-digit growth for 2021, on the assumption that the sales tax exemption does not get extended into next year.

“Nevertheless, we expect better consumer sentiment for next year, underpinned by effective roll out and distribution of the vaccine which will spur economic growth and ultimately, car sales.”

Even if the sales tax exemption is not extended, the analyst added that vehicle sales would be spurred by new model launches and aggressive promotional campaigns.

“This should still be sufficient to create excitement in the market, ” he said.

Nur Afiqah, meanwhile, pointed out that the government’s decision to implement the sales tax exemption had proven successful to soften the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on automotive sector.

Last week, the Malaysian Automotive Association (MAA) revealed that total vehicle sales continued its upward trajectory for the sixth consecutive month this year in November, rising 7.4% to 56,489 units from 52,584 units in the previous corresponding period.

Last week, the Malaysian Automotive Association (MAA) revealed that total vehicle sales continued its upward trajectory for the sixth consecutive month this year in November, rising 7.4% to 56,489 units from 52,584 units in the previous corresponding period.

“Despite slow economic activities across major industries in Malaysia, the passenger vehicle segment has seen solid demand, particularly for completely-knocked-down units, as cautious consumers opt for more affordable vehicles.

“The tax exemption is also well-received by marques as an average of five new passenger vehicle models are launched every month between June to December 2020, hence creating a strong base for continuous demand after the sales tax exemption ends.”

She added that sales are expected to gradually improve in the second quarter of 2021, driven by the anticipated economic rebound post-Covid-19 vaccine delivery.

Last week, the Malaysian Automotive Association (MAA) revealed that total vehicle sales continued its upward trajectory for the sixth consecutive month this year in November, rising 7.4% to 56,489 units from 52,584 units in the previous corresponding period.

The pick-up in sales was mainly due to the government’s tax exemptions and aggressive promotional campaigns by automotive companies continued to drive sales.

Despite the year-on-year pick-up in sales, November’s TIV was 0.3% lower on a month-on-month basis compared with October.

Year-to-date November, TIV is still far off compared with last year, with total sales standing at 454,708 units compared with 549,439 units in the previous corresponding period.

On the outlook for December, the MAA said sales volume is expected to be much higher than November’s.

The association said the higher sales would be spurred by continuation of the impetus from sales tax exemption incentives for passenger vehicles, as well as the ongoing aggressive promotional campaigns by car companies.

Under the Short-Term Economic Recovery Plan (Penjana) announced by Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin in June, locally-assembled cars will be fully exempted from sales tax while for imported cars, the sales tax will be cut from 10% to 5%, until Dec 31.

In July, the MAA announced that it was revising upwards its vehicle sales target for the year by 17.5% to 470,000 units as the grim economic outlook is likely to be buffered by the various incentives recently announced by the government.

Nevertheless, the projection would not only mean that sales this year would be a 22% contraction from 2019’s 604,287 units sold. It would also be the first time in 13 years since TIV failed to surpass the 500,000-unit mark.

In April, the MAA revised downwards its 2020 TIV forecast to 400,000 units from the 607,000 units it had projected in January.


Honda teases Euro-Civic hatchback ahead of Paris reveal

                LONDON: The 10th generation Honda Civic hatchback will be making its global debut in Paris on Sept 28.

The new model, which is designed inside and out specifically for European tastes -- there's already a hatchback Civic out there in other markets -- is the marque's most important car.

The Civic is Honda's most popular and recognisable model around the globe and to ensure its continued popularity, the company embarked on its biggest ever R&D program to ensure the new Civic continues to tick every box.

"The unveil of the 10th generation Civic at this year's Paris Motor Show continues the journey we started last year with the complete overhaul of our entire range," said Philip Crossman, managing director at Honda UK. "We are in a fantastic position going forward."

After the event's press day on Sept 28, this year's Paris motor show will open to the public on Oct 1.


Man breaks world speed record for driving a tuk tuk

Everard (right) and passenger Russell Shearman celebrating their world record. — dpa
LONDON: Using a three-wheel Bangkok tuk tuk he once bought late at night on Ebay, a man in Britain has broken the top speed for a person driving a motorised rickshaw.

On May 13, Matt Everard successfully broke the previous world speed record of 110kph for a person driving a tuk tuk, a three wheel rickshaw predominantly used in Asian cities to shuttle people around - and not something known for its high speeds.

Using the longest runway in Britain at Elvington Airfield in Northern Yorkshire, Everard was able to set a new record of 119kph - not bad for a open-top three-wheeler.

A Guinness Book of Records adjudicator was at the scene to promptly give Everard and his brave passenger a certificate as the new record holders.

The collector had pimped out the 1971 original's two-stroke 350cc engine with a modern 1,300 cc fuel-injected Daihatsu motor capable of 144kph, a five-month project he says cost him £20,000 pounds (RM108,000).

Everard said he bought the three-wheeler late at night online, but admitted he found it hard to explain the decision to his wife the next morning.

"Imagine explaining to your straight-talking Essex wife that, after she went up to bed one night, you ended up buying a Thai tuk tuk from a bloke on the Internet."

According to the Guinness World Records, the record must be set in a so-called autorickshaw capable of carrying at least two passengers on a bench behind the driver.


Opel's cheap new electric microcar can be driven by 14-year-olds

                FRANKFURT: Opel is planning a small car for small people: a tiny new urban electric that can be legally driven by teenagers as young as 14 in parts of Europe.

The Rocks-e microcar slots into the European Union's AM class of driving licence, alongside quads and mopeds limited to 45kph, meaning it can be driven from ages 14 and up in countries like France and Italy, while other countries set the bar at 15 or 16.

Closely related to the Citroen Ami, it will cost significantly less than a conventional small car and will be cheaper to lease than a monthly ticket for public transport in places like Germany, where it costs around 75 euros a month.

If we can take the Ami as a yardstick, the Rocks-e should be available for about 7,000 euros in its home market.

With a length of 2.41 metres and a width of 1.39 metres, the angularly shaped vehicle made of plastic takes up even less road space than a Smart.

At 7.20 metres, the turning circle is also smaller than that of any other Opel.

The Rocks-e weighs just under 500kg and you climb in through doors that swing in opposite directions. It's powered by a small electric motor with a horsepower of no less than 8, which is enough to allow for a maximum speed of 45kph.

Then again, if your 14-year-old is behind the wheel of the car on busy city streets, perhaps you won't want them going any faster.

With electricity from a 5.5 kWh battery, the car is said to have a range for up to 75km, making it ideal for daily urban commutes, but less so for heading into the countryside.

Once it's empty, the Rocks-e needs three hours to recharge at a socket using its permanently installed cable.


Tesla’s Texas plant deal advances with county perks approval

Musk (right) speaking to the Oklahoma group.— Image source: twitter.com/GovStitt
NEW YORK: Texas is moving forward with efforts to woo Tesla Inc. and lure its next electric-vehicle factory after the county that’s home to the state capital signed off on a tax-relief package.

Commissioners in Travis County voted Tuesday to approve a 70% property-tax rebate on the first US$1.1 billion the company invests in a site near Austin. The abatement is worth at least US$13.9 million.

The areas of Austin and Tulsa, Oklahoma, are the finalists for landing the facility where Tesla plans to build the Cybertruck pickup that chief executive officer Elon Musk first unveiled late last year.

He has said on Twitter that the site also will supplement production of Model Y crossovers already being made at the company’s lone U.S. car-assembly plant in Fremont, California.

Tesla has told Travis County that its planned factory will eventually employ 5,000 full-time workers with an average salary of roughly US$47,000 a year. At least half of those will be county residents.

