Porsche's historic colours make comeback

                STUTTGART: Porsche will introduce classic Porsche colours as a bespoke option.

There is also a choice of creating bespoke shades to customer specifications.

Such colours, available for all model series, would be offered through Porsche's personalistaion scheme called Porsche Exclusive Manufaktur.

In recent years, the demand for custom-painted Porsche cars has risen sharply, according to the German sports car maker.

With its new options, Porsche Exclusive Manufaktur has significantly increased capacity in this area. A new colour-mixing bench has been put into operation at the main plant in Zuffenhausen, where paint specialists blend several dozen ingredients down to the last milligram in order to achieve the desired shade.

"The focus is on the availability of “Unusual paint finishes have been familiar throughout the history of our brand and are an important differentiating feature,” said Alexander Fabig, Head of Individualisation and Classic.

“With this offer, we are reviving cult-classic colours and expanding the extensive range of standard and special colours across all the model series by more than 160 shades.”

The range is diverse and depends on the model series and production location.

For the 911 and 718 model series, there are more than 100 additional paint colours to choose from. For the Panamera, Macan and Cayenne, there are more than 50 options, while a further 65 colours complete the range for Taycan customers.

The custom colours add about three months to the delivery lead time compared to standard colours. Prices within the model series vary depending on the derivative.

The offer is set to be integrated into the Porsche Car Configurator from early 2022. Online filter options, for example by colour family, and background information on the individual colours will follow soon.


Harley-Davidson outlet in Petaling Jaya officially opens

                PETALING JAYA: American motorcycle manufacturer Harley-Davidson, together with its newly appointed authorised sole-distributor in Malaysia, Didi Resources Sdn Bhd recently opened its dealership in Petaling Jaya.

This is the first dealership in a refreshed independent dealer network within Malaysia.

Located at The Gasket Alley, Petaling Jaya, the showroom will be operated under Goh Brothers Motorcycles Sdn Bhd, a company under Goh Brothers Capital, which is known to be a retail specialist for several automotive brands in Malaysia.

Harley-Davidson owners, riders from Kuala Lumpur and throughout Malaysia, along with managing director of Harley-Davidson Asia Emerging Markets, Johan Kleinsteuber, chairman of Didi Resources, Rewi Hamid Bugo and chairman of Goh Brothers Motorcycles, Goh Kian Sin were present at the official opening.

The new 20,000 square foot dealership will offer Harley-Davidson’s entire range of bikes, including the limited edition 115th anniversary Street Glide, Road Glide Special and MY18 Softail lineup.

It also showcases Harley-Davidson general merchandise and genuine Harley-Davidson parts and accessories.

It also provides after-sales services with a complete stock of parts.

In addition, there will be 4 plus 2 fully equipped service bays and a body & paint center, all manned by technicians trained by Harley-Davidson University.

Additionally, the dealership will serve as a meeting forum for local riders and enthusiasts to share their passion for riding together across Malaysia’s many breathtaking destinations.

Didi Resources, an authorised importer of Harley-Davidson in Malaysia, is also the official sole-distributor for Zero Engineering Motorcycles from Japan and Moto Guzzi from Italy.


Honda Malaysia hopes to regain momentum before 2021 ends

                KUALA LUMPUR: Honda Malaysia aims to regain its business momentum in the last four months of 2021 through the launch of new models, financial initiatives and promotional campaigns.

Managing director and chief executive officer Madoka Chujo said the group is planning to launch several new models that feature Honda’s "Next Generation Advanced Technology" in the next few months.

"These launches will provide Malaysians with more new model options during the current sales tax exemption period, which has been extended to Dec 31, 2021,” she said in a statement today.

In addition to reduced prices, Honda Malaysia is offering the September Special Benefits promotion from Sept 1-30, where customers can enjoy up to RM6,000 worth of benefits.

Customers may also take advantage of the Special Financing Programme that allows them to enjoy lower monthly instalment payments during the early stages of their car ownership, which would be ongoing until Dec 31.

They can pre-book their car of choice via the online pre-booking platform, prebook.honda.com.my and the Honda Touch mobile application.

The carmaker added that its manufacturing plant in Malacca and dealerships are back in operation.


                NEW YORK: Automotive CEOs for years warned that making electric cars would devastate profits. They’re now saying the margins on them may not be so bad after all.

Executives from Ford Motor Co. to Volkswagen AG have made bullish statements on their electric forays in recent weeks, forecasting that battery-powered cars will be as profitable as combustion-engine models around mid-decade.

Until recently, automakers at times openly lamented the massive cost of developing electric drivetrains and retooling factories.

They built halfheartedly designed electric vehicles that were limited in range and expensive to make, with Fiat Chrysler’s former chief executive going so far as to plead with customers not to buy a model that lost the company money.

Now that manufacturers are churning out models purpose-built to be electric and benefiting from falling battery prices, the math is looking much better.

“There are even signs that the EV business could be at least as good as the business with the conventional cars,” Volkswagen CEO Herbert Diess said during a March 16 earnings call.

Changing giant

The German manufacturer is a prime example of how much things have changed. In 2015, VW admitted to rigging millions of diesel engines to hide how dirty they were. It’s now the top EV maker in Europe after developing a standardised platform to underpin dozens of new electric models.

Diess is betting that platform sharing and greater control over batteries - VW plans to have six cell factories across Europe - will help bolster profitability. The company plans to use its massive scale - it owns a dozen brands, including Porsche and Audi - to pool resources and drive down costs.

The group’s main VW brand expects EV margins to hit a tipping point around 2025. Returns for the ID.4 SUV, which is just starting sales, will be “more or less similar” to a comparable combustion model, according to the brand’s CEO Ralf Brandstaetter.

The group’s budget businesses will take longer to make money, according to Arndt Ellinghorst, an analyst at Sanford C. Bernstein. He estimates that battery prices would have to drop to US$60 per kilowatt-hour from current levels of roughly US$140 per kilowatt-hour for the likes of Skoda and Seat to profitably make EVs.

Growth opportunity

For General Motors Co. CEO Mary Barra, EVs offer a way to expand the automaker’s market share in the US. GM sent its stock price soaring in January when it said it wanted to phase out gas and diesel cars by 2035.

“Especially if you look at in the United States on the coast, we don’t get what I would say is our fair share of the market,” Barra said during GM’s Feb 10 earnings call.

EV margins will match what they are today for combustion-engine cars by the “mid or later part of the decade,” she said.

BMW AG is introducing an electric-focused platform by mid-decade and expects it to deliver returns on par with combustion-engine models.

The fact that BMW is sticking to its long-term margin target shows that the manufacturer is confident on EV profitability, chief financial officer Nicolas Peter said Wednesday.

The reduced complexity of EVs means less spending on drivetrain parts, while the electric transition has forced automakers to raise efficiencies, he told reporters.

Robust pricing

Ford shares also have surged this yeaAuto CEOs see EV profit potential after years of discouragementr as it’s announced plans to invest US$29 billion in electric and self-driving vehicles by 2025.

Its European executives recently surprised JPMorgan analysts by expressing confidence in reaching a 6% operating margin target even as it retools factories and shifts to offering only fully electric passenger vehicles by the end of the decade.

Ford’s Europe management team struck “a decidedly upbeat tone with regard to the financial impact of electrification,” and suggested pricing and margins for the new Mustang Mach-E will be strong, JPMorgan’s Ryan Brinkman wrote in a March 23 report.

While subsidies have helped buyers afford purchases in markets including Germany and France, EV sales also are strong in the UK, where aid isn’t as generous.

“Consumers are getting used to high BEV prices from the beginning,” said Juergen Pieper, an analyst at Bankhaus Metzler, referring to battery-electric vehicles. “That ‘premium status’ might hold for a long time.”


One-off Rolls-Royce Phantom Astrum introduced

                ABU DHABI: Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Ltd has unveiled a one-of-a-kind Phantom Astrum for a Middle East client,

Created by the Bespoke Collective of specialist designers, engineers and craftspeople at the Home of Rolls-Royce, Goodwood, the unique Phantom Astrum features a specially-commissioned Sapphire Astrum Gallery, displayed behind a single pane of glass running the full width of the fascia.

Designed and made by leading British contemporary silversmith and jeweller Richard Fox, whose work also includes the trophy for the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, the artwork portrays a starburst of solid silver spears radiating from a brilliant-cut diamond set in platinum.

Each spear is polished and soldered in place by hand, and tipped with a pear-cut sapphire.

The stones are encased in Bleu de Nuit, a rich sapphire lacquer that reflects and intensifies their magnificent colours.

The backing is made using the guilloché technique, in which a highly precise, intricate repeating pattern is engraved into the surface using a special lathe.

To complement the Gallery, the dashboard clock has a sterling silver surround decorated with a guilloché pattern, with a matching Sapphire Blue lacquer overlay giving depth and iridescence to the clockface.

The Phantom Sapphire Astrum exterior is finished in a sophisticated Milori Sapphire with a hand-painted Tan coachline, and body-coloured wheel centres with a single Tan pinstripe.

Fox said the Astrum has an immediate impression of weightless suspension, almost as though gravity does not exist in this Gallery piece.

“The central diamond, encased in platinum, is like a star, floating in the depths of space – with a starburst of solid silver spears.

“The spears also give an incredible sense of movement and focus, in the way that they radiate from the central brilliant-cut diamond,” he said.

Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Middle East and Africa regional director César Habib said the Phantom Sapphire Astrum is a spectacular example of just what is possible.

“We are delighted to share this magnificent cosmic vista with our clients, and trust it will inspire their own creative visions,” he said.


How mobile phone tech can benefit police and first responder vehicles

                LONDON: Police and first responder vehicles are set to undergo a technology revolution, that will include augmented reality, mobile surveillance and remote device control, according to transport and connectivity software pioneer VNC Automotive.

Drawing on the emerging trends in consumer vehicles, and taking the latest applications borne from mobile phone platforms, the UK based software expert said it is working with forces and conversion specialists as it integrates new systems into a car’s existing infrastructure.

