Tesla’s autopilot, cell phone use blamed in 2018 fatal crash

The mangled Model X that resulted in the death of Huang on March 23, 2018. — AP
WASHINGTON: US crash investigators faulted Tesla Inc.’s autopilot system and the driver’s distraction by a mobile device for a fatal accident in 2018 and called on Apple Inc. and other mobile phone makers to do more to keep motorists’ attention on the road.

Tesla was heavily criticised for not doing enough to keep drivers from using its driver-assist function inappropriately. American regulators, which have guidelines but no firm rules for the emerging automated driving systems, were also attacked by the safety board.

"It’s time to stop enabling drivers in any partially automated vehicle to pretend that they have driverless cars, because they don’t have driverless cars,” National Transportation Safety Board Chairman Robert Sumwalt said.

The hearing was a searing critique of how Tesla and other carmakers have introduced new technologies that automate aspects of driving but still require constant human supervision, and of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s light-touch approach to regulating the safety of those systems.

Even though the Tesla SUV in the 2018 crash in northern California had previously veered towards a concrete barrier, the driver, an Apple employee, allowed the semi-autonomous system to essentially steer itself as it passed that same location and moved towards a highway barrier, the NTSB concluded.

The driver failed to intervene because he was distracted, likely because he was playing a game on a mobile phone provided by his company, which lacked a policy prohibiting employees from using devices while driving, the NTSB found.

The NTSB has for years issued warnings about distracted driving and its deadly toll on the roadways.

During the hearing, it called on Apple and other mobile phone manufacturers to develop protections to prevent misuse of electronic devices behind the wheel as a default setting.

The agency also urged the NHTSA to conduct a fresh evaluation of autopilot and take enforcement action if necessary if the agency finds defects.

"We urge Tesla to continue to work on improving their autopilot technology and for NHTSA to fulfill its oversight responsibility to ensure that corrective action is taken when necessary,” Sumwalt said.

The death of 38-year-old Apple engineer Walter Huang in March 2018 in Silicon Valley prompted the NTSB to issue its strongest findings to date on safety risks posed by automated driving systems and driver distraction by mobile devices.

"Limitations within the autopilot system caused the SUV to veer towards the area with a concrete barrier that it ultimately struck, which the driver didn’t attempt to stop due to distraction,” the board found.

NTSB recommended that both mobile device manufacturers such as Apple, Google and Samsung Electronics Co., as well as employers more broadly, do more to combat distracted driving.

Mobile phone manufacturers should lock out features on the devices as a default setting, rather than as an optional feature that must be activated manually, the NTSB said. Employers should adopt policies banning non-emergency mobile phone use by employees when behind the wheel.

The NTSB posted a document on Monday in its public record on the crash showing Apple didn’t have a policy on distracted driving.

"I checked around with various groups and we do not have a policy related to phone use and driving,” wrote an Apple representative in an email response to the NTSB, which was posted to the safety board’s public investigative files on Monday.

An Apple spokesman said the company expects its employees to follow the law. Tesla didn’t respond to a request for comment but has said it has updated autopilot in part to issue more frequent warnings to inattentive drivers and that its research shows drivers are safer using the system than not.

Tesla has also repeatedly stressed that drivers must pay attention while using autopilot.

The combination of growing mobile device use in semi-autonomous cars, in which drivers can take their eyes off the road for long periods, is a combustible mix, said NTSB vice chairman Bruce Landsberg.

"What this crash illustrates is not only do we have the old kind of distraction” Lansberg said. Partly-automated driving systems present "yet another kind, which is the automation complacency of the system almost kind of always works, except when it doesn’t.”

NTSB board member Jennifer Homendy criticized the NHTSA for issuing a recent statement saying it was trying to limit regulations to make cars more affordable.

"What we should not do is lower the bar on safety,” Homendy said. "That shouldn’t even be considered for an agency that has the word safety in its name.”

NHTSA said in a statement it was aware of the NTSB’s report and would review it. It also said distracted driving remains a concern and that drivers of every motor vehicle available currently on sale are required to remain in control at all times.

It is also conducting more than a dozen of its own investigations into Tesla crashes linked to its semi-autonomous system known as autopilot. Tesla is one of the leading developers of automated driving technology.

Warnings to driver

Huang’s Tesla struck the concrete highway barrier at about 113kph. His hands weren’t detected on the steering wheel for about one-third of the drive and the car twice issued automated warnings to him.

A protective barrier on the highway designed to reduce the crash impact wasn’t in place, the NTSB found.

In addition, Tesla and government agencies haven’t bothered to respond to NTSB’s recommendations related to an earlier, similar crash.

Smartphone manufacturers and software developers have taken some steps to address distracted driving. Apple’s iPhone, for example, has a feature to block text message and other notifications when driving that a user can activate in the phone’s settings.

"The challenge is that they’re all passive systems. They require you as the owner of the phone to take that action, and many won’t or don’t because they don’t have to,” said Kelly Nantel, vice president of roadway safety at the National Safety Council.

While the safety board stopped short of concluding that NHTSA’s lack of actions were part of the cause of the crash, it found that the regulator hadn’t done enough to set safety standards and called its approach to semi-automated vehicles "misguided.”

Separately, the NTSB is prepared to cite the highway-safety regulator’s actions in another fatal Tesla crash as a contributing factor.

In a March 2019 crash in Delray Beach, Florida, a Tesla drove into the side of a truck without braking, killing the driver. The conclusions of the investigation haven’t been published, but were read by Homendy during Tuesday’s meeting.


Attempt to cap speeds on Germany's autobahn sparks furore

                BERLIN: Germans regard driving at full speed on the highway as a kind of basic human right. So there was bound to be trouble after yet another call to restrict speeds on some of Europe's last limit-free roads.

This time a parliamentary mobility committee has dared to suggest slapping a blanket limit of 130kph on the autobahn highways.

The move has been prompted by concern for the environment and comes amid much talk in Germany about cutting harmful diesel and other automotive engine emissions.

The largely unrestricted highways are one of the most famous things about Germany and few issues are as controversial in this car-mad country.

On Germany's unrestricted autobahn sections, powerful Porsches and BMWs can still legally scorch down the fast lane at 300kph or more. Elsewhere, roadworks and local limits on highways near cities tend to slow down traffic, much to the annoyance of pedal-to-the-metal fans.

The committee includes figures from environmental groups, state railways, Volkswagen, the huge ADAC motoring club and a trade union. It is examining ways of meeting the German government's ambitious emission reduction targets set for 2030.

 Highway driving in Munich.

Some experts say an autobahn speed limit would make little difference to overall emissions, while police and safety organisations are largely in favour of restrictions.

As cars get more powerful, cruising speeds on the autobahn have gone up. This cuts driver reaction time and makes highway driving more hazardous.

"It generally does not turn out well if somebody is driving down the fast lane at 180kph and a car doing only 90kph swerves out in front to overtake," says deputy GdP police trade union chief Michael Mertens.

Germany's powerful VDA auto manufacturers federation dismissed a 130kph speed limit as "a purely symbolic political act" with no benefits for road safety or the environment.

"There are more suitable ways of protecting the environment than imposing a blanket speed limit on motorways," said the organisation in a statement. It proposed improving road infrastructure and road signs in order to cut fuel-wasting traffic jams.

The government has told the mobility commission to carry on looking at a possible speed limit but transport minister Andreas Scheuer has already made his stance clear.

Scheuer said imposing a blanket speed limit on the autobahn amounted to "ignoring common sense".

Highway speed limits in neighbouring countries vary from a sedate 100kph in Norway to 140kph in Poland, but Germans are quick to point out that driving fast does not mean that more accidents occur.

Official figures show drivers in Germany rack up a third of their annual mileage on highways, yet only one in eight of road deaths occurs on the autobahn.

Of the 409 people who lost their lives on German motorways in 2017, a total of 181 (around a third) were killed because one driver involved exceeded a speed limit.

Maybe the last word should go to the Frankfurter Allgemeine newspaper which published two editorials, one opposed to a speed limit and the other calling for one to be imposed.

"People have to die every year just so that a minority in powerful limousines can get their kicks," read the first pro-limit editorial.

"A blanket speed limit of 120kph on the motorway would reduce C02 emissions by just 0.27 per cent, according to figures from the Federal Highway Research Institute," commented a second writer. "A limit of 130kph would produce no reduction at all."


March 14 to 20: Fuel prices tumble for second week


Motorists drive up prices for battery metal lead

Workers dismantling batteries to obtain lead from them at ACE Green recycling Inc in Ghaziabad, on the outskirts of New Delhi. — Reuters
LONDON: A jump in demand for traditional lead-acid car batteries and lingering freight problems have created shortages that have been felt most acutely in the huge US automotive sector and driven up lead prices globally.

While other battery metals, such as lithium and cobalt, have been in demand for electric vehicles, replacement batteries for vehicles powered by internal combustion engines account for half of global demand in the 12 million tonne lead market.

The United States accounts for 13% of global lead demand, but consumption has been boosted by the end of Covid-19 lockdowns as motorists seek replacements for lead-acid batteries that have failed after long periods without use.

Prices were also boosted last week by rumours of a lead refinery declaring force majeure, analysts and traders said, though no such news subsequently emerged.

"The rumours pushed up prices, but so far there has been no substance behind it," said Wood Mackenzie analyst Farid Ahmed. "Demand for replacement batteries in the US has been white hot and also strong in Europe."

Benchmark lead hit its highest since July 2018 at US$2,344 a tonne on June 30.

Wood Mackenzie expects demand for lead for replacement car batteries to rise 5.9% from 2020 to 6.5 million tonnes this year, back to pre-pandemic levels, Ahmed said.

This jump in demand coupled with transport delays has boosted US lead premiums, which are paid top of benchmark LME prices in the physical market, to a record high of US$375 a tonne .

Robust demand and resulting shortages have also triggered draws on stocks in warehouses registered with the London Metal Exchange (LME) , the world's biggest exchange for visible lead stocks. Those stocks are down more than 40% this year at 72,250 tonnes.

In the first four months of the year, the global refined lead market was in a surplus of 19,000 tonnes, compared with 30,000 tonnes in the same period last year, data from the International Zinc and Lead Study Group showed.

Part of the reason behind shortages is tight concentrate supplies. This can be seen in treatment charges paid by miners to process concentrate into refined metal, dropping to their lowest since September 2019 at US$50 a tonne this month, according to an assessment by Asia Metals.