The weeks-long effort to secure the abatement from the Austin area has played out as Musk, 49, has openly tweeted about the level of support the city of Tulsa and state of Oklahoma have offered. He visited the area on July 3, and Governor Kevin Stitt shared photos the next day of the small contingent who welcomed the billionaire to town.

Nate Jensen, a government professor at the University of Texas-Austin, said securing county-level abatements could be a step towards Tesla eventually accessing bigger forms of support from the state, including from Texas Enterprise Fund, one of the largest payers of economic-development incentives in the nation.

"They’ll promise the world to the county — high environmental and wage standards, yearly audits — and then as soon as they get other, larger incentives, they’ll back out of city incentives,” Jensen said.

The other incentives the county is offering Tesla include a US$46.4 million property-tax break from the local school district over 10 years and an US$80 million cap on the taxable value of the plant.

If Tesla follows through with the project, it will be one of the largest economic-development agreements in Austin history.

Landing the factory would be a major boost to an area that saw its unemployment rate surge to 11.6% in May from 2.6% in February, with more than 81,000 losing their jobs in the midst of coronavirus-related shutdowns across the country.

Half of those were earning less than US$30,000 a year before being laid off from leisure and hospitality jobs, according to the Texas Workforce Commission.

Thousands of jobs would quickly open up for the start of construction, which Tesla wants to start this quarter.

The project hasn’t been unequivocally supported by all. Labour leaders and progressive groups urged the five-member board of commissioners to take their time and negotiate the best deal possible, calling for elected officials to ask for in-writing worker protections and a guarantee of a US$15-an-hour wage for all employees.


Isuzu Malaysia posts record sales of 9,211 units in 2022

                PETALING JAYA: Isuzu Malaysia ended 2022 with record-breaking performance, chalking up 9,211 units in sales of the amazing Isuzu D-Max pick-up truck, a few tens shy of doubling the numbers the company achieved in 2021.

The stellar performance sets a new record for the company with an all-time high, eclipsing the previous record of 6,480 units sold in 2016.

The impressive performance was spurred by huge interest in the 1.9-litre variants that have proven to be unbelievably light on running costs yet a heavyweight when it comes to design, features, performance and safety.

 Okazoe with the D-Max X-Terrain premium variant.

Making up 79% of the total portfolio, the 1.9-litre variants have been the prime choice of Malaysians, particularly those in Peninsular Malaysia where 55% of the pick-up trucks are sold.

Significantly, the flagship X-Terrain variant made inroads into the upper echelon of the premium lifestyle segment despite being the relative newcomer.

A total 877 units were delivered to customers who gushed over the model’s handsome design, invitingly-premium interior, exemplary performance and cutting-edge safety features.

Isuzu Malaysia chief executive officer Shunsuke Okazoe said the third-generation D-Max pick-up truck had achieved extraordinary heights in terms of market penetration despite facing stock limitations from the factory.

 Stylish and car-like interior.

“Thanks to its exceptional design and future-looking features, the latest generation D-Max brings new levels of driving comfort and performance without losing any inherent Isuzu family traits.

“It is a true representation of a modern day pick-up truck,” said Okazoe.

Unsurprisingly, the appeal of the new third-generation D-Max not only impressed owners but the discerning automotive media as well.

Numerous reviewers have awarded not only the top-of-the-line X-Terrain but various other models of the D-Max as well with the title of ‘Pick-up Truck of the Year’.

With every model across the board boasting the top Asean ANCAP 5-star safety rating, the D-Max range offers exceptional peace of mind, no more so than the X-Terrain variant that further comes with a ground-breaking 7-year unlimited mileage warranty.

 The D-Max stands out in fuel economy and reliability.

Isuzu Malaysia chief operating officer Kenkichi Sogo said the company's focus for this year would be to ensure that its customer experience remains positive as it aimed to reduce the delivery times and to enhance network.

“I wish to thank all our customers for their support and patience and also our partners who have helped us rise to the top despite the challenges faced in the supply of vehicles,” said Sogo.

Isuzu has a wide selection of variants to meet the needs and applications of every pick-up truck user, ranging from the highly versatile Single Cab to the exceptionally economical 4X2 Automatic Double Cab, 4X4 models and the game-changing X-Terrain.

For details, visit the nearest authorised Isuzu showroom via pickuptruck.isuzu.net.my or https://www.facebook.com/ISUZU.DMax.Malaysia/


May 23-29: Fuel prices all up

                PETALING JAYA: Fuel prices will rise across the board for the second week in a row from May 23 to 29.

The Finance Ministry said that RON97 petrol will be priced at RM1.68 per litre, up seven sen from RM1.61.

The price of RON95 and diesel will increase by seven sen and six sen, respectively.

RON95 petrol price will increase from RM1.31 per litre to RM1.38 per litre, while diesel from RM1.45 per litre to RM1.51 per litre.

The ministry said that the higher fuel prices were due to the increase in refined product prices, in line with the rise in global crude oil prices.

“The government will continue to monitor the impact of the global crude oil price change and take appropriate measures to ensure the welfare and well-being of the people," the ministry said in a statement today.


Polestar 1 winter testing video released

                GOTHENBURG (Sweden): Next week will see the Polestar 1 coupe get its Chinese debut at the Beijing Motor Show following its global launch at the Geneva Motor Show last month.

Ahead of its appearance in Beijing, Polestar has released a video of this sensational new car undergoing winter testing in the Swedish Arctic Circle.

The car shown in the video is said by Polestar to be the first working prototype of the Polestar 1, and it was certainly being put through its paces in challenging conditions with temperatures as low as -28°C.

As Polestar is the electrified performance offshoot of Volvo, it's likely to have inherited a large amount of the Swedish automaker's considerable experience of cold weather operation.

Although the trial in such freezing conditions will test how the car starts and runs in the cold, the manufacturer insists the icy venue also allows for the scrutinising of the car's torque vectoring system that's run by its dual electric motors in the rear.

This kind of vigorous driving on snow and ice is likely to reveal any requirement for adjustment because ice tracks are outstanding arenas for tests of vehicle handling.

Speaking of how the Polestar 1 is a genuine driver's car, company CEO Thomas Ingenlath says the torque vectoring "enhances the Polestar 1's cornering responsiveness and accuracy," and reports that the test drivers are "very happy with the balance of the chassis."

Polestar has confirmed testing will continue throughout the rest of this year, which sounds like good news for the drivers who are actually getting paid for fooling around on the snow-covered roads of Lapland in a 592bhp hybrid coupe.

Deposits of €2,500 (around RM12,000) are already being taken, and the cars themselves should become available next year. Most are expected to be supplied via a subscription service and will be shown in Polestar's standalone showrooms.

This model will be the company's sole hybrid offering as every vehicle introduced after the Polestar 1 will be all-electric. It was initially intended that just 1,500 units of this halo car would be produced, but as demand is set to massively outstrip that level of supply it's likely many, many more will actually be built.


First drive of all-new Nissan X-Trail

                WITH clear blue skies, we had the relentless sun beating upon our heads before setting off in the latest mid-sized Nissan X-Trail 5+2 seater sports utility vehicle, which looks ready to do battle with the likes of Mazda CX-5, Honda CR-V and the Mitsubishi ASX.

Our 16-car convoy departed Edaran Tan Chong Motor’s Glenmarie centre for the once moss-filled beaches that gave the coastal town in the eastern state of Perak its name – Lumut, which is now home to our Royal Malaysian Navy and a gateway to the little island of Pangkor.