“We’re already seeing a focus on app-based solutions, but there is now a shift towards exploring how technology including remote control functionality, the relaying of remote surveillance footage to a car’s dashboard and even augmented reality,” said Philip Handschin, Technical Consultant at VNC Automotive. “However, all this functionality needs to remain intuitive and easily integrated with the large format touch screens that are becoming commonplace in today’s vehicles.”
 Handschin.
With over a decade’s experience in passenger vehicle systems, and its work in  35 million vehicles worldwide, VNC Automotive is known for programming highly effective entertainment, navigation and comfort control systems. However, this knowledge is now proving invaluable when it comes to law enforcement and first responder vehicle conversions.

“We can tap into the systems that OEMs build into cars, utilising large format touch screens and the existing hardware for communication and connectivity, but add functionality that empowers police and first responders to allow them to work more effectively and make better-informed decisions,” said Handschin.

Information highways

Every second counts in an emergency, and responders need to have access to the latest information – whether they’re running standard checks, on route or in pursuit.

The status of team vehicles, including air support, and other emergency services, is vital, as is getting on scene quickly – taking into account traffic and other delays. All this means that information presented to the driver and passenger in a form that is quickly assimilated is vital.

“The benefits that augmented reality can provide are obvious when considering navigation, call status and database information. It also means the driver need not take their eye off the road, and can make decisions with fewer distractions.”

This includes technologies like ANPR (Automatic Number Plate Recognition), where the instantaneous notification of illegal and stolen vehicles and banned drivers allows action to be taken quickly and effectively, removing issues from roads.

With the emergence of drones and advanced robotics (such as the headline grabbing Boston Dynamics’ Spot) it isn’t too much of a stretch to see how video and data from units operating in dangerous environments can be relayed to vehicles and allow police, paramedics and even fire fighters the chance to react accordingly.

Smart responders

Already many police and responder services are moving to mobile devices, with smartphones replacing separate items of equipment. In some cases smart platforms and apps now form part of the daily work process, including reporting and file management, database access and team communications.

With a host of connectivity services built into the cars at the factory as standard, allowing an officer’s phone to sync with a vehicle is an obvious first step, but VNC Automotive can go beyond what standard consumer systems offer.

Its IVI connectivity software includes options like the automatic locking of the car when away from the vehicle (talking with a member of the public or pursuing a suspect on foot), the ability to activate remote functions like sirens, cameras and PA systems, or even transmit location information in an emergency.

Looking ahead this line of thinking allows for the future integration of wearable tech, that can cover biometrics, personal security and incident management.

Reducing cabin pressure

With long shifts and the requirement to wear bulky equipment, anything that can make officers and first responders’ time in vehicles safer, more productive and comfortable is welcome.

That extends to the ease of using the systems and technology – if the controls are awkward and movement restricted mistakes will be made and time lost. VNC Automotive said its proprietary software allows additional hardware, like rugged laptops, to be safely stowed in the boot yet quickly integrated via the factory fitted touch screen.

There’s a knock on benefit when it comes to passenger safety. The severity of injury during a collision rises steeply if there’s bulky equipment mounted near the dashboard. With clutter removed, airbags and other safety systems can operate as originally intended.

Remote controls

With so much technology in each vehicle, their function moves beyond transport and they effectively become intelligence gathering hubs - passing valuable, first-hand data back to a central command centre and allowing the coordination of teams and other services.

VNC Automotive said its  solutions have allowed command centres to connect with vehicles in real-time, controlling certain systems such as sirens and providing crucial navigation information to officers.

Extending this idea, video and other data can be transmitted and the live feed from every vehicle used to provide a net of surveillance around a serious incident. Recorded and indexed this could prove vital as evidence for later convictions.


CaltexGO app launched to provide seamless payment at fuel-up

                PETALING JAYA: Chevron Malaysia Ltd, which markets the Caltex brand, has launched CaltexGO, Caltex’s mobile payment app, to customers in the Klang Valley.

The integrated mobile app provides a faster and easier way for motorists on-the-go to pay for fuel, earn and redeem JOURNEY™ card BPoints, locate a service station and view their electronic receipts, using only their mobile device from within the comfort and safety of their vehicles.

Aligning with Malaysia’s drive towards a smart cashless society, the newly launched app is Caltex’s ongoing response to evolving consumer needs and expectations.

CaltexGO answers the call to reduce pinch points such as prolonged waiting times and facilitates a need for hassle-free convenience.

Motorists making payment with CaltexGO simply need to launch the app with a registered payment card and JOURNEY™ card, indicate the station and pump number and fuel up according to their preferred amount.

Users can also check BPoints and redeem them for fuel before making payment.

Chevron Malaysia Ltd country chairman Jay Gomez said the new app was more than just delivering quality products and services as the priority was to improve customers’ experience and subsequently, continue their journeys on the road.

“And with CaltexGO, motorists who are keen to get in and out of the service station can now fuel up, skip the queue, and pay,” said Jay Gomez, Country Chairman of Chevron Malaysia Limited.

As part of its new digital transformation, Chevron used an agile process to develop CaltexGO - gathering feedback from CaltexGO users in Singapore, Thailand, Caltex family and friends trial users, and learning from industry best practices to develop the final product.

“While CaltexGO at launch is only available at Caltex stations in the Klang Valley, customers in other parts of the country will be able to use the app by the first half of 2022.

Although mobile payment is gaining popularity, safety requirements at the service station have not changed.

Motorists should only use their phones after their vehicle’s engine is switched off, when inside an enclosed stationary vehicle or when inside the convenience store.

As a safety caution, customers must be mindful of their surroundings and focus on the refueling task at hand.

More than convenience and an improved experience, CaltexGO users also stand to receive attractive rebates and rewards with app-exclusive benefits.

First-time users who pump a minimum of RM30 worth of fuel at Caltex will receive a RM5 cashback.

They will also receive another RM5 cashback when they pump a minimum of RM30 on subsequent visits (capped at two times per user at RM10 cashback throughout the promo period ending December.

Download CaltexGO via Google Play or Apple’s App Store and discover a completely seamless fuel-up at Caltex.

For details, visitwww.caltex.com/my/.


MARii and Pekema to speed up EV infra setup

                KUALA LUMPUR: The Malaysia Automotive Robotics and IoT Institute (MARii) and the Malay Vehicle Importers and Traders Association of Malaysia (Pekema) have inked an agreement to accelerate electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure development.

In a joint statement today, MARii and Pekema said under the agreement, the parties would collaborate to set up 1,000 EV charging stations (DC rapid chargers) around the country by 2025.

They will also co-develop connective applications that include e-payment, charger locators, battery management systems and service centre networks for the charging ecosystem.

"The development activities will be coordinated through an EV Centre of Excellence that will be established through this partnership to ensure a harmonised and integrated charging ecosystem that caters to the demands of future e-mobility users.

"The centre will also operate as a focal point for aftersales service support as well as implementing training, repairs, warranties, consultation, communication, marketing and coordination of strategic collaborations in EV-related areas,” it said.

MARii chief executive officer Datuk Madani Sahari said the centre would be an important platform for the EV ecosystem, particularly in sales, after-sales and consumer experience of EVs, and would add a new dimension to the ecosystem of MARii facilities such as the MARii Design Centre, MARii Academy, MARii Simulation and Analysis Centre and the National Emission Test Centre.

Pekema president Datuk Zainuddin Abdul Rahman said 11 EV charging stations have been built this year.

"Pekema is further committed to developing after-sales service centres, creating new opportunities in high skilled jobs, and accelerating the adoption of green renewable energy."


Lotus Evija custom configurator revealed

HETHEL(UK): As the Evija moves ever closer to series production, Lotus has revealed how customers of the all-electric hypercar are choosing their vehicle’s bespoke specification.

The exclusive nature of the 2,000PS two-seater means every customer journey is unique. Requests for personalisation on every aspect of the Evija – from striking exterior paint colour combinations to highly detailed interior trim – are all part of the enhanced ordering process.

Production of the Lotus Evija will start later in 2020, and the first year’s allocation is already designated to customers around the world.

The starting point for every car’s specification is an all-new touch-screen configurator.

Designed especially for Lotus, its ultra-powerful graphics processor creates stunning high-definition ‘photo-realistic’ images and animations. Developed using advanced gaming software, these allow the buyer to build and personalise their own car from the ground up and visualise it from every angle, inside and out.

Thanks to an advanced imaging technique known as ray-tracing, they can even place their Evija into multiple environments around the world to see how localised sunlight levels will affect their choices.

The final element is the creation of a fully personalised ‘360 degree fly-through’ film exclusive to each customer.

Lotus has released a series of all-new images of the Evija captured from the configurator. They show a car set inside the Lotus Design studios at Hethel, UK – the global home of Lotus since 1966 – and finished in stunning Atomic Red with Carbon Black accent pack.

They are accompanied by a new animation which additionally reveals the car in Solaris Yellow and Carbon Black.

The configurator is just one element of the Evija experience. At regular intervals during the purchase process, each customer will receive from Lotus a unique gift to reflect the exclusive and technical nature of the Evija.

That will culminate in a beautiful hand-crafted build book, packed with stunning imagery of the customer’s individual car during key moments of its assembly. The book will be presented to the customer with their Evija key as part of the handover celebrations.

Simon Clare, Executive Director, Global Marketing, Lotus, said: “We know every customer journey will be unique and our highly experienced customer relations team is ready to support any requests. With state-of-the-art digital tools such as the new configurator, we can accommodate customer preferences and requirements from anywhere in the world at the touch of a button.”


Here's the updated Audi A3

INGOLSTADT (Germany): The successful model from Audi is now even more attractive: The Audi A3 approaches the starting line with new driver assistance systems and engines as well as newly designed headlights and taillights.

Also new on board is the innovative operating and display concept, Audi virtual cockpit. The new A3 is available in a three-door version and as a Sportback, a sedan and a Cabriolet.

The sporty Audi S3 version comes with numerous innovations and has even further enhanced its dynamic potential. The A3 series offers the most versatile line of drive systems in the compact segment with the Audi A3 Sportback e-tron and the Audi A3 Sportback g-tron.

With numerous driver assistance systems, the new Audi A3 raises the bar in the premium compact segment yet again. The further developed Audi active lane assist and Audi pre sense front, including predictive pedestrian protection, make town and country driving even safer.

New in the segment is the traffic jam assist, which works together with Audi adaptive cruise control (ACC) and its Stop&Go feature.

The highlight in the interior of the new Audi A3 is the Audi virtual cockpit.

