Mercedes-Benz Malaysia: Dream Cars Collection 2017

                Arguably the most diverse offering of pleasure rides, we took Mercedes-Benz Malaysia’s Dream Cars Collection to The Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat for an unforgettable drive.

Rolling on the momentum of yet another sales record-breaking year, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia recently presented its Dream Cars Collection 2017, billed as the most exciting and extensive range of luxury wheels in the country.

“The Dream Cars are the brand shapers of Mercedes-Benz cars. They combine power and performance, as well as the most expressive and desirable designs in the market today,” said Mercedes-Benz Malaysia vice president (sales and marketing - passenger cars) Mark Raine.

 Mercedes-Benz C 300 Cabriolet.

These include the C-Class coupe and cabriolet (three variants in each line-up with prices ranging from RM308,888 to RM443,888), as well as the SLC 200 and SLC 300 roadsters priced at RM398,888 and RM468,888 respectively.

They are all powered by 2.0-litre 4-cylinder turbocharged engines in different states of tune, with power outputs ranging from 184hp to 245hp, and torque from 300Nm to 370Nm.

Of course, the crème de la crème here are the Mercedes-AMG wheels with fire in their hearts, namely the C 63 S Coupe (priced at RM795,888 for Edition 1), the GT S (priced at RM1,125,888) and the S 63 Coupe (priced at RM1,493,888).

Both the C 63 S coupe and GT S are powered by a AMG 4.0-litre V8 twin-turbo engine rated at 510hp, tuned by the AMG in-house development from Affalterbach.

 Mercedes-AMG C 63 S coupe.

Selected members of the media were fortunate enough to sample some of the delights the Dream Cars Collection 2017 had to offer, in a day-long drive from Desa ParkCity, Kuala Lumpur to Ipoh organised by Mercedes-Benz Malaysia.

The trip to Ipoh started with a 200km and three-hour drive on a twisty and uphill route to Cameron Highlands Resort for lunch.

CarSifu and another writer were paired up in the C 63 S Coupe, which purred like a gentle kitten in the rain-soaked and heavily congested morning traffic around Damansara Damai, before rumbling eagerly to show off its racing DNA once we switched to the S+ drive mode on the North–South Expressway.

We made the most of the incredibly powerful 510hp/700Nm AMG 4.0-litre V8 twin-turbo engine, mated to an AMG Speedshift MCT seven-speed automatic gearbox.

Barrelling down the motorway in this masterpiece of Teutonic engineering was a highly exhilarating experience.

We were ensconced in an interior crafted with high-quality materials and meticulous workmanship, including AMG performance seats and an instrument panel trimmed with black Artico man-made leather.

While the C 63 S Coupe has the driving performance of a racing stallion, it also offers interior luxury fit for first-class travel.

 Mercedes-AMG GT S.

After Tapah, we switched to a C 300 cabriolet for the uphill drive on twisty roads to Tanah Rata, Cameron Highlands.

The C 300 Cabriolet is the most powerful of the C-Class convertible range here, with a 2.0-litre 4-cylinder turbocharged engine delivering 245hp and 370Nm of torque, mated to a silky smooth 9G-Tronic automatic transmission.

The soft top can be opened and closed in 20 seconds, and at speeds of up to 50kph, and we took advantage of this to enjoy the cool breeze on the roads of Cameron Highlands.

However, soon enough, we were forced to close the top due to the exhaust fumes from the lorries that we were trailing.

Still, this allowed us to better enjoy the high audio quality afforded by the car’s Frontbass system, which gives a listening experience almost on par with a concert hall – especially with the Burmester sound system.

 Mercedes-Benz C 250 Coupe.

After lunch, we took the C 200 and C 250 coupes for a quick 20km spin, to savour the tranquil atmosphere and picturesque highland scenery in Cameron Highlands.

Both the coupes certainly stood out on the road, with their athletic and sporty designs.

Later, after an afternoon tea break, we took the GT S sports car for the downhill run to Simpang Pulai and two-hour drive to The Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat in Ipoh.

This was our favourite set of wheels in the Dream Cars Collection 2017, with its combination of aluminium space frame, powerful V8 biturbo engine, seven-speed dual clutch transmission, locking differential, sports suspension with aluminium double-wishbone suspension and a low kerb weight of 1,570kg delivering racetrack performance.

Fitted with grippy Michelin Pilot Super Sport tyres sized 265/35 R19 (front) and 295/30 R20 (rear), the GT S tackled road curves and turns like a lizard stuck in glue.

The high-quality, leather-clad interior was comfortable enough for our co-driver to take a late afternoon nap as we rumbled swiftly along curvy roads, albeit slowing down regularly due to farm produce-laden lorries clogging some stretches.

Make no mistake, though, the GT S is a noisy and adrenaline-inducing beast, with a distinctive bassy exhaust note, and our co-driver remarked, “It’s like being at an F1 race!”.

 Mercedes-AMG S 63 Coupe.

After an overnight stay in Ipoh, we had the RM1.5mil S 63 Coupe for a quick run around Ipoh.

The S 63 coupe is the most muscular of the Dream Cars Collection 2017, with 585hp and 900Nm of torque from a 5.5-litre bi-turbo V8 engine mated to a AMG Speedshift MCT seven-speed sports automatic transmission.

Among the highlights here are an AMG sports suspension based on Magic Body Control with curve tilting function, which provides outstanding driving dynamics and high road comfort.

Magic Body Control compensates body roll and pitching when moving off, cornering or braking.

The curve tilting function reduces the lateral forces experienced and enhances driving pleasure, especially on winding roads.

There is also the innovative Road Surface Scan, which uses a multifunction camera located behind the windscreen, to scan the road surface ahead.

Images and on-board data are used to adjust the damping at each wheel in advance, to suit uneven surfaces ahead.

 Mercedes-Benz SLC 300.

After lunch at the Nasi Kandar Ayam Merah stall (also called Nasi Ganja) at Yong Suan coffeeshop, we departed for Kuala Lumpur in the SLC 200 sports luxury roadster.

The 2.0-litre turbocharged SLC 200 with 184hp and 300Nm of torque, provided a comfortable experience on the 200km drive back to Kuala Lumpur.

We did not use the vario-roof which can be opened when the car is on the move, up to a speed of 40kph, due to wet weather.

The Dream Cars may cost a pretty penny, but they were all worth it.


Mercedes C-Class, S-Class and EQS can spot potholes and speed bumps

                STUTTGART: Mercedes-Benz says its new C-Class, S-Class and the electric EQS are armed with the ability to detect potholes and speed bumps.

If the chassis control unit registers such an event, and the "Car-to-X Communication" service is activated, the information is sent to the Mercedes-Benz Cloud in real time via the mobile phone network, together with positional data.

Mercedes-Benz passenger cars in the vicinity are informed, and the events are displayed with icons on the navigation map. About ten seconds before the relevant lane section is reached, an audible warning is given and the icon is visually highlighted.

Mercedes-Benz passenger cars produced from 2016 onwards can receive the warning information.

In total, that's over three million vehicles worldwide. Prerequisites are a Mercedes me account as well as activation and online availability of the "Car-to-X Communication" service.

Large potholes are a safety hazard, because if drivers do not recognise them in time, they can no longer take evasive action or reduce their speed. There is also a risk of damage to tyres and the suspension system. In the worst case, accidents can happen. Mercedes-Benz is now increasing safety with the additional Car-to-X functions.

In vehicles with the added capability, warnings are given with the familiar voice output "Traffic event ahead".

In the new C-Class, S-Class and EQS, the audible warning is "Look out, pothole!" or "Attention, speed bump". The new alerts are now available in selected markets worldwide, and in all 36 languages recognised by the infotainment system.

Mercedes-Benz developed the new Car-to-X functions completely in-house. The new pothole detection system was tested at the Immendingen Test and Technology Centre, among other locations. More than 30 different test and trial tracks are available there over an area of 520 hectares, including what are known as comfort tracks with bumps and potholes of all kinds.

New-generation C-Class and S-Class models and the EQS can detect potholes when a certain threshold value is reached during sudden suspension compression and rebound, and this also occurs at the rear axle after the front axle with a certain time delay.

A similar algorithm is used to detect speed bumps: in this case detection is via the compression and rebound sequence.

Another Car-to-X function from Mercedes-Benz uses the information from Crosswind Assist: If this assistance system becomes active in the event of a strong crosswind, and supports the driver with targeted braking or steering interventions, the Mercedes-Benz Cloud is also notified. Drivers following behind can therefore be specifically warned of gusts.

Because the sensors of other cars are also used, the Car-to-X technology significantly expands the coverage of the vehicle's own sensor technology, e.g. the radar or camera systems. The Car-to-X technology allows a look around the corner, so to speak.


Time out with refreshed Honda Civic

                The new Honda Civic facelift sedan was officially launched last November in Malaysia and while this review may be long overdue, CarSifu took its time because we were interested to see how the car ages.

Review units tend to go through different hands within the local motoring media outlets and, as such, takes more of a beating than individually-owned vehicles.

It was a good opportunity then to see how the wear-and-tear affected the car on a surface-level. We left out stuff like the brakes, engine, transmission and tyres because there is just too many factors involved.

Instead, we looked at the things that everyone would notice such as the upholstery, door handles, chrome-fittings and the like.

First though, let’s refresh our memories on the facelifted Civic which comes in three variants: the entry-level 1.8S, the mid-range 2.0S and the high-spec 2.0 Navi.

There was a reduction in price when the facelift was introduced from around RM2,000 to RM4,000 between the three variants.

And after the introduction of GST in April this year, the price went down even more from around RM600 to RM1,000.

The Civic is now priced at RM113,198 (1.8S), RM124,779 (2.0S) and RM132,210 (2.0 Navi). All prices are on-the-road with insurance and inclusive of GST.

For this review, we got our hands on the top-of-the-range 2.0 Navi which sports the new colour introduced for the facelifted Civic, Twilight Blue Metallic.

The eagle-eyed among you would have figured out that this colour was previously available on the Honda CR-V.

If you can’t tell the difference between the facelift and the pre-facelift model, well then that’s understandable as the design changes are minimal.

The facelift Civic has updated the front-fascia with a honeycomb grille and a wide U shaped chrome element cradling the Honda logo.

And there is also a bit more chrome between the front fog-lamps.

The interior has also stayed pretty much the same with the exception of the piano black trim and the touch-screen display which has been expanded to 7-inch compared to the previous 6.1-inch.

This head unit includes navigation, Mirror Link, Personal Media Access, Bluetooth, two USB ports, an HDMI port and reverse camera.