The northbound drive would take us through the Guthrie Corridor Expressway towards Rawang, before peeling off the beaten path, heading east towards the Malacca Straits and then north towards Sitiawan.

Externally, there’s nothing except for a four-wheel drive (4WD) badge to set the range-topping 2.5L all-wheel drive apart from its 2.0L front-wheel drive sibling that’s priced on-the-road-with-insurance at RM165,800 and RM142,800, respectively.

We’re certainly “digging” the latest X-Trail’s looks, which trades its block-like styling, chiselled edges and flat panels for some new creases and sensual curves – putting some “meat” on its predecessor’s “bones”, so to speak.

Admittedly, the new X-Trail is stylishly fashionable enough to attract the gentlewoman while providing her with plenty of room to litter her belongings around and with enough safety features to relatively protect in a sticky situation.

As for the gentleman, the X-Trail still manages to look aggressive and comes with performance and enough bells and whistles to keep satisfaction levels high.

It’s a spacious affair inside the X-Trail. Both front and rear seats come with 10 cup holders, located throughout the vehicle; four for the doors, two at the centre console (with cooler vents), two for the rear armrest and two more for the third row passengers.

Although average-sized adults would find the third row seats a challenging fit, they do not eat into the boot’s 510L of space (expandable to 1,520L) by folding away flush with the floorboard and can be called upon by tethers – tug and ye shall receive.

 Optional 8-inch multimedia navigator (RM3,800) seen in the 2.5L Nissan X-Trail.

Even the tonneau cover, which adds a little more privacy to the nature of your cargo, is also hidden under a separate section within the floorboard.

The 2.5L oozes some luxury from the get-go with its leather clad interior and touches of faux-carbon fibre, keyless entry / push-start button and six-speaker sound system with an optional eight-inch touchscreen multimedia display (RM3,800). Otherwise, the standard head unit is five-inch.

Bluetooth connectivity, a reverse camera and an Around View Monitor (standard across both variants) – providing a 360-degree view – have been included and give a nice touch at this price point.

Not to say that the 2.0L variant fails in this respect. Even though it lacks the eight-way power adjustable with 2-way lumbar support for the seats, being upholstered in a supple fabric while managing to afford a good amount of comfort provides for some premium feel.

Travelling at highway speeds, the wing mirrors do create a considerable amount of air turbulence around it, causing the wind to buffet extensively against the front door’s windows.

Heading higher into the speed range, we noted that there was a fair amount of shiver from the X-Trail’s hood, which can be rather irritating and/or distracting.

Since looks can be deceiving, we were eager to see its behaviour when taken to the tarmac with its 17-inch alloy wheels equipped with 225/65 tyres.

While the X-Trail’s engine drinks from a 60L fuel tank, the 2.0L mid-revving MR20DD engine with direct injection, provides 142bhp at 6,000rpm and 200Nm of torque at 4,400rpm.

In comparison, the 2.5L QR25DE-K2 with 4WD dishes out 26bhp and 33Nm more at 168bhp at 6,000rpm and 233Nm of torque at 4,000rpm.

 2.5L QR25DE-K2 4-cyl engine provides power for its 4WD drivetrain

Both engine variants are married to a continuously variable transmission (CVT) with seven virtual gears, and we surprisingly found that the natural whines of a CVT were kept well at bay from the cabin, up till the engine reaches around the 4,000rpm mark.

The first half of our journey allowed us some highway bonding time with the entry-level 5+2 seater and its 2.0L capabilities.

A reasonable amount of gusto comes from the 2.0L, considering its got 1,541kg to pull, but it’ll need to rev high to put the power down.

The 2.5L may carry 71kg more at 1,612kg; throwing its weight around the B-roads gets some roll (attributable to the tyre’s 65mm-tall sidewalls perhaps), but sticks to the intended line with very little fuss.

Even the rear feels planted and follows willingly.

 Optiional 8-inch multimedia navigator (RM3,800)

The X-Trail’s steering excels regardless of it being a 2.0L or 2.5L with a good amount of road-feel coming back to the driver that adds a reassuring nimbleness to it and heightens the joy of driving it.

Our initial impression of the X-Trail’s independent suspension leaned on the firm side, but after experiencing the rougher “country” roads with active ride control (ARC) as standard, we later found them to possess a unique compliance that does well to insulate its occupants.

The ARC contains a few systems within and includes active engine brake to provide engine braking via the CVT when slowing down; active trace control to improve cornering stability; and active brake limited slip to apply the brakes on individual wheels when required.

Braking performance from its ventilated discs was found to be admirable in taking some abuse, but we thought that the pedal-feel was rather lacking with a spongy feel.

Regardless of variants, Nissan could have provided more than just two airbags for the X-Trail, but has thankfully included the usual anti-lock braking system with electronic brake-force distribution and brake assist; vehicle dynamic control with traction control; and hill start assist.

 The X-Trail gets Hill start assist which holds the vehicle on the slope for 4sec as well as advanced hill descent control (usually found on more beefier 4x4 pickups)

We managed to engage in some off-roading on a plantation trail with the 2.5L and its intelligent 4WD drivetrain, which provides advanced hill descent control as well as three drive modes of two-wheel drive (2WD), auto mode (change from 2WD to 4WD on the fly) and lock mode (permanent 4X4 mode).

The trail would call for some caution if faced by a novice, but to the more learned, it may seem like a relatively comfortable journey when compared to the perils offered by Mount Kinabalu – nonetheless the X-Trail dispatched it with little effort.

With such a leap into modernity with its new found spaciousness and passive safety systems, we wouldn’t be surprised if the re-incarnated X-Trail became a hard one SUV to resist.

Nissan X-Trail 2.0Nissan X-Trail 2.0Nissan X-Trail 2.0Nissan X-Trail 2.0Nissan X-Trail 2.0 and its 2.0L mid-revving MR20DD engineNissan X-Trail 2.0Nissan X-Trail 2.0 - Standard 5-inch LCD display


16-year-old Porsche driver sets Guinness record for fastest slalom

ATLANTA: Porsche Cars North America announced a new Guinness World Records achievement for the "Fastest Vehicle Slalom."

Sixteen-year-old Chloe Chambers achieved the 47.45-second run on Aug 21, setting a new benchmark pace in an exercise that tests both driver and vehicle.

She achieved this feat behind the wheel of a 2020 Porsche 718 Spyder, which was completely stock, right down to its tyres. Chambers, who has seven years of racing experience, currently competes in several karting series.

“It looks easy, but it’s really not – to weave between 50 cones as fast as possible, trying to beat a record time and knowing I couldn’t touch a single one for the run to count – I definitely felt the pressure,” Chambers said.

“Everything came together on my final run; the car worked beautifully and I found the grip I needed. Thank you to my family and to Porsche for supporting and believing in me.”

Because her racing experience is mostly in Kart, Chloe had to quickly adapt to driving a car. Nevertheless, she thrived on the challenge, quickly gaining confidence and finding the right balance, in the process opting for a 718 Spyder equipped with a manual gearbox. She beat a record set in China in 2018.

“We couldn’t be more proud that Chloe set the record,” said Klaus Zellmer, President and CEO of Porsche Cars North America. “From the whole Porsche family we send our heartfelt congratulations – we’re pleased to have been able to support Chloe with her ambitious record attempt and share her relief that it was successful.”

The 718 Spyder uses a track-bred Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) setup with adaptive dampers, helper springs on the rear axle and a ride height that is 30mm lower than a standard 718 Boxster or Cayman, making it the ideal candidate to set the new Guinness World Records record.