The Audi virtual cockpit displays the most important driving-relevant information in high resolution on a 12.3-inch diagonal TFT screen.

The driver can switch between two views by pressing the “View” button on the multifunction steering wheel. In classic mode, the instruments appear as large as the usual analog displays. In infotainment mode, however, a central window predominates, which provides more space to the navigation map or shows lists for the telephone, radio and audio.

The tachometer and speedometer appear as small round clocks.

The new Audi A3 appears even sportier and more expressive than ever. Its Singleframe grille features sharper contours and is broader. The headlights are flatter, with distinctive outer contours.

The rear accentuates the width of the new A3 – with the horizontal illuminated graphics of the rear lights and the separation edge above the redesigned diffuser.

The engine lineup for the Audi A3 comprises six engines (three petrol and three diesel units). Their power output ranges from 110hp to 190hp.

Twelve paint colors are available to choose from, including the five new colors Ara blue, Cosmic blue, Nano gray, Tango red and Vegas yellow.


Toyota launches AWD versions of Camry and Avalon sedans

                DALLAS: Toyota has announced new variants of its best-selling sedans to help drivers stay safe on the slick, icy streets of North America, the AWD Camry and AWD Avalon.

Despite other car makers reducing their sedan offerings in favour of crossovers and SUVs, Toyota is launching new variants of the Camry and Avalon — two sedan models which the company has been producing for decades — which have been tailored for regions affected by snowy streets and icy interstates.

For the first time since 1991, the Camry will now be available with all-wheel drive, and for the first time in its entire history, so will the Avalon. Because neither model was designed to be AWD, both had to undergo serious structural changes to fit in the parts necessary for the new drive system.

According to the company, the vehicles will react to front wheel slippage by directing "up to 50 percent of engine torque to the rear wheels," a response which will automatically disengage when it is no longer needed.

Complimenting this new drive system on each model will be a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Both models generate over 200hp of power.

The AWD Camry will arrive in North American dealerships early this spring with a 2020 model year designation, and the AWD Avalon will be a 2021 model when it hits the market next fall.


California startup aims to tackle battery degradation in electric cars

(From left) Coreshell Technologies' Roger Basu, Jose Rodriguez and Jonathan Tan at one of the company's labs in Richmond, California. — Reuters
SAN FRANCISCO: Lithium-ion batteries are essential to electric vehicles, but they have drawbacks: they are hard to make and degrade over time.

A San Leandro, California-based start-up on Aug 13 said it had raised US$4mil (RM16.75mil) in funding and is working with German chemical giant BASF SE on a new technology to tackle those problems, aiming one day to reduce the cost of lithium ion batteries while boosting their capacities and extending their lifetimes.

Coreshell Technologies makes a coating that would go into the material layers that separate the electrodes in lithium-ion batteries.

To produce power, lithium ions move back and forth between electrodes inside the battery. But as they pass through layers, some of the lithium gets stuck, both depleting it and making it harder for remaining ions to move back and forth.

Coreshell said its coating allows the lithium to pass through more easily and without getting stuck, which speeds up the break-in process during battery manufacturing, allows less lithium to be used and could mean longer battery life.

But the key advance, the company's founders said, was figuring out how to apply the coating in a liquid form as the separation layers are manufactured on "roll-to-roll" machinery that resembles a newspaper printing press.

"It has to fit into that style of processing" to be economically feasible, said Jonathan Tan, the company's CEO and co-founder. "And that's not something that anyone has been able to do before with these coatings."

Coreshell is working with BASF, a major supplier of high energy density cathode active materials in batteries, to test its coatings with BASF materials. A BASF spokeswoman said Coreshell's coatings have demonstrated performance improvements over standard materials.

Coreshell on Aug 13 said the US$4mil in funding was raised in a financing round led by Entrada Ventures. Other backers in the funding round included Baruch Future Ventures, Tsingyuan Ventures, the California Energy Commission, Sema Translink, Berkeley Skydeck and Alchemist Accelerator, Coreshell said.


Hap Seng Star contest winners get prizes worth RM330,000

                PETALING JAYA: Twelve winners of Hap Seng Star Pre-Owned Car contest walked home with prizes worth more than RM330,000 at the Hap Seng Star Balakong Autohaus last week.

The contest was held between July 28 and Aug 6 and was opened to personal and company registered participants who bought a Mercedes-Benz certified pre-owned car.

The grand prize – a pre-owned Mercedes-Benz C 180 Avantgarde – was won by Perfect Solutec Sdn Bhd, while the first prize winner - SS Builders Sdn Bhd – received a Mercedes-Benz B 200.

Five winners took away International Travel vouchers worth RM5,000 and another five winners won the Spa, Dine and Stay in Wellness Resort for two persons worth RM1,600.

 The plush interior of Hap Seng Star Balakong Autohaus.

The prizes were given away by Hap Seng Star chief executive Harald Behrend and general manager of sales and marketing Sunny Tan.

The Mercedes-Benz Proven Exclusivity Centre in Hap Seng Star Balakong has sold over 1,000 units of Mercedes-Benz pre-owned cars since June last year.

Under its Proven Exclusivity programme, each vehicle undergoes a rigorous 215 multi-point inspection which includes the vehicle’s history, current exterior and interior condition, engine as well as safety feature checks.

The programme also provides a minimum 12-months limited warranty extension with unlimited mileage. The warranty extension is cover over and above the remaining manufacturer warranty.

For more information, visit www.hapseng.mercedes-benz.com.my.

READ MORE: Hap Seng Star Balakong Proven Exclusivity Centre opens Hap Seng Star Balakong Autohaus.


Kia Picanto sports new look and more standard features in major makeover

                SEOUL: The Picanto, Kia’s modern compact hatchback, has been enhanced with a new eye-catching design and with advanced technologies as seen on other models in the brand’s wider model line-up.

It comes with the choice between baseline and "GT-Line" trim levels. The sporty GT-Line combines a stylish exterior with advanced technology, and is targeted at younger, first-car customers and working professionals alike.

Picanto is one of Kia’s best-selling models in several regions worldwide and remains a particular favourite among European A-segment drivers who value short journeys and access to limited parking space.

The new Picanto, still in its third generation (from 2017), comes with more standard features than ever before, and its driver assistance systems help make driving in busy European cities easier and more comfortable.

With up to 1,010 litres of storage space (VDA), its boot can store a folding bicycle or e-scooter.

The enhanced Picanto is inspired by Kia’s "Opposites United" design philosophy, which creates a bold and futuristic impression with a modern and sporty design.

Incorporated with the enhanced Picanto’s new front bumper, signature "tiger nose" grille, fender and bonnet, its powerful new light signature leads into the front air intake elements and gives the car a dramatic image. The optional LED headlights and Daytime Running Lights emphasise modernity and technology, as well as giving the new Picanto a wide, confident stance.

A simple and stable rear design highlights the vertical connectivity between the new Picanto’s redesigned rear lights and rear bumper. Its strong and wide rear light signature uses the volume and core of the new rear bumper and new tailgate to emphasise strength and width.

Picanto baseline comes with 14-inch wheels as standard, and the choice between new 14-inch alloy wheels, 15-inch alloy wheels and new 16-inch wheels is optional. The GT-Line's presence is strengthened with a confident front end with pronounced sporty elements.

The tiger nose grille has been expanded to maximise the look of high performance. The GT-Line also features new dedicated 16-inch diamond cut wheels and a sporty ‘GT-Line’ rear diffuser.

The cabin is available in various finishes. The baseline comes with black cloth seats.

Optional finishes include Glossy Black, as well as a new range of stylish and sensual interior colour packs: Adventurous Green and Rich Brown. These styles are inspired by nature and enhance the customers’ ability to customise the cabin of their car with the premium comfort of artificial leather seats.

The GT-Line features the Glossy Black Pack as standard, with the Adventurous Green Pack as optional. The colour packs always feature customised artificial leather seats and door armrests, as well as coloured surrounds around the air vents and gear selector.

Artificial leather represents the first step in Kia’s strategy to make its vehicle colours, materials and finishes more sustainable.

The new Picanto comes with the choice of two engines: customers can choose between a 1.0-litre or a 1.2-litre petrol engine.

The 1.0-litre engine is a good choice for customers who value efficiency above all, while the 1.2-litre engine is better for customers who want more power, especially for driving at high speeds or uphill.

Both options maximise efficiency and lower CO2 emissions. The naturally aspirated engines feature improved exhaust gas recirculation lines and optimised intake valve timing. In addition, each engine provides improved combustion chamber cooling thanks to new improvements made in this field.

Both engines drive the front wheels via a five-speed manual transmission (5MT) or via Kia’s Automated Manual Transmission (AMT), which is based around a five-speed manual transmission with clutch and gear shift actuators to automate their respective functions.

The AMT offers the best of both worlds: it combines the fuel efficiency of a conventional manual transmission with the convenience of a hassle-free automatic transmission that makes urban traffic much more comfortable.

Kia said the new Picanto delivers on its trademark quick, enjoyable handling responses, aided by independent MacPherson strut suspension at the front and a torsion beam rear axle – without sacrificing its high ride stability. Its relatively long wheelbase of 2,400mm contributes to a natural improvement in ride quality and stability on all types of roads.

A quick steering rack makes for immediate responses to driver inputs, meaning fewer turns of the wheel from lock-to-lock than many rivals (2.8 turns), making the Picanto easy to drive at low speeds and in the city. With the front wheels located close to the front of the vehicle, low weight ahead of the front axle is achieved, as well as more agile handling.

Picanto offers torque vectoring by braking – an additional function of the Electronic Stability Control system (ESC). By using this technology in an A-segment car, the Picanto retains a higher degree of handling and stability under cornering, while helping to reduce understeer during harder cornering.

The new Picanto comes with an 8.0-inch "floating" touchscreen navigation system and a high-resolution 4.2-inch digital display in the driver's instrument cluster as standard.

The vehicle’s 8.0-inch touchscreen navigation system features Bluetooth multi-connection, meaning users can pair up to two mobile devices at the same time – one for hands-free phone and media use, and the other for media use only. The system features both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard.

Kia Connect features include a range of on-board services including live traffic information, weather forecasts, points of interest (POIs), and details of potential on- and off-street parking. Depending on the country, users can remotely send route directions to their car before a journey, check the location of their vehicle, and access vehicle reports and diagnostic notifications.

