Missile maker Mitsubishi Electric adapts guidance systems to steer self-driving cars

                TOKYO: Mitsubishi Electric Corp., a supplier of air-to-air missiles to Japan's armed forces, is looking to adapt the technologies it originally developed for military use to help autonomous driving cars detect obstacles and avoid collisions.

Components such as millimeter-wave radars, sonars, sensors and cameras long dash — some of which were developed to guide missiles long dash — are being adapted for use in self-driving vehicles that will hit the roads by 2020, Katsumi Adachi, senior chief engineer at Mitsubishi's automotive equipment division, said in an interview. It has received orders for automatic braking systems and instruments that help a vehicle keep to its lane, he said.

The Japanese supplier is seeking to catch up with Continental AG, Denso Corp. and Hitachi Automotive Systems Ltd. in providing assistance technologies that are becoming increasingly standard offerings in new vehicle models.

While its competitors have a headstart, Adachi says Mitsubishi will be able to offer superior systems next year that will benefit from its expertise in high-precision sensors and electric-power steering systems.

“All we have to do is to put together the components that we already have,” Adachi said in Ako city, about 600 kilometers west of Tokyo, where Mitsubishi has a course to test cars installed with its systems. “None of our competitors have such a wide array of capabilities.”

The global market for driver-assistance features such as collision warning and emergency auto braking is projected by IHS Automotive to double to about US$17 billion in annual revenue by 2021. Mitsubishi's push into this segment follows slowing growth in some of its businesses such as home appliances.

The challenge for Mitsubishi would be to bring down costs for using technologies developed for industries such as aerospace, according to Goro Tanamachi, a Tokyo-based analyst at IHS.

“Cost-cutting requests are much more severe in autos than aerospace,” he said. “I wonder if it's possible for them to bring down the cost of the systems to the levels manufacturers can use for cheap, low-end cars.”

Mitsubishi will begin production of the components for lane-keeping and automatic braking systems in the year starting April 2017. And in the following fiscal year it may also start manufacturing automatic parking systems, according to Adachi.

The Japanese company will combine the sensing technologies with its quasi-zenith satellite system that would send up-to- date location data to vehicles, Adachi said. Mitsubishi will have three more such satellites in geosynchronous orbit over Japan by around 2018 to gather data round the clock, he said.

Mitsubishi, which demonstrated an autonomous driving prototype at the Tokyo Motor Show last year after starting development of driver-assistance technologies two years back, was encouraged by the demand for the EyeSight system in Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd.'s Subaru brand, according to Adachi.

Subaru's system combines lane-keeping steering assistance, pre- collision braking control and adaptive cruise control to enhance safety.

Sales from advanced driver assistance systems are expected to match its power steering or alternator business, Adachi said without providing a timeframe. The two businesses are the biggest contributors to the revenue from its automotive components division, which accounts for about half the company's annual sales of 1.3 trillion yen (US%1.4 billion) from the industrial automation segment, he said.

“At this point we still have a lot of challenges,” said Adachi. “There's a long way to go.”


This is the Stellantis logo

                PARIS: Groupe PSA and Fiat Chrysler Automobiles N.V. on Monday revealed the logo of Stellantis, the new group that will result from their 50:50 merger.

The logo symbolises the rich heritage of Stellantis’ founding companies and the unique combined strengths of the new group’s portfolio of 14 storied automotive brands, as well as the diversity of professional backgrounds of its employees working in all the regions.

The Stellantis name – whose Latin root “stello” means “to brighten with stars” – is the visual representation of the new company that aims to be one of the new leaders in sustainable mobility.

The unveiling of the logo is the latest step towards the completion of the merger project, which is expected to occur by the end of the first quarter of 2021, subject to customary closing conditions, including approval by both companies’ shareholders at their respective Extraordinary General Meetings and the compliance to antitrust and other regulatory requirements.


Avis Malaysia celebrates 46th anniversary

                PETALING JAYA: In celebration of its 46 th anniversary, Avis Malaysia is offering customers up to 46% savings on published rates for car rental bookings from Sept 15 to Oct 31 October, 2018.

The savings are eligible for the rental period from Sept 15 to Dec 31, 2018.

Avis Malaysia is also organising a special ‘46th Anniversary Contest’ in social media channels such as Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and Twitter from Sept 19 to Oct 31, 2018. Social media fans and customers only need to just like, follow, share, watch a video, and answer simple questions to qualify for the contest.

Lucky winners will be selected via lucky draw to enjoy a one-night stay at a luxurious hotel in Port Dickson and Penang respectively, along with a complimentary 3-days car rental voucher for a Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk and many other attractive prizes.

“These activities are carried out to extend our appreciation to all our customers who have supported us all these years and we look forward to many more years ahead of offering quality services on professional mobility solutions in Malaysia”, said Chief Operating Officer of Avis Malaysia, Mohammad Shanaz.

Avis Malaysia began operations as a licensee of Avis Rent A Car in 1972 and has been part of DRB-HICOM Group since 2014.


Shared handlebars: Coronavirus halts urban electric scooter movement

The urban mobility movement has begun responding to fears that their modes of transport could help spread the coronavirus in cities. — dpa
MUNICH: The coronavirus pandemic, making an impact in near all aspects of life, has begun to leave its mark on the electric mobility revolution in cities around the world.

Electric scooters and electric bicycles for hire with an app have barely just established themselves as a mode of transport in many cities, and yet they are already disappearing again over fears they may accelerate the spread of the virus.

The use of electric bikes from Uber's Jump service, which can be found in cities across Europe, North and South America and Australia, has temporarily been suspended in certain cities, the mobility company has announced.

Meanwhile electric scooter providers Lime and Bird are also halting services in parts of their global network until further notice, they announced on Wednesday.

"Loving cities means protecting them too," Lime said in a statement. "For now, we're pausing Lime service to help people stay put and stay safe."

Users of Voi's electric scooters have been urged to wear gloves and refrain from handshakes when greeting fellow riders in the wake of the coronavirus outbreak.

Voi says it will continue operations, but will adjust its fleets. According to a spokesperson, its Call a Bike service will also remain available.

While there are still concerns about taxi drivers and potential infections in Uber's "pool" journeys, the ride-hailing company's taxi services appear not to be affected in European cities.

Lyft and Uber are meanwhile both calling on drivers and riders to disinfect their cars and keep them clean.

Transport industries are among those to be severely hit by the rapid spread of the coronavirus, which has halted production at factories, help up supply chains and led to some of the world's biggest auto industry events being cancelled.

Fears that taxi drivers would be particularly at risk of infection rose after a driver in Taiwan became the first in the country to die of the virus in mid-February, despite having no history of overseas travel.

Lyft has said it would provide funds to any driver confirmed to have the Covid-19 lung disease caused by the virus, while Uber is offering payment to cover the 14 days of required quarantine for individuals with the virus, according to US media.


Observer tells why Govt not taking over Proton

                PETALING JAYA: The Government has no plans to nationalise loss-making Proton Holdings Bhd after it subscribed to preference shares in the company.

If the Government converts the 1.25 billion redeemable convertible cumulative preference shares (RCCPS), which it has proposed to subscribe from Proton, it would become the largest shareholder in the carmaker with a 79% stake.

But this won’t be the case, said a source familiar with the matter.

“The Government will not take over Proton,” he said, adding that Proton had transitioned from a government-owned company into a fully private entity.

On Monday, Proton issued up to RM1.25bil worth of convertible preference shares to the Government in a move to shore up its finances.

“The preference shares is in reference to the RM1.5bil given to Proton earlier this year. The Government has granted a soft loan for Proton and one of the conditions for the loan is it must have a foreign strategic partner and a sound transformation plan,” said the source.

“I believe that the conditional assistance package rendered to Proton, as well as insight from the new Proton Task Force will provide a fresh management perspective that will lead to Proton’s sustainability and success in the future.

The issuance of the RCCPS was completed yesterday. The Cabinet had in April approved a conditional soft loan amounting to RM1.5bil to Proton in which a bulk of that money would be used to pay its vendors.

DRB-Hicom Bhd, which has a 100%-stake in Proton, said on Monday the Government agreed to subscribe to 1.25 billion RCCPS issued by Proton via GovCo Holdings Bhd by way of RM1.25bil cash payment.

DRB-Hicom shares closed up 17 sen to RM1.03 yesterday, its highest since April 20. It was one of the more actively traded stock with 19.88 million shares done.

With a tenure of 15 years, AmInvestment Bank said in a report yesterday that the RCCPS carry a 4% dividend and a conversion ratio of one RCCPS to 1.152 Proton shares, giving a conversion price of 87 sen per Proton share.

“Proton is given a five-year grace period in respect of the dividend, conversion and redemption. It retains the right to redeem the RCCPS at any time, and holds the option to partially or fully convert the RCCPS after the grace period.

“GovCo will not be entitled to call for conversion.”

As at June 6, 2016, Proton’s paid-up capital amounted to RM550.2mil comprising 549.2 million shares.

According to DRB-Hicom, the proposed RCCPS issuance will enable Proton to regularise its cashflow and settle the long outstanding balance payable to various local and international creditors, vendors and suppliers.

“This will also help rebuild the vendors/suppliers’ confidence in Proton,” it said.

The conditions precedent, which have been fulfilled, included the submission to a government-led task force of a turnaround plan that entails an outline plan on the relocation of Proton’s Shah Alam plant to Tanjung Malim and a strategic plan for domestic and international expansion, said AmInvestment Bank.

The Government’s Performance Management and Delivery Unit will monitor Proton’s business recovery plan.

“Proton will within a year endeavour to identify a strategic and renowned partner that will assist in research and development for it to become a global player.”

The research house added that if Proton could not do so, the parties would discuss options for it to achieve the objective.

“This, we believe, opens the door for the potential entry of a strategic equity investor – one which would require the Government’s nod. The exercise, which does not require DRB-Hicom shareholders’ approval, is positive insofar as it regularises Proton’s cash flow and keeps it as an ongoing concern while it seeks a foreign partner.”

DRB-Hicom saw its earnings dragged by Proton in its fourth quarter ended March 31, 2016. The company reported a net loss of RM790.76mil from a previous net profit of RM89.8mil in the corresponding quarter of 2015.

The weaker earnings was mainly due to Proton’s lower vehicle sales, volatility in foreign exchange (forex) rates and weak consumer sentiment.