Grab your free GSC Shake Shake popcorn at CarSifu Auto Show

                PETALING JAYA: Local cinema chain Golden Screen Cinemas (GSC) is providing free Shake Shake Popcorn at the Oct 25-29 CarSifu Auto Show at the Mid Valley Mega Mallin Kuala Lumpur.
The first 200 visitors to the show on Oct 27, Oct 28 and Oct 29 will be treated to a regular-size bag of Shake Shake popcorn for free. First introduced on June 25, there are four flavours available: Green Tea, Kimchi, Cendol and the ever-popular Cheesy Cheese.

To enjoy the bag of flavoured popcorn, each worth RM11.50 (including GST), and depending on how adventurous you are, simply empty one or more flavour sachets into the bag which contains some ‘lite and sweet’ popcorn.

Next, fold down the top section, hold on to it securely and shake it thoroughly before allowing the palate to be delighted as the taste buds revel in one (if not all) of the four flavours.

For more flavour sachets, visit any GSC concessions stand to buy them at RM4.50 each or for greater value, a Combo pack costing RM12 will provide a regular-size bag of Shake Shake popcorn as well as a regular-size choice of drink.

“At GSC, we are constantly innovating to provide our customers with an enriching cinema experience, so that they always have something to look forward to whenever they come to watch movies with us," said Golden Screen Cinemas public relations and branding manager Sharmine Ishak.

“With Shake Shake Popcorn, it offers customers a new and unique way to enjoy their favourite popcorn in a variety of exciting and delicious flavours.”

 Sharmine holding a Shake Shake popcorn bag with the ever-popular Cheesy Cheese flavour sachet.


Land crossing between Singapore and Johor to open on Nov 29

                KOTA TINGGI: Malaysia’s land border with Singapore will reopen Nov 29 to coincide with the Vaccinated Travel Lane (VTL) between Kuala Lumpur International Airport and Changi Airport.

Johor Mentri Besar Datuk Hasni Mohammad said the decision was the result of discussions, which also decided the land crossing only covered long term pass holders.

"I have good news to share, we have had communication with the respective authorities between the Federal and state governments who have confirmed the land VTL will open on Nov 29.

"Land travel between Singapore and Johor Baru will only cover long-term pass borders, such as for those working in Singapore or those working in Johor Baru," he said in his speech during the opening of Four Points By Sheraton Desaru here today.

Recently, Malaysia and Singapore announced that they would reopen their mutual border with the VTL between Kuala Lumpur International Airport and Changi Airport.

Under the VTL, fully-vaccinated travellers would be able to travel between both countries, subject to a Covid-19 test, in lieu of serving a quarantine or Stay-Home Notice


If you can't afford the BMW M2, how about the M2-inspired bicycle?

                MUNICH: BMW has unveiled a new limited edition bicycle, the Cruise M, inspired by its latest premium sportscar and a bicycle that could become just as collectable.

The all-new M2 is a phenomenal everyday sports car and one that is expected to keep BMW's production lines busy over the coming months, such is the anticipated demand.

However, for those that can't wait for the M2 to start shipping to their country or don't have the financial flexibility to cover the car's US$53,000 (RM206,210 but RM499,000 in Malaysia) premium price tag (before options) the company on Monday wheeled out a bicycle inspired by its latest ‘M' car and one that promises to be just as exclusive, yet at a fraction of the price.

The BMW Cruise M Limited Edition bike comes in the same Long Beach metallic blue finish as its four-wheeled brethren. It also uses carbon fiber and aluminum in its construction for strength without adding weight. It even has hydraulic disc brakes front and rear. But, unlike the M2, this bike will be limited to just 1500 examples globally and each will cost just €1,400 (around RM6,200).

It might read like a simple marketing stunt, but while BMW might be better known for motorized transport — it has been building cars for 100 years and motorbikes for 93 years, — 2016 will also mark the 60th anniversary of its bicycle business.

So the bike sits on lightweight 28-inch wheels and has a 30-gear system. The frame has been shaped so that the crossbar follows the contour of a motorbike's fuel tank and each section of the aluminum frame has been welded in a way that the finished result looks like the bike has been pressed or moulded out of a single sheet of metal.

Every bike built will also arrive with a plaque detailing its limited edition status and which of the 1,500 examples it is.

Alongside the Cruise M Limited Edition, on Monday BMW also announced its full Spring 2016 bicycle collection. It has added a Small frame (160cm) option across its existing range of Cruise and Cruise e-bike models. The Cruise e-bike also gets a more potent electric assistance motor that now has a pedal-assisted top speed of 25kph.


Hyundai Mobis working on world’s first roof airbag

                SEOUL: The idea of a roof airbag is not new and has been bandied around for years.

Hyundai Mobis said last month that it is working to improve the reliability of its new roof airbag, a project it has been working on sinc 2017.

Hyundai Mobis’ roof airbag is deployed under the surface side of the vehicle in a rollover accident, covering the entire roof in just 0.08 seconds, protecting and preventing all passengers from being ejected out of the sunroof.

Since it began mass-producing its first airbags in 2002, Hyundai Mobis has continuously introduced advanced airbag technologies. Hyundai Mobis is part of the Hyundai Motor Group.

The Hyundai Mobis project has caught the eye of the US National Highway Transportation and Safety Administration which is testing the roof airbag.

As panoramic sunroofs grow more popular, regulators are starting to examine the safety implications.

According to Allied Market Research, the “global automotive panoramic sunroof industry” was worth US$1.31 billion in 2018 but would reach US$4.26 billion by 2026. The sector would post a compound annual growth rate of 15.7 percent between 2019 and 2026, according to Allied Market Research. adding that the Asia-Pacific and European regions would grow even more.

Glass sunroofs accounted for about 94 percent of the revenue in 2018, said Allied Market Research, a market research firm based in Portland, Oregon.

The New York Times in 2018 cited Wards Auto data to report that 40 percent of 2017 model year vehicles had a sunroof, compared to 33 percent for 2011.

US auto parts vendor TRW Automotive introduced its own "roof airbag" in 2011 but it wasn't to prevent sunroof injuries in a rollover.

TRW's version, mounted in the roof, replaces passenger airbags typically fitted in a car's instrument panel. The new airbag is said to help reduce passenger injuries and can allow for improved interior design aesthetics, ergonomics and functionality while saving space in the instrument panel. The Citroen C4 Cactus is using the TRW airbag.


Honda's JV with GAC ends production of Acura brand in China

                SHANGHAI: Chinese carmaker Guangzhou Automobile Group (GAC) said today its joint venture with Honda Motor is no longer producing or selling products under the Japanese firm's premium Acura brand.

GAC will continue to provide after-sales services to Acura customers in China through the joint venture's network, it said in a statement to Reuters. The joint venture will continue to produce other Honda brands.

Acura is the second foreign car brand to exit China, the world's largest auto market, in recent months.

In October GAC said it was closing its joint venture with Stellantis, which made Jeep vehicles, following a sharp decline in Jeep sales in China over the past four years.

GAC-Honda, which started producing Acura cars in 2016 in China, only sold 6,554 of them in the country in 2021, down 45% from the previous year.


Putting off toll hike to cost govt over RM2bil in 2021, says MHA

                PETALING JAYA: The postponement of toll hikes this year will extend to 20 highways and two bridges - including the SMART Tunnel - and will cost the government over RM2bil, says the Malaysian Highway Authority (MHA).

In a statement issued today, the MHA said the government would have to pay RM2.093bil to postpone hikes in toll charges this year.

"In line with the government's decision, consumers will continue to enjoy toll payments at a lower rate compared to the toll rates under the concession agreements.

"Consumers will also continue to enjoy quality facilities and services along the highways," the MHA said.

The MHA said the postponement in increases in toll fares will cover all vehicles involving the North-South Expressway (PLUS), Malaysia-Singapore Second Link, North-South Expressway Central Link (ELITE), Cheras-Kajang Highway (Grandsaga), Kuala Lumpur-Karak Highway, East Coast Expressway 1 (LPT1) and Sungai Besi Expressway (Besraya).

Other highways are Damansara-Puchong Expressway (LDP), Kemuning-Shah Alam Highway (LKSA), Butterworth-Kulim Expressway (BKE), Kajang Dispersal Link Expressway (SILK), KL-Putrajaya Expressway (MEX), Kajang-Seremban Highway (LEKAS), Senai-Desaru Expressway, Kuala Lumpur-Kuala Selangor Expressway (LATAR), Sultan Abdul Halim Mu'adzam Shah Bridge (JSAHMS) and the Seremban-Port Dickson Highway.

Also covered are the North Klang Straits Bypass (NNKSB), Duta-Ulu Kelang Expressway (DUKE), Guthrie Corridor Expressway (GCE), SMART Tunnel and SPRINT Expressway for all vehicles at the Penchala Toll Plaza, Pantai Toll Plaza (class 1 and 5 vehicles) and Damansara Toll Plaza (class 5).

The MHA added that toll charges would not increase for class 1 and 5 vehicles at the PJS2 Toll Plaza, class 5 vehicles for the Pantai Dalam and PJS5 toll plazas under the New Pantai Expressway (NPE), class 1 and 5 vehicles on the Ampang-Kuala Lumpur Elevated Highway (AKLEH) and the Butterworth Outer Ring Road (BORR), the MHA added.

As for the Penang Bridge, MHA said that postponement in a hike in toll charges will cover Class 2,3, 4, and 5 vehicles comprising private vehicles and basses.

MHA noted that this does not include the government obligation to pay RM160.1mil to defer a hike in toll charges for the Kesas Highway, South Klang Valley Expressway (SKVE) and Lebuhraya Pantai Timur 2 (LPT2).


Jardine to take Cycle Carriage Bintang private

                KUALA LUMPUR: Jardine Cycle & Carriage Ltd (JCCL), the major shareholder of Cycle Carriage Bintang Bhd (CCB) has proposed to take the car distributor private.

JCCL, which owns 59.10%, had on Monday proposed CCB undertake a selective capital reduction and repayment exercise of cash RM2.20 per share -- this is 91 sen or 70.5% above last Friday's closing price of RM1.29.

When JCCL owns 100% equity interest in CCB, it does not intend to maintain the listing status of CCB on the Main Market of Bursa Malaysia Securities.

Under the proposed SCR, entitled shareholders who hold 41.20 million CCB shares will receive total cash payment of RM90.64mil.