Everything remains the same under the hood with the 2.0litre SOHC i-VTEC engine mated to a five-speed automatic transmission which outputs 155PS at 6,500rpm and 190Nm of torque at 4,300rpm.

Driver and passenger seats are wrapped in leather as is the steering wheel which gives off a rather premium surrounding. Another eye-catching feature is the tiered layout of the dashboard which clearly separates various functions of the instrument cluster.

The large tachometer right behind the steering wheel takes a big chunk of the real-eastate and with good reason; its a prime feature in sports cars and while this is not a Type R Civic, it still leaves a good impression nonetheless.

Another sporty and welcome feature are the paddle shifters.

The Civic has the convenient keyless entry with push start ignition.

Funnily enough, the placement of the push start and the hazard light button, being side-by-side and both are circular and red, can be confusing initially.

Overall, the cabin is spacious and comfortable for front and rear passengers with a wheelbase of 2,670mm and being in the driver’s seat is simply a joy as it has a cockpit ambience with its driver-centric layout.

Get behind the wheel of the Civic and it provides responsive acceleration with a light but weighted feel to the steering and provides good turning radius.

Anyone who thinks that this car is too long for them to drive will be in for a surprise as it behaves like a compact car.

And if you are in the mood for a little spirited driving then the Civic is sure to put a smile on your face.

Floor it and the exhaust note floods the cabin, not excessively though, and the car pulls away confidently in a straight-line and is very well behaved around turns and bends too.

Now this Civic review unit, which has clocked over 14,000km, is in really good shape despite being a review unit which has been “abused” by many hands over the year.

There are some very minor scratches behind the driver side door handle but the chrome handle itself is relatively scratch-free.

Inside, the new car smell has all but disappeared.

However, the leather upholstery looks and feels good and the piano black trim which is found on the door armrest and around the gear shifter is still shiny and without any scratches.

The only significant area where scratches are visible is the tray area in the centre console located below the climate control panel. This however, is to be expected as its plastic material becomes a temporary home for keys and coins among other things.

These are areas where your hands come in contact with the most including the steering wheel, the controls on the steering wheel and the stalks all look new including the power window switches.

So far, the wear-and-tear of the Civic is very minor despite it being used by many test drivers. We think it would be in even better shape in the hands of an individual owner.


Car sales expected to moderate amid soft economic climate

                KUALA LUMPUR: Car sales momentum is expected to moderate in the coming months owing to the soft economic climate amid the Covid-19 outbreak and political uncertainty, says Affin Hwang Capital research.

The research house maintained its neutral outlook on the sector and cut its 2020 total industry volume (TIV) assumption to 583,000 units, or 3.5% lower year-on-year (y-o-y).

For January, Proton's car sales volume rose 25% y-o-y to 8,500 units owing to higher demand for the updated 2019 models including the Saga, Iriz, Persona and Exora.

Its one-month market share for January rose to 19.9%, which was its highest since March 2014 at 20.9%.

Perodua, on the other hand, saw its car sales volume decline to 17,500 units, which was 13% lower y-o-y, on weaker demand over its model line-up.

Perodua's market share for the one-month period remained the highest at 41%.

Affin Hwang noted that the down-trading trend in the domestic automotive market is gaining pace with sales of cheaper national brands with refreshed line ups outpacing the pricier Japanese car line-ups.

"Most Japanese marques saw a slump in 1M20 sales volume – Honda (-19.4% yoy), Nissan (-45.9% yoy) and Mazda (-31.5% yoy; current backlog at est. 1.3k units), except for Toyota (+16% yoy on low base effect)," it said.

In the luxury car segment, Mercedes-Benz 1M20 sales plunged to 645 units, 39% lower y-o-y amid the soft economic climate.


The story of the steadfast Proton dealer

                PETALING JAYA: Although it has its ups and downs, Proton will emerge again at the top, says dealer Ryan Lai.

Lai left his position as an engineer with a Korean tech giant and joined his family business, a Proton service centre under EON, that has been in operation since 2004.

"Business was bad at the time. We were servicing only around 60 cars a month, and my father was at his wit's end and wanted to surrender the service centre," he said in an interview at Proton's Centre of Excellence in Shah Alam.

Lai, 35 from Nilai, Negri Sembilan, spent some time observing the weaknesses of the LHM One Stop Car Service Center and decided to quit his engineering job in 2007 to focus on building up the business.

 Ryan test drives a Geely car.

"I discovered there was nothing wrong with the brand but the service centre itself needed a jolt," he said.

"What I did was to quickly come out with a policy for human resource and administration. We ensured the technicians were up to the standards. Discipline and work quality became the new law.

"We had previously never entertained warranty claims, which made us lost many business opportunities. We studied the warranty claim process and started offering that service."

LHM One Stop Car Service Center which operates in Nilai now has 65 employees, 10 of them manning the Proton showroom alone. The service centre was upgraded from a 2S to 4S centre last year.

It is now servicing 1,300 Proton cars on average every month and caters to customers in Nilai, Sepang, KLIA, Cyberjaya and Putrajaya.

 Geely Service Centre.

Lai was invited by Proton recently to visit Geely's dealership and the Geely Research Institute in Shanghai.

"The Geely dealership was truly an eye opener. They treat their customers very well. Although Geely is not a premium brand, the service there is akin to one provided by one (premium car brand)," said Lai.

"This trip to Geely’s facilities was a money-can’t-buy experience. I will be sharing some of the ideas there and implement it in my service centre."

Lai also had a  chance to test-drive the Geely Boyue SUV, the model that will be the base for Proton's first SUV, set to be launched in Malaysia next year. "It has the right look and size and the interior quality really got me excited," he said.

"The dashboard, door trim, leather seat and the equipment in the Boyue reminded me of my brother's premium German SUV back in Malaysia. It was really that good," said Lai. He also said the turbocharged engine and the automatic gearbox were "very smooth!"

Lai also pointed out that Proton's decision to expand its marketing efforts online would attract younger customers. "Proton is moving in the right direction," he said, adding that he is considering increasing his investment in the brand.


Nissan kicks off plan to assemble cars in Myanmar

 Instrument cluster of Navara.

YANGON: Nissan today announced that it will begin assembling new cars in Myanmar this year, in partnership with Tan Chong Motor Group. Plans for a factory in the country's Bago region are progressing well, it said. Bago is 90km north-east of here.

Nissan will initially use an existing Tan Chong facility to assemble the Sunny compact sedan, before transferring production to the new plant with a workforce of 300 and a production capacity of 10,000 units at full production.

To prepare for assembly, 200 employees are being trained at the Tan Chong plant in Malaysia as part of a knowledge-transfer initiative that will provide the local workforce with the necessary skills. Nissan and Tan Chong will also work to enhance and expand the entire business network, which currently includes a branch office and dealers in Yangon.

Nissan's expansion in Myanmar forms part of the company's wider growth in emerging markets, which includes production in countries including India, Brazil, Russia and Nigeria.

Demand in Myanmar is expected to grow rapidly following economic and political reforms in the country.

At a ceremony in Bago today, Nissan and Tan Chong executives joined Bago government officials to sign a land lease agreement with representatives of the country’s Bago Region.

“Nissan is pleased to have the opportunity to be part of new motoring growth in Myanmar,” said Toru Hasegawa, corporate vice president of Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. and president of Nissan Motor Asia Pacific.

 Myanmar, Nissan and Tan Chong officials at the signing ceremony in Bago today.

“With today’s announcement, we are on the path to expanding our business in Myanmar through the construction of a plant, and bringing investment and employment opportunities to the local community. We are eager to develop a long and productive relationship with the people of Myanmar.”

Nissan started vehicles sales in Myanmar in 2013, with the current product lineup including the X-Trail sports utility vehicle, Altima sedan, Navara pickup truck, NV350 Urvan van and Civilian minibus. Local production will add the Sunny to the lineup.


VW crowns GTI line with street-legal 290-hp TCR edition

                WOLFSBURG: A new chapter of Golf GTI history has begun with the world première of the 290hp Golf GTI TCR Concept.

VW’s beefed-up GTI series is set to expand at the top end of the performance spectrum. Based on the 350-horsepower TCR racing series edition, a new, street-legal top-of-the-line model will arrive by the end of the year.

The compact sports hatchback, which can be ordered without an electronically controlled speed limit, will have a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine with 290hp and a top speed of 270kph .

Volkswagen announced its plans for the GTI TCR ahead of the model's premiere at the annual GTI fair at Lake Woerthersee in Austria.

In addition to the souped-up engine, the GTI TCR will feature a high-performance brake system and, on request, a titanium exhaust. The model’s design is also notably different from the conventional GTI, particularly thanks to larger and more robust attachments on its front, flanks and rear.


Tesla to offer Ludicrous Mode upgrades as add-on

                SAN FRANCISCO: Tesla has announced that it will offer its Ludicrous Mode upgrade to P90D buyers, even if they passed over the feature at the time of purchase, reports Tech Crunch.

Until now, buyers of P90Ds were asked to buy the Ludicrous Mode updates at the time of purchase and if they opted out, they were not offered it again.

For US$10,000, P90D owners can now add the upgrades, which promise to make the car 20 percent faster - reducing its quarter mile time to 10.9 seconds and its 0-100 time to 2.8 seconds. The upgrade functions by switching out a fuse and a battery back, increasing the maximum output from 1,300 amps to 1,500 amps.

Without the upgrade, the P90D promises 0-60 in 3.2 seconds.


Facelifted Mercedes A-Class comes blazing in

                STUTTGART: Mercedes-Benz has revealed the new which promises better comfort and sporty performance.

It comes in a dizzying array of 17 versions with the A160 at one end and the A 45 4MATIC at the other.

In combination with the 7G-DCT dual clutch transmission, the A-Class now has "Launch Assist" for even faster acceleration from standstill.

The new-generation A-Class is also the first Mercedes-Benz model to be sold with comprehensive smartphone integration: from the beginning of 2016 the infotainment systems Apple CarPlay (for iPhone owners) and MirrorLink will become available.

 A 250 Sport (AMG Line).

Striking lines, dynamically curved surfaces and coupé-like window lines characterise the exterior of the A-Class. The form of the new, more arrow-shaped front bumper takes its lead strongly from the Concept A-CLASS of 2011. With a diamond grille, new LED High Performance headlamps (optional extra; standard for A 45) and newly designed rear lights with exhaust tailpipes integrated into the bumper.

