After F1 Grand Prix, Bahrain turns to helmet production

                SAKHIR (Bahrain): Host of a Formula One Grand Prix, Bahrain is cementing its racing footprint by locally manufacturing top-notch racing helmets for drivers as the Gulf kingdom clinches a manufacturing spot in the sport.

At a production facility in Sakhir - a southern desert region that has hosted the Bahrain Grand Prix since 2004 - the renowned Bell Racing Helmets are displayed inside plastic cases.

More than 45,000 helmets were produced there last year, said Aref Yazbeck, the Bahrain managing director for the Racing Force group which owns the Bell Racing brand.

"This year we are planning another increase in manufacturing," he told AFP from the Bell Racing headquarters in Bahrain.

The production facility is owned by Racing Force SPA, a multinational that specialises in motor sport safety equipment.

It manages several brands including Bell Racing - which started in the US in 1954 and is the leading supplier of helmets for Formula One.

During the 2023 Formula One season in Bahrain, 14 out of 20 drivers used Bell Racing Helmets produced at the Sakhir facility, Yazbeck said.
The sprawling complex was set up in 2015 as part of an effort by Racing Force SPA to centralise production efforts in one global hub.

The facility will expand from seven thousand to twelve thousand square metres by the end of the year, according to Yazbeck.

The Bell Racing Helmets have been sported by racing champions such as Lewis Hamilton, Charles Leclerc, Spaniard Carlos Sainz, as well as other members of the Ferrari, McLaren and Alfa Romeo teams.

In 2004, Bahrain became the first Arab country to host a Formula One race before the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia and Qatar followed suit.

Investing heavily in sports, Gulf states trying to wean their economies away from oil are often accused of trying to 'sport wash' their reputation which is regularly undermined by accusations of human rights violations.

But a competitive tax system and exemptions on custom fees for certain imports makes Bahrain "the best choice," for helmet production, said Yazbeck.

Home to the US Navy's Fifth Fleet, the tiny kingdom's ties to Washington also boost its appeal.

"One of the main reasons of moving to Bahrain is the Free Trade Agreement between the US and Bahrain," which entered into force in 2006, said Yazbeck.

"This is very important for us because more than 55 percent of our manufacturing is shipped to the US."

Inside the factory, workers in grey t-shirts test the helmets for safety.
Others polish or paint their exterior before packing them in cardboard boxes for export to more than 80 countries worldwide.

"It takes 14 days from the day we start till the day we finish to manufacture one helmet," Yazbeck said.

"It's a manual job... it's a handmade product, it's craftsmanship."


Honda's Yoichiro Ueno heading back to Japan to drive future mobility

                PETALING JAYA: The former Honda Malaysia boss, Yoichiro Ueno (pic), will be returning to Honda Motor in Japan to work on new business strategies and innovations in future mobility.

Ueno had served as Honda Malaysia chief executive officer and managing director for four years from January 2011. He was then posted to Honda India from 2016 for two years before the latest development.

His new appointment is part of the executive reshuffle in Honda’s Asia-Pacific operations announced last month. Honda Malaysia is now headed by Toichi Ishiyama.

READ MORE: 2017 Tokyo Motor Show: Honda bullish on hybrids for Asians

During his relatively short stint in India, Ueno introduced the BR-V, Accord Hybrid, the new City and WR-V. He also laid the foundation for the launch of new models including the new Amaze, new CR-V and the comeback of the Civic.

Gaku Nakanishi will helm Honda India from April 1.

Like many other car makers, Honda is betting on electrification and AI in future car and motorcycle models. Among those showcased at the 2017 Tokyo Motor Show were Honda Sports EV Concept:Honda Urban EV Concept, and Honda Fure-Mobi Concept as well as the CR-V HYbrid and Clarity PHEV.

Honda Fure-Mobi Concept also expands on the idea of personal mobility with such concepts as the Honda Fure-Mobi Concept, a two-seater the size of an electric wheelchair, that is designed traveling on walkways or indoor spaces.


Acura presents the NSX GT3 racecar

                LOS ANGELES: Acura has released official images of the highly anticipated NSX GT3 racecar that'll spearhead the brand in its North American racing campaign from next year onwards.
It wasn't long after its near-production NSX won its North American racing debut at the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb in the Time Attack 2 class.

The company is now hard at work to prepare its twin-turbo charger for homologation as an FIA GT3 class racecar by outfitting it with lightweight carbon fibre bodywork at GingerMan Raceway in South Haven, Michigan in the United States.

The NSX GT3 racecar features custom bodywork and aero components including a large deck wing spoiler, underbody diffuser and enlarged hood vents for efficient engine cooling for its 3.5-litre, 75-degree, twin-turbo DOHC V6 engine.

The engine is effectively the same as the one found in the production Acura NSX - including the block, heads, valvetrain, crankshaft, pistons and dry sump lubrication system, which is managed by a six-speed, sequential-shift racing gearbox before sending it to the rear wheels.

The NSX GT3 is produced by the Performance Manufacturing Center in Ohio, the exclusive manufacturing home for the new Acura NSX, along with the engine,

Initial development of the racecar was conducted by the company's Japan race engineering arm with testing on race circuits in Europe and Japan.

Additional development, testing and final homologation to FIA GT3 global racing specifications is currently being undertaken by the company's North American race engineering group, Honda Performance Development (HPD), in Santa Clarita, California.

"Building on the very solid foundation of the production NSX, we're making steady progress in our development and looking forward to campaigning the GT3 racecar next year," said Honda Performance Development president Art St. Cyr.


Opinion: Geely’s Li risks running down Volvo in merger

File pic of Li. A blockbuster valuation will help fund Li's future ambitions in a tougher global auto industry and pay down the debt he’s built up.
HONG KONG: Chinese billionaire Li Shufu is bringing his cash cow in-house. Let’s hope he doesn't milk it dry.

Volvo Car AB and Hong Kong-listed Geely Automobile Holdings Ltd have said in a statement that they’re considering merging their businesses in a combined entity that would tap capital markets through Hong Kong and Stockholm.

The parent company that they share, Zhejiang Geely Holding Group Co., is run by the ambitious Li, who seems to be taking a big first step towards consolidating his sprawling holdings.

Other moves, such as a spinoff, had already been signalled. In a bond prospectus dated November, Geely Automobile said that Volvo and the parent intended to merge operations into a standalone business to develop "next generation combustion engines and hybrid powertrains.”

Volvo Car said this would clear the way for it to focus on developing all-electric premium vehicles. Li has spent billions buying or building stakes in the likes of Mercedes Benz-maker Daimler AG, Volvo AB and Lotus Cars Ltd through to flying-car maker Terrafugia Inc. He was recently reported to be in the running to make an investment in Aston Martin Lagonda Global Holdings Plc. Until now, he’s kept them separate but under his holding company.

Bringing the Swedish and Chinese car companies under the same umbrella makes sense at first glance. Volvo Car’s stable profits (US$5.5 billion in 2019) could offset the tough terrain that Geely faces in China’s shrinking car market.

The two already collaborate through a joint venture on the Lynk & Co. brand. Since the parent bought Volvo in 2010, Geely’s cars have received an upgrade after it set up the joint China-Euro Vehicle Technology AB research and development centre.

There’s also a case for cost sharing. Volvo is focused on the higher- and greener-end of the car spectrum. Geely hasn’t quite gotten there. That will help as China pushes forward with its electric car ambitions.

The pair said in their statement that the merger would "accelerate financial and technological synergies” and create a strong global group.

So, let’s talk about the finances.

To build up his empire, Li has piled on leverage at the Zhejiang Geely holding company level. Net debt stood at US$8.1 billion at the end of September, more than double from a year prior. It needs to service that debt while feeding and funding its ambitions. S&P Global Ratings expects the company’s leverage to increase this year as volumes and margins contract.

Volvo has been a cash source for its parent. In 2019, Volvo paid out dividends of 2.9 billion krona (US$306 million), with 2.8 billion krona of that to its parent. That was higher than the first dividends paid out in 2016. Volvo injected 1.15 billion krona into another jointly-owned Geely brand, Polestar Group, last year. Related-party transactions with the Geely sphere of companies totalled 4.1 billion krona in 2019.

Geely has held up relative to its auto-making peers, but earnings have been shrinking as sales in the world’s largest car market deteriorate. Its ability to spend and stay ahead of the technology curve are also constrained. It shelled out US$423 million on capital expenditures in the 12 months to June last year, compared to Volvo’s US$1.25 billion in 2019. It’s clear who will be driving once they come together.

The parent company will keep its firm grip. Through connected transactions, it holds the licences that Geely uses to manufacture the cars in China. Because of this structure, Geely can make and sell cars there while holding 99% stakes in operating subsidiaries, despite its offshore incorporation, according to Moody’s Investors Service Inc.

Li needs this merger to work. With the coronavirus potentially wreaking operational havoc, the parent company has to be in financial order.

A blockbuster valuation will help fund his future ambitions in a tougher global auto industry and pay down the debt he’s built up. What better way than to create an improved asset in the new entity, give it a boost with your crown jewel, Volvo, and monetise it. A more valuable asset makes for better collateral. Li will look to maximise the efficiency of his capital.

Geely, with an enterprise value of around US$16 billion, trades at 7.2 times earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation. It’s sitting on cash of around US$2 billion and very little debt. Volvo generated US$3.2 billion of Ebitda in 2019. Assuming a multiple of 2.5 times earnings, around that of other European carmakers, would value the Swedish company at around US$8 billion.

The valuation of the combined entity will be higher. Even two years ago, Volvo was looking for a valuation of double that on the lower end to as much as US$30 billion when talk of going public alone surfaced.

Wherever the valuation comes out and whatever shareholders are willing to digest, let’s hope there are indeed synergies and Geely isn’t drawing too much out of Volvo Cars. That may defeat the purpose of Li’s entire exercise.

> This article is a Bloomberg Opinion piece by columnist Anjani Trivedi.


British firm Langen cleans up two-stroke with new sports motorcycle

                LONDON: A British manufacturer has launched a sports motorcycle using a new version of the oil-burning two-stroke engine which once choked the streets with blue smoke until tough air pollution laws virtually killed them off.

Bespoke manufacturer Langen Motorcycles claims to have tamed the 250cc V-twin engine unit from Italian ex-Ferrari specialists Vins using modern fuel and oil injection systems.

Langen said the engine passes the "sniff test" but still "emits the pleasingly smoky sights that bike enthusiasts relish with two-stroke motorcycles." The company has not released emission figures but calls the engine "environmentally considerate".

The lightweight, street-legal machine is styled as a cafe racer and turns out a whacking 75hp, which gives it supercar road performance. Limited to 100 examples, the machine is handbuilt and costs £28,000 (RM151,000) to buy.