"The offer in relation to the proposed SCR will remain open for the board’s acceptance until 5pm on Dec 6.

“The board, save for the interested directors, will deliberate on the proposed SCR and decide on the next course of action. Accordingly, a further announcement will be made in due course after the board's deliberation, ” it said.

Trading of CCB shares was suspended.

In its rationale, JCCL cited the proposed SCR provided a good opportunity for entitled shareholders to exit and realise their holdings in CCB.

It cited the challenging operating and trading environment.

JCCL also said Jardine Matheson Holdings Ltd, the ultimate holding company of JCCL, had a long-standing relationship with Daimler AG across several countries.

"JCCL as part of the group and as the controlling shareholder of CCB is committed to continue investing in network upgrades and to operate the dealerships to the required standards.

"The capital investments required to maintain the network at the requisite standards is high with long payback periods, especially in the current challenging market condition," JCCL said.


Mercedes-Benz introduces lifestyle-oriented GLA 45 AMG

                STUTTGART: Mercedes-Benz has revealed that the new Mercedes-AMG GLA 45 4MATIC+ has been outfitted with the brand's 2.0-litre turbo engine, an engine the company claims is "currently the world's most powerful turbocharged four-cylinder manufactured for series production."

After the first generation GLA 45 AMG was introduced to the world back in 2014, Mercedes-Benz announced Wednesday that it's time to launch the second generation of the hot crossover; this time, the model is equipped with the brand's powerful four-cylinder turbo engine.

With this updated powertrain, the Mercedes-AMG GLA 45 4MATIC+ can generate 382hp of power and 481Nm of torque which is distributed to all four wheels through an 8-speed dual-clutch transmission. In 4.4 seconds, the base version of the crossover can sprint from a standstill to 100kph and continue on to a top speed of 250kph; the S-Model can reach up to 270kph.

The performance improvement has likewise been complemented by better dynamics and increased reactivity thanks in part to two electronically controlled multi-disc clutches and electromechanical controlled drive torque.

Compared with the first generation, all suspension parts have been revised to provide a more comfortable driving and riding experience that's easier to control even at high speeds. Six AMG drive programs optimise the vehicle's functionality during various weather conditions while also offering owners different levels of sport driving experiences.

On the inside, the MBUX infotainment system "creates a close, personal alliance between man and machine," and the luxurious upholsteries and trim finishes give the owner and rider a comfortable interior space that is also chic.

The 2021 Mercedes-AMG GLA 45 4MATIC+ will be unveiled to the press on March 3 at the Geneva Motor Show where it will later be on display for the public to see from March 5-15.


2017 Hyundai i30 Tourer for Geneva debut

                GENEVA: The new Hyundai i30 Tourer will be unveiled at this year’s Geneva International Motor Show.

“The New Generation i30 Tourer speaks the language of the i30 family in terms of design, and it carries the new Hyundai family identity – the Cascading Grille,” explains Thomas Bürkle, Chief Designer at Hyundai Design Centre Europe. “The tapering roofline and the dynamic proportions give the Tourer an almost coupé-like silhouette."

The Tourer is available with Hyundai’s all-new turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine, the 1.4 T-GDI delivers maximum power of 140 PS and the new three-cylinder 1.0 T-GDI that delivers maximum power of 120 PS.

The i30 Wagon offers a free floating screen for the infotainment system.

The eight-inch touch screen of the navigation system offers connectivity features such as Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and LIVE Services.

With 602 litres of space and 1,650 litres with the seats folded, it has one of the biggest boots in the segment.

The i30 offers best-in-class standard active safety with Autonomous Emergency Braking, Driver Attention Alert, High Beam Assist and Lane Keeping Assist System always on board.

Using camera sensors, the Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) fitted in the i30 operates in three stages. Initially warning the driver visually and acoustically, it controls the brake according to the collision danger stage, and applies maximum braking force to avoid a collision or minimise damage when a collision is unavoidable. The optional pedestrian recognition uses a front radar and avoids or mitigates the consequence of an impact with a pedestrian.

Driver Attention Alert (DAA) is a driver protection feature which helps monitor driving patterns in order to detect fatigued driving and prevent potential accidents.

Advanced Smart Cruise Control (ASCC) keeps a constant speed and distance from the vehicle ahead by automatically accelerating and braking up to 180 km/h. If the traffic comes to a halt, the system applies the brake until the car comes to a standstill and accelerates to the desired speed as soon as the road is clear.

The Blind Spot Detector (BSD) with Lane Change Assist monitors the rear corners and, if another vehicle is detected, a visual alert appears on the exterior mirrors.

The Rear-Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA) system reduces the risk of collision with approaching traffic when reversing out of narrow areas with low visibility by alerting the driver visually and acoustically.

The Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS) alerts the driver of unsafe movements at over 60 km/h by sensing the car’s position. It warns the driver before inducing corrective steering to guide the driver back to a safe position.

The Speed Limit Information Function (SLIF) identifies road speed signs and displays the speed limit in real time. The information is shown both in the navigation system display as well as in the TFT cluster.

A High Beam Assist (HBA) detects both oncoming vehicles and vehicles in the same lane ahead at night and changes to low-beam as appropriate, reducing blinding effects on other drivers. Whenever there are no vehicles detected HBA automatically re-activates the high beams, maximising the driver’s range of vision.


Geely launches first nine low-orbit satellites for autonomous cars

                SHANGHAI: China's Zhejiang Geely Holding Group conducted its first successful satellite launch on Wednesday, sending nine into low earth orbit as it builds out a satellite network to provide more accurate navigation for autonomous vehicles.

The self-designed and manufactured GeeSAT-1 satellites, were launched from the Xichang Satellite Launch Center in the south-western province of Sichuan. Geely said it expects another 63 to be in orbit by 2025 and eventually plans to have a constellation of 240.

With the launch, Geely becomes the second major automaker to have an allied space business.

SpaceX, owned by Tesla Inc chief executive Elon Musk, has more than 2,000 satellites in orbit for its Starlink network that offers commercial Internet services. Starlink plans to have a first-generation network of 4,408 satellites.

While SpaceX uses its own rockets to launch its satellites, Geely used a Long March 2C rocket developed and operated by a Chinese state-owned entity to launch the nine.

 Geespace CEO and chief scientist Tony Wang. The satellites were launched by Geespace, a subsidiary of the Geely group.

In addition to providing high-precision positioning support to self-driving cars, Geely said its network will also serve other commercial functions such as providing communication services at the Asian Games in September.

The satellites have an operating lifespan of five years and will disintegrate in earth's atmosphere without leaving any space debris, the company added.

China's satellite networks are dominated by its military but the government began to allow private investment in the country's space industry in 2014. Since then, commercial companies, some backed by local governments, have rushed into the sector, with the majority focusing on making satellites and the rest attempting to build small launch vehicles including reusable rockets.

In its latest five-year plan for 2021-2025, Beijing has called for an integrated network of satellites for communications, remote sensing and navigation.

China currently has more than 400 satellites deployed in space, including commercially owned satellites, according to state media.


Renault Mégane R.S. back with a vengeance

                FRANKFURT: The all-new MÉGANE R.S., is now made even more powerful with a new turbocharged engine with direct fuel injection and even gets all-wheel steering.

The four-cylinder 1.8-litre (1,798cc) unit delivers 280hp (205kW) at 6,000rpm with peak torque of 390Nm, a figure that puts it among the very best in its class.

The third-generation Megane’s 4CONTROL four-wheel steering, a global first for the segment, now affords the car’s Sport and Cup versions outstanding agility through tight turns and impressive cornering stability at higher speeds.

The Megane R.S. also gets four hydraulic compression bump stops, inspired by rally driving.

This configuration provides the Cup version of the car with optimal handling efficiency on all types of road, plus a level of comfort that is unprecedented in the car’s class for the Sport version.

Combined with entirely redesigned independent steering axis front suspension for even sharper precision, the Cup version’s new Torsen limited-slip differential improves traction and cornering speeds.

For the first time, the Megane R.S. can be specified with a choice of two types of transmission - a six-speed manual gearbox or six-speed EDC dual clutch transmission with steering wheel-mounted paddle-shift gear changes.

Customers are also treated to R.S. Monitor onboard telemetry technology which, in additional to being more user-friendly than ever, has been upgraded to incorporate an ‘Expert’ mode that allows users to connect a camera, film their drive, play back and analyse their data, and share their images on social media.

For even greater road-hugging performance and high-quality dynamics, the new Megane R.S. is wider, features wider tracks and sits on new 18- or 19-inch wheels.

A wide air intake feeds airflow to the heat-exchangers for efficient engine cooling and the rear lip spoiler has been redesigned to generate additional downforce.

Keywords
Autos Renault


Mercedes-Benz joins skateboard label to promote tricked-out AMGs

                BERLIN: Mercedes-Benz and a stylish skateboard label might seem like strange bedfellows, but the two firms have teamed up to promote streetwear and a set of four fancy AMG sports cars.

The cars are inspired by the cities of London, Los Angeles, New York and Tokyo where British skateboard maker Palace has its flagship stores.

It seems the three-pointed-star wants to mine the street credibility of the skateboard scene although only a handful of skaters will ever be able to afford an AMG which are the most expensive and sporty models in the Mercedes range.

The canvas for one of the arty cars, a Mercedes-AMG SL 63 4MATIC, costs a cool €187,097 (RM870,000) to buy in standard trim. The tricked-out version carries no official price tag.

The special AMGs are the second collaboration with the skate label which teamed up with Mercedes-Benz for a presentation as part of last year's Nürburgring 24-Hour race. A GT3 racing car with Palace-designed vehicle livery is lined up for the start.

All four AMG art cars are one-offs with a seven-layer fade paint finish, incorporating colour-changing effects.

The Mercedes AMG G 63 AMG "Space Horse Tokyo" is painted with a horse galloping on the vehicle's flank as a tribute to the fantasy culture so popular in Japan.

Meanwhile "Tiger London" sports a large head of a white tiger on the bonnet in homage "to the vibrant and diverse custom car scene in the UK in the 1960s, 1970s and 1980s."

The cars also promote a collection of trousers, hoodies, jackets and caps with the Palace touch which are said to be "stylistically oriented towards a 'motor mechanic' look."


Lexus adapts to life after quarantine

                TOKYO: With the end of lockdown on the horizon in many countries, automobile dealerships will soon be reopening their doors. But not under any conditions.

Automaker Lexus has already been communicating on the health procedures it plans to adopt to protect its customers and employees.