Meanwhile, Online Voice Recognition lets users search for POIs, addresses, weather updates, or send text messages with voice commands. A new ‘Online Navigation’ routing service uses cloud-based real-time and historical traffic data to predict time-efficient routes more accurately than ever before.

Users can also access the accompanying Kia Connect App, compatible with Android and Apple smartphones, which offers features such as Last Mile Navigation.

This helps customers continue navigating to their destination after they have parked and left the car behind. It also helps Kia customers navigate in towns and cities where parking hubs are often some distance away from shops, cafés, and restaurants.

Lastly, the new Picanto comes fully equipped with new over-the-air functionality, which delivers additional comfort for customers and will also save them time, as the navigation and infotainment systems are automatically kept up to date wirelessly.

The new Picanto features Kia’s Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), and a range of active safety systems to enhance occupant safety, making it one of the safest cars in its class.

Depending on specification, the Picanto’s new ADAS features include Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist 1.5 (FCA) with vehicle, cyclist, and pedestrian detection. This function includes Junction Turning: If a risk of collision arises while turning right at a junction, the function automatically assists with emergency braking.

Additionally, the Picanto is available with Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist (BCA), Lane Keeping Assist (LKA), Driver Attention Warning and Leading Vehicle Departure Warning (DAW+), Intelligent Speed Limit Assist (ISLA) and Lane Following Assist (LFA).

LFA uses the front-facing camera to monitor road markings, controlling the enhanced Picanto’s steering to keep the car in the centre of its lane. It also features Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist (RCCA) which alerts the driver and stops the vehicle if it detects another vehicle approaching from the left or right when reversing out of a parking space.

Moreover, the new Picanto is equipped with an Emergency Stop Signal (ESS), which automatically flashes the hazard warning lights to alert the car behind if the driver brakes suddenly. Hill-start Assist Control (HAC) holds the car on the brake to ensure the car moves away smoothly from a hill start.

In addition, the enhanced Picanto is also equipped with Kia’s Vehicle Stability Management (VSM), Cornering Brake Control (CBC) and Straight-line Stability (SLS) systems as standard, helping drivers maintain control under braking and cornering. Finally, the enhanced Picanto is fitted with up to six airbags throughout the cabin.

A choice of nine vibrant paint finishes enables Picanto to stand out with a bold exterior image; four are new: Signal Red, Smoke Blue, Sporty Blue and Adventurous Green.

It also features ISOFIX child-seat tether and anchor points. The Picanto is backed by Kia’s industry-leading seven-year, 160,000-km warranty as standard.

Kia is transforming into a sustainable mobility solutions provider, with plans to launch 15 BEV models by 2027. Low-cost and fuel-efficient vehicles like the enhanced Picanto help support this transition and pave the way to a future of sustainable mobility.


Renault to host weekend party

KUALA LUMPUR: In conjunction with the Chinese New Year, TC Euro Cars (TCEC), the sole franchise holder for Renault vehicles in Malaysia, is organising a party at the flagship Renault showroom in Petaling Jaya over the weekend of Mar 3 to 4.
The Renault weekend party starts at 11am and ends at 5pm on both days and is open to customers and the general public at Renault Petaling Jaya located at Lot 1A, Jalan Kemajuan, Seksyen 13, 46200 Petaling Jaya, Selangor.

Visitors can look forward to attractive promotions, a host of fun activities and for those who purchase any Renault model, the chance to win a Renault Twizy full-electric vehicle worth RM86,800 through the ‘Buy & Win Contest’.
Great deals with up to RM30,000 in savings are also on offer for key Renault models through the Renault ‘Favours the Bold’ campaign which runs until Mar 31.
TCEC has prepared a host of activities for the CNY Weekend Party which includes:
Lion dance performance on Mar 3 (1pm – 2pm)
HITZ.fm radio DJ featuring the fun and animated Morning Crew - Arnold at the party to keep the crowd entertained on Mar 3 (11am – 2pm)
Food trucks onsite on both days between 12pm – 2pm
Hourly lucky draws, including Cerruti watches and other merchandise sponsored by Raytech, GoCar and Mayflower totalling over RM10,000
Kids activities such as colouring corner and bouncing castle and more GT VERSION - 17-INCH DECARO WHEEL RIMS - OPENING ROOF - TINTED WINDOWS - FRONT AND SIDE RADAR

Car enthusiasts especially fans of hatchback will be pleased to know that they will be able to take a closer look at the stunning Renault Megane GT, which will be on showcase. The full line-up of Renault’s contemporary and stylish vehicles sold in Malaysia will also be on display and available for test drives.

Other key highlights of the Renault weekend party include free car wash for Renault customers on a first come first served basis (Mar 4 only), free on-site vehicle valuation with on-the-spot offer by MUV, as well as the chance to test drive the Renault Twizy.
Renault ‘Favours the Bold’ campaignThrough the Renault campaign, customers who purchase the Koleos – Renault’s premium SUV – will receive a five-year or 100,000km (whichever comes first) maintenance package worth RM6,850. Available in 2WD and 4WD versions, prices for the Renault Koleos start at RM184,200.
The turbocharged Renault Captur crossover, priced at RM109,000, is also available through the campaign at only RM98,000.
Additionally, customers who prefer the Renault Fluence sedan will receive RM30,000 in savings from the promotional price of RM89,888.
For more information log on to www.renault.com.my or www.facebook.com/RenaultMalaysia.


VW Malaysia: No emissions cheating in cars sold locally

                KUALA LUMPUR: Volkswagen Group Malaysia clarified that its vehicles sold locally are not affected by the worldwide scandal engulfing the Wolfsburg-based auto maker over fake emissions tests on diesel cars.

"We have not been selling any vehicles with EA 189 diesel engines in Malaysia," it said in a statement, referring to the engines that Volkwagen AG admitted has an illegal software that helped the company to cheat on emissions tests.

Some 11 million cars sold in the United States, Europe and elsewhere under the Volkswagen group are affected and are subject to recall. Apart from VW cars, they include Audi, Skoda and SEAT cars.

READ ALSO: Reluctant VW car owners in US may hamper recall


New Toyota Drive app brings added convenience

                SHAH ALAM: UMW Toyota Motor Sdn Bhd (UMWT), the sole importer and distributor of Toyota vehicles in Malaysia, is out to provide convenience to its many customers with the release of a new mobile application - Toyota Drive.

Available for free on Apple's App Store or Google's Play Store, the app user is able to schedule service appointments, request road assistance, view service packages, locate the nearest Toyota outlet and stay-up to date with the latest deals.

Here's the breakdown of the services found on the app in greater detail:

1. Service Appointments – Owners can book service appointments for their Toyota vehicle at a preferred authorised Toyota service centre anytime at their convenience.

2. 24Seven Road Assist – Owners can connect to 24Seven Road Assist support service with just a click when they require any assistance (breakdown or accident).

3. Service Packages – Information on various service packages are available for all models.

4. Outlet Locator – Customers can search for the nearest authorised Toyota outlets (sales, service and Body & Paint) in Malaysia.

5. Pre-owned vehicles for sale – For those who are looking for quality pre-owned Toyota vehicles, they can check out the prices and available models at the 6 TopMark locations in Peninsular Malaysia.

Additionally, owners who have registered with Toyota Drive can also access their vehicle’s service history, obtain tips on how to take care of their Toyota vehicle, and visit Toyota’s social media channels.

For more information log on to toyota.com.my or call TOYOTA FREEPHONE: 1800-8- TOYOTA (869682).


BMW launches 2 Series Coupe line in Mexico after plant expansion

                MEXICO CITY: BMW kicked off a new production line on Thursday for its 2 Series Coupe at the company's two-year-old factory in central Mexico, doubling down on its Mexican operations in a push to accelerate global sales.

Export of the new model to North America are expected to begin by the end of this year, with European sales set to start in early 2022, the company said in a statement.

According to BMW's US web page, the 2022 models' starting price will range from about US$36,000 to US$59,000.

BMW invested US$125 million in the new production line for its San Luis Potosi factory, expanding its capacity beyond assembly of its initial model, the 3 Series sedan.

The Mexican investment comes as fears that global demand for such high-end goods could slow as new variants of the coronavirus spread and the auto industry continues to struggle with a semiconductor chip shortage.

BMW did not say in the statement how many units of the 2 Series Coupe it plans to produce at its Mexican plant, the carmaker's only facility that will assemble the 4,000-part model.


Honda debuts refreshed Civic Type R at Tokyo Auto Salon

TOKYO: It's now 2020 and time for Honda to refresh their segment-topping hatch: the Civic Type R. The updated vehicle made its world debut late last week at the Tokyo Auto Salon here.

The interior, exterior, and inner workings of the model have been made up-to-date for the new decade.

In terms of performance, the model has been given a new set of two-piece brake rotors complemented by new brake pads. The suspension, too, has been modified and updated with ride-smoothing dampers.

The 2.0-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder remains the same as the previous iteration of the model, putting out 306hp and 400Nm of torque.

Drivers can choose between three driving modes that tailor the car's driving style to the driver's needs.

Design changes, though limited, are practical.

On the outside, a larger front grille allows for better engine cooling; on the inside, the steering wheel is wrapped in Alcantara, and the shift lever now has shorter distance to travel in order to shift between gears.

Honda Sensing now comes standard on the model which brings a collection of driver safety and assistant features to Type R owners.


'F1' plate bids may exceed RM1mil

                SUNGAI BESAR: The Road Transport Department (JPJ) is expecting bids for the vehicle registration number "F1" to exceed RM1mil.

JPJ director-general Datuk Seri Ismail Ahmad said the bidding process would be done through open tender.

He said the bidding process for the new prefix of the number plate "F" would end on Tuesday, while the tender for the registration number starting with the alphabet "V" would begin on July 15 until the end of the month.

"So far, the most expensive vehicle registration number ever bought was "W1N" at RM746,000 and the "F1" number plate is expected to exceed RM1mil," he said after the 1Community 1RTD Programme at Sekolah Kebangsaan (SK) Seri Makmur, here Saturday.

On May 19, Deputy Transport Minister Datuk Ab Aziz Kaprawi announced that vehicles in the Federal Territory of Putrajaya and Kuala Lumpur would use the new registration numbers starting with the alphabet "F" and "V" respectively.

