MAN Malaysia unveils more spacious TM Cab

                SUBANG JAYA: MAN Truck & Bus (M) Sdn Bhd (MAN Malaysia), the first vehicle manufacturer in Malaysia to offer Euro V engines as standard across its entire Truck range, has announced that customers can now choose the taller and more spacious TM Cab as an option.

Until now, the standard height TN Cab has always been preferred by the Malaysian market due to its flexibility.

Its compact and weight-saving design makes it suitable for a wide range of applications such as tankers, silo and container prime movers or for hauling timber and heavy construction materials on typically narrow Malaysian roads.

The all-new TM Cab has the same exterior width of 2,240 mm and length of 2,280 mm as the TN Cab but stands taller at 2,035 mm compared to the latter’s 1,737 mm.

 MAN Malaysia GM Thayalan Subramaniam (left_ with O'Brooks.

Inside the cabin, it is where the additional height counts.

An additional 280mm of headroom translates into more space for upright standing, ease of movement and stowage and a more comfortable resting area at the back.

This is important as the cab is both a workplace and living space for truckers.

It is where they spend hours on the road and retreat to after work, especially on long-haul trips.

MAN Malaysia managing director Andrew O’Brooks said that the all-new MAN TM Cab was yet another market-driven offering from the company as it continues to drive change towards the future.

“It has been almost a year since we took the lead in the sustainability journey with the bold introduction of our New MAN Truck Generation with Euro V engines as standard here in Malaysia when no other manufacturer dared to.

“On the global stage, MAN is also charging ahead with our all-electric large series MAN e-Truck set to debut just two years from now,” he said.

O’Brooks said while the company is actively shaping the transition to sustainable and climate-neutral mobility with high technology products, it remains committed to continuously innovating and improving its conventional products to meet the ‘real world’ needs of the transport industry today.

He said the All-New MAN TM Cab offers all the advantages of the TN Cab and now fulfils the needs of the most important element in the logistics chain – the driver,” he said.

O’Brooks said that MAN clearly understood the need to provide the right solutions to help transporters recruit and retain drivers with the industry facing an acute shortage in the area.

“Truckers have a very challenging job -- they work with big machines, have to comply with various regulations and limitations, are often under time pressure, and are exposed to a lot of stress in road traffic on a daily basis.

The Excellent Driver Fit philosophy that guided the development of our New MAN Truck Generation extends to beyond creating a comfortable and ergonomic cabin. A whole list of state-of-the art driver assistance and safety systems keeps truckers safe every time they are on the road in a MAN Truck,” he said.

Some of the Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) that are available either as standard or optional in every New MAN Truck Generation include Lane Guard System (LGS), Lane Departure Warning System (LDWS), Tyre Pressure Monitoring (TPM), Emergency Brake Assist (EBA), Electronic Stability Programme (ESP), Assisted High-Beam Headlight and Automatic Wiper System, Side Camera System (SCS) and 360° View Assistance (Bird View), Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Continuous Damping Control (CDC) and MAN BrakeMatic®.

For details on the all-new MAN TM Cab, visit www.man.com.my.


Mercedes 2020 AMG CLA 35 announced ahead of New York debut

                STUTTGART: Mercedes announced that the new 2020 AMG CLA 35 will make its world premiere at the New York International Auto Show, a model very similar to the AMG A35 sedan that was unveiled two weeks ago.

Within the space of two weeks, Mercedes-Benz has announced the 2020 model year editions of two vehicles in the AMG segment: the Mercedes-AMG A35 Sedan and the Mercedes-AMG CLA 35.

Only the latter - which was announced this week - will make it to the New York Auto Show next week, though considering that the two models have nearly identical specs, there may be no need to have both on display.

The main difference between the CLA 35 and the A35 is that the CLA is a four-door coupe and the A-Class is a sedan. Each use the same 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces a maximum output of 302 hp and maximum torque of 295 lb-ft.

While both are all-wheel drive and have the same transmission, the drive system of the CLA 35 is AMG 4matic+ while the A-Class 35 uses an AMG Performance 4matic drive system. This difference pushes the 0 - 60 mph acceleration time of the CLA to 4.6 seconds while the A-Class can only do it in 4.7 seconds.

Both are equipped with an MBUX infotainment system which now comes with the MBUX interior assistant that can understand gestures to control multimedia. In each model you'll also find a voice control system which can be enabled by saying the words, "Hey Mercedes."

On the outside, as well, the two models are difficult to tell apart. The CLA 35 has been given a few extra lines on the hood and rear end that give it a sportier aesthetic than the A35.

The world premiere of the Mercedes-AMG CLA 35 will take place in New York on April 16 with the model hitting US dealerships late this year. Availability and pricing of the A-Class 35 have not yet been announced.


It's 'EyesOn' which carmaker picks up an award

                DETROIT: BMW's latest seventh generation 5 Series recently picked up its first of probably many other accolades to come after having receiving the Best Designed User Experience Award from EyesOn Design.

With a starting price of US$51,200 (RM250,000) plus destination and handling, the new 5 Series will be in U.S. dealerships in February.

The EyesOnDesign Awards are the officially-sanctioned design awards for the 2017 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS), honouring the best production and concept vehicles making their worldwide auto show debut in Detroit.

The all-new BMW 5 Series won the judges votes with its new user interface which comprises of the iDrive 6.0, BMW Gesture Control, latest generation Head-Up Display, Remote 3D View and an improved Voice Control with natural voice input.

The new BMW 5 also comes with a host of innovations such as the Remote Control Parking and Advanced Driver Assistance Systems.

“BMW has long been a pioneer in advanced Human Machine Interface (HMI) technologies and the new 5 Series brings together everything we have learned in our 100 year history,” said BMW (North America) president and CEO Ludwig Willisch.

Other EyesOn Design awards include best concept car which went to Nissan's Vmotion 2.0 that showcases the Japanese  carmaker's new sedan design direction. It was also awarded the best innovative use of colour, graphics and materials.

The Vmotion 2.0 is the evolution of the “V-motion” front design signature that's seen on many current Nissan products.

“Vmotion 2.0 offers a stunning look into the future of Nissan design – fresh and dynamic, yet cabin-focused,” said Nissan Motor Co. (Nissan Global Design Strategy) executive design director Mamoru Aoki.

The award for best production went to the KIA Stinger fastback sedan thanks to its combination of sporty muscular appearance, performance and luxury.

“We’ve made a lot of great cars and I’m proud of all of them, but the Stinger is something special,” said Kia Motors chief design officer Peter Schreyer.

Taking the best interior design was the fifth-generation Lexus LS 500 flagship sedan, which embodies Japanese tradition and culture to exceed its customers' expectations.

"The designers took the approach of starting from new, reimagining what a flagship should be, as if launching the brand all over again.  The goal was to exceed expectations of our luxury customers." said Lexus LS chief designer Koichi Suga.


Proton's export sales hit 98-month high

                SUBANG JAYA: Proton delivered 669 units to overseas distributors in May, making it the national car maker's best foreign sales month March 2013 or 98 months ago.

Up to the end of May, the total Year-To-Date (YTD) export volume is at 174% of the target set and only 6% behind what was achieved for the whole of 2020.

Proton director of international sales Steven Xu said the company's plan for 2021 was to aggressively grow Proton’s export sales volume at the beginning of the year.

 Xu.

“Despite international restrictions and the rising cost of shipping caused by the coronavirus, we were confident of being able to meet our goals due to the sales plans of our importers and the appeal of our products.

“After five months however we are close to doubling the volume target set, which hopefully is a sign for more success in 2021,” Xu said.

Proton said Pakistan is a new market for the company and was by far the best performer for the first five months of 2021.

Brunei which started selling Proton vehicles in 1987, was the third biggest export market by volume this year and in May, importers PAD Motors had the best sales month in company history.

Alpha Ezz El-Arab, the importer and distributor for Proton cars in Egypt, has already received 350 units this year, making it Proton’s second largest export market.

Proton also said the assembly of its models in its export markets was vital for the company to achieve its long-term goals.

Following the local assembly of the Proton Saga in Kenya, the next market to assemble cars locally will be Pakistan.

 Flag-off ceremony of CKD shipment to Kenya in 2020.

“If everything goes to plan our partner in Pakistan, Al-Haj Automotive, will begin assembly operations with the Saga by the end of July or early August at its new plant in Karachi.

“The X70 will be added to their production line later, and we have high hopes this development will spur sales growth in the South Asian region,” said Xu.

Proton also said while the wider acceptance of the Proton brand and its products internationally, the key to achieving the company’s long-term goals remained with sales growth in Asean.

The region is hotly contested with many global brands having invested in production facilities that supply local and export markets as well as competition from locally grown manufacturers.

 New Proton logo in the X70 SUV.

Proton’s presence in Asean is limited to Brunei but the company has plans to return to the two biggest markets in the region, Thailand and Indonesia, in the very near future.

Xu said Proton needs to have a major presence in Thailand and Indonesia if it wants to be the third best-selling brand in Asean.

“As the biggest automotive markets in the region, they offer enormous volume potential, but the level of competition is also very high.

“For both countries, we have been busy recruiting partners to build a network that ensures a viable business model and in the short term, our target is to return to Thailand in 2022,” said Xu.


2016 Paris Motor Show: DS brings 360-degree video experience

                PARIS: For its second appearance at the Paris Motor Show, which runs Oct 1-16, DS Automobiles is treating visitors to a unique immersive video show presenting its latest products and services.

Based on the DS E-Tense concept car, the immersive 360-degree video show presents the new DS "Only You" program of premium services. The DS E-Tense is a sporty electric concept car promising 402hp and 0-100kph acceleration in 4.5 seconds. Unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show in March, the vehicle has a range of 360km.

As well as showcasing its "Only You" program, DS will present its "Commandes Spéciales" in a worldwide premiere. This special orders service for customer-made DS cars is notably inspired by former bespoke DS models created for stars, politicians and French presidents. Visitors can check out the first in a long line of custom models - the DS 5 Commande Spéciale - at the show.

