McLaren Artura Hybrid makes its world debut (w/VIDEO)

With electrification as a necessity for future products, McLaren Automotive has started an entirely new chapter in its history, and a new era in supercar technology and performance. The Artura, the first completely new model produced since the 12C, is McLaren’s first series-production High-Performance Hybrid supercar.

As with all other modern McLarens, super lightweight engineering is a key element and was a priority for the engineers as they considered the replacement of the conventional combustion engine with a hybrid powertrain which would include a heavy battery pack.

Opportunities to innovate

It was a challenge that presented McLaren’s engineers and designers with new opportunities to innovate. A demanding programme of weight reduction, encompassing every area of the Artura from the chassis platform to the uniquely compact HPH powertrain system, to the weight of cabling used in the electrical systems (where a 10% reduction was achieved), resulted in the Artura having a lightest dry weight of 1,395 kgs.

The total weight of hybrid components is just 130 kgs (including an 88kg battery pack and 15.4 kg E-motor), resulting in a kerb weight of 1,498 kgs. That’s on par with comparable supercars that do not have hybrid powertrains, giving the Artura a super-lightweight advantage.

Twin turbo V6 + E-motor

At the heart of the Artura’s powertrain is McLaren’s all-new M630 2993 cc twin-turbocharged V6 petrol engine. With a power output of 585 ps – nearly 200 ps per litre – and 585 Nm of torque, the dry-sump aluminium engine is compact and lightweight; at just 160 kgs, it weighs 50 kgs less than a McLaren V8 and is significantly shorter, enhancing packaging efficiency.

Working in harmony with the new V6 is a compact E-motor, located within the transmission bell housing. Small and more power-dense, it is capable of generating 95 ps and 225 Nm, boasting a power density per kilo that is 33% greater than the system used in the McLaren P1.

The instantaneous nature of the motor’s torque delivery – known as ‘torque infill’ – is key to the car’s razor-sharp throttle response. Exhilarating ‘off-the-line’ performance is promised with a claimed  0 – 100km/h time of 3 seconds, and a top speed somewhere beyond 330 km/h but limited to that speed.

No reverse gear

The dual propulsion systems are integrated via an engine disconnect clutch, driving an all-new, twin-clutch transmission, developed specifically for the Artura. Despite having one more ratio than the existing McLaren transmission – to optimise power and torque delivery – the lightweight, short-ratio gear cluster is 40 mm shorter in length. It also requires no reverse gear as the E-motor takes care of reversing by literally rotating in the opposite direction.

The driver can choose from four Powertrain modes for different driving conditions and preferences. There are Sport and Track modes where electric power is deployed in an increasingly aggressive manner for low-end response and acceleration. Separate handling mode choices adjust damper firmness and the degree of Electronic Stability Control intervention to suit driver preference and weather and road conditions.

30-km range in EV mode

The E-motor is powered by a lithium-ion battery pack with a usable energy capacity of 7.4 kWh and a pure EV range said to be up to 30 kms. The battery is refrigerant-cooled using cooling rails, and the assembly – including a power distribution unit which transfers battery power from the rear of the vehicle to the ancillaries in the front – is mounted on a structural carbonfibre floor. This assembly is then bolted onto the rear base of the monocoque, optimising stiffness, weight distribution and crash protection.

Full PHEV capability

The Artura is designed with full Plug-in Hybrid (PHEV) capability; the battery pack can be recharged to an 80% level in just 2.5 hours with a standard EVSE cable. The batteries can also harvest power from the combustion engine during driving, tailored to the driving mode selected.

The Artura is the first model to have the new McLaren Carbon Lightweight Architecture (MCLA) at its core, setting a new standard for the carmaker’s advanced flexible chassis design. Optimised for high-performance hybrid applications, it includes a bespoke battery compartment and introduces a ground-breaking domain-based ethernet electrical architecture, along with an electrical heating, ventilation and air-conditioning (eHVAC) system.

The ethernet architecture reduces cabling by up to 25% as well as speeds up data transmission. This also facilitates access to advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) including Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane-Departure Warning, Auto High-Beam Assist and Road-Sign Recognition as well as Over-The-Air (OTA) software updates.

Pure supercar design

The engineering artistry beneath the Artura’s skin is complemented by its exterior design. The low-nose, cab-forward, high-tail stance is pure supercar, the drama underlined by the signature McLaren dihedral doors – which open closer to the body and house mirrors that fold in more tightly – and further enhanced by the short wheelbase and low stance.

The overall effect gives the Artura an almost ‘shrink-wrapped’ appearance, evolving a McLaren design approach seen in recent models to a new level. The lithe, technical sculpture has only minimal body shutlines and panel joints, assisted by features such as an entire rear clamshell engineered and superformed as one panel.

The shape, sculpted to optimise performance and manage airflow for aerodynamic performance and cooling, is driven by the McLaren design principle of ‘everything for a reason’ that is in evidence throughout the car. The centre of the front splitter is an example of this, being the intake for the eHVAC system and also housing the front-mounted radar that forms part of the optional ADAS package.

Driver-centric cockpit

Inside, the Artura is no less of a revolution, with the cockpit centred more than ever around the driver. The model introduces an all-new Clubsport seat, which uniquely combines the range of motion expected of a moveable backrest with the light weight and support of a bucket seat. Innovative yet uncomplicated, the whole seat pivots as one through an elliptical arc when adjusted, combining under-thigh support, seat height and backrest in one movement.

The seat locates in the ergonomically optimised cockpit, its carbonfibre shell combining with slim facia and doors to allow a 97.5th percentile (193 cm) driver to stretch out with generous knee and legroom, even with the backrest significantly reclined. Shoulder room is equally capacious, allowing a driver to get appropriately comfortable and seated correctly.

Driver and passenger comfort overall was an imperative throughout the development of the Artura, with NVH refinement high on the agenda. Innovations that benefit refinement include the stiffness of the MCLA, fluid-filled mounts for the powertrain and the new rear suspension design and settings. Pirelli’s patented Noise Cancelling System is also adopted to reduce vibration and noise.

More than a technological game-changer

At the outset, McLaren designed the Artura to be not only a technological game-changer, but also to stay true to the core McLaren attributes of being incredibly engaging to drive and displaying the highest levels of dynamic ability. The engineers focused on stability under braking; rear-end controllability; increased grip and optimised aerodynamic downforce – as well as enhanced driver engagement across the board. Key to hitting these goals is McLaren’s first-ever deployment of an electronically controlled differential (E-diff), to independently control torque moving across the rear axle. Lighter, more controllable and smaller than a mechanical locking diff (it fits within the transmission), the E-diff locks and unlocks individual rear wheels to improve traction out of corners.

The innovative rear suspension system, which pairs a top upper wishbone with two lower links and a tie rod in front of the wheel centre, maximises vehicle stability and precision, and reduces understeer out of a corner while accelerating. The wider tyres allow additional stability and better traction performance while the combination of a short wheelbase, E-diff and the physical downforce provided by the integrated rear spoiler and diffuser ensure both incredible agility at low speed and a high level of stability at high speed.

Pirelli Cyber Tyre

Dynamic precision is additionally enhanced by Pirelli Cyber Tyre technology. Comprising hardware and software integrated with the Artura’s electronic systems and featuring an electronic ‘chip’ inside each tyre, the Cyber Tyre generates real-time data and relays it to the car’s stability control systems to optimise tyre performance.

One feature that is unashamedly not new on the Artura is McLaren’s trademark hydraulically-assisted steering. Proven on generations of McLaren supercars, it remains the ultimate system for providing feedback. In the Artura, the system has been fully redesigned to reduce weight and is combined with an updated and bespoke version of McLaren’s Proactive Damping Control system that further supports exceptional ride and handling characteristics.

Braking performance is also exceptional, as would be expected of a supercar. This is provided by carbon ceramic brakes and lightweight aluminium calipers from the same family as the systems that feature in McLaren’s latest LT models.

“Every drop of McLaren’s experience and expertise has been poured into the Artura. Our all-new, High-Performance Hybrid delivers all of the performance, driver engagement and dynamic excellence for which McLaren is renowned, with the additional benefit of EV driving capability. The introduction of the Artura is a landmark moment – for McLaren, for our customers who will appreciate and enjoy this car on every emotional and rational level, and for the supercar world,” said Mike Flewitt, CEO of McLaren Automotive.

First deliveries to customers will start during the third quarter of 2021 with prices in the UK starting from £185,500 (about RM1.04 million). There will be 3 further core specifications for customers to choose from.


BMW XM More Powerful Than Advertised

The
BMW XM
 is what we would call a somewhat divisive product because it is both the heaviest and most powerful BMW production model in history.

Despite its size and weight, one must respect the level of performance that this enormous SUV offers. The numbers published by the automaker may really be underestimated, as evidenced by a recent test run on the dynamometer. This is something BMW has a reputation for in recent years.

There are various modes that apply variable levels of electric motor engagement, making it difficult to quantify the SUV’s sophisticated hybrid powertrain. These factors, together with the possibility that the output was impacted by the fact that this specific car was not completely charged prior to the test drive, make it possible that the statistics you are going to see are not entirely accurate.

While the XM is in dyno mode, the measuring team acknowledges that it might be challenging to pinpoint exactly how the hybrid system is operating. Evidently, during the dyno test, the electric power gauge builds up but rises earlier than anticipated. Whether BMW’s dyno-mode uses the electric motor differently than it does in ordinary operation is still unknown at this time, which might indicate that additional power is still locked up and waiting to be released.

Whatever the output, the XM is really rapid. The factory claims that it can sprint from 0 to 96 km/h in just 4.1 seconds. The M Driver’s Package unlocks the vehicle’s full capability and a peak speed of 270 km/h for the second solo M model in history, which has an electronic top speed limit of 250 km/h.