An instrument cluster of tubular design with high-quality dial graphics and galvanised switches upgrades the quality interior, as does the large, free-standing and frameless display of the head unit, which is now available as as optional 8-inch display. New colours and materials, as well as new finishes for the trim in the dashboard, add a refreshing tone to the cabin.

The equipment range for the A-Class has been expanded in numerous areas. The model is offered with optional LED High Performance headlamps and ambient lighting which can be individualised with 12 colours and five dimming levels. Also new is seat cushion depth adjustment by up to 60 mm – a standard feature in all equipment lines.

With its dramatic design in the style of the MERCEDES AMG PETRONAS Formula 1 team, the special "Motorsport Edition" model will appeal to racing fans. Areas of the front and rear bumper trim are painted in petrol green, and the same colour adorns the rim flanges of the AMG light- alloy wheels.

The AMG rear aerofoil is embellished with petrol green highlights, as are the exterior mirrors (only in conjunction with A 250 Sport and A 250 Sport 4MATIC). Eye-catching details in the interior include the petrol green surrrounds of the air vents and the contrasting topstitching in petrol green.

The "Motorsport Edition" is available for all engine variants from the A 200/A 200 d upwards (except the A 45).

The A-Class offers a good range of power outputs to meet customer needs, with the base diesel A 160 dishing out 90hp/240Nm and the petrol A 45 4MATIC capping it at 381hp/475Nm. In between, the A 250 Sport and A 250 Sport 4MATIC are now a little more powerful than before, developing 218hp/350Nm.

The DYNAMIC SELECT drive modes are offered in selected versions, enabling the driver to change the vehicle characteristics in seconds at the touch of a button, as the system modifies the engine, transmission, suspension, steering and air conditioning. The four driving modes "Comfort", "Sport", "Eco" and "Individual" can be conveniently selected using the switch in the upper control array.

DYNAMIC SELECT is standard in the A 200 d 4MATIC, A 220 4MATIC, A 220 d, A 220 d 4MATIC, A 250 4MATIC, A 250 Sport and A 250 Sport 4MATIC. The system is also included as standard in all models with 7G-DCT, AMG Line or a lowered suspension.

The A 45 4MATIC is equipped with the DYNAMIC SELECT driving modes "Comfort", "Sport", "Sport +" and "Individual", which are familiar from the Mercedes-AMG GT sports car and the top-of-the-line C-Class model, the Mercedes-AMG C 63, as standard. As a new optional feature for the world's most powerful compact sports model, the AMG DYNAMIC PLUS package includes a mechanical front axle locking differential, the AMG RIDE CONTROL sport suspension with adaptive damping and the fifth DYNAMIC SELECT driving mode "Race".

The new generation of the A-Class entered the market in September 2012.

It is made in Rastatt, Germany and production is also outsourced to Valmet Automotive of Finland.

The Mercedes-Benz brand has also undergone a noticeable rejuvenation since the introduction of the new compact models. Today, the average age of European drivers owning the new A-Class is around 13 years less than for the preceding model series. In China, the average age is 34 years.

The A-Class is scheduled for European launch at the end of September and should reach Malaysia soon after.


Penang parking system sowing annoyance among motorists

                GEORGE TOWN: Motorists and parking coupon agents are still confused over the Penang Smart Parking (PSP) system since it took effect on the island from Aug 23.

Shops that have been selling parking coupons issued by the Penang Island City Council are lamenting about the system’s overall execution.

Some claim they are unaware of the proposed parking e-coupons, said to be part of the PSP.

A shopkeeper at a mini mart here said she did not get any information on the sale of e-coupons.

“I heard about the new parking system, but so far, there are no updates on it from my boss.

“We are still selling the printed coupons, but currently we do not have any stock, ” she said on Monday.

PSP operator HeiTech Padu Berhad executive vice-president Abdul Halim Md Lassim had last week said that non-smartphone users or smartphone users without Internet data could pay their parking fees via e-coupons available from next month.

 The PSP app downloaded on mobile phones can help navigate motorist to available council parking lots embedded with sensors such as this one at Lebuh China, George Town.

He said e-coupons would be sold by the existing agents who are currently selling council parking coupons.

He also said that the e-coupons would be available at petrol stations and convenience stores such as 7-Eleven.

Meanwhile, many motorists are still grappling with understanding and embracing PSP’s applications.

Chong Ming Yan, 28, a financial analyst, said she was unsure about filling up the parking zone section in the PSP app.

“For Komtar area alone, there are three zones – Komtar A, Komtar B and Komtar C.

“Although I have downloaded the app, I cannot use it as I do not know which zone I am parked at.

“The system seems to be unstable as I was ‘signed out’ of the app a few times.

“I hope the state government can come with a video to educate people on the different zones and the correct way to use the app.

“This will definitely benefit everyone, including the older generation who are trying their best to keep up with new technology, ” she said.

A businessman, who wished to be known as Chew, 31, said he came for a business trip from Kuala Lumpur and was annoyed as he was ‘forced’ to reload at least RM10 as it is the minimum amount allowed.

“I am here for only two days and I think RM10 is too much.

“I wanted to reload merely RM5, but it was denied by the system.

“Previously, I could easily buy the coupons individually from the agent just for an hour or so, but now, what am I going to do with RM10 in credit in my PSP account.

“I hope the app developer can look into my concern, ” he said.

It was earlier reported that Penang was the first state to fully implement the PSP system, an app-based parking assistant that will direct motorists to the nearest available lot.

The app allows motorists to pay for parking via smartphones and by August 2020, all 36,000 council parking spaces in Penang will have vehicle sensors embedded into the road surface.

Abdul Halim was reported as saying that the shipment of sensors was delayed as it was stuck at Hong Kong airport due to the recent unrest there.

“We are now bringing it in by sea and it should arrive in Kuala Lumpur by this week and in Penang on Sept 6.

“We want to have it installed and running by Sept 24 or earlier, ” he said at a recent press conference.


Beijing autoshow postponed to September

The 2018 Beijing auto show. — Reuters
BEIJING: Organisers of the Beijing autoshow, which was scheduled to be held in late-April, said today the event would be held between Sept 26 and Oct 5 due to the coronavirus pandamic.

Several other auto shows globally have been cancelled or postponed due to the outbreak, including those in New York, Geneva and Sao Paulo.

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


Mustang Mach-E shows it's up to law enforcement tasks

                DETROIT: The Ford Pro all-electric police pilot vehicle based on the 2021 Mustang Mach-E SUV just became the first all-electric vehicle to pass the rigorous Michigan State Police 2022 model year evaluation.

Testing included acceleration, top speed, braking and high-speed pursuit, as well as emergency response handling characteristics.

Michigan State Police is one of two law enforcement agencies that annually test new model year police vehicles and publish the results for use by agencies nationwide.

“The fact that the Mustang Mach-E successfully stood up to the gruelling Michigan State Police evaluation demonstrates that Ford can build electric vehicles that are capable, tough and reliable enough for even the most challenging jobs,” said Ted Cannis, CEO of Ford Pro.

“We understand the needs of our commercial customers and are committed to unlocking new electrification opportunities for them.”

Ford Pro had submitted the all-electric police pilot vehicle for testing in the Michigan State Police 2022 model year evaluation just this month.

Michigan State Police will publish results for vehicles tested on its website later in the fall.


Mercedes dresses the G Wagon for success

STUTTGART: A new"designo manufaktur" program for the aging SUV will ensure that it can turn up the style as well as continue to perform off road.

Just like the Land Rover Defender, the Mercedes G Wagon has built its reputation and its fanbase on rugged, no nonsense looks and phenomenal off-road ability.

However, while the Defender is heading out to pasture at the end of the year, the G Wagon is still going strong despite being in production since 1979.

To help it keep pace with changing tastes and to ensure that it can compete just as well with the Range Rover as it can with the Land Rover Defender's upcoming replacement, the G Wagon is getting a seriously luxurious makeover.

Announced on Monday, the "designo manufaktur" program will enable G Wagon owners to fully express their individuality and personal style. A huge choice of special exterior colours -- solid, metallic, matte and pearlescent -- is available, as is an extensive choice of alloy wheels and trim pieces in polished or matte metals and even carbon fiber.

However, this is much more than a list of options that one ticks off -- just like Land Rover's Special Vehicles Operations division or BMW's Individual service, designo manufaktur is all about craftsmanship and tailoring, inside and out. Details are hand-finished, be they embroidered designs or legends in headrests or the external badging.

Clients can select any combination of the finest designo leathers for the interior including the dashboard, center console and door panels -- even the seatbelts and headliner come in a choice of colors and finishes.

And, for those opting for the flagship AMG G 63 or G 65 models, the Dinamica package, familiar to owners of Mercedes' AMG-badged performance sportscars is also available for the first time. That means a blend of black nappa leather and Dinamica grip-optimizing microfiber on the steering wheel, panels and headliner.

As for costs, that will be dictated by the individual's imagination, but an entry level G 350d with designo manufaktur elements will start at 89,922 euros whereas for an AMG G 65, that figure jumps to  271,915 euros.


Say goodbye to travel sickness with Citroën's Seetroën glasses

                PARIS: French car-maker Citroën presents Seetroën, the first glasses designed to eliminate motion sickness in a matter of minutes. They're available to buy for €99.

The Seetroën glasses use technology developed by the French startup, Boarding Ring.

The concept is surprisingly simple: the glasses contain a coloured liquid that recreates the horizon line to resolve conflict between the senses.

For the glasses to work, queasy travellers should put them on as soon as they start to experience the first symptoms of travel sickness. After around 10 minutes, the glasses enable the mind to resynchronise with the movement perceived by the inner ear. The user can then take the glasses off and enjoy the rest of their journey.

The Seetroën glasses can be used by adults and children over the age of 10. The glasses don't have lenses and can be shared between members of a family, co-workers or travel buddies. They can also be worn over the top of regular glasses.

The Seetroën travel sickness glasses are out now priced €99 (RM470) and can be used in cars and buses, as well as on boats and planes.

According to Citroën, over 30 million people in Europe suffer from chronic travel sickness.


Toyota Hilux improved for 2015

                SHAH ALAM: The 2015 Toyota Hilux pick-up truck has been enhanced with refreshed looks and kit such as daytime running lights (DRLs), and leather seats for the 2.5G AT variants.

Prices for the Hilux range from RM77,248.20 (single-cab 2.5-litre manual) to RM112,967 (double-cab 3.0G TRD Sportivo automatic).

UMW Toyota Motor also announced that order taking for the newly enhanced Toyota Vios has started, as of 2nd January, 2015.

Depending on variant, on-the-road prices for the enhanced Vios range from RM74,700 (J model; manual) to RM94,800 (TRD Sportivo).