DS is bringing five current models to its stand at the event: the DS 3 Performance Black Special, a nimble version (208hp) of the new DS 3; a DS 3 Cabrio Sport Chic; a DS 4 Performance Line; a DS 4 Crossback Terre Rouge; and a DS 5 Sport Chic, a glamorous version of the brand's flagship model. The Citroën DS and SM - two iconic and avant-garde models from the brand's early days - will also be on display.


A car running on empty isn’t impossible if Toyota gets its way

Solar panels affixed to the bonnet of a Prius PHEV equipped with a solar charging system in Tokyo Japan, on Sept 11. — All pix by Bloomberg
TOKYO: Put together the best solar panels money can buy, super-efficient batteries and decades of car-making know-how and, theoretically, a vehicle might run forever.

That’s the audacious motivation behind a project by Toyota, Sharp Corp. and New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organisation of Japan, or Nedo, to test a Prius that could revolutionise transportation.

"The solar car’s advantage is that - while it can’t drive for a long range - it’s really independent of charging facilities,” said Toyota project manager Koji Makino.

Even if fully electric cars overtake petroleum-powered vehicles in sales, they still need to be plugged in, which means building a network of charging stations across the globe.

The sun, on the other hand, shines everywhere for free, and when that energy is paired with enough battery capacity to propel automobiles at night, solar-powered cars could leapfrog all the new-energy technologies being developed, from plug-in hybrids to hydrogen fuel-cell vehicles, in one fell swoop.

But the current forecast is only partly sunny because there’s still some work left to reach that level of efficiency.

"This is not a technology we are going to see widely used in the next decades,” said Takeshi Miyao, an auto analyst at consultancy Carnorama. "It’s going to take a long time.”

Not for lack of trying. Toyota and Hyundai Motor Co. already introduced commercial models with solar panels on the roof, but they were too underpowered and could barely juice the sound system.

A Prius plug-in hybrid that sells for more than 3 million yen (RM116,000) offers solar panels as an option, but they only charge the battery when parked. The maximum amount of power for driving only lasts about 6km, said Mitsuhiro Yamazaki, director at the solar energy systems division of Nedo.

Toyota has been testing a new solar-powered Prius since July, though it acknowledges that cars running non-stop without connecting to a hose or plug are still far away. Even so, the Toyota City-based company said the research will pay off in other ways.

Indeed, there have been some breakthroughs, mainly due to advancements by Sharp. The prototype’s solar panel converts sunlight at an efficiency level of more than 34%, compared with about 20% for current panels on the market.

Because the solar cell being used by Toyota, Sharp and Nedo is only about 0.03 mm thick, it can be placed on more surfaces, including the curvy parts of the roof, bonnet and hatchback. The electrical system can charge the vehicle even when it’s on the move.

If the car is driven four days a week for a maximum of 50km a day, there’s no need to plug into an outlet, said Nedo's Yamazaki.

Toyota’s bet on solar is one of many that Japan’s No. 1 carmaker is placing on the future of transportation. With Volkswagen AG and other auto titans facing uncertain futures as new technologies and business models ripple through the US$2.23 trillion (RM9.3tril) global industry, they’re investing billions of dollars in cars powered by electricity and hydrogen to keep apace.

China also has explored efforts to tap the sun for transportation purposes. China tested an "intelligent highway” that buries solar panels, mapping sensors and electric-battery rechargers under transparent concrete, with the photovoltaic cells generating enough electricity to power highway lights and 800 homes.

Hanergy Holding Group Ltd. introduced four cars powered by solar panels in 2016 as a way to expand the use of photovoltaic technology. The cars could be charged in daylight while driving, but they also contained lithium batteries for plugging in.

Nedo started the current project in 2016 with the goal of achieving an output of 1 kilowatt in vehicles by using a solar-battery module with a conversion efficiency of more than 30%.

Sharp, one of Japan’s largest makers of solar panels, is developing the solar-cell technologies with Nedo funding, while Toyota is responsible for making the system to convert energy into driving power.

While the car’s greatest potential markets will be sunny climes, such as California and western China, Nedo will evaluate whether it’s also suitable for cities such as Tokyo, a key assessment for deciding whether to mass produce the vehicle, Makino said. The current trial is scheduled to run through March.

If the solar-powered Prius can be made, it could compete with established manufacturers such as Hyundai and startups Karma Automotive and Lightyear. The Lightyear One is a US$170,000 (RM708,000) luxury electric car that, according to its developers, can drive almost 800km on a single charge.

The startup, founded in 2016 by a group of Dutch engineering students, uses 54 square feet of solar panels on the roof and bonnet that add more than 11km each hour to the car’s driving range.

Production is planned to start in 2021, and more than 100 cars have been pre-ordered, said the company.

Sharp’s solar cells more commonly are used for charging homes and satellites. Toyota’s demo car is covered by about 1,100 cells, each about the size of a business card, said Hiroyuki Juso, a senior manager at Sharp’s solar panel project. The expense of the cells makes mass production unlikely for now, he said.

"There is potential in this technology,” said Carnorama’s Miyao.


BMW has got its timing right for beefing up electric cars, says CEO

                LONDON: BMW has timed its shift to electric cars well and its upcoming products will upend the perception the German carmaker is behind on electrification and could make its stock compete with the likes of Tesla Inc, its top executive said.

“There is a perception that we took a break, but we actually didn’t take a break,” chief executive Oliver Zipse said as part of a series of boardroom interviews entitled “Delivering Net Zero.”

“We waited for the moment when electromobility is really getting into higher volumes.”

Carmakers are racing to develop electric cars amid tightening CO2 emission standards in Europe and China.

BMW says it expects half of its sales to be fully-electric models by 2030, which is seen as a more conservative approach than rivals like Volkswagen AG, which has seen its stock lifted by ambitious electrification plans.

Volkswagen has developed its own electric vehicle platform from the ground up. Next month Daimler AG will unveil its first Mercedes-Benz model on a dedicated electric platform.

BMW currently builds combustion engine, hybrid and electric models on shared platforms — critics say shared platforms compromise the performance of electric vehicles — and will not launch a dedicated electric platform until 2025.

“If you look at what’s happening in the market with these (dedicated electric) platforms, the cars all look alike,” Zipse said. “BMW serves very specific, high-paying customers, I think they don’t want cars that all look alike.”

Zipse said he expects the European Union would further tighten its CO2 emission targets for 2030.

He said the bloc should not overreach on so-called Euro 7 car emission proposals for pollutants including nitrous oxide and lung-damaging particulate matter due this year — Germany’s auto industry says some proposals under consideration could effectively end combustion engines from 2025.

“We should do it in a reasonable way to keep the combustion engine alive” because engine improvements will help reach climate goals, he said.

Zipse said BMW’s market cap of around €55 billion (RM268bil) is lower than its assets of around €60 billion (RM292bil).

“Something is wrong there,” he said. “That would assume that you don’t have a future.”

Asked if BMW could become a “story stock” like electric carmaker Tesla, Zipse said: “Of course we can.”

“The equity story is not finished for BMW,” he said. “We have a great future, we will grow.”


Driving schools now allowed to conduct courses, training

                PETALING JAYA: Driving schools are allowed to conduct courses and training sessions starting today, says Senior Minister (Defence) Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob.

He said the centres are now allowed to open from 7.30am to 8.30pm, while courses and training can go on from 8.30am to 8pm.

“We have received applications from driving schools to increase their operation hours.

“We agreed to this request during the National Security Council meeting, ” he said during the regular media briefing at Parliament in Kuala Lumpur today.

He noted that the new rules take effect today, and that all driving schools must adhere to the existing standard operating procedures during the recovery movement control order period.


Petrol prices down, diesel up

                PETALING JAYA: Petrol prices are down by one sen per litre for the third week of January, while diesel prices are up.

In a statement today, Finance Minister Lim Guan Eng said the prices of both RON95 and RON97 petrol would drop by one sen, while diesel would increase by one sen.

With the decrease in petrol prices, RON95 will now retail at RM1.92 per litre, RON97 (RM2.22) and diesel (RM2.05).

Lim said the new prices would take effect from 12.01am on Saturday until Jan 18.

He added that to protect consumers from increases in fuel prices, RON95 petrol would be capped at RM2.20 per litre and diesel at RM2.18 per litre, through the implementation of subsidies.

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

Under the APM, weekly fuel prices are announced every Friday and will remain in force for one week.


Federal Auto Cars certified as first local Volvo Certified Damage Repair centre

                PETALING JAYA: Federal Auto Cars has started full operations as the first Volvo dealer to be certified as the Volvo Certified Damage Repair (VCDR) centre by Volvo Car Malaysia.

The official certification took place on Sept 7 at Federal Auto Cars’ Volvo dealership at Glenmarie in Shah Alam, and was launched by Volvo Car Malaysia managing director Charles Frump.

The VCDR programme ensures that the dealership employs higher quality and standards in the structural repair of Volvo vehicles by investing in modern technology, equipment, processes and training of its people.

The VCDR equipment and processes afford not only a higher level of efficiency and precision compared to non-VCDR concepts, but also emphasises on sustainability by reducing the emission of microscopic particles and energy consumption.

The VCDR facility was jointly designed by Volvo Car Corporation with Federal Auto Cars to construct an optimum layout with high operational efficiency.

With a built-up area of 10,586 sq ft, the facility is said to be equipped with world leading solutions for spray booths, vehicle alignment, welding, as well as premium paint finish.

Unlike the conventional spray booths, VCDR uses PIVAB spray booths - designed to optimise the heated air flow using automatic controls and monitoring system.

The spray booth is controlled with a 15-inch LCD screen with a web-based operating system.

At normal operation the ventilation is at low speed to keep the power consumption as low as possible and the ventilation is raised when a paint spray gun is connected.

The system uses electricity to heat the air during the drying process, as opposed to fuel, which is more efficient and reduces the emission of greenhouse gases.

The PIVAB spray booth is another step for Federal Auto Cars to contribute to climate sustainability as part of its on-going strategic objectives.

Federal Auto Cars’ VCDR also uses Glasurit water-based paint for all repairs.