The XM weighs so much that Performance Eurowerks’ corner weight scales could not support the massive tonnage of the German utility vehicle. A tractor-trailer weigh station might be able to. Without making fun, the XM’s sizable battery pack is the reason for its weight. According to the charging system’s maximum capacity of 7.4 kW, a full charge from 0% to 100% takes 4 hours and 15 minutes. For the current model year, it is unknown how many units will be made, but we do know that there are only 500
Label Reds
 available in the entire world.


F1/Round 18: 2022 Japanese Grand Prix Preview And Starting Grid

[UPDATED]
Max Verstappen is on pole position for the Japanese Grand Prix tomorrow, after an incident with Lando Norris was investigated and the Stewards decided to give him only a reprimand rather than any penalty which would affect his qualifying position.

If the Formula 1 teams were looking forward to a more comfortable environment after hot and humid F1 round in Singapore, they have been drenched again at the Suzuka Circuit in Japan where Round 18 of the Formula 1 World Championship is being held this weekend. But at least it’s cooler (low 20s compared to Singapore’s 30s) and certainly less humid (57% in Japan, 88% in Singapore).

Like Singapore, the Japanese Grand Prix could not be run during the past two years due to the COVID-19 pandemic. So instead of being the 38
th
 Japanese F1 GP, it is the 36
th
 time since 1976. Other than 2007 and 2008 when the Japanese event was held at the Fuji Raceway, the Suzuka International Racing Course (owned by Honda) has been the venue since 1987.

Suzuka, which opened in 1962, was originally built as a test track for Honda’s use and was upgraded to meet the FIA’s requirements as a F1 circuit in 1987. But even in its original form it already had high standards as Japan’s first full-scale international racing track. Soichiro Honda wanted the facility to not just be a racetrack for cars and motorcycles but also included a recreation facility for leisure and entertainment. It would become a mobility park with ‘motorized’ amusement rides, as well as a racing school to develop racers and enhance further advancement of the sport.

As there was a lack of experience in building a racing circuit, Honda looked at famous circuits in other countries as well as invited the designer of the Zandvoort Circuit in Holland, John Hugenholtz, to assist. The design that was chosen had an iconic feature of a ‘figure eight’ layout. To realize this meant having an overpass to cross over along a 1.2-km long straight. Suzuka is one of only two FIA Grade 1 licensed tracks to have such a layout, the other being the Fiorano Circuit in Italy. It’s also the only F1 track that runs both clockwise and anticlockwise.

One lap of the track is 5.8 kms and there are 18 turns (10 being right-handers and eight being left-handers) but tyre wear is generally even as there is a good balance of right and left turns. The driver will be working the steering wheel continuously during almost all of the first sector of the lap. From Turn 1 until the exit of Turn 7, there is constant cornering for around 2 kms of each lap, with only about 1.2 kms of the lap spent driving in a straight line.

“Ask the drivers which are their favourite circuits and Suzuka will always be high on the list: it contains demanding corners like nowhere else, such as 130R and Spoon, as well as a truly special atmosphere and history with incredible fans,” notes Mario Isola, Motorsport Director of Pirelli. The teams love coming to Japan, especially with the famed Japanese hospitality, and the fans are also excited this year with having a Japanese driver – Yuki Tsunoda – on the starting grid after a long time. Incidentally, the Scuderia Alphatauri driver is a graduate of the Suzuka Circuit Racing School.

Of the track, Isola said that the sustained energy loads through the tyres are some of the highest registered all year, so Pirelli has brought the three hardest compounds in its range because of the high levels of tyre duty.

“The challenge at Suzuka is made even greater with the teams having to approach the circuit, weather conditions, and set-up in a completely new way with the latest generation of tyres and also heavier cars,” he said.

Isola revealed that Pirelli tested some 2023 prototype tyres during an extended free practice session yesterday. Data obtained will be considered as the engineers finalize the specification for next year with the end of this season approaching.

Suzuka is a very technical track, where a good flow is required because most corners are interconnected. One mistake will impact the next couple of turns. And whereas in Singapore, the brakes are punished, it is the complete opposite at Suzuka. There are only two real braking points on the track, making it one of the lowest of the season for brake duty and wear.

The braking zone for Turn 11 is challenging because the drivers are midway through the fast Turn 10 when they hit the brakes. They are cornering at around 3.5
g
 when they start applying the brakes, while turning right and then left for the hairpin. This is why lock-ups are so common at this section of track.

“This track is just beautiful to drive and it’s great to see the fans here again – and it will be even more fun in the dry,” said Mercedes-AMG’s Lewis Hamilton. “When you do your first lap of the weekend, it’s always special to think of all the legends that have been here; then you come up to the last chicane or Turn 1, thinking of Senna and Prost, and you realize what a privilege it is to drive at a place that has had so much history.”

The Japanese have seen Michael Schumacher on the podium at Suzuka the most times as he won 6 times between 1995 and 2004. Hamilton will match that record if he wins this weekend. As for teams, McLaren tops the list with 9 victories, followed by Ferrari.

Having miss the opportunity in Singapore, Max Verstappen can claim the Drivers’ title in Japan. Only Sergio Perez and Charles Leclerc are now able to delay that confirmation. The Red Bull driver needs to outscore Leclerc by just 8 points, and Perez by 6 points and he will get his second title tomorrow. Pole position for the race makes him champion-elect, regardless of what his rivals do.

In the Constructors’ Championship, Ferrari outscored Red Bull Racing in the last round, the first time since the Austrian Grand Prix, keeping their faint title hopes alive. Starting the Japanese GP, they have 439 points, 66 points ahead of Mercedes-AMG, while Red Bull Racing has a strong lead with 576 points.


Supercars worth RM12.2 million seized in Shah Alam

The Royal Malaysian Customs Department made one hell of a bust last Friday when they seized several supercars and other high-end vehicles worth RM12.2 million in Shah Alam, Selangor. 21 cars in total were seized from two car importing companies where they were found guilty of forging declaration documents in bringing them over into Malaysia.

According to a report posted by
The Star Online
, Datuk Azimah Hamid, Deputy Customs Department director-general, stated “In the first raid, we raided a warehouse in Shah Alam and seized eight vehicles, including two Mercedes-Benz CLS350, a BMW 525i, four Toyota Estimas and a Toyota Alphard. At the same time, we conducted a second raid at another warehouse in Shah Alam and seized six Lamborghini Huracans and seven Toyota Vellfires.”

Image Credit: The Star Online

The two car importing companies made a few wrong moves by filing false declarations regarding the vehicles’ year of manufacture. The newer cars like the beautiful Lamborghini Huracan were only around a couple of years old but in the documents, it was stated that they were produced around 2012 for the car companies to obtain lower tax rates.

Several other vehicles were also in breach of the import regulations as they were found to be over the five-year limit. “Under the import licence issued by the International Trade and Industry Ministry, only vehicles between one and five years old can be imported. Seven of the vehicles brought in by this company were less than a year old, while the others were over the five-year limit.”

Image Credit: The Star Online

If found guilty, the car importing companies can face a fine of 10 times the value of the vehicles of RM50,000 for their first offense but if they are repeated offenders, that can quickly shoot up to 20 times the amount or RM500,000 and/or five years in jail. Yikes.

Credit:
The Star Online


Catch the Toyota GR Supra this Saturday at Mutiara Motors, Johor!

The folks from
Mutiara Motors
 aka Toyota Plentong will be launching the all-new Toyota GR Supra for the Southern region of Johor this Saturday (28 September 2019). To all Supra fans and enthusiasts currently residing in the state, you can catch it live from 10am to 4pm. Trust us, you will not want to miss it!

 View this post on Instagram

The Legend Returns! ? The Management of Mutiara Motorsports Cordially Invites you to our GR Supra Southern Region Launch Date : 28 September 2019 (Saturday) Time : 10am – 4pm Venue : Mutiara Motorsports (Toyota Plentong) No 70, Jalan Mutiara 8, Kawasan Perindustrian Plentong, 81750, Plentong, Johor. See you there! #GRSupra #A90 #ToyotaPlentong

A post shared by
 Mutiara Motors Group
 (@mutiaramotors) on
Sep 24, 2019 at 6:51pm PDT

Why Mutiara Motors aka Toyota Plentong? Well, they are the first dealer here in Malaysia to be recognized as the first GR Garage in the country. Only dealers certified as GR Garages are eligible to sell and service the highly anticipated and jaw-dropping Toyota GR Supra for the Malaysian market.

We’ve personally tested what the A90 Toyota Supra had to offer for just a few moments before its official launch last week and it was simply astounding on what the car was capable of. From razor-sharp handling to blistering accelerations, the true essence of the legendary Supra still remains in its modern rendition.

Powered by a 3.0-litre, inline-six turbocharged engine, the Toyota GR Supra produces 340hp and 500Nm of torque. These figures are able to propel the beautiful beast from 0 to 100km/h in just 4.3 seconds and straight to a limited top speed of 250km/h. Getting to 250km/h with the A90 Supra is much, much easier than we’d anticipated.

Priced from RM568,000 to RM580,000 (on-the-road price without insurance), the price varies based on the premium colour options available here in Malaysia. Customers can choose from Prominence Red, White Metallic, Silver Metallic, Ice Grey Metallic, Black Metallic, Deep Blue Metallic, Lightning Yellow, and the range topping Matte Storme Grey Metallic.

2020 Toyota GR Supra Malaysian Launch & First Drive!

The LEGEND is back! Check out the official launch of the 2020 Toyota GR Supra & also our first taste of this magnificent sports machine. In short, WE.LOVE.SUPRA.

Posted by
Piston.my
 on Jumaat, 20 September 2019

For more information, head over to
https://toyota.com.my/vehicles/gr-lineup/supra

or check out our official launch article in the link, below!

2020 Toyota GR Supra has landed in Malaysia! From RM568,000


Pininfarina Battista hypercar starts real-world testing with high-speed run at Nardo (w/VIDEO)

After all the computer simulations, wind tunnel studies and laboratory testing, the Pininfarina Battista all-electric hypercar is now starting its real-world testing. The first exercise has been a high-speed test run at the 12.6-km long track of the Nardo Technical Centre in Italy. Laps were also done on the laps of the twisting 6.2-km handling track.