Meanwhile, the improvements for the Hilux 3.0G and 2.5G include a new dark grey finish for the alloy wheels, DRLs, new interior trim and seat materials.

The 2015 Hilux can also be identified by new bodystripes along the sides of the vehicle.

The combination leather upholstery offered in the Hilux 3.0G is now also available in the Hilux 2.5G AT, while the Hilux 2.5G MT gets a new seat fabric design.

For improved comfort and safety, the Hilux 3.0G, 2.5G AT and TRD Sportivo variants come with Toyota Premium Security and Solar Film that is compliant with JPJ regulations and does not interfere with Smartag operation.

Meanwhile, UMW Toyota Motor also introduced TRD Sportivo variants of the pick-up truck to cater for the young at heart.

The TRD variants consist of 3.0G TRD Sportivo (AT) and 2.5G TRD Sportivo (AT).

Besides the exclusive bodykit, the TRD Sportivo package also comes with Daytime Running Lights on the TRD front bumper spoiler, black alloy rims, TRD combination leather upholstery, carbon fiber cubic printing on the instrument panel and door armrest panels, and TRD carpet mats.

Customers can also have an optional TRD sports bar installed at the back of the cab.

Developed by TRD, the sports bar is made of strong yet lightweight ABS material.

For all Hilux variants, an additional lock is now provided for the spare wheel to deter theft attempts.

For customers’ convenience, a portable tyre pump will be added as standard for Hilux 3.0G, 2.5G AT and TRD variants (it is optional for Hilux 2.5G MT, double cab standard and single cab).

Designed with LED lights to aid usability at night, the portable tyre pump also comes with multiple types of nozzles to inflate various other inflatables.

Hilux owners (3.0G, 2.5G and TRD variants only) can also choose an optional DVD-AVN system that includes a reverse camera with static guide lines.

It is compatible with smartphones (Android and iOS) using Bluetooth or WiFi connection.

The MirrorLink and Miracast function enable users to operate their smartphone functions and applications through the DVD-AVN screen itself.

Users can also browse the Internet or search information on the screen once the AVN system connects and uses smartphone as hotspot.

There is also Voice Recognition function for the audio and navigation systems and all information is shown on a seven-inch multi-touch capacitive touchscreen.

The angle of the 2-DIN head unit can be adjusted for the best viewing position.

Another optional accessory is the DVD-AVX system which also includes a reverse camera.

This has a 6.1-inch colour touchscreen, DVD-player, MP3, USB, SD Card slot, and Bluetooth hands-free function.

This DVD-AVX system caters for users who prefer a more advanced DVD media player system with a touch-screen display, but do not need a navigation system.

For 2015 Hilux double cab range, two new exterior colours are available– Grey Metallic and Attitude Black – for a total of five colour choices.


Jeep pulls out of China over govt meddling in business

                DETROIT: Stellantis NV shuttered its only Jeep factory in China because local politicians are increasingly meddling in the world’s biggest car market, chief executive officer Carlos Tavares said Thursday.

The carmaker is implementing an "asset-light” strategy in the country out of concern that rising political tensions between China and the rest of the world could lead to economic sanctions, the CEO said in an interview with Bloomberg Television.

"We have been seeing over the last few years more and more political interference in the world of business in China,” Tavares said.

"We don’t want to be a victim of cross-sanctions as has been the case for other companies in other regions of the world recently.”

The CEO’s candid comments offer a deeper explanation than initially given for Stellantis’s announcement last week that it’s terminating a 12-year manufacturing partnership with state-owned Guangzhou Automobile Group.

Jeep is exiting as more established foreign auto brands have struggled to maintain their share of the market, raising questions about their long-term future in China.

Carmakers are taking into account what’s happened with the war in Ukraine and considering whether the ever-lengthening list of sanctions targeting Russia would similarly apply to China if the country were to assert itself in Taiwan.

Business for carmakers including Stellantis, Volkswagen AG and General Motors Co. in the country is becoming more challenging as local manufacturers including BYD Co., Geely Automobile Holdings Ltd. and Nio Inc. roll out a slew of fully electric models.

Tavares pointed to German and US-branded vehicle sales falling by about a fifth in China during the first half, as well as a double-digit drop for Japanese brands, while domestic companies’ sales rose.

"We see that for Western players, selling cars in China is becoming increasingly difficult,” he told reporters at a press conference. "There is an absolutely major shift in the Chinese market.”

"We have two big competitors, Volkswagen and GM, who are very present in China,” Tavares added.

"I wouldn’t want to be in their place.”

Sanctions against Iran, and more recently Russia, showed how companies were forced to choose between two sides, Tavares said. Peugeot maker PSA Group pulled back from Iran during his tenure as CEO in 2018.

This year, Renault SA was recently forced to withdraw from Russia — previously its second-biggest market —due to the war in Ukraine.

Tavares acknowledged that the Jeep joint venture was racking up losses but said the company’s reasons for leaving run deeper.

He said the decision was rooted in "broken trust” with its local partner, as well as the Chinese Communist Party and its economic policies supporting domestic auto companies.

While Stellantis had signed a deal to raise its stake in the GAC joint venture to 75%, GAC "did not do what it was supposed to do,” Tavares said.

"So we considered that it was better to unwind.”

The venture had produced the Jeep Cherokee, Renegade, Compass and Grand Commander models primarily for the China market.

Stellantis will instead ship an electrified lineup of different Jeep vehicles to its dealers in the country.

The automaker is reassessing the impact of the change on targets for China outlined in March, Tavares said. Its plan then was to reach about €20 billion (RM91bil) of annual sales and launch some 30 product by the end of the decade.


Check out latest Proton X50 videos while you wait for its Oct 27 launch

UPDATE:Proton posted up on Oct 26 a fifth clip emphasising the X50 comfort.

PETALING JAYA: The much anticipated X50 will launch this coming Tuesday and we will finally know the actual prices Proton will charge for the four variants.

The Covid-19 crisis has meant the X50 would make its official debut through Facebook livestreaming at 10.50am on that day.

To whip up further excitement for the SUV, Proton has recently released four new promotional video clips on its latest model that focus on its performance, design, infotainment and safety.

Connectivity is one of the X50's strongest selling points and Proton is keen to highlight the availability of such features as Voice Command, Remote Engine Start via the PROTON Link App, Online Music Streaming and access via a LCD touchscreen-based infotainment head unit.

Shown in the videos is the top-of-the-line X50 Flagship, which we tried not too long ago during a media drive. Under the bonnet is a 1.5-litre 3-cylinder turbocharged direct fuel injection engine that cranks out 175hp and 255Nm of torque.

If you want to know what other Malaysians are saying about the X50 after checking it out during a Klang Valley and Penang preview, go to the last two clips below.


Cycle & Carriage debuts Mercedes-Benz virtual showroom in Malaysia

PETALING JAYA: Cycle & Carriage has officially launched the first Mercedes-Benz virtual showroom in Malaysia designed to meet changing consumer expectations and to augment car-buyers experience.The Cycle & Carriage Virtual Showroom simulates a physical showroom and customers can virtually explore both the showroom and vehicles in an immersive environment.“While our physical retail experience will certainly be here to stay, complementing it with an immersive online experience and seamlessly incorporating both channels would make the purchasing journey better for our customers”, said CEO of Cycle & Carriage Bintang, Wilfrid Foo.At the time of launch, the Cycle Carriage Virtual Showroom showcases nine Mercedes-Benz models, from the sporty A-Class hatchback to the luxurious S-Class saloon, and even the bold GLC SUV.Customers can enjoy external and internal 360-degree views of the cars and customise them using the car configurator.There are also exclusive in-depth Cycle & Carriage Expert Review videos on the more popular variants for those who want to know more.Detailed information about each vehicle’s specifications is also available.Once customers have previewed each vehicle, they can place an appointment for a test-drive at their preferred Cycle & Carriage Autohaus.“We believe that to be a trusted dealer partner, we need to deliver on that promise of meeting our customers’ evolving needs. Our new virtual showroom is one of the many investments we are making to nurture the overall customer experience and together with our physical showrooms, our customers can begin their ownership journey with confidence,” adds Foo.


New GST zero-rated prices and rebates for Renault

                PETALING JAYA: TC Euro Cars (TCEC), the sole franchise holder for Renault vehicles in Malaysia, announced the new prices for its Renault models, which will take effect immediately with the upcoming implementation of the zero-rated GST.

TCEC is also offering additional incentives in the form of rebates on the related models, with combined savings of up to RM40,000.

TCEC will absorb the 6% GST for vehicles registered with immediate effect and new zero-rated GST prices will remain in effect until the implementation of the sales and services tax (SST).

Customers are also able to enjoy additional rebates for relevant models immediately.

The table below lists the prices of Renault models, with 6% GST versus with 0% GST, as well as the new prices that are inclusive of the respective rebates. All prices stated are on-the-road, without insurance, for Peninsular Malaysia and private individual Malaysian registration only.
Current Price with 6% GSTNew Price    with 0% GSTNew Price with 0% GST + Additional IncentivesTotal SavingsFluence(limited units available)RM119,888RM113,143RM79,888RM40,000Captur (Pre-Facelift)RM109,000RM102,845RM89,999RM19,001New Captur (Facelift)RM109,000RM102,845RM95,999RM13,001Koleos 2WDRM184,200RM173,840RM159,888RM24,312Koleos 2WD SignatureRM198,800RM187,614RM179,888RM18,912Koleos 4WDRM209,000RM197,237RM189,888RM19,112
“This is a great time to buy a Renault. We strongly encourage those looking for a stylish, vehicle with continental quality and safety standards to take advantage of this tax-holiday plus our additional incentives,” said Kuan Kim Luen, CEO, TC Euro Cars Sdn Bhd.

The new prices with zero-percent GST include Renault’s five-year full manufacturer’s warranty with unlimited mileage for the models listed in the table above.

For the Renault Captur, the new GST zero-rated price also covers the 5-in-Captur aftersales package, which includes:

- Free service and maintenance (parts and labour) for five years or up to 100,000km, whichever comes first

- A five-year manufacturer’s warranty with unlimited mileage

- Complimentary 24 hours roadside assistance

- Pick-up and delivery during scheduled maintenance at Renault service centres

- Mobility service of replacement car in the event any part is not available for over 48 hours at authorised service centres, subject to availability

For more information about Renault in Malaysia, please visit www.renault.com.my


Proper jump-starting won't damage cars, says Proton

                SUBANG JAYA: Proton has refuted claims on the Internet, saying that all its cars can be jump-started without causing any damage.