The move from conventional solvent-based paint to water-based paint not only maintains a high, if not higher, aesthetic outcome and reduces the exposure of their employees to chemicals but it also reduces the emission of microscopic particles to the environment, all while maintaining the superior finishing to the body of Volvo vehicles.

Federal Auto Cars has also invested in the newest Car-O-Liner system, which meets Volvo’s standards on repair quality. The Car-O-Liner alignment and straightening system used by the VCDR centre has the anchoring and holding system together with the electronic measuring system that is specific to Volvo models and can handle every Volvo car anchoring and fixturing situations imaginable.

Apart from the alignment system, the VCDR has an array of special tools used to perform any body or mechanical repairs on Volvo cars. The equipment is also specifically selected for high-speed welding and improving the quality and precision in the facility that caters to Volvo’s vehicle body repair quality.

Another important aspect of Federal Auto Cars’ VCDR is that it only uses genuine Volvo parts and is situated together with their Volvo Glenmarie service and repair outlet, allowing customers access to a worry free and complete care for their Volvo vehicles, even if it is a repair on a minor dent or scratch while servicing their vehicles.

Technicians are fully trained on Volvo’s VCDR repair process flow and certified by Car-O-Liner and Glasurit.

From now until Dec 31, customer can enjoy up to 30% off on Body Paint Specials, along with other offers.

For more information, contact Volvo Certified Damage Repair Centre, +6016 – 248 0878.


Two cheaper Tesla Model S variants introduced

                SAN FRANCISCO: Electric carmaker Tesla Motors Inc said on Thursday it would offer two slightly lower-priced versions of its electric Model S sedan, starting at US$66,000 in the US market.

The current Model S starts around US$76,000 and is often delivered to customers at a price of about US$100,000. Prices are before tax incentives are applied.

The new versions, the rear-wheel drive Model S 60 and the all-wheel drive Model S 60D, will have slightly less range than the Model S already sold. The Model S 60D starts at US$71,000 in the US market.

The newer models will have a range of more than 320km, Tesla said in a statement.

The Model S 60 and Model S 60D will be sold with a battery pack with a capacity of 75 kilowatt-hours, but will be limited to a capacity of 60 kWh. Tesla said owners will have the option to get a software upgrade to allow the car to have a capacity of 75 kWh and the longer range it provides.

Analyst Joseph Spak of RBC Capital said the upgrade option will cost US$8,500 at purchase or US$9,000 after purchase.

A 60 kWh battery has an estimated range of 350km for the rear-wheel drive Model S 60 and 337km for the Model S 60D, Tesla'a website shows.

The upgrade to the 75 kWh battery pack will add about 64km of range to each model.

Tesla in 2012 offered a 60 kWh Model S version priced starting about US$70,000 but it was discontinued last year. Tesla says the two newer Model S versions offer more capabilities than the discontinued one.

Tesla has said it will produce between 80,000 and 90,000 electric cars in 2016 and that it can make 500,000 by 2018. Most of those are expected to be Model S cars. In the first quarter, Tesla produced 14,820 vehicles, of which 12,851 were Model S and 2,659 were Model X sports utility vehicle.

Tesla plans a new car, the Model 3, which is to be a more affordable sedan, starting around US$35,000, to go to market in late 2017.


Ford equips new Explorer with 3 sound-reducing features for quietest ride yet

                DETROIT: Ford's new 2020 Explorer will feature the quietest cabin in the brand's portfolio thanks to a dual-wall dashboard, acoustic glass, and Active Noise Control technology.

The newest version of Ford's classic Explorer is powered by a 400hp engine capable of towing 2,268kg. An engine that powerful is sure to roar pretty loudly; however, thanks to three layers of sound-reducing features and technology, the brand claims this cabin is the "quietest interior ever."

Installing a dual-wall dashboard between the engine compartment and passenger cabin is just one of three methods Ford used to keep the "vroom out of the room."

 The dual-wall dashboard, a first-for-Ford innovation.

Two walls of sheet-metal with an air gap in between work to keep vibration noises out, mimicking a semi-anechoic chamber. Basically, this is similar to the insulation technique used to keep drinks hot or cold in a thermos.

To keep the wind and road noise from entering the cabin, the glass used for the windshield and front side was doubled up and buffered with a sheet of clear plastic in between.

Lastly, Ford integrated Active Noise Control technology - only into the Explorer Limited Hybrid, though - to neutralise low and mid-frequency noise. This is a method of placing microphones throughout the cabin to pick up noises and cancel them out by "producing opposing sound waves that come through the audio system speakers."

 Active Noise Control.

While the dual-wall dashboard and acoustic glass windows work together to keep noise from entering the cabin, the Active Noise Control system combats those leftover sounds that manage to get inside.

Though Ford is certainly not the first to use these noise-reducing features - Mercedes and Lexus have several models sporting acoustic glass and Active Noise Control tech, while Bose developed an in-car Active Noise Control system that can be integrated into any vehicle during development - its cabin is likely one of the most quiet out there considering that it features all three at once.

The 2020 Ford Explorer will arrive in US dealerships this summer with a starting price of under US$33,000 (RM135,000).


Electric trucks produce far fewer emissions than diesel, says EU report

                PARIS: Electric trucks produce far fewer planet-warming emissions than their diesel counterparts over a lifetime, a report in Europe showed Tuesday, emphasizing that the biggest climate impact comes from driving vehicles and not manufacturing them.

The transport sector accounts for about 30 percent of greenhouse gas emissions in the European Union, the biggest contributor in the bloc. Heavy vehicles like trucks and buses account for about a quarter of those transport emissions.

A fully electric 40-tonne tractor-trailer emits 63 percent lower emissions compared to diesel trucks over 1.3 million kilometres travelled, according to new research Tuesday from the International Council on Clean Transportation (ICCT) think tank.

This calculation accounts for the emissions associated with the extraction of raw materials, construction and maintenance of the vehicle using the EU's average electricity grid mix.

"The problem is not the factory but the road," said Nikita Pavlenko, ICCT's fuels team lead.

"The high greenhouse gas intensity of driving a truck during its whole life offsets the (greenhouse gas) emissions generated during manufacturing or the production of the fuel, or the energy it consumes."

The research found that emissions will fall even more as the EU's electricity grid further decarbonises, enabling an 84-percent reduction of emissions when using only renewable sources of power.

It also found that trucks and buses using natural gas provide marginal emissions reductions, just four to 18 percent lower than their diesel counterparts.

Methane, which leaks from vehicles using natural gas and throughout the production and supply of the gas, is a significant driver of those emissions.

While more electric buses and light vehicles are on the road throughout the EU, diesel still powered 99 percent of trucks sold in Europe in 2021.


Special Casio EDIFICE watch to mark 1961 Honda RC162 motorcycle feat

                TOKYO: Casio Computer Co has released the EQS-930HR, the fifth collaboration model with Honda Racing in the EDIFICE line of high-performance metal chronographs based on the brand concept of "Speed and Intelligence."

Honda Racing refers to the motor sports activities that Honda Motor Co., Ltd. pursues around the world. The collaboration between Honda Racing and EDIFICE, both of which originated in Japan, began in 2018.

The year 2021 marks the 60th anniversary of the 1961 Honda victory in Round 2 of the 250cc Grand Prix in West Germany, where Kunimitsu Takahashi became the first Japanese rider to win a motorcycle road racing world championship.

Designed to evoke the classic Honda RC162 bike that powered Takahashi to victory, the EQS-930HR pays homage to this historic feat.

The watch's bezel and dial feature special processing to evoke the bike's hammered aluminum fairing.

The black dial is accented with red inspired by the RC162's fuel tank, and silver, the color of the bike's body, and it is emblazoned with the striking yellow line motif and Honda logo as it appeared in 1961. The genuine leather band calls to mind the racing suit to evoke the scene of the legendary race.

This new watch is based on the EQS-930, with its sporty form. Like the EQS-930, it uses Casio's shadow-dispersing solar cells under the inset dials to ensure that the smaller amount of light that gets through the design-packed dial is still plenty to power the watch for stable operation and great efficiency.


Need to power up EV adoption

                PETALING JAYA: Electric vehicle (EV) sales are on the rise and while that is a good thing, there is growing concern over the lack of infrastructure to support these relatively environment-friendly vehicles.

Experts and stakeholders said the number of charging stations should be increased to keep up with the higher sales of EVs.

They also called on the government to roll out more incentives to further develop the segment.

Universiti Teknologi PETRONAS Centre of Automotive Research and Electric Mobility researcher Mohd Syaifuddin Mohd said there is a need for more fast-charging infrastructure to be placed at R&R (rest and recreation) facilities along highways, petrol stations and hypermarket parking lots.

“This can address the issue of ‘range anxiety’ whereby drivers are afraid of being stranded for long periods due to a lack of fast-charging infrastructure, while also encouraging much larger EV adoption by the public.

“More expensive EVs with larger battery packs can travel farther on a single charge, but their steep prices are a deterrent.
“The charge time also depends on the size of the battery pack, charging power output, as well as to which percentage you are charging your EV to,” said the university’s mechanical engineering department lecturer.

For a 48 kilowatt per hour (kWh) battery pack, Mohd Syaifuddin said a charge from 30% to 100% could take the entire night on a regular household power outlet.

“Fast chargers at higher power capacities can however charge one’s battery pack to about 80% in under an hour.

“The reason for it charging up to 80% and (taking) longer to reach 100% is because of the lowering of the charging current due to higher internal resistance and lower charging efficiency,” he said.

READ MORE: Thailand's EV registrations take giant leap — over 450% in December

He added that this is similar to how balloons become progressively harder to inflate once they approach their maximum size.

Malay Vehicle Importers and Traders Association of Malaysia vice-president Raja Petra Marudin Raja Nordin said there are many factors to consider when building EV charging stations.

“Power supply limitations are a major criterion when it comes to building charging stations in existing locations such as showrooms.

“Building them can also be quite tedious as we need to ensure that the power supply in a particular spot is not limited,” he said.

He added that premises would have to apply for power increments if their existing power supply is insufficient to handle such stations.

“The possibility of an increment is also dependent on the availability of the nearest power substation,” said Raja Petra Marudin, adding that the authorities should address this issue.