This is  a landmark moment and the successful test marks the beginning of the next chapter in the development programme of the most powerful Italian sports car ever produced. After this, there will be 9 test and validation versions driven on public roads and in private test facilities to fine-tune, validate and homologate its bespoke chassis settings, advanced torque vectoring system and unique sound experience.

The Nardo Technical Centre track in Italy where very high speed testing can be conducted.

“We have undertaken extensive development using advanced simulation technology, and we can now fine-tune the calibration of Battista’s bespoke chassis and pioneering four-motor torque vectoring system on road and track,” said Automobili Pininfarina’s Chief Product and Engineering Officer, Paolo Dellacha.

The Battista’s 120-kWh battery pack provides electrical power to 4 electric motors – one at each wheel – for a combined power output of 1,900 ps and maximum torque of 2,300 Nm. Its advanced powertrain is able to intelligently distribute power between all four wheels for optimised traction in all conditions. Five unique driving modes (Calma, Pura, Energica, Furiosa and Carattere) allow customisation of characteristics to driver preference or conditions.

“The phenomenal performance potential of the Battista is clear. Our clients will never have experienced acceleration like this before, yet giving them the opportunity to tailor their experience using a range of drive modes means this hypercar offers much more than just speed thrills,” aid the company’s Test Driver and Vehicle Dynamics Manager, Georgios Syropoulos.

The prototype Battista tested at Nardo Technical Centre was not a stripped-down development mule. Within its carbonfibre bodyshell, it had a fully finished interior complete with luxuriously executed detailing so the engineers could assess every element of the car.

Tailored driving experience

During the testing, the engineers carried out tuning of the advanced racing-inspired Brembo CCMR carbon-ceramic brake technology. Work will focus on blending its operation with the high-speed aerobrake and energy recuperation system for optimum performance.

The 4-motor torque vectoring will be uniquely tuned to suit the characteristics of the Battista in all conditions. Energy-neutral torque vectoring will be optimised to recuperate and shift electrical energy seamlessly for enhanced range and efficiency.

After around 1,000 of hours of virtual dynamic testing; double-wishbone suspension components, forged aluminium wheels, torsion bars and elastokinematics will be evaluated and fine-tuned, taking maximum advantage of the Battista’s ultra-stiff carbonfibre monocoque.

Customers will have a choice of 20-inch forged aluminium front and rear ‘Prezioso’ wheels and 20-inch front and 21-inch rear forged aluminium ‘Impulso’ wheels, with a saving of 8.9 kgs in unsprung mass across all wheels. High-performance Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2R or Pirelli P Zero will be available on request.

Quicker acceleration than F1 cars

Customers who receive the first hypercars and put them to the test should be able to accelerate from 0 – 100 km/h in under 2 seconds. That promised performance is quicker than a current Formula 1 car. For those who can find a place to get up to 300 km/h, the time claimed from 0 to 300 km/h is less than 12 seconds, with a top speed of 350 km/h.

The fully electric hyper GT is the realisation of the company founder’s dream to see a car produced wearing the Pininfarina name. No more than 150 examples will be available, each priced from US$2.5 million (about RM10.2 million) at the time the prototype Battista was unveiled in April 2019.

Click here
 to read more about The World’s First Globally-Connected Hypercar


900 horsepower Mustang Lithium shows that musclecars can still exist in an electrified future

It used to be when the talk was of electric vehicles, the perception was that such vehicles would be slow and boring to drive. Apart from some exotic prototypes, most were small and with battery technology being what it was, they couldn’t go very fast or very far. But that’s been changing quickly as carmakers realize that their survival requires ‘electrification’ of their vehicles to meet tighter emission and fuel consumption regulations.

In order to persuade motorists to switch over, they need to develop electric vehicles (EVs) which can offer comparable performance and space as today’s cars with internal combustion engines. Hybrids have been a good transition but ultimately, the aim is to go fully electric when costs can be lowered enough.

Meanwhile, for those who worry that high performance as we know it today will be gone, Ford and Webasto have revealed the Mustang Lithium, an ultra-high-performance battery electric Mustang fastback prototype. With more than 1,356 Nm of torque and more than 900 bhp instantaneously available, this Mustang ups musclecar performance to a new level.

The Mustang Lithium is not only a one-off prototype to showcase electrification on the world’s best-selling sportscar but also a testbed for battery and thermal management technologies Webasto and Ford are creating for the growing e-mobility automotive segment.

“Ford has made no secret of the fact that we are electrifying our most popular nameplates,” said Hau Thai-Tang, Ford’s Chief Product Development and Purchasing Officer. “This one-off Mustang prototype is a great opportunity for us, together with Webasto, to showcase to our customers what a new electrified powertrain can do for performance in a car they already know and love.”

The low and sleek Mustang Lithium is not merely a production Mustang with the powertrain substituted by electric motors. It has custom carbonfibre body components, Brembo 6-piston front brakes from the Shelby GT350R, Sankuer Composite Technologies side splitters and rear diffuser, plus a Webasto bonnet with see-through polycarbonate windows. It is also fitted with Ford Performance’s Track Handling Pack and strut tower brace.

A Phi-Power dual-core electric motor and dual power inverters – all powered by an 800-volt Webasto battery system with EVDrive Technology – can discharge a mega-watt of electrical energy. At 800 volts, that’s twice the voltage of most electric cars on the road today. This allows the system to be lighter, more powerful and generate less heat, and more electric force than most battery-electric systems on the road today.

The 5-litre V8 that is under the bonnet of Mustangs which the public can buy. Certainly looks more interesting that the ‘box’ which houses the 900+ bhp electric powerplant (top)!

In a unique twist, the Mustang Lithium features a manual transmission and uses a dragstrip-proven Calimer-version of the Getrag MT82 6-speed transmission with billet internals to handle the huge amount of torque delivered along the driveline. To enable the driver to use all that torque optimally, there is a unique set of drive modes that apply a controlled amount of torque for different driving scenarios: Valet, Sport, Track and Beast.

Ford Performance half-shafts and a Super 8.8 Torsen differential help supply power to the road via lightweight Forgeline wheels wearing Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tyres.

“Very similar to Ford’s push for vehicle electrification, this is an innovative way to further the technologies we’re developing to enable vehicle electrification while creating a vision of how cool the future of electric performance will be,” said Mark Denny, Webasto Customized Solutions North America President and CEO.

Webasto, which has a 100-year history, is among the top 100 suppliers to the automotive worldwide. While its core business areas are sunroofs and panorama roofs, convertible roofs and parking heaters, they have also diversified into electric heating systems, charging solutions and battery systems we are also addressing the growth market of electromobility.

The latest Mustang is available in Malaysia from Sime Darby Auto ConneXion with full warranty and aftersales support. This is the first generation of the model which has a factory-built righthand drive variant.

Ford Mustang – Best-selling sports car in the world


All-New Ford Ranger Raptor Launched in Malaysia – Priced at RM259,888!

Just two months after introducing the all-new Next Generation Ford Ranger, and just two weeks after introducing the all-new Ford Everest, Sime Darby Auto Connexion (SDAC) has officially taken the wraps off the all-new Next Generation Ford Ranger Raptor.

The all-new Ranger Raptor is one of the most highly anticipated new trucks to be launched in recent times. Hailed as the ultimate performance variant of the all-new Ford Ranger, the new Raptor is said to be built to dominate the wilderness, master the mountains and rule everywhere in between.

What’s new with the engine?

At the heart of the new Raptor lays a new twin-turbo 3.0-litre Ecoboost V6 petrol powered engine. Mated to Ford’s 10-speed automatic gearbox, the new powertrain produces a monumental 397PS at 5,650rpm and 583Nm of torque at just 3,500rpm.

The engine is not only a powerhouse in every sense of the word, but is also a technological wonder. It is built using a compacted graphite-iron cylinder block and is said to be 75% stronger and up to 75% stiffer than the iron used in traditional engine castings.

The engine also features some motorsport derived technologies such as a new “race-bred” anti-lag system which keeps the twin-turbos spooling for up to three seconds after the drivers lets go of the throttle. This is to ensure there is absolutely no turbo lag and power is delivered instantaneously when the driver demands for it.

The suspension and shock absorbers are the most advanced ever!

As for the chassis and suspension, Ford’s engineers didn’t hold back. The shock absorbers and suspension have been completely redesigned for strength and weight enhancement. The upper and lower control arms have been strengthened and lightened. The suspension offers long travel at the front and back and a Watt’s link rear end offer better control to the driver across extreme terrains and at high speed.

Also managing suspension duties are two-pairs of FOX shocks. The new shocks are said to be the most sophisticated ever on a Ranger Raptor, and feature a 2.5-inch Live Valve Internal Bypass technology to enhance ride comfort and handling. Not only that but the shocks are also filled with Teflon-infused oil that reduces friction by as astounding 50% compared to the FOX shocks on the previous Raptor. The shocks also feature predictive technology that utilises cutting-edge position-sensitive damping capability that can predict suspension movement based on driving style, and the terrain.

And if you are wondering, Ford didn’t forget about bottoming-out in case of high-speed jumps. To protect against that, the shocks come with FOX Bottom-Out Control that provides maximum damping force in the last 25% of shock travel. Similarly, the shocks can also automatically stiffen the rear dampers to prevent the Raptor from squatting under hard acceleration.

The chassis too is said to be upgraded with a series of new mounts and reinforcements for body elements such as the C-pillar, the cargo bed and also offer unique frames for the jounce bumper, shock tower and rear shock bracket. All of this has been designed to help the all-new Raptor cope with punishing off-road conditions, and to keep up with the masses of power.

Filled with electronic goodies …

The all-new Raptor comes with a 4×4 electronic shift-on-the-fly (ESOF) system that has been upgraded. This is not new technology, but the system in the Raptor offers an all-new electronically controlled on-demand two-speed transfer case with four settings – 2WD, 4WD Auto, 4WD High and 4WD Low. The system also further adds a front locking differential to complement the rear locking differential for ultimate control on demanding terrains.