Everything has been thought out in advance to ensure optimal safety, starting, of course, with the provision of protective kits and equipment, such as plexiglass counter windows, hand sanitizer dispensers, masks, gloves and floor markings showing the minimum social distance of around one meter.

In new automobile showrooms, vehicles on display will be systematically locked and opened only in the presence of customers. In addition, they will also be cleaned after each new customer has left.

With regard to test drives, customers will exceptionally be left alone in the vehicle they are testing but will stay in telephone contact with sales staff, who will remain in the dealership.

Procedures have also been updated for the delivery of cars.

Keys will be handed over without contact (on a tray) and a video or telephone appointment will be organized if necessary. As for after-sales service, customers will be advised to come alone to the appointment and hand over their keys without physical contact. Their vehicles will also be "sanitised" before being returned to them.

All of these new procedures will come into force in Lexus dealerships, and in all likelihood at showrooms for other brands, as countries and regions reopen various businesses.


Did lockdowns lead to cleaner air in cities? Not really, study shows

When weather factors are taken into account, the decrease in pollution levels was less than expected. — Reuters
BERLIN: With millions more working from home and fewer people taking daily commutes in cars, you might assume pollution levels in cities dropped dramatically during the pandemic restrictions of 2020.

But new research shows the impact was far less pronounced than initially thought, and air pollution in cities around the world declined less than expected during the first widespread lockdown restrictions of early 2020.

It had previously been reported, for instance, that the NO2 level in Wuhan, the Chinese city where the virus was first detected, dropped by 93 per cent during its lockdown.

However, when weather factors are taken into account, the decrease was only 43.9 per cent and when seasonal changes were taken into account, the decrease was just 33.9 per cent.

According to the new analysis from a research team led by Zongbo Shi from the UK's University of Birmingham, the weather (and other environmental changes in the transition from winter to spring) had a significant impact on urban levels of nitrogen dioxide (NO2), ozone (O3) and particulate matter (PM2.5).

"Emission changes associated with the early-2020 Covid-19 lockdown restrictions led to complex and substantial changes in air pollutant levels, but the changes are smaller than expected," the researchers write.

The finding held true across Asia (Beijing, Wuhan, Delhi), Europe (London, Berlin, Milan, Rome, Paris, Madrid) and North America (New York, Los Angeles), according to the researchers, who published their findings in the Science Advances journal in January.

The researchers found no clear trend in the data on particulate matter (PM2.5), but clear differences from city to city. In London and Paris, particulate matter, which is produced by exhaust fumes among other places, actually increased after the start of the lockdown.

On the other hand, according to the new data, the increase in ozone levels due to the lockdown is no longer as high as previously indicated.

For example, a 57.8 per cent increase in ozone levels was measured for Berlin during the lockdown. If the weather influence is excluded, this increase is only 29.9 per cent, and if the seasonal influence is excluded, only 2.6 per cent.

As a result, the higher ozone levels during the lockdown in spring 2020 were mainly due to the weather and the change of season.

Because reactions with NO2 cause ozone to deplete, lower NO2 levels during the lockdown also led to higher ozone levels. Solar radiation causes the formation of ozone, which is why ozone levels rise as the days get longer in spring.

The researchers stress that each city should develop its own systematic measures to mitigate pollution - notably NO2, O3 and particulate matter.

"Weather changes can mask the changes in emissions on air quality," the researchers write, which is why his team used machine learning to remove the influence of weather from the measured data on air quality.

Using measured data and associated weather data from 2016 to 2019, the computer model learned to factor out the effects caused by the weather.

Furthermore, the researchers calculated the influence of seasonal changes. In spring, for example, fewer pollutants and dirt particles are produced by heating, but more pollen, spores and other organic substances are on the move. After taking these influencing factors into account, the decrease in NO2 during the restrictions in particular was lower than in previous studies.


New BMW and MINI 4S centre opens in Setia Alam

                SETIA ALAM: A new 107,500 square feet BMW and MINI 4S (Sales, Service, Spare Parts and Systems) four-storey facility, operated by Wheelcorp Premium, will service the Setia Alam and Klang area with a market potential of delivering up to 500 vehicle annually.

Wheelcorp Premium employs 50 employees to operate the facility located at 1, Jalan Setia Murni AH, U13/AH, Setia Alam, Seksyen U13, 40170 Shah Alam, Selangor and has a showroom floor for 12 BMW and four MINI vehicles along with their respective lifestyle collections.

Also at the base of the building is a 13,000 square feet workshop area for 15 service bays, while the upper levels contain the pre-owned BMW Premium Selection business with up to 30 cars on display, the BMW Isetta bar café and customer waiting area.

Additionally, there’s also a BMW M Performance display area and a BMW M Performance parts and accessories area and a stock holding area that’s able to store more than 80 cars.

Lastly, third floor has a 22,000 square-foot area for the body and paint repair as well as a paint shop area.

 From left: Wheelcorp Premium managing director Michael Liew, Wheelcorp Premium dealer principal Jayden Liew and Harris.

“In 2012, BMW Group Malaysia together with Wheelcorp Premium established a new BMW 4S dealership in Setia Alam with a promise to set up an even larger facility here in the years to come,” said BMW Group Malaysia managing director and CEO Alan Harris.

“We are pleased to deliver this promise as we open the doors to the new Wheelcorp Premium BMW and MINI 4S dealership here."

For more information, call BMW Voice at 1800 88 3000, or log on to www.bmw.com.my.


Latest tech delivers near-sunlight lighting in new Volvo EX90

                GOTHENBURG: Here's something few people know about the upcoming Volvo EX90.

Volvo has illuminated the SUV's interior with near-sunlight delivered through an array of 72 SunLike LEDs.

Volvo said its designers set out to enhance the connection with nature, both day and night through interior lighting that is as close to nature as possible.

The SunLike LEDs fit the bill and complemented the panoramic roof and open cabin.

According to the Swedish automaker, the new, non-flickering lighting addition enables a more natural colour expression beyond what’s achievable with LEDs used today in the automotive industry – delivering low light reflection and a high colour index that expresses natural colours just as they are seen in nature.

“By utilising the spectrum of light emitted from the SunLike LEDs, the progressive materials and interior design of the Volvo EX90 stand out more clearly and without colour distortion,” says Dan Fidgett, Head of Colour and Materials at Volvo Cars.

“Complementing our wood deco and other natural materials inside the cabin, the lights are central to our Scandinavian design language.”

While SunLike lights are already used to bring natural light to interior spaces in residential places, hospitals, schools, museums and horticultural applications, the Volvo Car Group is the first to introduce the LEDs to production vehicles with the EX90 and Polestar 3.

All non-decorative lights in the EX90 interior – whether placed on the ceiling, floor, door pocket or boot – come with SunLike LEDs as standard.

“The wellbeing of our customers is always a main focus for interior design at Volvo Cars. Bringing in SunLike LEDs to the interior of the Volvo EX90 is another illustration of our ambition to bring in innovative technology to deliver a renewed premium in-car experience for our customers,” said Fidgett.

On top of magnifying the aesthetics of a car cabin, SunLike lights also provide natural comfort to all occupants of the EX90. The suppression of blue-light, in combination with non-flickering light emitting from cabin luminaires, can help reduce eyestrain and headaches associated with such exposure, said Volvo.


Kia launches hybrid variant of K8 sedan

                SEOUL: Kia Corp today launched the hybrid version of the K8 sedan in the domestic market, completing a four-model lineup for the vehicle.

The K8 hybrid comes with a 1.6-litre petrol turbo hybrid engine, adding to the lineup of 2.5-litre petrol, 3.5-litre petrol and 3.5-litre liquefied petroleum injection engine models released last month, according to report by Yonhap news agency.

The hybrid model is priced at 36.98-42.87 million won (up to RM157,000) depending on options, the automaker said.

Kia said it plans to launch the new model in overseas markets in the second half of this year.

It added that the K8 is a successor of the K7, better known as Cadenza in the United States, which has sold over 500,000 units globally since its launch in 2009.

The K8 is the first model under its new brand logo as the company changed its corporate name from Kia Motors to Kia in January for its transition to becoming a mobility solution provider.


New Bosch horn promises superior performance

                PETALING JAYA: Bosch has announced the sale of the new Bosch H3F Digital Fanfare Horn at Bosch Autoparts Official Store on the Shopee and Lazada e-commerce sites.

For a limited time only, the horn will be offered at RM89.90 per set

What's so good about the Bosch horn?

According to Bosch, the H3F uses up to 30% less power than conventional horns, meaning less strain on the battery and less electromagnetic interference, making it suitable for modern cars with their complex Electronic Control Units and navigation systems.

The H3F uses an innovative microchip technology for enhanced sound quality.

Bosch claims it will lasts up to 10 times longer than conventional mechanical horns. In addition, it's corrosion-resistant and guaranteed to exhibit stable sound properties and performance even with long continuous honking.

Bosch was the first company to file a patent worldwide for automotive horns, andf they have become staple car part in vehicles by many world-renowned vehicle manufacturers today.


MAN to unveil new tipper truck

                KUALA LUMPUR: MAN Truck and Bus (M) Sdn Bhd will be unveiling of one of its most robust TGS trucks at the Malaysia International Bus, Truck and Components Expo 2015.

The event will be held at the Malaysia International Exhibition and Convention Centre at the Mines Resort, Seri Kembangan from May 14 to 16.

MAN will be introducing the TGS 41.480 8X4 rear tipper truck which is specially designed for usage in rough off-road conditions to transport ore and seams from open-cast mines.

This latest addition to the Malaysian market is the answer to businesses in the mining industry, geared for demanding heavy-duty transportation while delivering high payload and outstanding economy.

MAN Truck and Bus (M) Sdn Bhd managing director Hartmut Mueller said: “With the challenging economic climate and highly competitive environment, many businesses are concerned with the rising cost of operations. Fleet owners are now looking for solutions to reduce their vehicle running costs. In the MIBTC (expo), we hope to address this by showcasing comprehensive service programmes aimed at optimising the performance of customer vehicles in order to reduce their Total Cost of Ownership (TCO).”

He said that TCO covers key cost factors of owning the vehicle throughout its life-cycle, and that fuel can take up as much as 30% of the TCO.

By reducing fuel consumption and achieving efficient driving, fleet owners can reduce their TCO.

Efficient driving can be achieved with optimised truck configuration and intensive driver training such as MAN’s ProfiDrive® Training programme.