"For me, with all these electric bikes now launching, the first Langen is a final swansong for the two-stroke; an intriguing modern twist on a proud performance café racer tradition,” said company founder Christofer Ratcliffe.

As a design, the two-stroke engine is flawed by its need to use oil added to the fuel as a lubricant for the moving parts. The oil is burnt during combustion and emitted into the atmosphere.

The most notorious two-stroke engine was the fume-belching unit fitted to the humble East German Trabant cars, which came to symbolise freedom when the Berlin Wall fell.

Road vehicles with two-stroke engines are rare and their use is restricted to off-road motocross motorcycles, a handful of scooter models and lawnmowers. Some countries have banned their use in certain areas.

The Langen harks back to the mid-1980s when sophisticated strokers from Japanese makers Yamaha, Suzuki and Kawasaki ruled the road. The bikes were noted for dramatic acceleration and a characteristic high-speed whine.

Langen said the order books are open for the Two-Stroke with a £1,000 (RM5,400) refundable deposit needed to secure what is the company's first motorcycle.

Production will start in mid-2021 at a rate of two-to-three examples per week.


Facelifted Honda CR-V launched

PETALING JAYA: The refreshed Honda CR-V was launched today, priced from RM139,800.

It's available in three variants and two engine options. The two-wheel drive 2.0L CR-V goes for RM139,800 (OTR), while the four-wheel drive version is RM150,800. A 2.4L four-wheel drive CR-V is going for RM169,800. This is the first time a two-wheel drive version is available as Honda tries to broaden the CR-V reach and fend off competition from midsize SUV rivals.

The latest CR-V has a sportier look, and features smart entry with push start button, an eight way-powered driver's seat, and LED daytime running lights. Safety is further enhanced with the Honda LaneWatch feature.

Designed under the concept of "Value Up CR-V", the CR-V maintains key features from its predecessor to offer more comfort interior-wise, with a strong and elegant styling.

The new 2.0L 2WD variant shares the same powertrain as the 2.0L 4WD (SOHC i-VTEC; 155PS and 190Nm) which is mated to a 5-speed Automatic Transmission to provide a balance of fuel efficiency and performance.

The difference in drivetrain in the 2WD offers better fuel efficiency. To further enhance the fuel consumption, all variants comes standard with an ECON Mode Switch Button to improve fuel efficiency.

The latest CR-V is designed to look bolder and tough with a striking design and a streamlined body.

 The LaneWatch safety feature in the 2.4L CR-V.

Highlighting bold, aggressive and sporty sentiments, the CR-V comes with 2-tier front grille with chrome accents as well as new front and rear bumpers.

Interior wise, the CR-V has numerous changing points completed with silver coating and chrome plating finishing for a sleek and premium feel.

The CR-V 2.0L 2WD has numerous features such as Smart Entry with Push-Start Button, LED Daytime Running Lights and 8-way driver power seats to provide convenience to the driver. The class leading spaciousness of the CR-V provides comfort in terms of headroom and also legroom for both passengers and the driver.

Furthermore, the cargo space area can be increased dramatically from 589 litres to 1,146 through the One-Motion Rear Foldable Seats.

Honda Malaysia said the CR-V is equipped with the highest safety specifications across all variants such as Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA), Emergency Stop Signal, Hill Start Assist, and 6 Airbags (2.4L 4WD) (2.0L 2WD and 2.0L 4WD – 4 Airbags) to further strengthen its position as the safest SUV in the market.

The CR-V is fitted with an advanced safety technology feature known as the Honda LaneWatch (2.4L 4WD) - the first model in its segment to have this feature. This new technology enhances the driver’s view of passenger-side traffic, and is said to give the driver four times better visibility when compared with using the side mirror alone.

Honda Malaysia managing director and CEO Yoichiro Ueno said "the new 2.0L 2WD variant will provide more options to active achievers and young urban families."

The CR-V is available in five colours – Modern Steel Metallic, Taffeta White, Twilight Blue Metallic, Alabaster Silver Metallic and Crystal Black Pearl.

Honda is also offering four accessories packages for the CR-V that combine interior and exterior enhancements. The packages start at RM2,650.

Honda Malaysia offers a 5-year warranty with unlimited mileage and service interval of 10,000km.

The CR-V was first introduced to the market in 1995 and has garnered more than 130 awards worldwide with the latest being the Crash Worthiness Performance Award during the first-ever Asean NCAP Grand Prix.

Since its debut in 2001 in Malaysia, the CR-V has been well-received and is one of the most sought after SUVs with more than 52,000 units sold.

The fourth generation CR-V is the No.1 selling SUV in Malaysia with total sales of more than 14,700 units since its launch in March 2013.

Honda Malaysia targets to sell 700 units of the new CR-V per month.

Its launch comes ahead of the launch next month of a smaller Honda crossover, the HR-V.


Porsche steps up driving pleasure with Macan T

                STUTTGART: The Macan T has now been added to the successful Porsche model range.

This is the first four-door sports car that will bear the special designation, which was previously the preserve of the 911 and 718 models.

Porsche positions the Macan T between the Macan and the Macan S.

The letter T has represented a unique form of dynamic driving at Porsche since the 1960s.

It stands for "Touring" and identifies models that, according to Porsche, offer "an especially authentic driving experience", thanks to precise tuning, exclusive equipment and efficient engines.

As with the Porsche 911 T of 1968, the new Macan T features a different dynamic set-up and a lightweight, two-litre turbo engine, combined with an athletic design and a range of standard equipment that is ideal for a sporty driving style.

The two-litre, four-cylinder turbo engine of the Macan T combines agility, low weight and a compact design to create a package that offers a balance of weight and performance.

Compared to the 2.9-litre biturbo V6 engine in the Macan S, the powertrain in the Macan T weighs 58.8kg less on the front axle. This gives the vehicle an excellent start-off performance and optimum cornering ability.

The Macan T has an output of 261hp and 400Nm of torque. As is generally the case with the compact SUV, the engine is coupled with a fast-switching seven-speed dual clutch transmission (PDK) and the Porsche Traction Management (PTM) all-wheel drive system.

A broad spread of torque provides responsive acceleration in all driving situations.

When fitted with the standard Sport Chrono Package including the mode switch and Sport Response button on the steering wheel, the Macan T accelerates from 0 to 100kph in 6.2 seconds and reaches a top speed of 232kph.

The Macan T is the only Porsche model to feature steel suspension with Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) as standard, combined with the body being lowered by 15mm.

The anti-roll bars on the front axle are more rigid and the car’s chassis tuning has been optimised to create the perfect suspension for the vehicle and powertrain, resulting in very responsive steering behaviour and agile handling.

The Porsche Traction Management (PTM) has also been adapted to the driving demands of the Macan T and has been specially designed with a rear-wheel bias.

Adding adaptive air suspension with PASM and lowering the body by a further 10mm is also an option – a new feature for Macan models with four-cylinder engines.

Porsche Torque Vectoring Plus (PTV Plus) can also be added: the system has been adapted to the characteristics of the T model and further sharpens the driving dynamics.

Design elements painted in Agate Grey Metallic on the front, flank and rear of the Macan T differentiate the vehicle from other variants in the series.

The exclusive contrast colour can be seen on the painted front trim, exterior mirrors, side blades, roof spoiler and logos on the rear.

Sports tailpipes and side window trims in Black (high gloss) are included as standard and the side blades feature the "Macan T" logo in black.

Twenty-inch Macan S wheels, exclusively in dark titanium, come as standard. Customers can choose from a range of 13 plain, metallic and special colours for the exterior.

The interior of the Macan T has its own distinct ambience.

The standard, eight-way electrically adjustable heated sports seats feature exclusive upholstery based on the Black leather package.

The centres of the front seats and the outer rear seats are delivered with the Sport-Tex Stripe pattern and the front headrests each have an embossed Porsche crest.

The contrasting colour from the exterior continues inside the vehicle in the form of decorative silver stitching on the seats, headrests and steering wheel.

Standard equipment also includes a multifunction GT heated sports steering wheel and the Sport Chrono stopwatch in the upper part of the dashboard.

The door entry guards come in black aluminium as standard and feature a Macan T logo.

Optional features include the multifunction GT sports steering wheel in Race-Tex with carbon trims and an ioniser.

The Macan T also benefits from all of the new elements of the model generation revised in summer 2021, such as the new centre console with its sophisticated glass-look and touch-sensitive surface, as well as the fully networked Porsche Communication Management (PCM) system with a 10.9-inch touch screen and online navigation as standard.


Guess what, Britain's Dyson to build EVs in Singapore

An artist's impression of the planned EV plant in Singapore.
LONDON: Dyson Ltd, famous for making vacuum cleaners, picked Singapore to build its first electric car, pushing ahead with plans to challenge Tesla Inc. in the hottest sector of the automotive market.

The closely held British manufacturer, also known for hand dryers and air purifiers, said Tuesday it will complete the factory by 2020 and stuck to a goal of rolling out its first model by 2021 as part of a 2 billion-pound (RM10.8bil) effort to expand into automobiles.

The choice of Singapore - which doesn’t have a single car-making plant and is one of the costliest places in the world to buy an automobile - comes as Tesla zeroes in on establishing a factory in China.

The decision is a victory for the city state, home to the planet’s second-largest container port and a manufacturing hub for high-technology products such as Rolls Royce Holdings Plc aircraft engines.

Dyson is among new contenders entering the race to make electric vehicles, which are gaining market share from gasoline-powered autos. Besides Tesla, Dyson will compete with global giants such as Daimler AG, Volkswagen AG and General Motors Co. that are all charging ahead with EV plans.

Singapore, with fewer than 6 million people, is a minor market itself but has technology talent and strong intellectual-property protections, regularly topping regional IP rankings. Dyson already has a manufacturing hub in Singapore that focuses on digital motors, with the company employing about 1,100 people in the region.

The country also has a free trade agreement with China, the world’s largest market for electric cars. While Tesla last week took a step toward building an auto plant in Shanghai, Dyson’s founder, James Dyson, has complained about IP theft in China.

China will remain the top electric-vehicle market at least until 2040, when more than half of all new car sales and a third of the planet’s fleet - equal to 559 million automobiles - will be electric, according to a forecast by Bloomberg NEF. James Dyson said the company’s “centre of gravity” has tilted towards Asia, which last year generated almost three quarters of revenue growth.

“The decision of where to make our car is complex, based on supply chains, access to markets,” Dyson chief executive officer Jim Rowan said in a note to staff. "The availability of the expertise” will help the company achieve its ambitions.

Dyson had considered the Britain and various Asian locations for its car facility. It has extensive manufacturing experience in Malaysia, and previously made products in Britain, which may lose some of its allure for global companies with the planned exit from the European Union.