Complementing that is a new updated Terrain Management System that offers seven selectable drive modes. In addition to the ‘Baja’ (pronounced as Baha), that is configured for high-speed off-roading. The other modes available are Normal, Sport, Slippery for on-road driving and Rock Crawl, Sand and Mud/Ruts.

Each mode adjusts multiple elements in the Raptor from engine and gear shifts, ABS sensitivity and calibration, traction and stability controls, exhaust valve actuation, steering and throttle response, and even changes the design of the instrument cluster depending on the mode selected.

Sounds great!

The new Raptor stays true to the motorsport theme with an all-new class-exclusive active exhaust system that amplifies engine performance but also changes the engine sound according to the selected mode. Available in four modes – Quiet, Normal, Sport and Baha – Ford says that the all-new Raptor can either purr or roar at the press of a button.

What about the design and interior features?

A Raptor can never be a Raptor without some wild aesthetics, and the all-new Raptor stays true to that with massive flared arches that enhance the width of the car. And in case the competition does not know what smoked them, bold F-O-R-D lettering and a bumper that is separated from the grille will remind them.

The 17-inch alloy wheels come wrapped in BFGoodrich all-terrain KO2 tyres really accentuate the muscular appearance of the Raptor while functional vents, aero features, a rear bumper that angles upwards showing its its 265mm ground clearance, LED lights all around and Ford Performance scuff plates and new cast aluminium side steps enhance the toughness of the Raptor.

The design carries on with the with C-Clamp Matrix LED headlights with dynamic bending lights first seen in the Ranger Wildtrak.

The interior design stays true to the off-road performance and high-energy nature of the exterior. The cabin features new jet fighter sports leather seats that are not only supportive during high speed cornering, but are also electronically adjustable in 10 different ways. The front passenger too gets powered seats.

The interior offers Code Orange accents, leather sports steering wheel with cast magnesium paddle shifters, leather gear know with an e-shifter and amber ambient lighting.

As for entertainment besides the masses of power already available for driving entertainment, the all-new Raptor also comes with a fully-digital cabin with a new high-resolution 12.4-inch TFT cluster display and a 12-inch centre touchscreen loaded with Ford’s SYNC 4 entertainment system featuring wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity and a Bang & Olufsen sound system with eight-speakers. There are also four USB charging ports, a wireless Qi charger and a 360-degree camera.

As for safety features, the all-new Raptor is fitted with a whole suite of active and advanced driver assistance systems including adaptive cruise control with stop & go function and lane centring, emergency stop signal, blind sport infotainment system (BLIS) and high beam assist, reverse brake assist, evasive steer assist and rear cross-traffic alert. Topping off the safety tech are seven airbags around the driver, front passenger, sides, curtains and driver’s knee.

As for the price, SDAC shocked the local market by announcing the new Ford Ranger Raptor will cost just RM259,888, which is an absolute bargain considering the features you are getting.


Winners of Toyota Dream Car Art contest announced

Toyota’s annual Dream Car Art contest which saw more than 1,300 artworks submitted by talented children from around the country, has drawn to a close. Nine lucky children were chosen as winners at the national level (Malaysia) this year and they will go on to compete at the world level in August 2017. These winners were chosen from three age categories – under 8 years old, 8 to 11 years old and 12 to 15 years old.

The nine winners at Malaysia national level are, Lim Wei Wen, Choo Han Yean, Chew Xin Ni in the under 8 years old category, Lee Pei Lin, Tan Ee Ven, Lim Xiao Yun in the 8 to 11 years old category and Charmaine Lim, Chee Ying Xuan, Lim Yuan Qian in the 12 to 15 years old segment.

UMW Toyota (local distributor of Toyota vehicles in Malaysia) awarded first place winners at the national level the Apple iPad Mini 4. Second prize winners were given mountain bikes will those in third place received two tickets each to the Legoland theme park in Johor.

The artworks of all nine children will be sent to Toyota Motor Corporation in Japan and will be reviewed by a panel of experts along with submission from around the globe for the World Contest phase. Winners at this level win a trip to Tokyo, Japan to attend the awards ceremony in August of this year.

Since 2004, the Japanese automaker has conducted this art contest as part of the company’s social contribution initiatives. According to the automaker, the main objective of the contest is to foster interest in developing ideas on designs of future vehicles.

“The Toyota Dream Car Art contest aims to develop talents amongst children and teenagers to express their ideas on futuristic mobility through art form, by drawing their dream car. I also would like to congratulate the nine lucky winners for their efforts and creativity that made it through to the World Contest”, says the Deputy Chairman of UMW Toyota Motor, Mr. Akio Takeyama.

Toyota conducts contests like this every year as part of its commitment to promote art and develop young minds that may have an interest in vehicle designs. These young kinds may eventually go on to become vehicle designers some day.


PLUS customers now have PUTRI to help them with their enquiries

Human interaction has continuously changed over time but now the change has accelerated as a result of the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic sweeping the world. We now have to be conscious of social distancing – standing at least a metre apart – and be aware that even shaking hands can be risky as the virus can be transmitted.

Fortunately, we have technology to help us with the changes we must make socially and also in the business world. The ability to connect is still present and in the business world, chatbots have been an integral component of customer engagement for airlines, healthcare, telecommunications, retail, financial services, F&B as well as the news media.

PLUS Malaysia Berhad’s ‘PUTRI’ or
P
L
U
S
T
exting
R
ealtime
I
nterface is one such example, and it can be considered the highway industry’s first ever chatbot. PUTRI is designed to interact with PLUS highway customers and over time, the interactive conversations through its Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning model will allow PUTRI to handle over 70% of the 1,500 calls which PLUS Traffic Monitoring Centre (TMC) receives averagely daily. The majority of the calls are request for standard highway information, which a chatbot can answer right away.

Two of the ways that the public can interact with PUTRI, instead of waiting for someone from the Call Centre.

With PUTRI’s support, PLUS TMC service levels can be enhanced by allowing the personnel to focus more on emergency calls, and conduct speedier and swifter coordination to assist customers in distress during traffic incidents. The PUTRI Chatbot is easily accessible and more convenient as it provides better speed in providing responses and could reduce the waiting period for callers.

“The COVID-19 pandemic has undoubtedly accelerated our lives to become more digitally dependent and tech-savvy. The increase of bandwidth usage in the country and the world over is a sure sign that we are embracing the use of more gadgets and the communication experience is today more robust. Hence, our PUTRI will provide real time interface to the thousands of enquiries on straightforward highway information,” said PLUS Chief Technology & Innovation Officer, Shamsul Izhan Abdul Majid.

“PUTRI will be able to attend to multiple and simultaneous queries pertaining to PLUS highway service, toll fares, real-time traffic information, inquiries on PLUSMiles, product, facilities, promotions as well as events,” he added.

PLUS highway users can interact with the Beta version of PUTRI throughout the current public pilot phase (launched April 27 2020 on the PLUS website) and the PLUSMiles portal, as well as since  May 11 for the PLUS Mobile App. It will soon be available on social media platforms and WhatsApp applications with bilingual capability.

Between and the full completion date during the third quarter of 2020, PLUS invites users to interact with PUTRI and provide feedback which can assist the development team to identify issues and work on solutions to enhance its technical capabilities.

PLUSRonda celebrates 30 years of service to highway travellers


Volvo takes a different approach to helping reduce distractions to drivers

As a leader in automotive safety, Volvo has obviously stayed abreast of all developments which affect drivers and driving. Understanding that maintaining concentration on driving and on the road ahead are vital for safety, the focus has always been to minimise distractions.

In the early 2000s, for example, the company introduced IDIS (Intelligent Driver Information System), an innovative feature in the S40. IDIS helped the driver prioritise the information and services in the car depending on the current driving situation. If necessary, the system would delay incoming phone calls and other information during times when the driver was in a situation of higher ‘workload’.

2nd generation of the S40 had IDIS (Intelligent Driver Information System) to reduce distractions during times when the driver was in a situation of higher ‘workload’.

More distractions today

In more recent times, with the increased use of smartphones and touchscreens inside cars, there has been a growing debate around the dangers of distraction behind the wheel. There are laws that restrict use of mobilephones during driving, and to address this, manufacturers installed handsfree systems to manage calls.

However, the safety experts at Volvo Cars see the issue n a different light. They say that distraction is ‘a fact of life’, and that technology should be used to support people in their daily commute. The company’s own safety research and behavioural science work suggests that when used correctly, modern technology inside the car can actively reduce distraction, boost road safety and help people to be better and more focused drivers.

“It is easy to think that phones and screens are the only scourge of the modern driver, but life as a whole is distracting,” said Malin Ekholm, Head of the Volvo Cars Safety Centre. “We know people do not get distracted on purpose, but it happens. You could be late for an appointment and somewhat stressed, or you get behind the wheel after a bad day at work – all this affects you as a driver.”

Perhaps older cars were ‘safer’ because the driver had less devices on-board to distract him?

How drivers and society really operate

Some would say that from a distraction point of view, a car from the 1940s is safer than today’s cars – after all, it does not contain a screen, phone connectivity or even a radio. But that is not how today’s drivers and society operate.

“The reality is that people want to engage with friends, family, work and entertainment, and everyone responds differently to distraction,” said Ekholm. “So we want to meet our customers where they are, not where we want them to be. That is why our focus is on using technology in the right way, so we can use it to help you stay safe behind the wheel.”

Volvo Cars actively uses technology to combat the dangers of distraction, so as to offer some of the safest cars on the road. For example, its Active Safety systems with autobrake and steer assist are designed to be on guard to help drivers if they lose concentration or are distracted for a split-second.

All-electric XC40 Recharge has a new Android-powered infotainment system that can help reduce distractions.