Visitors to MAN’s booth at the MIBTC will get to learn more about ProfiDrive Training and how this can help get them up to 10% reduction in fuel consumption alone through better vehicle handling and economical driving techniques.

Mueller said: “For years, MAN vehicles are distinguished by their robustness, reliability, comfort and value for money.

“This year is particularly significant for us as we are celebrating MAN 100th anniversary in commercial vehicle construction.”


German court allows Tesla to partially clear forest for new factory

A view of the Tesla plant site outside Berlin earlier this month. — Reuters
BERLIN/FRANKFURT: A German court on Friday ruled Tesla could partially proceed with clearing a forest to build a manufacturing site near Berlin.

Environmentalists had gone to court in the eastern city of Frankfurt an der Oder in an attempt to stop Tesla from clearing the forest, arguing that cutting down more trees could endanger hibernating reptiles.

A temporary halt in clearing had been in force while a regional court studied the matter.

In Friday’s ruling, the Berlin-Brandenburg Higher Administrative Court said it would ban clearing by Tesla in peripheral areas of the site, ruling in favour of environmentalists.

But the court said the stoppage for the rest of the area could not be justified.

Tesla in Europe and the environmental groups did not immediately respond to a request for comment outside of normal business hours.


Yamaha MT-09 enters, priced at RM48K

                PETALING JAYA: Fans of spirited riding would have to thank Hong Leong Yamaha Motor Sdn Bhd (HLYM) for upping its game here by bringing in the new MT-09, a beast of a bike that is already quite awesome as it is. It unwrapped on Jan 13 the new MT-09, which was launched in Europe last year.

“The arrival of the new MT-09 marks another significant milestone for Yamaha towards its aspirations of becoming the desired lifestyle and recreation motor vehicle brand,” said HLYM managing director Datuk Jim Khor.

He added that the new bike is the “ultimate street fighter” inspired by the flagship MT-10 Hyper Naked model.

While the 847cc engine remains unchanged from its previous version, the latest MT-09 sports a few features that will endear itself to aggressive riders. First and foremost is the quick shift system, which allows one to downshift rapidly like professionals. The slipper clutch system claims to deliver a 20% lighter clutch lever action, while keeping the pesky back-torque from interfering with ride safety when one has to downshift aggressively, such as when encountering many bends.

Safety is also taken care of by the pairing between the ABS and the traction control system, while ride-ability of this machine is also switchable between the “mild” and “aggressive” modes, a feature that changes how the engine responds to throttle input.

Other things that boost its street cred as fully adjustable 41mm front forks, which allows one to adjust the amount of damping. The left fork leg allows for compression damping to be tweaked, while the right leg allows one to tune the rebound damping.

Another pleasant surprise is the inclusion of the swingarm-mounted license plate holder, which allows designers to create a sleek looking rear end with the LED tail lamp. The plate holder is secured to the bike through a single-sided aluminum stay, lending to the bike’s overall aggressive look. All of these come at a price of RM47,388, including GST, and deliveries to customers will begin February.

For those who are looking to buy a maxi or mid-sized scooter, HLYM also confirmed that it will be bringing in the 2018 X-Max 250 scooter in the first quarter of this year. Pricing for this single-cylinder scooter is not available yet as the matter is still awaiting regulatory approval.

 Other things that boost its street cred as fully adjustable 41mm front forks, which allows one to adjust the amount of compression and rebound damping.


2017 Tokyo Motor Show: Mazda KAI Concept + Skyactiv-X  a head-turner

                TOKYO: The Mazda KAI Concept compact hatchback has made its global debut at the Tokyo Motor Show, combining breakthrough Mazda technologies and head-turning KODO design.

The groundbreaking part is the next-generation Skyactiv-X petrol engine mated with an advanced Skyactiv-Vehicle Architecture platform, the latest iteration of Mazda’s human-centered development philosophy.

Styling is characterised by clean, honed beauty free of extraneous elements, creating a strong and solid image. Mazda’s design aims to embody Japanese aesthetics, condensing them into the KAI Concept’s compact, ideal hatchback.

People around the world love hatchbacks for the great value they offer, including features such as highly practical packaging. Mazda set its sights on bringing the brand’s unique value to the universal presence and tradition of the hatchback.

Specifically, Mazda decided to take on a new hatchback challenge through the application of evolved KODO design. The goal was to create an alluring hatchback.

As per Mazda's modus operandi, the interior is designed to provide a connection between driver and car according to a “less is more” template.


Developers offer mobility services to lure car-free renters

                PHOENIX: Rising from a 17-acre lot outside Phoenix, Arizona, Culdesac Tempe is billed as the first and only zero-driving community built from scratch in the US.: Its future residents are contractually forbidden from parking a vehicle within a quarter-mile radius of the site.

They’ll have to rely on other modes, including a bundle of discounted mobility services provided for in their monthly rent, according to project leaders.

The us$170 million residential development will feature a plaza with scooter docks, car-share parking, and ride-hail pickup zones, with a light rail station across the street. When the first units open in July 2022, residents are set to receive complimentary access to a Lyft Pink subscription, preferred pricing for a fleet of Bird scooters, an Envoy car share membership, and free unlimited passes on the Valley Metro transit system.

“We’re finding that most people moving in are not planning to keep their cars,” said Lavanya Sunder, general manager at Culdesac Tempe.

“They don't have a car now or are planning on selling it, partly because we will have this multitude of mobility options onsite.”

Sunder said this marks one of the first times a Us real estate developer has included paid transportation options as part of the monthly rent, which starts at US$1,090 (RM4,530) for a studio and US$1,250 (RM5,194)for a one-bedroom.

When completed, the complex is set to include 761 apartment units as well as a grocery store, restaurant, cafe and co-working space, carving out a pocket of walkable, car-free living into a corner of one of America’s most autocentric metropolises.

The project has drawn intrigue, scepticism and praise since it was announced in 2019.

Urbanists have lauded Culdesac as a model for retrofitting suburban sprawl for a post-car era, while doubters have wondered if its residents will struggle to access the larger Phoenix area without their own cars.

There are also more global headwinds: Fears of Covid-19 infection have sustained drop-offs in transit ridership and driven up vehicle purchases in the US, while a recent Pew survey found a powerful partisan divide in the desire for walkable communities.

Yet people seem to want what Culdesac is selling. With 260 units slated to open between summer 2022 and spring 2023, 33 leases have been signed and about 300 people have put down US$100 (RM416) to remain on the waiting list, Sunder said.

Recent expansions by employers such as Peloton, DoorDash, and ZipRecuiter within Tempe seem to be driving some of the demand, as well as the pandemic’s rise in remote work.

While banning on-site parking marks a new level of ambition around the creation of car-free neighborhoods, Culdesac follows decades of planning philosophy and real-world examples, not including the millennia of city-building that preceded the automobile.

In recent years, cities like Portland, Boston, and Washington, D.C., have seen new housing go up without added parking (a rebuttal of development norms that require minimum number of residential parking spots), while the tenets of New Urbanism have given rise to countless mixed-use complexes wrapped around transit.

With transportation now accounting for the majority of US greenhouse gases, research has shown that housing that puts people closer to their daily activities and reduces their need to drive can be a significant driver of emissions reductions.

Affordable housing advocates stress that removing the expense of building mandatory parking facilities can help bring down the costs of new apartment construction and ease the national shortfall in lower-cost units.

Culdesac has raised US$17 million in venture capital to date, Sunder said, and is crafting plans for a larger project while the Tempe neighbourhood takes shape through partnerships with a number of traditional developers.

Paul Angelone, a senior director at the Urban Land Institute, said that the company can also serve as proof that other developers can get the backing needed to take the risk of breaking a century-long car-centric development model.

“It’s important to show that there are folks who finance this kind of development and support it, and that even a place like Phoenix can do it,” he said. “That can encourage others to do more of it going forward.”


Traffic offenders play hide and seek

                KUALA LUMPUR: More people are taking emergency or medical leave this week, although the cause is unlikely to be connected with any illness.

In fact, the police are saying that employees who made “disappearing” acts by calling in sick or pleading domestic distress were trying to avoid being arrested at work during Ops Warta crackdown, an operation which began yesterday

On a nationwide basis, 251 people have been arrested, while another 239 have presented themselves at the various police stations.

“During our operations today (May 19), the offenders knew we were coming. Most of them were on emergency or medical leave when we visited their work places,” said Bukit Aman traffic chief Senior Asst Comm Datuk Mohd Fuad Abdul Latiff.

 A traffic policeman checking a motorcyclist’s licence for any summonses during an ‘Ops Warta’ roadblock.

“Let me tell you one thing, you can hide from us but you can’t run forever.”

He added that police expected a list of excuses from the offenders.

“We have been broadcasting this for two weeks, but some have taken this time to disappear. I advise them to come forward as we will continue to find them one by one,” said SAC Mohd Fuad.

Malaysians prefer to ignore or evade traffic summonses, as only 38,000 or a mere 3% of the 1.59 million summonses were settled, he added.

Johor leads in terms of arrests, with 50, followed by Sarawak (39), Selangor (37), Penang (36), Malacca (24) and Sabah (3).

“Although Ops Warta started today (Tuesday), we still encourage the offenders to come forward and settle their summonses,” he said.

According to Selangor traffic police chief Deputy Supt Azmi Mansor, even employers are in cahoots with the guilty.

We had one case in Shah Alam, where we visited the office of a man who had 60 summonses totalling RM18,000. We knew he was in the office, but his boss told us he was on MC,” said DSP Azmi, who added that 161 officers were mobilised at 15 roadblocks for the first day of Ops Warta in Selangor.

Speaking to reporters at a roadblock along the Guthrie Corridor Expressway, DSP Azmi said seven motorists were arrested on the spot after they were found to have outstanding summonses.

Shah Alam traffic chief DSP Goh Lee Shen estimated that 4,256 people in his district could be arrested under Ops Warta, which is expected to continue until May 31.

In Johor, a driver in his 30s with 36 summonses was finally arrested. But there are 150,000 traffic offenders still roaming free nationwide.


Proton X70 SUV attracts 10,000 bookings, 2,000 from online channel

                KUALA LUMPUR: Proton announced today it has received over 10,000 bookings for the X70 SUV during the official launch of Ming Heng Motor Sdn Bhd, a new 4S dealer in Setapak.

Note that not all bookings will translate to actual sales as the figure is merely an indicator of public interest and a guide for a car maker to plan production.