The reduced profit margins was due to weak forex which affected Proton’s raw material cost and the lack of new models during the financial period. In addition, Proton made provisions relating to certain non-recurring charges which had affected its bottom line.

DRB-Hicom’s revenue, meanwhile, dropped 17.98% to RM2.63bil.

According to Public Investment Bank Research, Proton has total borrowing of around RM1.7bil, which accounted for 24% of DRB-Hicom’s total debt.

The research house said the issuance of the RCCPS would reduce DRB-Hicom’s 2016 net gearing from 0.88 times to 0.58 times.

“We are positive on this as we believe it can help to regularise the cash flow of Proton during a challenging operating environment at its automotive segment and accelerate the turnaround plans at Proton.”


Jaguar launches special edition F-Type

LONDON: A new derivate of Jaguar's potent coupé the F-Type 400 Sport is on its way. But if you want one, you'll have to be quick.

The new version will only be available for one year and then production will cease. Those that get one will find a 3-liter supercharged V6 under the hood with 395bhp on tap, a premium interior with chrome trim, a special exterior paint finish, bigger brakes and new 20-inch alloy wheels.

Customers will be able to plump for rear-wheel or all-wheel drive, manual or automatic transmission and for a hardtop or soft-top version. But regardless of transmission or roof material, the 400 Sport will come as standard with a system that will let the driver customize throttle response, damping rate on the suspension and the ferocity of gear changes.

As for those that aren't looking to upgrade their performance coupé this year, there is still good news as a host of the new features the 400 Sport is due to usher in will be coming to the existing range.

They include subtle updates to the front end and wholesale changes inside. The cabin now boasts lighter seats and a raft of technological advances including GoPro action cam integration via the new ReRun app. Simply connect your GoPro, head to the track and hit record. The resulting footage will have information such as vehicle speed, g-force, accelerator position and selected gear automatically overlaid.

There's also good news on the driver aid front. The car will now come with a semi-automated park-assist function. As well as maneuvering the vehicle into a parallel parking space, its sensors can tell the driver if the space being driven past is large enough to accommodate the car -- a brilliant feature for those that live in major cities.

Since the F-Type launched in 2012, it's clinched numerous design awards and has been key in re-establishing Jaguar on the world automotive stage. The company broke all sales records in 2016, selling 148,730 vehicles (up 77% from 2015) and will be looking to set new records over the next 12 months. Creating more derivatives of the F-Type to suit driving style - there are now 22 variations of the car available - will certainly help in this regard.

"It is particularly pleasing to see the Jaguar brand setting impressive new sales records," said Andy Goss, Jaguar Land Rover group sales operations director. "I am confident that in 2017 our British line-up will continue to expand and delight in markets across the world."

The F-Type 400 Sport will cost from £70,115 (RM382,000) when it goes on sale later this year.


GM says most new vehicles to get over-the-air upgrade tech by 2023

                DETROIT: General Motors Co said on Monday most of its global models will be capable of over-the-air software upgrades by 2023, as the automaker rolls out new vehicle electrical systems designed to securely handle heavy data traffic and software downloads from the Internet.

GM and other established automakers have been slow to catch up with electric automaker Tesla Inc, which has for years used smartphone-style over-the-air upgrade technology to change the function and feel of its vehicles overnight.

Earlier this month, for example, Tesla responded to reports about its vehicles catching on fire by pushing out an over-the-air update for battery management software.

GM executives have said in the past that matching Tesla’s use of over-the-air updates would require new vehicle electrical systems, and robust cybersecurity to assure that vehicles could not be tampered with by hackers.

GM did not specify what vehicle systems and features would be open to over-the-air updates, but said the new system “enables the adoption of functionality upgrades throughout the lifespan of the vehicle.”

In 2016, GM president Mark Reuss, who at that time was head of global product development, said the company would not use over-the-air updates for safety-critical systems such as brakes.

The new GM electronic systems will be capable of handling up to 4.5 terabytes of data processing power per hour, five times the capability of current GM vehicles, the company said in a statement.

The new GM electrical systems will be launched on the 2020 Cadillac CT5 sedan, due to begin production later this year, GM said.


Britain aims to have every new home wired for EV revolution

                LONDON: All new homes built in Britain will have charge points for electric vehicles under proposals outlined in a new strategy unveiled Monday by the Department for Transport (DfT), reported Xinhua.

Street lamps will also have built in power points where car batteries can be charged, said the DfT.

The department set out a new strategy outlining an ambition for at least 50 percent, and as many as 70 percent, of new car sales in Britain to be ultra low emission by 2030, alongside up to 40 percent of new vans. The government says it will take steps to enable a massive roll-out of infrastructure to support the electric vehicle revolution.

"The strategy sets the stage for the biggest technology advancement to hit UK roads since the invention of the combustion engine," said the DfT.

The proposals were outlined in the Road to Zero Strategy, which sets out plans to enable a massive expansion of green infrastructure across Britain, reduce emissions from the vehicles already on British roads, and drive the uptake of zero emission cars, vans and trucks.

"Together, the measures will put the UK at the forefront of a global revolution in motoring and help to deliver cleaner air, a better environment and a strong clean economy," the DfT said in a statement.

Transport secretary Chris Grayling said: "The coming decades are going to be transformative for our motor industry, our national infrastructure and the way we travel. We expect to see more change in the transport sector over the next 10 years than we have in the previous century."

Grayling said Britain's economy and society is expected to experience profound change, which is why the government has marked the Future of mobility as one of the four grand challenges as part of its modern Industrial Strategy.

"The Road to Zero Strategy sets out a clear path for Britain to be a world leader in the zero emission revolution - ensuring that the UK has cleaner air, a better environment and a stronger economy," added Grayling.

The government's mission, as part of Britain's modern Industrial Strategy, is to put the country at the forefront of an industry that is estimated to be worth around US$10 trillion every year by 2050.

 Grayling predicts the transport sector would see more changes over the next 10 years than in the last century . - AFP


Kia Grand Carnival buyer wins a Rio sedan

                KUALA LUMPUR: It was definitely an unforgettable day for a lucky customer Dr Atiqah Farah Zakaria who won a Kia Rio Sedan worth RM74,000.

This was after she booked the Kia Grand Carnival at the Malaysia Autoshow 2016.

The ear, nose and throat specialist was the winner of the “Buy a Car, Win a Kia” contest sponsored by Naza Kia Malaysia Sdn Bhd.

 Dr Atiqah Farah Zakaria, receiving the car from Datuk Samson Anand George, Group Chief Operating Officer, Automotive Group, Naza Corp Holdings Sdn Bhd.

“This is a wonderful surprise and a sheer coincidence that I am now winning another Kia car as I had booked the Kia Grand Carnival at the autoshow,” said Dr Atiqah, a mother of five children.

Dr Atiqah added that she would be using the Kia Rio as a daily working car while the Grand Carnival will be reserved for weekend trips to her hometown in Melaka.


Don't sell China-made cars in India, minister urges Tesla

                NEW DELHI: India’s Road Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari said he has asked Tesla Inc. to avoid selling China-made cars in India ahead of the electric-vehicle maker’s expected entry into the South Asian nation.

Tesla should “make cars in India, sell in India and export from India,” and rely on local suppliers, Gadkari said at an India Today Conclave event on Friday.

Tesla models in India will cost 3.5 million rupees (RM196,000) each and the government will provide whatever help the US carmaker needs to make a foray into the nation, he said.

The California-based carmaker said in August that it has received approval to make or import four EV models in India, according to a posting on the website of the country’s road transport and highways ministry.

India is trying to diversify its supply chains away from neighbouring China following deadly clashes between the world’s two most-populated nations along the disputed Himalayan border last year.

The Covid-19 pandemic and global trade tensions with China have intensified the need for countries around the world to move manufacturing bases out of the country to reduce supply-chain risks.


New Honda Civic Type R sets new lap record at Suzuka

                TOKYO: Honda today announced the all-new Civic Type R has set a new lap time record for a front-wheel drive car at the Suzuka circuit.

The final development car prior to the production model lapped the 5.8-km long circuit in 2 minutes 23.120 seconds, nearly 1 second less than the 2021 Civic Type R Limited Edition.

It may not seem much but in the world of high level performance every second shaved is a win. At the time, the previous Type R featured the ultimate level of lightweight and special equipment.

More power is expected from an improved 2-litre turbocharged petrol engine and a car packing a manual transmission. Note that the engine of the outgoing Civic Type R was able to make 316hp in Japan and Europe because of higher octane fuel but loses 10hp in markets everywhere else.

The all-new Civic Type R, expected to be Honda's last combustion engine-only car, is scheduled to make its debut in summer 2022. It will have to contend with the Toyota GR Corolla and VW Golf R, as well as the soon-to-launch new BMW M2 and Nissan Z.


Seven electric car myths debunked

                PETALING JAYA: There has been a lot of buzz recently around electric vehicles (EVs) with a leading EV manufacturer from China exploring the establishment of an Asean base in Kedah,

Malaysia Green Technology Corp (GreenTech Malaysia)’s plans to bring the Tesla Model S to Malaysia and their efforts to ramp up awareness and understanding of EVs through a recent stakeholder engagement session.

Yet many of us still have questions and doubts about EVs.

As we gear up for a shift to electric mobility in Malaysia, it is perhaps timely to get the facts rights.

 Mohamed AzrinMyth 1: EVs are just a fadFact: EV sales are booming; annual sales have skyrocketed by 1,002% from under 10,000 units in 2010 to over 300,000 units in 2014, and there are now over 665,000 electric cars worldwide.

Major automotive players are storming the EV market resulting in over 50 different electric car models for customers to choose from.

Globally, EV initiatives have generated over RM57.8bil in investments on EV infrastructure, fiscal incentives, research and development since 2008.

Myth 2: With a limited driving range, EVs can’t get me to my destinationFact: It will get you to your destination. The typical EV can travel around 120km to 160km on a single charge. For most motorists, this is more than enough as the average travel is only 65 km a day.

In fact, the top of the line, Tesla Model S has a driving range of over 440km per full charge.

Besides, with the 38 existing charging stations and another 300 expected across the country by 2016 led by GreenTech Malaysia, the fear of not being able to recharge EVs will be a thing of the past.

Myth 3: Charging EVs is cumbersomeFact: Reports note that over 83% of charging actually takes place at home, either overnight or when the EV is not in use – much like your handphone.