Andorid-powered infotainment system

In the new
XC40 Recharge Pure Electric
, an advanced voice control on Volvo Cars’ new Android-powered infotainment system allows drivers to control the temperature, set a destination, play their favourite music and podcasts or call their mum on her birthday – all while keeping their hands on the wheel and eyes on the road ahead.

“Being able to control key features on your Volvo by voice allows you to keep your hands on the wheel and your eyes on the road,” said Ekholm. “Active Safety systems such as City Safety, Run-off Road Mitigation and Oncoming Lane Mitigation with Steer Assist can act as an extra pair of eyes watching over you.”

New XC40 Recharge

Volvo Cars believes that distraction should also be addressed via in-car cameras and other sensors that monitor the driver. With such technologies, if a clearly distracted (or drunk) driver does not respond to warning signals and risks a serious, potentially lethal accident, the car could intervene.

That intervention could involve limiting the car’s speed, alerting the Volvo on Call assistance service and, as a last resort, actively slowing down and safely parking the car. Volvo Cars plans to start introducing these cameras on the next generation of Volvo’s scalable SPA2 vehicle platform.

Volvo has already installed Active Safety Systems that can spot pedestrians and animals on the road and stop the car if the driver does not take the right action.

Humans have not changed much during a couple of thousand years. It’s a huge challenge to educate a human being into the perfect driver so Volvo designs its vehcles instead to help prevent the driver from having an accident – and to protect everyone in the car as well as possible if a crash is unavoidable.

Soon, you will be able to go only up to 180 km/h in any Volvo


McLaren create thunder down under

McLaren hosted a special track day event for 21 of its luckiest customers in Australia. The event was held at the iconic Philip Island Circuit where participants got to experience the thrill of driving their cars flat-out in a controlled environment.

It also shines a spotlight on the automaker’s commitment to ensuring that customers are given opportunities to enjoy the ownership experience. Unlike others, McLaren doesn’t believe that their relationship with customers end as soon as the money exchanges hands. instead, they believe that it is forged by continued engagement between both parties.

The event mirrored other track day programmes held by the Woking based manufacturer in other areas of the world. participants were offered the chance to get behind the wheel of 29 other McLaren models to truly experience the entire range of its supercars.

George Biggs, Managing Director of Asia Pacific at McLaren Automotive, said,  “This event marks the first ever McLaren owner’s day to take place in Australia. Every McLaren is built to be driven and enjoyed, hosting it here on the Philip Island Circuit provides the best opportunity for our owners to do so.”

“It is great to see a growing community of McLaren owners in Australia that enjoy sharing their passion for driving. Besides the Owner’s Day event, McLaren owners in Australia may look forward to more driving programmes in the near future as we definitely have an exciting line up of activities in 2018,” he later added.

McLaren enlisted the expertise of Kenny Brack, Indy Racing League Drivers Championship winner and Indy 500 champion, to train and offer tips to owners that might help boost their performance on track. Even owners who are adept at handling a Mclaren at its limits can learn a thing or two from an instructor and professional racer like Brack.

Brack was appointed as Test and Development Driver for McLaren Automotive in 2015. His insight and experience has played a part in strengthening McLaren’s three tier product range – Sports Series, Super Series, and Ultimate Series. He will also be responsible for ensuring that every new car that is produced, is worthy of being called a McLaren


Bentley Residences In Miami To Have Car-lifts To Bring Your Car Up To Your Apartment

One thing about living in a high-rise apartment is that your car has to be parked some distance away. If you are very rich and live in a place like the Hamilton Scotts condo near Newton Circus in Singapore, then your car can be parked adjacent to your apartment unit as there is a ‘Sky Garage’ where the car is brought up by a lift.

Bentley Residences in Miami, USA, also has a similar idea and offers its residents a 4-car garage at whatever level their apartment is on. The ‘Dezervator’ lift, named after the development partner Dezer Development, will transport the car and passengers from road level to apartment.

There will be four ‘Dezervators’ which have a unique elevator design, conceived by Bentley’s partners. Each lift has a hydraulic system which pinches a car by its tyres to pull it on top of a robotic shuttle system which, in turn, transports a car up or down to the desired level.

The passengers need not get out and use a separate lift and can remain inside as it goes up to the apartment. On the way up, they will have a unique experience with the lower floors of the elevator shaft enclosed by glass offering a full panoramic view of the various areas of the building.

Each resident, right up to the 61
st
 floor, will have a personal 3 or 4-car garage within their apartment offering private, convenient and secure storage for their car collections. RFID tags on each car will identify the vehicle and once verified, a sophisticated lighting system will guide the driver to the correct Dezervator to reach their own floor. The garages will also have a wallbox for charging electric vehicles.

Bentley Motors and Dezer Development announced their partnership in 2021, detailing plans for the first ever Bentley-branded residences, which will be 61 storeys high and offer bay and ocean views from each luxury apartment. There will be 216 apartments in total with prices ranging from US$6.35 million to US$12.95 million.

Bentley Residences in Miami, USA, will be completed by 2026.

Visitors to the Bentley Residences will be able to make use of the additional parking facilities beneath the building. The garage will also include fast-charging stations for EVs and plug-in hybrids.

The Bentley design team collaborated with Dezer on the exterior and interior of the building, translating Bentley’s luxury design to the residential experience. The design of the Bentley Residences offers unique ocean and bayside views, thanks to the building’s cylindrical form and floor-to-ceiling windows. The tower is designed to inspire new ways to embrace space and connect to the stunning surrounding environment.

Hamilton Scotts condominium in Singapore, opened in 2012, also has car elevators which takes owners’ cars up to their ‘Sky Garage’ in the apartment.

Aston Martin can design an exclusive garage for you too


The Maserati GranTurismo Returns

After months of teasing, the Maserati GranTurismo has made its global debut. This latest generation starts a new chapter in a story that began 75 years ago with the Maserati A6 1500.

The original Gran Turismo of 1947 at the Geneva Motor Show was the first road-going Maserati, of which only 61 examples were produced. The car had technical features and original, cutting-edge technology making it a genuinely revolutionary car.

The new GranTurismo coupe upholds that tradition, combining the high performance typical of a sportscar with comfort suitable for long distances. It represents a benchmark, embodying the concept of “The Others Just Travel”.

Classic proportions
From an aesthetic point of view, the GranTurismo design represents an ideal balance between beauty and functionality, without ostentation. The purity of its forms and its refined design cues, as well as classic proportions of the brand’s cars have been maintained.

These elements include the long bonnet and the central body intersected by the four fenders. Conversely, the roof line drops dynamically to emphasise the curve of the pillar that features the iconic Trident logo.

Developed at the Maserati Innovation Lab and produced at the Mirafiori manufacturing hub in Turin, the GranTurismo is totally ‘Made In Italy’ and epitomises Italian luxury performance, something which has been typical of all Maserati models.

1947 A6 1500

2019 GranTurismo

First fully electric powertrain
While the GranTurismo still has an internal combustion engine, it has also been engineered with the future in mind. This means it also has a fully electric option, the first Maserati with a zero emissions powertrain in its history of 107 years.

The electric powertrain in the GranTurismo Folgore version (
Folgore
 is used to signify electric variants) uses technology derived from the Formula E all-electric single-seater racing series. Its 3 electric motors generating a total of 300 kW, draw power from an 82.5 kWh battery pack.

The specific set-up and innovative layout of the battery result in the containment of vehicle height to 1353 mm, without compromising sporty driving dynamics. The shape of the battery pack, known as ‘T-bone’, forms part of Maserati’s ‘zero compromise’ approach and avoids placing the battery modules under the seats. By moving them around the central tunnel, the important ‘H-point’ of the car can be considerably lowered.

Fully electric Folgore models to dominate Maserati’s range

For those who prefer the traditional Maserati engine character, there’s the V6 Nettuno 3-litre  engine which already powers the MC20. This is available in two states of tune – the Modena with 490 bhp, and the high-performance Trofeo with maximum power output of 550 bhp.

Tradition of innovation
In terms of technical architecture, the new model is the result of an innovative project that makes extensive use of lightweight materials such as aluminium and magnesium, together with high-performance steel. Such a multi-material approach required new manufacturing processes to be created, resulting in best-in-class weight levels.

This approach is paired with new Atlantis High electrical/electronic architecture, based on canFD messages sent at speeds of up to 2 milliseconds. The system also comes with advanced level 5 cyber-security and flash-over-the-air features. The fulcrum is the Vehicle Domain Control Module (VDCM) master controller, a 100% Maserati project consisting of the software that provides 360° control of all the most important car systems, for the best driving experience in all conditions.

A cabin for long journeys
Within the GranTurismo, the modern cabin also shows the innovation that has characterised Maseratis through the years. Present is the Maserati Intelligent Assistant Multimedia system which provides information as well as entertainment on a large display. The driver is kept fully informed of the vehicle’s functions on the digital instrument panel as well as a head-up display.

GranTurismo cars are intended for long journeys and to provide a superior sound experience, even the Folgore version has an immersive aural quality. The audio system installed is a Sonus faber 3D sound system designed and made by Italian craftsmen in sound

At launch, the GranTurismo is available in the PrimaSerie 75th Anniversary Launch Edition, a limited series featuring exclusive content and dedicated to its recent 75th anniversary. Customers can also personalise their cars for sportiness, luxury or comfort with the extensive range of options Maserati offers.

Fully electric Folgore models to dominate Maserati’s range by the end of the decade


Toyo Tires noair tyres now in 6th generation of development

Ever since the pneumatic tyre was invented by J.B. Dunlop in 1887 (although Robert Thomson had actually patented the concept in 1845), punctures leading to air leaking out have been the one thing that motorists have had to live with. While there are solid tyres as well, these are hard and uncomfortable and don’t grip well.

Thus the pneumatic tyre filled with air has been used for decades and various approaches have been taken to overcome the problem of punctures. Run-flat tyres are one of them, allowing the car to continue being driven for some distance instead of changing the wheel with the spare. In some cars, the spare tyre is not provided to save weight and space, and a repair kit is provided instead.