Dyson will build the plant itself rather than subcontract the work out to suppliers. Tesla has been going through what founder Elon Musk has called “production hell,” followed by “delivery logistics hell,” as the company has been ramping up volumes at its sole car factory in Fremont, California.

Exactly what type of cars Dyson will be producing remains to be revealed. Construction is still ongoing at its test facility at Hullavington, England, which includes a now 400-strong automotive team, a handling track and an off-road route.

Dyson’s plan is set to bring back auto manufacturing to Singapore after a decades-long absence. Ford Motor Co. established Southeast Asia’s first car-assembly plant in the country in 1941, and closed it down in 1980.

Now, Singapore is one of the world’s most expensive car markets because of the city state’s policies aimed at curbing congestion.

A standard Toyota Corolla Altis, one of the most popular models in the country, costs more than US$80,000 (RM333,000) when including the car-ownership permit and excise and registration duties. That’s about four times the price of an equivalent model in the United States.


Brexit drove Tesla to pick Berlin over Britain for new factory, says report

                LONDON: Britain missed its chance to host the first European factory of US electric vehicle pioneer Tesla because of Brexit, chief executive Elon Musk said in remarks reported today.

The company had earlier said it chose a location near Berlin for a new design centre and plant to make batteries, powertrains and vehicles, offering a major boost to the German capital.

Berlin’s minister in charge of economic affairs, Ramona Pop, said the move could create 6,000 to 7,000 jobs in production alone, with hundreds or even thousands more in areas such as design, software or research.

“Brexit made it too risky to put a Gigafactory in the UK,” Musk told industry website Auto Express.

No one from Tesla was immediately available to comment.

Britain’s vote to leave the European Union has hurt foreign investment because the country’s future trading relationship with the EU is still not clear, more than three years after the referendum.

Britain holds a parliamentary election in December in a bid to break the impasse. British Prime Minister Boris Johnson has said high levels of inward investment would return once terms of the withdrawal agreement have been settled.

Major carmakers such as Nissan have said a disorderly departure from the bloc, where companies face tariffs after leaving the EU without a transition deal, would be unsustainable and put its entire business model in jeopardy.

Britain’s department for business declined to comment on the report about Tesla.


Couple crashes car into Sabah police station

                KOTA KINABALU: A couple was arrested after they crashed their vehicle into the Ranau district police station here on Sunday.

Ranau OCPD Deputy Supt Simiun Lomudin said in the 9.17am incident, the 33-year-old male suspect who was driving his vehicle while his 27-year-old wife sat beside him drove straight into a signboard in front of the station's guardhouse.

"After that, the man drove towards the station lobby," he said.

He said the man got out of the car later, grabbed a trash can nearby and started hitting the lobby glass door and broke it.

No one was injured in this incident.

DSP Simiun said the couple was apprehended following the incident and were taken for a drug test.

"The man tested positive for drugs and we believe he had acted violently under the influence of substance," he said.

He said both suspects have been remanded to facilitate investigations into the case.


Euro 7 emissions standard to cost many times EC forecasts, says industry group

                LONDON: Proposed Euro 7 emissions regulations will lead to direct costs for auto manufacturers that are up to 10 times higher than the European Commission's forecasts, Europe's car industry group said today, citing a new study.

The European Automobile Manufacturers Association (ACEA) said a study by consultancy Frontier Economics found that the direct costs for petrol cars and vans - including type approval, investment and equipment costs - to comply with Euro 7 would be 1,862 euros (RM9,179) per vehicle, versus the Commission's estimate of 184 euros per vehicle (RM907).

The study said direct costs for buses and trucks would average 11,707 euros (RM57,709) per vehicle, compared with a Commission estimate of 2,765 euros (RM13,630).

The ACEA said the increase in prices for consumers and companies buying those vehicles would be even higher.

"The European auto industry is committed to further reducing emissions," ACEA Director General Sigrid de Vries said in a statement.

"However, the Euro 7 proposal is simply not the right way to do this, as it would have an extremely low environmental impact at an extremely high cost."

European carmakers have been fighting back against Euro 7, arguing the regulations are too costly and unnecessary because the industry is spending tens of billions of euros in zero-emission electric vehicles (EVs).

But the European Commission says the regulations are needed to cut harmful emissions and prevent a repeat of Volkswagen AG's so-called Dieselgate emissions scandal of 2015.

European Union countries and lawmakers will negotiate proposals this year for tighter limits for diesel - but not petrol - car emissions and for heavy-duty trucks and buses, including nitrogen oxide and carbon monoxide.

Euro 7 would take effect in mid-2025 for cars and in mid-2027 for trucks and buses.

Last week, Italy's transport minister said the country and its EU allies "have the numbers" to block Euro 7.


Volkswagen Malaysia aims higher in 2018: Used car business to start

                PETALING JAYA: This year, Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia (VPCM) will set up the German marque's Das WeltAuto used car programme.

"We are working with our dealer partners on this, and will kick start the used car business sometime this year. It is an area we cannot overlook. The used car programme will improve trade-in possibilities and also, new car sales," said VPCM managing director Erik Winter at a media briefing at Sheraton Petaling Jaya.

Another initiative in 2018 will be setting up the online Volkswagen Marketplace.

"Specific online special offers and deals will be made available on the Marketplace," he said.

Meanwhile, the refreshed 2018 Volkswagen Golf 5-door hatchback and its sports performance variants, the Golf GTI and Golf R will be launched soon.

"We don't have plans to locally assemble the Golf, because the volume for 5-door hatchbacks here is small," said Winter.

 2017 Volkswagen Golf Mk7 refreshed.

Last year, a total of 6,536 Volkswagen cars were delivered, marking a 8.1% year-on-year sales growth.

Winter said the Polo and Vento compacts, Passat executive sedan and Tiguan sport utility vehicle (SUV) contributed strongly to the improved sales.

He also pointed out that the brand had started 2018 strongly, with "2017 stocks nearly gone" due to recent initiatives such as a 3-year free maintenance programme.

As of 1st January 2018, all Volkswagen cars come with a 3-year or 45,000km (whichever comes first) free maintenance programme.

The programme covers all maintenance costs, as per the standard maintenance schedule, with the exception of wear-and-tear parts such as brake discs, pads, windscreen wipers and bulbs.

Recently, the company also launched a “Leaders of the Pack” Chinese New Year campaign which offers attractive rebates on the Volkswagen line-up, and also a free "Liquid Gold" petrol card worth RM1,188 for those who book and register their Volkswagen cars by February 28.

Improving customer engagement and after-sales

"In 2018, we aim to maintain sustainable growth and further improve customer experiences. Areas that we are continuously working on include improving dealer processes with our customers, addressing and handling customer enquiries more efficiently, reducing waiting times with on-site battery exchange," said Florian Steiner, VPCM managing director for aftersales, information technology and finance.

To improve and strengthen the Volkswagen brand, the company had undertaken various initiatives over the past year.

Among after-sales initiatives undertaken were more transparency, customer engagement, dealer staff engagement and training in co-operation with technical colleges, and on-site dealer support.

Volkswagen's ranking in the JD Power Customer Service Index (CSI) rose from 10th in 2016, to 5th in 2017.

"Our dealer partners are now much more engaged with the customers, compared with two years ago. We are happy with the developments in 2017, but we are far from satisfied," said Steiner.

Another initiative was making available a Service Pricing Guide in the My Volkswagen section on the Volkswagen Malaysia website.

"This means our customers can know what they expect to pay, when they send their cars to our authorised workshops."

As for parts availability, 95% of parts are available from the regional warehouse.

By September 2018, the regional Volkswagen after-sales centre will be located in Tanjung Pelepas, Johor.

This re-location from Singapore, is to ensure faster supply of genuine parts to 28 markets in South East Asia.

Directly connected dealershipsin Singapore and Malaysia will receive two deliveries of spare parts per day.

Regarding the 5-year manufacturer's warranty on all Volkswagen cars, the company has a policy of up to 5 working days for claims processing.

In addition, there are warranty experts from Volkswagen AG for dealer coaching, warranty claims checking for better repair quality, and a monthly warranty bulletin on current warranty issues and best practises.


Win ComicCon London 2019 trip with Petron Malaysia

                PETALING JAYA: As part of its on-going engagement with Marvel movie fans, Petron Malaysia is working with Disney Network Malaysia to give a rare chance to win a 5D/4N Marvel VIP experience in London and attend the London ComicCon in May 2019.

Customers and fans can enter the ComicCon London Contest when they spend a minimum RM50 on fuel at Petron stations, swipe their Petron Miles card and answer two questions correctly.

Petron will also select 450 consolation winners who will walk away with Ant-Man and The Wasp limited edition merchandise items such as vacuum flasks, T-shirts, hoodies and backpacks worth RM50.

Winners will be chosen every week throughout the contest period from June 21 to Aug 20.

“We are always looking for ways to reward Petron customers through our Fuel Happy campaigns and initiatives,” said Petron Malaysia head of retail services Faridah Ali.

“Our collaboration with Disney and Marvel Comics provided a great platform for us to treat and bring smiles to our loyal customers and on top of that, win an all-paid trip to London.”

Petron also organised an special viewing of the latest Marvel flick “Ant-Man and The Wasp” for its business partners, customers and the media on July 3, a day ahead of the show’s official public screening.


Toyota scores big at Sepang 1000KM

                SEPANG: Toyota returned to the prestigious Sepang 1000KM endurance race with a vengeance to clinch a historic 1-2 victory in the 9-hour race at Sepang International Circuit.

Three Toyotas finished in the top five overall positions and in the Malaysian Touring Car (MTC) Class in only Toyota’s second year participating in the race.

Toyota Gazoo Racing Malaysia’s #37 Vios with Gazoo Racing Malaysia ambassador Tengku Djan Ley Tengku Mahaleel and reigning Vios Challenge Sporting Class champion Naquib Azlan won the 181-lap race from pole position to cross the finish line 6.2 seconds ahead of their nearest rival - the #39 Yaris piloted by Hayden Haikal and Jwan Hii for Wing Hin Motorsports which is UMW Toyota Motor’s dealer.

Third place went to the Hi Rev Dream Chaser team’s Mitchell Cheah and Brendan Paul Anthony, while in fourth position was the #38 Wing Hin Motorsports Yaris driven by the pair of Boy Wong and Dannies Ng both cars finishing a lap down.

Rounding up the top five positions and finishing four laps down from the winning Vios was R Engineering HMRT’s Lee Wee Sing and Leon Khoo Beng Koon in the Honda City.

UMW Toyota Motor President Ravindran K said 2021 was all about learning and gaining track time to develop both the Vios and Yaris to take on the prestigious 1000KM challenge.

“We had an extensive programme in place as well as competitive cars, and we went on to win the race but we had to accept a penalty which classified us third in the MTC Class.

