Full drive report on Jaguar F-PACE in Montenegro - VIDEOS

 It all started with a ferry ride .

How's this for making an entrance? There they were – a bevy of blue and white Jags lined up aboard the ferry at Lepetane and ready for the drive-off after the Verige strait crossing. The setting made quite an impression on everyone.

And so did Montenegro with its rugged beauty and stunning mountain and valley views. It’s a place few Asians have heard of, and fewer still have visited. Most tourists are from Russia, Serbia, Turkey and Ukraine. It’s well worth a trip there if you are a sucker for exotic experiences and wild vistas that stretch for miles around. And no visa required for added convenience.

If you plan to go, drive as we did, to see more of the country from the coastline to the mountainous interior.You will come away awed by the natural magnificence and storied past of this small Balkan nation that was formerly part of Yugoslavia before the break-up. There’s no direct flight from Malaysia. We flew into Heathrow and jetted out the next day from Farnborough airport near London to Tivat in Montenegro. Less than an hour after clearing Tivat airport, we were sitting in the F-PACE SUV and ready for the journey of discovery.

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On the sample list were the First Edition, S and diesel R-Sport. Jaguar sought to put its best foot forward by offering the First Edition in the drive. It’s basically the 3.0-litre supercharged petrol S but with a whole list of items thrown in that would otherwise be cost options at the showrooms. Only 2,000 units would be available globally. All, including the 2.0-litre diesel R-Sport, were all-wheel drive and mated to an 8-speed ZF automatic transmission.

Depending on markets, other powertrain options includes 2.0L diesel manual RWD/AWD; 2.0L petrol automatic RWD; 3.0L diesel automatic AWD; as well as 3.0-litre petrol automatic AWD with a detuned output of 335hp.

The F-PACE went through arguably its most important acid test in Montenegro, with a gaggle of motoring boys from around the world pushing Jaguar’s first SUV hard and fast across variable terrain that would qualify as perfect for the job. The media feedback, in the end, were largely positive to Jaguar’s delight (and relief, we imagine).

Outside
The car maker from Coventry has laboured to create an SUV that still looks and behaves like a Jaguar. On top of giving buyers the high-riding position they desired, the F-PACE manages to look assertive and athletic in build.

Jaguar bills the F-PACE as a performance crossover with everyday versatility. The large front grille and the long muscular bonnet hint at the performance potential of engines like the 375hp supercharged V6 found in the S and First Edition. Elements such as slender full-LED headlights, forged 22-inch wheels and short front overhang carry the design vision of the C-X17 concept through to production. A long rear overhang coupled with a long wheelbase and a slim greenhouse result in skewed proportions that suggest a sense of speed even when the car is at standstill.

While the F-PACE is guilty of basing some styling cues from the F-TYPE, most of it – Jaguar says 81% - of the parts are designed from the ground up for the F-PACE. As a result, the wheelbase, front and rear track are all its own.

It has a high shoulder line and swept-back roofline to imitate a coupe.Powerful rear haunches, fender vents and distinctive tail light graphics spark comparisons with the F-TYPE. A sculpted body sitting on big wheels,from 18-inch to 22-inch,project a purposeful stance.

Like the XE and XF, the F-PACE uses a monocoque that’s made up of 80% aluminium. One-third of the bodyweight comes from recycled aluminium to bolster its green credentials, and the aim is to have 75% of the body in this form simply because recycled aluminium requires 95% less energy to produce, leading to much lower production costs.The suspension set-up is also the same with the two sedans - double-wishbone in front and multi-link in the rear.

Inside
When Jaguar talked about versatility, it was a reference to the interior space which is plenty for five people to get comfy in, with doors that swing wide open for easy entry and exit. Knee room and headroom are fine with elbow room being noteworthy because of the SUV’s width.
For tall passengers in the rear, the headroom is a tad tight but if the car is specified with reclining rear seats, that should fix it and step up comfort somewhat. Unfortunately, the rakish rear windscreen leads to a constipated back view. The F-PACE out-paces rivals in boot space with 650l on offer and can be enlarged to 1,740l with rear seats flattened. A powered tailgate, a low loading height and a flat floor make boot access even more convenient.

Lined in leather, the dashboard looks premium and clutter-free, anchored by an impressive 10-2-inch infotainment touchscreen that’s crisp and blazingly fast as it uses a quad-core processor, ultra-fast Ethernet link and solid-state drive. We had recently driven the entry level XE and the fascia resemblance is all too familiar.

Unless you are one of the lucky few in the world to get the First Edition, there’s a whole lot of options to tick before you could make the interior, and the exterior, stand out. And the options package gets pricey quickly if you go overboard. Jaguar charges extra for such things as 4-zone climate control, 10.2-inch infotainment screen aka InControl Touch Pro (an 8-inch less powerful screen is standard otherwise), adjustable ambient lighting, surround camera system, gesture tailgate and Adaptive Surface Response. The InControl Touch Pro pack also includes a 12.3-inch HD virtual instrument cluster that could be set to navigation mode ala Audi TT-style. The alternative is to curb that itch by keeping the car stock and save a bundle for more important things in life.

An interesting bit of kit is the Activity Key, an optional accessory targeted at the active types. You know, people who like to go surfing, mountain biking or parachuting. It’s a wearable wrist band that functions as a key so the F-PACE owner can leave the main key in the car. All the band user needs to do to lock or unlock the car is to place the rubberised band on the “J” in Jaguar on the rear tailgate.

We reckoned the two-tier buttons on the driver-side door would need getting used to. Our fingers kept going to the lower tier buttons when trying to open windows but they are for seat memory and central locking.

The 3.0-litre supercharged V6 petrol engine in the First Edition.

Drive impressions
We started out with the First Edition followed by the diesel variant then the S. All test cars came with the InControl Touch Pro Pack and adaptive dampers.

Draped in exclusive Caesium Blue paintwork, the First Edition builds on the S and embellishes it with, among others, 22-inch wheels, a laser head-up display, 17-speaker Meridian sound system, houndstooth-patterned leather seats and matching door inserts as well as reclining rear seats.

While the F-PACE rivals are the Audi Q5, Lexus NX, BMW X3, Mercedes-Benz GLC, Volvo XC60 and Land Rover Discovery Sport, Jaguar claims it’s really the Porsche Macan that the F-PACE is gunning for. Such focus made its engineers work hard to realise an SUV with a sporty road-driving bias whilst trying to avoid stepping on the toes of Land Rover.

Pound for pound, the over 1.8-tonne F-PACE is bigger than the Macan yet lighter because of its aluminium make-up.

 The InControl Touch Pro offers a bigger centre screen and a virtual meter cluster.

The intelligent all-wheel drive system in the F-PACE is rear-wheel-biased to cut down on understeer. In most cases, 90% of power ends up on the rear axle. But the front axle could just as easily get 90% power depending on the situation at play.

The driver sits low and snug while still enjoying good forward visibility. The SUV offers a great ride quality and the cabin is an oasis of calm on the main roads that we traversed. The ride is firm by default but not to the point of being jarring even when running on 22-inch wheels. For the best balance of comfort, aesthetics and handling, the 20-inch alloys would do nicely.

The few offroad exercises that Jaguar organised such as sliding down the side of a dam, fording through a waterlogged obstacle course as well as trudging through hilly and rocky terrain showed the F-PACE has some offroading skills though serious Camel Trophy manoeuvres are best left in Land Rover hands. The offroading stuff is more of a marketing point for Jaguar as we will bet most F-PACE owners will never drive their cars beyond the tarmac – not intentionally anyway.

 Dam slow. Showing off the hill descent control feature on the side of the Slansko Dam.

The supercharged V6 petrol engine in the First Edition/S is swiped from the F-TYPE, producing 375hp at 6,500rpm and 450Nm of torque at 4,500rpm. It’s a smoothie that starts with a low growl as it begins pulling revs and turns into a bellow as you gun it higher to its sweet spot. The exhaust note isn’t as noisome or aggressive as in the F-TYPE but entertaining all the same. At times like this, it’s almost like you are driving a sports car rather than a raised 4WD vehicle. It’s a strange feeling still. Jaguar claims the accelerative force of the V6 will place it at 100kph in 5.5s. You might cross the line in 6s but that’s okay; it’s still fast for a mid-size SUV.

The SUV also borrows F-TYPE-derived chassis technologies such as torque vectoring, adaptive dynamics and configurable dynamics to offer a tuneable driving experience. Coupled with a rigid and lightened body, the SUV can turn on a dime, feeling grippy and composed in most situations with body roll well reined in. The 8-speed gearbox works smoothly and precisely and there’s no hunting for gears during spirited driving. So it was with great confidence – or was it bravado? – that we powered the S down the famous 25 hairpins on Mt Lovcen as we hurried to catch the flight home on the last day in Montenegro. Those narrow two-way roads are amazing – you drive with minimal room for error as there's  a high mountain wall on one side and a steep drop on the other. But the view from up there is incomparable and unforgettable.

 Count the Lovcen hairpins.

Speaking of the diesel F-PACE, its 178hp and 430Nm of torque make it no slouch in the go department. The smaller engine displacement means less weight in front, resulting in a drive that’s more sprightly and more responsive to steering inputs. The diesel rattle from the new Ingenium engine has been dialled down at idle and isn’t noticeable once the car is moving at highway speeds, thanks in part to the well insulated cabin. For extended offroad escapades, the diesel SUV is the better pick for the job with peak torque available from low down to tackle slippery trails and major undulations.

In short ...
Jaguar says 90% of the F-PACE buyers are expected to be new conquests and 10 years younger with one in three buyers being a woman. There’s a lot riding on the F-PACE. After hours driving it over two days, we do think it has the flair to help Jaguar get to where it wants to go.

The F-PACE should show up locally by the end of this year. And you can be sure an F-Type powertrain will be rumbling inside.

 That's the luxurious Aman Sveti Stefan resort in the background, where the media members stayed overnight. It's located on an islet linked by a causeway. It was formerly a fishing village.OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA


Renault to revive bestselling cars with electric makeover, say sources

                PARIS: Renault’s new boss Luca de Meo will revive some best-selling models from the 1960s to 90s era as electric cars under a turnaround plan aimed at improving sales and repositioning the struggling automaker, two sources familiar with the matter said.

De Meo is due to unveil his strategy update on Jan 14, which is expected to focus on the product ranges the company will bet on - including a nod to Renault’s past.

