New Tata Motors commercial trucks introduced

                SHAH ALAM: India's largest commercial vehicle manufacturer Tata Motors, along with its authorised distributor DRB-Hicom Commercial Vehicles Sdn Bhd (DHCV), today launched the Tata Super Ace and the Ultra range of trucks in Malaysia.

Net selling prices are RM46,990 (Super Ace); RM86,990 (Ultra 814) and RM97,990 (Ultra 1014).

Tata Super Ace
The Tata Super Ace is a 1 ton mini-truck from Tata Motors, for inter-city and intra-city transportation solutions. Powered by a 1,405cc diesel engine, the Tata Super Ace is based on the popular Tata Ace mini-truck. Having sold over a million units since it was first launched in 2005, the Tata Ace has a footprint spanning 28 countries across South Asia, Africa and the Asean.

The Tata Super Ace can be customised for various small scale business operations, for the transportation of construction items, food grains, fruits, FMCG (fast moving consumer goods) and white goods or could be configured to be a food truck, an ice-cream truck or a mobile store on wheels.

Tata Ultra 814 and 1014 trucks
The Tata Ultra trucks are said to offer high levels of durability and reliability, driver comfort, high load carrying-capacity and safety.

The Ultra 814 and 1014 are powered by a new NG 3.0-litre CRDI engine, mated to a G550 6-speed manual transmission.

This powertrain produces 140ps at 2,600rpm and 390Nm of torque at 1,400 to 2,000rpm. Available with highest body option of 5.5-metre, the Tata Ultra provides customers flexibility for varying business requirements.

The Ultra 814 has a GVW (gross vehicle weight) of 7,500kg and payload of 3,600kg. As for the Ultra 1014, it has a GVW of 10,400kg and payload of 7,190kg.

"With these new products, which have superior features and are competitively priced, we are confident it will gain traction amongst our target users in the near term," said DRB-Hicom chief operating officer (automotive distribution, defence and manufacturing and engineering) Datuk Abdul Harith Abdullah.

DHCV has been importing, assembling and distributing foreign marques in Malaysia since 1979. Customers in Malaysia are served by a network of 24 outlets in major townships.


Proton says June was best sales month to date, 14,787 cars sold

                KUALA LUMPUR: Domestic car maker Proton recorded its best sales month for the year-to-date with 14,787 units (domestic and export) registered in June as it continued its efforts to resolve its parts shortage issues.

This represents a 51.0 per cent growth from the previous month and boosts total sales for the first half of the year (1H2022) to 60,124 units, an increase of 3.9 per cent over 1H2021.

Deputy chief executive officer Roslan Abdullah said the announcement on the removal of the sales and service tax incentives from July 1 resulted a surge in bookings as customers rushed to take advantage of the savings offered.

"Proton has received more than 150,000 bookings for the first six months of the year, when added to carry-over orders from 2021, we will need to work hard to deliver cars as quickly as possible to eager customers," he said in a statement today.

Overall, Proton retained its second position in terms of automotive sales in the country with an estimated market share of 22.6 per cent.

Its market share for the year now stands at 18.2 per cent, a decrease of 5.1 per cent compared to 1H2021.

Proton's total number of exports for 1H2022 stood at 2,722 units — an increase of 81.2 per cent year-on-year (y-o-y) — positioning the company as the top exporting automotive brand in the country.

The Saga model continues to lead the way with export sales totalling 1,602 units — an increase of 78 per cent y-o-y, while exports of X70 and X50 are growing at an accelerated pace at 377 and 100 units, respectively.

Both models posted their best-ever export numbers, with more to come for the remainder of the year, said Proton.

Proton noted that Pakistan continues to be the biggest export market at 1,770 units for 1H2022, a growth of 183 per cent compared to 1H2021, followed by Brunei and Bangladesh with 203 and 194 units, respectively.

"Proton’s exports are one of the pillars to drive our future growth and are also in line with our promise to the government to help develop Malaysia’s automotive export industry.

"With the addition of new markets such as South Africa to our portfolio, we expect the export volumes to continue the current growth trajectory and form an even larger portion of our sales in the future,” said Roslan.


Mazda honing MX-5 racer

                LOS ANGELES: Mazda rolled out a pair of engineering development models of the 2016 Mazda MX-5 Cup racecar for testing at Mazda Raceway earlier on Friday.

As a part of the development process, the cars will be tested in public on the first test day of all remaining race weekends during the 2015 MX-5 Cup season.

The challenge is complex as Mazda is evaluating seven tyre manufacturers, eight brake suppliers, and seven suspension kit partners for 392 base combinations. Using advanced analytics and simulations, Mazda Motorsports and engineering partner Long Road Racing will perform a great deal of the testing on the computer with ample real world testing to validate the computer model.

Mazda SKYACTIV prototype racer Tom Long, who has raced in, and won with, all three previous generation MX-5 Miatas, will lead the development of the car. Mazda racers Kenton Koch and Andrew Carbonell are assisting this week.

“The response from the industry has been amazing with a wide variety of companies approaching Mazda to become involved,” said John Doonan, director of motorsports, Mazda North American Operations.

“Our goal is to develop a car that is just as rewarding to drive for the expert as the novice. Tom Long has experience with racing every generation MX-5, and is enthusiastic about the latest car. Tom will work with our engineers and racers to develop the next generation MX-5 racecar to maintain our position as the most road-raced car in the world.”

"Testing the new MX-5 racer for the Global MX-5 Cup has been an incredible fit so far," said Long.

"The lightweight nimble chassis design, along with its increased power-to-weight ratio, makes this new platform balanced and a real thrill to drive. Taking the key elements that made the original MX-5 chassis so popular and successful, has come back to its roots in a reborn look."

Mazda Motorsports is scheduled to freeze the vehicle specifications and announce the price of the turnkey racecar later this summer.


New Volkswagen ID.7 features smart air conditioning

                WOLFSBURG: The upcoming ID.7 will be the first Volkswagen model with intelligent control of the vents in the cockpit, optionally for air distribution over a large area or with the air flow directed at specific areas of the body

Volkswagen said this is the first time it uses an air conditioning system that performs faster cooling or heating of the vehicle interior before the start of a journey.

Among other things, this is made possible by electronically controlled air vents that distribute the air throughout the vehicle interior as soon as the driver approaches with the key.

The new, smart automated air conditioning system also reacts to voice commands and takes into account the position of the sun as well as individual user preferences.

In the case of the sun's position, a sensor in the area of the windscreen detects the incident angle of the sunlight in conditions with high outside temperatures and high solar intensity.

If the sun is shining strongly onto one side of the vehicle, the ID.7 adapts the air conditioning to an even greater extent for the warmer zones: first towards the respective area of the vehicle interior, and then in a second step specifically towards the vehicle occupants.

The result is an increase in comfort with which the new electric saloon will set standards in its class.

Following the ID.3, ID.4, ID.5 and ID.6 (only in China) and the ID. Buzz, the ID.7 will be the sixth model of the all-electric ID. family. After the ID.4, it will be the second global vehicle from Volkswagen based on the modular electric drive matrix (MEB).

The world premiere of the ID.7 is scheduled for the second quarter of 2023. The market launch of the electric saloon in China and Europe is planned for this year. North America will follow in 2024.


MyEG to gain from vehicle plates e-bidding, says UOB Kay Hian

                KUALA LUMPUR: UOB Kay Hian Malaysia Research believes that MyEG Services stands to be the sole beneficiary of e-bidding for the vehicle registration number plates which can be seamlessly integrated into the existing road transport department e-portal which it manages.

It said on Wednesday based on its channel checks, “we understand that the pilot stage of the e-bidding services for vehicle plates could begin as early as next month with the actual roll-out of the services on January 2019”.

UOB Kay Hian Research said the newly-installed Transport Minister Anthony Loke had repealed the practice of allowing certain non-government organisations to sell special vehicle number plates, and announced the roll-out an electronic bidding system from January 2019.

“The winning of the e-bidding services for vehicle plates would dispel misgivings on its abilities to retain its key government concessions and thus imply that MyEG shows no signs of losing traction with the new government.

“While revenue from the said service is not major, it allows MyEG to leverage on such modest fee-based platforms to upsell commercial services within the same domain,” it said.


Decide how 'Night of the Living Arteon' ends

                KUALA LUMPUR: Volkswagen Passenger Cars Malaysia, the official distributor of the brand in Malaysia, has brought back the infamous urban legend of the Yellow Beetle along the Karak Highway.

For the uninformed, this urban legend talks of a driverless yellow Beetle (Volkswagen Kuning), that has been known to haunt certain stretches along the Karak Highway.

This time around, the company has a new clip that's been dubbed "Night of the living Arteon" and is a re-do from last year's "The Legend of the Yellow Beetle".

Instead of the "Volkswagen Kuning" and its air-cooled flat-four engine, the Arteon will be one to ply along the highway with its more modern powerplant and accoutrements.

The new clip has been released in the spirit of celebrating Haloween on Oct 31 and rather than watching how it ends, viewers get to choose how this tall-tale ends.

To do this, visit the company's official Instagram page and click to view the stories. Cast your votes there and help them decide how the story ends.


Delivery from July for bookings made in May, says Proton

                SUBANG JAYA: If you have booked a Proton car  from May 1, get ready to wait until July for the vehicle to be delivered.

Proton said today that it had to reach this decision following production delays caused by the global shortage of semi-conductors and raw materials.

At the same time, the Sales and Service Tax (SST) is expected to be reinstated on July 1 (unless the Government decides to extend exemption again).

Assuming SST exemption ends on June 30 as planned, Proton said it would have to issue a new price list in due course, once all factors including the reinstatement of SST have been calculated.

"We apologise to all who are affected by this issue and would like to reassure everyone that we will continue to focus on maximising vehicle production number to deliver vehicles as soon as possible," Proton said in a statement.


June fuel prices up 10 sen across the board

PETALING JAYA: Malaysia's fuel prices will go up at midnight, with a 10 sen hike across the board.An announcement on the Domestic Trade, Cooperative and Consumerism Ministry website said RON 95 petrol and diesel would be priced at RM2.05 a litre in June, up from RM1.95 in May.RON 97 fuel will cost RM2.35 per litre inclusive of the Goods and Service Tax, up from RM2.25 last month.When contacted, Minister Datuk Seri Hasan Malek confirmed the fuel price hike.This follows the Ministry's decision to set the market prices of petrol and diesel on a managed float, starting from Dec 1 last year.