“Going on to win the race this year and doing it in the manner where we not only led from start to finish but had three cars in the top five positions overall more than makes up for that setback.

“From its standard production model form competing in five seasons of the Vios Challenge race series to its debut in the Vios Sprint Cup which is a one-hour race and now winning a 9-hour endurance race, the Vios has against all odds firmly established itself as a competitive model on the track,” said Ravindaran.

Ravindran said Toyota’s involvement in Malaysian motorsports has more importantly contributed to helping uncover and groom many new young driving talents.

“It’s about giving back to the community and in our case it means providing potential young Malaysian talent with the right platform and the opportunities to grow as competitive drivers.

“This has been consistent throughout Gazoo Racing Malaysia’s program over the past five years which began with affordable participation in the Vios Challenge, the introduction of a Young Talent Development Programme, and establishing a Rookie Class of racing in the Vios Challenge to promoting young drivers up the motorsports ladder to drive in more competitive machines and classes.

“I also want to thank our partners and sponsors for playing an instrumental part in the company’s racing achievements.”

Starting from pole position the #37 Toyota Vios of Naquib led into the first lap of the race before pacing in third position after the first hour of racing.

A slightly dislodged rear bumper due to contact on the track brought the car into the pit earlier than planned and cost him several minutes in repair.

With team mate Tengku Djan taking over driving duties going into the second hour, the #37 climbed one position to second place posting a lap of time 2 minutes 39.160 almost one second clear of everyone else.

Toyota’s prowess on the track was further demonstrated by having all three of its cars consistently running the race in the top 5 positions.

The second hour of racing onwards was dominated by the pair of Hayden Haikal and Jwan Hii who led the race in the #39 Yaris, while team mates Boy Wong and Dannies Ng in the #38 Yaris rounded up the top three positions.

 Tengku Djan (left) and Naquib.

All four drivers also happen to be regular contenders in the Vios Challenge race series.

With 58 laps to go or after six hours of racing, the pair of Tengku Djan and Naquib swept into the lead with a one lap advantage over Hayden and Hii, while the #38 Yaris of Wong and Ng trailed 58 seconds adrift in fourth position just behind the Hi Rev Dream Chaser’s Mitchell Cheah.

The #38 had been running as high as third where it stayed for more than an hour but with 13 laps to go, Hi Rev Dream Chaser’s Cheah reclaimed that position.

Naquib said he had done many endurance races on simulator but this was the first time he started an endurance race in real life.

“I’m happy to say there weren’t too many butterflies and I managed to calm my nerves.

“It was unfortunate that someone clipped my rear bumper in the first corner and we lost some time after being flagged in to come in for repairs.

“All in all, it was a great race. We wanted to make sure we had a clean race and that everything went according to plan,” said Naquib.

Naquib was one of the Gazoo Racing Malaysia’s pioneer rookie racers in the Vios Challenge, transitioning from simulator racing to saloon car racing.

He was crowned the overall Rookie Class champion in 2021, went on to win this year’s overall Sporting Class championship and will return for Season 6 next year to compete in the Super Sporting Class for elite and professional drivers.

For another young driver, Hayden, who was chasing his first elusive S1K victory, finishing second was still an outstanding result after amassing two third place finishes over the last two years.

“I misjudged the start and fell back to fourth position before catching up with the leaders and trying to maintain a good pace,” said Hayden.

“It’s the same car we drove in last year’s S1K but we’ve had a whole year of familiarising ourselves with the car this time having competed in the Malaysia Championship Series. I wanted to win, I expected nothing less than a top three finish but I’ll take second place after a very close race from start to finish,” he said.

Toyota Gazoo Racing Malaysia’s Standard Production (SP2) Class entry led by Vios Challenge Rookies Nabil Azlan (who is also this year’s Rookie champion), Muizzuddin Musyaffa and Muhammad Hamdany meanwhile, endured a troubled start despite qualifying on pole position.

The trio of young drivers finished 11th in their first ever S1K race.

A total of 77 cars lined up on the grid for the start of 14th edition of the Sepang 1000KM endurance race which was run over 180 laps or nine hours.

The race featured the MTC and SP2 Classes for cars below 1,600cc and the Gazoo Racing Vios Enduro Cup which was a race exclusively for the Toyota Vios cars competing in the Vios Challenge race series,.

In the Gazoo Racing Vios Enduro Cup Class, the father and son team of Al Farouk and Abdul Miqail driving for 23 Motors stormed to victory ahead of team mates Ady Rahimy and Amir Husin Mubarak, while in third was Carroof Motorsport’s quartet of Mirza Syahmi Mahzan, Aiman Haziq and Khair Nur Adi and Khair Nur Adli.

“It was a great race and my second time racing alongside my son in the S1K. To be honest the Vios Challenge has provided Abdul Miqail with a very strong foundation to develop his driving skills,” said Al Farouk.

Victory earned Al Farouk and Abdul Miqail RM10,000 in prize money, while the second and third place finishers bagged RM8,000 and RM6,000 respectively.

The Gazoo Racing Vios Enduro Cup offered a total of RM30,000 in prize monies with the fourth and fifth place winners also taking home RM4,000 and RM2,000 respectively.

A total of 14 cars were vying for honors in this exclusive class.

RESULTS – SEPANG 1000KM ENDURANCE RACE (OVERALL & MTC CLASS)
1. Toyota Gazoo Racing Malaysia Tengku Djan Ley/Naquib Azlan
2. Wing Hin Motorsports Hayden Haikal/Jwan Hii
3. Hi Rev Dream Chaser Mitchell Cheah/Brendan Paul Anthony
4. Wing Hin Motorsports Boy Wong/Dannies Ng
5. R Engineering HMRT Lee Wee Siong / Leon Khoo Beng Koon

RESULTS – GAZOO RACING VIOS ENDURO CUP
1. 23 Motors Al Farouk/Abdul Miqail
2. 23 Motors Ady Rahimy/Amir Husin Mubarak
3. Carroof Motorsport Mirza Syahmi Mahzan/ Aiman Haziq/ Khair Nur Adi/Khair Nur Adli.
4. Axle Sports Alister Yoong/Mikko Nassi/Rich Pham
5. Race Rally KL Shafiq Samsudin/Ahmad Nadzrie/Shasha/Kelvin Yap


Chairman Mao’s favourite car maker plans major electric expansion

Xu Liuping speaking at an event of Chinese car marque Hongqi, or Red Flag, held in Beijing on Wednesday. — Reuters
BEIJING: Red Flag, the car of choice for Chairman Mao Zedong six decades ago, has evolved with the times and is now planning for an electrified future.

The marque will introduce 21 new models over the next five years, 18 of them electric, said Xu Liuping, chairman of the brand’s parent, at a Beijing event late Wednesday. Red Flag targets a doubling in sales this year to 200,000 cars, and wants annual deliveries to reach 1 million in 2030, he said.

State-owned China FAW Group Corp. developed the first Red Flag in 1958 and the sedans have since been used by political leaders from Mao to President Xi Jinping. FAW kicked off a rejuvenation effort for the brand after Xu took over as chairman in 2017.

"The global automobile industry is going through a great reshuffle and the fully open Chinese car market is becoming the most competitive one in the world,” Xu said.

"The Red Flag brand is becoming a benchmark for China’s high-end automobile industry and a role model for local brands.”

To refresh its offerings, FAW in 2018 hired Rolls-Royce veteran Giles Taylor to oversee Red Flag’s design team. Taylor helped create vehicles such as the Phantom VIII and the Cullinan SUV for the British luxury marque.

Red Flag targets the premium segment of China’s car market, with its current models priced at approximately US$21,000 to US$66,000. FAW also makes cars with joint-venture partners including Volkswagen AG and Toyota Motor Corp.

Yet Red Flag is facing a tough market.

Sales of new energy vehicles, which includes electric cars, plug-in hybrids and fuel-cell autos, have declined for five consecutive months in China after the government scaled back subsidies.

Competition is also getting tougher, with Tesla Inc. starting local production and German brands BMW, Audi and Mercedes-Benz bringing out electrified models.


Amazon's self-driving robotaxi Zoox can work non-stop for 16 hours

                SEATTLE: Amazon is showing off its self-driving vehicle ambitions with its Zoox project, named after the startup recently acquired by the US giant.

It is an electric, self-driving robotaxi prototype, with capacity for four passengers.

Zoox is a relatively compact vehicle, but spacious enough to seat four people.

It is bi-directional (it can be driven forward or backward) and its four small guide wheels make it easy to park. Without a driver or even a steering wheel, Zoox can reach a top speed of 120kph in both ways.

Its massive 133kWh battery offers a 16-hour range, which means it can function all day without a break and charge up at night.

Zoox is equipped with AI and traffic management systems, meaning it can anticipate potential dangers to avoid on the road (other vehicles, pedestrians, animals, etc).

It boasts several cameras, radars and lidar technologies leading to a 360-degree view of its surroundings up to 150 metres from different angles.

This impressive-looking self-driving shuttle is currently being tested in San Francisco and Las Vegas.

Amazon acquired the company Zoox earlier this year.


What to expect from the new generation Ford Focus

The most recent third generation Ford Focus dates from 2014.
DETROIT: The American compact, which is to celebrate its 20th anniversary this year, is to undergo a makeover. Ford will unveil next Tuesday the new generation Focus. In the meantime, a teaser posted online has revealed some interesting details.

The new Focus will be available in the usual versions (hatchback, sedan and estate), but with slightly modified shapes.

As for its relatively aggressive running light pattern, which appears in the teaser, it seems to be directly inspired by competing brands, most notably Volvo. The automobile's interior, which is not shown in the teaser, remains a mystery, but it is safe to assume that it will feature a host of new technologies.

Under the bonnet, the 2019 Focus is expected to benefit from a new three-cylinder EcoBoost engine, and in time will be offered in hybrid and even 100% electric versions, as was the case with previous generations. With regard to the future sports version, the Focus RS, rumour has it that it will pack a hybrid powertrain that can exceed 400hp.

Let's not forget that for years, the Ford Focus has consistently been ranked among the world's top-10 bestselling automobiles.


Ford reveals latest Police Interceptor Utility

                CHICAGO: The Chicago Auto Show is about to open its doors and Ford will be unveiling its latest Police Interceptor Utility vehicle that will apparently change the face of US law enforcement.

The new ‘made-in-Chicago’ Ford Police Interceptor Utility features a new front and rear design, headlamps, instrument panel and a more efficient electrical system.

A unique feature includes Ford’s surveillance mode, which detects approaching people from the vehicle’s rear and automatically locks all doors and raises the windows.

Adding to the features list is the liftgate release switch in the front that unlocks the boot for 45sec before timing out, a 4-inch screen with rear-view camera and washer as standard or an optional rearview mirror instead.