The loss-making French firm has already announced 2 billion euros in cost savings and job cuts in its bid to improve margins and boost the group’s performance in an auto market hit hard by the Covid-19 pandemic and under pressure to produce cleaner vehicles.

De Meo, who has said he wanted to lean on the brand’s French roots, will unveil an electric version of the now-phased-out small 4L cars introduced in the early 1960s, the two sources said.

There will also be a revived, electric version of another popular 1970s and 1980s model, based on the R5 or its successor the “Super Cinq”, the sources added.

Renault declined to comment.

“Luca de Meo is very focused on the products, and his strategy plan will be too,” one of the sources said.

Among other Renault brands, the group will also present three new electric models for the Alpine sportscar label, the sources added.

One of Renault’s challenges will be to create distinct identities for each of the brands, which also include Dacia and Lada.

The company has already flagged that it wants to focus on a smaller number of ranges and hone in on profitable products, as well as potentially exiting some markets, reversing the global push based on volumes under former boss Carlos Ghosn.

Sources had previously said that well-known but ailing models like the Espace minivans could be among those that are now phased out.


Confirmed — Proton car prices to go up from Feb 15

                SUBANG JAYA: Prices of all Proton models will be increased from Feb 15, with the quantum ranging from RM312 to RM2,021.

Proton said in a statement that the increase was necessary because of a devalued Ringgit as a number of raw materials were bought in foreign currency.

To cushion the impact, the national car maker has also cut operational costs and streamlined operations.

Late last year, Proton had put the public on notice that it would raise prices if it could not absorb costs any longer.

For the Chinese New Year period, Proton is having a festive promotion. New car buyers could secure loans with an interest rate of 2.8%. There is also a rebate of up to RM6,200 on selected 2015 cars and 30% discount on merchandise. Under a loyalty reward scheme valid until March 31, a rebate of up to RM3,000 is given to all Proton owners who wish to replace or buy another Proton vehicle.

The car maker is also wooing graduates with a scheme that allows them to make monthly instalments from as low as RM258. It is also offering a free 30-point inspection to Proton owners at all authorised service centres during the festive period.


Powerful photo set in Mojave Desert named winner of NatGeo's annual photo contest

                WASHINGTON, D.C.: A striking aerial shot of a single plane facing off against thousands of recalled Volkswagen and Audi cars sitting idle in the Mojave Desert following the Volkswagen emissions scandal has been named the grand-prize winner of the 2018 National Geographic Photo Contest.

Photographer Jassen Todorov's photo entitled "Unreal" was selected from nearly 10,000 entries for its composition and its powerful message.

"By capturing scenes like this one, I hope we will all become more conscious and more caring for our beautiful planet," he said in a statement.

The winning image captures the cars manufactured from 2009 to 2015 which subverted emissions tests. Following the scandal, Volkswagen recalled millions of cars and had to open 37 storage facilities throughout the US to store the cars.

Todorov, a concert violinist by trade and flight instructor in the US, shot the overhead photos while flying a small 1976 Piper Warrior over the California desert. He won the US$5,000 jackpot and his winning image will be featured on the @NatGeo Instagram account.

Contestants submitted photos in three categories: people, places and wildlife.

In the wildlife category, a dramatic photo of wildebeests crossing the Mara River in Tanzania took first place, while a portrait of a photographer in Kenya, put out of work by the advent of smartphones, took the top prize. Todorov's photo won best photo for the places category.


Hyundai to unveil concept for hydrogen-powered fuel cell electric truck

                ATLANTA: Hyundai Motor Company (HMC) revealed today the first rendering images of its concept for a hydrogen-powered fuel cell electric truck, HDC-6 NEPTUNE.

HMC will debut its latest commercial truck concept during this year’s North American Commercial Vehicle Show in Atlanta.

Supporting the company’s vision for a zero carbon emission fuel cell truck, Hyundai’s name for its concept HDC-6 NEPTUNE, recognizes the Roman god of the seas, Neptune, symbolizing the hydrogen powered natural elements of the sea – the largest potential source of hydrogen fuel on Earth.

“We have cemented the fuel cell technology leadership positon in the passenger vehicle sector with the world’s first commercially produced fuel cell EV and the second generation fuel cell EV, the NEXO,” commented Edward Lee, Head of Commercial Vehicle Business Division at Hyundai Motor Company. “With the introduction of HDC-6 NEPTUNE, in addition to the road proven Xcient fuel cell truck, we expand our technology leadership into the commercial vehicle sector by unveiling our vision of how fuel cell electric trucks can resolve the environmental equations of widely used commercial vehicles and our commitment to create a decarbonized society.”

In addition to HDC-6 NEPTUNE’s unique construction, fuel cell system and advanced in-cab technology, its modern design draws inspiration from the streamliner railway trainsets of the 1930s with its Art Deco function-driven style.

Similarly, the HDC-6 NEPTUNE design team found new ways to combine both form and function to create an entirely unique new solution within the commercial vehicle industry.

Hyundai’s commercial offerings include trucks from Class 2 to Class 8 and buses which are manufactured in three international plants and currently sold in 130 countries around the world since 1970s.


2016 Beijing Auto Show: new Lexus IS debuts

                BEIJING: Lexus has taken the covers off the new IS, armed with a fresh new look and a few changes at the Beijing Auto Show 2016.

The entire front fascia of the new model has undergone a transformation, highlighted by new headlamps, large air intakes in the front bumper and an evolution of Lexus’ spindle grille.

The new grille folds back at a higher point, changing its top and bottom proportions that enhance its sporty feel.

The F SPORT’s grille features an exclusive 3-dimentional F-mesh pattern, with jet-black metallic coating that incorporates functional brake ducts.

Adding to the IS’s dynamic flair are standard 10-spoke 17-inch wheels.

Into the new IS’s cabin, the multimedia display screen has grown from 7 inches to 10.3 inches.

Also, “Enter” buttons have been added to the sides of the Remote Touch Interface (RTI) on the center console, making the system easier to use.

The rear-wheel-drive IS 200t will be powered by the recently-added 2.0-liter twin-scroll turbocharged inline-4 with intercooler, which comes mated to a 8-speed automatic transmission.

This engine, first introduced on the NX crossover vehicle, features Variable Valve Timing-intelligent Wide (VVT-iW) that allows the engine to switch between Otto and Atkinson cycles by varying the intake-valve opening angles, and the D-4ST direct injection system.

Power is rated at 241hp at 5,800rpm or torque of 350Nm at 1,650 to 4,400rpm.

The new IS’s safety equipment has been upgraded with the Lexus Safety System +.

It combines Pre-Collision System, Lane Departure Alert (LDA) with Steering Assist, Automatic High Beam (AHB) and Radar Cruise Control.


JPJ estimates RM30mil lost to car cloning syndicates

                KOTA BARU: The Road Transport Department (JPJ) has lost RM30mill to car cloning syndicates, estimating that 2,000 cloned cars had been brought in from a neighbouring country.

Department Director General Datuk Seri Ismail Ahmad said that apart from the loss of revenue to the country, buyers of these cars do not have insurance coverage and are endangering other road users.

"This year alone, a total of 371 cloned cars had been confiscated and two people had been arrested in Kuala Lumpur," he told reporters at a Appreciation ceremony for special operations personnel of JPJ here on Monday.

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He added that Terengganu registered the highest number of cloned cars with 166, out of which 88 were the Honda Jazz model

Ismail added that the operations to weed out the syndicate through the Vehicle Entry Permit (VEP) system will be introduced next year whereby foreign cars exceeding five years could be traced if taxes had not been paid.

"JPJ and the Royal Customs and Excise systems would be streamlined by April next year and cloned cars could be detected.," he said.
Ismail also appealed to those who bought cloned cars to surrender it to JPJ as they can be fined up to RM10,000 for possession of forged JPJ documents.


Nikola founder quits as chairman amid allegations, SEC probe

Milton speaking at a presentation of its new full-electric and hydrogen fuel-cell battery trucks in partnership with CNH Industrial, at an event in Turin, Italy, last December. — Reuters
SAN FRANCISCO: Nikola Corp., the embattled electric-vehicle startup that recently partnered with General Motors Co., said its founder stepped down as executive chairman effective immediately, removing a target of critics but clouding Nikola’s future direction.

Trevor Milton, the social-media-savvy public face of the company he founded in 2014, was replaced by board member Stephen Girsky, whose title will be chairman, the company said in a statement late Sunday.

The shakeup comes less than two weeks after the Phoenix-based company found itself in the crosshairs of a sceptical short seller that issued a highly critical report and whose claims are the subject of probes by the US Securities and Exchange Commission and, reportedly, the Department of Justice.

The company has faced a turbulent period in the aftermath of a short-lived share rally following GM’s surprise decision earlier this month to take a US$2 billion stake in Nikola and manufacture its new pickup truck.

The Detroit-based automaker got a cash-free 11% equity position in its smaller partner in a bid to scale and fast-track its own vehicle electrification efforts.


DBKL to use bio-fuel for all its diesel vehicles

                KUALA LUMPUR: Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) will be using the B10 bio-diesel for all its diesel vehicles starting today.

Federal Territories Minister Khalid Abdul Samad said some 813 vehicles would be using the B10 bio-diesel, which is a blend of 10% palm methyl ester and 90% petroleum.

“The use of the B10 diesel is in line with DBKL’s wish to achieve the goal of a ‘low carbon city’ by reducing the emission of black fumes from vehicles exhaust and to increase the air quality in Kuala Lumpur city,” he said at the launch in Menara DBKL.

Khalid said DBKL and the Malaysian Palm Oil Board had previously collaborated on a study in 2014 to test the B10 bio-diesel with 50 DBKL vehicles.

Khalid also announced that DBKL would be taking over operations of the GoKL buses from the Transport Ministry starting next year.

Starting Feb 1, 2019, he said a possible new bus route could be opened either between Universiti LRT station-People’s Housing Project (PPR) Sri Pantai or Tun Razak Terminal-Mindef.

Also present at the event were Primary Industries Minister Teresa Kok and Kuala Lumpur mayor Datuk Nor Hisham Ahmad Dahlan.


Tesla aims to calm fears over Model 3 production

                SAN FRANCISCO: A day after launching one of its cars into space, Tesla moved Wednesday to ease concerns on earth over production delays for its Model 3, the key to future growth for the star electric carmaker.