All you need to charge most EVs is your power socket.

Utilising the charging dock, which is standard in most EVs, a full charge would take just two to eight hours.  Also, with more shopping centres and offices offering EV charging bays, EV owners can enjoy even more freedom by letting their cars charge up (for free!) while they go about their daily tasks.

Myth 4: EVs are a niche or luxury item not meant for your average motoristFact: Many countries have adopted policies that lower the price of EVs through subsidies, tax and duty exemptions and discounts, as new technology inevitably comes at a marginally higher cost.

Furthermore, advancing technology has seen battery price (the largest contributor to the production cost) fall by an average of 14% per-annum.

As market penetration and production volume increases, overall cost for EVs will also fall.

EVs also offer immense long-term savings for users. GreenTech Malaysia estimates that every time you use an EV you stand to save 69% on fuel cost and 64% on maintenance cost as compared to a conventional car.

 Greentech's fleet of electric vehicles on trial use. They include the Renault Zoe and Twizy, Nissan LEAF and Mitsubishi i-MiEV. The Tesla Model S will soon join the demo line-up.Myth 5: EVs aren’t better for the environmentFact: EVs are actually significantly better for the environment as they typically have zero tailpipe emissions as compared to conventional cars which have 150g CO2/km and above of emissions.

Power plants use fossil fuels more efficiently than an internal combustion engine.

As such, charging EVs using power generated even from a coal/combined cycle power plant would produce less emissions as compared to a conventional car.

EVs can also draw electricity from renewable resources such as solar panels, offering an almost completely carbon free transportation option.

Myth 6: EVs are dangerousFact: To be road–worthy, all EVs have to go through the same assessments that a conventional car would. As such, they come equipped with the standard array of safety features which make them just as safe.

In fact, the Tesla Model S received the highest scores in all categories of the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration tests, making it one of the safest vehicles in the world. Also, EVs do not haul flammable fuel that pose serious fire risks during accidents.

Furthermore, with battery packs located at the bottom of the car, the entire bonnet section acts as an extended crumple zone providing greater protection during head-on collisions.

Myth 7: EVs are slow and boringFact: Far from it, many will attest that EVs actually provide greater driving pleasure than any conventional car.
With no gears or pistons, EVs provide an incomparably smooth ride. Torque is instantaneous and acceleration is effortless.

On average, EVs can drive up to about 140kph going from zero to 100kph in 8 seconds.

Meanwhile, the top of the line Tesla Model S has a top speed of 210kph going from zero to 100kph in under 5 seconds, rivalling the acceleration of the world’s top super cars. -- MOHAMED AZRIN MOHAMED ALI

> Mohamed Azrin Mohamed Ali is the vice-president (green catalyst) of the Malaysian Green Technology Corporation (GreenTech Malaysia). Prior to joining GreenTech Malaysia, he was the head of the Green Technology Department at Tenaga Nasional.


Choices aplenty for dashboard cameras (dashcams)

                KUALA LUMPUR: More Malaysians are installing dashboard cameras (dashcams) in their cars.

The cameras are more accurately described as windscreen cameras as they are mounted on the front windscreens.

Also called car video recorders (CVRs) or driving video recorders (DVRs), these compact devices record video clips which can be used as evidence in the event of road mishaps.

They come in all shapes, sizes and budgets with prices ranging from RM200 for a basic type to over RM1,000 for the high-end units.

Dashcams are increasingly popular as they are affordable, reliable and easy to install.

Also, the proliferation of dashcams in recent years is largely due to the ease of online shopping and competitive prices.

A search on Shopee and Lazada will show up a list varying in price range to fit all budgets.

Reputable brands on sale in Malaysia include Viofo, Thinkware, Aukey, Xiaomi, Transcend, Sony, Blueskysea, Eagle I and Mio.

While many cars are already installed with front cameras either as standard or via aftermarket channel, the trend from 2020 onwards is to have a two-channel camera system in cars for enhanced safety and evidence in case of accidents.

A two-channel camera system adds a rear camera mounted to the rear windscreen that monitors for potential rear-ending or tailgating offences/scams by other motorists and as evidence in insurance claims.

Also available now for those who want better evidence in road mishaps are four-channel dashcam setups, where you also get recording coverage of the sides of the vehicle.

This is particularly useful in vandalism cases, where the sides of the vehicle are targetted by the perpetrators.

 Eagle I dual-camera EG-6019E rear view mirror type dashcam.

Those who want the dashcam to be discreetly positioned can also consider a rear view mirror-type unit such as those from Malaysian brand Eagle I.

These include the Eagle I dual-camera EG-6019E rear view mirror type dashcam which features Super HD 2K resolution for sharp images, wide angle lenses with 6G Glass Advance Filter (for shaper images), up to 32GB Micro SD storage, 600mAh battery, and even Forward Collision Warning (FCW) as well as Lane Departure Warning (LDW) to help lower the chances of accidents.

Eagle I also offers the EG-10 model, which is a dual-camera portable dashcam with built-in LED lights for the rear view camera.

Features include 170- degree wide angle lens 6G Glass Advance Filter (for shaper images), Wide Dynamic Range, a Full HD 1080p front camera and 720p HD rear cameram, up to 32GB Micro SD storage, 400mAh battery.

 Eagle I EG-10 dual-camera portable dashcam.

Meanwhile, Mio recently launched the new MiVue 7 series dashcams which come with a three-year main device warranty, and free installation service.

The new Mio MiVue 792 and MiVue 733 WIFI-embedded GPS dashcams also feature real-time video backup capabilities.

The Wi-Fi enabled devices automatically back up event videos by uploading them to the mobile phone via the MiVue app, allowing users quick and easy access to all videos.

Other highlights of the new Mio dashcams include no interruption of calls (users can still answer calls on their phone while videos are being backed up) and uninterrupted video recording (continues recording while the device connects with a mobile phone via Wi-Fi).

 Garmin Dash Cam 56.

Another option is the Garmin Dash Cam 56 which has an Auto Sync feature that wirelessly connects up to four Garmin dashcams at the front, back and sides of your vehicle to provide virtually complete 360-degree coverage.

This also offers a wide 140-degree field of view that captures crisp 1440p footage and Garmin Clarity HDR that provides increased detail in low-light situations.

Other features include voice control, and driver alerts including forward collision and lane departure warnings.

Also, a Parking mode monitors your car’s surroundings while your car is parked, and the engine is not running.

It automatically begins recording if motion is detected.

The Garmin Dash Cam 56 also has built-in Bluetooth and Wi-Fi to make it easy to wirelessly view, edit and share captured media using the Garmin Drive app.

READ MORE:Dashcam proves its worth in this incident


Range Rover Evoque passes strict emissions test

                WHITLEY: The new Range Rover Evoque has become the first luxury compact SUV to be certified under stringent new NOx emissions targets, Real Driving Emissions stage 2 (RDE2), ahead of the official legislative introduction for new models in January 2020.

All Jaguar and Land Rover models already meet the standards required by the first phase of the Real Driving Emissions (RDE) testing procedure, which came into effect in September 2018.

However, the new Range Rover Evoque in D150 manual Front Wheel Drive (FWD) trim, now complies with the even more rigorous second phase requirements (RDE2).

This states that the vehicle must emit 80mg/km or less of NOx, making the new Evoque the first luxury compact SUV to be certified more than a year ahead of RDE2’s scheduled implementation on all new vehicles by 2020.

Nick Rogers, Executive Director of Product Engineering, Jaguar Land Rover, said: “Meeting the standards for this certification almost two years ahead of schedule is a real achievement and a result of collaboration within our engineering team to develop advanced engine and exhaust technologies.

"The new Range Rover Evoque uses a low-friction engine design which has reduced real-world driving NOx emissions by 90% since 2010, demonstrating vast progress for Jaguar Land Rover. Independent groups, including AIR Index (Allow Independent Road-testing) and ADAC (Allgemeiner Deutscher Automobil-Club), are verifying that our diesels are some of the cleanest available.”

RDE2 compliance is the latest evidence of the continuous work Jaguar Land Rover is doing to optimise the performance, efficiency and emissions of its range of powertrain options. Not only does this extend to petrol and diesel variants, but also the introduction of Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) and MHEV models – proof of Jaguar Land Rover’s commitment to offering an electrified option on all new vehicles from 2020.


Lamborghini Huracan STO: Unstoppable rush

                Lamborghinis counted as one of last week’s highlights in Malaysia.

In the same period that 112 Lambos from across the country set a new record for assembling in Kuala Lumpur, along came the Huracan STO (Super Trofeo Omologata) to stamp its mark at the Sepang race track.

Now the best way to fully appreciate a supercar’s performance is in the controlled environment of a race track — bereft of many of the inherent dangers of public motoring.

As part of the STO’s introduction to Malaysia, Lamborghini Kuala Lumpur held track drives over two days for select customers and the media. The media’s turn came on Day 2.

The STO, by the way, is open for booking now and has a starting price of RM1.48mil (before taxes and options). Prepare to wait 18 months for delivery.

The STO is road legal and track ready. Behind the driver sits the highest performing V10 naturally aspirated engine to date by the Raging Bull.

It’s the result of motorsports know-how drawn from the Huracán Super Trofeo EVO and GT3 EVO racecars.

When told a supercar has oodles of motorsport influence, several things come to mind: heavy use of lightweighting materials; improved aerodynamics; and innovative air ducting to cool engine and carbon ceramic brakes as well as generate great downforce.

Well, the STO has all that and more.

Peak performance

Up close, the STO is a sight for sore eyes, featuring an entirely new exterior design to optimise airflow.

Lamborghini says every line and inch of the STO has been crafted to ensure the best driving performance.

Over 75% of the bodywork is made of carbon fibre. The front bonnet, fenders and the front bumper is a single clamshell called the “cofango” that’s straight out of the racing world. It’s lightweight and a timesaving access feature in motorsports.

New air ducts on the front bonnet increase the airflow through the central radiator to improve engine cooling as well as helping generate downforce. The cofango also incorporates a new front splitter, directing airflow to the newly designed underbody of the car and to the rear diffuser.

The cofango is shaped to push the airflow on top of the front fenders, which incorporate louvres to maximise airflow exiting from the wheelhouse, reducing pressure inside and increasing the front downforce.