The company also confirmed that it exceeded its 3S/4S outlet submission approval target of 109 and that more applications to open such outlets were still being received.

The X70 was made available for pre-launch bookings from 8 September. Proton opened online bookings from Oct 17. Of the 10,000 bookings, nearly 2,000 were made online.

"Despite our need to control the flow of information prior to its launch, the response has been encouraging as we have received over 10,000 bookings with those placed online via our booking platform exceeding our expectations," said Proton CEO Dr Li Chunrong.

"We were unsure how customers would react to this new method to book a car but its success points to how cars might be sold in the future."

On its 3S/4S outlet goal, Proton has to date approved 113 outlet submissions, accounting for a 104% achievement against the set target.

Proton's latest 4S dealership, Ming Heng Motor Sdn Bhd, is located along Jalan Genting-Klang here, and it has a built-up area of 3,074 square metres. Built at a cost of RM6mil, facilities and amenities include 14 work bays with 12 service hoists, a customer lounge, coffee area, free Wi-Fi, kids’ play area, laptop and mobile charging facilities as well as prayer rooms.

The body and paint shop will be operational by December.

“The decision to apply for a dealership was made because Ming Heng is confident of the potential the Proton brand has for the future,” said Ming Heng Motor CEO Eric Lee.


Driver of SUV arrested for going against traffic, driving under influence of drugs

                KUALA LUMPUR: A man has been arrested for allegedly driving against traffic and crashing his SUV into another vehicle in Jalan Klang Lama on Friday.

Kuala Lumpur Traffic Investigation and Enforcement Department chief ACP Zulkefly Yahya said the 35-year-old suspect was arrested when he turned up at the Jalan Bandar police station on Saturday afternoon.

"After receiving a report on the incident which went viral on social media, police summoned both drivers to the police station to lodge a report. Both showed up at the Jalan Bandar police station," he said when contacted.

He said the driver of the Volvo SUV tested positive for drugs, adding that the case was being investigated under Section 42 (1) of the Road Transport Act 1987 for dangerous driving and also under the Dangerous Drugs Act for drug abuse.

He said an application would be made tomorrow to remand the driver for further investigation.

"This case will be referred to the public prosecutor as soon as possible," he said.


UMW Toyota Motor releases video in conjunction with Merdeka and National Day celebrations

                SHAH ALAM: UMW Toyota Motor Sdn Bhd (UMWT) released a heartwarming short video in celebration of Merdeka and Malaysia Day.

Entitled ‘Pewaris Harapan Negara’, the video captures the passion Malaysians have for making a positive impact, which UMW Toyota shares through its commitment to engineer happiness for all.

The video features the children of UMW Toyota staff members who represent the future generation singing the timeless patriotic song, ‘Sejahtera Malaysia’, as well as ordinary Malaysians doing extraordinary things for the society.

UMW Toyota Motor president Ravindran K said the video is the company's tribute to Malaysia and its people who are full of passion and positivity.

“It is dedicated to all Malaysians who love what they do, and do what they love, resulting in progress for all.

“We are proud to have grown with the nation over the years and to serve the rakyat with products
and services that keep them moving while offering ultimate ease of mind.

“We wish all Malaysians a Happy National Day and Happy Malaysia Day,” he added.

To celebrate Merdeka and Malaysia Day and showcase the freedom and flexibility that Malaysians can expect throughout their Toyota ownership journey, UMW Toyota will be offering great deals and savings at all showrooms nationwide on Sept 10 and 11.

Aspiring owners can spend the weekend test driving Toyota models such as the Vios, Yaris, Corolla
Cross, and many more to find the best wheels to complement their lifestyle and walk away with free gifts, while stocks last.

Customers can also experience first-hand how Toyota goes the “Extra Mile” to offer comprehensive sales and after sales services that reimagines car ownership.

Enjoy aftersales service promotions from Aug 22 to Sept 30, including a special tyre offer from RM165, 15% of selected parts, and RM50 e-voucher for every Toyota Service Savers purchase.

Apart from providing Toyota Quality Experience to vehicle owners at every point of contact, aspiring owners can expect the best financial insurance packages, Loyal-T programme, Toyota 24Seven roadside assist and top-notch quality servicing with genuine parts so they can focus on the thrill of the drive and journey.

For details, visit toyota.com.my or call the Toyota freephone line 1- 800-8-TOYOTA (869682).


Will car vending machine upend used car sales?

                HOUSTON: If brick-and-mortar stores fear Amazon and e-commerce as a threat to their existence, used car dealers may be terrified by the newest development in their industry: a car vending machine.

Yes, it's real. And no, you can't shake it to get a free one.

Online used car retailer Carvana opened its newest "vending machine" last week in Houston, where the gleaming, glass-encased structure sits right off a busy freeway.

The eight-storey automated garage - three levels higher than the first version which debuted in Nashville a year ago - holds 30 cars.

It dispenses used vehicles in four delivery bays, but only to customers who have the special coin to make it work - which they receive after completing an online purchase.

This is a marketing gimmick, of course.

But the company believes it could prove a valuable part of the strategy to win customers over by completely overhauling the dreaded process of buying a used car, something notoriously difficult and plagued by the fear of sales people taking advantage of prospective buyers.

"Our view of what we are trying to do is make the experience a high quality one that customers love," said Carvana co-founder and CEO Ernie Garcia. The goal, he said, is "to make car buying fun."

He said the founders did not start out planning to be an online site, but aimed to rethink the car buying transaction from start to finish and find ways to "differentiate economically, through the entire pipeline."

The first step was to take a page out of Amazon's book and get rid of dealerships, which Garcia says adds US$400 to the price of a car. Another US$1,400 goes to pay sales personnel.

Carvana, which launched in 2013 and is now in 21 markets after adding 12 this year, stores its cars far outside cities in areas where rent is cheap.

The company says this year it saved customers more than US$1,400 on average on purchase prices compared to the Kelley Blue Book suggested price, the industry standard.

The typical concern for customers buying a used car is whether they can trust that the vehicle is safe and reliable, and whether they are paying too much.

And even in the best of cases, the process can take several hours of paperwork to complete a purchase through a traditional dealer.

Carvana offers online comparison shopping, refurbished vehicles, financing options and trade-ins all on its web portal, and Garcia says the fastest purchase was completed in seven minutes.

The company also provides free delivery as soon as the next day, or pickup at one of the vending machines.

Delivery costs US$150, so Garcia says the vending machine is another way for Carvana to trim costs.

However, as part of the new service they are offering US$200 to buyers who prefer to fly to Houston to pick up from the vending machine, and transportation from the airport.

The company also offers a seven-day test drive period, which allows customers the possibility of a full refund.

"There is a lot of evidence that an easy-to-use return policy is a way to improve the car-buying experience," said Garcia, who compared the policy to online shoe retailer Zappos, which overcame scepticism about buying shoes without trying them on with its painless return policy.

He said about half of the customers who return cars switch to another vehicle.

"It's very clear from the customer response that what we're doing works," Garcia said.

Carvana's revenues more than doubled this year to US$350 million from US$150 million in 2015, and just US$40 million in 2014. The first year of operation saw just US$4 million in business.

And the firm this summer raised another US$160 million in funding, bringing the total to US$460 million.

Carvana is not the first company to try to rethink the used car buying experience. There are many other online options, and CarMax became a big disrupter with its no-haggle pricing, easy trade-ins and reputation for straight-dealing.

But CarMax also uses traditional dealerships, frequently in areas where other car dealers are located.

Could the vending machine upend the sales model and make CarMax go the way of Blockbuster? The once-ubiquitous video rental stores collapsed quickly after the arrival of DVD delivery service Netflix and online streaming.

Garcia declined to say. Nor would he provide details on sales at the Nashville vending machine, except to comment that "the response we have seen has been overwhelming." As a result, the company is looking to add more.

"We're trying to expand as quickly as we responsibly can," he said. "We're looking to build out more."

News reports say the company was trying to acquire land near Richmond for another machine, but withdrew the application after locals raised concern about the amount of light from the building.


GoCar rolls out Hari Raya promo

                PETALING JAYA: In conjunction with the upcoming Raya holidays, GoCar Garage is holding a
campaign on Shopee for those planning to Balik Kampung to get their vehicles serviced while enjoying some great savings.

The GoCar Garage Shopee Raya campaign, which runs from until May 5 applies to the pit-stop engine oil change.

A range of promotional offers is available including limited-time 50% discounts and the chance to grab buy one, free one deals on selected packages.

All promotional prices are inclusive of labour, oil filter, drain washer, and a free 36-point vehicle inspection. Customers can choose from one of three engine oil packages available – mineral, semi-synthetic and fully synthetic.

GoCar Garage is using only 4-litre premium Elf branded oil for this campaign.

All offers come in the form of e-vouchers that can be purchased at the GoCar Garage store on Shopee for redemption through the GoCar App.

While their vehicles are in the workshop, customers can also request for GoCar Garage technicians to conduct other maintenance work besides the basic service.

GoCar Garage offers a range of services with OEM-level service excellence and technicians are trained to work on any passenger vehicle make and model.

GoCar Malaysia CEO Wong Hoe Mun said many people would certainly be planning for road trips, whether to balik kampung or for a short holiday this Raya.

“We hope that by making the GoCar Garage Raya campaign available on Shopee, more people will be able to enjoy more savings while keeping safe on the roads after getting their cars serviced with us,” he said.

Throughout the campaign period, customers will enjoy a 15% promotional price reduction across all engine oil packages.

They will also receive an RM38 cash voucher redeemable on their next service.

On top of that, those who spend RM100 or more on a single invoice will enjoy an additional RM10 rebate voucher. Customers can combine two purchases to make a total of RM100 to enjoy this rebate.

The GoCar Garage Shopee Raya Campaign is valid within Klang Valley only and vehicles will be serviced at the GoCar Garage Service Centre in Petaling Jaya.

For more convenience, customers can arrange for the GoCar Valet pick-up and drop-off service via the app so they don’t have to take time off work or leave their homes.

A minimal fee of up to RM20 applies, depending on the distance.

Customers who need a vehicle while their cars are in service can also enjoy free usage of a GoCar for a maximum of two hours, subject to terms and conditions.

To book a GoCar Garage service appointment, download the GoCar mobile app.