In its quarterly earnings update, the carmaker led by entrepreneur Elon Musk said it is moving ahead towards its goal of producing 5,000 Model 3 vehicles per week by the end of the second quarter.

In a letter to shareholders, Musk said it has been difficult to get accurate forecasts for the car, a more affordable model for the automaker known for expensive vehicles.

"What we can say with confidence is that we are taking many actions to systematically address bottlenecks... and these actions should result in our production rate significantly increasing during the rest of Q1 and through Q2."

Tesla reported a record loss for the quarter of US$675 million on revenues of US$3.3 billion.

But Tesla shares rose 1.7 percent in after-hours trade, on the upbeat assessment of production efforts.

In the quarter, Tesla delivered 29,967 vehicles including 1,542 Model 3 vehicles.

The Model 3, priced starting at US$35,000, is key to Tesla's effort to becoming a mass producer and reshaping the automotive market. Its other cars sell for around twice that price.

On Tuesday, Musk's other major company SpaceX launched a Tesla Roadster into space aboard a Falcon Heavy rocket.

At Tesla, Musk has announced plans for an electric semi-truck, boosted production of batteries for its electric cars and for other uses and has expanded its network of charging stations.

It is also planning an autonomous coast-to-coast drive to "showcase a major leap forward for our self-driving technology," according to Musk.

The California-based company last month announced an unusual executive compensation plan that would enable Musk to be paid only if Tesla hits certain milestones.

Compensation for Musk, 46, will be based on a new 10-year performance stock award that could give him billions worth of company shares, or nothing at all if the company fails to meet its targets.


Will 2019 Goodwood Festival of Speed set a new record?

                LONDON: This 2019 edition of the Festival of Speed, which brings together some of racing history's most illustrious machines for a yearly celebration of speed, will be taking place at England's Goodwood Estate from today to Sunday. More than ever, the track's record will be challenged under the unequivocal theme of this year's event: "Speed Kings."

The festival's organisers hope to gather a collection of cars that are fast enough to beat the record of the famous hill-climbing race established at Goodwood over 20 years ago by a McLaren-Mercedes MP4/13.

Over the four days of the event, race cars both antique and high-tech, supercars and concepts of all kinds will be tearing up the pavement one by one, with the fastest cars competing against one another on the Sunday. The circuit's record, which is still held by the McLaren-Mercedes MP4/13, was almost beat in 2018 by the all-electric Volkswagen I.D. R Pikes Peak.

This year, a special tribute will be paid to Sir Jackie Stewart on the occasion of the 50th anniversary of his first Formula 1 World Champion win, but also his 80th birthday.

This electric atmosphere will be the perfect setting for the grand unveiling of number of models, such as a 1005-electric Ford Mustang (in a special edition of 499 units produced by British outfit Charge), which will start at £300,000 (RM1.6mil).

Elsewhere, a mysterious, ultra high-performance Ford GT is slated to be announced during the festival. Lexus will also take the opportunity to unveil its series LC Cabriolet, the offspring of the namesake concept car it showed off early this year, while Honda will be exposing an almost-there prototype of its first 100% electric urban car. Last but not least, Toyota will be presenting its GR Supra GT4 concept alongside the TS050, which was the big winner at the 24 Hours of Le Mans. The GR Supra GT4 will go into production and start selling in 2020.

This edition will also be marked by a number of firsts, such as The Arena, a space dedicated to extreme demonstrations, with daredevils doing their thing on two and four wheels. There will also be a space dedicated to e-sports.

The festival coverage would be streamed live on its YouTube channel.


LG and Magna in JV to expand e-powertrain component market

                SEOUL: LG Electronics and Magna International Inc have announced a joint venture (JV) to make e-motors, inverters, and on-board chargers and, for certain automakers, related e-drive systems to support the growing global shift towards vehicle electrification.

The new company, tentatively called LG Magna e-Powertrain, marries Magna’s strength in electric powertrain systems and world class automotive manufacturing with LG’s expertise in component development for e-motors and inverters, accelerating both partners’ growth in the electric powertrain market.

The JV enables the two companies to continue to grow their electric powertrain product offerings by leveraging existing technologies, engineering capabilities and global footprints.

The market for e-motors, inverters and electric drive systems is expected to have significant growth between now and 2030, and the JV will target this fast-growing glob-al market with a world-class portfolio.

LG has established experience in the development of electric vehicle components most notably for the Chevrolet Bolt EV and Jaguar I-PACE.

LG will help accelerate Magna’s time to market and scale of manufacturing for electrification components, while soft-ware and systems integration are competencies that Magna brings to this venture.

This JV will allow customers to select from a portfolio of reliable components through to integration of an entire electrified powertrain.

The JV will include more than 1,000 employees located at LG locations in the United States, South Korea, and China.

The transaction is expected to close in July 2021, subject to a number of conditions including obtaining LG shareholder approval and all necessary regulatory approvals.


Cycle & Carriage ends 'exceptional year' with blockbuster movie treat

                KUALA LUMPUR: In line with its commitment to create ‘Exceptional Journeys,’ Cycle & Carriage celebrated its top customers by treating them to a movie night screening the newly released movie Avatar: The Way of Water.

 Influencers Sheng Yi Koh and Tzia at the Mercedes-Benz tunnel in Aurum Theatre.

Held at Getha Lux Suites in Aurum Theatre, the Gardens, the guests enjoyed a luxurious movie experience.

 Stephen Tan.

Cycle & Carriage general manager, head of marketing, Stephen Tan said "Exceptional Journeys" was a reflection of the Mercedes-Benz dealer's commitment to creating the best experiences for its customers, employees and the surrounding community.

 Megan Tan.

"Today, we wanted to express our thanks to all our partners for being part of our journey and contributing to its successes.

"It is truly with the support of our community that we are able to stand stronger today, allowing the brand to celebrate a century-long exceptional journey in its own right," Tan said.

 Cik Manggis.

He also said the company would continue serving its customers and remain committed to creating the best of luxury car services for Malaysians moving into 2023.

 Cycle & Carriage partnered local comic writer, Ernest Ng, to launch its new comic titled “Exceptional Journeys” to bring out the brand’s long history since 1899.

The event saw customers, influencers and brand partners like Cik Manggis, Megan Tan, Sheng Yi Koh, Tzia, and Fuad of Kyoto Protocol joining in the movie gathering as part of the brand’s appreciation and celebration of the end of an exceptional year.


Australia uses new technology to catch drivers on phones

                SYDNEY: An Australian state is attempting to persuade people to put down their smartphones while driving by rolling out cameras to prosecute distracted motorists.

New South Wales Roads Minister Andrew Constance said that Australia's most populous state is the first jurisdiction in the world to use such technology to punish drivers distracted by social media, text messages or phone calls.

Road safety experts are alarmed at the growing prevalence of accidents involving drivers using smartphones on New South Wales roads. Experts say drivers who illegally use phones increase their chances of an accident four-fold.

"There is no doubt drink-driving as far as I'm concerned is on a par with mobile phone use, and that's why we want everyone to be aware that you're going to get busted doing this anytime, anywhere," Constance told Australian Broadcasting Corp.

The government intends to roll out 45 Mobile Phone Detection Cameras across the state by December, he said.

In fact, each unit contains two cameras. One camera photographs a car's registration plate and a second high-set lens looks down through the windscreen and can see what drivers are doing with their hands.

The units use artificial intelligence to exclude drivers who are not touching their phones. Photos that show suspected illegal behavior are referred for verification by human eyes before an infringement notice is sent to the vehicle's registered owner along with a US$232 (RM965) fine. Some cameras will be permanently fixed on roadsides and others will be placed on trailers and moved around the state.

A six-month trial of two fixed cameras this year checked 8.5 million vehicles and detected more than 100,000 drivers with their hands on phones, including one driver who was using a phone and iPad simultaneously. Another driver had a passenger steer while they both held phones, the government said.

The government wants to expand the programme to 135 million checks a year by 2023. New South Wales has 5.2 million registered vehicles.

National Roads and Motorists' Association spokesman Peter Khoury, a leading advocate for road users, accused the government of using stealth to crack down on illegal phone use. While the association supported tougher action against drivers distracted by phones, it wanted signs warning motorists that phone detection cameras were operating in an area, as happens with speed cameras in the state.

Government modeling found that the phone detection cameras could prevent 100 fatal and serious injuries over five years.

The annual state road toll in New South Wales fell by 35 deaths to 354 last year.

Police said more than 16,500 drivers had been fined for illegally using phones so far this year.

Drivers are allowed to use phones in hands-free cradles and through Bluetooth. But it is illegal to touch a phone while driving except to pass it to a passenger. The ban even applies to drivers who are stationary at red lights or stuck in traffic jams.

Constance said his government was relaxing the law to allow drivers to legally pay with their phones at restaurant drive-throughs. — AP


2019 Bentley Continental GT: CarSifu drives it in Gold Coast

                THE Bentley Continental GT took our breath away six years ago in Singapore in the Continental GT Speed, as we discovered then how nimble and agile a two-tonne Grand Tourer could be when push comes to shove.

Our paths crossed again recently when we were invited to the Gold Coast, Australia, to have a drive impression of the third-generation Continental GT on winding back roads where it again revealed its surefooted dynamics.

The trip was organised as part of the Asia-Pacific introduction of the new Continental GT in Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Taiwan and throughout South-East Asia.

Before we get to the exciting part, let’s get better acquainted with what the latest version of this top-end GT from Bentley is all about.

To the layman, perhaps the most striking note about the latest Continental GT has to be its four “crystal” eyes and to a lesser extent, its simpler manifestation in the rear lights combo.

This design approach was inspired by the “cut-crystal of the finest glassware” as its structure serves well in refracting the light beam in the headlamp to the desired effect to make night driving safe and pleasurable.

While it might initially appear somewhat flashy for such an elite and elegant sports car, the crystal effect of the headlamps certainly engages the beholder the more one looks at it.

By contrast, the oval rear lamps came across as a little too simple but the clever way in which the indicator lights are combined in each light assembly adds new allure.

The indicator light is activated inside the multi-lamp unit, giving it a rather novel approach apart from providing a cleaner body profile without little details being accommodated here and there.

This rear light design is complemented by the two exhaust tailpipes, one to each end of the car, which has the chrome units styled in a similar oval, though somewhat flattish, outline.