The vehicle has all-wheel drive as standard and a six-speed automatic transmission to manage power from a naturally aspirated 3.7-litre V6 petrol engine with 300bhp and 378Nm of torque or a 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 producing 360bhp and 475Nm of torque.

The engines have been tuned to handle aggressive driving on road and track courses, braking and acceleration, top speed and city pursuits – as required by the Michigan State Police and Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department.

A special Pursuit Mode has been installed, where the transmission is able to detect aggressive driving situations - based on brake line pressure, deceleration and lateral acceleration rates and shortens the shift times.

Furthermore, it has also been tuned to perform a reverse J-turn – a manoeuvre that spins the reversing vehicle 180-degrees and continues forward.

Cooling has been optimised for the custom-developed brakes where the 18-inch steel wheels have been designed to add more ventilation.

More upgrades include heavy-duty powertrain mounts, reinforced subframe mounts, unique hubs and bearings, larger-diameter springs and highly durable tyres.

The Ford Police Interceptor Utility also features Level III ballistic shields in the driver and passenger doors, Sync, blind spot information system (BLIS) with cross-traffic alert and reverse sensors.


Toyota won't build cars at UK factory the day after Brexit

                LONDON: Toyota will not build cars at its British factory the day after Britain leaves the European Union as part of plans to handle any disruption from a potentially disorderly Brexit.

The autos sector, Britain’s biggest exporter of goods, has been one of the most vociferous opponents of a no-deal Brexit, warning that production would be hit with tariffs, border delays and new bureaucracy, ruining the viability of plants.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson has promised that Britain will leave the European Union on Oct 31 with or without a deal.

Toyota built just over 8% of Britain’s 1.52 million cars last year at its Burnaston factory in Derbyshire and began production of its new Corolla model there earlier this year.

“We will have a production pause on the first day of Brexit, which is Friday 1st, and... then we will restart production on the Monday and the Tuesday,” said a spokesman.

“We don’t know what the actual situation will be like. We’ve already pulled forward a couple of days of extra inventory which we will then use on the Monday and Tuesday and we will have to see what the situation is after that,” he said.

British car factories are integrated into supply chains which can stretch around the world and operate just-in-time manufacturing processes which mean some parts arrive minutes before being fitted onto vehicles rolling off production lines.

Toyota said no volume would be lost from the pause in output.

In a separate development, a fire broke out at the headquarters of Toyota in western Japan’s Toyota City today.

Toyota Motor Corp was investigating the blaze, believed to have broken out in the technology development division, said a company spokesman.

Public broadcaster NHK showed images of people evacuating the building, although there appeared to be little sign of smoke.

Toyota City is about 320km west of Tokyo, and near the city of Nagoya.


Intel’s Mobileye plans self-driving cars for the masses by 2025

                DETROIT: Mobileye NV is using the chip-making prowess of parent Intel Corp. to build laser sensors it says will make self-driving cars cheap enough to sell to retail buyers by 2025.

The Jerusalem-based company, which was acquired by Intel in 2017, has about 80% of the global market for advanced driver-assistance vision systems. It’s trying to parlay its dominance in camera-based car technology into a full self-driving sensor suite, including radar and costly laser sensors known as lidar that Mobileye aims to manufacture in-house using an Intel silicon chip.

Cameras and software the Intel division makes currently power car features that help drivers overcome blindspots or stay in their lanes. The company has been growing quickly, and its technology is among the most widely-deployed in fledgling efforts to shift the auto industry to autonomous vehicles.

But it’s still a very small part of Intel, which had annual sales of US$72 billion last year.

Intel chief executive officer Bob Swan has praised the division’s efforts and cited it as example of how the chipmaker is diversifying away from a dependence on the personal-computer market. For Mobileye to make an impact on Intel overall, it’ll have to find products that can be used in tens of millions of new cars and rake in billions of dollars of revenue.

More than cameras

Mobileye CEO Amnon Shashua says the company is on track to do just that.

"The ultimate holy grail is that everyone can go and purchase a car and have that car be autonomy enabled,” he said in an interview with Bloomberg Television.

"That’s a dream that can come true in the 2025 time frame. We are in serious discussions with several car manufacturers to start taking this kind of technology.”

Demand for Mobileye’s software-on-a-chip system has exploded as carmakers add more cameras to vehicles for advanced features such as pedestrian detection. automakers from General Motors Co. to BMW AG to Nissan Motor Co. rely on Mobileye tech for advanced driver-assist features, like Nissan’s ProPilot or GM’s Super Cruise, according to Sam Abuelsamid, principal analyst with Guidehouse Insights, a research company.

But Abuelsamid questions the idea that so-called level four technology — which allows automated driving in limited areas — is only four years away from showing up in car-dealer showrooms.

"We’ll see some level four stuff in that same time frame, but it’s going to be fairly limited,” he said. The capability "for consumer use is still going to be more limited to things like long-distance highway driving” on high-end vehicles.

New laser tech

Mobileye sees a business for full self-driving tech as soon as 2022, when it plans to sell its first level-four systems to commercial robotaxi operators and install it in its own fleet of driverless vehicles.

The company has an agreement with Volkswagen AG and Champion Motor Group Inc. to deploy robotaxis in Tel Aviv.

For that system, it will use lidar from Luminar Technologies Inc., which went public in a US$3.4-billion reverse merger last month.

The Intel unit’s longer-term goal for retail-market vehicles doesn’t involve Luminar.

Instead, Mobileye envisions using a different laser tech still under development called FMCW, which stands for frequency modulated continuous wave. Proponents claim this is more accurate because it can capture the speed of an object as well as its distance from the car.

Putting FMCW on an Intel chip will also make it cheaper, said Jack Weast, vice president of automated vehicle standards at Mobileye.

"You combine all this together, and now we’re talking about a self-driving system that is at a cost level that would fit into a vehicle that you and I could afford,” he said.

Not everyone believes FMCW is the best lidar option for self-driving systems. automotive tech supplier Aptiv Plc, for example, is taking a radar-centric approach that can use other types of lidar to achieve competitive performance and cost, it has said.

"I don’t think we know yet what the best solution is, I think it’s too early to tell,” said Abuelsamid. "There’s some other stuff out there that shows real potential as well that might be ready sooner.”


Citroën to roll out new crossover by 2018

                PARIS: After having sold three million cars last year, the second largest carmaker in Europe - PSA Group (Peugeot, Citroën and DS) has announced that it will roll out a new Citroën crossover from its plant in Rennes, France, within the next two years (2018).

As part of the product offensive included in the ‘Push to Pass’ plan, which includes 34 new models, the Rennes plant will start manufacturing a new market-winning vehicle for Citroën by 2018.

The ‘C84’ project is part of a dynamic product strategy will see four new models launched by the brand in less than 18 months.

Based on the EMP2 platform, the new Crossover will be manufactured alongside the future Peugeot 5008 and the Citroën E-Mehari.

With these three models, output at the plant will ultimately reach 100,000 vehicles per annum compared to its current 60,000 units.

The Rennes plant was chosen after a study carried out by the company over several months, reflecting the performance measures taken by the plant and the commitments made to upgrade operations.

The plant's upgrade plan puts forward several ground-breaking solutions, with the introduction of modern, agile manufacturing processes, with work beginning in early 2017 and scheduled to be completed in 2018.

The upgrade represents a €100 million investment, which will also benefit other automotive industry players in the UK.

An agreement - "Contract for the Future of Rennes", was signed on April 29 at the plant, with the support of five of the Group’s six trade unions (CFDT, CFE/CGC, CFTC, FO and SIA/GSEA), representing more than 80% of employees.

The decision to manufacture the new vehicle in Rennes was subject to this agreement, which will come into force on Jan 1, 2017.

"The decision to manufacture this new vehicle in Rennes shows that, when stakeholders are committed to working together to secure the future of a manufacturing plant, they can create the performance conditions necessary in a continuous efficiency improvement process," said PSA Group managing board chairman Carlos Tavares.


Bugatti unveils €33,000 ‘Baby' electric car for kids

                PARIS: Bugatti has announced the smallest member of the company lineup: the Bugatti Baby II.

To celebrate the company's 110th birthday, Bugatti revived the Bugatti "Baby", a miniature replica of the Type 35 racecar that originally launched in 1927.

Though the Bugatti Baby II is the smallest model in Bugatti's current profile, it's suitable for both adults and children despite the original being designed exclusively for youngsters.

In terms of powertrain, the Baby II is a BEV like the first generation; however, this iteration features removable lithium-ion battery packs, a limited slip differential, regenerative braking, and two power modes. The 1kW child mode has a top speed of 20kph while the 4kW adult mode has a top speed of 45kph that can be further increased by 10kph with an optional upgrade.

Furthermore, children (and some adults) will be riding the Bugatti Baby II in luxurious comfort on a leather seat surrounded by the company's signature aluminum dashboard and steering wheel as well as custom brand instruments.

The blue exterior (which is optional) has been completed with eight-spoke aluminum alloy wheels that are replicas of the set found on the full-size Type 35.

Like the original Bugatti Baby, only 500 of the Baby II models will be made. Production will begin in the fall of this year, and reservations for the tiny EV is opened now. For €30,000 (RM139,000), you could add the Baby II to your collection.


F8 Tributo: Ferrari raises curtain on most powerful V8 car to date

                MARANELLO: Ferrari's latest stunner is the F8 Tributo, which the company is hailing as the fastest-ever V8-powered sports car to wear the Prancing Horse badge.

Official photographs released ahead of the Geneva Car Show show the sleek replacement for the current 488 GTB in all its bright red glory.

The F8 Tributo is a rear-engined supercar which Ferrari is using to pay homage to its long heritage. The new model will be unveiled at the Geneva event.

Ferrari has not said what the F8 Tributo will cost to buy, but as with most exotic machinery, if you have to ask the price, you probably can't afford one.

The F8 Tributo comes with massive power on demand, thanks to a 3.9-litre, turbocharged engine which has been tweaked to turn out 720hp — more than any previous Ferrari V8. Dry weight has been cut by 40kg.

Wild performance is guaranteed and the F8 Tributo can leap from a standing start to 100kph in just 2.9 seconds. The 200kph benchmark comes up 5.8 seconds later before the supercar tops out at 340kph.

The V8 motor is a Ferrari stalwart that has taken the "Best Engine" accolade in the International Engine of the Year awards for three years running — in 2016, 2017 and 2018.

The styling is exquisite, with a shark front end and twin rounded rear lights as a nod to tradition. The state-of-the-art aerodynamic solutions are straight from the track.

The cabin evokes the classic Ferrari mid-engine Berlinettas of yore and includes a brand-new fascia around a 8.5-inch touchscreen. The seats feature red stripes, and there are new round vents and a fresh steering wheel.