BMW recalling 1 million vehicles in North America

                WASHINGTON: BMW AG said it is recalling about 1 million vehicles in North America for two separate issues involving fire risks and said it may expand the recalls to other countries.

One recall covers 670,000 2006-2011 US 3 Series vehicles to address a wiring issue for heating and air conditioning systems that may overheat and could increase the risk of a fire.

The second recall covers 740,000 US 2007-2011 vehicles with a valve heater that could rust and lead to a fire in rare cases. The recall includes some 128i vehicles, 3 Series, 5 Series and X3, X5 and Z4 vehicles.

BMW spokesman Michael Rebstock said the recalls overlap and cover about 1 million vehicles, nearly all in the United States and about 15,000 in Canada. He said the recalls may be expanded.

“We are examining whether it will be necessary in the future to widen this (recall) into other countries,” he said.

BMW said both recalls followed recent meetings with the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

In the heating and air conditioning recall, BMW told NHTSA it first got a report of an incident in 2008 involving heat- related damage to a 2006 3-Series sedan, but did not determine a root cause. The automaker continued to monitor additional field incidents in the following years.

In 2011, BMW made a quality improvement to the blower-regulator wiring harness. No injuries were reported between 2007 and 2014, but in 2015, BMW was made aware of three incidents in which there were allegations of injuries. In early September, BMW learned of another incident involving a 2011 BMW 3 Series vehicle.

Dealers will replace a wiring harness if necessary and potentially additional parts.

In the valve heater issue recall, BMW first received a report in 2009 of an incident in a 2007 X5 involving heat-related damage to the engine compartment, the company told NHTSA. It received other reports and continued to review the issue and inspect returned parts, but had no reports of injuries or crashes related to the issue. Dealers will replace the valve heater.


Great deals for Fiesta and Ecosport

                PETALING JAYA: Ford distributor Sime Darby Auto Connexion (SDAC) is offering attractive cash rebates of up to RM6,000 and low monthly repayments for selected Fiesta and EcoSport variants nationwide, from now through 30 April.

Customers who buy a Fiesta 1.5L Titanium will receive a cash rebate of up to RM6,000, while those who choose a Fiesta 1.5L Sport can enjoy a RM4,000 rebate.

Low monthly repayments from RM588 apply to both Fiesta variants.

Those who purchase the EcoSport 1.5L Titanium will receive a cash rebate of up to RM5,000, in addition to monthly repayments of RM718.

For extra peace of mind, customers who select any of these three variants will enjoy a manufacturer’s warranty of three years or 100,000km, plus an additional two years or 100,000km through SDAC’s Extended Warranty Programme at no extra cost.

“Providing a great ownership experience starts with offering a warm welcome, and this combination of rebates, low repayments and a free SDAC extended warranty is a great way to introduce new customers to the Ford family,” said SDAC managing director Syed Ahmad Muzri Syed Faiz.

For details, visit the website or call Ford’s Customer Service hotline at 1800 38 3181.


Tesla to furlough workers, cut employee salaries

                SAN FRANCISCO: Tesla Inc told employees on Tuesday it would furlough all non-essential workers and implement salary cuts during a shut down of its US production facilities because of the coronavirus outbreak.

Tesla said it planned to resume normal operations on May 4, barring any significant changes, according to an email sent to US employees by in-house counsel Valerie Capers Workman, which was viewed by Reuters.

The company, which suspended production at its San Francisco Bay Area vehicle and New York solar roof tile factories on March 24, said in the email the decisions were part of a broader effort to manage costs and achieve long-term plans.

Tesla did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

The coronavirus pandemic has slashed US demand for cars and forced several other automakers to furlough US workers.

Pay for salaried Tesla employees will be reduced beginning on April 13 and cuts will remain in place until the end of the second quarter, the email said.

In the United States, workers’ pay will be cut by 10%, directors’ salaries by 20% and vice presidents’ salaries by 30%. Comparable reductions will be implemented abroad.

Employees who cannot work from home and have not been assigned to critical work onsite factories will be furloughed, with workers maintaining their healthcare benefits until production resumes, the email said.

Tesla suspended production at both factories last month after it ended a standoff with authorities concerned about the spread of the coronavirus.

Tesla’s sole US auto factory employs more than 10,000 workers, with annualised production of slightly more than 415,000 units by the end of December 2019.

The suspension interrupts a planned ramp-up in production of its Model Y sport utility vehicle at the factory.

Demand for the Model Y is expected to be higher than for all of Tesla’s other models combined, chief executive Elon Musk has said in the past. The Model Y taps into strong demand for SUVs and is much less expensive than the high-end Model X.

Tesla on March 20 said it believed it had enough liquidity to successfully navigate the extended period of uncertainty, with some US$6.3 billion in cash at the end of the third quarter, ahead of a recent US$2.3 billion capital raise.

The company on Thursday surprised investors with strong first quarter delivery numbers despite the coronavirus outbreak hammering nationwide car sales and said Model Y production was ahead of schedule.


WATCH: Kia Stinger joins EV6 GT for last hurrah

                SEOUL: We have known for some time that Kia is ending production of the Stinger this year, and a tribute edition is a way to end it all.

Limited to just 1,000 examples worldwide, the Stinger Tribute Edition pays homage to Kia’s high-performance vision, and celebrates the Stinger sedan’s significant contribution to the brand since its introduction in 2017.

What fills in the vacuum is the EV6 electric car.

To mark the succession, Kia has posted a video on YouTube showing the two cars in GT grade having a "conversation" followed by a track race as a way to bid farewell to one car and welcome another that represents the future of the brand.

It's quite a touching moment, you will see.


Vin Diesel confident 'Furious 7' will win Best Picture at Oscars

                LOS ANGELES: Universal's "Furious 7" is expected to set box office records when it opens on April 3, with fans eager to flock to multiplexes to bid farewell to Paul Walker.

But the film's star and producer, Vin Diesel, predicts that "Furious 7's" success won't be limited to the number of tickets it sells. He says the film will also sweep a certain 2016 awards ceremony.

"Universal is going to have the biggest movie in history with this movie," Diesel said in a lengthy interview with Variety for this week's cover story.

"It will probably win best picture at the Oscars, unless the Oscars don't want to be relevant ever." Diesel took a breath, before offering his prediction for a second time.

"This will win best picture," Diesel said.

"There is nothing that will ever come close to the power of this thing."

WATCH: The shooting of Abu Dhabi segment, Furious 7

Diesel said he was very pleased with the final movie, which pays tribute to Walker, who died as a passenger in a sports car accident in November 2013 in the middle of production.

The studio then had to scramble to rewrite the film's ending, and used special effects to finish Walker's performance with the help of stand-ins.

"We were successful in one-upping the action sequences, and adding an interesting dynamic to the world," Diesel said.

"But what the world won't anticipate is how emotionally powerful the movie is."

The head of the studio, Ron Meyer, often said when 'Fast 5' or 'Fast 6' came out, 'If there was no number attached to these movies, they would be contenders for best picture.'

And when people see 'Furious 7,' they are going to agree."

"Furious 7," the latest chapter in the most successful franchise in the history of Universal Pictures (at US$2.4 billion), debuted at SXSW last week, where it earned glowing reviews.

The film currently stands at a 85 fresh on Rotten Tomatoes. But "Furious 7" would be an unusual Oscars winner, as the Academy has yet to bestow a single best picture nomination on franchise events like "The Hunger Games," "Harry Potter," "The Dark Knight" or the previous six "Fast and Furious" films.

In recent years, more often than not, the best picture prize has gone to smaller indies like "Birdman," "12 Years a Slave," "The Artist" and "The Hurt Locker."

Then again, "Furious 7" opens at a time where the Academy is under scrutiny after this year's disastrous telecast, which saw viewership decline by 16 percent with host Neil Patrick Harris.

Board members are expected to meet in the coming days to talk about whether to narrow the best picture field back to only five nominees, instead of the current structure (which allows for up to 10).

Maybe Diesel is on to something, after all.

Or maybe not: when told about the prediction, a Universal executive chuckled and then asked to go off the record.


Renault and Geely clinch deal for internal-combustion joint venture

                BEIJING: Renault SA and China's Geely said today they have agreed to launch a new, equally held joint venture that will supply gasoline engines and hybrid technology to the brands they own as well as to other automakers.

The agreement represents an important benchmark in a months-long effort by the French automaker to carve out its gasoline car business as a separate company.

The joint venture will employ 19,000 people at 17 powertrain factories and three research and development hubs, the companies said, adding they expect to reach a final agreement and launch the new company in 2023.

The preliminary agreement with Geely, with which Renault has been negotiating in earnest for at least three months, is non-binding, a person with knowledge of the terms told Reuters.

The new company will be based in London, said the person, who was not authorised to speak to media and declined to be identified. Renault and Geely will each hold 50%, the companies said in a statement that did not detail other financial terms.

For Geely, the deal extends its pattern of building partnerships to expand beyond China. Geely also owns Volvo Cars and has a 9.7% stake in Daimler AG.

Renault has also been in negotiations with its existing alliance partner, Nissan Motor Co, about new investment in an electric vehicle venture it also plans to establish.

The Japanese automaker has said it is considering an investment in that venture which has been code-named Ampere.

Nissan has raised concerns about the treatment of intellectual property, including battery and powertrain technology, in its talks with Renault and has indicated those concerns extend to any partnership the French automaker strikes with Geely, people with knowledge of the discussions have said.

Renault and Geely said they expect their new joint venture would supply internal combustion engines and hybrid powertrains to Nissan and the junior partner in Renault's existing alliance, Mitsubishi Motors.

They said it would have the capacity to supply about 5 million engines and hybrid systems per year once operational.

Nissan had no immediate comment.

The announcement came ahead of Renault's capital markets day today in Paris where chief executive Luca de Meo is scheduled to update investors on the company's strategy and financial projections.

Renault's De Meo has said the automaker was seeking a partner that would bring scale and drive down cost in its internal combustion business, including hybrids.

Renault and Geely Automobile also have an existing joint venture in South Korea.

Separately, Volvo Cars said it would divest its 33% stake in its Aurobay unit to Geely, without disclosing terms.


Volvo models across Europe to warn each other of slippery roads and hazards

                GOTHENBURG: Volvo Cars is making its groundbreaking, industry-first connected safety technology available across Europe as another step in its ambitions to improve traffic safety.