The rumours circulating on social media claimed that jump-starting certain Proton models would cause irreparable damage to the transmission control unit.

Proton urged its customers to refer to the owner's manual if in doubt.

"We wish to provide a more accurate guide on this subject and assure Proton owners that it is safe to use jumper cables to start the engine as long as proper steps are followed, as stated in the Proton car owner's manual," Proton said in a statement.

However, it said that Proton cars, like those of other OEMs, have been equipped with electronic systems which are sensitive to power surge and proper steps must be followed in jump-starting.

The right procedure to jump-start any car would be to connect the (+) battery from the assisting car to the (+) terminal of the battery of the affected car. However, the (-) terminal from the assisting car must be connected to the body of the affected car, NOT to its (-) terminal.

Other points Proton highlighted are:

>    Vehicles should be close enough so that the jumper cables can be connected, but be sure that the vehicles aren't touching each other. If they are, it could cause an undesirable ground connection. It will not be possible to start the vehicle, and the bad grounding could damage the electrical systems (Transmission Control Unit, TCU).

> The assisting vehicle must have a 12-volt battery and the capacity (Ah) of the booster battery should not be significantly lower than that of the discharged battery. This is to avoid circuit-shorting and thus damage to both vehicles.

> Only use jumper cables with insulated battery clamps.

> Vehicle must be positioned in “P” (PARK) for automatic transmission and “N” (NEUTRAL) for manual transmission.

> Turn off the ignition on both vehicles beforehand.

> When connecting the booster cable, do not connect the positive (+) cable to the negative (-) terminal or it can cause sparks and battery could explode.

> The negative jumper cable (black) must never be clamped to fuel lines with metal sheath or to the fuel filter or brake lines as this could cause a fire.

> Start the engine in the vehicle, which has the booster battery, let the engine idle for a few minutes and then start the engine in the vehicle with the discharged battery.

> After the engine is started, disconnect the cables in reverse order.


Tesla Autopilot 'a distant second' to GM's Super Cruise in hands-free test: Consumer Reports

                DETROIT: General Motors Co's Super Cruise once again edged Tesla's Autopilot in an evaluation of 17 vehicles equipped with active driving assistance systems (ADAS) by Consumer Reports, the testing organisation said on Wednesday.

A Tesla Model Y fitted with Autopilot finished “a distant second,” the group said, to a Cadillac CT6 equipped with Super Cruise, which GM is rolling out to more than 20 vehicles - including its new Hummer electric pickup truck - over the next three years.

Safety and insurance researchers have frequently warned of the risks of consumers overestimating ADAS systems’ abilities, a misconception increased by some automakers calling their products Autopilot, ProPilot or Co-Pilot.

In 2018, the Cadillac CT6 with Super Cruise scored higher than a Tesla Model 3 with Autopilot, in a Consumer Reports test of just four vehicles equipped with ADAS.

In the latest test, conducted this summer on a track and on public roads, the Cadillac scored 69 points out of a possible 100, while the Tesla scored 57. A Lincoln Corsair equipped with Ford Motor Co's F.N Co-Pilot 360 system, finished third with 52.

The critical difference in the Super Cruise system is a driver-facing infrared camera to make sure he or she is paying attention to the road and is ready to take over manual control when necessary, said Kelly Funkhouser, head of connected and automated vehicle testing at Consumer Reports.

The group noted that Autopilot can shut off abruptly in some situations, while Super Cruise did a better job of notifying the driver when the system is disengaging.

In recent European safety testing, a Tesla Model 3 with Autopilot placed sixth out of 10 systems, getting high marks for performance and ability to respond to emergencies, but falling short on its ability to maintain a driver’s focus on the road.


Sinkhole causes temporary closure of northbound NSE stretch near Ipoh

                IPOH: A stretch on the North-South Expressway heading north near Gunung Lang will be temporarily closed off to traffic to fix a sinkhole at KM272.

In a statement released on its website, PLUS Malaysia Bhd (PLUS) said the road would be reopened as soon as the repair was done and advice sought from technical experts on-site.

It said the 2.1m wide and 2.1m deep sinkhole was discovered during a patrol on Monday (May 27) at 3.30pm.

"The left lane was closed immediately as a safety measure for all highway customers.

"This anomaly did not result in any untoward incident involving highway customers driving along that stretch.

"PLUS' series of extensive inspections at nearby locations confirmed no further sinkholes were identified," it added.

PLUS also advised motorists heading north to exit the highway at the Ipoh South toll plaza and re-enter at the Ipoh North interchange.

"All customers are advised to drive carefully and adhere to traffic signage and instructions along the affected stretch.

"PLUS will continuously share its latest traffic updates at the affected stretch via PLUSTrafik Twitter, PLUS Mobile app and electronic signage placed at strategic locations along the highway," it added.


New MINI driven in Puerto Rico

UPDATE: Although initially slated for launch at MINI Weekend on April 12-13, BMW Malaysia has advanced it to today. The new MINI is priced from RM178,888 to RM248,888 (estimated prices only, subject to government approval).

Puerto Rico certainly counts as a destination off the beaten path to many a Malaysian.

It’s exotic enough to have me scrambling to do a Google search on its whereabouts.

Hokay! There it is - 1,800km south-east of Florida in the Caribbean and about as close to South America as Haiti or the Dominican Republic.

It looks small compared with other islands and land masses around but it’s a sizeable place as I soon discovered. In fact, at 9,104 sq km, it’s bigger than Selangor but smaller than Kedah.

I was there in February to try out the latest MINI. It was at the tail end of a month-long international media drive, based out of the swanky Dorado Beach Resort where rooms are US$1,700 (RM5,539) a night.

The Ritz-Carlton-owned property is a sprawling resort occupying a former grapefruit and coconut plantation with rooms overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, a stone’s throw away.

So imagine the magnificent view as you step out onto the balcony to welcome the breeze, inhale deeply the salt air and feel the calming effect of surf breaking onto shore.

It’s a delightful experience – and an agreeable setting for the third-generation MINI.

On drive day, keys were handed to the media crowd but not before they were treated to an opening act by US artiste Onita Boone, beachside, to mark the MINI introduction.

Singing “I Was Made in England”, Onita tailored the song to the occasion, delivering an entertaining performance that served to pump up the MINI hype.

During the day-long drive, I had the chance to sample the Cooper and the more powerful Cooper S.

They come with all-new engines that include a three-cylinder mill for the cheaper Cooper. A diesel MINI was also available but it will not be selling in Malaysia, as Euro IV-grade fuel is the minimum requirement.

To give a three-door hatch a little more practicality, the car has grown bigger this round, with wheelbase extended to expand rear seating and boot space.

The cabin shows substantially more changes than the outside, and there’s enough tech advancements in the car for MINI to ask for a price hike.

At a glance, the exterior may seemed to have changed little save for LED daytime driving lights, more prominent tail lamps and tweaks to the grille and other detailing updates.

One could be excused for mistaking this as a special edition of the outgoing R56 stock. But no sir, it ain’t.

This is the F56 MINI, built on a new front-wheel drive platform.

The so-called UKL (for unter klasse or entry level) will be the basis for MINI to roll out up to 10 new models in future.

UKL will also be used to build (horror of horrors but get used to it, people) front-wheel drive BMWs, the first of which was the recently announced 2 Series Active Tourer.

While the car’s façade and BMW’s formidable marketing machinery want you to think MINI is as British as Yorkshire pudding, it’s German precision engineering and innovations that have whipped this little car into shape and expand its iconic status into the 21st Century.

The interior simply bristles with change.

First off, driver and front passenger will immediately feel more headroom and elbow room on stepping inside. There’s a little more space for rear occupants but it’s still not the place to sit for long journeys. Seats are otherwise comfortable and supportive.

Things have been re-arranged and more features have been added to give a more premium feel.

The Start/Stop system is now a red toggle on the centre dash in the middle of the toggle bar, so you can’t miss it. Window controls are relocated to the doors.

Road speed and engine speed along with other key driving-related information is shown in the newly designed instrument cluster on the steering column as it should be.

The characteristic central instrument with an optional colour display of up to 8.8 inches in size provides feedback on operations performed using a meaty MINI Controller, which now looks like the BMW iDrive, in the centre console.

The previous one was a fragile-looking little stalk that jutted up.

The infotainment display is almost encircled by an LED strip that changes colour in response to tasks such as when starting the engine or when changing to one of three drive modes.

Unnecessary but a nice touch.

The new MINI Driving Modes allow an individual set-up involving not just the characteristic curve of the accelerator and steering but also engine acoustics, and in the Cooper S - where the relevant features are fitted - ambient lighting, the displays in the central instrument, the shift times of the automatic transmission and the characteristics of Dynamic Damper Control, the latter system being optionally available for the first time.

The modes SPORT and GREEN can be activated, via a rotary switch at the base of the gear or selector lever, in addition to the standard MID mode.

In conjunction with an automatic transmission, the efficiency-oriented GREEN mode also features a coasting function with decoupled drivetrain.

The range of optional driver assist systems has been expanded.

For the first time, there is an extendible Head-Up Display above the steering column, camera-based active cruise control, collision and pedestrian warning, high beam assistant and road sign detection, and also a parking assistant and a rear view camera.

The Cooper is powered by a new 1.5-litre, 3-cylinder petrol engine with a peak output of 136bhp/220Nm.

The Cooper S has a new 4-cylinder petrol engine that produces 192bhp/280Nm.

Both include turbocharging, direct fuel injection and variable camshaft control on the intake and exhaust side.

Puerto Rico offers a mix of expressways and narrow, winding and rutty roads that are similar to those in Malaysia.

While one expects the Cooper S to be smoother, quicker and more powerful, the 3-cylinder Cooper did a decent job at the business of driving.

Both cars offer seamless acceleration and are rev-happy.

The six-speed manual Cooper shifts fluidly through the gears and delivers enough power on level roads.

Torque peaks early from 1,250rpm and the engine never sounds harsh at higher speeds.

But with one cylinder less, the mill needs to be worked much harder to make the car climb mountain roads; the emphasis in this model is on fuel efficiency instead of outright performance.

I was told the Cooper will be specified with the 6-speed automatic, just like the Cooper S, for the Malaysian market when they arrive soon.

Handling, as in the Cooper S, is praiseworthy as poise and high mechanical grip attest to the MINI’s much ballyhooed go-kart reputation.

The bottom line: the MINI has grown up. It hasn’t lost its way despite the elaborate refinements that attempt to make it a better ride while calling out to a broader clientele.