BMW Group Malaysia managing director and chief executive officer Hans de Visser said a consolidated platform is needed to allow EV users to identify, reserve and access charging facilities nationwide.

“Currently, an EV owner has to access multiple apps on their digital devices in order to access charging sites. This should be streamlined to one main app providing a gateway to multiple sites.

“Additionally, incentives to encourage charging point operators are needed to encourage more companies to invest and create public charging infrastructure for EVs here,” he said.

He added that BMW Group Malaysia delivered over 1,500 EVs in Malaysia, comprising the BMW i3s, BMWiX, BMW iX3, BMWi4 and the MINI Electric.

de Visser said the group also provided its customers with access to over 610 charging locations nationwide, with the number continuing to rise.

“Moving forward, we will also be looking to announce more partnerships to provide increased charging access for our customers this year, including at Tenaga Nasional Bhd Electron sites,” he said.

Research house RHB Research had earlier said that the EV segment was expected to remain bright in 2023, given how more new models from manufacturers such as BMW, Kia, Peugeot and Toyota would be entering the domestic market.

Research unit Fitch Solutions had also forecast that passenger EV sales in Malaysia would jump 45.6% in 2023 to 4,449 units.

According to Malaysian Auto-motive Association president Datuk Aishah Ahmad, 2,093 EVs were registered in December last year. — GERARD GIMINO


Proton offers free 20-point check

                SHAH ALAM: Take your Proton to the service centres and let the experts do a free on-site 20-point check.

In addition, customers who service their cars using Petronas Syntium SE 3000 and Syntium SE 800 engine oil at any Proton outlet will be entitled to an exclusive inverted umbrella or the Rolson screwdriver set respectively.

This offer is valid until 15th June 2018 or while stocks last.

"Over the years, Proton has organised the free 20-point check before our customers Balik Kampung for the festive holidays. It is quite essential for the driver's peace of mind and this also help ensure that your loved ones who are riding with you, are kept safe and comfortable in the long journey. When you know your Proton is in the best condition, your celebration becomes even better, and your Proton car can become part of your memorable journeys in life for the long run,” said Proton Edar CEO Abdul Rashid Musa.

For travellers heading to the north, south and east coast and who would like to get their cars inspected, Proton also has staff stationed at selected Petronas stations, where the Proton service team will perform the necessary quick checks.

Below are the details:

For more information, customers can contact Proton Customer Care at 1800 888 398.

Below are reasons why you should visit a Proton service centre and go for the free 20-point check.

The check points can be categorised into three major areas - Engine Room, Exterior and Interior, and this complimentary service is provided with the current lubricant promotion.

Engine room

Your Proton expert technician will look at these points:

 Engine oil level
 Transmission fluid check
 Power steering hydraulic fluid
 Brake fluid level
 Coolant level
 Wind screen washer fluid
 Wiper blades
 Battery performance
 Front end alternator belt
 Radiator cap

Exterior

They are round and black but they ensure you stay on the tarmac. Proton's technicians will help you check your:

 Tyre air pressure
 Tyre tread - Proton recommends tread to be a minimum 1.6 mm thick
 Physical condition of the tyres - damaged tyres like a cut can be dangerous and you cannot see the back of your tyre!

Interior

These are more intimate areas but you definitely need to have them in tip-top condition.

 Brake and clutch pedal free play
 Parking brake adjustment
 Switches, lighting and indicators
 Horn operation
 Safety belt harnesses and points
 Visual check on shock absorbers, brake and fuel pipes and lines

Now the checks do not take a lot of time and there are devices and tools required to check on the items, which means it is best to take your Proton to the service centres and let the experts do it for you!


Harley-Davidson to cut hundreds of jobs as part of turnaround strategy

                CHICAGO: Harley-Davidson Inc on Thursday said it will lay off 500 employees this year as part of new CEO Jochen Zeitz’s efforts to revive the struggling motorcycle maker.

As part of the overhaul, CFO John Olin will leave the company effective immediately. Darrell Thomas, treasurer, will become interim chief financial officer, it said.

Harley-Davidson’s sales have been declining for the past five years in the United States, its largest market, as its baby-boomer customer base ages.

The economic pain caused by the coronavirus pandemic has further dented retail demand.

In response to weak sales, the Milwaukee-based company has cut production, leading to 140 job cuts last month at its factories in Pennsylvania and Wisconsin.

The latest cuts are in addition to those layoffs, a company spokeswoman said.

Zeitz, who took over in February, is hailed for turning around the Puma brand’s near-bankrupt business.

His restructuring strategy, dubbed The Rewire, is aimed at making Harley a leaner and more nimble organization.

It seeks to reset product lines, focus on the company’s core strengths and prioritize profitable markets.

“Significant changes are necessary, and we must move in new directions,” Zeitz said.

Harley said the measures announced on Thursday will lay the foundation for a five-year strategic plan to revive sales that the company expects to share in the fourth quarter.

In all, the restructuring will eliminate 700 positions globally.

It will result in a US$50 million restructuring charge in 2020, including US$42 million in the second quarter.

While the overhaul is expected to be completed by the end of the year, Harley said it will likely cause additional restructuring charges in 2021.


Top Toyota scientist says world lacks the resources to go all-EV

Pratt.
HIROSHIMA: Toyota Motor Corp.’s top scientist warned that transitioning to electric vehicles too quickly could lead drivers to hold on to old gas guzzlers and called for hybrids to be given a longer leash ahead of a Group of Seven leaders summit in Japan.

Subsidies and restrictions targeting combustion cars will make EVs attractive for customers who can afford them, but gas-electric vehicles remain a better fit for other consumers, Gill Pratt, Toyota’s chief scientist and chief executive officer of the Toyota Research Institute, told reporters here today.

It’s an oft-repeated argument from the world’s No. 1 carmaker: that the transition to fully electric vehicles will take longer than people expect, and that a multi-pronged approach that includes hybrids and other alternatives will reduce emissions faster in the meantime.

Environmental groups have criticised Toyota for taking too long to go fully electric and letting Elon Musk’s Tesla Inc. and China’s BYD Co. take the EV lead.

“Eventually, resource limitations will end, but for many years we will not have enough battery material and renewable recharging resources for a BEV-only solution,” Pratt said, referring to battery-electric vehicles.

READ MORE: UMW Toyota Motor testing bZ4X EV as part of multi-pathway strategy to decarbonise local roads

“Battery materials and renewable charging infrastructure will eventually be plentiful,” he said. “But it will take decades for battery material mines, renewable-power generation facilities, transmission lines and seasonal energy-storage facilities to scale up.”

While Toyota and other Japanese carmakers pioneered hybrid technology, they’ve trailed Tesla, BYD and others in ramping up EV output. Several have promised to rapidly expand production in the next few years.

Battery-electric vehicles “are an extremely important option,” Akio Toyoda, chair of both Toyota and the Japan Automobile Manufacturers Association, said during a briefing Thursday.

Throughout his 14-year tenure as Toyota’s CEO, which ended in April, the grandson of the company’s founder was both lauded and criticised for his belief in an approach that involved selling hybrids, fuel cell vehicles and other alternatives alongside BEVs.

Critics including Greenpeace have questioned whether Toyoda’s strategy square with the carmaker’s goal to halve emissions by 2035 and become carbon neutral by the middle of the century, an assertion that he’s refuted.

“The goal is to do something about global warming,” Toyoda said. “The mutual enemy is carbon dioxide.”

Koji Sato, the new Toyota CEO who took over in April, has said Toyota will sell 1.5 million BEVs annually by 2026 and roll out 10 new fully electric models.

The world’s largest vehicle manufacturer sold 38,000 BEVs in the fiscal year that ended in March and has targeted 200,000 for the current fiscal year,

In April, G7 environment and energy ministers pledged to reduce vehicle emissions by 2035 but stopped short of announcing any deadlines or interim goals after a meeting in Hokkaido, Japan.


US talks with GM over deploying self-driving cars without steering wheels

                WASHINGTON: The US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is holding talks with General Motors Co on the automaker’s petition to deploy a limited number of self-driving vehicles on American roads without steering wheels or other human controls, the head of the agency said on Friday.

Acting NHTSA Administrator James Owens said his agency aims to make a decision soon on GM’s January 2018 petition as well as a request by Softbank Corp-backed driverless delivery startup Nuro to deploy a limited number of low-speed, highly automated delivery vehicles without human occupants.

The agency’s review comes at a time of heightened concerns about the safety of automated piloting systems in vehicles and aircraft, a potential revolution in ground and air transportation.

“I expect we’re going to be able to move forward with these petitions soon - as soon as we can,” Owens said, adding action “definitely” would come next year.

“This will be a big deal because this will be the first such action that will be taken,” Owens said.

GM, the No. 1 US automaker, confirmed it has been in talks with NHTSA about the petition. Nuro also confirmed it is in talks with NHTSA.

GM chief executive Mary Barra and US Transportation Secretary Elaine Chao met the week before and discussed the petition at a high level, officials said, but significant work remains at the technical level. Owens said NHTSA officials are “crawling through these petitions because we want to make sure” they are at least as safe as cars on the roads.

“There’s a lot of back and forth between us and the companies,” Owens said during a Reuters interview that also included Chao and other Transportation Department officials. “We’re sharing with them thoughts and ideas and concerns. They come back to us with additional information.”

Chao said it is important that the NHTSA take its time in reviewing the GM petition. Chao suggested that some auto industry officials and analysts were too optimistic about the timing for deployment of fully autonomous vehicles.

“I think the complexity was far greater than what a lot of very optimistic advocates were thinking,” Chao said.

In GM’s petition, NHTSA is for the first time looking at a vehicle in which all driving decisions are made by a computer rather than a human driver. Nuro, which partnered with Kroger Co last year to deliver groceries, seeks approval not to include a windshield in the vehicle.

The petitions - formal applications for action by the agency - seek exemptions from US vehicle safety rules largely written decades ago that assumed human drivers would be in control of a vehicle. The petitions are for up to 2,500 vehicles per manufacturer.