The technology allows Volvo cars to communicate with each other and alert drivers of nearby slippery road conditions and hazards via a cloud-based network.

Hazard Light Alert and Slippery Road Alert were first introduced in 2016 on Volvo’s 90 Series cars in Sweden and Norway. Next week the features become available to Volvo drivers across Europe.

They come as standard on all new model year 2020 Volvos and can be retrofitted on selected earlier models (Hazard Light Alert and Slippery Road Alert is available on all Volvos based on the company’s Scalable Product Architecture or Compact Modular Architecture from model year 2016).

 Ekholm says sharing real-time safety data between cars can help avoid accidents.

“Sharing real-time safety data between cars can help avoid accidents,” said Malin Ekholm, head of Volvo Cars Safety Centre. “Volvo owners directly contribute to making roads safer for other drivers that enable the feature, while they also benefit from early warnings to potentially dangerous conditions ahead.”

Safety research by Volvo shows that adjusting speeds to the actual traffic situation can radically reduce the risk for accidents. By alerting people to dangers ahead in a timely manner and allowing them to adapt with time to spare, connected safety technologies can support better driver behaviour and boost traffic safety.

With the launch of these features across Europe, Volvo Cars also reiterates its invitation to the car industry to join it in sharing anonymised data related to traffic safety across car brands.

Sharing such data in real time can provide a strong boost to overall traffic safety and becomes more influential the more cars are connected. Since last year, Volvo Cars and Volvo Trucks have shared data to alert drivers of nearby hazards in Sweden and Norway.

“The more vehicles we have sharing safety data in real time, the safer our roads become. We hope to establish more collaborations with partners who share our commitment to safety,” said Ekholm.

On introduction, Volvo Cars’ systems were the first of their kind in the automotive industry. As soon as any equipped Volvo switches on its hazard lights, the Hazard Light Alert sends a signal to all nearby Volvo cars connected to the cloud service, warning drivers to help avoid potential accidents. This is particularly useful on blind corners and over the crest of hills in the road.

Meanwhile, Slippery Road Alert increases the driver's awareness of both current road conditions and those on the road ahead, by anonymously collecting road surface information from cars further ahead on the road and warning drivers approaching a slippery road section in advance.

Last month Volvo Cars made a number of announcements aimed at supporting better driver behaviour and safer driving.

From 2020, all Volvos will be speed-limited at 180kph. Starting in the early 2020s, the company will also install in-car cameras and other sensors that monitor the driver and allow the car to intervene if a clearly intoxicated or distracted driver is risking an accident involving serious injury or death.

Finally, the company announced that for the first time, it is making its safety knowledge easily accessible in a central digital library, which it urges the car industry to use in the interest of safer roads for all.


VW premieres sound system controlled by holographic panel on Golf GTI Aurora

                GRAZ: Volkswagen's Golf GTI Aurora showcar that made its world premiere in Austria last week features a completely operational, hologram-controlled sound system in what the brand claims is a world first.

The trunk of the Golf GTI Aurora concept introduced at the annual Worthesee event near here isn't your average luggage compartment. When you lift up the trunk door, you're met with a hologram.

You'll find it floating comfortably above a black screen integrated into the floor of the compartment displaying controls for a high-end sound system.

Unlike with 3D movies – which require audience members to wear a pair of specialised glasses for images to pop out of the screen – the hologram created by the show car requires no additional equipment for viewing.

The technology "automatically recognises the user's operating requirements and implements them – making it intuitive and logical to operate."

Music controls, volume, and playlists can be selected just by poking the air. Because users "see and live in three dimensions ... they know how to handle the projected 3D control elements."

While this premiere proves that holograms are no longer reserved for cinematic universes like that of Star Wars, the head of Development at VW Group Components Mark Möller admitted that implementing such technology into production vehicles is still a way off.


2019 CarSifu Editors’ Choice Awards: Big wins for Proton, Toyota and Volvo

Joy is winning the top 3 CarSifu awards. The trio are (from left) Proton senior director of corporate strategy Yusri Yusof (X70), UMW Toyota Motor general manager of marketing Richi Lim (Camry) and Volvo Car Malaysia managing director Nalin Jain (XC40).
KUALA LUMPUR: The fourth edition of the CarSifu Editors’ Choice Awards saw national automaker Proton, Toyota and Volvo emerging as the big winners.

This year's awards saw a major change with the replacement of a single "Car of the Year" winner by three "Car of the Year" winners based on geographic origins (namely Local, Asian and Continental Car of the Year).

American brands are in the Continental sector for the purpose of these awards.

 CarSifu award winners posing on stage at the end of the awards event last night.

The Local Car of the Year was won by the Proton X70 Premium which also took the title of Best Large-size SUV/Crossover (2-Row seating).

Priced at RM123,800 without insurance, this top-grade Proton X70 impressed award judges with value, styling, and convenience features as well as high-tech safety features.

Proton also won three other awards with the Iriz Premium named as Best Compact Hatch (below RM70,000), the Saga Premium winning Best Compact Sedan (below RM70,000) and the Exora Premium winning the Best Family Ride (RM50,000 to RM100,000,3-Row Seating).

Meanwhile, the Asian Car of the Year went to the Toyota Camry 2.5V which also won Best Large-size Car.

Award judges were impressed by the eighth-generation Camry 2.5V which is priced not far from the RM200,000 mark and delivers outstandingly on luxury with an upmarket and roomy leather-clad interior, as well as tranquil and buttery smooth drive quality.

Toyota also won another award with the Yaris hatchback taking Best Compact Car (above RM70,000).

The Continental Car of the Year went to the Volvo XC40 T5 which also won Best Compact Luxury SUV/Crossover.

It is the Swedish brand's smallest sports utility vehicle and crafted with an appealing design, competent performance and high utility.

Volvo also won another award with the S90 T5 winning Best Mid-size Luxury Executive Car.

Held at Hotel Istana, Kuala Lumpur, yesterday, the awards, organised by Star Media Group and StarCarSifu, honour outstanding cars for advancements and innovations in areas such as design, features and green technology.

Included in the judging criteria are key areas such as safety, performance, comfort, fuel economy, handling, styling as well as their individual “wow” factor.

READ MORE: 2019 CarSifu awards: Why cars won

Also present were heads and representatives of car companies, Malaysian Automotive Association president Datuk Aishah Ahmad, Toyo Tyre Sales and Marketing Malaysia president and managing director Tan Song Chye, Star Media Group group chief executive officer Andreas Vogiatzakis, chief business officer Lydia Wang and executive content officer Brian Martin.

Vogiatzakis said while car buyers are still mesmerised by looks and performance, factors such as efficiency, value and environmental concerns are becoming increasingly important.

"It is heartening to see automotive companies being able to anticipate and act on these changing consumer patterns," he said.

 Vogiatzakis and Aishah enjoying the party atmosphere.

For the awards, a total of 61 vehicles representing 25 automotive brands, were nominated across 33 categories.

Nominated cars are those launched in Malaysia between Oct 1, last year and Aug 31.

The nominees are from diverse brands namely Aston Martin, BMW, Citroen, DS, Ferrari, Ford, Hyundai, Honda, Jaguar, Kia, Land Rover, Lexus, Mazda, Mercedes-Benz, MINI, Mitsubishi, Nissan, Perodua, Peugeot, Porsche, Proton, Renault, Subaru, Toyota and Volvo.

Carlsberg was the official beer sponsor at the CarSifu Editors' Choice Awards 2019, while the official tyre was represented by Toyo Tires and Silverstone.

 Vogiatzakis thanking Toyo Tyre Sales and Marketing Malaysia's chief Tan for supporting the awards show.


Petronas’ Mesra card members to get free one-month PA coverage

                KUALA LUMPUR: Come May 1, all Petronas’ Mesra card members will automatically get one-month free Mesra Personal Accident (PA) benefit – an exclusive offering through Petronas Dagangan Berhad (PDB)’s collaboration with Shieldcard Holdings Sdn Bhd and Zurich General Insurance Malaysia Berhad (ZGIMB), making this the first of such offering by a retail fuel company in Malaysia.

The worldwide 24/7 protection, being offered in both conventional and Takaful options, provides the member Accidental Hospital Income of RM50 per day, for a maximum of 30 days per insured event.

In the event of an unfortunate death or permanent disablement of the Mesra card member in an accident, the family or next-of-kin of the member, will be entitled to a cash payment of up to RM25,000 (increased to RM50,000 if the insured event occurs on a public holiday gazetted by the Government).

“Due to overwhelming response from our customers since launching the initiative in February this year, we have decided to open up the one-month complimentary offer to all our existing and new Mesra card members,” said PDB’s Head of Retail Business Division Aadrin Azly.

“When we asked around, we realise that there are many who are not insured, under-insured or assumed they are insured. Safe to say, many still overlooked the necessity of insurance and through this offer, we hope that our customers will take this opportunity to get themselves covered as it is a mere RM1 per month,” he added.

All Mesra card members will be receiving an SMS or email from Petronas informing them of this free PA benefit. Members who wish to continue to enjoy the PA benefit for the following months will have to spend a minimum RM100 each month and subscription for the PA benefit will cost only RM1 whereby 100 Mesra Points will be deducted from Mesra Card members’ account.

Additionally, by registering for the Mesra PA Plan, Mesra card members are automatically enrolled for the AXXESS programme, where AXXESSpoints can be earned at participating merchants nationwide.

“Mesra card members are able to use the earned AXXESSpoints to reduce or pay in full, members’ annual motor insurance premiums, in addition to obtaining free private healthcare benefits,” said Shieldcard executive chairman Tunku Naquiyuddin Ibni Tuanku Ja’afar. The programme is structured to leverage on individuals everyday spending habits, to provide healthcare and other protection benefits, he added.

The PA Benefit is part of the Mesra Loyalty Programme.


eFuels pilot plant in Chile officially opens

                SANTIAGO: Porsche and international partners working with the Chilean operating company Highly Innovative Fuels (HIF) have started the industrial production of synthetic fuels.

The "Haru Oni" pilot plant in Punta Arenas officially opened on Dec 20.

Porsche executive board members Barbara Frenkel and Michael Steiner performed the ceremonial fuelling of a Porsche 911 with the first synthetic fuel produced at the site.

eFuels made from water and carbon dioxide using wind energy enable the nearly CO2-neutral operation of petrol engines.