Oct 21-27:  Fuel prices unchanged

KUALA LUMPUR: The retail prices of RON95 and RON97 petrol, and diesel will remain unchanged as previously until Oct 27, says the Finance Ministry.
In a statement today, the ministry said the retail price of RON95 would stay at RM2.05 per litre, RON97 at RM2.87 and diesel at RM2.15 for the next seven days.

Prices are set based on the weekly retail prices of petroleum products using the Automatic Pricing Mechanism.

"To protect consumers from the effects of actual increase in oil prices on the global market, the government has maintained the retail price of RON95 at the ceiling price of RM2.05 per litre and diesel at RM2.15 per litre, although the actual market prices for both products have exceeded the set ceiling prices,” it said.


Renault ZOE is best-selling electric car in Europe

                PARIS: The Renault ZOE is the best-selling electric car in Europe, with growth of nearly 50% to 37,540 units in the first half of 2020 and a record level of orders at 11,000 units in June.

A Bloomberg report said the ZOE outsold the Tesla Model 3, Volkswagen electric Golf and Nissan LEAF.

Renault has sold more than 300,000 electric vehicles across Europe as it continues to demonstrate its leadership in all-electric models.

Renault’s Z.E. range now consists of five different models across both passenger and commercial vehicles including the ZOE and the ZOE van.

The first Renault electric vehicle was launched in 2010, with continuous sales growth year-on-year, with over 100,000 ZOE models sold in France alone.

Originally launched in 2012, the third-generation ZOE arrived in early 2020 and features increased power and range, enhanced exterior and interior design and a host of new technologies.

The updated exterior design continues to deliver a distinctive design while the interior features premium materials and finishes throughout for added comfort.

It features a new 100kW R135 electric motor and new 52kWh battery, providing enhanced acceleration along with up to 245 miles (WLTP) all-electric range on a full charge.

At the same time, a new 50kW DC charging option, will re-charge the battery from zero to 80 per cent capacity in just one hour and ten minutes.

The new ZOE is more user-friendly thanks to its revised interior featuring a fully customisable 10-inch TFT instrument cluster and availability of Renault’s EASY LINK 9.3-inch portrait touchscreen infotainment system.

A suite of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) feature on new ZOE, delivering added convenience and safety, while recycled interior materials and a refined design deliver a modern look and feel, both inside and out.


CarSifu Auto Show rife with excitement

PETALING JAYA: CarSifu's latest Auto Show 2016 is currently picking up steam with more visitors dropping in to make enquires about the latest models.“I knew about the Auto Show from The Star newspaper and decided to take a look," said Charlie, a 57 year-old businessman from Klang who visited the show with his 20-year old son, Eu Wing."My main aim was to check out the new KIA Grand Carnival and to see what my son thinks of it, since I am currently looking to add a new MPV (multi-purpose vehicle) for the family," he added.Looking at the current Peugeot 208 PURETECH hatchback were the married couple Azim and Izzati - both 29 years old and hailing from Kuala Lumpur."I brought my wife here so that she can have a look at the 208, because I think she will like it as her next upgrade over her four-year old Mitsubishi Mirage," said Azim."I think this car (208) looks good. I like the colour; the features; the simple interior and most of all the bigger boot," quipped Izzati.As for 23 year-old Skyikin from Damansara, she too is looking to upgrade from her current Perodua Kelisa that has served her well."I'm really interested in the Peugeot 2008. It seems suitable for women because it's not too small or big and the price seems right," she excitedly said.The Auto Show will be ending on Sunday and is currently being held at the Highstreet concourse area of the 1 Utama Shopping Centre.Brands such as BMW, MINI, Isuzu, KIA, Peugeot and Citroen are currently on display with Some of these cars being made available for test drives on a route around Bandar Utama.Those who book their vehicle during the show will stand a chance to win fabulous prizes worth a total of RM19,000.The auto show will also have three Sharp high definition televisions and 10 Sharp car ion generators to be won.The key prize is the Sharp Aquos 65-inch full HD television worth RM6,699 followed by the Aquos 60-inch full HD priced at RM3,999 and the Aquos 50-inch full HD costing RM2,799.The Sharp car ion generator, which is worth RM559, is designed to fit into a car’s cup holder and comes with a car power adapter.It can freshen up the cabin’s air by removing cigarette odour and other allergens for a more pleasurable drive.


Automotive sector to see double-digit growth in TIV

                PETALING JAYA: The automotive sector is expected to see a solid rebound, with total industry volume (TIV) likely to register a double-digit growth, in 2022.

As supply chain normalises and consumers take advantage of the sales tax exemption (SST), AmInvestment Bank Research (AmInvest) said the sector could see its TIV grow about 12% to 555,000 units next year from the forecast 495,000 units for 2021.

The brokerage maintained “overweight” on automotive, with Bermaz Auto Bhd (BAuto) and UMW Holdings Bhd as its top picks for the sector.

It ascribed a fair value of RM2 for BAuto and RM4.07 for UMW. “We expect TIV to continue to improve as the supply chain normalises and consumers take advantage of the SST exemption. With a high vaccination rate and the number of Covid-19 cases remain low, consumer confidence is expected to gradually improve,” AmInvest said.

It noted the cyclical sector would benefit from the economic reopening. “As businesses head towards normalisation, the reopening of the economy could benefit cyclical industries which had lost their appeal since the pandemic hit,” AmInvest said.

It noted that some of the sector’s heavyweights such as Sime Darby Bhd, UMW and BAuto were currently trading at inexpensive valuations of 12.4 times, 11.7 times, and 11.5 times forward earnings, respectively despite the improved outlook.

“The auto sector’s earnings are expected to rebound in 2022 as demand for new cars would be bolstered by the SST exemption – 100% and 50% SST exemption on locally-assembled and fully imported car models respectively – and improving consumer confidence as the economy gradually recovers,” AmInvest said. “Our base case assumption is there will be no lockdowns moving forward. We deem the national vaccination programme a success with 97.5% of adults in the country have been vaccinated as of end-December, followed by the declining trend of Covid-19 cases,” it added.

AmInvest said it expected a slew of new models to be launched in 2022, as distributors had held back their model launches due to the lockdowns in 2021.

“Among notable new models that we expect to see in 2022 are the all-new Honda Civic, Peugeot 2008, Kia Sportage and the long-awaited all-new Perodua Alza,” it said.

“The TIV also will be supported by recently launched volume models such as the Perodua Myvi facelift and Honda City Hatchback,” it added.

In addition, AmInvest said low financing rates would continue to be supportive of purchase of vehicles.

“According to our in-house projection, the overnight policy rate is expected be maintained at 1.75% at least in the first half of 2022, with the potential first rate hike of 25 basis points in the second half of 2022, more likely in the fourth quarter,” it explained.

“The low interest rates will remain conducive for consumers to obtain vehicle financing for the purchase of new passenger cars,” it said.


New BMW 4 Series starts at RM297,800

                PETALING JAYA: BMW Group Malaysia introduced the new BMW 4 Series, the premium automaker’s newest line of its premium executive coupé model range featuring the new BMW 420i Coupé, the new BMW 430i Coupé as well as the BMW 430i Gran Coupé.

The new BMW 4 Series Coupé now further sets itself apart with stylistic features that carry the promise of a powerful presence on the road, stand-out dynamic ability and driving pleasure in abundance.

The most notable change to the new BMW 4 Series, however, is in its engines. Each variant now houses the new BMW B48 engine, an all-new aluminium inline-four cylinder engine, critical to the premium automaker’s new modular engine family.

Alongside each engine is the multi-award winning BMW TwinPower Turbo technology, which teams up with an eight-speed sports automatic transmission.

The new BMW 420i Coupé is a 2.0-litre petrol engine that delivers a maximum output of 184hp with torque peaking at 270Nm; enabling the new sports coupé to sprint from 0 to 100kph in 7.5 seconds at a top speed of 236kph.

The new BMW 430i Coupé produces 252hp and a maximum torque of 350Nm. This translates into just 5.8 seconds in sprint time from 0 to 100kph at a top speed of 250kph.

Under the hood of the new BMW 430i Gran Coupé is a powerful 2.0-litre petrol engine delivering superb dynamic performance – a maximum output of 252hp with torque peaking at 350Nm and an acceleration time from 0-100kph of just 5.9 seconds.

The retail price of the new BMW 4 Series (on the road, without insurance, with BMW Group Malaysia’s latest 5 Years Unlimited Mileage Warranty, Free Scheduled Service Program and 24-month BMW Tyre Warranty Programme) is
BMW 420i Coupé - RM297,800; BMW 420i Coupé Sport - RM317,800; BMW 430i Coupé Sport - RM356,800; BMW 430i Coupé M Sport - RM386,800; BMW 430i Gran Coupé M Sport - RM416,800.

BMW Group Malaysia also took the opportunity to announce the special 100th Year Anniversary Celebrations pricing for the BMW X6. Its current retail price is RM666,800 while the 100th Year Anniversary Celebration is priced at RM628,800.


Subaru to brings S model STI to the US for the first time

The camouflaged vehicle Subaru teased for the Detroit Auto Show takes obvious inspiration from the WRX STI Type RA.
NEW YORK: Subaru last week posted a 30-second teaser video of a speedy, camouflaged STI, titled "From Japan with Love."

The camouflaged star of Subaru's new teaser doesn't leave much to the imagination apart from the exterior paint colour. Whereas most special-edition STIs don't make it to the United States, this one definitely will — and it's likely the S209, for which Subaru just filed a trademark for in the States.

The clip features the disguised car speeding around some foggy, vacant country roads. The only text overlay is at the end, and it says, "From Japan with Love" as the car speeds off in the distance.

Below, the caption reads, "Something special from Subaru Tecnica International is coming to America for the first time ever. 1/14/19 at the North American International Auto Show."

Given all this information, we know what's coming, and when it will land — in less than a month.

This will be the first "S" model to arrive in the US, albeit most likely in extremely limited numbers. Only 300 units of the S206 model were built, 400 of the S207, and 450 of the S208, which featured a 2.0-litre H4 engine capable of 329hp and 434Nm of torque.

The STI variants in the US market right now are powered by a 2.5-litre H4. The car in the video does seem to put out more speed than that, but we'll have to wait to be sure.

The Subaru WRX STI starts at US$36,595 (RM154,000) and the S208 started at US$52,963 (RM222,000) last year, only in Japan. It's difficult to predict what the final MSRP will be for the S209, but we only have a few weeks to wait to find out.