GM initially said it hoped to win approval to deploy the vehicles by the end of this year. But in July its self-driving unit, Cruise, said it was delaying commercial deployment of cars as more testing of the vehicles was required without specifying a new target date.

Alphabet Inc’s Waymo unit this year began offering some rides with no human driver in its limited autonomous ride-hailing service in Arizona, but with steering wheels and employees watching remote feeds of the vehicles’ cameras.

“We’re in communication with them about how they are ensuring the safe operation of the vehicle,” Owens said. “We will continue having a back and forth with them.”


June 20-26: Fuel prices keep rising

                PETALING JAYA: Fuel prices will be on the rise again with RON95 and RON97 up three sen with diesel getting bumped up by four sen.

The Finance Ministry said RON97 petrol would be priced at RM1.89 per litre, up by three sen from RM1.86 per litre previously for the period of June 20-26.

The price of RON95 petrol will also increase three sen from RM1.56 per litre to RM1.59 per litre, while diesel is up by four sen to RM1.77 per litre from RM1.73.

The ministry said that the higher fuel prices were due to the increase in refined product prices, in line with the rise in global crude oil prices.

“The government will continue to monitor the impact of the global crude oil price change and take appropriate measures to ensure the welfare and well-being of the people," it said in a statement on Friday (June 19).

The weekly fuel pricing mechanism was reintroduced on Jan 5, 2019, under the Automatic Pricing Mechanism (APM).

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


Aiming to make smarter cars, BMW buys stake in machine intelligence company

                SAN FRANCISCO: BMW is investing in a machine intelligence company whose expertise it hopes to use in data centres and its cars.

The funding in two-year-old Graphcore was made through BMW subsidiary i Ventures BMW did not disclose details of the investment but Graphcore said the Munich car maker and Microsoft were some of the investors that helped it raise US$200mil (RM837mil) in the latest funding round.

Graphcore’s Intelligence Processing Unit (IPU) is the first processor to be designed specifically for Machine Intelligence and delivers higher speeds compared to conventional hardware.

“The versatility of Graphcore’s IPU – which supports multiple machine learning techniques with high efficiency – is well-suited for a wide variety of applications from intelligent voice assistants to self-driving vehicles,” said Tobias Jahn, Principal at BMW i Ventures.

“With the flexibility to use the same processor in both a data center and a vehicle, Graphcore’s IPU also presents the possibility of reductions in development times and complexity.”

Graphcore has raised over US$300m in funding and is based in Bristol, UK, with offices in London, Oslo, Beijing and Palo Alto in the United States.

The BMW investment is a further step towards meeting the company’s ambition to build a global technology company, focused on this new and fast-growing machine intelligence market.


Hyundai Motor to take a fresh crack at Japan sales

                TOKYO: South Korea's Hyundai Motor Co said today it is returning to Japan 12 years after leaving because of poor sales, as growing demand for electric vehicles offers a fresh opening in a market dominated by Toyota Motor.

Hyundai said it will sell its Nexo SUV hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicle and its Ioniq 5 midsize crossover electric vehicle (EV), which is at the heart of the company's attempt to capture 10% of global EV sales by 2025.

"We haven't yet set a target for sales, but we will try to provide more information once we begin taking orders online in May," the head of Hyundai Mobility Japan, Shigeaki Kato, said at a launch event here.

Hyundai, which along with affiliate Kia Corp dominates neighbouring South Korea's auto market, made its first bid to capture market share in Japan in 2001, but left after selling only 15,000 cars.

Of the five million cars sold in Japan annually around nine tenths are Japanese brands, with Toyota Motor holding around a 40% market share. Outside of luxury models, foreign makers have struggled to chip away at that lead.

Booming demand for EVs, including Tesla Inc models, however, may mean a second chance for legacy manufacturers such as Hyundai, Volkswagen AG and Stellantis, the maker of Peugeot cars.

Although only around 20,000 EVs were sold in Japan last year, the segment grew by almost a half from a year earlier even as overall car sales edged down. Imports of EVs jumped almost three times to a record 8,610 vehicles, according to the Japan Automobile Importers Association.

In a video message at the presentation in Tokyo, Hyundai CEO Jaehoon Chang apologised for the car company's departure 12 years ago. Only 600 Hyundai cars were still driving in Japan, he added.

This time around, Kato explained, Hyundai will focus on online sales, and is partnering with a car sharing service operated by online social gaming company DeNA Co and insurance company Sompo Holdings that lets private car owners rent out their vehicles.


Lancia badge to return with a slew of new models

                BERLIN: The languishing, once-great brand of Lancia is poised for a grand comeback, starting with an electrified version of the Ypsilon minicar.

Marque boss Luca Napolitano confirmed that the runabout will return in 2024 followed two years later by a flagship crossover bearing the name Aurelia, one of Lancia's most famous bygone models.

Lancia, Alfa Romeo and DS plan to offer only electric models from 2030 onwards, said Napolitano.

A revived Delta saloon has also been pencilled in: "It will return and it will be a true Delta – an exciting car, a manifesto of progress and technology, and obviously it will be electric," the manager earlier told the Corriere Della Sera newspaper.

Lancia produced three generations of the Delta before dropping the model from its range without a successor.

The first version in 1979 was designed by Giorgetto Giugiaro and it stayed in production with numerous updates until 1994.

Owner Stellantis is keen to revive Lancia as a premium brand using the concern's technical platform which also underpins its Alfa Romeo and DS models.

For decades Lancias were known for elegant styling, with the Flaminia and later the upmarket Thesis.

The brand withdrew from many markets in 2017 after its image had been watered down for years by a series of badge-engineered Chrysler models which carried the Italian moniker.

Lancia still sells a combustion-engined version of the Ypsilon in Italy but the car is not exported.


Maserati Grecale SUV debuts in Malaysia

                KUALA LUMPUR: The Maserati Grecale made a swift entry into Malaysia - barely three months after its world premiere.

It comes in three variants: 300hp GT, 330hp Modena and 530hp Trofeo.

All three variants will be available in Malaysia. The SUV is open for pre-booking now.

Naza Italia - Maserati has yet to firm up the pricing, which will be announced once the model appears in the local showroom towards year-end. But expect the Grecale Trofeo to be in the RM500,000 range.

Taking its name from a wind, like its elder sister Levante, the Grecale is produced in Stellantis' Cassino plant, in central Italy.

The Trofeo variant has a 3.0 litre twin turbo V6 Nettuno engine, capable of a top speed of 285kph.

The lower variants use a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder mild hybrid engine.

The Trofeo unit at the launch ceremony today is on a world tour, and will only be in Malaysia until Sunday before heading to Singapore.

With a length of 4.859 metres, the Grecale will compete with models including Porsche's Macan, Mercedes' GLE, BMW's X5 and Land Rover's Discovery.

The new SUV stands out in terms of spaciousness and comfort, boasting an impressive set of “best-in-class” features.

It is best-in-class in terms of its interior space, driveability, handling, and acceleration, top speed, sound quality and extensive use of fine materials such as wood, carbon fibre and leather.

The design of the Grecale embraces Maserati’s new visual symbol, which distinguishes every new model since the MC20.

The front features a low and imposing grille. The profile is notable for its contrast between purity and technique, with a highly fluid body featuring meandering, visual forms and its technical components highlighted by the use of carbon fibre.

In the rear, the boomerang taillights are inspired by the Giugiaro 3200 GT and fit in with the trapezoidal line, made more striking by the coupé effect of the cabin and its finish like a sports car's.

Inside the cabin, the standout tech specs include the traditional Maserati clockface. Digital for the first time, it transforms into an in-car concierge, courtesy of voice control.

The new Maserati Vehicle Dynamic Control Module (VDCM) system offers up to five drive modes: COMFORT, GT, SPORT, CORSA (Trofeo only) and OFF-ROAD.

Everything has become touch-based. The technology is controlled from the displays: the large 12.3” central screen, the largest ever seen in a Maserati, another 8.8” display for the extra controls and a third for the passengers in the rear seats.

An optional state-of-the-art heads-up display is available.

The in-car experience can be managed from the Maserati Intelligent Assistant (MIA) Multimedia system, from the infotainment and from Maserati Connect.

The in-car audio system is provided by the Sonus faber 3D sound system, which is specified with either 14 speakers or 21 speakers.

Maserati had announced in March that a full-electric version of the Grecale will be available next year, widening the pool of potential competitors to Tesla.

Naza Italia–Maserati chief operating officer Farid Sulaiman said the Maserati SUV had attracted a lot of attention in Malaysia, which he was optimistic would translate into sales.

He said this was "based on the volume of enquiries and pre-orders we have received thus far."

"We believe it will be the game changer for Maserati in Malaysia.”

The introduction of the Grecale marks another step in the promised expansion of the automaker's range as part of a turnaround strategy.

Initially planned for November last year, the international launch of the new model had been delayed due to a global chip shortage.

Maserati aims to offer a so-called "Folgore" full-electric version of each model - including the over €200,000 (RM947,000) super sport car MC20 - by 2025 and to be entirely full-electric by 2030.

Its first battery electric vehicle (BEV) will be the new GranTurismo, due to debut before the electric Grecale in 2023.

Warranty for the Grecale is three years with no mileage restriction.

Contact Naza Italia - Maserati showroom at tel: 03 7956 8599 or 1700 81 5051 in Petaling Jaya, Selangor for more information.

Follow www.facebook/maserati.malaysia and @maserati.malaysia (Instagram) for the brand’s latest updates in Malaysia.

> SPECIFICATIONS (pdf)

Grecale Modena

Grecale GT


Aston Martin DB11 successor to be unveiled on May 24

                LONDON: Aston Martin is set to take the wraps off the DB11 successor on May 24.

It has released some teaser photos of the new model many believe to be called the DB12 as suggested by a trademark filing of the name by the car maker.

In a hyped-up statement Aston Martin issued today, it said the new sports car would "break free from the norms of the GT sector, creating a new category of one celebrating 75 years of Aston Martin’s iconic DB bloodline of exceptional hand-built British sportscars."

The photos taken in low lighting showed the front, centre console with buttons and carbon fibre trim as well as a side view of the car.