Ab Aziz said the registration number would be followed by a number from 1 to 9999.


Trabbi prices soar as old East German car cements its cult status

                BERLIN: People used to laugh out loud at the smelly little Trabant motor car that came to typify former communist East Germany, but now enthusiasts are forking out large sums of money to buy one.

Prices have jumped by a third since last year alone and a good example costs between €7,000 (RM34,215) and €9,000 (RM44,000). Tuned special editions and drop-head Trabbis can change hands for up to €30,000.

The German classic car magazine Autobild Klassik rates a bog-standard Trabant 601 in decent condition at €6,600. There is an upward-pointing arrow next to the listing in its value guide which indicates rapidly rising prices.

One reason for the popularity is that many people feel reminded of their past with the car, said Thomas Winkelmann, chairman of the Trabant Club in Zwickau. This is all part of "Ostalgie" or a wistful nostalgia by those who look back at good times in the former east, say experts.

"The car has a completely different value today than it did 20 years ago and has now arrived in the realm of the classic car", said Winkelmann. Spare parts are still available and in some cases are still being manufactured.

"When it comes to prices, the trend is definitely upward," enthusiast Oliver Presch, 36, told the German news website Tag 24. He heads a company which rents out the cars to visitors in Chemnitz.

In the eastern states in particular, the Trabi is riding a wave of nostalgia. After all, in its heyday citizens saved for decades to buy one.

It later became the symbol of a broken country, but some people now look back fondly at aspects of daily life under communism, especially those who claim that only staunch opponents of the regime suffered.

The Trabbi's technology was obsolete when it first came out more than 60 years ago. The fume-belching runabout has a primitive two-stroke engine which runs on a very un-green mixture of oil and petrol and has defied attempt by environmentalists to ban it.

Indeed shoals of Trabbis can also be regularly seen in the streets of modern Berlin where a rental company in the centre near former Checkpoint Charlie rents them out to tourists. Most of those at the wheel are even younger than fans like Presch so what is the attraction?

Well, a brief spin recalls those heady reunification days in November 1989 when the cars and their astounded owners were warmly welcomed throughout western Germany as the Berlin Wall came down. For those who were too young at the time, riding a Trabant captures the magic moment.

Blue clouds of acrid smoke puff out of the finger-thin exhaust pipe. and the "Reng-Teng-Teng" of the tiny engine recalls the protest choruses of the famous Monday demonstrations by citizens. Their mass protests brought down the repressive regime.

In performance terms, the Trabant was a joke: Although the 601 weighed just 600 kilograms, its puny motor could manage only 26 horsepower in the final version. Getting from 0 to 100km/h took 20 seconds and top speed was a humble 110 km/h. This was just as well considering the dire state of most east German roads.

Trabants are now rare on German highways, with around 39,000 examples registered for use in an country of more than 77 million automobiles. Indeed there are are more in use now than in the immediate post-Reunification years.

True Trabbi country is to be found in the eastern state of Saxony where alone 10,000 are still in use, the ADAC car club reports. Brandenburg in second place with 6,300 Trabbis followed by Thuringia with 5,700 examples.

The first Trabbi rolled off the production line of VEB Sachsenring Acar factory on November 7, 1957. Until production ceased in 1991, a good three million units were produced.

The final models had a modern, four-stroke engine but but these had to be more or less given away as most eastern Germans back then did not want to be reminded of their modest motoring past.


Shell and BP face obstacles to gaining wider share of EV charging market

                LONDON: A bird’s eye view of electric vehicle charging infrastructure globally reveals a battle being fought for market share across many sectors - utilities, oil and gas, autos, retail, infrastructure, telecoms and more.

For all these, EV charging offers an opportunity to diversify and grow. But the prospects are less optimistic for the world’s major oil and gas companies, who are defending their current share of the fuel market.

Oil and gas companies are lagging in the public charging market.

According to BNEF research, they operate less than 1% of public chargers in China, 2% in the US and 13% in Europe.

Different dynamics are at play in each region.

In China the government has provided a clearer path to state-owned utilities. In the US, the major oil and gas companies have so far shown less interest in most things green as reflected by BNEFs Oil & Gas Transition Scores.

Also, there is limited EV charging activity compared with Europe, where major companies have sizeable renewable energy portfolios.

But several acquisitions and recent announcements offer some promise of boosting these companies’ shares in the various EV markets in the coming decade.

Shell and BP, with charging operations in Europe, the US and China, have set ambitious roll-out targets.

Over the past five years, Shell has acquired a range of charging start-ups - lamp-post charging provider Ubitricity, New Motion in Europe, and Greenlots in the US, among them - and it has formed a partnership with China’s BYD. It aims to operate 500,000 chargers globally by 2025.

BP has signed several deals, including the acquisitions of UK provider Chargemaster and US fleet charging company Amply Power.

And it’s part of a joint venture with Didi in China and software provider Digital Charging Solutions. BP says it expects to install 70,000 chargers globally by 2030.

These and other efforts are an attempt to replace future losses in fuel revenues, which are likely to be slashed due to the cheaper cost of electricity and increased EV efficiencies; also, about 50% of sales will be lost due to home and depot charging.

Ultra-fast charging for passenger vehicles and fleets, following on their gas station model, are priorities for both BP and Shell.

But even those plans fall short. BP plans to install 8,000 chargers across 4,000 BP and Aral gas stations in Europe - that comes to two chargers per station, barely a blip compared to the 10 plugs at Tesla supercharger stations.

The limited approach won’t persuade consumers that this is convenient for them, and the maintenance costs could prove high given the fewer number of chargers per site.

There’s also a question about whether retrofitting gas stations with chargers is the right strategy for the oil and gas companies.

The existing network might not offer the best locations for chargers going forward, especially as retail charging is expanding.

Supermarkets have had success in this market.

Many, including Walmart and German supermarket chain REWE, along with a bunch of other retailers and restaurants like McDonalds, are installing ultra-fast chargers.

Drivers might pop into a local gas station now and then, if it’s their only option.

But for longer charge times, say 20-40 minutes, it likely would be more appealing to go to a supermarket, shopping centre or restaurant to plug in while running other errands.

Oil and gas companies are picking up on these trends.

Shell has installed a nine bay ultra-fast charging station here and has signed a deal with Waitrose to install chargers - albeit slower 22-50kW ones - across stores in the UK.

Even so, the road ahead won’t be a straight one - they will have to get creative to win over the charging market and diversify across the supply chain.


RON97 petrol price up by 2 sen

                PETALING JAYA: The Government has raised the price of RON97 petrol by two sen to RM2.81 from today.

The new price of RON97 petrol was announced on the Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Ministry's official Facebook account.

Prices of RON95 and diesel were unchanged at RM2.20 and RM2.18 respectively.

In the meantime, the ministry and the Finance Ministry are discussing a new mechanism for subsidised petrol with various target groups. The mechanism is expected to be introduced by early next year.


Oct 14-20: RON97 petrol up 10 sen

                KUALA LUMPUR: The retail prices of RON95 petrol and diesel will remain unchanged at RM2.05 and RM2.15 per litre respectively until Oct 20, says the Finance Ministry.

In a statement today, the ministry said the retail price of RON97 petrol would increase by 10 sen per litre to RM2.87 for the next seven days.

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


May 9-15: No movement in fuel prices

                PETALING JAYA: No changes in fuel pricing from May 9-15.

RON95 petrol remains at RM1.25 a litre; RON97 petrol at RM1.55; and diesel at RM1.40.

The weekly fuel pricing mechanism was reintroduced on Jan 5 last year under the Automatic Pricing Mechanism (APM).

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


Nissan test-drive carnival promises attractive deals

                KUALA LUMPUR: Edaran Tan Chong Motor (ETCM) is giving Malaysian public the chance to test-drive some of Nissan’s bestselling models at the Nissan Test-Drive Carnival in Ipoh and Malacca.

The star of the show will be the new Nissan X-Trail, set to be launched soon in Malaysia.

The X-Trail is said to come with many "world-firsts" and a Nissan-first in technology and safety features. Its new design and improved performance makes the X-Trail an innovative premium crossover, according to Nissan.

The carnival will run from Jan 17-18 (10am to 10pm) at Aeon Bandaraya, Malacca and Aeon Kinta City, Ipoh.

To welcome the Year of the Goat, ETCM is also announcing its ‘Joy of Abundance’ Chinese New Year deals and promotions on selected Nissan models that customers qualify for at the carnival and at showrooms nationwide.

The campaign, which began on Jan 3, will run until Feb 28  and offers Malaysians great savings and packages for Nissan models ranging from Teana, Serena S-Hybrid, Navara, Sylphy, Grand Livina, and X-Gear.

According to Tan Keng Meng, Director of Marketing and Product Planning, the carnival presents ETCM with the opportunity to bring Nissan products closer to Malaysians.

“We believe that by holding the Nissan Test-Drive Carnival, we bring an early festive Chinese New Year cheer to our customers, and we would like everyone to have the chance to experience what Nissan has to offer. We hope that our customers in the southern and northern region will be eager to grab the fantastic deals and packages we have in store for them, and enjoy many fun-filled activities for the family, with exciting giveaways. What is more, the all-new Nissan X-Trail will make an appearance at the carnival,” he said.

Additionally, ETCM is also running a nationwide ‘Test-Drive and Win a Fortune’ contest to give customers the opportunity to win a new Sylphy.

Every customer who test-drives a Nissan is entitled to an entry form, and needs to complete a slogan to join the contest.

Those who buy and register their Nissan car before Feb 28 will be entitled to an additional seven entry forms to increase their chances of winning the Sylphy. The contest runs till Feb 28, and the winner will be selected based on the most creative slogan.

The public are also invited to visit authorised Nissan showrooms on the three weekends beginning Jan 24, Feb 7 and Feb 14 respectively to experience the festivities and check out the deals.


Nissan shares dip on talks of Renault exploring divestment

                TOKYO: Shares of Nissan Motor Co Ltd slumped 5% on Monday, their biggest fall in more than a month, following a report that top shareholder Renault SA may consider lowering its stake in the Japanese automaker.

Bloomberg reported on Friday that Renault may consider lowering its Nissan shareholding as part of plans to separate its electric vehicle business.

The French car maker has been pushing ahead with plans to split its electric and combustion-engine businesses in an attempt to catch rivals such as Tesla and Volkswagen.