The record was broken in August under the supervision of an adjudicator from Guinness World Records on an independently-certified course measured by a surveyor. The course was laid out on an air strip and consisted of 51 cones equally spaced at 50-foot intervals. Timekeeping of the record run was conducted by Racelogic.


Nissan says talks with Renault focused on better competing in electric cars

                TOKYO: Nissan Motor Co's talks with Renault SA on revamping their alliance are focused on strengthening competitiveness as equal partners and getting the most from their investment in electric cars, said the Japanese automaker's CEO.

The negotiations with Renault, Nissan's top shareholder, have less than two weeks remaining to meet a Nov 15 target the companies had set to reach a deal, according to people with knowledge of the talks.

Nissan chief executive Makoto Uchida declined to comment on whether an agreement could be reached this month. But he said he was talking with Renault CEO Luca de Meo every weekend and the talks would be "ongoing for the future."

People familiar with the negotiations have said the sharing of technology had emerged as one sticking point.

Uchida, who has spent much of his Nissan career in positions related to the Franco-Japanese alliance, emphasised that the talks were based on mutual trust. Each company had valuable technology and discussions of technology transfers were to be expected, he added.

He said the goal was to improve the automakers' ability to compete at a time of economic uncertainty and as the industry pushes toward what he described as its biggest transformation in a century with the shift to electric vehicles.

"The discussion we are having is about how to make our competitiveness even stronger," Uchida said in an interview with Reuters on Friday. "That's number one."

His comments were his first to media since the automakers last month said they were discussing the future of their alliance. The partnership, which began with a 1999 investment from Renault and was long overseen by former executive-turned-fugitive Carlos Ghosn, was critical to turning around the Japanese automaker.

But Nissan executives have over the years bristled over the unequal ownership structure, with Renault owning 43% of Nissan and the Japanese automaker holding only a 15% non-voting stake in Renault.

People with knowledge of the talks have said the two sides have been discussing a reduction in Renault's stake, potentially to 15%, and the terms under which that could happen.

"We want it to be an equal partnership," Uchida said, adding that an "equal partnership would make sense and that would speed up the collaboration even more."

He did not comment on potential stake levels.

Ampere and horse

The companies also said last month that Nissan is considering investing in Renault's new electric vehicle unit, code-named "Ampere" and which will be split off from its internal combustion engine business, code-named "Horse".

Uchida declined to say whether Nissan is considering an increase to a previously announced plan to invest 2 trillion yen (RM65bil) in electric vehicles by 2026.

On a separate track from its discussions with Nissan, Renault has also been talking to Geely Automobile Holdings about the Chinese automaker taking a stake in its internal combustion-engine unit, people familiar with those talks have said.

That unit includes Renault production sites in Spain, Portugal, Turkey, Romania and Latin America.

Uchida said Nissan understood the transformation Renault was undertaking with the carving out of its gasoline-car business and that "fair treatment" for Nissan as part of a new partnership was an area of discussion. He did not mention Geely by name.

"If they have their new partner, A or B or C, what does that mean? We are openly discussing that," he said.

"Transparency is very important," he added.

Uchida also said Nissan was making contingency plans for the prospect of a global recession. "For us to be sustainable in the market, we need to anticipate many scenarios, and that's what we're doing," he said.

He cited the depreciation of the yen to its lowest level in decades as another concern for Nissan.


German carmakers are bleakest about their future since 2008

                FRANKFURT: German automakers’ expectations are at their worst since the 2008 financial crisis due to inflationary pressures, sclerotic economic growth in Europe and punishing competition from Tesla Inc. as well as Chinese carmakers.

The future view by the likes of Volkswagen, Mercedes-Benz, and BMW deteriorated for a fifth month in June to minus 56.9 points, a slump from minus 10.3 points the month before, according to a survey by the Munich-based Ifo Institute published on Wednesday.

That’s not far off 2008’s low of minus 67.8.

The darkening expectations follow a surge in global interest rates and a growing number of corporate profit warnings, denting optimism of a soft economic landing.

Some German industrials, notably chemical maker Lanxess AG, have cut or withdrawn outlooks in recent weeks because of softer demand, with more companies due to report financials and detail their view of the year in coming weeks.

“Automakers are experiencing great uncertainty, comparable to the early days of the war in Ukraine,” said Oliver Falck, head of the Ifo Center for Industrial Organization and New Technologies.

To compensate, carmakers plan to raise prices, particularly for premium and electric vehicle models, he said.

Germany’s automotive industry is ramping up production of electric vehicles, but has struggled to keep pace with competitors.

VW in particular has come under pressure in China, its biggest market by Tesla and local EV makers such as BYD Co., which outsold Volkswagen for the first time earlier this year.

While auto stocks have gained this year, with Europe’s biggest carmaker VW gaining 5.2%, their moves have been dwarfed by Tesla more than doubling in value.

The poor future outlook contrasts with carmakers’ appraisal of their current situation, which improved significantly since May to 37.5 points on the indicator from 28.4, Ifo said.


Japan startup targets supercar users with US$700,000 hoverbike

                TOKYO: A Japanese startup backed by soccer player Keisuke Honda hopes to persuade wealthy consumers to swap their supercar for a 77.7 million yen or US$700,000 (RM2.9mil) hoverbike which went on sale on Tuesday.

The "XTurismo Limited Edition" from Tokyo-based drone startup A.L.I. Technologies is equipped with a conventional engine and four battery-powered motors and promises to fly for 40 minutes at up to 100kph.

"Until now, the choice has been to move on the ground or at scale in the sky. We hope to offer a new method of movement," said chief executive Daisuke Katano.

The black and red hoverbike consists of a motorcycle-like body on top of propellers. The machine rests on landing skids when stationary.

The startup, whose backers include industrial heavyweights Mitsubishi Electric and Kyocera, demonstrated the bike with a short flight a few metres off the ground at a race track near Mount Fuji.

Katano said that in the near term its uses will be limited to such sites - and will not be allowed to fly over Japan's packed roads. But the bike could be used by rescue teams to reach difficult to access locations, he said.

Strict regulations in Japan driven by safety concerns have hobbled the growth of sectors like ride-sharing. Pending rule changes could extend the bike's potential applications, Katano said.

Funding is flowing to startups from California-based Joby Aviation to Israel's AIR who promise to usher in an era of personal air transportation from jetpacks to flying taxis.

Commercial success for A.L.I. Technologies, whose suppliers include engine maker Kawasaki Heavy, would help reinforce Japan's industrial edge amid a generational shift towards new technology such as autonomous and electric vehicles.


Passenger selfies required for Grab driver safety

Generic pic of man taking a selfie. — dpa
PETALING JAYA: In a bid to enhance driver safety, Grab Malaysia is implementing facial recognition technology in its app.

The facial recognition technology, which is now an essential component of the e-hailing operator's Passenger Verification feature, was unveiled at its office here on Thursday (April 11), in collaboration with the Transport Ministry.

With the incorporation of the technology, first-time users are required to take a selfie of themselves using the Grab app before booking their first ride.

Transport Minister Anthony Loke, who was present at the launch, praised Grab Malaysia for its initiative in ensuring the safety of its drivers.

"It is important that the public and private sectors work hand-in-hand to harness new technologies for social good," he said.

Grab Malaysia country head Sean Goh said with the facial recognition feature, driver safety would be assured, while passengers privacy would still be protected.

"Their selfie will only be used for one-time verification purposes, and it will not be shown to drivers," said Goh, adding that their personal data was protected under Malaysia's Personal Data Protection Act.