When the Bentley designers got down to work on this third-generation Continental GT five years ago, they had to come up with a fresh look without foregoing three key styling details that underscore its character and lineage.

These are the sharp power line that flows from the front wheels, the all too distinct muscular haunch that forms the rear shoulders and the sloping roofline that adds to its swift aerodynamics; its aerodynamic co-efficient is 0.29 and that’s pretty good.

Helping that is the “interplay” between smooth and curvaceous body lines and very sharp edges that underline Bentley’s new “fuselage surfacing philosophy”, which surprisingly is not a novel concept.

This styling approach was first adopted in the 1934 Spartan Executive aircraft and Bentley followed up on it with a new twist to achieve a “graceful and powerful” form.

A significant technical change is in moving the front wheels 135mm forward to have a more balanced front-rear weight distribution and give it a more athletic stance and dynamics.

Practical visual effects are the shorter front overhang and longer bonnet that help contribute to its graceful muscularity and enhances its sporting potential as a top-end GT car.

In that respect, the engineers have achieved their goal; the new Continental GT does draw strong appeal with its re-energised profile without losing its distinct heritage.

Add to that the all-aluminium exterior panels crafted with Bentley’s Super Plastic forming technology, making the body the largest Super Formed panel in the automotive industry.

And the fascination continues into the 2+2 interior that reflects in Bentley’ words “inherent beauty of perfect geometric patterns and the use of accents of colour prevalent throughout high fashion and in the work of tailors of Savile Row”.

What is immediate to the eye are the new diamond-in-diamond quilting technique applied to the doors and seats, the centrepiece but optional Bentley Rotating Display on the centre dash area, the new optional patterned finish to the centre console that is taken from Swiss watchmaking and the 12-colour customisable mood lighting (to be enjoyed during night driving of course).

What would all this automotive finery be without the “oomph!”that comes from the power unit in front — the 6.0-litre twin-turbocharged 12-cylinder W12 TSI.

To establish this powerful fact, Bentley adds the number “12” to a dedicated position on the front wheel arch, which is sometimes accompanied by the British flag located higher up to establish its roots.

The W12 engine has been updated since the Continental GT Speed and is slightly smaller in actual displacement of 5,950cc from 5,998cc previously.

Output is up though with maximum power now at 635PS (improved by 10PS) and torque increased by 100Nm to 900Nm.

With a Continental GT that is almost 70kg lighter than before, you could imagine the better power-to-weight ratio that this third-generation GT provides.

That translates to faster acceleration; Bentley says the new Continental GT accelerates from the lights to 100kph in 3.7 seconds, making it half a second faster than the previous model, and has a slightly higher top speed of 333kph (330kph previously).

The proof of the pudding is in the eating although the drive impression this time was in more sober surroundings than the extreme drive we enjoyed in Singapore six years ago.

Being a public road drive in convoy fashion, and in a country where police monitoring is actively conducted, we settled down to enjoying the luxurious fittings that such a top premium GT car would provide.

We hardly heard the engine for the kind of legal speeds we had to observe, except for a quick take-off from the lights by the lead car that revealed the loud vibrant exhaust note as it sprinted away over a short distance.

Our first leg was to Byron’s Bay to the south of the Gold Coast that had winding roads quite similar to that leading to Fraser’s Hill.

There are three drive modes — Comfort, Bentley and Sport — for the air suspension that uses new three-chamber air springs to achieve a more comfortable ride.

By the way, the new Continental GT is now an all-wheel drive and not permanent four-wheel drive and engine output is varied between front and rear.

Through the tight twisties we were comfortable using Sport mode as we could relate immediately to how the front wheels were pointing and the engine management system made sure the engine was in high torque range to give us that road grip.

Doing the same in Bentley mode made the steering feel a bit vague and there was less engine push to give us the confidence to drive faster through the corners.

And the new Continental GT continued to impress with its level-headed poise when pushed through corners, especially for a car of its size.

Apparently, it is said the Bentley made one a good driver with its positive dynamic adjustments through winding roads and it’s true up to a point.

With the eight-speed dual clutch automatic transmission, it wasn’t surprising to see the engine turning below 1,000rpm while cruising in urban areas and on highways (the second leg). The downshifts were so smoothly executed they were only noted when the tachometer needle rose above 1,000rpm.

For a definitive Grand Tourer that fetches above RM2mil in Malaysia, the latest Continental GT is undeniably a welcome addition to the garage for the well-heeled.


Hit the highways before 9am, PLUS tells road users

                PETALING JAYA: Road users travelling via the North-South Expressway towards the Klang Valley are advised to enter the highways before 9am between Feb 4 and Feb 6, says PLUS Malaysia Bhd (PLUS).

In a statement on Feb 4, it said an increasing traffic trend was recorded on the second day of Chinese New Year (Feb 2) when the North-South Expressway saw a surge in traffic from all states.

A similar traffic pattern was expected to be repeated tomorrow and Sunday as those taking extended days off along with the school holidays would begin their journey back to the Klang Valley.

PLUS chief operating officer Datuk Zakaria Ahmad Zabidi advised the public to plan their journey home according to their released return to Klang Valley Travel Time Advisory.

"We have made the necessary preparations to ensure highway customers enjoy a comfortable return journey to the city.

"Among these are the deployment of additional PLUSRonda teams to assist those who may encounter problems with their vehicles," he said.

Zakaria also advised users to ensure their Touch n’ Go cards or ewallets for RFID transactions had sufficient balance for a smooth journey especially at toll plazas.

"Users are also urged to utilise existing travel applications to pre-emptively plan your routes as a means to avoid congestion along the highway," he added.

Users can get the latest highway updates or traffic situations through PLUS Malaysia’s app, social media channels or their website at www.plus.com.my


Austria’s car industry at the crossroads as world swings to electrification

                VIENNA: The captains of Austria’s automotive industry need to stop making combustion engines now in order to salvage greener electric growth by the end of the decade, according to a new government study.

Carmakers employ almost 9% of the Austrian workforce, and the number of people on auto manufacturing payrolls has risen by more than half in the last two decades.

Dozens of suppliers churn out engines and parts for companies including BMW AG, Fiat Chrysler Automobiles NV and Volkswagen AG.

But the Alpine nation’s love affair with the internal combustion engine needs to end now if Austrians want to carve out a place in emerging international supply chains for electric vehicles, according to the report commissioned by the ministry in charge of energy and transportation.

“Many companies underestimate the urgency to switch,” researchers at Fraunhofer Austria wrote. “Companies are hesitant to make strategic decisions in the direction of electro-mobility and are thus faced with the risk of not mastering the changeover in time.”

Employment engine

Austrian companies and consumers have been bombarded with mixed messages over the shift to electric vehicles.

Some of the country’s most-influential industrialists have come out against the technological shift.

A government study last year suggested electric vehicles could wipe out 7% of the 370,000 direct and indirect jobs currently tied to making autos.

This week’s report tried to steer back some of those earlier assumptions, by suggesting Austria’s economy is poised for a net gain of some 8,000 jobs by the end of the decade if manufacturers start moving toward electrification.

The value of the sector’s output, much of which is currently exported to Germany, could increase by about €645 million (RM3.2bil) annually, according to the study.

“There is no alternative to e-mobility and those who don’t change to the technology now risk massive losses or getting wiped out of the market entirely,” said Fraunhofer’s Wilfried Sihn.


NVIDIA introduces new autonomous vehicle self-localisation system

                LAS VEGAS: NVIDIA introduced Drive Localization this week, a system that can be used by an autonomous vehicle to "pinpoint its location within centimetres so it can understand its surroundings and establish a sense of the road and lane structures."

When road markings are not clear, this system helps cars understand what exactly is happening on the road so that they can respond and react accordingly.

Drive Localization is powered by the NVIDIA Drive Xavier System-on-chip, a processor specially designed for autonomous vehicle driving that can perform 30 trillion operations per second. Instead of relying on Lidar technology, Xavier uses various sensors on the vehicle (cameras, satellites, speedometers, for example) to collect the information needed to determine a vehicle's precise location and orientation.

This process supports NVIDIA's goal of creating a system that reaches Level 2+ autonomy, a development which NVIDIA calls Drive AutoPilot. Level 2 autonomy means that a vehicle system is capable of steering, accelerating, and deceleration while a human driver monitors the vehicle's movement for safety. NVIDIA has allegedly accomplished this and a little extra.

The Xavier processor, in addition to determining vehicle location up to the centimetre, is also the brain behind merging, lane changing, and even driver monitoring. Tesla's Autopilot has several of the same capabilities, placing it also between Levels 2 and 3 of autonomous driving.

The system is expected to be used in commercial vehicles starting in 2020.


Korea EV supercharging maker Chaevi opens US office, expands in Japan

                SEOUL: Chaevi, a South Korean maker of supercharging stations for electric cars, is planning on building out an ultra-fast network in the US and partnering with automakers in Japan as consumers around the world embrace cleaner passenger transport.

After installing some 26,000 EV chargers at home since the company was established in 2016, Chaevi has opened an office in Silicon Valley and is considering a US manufacturing base, chief marketing officer Young Min Kim said.

While that would mean going up against supercharging incumbents Tesla Inc., EVgo Inc. and Electrify America LLC, the recently passed Inflation Reduction Act is pushing Chaevi to consider investments in North America.

The act, which seeks to reduce reliance on China and encourage automakers around the world to produce more cars in the US, may also provide for subsidies for EV charging makers.

Japan, where electric vehicle penetration is still low, is another market where Chaevi sees big growth, Kim said. There are plans to open a Tokyo office, he added, without elaborating.

This willingness to look outside of Korea may be driven by the Asia nation’s stringent rules around EV chargers, Lee Chang-hee, an analyst at Samsung Securities Co., said.

"Korea has strong regulations for EV chargers, such as limiting the number installed at a parking lot,” Lee said. "So some Korean charger makers are seeking overseas expansion.”

Others are getting in on the act, too.

SK Group, which controls EV battery maker SK On Co., is a backer of US electric charging solutions provider Atom Power Inc. while Hyundai Motor Co. has struck a partnership with Lotte Group under which the retail giant will provide real estate for Hyundai’s charging stations.

Although the number of charging points per electric car in Korea is high, consumers still feel they’re lacking, with many sites far from residential areas or constantly broken, according to an October report from state-run Korea Development Institute.