BMW M5 x-Drive-n

                During its heydays, the Estoril Circuit outside Lisbon — with its wide and twisty track — allowed ample overtaking opportunities, making it among the favourites of race car drivers and motorsports fans.

In 1996, Canadian driver Jacques Villeneuve’s dramatic overtaking of Michael Schumacher on the outer side of the circuit’s final corner became the talk of Formula 1.

Even though his car was at a disadvantaged position compared with Schumacher’s, Villeneuve managed to pull off the foolhardy manoeuvre and went on to win the race, much to the spectators’ delight.

No longer part of the F1 calendar since 1997, the 4.18km circuit still hosts major motorsports events. The circuit has also became a favourite haunt for many car companies to conduct test drives and demonstrations of their newest creations, with BMW being the most recent with its blistering fast M5.

Though based on the current generation 5 Series, the new M5 comes with an internal code of F90 and gets tonnes of enhancements which results in performance that is many-fold beyond the regular 5.

Looking similar to the standard 5 Series, the M5 differs in having a new bumper with large air intake for better cooling, and M-designed wing mirrors, side skirts, rear apron, spoiler and quad exhaust pipes for a sportier appearance.

Another noticeable difference is the contoured roof made from carbon fibre-reinforced plastic to reduce weight without sacrificing strength. Inside, the M5 is as plush as any large luxury car with loads of leather and metallic trimmings.

The M5 also gets sports seats, digital instrument panel, head-up display and a large centre multi-information screen.

The leather steering wheel is meaty to hold and comes with paddle shifters and two red levers marked “M1” and “M2”, which allows transmission, steering assistance, wheel-drive modes and other settings to be customised as a group.

You can still change engine, steering and chassis settings individually via buttons on the centre console. Meanwhile, the gearshifter is a new design with a shorter lever that looked more hi-tech than that in the regular 5 Series.

Under the hood is the latest generation 4.4-litre V8 block that’s overhauled and souped up with new turbochargers, improved cooling and lubrication, and higher injection pressure of 350 bar.

BMW said this extreme pressure enabled shorter injection time and better fuel vaporisation for quicker engine response.

Output is raised to 600hp and 750Nm of torque compared with the earlier 4.4-litre turbo engine with 560hp and 680Nm of torque used in the outgoing F10 M5.

Putting all that new-found might onto the tarmac is an eight-speed Steptronic transmission with an M-tuned xDrive, the first all-wheel drive system for an M car.

Despite the all-wheel drive system, the new M5 is still 90kg lighter than the F10 M5, and this reduced heft helps to increase performance.

To maintain the feel of a rear wheel-drive car, the M xDrive is programmed to provide a power bias towards the rear wheels. More power will be sent to the front wheels if rear ones start to slip.

The car can also be set to run as rear wheel-drive only where the Active M Differential can adjust torque distribution between both rear wheels.

The M5 fires up with a throaty note, thanks to a flap-controlled exhaust system which can also make the sound softer.

Press the M Sound Control button and the car gets quieter, allowing the serene and luxury feel of the M5 to surface.

Step hard on the accelerator and the M5 surges forward furiously, filling the cabin with exhaust roar.

The M5 can rocket from 0 to 100kph in a supercar-quick 3.4 seconds and has an electronically limited top speed of 250kph.

READ MORE::
Details on 600hp BMW M5
CarSifu drove the previous BMW M5 in Seville
Local launch of previous RM890K  BMW M5 and Z4
Don't worry, the new M5 still drives like an M car, says BMW M boss
BMW M5 Competition Edition debuts with 600hp and 700Nm
BMW M5 won't leave you in a spin

The optional M Driver’s Package will unleash the M5 to hit 305kph.

Driving on the Estoril circuit on all-wheel drive mode with Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), the M5 was nimble and easily kept to its intended driving line even around the trickiest corners at high speed.

The M5’s minimal body roll and planted feel along with its precise steering nudged us to drive even faster.

Later with all-wheel drive Sport with M Dynamic Mode on, the excitement built up as we could get the M5 to go even faster with mild oversteering and rear wheels screeching around tight corners.

At this juncture, the M5 was still easy to control and a slight countersteer would get the tail back in line without hesitation.

Although 19-inch wheels with light M compound brakes are standard issue, our test units came with the optional 20-inch wheels shod in Pirelli P Zero tyres and carbon-ceramic brakes, which elevates handling and braking prowess.
 Menzel.
To get a taste of what the M5 in rear wheel-drive mode could do, I got a ride with talented BMW Works driver Nico Menzel who is just 20 years old.

He engaged the 2WD mode with DSC off and easily got the M5 to drift around corners with rear tyres screaming and smoking, showing that the new model has not lost the untamed side that purists crave.

We also managed to check out the M5’s ride comfort on Portuguese country roads, which we concluded was acceptable even with the suspension set to Sport Plus — the hardest setting.

The ride was firm without being too harsh and switching to Comfort would make it right for daily use.

The new M5 can pass off as a refined and luxury car for dignified everyday usability and yet be a muscle car for track days with maximum traction on tap.

Expect BMW Group Malaysia to bring the new M5 to our shores next year.

SPECIFICATIONS
BMW M5

Engine: 4,395cc, V8, M TwinTurbo and M TwinScroll with cross-bank exhaust manifold, high precision injection, Valvetronic and Double-Vanos camshaft shifting
Maximum power: 600hp from 5,600 to 6,700rpm
Maximum torque: 750Nm from 1,800 to 5,600rpm
Transmission: Eight-speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic, M xDrive intelligent all-wheel drive
Brakes: Front M compound brakes, vented, with six-piston fixed callipers, rear M compound brakes, vented, with single-piston floating callipers (Optional: M carbon ceramic type)
Tyres: Front 275/40 ZR19, rear 285/40 ZR19 (Optional: Front 275/35 R20, rear 285/35 R20)
Suspension (Front): Adaptive M suspension with double wishbone axle in lightweight aluminium construction, M-specific kinematics and elastokinematics, Variable Damper Control (VDC)
Suspension (Rear): Adaptive M suspension with five-link axle in lightweight aluminium construction, M-specific elastokinematics, Variable Damper Control (VDC)
Features: Airbags, Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), M Dynamic Mode (MDM), Cornering Brake Control (CBC), Dynamic Brake Control (DBC), Active M Differential, belt latch tensioner and belt force limiter, crash active front head restraints, crash sensors, tyre pressure indicator, electric power steering with M-specific Servotronic and variable sport ratio, Brake Energy Regeneration, Auto Start Stop function, Optimum Shift Indicator in manual shift mode, lithium-ion battery, map-regulated oil pump
Acceleration (0-100kph): 3.4 seconds
Acceleration (0-200kph): 11.1 seconds
Top speed: 250kph (electronically limited), 305kph (with optional M Driver’s Package)
Weight: 1,855kg
Fuel consumption (combined cycle) : 10.5l/100km
Fuel: RON98 (minimum RON91)
Price: 117,900 euros (RM567,300)


MAN showcases TGS 33.480 6x4 at inaugural JBTC Expo

                KUALA LUMPUR: MAN Truck and Bus Malaysia took part in the inaugural Johor Bus, Trucks and Components Expo (JBTC EXPO) 2016 organized by the Johor Sand and Granite Lorry Operators’ Association recently by showcasing its MAN TGS long-haul transport and logistics operations.

During the JBTC expo, held at EXPO Danga City Mall in Johor Baru, the company presented its TGS 33.480 6x4 heavy-duty distribution transporter and touted it as having exceptional performance and ergonomics over its competitors.

“Forward-thinking cost management is absolutely essential for transporters and we want to help our customers focus on reducing total cost of ownership. As the specialist among long-haul transport and distribution trucks, MAN TGS delivers high payload and achieves the best fuel consumption rate with its engine and exhaust gas technology, resulting in low operating costs”, said MAN Truck and Bus Malaysia managing director Hartmut Mueller.

The transporter ensures traction on off-road and inclines with its permanent all-wheel drive system and also has hill-climb braking system to prevent rolling back when driving up hills.

 (L-R): MAN Truck and Bus (M) Sdn Bhd sales & marketing general manager Dinesh Nair, Land public transport commission chairman Tan Sri Datuk Seri Syed Hamid bin Syed Jaafar Albar, Malaysia Tipper Lorry Operator’s Association president Chia Jee Onn .

The expo saw the coming together of a host of transportation and logistics industry players actively involved in the south Malaysia market, especially with the new and upcoming projects driven by Iskandar Malaysia in Johor and the Malacca Gateway.

A presentation was also held by MAN as part of its Road Safety Awareness campaign on how its range of assistance systems and technologies can help improve driving comfort, efficiency and safety for logistics operators.

“We see Johor as a very important location for MAN as it serves as the transit point for many of our logistics and transportation customers on the northern to southern route or those enroute to Singapore. With our service center strategically located at Johor Bahru, our customers can have easy access to maintenance or repair services, so that their trucks can be back on the road as soon as possible.

"In the unlikely event of a breakdown of their vehicle, they can also call our 24-hour emergency toll-free number at 1-800-228-626 and help will arrive immediately”, added Mueller.


Seven finalists vie for Europe's Car of the Year award

                PARIS: Among the seven fialists for the prestigious European "Car of the Year" award, which will be presented on Feb 28, 2022 are two French models, two South Korean entries, an updated American icon, as well as a sporty Spanish design and a Czech car.

These candidate vehicles are in the running to succeed the latest generation of Toyota Yaris, crowned "Car of the Year" in 2021.

The seven short-listed candidates up for the title are, in alphabetical order, the Cupra Born, the Ford Mustang Mach-E, the Hyundai Ioniq 5, the Kia EV6, the Peugeot 308, the Renault Mégane E-Tech and the Škoda Enyaq iV.

Before the Toyota Yaris won in 2021, the title was snapped up in 2020 by the Peugeot 208.

Every year since 1964, the "Car of the Year" organising committee awards the best model to go on sale over the last 12 months on the basis of criteria such as value for money, design, comfort, safety, on-board technology and environmental performance.

This year's jury is made up of 61 journalists from 23 European countries.

In the past, the award has coincided with the launch of the Geneva Motor Show, but next year's show has once again been cancelled due to the Covid-19 pandemic. The winner will be announced online at the "Car of the Year" website on Feb 28.


S. Korea steps up fight against pollution, says problem is 'social disaster'

File pic of a woman looking at a view of Seoul shrouded by fine dust during a polluted day on March 6.— Reuters
SEOUL: South Korea today ramped up its firepower as it battles pollution, passing a set of bills that designate the problem a ‘social disaster’ and which could unlock emergency funds to tackle the issue.

Pollution in Asia’s fourth-largest economy has been driven up by factors including coal-fired power generation and high vehicle emissions, sparking widespread concern among the public and weighing on President Moon Jae-in’s approval ratings.