The "DB12" shows off a sleek profile with a long bonnet and a cabin that's pushed rearwards in the "Golden Ratio" tradition that Aston Martin has followed for models it has built.

Some form of electrification is expected to boost performance and hopefully lighten the car. The interior design and safety tech would also be updated for the 21st Century as alluded to in its statement that the DB11 replacement model would be a foretaste of new Aston Martins with huge performance, sharp driving dynamics, integration of advanced technologies and the brand's signature craftsmanship.


Motor insurance claims ripe for digitalisation

                PETALING JAYA: The insurance industry is experiencing some technologically-driven changes with the impending digitalisation of motor claims. This is in relation to the way claims are processed, making the process more efficient and convenient for both the insurer and takaful operators (ITOs) and policyholders.

Last year, Bank Negara called on general ITOs to improve customers’ claims experience and outcomes by going digital, in line with the aspirations set out in its Financial Sector Blueprint 2022-2026.

The push for digitalisation in motor insurance claims processes is driven by the industry’s numerous challenges, such as the presence of unsolicited parties pressuring accident victims, concerns regarding towing and repair practices from questionable providers, and the time-consuming nature of traditional claim processes.

The implementation of digital solutions, such as web and mobile apps, can address these issues by fostering connectivity among all stakeholders and providing consumers with a streamlined and efficient experience, says Lau Chin Ching, director of Bank Negara’s financial development and innovation department director.

However, Lau points out that the engagement and collaboration between all stakeholders, including government agencies, is crucial for the successful transformation towards digital motor claims.

“A ‘whole of nation’ approach is necessary due to the involvement of numerous stakeholders throughout the accident or emergency process.

“From contacting tow trucks, insurers, workshops and potentially making claims to involving the police for reporting, a collaborative effort is essential,” she tells StarBizWeek during an interview at Bank Negara’s inaugural Sasana Symposium 2023 forum.

She further explains that the digitalisation of motor claims will be implemented in phases, with the initial phase primarily concentrating on the introduction of digital roadside assistance (DRA), enabling customers to digitally choose workshops and track the location of tow trucks.

In subsequent phases, consumers can also look forward to the implementation of an online police reporting system for accidents and the adoption of digitisation and automation for the assessment of loss and damages, bringing added benefits and convenience to the claims process.

Lau, who says the entire journey is going to take five years as detailed in a roadmap by the central bank, acknowledges that the journey ahead will not be easy but maintains a steadfast confidence in the transformation.

When asked about the anticipated challenges in implementing this initiative, Lau points towards the need to bring all stakeholders together and raise awareness among the public as key factors to address.

“This is due to the presence of numerous stakeholders, including entities that fall outside the direct regulatory of Bank Negara,” she explains.

Meanwhile, Bank Negara assistant governor Suhaimi Ali believes the rollout of DRA is timely, as it has the potential to address the significant losses, estimated at about RM1bil annually, that the insurance industry suffers due to fraud, including exaggerated claims resulting from falsified details.

“We have observed encouraging participation from the ITOs with regard to implementation of the DRA. Almost all general insurance in Malaysia have committed to rolling out the DRA by end-2023,” he said during a panel discussion titled “Driving Insurance and Takaful Digitalisation: A Digital Motor Claims Journey” at the forum.

These players account for more than 95% of the insurance market share, according to him.

Suhaimi also points out that as at the first half of this year, seven out of the 23 licensed general ITOs already offer all the solutions expected under the DRA while others are rolling out in stages.

A chief executive officer of an ITO highlights that his team’s experience has been different, as they prefer to refer to it as a digital enabled claims journey, which starts with DRA and extends to various types of claims, including travel insurance and property damage claims.

Puneet Pasricha, chief executive officer of AMGeneral Insurance, however, believes the change of mindset among public, collective partnership across stakeholders, and the move away from legacy systems are among challenges that the industry would face when embarking on a digitalisation journey for claims.

Fintech Association of Malaysia (FAOM) president Wilson Beh adds, “The comprehensive digital claims initiative, beginning with motor insurance, has the potential to serve as a catalyst for the broader transformation of the insurance industry.”

Wilson points out that the general insurance market in Malaysia accounts for about RM20bil annually, where motor insurance accounts for almost half or about RM10bil.

“The average daily claim payout for motor insurance amounts to about RM13mil per day,” he highlights, adding that in 2022, the motor insurance industry accounted for a negative underwriting year with a net claim incurred ratio of over 60%.

Wilson notes that the introduction of digitalisation, along with the adoption of real-time data analytics, machine learning, and big data, holds significant promise in mitigating fraudulent claims.

Addressing the aspect of cybersecurity, Federation of Malaysian Consumers Associations (Fomca) CEO Saravanan Thambirajah expresses hope that the regulator will play its role in safeguarding data.

Saravanan reveals that Fomca receives about 50,000 complaints related to cyber breaches every year.

Meanwhile Bank Negara’s Suhaimi emphasises the importance of both implementing a framework to prevent cyber breaches and providing education and clear policies on acceptable practices.

He says that for DRA to effectively address consumer needs, it is crucial to raise awareness and educate consumers, to ensure they understand how to make the best use of DRA while following the necessary guidelines.

“What we want to see is efficiency gains all around within the ecosystem, in terms of timeliness of resolving claims processes, the transparency of the process and customers to have a transformative experience,” Suhaimi quips.

With the commitment of general ITOs to establish an end-to-end digital motor insurance and takaful claims settlement system by the end of 2026, the industry is poised for a transformative journey towards a seamless and technologically-driven claims ecosystem.

This transition will not only benefit insurers and policyholders but also contribute to the advancement of the insurance sector as a whole.


Indonesian president pledges nickel mining clean up amid EV-led boom

Jokowi gets a briefing as he visits Solia Hill in Sorowako, South Sulawesi on Thursday. — Reuters
SOROWAKO (Indonesia) : Indonesia will improve monitoring of environmental standards for nickel mining, amid concerns over production of the metal which is increasingly used in electric vehicle batteries, the country's President Joko Widodo said on Thursday.

The country, which has the largest nickel reserves in the world, will step up scrutiny of mining and order companies to manage nurseries to reforest depleted mines, said the president, who is widely known as Jokowi.

Nickel mining and smelting has become a major part of Indonesia's economy, with billions of dollars of global investment flowing in to the country after the government banned exports of unprocessed ore in 2020.

However, environmental groups have said Indonesia's nickel production has polluted key production sites in Sulawesi and Maluku islands, even turning waters in some coastal areas red.

Miners have also been accused of land grabs, while workers in some mines have protested over weak safety standards.

"The most important thing is monitoring. The management control system must be strengthened .. Routine evaluations must be conducted," Jokowi said during an interview at the nickel mining town of Sorowako on Sulawesi island, adding he would ensure all miners follow international best practice.

The development of the electric vehicle (EV) sector in Indonesia is a personal mission for Jokowi, who has been trying to convince Tesla CEO Elon Musk to manufacture EVs or batteries in the sprawling Southeast Asian archipelago.

But indicating concerns over the impact of the industry, dozens of non-governmental organizations last year sent an open letter to Musk, urging him not to invest in Indonesia due to environmental, social and governance (ESG) concerns.

Jokowi said some miners had higher standards than others, praising a local unit of Brazilian miner Vale, which has mined nickel in Sorowako for decades without polluting a nearby lake.

Toxic waste

Jokowi visited PT Vale Indonesia's mine and smelter, which uses energy from three hydropower plants, to see first hand an investment deal with U.S. carmaker Ford Motor Co and China's Zhejiang Huayou Cobalt to build a US$4.5 billion high-pressure acid leaching (HPAL) plant.

"Sustainability is measured in two aspects: how long your reserves last, that's important, and operations of the mines. ESG cannot be bargained for if we want to continue to go forward," he said.

Jokowi said he would only approve new smelter permits if powered by renewable energy sources, which he said would raise the cost of new investment and be an entry barrier.

"We must control our output so that prices do not plunge because of our over production and over supply," he said, noting an influx of investment to process ore into nickel pig iron.

He said existing facilities using coal power would also be given deadlines to change their energy sources into renewables.

More companies are now building HPAL plants, converting low-grade nickel ore into material used in EV batteries, but also producing toxic waste that must be treated and stored.

Vale Indonesia plans to break ground on a second HPAL plant with Huayou in South Sulawesi later this year.

Melky Nahar, of the Mining Advocacy Network (JATAM), said many companies did not comply with standards and questioned if there could be "political will" to enforce environmental rules.

But Jokowi said progress had been made, such as the government forbidding the dumping of tailings in the sea.


New Honda City grows bigger and gets more tech

 The outgoing fourth-generation City.

PETALING JAYA: Could the all-new Honda City that is due to be launched by the year end be even bigger than the current generation? We think so.

If you were to look at the previous Honda City, one of its main selling points was its abundance of space be it the 536 litre boot space which could be increased by folding down the rear seats and the legroom space with the 2,600mm wheelbase.

Currently, the City measures at 4,442mm x 1,694mm x 1,477mm (length x width x height).

The new, fifth generation City which has already launched in other markets have upped the measurements somewhat: 4,549mm x 1,748mm x 1,489mm. Although the wheelbase remains the same at 2,600mm, an increase in height could indicate more headroom space.

It was the third-generation City that started the slick arrowshot profile design in 2008, which continues to evolve to this day.

 The new 1.5 litre engine.

Honda Malaysia teased the new fifth-generation City with the introduction of a new flagship variant, the RS. Now, there are four variants to the new City.

Previously, it came in the entry level S variant, followed by the E variant, and the top-specced V variant.

The new, upcoming City boasts a new 1.5L DOHC i-VTEC engine and the RS includes the new i-MMD powertrain which produces a beefy 253Nm of torque.

We tried the Honda Insight last year during the Tokyo Motor Show period and it consisted of a 1.5 litre engine with the Sport Hybrid i-MMD (intelligent Multi Mode Drive) consisting of an electric two-motor hybrid system mated to an E-CVT transmission.

The Insight electric motor produced 131PS and 267Nm of torque while the combustion engine outputs 109PS and 134Nm of torque.