Researchers at tyre companies have also been working on ‘airless’ tyres – not solid tyres but having a radical new construction that can offer the comfort and grip of pneumatic tyres but has no air to leak when punctured. Over the past 15 years, a few tyremakers have been developing such tyres, with Michelin and Toyo Tires having reached a stage where commercialisation is possible very soon.

Toyo Tires has been working on airless tires since 2006 and in September 2017, the company was the first in the industry to present a non-pneumatic tyre that could be used on passenger cars and driven at high speeds. The tyre was known, quite appropriately, as ‘no air’.

Tyres for EVs and autonomous vehicles

Toyo Tires’ development of noair is to prepare for the coming era of electric vehicles (EVs) and autonomous motoring. When EVs become widespread, many owners will not visit petrol stations as frequently as they do now to buy fuel. Therefore, the long practice of checking and inflating tyres correctly may no longer apply. Thus a tyre which does not need such checks would be useful.

Using proprietary technology, the noair tyre is said to have lower rolling resistance compared to conventional tyres. Adoption of tread rubber developed through Nano Balance Technology also promotes fuel efficiency while improving braking performance on wet roads.

X-shaped spoke configuration

In order to have a tyre that can support itself without air, Toyo Tires engineers developed an X-shaped spoke configuration. These spokes, made of a special resin, are alternately crossed over the width of the tyre from inside to the outside and vice-versa to create the X-shaped configuration. An additional benefit of this configuration is durability.

Additionally, the number of spokes has been increased to 100 pitches which reduces the load on each spoke and achieves a quieter ride. The external diameter resin ring is reinforced with carbonfibre reinforced plastic (CFRP) which serves to reduce the load imposed on the spokes.

Now in 6th generation of development

The noair tyre has now reached its sixth generation of development where the spokes are now 10 times more durable than at the beginning. Durability has also increased by 40% and Toyo Tires states that the performance is now as good as conventional tyres. However, like other new technologies, the cost to make a noair tyre is still high and the company is working on bringing this cost down.

Meanwhile Michelin says that it will be able to offer its airless tyre called UPTIS (for Unique Puncture-proof Tyre System) by 2024. It is likely that the first car to run on airless tyres will be GM, which the tyremaker is now running a
real-world testing program
 with. The data collected by engineers during testing will enable them to perfect the prototype in preparation for its market launch.

Michelin’s UPTIS airless tyre undergoing tests.

Run-flat tyres – an example of technology transfer from motorsports


F1/Round 3: Preview and Starting Grid for 2022 Australian Grand Prix

Race starts at 3 pm in Australia/1 pm in Malaysia

The Australian Grand Prix of 2020 was the first Formula 1 event to be cancelled as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, and it was a sudden cancellation, literally at the ‘eleventh hour’. The state government has forced its cancellation as the pandemic worsened and it started the ball rolling for other organizers to also cancel.

The Australian round has traditionally been the opening round of the season for many years so for the 2021 calendar, it was again placed at the start. However, the strict entry conditions at the start of 2021 made it difficult and uncertain for teams, so the organizers asked for their round to be postponed towards the end of the year when, hopefully, conditions would ease. But they did not (and would not till this year) and so the event had to be cancelled altogether.

This year, the Australian Grand Prix can finally be run although it could not regain its season-opening position and was scheduled as Round 3 of the 2022 Formula 1 World Championship. The circuit at Albert Park in Melbourne has changed and the entire track has been resurfaced. Some of the turns have been widened and a chicane has also been removed. The latter change is intended to provide a good overtaking spot, something which gives spectators the excitement to watch.

According to Brembo, the brake suppliers for all teams, it is one of those tracks with a medium level of difficulty for brakes. Since it is usually used for daily traffic, the track is slippery on Friday but, session by session, the asphalt is increasingly rubberized, also improving braking performance. This also translates into greater pad and disc wear, as they reach extremely high temperatures due to the increase in grip.

With the long experience Brembo has accumulated in Formula 1 since 1975 when they supplied to Ferrari, they have a range of solutions for the calipers that contribute to the heat dissipation of the entire braking system. One of these solutions is the Brembo pads with ventilation holes, something that is anything but simple to achieve because of their small dimensions and the materials the pads are made of, starting with carbon. Thanks to these holes, air circulation is greater and this staves off the overheating of the pads and the calipers themselves.

In 2022, the technical regulations ban having these holes in the pads in order to limit the cost of the component, but the teams are already on the hunt for cooling features that will improve this aspect without breaking any rules, such as fins or other processes to at least increase the exchange surface.

The minimum cornering speeds and gears used by the Mercedes-AMG drivers at Albert Park.

For Pirelli, the tyre people, there are a few unknowns because of the new track surface and changes, so past data cannot be entirely referred to. “There is a completely new generation of cars and tyres that the drivers are still trying to learn about. All these factors mean that there will be a lot of work to do for teams and drivers in the free practice sessions. We decided to opt for the step in the compound nominations because we noticed that there was a relatively small performance gap between the C3 and C4 compounds during development testing, and we believe that Albert Park – with its new asphalt and layout – is a good place to try out this option,” said Mario Isola, Pirellis’ Motorsport Director.

“We had to deal with a lot of new things compared to the last time that we raced here. The track is completely different from what it used to be: it’s definitely faster and the new tarmac feels totally different in terms of grip as far as I can remember,” said Ferrari’s Carlos Sainz.

The first two rounds of the championship have seen Ferrari and Red Bull Racing outpacing the Mercedes-AMG team. It’s still early days and the reigning champions are trying hard to address issues with set-up but still some way to go to match the pace of the frontrunners.

The Albert Park circuit is one of those where Lewis Hamilton has not had a notable record of wins (only two) even though he started from pole position a record 8 times. It is Michael Schumacher who has had the most wins with 4 wins, followed by Sebastian Vettel who has won 3 times. The McLaren team has had the most victories in Australia with eleven to date, with Ferrari having two less.


Petronas Sponsors Jet Fuel On Air Asia Flights To Hanoi, Now Everybody Can Yell “Goal”! (Surprise At The End)

PETRONAS Dagangan Berhad (PDB)
 is collaborating with
AirAsia
 to bring Malaysian football fans to the second leg of
AFF Suzuki Cup
 F
inal
 against Vietnam this Saturday. As the official fuel partner for AirAsia, PDB is
sponsoring jet fuel
 for the discounted AirAsia flights for Harimau Malaya fans travelling to Hanoi, Vietnam to support our national football team. With this sponsorship, the cost is further reduced by
RM50
 per guest. AirAsia will refund the difference to all fans who purchased their seats earlier.

Speaking about the initiative, PDB’s
Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Dato’ Sri Syed Zainal Abidin
 said,
“The team had showcased a tremendous performance at the last match and PDB is proud to be part of this exciting, patriotic journey. This is one of the ways that we offer value-added services to Malaysians as the nation’s leading retailer. We are happy to be able to team up with AirAsia to realise the fans’ dreams of supporting Team Harimau Malaya in person and keep their spirits burning.”

He added,
“I would like to urge all Malaysians to take this opportunity support the team and be part of the excitement. We wish Team Harimau Malaya the very best, and do make Malaysia proud!”

Now here’s a bit of trivia from Petronas:
Today, our domestic retail arm, PETRONAS Dagangan Berhad (PDB), operates more than
1,000
 service stations nationwide. But
#DidYouKnow
, our first flagship service station was opened in
1981
 in Taman Tun Dr Ismail, Kuala Lumpur, where it still stands to this very day? (below)

(All images from the official
Air Asia
 &
PETRONAS

Facebook pages
)


Fuel Price Updates For March 31 – April 6, 2022


Vision Mercedes Simplex sculpture embodies heritage and future of luxury brand

For a brand with a history of over 130 years, the transition to a new era of design and technology has to be managed carefully. There is the legacy and the birth of the brand to keep in mind while at the same time, the future must be shown as well.

At Design Essentials 2019 in Nice, France, Mercedes-Benz Design is presenting the Vision Mercedes Simplex, a sculpture embodying the heritage and future of the luxury brand. “Only a brand that is as strong as Mercedes-Benz is capable of the physical symbiosis of history and future. The Vision Mercedes Simplex symbolises the transformation of the brand-specific luxury of Mercedes-Benz,” said Chief Design Officer Gorden Wagener.

The inspiration for the Vision Mercedes Simplex goes back to 1901, when the history of mobility changed radically. At Race Week in Nice, a car the world had never seen before appeared on the starting line: a high-performance car which Daimler-Motoren-Gesellschaft had developed at the suggestion of the visionary Emil Jellinek.

The designs which were the norm back then were still closely related to motorised carriages. The Mercedes 35 PS, named after Jellinek’s daughter Mercedes, appeared with a completely new vehicle architecture and dominated the competitions in Race Week, which took place on the famous racetrack from Nice to La Turbie, right at the heart of what is now the Mercedes-Benz International Design Centre Europe.

The design is acknowledged as the first modern car and it heralded in a new era. Nearly 120 years ago, the transformation, away from a high motorised carriage to a flat vehicle design with a light high-performance engine installed low down in the frame and a honeycomb radiator organically integrated into the front, was the pioneer of success and role model for all the cars that were to follow, whatever the brand. The vehicle layout presented for the first time over a century ago remains to this day the technical basis of all cars.

The Vision Mercedes Simplex recalls this historic event and carries the pioneering spirit and the styling characteristics of those days far into the 21st century. Its message? The passion for luxury and innovation is part of the Mercedes-Benz brand DNA. This brand DNA gives Mercedes-Benz the strength to set new standards in mobility over again, yesterday, today and tomorrow.

Two-seater with forward-looking digital luxury

The Vision Mercedes Simplex reinterprets the historic Simplex as a two-seater with freestanding wheels, an alternative drive, User Interface and a thrilling design. Its body with the dominant horizontal alignment sits as a monocoque amid the 4 large wheels, which form the outer points of the vehicle.