Chaevi forecasts Korea will need around 210,000 slow chargers and 24,000 fast ones by the end of next year to support its goal of reaching half a million EV charging points across the country by 2025. There were around 149,000 fast and slower charging sites as at the end of August, government data show.

China, the world’s biggest market for electric cars, doesn’t appeal however, Kim said.

The political risks are offputting and the market is already crowded, he said. China has about 346,950 fast chargers installed, compared to 29,541 in Europe and 23,159 in the US, according to BloombergNEF.


Porsche4Kids looking to help keep children occupied

STUTTGART: Porsche is looking to help families with children stay occupied with its "Porsche4Kids" activities especially since the Movement Control Order - Phase 4 (MCO-4) has been extended to May 12 with certain conditions.

To help children past the time while at home,  the German sports car builder is many games and activities waiting for young visitors at its www.porsche4kids.com website.

The site offers children colouring pages, craft ideas with instructions, "find the word" and memory games, puzzles and search-and-find pictures among others - all while being entertained by mascots Tom Targa and Tina Turbo (available in both German and English).

Porsche 4Kids is trying to create a unique online experience for play with high learning standards for children who can train their concentration and learn by playing too.

Those looking to spend their time offline can download and print out a variety of images for colouring from Porsche tractors and Formula E racing cars, comics or games such as the “Town, City, Porsche” category game – templates are available to download for all children.

“We want to give children access to the mobility of today and tomorrow as well as to socially relevant topics such as sustainability and safety in road traffic. We want to motivate the kids to explore, discover, laugh and have fun,” said Porsche brand partnership and sponsoring head Oliver Eidam.

For children ages 12 and above who enjoy learning quizzes can take part in the Porsche Museum e-mobility challenge to learn more about electromobility, for example how an electric motor works, where electrical energy is stored and if electricity only comes from a socket.

In the "Socialize" section, kids are able to enjoy a virtual tour of the museum.

With the Kids Driving School magazine, parents can practise correct road traffic behaviour with their children while Tom Targa and Tina Turbo take a playful approach to explain traffic rules, the most important road signs and correct bicycle equipment.

A small final test for children to take is available on the back pages of the magazine - no boredom guaranteed.

Porsche 4Kids fits perfectly with the motto for the present time #DreamsAreMadeAtHome.

With this hashtag, Porsche has launched a global social media campaign for brand communication where users are invited to post their dreams of mobility here which could be their own car, a model car or a coloured picture of a Porsche downloaded from the website.

“Our learning programmes could up until now only be experienced in the exhibition, but the new children’s website now allows us to make them available to everyone online,” said Porsche heritage and Porsche museum head Achim Stejskal.

READ MORE: Nissan, Isuzu and Audi also do it for the kids


Night driving specs? Why you should never drive with amber glasses

                BERLIN: Yellow-tinted glasses, sometimes called night driving glasses, are a big no for drivers, say road safety experts.

These glasses are often explicitly advertised as a kind of sunglasses for night driving. Apparently designed to help you see better in the dark, the amber colour is said to reduce the glare of oncoming cars, so manufacturers say.

But the fact is they will only worsen your sensitivity to the glare of headlights, and will likely also make your vision worse at dusk.

Therefore, road safety experts such as the German car club ADAC say these glasses are "definitely not suitable" for road traffic.


2016 Paris Motor Show: Mercedes pledges to go electric by 2019 with Generation EQ

                PARIS: Mercedes-Benz has officially taken the wraps off the vehicle that will officially take the plug-in electric motoring fight to Tesla.

And while the Generation EQ is “just” a concept at this year's Paris Motor Show, it will be hitting real-world roads within the next three years and will offer owners a 310-mile range - that's 500km - between charges, when it does.

"The electric drive is the future. That's why we're investing massively in a battery-electric fleet and in battery technology - including as an energy store for private and industrial use. With EQ, we're going a step further. Under this brand, we're bundling our entire know-how regarding intelligent electric mobility from Mercedes‑Benz," said Ola Källenius, Member of the Board of Management of Daimler AG with responsibility for Mercedes‑Benz Cars Sales.

Power for the first EQ-badged car comes from two electric motors, one housed in each axle for a combined output of 400hp. And while the car looks similar to existing Mercedes SUVs from a distance, on closer inspection the exterior treatments and surfacing are very different in order to make the car as slippery as possible in order to minimise air resistance.

All of which means that the car will go further than a current generation Tesla Model X but not as far as Volkswagen's proposed EV the I.D., also revealed Thursday here. It will cover up to 600km on a charge, but only when it goes into production in 2020.

However, the new Renault Zoe, which goes on sale early next year and was one of the star cars on Renault's stand, will offer a 400km range on a single charge now. That's a 160-km increase on the current model - which shares its underpinnings and drive train tech with the Nissan Leaf - and it will cost less than a well-specified Mercedes A Class too.

Therefore, as well as going the distance, the Generation EQ will have to deliver something much more so that it truly is an object of plug-in automotive desire. But the company has three years to achieve this.

As well as showcasing what it believes is the future of mainstream, albeit premium mainstream motoring, Mercedes also confirmed that it's developing a hybrid hypercar with its performance partner, AMG, that will adopt the same technology that has seen it win the 2014 and 2015 Formula 1 drivers' and constructors' championships.

"Under the lead of Mercedes-AMG, our performance companies will join forces and create the most efficient and, at the same time, most dynamic and most spectacular AMG of all time -- some might even call it a hyper car. It will show how we will take our performance brand into the future with extremely efficient and intelligent drivetrain technology," said Prof Dr Thomas Weber, Member of the Board of Management of Daimler AG for Group Research and Mercedes-Benz Cars Development.

What's more, this car will be a production reality within the next two years, meaning that it will be going on sale at exactly the same time as Aston Martin's own F1 imbibed hypercar, the AM RB001, currently in development in partnership with Red Bull Racing.

READ MORE: Japan developing 'mirrorless' cars The Generation EQ comes with mirrorless wing mirrors using cameras to see better.


Hamilton calls for more women in 'dude' dominated paddock

Hamilton talking to Alonso during a press conference in Melbourne today. — Reuters
MELBOURNE: There are "too many dudes" in the paddock at Formula One races and the series needs to improve access for women, Mercedes driver Lewis Hamilton said today.

In the lead-up to Sunday's Australian Grand Prix, the three-times champion Briton, and other leading drivers, were asked for their wish-lists for the championship and Hamilton had little hesitation championing a more inclusive track-side environment.

"A Miami race and more ladies in the paddock," the 32-year-old said at the pre-race media conference. "More access for the women, there's too many dudes in the paddock." Hamilton was more for turning back the clock when it came to the series' power units, however, agreeing with Red Bull driver Daniel Ricciardo's wish for no more "electric engines" in Formula One.

The current generation of quieter and more fuel-efficient V6 turbo hybrid power units, while technologically impressive, have failed to win over some fans who miss the noisier V8 engines.

Hamilton was less sold on McLaren driver Fernando Alonso's ironic suggestion that teams be given "equal engines".

 Formula One promotional girls on stilts waving chequered flags before the first race of the season. — Reuters

The 35-year-old Alonso was frustrated with the poor performance of the Honda-powered McLaren cars during winter testing, having already endured two bleak seasons since returning to the team in 2015.

"I don't agree with that one," Hamilton said of Alonso's wish. "Not electric and not Honda," he quipped, drawing a murmur from reporters.

Most Formula One fans will wish for a more competitive series this year after Mercedes swept the drivers' and constructors' championships for the last three seasons running.

The only serious on-track rivalry has been between Hamilton and his now-retired team mate Nico Rosberg.

Hamilton won 10 of 21 races last season, including the last four in succession, but was still runner-up behind German champion Rosberg, who has been replaced by former Williams driver Valtteri Bottas.

A raft of technical changes, including fatter tyres and aerodynamic enhancements, have raised hopes rivals can bridge the gap with the Silver Arrows.

Bookmakers are less convinced, with many installing Hamilton as unbackable favourite to win a fourth world title and also the race at Albert Park on Sunday.

Hamilton has deflected the hype onto Ferrari, which had fast lap times and impressive reliability during winter testing.

He said he would relish a title fight from Ferrari's four-times world champion Sebastian Vettel this season.

"It's interesting to see, Sebastian is usually a lot more hype," Hamilton said, eliciting a half-smile from the German sitting a metre away from him at the media conference.

"I can tell he's trying to keep a lid on it.

"More teams and more drivers up the front fighting for wins, that's what racing is all about. I'm hoping that's the case."


Ducati DesertX: Best of two worlds

                THERE has been so much hype on the Ducati DesertX.

Most of the reviews from around the world have given thumbs up to DesertX.

Before I get into the performance of the bike, let’s have a look at the design.

The DesertX has a strong influence from Cagiva Elefant especially the front body, twin circular LED headlamps along with the tall (non-adjustable) windscreen and the fuel tank.

The clean, modern design reflects the smart combo of the retro and the present look. Meanwhile, the rear part of the bike is clean and simple.

The rear is fitted with an oval LED taillight.

The lines on the bike are clean flowing freely from rear to front without any obstruction projecting the sportiness and ruggedness of the Italian stallion.

The DesertX is fitted with a slim 21-litre metal tank, able to give an estimated range of 400km.

The design of the slim tank allowed my knee to hug the tank at ease while standing on the footpegs.

Hence I was able to manoeuvre the bike on the offroad terrain without any restrictions.

The DesertX comes with 21-inch front and 18-inch rear wheel sizes.

The large wheels clearly showed that this bike is designed for off-road with highway touring capability.

Hence, the riding position has been thought through carefully, ensuring standing on the pegs during the off-road is comfortable and not forgetting the long rides on highways.

The 937cc engine produces a claimed 110hp at 9,250rpm and torque of 92Nm at 6,400rpm.

The desmo valve check intervals are 29,000km apart, with 24,000km maintenance intervals.

The DesertX is powered by a liquid-cooled Testastretta engine that is also used in the Ducati Monster and Ducati Multistrada V2.

I was able to familiarise myself with the rider interface for the ride modes, ABS, traction control, and many others in less than 10 minutes.

Getting into the settings and changing them according to my needs were simple and fast.

The rider’s aide on this machine will not disappoint anybody.

The bike comes with six riding modes of Sport, Touring, Urban, Wet, Enduro and Rally complemented by presets for three levels of Engine Brake Control (EBC) and eight levels of Ducati Traction Control (DTC).