And that is the way to go as far as MINI, or its parent company, is concerned.


Tesla to produce more than 500 Model 3s per day this week, says Electrek

                SAN FRANCISCO: Tesla Inc’s chief executive officer Elon Musk said production of its crucial Model 3 sedan is likely to exceed 500 vehicles per day this week, automotive news website Electrek reported on Tuesday.

That would translate to about 3,500 Model 3s per week, up quite a bit from the weekly production rate of 2,270 it hit in the last week of April.

Earlier this month, Tesla said its Model 3 production target remains on track, expecting about 5,000 per week in about two months.

Musk said on Tuesday if anyone knew of any specific bottlenecks that would prevent the carmaker from achieving that production rate, they should come to him this week, according to the report, citing an email from Musk to employees.

Tesla did not respond immediately to a request for comment.

The news comes a day after Musk said Tesla was undergoing a “thorough reorganization” as it contends with production problems, senior staff departures and recent crashes involving its electric cars.

Tesla will still rapidly hire people to fill critical positions “to support the Model 3 production ramp and future product development,” Musk said on Monday.

Tesla is at a critical juncture as it tries to fix an inauspicious launch of the Model 3 sedan, a mid-market car crucial to its success and future profitability that has been plagued by early production problems.


Audi readying its first electric GT car

                INGOLSTADT (Germany): In the same week that Polestar, Volvo's high-performance tuning arm, revealed that it's about to go it alone as performance car company specialising in fully electric vehicles, Audi has confirmed that its first fully electric premium family sportscar will be a market reality in 2019.

The Audi e-tron Sportback concept was one of the stars of this year's Shanghai auto show and now it is destined to go from show-stopping design study to real-world emissions-free performance car in less than two years.

 The Mission E Concept.

In auto show form, the high-sided four door "gran turismo" coupé is capable of traveling 500km on a single charge and, thanks to having three electric motors, one at each rear wheel and one mounted on the front axle splitting power left and right, can accelerate off the line and on to 100kph in just 4.5 seconds and should remain glued to the road no matter the speed or cornering force.

The combined output of those motors means that the car has over 500hp to draw on but that total output is only served up when absolute performance is required, not unlike the KERs system on Formula 1 cars that provides an extra boost for overtaking.

Those performance figures, plus the car's proportions (it has roughly the same wheelbase as the existing Audi A7) suggest that it will be sharing some technology with the Porsche Mission E, which also stole the show when it debuted in Frankfurt in 2015 and which is slated to go into production before decade's end.

 The DBX Concept.

In true Audi fashion, the Sportback is being described as an entirely new model segment, inasmuch as it takes the lines and proportions of a four-door coupé and applies them to the crossover segment. However, even here it can't claim to be the first as Aston Martin has already performed that particular optical illusion with the DBX concept, unveiled in Geneva in 2016 and also getting ready to go into production as a full-on EV.

Before the Sportback goes on sale, Audi will be testing the water with the e-tron electric SUV. It is going into production in 2018 and like the sportback is to be built at the company's Belgian plant.


Volkswagen's all-new electric family begins with ID.3

BERLIN: Volkswagen is starting pre-booking in Europe for the first model in its new full-electric ID. family, the ID.3 with immediate effect.

Potential customers can register for an early production slot for the ID.3 at www.volkswagen.co.uk/id by paying a registration deposit of £750 (RM4,055). The ID.3 1st special edition, which has been especially configured for pre-booking, includes high-quality, high-performance equipment and is limited to 30,000 vehicles.

Volkswagen is equipping the ID.3 1st with the medium-sized battery option later available for the ID.3 series, which is expected to be most popular.

With the three production battery options, ranges between 330km and up to 550km in accordance with WLTP will be possible. The pre-booking special edition has a range of 420km (WLTP).

The ID.3 is to be delivered to customers in carbon neutral form. Both battery cell production and ID. production are oriented towards this goal, for example with the consistent use of power from renewable sources. Unavoidable emissions in the production process will be compensated for by certified climate projects.

The number 3 is significant in two ways. On the one hand, it indicates the ID. as belonging to the compact segment, which is the class distinction in both internal and industry-wide classification systems.

On the other, the ID.3 follows the Beetle and the Golf to introduce the third major chapter of strategic importance for the history of the brand.

“With the ID.3, we are starting from the centre, the Volkswagen brand’s core, in which the majority of the models and sales volume can be found. The number 3 also signals expandability into the segments above and below it. We have a lot in the pipeline,” says Jürgen Stackmann, Member of the Board of Management Volkswagen Brand for Sales, Marketing & After Sales.


Mercedes-Benz EQB and EQC prices revealed

                KUALA LUMPUR: Following their local preview at the launch of the Mercedes-Benz EQS 450+ in July, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia has today revealed the prices of the EQB 350 4Matic and EQC 400 4Matic electric vehicles (EVs) at RM328,888 and RM388,888 respectively.

Prices are on-the-road without insurance but with 10% sales tax.

The EQB 350 is the first compact luxury sports utility vehicle (SUV) with seating for seven persons.

The SUV comes with Widescreen Cockpit, and Artico man-made leather with cupertino fabric in a two-tone rosé gold and titanium grey pearl.

Its high voltage battery with a usable energy content of 66.5kWh, supports up to 11kW AC charging and up to 100kW DC charging.

Performance is rated at 215kW (292hp) with 520Nm of torque for 0-100kph sprint of 6.2 seconds and a top speed of 180kph.

The EQB 350 also promises a driving range of up to 423km on a single charge.

Meanwhile, the EQC 400 seats five persons but is a larger SUV compared with the EQB 350.

Featuring the AMG Line exterior and AMG bodystyling with 20-inch AMG multi-spoke light-alloy wheels, the EQC 400 also gets aluminium-look running boards with rubber studs, Multineam headlights and rain sensor-activated wipers.

It also has Widescreen Cockpit, aluminium-look trim with the multifunction sports steering wheel in nappa leather and leather upholstery in leather black.

The high voltage battery has an usable energy content of 80kWh and can deliver a driving range of up to 437km on a single charge.

Its two electric motors provide an output of 300kW (408hp) and 760Nm of torque for a 0-100kph dash in 5.1 seconds and a maximum speed of 180kph.

EQC 400 also suppoorts 11kW AC charging and up to 110kW DC charging.


Kia India releases first image of Sonet compact SUV

                MUMBAI: Kia Motors India has revealed the first official rendering of the new production-ready Kia Sonet compact SUV.

The Sonet concept was unveiled for the first time at the 2020 Delhi Auto Expo.

The Sonet will be the second ‘made in India’ car from Kia, following the introduction of the Kia Seltos.

The Sonet is targeted at a younger generation who are tech-savvy, aspirational and socially connected.

There are currently no plans to bring the Sonet to Europe.

Kia’s rendering of the Sonet emphasise the brand’s dynamic DNA, merging emotive design with a premium and youthful appeal.

The bold design of the compact SUV combines Kia’s signature design traits, such as the prominent ‘tiger nose’ grille, with a three-dimensional ‘stepwell’ geometric grille mesh for a strong visual impression.

Its aggressive stance indicates its rugged appeal, while showcasing the car’s India-inspired influences in Kia’s signature grille.

“With the new Kia Sonet, we had the ambition to give this compact SUV a strong and muscular character found only in much larger vehicles. With this in mind, we have designed what we believe is a great SUV with a uniquely sporty attitude, a confident stance and a dynamic silhouette. We also gave the new Kia Sonet an uncompromising attention to detail and a selection of colours and materials that could have only been inspired by the great cultural heritage that our designers found all over India,” said Karim Habib, senior vice president and head of Kia Design Center at Kia Motors Corp.


Tesla hits near bottom in Consumer Reports reliability survey

The bad ratings on the latest Tesla Model S are attributed to mechanical issues, says Consumer Reports. — Image from Consumer Reports
DETROIT: Tesla Inc’s high-end Model S sedan lost its “recommended” rating and the electric carmaker slid overall by six spots to almost the bottom in Consumer Reports magazine’s annual reliability survey.

Every domestic automaker landed in the bottom half of the magazine’s new-car reliability rankings, which include data collected for more than 500,000 vehicles. The survey, which ranked 29 brands in the US market, was released on Wednesday.

“It’s the complexities that have really dragged down Tesla,” said Jake Fisher, the magazine’s director of auto testing. “The majority of the problems that we’re seeing with Tesla truly are mechanical issues.”

The Model S appears similar to the model launched six years ago, but Tesla has made significant mechanical and software changes over the past few years, including making air suspension and all-wheel-drive standard, he said. That can hurt reliability as more complexity is added.

Tesla said it had streamlined and simplified Model S configurations, not made them more complex. It also said the issues cited by owners in the Consumer Reports survey had previously been addressed by the carmaker, including with over-the-air software updates.

“Not only are our cars the safest and best performing vehicles available today, but we take feedback from our customers very seriously and quickly implement improvements,” the company said in a statement.

Tesla said that was why the Model S has been top ranked on Consumer Reports’ owner satisfaction survey every year since 2013, when the carmaker was first included.

Toyota Motor Corp’s Lexus and Toyota brands took the top two spots in the survey, as they have for six consecutive years. The survey results can be found at CR.org/reliability.

The magazine’s annual survey of new vehicle reliability predicts which cars will give owners fewer or more problems than their competitors, based on data collected. Its scorecard is influential among consumers and industry executives.

Tesla’s ranking slid to No. 27, ahead of only General Motors Co’s Cadillac brand and Volvo.

The Model S, which starts at US$74,500, dropped to “Below Average” from “Above Average” last year, and its overall score denied it Consumer Reports’ “Recommended” tag. Owners reported suspension problems and other issues, including problems with the extending door handle, the magazine said.

Tesla’s Model X SUV remained “Much Worse Than Average” with ongoing problems, including with the falcon-wing doors and centre display screen. The Model 3 sedan, seen as key to Tesla’s profitability, debuted with “Average” reliability.

In May, Consumer Reports recommended the Model 3 after its latest tests showed a software update improved the car’s braking. It has maintained that rating.

Tesla was scheduled to report third-quarter results after the market close on Wednesday.

Other domestic brand rankings included: Ford Motor Co’s Ford and Lincoln brands at No. 18 and 20; GM’s Buick, Chevrolet and GMC brands at No. 19, 23 and 25; and Fiat Chrysler Automobiles’ Dodge, Jeep, Chrysler and Ram brands at No. 21, 22, 24 and 26, respectively.