FTC revs up 'right to repair' fight with Harley-Davidson agreement

                WASHINGTON: Motorcycle maker Harley-Davidson Inc and a Westinghouse generator maker have agreed to drop some restrictions on who repairs their products, the US Federal Trade Commission said on Thursday.

The agency voted last year to make it a priority to push manufacturers to stop requiring consumers to use licensed dealers to repair items ranging from smartphones to farm equipment.

Critics say the practice raises prices for consumers and shuts out independent repair shops.

The FTC said in its complaint against Harley-Davidson, which was released at the same time as the consent agreement, that it had objected to language used by the motorcycle maker such as "the use of parts and service procedures other than Harley-Davidson approved parts and service procedures may void the limited warranty."

Under the agreement, Harley-Davidson agreed that it would not void warranties because the buyer used third-party parts or unauthorised service centres.

Outdoor generator maker MWE Investments, part of Westinghouse Electric Corp, made a similar agreement with the FTC.

Right-to-repair was part of a sweeping executive order that US President Joe Biden signed last summer aimed at promoting more competition in the economy.

The order addressed complaints as disparate as non-compete clauses in worker contracts and high prices for hearing aids.

Neither Harley-Davidson nor Westinghouse immediately responded to a request for comment.


Self-driving sector contends its cars can prevent many more crashes than insurance study says

                NEW YORK: Companies working on self-driving vehicles have criticised an insurance industry study suggesting that only a third of all US road crashes could be prevented by driverless cars, arguing that the study has underestimated the technology’s capabilities.

The study by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), released on Thursday analysed 5,000 US crashes and concluded that likely only those caused by driver perception errors and incapacitation could be prevented by self-driving cars.

The autonomous vehicle industry quickly responded that its cars were programmed to prevent a vastly higher number of potential crash causes, including more complex errors caused by drivers making inadequate or incorrect evasive manoeuvres.

Taking those design choices into account, autonomous vehicles could avoid some 72% of crashes, said Partners for Automated Vehicle Education, a consortium of self-driving technology companies.

The group in a blog post (here here) on Thursday said it was "fundamentally speculative" to determine crash avoidance rates.

Nevertheless, companies developing self-driving cars for years have touted their ability to vastly reduce crashes, with some, like General Motors Co, calling them a key part in achieving “zero crashes.”

The Alliance for Automotive Innovation, an auto industry group, in a statement said that even reducing traffic fatalities by a third would be something to be proud of, but that its members aim to do more.

Jack Weast, vice president of autonomous vehicle standards at Intel Corp’s Mobileye, in an interview on Friday said the auto industry was assembling a vast list of likely road scenarios and human behavior that every driverless car should be able to navigate safely. Government agencies and insurance companies are part of that process, Weast said.

“Crashes will never be zero until we have no more human drivers on the road,” he said. “But (self-driving cars) can combine physical laws with behavioural studies and do much more than a human driver.”


Audi bids farewell to the R8 V10 quattro with limited edition model

                WASHINGTON: To celebrate a decade of success with the storied V10 engine, Audi of America has announced the limited edition R8 V10 quattro models in Mugello Blue, Avus Silver, and Sonoma Green.

Bidding farewell to the R8 V10 quattro, these 30 units bring technologies and features previously reserved for the performance model, and add unique interior and exterior design elements.

The R8 V10 performance quattro model will continue on for the 2021 model year.

Featuring the same naturally aspirated V10 engine found in the R8 LMS racecar, quattro all-wheel drive, and a functional yet technologically advanced cabin, the R8 is considered at the leading edge of performance for Audi, with no other model bearing a closer tie to racing.

With a seven-speed S tronic dual-clutch transmission, which can shift gears in as little as 120 ms, the R8 V10 quattro achieves 562hp and 552Nm of torque, and reaches 100kph in 3.4 seconds with a top track speed of 323kph for the Coupe, or 0-100kph in 3.5 seconds with a top track speed of 321kph for the Spyder.

Previously only available for the R8 performance variants, the limited editions features a carbon fibre front sway bar, which saves 2kg of weight.

Audi magnetic ride adjusts the firmness of the dampers and included Audi dynamic steering offers a variable steering ratio that adjusts based on vehicle speed and the Audi drive select setting.

At higher driving speeds, a less direct steering ratio helps to facilitate a more stable drive, and at lower driving speeds, a more direct steering ratio is used to help increase steering response for easier maneuvering.

The sport exhaust system, also previously only available on the R8 performance variants, amplifies the full bodied sound of the V10 engine, which the driver can adjust using the dedicated satellite button on the steering wheel or via the Audi drive select setting.

The lower trim, engine compartment, and side blades are all finished in carbon fibre and the brake calipers are painted red for an even sharper look.

All variants include Audi exclusive floor mats, with piping and stitching colour-matched to the interior. The 20-inch milled wheels are finished in silver for the first time on an R8 in the US.

Sporty race features continue inside, where the driver-oriented interior features a three-spoke multifunction flat-bottom steering wheel with shift paddles and four steering wheel-mounted satellite buttons – engine Start/Stop, Audi drive select, Performance Mode selector and Sport exhaust.

As with all R8 variants, the Audi virtual cockpit and the MMI navigation plus come standard. For even further definition, the included carbon interior adds carbon fibre high-gloss surrounds for both the virtual cockpit and the air vents and carbon sigma high-gloss inlays. Coupe models also feature a diamond stitched Alcantara headliner.

The R8 model line has been around since 2006.

The limited edition R8 V10 quattro is scheduled go on sale this summer at US$186,000 for the Coupe and US$195,900 for the Spyder.


Hyundai Kona coming in Q4, booking opens

                PETALING JAYA: If you have been looking for more choices in the compact crossover segment, wait a little longer for the Hyundai Kona to hit town.

Sime Darby Auto Hyundai is accepting bookings for the vehicle, expected to launch in the last quarter of 2020. Its tentative price is around RM115,000.

The fully imported Kona takes the fight to other B-segment rivals like the Honda HR-V, Toyota C-HR and Mazda CX-3.

With Kona's arrival, Sime Darby Auto Hyundai would have a fleshed-out crossover line-up to sell as the Kona will join the Tucson and the 7-seater Santa Fe.

The Kona is Hyundai's first B-segment crossover and had its world premiere in June 2017. It's about time for a mid-cycle facelift and just last month, Hyundai previewed the updated Kona and an N Line version that expressed Hyundai’s "Sensuous Sportiness" global design identity.

The new Kona gets a wider stance and a shark-inspired nose that gives the model a sleeker look.

The Kona was first shown to Malaysians at the 2018 KL Motor Show and was supposed to launch locally in early 2019 but was delayed.

The Kona is expected to be offered in several variants although the all-electric version is unlikely at this point. Globally, Hyundai powers the conventional Kona with a choice of 2.0-litre, 1.6-litre and 1.0-litre 3-cylinder engines.

Sime Darby Auto Hyundai is offering a "special introductory package" for those who place a booking at RM288.


Track run in Ferrari F8 Tributo: Oh, what a feeling!

                You instinctively know you're in for something special when — just by looking at the Ferrari F8 Tributo all primed and ready for the track sets — your heart racing. I had anxiously put on the balaclava and helmet so I could get to the car quicker.

Soon enough, I was at the pit lane and was introduced to my instructor who would be riding shotgun with me.

First lap was with the instructor driving first and showing me the ropes. I needed the refresher course anyway since I don't hit the Sepang track as much as I would like to.

That first lap inside what Ferrari calls its most powerful V8 in Prancing Horse history, already signalled just how powerful and capable this mid-rear-mounted two-seater is.

Just to be clear, the engine behind the two seats is a 3.9 litre V8 turbo, which produces 710hp at 8,000rpm and 770Nm of torque at 3,250rpm. It does 0-100kph in 2.9 seconds with a top speed of 340kph.

Back at the pit lane after the initial lap, the instructor and I switched places.

As I was getting ready behind the wheel, I realised just how welcoming and comfortable the cockpit was with its smooth tanned leather upholstery, the wonderful touches of the carbon fibre trim, the exquisite layout of the dash, the super-sporty flat-bottomed steering wheel and beyond that on the instrument cluster, the cycloptic rpm dial staring right back at me.

Everything I touched was just so satisfying and the haptic feedback formed an immediate bond between driver and machine. On top of it, the sense of smell is titillated with the aroma the leather lets off.

I finally got a real dopamine hit of the day as I exited the pit onto the track, opened up the throttle, braked hard and turned left into turn 15 and opened up the throttle again for that exhilarating straight before heading back into turn one.

That's the advantage of starting off from the South Paddock in Sepang. You run right into turn 15, which allows you to floor it for the long straight.

The acceleration the F8 Tributo was laying down was simply breathtaking; it quickly hit the redline and before you know it, you're doing north of 270kph.

Coupled with the glorious, operatic sound of the engine right behind you is about as close to a religious experience as you can get.

And you better have the fear of God when you're at the 200-metre mark and brake like your life depended on it, otherwise you won't make it into turn one.

From here to turn 14, you're weaving in and out of the circuit negotiating slow and fast corners at various elevations, which easily showcased the handling of the F8 Tributo.

Words cannot describe how impressive this supercar is with its precision, and how confidently it hugs the turns. Look where you want to go and it takes you there with ease.

The confidence the F8 Tributo exudes is more than you can ask of a track car.

For instance, I went too fast into a turn and had to brake really late. While I was sweating it, the F8 wasn't jittery at all.

Two hot laps in and I was entering the final cool-down lap, cruising my way back to the pit and realising this was the most fun I've had on the track for awhile now.

The F8 Tributo has so much charm, style, power and pedigree and it can be yours for RM1,068,000 (excluding duty and customisation options).


Hino expelled from Toyota-led commercial vehicle partnership

                TOKYO: Toyota Motor Corp said today that Hino Motors had been expelled from a commercial vehicle partnership which the Japanese automaker leads following the truckmaker's widening scandal over falsification of engine data.

The partnership was established in April 2021 by Toyota, Hino and Isuzu Motors to facilitate technology development for commercial vehicles.

Suzuki Motor Corp and Daihatsu joined in July the same year.

Hino responded to the expulsion with an admission of wrongdoing.

"We first will acknowledge and reflect deeply upon the seriousness of the misconduct we have committed and its root causes, and correct what we should correct," it said in a statement today.

"We need to return to our origins as a commercial vehicle manufacturer that helps people and goods get where they need to go, and behave resolutely to become reborn as a company that is once again needed by society."