There are also the Ducati Wheelie Control (DWC), Cornering ABS and four power settings of Full, High, Medium and Low; along with the ability to set throttle response to Dynamic or Smooth.

I really liked the new 5-inch TFT colour display, which is in a vertical position (rare to find on present bikes) which makes it easier for me to read the map or any other information while standing on the pegs. A brilliant idea.

I took this bike onto a less challenging off-road terrain in Sepang and I had fun.

The weight distribution on this bike is spot on.

For the first time in my life, the bike was airborne after I prepped myself for a jump.

I was about more than a metre off the ground and landed well.

My landing was cushioned well by the KYB forks and shocks.

The long travel at 230mm from the forks and 220mm travel from the rear ensured a pleasant thump on my tailbone and a light impact on my shoulders when I landed.

During the off-road ride, I went through trails filled with rocks, pebbles and lumps of hardened mud.

I did not find it very difficult to manoeuvre through these obstacles and the bike gave me the confidence to try out more difficult terrain.

The DesertX is definitely in a class of its own where its agility and handling ensured the rider enjoyed every minute of his ride.

On the highway, the DesertX doesn't feel pressured when I was pushing the bike hard.

I rode the bike through the twisties of Frasers Hill and highways along the way.

On the highways, the power was instantaneous at every acceleration.

I did not have to grab the clutch lever, rather a light squeeze was good enough.

The power distribution is linear and the sweet spot is at 6,200rpm where I could feel the torque and power gradually giving me the acceleration needed on the highway.

This is when I felt like I was riding a Ducati, the brand well-known for speed.

The character of the 937cc L-twin on the DesertX is similar to that in the Multistrada V2 and the Monster but it is tuned differently making it easier to handle.

The windshield was definitely a big help in ensuring my head didn’t bob aimlessly at high-speed or the incoming air beat down my chest.

I wished the windshield was adjustable while keeping the design especially when one wants to enjoy the cool breeze hitting on the face.

Meanwhile, the front brake is the twin 320mm discs with Brembo callipers and the rear is the 265mm disc.

The brakes offer stopping power that met my high expectation, be it on highways or off-road.

While riding up to Frasers Hill, the bike did well in all types of twisties and corners.

I was able to flick the DesertX at all corners easily as the bike leans in effortlessly.

What is even more amazing is, the bike engages with the twisties at Frasers like it had a 19-inch rather than a 21-inch front wheel.

The long-travel suspension of this bike meant for off-road did not pose any inconvenience to me at all.

The agility of the machine made my riding on the highland memorable.

I have ridden many bikes to Frasers Hill but very few come close to how this bike has performed. Simply amazing.

The DesertX's versatility is unquestionable.

I am very sure the design of this machine would have been a great challenge to the engineers, who had to ensure that the DesertX's off-road and highway performance had to be top of the class.

This RM112,900 DesertX delivers the best of both worlds without a shadow of a doubt.

SPECIFICATIONSDucati DesertXEngine: 937cc, V-twin, DOHC, water-cooled
Maximum power: 110hp at 9,250rpm
Maximum torque: 92Nm at 6,400rpm
Transmission: Six-speed
Suspension: Front 46mm USD Kayaba forks; rear Kayaba monoshock
Brakes: Front two Brembo M50 calipers, 2X320mm discs; rear Brembo 2-pot caliper, 265mm disc
Features: Wheelie control, engine brake control, cornering ABS, cornering traction control, six riding modes
Fuel capacity: 21 Litres
Wet weight: 226kg
Price: RM112,900 (without registration, road tax and insurance)


Porsche’s Mission R Concept drops big hint about its electric future

                MUNICH: Powered by a single 80-kilowatt-hour battery located in the centre of the vehicle, Porsche’s new Mission R concept car is neither approved for FIA racing nor street legal.

But it offers a tantalising peek at the marque’s electric ambitions.

"It’s an idea of how customer motorsport could be in the future,” says Holger Eckhardt, spokesman for customer motorsports, during a private video call with reporters in advance of the car’s debut on Monday at the IAA Mobility car show here.

Eckhardt says the two-door, single-seat coupe could be made by 2025 or 2026 to compete in cup races like the Porsche Carrera Cup, a one-make series of private racing events that owners enter to test their track-suited cars against each other.

Since the late 1990s when it first started making "cup cars,” the German auto manufacturer has sold 4,250 Carrera Cup racing vehicles.

Such cars are highly tuned for searing on-track performance and stripped of weighty non-essentials like radios, carpeting, and even extra seats.

Race car of the future

From the outside, the Mission R looks like the futuristic spawn of a Porsche Cayman and a Lotus Evora.

It has a low, flattened roofline, 18-inch racing wheels, and a high racing spoiler on its rear.

Four-point high-intensity LEDs-left totally uncovered by any glass shield-comprise its unique headlights, while a red lightband is the main tail light.

It’s able to race, hypothetically, for 30 to 40 minutes and up to speeds approaching 320kph all on one charge, and can be charged again to 80% capacity in 15 minutes using special Porsche chargers.

Inside, the Mission R incorporates multiple novel inventions aimed to help its driver achieve superior times on the track.

It comes with a helmet holder and dryer built into where the passenger seat goes, which also disinfects the protective gear.

It sports dual cameras inside the cabin that show the driver from different angles for adoring fans (and that all-important Instagram or Twitch post).

A single air vent lodged in the ceiling blows cold air directly at the driver’s face.

Elsewhere, the door panels are made from flax-composite natural fibres that are a sustainable alternative to carbon fiber and offer a smaller CO2 footprint, Porsche engineers say.

The car also has a carbon-fibre roll cage integrated directly into the roof, which helps the car save weight and maintain a low roofline but is as yet non-compliant for FIA racing. Porsche brass seem unconcerned.

"We will try to convince the FIA,” Eckhardt says. "It’s an idea. Clearly, there are some details of this Mission R which are not usable at the moment in motorsport.”

A building block

The announcement came as electric ambitions continue to accelerate at Porsche, the most vital brand for parent company Volkswagen AG’s shift to electric vehicles.

VW has been public about its aggressive plan to remove Tesla Inc. from the electric vehicle throne by 2023; along with Audi, Porsche has made the strongest moves in that direction.

In July, Porsche formed an alliance with the Croatian tech company Rimac automobili. The deal stipulates that Rimac holds 55% of a new Bugatti-Rimac venture, while Porsche owns the remaining 45%. Earlier this year, Porsche had also separately increased its stake in Rimac to 24%.

Rimac didn’t contribute to the development of the Mission R but could contribute to future elements of the vehicle, Eckhardt says.

Porsche’s current electric program bodes well for future products. Its four-door electric Taycan beat sales of the extremely profitable Porsche 911 in some markets.

In the first half of 2021, Porsche delivered 5,367 Taycan models in the US, compared with 5,108 911s delivered.

Globally, Porsche delivered 19,822 Taycans and 20,611 911s over the same time period. Meanwhile, further hybrid and electric variants are planned.

"Porsche will be a key competitor to Tesla in 2022, with a longer-term aim to fully electrify its entire range by 2030 (bar the 911),” Bloomberg Intelligence automotive analyst Michael Dean wrote in his August market report.

"Porsche has already raised the tech bar in terms of battery-charge time and reproducible power on the Taycan, and has luxury Ebitda margins approaching 30%, almost 50% higher than Tesla in 2022.”

Matthias Scholz, Porsche’s director of GT race cars, declined to confirm whether the Mission R would be produced as a road-going, higher-volume production vehicle in the future.

But as the company develops cars like the 718 Cayman, it’s natural for some overlap to occur, he says.

Another Porsche spokesman, Frank Weismann, confirmed via email that "technical details (of the Mission R) will be tested and shown in corresponding prototypes in a timely manner.”

If the racing version of such a car were made, pricing would fall somewhere in between the cost of other cup cars ranging from €150,000 to €1 million (between RM739,000 and RM4.9mil), Scholz says.


Range Rover Velar achieves 5-star Euro NCAP safety rating

                LONDON: The Range Rover Velar has achieved a five-star Euro NCAP rating, confirming one of the world's most desirable luxury SUVs as among the safest too.

The fourth member of the Range Rover family scored 93% for adult occupant protection, 85% for child occupant protection and 74% for pedestrian protection.

Velar features a comprehensive suite of safety systems, including Autonomous Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection. The advanced technology can detect a collision risk with cars or pedestrians in the road ahead and automatically apply the brakes. The system was awarded a maximum six marks in the Pedestrian detection tests by Euro NCAP’s testers.

By combining strong crash protection with advanced active safety systems, the Velar helps drivers to avoid accidents while providing excellent security to mitigate the effects of a collision if the worst does happen.

Euro NCAP’s findings state: “Tests of the autonomous emergency braking system at highway speeds demonstrated good performance, with collisions avoided or mitigated in all tests. In both the side barrier test and the more severe side pole impact, protection of all critical body areas was good and the Range Rover Velar scored maximum points.”

The Velar secured an overall Euro NCAP rating of 84%.


RM2.1mil Ferrari SF90 Spider debuts in Malaysia

                KUALA LUMPUR:  The spider version of the Ferrari SF90 Stradale has arrived in Malaysia.

The SF90 Spider is available from the base price of RM 2,088,000 (before duties, customization options, taxes and insurance).

Ferrari’s first retractable hard top hybrid was unveiled to Malaysians in a digital debut.

As the Prancing Horse’s first production plug-in hybrid spider, the SF90 Spider sets new performance and innovation benchmarks not only for the marque’s range, but for the entire sports car sector.

The new convertible has the same supercar specification and record-breaking performance as the SF90 Stradale yet also adds greater driving pleasure and versatility to the mix, thanks to latest iteration of Ferrari’s signature retractable hard top architecture.

The SF90 Spider is aimed at people who demand the best of Ferrari technology, but still want the thrill of open-top driving.

Ferrari said it chose to use a retractable hard top (RHT) rather than a soft top because it guarantees optimal noise insulation and protection from the elements when raised, does not deform at high speeds and provides exceptional occupant space and comfort. The RHT is also compact, simple and light and  can be opened or closed in 14 seconds and can be deployed when the car is on the move.