A new rear fender derived from the Super Trofeo EVO achieves both reduction of the front area of the car and consequently the drag, while increasing rear downforce, aided by a single slotted wing with double airfoil.

The air scoop on the rear hood and NACA air intakes shunt air into the engine bay.

At a dry weight of 1,339kg, the STO’s weight is reduced by 43kg compared to the already lightweight Huracán Performante, contributed in part by a lighter windscreen and lighter 20-inch magnesium wheels with bespoke Bridgestone Potenza tyres in two versions: one road-focused, the other more track oriented.

The lightweighting concept continues in the cabin with plenty of carbon fibre throughout the cockpit, including sport seats in full carbon fibre; an Alcantara interior with Lamborghini’s Carbonskin; carpets removed and replaced by floor mats in carbon fibre; and the fully carbon fibre lightweight door panels.

It’s the epitome of sporty luxury and you do feel you are getting your money’s worth.

A fully connected telemetry system allows the track driver to monitor and record his performance and to analyse the data via the Lamborghini Unica app.

All these are a reminder of the STO’s racing DNA along with a roll cage, door straps and a fire extinguisher that hopefully will never have to be used.

Yet it’s not bare-bones like a true blue track car. Being a road car as well, the cabin provides some creature comforts like air-conditioning, an infotainment system and optional cruise control.

Bucket seats are snug and supportive, and you are securely pinned into them via a 4-point seatbelt. Getting in is a little easier than getting out especially with helmet on.

Buckle up for joyride

The track sessions involved three STOs at a time with the chief instructor in the lead car. His advice for an enjoyable drive was to always steer smoothly and exit the corners smoothly.

With its 5.2-litre V10 naturally aspirated 640hp powerplant producing 565Nm at 6,500 rpm, the rear-wheel drive STO delivers an impressive acceleration of 0-100 kph in 3.0 seconds, 0-200kph in 9.0 seconds and a top speed of 310kph.

So you really need to know how to choose your cornering lines and how much speed to carry or you would feel the brunt from a mighty dose of oversteer should you miscalculate.

All the cars were set in the Trofeo drive mode, where all systems were optimised for dry asphalt and the fastest lap times on track.

There’s also the default STO mode for road driving and fun on curving roads and Pioggia (Wet) mode, which optimises traction control, torque vectoring, rear-wheel steering and the anti-lock braking on wet asphalt.

Right off the bat, the STO showed how planted and balanced its chassis was. There’s immense grip at both ends as the speed builds up alarmingly fast. And before you know it, you are pushing past 240kph.

This is accompanied by the intense wail of the engine, and the pop and crackles as you paddle-shifted rapidly down the 7-speed dual clutch gearbox to take the next corner.

As a point-and-shoot car, the STO’s steering is highly communicative and you will know precisely where the front tyres are placed as you gun the car for the horizons.

The power delivery is progressive without being overwhelming. This induces confidence putting you in charge of the car instead of the other way around. The ability to stop quickly, courtesy of powerful Brembo CCM-R brakes, reinforces that feeling, braking well consistently lap after lap.

All said and done

It has been less than a day with the STO but it was enough to offer a glimpse of its breathtaking talent as a supercar built both for the track - and the wide open road.


Renault's best-selling Kangoo van has a genius new loading feature

                PARIS: Renault's latest generation of one of Europe's most popular vans is preparing to ditch one of the most traditional - but also annoying - features of cars and vans: the B pillar.

As a result, the Kangoo Rapid is getting an ultrawide loading area, making it much easier to slide in a piece of furniture or another bulky item that needs transporting.

Set to arrive in mid-2021, the high-roof estate designed for trade workers and commercial use is hoping to score points with this smart new door concept.

By getting rid of the B-pillar behind the front door on the passenger side, the engineers have created an opening of almost 1.50 metres in length when the rear sliding door is open. This facilitates much better access to a load area that can hold up to 3.9 cubic metres.

At the same time as this Kangoo Rapid, there's also a family-friendly passenger car variant with five seats and the old-school B-pillar design.

According to Renault, the basic version of the 4.49-metre-long Kangoo is available as a petrol model with a 1.3-litre four-cylinder engine or as a 1.5-litre diesel.

The petrol version is available with 100hp or 130hp, while the diesel comes in three power stages from 75hp to 115hp.

The French manufacturer is also planning an electric version for 2022. With 102hp and a 44kWh battery, it should have a WLTP range of more than 250km.

In addition, the new Citan is being built on the same basis in cooperation with Mercedes. It is due to arrive in the second half of the year.


Autonomous braking really does cut car crashes

                LONDON: If you're in the market for a new car, new research highlights why you should pick one that comes with autonomous emergency braking (AEB).

Thatcham, the UK-based automotive technology and research body has been studying insurance claims to discern if the technology is already making a tangible difference to road safety. It found that third-party injury claims are 45 percent lower on drivers of the latest-generation VW Golf -- which comes with AEB as standad -than on an equivalent vehicles, such as a Ford Fiesta or Audi A3.

"When we saw figures based on an initial small sample, we were surprised, as they exceeded our own performance testing. However the figures held up, even after almost doubling the sample group," said Matthew Avery, Director of Safety at Thatcham Research.

AEB systems are designed to scan the road ahead for signs of a potential collision, and perform an emergency stop if the car is travelling at lower speeds, typically below 50kph or 30kph, depending on the system in question.

"Low-speed bumps and shunts account for three-quarters of all collisions, typically at speeds of under 32kph in city driving scenarios. This is where AEB systems perform best, avoiding crashes of up to 25kph and reducing the severity of those up to 25mph (40kph). This includes collisions at junctions, roundabouts and in stop-start traffic where one car runs into the back of another," said Avery.

Thatcham's UK-only findings come at the same time that Euro NCAP, the European organization tasked with crash-testing new cars, published the results of its first research into autonomous vehicle safety systems. Working in partnership with its Australian counterpart, the ANCAP, the organisations pooled their #34;real-world' data and discovered that there is a 38percent overall reduction in rear-end crashes for vehicles fitted with an autonomous emergency braking system.

Dr Michiel van Ratingen, Secretary General of Euro NCAP, said "These findings strongly support our decision to make AEB technology a key discriminator in the safety rating of new vehicles."

In January, EuroNCAP started incorporating autonomous safety technologies into its crash-testing criteria and a new car is now only capable of achieving a full five-star safety rating if it comes with AEB as standard.

However, according to Thatcham's data, only 10 percent of new cars on sale come with the technology as standard, while 25 percent of new cars come with the technology as a cost option.


McLaren to build 3-seat Hyper-GT

                LONDON: McLaren has confirmed details of a 3-seat sports car which it said would be the most luxurious road-going McLaren to date.

Only 106 units of the so-called "Hyper-GT" will be made and all have been pre-sold. The car will be made by the company's bespoke arm, McLaren Special Operations, and start deliveries in early 2019.

McLaren CEO Mike Flewitt said the car codenamed BP23 (3-seat Bespoke Project 2) would copy the three seat layout with the central driving position made famous by the McLaren F1, and it would be housed in a streamlined, shrink-wrapped carbon fibre body.

"We are calling BP23 a ‘Hyper-GT’ because it’s a car designed for longer journeys, but with the high levels of performance and driver engagement expected of any McLaren."

It would have a hybrid powertrain, making it one of the most powerful McLarens created but the car is expected to also deliver the highest levels of refinement, enabling significant journeys to be undertaken with up to three people aboard.

Production is limited to 106 units, which is the same as the number of F1s produced. Future owners will work alongside MSO to create their own bespoke cars, being able to select colour, trim and other points of personalisation unique to them.

All of the switchgear would be bespoke. Like the F1 and all of McLaren's road and track cars, the car would feature dihedral doors, but for BP23, the doors would be powered for the first time with apertures extending into the roof.

Further details of the car’s specifications would be available nearer the launch date.


Oct 5 - 11: RON97 petrol down 19 sen

                PETALING JAYA: The price of RON97 petrol is down by 19 sen per litre while RON95 and diesel prices remain the same for the following week.

The Finance Ministry said the price of RON97 petrol would be RM2.60 per litre beginning Saturday (Oct 5) until Oct 11, down from RM2.79.

Prices of RON95 and diesel will stay at RM2.08 per litre and RM2.18 per litre respectively.

"Based on the calculation under the Automatic Pricing Mechanism (APM), the retail prices for both RON95 and diesel should be RM2.30 per litre and RM2.34 per litre respectively," it said a statement Friday (Oct 4).

It added that the estimated subsidy to be borne by the government between Oct 5 to Oct 11 would be about RM101.52mil.

The weekly fuel pricing mechanism was reintroduced on Jan 5 under the APM.

Under this system, fuel prices are announced every Friday and remain in force for one week.


Shark Race-R Pro Carbon gets new Moto2 World Champion design

                PARIS: Shark Helmets is celebrating the achievements of its sponsored rider and double Moto2 World Champion, Johann Zarco, with a replica design for its flagship model - the Race-R Pro.

Being made available in the UK from the second quarter, the new helmet design is to honour Zarco becoming the first two-time Moto2 World Champion and also the first French rider ever to take two World Championships.

This year, the Frenchman will embark on his maiden season in the MotoGP premier class while riding for Yamaha Tech 3 team.

The helmet has visible carbon fibre - specifically carbon aramid fibres, to give it an extremely strong outer shell.

It also features a double blade spoiler for high speed aerodynamic stability, optical class-one visor with variable density –  the visor is 2.8mm around the edges and 4.25mm in the centre.

The visor has a patented four anchor-point visor safety lock and is treated with an anti-scratch treatment outside and an anti-fog treatment inside.

It fastens securely using a double D-ring strap and tucks away using a magnet. The helmet features a quick release visor system and the interior is removable and washable.

The Race-R PRO Carbon Zarco replica will be available in sizes XS-XL at £589.99 (RM3,400) and each helmet is individually numbered with sponsor stickers included in the box.

The Race-R PRO is acknowledged as one of the safest helmets on the market with five stars in SHARP testing.


Corolla, Toyota's car for the masses, turns 50 - VIDEOS

                TOKYO: This weekend marks the 50th anniversary of the Toyota Corolla, one of the world's best-selling cars.

Since the first model went on sale in Japan on Nov 5, 1966, some 44.3 million Corollas have been sold globally through the end of September, including the Corolla Fielder station wagon and other variants, the Japanese automaker says.

Here are some milestones along the way and where it stands today.