On Friday, Renault said all options were on the table for separating the electric vehicle business, including a possible public listing in the second half of 2023.

Any plans would be subject to approval from alliance partner Nissan, Renault finance chief Thierry Pieton said, adding the Japanese automaker was "in the loop" as Renault weighed up its options.

Renault and Nissan have declined to comment on the report.

Shares of Nissan fell to 509.8 yen in Tokyo, marking their biggest one-day decline since early March and underperforming an almost 2% drop in the Nikkei index.

The car makers' two-decade-old alliance, which includes Mitsubishi Motors, was rocked by the 2018 ouster of alliance founder Carlos Ghosn amid a financial scandal. They have since pledged to pool more resources.

In January they said they would work more closely together to make electric cars.

They detailed an US$26bi investment plan for the next five years.

But their unequal relationship has long been a source of friction in Japan.

Renault owns 43.4% of Nissan, which in turn has a 15% non-voting stake in its shareholder.

Renault bailed out Nissan two decades ago, but is now the smaller automaker by sales.


Gentari keen for more clean energy deals in India

                KUALA LUMPUR: Petroliam Nasional Bhd's (Petronas) clean energy solutions arm, Gentari Sdn Bhd, is keen to expand its footprint in India in clean energy solutions through its three current core offerings, namely renewables, hydrogen, and green mobility.

The company said India is an important growth market for Gentari and its investments in renewable energy and hydrogen projects in the country are a continuation of memoranda of understanding signed with various state governments.

"In Tamil Nadu, we have signed a memorandum of understanding with the state government to conduct feasibility studies on green hydrogen production. We will announce our progress on these investments in due course,” Gentari said in response to recent reports that Petronas would invest 340 billion rupees (RM18.7 billion) in projects in the southern Indian state.

According to these Indian media reports, the national oil company aims to set up a green hydrogen and ammonia plant and its project has received the state government's clearance.

It was one of the five investment proposals from Indian and foreign companies approved at the Cabinet meeting chaired by chief minister M.K. Stalin in Chennai, said the reports.

As a country on its way to becoming the world’s fourth-largest economy and the third-largest energy consumer, India has vast growth potential for the development of sustainable, reliable, and economical low-carbon energy, Gentari noted.

"This offers opportunities for global players to participate in supporting India’s goal of reaching net-zero emissions by 2070, which includes meeting 50 per cent of its electricity needs with non-fossil fuel-based sources by 2030,” it added.

Gentari said it has already made good strides in renewables in India with 1.4 gigawatts of solar capacity serving around 350 customers, particularly in the commercial and industrial sectors, as well as in utility-scale renewables.

In addition, Gentari’s green mobility efforts in India have achieved significant milestones, with its Vehicle-as-a-Service already clocking four million clean kilometres through the current fleet of about 1,000 three-wheeler electric vehicles serving third-party logistics and e-commerce operators as well as private users, supported by more than 170 charging points.

"Gentari has several initiatives in the pipeline in India and we look forward to announcing new developments in the future,” it added.


New Nissan Serena S-Hybrid attracts 2,500 bookings

                KUALA LUMPUR: The new Nissan Serena S-Hybrid has recorded 2,500 bookings as of June 8.

Of that, 757 units have been registered in just four weeks after its official launch.

“Bookings for the All-New Nissan Serena S-Hybrid has demonstrated the great acceptance of our hot new model," said Edaran Tan Chong Motor Sdn Bhd (ETCM) sales and marketing director Christopher Tan.

Recently, to celebrate this achievement, a key handover ceremony was held at ETCM Jalan Raja Laut in Kuala Lumpur for Lokman Hakim Mohamed Yusoff, who took delivery of his new Serena S-Hybrid.

Also present were Tan and Nissan Motor Asia Pacific Co Ltd vice president (marketing and sales - Asia and Oceania) Vincent Wijnen.

The new Serena S-Hybrid has new features such as a first-in-its-class Intelligent Around View Monitor (I-AVM) with four cameras that provide a 360-degree bird’s-eye view of the vehicle, Intelligent Moving Object Detection (I-MOD) that detects moving objects surrounding the vehicle to alert the driver, hands-free dual power sliding doors that operate by a simple quick kick below the door to open or close, 7 USB-powered ports, dual back door that can be opened easily even in tight parking spaces, and six airbags.

Also, customers can enjoy the “Best Deal Ever 0% GST” campaign, offering GST at 0% plus Duit Raya Savings which translates to an on-the-road price without insurance of RM135,195.59 for the Premium Highway Star and RM123,874.84 for the Highway Star (Peninsular Malaysia), in June 2018.

Test drive the new Nissan Serena S-Hybrid, the No.1 MPV in Japan at Nissan Test Drive Carnival held at selected Nissan showrooms nationwide.


Mitsubishi Triton survives Borneo Safari Challenge

                KOTA KINBABALU: Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia (MMM) is proud to announce that its Triton VGT (Variable Geometry Turbo) 2.5L Common Rail diesel with a five-speed manual transmission was able to endure the world's toughest 4X4 expedition - the Borneo Safari.

Five-time Borneo Safari veteran Paul Si from Kuching, Sarawak, and Lionel Yew from Selangor, who has been in four-wheel-drive adventures for more than a decade, including two Borneo Safaris, piloted the Triton.

Equipped with the minimum, as mandated by the Borneo Safari organizers for the eight-day seven-night expedition, that included a Warn winch with a pulling force of 4.5 tonnes was fitted, including a snorkel, GT Radial Komodo Extreme 280/85 16R tyres were used,

The Triton’s turbo diesel engine put out 175bhp at 4,000rpm and 400Nm of torque at at 2,000 rpm (50Nm more than before), while its turning radius is currently the best at 5.9m and other features include touch screen audio, auto climate control, push start button and keyless operation.

Both Si and Yew prepared for problems usually associated with modern vehicles with independent front suspension set-ups by carrying spare drive shafts and steering tie-rod ends, but these were not needed.

Even the rubber boots protecting the front drive shafts against mud and sand, which are usually shredded by the end, managed to remain intact.

The CBU Triton 2.5L VGT with a 5-speed manual costs RM92,114.64 on-the-road with GST without insurance and is assembled at Mitsubishi Motors’ global production hub in Thailand.

The Triton also comes with two years of free maintenance and a factory warranty of three years or the first 100,000 km (whichever comes first).

 (L-R) Yang with Triton VGT MT drivers Yew and Si.

“We are very proud that the all-new Triton VGT MT has successfully completed the Borneo Safari! MMM is happy to say that the all-new Triton is the tougher and better truck, since 1977,” said MMM chief executive officer Yang Won-Chul.


Rivian on track to meet production target of 25,000 vehicles

                LOS ANGELES: Electric vehicle maker Rivian Automotive Inc said on Tuesday it is on track to achieve its production target of 25,000 vehicles this year.

The company said it had made 2,553 vehicles and delivered 1,227 cars in the first quarter. It produced 1,015 vehicles and delivered 920 last year after starting deliveries of its R1T pickup truck towards the end of the third quarter.

Rivian said last month that supply-chain issues could cut its planned 2022 production in half to 25,000 vehicles.

The company has a factory in Normal, Illinois, where it makes the R1S sport utility vehicle, R1T pickup truck and a delivery van for investor and customer Amazon.com Inc.

The factory has an annual capacity of 150,000 vehicles and Rivian has said it intends to increase that to 200,000 by 2023 as it adds new vehicles.

Rivian, whose other plant near Atlanta is set to open in 2024, will eventually build 400,000 vehicles a year and also make battery cells.


Slow transition to electric fells BMW’s CEO after just one term

                MUNICH: When BMW AG picked Harald Krueger to run the company more than four years ago, he was the perfect candidate.

Young, with a personable manner and decades of experience across the company, Krueger appeared ready to guide the venerable luxury carmaker into a future of electric, self-driving and shared automobiles.

But last Friday - two weeks before his contract came up for renewal - Krueger quit. Instead of leading the company through the biggest upheaval in a generation, he was felled by the transition as he failed to provide a roadmap to the future.

In his farewell note, he cited the “enormous exertion” demanded of BMW employees as the company grapples with the unprecedented demands of the shift.

In the past few years, the industry “has been shaped by enormous changes, which have brought about more transformation than in the previous 30 years,” Krueger said in the note.

Krueger, 53, inherited a company at the top of its game. Under the previous CEO - now chairman - Norbert Reithofer, BMW had outsold Mercedes-Benz and Audi for a decade.

The company was a pioneer in electric vehicles with the i3 city car introduced in 2013. It was the first major automaker to use lightweight carbon fibre in mass-market models. And its traditional business of sumptuous-but-sporty sedans and SUVs was as robust as ever.

But soon after Krueger took over, sales of the i3 hit a wall, calling into question the electric push.

The plan to use carbon fibre turned out to be too costly. The strong-willed Reithofer never really exited the stage. The diesel crisis that shook rival Volkswagen AG sullied the reputation of the entire German car industry, and more recently the US-China trade spat has hit profits.

“The path BMW set out for Krueger wasn’t easy,” said Frank Biller, an analyst at Landesbank Baden-Wuerttemberg in Stuttgart. “BMW has traditionally picked executives with less emotional flair and more of a technical, engineering background. Car electrification is a very emotional topic.”

As Krueger puzzled over how to reinvent BMW for the electric age, it was almost a year before he presented his strategic vision — which was a bust.

He delayed BMW’s next major electric car, effectively squandering its leadership in the field. Key engineers quit to set up an electric-vehicle startup. And to help pay for the shift, Krueger doubled down on gas-guzzling, super-charged luxury cars such as the 8 Series sports car and full-size X7 SUV.

At Krueger’s first major public appearance, at the Frankfurt car show in September 2015, the CEO collapsed on stage minutes into a presentation. He blamed the episode on dehydration and too many hours flying, but it was an apt metaphor for his leadership, and the event haunted him with obvious discomfort speaking publicly in the months that followed.

Squandered lead

The company has since watched Daimler AG reclaim the luxury crown. Tesla Inc. has become the face of the electric-car revolution. And everyone from Ford Motor Co. to Ferrari NV is rushing to develop electric models, with scores of new offerings scheduled to hit the market in the next five years.