 The i-MMD electric motor featured in the RS variant of the new City.

It looks like the new City RS is getting a leaner version of the hybrid system but that's okay because there is so much more twisting force than you are getting at 145Nm with the current City.

The top two variants of the new City will also feature LED headlights, taillights and Daytime Running Lights and more importantly, it gets the Honda LaneWatch safety system.

Now, the LaneWatch is a camera system which projects the left side of the car when you engage the turn signal. This means the new City will probably come with a much bigger display on the dashboard (freestanding maybe).

 The LaneWatch system employs a camera below the left wing mirror.

Currently, the touchscreen display is at 17.3cm while the new City (according to the overseas spec) measures at 20.3cm.

We should also expect it to feature Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity and maybe even voice command and an improved sound system.

We sure hope so because that would mean the cabin will be better sound-proofed to cancel external noise and makes for a comfortable experience for the driver and passengers.

 The Electric Parking Brake and Brake Hold switch.

The new RS variant also features an Electric Parking Brake (EPB) and the picture provided by Honda Malaysia showed another interesting function: Brake Hold. By pressing the button and coming to a full-stop like at a traffic light, you are able to lift your foot off the brakes and just step on the accelerator when the lights turn green.

Speaking of digital displays, it may also be possible for the RS and V variants to feature an enhanced TFT digital instrument cluster display which features a host of information such as tachometer and speedometer, range and fuel and maybe even a low pressure tyre warning system which is always handy.

So there's a lot to get excited for with the upcoming City although we can't confirm anything other than what was announced by Honda Malaysia but thinking about it sure is fun.

 The third-generation City kicked off the slick arrowshot profile design, which continues to this day.


Toyota City: Symbol of Japan’s auto rise

                Toyota City stands as a testament to the meteoric rise of its namesake, now the world’s biggest carmaker with record profits and sales of more than 10 million cars globally last year.

But this sprawling city of 422,000 people, just east of the industrial centre Nagoya, was once a struggling textiles town called Koromo whose inhabitants depended on silk production to make a living.

Times got tough for the little community as the sector began to decline from the end of World War I, and it was further shaken by the 1923 Great Kanto Earthquake, which took 140,000 lives across the country, as well as the Great Depression six years later.

By 1933, as Japan focused on bolstering its domestic industries and imperial ambitions, Kiichiro Toyoda decided to build automobiles with the same pioneering spirit as his father Sakichi, who invented the automatic loom.

But where could he build a factory big enough to roll out cars? A string of communities were interested. In a stroke of fate, Koromo got the nod for its cheap land and nearby transit links - and the enthusiasm of the town’s then mayor who faced off with sceptical local landowners.

“At that time, people didn’t really believe in the auto industry but he (the mayor) had the right intuition,” a municipal official told AFP, adding that the sector was “crucial for the city’s prosperity”.

And on August 28, 1937, “Toyota Jidosha Kogyo” (Toyota Automotive Industry) was born with a 495,000-square-metre (5.3-million-square-foot) factory big enough for 5,000 workers opened the following year.

While the Corolla and Prius hybrid maker now has plants in every corner of the globe, Toyota City still has a total of 10 factories building cars and parts in the city proper and surrounding area.

There are about 70,000 local people working for Toyota in the area, many whose parents or grandparents also relied on the giant company for a pay cheque, with about 40 percent of local employees working in the auto sector.

So it seemed appropriate that, in 1959, the town changed its name to Toyota-Shi, or Toyota City in English, although that was a controversial move at the time -- and the current mayor says his community is about more than just one industry.

“It is true that this is the city of the car -- the name speaks for itself - but that isn’t everything,” says Toshihiko Ota. “We are the leading producer of rice in Aichi prefecture and we also grow grapes and pears. Toyota City has many faces, which is sometimes masked by cars.”

But the reality is, despite efforts to diversify the local economy, it is still heavily dependent on Toyota and local suppliers, with the company’s subsidiaries also involved in real estate, tourism, and insurance.

“When Toyota coughs, the whole city catches a cold” is a common phrase, a point underlined during the 2008 financial crisis that saw Toyota lay off thousands of temporary employees, while tax revenue from the company temporarily dipped.

“The atmosphere was morose, it depressed the entire region,” the mayor says.

Still, the city avoided the fate of another auto city, Detroit, whose declining fortunes saw it declare bankruptcy two years ago.

And with the recovery came a renewed optimism for Toyota City, beefed up by municipal projects including new schools and hospitals... sponsored by Toyota.


Ministry moving to speed up RON95 petrol resupply, says Nanta

                PUTRAJAYA: Two short-term measures have been taken to overcome the RON95 supply issue encountered in several areas recently, a problem partly due to delays in the delivery of fuel to port terminals, said Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi.

He said the first step was getting the cooperation of the Transport Ministry to speed up the process of releasing oil tankers delivering the fuel.

Secondly, the Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Ministry was continuously monitoring the situation to prevent any irregularities in the supply of vehicle fuel, especially RON95 petrol, he said in a statement today.

He said delays by tankers in delivering fuel to the terminals at Bagan Luar in Penang and Kuantan in Pahang had contributed to the fuel shortage during the Aidilfitri holiday period.

Other factors which caused the fuel shortage were a marked increase in the number of vehicles on the roads and storage tank capacity issues at some stations, he added.

"The ministry would like to suggest that for the time being, motorists switch to other nearby oil brands which they don't normally use, as not all petrol stations faced this problem of disruption in supply," he said.

Nanta said the ministry had taken early action by holding engagement sessions with the Petrol Dealers Association of Malaysia (PDAM) to ensure service station operators could meet the demand during the Aidilfitri celebration this year.

The ministry had expected an unprecedented increase in the number of vehicles following the country's transition to the endemic phase of Covid-19 and reopening of its borders, which allowed the people to return to their hometowns, he said.

He said in anticipation of a surge in demand, the ministry also allowed all petrol stations throughout the country to increase their fuel stocks.

Under the Scheduled Controlled Goods Licensing Guidelines, the limits for stocks of petroleum products, diesel and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) were set based on a support letter from the Fire and Rescue Department.

"As such, every station has their own storage limit based on the size of the premises and underground tank system" he said.


Behold the Ford GT Competition Series edition

                DETROIT: A new track-focused, stripped out version of Ford's already fast and somewhat exclusive supercar is to make its global debut in Daytona this weekend

The special edition car is bristling with weight-saving technologies so that it has an even lower centre of gravity for even better handling at high speeds.

For example, it rides on carbon fibre wheels as standard, has an acrylic engine cover, and the partition window behind the driver is now made from super-thin yet super strong Gorilla Glass.

"The Competition Series was developed with the most hardcore track enthusiasts in mind, providing a tailored set of lightweight features," said Raj Nair, Ford executive vice president, global product development.

And the weight-saving efforts don't stop at clever use of plastics or carbon. Ford has also jettisoned every unnecessary creature comfort that comes on the standard car including cup holders, storage bins, speakers, air conditioning, the infotainment system and its screen.


Many parents downplay need for helmets

                MALACCA: “It is just a short distance” is often an excuse used by motorists for not wearing a motorcycle helmet when sending children to school.

However, state Transport Committee chairman Datuk Mohd Sofi Abdul Wahab said this excuse must never be used as accidents could happen regardless of distance.

He said from his observation, many parents still regarded wearing helmets as trivial, by not wearing it themselves as well as not putting them on their children.

“In the morning and afternoon, parents send or pick up their children from school. This is the peak period, so the probability of accidents happening is higher,” he said.

According to statistics from the Road Safety Department, motorcyclists and pillion riders recorded the highest death rate in Malaysia, with 4,128 deaths from 6,284 road users who died last year.

Mohd Sofi said it was also sad that some parents or guardians wore helmets but their children did not.

“I think that is selfish of the parents or guardians as they are not concerned about the safety of their children,” he said.

He said they were exposing their children to great risk because helmets were important in reducing the risk of head injuries.

“In the event of a blow to the unprotected head, there is a high possibility of nerve damage and death. I hope parents are aware and will be more concerned about the importance of wearing a helmet, especially among children,” said Mohd Sofi, who hoped that schools could help to remind parents and students of the importance of helmets.

He also urged the Road Safety Council Malaysia to revive its helmet-wearing campaign in schools.

Meanwhile, civil servant Mohd Hanafiah Mohd Salim, 46, said the habit of not wearing a helmet when sending or picking up children was common.

“Everybody knows it is a rule to wear a helmet, but when they ride without it every day, they do not see it as a rule, especially when enforcement is lax. The enforcers should set up roadblocks near schools and issue warnings to motorists,” he said.

A private college lecturer, Sarimah Ismail, 42, also said that many parents did not use correctly sized helmets for children.

“In the event of an accident, an oversized helmet would come off and fail to protect the child’s head. Some also use helmets which are worn out with broken straps or are cracked,” said the mother-of-three.


2017 Honda Civic hatchback debuts in America

                NEW YORK: The next-generation Honda Civic hatchback has made its North American debut in prototype form just a day before the 2016 New York International Auto Show.

Being built on the same platform as the 10th-generation Civic Sedan, the 2017 Civic Hatchback will feature one powertrain for the U.S. market, a 1.5-liter DOHC direct-injected Turbo engine that can be mated to either a sporty CVT or a slick-shifting 6-speed manual transmission.

"The Civic Hatchback wraps the 10-generation Civic platform and five-door hatchback utility in emotional, Euro-inspired styling," said Jeff Conrad, senior vice president and general manager of the Honda Division of American Honda Motor.

The 2017 Civic Hatchback was developed by the joint efforts of Honda R&D teams in Europe and Japan.

The 2017 Civic Hatchback will be produced exclusively at the Honda of the UK Manufacturing (HUM) plant in Swindon.


Hankook and Vibram present their handiwork

                SEOUL: In a cross-industry-collaboration Hankook Tire and Vibram have come together to develop futuristic concept tyres and shoes to unveil five products – two off-road concept tyres from Hankook and three concept shoes from Vibram.

Hankook has now utilized Vibram's hyper-functional design for its latest concept tyres, while simultaneously enabling Vibram to integrate cutting-edge tyre technologies into its footwear offerings.