In the late 1950s, as Japan's economy recovered from World War II, automakers aimed to produce an affordable car for the average family, most of whom didn't have a vehicle.

Toyota Motor Corp first came out with the Publica, which wasn't very well received. In 1966, it introduced the sportier two-door Corolla with a jaw-dropping plan: to build 30,000 of them a month at a time when Toyota's total monthly production was 50,000 vehicles.

The car sold well as Japanese consumers aspired to get the "3 C's" – colour TVs, cars and coolers (air conditioners). Three years after the launch, the Corolla became the country's top-selling car and helped usher in an age of motorisation in Japan.

The man in charge of developing the original Corolla, Tatsuo Hasegawa, had designed aircraft during the war, and incorporated some aircraft aerodynamics into the new car.

His concept for the Corolla was "80-plus-points" - in short, a car with a more-than-passing grade on several counts that gave customers the feel of a better-than-average product.

For the first-generation Corolla, the going-the-extra-mile "add-on" was its sportiness, despite being a family car. Hasegawa gave the car a 4-speed manual transmission operated by a gearshift on the floor, instead of the more typical 3-speed, column shifter at the time.

 Second-generation Corolla.

The Corolla also had a 1,100cc engine, a bit larger than that of its rival, the Nissan Sunny.

Toyota has stuck to its tradition of introducing new technologies to the masses with each remodelling of the Corolla. Now in its 11th generation in Japan, the car is made in 13 countries around the world and sold in more than 150 countries.

After 33 straight years as Japan's top-selling model, the Corolla lost the crown in Japan to rival Honda Motor's Fit/Jazz hatchback in 2002.

It is now also outsold by the Toyota Aqua and Prius hybrid-only models as domestic customers opt for more fuel-efficient cars.

The outlook at home is bleak, with the overall car market due to shrink further along with the population. Domestic sales of the Corolla are now about a quarter of their peak of around 400,000 in 1973. But the Corolla is still a cash cow in the United States, where it is the No.2 best-selling passenger car model so far this year, behind only the Toyota Camry.


Grab faces off against Tesla taxis in Indonesia’s cab war

Purnomo has already added about two dozen EVs to Blue Bird’s almost 30,000-strong fleet of cabs. — All image source from Instagram.com/nonipurnomo
JAKARTA: In 2015, the shares of Indonesia’s largest cab company were soaring, while its revenue reached a record high. Then came Uber, followed by Grab and Gojek, Southeast Asia’s answer to the revolutionary ride-hailing app.

Competition from the technology titans wiped out US$1.7 billion, or almost 80%, of PT Blue Bird’s market value from a peak. Revenue plunged 23% in three years and the latest quarterly earnings fell to a record low. But rather than give up, the 54-year-old cab operator is now seeking to turn the tide. Leading the effort is Noni Purnomo, who succeeded her father in May as president.

Four months into her new job at the Jakarta-based company, Purnomo is banking on technology to transform the flagging business her late grandmother started in 1965. Her plans include focusing on electric vehicles made by Tesla Inc. and BYD Co. to cut fleet ownership costs and improve efficiency using data.

"We decided to take a huge leap,” Purnomo, 47, said at her office here last week. "With this leap, we hope we can address our shortcomings” and catch up with rivals.

 A Model S taxi from Bluebird.

While sustainability is her immediate priority, Purnomo’s goal eventually is to beat the ride-hailing giants that have upended what was once an industry renowned for its steady revenue and dominated by small owners and families like Purnomo’s. She’s up against Singapore-based Grab, the regional giant that bought Uber Technologies Inc.’s Southeast Asian operations last year.

Purnomo’s toughest challenge yet may be convincing investors that her company is here to stay and thrive. Blue Bird’s shares traded at 2,580 rupiah here on Monday. They reached an all-time high of 12,500 rupiah in January 2015, months after Blue Bird raised a modest US$200 million from an initial public offering.

Purnomo has already added about two dozen EVs to Blue Bird’s almost 30,000-strong fleet of cabs that operate in the cities of Java, Sumatra, Bali, Lombok and Batam. Eventually, the plan is to have 2,000 of the zero-emission taxis from Tesla and Chinese maker BYD, she said.

EVs may give her company an edge as initial data have shown encouraging signs, she said. The vehicles cost 40% less to operate than fossil fuel-powered cars, and generate 30% more revenue, according to her.

Besides, her rivals can’t replicate this model easily, Purnomo said. Their asset-light model would require drivers to bear the financing costs of an expensive EV, a risky proposition for most individuals, she said. A representative for Grab didn’t respond to request for comments.

"We have a different business model and the company can take the risk instead of the individual,” she said.

Charging stations

The lack of charging infrastructure in the Southeast Asian country could pose a hurdle. Right now, Blue Bird has facilities at its main office in Jakarta, while there’s one available at the city’s airport. President Joko Widodo‘s government is trying to ramp up charging stations in malls and other public places to help boost sales of EVs.

Blue Bird will also invest in the Internet of things — an emerging technology that links machines and gadgets and likely to get a boost with the roll out of 5G wireless networks. IoT will help Blue Bird collect data and improve operational efficiency and help implement dynamic pricing, a variable fare model popular with the likes of Uber, Lyft Inc. and Grab.

Purnomo said the company now has the technical capability to fight back and the financial resources to challenge them, without elaborating on how she plans to raise capital. On the other hand, Grab has money to burn. Valued at US$14 billion, it is planning to raise more than US$4.5 billion in its latest funding round.

"Gojek and Grab’s low fares have caused a major churn for these taxi companies,” said Kenny Liew, an analyst at Fitch Solutions. "The taxi companies need to look at new business models, even partnerships with ride-hailing players, to stay relevant.”

 Purnomo started working at Blue Bird in the mid-1990s, groomed by her father for the family business.Rival ties

Blue Bird already has an alliance with Gojek, operated by PT Aplikasi Karya Anak Bangsa, that allows its fleet to be available on the Gojek app. While it opens up the customer base, it also has the disadvantage of lower margins, Liew said. Gojek offers both motorcycle and cab rides.

A representative for Gojek said the company has also started a pilot project for electric motorcycles and cars in indonesia. If the vehicles can save costs, that will help drivers, she said in an email.

Purnomo started working at Blue Bird in the mid-1990s. Groomed by her father for a key role in the family business, the engineering graduate held positions in maintenance, customer service and sales before taking a break to finish her master’s in business administration at the University of San Francisco.

Competition brought about by ride-hailing companies in the traditional taxi business is "nearing equilibrium,” Purnomo said, adding some customers and even drivers who previously left Blue Bird to try rivals have returned.

While investors have pummeled Blue Bird’s shares, analysts have been more optimistic. All six tracked by Bloomberg recommend buying it.

"The worst appears to be behind them,” said Richard Suherman, an analyst at PT Sinarmas Sekuritas.

"Their transformation, including their plan to build up a better technology platform and dynamic pricing, should help their competitiveness and profitability.”


China may issue new policies to stimulate auto demand, says official

Vehicles zooming past a traffic policeman on the Second Ring Road in Beijing in this 2014 file pic. — Reuters
BEIJING: China may issue new policies to stimulate demand for automobiles, with the country’s auto industry still facing difficulties, Xin Guobin, vice minister of industry and information technology, said on Monday.

There is still not enough demand for autos, Xin told reporters, as the outbreak of the coronavirus has dramatically cut private consumption.

Autos account for a big portion of China’s overall industrial production, and are the main driver of the country’s retail sales.

China is also working to help its auto spare parts manufacturers resolve cash flow problems, Xin said.


Lucky winner gets up-close with Asian Le Mans Series

                KUALA LUMPUR: Michelin Malaysia picked a lucky winner from its Asian Le Mans Series Facebook (2014) contest to receive VIP tickets to the race at the Sepang International Circuit (SIC) and a meet-and-greet session with the teams.

The winner was 48-year old motorsports enthusiast John Chu, who was required to snap a picture of Michelin tyres and post it, along with a line about why they want to win the tickets to the race, on the company’s official Facebook page.

The contest offered its winners (and one partner) a VIP experience in an air-conditioned hospitality suite, a meet and greet with the racing teams as well as a behind-the-scenes tour during the season finale of the Asian Series 2014.

 Chu and brother (in white with black stripes) next to the Asian Le Mans series racecar

Chu, who has always wanted to get into a racecar and even had dreams of being a racecar driver took a picture of his newly installed Michelin Pilot Super Sport tyres.

“I have always wanted to go to the paddock and see the action up close. I wish to thank Michelin Malaysia for this once-in-a-lifetime privilege that I will never forget,” said Chu excitedly.

“Customer satisfaction is the top priority at Michelin. Bringing this VIP experience is exciting and enriching for our customers who are the foundation of everything we do,” said Michelin Malaysia managing director Beltran Yturriaga.

Michelin Malaysia is the commercial partner and the official tyre supplier of the 2014 Asian Le Mans Series.


Trust the nozzle: How to tell if the fuel tank is really full

                BERLIN: The nozzle makes a click, and the tank is full. It's a sound that all drivers have waited for at some time or another at a petrol station. But, especially when petrol's cheaper than usual, what's stopping you from topping it off a little more?

The experts' advice: Just don't, OK?

While it won't damage the vehicle per se, manually overfilling the tank usually isn't very useful, explains Torsten Hesse from Tuv, a leading technical inspection association in Germany.

"Depending on the type of vehicle, only a small amount of additional fuel will fit in the tank. The danger of fuel spilling over, however, is not to be underestimated," he says.

Play it safe and trust the nozzle to automatically shut off.

In case this advice isn't enough, here's another practical tip: Always approach the pump from the side where the tank flap is located. Otherwise, the fuel hose might be too long or too short. Since neither the nozzle nor the vehicle are ever completely clean, this can easily mean damage to paintwork.

In addition, the nozzle's automatic locking system doesn't function correctly because the hose has been twisted too far.


Volkswagen Autofiesta this weekend promises great deals

                KUALA LUMPUR: The "Volkswagen Autofiesta" on 7th and 8th October at all authorised dealers nationwide, offers low interest rates deals on the Vento, Jetta and Passat.

Promotions are low interest rates from 0.28 per cent on the Vento 1.6L, and rates starting from 0.88 per cent on the Jetta Comfortline and the complete Passat range.

The models mentioned will also come with a 5-year free maintenance package.