Ferrari 296 GTS retractable hard top launched from RM1.448mil

                SEPANG: Following the local launch of the Ferrari 296 GTB in March, Naza Italia has followed up with the equally exciting 296 GTS convertible stablemate.

Making its Southeast Asian premiere at the Sepang International Circuit, the 296 GTS plug-in hybrid is available from a base price of RM1.448mil, before duties, customisation options, taxes and insurance.

The 296 GTS’ name combines its engine's displacement of 2,992cc and its six cylinders with the GTS (Gran Turismo Spider) acronym in Ferrari tradition.

The two-seater high performance sports car features the mid-rear mounted V6 petrol/electric hybrid powertrain that is also used in the 296 GTB, resulting in a Ferrari V6 with a combined output of 830CV and a specific power output record for a production car of 221CV per litre.

Individually, the 3.0-litre 120-degree V6 block with IHI turbochargers, coupled to an eight-speed dual clutch transmission (DCT) with E-Diff, cranks out 663CV and 740Nm of torque, while the rear mounted-electric motor delivers 167CV and 315Nm of torque for a 0-100kph sprint in 2.9 seconds, 0-200kph in 7.6 seconds and a top speed of 330kph.

Like the 296 GTB, the 296 GTS can also brake from 200kph to a complete stop in 107 metres and completes the Fiorano track in 1 minute and 21 seconds.

The dual-rotor single-stator axial flux motor, derived from the Ferrari's Formula 1 application and also known as the MGU-K (Motor Generator Unit, Kinetic), is compact and allows reduced powertrain length to fit into the 296 GTS’s short wheelbase.

The electric motor and V6 engine communicate via the Transition Manager Actuator (TMA) which allows them to be used both together to produce a combined power output of 830CV, or decouples them to allow the electric motor to run solo.

While being able to provide a 25km range and a top speed of 135kph in all-electric eDrive mode, the 296 GTS’s plug-in hybrid (PHEV) system powered by a 7.45kWh high-voltage lithium ion battery also cuts down pedal response times to zero.

The battery pack is located on the floor behind the seats, and to minimise volume and weight, the cooling system, structure and fixing points are integrated into a single component.

The retractable hard top (RHT), which is the 296 GTS' most visible differentiation from the 296 GTB, guarantees exceptional occupant comfort as well as high speed open top driving thrills.

With the roof stowed, it features a sleek, sporty design and with the roof up, the silhouette remains very similar to that of the 296 GTB.

The lightweight RHT, which stows inside the engine compartment, takes 14 seconds to retract or deploy at speeds of up to 45kph.

The 296 GTB’s chassis was redesigned and optimised for the 296 GTS to improve torsional rigidity and bending stiffness compared to previous spider applications.

This was achieved to the tune of 50% in the case of the former and 8% in the case of the latter.

The main areas involved were the A-pillar, B-pillar and sills.

Inside the 296 GTS features exclusive Italian leather upholstery and technical materials, while  the tunnel incorporates a modern take on the classic gear-shift gate.

The steering wheel comes with an eManettino with four positions for eDrive, Hybrid, Performance and Qualify.

Aerodynamic flaps have been integrated into the rear trim structure to reduce buffeting and increase comfort in open-top driving.

Like the 296 GTB, the 296 GTS also gets the signature ‘tea-tray’ aerodynamic element at the front to produce greater downforce to the front axle.

The LaFerrari-inspired active spoiler integrated into the rear bumper allows the 296 GTS to generate a high level of rear downforce when required to the equivalent of a maximum of 360kg at 250kph in the high-downforce configuration with the Assetto Fiorano package.

Other features include the electronic Side Slip Control (eSSC) system, brake-by-wire system, ‘Aero’ brake callipers, electric power steering and SCM-Frs magnetorheological dampers.

The 296 GTS can also be enhanced with the Assetto Fiorano package for maximum performance for significant weight reduction and aero content.

The package includes grippy Michelin Pilot Sport Cup2R high performance tyres, special GT racing-derived adjustable Multimatic shock absorbers optimised for track use; high downforce carbon-fibre appendages on the front bumper for 10kg more of downforce and extensive use of lightweight materials such as carbon-fibre for both cabin and exterior. Woo (left) and Knechtel at the premiere.

Naza Italia general manager Damien Woo said the convertible version of Ferrari’s first 6-cylinder road-going car takes driving thrills to new heights.

“Subtly restyled to accommodate the open top, the Ferrari 296 GTS adds a sense of freedom to the fun of every journey.

“At the wheel of the 296 GTS, you get to enjoy the result of Ferrari’s exploration into electric technology and also have the ability to make the most of the weather and your mood, maximising driving pleasure,” he said.

Ferrari Far East and Middle East Hub president Dieter Knechtel said Ferrari's key consideration was to incorporate the next generation hybrid technology without compromising on power and maintaining driving engagement.

“The 296 GTS has been engineered to deliver just that – thrilling performance with the concept of ‘fun-to-drive’ at the heart of its design,” he said.

The 296 GTS comes with an extended seven-year or 120,000km maintenance package.

For more about Ferrari Malaysia, visit the official Facebook page: http://www.facebook.com/ferrari.nazaitalia.

Follow @ferrari.malaysia on Instagram for the latest updates and offerings of Ferrari and Naza Italia.


Harley's first-ever electric motorcycle to launch in 2019

                MILWAUKEE: Harley-Davidson has announced that it will roll out its first-ever electric motorcycle, based on the 2014 Livewire concept bike, in 2019. The American manufacturer has revealed a number of photos of the new machine, but has yet to supply detailed specifications.

It will have taken Harley-Davidson more than 115 years to launch its first ever fully electric motorcycle. Although it is likely to offend purists, the manufacturer argues that the new model will preserve the essence of a brand that has an established reputation for style, comfort and performance.

The LiveWire will likely be extensively inspired by the concept bike already unveiled by Harley-Davidson.

On that basis, it should be a high-end motorcycle that is both powerful and easy to ride. Let's not forget that the 2014 concept had a 55kW motor, which provided the equivalent of 74hp. However, the figure for the concept's range, which was barely more than 80km, will have to be significantly increased for the production version if it is to win over the general public.

When it is launched in 2019, the LiveWire will be initially available in the United States and Europe.

Thereafter, Harley-Davidson plans to develop other lighter and more agile models that are fully electric by 2022. In the long term, the manufacturer aims to become the global leader in electric motorcycles.


Lamborghini Huracán EVO Spyder revealed

                BOLOGNA: The new Lamborghini Huracán EVO rear wheel drive Spyder has a V10 aspirated power plant, delivering the same 610 hp (449 kW) and 560Nm of torque as the coupé version.

The new V10 model provides open-air driving, and a specially tuned Performance Traction Control System (P-TCS).

With a 0-100kph acceleration of just 3.5 seconds and a top speed of 324kph, the Huracán EVO RWD Spyder's soft-top roof stows within 17 seconds under the rear hood, even while driving up to a speed of 50kph.

With soft top both up and down, the driver can also electronically open the rear window, which functions as a windshield when up and highlights the V10 engine’s unique sound when down.

Two removable lateral wind shields dampen lateral aerodynamic noise in the cabin, permitting conversations even at high speeds.

An HMI 8.4-inch touchscreen in the Spyder’s center console controls the car’s functions as well as providing comprehensive connectivity for telephone calls, internet access and Apple CarPlay.

The Huracán EVO Spyder’s ANIMA button on the steering wheel puts the pilot in control of driving modes, with the P-TCS calibrated to suit.