The resolutely vertical colour separation into a white front section and a black rear section follows the historic example. The transparent trims on the wheels reflect lightness and efficiency, as do the aerodynamic surface areas between the front wheels and the vehicle body. The entire sculpture lives from the interplay between clearly and powerfully drawn surfaces and precise technical details.

Radiator grille a symbol of digital transformation

The radiator blends a dominant frame in rose gold – reminiscent of the bronze radiator grille of the historic example – with an opening in the form of a large lens-shaped Black Panel/3D display. This is where the famous MERCEDES lettering is digitally superimposed, as are animations which provide information on the vehicle status. This detail, too, is a symbol of the transformation of the luxury brand Mercedes-Benz into the digital world.

The decentralised wheel location components unite aesthetics and engineering artistry in a unique way. The omission of a windscreen – as on the historic role model – reinforces the uncompromisingly sporty character and allows a seamless transition from the front-end flap to the instrument panel. The slim reversing lamps which are horizontally integrated into the rear section separate the upper section from the lower section of the exterior shell, which envelopes the occupants like a protective cocoon.

Perfect handcraftsmanship is also evident on the leather bag which rounds off the tail end of the vehicle body and – with its contemporary interpretation – is also themed around the historic vehicle.

Homage to history

The entire interior pay homage to the successful history of Mercedes-Benz and the DNA of the Simplex racing car – systematically reduced and nevertheless highly emotively appealing. A seamless transition between the exterior, interior and User Experience reflects the holistic approach of the Mercedes-Benz design philosophy. This is particularly evident in the flowing, flute-like transition between the bonnet and instrument panel with its reduced interface which works with projections. The seamless look continues into the footwell.

The fashion world is reflected in the interior with exclusive accessories like the high-quality openers for the stowage compartments. The bench seat is inspired by stylish furniture, the hand-made Chesterfield quilting denotes a contemporary interpretation of classically luxurious handcraftsmanship. The colour-and-trim concept, including the azure blue upholstery cover which transitions seamlessly into the footwell, is inspired by the colours of the Cote d’Azur.

UI/UX design: digital luxury

The UI/UX design demonstrates a Mercedes-Benz vision of digital luxury. The driver is only shown precisely the information they actually require in the specific driving situation. The heart of the instrument panel is a physical rose-gold-coloured instrument on which dynamic digital content is projected.

This combination of mechanical beauty and intelligent digital content is described by the Mercedes-Benz designers as ‘hyper analogue’. The right information is shown on the display at the right time, eg speed, navigation instructions or vehicle information. Other information is displayed on the instrument panel depending on the situation.

A star pattern fused with the material of the instrument panel creates a large surface onto which information can be projected for a certain amount of time. Thanks to the simple presentation and the size of the display the driver can take in relevant information and yet still concentrate fully on the road at all times.

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‘Reindeer Eight’ shows the expertise of Bentley Mulliner to meet any customer request

While most of Bentley’s customers would prefer not to be identified, there are some who allow the company to tell the world about the cars they have commissioned. From time to time, we are treated to some very personalised models prepared by the company’s bespoke and personal commissioning division, Mulliner. As it is Christmas time, Bentley can show off the ‘Reindeer Eight’, a unique and festive Flying Spur V8 commissioned by ‘a world famous customer’.

Every commission is important and this was in fact, one of Bentley Mulliner’s most important yet because of the customer’s own global and extensive list of expectant fans. It drew on its rich history and expertise of fine craftsmanship to meet the specific requirements of the customers.

One of 62 shades from Extended Range

The one-off ‘Reindeer Eight’ is finished to the exterior in deep red Cricket Bauble paint finish, a unique shade created for the customer based on Cricket Ball which is available as one of the 62 shades offered by the Extended Range.

Leading the car from the front, a gold three-dimensional printed reindeer can be found in lieu of the Flying B mascot, and to the sides the V8 badges have been replaced by a special ‘Reindeer Eight’ badge signifying the powertrain the customer is more familiar with.

Following the lead reindeer, the standard chrome bonnet strip has been re-trimmed in gold, and coordinating hand painted fine line details shimmer from the rear of the Bentley wing badges.

Maximum aerodynamic performance

To emphasise the speed and performance required to cover the significant distance planned by the owner, a gold styling specification has been included, comprising of a carbonfibre diffuser to the front and rear bumper, carbonfibre side sills and a bootlid spoiler – for maximum aerodynamic performance at cruising altitude.

The Mulliner Driving Specification with 22-inch golden wheels and diamond finish, representing the snow peaks crossed, completes the exterior theme.  Given the cold climate of the customer’s primary residence, All Season tyres have been fitted.

Personalised embroidery with 11,100 stitches

The interior of the ‘Reindeer Eight’ showcases Bentley’s expertise in creating a modern cabin of unrivalled luxury and innovation, capable of comfortable seating for four or five. The customer specified a monotone Cricket Bauble interior with gold personalised embroidery and hand cross-stitching, including his name stitched into the driver’s seat and that of his wife alongside.

Festive gold hand cross-stitch highlights the attention to detail and skill of those working at the Bentley factory.  It takes 18 hours for a craftsperson to complete the 11,100 hand-sewn stitches throughout the cabin, and consumes 115 metres of special thread (equal to the height of Big Ben).

The seats of the ‘Reindeer Eight’ feature a twin-flute design and increased functionality, including heating, ventilation, multi-mode massage, adjustable bolsters and top tilt which should keep the customer alert yet relaxed over the extensive mileage that he will be covering. With the Mulliner Driving Specification chosen by the customer, the new three-dimensional leather combines with traditional stitching and embroidery work.

Sweeping horizontal veneer flows across the dashboard and into the doors, emphasising the spacious width of the cabin. At Mulliner’s suggestion, the Grand Black veneer displays a North Pole winter night scene with inlays to fascias and door waistrails to depict the end of the night’s journey.

The industry-first Bentley Rotating Display features in the ‘Reindeer Eight’. When the engine start button is pressed, and after a welcome sound of sleigh bells jingling, the veneer section in the middle of the dashboard rotates to reveal a 12.3-inch touchscreen, displaying multiple menus. A Naughty and Nice list integrated in the navigation system allows the customer to quickly know whether his fans have been bad or good.

The second side of the display reveals three elegant analogue dials showing outside temperature, a compass (vital for the customer to find home at the end of the long work night) and a chronometer. Finally, the third side offers the seamless Grand Black veneer fascia, continuing around the cabin, representing the North Pole winter night scene.

“What fun it is to ride in a 542 horsepower sleigh. Plus, there’s space in the back for all my subordinate Clauses.  I’m looking forward to putting 66 million kilometres on the clock before the end of the year,” said the bearded customer.

Bentley Motors offers customers a multitude of customisable features, making their car truly and uniquely theirs from the inside out. The Continental GT V8 is no exception and where colours are concerned, there’s a very broad spectrum of choices for them to express themselves and show off their personalities. To further enhance the exterior, owners can also opt for the Blackline Specification which replaces the exterior body brightware with black-painted trim and other items. Customers can discuss with their dealer, Bentley Kuala Lumpur in the case of Malaysia, on the wide range of options available to ensure they get exactly what they desire.

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Final round of Vios Challenge one-make race to be ‘closed event’ at Sepang

The fourth and final round of the Toyota GAZOO Racing Festival (TGR Festival) and the Vios Challenge one-make race will be held at the Sepang International Circuit on April 18 and 19, 2020. However, the event will not be open to the public due to the ongoing COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic.

In a statement just release, UMW Toyota Motor (UMWT) said it will be a ‘closed-door’ race. “UMW Toyota Motor undertakes accountability for the welfare of Malaysians at large, and also the well-being of our crew members, racers and race teams,” the statement explained.

The final round of the previous season was held for the first time at the Sepang International Circuit,

Minimal number of participants during races

Only essential crew members, racers and race teams will be invited for the completion of the third season which began last August. On event days, the organisers will be conducting health screenings for racers, race team members and crew prior to entering the race premises.

“We trust that our fans appreciate the current situation. All the races will still be broadcast live on Toyota’s Facebook and Youtube accounts and we invite everyone to cheer on their favourite racers and celebrities by tuning in to the live shows’, said UMWT’s Chief Motorsports Officer, Akio Takeyama, who is also one of the participants.

Information and updates about the TGR Festival are available at
toyota.com.my/tgrmalaysia/
 .

Related:
2020 Liqui Moly US Legend Cars Championship postponed due to COVID-19.

Motorsport events have large crowds of spectators and at this time, health authorities are strongly urging that ‘social distancing’ be adopted, meaning that people should be at least a metre from each other, to reduce the risk of infection.

Motorsports organisers urged to postpone events

Meanwhile, the Motorsports Association of Malaysia (MAM) has also issued a statement urging all organisers to postpone their events until the situation subsides and improves. “This decision is made based on the directives from the Ministry of Health (MoH), Sports Commission, and in consultation with the MAM Medical Commission.

The statement adds that should an organizer choose to still go ahead with its event, the MAM ‘highly recommends that it be held with minimal personnel and spectators, as in a closed-event format’. It calls on the organisers to act responsibly to reduce the risk of infection and to follow the guidelines by the MoH and W.H.O. for participants at the event.

Related:
Australian F1 Grand Prix Cancelled!


Guy Martin sets new record for fastest tractor – 247km/h!

Ever wondered how fast a tractor can go? No? Neither have we but the folks from Williams Advanced Engineering wanted to find out and with the help of the very popular Isle of Man TT racer / TV presenter, Guy Martin, they actually found out earlier this week.

The JCB Fastrac World Record project aimed in building the ‘World’s Fastest Tractor’ and who better to help than the guys who basically work with some of the fastest machines in motorsports history. With vast experience in Formula 1, Williams Advanced Engineering greatly assisted in the project, specifically on enhancing the tractor’s aerodynamics.