Activities will also include a spread of food and desserts, kids' activities, and lucky draws to win attractive prizes.

Those who test drive and book a Volkswagen during this weekend will also receive an exclusive gift.


McLaren Elva: A US$1.7mil roadster with extreme power

                LONDON: In case the Senna wasn't powerful enough for you, McLaren announced on Wednesday the Elva, a new high-performance roofless roadster that is joining the brand's Ultimate Series line - a collection of the company's most powerful cars to date.

The model pays homage to the McLaren Elvas of the 1960s which were designed by Bruce McLaren, the racecar driver and designer from New Zealand who the brand was named after, as "'customer' versions" of his racecars.

Without a roof, windscreen, or side windows, the model gives the driver and passenger an "immersive and enthralling experience."

No obstructions get between the driver and the sound of the Elva's titanium quad-exit exhaust. Despite this, the aerodynamic design of the vehicle directs the airflow above the cockpit to produce "a relative ‘bubble' of calm."

Major components like the chassis and body have been made from carbon fibre, a material whose frequent use in this model makes the Elva the lightest road car ever made by McLaren.

As a result, the twin-turbocharged V8 - which puts out 804hp - can accelerate the vehicle from 0mph to 100kph in under three seconds; compared to the Senna, the Elva can reach 200kph two seconds faster at 6.7 seconds.

Driving dynamics has been optimised with active aerodynamics, a linked-hydraulic active suspension, and electro-hydraulic steering. All three elements work together to give drivers the "purest feedback."

The natural response of the vehicle to commands allows for the driver to "feel one with the car" and experience the natural elements in full.

Only 388 units of the McLaren Elva will be available to order, each of which start at US$1,690,000 (RM7mil). The price will change based on customer customisation.


Three-wheel racer: Man to attempt world speed record in ... a tuk tuk?

                LONDON: A speed of 110kph might not seem like much to break, but it is when you're in a 50-year-old motorised rickshaw from Thailand.

On May 13, Matt Everard will attempt to break the world speed record for a person driving a tuk tuk, a three wheel rickshaw predominantly used in Asian cities to shuttle people around - and not something known for its high speeds

Using a three-wheel Bangkok tuk tuk he once bought late at night on Ebay, Everard will attempt to break the current record of 110kph.

To do this, he'll barrel down the longest runway in Britain at Elvington Airfield in Northern Yorkshire, England while Guinness World Records officials watch to confirm the record.

 Everard with his modified tuk-tuk.

The collector pimped out the 1971 original's two-stroke 350cc engine with a modern 1300 cc fuel-injected Daihatsu motor capable of 144kph, a five-month project he says cost him £20,000 (RM109,000).

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

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

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


Proton lowers service costs with exclusive Petronas lubricants

                SUBANG JAYA: Proton collaborates with Petronas to help reduce ownership costs with an exclusive range of Syntium SE (Service at Edar) lubricants.

The lubricants, consisting of mineral-based Syntium 500 SE (15W-40), semi-synthetic Syntium 800 SE (10W-30) and fully-synthetic Syntium 3000 SE (5W-30), can only be used - and are only made available at all Proton authorised service centres.

 From left: Mineral-based Syntium 500 SE (15W-40) , fully-synthetic Syntium 3000 SE (5W-30) and Semi-synthetic Syntium 800 SE (10W-30).

The aim of the tie-up is to help Proton owners realise a lower cost of ownership, since all Proton vehicles now have a service interval of 10,000km.

"The exclusive range of engine oils for Proton cars is specially formulated with CoolTech technology that helps defend against excessive heat, keeping engines performing optimally," said Petronas Lubricants Marketing CEO Zubair Abdul Razak.

 From left: Datuk Fuaad and Zubair each pouring a bottle of fully-synthetic Petronas Syntium 3000 SE into a Proton engine block as a symbol of both company's collaboration.

In addition, Proton CEO Datuk Ahmad Fuaad Kenali said that the local car maker will be increasing the number of seven-days a week service centres from 23 to 27 outlets by year-end to cater to the growing demand for their vehicles.

Meanwhile, customers are able to book a service slot via the company's MyProton mobile application - available on iOS and Android platforms.

Furthermore, the company has managed to streamline its parts prices for over 600 items in its recent price-review exercise to help make them more competitive and provide better value.

"With the introduction of the Petronas Syntium SE exclusive range of engine oils, Proton customers are able to enjoy better value whenever they service their cars at any Proton authorised service centres. In addition, they will have better experience in terms of car performance at improved maintenance costs," said Fuaad.


Aston Martin makes special Vantage trio honouring 100-year-old A3

                LONDON: Aston Martin Lagonda Global Holdings Plc has struggled in recent years to gain its footing during the auto industry’s most dynamic era in more than a century.

It saw significant losses after going public in 2018, and in 2020—when Canadian billionaire Lawrence Stroll became chairman—a year of restructuring that included cash injections and ties forged to Daimler AG.

Most recently, the automaker is suing a company affiliated with one of its dealers in Switzerland, alleging that it withheld deposits collected for the US$3.5 million Valkyrie supercar.

But it would be foolish to count out the 108-year-old brand just yet. Legends don’t die that easily—and Aston Martin is still making beautiful cars.

On June 23, the brand announced it would build three modern-day tributes to celebrate 100 years of its oldest surviving car, the A3.

The tributes are specialised versions of the 2021 Aston Martin Vantage Roadster, which has a 503-horsepower V8 engine and costs US$147,000 (RM611,000).

A 11-horsepower roadster with a 1.5-litre, four-cylinder engine, the original A3 rolled out of Aston Martin’s then-production facility at Abingdon Road in London in 1921. Just one was made, the third of five single prototypes the company constructed before official series production began.

The lightweight racer made its name after setting speed records in such places as the Essex Motor Club Kop Hill Climb (1922) and the Brooklands racing circuit (1923), where it hit 135kph.

It was used extensively and, by all accounts, rather casually by Aston Martin co-founder Lionel Martin until it disappeared for years under private owners unaware of its history. Sharp-eyed buyers who knew its significance noticed it at an auction in Newport Pagnell, England, in 2002.

Each of the new Vantage Roadsters will include nods to the racing heritage and design of the A3.

Along with traditional elegance and a sporty stance, they will have a unique grille with bright aluminum trim and black square mesh in the middle, which is similar to the retro finished look of the A3. Aston Martin’s heritage badge used at the time the A3 launched is positioned on the mesh.

The Vantage Roadsters will also have side fender panels with a saddle-leather strap inspired by the exposed hood strap on the 1921 car, which secures the hood in place.

They come with a set of bronze brake calipers, (representing the bronze detailing on A3) on bespoke 20-inch lightweight, forged, gloss-black wheels.

Inside, the seats come with embroidery similar to that of the historic car, “Chestnut Tan” leather accents, and contrast stitching. Each comes with right-hand-drive, although a left-hand drive might be available, pending approval, said Henry Cozon, the head of Aston Martin’s bespoke division sales, in an email.

The first of the centenary commissions will be unveiled in real life on June 26 at an A3 celebration at the Dallas Burston Polo Club in Warwickshire, England.

Orders will be taken on-site, with first deliveries scheduled for the fall of 2021 and any others 16 weeks after the order is placed. An Aston Martin spokesperson was unable to confirm pricing at the time of this story’s publication.


Caterham Cars launches retro-inspired Super Seven 1600

                LONDON: Caterham Cars has launched its latest retro-inspired model – the Super Seven 1600 – after the enormous success of previous heritage cars.

The 135bhp, five-speed Super Seven 1600 fits perfectly into Caterham’s existing heritage line of products as a permanent addition, alongside the wildly popular limited-edition Sprint and Super Sprint models launched in 2016 and 2017 respectively.

Inspired by the craftsmanship of the original Super Seven and the early cars created under the historic Caterham badge, the new Super Seven features a raft of retro details and styling cues.

These include the classic flared front wings, retro-inspired 14-inch alloy wheels, a spare wheel and carrier harking back to the touring Sevens of old, and a choice of Seven heritage paint finishes.

In the interior, the retro experience continues, with a timelessly elegant wooden-rimmed steering wheel and classically tailored leather upholstery.

Designed to evoke the glamour, colour and joy of motoring in the 1970s, with none of the drawbacks of ‘70s technology, the new-for-2020 car is the first Super Seven to be offered in the wider, more comfortable large chassis (SV), as well as the standard version (S3).

And it’s not just the car’s looks that hark back to the ‘70s – the Super Seven 1600 includes DCOE throttle body injection, found on any self-respecting rally car of the era and producing a distinctive growl, reminiscent of the twin ‘40s of the period.

Caterham CEO, Graham Macdonald, said: “Caterham has always been about individuality and the quality engineering that makes the Seven peerless when it comes to the driving experience.

“Ownership of any specification of Caterham Seven is a mark of distinction and a ticket to driving adventure, but our heritage line of models holds a special place in the hearts of the true brand enthusiasts. Both of our most recent retro-inspired Sevens – the Sprint and Super Sprint – sold out in record time so we know the appeal for these cars is strong.

“We’re excited to introduce the most powerful Super Seven ever built, a reimagining of a true modern icon, delivering exactly what the original was designed to offer – a focus on driving feel and race-inspired upgrades but with some touches of luxury to the finishes.”


BMW M4 GT4  offered up in four exclusive designs

                MUNICH: BMW's performance arm - M, is sending its M4 GT4 motorsport model into its fourth racing season with four exclusive new designs.

BMW M is also offering the four spectacular winning designs from an internal design competition in a limited edition to interested customer teams, fans and enthusiasts.

The M4 GT4 can be used in sprint formats as well as with an endurance package in long-distance races.

"Powersticks" make it easy to adjust the power levels to those that are relevant in terms of Balance of Performance.

The price of the BMW M4 GT4 with one of the four exclusive designs is 174,000 Euros (RM845,000) in Germany.

The limited-edition will be distributed by BMW M Motorsport dealers and the BMW M GmbH customer sports sales department.

The four designs applied to the M4 GT4 used high-quality foil and are named Fractal Duality, Vivid Momentum, The Power of Four and Fluid Power.


DRB-Hicom offers RM52mil in scholarship to automotive students

                KUALA LUMPUR: DRB-Hicom Bhd has allocated RM52 million in scholarship for 3,000 students of DRB-Hicom University of Automotive Malaysia (DHU) for the next three years, said the university's Vice-Chancellor Prof Datuk Seri Dr Omar Osman.