The Korean tyre maker will unveil its DynaMIX and DynaSYNC off road tyres, while Vibram will reveal its DynaTREK, DynaSTRYKE BKL, and Omnifuse, which will replace Vibram’s FiveFingers lineup.

Construction of the DynaMIX and DynaSYNC tyres were inspired by the flexible blocks found on the outer soles of Vibram's hiking shoes.

These blocks are designed to change their contact positions in response to variations in ground surface. The use of different layer structures also allows for multiple style choices.

The DynaMIX tyres take advantage of Vibram's Ultra-light 3D Cocoon Technology and its multi-direction geometric dimensional blocks serve to protect the tyres from road impacts.

Meanwhile, the traction, block stability and flexibility are improved and sidewall weights have been reduced.

The DynaMIX's three-dimensional tread pattern excels in tough off-road conditions thanks to the texture and design of particular tread blocks in the pattern that have been tailored to maximize overall performance.

The glitter surface of the tire is polished, which enhances handling and wet performance, while at the same time promoting greater control at faster speeds.

Finally, the geometric sidewalls integrate Hankook’s wet-tech holes, enabling the sidewalls to achieve greater flexibility and disperse shocks.

As for the DynaSYNC tyre, it features Vibram's iconic Carrarmato lugs design on its tread pattern to improve traction in mountainous terrain and the honeycomb structure grooves help to prevent puncture or tyre chips from gravel or stones.

This improves shock absorption and provides powerful and safe handling, while the sidewall comes in a variety of colour compounds, allowing car owners to match the tyres to their car.

Lastly, the tyre features a dual-layered sidewall structure, which prevents cracking by enhancing the block’s stiffness and reducing severe deformations during cornering and high-speed manoeuvres.

As for Vibram’s DynaTREK and DynaSTRYKE BKL concept shoes, they have been paired with the DynaMIX and DynaSYNC concept tires, respectively, as sister products.

The DynaTREK boasts a high performance outdoor/hiking outsole, and it uses the same Ultra-light 3D Cocoon Technology found in the DynaMIX compound to provide enhanced protection and shock absorption.

It also sports the DynaMIX's centre stripe around the entire sole, highlighting the collaboration story between the two brands.

The DynaSTRYKE BKL reflects the performance attributes of the DynaSYNC with its Megagrip rubber outsole and the interlocking lugs provide unparalleled winter running performance in a Vibram FiveFingers shoe.

Moreover, a thermochromatic pigment was applied to the DynaSTRYKE BKL, which induces a subzero appearance with the colour shifting at the toes.

Finally, the Omnifuse adapts motifs from conventional tyre products.

"This joint project fits ideally with our ongoing commitment to investing in technological innovations and performance-oriented designs. Moreover,

“From a macro-perspective, the project reflects Hankook Tire's longstanding core company value – progressive innovation. This momentum will be carried forward in the future as the company continues to take an authentic, meaningful approach to meeting the challenges of future driving experience," said Hankook Tire vice chairman and CEO Seung Hwa Suh.


Kawasaki 1400GTR - Adventure time!

                The 1400GTR was introduced in 2006 and this handsome fella has grown and matured technologically.

The Kawasaki Ninja ZX-14-based 1,352cc in-line-four engine with variable valve timing breathes life into the 1400GTR.

The engine has been precisely tuned to deliver smooth power across a wide rev range and pushes out a maximum torque of 139Nm at 6,200 rpm.

The liquid-cooled, 16-valve, engine features variable valve timing for a high torque output at low and medium rpm.

This time around, I decided to take this bike to Fraser’s Hill (Route: Kuala Lumpur - Raub - Fraser’s Hill - Kuala Kubu Baru – Kuala Lumpur).

I was accompanied by three of my regular riding buddies.

The ride from the foothill of Fraser’s Hill to the peak was definitely challenging especially on the countless slippery twisties and tight corners especially after a heavy rain.

Two of my companions who were riding on their easy riders were complaining that their rear tyres lost grip a few times.

But those slippery surfaces did not pose any problem to me.

This is because the 1400GTR is equipped with traction control system that was engineered to deliver smooth riding on any wet roads.

The system monitors the speed differences between front and rear wheels.

Whenever the rear wheel spins much faster then the front wheel, the engine power is reduced to allow the rear wheel to regain grip.

Meanwhile on the way down from the hill, there was so much of braking involved at tight corners and twisties; plus avoiding landslide debris and fallen branches.

At first few tight corners, I was very worried if the bike will be able to stop gently at my command.

Believe me, the braking experience was impeccable.

Kawasaki’s K-ACT (Kawasaki Advanced Coactive-braking Technology) anti-lock braking system (ABS) allowed me to execute controlled and balanced braking.

K-ACT ABS ensures just enough brake force distribution to maximise braking efficiency.

I was so glad that I was riding the 1400GTR.

The 304kg 1400GTR did very well in tackling the twisties and was able to tackle few hairpins like a bike which is half the weight.

That gave me the confidence to flip the bike with gusto.

From the back, it looked like I was dancing with the bike all the way to the peak of Fraser’s Hill and back the foothill.

What puzzled me is why the 1400GTR which was designed for long distance travelling, did not have cruise control.

Most current sports tourers come with this feature which is very much appreciated by riders.

A must mention is that the sound of the horn on this bike is so weak.

It sounded like a kap chai’s squeak and surely a mismatch for the character of this mighty motorcycle.

While doing above just 110kph on the PLUS highway from Kuala Kubu Baru, the engine was revving around the 3,000rpm zone.

At this point the bike was only warming up.

But once the engine goes past the 4,000rpm, 1400GTR would be tearing up the highway effortlessly.

Meanwhile, this RM107,900 tourer does well in the city too.

Countless stops at traffic lights did not tire me despite the weight and size of the machine.

It’s very easy to manoeuvre the bike in tight spaces. You must experience it to believe it.

After riding more than 100km, I realised that the upright sitting position works well for this bike.

The saddle is a bit stiff, and I am assuming it would be uncomfortable for long journey such as from Kuala Lumpur to Phuket.

However, my cheek bums did not feel sore a bit after I made a day trip to Fraser’s Hill.

Yet, I would have preferred a more comfy saddle.

The automatic windshield is definitely very much welcome especially by a light person like me.

On the few occasions which I had encountered crosswinds, the well-designed chassis kept the bike stable without losing balance.

The bike is also equipped with two panniers.

They are water-resistant and are easy to detach.

I could even store a full-face helmet in one of them.

There are few motorcycles out there that offer a good sporty ride but even fewer could deliver a good blend of sportiness and comforts of a modern tourer.

The 1400GTR gives you that.


Nine Perodua cars destroyed after transporter caught fire

                PETALING JAYA: Nine Perodua cars were destroyed after a transporter caught fire on the North South Expressway on Friday.

Selangor Fire and Rescue Department assistant operations director Mohd Sani Harul said firemen were sent to the location at Km400 after being alerted at about 10pm.

"Six Axia, two MyVi and an Alza were totally burnt in the incident. There was no casualty," he said. The blaze was brought under control an hour later.


Volvo's electric XC90 SUV to include lidar as standard next year

                DETROIT: Volvo Cars plans to make lidar sensors standard equipment in a new generation of its XC90 SUV next year as part of a strategy to deploy more advanced safety and automated driving technology that relies on precise images of the world around the vehicle.

The decision by Volvo Cars to fold lidar sensors into the base price of its vehicle is a bet that customers will pay for the additional capability. It has been called a "watershed moment" by some in the industry.

The Swedish brand, owned by China's Geely group, is taking a sharply different road from rival Tesla Inc, which has shunned lidar and radar and is focusing on just cameras and software for its automated driving systems.

Self-driving car sensor startup Luminar Technologies Inc will supply Volvo Cars with its Iris lidar and Sentinel software in combination with software from Volvo in the electric XC90 SUV that will be built in South Carolina and go on sale in 2022, the companies said.

The new technologies are designed to address traffic situations that often result in severe injuries and fatalities. Over time, the technology will become more capable and will increasingly intervene to prevent collisions, the companies said.

"By having this hardware as standard, we can continuously improve safety features over the air and introduce advanced autonomous drive systems," Volvo Cars chief executive Hakan Samuelsson said in a statement.

Lidar sensors, which use laser light pulses to render precise images of the environment around the car, are seen as essential by many automakers to enable obstacle detection and avoidance in advanced driving assistance systems and eventually in fully automated vehicles.

Until now, lidar has been too costly for automakers to implement as anything other than an option that costs extra. Luminar CEO Austin Russell said the pricing for its lidar is on the order of US$1,000 per unit.

Volvo Cars' chief technology officer, Henrik Green, said cost is not the focus for the Swedish auto brand. While the price of the technology will come down over time as volumes grow, the rollout will accelerate use of automated services that the company can charge for.

Green said subsequent vehicles will add the lidar package as standard, and that this continues Volvo Cars' history of being first to standardise many safety features, including three-point seat belts and side-impact airbags.

"This is kind of a watershed moment for the industry," Russell said in an interview. "You don't have an option package for airbags. You don't have an option package for seatbelts. Why should you have an option package for life-saving technology?"

Russell declined to say what the deal will mean financially for Luminar or discuss potential volumes, but the XC90 is Volvo Cars' top-selling US vehicle and third-most popular globally last year with almost 92,500 sales.

Luminar said in March it had struck a deal with a software unit of Volvo Cars, Zenseact, to offer a combination hardware-software system to power autonomous features for Volvo vehicles. Luminar said at the time the system also would be sold to other automakers.

The system will aim to provide automated driving, but only on highways, Luminar has said. It will use a computing chipset from Nvidia Corp and also use cameras and radar sensors in addition to Luminar's lidar unit, but can be made to work with the cameras and radars that many automakers have already included in their vehicles.

SAIC Motor Corp, China's largest automaker, has said it will offer self-driving vehicles in that market next year in partnership with Palo Alto, California-based Luminar.

Luminar, founded in 2012, is one of several US lidar manufacturers in the past year to go public via reverse mergers with blank-check companies.