Designating the issue a "disaster" allows the government to use parts of its reserve funds to help respond to any damage or emergency caused by polluted air. The country’s reserve funds stand at up to 3 trillion won (RM10.9bil) this year.

Other bills that were passed included mandating that every school classroom should have an air purifier and removing a limit on sales of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) vehicles, which typically produce less emissions than gasoline and diesel.

The latest bills follow previous steps to battle pollution such as capping operations at coal-fired power plants.

South Korea’s air quality was the worst among its peers in the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) as of 2017, according to data from the group. Its average annual exposure to fine particulate matter (PM) of less than 2.5 micrometres was 25.1 micrograms per cubic meter, slightly more than double the OECD average of 12.5.

The World Health Organisation recommends that air quality standard should be no more than 10 micrograms in terms of PM 2.5 levels.

For six consecutive days in early March, high levels of concentrated pollutants enveloped most parts of South Korea.

According to a weekly poll by Gallup Korea released on March 8, President Moon’s approval rating was down by 3 percentage points from a week earlier at 46 percent.

Unless any objections are raised, it should take around 15 days for the bills to become law.

The nation’s regional neighbor China has also been fighting pollution as it tries to reverse damage from over three decades of untrammeled economic growth.


Meet Motochimp

                SINGAPORE: A Singaporean company has introduced a compact electric motorcycle called Motochimp for urbanites

With a range of up to 60km, it's touted as ideal for zipping around the city and can be fast charged in one hour.

Launched at the Shenzhen International Industrial Design Fair this week, Motochimp goes on sale for US$2,000 (RM8,422) first in Japan, then the rest of Asia and Europe. It is available in red, blue or yellow.

Motochimp is the brainchild of Singaporean electrics experts, Vanda Electrics, the same company behind the upcoming new Dendrobium electric supercar.

Each Motochimp is compact measuring just over a metre long. A small wheelbase of 750mm, allows the rider to safely steer around crowds and busy walkways. Its main structure is made of extruded aluminum alloy for a smooth texture and clean finish.

Power comes from a 48V 350W electric rear hub motor, which accelerates the Motochimp to a cruising speed of 30kph. Motochimp uses a standard AC power plug that fits under the rider’s seat. Energy is stored in a lithium-ion battery.

Motochimp doesn't use a traditional key to start up. It comes with a contactless digital ignition lock, which uses RFID technology. The user simply hover the digital "key" over the transponder to start up the bike. Each pair has a unique digital ID code ensuring the Motochimp responds only to the owner.

A mini speedometer is located on the handlebars next to the throttle, featuring a bright and easy-to-read display interface.

Vanda Electrics CEO Larissa Tan said the bike was inspired by a sketch from a 10-year old girl.

"When you’re on the Motochimp, you put enchantment back into everyday life, you see fun and wonder through the eyes of a child. We’ve really let our imaginations run free and we’re very proud of the results.

“Motochimp is also all about accessibility. With a range of up to 60km from a 60min charge – and all from a standard plug socket – it won’t cost the earth to buy or run. At Vanda Electrics, we want to revolutionise electric transport on a global scale – and Motochimp is key to that, it’s the new face of city transport – bold, edgy, fun.”


China EV maker Wuling betting on cult status to sell a million cars

A Hongguang Mini in Liuzhou, China. — Bloomberg
LIUZHOU:  Since last July, a little-known automaker in China’s southwest has dominated the world’s largest electric car market, outselling bigger players and even Tesla Inc. almost every month with a tiny, bare-bones EV that starts at just US$4,500 (around RM19,000).

The Hongguang Mini is the brainchild of SAIC-GM-Wuling Automobile Co., a joint venture between SAIC Motor Corp. and Guangxi Automobile Group Co., two state-backed automakers, and US giant General Motors Co.

Based in the city of Liuzhou, known for its limestone mountains and river-snail soup, the company - which has sold some 270,000 of the cars within nine months, making it the best-selling EV in China - has even bigger ambitions for the future.

It’s aiming for annual sales of 1.2 million vehicles next year, almost equal to the number of EVs churned out by China’s carmakers in 2020 combined.

It’s an eyebrow-raising target, but even before the Hongguang Mini, Wuling had a track record for producing winners in a market that’s defining the new era of driving.

Set up in 2002, the Chinese-American JV built its business selling microvans: dependable sliding-door workhorses that earned the nickname "the bread box car" in Mandarin, and were China’s top-selling passenger vehicle in 2017.

Millions of them ply the country’s roads, used by contractors and delivery drivers alike.

The buyers of those gas-guzzling gray vans are almost exclusively male, which makes Wuling’s pivot to the Hongguang Mini - which has a top speed of 100kph and 12-inch wheels - all the more extraordinary.

Shortly after its debut last July, the automaker realised the vehicle was gaining a following among young women, a phenomenon it leaned into with an approach that bends conventional wisdom about how cars are sold.

“Our company’s mentality is to produce whatever people need,” Wuling’s head of branding and marketing, Zhang Yiqin, said in an interview. “We keep close tabs on our users. The hurdles to electric car adoption can only be cleared when consumers find using them a comfortable thing.”

Too cute for comfort

To that end, Zhang has staffed his team with employees who understand the Hongguang Mini’s customer base, which is now around two-thirds female.

At 35, he jokes he’s the elder statesman of the group whose age averages around 27. Slogans like "Young and Eager" are splashed across the walls of Wuling’s headquarters in Liuzhou, a city that’s embraced EVs alongside the company with 30% of all car sales electric last year, the highest rate in China, according to WAYS Information Technology.

Wuling’s success with the Hongguang Mini was driven by a targeted marketing campaign conducted almost entirely online, according to Zhang.

His team often communicate with consumers directly via various social media platforms, and it was a customer’s request for more hues that saw the company come up with Hongguang Mini’s latest iteration - the Macaron.

It comes in avocado green, lemon yellow and white peach pink, with an optional solid-colour roof for contrast, to mimic the vanilla butter cream that sandwiches the French meringue confections of the same name.

It’s also how they landed on one of the car’s key selling points - besides its rock-bottom price point: Hongguang Mini drivers are able to customise their vehicles in a way that’s not possible elsewhere.

Using “stickers,” the car’s panels and body can be transformed. Some sport the Nike swoosh, some have galaxy-like outer space scenes and others cartoon characters from Hello Kitty and Doraemon.

The original Hongguang Mini comes in around 20 different base colours, which can be switched up, and buyers can customise the interior as well.

Zorah Zhang (no relation) is a typical client. The 23-year-old is a fan of Hayao Miyazaki, the Japanese animator who directed My Neighbor Totoro, a fantasy film featuring a character called The Catbus, a grinning feline whose seats are covered in fur.

She’s pimped her Hongguang Mini to resemble it, spending around 15,000 yuan (RM9,700) to cover the car’s interior with brown velveteen and studding the roof with lights that sparkle at night.

“A lot of my friends have the Mini, you see them everywhere in Liuzhou,” said Zhang, who lives with her parents (they drive a BMW sedan).

“I love things that reflect my character. I may change the look of the car again if there’s other stuff I fancy.”

As frivolous as turning a set of wheels into a fashion accessory may seem, there’s a very real market up for grabs.

Outside of Liuzhou, EV penetration in China is still only around 6% and competition is fierce. Tesla may be the name that resonates loudest, particularly in larger cities like Beijing and Shanghai, where its first Gigafactory is located, but a host of newer, local entrants from Nio Inc. to Xpeng Inc., Li Auto Inc. and WM Motor are crowding in.

At the same time, other home-grown players like BYD Co., a carmaker long backed by Warren Buffett, are upping their EV game and international behemoths such as Volkswagen AG are plowing billions of dollars into new electric lineups.

With consumers in China overwhelmed by choice when fossil-fuel cars are added to the mix, automakers need to give motorists what they want to survive, said Jochen Siebert, managing director of consultancy JSC Automotive in Singapore.

“SAIC-GM-Wuling has to come up with new ideas all the time to attract consumers,” Siebert said.

The Hongguang Mini is “a kind of accessory, which means it’s a fashion item that might go out of fashion sooner or later.”

Priced to sell

For now, it’s a strategy that’s paying dividends for Wuling. The company, owned 50.1% by Shanghai-based SAIC, 44% by GM’s China unit and 5.9% by Guangxi Automobile, sold 1.6 million vehicles in total last year. While that was down about 4% from 2019 amid the pandemic, Wuling’s new-energy vehicle sales almost tripled to 174,000 units.

For GM - which is doubling down on electrification and autonomous driving under chief executive officer Mary Barra - the Hongguang Mini appears to have been a boon.

The carmaker saw revenue of US$9.9 billion from its China auto joint ventures in first-quarter results out last month, up from US$4.3 billion for the first three months of 2020.

GM, which has several other partnerships in China, doesn’t break out Wuling’s revenue in its financial results.

While customer engagement has distinguished the Hongguang Mini, cost has been main driver of its blockbuster sales in a country where many find the sticker price of a Tesla Model 3, which sells for the equivalent of US$39,300 (RM163,000), beyond reach. The basic Hongguang Mini starts at US$4,500, and even the new Macaron sells for under US$6,000 (RM25,000).

Wuling has been able to churn out cheap cars thanks in part to its good supply-chain management, honed with the super-popular microvans.

Many of Wuling’s suppliers have also set up manufacturing bases in Liuzhou, which has helped cap costs further. It’s a model that’s being replicated by car companies in other cities and provinces across China, flattering for Wuling but challenging too as the price of rivals’ cars come down.

The global shortage of semiconductors is also weighing on Wuling, with the Hongguang Mini, despite being a basic EV, still requiring over 100 chips. Hongguang Mini production has been impacted by the shortfall, with output of the Macaron expected to be down around 15% in May, according to Zhang.

The hefty sales target for 2022 is the cornerstone of Wuling’s plan to maintain its market-leading momentum.

After debuting a convertible Hongguang Mini at the Shanghai Auto Show in April, it’s aiming to release a mid-cycle enhancement of the vehicle later this year and is working on a two-seater EV targeted at younger men, Zhang said.

At a Wuling dealership in downtown Liuzhou, user-experience manager Li Zhengguang says there’s a four-person team focused solely on new media.

They communicate with would-be customers using Douyin, as TikTok is known in China, and Little Red Book, a trusted social shopping platform popular with young women, sharing photos and videos.

Li, who used to sell diamond engagement rings, says there’s not a lot of difference between jewelry and cars. Create desire for a cool product and buyers will come, he says.

Pitching the Hongguang Mini not as a cheap car but a coveted accessory in brand-conscious China is brilliant, JSC Automotive’s Siebert said.

“It’s become a hallmark of SAIC-GM-Wuling over the past 20 years to always surprise the market, and themselves,” he said.

“They’ve done extremely well because they focus on the right things. On quality, when they were mainly making microvans, and now on marketing.”