“Porsche is committed to a double-e path: e-mobility and eFuels as a complementary technology. Using eFuels reduces CO2 emissions. Looking at the entire traffic sector, the industrial production of synthetic fuels should keep being pushed forward worldwide. With the eFuels pilot plant, Porsche is playing a leading role in this development,” said Frenkel.

“The potential of eFuels is huge. There are currently more than 1.3 billion vehicles with combustion engines worldwide. Many of these will be on the roads for decades to come, and eFuels offer the owners of existing cars a nearly carbon-neutral alternative. As the manufacturer of high-performance, efficient engines, Porsche has a wide range of know-how in the field of fuels,” said Steiner.

In the pilot phase, eFuel production of around 130,000 litres per year is planned. Initially the fuel is to be used in lighthouse projects such as the Porsche Mobil 1 Supercup and at Porsche Experience Centers.

After the pilot phase, the first scaling will take the project in Chile up to a projected 55 million litres per year by the middle of the decade.

Around two years later, the capacity is expected to be 550 million litres.

The south of Chile offers ideal conditions for the production of eFuels, with the wind blowing for around 270 days a year and enabling the wind turbines to operate at full capacity.

Punta Arenas is also located close to the Strait of Magellan. From the port of Cabo Negro, the synthetic eFuel can be transported just like traditional fuels all over the world, and be distributed using the existing infrastructure.

Porsche is working towards a CO2-neutral balance sheet across the entire value chain by 2030.

This also includes a CO2-neutral usage phase for future all-electric models. Synthetic fuels supplement electromobility and are part of the sports car manufacturer’s sustainability strategy.

Porsche has already invested over US$100 million in the development and production of eFuels.

The sports car manufacturer has invested US$75 million in HIF Global LLC in April 2022. This company plans, builds and operates eFuel plants in Chile, USA and Australia.


SSC’s Tuatara is now the world's fastest car

                NEW YORK: The world has a new fastest car.

On Oct 10, the reptilian SSC Tuatara hypercar posted an average speed of 508.73kph (316.11mph) while driving on a 11.27km stretch of two-lane Highway 160 outside Las Vegas.

The result beat, by a large margin, two high marks set last year by Bugatti’s pre-production Chiron prototype (490.48kph) and one that the Koenigsegg Agera RS set for production cars in 2017 (447.19kph).

Oliver Webb, the 29-year-old Englishman who drove the Tuatara, hit 484.53kph on his first run and 532.93kph on his second run in the opposite direction.

The average of those times will count as the official fastest time. The record-breaking event was verified by two witnesses sanctioned by Guinness World Records.

In an email about the record-setting run, company founder Jerod Shelby characterised it as a David vs. Goliath-style victory.

“People may look at SSC and ask if we belong in the hypercar realm, with such stalwart competitors,” he said.

“This record is so extremely sweet, knowing that our small organisation just achieved something that much more established brands, with much larger engineering and development teams, and obviously larger budgets, have not been able to achieve.

“This success tastes even sweeter, taking the news of this victory back to our home state of Washington, where we'd only dreamed of this when we'd started this company in a garage.”

SSC is among the most obscure automakers in the world.

Formed in 1998 and counting just 24 employees, the privately held company was formerly called Shelby SuperCars Inc., which inspired its current name.

A trained engineer who co-founded a medical device company in the early 1990s, Jerod Shelby is not related to automotive entrepreneur Carroll Shelby, who was featured in 2019’s Ford v Ferrari film.

Unlike such other record-attempting companies as Bugatti, Koenigsegg, and Lamborghini, which draw on deep production runs, deep histories, and deep pockets, SSC boasts no large, supportive automotive group and claims minuscule production volumes. Only 100 of the Tuatara will ever be made—at a rate of roughly 20 per year.

The small footprint of its brand is an asset, said Shelby: Through the design and development phase of the Tuatara, SSC employees were able to make decisions and pivot in real time whenever testing results required design changes.

Larger organisations can get caught up in weeks and months of bureaucratic manoeuvres just making a simple design decision.

“Many times, where we have observed something during real world testing of a Tuatara that would require a design change to a component or assembly to achieve higher performance, we have literally assembled the design and development team, made a decision, and had newly designed components on a machine being fabricated within hours,” said Shelby via email. “We had new, completed parts out on the road being tested on the car by the next day.”

Named after a lizard native to New Zealand and designed by Jason Castriota, who has designed for Pininfarina, the Tuatara looks like a curvier version of its reptile namesake: It has a low, pointed front with angled headlights that look like eyes; a single windshield wiper that evokes the animal Tuatara’s third eye; and a rear with air vents that look like gills.

Underneath the bonnet, it boasts a 5.9-litre, twin-turbocharged V8 engine that gets 1,750hp on E85 and 1,350hp on 91 octane. It comes with a seven-speed transmission and weighs just over 1.2 tonnes. It took 10 years—and multimillions of dollars—to fully develop the car, Shelby says.

A prior SSC car once held the world’s-fastest title: In 2007, Guinness World Records certified the SSC Ultimate Aero as the world's fastest production car after it averaged a top speed of 412.28kph over two runs in opposite directions.

“With better conditions, I know we could have gone faster,” says Webb.

“It’s all just beginning to sink in,” says the Manchester-born Webb via phone from England.

When not setting world records in Nevada, he drives in such endurance races as 24 Hours of Le Mans and the FIA World Endurance Championship.

“To go quick, in a straight line, it’s all mental training, not physical. I ate fast-food all week. If you prepare the car correctly, it’s mainly meditative breathing and staying very calm and staying steady — it’s afterwards when the gravity of what you’ve done hits home.”

Now, Webb says, “For anyone who knows the physics of what is possible, and how incredible it is to do something like this, it’s a [Neil] Armstrong moment.”

Halo benefit remains

SSC can’t claim the “halo effect” that involves one car’s success creating hype that brings attention to a brand’s other products—a prime reason for these speed tests, but breaking the record will bring benefits.

Bugatti’s speed feat was set on a pre-production prototype, while SSC fans know they can buy a car exactly like the Tuatara that hit top speed.

The record was set on a customer car with neither special modifications nor exemptions, right down to the standard carbon fibre seat inside and no additional roll cage. The car used Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2s — the standard customer tyres.

“Now that we have this first record, there’s no arguing that we're dealing in the same currency as our hypercar competitors,” Shelby said. “Performance, not history, is our pedigree.”

New models, however, may be coming. For three years, Shelby has been planning a “little brother” to the Tuatara, a scaled-down version produced in higher volumes and at a lower price point.

“It will carry a very similar DNA to the Tuatara but would be naturally aspirated and have horsepower in the 700-800hp range,” Shelby said, estimating a price tag of US$400,000 to US$500,000. “The Tuatara’s little brother will enable more people to own a car that looks and sounds like its world-record-toting big brother.”

Better yet, “little bro” will come at a fraction of the price. The Tuatara starts at US$1.9 million. The first production run of 12 units for 2021 has already been sold.

In order to qualify for a record title, the car must be a production vehicle identical to the same vehicle a customer might buy.

It must drive the same route in opposite directions on a public road, and the two speeds are then averaged. It must be tracked by a certified GPS measurement system, with two world record-sanctioned witnesses on site for verification. Finally, it must complete the run on street tyres, using non-race fuel.


Updated Lexus ES and RX arrive

                PETALING JAYA: The refreshed Lexus ES250 sedan and Lexus RX300 SUV have been launched, featuring design tweaks and improved comfort and safety.

The Lexus ES250 is available in two variants: Premium (RM299,888) and Luxury (RM332,888) while the RX300 comes in three variants: Premium (RM399,888); Luxury (RM424,888) and F Sport (RM439,888).

All prices are on-the-road without insurance.

Lexus ES

Adopting the theme of Provocative Elegance, the new generation ES features a rearward sloping roofline for that coupe-like silhouette.

It's also a bigger car than its predecessor as it is now 66mm longer and 46mm wider and increased leg room with a wheelbase which is now 51mm longer.

Under the bonnet is a 2.5-litre in-line 4-cylinder petrol engine (A25A-FKS), which produces a total of 204hp at 6,600rpm and maximum torque of 247Nm at 5,000rpm.

A new 8-speed Direct Shift Automatic Transmission featuring AI (Artificial Intelligence) Shift Control coupled with a VVT-iE (Variable Valve Timing – Intelligent by Electric Motor) promises effortless acceleration and efficiency.

In terms of safety, the ES features the Safety System + (LSS+), which boasts an advanced package of active safety technologies such as Lane Tracing Assist (LTA), Lane Departure Alert (LDA), Pre-Collision System (PCS) and Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC) with Stop and Go function and Blind Spot Monitor. It also comes with 10 airbags.

The Luxury variant features include a 10-way powered front seat, powered reclining rear seats, three-zone climate control, head-up display, 12.3-inch centre screen with navigation, panoramic view monitor, hands-free powered boot and a Qi wireless charger.

The Premium variant comes with powered front seats, wood trim, an eight-inch centre screen, seven-inch digital instrument panel, sunroof, Drive Mode Select (Normal, Eco, Sport), keyless entry with push start, dual-zone climate control and a 10-speaker audio system.

The ES250 is available in seven paint colours: Sonic Quartz, Red Mica Crystal Shine, Graphite Black Glass Flake, Sonic Titanium, Platinum Silver Metallic, Deep Blue Mica.

You also have the choice of two interior colours - Black or Topaz Brown.
Lexus RX

The new RX has been refreshed with a new design that retains the aggressive stance and emphasizing its elegant lines.

Most noticeable is the front fascia of the RX with slimmer LED headlamps and LED daytime running lights (DRLs). The front and rear bumpers are also new.

All variants are all-wheel drive and is powered by a 2.0 litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine, producing 235hp from 4,800rpm to 5,600rpm and 350Nm of torque from 1,650rpm to 4,000rpm. It is mated to a six-speed automatic transmission.

The interior now has the addition of a 12.3-inch display screen on the dashboard of all variants except for the Premium which has an eight-inch unit instead. All variants get the Lexus Premium Audio infotainment system as well as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Standard safety equipment for all variants includes the Lexus Safety System+ such as Pre-Collision System with Front Pre-Collision System (PCS), Dynamic Radar Cruise Control (DRCC), Lane Keeping System and Adaptive High-Beam System (AHS).

Other standard features include 10 airbags, rear view camera, Stability Control (VSC), traction control, Anti-lock Barking System (ABS), Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD), hill start assist, blind spot monitor and rear-cross traffic alert.