Rounding out the survey’s top five were Japan’s Mazda Motor Corp, which registered the biggest gain, by nine spots; Subaru and Hyundai Motor Co’s Kia brand.


New MINI comes with unusual pricing strategy in US

The 2019 MINI Oxford Edition.
NEW YORK: MINI has just announced a brand new entry level trim for its 2019 Hardtop model that's unashamedly aimed at a youthful audience.

The new Oxford Edition will be the most affordable version of the MINI available to buyers in the United States, which all sounds very good. However, there is a catch, and the catch is that to be allowed to buy one, buyers will either have to be in college or have recently graduated from college.

It's not unusual for some products to be designed, marketed and priced specifically at young buyers and students.

Computer software often comes in very affordable versions for students and teachers, and in various parts of the world there are government-backed schemes to help the young buy their first home.

In the US there are already lots of discount schemes to make buying a new vehicle more affordable for military veterans, but they're not like this offer because they are regular vehicles that can be bought at a discount by qualifying consumers.

The previous most affordable MINI was the Classic, but the new Oxford Edition is US$2,150 (RM8,900) cheaper than that one.

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And as if that in itself isn't enough to make the new model a tempting offer, the Oxford Edition is also much better equipped than the Classic.

The Classic is only available in red, black and silver, but the new model adds British Racing Green and Starlight Blue to the available colour palette. On top of that, the Oxford Edition also gains bigger 17-inch alloy wheels, heated seats and a panoramic sunroof as standard equipment.

Also, the automatic transmission that's a US$1,250 (RM5,190) option with the Classic is standard with the new model.

MINI says the additional features are worth an additional US$6,900 (RM29,000), and that comes on top of the US$2,150 lower price of the Oxford Edition.

To be able to buy one, you need to be a full- or part-time student enrolled in a 2-year, 4-year or graduate school program at an accredited college or university. Alternatively, if you've graduated from one of those programs within 12 months of buying the car you're also eligible.

While few of us would criticise a manufacturer making a model that's affordable for younger buyers, it does raise the question of how those not eligible for the scheme will now view the MINI Classic.

Someone standing in a showroom looking at an entry level car and being told they can't have the one with the better specification that's also much cheaper than the cheapest one they can buy might be tempted to consider their options very carefully.


Chinese regulators order ride-hailing firms to shape up

An electric vehicle of Caocao Zhuanche is shown at a 2016 trade fair in Zhengzhou, Henan province. — Reuters
BEIJING: Chinese regulators summoned 11 ride-hailing firms including Didi Global Inc, Geely's Caocao and Meituan's ride-hailing unit to a meeting, the transport ministry said today, to discuss points of concern in the sector.

At the meeting held on Wednesday, authorities highlighted the hiring of unqualified drivers and use of promotions that disrupt fair market order, the ministry said in a statement.

Regulators urged ride-hailing companies to comply with relevant rules and protect data security, the ministry said.

Regulators have frequently held talks with the ride-hailing industry, which offers tens of millions of rides a day in China, on topics of driver salaries, safety and other issues.

Regulators launched a cybersecurity probe into Didi, China's top ride-hailing company, after its New York initial public offering in June. Since then other companies have jostled to attract new customers.


CarSifu.my moves into new digital home

                PETALING JAYA: Welcome to the new home of CarSifu.my

Change is inevitable and with that in mind, we have revamped the site to make it even more user-friendly. You will see immediately it’s more visual and has a new car-buying guide with a car finder feature prominently positioned. The site has also better compatibility with your smartphone, so you can have your daily digest of automotive reviews, launches and other news in just a few flicks of the finger.

Experience it here and now.


Porsche's Panamera makeover to arrive in October with new muscle

                STUTTGART: Porsche is revamping the Panamera with a visual makeover, technical upgrades and, above all, new engines.

According to the manufacturer, the new sports sedan will arrive in Europe in mid-October, where prices for the unchanged 2.9 litre V6 petrol engine with 330 hp and rear-wheel drive will start at 91,345 euros.

The three versions Standard, Executive (with an extended wheelbase) and Sport Turismo (with a steep tailgate) can be recognis ed from the outside only by new aprons and headlights and inside mainly by a different steering wheel.

According to Porsche, however, there is a lot going on under the bonnet: The previous top model is being transformed from a Turbo to a Turbo S, with an increase in output of more than 10 per cent. It now generates a horsepower of 630hp from a 4.0-litre V8 engine.

This means that in the best-case scenario, it accelerates from a standstill to 100 km/h in 3.1 seconds and reaches up to 315kph. Porsche puts consumption as 10.7 litres (245 g/km CO2).

The Panamera GTS is also getting more muscle and will be listed in the future with 480 hp instead of 460hp.

At the same time, Porsche is expanding its range of plug-in hybrids and now also offers a Turbo 4S E-Hybrid with a system output of 560 hp.

Because the battery capacity has also been increased, Porsche promises up to 30-per-cent greater range in pure electric mode for all three part-time electric vehicles in the Panamera family. The newcomer, which can reach speeds of up to 298kph, has a range of up to 64 kilometres.


Ford Ranger Raptor: Price reveal at KLIMS 2018

                SETIA ALAM: The new Ford Ranger Raptor was previewed at Setia City Convention Centre today, during the launch of the 2019 Ranger pick-up truck line-up.

The price of the Raptor will be announced at the Kuala Lumpur International Motor Show, which will be held from 23 November to 2 December at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (Mitec).

To recap, in April, Ford Thailand opened bookings for the Ranger Raptor, priced at almost 1.7 million baht (RM210,476) at the 2018 Bangkok Motor Show.

The Raptor pick-up truck was launched in Thailand earlier in February, with a 10-speed transmission combined with a new 2.0-litre Bi-Turbo diesel engine delivering 213PS and 500Nm of torque.

The Ford-designed and Ford-built 10-speed automatic transmission is shared with the F-150 Raptor.

The same powertrain can be found in the flagship Ford Ranger 2.0L Wildtrak Automatic (4x4) priced at RM144,888 which also has exclusive features like Cruise control (adaptive type), Active noise cancellation, Forward collision warning, Lane departure warning and assist, Semi automatic parallel parking as well as Autonomous emergency braking (AEB) with vehicle and pedestrian detection.

2018 Ford Ranger Raptor

- 2.0-liter Bi-Turbo diesel engine
- 10-speed transmission
- 213ps and 500Nm of torque
- Position Sensitive Damping (PSD) shock absorbers made by Fox Racing Shox
- All-terrain BF Goodrich 285/70 R17 tyres
- Electric Power Assisted Steering (EPAS)
- Terrain Management System (TMS)
- SYNC 3 voice activated infotainment system
- Satellite Navigation System
- Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
- Roll Mitigation Function
- Trailer Sway Control (TSC)
- Hill Start Assist (HSA)
- Hill Descent Control (HDC)
- Load Adaptive Control (LAC)
- Rear view camera
- 8-inch colour LCD screen
- Intelligent Access: keyless door lock/unlock and engine ignition
- EZ Lift Tailgate: 66 percent reduction in initial lift force

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Nissan unveils lunar rover prototype jointly developed with Japan space agency

                YOKOHAMA: Nissan has unveiled a lunar rover prototype jointly developed with the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) at its Nissan Futures event here.

The JAXA Space Exploration Innovation Hub Center is conducting research on lunar rovers — a key technology for space exploration. Nissan has been working with JAXA on driving controllability of the rovers since January 2020.

A lunar rover must be able to traverse the Moon's powdery, rocky and undulating terrain and be energy efficient. Furthermore, energy sources for operating vehicles in space are limited.

Nissan's research applies the motor control technology it has developed through its production of mass-market electric vehicles such as the LEAF as well as the e-4ORCE all-wheel control technology featured on the all-new Ariya electric crossover. In particular, it is e-4ORCE that is boosting the lunar rover's performance over tricky terrain.

Nissan's e-4ORCE technology precisely controls all four wheels independently, providing the driver with confidence in various conditions.

In its joint research with JAXA, Nissan is evolving e-4ORCE technology to improve its performance in sandy terrain and other harsh conditions. When cars are driven in sand their wheels frequently spin and dig in, impeding progress.

A high level of driving skill is required to avoid getting stuck. To meet this need, Nissan has developed driving-force controls that minimise the amount of wheel spin in accordance with surface conditions.

The Nissan Ariya e-4ORCE model is equipped with front and rear electric motors. The torque of each motor can be individually controlled to provide traction during acceleration. When decelerating, the amount of regeneration is individually adjusted for the front and rear motors. When braking, e-4ORCE minimizes dive and body shake.

Around corners, the torque of the front and rear motors and the braking performance of the four wheels are managed to ensure smooth and comfortable handling. These controls enable drivers of all skill levels to confidently navigate various road conditions, including rain and snow.

The Nissan Ariya e-4ORCE model is scheduled to start sales in Japan in the summer of 2022.


542bhp Jaguar F-Pace SVR revealed ahead of New York Auto Show

NEW YORK: Not too long ago, few people would ever have dreamed that Jaguar would build an SUV. The British luxury brand had a long and proud reputation for producing luxurious sedans and beautiful, powerful sports cars, but left SUV duties to its formidable Land Rover sister-brand.

The F-Pace was therefore the company's first foray into the world of the high-riding SUV, and its roaring success has now seen Jaguar roll out the F-Pace SVR here.

The Jaguar F-Pace SVR combines the company's newfound SUV prowess with its pedigree of producing high-performance sports cars. It has all the SUV style and luxury we've come to expect from the fabulous F-Pace, but this one developed by Jaguar Land Rover's Special Vehicle Operations (SVO) division has the company's now-familiar 5.0-liter supercharged V-8 under the hood.

In this case the engine develops as much as 542 bhp and 683Nm of torque, which translates to a very impressive top speed of 283kph and an even more impressive 0 to 100kph time of just 4.1 seconds.

There's much more to the SVR than just a big, powerful engine though. This potent F-Pace also boasts stiffer springs, wider and lighter forged alloy wheels, bigger brakes, an electronic active rear differential, a lightweight variable active exhaust, specially tuned adaptive suspension software, electric steering, an eight-speed automatic gearbox, all-wheel drive and a Dynamic Driving Mode.

Aerodynamics have also been tweaked by adding larger air intakes, rear bumper side strakes, vents on the wings to lower wheel-arch pressure, reduce lift and increase cooling, and a unique hood with air vents to remove hot air from the engine compartment as well as to look good. More aesthetic enhancements include flared wheel arches and a body kit that delivers a considerably more muscular appearance to that of the standard F-Pace, and at the back there's a big, fat quad exhaust.