STRADA provides stability and safety in all conditions by minimising rear-wheel slippage, and more proactively managing torque delivery on low-adhesion surfaces.

In SPORT mode, the driver enjoys drifting fun, allowing the rear wheels to slide and skate during acceleration, with torque limited when oversteer angles increase rapidly so the driver can stabilize and control the car.

CORSA mode optimises the car’s traction and agility when exiting a corner in high-performance conditions, maximising dynamics and speed.

The Huracán EVO RWD Spyder’s aluminum and thermoplastic resin body sits on a lightweight hybrid chassis in aluminum and carbon fiber, with a dry weight of 1,509 kg and a weight-to-power ratio of 2.47 kg/hp.

Front/rear weight distribution of 40/60, with double wishbone suspension with overlapped quadrilaterals and passive shock absorbers, providing optimized driver feedback.

Ventilated and cross-drilled steel brakes are fitted to 19-inch Kari rims with specially-developed Pirelli P Zero tires, with optional 20-inch rims and carbon ceramic brakes.

The supercar was launched virtually using Augmented Reality (AR) for the first time on its official website lamborghini.com. Using Apple’s AR Quick Look, the company brought its latest V10 model to customers and fans worldwide provided they have an iPhone or iPad.

The virtual experience enables the viewer to rotate and expand the size of the vehicle, including on a 1:1 scale, looking closely at both its exterior and interior details and taking pictures of the new car with a high level of photorealism. This functionality will soon be available for the entire Lamborghini range.


Axia helps Perodua grab lion's share of projected TIV

                KUALA LUMPUR: The Axia has been instrumental in helping Perodua capture 36.3% of the estimated total industry volume of 130,000 in the first quarter of the year.

Despite the increase in market share with 47,200 vehicles sold, Perodua sales quarter-on-quarter declined by 17.4% from 57,200 units compared to the corresponding quarter in 2015.

On a month-to-month basis, Perodua sold 17,300 vehicles in March 2016 against 22,400 units in the same month last year, a drop of 22.8%.

“This decline is due to consumers rushing to buy their vehicles before the implementation of the Goods and Services Tax or GST in March last year,” said Perodua president and CEO Datuk Aminar Rashid Salleh.

“We estimated that the TIV in March 2016 fell by 29% to 47,700 from 67,300 units in the same month last year and this has resulted in Perodua’s market share increasing to 37.1% in March this year,” he said.

“Based on our research, we can deduce that the decrease in TIV was due to the slower pace of the economy, the increase in vehicle prices by some of the players due to a softer ringgit and the lingering effects of the GST,” Aminar said.

He said that the numbers announced were based on its research and was subject to official figures from the Malaysia Automotive Association (MAA).

On Perodua’s aftersales business, Perodua saw 515,343 intakes for the first quarter of the year, an increase of 7% from 481,627 intakes in the first quarter of 2015.

Parts and accessories revenue rose 4% to RM65 million in the first quarter of 2016 from RM62.5 million in the same quarter last year.

Perodua has also produced 48,300 vehicles in the first quarter of the year against 60,100 vehicles in the same quarter of 2015. The lower production is due to some carry over stock from 2015 as well as the slower pace of the economy in the first quarter.

On exports, Perodua will gradually increase its numbers, particularly with the recent launch of the Myvi and Alza in Brunei.

“For the first quarter of 2016, we have exported 1,600 vehicles to six countries, which is an increase of 55.8% from 1,030 vehicles in the same quarter last year,” Aminar said.

“We aim to steadily grow our regional reach as we further improve our operations to become globally competitive,” he said.

“With regards to our profits over the first quarter, the impact of the USD, in particular to the ringgit and our sales volume mix, continues to be a big challenge in meeting our target.”

“While we are glad to improve our market share, a bigger ratio of our sales is coming from the lower variants of our models, which enjoy smaller margins, hence the impact to our bottom line,” said Aminar.


Tesla upgrades Model S, X cars, brings backs cheaper variants

                SAN FRANCISCO: Tesla Inc, struggling with delay in delivery of its higher-priced Model S and X luxury cars, said on Tuesday it will bring back lower-priced options for those cars and roll out upgrades to improve their driving range and re-charging speed.

The company, striving to improve margins and post a profit later this year, has laid off workers including about half of the team hired to deliver cars in the United States, and said it would close stores to lower costs.

Tesla has since said it will keep higher-volume stores open, while announcing a 3 percent price increase on some models.

The upgrades include a new drivetrain design and a new adaptive suspension system, increasing each vehicle's driving range, the company said in a blog post here ahead of its first-quarter results today.

With the upgrades, the long-range version of Model S and X can now travel 595.5km and 523km, respectively, on the US Environmental Protection Agency cycle.

The lower-priced options, or the "standard range" versions, of Model X and Model S were available for purchase on Tesla’s website after Tuesday’s announcement for US$83,000 and US$78,000, respectively. Estimated delivery of both cars was set for May.

Earlier in April, Tesla reported fewer-than-expected vehicle deliveries in the first quarter, with figures for the Model S sedans and Model X SUVs more-than-halving compared with the preceding quarter.

The Silicon Valley carmaker has faced a range of challenges over the past year as one of the leaders in electric vehicle technology sought to ramp up production, deliveries and sales of the Model 3 sedan seen as crucial to its long-term profitability.


Royal Enfield Hunter 350 introduced from RM22,200

                KUALA LUMPUR: Royal Enfield in Malaysia launched the popular Royal Enfield Hunter 350 recently which features a classic design.

Priced without insurance and road tax at RM22,200, the motorcycle is a value-for-money good choice for those who want a retro-looking motorcycle with modern features.

The Hunter 350 is equipped with a 346cc, air-cooled, single-cylinder engine that produces 20.2hp and 27Nm of torque which is ideal for cruising comfortably at highway speeds while also providing ample power for urban riding.

Its upright handlebar and well-padded seat allow for a comfortable riding position and are suitable for long rides, as well as for commuting in city traffic.

Royal Enfield motorcycles are known for their simplicity and reliability, and the Hunter 350 is no exception with its proven engine design makes it easy to maintain and repair, along with readily available spare parts.


Singapore may deny entry to foreign vehicle with outstanding fines from April 1

File pic of traffic police officers issuing a summons to a lorry driver for not wearing his safety belt in Tuas. - The Straits Times / Asia News Network
SINGAPORE: Singapore may deny entry to foreign vehicles with a number of outstanding fines for traffic, parking or vehicular emissions offences, starting April 1.

"This move aims to strengthen enforcement of such offences," according to a joint statement by the Housing and Development Board, Land Transport Authority, National Environment Agency, Singapore Police Force and the Urban Redevelopment Authority.

According to the statement, about 60,000 foreign vehicles enter Singapore daily.

"The majority of foreign motorists are law-abiding. However, there are some who break our rules but do not settle their outstanding fines for offences committed.

"We take a serious view of those who do not do so. To remind foreign motorists to settle their outstanding fines, flyers have been distributed, and billboards displayed, at land checkpoints.

"Traffic police and other government agencies have also been conducting operations at the land checkpoints to detect such vehicles, to get them to settle their outstanding fines," the agencies said today.

Despite these measures, the agencies said some foreign motorists continue to disregard their outstanding fines.

"To further deter such behaviour and more effectively enforce against those who fail to settle their fines, foreign vehicles with a number of outstanding fines for vehicle-related offences may be denied entry into Singapore from April 1, 2019," they said.

To avoid being denied entry into Singapore, foreign motorists are strongly advised by the agencies to check if they have any outstanding fines for vehicle-related offences and settle them promptly.