The F Sport gets additional kit such as the Active Cornering Assist, Vehicle Dynamic Integrated Management.

“By designing innovative ways to excite and change the world, Lexus remains a visionary luxury brand that anticipates the future for all. Lexus has long held on to the commitment of bringing amazing experiences to our customers by transforming function into emotion, performance into passion and technology into imagination,” said Akio Takeyama, Deputy Chairman of Lexus Malaysia.


Ferrari marks Enzo's birthday with 'Red Carpet' tribute to silver screen

                MODENA: Ferrari celebrated Enzo Ferrari’s birthday on Feb 18 with a new exhibition that was unveiled at the Enzo Ferrari Museum here.

Titled “Red Carpet”, the exhibit is a tribute to Ferrari’s role on the silver screen and beyond.

This exhibition brings together the models used on screen with clips of them in action in an homage of sorts to the world of film and television which was so quick to spot their star quality and give them their moment in the spotlight: from the famous Magnum P.I. 308 GTSs to the Miami Vice Testarossa, the 512S used in Le Mans and the 375 America driven by Sofia Loren in Boy on a Dolphin.

But Ferrari's relationship to Hollywood was not limited to its role in the films themselves. Many actors and actresses are or were devoted Ferrari owners also.

Paul Newman, for instance, even competed a 365 GTB4 in legendary races such as the 24 Hours of Daytona while Steve McQueen owned a whole slew of Ferraris now much sought-after by collectors. Marilyn Monroe adored Ferraris too – the white 250 GT Cabriolet Pininfarina featured in this exhibition was one of her favourites, in fact. Peter Sellers, Nicholas Cage and many other famous faces besides also fell under the Prancing Horse spell.

Like any exhibition, this one has taken a little artistic licence to include the F430 Schumacher voiced in Cars, complete with big cartoon eyes.

Ferrari also featured a Formula 1 car at the event to showcase its racing roots.

Enzo Ferrari died in 1988 at the age of 90.


MINI Countryman gets a makeover

                FRANKFURT: The Countryman is the maxi to the MINI, so to speak. The British BMW subsidiary has now freshened up its biggest car and is now launching the small SUV to buyers in Europe and elsewhere. What's new in the plus-sized MINI?

Alongside a retouched design and an updated range of engines, there's expanded equipment, including a new steering wheel and an optional large screen.

The almost 4.30-metre-long five-door model can now be recognised from the outside by a new front with standard LED headlights highlighted by a dark ring that vaguely evokes eyeliner. Meanwhile on the back there's the trademark rear lights bearing the Union Jack.

The new Countryman is powered by a three or four-cylinder engine, with the range including three options designed for petrol and three for diesel. According to the manufacturer, they run from 102 to 190 horsepower.

The most powerful engine is a plug-in hybrid with a 125-hp petrol engine at the front and a 95-hp electric motor at the rear axle, as well as a 10-kWh battery in the car floor.

With a combined output of 220hp, this MINI achieves a top electric speed of 135kph and an electric-only radius of up to 61km. With both engine and electric motor working together, the two engines accelerate the car from 0 to 100kph in 6.8 seconds and then up to 196kph.

MINI puts consumption at 1.7 litres (40 g/km CO2).


Switzerland plans to punish drivers of loud cars with noise traps

                GENEVA: Politicians in the Swiss city of Geneva plan to punish the drivers of cars that are too loud using noise radar devices, Germany's Autobild motoring gazette reports.

The city's parliament has been discussing the measures and intends to announce a binding noise limit for cars, motorcycles and trucks by mid-2019.

Switzerland's "Noise League" is urging parliament to set the noise limit at 80 decibels, which as about as loud as a pop-up toaster or a washing machine.

Geneva officials said city residents suffer from a high level of traffic pollution, making noise the second-highest form of environmental pollution behind contaminated air. Geneva inhabitants have a right to healthy surroundings, said parliament.

Customised cars with illegal exhaust systems tuned for maximum noise are another problem. Most of these systems are controlled remotely from the cabin and can be deactivated in a split-second.

A radar device to detect noise and flash the offending vehicle was feasible and not particularly expensive, Green politician Delphine Klopfenstein Broggini told the news portal 20 Minuten.

However development is likely to take several years, as noise radar must be able to differentiate between vehicles such as tractors or passenger cars and several technical hurdles need to be overcome.

Several European cities are trying to tackle noise pollution by imposing lower speed limits and resurfacing cobbled streets with asphalt.


Kia offers 5 tips for EV drivers to save money

                LONDON: The average electric vehicle (EV) driver could save money by making simple changes to driving style, according to a research study by Kia UK and independent automotive training organisation, Motiv8.

The study reveals how drivers with no previous training can quickly adapt their driving style to increase the efficiency of an EV, improving range by up to a third.

For the average festive season journey of 500km, that could equate to a saving of between £7 and £16 (between RM38 and RM87), depending on charging location in Britain.

Kia’s EV efficiency study was implemented following its comprehensive new researchii of 1,200 UK drivers, which identified key concerns related to the cost-of-living crisis.

It revealed that while seven in 10 drivers agree that owning an EV has helped reduce the impact of the cost-of-living crisis on their household, 52 per cent wish they were more aware of ways they could adapt their driving style to minimise expenditure.

Motiv8 International director David Taylor, who conducted the training on behalf of Kia, said: “Kia has some of the most advanced EVs available on the market today, so were the perfect partner to test our efficiency methods. The results speak for themselves; by changing simple inputs, drivers can easily optimise their vehicle’s efficiency and go further on a charge, save on recharging costs and reducing their energy use.

“This is Kia’s gift to EV drivers this festive season – easy techniques that anyone can apply to save money, as well as reduce demand on the national grid."

Kia selected the all-new fully electric Niro for the EV efficiency skills session due to its reasonable 458km range, two-wheel drive electrified powertrain, low drag co-efficient and smart regenerative braking system.

With batteries at 100% and the available range noted, the independent drivers were invited to drive a route which included winding country roads, town driving and stretches of highway.

During the first cycle, they were free to drive in their usual style under the instructor's observation. On return to the training centre, figures from Niro’s intuitive instrument cluster were recorded to indicate driving efficiency and available range for later comparison.

Motiv8 experts then analysed each driver’s habits and style for potential areas of improvement, and tailored advice was given to maximise gains in efficiency before repeating the same route under detailed instruction.

On completion of the second cycle, range and efficiency data were compared to reveal an average improvement of 33% greater electric range across all participants.

As a result of the training, Kia has compiled a list of the top-five most helpful efficiency tips to help EV drivers save money:

> Go easy with the right foot: The instant torque of an EV is exhilarating, but it comes at a price. Up to 50% of the energy powering a car goes into acceleration, so aggressive driving uses more energy
> Lighten the load: Take the roof box off if you’re not using it and unload any unnecessary clutter (but don’t forget the presents!)
> Momentum: Careful route planning to avoid jams will keep you moving. Sometimes the fastest way is not the most efficient way
> Anticipate: Anticipating the traffic situation ahead will keep the car moving at a steady pace and use less energy than heavy slowing and acceleration
> Go slow, and turn on the radio: Cutting your speed from 96kph to 80kph can improve efficiency by up to 15%

Kia provides its own customers with access to Kia Charge, a pan-European charging solution with over 28,500 multi-speed charge points available across the UK, equating to 86 per cent of the nation’s public charging network.


Hyundai gives China another go

                BEIJING: Hyundai Motor Co is far from the top automobile brand of choice in China but its luxury-car division is seeking to change all that with a direct-to-market strategy targeting young, upwardly mobile consumers.

Genesis Motor made its debut in China in April last year after entering North America, Australia and the Middle East. Interestingly, its line up in the world’s biggest car market won’t include an electric vehicle (EV), at least initially.

“It is a tough market to enter but we can’t be a truly global brand without being in China, the most important market in the world,” Genesis China chief executive officer Markus Henne said.

Three models are currently available – the G70, G80 and GV80, starting from 249,800 yuan (US$39,300 or RM164,604) – and electric models should be added later this year.

Tesla Inc’s model Y SUV starts from around 300,000 yuan (RM197,683), by comparison, while an entry level BMW or Audi typically costs north of 200,000 yuan (RM131,857).

Car sales in China climbed 4.5% last year, rising for the first time since 2018 helped by demand for new-energy vehicles and premium automobiles.

BMW AG posted record annual sales of more than 846,000 cars in China with its local partners in 2021, while data from the nation’s Passenger Car Association show the luxury market expanded almost 5% over the period.

Henne acknowledged the growing appetite for EVs in China but said Genesis believes traditional cars will remain a popular choice for the foreseeable future.

Around one in every five cars sold in the nation in December was electric. The company wants to position the Genesis brand first and it “can’t hurt to have two legs to stand on,” he said.

As a brand, Genesis, which launched in 2015, aims to only bring in electric models from 2025.

In China, Henne said a bigger lineup than local EV makers like Li Auto Inc and Xpeng Inc, plus a direct-to-consumer sales model, will make it more competitive and nimble.

Hyundai, for its part, has struggled in China. Buyers have long shunned the automaker because of its fading brand recognition and political tensions – in 2017 there was a spat when South Korea added more launchers to the missile system in response to North Korea testing nuclear weapons.

State media also hasn’t been kind, labeling Hyundai greedy and arrogant.

Along with affiliate Kia, Hyundai only sold around 380,000 cars in China in 2021, even though Hyundai’s plants in the country have capacity of about 1.25 million.

By comparison, Volkswagen AG delivered 3.3 million cars. Kia’s joint venture in China, Dongfeng Yueda Kia Motors Co, has been making a losses for the past five years, according to Meritz Securities Co.

“Hyundai is sandwiched between premium carmakers and local Chinese automakers,” said Moon Yong-Kwon, an analyst at Shinyoung Securities Co.

The automaker has focused for too long on old and outdated models and hasn’t moved fast enough to embrace the high-tech features that Chinese consumers love, he said.

Some analysts also question Genesis’s ability to step out from its parent’s shadow.

“I’m not sure Genesis can be successful in China because the loyalty of Chinese consumers toward Hyundai’s cars isn’t strong,” said Kim Jin-Woo, an analyst at Korea Investment & Securities Co.

Genesis’s strategy of selling direct to consumers has also drawn comparisons with Tesla Inc, which pioneered the business model, and Nio Inc, which has built a reputation on offering drivers a whole lifestyle let alone an EV, with its network of clubs, merchandise and exclusive events.