“BMW took its headstart in electric cars for granted and then failed to hit the accelerator again when needed,” said Christian Ludwig, an analyst at Bankhaus Lampe in Bielefeld, Germany.

Krueger’s departure serves as a warning to the new executives running at least a half-dozen of the industry’s top companies.

Electric vehicles offer nowhere near the same returns as combustion vehicles. And selling electrics remains a struggle without major incentives as consumers balk at patchy charging infrastructure, high prices and limited driving range.

Like Krueger, most of the new executives come from engineering backgrounds. But they’ll be required to master technology-driven trends such as ride-hailing, while contending with Silicon Valley giants like Tesla, which is aiming at BMW’s bread-and-butter 3 Series sedan and VW’s Golf with its Model 3, and Waymo, the self-driving unit of Alphabet Inc.

Profit warnings

At Daimler, new CEO Ola Kallenius, 50, issued the company’s third profit warning in a year, citing provisions to cover recalls of diesel cars that need upgrades to improve emission technology.

He took over from Dieter Zetsche in May. At Fiat Chrysler Automobiles NV, CEO Mike Manley failed in an attempted merger with Renault SA that would have delivered much-needed electric technology Fiat eschewed under Sergio Marchionne, the long-serving CEO who died last year.

Krueger’s likely successor, Oliver Zipse, 55, is another insider with a similar career path.

Like Krueger, Zipse worked at BMW’s MINI operations in England, and then served as global head of production. Zipse is a champion of BMW’s strategy of keeping factories as flexible as possible, making hybrid and electric models alongside combustion cars around the world.

That aligns him with Krueger, who in May defended his cautious approach on electric cars, saying no one knew how fast they’d take over or which technology might win out.

“We have taken numerous decisions that we are now bringing to the road,” Krueger said at a June presentation. “By 2021, we will have doubled our sales of electrified vehicles compared with 2019.”

READ MORE: BMW production chief Oliver Zipse frontrunner for CEO post


New Honda 4S centre in Kota Baru is biggest on east coast

                KOTA BARU: The biggest Honda 4S centre in the east coast of the peninsula has just opened here.

The 4S centre (Sales, Services, Spare Parts and Body and Paint) is operated by Ban Chu Bee Sdn Bhd, which has been selling Honda cars for over 30 years.

The centre, built at a cost of RM22mil, occupies 152,460 square feet of land with a total build-up area of 62,200 square feet. It has 20 service bays which includes five fast service, one tyre service, eight general repair and one air conditioning service.

Amenities provided are a customer lounge, an executive lounge, complimentary Wi-Fi services, a children's playpen and a surau.

"The 4S centre is able to cater for up to 100 vehicles a day or more than 22,000 service intakes a year,” said Honda Malaysia managing director and chief executive officer Katsuto Hayashi at the opening of the centre on Saturday.

“Last year, Honda Malaysia sold 91,830 cars and of this total, the East Coast region
contributed 8% with sales of more than 7,200 vehicles. Kelantan contributed 34.6%
towards this regional sales and the Jazz was the favourite among the customers here."

Also present were Honda Malaysia president/COO Roslan Abdullah, Ban Chu Bee chairman Chua Siew Eng and its managing director Lee Eng Kee.

The 4S centre is located at Lot 1349, Jalan Pasir Mas-Salor 15100 Kota Baru, Kelantan. Its contact numbers are 09-744 3337 / 09-744 5893.


Renault electrifies core line-up in hybrid push

                PARIS: Renault will introduce hybrid versions of its top-selling models, the French carmaker said on Monday, as the European auto industry races to meet tightening emissions goals.

Starting in 2020, the company will roll out a gasoline-electric hybrid Clio subcompact and rechargeable plug-in hybrid variants of its Captur mini-SUV and Megane hatchback.

“What you’re seeing now is the unfolding of electric cars at a speed that is going to vary from one company to another,” Carlos Ghosn, chief executive of the Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi alliance, said at an event on the eve of the Paris Motor Show.

Renault also confirmed the 2019 launch of a low-cost K-ZE electric model in China, produced in a Renault-Nissan joint venture unveiled last year with Dongfeng.

The French brand’s offering on the new shared electric-vehicle architecture will have a range of 250km, Renault said, without giving details of pricing.

However, Ghosn has previously discussed plans to “change the game” with a low-cost electric car priced below $8,000 after Chinese incentives - and ultimately without them.


New Lynk & Co hatchback prototype undergoes winter testing

The 03 Concept.
SHANGHAI: Chinese firm Lynk & Co first came to prominence when it unveiled its production 01 crossover at the end of 2016.

That model became the world's fastest-selling car when it went on sale in China last year. And now Lynk & Co could become a lot more famous outside its home market as a hatchback prototype has recently been seen undergoing winter testing.

The production 01 crossover wasn't the last vehicle the Chinese automaker revealed, as there have also been two further sedan concepts since then. It's perhaps a little surprising that the latest prototype spotted being road tested is a hatchback rather than a crossover, but the distinct headlight design suggests it couldn't really be anything other than a model from Lynk & Co.

That's because they have a unique, frog-like design that's very close to what we see with the 01 crossover, which consists of a bulbous upper lamp that sits on top of the front wings and another lamp lower down in the front fascia, that's probably connected to the grille.

It's also almost certain this new model from the Chinese automaker will be based on Volvo architecture, and more specifically the Chinese-owned company's Compact Modular Architecture (CMA). It's the same platform underpinning the latest Volvo XC40, which will also be the basis for the upcoming new S40, and therefore there's a good chance the Lynk & Co hatch will also make use of Volvo powertrains too.

Last year, the company announced it was planning to launch its first vehicle in the American market in 2019 in San Francisco. However, given recent hurdles regarding Chinese companies selling in the United States, it could be that Lynk & Co, with such strong links to Volvo, might look to launch a model in Europe first instead.


First BMW M3 wagon to make June 23 world premiere at Goodwood

                LONDON: All eyes will be on BMW M GmbH at the June 23-26 Goodwood Festival of Speed, as BMW’s legendary Motorsport division celebrates five decades of success.

Festivalgoers will witness the world premiere of the first-ever M3 Touring and the UK premiere of the new M4 CSL, as both take to the hill throughout the world-famous four-day event.

All this against the backdrop of a striking central feature sculpture on the lawn of Goodwood House, designed as a homage to 50 years of motorsport excellence as it showcases some of the most iconic models from M.

Elsewhere, visitors will be able to see – and in some cases, drive – the latest models from BMW’s range, including the new iX1, i7, i4 and iX M60.

For the first time in its history, the M range will be complemented by a M3 Touring which is a distillation of the technological prowess and know-how from the M3 and M4 family, combined with the practicality of a five-door touring model.

This latest M model will be unveiled at BMW M at Trackside on June 23, alongside a high-performance M3 Touring with Performance Parts, and can then be seen on the Hillclimb in the "First Glance" category every day of the festival.

The first M3 Touring has been whetting public appetite by setting a record for the fastest wagon at the Nürburgring Nordschleife last week. It beat the previous record holder, the Mercedes-AMG E63 S, by 10s with a notarised lap time of 7 minutes and 35.060 seconds.

The M3 Touring is likely to share the same twin-turbo 3.0-litre straight-six engine as the sedan, producing 503hp and 650Nm of torque. A manual transmission is unlikely to be offered.

Alongside the M3 Touring and M3 Touring MotoGP Safety Car on the hill will be the new M4 CSL, celebrating its UK premiere.

This ultimate, track-honed, two-seater coupe is defined by a 40hp power hike over the current M4 Competition Coupé to 550hp, while weight-saving measures – including the use of carbon-fibre for the roof, bonnet and boot lid – achieve a 100kg reduction in overall weight (in standard specification in the German market).

As a result, the new M4 CSL has recorded the best-ever lap-time for a BMW road car at the Nürburgring’s Nordschleife circuit.

With M GmbH as the honoured marque, the Central Feature in front of Goodwood House will present an eye-catching display of M cars past, present and future.

BMW UK will add its legendary 3.0 CSL to the Central Feature, while BMW Group Classic is providing three further examples: the M1 Procar from the late 1970s; a WTCC 3 Series E90; the Le Mans winning 1999 V12 LMR.

The display is completed by the BMW M LMDh racecar, that will debut next year.

Besides providing historic BMW M cars for the Central Feature, BMW Group Classic will bring four additional famous race cars to Goodwood’s Hillclimb. Pedro Piquet (BRA), son of three-time F1 World Champion Nelson Piquet, will drive the world’s first turbo-charged F1 World Champion car, the 1983 Brabham BMW BT52.


Shell offers discounts up to RM30 on engine oil

                KUALA LUMPUR: Shell is offering instant cash rebates, inclusive of GST, for the coming “Balik Kampung” holidays, allowing drivers to enjoy discounts up to RM30.

Shell’s special cash discount promotion is valid till the end of July and currently available at participating Shell stations, workshops and spare part shops nationwide (whilst stocks last).

The promotion helps drivers save RM20 for every purchase of a Shell Helix HX7 synthetic technology motor oil and RM30 for the fully synthetic Shell Helix Ultra with PurePlus Technology.

“We wanted to extend this opportunity for more Malaysian drivers to experience what a motor oil made from natural gas could do for a car engine. It cleanses your engine from the inside out.

“There is no better time to do it than in preparation for a safe drive back home this coming festive season,” said Shell Lubricants general manager (Malaysia and Singapore) Leslie Ng.

Shell PurePlus Technology is a revolutionary gas-to-liquid (GTL) process that converts natural gas into a crystal-clear base oil with virtually no impurities found in crude oil.

The base oil is produced at the Pearl GTL plant in Qatar via a partnership between Shell and Qatar Petroleum, and the world’s largest source of GTL products today.

For more information log on to www.shell.com.my/helixpromo.


Court orders release of woman in case involving deaths of eight teen cyclists

Sam leaving the court with her lawyer, Muhammad Faizal, after the magistrate ordered her release.
JOHOR BARU: The Magistrate's Court here has ordered the release of a 24-year-old woman whose car ploughed into a group of teenage cyclists, killing eight of them on Feb 18, 2017.

Magistrate Siti Hajar Ali ruled that the prosecution had failed to prove a prima facie against the accused, Sam Ke Ting, and her driving license that was suspended since she was charged along with RM10,000 bail to be returned immediately.