The key to the success of the Ferrari RHT, which premiered on the 458 Spider in 2011, and which has been constantly evolved in the intervening years, is that it takes up 100 litres of space rather than the 150-200 litres required by a traditional system. The use of aluminium in its construction also means that it is around 40 kg lighter than a conventional retractable hard top. Ferrari said an adjustable electric rear window ensures occupant comfort even at high speeds when the RHT is lowered.

As is the case with the SF90 Stradale, the SF90 Spider is available with an additional specification option for owners who want to use it more as a track car.

The Assetto Fiorano pack includes a list of upgrades that set it apart from the standard car, such as Multimatic shock absorbers derived from the Ferrari’s GT racing experience and optimised for track use. Others include the adoption of high-performance materials (such as carbon-fibre and titanium) that have shaved 21 kg off the car’s weight, a carbon-fibre rear spoiler and road-homologated Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tyres made to improve track performance in the dry, thanks to a softer compound and fewer grooves. Lastly, the Assetto Fiorano offers an optional two-tone livery for a motorsport feel.

Performance plug-in hybrid

In a first for a Ferrari production spider, the SF90 Spider has plug-in hybrid architecture in which the internal combustion engine is integrated with two electric motors at the front, which comprise the RAC-e (Cornering Angle Regulator, Electric) system, and one at the rear derived from and named after a Prancing Horse Formula 1 innovation, the MGUK (Motor Generator Unit, Kinetic). The synergy between the internal combustion engine and the electric motors allow the car to unleash a maximum of 986hp and put the SF90 Spider not only at the very top of the Ferrari range of road cars, but also its category.

The SF90 Spider’s powertrain architecture features the V8 turbo ICE, an 8-speed DCT with E-diff, the RAC-e electric front axle with two independent electric motors that also provide all-electric propulsion, the MGUK electric motor located at the rear between the engine and the gearbox, the high voltage battery and electric motor control system (inverter).

In addition to 769hp (and 192hp/l specific power output), the V8 also makes 59hp more than any other V8 turbo ever built by Ferrari. To acieve this result, Ferrari’s engineers completely redesigned the intake and exhaust systems. To improve internal fluid dynamics, the ducts are now all horizontally lined up at engine head height, the turbo charger assembly has been lowered, and the exhaust line is higher. This rationalisation also produced both a lower centre of gravity and a reduction in overall weight thanks to the use of Inconel instead of steel for the exhaust manifold.

The SF90 Spider sports the completely redesigned 8-speed, oil-bath, dual-clutch gearbox launched on the SF90 Stradale. An optimised layout, achieved through the adoption of a dry sump and a significantly more compact clutch assembly with a 20% smaller exterior diameter than the one in the 7-speed gearbox, has shaved 15 mm off the installed height in the car. This, in turn, lowers the centre of gravity of the running gear by the same amount.

Despite the addition of an eighth gear and the need to transmit a maximum torque of 900 Nm (an increase of more than 20% on the current 7-speed), the gearbox’s overall weight is actually 10 kg lower than its predecessor. The clutch’s performance is 35% higher than the 7-speed, transmitting up to 1,200 Nm in dynamic torque during gear shifts. Thanks to new-generation actuation hydraulics, clutch fill times are now 30% faster and total gear shift times have been slashed to 200 ms, an improvement of 30% on the previous 7-speed DTC.

Exhaust sound quality was also increased with the use of a "hot tube system", which transfers sound more directly to the cockpit, producing fuller, richer harmonics across the entire frequency range, improving both in-car sound quality and intensity as rev rise compared to previous Ferrari V8s.

Because of the key role hybrid system power management plays in the SF90 Spider driving experience, the traditional Manettino is now flanked by an additional steering wheel-mounted selector, dubbed the eManettino, which manages the power flows from and to the high voltage battery and the wheels (traction). It offers the driver a choice of four modes:

> eDrive: the internal combustion engine remains off and traction is entrusted entirely to the electric front axle. Starting with a fully charged battery (with a capacity of 7.9 kWh), the car can cover up to 25 km in this mode which is ideal for city-centre driving or any other situation in which the driver wishes to eliminate the sound of the Ferrari V8. The 135 kph speed limit means the car can also be used on out-of-town roads;

> Hybrid: this setting optimises the system’s overall efficiency. The control logic autonomously decides whether to keep the internal combustion engine running or turn it off. Power flow from the electric motors is limited to conserve battery power;

> Performance: this mode keeps the ICE running because the priority is more on charging the battery than on efficiency. This guarantees that power is instantly and fully available when required. This mode is best suited to situations in which driving pleasure and fun behind the wheel are the main focus; and

> Qualify: this mode allows the system to achieve maximum power output by letting the electric motors work at their maximum potential (162kW). The control logic prioritises maximum performance over battery charging.

The downforce generated by the SF90 Spider is largely determined by the patented aero device on the car’s tail: the shut-off Gurney. In order to guarantee the same performance as the coupé, the Ferrari team had to work on the volumes and surfaces of the roof to manage the direction of the aerodynamic flow towards the car’s tail.

The shut-off Gurney is a suspended element comprising two sections: one fixed and one mobile with a wedge-shaped front area. The system is controlled by a sophisticated logic that controls parameters such as speed, acceleration, steering wheel angle and pressure on the brake pedal, hundreds of times a second in order to identify dynamic conditions requiring more downforce and then promptly activates the system.

Exterior

When the RHT is deployed, the sides, front and tail of the SF90 Spider have the same distinctive styling as the SF90 Stradale.

The proportions of the SF90 Stradale transfer easily to the SF90 Spider even when the RHT is stowed away.

Compared to the coupe, the Spider's cockpit has been shifted forward, the roof is 20mm lower, the A-posts are more slender and the windscreen is more raked.

The front of the car is dominated by a very pronounced profile which underscores its aggressive character. The three air intakes in this area cool the electric motors (front) and the internal combustion engine (sides). The SF90 Spider also uses matrix LED headlight technology to improve visibility in all driving conditions thanks to active beam control.

The rear of the car is dominated by high exhaust pipes, which are the result of optimisation of the exhaust line layout. Their competition car vibe has been cleverly exploited to underscore the SF90 Spider’s track-inspired personality. This effect is further enhanced by the low tail area. More elongated luminous rings create a more horizontal perception of the tail lights, which are a radical break from the iconic round shape normally used on Ferrari’s mid-rear-engined berlinettas.

Interior

The look and feel of the cabin was driven in large part by the complete redesign of the HMI, which marked such a major leap forward on the SF90 Stradale. The instrumentation is now predominantly digital with all the screens going completely black when the car is not running, lending the cabin a very minimalist look. However, once the Engine Start button on the steering wheel is pushed, a “ceremony” of sorts begins that sees all the digital components in the driver cockpit gradually springing to life until the whole cockpit is aglow.

The central instrument cluster comprises a single 16” HD screen, which is curved towards the driver to make it easier to read and emphasise the wraparound cockpit effect. In the default screen, everything is dominated by a large circular rev counter, framed by the battery charge indicator.

The navigation screen is on one side of the rev counter with the audio controls on the other. The screen’s large dimensions mean that there is huge flexibility in terms of personalising the displays, which are also very easy to navigate using the steering wheel controls. It is, for example, possible to select a full-screen version of the navigation map.

Thanks to the introduction of the head-up display, the main information can be projected onto the section of windscreen within the driver’s field of vision.

The SF90 Spider’s steering wheel completes that transfer process from the competition world and also ushers in a new era by introducing a series of touch commands that allow the driver to control virtually every aspect of the car without ever taking their hands off the wheel.

The traditional controls include the now iconic Manettino, steering-wheel mounted headlight control, windscreen wipers, indicators. Of the new touch controls, the pad on the right-hand spoke allows the driver to navigate the central cluster screens, while voice and cruise controls are on the left-hand spoke. In the bottom left section of the central area, there are four buttons the driver uses to select the power unit mode.

The F1 bridge, a signature on the previous models, has now disappeared from the central tunnel and been replaced by a modern take on the gearshift gate, an iconic feature of Ferrari’s manual gearboxes. In the new gate, however, the gearshift grille is digital as befits an automatic transmission.

At the bottom of the tunnel is the compartment for stowing the new ignition key, which is an exact replica of the Ferrari Prancing Horse badge found on the bonnet, adding an authentic finishing touch to the cabin’s styling. The key works in full keyless mode so that the driver can not only start the ignition but also open the doors without taking it out of their pocket.

All new and used Ferrari cars are covered by an extended seven-year maintenance programme.


Nissan X-Trail 2.0L Hybrid variant recalled

                KUALA LUMPUR: Edaran Tan Chong Motor Sdn Bhd (ETCM), together with Tan Chong Ekspres Auto Servis Sdn Bhd (TCEAS), today announced a voluntary product recall campaign for Nissan X-Trail 2.0L Hybrid variant to enhance its engine room harness - hybrid power line.

Customers of the affected SUV variant will be notified directly through TCEAS by letter, or SMS/Whatsapp, and are advised to call the nearest TCEAS outlet for an appointment.

Only those made from June 2018 to May 2021 are affected.

As vehicle ownership might have changed over the years, current owners of this model are reminded to make appointment with the nearest TCEAS outlet as well.

All labour and enhancement parts for this campaign will be free of charge to owners.

Selected TCEAS outlets have extended operation hours and are open 365 days a year, making it easier for customers to service their vehicles on weekends and public holidays.

For more information, call Nissan Customer Care Centre Hotline at 1800-88-3838.


Indian court orders state to set uniform Covid-19 rules for carmakers

The Ford plant outside Chennai. — Reuters
CHENNAI: An Indian court tasked industrial safety officials today with visiting carmakers in the southern state of Tamil Nadu to draw up uniform safety guidelines for workers during a second devastating wave of COVID-19 infections amid the pandemic.

Workers at the Indian unit of Renault-Nissan had asked the Madras High Court for operations to be halted, saying social distancing norms were being flouted and the risk to their lives outweighed the health benefits provided by the company.

"Senior representatives from the department of industrial safety may be requested to make further visits to the Nissan-Renault manufacturing facility and...other auto manufacturing units...so that a unified set of guidelines may be imposed," the court said.

In a court filing on Monday reviewed by Reuters, the company said it wanted the state government to recommend adequate social distancing measures, based on practices at other automakers, amid the dispute with its workers union over safety.

The company added that while it was following practices at automakers such as Maruti, Hyundai, Kia, Ford and BMW, it was "impossible" to increase the space between workers beyond two feet to three feet (0.6 to 0.9 m) at some work stations.