The interior hasn't been left out either, so there are thinner, lightweight sport seats that stay with the luxury nature of Jaguar by being covered in very smart quilted leather. The back also gets sportier seats with a similar fixed headrest design to the ones in the front. There's also the pistol-like sport gear selector from the Jaguar F-Type that replaces the standard rotary shifter design we're used to seeing in the F-Pace.


Man apologises for installing 11 speed bumps on street next to his home

                BESUT: A Terengganu man who illegally installed 11 asphalt speed bumps on the street next to his house in Kampung Padang Luas, Jertih, on Monday have apologised for his action.

Nor Muhamad Roslam Harun, 40, admitted his mistakes of building so many speed bumps for a distance of less than 40m and creating an unnecessary hassle for other residents to get to the main road.

"Police officers came to see me yesterday morning and asked me to remove all the speed bumps that I installed.

"So, I hired a bulldozer operator to remove all the speed bumps on the street including the two original ones,” he said.

The case went viral on social media a few days ago after a man uploaded a picture of the "new speed bumps” on the street heading to his house, which he claimed to have been installed by his neighbour.

Nor Muhamad Roslam said he installed the speed bumps because he was often disturbed by the noises of vehicles using the street.

"The noises from cars and motorcycles are disrupting my sleep. I’m so stressed out and I also have other health issues.

"Actually, I wanted to make speed humps, but the asphalt hardened so quickly before they could be flattened, causing them to become bumps and made the road inaccessible to all cars except four-wheel drive,” he said, adding that he spent RM1,080 of his Employees Provident Fund (EPF) i-Sinar money to install the speed bumps.


GHL Systems to offer customised vehicle road tax and insurance renewal service

                PETALING JAYA: GHL Systems Bhd has tied up with independent personal finance website Loanstreet to offer customised vehicle road tax and insurance renewal services.

The new service will be available via GHL’s Grow, which offers structured financial and non-financing products and services to its existing merchant base, micro, small medium enterprises and consumers.

GHL, a leading payment solutions provider, said in a statement yesterday that the service enables end-to-end road tax and insurance delivery services right up to the consumer’s doorstep for a quick and hassle-free process.

“The insurance package is fully customisable for any additional coverage add-ons, ranging from windscreen, natural disasters (flood) to liability claim from passengers.

“Consumers are able to compare the multiple options available in the market on a single page. They can pick and choose, while deciding for themselves what they are most comfortable with.”

In the same statement, GHL chief executive officer Sean S. Hesh said the company was offering value-added servicesd by diversifying into payment acceptance services.

“Online road tax and insurance renewal gives consumers choices and options and forms part of our strategy to expand our value added services offerings to our merchant base, as well as to the public at large.”

He noted that the Road Transport Department and post offices’ capacity to handle physical renewals are restricted due to tighter standard operating procedures on social distancing under the movement control order (MCO).

Meanwhile, Robin Ang, director of Finology Sdn Bhd (the holding company of Loanstreet) said Loanstreet was the first website in Malaysia that offered customers the option of renewing their motorcycle road tax and insurance online.

“We’ve been steadily adding on new products and insurers since then. Today, we are proud to support GHL’s vision to expand their offerings to the public and enable this for GHL’s user base. “

“The online renewal option bodes well for the consumers as physical movement has been restricted due to the re-imposition of the MCO and allows renewals to be done without the risk of physical exposure to Covid-19.”

GHL’s reach spans across seven countries, namely Malaysia, Philippines, Thailand, Indonesia, Cambodia, Singapore and Australia, boasting a vast footprint of 380,800 payment touch points across the region.

GHL is the leading payment acquirer in Asean for over 100 global and regional payment schemes and channels, processing over RM1.5bil payment transactions per month.

The company rolled out Grow in October last year. Its products, such as micro financing, lends up to RM100,000 with zero early settlement charges to aid cash flow issues, a major concern during the uncertainties caused by Covid-19.


Going digital: Private vehicles no longer need to display 'road tax' stickers after registering

                PETALING JAYA: Private vehicle owners do not need to deal with messy road tax stickers from today once they have gotten their digital version of the road tax, says Anthony Loke Siew Fook.

The Transport Minister further said that the digital display of motor vehicle road tax stickers (LKM) and Malaysian driving licences (LMM) would be the solution to he constant complaints of vehicle owners and drivers.

In a statement issued today, Loke said that an in-house pilot project is now under way to begin the use of the digital display mode of the e-LKM and e-LMM.

Loke's announcement has met with mixed reactions from the public. A few hours later, he followed up with a Facebook post to answer some questions posed by the public.

The e-LKM is the e-version of the road tax sticker for privately owned vehicles, whereas the e-LMM is the e-version of the Malaysian driving licence.

Both e-LKM and e-LMM can be applied through the Road Transport Department (JPJ) website at https://public.jpj.gov.my or MyJPJ app from today.

Loke said that with a digital roadtax, vehicle owners can do away with the display of the hardcopy of the road tax stickers, as is currently required by law.

The amendment to the law to enable this will be gazetted using the powers allotted to the Transport Ministry by law.

The whole digitalisation process of both the roadtax and driving licences will, however, be implemented in phases.

Loke said that those who are not ready to go digital can still display their roadtax stickers on their vehicles during the interim period until the digitalision phases are fully completed.

"I had received various feedback on the road tax stickers. The Transport Ministry will alleviate the people’s difficulty with the road tax stickers and Malaysian driving licences through digitalisation.

"In line with this initiative, the provision under Section 20 of the Road Transport Act 1987 (Act 333), which states that all motor vehicle licences must be stuck and displayed on the vehicle will not be enforced anymore for vehicle owners under the first phase," said Loke.

For further information, the public may contact JPJ at infodigital@jpj.gov.my or contact its hotline at 03-2724 2522.

Applications for the e-LKM and e-LMM can be made through https://www.mot.gov.my/en/land/operators/driving-licenses.


Cops go after traffic offenders with arrest warrants

                KUCHING: Sarawak police will look for 400 traffic offenders with three or more outstanding warrants of arrest when Ops Warta gets under way next week.

State traffic officer-in-charge DSP Alexson Naga Chabu said the multiple offenders were among 6,000 or so individuals with outstanding arrest warrants dating back to 2013.

“We have the full list of offenders and it has been distributed to all district traffic chiefs for action.

Of the 6,000 offenders, about 50% are in Kuching and the rest are in other districts,” he told a press conference at the state police headquarters yesterday.

DSP Alexson said the warrants of arrest were issued against those who failed to settle their summonses after three months.

“We are giving two weeks from Monday for people to check and settle their summonses. After this period, we will carry out operations to trace the offenders and bring them to court.

“We will set up roadblocks and go to their premises.

“There will be no more excuse for them,” he said.

He called on the offenders to come forward and settle their outstanding summonses before action was taken against them.

He also advised the public to check if they had any outstanding summonses and to pay up as quickly as possible.

Motorists can check for summonses online via www.rmp.gov.my, www.rilek.com.my or www.myeg.com.my or at the nearest police station.

To facilitate payment, the opening hours of traffic counters in Kuching, Sibu, Miri, Bintulu, Sarikei, Limbang and other large districts will be extended until 10pm daily.

Traffic counters in smaller districts like Song and Belaga will open daily until 5pm.


The EQE: Mercedes to launch another fully electric saloon mid-2022

                STUTTGART: After just releasing its electric E-Class saloon EQS model, Mercedes is already paving the way for another more sustainable limousine: the EQE.

With the launch scheduled for next summer, the electrics will be a year ahead of the generation change for the conventional E-Class, said series boss Christoph Starzynski during final tuning drives.

Mercedes' second fully electric limousine uses the same technology as the EQS, but is a size smaller.

It only measures 4.95 metres in length, or 30cm less than its predecessor, and the wheelbase is around 10cm shorter, with 3.11m.

The EQS's tailgate has been replaced with a conventional boot with 430 litres of space.

Because of the limited space available, the EQE only runs with the smaller of the two battery variants from the electric flagship, but still has a net capacity of around 90kWh - and thus an above-average range of 660km.

The EQE is charged at up to 170 kW. Under ideal conditions, it only takes 15 minutes to charge the battery enough for 250km.

The standard EQE 350 model comes with a 292hp rear motor. Other motor variants are to follow later, including one with all-wheel drive. In terms of the driving experience, the EQE will differ from the EQS as well as from the conventional E-Class and S-Class, Starzynski says.

Mercedes' latest EV comes with a unique set-up for optional rear-axle steering and air suspension, for example, intended to make the EQE the most manageable and dynamic of the company's luxury class limousines.

The model has been designed for the most progressive among E-Class customers, but unlike the internal combustion models, the EQE will not be available as an estate in the future.

However, Mercedes is already planning an EQE SUV model, as a more sustainable alternative to the GLE and as a replacement for the estate or T model.


Electric cars worse for the environment than diesel cars, says German study

                MUNICH: Electric cars have long been seen as an environmentally friendly alternative to dirty diesels, but research is showing that the amount of damage caused by electric cars is, in fact, worse than diesels.

So-called "zero emission" cars only help the climate on paper and are actually worse for the environment than diesel vehicles, according to a new study calling into question the eco-friendliness of electric cars.

Christoph Buchal, a Cologne physics professor, compiled the report with colleagues Hans-Dieter Karl and Hans-Werner Sinn for the Ifo Institute for Economic Research. It was published on Wednesday.

As soon as CO2 emissions from the production of batteries and the non-renewable methods used to create German electricity are taken into account, an electric car burdens the climate 11 to 28 per cent more than a diesel car, the study found.

A lot of energy is used in the recovery and processing of the lithium, cobalt and manganese used for the cars' batteries.

A battery for a Tesla Model 3 produces 11 to 15 tons of CO2, the study said. With a battery life of 10 years and capacity to travel 15,000km per year, that alone would mean 73 to 98 grams of CO2 per kilometre, according to the authors.

When the CO2 emissions resulting from grid electricity are also taken into account, in reality, the Tesla emits between 156 and 181 grams of CO2 per kilometre, and thus significantly more than a comparable diesel Mercedes, according to the study.

The fact that the European Union classifies electric cars as zero-emission cars is a deception, the researchers said.

The CO2 limit of 59 grams per kilometre prescribed for vehicles from 2030 corresponds to a consumption of 2.2 litres of diesel or 2.6 litres of petrol per 100 kilometres and is "technically unrealistic," they said.

Carmakers plan to switch the vast majority of their offering to electric cars, but the study's authors say that for the climate, methane-powered engines would be better as their CO2 emissions are one third lower than those of a diesel.