In her judgment, Siti Hajar said the prosecution failed to prove a case, as the investigation was incomplete and not comprehensive after reviewing statements from 46 witness.

"The accused could not be prosecuted based on the failure of the investigation officer to investigate the case properly.

"The accused had the rights to drive her car and had driven her vehicle within the speed limit, was not driving while using her phone, was not drunk and was using a car seat belt," she said.

She added that the victims, however, had created an unsafe condition for other road users by being at the location, on the left lane of the road.

"It is impossible for the accused to have predicted the whereabouts of the group of teenagers behind the road hill at 3am in the morning.

"The hilly road conditions had limit the line of sight of the road user," she said, adding that the group had gathered behind the hill to race on the road that had dim lighting.

She added that the victim had also made dangerous modifications on their bicycles by removing the brakes and lowering the seat at the same level as the handlebars.

"The victim had also failed to equip themselves with proper safety equipment such as a light reflection jacket and a bicycle helmet.

"The court also would like to take this opportunity to remind parents out there that they too could be charged under Section 53 of the Child's Act 2001 for neglecting their child," she said.

She added that the police could also take more stern action to eradicate these social issues by issuing summons to the perpetrator under Rule 42, traffic rule 166/59 of the Road Traffic Rules 1959.

"The police could also seize these bicycles under Section 112 of the Road and Transport Act 1987," she added.

The case was prosecuted by deputy public prosecutor Muhammad Syafiq Muhammad Ghazali, and the accused was represented by her lawyer, Muhammad Faizal Mokhtar.

On Feb 18,2017, eight teen cyclists were killed when a car driven by the accused plowed into a group of more than 30 youngsters, who were mostly riding modified bicycles commonly known as 'basikal lajak'.

The incident occurred at around 3.30am along Jalan Lingkaran Dalam near the Mahmoodiah Muslim cemetery.

Eight more cyclists were hospitalised after the incident.

On March 28 2017, Sam claimed trial to a charge of ramming into the group.

The charge is brought under Section 41(1) of the Road Transport Act 1987.

The charge under Section 41(1) of the Road Transport Act 1987 (Act 333), carries a maximum 10 years imprisonment and a fine of not more than RM20,000, on conviction.


German push to ban combustion-engine cars by 2030 wins support

                BERLIN: A proposal to stop sales of new combustion-engine cars by 2030 has gained cross-party support in Germany's Bundesrat, the country's upper house of parliament, Der Spiegel reported.

German lawmakers should urge their counterparts in Brussels to push incentives for only zero-emission vehicles to be registered by 2030, the weekly news magazine said, citing a decision taken in a Bundesrat meeting.

"If the Paris agreement to curb climate-warming emissions is to be taken seriously, no new combustion engine cars should be allowed on roads after 2030," it quoted Greens party lawmaker Oliver Krischer as saying.

A switch to sales of only zero-emission cars puts thousands of German auto industry jobs at risk since the powertrain of an electric car requires only a tenth of the staff to be assembled when compared with a combustion-engined equivalent, which needs more workers to assemble cylinders, spark plugs, and gearboxes.


India court orders old cars deregistered in smog-hit Delhi

                NEW DELHI: India's environment court Monday ordered all diesel vehicles older than 10 years be deregistered here, strengthening a ban on pollution-spewing cars partly blamed for the capital's toxic air, a lawyer said.

The National Green Tribunal directed Delhi's regional transport office to cancel registrations immediately, after police complained of struggling to force the affected cars off the roads.

"Without registration, these (vehicles) will not be able to ply at all. This is effective immediately," said lawyer Vardhaman Kaushik, who lodged the petition seeking the order.

The tribunal ordered the ban last year on diesel vehicles older than a decade to help bring down Delhi's dangerous smog levels, which the World Health Organisation (WHO) ranks as among the worst globally.

Traffic police say they have issued fines and impounded some 3,000 vehicles, but many reappear on the roads after owners pay the penalty or win court appeals to have their cars released.

Kaushik said Monday's order plugs these legal loopholes and comes after the Delhi and national governments were pressured to clean up the air which chokes the capital for months of the year.

The Delhi government has announced a string of measures including driving restrictions in January and in April that took around a million cars off the roads for two weeks.

India's top court has also ordered a "pollution toll" on thousands of diesel-guzzling trucks that enter the capital every night, as well as a ban on large, new diesel cars.

But with nearly 10 million vehicles on Delhi's roads, campaigners say much more needs to be done.

A WHO study of 3,000 cities released in May placed Delhi in 11th position based on annual average concentration of PM2.5 particles.

These particles, less than 2.5 micrometres in diameter, are linked to higher rates of chronic bronchitis, lung cancer and heart disease as they settle deep in the lungs and can pass into the bloodstream.


Toyota Corolla Cross gets GR Sport treatment in Taiwan

                PETALING JAYA: It's no secret that Toyota has intentions to "sportify" every model it sells.

It has already done so with the Yaris, Prius, Fortuner, Hilux and even the MPVs it offers in Japan.

The latest addition to the growing list of Gazoo Racing model is the Corolla Cross SUV.

The performance variant of the Corolla Cross, known as Corolla Cross GR Sport, has just gone on sale in Taiwan. It's the second GR Sport model for Taiwan, with the Corolla Altis GR Sport already on sale since its debut there in 2020.

Toyota offers three levels of performance in the GR class. It starts with the base GR Sport, then the GR, followed by the GRMN for the most extreme cars.

Most of the changes to the standard Corolla Cross are purely cosmetic with minimal hardware upgrades. Toyota did say the steering and suspension have been sharpened for a slightly sportier feel. The chassis is also made more rigid with a reinforcement bracket from Toyota Gazoo Racing.

Front bumper and grille are revised, complemented by larger air intakes with built-in fog lights and skid plate. Sides have silver sill add-ons. The rear is embellished with a more prominent skid plate and a GR badge.

The 9-inch infotainment touchscreen in the cabin is refreshed with new graphics, and GR touches are found on the start/stop button and on the seats. Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 and seven airbags are standard safety kit.

The Corolla Cross GR Sport is sold in Taiwan in two versions: with a 1.8-litre NA petrol (138hp/172Nm) and as a hybrid that uses a 1.8-litre petrol mill paired with an electric motor (122hp).

Both versions are front-wheel drive and power is relayed to the front axle via CVT that are calibrated differently for each.

The NA and hybrid are selling in Taiwan for around US$31,600 (RM132,000) and US$34,100 (RM142,000) respectively.

Toyota will introduce the GR Sport variant to other countries in stages, with Malaysia possibly being one of them. But UMW Toyota is keeping mum for now. If it does make its way to Malaysia, it will keep the Vios GR Sport company.

It took a while for the standard Corolla Cross to arrive in Japan but it finally did so in a launch on Tuesday, with petrol and hybrid variants introduced. The hybrid is also offered in 4-wheel drive form in its home market. The Japan-spec Corolla Cross has a different face from those sold internationally.

The Corolla Cross made its world premiere in July 2020 in Thailand.


These are the 18 toll plazas you can't pay cash from June 1

                KUALA LUMPUR: Full electronic toll collections will be implemented at 18 toll plazas for six highways from June 1 at noon.

Malaysian Association of Highway Concession Companies deputy president Sazally Saidi said the implementation was in line with the Government’s aspiration to boost toll collection efficiency.

"Highway users must use Touch 'n Go or SmartTAG to pay their tolls.

"Highway operators will ensure facilities for the sale of Touch 'n Go cards and top ups are available in 24-hour lanes and personnel will be stationed to help consumers to smoothen toll operations at all plazas," he said in a statement today.

The 18 toll plazas for the six affected highways are Bagan Ajam Toll Plaza, Perai Toll Plaza and Sg Nyior Toll Plaza on the Butterworth Outer Ring Road (BORR); Mines Toll Plaza and Loke Yew Toll Plaza on the Sungai Besi Expressway (Besraya); and Ayer Hitam Toll Plaza, Saujana Putra Toll Plaza, Teluk Panglima Garang Toll Plaza and Pulau Indah Toll Plaza on the South Klang Valley Expressway (SKVE).

In addition, Bukit Raja Toll Plaza, Kapar Toll Plaza, Moc A Toll Plaza and Kapar Moc B Toll Plaza on the the New North Klang Straits Bypass Expressway (NNKSB); PB2X Toll Plaza on the Sultan Abdul Halim Mua'dzam Shah Bridge (JSAHMS) and the Sungai Ramal Toll Plaza, Bukit Kajang Toll Plaza, Sungai Long Toll Plaza and Sungai Balak Toll Plaza on the Kajang Dispersal Link Expressway (SILK).

For more information, the public is advised to contact the following hotlines: BORR 04-3299999, Besraya 1800 88 0999, SKVE 1300 88 0026, NNKSB 03-33420564, JSAHMS 1300 30 2828 and SILK 03-89210123.


Bentley issues Mulsanne Speed 'Blue Train'

                LONDON: Bentley Motors is coming out with a limited edition Mulsanne Speed "Blue Train" to celebrate the historic "Blue Train" race won by the Bentley Speed Six in 1930.

Debuting this week at the Techno-Classica show in Essen, Germany, just four examples will be hand-crafted in Crewe for customers in continental Europe.

Each car features a number of historical references and modern interpretations of  design details from the original Speed Six.

 The dashboard fascia features veneer image of the original Bentley 'Blue Train' Speed Six.

For example, the fluting pattern in the door panels and the rear quarter inserts echo the interior of Barnato’s original car. The dashboard fascia features veneer image of the original Bentley "Blue Train" Speed Six. Meanwhile, the treadplate plaques bear the wording "Blue Train 85 Years" and the front grille features a square mesh design inspired by the original Speed Six.

The first "Blue Train" Limited Edition delivered will also feature a personalised hamper, trimmed with Burnt Oak and Camel hide to match the interior of the car. The hamper contains Robbe & Berking silver plated cutlery, Haviland Limoges porcelain crockery, LINLEY crystal champagne flutes and Angora picnic rug, woven in Scotland.

“The Blue Train is one of the most famous and celebrated cars in the world, and it embodies the racing spirit of the Bentley," said Bentley Heritage Collection head Richard Charlesworth.

The Mulsanne Speed Blue Train by Mulliner can be seen at the Techno-Classica Show from April 15-19.