The brief was simple, but the execution was a challenge as they had to maximise the aerodynamic performance of the JCB Fastrac tractor, without compromising the integral shape of the vehicle. What they achieved was adding an ‘aero’ bumper, flat underfloor, reduced front overhang, and modified rear fairings.

Over 65 CFD simulations were carried and they’ve managed to reduce the tractor’s overall drag by 25%. The next job was for Guy Martin to take it out and blast it down the straights a few times. He managed to clock a maximum speed of 247.5km/h and an average speed of 217.6km/h.

The high-speed runs successfully secured the Guinness record for the World’s Fastest Tractor where it was featured on a UK’s documentary earlier this week called “The World’s Fastest Tractor”.

The 135 mph tractor! ?
@JCBmachines
 and driver
@guymartinracing
 pushed the limits in this modified monster
https://t.co/gGP5Gb9vip

— GuinnessWorldRecords (@GWR)
20 November 2019

According to Ian Turner, Head of Aerodynamics at Williams Advanced Engineering, “This has been a challenging and fascinating project, one that really showcases the effect that aerodynamic optimisation can have on speed and the versatility of CFD applications. In this instance, we’ve been able to bring learnings from race car design to an agricultural vehicle and in doing so, have been able to realise significant aerodynamic improvements. We are proud to have played an integral role in the project and would like to offer our huge congratulations to the team at JCB and partner companies for breaking the world speed record for a tractor.”


Experimental Polestar 2 with higher output shown at Goodwood Festival of Speed

Polestar has revealed an experimental version of the Polestar 2 at the Goodwood Festival of Speed in England this weekend, where it was raced up the hillclimb at the venue. While the standard Polestar 2 – which uses a fully electric powertrain – has an output of 300 kW (408 hp), the experimental model generates up to 350 kW (476 hp).

The project was proposed by the company’s CEO, Thomas Ingenlath, who wanted to push the boundaries of the performance fastback’s design and performance potential. “I challenged the design and engineering teams to play with Polestar 2 and come up with something that makes a strong statement for Goodwood. We want to flex our muscles and explore opportunities,” he said.

“For a few months, I have enjoyed driving another experimental Polestar 2, nicknamed ‘Beast’, around our Gothenburg campus, which inspired the team to come up with this version for Goodwood,” he revealed.

Besides the higher output from its two electric motors, the car has been given a stronger stance, with a wider track (+10 mm on each side) and 30 mm lower ride height. Widened wheel arches have been fitted, necessary to house the 9×21-inch wheels and 6-piston Akebono front brakes from the Polestar 1. The 275/30R21 Pirelli PZero Rosso performance tyres are also carried over from the Polestar 1.

The springs have been stiffened by 80% at the front and 40% at the rear compared to the original performance units, and the adjustable Ohlins DFV dampers have been upgraded to Ohlins 3-way performance dampers which are approximately 30% stiffer than the road and track originals. To further increase rigidity, the carbonfibre front suspension strut bar from a Volvo S60 Polestar Engineered has been fitted, complemented by a custom-fabricated rear strut bar.

“This car is what happens when we are given freedom to go beyond our limits,” said Joakim Rydholm, Polestar’s chief chassis engineer. “We already have such great handling and performance characteristics in Polestar 2 but when Thomas asked me to make something special for Goodwood, I was really excited to up the stakes.”

In addition to the mechanical upgrades, the car features updated front and rear bumpers. The car is finished in Snow Matte with a Magnesium Matte racing stripe, colour-coded front grid and glossy black mirrors. Bumpers and side skirts feature an additional colour-coded design accent. The wheels feature dual tonality of glossy and matte black surfaces.

Standard Polestar 2.

“It’s always exciting to push a little bit further. This is one of the benefits of being a start-up like Polestar – we don’t have a mould to fit into so we can experiment with fun projects like this,” added Maximilian Missoni, Head of Design.

Polestar confirms Precept as production model


Hyundai Ioniq 5 N Debuts With 600hp And Drift Mode!

The Goodwood Festival of Speed is this year’s venue for the world debut of the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N. The high-performance electrified car is the first in N’s electrification strategy, but it won’t be the last. The Ioniq 5 is Hyundai’s “first step” in its electrification strategy, according to the automaker, with further EVs from the sub-brand to come.

Two electric motors are available in the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N. The model’s combined output of 600hp and 740Nm of torque may somewhat alter before production begins. With the N Grin Boost mode activated, the output rises to 641hp and 770Nm of torque for 10 seconds.

The all-wheel-drive engine can accelerate the N from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.5 seconds; with N Grin Boost, that time drops to 3.4. It has a top speed of 260 km/h.

The model with the largest battery capacity available from Hyundai is 84.0 kilowatt hours. With 800-volt technology, the battery can be charged extremely quickly—from zero to eighty percent in just 18 minutes.

Using Hyundai’s N Battery Pre-conditioning, drivers may maximise the battery’s performance. The driver can select either a Drag or Track mode thanks to this. To produce the maximum laps, the Track mode optimises the battery temperature.

Hyundai employs a variety of software tools to improve the driving experience on both public roads and the racecourse, including drag mode, which provides a brief burst of total power.

Even greater control over how much energy the car uses is provided via the N Race function, which has two more settings. The on-track range is increased in endurance mode by restricting the vehicle’s peak power output.

The alternative, known as sprint mode, prioritises maximum power output. Fast starts are made possible by N Launch Control, which has settings for three distinct traction levels.

On the loniq 5 N, the front 400 mm discs, which are grabbed by 4-piston callipers, are responsible for braking, and the rear 360 mm discs, which are grabbed by single-piston callipers. The tyres are Pirelli P-Zero in size 275/35 and they sit on 21-inch forged aluminium wheels.

The loniq 5 N is built on the same E-GMP, or Electrified-Global Modular Platform, as the regular loniq 5, which is essentially an electric skateboard platform. The Hyundai Ioniq 6 and
Kia EV6
 both utilise the same platform.

Hyundai has improved the steering responsiveness with a better steering ratio and feedback for the N model. The N Drift Optimizer aids in preserving the drift angle. Additionally, Hyundai adds an e-LSD (electronic limited slip differential) for the rear axle, together with more wheel sensors and improved dampers, to enhance cornering performance and control.

The N e-shift and N Active Sound Plus systems from Hyundai further improve the driving experience. The Ioniq 5 N now has the same driving experience as the company’s eight-speed dual-clutch gearbox thanks to N e-shift. By regulating the motor’s torque output, it mimics the jolt experienced between gearshifts.

N Active Sound+ offers three different sound themes to complement N e-shift. Hyundai N’s 2.0-litre turbocharged engine’s noise is simulated at ignition. The RN22e serves as inspiration for Evolution, while the twin-engine fighter jet serves as the basis for the Supersonic sound theme’s fluctuating volume while cornering. The driver will be able to understand what the EV is doing thanks to the simulated sounds and shifts.

Hyundai fitted its newly designed N steering wheel, which for the first time bore the emblem of the performance brand. Drive Mode Select, N Grin Boost, and two N Custom buttons make up its four buttons. Drivers can designate their preferred customised drive modes to each button using the two custom triggers. Behind the steering wheel are the paddles for the e-shift and N Pedal operations.

On the strengthened centre console, the business included a sliding armrest as well as a knee pad and shin support. Additionally, Hyundai reduced the position of the bolstered seats by around 0.79 inches. These seats are available with a pixel pattern in either a cloth-and-leather or an eco-Alcantara-and-leather combination.

There will be ten colours for the Ioniq 5 N. Two of them are exclusive to the model: N Performance Blue Matte and N Performance Blue. The remaining hues are Abyss Black Pearl, Cyber Grey Metallic, Ecotronic Grey Matte, Atlas White, Atlas White Matte, Gravity Gold Matte, and Soultronic Orange Pearl. Only black with Performance Blue accents are offered for the interior.

Although the firm remained mum on the launch date, it might be sometime next year. It promised to provide range details later, so we could find out its cost and the day it will go on sale.


F1 (Round 19) – 2019 United States Grand Prix Results and Highlights

Valtteri Bottas won the race and also had his name embedded in Hollywood’s Walk of Fame

Next race in Brazil on November 17


Top Gear exhibit opens in the UK

Chris Harris, one of the current Top Gear presenters, launched the World of Top Gear exhibit at Beaulieu. The exhibit showcases the more memorable vehicles that were featured on the famous automotive programme in its 40 year history.

Regarding the launch, Chris Harris said, “It’s very exciting, seeing all these incredible cars in one place. It’s a privilege to have a home for all of the weird Frankenstein creations that we have on the show.”

The display is open to the general public over there in the UK and is meant to reflect the recent changes to the BBC’s Top Gear. That said, the new look includes  homage to the past, with a heritage corridor timeline paying tribute to the show’s 40-year history.

It all began with Angela Rippon as the first presenter, but back then, it wasn’t the show we know today. In fact, it wasn’t till the early 2000s that Top Gear starting growing in popularity. And we all have Jeremy Clarkson, Richard Hammond and James May to thank for making the automotive show, a global phenomenon.

Visitors to the exhibit will get to see the Panda limousine, which Jeremy used to ferry a celebrity about in one of the trio’s famous challenges on the show. Then there’s the infamous Reliant Robin that was converted into a space shuttle, which the boys used to demonstrate to the world’s space agencies, that space travel isn’t that complicated. They had an impressive launch, but everything went south soon after.

Other notable mentions include  the Caravan Airship, red Lotus Excel Motorhome complete with its rocket-shaped roof-mounted sleeping compartment, Porsche 944 Turbo ambulance, indestructible Toyota Hilux and double-decker racing cars.

There’s also memorabilia from Top Gear on show throughout the display, including the Jaguar steering wheel from The India Special and door panels from the Hindustan Ambassador, which raced to victory over all other taxis in one of the most entertaining races that we’ve ever seen.

To complement the launch of the exhibit, there will be a demonstration by Harris to entertain the crowd and remind us all that the shenanigans that comes with the programme is alive and well even though Clarkson, Hammond and May have moved on to another show.