After Lykan comes Fenyr Supersport, priced around RM18mil - VIDEO

                DUBAI: After the success of the Lykan, the world's first Arabian supercar maker returns to this year's Dubai Motor Show with its second boutique hypercar, the Fenyr Supersport, which has the specifications and performance credentials to give anything from a Ferrari to a McLaren P1 some serious competition.

Although just as exclusive and expensive, the new car is potentially positioned as a no-nonsense, almost meaner sibling to the company's existing Lykan hypercar, which also made its global debut at the Dubai Motor Show back in 2013.

The family resemblance is strong - the cars have a very similar outline - but the Fenyr Supersport is more angular, sharper and faster, and not just because it has forsaken elements such as the real diamond-encrusted headlamps and solid gold interior features that gave the Lykan its 'wow' factor and ensured it stole the show upon its reveal two years ago.

W Motors says that its latest car can output 900hp and 1200Nm of torque - figures that put it on a par with the Ferrari LaFerrari, McLaren P1 and Porsche 91Spyder.

But potentially the most impressive thing about this car is how it gets to those numbers. It doesn't have a hybrid system helping out and has significantly fewer cylinders than any of the competition.

Under the carbon-fibre shell is nestled a little flat-six cylinder engine that would usually be found in a Porsche 911. It has been bored out to 4 litres and two turbo chargers have been fitted with help from renowned Porsche tuning specialists RUF.

This powerplant decision also shows that the company is very serious about delivering a driver's car rather than simply ticking boxes. And that's understandable as the average owner is likely to have several Ferraris, Lamborghinis and AMG Mecedes in his or her existing collection.

With the right conditions, it's capable of 0-100kph in 2.7 seconds and a theoretical top speed of at least 248.5mph - that's 400kph.

So pretty close to those hallowed rivals in acceleration too. However, only an initial 25 examples are planned, meaning that in the exclusivity stakes, it will run rings around every other current hypercar.

As for how much the car will cost, the slower yet equally exclusive and much more ornate Lykan came with a US$3.4 million (RM15mil) price tag. The Fenyr's extra potency plus the fact that it is sculpted almost entirely from exotic weight-saving composite materials suggests that it will be retailing for closer to US$4 million (RM17.5mil), and that's before clients start adding bespoke interior features.


Man killed as car bursts into flames

                PETALING JAYA: A man who stopped his car before going to sleep in the vehicle at the Sprint Highway toll plaza in Damansara was burnt to death when the car caught fire.

Petaling Jaya OCPD Asst Comm Mohd Zani Che Din said that according to an employee at the toll plaza, the man stopped his BMW at the the Touch ’n Go lane at about 4am on Tuesday.

READ MORE: BMW Group Malaysia responds to tragedy

He said that the driver, who is believed to have been drunk, got out of the car and made his way to the front passenger seat before going to sleep with the car engine running.

“The toll booth employee tried to wake the man up but the car was locked and the windows were shut tight,” ACP Mohd Zani said.

He added that about an hour later, the car’s engine caught fire and the flames spread quickly, burning the man to death.

ACP Mohd Zani said that police were still trying to identify the deceased.


Illegal street races difficult to combat, says traffic psychologist

                BERLIN: Illegal street racing remains a common crime in countries around the world, but according to one traffic psychology expert, there is "no real solution" to this universal problem.

The president of the German Society for Traffic Psychology, Wolfgang Fastenmeier, says that educational approaches do exist, such as a "crash course" in which speeders are made aware of the consequences of traffic accidents.

But it's unclear if this approach makes a difference, the Berlin professor of traffic psychology told the Mannheimer Morgen newspaper.

Most illegal road racers speeders appear to live "in a kind of parallel world," Fastenmeier said. "They simply want to act out and demonstrate their (perceived) superiority over others."

Germany is among the countries struggling with an ongoing problem of illegal street races, and fines and even high-profile murder convictions have not succeeded in preventing petrolheads from using public roads to test the limits of their muscle cars.

Harsher punishments are also often not helpful with illegal racers, Fastenmeier said.

"Punishments are only ever effective if there is an alternative behaviour for the offender to breaking the rules or if the behaviour that is undesirable - in this case, speeding - is not very firmly anchored in their behaviour," he told the paper.

"But that is not the case with racers. Instead, that's exactly what they want to do."

The perpetrators are mostly young people who come from difficult social backgrounds and can represent something with their cars "that they would otherwise not be."

In 2019, two men in Germany were convicted of murder and sentenced to life in prison by a court in Berlin after an illegal street race that resulted in the death of an elderly man.

Such races have also led to dozens of fatalities and countless arrests in North America, while in Hong Kong police regularly seize luxury sports cars from suspected illegal street racers.

In Vietnam, police have used paint guns to brand illegal racers on the streets of Hanoi, where races are popular among local youth and often coincide with large sporting events.

Rather than chase the young motorcyclists and risk accidents, police use the paint guns to identify racers after the race is over and crowds have dispersed.


Aston Martin pays homage to Concorde with special edition

                LONDON: Aston Martin has created a tribute to the Concorde with the new special edition of its DBS Superleggera, produced in collaboration with British Airways, which, for its part, is celebrating its centenary.

The Aston Martin Wings Series includes all of the brand's limited edition models.

And this week it was extended to include the DBS Superleggera Concorde Edition, which is mainly distinguished by special bodywork elements in carbon fibre and aluminum, and a bespoke painted livery with the British Airways colours on the roof.

Great care has also been taken with the interior of the vehicle, which offers multiple allusions to the supersonic passenger jet, including steering-wheel paddle shifters made from titanium taken from Concorde compressor blades.

As for the other details, the model is fitted with the range's standard but enormous 725hp DBS Superleggera V12 engine, which is mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission.

With all of this power under the hood, the Superleggera Concorde can reach a top speed of 340kph and accelerate from 0 to 100 kph in just 3.4 seconds.

The new model is presented in a special edition which will be limited to only 10 copies.

This is not the first time that Aston Martin lance has launched a special edition based on its new DBS Superleggera. Earlier in 2019, Aston Martin celebrated the 50th anniversary of the film "On Her Majesty's Secret Service" with a special James Bond edition of its sports grand tourer.


Fuel prices up

PETALING JAYA: Fuel prices will increase across the board from tomorrow.

The prices of RON95 and RON97 are each up 3 sen to RM2.19 from RM2.49 per litre respectively. Diesel is up 5 sen to RM2.17.

The prices of fuel will take effect from 12.01am onwards from Oct 5-11.

The weekly fuel pricing mechanism came into effect in April this year, and the prices of petrol and diesel had been placed on a managed monthly float system since Dec 1, 2014 following the removal of fuel subsidies.


Nissan's new CEO says willing to be fired if no turnaround

Uchida urged shareholders to be patient while he comes up with a plan by May to save Nissan. — Reuters
YOKOHAMA: Nissan’s new chief executive said today he would accept being fired if he fails to turn around Japan’s second biggest automaker which is grappling with plunging sales in the aftermath of the scandal surrounding ex-chairman Carlos Ghosn.

Makoto Uchida, who took over the top job in December, put his job on the line at the automaker’s shareholders’ meeting, where he faced demands ranging from cutting executive pay to offering a bounty to bring Ghosn back to Japan after he fled to Lebanon.

Nissan’s worsening performance has heaped pressure on Uchida, formerly Nissan’s China chief who became its third CEO since September, to come up with aggressive steps to revive the company.

Uchida, who was repeatedly heckled by shareholders today, said he was ready to face dismissal if he failed to improve profitability at the company, which is on course to post its worst annual operating profit in 11 years.

“We will make sure that we steer the company in an effective way so that it is visible in the eyes of viewers. I will commit to this: if the circumstances remain uncertain you can fire me immediately,” he said.

Uchida, 53, did not give a timeframe for improving Nissan’s performance.

The new boss must prove to the board he can accelerate cost-cutting and rebuild profits at the 86-year-old Japanese giant, and that he has the right strategy to repair its partnership with France’s Renault, said sources.

Uchida pleaded with shareholders to be patient while he comes up with a plan by May to recover from crumbling profits and a corporate shake-up following Ghosn’s arrest in Japan in late 2018 over financial misconduct charges.

“If you can be patient a little bit longer, on a day-to-day basis you will be able to sense we are changing,” he said.

Ahead of the meeting, some shareholders demanded more clarity about Uchida’s plan.

“I just want to know what the plan for recovery is. At the moment, the share price has dropped again, and the value of the company has plummeted,” said a 70-year-old former employee who owns shares in the company.

“If this is the situation, part of me thinks that we would be better off with Ghosn ... If we don’t get a clearer vision of the path the company is taking, it will be a worry.”

Nissan’s shares are trading around their lowest level in more than a decade following its latest earnings.

Last week, Nissan cut its dividend outlook to its lowest since the 2011 financial year, after dwindling car sales drove the company to post its first quarterly net loss in nearly a decade.

Shareholders gathered at the extraordinary meeting in Yokohama to vote in new directors including Uchida and Chief Operating Officer Ashwani Gupta.

Their appointments highlight a changing of the guard at Nissan, as shareholders were also voting on motions for former company stalwarts, CEO Hiroto Saikawa and COO Yashuhiro Yamauchi, to leave their board director positions.


SPONSORED: Infiniti Q60 Elegant coupe

                The Infiniti Q60 sports coupe combines expressive design with exhilarating performance and dynamics.

With a powerful turbocharged all-aluminium 2.0-litre petrol engine that delivers 211hp/350Nm, mated to a seven-speed automatic transmission engineered for responsive and direct acceleration, the Q60 sports coupe is a joy to drive.

The free-revving nature of the engine allows drivers to reach a red line of 6,300rpm.

It is also quite fuel efficient, especially with an Idle Stop-Start system, and fuel economy is rated at 7.5 litres per 100km on the combined cycle.

Occupants get a higher level of comfort with Infiniti’s hallmark ‘spinal support’ seats that were designed to reduce the spinal curvature that many traditional seats force occupants to adopt.

The ‘driver-centric, passenger-minded’ cabin design, with a spacious and beautifully appointed interior, has a centre console housing twin touchscreens (8-inch upper and 7-inch lower) as part of the InTouch central control system.

Also standard is an all-new 13-speaker, Bose Performance Series sound system that has been tailored to the acoustics of the Q60’s cabin.

The metallic speaker grilles are thinner yet stronger, helping to transfer the melodic music much better than traditional resin material.