All fines can be checked at www.axs.com.sg.

Payment for the fines can be made through four channels namely AXS kiosks, AXS website and AXS mobile app; respective agencies' websites; respective agencies' customer service counters; and SingPost Post Offices (applicable for all agencies except Traffic police).

The statement said foreign motorists who wish to seek clarifications on their offences may contact the Housing and Development Board at 1800 2255432 or email: hdbcarparks@mailbox.hdb.gov.sg; Land Transport Authority

(1800 2255582); National Environment Agency (6225 5632); Singapore Police Force (Traffic police) (6547 0000); and Urban Redevelopment Authority (6329 3434).


All new Volvo car models can now receive over-the-air software

                GOTHENBURG: All new Volvo car models are now available with over-the-air (OTA) software update capability.

The OTA capability now comes to the latest XC90, S60 and V60 models and follows the technology’s introduction on Volvo Cars’ fully electric cars.

This means that the company’s full portfolio can now receive an update of the car’s complete operating system over the air.

Volvo owners will get an upgrade of their infotainment system to the latest version of Android Automotive OS, Android 11.

They will also get access to new app categories on the Google Play, including navigation, charging and parking, while video streaming is expected to be added later in the year.

Furthermore, the latest OTA update brings feature improvements, ranging from better energy management through improved climate timers and updates to mobile app functionality and in-car applications.

The energy management improvements help to maintain appropriate battery during both cold and warm days, boosting driving range.

The Volvo Cars app also receives more frequent updates from the car on the charging percentage during an ongoing session.

The latest OTA update is the company’s eighth complete car update and will reach more than 190,000 Volvo cars across the globe.

This week’s release also marks the debut of OTA updates in several new markets around the globe, including India, Taiwan and New Zealand, after expansion to markets such as South Korea, Australia, Thailand and Singapore earlier in the year, taking the total volume of cars updated higher.

The company also revealed that it will offer its infotainment system with Google apps and services such as Google Assistant and Google Maps built-in across all new models, continuing the rollout of one of the best in-car infotainment platforms on the market.

Volvo Cars’ infotainment system is jointly developed with Google.


Lamborghini Urus Performante makes dynamic debut in Rome

                ROME: The Lamborghini Urus Performante made its dynamic debut with international media and dealers at Autodromo Vallelunga here last week.

In its home country, the new Performante version of the Urus Super SUV again proved its prowess on tarmac as well as dirt track, having set a new official benchmark even prior to its launch by taking the Pikes Peak record for production SUVs in a time of 10:32:064: 17 seconds ahead of the previous record holder.

Delivering increased power of 657hp, the Urus Performante sets the best weight-to-power reference in its segment with a new lightweight, aerodynamic design, chassis set-up and sporty driving dynamics with specific drive mode calibration, including the new Rally mode dedicated to the Performante version of the Urus.

The Urus Performante delivers 850Nm of torque at just 2,300 rpm, acceleration of 0-100kph in just 3.3 seconds, and a top speed of 306kph.

For the driving premier of the Urus Performante, Automobili Lamborghini returned to the Rome and Vallelunga venues where the original Urus held its dynamic debut in 2018: then, it set the benchmark for a new category of Super SUV, and heralded the delivery worldwide of more than 21,000 Urus over the next four years with over 80% of clients new to the Lamborghini brand.

At the Oct 20 dynamic launch of the Urus Performante, participating media and dealers also had their first sight of the recently-announced Urus S: the Super SUV model that replaces the original Urus.

Not only did guests compare the improved performance and characteristics of the new Urus Performante on track, but they also drove on a specially-created rally circuit demonstrating the driving fun of the super SUV and its abilities on loose surfaces.

No matter road, track or off-road, in all environments the Urus Performante runs on Pirelli tyres: P Zero for 20”, 22” and 23” wheels and a new semi-slick track-oriented P Zero Trofeo R option, developed by Pirelli in collaboration with Lamborghini especially for the characteristics of SUVs.


Carsome partners CKL Group to broaden technical education

                KUALA LUMPUR: Carsome is partnering with CKL Group to broaden technical education capabilities for students, and provide a holistic offering to car owners and buyers.

Carsome, which is Southeast Asia’s largest integrated car e-commerce platform, said the cooperation would enable the company to continue championing industry standards in after-sales service and technical education.

Carsome Co-founder and Group CEO Eric Cheng said collaboration with like minded partners allows the company to scale greater heights with less effort.

"Having CKL Group onboard is a great complement to the holistic, end-to-end used car ecosystem that Carsome is building,” said Cheng.

The collaboration includes providing after-sales service to Carsome car buyers, free car inspection to Lim Tayar’s customers, and a three-year technical education programme to Malaysian youths through Carsome Academy and School of Skills. Lim Tayar and School of Skills are the respective retail and vocational education arms under CKL Group.

 (From left) Carsome co-founder and Carsome Academy director Teoh Jiun Ee, Cheng, Lim and School of Skills chief operating officer Ken Foo at the event.

The three-year technical education programme consists three months theoretical lessons at School of Skills, nine months internship at Carsome Academy, followed by a guaranteed two-year stint with Carsome upon completion of studies.

Graduates will then be awarded the Malaysian Skills Certificate (SKM) Level 3 in Motor Vehicle Inspection, with the cost sponsored by Carsome.

The tie-up is also a part of Carsome’s effort in transforming consumers’ perception of the used car industry by helping them move forward with peace of mind, assurance and convenience.

Carsome will offer car maintenance packages redeemable at all Lim Tayar outlets to its customers, and free 175-point car inspection and valuation to Lim Tayar customers at their Subang Jaya, TTDI and Shah Alam Section 26 outlets.

Joint-managing director of CKL Group, Clement Lim, said the group supported the opportunity of bringing in industry experts to form partnerships that help CKL Group reach its destinations quicker.

"We are thrilled to be working with an industry leader like Carsome, and are confident that this meaningful partnership will bring more value to our customers,” he said.


Budget 2022 perks bring down barriers to electric car ownership

                KUALA LUMPUR: The incentives for electric vehicles (EV) are aimed at encouraging ownership of such vehicles among the people and also to support local industry players, says Datuk Seri Mohamed Azmin Ali.

The International Trade and Industry Minister said the incentives were part of an effort by the ministry and came following discussions with the Finance Ministry.

"Based on the discussions, the government had announced full exemptions of import duty, excise duty, as well as sales tax for electric vehicles (EVs)," he told a press conference in Parliament today.

Earlier, Finance Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz, in his Budget 2022 presentation in Parliament, said a 100% road tax exemption will also be given to EVs.

"The government sees the potential of EVs as it is energy efficient and also helps to reduce air pollution,” he said.

The government is also giving tax income exemption for individuals of up to RM2,500 on the cost of purchase, installation, rent, hire purchase as well as subscription fees for EV charging facilities.

A few fully electric cars, otherwise known as battery electric cars, are already selling in Malaysia such as Nissan LEAF, Porsche Taycan and Taycan Cross Turismo, and MINI Electric.

BMW Group Malaysia has already been taking pre-bookings for the all-electric BMW iX and iX3 which will arrive next year.

The company is also attracting consumer interest for the i4, an electric coupe.

As for Volvo, it will introduce an all-electric XC40 SUV.

Zafrul also announced that the government will extend the 100% sales tax exemption for completely knocked down (CKD) passenger vehicles and a 50% discount for completely built-up (CBU) cars, including multi-purpose vehicles (MPV) and sports utility vehicles (SUV) for six months until June 30 next year.