DRB-Hicom is offering 100 scholarships annually. Each scholarship covers full tuition fees and an allowance for successful recipients from the B40 group.

The company is also offering RM10,000 aid to diploma students while foundation students would study "almost tuition-free" in a one-year programme.

“The scholarships would spur greater interest among youths to be involved in the automotive sector," Dr Omar said in a statement.

"The DRB-Hicom group has already allowed us to give away partial scholarships for each degree student amounting to RM15,000."

Located in DRB-Hicom's Automotive Complex in Pekan, DRB-Hicom University is the only university in the country that focused on catering to the automotive industry. It started out as the International College of Automotive Malaysia in 2010 and earned its university status on October 2015. It offers programmes from the foundation level to doctorate.


Ducati dressed its Streetfighter V4 S in Dark Stealth

                BOLOGNA (Italy): Ducati has introduced a new colour scheme for its Streetfighter V4 S - Dark Stealth.

The new matte black colour joins the usual Ducati Red in the colour options as its Streetfighter V4 range become compliant with the European Union's Euro 5 anti-pollution legislation.

The Streetfighter V4 S is essentially the Italian bike builder's Panigale V4 that's been stripped of its fairings and has been fitted with a high and wide handlebar.

Only the biplane wings and the electronic package help to keep this high-powered naked bike planted to the road's surface.

Weighing just 178kg, the Strettyfighter V4 S is powered by 1,100cc Desmosedici Stradale motor.

This means 208hp at 13,000rpm (250 rpm higher than the EURO 4 version) and 123Nm of torque at 9,500rpm (2,000 rpm lower than the EURO 4 version) are readily on tap thanks to a newly calibrated engine and exhaust system.

The exhaust's silencer now uses longer catalysts (+10mm) that have been impregnated with noble metals to help properly burn off polluting hydrocarbons.

The lengths and dimensions of the exhaust primaries of the rear bank have been optimized to minimize the ignition time of the catalytic converter while maintaining engine performance.

Compared to the Euro 4 models, the manifolds of the rear bank have been shortened by 100mm and reduced in diameter, going from 42mm to 38mm.

The new component allowed the introduction of a more compact rear heat shield integrated into the body of the bike. Always with the aim of limiting emissions is the introduction of four lambda probes (one for each cylinder) to help provide a more refined control of fuel injected.

All Streetfighter V4 models in the 2021 range are fitted with new front brake and clutch pumps, both self-bleeding and derived from those used for the first time on the Superleggera V4.

The body of the new pumps has been designed with a configuration that allows for ‘natural’ bleeding, thus eliminating the need to intervene on the system in the event of air present in the circuit.

The Streetfight V4 S is currently priced at £20,295 (RM110,000) in the UK.


A spot of tennis and the Jaguar XF Sportbrake

                WIMBLEDON: The world number one, Andy Murray, took time out of his preparations to help launch the Jaguar XF Sportbrake on a perfect replica of the All-England Tennis Club's center court.

Still, it wouldn't be a Jaguar car launch if it didn't overtly court publicity and in the case of this latest model, the company wants as many people as possible to know that this car, like Murray, can go toe-to-toe with the best that the automotive world can offer.

Taking the BMW 5 Series Touring and Mercedes E-Class Wagon as its benchmarks, the Sportbrake is aiming to serve up a driving experience that aces the former with levels of comfort and practicality that match the latter.

So, in terms of performance, even with the 3-liter V6 diesel engine under the hood, it can hit 100kph in 6.6 seconds and, thanks to intelligent all-wheel drive and an almost perfect 50-50 weight distribution, will be just as potent in the bends or over uneven surfaces.

What's more, the addition of rear air suspension means that it can carry heavy loads but without impacting on poise or back seat comfort.

The trunk offers 565-liters of space and, with the rear seats down it jumps to 1700 liters. What's more the tailgate can be remotely operated making loading and unloading simple even with your hands full, as long as you're wearing the "activity key' wristband.

The idea of this little wearable is that you can strap it on and forget about things like car keys. It's waterproof and so you can head off on an adventure and know you can still get back in the car when the fun's over.

That's also why the car's called a Sportbrake rather than a wagon - to emphasize its perfect fit for those with an active lifestyle. So, 3-liter gasoline and diesel versions can tow 2,000kg - more than enough for a horse box, boat or caravan.

"With the addition of the Sportbrake, we're adding space and usability to the existing fun-to-drive package," said Nick Collins, Vehicle Line Director, Jaguar XF. "We have developed a car to appeal to customers who want an efficient premium estate with low ownership costs."


Inferno Exotic Car to roll off production line in 2017?

                ROME: Mexican hypercar builder Inferno - the third edition to South America's "booming" sports car manufacturer, is gunning for the Bugatti Chiron, with word that its 'Exotic Car' might just be rolling off the assembly line next year.

It seems the company is all set to begin building its US$2.1mil (RM8.5mil) "loco" hypercar in Italy with 1,400hp / 1,525Nm, enabling it to sprint from 0-100kph in 2.7 seconds and onwards to a top speed of 394kph.

Although there's no word of an engine provider as yet, there's still rumours of a twin-turbo V8 looking to take up residence at the rear of this sub-1,200kg beast that's been compared to a level-4 armoured vehicle that uses an exclusive zinc-aluminium-silver alloy for its body.

Thanks to the concoction of metals, the car will be able to “absorb impacts by stretching (the metal) up to 100 times its original size without losing its properties," said CEO Alvaro Gutierrez Ochoa - making it one of the safest hypercars available.

The company has planned to build 11 first edition models and it seems eight of the Exotic Car have already been bought.


China may roll back electric car quotas as industry pushes back

Cars are displayed at an electric vehicle dealership in Shanghai - Reuters
BEIJING: China is considering easing proposed quotas aimed at producing more electric vehicles, as Beijing gets pushback from the automotive industry over the scale and pace of the plans.

If adopted, proposed changes under discussion could see a target of new energy vehicles (NEV) making up 8 percent of sales next year pushed to 2019, two auto executives said.

The changes would lower targets from a draft policy released in September requiring 8 percent of automakers' sales to be battery electric or plug-in hybrid vehicles by 2018, rising to 10 percent in 2019 and 12 percent in 2020.

Any loosening of NEV targets would mark a pull back by Beijing, which has faced opposition to the planned targets as it looks to drive its domestic carmakers to overtake global rivals in the “green” vehicle sector.

Automakers and industry bodies have said the targets are too tough and could hurt manufacturers' interests. New energy vehicles last year accounted for just 1.8 percent of sales in the world's biggest autos market, according to Reuters calculations based on official data.

"It's normal to make revisions as it's a draft plan," An Jin, chairman of Anhui Jianghuai Automobile Group (JAC Motor), said on the sidelines of the National People's Congress in Beijing.

He said he was aware of talks to revise the quota targets, but said nothing was set in stone. "JAC hasn't been told what revisions might be made to the draft, but I think it is possible the draft will be changed after the discussions," he said.

"Whether the whole market can hit this quota by 2018 depends a lot on the strength of government policy. If it's strong then we should be able to surpass the targets," An said, "(But) if you consider China's infrastructure and the transformation of China's auto sector, then perhaps the pace will have to slow."
Two executives familiar with the plans said the government was considering options for lowering the requirements.

One idea was to reduce the quota requirement by 2 percent each year, cutting the 2018 requirement to 6 percent, said a China-based government relations official at a major global automaker. It would then be 8 percent in 2019 and 10 percent in 2020.

Another option would be to push back each target by a year, with the 8 percent quota starting from 2019, an executive at a Japanese car maker said.

Both asked not to be named due to the sensitivity of the matter and because the draft was still under consideration.

The overall policy includes quotas for plug-in cars, targets for average fuel economy requirements, and a credit trading system to promote green energy cars while penalising petrol cars.

The two people said the quota stand-off was tied to a disagreement between the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) and China's top state planner, the National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC).

MIIT, which regulates manufacturers, supports a more flexible credit trading system favored by automakers. The NDRC is more aggressive in promoting a transition to electric vehicles, pushing the introduction of the stricter quotas.

An NDRC spokesman said the body played a "small role" when the draft was open to public for discussion. MIIT did not immediately respond to Reuters' requests for comment.

China has strongly supported and subsidised electric vehicles, but is gradually swapping out incentives for hard targets automakers must meet. The central government cut subsidies 20 percent this year, a first reduction towards eliminating them by 2020.


Evoque Convertible set for November debut after final sign-off

                LONDON: The all-new Range Rover Evoque Convertible is set to debut in November after completing Land Rover's punishing development and testing program with flying colours.

Hot on the heels of the recent London takeover, where six full-scale wireframe sculptures showcased Evoque Convertible's elegant design at a series of iconic locations, Land Rover has released a film showcasing its all-terrain credentials.

The footage, released on Sunday, shows the world's first luxury compact SUV convertible completing the final phase of testing at Land Rover's legendary Eastnor Castle estate, in Herefordshire, UK.

Land Rover confirmed plans to launch the convertible derivative of its Evoque at the Geneva Motor Show in March 2015. The addition to the range has just completed its extensive development program and continues Land Rover's tradition for creating and leading new market segments.

Travelling the globe, the convertible has passed a series of tests before undergoing final sign-off at the Eastnor Castle Estate, where all Range Rovers have been put through their paces for the last 45 years.

Launching in November and making its public debut at the Los Angeles International Auto Show, the Evoque Convertible will be on sale in key markets by the first half of 2016.


SPM student among suspects nabbed over fake driving licences

                KUALA LUMPUR: A student due to take his SPM this year is among two suspects arrested for allegedly selling fake driving licences online.

City Commercial Crime Investigation Department (CCID) chief Asst Comm Mahidisham Ishak said in a statement today the arrests resulted from a complaint by a 40-year-old victim who claimed to have been scammed through an online advertisement.

"On March 29, the victim clicked on a Facebook ad that offered driving licences without the need for going through the Road Transport Department.

"After contacting the seller via Whatsapp, the victim was promised that a license could be purchased for RM490.

"However, despite paying, additional payments were requested for various reasons. A police report was made after the victim became suspicious," he said.

Following the report, a raid was conducted on Saturday at a house in Durian Tunggal, Melaka.