Meanwhile, in a world’s first application, the trunk lid is a hybrid combination of a resin skin on a steel frame, to create a complex “duck-tail” spoiler to improve aerodynamics.

LED headlights, employing ‘light guide technology’ to spread light evenly on the road ahead, provide an alluring face to the car.
The Q60 features 19-inch aluminium alloy wheels fitted with performance run-flat tyres in size 255/40.

The Q60 is available in five exterior colours, with a new ‘Dynamic Sunstone Red’.

Exclusive to this is a tinted clear coat helps protect the unique finish of the paint, while also contributing to the depth of gloss, for greater visual impact.

“Everything we do, we believe in challenging the status-quo, we believe in thinking differently.

“The way Infiniti challenges the status-quo is by designing our cars with powerful elegance, delivering empowering performance and being driver-centric, passenger-minded.

“The Infiniti Q60 is just stunning and sexy,” said Inspired Motor senior general manager Christopher Tan.

Inspired Motor is the sales and marketing arm for Infiniti vehicles in Malaysia.

Imported from Japan, the Q60 sports coupe is priced on-the-road without insurance from RM308,800 with a 7-year unlimited mileage warranty.


Mazda showcases its future

                BANGKOK: Car makers these days are placing more emphasis on emotive design in a fast-paced world where designs that do not evolve will be outdated.

CarSifu recently attended the inaugural Mazda Asean Design Forum in Bangkok where the Japanese carmaker’s next-generation Kodo: Soul of Motion design that was put on display in the guise of the Vision Coupe and RX-Vision Concept.

The Hiroshima-based car maker says that these concepts are the company’s new design direction and will be looking to ‘breathe new life’ into its new generation of vehicles - Japanese style.

As simple as it might sound, the company has made certain to dial in the element of elegance and in order to prevent creating a possibly horrid mess, they’ve stripped away “all nonessential elements” to “embody a less-is-more aesthetic” and that’s what the Vision Coupe is all about.

The coupe features a cabin that’s been pulled further back towards the rear to create an exceptionally long hood - much like classic coupe proportions dictated by the ‘golden ratio’.

This helps to create a silhouette that suggests high performance with a sense of strong forward momentum and that in turn converts glances into stares for this four-door, four-seater coupe.

First, the eyes will begin to notice the play of light and shadow across its supple sheet metal that in a way, brings it to ‘life’.

Such an effect was literally created by the hands of the Japanese carmaker’s craftsmen over the course of two years.

As for the interior, the goal was to ensure that occupants lacked the sense of confinement and not only felt ‘one’ with the car, but also had a sense of speed and a connection to the external environment.

Additionally, the car has been equipped with a see-through screen that feeds the driver with necessary information when required without hampering vision.

More interestingly, the driver has been situated centrally to sense the vehicle’s central axis at all times for an enhanced feeling of ‘jinba-ittai’ (horse and rider as one), while being flanked by controls for a more intuitive feel from the cockpit’s symmetrical layout.

The Mazda RX-Vision concept, seen coated in what Mazda says is a special red which made its world premier in Tokyo, is a rotary sports car concept that introduced the next-generation SkyActiv-R rotary engine as well as Mazda’s vision of the ultimate front-engine rear-wheel (FR) driven sports car styling.

The styling provides for an overall low and wide body that’s combined with a low hood, short overhangs and a taut cabin - the bare essentials, provide the immediate emergence of its sporty nature.

Moving around, the body’s hand-sculpted curves provides an interesting play of light and shadows that morphs from the slightest change in viewing angle.

And the special coat of red paint it wears helps it further do just that.

The interior has been fitted with sophisticated handcrafted materials in order to enhance the tactile feel to it.

There’s also intricate instruments to bring about a machine-like appeal that’s been combined with a simple instrument panel and genuine leather trim for a more upmarket feel.

Under the hood Mazda will be installing its next-generation rotary engine and even though production of the RX-8 ceased in 2012, work on the rotary engine did not.

Lastly, the new engine will be christened with the SkyActiv-R moniker for its breakthrough in addressing three main issues that generally plagued the engine - fuel economy, emissions and reliability.


This Caddy's up for sale, previous owner Donald Trump

                LONDON: American car fans and those seeking a piece of historic memorabilia are set to have their pulses racing as this rare Cadillac (Caddy) limousine once owned by President Donald Trump is up for sale.

British car dealership Sevenvale Cars, based in Gloucester, is offering the vehicle for sale on the Exchange and Mart website for £50,000 (RM279,000) .

The current owner bought the Caddy 10 years ago and it has even starred in a number of films.

The president’s former limousine was built in 1988 by Cadillac in conjunction with Trump, for a family member and arrived in Britain in 1991. There were plans to produce 50 of the "Cadillac Trump". However, only two were ever actually built, with this one now for sale bought originally by Donald Trump.


VW shows what an electric Golf GTI might look like with ID.X concept

                FRANKFURT: Volkswagen is conjuring up the spectre of the Golf GTI for the electric age, and is considering pimping the ID.3 with some silent muscle, in what the company is marketing as a Generation E Golf.

To give us a sense of what this might look like, VW brand manager Ralf Brandstaetter has unveiled a concept bearing the ID.X badge and promises that parts of this concept will make it into series production.

The developers have swapped the original 62kWh battery from the ID.3 for the 82kWh storage unit from the ID.4 and at the same time revised the electric motors and chassis.

According to Brandstaetter, the result is a 333-horsepower all-wheel drive car that weighs 200 kilos less than the standard model and is correspondingly quicker on the road. It needs just 5.3 seconds for the sprint from 0 to 100kph, for example.

Because the traction and stability control system has been supplemented by a special drift mode, the VW boss also promises much more fun at the wheel for anyone testing it out on a racetrack.

In addition to the technical changes, VW has also modified the design, fitted a poison yellow trim and sports seats.


2016 Geneva Motor Show: 40 Lamborghini Centenario, all sold!

GENEVA: The latest to come out of Lamborghini is sitting pretty on its stand at the 2016 Geneva Motor Show.

The Centenario was created to celebrate the centenary of founder Ferruccio Lamborghini’s birth. Only 20 coupé and 20 roadster versions of the super car will be produced and all 40 cars are already sold, at a starting price of 1.75 million euros plus tax (RM8mil).

Using the V12 architecture, the Centenario’s naturally aspirated engine produces 770hp and powers from 0-100kph in 2.8 seconds, and from 0-300kph in 23.5 seconds with a top speed of more than 350kph. Braking from 100kph to standstill is achieved in 30 metres. A monocoque and body in full carbon fibre provide a low weight of 1,520 kg and a weight to power ratio of just 1.97 kg/hp.

Shown here in an entirely carbon fibre finish, clients can specify their Centenario to include exposed carbon fibre or any colour and finish from Lamborghini’s Ad Personam personalisation programme.
The car’s aerodynamic design includes an extending rear wing providing more downforce at high speeds. The introduction of rear-wheel steering provides increased agility and stability, and an innovative touchscreen provides connected infotainment, including internet browsing and Apple CarPlay.

A mono line from front to back defines the recognisable Lamborghini contours, with long, low overhangs front and rear creating a clean, sensuous, mono-body shape. The Centenario measures 4.924 m long and 1.143 m high. Aerodynamic inlets made of several fins characterise both front and rear. Large air scoops in the front bonnet, while reminiscent of 1970s sports cars, are there to funnel air through the car’s front contributing to downforce on the front axle.

Air also flows through ducts within the front headlight casing and others in the sideskirts and around the wheel arches, improving the airflow to the rear radiators and providing optimised cooling. The roof including air scoops, takes its styling from aeronautic cues, enhanced by a hexagonal carbon fibre and glass engine cover.

The body of the Centenario is in a gloss carbon fibre. The front bonnet, scissor door panels (always reserved for V12 models) and roof line are aerodynamic: the lower parts in matt carbon fibre are designed to be aerodynamic comprising front splitter, side skirts, wheel arches and rear diffuser.

The irregular wheel arches, both front and rear, are a defining feature of the Centenario, as they have been in other Lamborghini models. Accented in matt carbon fibre and concealing airflow ducts, they highlight the aerodynamic design of the car.

The profile of the rear wheel arch accentuates the Centenario’s rear-wheel steering. Pirelli PZero tyres, developed for the rear-wheel steering, sit on exclusive 20”/21” front/rear rims in forged and milled aluminium. The spokes’ fan shape, accented in carbon fibre, mask ducts extracting hot air from the carbon ceramic brakes, finished with a central-locking wheel nut sporting the Lamborghini bull logo.

The integrated rear diffuser dominates the back of the car, its size optimising air flow distribution, maximising the car’s downforce.

Like many mechanical parts around the car, exposed to maximise heat exchange, the rear tyres are visible, while floating in the void above the diffuser are the Centenario’s ‘Y’-shaped rear lights. The LED lights stretch the full width of the rear.

An extendable rear wing is integrated in body when stationary or at low speeds to preserve the minimalist lines of the car. According to vehicle dynamic conditions and Driving Mode chosen, the wing extends to 150mm and rotates up to 15 degrees for optimal aerodynamic efficiency when driven fast.

With permanent four-wheel drive, the Centenario adopts a new Lamborghini rear-wheel steering system. At low speeds the rear tires turn in the opposite direction of the steering angle which leads to a virtual reduction of the wheelbase. This provides increased turning agility at low speeds, requiring less steering angle and a reduced turning radius.

At high speeds, the rear tyres turn in the same direction of the steering angle which leads to a virtual increase of the wheelbase. As a result the rear-wheel steering provides increased stability and optimises vehicle response. In the three Lamborghini driving modes, Strada, Sport and Corsa, the rear-wheel steering heightens the characteristics of each, particularly in lateral dynamics.

The Centenario is fitted with Lamborghini’s magneto rheological suspension and Lamborghini Dynamic Steering (LDS), especially tuned for the Centenario’s rear-wheel steering and providing optimal responsiveness and driver feedback.

Transmission is via Lamborghini’s Independent Shifting Rod (ISR) gearbox, providing a lightweight solution to achieving the fastest gearshifts possible.

The luxurious interior can be finished to each Centenario client’s specification. Sports seats in lightweight carbon fibre are included, with new stitching that features on the length of the dashboard, steering wheel, sun visors, rocker covers, and the new inner door panels made of carbon fibre and Alcantara.

Functionality and connectivity are essential features of the Centenario. Including satellite navigation, a high definition 10.1 inch touchscreen connects the Centenario driver to both the car and the outside world.