The workers' union would file a counter petition, said M. Moorthy, its general secretary.

"Other manufacturers need to adopt the best practices we are pushing for, not the other way around," he said.

"We feel unsafe, and that is why we are against what the company is doing."

The plant resumed operations last week after a strike by workers who said they felt unsafe because of a rising number of virus infections at the factory.

Tamil Nadu, home to a flourishing automobile industry, is one of the Indian states worst hit by the pandemic.

Labour unions for Renault-Nissan, Ford Motor Co and Hyundai Motor Co have written letters of protest arguing that hundreds of workers in the automaking hub of Chennai have fallen ill with Covid-19 and dozens have died.

Ford and Hyundai also halted work at their plants last month after workers protested and some went on strike.


2015 Audi R8 heads for Geneva

                GENEVA: At the 2015 Geneva Motor Show, Audi will present the second generation of its high-performance R8 sports car.

The mid-mounted V10 and newly developed quattro all-wheel-drive system ensure breathtaking performance, especially in the top-of-the-range version with 610PS, which not only powers to 100kph from rest more rapidly than any series production Audi in history but is also the first to be capable of officially pushing beyond 322kph.

"The new R8 V10 plus is the most powerful and fastest series-production Audi of all time. Motorsport is in Audi’s genes, it has always been a permanent feature of our brand’s character,” says Dr Ulrich Hackenberg, Board Member for Technical Development at Audi.

The 5.2-litre FSI engine at the heart of the new R8 is available in two versions: one with 540 PS and another producing 610 PS.

The sound of the naturally aspirated V10 engine, whose maximum torque is available at 6,500 rpm, has become even fuller and sharper.

A seven-speed S tronic transmission and a newly developed quattro drive system transmit the power to the road.

The distribution of the drive torque is highly adaptable to prevailing driving conditions – in extreme cases, 100 percent of the torque can be transmitted to the front or rear axle.

The dynamic spearhead of the range – the R8 V10 plus - has a dry weight of 1,454kg.

The multimaterial Audi Space Frame (ASF) ensures low weight and optimum axle load distribution.

The combination of aluminium and carbon fibre reinforced plastics (CFRP) in the Audi Space Frame opens up new dimensions with regard to weight, rigidity and crash behaviour.


Interstate travel likely to be allowed by first half of October

                PUTRAJAYA: Interstate travel will likely be allowed during the first half of October, says National Recovery Council chairman Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin.

Muhyiddin said the issue was one of the things discussed during the council’s meeting today, which included several other Cabinet ministers.

“During the meeting, the council was told that interstate travel could be allowed early October or latest, the middle of the month.

“So, you can start making plans to travel the country after this. But at the same time, do not forget to practise Covid-19 SOPs (standard operating procedure),” said Muhyiddin at a press conference after the meeting.

Muhyiddin said the council also discussed the reopening of the country’s borders to tourists and business travellers.

“The reopening of the country’s borders was also discussed. This will be deliberated by the ministers involved within this week.

“They will be looking into whether to allow fully vaccinated Malaysians to travel abroad. At the same time, it will also be discussed whether to allow tourists and business travellers into our country.

“I believe that would bring a big effect to the country.

“So, this matter will be brought up to the Prime Minister, and an announcement on it could be made soon,” said Muhyiddin.


Taiwan firm claims its HUD tech is superior to what is available in market

                TAIPEI: A Taiwanese automotive electronics design company expects its patented technology for head-up displays (HUDs) to be widely embedded into electric and commercial vehicles by 2023.

FIC (First International Computer) has developed full colour laser beam scanning technology for HUD products and was recently recognised as a CES 2021 Innovation Honoree earlier this month.

According to FIC spokesman Alex Dee, its laser tech offers drivers the most comfortable, clearest and safest imaging effect in any weather conditions.

He said the FIC tech prevents direct sunlight from interfering with the projected image, and can automatically adjust the brightness during driving.

"Many of the HUD products in the market today are built by applying TFT (thin-film-transistor) or DLP (digital light processing) technology, and most of them will reduce the display clarity due to the influence of natural light, which will cause the driver's eyes to be tired easily and the projected images become blur in some way," said Dee.

In recent years, augmented reality (AR) technology has evolved from 2D images to 3D projection.

Similarly, when AR technology is applied to daily driving, all data information of vehicle will no longer be limited to the digital instrument cluster.

FIC said its full colour laser beam scanning technology can clearly project the AR images 5-50 metres ahead on the road under strong sunlight, heavy rain and foggy situations, enhancing safety.

In addition, eye tracking technology has been applied into the FIC augmented reality head-up display system, so it can automatically track the driver's eyes and provide vehicle information like speed, navigation, traffic warning, forward collision detection, lane departure warning, pedestrian detection, traffic sign recognition and other important warning signals on the windshields in order to assist the drivers pay more attention on the road instead of looking down at the cluster upon driving.

At the same time, when these messages are displayed through AR technology, the virtual images and the real traffic environment are integrated in 3D in order to provide the driver with a clearer, safer and more convenient driving experience.


BMW drums up Malaysia Day treats

                KUALA LUMPUR: In conjunction with Malaysia Day, BMW Group Malaysia is revving up the celebration with BMW M through a host of special campaigns.

BMW Group Malaysia managing director Hans de Visser said while the company was unable to replicate the exciting ///Malaysia Day Drive celebrations last year during this time, it does not mean that the celebrations this year are any less significant.

 M5. M3 Competition. M8 Gran Coupe.

"This year, we are collaborating with our dealerships to bring together fans and enthusiasts in a safe manner to celebrate the passion and resilience for our beloved country.

"Beyond the special campaigns, we hope the 58th Malaysia Day celebration together will give our fans and enthusiasts a meaningful lift as the environment continues on the road to recovery.

"After all, we too like to associate M for Malaysia!” he said.

Malaysia Day is set to be a treat for M enthusiasts, who can look forward to special campaigns at selected BMW M dealerships on their favourite M models.

 X4 M Competition. M8 Coupe. M850i xDrive Coupe.

The special campaigns will include models such as the M8 Coupé, the M8 Gran Coupé, the M850i xDrive Coupé, the M3 Competition (with Innovation Package), the M5 and the X4 M Competition–entailing special offers such as tax exemptions, 0% interest rates and attractive trade-in deals.

M customers and fans can look forward to these experiences throughout the week.

Auto Bavaria
Auto Bavaria will be having campaigns and offerings at all its dealerships this Malaysia Day on the M8 Gran Coupé, M8 Coupé and M850i xDrive Coupé.

Malaysia Ingress AutoDamansara and Puchong
Ingress Auto will be going live with its All-New M configurator this Malaysia Day.

Quill Automobiles Petaling Jaya
Quill Automobiles will be celebrating a special week with the M850i xDrive Coupé which is the highlight of its dealership during the Malaysia Day celebrations.

Wheelcorp Premium Setia Alam
Wheelcorp Premium will be focusing its celebrations on the M4 Competition with Innovation Package as well as a special campaign on the flagship M5.

Millennium Welt Seremban
Millennium Welt is celebrating Malaysia Day with the M3 Competition with Innovation Package.
Expect a special day and offeringsforthePremium Mid-sized Performance Sedan.

Seong Hoe Premium Motors Melaka
Seong Hoe Premium Motors will be celebrating Malaysia Day with the M3 Competition with Innovation Package and the M8 Gran Coupé.
Customers and enthusiasts can expect special campaigns and offerings for the stable of M vehicles from the Melaka-based dealership.

Tian Siang Premium Auto Ipoh and Butterworth
Tian Siang Premium Auto will be celebrating with the X4 M Competition this Malaysia Day.

Regas Premium Group
The East Malaysian BMW M Flagship Dealerships in Sarawak and Sabah will be celebrating Malaysia Day with the X4 M Competition.


UMW Toyota Motor continues sales push in May

                SHAH ALAM: UMW Toyota Motor ended May with a dominating position recording an impressive 7,875 units sold for Toyota and 129 units for Lexus.

The combined Toyota and Lexus total sales of 8,004 are slightly higher than the 6,767 units (Toyota+ Lexus) recorded in April.

The cumulative sales for the year up to May reached an impressive total of 39,990 units, showcasing a notable growth of 8% compared to the year-to-date sales of 36,972 units registered as of May 2022.

May also saw UMWT taking a proactive approach in fulfilling its responsibility to provide low-carbon transport solutions that cater to the diverse needs of Malaysians.

UMWT brought in sample units of the highly anticipated Toyota bZ4X, an all-electric vehicle, to conduct market research and technical evaluations on local road conditions.

This move aligns with Toyota's multi-pathway strategy, which aims to achieve carbon neutrality by offering a range of options, including battery electric vehicles (BEVs), fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs), and hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs).

UMWT president Datuk Ravindran K said Toyota has a multi-pathway strategy towards carbon neutrality and this is evident through various green powertrains that are each developed to best meet the unique needs of customers in different parts of the world.

“For Malaysia, we believe HEVs are the most suitable for Malaysians, considering the fuel source of our electricity generation and availability of charging infrastructure outside city centres on the west coast of Peninsular Malaysia. We will add more HEV models in 2023,” he said.

May marked the grand opening of the first eco-friendly Lexus showroom in Klang.

This eco-friendly showroom exemplifies Lexus' dedication to reducing its carbon footprint and making significant strides towards achieving carbon neutrality by 2050.

As an authorised dealer, PCM Klang Motor Sdn Bhd is also providing Toyota customers with the opportunity to upgrade their vehicles to Lexus models through their trade-in programmes.

 RX 350 Luxury.

In more exciting news, following its global debut in June of last year, the highly anticipated fifth-generation Lexus RX was launched in May.

Built on the advanced GA-K version of the Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA), the latest RX is 90kg lighter than its predecessor, offering improved performance and fuel efficiency, with a comprehensive five-year, unlimited-mileage warranty for added peace of mind.

The RX is offered in the RX 350 Luxury variant, with a retail price of RM468,888 on-the-road without insurance.

UMWT has also continued its commitment to providing exceptional services through Toyota Extra Mile in its June promotion.

Enjoy promotions worth up to RM8,000* with the Toyota Corolla offered at an affordable monthly installment starting from RM1,108, while the All-New Vios provides budget-friendly installments starting from just RM688.