This year, Miti expects to attract RM200bil worth of investments, creating an estimated 114,000 jobs, added Azmin.

"Most of the foreign direct investments (FDI) are expected to come from the manufacturing sector, which is about RM140bil," he said.


Fuel prices up again

PETALING JAYA: Fuel prices continue their march upwards in November.

RON95 will be priced at RM2.31 per litre, while RON97 will retail at RM2.60 per litre.

Meanwhile, diesel will go up by 3 sen to RM2.20 per litre from RM2.17.

The new prices were announced on RTM1 on Wednesday (Nov 8) evening and will be in effect from 12.01am on Nov 9-15.


Sultan Ibrahim receives wooden Harley replica from community leader

Sultan Ibrahim posing on his life-sized Harley-Davidson superbike at Istana Pasir Pelangi in Johor Baru on Wednesday. On the left is Deva.
PETALING JAYA: Johor Ruler Sultan Ibrahim Ibni Almarhum Sultan Iskandar was presented with a wooden replica of a Harley-Davidson superbike as a token of appreciation from an Indian community leader.

The 500kg life-sized Harley-Davidson replica was carved out from solid timber wood, and was presented to Sultan Ibrahim by Indian community leader S. Deva at Istana Pasir Pelangi in Johor Baru on Wednesday (Feb 7).

Deva said the gift was specially made for Sultan Ibrahim, whom he described as a person that cares for all Johoreans irrespective of their race or religion.

"It has been my dream to present His Majesty with a Harley-Davidson wooden replica as it is well-known that he has a personal collection and I have also been invited to join his Kembara Mahkota Johor (KMJ) entourage for the past five years," said Deva.


New-look Toyota Yaris WRC ready to fight for more titles in 2021

                HELSINKI: The Toyota Gazoo Racing World Rally Team has unveiled a new look for the Toyota Yaris WRC as it prepares to add to the car’s haul of FIA World Rally Championship success during the 2021 season.

The new livery is similar to that worn by the new GR010 HYBRID for the FIA World Endurance Championship – with a design on the GR lettering indicating the strong connection between Toyota’s competition cars and road cars such as the GR Yaris, which has been developed using the knowledge gained by the team in the WRC.

Underneath this new appearance, the team will continue with the proven package of the Toyota Yaris WRC for a fifth consecutive season – the last before new technical regulations are introduced to the championship in 2022.

So far, the car has achieved 17 victories in the WRC (winning over one-third of the events it has taken part in) and 322 stage wins. After the manufacturers’ title of 2018, it has been taken to back-to-back drivers’ and co-drivers’ crowns in 2019 and 2020. In 2021, the team’s aim is to secure the full set of championship titles.

The team continues to work to optimise the Yaris WRC, with further developments set to be introduced during 2021. The car is also now fitted with Pirelli tyres as the Italian company becomes the sole tyre supplier for the WRC’s top categories from this season.

The team enjoys strong continuity into 2021, especially with its driver line-up as all three crew members stay on for a second season. After claiming their seventh world title in 2020, Sébastien Ogier and Julien Ingrassia return alongside Elfyn Evans and Scott Martin, who finished as runners-up in their strongest season to-date. Kalle Rovanperä and Jonne Halttunen will look to build upon their promising rookie campaign, in which they finished fifth in the championship.

The season is set to begin with the classic curtain-raiser Rallye Monte-Carlo on Jan 21-24.


VW Golf GTI Clubsport 45 celebrates iconic Golf GTI

                LONDON: Volkswagen has issued a special Golf GTI to mark 45 years of the GTI badge.

Order bookings in Europe have already started for the Golf GTI Clubsport 45.

The GTI Clubsport 45 is the sixth generation of Golf to be bestowed with a special anniversary edition, and is based on the Golf GTI Clubsport – the quickest and most powerful production Golf GTI in the current eighth-generation line-up – and adds a package of upgrades for the landmark model.

The Golf GTI Clubsport 45 is priced in Germany from €47,790 (RM236,000) and £39,980 (RM227,000) in the UK.

Volkswagen has taken the Golf GTI Clubsport, with its 5.6-second sprint to 100kph, 300 PS and 400 Nm of torque, removed the speed limiter to facilitate a top speed of 267kph (where permitted), and added an Akrapovic titanium sports exhaust system to augment the car’s engine note, save weight and improve exhaust flow.

The already sporty aesthetic of the GTI Clubsport is given additional assertiveness with a set of 19-inch "Scottsdale" alloy wheels, which feature a high-gloss black finish and a Tornado Red pinstripe around the rim. The car’s special status is further marked out by "45""lettering on the side sill panels, and a metallic black finish to the door mirror covers and upper part of the spoiler.

Inside, GTI lettering appears on the backrests of the front sports seats, while the "45" emblem features in the centre spoke of the steering wheel – a constant reminder to the driver that they are driving a part of hot hatchback history.

Artvelours fabric in the door panels and a leatherette arm support add further sporting luxury to the interior of the model.

These tweaks combine to create the latest in a six-generation string of subtly tweaked but historically prominent special edition Golf GTI anniversary models, which started with the Golf GTI Mk III 20th Anniversary Edition in 1996, and continued every five years covering the Mk IV, Mk V and Mk VI Golfs in 2001, 2006 and 2011 respectively. For the Golf Mk VII, the model gained special, limited-edition Golf GTI Clubsport and Clubsport S variants for the GTI’s 40th anniversary.

Performance for this new special edition remains the same as that of the acclaimed GTI Clubsport – outputs of 300 PS and 400 Nm of torque translate into acceleration to 62 mph from standstill of 5.6 seconds. The Clubsport 45 achieves fuel economy of 6.2 l/100km on the combined WLTP test cycle, with CO2 emissions of 169 g/km.

In addition to stellar performance, the Clubsport 45 retains all of the built-in agility of the Clubsport, thanks to the model’s Vehicle Dynamics Manager working in combination with electronically controlled running gear, including an electromechanical front-axle locking differential and XDS electronic differential lock. This eliminates the understeer often associated with front-wheel drive cars. This is complemented by a larger braking system, and can be further optimised with the addition of the optional Dynamic Chassis Control (DCC) adaptive damper system.

The Golf GTI Clubsport 45, as the pinnacle of the Golf GTI range, also has a wealth of equipment included as standard, in addition to its assertive looks, entertaining drive, impressive performance and illustrious history.

The model comes equipped with such highlights as Volkswagen’s acclaimed Digital Cockpit Pro – a 10.25-inch, high resolution TFT dash display screen with customisable menus and information; IQ.Light LED Matrix headlights with different modes for diverse driving conditions and situations; Travel Assist, facilitating Level 2 semi-automated driving at speeds of up to 130 mph (where legal); the Car2X vehicle communication system, which communicates with other Car2X-equipped vehicles nearby for advance warning of hazards and other road obstacles; and the GTI Clubsport’s uniquely styled bumpers and performance rear spoiler, which in addition to their aesthetic benefits, improve aerodynamics and downforce of the car to sharpen the model’s already dynamic drive.

“The Golf GTI Clubsport 45 celebrates 45 years of the Golf GTI in style. It’s the latest in a long line of GTI anniversary special editions, and offers a greater level of dynamic engagement and agility than ever before," said Volkswagen UK (Golf product manager) Lisa Hartley.

“The Clubsport 45 is a piece of Volkswagen heritage in motion – the latest chapter in the ongoing Golf GTI story, 45 years –and counting – in the making. It is no exaggeration to call the GTI an automotive icon.”