"Two arrests were made, with the suspects aged 17 and 22. Equipment believed to have been used to make fake licences was also seized," he added.

Investigations showed that the suspects were members of a group that had been active since 2016.

Both suspects have been remanded until April 5, and the case is being investigated under Section 420 of the Penal Code for cheating.


2018 LA Auto Show: Kia teases 2020 Soul with vibrantly coloured pix

                LOS ANGELES: Following last week's announcement teasing the rear of a forest green 2020 Soul, Kia just revealed nearly the entire exterior a week before its official LA Auto Show debut.

Last Wednesday, all we had was a picture of the 2020 Soul tail lights; now, we have five more vibrant teaser images of the car that expose nearly the entire boldly green exterior, as well as bits and pieces of the steering wheel, infotainment center, side door, and back-end of a red and white model.

As if it were possible, this Soul model looks even more boxy than previous generations - it's certainly going to be more colourful by the looks of it. Kia describes this aesthetic as "bold" and "immediately recognisable" with a "fun-to-drive personality."

If compared with the 2019 model, the headlights are thinner, the infotainment set-up - or rather the dash surrounding the system - has received a modern facelift, and the interior design got some splashes of colour - and that's only from what we can tell given the six teaser images.

The model will come with a variety of powertrains including turbocharged and electric options. After its LA Auto Show debut next week, it will go on sale in Europe in 2019.


Software behind self-driving Uber crash didn't recognise jaywalkers

An Uber pick-up location is pictured in San Diego. — Reuters

SAN FRANCISCO: An Uber self-driving car that struck and killed a woman last year in Arizona failed to recognise her as a pedestrian because she was jaywalking, US transport regulators said Tuesday.

The woman had been crossing the street "at a location without a crosswalk; the system design did not include a consideration for jaywalking pedestrians," the US National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) said in a statement.

In a preliminary report, the NTSB had already determined that the car's software spotted the 49-year-old woman nearly six seconds before the vehicle hit her, as she walked across the street at night with her bicycle in Tempe, a suburb of Phoenix.

 This file of a video grab made from dashcam footage released by the Tempe Police Department on March 21, 2018 shows the moment before the collision of ride-sharing Uber's self-driving vehicle and a pedestrian in the city of Tempe, Arizona on March 18, 2018. - AFP

According to the latest report, which was issued ahead of a Nov 19 hearing to officially determine the accident's cause, the system at no time "classified her as a pedestrian" but rather, considered her an object.

When the software determined that a collision was imminent about 1.2 seconds before impact, it suppressed any "extreme braking or steering actions" to reduce the potential for erratic vehicle behaviour.

It did, however, produce "an auditory alert to the vehicle operator as it initiated a plan for the vehicle slowdown."

Following the March 2018 accident, Uber suspended its autonomous driving testing in all locations in the United States but resumed the programme several months later.

The company has assured the NTSB that new technology in the cars will correctly recognise pedestrians in similar situations and trigger braking more than four seconds before impact.

According to the report, 37 crashes involving Uber automatic test vehicles operating in autonomous mode occurred between September 2016 and March 2018, excluding the Arizona crash.


Carsome and Petaling Jaya police collaborate to reduce car theft

                KUALA LUMPUR: Southeast Asia’s largest integrated car e-commerce platform, Carsome is working with the Petaling Jaya District Police to broaden public awareness on the rising cases of car theft.

According to a report by the Vehicle Theft Reduction Council of Malaysia Bhd (VTREC) in 2020, a vehicle is stolen every 75 minutes in Malaysia, amounting to an average of 20 cars stolen each day.

Vehicle theft risk in Malaysia is one of the highest in the world and it is one of the few countries that has shown a steady rise in vehicle theft since 2001.

The collaboration between Carsome and the Petaling Jaya District Police involves the identification of vehicle theft hotspots.

Carsome will install public service announcement signboards at these hotspots to serve as a reminder to residents and passers-by to be more cautious about their cars and surroundings.

Carsome will support the police with the amplification of crime awareness and prevention messages through its online channels, such as its website.

Carsome co-founder and Carsome Academy CEO Jiun Ee Teoh said crime prevention and awareness are a shared community responsibility.

“The installation of signboards around Petaling Jaya is part of Carsome’s support for the Petaling Jaya District Police vehicle theft prevention efforts.

 Teoh (fifth from left) and ACP Mohamad Fakhruddin (fifth from right) at the unveiling of the signboard.

“Our motivation is to support the police in creating a safe environment in Malaysia for all car owners, starting with Petaling Jaya where Carsome was founded.

We recognise that crime prevention and awareness is a shared community responsibility and it is our hope that these safety sign boards serve as a useful reminder in creating a better environment and more peace of mind for residents living in these hot spots,” he added.

At the launch event, Petaling Jaya District Police Chief, ACP Mohamad Fakhruddin Abdul Hamid and Teoh unveiled the first signboard at PPR Lembah Subang.

ACP Mohamad Fakhruddin said the police were grateful for the support from the private sector, such as Carsome, who have been supportive in amplifying efforts to reduce cases of car theft.

He encouraged residents any abnormal behaviours immediately and added that PPR Lembah Subang is one of the hotspots for vehicle theft and a good starting ground for the first signboard.


Now you can cycle sitting comfortably in Podbike

                OSLO: The Norwegian startup Podbike is launching its first hybrid vehicle - half bike, half car.

Classed as an electric bike, it lets riders enjoy the benefits of cycling with a new level of comfort. Production is expected to start in spring 2022.

After lengthy development work, Podbike is finally releasing its first electric bicycle with a closed cabin.

Halfway between a bicycle and a car, this new mode of transport allows the rider to pedal in a comfortable seated position, while benefiting from electric assistance.

Named Frikar, this strange four-wheeled contraption is classed as an electric bicycle, and can therefore be used on cycle paths.

Its design has been developed to ensure even less air resistance than a conventional bike, but with more comfort, of course, since the rider is seated and protected from the elements.

Heating is even available as an option. According to Podbike, anyone between 1.50 and 2 metres tall can hop in and ride this ebike. There is even space to add a child seat, again as an optional extra.

Its motor promises a speed of 25kph, reaching up to 60kph downhill. As for range, this varies from 50km to 80km, depending on the type of roads taken and the average speed.

Through this new vehicle, Podbike's objective is to help people transition to more efficient and sustainable modes of transportation, even if they are as original and expensive as this ebike, which costs €6,249 (RM30,000)

Note that in 2020, the German bicycle manufacturer Canyon presented a similar concept - a veritable vision of the mobility of the future - taking the form of a strange-looking capsule with a passenger compartment that can open completely if it gets too hot, a bit like a convertible car.


China to set deadline on banning sales of traditional fuel cars

                BEIJING: China has begun studying when to ban the production and sale of cars using traditional fuels, the official Xinhua news agency reported, citing comments by the vice industry minister, who predicted “turbulent times” for automakers forced to adapt.

Xin Guobin did not give details on when China, the world’s largest auto market, would implement such a ban. Britain and France have said they will ban new petrol and diesel cars from 2040.

“Some countries have made a timeline for when to stop the production and sales of traditional fuel cars,” Xin, vice minister of the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, was quoted as saying at an auto industry event in the city of Tianjin on Saturday.

“The ministry has also started relevant research and will make such a timeline with relevant departments. Those measures will certainly bring profound changes for our car industry’s development,” he said.

To combat air pollution and close a competitive gap between its newer domestic automakers and their global rivals, China has set goals for electric and plug-in hybrid cars to make up at least a fifth of Chinese auto sales by 2025.

Xin said the domestic auto industry faced “turbulent times” over the years to 2025 to make the switch towards new energy vehicles, and called on the country’s car makers to adapt to the challenge and adjust their strategies accordingly.

Banning the sale of petrol- and diesel-powered cars would have a significant impact on oil demand in China, the world’s second-largest oil consumer.

Last month, state oil major China National Petroleum Corp (CNPC) said China’s energy demand will peak by 2040, later than the previous forecast of 2035, as transportation fuel consumption rises through the middle of the century.

Song Qiuling, a senior finance ministry official, said during Saturday’s event that government subsidies, intended for jump-starting the new energy auto industry, could easily be abused if held long-term and led to “mindless expansion” and excess capacity in the sector, Xinhua reported.

She said China would gradually withdraw such financial subsidies for the sector, and instead speed up the establishment of a credits accumulation policy to support the industry.

Late last month, Reuters reported that China was likely to delay implementing tough new sales quotas for electric plug-in vehicles, giving global automakers more time to prepare.

Under the latest proposals, 8 percent of automakers’ sales would have to be battery electric or plug-in hybrid models by next year, rising to 10 percent in 2019 and 12 percent in 2020, but the rules would not be enforced until 2019, a year later than initially planned, the sources said.

In July, Britain said it would ban the sale of new petrol and diesel cars from 2040 to cut pollution, replicating plans by France and cities such as Madrid, Mexico City and Athens.


GLOHH offers new taillight technology for original Range Rover Sport - VIDEOS

                LONDON: Automotive lighting manufacturer GLOHH has given one of its most sought-after lighting products a facelift.

Following on the original GL-3 taillight, GLOHH is introducing a world first for the Range Rover Sport with the release of the GL-3 Dynamic. Designed exclusively for the L320 2005-2013 models, the new-look GL-3 taillight features the innovative Dynamic Flow Indicator. Incorporating both precision engineering and sleek aesthetics, the new GL-3 Dynamic is primed to become the universal must-have lighting accessory for Range Rover Sport owners.

For maximum visual impact, the GL-3 Dynamic features a flow indicator consisting of a strip of LEDs. The 24 LEDs are aligned in blocks of four and programmed to light up in succession each time the indicator or hazard warning lights are in use. Controlled by a microprocessor, the sequence of light lasting 350ms flows in the direction of intended travel. The 20% increase in length from the previous model, delivers a fluid stream of light improving visibility of your vehicle even in low-light conditions and over long distances.

“The original GL-3 taillight was never just a fashion accessory for Range Rover Sport drivers - this intuitive rear light cluster provided users with a sleek look, improved power efficiency and an easy plug and play installation," said Glohh marketing manager Azhar Ahmad.

"It was only natural to us that our new edition should evolve further. Incorporating the dynamic indicator feature adds an additional layer of safety and the new fog lights offer greater visibility when you need it most."

The GL-3 Dynamic is available from the GLOHH website for US$898 (RM3,669).