Hyundai Ioniq owners to enjoy exclusive discounts

                SHAH ALAM: Hyundai-Sime Darby Motors (HSDM) has unveiled exclusive service privileges for all Hyundai Ioniq hybrid owners with special discounts and a complimentary 20-point inspection.

From Oct 1 to Nov 30, owners who send in their Ioniq to any Hyundai authorised service centre will enjoy discounts of up to 25% on selected parts and 10% on labour charges.

The selected parts eligible for discounts include gaskets, oil filters, air filters and spark plugs among others.

HDSM managing director Low Yuan Lung said Ioniq owners are not forgotten although the company had stopped retailing the current model.

“We have a big customer base for the Ioniq and we would like to continue to show our appreciation to our customers by offering them this special service privilege.

“At the same time, we will also be able to help check on the condition of their cars. Unlike other Hyundai models, the Ioniq only requires service every 15,000km interval or once in every nine months, whichever comes first,” Low added.

Ioniq owners who are members of the Hyundai Loyalty Card will also enjoy exclusive monthly promotions, such as a 20% discount on KLIMA Fresh and BlueChem products.

Owners can sign up for this complimentary card at any authorised Hyundai Service Centre nationwide.

For details, contact Hyundai at tel: 1300-13-2000 or log on to www.hyundai.com.my.


Nissan Safety and Malaysia Day campaign

                PETALING JAYA: Edaran Tan Chong Motor Sdn Bhd (ETCM) organised its third series of the 2017 Nissan Safety Campaign alongside ETCM’s Nationwide Test Drive Carnival, to educate Malaysians with road safety knowledge through fun and creative activities at the following regions:

16 – 17 September, 10am – 8pm; ETCM Petaling Jaya, ETCM Butterworth, ETCM Kuantan, ETCM Johor Jaya, ETCM Kuching and ETCM Kota Kinabalu.

22 – 23 September, 10am – 8pm; ETCM Bintulu

23 – 24 September 10am – 8pm; ETCM Taiping, ETCM Semabok

A host of safety activities includes:

* Exclusive Safety Talk: conducted by Captain K. Balasupramaniam, founder of Road Safety Marshal Club. This workshop is only available in ETCM Johor Jaya 3S Centre

* Takata Airbag Inflator replacement: free replacement for affected Nissan vehicles

* Blind Parking Experience: enhance your parking skills through Nissan’s first 360° Intelligent Around View Monitor with Nissan X-Trail

* Impaired Vision Experience: experience and understand the potential dangers of vision impairment especially when due to lack of sleep or driving under the influence of alcohol

* Child Seat Presentation: a session that demonstrates the importance of a child seat, and its proper installation method in Nissan vehicles. This workshop is only available in ETCM Johor Jaya

* Kids Safety Games: a session for children to learn road signage for better safety

Members of the public who wish to attend may contact ETCM’s Customer Relations Department at +603-4047 8788 or send an email request to crd@tanchonggroup.com.

In conjunction with Malaysia Day celebration, Edaran Tan Chong Motor (ETCM) has kicked-off its “Malaysia Day” Campaign in the month of September 2017.

The campaign offers attractive deals on selected Nissan models with options comprising of Malaysia Day Savings of up to RM6,500 or Malaysia Day Promo Set with RM1.00 promotion for premium accessory package and rebates of up to RM4,500 (Terms and Conditions apply).


Sono Sion solar-connected electric car set to hit market in 2023

                FRANKFURT: Sono Motors is slowly nearing its goal of launching its first electric car on the market, with the no-frills, compact Sion due to hit the roads early in 2023 with solar power for extra range.

The Munich-based start-up was founded five years ago and the Bavarians are hoping the car will dispense with two problems that hamper e-mobility, namely high prices and a limited number of charging points.

The home-market price of the Sion starts at just €25,500 (RM127,000), thanks to its simple design, use of standardised components and no-frills approach.

Founders Laurin Hahn and Jona Christians even want to make it cheaper for car owners to get their vehicles repaired, by offering do-it-yourself videos online.

But it's the solar power that make the vehicle stand out, with almost 250 cells incorporated into the car's plastic body.

Sono Motors has calculated that they provide electricity for an average of 16km, even in only middling weather. Ideally though, when it's blazingly sunny, the car can cover 35km a day or 12,740km a year.

The car's electric motor output and battery capacity are kept in check, but with a 163hp motor, it can still reach a maximum speed of 140kph.

The car's battery capacity is 54kWh and the Bavarian makers say this affords it a range of up to 305km.

The Sion, which is only available in black, is 4.47 metres long and offers space for five people and 650 litres of luggage.


Proton X70 owners can get new N95 Cabin Filter at RM79

                SHAH ALAM: Current owners of the Proton X70 can upgrade their dust and pollen filter to the new N95 Cabin Filter for RM79, excluding labour charges.

The N95 filter will be fitted on new units of the 2020 X70 produced at Tanjung Malim, and is part of the new Proton Intelligent Air Purification System (P-IAPS).

The N95 filter can remove 95% of particles larger than 0.3 microns and also removes 98% of PM2.5 dust particulates.

Proton says it is an effective barrier against smoke particulates, dust, bacteria and other pollutants and functions in both fresh and recirculation modes for the air-conditioning system.

READ MORE: Proton announces improved X70 cabin filter

The P-IAPS combines both the new N95 filter and existing Air Purifier System, and acts as a barrier against contaminated air making its way into the cabin.

“For now, P-IAPS will only be offered on the X70 but our designers and engineers are working to fit the filter in our other models too,” said Proton CEO Dr Li Chunrong.

From May 13, service appointments can be made at https://www.proton.com/en/after-sales/service-booking or by contacting a Proton service outlet.

A service campaign is also scheduled to run from May 18 – Aug 18, where a 15% discount on the price of the filter will be offered to all  X70 owners.


Volvo hires BlackBerry veteran to turn its cars into iPhones on wheels

                LONDON: Automakers used to compete over who had the latest-and-greatest hardware on offer: the highest-horsepower engine, the comfiest seats, the silkiest-sounding speakers.

As manufacturers try to turn their vehicles into rolling smartphone-like devices, the race will revolve around the next big things in chips that upgrade infotainment and vision systems, as well as the car’s general controls.

"That is really the big change that’s happening in the industry,” Jim Rowan, a former top executive at BlackBerry and Dyson who started as CEO of Volvo Car last week, said Tuesday in an interview.

This is, of course, far from the first smartphone analogy used to describe the auto industry’s evolution.

Doug Field, the former head of Apple’s car project, made the comparison when he joined Ford last fall. Volkswagen’s Herbert Diess warns his staff against ending up like Nokia.

Rowan, 56, saw the upheaval up close, from the perspective of a major player on the wrong end of the disruption.

During his time at BlackBerry, the company more than quintupled revenue to over US$20 billion.

But by the time Rowan left in 2012, BlackBerry’s once-dominant brand and operating system had been soundly beaten by Apple’s iPhone and Google’s Android.

"Ostensibly, the product stayed the same,” Rowan said.

"You could make a phone call and you could share some data. But the transformation between a feature phone and smartphone, in a very short period of time, transformed the use of that device a thousand times.”

A phone was no longer just a phone. And the same is happening to the car.

"A vehicle is a vehicle, but what we’re going to do in the journey that we’re on is to make so much technology available in that vehicle that it massively expands the use of that next-generation mobility,” Rowan said.

"All the stuff that you can do in your smartphone will be almost inherently native within the vehicle.”

The bigger part of the electrification transformation would hinged on software and core compute, said Rowan.

"That technology will be harnessed to drive next-generation active safety systems - so Lidar, radar, cameras, and obviously the software stack that enables that. The actual software on the vehicle itself becomes a much bigger component of the value proposition."

Volvo would have to change the way it develops and deploys software.

"We’re going to have to be a lot more intelligent about the decisions we make around making versus buying software, and we’re going to need to understand software at a much more vestral level than before.

"That doesn’t mean that we need to do every single software stack, but we need to be able to control how we interact with suppliers and build that final product, that interface we’re looking for."

Rowan believes Volvo needs to also look at digitising its supply chain more.

"One thing that is clear is that we need to digitise our supply chain more. In the same ways we’re building that digital backbone to reach out to customers, we also need to build a highly sophisticated digital supply chain infrastructure.

"It’s not to say that we need to change the suppliers, but we need to be able to connect with them to get real-time data, to take that data and analyse it, write algorithms to run what-if scenarios, identify the fracture points and decide whether we need two sources on a particular component."


2016 Geneva Motor Show: Can other cars catch up with Qashqai?

                GENEVA: This year's Geneva Motor Show from March 3-13 will be notable for the number of production and concept cars aiming to compete with Nissan's trend-setting crossover.

Response to the Qashqai has been phenomenal. According to JATO Dynamics figures, Nissan sold 232,176 examples in Europe during 2015, making it the continent's seventh most popular car. What's more it helped crossovers and SUVs to overtake the hatchback as the European car of choice. SUVs of all shapes and sizes now account for 22.5% of the market.

"In 2015, this segment drove most of the growth," said Felipe Munoz, Global Automotive Analyst at JATO Dynamics. "More consumers moved away from the traditional segments and MPVs, towards SUVs and crossovers."

It's a trend that's expected to continue up until decade's end in the US as well as in Europe and will be one car companies will be lining up to join on March 1 when Geneva opens its doors to the motoring press.

In terms of direct challengers, Seat will be unveiling its first crossover, the Ateca, which aims to compete in terms of performance, style and the amount of equipment that will come as standard.

"We have put together an amazing package of technologies and innovations for the Ateca - delivering more safety and utility but, above all, the most dynamic driving experience possible," said Seat VP Dr Matthias Rabe.

SsangYong will be aiming for affordability and greener motoring with its crossover concept, the SIV-2. Though just a show car, it will be heading to showrooms within the next two years with the same cabin space as a Qashqai and a hybrid engine for fuel conservation.

In the sub-compact crossover category, competition is fiercer and is now focusing on the premium to stand out. Audi is using this year's event to take the wraps of the Q2, its baby SUV which will be a luxury challenger to the likes of the Nissan Juke, Mini All4 and Opel Mokka.

Not to be outdone, Opel is bringing the Mokka up to date with an ‘X' model at this year's show. Since going on sale in Europe in 2013, the car has clocked up 500,000 sales, and, to maintain this momentum, the new model is getting an injection of premium styling and interior equipment.

 Opel Mokka X.

However, the biggest single SUV reveal is one that is in the highest echelons of the market. After years of stalling, Maserati is finally ready to unveil the Levante. A model that promises to match the Porsche Cayenne in terms of performance and raise the bar in terms of style and luxury, it is potentially the most important car to come from the company in almost two decades.

 The Levante.