Users may browse the Internet, connect to email and social media and use online applications such as web radio. Apple CarPlay is included, allowing a safe, effective way to make calls, request directions, play music and access the functionality of an iPhone.

The infotainment system includes a sophisticated telemetry function: the Centenario provides ultimate performance, both on road and, should an owner wish, on track: as evidenced by space for two helmets in the front trunk! The highly sophisticated telemetry allows speeds, times, lateral and G forces to be recorded and even compared between different occasions and different drivers. Two optional interior cameras allow the drivers’ experiences to be recorded.

The Centenario continues Lamborghini’s strategy of producing one-off cars and exclusive limited editions, which began with the Reventón and included the Sesto Elemento, Aventador J and Veneno.

“The Centenario is a car that perfectly combines tradition and innovation. It looks to the future while honouring the legend that is Ferruccio Lamborghini,” said Lamborghini president and CEO Stephan Winkelmann.

“The Centenario is an opportunity for our designers and engineers to transcend some of the constraints of series car production to achieve an incomparable result: the Centenario has immediately proved itself as a desirable collectors’ car, while demonstrating new Lamborghini technologies and outstanding performance. It is the most fitting tribute to Ferruccio Lamborghini in his centenary year: a man who created an exceptional brand, believed that anything was possible, and produced extraordinary, iconic cars. The Centenario is a super sports car for Ferruccio Lamborghini and the future he and we believe in today.”


Why the Lynk & Co 01 may be the most important new car of 2016

                GOTHENBURG (Sweden): It's a new car from a completely new automotive marque, but more than that, the first Lynk & Co vehicle is a totally new way of looking at what a car is and what it is set to become as the definition of personal mobility continues to evolve.

Want to know what the automobile of the future will look like and what it will do? Then look no further than the Lynk & Co 01.

Scheduled to go on sale in China in 2017 and Europe and the US from 2018, the car is the first to come with a host of next-generation digital features, such as constant connectivity and a dedicated app store.

"Our customers' values and preferences have evolved dramatically. It is time for us to step into the future and reinvent the model to become a comprehensive solution for mobility and lifestyle," said company Senior Vice President, Alain Visser.

So every Lynk & Co car will be underpinned by an open source software platform, meaning that it can be hacked, in the positive sense of the term. Just like app developers have redefined how smartphones are used, the same developers potentially have carte blanche to redefine the 01's capabilities.

However, from day one, this car will have an always-on Internet connection for communicating with other cars and accessing route information via the cloud. This connection will also enable push-button sharing. Activating the feature will let the owner give others access to his or her car when it's not in use, sending them a digital key.

"Our aim is to enrich and simplify car ownership by redefining how they are bought, owned, connected, serviced and used," said Visser.

Even the ownership model is being disrupted. The car can be bought, leased, used via subscription or shared with others. "While other car brands are undergoing a digital transformation, Lynk & Co is born digital," said the company's chief digital officer, David Green.

But the reason why the Lynk & Co 01 could play a future-shaping role and why it is potentially such a significant automotive moment of 2016 is the company behind it.

Lynk & Co is part of Geely which, as well as owning Volvo, is one of China's biggest car companies. So the finance to make this a reality are well in place. As is the expertise to build a car to European expectations. The 01 will boast the same levels of active safety - whether through systems such as autonomous braking and blind spot monitoring, or via construction techniques - as any current Volvo.

"A close working relationship with Geely and Volvo, and years of intense digital and physical testing have delivered really outstanding results," said Mats Fägerhag, CEO of Geely research and innovation center CEVT.

"The architecture and the range of powertrains we have developed are state-of-the-art, helping us produce vehicles that are strong, lightweight, efficient, fun to drive and packed full of technology."


Is your car giving children asthma?

The country with the worst overall figure was South Korea, where almost a third of cases had a link to traffic pollution. — dpa

WASHINGTON: Nobody thinks the fumes coming out of a car's tailpipe are harmless, but research on the global impact of exhaust fumes paints a clear picture of what the world's favourite transport method means for our health.

Fumes contribute to 4 million new cases of asthma in children around the world every year, according research. A study published in the medical journal The Lancet earlier this year suggested that 13 per cent of childhood asthma cases diagnosed are linked to traffic pollution.

The country with the worst overall figure was South Korea, where almost a third of cases had a link to traffic pollution. China was ranked 19th in the world, with the UK was ranked 24th, and the US 25th. There was a huge variation between different cities, with almost half the cases in Shanghai (48 per cent) linked to car fumes.

The research was collated by a team from America's George Washington University. It looked at 125 cities around the world, and combined measurements of nitrogen dioxide levels from ground-level monitors and satellite data, with population distribution and asthma incidence figures. These were used to estimate the number of new traffic pollution-related asthma cases in children up to the age of 18.

"Nitrogen dioxide pollution appears to be a substantial risk factor for childhood asthma incidence in both developed and developing countries, especially in urban areas," says senior author Dr Susan
Anenberg. "Our findings suggest that the World Health Organisation guideline for annual average concentrations might need to be revisited, and that traffic emissions should be a target to mitigate exposure."

Nitrogen dioxide is a waste product of fossil fuel combustion, and traffic emissions can contribute up to 80 per cent of ambient levels of the gas in cities. The study estimates that there are 170 new cases of traffic pollution-related asthma per 100,000 children every year. However the report’s lead author, Ploy Achakulwisut, points out that some authorities are taking effective measures to tackle the problem.

"Policy initiatives can lead to improvements in children’s health and also reduce greenhouse gas emissions”, she says. “Recent examples include Shenzhen's electrification of its entire bus fleet, and London's Ultra-Low Emission Zone congestion charges.”

Asthma is the most common non-communicable disease among children world-wide, and the World Health Organisation says its prevalence has increased dramatically since the 1950s. It’s believed pollutants may cause inflammation to airways that triggers asthma in genetically predisposed children. The US Environmental Protection Agency, and Health Canada have suggested that a causal relationship between long-term nitrogen dioxide exposure and childhood asthma development is likely.

A recent German study suggested that traffic-related pollution could be leading to more deaths than smoking. The results, published in the European Heart Journal, showed that every year an average of 120 people out of every 100,000 inhabitants around the world die prematurely from the consequences of polluted air.

The World Health Organisation estimates that smoking – including passive smoking – causes 7.2 million deaths annually worldwide.


New 2022 Jaguar F-Pace arrives from RM598,000

                PETALING JAYA: Jaguar Land Rover Malaysia has unveiled the 2022 Jaguar F-Pace that sports several new technological updates.

Available only in the R-Dynamic variant, the luxury sports utility vehicle (SUV) is priced from RM598,800 with 10% SST excluding road tax, registration and insurance.

Its 2.0-litre four-cylinder Ingenium petrol engine produces 250PS and 365Nm of torque to accelerate from zero to 100kph in 7.3 seconds.

The award-winning SUV gets a refreshed sculpted bonnet accentuating a wider power bulge and new super-slim, all-LED quad headlights featuring ‘Double J’ Daytime Running Light (DRL).

At the rear, the new tailgate accentuates the visual width of the vehicle, while the redesigned lower bumper highlights the F-Pace with an even more confident appearance.

The new all-LED rear lights with sculpted lenses are inspired by the fully electric I-PACE and feature Jaguar’s chicane graphic, showcasing the advanced technology and modernity of the overall design.

The new all-LED rear lights with sculpted lenses are inspired by the fully electric I-Pace and feature Jaguar’s chicane graphic, showcasing the advanced technology and modernity of the overall design.

The use of light-coloured finishes on lower sections of the cabin immerses the interior in one tone to enhance the sense of space.

The new Drive Selector epitomises Jaguar’s approach to contemporary controls by featuring a soft upper trim wraps round the ‘palm grip’ with a ‘cricket-ball’ stitch,

To complement the lavish load space, the F-Pace has a centrally mounted intuitive 11.4-inch curved-glass HD touchscreen that operates the new Pivi Pro infotainment system, which provides greater clarity.

The intuitive system allows the driver to carry out 90% of common tasks within two taps from the home screen thanks to its simplified menu structure.

The seamless integration of new technology is integral to Jaguar’s new design DNA.

Engineered around a smartphone-like interface, it features an intuitive touchscreen that allows drivers to go directly to what is needed, when it is needed.

Aside from wirelessly supporting Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, it also comes with wireless device charging.

Also included is an in-built segment-first Active Road Noise Cancellation technology that monitors and eliminates external noises by calculating the opposite phase soundwave needed to remove them.

Further elevating the driving experience, the integrated Jaguar Drive Control technology features Comfort, Eco, Rain-Ice-Snow and Dynamic modes that can be selected manually to meet various road conditions.

In tandem, the Configurable Dynamics onboard enables selection of engine response, gearbox shift points and steering to suit personal preference.

Advanced safety technologies including a Driver Condition Monitor, emergency braking, lane keep assist, cruise control and speed limiter are also installed.

Along with the latest connectivity and convenience features, the new F-PACE also includes a selection of advanced driver assistance systems.

Sime Darby Motors Malaysia managing director of retail and distribution Jeffrey Gan said the F-Pace would continue to appeal to car enthusiasts, bringing together high-performance with style and functionality.

Jaguar Land Rover Malaysia managing director Syed Ahmad Muzri Syed Faiz said the company is raising the bar even further with this best-in-class SUV, which combines practicality, performance and comfort with a distinctive look and cutting-edge technologies.


Land Rover tows out new Virgin Galactic spaceship for global debut and naming

                LOS ANGELES: Land Rover helped Virgin Group founder Sir Richard Branson unveil Virgin Galactic’s new SpaceShipTwo at a special reveal and naming ceremony at their Mojave Air and Space Port base in California on Friday.

A Range Rover Autobiography took centre stage at the global reveal, towing out the new SpaceShipTwo – officially christened VSS Unity – in front of the media, guests and a group of Virgin Galactic’s future astronauts.

Sir Richard arrived in the Range Rover followed by the SpaceShipTwo. The event also marked the official naming of the new SpaceShipTwo, with Stephen Hawking revealing the name VSS Unity via a recorded message.

Announced in April 2014, the tow-out of VSS Unity by a Range Rover Autobiography marked the latest milestone in the partnership between the two brands.

A fleet of Land Rover vehicles provides logistical support for the Virgin Galactic team at its base in Mojave, and will form part of its commercial operations for future astronauts at Spaceport America in New Mexico.